No matter the conditions, Wesburn/Millgrove and Warburton CFA members are climbing the Mount Donna Buang Observation Tower to train for this year’s Melbourne Firefighters Stair Climb. Taking place on 6 September, it will raise funds for the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation, Lifeline and the 000 Foundation.
Read more on page 8
staff member on 11
and a member of the public reported a third dead platypus the previous day. Victorian National Parks Association (VNPA) parks and nature campaigner Jordan Crook said it was heart wrenching to witness the damage caused by a lack of enforcement.
“There’s less regulators on the beat making
for platypus while also
to
yabbies,” Mr Crook said.
Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) reduced its overall staffing by 50 per cent and slashed the number of compliance officers across the state from 73 to 35 in June.
Opera house nets were banned in July 2019 due to a large amount of platypuses and rakali being killed in the traps.
In May the Star Mail reported on a dead platypus killed by an abandoned hoop nest in the Yarra River in East Warburton.
Read more on page 3
The Wesburn/Millgrove and Warburton CFAs train every Saturday for the MFSC. (Supplied)
Gaps leaving women at risk
By Maeve Bannister, AAP
Women and children escaping family violence are being “ping-ponged” between services, as support sectors try to manage inadequate resources and critical underfunding.
In Victoria, family violence is the biggest driver of homelessness.
In 2022/23, more than half of all women, young people and children who visited a specialist homelessness service reported they were experiencing family violence.
Yet a report by Council to Homeless Persons and Safe and Equal found about one in five victim-survivors receives two referrals to homelessness or family violence services, but ultimately ends up with no crisis accommodation.
Chronic underinvestment in social housing is being blamed for increasingly long waitlists with women, young people and children who have family violence prioritisation waiting 19 months for accommodation.
“What homelessness looks like in Victoria today is a woman aged between 25 and 39 with a child under the age of 11 with her,” Council to Homeless Persons chief executive Deborah Di Natale told AAP.
“Imagine fleeing violence with your children, knocking on two different doors, and still sleeping in your car that night.”
Ms Di Natale said a staggering 20 per cent of women fleeing violence experienced a “revolving door” of referrals to various services but ultimately were not able to access accommodation.
“Often because the crisis and emergency accommodation isn’t there, services end up referring people to hotels and motels which aren’t set up to respond to family violence,” she said.
But women were opting to sleep in their cars or return to their violent partners rather than stay in motels and caravan parks.
“People with lived experience say staying in motels is often scarier than staying in a violent household ... they worry they are not safe from the person using violence,” Ms Di Natale said.
“Being crammed in a hotel with kids after fleeing your home without any wraparound supports like counselling is isolating.”
The report makes 10 key recommendations to the Victorian government to enable immediate and long-term change.
These include building 7990 new and additional social homes every year for 10 years and funding services that provide immediate and appropriate responses to people experiencing family violence and homelessness.
It also recommends the state government invest in perpetrator interventions and advocate for all social payments to be brought above the Henderson poverty line of $612.18 per week, per single person.
Consumers win in card surcharge cut as business bristles
By Alex Mitchell, AAP
Removing surcharges fees on debit and credit card transactions could save consumers more than $1 billion, but small businesses say the changes will just hide the costs in increased prices.
The Reserve Bank of Australia’s review of merchant card payment costs recommends the fees be scrapped on EFTPOS, Mastercard and Visa card transactions because they don’t help consumers make more efficient payment choices.
Consumers are estimated to pay $1.2 billion in surcharges on payments each year, the equivalent of $60 per card-using adult.
Lowering the cap on interchange fees paid by businesses - another recommendationwould save Australians $1.2 billion.
The fee is paid by a business to a customer’s card issuer when a transaction occurs.
But the Australian Restaurant and Cafe Association slapped down the proposal, and suggested the “tone deaf” policy would simply drive up menu prices.
“Who the hell does the RBA think will bear the cost of this ridiculous decision?” chief executive Wes Lambert said.
“A blanket ban on surcharging will undermine small businesses, reduce price transparency and mandate price hikes across every
menu in Australia.”
The Council of Small Business Organisations Australia said businesses would just raise their prices and the changes would hide, rather than remove, surcharges.
The Independents Payment Forum - a body that represents small businesses including retailers, cafes, service stations and convenience stores - said other merchant fees would still eat into profit margins.
“The proposed regulatory options fail
small businesses and the local communities they serve,” co-founder Bradford Kelly said.
“They benefit big business, big banks and big offshore companies.”
The RBA’s proposals go further than previous federal government suggestions and are likely to be pushed through by the central bank, pending the outcome of a short feedback window.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers had said the government was prepared to ban fees on debit card transactions from the start of 2026.
But the RBA has included credit cards.
The government will consider the recommendation, but Dr Chalmers on Tuesday noted the RBA expected to be able to make the changes under its existing powers.
The central bank proposed removing prohibitions on “no surcharge” rules to achieve scrapping the fees.
It expected the card networks would then follow by implementing “no surcharge” rules based on historical experience and arrangements in other jurisdictions.
If that did not occur, the RBA would recommend the government legislate to ban surcharge fees.
Canstar data insights director Sally Tindall said consumers were fed up with being slugged with extra fees at the checkout.
“Our research shows the vast majority of
Australians want this annoying bugbear off their backs for good,” she said.
Banks and other payment systems backed the changes because they kept pace with the reality of the modern-day transaction.
“It makes sense that consumers know the final price before they get to the checkout,” an Australian Banking Association spokesperson said.
“Banks will work with the government to provide Australians with more certainty and transparency on the costs of digital payments.”
RBA governor Michele Bullock said consumers and businesses would benefit as fewer and fewer Australians made cash payments.
“The time has come to address some of these high costs and inefficiencies in the system,” she said.
Lowering the cap on interchange fees by businesses is predicted to benefit small businesses the most, because they often pay higher fees.
The central bank found small businesses would be $185 million better off under the changes, with 90 per cent of them benefiting.
Better transparency achieved by forcing card networks and large acquirers to publish what fees they are charging has also been recommended to foster competition between networks.
Any changes won’t kick in until July 2026.
“Women and children are disproportionately affected by homelessness brought on by threats to their physical and psychological
safety,” Ms Di Natale said. “We must improve our systems to protect them.”
Women, young people and children fleeing family violence face a 19-month wait for accommodation. (AAP Image/Diego Fedele)
The Reserve Bank has recommended surcharge fees on debit and credit cards be scrapped. (Pixabay)
Platypus net deaths spark wave of anger
By Oliver Winn
An illegal fishing trap has killed three platypuses in Yarra Junction which has sparked outrage and concern amid recent fisheries officer cuts.
Two dead adult male platypuses were found in the Little Yarra River by a Yarra Ranges Council staff member on 11 July and a member of the public reported a third dead platypus the previous day.
A council spokesperson condemned the use of opera house nets, which trap platypuses from resurfacing once they’ve entered it.
“Anyone fishing in Victorian rivers or streams must comply with laws about equipment, such as the ban on enclosed fishing nets, such as opera house nets.
“These nets can indiscriminately kill wildlife, such as platypuses, and it’s extremely disappointing that people continue to do the wrong thing, almost 10 years after the ban came into effect,” a council spokesperson said.
The disappointment was echoed by the director of Australian Platypus Conservancy Geoff Williams.
“It is of great concern that some people still seem to have not got the message. It is even more worrying that, having killed a platypus one day, the same person would come back and kill two more the next,” Mr Williams said.
But the death of the platypuses have been seen as a consequence of cuts to just under half of fisheries officers by the Allan Labor Government earlier this year.
Victorian National Parks Association (VNPA) parks and nature campaigner Jordan Crook said it was heartwrenching to witness the damage caused by a lack of enforcement.
“There’s less regulators on the beat making sure traps like this don’t get set and encouraging folks to use traps that are safe for platypus while also still being able to catch yabbies,” Mr Crook said.
The Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) reduced its overall staffing by 50 per cent and slashed the number of compliance officers across the state from 73 to 35 in June.
But, VFA chief executive officer Travis Dowling disagreed that the cuts would result in an uptick of illegal fishing behaviour.
“There has been a heightened focus on people’s offending because of the fact we’ve gone through a restructure within the organisation, but there is no evidence to suggest that offending has increased,” Mr Dowling said in an ABC article.
Opera house nets were banned in July 2019 due to a large amount of platypuses and rakali being killed in the traps.
Mr Crook also stressed the importance of educating the public on what fishing equipment is legal and said there were plenty of other legal alternatives to opera house nets.
“There are other nets out there that do the same job in collecting yabbies but won’t have the potential to kill the platypus and the water
rats,” Mr Crook said.
Fishers can ensure their equipment is legal by checking the VFA website at vfa.vic.gov. au or getting a free recreational fishing guide from a local tackle shop.
Wildlife-friendly open top lift nets help reduce the risk to turtles, platypus and rakali and are widely available from tackle shops and outdoor retailers.
A Conservation Regulator spokesperson said it was seeking information surrounding the incident.
“Illegally set nets and traps in Victorian waterways are a threat to native wildlife includ-
ing turtles, platypus and rakali. These animals are vulnerable to unattended traps and nets due to their underwater foraging behaviour, causing them to unknowingly enter traps which prevent them from escaping.”
In May the Star Mail reported on a dead platypus killed by an abandoned hoop nest in the Yarra River in East Warburton.
If you see or suspect illegal fishing, including the use of illegal or abandoned nets, please call 13FISH (133474), while anyone with information relating to this specific incident should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
IN BRIEF
School zones return for Term Three Drivers on the road in the mornings and afternoons are urged to take care as school zone speed limits are in place again this week as Term Three of the school year commenced Monday 21 July.
Drivers are reminded to be patient around school zones as speed limits return and there is an expected increase in road, pedestrian and bicycle traffic at drop-off and pick-up times.
Some school speed zones are permanent, while others operate from 8am to 9.30am, and from 2.30pm to 4pm on weekdays, with reduced speeds of 40km/h or 60km/h in school zones until the end of the school term.
Yarra Junction Police are seeking the public’s assistance to identify the two males depicted in the below CCTV footage.
These males are believed to be responsible for a burglary committed at Yarra Junction on 1 June at approximately 2.30pm.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Yarra Junction Police Station on (03) 5967 1104 or Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.
Reference 250416449.
Fire services warn of deadly cigarette fire risk
Victoria’s fire services are issuing a strong warning about the serious risks of smoking indoors, as it remains the leading cause of fatal house fires across the state.
Half of the 18 fatal fires in Victoria in 2024 were attributed to discarded cigarettes and smoking materials, such as lighters, matches, or open flames, while smokers remain over-represented in residential fire fatalities.
Smoking in bed is the leading cause of smoking-related fire deaths, as falling asleep with a lit cigarette in hand can easily set fire to soft materials such as bed linen.
In addition to the fire fatality figures, more than 10 per cent of residential structure fires that Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) responded to between May 2024 and March 2025 were caused by smoking materials.
In May this year FRV also responded to two significant house fires in Melbourne within days of each other caused by cigarettes. On 6 May, a brick unit in Moorabbin was destroyed by a fire originating from an incorrectly extinguished cigarette, with an elderly resident in a neighbouring property assisted to safety after their house was affected by smoke.
Victorian fire services recommend:
■ If you can, smoke outside the home in a single location.
■ If smoking occurs in the home, there should be a smoke alarm in every room.
■ Never smoke in bed.
■ Don’t smoke when affected by alcohol, drugs or medications that may cause drowsiness.
■ Use heavy, high-sided, non-combustible ashtrays to dispose of cigarette butts. Pour some water on the ash and butts to make sure they’re out.
■ ‘Stick it don’t flick it’ – never flick cigarette butts, either inside or outside.
■ Never leave a lit cigarette unattended and butt out your cigarette before you walk away.
■ Keep matches and cigarette lighters out of reach of children.
Two dead platypus found in an illegal fishing net in Yarra Junction. (Australian Platypus Conservancy)
Uber Eats delivers questions
By Dongyun Kwon
A local business shared the pros and cons of the Uber Eats service after two weeks of rollout in two towns in the Yarra Valley.
Uber Eats is an online food ordering and delivery platform.
HealesvilleandYarraGlenwerenamedamong the 15 new towns added on the Uber Eats map.
The company tries to expand its service to the broader cities, towns and communities across Australia, aiming to boost local economies, strengthen communities and make everyday convenience more accessible no matter where Australians live.
An Uber spokesperson said through the conversations in the community, they’ve seen strong enthusiasm from local restaurants and retailers eager to expand their reach, as well as from residents interested in flexible earning opportunities.
“Online food delivery is creating new opportunities and adding value for small businesses, workers and consumers in connected communities,” they said.
“Our recent Restaurant Pulse Check report shows that the vast majority (96 per cent) of restaurants surveyed who use online food delivery boosted their revenue over the past 12 months.
“Our services in the Yarra Glen and Healesville are live from (Thursday 3 July), with many local favourites now available to order from at the tap of a button.”
Uber Eats aims to support the local economy by creating flexible job opportunities, such as delivery driver roles, helping restaurants reach broader communities and offering convenience and choice to consumers.
Despite Uber Eats’ aim of supporting the local economy, a Healesville-based restaurant is concerned about the impact, while it is still happy to give it a try.
Monroe’s Burgers and Beers has been operating since 2016, located on the main street of Healesville.
The co-owner of the restaurant, Paul Stephens, said he’s worried about Uber Eats’ commission structure.
“From our perspective as an established business, we do our own delivery, and we built that without the complexities of dealing with a third-party delivery partner like Uber Eats,” he said.
“Their standard business model of taking a 33 per cent commission of sales is probably something that’s not really sustainable for hospitality in general and small businesses. I’m pretty sure all the restaurants that are on the platform locally have been given introductory promotions and offers that are quite a lot better than what they would typically roll out when they’re doing expansion in urban areas.
“The offers that they have provided to the local businesses in the area are significantly more competitive than their standard 33 per cent, but ultimately, they’ve made it clear that they’re just introductory offers, and it’s going to be the same in the long term.”
According to Mr Stephens’ claim, the local businesses experienced difficulty finding a delivery driver for the orders they received through Uber Eats.
“So in those cases, the customer actually end-
ed up coming and picking it up even though they paid a delivery fee and we’ve made a delivery commission,” Mr Stephens said.
“That’s been something I’ve heard replicated a little bit through some of the local businesses.”
Despite the concerns, Monroe’s Burgers and Beers was happy to give it a shot to find out what works out and what the challenges are.
Mr Stephens said one of the positive opportunities that Uber Eats offers to local businesses is allowing them to deliver to areas that they can’t currently serve.
“For example, we can’t justify sending one of our drivers out to Yarra Glen or Woori Yallock because then they have to do a whole return trip to Healesville and we would lose a driver for far too long,” he said.
“Whereas if an Uber Eats driver could pick
up food from us, deliver it to a customer in Yarra Glen, and then pick up another food from Yarra Glen and deliver that to a customer in Healesville, I think that is something that would be popular with consumers because when you’re a little bit isolated out here, you definitely get pretty excited about being able to get food that’s a bit different to the same restaurants regularly dining from.
“The added context around this is that the delivery to other areas like Yarra Glen has been mentioned as a possibility by Uber Eats, but is not yet actually available, so any benefits are purely hypothetical at this point.”
Regardless of all pros and cons surrounding the Uber Eats service, Mr Stephens is encouraging community members to support local restaurants by ordering directly from them, not through
the third party.
“Any of the restaurants that I’ve looked at, including ourselves, (it’s cheaper to order directly on their website). It’s passed on to customers in the form of higher pricing,” he said.
“If you want to order directly on our website or call us at the store, the price per item in our case is between 10 and 15 per cent less than what you would pay if you’re ordering on Uber Eats.
“So the main message from us to our customers and people in general is support your favourite local businesses by ordering directly from them and save money. It helps all small businesses because money stays in the local economy rather than going to big multinational corporations.”
Star Mail contacted two more local businesses.
Healesville and Yarra Glen were named for the 15 new towns added on the Uber Eats map. (Supplied)
Poisoned birds investigated
By Dongyun Kwon
A local wildlife health centre once again played a key role in the investigation of wild bird carcasses in Melbourne’s southeast suburb.
About 400 corellas, pigeons and doves were found dead in Springvale South between 12 and 14 July.
Testing by Agriculture Victoria has ruled out high pathogenicity avian influenza H5N1 as the cause of death.
The Conservation Regulator continues to investigate the potential cause of the deaths.
While testing has now excluded avian influenza, a conclusive cause of the deaths has not been determined with poisoning still suspected. Toxin testing is underway.
Michele Phillips from South Oakleigh Wildlife Shelter said she and her friends found over 400 poisoned birds.
“We found them down at Athol Road, Springvale (South). We’ve got a call there, ‘Birds are falling from the sky.’,” she said.
“We picked up 250 corellas (on Sunday), and probably another 60 pigeons and doves. And we picked up 40 (on Monday morning).”
Ms Phillips and her friends handed about half of the deceased and sick birds over to the Healesville Sanctuary for necropsies.
Healesville Sanctuary confirmed eight little corellas were taken to Healesville Sanctuary’s Australian Wildlife Health Centre (AWHC) on Sunday 13 July.
“Sadly, one corella did not survive the night. The other seven are in stable condition in the intensive care unit and are being monitored,” a Zoos Victoria spokesperson said.
“In addition, 145 dead birds were presented for necropsy including little corellas, long-billed corellas, domestic pigeons, crested pigeons and a spotted dove.
“Necropsies have taken place as part of our standard process with samples collected and the AWHC is supporting the Conservation Regulator.”
Agriculture Victoria and the Conservation Regulator also confirmed they were notified of the deaths by the owner of a wildlife shelter on Sunday.
“While the H5N1 strain of avian influenza is not in Australia, reporting will be key to early detection and following any reports, we will evaluate the need for diagnostic testing or other investigation,” an Agriculture Victoria spokesperson said in a statement.
Conservation Regulator does not grant Authorities to Control Wildlife allowing the use of poisoning as a control method, and has not issued an Authority to Control Wildlife for corellas in this area.
Corellas are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975, and there are significant penalties for hunting, taking or destroying protected wildlife, including imprisonment.
When you find sick or dead wild birds or wildlife, please follow the following instructions:
- Avoid contact with sick or dead wild birds or wildlife and their environment.
- Record what you see to Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) by using the form at the following website, forms.bio.vic.gov.au/wildlife-influenza-investigation, or by calling 136 186, in line with the guidance below.
- Report clusters of five or more sick or dead wild birds of any species, anywhere in Victoria.
- Report even one sick or dead penguin or pelican, sick or dead bird of prey such as hawks, owls, eagles, sick or dead black swan, sick or dead marine mammal such as seals, sea lions, or dolphins.
Following a report, DEECA will evaluate the need for diagnostic testing for further investigation.
Additional dead birds (one long-billed corella and some non-native pigeons) were found at Norine Cox Reserve, Dandenong on 17 of July. The birds have been collected.
Vapes war not over despite falling rates among youth
By Sebastian Tan, AAP
Shifting social norms are slowing the number of young people being hooked on vapes, but Australia isn’t out of the woods yet, an expert has warned.
A survey of almost 15,000 14 to 17-year olds found the number of teens vaping fell from 18 to 15 per cent since February 2023.
The report released by the Cancer Council’s Generation Vape Project on Wednesday 16 July found rates of e-cigarettes among 30 to-59-year-olds have halved, while fewer than one-in-five 18 to 24-year-olds used vapes.
But despite the lowering rates, Cancer Council chair Alecia Brooks said the work to reduce smoking rates were far from over.
“What this data shows us is that we can’t really be complacent around this, we have to keep the pressure on,” she told AAP.
“People should not be able to make a profit off somebody else’s health.”
Vape shops and tobacconists are leading a rise in black market sales of vapes, Ms Brooks said.
The report found the number of vapes being bought by young people at stores surged to almost 35 per cent of all sales.
This is despite laws only allowing vapes to be sold in pharmacies.
But the number of people vaping is shrinking and one reason is because of social media, according the report.
What was once a place that painted a fantastical snapshot of the flavoured air devices now is exposing less of the products online.
Feelings of shame and embarrassment are poignant and the term “vaper” has became increasingly stigmatised, the report said.
The report’s chief investigator Becky Freeman said young people were realising the “harm it’s doing to their wellbeing”, which had led to a decline in vaping rates.
Health Minister Mark Butler said education and prevention campaigns also helped
deter people from taking up vaping or smoking.
“Vaping rates for young Australians have now turned the corner,” he said.
“It may take time to see a big decrease in vaping and smoking, but we are here for the long haul for a healthier Australia.”
The Australian Border Force and the Therapeutic Goods Administration have also seized almost $500 billion worth of illicit vapes since January 2024.
Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death in Australia and is estimated to kill more than 24,000 Australians each year.
“I just wish people would stop feeding birds. Birds get reliant on it, and it encourages people that don’t like them to poison them,” Ms Phillips said.
Feeding wild birds can promote the spread of disease.
The Conservation Regulator is appealing to the public for information on the suspected poisoning.
“It’s illegal and dangerous to poison wildlife, and we’re calling on the community to come forward with any information they might have that will help us to track down whoever is responsible,” a Conservation Regulator spokesperson said.
Should people have any information regarding this event please contact DEECA via 136 186 or make an anonymous report via Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au
About 400 corellas, pigeons and doves were found dead in Springvale South between 12 and 14 July. (Supplied)
Agriculture Victoria and the Conservation Regulator are now investigating the cause of death. (Supplied)
Pensioner push for change
By Callum Ludwig
An outer east resident is leading the push to reform the Work Bonus system for pensioners looking to continue working.
The Work Bonus was first introduced in 2009 and aims to help pensioners reduce the amount of any employment income that counts towards the income test to their pension by adding it to a Work Bonus balance.
Initially set at 50 per cent of the first $500 or less of income, it was simplified to the first $250 in 2011, and a concession bank was introduced and it took until 2019 for the threshold to be increased to the current $300 and self-employment to count as ‘gainful income’.
As a result, a single pensioner could currently receive a total of $518 (adding current income free area for age pension of $218) income a fortnight and receive the maximum age pension rate, with anything over reduced by every 50 cents in the dollar. For couples, this is a $680 combined income threshold and is reduced by 25 cents in every dollar over that.
Ferntree Gully resident Greg Jarvis has formed the Fair Go for Working Pensioners movement and said the goal is to increase the Work Bonus to $500 and index it alongside the age pension itself, which he believes will save the government money and increase employment participation among pensioners who wish to work.
“These days ($300 a fortnight) is three quarters to seven eighths of bugger all, anything over $300, your pension is reduced by 50 cents in the dollar… the incentive for someone on a pension to go out and work is just eroded, this $300 isn’t indexed, and it hasn’t changed since July 2019,” he said.
“What we’re aiming to do is get it indexed, to get a price increase to catch up a bit, so that it will improve the participation rates and now if we improve the participation rates to pre-Covid levels, according to my figures and modelling and everything, though I’m not an accountant or a politician, it could generate $200 million nationally every year,”
“If the $500 threshold is enough to regain pre-Covid participation, which I’m not sure if it is, I don’t know what that figure will be, but there’s got to be a sweet spot there somewhere that can increase the participation rate, you’re going to decrease the welfare bill for pension and increase PAYG tax and GST revenue because of additional spending and the like.”
Mr Jarvis’s calculations can be found on the ‘Information’ page of his workingpensioners. com.au website and used a scenario where either an individual in a couple or a single pensioner was working an average of 16 hours a week, 48 weeks a year and earning $40 per hour.
A Department of Social Services (DSS) spokesperson said the Work Bonus benefits Age Pensioners who can and want to work, by disregarding the first $300 of employment income a fortnight from the income test.
“Work Bonus operates in addition to the fortnightly income free area of $218 for a single pensioner or $380 for a pensioner couple, the income free area is indexed each year on 1 July to increases in the Consumer Price Index, allowing pensioners to earn more before their pension is affected,” they said.
“Pensioners are able to build up any unused amount of the $300 in a Work Bonus income bank, up to a maximum amount of $11,800,”
“From 1 January 2024, permanent changes were made to provide all new pension entrants of Age Pension age with a $4,000 Work Bonus starting balance, allowing pensioners to have an extra $4,000 of employment income disregarded from the income test from the start, rather than accumulating these credits over time.”
The 2024 reforms also made the $11,800 maximum balance permanent for all new and existing recipients.
Mr Jarvis said himself and other supporters put a petition to the House of Representatives in mid-2024, but felt the responses so far have mainly stated what the current situation is without addressing the issue.
“You can tell it’s pretty much a cut and paste because you get different responses from different departments with the same phrases, the same attitudes,” he said.
“Currently, I’m just trying to get numbers together so we’ve developed the obligatory website and there’s a section on there where
people can fill in their postcode, name, email and register their support, their details aren’t listed on a public list, but it’s their first name and suburb basically and an email is also sent to their local MP,”
“We’re in the throes of trying to get numbers because obviously one voice doesn’t go anywhere.”
There are other potential offsets for elderly Australians that can be accessed:
The Senior Australians and Pensioners Tax Offset (SAPTO) is available both pensioners as well as people of pension age who also meet the Age Pension residency criteria. In the last financial year, the SAPTO was worth a maximum of $2,230 for a single senior and $1,602 for each member of a senior couple.
This is on top of the statutory tax-free threshold and the low income tax offset (LITO), where eligible senior Australians with incomes up to $35,813 (or $31,888 for each member of a couple) pay no income tax in 2024-25 while single senior Australians with incomes up to $43,020 paid no Medicare levy.
Comparatively, most single people below pension age had to start to pay income tax once their annual taxable income exceeds $22,575 and the Medicare levy once their income exceeds $27,222 in the same year.
Mr Jarvis said he works part-time and when he explains his thought process, the common response is that he’s told to work for ‘cashies’, or undeclared income paid in cash.
“That leaves the employer and the employee open for you know litigation and the like but I think a lot of people are heading that way, to avoid your pension deductions and taxation and all that because it’s just not worth working,” he said.
“My personal situation is that I need to work financially to maintain my lifestyle and that’s my choice, I could probably get away
with not working but if you go into retirement and not everybody has the funds to be self-funded, especially when you think about when the retirees of today who started work there was no such thing as the superannuation guarantee,”
“Since 2009, Australian wages have gone up 64-65 per cent, the inflation has been 50 per cent and the work bonus has gone up 20 per cent.”
Mr Jarvis believes an increase to the Work Bonus threshold could help boost participation rates in the workforce among pensioners, particularly in industries with high demand.
When the Work Bonus was last boosted in June 2019, 4.29 per cent of aged pensioners reported earnings according to DSS data, which is down to 3.48 per cent as of the most recent figures in March 2025.
Mr Jarvis said there a lot of industries, like his own in truck-driving, that are screaming out for employees.
“Hospitals are screaming out for nurses, there’s a lot of industries like catering, for instance, where they’re having difficulty finding people to work and there’s a dormant workforce out there of experienced qualified people that are just sitting at home,” he said.
“The workforce skill shortage could be alleviated a little bit through one or two or three days a week rather than full time, because us old buggers might have a bit of difficulty with five or six days,”
“As far as the individual goes, activity’s a good thing for your mind and body and if you’ve got, got something to get up for in the morning, that’s probably a healthy thing and that is one thing that even in the responses from government departments,they acknowledge the benefits, financially and socially, of pensioners working.”
You can register support for Mr Jarvis’ cause at workingpensioners.com.au/register-support/
An Outer East resident wants to see the Work Bonus system for pensioners reformed. (Jane Dempster/AAP)
Mr Jarvis said the work bonus has only gone up 20 per cent since 2009 compared to wages and inflation. (Shutterstock)
Gambling costs ballooning
By Callum Ludwig
A study released last month by the Victorian Government has revealed the shocking impact gambling has on the state’s population just a year.
The ‘Social costs of gambling to Victoria 2023’ report estimated that gambling resulted in loss of $14.1 billion in Victoria in 2022-23, consisting of both tangible (eg: financial losses) or intangible (eg: detriment to personal relationships) costs.
Executive Clinical Director of Turning Point and Professor of Addiction Studies and Services at Monash University Professor Dan Lubman AM said this shocking $14.1 billion figure tells us we’re falling a long way short when it comes to protecting people from gambling harm.
“Gambling is an inherently risky activity and gambling harms don’t discriminate - they affect people across all backgrounds, ages, and income levels. This isn’t just about money. Behind these figures are real people and families experiencing serious harm,” he said.
“Fewer people are gambling but they’re losing more than ever. And many are losing their lives – every year 25 Victorians die by suicide as a result of gambling harms.”
EACH is responsible for running the free local Gambler’s Help services for the Outer East, with locations in Healesville, Yarra Junction, Lilydale, Boronia, Ringwood, Box Hill and Glen Waverley.
EACH Gamblers Help Therapeutic Counsellor Diana Casis said unfortunately, the figure is not surprising to them, though disheartening and very disappointing.
“Gambling harm can really impact our clients in every area of their lives if we think about it, for example emotionally, financially, socially, and often lowering their self-confidence and isolating them from others,” she said.
“This can create a lot of shame and isolation with clients often not wanting to discuss it further with their wider community due to the stigma, so we notice that it can become a cycle that is really hard to break free of by yourself without help.”
The last report for 2014-15 estimated a social cost of $7 billion, which accounting for inflation and population growth, would be $10.5 billion, still $3.6 billion short of the 2023 estimate.
The study’s authors hypothesise that this mainly reflects an increase in spending from people at risk of gambling harm rather than those who gamble without experiencing gambling harm.
Prof Lubman said while most Victorians play lotteries and scratchies, these account for just 10 per cent of losses, with poker machines and sports betting generating over 80 per cent of losses from far fewer people.
“The cost of living crisis has also meant that some people have been able to reduce gambling as non-essential spending, but for others, financial pressure and uncertainty actually drive them toward gambling hoping to improve their situation, only to face greater harm,” he said “Meanwhile, gambling advertising is everywhere - on TV, radio, and our phones. Victoria has nearly 1000 gambling ads daily, and online gambling is growing fastest of all,”
“We’re seeing particularly alarming trends among young men who can now gamble anytime, anywhere on their phones.”
A study released last month has estimated Victoria’s social cost of gambling hit $14.1 billion in 2022-23. (Tracey Nearmy/AAP.)
The study estimated the following costs caused by gambling:
$5.2 billion on financial impacts, such as higher-than-average spending and bankruptcy.
$3.3 billion towards emotional and psychological harm, such as depression, suicide attempts and fatalities of people who gamble.
$2.5 billion on impacts to relationships and family such as divorce or separation, violence and the impact of suicide on loved ones.
$1.5 billion on lost productivity or impacted work or study such as impaired performance, job loss and absenteeism.
$1.3 billion in costs to the state and local governments such as their health, mental health and human services systems, policy, regulation, and research costs.
$289.4 million related to crime, including costs to corrections, court and police systems.
$3.2 million of costs to non-profit organisations.
$1.5 million in costs to the federal government.
Ms Casis said there possibly needs to be a lot more compassion and understanding around addiction not being something that someone
just chooses to have or to do.
“The pervasive nature and the amount of pokies venues in our local communities, for an example, can continue to normalise and perpetuate gambling harm in the community, the fact that there is multiple pokies venues in almost every suburb is quite problematic,” she said.
“The fact that there are a thousand gambling ads on TV and radio per day continues to normalise the really harmful narrative that gambling is part of our Aussie culture,”
“Even if we talk about gambling-like elements in games targeted at really young kids as well, as young as eight years old or younger, this is really hugely problematic and continues the cycle of normalising gambling, which we see is a big problem with our clients.”
Financial impacts saw the biggest rise from the 2014-15 study, up from $2.0 billion (adjusted for inflation and population growth) with the vast majority of this cost ($4.8 billion) attributed to excess spending by people who gamble.
Prof Lubman said given the wide-ranging social costs revealed in this study, addressing gambling addiction is absolutely critical, with harms devastating entire families and communities.
“While it’s positive that the Victorian Government has committed to important reforms like mandatory carded gambling, we need these implemented quickly and we need to go much further with both state and national reforms,” he said.
“We need a total ban on gambling advertising, as well as the introduction of mandatory pre-commitment, and maximum loss limits. Most importantly, the industry profiting from this harm must be held accountable through a legislated duty of care that requires them to actively protect people experiencing gambling harm,”
“This is ultimately about the kind of community we want to be. We aspire to be a society where everyone is valued and supported, especially when they’re struggling.”
For support with gambling harm, Gambling Help Online offers a number of different support options, from helplines to counselling, financial counselling, email support, SMS support and online forums.
Support is available on their website - gamblinghelponline.org.au - or via their 24/7 helpline on 1800 858 858.
Counts
Training hard for stair climb
By
Up on the Mount Donna Buang Observation Tower, a line of CFA members slowly ascend the metal stairs. The icy wind whistles around them, interrupted only by the sounds of exhaustion. Oxygen tanks weigh them down like shackles, and their strained breath fog up their face masks. Worked to the bone, the firefighters continue their ascent.
It’s an early Saturday morning, though the firefighters aren’t turning out to a tower top blaze - they’re training for the annual Melbourne Firefighters Stair Climb (MFSC).
The MFSC sees firefighters climbing 28 floors of the Crown Metropol in Melbourne under 25 kilograms of turnout gear, with some even taking on the extra challenge of using breathing apparatus (BA) during the climb.
The event will take place on 6 September and will raise funds for the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation, Lifeline and the 000 Foundation.
Every Saturday, the Wesburn/Millgrove and Warburton CFAs climb the Observation Tower with 25 kilograms of gear on their backs to prepare for the climb.
In his 11th year taking part in the MFSC, Wesburn/Millgrove CFA member Tony Lewis has said he was motivated by the potential to save lives.
“It’s knowing that we are supporting people in need… if we can save one life then it’s a win for us all.
“We’re all wanting to make the world a better place,” Mr Lewis said.
The MFSC’s fundraising goal this year is $1 million which will be split between Lifeline, Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation and 000 Foundation.
With $400,000 slotted towards Lifeline this year, MFSC event director Chris May said the money could fund an estimated 10,000 phone calls to those in need.
“It costs $39 to train someone to answer a phone call at lifeline… we’re looking to essentially donate around $400,000 to lifeline… that’s 10,000 phone calls answered in Victoria,” Mr May said.
Another $400,000 will go towards the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation and the remaining amount towards the 000 Foundation.
While $400,000 was a “drop in the ocean” when it came to cancer research, Mr May said “every single dollar” goes towards cancer treatment.
The MFSC originally began as a tribute toward the Memorial Firefighter Stair Climb, which honoured the sacrifice of 343 firefighters who lost their lives during the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks in America.
The MFSC has evolved since then, becoming a national fundraiser for Australian emergency service personnel with just under 1000 climbers participating this year.
“It is partly a memorial climb, but also it is a large scale fundraising climb now, so it’s kind of evolved over the years,” Mr May said.
Last year’s MFSC raised just under $800,000 which smashed its overall goal of $750,000.
For Mr Lewis, the 10 minute struggle of the climb didn’t compare to the physical and mental health battles endured by those who would benefit from the work of Lifeline, 000 Foundation and Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation.
“The older you get, the more difficult it gets. Even though we all train like crazy, it gets more
This year, it’s raised $410,000 so far - donations can be made here: firefighterclimb.org.au/ donations/donate/
difficult every year. But it’s a motivation just to get to that finish line.
“And knowing that our 5, ten minute struggle, working hard to get to the top of the Metropol, it’s nothing in comparison to what people are going through mentally and physically because of their mental health struggles and the people that are receiving care for their cancer,” Mr Lewis said.
His goal for this year is to raise $1000, though
increased cost of living has thrown a spanner in the works.
“We’re all finding that it’s more difficult this year, obviously… but we’re all trying extremely hard to raise the most money that we can.”
But, Mr Lewis wouldn’t be too disappointed if he didn’t hit his $1000 target.
“Everything counts. If we can save that one life, then that’s amazing,” Mr Lewis said.
Healesville firefighters join the challenge for a good cause
By Dongyun Kwon
Healesville Fire Brigade volunteers will run up the 28 floors in September for a cause.
The annual Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb (MFSC) will be held on Saturday 6 September at the Crown Metropol to raise vital funds for cancer research and crisis support.
Three local firefighters decided to participate in the 12th annual event to support the cause.
Healesville CFA communications officer Zach Kennedy, who joined the brigade in early 2023, said this is his first time participating in the MFSC.
“I decided to sign up to challenge myself and represent the Healesville Fire Brigade,” he said.
“I run frequently, and for the purpose of the stair climb, I will increase the intensity and challenge as we get closer to the event by running up hills and stairs with a weighted pack.
“I would be grateful for any donations made in my name on the MFSC website to help fight cancer, depression and suicide. $1000 would be an amazing achievement.”
Firefighters and emergency services personnel will battle 28 floors in up to 25kg of turn-
out gear and breathing apparatus, or similarly weighted operational equipment of their emergency service as a symbol of the burden of significant health and well-being issues faced by first responders and their families on a daily basis.
Some will also be breathing on air through a self contained breathing apparatus adding an extra level of difficulty to their climb.
Fourth lieutenant Finn Deacey, joined CFA in 2019 and transferred to Healesville in 2021, said he joined in the event in 2022 and 2024, which he really enjoyed.
“I look forward to the day, it’s a fantastic but challenging event to participate in with all funds going to a really deserving cause,” he said.
“I have been hitting the gym hard almost every day and gradually increasing my exertion.
“Any amount (of donations) would be fantastic, however, I would love to raise $1000 for the beneficiaries who do an absolute power of work in the background to support first responders.”
Alex Gommers has been volunteering as a firefighter with the Healesville CFA for the past two years.
Mr Gommers said he’s excited to take part,
represent his brigade and raise money for a cause that matters.
“This is my first time. I’m really keen to give it a go and represent Healesville while raising money for a great cause. I’ve always loved a physical challenge, so this felt like the perfect challenge to take on,” he said.
“I’ll be walking 800km across Spain on the Camino De Santiago in the month prior, so that should be pretty good preparation.
“I’d love to raise $500 but of course, the more support, the better.”
All donations will go towards Lifeline, Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation and 000Foundation.
“My mates Alex Gommers and Finn Deacey are participating in the event alongside me, as well as our firefighting colleagues Sally Ann, Joey Slootman and Amanda Redwood from Badger Creek Fire Brigade,” Mr Kennedy said.
“Donations can be made on the MFSC website in any of our names for this great cause.”
To support local firefighters’ journey for the cause, please visit the following website, firefighterclimb.org.au/station/cfa/healesville/
The Wesburn/Millgrove and Warburton CFAs train every Saturday for the MFSC. (Supplied)
L-R: CFA members Tony Lewis, Troy Morton-Thick, Andre Araujo, Peter Shotter and Becy Miller. (Supplied)
Oliver Winn
L-R: Zach Kennedy, Finn Deacey and Alex Gommers. (Supplied)
Eco Warriors build bridges
Wildlife rope bridges crafted at the Yarra Junction Library on 8 July will allow local fauna to move safely through their habitats.
Eco Warriors Australia (EWA) hosted the bridge making workshop at the library which saw participants of all ages join in to support local wildlife.
EWA project manager Fiona Deppeler said the workshops went well, with 20 participants taking part.
“We had lots of fun and everyone was enthusiastic and keen to help our local wildlife, which is amazing.
“Community members used a simple technique to construct flat rope bridges made from sisal rope. We will take these bridges and install them in storm damaged areas in the Yarra Ranges National Park later this year,” she said.
The bridges would restore connectivity between habitats, allowing wildlife to travel between them in upper canopy areas affected by the June 2021 storms.
Wildlife that may use the bridges include Kreft’s glider, feathertail gliders, eastern ringtail possums, brushtail possums and a range of bird species, as well as threatened wildlife like the southern greater glider, Leadbeater’s possum and easter pygmy possum.
The Leadbeater’s possum is critically endangered due to habitat loss, as they rely on specific habitats to survive.
EWA is a not-for-profit organisation and the event was funded by the Victorian Landcare Grants and Parks Victoria Yarra Junction Library children’s services officer Rachael Falls said people young and old took part in the session.
“We had a good mix of families and also some older couples that came along, as we had it as an open age event to try and encourage as many people as possible to come and participate,” she said.
The session kicked off with EWA members explaining why they were running the project and how it would benefit the local wildlife.
Then the EWA members conducted demonstrations of how to use the rope to create the bridges before participants had a shot themselves.
Ms Deppeler said the workshop helped the community understand how they can help out the environment.
“We feel that our wildlife rope bridge project really gives people a sense of how their actions can directly contribute to protect local wildlife,” Ms Deppeler said.
The EWA will host more workshops in the Yarra Ranges in September during the school holidays.
It’s not the first time the Yarra Junction Library has hosted one of EWA’s rope bridge making events, with sessions being held in the school holidays in the past.
Ms Falls said the workshop not only helped contribute to a good cause, but it also was a way for the community to get together and connect.
“I think it’s really important because being a bit of a smaller town there isn’t that many opportunities in the area for people to do such events.
“We do try and have a wide range of activities to help capture different interests so that people can participate in different activities,” Ms Falls said.
Yering Primary School joins Water Watchers program
Primary school students across the Melbourne’s north and east are learning about the importance of saving water, with Yarra Valley Water’s fast-growing Water Watchers education program.
Led by expert facilitators, the school incursions feature fun, interactive activities that teach students where water comes from, why it matters and how they can help to save it.
Since launching in 2022, the program has reached 250 primary schools, more than half of those in Yarra Valley Water’s service area, with many more still to come.
Yarra Valley Water Managing Director Natalie Foeng said the program was an effective way of teaching students how to sustainably manage water.
“The Water Watchers program introduces water saving messages with the help of fun intergalactic aliens. It’s helping raise a generation of students who understand what a precious resource water is, and know how to use it wisely,” she said.
“It has been great to see how eager schools have been to embrace the incursions. We couldn’t have achieved these results without their support.”
Yering Primary School was one of the most recent schools where an incursion was held.
Teacher Brenda Bailey said the Water Watchers visit had been a valuable experience for the students.
“We were pleased to have the program come to our school,” she said.
“The students were really engaged. There were a lot of activities and the instructor did a great job of getting the students to discuss water and different ways of saving it.”
Ms Foeng encouraged other schools in the Yarra Valley Water region to join the program.
“We have now reached over 40,000 students through the program and we’re keen to reach even more, with feedback from participating schools being overwhelmingly positive,” she said.
“With hotter, drier weather and a growing population putting pressure on our water supplies, it’s important to teach children water-saving habits now to conserve water into the future.”
Teachers in the Yarra Valley Water service area can book an incursion and find out more at: yvw. com.au/water-watchers-education
Choir sings out for members
By Dongyun Kwon
After the huge success of the 10th anniversary concert last year, Badger Creek Women’s Choir (BCWC) is now getting back to set for this year’s concert.
The BCWC is a community choir where all members sing a mix of modern styles of music like rock, pop, funk, soul and Celtic music while making new friends.
Choir director Jenny Legg said the BCWC is now in its 11th year, and it is a social choir where all women are welcome to join.
“We get together and really enjoy singing and having a laugh, and we have a little supper each rehearsal night,” she said.
“We do a lot of community performances. Our biggest performance each year is the annual concert, which is usually held in November at the Healesville Memorial Hall.
“Thanks to the generosity of Yarra Ranges Council, we are supported to have that wonderful venue to put on a free community concert. We hire a full band of some of Melbourne’s finest musicians to perform at that concert, and we provide a lovely supper for
people who come along.”
The 10th anniversary concert last year was fully booked and enjoyed by everyone who attended.
This year, the annual concert will be held at 7pm on Saturday 8 November.
“We are doing some Stevie Wonder, Coldplay, Beatles, blues, Neil Young, and there’ll be some solos as well,” Ms Legg said.
Rehearsals for the next concert will begin on 30 July.
“We would love to have people join our rehearsals if they would like to,” the choir director said.
“We rehearse from 7pm to 9pm each Wednesday night at the Healesville Memorial Hall.
“Later in the year, we’ve been invited to sing at Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley for a carols event, so people can also join us for that as well.”
Any local woman who wishes to join the choir is encouraged to contact Ms Legg via the Badger Creek Women’s Choir Facebook page or email at badgercreekwomenschoir@gmail
Two participants craft rope bridges together. (Supplied)
The Water Watchers program has been adopted by hundreds of schools in the Yarra Valley Water catchment. (Supplied)
Badger Creek Women’s Choir is inviting local women to join rehearsals for its annual concert.
(Michael Emmet)
Community radio connects
By Dongyun Kwon
Alan Collier has been involved with the local radio station for about 17 years.
Mr Collier is a good example of how Yarra Valley FM can produce veteran radio presenters through its training program and the opportunities it provides.
The Yarra Valley FM product hosts three radio programs at Yarra Valley FM: Music, Memories and More between 12pm and 3pm every second Sunday, The Rock and Roll Hit Parade from 6pm to 8pm on Sundays, and Community Connections between 12pm and 3pm on Wednesdays.
“I invite local groups or local organisations for an hour (in the Community Connections). We play a little bit of music, but we’re here mainly to connect the community to other groups,” Mr Collier said.
“We’ve had one phone call from someone who’s lived in the area for 25 years and didn’t know some of the groups that I’ve interviewed even existed.
“I play music and tell a bit about artists and all that sort of stuff (in the other two shows). They are mainly aimed at the baby boomer generation.”
His adventure as a radio presenter started when he received a special Christmas gift from his children.
“I’ve always had an interest in radio since I was a kid. I’d always wanted to be involved in radio, but in the early days, there was no community radio,” the radio presenter said.
“In 2006, a couple of my kids bought me a radio presenter training course run by Yarra Valley FM (at the time) for a Christmas present because I’d already told them about how much I like radio.
“I was really chuffed, I did the course, they offered me a show, and I’ve stayed here ever since.”
In the six-week training course, Mr Collier learnt about the knowledge and skills that a radio presenter must know, like libels, ethics and how to use the radio broadcasting equipment.
Mr Collier said community radio has a great future.
“I’ve done some readings, and they say, ‘One of the biggest killers in the future is going to be loneliness.’ and there are a lot of research that we’re the most connected we’ve ever been through iPads and iPhones and all that, but people are very lonely in their homes particularly if
one of the partners dies,” the radio presenter said.
“Community Connections is about trying to get people off the couch and into groups.
“I’ve probably done 700 interviews now, and
so I know that those sorts of things have changed people’s lives. I don’t say I’m any good at doing that, but I’m just saying that the fact that we talked the people into doing something has saved
their lives, and I can guarantee that.” You can listen to three of Mr Collier’s radio programs at yarravalleyfm.org.au/listen.html or 99.1 on your FM dial.
Delivering Good Deeds for a decade is also helping Cliff
By Dongyun Kwon
This year marks the 10th anniversary of a Healesville-based charity.
Good Deed Garage, founded by Healesville resident Cliff Overton, is a charity which raises funds to support other charities through rebuilding old motorcycles.
Mr Overton said he founded the charity in 2015.
“Basically, a couple of other friends and I find an old, broken-down motorcycle, find the parts, clean it all up, put it back together, maybe customise it, raffle it off, and then the money from the raffle tickets goes to a charity,” he said.
Good Deed Garage has sold three bikes that the members rebuilt, raising close to $30,000 to donate proceeds to different charities over the past 10 years.
“The first charity in 2015 was Beyond Blue. The second charity after that was Make A Wish Foundation because the guy who gave us the bike (asked us to put the money into Make A Wish),” the founder said.
“And the last one was two charities, one called Holy Fools that supports the homeless locally and a similar group called Junction Support Services up in Albury, because a good friend of mine in Albury did a lot of work on the bike, so we shared it around.”
Mr Overton has been volunteering as a firefighter at the Healesville CFA.
Unfortunately, he suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after he’d attended the Black Saturday bushfires as a firefighter.
Rather than being frustrated by the trauma, the firefighter tried to find a way to support people who were in need like him, which sparked a new chapter of his life with Good Deed Garage.
The charity founder said tinkering on motorcycles is good therapy for his PTSD.
“I was not working because I had some mental
health problems after the Black Saturday bushfires,” he said.
“So in 2015, it caught up with me, so I stopped work, and I was working on my own motorcycles. And a friend on Facebook put up a post saying, ‘Here’s a free motorcycle for anyone that wants to do something with it’.
“(When I saw that post), I thought I could grab that while I’m not working, and clean it up, maybe sell it and put the money into Beyond Blue. I chose Beyond Blue because they were doing a lot of work, researching mental health and emergency service workers.”
Good Deed Garage needs community support to continue the positive impacts.
“Any support in the way of donations of money or skills is appreciated,” Mr Overton said.
“I just put an order in America for a small box of spare parts to come over here, that’s $900.
“I need to find a painter to paint the frame, to paint the tank … I need a website for this charity. If anyone wants to build a website, that will help. People can help in many ways.
“You could really help just by liking and following the Good Deed Garage Facebook page. The more followers we get, the more sponsors and donors we can attract.”
A radio announcer at a Melbourne radio station also agreed to join Good Deed Garage as an ambassador for promotion.
The name of the ambassador will be unveiled once all the formal work is finalised.
Anyone wishing to support this charity can contact Mr Overton through the Good Deed Garage Facebook page, at facebook.com/profile. php?id=61574641163497
The Good Deed Garage crew is currently rebuilding a Honda CB400F Cafe Racer for the next raffle.
You can follow the progress of the current project and see the first three builds on their Facebook page.
Alan Collier has been involved with the Yarra Valley FM for about 17 years. (Dongyun Kwon: 490713)
Good Deed Garage founder Cliff Overton. (Dongyun Kwon: 490756)
Safe, supportive at Millwarra
At Millwarra Primary School, we believe every child deserves to thrive in a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment. With two welcoming campuses and a strong sense of community, we offer learning experiences that go beyond the classroom to help every student reach their full potential.
Throughout Term Two, our students embraced countless opportunities – from archery competitions with top-three finishes, to Photo Trails at Maroondah Dam, and visits to local kindergartens and aged care homes that build social skills and empathy. They also worked with our Wellbeing Leader to proudly complete a colourful mural celebrating our school values, made possible by a generous paint donation from Dulux, with a special visit from the Dulux Dog to mark the occasion — bringing extra excitement and school spirit to the event. Our Senior students also had unique opportunities to link classroom studies with the real world, engaging with Aaron Violi MP and Cindy McLeish MP during visits connected to their government studies. We’re proud to teach more than just academics – we nurture confidence, resilience, and kindness.
At Millwarra, we are passionately committed to nurturing every child’s learning journey. Our Junior teachers have embraced Little Learners Love Literacy, a powerful phonics program that lays a solid foundation in both reading and writing—skills that open doors to lifelong learning and creativity. Next term, our entire staff will embark on Top 10 Maths training, empowering us to deliver engaging, hands-on lessons that inspire every student to grow and succeed at their own pace. Through the support of generous community partners, such as ADCare Community Op Shop in Warburton, we’re able to provide additional co-curricular programs. These opportunities create meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that connect to the curriculum and enrich every child’s education.
Our two campuses work closely together to ensure a consistent, high-quality curriculum, al-
lowing students at both locations to benefit from shared resources, teaching expertise, and collaborative learning opportunities. When your child joins Millwarra Primary School, they become part of a community that values Respect, Resilience, Community, and Kindness – the foundations for lifelong success.
Call us today to book a tour and discover why excellence is achieved together at Millwarra Primary School.
St Joseph’s
Primary School
Welcoming Community
Situated on 17 acres of bush
Opportunities to access Natural Envrionments
Promoting Christian Values
Daily Fitness Program
Excellent Sport Resources
Explicit Teaching of Phonics, Literacy and Numeracy
Japanese Language Program
Facilitating Respectful, Responsible and Resilient Learners
Excellent Science, Visual Arts and Performing Arts Programs
Great teamwork shown by the junior students. (Supplied)
Millwarra Primary School loved having the Dulux Dog visit. (Supplied)
Discover St Brigid’s Primary
St Brigid’s Primary School in Healesville offers a warm, inclusive, and high-quality educational environment where children are supported to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
With a proud legacy of over 120 years, the school blends tradition with innovation, providing a rich and engaging curriculum that nurtures the whole child.
At the beginning of 2026, St Brigid’s will open a brand-new Early Years building, purpose-built to welcome two new Prep and Year One classes.
This exciting development reflects the school’s commitment to providing the best possible start for young learners in a safe, modern, and inspiring setting.
St Brigid’s offers small class sizes and a personalised approach to learning.
The curriculum is designed to challenge and support every student, with a strong focus on literacy and numeracy.
From systematic phonics in the early years to advanced problem-solving in mathematics, students are guided to become confident communicators and critical thinkers.
Intervention and extension programs ensure that all learners are supported at their point of need.
Wellbeing is at the heart of everything St Brigid’s does.
The school’s dedicated Student Wellbeing Leader works closely with staff, families, and external specialists to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment.
Students are empowered to take ownership of their emotional and social development through proactive programs that promote positive behaviour, resilience, and self-regulation.
The school’s wellbeing framework ensures that every child feels valued, heard, and supported throughout their learning journey.
Limited places are available for 2026 Prep enrolments.
The transition program includes enrolment interviews in August, followed by four transition sessions in Term 4 to help children feel confident and connected before starting school.
These sessions will be held on: Wednesday 29 October, 1:30pm – 2:45pm
Families are warmly invited to book a tour and experience the welcoming community and exceptional learning environment at St Brigid’s Primary School.
THURSDAY 7 AUGUST 2025 TH OPEN FOR EVERYONE & 2PM
THURSDAY 7 AUGUST TH OPEN FOR EVERYONE TOURS AT 9AM; 10AM; 12PM & 2P
Join us to experience all that ST BRIGID’S SCHOOL,
Join us to experience all that HEALESVILLE has
Year 6.
offer prospective students across Prep to Year 6.
With a proud legacy of over 120 years, St Brigid’s Primary School blends tradition with innovation, providing a rich and engagingcurriculum that nurtures the whole child. (Supplied)
The school’s wellbeing framework ensures that every child feels valued, heard, and supportedthroughout their learning journey. (Supplied)
St Brigid’s Primary School offers small class sizes and a personalised approach to learning. (Supplied)
ENROLMENTS
Becoming the best you can
At Yarra Glen Primary School, we are committed to providing the best educational outcomes for all students, differentiating by focusing on each individual student’s point of need.
Our PERRI values reflect our culture in which Persistence, Encouragement, Resilience, Respect and Inclusiveness form the foundation of who we are.
Teamwork, accountability and acceptance combine to together with our PERRI Values to provide an engaging and supportive learning experience for all students.
Yarra Glen Primary School embeds and teaches the School-Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) framework to develop positive, safe, supportive learning cultures.
SWPBS assists schools to improve social, emotional, behavioural and academic outcomes for children and young people.
Our School Council is comprised of caring, supportive and dedicated parents, committed to the successful running of the school – for now and into the future.
We have sub-committees comprising of staff and parents who are actively involved in various facets of the school, such as wellbeing, policy, fundraising and grounds development.
At the heart of our school lies an environment that supports and enhances learning, with outstanding facilities specifically designed to do just that.
From modern, well-equipped classrooms to expansive outdoor play areas, a huge oval, an indoor multi-purpose space and creative arts spaces, our infrastructure is designed with student success in mind.
Our student leadership program, which includes school leaders and house captains, promotes leadership, responsibility, and student voice within the school community.
Our SRC – Student Representative Council – allows all students to have a say.
Student voice is crucial in the success of our school.
We pride ourselves on our students contributing to decision making processes and collectively influencing outcomes by putting forward their views, concerns and ideas, and actively participating in our school, our community and the education system.
Student voice allows students to engage, participate, lead and learn.
The school is led by a Leadership Team consisting of the Principal, Assistant Principal, Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader, as well
We
Recess clubs and participation in district sporting events ensures there really is something for everyone at Yarra Glen Primary School.
Our students perform in biennial school productions and our art show always wows the crowd.
These events allow students to experience
multiple forms of the arts.
Yarra Glen Primary School offers all students a place to learn, to grow and to be the best they can be.
We support our local community, our families and each other.
Come along for a school tour to find out how we facilitate our vision; to provide all students an opportunity to reach their full potential, become life-long learners and valuable members of their community.
YARRA GLEN PRIMARY SCHOOL
is committed to delivering a quality school curriculum that equips students with the knowledge, skills and attitudes to become successful learners and to take their place in an increasingly more technologically complex world.
If you are looking to enrol your child at Yarra Glen Primary, please contact our office on 9730 1254 or email yarra.glen.ps@education.vic.gov.au for more information. We look forward to seeing you and your child in the near future!
as team leaders and curriculum area leaders.
have a Wellbeing Officer, out of school hours care and breakfast club.
At the heart of Yarra Glen Primary School lies an environment that supports and enhances learning, with outstanding facilities. (Supplied)
ENROLMENTS
Night of Lights is fun for all
Warburton Primary School is set to shine on Friday 29 August as it hosts its beloved Night of Lights lantern festival and community bush dance — and this year, the event carries even more significance.
As the school proudly celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2025, the Night of Lights offers a glowing reminder of just how deeply connected the school is to its local community.
Running from 5.30pm to 8pm, this family-friendly evening is open to everyone and promises a magical mix of lanterns, music, food, and togetherness.
The event begins with a twilight lantern walk, where a dazzling array of student-made lanterns will light up the school grounds in a colourful procession after sunset.
It’s a favourite tradition for many, and a testament to the creative spirit of the students.
Once the lanterns have been paraded, the night kicks on with a live bush band and a traditional community bush dance — a chance for locals of all ages to grab a partner and join in some good old-fashioned fun.
No one will go hungry, with a warming spread on offer: hot soup and bread served from the Harvest Cafe kitchen classroom, delicious homebaked treats, and a sausage sizzle thanks to the school’s dedicated Parents and Friends group.
With 2026 Prep enrolments now open, the evening is also a perfect opportunity for prospective families to experience the vibrant culture and welcoming spirit that defines Warburton Primary School.
And while Night of Lights is sure to be a memorable evening, it’s just one of many highlights in a milestone year for the school.
On Saturday 19 October, the school will host a major 150th birthday celebration in Term 4 — a full-day event featuring market stalls, speeches, live music, food trucks and rides, bringing together past, present and future members of the Warburton community.
“This is a really special year for us,” principal
Nathan van der Monde said.
“We’re proud of our long history and excited to share these celebrations with the wider community - starting with a lantern walk and ending
with a fun dance.”
Everyone is welcome - past families, current students, future Preps, and anyone from the Upper Yarra region who wants to be part of some-
thing joyful.
Come for the glow, stay for the music, and help us kick off Warburton Primary School’s 150th year in style.
Warburton Primary School’s Night of Lights returns on Friday 29 August. (Supplied)
NEWS Quilt talent goes on show
By Matilda McDermott and Mikayla van Loon
The Art Quilt Australia and Expressions: The Wool Quilt Prize exhibition has once again arrived at the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum in Lilydale.
The exhibition features more than 20 quilted works that range in technique as part of a collaboration with the Oz Quilt Network and the National Wool Museum.
“This is the fourth time we’ve presented it, so it’s a nice collaboration between all of us and there are other galleries that come into the 25 years that they’ve been exhibiting for,” Yarra Ranges Regional Museum curator Maddie Reece said.
The 22 quilts that are on display were part of the 69 that were in contention for the Oz Quilt Network Award of Excellence.
The selected quilts were chosen for their excellence in contemporary quilt making through originality and technique, already attracting an audience since launching on 9 July.
“Art Quilt does have its own audience, we have been overwhelmed by quilters in the past week. It’s got its following,” Ms Reece said.
The quilts were made with no theme in mind, however, many of the artists took inspiration from real events such as Covid, bushfires, science and the environment, with each work carrying incredible detail.
“When you walk into the show you’re like, ‘oh yes, quilts’. But the closer you get to the works is where you see that detail and that artistry and talent,” Ms Reece said.
Some quilts follow the traditions of layered and stitched textile but artists like Margery Goodall really pushed the boundaries with her work Safety Net employing the use of medicine boxes sewn together to highlight how the pandemic changed people’s thinking about personal safety.
The artists and their works come from all over Australia and New Zealand. Artists such as Greg Somerville had two pieces selected, taking a microscopic lens approach, using machinery to complete the works.
HewasawardedthecovetedExpressionsWool Quilt Prize, meaning his work will be acquired into the National Wool Museum collection.
Other artists in the exhibition such as Anna Brown hand quilted their piece and Linda Steele improvised her piece, layering brightly coloured fabrics with freestyle stitching seeing her win the
The Yarra Junction in pictures
By Oliver Winn
Photographer GRAEME EDWARDS captured some sublime scenes of Yarra Junction with his camera.
Iconic spots such as the Upper Yarra Museum and the Blue Lotus Water Garden were framed and composed by Mr Edwards.
His expertise lent to some dazzling displays which depicted some cooler tones alongside warm and vibrant colour palettes.
Oz Quilt Network Award for Excellence.
“It’s a real combination of machine stitched, hand stitched, eco dyes and commercial dyes. You’ve got works that are all hand stitched versus those that a machine stitched,” Ms Reece said.
“So you can really pick up that difference. A lot of the artists in this show are employing different materials.
“The longer you spend with each art piece, the more detail (you see). And the more visits you
have, each time you walk in you see something different. That is what is exceptional about this exhibition.”
The exhibition was created back in 2009 to showcase how quilting can be used as a technique to create works of art. The works celebrate the art of quilting and how it’s universal.
“Every culture has quilts, it’s like a tea cup. Like a universal object in that sense,” Ms Reece said.
The exhibition isn’t just for quilters, it’s for those who can appreciate the extreme detail and work that went into the pieces on display.
“I think fundamentally as someone who is not a quilter I’m coming to really appreciate the detail and the effort that has gone into them. Because I don’t understand how they can do it. So I think I’m just in awe of what they’ve been able to achieve in individual works,” Ms Reece said.
The exhibition is showing until 12 October at the
Horses grazing on a Yarra Junction farm. The beautiful Upper Yarra Museum building.
Yarra Junction’s Blue Lotus Water Garden (Graeme Edwards)
A bridge splits through beautiful lotus displays. The Lilydale-Warburton Rail Trail in the early hours of the morning.
Along the Little Yarra River Trail.
A cold day on the main street of Yarra Junction.
Yarra Ranges Regional Museum in Lilydale.
The Art Quilt Australia 2025 exhibition launched on Wednesday 9 July at the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum. (Sean Paris Photography)
NEWS Understanding our dingoes
By Oliver Winn
A packed out Yellingbo Hall played venue to a Dingo Education Day on 13 July which saw over 140 people attend to learn more about one of Australia’s apex predators.
Hosted by the Australia Dingo Foundation (ADF) and Victoria National Parks Association (VNPA), the event explored the important role they play in managing our ecosystems and also gave attendees the chance to meet a couple of dingoes up close.
ADF founder Lyn Watson was taken aback by the number of people who showed up.
“We expected maybe 30 or 40, but even when we got there 20 minutes early, the chairs were all taken.
“There were people outside the door who couldn’t get in… they had people sitting three rows on the floor on the stage, they had people sitting on the floor in the main hall.
“It was absolutely jam packed as you could ever get in that place,” Ms Watson said.
She said the large interest shown by the public indicated that people want to learn more about the dingo.
Pumbah the dingo stole many hearts at the event while presenters discussed the fascinating scientific debate surrounding the origin of the dingo.
“Australia’s dingo is unique. We now know this from the DNA studies and the comparisons that are done with all of the other wild canines of the world,” Ms Watson said.
“The studies clearly show that our Australian dingo did not descend from the gray wolf. The studies clearly show that the dingo certainly did not descend from the street dogs of Asia.”
Victorian National Parks Association (VNPA) parks and nature campaigner Jordan Crook said a topic of focus on the day was a 2023 study by the University of New South Wales (UNSW) which showed most dingoes didn’t interbreed with wild domestic dogs brought over from Europe.
“The science is out and it’s very clear in relation to dingoes not hybridising with domestic dogs. That’s really clear now and we need to learn to live with them where possible because they’re just so important to the local ecosystems,” Mr Crook said.
But recent attacks by feral domestic dogs and dingoes on livestock in the Yarra Ranges have landowners weary.
While it isn’t clear what proportion of these attacks are committed by feral domestic dogs or dingoes, the UNSW study prompted conservationists to take a more nuanced approach to managing these attacks.
“There needs to be an unbiased assessment to understand if these are domestic feral dogs or if it’s dingoes,” Mr Crook said.
This sentiment wasn’t shared by landowners and farmers who attended the Yarra Valley Wild Dog Action Group’s meeting in April as it was out of touch with the significant impacts these attacks had on their livelihoods.
Stock and Land journalist Barry Murphy said at the meeting in order to combat the “view among city people” that the “wild dog is the dingo that shall be protected”, landowners needed to document the attacks.
“So for us it’s all about demonstrating just how bad it is.”
Dingoes are apex predators in Australia and
COMMUNITY DIARY
COMMUNITY DIARY
WHAT’S ON AROUND THE VALLEY
Christmas in July with the WHYLD community group
WHYLD Community group are hosting a Christmas in July movie night Friday 25 July, at the Syd-
are crucial at keeping wallaby, kangaroo and wombat populations in balance.
Alongside the dingo’s significant cultural importance to Victoria’s First Peoples, dingoes are
ney Halbish Hall, 22 Old Dalry Road, Don Valley.
The event starts at 6pm with the screening beginning at 6.30. Entry is free, but please bring some festive feastings for the fellow visitors to share.
The movie showing will be How the Grinch Stole Christmas, starring Jim Carrey as the Grinch, a heart warming film sure to get you filled with Christmas Spirit.
Come on down to watch a fun movie to celebrate Christmas in July.
For more info, contact: welcome@whyld.org.au
Let’s talk roads - Community drop-ins
Yarra Ranges Council is running a series of dropin sessions for residents to come and chat directly
protected threatened wildlife under the Wildlife Act 1975 and listed as ‘Vulnerable’ on the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 Threatened List.
Research by DEECA’s Arthur Rylah Institute
to staff, ask questions, get clarification and report an issue.
You can register to attend online at au.openforms. com/Form/c8cb2ec3-2daa-4710-bb723a30553b21a9
Although not the most exciting topic, the Yarra Ranges local road network is extremely important and a priority for both residents and the council.
Yarra Ranges’ road network is one of the largest in the state, with the council managing approximately 1764 kilometres of roads, including 708 kilometres of unsealed roads.
Yarra Ranges Council also knows road-related issues can be complex and often it can be hard to know who is responsible for which road.
The sessions run from 5.30pm to 7pm and residents can drop-in anytime.
These are the topics that will be included:
(ARI) revealed critically low dingo populations in north west Victoria (between 40 and 230) while populations in east Victoria remained stable (2640 to 8800).
• how Council manages and maintains the local road network that it is responsible for
• unsealed roads and the Special Charge Scheme
• traffic and road safety
• interacting with Council and reporting an issue There are four drop-in sessions being held in different location across the municipality. Make sure you register to attend at au.openforms.com/Form/c8cb2ec3-2daa-4710bb72-3a30553b21a9
• Drop-in 4: Monbulk Living and Learning Centre, Wednesday 20 August, 5:30pm - 7pm.
Pumbah the dingo being absolutely adorable. (Supplied)
Over 140 people crammed into Yellingbo Hall for the event.
Crime continues to soar
Crime in Victoria has soared to a record high. The most recent data published by the Crime Statistics Agency is deeply troubling: a criminal offence is committed every 50.3 seconds; a car is stolen every 17 minutes; and youth are over-represented in violent attacks.
Crime is increasingly impacting our local community, with criminal incidents up 22.1 per cent in the Yarra Ranges.
Over the last 12 months, 8,236 criminal offences were reported, with Lilydale, Mooroolbark, Chirnside Park, Coldstream and Montrose suffering significant increases.
A deep dive into the data reveals that in the Yarra Ranges, aggravated robbery is up 82 per cent, motor vehicle theft is up 79 per cent, residential non-aggravated burglary is up 43 per cent, and residential aggravated burglary is up a staggering 177 per cent.
CARTOON
State of Affairs
Bridget Vallence Evelyn MP
Our community has seen the Lilydale Football grandstand set on fire, several bus shelters smashed, the Seville tobacco shop firebombed causing serious damage to adjoining businesses, armed robberies at the Wandin pharmacy and at supermarkets in Mooroolbark and Montrose, and a sharp rise in theft from people’s homes, cars, and farms.
The situation is alarming and comes as the
Melbourne rare books PASSION FOR PROSE
First held in 2012, the Melbourne Rare Book Week is an annual celebration of “the importance of books, publishing, book production and collecting” as proudly declared by its official website. Taking place from Thursday 24 July to Saturday 2 August, this year’s program offers 46 events across the city, covering a wide range of free talks, workshops, exhibitions and tours on book-related topics for all tastes. As usual, the bookish week is heralded by State Library Victoria’s “World of the Book” exhibition, which marks its 20th anniversary this year.
The more than 300 historically significant items on display showcase the history of book design, production and illustration throughout the past four centuries. Next, the Parliament Library – the second oldest library in our state – will introduce “William Strutt’s Victoria the Golden”, a collection of sketches that captured events in the colony from the gold rush to the departure of the Burke and Wills expedition.
The History Council of Victoria’s “Hearing the News” event will explain how the happenings of the pre-modern world were conveyed to the commoners by ballad singers, pamphleteers and public orators. Meanwhile, Museums Victoria’s “Women in Natural History” event will explore the work of past and contemporary female natural history artists.
Also worth noting is the “Mysteries with History” event, where a panel of Melbourne crime writers will “delve into the swirl of history, murder and intrigue”.
Equally interesting is the “Joseph Furphy on Settler Violence” event, which will discuss the author’s admiration for the Indigenous people and his resistance against race-based prejudice. Other fascinating events include “Scapegoats of the Empire”, which will examine the memoir of George Witton, the third defendant in the military trial for murder brought against
WITH CHRISTINE SUN
Breaker Morant and Peter Hancock; and “From Convict Printers to Book Arcades”, which will shed light on Australia’s contribution to a unique international project seeking to document global histories of the book.
A special children-focused event is “Come into Moominland”, which will explore the world of Moomintroll, Snork Maiden and Snukkin created by Finnish author and illustrator Tove Jansson. Another artistic event is “Travelling to Art”, which will investigate the art of creating travel diaries combining memory and imagination. Finally, two particular events caught this reviewer’s eye, with the first being “The Archaeology of an Archive”, which will tackle the myriad ways in which researchers and creators can find inspirations in retained materials and their “preserved patterns”.
The other event is “Le Mort or La Mort”, which will scrutinise the origins and cultural context of the Danse Macabre.
The “Melbourne Rare Book Week” program concludes with the Melbourne Rare Book Fair at the University of Melbourne’s Wilson Hall, which will run from Thursday 31 July to Saturday 2 August.
More details can be found at: rarebooksmelbourne.com/events-2/
Allan Labor Government cut nearly $50 million from the Victoria Police budget despite a shortfall of over 1100 police officers occurring on their watch.
Our local Yarra Ranges Police do tremendous work in difficult conditions but are let down by government mismanagement and financial incompetence leaving frontline officers overstretched and under-equipped.
Furthermore, the Labor Government’s softon-crime policies, including weakening Victoria’s bail laws, have allowed offenders to walk free with no consequences, being bailed only to repeatedly re-offend, leaving victims of crime devastated.
One of the highest priorities of any government should be community safety.
Yet, Labor has been reluctant to ensure laws are strong enough to deter crime, or respect and resource our police properly to tackle the crime
crisis and keep residents and small businesses safe.
Under Labor, police have less powers than previously to arrest people for disorderly and antisocial behaviour, and currently 43 police stations are understaffed or closed.
Victorians deserve better than this.
Underpinned by a deep commitment to community safety, the Victorian Liberals will strengthen bail laws if elected in November 2026 as well as strengthen powers to tackle antisocial behaviour and violent protesters.
Only our Break Bail – Face Jail policy will restore penalties for breaching bail, end Labor’s exemption for youth offenders who breach bail, and apply tougher bail rules for burglary and robbery.
There must be a focus to arrest the rise in crime and put community safety first.
Boring sequel light on action
The Old Guard 2 Starring Charlize Theron, Ngo Thanh Vân and Uma Thurman MA15+ 3/5
Heavy on lore and light on worthwhile action, The Old Guard 2 is a flat, boring sequel to the 2020 first film.
Immortal mercenary Andy/Andromache (Charlize Theron) and her team must grapple with a powerful threat from her past.
Like the first film, The Old Guard 2 is beautifully-shot and the cast has strong chemistry, but this sequel features contrived dialogue, blunt exposition and a slow, uneventful plot that feels like an unfulfilling middle chapter.
The villains (especially Uma Thurman as Discord) are paper-thin, and Quynh’s (Ngo Thanh Vân) grudge against Andy for leaving her trapped at the bottom of the ocean for centuries feels silly for someone who can literally live forever.
The action is a severe downgrade from the first Old Guard film, with the cool choreography marred by quick cuts, sloppy framing and even foreground obstacles.
There are only a couple of decent fights toward the very end, but ‘it gets better later’ doesn’t mean much when “later” is 80 long minutes.
Capturing
Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre
The Diary of Anne Frank Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre chose the story of The Diary of Anne Frank for the July season. A moving play about a young Jewish girl and her family who were hiding out from the Nazi invaders in Amsterdam.
LATC did a remarkable set of the secret upstairs apartment of a factory, whose door was hidden behind a bookshelf. There were two families in hiding there, then later another man joined them temporarily but stayed. One can imagine the strain of living with eight people in such dire straits. The cast did a wonderful job, really capturing the feeling of the time and the cramped conditions.
The play opened after the war with Otto Frank, the only survivor, returning to the apartment where he found Anne’s diary. Then the play moved back in time to when it all happened.
AnneFrankwasgivenasuperbperformanceby Emily Barnes-Read. A delightful performance with Emily catching all the correct nuances of a thirteen-year-old who was telling the story through her diary. She covered difficulties of teenage years, fighting with her sister and mother, then falling in love with the boy from another family. A wonderful portrayal. Otto Frank, Anne’s father, was played by David Spencer-Gardner. Who also gave a great performance in the role of occasional peace maker, father, and husband. A difficult role, but well handled by David. Edith Frank, Anne’s mother, was played by Elizabeth van Spronsen. A moving role well handled by Elizabeth. As a mother and wife, Elizabeth projected well, giving a moving performance.
Margot Frank, Anne’s sister, played by Em Beggs, gave a good performance as the quiet one
This is a very minor issue, but I dislike the tacky iMovie-looking location title-cards. If Megan 2.0 is the Terminator 2 of its franchise (and even invites this comparison), then The Old Guard 2 is the Highlander 2: The Quickening of its franchise: a bigger, lore-expanding, inferior follow-up (though The Old Guard 2 isn’t nearly as bad as the legendarily bad Highlander 2).
As a medium-budget genre flick released to Netflix during lockdown, the first Old Guard in 2020 received more attention than it normally would have, but The Old Guard 2 can’t stand out with the cinemas back open or on its own merits.
The Old Guard 2 is streaming on Netflix, but you’d be better off rewatching the first film or any number of more competent action films starring Charlize Theron.
of the Frank family.
Peter Van Daan, the boy who Anne used to tease, then fell in love wit,h was played by Jackson Langelaan. Jackson also captured the fine nuances of a 16-year-old boy being teased by a 13-year-old girl. A good portrayal by Jackson. His mother, Mrs Van Daan, was played by Elizabeth Matjacic, who also met the high standard of the play.
Her husband, Mr Van Daan, played by Mark Crowe, added to the standard of the production. He was not quite the man to be in this position, as he was not quite what he seemed. Mark handled the role with finesse and was quite believable. Mr Dusselm, played by Jonathan Edwards, was themanwhohidtheJewsinhisfactory.Asmallbut vital role and was handled excellently. Miep Gieps, played by Alexandra Carter, who also helped the Jewish families, gave a good performance in her role. The stranger who came in after the others and was only going to stay for a short while but stayed on was Mr Kraler, played by Jason Triggs, who captured the character of such an inverted man who did not get on with the other families.
A good evening of theatre by Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre and definitely a company not to be missed.
FAMILY HOME WITH OPPORTUNITY GALORE!
THIS substantial family home offers not only one of the most prized locations in Upwey but also multiple options for extended family living. Situated on a generous corner block, it comes with approved plans and permits to subdivide and build a second dwelling at the rear.
Brick veneer construction and featuring an open-plan design, the home sits on a large, near-flat 1484m² sun-filled block. It boasts three separate living zones, including a spacious main lounge, a cozy TV area, and a dining space. A standout feature is the oversized home office with its own inviting sitting area and wood fire-perfect for running a business or working from home.
There are four bedrooms in total, including a main bedroom with an ensuite and walk-in robe. The fourth bedroom offers access to the double garage, making it ideal for teenagers seeking a ‘home away from home’ vibe. Ducted heating throughout and ceiling fans provide comfort year-round.
The modern, well-maintained kitchen offers ample bench space and is conveniently positioned between the meals and TV areas. It overlooks a spacious, paved undercover entertaining area at the rear-perfect for outdoor gatherings.
Adding even more versatility is a selfcontained one-bedroom studio with kitchenette and bathroom, ideal for a teenager, elderly parent, or guest accommodation.
Tradies and hobbyists will love the fantastic 6m x 11m shed with side road access and a 3m x 11m attached verandah-ideal for caravan/trailer storage or extra undercover space.
A sealed driveway, beautiful gardens, and abundant off-street parking make this property a rare find for large or extended families-or anyone needing extra space.
This property must be seen to be believedthere are so many opportunities you won’t find anywhere else.
WHATS GREAT ABOUT THIS PROPERTY:
• Plans and permits for subdivision and build
• Flat, corner block with dual access
Large shedding, double garage and plenty of parking options
Self contained separate studio
• Four bedrooms plus spacious home office
WALK EVERWHERE- BRAND NEW HOME
PERFECTLY positioned in the centre of Yarra Junction, this brand new architecturally designed home offers an exceptional lifestyle for those looking to downsize, invest, or simply enjoy easy, low-maintenance living in a peaceful yet convenient location.
Set within easy, near-level walking distance to local shops, cafes, gym, ambulance & police stations, swimming pool, medical centre, and the scenic Warburton Rail Trail, this stunning home blends comfort, quality, and accessibility.
Property features include: 2 spacious bedrooms & 2 bathrooms
• Main bedroom with elegant bay window, walk-in robe, and full ensuite
• Light filled open plan living and dining area
Stylish kitchen with stone benchtops, quality appliances, and breakfast bar
• Step outside through sliding doors to a generous private courtyard - perfect for:
Entertaining guests
• Growing your own garden
• Providing room for pets to play
Added bonus: a rear gate opens directly onto a small laneway, offering a convenient shortcut into town.
Additional features:
Single carport for off-street parking
High-quality finishes throughout
• Thoughtfully designed for easy living Homes of this calibre in such a central location are increasingly rare. Call us today to arrange your inspection – you won’t be disappointed!
Contact: Chris Lord - 0408 148 861, PROFESSIONALS YARRA VALLEY – 5967 1800
ARCHITECTURALLY DESIGNED FAMILY SANCTUARY IN A PREMIER UPWEY LOCATION
TUCKED away in one of Upwey’s most desirable pockets, 19 Ferndale Avenue presents a rare opportunity to own an architecturally designed, character-filled home set on a generous 996m² (approx.) allotment. Offering the perfect balance of style, space, and functionality, this beautifully crafted four-bedroom residence is ideal for families, first home buyers, or those seeking a lowmaintenance lifestyle surrounded by nature.
From the moment you step inside, the home exudes warmth and charm, with striking exposed timber beams, timber look floorboards, and large picture windows with remote awnings that bathe the living spaces in natural light. The expansive lounge area, complete with an inviting reading nook ideal for kids play space, flows seamlessly onto the elevated outdoor decking. This impressive space, overlooking the leafy backyard and treetops, creates a tranquil setting for both relaxation and entertaining.
The heart of the home is the open plan kitchen and dining area, perfectly designed for modern living. A gas cooktop, wall oven, dishwasher, and breakfast bar make entertaining a breeze, while generous cabinetry ensures all your storage needs are met. The adjacent laundry features practical storage options, and direct access to the front and rear of the property for added convenience.
Upstairs, a versatile mezzanine level offers a private and peaceful retreat ideal for a home office, children’s playroom or creative space. The main bedroom is a true sanctuary, complete with a full ensuite and double built-in robe and large attic storage space, while the remaining three bedrooms also feature builtin robes and double blinds. A central family bathroom with a separate WC services the rest of the home with ease, along with loads of storage space under house and inside.
Outdoor living is just as impressive, with a large entertaining deck extending from both the lounge and dining areas, offering serene views of the surrounding bushland. A spacious backyard featuring a charming timber bridgeperfect for kids, pets, or anyone who loves spending time outdoors.
Completing the picture are two individual carports and ample off-street parking, ideal for guests, boats, or caravans. Year-round comfort is assured with ducted heating, ceiling fans, and split-system air conditioning throughout.
HOME ESSENTIALS
Combining contemporary design with character and practicality, this unique family home is positioned walking distance to
Upwey’s local pre and primary schools, village shops, transport, and walking trails. A property of this calibre is rarely offered and sure to impress. Now is the time to secure your place in this peaceful and tightly held Upwey location. ●
FAMILY LIVING IN A CONVENIENT LOCATION
POSITIONED just minutes walk to Yarra Junctions’ town centre this charming property offers all the convenience at your fingertips.
Offering 3 good size bedrooms, large family size living/lounge area leading out to a covered entertaining area and a securely fenced back yard it’s the ideal spot for the kids and pets to enjoy and explore.
The kitchen spacious and has plenty of bench and cupboard space plus a separate meals/dining area, the large front decking offers extra outdoor living and entertaining.
Ample car accommodation with a large double carport and extra car space, a great property in a convenient location and just a short stroll to local schools, shops and transport.
Contact: David Carroll 0419 539 320, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION. 5967 1277
Meet our Board Directors
Healesville & District Community Enterprise Ltd. (HDCEL) is the company that owns the Bendigo Bank franchise located at 205 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville.
The company is guided by a volunteer board, which is the major difference between banking with a Community Bank and banking with a ‘regular’ bank. Instead of profits going to executive bonuses and corporate retreats, HDCEL redirects this money back into community projects and organisations in Healesville and Yarra Glen.
When you open an account with us, you know your money is staying in the community; and it makes a big difference!
Phil Wilson
Phil has lived in Healesville for the past 10 years and has been a member of the board since 2024. He has previously volunteered with Healesville SES, holding the position of Unit Controller for a year.
Other endeavours have included manager of an emergency accommodation facility working with Vicpol and local council.
Main career experience includes military service, 19 years with Telecom in computer operation and 20 years with National Australia Bank.
Now retired and wanting to make a positive contribution to the community, Phil is a member of the veterans for fishing club and is passionate about using HDCEL as a vehicle to support the communities of Healesville and surrounds.
REFLECTING timeless elegance with a Wisteria wrapped return verandah that invites you to sit back and relax, this unforgettable home lovingly built by the vendors will take your breath away with its spacious design, alfresco entertaining and beautiful views of the Yarra Valley and manicured garden.
Beaming with bright sunshine, the huge lounge room conveys a welcoming ambience with plush carpet underfoot, 9ft high ceilings soaring overhead and the flickering glow of a wood-burning fireplace warming those cool winter nights.
Hardwood polished floorboards flow through the adjoining meals zone and kitchen where quality appointments include 900mm oven/gas cooktop, corner pantry plus an island breakfast bench adorned with a Mountain Ash benchtop.
Creating a casual atmosphere for entertaining, French and sliding doors open out onto the wide verandah and covered alfresco deck, allowing friends and family to gather for a summertime BBQ, while children play amongst the picturesque gardens.
Quietly tucked along the hallway, you’ll find the three robed bedrooms, including the lavishly sized master suite boasting a Siemens heater, large walk-in-robe, ensuite and French door access onto the verandah.
Further serviced by a bright family bathroom with garden outlook, separate toilet and well-sized laundry.
Quality finishes include 9ft ceilings throughout, split system heating/air conditioning, ceiling fans, solar panels, excellent storage, Crimsafe flywire doors, wood shed, storage shed, double carport plus a large driveway with ample space for guest, trailer and machinery parking.
Poised on a magnificent 3.5 acre (approx) allotment, with excellent connectivity to the local primary school, cafe, hotel and of course the Iconic Rail Trail - all just a walk away! And don’t forget Wesburn Park Trail HeadWarburton Mountain Bike Destination also circa 1km away!
Rumour is the first trail opening is not too far away! Yarra Junction township is a short drive for your additional needs including Woolworths, GP Clinic, Yarra Centre, Police, Little Yarra Steiner School and Upper Yarra Secondary College.
This magic parcel is just waiting for you to call it your own! ●
$2,300,000 - $2,530,000 OFI
MICHELLE JONES 0411 085 631
LEAH BANNERMAN 0448 924 266 BARRY PLANT LILYDALE 9735 3300
$1,200,000 OFI Saturday 26th July 1-1:30pm
LEAH BANNERMAN 0448 924 266 MICHELLE JONES 0411 085 631 BARRY PLANT
9735 3300
26th July 10-10:30am
BANNERMAN 0448 924 266 MICHELLE JONES 0411 085 631
FAMILY LIVING AT ITS FINEST – SPACE, COMFORT AND STUNNING GARDEN SETTING
SET on a beautiful 5,960m² (approx.) block in a sought after, family friendly neighbourhood, this property is larger than meets the eye and offers a perfect blend of space, comfort, and versatility.
Ideally positioned just a short stroll to Belgrave Lake Park and conveniently located halfway between Belgrave and Belgrave South townships, this home will be a standout for those needing family sized and family focused living.
Spanning over two levels, the flexible floorplan is designed for those needing extra space or extended living options. Featuring five generous bedrooms, a home office nook plus a spacious open plan living and dining zone with an updated kitchen, there’s room for everyone!
Downstairs, a dedicated TV/rumpus room and kitchenette make it ideal for teenagers, guests, or multi-generational living.
Stay comfortable year round with ducted heating throughout, a split system heater/ cooler and the cosy charm of a crackling wood fire, whilst expansive windows frame tranquil views of the lush, park like garden around you.
Outside, entertain and relax around the inground pool, or let kids and pets explore the expansive backyard.
There’s ample space for all your lifestyle needs with a double garage under roofline, additional parking for cars, bikes, trucks, or trailers, and veggie gardens almost ready for your home grown produce.
Sit back and relax on the spacious wrap around verandah and soak up your private oasis that is filled with plenty of sunlight and surrounded by nature, all while being just minutes from train stations, schools, and essential amenities.
*Solar pool heating pool not in working order
PERFECT FIRST HOME IN A PEACEFUL SETTING
NESTLED in a peaceful and private setting, this charming 3-bedroom home offers first home buyers a chance to enter the market just a short walk from the beautiful Emerald Lake Park.
Nature lovers will be in their element with native wildlife and beautiful scenic walking tracks all around.
The 3 bedroom home is tucked away and surrounded by established gardens which offer a leafy outlook from every window and privacy ensuring you can enjoy a calm and tranquil hills lifestyle.
The open plan living area flows onto the outdoor covered decking which is an ideal space for entertaining or relaxing in solitude. With public transport nearby, and a short drive to Emerald’s vibrant township, this is the perfect place to start your home ownership journey.
Don’t miss this rare gem – affordable, peaceful, and full of potential.
FAMILY LIFESTYLE LIVING ON A GRAND SCALE
A beautiful property with an impressive street appeal boasting plenty of space inside and out, set on just over 3/4 of and acre. This property is sure to please the growing family with something for everyone! The classic homestead style home offers 4 big bedrooms plus an ensuite and walk in robe in the main bedroom. The open plan kitchen area has loads of bench and cupboard space plus a separate meals/dining area. Expansive lounge/living and family rooms ideally zoned to give the whole family plenty of space to spread out. Head outside and enjoy and explore the outdoors with big wide open spaces all round - it’s a kids and pets paradise. Covered veranda’s front and rear plus a separate covered entertaining area offer year round outdoor entertaining. A large garage and workshop provide plenty of car accommodation and with established gardens all round, this is an impressive property from every aspect. A great property designed with family space in mind and set in the glorious and semi rural surrounds of East Warburton - yet only a short drive to the Warburton township and public transport just a short walk down the road.
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 Assail (5)
4 Keep trying (9)
9 Ancestry (7)
10 Stinging plants (7)
11 Deliverance from harm (9)
12 Restore (5)
13 Stun (3)
14 Entitlement (11)
16 Impossible to rectify (11)
19 Be in debt (3)
20 Of them (5)
22 Helper (9)
25 Japanese paper art form (7)
26 Instructs; improves (7)
27 Without paths (9)
28 Varieties (5)
DOWN
1 Girdles (5)
2 Plant with large yellow head and edible seeds (9)
3 Jewelled coronet (5)
4 Officiate (7)
5 Encounter (3,4)
6 Pull up by the roots (9)
7 US comedian, – DeGeneres (5)
8 Not here (9)
13 Sleeveless garment worn over a shirt (9)
14 As opposed to hardcover (9)
15 Quarantine (9)
17 Understand clearly (7)
18 Woven containers (7)
21 Nickname of Eva Perón (5)
23 Deft (5)
24 Check-ups (5)
Pink sport is for the breast
By Dongyun Kwon
With the amazing success of the fundraiser over the past two years, Yarra Glen Football Netball Club (YGFNC) decided to host one more Pink Sports Day.
Pink Sports Days are a great way for a school or a sporting club, an association or a league to rally together to raise awareness and funds for Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) and its work supporting Australians affected by breast cancer.
Each day this year, 58 Australians will be told they have breast cancer, which is over 20,000 people in 2025.
It is expected that 217 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and many more are affected through the diagnosis of a partner, mother or friend.
This year, this fundraiser is organised by YGFNC social media manager Jasmin Wood and her friend Lauren Bull, who is also a past premiership netball player at YGFNC and used to coach netball for the club.
Ms Wood said the Pink Sports Day is about bringing people together, creating awareness, and raising as much money as possible for BCNA.
“On the day, all the players will wear pink socks, which we get from BCNA. Again, all proceeds go into the fundraiser,” she said.
“There will be raffles, silent auctions. We have a lot of small businesses around town that donate packages, vouchers, wine, hampers, all these things, which are involved in the raffles and auctions.
“We also have one of the football players who’s doing the big shave. We usually have some netball girls who do some baking, like little pink cupcakes and cookies.”
Ms Wood came up with the idea of hosting this event in Yarra Glen two years ago because her
mum, Sandra Wood, who was a genuine stalwart of the YGFNC, died of secondary breast cancer the year before.
“We did the first one on 3 July in 2023, which was (my mum’s) birthday, and we raised nearly $11,000, which was crazy, so then we thought,
‘Let’s keep doing it.’,” Ms Wood said.
“Last year, we raised over $14,000.
“A lot of support has gone behind it from my family and friends.”
After succeeding in raising approximately $25,000 from the past two fundraisers, the local sporting club is now aiming to raise at least $5000 to bring the total to $30,000.
The Wood family has a special connection with YGFNC.
Jasmine Wood plays goal defence for the B Grade Netball and is a vice-captain of the team.
Her brother, Sam Wood, plays for the Senior Football and is a co-captain of the team.
Both spent their childhood within the club where they fell in love with each sport they now love to play.
Although they left the club for a while, they came back to their hometown club about four years ago and have played for the senior teams ever since.
Their parents, Peter and Sandra Wood, were committee members of the YGFNC, and Peter Wood used to coach football for the club as well.
Mr Peter Wood is still involved in the club as a big fan, coming to the game each week to support both netball and football teams.
The Pink Sports Day will be held on Saturday 9 August at the Yarra Glen Recreation Reserve when Yarra Glen takes on Powelltown.
To support the fundraiser, please visit the following website, pinksportsday.bcna.org.au/myfundraising/2477/ygfnc-pink-sports-day-3
Valley FC huge upset win
By Sean Marler
It was celebrations a plenty at Millgrove Soccer Field on Saturday when the bottom placed Valley FC thirds upset Vic Harbour FC on the hallowed home turf.
Playing with a full strength team and vocal supporter base, Valley FC came out like raging bulls, applying solid pressure from the get go and attacking the ball like purring Peruvian panthers.
An amazing header by Alex Oldfield put Valley up 1-0, and from here, the boys lifted a notch, peppering away and running in packs.
The second half was the stuff that round ball dreams are made off, as Valley FC lifted into super gear, driving deep, expanding play and de-
fending with rock solid pressure.
Goalkeeper Fin McClaughin was simply stunning and proving impenetrable at the net.
His supporting backs were playing with true Valley heart spirit that is the backbone of this special club.
Up field, the flankers and forwards were operating Iike a well oiled crankshaft, that culminated in a ripping long range goal to Liam Spicer, Valley up 2-0.
Shortly after, Riley Patten slotted an absolute cherry and the hometown hero’s were up 3-0.
Vic Harbour FC scored a great goal, and were a bit unlucky to not score again.
Mason Love played a fabulous game as did captain Stu Ryder, while Manu Litchfield and Ray both shone in defence.
Final score Valley defeated Vic Harbour 3-1.
Valley FC defeated Vic Harbour 3-1. (Supplied)
(L-R) Sam, Peter and Jasmin Wood. (Supplied)
Peter, Sandra, Jasmin and Sam Wood.
The minute of silence took place in honour of Sandra Wood’s passing at the 2023 Pink Sports Day event.
Inflatable Pink Lady BCNA gave to the club to borrow for the day, (L-R) Riley Shanks and Jasmin Wood.
Women who helped organise the day in the past, (l-R) Michele Young, Jasmin Wood, Lauren Bull and Riley Shanks.
Hurricanes in Cup triumph
By Sarah Bailey
The U16 Hurricanes’ victory in a knockout tussle against Berwick was among the high points of Saturday’s game day at Don Road.
Healesville U16 Hurricanes 2–1 Berwick Blues
The sun broke through just in time for kickoff in the U16 Girls Cup knockout clash at Don Road.
Berwick enjoyed the benefit of a strong wind in the first half and managed to convert their only real opportunity, a long-range effort that found the back of the net against the run of play.
Healesville, while dominant in possession, went into half time trailing 0–1.
With the wind at their backs in the second half, the Hurricanes stepped up their intensity.
The breakthrough came when Kiah C latched onto a loose ball and calmly slotted it home to draw the teams level.
Healesville continued to press, and their patience was rewarded when a well-worked team build-up was finished expertly by Mia K to take the lead.
The final whistle blew with the score at 2–1 to the Hurricanes.
It was a great team performance, with every player contributing.
Teah V stood strong in goal, commanding her area with confidence, while Ava H provided composure and drive in midfield.
Up front, Kendi L-T was a constant threat, linking up play and keeping the Berwick defence under pressure.
The Hurricanes’ win secures their place in the semi-final against Knox.
Healesville Senior Women 1–1 Waverley City FC
Healesville controlled much of the first half, but Waverley – currently third on the ladder –remained a threat on the counterattack.
The visitors applied pressure late in the half, but the teams went into the break locked at 0–0.
The second half began with a setback for Healesville when left back Caera was forced off early with an ankle injury.
Despite kicking into the wind, Healesville began to create chances.
A sharp attacking passage saw Mia deliver a clever assist, with Tess calmly finishing to give the home side a 1–0 lead.
Waverley hit back soon after with a long clearance that caught the wind and sailed into the net – a freak goal that even Healesville’s courageous and skilful keeper Summer couldn’t prevent.
Healesville pushed hard in the final minutes, creating several chances to reclaim the lead, but Waverley’s keeper held firm under pressure.
Sarah provided strong leadership in the midfield, Ava was energetic and creative going forward, and Kiah impressed with her pace and work rate on the wing.
Tess remained a constant threat up front and took her goal well.
Every player contributed to the result, in-
cluding six U16 girls who had already played earlier that morning and still stepped up confidently at senior level.
Healesville were without four regular players and their head coach due to mid-season holidays, making the performance even more impressive against a top-three opponent.
Healesville Senior Men 0–1 Dandy Casuals
At home at Don Road, it was a subdued start by the Reds, who had several early half chances but no real shots of note.
Dandy used their physical presence and worked their way into the game.
Healesville’s best chance of the half fell to Daniel T, who saw his header go just wide of the far post after great work from Peter F, while the away side hit the outside of the post with a shot from outside the box.
Early in the second half Dandy scored a header from a great cross and proceeded to park the bus.
Healesville huffed and puffed but couldn’t blow the house down.
Dandy rode their luck at times but were desperate in defence and probably deserved to hang on for the three points.
Healesville will dust themselves down and go again next week after suffering their first loss of the season.
Healesville U10 Falcons 7–1 MUFC
Away at Maroondah, the Falcons began on the front foot and were one goal to the good within seconds of kickoff, with Colton applying the finish.
Toohey and Hall rack up 49
By Ron Hottes
Wednesday 16 July, Stableford:
With a cold day facing the field, and some scattered showers about, top scores were never the order of the day.
But two members rose to the occasion, posting a very pleasing 37 points.
Unfortunately, for the club captain, Robert Ferguson’s back nine was better than Peter Bell’s.
So, Fergusn got the ‘chokkies’ and Mr Whitehead has to be content with the runner up voucher.
Unsurprisingly, balls reached down to 33.
The five NTPs on offer were all claimed, as follows: Garry Vollmer (3rd), Ken-White (5th), president Meredith (9th) and a special effort by Peter Bell, claiming both back nine NTPs. Great shooting, Belly.
Saturday 19 July, Two-Ball B/Ball Stableford:
With a mid-year presentation to follow, there was always going to be a healthy field contesting this event.
With some pleasant winter weather to go with it (although very windy), the day was
made for some serious scores.
The most serious pair should have been the two old mates, Fergie and Dazza.
Mr Ferguson, is in a rare vein of form currently, having won the midweek event this week.
Darryl Ward just went along for the ride, chipping in when Rob needed his help.
Their score of 45 points should have won the day.
But, in a rare display of pure talent, Clint Toohey and David Hall racked up 49 monumental points to blow every other result away. Great shooting, Clint and David. There was a ball rundown, and it extended to 43 only.
There were five separate NTP winners this day, them being: Stuart Patrick (3rd), Chris Leighton (5th), Hatty, (9th) David “Pup” Lever (12th) and finally to Craig Staggard (15th).
The V.V.Vs: No comp on for the V.V.Vs this week due to lack of numbers.
They kept on the front foot and the game was playing in MUFC’s half.
Maverick scored a quick double.
Nate was next to get on the scoresheet to make it 4–0 within in the first 10 minutes.
Maverick wasn’t content with his two goals, so he scored another two before half time.
The second half started more slowly.
MUFC began to get a bit of joy and had a few efforts on goal.
Nate finished off the scoring for the Falcons to make it 7–0.
MUFC managed to score with a breakaway goal before the final whistle.
Healesville U8 White Pumas 2–0 Lilydale SC Blue
During the 2023–24 Taylor Swift world tour, psychologists described a phenomenon of ‘collective effervescence’ at the stadiums.
If you were within a 1km radius of pitch 4 at Don Road at approximately 10.05am last Saturday, chances are you would be familiar with that feeling of euphoria, as the Pumas executed a magnificent set play resulting in a goal.
Healesville applied the pressure from the outset and was unlucky not to score in the first half, with Will and James peppering the goal.
Keeper Otto was iron clad, keeping a donut on the score sheet.
Displaying fancy footwork in his debut game, Hugh deserves a special mention.
In the second half the magic happened.
A strategic switch saw Campbell placed up front.
With Will on a fast break, and the entire parental group screaming that Campbell was open, Will delivered a cross of beauty, which Campbell dispatched into the back of the net. Chaos ensued.
More joy resulted moments later when James put a long-range bullet into the back of the net. There was obvious improvement from the entire team, with Fletcher, Auggie, Tom and Jim all rotating through defence and midfield and showing amazing skills.
Other results:
Healesville U12 Diamonds 0-1 Blackburn Penguins
Healesville U12 White Wolves 2-4 Knox Force
Goals: Jono H, Alex P.
Healesville U16s 4-3 Gideon’s Warriors
Goals: Kieran (2), Charlie.
Horse Talk - winners and feeding tips
By Anita Prowse
Winners from Wednesdays midweek dressage series at Shirley Heights EC: Advanced - Emma Dalton on Electra-doeska PB; Medium - Jessica Sharp on Revelwood Synergy; Elementary - Kylie Pedder on Carool Furst Danali; Novice - Kate Chamberlain on Rubato R; Prelim - Maddy Philippedis on Concerto MD; Preparatory - Rachel Beath on Nothing But Class Tips for managing horses recovering from laminitis:
When your horse/pony is recovering from laminitis it cannot have access to any pasture - therefore it’s important to ensure they have constant access to long stem, low sugar roughage such as Rhodes hay, Teff hay, Lucerne hay, Meadow hay or even a sugar tested hay.
For horses and ponies prone to obesity and EMS, we can provide very low starch/ sugar diets and still meet roughage requirements through low sugar/starch hay.
The most common mistake we find owner’s make is immediately restricting
access to roughage (pasture and hay) and putting them in a yard or ‘The Jenny Craig’ paddock. This not only negatively impacts the horses/pony’s digestive system but their overall health and wellbeing. All horses/ponies require a minimum 1.5 per cent of their body weight in roughage per day for optimal health and wellbeing.
Calculation: Bodyweight (kg) x 0.015 = Roughage (kg) per day.
We recommend horses (especially the good doers) be provided hay in a slow feeder. Slow feeder hay nets or tubs increase the horses/ponies time spent eating.
This acts as a boredom buster, mimics natural grazing behaviour, and increases time spent chewing and producing saliva which contains buffering factors that protect the stomach and prevent ulcer formation.
We also recommend providing a hard feed (concentrate or full feed) or a vitamin/ mineral supplement to meet their essential nutrient requirements alongside roughage. Please keep an eye on those prone to laminitis in coming weeks.
Kieran O scored two goals for the U16s in Saturday’s Cup match against Gideon’s Warriors. (Supplied)
The U12 White Diamonds and mascot Luna. (Supplied)
The White Wolves fought hard against top-of-theladder Knox. (Supplied)
Wandin claimed a hard fought 28 point victory over ladder leaders Olinda in windy conditions on Saturday, in a battle between first and second on the AFL Outer East ladder.
Despite the testing wind, Aaron Mullett continued his dominant season, kicking his 100th goal in a milestone performance that further underlined his impact in 2024.
The first quarter was neck and neck, with both sides kicking accurately between the sticks and only one behind kicked.
That single behind though was what put Wandin in front by a single point with the first term ending 25-24.
Second quarter was a quiet one - only a single goal kicked by Mullett and two behinds each for both Wandin and Olinda.
Wandin managed to come out the second quarter with a small lead of 33-26, but Olinda quickly closed back in on the Dogs.
In the third term, Wandin hit a handful of behinds but a goal from GriersmithRowe put Olinda within two points of Wandin as they head into the fourth quarter.
In typical Wandin fashion, they exploded into the fourth with back to back goals from Mullett and Garner.
Scharenberg kept Olinda in the competition, though Atkins and Mullett polished off a determined fourth quarter performance from Wandin, securing their spot at the top of the ladder.
Final scores 72-44.
The Bulldogs were well served by Brodie Atkins, Chayce Black and Daniel Willis, who were instrumental across the ground.
For Olinda, Matt Sharenberg was a standout in a losing side, providing plenty of resistance.
The day also marked a significant milestone for the club, with Wandin celebrating 20 years of netball – a proud moment recognised by past and present players and supporters.
Burras battle through windy conditions to claim victory
Warburton-Millgrove Football Netball Club report, Round 14:
A bit of travelling happened on the weekend.
The women’s footy started over at Wandin, the windy conditions made for a difficult match. It started slower with Wandin seven points up at first break.
Burras fought back and had a five point lead at half time.
The gained some momentum had secured a 2.2-14, 4.13-37 win.
Scarlett Potter, Lily Pagels, Gabby Woods, Madi Ward, Sally McIntosh and Ruby Ross were top performers.
Under 18s were over at Yea taking on Yea.
Yea had control of first quarter with an 11 point lead, but Burra turned it on in the second kicking five goals to their none.
They kept going in the second half and took home a nice win 6.5-41 to 9.9-63.
Kobe Wunhym, Mahliki Balde, Brayden Tamme, Alex White, Reece Irvine and Jai De Graaf were the best players.
Reserves took the field at Powelltown to start the day over there.
Some more windy conditions and they had the
game with a half time score of 9-32 Burras way.
Burras turned the second quarter into theirs, running away with a final score of 1.4-10 to 20.15135.
Liam Barnard, Tyler Bert, Tom Campbell, Dale Morris, Matt Sidari and Ben Gray were some of the top performers.
Senior finished off the footy for the round.
They had a mega first quarter, kicking 7.9 to 0.2. The game was very much in Burras hands, as they finished with a total score of 5.7-37 to 25.22172.
Tom Barr receive the best on ground medal.
Lachy Hewitt, Toby Mitchell, Ben Pretty and Mitch Gordon were also among the best.
Under 17s netball had a tough morning, coming from playing top team Seville twice this week, they took on Powelltown in the morning. Even start for both sides, and Powelly had the 3 goal lead at Half time. Powelly took control of the second and took the 20-12 win. Amarli Weir, Rylee Bond and Issy Maurici were the top performers.
D grade on next and they had a strong start with a 3-27 half time score.
There was no slowing down for the Burras, as
they took the game 12-59.
Tiahn Syme, Tayah Humphrey and Mel Hancock were the stars of the match.
C grade also took the game in their hands from the start.
They had a half time score of 5-28 and continued to pick it up in second half.
Burras took home the win 8-61, with Sienna Muir, Tayla Ferguson and Cam Partel all having top games.
B grade also had a strong start.
A 4-16 first quarter, that turned to 5-38 at half time.
Their game completed with a 15-74 finals score with Aleigha Walters, Jordana Butcher and Zoe Timoney being the stars of the match.
A grade finished the netball off for the day.
They too also had a strong first half with a score line of 10-37.
Their secs half was bigger, putting up another 46 goals to Powelltown’s five.
Finishing with a total score of 15-83, Amanda Finn, Karly Wappett and Morgan Wyatt were top performers for the day.
Over to Alexandra and Thornton next weekend.
Aaron Mullett (3 Wandin) reached 100 goals against Olinda on 19 July. (File: 430149)
The Burras faced Powelltown this week in the netball. (Supplied)
The 2025 Monbulk D Grade squad. (Supplied)
A ruck contest. (Supplied)
River Pigs go down to strong Alexandra
By David Ball
Yarra Glen welcomed Alexandra to battle in fine but very windy conditions.
With the River Pigs needing to win their senior footy encounter to hold on to a finals spot, they started well by winning the toss and have first use of the strong wind.
Sadly, they were unable to capitalise and at the half way mark of the quarter there had been no score either way.
When Yarra Glen finally goaled, Alexandra answered quickly and followed up another to take a handy seven point lead.
Yarra Glen fell down going forward as they continually kicked to the advantage of the Alex defenders who were too strong in the air for the small Yarra Glen forward line.
Alex added four goals in the second with the aid of the breeze, using it well and keeping Yarra Glen to just the one goal.
The third quarter was a scrappy affair with the windy conditions causing issues for both sides.
Yarra Glen failed to connect and convert going forward as Alex kept up the pressure to see only a goal each scored.
Kicking with the wind in the last and with a 33 point lead, The Rebels were in control and whilst Yarra Glen produced their best quarter of the game, kicking three goals into the wind, it was too little too late as they went down Yarra Glen 6.4 to Alexandra 13.9.
Best for Yarra Glen: Jayden Capuano, Simon Van Der Westhuizen, Aussie Smith, Blake Binion, Marcus Kikidopolous, Dylan Jarvis.
Goalkickers: Blake Binion 2, Kurt Raymond, Jake Ferris, Aussie Smith and Max DePina 1 each.
The Yarra Glen Reserves were looking to back up last week’s win but they struggled in the difficult conditions into the wind in the first and found themselves 38 points down at quarter time.
Whilst Heath Chamberlain battle hard and goaled for Yarra Glen, they turned the ball over
too often as Alex added four goals.
The undermanned River Pigs battled hard in the second half and only conceded the five goals.
Yarra Glen were well beaten, losing 1.1 to Alexandra 14.16.
Best players: Heath Chamberlain, Matt McKenzie, Keithy Gerovasilis, Max Murphy, Dylan Harding, Alastair Lowrie.
Goalkickers: Heath Chamberlain.
The Under 18’s played Alexandra for the second week in a row, needing a win to get themselves back in the race for finals.
Down on numbers with a few injuries, Yarra Glen had to battle into the strong wind in the first quarter.
They were able to restrict Alex to just the one, with desperate defence contributing to Alex’s six points.
Whilst being only 12 points down at quarter, the Yarra Glen boys couldn’t make any headway using the wind and failed to score in the second.
In a great third quarter effort, Yarra Glen outscored Alexandra to go into three quarter time just 12 points down and coming home with a strong wind.
Whilst the ball spent all of the last quarter in Yarra Glen’s forward line, the Alex pressure and the swirling wind made it difficult to score.
Yarra Glen had their chances but could only kick points to lose by nine points, Yarra Glen 1.1 to Alexandra 2.
Best players: Xander Dalton, Lincoln Brain, Spencer Boers, Callum Sanders, Sam Gloury, Alastair Lowrie.
Goalkicker, Callum Sanders.
The Yarra Glen netballers also faced Alexandra and with the strong wind shooting goals was going to be a challenge.
The Yarra Glen A Grade girls got off to a great start and led 20 to five at quarter time.
In the second and third quarters, they continued to dominate and stretched their lead to 27 at the last change.
Lara Wandin-Collins and Georgia Crundale
Tough day at home for all Coldstream FNC teams
By Hannah Chappell
There was plenty of excitement in Coldstream on Saturday as Coldstream Football Netball Club hosted a full day of home football followed by its annual 10k draw, highlighted by the EFNL Match of the Round featuring the Women’s team in a top-of-the-table clash against the undefeated Heathmont.
From the opening bounce, it was clear the match would live up to its billing.
were combing well in goals and the defence was tight.
To their credit, the Alex girls kept fighting and outscored the Yarra girls, who finished with a 56 to 37 victory.
Best Players: Lara Wandin-Collins, Georgia Crundale, Gemma Ryan.
Yarra Glen B Grade sitting fourth on the ladder needed a win to solidify their place.
They started well and after leading 17 to five at quarter time, they continued to consistently convert going forward and defended well to run out with a comfortable 59 to 22 win.
Best Players: Meaghan Carter, Imojean Parsons, Skye Corrigan.
The Yarra Glen C Grade went goal for goal with their Alex opponents in the first quarter.
In a great second quarter they played some of their best netball for a while to take a six goal lead into the main break.
Adding 10 goals to seven in the third set them up for a solid 39 to 31 victory.
Best players were: Abbey Page, Ash Shanks, Tayla Pinkster.
With D Grade starting the day for Yarra Glen, they had to battle a strong wind as they took on Alexandra, a team that beat them in their earlier encounter.
Needing a win to keep a finals place in the frame, they showed great early form to be six goals up at quarter time.
In the second and third quarters, they stared to master the conditions to go into the last quarter 11 goals ahead.
Whilst only being able to add one goal in the last, the strengthening wind also made it difficult for Alex to score enough to put any real pressure on Yarra Glen, who finished with a well-earned 23 to 16 victory.
Best players: Ruby Bennett, Phoebe Boot, Lily Dove.
Next week Yarra Glen Vets travel to Mt Evelyn for a 5pm start on Saturday, whilst all the other teams have a bye.
Coldstream matched Heathmont’s pressure and intensity across the first three quarters, going goal-for-goal in a physical, finals-like contest.
With both sides showing their class and desperation, the game remained in the balance until the final term.
It was in that last quarter, however, where Heathmont found another gear and kicked away to secure the win.
While the result didn’t go their way, Coldstream showed they belong among the league’s elite and took plenty of positives from the contest.
Following the Women’s game, the Reserves took on a strong Scoresby outfit and found themselves under pressure early.
Scoresby controlled the game from the outset, leading at every change and eventually running away with a comprehensive win.
Coldstream struggled to find rhythm against the visitors’ polished ball use and physicality, and while the effort was there, the Cougars were unable to match Scoresby’s four-quarter performance.
The Seniors rounded out the day against top-of-the-table Scoresby and started strongly, matching the competition’s best in an impressive first quarter that had the home crowd fired up.
The contest was tight early, but as the game wore on, Scoresby began to take control. Their class and structure shone through in the second half, pulling away to record a solid win.
Despite the loss, there were promising signs, particularly in the first term.
As a club, all three teams will take important learnings from the weekend, from how they prepare and respond to pressure, to how they execute for four full quarters.
While results varied, the commitment to improvement remains the same across the board.
Coaches and players alike will now shift their focus to the final rounds of the season, fine-tuning their structures, building on the positives, and addressing the gaps exposed by top-tier opponents.
Senior player Matt Langdon kicking the ball. (Supplied)
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