Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 10th June 2025

OK! Police! Freeze! (for MND)

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

The Belgrave Police Station car park turned into a hub of laughter and community spirit for the Big Freeze 2025 event last Monday, 2 June.

From 2.30 to 3.30 pm, police officers, and the community joined together to raise funds and awareness for Motoneuron Disease (MND). The highlight was the ice-cold plunge, where officers and volunteers braved buckets of icy water in support of those living with MND.

“We saw this as a great cause and an opportunity to promote awareness in a way that the community could get behind,” Belgrave Police, Jason Fox said.

Local figures, including the Belgrave Wizard Baba Desi, also participated, amplifying the message on social media. The event raised over $1000 for MND research.

To continue reading, turn to page 10

Richly rewarded

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Two exceptional individuals from the Dandenong Ranges have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to community service and emergency response.

Chris May from Emerald, a dedicated veteran and volunteer, has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his decades of service.

A former Australian Army soldier and founder of ‘Young Veterans’, Mr May has made a lasting impact, particularly in supporting younger veterans.

“This isn’t just about me, it’s a recognition of everyone who has supported me, my family, my colleagues, and the communities I’ve served,” he said.

His tireless advocacy for mental health and his efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, including

a record-breaking fundraiser for Lifeline, highlight his commitment to serving others.

Meanwhile, Macclesfield CFA captain Sharon Kennelly-Merritt has been honoured with the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) for her incredible work in firefighting and animal rescue.

A trailblazer for women in the CFA, she became the first female captain in the Dandenong Ranges Group.

“I really believe in letting members take con-

trol of areas they’re passionate about,” she said.

Her work during catastrophic bushfires, including the 2009 Black Saturday fires, and her pioneering efforts in large animal rescue have made a lasting impact on both her brigade and the broader community.

Both recipients are living examples of dedication, leadership, and service, with their legacies continuing to shape their communities.

Read their stories on pages 4 and 5

MP Violi gets a promotion

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 Opposition 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.

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

Four hard years on, a family moves back

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

This Monday, 9 June, marks four-years since the destructive storm that devastated parts of the Dandenong Ranges, including the home of Kalorama resident, Natalie Guest.

In the wake of that harrowing night, Ms Guest’s family lost everything – their house, their sense of security, and their community. What followed was a prolonged battle to rebuild their lives, one fraught with red tape, bureaucratic hurdles, and heartbreaking setbacks.

For Ms Guest, the journey towards rebuilding her home was not just about construction but about navigating a complex system of insurance claims, council regulations, and environmental overlays, all while grappling with the emotional toll of losing the place she had once called home.

“Once the storm hit, it felt like everything was just ripped away. Not only did we lose our home, but we had to face a never-ending battle with insurance companies, banks, and councils,” Ms Guest said.

“But the hardest part was seeing our home disappear before our eyes. It felt like it was all slipping away, and there was nothing we could do about it.”

For a long time, it seemed like the approval to rebuild was a distant hope.

“We were living in limbo for years,” she said.

“It was almost surreal. My husband couldn’t even drive past the block for a long time. He couldn’t bring himself to see it. It was just too painful.”

While her husband struggled to come to terms with the loss, Ms Guest threw herself into the fight.

“It became my fight every day,” she said.

“I knew I had to keep pushing, or we’d lose everything. I spent countless hours with architects, builders, and council officials, making sure the process moved forward.”

The road to approval was long and often discouraging. Between dealing with the stress of insurance claims, managing the financial complexities, and tackling the bureaucratic maze of council overlays and planning permissions, there were moments when it seemed like it would never end.

“I kept thinking, ‘Is this really happening? Are we ever going to get back into our home?’” she said.

For Ms Guest, the real turning point came when the first physical signs of the rebuild began.

“When the pylons for the stilts went into the ground, that’s when it felt real,” she said.

“It was the first time in years that I saw something happening on the land again. Seeing the holes being drilled - it was surreal, but it was also the beginning of something. It felt like we were finally moving forward.”

But even after the green light for construction, the challenges didn’t stop.

“The electricity company, the banks…it was like everyone had forgotten about us,” Ms Guest said.

“We were living in a brand-new house, but still without electricity for weeks and no internet until March this year. It’s just been one thing after another.”

Despite these setbacks, Ms Guest has remained resolute.

“It’s been a hard four years, but we’ve made

it. We’re still here, and we’re rebuilding our lives. The community has been a huge support, and we’ve kept fighting because we love this place. We love the street. We love the people. We love where we live,” she said.

Now that construction is underway, Ms Guest is finally starting to find some peace.

“The garden is where I heal. We’ve been moving plants around for years, trying to keep them safe. Now we’re finally putting them back in the earth,” she said.

“It’s amazing to see everything start to come together again. It’s a completely different space, but it’s our space, and it feels so rewarding.”

As the four-year milestone since the storm looms, Ms Guest has a message for those still battling to rebuild, many of whom remain displaced and uncertain about what lies ahead.

“Keep your chin up, lean into each other, and never be afraid to ask for help,” she said.

“If I can help anyone with advice or support, I’m always happy to chat. The stormtroopers, the community here have had each other’s backs through this whole process, and we’ll continue to do so.”

The storm that took so much from Kalorama has also brought out the best in its residents. From neighbours supporting each other to shared knowledge and resources, the community has remained a lifeline for many, even as the bureaucratic battles continue.

Ms Guest’s story is one of resilience, determination, and a deep love for the place she calls home. Though the scars of that night are still fresh, she and her family are now on the path to healing, a path that has been long and challenging but ultimately rewarding.

IN BRIEF

Belgrave Police Operation Bound

Belgrave Police detected 36 offending drivers during Operation “BOUND” in the Belgrave area on 27 May and 3 June.

Members were set up in Burwood Highway, Belgrave.

A number of offences were detected during the operation, including: 32 mobile phone offences, an open container offence, two over double lines offences, a drive whilst disqualified brief, and executed two warrants.

Police urge snow travellers to plan ahead as Alpine season begins 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,” Mr Arbuthnot said.

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. Wheel chains are essential for navigating steep, icy roads and can be the difference between staying on the road or sliding off it. Those planning a snow trip, particularly day-trippers, are urged to familiarise themselves with alpine road rules and conditions, and ensure they have a backup plan in place should the weather change or access be restricted. Other key safety tips for those heading to the snow include:

■ Ensure your car’s radiator is filled with anti-freeze and if diesel use Alpine Mix.

■ Drive cautiously with gradual pressure on the accelerator to avoid wheel spin.

■ Brake gently and avoid unnecessary gear changes.

■ Maintain a safe braking distance from vehicles in front, especially in poor visibility.

■ Let someone know where you are going and how long you will be.

■ Regularly check weather and snow conditions as conditions can change quickly.

■ If lost – stop, seek shelter, call Triple Zero (000) and wait.

Police will also maintain a visible presence across the snowfields with local police, highway patrol, the Heavy Vehicle Unit, Liquor Control Victoria officers and dedicated alpine police conducting proactive patrols and enforcement during the season.

244 Maroondah

The rebuilding process of Ms Guest’s home, following a four-year struggle. (Supplied)

Ms Guest’s rebuilt home in Kalorama. (Supplied)

KING’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS

Sharon’s Fire Service Medal

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Macclesfield CFA captain, Sharon Kennelly-Merritt’s unwavering commitment to the CFA has earned her the prestigious Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours.

After nearly three decades of service to both CFA and her local community, Ms Kennelly-Merritt’s recognition is a testament to the profound impact she’s made on firefighting, animal rescue, and leadership in the CFA.

Joining the CFA in 1996 as a volunteer firefighter, Ms Kennelly-Merritt’s journey has been one of remarkable growth and dedication.

Her passion for firefighting was sparked years before she officially joined, when she saw a brigade respond to a fire near her previous home.

“I saw a brigade turn out to a fire where I was living before, and it looked like fun. I thought, yeah, I’d like to do that,” she said.

Despite initial hesitations about joining a predominantly male-dominated field, Ms KennellyMerritt’s determination led her to Macclesfield Fire Brigade, where she would soon become the first woman to hold the role of captain in the Dandenong Ranges Group.

“At first, I thought, ‘There’ll be a lot of blokes, and they won’t want a woman,’” she said. But with time and courage, Ms Kennelly-Merritt became an integral part of the brigade, going on to lead it for over 21 years.

Her leadership style is built on trust and empowerment, believing in giving control to her team members.

“I really believe in letting members take control of areas they’re passionate about or have expertise in,” Ms Kennelly-Merritt said.

“I try not to micromanage, let them take charge and run with it.”

Her commitment to leadership has not only shaped the brigade’s culture but has also doubled

the number of women firefighters within Macclesfield Fire Brigade.

Ms Kennelly-Merritt’s mentorship has inspired a new generation of female firefighters, encouraging them to take leadership roles and break through barriers that once existed in the fire service.

“When I joined, it was very male-dominated. A lot of men were okay with women being in the brigade, but they didn’t want to be told what to do by a woman,” she said.

“Over time, as more women joined and took on leadership roles, it became more accepted. Now, it’s the norm.”

In addition to her leadership in the brigade, Ms Kennelly-Merritt’s service spans numerous significantfireincidents,bothlocallyandinternationally.

Notable among these are the catastrophic 2009 Black Saturday fires and the devastating 2019-2020

bushfire season, where she played a crucial role as a safety officer and fire behaviour analyst.

“The 2009 fires were probably the worst. It was like going to a third-world country to see how many people were displaced and the high death toll,” she said.

Her experience also led her to international deployments, including to Canada, where she faced unique challenges not often encountered in Australian firefighting.

“In Canada, I had to deal with bears and cougars, things we don’t normally worry about here,”

Ms Kennelly-Merritt said with a laugh.

“It was a different world, but the principles of safety and firefighting remain the same.”

One of Ms Kennelly-Merritt’s proudest achievements, however, is her pioneering work in large animal rescue. Seeing the need for specialised response during bushfires and floods, she helped

establish one of only two large animal rescue units in Victoria.

“We’re called out for animal rescues, especially horses and cows, which are common in our area,” Ms Kennelly-Merritt said.

“The number of rescues has grown significantly over the past decade, and we’re one of the few brigades with the necessary equipment to do this safely.”

Her brigade’s large animal rescue capability has become a vital resource for the community, ensuring that animals in distress are rescued safely and efficiently, particularly during intense bushfire seasons. The knowledge, equipment, and training required for such rescues make it a critical service, and Ms Kennelly-Merritt’s leadership in this area has been a game-changer.

Reflecting on her recognition with the Australian Fire Service Medal, Ms Kennelly-Merritt expressed immense gratitude and humility.

“I was incredibly honoured to receive it,” she said.

“I had no idea I was even nominated until a few weeks before finding out I had won. I don’t even know who nominated me, but I’m very thankful.”

Now retired from her role as a CFA staff member, Ms Kennelly-Merritt remains a dedicated volunteer, continuing to lead the Macclesfield brigade.

Her work doesn’t stop there; she also conducts planned burns for CFA, works as a fire investigator, and has a deep passion for fire behaviour science.

“I love investigating fires and figuring out the cause,” she said. “It’s like solving a puzzle, and I find it fascinating.”

As for the future, Ms Kennelly-Merritt is committed to continuing her work and mentoring the next generation of firefighters.

“I’ll keep doing what I’ve always done,” she said.

“I enjoy seeing others progress and getting as much enjoyment out of the service as I have.”

Sharon Kennelly-Merritt honoured with AFSM for three decades of service. (Stewart Chambers: 482350)

KING’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS

OAM for Emerald’s Chris May

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Emerald resident, Chris May has been honoured with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his outstanding commitment to the veteran and emergency services communities. The 35-yearold’s service spans decades, from his time with the Australian Regular Army to his significant volunteer work with the CFA, the SES, and his efforts to support and advocate for veterans.

For Mr May, the recognition is not just about his own work, but about the community that has supported him throughout his journey.

“This isn’t just about me,” he said. “It’s a recognition of everyone who has supported me, my wife, my family, my colleagues, and all those who have helped make the causes I believe in possible.”

Service has always been a constant in Mr May’s life. After spending much of his adult life in the Australian Defence Force, either as a full-time soldier or a part-time reservist, he turned his attention to his local community in Emerald when he and his wife started their family.

“I’ve spent most of my adult life serving others, either in the military or in various volunteer roles. When we moved to Emerald, it became clear to me that my focus was going to be on giving back to the community,” Mr May said. “It’s about Australians supporting each other, giving everyone a fair go.”

His time in the army wasn’t without its challenges. In 2011, Mr May was wounded in a bomb blast in Afghanistan, returning home at just 21 years old as a wounded veteran.

This experience triggered a sense of disconnect for him between the term “veteran” and his own age. “When I returned home, I was struggling with the identity of being a veteran. I’d go into schools and ask kids to picture what a veteran looked like. They always imagined an older man, with medals and a suit,” he said.

“When I walked in with my beret and my medals, they were shocked. At 21, I couldn’t understand how I could be called a veteran.”

This experience, along with his brother, led to the creation of Young Veterans in 2013.

“The idea was to help others who, like me, struggled with the concept of being labelled a veteran at such a young age,” Mr May said.

The initiative was aimed at providing younger veterans with a space to connect, offering activities tailored to their age group, such as fishing trips and outdoor adventures like paddle boarding and bike riding. What began as a small local project has now grown into a nationwide movement that continues to make a real difference.

While Mr May has since stepped back from his role with Young Veterans, the initiative remains a significant part of his life.

“It’s incredible to see how much it has grown. It’s still helping people in ways I couldn’t have imagined back then,” he said. “And knowing that it’s still running, and that people are still benefiting from it, is very rewarding.”

Outside of Young Veterans, Mr May has been involved in countless other causes. From his role as a volunteer firefighter and emergency rescue operator to his advocacy for mental health and homelessness among veterans, Mr May’s commitment to the community has been unwavering.

One of his most significant efforts came during the Covid-19 lockdowns. Despite the many challenges of the pandemic, Mr May was determined to support the mental health of his colleagues in the emergency services.

“I saw how the pandemic was affecting people’s mental health, especially in the emergency services. It was tough for everyone, but especially for those of us who were still working on the frontlines,” Mr May said. “I thought to myself, ‘If I can do something to help, I will.’”

This led him to take part in a virtual firefighter stair climb to raise funds for Lifeline. What started as a simple challenge turned into an extraordinary feat of endurance, with Mr May climbing the equivalent of Mount Everest on a stair machine over 17 hours, raising $25,000 in the process.

“It was gruelling, but it was worth it,” Mr May said. “Mental health is something close to my heart, and if I can help even just one person, it’s all worth it.”

When Mr May found out he had been awarded the OAM, it was a moment of personal reflection.

“I didn’t expect it. I’ve received a few awards over the years, but this one feels different. It’s the culmination of everything I’ve done, and it’s incredibly humbling,” he said. “It’s not just my achievement. It’s a recognition of all the people who’ve supported me along the way. This is for my family, my colleagues, the communities I’ve served and for everyone who’s been part of this journey.”

While the OAM is the pinnacle of recognition, Mr May’s journey is far from over.

“This award is a reminder that I’m not doing this alone. It’s about the team effort, the people who stand by me, and the support of the community at large,” he said.

“And for me, it’s about continuing to serve. That’s what keeps me going.”

Film screening and Q&A with

Join us in celebrating our vibrant multicultural community at the Fusion Festival, a FREE event open to everyone.

The festival will be followed by a screening of multiaward-winning photographer and filmmaker Barat Ali Batoor’s acclaimed full-length documentary, ‘Batoor: A Refugee Journey’ at 6.30pm.

Following the screening, a Q&A session with Barat will take place. Due to the mature themes present in Batoor’s film this event is advised for mature audiences aged 18 years and over.

Bookings are required for this event and can be made via cardinia.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/149346

The 2025 Fusion Festival will take place on Friday 20 June from 3.30pm to 6pm at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, Pakenham. The film screening of ‘Batoor: A Refugee Journey’ will commence from 6.30pm.

Chris May at the Australian War Memorial after receiving the Jonathan Church Ethical Soldier of the Year Award in 2017. (Supplied)

Chris May carrying the Commonwealth Games Queens Baton representing Victrorian Veterans, 2017.

Chris climbing the height of Mt Everest on a stair machine for mental health during Covid Lockdowns. (249896)

Chris participating in the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb raising money for Mental Health, Cancer Research and supporting our Emergency Services personnel. Chris and his son Henry, ANZAC Day in Emerald, 2024.

Puffing Billy riles residents

By Ava Cashmore

Construction of a new shed by Puffing Billy Railway has reignited tensions between the heritage railway and local residents who say they were not adequately communicated with about the project.

The new shed is being built within the railway corridor at Menzies Creek Station, but has drawn criticism for both its scale, proposed colour scheme and the lack of communication with nearby homeowners.

Menzies Creek resident, Zachory Benton, is arguably the most impacted homeowner by the new shed, it being located directly below his backyard.

However, it is his two and a half year old daughter, Saskia that will be truly devastated by the obstruction.

“The train is such an amazing part of her childhood, she absolutely loves it,” Mr Benton said.

“She comes out and waves to everyone as they’re going past all the time... And now that’s going to be mostly blocked off.”

Puffing Billy’s management has previously come under fire for a lack of transparency, most notably during a failed proposal brought to the table by Amplitel to build a 35-metre mobile phone tower on PBR land last year.

That plan was eventually abandoned after community backlash and intervention by the railway’s board.

The current works involve constructing an upgraded maintenance facility at a site historically used for undercarriage repairs.

PBR Facilities Manager, Eugene Makaay, communicated to Mr Benton that the work was necessary, stating, “the existing pit was well past its useful life and needed maintenance rectification works.”

“The structure updates are required to meet modern working conditions for staff,” Mr Makaay said.

Mr Benton said the communication of the

structure sets a concerning precedent.

“What’s the next thing they’re going to look at building? The tower was a perfect example — something they didn’t communicate clearly until halfway through,” he said.

“I completely understand what they’re trying to do... but this just seems a bit over the top.”

Residents living within the Puffing Billy Corridor face strict planning requirements for their own properties — including restrictions on building height, setbacks, and even colour schemes.

Planning documents show that on 3 March 2025, PBR sought advice from Yarra Ranges

Council as to required planning permits, who confirmed on 18 March, no planning permit was required under Transport Zone 1 zoning for railways.

Neighbouring resident, Bill Batten, said these double standards breed resentment.

“If I want to put up a carport, Puffing Billy gets to say what colour it is. But they can build a massive shed behind my neighbour’s house without even knocking on the door,” said Bill.

According to Mr Batten, Puffing Billy chief executive officer, Stephanie Stroud, has previously pledged a commitment to more community engagement, following the mobile tower dispute.

Mr Batten said he doesn’t fault her personally, but believes the organisation’s methods must change.

“All it would’ve taken was a letter, a conversation — just some basic decency,” he said.

“They say they care about the community, but they’re not living up to their own mission statement.”

On 1 May, Mr Benton contacted Puffing Billy Railway (PBR) to raise his concerns regarding the

new shed.

The following day, Ms Stroud apologised via email, admitting PBR “should have communicated the intent to conduct works in the rail corridor,” and offered to meet with neighbours directly.

Mr Benton, via Yarra Ranges Shire Council, is now in discussion with PBR to discuss colour options for the shed, which was originally planned to be painted in PBR heritage colours.

Mr Benton described the choices provided as “uninspiring”.

“The best of the bunch was something that had semi-clear perspex on the top third, and green corrugated iron on the bottom two-thirds.”

Residents believe the project was rushed through without adequate community engagement.

“It’s not about opposing progress. It’s about working with the community to make it bearable,” Mr Batten said.

Both PBR and Yarra Ranges Shire Council declined to comment on the matter.

Menzies Creek resident, Bill Batten, watching the construction of a new, unwanted shed in the Puffing Billy Railway corridor. (Ava Cashmore: 482739)

The shed blocking the view of the train from Zachory Benton’s back porch. (Ava Cashmore: 482739)

“They say they care about the community, but they’re not living up to their own mission statement,” said Menzies Creek resident, Bill Batten. (Ava Cashmore: 482739)

Landmark Leadbeater’s Possum find in southern NSW

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 meetings to consider and respond to the implications.”

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.”

Help end wildlife roadstrike

By Afraa Kori

Wildlife rescuers are calling upon councils, alongside local MPs, in proposing to implement the following actions to the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP), as a minimum, to help reduce the ongoing slaughter.

- Speed limits to be reduced during the time from dusk to dawn, when wildlife is mostly active. Speeds of 60-70 km would provide breaking efficiency when encountered with wildlife.

- The installation of Virtual Fencing throughout this entire 21 km stretch of road. These virtual fences actively alerts animals prior to crossing the road as cars approach, by emitting a combination of sound and flashing light stimuli. Testing has seen a 50% reduction of vehicle collisions. As there are known hotspots, in my findings, there is no safe zone for wildlife to cross.

- The use of electronic or solar panel VMS signage – displaying vehicle speeds and can relay messages to drivers of wildlife crossing and activity.

Emerald resident Leanne Sultana, a wildlife rescuer, has been lobbying to Knox, Yarra Ranges, Cardinia Council and local MPs, but says that after years of back-and-forth with little response, the experience has been “mentally debilitating.”

Since 2023, the iNaturalist app has helped her collect solid data that locates and records roadstrike hot spots, along with live GPS pins, dates and times, and detailed information about the wildlife that has been killed.

Over 12–14 months, she has recorded 408 animals killed in the Dandenong Ranges — 97 per cent on Wellington Road — and the numbers are rising.

“This number is astounding and it’s a significant concern for the community. This will have consequential impacts on our local ecosystem and biodiversity,” Leanne said.

“We are losing our beautiful wildlife at a staggering rate, which could all be avoidable. With support from the community, I believe that we can work to change the road toll to zero.”

Leanne, who had a spinal injury that kept her sidelined for six months, says since returning to work and commuting three days a week, she’s again witnessing the road’s ongoing devastation.

“I am sick to death of having to do this day in and day out,” Leanne said. “I am sick to death of seeing the needless death and destruction that our wildlife faces, and the continuing development that is impacting their habitat. I am sick of putting my life (and the lives of other volunteers) on the line, in the hopes of trying to stop an issue that clearly nobody in authority cares about.

“Also, factoring in the mental trauma and guilt some motorists feel when they accidentally hit wildlife. I am sick of rescuing joeys that never make it because they never survive the impact

that is allowed for cars to travel at such speeds.

“Sadly, a human fatality will be enough for councils and MPs to call for change. However, the favour does not fall in the court of our wildlife, and I am here to be a voice on their behalf.

Additionally, tourists and visitors, who come to the Hills to enjoy its natural beauty and wildlife, continue to witness animals being harmed in this special area.

“My father in law from the USA came to visit us last year,” Leanne said. “As much as it filled his heart with joy when seeing an echidna, swamp wallabies and wombats on a walk at the Kallista forest, it had also reduced him to absolute tears when he saw the amount of dead wildlife sprawled on Wellington Road. It’s actually quite embarrassing.”

In an email responding to residents’ concerns, Cardinia Shire Council Cr David Nickell warns “as this road becomes busier and busier with the significant population growth to the south, the wildlife deaths, vehicle damage and human costs only grows year on year”.

“With a parallel significant increase in Sambar and Fallow deer movements through the Eastern and Southern Dandenong Ranges, the likelihood of human fatalities only grows, as well, due to the

size of the animals involved and the tendency of drivers to swerve suddenly at highway speeds, in order to try and avoid the collision,” the email stated.

“Add to this the high percentage (and growing) of visitor and tourist traffic with inexperienced country drivers that this road is conveying, who are not as conscious to look for wildlife and are less predictable in their reactions when they do suddenly encounter it at speed.”

For those elected to positions in this area, “public discussion of speed limit changes as a way to address the problem is politically very fraught”.

“Even though a modest change in limit will add no more than probably 50 seconds to a trip along the length of the road from Clematis to Kelletts road. The willingness of us to actually pursue a public discussion of this might be lacking –and I feel we all have to sign-up to such a message together, or it will not succeed,” Nickell stated in the email. Likewise the business case for significant engineering-based solutions is very unlikely to gain support when looking at other major issues facing Australia.”

DTP plans to change speed limits along this corridor to create a safer environment. By early 2026, DTP will deliver the following changes:

- Reduce the speed limit from 80km/h to 70km/h along Wellington Road between Stud Road (Rowville) and Kelletts Road (Lysterfield).

- Reduce the speed limit from 100km/h and 90km/h to 80km/h along Wellington Road between Lysterfield Road (Lysterfield) and Belgrave-Gembrook Road (Clematis).

In the meantime, DTP will continue to engage with state and local authorities such as the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) to identify opportunities for reducing wildlife collisions on our road network.

Cardinia Shire Council, general manager infrastructure and environment, Peter Benazic acknowledges with deep concern the recent reports of wildlife loss along Wellington Road.

“We commend and sincerely thank the dedicated wildlife volunteers and advocates who work tirelessly to protect injured animals and raise awareness of these incidents,” he said. “Council is committed to engaging with the community, experts, and other stakeholders to explore all viable options that can enhance safety for both wildlife and people.”

Yarra Ranges and Knox City Council declined to comment, advising that Wellington Road is managed by the DTP.

Leanne Sultana. (Stewart Chambers: 471259_01)

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)

Preschool’s sandpit opens

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Gembrook Preschool celebrated a milestone on Tuesday afternoon, 3 June, with the official opening of Stage One of its outdoor learning area redevelopment, a brand-new sandpit and play space, proudly funded through the preschool’s own fundraising efforts.

The occasion was made even more meaningful as the community came together to farewell a much-loved educator whose 26-year legacy has left a lasting mark on the centre.

The $25,000 project, which represents years of dedication by past and present committees, was opened before a crowd of families, staff, and community members who gathered to celebrate the achievement.

The new sandpit was not just a shiny new addition, but a symbol of what community-led vision and persistence can accomplish.

Former preschool president Julia Prout reflected on the years of work behind the project, praising the commitment of many.

“The beautiful new space is more than just a refreshed addition, it represents a long-term commitment. Lisa , Stephen and I each led committees that carried this project forward with care and pride,” Ms Prout said.

Ms Prout said the need for an inclusive, accessible sandpit was identified through the preschool’s Quality Improvement Plan, led by long-time educator, Kim Busacca.

“Kim recognised, through her experience, that a new sandpit accessible to all children and adults was essential. I

“t’s thanks to her leadership, and the hard work of our centre manager Melissa, that we’ve brought this vision to life,” Ms Prout said.

Though current president Stephen Cameron humbly described his role as “taking credit,” he acknowledged the legacy he inherited.

“When it got opened, a lot of people mes-

saged me and said, ‘Well, that looks fantastic.’ I didn’t do much. By the time I joined, the project was well into its advanced stages. It’s because of previous committees and leaders like Julia that we’re here today,” Mr Cameron said.

Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Cr Jack Kowarzik and Cr David Nickell also attended the ceremony.

During the formal proceedings, the current president read aloud a congratulatory message from local MP Daniela De Martino, celebrating the team’s outstanding achievement.

“The new sandpit and play space are a testament to your creativity and dedication, it’s

inspiring to see what can be accomplished through local initiative and teamwork,” Ms De Martino’s message read.

The day also carried special emotional weight as the community farewelled a beloved co-educator, Kim Barkley, who retired earlier this year after 26 years of service.

In a surprise tribute, a bench seat with a plaque bearing Ms Barkley’s name was unveiled - a permanent mark of gratitude in the space she helped shape.

Ms Barkley, affectionately known by many as “the constant,” spoke with warmth and humour about her journey, which began in April 1999.

“I started at Gembrook Preschool 26 years

ago, last century, I stayed and I stayed and I stayed,” she said. “I just loved it. The families, the children, the team, I never felt it was a challenge.”

Over the years, Ms Barkley witnessed vast changes - from staffing models and shared fruit platters to remote teaching during COVID. Yet her joy never wavered.

“I remember saying to my husband, I’d even do it for nothing getting up in the morning, delivering something to these little faces - it’s pretty special,” she said.

She shared fond memories of introducing Bush Kinder to the preschool, as well as more playful moments like chasing a runaway gingerbread man down the path with fellow educator Mrs B.

“Hopefully the children share some fond memories of our time together. I certainly have,” she said in closing.

The preschool isn’t done yet. Stage Two of the outdoor redevelopment - which will include an inclusive, undercover learning space, is now in the planning stages.

A funding application has been submitted to Cardinia Shire Council, with hopes of securing 50 per cent of the cost through a capital works grant.

Ms Prout summed up the heart of the project.

“To the untrained eye, the sandpit might look like just a fun spot for digging.

“But to educators and children, it’s where discovery, learning and friendships begin - one bucket of sand at a time,” she said.

The opening of the redeveloping of the sand pit was a celebration of legacy, love and local spirit - a day that will live long in the hearts of the Gembrook community.

The event wrapped up with some light refreshments, giving everyone a chance to chat and celebrate together.

The Patch Primary School unveils new learning spaces

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

The Patch Primary School celebrated a major milestone on Thursday, 5 June, with the official opening of its new school buildings and outdoor learning spaces.

The intimate ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino, around 30 guests including current and former school councillors, student leaders, school staff, and representatives from the building and architectural teams.

The school principal Jim Burnside described the journey to the opening day as “amazing” and “well worth it.”

“It’s been a year and a half in the making, but I believe it was four years ago when we first got told the funding was going through for this big build. It’s been really exciting for the whole school community,” Mr Burnside said.

“Each of the new spaces is huge, not just in size but in the way they feel, with a real nature vibe. We wanted the aesthetic to fit in with our surrounding gardens and Fern Gully. The classrooms and Arts Centre have these beautiful green high ceilings that give a canopy feel, which complements our strong focus on nature-based learning.”

Mr Burnside acknowledged the collaborative spirit that got the project through challenges.

“A lot of the school community was involved, school council, parents, students, staff, and everyone was so supportive through the tougher parts of the build, like when classrooms had to move temporarily into other spaces. The community understood that these short disruptions were going to be worth it,” he said.

He praised the contributions of government and contractors.

“Daniela has made multiple visits and has always put her hand up to support us. The VSBA and Deval were fantastic with meetings and guidance.

“But really, Amity builders and Craig Tan Architects impressed me most, they finished ahead of schedule, in January instead of February, letting us start the school year with a fresh, beautiful space - it’s given 2025 a really positive start,” Mr Burnside sid.

The school’s former principal Michelle Ray-

ner, who retired after 30 years at the school, shared insight into the multiple projects that make up the redevelopment.

“The projects have been multifaceted, a new one-two hub with four classrooms, because the old buildings had rot and leaks. Craig Tan Architects connected the new build to the landscape and school grounds, including new bleachers and a garden designed to fix stormwater issues,”

Ms Rayner said.

She said the involvement of student in the process has been very important.

“We involved students in designing the indigenous plantings for the garden.

“ They planted these last spring, and many plants have already grown above their guards. It’s been great seeing students as co-creators of these spaces, tying in science, geography, and horticulture with hands-on learning,” Ms Rayner said.

She also reflected on the transformation since construction began.

“Last year, this whole area was fenced off and full of mud and portaloos. It was tough for staff and students to navigate. But now, it’s fresh and clean with new markings and pathways, a real delight for everyone. The kids were inconvenienced for about a year, but it was all worth it,” she said.

Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino spoke warmly about the significance of the new spaces and the school’s community.

“I was really struck by the representation of First Nations culture here, it’s probably the strongest I’ve seen in any school.

“Thank you to everyone who contributed to making today happen,” Ms De Martino said.

Ms De Martino praised the many hands involved.

“I want to thank Jim Burnside, the student

leaders, as well as Deb, Ange and the builders. It takes a village to create something as wonderful as this,” she said.

She said the environment shapes behaviour and learning.

“The spaces are calm and beautiful. I know from teaching experience how much the space influences how students interact. This school is just phenomenal,” she said.

Ms De Martino also praised the community’s patience during the long project.

“I spoke to a builder who said people often can’t wait for construction to start, then can’t wait for it to finish.

“That was certainly true here, and the result is absolutely phenomenal,” she said.

“This school has fabulous teachers and a beautiful environment. I’m proud our government values education because it opens doors for kids’ futures.”

L-R: Ella, Kim (with Will on her lap), Matilda, and Heath attended the opening ceremony to farewell grandmother on her retirement. (482760: Shamsiya Hussainpoor)

The Patch Primary School showcasing its new upgrades to Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino. (Stewart Chambers: 482736)

L-R: Sam, Daniela De Martino MP, Ange Ellis, Michelle Rayner, Jim Burnside, Deb Herrman and Myah. (Stewart Chambers: 482736)

Local teacher seeks peer help to tackle statewide study

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.”

Freeze! Police! Belgrave cops do their bit to fight MND

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

The Belgrave Police Station front car park was transformed into a scene of laughter, ice-cold challenges, and the community’s generosity as the locals gathered for the Big Freeze 2025 event on Monday, 2 June.

From 2.30 pm to 3.30 pm, police officers, local personalities, and members of the public braved the chilly waters for a cause close to the heartraising funds and awareness for Motoneuron Disease (MND).

The Belgrave Police officers took a chilly plunge, with buckets of iced water poured over them in solidarity with those living with MND.

The ice challenge, which has become a highlight of fundraising campaigns across the country, was a chance for the police force to come together with the community and show their support for the cause.

Belgrave Police’s Jason Fox said the idea to participate in the Big Freeze came from a desire to not only raise funds but also to spark important conversations about MND.

“We saw this as a great cause and an opportunity to promote awareness in a way that the community could get behind,” Mr Fox said.

“It’s an event that brings people together, and the ice challenge itself was just the right kind of fun to engage people while still focusing on the seriousness of the cause.”

While the idea of having buckets of ice-cold water poured over officers might seem intense to some, Mr Fox assured that the team was more than happy to participate.

“Everyone on the team was excited to use their platform to raise awareness about MND,” he said.

“It was a great way for us to engage with the community. We were more than happy to do the challenge, it’s all for a good cause.”

In a twist on the traditional event format, local personalities also joined in on the icy action, helping amplify the message even further - with many of them having a significant online presence, their involvement ensured that the event reached far and wide across social media platforms, encouraging even more people to join in and contribute.

“The local personalities really made a difference. They have strong social media followings and helped us expand the reach of the event,” Mr Fox said.

“Their involvement meant that more people in the community could be part of the Big Freeze in a meaningful way.”

One of the most exciting parts of the event was the involvement of local figures like the Belgrave Wizard Baba Desi, who tipped a bucket of ice over Senior Sergeant Cassandra Forbe, the Officer in Charge of the station.

It’s these fun moments that gave the event a

personal touch and showcased the sense of community that was so evident throughout the afternoon.

“It was so exciting to see people from all around Victoria come to join us for the event,” Mr

Fox said.

“It’s amazing to see the community come together to raise awareness, and the fact that we raised over $500 in funds and sold another $500 in merchandise was a great result for the cause.”

Beyond the ice baths and community festivities, the event also served as an important educational opportunity.

Many attendees were unfamiliar with Motoneuron Disease, a debilitating condition that affects the nervous system and ultimately leads to the degeneration of muscle control.

For Mr Fox and the Belgrave Police Station, raising awareness through events like these is key to creating a better understanding of the disease.

“Events like these encourage people to look up Motoneuron Disease, to learn more about the impact it has on individuals and families, and to ultimately contribute towards funding research,” Mr Fox said.

As the event wrapped up, it was clear that the Big Freeze 2025 had been a resounding success. The community responded positively, coming together to raise funds, have fun, and, most importantly, make a difference.

“It was really heartwarming to see how many people got involved. I think we’ve raised not just funds but awareness and created a lasting impact on the community,” he said.

In total, the event raised $1000 for Motoneu-

ron Disease research, proving that even a little bit of ice can make a big splash when it’s for a worthy

Belgrave police team at the Ice Bucket Challenge event. (Supplied)

Belgrave police officers took the Big Freeze plunge to raise both funds and awareness for Motoneuron Disease (MND). (Supplied)

Belgrave’s famous Baba Desi was also present at the event. (Supplied)

Chilled to the core for a cause. (Supplied)

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).

Cans galore for food relief

By Tanya Steele

A local church has once again made its annual donation to a Hills-based food relief service as the cold of winter settles in.

Belgrave South Baptist Church has donated over 1369 cans to the Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service Inc. in Belgrave this week, the most the church has ever given.

Parishioner Peter Joseland helped with the delivery with his grandchildren this year and said DRERS were very excited and grateful for the amazing donation from the Church.

“Each May, our Church has a can drive with the aim of achieving 1000 cans for DRERS,” he said.

“This year we easily achieved our goal.”

CEO of DRERS, Tania Bevan, said the annual drive is immensely helpful.

“We provide the cans to people who need them – we are really grateful to have the church’s generous support,” she said.

Treasurer at DRERS, Kevin Gray said the drive this year was the most the church has ever raised for donations, at a time when many local families don’t have enough food.

“It’s a privilege to help,” he said.

Belgrave South Pastor Julian Holdsworth said the drive grows from strength to strength every year and this year he was blown away by the generosity shown.

“We are fortunate to have what others do not,” he said.

Reflecting on the vulnerable cohort doing it tough in the cold, Pastor Holdsworth said the drive in May also brings the church together as the parish collected a huge array of quality canned goods to pass along.

“We need to communicate that they are not forgotten,” he said.

DRERS is a non-profit volunteer organisation providing emergency relief in the Dandenong Ranges that assists people facing crisis

with illness, unemployment, family violence, homelessness, and other hardship since 1998. Coming in at a count of 1369 for 2025, the Belgrave South Baptist Church began doing it’s winter canned food drive for Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service many years ago.

“The target number of cans started to increase and continues to increase each year,” said Ms Bevan.

This year, DRERS has already given out $24,100 in food vouchers compared to this time last financial year, when they gave out $18,315 in food vouchers – highlighting

the greater need for food relief in the community. Annual support from organisations like the Belgrave South Baptist Church enables the organisation to continue assisting the vulnerable community struggling with the cost of living.

Parishioner Peter Joseland helped with the delivery with his grandchildren this year and said DRERS were very excited and grateful for the amazing donation from the Church. (Supplied).

Future of fundraising event in limbo as funding falls

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 to-

wards 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 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 those who really need it. And reduce the statistics.”

To find out more, visit shewontberightmate. net.au

A ‘tough year’ for tourism

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 con-

tribution 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.”

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

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

BELGRAVE LANTERN FESTIVAL

Lanterns to light up lives

This year, a Belgrave Traders fundraising drive brought home the bacon to get the beloved Lantern Parade over the line in 2025. With a 15-year-old event in jeopardy, there were some, truthfully many, that put a line - a statement in the sand, saying: ‘I don’t think so.’

It seems that when a grand thing, a big thing, a kind and joyous bearing thing is under threat, good humans will always stand up, to keep the goodness flowing. And because of this, the Belgrave Lantern Parade survives another year.

On Saturday 21 June from 5pm – 8.00pm, this historic event will again touchdown in Belgrave. With over 10,000 revellers, a giant congregation of locals, out-of-towners, day trippers and tourists will swell into the streets, alleyways, nooks and crannies of Belgrave, attracted to the celebration of art, light and community in the hills.

‘Activated’ spaces and creative precinct ‘pop-ups’ featuring art, music, circus arts, market stalls, workshops, DJs, bands, youth stages, solo artists, food trucks, fire-pits and more await.

This free event stands out as a beacon of goodwill, care and passion, which in this final hour found a sympathetic sponsor in OPTUS. Thankfully, Bendigo Bank, ATC traffic, Yarra Ranges Council, Bell Real Estate, Tacos and Tequila and the Belgrave Traders also steppedinandsteppeduptohelpfillthecup.

On the longest night of the year, we invite you to experience and re-experience Belgrave anew. June 22 is a homage to light, the imagination and to the community that illuminates, nourishes and informs how Belgrave and the hills communities live, work and play together.

Come enjoy the upcoming 2025 Belgrave Lantern Festival. (Supplied)

Lanterns will fill the streets of Belgrave. (Supplied)

Don’t get stung by this creative headgear. (Supplied)

Light up the longest night. (Supplied)

Your complete local destination

Nestled in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges at 76 Main Road, Monbulk Newsagency stands as a cornerstone of the local community, offering an impressive array of products and services that cater to every need.

Walking through the doors of this well-organised establishment, customers are immediately greeted by the Hills area’s largest selection of magazines. From specialist publications to popular titles, the comprehensive range ensures that readers of all interests can find their perfect match.Theneatlyarrangedshelvesshowcaseeverything from gardening and cooking to sports, fashion, and current affairs – truly a magazine lover’s paradise.

The newsagency’s gift section is equally impressive, featuring a diverse collection that makes finding the perfect present effortless. Whether shopping for a birthday, anniversary, or special occasion, there’s something to suit all tastes and budgets.

Complementing this exceptional gift range is a complete selection of gift cards and wrapping options for all occasions, making Monbulk Newsagency a one-stop destination for thoughtful gift-giving.

Beyond these highlights, the store continues to offer its established range of stationery, greeting cards, newspapers, books, art supplies, Pokemon cards, chocolates, refreshing drinks and lotto tickets.

The variety available transforms routine shopping into a convenient experience where multiple needs can be met in one visit.

The newsagency’s services extend beyond retail, with professional printing and laminating facilities available on-site. These practical offerings, along with photocopying, scanning, and faxing services, provide valuable support to local residents and businesses alike.

What truly sets Monbulk Newsagency apart, however, is the welcoming atmosphere created by owner Sika and his attentive staff. Their

friendly, helpful approach and genuine interest in customer satisfaction make every visit pleasant. The comfortable environment, enhanced

by relaxing background music and impeccable organisation, invites customers

Monbulk Newsagency is your local stop for all you need. (Stewart Chambers: 471204)

SHOP LOCAL MONBULK

Fancy a try in bowls team?

Hello Monbulk community, the Monbulk Bowling Club is preparing for another thrilling season of pennant bowling competition, and it’s time to come together and join the Monbulk Bowling Club.

Whether you’re a seasoned expert or a newcomer eager to learn, there’s a place for everyone on the Tuesday and Saturday teams.

Pennant bowling is not just about skill; it’s about the camaraderie and the excitement of playing alongside friends who share your passion for the game. Imagine those sunny afternoons on the green, strategising with your teammates, and celebrating those flawless shots together. It’s more than just bowling; it’s about creating memories and friendships that go beyond the scoreboard.

The season runs from late October to early March, with a three-week break over Christmas and New Year—plenty of time to learn the rules, get some practice in, and start the season with confidence.

Monbulk Bowling Club has teams across various divisions—from Tuesday Division 1 and Saturday Division 2 for experienced players, down to Division 5 for beginners. Free coaching is available at all levels, and the club offers loaner bowls for those just starting out.

Joining a pennant team is not just about the matches; it’s about being part of something larger—a community that supports one another both on and off the green. Whether you’re aiming for the top or simply enjoying the friendly competition, every member plays a vital role in our club’s vibrant spirit.

So, why hesitate, sign up at the Monbulk Bowling Club today and be part of the excitement. Let’s fill the roster with enthusiasm, laughter, and a shared love for the game. Together, the club will roll into the next season stronger than ever.

Pick up a membership form at Monbulk Bowling Club, located at 11 Moores Road, Monbulk and while you’re there, check out Jack’s Bistro - now open 7 days a week from 5.30pm.

Find a team for you at Monbulk Bowling Club. (Supplied)

Huge Sherbrooke Gallery exhibition launches in style

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 art-

ist’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’. Sarah it was really lovely to be part of the opening and meet some of the artists and locals who run the gallery.

“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.”

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,

Community’s volunteers gather to make a difference

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 pro-

vided 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. 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.”

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

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

Artist in residence Jeffrey Murphy won the Roberts Award for best nonlandscape for his Still Life painting of flowers titled ‘Mortum Florem’. (Supplied).

Public interest mushrooms

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 (Amanita phalloides) 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 cyclones,

WOORILLA WORDS

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 nar-

Take action against rubbish

With a few taps of your phone, it is now easier than ever to arrange someone to take your unwanted household items to the tip for you. Have ever thought of the risks?

In an increasingly common situation investigated by Cardinia Shire Council, a resident paid a man to take their old couch to the tip. This simple arrangement went sour for the resident when the man collected the couch from them, drove away and then dumped it on the side of a councilowned road.

Luckily, with the help of this resident and the developer of the estate, using footage of this man’s vehicle, the Council was able to hold this man responsible.

The man was given 14 days to clean up and legally dispose of the couch. He was also issued with a $1154 fine.

This is a great reminder when booking a business or person to take your items to the tip to:

• Note the vehicle’s number plate

• Ask for proof of disposal such as a photo or a

tip receipt.

• Be mindful that if the cost sounds too good to be true..it probably is!

If you see dumped rubbish on council-owned land including Council parks and reserves, nature strips and local roads, please report it to Cardinia Shire Council.

Reporting dumped rubbish is a vital way to help keep our shire cleaner, safer and healthier!

It helps the Council investigate these cases to educate and hold responsible for the minority of people doing the wrong thing.

For more info on dumped rubbish and how to report it, go to cardinia.vic.gov.au/dumpedrubbish

Each household in Cardinia Shire has access to two free hard waste collections per year. For more info and to book, go to cardinia.vic.gov.au/ hardwaste

To have your say on the future of Council’s waste services including dumped rubbish, go to cardinia.vic.gov.au/waste-consultation

ratives 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

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.

Olinda meeting for the community coming soon

Do you live, work or play in the Olinda and Mt Dandenong region and want to meet others and contribute to the future of our awesome area?

With Yarra Ranges Council funding and support from Olinda Community House, a few local people have engaged Hatrick and Co to kick-start a conversation.

A community gathering has been organised for Monday 23 June from 6.30pm at Olinda Community House at 79-81 Olinda-Monbulk Rd, Olinda No experience is needed, and everyone is welcome to contribute ideas and listen to others.

Cardinia Shire Council is calling on its constituents to report dumped rubbish. (Supplied)

ESVF levy disappointment

Whilethestategovernmenthasofferedatemporary reprieve to our 2400 primary producers by capping the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) levy for the coming financial year, we are still 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.

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.

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

Jim

Child From my From my desk

I must stress that Yarra Ranges Council fully supports the adequate funding of emergency service agencies, and we understand the need to ensure they have modern equipment for the dedicated

Powerful historical drama PASSION FOR PROSE

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.

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.

CARTOON

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 can find out more on the state government’s department 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.

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. ●

LUXURY OASIS: 27.5 ACRES OF PERFECTION

NESTLED in the prestigious and picturesque pocket of Macclesfield, this extraordinary property offers 27.5 acres of rolling pastures and natural bushland, creating the perfect blend of luxury, tranquility, and rural charm. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel the care and attention that has gone into crafting this exquisite, one-owner residence, designed with comfort, elegance, and functionality in mind.

The home itself is a masterpiece of design, boasting four oversized bedrooms that cater to every need. The master suite is a private haven featuring a spacious walk-in robe and a luxurious ensuite complete with a double vanity. The guest bedrooms are thoughtfully positioned at the opposite end of the home, each with built-in robes and serviced by a stunning family bathroom adorned with marble benchtops. Adding to the home’s versatility is a large office, ideal for those who work from home or easily adaptable as a fifth bedroom.

At the heart of the home lies a chef’s dream kitchen, offering an abundance of stone bench space and quality stainless steel appliances. The adjoining expansive family meals area ensures effortless entertaining and everyday living. For larger gatherings or moments of relaxation, the home provides multiple living areas, including a main living room with soaring high ceilings and a wall of windows that flood the space with natural light while showcasing the breathtaking garden and pasture views. An additional rumpus room with a vaulted ceiling adds an extra layer of grandeur, while a formal dining area completes the living experience with timeless sophistication. Throughout the home, premium features abound, from the 2.7-meter

HOME ESSENTIALS

ceilings and 2.4-meter-high doors to the ducted refrigerated heating and cooling system. A solid fuel fire in the family room adds warmth and charm, creating the perfect ambiance for cooler evenings.

Stepping outside, you’ll find an entertainer’s paradise. A spacious covered alfresco area leads up stunning Ironbark steps to a resortstyle, self-cleaning, heated, salt-chlorinated pool that overlooks rolling hills. This incredible outdoor space is complemented by a pool house featuring its own bathroom, complete with floor-to-ceiling tiles and an oversized shower, ensuring every gathering is unforgettable.

Address: 445 Macclesfield Road, MACCLESFIELD Description: 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 26 garage

Contact: Riley Nicholas 0488 501 218, BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

Beyond the main residence, the property offers unmatched infrastructure for those seeking space or versatility. A massive 12x14 meter shed provides the perfect environment for running a business from home or catering to car enthusiasts, with additional machinery and storage sheds enhancing the functionality of the property. Multiple paddocks, eight of which have water, are ideal for grazing livestock or horse enthusiasts, while the bushland areas and dam further enhance the property’s charm.

To the rear of the property there is an adjoining creek, perfect to sit by and relax.

Adding even more value, a separate twobedroom bungalow with its own driveway offers

Tworareleaseopportunities intheDandenongRanges.

Bring your vision tolifeinoneof Victoria’smostvisiteddestinations.

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

Expressionsofinterestarenowopenforthesetwo locations:

GrantsPicnicGroundCafé-EOIcloses18June2025

MountDandenongObservatory-EOIclose4July2025

complete independence with a lounge room, kitchen, bathroom, solid fuel fire, split system, and separate utilities.

Situated in an enviable location next to a renowned primary school and just minutes from the vibrant Emerald town centre, this property offers the ultimate in convenience. With easy access to supermarkets, schools, restaurants, cafes, shops, and public transport, this is an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the best of rural and modern living.

Rarely does a property of this calibre come to market. Don’t miss the chance to make this extraordinary luxury oasis your own. Contact us today to secure your dream lifestyle!

- $2,189,000 Inspect: By appointment

ScanQRformore information

GrantsPicnicGroundCafé

MountDandenongObservatory

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

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

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

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)

or foreign words. No capitalised

Seeing red over inequality

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

Trades & Services

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 ef-

forts 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 ini-

tiating 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

FERNY CREEK RECREATION RESERVE Noticeisgivenofa PUBLIC MEETING TobeheldatFernyCreekRecreationReserveon Monday 7th July, 2025 commencing 7.30pm

Thepurposeofthismeetingistonominatenoless thanthree(3)andnomorethannine(9)ontothe CommitteeofManagementforthenext3years. Thecurrentcommittee'stermwillexpireonthe 25thofJuly2025.Allpositionswillbedeclaredopen andnominationswillbeacceptedonthenight. Furtherinformation,nominationformsandnominee declarationformsmaybeobtainedbycontacting yourlocalDepartmentofEnergy,Environmentand ClimateActionofficeoratthemeeting.

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

Bold Burras bury Lions in shock weekend

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 1814 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.

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.

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.

Thrillers, with the lot...

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 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.

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

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

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!

• LOG BOOK SERVICE

• OIL CHANGES AND LUBRICATION SERVICE

• BRAKE SERVICE AND REPAIR

• BATTERY TESTING AND REPLACEMENT

• ENGINE DIAGNOSTICS AND REPAIR

• COOLING SYSTEM SERVICE AND REPAIR

• SUSPENSIONS SERVICE & REPAIR