Mail - Ferntree Gully Star Mail - 6th May 2025

Rental crisis for the vulnerable in region

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 minimum 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.

IN BRIEF

Boy located safe and well

Police advised the public over social media missing 13-year-old boy Jay from Monbulk has been located safe and well by CFA volunteers on 3 May.

“We’d like to thank our partner agencies including Victoria State Emergency Service and CFA (Country Fire Authority) volunteers, as well as the broader community for their assistance,” they said.

Police were appealing for public assistance to help locate missing teen after he was last seen in Monbulk about 3pm on Friday 2 May.

Police and family were concerned for his welfare due to his age and the length of time he has been missing.

Police issue statement regarding ongoing alleged Mathias track stalker

A social media storm has erupted after Olinda Police issued a public statement criticised as tone deaf, inaccurate and horrendous by the public on Friday 2 May.

An alleged male had been reported by many on social media in the last few months and Olinda police left the following statement on their Eyewatch page.

“On Thursday 24 April, police were notified of a male walking on Mathias Track, Olinda, wearing a face mask with a smile on it, talking to females on the track telling them ‘not to go down there’ in relation to the walking track.” read the post.

“Contrary to comments on Facebook groups, there were no reports to police of the male trying to get women into his vehicle. This is totally inaccurate”

“Police know the identity of the male and have attended his address and spoken to him.” “Appropriate agencies have been notified who are assisting the male.”

“Investigations indicate the male committed no offences and it is safe to continue to use this track as normal.”

Commenters have claimed multiple people have reported seeing the man with a knife, some included him approaching them dangerously or waving it threateningly and have criticised the police for their lack of action and statement delivery.

Yarra Ranges teens part of quartet charged in Endeavour Hills

After reports of five teenagers allegedly stealing at a shopping centre in Endeavour Hills on 30 April, detectives from the Casey Crime Investigation Unit have charged four teenage girls in connection with the incident.

The group reportedly stole items from five stores before a 55-year-old man intervened and was allegedly struck with a glass bottle, sustaining non-life-threatening injuries.

Two girls from the Yarra Ranges, aged 15 and 16, were charged with multiple offences including robbery, affray, theft, and assault, and were remanded before being bailed.

Two others from Greater Dandenong, aged 13 and 16, faced similar charges and were bailed to appear in court.

Investigations into a fifth teen are ongoing.

Witnesses or anyone with footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

Housing affordability was named as a major issue facing urban residents leading up to the federal election. (Stewart Chambers: 321951)

FEDERAL ELECTION

Wood glad to scrape home

By Corey Everitt

Jason Wood was on a less than one per cent margIncumbent Jason Wood will survive the Liberal Party’s nightmare election, but he will have to fight hard in three years, as La Trobe is no longer a safe seat.

With 98 per cent of the vote counted, the AEC has Wood with an over 2 per cent margin compared to Labor’s Jeff Springfield in the two-party preferred.

Formerly holding a strong 8 per cent margin in La Trobe, Jason Wood has suffered an unexpected five per cent swing against him.

“I congratulate Jeff Springfield, I thought he ran a really good campaign and he is a hell of a nice guy for his many years on council,” Wood said on election night.

Many have compared this election to Canada’s, only a few days prior, where conservatives were beaten by a wave of sentiment against the US Trump Administration.

Wood concurred with this opinion and called Trump’s return to the White House a “wrecking ball.”

“When Trump came to power, we thought it would be of assistance to the Coalition, little did we know it would end actually being a wrecking ball,” he said. “I’m not saying we ran a great campaign, we didn’t, but it really hurt.

“I don’t think we had a good campaign, we give Labor the credit, they had a good campaign nationally and, I hate to say it, but so did the Prime Minister.”

He also pointed the blame at the Coalition’s return-to-office policy for the public service, which he referred to as “one of the dumbest policy announcements”. Though it was not intended to be, Wood said it became caught up in the notion of being unfair to working mothers.

“I had phone calls straight away from colleagues, and even myself, from professional women saying, why would you want us to go back when you want kids and family-friendly environments to work from?” Wood said.

Springfield, who was nominated right at the start of the campaign and had little resources to work with, said it was a “David vs Goliath battle”.

“I just love the support I have been shown from the community, and all the people I have spoken to in La Trobe over the last weeks, I hear them calling for a change,” he said. “I hope this sets a benchmark for Liberal opposition parties in the future, to not be so negative and not try to work against the people of Australia.”

Though the Greens’ performance has been patchy amid the wave towards Labor, La Trobe candidate Jamie Longmuir looks set to increase the vote for the progressive side with an admirable 13 per cent primary vote - a swing of more than 2 per cent.

One Nation’s Leonardo Panetta also saw a swing of over 2 per cent for the other side of politics, jumping to a seven per cent primary vote.

Winning his seat while his party lost for a second time, Wood said the biggest loss is that his many local commitments cannot come to fruition.

Soul-searching for the coalition after election thumping

By Andrew Brown, AAP

The coalition will be forced to carry out a “fundamental reorganisation” of the party’s structure to ensure its ongoing relevance to voters after its election wipeout, a leading pollster says.

As votes continue to be counted after Saturday’s poll, figures show the coalition could slump to its lowest percentage of seats in parliament since the formation of the Liberal Party in the 1940s.

With 75 per cent of the vote counted, Labor has claimed 86 seats in the House of Representatives compared to the coalition’s 39, with 15 seats still in doubt.

While Anthony Albanese has claimed an expanded mandate as prime minister with a larger majority in his second term, questions are being raised as to where the coalition will go.

But it could be some time before a new leader is appointed by the Liberals.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (right) and now former Opposition Leader Peter Dutton shake hands ahead of the third leaders’ debate. (AAP Image/Pool, James Brickwood)

Deputy Leader Sussan Ley said the party room would meet to elect an opposition leader and deputy.

After consulting with the party’s senior leadership Ms Ley said several seats where preferential counting was continuing would have to

be decided before the meeting could take place.

She said her party was reflecting on the results with humility.

YouGov director of public data Paul Smith said the election was a referendum on the leadership of Peter Dutton, which was thoroughly rejected by voters.

“The Liberal Party result was devastating and requires a fundamental reorganisation of who they are ... they are not representative of Australians,” he told AAP.

“This is a situation where if they were a company, you would call in the administrators and look for a new business owner. It is catastrophic what happened.”

After the opposition leader lost his seat of Dickson in Labor’s biggest scalp of the election, a vacuum has emerged for the leadership of the coalition.

Frontrunners include shadow treasurer Angus Taylor, deputy Liberal leader Sussan Ley, along with opposition frontbenchers Dan Te-

Mr

said the

by the coalition was a “self-inflicted defeat”.

“Their strategy was to win working-class votes in Sydney and Melbourne but the problem was their strategy was at odds with their policies,” he said.

“They now hold no seats in Perth or Adelaide and hardly any in Sydney or Melbourne and lost most seats in Brisbane.”

Mr Albanese has aimed for a tone of humility in his landslide win, thanking supporters in his inner-western Sydney seat of Grayndler on Sunday, before pledging to get back to the job at hand.

We will be a disciplined, orderly government in our second term, just like we have been in our first,” he said.

“We’ve been given a great honour of serving the Australian people, and we don’t take it for granted, and we’ll work hard each and every day.”

Voters see through spin, and value journalistic integrity

By Paul Thomas, Star Managing Director

In the final days of the federal election campaign, Peter Dutton’s decision to lash out at the media was not just desperate, it was dangerous. Labelling the ABC and Guardian Australia as “hate media” and accusing journalists of being “activists” rather than reporters echoed the tired, toxic playbook of Donald Trump: when you’re behind, don’t reflect, just shout “fake news”.

Australians saw through that. No amount of spin, deflection or blame shifting could hide the truth. Voters rejected the Coalition’s message. Shooting the messenger doesn’t change the message.

Media scrutiny is not the enemy of democracy; it’s the oxygen that keeps it alive. A free press questions power, challenges spin and asks

uncomfortable questions. That’s not bias, that’s journalism.

Sure, when journalists get something wrong, call it out. Point to it. Demand a correction. Any credible newsroom will make one. But blanket accusations, unsubstantiated claims and outright falsehoods aimed at delegitimising the media are not just cheap politics, they actively erode trust in institutions that underpin democracy.

We see this tactic far too often, not just at a federal level but in local councils, including one our newsroom currently covers. Rather than engaging with the facts or addressing legitimate public concerns, some in power choose the easy path: Attack the media. But in doing so, they expose themselves, not the journalists.

That’s why strong local media matters now more than ever. Local newspapers and news-

rooms remain one of the last truly independent and accountable sources of community information. They report on councils, expose local corruption, celebrate community success and give a voice to residents. Yet their very survival is under threat.

Digital platforms and social media have stripped local media of its commercial foundations, and worse, they have helped legitimise the kind of rhetoric Dutton and Trump rely on. By feeding audiences personalised echo chambers and monetising outrage, they have weakened the public’s trust in credible journalism, while doing little to support its production.

Those who benefit from journalism must also help sustain it, and that includes the massive digital tech companies who have profited enormously from republishing, aggregating and monetising

news content without paying fair value. Now, artificial intelligence platforms are doing the same, scraping content, harvesting the work of journalists and training their models on material they never paid for. It’s the same pattern we’ve seen for years with social media - extract the value, deny responsibility, and undermine the industry you depend on.

This cannot continue. Everyone who profits from journalism must help fund it. That includes readers, advertisers, governments - and yes, the tech giants and AI developers whose empires have been built in part on the work of others. On Saturday, Australians made it clear they won’t be fooled by leaders who blame everyone but themselves. Let’s hope they also recognise the essential role of a strong, independent media and are willing to fight for its future.

Jason Wood said President Donald Trump had been like a wrecking ball to the Liberals’ electoral prospects.

han and Andrew Hastie.

Smith

loss

‘Pantry Angels’ Monny’s heart

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

In the heart of Monbulk, a small but mighty group of community-minded locals is quietly making a huge difference.

These unsung heroes, known affectionately as the “Pantry Angels”, are helping to keep the Monbulk Open Door Pantry stocked and running, ensuring that no one in the community has to go without - especially during difficult times.

One of these angels is Debra Clarke, a local Monbulk resident whose compassion and faith have driven her to donate regularly to the pantry.

“I’ve been through my own tough times, and I’ve always had what I needed, thanks to others who helped me out. So now, I want to give back,” Ms Clarke said. What sets Ms Clarke apart is her commitment to not just donating the essentials, but also providing a little extra care through her contributions. While many people drop off basic items, her donations are filled with thoughtful touches - luxury items that go beyond the norm.

“I believe in giving with my heart,” she said. “When I donate, I don’t just give the bare minimum. I try to donate things that make people feel special - like Nutri-Grain instead of just Weetbix, or nice soaps and body washes instead of the cheapest options.”

This focus on giving with dignity is a reflection of Ms Clarke’s belief that people struggling financially deserve to feel valued.

“It’s not just about survival. It’s about maintaining self-respect. People should feel like they matter, especially the kids,” she said. “If we can give them something a little nicer, it makes all the difference.”

Ms Clarke’s journey into giving back to the Monbulk Pantry started quietly, but over the years, it has grown into a regular practice.

“At first, we started off small, just sneaking things into the pantry without anyone knowing,” she said. “But then we realised we could do more. We started buying in bulk - stuff like laundry powder, high-quality shampoos, kids’ snacks, and toiletries.”

Small

Now, Ms Clarke is one of the Pantry Angels that people in Monbulk talk about with respect. These are the locals who have become a vital part of keeping the pantry well-stocked and ensuring that every family in need has access to more than just the basics.

The Monbulk Pantry isn’t just about food; it’s about creating a sense of dignity and normalcy for those who are struggling. The pantry’s coordinator, Jenni Nash, said the service has become a vital support for people doing it tough across the region.

“Monbulk Open Door Pantry is an outreach of the Open Door Community Care op shop, supporting those in need from Monbulk and the surrounding district,” she said. “We are supported by Monbulk Bendigo Bank, Foodbank Victoria and Monbulk Woollies. The service provides non-perishables, bread, frozen meals and fruit and vegetables. In true Monbulk community spirit, we also receive a large number of donations of home-grown produce from local residents, we’ve noticed a dramatic increase in the number of people visiting each day. These people include the homeless, those on low incomes, and families

simply struggling with the cost of living.”

Ms Clarke said the pantry is different because it allows people to go in and choose what they need themselves.

“When you’re going through tough times, the last thing you want is for someone to make decisions for you. It’s empowering to pick your own items, and it takes away that sense of embarrassment that often comes with asking for help.”

This level of empathy is what Debra believes makes the Monbulk Pantry stand out from other organisations.

“I’ve been in that place before - feeling low and ashamed because I couldn’t take care of my family. It’s so important that people feel good about getting the help they need,” she said.

Ms Clarke’s faith has played a significant role in her commitment to helping others.

“Jesus says: ‘What you do to the least of these, you do to me.’ That’s something I live by,” she said.

“He also says: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ If we all took that to heart, the world would

matter how small, do it. Whether it’s a few extra eggs from your backyard, some extra fruit, or a box of crackers, it all helps,” she said.

“If we all chipped in just a little bit, we could create a much stronger and more connected community.”

Over the last two years, Ms Clarke has seen how the Monbulk Pantry has grown in importance to the community.

“People are relying on it more, and it’s so important that we continue to support it. The pantry is a lifeline for so many families, and it’s also an incredible resource for those who just need a little extra to get by,” Ms Clarke said.

And it’s not just the Monbulk locals who benefit, she said the pantry also reaches out to surrounding communities in need, helping to provide a safety net for those doing it tough.

“These places - like the pantry, the Open Door Church, and the Care Network - are absolute blessings. Without them, many people would be in a much harder situation,” she said.

Looking ahead, Ms Clarke remains hopeful that more people will be inspired to give and volunteer their time, whether at the pantry or other community organisations.

“We all have something we can contribute, no matter how big or small,” she said. “And I truly believe that if we all step up, we’ll create a stronger, kinder, and more resilient Monbulk.”

“Whether you’re donating food, clothes, or your time, it all matters. And if everyone did their part, we’d see a big change in this town,” she says.

The Monbulk Pantry is currently at full capacity, focusing on supporting local residents and nearby areas. While the need is growing, organisers stress they aren’t able to assist people from further afield at this time.

For those interested in contributing, Ms Clarke encourages everyone to consider donating whatever they can - whether it’s non-perishable goods, homegrown produce, or even luxury items.

Putting recycling in the bin loose and not in plastic bags means more of it can be turned into new things.

Putting recycling in the bin loose and not in plastic bags means more of it can be turned into new things.

“If you have something to spare, please think about donating it,” she said. “Every little bit helps make Monbulk a better place for all of us.”

Recycling in plastic bags cannot be sorted sorting facilities and present a safety risk to staff.

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/

Anyone struggling can stop by the Monbulk Pantry and take home what they need. (Supplied)

Connection and compassion

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

It was a day full of heart and energy at the Knox Community Arts Centre on Tuesday, 29 April, as volunteers and community groups gathered for the second annual Inclusive Volunteering Awards and Conference.

Hosted by Eastern Volunteering (EV) Strengthening Communities, the event recognised the inspiring individuals and organisations from Melbourne’s eastern suburbs –spanning Yarra Ranges, Cardinia Shire, Knox, and Maroondah – who are dedicated to making volunteering inclusive for all, regardless of background, ability, or age.

From the tennis courts of Ferntree Gully to the shelters of Ringwood and community kitchens in the hearts of Melbourne Eastern suburbs, volunteers have been busy making a real impact. Their work tells a powerful story of connection, empowerment, and compassion.

One standout story came from Ann Bailey, treasurer at Ferntree Gully Tennis Club.

A familiar face in the local tennis community for over 40 years, Ms Bailey has seen the club evolve in remarkable ways.

Her recent involvement in the club’s All-Abilities program, which allows children with disabilities to take part in tennis, has filled her with a new sense of pride.

“When we started, the idea of an inclusive program seemed like a dream,” she said.

“But over time, the club embraced diversity, and now the All-Abilities program is one of the things I’m most proud of. The kids come in, light up, and start building confidence and skills. It’s amazing to see them engage and connect with everyone.”

The program has been a huge success, bringing joy to kids from all over the Dandenongs creating lasting memories through inclusive tournaments, and making sure that everyone has a place to belong in the world of sport.

Meanwhile, in Ringwood, the Croydon Hills Community Care (Maroondah Winter Shelter) has been providing vital support for rough sleepers for nearly a decade.

Founded by Scott Hawkins and a dedicated group of volunteers, the shelter offers a warm bed, meals, and essential services to some of the most vulnerable people in the community.

“We run on volunteers,” Mr Hawkins said.

“About 400 people help us each year, and it’s their generosity that keeps us going. We rely on local churches and community support to make it all happen.”

Despite the challenges brought on by Covid-19, when restrictions made it harder to provide traditional support, the shelter adapted and became a vital food distribution point in Melbourne’s east.

Mr Hawkins is proud to see the community shift from viewing homelessness as a problem to seeing it as something that can be solved together.

“Back in the day, people would avoid rough sleepers. Now, they know their names, and they understand their stories. It’s been an incredible change,” he said.

In the Yarra Ranges, Feed One Feed All (FOFA) founded by Lillie Giang, is also making waves.

What started as a response to the 2021 storms in the region, which left many without power and shelter, has now become a thriving charity.

Ms Giang and her team prepare and deliver thousands of meals each week to people in need, relying entirely on volunteers.

“We produce up to 1200 meals a week for 21 agencies in the area,” Ms Giang said.

“But every day is a challenge. We’re constantly looking for food, volunteers, and transportation.”

However, with the help of a local businessman, Nick Kritikos who was moved by the cause, FOFA is gaining more support.

Mr Kritikos who initially donated and later became more involved, has been using his platform to raise awareness of food insecurity in the region and rally support from others.

“The contrast is stark,” he said.

“While some people are stressing over land tax, others are struggling to feed their kids. We have to connect the dots and share these stories –volunteering makes a difference, no matter how small.”

Mr Kritikos’s involvement is a perfect example of how people from all walks of life can come together to make a difference, whether through financial support or by giving their time – or both.

FOFA is a community food project that not only provides meals but also offers a sense of be-

longing.

The 2024 Foodbank Hunger Report revealed that 3.4 million households across Australia have experienced food shortages in the past year.

“Many Australians are falling through the cracks in a national emergency, hiding in plain sight. We’re facing a food insecurity crisis. Last year, we cooked 43,000 meals, but even if we cooked 200,000, the need would still be there,”

Mr Kritikos said.

“Our meals go to all kinds of people – Aboriginal communities, the elderly, those recovering from illness, mental health struggles, and peo-

about how the organisation changed her life after a tough period with her mental health and dealings with Centrelink.

“Here, I’m not just ‘the girl with bipolar’. I’m Abby. I can be myself, ask questions, and still feel valued,” she said.

“It’s given me a sense of purpose.”

Then there’s Mervyn Lim. Retired and feeling a bit adrift, Mr Lim was invited along to FOFA by a mate.

“I started with a bit of cooking,” he chuckled.

“Now I’m doing logistics, training – you name it – what began as a hobby turned into a second family.”

“It’s a safe space. No one judges you. You feel like you belong.”

The conference wasn’t just about handing out awards – it was about sharing these kinds of stories that show how inclusive volunteering really can transform lives.

For Ms Haynes, Mr Kritikos, and Mr Lim, FOFA isn’t just a volunteering gig. It’s where they found connection, purpose, and a place where they’re embraced for who they are.

As Mr Kritikos put it: “You don’t have to be rich or a big-shot to make a difference. Just get involved. If I can do it, anyone can.”

The stories shared that day really highlighted how volunteering can make a difference, not just for individuals but for the whole community. Whether it’s at Ferntree Gully Tennis Club, the Maroondah Winter Shelter, or FOFA, volunteers are creating spaces where everyone feels like they belong and are genuinely supported.

At the awards, the chairman of EV Strengthening Communities, Ranjit Gajendra, emphasised that sustaining such initiatives requires more than just passion – it requires long-term funding and support.

“Collaboration and celebrating great work are key. This second year is just the beginning of showcasing the positive impact happening in our communities,” he said.

“We need long-term commitments, not just year-to-year uncertainty.”

“Volunteering is in our DNA, but to continue these efforts, we need stable resources and funding.”

As the event wrapped up, it was clear that these volunteers and organisations are creating a more inclusive, compassionate world.

They’re not just offering services – they’re offering hope, dignity, and a place where people can truly feel like they belong.

For anyone looking to get involved, the message was clear: there’s always a way to give back. Whether at local clubs, shelters, or community groups, volunteering doesn’t just make a difference – it connects us all, and that’s something everyone can be part of.

The Inclusive Volunteering Awards and Conference also acknowledged the contributions of a wide range of community organisations that are making a difference across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

ple who’ve temporarily fallen out of work. Many can’t afford to lose their mortgage or car, so they cut back on food.”

“One story that really stuck with me was about a guy from Monbulk driving a BMW. The volunteers were surprised to see him at the food pantry. When they asked, he said, ‘I’ve just lost my job. Food is always the first thing we cut. I can’t feed my kids.’ For two or three months, he came back for food. Then, one day, he showed up with his trunk full of groceries and said, ‘Thank you. You saved my house, and you saved my family.’” Abby Haynes, a volunteer at FOFA, spoke

These included Baptcare, Caladenia Dementia Care, Communities Council on Ethnic Issues (Eastern Region), Community First Responders Foundation Ltd, Croydon Hills Community Care (Maroondah Winter Shelter), EACH, FeedOne Feed All, Ferntree Gully Tennis Club, Interchange Outer East, Knitted Knockers Australia, Knox Community Chess Enthusiasts, Manningham Australian Chinese Mutual Aid Association, Manningham Whitehorse L2P program, Maroondah Volleyball, Melbourne East Disability Advocacy, Mitcham Charity Knitters, Mooroolbark Community Garden, Mountain District Radio Inc 3MDR, MVC Boxing, The Boroondara Family Network,

for

Underneath My Umbrella, Women Support Incorporated, Women’s Federation

World Peace Australia, and Yarra Valley ECOSS.

People from various organisations came together to celebrate the powerful impact of community volunteering at the Inclusive Volunteering Awards. (Shamsiya Hussainpoor: 475401)

The second annual Inclusive Volunteering Awards was a great success, celebrating the contributions of local volunteers. (Shamsiya Hussainpoor: 475401)

FOFA volunteers making a real impact in their community. (L-R): Mervyn Lim, Lillie Giang, Nick Kritikos, Lay Hoon Tan, Abbi Haynes, and Veronica Yong. (Shamsiya Hussainpoor: 475401)

L-R: Ranjit Gajendra, Scott Hawkins, Deepak Joshi, and Raju Adhikari. (Shamsiya Hussainpoor: 475401)

Emerald celebrates Dale’s passion for film, community

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

The Emerald community is remembering one of its most beloved figures, Dale Allen, who passed away peacefully at Casey Hospital in Berwick on 9 April at the age of 82.

A passionate film enthusiast, dedicated volunteer, and long-time member of the University of the Third Age (U3A) Emerald, Mr Allen’s influence will be felt for years to come.

As vice president of U3A Emerald, he played a key role in shaping the direction of the organisation. His leadership was marked by his infectious sense of humour and his ability to cut through the clutter.

“He was the one who kept us on track,” U3A Emerald president, Pat Calton Boncristiani said.

“Dale made meetings more efficient and, more importantly, fun.”

While Mr Allen’s contributions were farreaching, it was his Cinema Classics sessions that left a lasting impact on the community.

These screenings, which he ran for many years, were more than just an opportunity to watch films - they were a chance for the community to bond over a shared love of classic cinema.

“Dale’s personality meant he developed a very loyal following in the Cinema Classics group,” Ms Calton Boncristiani said.

“Each session brought a little nostalgia and a lot of joy.”

Mr Allen’s daughter, Lauren Allen, shared

that his passion for film was sparked in his youth.

“Dad grew up in inner-city Melbourne in the ‘40s and ‘50s, and going to the cinema was just part of life,” she said.

“He was captivated by the big screen, and it gave him an escape during difficult times, like when his dad was bedridden. He’d skip Saturday sports to sneak off to a matinee movie instead.”

Over the years, Mr Allen gathered an impressive collection of over 2000 films, many of which were regularly featured in Cinema Classics.

For Mr Allen, films like ‘The Man Who Would Be King’ - his favourite - were more than entertainment; they were a passion.

“The sweeping vistas, the action, the story - it was everything he loved,” Ms Allen said.

“He first saw it on the big screen, and it stayed with him.”

To honour his legacy, U3A Emerald will host a special screening of The Man Who Would Be King on 29 April.

“It’s touching to know the community held him in such high regard,” Ms Allen said.

“Even though we couldn’t attend the session, Bruce did a wonderful job of honouring Dad’s memory, including one of Dad’s favourite shorts, Puttin’ on the Ritz.”

But Mr Allen’s life was about so much more than films. He was a man of many interestsclassic cars, ballooning, 3D photography, and even watch collecting.

In fact, his passion for ballooning led him to

become one of the first hot air balloon pilots in Australia, and he was recognised with an international award for his contributions to the sport.

“Dad was a raconteur of the highest order,” Ms Allen said.

“He had an extremely dry wit, and sometimes it was hard to tell whether he was being serious or not. But he had a genuine curiosity about the world, and he was always learning.”

In the years before his death, Mr Allen rediscovered his love for education through U3A.

“He always wanted to know everything about the things that interested him,” his daughter said.

“U3A gave him a chance to rediscover that love of learning and share it with others.”

Despite his many interests and achievements, Mr Allen remained humble and grateful for the life he lived.

“He was a consummate diplomat, he could walk into any conversation and contribute in a meaningful way. But what stood out most was his positive view of life. Even in his final months, he showed no bitterness - only gratitude for the amazing life he had,” Ms Allen said.

As the Emerald community continues to honour his memory, it’s clear that Mr Allen’s legacy will endure.

“He leaves behind a wonderful collection of friends from around the world and a lesson that you’re never too old to live life to the fullest,” Ms Allen said.

Killik team on the top table

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Belgrave’s own Killik Handcrafted Rum has just landed a spot on OpenTable’s Top 50 Restaurants for Brunch and Lunch in Australia for 2025 - and for the tight-knit team behind this much-loved local hangout, it’s a moment worth savouring.

The list, released in the lead-up to Mother’s Day, is based on more than 180,000 verified diner reviews and booking data.

Killik is one of only 18 Victorian venues to make the national cut - a proud achievement for a venue that’s never tried to be anything other than local, warm, and a little bit different.

Co-owner and venue manager Andy Jamieson said the announcement was a particularly special moment for the restaurant.

“We first thought it was a local mention, then realised it was the national list so that was a nice surprise. For a small place like ours, it’s reassuring to know people outside our neighbourhood notice what we’re doing,” Mr Jamieson said.

Set just off Belgrave’s main strip, Killik is equal parts small-batch distillery, cocktail bar, and weekend brunch spot. Its Sunday brunch offering has quietly built a loyal following - not just for the food and cocktails, but for the experience itself.

“We like brunch ourselves and kept spotting small things we’d tweak,” Mr Jamieson said.

“Because we already make our own spirits and the kitchen team was cooking food we loved, it felt natural to put it all together. We just tried to create the kind of relaxed weekend meal we’d enjoy with friends.”

Killik’s brunch runs as a two-hour sitting, kicking off with four seasonal cocktails using housemade spirits, followed by a three-course meal - a shared starter, a rotating main, and dessert. It’s all done with a laid-back vibe and a little extra mountain charm.

“It’s structured enough to feel looked after, but casual enough that you can just settle in and enjoy the view,” Mr Jamieson said.

As Mother’s Day fast approaches - the biggest dining day of the year, according to OpenTable, the team at Killik is already deep in prep mode, making sure the day feels just that little bit more special.

“We plan the day in detail so families can just turn up,” Mr Jamieson said.

“The menu is finalised a few weeks out, the timing is tight, and we add a couple of small touches - think welcome drinks or flowers on the tables - so it feels a bit more thoughtful than a regular Sunday.”

It’s that care and consistency that keeps people coming back.

“We keep things straightforward: good fla-

vours, friendly service, no fuss,” he said.

“People seem to pick up on the fact that the team enjoys being here, and that makes the room feel comfortable. On a day like Mother’s Day, when everyone’s hoping for a smooth lunch, that calm energy helps.”

The OpenTable recognition is a welcome moment of validation for the whole crew - but at its heart, Killik is still all about great food, great drinks, and creating a space people want to return to.

“It’s a nice nod that we’re headed in the right direction,” Mr Jamieson said.

“We’ll keep refining what we do - new spirit releases, seasonal menus, maybe a few small events. But the goal stays the same: make sure people leave feeling they’ve had a relaxed, worthwhile time.”

Emerald’s beloved Dale Allen’s influence in U3A and classic cinema has left a lasting legacy in the community. (Supplied)

Killik Handcrafted Rum in Belgrave mixes bold spirits with a relaxed brunch atmosphere, making it a must-visit in the Dandenong Ranges. (Supplied)

Killik Handcrafted Rum in Belgrave makes OpenTable’s Top 50 Brunch and Lunch spots in Australia for 2025. (Supplied)

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Free premiere screening for documentary on Black Saturday

By Dongyun Kwon

Although it’s been more than 16 years since the Black Saturday bushfires drove the region to fear, the trauma has remained in the survivors’ daily lives.

The documentary film, Portraits of Regeneration,willrevealthechallengingten-yearjourneys of four groups of survivors following Black Saturday at the free premiere screening in Healesville.

Filmmaker Matthew Cairns said the screening was originally set for May 2020.

“At that time, there was what’s now known as the 2019-2020 Black Summer fires,” he said.

“That was one of the reasons why the screening was delayed because of the emergency situation, and then Covid came in.

“I feel really happy and relieved that the film is going to be finally screened in public thanks to the support of the Yarra Ranges Council.”

After experiencing two major bushfires, the 2003 Canberra bushfires and the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires, the local filmmaker was motivated to work on the film project Touch By Fire.

Cairns said he got an initial grant from Regional Arts Victoria to start documenting stories of people who’d gone through the fires.

“That expanded to a larger film project in conjunction with the Yarra Ranges Council, particularly the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum in Lilydale,” he said.

“From 2009 to 2012, I documented stories of residents, emergency services, some media and also the former Premier John Brumby at that stage, and that resulted in a film screening in 2012 and a DVD.”

In 2019, the 10th anniversary of Black Saturday, Cairns decided to make a follow-up film to see how the survivors went through the past 10 years.

He contacted four groups of previous project participants and was also successful in receiving the Victorian Government 10-Year Anniver-

sary of the 2009

Community Arts Grant from Regional Arts

The filmmaker said he’d chosen the four groups because each had been affected by the disaster slightly differently.

“They had different stories, and I wanted to bring those stories to the film and see how they had gone after 10 years,” Cairns said.

“I think it’s really important to try and show how people’s lives are affected, what the ongoing issues are, and how they live with those issues.”

The four groups were Paul Crowe with his involvement with the Callignee Hall reconstruction, the Draper family and their hopes of rebuilding their dream Callignee home, Kinglake’s Mountain Home Road residents who created a memorial recovery garden, and the Skinner family with their immense challenges with PTSD.

The premiere screening will be launched by the former Victorian Premier John Brumby AO at The Memo, Healesville on Saturday 17 May.

Cairns said the film participants will have the opportunity to speak to viewers through either short talk or musical performances in between segments of the film.

“Given that the film was (done) in 2019, I felt that the participants’ lives, (now) six years later, have changed even further. So rather than just screening the film from start to finish, I felt some sort of contemporising is needed so that the participants, who were involved, are given an opportunity to speak to the viewers,” he said.

The screening will commence at 1pm but the door will be open from 12pm with light refreshments.

For more information about this free premiere screening or to book a ticket, please visit the following website, yarraranges.vic.gov.au/ Experience/Events/Portraits-of-RegenerationPremiere-Film-Screening

Young creatives launch

By Tanya Steele

Dripping blood, fear, nostalgia, healing and latestage capitalism – the young artists of the Yarra Ranges have come together to unveil a collective VCE showcase that does not disappoint.

Four students from the exhibit spoke with Star Mail journalist Tanya Steele ahead of their official launch at Burrinja Cultural Centre on Friday 2 May sharing their works and process as developing artists.

With an interest in the macabre and the detail in anatomy, Harrison from Upwey High School has created a giant interactive sculpture of human organs.

Not just a visual, the piece has an interactive element with fake blood dripping from it, which Harrison said was partly inspired by an exhibit he saw in the city.

“It was part of this whole thing with pipes and wires everywhere – It was really cool. I really liked the sound of the water actually dripping through it,” he said.

After some trial and error, Harrison said he ended up creating the massive set of organs for his work.

“They had a felt filling them with random, weird materials, so that when you actually feel the organs, they’re squishy and they’re sometimes crunchy,” he said.

Artist Patience, also from Upwey High School, applied a nostalgic lens to her showcase piece.

Titled ‘Golden Child’, the circular oil painting explores themes of perfection and anxiety, with two figures representing the transition and changes between school and adult life.

“I think everyone in this exhibition– we’re at a point where we are going from childhood out of school into adulthood for the first time,” said Patience.

Putting storytelling threads into her work, Patience said she looks back on like moments that might have been insignificant at the time, but now that she is older, she regards them quite fondly.

“I actually got my friends to model – it was my first big oil painting,” she said.

Milla from Mater Christie has focused her attention on sculpture work for the showcase, ex-

All four students were excited for their launch and happy to see what comes next as artist. (Tanya Steele)

ploring themes of sexual violence.

“I made it to represent the healing process victims of sexual assault experience,” she said.

A set of pristine white wings with bloodied handprints explores Milla’s feelings and processing of the horrific numbers of women who experience sexual assault in Victoria.

“I put red handprints on it to show the scars left on those girls’ lives,” Milla said.

Last but not least, Dean from Lilydale High

School chatted about his two paintings featured in the showcase that critiqued late-stage capitalism and planned obsolescence.

His two different paintings show fine detail and slow decay in one, with a saturated oil pastel in another.

Dean is inspired by the world around him and said his work represents the idea that despite the illusion of improvement in technology over the years, nothing’s really gotten better.

“I like observing the world, specifically with how late-stage capitalism is sort of eating itself,” he said.

All four artists met with others from the showcase on Friday 2 May, and celebrated their work and achievements together – a chance to collaborate and connect across the Yarra Ranges. The Creative Showcase will be on display for free until 18 May at the Burrinja Cultural Centre in Upwey.

The premiere screening will be launched by the former Victorian Premier John Brumby AO at The Memo, Healesville on Saturday 17 May. (Stewart Chambers: 271901)

Victorian Bushfires

Victoria to make another film.

SENIORS LIVING

have your say

Your voice in your shire

The voices of Cardinia Shire’s community are essential in shaping the next Council Plan and Budget, which are currently open for community consultation. Council is seeking feedback on key objectives that will guide the development of the next four-

year Council Plan and Budget. Having your say ensures that your unique needs and perspectives are considered, helping to create a future where Cardinia

Your voice is powerful. Have your say today!

Future Cardinia: Community Consultation

You’re invited to give feedback on the draft strategic objectives for the new Council Plan 2025–29.

Proposed objectives:

Thriving communities: Inclusive programs and facilities that enhance engagement, wellbeing, and resilience.

Vibrant places: Well-designed towns and infrastructure that strengthen belonging and connection.

Adaptive environments: Care for the natural environment and support recovery from challenges.

Prosperous economies: Encourage urban and rural business and local employment growth.

Responsible leaders: Demonstrate responsible leadership and financial stewardship.

Why is your voice needed?

Representation: Ensures your needs and perspectives are considered.

Accessibility: Advocates for better services and infrastructure.

Community Connection: Strengthens your role

in our community.

How to participate:

Visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/Future-Cardinia to review the draft objectives and complete the survey by Sunday 11 May 2025.

Draft Budget 2025–26: Have Your Say

The Draft Budget 2025–26 and the draft Revenue and Rating Plan 2025–29 are open for feedback until Friday 9 May 2025. These documents outline how Council proposes to fund services, projects, and programs in 2025-2026 as well as set the strategic direction for Council’s sources of income for this Council term.

Why is your voice needed?

Financial Transparency: Ensures funds support essential services.

Advocacy: Advocating for funding from other levels of government

Long-term Planning: Reflects the long-term needs of our community.

How to participate:

Visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/DraftBudget2025 to view the documents and provide feedback by Friday 9 May 2025.

For more information about Ageing Well in Cardinia Shire, visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/AgeingWell or call 1300 787 624.

Come

on Cardinia Shire Council’s next Council Plan and Budget. (Supplied)

Shape the future of Cardinia Shire.

Shire thrives.

Meet and share ideas with other Cardinia Shire residents.

New tax hits farmers hard

In 2014, Victorian Labor promised no new taxes.

After 10 years in power, with net debt growing by $59.6 million per day, forecast to reach $188 billion by 2028, the Allan Labor Government introduced its 60th new tax to Parliament.

Labor’s latest proposed tax – the Emergency Services Levy – will replace the Fire Services Property Levy and will cost Victorians an additional $2.1 billion in tax over the next three years, in a cost-of-living crisis.

Rather disingenuously, Labor is spruiking this new tax as supporting volunteer services of the State Emergency Service (SES) and Country Fire Authority (CFA).

State of Affairs

Bridget Vallence Evelyn MP

In fact, Labor has refused to quarantine tax collected for the SES and CFA, instead confirming money raised from the levy will fund back-office operations of agencies including Triple Zero Victoria, Emergency Management Victoria, and Emergency Recovery Victoria.

This comes after Labor cut $38 million from Triple Zero Victoria in its last budget.

These public service agencies have always been funded from consolidated revenue; Labor now plans to double-tax Victorians for these core services.

I’ve long advocated for increased funding for

Karralyka Thjeatre

Songs of Bon Jovi – Sang by Rob Mills.

Featuring a band of some of Australia’s best musi cal backing Aussie superstar of stage and screen, Rob Mills began his career in the spotlight as a fi nalist in the first season of Australian Idol (2003), and then toured his certified Gold Album Up All Night.

The following year he made the move into musical theatre as the original Fiyero in Wicked (2008).

Rob entered our living rooms as bad boy Finn Kelly in Neighbours in 2017 and left a lasting impression on our TV screens.

Rob has also appeared on Dancing With The Stars, Celebrity Apprentice, and is fixture on Channel 9’s Carols by Candlelight every year.

Let us take you on a journey from the 80’s to now! Dust off the leath4er and denim, cut your sleeves off, and let’s belt out these classics together on a night you won’t forget.

• Season: Saturday 7 June. 8pm.

Eltham Little Theatre

Cross roads – A Series of One Act Plays. The Face of Angels

The deepest wounds of war are not always visible

… and it’s the greatest horrors can be most personal.

Napoleon in Exile

Evelyn is a single mother sick with cancer. Corey, her low-functioning son with Aspergers, has always been under her care. Evelyn must prepare him for life after she has gone.

Woman of the World

Ready to take on the world, three young women in their first share house celebrate their independence before an uninvited guest upsets the party.

Red

A woman has amnesia resulting from an accident. Her children have different feelings about her memory.

• Season closes Saturday 17 May.

Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre

Haunted

Playwright Nigel Burke is neurotic, agoraphobic and hasn’t written a word in months.He is fascinated by Lord Byron and is given a cup that belonged to Lord Byron, his writing improves but then the ghost pf Lord Byron appears but only Nigel can see him.

The play opened with a great set, Nigel’s desk on audience left, a lounge suite on audience, a door to the right and a central door to the rear.

There were windows across the rear with the door having glass window.At the rear outside was a parge tree filling the exterior, in fact one thought it was a view out the back of the theatre looking at the park to the rear of same.

Your review a little was a little disappointed in the voice of the actors, they did not project their voices to the full capacity to suit the matinee audience which were fairly old to middle-aged. There was one exception, Michael Fenimore who played Lord Byron.

His voice filled the theatre andh is acting was very good. Nigel Burke was played by Feliks Woltersdorf., a good performance of such a character.

Mary Burke, Nigel’s wife, was given a stirling performance by Sheona Gregg.

Potter was well handled by bob Bramble and Nigel’s she we say, a bit of fluff was wonderfully played Rosy Leonardi.

Nigel’s agent, Turner Gould was given a good performance by Hamish Walker.

Overall a good production but the sound did leave your reviewer a little unsettled.

the SES, including the Lilydale and Emerald SES Units who do tremendous work protecting our community, and the Liberals and Nationals do not oppose the SES receiving funding under the levy.

But, when we asked the government how much money raised from the levy will support SES or CFA volunteers, they flatly refused to answer.

Frankly, it’s outrageous Labor is no longer reserving funds raised by this levy exclusively for frontline emergency services and instead is increasing the tax to cover previous budget cuts to public agencies.

Further, and astonishingly, despite promising SES and CFA volunteers they would be exempt from the levy, the government has admitted volunteers will now be required to pay the levy upfront, then fill out a form for a reimbursement from the government at a later date.

Crazy!

Every Victorian will pay more under this new tax, with farmers being hardest hit.

Residential and commercial property rates will double, the industrial rate will increase 64 per cent, and the primary producer rate will increase a whopping 189 per cent.

By taxing Victorian farmers significantly more, Labor has forgotten that farmers are the very people that help with bushfires and storms in the first place, often using their own equipment. The new tax will cause extreme financial strain on local farmers and will result in higher prices for fresh produce at the shops for all Victorians.

Victorians deserve tax relief, not more taxes, in a cost-of-living crisis.

Imposing its 60th new tax is further evidence of the Allan government’s financial mismanagement, and it is Victorians that are paying the price.

MCU gets Suicide Squad

Thunderbolts

Starring Florence Pugh, David Harbour and Lewis Pullman

M 4/5

Effectively the Suicide Squad of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Thunderbolts follows Yelena (Florence Pugh), an elite assassin, who joins a band of antiheroes against their powerhungry boss as a godlike new threat emerges.

The ensemble cast has fantastic chemistry as bickering misfits who look out for each other.

Pugh anchors the film as a killer with a good heart, David Harbour provides levity and paternal pathos as her adoptive father Alexei, aka Soviet supersoldier Red Guardian, and Bob (Lewis Pullman), a gentle, unassuming man with a dark past and devastating powers, has a deeply moving arc about dealing with depression.

Walker (Wyatt Russell) and Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen) have less to do in the plot but are still engaging characters.

The fight scenes are thrilling and easy to follow, blending the characters’ diverse styles, and unlike Captain America: Brave New World, in which Falcon has no superpowers and battles fighter jets and Red Hulk with barely a scratch to show for it, Thunderbolts’ action balances superpowers with substantial

tension and vulnerability.

Thunderbolts also feels cohesive and moves at a steady pace, whereas the disjointed Brave New World reeks of reshoots.

Thunderbolts plays with unsettling dream imagery at several points, and the main villain’s design is chillingly effective in its simplicity.

As for flaws, Thunderbolts unceremoniously dumps a major character early on, the impeachment hearings against corrupt CIA director Allegra de Fontaine (a delightfully devious Julia Louis-Dreyfuss) dip in and out of relevance, and the ending feels abrupt and too clean.

An exciting and often touching characterdriven superhero movie and one of the best MCU films in quite some time, Thunderbolts is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

Magical thinking for readers

Renowned American author Stephen King once said: “Books are a uniquely portable magic.”

Veronica Sullivan, director of the 2025 Melbourne Writers Festival, says books possess a special kind of magic: “They transform our understanding of ourselves and others. They animate divergent ways of seeing. They immerse us in fantastic worlds that blur the line between the real and the imagined, and offer pathways towards new possible futures.”

More importantly: “Reading equips us to navigate the world with empathy, curiosity and imagination – to dream big and take a leap of faith. Storytelling is a transformative force –a way to not only understand the world but to change it, one story at a time.”

To celebrate magical thinking – the power of imagination and connection through storytelling and reading – this year’s Melbourne Writers Festival (8-11 May) invites some of Australia’s and the world’s most brilliant writers and thinkers to tackle issues spanning literature, politics, philosophy, history and psychology. Some of the international highlights include Kaliane Bradley (The Ministry of Time), Colm Tóibín (Long Island), Asako Yuzuki (Butter), and Bora Chung (Your Utopia).

Irish novelist Marian Keyes will converse with our own bestselling author Jane Harper, while Argentine author Mariana Enriquez will discuss her latest collection of short stories A Sunny Place for Shady People.

Equally eye-catching are American author

Lev Grossman’s The Bright Sword, a reimagining of the King Arthur legend, and Dutch author Yael van der Wouden’s The Safekeep, which was shortlisted for the 2024 Booker Prize. Meanwhile, some of the local highlights include Kate Grenville (Unsettled), Emily Maguire (Rapture), Josephine Rowe (Little World), Jimmy Barnes (Highways and Byways), and Hannah Kent (Always Home, Always Homesick).

Particularly noteworthy is the event “Cultural Vultures”, whose panelists will consider “digital versus real-world artistic spaces, the hyperreality of the information age, and making art in the age of algorithms”. For serious thinkers, the panel “Drawing the Line” will explore how comics and graphic art can “drive change, amplify urgent voices and challenge injustice”.

More details and ticketing information about these and other events can be found at the Melbourne Writers Festival website: mwf. com.au

Powerfully stitching grief

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Upwey textile artist Natasja van Wyk has spent the last year stitching red thread through fabric - not just as a form of art, but as a way of coping with grief.

Now, her work has found a powerful public voice in ‘Threads of Violence’, a raw and deeply moving exhibition on display at The Memo in Healesville from Thursday, 17 April to Sunday, 6 July, 2025.

Using torn red cloth, delicate stitching, and unspoken memory, Ms Van Wyk’s work invites viewers into a space of vulnerability and reflection. But behind the striking visuals, lies something much more intimate - the lived experience of trauma, grief, and the slow, quiet process of healing.

On 9 July 2024, Ms van Wyk received the call no one should ever get: her brother, Johannes, had been murdered in South Africa.

Immediately, she retreated to her studio at Burrinja and started sewing.

Not to make art. Not for anyone else to see. Just to keep breathing.

“I didn’t know how to talk about it,” she said.

“So I started stitching. I used what I had — my tablecloth, curtains from my old home in South Africa, the clothes I was wearing when I was mugged. The red fabric just kept growing.”

Those early stitches — raw, uneven, necessary — became the foundation of Threads of Violence, now on display at The Memo in Healesville. It is a textile exhibition unlike any other: intimate, haunting, and achingly honest.

At first glance, the panels appear beautiful. But beauty isn’t the point.

Visitors are invited to examine the work with UV flashlights, revealing hidden messages stitched into the cloth — stories Ms van Wyk never meant to tell, the conversations she wished she never had to have.

What lies beneath the surface is what truly matters.

“With this exhibition, I’m telling the stories I never told before — the ones that shape us, that change us, but that we’re not always brave enough to say out loud,” she said.

Every thread in the exhibition carries weight: memory, loss, resilience.

In South Africa, violence — including hijackings like the one that took Johannes’ life — has become frighteningly normalised.

This exhibition holds space for what is too often silenced or accepted as “just how things are.”

Here, those stories are honoured instead. Slowly. Quietly. Stitch by stitch.

Alongside her solo work, the exhibition features Threads of Connection — a growing community quilt stitched from the words of strangers.

Visitors are invited to write down a conversation they wish they never had. Their words are anonymous, private — and yet profoundly shared.

“There’s no pressure to write anything,” Ms van Wyk said.

“But people do. Something about the space lets them.”

She is turning those words into a large floral quilt — a work of collective remembrance, soft and bold all at once.

Threads of Violence is not a cry of pain, but a testimony of survival.

It does not ask for pity. It offers permission.To feel. To speak. To rest. To begin again.

“There’s hope here too,” Ms van Wyk said. “Not the loud kind. But the kind that stays.”

Threads of Violence is showing at The Memo in Healesville until Sunday, 6 July.

Iolanthe with dash and a splash of Ebbsworthy colour

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Upwey’s Singularity Choir is preparing to bring a splash of colour, charm and old-school theatre magic to the stage - thanks in no small part to their beloved costume artist, Helen Ebbsworthy, whose hand-crafted creations have become a much-loved feature of the group’s annual Gilbert and Sullivan operettas.

Singularity has been running for close to 20 years, performing classical choral works for charity. But it’s their yearly costumed production that gets everyone talking - not just for the music, but for the sheer joy and visual feast that Ms Ebbsworthy helps bring to life.

This year’s show, Iolanthe, is a characteristically quirky tale of fairies and politicians, complete with dramatic costumes and surprise wings.

Ms Ebbsworthy, a long-time volunteer, now oversees the entire look of each productionchoosing colours, designing styles, and stitching it all together from op shop treasures like doona covers and hospital sheets.

What she can create from a $2 find is nothing short of magical.

“She’s just extraordinary,” choir manager, Margaret Tyson said.

“She creates everything from scratch - even the flowers in the fairies’ hair. She cuts them out of curtains, sews in beads, and matches each set to the costume’s colour palette. It’s creative and meticulous and done with so much love.”

But it’s not just about looking beautiful - it’s about feeling it. Ms Ebbsworthy takes great care in making each singer feel confident, no matter their age or body type.

Ms Tyson said Ms Ebbsworthy works with mannequins of different shapes and sizes at home, and cleverly tailors each costume to flatter the person wearing it.

“The singers don’t always know why they look so good - but it’s because Ms Ebbsworthy’s thought through every little detail,” Ms Tyson said.

This year, Ms Ebbsworthy most theatrical

challenge has been designing hidden channels in the British peers’ jackets to allow fairy wings to spring out on cue.

“It looks like magic,” Ms Tyson said.

“Bright, colourful wings suddenly bursting out of very serious costumes - it’s one of those moments that gets a real reaction from the crowd.”

The show will be performed on Sunday, 18 May at 2pm at Upwey Baptist Community Church, complete with a proper afternoon tea

put on by the church community.

The event is entirely volunteer-run, and ticket sales go directly to a local charity chosen by the church - last year’s concert helped fund their weekly meal program.

Every person involved donates their time, including the singers, costumers and musical director Cecily Woodbury.

The choir is supported by Coonara Community House in Upper Ferntree Gully, which helps with insurance and admin.

For those who love music, costumes, and a good community afternoon out, this is one event not to miss.

“It’s a beautiful show, and it raises money for a great cause,” Ms Tyson said.

“There’s something really special about coming together for that.”

To book online, visit: www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1323701 or at the door on the day.

Upwey artist, Natasja van Wyk at her ‘Threads of Violence’ exhibition at The Memo, Healesville - using bold textiles to explore trauma, memory and tough conversations. (Cathy Ronalds)

Hijack Hot Zone: A domestic quilt echoes state road signs, warning of everyday violence. Drawing on South African danger zone symbols, it reframes public trauma as personal - stitched into memory and masked as safety.

Helen Ebbsworthy, whose hand-crafted creations have become a beloved feature of Singularity Choir’s annual Gilbert and Sullivan operettas. (Supplied)

L-R: David Woodberry as Lord Mountararat and Eric Thrane as Lord Tolloller in 2025 show.

SUSTAINABLE LIVING

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.

CharmingOff-GridLivingin aSereneLocation,NOBILLS!

Seton2 acresnearGembrook,Loftalongis acharmingA-frameWesternRedCedarhomeoffering sustainablelivingwithstyle.Solarpanels,batteries,andsmartphonemonitoringensurereliable,ecofriendlypower.Inside,enjoyopen-planlivingwithBlueGumtimberfloors,colonialwindows,woodfire heating,anda splitsystem.Thekitchenboaststimberbenchtops,gasstovetop,oven,anda walk-in pantry.Dineindoorsoralfrescoontheverandahorsunnypatio.Upstairshoststhreespacious bedrooms, apowderroom,and aseparateshower.Thepropertyfeatureslushgardens,veggie patches,chickencoop,animalpaddock,andshedsforeverypurpose.A doublecarport,four-car garage,andextrastoragecompletetheoffering.A blendofcomfort,charm,andsustainabilityina trulyidyllicsetting.

Solid &SpaciousFamilyHomeon aPrivateAcre! Nestledona privateacre,this3-bedroom,2-bathroomhomeofferstheperfectblendofspace &tranquillity.Thoughtfullypositionedatthecentreoftheblock& surroundedbynaturalbeauty, thishomeisdesignedforbothrelaxation &convenience.JustminutesfromCockatoomain street,CockatooPrimarySchool &easyfreewayaccess.Inside,2 expansivelivingareasprovide plentyofspace. Astunningbrickfeaturewallwith alargewoodheatercreatesa warm &inviting atmosphere.Thecentralkitchen,witha breakfastbar,flowsseamlesslyintotheliving/diningspaces. Largewindowsthroughoutframebreath-takingviewsofthelushsurroundings,fillingtheinteriorswith naturallight.Thehomefeatures asturdysteelframe,electricrollershutters &qualitycraftsmanship throughout.

APrivateCountryEscapewithBigViews& EvenBiggerPotential. This3bedroom,2bathroomhomeofferstheperfectbalanceofserenecountryliving &modern convenience. Adrivewayleadstoundercoverparking,completewithadjoiningstorageshed. Inside,polishedtimberfloors& naturallightseta warm &invitingtone.Theopendiningareaflows intothelounge,wherea slowcombustionwoodfire,s/scooling&GDHensurecomfortinevery season.Expansivewindowsshowcasethestunningruraloutlook.Thekitcheniswell-equipped, featuringabundantstorage,a cornerpantry &D/W.2 bedroomsincludeBIR,whiletheprivate masterretreatofferstruesanctuary. AgenerousWIRleadstoa spacioussuitewithbuilt-incabinetry &updatedensuite.Stepoutside& you’llfind aseriousbonus, ahuge9mx 9mgaragewithpower, plumbing &mezzaninelevel, ahigh-clearancecarportidealforcaravans/haystorage& 3.5kWsolar.

SpaciousCedarHomeon3,889sqm,WalktoTown& PrimarySchool. Nestledina peacefullocation,thisspaciouscedarhomesitsonnearlyanacre,offeringtheperfect balanceofcomfort &lifestyle.A sealeddrivewayleadstotheundercoverentrance,welcomingyou into awell-equippedkitchenfeaturinggenerousbenchspace,integratedovenwith agascooktop &largepantry.Overlookingtheopen-planlounge/diningarea,thisinvitingspaceiswarmedbya strikingopenfireplacewitha stonesurround,a splitsystem &GDHthroughout.Slidingdoorsopen to alargereardeck.ThemasterbedroomwithdoubleBIR,while 3additionalwell-sizedbedrooms, eachwithBIR. Acentrallylocatedfamilybathroomincludes aseparateshower& toilet. Aspacious deckextendsalongtherearofthehomeoverlookingthefullyfencedbackyard,idealforchildren& pets.A doublecarport& smallgardenshedcompletestheoutdoorspace.

225AmphlettAvenueGembrook

HOME FOCUS

A GRAND FAMILY SANCTUARY ON 18 ACRES

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.

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 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)

DOWN

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)

Red-hot Hawks maul Tigers

By Armin Richter FOOTBALL

Seniors

Since the Upwey-Tecoma football club formed in 1946, Monbulk have been their most played opponent. The Hawks met the Tigers for the 161st time on Saturday at Upwey, with the record standing at 64 wins, 94 losses and two draws leading into the match.

Both sides had a 1-2 record and needed a win to stay in touch with Wandin, Olinda, Woori Yallock and Healesville. After a tight opening term Monbulk established a 27 point lead by the main break. Playing their best match for the year they were able to combine slick ball movement with pressure on the opposition and a hard attack at the contest. A flurry of goals at the finish saw the Hawks triumph by 47 points, their biggest win at Upwey since a 51 point result in 2007. It was their third win in four years at the Chosen Avenue ground since Monbulk returned to the top Division. The ground is no longer the graveyard that it once was as Monbulk are now clear fifth.

Monbulk 17.13.115 def Upwey-Tecoma 10.8.68

• Best: Adam Banks, Lochlan Beecroft, Joel Wensley, Lachlan Sheppard, Ryan Burleigh, Josh Wentworth

• Goals: Joel Wensley 5, Lochlan Beecroft 4, Pat Barge 2, Bailey Rutherford 2, Ziggy Hatherley 2, Josh Wentworth 1, Declan Browne 1

Reserves

The unbeaten Upwey and Monbulk sides met to decide who would take the top position on the ladder and premiership favouritism. Upwey found too many avenues to goal and a gallant display by the Hawks was no match in the end as the Tigers won comfortably.

Monbulk 5.1.31 def by Upwey-Tecoma 13.9.87

• Best: Johnathon Hevern, Nicholas Heron, Coby Passingham, Ryan Gilbert, Dylan Werts, Jayden Spencer

• Goals: Nicholas Heron 2, Matthew James 1, Johnathon Hevern 1, Aaron Smith 1 Under 18s

Despite giving away some height and weight, the Monbulk Unders took the match right up to the Tigers. Early in the second term they had estab-

lished a 10 point lead but weren’t able to maintain the pressure and were eventually overrun but not disgraced.

Monbulk 3.3.21 def by Upwey-Tecoma 9.12.66

• Best: Brock Downey, William Hughson, Eamon Dawson, Finley Ede, Finn Horsfall, Ryder Koelewyn

• Goals: Cooper Palmer 1, Charlie Seamer 1, Finn Horsfall 1

NETBALL

A Grade

Monbulk and Upwey were two of the seven Division 1 teams that comprised the original netball competition 20 years ago in 2005. Upwey-Tecoma won the inaugural A Grade premiership with Monbulk claiming the 2006 flag, incidentally against the Tigers. The clubs had met 34 times leading up to Saturday’s clash, with the Tigers ahead 20-14. Upwey-Tecoma won 17 consecutive matches 2007-2016 although Monbulk had emerged victorious on the last nine occasions.

Sophie Stubbs, who debuted for Monbulk in 2011, played her 200th game for the Hawks. 190

of these games have been played in A Grade by the 2015 Best & Fairest, which is the club record in this grade. In a fiercely contested match the Tigers challenged the Hawks but Monbulk just had an edge in class and emerged victorious by nine goals in their tenth consecutive win against Upwey. The Hawks remain third while Peri Reid has opened up a lead of 46 amongst the goal shooters.

Monbulk 64 def Upwey 55

• Best: Paige Whitworth, Nicole Macdowell, Stephanie Ferguson

• Goals: Peri Reid 39, Stephanie Ferguson 24 B Grade

The longer the game went, the stronger Monbulk looked in B Grade. The ladder leading Hawks had a seven goal lead at half time but then outscored the Tigers 32 to 10 in the second half to come away with a resounding win. Jorja Wragg is leading the competition shooters in B Grade with 167 after four games.

Monbulk 57 def Upwey-Tecoma 28

• Best: Asha Jones, Dayna Walsham, Elizabeth Cutting

• Goals: Jorja Wragg 34, Dayna Walsham 20, Chloe Carmichael 3

C Grade

This match was to ebb and flow as Upwey led by seven goals at half time before the Hawks bounced back to tie the match at the last change of ends. The Tigers steadied to register their first win of the season while Monbulk dropped to seventh.

Monbulk 28 def by Upwey-Tecoma 31

• Best: Laura Del Biondo, Courtney Witt, Maddy Buckland

• Goals: Chloe Carmichael 21, Grace Sands 4, Maddy Buckland 3

D Grade

Monbulk proved more agile around the court to record their second win of the season and stay in touch with the leaders. The win was set up in a 9-4 second quarter as the rest of the match remained close on the scoreboard.

Monbulk 34 def Upwey-Tecoma 23

• Best: Macy Giling, Simone Beattie, Jamie Sands

• Goals: Jamie Sands 21, Macy Giling 13 Under 17s

It was a tough day at the office for the Under 17s as ladder leaders ROC White proved too strong for the last placed Hawks.

Monbulk 4 def by ROC White 35

• Best: Ella Flynn, Maddison Bedet, Isabelle Cross

• Goals: Ella Flynn 2, Maddison Bedet 1, Kaitlyn Summers 1 Under 15s

The ladder topping Monbulk Maroon had a bye while Monbulk Gold met ROC White at Officer. Both sides had a win each and it was ROC that started better. After quarter time however Monbulk came to the fore and scored a well deserved win by 8 goals. Eden Murphy heads the league goal shooting over Monbulk Maroon’s Isla Stubbs, who still has a game in hand. Monbulk 26 def ROC White 18

• Best: Amelia Magarry, Eden Murphy, Olivia Leonard

• Goals: Eden Murphy 16, Amelia Magarry 9, Sophie Pringle 1

Club upgrade brings Fevola to Belgrave for footy clinic

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Belgrave Junior Football Club was buzzing with excitement last week as AFL legend Brendan Fevola dropped by for a special footy clinic with the club’s U11s and U17s girls’ teams.

The clinic was part of a well-deserved reward for the club’s win in the “Club Upgrade” competition, supported by Monarch Painting and FOX FM.

The event was a huge hit, with kids and parents alike thrilled by Fevola’s presence on the field.

Fev, known for his larger-than-life personality both on and off the field, didn’t disappoint, running drills with the younger players and sharing his goal-kicking expertise with the older girls.

But it wasn’t just the training that had everyone talking — Fevola stayed around after the session, signing footies and taking photos, creating lasting memories for the players and their families.

“It was amazing,” the club’s president, Melania Serwylo said.

“Fev was fantastic, taking the time to interact with everyone long after the clinic ended. The kids were absolutely thrilled, and the vibe around the ground was fantastic. It felt like a real celebration.”

While Fevola’s visit was the highlight of the evening, the occasion also marked an important milestone for the club: a long-awaited ground upgrade.

Thanks to the competition win, the club’s facilities received a professional makeover, including freshly painted line markings and new logos that now proudly feature the junior club’s and sponsors’ branding.

This is the first significant upgrade to the

ground in years, and it’s a game-changer for both the players and the local community.

“The ground looks amazing now,” Ms Serwylo said.

“The professional line marking and the club logo make it feel so much more official. Our players, especially the girls, now have a ground that reflects how much they’ve grown. It’s a real source of pride for everyone involved.”

Since 2016, the club has gone from strength to strength, particularly with the rise of the girls’ teams, which have seen significant growth. This expansion has been vital in keeping the club going, especially after it faced the possibility of folding just a few years ago.

“Our growth has been incredible,” Ms Serwylo said.

“It’s been a team effort from everyone - from the committee and our supporters to the players themselves. The community here in Belgrave has been so supportive, and it’s made a huge difference. We couldn’t have done it without them.”

The club’s success wouldn’t have been pos-

sible without the support of sponsors like Monarch Painting and FOX FM.

Tim Hogan from Monarch Painting spoke about the company’s involvement in the upgrade, emphasising the importance of supporting local community projects.

“We love the idea of nurturing growth from the ground up,” Mr Hogan said.

“It’s been a privilege to help the Belgrave Junior Football Club with their field upgrade, and it’s been great to see the community come together around the event. Fevola’s clinic was the cherry on top.”

The event wrapped up with a classic community barbecue, where players and families gathered to share a meal and reflect on what had been an unforgettable evening.

For the Belgrave community, this event wasn’t just about a footy clinic with an AFL legend - it was a reminder of the importance of community, pride, and the power of grassroots sport.

“It shows our players that they are valued,” Ms Serwylo said.

“This kind of recognition is so important. It encourages them to keep chasing their dreams and to know they belong in this game.”

For the young girls of Belgrave Junior Football Club, having their contributions recognised and celebrated was a message loud and clear - they have a vital place in the game, and their passion for footy matters.

Sophie Stubbs (second from right) celebrates her milestone 200th game with her Monbulk A Grade teammates. (Supplied)

U17 girls’ coach Marcus shares a moment with AFL legend Brendan Fevola after a successful training clinic at Belgrave Junior Football Club.

Lyla picks up new footy tricks from AFL legend Brendan Fevola during the clinic at Belgrave Junior Football Club.

Fevola’s Footy Clinic and ground makeover give Belgrave Juniors a major boost, energising players and the community.

They are successful in local business... but what do our Tip-Stars know about Footy? Follow them every week and give them the feedback they deserve...

FOOTY TIPSTERS

Q&A

Mick Dolphin

1. What made you barrack for the AFL team you follow today?

Nanna barracked for Collingwood and she loved the footy, taking me to my first game – VFA Preston v’s someone. From then on it was always Collingwood.

2. What’s your favourite way to spend a weekend?

Chilling out on the deck, enjoying the view, the animals and gardening, with my family nearby.

3. Do you enjoy what you do for a living?

I love it, Helping people achieve their dreams or get out of a challenging situation, I love the trust people put in me to help them navigate the change in life they are undertaking.

4. What’s your favourite type of cuisine?

I really like all good quality food

5. What are 3 words that describe you best?

Dedicated, Consistent, Reliable

6. When you were little, what did you think you were going to be?

A beach bum by the time I was 30 

7. Who would you like to have dinner with and why (could be anyone, dead or alive)?

Don Bradman, I love cricket and I’d love to know his philosophy on the game but also what drove him to be so far and above the best cricketer ever, and his mindset around this.

8. What advice would you offer to your younger self?

Be present in the moment more