Mail - Lilydale Star Mail - 10th June 2025

By

Riding the OAM train

For 45 years Richard Knight has dedicated time and energy to his role of treasurer at the Mooroolbark Miniature Railway because of his sense of passion for both finance and trains.

And as much as his Medal of the Order of Australia recognition in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours was because of his decades of service to the railway, it was also an acknowledgement of half a lifetime of commitment to making other people’s lives that little bit better.

From the moment his wife needed blood donations during the birth of their twins, Mr Knight became a longstanding blood donor himself. And then went on to help provide voluntary transport to patients needing to get to medical appointments.

But he also found friendship and comradeship doing what he loves.

To read more, turn to page 5

Initiating the protest, alongside a petition, Not All Clubs Media put a call out to sporting clubs across Victoria to stand in solidarity and seek a reversal of the funding cuts.

Mooroolbark answered the call, with coach

Football Club’s women’s team donned two red armbands on Saturday 31 May. The red stripes were a symbol of unity among women and girls in sport after the State Governmentannouncedcutstogenderequityandinclusion funding in the 2025-26 budget.

Keryn Ralph saying they felt like they as a team had a responsibility to get behind the initiative.

“Family violence, or violence against women, is an epidemic across the nation, there’s been, what,over130womenwhohavebeenkilledsince the start of last year,” she said.

“It was something that’s a responsibility of ours, but also a responsibility of men, to really

get behind and programs that are significant across sports teams with reference to violence against women have been defunded or seen reduced funding. We also know that during times of significant sporting events, in this sporting world, violence against women also increases.” Toreadthefullstory,turntopage3.

Mikayla van Loon

Richard Knight received an OAM for 45 years of service to the outer east, most notably the Mooroolbark Miniature Railway. (Stewart Chambers: 482536)

Violi’s new whip role

Casey MP Aaron Violi has picked up a new role in the Opposition following the federal election.

Mr Violi has been appointed the Chief Opposition Whip, the person responsible for managing the party during sitting weeks, by the new Opposition Leader Sussan Ley.

Mr Violi said he is honoured to have been appointed as Chief Opposition Whip.

“It is a special responsibility to be taking on this role as the youngest whip appointed in either government or opposition in the House of Representatives in over 50 years,” he said.

“This role is crucial in facilitating the smooth running of our Parliament and ensuring we work together as a strong and effective team holding the Albanese Government to account,”

Each party has a chief whip, a deputy whip and a third whip, whose primary role is to meet with whips from other parties to plan what will be discussed during a sitting day.

Mr Violi will also be required to create the lists of party members who will speak on bills and other topics, to give to the Speaker of the House of Representatives. During a division on a vote, Mr Violi will make sure party members attend and vote together, count and record the votes and negotiate who will have to abstain from a vote if an opposing member is absent to ensure balance.

Mr Violi said he thanks Sussan Ley for placing her confidence in him

“As a party, we have a lot of work to do to rebuild and regain the trust of the Australian people,” he said.

“I look forward to working in this role with all of my colleagues to chart our path forward, while continuing to be a strong, local voice for our community.”

While sitting, Mr Violi will sit in the back behind his party so he can see which members are present and observe what is happening. Whips will move around a lot during a sitting day to speak to their colleagues, organise party activity and communicate with opposing party whips, the Clerks, and in the House of Representatives, the Speaker.

Mr Violi replaces ousted former MP for Forde Bert Van Manen in the role, who had held it since 2019.

Bowman MP Henry Pike secured the Deputy Opposition Whip role in his second term and Fadden MP Cameron Caldwell is the other Oppo-

sition Whip in his first full term after being elected in a by-election in 2023.

Lalor MP Joanne Ryan has retained her position as the Chief Government Whip that she has held since 2022, alongside the other Labor whips in the House of Representatives, Bean MP David Smith and Werriwa MP Anne Stanley.

Wages to go up

By Jacob Shteyman, AAP

Minimum wage earners will take home an extra $32 a week in pay after the industrial umpire handed nearly three million low-paid workers a wage rise above inflation.

The Fair Work Commission on Tuesday 3 Junedelivereda3.5percentpaybumpforemployees on industry awards and the minimum wage, in line with the federal government’s call for a “sustainable” real pay rise.

Thecommission’spresident,AdamHatcher, said the decision would help correct a decline in living standards for employees over the past three years.

“The principal consideration which has guided our decision is the fact that, since July 2021, employees who are reliant upon modern award minimum wages or the national minimum wage have suffered a reduction in the real value of their wage rates,” he said.

In previous years, the commission was discouraged from awarding a pay increase that would see low-paid workers catch up with rising costs because of its concerns that it could cause inflation to become more entrenched.

Now that the inflation spike was over, it was important for the commission to correct the fall in living standards, Justice Hatcher said.

“We are concerned that if this opportunity is not taken in this annual wage review, the loss in the real value of wages which has occurred will become permanently embedded in the modern awards system and the national minimum wage,” he said.

The decision follows an increase of 3.75 per cent handed out in 2024.

The new pay rates will kick in from July 1.

Casey MP Aaron Violi has been appointed as the Liberal Party’s Chief Opposition Whip. (Supplied)

Teams up in arms

By Mikayla van Loon

Victorian Government budget cuts to gender equity and inclusion in sport programs saw a collective of sporting teams across the state protest the move in an on-field display of unity.

Joining the red armband protest led by Not All Clubs Media, Mooroolbark Football Club’s senior women each donned two red armbands alongside their opponents Blackburn during their match on Saturday 31 May.

The armbands were used to protest the defunding of safety and equity in sport and to honour the 29 women who have been killed by gender-based violence in 2025.

Senior women’s coach Keryn Ralph said it felt like a responsibility of the club and the team to back the initiative.

“As a social experience, women don’t feel safe. I coach a team of young women and they’re making their way through a world that can be really unsafe for women,” she said.

“So we just felt like it was something that’s a responsibility of ours, but also a responsibility of men to really get behind.”

As someone who works in the drug and alcohol field, where she engages with a lot of women who experience family violence, Keryn said it was “an extremely important cause” to highlight the defunding of programs directly linked with violence prevention in sport and community.

The Office for Women in Sport and Recreation (OWSR) and the Preventing Violence Through Sport Grants Program were both axed when newly appointed Treasurer Jaclyn Symes handed down the 2025-26 budget on Tuesday 20 May.

OWSR was an Australian-first subdivision of the sport and recreation portfolio dedicated to increasing female participation and equality in sport and administered the Change Our Game Program.

The Preventing Violence Through Sport Grants Program provided funding to clubs and recreation organisations to address violence and its prevention.

A Victorian government spokesperson told the ABC it would “always support women and girls’ participation in sport and recreation”.

“The functions of the Office for Women in Sport and Recreation will continue to be held within Sport and Recreation Victoria,” they said.

But a Not All Clubs Media spokesperson said “these weren’t just initiatives”, that the programs and having a dedicated office for women in sport was a “commitment to cultural change and violence prevention”.

“These cuts remove the only state-funded efforts focused on making sport safer and more inclusive for women, girls, and gender diverse people,” they said.

“At a time when violence against women is rising, defunding these vital programs is putting people at risk. Sexism and gender-based violence in sport and across the wider community will grow - more women will be pushed out of the game, severing vital community links.”

Calling on the State Government to reinstate the OWSR, fund violence prevention programs in sport and commit to a long-term strategy to ensure sport is safe and equal, Not All Clubs started a petition garnering over 1200 signatures and initiating the red armband protest.

“Our red armband protest sent a clear message: we won’t stay silent while progress is erased and our safety ignored,” they said.

The protest saw clubs from South Croydon to Mordialloc, Sandhurst to Darebin wear the red stripes in a show of solidarity.

Although what the defunding of these programs means is yet to be fully understood, Keryn said from a club and broader perspective, she hoped it wasn’t a backwards step in the momentum gained in women’s sport.

“Our club at Mooroolbark is extremely supportive of our women’s program. We had programs that ran last year around inclusivity, around gender equality and gender equity,” she said.

“I can only speak for my sporting club but if that funding goes then it is possible our club isn’t able to move forward in that space either.

“We’ve only been a senior women’s team for probably the last three to four years, and we had

a vets women’s team the year before that. It’s only five years that we’ve been here, so it’s pretty new, and we felt like we were getting really great momentum with gender equity at our club as well.

“We would hate, across all clubs we play against as well, for that to stall.”

Keryn said, however, that Mooroolbark would continue to push for inclusivity, gender equity and prevention of violence as a club.

“I’d like us to be a club that is a destination club that people want to go to because we’ve got really great values and a really great culture.

“That is something we’re driving, and I think with getting behind causes like what we did on the weekend, like what we do in reconciliation week and for diverse communities, that’s an area I’d really like to continue to develop at the club as well.”

The petition can be found at, change.org/p/ save-our-game-reverse-vic-govt-cuts-to-genderequity-violence-prevention-in-sport

IN BRIEF

Correction In the 3 June edition of Star Mail, a headline on page 4 stated ‘Coldstream’s Oakridge Wines shuts down’. This was an error and should have said ‘Oakridge’s restaurant shuts down’.

Safe snow travel

Police are looking forward to this year’s snow season and are issuing a reminder to the community about the importance of planning ahead to ensure a safe trip for all.

Last year, 1471 vehicles were turned back at Mt Hotham alone for failing to carry legally required wheel chains, placing themselves and others at serious risk on icy roads.

Eastern Region Division Four superintendent Joy Arbuthnot said police turn back 15 people a day for driving without snow chains.

“Without snow chains, your car simply won’t grip on icy roads. We’ve seen cars slide off the edge of mountainsides, families stranded in dangerous conditions, and collisions that could have been avoided.

“If you arrive without snow chains or the proper preparation, you’ll be turned around.”

With a growing number of people travelling to the snow for single-day trips, police have seen many arriving without understanding the road rules, weather risks or equipment requirements for alpine travel.

Police and authorised officers will again be conducting checks across key routes into alpine resorts including Mt Buller, Mt Hotham, Falls Creek, Mt Baw Baw, Lake Mountain and Mt Stirling.

A zero-tolerance approach will be adopted for drivers who are not properly equipped for the conditions.

All vehicles entering alpine areas during the declared snow season are required by law to carry wheel chains and fit them when instructed. Failing to carry chains may result in a $395 fine, while failing to fit them when required may attract a $988 penalty.

Seasonal road closures

Visitors to Victoria’s parks and forests are being reminded that temporary road and track closures will come into effect on Tuesday June 10. The annual closures make it safer for motorists and reduce damage to remote roads impacted by heavy rain and snow.

The majority of the road closures locally in the Port Phillip region are in the Yarra State Forest, near Warburton and Powelltown, and Paul Range State Forest, north of Healesville and Yarra Glen. Forest Fire Management Victoria, Parks Victoria, and the Conservation Regulator enforce seasonal closures between June and November annually.

Last year, there were more than 307 gate breaches, and over 700 instances of illegal vehicle use across Victoria’s parks and forests.

In 2024, 140 infringement notices under the Conservation (Vehicle Control) Regulations were issued, including for driving cars or riding trail bikes illegally off-road or in restricted areas.

Offenders caught driving or riding on a closed road in Victoria’s parks and forests face a maximum penalty of up to $3846 if prosecuted in court.

For more go to: ffm.vic.gov.au/permits-and-regulations/closures-of-parks-and-forests

For emergency information, including severe weather alerts and warnings, download the VicEmergency app. Environmental crime can be reported to 136 186.

244 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville, 3777 General

Mooroolbark and Blackburn’s leadership group, alongside their teammates, wore red armbands in protest at the 31 May game. (Supplied)

Honour strikes high note

By

A Coldstream resident has been bestowed with a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division this King’s Birthday.

Kenneth Bruce Rowland AM, who goes by Bruce, was given the accolade for his ‘significant service to music as a composer, arranger and conductor’.

Mr Rowland said he wasn’t quite sure yet how to feel, but it came as quite a shock.

“I’m very flattered and it’s something that I’ve always admired, the idea of something rather like that, I just never ever thought it would actually be me and I got it through music, which is just what I do for a living, which is nice,” he said.

I got this basically for The Man from Snowy River I think but I don’t know, it was something, when I had the task to write the music for that, I wanted it to be really Australian,” he said.

“I wanted it to be really importantly Australian, because no one had ever done this, or if they had, they hadn’t really done it properly, they always treated it as being a little thing but it was never a little thing, it was a big thing, and I just loved doing it.”

While composing the award-winning score for The Man From Snowy River might have catapulted Mr Rowland’s career and be one of his most memorable productions, his list of work and accolades certainly isn’t short.

Awards-wise, Mr Rowland has received: Australasian Performing Right Association (APRA)’s International Achievement Award, Screen Music Awards, 2005.

APRA Best Score, The Mysterious Geographic Explorations of Jasper Morello, Screen Music Awards, 2005.

APRA Best Score, Man from Snowy River IIReturn to Snowy River, 1989.

APRA Best Score, Phar Lap, 1985.

APRA Best Score, The Man from Snowy River, 1984.

APRA Member, since 1962.

Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA) Awards Co-Winner, Best Original Music Score, Rebel, 1985.

AACTA Best Original Music Score, Phar Lap, 1983.

AACTA Best Original Music Score, The Man from Snowy River, 1982.

Mr Rowland said he thinks it’s important to have Australian creative arts out in the world and be reflective of Australia.

“Just to let the rest of the world know that

we’re not just a sunburnt country, we do have a brain, we can think and we can deliver, I think that’s important,” he said.

“Particularly at the moment because it’s very quiet, there’s very little new projects happening that I’m aware of, now I don’t know if it’s a shortage of money or a shortage of impetus or what I don’t know, but I’ve never known it to be this quiet for this long,”

“Whether it’s going to brighten up, of course it always does, it’s always a bit like up and down in every situation like that but if there’s any big projects in the industry happening, you normally hear about it.”

Before working in film, Mr Rowland’s early work was in advertising and television, composing ‘The Go!! Show’ in the 1960s where he worked and toured with The Strangers, composing for children’s shows Magic Circle Club and Adventure Island and writing over 2000 advertising jingles.

Mr Rowland said moving on to motion pictures was what he always wanted to do, and encouraged aspiring creatives to have a go too, as even if you are in over your head, you’ll learn to swim quickly.

“It’s just a case of if you are in the right place

at the right time, it’s as simple as that, (The Man From) Snowy River to me was wonderful, I really enjoyed it because I just had an opportunity to do what I thought was right for the film, and I did,” he said.

“When I did it, a lot of people thought ‘Oou made it all sound really big and huge’ and I said it is, we were just meek and wild Australians, and sometimes we don’t even think that what we’ve just achieved is important,”

“Some things like that are important, they’re not just folk tunes and folk songs, it’s an important part of our history, and no one had ever treated it like that before.

Mr Rowland’s other films, television series and live performances include: The Cup, 2011. Prey, 2007. Flash, 1997.

Tidal Wave: No Escape, 1997. North Star, 1996.

The Great Elephant Escape, 1995. Andre, 1994. Lightning Jack, 1994. Tracks of Glory, 1994. Gross Misconduct, 1993. Fast Getaway, 1991.

Peter’s fight to improve firefighter health

By Mikayla van Loon

Combining years of medical training with his experience as a volunteer firefighter, Montrose’s Peter Langridge helped revolutionise the CFA’s health monitoring practices over two decades.

It was this that led him to receiving the prestigious Australian Fire Service Medal in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours.

“It was a bit of a surprise when I first heard about it, and I’ll put it this way, I’m honoured by it and I’m a bit lost for words,” he said.

Implementing methods of counteracting dehydration, cooling firefighters on the verge of heat stress and setting up rehab teams across the state to respond to fire events has all been actioned based on the work and research Mr Langridge has conducted since 2003.

A trained ambulance officer, Mr Langridge joined the ambulance service in 1985 and worked in this field for 11 years.

He was then contracted by the CFA to help in training before being asked to attend the 2003 Eastern Victorian Alpine bushfires to assess what was happening on the ground.

“It was based around heat stress, smoke inhalation and some other things that were cropping up out there.

“We did six weeks of research up there and came back. That’s where it started with CFA, we had the answers because we were able to spend that amount of time on fire ground and be able to try things, and from there on, it just escalated.”

One of the first things assessed was the reason for the dehydration - put down to not only physical exertion but the wearing of protective clothing in addition to high temperatures.

“A lot of it was due to the heat and people sweating and losing their electrolyte balances, which can stop the absorption of fluid through

the body. So we trialled some particular electrolytes, and that actually worked, “ Mr Langridge said.

From that moment on, during each fire season, Mr Langridge and team members would be out on fire grounds doing health checks and monitoring risks.

When the Hazelwood mine fires of 2004 and 2008 occurred, Mr Langridge said there were “extra risks associated with that with carbon monoxide” because the fire was smouldering underground.

By the time the 45-day Hazelwood fire happened in 2014, the CFA had a plan they enacted and had invested in a device which could read the carbon monoxide content in the blood.

In 2011-12 new structural protective clothing was introduced but because of the weight of the fabric and the heat of building fires, heat stress cases increased.

“We had to find a way to resolve that one, which we did, using a particular type of chair that we got in from the States called a cool chair.

“We just sit them in the chair and the arms on it have bags. We top those bags up with water, and they just put their arms in, and that actually cools the blood that’s going back into the core of the body and drops the core temperature.”

The introduction of volunteer based health response teams also occurred in 2012, which now sports 23 units across the state including one in Yellingbo, all under the management of Mr Langridge.

These rehab crews do the health checks for hydration, smoke inhalation and heat stress, and provide snacks, water and electrolytes, as well as the cooling chairs, to a rotation of firefighters before they return to the fire ground.

“It’s about a 20 minute period that these people are sitting in the chairs with their arms in the

Which Way Home, 1991. The Last Apache, 1990. Weekend with Kate, 1990. Bad Baby Amy, 2002. Ponderosa, 2001-2002. Journey to the Center of the Earth, 1999. Tribe, 1999. Little Elvis Jones, 1997. McKenna, 1994-1995. Aladdin, 1994. Anzacs, 1985. All the Rivers Run, 1983. Music Composer and Conductor, Main Title theme, The Man from Snowy River, Opening Ceremony, Sydney 2000 Sydney Olympic Games.

Australian Outback Spectacular, Village Roadshow, 2006-2014 and 2017. The Man from Snowy River: Arena Spectacular, 2002. Chinois (Chinese Musical Stage Production), 1998.

water, which does actually cool down the core.

“They’re going to go back in anyway, if the job is big enough and long enough, but it’s a way of interrupting the progression of heat stress to a point where it isn’t dangerous.”

Mr Langridge said his ambulance training has been invaluable to his role, not only in the medical sense but because it taught him that “we’ve got a responsibility to ensure our people are safe”.

It was also Mr Langridge’s ability to understand the stressors and challenges firefighters face, as one himself, that helped inform the strategies now embedded in the CFA.

“Having both the ambulance experience and then as a volunteer firefighter, it gave me the opportunity to look at what we’re doing, how we’re doing it, and what was causing the problems,” he said.

“Sometimes you really need to be part of it to understand how things work.”

Starting his volunteering journey first with Lilydale in 1982 and then Mooroolbark, Mr Langridge set up the District 13 Headquarters Brigade, where he was captain for seven years, a place for the first of the rehabbing teams to establish.

“I’d looked at (volunteering) over a number of years because as a young person we went through the 1962 bush fires and nearly lost our property…when I got to Lilydale, I thought, ‘Well, might as well try it’.

“It was a good decision, because I learned so much in the time…and I understood what the members went through.”

He is now a member of the Yellingbo CFA which has a dedicated rehabilitation unit servicing the outer east.

Bruce Rowland AM has been awarded a Member of the Order of Australia. (Callum Ludwig: 483057)

Bruce Rowland AM is best known for composing scores of films like The Man From Snowy River and Phar Lap. (Callum Ludwig: 483057)

Bruce Rowland AM on his Coldstream property. (Callum Ludwig: 483057)

Callum Ludwig

Peter Langridge received the Australian Fire Service Medal in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours. (Stewart Chambers: 482879)

All aboard the OAM train

By

Richard Knight is a name very much associated with the Mooroolbark Miniature Railway as a founding member, but the honour of an OAM was bestowed upon him for his service to the whole outer east.

Recognised for his 44 years as a B-negative blood donor who has made 162 donations, his transportation of over 2000 patients as a voluntary transport driver, his 45 years of service as treasurer for the railway and nine years as treasurer of the Mooroolbark Men’s Shed, Mr Knight said his service has combined all the things he enjoys most.

“I’ve done a lot over my life, I suppose, so it’s nice to be acknowledged,” he said.

As a young man, Mr Knight was attracted to numbers and finances, noticing a skill for keeping everything in balance.

“I initially started out as a 15-year-old looking after the finances for the Waverley Senior Scout Group and then went on to the rover scouts, and was also the treasurer there. That led me to my career,” he said.

Pursuing accountancy as a career, Mr Knight fell into a role with Eastern Health, looking after all the assets and planning the budgets for the five hospitals.

“It’s a bit of a challenge, finance, if it’s like doing Sudoku or something, you know when you’ve got the challenge to make it all balanced and look beautiful and pretty. So that’s what I was very good at in my career,” Mr Knight said.

So in 1979, when the then Lilydale Shire Council purchased a five inch gauge locomotive, track and some carriages, Mr Knight saw an opportunity to combine two of his passions - trains and finance.

Initially filling a spot as auditor on the railway committee in 1980, when the inaugural treasurer left after just a few months in the role, Mr Knight stepped in and never looked back.

“My hobby is building miniature railway

locomotives. So I’ve finished five and I’ve got three more, some of them are taking nearly 30 years, but I’m still persevering with them.

“We always had trains, since I was about eight years old. Even little train sets when we first started, I’ve still got them here at home, so I’ve had them for more than 60 years, that’s my hobby. That’s what I do. It’s what makes me get out of bed in the morning.

“Building a little locomotive you’ve got to overcome problems, if something doesn’t fit properly, you’ve got to go and re-machine it or re-work on it sort of thing to get it done.”

In 45 years as a member of the miniature railway, Mr Knight has seen it go from a patch of dirt in Mooroolbark to a well-loved community attraction, adored by children and adults alike.

“The number of people we have come down there on our normal monthly run day wasn’t many to start with,” he said.

“We used to only have a donation, but now that we’ve expanded, we’ve got over a kilometre of mainline track, the number of people who come on the run day to have picnics and barbecues and birthday parties for young children is just unbelievable.

“Probably 500 people would come through on a normal run day.”

Seeing the children’s smiling faces, especially coming to know Mr Knight’s locomotive as the “Barbie train” because he places her as the train’s driver, makes it all worthwhile.

And if decades of volunteering at the railway as treasurer wasn’t enough, in 2016 Mr Knight joined the Mooroolbark Men’s Shed in that same role, something he continues to do today.

“It’s very good for men that are all retired and all sitting at home doing nothing sort of thing, to all come together.

“We have some brilliant men, cabinet makers, fitters and turners, and we’ve even had lecturers at Box Hill TAFE college training carpentry apprentices who are all part of the Moo-

roolbark Men’s Shed and some of the products, the craft items that they make are absolutely beautiful.”

But more than that, Mr Knight said both clubs provide incredible friendships.

For Mr Knight, giving back to the community started as a personal response and desire to help but quickly snowballed into joining his passions together.

“When my wife had two children, we had twins, she required blood donations. This was in 1973 and in 1977 I thought, ‘we’ve got to repay what we’ve used’ and then became a blood

donor.

“The rest of it, I think, is that I enjoy donating. I enjoy the finance, the accountancy. And I enjoy the miniature railway and the comradeship of both the men’s shed and the railway club.

“It’s a great honour. I didn’t expect this to be quite honest. I don’t know who’s nominated me, but obviously someone has.

“44 years donating blood and being the treasurer for any organisation is a long time, more than half of my life. So I guess it is nice to be acknowledged by my peers.”

Richard Knight was honoured with a King’s Birthday OAM for his service to the Mooroolbark Miniature Railway and to the outer east. (Stewart Chambers: 482536)

Mikayla van Loon

Event funding in limbo

By Mikayla van Loon

The future of a major Yarra Ranges mental health fundraising event hangs in the balance after its biggest private sponsor pulled its funding.

She Won’t Be Right Mate’s annual fundraising event, a car show and family day, is scheduled for December in Yarra Glen but its organisers fear this may not be possible without significant financial backing.

Event founder Marcus Reeves and marketing manager Bec Gilbert said they’ve “pounded the pavement” sending emails and making calls to businesses and potential sponsors but to no avail.

“Times are tricky and we haven’t found the right match for our major event partner in 2025,” they said.

“The good news is that we have had some amazing support offered from previous sponsors, local businesses, vendors and community groups, but so far, it’s just not enough to run our event, even at a trimmed capacity.”

The major sponsorship helps cover the upfront costs of insurance, venue hire and logistics, which as a volunteer organisation that gives all its profits to charity is difficult to do on their own.

Seeking support in any form, whether directly through funding or just by sharing the call out for help, Marcus and Bec said it could be the difference in this event happening or not.

“One share, one introduction could save the event.

“This is your chance to help us continue raising much needed funds, breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and changing lives.”

A passion project of Marcus’, She Won’t Be Right Mate evolved from his own experiences with mental health and addiction which saw him engage in services provided by Eastern Health.

Since the first event in 2019, She Won’t Be Right Mate has donated over $80,000 to the Eastern Health Foundation supporting its mental health programs and initiatives.

Last year’s event raised $23,000 alone towards this important cause.

“Mental health adversary and suicide rates are skyrocketing because of the stigma attached to sharing our feelings, opening up or getting help when we are struggling. Our goal is to get the conversation started and let people know it’s all right to not be alright,” Marcus said.

“If this event helps one person out of the darkness then we have all contributed to saving someone’s life.”

Wanting to bring everyone back together again on 6 December at the Yarra Glen Racecourse for a day of entertainment, with car exhibitors, live music and food trucks, Marcus and Bec are keen to hear from the community.

“We can’t run the 2025 event without your help. “Fundraising is difficult in this climate, times

really need it. And reduce the statistics.” To find out more, visit shewontberightmate. net.au

those who

Tourism industry reflects on a ‘tough year’

By Callum Ludwig

The Yarra Ranges’ diverse tourism industry came together on Wednesday 4 June for the annual Yarra Ranges Tourism Summit.

Despite a ‘tough year’ for the industry, many representatives of local businesses attended the event at the RACV Country Club and Resort in Healesville for the chance to get ideas, network and prepare for the year ahead.

Yarra Ranges Tourism chief executive Simon O’Callaghan said it was an outstanding patronage at the summit.

“This is an event that’s become a real staple of the tourism industry calendar for the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges and I think the turnout today really emulates what we’re all about,” he said.

“We’re about working together and working as a collective to essentially help support local jobs and local businesses,”

“The theme today ‘Beyond Breakeven’ was very much about giving people some tools that they can take away to their business that they can implement now, no matter what their circumstances they find themselves in, we want them to go away with a little tool bag of ideas, inspiration and hopefully actionable outcomes that can help with their profitability.”

Having grown from a smaller event, the Yarra Ranges Tourism Summit is now a full-day event, starting at 9.30am, filled with guest speakers and a rundown from Yarra Ranges Tourism representatives and with catered morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea.

Despite the tough conditions facing tourism businesses in the last year with the high cost of living causing potential visitors to tighten their purse strings, Mr O’Callaghan said they are still seeing a ‘collegiate’ spirit and there is room for optimism.

“When trade is soft, people have to continue to innovate and continue to find new ways to inspire the visitor to come, there’s an old saying that ‘the harder you work, the luckier you get’and I think we see lots of examples of that across the region,” he said.

“We’re seeing some new announcements of new products that are going to be opening in the future like Burnham Beeches, that’ll be a really important product and hotel for the Dandenong Ranges in particular,”

“We’ve got the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination that’s coming online in the next month, there’s a lot of long-term projects that are also going to open and coming to fruition which are going to help every small business in the region.”

After a Welcome and Welcome to Country, Yarra Ranges Tourism Chair Leigh Harry gave an update, followed by a presentation by Professor Arnold Dix who spoke about the place the mindset engineering could play in helping tourism operators.

After morning tea, Tourism Australia’s Kristy Malapa gave an update on their work, 2023 Lynette Bergin Tourism Excellence Award winner Maddy Sawyer presented on the merits of Community Centric Tourism Development before Mr O’Callaghan and Euan McDonald-Madden of Yarra Ranges Tourism showcased where and how

travellers to the Yarra Ranges are booking, with a particular focus on social media, AI and other digital transformation are driving visitor numbers.

Yarra Ranges Tourism also presented Leanne De Bertoli of De Bortoli Wines and Valerie Campbell-Wemyss and Jeremy Francis from CloudeHill Garden and Nursery each with an award recognising their contributions to the local tourism industry.

Mr O’Callaghan said he thinks in any business you’ve got to stop and celebrate your successes.

“In a small way today we’ve recognised three individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the region and we hope that their contribution inspires others to be like them,” he said.

“They’ve been there in the trenches supporting other colleagues, supporting young people, supporting jobs and that matters to communities,

and that’s why the tourism industry is important to this region, it supports the community.”

A provision for the Victorian Minister for Tourism Steve Dimopoulos was left but he was unable to attend, though Shadow Minister for Tourism Sam Groth did attend in the morning.

After lunch, Alva Hemming and a panel from Go Beyond Melbourne put a spotlight on some tourism success stories from across their regions (Phillip Island, Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges and Geelong and The Bellarine) followed by regional tourism consultant Karen Oliver who focused on the importance of creating high-value visitor experiences. The day was concluded by entrepreneur and small business mentor Amanda Rose sharing some stories of success when businesses collaborate and a Q and A.

Mr O’Callaghan said it is a great thing to be in business and everyone who’s in small business needs a medal of their own because it’s hard work, but it’s very rewarding.

“When you work in regional Victoria, you don’t always get the luxury to spend educating and inspiring yourself to remain fresh and relevant in your own business,” he said.

“What we hope to do with the summit is bring everyone into that one location where they can feed off the energy in the room,”

“We try and bring a diverse range of speakers who can really give them some lessons to apply in their own businesses and ultimately we want them to go away and just be energised about being in business.”

are tough, and sponsorship is tricky, but we are not afraid of hard work, and we know that this event and your support helps us reach

She Won’t Be Right Mate founder and director Marcus Reeves said even the prospect of helping one person makes the event worthwhile. (Supplied)

The car show at Yarra Glen Racecourse has become a popular event on the calendar. (Supplied)

All funds raised go towards support the Eastern Health Foundation’s mental health programs. (Supplied)

The barbecue hut volunteers. (Supplied)

Plenty were in attendance for the 2025 Yarra Ranges Tourism Summit. (Callum Ludwig: 482658)

Promising possum find

By Callum Ludwig

A landmark discovery has led to further faith for the future of the Leadbeater’s Possum.

Believed to only remain in Victorian forests, footage from wildlife cameras near the Yarrangobilly Caves in the Kosciuszko National Park in New South Wales has captured the critically endangered critter and led to hopes of another population existing.

President of the Friends of Leadbeater’s Possum Steve Meacher said they are very excited by this news.

“The fact that the species has been discovered at two sites in New South Wales, 250 kilometres from the nearest Victorian population, means that it is less likely to become extinct due to a single catastrophic event, such as a large bushfire,” he said.

“It is also encouraging that the discovery has been made in a large National Park, this underlines the importance of extensive protected areas, if the area had been available for logging in the recent past, this population could have been lost without ever being discovered,”

“However it doesn’t make any difference to the species’ critically endangered conservation status, declared in 2015, as the total number of animals remains low and their cold, wet forest habitat is vulnerable to changing climate.”

The Leadbeater’s Possum was only once known to have lived in New South Wales through the discovery of bones, believed to be up to 200 years old, found in nearby caves.

Researchers from the New South Wales government’s ecosystems and threatened species team Fred Ford and Martin Shultz made the discovery during an attempt to carry out camera trap surveys for the critically endangered smoky mouse. The possum was spotted in seven photos taken over a 10-second period, from almost a million photos taken during the survey.

Identification was confirmed by Healesville Sanctuary and the Australian National University.

Past surveys are now being reviewed to search for any other previous sightings, and Victorian methods will be used when deploying camaeas throughout the park and to form a conservation plan.

Mr Meacher said much work remains to be done.

“We are pleased that the Commonwealth Recovery Plan for the Leadbeater’s Possum was released last year and this should provide a basis for action to protect and recover the New South Wales population while further research is undertaken,” he said.

“But we note that after more than twelve months the species’ Recovery Team has still not been reconvened and this new discovery underlines the importance of urgently resuming meetingstoconsiderandrespondtotheimplications.”

Given the Leadbeater’s Possum live in breeding pairs and family groups, an unknown population must reside in the park and threatened species experts are now working to determe the habitat location, size and extent of the population. The Victorian Government will lend its expertise with the species and the New South Wales Government has also commenced the process for an expedited conservation listing of the species through the independent NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee.

“Friends of Leadbeater’s Possum Inc. congratulates Dr Fred Ford and the NSW team on their historic discovery and will do what we can to support and assist actions to protect populations in New South Wales,” Mr Meacher said.

“At the same time we continue to pursue increased protection for the Victorian population through the campaign to expand and connect protected areas in the Central Highlands, through the proposed Great Forest National Park.”

Biodiversity Council of Australia member and Australian National University ecologist Professor David Lindenmayer has spent many years monitoring the Leadbeater’s Possum, including

in the Victorian Central Highlands, as well as around the Yarrangobilly site 35 years ago while undertaking a PhD.

“Bioclimatic modelling indicated that the area should suit the Leadbeater’s Possum, so I looked for them there and in many other parts of Kosciuszko National Park, but this was before camera traps were widely available, and I was unsuccessful in detecting them,” Prof Lindemayer said in a media release.

“This discovery shows that just because a species has not been positively detected at a location, you cannot be confident that it is not there. Many of our most imperilled species are hard to detect,”

“With so little high-quality habitat left in Australia, we should do our utmost to protect remaining areas; hopefully, there will be many more wonderful discoveries ahead, especially as detection techniques improve.”

Healesville Sanctuary is teaming up with Yarra Valley icons to bring you a weekend of gourmet food and beverages in a stunning bushland setting. This year’s event helps

Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 August

A Leadbeater’s Possum has been caught on a wildlife camera near the Yarrangobilly Caves in the Kosciuszko National Park in New South Wales. (DCCEEW)

Where to pick up your FREE Star Mail

CHIRNSIDE PARK Meadowgate Milk Bar3 Meadowgate Drive

CHIRNSIDE PARK Coles Supermarket239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Woolworths Supermarket239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Caltex Safeway239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK EG Fuelco Service Station Chirnside Park Shopping

CHIRNSIDE PARK 7 - Eleven 242 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Chirnside Park Country Club 68 Kingswood Drive

CROYDON NORTH Croydon Hills Milk Bar158 Nangathan Way

CROYDON NORTH Eastfield Milk Bar11 The Mall

KILSYTH Woolworths SupermarketChuringa SC, Russo Place

KILSYTH Woolworths SupermarketCanterbury Road Kilsyth

KILSYTH Kilsyth Laundrette Unit 7/87 Colchester Road

LILYDALE Yarra Valley Soul Cafe 8 William Street East

LILYDALE Aaron Violi MP Office 110 Main Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Marketplace SC33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Village SC51-59 Anderson Street

LILYDALE Woolworths SupermarketMarketplace, 33 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Coles Supermarket Lilydale VillageCastella Street & Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Lilydale Community Centre7 Hardy Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Lakeside Conference and Events Centre1 Jarlo Drive

LILYDALE United Petrol Service Station473 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Caltex Lilydale346 Main Street

LILYDALE Caltex Woolworths31 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE BP Service Station87 Warburton Highway

LILYDALE Shell Service Station469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE 7 - Eleven LilydaleCnr Maroondah Highway & Cave Hill Road

LILYDALE Coles Express469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Hutch & Co Cafe251 Main Street

LILYDALE Round Bird Can't Fly170 Main Street

LILYDALE The Lilydale General110 Beresford Road

LILYDALE Yarra Valley Smokery96 Main Street

LILYDALE Bee Seen Cafe178 Main Street

LILYDALE Blue Turtle Cafe222 Main Street

LILYDALE Gracious GraceCastella Street

LILYDALE Melba Coffee House33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Munchies7/75 Cave Hill Road

LILYDALE Point of View CafeLilydale Lakeside - Jarlo Drive

LILYDALE Freda's Cafe2 Clarke Street

LILYDALE Barry Plant Real Estate88 Main Street

LILYDALE Ray White Real Estate164 Main Street

LILYDALE Hello Harry245 Main Street

LILYDALE Noel Jones Real Estate 281 Main Street

LILYDALE Professionals Real Estate111-113 Main Street

LILYDALE Grubs Up1 Industrial Park Drive

LILYDALE Mc Donalds RestaurantMaroondah Highway

LILYDALE Olinda Creek HotelMaroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Crown HotelMaroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Yarra Ranges Council 61 - 65 Anderson Street

MONTROSE Montrose Authorised Newsagency 912 Mt Dandenong Road

MONTROSE IGA Supermarket Mt Dandenong Road

MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road

MOUNT EVELYN Fast Fuel 1 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN IGA Supermarket 38- 40 York Road

MOUNT EVELYN Post Office 12 Station Street

MOUNT EVELYN Authorised Newsagency 1A Wray Crescent

MOUNT EVELYN Red Robyn Milk Bar 35 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN Library 50 Wray Cresent

MOUNT EVELYN Milkbar 28 Birmingham Road

MOUNT EVELYN Bendigo Bank 2/35-39 Wray Cres

MONTROSE IGA Supermarket916 Mt Dandenong Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Supermarket15 Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Bendigo BankUnit 19/66 - 74 Brice Ave

MOOROOLBARK Corner Milk Bar38 Bellara Dive

MOOROOLBARK Fang & Yaoxin Mini Mart108 Hayrick Lane

MOOROOLBARK BP Mooroolbark103 Cardigan Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Express2 Cambridge Road

MOOROOLBARK Professionals Real EstateBrice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK L J HookerBrice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Fletchers Real Estate 1/14 Manchester Road

MOOROOLBARK Mc Donalds RestaurantManchester Road

MOOROOLBARK 7-Eleven Manchester Road

MOUNT EVELYN York on Lilydale138 York Road

WANDIN NORTH Wandin Newsagency Shop 2 /18 Union Road

Students fill in the gaps

As the Yarra Ranges faces increased demand for health care workers, Diploma of Nursing students are answering the call. This year, 48 students will graduate from Box Hill Institute’s (BHI) Lilydale campus, ready to step into health care roles.

With improved standards of living, our ageing population is creating additional need for nursing support. Projections show Australia’s healthcare system will have a shortfall of over 70,000 nurses by 2035.

In response, the government has increased support to attract more people into nursing, including Free TAFE, paid placements for eligible students and a 28.4 per cent salary increase for nurses.

Launching Place resident Sara Norman left school early to pursue hairdressing but discovered her passion for nursing while caring for her mother as she battled cancer. Initially concerned about her academic ability, she was grateful to find a supportive learning environment at BHI.

“I had great teachers who saw my passion for nursing and encouraged me to learn,” Sara said.

Following her diploma, Sara decided to further her education at university, receiving a $10,000 scholarship to cover her tuition. She is proud to be the first person in her family to receive a tertiary education.

Fellow graduate, Joe Butcher, was inspired to become a nurse by his mother’s career. To test the waters, he took a course in allied health at BHI as part of his VCE and fell in love with seeing the inner workings of the operating theatre.

He then enrolled in the Diploma of Nursing as a school leaver. As a reluctant learner at school, he thrived in the supportive hands-on environment.

“Learning from the experienced nurses at

TAFE was amazing,” Joe said.

A highlight for Joe was doing a placement at the same hospital where his mother works.

“For most of my life, it was Mum, my younger brother and me. She’d come home from work exhausted but always made a huge effort. She’s been an amazing role model,” Joe said.

After graduating, he received numerous job offers and is now working at the hospital where he completed his final placement.

The Diploma of Nursing serves as an ideal entry point into the profession, catering to both school leavers and career changers looking to transition into health care.

Nursing teacher, Steffy Kavungal, said the program teaches students everything they need to know.

“The course teaches a broad range of skills, from caring for a patient’s everyday needs to complex hospital procedures,” Ms Kavungal said.

Through hands-on training in simulated healthcare environments and on-the-job learning during placements, students develop the requisite skills to enter the workforce with confidence. They also establish valuable connections within the industry.

BHI’s Director, Faculty of Health, Community and Animals, Heidi Wenk believes delivering local training to fill regional jobs is important.

“We’re incredibly proud to be training the future healthcare workforce for the Yarra Ranges, right here in Lilydale,” Ms Wenk said.

Mid-year enrolments for the Diploma of Nursing at the Lilydale campus are now open, with the course starting 21 July. Learn more via the website, boxhill.edu.au/courses/diplomaof-nursing-hc544-d/

Launching Place resident Sara Norman studied the Diploma of Nursing at Box Hill Institute in Lilydale. (Supplied)

Brands are opting out

Animal activists are rejoicing as another major brand, this time Japanese athletic footwear producer Mizuno, is reportedly set to phase out the use of kangaroo leather in their shoes.

Reported by Financial Times, Mizuno did not provide a timeline for their phase out but admitted it had received ‘some opposition’ to the use of kangaroo leather and would ‘select materials based on a variety of values, including environmental friendliness as well as functionality’.

The move comes two weeks after adidas announced an exit from the trade and just a week after ASICS did the same. The rapid-fire changes in corporate sourcing policies came after pressure applied by the Center for a Humane Economy and other animal welfare advocates.

The US-based Center for a Humane Economy, with its sister organisations Animal Wellness Action and the Animal Wellness Foundation, launched the Kangaroos Are Not Shoes campaign in 2020. Puma, Nike, and New Balance announced the phase-in of no-kangaroo-sourcing policies in 2023, while Sokito, a U.K.-based brand, cleansed its entire supply chain of kangaroo leather in 2024. Nike and Puma ended all trade in kangaroo skins at the end of 2023, while New Balance pledged to close out kangaroo-based shoe offerings by the end of 2024, except for a one-year extension of sales of the wildlife-based shoes in Japan.

Director of international programs for the Center for a Humane Economy Jennifer Skiff confirmed she’d been pressing Mizuno president Akito Mizuno to act with deliberate speed in the wake of the announcements from adidas and ASICS. The Center for a Humane Economy has asked for an immediate end to buying new skins and to phase out manufacturing of any shoes made from kangaroos by the end of 2025.

“This appears to be a tremendous victory for animals and for the global movement toward ethical business practices,” Ms Skiff said.

“Mizuno and its major competitors could no longer deny our stark analysis that their sourcing practices, tied to the inhumane commercial slaughter of native wildlife, were out of alignment with their animal welfare and sustainability policies.”

In January 2025, a review of listings by the Center for a Humane Economy, largely grounded on offerings from Soccer.com, found that Mizuno was offering 28 models of kangaroo-leather shoes, making it the top user of kangaroo skin in

the global athletic footwear market. In contrast, other major brands have been winding down their use of kangaroo parts.

For example, adidas, whose leaders informed Center for a Humane Economy president Wayne Pacelle at its Annual General Meeting in Germany on May 15, 2025, that it would cease using kangaroo leather, apparently had only one remaining shoe model with kangaroo uppers—the Copa Mundial. Days later, ASICS told the Center for a Humane Economy in an email that it would end its relationship with kangaroo leather in 2025, citing the importance it placed on ‘ethical sourcing’ while committing to replace its few remaining kangaroo-sourced models.

“There’s been a corporate exodus from the skin trade for kangaroos in recent weeks,” Mr Pacelle said.

“Major athletic companies have been funding, through their purchases of skins, the largest massacre of native wildlife in the world, and it

was time for all of them to clean up this moral mess.”

In early April, the Center for a Humane Economy launched a letter-writing campaign among Japanese consumers directed at Mizuno’s leadership, alongside an online educational initiative.

Ms Skiff said she had meetings this week with activists as they prepared to demonstrate outside Mizuno retail stores in Europe, Japan, and the United States.

But now, the company appears poised to follow the industry-wide ethical shift. Alyssa Wormwald is president of the Victorian Kangaroo Alliance, an advocacy group in Australia that has been exposing the trade and was formed in the Yarra Ranges.

“We commend Mizuno for cutting ties with the vile kangaroo wildlife trade, and congratulate the Kangaroos Are Not Shoes campaign on its latest success,” Ms Wormald said.

“Without this campaign, shoemakers would

not have seen past the spin aggressively pushed by the profiteering kangaroo industry and Australian government.”

The Center for a Humane Economy thanked the support of Donny Moss and Their Turn, SPCA International, the Animal Justice Party in Australia, Victorian Kangaroo Alliance, Nature Knowledge Channel, Animals Australia, and dozens of other leading animal welfare groups that helped lead to the boost in their campaign.

Ms Skiff said she the pulse of action from athletic shoe industry leaders, led by Puma in 2023, and now this second wave of reform led by adidas in 2025.

“With this latest policy change, the top seven companies in the global athletic shoe business have made pledges to kick the habit of using the skins of the iconic Australian marsupials after the Kangaroos Are Not Shoes campaign was launched in 2020,” she said.

Learn more at KangaroosAreNotShoes.org.

Local researcher’s study to document teachers’ experiences

By Tanya Steele

A Yarra Ranges researcher is seeking secondary school teachers to help her collect data on the lived, day-to-day experiences of teachers all over Victoria.

Taking to local social media in the last weeks, a local teacher is researching the lived experiences and professional agency of secondary school teachers across Victoria.

Emma Stevenson is a student researcher at Melbourne University and a current secondary school teacher, who is gathering data in an online survey.

“My research explores how Victorian government secondary school teachers experience and exercise professional agency within Professional Learning Communities (PLCs),” she said.

“It focuses on the lived, day-to-day experiences of teachers as they navigate collaborative spaces, make decisions, and enact their values.”

Currently being conducted across Victorian government secondary schools and the study draws on responses collected through an online survey, followed by semi-structured interviews and will remain open for around eight more weeks.

“I am hoping for a broad and diverse group of teachers as an opportunity to capture their lived experiences,” said Ms Stevenson.

The interview phase will take place in the second half of the year, focusing on participants who have indicated interest through the survey.

“I’m looking to better understand teachers’ experiences of agency in the context of PLCs,’ said Ms Stevenson.

“I’m interested in the tensions and opportunities teachers encounter as they collaborate, reflect, and make decisions within structured team settings, but also how this translates

across from a meeting into their classroom, practice and beliefs,” she said.

PLCs, or Professional Learning Communities, are a model underpinned by collaboration, inquiry, professional learning, trust and curiosity and in Victorian government schools, PLCs are implemented system-wide and are designed to support teacher collaboration, improve student outcomes, and foster professional growth.

“Global literature highlights their potential to build inclusive communities of practice and encourage data-informed, student-centred decision-making,” said Ms Stevenson.

The data to be gathered in the survey hopes to understand the ways teachers draw on their own expertise, experiences, and goals to make purposeful decisions in context.

“By capturing teachers’ lived experiences within PLCs, this research unpacks how agency is expressed, negotiated, and enacted in the

lived reality of teacher experiences,” said Ms Stevenson.

“Ultimately, I hope this research contributes to broader conversations about teacher experiences, PLCs, and how agency is experienced by our secondary school teachers,” she said.

Taking part will mean doing an online survey (lnkd.in/eQG5pNSX), which will take approximately 10-15 minutes of your time to complete and teachers must be a secondary or high school teacher currently employed as a range one or two classroom teacher in a Victorian government secondary or high school.

One unique aspect of the survey is a question in the survey that invites participants to upload a royalty-free image that represents their experiences.

“It will be fascinating to see what people choose, whether it be things like classrooms, nature or even metaphorical representations, and how they use these images to articulate their experiences and what matters to them,” said Ms Stevenson.

“I’m hopeful it will give insight into the lived experiences, which text alone struggles to capture.”

Victorian Kangaroo Alliance protesters during a rally against the use of kangaroo leather in 2022. (On File: Matt Hrkac)

Taking to local social media in the last weeks, a local teacher is researching the lived experiences and professional agency of secondary school teachers across Victoria. (Unsplash).

A Yarra Ranges researcher is seeking secondary school teachers to help her collect data on the lived, day-to-day experiences of teachers all over Victoria. (Unsplash).

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Hitting the right keys

By Mikayla van Loon and Tanya Steele

Fiona Carter has been playing the piano since the age of five.

As a well known and loved performer at the Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company, her piano playing is just one of many talents, one she sometimes pulls out on stage.

So when an email was sent to the Theatre seeking amateur pianists to tell their stories, Ms Carter responded.

From an email came a five page application, then videos of her playing the piano and video interviews.

It wasn’t until much later that Ms Carter realised that original email came from the ABC’s The Piano TV show producers.

“I had no idea that it was a TV show. Apparently it is international. I thought it was some doco that just detailed people’s stories about their experience with the piano,” she said.

“I didn’t even know it was an audition until I received an email congratulating me! That was August 2024.”

The Piano, a six-part series hosted by Amanda Keller, was released in early May and invited everyday pianists to perform in public locations like major train stations.

The premise of the show was to “explore how the piano has the power to transform the lives of everyday Australians, creating refuge, joy and friendship via the touch of a key”, an ABC release about the series stated.

Initially told she would be filming at Flinders Street Station, this had to change because of the football schedule. Instead Ms Carter went to Sydney.

“My husband and I flew to Sydney and spent the weekend filming with the other 13 pianists, who were all just lovely. Such a special opportunity to share our stories with each other. I feel like I made 13 new friends,” she said.

The nerves about filming and playing in a

public place were nearly non-existent until the mention of an interview.

“During the Saturday we found out that Amanda Keller would be interviewing us. Amanda Keller. I have admired her for ages. And that’s when I got really nervous. Before that I was just excited to be involved,” Ms Carter said.

“And then you could have knocked me down with a feather when we found that Andrea Lam and Harry Connick Jr had been watching and listening to us. They were so gracious and encouraging. They spoke briefly with each one of us at the close of the filming.

“It was an incredible experience and I’m so glad I answered that first email.”

Ms Carter later found out the show had 1600 applications and 70 people were chosen to perform.

Musicality and performing was somewhat of a family trait, passed on from her grandmother and mother, which flowed onto Ms Carter’s daughters and nieces too.

“Mum used to play for us six girls to sing. We performed as the Williams Family Singers. Dad couldn’t carry a tune, but loved hearing us all play and sing. His father was a pianist too,” Ms Carter said.

“Some of my earliest memories are of lying in bed at night hearing mum play the piano.”

Recalling how her six siblings and herself would spend three and a half hours each Sunday afternoon learning the piano with teacher Miss Hole, Ms Carter said she was grateful to have had those lessons.

“She had two grand pianos and an upright in one room, and across the hall she had two uprights in another room. One of us would be on a piano in each room at any one time, the rest of us would be doing musical theory.

“She would move between the two rooms. Woe betide you if she found you weren’t working. We all went through AMEB exams, up to various levels.

“She was an inspiring teacher, an incredible musician and a lovely lady. I feel incredibly fortunate that mum and dad found her.”

Ms Carter plays each week at church, has played for old-time singalongs in Seville, rehearsed and performed old-time singalongs with ARK Theatre and performed in several plays where she had to play and sing as part of

her character, not to mention the appearances at Christmas Carols in the Park events.

But her love of performing doesn’t match the simple task of practicing at home with her grandmother’s baby grand piano.

“I love the structure and discipline of practicing the piano. The world goes away when my heart and my hands combine to make music.”

Huge exhibition launch at Sherbrooke Gallery

By Tanya Steele

Hitting its mid 50s stride, a renowned local annual art exhibition has celebrated a record number of entries this year.

Sherbrooke Gallery celebrated the opening of their 55th Streeton, Roberts and McCubbin Art Awards on Saturday 24 May.

A full room, with over 80 in attendance the exhibition had 152 entries this year contributed by 62 awards from Sherbrooke and beyond.

This year, Sherbrooke Gallery invited artist Sarah Anthony to judge the Streeton, Roberts and McCubbin sections, and it was a massive task to choose three standout works for the major prizes. She also awarded seven highly commended and one commended on the day.

“The exhibition was really strong – lots of amazing works. I was really impressed by the diversity of how artists had interpreted the broader theme,” said Sarah.

As a first time judge, she said it was an exciting new experience for her and was slightly daunted by the prospect of deciding between over 150 entries this year. .

“I set myself judging criteria of looking for works that had some flavour or sense of Streeton, Roberts and McCubbin’s works, but with their own artistic individuality,” said Sarah.

“I took three hours to really immerse myself in the works and I’m really happy with the winners I chose,” she said.

“The works each have a strong relation to the theme but are strong representations of each artist’s personal style.”

Sarah has recently worked on a children’s book with author Dee White on the story behind Tom Roberts’ most famous painting, ‘Shearing the Rams’, which hangs in the National Gallery of Victoria Collection.

It is titled ‘The Girl in the Painting’ and follows the story of Susie Bourne, a shy girl growing up on Brocklesby Sheep Station in Corowa, NSW.

“Sarah has painted all of the pages in this delightful book, which is so connected to our local history in Kallista, where Tom Roberts chose to live in the last decade of his life,” said a spokesperson from Sherbrooke Gallery.

On the day of the exhibition launch, Sarah spent a long time considering the array of artwork on display and awarded the Streeton Award for

Best Landscape to It Hao Pheh, who is a tutor who teaches watercolour regularly at the gallery.

His magnificent watercolour ‘The Observer’s Reward’ was described by Sarah as a ‘quiet achiever’ and ‘one I could look at for a long time.’

“The drama of the mountains in the foreground and the soft vista receding into the background has all the best elements of Streeton’s compositions, yet the style is very much the artist’s own,” she said.

Artist in residence Jeffrey Murphy won the Roberts Award for best non-landscape for his Still Life painting of flowers titled ‘Mortum Florem’.

Spanning a career of 35 years, Jeffrey said he was greatly honoured to receive the award and Sarah described the painting as really reminiscent of the Heidelberg school era.

“A strong yet restrained painting, it’s a really nice example of tonal realism,” she said.

Jeffrey learned tonal impressionism under artist Glenda Wise, and said that it is a method of oil painting which emphasises tonal value (Dark to Light) and visual truth.

“For me, this occasion was a chance to take it slow, building in layers to achieve a classic chiaroscuro (dark to light) effect,” he said.

“I gave a gold leaf frame a custom finish to give a look of antiquity to compliment the piece.”

Describing the local gallery as ‘his art home’, Jeffrey has made painting his life and profession, teaching oil painting to adults at Sherbrooke and his work focuses on flowers and still life.

“My passion for flowers and growing flowers combines with my love of collecting and hoarding interesting relics and op-shop finds, which eventually feature in my work,” he said.

The McCubbin Award for best small painting went to Ben Winspear for his 9 x 5 painting titled ‘ Summer Haze, Dandenongs’ and the winner of the Walter Withers Award for Watercolour went to Jenny Nicholls for ‘Sheep Country’.

it was really lovely to be part of the opening and meet some of the artists and locals who run the

“It is such a strong community and the talent in the area is impressive,” she said.

“Everyone was so friendly and welcoming and

it was great to put faces to names of local artists that I already follow.”

Fiona Carter played the piano for her role in Suite Surrender at the Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre.

(Alexandra Carter, Wonderling Photography)

Sarah

gallery.

The exhibition will run now until 21 June at Sherbrooke Gallery on 62 Monbulk Rd, Belgrave and the gallery is open from Friday to Monday, from 11am-3pm.

The Streeton Award for Best Landscape went to It Hao Pheh, who is a tutor who teaches watercolour regularly at the gallery. (Supplied).

Sarah Anthony and Jeffrey Murphy at the opening. (Supplied).

Tuesday 17th June 2025 - 11am to 3pm

Community spirit gathers

By Tanya Steele

Community spirit was on full display recently as locals gathered for a vibrant volunteer event for 2025.

Sunday 1 June, saw the Yarra Ranges Volunteer Expo in Lilydale showcased the many ways residents could get involved and give back across the Yarra Ranges.

Yarra Ranges Council director of communities Leanne Hurst said the volunteer Expo was a great success.

“It was inspiring to see so many volunteer groups showcase the incredible value that they bring to our community,” she said.

Information booths at the expo provided guidance on how to join community advisory groups and get involved in locally based volunteer initiatives. The event also offered a chance for people to meet current volunteers, who shared their stories and experiences, inspiring others to find their own path in community service.

Emphasising the importance of networking and collaboration, Friends of Leadbeater’s Possum president Steve Meacher said the day provided an opportunity to talk to lots of people, including councillors, about the work his group do to advocate for protection of the critically endangered Leadbeater possum and its forest habitat.

“It was also an opportunity to contact other volunteer organisations to discuss possibilities to work together to support each other’s projects,” he said.

“It was an enjoyable and busy morning.”

Mr Meacher said he would like to thank to Yarra Ranges Council for taking the initiative to organise this expo.

“We hope it will become a regular feature on the calendar,” he said.

Rotary Club of Lilydale members Anne van Horick and Richard Selway said they had a “fantastic time” showcasing the many projects the club takes part in throughout the year, like the Rotary Youth Driver Awareness Program, installing a kitchen at Holy Fools Felix House, the Wishing Tree Christmas gift drive and the donation of welcome packs for inpatients admitted to Maroondah Hospital Mental Health Inpatient Unit.

“Many people were unaware that Rotary also collects unwanted foreign coins to benefit charities like UNICEF.

“It was wonderful to chat with the general public, councillors and other community groups about how they can get involved and be a part of something truly special.

“We loved connecting with everyone and sharing how Rotary is building a stronger, more vibrant Yarra Ranges!”

Healesville Community Renewable Energy Inc (CoRE) president Karen Roberts said the expo was “well worth” the few hours the group spent there.

“Healesville Community Renewable Energy (Healesville CoRE) were happy to be a part of Yarra Ranges Council volunteer event, and pleased to share a table with our sister group in Monbulk, Repowering the Dandenongs.”

for

“Healesville CoRE has recently held our third three year Strategic Plan and have begun the deep dive into the first year’s action plan. We have just run our first event of the year - a chance for people to have a 20 minute chat with a sustainability expert to discuss solar, heating etc in their home, and plan to run an event at our Memorial Hall later this year.”

Across the Yarra Ranges from CFA to arts and the environment, volunteers are everywhere, however, there is a need for more flexible volunteering opportunities as the increased cost of living and more demand for services challenge the industry.

According to the last ABS census, formal volunteering, where people volunteer through organisations, has gradually declined over the past 10 years but is still highest among people aged 40-54 years.

Informal volunteering which is where people volunteer directly in the community, is significantly more common among people aged 25-39 years, and the rates of online – or remote – volunteering has continued to grow in recent years.

Highlighting the adaptability of volunteers in embracing new modes of engagement, the proportion of people in Australia engaging in online

volunteering has increased by 21 percentage points.

Ms Hurst said the event had around 250 community members come through the door to view the expo.

“We’re pleased to say that many of the volunteer groups were able to secure some expressions of interest from those who attended,” she said.

“For anyone who missed the event and would like to explore volunteering opportunities within the Yarra Ranges, we would love for you to reach out to us.”

Lilydale Heights is ResourceSmart School of the Year

Lilydale Heights College has been crowned the 2025 ResourceSmart School of the Year for its outstanding environmental achievements at an award ceremony in Melbourne on Thursday 5 June.

The secondary school has successfully integrated sustainability into every aspect of school life, led by its sustainability learning specialist Shannon Sargeant.

Attending the awards ceremony with members of the Sustainability Team, Ms Sargeant said it was an excellent opportunity for them to meet likeminded youths and gain ideas and inspiration.

With host Costa Georgiadis, Ms Sargeant said everyone was “super excited” and that this in itself was a huge moment for the students.

“I can honestly say that I was in no way prepared for us to win. The other two finalists are five-star schools, so when Costa read out our name, it was pure shock and disbelief that were my initial reactions,” she said.

“I loved how our students took it all in their stride, confidently walking up to the stage with pride and smiles bursting from them. What a way to bring a team closer together.

“I am very humbled that we have been chosen as School of the Year 2025. You don’t get many ac-

colades in education so this is one to really cherish.”

The Three Star ResourceSmart School allows students to work together to solve real-world environmental issues through programs such as There is No Planet B and Ocean Plastic Waste, and Zoos Victoria on its Fighting Extinction science project.

Lilydale Heights has done important work in raising awareness about vehicle emissions as a Monash University Idle Off pilot school, while its collaborative town square artwork project deepened understandings of First Nations perspectives on sustainability.

Judges have praised the school’s integration of sustainable practices into everyday school life.

“The way you have embedded sustainability into the school’s curriculum and culture, which, in turn, has provided your students and community with a great suite of practical and easily actionable ways to be sustainable, is commendable,” the judges said.

Lilydale Heights’ Shannon Sargeant was a finalist in the Teacher of the Year (Secondary) category.

This year, there were 31 schools vying for an award in Victoria’s largest celebration for primary and secondary school students, teachers, and

school volunteers taking sustainability action, with 10 schools taking an award, including Wandin Yallock Primary School.

“We have worked on embedding sustainability in the curriculum across all faculties as a priority over the past few years so this really is an award for all members of staff,” Ms Sargent said.

“I am hopeful that this award will encourage staff to continue working towards our resource smart goals, that students will see that the small changes we ask them to make every day count and that more may become permanently in-

volved in the team.”

Sustainability Victoria has celebrated the 16th year hosting the ResourceSmart Schools Awards with the theme, ‘Working Together’.

Matt Genever, Sustainability Victoria’s CEO, congratulated Lilydale Heights College on its outstanding achievement.

“Lilydale Heights College has displayed exemplary efforts to integrate sustainability into its school curriculum, undertaking a diverse range of initiatives. I congratulate the students, staff and the wider school community on being bestowed the coveted title of ResourceSmart School of the Year.”

Since 2008, ResourceSmart Schools has reached over 1,600 Victorian schools. Together they have planted more than 5.1 million trees, saved over $63 million through energy, waste and water savings, diverted 170,000 cubic metres of waste from landfill and avoided over 1110,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.

The 2025 ResourceSmart Schools Awards would not be possible without the generous support of sponsors, CDS Vic, Bank First and the Department of Education.

For more information about this year’s winners, please visit www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/ rssa-2025- winners

Friends of Leadbeater’s Possum committee member Catherine Keil and President Steve Meacher. Catherine has been a member

11 years and on the committee since 2016. Steve has been a committee member for 20 years and president since 2014. (Yarra Ranges Council).

Rotary Club of Lilydale members Anne van Horick and Richard Selway. (Supplied)

Volunteers from the Bookaburra Storytime support young children’s early literacy skills and fosters a love of reading across the Yarra Ranges. (Yarra Ranges Council).

Healesville Core president Karen Roberts and Repower the Dandenongs president Neil Evenden. (Yarra Ranges Council).

Back row Lilydale Heights College sustainability leader Shannon Sargeant, Mitch and Ella. Front row Lily, Anastasia, Gracie and Clover. (Stewart Chambers: 475252)

Blue Army nails kindness

There’s a volunteer army on the march through Aveo’s Cherry Tree Grove Retirement Living in Melbourne who arrive armed with hammers, screwdrivers and drills to lend a helping hand to their neighbours.

The Blue Army, formed 12 years ago by a handful of community-minded residents, assists with small DIY tasks outside the scope of the village’s maintenance team. Now with 23 recruits, the army of men and women meets twice a week to deliver neighbourly kindness across their village of 450 residents.

Brian Cooper, The Blue Army’s co-ordinator and a resident of the Croydon retirement community, says the volunteers formed after the realisation that some of their neighbours needed a little help with odd jobs.

“The office at Cherry Tree Grove receives maintenance requests from the residents and tasks are allocated to Aveo’s on-site maintenance staff or The Blue Army,’’ he said.

“Volunteers meet at our shed and tasks are matched to the skill set of volunteers who travel in pairs to residents’ homes. We usually have 12 to 14 Blue Army volunteers, depending on their commitments and availability, on any day.

“Our tasks can range from changing lightbulbs, replacing smoke alarm batteries, hanging pictures, repairing chains on roller blinds or installing a shelf. We also provide electronic help to retune TVs or solve issues with computers and printers.

“After we complete our tasks, the members head back to the shed to debrief, have a coffee and share some Tim Tams.’’

The dedicated volunteers, who wear a uniform of a blue polo shirt and matching cap, are required to complete an induction program, undertake workplace safety training, be proficient in the use of specialist power tools and hold a doctor’s certificate to operate tools. Their roles are not taken lightly.

Residents pay for any parts required to complete their tasks and, if they wish, can make a small donation with the funds used to restock The Blue Army’s supplies, uniforms or new tools. At the end of the year, some of the funds are donated to charity.

“The Blue Army has already completed 235 tasks this year and we estimate our services save residents around $70,000 annually in tradie callout fees,’’ Mr Cooper said.

“The majority of our members are amateurs with an interest in DIY, but others are retired electronic engineers, drainage experts, builders, cabinetmakers and accountants.

“It’s wonderful to be part of the team. We enjoy the camaraderie, share a few laughs and gain satisfaction knowing we are looking out for our fellow residents. It’s a joy to receive such positive feedback from residents and their family members.’’

Aveo’s State Operations Manager Valetta Johnston said The Blue Army was a wonderful example of how the wide ranging life experiences of residents continue to be treasured in Aveo’s communities.

“The Blue Army not only delivers such a valuable service to fellow residents but rewards the volunteers with a sense of purpose, value and belonging,’’ Mrs Johnston said.

“The camaraderie they share is evident in the banter and laughter in the group cuppa afterwards. This connection is as important as any of the DIY projects they complete.

“The systems and parameters The Blue Army

Attracting world-wide attention

By Maria Millers

Just less than a month ago our federal election delivered a resounding victory to the Labor Party.

Anthony Albanese became the first Australian Prime Minister in two decades to secure a second term.

But the election did not dominate global headlines to the extent that major U.S. or UK elections have done, attracting only moderate international media coverage.

And from those disappointed with the outcome there was no response similar to the one we saw on 6 January, 2022, following Trumps loss to Biden when a disaffected angry armed mob marched on the Capital.

One would think that our peaceful acceptance of the results would be worth celebrating in a world straining with conflicts.

Ironically, currently Australia is getting a great deal of global attention and not because we showed that despite diversity and differences we respect and accept the democratic process but because of the trial of an ordinary middle aged woman accused of fatally poisoning three relatives with death cap mushrooms in Leongatha, Victoria.

The trial, which commenced on 29 April, 2025, in the Supreme Court of Victoria, has attracted intense media interest, with numerous journalists, documentary-makers, and true crime writers covering the proceedings.

It’s a story with all the elements that would make crime writers or film makers fall over each other to get the rights to the story.

International outlets such as Reuters, The Guardian, The Times, The Independent, The Strait Times, Global News, and CBS News have extensively reported on the trial.

In the eyes of many people overseas Australia is often seen as a wild and scary place to visit (despite being one of the most urbanized societies in the world).

Seen as a land of a harsh and unforgiving environment of heat, bushfires, floods and cy-

WOORILLA WORDS

clones, and teeming with deadly animals, both on land and sea.

This perception is usually exaggerated and shaped more by media, pop culture, and internet jokes than reality.

And so a stereotype develops.

And don’t forget the fictional Dropbears.

Said to be large carnivorous version of the koala that drop from trees to attack unsuspecting people, particularly tourists.

But real dangers do exist.

Australia is home to many venomous creatures —the funnel-web spider, box jellyfish, and eastern brown snake, sharks and saltwater crocodiles.

Then there is the vast remote outback setting with its stories of survival and cases of missing and murdered tourists.

The high profile case of Peter Falcone and his girlfriend Joanne Lee, the Ivan Millat backpacker murders and of course the nine week old Azaria Chamberlain who was snatched by a dingo from a tent at Uluru in 1980 inspired films and reality shows loosely based on these real events that have captivated overseas readers and viewers.

Think of Wolf Creek and Evil Angels.

These examples make any unusual or macabre event from Australia more likely to be interpreted through the lens of danger.

This also reflects the broader media tendency to prioritize immediate, visually compelling

narratives over political events unless they have significant international implications.

And now the whole world is watching the mushroom case.

Mushrooms have held a mysterious and often magical place in folklore across cultures for centuries.

Their sudden appearance, strange shapes, and sometimes toxic effects made them natural symbols for the mystical, the dangerous, and the otherworldly.

In Australia, while mushroom poisoning deaths are relatively rare, the death cap mushroom is the leading cause of such fatalities.

Notably, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has recorded four deaths associated with death cap mushrooms since 2002.

The current case involves Erin Patterson, a 50-year-old woman accused of murdering three relatives by serving them a meal containing poisonous death cap mushrooms in July 2023.

The victims—her mother-in-law, father-inlaw, and estranged husband’s aunt—died after consuming the meal at her home.

Patterson has pleaded not guilty to the charges, maintaining that the deaths were accidental.

She testified that she may have unknowingly searched for information on death cap mushrooms online and possibly used foraged mushrooms in the meal, contradicting her earlier claims of using only store-bought ingredients.

The trial is expected to conclude by the end of June 2025 .

Her cross examination resumes this week and there is much divided opinion.

Until the jury makes its decision we can only speculate.

Whether you see someone genuinely struggling with a life -long eating disorder and the role of a single parent, or you see a calculating ,vengeful woman hitting back at perceived hurts. Whichever it is we will have to let our judicial system play out.

Meanwhile it should remind us as much as

have adopted enable volunteers to work efficiently and safely within their limitations. I would love to see this initiative adopted across other Aveo communities.’’

The Blue Army recently expanded their offering to include a loan service. Any residents recovering from surgery or illness can borrow a range of equipment such as walking frames, shower seats, crutches and even an electric scooter, for a small donation.

Aveo’s Cherry Tree Grove is located at 67 Maroondah Highway, Croydon. For information, call Aveo on 13 28 36 or visit aveo.com.au.

foraging for free food has a romantic feel to it when mushrooms are involved avoid them unless you are an expert in Mycology.

Better to play it safe and purchase them from greengrocers or supermarkets.

Despite the stereotype about how dangerous Australia is It consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world for tourists.

Outside of Australia, deadly animal stories are often overrepresented — foreigners love the “Australia is dangerous” trope.

Inside Australia, those stories are taken more with humour.

Yes, the stereotype doesn’t hold up well— Australia may be dangerous in myth, but in practice when looking round surface level national stereotypes have limitations and if we want to talk about dangers we should have a more nuanced view of what danger really means beyond snakes and mushrooms and talk about trust, polarization and civic distrust and the future for our youth.

One of the most famous mushroom poems, Mushrooms by Sylvia Plath uses mushrooms as a metaphor for quiet, unnoticed rebellion. It captures both the natural mystery of mushrooms and their symbolic potential for slow, silent uprising.

Mushrooms Overnight, very Whitely, discreetly,

Very quietly

Our toes, our noses Take hold on the loam, Acquire the air.

Nobody sees us, Stops us, betrays us;

The small grains make room.

Our kind multiplies: We shall by morning Inherit the earth.

Our foot’s in the door.

Brian Cooper of Cherry Tree Grove’s Blue Army.

Members of The Blue Army in the workshop. (Supplied)

Discover modern terrace homes in Croydon

Elevate your retirement at Cherry Tree Grove by Aveo. A limited release of modern terrace homes nestled within a well-established and welcoming community are now selling! Choose from beautifully appointed one and two-bedroom designs, featuring private courtyards, spacious open-plan layouts, and seamless access to the newly revitalised community centre.

Enjoy premium amenities, a vibrant social calendar, and the peace of mind that comes with living in a thoughtfully designed environment.

ESVF levy disappointment

Whilethestategovernmenthasofferedatemporary reprieve to our 2400 primary producers by capping the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF)levyforthecomingfinancialyear,wearestill disappointed with the introduction of this new tax.

All other residents and businesses will see a significant increase in the levy amount they must pay compared to last year’s levy and this concerns us greatly, it is not a small increase.

We have joined with other local government areas in expressing our disappointment and opposition to the state government’s approach to collecting the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) and doing so during the cost-of-living crisis.

I must stress that Yarra Ranges Council fully sup-

From my From my desk

Jim Child

ports the adequate funding of emergency service agencies, and we understand the need to ensure they have modern equipment for the dedicated volunteers and staff who protect our communities.

However, significantly increasing the levy payable and forcing the council to collect these fees on behalf of the state is not something we support. It’s important to note that on your rates notice there are a few charges – the rates which is what the council uses for the services and assets provided to our community, the waste fee which pays for the collection of your rubbish and the state government fees for disposal – and now the ESVF.

Any money collected by the council must be proportionately paid across all those charges. If a ratepayer chooses to not pay the ESVF - a portion of the money collected by the council will still have to be paid towards the ESVF.

This ultimately means the council could face a

reduction in collected funds which will impact the services and assets that we can provide to our community.

While a number of people have said they will not pay the ESVF – I’m afraid there is no option for people to choose what they will and will not pay. We will continue to advocate for our residents about this levy and if you have any questions you canfindoutmoreonthestategovernment’sdepartment of treasure and finance website – or contact your local state MP.

On a brighter note, with winter now drawing in, it can mean only one thing - the Shortest Day Lunch winter wine festival is on over 21st and 22nd of June.

A City of Sadness (1989) was the first Taiwanese film to win the Golden Lion award at the Venice Film Festival.

It follows the Lin Family in a coastal town near Taipei from 1945 to 1949, between the end of 50 years of Japanese colonial rule and the establishment of Chiang Kai-Shek’s Nationalist Government in Taiwan.

Powerful historical drama PASSION FOR PROSE

It was a time of chaos, with 2.2 million military personnel and civilians fleeing from the Chinese Mainland to Taiwan.

The island’s population of 6 million at the time mainly consisted of descendants of early Chinese settlers who had lived there for more than 300 years and who now identified themselves as Taiwanese.

In the film, the Lin Family is headed by the eldest son Wen-Hsiung, while the second son was conscripted by the Japanese as a military doctor but disappeared in the Phillipines during the war. The third son becomes involved with gangsters from Shanghai and is imprisoned and tortured, suffering brain damage as a result. The fourth and youngest son Wen-Ching is a deaf photographer who communicates with others in writing.

It is from the perspectives of Wen-Hsiung and Wen-Ching that the Nationalist Government’s authoritarian rule and economic mismanagement are examined.

Also through the eyes of the brothers, the film tackles the background and legacy of the February 28 Incident. The infamous event marked the beginning of the 40 year-long “White Terror”, the political repression of Taiwanese civilians and political dissenters under the rule of the Kuomintang (KMT). As WenHsiung says: “This island is so pitiful. First the Japanese, then the Chinese. They all exploit us and no one gives a damn.”

It is heart-wrenching seeing the brothers being torn out of their small world and assaulted

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

by the cruel reality where people are executed and their livelihoods destroyed by the government that is supposed to take care of them.

With that said, this is a very subtle film, with our understanding of the traumatic regime change gradually deepening as we observe the characters’ actions and emotions.

There is a strong contrast between the Taiwanese, who have thrived on the island for generations, and the Mainlanders, who are portrayed as decadent and indulgent.

But there is no criticism – and it feels there is an artistic distance deliberately kept between the characters and the audience – as we are invited to witness the profound impact of political, social and cultural turmoils on ordinary individuals. In this regard, Wen-Ching’s silence is particularly deafening, as it adds to the considerable divide between his inner world and the horrific events occurring around him.

There are multiple languages used in the film, but Wen-Ching’s silence reflects the voicelessness enforced upon the Taiwanese people.

A remarkable masterpiece, the film encourages and enriches our reflection of the past and how it influenced our present life.

In this sense, how the violence and oppression of the “White Terror” led to the emergence of the Taiwanese identity and particularly the island nation today as a true democracy.

John Wick 3-and-a-Half

Ballerina

Starring Ana De Armas, Keanu Reeves and Gabriel Byrne

MA15+

4/5

Ballerina is a more-than-worthy spin-off in the John Wick action franchise, but lacks the focus of the better films in the series.

Set between John Wick 3 and 4, Ballerina sees Eve Macarro (Ana de Armas), a member of an order of dancer assassins, resolve to hunt down the people who murdered her father.

De Armas is an elegant, fiercely determined lead and a dynamo in the abundant action scenes, which are a smorgasbord of bone-crunching fistfights, blades and kinetic gunplay (all wellframed and easy to follow).

The choreography does a good job of showing that since Eve is smaller and less physically strong, she must use her wits, speed and environment to beat her opponents, and the thrilling climax contains the only two-way flamethrower fight I’ve ever seen.

Ballerina’s dark humour, score and opulent yet grungy visual design pay tribute to the prior John Wick films while forging their own identity, but Ballerina’s plot stumbles with extraneous details and clumsy links to the past.

Keanu Reeves’ supporting role as John Wick feels very crowbarred-in (despite some cool scenes).

John Wick 3 featured flawed world-building that John Wick 4 wisely dismantled, so it’s a shame to see Ballerina return to the third film’s brackish well.

Eve’s quest for vengeance is well-paced, but the broader plot has some jarring jumps in time, and Eve’s secondary goal of rescuing a little girl from a cult (with Norman Reedus in a barely-there role as the girl’s father) is tacked onto her already-sturdy revenge mission.

Gabriel Byrne is also unmemorable as the Chancellor villain.

An engrossing thriller that continues the John Wick franchise’s gold standard of American action but could do with a narrative trimming, Ballerina is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

CARTOON

Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre

The Diary of Anne Frank

Few more poignant true stories emerged from World War II than the diary of a young Anne Frank.

Local entertainment Kemp’s curtain call

Published in long after the end of the war by her father, the only family survivor, records the minutiae of the 25 months that two Jewish families spent in hiding from the Gestapo in an Amsterdam warehouse attic.

The constant secrecy, the growing hunger and the friction of living in such cramped conditions could not dull Anne’s vibrant personality or her passion for living.

• Season: Thursday 2 July – Saturday 19 July.

• Bookings: 9725 1777

Karralyka Theatre

Songs of Bon Jovi – Rob Mills

Join Aussie star Rob Mills as he belts out the biggest Bon Jovi anthems in an electrifying live concert at Karralyka.

Karralyka Theatre welcomes you to join in the brand new bar and lounge space, to relax and unwind before the show.

• Season: Saturday 7 June.

• Bookings: 9870 2888 1812 Theatre

Sweeney Todd On the Razor’s Edge

-presented by Centrestage Youth Theatre

“They will remember Sweeney Todd when all of you have been forgotten” cries the Demon Barber of Feet Street.

His name provokes delicious shudders still – now, if you dare, return to the penny dreadful where his legend was born.

An apprentice finds himself in peril when he learns why people go missing in his master’s shop, a young woman dons a disguise to find out the fate of her beloved at sea, and in the cellar of a cheerful piemaker’s shop, a prisoner discovers the terrible truth of what goes inside the flaky crust.

Based on the String of Pearls, the story that was Sweeney’s debut, Sweeney Todd: On the Razor’s Edge is a melodrama that takes you into the cobblestone streets of London for a thrilling

adventure.

• Season: 1 – 12 July.

• Bookings: 9758 394

The Playhouse Arts Centre Melbourne Mr Ripley

Following the triumphant success of Julia, Murray-Smith returns with director Sarah Goodes to masterfully transform this seductive pageturner into an electrifying, world-premier stage experience.

Will McDonald plays Tom Ripley, an orphan and a striver, barely scraping by in 1950s New York. But beneath his woebegone exterior, tom cultivate certain talents that set him apart, an extraordinary capacity for mimicry and deception. He is a man with a face no-one remembers.

Whereas no one could forget Dickie Greenleaf. He is everything Tom isn’t; confident, stylish, and heir to a large fortune.

Tom is hired by Dickie’s father to bring his son home and so plunges him into the glittering world of luxury, beauty and hedonism on the Italian Riveria.

Intoxicated with this new social scene, Tom begins to fashion himself after his target. He begins dancing like Dickie, dressing like him., and drinking like him.

Tom begins to imagine another version of himself.

A better one .. and he’ll kill for it.

Content advisory: Recommended for ages 15+. This performance contains strong language, mature themes including violence, cigarettes and theatrical blood.

• Season: 28 October – 23 November.

A PRIVATE ESCAPE WITH SPACE, STYLE AND SERENITY

A PRIVATE ESCAPE WITH SPACE AND STYLE

TUCKED away at the end of a quiet road, surrounded by nature and set on just over ¾ of an acre (3,144sqm), this beautifully appointed home offers the perfect balance of family functionality, style and privacy

A full-length front verandah and striking double entry doors set the tone for what’s inside - polished Jarrah floors, 9ft ceilings, and a wide formal foyer immediately instil a feeling of relaxed elegance. At the front of the home, the spacious Master Retreat is your own peaceful haven – complete with plush carpet, walk-in robe, stylish ensuite, and French doors that open directly onto the deck. Wake up with a cuppa and birdsong – it doesn’t get better than this.

The heart of the home is a generous open-plan living zone that invites connection, comfort, and calm. The kitchen is designed for the home cook, with stone benchtops, gas stove top, dishwasher, island bench with sink, walk-in pantry and lots of storage. A woodfire adds warmth and charm to the adjacent lounge, while large windows and bi-fold doors invite the outdoors in, flowing effortlessly to both a covered deck with treed views to one side and a private central courtyard to the other.

Gas ducted heating runs throughout the home, ensuring warmth and comfort through the cooler months — a perfect complement to the serene, treed surroundings.

Down the hall, you’ll find three more carpeted bedrooms – each with walk-in robes and ceiling fans – a spacious home office or potential fifth bedroom, a modern family bathroom with separate toilet, and a second living area with split system, perfect for a home theatre or kids’ retreat. In addition, the updated laundry offers great storage and direct outdoor access.

Outside, a sealed driveway leads to a 3-bay 9.5m x 8m garage with mezzanine storage and a lined space at the rear. There’s also a woodshed, established greenery all around, and room to roam, play, or unwind in total seclusion.

Stylish, spacious, and ready for easy living – this private sanctuary is a rare find in a truly peaceful pocket.

This property has it all so don’t miss out - CALL TO ARRANGE A PRIVATE INSPECTION TODAY!

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

A PRIVATE HILLS RETREAT WITH ROOM TO GROW

PERFECTLY positioned just moments from the vibrant townships of Emerald and Monbulk, this charming home is nestled on a generous 3,058m² (approx.) allotment, offering an exceptional blend of space, privacy, and opportunity. Whether you’re dreaming of a tranquil lifestyle retreat, room for pets and play, or future potential (Subject to Council Approval), this property is a rare gem in an idyllic setting.

Step inside and discover a warm, welcoming interior where natural light and leafy outlooks abound. The home features two oversized bedrooms, each with built-in robes, and a well-appointed central bathroom. The spacious kitchen enjoys a picturesque view across the backyard and is equipped with ample bench space, gas cooking, and a dishwasher-ideal for the home chef. Adjacent, the open-plan lounge and dining area creates a relaxed and functional space for everyday living.

Outside, beautifully established gardens frame the front of the home, while a secure, high-fenced rear yard ensures safety and privacy. A double garage and garden shed add to the functionality, while further back, a vast, grassed area-fully fenced and backing onto tranquil Menzies Creek-invites a world of possibilities for children, pets, or future enhancements.

All of this is just a stone’s throw from the thriving townships of Emerald and Monbulk, offering easy access to schools, cafes, restaurants, medical facilities, and public transport in both directions. Whether you’re a first-home buyer, investor, downsizer, or someone seeking a peaceful lifestyle with space to grow, this property offers an outstanding opportunity in a tightly held and highly sought-after location. Don’t miss your chance to secure your own piece of paradise.

SPACIOUS CEDAR HOME ON 3,889SQM

NESTLED in a peaceful yet convenient location, this spacious cedar home sits on nearly an acre of land, offering the perfect balance of comfort and lifestyle. A sealed driveway leads to the undercover entrance, welcoming you into a well-equipped kitchen featuring generous bench space, ample storage, an integrated oven with a gas cooktop, and a large pantry. Overlooking the open-plan lounge and dining area, this inviting space is warmed by a striking open fireplace with a stone surround, a split system, and gas ducted heating throughout. Sliding doors open to a large rear deck, ideal for entertaining or unwinding in the tranquil surrounds.

The master bedroom boasts double builtin robes, while three additional well-sized bedrooms, each with built-in robes, provide plenty of space for family or guests. A centrally located family bathroom includes a separate shower and toilet for added convenience.

A spacious deck extends along the rear of the home, providing a perfect space to relax while overlooking the fully fenced backyard, ideal for children and pets. A double carport and a small garden shed completes the outdoor space, offering extra storage for tools or equipment, while the lush surroundings create a private retreat just moments from Emeralds shops, cafes, and primary school.

This property has it all so don’t miss out - CALL TO ARRANGE A PRIVATE INSPECTION TODAY! Call Aaron Day 0407 365 994 or Brennan Mileto 0422 996 451. Please note: All property details shown are correct at time of publishing. Some properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office. ●

STYLISHLY RENOVATED AND MOVE IN READY!

WHAT a winner we have here in a super convenient location, this beautifully updated home is a true hidden gem great for first home buyers, downsizers, or savvy investors.

Step inside to discover a stylish renovation, featuring three generously sized bedrooms, each with cozy carpet and matching blinds, this home blends comfort with modern charm.

The tastefully updated bathroom includes a sleek walk in shower, contemporary vanity, and the added convenience of two toilets.

Floating floors flow throughout the living areas, enhancing the home’s fresh, modern feel.

The spacious lounge offers a relaxing retreat with lovely views over the front deck a peaceful spot frequented by friendly local birdlife.

You’ll love the kitchen and dining space it’s an absolute standout.

Designed with entertaining and everyday living in mind, it boasts excellent bench and cupboard space, quality electric appliances, and a contemporary colour palette that brings it all together.

Comfort is assured year round with mains gas ducted heating, evaporative cooling and wood heating.

Outside, the property continues to impress: a large double carport, entertaining areas, low maintenance gardens, a fully fenced yard, handy storage sheds, and the bonus studio space.

Don’t miss your chance to inspect this standout home — it’s sure to be snapped up quickly!

HOME ESSENTIALS

57 McKenzie King Drive, MILLGROVE, Description: 3 bedrooms, 1

Contact: Rebecca Doolan 0401 832 068, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION. 5967 1277

Tworareleaseopportunities intheDandenongRanges.

Bring your vision tolifeinoneof Victoria’smostvisiteddestinations.

ParksVictoriaisseekingexperiencedoperatorsfor twouniquelong-termleaseopportunitiesinthisiconic location.Welcoming5.8millionvisitorsannually,the DandenongRangesisoneofVictoria’smostvisited destinations.

Expressionsofinterestarenowopenforthesetwo locations:

GrantsPicnicGroundCafé-EOIcloses18June2025

MountDandenongObservatory-EOIclose4July2025

ScanQRformore information

GrantsPicnicGroundCafé

MountDandenongObservatory

HOME FOCUS

CHARMING CHARACTER HOME

EXPERIENCE the perfect blend of location, luxury, and sophistication on half an acre in one of Emerald’s most coveted areas. This charming home offers stunning views and a beautifully landscaped garden from every window, providing an exceptional lifestyle for its fortunate new owners. Designed to harmonize with its surroundings and create a tranquil space for family living, the home features gleaming polished floorboards, an open-plan lounge and dining area, a stunning kitchen with Caesarstone countertops and stainless steel appliances, and large picture windows that flood the space with natural light, complemented by a fresh, modern colour scheme throughout. Upstairs there are three spacious bedrooms, all have built in robes and overlook the colour filled gardens. They are serviced by the stylish family bathroom. Additional comforts include a powder room downstairs, hydronic heating throughout, a cozy wood fire and two split-system heating and cooling units to ensure year-round comfort.

Step outside to enjoy a sprawling halfacre garden, complete with a large vegetable patch, a variety of established fruit trees, expansive lawn areas, and the added bonus of a separate outdoor room ideal for a study or teenager’s retreat. Unwind on the deck with family and friends or enjoy a quiet moment with a book with your morning coffee as you take in the breathtaking views that surround you. Conveniently located near shops and public transport, this home is perfectly positioned to maximize its spectacular vistas. This dream lifestyle is waiting for you – call today to arrange an inspection!

HOME FOCUS

COMFORT, SPACE AND LIFESTYLE ON AN ACRE

SET on a fully fenced 4,063sqm (approx.) block, this spacious four-bedroom, twobathroom brick home delivers the ideal combination of modern family living and relaxed outdoor lifestyle in a peaceful Cockatoo setting.

A double carport leads to the front verandah and main entry, where you’re welcomed by a tiled foyer, soaring 9-foot ceilings, large windows, and brand-new carpet that flows throughout. At the front, a carpeted lounge and adjoining study area provide flexible space to work or unwind, while the master bedroom enjoys a garden outlook, double corner built-in robes, and a private ensuite complete with a skylight.

The open-plan kitchen, dining, and second living zone sits at the heart of the home, warmed by a woodfire and seamlessly connected to the outdoors. The kitchen is well-equipped with an integrated oven, gas stovetop, raised dishwasher, fridge recess, excellent storage, and generous bench space. Step outside to the expansive undercover entertaining area, where tree-lined views and winding garden paths create a private and tranquil escape.

Down the hall, three additional bedrooms — all with built-in robes — are serviced by a central family bathroom, separate toilet, and a large laundry with external access.

Comfort is guaranteed year-round with gas ducted heating and evaporative cooling throughout, complementing the home’s bright and thoughtful design.

Outside, the lifestyle extras are plentiful. A fully powered 8m x 7.5m shed with concrete floor, gas heater, woodfire, air conditioning, the perfect man-cave set up! A lean-to offers superb functionality for trades or hobbies, with extra lock-up storage behind. There’s also a fire pit with seating, a built-in woodfire BBQ, gazebo, kids’ playset, woodshed, water tanks (10,000-litres approx) — all wrapped up in a private, family-ready setting among the trees.

This property has it all so don’t miss out - CALL TO ARRANGE A PRIVATE INSPECTION

TODAY! Call Bethany Sullivan 0438 844 968 or Aaron Day 0407 365 994.

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

AnIdyllic13acrepropertywithstunningruralcharm &moderncomforts. This13-acrelifestylepropertyinMacclesfieldcombinesruralcomfortwithmodernfunctionality.Step intothelounge,wherea wood-fireheater &a reversecycleairconditionerprovideyear-round comfort.3BRallwithBIR, aluxuriousbathroomfeaturinga claw-footbath& seperatetoilet.An exquisitekitchen\diningareawithbeautifulsandstoneflooring,900mmoven,doublefarmhousesink &walk-inscullery.ThemastersuitewithWIR &ensuite.Anundercoverentertainingspacewithbuilt-in BBQ,hot/coldrunningwater& barfridge.Outdoors, Adoublecarport,A doublecarportwithdirect accessto ahomeofficewith as/s,7 fullyfencedpaddockswithwater,electricfencing &shelters, 10.5m x9mmachineryshedwithtackroom,7.4mx 5.8menclosedworkshop,2 timberlinedstables, 20m x40mgrassedarena,damwith apump,6kWsolar,3 rainwatertankstotalling100,000litres.

AaronDay M 0407365994 BrennanMileto M 0422996451

HistoricCharminGembrook.

Thischarming2-bedroom,1-bathroomweatherboardhome,builtintheearly1900s,isoneof thefewremainingoriginalhomesinGembrook.Seton aspacious1239sqmblock,itcombines periodcharacterwithmoderncomfort.Theloungefeaturesoriginaltimberfloors,10-footceilings &baywindow,whilethesecondlivingareaoffers awoodfire &split-systemairconditioning.The masterbedroomhas aBIR &thekitchenincludestiledbenchtops,a gasstovetop&adoublesink overlookingthebackgarden.A sunroomconnectstothebathroom &separatetoilet.Thefully fencedbackyardisperfectforkids &pets,with apavedentertainingarea &undercoverstorage. Alargesinglegarage,3-phasepower& proximitytothePuffingBillytrainstationcompletethe package. Apeaceful,well-appointedhomewitha uniquehillslifestyle. 15aStationRoadGembrook$690,000

BethanySullivan M

CharmingOff-GridLivingin aSereneLocation,NOBILLS!

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

SamanthaScott M 0438680032

acresinYellingboblendsspace,versatility,andsemi-ruralcharm.Thoughtfullydesigned,itfeaturesa sunlitfoyer,open-planlivingwitha woodfire,and agranite-toppedkitchenoverlookingthegarden. Upstairs,themasterretreatincludesa walk-inrobe,ensuite,andbalconyaccess,while asecond bedroomorofficesharestheview.Idealforduallivingorextendedfamilies,therearwingoffersits ownkitchenette,living/dining,bathroom,laundry,andthreerobedbedrooms.Outdoors,enjoya doublecarport,powered9x7mshedwithtoilet,additionalstorage,fourpaddocks(onewithdam), anda 4000Ltank.Peacefulandprivate,thisisyourchancetosecure aspaciouslifestyleproperty withflexibilityandheart.

HOME FOCUS

SANCTUARY OF ELEGANCE NESTLED IN NATURE

TREAT yourself to a touch of opulence at this sophisticated, one-of-a-kind property situated only steps from lush parkland, walking trails, delicious village cafes and shops. Impeccably renovated with love and care and framed by a magnificent double-block. With beautiful features such as mature landscaped gardens, a relaxed firepit area, a convenient artists’ studio/shed and a double carport, this residence is a turn-key haven in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges that will appeal to all, including the discerning buyer.

This unparalleled home’s immaculate, private garden is matched only by its impressive interior that emphasizes the beauty of its natural surroundings. A “feel” of tranquility the moment you step inside this unique home, enhanced by sumptuous, high-end features with no expense spared and a gorgeous flow though-out the house to large surrounding decks and gardens, this is the ideal residence for anyone seeking a very special home. The formal lounge and dining area with polished original timber flooring is accentuated by a large crackling open wood fire. The versatile, enclosed home office (bonus living area) steps out to the open and covered decking that soaks up the leafy outlooks and forever changing blossoms during the seasons. At the heart of it all is the open plan informal dining area, a family room and chefs’ kitchen with butlers’ pantry, stone benchtops, glass splashbacks and a breakfast bar for company to join you whilst you cook. With consistency, the luxurious 3 queen bedrooms and 2 bathrooms are also determined to exceed expectations. The main bedroom with plush carpet, French hand-made chandelier, high quality Silk curtains and builtin robe is enriched with a modern ensuite with walk-in shower and floating vanity. The other two bedrooms are also presented with built-in robes and share the spa-like bathroom with a superb deep, slipper tub and relaxing rainfall shower.

This scenic property is a showcase of stylish, spacious and splendid Hills living. It will appeal to those seeking peace and privacy, a large lot with an abundance of different foliage and your own creek flowing through it that presents that “Je ne Sais Quoi” that sparingly gets offered in this area. Don’t delay, prompt viewing is advised to secure this special home. Impeccably renovated high-end residence with versatile artists’ studio/shed/teenagers’ pad

• Formal lounge and dining with timber floors and an open wood fire French chandeliers and high quality raw silk curtains

• Flexible office/living area with open and covered deck access

• Gourmet kitchen with butlers’ pantry, stone benchtops, and breakfast bar

Mature, lush landscaped gardens with a variety of flowers, a firepit area and double carport

• Ducted heating, outside cameras and automatic lighting and alarm system

• 2,152sqm (approx.) property within walking distance to Olinda village, cafes and shopping and a 5 min drive to all the magnificent botanical gardens that Olinda is famous for

LARGE ACREAGE BLISS WITH PEACE AND PRIVACY

ADMIRE and enjoy the amazing views all year round at this superb property, situated on just over 36 picturesque acres with a mix of undulating pasture and a bush setting it’s sure to impress! If you’re looking for the relaxed rural lifestyle with peace, privacy and picturesque surrounds this could be the one. The classic rustic mudbrick home is warm and inviting and has all the charm and ambience of a country escape offering 4 bedrooms plus an office/study area. The spacious lounge/ living areas offer great space for the whole family and it’s the perfect spot to sit back and enjoy the fantastic valley views. A separate meals/dining area has ample space for the growing family plus a large kitchen area and a very impressive combustion style oven and hotplate. Venture outside and you are spoilt for space and ideas with acres and acres to explore and enjoy. Ample car, trailer, truck or caravan accommodation with a large barn and loads of extra room to move, a blank canvas ready and waiting to create the ideal country lifestyle. It’s a great place to call home

TheCharmof aMudbrickina FernyOasis

Nestledonapproximately1,600m²oflush,greenlandandsurroundedbyvibrantnativegardens andserenadedbylocalbirdlife,thispropertyoffersstunningmountainviews,freshcountryair,and theultimateinoutdoorliving.Rusticandfullofcharm,thehomefeaturesthreegenerouslysized bedrooms,eachwithbuilt-inrobes.Theopenplankitchen,dining,andlivingareaboastsbeautiful timberbenchtopsand afreestandingmainsgasoven.Withsoaringceilingsandthenaturalthermal benefitsofmudbrickconstruction,thehomemaintainsa stabletemperatureyear-round.Outdoors; asinglegarageandcarport, acoveredentertainingareaidealforsummerbarbecues,andevena designatedchildren’splayzone.Thisuniqueandheartwarminghomeblendsrusticcharacterwith functionalcomfortsetinoneofWarburton’smostpicturesquepockets.

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068

SolidHomeinPeacefulSetting –WalktoYarraRiver& Shops! Whetheryou’rea savvyinvestororsearchingfortheperfectplacetocallhome,thisbrickhome deliversspace,comfort,andgreatvalue.Newlyrenovatedkitchenandbathroommeanthebig ticketitemsarealreadydone.Paintedthroughoutthehomehaslovelynaturallightandfeatures agenerousloungeandthreewell-proportionedbedroomsidealforfamiliesorthoseneedingextra space.Timberfloorsandsoftcarpetaddswarmth.Splitsystemwillcoveryourheatingandcooling needs.Thetranquilbackyardiscertainlythewelcominghubforeverydayliving.Outdoors,you’ll find alevel,lowmaintenanceyardand ahandyshed,greatforstorageortinkering.Nestledina quiet,familyfriendlystreet,thispropertyisjust ashortstrolltolocalshops,publictransport,andthe picturesqueYarraRiver.

FamilyLivingwithSpace,ViewsandConvenience Asuperbfamilyhomewithaflexiblefloorplanandconvenientlayoutthatwillsuitthegrowingor extendedfamily.Offering 5bedroomsallwithbuiltinrobesandspreadover2 levels,a greatsize familyroomanda separatelivingroomgivesthewholefamilyplentyofspacetorelaxandmove around.Thekitcheniswellappointedandhasamplebenchandcupboardspaceplus aseparate mealsarea.Sitback,relaxandenjoythefantasticvalleyviewsallyearroundfromthecovered verandah,whilstoverlookingthepicturesqueblockofapprox1687sqm.A greatcornerblock locationofferingeasyandconvenientaccessidealfortrailersandlargevehiclesplus alockup garageandplentyofextraparkingspace.Ideallysituatedjust ashortstrolltolocal,schools,shops andtransport.A greatfamilyhomein agreatlocation,situatedina quietandpeacefulstreet.

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

DavidCarroll M 0419539320

20WaterlooAvenue,Warburton

$770,000 -$800,000

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

ACROSS

1 Ensnare (6)

4 Amorous (8)

9 Elegance (7)

11 Non-professional (7)

12 Fruitless (11)

13 Large flightless bird (3)

14 Authenticity (8)

16 Alloy (5)

19 Liquid part of blood (5)

20 Love song (8)

22 Mischievous devil (3)

24 Fake (money) (11)

26 Give life to (7)

27 Leader of an Indigenous group (7)

29 Commonplace (8)

30 Globe (6)

DOWN

1 Goad, – on (3)

2 Explorer (9)

3 Distant (5)

5 Unclear (6)

6 Handy (9)

7 Subject (5)

8 Wary (11)

10 Repeat (6)

12 Inquire into (11)

15 System of government (9)

17 Ballet position (9)

18 Full of frantic activity (6)

21 Archimedes shouted it when making a discovery (6)

23 Group of lions (5)

25 Summary (5)

28 Day before (3)

No. 273

No. 241

Thrillers, draws and goals

By Justin Schwarze

Round eight of the Outer East Premier Division had absolutely everything on Saturday 31 May ahead of the mid-season break for King’s Birthday. Thriller games, a goal after the siren winner and even a draw.

The match between Officer and Healesville at Don Road Sporting Complex saw no winner, with the hosts’ accuracy coming to their rescue.

The Bloods kicked 9.6 to the Kangaroos’ 8.12 to knot the game at 60 when the final siren blared. Officer will be ruing the result, despite not losing, after leading by 13 points midway through the final frame.

A downfield free going to Charlie Warren saw Healesville draw within seven as Warren snapped it home from the pocket.

Four minutes later, a rushed behind by the Kangaroos backline brought the deficit to a straight kick.

As the clock ticked down, a kick inside 50 for the Bloods was intercepted by Jake Gains, but the umpire blew his whistle for a different reason.

Tyler De Jong went to shepherd for his teammate, but illegally held Warren out of the contest, giving the forward a free kick in a prime spot.

Warren went back and nailed his second fourth quarter snag to square the score at 60 with the last kick of the game.

While disappointing to miss out on the full four points, a strong performance away against a top four side was encouraging for Officer senior playing coach Nathan Allen.

“I thought that was the best we’ve played for four quarters as a team all year,” he said.

“Blokes accepted their roles and it showed, because their heads were in the game the whole time and it gave us a chance.

“And even though it took them until the last few minutes to get back to us, I thought we actually played the last five or 10 minutes really well.

“We created stoppage after stoppage, kept them to one side of the ground and they were good enough in the last minute to get to the open side and go end-to-end.

“I didn’t think there were too many standouts, but that was probably the best thing about it from the coaching group’s point.

“Everyone played their role, we weren’t relying on anyone but the talents were able to shine through and everyone else was doing their own thing.

“The pressure we were able to create was the best we’ve had all year and that’s what gave us a chance.

“It is a weird feeling, I keep thinking we could’ve won if we did one little thing differently but you can’t go back and change it, you’ve just got to accept it’s a draw and move on.”

Emerald wasn’t able to overcome its rough first quarter, letting Upwey Tecoma bag the first five goals of the match and take complete control.

The Tigers held a 0.2 (2) to 5.1 (31) quarter time advantage at Chandler Oval.

The Bombers outscored the visitors by over a goal for the remaining three quarters, but the damage was done early as the Tigers never looked back and coasted to a 9.12 (66) to 13.10 (88) victory.

Ewan Wadsworth posted 33 possessions and David Johnson booted three goals.

Gembrook Cockatoo were the latest guest of the Aaron Mullett show, with the Wandin superstar recording a bag of 12 goals.

The Bulldogs were yet again too good, winning

Top four almost set in stone

By David Nagel

The top-four in Outer East Division 1 Women’s football is almost set in stone after Belgrave, Pakenham and Woori Yallock were all held goalless by finals contenders on the weekend.

At Healesville, the clash of last year’s grand finalists turned into a painful affair for both teams, with Healesville wasting its opportunities and Pakenham failing to kick one through the big sticks.

Healesville eventually won 2.16(28) to 0.4(4), continuing a frustrating run of goalkicking in recent times.

The Bloods kicked 6.11 in round six, then 0.11 in round seven, before another inaccurate morning in front of goal against the Lions.

Healesville has now kicked 8.38 in its last three games of footy.

Madi Cameron and Belle Watson booted the goals for the winners while premiership players

Annalise Ryan, Sarah Connelly and Beth Quadara were among the best for the Lions.

In other games this week, sharp-shooter Olivia Edwards kicked seven goals in Olinda Ferny Creek’s 121-point victory over Woori Yallock, while Jess Occhipinti slammed home two majors in Upwey Tecoma’s six-goal win over Belgrave. Niamh Hunter-Clear and Dakota Roach were best for the Tigers while Charlotte Crabtree fought the game out for Belgrave.

In Division 2, Scarlett Henderson and Madi Ward kicked four goals each in Warburton Wesburn’s 95-point win over Emerald, while Kiara-Shae Ryan-Bader matched that total in Wandin’s 92-point defeat of Seville.

And four last-quarter goals led Thornton-Eildon to a 35-point win over Officer, with Kristy Pearce kicking three goals for the winners.

Ava Cipriani, Molly Walters and Breana Granger were best afield for Officer.

22.14 (146) to 7.6 (48) at home.

Cody Hirst had 27 disposals and three goals for Wandin, while Robin Nahas picked up numbers of 39 disposals, 35 of which were kicks, and 10 marks.

Mount Evelyn pulled out one of the wins of the season, upsetting Monbulk with a kick after the siren.

With the game even at three quarter time, the Rovers snagged four of the first five majors of the final term.

The Hawks responded with two goals but also a myriad of behinds, hitting the front after 34 minutes played when gun Lochie Beecroft slapped through a rushed minor score.

The ball ended up in Mount Evelyn’s forward 50, when Robert Savory dived on the loose footy out of a rucking contest and was pinged for failing to attempt to release the ball.

Daimon Kift was the tackler and as he walked

back and composed himself, the siren went. Kift ran in and drilled home his set shot, being immediately swarmed by his teammates and the home crowd.

As the ball sailed through the big sticks, the score moved to the Rovers 10.8 (68) defeating Monbulk 8.15 (63).

At Woori Yallock Reserve, another thriller took place in one of the most anticipated matchups of the season.

The Tigers squeezed past Olinda Ferny Creek 9.8 (62) to 8.13 (61) in a nailbiter.

The usual difference makers of Taylor Gibson and Matt Scharenberg were at their best, with Gibson booting six goals and Scharenberg notching stats of 29 disposals, 12 marks, three tackles and a goal.

A behind from Kody Busoli’s set shot near the 21 minute mark proved to be the match winner for Woori Yallock.

Support for road safety

The government is calling on grassroots football and netball clubs to promote road safety in their communities for a share of $700,000 thanks to the Transport Accident Commission’s (TAC) Club Rewards Program.

This year’s program aims to empower clubs to develop a culture where all players and members consider road safety before getting behind the wheel.

Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Hornesaidthatlastyeartheysupportedmorethan 230 grassroots clubs for shining a light on road safety.

“We want more clubs to get involved this year to ensure every journey on Victoria’s roads is a safe one,” she said.

Now in its sixth year, the TAC Club Rewards ProgramallowsAFLVictoria-affiliatedfootballand netball clubs to apply for rewards of up to $10,000 tospendonclubinitiativeslikeclubtransport,new equipment and uniforms or facility upgrades.

TAC CEO Tracey Slatter said footballers and netballersoftendrivehundredsofkilometresevery year, travelling to and from training and matches, so road safety is something that needs to be front of mind.

Afurther$100,000hasbeenaddedtothisyear’s funding pool to support more clubs in spreading the message.

More than 230 clubs earned a share of last year’s pool, with many motivated to take part after being affected by road tragedy.

As part of this year’s program, clubs will be asked to start conversations and be part of the campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of speeding, with the tagline – “Be the difference”.

Gippsland’s Lucknow Football Netball Club and Barwon’s Western Eagles Football Netball

This year’s program aims to empower clubs to develop a culture where all players and members consider road safety before getting behind the wheel. (Unsplash).

Club were last year’s top recipients, and were rewarded for their impressive social media campaigns and road safety-themed initiatives like ‘Deso Discounts’ and peer-to-peer videos.

Today’s launch comes as 133 people have lost their lives on Victorian roads, with more than 60 percentofdeathshappeningonthesameregional roads that footballers and netballers travel on for games every week.

Head of AFL Victoria Greg Madigan said grassroots football clubs are full of leaders.

“Now is the chance for everyone to be the difference by becoming road safety ambassadors, making safe decisions and acting as role models to their fellow members,” he said.

More information on the Club Rewards Program can be found at play.afl/victoria/tacclubrewards

Big fella Steven Kapahnke was yet again stellar for Emerald in the loss to Upwey Tecoma. (Rob Carew: 481282)

Holly Simmons and Bella Rob enjoying the game with Officer. (Stewart Chambers: 479941)

Barkerettes win at last

By Peter Stephenson

There were so many reasons this game could have gone wrong for Barkerettes. The weather was cold and blustery. The spine was ripped out of the team before kick-off, with injury and illness ruling out Ash Fraraccio, Alexis Sketchley and Amy D’Ortenzio. They had a debut goalkeeper who had, minutes ago, been on the receiving end of a big scoreline. They had not even scored a goal in the last four games.

Yes there were plenty of excuses available as bottom-of-the-ladder Barkers hosted Malvern (eighth). None of this, though, was evident at the start, as Barkers began brightly. On seven minutes, the first of many excellent corners from the right by Charlotte Martin saw Eleanor Ridley have a shot deflected wide.

The first test of keeper Ashley Barrueto’s confidence came on 14 minutes, when a shot straight at her was comfortably held. Five minutes later, Malvern’s Luisa Sanchez, scorer of the winner at Kooyong Park last season, fired a shot in. Again, Barrueto was untroubled.

Barkers’ best chance of the half came on 23 minutes, when a run down the left saw a cross to Martin, whose shot scraped the outside of the post. Then a big scare as a Malvern forward was put through with only Barrueto to beat, but she was alert, got to the ball first and booted it clear.

Four minutes before the break, Malvern won a free-kick on the 18 yard line. Yari Aguado drove the ball into the Barkers’ wall, then she hit the rebound back towards goal, but Barrueto had it covered. In a game of few chances, the last word of the half fell to Miranda Jackson, whose shot was saved by Malvern keeper Helen Carroll. Halftime 0-0.

The second half saw Barkers work very hard,

having the lion’s share of the territory. Charlotte McCullough, whose first touch at times was sublime, almost broke free on 54 minutes, but was offside. Two minutes later, a Martin corner from the right almost saw Ridley score a blinder, but her volley went over.

Then with 19 minutes to go, the Malvern defence, which had been pretty solid all night, went to sleep as the ball pinged around the six-yard box. Martin poked the ball through the hesitant defenders, and it trickled into the far side of the net to give Barkers the lead.

Tails up, Barkers kept attacking. With five minutes to go, Emily Stokes flew down the left

Bold Burras bury the Lions

By Justin Schwarze

It was a weekend of shock for Pakenham as the Lions lost their first game of the season against a strong Warburton Millgrove side in round eight of the Outer East Division 1 A Grade Netball competition.

The Burras were hot out of the gates at home, jumping to a 18-6 quarter time advantage before Pakenham settled and drew closer before halftime.

At the main break, the hosts were still in front 25-17.

In the second half, Warburton Millgrove stood up and answered the call, taking both quarters comfortably to cruise to a 54-36 win.

Caitlin Cooke was at her best, while Eliza Molino and Lara Goodman Hancock were also very impressive for the Lions.

At Belgrave Reserve, the Magpies were knocked off 42-48 by the visiting Yarra Junction thanks to Tayla McCormack, Jade Rogers and Stephanie Ratcliff.

Alexandra just edged out Yea 55-48 as Jorja Gesler led the way with a standout performance of 38 goals.

Yarra Glen coasted to a comfortable 24-62 victory over Powelltown on the road.

Despite having a bye, Seville moved to first place on the table with Pakenham’s loss.

In the top flight, Emerald’s highly impressive run continued, dominating the visiting Upwey Tecoma 68-39.

After leading 34-18 at halftime, the Bombers strung together a complete performance to roll in the second half and get the big result.

Brodie Smith was fantastic and skipper Casey Rhodes-Anderson contributed yet another captain’s performance in defence.

Alice Paget was also noteworthy in midcourt, controlling the tempo for now third-positioned Emerald.

ROC couldn’t quite bounce back and fell short in a close affair away at Healesville.

Trailing by just one score 28-27 at halftime had the Kangaroos in a good spot, but the hosts responded to take the third and a five-goal advantage into the final break.

The Bloods stood tall to claim the fourth 18-14 and drag out the 59-50 result.

Skipper Isabella O’Shanassy scored 33 goals and was sublime for ROC, while Jade McGuire and Jessica Postregna supported her well in defeat.

Gembrook Cockatoo was overwhelmed by an elite Wandin side at home, going down 82-43.

Bianca Nagel played well for the Brookers and Rachel Williams and Brylee O’Neil were also strong performers in the loss.

and put the ball on a plate for Martin. However, Carroll somehow made a great point-blank save. In the last few minutes it was the Barkers defence in panic mode but they held out for their first league win of the season.

This was a gripping game between two sides still coming to terms with the step up from State 3 to State 2. From my limited viewpoint it was clear that, in the Malvern defence, left-back Adele Nicolas and centre-half Suanne Lee knew exactly what they were doing and would be no pushovers. Barkers, though, worked their socks off. Their defence was also sound, with Holly White coming on in leaps and bounds. This may be the game that kick-starts the Barkerettes’ season.

Mount Evelyn stayed undefeated in the club’s Ladies Day, overpowering Monbulk 49-32.

The Hawks led at the first change before the Rovers took control and were forceful for the remainder of the game. In a shootout at Woori Yallock Reserve, the Tigers got the four points against Olinda Ferny Creek 50-47.

The visiting Bloods snatched a 14-16 quarter time advantage before Woori Yallock jumped back in front 27-26 at the main intermission.

Barkers lose to St Kilda

By Peter Stephenson

Bleak, windswept, rainy, dodgy pitch. A typical midwinter away game as Barkers (sixth) took on St Kilda (second), knowing a win was needed to keep in touch with the top four at halfway. Barkers made one change to the side which beat Chisholm 4-3, with Ryan Smith coming in for Anthony Di Crea.

Barkers began brightly, as Ross Clark played out to Danny Aye on the left, but his shot was blocked.

St Kilda set their stall out early to be physical, but this didn’t bother Barkers, who were having the better of the play. On 13 minutes, a free-kick on the left from Aye was curled towards goal, forcing the St Kilda keeper to punch from under his bar. Then Barkers keeper Vladi Velikin pumped the ball upfield for Aye. He put the ball through for Tristan Walker to chase, but the keeper beat him to the ball. On 19 minutes, a snap shot from Marcus Watson went wide, and that was as good as it got for Barkers in the first half.

Five minutes later, a St Kilda corner from the right was headed clear by Sean Perrin. It fell to St Kilda’s Declan Doherty, who drove a low shot just past the far post. Then just before the half hour, Barkers gave the ball away on their right defensive flank. The cross came in, and Jack Lynch rose to head home from close range it make it 1-0 St Kilda, very much against the run of play.

St Kilda then took over for the rest of the half, without really threatening. Half-time: St Kilda 1-0 Mooroolbark, with Barkers playing well for 25 minutes before switching off and allowing the hosts to take the initiative.

The hosts slightly extended their cushion to four goals at the final break, before riding out the victory.

With eight rounds down, Mount Evelyn’s unblemished record has it on top, while Wandin sits behind in second.

Emerald lies in third, while Monbulk and Woori Yallock round out the top five.

ROC and Gembrook Cockatoo have a lot of work to do, currently placed ninth and tenth respectively.

Within three minutes of the restart, Aye almost played Watson in on goal, but then disaster struck. St Kilda broke down the left, a shot came in, and a defender intercepted, but put it into his own net to put St Kilda 2-0 up. Barkers huffed and puffed in the miserable conditions, with Walker and Aye the biggest threats. However, it was the hosts who almost increased their lead when a thunderous volley was brilliantly turned over by Velikin. Barkers finished the game well but to no effect. On 73 minutes, a lovely move involving Aye and Walker released Clark, but Clark’s first touch was just too heavy and keeper Sean Hyland gathered. Ray Markley played Aye in, but he shot over. Then in stoppage time, Clark wriggled free of the defence but shot past the post. Full time: St Kilda 2-0 Mooroolbark. Barkers paid the price of a couple of errors, yet for large chunks of each half looked the better side. Halfway through the season and they are halfway in the ladder, with the gap to the leaders slowly increasing.

The Barkerettes had their first win of the season at home against Malvern. (Mooroolbark Soccer Club)

Lara Goodman Hancock was among Pakenham’s best in the Lions’ defeat at the hands of Warburton Millgrove. (Gary Sissons: 478103)

A snap shot from Marcus Watson in the first half unfortunately went wide. (File: 343538)

They

FOOTY TIPSTERS

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

Follow Carlton ( yes I know!) from young age, Mike Fitzpatrick no. 3 was on my footy jumper at school

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

Motorsport, family activities

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

Yes, have been an Estate Agent for 40 years and helped hundreds of people find a home or sell one

4. What’s your favourite type of cuisine? Italian, Pasta or Steak

5. What are 3 words that describe you best?

active, helpful, experienced

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

A pilot, my father was for many years and I enrolled in RAAF at 18, then decided not to!

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

Oscar Piastri, F1 driver and an exciting young Aussie talent to hear from, or Sam Failla as he knows everything 

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

Probably to enjoy life as much as possible, it goes so quick and there is so much to do!

BEST PRICE, BEST TANKS WITH A LIFETIME GUARANTEE

Concrete tanks built correctly will last a lifetime!

Terry Miller from Terry Miller Concrete Tanks has been in the concrete tank building business for nearly 30 years. Being from country Victoria himself, Terry realises the importance of good water storage systems.

Concrete water tanks built correctly will last a lifetime. They keep your water cool, clean and algae free. This is because our tanks have 130mm walls and a 300mm base, and are poured with 40-mpa strength concrete not 25 or 30 mpa. We also use plasticiser to keep up the strength in the tanks instead of water. And after 28 days of curing the strength of the concrete will be between 48 and 52 mpa. And each tank is poured individually on site. These tanks come out white, which is a sign of the strength in the tanks. The MPA is a measure of how much concrete there is as parts per 1000. The walls of the tank are vibrated all around to ensure that there are no air bubbles and that the concrete is compacted down. Terry generally builds tanks in three sizes, 50,000, 105,000 and 120,000 either with a silo (metal) roof, concrete top or open top tanks.

The tanks will not blow away or fall apart, and this is particularly important in areas where there is high wind, or in fire prone districts. In the event of a fire, a large tank (120,000 litres) can supply water back up to the main house. By setting up a petrol powered generator and pumping water up onto the house directly, via a reverse water sprinkler system, you will keep your home cool and wet. Or if need be, you can jump into the tank to keep cool and be protected from flames and radiant heat. Water is our most important resource, and we cannot have too much of it! So for all your water storage needs when you are thinking of installing your next tank, please call Terry for a quote on 0419 462 814 or 02 6026 7021 or check out our website, www.terrymillerconcretetanks.com.au.

Nearly four years ago, we suffered our own fire here, in Barnawartha, and we were lucky. But it made me realise how important good water storage is. We are in for a long, hot, dry summer, and fire restrictions are in. Having an ample supply of safely stored water is imperative. So why not contact Terry now about your water supply needs, BEFORE, the heat builds up and water scarce. There is nothing more refreshing than your own cool, clear, clean water!