The VCE Vocational Major (VM) was introduced to all government schools in 2023, replacing the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL), and with thousands of students opting to undertake the programs since its inception.
The VM combines four core subjects: Work Related Skills, Personal Development Skills, VM Literacy/VCE English and VM Numeracy/ VCE Mathematics, combined with a vocational education and training (VET) course and three other VCE Unit 3 and 4 classes.
The VM is offered at almost all government schools, but isn’t required to be offered at private schools, so the Star Mail reached out to a number of local private schools to see which schools are offering the option to their students.
Mater Christi College in Belgrave adopted the VM in 2023 and Deputy Principal of Learning Tara Baker said it was to provide students with greater flexibility and choice in their learning.
“While we already had a successful vocational and applied learning program, it previously operated separately from our VCE offerings,” she said.
“By integrating the VCE VM pathway, we now offer a unified VCE certificate that allows students to select from a broader range of VCE, VCE VM, and VET subjects—all within a single certificate, this integration enhances students’s access to relevant vocational education and applied learning opportunities,”
“This approach has significantly benefited our students by allowing them to follow their individual pathways, it also provides an alternative for those not pursuing a traditional ATAR route, enabling them to engage in VCE subjects that genuinely interest them—without the pressure of achieving an ATAR score.”
Mater Christi has students enrolled in a range of VET subjects through the VCE VM and who are completing traineeships as part of their studies.
Mater Christi College’s VCE VM dux Emma Costello chose the VM pathway as it ‘offered a practical, hands-on approach to learning that aligned with my interests and career goals. It provided real-world experience and a clear pathway to further education and work, making it a great fit for my strengths.’
Mount Evelyn Christian School (MECS) also offer the VCE VM, collaborating with Ranges TEC in their Trades Training Centre as well as onsite at the MECS campus.
MECS Head of Secondary Emma Allison and VET and Careers Coordinator Amelia Koole said MECS is committed to providing alternate pathways as society continues to wake up to the fact that the ATAR is not everything and may not be the best way to represent sound understanding of subject matter or suitability for course entrance.
“It is important for us, as a Christian school, to provide choice in students’ senior years as students discover who they are and their gifts and abilities. We believe in preparing students well for their future as well as allowing them to do real work for real people through their learning
now,” they said.
“Offering a senior years program that immerses them in the skills relevant to future careers boosts students’ confidence, enhances their engagement in learning, and helps them transition into the workforce,”
“This choice for students is crucial at this late stage in their education, by this point, students must own their own learning, many parents will appreciate the struggle of trying to force their child to study when the desire or motivation isn’t there. Students who may have ended up withdrawing from school or experiencing school refusal issues, now find that their learning has purpose and relevancy for the workplace, or future TAFE studies, and they are therefore more motivated towards successful completion.”
According to the Victorian Department of Education, enrolments in the VCE Vocational Major grew by almost 20 per cent in 2024. The VCE VM was completed by 8,290 students last year, up from 6,454 in 2023, contributing to the growth in
Year 12 students successfully completing a senior secondary certificate from 91.7 per cent in 2021 to 97.5 per cent in 2024.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll said Victoria is the only state to record continued VET enrolment growth in schools for the last four consecutive years – and last year, for the first time, more than 30 per cent of Year 11 and 12 students in Victorian government schools chose vocational education.
“The VCE Vocational Major is the biggest reform to senior secondary schooling in a generation – ensuring that no matter what you want to be when you leave school, Victoria has a pathway for you to achieve it,” he said.
“Thanks to the Allan Labor Government’s investments, more and more students are choosing the Vocational Major, learning in-demand skills in health, construction, engineering and agriculture and looking at careers that help drive the future of Victoria.”
In 2023, the year the VCE VM was introduced,
a total of 22,313 Year 11 and 12 students were enrolled in the VCE VM. 15.530 students were from metropolitan schools, 3635 from schools in a regional centre, 3136 in rural areas and 12 interstate.
In 2024, this jumped up to 26,611 students; 18,304 metropolitan, 4656 from a regional centre, 3636 in rural areas and 15 interstate.
Not all the feedback is glowing however, and the Star Mail understands from conversations with a local government school that wished to remain anonymous that the VM has created timetabling pressures, with classes offered by VET providers impacting other classes offered in the same timeslots. The school has also expressed concern about the impact on resources for other VCE classes.
MECS also pointed to a VCE VM graduate from last year who said choosing the VCE VM was definitely one of the best decisions of their life.
“It allowed me to get my Year 12 pass whilst focusing on an area of passion (creative design) without the stress of exams,” she said.
“There was a lot going on in my home life at the time and the VCE VM helped me cope with that and balance my life better.”
While still in Year 11, this student led the set design team for the MECS school production, coordinating students and staff to design and create multiple sets to a very high standard. This student undertook the VETDSS Cert III in Visual Arts whilst in Year 12 at her local TAFE, and upon completion of her VCE VM, she was accepted into her first preference university course, currently completing a Diploma/Degree of Graphic and Digital Design at Collarts (Australian College of the Arts). She has also been appointed as the Digital Content Creator at her local church.
A spokesperson for Mount Lilydale Mercy College said the VCAA (Victorian Curriculum And Assessment Authority) requires all secondary schools to offer VM as part of the ‘One VCE’ certification launched in 2023 and to be fully implemented by 2025.
“We welcomed this change as it offers broader choices for our VCE students and our VCAL program was highly successful in providing pathways for students so we saw the VM as the right progression for us as a College,” they said.
“We cater to a diverse range of students who are preparing for a wide range of career pathways. it is important that we provide a variety of subject offerings that meet our students’ interests, along with their academic, pastoral and spiritual needs,”
“The rise in VM class sizes is one measure of success, the level of enquiry from parents (current and prospective) is another encouraging indicator, as they can see how this pathway has resulted in actual destination outcomes for their child, this is supported by MLMC VCE Destinations data. We have developed strong relationships with employers and they are keen to take on MLMC students who have managed their learning and wellbeing needs through the VM program.”
Rental crisis hits vulnerable people across outer east
By Tanya Steele
Affordability figures for new rentals released by Anglicare Victoria on 30 April have shown that renters are the real victims of Australia’s housing crisis.
Drastic availability drops on rental housing between 2021 and 2025 have revealed a stressful lack of options for those on low-level wages in Maroondah, Knox and Casey.
Melbourne is moving towards becoming Australia’s most populated city within the next ten years, and if demand for housing continues to outstrip supply, rent rises will see the vulnerable community members suffer for it.
CEO of Anglicare Victoria, Paul McDonald said Anglicare have heard a lot in this election campaign about how both major parties want to enable people to realise the ‘Australian dream’ of owning your home, but there is also an Australian dream that supersedes this, which is actually having a home to live in.
“Neither major party is doing enough for those who are struggling to find somewhere affordable to rent that doesn’t put them immediately into housing stress,” he said.
An annual survey of available rental properties, Anglicare Victoria’s 2025 Rental Affordability Snapshot (RAS) measures housing rental affordability for people receiving minimum wage or relying on income support payments.
Competing for properties across a tight rental market in Casey, there has been a five-year decline in affordability shown in the data.
Rental rates have dropped significantly, from 64.7 per cent of properties for those on mini-
mum wage in 2021, to now 22 per cent in 2025.
Those on income support have also had a steady decline from 0.9 per cent in 2021 (Four properties) to 0.2 per cent (one property) in 2025.
“For people getting by on support payments, the 2025 Rental Affordability Snapshot shows that private rentals are almost impossible to secure – after decades of under-investment, Victoria has the lowest proportion of social housing in the country,” said Mr McDonald.
“Over 65,000 Victorians are currently on the public housing waiting list,” he said.
In Maroondah and Knox, drops were even greater, with changes from over 30 per cent of rental properties available to those earning minimum wage coming down to 6.5 per cent in Maroondah and 3.4 per cent in Knox.
Mr McDonald also said that the number of young people under the age of 25 on the wait list in Victoria is growing, as is the number of those waiting for housing who are fleeing family violence.
According to this year’s RAS, no available rentals in the state were affordable for singles
on Youth Allowance or JobSeeker.
“Young people leaving state care are at high risk of homelessness, and we need governments to allocate a proportion of public housing exclusively for this group of young people,” he said.
The RAS also found just one property was affordable for a single parent with a child over 14 who relies on Centrelink as their sole source of income.
“The rental affordability situation is so dire, some parents trying to escape violence with their kids have no choice but to head back into the lion’s den. It’s that or homelessness,” said Mr McDonald.
“The real implications of this data we see walking through our doors every day. That’s families and individuals on the brink of homelessness, who can’t afford a roof over their heads as well as food, medication, transport, and all the other costs that keep rising,” he said.
“The fact is, we need at least 60,000 new social housing properties over the next decade to meet demand. Right now, we are seriously lagging, and every day more people are being left behind.”
Mater Christi College’s VCE Vocational Major Dux Emma Costello said the stream was a ‘great fit’ for her strengths. (Supplied)
Housing affordability was named as a major issue facing urban residents leading up to the federal election. (Stewart Chambers: 321951)
Court says no to media ban
By Tanya Steele
Following a failed attempt to prevent media reporting on his case, a man who allegedly beat a dog to death in Kilsyth for over 10 minutes go to trial in what was described as a ‘repugnant crime’ by the judge.
Escorted by a large group of police security on Friday 2 May, accused animal abuser Mark Martinaj, who has allegedly been doxed online and has fears for his safety, appeared before the Ringwood Magistrates’ Court in person after failing to attend a few days earlier.
Making a bid for a suppression order, Martinaj’s lawyer, Scott Thomas, brought several allegations to light, asking the court to suppress further details of the case, effectively attempting to stifle the ability of the media to report on it.
Allegedly over a period of months, Martinaj has had two of his motor vehicles vandalised and his front fence at his place of residence both graffitied and set on fire.
Mr Thomas brought CCTV footage and concerns for his client’s safety to the judge’s attention and shared screenshots of death threats and the address and personal details of Martinaj from social media with references to upcoming court events read aloud.
Many of the alleged comments were derogatory and abusive, and said things like ‘better take him through the back door because he won’t make it through the front’ and ‘they should beat him with a metal pole’ and multiple threatening references were made.
With a full courtroom and hundreds of people attending online, family, animal activists and public attendees dressed in white for support of the pet’s family, Magistrate Jennifer Tregent said she accepted it’s an ‘emotive’ issue but it is ‘not up to them’ (the public) to take matters into their own hands.
The prosecution that ‘respectfully opposed’ the suppression order application, argued what
IN BRIEF
Teens charged
Casey Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged four teenagers, including two from the Yarra Ranges, following an alleged affray in Endeavour Hills on Wednesday 30 April.
It is understood five teenage girls attended a shopping centre on Heatherton Road just before 4pm.
Police will allege the group attended five stores in the shopping centre, stealing a number of items from each.
When a passerby attempted to intervene outside the third store, he was struck with a glass bottle.
The 55-year-old Drouin man was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Four teens were arrested at the scene and were interviewed by detectives.
A 16-year-old girl from the Yarra Ranges area was charged with attempted robbery, affray, five counts of theft, recklessly causing injury, assault in company and committing an indictable of-
risk does publication create that doesn’t already exist?
Referring to the already well-circulated coverage by many news outlets, the prosecution pointed out that Martinaj had, in fact, arrived safely at court in person that day.
“We are here freely discussing the matter today,” he said.
After a three-hour-long recess, Magistrate Tregent rejected the application and said that while she accepted Martinaj’s safety is compromised, a suppression order would be a ‘step too far’.
She also warned those viewing online against ‘derogatory behaviour’.
Witnesses were then asked to leave the court as a recount of the events leading to Martinaj’s charges was read aloud.
What followed was quite shocking, as the alleged events leading to the death of a family’s pet and service animal were unfolded in detail.
Martinaj is accused of retrieving a metal pole and beating two dogs repeatedly in his yard - a Maltese shih tzu and golden retriever on 3 December.
He allegedly later released the golden retriever and was seen on CCTV placing something in his car and driving away, returning later on foot.
The trial is set to bring at least four and up to six witnesses against Martinaj and will revolve around footage from CCTV at both his and the dog owner’s residence.
Four charges were laid against him and he is set to appear in court on 31 July and 1 August.
A heavy police force escorted him from the courtroom as the crowd slowly dispersed.
Mr Marinaj leaving court escorted by police on Friday 2 May. (Tanya Steele)
A 15-year-old girl, also from the Yarra Ranges area, was charged with robbery, affray, five counts of theft, assault in company, possessing a controlled weapon and committing an indictable offence whilst on bail.
The pair were remanded in custody and bailed the following day to appear before a children’s court at a later date.
A 16-year-old girl from the Greater Dandenong area was charged with five counts of theft, affray, recklessly cause injury, assault in company and committing an indictable offence whilst on bail.
A 13-year-old girl, also from the Greater Dandenong area, was charged with five counts of theft and affray.
The pair were bailed to appear before a children’s court at a later date.
The investigation remains ongoing in relation to the fifth female.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, has
CCTV/dashcam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Commercial drug quantity seized Police seized a commercial quantity of methylamphetamine and an imitation firearm as part of a major drug investigation in Healesville.
The investigation commenced after police received intelligence regarding alleged drug trafficking in the Yarra Ranges area.
Detectives from the Croydon Divisional Response Unit, with assistance from the Dog Squad, Drone Unit, and uniform members from Healesville and Warburton, executed warrants at a Healesville property on Thursday 1 May.
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Daniel Sullivan said drug trafficking doesn’t just affect those using the substances, “it drives violence, crime and trauma”.
“Our team has been relentless over the past year. We’ve tracked offenders, followed the intelligence, and in turn have removed considerable
quantities of drugs from the streets.
“Our message is clear - if you’re dealing drugs, you can expect a knock at the door — and a trip to court.”
During the search, police seized approximately $7000 of methylamphetamine and $1000 of cannabis, an imitation firearm (revolver), various rounds of cartridge ammunition and prohibited fireworks and knives.
A 45-year-old Healesville man was arrested at the scene.
He was charged with trafficking a commercial quantity of methylamphetamine, trafficking cannabis, possessing drugs of dependence, possessing proceeds of crime, being a prohibited person in possession of an imitation firearm, possessing ammunition, possessing explosives, and possessing prohibited weapons.
Police are urging anyone with information about drug trafficking to come forward and call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at crimestoppers.com.au
Spoils shared in outer east
By Callum Ludwig
An eventful election day came to a quick conclusion with the Australian Labor Party set for a second successive term.
The seat of Casey remained on a knife’s edge until late in the night and a late shift even saw the seat still in doubt into Sunday. The ABC had declared the seat had been retained by incumbent MP Aaron Violi but a 12am update reversed this call in an electorate not even considered a ‘Key Seat’ prior to election day. However, Violi has retained the seat according to the AEC’s Tally Room, where all 65 polling places in Casey and 99.99 per cent of votes have had a two-candidate-preferred (TCP) vote count undertaken, beating out Labor’s Naomi Oakey 52.72 per cent to 47.28 per cent.
It was a nervous race for Violi, though after a remarkable shift saw Violi previously leading the TCP count 50.98 per cent to Labor candidate Naomi Oakley’s 49.02 per cent at 11.30pm on Saturday 3 May only for half an hour to be behind as counting finished on Saturday.
The ABC had called the seat for Violi with 50 per cent of the vote counted, when he held 50.6 per cent to Oakley’s 49.4 per cent, expecting him to increase his margin to 1.6 per cent. However, by midnight, Oakley was ahead of Violi by a mere 262 votes (50.2 per cent of the vote). At the time of print, The Greens Merran Blair had 10.9 per cent of the first preference vote and independent Claire Ferres-Miles is not far behind with 10.82 per cent. They are followed by One Nation’s Ambere Livori (4.98 per cent), Trumper of Patriots Phillip Courtis (3.19 per cent), Family First’s Dan Nebauer (2.92 per cent) and the Animal Justice Party’s Chloe Bond (1.99 per cent).
In the Outer East, the Labor landslide can be seen in an important gain and retain.
In Deakin, the Liberal’s Michael Sukkar, who was Shadow Minister for Housing among other roles and had held the seat since 2013, has lost to Labor’s Matt Gregg at his second attempt. With 99.85 per cent of ballots having had a TCP count, Gregg has 53.57 per cent of the TCP count to Sukkar’s 46.43 per cent. The ABC called the seat with 44.9 per cent of the vote counted and Gregg holding 56.4 per cent of the preference count. The 3.59 per cent swing to Labor proved fatal for the incumbent Liberal MP. The Greens candidate Amy Mills received 11.91 per cent of the first preference vote and independent Jess Ness gained 7.44 per cent of the vote at the first time of asking. One Nation’s Anne Cooke (2.45 per cent), Family First Richard Griffith-Jones (1.77 per cent), Trumpet of Patriots Milton Wilde (1.48 per cent) and Libertarian Will Vandermeer (1.36 per cent) round out the Deakin vote count.
Mary Doyle has held the seat of Aston which she gained at a by-election in 2023 in another strong Labor result despite expectations that Liberal candidate Manny Cicchiello could win it back. With 100 per cent of the Aston vote counted, Doyle lead the TCP count 53.15 per cent (5.76 per cent swing to) to Cicchiello’s 46.85 per cent. The Greens’ Reuben Steen garnered 11.37 per cent of the first preference vote and is followed by One Nation’s John De Wacht (3.25 per cent), Family
First’s Craig Manners (2.63 per cent), Independent Mark Grondman (2.25 per cent), Trumpet of Patriots Steve Desveaux (2.15 per cent), Independent Andrew Williams (1.82 per cent) and Libertarian David Fawcett (0.96 per cent).
The Liberals did have another win in the Outer East, with Jason Wood retaining La Trobe despite a strong challenge from Labor candidate and former Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Jeff Springfield. With 98.02 per cent of ballots counted, Wood had 52.64 per cent of the TCP count, holding on against Springfield’s 47.36 per cent despite a 5.79 per cent swing against him. The Greens’ Jamie Longmuir has 13 per cent of first preference votes, followed by One Natin’s Leo Panetta (7.39 per cent), Trumpet of Patriots Gregory Hardiman (4.35 per cent) and Family First’s Ron Malhotra (3.4 per cent).
Just after 9.30pm, Liberal Leader Peter Dutton conceded the defeat of his party and himself in his own seat of Dickson.
“We didn’t do well enough during this campaign, that much is obvious tonight and I accept full responsibility,” he said.
“I called the Prime Minister to congratulate him on his success tonight,”
“There are good members and candidates who have lost their seats and I am sorry for that.”
Returning Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said in his victory speech at around 10pm that in this time of global uncertainty Australians have chosen optimism and determination.
“Now, at election time, parties and candidates ask people to make a choice and inevitably, the campaign and the coverage is about our differences and our disagreements that is the nature of our democracy, and it is the role of the media who serve it,” he said.
“But now that the Australian people have made their clear choice let us all reflect on what we have in common,”
“Because no matter who you voted for, no matter where you live, no matter how you worship or who you love, whether you belong to a culture that is known and cared for this great continent for 65,000 years, or you have chosen our nation as your home and enriched our society with your contribution, we are all Australians.
‘I’m a bit of a fighter’: Oakley vows to fight next election
By Oliver Winn
Though it was a Labor landslide across the rest of Victoria, Naomi Oakley fell short of clinching the Casey seat from Liberal incumbent Aaron Violi.
A late shift in the polls briefly put the Labor candidate ahead of Mr Violi by a slim margin, but as the count continued it became apparent Mr Violi escaped the damage dealt by Labor on a national level.
Ms Oakley said she was disappointed by the result but would continue her work with the community for the next election in 2028.
“It’s disappointing but now it’s time to reset. Labor values are still really important to me and I’ll continue to advocate with community groups and ensure that the promises that the sitting member has said will be put in place.”
Her priorities would include organising forums on community safety and family violence, helping displaced peoples, aging residents and increasing awareness surrounding police veterans mental health.
“All these things that are really important. I
Oakley said she
work with the community for the next election in 2028. (Supplied)
think people still want people to advocate for those things.”
“I’m a bit of a fighter. So I’ll just continue to
sort of work with the groups.”
Ms Oakley ran for the seat of Menzies in the 2022 election and despite losing to Liberal
member Keith Wolahan, she managed to close the voting margin by seven per cent.
She said she had “chipped away” at the Casey electorate for this election and hoped to capitalise on that next election.
“I know there’s some gaps that we could fill and really it’s about continuing to advocate for community groups and I’m letting them know that we’re still here,” she said.
Greens candidate for Casey Merran Blair said this year’s campaign was the strongest ever for the Greens.
“I am so proud of what our team achieved this election.”
“We brought together a great team of passionate and dedicated volunteers. Over the country, the Greens primary vote was up and this is something we are really proud of. We are a resilient bunch and we will keep working because we believe politics should be about genuinely helping people and having ambition for a better future,” Ms Blair said.
Ms Oakley said she’d also focus on recognising police veterans
Ms
would continue her
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese takes to the stage as his supporters celebrate Labor’s Federal election win. (AAP Image/Dean Lewins)
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton and his family Wife Kirilly, sons Tom Harry and daughter Bec at the Federal Liberal Party’s reception. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas)
Voting at Kilsyth PS
By Callum Ludwig
Election day arrived for another year with polling booths opening at 8am and a day full of democracy on Saturday 3 May.
Kilsyth Primary School had been turned into a battleground, littered with signs from representatives of both the Casey and Deakin electorates, with voters from both allowed to join the local line at this polling booth.
Most voters were tight-lipped about what issues and initiatives were driving their vote but a few gave their thoughts:
Viv from the Casey electorate said she was most focused on green energy initiatives, especially any that help with the cost of living and was also disappointed that parties hadn’t campaigned strongly on taking action to prevent violence against women, feeling that was ‘a missed opportunity’.
One anonymous voter said she didn’t know who she wanted to vote for, but did like the Liberal Party’s policy to allow first home buyers to claim a tax deduction for the interest payments on the first $650,000 for the first five years of their mortgage, as well as access their super to help put down a deposit on a home. Despite this, she still felt all politicians are ‘much for muchness’.
Another anonymous voter said he wanted to see politicians take a pay cut and that he felt that was ‘one thing they all vote against’.
As with every election day, the most important people on election day weren’t those on the ballot paper but the hardworking volunteers on the barbecue dishing out democracy sausages. Melanie, Amy and Adam were hard at work in the morning ensuring local voters didn’t leave hungry.
The fence line had been taken over by signs spruiking Deakin independent candidate Jess Ness and Liberal candidate Michael Sukkar while Casey independent candidate Claire Ferres Miles and Labor candidate Naomi Oakley also featured.
Inside the school grounds, Casey Greens can-
didate Dr Merran Blair had a couple of signs while the faces Deakin Labor candidate Matt Gregg and One Nation Senate candidate Wayne Pickering could also be found. Family First, the Greens, the Labor party and the Liberal Party also had signs displaying general support for their party.
In terms of personnel, there were plenty of
coloured shirts of political volunteers. Volunteers for independent for Casey Claire Ferres Miles and for the Liberal Party were the most prevalent, with multiple teal and blue shirts handing out hand to vote cards. The Labor Party was represented by a pair of volunteers and there was a single volunteer holding down the fort for the Greens, Family First and One Nation.
Casting votes at Coldstream
By Dongyun Kwon
Coldstream Primary School was crowded with campaigners and voters for the day of selecting Australia’s future for the next three years.
A democracy sausage sizzle was also located on site to add the election vibe.
The voters at Coldstream Primary School pointed out the cost of living as one of the major issues that influenced their vote for this election.
(L-R) Shaylah, Cooper and Mia helping out with running the Democracy Sausage. (Dongyun Kwon: 475813)
L-R: Melanie, Amy and Adam on democracy sausage duty at Kilsyth Primary School. (Callum Ludwig: 475811)
Vet turns 100
By Mikayla van Loon
In 100 years of life, Eddie Ham has travelled from country Victoria to fighting from the air in World War II and back again, fallen in love twice and had four beautiful children.
Born 6 May 1925, Mr Ham celebrated his 100th birthday on Tuesday.
Growing up on a farm about 10 miles west of Rochester and attending high school in Echuca, Mr Ham remembers as far back as 1928 when his father bought his first car, something Mr Ham would learn to drive at just 13-years-old.
By the time he was 18, Mr Ham had joined the Air Training Corp as the war in Europe intensified and it was gaining momentum closer to home shores.
Starting at the Royal Australia Air Force training camp in Somers, he then headed to Mount Gambier to carry out the remainder of his training.
Mr Ham finished 13th out 33 in his cohort, graduating from Leading Aircraftman to Officer in 1944.
“I was the youngest one. At the end of 19 September 1944, it was about a year and three months, I had the equivalent of three university degrees, in navigation, meteorology, photography and mathematics,” Mr Ham said.
Carrying out the remainder of his training in Newcastle, Mr Ham became a navigator in 22 Squadron alongside his pilot Dick Scott.
“He was about five months older than me, he was born in January of 1925,” Mr Ham said.
The pair flew in a Beaufighter, while others flew in Bostons, but “soon, we were in the action against the Japanese”.
Mr Ham was based at Morotai in what was then the Dutch East Indies and the years of the war were spent fighting and escaping death, navigating unknown territories and waters.
“We were raiding a lot of Japanese forts still holding out in various parts of the Dutch East Indies,” he said.
Eventually, Mr Ham said the Squadron moved from Morotai to a place called Sanga Sanga in the Philippines just off the north west corner of Borneo ready to join the allied invasion.
But the Japanese were crafty in their attack and sought to dismantle the strength of the airforce by tampering with the aircraft.
“Would you believe they didn’t have proper guards on the airfield, and the Japanese actually were able somehow to get inside the airfield and tamper with the aircraft.
“And that happened two or three times, and we were taking off over the sea or land and what would happen, was you’d be taking off and you might get off, or the engine might fail.
“If you’d taken off over land, you were dead because if you crashed on land, you had a full tank of fuel, you had bombs and ammunition onboard, you had no hope of stopping anything.”
On 10 June, the date of the allied invasion, Mr Ham and his pilot, Mr Scott, were preparing for flight.
“We were to take off over the sea, one of the aircraft already crashed taking off the other way but luckily, the engine failed before they got off the ground. It was on fire but the pilot and the navigator got out before it blew up,” he said.
“We got into the air and I think my pilot knew that he was going to be in trouble. He said to me a
few times, ‘let’s get it over with’.
“The engine failed. There was a reef around the island and it wasn’t so deep there. We crashed inside the reef. It was a violent crash. I couldn’t see anything on the ground until I woke up after I got knocked out.”
Mr Ham suffered from the fifth and sixth cervical vertebrae being crushed from the impact and a few abrasions on his arms.
Sadly, Mr Scott didn’t survive. He died at the age of 20.
Mr Scott diverted the aircraft away from the nearby island, avoiding crashing into people and residences there, hitting the water at an estimated 140 knots.
“I was picked up by an American PT boat and taken to the hospital,” Mr Ham said.
“There was no plane and no pilot so I transferred to 34 Squadron, which exists today and as far as I know, I’m the only survivor of both squadrons now.”
Noting his service as “necessary” Mr Ham said there were so many times when he “shouldn’t have come back” and “at least twice I should have died”.
Mr Ham served as part of 34 Squadron until the end of the war, helping transport cargo, men and supplies across the pacific.
He was tasked at the end of the war by General Gallagher to bring prisoners of war being held in Singapore back to Australia.
It was during this time Mr Ham met Lord Louis Mountbatten and Lady Edwina Mountbatten who were organising the repatriation of the Royal Air Force.
When it came time to come back home, Mr Ham had to navigate the mountains of New Guinea, a treacherous task, flying at height capacity for the aircraft.
“If you didn’t have a big load on, you could fly high. Anyway, when we went across, I made sure we were flying as high as we could go, flying at 22,000 feet, with no oxygen, freezing cold.
“(One aircraft didn’t make it) and years later, they found this aircraft, the alpha metre was stopped at 17,388 feet. So the mountain that was supposed to be 15,000 feet or something like was at least 17,388 feet.”
Making it home in 1946, Mr Ham was discharged from the airforce and found a position at the National Australia Bank as a senior general clerk at local branches from Kew to Healesville and eventually ended up in head office.
He married Daphne in 1951 and went on to have four sons, Christopher, Darryl, Calvin and Lindsay who all built incredible careers for themselves, something Mr Ham speaks highly of.
Spending over 40 great years together, Mr Ham’s first marriage came to an end in the 1990s but love was found again.
At the ages of 72 and 71, Mr Ham married Phyllis at the Church of England in the Dandenong Ranges. They joined the Dandenong Ranges RSL together.
The pair moved to Donwood Aged Care in Croydon in 2015 but sadly Phyllis died not long after the move.
Mr Ham remains actively engaged in politics and finance, writing research papers and noting down thoughts, keeping his mind strong.
The 100-year-old celebrated his birthday with friends, family and members of the RSL.
World War II veteran Eddie Ham served in the Royal Australian Air Force as a navigator, pictured here with the Beaufighter he and pilot Dick Scott flew in (Mikayla van Loon: 476072)
Mr Ham joined the war effort at age of just 18. (476072)
Pilates for cause a success
By Dongyun Kwon
A special pilates session for a good cause turned out to be a great success.
Yarra Valley-based pilates instructor Vicky Kamakaris and her client Penny Napoleone cohosted Pilates 4 Parkinsons to raise funds for Shake It Up, a not-for-profit foundation dedicated to researching Parkinson’s disease to slow, stop and cure the condition.
Both co-hosts lost a parent to Parkinson’s disease and felt a desperate need to raise awareness of the disease.
They decided to hold a pilates event which is one of the ideal activities for Parkinson’s sufferers to assist in slowing the progression of the disease.
Held at Punt Road Wines, Coldstream on Saturday 26 April, the fundraiser succeeded in attracting more than the target participation and funds; 120 participants and $6500.
Ms Napoleone said two co-hosts were thrilled with the outcome.
“It was a huge success. We raised over $6000 (with having) 120 participants. The weather was fine, and we had lots of fun,” she said.
“Participants arrived at 10.30am, and we ran a 45-minute pilates class outside at the winery. And straight after that, we went out to the back garden, and everyone had some food and a glass of champagne and chitchat with friends.
“We didn’t expect it to become as big as what it was.”
Ms Kamakaris and Ms Napoleone decided to run the event again next year after getting lots of positive feedback from the participants.
Ms Napoleone said it was important to raise awareness about Parkinson’s.
“We can’t believe that we raised over $6000 (through) ticket sales and donations from a lot of people, which was amazing,” she said.
Small acts make a big impact.
Putting recycling in the bin loose and not in plastic bags means more of it can be turned into new things.
Recycling in plastic bags cannot be sorted because the bags can damage equipment at sorting facilities and present a safety risk to staff. Visit www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/
“Thank you to Punt Road Wines, which is technically my family business, who supported us to host this event.
“We are also grateful for all the participants and those who couldn’t attend but donated money.”
Yarra Valley-based pilates instructor Vicky Kamakaris.Pilates is one of the ideal activities for Parkinson’s sufferers to assist in slowing the progression of the disease.
120 people participated in Pilates 4 Parkinsons. (Supplied)
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Managing earwax safely
Earwax, while often overlooked, plays a vital role in ear health by trapping dust and debris while protecting the ear canal. However, when excessive wax builds up and blocks the ear canal—a condition known as cerumen impaction or earwax occlusion—several health complications can arise if left unaddressed.
Many people don’t realise how significantly earwax build-up can impact their daily lives. The symptoms often develop gradually, making them easy to dismiss. The most immediate consequence of wax blockage is typically conductive hearing loss, where sounds become muffled or difficult to discern. This can be particularly problematic for elderly individuals or those already experiencing hearing challenges. Alongside hearing difficulties, many patients report uncomfortable sensations of fullness or pressure in the ear, sometimes escalating to significant pain.
Perhaps more concerning are the secondary effects that earwax occlusion can trigger. Tinnitus—characterised by phantom ringing, buzzing, or humming sounds—frequently accompanies blockages. Some patients even experience vertigo or dizziness when the blockage irritates the delicate inner ear structures responsible for balance.
Audiologists often see patients who’ve been living with these symptoms for months before seeking help. What many don’t realise is that blocked ears create the perfect environment for bacterial or fungal growth, significantly increasing infection risk.
Another overlooked consequence is the difficulty wax occlusion creates for healthcare professionals attempting to examine ear health or diagnose other conditions affecting the ear canal or eardrum.
While many are tempted to address the prob-
lem themselves, experts strongly caution against DIY removal methods. Cotton swabs, ear candles, and other home remedies often worsen the situation by pushing wax deeper into the canal or causing injury to sensitive ear structures.
Professional removal by qualified audiologists offers numerous advantages over self-treatment approaches. These specialists employ sterile techniques and specialised tools designed specifically for safe cerumen removal. Their training allows them to work with precision, effectively addressing even stubborn blockages without damaging the ear canal or eardrum.
During a professional removal session, audiologists are not just clearing wax. They’re also assessing overall ear health and can identify other potential issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.
For those experiencing symptoms of earwax build-up—hearing difficulties, ear discomfort, tinnitus, or dizziness—experts recommend consulting a qualified audiologist rather than attempting self-treatment.
Hearsmart Hearing Solutions offers comprehensive earwax removal services with state-ofthe-art equipment. Their team of certified audiologists provides safe, effective treatment while educating patients on proper ear care to prevent future occurrences.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Hearsmart Hearing Solutions.
Come see Hearsmart for your hearing concerns. (Supplied)
AUTUMN SPECIAL
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
The posture
numbers of patients with postural-related back and neck pain. As society continues to shift towards working-from-home, with longer screen time and less incidental movement in our day, it means posture is as important as ever.
The reality is, having a good posture – especially whilst sitting at a desk or a computer – is really hard. To put it straight, the human body is simply not designed to sit at a desk for eight hours a day. Yet, for so many of us we are doing just that. Not only are we working from home and online more than ever before, we’re still sitting on the couch watching tv, playing video games or even worse...crouched over our phones checking Facebook! No wonder I’m treating so many headaches, back aches and muscle tightness issues.
The best cure for poor posture is, quite simply, to get up and move around. Our bodies are designed to move and be active. Interestingly, there is a growing body of scientific research that suggests a slumped or slouched posture isn’t actually linked with pain any more than a “correct” posture. However, what is linked with pain is how long we’re in that posture for. We need to break up
long periods of sitting – so go for a walk, get into the garden, head to the gym. Even just changing your posture regularly can help to reduce the risk of back pain and headaches from sitting.
Now, this doesn’t mean we forget all that we’ve learned in the past about posture – a good work station set-up is still important. Obviously, we can’t avoid sitting altogether – so when we’re relaxing, studying or at work we need to ensure that our desk-set up is correct. That can include things like a lumbar cushion, quality chair and ensuring an appropriate height of computer screen. It might be helpful to get an expert like a physiotherapist to check out your desk set-up. Learning appropriate stretches to manage tight muscles is helpful as is strengthening your postural muscles through specific exercises.
So remember, it’s not so much what posture you’re in, it’s how long you’re in it for that’s most important. Get out there and keep moving!
Ben Croxford is a Physiotherapist and leads the team at Form & Practice Mt Evelyn, Olinda and Chirnside Park. His writings explore his favourite health topics, challenge common myths and aim to empower you to take control of your own health. Find out more at formandpractice. com.au
Seeing a physiotherapist can improve postural concerns. (Unsplash)
Having correct desk posture can prevent ailments like headaches, back aches and muscle tightness issues. (Unsplash)
A Happier, Healthier Future for Mum
Affordable Living at the Gateway to the Yarra Valley
You want the best for your mum—a place where she’ll stay active, connected, and truly happy. At Tudor Village, she’ll live longer, healthier, and a more fulfilled life in a vibrant community designed for independence and wellbeing. With an indoor pool, gym, bowling greens, and a calendar full of activities, she’ll stay engaged and socially connected—because an active lifestyle helps keep both body and mind strong. Better yet, she’ll enjoy the warmth of a friendly neighbourhood with real community spirit, where new friendships come easily and support is always close by. Help her make the move to a lifestyle she’ll love.
135 ST AMBROSE GROVE, LILYDALE
$550,000 - $610,000
49B SALISBURY BEND, LILYDALE
$630,000 - $693,000
Your Tranquil Oasis Awaits.Renovated and ready to move in!
Escape the hustle and bustle to this delightful 2-bedroom haven in a tranquil, leafy pocket of the village. Step inside and be greeted by an open-plan living area bathed in natural light thanks to the charming bay windows in both the lounge and master bedroom. Relax in your private courtyard under the shade of a pergola, perfect for morning coffee or al fresco dining. Convenience is key with gas heating and reverse-cycle air conditioning for year-round comfort, plus a single lock-up garage with internal access.
A stylishly renovated two-bedroom home, ideal for a single or couple. Enjoy open-plan living, a sparkling new kitchen with electric cooktop and ample storage, a modern bathroom with separate toilet, and timber floors throughout living areas. The main bedroom and lounge feature new carpet and bay windows. Stay comfortable year-round with a split system AC and heating unit. Includes a private rear courtyard and single garage with internal access. Bright, low-maintenance, and ready to move in.
TO DISCOVER TUDOR VILLAGE, CALL KATE ABDULOVSKI ON 0417 001 577 TO ARRANGE A VILLAGE TOUR. 520 Maroondah Hwy, Lilydale | www.tudorvillage.com.au
WINTER WARMING Evolution of wood heating
When Christian Bergmoser founded Euro Fireplaces in 2010, he brought a fresh vision to the wood heating industry: creating solutions that combine aesthetic appeal with environmental responsibility and efficient performance—a forward thinking approach that aligned perfectly with evolving energy standards.
Over the past fifteen years, Australia’s wood heater standards have tightened significantly, with emission requirements reducing from 4 grams per kilogram of wood burned in 2009 to the current 1.5 grams, with further reductions anticipated. Euro Fireplaces has consistently led this environmental evolution, with their inaugural Andorra model achieving remarkable 0.8 gram emissions—a performance still competitive today. Their latest models now achieve emissions below 0.4 grams, setting new industry benchmarks that exceed both current and future standards.
Beyond environmental credentials, Euro Fireplaces heaters deliver exceptional efficiency in heat output and wood consumption. Models like the Olbia and Uppsala can effectively heat a 280-square-meter home while consuming just 1.3 kilograms of firewood hourly—representing significantsavingsforhomeowners.Thisefficiency stems from an innovative heat bank system that stores and gradually releases warmth, keeping rooms comfortable long after visible flames have subsided.
Modern wood heating requires a corresponding shift in operation practices. Today’s advanced heaters perform best with smaller, more frequent loads of well-seasoned wood, producing cleaner burns and more effective heating. When correctly operated, these wood heaters offer a carbonneutral solution that aligns with broader sustainability goals, as wood burned properly produces similar emissions to natural forest decay.
As firewood prices climb across Australia,
Euro Fireplaces’s efficient technology addresses both economic and environmental concerns by maximising heat output while minimising consumption. This translates directly to household savings while reducing pressure on firewood resources.
The future of wood heating lies in this bal-
Smarter technology,
Smarter operation
This efficiency stems from an innovative heat bank system that stores and gradually releases warmth, similar to underfloor heating technology. The heat retention capabilities mean that rooms remain comfortably warm long after the visible flames have subsided, extending the effective heating period from each load of wood. These design principles represent a fundamental shift in how wood heat is utilised in modern homes.
Modern wood heating demands a corresponding shift in operation practices by users. The days of overfilling fireboxes and allowing wood to smoulder with heavy
smoke emissions are ending. Today's advanced wood heaters require more attentive management—smaller, more frequent loads of well-seasoned wood produce cleaner burns and more effective heating. This operational approach not only maximises efficiency but also significantly reduces particulate emissions.
When correctly operated, today's wood heaters offer a carbon-neutral heating solution that aligns with broader sustainability goals. Wood burned properly in these advanced units produces similar emissions to natural forest decay, completing a carbon cycle
rather than releasing long-sequestered carbon as occurs with fossil fuels. This principle of carbon neutrality positions modern wood heating as an environmentally sound option when sourced from sustainable forestry practices.
With firewood prices rising, Euro Fireplaces maximise heat while minimising wood use, offering an efficient, cost-effective and eco-friendly solution.
Scan QR code to view catalogue
ance of tradition and technology—combining the timeless appeal of wood fire with advanced efficiency and dramatically reduced environmental impact. When properly operated, modern wood heating systems not only save money but contribute positively to environmental sustainability.
As energy costs continue to rise and climate considerations become increasingly important, the sophisticated engineering behind Euro Fireplaces’ wood heating solutions offers a pathway for wood heat to remain a relevant and responsible option for Australian homes well into the future.
Freestanding model “Buller Pedestal”, which also comes in a
The Euro Difference
Experts in existing fireplace conversions
Traditional open fireplaces can be under 10% efficient, and fan-forced options waste wood and heat. Upgrade to a Euro Fireplaces insert for up to 80% efficiency and clean, low-emission heating.
Australian market leader in pellet heaters
Pellet heaters offer the cosy feel of wood heating with push-button ease—an efficient, renewable option that runs on wood pellets made from recycled sawdust.
High efficiency, low emissions
Euro Fireplaces heaters deliver exceptional efficiency in terms of wood consumption and heat output.
Botany
box and bench base.
Come see Euro Fireplaces for your modern wood heating solutions. (Supplied)
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 Also known as (1,1,1)
3 Sacrilegious (11)
9 Difficult to understand (7)
10 Captivate (7)
11 Somewhat (8)
12 Smear, often with oil (6)
14 Spawn, similar to caviar (3)
15 Without aim (11)
17 Restrictions (11)
19 For this, ad – (Lat) (3)
20 Cease (6)
21 Plastic unit containing audio or visual tape (8)
24 High-protein pulse (7)
25 Middle Eastern national (7)
26 Impediment (11)
27 Televisions (abbr) (3)
1 Inherited from one’s family (9)
2 Whenever you like (7)
3 Stereotypically masculine (5)
4 Speed up (10)
5 Bars (4)
6 Designer of goods and structures (9)
7 Opening (7)
8 Separate metal from ore (5)
13 Crowning ceremony (10)
15 Metallic element (9)
16 People living together in communities (9)
18 Of the Freemasons (7)
19 Highest in temperature (7)
20 Rummage (5)
22 Wait on (5)
23 Operator (4)
SUSTAINABLE LIVING ON JUST UNDER1 ACRE
THE birds eye view above shows the gum leaf shaped roofline, this alone intimates that quite an extraordinary residence could be yours. Curved and sophisticated this ‘one of a kind’ home excites the senses and invites those who like to minimise their carbon footprint in a residence displaying artistic innovation and thoughtful inclusions.
The residence:
• 3 bedrooms, the private master suite with bathroom and WIR
• 2 further bedrooms serviced by a central bathroom.
• Central kitchen with quality appliances, dishwasher, oven, and induction cooktop Two separate living areas, one the ‘Great Room’ with 4.5m ceilings warmed by a Euro fireplace, also a TV room.
• There is a spacious laundry.
• Polished concrete Hydronic floor heating operated by Stiebel Elton heat pump with 6 thermostat-controlled floor sections.
• Double glazing, walls and roof insulated. Two split-systems
Connectivity:
The indoors and outdoors have a fluidity between the two spaces, moving from one to the other, retreating to a certain favourite place in the garden to rejuvenate the mind. Taking in the plants that have changed since yesterday, the sublime view that looks a little different in the todays light. So much to see and discover.
Outdoors:
3,546 sq metre allotment
The front yard shaded by magnificent oak.
• The rear yard a tapestry of ever-changing seasonal colours
• A covered patio
• Views that will take your breath away.
• Established fruit trees and vegetable produce.
Access via remote gates
Double remote garage
Studio/wellness/work/arts and crafts/ playroom: this building has double glazed
PrimeLocation.MainStreetFrontage.RearAccess. Thispropertyisofferedforsaleorlease.currentlycomprising,16m x5.5m= 88m2 (approx.)openspaceintotalwith oneoffice,rear kitchenetteandtoilet.Shared parking facilitiesoff FairbridgeLane.Youmayliketoinvestigate openingthatnewbusiness opportunityyou’vebeen thinkingof– the optionsareendless and subjecttocouncil approval.I’m sure thelocals wouldloveto supportyournewventure.Ifyou’vegotthe vision,we’vegotthe property!Theowner is alsoopentorentingthe property@$450 p/w
0493136937
HOME FOCUS
COMFORT, SPACE AND LIFESTYLE
SET on a fully fenced 4,063sqm (approx.) block, this spacious four-bedroom, twobathroom brick home delivers the ideal combination of modern family living and relaxed outdoor lifestyle in a peaceful Cockatoo setting.
A double carport leads to the front verandah and main entry, where you’re welcomed by a tiled foyer, soaring 9-foot ceilings, large windows, and brand-new carpet that flows throughout. At the front, a carpeted lounge and adjoining study area provide flexible space to work or unwind, while the master bedroom enjoys a garden outlook, double corner built-in robes, and a private ensuite complete with a skylight.
The open-plan kitchen, dining, and second living zone sits at the heart of the home, warmed by a woodfire and seamlessly connected to the outdoors. The kitchen is well-equipped with an integrated oven, gas stovetop, raised dishwasher, fridge recess, excellent storage, and generous bench space. Step outside to the expansive undercover entertaining area, where tree-lined views and winding garden paths create a private and tranquil escape.
Down the hall, three additional bedrooms — all with built-in robes — are serviced by a central family bathroom, separate toilet, and a large laundry with external access. Comfort is guaranteed year-round with gas ducted heating and evaporative cooling throughout, complementing the home’s bright and thoughtful design.
Outside, the lifestyle extras are plentiful. A fully powered 8m x 7.5m shed with concrete floor, gas heater, woodfire, air conditioning, the perfect man-cave set up! A lean-to offers superb functionality for trades or hobbies, with extra lock-up storage behind. There’s also a fire pit with seating, a built-in woodfire BBQ, gazebo, kids’ playset, woodshed, water tanks (10,000-litres approx) — all wrapped up in a private, family-ready setting among the trees.
This property has it all so don’t miss out - CALL TO ARRANGE A PRIVATE INSPECTION
TODAY! Call Bethany Sullivan 0438 844 968 or Aaron Day 0407 365 994.
PLEASE note: All property details shown are correct at time of publishing. Some properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office.
SURROUNDED by Selby’s lush and tranquil landscape, this expansive five-bedroom, three-bathroom family residence delivers the perfect blend of timeless character, modern functionality, and rural serenity. Situated on approximately 18 acres of gently undulating, usable land with fenced paddocks, this rare lifestyle property is ideal for growing families, multi-generational living, hobby farmers, or those seeking a peaceful tree change - just a one-minute drive to Wellington Road.
At the heart of the home lies a stunning open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area, complete with a magnificent 4-metre island bench - a dream for home chefs and entertainers alike. Polished Tasmanian Oak floors, ceiling roses, and ornate cornices add warmth and character, wood fire , zoned ducted heating and evaporative cooling ensure year-round comfort.
Step outside to a large entertaining deck with a Coonara wood heater, perfect for alfresco dining and taking in the sweeping views of surrounding paddocks and native bushland.
Upstairs, the grand master suite features a walk-in robe and private ensuite. Additional bedrooms are generously sized and serviced by a spacious second living area with an inviting gas open fireplace. Downstairs offers a fully versatile area with its own bedroom, bathroom, living and study areas, separate entrance, and private firepit zone - ideal for guests, teenagers, or in-law accommodation.
A standout feature is the huge barn/ workshop, fully equipped with mains gas, water, and electricity. With a large mezzanine level and ample space, it’s ideal as a workshop, studio, teen retreat, or for secure storage of farm equipment and toys.
Located just 10 minutes from Lysterfield, Harkaway, and Narre Warren, and offering easy access back into the city, this is a rare opportunity to enjoy the best of both worldsspace and seclusion, with convenience close by. Property Highlights:
• Expansive open-plan kitchen, living & dining area with 4-metre island bench
• Large entertaining deck with Coonara heater and panoramic views
Five generous bedrooms & three bathrooms, including a luxurious master suite with WIR and ensuite
• Second upstairs living zone with open fireplace
• Character-rich features: Tasmanian Oak floors, ceiling roses, ornate cornices
Zoned ducted heating & evaporative cooling
Versatile downstairs zone with private access - ideal for extended family or guests
• Fenced paddocks - perfect for horses, livestock, or hobby farming
• Huge barn/workshop with mains gas, water, electricity & mezzanine - ideal for studio, retreat, or storage
Firepit area and beautifully landscaped surrounds
• Double garage with internal access
• Quiet, private setting just 1 minute from Wellington Road for quick commuting
• Whether you’re seeking a slower pace, space to grow, or the freedom of a self-sufficient lifestyle, 130 Old Menzies Road offers a rare and remarkable opportunity in one of Selby’s most picturesque settings.
PRIME GENERAL RESIDENTIAL ZONE
A fantastic and convenient location, this charming old home is in need of some work but offers endless potential being one of the last large township parcels of land available. Boasting approx. 2335 sqm of prime Yarra Junction township real estate with General Residential Zone - Schedule 1 ( GRZ1) allowing subdivision potential { STCA }. An ideal location, main street frontage and a superb easy living position with just a short stroll to Yarra Junctions’ shopping hub, local schools and transport. A great investment for now and in the future with plenty of options on offer in a popular and sought after area.
On Monday 28 April, the Lilydale Croquet Club Division 1 level play team played host to the Mornington club. This week’s team was Craig McCracken and Murray Howlett.
First game as normal was the doubles. Craig and Murray started well and were taking their opportunities to run the hoops and controlled the pace of the game to go on and have a comfortable 7 hoops to Mornington 2 hoops.
Murray Howlett played in the first singles game. Mornington started well and had the first three hoops on the board before Lilydale got off the mark. Murray slowly worked his way into the game and eventually took the lead and went on to win 7 hoops to Mornington 5 hoops.
Craig McCracken played in the next game. Craig got off to a good start and was able to put his opponent under pressure which caused his opponent to make some crucial errors, Craig went onto win 7 hoops to Mornington 3 hoops.
At the break, the scores were Lilydale 3 games 21 hoops to Mornington 2 games 10 hoops. With two games to play Lilydale had already won the day. Murray Howlett played in the next singles game. Murray got off to a good start and controlled the game with some steady well thought out plays and went on to have a comfortable 7 hoops to Mornington 3 hoops win.
Craig McCracken played in the last game. This game was possibly Craig’s best for the season so far, everything Craig did from running hoops, clearing balls or jumping balls all came off and he had a dominant 7 hoops to 0 win. The final scores were Lilydale 5 games 35 hoops to Mornington 0 games 13 hoops.
With two weeks to play, Lilydale are in fourth position two wins behind the ladder leader in Kew, so it is going to be a close finish to the season.
The Lilydale division 2 level play team of Alan Jones, Kerri McCracken and Mick Crawley travelled to Kew Croquet club.
Kerri McCracken and Mick Crawley played in the doubles. This was a very close game with both teams going hoop for hoop and after the twelfth hoop had been played the scores were 6 hoops each with the thirteenth hoop to be played to decide the winner. Both teams set up reasonably well but it was the Kew team that was able to run the hoop and win 7 hoops to Lilydale 6 hoops.
Alan Jones played in the first singles game. Both teams started ok but then Alan missed a couple of hoops that he would normally have run which let in his opponent and Kew went onto win 7 hoops to Lilydale 3 hoops.
Mick Crawley played in the next singles game. Mick got off to a good start but the Kew player started to peg him back a bit, then Mick steadied and took the win 7 hoops to Kew 4 hoops.
At the lunch break, the scores were Kew 2 games 18 hoops to Lilydale 1 game 16 hoops. With two games to play, both teams still had a chance of winning the day.
Kerri McCracken played in the first game after lunch. Kerri got off to a flying start and really did not let her opponent settle into the game at all and in the end had a comfortable 7 hoops to Kew 2 hoops win.
This win to Lilydale put both teams on 3 wins each with Lilydale holding a 3 hoop advantage, so it was all down to the last game to decide the winner on the day.
Alan Jones played the last game. As you would expect for a deciding game things were tight, with both players not giving an inch and after twelve hoops had been played the score was six hoops a piece, with the thirteenth hoop to be played to decide the winner. The thirteenth hoop, like all the rest was a close affair but in the end it was the Kew player who came out on top. Kew 7 hoops to Lilydale 6 hoops.
The final scores for the game were Kew 3 games 27 hoops to Lilydale 2 games 29 hoops.
With two weeks to play, Lilydale sit on top of the ladder from Kew, both on 5 tests each, but Lilydale hold the lead by 7 games and 33 hoops, so the run home is going to be close.
Thursday saw the start of the Round Robin between the four top teams and the club that finishes on top after the round robin will be the season’s winner. Lilydale was playing at home this week against the team from Sandringham. The last time these two teams played one another,r it was a marathon match that did not finish until 5pm, hopefully this will not be a repeat of that day.
This week’s team for Lilydale was Murray Howlett, Mick Crawley, Kerri McCracken, An-
drew Pawley and Murray McLean. Mick Crawley played in the first singles game, both players were on the same handicap so neither player had an advantage. Mick started strongly and had the first three hoops on the board before his opponent was able to run his first hoop. Mick continued to control the game and went on to win 7 hoops to Sandringham 2 hoops.
The two Murrays, Howlett and McLean, paired up for the doubles. Lilydale were starting with a one-hoop disadvantage while Sandringham had a one-hoop advantage. Lilydale had made up their disadvantage at the first hoop, then it was just a matter of clearing their opponents away from the hoops so that Lilydale could set up and run the hoops. Lilydale 7 hoops Sandringham 4 hoops. Drew Pawley played in the next singles, Drew was starting with a one-hoop disadvantage. The game was close all the way with both players
playing some good and not-so-good croquet, but in the end, it was the Sandringham player who came out on top 7 hoops to Lilydale 6 hoops.
Mick Crawley and Kerri McCracken played in the next doubles game. Both teams were on the same handicap, so neither team had an advantage. Mick and Kerri quite often team up well in their doubles and this game was no exception as they controlled the game to go on and have a comfortable 7 hoops to Sandringham 2 hoops win.
At the break, the scores were Lilydale 3 games 27 hoops to Sandringham 1 game 15 hoops. Sandringham have their work cut out for them if they want to win with just two games to play. Kerri McCracken played in the last singles game. Kerri was starting with a one-hoop disadvantage. Kerri unfortunately missed a couple of hoops she would normally have run and this was all it took for the Sandringham player to win
7 hoops to Lilydale 5 hoops. Again, it was the two Murrays, Howlett and McLean that teamed up for the last doubles game. This was one extraordinary game. Lilydale were starting with a 2 hoop disadvantage. Sandringham got off to a quick start, while Lilydale just could not buy a hoop. At one point, Sandringham were 5 hoops and Lilydale still had 1 hoop in disadvantage, then a complete transformation in the game happened and Lilydale then just controlled the play and scored the next 8 hoops to go on and win 7 hoops to Sandringham 5 hoops. The final scores for the day were Lilydale 4 games 39 hoops to Sandringham 2 games 27 hoops. This win puts Lilydale on top of the ladder by one game with two games to play. There is no games next week due to the Australian Open competition at Victorian Croquet Centre at Cairnlea.
Mick Crawley hitting off to start the game. (Supplied)
Eagles land a pair of wins
By Callum Ludwig
Saturday 3 May was a great day for anyone wearing red shirts as the Lilydale Eagles picked up two comprehensive wins away at Croydon Ranges.
In perfect conditions, the Eagles’ Reserves quickly got to work dismantling their opponents, pressing effectively and particularly finding joy down the left-hand side through Trent ScottElsley.
They would have to wait a little while for a breakthrough, however, but eventually it came in the form of centre back James ‘Becks’ Laine, bundling the ball home following a corner and seemingly having put his goalscoring yips behind him.
The Eagles were largely on top in proceedings, only giving away a few half-chances to Croydon’s tricky left-winger while getting shots on goal in dangerous areas themselves.
It was another unlikely goalscorer who would double Lilydale’s lead in the 43rd minute as underlapping left back Theo Georgiou marauded forward and getting off not one shot, not two shots and not even three shots, before getting the ball into the back of the net despite some desperate defending from Croydon at his fourth attempt. It was the first goal for the newly-bald barber in some time and might mean he has to keep the chrome dome for good luck.
The Eagles weren’t done there, however and could sniff the chance for another goal on the stroke of halftime as Scott-Elsley was played completely through down the left-hand side with the keeper left in front of him and a wide-open Lucas Cordedda to his right. Unselfishly playing the pass across goal to his cheesemonger colleague, Cordedda had the goal at his mercy and proceeded to put it wide of the right post, much to the disbelief of everyone on the pitch.
Croydon Ranges managed to muster their first meaningful shot on the stroke of halftime, but it was smothered by keeper Callum Ludwig and it remained 0-2.
Early in the second half, there was to be redemption for Cordedda, however and this one he really couldn’t miss, tapping home from the shortest range in the 53rd minute to put Lilydale 0-3 to the good.
Perhaps a bit of complacency set him from here, as Lilydale continued to create chances at their attacking end but also allowed their opponents some opportunities on the break. Croydon’s left winger Christian Yusti broke away down his wing and fired off a shot that had to be quickly palmed over by Ludwig. Croydon Ranges mustered up some more chances, with Lilydale forced into some big blocks and Ludwig needing to make a couple of saves and claims.
The Eagles would pick up the last remaining goal of the game, courtesy of Byron Loveless’ trusty left boot to make it 0-4 in the 82nd minute and other than a last-minute trivela attempt from a Croydon Ranges midfielder with the last kick of the game, Lilydale saw out the match comfortably. The Reserves are now fourth in the table.
The Seniors were up next, looking to pick up their first win of the season.
Looking to keep the ball on the deck and build from the back, the Eagles immediately looked
more comfortable and assured than in previous weeks, with some nice interplay and good looks on goal, none more than when Jasper Blair, playing in a new position up front, was played completely through one-on-one but almost had too much time, sending his shot wide to the right.
Similar to Reserves striker Cordedda, it wouldn’t be long before J Blair would have his redemption, wiped out in the box while chasing a ball across the box that was seemingly going nowhere. Stepping up to take the penalty, J Blair tucked it away to the left and the Eagles had a lead for the first time this season.
The Eagles were well in control throughout the half but hadn’t managed to turn their dominance into more goals, though they did snuff out all of Croydon Ranges’ attacks. There was a sense of deja vu when in the 44th minute, Lilydale winger Christian ‘Flik’ Lindner-Mark was fouled in the box going after a ball that didn’t look to be an immediate threat to the Croydon goal and winning
another penalty, which he dispatched this time to the keeper’s right to give the Eagles a 0-2 halftime lead.
Going out into the second half intent on scoring from open play this time, Lilydale managed just that with a nice move eventually falling to the feet of Ethan Emmett who made it 0-3 early in the half.
Nothing seemed likely to threaten the Eagles’ control of the game until the 51st minute, when a dubious penalty was awarded to Croydon Ranges, which was tucked into the bottom right corner to make it 1-3 and to add insult to the injury, Lilydale fullback Braden Zammit was given a yellow card for the crime of asking a question about the decision.
This seemed to rattle the Eagles for a moment, as shortly after Croydon Ranges broke through with a long ball over the top, with the attacker putting it through the legs of keeper Ludwig before the Lilydale defenders could get back and clear, even celebrating the clearance a little prematurely while the ball was still in play.
The Eagles regained their composure, however and got back on top in the game, eventually restoring their lead with a towering header from J Blair from a corner because scoring goals from open play is overrated anyway.
Things quietened down for a few minutes but Croydon Ranges looked to find joy through long passes in behind the Lilydale defence and eventually got their second, with a deflected effort bouncing off Lilydale defender Lachy Hamling falling to the feet of John Hnialum who finished and was awared the goal despite the Eagles’ protests for offside.
Frustrated, Lilydale upped the ante and aimed to finish the game strongly, with midfielder Gilbert Harries eventually adding a fifth goal in the 88th minute to restore the comfortable cushion which the Eagles held until full time.
A 2-5 win away from home for their first of the season, and an ‘unofficial clean sheet’ according to Hamling, put the Eagles seventh in the table.
Both Lilydale sides will play Monbulk at home on Saturday 10 May.
Trent Scott-Elsley stands over a free kic. (Kaiden Deany-Smith: 476090)
Ethan Emmett turns on the break for Lilydale Eagles. (Samantha Moller: 476090)
WORK SMARTER.
The CK4210 HST ROPS tractor is designed to cater to different operator preferences and farming requirements.
KC2060 GRAPPLE
► Quick attach compatible
► 60 in (1,524 mm) working width
► AR400 Steel
► 114 kg weight
► 1,575 mm width
► 711 mm height closed
► 762 mm jaw opening
► 6 top teeth
► 7 bottom teeth
INC GST
Powered by a robust 42hp diesel engine, it provides reliable performance and fuel efficiency for a wide range of agricultural tasks. It's equipped with a hydrostatic transmission, allowing for seamless and effortless speed adjustments, making it ideal for users seeking ease of operation.
