Mail - Mt Evelyn Star Mail - 1st July 2025

Page 1


Crossing debacle

Just weeks after one of two crossing supervisors in Montrose were relocated, a near miss has left a parent worried for the safety of her own children and all who use the pedestrian crossing during school hours. With children at Montrose Primary School, Melissa White is a frequent user of the crossings on Leith Road.

“For the last five years I’ve been there, not once had I had any incidents and take a crossing supervisor away and now I’ve already encountered two potential incidents,” she said.

The recent upgrade of the Montrose intersection, from a roundabout to traffic lights, saw the removal of one crossing supervisor.

But Ms White argues that with added lanes and the newness of the intersection, it is more beneficial now than ever to have two supervisors.

Yarra Ranges Council stands by its decision, however, stating “that only one supervisor is now required at that location” and that “assignments are never permanent and are on a term-to-term basis” depending on requirements at each location.

The council engages Hoban Recruitment to contract many of its crossing supervisors, but a Hoban spokesperson said “decisions regarding crossing supervision levels are made by the relevant councils and road safety authorities.”

To read the full story, turn to page 3

Monty’s 102

Monty Maizels celebrated his 102nd birthday on Thursday 26 June. (Stewart Chambers: 486047)

Patient demand spikes

Demand for emergency care spiked on Monday 23 June, with both ambulance and hospital services under the pump.

The Herald Sun reported that 25 ambulance crews were impacted by staff shortages and at least another 110 crews were stuck ramped at hospitals at 7.15pm, while 3AW Drive Host Jacqui Felgate was told Eastern Health’s Box Hill and Maroondah hospitals were bed locked and patients were lying on the floor at the Angliss Hospital.

Eastern Health reviewed footage of the Angliss Hospital waiting room and emergency department for Monday 23 June and the two days prior and were unable to identify any patients lying on the floors, with seating available in the waiting area.

“Despite our system being under a great deal of pressure, our staff are working incredibly hard to provide the very best care for our community, however we have been experiencing an increased volume of higher acuity cases through our Emergency Department,” an Eastern Health spokesperson said.

“We again thank our community for their patience and understanding as we continue to work hard to support their health care needs,”

“We encourage our community to keep Emergency Departments for emergencies only, and for non-urgent or non-life-threatening conditions, please access alternative options such as your local GP or Urgent Care Clinics, if this is suitable.”

Both Ambulance Victoria and the Victorian Ambulance Union requested, in the wake of the surge, that people ensure they save Triple Zero for emergencies and consider alternative avenues to care, such as Virtual ED and Urgent Care Clinics.

An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said their highly skilled paramedics and first responders do a remarkable job providing the best care to their communities every day, especially as seasonal illness puts extra pressure on the health system.

“Ambulance Victoria and hospitals will always prioritise the most urgent cases first, but it is important to know that calling 000 won’t necessarily mean faster care if your condition is not lifethreatening,” they said.

“It is important that everyone does their part in saving ambulances for emergencies – if your

matter is not life-threatening, consider using an alternative care pathway such as the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department or Urgent Care Clinics.”

On average, about one in five calls to Triple Zero Victoria do not require an emergency ambulance response, which equates to over 500

calls every day.

Ambulance Victoria does use a dynamic model to determine where paramedics are deployed, with specialised teams like Advanced Life Support (ALS) and Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) units targeted where their services are most required.

Paramedics and local hospitals were strained by increased demand for emergency care on Monday 23 June. (File)

Crossing concerns continue in Montrose

The removal of one of the two crossing guards in Montrose is raising the ire of residents, with safety concerns at the new intersection leading to confusion around the decision.

The conversion of the Montrose intersection from the roundabout has added extra lanes on Leith Road near Montrose Primary School, but the traffic lights and median strip remain.

Melissa White had a frightening incident with a bus driver earlier this month and said it doesn’t make sense to take a crossing supervisor away.

“It has ultimately made a very big impact, removing one crossing supervisor from three lanes of traffic, they do have the driveway in and out for their car park that’s there as well which just adds to the confusion,” she said.

“There has historically been children hit around that area, though I think it was more so to do with the childcare center area and people looking down the road to pull over the childcare center and ultimately kids walking past, there is a collision that has happened,”

“This just adds to that, especially without that crossing supervisor up there, the specific altercation that happened when I was present there, we’re talking about a bus and there could be hire cars or trucks that wouldn’t see the little kids there.”

Earlier this month, Ms White was crossing in the afternoon with other adults and children and had crossed from the supervised side closest to the school. While crossing the other side of the road, the lights changed and a Ventura bus driver blared the horn from close distance.

Ms White contacted Ventura and was told they had reviewed CCTV footage, noted the incident and were dealing with the matter. Ventura were contacted for comment.

Ms White said the crossing is pretty daunting for anyone to walk across, let alone if kids were just crossing by themselves.

“It’s a very new intersection, it’s crazy at the best of times, let alone the peak time and people these days are just not patient, they just want to get moving and there’s going to be collateral damage along the way,” she said.

“They’re (crossing guards) there to remind the little ones walking across to watch where you’re going or to give them a ‘come on, keep walking over’ and if they’re not there, these kids are five or six years old that are crossing the street,”

“For the last five years I’ve been there, not once had I had any incidents and take a crossing supervisor away and now I’ve already encountered two potential incidents.”

Yarra Ranges Council are responsible for the allocation of crossing guards at school crossings around the region.

A Yarra Ranges Council spokesperson said many of Council’s School Crossing Supervisors are contracted through Hoban Recruitment.

IN BRIEF

Car runs off road in Yering

Another car accident occurred at the troublesome spot on Melba Highway, outside Yering Station Winery.

Victoria Police confirmed a car drove into a paddock fence at about 9.15am on Wednesday 25 June, and there were no injuries.

Reminder to slow down

Slow down when passing law enforcement, emergency and incident response vehicles

From 1 July, tow trucks, breakdown support and freeway or tollway incident response vehicles are included in this road rule, as well as emergency and enforcement vehicles.

This means you are legally required to slow down to 40km/h when passing emergency, incident response and roadside assistance vehicles that are stationary or moving slower than 10km/h and have flashing lights or an alarm sounding.

This road rule aims to keep us all safer on the roads.

Slow down if you see roadside assistance and emergency workers pulled over and help keep everyone safe.

Search to find stolen Cadillac

Alexandra detectives are seeking assistance to locate a stolen 1975 Cadillac Coup, red in colour displaying Victorian registration SSE154.

The vehicle was stolen from a business location on Whanregarwen Road in Whanregarwen sometime between the 10.40pm on 24 June and 5.20pm on 26 June.

The vehicle was stored inside a shed on the property.

Please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 with any information about the whereabouts of the stolen vehicle or burglary.

“Due to the recent upgraded road and pedestrian safety works at the Montrose intersection, it has meant that only one supervisor is now required at that location, rather than two,”

“Our supervisors do an excellent job at keeping children safe, but we can all do our bit by driving to conditions and being careful around crossings, particularly before and after school times. We ask everyone to be kind and courteous to our crossing supervisors, whether they’re driving or crossing with their children.”

A Change.org petition to reinstate Steve Price,

“Before each school term, Council provides Hoban with a list of school crossing sites that need a supervisor, these locations can change each term, so the assignments are never permanent and are on a term-to-term basis as per their Hoban contract,” they said.

the crossing supervisor who was reassigned, has garnered 584 signatures.

A Hoban Recruitment spokesperson said they provide crossings staff to council and works closely with many local councils.

“Councils ensure crossings are staffed in accordance with their assessments of site requirements, which includes matters such as traffic volume, road layout, pedestrian activity, and other factors,” they said.

“Decisions regarding crossing supervision levels are made by the relevant councils and road safety authorities.”

Steve Price, a former Montrose crossing guard. (File)
The revamped Montrose school crossing. (Callum Ludwig: 486969)
red Cadillac. (Victoria Police)

ESVF slammed

An urgent motion was tabled at the 24 June Yarra Ranges Council meeting to again express disappointment in the Emergency Services Volunteer Fund (ESVF) and to join with other councils across Victoria to protest it.

Yarra Ranges mayor, councillor Jim Child said that while we support the work of our volunteers when it comes to emergencies, what we do not support is the way this levy is being imposed.

“We shall join with other councils in writing to the Premier, treasurer, minister for emergency services, leader of the opposition, shadow treasurer and our local members of the State Government Legislative Assembly to advise and object to the significantly negative financial hardship this levy will impose on our com-

munity,” Cr Child said.

“While everyone will be impacted by this new levy, our farming and business sectors will be hit particularly hard.

“Along with other councils, we feel that this new levy has been rushed through quickly and the consequences of it on rural and regional communities have not been thought through.

“We also object to the collection of this levy being imposed on council. This is not a council role, and all monies collected go to the state government. If councils are to collect this levy then a realistic timeframe for its introduction must be negotiated with local government and full support and funding must be provided.

“There is also very little information out about this new levy – most of it has been raised

by councils and the community about their frustrations. We need the state government to undertake an extensive and far-reaching communications campaign so people understand what this levy is and what it’s for.

“Currently, this will sit as a line item on people’s rates without people understanding what this is all about and that is unfair to our community and to Council.

The ESVF replaces the Fire Services Levy already collected by councils on behalf of the state and is due to commence from 1 July 2025.

This fund increases the payments levied on all properties.

Councils are responsible for collecting this money on behalf of the state government via rates and transfers it directly to the government.

Satellite university campuses calls

A Yarra Ranges Council initiative to establish “satellite university campuses” using existing infrastructure was unanimously supported at the National General Assembly of Local Government (NGA) today.

Representing the Yarra Ranges Council at the Australian Local Government Association’s (ALGA) 31st NGA, council mayor Jim Child put forward YRC Motion 103 which called for the Federal Government to facilitate the development of satellite university campuses in the municipality.

The motion’s vision would leverage existing infrastructure to deliver online courses in the Yarra Ranges for young people going into higher education.

“Let’s use the facilities out in our municipality. It could be libraries, it could be our other centres that we’ve got where we could actually have our young people come and do their online studies,” Cr Child said.

More than 1200 mayors from across the nation attended the NGA to engage with federal politicians, build partnerships between councils and advocate for better funding.

The Your Library Ltd facilities were highlighted as potential learning hubs due to the libraries having high speed NBN.

Cr Child said it’d ensure there’s no “half hearted” education experiences where students drop out of calls due to bad internet.

The motion aimed to join the relevant bodies together to make it happen.

“What we’re requesting is that they have those conversations with the government, the university bodies and also us as councillors to bring the two bodies together to say, ‘this should happen.’ “

“It’s petty simple and it’d be a great outcome for our young people.”

When asked about an on campus institution in the Yarra Ranges, Cr Child said it’d be great to have more face-to-face facilities, but it would be dependent on other factors like population growth.

“A lot of that depends on a growing population - we’re not in a growth corridor, so that’s something to think about as well.”

“The main thing with this motion this afternoon is to actually fill that gap with this great technology that we’ve got at the moment and the infrastructure that’s there, and we should be able to do this easy,” Cr Child said.

YRC Motion 103 also argued satellite university campuses would help university campuses which are already under pressure from financial threats.

The motion also received support from a rural council in Queensland, who made an amendment to the motion to include students finishing their final years of high school in locations where years 10 to 12 aren’t offered.

“They’re constricted as well in these rural areas where the secondary schooling only goes to Year 10 and these hubs would actually provide for them locally with the technology,” Cr Child said.

ERG plan to share costs

Yarra Ranges Council has voted to note the Eastern Region Group of Councils (ERG) 20252029 Strategic Plan at the Tuesday 24 June council meeting.

The ERG consists of the five neighbouring councils of Knox, Manningham, Maroondah, Whitehorse and Yarra Ranges who regularly collaborate in partnership programs, project and advocacy.

In the five-year strategic plan, ERG representatives have identified five key priorities, focused on improving outcomes for people, places, the economy and the environment in the region, that they hope to achieve through 14 strategic initiatives in that time span.

Priority one is to build shared services and increase joint procurement initiatives, priority two is to enhance regional infrastructure initiatives, priority three is the transform movement in the East initiative, priority four is to support community safety initiatives and priority five is to develop local employment initiatives.

Some specific initiatives the ERG will look to implement are a shared services roadmap, an integrated vision for IT services, piloting shared services and joint procurements, a community infrastructure needs analysis, an open space connectivity strategy, a sustainable and integrated transport plan, a community safety regional roundtable, fostering cooperative economic development opportunities and developing pathways for artists in the east.

All other initiatives relate to the ongoing governance, operations and advocacy of the ERG.

Deputy Mayor and Chirnside War Councillor Richard Higgins said he is one of the two councillors that attends the ERG meetings monthly.

“Without a word of lie, it’s a really good thing for our council to be involved in, it’s Knox, Manningham, Maroondah, Whitehorse and Yarra Ranges and it’s a combined effort by these councils to meet and try and make some strategic ideas to actually save us many things, from money to doubling up on things etc, and get a big strong voice from our Eastern area,” he said.

“In the past, I have had my little bit of a doubt which direction it is but now after seeing this document I actually see we’ve got a really defined way forward and I’m happy to say that I’m really happy with what they’ve actually come up with,”

“I know most of you have read it and understand it but some of the things that we can partner on are just amazing, it’s just going to go from strength to strength if we get it right and for the small annual contribution that we do at $35,000 to have our executive officer Elizabeth Johnson down there put this all together and help us combine it all, it’s a really worthy thing to do.”

Cr Higgins used the example of the councils partnering up on debt collection by contracting debt collectors through one amalgamated contract in order to save unnecessary costs.

“This is another example of the collaborative approach we’re seeing in a range of areas that Council are involved with and as Cr Higgins has indicated, we do end up saving significant sums of money and for that reason, I support the recommendation,” Lyster Ward Councillor Peter McIlwain said.

The five councils account for a population of 746,067 (14 per cent of Greater Melbourne’s total population), 282,120 hectares of land (28 per cent of Greater Melbourne) and a gross domestic product of $49,478 million (about 11 per cent of Greater Melbourne’s total).

YRC motion 103 was unanimously supported by the NGA. (Unsplash)
Yarra Ranges Council has noted the 2025-2029 Eastern Region Group of Councils’ strategic plan, of which it is a member council. (File: 379657)

Feedback on draft needed

Yarra Ranges Council (YRC) is encouraging community members to give feedback for the Draft Paths and Trails Plan 2025-2035.

The Draft Paths and Trails Plan 2025-2035 provides guidance for the development of the network of paths and trails in Yarra Ranges with a particular focus on improving health, wellbeing and community connectivity.

The plan considers and builds on the existing Hike and Bike Strategy 2005.

The Draft Paths and Trails Plan 2025-2035 aims to identify levels of service for shared use and walking trails to define construction and maintenance standards, identify and map shared trails and YRC-owned or maintained walking trails across the shire, identify action areas relating to the future of the paths and trails network, and identify priority of works including upgrades to sections of existing trails, new/improved crossings and addressing missing link to paths and trails.

Cr Peter Mcilwain asked to built environment and infrastructure director Hjalmar Philipp about the community consultation process.

In response to the question, Mr Philipp said the final draft plan would be available on the Shaping Yarra Ranges webpage for a period of four weeks, commencing on Wednesday 25 June.

“That will have some information around the plan, what it is, and some frequently asked questions,” Mr Philipp said.

“We’dbeputtingoutmediareleasesonoursocial media channels. We’d have an email and mail out to key stakeholder groups such as sporting clubs, community groups and schools.

“We’d have promotional signage on some of the main trails linking to the shaping page as it is referred to via a QR code, and would also be getting in touch with those who submitted to the earlier consultation phase.”

Cr Jeff Marriott moved the motion as recommended in the council meeting report, and it was seconded by Cr Mcilwain.

Cr Marriott said the deliverables from this plan will be a positive legacy for decades to come.

“The options for residents and tourists alike are wide and varied, whether it be adrenaline-based mountain biking, paddling, canoes or

Deputy mayor Richard Higgins suggested extending the consultation period to six weeks so it goes past the school holidays, and Mr Philipp accepted it.

leisurable strolls along the rail trails, in addition to numerous skill levels for these activities,” the Streeton Ward councillor said.

“The Yarra Ranges area comprises a mix of environments that have and will continue to be an asset for a range of abilities.”

Cr Mcilwain said it’s a good example of strategic policymaking.

The motion was carried unanimously.

For more information or to have a say about the Draft Paths and Trails Plan 2025-2035, please visit the following website, shaping.yarraranges. vic.gov.au/draft-paths-and-trails-plan-2024-2034

“I think one of the critical things, the thing that I appreciate the most about the plan apart from its comprehensive nature, is the way in which it is integrated with other plans within the council, particularly the health and wellbeing strategy, the recreation strategies that we have,” the Lyster Ward councillor said.

Community engagement closes on 8 August. (File)

Outdoor space transformed

The unveiling of a redesigned outdoor space and communal hub at Anchor’s Youth Foyer in Lilydale will have a lifelong, positive impact on all involved.

With thanks to some of Opendoor’s work for the dole participants, the front yard of one of the Foyer units was transformed into a usable space, designed to encourage connection.

Fitted out with a new vegie garden, a bocce pitch, deck and barbecue, it created a welcoming environment for the young people in the Foyer program to gather, learn new skills in produce growing and harvesting, and allow them to have fun as a group.

The garage, typically used as an art studio, was also fitted with better storage, creating a much more user-friendly setup.

Youth Foyers provide young people who are or close to experiencing homelessness with an independent living situation, while helping them reengage with education or training over a twoyear program to set them on a path of self-determination.

“This place has been going for about 15 years. The Foyer is a service. It’s a response to youth homelessness, it’s a pathway out of homelessness for young people,” Anchor chief executive officer Heidi Tucker said.

“This will really produce some comfort for young people. The Foyer program is for young people to form community because they’ve often come in from being quite isolated.

“So this is about them spending time together in communal spaces, cooperating with each other, cooking with each other, doing activities with each other, because those are the life skills that we all need, cooperation and community. They’ll be able to do it in a much lovelier place.”

While Anchor was the beneficiary of the project, work for the dole coordinator Granville Jones said for the five participants who worked tirelessly on the project, it gave them purpose and new skills to take into their lives moving forward.

“Our participants put so much hard work in here. These guys always had a smile on their face. It was freezing cold outside and they would be digging and smiling. They really enjoyed this project,” he said.

“The great thing for me was, the project went for 12 weeks, and some of them had finished their time after eight weeks, and they said, ‘No, Granville, we want to stay till the end. We want to see this through to the end’. So that was a really big thing for us.”

For Michael, one of the participants, he said it was rewarding seeing the transformation of what the space looked like originally to what it is now but more so, knowing the positive impact it will have on the young residents.

“I didn’t even know they existed, Anchor. So when I was first told about it, I just had no idea they did this sort of work, or this sort of work was even around,” he said.

“So to know we’re working for people who have a purpose is really cool, that we can give back as well and hopefully help some young people is very rewarding.”

Building supervisor Andy said seeing a group of guys who didn’t have much experience in landscaping or building complete a project to the standard they have was incredible.

“The boys have been very good and engaged in the job which was fantastic. They’ve done very well for guys that haven’t had too much handson experience, they’ve really pulled together,” he said.

Granville said with the help of some local suppliers, including Allboard Bayswater, PSI Plumbing and Civil, Bowens Croydon and Sydney Tools Scoresby, the project came in under budget, allowing Opendoor to purchase the Foyer a professional coffee machine.

This was the first time Anchor partnered with

an employment agency and Heidi said the two organisations’ values align perfectly, to assist people who need some extra support.

“I’m absolutely delighted with this partnership between Anchor and Opendoor. I walked into Anchor a decade ago, and I think one of the first things I thought was, ‘well, isn’t employment a pathway out of homelessness?’” she said.

“So finally, here we are, 10 years later, with this wonderful partnership. I always say it takes a community in order to assist somebody on their pathway and I think our partnership with Opendoor is really the start of that.”

The stories of young people who have been forced to sleep in toilet blocks or parks because of homelessness, Heidi said are the hidden tales left out of what people picture as homelessness.

“You might not see young people so often as

what you might see older, more brazen people, but they’re there, and they are sometimes putting themselves highly at risk with people who are not, perhaps, very nice people. We don’t want that happening,” she said.

In handing over his final congratulations to both the Foyer residents and the Opendoor participants, Granville left them with some advice: be creatively brilliant, be compassionate and have drive.

“We can’t ensure your success; only you can do that. Only you will take the initiative. We can support you. All of us here can support you guys, but it’s what you do at the end that’s going to make all the difference,” he said.

“We, all these people, are your cheerleaders.

The ripple effect of kindness: This is Paul’s story

The remarkable story of one man’s journey to find support and, in turn, positively impact those around him was a point of celebration on Friday 27 June.

Four years ago, Paul Boughton, who has an intellectual disability, was sleeping on someone’s couch without access to the right services. He did, however, have a catch-phrase: “my life is going to get better and better”.

Through a friend and a suggestion, he met Elizabeth from Lilydale’s Choice Community Health, who helped set him up on NDIS, find housing and build a community around him.

Paul, once he’d been helped and supported, went on to show the same kindness to six of his friends.

“My parents taught me to be kind to others and think of others before yourself sometimes,” he said.

“And I looked at their situations and I thought, ‘well, Choice has helped me through so much, why can’t they get help?’”

One such person was Mark, a friend of Paul’s for 27 years.

Struggling with his mental health and suicidal ideation, Paul said Mark would call him often, seeking support and friendship, much of the time in tears.

With Mark living in Adelaide at the time, Paul decided to offer him a bed at his house in Lilydale, rent and bill-free until Mark could get back on his feet.

“He’s got a house, a better house now than what he’s ever had, and I’m grateful to see that he’s happy,” Paul said.

Mark and Paul are now walking distance from each other, with Paul saying he’s like a brother to him.

For Mark, he truly believes he wouldn’t be

here today without Paul, and, by extension, not having found a community at Choice.

Recognised for his dedication to helping others around him, Choice presented Paul with a certificate of appreciation.

“In recognition of your outstanding contribution to our community and the many lives you’ve helped shape through your advocacy, compassion and confidence. You remind us that change begins with one,” the certificate citation read.

“You’ve shown us the power of helping others through your bold voice and unwavering presence. You’ve brought hope and stood strong for those who needed someone to believe in them.

“Thank you for being a living example of strength, change and community. With deep gratitude, we honour the way you think about others above yourself.”

Elizabeth said when she first met Paul in 2021, his positivity was radiating.

“He was always so positive. That’s his temperament,” she said.

“Paul is a generous, kind and gentle man. It’s like a ripple effect. He’s so supportive, then he starts helping others, loving others. He’s just such a good friend. He’s humble.”

“It

From putting someone

even

for doing

Opendoor’s regional manger Ashlee, coordinator Granville Jones and Anchor CEO Heidi Tucker. (Mikayla van Loon: 487346)
The front garden of the one of the units has been completely transformed. (487346)
The original space was confined. (487346)
Through Choice and his newfound family, Paul was able to marry his wife Bella last year in April and this year travel to Queensland for his dream holiday.
was so good, the best holiday I’ve ever been on,” he said.
up in his house, to feeding them and
giving away his heater, Paul said his reason
so was “I just wanted to help”.
Paul Boughton and his friends Crystal, Bella and Mark. (487303)
Choice Community Health presented Paul Boughton with a certificate of appreciation. (Mikayla van Loon: 487303)
Mikayla van Loon
Anchor and Opendoor staff, with work for the dole participants Michael, Billy, Simon, Bernard and Aurien. (Supplied)

Bronze medal for Boer

Wandin Florist’s apprentice Elisabeth Boer was off to Brisbane earlier this month to show off her talents in the 2025 WorldSkills Australia National Championships.

Her efforts were not in vain either, returning back from the competition with a bronze medal.

Ms Boer said it was an awesome experience.

“It was a three-day competition, it had eight items to make over the three days, up against the best in Australia, so it was a pretty cool experience,” she said.

“The whole experience is a really good opportunity to be there and getting the medal was like the extra bonus, it was a great honour and a privilege, so I was a little bit surprised, but really thankful and excited,”

“I was very proud to win the medal, a lot of work went into it, all the prep, planning, lots of practising and I had my mentor Greg Milner from Marjorie Milner College, he was a great help as well.”

605 competitors who are trainees or apprentices from across the country participated in the event, displaying their abilities in over 60 different skills and trades.

Ms Boer said for the competition, some of the things she had to make were a presentation bouquet, a foyer arrangement, a decorative arrangement, a heart-shaped wreath and body flowers.

“My favourite one was the body flowers as it can be way more creative, and it’s just something a bit different than what I’d normally do, it was a good creative outlet, so I really enjoyed that one,” she said.

“I felt pretty good about them all except the last item which was the foyer arrangement, it was the biggest one so that took a lot of mental energy but I got it done,”

“They gave us time limits for each one, each one was different, they ranged from like an hour and a half to two hours for each item

and they did give enough (time), it never feels quite enough, but surprisingly I wasn’t very nervous, I felt quite prepared for the competition, I thought I would have been more nervous, but I was calm and just ready to go.”

The gold medal in the floristry category went to Charlotte Follett from Geelong, silver went to Ciara O’Reilly from Sydney and Holly Oates from Northern Rivers received a medallion for excellence.

Owner of the Wandin Florist Amy Collins said they are very proud of Ms Boer and her ability is without a doubt fantastic t have at Wandin Florist.

“Very proud of the effort that she made and everything towards it, it’s a real testament I think to her ability,” she said.

“Most of the flowers are growing in Monbulk arent’ they and Silvan and some in Wandin as well, this is the area that they grow for pretty much the whole of Australia, we’re all about flowers in Wandin,”

“Elisabeth is a good girl and she really enjoys what she does as well, which is very important.”

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Wandin Florist’s Elisabeth Boer with her bronze medal from the 2025 WorldSkills Australia National Championships. (Stewart Chambers: 486504)

Where to pick up your FREE Star Mail

CHIRNSIDE PARK Meadowgate Milk Bar3 Meadowgate Drive

CHIRNSIDE PARK Coles Supermarket239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Woolworths Supermarket239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Caltex Safeway239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK EG Fuelco Service Station Chirnside Park Shopping

CHIRNSIDE PARK 7 - Eleven 242 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Chirnside Park Country Club 68 Kingswood Drive

CROYDON NORTH Croydon Hills Milk Bar158 Nangathan Way

CROYDON NORTH Eastfield Milk Bar11 The Mall

KILSYTH Woolworths SupermarketChuringa SC, Russo Place

KILSYTH Woolworths SupermarketCanterbury Road Kilsyth

KILSYTH Kilsyth Laundrette Unit 7/87 Colchester Road

LILYDALE Yarra Valley Soul Cafe 8 William Street East

LILYDALE Aaron Violi MP Office 110 Main Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Marketplace SC33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Village SC51-59 Anderson Street

LILYDALE Woolworths SupermarketMarketplace, 33 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Coles Supermarket Lilydale VillageCastella Street & Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Lilydale Community Centre7 Hardy Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Lakeside Conference and Events Centre1 Jarlo Drive

LILYDALE United Petrol Service Station473 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Caltex Lilydale346 Main Street

LILYDALE Caltex Woolworths31 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE BP Service Station87 Warburton Highway

LILYDALE Shell Service Station469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE 7 - Eleven LilydaleCnr Maroondah Highway & Cave Hill Road

LILYDALE Coles Express469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Hutch & Co Cafe251 Main Street

LILYDALE Round Bird Can't Fly170 Main Street

LILYDALE The Lilydale General110 Beresford Road

LILYDALE Yarra Valley Smokery96 Main Street

LILYDALE Bee Seen Cafe178 Main Street

LILYDALE Blue Turtle Cafe222 Main Street

LILYDALE Gracious GraceCastella Street

LILYDALE Melba Coffee House33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Munchies7/75 Cave Hill Road

LILYDALE Point of View CafeLilydale Lakeside - Jarlo Drive

LILYDALE Freda's Cafe2 Clarke Street

LILYDALE Barry Plant Real Estate88 Main Street

LILYDALE Ray White Real Estate164 Main Street

LILYDALE Hello Harry245 Main Street

LILYDALE Noel Jones Real Estate 281 Main Street

LILYDALE Professionals Real Estate111-113 Main Street

LILYDALE Grubs Up1 Industrial Park Drive

LILYDALE Mc Donalds RestaurantMaroondah Highway

LILYDALE Olinda Creek HotelMaroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Crown HotelMaroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Yarra Ranges Council 61 - 65 Anderson Street

MONTROSE Montrose Authorised Newsagency 912 Mt Dandenong Road

MONTROSE IGA Supermarket Mt Dandenong Road

MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road

MOUNT EVELYN Fast Fuel 1 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN IGA Supermarket 38- 40 York Road

MOUNT EVELYN Post Office 12 Station Street

MOUNT EVELYN Authorised Newsagency 1A Wray Crescent

MOUNT EVELYN Red Robyn Milk Bar 35 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN Library 50 Wray Cresent

MOUNT EVELYN Milkbar 28 Birmingham Road

MOUNT EVELYN Bendigo Bank 2/35-39 Wray Cres

MONTROSE IGA Supermarket916 Mt Dandenong Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Supermarket15 Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Bendigo BankUnit 19/66 - 74 Brice Ave

MOOROOLBARK Corner Milk Bar38 Bellara Dive

MOOROOLBARK Fang & Yaoxin Mini Mart108 Hayrick Lane

MOOROOLBARK BP Mooroolbark103 Cardigan Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Express2 Cambridge Road

MOOROOLBARK Professionals Real EstateBrice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK L J HookerBrice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Fletchers Real Estate 1/14 Manchester Road

MOOROOLBARK Mc Donalds RestaurantManchester Road

MOOROOLBARK 7-Eleven Manchester Road

MOUNT EVELYN York on Lilydale138 York Road

WANDIN NORTH Wandin Newsagency Shop 2 /18 Union Road

ACCC backs the press

Country Press Australia has welcomed the release of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s final report from its Digital Platform Services Inquiry, describing it as a landmark moment that recognises the systemic challenges facing regional and local news publishers in the digital age.

CPA President Andrew Schreyer said the report confirmed what independent publishers had known for years, that global tech giants are using their market dominance to control how journalism is accessed, valued and monetised in Australia, to the detriment of local news.

“This report confirms what our members have experienced for a long time,” Mr Schreyer said.

“Local and regional publishers continue to face deeply entrenched power imbalances in their dealings with the major digital platforms. This has real consequences for the sustainability of journalism in our communities.”

Mr Schreyer said the federal government must now move quickly to implement the News Bargaining Incentive legislation, especially in light of Meta’s refusal to renew deals with publishers since announcing their withdrawal from news arrangements last year.

“Meta has walked away from compensating publishers entirely, and others like TikTok have never come to the table at all,” he said.

“The incentive legislation is essential to ensure that all major platforms are required to contribute to the journalism they benefit from, either by negotiating in good faith or by making a fair payment.”

He also emphasised that public funding support for journalism, including through the News Media Assistance Program (NewsMAP), must be directed to publishers who are actively producing local public interest journalism.

“Funding should go to the journalists and newsrooms who are on the ground covering councils, courts, community stories and local sport,” Mr Schreyer said.

“These are the voices that hold local institutions to account and help communities stay connected. They need direct and meaningful support.”

The ACCC report draws attention to a range

of broader issues threatening journalism, including a lack of dispute resolution options for small publishers, harmful practices by dominant platforms, and the growing use of AI tools that can devalue or displace credible news.

“We support stronger platform obligations to prevent scams and fake reviews, and we also support enforceable transparency requirements that ensure fair treatment of news content,” Mr Schreyer said.

“We need to see the major platforms treated as gatekeepers with clear responsibilities when it comes to how news is ranked, labelled and monetised.

“We urge the government to consider the rise of AI and its use of publishers’ content and the need for publishers to be fairly compensated for this as part of the News Bargaining Incentive framework.”

He said the rise of AI-generated content and the continued spread of misinformation on social media made it more important than ever for Australians to understand what credible journalism looks like.

“Improving digital literacy must be a national priority,” Mr Schreyer said.

“Australians need the tools to distinguish fact-based journalism from misinformation, especially in an environment where AI and algorithms are shaping so much of what people see.”

Country Press Australia represents almost 240 independently owned newspapers that serve regional, rural and suburban communities across the country. These publishers are embedded in the communities they serve and continue to provide vital public interest journalism in an increasingly disrupted media environment.

Mr Schreyer said the ACCC report provided a clear path forward and urged the government to act.

“We strongly support the ACCC’s push for a new digital competition regime and external dispute resolution so our members can operate on a level playing field,” he said.

“Our regional, rural and local news outlets are the backbone of Australia’s democracy and they must be supported through practical reforms and fairer digital market conditions.”

Andrew Schreyer is the President of Country Press Australia, and publisher of the Warragul and Drouin Gazette.

Winter appeal launched

As winter bites in the hills, Bell Real Estate is stepping up to help those doing it tough, teaming up with Foothills Community Care to collect warm essentials for people facing hardship.

From now until the end of winter, the agency is asking locals to donate new socks, underwear, thermals, gloves, or scarves for men, women, and children in need.

Chloe Stokes, who leads sponsorship and marketing at Bell Real Estate’s Olinda office, said from a company perspective, the honest truth is they’re a family-owned and family-run business.

“It’s freezing up here, and we know how hard it can be for people who are already struggling,” Ms Stokes said.

“There are people in our community, right here in the hills, who are quietly doing it tough.”

Bell Real Estate’s offices in Olinda, Belgrave and Montrose have been turned into drop-off points, with hampers already filling up and signs in the windows to remind passersby they can make a difference.

Donation drop-off locations:

Olinda: 11 Olinda-Monbulk Road

Belgrave: Unit 1/1642 Burwood Hwy

Montrose: 896 Mt Dandenong Road

Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5.30pm

Ms Stokes said the decision to support the appeal was both professional and deeply personal.

“We’re a family-run business, and we see ourselves as part of the fabric of this community. We’re not just here to sell houses - we’re here to help where we can,” she said.

“Sometimes that means putting up a community noticeboard, and sometimes it means collecting socks.”

She spoke about what they see from the inside of the housing market, people caught in the middle of a worsening rental crisis, families escaping domestic violence, and locals left with nothing after unexpected emergencies like house fires.

“There’s this idea that homelessness only looks a certain way - but it doesn’t. It can be a mum, a teenager, someone who lost their job or couldn’t find a rental,” she said.

“It’s heartbreaking when you see posts from people who’ve lost everything and are just asking for a jumper. That’s why something as small as a new pair of socks can go a long way.”

Bell Real Estate has supported Foothills Care in the past, but this is the first winter appeal Ms Stokes has helped coordinate and she’s thrown herself into it, rallying the agency’s 10 agents to take part in social media videos and promoting the cause in shopfronts.

“We’re not the heroes here - Foothills is doing the heavy lifting. We’re just using the tools we have, like marketing and local reach, to help them get the word out.”

Ms Stokes said she hoped this kind of community partnership would grow in the years to come.

“If you’re feeling disconnected or helpless,

this is something simple you can do that really matters,” she said.

“Even beyond donating, there are always ways to help - Foothills is always looking for volunteers to help with their kitchen program.”

“It might seem like a small gesture - but for someone going through a hard

Shop 16’s mega food relief market is back

Every Wednesday, Mooroolbark’s The Terrace is brought to life as volunteers host a food relief market.

The Shop 16 Food Relief initiative, supported by Outer East Foodshare, caters to over 100 families a week by providing fresh fruit and vegetables, milk, eggs, pantry items and bread. Coming up on Wednesday 9 July The Terrace will be transformed into a mega market, with one of the regular suppliers donating “two or three tonne of food” for this special event.

Food relief coordinator Jenny Knoop said it would be twice the size of the normal weekly market, allowing many more people to leave with a grocery shop for free.

“All the food was headed for landfill, so it’s a war on waste as well,” she said.

“It has to go by the end of the day, or it goes to different pantries. All our off cuts and everything go to the garden, or people’s animals and that sort of thing. So nothing’s wasted.”

The mega market will be held at the same time as the regular market, beginning at 12pm. It’s wheelchair accessible, with parking behind the shopping centre. Come prepared with shopping bags.

Everyone is welcome, with volunteers in Shop 16 also providing tea and coffee for anyone who would like to stay for conversation and connec-

tion.

“We have the same people who come each week on a Wednesday, but there are always new ones. So some don’t come, some stay a little while. Some come in, have a drink and go again. It’s an ever-changing group,” volunteer Rochelle said.

The Shop 16 pantry is also stocked daily with

different items, with bread out the front most days and sometimes fresh fruit or vegetables, depending on what is donated.

“We also have wonderful businesses that donate what they can - like our friends at Domino’s pizza Croydon. They supply us with yummy pizzas on a fortnightly basis which we love,” Jenny said.

This means that people who come to get groceries on a Wednesday also get to enjoy some pizza before they leave.

Operating under the Shop 16 Community Connect banner, which is open weekdays from 10am to 3pm, the not-for-profit, volunteer-run group has shelves of books and DVDs available for people to take, frozen meals to hand out on request, activities and just a friendly face each day.

“There is always someone there to make a person feel welcome and make them a cuppa and have a chat,” Jenny said.

With the aim of “community helping community“, Jenny said any form of assistance would be welcomed.

“You can donate non-perishables to our community pantry, or if you have fresh food - end of line or excess stock or if you are a generous business for some financial help.

“We always need new volunteers for supermarket pick ups, market help, tea and coffee making or Shop 16 assistance. Please pop in for a chat.”

that their community sees them and cares,” she said.

If you’d like to contribute, donations can be dropped off at the Bell Real Estate offices listed above throughout winter. Every item counts.

And while she hasn’t yet met the people who’ll be receiving the donations, Ms Stokes is certain of one thing.
time, it’s a sign
L-R: Bryce McLean, Jo Hirst, Angela Griffin and Chloe Stokes. (486890: Stewart Chambers)
L-R: Angela Griffin, Chloe Stokes, Jo Hirst and Bryce McLean. (486890: Stewart Chambers)
The Terrace’s rear car park can be located on Charles Street. Shop 16 is located inside the shopping centre at 66-74 Brice Avenue Mooroolbark.
There’s always a variety of pantry essentials. (486918)
The fresh produce comes in abundance. (Mikayla van Loon: 486918)

All female dental clinic

Valley Dental Family Clinic is an all female clinic based in Lilydale.

The clinic is owned by Dr Rupali Prabhu and Dr Sonali Prabhu.

Rupali graduated from dental school in 1999. She has worked in private and public community clinics both in, and around Melbourne. She has also lived out of the city, spending a period of time in Benalla in rural Victoria.

Rupali is passionate about providing high quality dental care and takes pleasure in sharing a story and a laugh with her patients. She enjoys all aspects of dentistry and always strives to provide dental treatment in a relaxing and comfortable environment.

Rupali believes her practice and approach to dentistry creates an experience that will change your notion of what a trip to the dentist is. Outside of work she loves to spend time with family and her young children, sharing her passion for reading and traveling with them at every opportunity.

Sonali graduated from dental school in 2003. She has worked as a dentist in both community and private practices. She has also worked various roles within the dental industry. Sonali believes that your mouth is the gateway to better wellbeing, and that a great healthy smile will leave a great lasting impression on people.

Sonali loves interacting with patients and ensuring they are comfortable and at-ease. She enjoys all aspects of dentistry. She particularly loves working with older clients. In her spare time, she loves cooking delicious Indian dishes and enjoying time with her family and friends.

The third dentist, , joined the Valley Dental team 2 years ago and has been an integral part of the team ever since. With over 10 years of experience, Merhaz believes that world class dentistry should be delivered to each and every patient. Mehraz has a keen interest in aesthetic dentistry and is studying a certificate of Cosmetic Dentistry to introduce lip and cheek fillers to the clinic for our Valley Dental

patients.

Rupali said being an all female team patients were treated with care and compassion.

“Staff are very approachable and compassionate making everyone feel at ease coming to

the dentist,“ she said. The clinic offers a wide range of dental services including general dentistry, fillings, crowns, bridges and veneers. Take advantage of current specials including

Specialist Care Close to Home

Come see the team at Valley Dental. (Stewart Chambers)
Only the best care at Valley Dental. (Stewart Chambers)

Students on the job

Yarra Ranges Council, in partnership with the Outer Eastern Local Learning and Employment Network (OELLEN), wrapped up a pilot work experience program for secondary school students across the region on Friday, 27 June.

Ten students from government schools, including Yarra Hills Secondary College, Mooroolbark College, Upwey High School, Monbulk College, Upper Yarra Secondary College, and Lilydale Heights College, took part in the five-day program, which gave them hands-on insight into the wide range of careers available within local government.

Throughout the week, students worked alongside experienced staff across multiple council departments, from planning and urban design to parks, trees, and trails - gaining a practical understanding of how local government serves its community.

“Yarra Ranges Council is passionate about supporting the next generation coming into the workforce. Work Experience gives students the chance to see firsthand the wide range of work that happens behind the scenes in local government,” Yarra Ranges Council, chief executive officer, Tammi Rose said.

“We’re delighted to welcome them to Council and help them build skills, confidence, and connections for the future.”

The program culminated in a celebration and presentation day on Friday 27 June, where students spoke to council staff and their peers about what they had learned.

OELLEN’s community engagement advisor, Chloe Williams said the program aligned closely with their mission.

“This work experience program was really important to us. It’s at the core of what we do,

and we worked with schools right across the region to make sure students were aware of this opportunity and that the right young people could take part,” she said.

“At the start, the students were nervous and hesitant to ask questions. But by the final day, they were chatting to each other and council staff with confidence. They already seemed like a team. It was really lovely to see how beautifully they were welcomed into council.”

Yarra Ranges Council’s economic development officer, Nicola Woods said the program was designed to highlight the range of roles within council.

“We are the largest employer in the Yarra Ranges, so we have a bit of an obligation to our young people to offer opportunities like this and show them what’s possible,” Ms Woods said.

“We partnered with OELLEN because they’re the experts in this space. They have the school connections, and it’s been a great way to work with local organisations while supporting young people,” she said.

Ms Woods said she hoped students walked away with “a meaningful experience and some great examples of what a good employer looks like.”

“These young people will eventually become our future employees and employers. There’s a real opportunity for them to pay that forward in future,” she said.

During their presentations, students shared what they’d taken away from the experience.

“ThecouncilinterestedmebecauseIwanted to see how the government deals with community and how they are able to connect and represent the community and fix issues. It’s a future pathway because there are so many jobs - waste collection, community management, building

50th birthday celebrations

The Wandin Senior Citizens Club’s 50th birthday celebration was a “roaring success”.

The birthday celebration took place at the Wandin District Senior Citizens Centre in Wandin North from 9.30am to 3.30pm and saw the club go all out on food and celebrations.

Wandin Senior Citizens Club president Clare Gothard said everyone got involved and had fun at the event.

“It was a roaring success. We had the Flash Back Duo singing and everyone got involved and sang a tune or two,” Ms Gothard said.

The club cooks, Charmaine and Julie, cooked up a storm with pork, beef and chicken on the

menu, plus desserts and the birthday cake.

BMX tracks. It’s such a massive community and it’s incredible,” Upper Yarra Secondary College student, Jackson Edsel Watt said.

Aelwyn Cook, from Mount Evelyn Christian School, said, the thing she liked best was the sense of community in the work culture.

“It really helps the team work better and contribute more to the wider community,” she said.

Beau Dean Wade, from Yarra Hills Secondary College said, “It’s important for young people to understand what council is actually responsible for, so they can get involved and help make change. Also, you learn that people who work in council are just people - not some big soulless organisation.”

Luca, from Upwey High School, said he’d choose Sport and recreation if he could work in any department, because of his interest in sports and local facilities.

Students also reflected on how the experience helped them build real-world skills.

“Getting up early, getting into a routine, working with others - it gives us a taste of what it’s like to be in the workforce,” Jackson said.

“It helps you become more mature, responsible, respectful. And it makes you realise the workplace is made up of real people who care,” Beau said.

“This experience bridges school and council. You’re still learning, but it’s not out of a textbook. You’re responsible for yourself. It’s a big shift from school,” Aelwyn said.

With strong feedback from both students and staff, the program is being considered for future years.

Both Yarra Ranges Council and OELLEN hope this pilot marks the beginning of an ongoing initiative to support young people as they explore local career pathways and connect with their community.

The cooks then cut the cake to mark the 50 year anniversary.

Having only stepped into the president role recently, Ms Gothard planned to lift the club up and make it more social and exciting which will inject new life into the club established in 1975.

The event wrapped up with everyone working together.

“As always the whole club got together and cleaned up,” she said.

Rare chance to win trip

One lucky reader has the chance to win the ultimate travel experience – an eightday Viking “Rhine Getaway” river cruise for two, including return flights, valued at $16,190 per couple.

Departing Basel, Switzerland on 22 November 2026, the journey winds along the romantic Rhine River through France, Germany and the Netherlands, revealing centuries of culture, history, and breathtaking scenery. From charming villages to grand cathedrals, the trip includes six guided tours and visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, providing unforgettable insights into European heritage.

Travellers will enjoy a Category F Stateroom, complete with elegant furnishings and river views. All onboard meals are included, with beer and wine served with lunch and dinner, and guests can enjoy Viking’s renowned Culture Curriculum – a rich program of onboard lectures, tastings and performances.

With Wi-Fi, port charges and gratuities all taken care of, this truly is a seamless, luxury experience. Entries close noon, Thursday 14 August 2025, so don’t miss your chance to set sail on this once-in-alifetime journey.

Look for the full page competition advert in this edition for all the details, or visit: starnewsgroup.secondstreetapp.com/Win-a-European-river-voyage-with-Viking/

Students from across the Yarra Ranges marked the end of a week-long work experience pilot with a presentation on Friday, 27 June. (487065: Shamsiya Hussainpoor)
Wandin Senior Citizens Club members celebrate the club’s 50th birthday. (Supplied)
A Viking Longship passes the Gymir Bridge Towers in Cologne.

Our marvellous Monty

From delivering an iconic line in an Australian classic to working with some of Australia’s greatest radio talent, Monty Maizels has had a life and career like no other.

Celebrating his 102nd birthday on Thursday 26 June surrounded by family in Kilsyth, Monty’s mind and cheeky smile remain as sharp as a tack.

Admitting that he’s “never not been an actor”, fooling everyone at birth, Monty’s earliest memory of acting was at the age of eight when he played Jack in Jack and the Beanstalk for a local production in London.

Fast forward to 1997 and Monty would be cast as another character named Jack but this time in one of Australia’s most notable films: The Castle.

As the neighbour of the Kerrigans, Monty’s character Jack gets to deliver the line “yeah, f*** ‘em’ - a line that would become well-known among film buffs.

“It’s the first time I ever heard him swear,” Monty’s son Andrew said.

One day on the set of The Castle, in between scenes, Monty was left in the company of famed actor and director Charles ‘Bud’ Tingwell, known for roles in Breaker Morant and Ned Kelly, getting to chat and natter about everything and nothing.

While acting was a hobby for Monty, his career in radio began decades before.

Born in 1923 “upstairs at my grandmother’s hat shop” in Shoreditch, London, Monty spent the first 15 years of his life growing up in England.

But in 1939, his father, who had heard rumblings of Hitler’s movements in Europe through business contacts, decided to emigrate the family overseas.

“The original plan was to go to Canada, for some reason, but we had my father’s aunt’s cousin or something like that in Brisbane and they sponsored us as 10-pound Poms,” Monty said.

“Imagine getting a cruise, a six-week cruise from London to Brisbane, stopping in all these exotic ports for 11 pounds.”

With an 18-month-old sister and twin brothers who were three years younger than Monty, the family boarded the ship, landing in Melbourne for a day on Monty’s 16th birthday.

“It was a complete change of things. I mean, half a world away, and it was a changing economic world,” he said.

“I left as a school boy and arrived as someone ready for the workforce.”

Sponsored by David and Sid Moses, furrier importers and sellers, it was just by chance that Sid also had connections with 4BC, who at the time were looking for radio assistants.

“My mother spoke to Sid and he said he couldn’t do anything about influencing the outcome, but he would get me an early interview with 4BC and I got the job,” Monty said.

“I was half a world away, and within six months, I was in radio myself as a production as-

sistant, which means playing the music for all the programs.”

From there, his career developed exponentially, seeing him move into writing programs, curating the voiceovers and advertising.

“I wrote a 30-minute program, the cast of which was every top person in radio commercials, so everyone who was a top voiceover. This was in 1958,” Monty said.

“I’d come into work on the tram and I’d be scribbling something because I knew a certain person would be coming into record one of the jobs. I knew what talent was about and I’d write something which was appropriate to them.”

Monty’s career in radio saw him work with the biggest names in broadcasting, one such person was Monty’s good friend Pete Smith, known for his role as announcer on Sale of the Century.

Other times, he’d bring in his children to do voiceovers for a bit of pocket money.

“It was always exciting and fun,” Monty said.

Had Monty and his family not moved to Aus-

Oakridge’s pinot noir turns heads

Oakridge Wines competed against other Victorian wineries for the prestigious Premier’s Trophy but fell short of the award.

The Victorian Parliament House was crowded with representatives of 12 wineries invited to represent each region as regional wine show winners.

Oakridge Wines was one of them as it won the James Halliday Champion Wine of Show, the highest award at the 2024 Yarra Valley Wine Show, with its 2023 Hazeldene Pinot Noir.

Oakridge Wines senior winemaker Tim Dexter said it’s always an honour to represent the Yarra Valley.

“We think the Yarra Valley is producing some of the best wines in the country. So we’re thrilled to represent the Valley in that forum,” he said.

Mr Dexter shared the secret of Oakridge’s Hazeldene Pinot Noir, pointing out the location of the vineyard.

“That’s from a very special sub-region of the Yarra Valley in Gladysdale, and that’s a vineyard that we own and farm ourselves, and it’s a really special part of Gladysdale, where you’ve got lovely red soils and the temperate rainforest, and it creates these beautifully ethereal and red fruited wines that the public and wine show judges love,” the senior winemaker said.

“It’s a really special location for a pinot vineyard, and it’s farmed really diligently and with re-

spect to the site by our vineyard team led by Steve Faulkner. And that delivers us grapes in perfect condition that really tell the story of the site and the season. It’s the right grape grown in the right place that does all the work.

“It’s a very elegant and pretty wine, lots of lifted floral aromas, red fruits, and then, on the palate, it’s all about bright red and dark blue fruits, even on a pretty soft entry and really nice silky tannins with great length and depth on the finish. I guess the overall message is really complexity, elegance and fruit, it’s kind of the whole package in one wine.”

The 2023 A. Rodda Baxendale Chardonnay from the King Valley has been awarded the Premier’s Trophy.

tralia, he said he doesn’t think radio would have ever been an option for him.

“I would never have thought of it in England, you’d have to be terribly, terribly la de da, very BBC, which I wasn’t.

“I do consider the British Broadcasting Corporation as my cultural nanny, I was brought up with it.

“But I never would have dreamed of being in radio in England.”

Last chance to apply

Community groups and artists across the Yarra Ranges have until 14 July to apply for funding for events and projects, through Yarra Ranges Council’s Annual Grants program.

The grants program supports not-for-profit groups and artists in the municipality, to deliver projects through 2026.

Three funding categories are available for Arts and Heritage (up to $10,000 per application), Community Development (up to $10,000 per application), and Festivals and Events (up to $15,000 per application).

Yarra Ranges mayor Jim Child said annual grants were a key part of the region’s creative calendar every year.

“Throughout the year, we have so many community events and festivals for people to attend, to make friends and have a fantastic day out. I’m proud to say that many of these receive funding through our grants programs – whether through our Annual Grants, our Monthly Grants, or our Multi Year Grants,” Cr Child said.

“Our Annual Grants also help fund projects at Community Houses, sustainability programs, and help to turn great ideas in our communities into reality.

“Having grant funding provides certainty and support, which can help with planning, rally volunteers and staff, seek further funding, or just get the cogs turning on a project.

“Our grants are one of the most important things we do here at Council, funding our vibrant

Healesville Festival marked a huge success in May thanks to support from Yarra Ranges Council through the Yarra Ranges Council’s Annual Grants program. (Dongyun Kwon: 477400)

and creative community, and I’d encourage anyone with a great idea for a project to get in touch, talk through their idea, and see if it’s eligible.”

Projects funded for the 2025 round include funding for cooking activities at Lilydale Community House, including Soup and Stories, a social cooking group, and Cooking for One, which helps community members learn how to create healthy, fresh and affordable meals through a five week program.

The Kallista Centenary Celebration festival received 2025 funding, as did the Warburton Film Festival, Healesville Festival and Kilsyth Festival. Grant applicants are strongly encouraged to connect with Yarra Ranges Council’s Grants team before applying.

Find out more at yarraranges.vic.gov.au/ grants

Until the age of 101, Monty lived in his own home and even composed an entire symphony using his computer, which was performed last year. Now he enjoys a good game of carpet bowls with his fellow residents at MiCare in Kilsyth.
Monty Maizels celebrated his 102nd birthday on Thursday 26 June. (Stewart Chambers. 486047)
Forever the musician, Monty conducted his own happy birthday tune. (486047)
Monty Maizels with family members Andrew, Dale and Sue. (486047)
Winemaker Victoria Schwarz representing Oakridge Wines at the Parliament House. (Supplied)

Plenty of activities for all

With school holidays just around the corner, parents are already thinking about how to keep their little ones entertained during the break. This July, Lilydale Marketplace is serving up the perfect solution with two exciting hands-on workshops that promise to be both fun and deliciously educational.

Bubble Tea Adventures with Sharetea

Young food enthusiasts aged 4-12 can dive into the world of bubble tea at Sharetea’s specially designed Kids Bubble Tea Making Workshops. These engaging 45-minute sessions offer children the chance to learn about this popular drink while getting their hand dirty creating their very own bubble tea masterpiece.

During the workshop kids will discover the secrets behind bubble tea, choose their favourite ingredients, and experience the satisfying ritual of shaking up their own drink. The best part is that each participant gets to enjoy a complimentary kids or regular-sized drink that they’ve made themselves – talk about earning your treat!

The workshops run on Tuesday 8 and Wednesday 9 July with sessions available at 11.00am, 12.00pm, and 1.00pm. At just $10 per ticket (plus processing fees) it’s an affordable way to introduce children to new flavours and cooking techniques.

Sushi Making Mastery at Sushi Hub

For budding chefs who prefer savoury creations Sushi Hub is offering an incredible opportunity to learn from expert chefs. The Kids Sushi Making Workshop takes place on Wednesday 9 July from 10.00am to 3.00pm with five sessions spread throughout the day.

Children will work with fresh quality ingredients including rice, seaweed, chicken, and cucumber to create authentic sushi rolls. Under the guidance of experienced chefs kids will master the art of sushi preparation while learning about this beloved Japanese cuisine. The workshop is held in a

With school holidays coming up, there’s plenty of fun to find at

dedicated space opposite Sushi Hub ensuring plenty of room for young chefs to work their magic.

At just $5.50 per ticket this workshop offers exceptional value – and hungry participants get to eat their delicious creations on the spot!

Book Now – Limited Spots Available

Both workshops have proven incredibly popular with families and spots are filling fast. Lilydale Marketplace continues to be a hub for community activities offering families convenient access to unique experiences right on their doorstep.

Don’t miss out on these fantastic holiday activities that combine learning, creativity, and delicious results. Head to lilydalemarketplace.com.au to secure your child’s spot before they’re gone. With the school holidays starting Friday 5 July, now is the perfect time to lock in some memorable experiences for your little ones.

Please

Please

Have fun making bubble tea this school holidays. (Supplied)
Lilydale Marketplace. (Supplied)

Thank you to all

As I pen this first column since the May 2025 Election, I feel a deep sense of both pride and responsibility.

It is an honour to be re-elected by our community and given the opportunity to continue representing our home in the Australian Parliament.

Each Australia election is underpinned by hardworking Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) staff who conduct the ballot across our nation with professionalism and integrity.

To have the opportunity to vote – with the added confidence that the outcome will be fair - is a privilege we should never take for granted.

I am pleased that my positive local plan resonated in our community.

I have spent the past three years getting out to speak to locals where they are – and my local plan centred around providing solutions to some of the challenges we face.

I was proud that the Liberals committed to establishing an Urgent Care Clinic in Healesville.

While we didn’t form government at this elec-

From my From my desk

Federal Member for Casey

tion, our strong community campaign and petition resulted in Labor finally listening and announcing an Urgent Care Clinic for Lilydale.

To make matters confusing, during the election the Labor candidate for Casey stated on multiple occasions that the clinic would be in Healesville.

I recently wrote to the Prime Minister and Health Minister seeking clarity on the location.

I will keep our community informed and continue advocating for this clinic to be delivered.

I know firsthand that we also need reliable telecommunications, better local roads and upgraded local facilities.

It is disappointing Labor did not match any of my commitments in these areas, however, I won’t stop fighting for the investment and infrastructure our community deserves.

It has been great to get straight back to work fighting for our community post-election.

I am looking forward to getting back to Canberra this month for the opening of the 48th Parliament.

I will continue to be a strong local voice on issues impacting our community and our nation.

We have lots of work to do to ensure Casey remains the best place to call home – and to ensure future generations have the same opportunity to grow up in the beautiful Australia we all grew up in.

As we look ahead, my commitment is to represent all residents of Casey, regardless of how they voted, and I can’t wait to continue the work we’ve started.

M3Gan 2 gets four out of five

with a newfound conscience.

A beautiful, poignant classic PASSION FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

Book review of Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson Bridge to Terabithia, by renowned American author Katherine Paterson, was published in 1977.

The classic middle-grade novel won a Newbery Medal in 1978, a literary award presented to the author of “the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children”.

The book tells the story of ten-yearold Jess, a fifth-grader from a poor rural family who loves running and drawing.

As the only male child at home, with four demanding sisters and a father who is strict and often away working, he feels ignored and isolated.

But life takes an unexpected turn when Jess befriends his new neighbour Leslie, an only child and tomboy from a wealthy family whose vivid imagination makes reading and writing an absolute delight.

Together they explore the woods and invent an enchanted land called Terabithia, making themselves the king and queen of the hidden land and their pet dog Prince Terrien.

To enter Terabithia is only by swinging over the creek bed on an old rope.

The magical kingdom is the source of many thrilling adventures.

It is here that, like the children in C.S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia, Jess and Leslie find vision and strength and learn much about beauty, courage, and caring.

Until tragedy strikes, that is.

The book deals with the themes of love and friendship, of finding inspiration and joy in the seemingly ordinary and mundane.

There are also the themes of death and grief, with the author gently conveying the message of learning how to accept and express grief, instead of merely enduring adversity in the name of “resilience” and “perseverance”.

This is particularly important for children, who often lack sufficient vocabulary and skills to channel intense and complex emotions such as fear, anguish, guilt and shame.

Instead of telling readers what Jess feels, the author subtly yet effectively lets him express his feelings, without trying to gloss over or dramatise anything.

M3Gan 2.0, the sequel to the 2022 sci-fi horrorcomedy M3Gan, is the Terminator 2: Judgment Day of the M3Gan franchise, with a grander scale and more elaborate set-pieces, a killer robot turned good (and barred from killing) against a more advanced robot threat, and the driving theme of AI-induced nuclear armageddon.

Robotics expert Grace (Alison Williams) must reluctantly team up with Megan (Amie Donald), her android creation who tried to kill her, to take down a runaway military android.

M3Gan 2.0 is full of snarky wit and lucid commentary on the dangers of AI and runaway tech

trends, with Jemaine Clement as an amusing Elon Musk parody. Williams and Donald have a fun adversarial dynamic once again as two people who hate each other but work together for a common good, and Megan shows gratifying growth as a murderbot

The action is exciting, creative and bloodier than the infamously bloodless first film.

The Macguffin of a vintage motherboard housing a godlike AI may have drawn inspiration from the Old AI SCP Foundation short story.

The only major weak link is Amelia (Ivanna Sakhno), the rogue military android.

Sakhno plays Amelia with deadly grace, and I love the allusions to Fritz Lang’s Metropolis in her costume and secret purpose, but a third-act twist robs her of any agency as the antagonist, which the plot must clumsily restore in the climax.

Plus, Grace’s role in Amelia’s creation is rather poorly-defined, and the way Megan can easily back-up her consciousness harms the tension.

Bigger and mostly better, though a little sloppier, than the first film, Megan 2.0 is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

Jesse and Leslie are wonderful characters that resonate with readers of all ages, and it is hard not to shed a tear or two while questioning why the book ends the way it does.

Despite the heartwrenching plot, however, the theme of building bridges is poignant and uplifting – not just for healing, but also for connection and understanding, pushing boundaries and reaching beyond.

As the author remarked in her Newbery Medal Acceptance Speech: “You don’t put together a bridge for a child. You become one – you lay yourself across the chasm... The very valley where evil and despair defeat us can become a gate of hope – if there is a bridge.”

This reviewer would highly recommend parents pick up this book and read it together with their children.

M3Gan 2.0
Starring Alison Williams, Amie Donald and Ivanna Sakhno M 4/5

Discover modern terrace homes in Croydon

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

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

Vibrant retirement living

In the heart of Lilydale, where the lush Yarra Valley meets the Dandenong Ranges, stands Lilydale Valley Views – not just a retirement village, but a thriving community where residents relish every moment of their golden years. For the past 15 years, we have meticulously crafted an environment that goes beyond providing accommodation; it’s a place where the essence of retirement living is fully embraced.

Our village boasts an array of accommodation options, from stunning homes with valley views to cosy terrace living. With 139 homes, including semi-attached 2/3 bedroom units, each designed to ensure a family-like atmosphere, we prioritise creating a space that fits the unique preferences of every resident.

What sets Lilydale Valley Views apart is the commitment to offering a comprehensive retirement experience. Picture a heated indoor swimming pool and spa, providing residents with an oasis for relaxation and exercise. Imagine weekly Tai Chi and dancersize sessions, tailored to keep both the body and mind active and engaged. Our village bus takes the hassle out of shopping, offering a convenient door-to-door service, freeing residents from the need to drive and park.

One of the key pillars of our community is the vibrant social committee. This dedicated group organises a plethora of indoor and outdoor activities, ensuring residents always have opportunities for connection and enjoyment. From outings to social events, our calendar is brimming with activities that cater to diverse interests, creating an enriching experience for everyone.

Yet, the true magic lies in the residents themselves. A wonderful group of people with a wide range of interests, they form the beating heart of our community. The warmth and genuine sense of camaraderie that have flourished over the years are truly heartwarming. Newcomers quickly find themselves embraced by the community, invited to various activities and social occasions, allowing them to tailor their level of engagement.

At Lilydale Valley Views, we recognise the importance of social connections for overall health and wellbeing as we age. Our environment is curated to facilitate an active and connected lifestyle, fostering a sense of community that extends beyond the physical boundaries of the village.

Centrally located near essential amenities, including medical practitioners, supermarkets, and the train station – all within walking distance – Lilydale Valley Views provides a seamless blend of convenience and tranquillity. The nearby Warburton Trail offers residents the opportunity for scenic walks or bike rides, while a thriving veggie/flower garden on-site adds to the communal spirit. As a testament to our commitment to excel-

lence, we are proud to have built a retirement village that has evolved into a close-knit community. Lilydale Valley Views is not merely a place to live; it’s a place where people flourish, creating a tapestry of shared experiences and cherished moments.

In celebration of our journey and the joy of vibrant retirement living, we invite you to explore Lilydale Valley Views. Come and witness firsthand the beauty of terrace living, stunning views, and the warm embrace of a community that defines the essence of retirement living.

For more information, contact Lilydale Valley Views at 471 Maroondah Highway, Lilydale, email manager@lilydalevalleyviews.com.au, or call 03 9735 5944 to speak with Rosemary Seymour our manager. Our doors are open from 9am to 4.30pm, welcoming you to a new chapter of vibrant retirement living.

Be part of a vibrant Community and enjoy the Facilities

Be part of a vibrant Community and enjoy the Facilities

For Sale - Unit 96 $710,000

Enjoy Modern open space, and a lovely private terrace

Enjoy Modern open space, and a lovely private terrace

Beautiful two bedroom unit with modern kitchen, plenty of living space, and single garage with internal entry. The home includes a generous accessible bathroom, as well as a second toilet in a powder room. Enjoy a substantial private courtyard, to supplement the wonderful gardens and facilities of Lilydale Valley Views.

Beautiful two bedroom unit with modern kitchen, plenty of living space, and single garage with internal entry. The home includes a generous accessible bathroom, as well as a second toilet in a powder room. Enjoy a substantial and of Valley Views.

Call Rosemary now on 9735 5944 to arrange an inspection. You won’t be disappointed.

Call Rosemary now on 9735 5944 to arrange an inspection. You won’t be disappointed.

Breathtaking views await residents at Lilydale Valley Views. (Supplied)
Meet and mingle with friends in the community centre. (Supplied)
Enjoy some quite time with a book from the extensive library collection. (Supplied)

‘ESCAPE the city and embrace a new way of living at Chayah — a remarkable 35-acre property where countryside charm meets thoughtful design and income potential. Located just an hour from Melbourne and a short 30-minute drive from Berwick, this lifestyle haven offers more than just a home — it’s a place to thrive.

At the heart of the property is a dual-living homestead featuring 7 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, ideal for large families, two families buying the property to cohabitate, multigenerational living, or hosting guests. Whether you’re seeking a tree-change, launching a boutique farm stay, or expanding your equine business, Chayah presents a rare blend of serenity, practicality, and financial opportunity.

Look out the back windows over the meandering creek and up the rolling green hills beyond.

Property Highlights

35 acres of rolling green pastures, dotted with mature trees and picturesque vistas. Two residences connected via an innovative “airlock” design, complete with double-glazed windows for year-round comfort and beautiful recycled red bricks.

• 7 bedrooms | 4 bathrooms – perfect for extended family living or income generation.

• A Sustainable Sanctuary

• Fed by a perennial spring-fed creek—a reliable water source for both home and farm. Passive eco-design incorporating reclaimed materials, rustic timbers, and natural finishes. Separate decks for each dwelling to enjoy tranquil views and the scent of native eucalyptus.

Equestrian Excellence

• Operating horse agistment business in place—ready to go!

• Arena (60m x 20m) with riversand base, 20m round yard, and multiple private & group paddocks, some paddocks with shelters. Wash bay, 6 undercover tie-up bays, and wellmaintained fencing throughout.

Farming & Infrastructure

• Goat-friendly paddocks fenced and creek-accessible.

• Cattle yard with truck access.

• Multiple outbuildings: including an insulated workshop, hay shed, machinery shed, woodshed, and a chook shed with chook run. Abundant Gardens & Produce Low-maintenance gardens on fertile soil. Established fruit trees: pomegranate, apricot, fig, and blood orange included. 60,000L rainwater tanks plus spring-fed supply for peace of mind.

NEW RESEARCH SHOWS PROPERTY BUYERS SLASH THEIR PURCHASE TIME

NEW research, released today by View Media Group’s view.com.au, shows FOMO (fear of missing out) is as real as ever, with Australians spending close to a third less time purchasing property since the 2020 survey. The time it took to move from the dreaming phase through to purchase phase reduced from 29.6 months in 2020 to 20.6 months in this year’s survey*.

Paul Tyrrell, Chief Marketing Officer said: “The significant reduction in time buyers are taking to move along the path to purchase is a clear sign of increased buyer urgency amid falling interest rates and a more favorable lending landscape.

“Stock availability due to the ongoing housing availability crisis is clearly an issue that accelerates this urgency.

“The research highlights that buyers know the time to act is now, and they want to purchase before another property boom cycle hits the market, driven by government firsthome buyer and downsizer incentives, interest rate cuts and greater borrowing capacity.

“Once buyers move into the purchasing phase when they are actively putting offers in or raising their hands at auctions; this stage of the journey has more than halved since 2022 from 6.8 months down to only 3.2 months.”

The research conducted by view.com.au, in conjunction with market research agency Australian Regional Insights, aimed to better understand the stages within the property journey and how property seekers recalled, used and trusted media sources. With over 700 property-engaged Australians taking part, the survey is the fourth study view.com.au has commissioned within this space, with the first completed in late 2020. The study also highlighted the motivations for purchasing, the types of buyers and further insights into vendors.

MrTyrrell continued: “In continuing this survey annually, we are able to understand the changes in the stages in the buyer’s path to purchase and the different influences on buyers. We found that within residential buyers, two ends of the spectrum are particularly active, first home buyers and downsizers.

“The survey also highlighted the top sources of information for buyers, with portals continuing to play a large role. However google search, social media and agency websites themselves were top sources of information. Not surprisingly, social media ranked particularly highly with Gen Z (58 per cent and Millennial (33 per cent) audiences.”

For agents, the research highlighted the continued need for multi-channel campaigns to not only attract potential buyers but to

assist in finding their next vendor. When removing the portals as an information source, buyers in the purchasing stage are almost 3 times more likely to use google search as a key source of information and in the active stage 46% more likely to use social media than other media types***. Furthermore 85% of vendors believe that listing their property across multiple portals is the number 1 ‘must have’ in an agent’s marketing strategy..

A new deep dive this year put the spotlight on vendors, to further understand their property journey. It found vendors typically sell within three months, and settlement takes just under four months. It also highlighted the vast majority sell through a real estate agent rather than through brokers and private channels.

“The agency model is still the most common way to sell in Australia. However, in choosing agents, it was interesting to find that the personality of the agent was the most important factor when selecting which agent to represent your property. Following their personality, their suburb expertise, sales approach, brand and reputation and marketing plan were also important factors,” said Trent Casson, managing director, residential.

“In terms of their marketing plan, it was a must-have to list across a majority of portals and also include a sign-board, quality photography, social media strategy and offer competitive pricing. This feedback also helps support our view.resi product strategy,

launched in late 2024,” he continued.

View.resi combines premium presence on view.com.au, its off-portal performance marketing product, Acquire, and data and AI solutions through Propic including the virtual concierge, Claire. The portal offering includes a free premium listing on view.com.au, unique in a highly competitive portal space where property marketing costs continue to escalate despite rising cost of living pressure.

“The path to purchase research is key for our business as it helps us in further understanding the ever evolving behaviour of buyers and sellers. This in turn helps inform

our product strategy, whilst also validating our commercial strategy. Furthermore, this research assists in educating our premium partners and helping them further understand the behaviours of potential customers. We look forward to continuing to deliver this research in the years to come,” said Mr Casson.

View.resi has been on a significant growth trajectory recently with a slate of new premium partnerships recently announced including Marshall White, Highland, BresicWhitney, Abercromby’s and Clarke & Humel.

Paul Tyrrell, Chief Marketing Officer.

FAMILY SPACE WITH COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE

TUCKED away in a quiet and convenient pocket this fantastic home offers the ideal family lifestyle.

Offering 3 bedrooms, including an oversize main bedroom and walk in robe with plenty of potential to improve on. 2 large living/family rooms and a meals area offer plenty of space for the growing family.

The kitchen is fresh, modern and with ample bench and cupboard space and quality appliances.

Everyone will love the outdoors with a front deck to relax on, it’s a great spot to sit back and enjoy the filtered views and distant scenery.

The rear deck offers plenty of space to entertain as well, plenty of car space with a double lock-up garage and situated and a great block of approx 1000sqm.

A fantastic property in a great location and positioned just a short stroll to local schools, shops and transport.

SpaciousLivingonover 3Acresin aBeautifulSetting Nestledonjustover3 acresofhighlysoughtafterland,thisimmaculatelypresentedhomeenjoysa peacefulandprivatesetting.Thehome’sfourbedroomsareallappointedwithbuilt-inrobesand whiletheprivatelypositionedmastersuiteattherearoffers atranquilretreat,completewitha walkinrobeandensuite.Theexpansivekitchenshowcasesa contemporarydesignwithneutraltones, generousbenchspace,andanabundanceofcupboards.Theinclusionofinternalgarageaccess addsversatility,providingtheopportunitytocreatea homeofficespace. Aseparaterumpusroom enhancesthehome’sappealfurther.Outdoors, asubstantialcarportandpoweredgaragewith aconcretefloorprovideamplestorage,workspace,orparkingfortrades,hobbyists,orthosewith largervehiclesandcaravans.Thisis arareopportunitytosecure asliceofcountryparadise!

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068 Inspection: Sat1:30 -2:00pm

27.7AcresofPrimeLand– RareOpportunitywithSpectacularViews Ifyou’vebeenconsideringinvestinginWarburton,nowisthetime!Withcommencementofthe WarburtonMountainBikeDestination,thiscouldbewhatyou’vebeenwaitingfor!Opportunities likethisarerare,thislandiscentrallylocatedandperchedproudlyatthetopofBrisbaneHillRoad whichallowsdirectaccessintothetownhub.Thisstunningparceloflandofferssweepingpanoramic viewsacrosstheWarburtontownshipandbeyond.Comprisingofthreeseparatetitles,several openpaddocksidealforgrazinghorsesorcattle,thepositioncreates apicturesquesettingideal forthoseseekingprivacy,lifestyle,orinvestment.Withwaterandelectricityalreadyconnected,the groundworkislaidforyoutobringyourvisiontolife,whetheritbea dreamhome,eco-retreat,ora strategicinvestmentinoneofthemostsoughtafterdestinationsintheYarraValley.

SituatedintheYarraJunctiontownshipon anearlevelallotmentofapprox.2023sqmorover1/2an acre,thisistheidealchancetoconsolidateyourinvestmentfuture.WithNeighbourhoodResidential Zone -Schedule2 (NRZ2),thereis aCouncilPlanningPermitandplanstosubdivideinconjunction withtheadjoiningpropertyhoweverthisnowprovidesdifferentpotentialutilizingtheconceptsand reportsalreadyprepared(STCA).Thetenantedhomeisverywellpresentedandcomprisesof3 bedrooms,spacioustimberkitchenandfamilysizediningareaplus agreatlivingareawithcathedral ceilings.Alreadyfencedofffromthebalanceoftheallotment,theexcellentlongtermrenterideally wouldliketocontinueleasinggivinganincomeatthesametime.Soughtafterlocation,shortwalk totheUpperYarraHighSchoolandLittleYarraSteinerSchoolandoffersloadsofpotential!

0401832068

FamilySpacewithComfortandConvenience Tuckedawayin aquietandconvenientpocketthisfantastichomeofferstheidealfamilylifestyle. Offering 3bedrooms,includinganoversizemainbedroomandwalkinrobewithplentyofpotential toimproveon. 2largeliving/familyroomsand amealsareaofferplentyofspaceforthegrowing family.Thekitchenisfresh,modernandwithamplebenchandcupboardspaceandquality appliances.Everyonewilllovetheoutdoorswith afrontdecktorelaxon,it’sa greatspottositback andenjoythefilteredviewsanddistantscenery.Thereardeckoffersplentyofspacetoentertainas well,plentyofcarspacewith adoublelockupgarageandsituatedanda greatblockofapprox 1000sqm.A fantasticpropertyina greatlocationandpositionedjust ashortstrolltolocalschools, shopsandtransport.

CHARACTER HOME IN THE HEART OF BELGRAVE

NESTLED on a quiet street within walking distance to Belgrave Township, this beautifully presented weatherboard home is brimming with character, charm and modern comforts.

Boasting four generously sized bedrooms, including a master with walk-in robe and ensuite, the home effortlessly blends classic style with family functionality. Multiple living zones include a formal lounge and a dedicated dining area, complemented by a large, openplan kitchen and meals / family area-perfect for both everyday living and entertaining.

The well-appointed kitchen impresses with stainless steel appliances including a gas cooktop, electric oven, and dishwasher, along with abundant bench and cupboard space and a convenient breakfast bar.

Temperature control is assured year-round with ducted heating, evaporative cooling, a split-system unit, plus there are stunning polished floorboards that add warmth and character throughout. A spacious laundry with external access completes the practical layout.

Step outside and discover the expansive undercover entertaining area, ideal for hosting friends and family in any season. A charming wrap-around veranda, accessible from three rooms, adds to the home’s appeal and offers peaceful spots to retreat and unwind.

Set on a fully useable, fenced block, the property also features a sealed driveway leading to a double garage with remotecontrolled door, providing both convenience and security.

Pretty as a picture and perfect for families of any size, this is a hands down winner in anybody’s book.

PURSUE YOUR EQUINE DREAM WITH TWO HOMES

DISCOVER a unique 12-acre sanctuary in the heart of Macclesfield — welcome to Whispering Gums, a property that masterfully blends rural living with exceptional equestrian infrastructure. Far more than just a home, this is a lifestyle destination ideal for large families, multi-generational living, hobby farmers, and horse lovers alike.

Two Distinct Homes, One Harmonious Estate At the heart of the property lies the main residence, accessed by a horseshoe driveway. With a double carport, an additional tripleheight carport perfect for floats or caravans, and a spacious layout inside, every detail is crafted for ease of living. The open-plan living zone is light filled and anchored by a woodfire heater and a split system for year-round comfort. A generous kitchen with an 8-burner gas cooktop and electric oven caters to the most ambitious of home chefs. Step out to the expansive deck, and you’re greeted with panoramic views of the Warburton Ranges — the ideal spot to entertain, relax, or simply breathe.

With six bedrooms in total — including a private master suite with walk-in robe and ensuite — there’s room for everyone to spread out. Multiple living areas, a cleverly integrated family bathroom/laundry, and direct access to beautifully landscaped gardens and a securely fenced, solar-heated pool round out the home. The second dwelling is equally impressive, perfect for extended family or guests. Featuring three bedrooms, a light-filled sunroom, well-equipped kitchen, and its own modern comforts including ducted heating, woodfire, and split system, it offers independence without compromise.

Equestrian Excellence Meets Outdoor Leisure

Whispering Gums is a dream come true for

horse enthusiasts. The property includes:

• A professional-grade 60x30m all-weather floodlit arena

• A round yard and multiple fenced grass holding yards

• 12 paddocks (4 with shelters), all with water access

A high-quality stable complex with stables, tack and pony rooms, wash bay, and sawdust bay

This is a property built for serious equestrian use — or for those simply enchanted by country living at its best.

Sustainability and Self-Sufficiency

Energy efficiency is built-in, with solar panels on both homes and extensive rainwater storage — approximately 150,000 litres across 7 tanks. The gardens are well established, including a productive orchard, veggie beds, and garden sheds for all your growing needs. The partially cleared bushland, complete with a natural spring and a dam large enough for canoeing, adds to the charm and versatility of the land.

Creative, Practical & Ready to Inspire

Beyond the homes, you’ll find spaces designed for work, creativity, and play:

• A powered, woodfire-heated studio/games room with rustic brick walls

• A dedicated workshop/garage with concrete floor and roller door

Electric gated entry with remote and keypad access

Secure, pet-friendly fencing throughout Whispering Gums isn’t just a property — it’s a lifestyle upgrade.

If you’ve been searching for a place where serenity meets sophistication, and where horses and humans alike thrive in equal measure, this exceptional Macclesfield retreat may be exactly what you’ve been waiting for. ●

ALLABOARD!

Today,thisoldredrattleritis afunctionalhomecomprisingfrontdeck,twobedrooms, spaciousopenplanliving/diningroom,fullyrenovatedbathroom/laundrycombined with aluxuriousdeepbath(witha view),shower,connectionsfora washingmachine,& aseparatetoilet.Centralkitchenwithelectricstove,rangehood,cosymealsareawith originalbench seat.This fullcarriagestill highlightsoriginal fixtures, ornate pressedtin & timberwork, guards/driverfittings& muchmore. Doublecarport&2separateentrances.

MickDolphin 0429684522 MargieLawn 0494175410

SOLD -Renovated 2BedroomUnit

1/80ParkDrive,BelgravewassuccessfullySoLDinjust18days,following astrong campaignthatattracted22inspections.Thewell-maintainedtwo-bedroomunitoffered acomfortablelayout &convenientlocationclosetoparkland &transport.Theresult reflectsongoingbuyerdemandforqualityhomesinthearea& highlightstheimportance ofwell-managedmarketing &presentation.We’reproudtohavesupportedtheVendor throughoutthissuccessfulsalescampaign.

MargieLawn 0494175410 MickDolphin 0429684522

Areyoudreamingof atreechange?Characterrichlogcabin,originallybuiltover90 yearsago,blendingtimelesscharmwithmoderncomfort.Lovinglymaintained,featuring ductedheatingandsplitsystemair-conditioning,invitingopenfireplace,instanthotwater andgascookingappliances,anexpansivedeckwithstunningviews,nearacreof flat landscapedgrounds,wherea gentlecreekwindsaroundthebottom,anorchardwith seasonalfruitandanabundanceofparking.Thisismorethana

MickDolphin 0429684522

MargieLawn 0494175410

0418528102

hereisyourchancetomakeitcometrue!Witheaseofaccessviathelongsweeping drivewayyouarriveat amassiveunderhousegaragewiththefour-bedroomhome abovethathasbeenwellpositionedforthesunnyaspectoverSassafrasCreekreserve.

HOME FOCUS

EFFORTLESS LIVING – STYLISH AND SPACIOUS

SET on a picturesque 3,960m², this beautifully finished home offers a seamless blend of modern comfort, timeless style, and relaxed country living. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered, presenting an ideal move-in-ready lifestyle with nothing more to do.

Year-round comfort is assured with split system heating and cooling, ceiling fans, and wood heating. Outside, the lifestyle continues with landscaped gardens, charming brick edging, and sweeping views across the hills — offering beautiful sunsets as your daily backdrop. A standout feature is the expansive shed, complete with built-in bar, Coonara heater, and paved verandah — ideal for entertaining, hobbies, or secure storage.

Inside, the home is light, fresh, and beautifully presented. A welcoming colour palette, new carpet, vinyl plank flooring, and a full repaint set the tone for a home that feels as good as it looks. At its heart, the modern kitchen is well-appointed with stainless steel appliances, ample storage, and an adjoining dining space that opens via French doors to a vast, decked entertaining area — ideal for alfresco living and long summer evenings.

A step down reveals a generous family lounge with soaring ceilings and a Coonara wood fire—perfect for cosy nights in. The home comprises three bedrooms, two with built-in robes, all serviced by a stunning family bathroom featuring a freestanding bath, double vanity, LED lighting, and separate toilet. The near-new laundry adds further practicality.

The securely fenced house yard ensures safety for kids and pets, while the remaining land offers room to grow, explore, or make your own. Located just minutes from the Cockatoo township and within easy reach of Pakenham, this property combines peaceful living with everyday convenience.

An exceptional opportunity to secure a home that’s ready to enjoy from day one — inspection will impress.

This property has it all so don’t miss outcall 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.

SpaciousFamilyLivingwithStudio &CentralConvenience. Seton1,214sqm(approx.)betweenEmerald& Monbulk,thisimmaculatefour-bedroomhomeoffers flexible,family-friendlylivingjusta three-minutewalktoButterfieldPark. Aconcretedrivewaywraps totherearwitha full-lengthverandah,while acharmingfrontentrywelcomesguests.Inside,soaring ceilings,vinylplankflooring,GDH& s/scoolingensureyear-roundcomfort.Theopen-plankitchen featuresgascooking,walloven,largepantry &excellentbenchspace.A sunkenloungewithbay window &woodfireoffers acosyretreat.Themasterincludes aWIR &ensuite,withtwofurther bedrooms, astudy/fourthbedroom,bathroom &separatetoilet.Outdoorsoffers asecurebackyard, cubby,sheds,garagewithworkshop& separatestudiowithsoundproofroom.

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

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BethanySullivan M 0438844968

3 A 2 B 6 C

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SamanthaScott M 0438680032

PUZZLES

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

ACROSS

1 Vehicle propelled by explosive thrust (6)

4 Send (8)

9 Relation (5)

10 Outsiders (9)

11 Smell (5)

12 Speak impiously (9)

13 Irritated skin bubbles (8)

15 NSW capital (6)

16 Get the better of mentally (6)

18 Lacking footwear (8)

23 Central American country (9)

24 Spotless (5)

26 Protected (9)

27 Sun-dried brick (5)

28 Brought together (8)

29 Actor, – Irons (6)

DOWN

1 Common crumble ingredient (7)

2 Chocolate tree (5)

3 Refined (7)

5 Cerumen (6)

6 Extensive collection (7)

7 To that (arch) (9)

8 Stockings and socks (7)

10 Sword (US) (5)

14 Travelling (2,7)

16 Continuing (7)

17 Frozen sheet (3,4)

19 Give (5)

20 Place or group different from those surrounding it (7)

21 Leather factory (7)

22 Farm animals (6)

25 Summon (5)

Barkers fail to strike hard

Frankston’s Centenary Park was mild and sunny on Saturday as Barkers (sixth) met Peninsula Strikers (fifth). Both sides needed a win to keep pace with the top four. In team news, Barkers made one change to the side which drew 0-0 with North Caulfield, with Ryan Smith replacing Anthony Di Crea.

The first 10 minutes saw Strikers hitting long balls to the wings, but Barkers held out against the barrage. Then on 12 minutes, James Barber attacked down the right, but overhit his cross. Two minutes later, Tristan Walker began a good move which saw a shot spilled by Strikers keeper Faraz Zenoozi, and Ross Clark’s follow-up was blocked. Strikers broke straight back upfield, and Cooper Andrews hit a shot narrowly wide.

After some injury delays, Barkers lost the ball in their own half. Campbell Steedman played the ball out to Ethan Goulding, and he hit a long shot which Barkers keeper Vladi Velikin had covered. Barkers, though, were holding their own, and nine minutes before the break, Walker raided down the left and crossed for Marcus Watson, whose long shot went just over.

As the half moved into stoppage time, Walker, Danny Aye and Watson combined well to win a corner, but it came to nothing. Half-time: Strikers 0-0 Barkers, a fair reflection of an even half.

The second half saw Barkers work hard and being very physical in winning 50-50 balls, but Strikers began to take charge. Just before the hour, they fashioned a goal out of nothing when Barkers gave the ball away in defence on Strikers’ left. A long ball came into the box, and Samuel Maggs rose unchallenged to head the ball back across the keeper and into the net for 1-0 Strikers.

Strikers now visibly grew in confidence, and although just one goal down, Barkers looked to have a real challenge to get back into the game. Barkers’ best chance came on 72 minutes when Walker hit a corner from the left which flashed across the Strikers’ goalmouth. The ball was cleared out to Clark, who shot just wide. Tenminutesfromtheendcamethekillerblow. Barkers again gave the ball away with an underhit clearance, leaving Matthew Harrington with only the keeper to beat, and he duly put the ball wide

of Velikin. Full-time: Strikers 2-0 Barkers. Barkers played well in the first half, but lost their way in the second, despite working hard. The effort can’t be faulted, but mistakes continue to cost us, and promotion chances are rapidly diminishing. Barkers’ reserves went 2-0 up in the first half, but contrived to lose the match 2-3, with goals from Nate Turner and Leo Sea.

Next for the men is a home derby with Knox City (Esther Park, Saturday 1pm / 3pm). The women, who had the week off, travel to Colling-

wood City (Kevin Bartlett Reserve, Sunday 2pm). There was a rather special day of junior soccer at Esther Park on Sunday. The junior girls’ Community Premier League games between Barkers and Manningham United were designated as Louis Gibson Memorial Round, in honour of a nine-year-old boy who tragically passed away from asthma last year. Although a strong Manningham club won all three games, it was fitting that Louis’s twin sisters, Annabelle and Tess, both found the net on an emotional day.

Reserves win tough match, firsts fall apart late

The Lilydale Eagles journeyed out to Balwyn North for a rematch against One FC, with all sides in the VCFA Premier League 2 now having met.

The undermanned Reserves were up first, with a number of personnel changes creating a starting lineup with the evergreen Colin Dickson at left wing and usual keeper Callum Ludwig in midfield.

Ludwig showed all the grace and decorum of a keeper outfield early on in the first half, giving away a foul when contesting for a header in the 11th minute that resulted in a very early yellow card. Questionably, the booking only came after a polite request for one from a One FC player but at least good manners might still get you somewhere nowadays.

The Eagles had the majority of the play in the first half and had a golden chance denied when Mark Vanderkolk put in a curling ball to the back post which was met by a sliding Tarin Cooper, whose high shot was denied by a good save from One FC goalkeeper Jacob Carr.

The danger man Cooper wasn’t to be denied for long though, when in the 28th minute, while holding off a defender, he hooked a curling shot over his shoulder which took a deflection, looped up over the goalkeeper and into the side netting to give the Eagles the lead.

One FC didn’t manage to produce anything too threatening for the rest of the half and Lilydale went into the break with a one-goal advantage. In the second half, One FC started to become more threatening as fatigue set in for the Eagles with limited rotations.

The substitution of Seyed Amin Seyed Mortaz for One FC also added a spark in midfield, with his ability to drive past players and get shots and passes off.

One FC’s best chance of the game came early in the second half down their left wing but standin keeper Daniel ‘Dicko’ Dickson made a strong save to get it out and away.

A heavy knock for right-back Dylan Donovan saw him subbed off for a lengthy period and the pressure began to pile on the Eagles who were determined to hold out for the win.

There were numerous big efforts from Lilydale players, with Tarin Cooper dropping deep from right wing to offer defensive support, Colin Dickson taking on a man-marking role on Mortaz and Amin Fazl coming on in an unfamiliar left wing position after a potential injury to Byron Loveless.

One FC’s chances started to dry up as they tired from pushing forward, with the Eagles finding themselves with more time on the ball and

more space ahead after regaining possession but were unable to add any more goals to the scoreline. It was a gritty 0-1 win for the Reserves.

The Firsts were next up looking to pick up a positive result after losing the reverse fixture back in Round One.

Things got off to a positive start when a self-proclaimed ‘coaching masterclass’ from Dicko saw centre-back Kaiden Deany-Smith start up front, sneak in to the front post and flick on a shot that snuck into the goal in only the third

minute.

One FC grew back into the game, however and had a chance to level it in the 18th minute when a penalty was awarded and yellow card brandished to Lachy Hamling after he brought down One FC striker Jason Cuspilli in the box. Cuspilli duly converted with a shot into the bottom left corner.

The Eagles got back on top though and it was Deany-Smith again, this time at the back post nodding home a header from a long free kick by Dicko in the 31st minute, with the Eagles taking a 1-2 lead into halftime.

Unfortunately for the Eagles, they were again brought undone early in the second half by a set piece when Daniel Cavallin headed home from a corner in the 49th minute to equalise.

One FC started to get more physical as they looked to take the lead, resulting in bookings for Clarence Tam, Luke McDonald and Jack Nattrass throughout the second half.

They would get a go-ahead goal though, when defensive miscommunication from the Lilydale Eagles saw a ball over the top left to fall to the feet

of Nattrass who tucked his finish away in the 77th minute.

The Eagles would bounce back immediately however, pushing forward through Jasper Blair who put a ball across the box which was put into the One FC net by their own player Lachlan Suffern only a minute after the restart. With scores level again, both sides were keen to push on and try to find a winning goal but it was a defensive error from the Eagles that handed it to One FC when a misplaced pass at the back was played across the goal and intercepted, resulting in Mortaz in his second game of the day tucking it home.

Disappointingly for the Eagles, it wouldn’t be the last of the day as One FC got a late corner. Despite One FC only committing a couple of players forward for the corner as they looked to defend their lead, poor marking led to Mortaz having a free header in the 91st minute to put the game to bed.

The Eagles will take on Gideon’s Warriors at home next week.

The Peninsula Strikers kept the Barkers at bay, taking the win 2-0. (File: 343538)
Kaiden Deany-Smith celebrates after scoring his first goal. (Dongyun Kwon: 487321)
Fiifi Kwansah-Aidoo breaks away with the ball for the Reserves. (Dongyun Kwon: 487321)

Ayres calls time

After four years at the helm, an AFL greatturned Eastern League Division One coach has called time on his tenure come the end of the 2025 season.

Gary Ayres and Montrose Football Netball Club announced on Thursday 19 June they would be parting ways, despite Ayres having signed a two-year deal that would have seen him stay on for 2026.

Appointed senior coach off the back of the pandemic years, Ayres led the side to a top-four finish in 2022 and 2024 and a preliminary final appearance in 2023.

Admittedly, though, Ayres said it took him some time to recommit at the end of 2024, having lost a fair chunk of the list.

“We’d had a fairly reasonable charge of doing what we needed to do, and that was clearly the development aspect of our list in ‘22 and then, of course, that momentum continued through ‘23 with being one or two kicks off making a grand final,” he said.

“So, of course, your mindset is about (keeping) that momentum going again and trying to keep the group together.

“For a variety of reasons, there were probably close to 25, perhaps 27 players that either retired, were in the city and didn’t want to travel, players going into lesser competitions and being remunerated for those decisions. Others gave the game away through either injury or whatever.

“So clearly, that’s a significant chunk of players to leave at one particular time, and even though the development program has always been pretty solid, it was a case of how could we go that step further if we didn’t quite have the depth of the list? As hard as we tried, we didn’t really improve that.”

Currently midway through the home and away season, Ayres said he was always planning to make a decision about his coaching future at Montrose.

With four wins and five losses, placing the demons fifth on the ladder ahead of a tough run of games against Park Orchards, Boronia, Beaconsfield and North Ringwood, succeeding to finals was still the aim but the path there would require tenacity.

“The next month will probably determine what will happen at the business end of the year,” he said.

But ultimately, on reflection, Ayres said, “we’re a little bit further off than what I would like after being there for three and a half years”.

“We just haven’t been able to build our depth up enough to compete with the top two or three sides.”

Coming into the coaching role, Ayres was determined to see Montrose elevated back to the Premier Division but the combination of players leaving and a misalignment of values left this unattainable.

“My philosophies in relation to commitment, sacrifice, standards, professionalism, there is a little bit of a difference in how some guys view that, and I get that.

“But when some of your better players are missing through weddings or holidays, that could honestly be the difference between making finals or not.”

Ayres said for clubs like South Belgrave that

have seen success after success, they’ve typically built a side of talented players who have played at the club for three to six years, creating a sense of stability and sustainability.

“The development program has been pretty solid in giving young men opportunities (at Montrose).

“We still needed to have somewhere between four to six of what you would say is a great talent to just complement those young boys, and we’re a little way off doing that.”

As one of the bigger clubs in the Yarra Valley, now sporting senior women, senior men, reserves and two under-19 teams, Ayres said championing the ‘one club’ mantra was integral not only in culture but on the field too.

“The one club mantra, that’s super important, and even if it flows onto your game plan from a footballing point of view, that they have a similar game plan the seconds, the 19s, even the under 17s for that matter,” he said.

“These guys are then not only being developed from a craft point of view and skills and football acumen, but they’re also then being initiated with understanding the game plan,

that if they came up to the 19s, or if they come up to the seniors, they have a bit of an understanding of what is required at senior football.

“It gives everyone a greater consistency about how you want them to play.”

In a club statement, Montrose issued thanks and appreciation to Ayres, regarding him as “a true professional and passionate leader”.

“Gary raised the bar for our football program and club culture, always bringing a strong sense of purpose and, at times, a trademark sense of humour.

“His ability to build genuine relationships across all areas of the club was unmatched, and his efforts to elevate our ‘One Club’ mantra have had a lasting impact on the Montrose spirit.

“Gary’s legacy will not just be measured in wins and finals appearances, but in the people he’s inspired and the standards he’s set.”

Ayres confirmed he remains undecided about coaching in 2026 but is open to opportunities should they arise and still has “the passion and the energy to continue to coach”.

“But we’ll be trying to finish off the best that we can at Montrose.”

Coldstream women show their heart

The day kicked off with a strong statement from Coldstream’s Women’s Team, who faced Ferntree Gully away.

Despite missing several key players, coach Matt Coghlan reshuffled the line-up and tested out new combinations.

The changes paid off, with the team rising to the occasion and securing a 33-point victory.

Nyomie Lagerwey was instrumental in the win and was named the Coldstream Brewery Player of the Round for her dominant performance.

Back at home, excitement built as past players kicked off the day of celebrstions and club captain Darcy Fritsch prepared to run out for his 100th senior game for Coldstream.

A model of consistency and leadership throughout the club.

The crowd was also treated to a special Past Players Day, highlighted by the 50-year reunion of the 1975 senior premiership team.

As the celebrations continued, attention turned to the football, where both the Reserves and Senior Men’s teams had a tough assignment, taking on ladder-leaders Donvale at home.

Both matches proved to be hard-fought affairs, with Coldstream showing heart and determination in front of a vocal home crowd.

While Donvale showed why they’re top of the table, the Coldstream squads fought until the final siren, earning respect with their effort and commitment.

Cam Boeder was named Reserves player of the round and Daniel Versteegen was named the senior Yarra Valley Steel player of the round.

Despite the challenge on the scoreboard, the day’s atmosphere reflected what Coldstream FNC is all about unity, pride, and a deep respect for its history and future.

From young stars making their mark, to captains reaching career milestones, to premiership legends returning home, the Coldstream spirit was well and truly alive.

Despite missing several key players, Coldstream’s Women’s Team secured a 33-point victory.

Women lead the charge

It was a big weekend for the Mooroolbark ladies on the weekend, both on and off the field. The Vets women started proceedings on Friday night as they travelled up the hill to take on top of the ladder South Belgrave. In a low-scoring affair the Mustangs hung on to record a four-point win. Allison Kemp and Sharlene Still kicked a goal each.

Final Score: Mooroolbark 2 - 6 - 17 d South Belgrave 2 – 1 - 13

The Senior Women kicked the dew off the grass on Saturday morning when they hosted Berwick at the Heights Reserve. The Mustang girls got the jump on their opponents with a sixgoal to nil first term and increased their lead as the game progressed, managing to keep the Berwick girls scoreless for the game. Bella McMaster was unstoppable all over the ground while Danielle Carrucan dominated down forward and finished with seven goals. Jordy Doevelaar was also a standout in her 50th game. After the game, the girls joined their fellow female members in the social rooms for the annual Ladies Day, which was a great success and enjoyed by all who attended.

Final Score: Mooroolbark 14 – 12 – 96 d Berwick 0 – 0 – 0

Goals: Carrucan 7, Forrest 2, Doevelaar 2, Smith Anderson, McMaster, Maki 1 each

Best Players: McMaster, Carrucan, R. Haberfield, Doevelaar, Forrest, S. Haberfield

With the girls partying inside, it was time for the men to take on North Ringwood. The Reserves once again entered the field with a depleted side due to the ever-growing injury list but to their credit, took it right up to their opponents in the first half, trailing by only six points at the major break. Unfortunately, they ran out of legs in the second half but it was still a very encouraging effort. Alex Lutgens tried his heart out all game in the ruck and took many strong marks around the ground. Kynan Kowalski continued his good form and veteran James McManus showed he still has the skills and footy smarts in a solid display.

Final Score: Nth Ringwood 9 – 14 – 68 d Mooroolbark 4 – 3 – 27

Goals: McManus, Wolf, Tewksbury, Storm 1 each

Best Players: Lutgens, Kowalski, McManus, Stares, Kist, Brownley

By the time the Seniors ran out, the music was pumping and the drinks were flowing in the social rooms but the boys had to focus on the task at hand, and that was to take it right up to the North Ringwood boys. Once again, the Mustangs got away to a slow start and trailed by 20 points at quarter time. The second term showed a lot of improvement but again, inaccuracy in front of goal proved costly. The boys persevered in the second half but eventually went down by 42 points. The side welcomed Lachie Monteath back from Essendon VFL and he provided opportunities with his ruck work and marking around the ground. Paddy Downie played his best game for the club and fellow smalls, Marcus Hamilton and Jak Ryan had a red-hot go. With the bye next week, hopefully Mooroolbark can get a few players back from injury as they take on Bayswater the following week.

Final Score: Nth Ringwood 14 – 11 – 95 d Mooroolbark 7 – 11 – 53

Goals: Gebert 2, Downie2, Bates, Wright, Amiet 1 each

Best Players: Downie, Hamilton, Ryan, Monteath, Noonan, B. Batten

Gary Ayres has called time on his senior coaching tenure at Montrose Football Netball Club. (Supplied)
Ayres will finish out the 2025 season, hoping to make finals for the fourth year in a row. (Supplied)
(Supplied)
Mooroolbark Football Club’s women’s player Jordy Doevelaar. (Supplied)

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