Mail - Upper Yarra Star Mail - 20th May 2025

Services

join to train

A large scale multi-agency emergency services exercise took place at Wesburn Park on Thursday 8 May to prepare for Warburton Mountain Bike Destination project’s opening mid to late July.

Known as Exercise Trailblazer, members from the SES, Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria and Yarra Ranges Council were invited and some CFA representatives also attended the exercise.

It was lead by the Victoria Police and simulated a real life scenario where emergency services had to locate and rescue mountain bike rider.

A VICSES spokesperson said the exercise was a “valuable opportunity” for members to further their ability to perform rescues in the Yarra Ranges.

“VICSES volunteers are passionate about, and dedicated to, improving their search and rescue capability, and multiagency training scenarios such as Exercise Trailblazer are a valuable opportunity for members to gain vital experience working alongside first responder partners in preparation for a real-life emergency.”

Read more on page 5

CCTV cost review

By Dongyun Kwon

Healesville resident Penelle brought up the issue of the need for ongoing funding for the CCTV system again at the latest council meeting on Tuesday 13 May.

Penelle was the person who inspired the Star Mail crew to conduct a six-week Capturing the

Yarra Ranges campaign earlier this year.

At the meeting, Penelle requested that Yarra Ranges Council provide the funding for the auditing, replacement and ongoing maintenance of the existing CCTV cameras in Healesville, to ensure the Healesville community and traders can feel a stronger sense of security and safety, with

140 valid signatures.

Ryrie Ward councillor Fiona McAllister supported the petition submitted by Penelle.

“If you’re going to fund infrastructure like (installing CCTV cameras), you absolutely have to fund maintenance. It’s not fair to let it sit with the community, and then it disappears into a non-

maintained ground that leaves the community feeling unsafe,” she said.

Yarra Ranges Council (YRC) will investigate funding the auditing, replacement and ongoing maintenance of existing CCTV cameras in Healesville.

Turn to page 6 for more

Special rate policy updated

By Callum Ludwig

Yarra Ranges Council has refreshed its Special Rate and Charge Scheme policy at the Tuesday 13 May council meeting.

Special charges have become more important for local residents since the Roads for Community funding was slashed in 2022.

Notable changes in the policy are an increase in the contribution ceiling for landowners and factoring in a $18,888,059 boost split over five years from 2024-2029, thanks to grants from the Federal Roads to Recovery program.

Monbulk resident Jordan Brown attended the meeting to speak to the policy and said he is in favour of the increase in the ceiling and recognises that costs have risen, but had a different concern.

“One thing I have noted in the policy is that it is somewhat mute on the aspect of road safety when assessing particular roads in terms of funding to have improvements on unsealed roads,” he said.

“Where I live in Monbulk, improvements to the roads in the area with this policy have improved drainage and other things in the area but it’s more properties or roads that fall outside of built up areas that are less impacted by this policy due to the prohibitive costs borne by the residents,”

“It would seem that there would be a need for greater access to funding from other stakeholders outside the Roads to Recovery program from the federal government in order to see greater improvements on the outskirts to the Yarra Ranges.”

Mr Brown also raised a question as to whether speed limits, particularly on unsigned roads where the limit is 100km/h, are considered in prioritising road projects, with Ryrie Ward Councillor Fiona McAllister putting this to question to the Director for Built Environment and Infrastructure Hjalmar Philipp and Manager of Infrastructure Services Kim O’Connor.

“Road safety is absolutely a priority and for example, the Special Charges Scheme can consider things like speed and some other treatments as part of the package, so the short answer is yes,” Mr Philipp said.

We also look at a lot of data in terms of crash stats and other reports on those particular roads as well so it’s not just one case by case scenario, we look at the details,” Mr O’Connor said.

“In particular there’s a lot of roads like connector roads where we have advocated for funding over and above some of the special charge scheme processes that we’ve had, so we’ve looked at agrilinks, to emergency management roads or similar roads that have been presented tonight, so it’s all part of what we can seal.”

The cap on landowner contributions has been

set at $15,500 per Development Unit since 2016, which was an increase from the base $10,000 when it was established in 2000.

To come to the decision to raise to a new cap, set at $20,000, Council considered Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation, which has risen about 16 per cent over 6 years, increases in construction cost measured by Producer Price Index for Road Construction which is considered to be about 22 per cent over 6 years and a review of Council’s tendering process which has found an increase from an average of $1100 per lineal metres in 2019 for an urban construction to between $1350 to $1900 per lineal metres by 2024.

Further questions were put to Mr Philipp about how visibility of the policy could be improved by Cr McAllister as well as why community consultation on the policy wasn’t done, which was a question from a community member communicated by Chirnside Ward Councillor and Deputy Mayor Richard Higgins.

Mr Phillipp said he thinks the easy answer to the questions of visibility is in the content on that website that explains what the scope of the policy is.

“As we talk about road improvements in the

policy, we can potentially include an insertion that might expand on that but I think the easier approach is to keep the road improvements in the policy and add some words around when we communicate what this is and how this could be accessed,” he said.

“It’s effectively a refresh of the existing policy, but importantly, the policy is simply explaining how the legislation will be implemented for Council, so putting words around Section 163 of the Act, which prescribes what Council must do in relation to administering special charges and schemes, with two additions that Council include on top of the Act, which is the ceiling, which we’ve spoken about, and also the reference to greater than 50 per cent level of support to proceed, that’s to really help positive engagement around anything we do around special charge schemes and finally, I’d note that every single scheme is subject to consultation under the Act in any case, so it goes through a legislative process to consult.”

Mr Philipp also addressed a typo in the ‘Financial Analysis’ section of the policy which states the uplift is permanent, when it should be over the span of five years.

Cr McAllister moved the motion and said the

special charges scheme is of huge interest to the community.

“As we refresh and in some ways, reinstate it following shifts in funding, which we’ve all spoken about probably very frequently, this is important, we know roads are very front of mind for our community, every kind of survey and poll and conversation reminds us of this,” she said.

“It’s important that we review it, particularly looking at financial impacts on community, and trying to build enough flex into it, and I know we’ve all had a lot of conversations about this with enough specificity, but enough legs that recognising that there are circumstances where council needs to lean in.”

“It’s not a short journey, intentional pun, but a really important one because in Yarra Ranges we have hundreds of kilometres of road, many of which are unsealed and whilst we would love to have the money to be able to seal them all, or the ones that community want us to seal, we don’t and this is a critical governance document that ensures there is transparency and a very robust process that’s followed.”

Councillor Gareth Ward seconded the motion and it was carried unanimously.

Councils sound alarm on critical expiring funding program

With the Victorian budget set to be released on Tuesday 20 May, Outer Melbourne Councils (OMC) is highlighting a critical funding program that needs to be preserved and expanded.

The Growing Suburbs Fund (GSF) has contributed $440 million to “critical local infrastructure” in Melbourne’s “diverse and fast-growing outer suburbs” since its establishment in 2015, according to the government.

It’s led to the delivery of dozens of community projects across the outer ring of Melbourne’s municipalities including Cardinia, Casey, Hume, Melton, Mitchell, Mornington Peninsula, Nillumbik, Whittlesea, Wyndham and Yarra Ranges.

In the Yarra Ranges this includes projects like the Chirnside Urban Park, Wesburn Pump Track, Queens Park playspace, Morrison Reserve Youth Activation, Yarra Valley Trail, Monbulk Recreation Reserve Skate and Scooter Park, Warburton Mountain Bike Destination and The Ridgewalk (ngurrak barring).

By any public policy standard, the Growing Suburbs Fund is a well-designed and effective community infrastructure delivery program. It meets a clear need, it leverages co-investment, it provides tangible outcomes for communities and has a very positive benefit-cost ratio.

Councils have used this fund to develop and improve local parks, build playgrounds, upgrade community centres, install skate parks, and make public toilets more accessible.

The fund was topped up by $5 million last year — but no funding has been allocated for future years.

“Meeting the needs of Melbourne’s growing outer suburbs is not a year-to-year proposition,” OMC spokesperson and Cardinia Mayor

Jack Kowarzick said.

“$5 million, even leveraged with co-investment from councils, doesn’t go far across the great swathe of Melbourne’s outer suburbs.

“The ‘big build’ might steal the spotlight, but building better neighbourhoods helps us where we live.”

OMC would like to see the fund retained and increased, with funding guaranteed over subsequent years to support the growth and liveability of the outer suburbs.

“Single year extensions and small ‘drip funding’ top-ups don’t provide the certainty our suburbs need.”

“We need to see this program retained and extended over the long term.”

Yarra Ranges Council has updated its Special Rate and Charge Scheme Policy. (File: 312687)

Projects likes the Queens Park playground were funded through the Growing Suburbs Program. (File)

Projects likes the Wesburn Pump Track were funded through the Growing Suburbs Program. (Supplied)

Warby Trail trashed

By Oliver Winn

The Warburton Trail was trashed by vandals recently which resulted in thousands of dollars worth of damages.

Upper Yarra resident Frank (who asked his last name not be used) was riding on the popular bike track on 1 May when he came across several gateposts ripped out of the ground in different locations.

Frank said whoever committed the acts of vandalism were “deadbeats” and that the damage was disappointing to see.

“I was riding along the track and some deadbeat has ripped all the posts out where the gates are, so it’s just some blatant vandalism,” Frank said.

The destroyed gateposts were found at Healesville Kooweerup Road, Woori Yallock, the east end of Woori Yallock Station and Sunnyside Road Seville East.

Frank visited the Yarra Ranges Council Civic Centre to report the vandalism to try and bring some attention to it.

A council spokesperson said the damages would cost the council “several thousand dollars” worth in repairs.

“We’re extremely disappointed that several fences have been damaged along the Warburton Trail recently. Repairs are underway on the fences, and are expected to cost several thousand dollars.”

Frank said the size of the gateposts and the extent of the damage would’ve required a powerful tool of some sort.

“They must have had some sort of fairly powerful implement because when they snapped the post off, the post was about 8 inches or 200 mil square, and they just snapped it off and it just splintered up out of the ground.”

“They couldn’t have done it manually, so whatever they’ve used, it would’ve had to have been some sort of implement or a vehicle to do that,” Frank said. The council said it urged those with informa-

tion to contact crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.

“We encourage anyone with information about the damage to contact Victoria Police or Crime Stoppers Victoria,” the council spokesperson said.

E-scooters hit veteran and dog nine times

By Dongyun Kwon

Healeville resident Shane Porter’s dog Moji was hit by an e-scooter again on Tuesday 13 May.

Mr Porter said it was the same e-scooter rider who has hit them three times.

“(A Senior Constable at Healseville Police) said to me a month ago, if I get any photos of this e-scooter rider, he would chase it up,” he said.

“I’ve sent six photos of the person only two or three feet away from me, with a full face, to (the police officer). And after being hit (on Tuesday), I sent another photo off to him.

“I ended up catching up with him (on Tuesday) down at the police station, and he’s now stated they can’t do anything unless they see the incident happen.”

It was the ninth time Mr Porter and Moji were hit by e-scooters on footpaths in Healesville.

Mr Porter served in the Royal Australian Army for nine years, and he adopted a service dog, Moji, four years ago because of PTSD and

two cerebral haemorrhoids he’s got from the military service.

Mr Porter said Moji is a five year old golden labrador.

“She is my service dog, so she wears her red jacket with a service dog written all over it. I walk around town every day in Healesville,” he said.

“E-scooters are not allowed on footpaths. E-scooters are worse (than push bikes or skateboards) because you can’t hear them, and the majority of them don’t wear a helmet.”

E-scooter riders must be aged 16 or over, wear a helmet, ride at no more than 20 km/h, ride on shared-use paths, bicycle paths or roads with a speed limit of up to 60 km/h, use flashing or steady front and rear lights, if riding at night or in low light, park responsibly in a location that does not disrupt pedestrians or pose a safety hazard, and keep to approved areas if using a hired e-scooter.

Healesville Police confirmed that they are investigating the incident.

IN BRIEF

Heated Elbow Wrap recall

Heated Elbow Wrap Kmart Australia Ltd has been recalled due to risk of burns injuries to the skin, with increased risk for heat-sensitive customers. The elbow wrap can overheat if it is positioned incorrectly or it is wrapped around too tight on the elbow.

The product was sold through Kmart and Target stores and online.

What consumers should do:

1. Stop using the product immediately.

2. Return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.

3. Contact the store of purchase if you are unable to return the product to the store.

4. Tell us if you have sold or gifted the product to another person.

Contact:

Kmart

• Call: 1800 124 125, Monday to Friday, 7am to 6pm.

• Online: kmart.com.au/contact-us/

Target

• Call: 1300 753 567, Monday to Friday, 9am7pm; Saturday 9am-5pm.

• Online: target.com.au/help/contact-us

Missing dog, Saffy

Saffy went missing from the Coldstream area last week and may now be in or around Yarra Glen. Sadly, there have been no confirmed sightings since 13 May, and we are growing increasingly worried about her safety.

We are working closely with search teams and volunteers, and have set scent lures in a number of areas.

We’ve now been advised to focus some of our search toward Yarra Glen, so we are reaching out to the community there in the hope someone may have seen her or can help us spread the word. Saffy is a small grey and white dog, timid in nature, and may be moving through residential or bushland areas.

We are kindly asking locals to check their properties, garages, and surrounding land in case she’s hiding or has taken shelter.

Please do not approach or call out to her, as she is very frightened and may run further. If sighted, call us immediately on 0421 995 941. Any sighting, no matter how small, could help bring her home.

We are so deeply grateful for all the support and kindness we’ve already received and truly hope your team might be able to help us one more time by sharing this again.

With heartfelt thanks, Hannah

Saffy is a small grey and white dog. (Supplied)

Shane Porter with his service dog Moji. (Supplied)

Gateposts ripped out of the ground at Healesville-Kooweerup Road, Woori Yallock. (Supplied)

State memorial for Dr Race Mathews

A State Memorial Service to celebrate the life of The Honourable Dr Race Mathews will be held at 11.30 am on Friday 23 May at the Arts Centre Melbourne, The Leaper Family Pavilion.

Race Mathews lived a rich and fulfilling life as a family man and politician who served in all three levels of government (local, state, federal), academic, author, social reformer, and champion of the arts.

Premier Jacinta Allan said Race Mathews has left an incredible legacy and will be remembered for his kindness, passion for social justice and fairness, both inside and outside of his political career.

“Race helped shape the early design of Medibank – laying the groundwork for Medicare and helping build a health system that treated care as a right, not a privilege,” Premier Allan said.

Joining the Labor Party in 1956, he went on to serve as Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Community Services.

During his time as Principal Private Secretary to former Prime Minister Gough Whitlam, he most notably contributed to the early design for what would later become Medicare – marking the beginning of a transformative healthcare system for Australians.

As a Minister, Race strengthened child protection, led reforms in gun control, modernised Victoria Police and improved emergency management responses following the 1983 Ash Wednesday bushfires.

Race also left a remarkable legacy promoting accessibility in Victoria’s arts and cultural scene. He served on the boards of the Melbourne Recital Centre and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), and helped establish the Arts Centre and the Melbourne Writers’ Festival.

The State Memorial will be open to the public, and for those unable to attend, the Service will be live streamed.

At the request of the Mathews family and in lieu of flowers, tributes may be made in the form of a contribution to Alzheimer’s Research Australia or The Australian Fabian Society. To donate, please visit alzheimersresearch.org.au or fabians.org.au.

Further details about how to attend or how to view the live stream will be shared in due course, with the most up to date information available at vic.gov.au/RaceMathews

Big news for community groups in tiny towns

First power as installation begins for Underwood first solar

By Callum Ludwig

Progress is underway to bring power to the property in Yarra Junction of Alice Underwood and her mum. Queenslander and retired electrician Richard Lukoszek has made the journey down from up north and been working diligently for the last two weeks.

Mr Lukozszek plans to continue working for another three to four weeks, with a total of four arrays of solar panels to be installed on the property. The first solar panels are all ready up and running and delivering the first electricity to the house in Alice’s lifetime, including powering the first 240 volt electric light set up.

Mr Lukoszek has CEC (Clean Energy Council) accreditation, 45 years of experience in mining and heavy industry and spent the last 13 years in the renewable industry designing and installing off-grid battery storage systems, domestic and commercial solar systems and large-scale solar farms in New South Wales and Queensland. Mostly used in remote locations with little to no chance of ever getting connection to the energy grid, the off-grid system at the Underwood house will store power in batteries onsite. Look out for the next update in the Star Mail in the coming weeks once the entire installation is complete.

Former Casey MP Race Mathews died on 5 May at the age of 90. (Iola Mathews)

Toolangi Public Recreation Reserve and Camping Reserve will receive $16,000 for Toolangi cricket pitch refurbishment, and Glenburn Hall and Progress Association Inc will receive over $18,000 for community hub

L-R: Richard Lukoszek and Alice Underwood. (Supplied)

Training for bike trail rescues

By Oliver Winn

Multiple emergency service agencies gathered at Wesburn Park on Thursday 8 May for a large-scale multi-agency training exercise designed specifically for the inevitable increase in callouts for the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination (WMBD) project,

The 70-person strong exercise simulated a scenario where emergency crews had to rescue an injured mountain bike rider and focused on search coordination between agencies.

A VICSES spokesperson said the exercise was a “valuable opportunity” for members to further their ability to perform rescues in the Yarra Ranges.

“VICSES volunteers are passionate about, and dedicated to, improving their search and rescue capability, and multi-agency training scenarios such as Exercise Trailblazer are a valuable opportunity for members to gain vital experience working alongside first responder partners in preparation for a real-life emergency.”

While local members from the SES, Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria and Yarra Ranges Council were invited to the exercise, the Star Mail can confirm some local CFA brigades were not invited to the exercise.

This is despite the fact that local CFA brigades had been paged to assist SES for rescues at the same location as the training exercise in the past.

But, Victoria Police’s focus for this exercise

By Oliver Winn

RSPCA Victoria reported a surge of 800 horse-related animal cruelty reports as some owners failed to provide enough food amid an unusually dry 12 month period.

A report from the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) showed severe rainfall deficiencies in the Yarra Ranges and in the south east areas in the past 12 months, which had caused available feed to become increasingly scarce.

RSPCA Victoria chief inspector Michelle Green said this was why the number of horses reported had skyrocketed and had strained the RSPCA’s resources as a result.

“This financial year alone we’ve seen a 53% increase in the number of horses involved in animal cruelty reports.”

“We have already taken in 183 horses, with more than 60 horses still in our care, with the majority at various agistments across the state due to the limited capacity at our shelter,” Ms Green said.

But Upper Yarra Pony Club district commissioner Anita Prowse said not all these reports were due to neglectful and cruel owners - the cost of living meant some owners couldn’t afford to feed their horses.

“There’s people who genuinely know that they can’t afford their horse, so they surrender them and do the right thing, but then you also get the horrible people who know what they’re doing is wrong but they keep doing it anyway,” Ms Prowse said.

The “horrible people”, Ms Prowse said, are

was on search coordination rather than the technical aspects of high angle rescues, a manoeuvre CFA brigades specialise in due its involvement in rescuing patients from high ground.

This often takes place in building fire rescues where the access point to rescue a patient is on a steep angle, such as a patient stuck in a lift or scaffolding during a building fire.

But CFA brigades in the Yarra Ranges also perform this rescue when patients are stuck high in trees or deep in trenches, ruts and gullies.

Some CFA representatives were involved in the exercise, however they weren’t from local brigades and were in control of evaluating how the exercise went.

“Early analysis from CFA has indicated that the exercise met the objectives and has provided emergency services and the WMBD council project team with key discoveries on access and movement within the trails, effective tasking of agencies and the value of local knowledge from the SES volunteers,” a CFA spokesperson said.

The first stages of the Yarra Ranges Council’s WMBD project will open up later in 2025 and is expected to draw thousands of cyclists to the area.

But, an increase in WMBD trail callouts is also likely, and Yarra Ranges Council director of communities Leanne Hurst said the exercise would test emergency management.

“The Warburton Mountain Bike Destination Emergency Planning Committee identified a need to strengthen response capabilities and test

the emergency management plan for the trails.”

“The event was a success - the agencies collaborated well, with valuable learnings to take away, and a deeper familiarity with the trails,” Ms Hurst said.

Victoria Police emergency management inspector Guinevere Cleminson said mountain bike riders were urged to take simple steps which would help emergency services locate them in an emergency situation.

“We’re encouraging riders to take simple steps that could make a big difference in an emergency - always let someone know your planned route, return time, and download apps like Emergency Plus to help emergency services pinpoint your

the ones RSPCA’s inspectors - those responsible for protecting animals from cruelty - should target.

But a lack of legal authority, funding and resources for the RSPCA meant culprits often got away with neglecting their horses.

“Adding to the challenge of investigations is people expecting immediate seizure of animals which is not always an option, whether it be for the animal’s own health, or because despite the conditions of the animals, under the current legislation there is no legal basis for us to seize,”

Ms Green said.

But Ms Prowse claimed RSPCA inspectors overlooked the actual animal abusing culprits and targeted those whose horses didn’t look “a million bucks” even if the owner was providing appropriate care.

“They’re just giving the wrong people a hard time, and that’s where they get a bad name,” Ms Prowse said.

According to a media release on RSPCA Victoria website, most animal cruelty cases investigated by RSPCA inspectors involved helping owners meet their horse’s needs and providing education.

“We understand it can be distressing to have an animal cruelty report investigated; however, our Inspectors focus is always on the wellbeing of the animals and, in the majority of cases, helping animal owners meet their pet’s needs.”

With only 28 inspectors to investigate more than 10,000 cruelty reports across the state, the RSPCA’s enforcement arm is severely limited and relies on community donations for it to

run.

The RSPCA have called upon the government to increase its annual funding, as the $2.3 million directed toward inspectorate costs only covered 21 per cent of the $10.8 million forecast for this financial year.

Then there’s the well intentioned yet financially limited horse owners who make up the rest of the animal cruelty cases.

According to Ms Prowse, the price of hay had already risen from $120 at the start of the year to $200, and she predicted the price to rise another $150 by August if the dry spell continued.

Luckily, the BoM’s climate outlook for June to August anticipated that rainfall was likely to be above average.

The State Government’s On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grant Program financially assists farmers struggling with drought, however the Yarra Ranges isn’t included in the eligible municipalities.

These financial constraints, alongside the controversial Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund’s (ESVF) 150 per cent rate hikes for farmers, have squeezed what’s left of horse owner’s finances.

Despite this, Ms Prowse believed that horse owners who only buy “fancy” pellets advertised by influencers don’t get to use financial constraints as an excuse for not being able to feed their horses.

“[Horse owners] need to be exploring more options. They’re not realising that everything’s not going to be perfect and your feeding regime

might have to change a lot, but if it’s going to keep your horse healthier and in good condition over this period of time, well you’ve got to be adaptable to those kinds of things.”

“Obviously within reason, you don’t want to be feeding them things that are going to be harmful to them. What I mean is there are a lot of options out there that people aren’t realising.”

She also pushed for horse owners to approach other cases of horse neglect with more empathy rather than immediately condemning owners if their horses looked unhealthy.

“Like I said - not everybody is doing this. You don’t want people to have a really bad name because they’re struggling now. You want them to be able to reach out to people and look for answers rather than people condemning them all the time.”

Since the dry spell in the Yarra Ranges hasn’t been as bad as other areas such as Gippsland or South Australia, Ms Prowse said horse owners had to have exhausted all possible ways to feed their horses before they could blame their finances.

She pointed to resources such as Agriculture Victoria’s land and pasture management page, which offers information on farmers improving their pastures.

To learn more about managing their pastures visit: agriculture.vic.gov.au/farm-management/land-and-pasture-management

Anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals with first-hand information is urged to make a report to RSPCA Victoria at rspcavic. org/cruelty-report or by calling 03 9224 2222.

location in the case of an emergency,” Ms Cleminson said. An evaluation of the exercise will be delivered by the CFA at the end of the month.

70 members from multiple emergency response agencies took part in the exercise. (Shaun Caulfield)

Victoria Police and the SES worked alongside each other to locate the patient. (Shaun Caulfield)

The exercise simulated a real life emergency response situation likely to occur when the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination project finishes. (Shaun Caulfield)

Review gives hope for CCTV

By Dongyun Kwon

Yarra Ranges Council (YRC) is going to investigate funding the auditing, replacement and ongoing maintenance of existing CCTV cameras in Healesville.

Healesville resident Penelle walked through the Star Mail door with a petition in hand in December 2024 to raise the need for action to maintain the CCTV system in Healesville, installed through funding from the Federal Government.

It inspired the Star Mail crew to conduct a sixweek Capturing the Yarra Ranges campaign earlier this year, which ended up getting a response from YRC, saying the council couldn’t fund the CCTV network.

Despite the frustrating response, the Healesville resident didn’t give up the hope of making the community safe.

Penelle brought up the issue again to the councillors at the latest council meeting on Tuesday 13 May.

She requested that YRC provide the funding for the auditing, replacement and ongoing maintenance of the existing CCTV cameras in Healesville, to ensure the Healesville community and traders can feel a stronger sense of security and safety, with 140 valid signatures.

At the meeting, Penelle said when talking to other members of the community and traders, she found that she wasn’t the only one who needed well-operating CCTV cameras.

“The traders were desperately in need of extra support for their businesses,” she said.

“I’m feeling quite nervous talking about this, because it’s been a little bit of a complex situation, given people want their privacy as well. This is a very small community, and people want to feel safe here.

“We’ve always felt safe here, but there is a change in policing, there’s a change in laws, there’s a change in the community. There are so many different changes here, and we need the extra support. We need these cameras out here to feel safe.”

Cr McAllister said it’s an ongoing issue, and the council’s position is absolutely to support community safety, and to try and find a more universal model for ongoing funding.

“What’s playing out at the moment for communities is not great, and whilst it’s reassuring that the local government has been looking to fund that, the next steps for this one are trickier.

Ryrie Ward councillor Fiona McAllister supported the petition submitted by Penelle to get funding for the maintenance of the CCTV network.

“Funding is often given for CCTV cameras to be installed in our communities, with the onus or the burden on the community to maintain them, and the funding typically comes from the Federal Government,” she said.

“If you’re going to fund infrastructure like this, you absolutely have to fund maintenance. It’s not fair to let it sit with the community, and then it disappears into a non-maintained ground that leaves the community feeling unsafe.”

Yarra Ranges Council endorses 2026 Annual Grant Guide

By Dongyun Kwon

Yarra Ranges councillors discussed the guidelines for the 2026 Annual Grant, which will be open for application on 2 June, closing mid-July.

Each year, Yarra Ranges Council (YRC) offers an Annual Grants program to not-for-profit community groups and artists.

These grants provide funds for community-led projects which build stronger communities.

The council meeting report recommended minor changes to the Monthly Grants, consolidating two separate budgets into one program that supports vibrant and connected communities, with grants for not-for-profit traders incorporated into that program.

The report sought YRC’s endorsement of the 2026 Annual Grant Guide, and the draft budget allocation in the 2025-26 financial year of $575,000 for the Annual Grants and $150,000 for the Monthly Grant program.

Wendy Wright was a registered speaker in objection to the recommended guidelines.

Ms Wright said the grant guidelines should be updated to cover certain topics in more detail for community trust, given its significance as an investment of ratepayers’ money.

“There are a number of topics I feel need to be covered better, or at least covered in the guide that don’t seem to be covered,” she said.

“Some of those things are, ‘Are grant applications and acquittal reports available to the public?’, and ‘If so, where are they published?’, ‘Are the funds that grant recipients receive provided up front or on a reimbursement basis, or is it different on a case-by-case basis?’, ‘What are the acquittal requirements in terms of timing and content?’, ‘What are the obligations on grant recipients who fail to provide an acquittal in the required timeframe?’, and ‘What are the implications if a grant recipient fails to implement their proposal, either by perhaps advising council that they are no longer proceeding, or just simply by omission of not proceeding, and are the funds returned to the program and the new recipient identified?’”

Cr Fiona McAllister said having them in the guide is a good suggestion from a transparency and reassurance perspective.

“We do get groups that can’t deliver or all of those scenarios, I’ve probably heard stories from communities,” she said

Cr Mitch Mazzarella also agreed with Ms Wright.

“I do agree with what Ms Wright has said in

regards to having these important points about what happens if a community group doesn’t do this and have that in the guide,” he said.

“I think that’s the important thing that probably needs to be put into the document,” he said.

Despite feeling the need for clear indications for the points that Ms Wright raised, councillors passed the motion unanimously.

Cr Peter Mcilwain moved the motion as recommended in the council meeting report.

He said, as a practising artist, he’s received a number of grants from the council, and he’s witnessed, first-hand, the benefits that the grants bring to the community.

“The economic impact that we get from these grants far outweighs the expenditure by many factors,” he said.

“We are from a relatively small expenditure, we’re able to mobilise a very large part of the population to achieve all kinds of outcomes, not just artistic but social engagement.

“We are able to achieve many more times what we spend, so I thoroughly support the motion.”

Seconder Cr McAllister said she was pleased to see a 15 per cent increase in the grant bucket.

“I think all of us know of community groups that have done pretty phenomenal things with incredibly small amounts of money, and it can support groups to stay viable although these grants are typically for a specific project,” she said.

“As a direct example, we have a trader group now in Healesville, which we were really able to hit the ground running. And I think they’ve just signed up their 100th trader member.

“So again, a really practical example of not huge amounts of money, less than $10,000 that actually just generates such incredible community activity.

“I will continue to keep pushing for us to put more money in our grants budget, because I do think we get a huge return on investment for the community in often simple and very surprising

ways.”

Closing the motion, Cr Mcilwain advised to put all the relevant information in the grant guideline document.

“When you receive a grant, there is an extensive agreement document that grantees go through, and I just would like to counsel that putting all of that information in a grant document,” he said.

“The grant guideline document is somewhat onerous, and I’m not entirely sure how we can do that practically, because there are many different streams of grant funding, and to be able to put those requirements in any meaningful way is not a simple task.

“So I think that it is useful to have indications as to the responsibilities of the grantees, and I’m certainly happy to support putting that into the guidelines, but I think a more wide-ranging explanation of that needs to be at the grant agreement level.”

Healesville resident Penelle raised the need for action to maintain the CCTV system in Healesville to Yarra Ranges councillors. (Unsplash)

Yarra Ranges councillors endorsed the 2026 Annual Grant Guide. (File)

New Yarra Junction vision

By Oliver Winn

The Yarra Ranges Council delivered its vision for Yarra Junction’s future at the 13 May council meeting with the Yarra Junction Place Plan.

The plan, which was approved unanimously at the meeting, identified the long term goals for the township and will guide future projects by the council.

Yarra Ranges Council mayor Jim Child said the outcome of the community engagement process for the Yarra Junction Place Plan was wonderful and it reflected how the plan would operate in the future.

“So when you actually read the work and also the engagement piece that was done, it shows what a real collaborative innovation and continuous improvement process that this was.”

“But broadly it really shows what this is going to be going into the future, and supported by this place plan, and ultimately, a township design framework as well,” Cr Child said.

The Yarra Junction Place Plan doesn’t outline any specific projects that would take place but rather acts as a guide for when the council undertakes works in the future.

It also doesn’t mean any funding has been allocated, and opportunities to deliver projects for Yarra Junction may arise at different stages depending on the resources available.

Five priority areas for Yarra Junction were identified in the plan: culture and character, transport and accessibility, community infrastructure, partnerships and business and employment opportunities.

After a month of community consultation from August to September last year, the feedback was adopted and added to the report.

The council engaged the community through interviews, surveys, workshops, popup stalls and social media which saw over 400 people participate in consultation directly.

Cr Child said the town was a very import-

ant centre for the Yarra Ranges which highlighted the plan’s importance in guiding Yarra Junction’s future.

Cr Peter Mcilwain said the plan was extremely well implemented as it had a wide scope of information on the township.

“The scope of information that’s been brought into the plan gives us not just the plan for Yarra Junction, but it also gives us a great snapshot of the community and the community’s needs in that location,” Cr Mcilwain said. “It is a primary strategic location within the

valley, and I think it highlights the impact that council can have on communities, particularly in great social outcomes, but as well as that, the economic benefits that will come to the communities in that area.”

The Yarra Junction Place Plan outlines the plan for the town’s future. (Stewart Chambers: 379657)

THEDISCOVER YOURCOUNTRY SIDE BIT

Bridging for reconciliation

By Dongyun Kwon

The theme of National Reconciliation Week this year is Bridging Now to Next.

Yarra Ranges Council also invited First Nations guests to The Memo, Healesville, to join the national movement to look ahead and continue the push forward as past lessons guide Australians.

The Yarra Ranges National Reconciliation Week event will be held from 10am to 1pm on Tuesday 27 May.

Star Mail interviewed two out of four guests who will share their stories and performances with the audience at the event.

Ash Dargan is a Larrakia musician and storyteller from Darwin, Northern Territory, who is one of Australia’s premier performers and recording artists on the yidaki (didgeridoo).

Professor Richard J Frankland is an elder and Gunditjmara man, whose multi-faceted career spans justice, arts, and advocacy.

Mr Dargon said he’s been playing the yidaki for around 35 years as a storyteller and also in different bands.

“I used to tour with Coloured Stone and have done a lot of different presentations around the country, and I still do,” he said.

“I was also part of a wonderful collection of artists coming along to support Richard Franklin’s album, Discovering Leerpeen Mara, and we’ve done a few concerts together as well. So this is two of the artists from that album performing together again.

“I’m looking forward to this duo, this opportunity to play again together, and to revisit some of those songs which have powerful messages for reconciliation and also for where Australia, as a country, is currently at.”

Prof Frankland said he’s honoured to support the event.

“When you have art, you have voice, and with voice, you have a semblance of freedom, and with freedom comes a responsibility, and so I practice art in that regard, whether it’s in music, film, theatre, spoken word, poetry, or novels,” he said.

“It’s really exciting to be playing with Ash and promoting this album. The songs represent a whole range of things, from veteran suicide to perceptions of culture, exceptions of law, law and lore, and the representative or facilitating the voice of marginalised people, and some of them are just good fun.

“It’s going to be an interesting and fun gig. We’ll be doing two 20-minute sets, and there’ll be a bit of a yarn in between, and I’ll tell a few stories.”

COMMUNITY DIARY

The Larrakia musician has performed at The Memo in 2021 and 2022, however, unfortunately, both of them were live-streamed events where he couldn’t meet the audience due to the Covid pandemic.

“It’s really great that we’re able to have an open concert and a public concert,” Mr Dargan said.

He was a firsthand witness to Corroboree

2000, which brought together Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous leaders in a historic call for reconciliation.

He could never forget that feeling on the day and has tried to recapture that feeling in groups during National Reconciliation Week every year.

“That launch event with so many Australians walking hand in hand together, that’s what recon-

From Men’s Shed to trade

The Badger Creek and District Men’s Shed members farewelled their youngest member, Kai Goodman (19) on Monday 12 May.

Kai is moving to Melbourne and will soon commence a trade training course.

THE VALLEY

Yarra Valley Pride Cup

Join us in celebrating inclusion, diversity, and community pride at the Yarra Valley Pride Cup on 24 May.

Enjoy great company, inspiring stories, and a vibrant display of sport and solidarity across the day.

Netball Game Times:

• D Grade: 10.15am

• C Grade: 11.15am

• A Grade Pride Cup Game: 12.20pm

• B Grade: 1.40pm

• Football Game Times:

• U18s: 10.50am

• Reserves: 12.30pm

• Seniors Pride Cup Game, Yarra Glen vs Pakenham: 2.30pm

• Opening Ceremony begins at 2.05pm

• Location: Yarra Glen Recreation Reserve, 1159 Healesville Yarra Glen Road, Yarra Glen.

Kai has been with the shed for one and a half years and over that time has become a valuable member of the team learning to use shed equipment, undertaking his own projects and being involved with all other shed activities.

Shed members joke that it was their skill

and obvious expertise that pointed Kai in the direction of starting his Carpentry Cert 2 course at the Melbourne Polytechnic (Heidelberg Campus) next week.

Over a lunch of hamburgers, Kai was presented with a Carpenter’s Tool Belt and wished all the best for where life takes him in the future.

Secretary Graeme Chester (right) presenting Kai with the Carpenter’s Tool Belt. (Supplied)

ciliation is. That’s the spirit of it,” he said.

“That spirit has been continuing with us and it does today joined by every conversation we have, every moment that we come together to remember the history of Australia, to tell the truth about it but also to rejoice the fact that we’re a country of togetherness.”

Two more guests for the event were Ziggy Ramo, a rapper, changemaker, award-winning musician, producer of Wik and Solomon Islander heritage, and Courtney Ugle, a VFLW star, proud Noongar woman from Bunbury, Western Australia, who is a leading voice in the fight against domestic violence.

Prof Frankland said while reconciliation is hard work, it also has to be a joy, and that joy can come through breaking bread together, music, having a yarn, and listening to stories.

“For many people, it’s about letting go, but it’s to reconcile a nation and it begins with individuals,” he said.

“One of the ways to do it is to truly acknowledge the past, so that we can grapple with the contemporary happenings, the here and now, so that we can have a united vision for victory for the place where we can all call home.”

The event is free but registration is required. For more information: yarraranges.vic.gov. au/Experience/Events/Yarra-Ranges-Reconciliation-Week-%E2%80%93Bridging-Now-to-Next

Free public transport for kids and teens

The Victorian Government has made a pair of public transport announcements ahead of the 2025/26 Victorian Budget.

From 1 January 2026, kids under 18 will travel for free with a new youth Myki card, while Seniors Card holders will also have free public transport travel on weekends.

Public Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams said this will save so many struggling families thousands of dollars a year.”

“Cheaper school runs, cheaper weekends at the footy – and one less thing for families to worry about,” she said.

“We’ve added hundreds more weekend services and now we’re making it free for seniors to travel on the weekend – making public transport an even better option, whether it’s for a trip to

see family or to explore Victoria.”

The new youth myki can be used like any other myki, to tap on and travel through ticket gates at stations and when getting on a bus or tram.

The card will stay valid until the child turns 18.

Children living in non-myki areas will also be eligible for free travel. The free travel will be available on all forms of public transport including trams, trains, buses and coach services in metro, regional and rural areas.

“Whether it’s travelling to the city, to regional Victoria or just around the corner to see family –we’re making it free for every child,” Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn said.

Passengers with a senior Myki will need to carry their Seniors Card while travelling and use their senior Myki to touch on and off as usual –

but myki cards won’t be charged.

Cardholders will continue to be eligible for a 50 per cent discount off the full fare on weekdays.

To be eligible for a seniors Myki you must have a Victorian Seniors Card. Victorian Seniors Card holders must be permanent residents of Victoria, aged 60 or over and work less than 35 hours a week.

“Free public transport for every child, every day, everywhere, families are doing it tough and I’m on their side,” Premier Jacinta Allan said.

“Costs can add up – especially for seniors –and I’m on their side, that’s why we’re making public transport free on weekends for seniors, saving them more than $360 every year.”

Professor Richard J Frankland is an elder and Gunditjmara man, whose multi-faceted career spans justice, arts, and advocacy. (Supplied)

Ash Dargan is a Larrakia musician and storyteller from Darwin, Northern Territory.

Wildlife shelter is moving

By Oliver Winn

A small wildlife shelter operator had her dreams realised as she moved into a new, purpose built property that will house more wildlife and give top quality care.

Waratah Wildlife Shelter founder Raewyn Jeganathan said she’d been looking for a suitable property for 10 years, and after facing financial constraints, she finally had the opportunity to build a wildlife shelter designed specifically for the care of animals in mind.

“I’m most excited about being able to have purpose-built and purposely designed facilities so that I can accommodate more animals, be able to attend to them more efficiently, and be able to provide a more interesting environment for them to be in while they are in care.”

The Big Pats Creek property would be able to provide care for larger animals, which would help combat the shortage of large animal accommodating shelters in the area.

Ms Jeganathan’s vision for the property was to create enclosures that have the ability to house multiple different types of species.

She said this would enable her shelter to house more wildlife in need of care, and avoid having to euthanise animals because there’s not enough space in the shelter.

Initially, Ms Jeganathan operated her shelter out of her parents’ property - but her new shelter meant it could be designed with efficiency in mind, allowing for a greater number of animals to be cared for and also ensuring a greater quality of care.

But, she said as she expands her shelter, she requires the help of others to run it properly.

“There are only so many animals I can care for on my own and do a good job of it,” she said.

“For too long wildlife care has been left to a few individuals, but in reality as a community, we’re all responsible for the welfare of animals.”

“I hope to get together a good team of reliable regular volunteers who can help with the day to day management and husbandry at the property.”

For the time being, Ms Jeganathan said she’d focus on getting things set up at her property before she’d begin housing more wildlife.

“I suppose in the near future I’m just really excited to be able to start contributing more again and taking in more animals,” she said.

Upgrade of Healesville U3A’s home is now completed

By Dongyun Kwon

To celebrate the completion of the maintenance work for the Old Healesville Courthouse, the Healesville U3A hosted a special event to express gratitude to all those involved in the maintenance program, as well as to acknowledge the significance of the building.

The Old Healesville Courthouse is owned by the state government and managed by the local government, and has been the home of Healesville U3A since 2017.

The event was held on Tuesday 13 May.

The MC, Ethne Pfeiffer, the current president of Healesville U3A, introduced three guest speakers; two past Healesville U3A presidents, Julian Higgs and John Pascoe, and Ryrie Ward councillor Fiona McAllister.

Mr Higgs took the presidential position between 2012 and 2017 and worked closely with Cr McAllister to get the new home in 2017.

“There was an article in the local paper announcing that the tourist information centre, which was housed here at that stage, was going to shut down,” he said.

“I saw an opportunity here. It didn’t take me long to get in contact with our councillor, Fiona McAllister, saying that I felt this was something we’d be very interested in, and I did the same with the council officers who we liaise with at that time.

“(The Yarra Ranges Council) gave us the courthouse, and shortly after, the council did also approve the recurrent funding for all the U3As.”

Mr Higgs also thanked Eildon MP Cindy McLeish, who helped get the contract signed off by the state government.

Cr McAllister said she was grateful for Healesville U3A members and the Yarra Ranges Council team who put in the effort to look after the historical building.

“This was built in a community in 1890 with 100 people. It was the Court of Petty Sessions, which has been renamed the Magistrates Court

now, for a very long time in our community, and then we know its iteration as the tourist information centre, where, again, it was about learning about our place and our town,” she said.

“Many years ago, local governments’ remit under our legislation, our Local Government Act, was about improving the overall quality of life for everyone who lives here and visits now and into the future, and that’s always my check.

“We’ve supported connection to the place, which is important in our towns and for our community, treasuring this building and making it last another 10, 20, 30 years. We support well-being by supporting U3A because everything you

do is about what I, as a psychologist, would call the five ways to well-being; connection, learning, passion, (taking notice), and giving.”

The Old Healesville Courthouse was one of five timber courthouses in Victoria.

With the new home, Healesville U3A has expanded its service to the wider community.

It now has over 300 memberships, running more than 30 programs every week during terms.

The maintenance work for the historical building took about six weeks from the beginning of February to mid-April.

John Pascoe, former president of Healesville U3A between 2021 and 2024, said the further the

maintenance team went, the more they found to fix.

“The building’s been restumped. The weatherboards have been replaced,” he said.

“The roof has been reclaimed, it’s been totally cleaned out. The hardwood has been repainted.

“There was a new ramp put on for access, and then these hearths were put in because the building had fallen so much that there were cracks and they were sticking up all over the place. We just took out the old concrete and put in new ones after being restumped.”

After the speeches, attendees enjoyed refreshments in the courthouse building.

Driveway of the new location. (Supplied)

The event was MCed by Ethne Pfeiffer, the current president of Healesville U3A. (Dongyun Kwon: 478180)

YARRA VALLEY GAS

Yarra Valley Gas turns 50

A stalwart of a local business is set to raise the bar this year and celebrate a remarkable milestone.

2025 marks 50 years of Yarra Valley Gas which was started by local Fred Hunter on the original Hunter Road property in Wandin North where he was born some 100 years ago. Since 1975 it has continued to run year after year consistently from the premise in Wandin North, serving local residents and businesses throughout the Yarra Valley and across Victoria.

Owner Michael Alexandrou purchased the business from Wesfarmers Kleenheat Gas some 20 years ago and is proud to say that Yarra Valley Gas is 100 per cent locally owned and operated and considers it a privilege and an honour to continue Fred’s legacy.

An important piece of Yarra Valley Gas history that community members might recognise is the Yarra Valley Gas BBQ trailer ‘Stanley’, born from the idea of honouring the Anzacs and especially Stanley, the grandfather of Owner/Office Manager Jacqui, who was a World War Two soldier.

Stanley has gone on to attend over 200 community events and has raised over $110,000 to date for local sporting clubs, schools, and community organisations. Stanley is available to any not-forprofit community organisation for free upon request.

Yarra Valley Gas is embedded in the community and loves to support community groups and organisations including:

• Local schools, sporting clubs and events such as the Wandin North Primary School Harvest Market and The Yea Show

• Emergency accommodation across the Yarra Valley

• Local tourism organisations such networks such as the Tourism Network Yarra Valley, Yarra Ranges Tourism, Warburton Valley CEDA (Community Economic Development Association), Yarra Valley Business and the Healesville Traders Network

• CFA Brigades across Victoria

Located at 51 Hunter Road, Wandin North, you can get in touch with the Yarra Valley Gas team by calling 03 5964 4424, visiting the new yvgas.com. au website which will launch on 1 June this year to mark the 50 year celebration or by following Yarra Valley Gas on Facebook and Instagram.

Celebrate 50 years of your local LPG supplier Yarra Valley Gas in 2025.

50 years as your local LPG supplier.

Stan Payne, who the Stanley trailer is named after.

Sizzling with Stanley. Always a presence at local events.

Supporting local businesses.

Much-loved by the community.

‘Stanley’ in action servicing the community. (Supplied)

Celebrate 50 years of Yarra Valley Gas.

Free 24/7 urgent healthcare

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Connect to highly skilled emergency doctors and nurses from Victoria’s Virtual Emergency Department

No GP referral, Medicare card or appointment needed

Register now so you’re ready to use us in the future

Scan the QR code to register now or visit: vved.au/self_registrations

Find out more at urgentcare.vic.gov.au

Mission was spreading hope

By Oliver Winn

In Wandin, many locals are familiar with the sight of a lady selling jam outside the WandinSeville Community Bank.

Known affectionately as the jam lady, 87-year-old Maria Bast had sold jam to support Leprosy Mission projects for five yearsbut now, she’d decided at the end of June, it would be time to call it quits

Ms Bast said she wanted to thank everyone who’s supported herself and her husband, Joe Bast as without them, they couldn’t have done what they did.

“The most important thing to us is to thank all the people who helped us over the years,” Ms Bast said.

Farmers generously donated their strawberries and tradies tipped their cash consistently, while others offered coffees for sleepy mornings, hot potato cakes for cold winters and refreshing drinks for warm summers.

“I’m so grateful for all the people who’ve donated their fruit and jars, and for all the kindness I’ve received.”

She’d raised over $78,500 from the stall with her husband which provided crucial funding for projects they’ve supported through the Leprosy Mission, a Christian organisation dedicated to combating leprosy.

Leprosy is a chronic infection which affects millions of people around the world and when left untreated, can lead to permanent disability, physical deformities and social isolation.

It’s now curable and within 48 hours of being treated, the patient is non-contagious.

But a lack of understanding about the disease has resulted in a strong stigma that’s rooted in history and can often cause more harm mentally to the victim than the physical symptoms.

Ms Bast said when she and her husband visited India in 1999, they witnessed the

widespread damage of leprosy and ever since they’ve dedicated their lives to raising funds and awareness for the cause.

“When I visited India I saw more than just visiting children’s homes and stuff like that - I

saw misery, so much misery.”

“Young lads… they had their legs amputated, farmers who had no income anymore. Families that were suffering,” she said.

The harrowing sight was the catalyst for the

couple’s first project, where they raised money to support daughters of leprosy victims to become nurses, as leprosy’s long-reaching limbs also hindered relatives by association.

“The first project was to raise money to have girls from parents affected by leprosy become nurses and midwives. Because they don’t have a chance,” she said.

This is when Ms Bast decided to draw upon an old trade she learnt when she had a farm in the Yarra Ranges - making jam.

“We did have a farm for 20 years and I looked after six children, so I needed a lot of jam. I like making jam, so that’s why I did that (to raise money).”

The second project was establishing a mobile clinic to provide care to leprosy victims, as they often couldn’t travel due to their injuries and stigma.

Now, they’re close to finishing their third and final project, which is to provide rehabilitation services and artificial limbs to leprosy sufferers in South India.

She said her faith played a big role in her want to spread love among the people of Wandin and to help those suffering from leprosy.

“I am a Christian, you know, and I really, you know, like to encourage people, you know, that there is faith and that there is hope and that there is love.”

Though Ms Bast wanted to focus on the generosity of the Wandin community, her presence as a friendly face in the town has undoubtedly left a positive impact on everyone who’s interacted with her.

“Sometimes I feel like a hairdresser. They tell me all sort of things, and I’m there to encourage people. I’m there to love people. I’m there to be happy. And that’s why they come and talk,” she said.

“It is really my connection day, every Friday, and that’s really what I will miss.”

If you’d like to get in touch, call Joe and Maria Bast on 5964 4536.

Maria Bast at her jam stall in front of the Bendigo Community Bank Wandin-Seville. (Supplied)

Father defrauded

Ray, a 78-year-old retired tradesman and business owner, never imagined he would become a victim of elder abuse at the hands of his own son.

The abuse began in 2011 when Ray asked his son Peter for help dealing with a stolen credit card.

Peter offered assistance, using the opportunity to take control of his father’s finances, including acting on Ray’s behalf with the bank.

Given Ray was not familiar with computers, Peter offered to set up a MyGov account in Ray’s name.

He then redirected Ray’s pension payments into his own bank account.

Peter listed his phone number as a contact and nominated that all correspondence be sent online.

Over seven years, Peter systematically stole more than $152,000 in pension payments and fraudulently obtained an additional $78,000 through loans taken out in Ray’s name.

During this time Ray had been convinced that the “meagre” allowance Peter gave him was all that remained after his bills had been paid.

To substitute his income, Ray relied on repairing discarded furniture which he would sell for income.

The emotional toll was profound; Ray’s financial situation made it difficult for him to go out, and he was reluctant to admit the truth of his situation to his friends.

Legal matters

Anita Koochew Eastern Community Legal Centre

Despite several years of unpaid bills, Ray’s electricity and phone services were never disconnected, giving no reason for Ray to be alarmed.

This was because Peter had submitted falsified documents claiming his father required connection to life-saving equipment and needed a phone line for emergency purposes.

Peter’s manipulation extended to creating fake letters and making deceptive phone calls, impersonating government officials and politicians to falsely reassure Ray that his missing funds, unpaid pension and frozen bank account issues were being addressed.

In 2020, Peter was sentenced to a jail term for unrelated fraud charges.

This inadvertently led Ray to contact his local MP’s office, and with the assistance of Ray’s daughter, Peter’s deception began to unravel.

Centrelink has since denied Ray’s claim for

compensation, arguing their systems were not at fault because Peter had authenticated access through MyGov.

ECLC lawyers and advocates worked with Ray to help him understand his rights and options, and the Centre supported Ray to gather evidence and navigate the legal system.

Paul Were, Managing Lawyer for Elder Abuse at ECLC, called it an “absolute no-brainer” that institutions should check directly with the pension recipient before paying their money into an account held by someone else who isn’t entitled to it.

“In Ray’s situation, Centrelink did not go back to Ray and ask if he wanted the money paid into Peter’s account,” Paul said.

“There have to be more safeguards in place so this doesn’t happen again,” Paul added.

Peter was eventually convicted and sentenced to four years in prison for defrauding his father.

Ray, now protected by an intervention order, hopes sharing his story will help others: “You don’t expect your own children to do this”.

Sadly, Ray’s experience is not unique.

Elder abuse, especially financial abuse, is a growing problem in Australia, and is often perpetrated by trusted family members.

If you or someone you know is experiencing elder abuse, contact ECLC for confidential advice and support on 1300 32 52 00 or use the online form at eclc.org.au/help for an appointment.

Not just possible – a certain good time

Impossible: The Final Reckoning

M 4.5/5

The direct sequel to Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning from 2023, The Final Reckoning is an outstanding thriller and a great finale for the three-decade Mission Impossible series. Elite agent Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) must reunite with his team to prevent the Entity, a runaway AI, from triggering nuclear armageddon. Like Dead Reckoning, The Final Reckoning is nearly three hours long but feels quick and compelling, maintaining an apocalyptic tightening suspense.

Cruise gives a grounded, vulnerable (but still badass) performance as Ethan, Hayley Atwell

stuns once again as the heroic pickpocket Grace, and Esai Morales returns as the incredibly charismatic villain Gabriel.

With much of the character development having taken place in the previous film, The Final Reckoning can concentrate on amazing action

Film fest

PASSION FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

It may seem strange for this book column to discuss movies, but the forthcoming Melbourne Taiwan Film Festival is a highly recommended event.

Taking place at ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image) on May 22-24, it features the work and creative processes of some of Taiwan’s best filmmakers.

The festival’s four films and accompanied Q&As open a window to the past and present of Taiwan as a modern democracy. They also showcase the diverse ethnic and cultural identities that combine to make the Taiwanese society vibrant and dynamic.

The event begins with the award-winning art-house film A Journey in Spring (2023), a sensitive and nuanced depiction of grief and family relations through the lens of aging couples.

It tells the story of an elderly man trying to grapple with the unexpected and overwhelming loss of his wife of many years.

The festival’s second film, Hunter Brothers (2024), is a poignant exploration into the ways of Taiwan’s indigenous community.

Yuci and Siring are brothers whose lives were profoundly changed by a hunting accident that took their father’s life in the mountains.

Years later, their world collapses, torn apart by the opposite pulls of modernity and tradition.

Taiwan’s indigenous peoples account for 3.4 per cent of its total population, similar to the figure of 3.8 per cent in Australia.

The film’s director, Su Hung-En, is of mixed indigenous/Taiwanese heritage.

Constant switching between these two identities allows him to see the world from different perspectives, a unique experience that is not uncommon across our own nation.

The third film featured in the festival is the iconic A City of Sadness (1989), one of the must- see masterpieces probing the multifaceted and intersectional history of Taiwan.

It follows the Lin family from 1945 to 1949, the period after the end of fifty years of Japanese colonial rule and before the formal establishment of Chiang Kai-Shek’s Nationalist Government in Taipei.

The Lin brothers suffer different fates, but the film focuses on the youngest, a deaf-mute photographer played by renowned Hong Kong actor Tony Leung.

The character is arrested during the infamous February 28 Incident in 1947, where thousands of Taiwanese people were killed by Nationalist troops.

The incident marked the beginning of over forty years of “White Terror”, the political repression of Taiwanese civilians and political dissenters by the ruling Nationalist Government.

and a clever plot blending high-tech gadgetry with low-tech cunning.

The action is thrilling and inventive as ever: a second-act scuffle brilliantly cuts between two fights according to similar moves, and the climactic chase may be the coolest action scene involving bi-planes in cinema history. The submarine scene, with the rotating vertigo of Inception and the falling perils of the cliff scene in The Lost World, is the film’s nervewracking centrepiece. The Final Reckoning also features plenty of satisfying callbacks tying together the rest of the franchise.

Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning is a superbly-crafted, enthralling action movie, and I hope it does far better at the box-office than its predecessor.

This dark chapter in their history is a reminder for present and future generations of Taiwanese people to cherish their hardearned freedom and unity.

Finally, the festival’s fourth and last film offers much light relief while tackling social issues with humour and heart. The horror comedy Dead Talents Society (2024) tells the story of a rookie ghost trying to find self-worth in the afterlife.

The ghosts here have to work hard scaring the bejesus out of the living in order to become rich and famous “influencers”.

Please note: All four films are free, but booking is essential.

For details, visit the ACMI website: acmi.net.au/whats-on/melbourne-taiwan-film-festival-2025/

Mission

Starring Tom Cruise, Hayley Atwell and Esai Moralles

A

MULTIGENERATIONAL LIVING ON 5 ACRES

STEP into a world where elegance meets thoughtful design, and every corner of the property tells a story. Set on five beautifully landscaped acres just moments from the heart of Emerald and a short drive to Beaconsfield & Berwick, this rare, multigenerational estate offers a unique lifestyle opportunity that blends privacy, charm, and grandeur.

From the moment you enter the tree-lined driveway, flanked by white cherry blossoms, you are transported to a place where nature and architecture exist in perfect harmony. At the base of the drive, the solid brick two-storey Gatehouse welcomes you. Hedged, paved, and complete with an outdoor entertaining area, it offers two spacious upstairs bedrooms, a study, a galley-style kitchen, bathroom, and cozy living spaces with reverse cycle heating/ cooling and a wood fire - a perfect blend of comfort and character.

As you ascend the driveway, the Main Residence reveals itself in spectacular fashion. Crafted with precision and pride, it boasts an unforgettable entry - a towering custom door sets the tone for what lies beyond. Soaring sixmeter ceilings and solid timber floors laid on the diagonal, huge solid timber custom made doors throughout lead you through elegant living and dining zones into a stunning family kitchen. Outfitted with Smeg appliances and granite benches, the new kitchen opens to a serene, glass-enclosed room - and at the back of the pool there is a little oasis for relaxation or meditation, overlooking a private pool area.

Framed by towering hedges and lush plantings, the resort-style area is flanked by underground rooms - one housing pool equipment, the other a bathroom. A clever design feature includes a wisteria-covered wall that offers cool summer shade while allowing warm winter sun to stream through the windows warming the home in winter.

The Main Home continues to impress with a luxurious master retreat, complete with a walk-through robe and spa ensuite. Two additional bedrooms are generously sized with built-in robes, plus there is a separate study and a children’s retreat/games area that opens to a designer bathroom fitted with modern European tapware. Climate comfort is guaranteed with reverse cycle systems and a commanding wood fire that heats the entire home with ease.

To the other side of the main home, wander into the European-style solid brick courtyard,

with hedging, fruit trees, outdoor kitchen, an imported pizza oven from Tuscany - an entertainer’s dream. The Merbau-timbered utility rooms and expansive veggie gardens are thoughtfully tucked away nearby, along with a fire pit area and protected wood storage close to the home, down to a underground extra large double carport that leads up to the back of the main dwelling under a covered walkway.

Opposite the main residence, the Coach House is another solid brick structure, currently serving as a workshop and additional accommodation. With a double carport, three stables (all with automated watering systems), and space for a future transformation, this

building could easily become a two- or threebedroom temporary accommodation subject to council approval. It boasts a magnificent red ironbark staircase by Slattery & Acroffe, and split-level living potential.

The property has two separate driveways - one off a sealed road from EmeraldBeaconsfield Road, and another leading to the rear, offering ease of access and privacy. The land itself is stunning: three paddocks, two large flat playing or riding areas, extensive plantings of established ornamental trees, and a bountiful harvest of fruits and nuts - including citrus, walnuts, quince, figs, apples, hazelnuts, and more. Herbs grow in

abundance across the garden beds, and the steel-structured outdoor zones ensure longlasting, low-maintenance living.

• Main Residence – 3 Bed, 2 Bath, 2 Toilet, Study Gate House – 2 Bed, 1 Bath, 1 Toilet, Study Coach House – 1 Bed, 1 Bath, 1 Toilet This is more than a property – it’s a lifestyle, a sanctuary, and an opportunity rarely found. Ideal for extended families, self-sufficient enthusiasts, or anyone seeking space, style, and soul in one unforgettable estate.

• Lana Maher 0408 535 075 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

HOME FOCUS

REIMAGINING COMPACT LIVING WITH MICRO HOMES GROUP

WITH years of design experience and a deep understanding of modern housing challenges, Micro Homes Group is changing the way Australians think about compact, movable living. Purpose-built for comfort, longevity, and safety, every Micro home is a fully customised home on wheels—designed to offer a dignified and permanent living solution without the red tape associated with traditional builds.

Each micro home is unique, just like its owner. We start every project with a one-onone consultation to understand our customer’s needs, budget, and long-term goals. From there, we design a home that isn’t just liveable but enjoyable—purposeful, beautiful, and built to last generations.

One of the biggest advantages of a micro home is its ability to bypass the usual planning hurdles.

Many Australians are unable to get permits for a granny flat due to zoning restrictions, overlays, set backs, covenants, or other council-imposed limitations. That’s where Micro Homes Group offers a game-changing solution. Our micro homes are the widest registered caravans in Australia. Because they are legally classed as caravans, they don’t fall under the building code—making them ideal for people facing council restrictions but still needing extra, self-contained living space.

Unlike conventional tiny houses, micro homes are specifically engineered to mitigate the risks often associated with those builds. With our homes, there are no lofts or ladders— just a smart, all-ground-floor layout designed for comfort and accessibility.

Standard features include:

A flushing toilet with our proprietary easy connect system, capable of pumping sewage uphill to a legal point of disposal.

Built to BAL29 bushfire resistance standards for added safety in fire-prone areas.

An exclusive suspension system that folds up after installation, lowering the micro home to just 10 cm above ground level.

An innovative landing leg system that bears the entire weight of the home, making it incredibly stable and rock-solid to live in.

No land preparation needed—thanks to adjustable landing legs with a 55 cm range,

Homes can be installed even on sloped terrain.

Micro Homes Group backs every project with a fixed price, a guaranteed timeline, and a dedicated project team to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible. Each micro home comes with a five-year warranty, offering peace of mind with every build. And with sustainability at the heart of what we do, our homes are constructed using

environmentally conscious materials and methods.

In a world where housing is becoming increasingly unaffordable and difficult to secure, Micro Homes Group delivers a practical, legal, and long-term solution— without compromise. Built to move, built to last, and built just for you.

Micro

ACREAGE WITH SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

A private and picturesque location, this rustic farmhouse on small acreage offers a fantastic lifestyle. Boasting 4 bedrooms and loads of space for the growing family, with a flexible floor plan of upstairs and downstairs living. Spacious family/living and lounge areas give everyone plenty of space to spread out. The kitchen is spacious with an open feel and ample bench and cupboard space. Get outside and enjoy the outdoors with the wide open space with just over 2.5 acres to explore and enjoy, a kids and animals paradise with a fenced off play area. For the horse enthusiast, separate paddocks, plus a riding arena and stables. Open machinery shed and a high clearance carport for floats and caravans, plus the king of sheds with a huge lock up garage/workshop big enough to accommodate large trucks and trailers. Entertain and enjoy the summer weather with a covered entertaining area and an above ground pool with decking all round - it’s the ideal spot to relax and unwind. A fantastic small acreage property in a great location that has so much to offer!

APrivateCountryEscapeon1.3Acres

Experiencethebestofa prestigiouscountrylifestyleonthisbeautifullypresentedproperty. Situatedonoveranacreandquarter(approx.5330sq.m),thisidylliclocationenjoys amixoftreed landscapesandclearedpaddockareas.Thisclassicwell-designedhomefeaturesfourbedrooms, includinga fullmasterensuite,andtwolivingareas.Theheartofthehomeboastsa wellequipped kitchen,family,anddiningarea -witha generouslysizedandseparatelivingspace.Stepoutside to astunningoutdooralfrescoareacompletewithBBQoverlookingtheopenspacesandallunder cover.Thesparklingingroundpoolallowsentertainingandenjoymentinsummer. Adoublecarport offersamplespaceforvehiclesandeventhecaravan,thereisseparatelockupgarageaswelland withYarraJunction’stowncentrejustfewminutesdriveaway,convenienceisn’tcompromised.

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068 Inspection: Wed4:00-4:30pm,Sat12:00-12:30pm 4 A 2

3BedroomHomewithMountainViewsandOutdoorEntertaining Adelightfulbrickhomesetona generousblock,greatforfirsthomebuyersoryoungfamilies. Offering 3bedrooms,a brightandcheerfulinteriorwithvibrantdécorandplentyofnaturallight.A neatandfunctionalkitchenboastsamplecupboardspace,makingmealprepa breeze,whilethe splitsystemensuresyearroundcomfort.Stepoutsidetoenjoya coveredentertainingareacomplete with abuiltinBBQidealforweekendgettogethers.Thefullyfencedbackyardfeatureslushlawn space, agardenshed,anda versatilestudio,providingflexibilityforhobbies,work,orstorage.Move inreadyandwaitingforthenextchapter,closetotheYarraRiverandwalkingtracksandgreat accessforpublictransportandshops.

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068 Inspection: Sat11:00-11:30am

averyspecialWarburtonpropertywith alittlebitofmusicalhistoryatthis wellknownaddress,simplystunninglocation,thisbeautifulhomeistheidealplacetosecureyou littlepieceofWarburton.Walkoutyourbackgateandyou’rerightonthewalkingtrailandin Warburton’smainstreetwithinminutestoenjoyallthemainstreeteateriesandattractions.The classicweatherboardhomeisverywellpresented,wellmaintainedandlovedandcaredforfor years,offering 2bedroomsplusa separatebungalowidealfortheB&B ortheextraweekendguests. Thelounge/familyroomisjustthespottositbackrelaxandenjoythecolorfulviewsandsurrounds andideallysituatedwiththeYarraRiverandgolfcoursejustovertheroadit’stheidealplacetocall home.

ClassicWarburtonHomewithFantasticViews

StepbackintimewiththisclassicWarburtonhome,boastingalltheperiodfeaturesoftheearlydays goneby ,mostlyoriginalthroughoutandfeaturinghighceilings,decorativecorniceandfloorboards. Offering 2goodsizedbedroomsand aseparatedownstairsoptional3rdbedroom,studyorgames roomplus aseparatelounge/livingroom.Headoutdoorsandenjoythebeautifulestablished gardensandthepicturesquelocationwithfantasticmountainviewsbathedinsunlightandsituated on alargefamilysizeblockofapprox.1000sqmwithplentyofspaceforeveryone.Convenientrear yardaccessandwithampleparkingand alockupgarageandbonussolarpower, agreatlocation just ashortstrolltotheYarrariverandWarburton’smainstreeteateriesandattractions,it’s agreat spottobe.

230BritanniaCreekRoad,Wesburn

CHARMING CHARACTER HOME

PRIVATELY nestled in a peaceful location and yet very central is this gorgeous three-bedroom character home, filled with charm, light, and lifestyle appeal. Step inside to discover a warm and inviting interior bathed in natural light and showcasing beautiful lead light features throughout, high ceilings, Blackwood kitchen with solid timber benchtops and freshly sealed hardwood floors, offering a welcoming haven for families, downsizers or anyone seeking space, serenity, and style.

The separate lounge with open fireplace offers a cosy retreat, while the expansive open-plan kitchen, dining, and family room provide the perfect setting for everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen boasts a new dishwasher, and ample bench space, ideal for home chefs and busy households alike.

Each of the three bedrooms is generously proportioned with built in robes, while the surrounding landscape offers a true sense of privacy and natural light.

The family-friendly design continues outside, where you’ll find a large garage complete with its own separate switchboard — perfect for a workshop, studio, or additional storage. Children will delight in the charming cubby house, and green thumbs will appreciate the established vegetable gardens ready for your seasonal harvests. Located within walking distance to doctors, tennis courts, both preschool and primary schools, and just a five-minute drive into the thriving Belgrave township with its cafes, shops, and train station, this is a home that truly ticks all the boxes, it’s a lifestyle opportunity you won’t want to miss!

**Access Information: Inspections are best accessed via the laneway, Parking is available on Lyons Drive with a short scenic walk along the pretty lane, or at the Selby General Store. **

IMMACULATEHOMEINTHEHEARTOFMONBULK

Thisbeautifullypresentedhomeofferstheperfectblendofcountrycharmandmodern comfortsetona sunny1089sqmusableblock.Featuringstunningtimber floors,a sunlit country-stylekitchen,and open-planlivingthatflows to afabulous coveredentertaining deck withtreedviews.Enjoyyear-roundcomfortwithGDH,splitsystem,and aCoonara fireplace.Sealeddriveway,remotegate,andampleparking.WalktoMonbulk’smain street,schools,transport,andtheaquaticcentre -just10minutes to BelgraveCentral.

JanBrewster 0409558805

MickDolphin 0429684522

Areyoudreamingof atreechange?Characterrichlogcabin,originallybuiltover90 yearsago,blendingtimelesscharmwithmoderncomfort.Lovinglymaintained,featuring ductedheatingandsplitsystemair-conditioning,invitingopenfireplace,instanthotwater andgascookingappliances,anexpansivedeckwithstunningviews,nearacreofflat landscapedgrounds,wherea gentlecreekwindsaroundthebottom,anorchardwith seasonalfruitandanabundanceofparking.Thisismorethana home,it’sa lifestyle!

DavidStewart 0411655611

LUXURIOUSRESORT-STYLELIVINGWITHVIEWS

Luxuriousprivatelylocatedhome,offeringamazingviews,CBUSsystem, floorheating, marblebathrooms,Jarrahcabinetryinthekitchen,Glemdoubleovens,Mieleinduction cooktops,andCaesarStonebenches.Library,multiplelivingzones,inbuiltbar,games room,homecinema,hugeundercoverdecking,ingroundpool,changeroom,toiletand outdoorshower,sauna,largedecking.Fullsizedarena60 x20withviewingplatform.4 stables,tractorandHayshed, 2Dams,Billabong,10paddocksandsomuchmore!

MickDolphin 0429684522

AnthonyIorlano 0494142438

GrantSkipsey 0418528102 CHARACTERANDCHARM

MickDolphin 0429684522

AVIEWTOA BETTERLIFESTYLE

TotalprivacywithviewstoSilvanDam,WarburtonRanges,ThePatch &Monbulk Entertainingareaadjacenttotheswimmingpoolwithspa.Wallsofglassinside &blue stonefeatured firesidefamilyroomplus astunningnearnewkitchenwithislandbar.Four orfivebedroomsincl.themasterbedroomwithensuite &WIR.Downstairshasa rumpus room &threeadditionalbedroomswithbathrooms,spas,& toilets.Outdoorentertainingis poolside orlazinginthespa.Dblecarport,MASSIVE opengarage& workshop/storage

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.

PROUD RETURN FOR HEALESVILLE TOY LIBRARY

THE Healesville Toy Library will reopen on Saturday May 24th, after a six-year hiatus. A new committee have catalogued over 400 toys that are waiting to be borrowed and taken to your home for a play date.

With a recent $1,000 grant from the Bendigo Bank, we have been able to inject new life into the Toy Library through introducing a digital borrowing platform and maximising our storage space - meaning more quality educational toys for our community!

Family Membership is $40 annually and

entitles your family to borrow 4 toys each visit. It’s a great way to connect with other young families and we encourage our members to volunteer a few times a year in the library. Toy libraries are a great way to access high quality toys at minimal cost, kids love borrowing their new toys and it’s a sustainable way of

Part of the team

Healesville & District Community Enterprise Limited is a franchisee of Bendigo Bank and operates the locally owned Community Bank of Healesville.

Expressions of interest are now being accepted for the voluntary position of the Director.

As a director you will be motivated, well organised, self-directed and community orientated. You’ll support and drive the company’s strategic direction, goals and objectives to have a real say in the future direction of the branch and community.

For more information or to apply, call Phil on 0439 696 555 or email contactus@hdcel.com.au.

providing toys in a circular economy. Join us for our opening launch Saturday the 24th of May between 10 am and 12pm at the Council Meeting Room near the Healesville library.

Look for our Healesville Toy Library logo.

INCREDIBLE STYLE AND VERSATILITY

DESIGNED for sophisticated and harmonious family living on a superb 2,101sqm (approx.) landscape, this exceptional property stands out for all the right reasons. Boasting immense versatility, incredible quality, and idyllic outdoor entertaining areas, fortunate new owners will discover a fabulous lifestyle here.

When it’s time to gather with family and friends, the entry level features a formal lounge with wood fire and charming window seat that steps up to a bright family room and meals area with bamboo flooring. This zone then flows out to the expansive open and covered deck with skylights, ceiling fan, and heating for year-round enjoyment. Servicing these spaces is the exquisite chefs’ kitchen with stone benchtops, subway tiles, high quality appliances, and servery window that connects this space seamlessly with the deck. Additional living space can be found on the upper level mezzanine that overlooks this luxurious residence.

When it’s time to retreat for the day, there are several beautiful bedrooms on offer. The entry level features 3 bedrooms plus 2 magnificently renovated bathrooms that feature rainfall showers, floating vanities, and one with a relaxing soaking tub. With an additional bedroom on the mezzanine level and a lower level office/bedroom, this is a home you can grow into. In addition, 3 of the bedrooms are adorned with blackout blinds for complete comfort.

Furthermore, this stellar property also features gas ducted heating, split system heating/cooling, a lined double garage, 2 large sheds, raised veggie beds, and a charming gazebo that overlooks Monbulk Creek.

Guaranteed to impress, this property won’t remain on the market for long. Join us for a tour today.

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 State funds (8)

5 Bug (6)

10 Small natural hill (5)

11 Ostentatiously splendid (9)

12 Without order (6)

13 Raffle (7)

14 Evoking sadness or regret (8)

15 Plaster artwork (6)

18 Hand-held curved blade for reaping (6)

20 Month (8)

21 Make better (7)

24 Flowering shrub (6)

27 Deadpan (9)

28 Group of lions (5)

29 Thanksgiving bird (6)

30 Light (8)

1 Grab (4)

2 Pathological self-admirer (9) 3 Greens (5)

4 Military unit (8)

6 Examiner of accounts (7)

7 Smog (5)

8 All (9)

9 Collapse (4)

14 One who assumes the worst (9)

16 Across the region (9)

17 Depraved (8)

19 Peek (coll) (4-3)

22 Document (5)

23 Revise (a piece of writing) (4)

25 Generous (5) 26 Spool (4)

Warby golfers battle rain

By Ron Hottes

The V.V.Vs:

This week’s field was led by Anneleise Duivenvoorden, who returned an outstanding 21 points over the front nine.

This won the top voucher easily as the runner up was Vicki Hottes with a 13 point result.

There were no NTPs recorded, I’m afraid.

Wednesday May 14, Stableford:

A reduced field contested the vouchers on this day, as a number of members were tied up in a match play event.

Results of those matches will be part of next week’s edition. The best Stableford result came from the blades of Alan Macdonald, who posted a fine 37 point result.

Al finally gets bragging rights over the Commissioner.

A countback was required though, and a tight one at that, because Rob Ferguson also posted a 37 point card.

Balls on this day extended all the way down to 32.

The NTP winners were as follows: Guest from Yering, Joe McIntosh (3rd), Dave Hatt (5th), Your Loyal Scribe (9th) and Allan “Old-Man-River” Hubbard, (12th) and finally to Ken Barratt (15th).

Saturday May 17, Stableford & 2nd Round of the Captain’s Trophy:

In wintery conditions, and with plenty of precipitation, the top four from last week’s 1st round competed for this much desired Board event and David Hatt came out on top with a good enough score of 32 points, to go with last week’s top round.

In the daily Stableford comp, there were two very good top results, considering the tough conditions.

Kevin Smith posted a fine 37 points to grab the top A grade voucher off a handicap of +3, I might add.

The runner up here was Angus Hall, who only got pipped after a tight countback.

President Nursey was next with a solid 36 points. Balls reached down to 32. In B grade, Rob Ferguson snared the top prize, also with an excellent

37 points.

The runner up to Fergie was Trevor Porter who scored 35 points. Again the ball rundown reached down to 32.

The NTP winners on this day were Shane Campbell (3rd), Rob Mills (5th), Lee Creedy (9th), Jack Sheehan (12th) and Rod Kempton (15th).

A reduced field contested the vouchers on Wednesday 14 May, as a number of members were

SPORT Wandin all over Healesville

Healesville travelled to Wandin on Saturday 17 May for the first time in a long time, reviving what had been a significant rivalry through the 2010s.

A near full strength Wandin was always going to be a challenge, but it was a determined Healesville team that defended the small Wandin ground well.

As the first quarter kicked off, Wandin snatched some quick points with three goals and behinds, but it wasn’t without kickback from the Healesville outfit as they clinched a goal and a behind themselves.

Healesville’s defence was enough to force Wandin into some tricky situations, and though Wandin were in the lead, the first quarter wasn’t as smooth as Wandin had hoped.

A flurry of behinds kicked off the second quarter for Wandin, courtesy of Hodgett and Garner, but it was Hinds’ goal which saw Wandin shift gears.

Mullett entered the scoreline again with another great effort, and though Healesville bit back

with a goal of their own courtesy of Mende, it was clear the game had slipped out of their hands.

The third quarter was a repeat of the second with more goals from Mullett and one from Merlino.

Healesville’s Bradley and Munn also secured a dozen points for the visiting side.

The last quarter was really the standout for this match.

Wandin’s forward line made easy work of Healesville’s defence.

Garner looked unstoppable as he kicked a massive six goals in the final quarter back-toback, dramatically increasing Wandin’s lead.

Mullett, Beckwith and Jaworski also had their equal share of a goal each, ending the game with the scoreline at a whopping 127 to 34.

Healesville looked defensively strong in the

first quarter, but when a forward line contains in form forwards Mullet and Garner, containing Wandin for four quarters will always be a challenge.

A nine goal final quarter reminded everyone at the ground of that. Garner was unstoppable and finished with eight goals and Mullet the icing on the cake with six.

Wandin’s best players were: Joel Garner, Patty Bruzzese, Chayce Black, Aaron Mullett, Patrick Hodgett, Todd Garner.

Healesville’s best players were: Campbell Frazzetto, Charlie Warren, Liam Warner, Nick Mende, Brandon Murphy, Anthony Biddiscombe.

Next round is Pride Round and Wandin face Officer at Officer’s home ground.

Meanwhile Healesville visit the Dandenong Ranges to face Olinda.

Woori Yallock goes down to Hawks in an arm wrestle

FOOTBALL

Seniors:

On Saturday the Tigers journeyed to Monbulk to meet the fifth placed Hawks.

The first wet round of matches were played for the year as persistent showers and a southwesterly wind greeted the players. The ground was firm but the greasy ball meant that a contested game would ensue.

Monbulk gained the early ascendancy, establishing a 15 point buffer by half time.

Two early goals by the Tigers in the third term brought the margin back to within a point. It was to be an arm wrestle from then on until the final siren as both sides threw everything at the contest.

The Hawks again established a small lead and were to prevail in an entertaining match.

• Monbulk 8.7.55 def Woori Yallock 7.6.48

• Best: Kane Thompson, Ryley Monkhorst, Jordan Williams, Hamish Gemmill, Benjamin Monkhorst, Zach Monkhorst.

Reserves

Seventh place Woori Yallock faced second place Monbulk, and despite the big gap on the ladder, the weather made it a closer tussle than expected and the determined Tigers took it up to the hosts. A six goal straight first quarter by the Hawks established a margin of 3 to 5 goals that was maintained to the final siren.

• Monbulk 11.4.70 def Woori Yallock 5.9.39

• Best: Caleb Lee, Archie Christie, Sam Carlton, Tom Kear, Callum Scott, Pierce Jenkin

Under 18s

The Hawks were sitting winless and last on the

Yallock. (Anthea Heagney)

ladder and looking for their first scalp of 2025. They had been training well and considered Woori Yallock as beatable.

Monbulk played a scintillating first half and by early in the third term had kicked the first ten goals of the match.

The Tigers fought back to kick six of the last

ten goals but it was the Hawks who celebrated a 50 point win in opening their account for the year.

Monbulk moves to eighth and will have a bye this week.

• Monbulk 14.9.93 def Woori Yallock 6.7.43

• Best: Noah Dare, Zack Robinson, Lincoln Dunne, Lewis Player, Archie Christie, Callum Hobbins

NETBALL

A Grade:

Woori Yallock (5th) and Monbulk (2nd) would play a fast paced match where Monbulk managed an 11 goal win.

• Monbulk 58 def Woori Yallock 47

• Best: Amber Thorn, Gaby Clarke, Chelsea Smith

B Grade

Woori Yallock dethroned Monbulk this week in a tight match that saw Monbulk without some of their best. Last week Monbulk scored 94 goals.

It was a very even contest with only a few goals separating the sides throughout.

When the final siren sounded the Tigers emerged victorious by a single goal as the Hawks dropped to second on the ladder.

• Woori Yallock 46 def Monbulk 45.

• Best: Amy Roncali, Monique Brown, Holly Dunlop

C Grade

The Hawks and Tigers were fifth and sixth on the ladder respectively and an even duel was anticipated.

Woori Yallock grabbed an early lead which they were able to maintain to the end.

• Woori Yallock 38 def Monbulk 33

• Best: Grace Sibley, Jessica Ford, olivia ross

D Grade

The Hawks were setting their sights on finals pre-season but were sitting mid-table with a 2-2 record as they came up against top team Woori Yallock.

Playing their best netball this year, Monbulk burst from the blocks to score 12 to 2 in the opening quarter.

The lead got out to 15 before the Tigers pegged back some pride in the last.

• Monbulk 36 def Woori Yallock 26

• Best: Zoe Ford, Remmi Corbett, Rebecca Jackson Under 17s

Woori Yallock u17s managed to make easy work of Monbulk.

Woori Yallock played Monbulk for the second consecutive week and it produced a similar result to last week as Monbulk went down by eleven goals.

Monbulk play a good game at times but are battling to find consistency across the games.

• Woori Yallock 28 def Monbulk 17

• Best: Ryley Mortimore, Ayla Spencer, Lily Hutson Under 15s

Monbulk Maroon came up against Woori Yallock. The Maroons scored an emphatic win, taking control of the game after quarter time.

• Monbulk Maroon 29 def Woori Yallock 10

• Best: Charlotte Piggott, Miami Rowland, Lexi O’Neill

Warburton Burras clinching victories across the board

By Alex Wood

Another home game on the weekend, hosting Alexandra. A glimpse into the wintry conditions, as it was a wet and cold Saturday.

17s Netball had a competitive game, they had a strong lead at half time with a score of 17-10. But Alexandra fought back and got the game close. Burras took the win by two goals.

Maddie Loveless, Amarli Weir and Rylee Bond were top performers. Maddie put up 19 goals and Chloe with five.

D Grade had another strong start with a eight goal lead heading into the second half.

They managed to continue the momentum and gain more of a lead to have a final score of 37-14.

Amy Morris, Mel Hancock and Tamin Crunden were top players. Mel Hancock shot 19 goals, Tayah Humphrey with 11 and Tiahn Syme with seven.

C grade on next, and had a four goal lead in the first quarter.

They continued strongly, finding their rhythm and went into the last quarter with a 15 goal lead.

They finished the game with a 51-27 final score, with Tayla Ferguson putting up 30 goals,

Cam Holland with 12 and Sienna Muir with nine.

Cam Partel, Tayla Ferguson and Teagan Adams were awarded top performers.

B Grade took the court next, and had a 25 to 12 half time lead.

They came out stronger in the second half and finished the game with a 58-20 final score.

Amanda Finn shooting 31 goals, Tanner McCurdy with 19 and Monique Lee with eight.

Amanda Finn, Gemma Langdon and Gabby Woods were top performers.

A Grade finished off the netball, keeping Alexandra to 8 goals in the first half, and shooting 30 for themselves.

The second half was much the same, finishing with a thankful score of 68-16.

Jordana Butcher shot 38 goals, Bianca Daniels with 21 and Karly Wappett with nine.

Jordana Butcher, Jessie Hare and Selina Fotia were top players for the game.

Under 18s Footy started the morning on the oval.

A close first half of footy with the boys going into half time with a seven point lead.

Both teams fought hard but Warby managed to get the upper hand and grab some momentum.

7.6-48 to 3.9-27 was the final score with Nate Lucas kicking two goals, Zane Wunhym, Blayden Tamme, Williams Hin, Reece Irvine and Kobe Wunhym all kicking one each.

Kai Harrison, Romanee Martin, Max Blunt, Max Crunden, Pat Crunden and Williams Hin all were star players.

Reserves on next with another close start, also.

They went into the half time break with a one goal lead.

Alexandra fought hard in the third quarter and went into the last break with a one point lead. The Burras fought hard and got the game back in their hands.

The finished with a nice win 7.6-48 to 4.6-30.

Matt Sidari kicked three goals, Marcel Kocher with two, Damien Egan and Dale Morris both got one each.

Marcel Kocher, Dale Morris, Hudson Semple, Ben Gray, Ricky Andueza and Jackson Blake all performed well.

Seniors finished off the cold day with a strong game ahead of them.

They both came out tough but Burras went into the half time break with a 6.8-44 to 3.5-23 lead.

They picked up more pace in the second half and finished with a 15.13-103 to 8.10-58 win.

Liam Westlake kicked five goals, Jack Farrugia, Brock Caneva and Bailey Humphrey all got two and Tom Barr, Brayden Woolridge, Lachlan Hewitt and Patty Huynh all secured one goal each.

Ben Pretty, Pat Huynh, Liam Westlake, Brock Caneva, Tom Barr and Tom Baker all were top performers.

Monbulk’s Mitch Veit takes mark of the day in the Seniors against Woori

Photo of Gemma Langdon from netball B grade team. (Supplied)

Wandin showed no mercy against Healesville. (File)

Ladder leader is too strong

By Steve Ebbels

Round 6 for Healesville Football Netball Club kicked of this week with our Senior Women taking on Belgrave at Don Road Complex under lights on Friday night.

Coming of a bye last week, Healesville senior women were keen to get back playing.

Healesville looked to be in control of the game from the first bounce but whilst holding Belgrave scoreless in the first quarter only managed to score 1.2.8 themselves.

The second quarter saw Healesville continue their dominance only allowing Belgrave a single point whilst putting on 3.3 themselves to go into the main break leading 4.4.28 to 0.1.1.

The second half panned out similar to the first and whilst neither team managed to score any majors in the last quarter Healesville went on to comprehensively win 6.10.46 to 0.3.3.

Best on for Healesville A.Caldicott, P.Pavic, M. Cameron, M.Willemsen, A.Dalhsen, I.Stock.

For the rest of Healesville footballers and netball teams, it was off to Wandin for what was going to be a real test for all Healesville teams.

First up on the football front was the U18’s.

With both teams sitting on three wins and one loss, this game was looking like being a great contest.

The first quarter saw both teams have their fair share of the football, but Wandin made the better of their time with football and went into the first break 4.3.27 to Healesville’s 2.2.14.

The second quarter saw Healesville just outscore Wandin and reduce the halftime margin to just 10 points.

The third quarter and Wandin had seven scoring shots to Healesville’s one but luckily for Healesville boys’ inaccuracy by Wandin meant they only kicked 1.6 to Healesville’s one goal straight and the score at three quarter time Wandin 7.13.55 to Healesville 6.3.39.

The last quarter saw Healesville dig deep and kick the next three goals to take a two-point lead with only a few minutes left in the game.

With majority of play at Wandin’s end in the last few minutes of the game, the crowd was on the edge of their seats and when Wandin missed their second shot at goal scores were all tied up with under a minute to go.

Healesville managed to hold on to the Footy long enough to prevent Wandin scoring again but time was against them in getting back down their end.

The game ending in a draw.

At the same time over on the netball courts Healesville B grade ladies were taking on third place on the ladder Wandin.

The day was going to prove to be another really tough day on the court for the Healesville girls with Wandin dominating every quarter to run out winners 73 to 7.

Best for Healesville A.McMaster, E.Roberts, Z.Vandenbroeck.

Next up on court Healesville A graders.

Once again looking to show that they can be competitive in Premier division, Healesville girls didn’t disappoint.

Although they fought really hard and played well, Wandin were just to good and went into the halftime break leading 34-18.

The third quarter saw Healesville girls dig deep show their competitiveness only losing the quarter 15 goals to Wandin’s 18, ultimately, though Wandin went on to win 71-40.

Best for Healesville H.Blackney, A.Heath, A.Stanley.

Back at the football it was the Reserves turn to take on Wandin.

With several players out from last week and

some of Healesville U18’s backing up from their hard-fought draw it was going to be tough day out for Healesville Reserve lads.

Healesville did get of to a great start winning the first centre clearance and getting the first goal early.

Although Healesville boys kept on fighting hard all day, Wandin proved to be just too strong going on to win 19.12.126 to 2.5.17.

Best for Healesville R.Cameron, M.Wallace, M. Jones, D,English, G.Houlihan, R.Bode.

Final game of the day and Healesville prepared to take on their biggest challenge thus far in Pre-

mier Division taking on the undefeated Wandin.

The first quarter was really great battle with Healesville not shying away from the contest and taking up to Wandin.

Score at the first break Wandin 3.3.21 to Healesville 1.1.7.

The next quarter went pretty much the same way with Healesville hanging there and playing some great football and staying within reach but Wandin went into the main break leading 6.9.45 to 2.2.14.

Third quarter again saw Healesville battled to stay in touch with a very well disciplined, well

Wandin

Score at three quarter time, Wandin 9.14. 68 to Healesville 5.4.28.

Unfortunately, the last quarter saw a very valiant Healesville team run out of steam and, being reduced to only one player on the bench through a few injuries, Wandin ran away with the game kicking nine goals in the last quarter to ultimately win 18.19.127 to 5.4.34.

Now Healesville have seen the benchmark, they know where they need to work to get to. Best for Healesville C.Frazzetto, C.Warren, L.Warner, N.Mende, B.Murphy, A.Biddiscombe.

Yarra Glen Veterans break through for season’s first win

By David Ball

The Yarra Glen Vets team travelled to Officer on Friday night for their second game for the season with both teams looking for their first win.

The River Pigs started well, with their rucks on top and plenty of drive coming from their skipper in Ricky Bateman.

It proved difficult to score as the kicks into the forward 50 missed their targets.

A good goal from Liam Bull opened the account and at quarter time Yarra Glen held a slender lead.

The second quarter was a good one for Yar-

ra Glen as they increased their lead.

Tommy Matthews was dominating in the midfield and with the defence on top Yarra Glen seemed in control.

Officer lifted their intensity in the third and kicked a couple of goals to be within a kick at the last change.

With a big effort needed in the last to reverse the momentum, the River Pigs worked hard to take control.

Brenda James up forward was providing plenty of spark as the Yarra Glen boys went on to notch their first win of the season, beating Officer, 6.10 to 3.7.

It was a great team effort with best players

being Tom Matthews, Ricky Bateman, Brendan James, Beau Hawkins, Jamie Derksen and Matt McKenzie.

This Saturday Yarra Glen takes on the undefeated Pakenham Lions at Yarra Glen in the 11th Pride Cup match.

With four games of netball starting at 10.15 and four games of Footy, with the U18’s kicking off the day at 10.50am, it will be a great day of sport.

Make sure you all get along to support diversity and inclusion.

Yarra Glen is proud to have founded the Pride Cup and look forward to seeing you all on Saturday at Yarra Glen Recreation Reserve.

drilled

outfit.

Healesville A Grade Netballer Mia Erickson in action against Wandin. (Supplied)

Tommy Matthews kicking Yarra Glen deep into attack. (Supplied)

Win for Olinda-Ferny Creek

By Armin Richter

Football

Premier Division

Seniors: Emerald 13.11.89 def Officer 6.12.48; Monbulk 8.7.55 def Woori Yallock 7.6.48; Upwey-Tecoma 9.7.61 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 9.6.60; Wandin 18.19.127 def Healesville 5.4.34; Olinda-Ferny Creek 12.9.81 def Mt. Evelyn 7.10.52

Reserves: Officer 13.10.88 def Emerald 4.3.27; Monbulk 11.4.70 def Woori Yallock 5.9.39; Upwey-Tecoma 10.8.68 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 7.6.48; Wandin 19.12.126 def Healesville 2.5.17; Mt. Evelyn 18.9.117 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 3.5.23

Under 18: Monbulk 14.9.93 def Woori Yallock 6.7.43; Upwey-Tecoma 7.6.48 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 5.6.36; Wandin 7.15.57 drew Healesville 9.3.57; Mt. Evelyn 13.21.99 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 2.0.12; Officer bye

Division 1

Seniors: Pakenham 25.14.164 def Yarra Junction 0.1.1; Warburton-Millgrove 15.13.103 def Alexandra 8.10.58; Belgrave 13.12.90 def Powelltown 4.13.37; Seville 13.12.90 def Yea 3.4.22; Yarra Glen bye

Reserves: Pakenham 22.14. 146 def Yarra Junction 0.2.2; Warburton-Millgrove 7.6.48 def Alexandra 4.6.30; Belgrave 24.12.156 def Powelltown 3.1.19; Seville 16.10.106 def Yea 3.6.24; Yarra Glen bye

Under 18: Warburton-Millgrove 7.6.48 def Alexandra 3.9.27; Seville def Yea (forfeit); Pakenham + Yarra Glen bye

Women (Div 1): Healesville 6.10.46 def Belgrave 0.3.3; Mt. Evelyn 10.9.69 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 1.0.6; Upwey-Tecoma 7.6.48 def Pakenham 1.0.6; Woori Yallock bye

Women (Div 2): Wandin 3.8.26 def Thornton-Eildon 2.7.19; Seville 6.7.43 def Yea 4.4.28; Emerald 4.5.29 def Officer 1.5.11; Warburton-Wesburn bye

Veterans: Yarra Glen 6.10.46 def Officer 3.7.25; Mt. Evelyn 7.16.58 def Belgrave 5.4.34; Gembrook-Cockatoo bye

Netball

Premier Division

A Grade: Wandin 71 def Healesville 40; Emerald 56 def ROC 38; Monbulk 58 def Woori Yallock 47; Upwey-Tecoma 55 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 31; Mt. Evelyn 59 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 26

B Grade: Wandin 73 def Healesville 7; Woori Yallock 46 def Monbulk 45; Gembrook-Cockatoo 44 def Upwey-Tecoma 33; Mt. Evelyn 47 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 31; ROC 61 def Emerald 30;

C Grade: Woori Yallock 38 def Monbulk 33; Gembrook-Cockatoo 42 def Upwey-Tecoma 15; Mt. Evelyn 44 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 24; ROC 32 def Emerald 26; Wandin bye

D Grade: ROC 29 def Emerald 15; Monbulk 36 def Woori Yallock 26; Upwey-Tecoma 25 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 11; Mt. Evelyn 36 def

Olinda-Ferny Creek 21; Wandin bye

Under 17: Mt. Evelyn 37 def Wandin 29; ROC Blue 20 def Emerald 14; Woori Yallock 28 def Monbulk 17; ROC White bye

Under 15: ROC Blue 24 def ROC White 3; Monbulk Gold 19 def Pakenham Gold 18; Monbulk Maroon 29 def Woori Yallock 10; Pakenham Maroon bye Division 1

A Grade: Pakenham 67 def Yarra Junction 25; Warburton-Millgrove 68 def Alexandra 16; Belgrave 66 def Powelltown 31; Seville 81 def Yea 19; Yarra Glen bye

B Grade: Pakenham 68 def Yarra Junction 16; Warburton-Millgrove 58 def Alexandra 20; Belgrave 50 def Powelltown 36; Seville 69 def Yea 12; Yarra Glen bye

C Grade: Pakenham 44 def Yarra Junction 22; Warburton-Millgrove 51 def Alexandra 27; Belgrave 34 def Powelltown 28; Seville 61 def

D Grade: Pakenham 43 def Yarra Junction 13; Warburton-Millgrove 37 def Alexandra 14; Belgrave 17 def Powelltown 5; Seville 51 def Yea

Forecast: Cold, rainy with epic Hurricanes

By Sarah Bailey

Last Saturday’s chilly weather set the scene for tough competitions for the seniors and wellearned victories for junior squads.

Healesville U16 Hurricanes 5-0 Knox Force

The Hurricanes returned to action this week after a well-deserved break, taking on the formidable Knox Force on the first truly wintry day of the season.

Early play was tight and fiercely contested, with both teams refusing to give any ground.

Gradually, the Hurricanes gained ascendancy in the midfield, and their relentless attacking pressure paid off with a well-deserved goal by Evie T, who marked her first appearance in the side after being promoted from the U14s.

The second half saw the Hurricanes build on their advantage, with captain Hana P leading a resolute defensive effort and shutting down Knox’s key attacking threat.

On the right wing, Eloise S found some form, creating several opportunities for the Hurricanes’ forwards.

Two of those chances were expertly finished by Mahlea D and Sia M. Sia, another rising star from the U14s, capped her strong performance with an additional striker’s goal.

Mia K rounded out the scoring with a clinical finish.

Healesville U16s 4-3 MUFC

What was expected to be a big challenge and an epic game lived up to the hype.

Both teams came in undefeated, with MUFC top of the table on goal difference.

Hamish M scored in the third minute, delivering on Healesville’s aim of starting strong.

The game then settled into some back and forth, but possession leant slightly in Healesville’s favour.

Through Max J and an own goal shot by Aidan C, Healesville were 3-0 up after 15 minutes.

MUFC lifted again after this and pushed hard, securing a goal with a minute left in the half.

In the second half, both teams failed to covert for a while before MUFC struck again, but a quick reply from Aidan C saw the gap remain.

Sensing the end of the game, MUFC found another gear to score late, but Healesville saw

off the challenge and secured the top of the ladder.

Healesville U8 Red Rebels 4-0 Wattle Glen

The Rebels put in another fantastic team effort this week, with a series of passes that consistently opened up the pitch and created opportunities.

A standout moment came from a brilliant cross that led to a great goal by Jackson.

Defensively, everyone played their part, tackling and clearing the ball.

Edward and Declan did amazing goalkeeping to keep a clean sheet.

Healesville U13 Heelers 3-1 Berwick Blues

Away from home in Berwick, the Heelers had a big showing from supporting families, which really lifted the boys in the cold weather.

The Healesville side looked much more confident playing as a group this week.

The first goal was scored by Cooper S, built off of the back of a great team passing play.

Theo A won himself a penalty after a great run into the box led to a late tackle from the opposition side.

The keeper saved the penalty shot but spilled out the ball. Theo was quick to pounce on the opportunity to secure the goal.

The combination of a red card in the second half and a quick response from the home side saw the Healesville boys 2-1 up and a player down with 15 minutes remaining.

The boys managed to defend a series of attacking plays before a quick break saw Yuuki P scoring a brilliant chip shot over the keeper to finish the game 3-1.

Healesville Senior Women 1-2 Knox

On Cup day Healesville’s Senior Women came up against a strong Knox.

The team was hungry for revenge after losing a close one in the league a few weeks earlier.

Nil-all at half time was a fair score, and the second half saw Knox go 2-0 up with a couple of relatively quick goals.

With 20 minutes left, Healesville threw caution to the wind and went on the attack, creating numerous chances.

Sarah C scored with about five minutes to go, creating a high-blood-pressure finish.

Alas, there was no equaliser, and a very nervous Knox breathed a sigh of relief on the final whistle. Special mention to Caera, Ruby and Paige for a rock-solid defensive performance.

Healesville Firsts 1-1 Maroondah Utd (5-3 to Maroondah on penalties)

The first round of the Parry Cup brought a change of focus this week. In a perfect start for Healesville, Josh B scored his first of the season after great work from JJ and Johnny C.

Always threatening, Maroondah scored from a deflected shot from outside the box midway through the second half.

Healesville missed a couple of late chances to win the game, but overall a draw and penalties seemed a fair way to settle the tie.

From nine penalties taken only one was missed. Sadly for the Reds, that was enough to be knocked out of the competition.

Healesville U11 Goats 0-7 Healesville U11 Ninjas

This was a game all the boys were looking forward to, some of them facing good friends or schoolmates.

Referee Asha allowed the game to flow smoothly and had little to do.

After some initial back and forth, Max found a gap in the Goats’ defensive line and scored a lovely goal from the left side. More goals followed soon after, with the Ninjas keeping the pressure up.

Leo, Leroy and Jakob added to the score, and it was 4-0 at half time, which meant the mercy rule kicked in (much to Hayden’s dismay when he netted a spectacular header from inside the box). The second half saw the Ninjas taking shots from outside the penalty area, with Ollie (1) and the outstanding Jacob (2) rounding off the tally.

Horse Talk

By Anita Prowse

The rain finally came on the weekend, hopefully everyone got at least some of it.

Shirley Heights EC held their EA Showjumping Classic over the weekend some of the winners were:

2.1 80cms - Josh Harvey on Tally Ho Primrose.

2.1 90cms - Indiana Davidson on Buddy.

2.1 Pony 90cms - Tayla Anderson on Casino Nights.

120/125 Champion - Rhys Hamlyn on Finch Farm Carlton.

90/95 Champion - Paige Huntington on Marrfield Gloria.

2.1 110cm - Chloe Bell on Blue Rose. Congratulations to everyone and looking forward to the next one.

Upper Yarra Pony Club’s Annual Dressage Jackpot is on 31 May and 1 June with entries available now at Event Secretary, closing on Friday. A few of the classes are filling very quickly so please don’t wait until the last moment to enter.

Yea 4; Yarra Glen bye

4; Yarra Glen bye Under 17: Warburton-Millgrove 24 def Alexandra 22; Powelltown 22 def Pakenham Maroon 14; Pakenham Gold + Seville bye

Monbulk captain Pat Barge drives the Hawks forward. (Anthea Heagney)

Healesville’s U16 Hurricanes faced off against worthy opponents Knox Force on Saturday 17 May. (Supplied)

Upper Yarra Pony Club’s Annual Dressage Jackpot is on 31 May and 1 June with entries available now at Event Secretary, closing on Friday. (Supplied)

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

Clint Rose

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

Essendon - My dad said he would kick me out of the house if I didn’t, as a 4 year old that was terrifying

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

Watching or participating in sports

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

Yes, its always a challenge

4. What’s your favourite type of cuisine?

5. What are 3 words that describe you best? Positive thinker, Motivated and Curious

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

An accountant

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

Keanu Reeves, he appears to be such a down to earth guy and I reckon it would be a great conversation.

8. What advice would you offer to your younger self? Be bold with investment.