Mail - Mt Evelyn Star Mail - 12th August 2025

All part of solution

By Mikayla van Loon

The first week of August each year marks Homelessness Week. A time for services and organisations to come together and advocate for change to house the country’s most vulnerable.

But this year, with a theme of Homelessness Action Now, outer eastern services echoed the need for impactful change as more and more people fall through the cracks and into housing stress.

Anchor Community Care chief executive officer Heidi Tucker said homelessness is starting to affect sections of the community that would have normally been spared from rental or mortgage stress.

“(Services) are just seeing more and more crises and having people coming in where two people are working, and we’ve never seen that before,” she said.

Compounding this is an overwhelmed sector of support workers becoming “incredibly pressurised” by the growing demand.

That’s why on Tuesday 5 August, the Eastern Homelessness Network (EHN) organised the Homeward Bound Walk at Ringwood Lake to connect and engage leading support services and their frontline workers in conversations but also as a celebration of the work they do and continue to do across the outer eastern suburbs.

The walk also linked with the Victorian Homelessness Network’s Houses at Parliament Campaign, calling on the State and Federal governments to support the construction of 60,000 social and community houses.

“Homelessness is not inevitable. With enough public and community homes and the right support, everyone in the community can be permanently housed,” EHN coordinator Jo McDonald said.

As women and children emerge as one of the largest cohorts to find themselves without a home, Council to Homeless Persons chief executive officer Deborah Di Natale said sadly it’s taking northwards of 18 months for that woman and child to find secure housing.

Ms Di Natale said over the course of many years, not much has changed in terms of advocacy but that needs to change.

“I just want us to all get together to solve it…I feel confident and optimistic that we’re going to be able to make change.”

For more, turn to pages 4 and 5

Eastern Homelessness Network coordinator Jo McDonald and Council to Homeless Persons chief executive officer Deborah Di Natale at the Homeward Bound Walk. (Mikayla van Loon: 494773)

Better framework needed

By Callum Ludwig

State Coroner John Cain has used the case of a 78-year-old woman, who died in Maroondah Hospital in 2020, to highlight the need for an adult safeguarding framework.

The woman, identified only as YTR, was cared for by one of her two children (IJN) and was living in their family home in a regional Victorian town.

At the time of her death, YTR had a large lymphoma (cancer in the lymphatic system) in her right abdominal area, was malnourished and was suffering from sepsis, with large pressure sores having developed. YTR’s medical history also included schizophrenia, depression, underactive thyroid, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and potassium deficiency.

IJN called Triple Zero at 6.18am on 3 November 2020, reporting that YTR’s legs were swollen, had a sore neck, had not been eating or drinking and groaned in pain when her shoulder was touched.

Paramedics arrived to find YTR sitting on the couch with her head slumped forward and a strong smell of faeces and urine. It was later clear that her clothes where encrusted with faecal matter and urine and had stuck to the couch where she was sat, with IJR confirming she had been sat in the same spot for about a week. YTR also presented as confused, in a low conscious state, with low blood pressure and had a body temperature of 35 degrees.

After arriving at a regional hospital, YTR was administered antibiotics and painkillers and had multiple bruises on her back, swollen legs, pres-

sure ulcers on her buttocks, lower back and each heel and maceration (skin softening and breakdown) in the perineal area.

YTR was later transferred to Maroondah Hospital’s intensive care unit after beds weren’t available at the Royal Melbourne or Austin hospitals, and staff there notified Victoria Police due to their concerns about her condition.

Detectives from the Croydon Family Violence Investigation Unit (FVIU) visited the hospital and spoke to one of the treating clinicians, and received information about YTR’s condition, with uniform officers from the regional police station and the FVIU later executing a search warrant at the family home.

IJN showed police around the home, including YTR’s old mattress in the backyard which he claimed had been urinated on, the laundry which been flooded by an overflowing sink and a toilet which police assumed was out-of-order due to the toilet bowl being black.

IJN was arrested and taken for interview, where he said YTR had not taken her tablets for a week but he was unsure why, could not recall the last time she visited her GP, was uncertain what her prescriptions are for and that he believed she hadn’t eaten since AFL Grand Final day that year on 24 October, though she may have eaten a bit of ice cream on 2 November and he had encouraged her to drink through a straw.

IJN said YTR’s condition declined from September 2020 when she became unable to mobilise and didn’t want anyone to come to the house to help with cooking and cleaning. She had been on the couch for about a week and he was unable

to move her, but she refused when he offered to call an ambulance and refused to see a doctor. IJN claimed he had tried to wash her face and hair as she had not had a shower since September and that when she was previously in her bed, had lifted her into a chair and pushed it to the bathroom for her to relieve herself in the bathtub.

Police applied for a Family Violence Intervention Order (FVIO) against IJN and YTR’s daughter PLK became the point of contact for Maroondah Hospital.

A CT scan revealed the cancer YTR was suffering from, and YTR began to fall in and out of consciousness and her condition deteriorated. After the decision was made to transfer YTR to palliative care, she died on 11 November 2020.

Police comprehensively investigated whether IJN’s actions or omissions contributed to YTR’s condition and eventually, no charges were laid in relation to the death. In response to a request for comment from the Coroner’s Court, IJN said IJN he did not know there was anything wrong with his mother and she did not mention that anything was wrong.

An expert report from a geriatrician later opined that at the point YTR presented to the regional hospital, her frailty meant that she was unlikely to tolerate any treatment other than palliative care by the time her lymphoma was discovered.

The geriatrician also concluded the extent of the pain and suffering YTR experienced was dependent on potential nerve damage suffered as a result of the lymphoma, which may have led to the development of her pressure sores.

Mr Cain said in the report that this case highlights the need for a comprehensive adult safeguarding framework to protect at-risk adults.

“Victoria does not have a comprehensive adult safeguarding framework for protecting atrisk adults from abuse, neglect and exploitation. Therefore, if PLK or YTR’s GP wanted to raise concerns about YTR’s wellbeing, there was no specific agency that they could contact,” it reads.

“If adult safeguarding legislation and/or an agency were implemented in Victoria, YTR would have likely met the criteria for an adult safeguarding response due to her care and support needs, her mental health conditions, her immobility, her risk of experiencing neglect and the fact that her care and support needs likely would have prevented her from protecting herself.”

“At-risk adults, particularly those who live in their own homes, continue to experience abuse and neglect at the hands of people known to them, and the service sector is not equipped to respond to this risk.”

Mr Cain cited a previous finding of his where he made 10 recommendations to the Office of the Public Advocate (OPA) and the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH) under similar circumstances. The DFFH responded that those recommendations had been taken into account and that the Victorian Government is working with the Disability Reform Ministerial Council in responding to the Disability Royal Commission, which also recommended adult safeguarding legislation. Mr Cain endorsed recommendations four to 10 of his previous finding in relation to YTR’s case.

Melbourne Water seeking community experiences

By Callum Ludwig

Melbourne Water are calling on Yarra Ranges residents to help guide the updating of flood maps in the region.

Community engagement is open until 24 August and with the rise of floodings events in the region in recent years, will be important for management and preparation for future flooding events.

Melbourne Water’s general manager of service strategy Anna Lucas said once finalised, these updated maps will underpin Municipal Emergency Management Plans, land-use controls and investments in climate-ready infrastructure.

“We’re calling on Yarra Ranges residents to share their observations where floodwaters reached their street or home, what caused the flooding and when it happened. We are also looking for any photos of historical flooding in Yarra Ranges,” she said.

“Your insights will help validate our risk projections for new maps, uncover new hotspots and inform emergency planning. It’s your local knowledge that brings the real picture to life.”

The following flood maps are being updated, and Melbourne Water are seeking feedback for: Cardinia, Toomuc, Deep and Ararat creeks. Corhanwarrabul Creek.

Dandenong Creek and tributaries (Mordialloc, Eumemmerring, Monbulk & Ferny creeks).

Stringybark and Woori Yallock creeks. Brushy Creek. Little Yarra River. Hoddles Creek.

Olinda Creek.

Steels and Pauls creeks. Watts River. Stormwater drains.

Yarra River.

Residents who have recently submitted information and/or photos as part of the Yarra Ranges Shire Council stormwater engagement have already had their feedback passed on to Melbourne Water and do not need to submit it again.

A summary of the information that was passed on by Yarra Ranges Shire Council can be found here: hdp-au-prod-app-mwyoursay-files.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws. com/4117/5428/1633/Yarra_Ranges_residents_ stories_about_flooding_.pdf

On the engagement website, Melbourne Water are asking residents to describe their past experiences with flooding, including the location, the depth of the water, what they think caused the flooding, the date of the flooding (exact or approximate) and to supply any photos or videos they may have. The engagement is part of Melbourne Water’s efforts to update flood information across the entire

Olinda Creek’s flood map is one set to be updated. (File: 303428)

Code 1 responses still lagging behind

The average ambulance response times have been released for the last quarter of 2024/25, with mixed results in the Outer East.

Ambulance Victoria (AV) crews responded to 98,874 Code 1 incidents (requiring urgent paramedic and hospital care) between April 1 and June 30 2025, with official targets aiming to attend to these within 15 minutes for 85 per cent of incidents state-wide and within 15 minutes for 90 per cent in centres with populations greater than 7500.

AV‘s acting executive director of regional operations Michael Georgiou said demand for ‘lights and sirens’ ambulances fell by 3.5 per cent between April and June, compared with the same time last year, coinciding with an AV community information campaign to save paramedics for emergencies.

“April to June last year was AV’s busiest three months on record – with 102,419 Code 1 emergencies,” he said.

“I thank our highly skilled paramedics and first responders who do a remarkable job providing best care to their communities, each and every day,”

“We’re grateful to Victorians who are choosing to use alternative care for non-urgent issues — it means ambulances are available faster for emergencies. That community effort is helping us save lives.”

Here’s how response times have changed since the same time last year and the last quarter in our local government areas:

In the Yarra Ranges, 52.5 per cent of the 2045 Code 1 incidents were responded to within 15 minutes, with an average response time of 17 minutes and 51 seconds. This is an improvement from the same time last year (49.7 per cent of 2141 incidents, 18 minutes and 10 seconds) but worse than the previous quarter (54.7 per cent of 2012 incidents, 17 minutes and 19 seconds).

In Maroondah, 69.6 per cent of the 1595 Code 1 incidents were responded to within 15 minutes, with an average response time of 15 minutes and three seconds. This is worse than both the same time last year (71.8 per cent of 1610 incidents, 14 minutes and seven seconds) and the previous quarter (71.6 per cent of 1548 incidents, 14 minutes and 18 seconds).

In Knox, 69.2 per cent of the 2071 Code 1 incidents were responded to within 15 minutes, with an average response time of 14 minutes and 43 seconds. This is an improvement from the same time last year (67.6 per cent of 2104 incidents, 14 minutes and 57 seconds) but worse than the previous quarter (72.1 per cent of 1963 incidents, 13 minutes and 55 seconds).

In Cardinia, 55.6 per cent of the 1661 Code 1 incidents were responded to within 15 minutes, with an average response time of 17 minutes and four seconds. This is an improvement from both the same time last year (50.2 per cent of 1814 incidents, 18 minutes and 21 seconds) and the previous quarter (54 per cent of 1615 incidents, 17 minutes and 18 seconds).

Mr Georgiou said from April to June 2025, the state-wide average response time to Code 1 emergencies was 15 minutes and 27 seconds –down from 15 minutes and 37 seconds a year ago.

“There has also been an improvement in the percentage of Code 1 cases responded to within 15 minutes,” he said.

“We’ve already seen a 3.7 per cent jump in Code 1 demand since the first three months of 2025, winter is always our busiest time. Our paramedics are focused on reaching the sickest patients first — but every day, more than 500 calls to Triple Zero (000) don’t need an emergency ambulance.”

“There are many options people can access when they need timely medical care and health advice but don’t need an emergency ambulance,

including the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department and Urgent Care Clinics.”

During the most recent quarter, AV crews across Victoria responded to 65.3 per cent of Code 1 cases within the state-wide target of 15 minutes, up from 64.2 per cent a year ago, but slightly down from 65.6 per cent in the three months prior.

In the Metropolitan Region crews responded to 69,275 Code 1 cases between April and June 2025, down from 71,907 last year, but up from 66,442 three months ago.

Compared with the same time last year, performance improved in 53 of the 79 Local Government Areas (LGAs).

Mr Georgiou said the new Standards for Safe and Timely Ambulance and Emergency Care are already making a difference — improving patient flow in hospitals and helping our crews get back on the road sooner.

“Our expert Secondary Triage team — made up of nurses and paramedics — plays a vital role by connecting people with the right care and freeing up ambulances for life-threatening emergencies. Between April and June alone, they redirected 46,015 non-urgent cases away from an emergency response,” he said.

“And our Medium Acuity Transport Service (MATS) crews dedicated for less-urgent calls have attended more than 100,000 cases since starting in September 2021, freeing up more ambulances to respond to the most critically-ill patients,”

“We’re grateful to our hospital partners for their efforts — it’s helping us reach more patients, faster.

117 new graduate paramedics have joined Ambulance Victoria since June and earlier this year, the largest-ever single intake of 30 Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) intern paramedics were also employed.

IN BRIEF

Woman dies after Yering collision

A woman died in hospital following a collision in Yering last month.

Emergency services were called to reports a Toyota Estima and a Toyota CH-R collided on the Melba Highway about 5.40pm on Monday 28 July.

At the time of the collision the passenger of the CH-R, a 94-year-old Yarra Glen woman, was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

ThedriversoftheCH-RandtheEstimawere both taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, with CCTV/dashcam footage or any information that could assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au

Looking for Ford Ute

Lilydale Police are seeking the public’s assistance to locate the following vehicle stolen from the carpark of Supercheap Auto at 489 Maroondah Highway in Lilydale on Saturday 9 August between 12.35pm and 1.30pm.

The vehicle is a 1985 Ford F-100 utility with registration OBM100.

This vehicle holds extreme sentimental value to the owner who would love for it to located and returned.

A comment on the Facebook post said it was spotted on Warburton Highway going through Seville East hill on Sunday 10 August.

Any information can be passed to Lilydale Police on (03) 97392300 or Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

Reference 250040560.

New warning for car owners

Crime Stoppers Victoria and Victoria Police are urging Yarra Ranges residents and all Victorians to take an active role in protecting their vehicles, as part of a new statewide campaign targeting a sharp rise in car thefts driven by thieves using new sophisticated technologies

The Level Up Against Car Theft campaign empowers the community with practical steps to reduce their risk of car theft and to report suspicious activity to Crime Stoppers.

The campaign responds to dramatic increases in motor vehicle crime across the state. In the year to March 2025, 31,551 vehicles were stolen in Victoria, a 47.1 per cent increase year on year.

Thefts from vehicles also rose sharply, reaching 82,414 offences, a 39.3 per cent jump from the previous year.

Offenders are increasingly targeting vehicles with keyless entry and push-start systems, using devices that mimic or override factory settings.

Makes such as Holdens, Toyotas and Subarus are being stolen at three to four times the rate recorded five years ago.

While police are actively pursuing offenders, vehicle owners have an important role to play in prevention.

The campaign encourages the use of straightforward anti-theft items such as OBD port locks, steering wheel locks, Faraday pouches, and anti-theft number plate screws, which are small investments that can make a big difference.

The latest Ambulance Victoria response times have been released. (File: 460041)

HOMELESSNESS WEEK

Action over advocacy

By Mikayla van Loon

A prominent sentiment of this Homelessness Week was action over advocacy, as local services feel the brunt of rising rents and family violence.

This was the purpose of the Eastern Homelessness Network’s (EHN) Homeward Bound Walk on Tuesday 5 August, to bring community, government representatives and leading support organisations together.

In the five years to the most recent Census in 2021, homelessness in Victoria increased by 24 per cent to over 30,000 people.

In the year 2023 to 24, over 13,000 people in Melbourne’s inner and outer east sought assistance from homelessness services.

Support services have noted that they are unable to respond to the increasing number of households that lack a safe place to live.

Uniting VicTas’ homelessness and support services senior manager, Maidie Graham, said it is becoming evident that a lack of social housing and higher rents is exacerbating the situation.

“With more and more people struggling to afford the private rental market, the demand for affordable private rentals is outstripping supply,” she said.

“Combine this with a chronic shortage of public and community housing, we are seeing record levels of homelessness.”

Anchor Community Care chief executive officer Heidi Tucker said homelessness services are seeing more working couples who typically wouldn’t have required support in the past.

“There are less supports. There are less places to catch people, and people are falling out of their housing much more than they ever were. So many people are in rental stress,” she said.

“And it only takes one thing for them to drop completely out of their private rental. Often, there can be a couple, and if they break up, neither one of them can afford the rental.

“So I think there’s that stress and pressure that’s actually on everyone. I mean, there are very few people who are getting out of this, out of the stress of it all.

“What we’re seeing, certainly in homelessness services, is that the workers are incredibly pressurised and are just seeing more and more crises and having people coming in where two people are working, and we’ve never seen that before.”

EHN Coordinator Jo McDonald said that in supporting the Victorian Homelessness Network’s Houses at Parliament Campaign, it calls for State and Federal government investment in the construction of 60,000 social and community houses.

“Homelessness is not inevitable. With enough public and community homes and the right support, everyone in the community can be permanently housed,” she said.

“The community support shows Victorians are demanding that the State and Federal Governments step up to end homelessness.”

A gathering of outer eastern support organisations like The Salvation Army, Family Access Network and Fvree, as well as people who are or have experienced homelessness, cemented the call by walking laps of Ringwood Lake and plac-

ing an origami house on display.

One third of Australians seeking homelessness assistance are in Victoria, yet the state has the lowest proportion of social housing.

Council to Homeless Persons chief executive officer Deborah Di Natale said with 66,000 applicants on Victoria’s social housing waitlist, it’s imperative that governments heed calls and act sooner rather than later.

“Every single person in Victoria and, in fact, across the country deserves the dignity of a home,” she said.

Ms Di Natale said homelessness is often hidden, but it “spans geographies, spans generations, and spans cultures”.

From research and personal stories, however, women are emerging as a large cohort of those without a home.

“It looks like a woman who is between the ages of 25 and 39, who more often than not, has a child with her under the age of 11, coming to a frontline service,” Ms Di Natale said.

“And sadly, the reality…is if that woman is living in her car, she’s not seen, nobody’s doing the advocacy piece, she’s waiting about 19 and a half months before she can get social housing.

“We need to ask ourselves as a community, what kinds of decisions is she needing to make to enable her and her child, or children, to feel safe? This should absolutely not be happening in a country like ours, and certainly should not be happening in Victoria.

“So we, at Council to Homeless Persons, are saying it’s time for us to end it.”

Another cohort, Ms Tucker said, she is particularly concerned about is young people.

“What we know is that if a young person or a child becomes homeless, it stays with them for the rest of their lives, and can affect the rest of their lives,” she said.

“Anchor is absolutely moving towards preventing youth homelessness, whichever way we do it.

“Making sure that kids who have been in care don’t exit into homelessness, young people who have experienced family violence are taken care of because, at the moment, often they’re not seeking support because they don’t see themselves as victim survivors. They think that’s somebody else, so the first time we see them is in homelessness.”

With Infrastructure Victoria highlighting a need for 60,000 social homes in the state, Ms Di Natale said there is a “road map to make it happen” and to end homelessness.

“We have to acknowledge that we’ve been saying the same thing for a long time, and it isn’t working, so we’ve had to do a lot of internal navel gazing and ask ourselves, in terms of our advocacy piece, what can we do to change this story?”

Ms Di Natale said it begins with bipartisan commitment from both sides of government and the continued push from grassroots groups.

“What we know creates change is working with local communities, our educators, our volunteers, our local services and councils who are really connected to the grassroots of your community,” she said.

“I just want us to all get together to solve it…I feel confident and optimistic that we’re going to be able to make change.”

Eastern Homelessness Network coordinator Jo McDonald and Council to Homeless Persons chief executive officer Deborah Di Natale stand in front of the origami houses display. (Mikayla van Loon: 494773)

Homeward Bound Walk participants placing their origami house on the display to represent the need for 60,000 social and community homes. (494773)

Anchor Community Care chief executive officer Heidi Tucker writing her Homelessness Week message. (494773)

Homeward Bound Walk participants wrote messages on origami houses to contribute the display. (494773)

Uniting VicTas’ homelessness and support services senior manager, Maidie Graham led proceedings. (494773)

EHN’s take on the Houses at Parliament Campaign. (494773)

The Rapid Relief Team put on a spread of food for the event. (494773)

Homeward Bound Walk participants placing their origami house on the display to represent the need for 60,000 social and community homes. (494773)

Maroondah City Council deputy mayor Linda Hancock had the honour of cutting the ribbon. (494773)

The walk was attended by many. (494773)

Bean busy for a cause

By Dongyun Kwon

The Laneway Healesville joined the other 850 local cafes across Australia for a national campaign to support homeless people on one day in Homelessness Week.

CafeSmart is an annual coffee-led campaign that unites roasters, cafes and coffee enthusiasts around the country to raise awareness and drive donations for local organisations tackling homelessness.

On Friday 8 August, those participating cafes donated $1 from every coffee sold to fund local homelessness services, with every dollar raised staying local to where it’s donated.

“It’s a fun, bright, cheerful way to donate for a great cause,” The Laneway Healesville owner Heather Alcock said.

“I love all the social media parts of it. Everything gets re-shared.”

Besides the $1 donation per coffee they sold on the day, the local cafe set up a jar on a bench where customers could make cash donations.

People also purchased the next 10 coffees upfront to raise more funds for the charity.

In its third year, The Laneway Healesville

aimed at raising another $500 to donate to the Yarra Ranges-based homelessness service Anchor.

Over the past two years, the Healesville-based cafe has successfully raised $300 to $400 each year for the same organisation.

Now in its 15th year, CafeSmart is an initiative of StreetSmart Australia and has become a trusted channel for hospitality venues and their customers to give back, locally and directly.

Since its inception, CafeSmart has raised over $2.2 million, funded over 1100 grassroots organisations, mapping funds back into the communities where they were raised – a unique model like no other in Australia, and supported tens of thousands of Australians experiencing or at risk

of homelessness.

In 2024 alone, funds raised helped provide direct support to 9300 people across the country, including meals, shelter, hygiene supplies, healthcare, phone credit, and emergency relief.

StreetSmart Australia chief executive offi-

everyday ritual into tangible support for people doing it tough,” he said.

In homelessness, families are living in hotels

A new report shows that the Victorian housing and homelessness system is struggling to meet the demands of families with children. The report highlights gaps in the system and offers solutions to keep families housed and break the intergenerational cycle of trauma and disadvantage.

Due to the limited number of beds for families in crisis supported accommodation, most families with children who present at homelessness support services are placed in hotels and motels, with stays funded by the government.

Last year, Launch Housing supported 230 families into hotels and motels. On any given night in Melbourne, Launch Housing supports up to 50 families in hotels and motels. Average stays are stretching out to 12 weeks because there is nowhere for families to go.

“Hotels and motels used to be a short-term stopgap measure for families in crisis. But there’s a dire lack of affordable rentals, limited safe and secure housing options for victim survivors of family and domestic violence and minimal supply of social housing which is leading to these long stays,” Launch Housing interim CEO Laura Mahoney said.

“We support around 50 families in hotels and motels each night, and we are just one of the many organisations supporting families during a homelessness crisis.

“Families with children who are experiencing homelessness need support and security and a pathway to permanent housing. Hotels and motels should be a last resort. They are unsafe, inappropriate for children and they can prolong the experience of homelessness and worsen trauma.”

Family homelessness is a significant and growing crisis in Australia. Last year, over 60 per cent of adult specialist homelessness service clients across Australia were women, and more than 75,000 children under the age of 18 sought help

from homelessness services.

Homelessness disproportionately affects families with children. Those most impacted include single mothers, low-income families, First Nations families, larger families, and those experiencing gender-based disadvantage.

Family and domestic violence is driving homelessness at alarming rates, and with family violence services stretched thin, victim-survivors who are unable to access a family violence refuge vacancy are turning to homelessness services for support. 54 per cent of women, young people and children seeking homelessness services in Victoria report they are also experiencing family violence.

“The current homelessness support system was originally set up when single male clients were the main group of people who required support, and that’s no longer the case. We also know more now about the impact of childhood trauma and how mental health and wellbeing complexities intersect with homelessness,” Ms Mahoney said.

“This is why we are calling for a comprehensive redesign of the housing and homelessness system where family homelessness is prevented and holistic, trauma-informed, child-safe supports are embedded in homelessness services at every step – from entry points and crisis supported accommodation to long-term housing.”

The report also shows the need to prevent homelessness in the first place by supporting families to keep their housing and unlocking a supply of affordable, family friendly housing across Victoria. During 2024, Launch Housing supported nearly 1500 families with rental assistance, and single parent families were the largest group of people seeking support maintaining their tenancy in a private rental.

The Centre for Excellence in Child and Fam-

ily Welfare is the peak body for child and family services in Victoria and Tasmania, supporting member organisations including Launch Housing who work with children, young people and their families.

The Centre’s CEO Deb Tsorbaris said the impact of homelessness and housing insecurity on children is profound and multifaceted.

“Being without a stable and familiar place to call home impacts a child’s sense of safety, security and belonging and has repercussions on almost every aspect of their lives. Family is essential to a child’s development. We need housing options that will support families in need, helping them to stay together, within their communities and their existing support networks,” she said.

“During a homelessness crisis, the most appropriate option for families with children is supported crisis supported accommodation with trauma and recovery focused practices, on-site supports and embedded programs to keep children engaged in education.”

“Launch Housing is working hard in a system that has historically not been set up to support families with children. We run a range of innovative, unique, programs to meet this unmet need which change lives and prove that there are solutions that work,” Ms Mahoney said.

“Government, communities and services must unite around a shared vision and policy response for ending homelessness for families with children.”

cer Alan White said after 15 years of brewing for change, CafeSmart has never been more critical.

“In the face of growing need, cafes and coffee drinkers are stepping up in a simple but powerful way—by turning an

Latte art by Ms Alcock. (Dongyun Kwon: 495130)

Barista Alita Aleksandra (left) and owner Heather Alcock. (Dongyun Kwon: 495130)

Families facing homelessness are being forced to spend up to months in hotel and motel accommodation. (Unsplash)

Senior MP won’t re-contest

By Mikayla van Loon

After two decades in the role of MP, senior Victorian Liberal David Hodgett has announced he won’t be contesting the seat of Croydon at the next election.

The shadow minister for manufacturing and innovation and for employment and industrial relations informed the Opposition Leader, Brad Battin, of his decision, with a statement released on Wednesday 6 August.

“It has been an absolute honour and privilege to serve in the Parliament from November 2006, taking the seat back off Labor and successfully winning the seat at five State Elections,” Mr Hodgett said.

“November 2026 will mark 20 years serving the people of the District of Kilsyth / Croydon and much has been achieved and delivered locally over that time.

“It is time for a change and now is the right time for me to leave and allow someone else to seek preselection for the seat of Croydon.”

Mr Hodgett first served as a councillor at Yarra Ranges Council before switching to state politics, running for the then seat of Kilsyth and being elected in 2006.

When the redistribution occurred ahead of the 2014 election, he became the representative for Croydon, a position he has held ever since. This accumulates to 6830 days of parliamentary service at the time of writing.

During that time, Mr Hodgett has held senior cabinet positions, served as Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party, and held numerous ministerial and shadow minister portfolios.

“I am particularly proud to have served as Minister for Ports, Minister for Major Projects, and Minister for Manufacturing in the Napthine Cabinet,” he said.

“The breadth of responsibilities enabled me to develop relationships across private industry, and I maintain many of these friendships today.”

Mr Hodgett said at one point he was responsible for $1.9 billion in major projects, including the $366 million Melbourne Park

Redevelopment and the $45 million Shrine of Remembrance: Galleries of Remembrance.

“I have had a solid innings, covering many senior roles and I have been fortunate to serve under six incredibly capable and dedicated leaders.”

Mr Hodgett thanked those leaders for their “belief, confidence and trust” over the two decades.

“His legacy is one of deep commitment to public service and delivering real outcomes for the people he represents,” Mr Battin said.

“He has always brought integrity, passion, and purpose to his work, with a strong focus on community and a belief in leaving things better than he found them.”

Mr Battin confirmed Mr Hodgett would remain in his current role in the Shadow Cabinet and would be an integral part of the Liberal team ahead of the 2026 election.

“David’s departure will leave big shoes to fill. On behalf of the entire Liberal team, I thank him for his outstanding contribution to our party and to Victoria,” Mr Battin said.

“I look forward to continuing to work with him over the coming year and wish him and his family all the very best for the future.”

Mr Hodgett said none of his service to the Croydon district would have been possible without the support of his staff, Croydon Branch Members, his constituents and Liberal Party members across the state.

“I sought preselection and was elected to make a difference to our community, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of significant positive changes to our local area and to the State,” he said.

“As I said in my inaugural speech to the Parliament, I enjoy being involved in my community, contributing and giving something back to the people and the area in which I live; working hard, earning respect, looking for the best in others and giving the best of myself, and leaving the place better than I found it.

“This is what drives me. I hope I have repaid the trust, confidence, and belief in me.”

Tiny home dreams derailed by council ruling

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor and Oliver Winn

After years of legal uncertainty and mounting pressure from the Yarra Ranges Council, Evrim Sen and her partner Benny Redfern have made the painful decision to leave their tiny home and relocate to Warragul in Gippsland.

Ms Sen, who has lived in her tiny house on wheels for three years in Belgrave South, had hoped to settle in the region, build a life, and start a family.

But despite community support and a petition with over 1000 signatures urging the council to allow tiny homes on wheels as legitimate housing, Ms Sen and Mr Redfern were told to vacate their home by the end of July and have already been evicted, with the tiny house itself required to be moved as soon as possible.

In a documented statement sent to Yarra Ranges Council, Ms Sen expressed frustration over the council’s interpretation of planning laws.

She stated that while their home meets all safety requirements, including transport and electrical certificates, the council views it as an illegal dwelling due to strict planning code applications.

“It doesn’t seem to matter that our home has an electrician’s certificate, a gas certificate, all the things that make it safe,” Ms Sen said.

In a follow-up email to council staff, she said, “it’s heartbreaking.”

“I wanted to build a life here, but the council’s stance means I’m being pushed out, while other tiny home residents continue to battle for change. I can’t lose any more time or risk my future.”

The case of Ms Sen highlights a broader issue affecting many residents living in tiny homes and caravans throughout the Yarra Ranges.

A petition titled ‘Reverse the Evrim Sen Decision by the Shire of Yarra Ranges’ calls for the council to immediately adopt a resolution submitted by Ivor Wolstencroft.

The resolution urges the council to allow the temporary use of tiny homes and caravans under safety standards and planning discretion, particularly during the current housing crisis when rental vacancy rates are below 2.5 per cent.

The petition states that if enforcement actions

like Ms Sen’s eviction are upheld, it could set a precedent forcing many vulnerable residents out of their only available shelter.

Community advocates are also urging higher levels of government to publicly support the use of tiny homes as emergency housing and to fund coordinated responses to the housing crisis.

The petition states, “This is not a loophole, it is a lifeline. The solution is written. It is ready. All it needs is to be adopted.”

Aimee Clark, an advocate who has experienced prolonged legal battles over alternative housing, shared her perspective with Star Mail.

“People don’t choose to live in tiny homes because they want to, they do it out of desperation. When the system fails you, sometimes a tiny home is the only safe option left,” she said.

“The council’s approach turned from serving the community into a business of revenue and bullying. They pushed vulnerable people out rather than helping them.”

In parallel, a formal complaint was lodged with the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission.

The complaint alleges that Yarra Ranges Council’s enforcement against Ms Sen may have breached the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006, citing violations of rights to privacy, equality, protection of families, and humane treatment.

The complaint states the council took enforcement action without genuine consideration of Ms Sen’s human rights or offering reasonable alternatives.

It further raises concerns about systemic discrimination against those living in non-traditional housing, especially low-income women.

Yarra Ranges Council’s director of planning andsustainablefutures,KathMcClusky,responded to queries by saying that in light of a recent Building Appeals Board decision, the council is reviewing active building compliance matters relating to tiny homes and seeking further guidance from the State Building Surveyor.

She said each matter is treated on a case-bycase basis and encouraged anyone with concerns to contact the council’s Planning and Building Department.

Ms Sen praised some council staff, especially

the housing officer, for acknowledging the severe lack of affordable housing in the area.

However, she said more transparency and consistent policy across council departments are urgently needed.

Ms Clark’s fight with the system sheds light on the deeper impacts of these enforcement actions.

“I was criminally charged and fined repeatedly, even though my home met all the required codes and regulations. It’s not about safety; it’s about control and discrimination,” she said.

“This isn’t just about tiny homes - it’s about a corrupt system that ignores the rights and safety of Aboriginal people, disabled people, and those living on the margins.”

The ongoing legal uncertainty and lack of clear policy are taking a toll on other tiny home residents too.

Another tiny home dweller from Monbulk, Dayne Barkley, said the council’s approach adds “extra pressure and unnecessary stress” and has forced him to seek legal advice to understand his rights.

“People are trying to do the right thing, but they’re navigating a cost-of-living crisis, a rental crisis, and a housing market that’s out of reach.

“Tiny homes offer hope. And yet here we are,”

Ms Sen said.

Ms Clark emphasised the human cost of these policies.

“After years of harassment and legal battles, many people like me are left broken - physically, mentally, and financially. The system needs to change,” she said.

“We need to stop criminalising alternative housing solutions and start recognising them as legitimate, safe, and necessary homes for vulnerable communities.”

Despite leaving the Yarra Ranges, Ms Sen remains determined to advocate for change.

“It’s devastating to leave. But we’ll keep helping others where we can. This isn’t just about us - it’s about everyone trying to find safe, affordable housing in a broken system,” she said.

Ms Sen’s move to Gippsland underscores the human cost behind the council’s enforcement policies and the urgent need for sensible, compassionate housing solutions.

As the tiny homes debate continues in Yarra Ranges, residents and advocates alike call on local, state, and federal leaders to act with kindness and flexibility, because, as the petition puts it, “Homes aren’t just buildings - they’re where lives begin.”

Croydon MP David Hodgett won’t be contesting his seat at the next election. (Supplied)

Evrim and Benny’s tiny home remains, but they’ve been forced to leave under council orders. (Supplied)

Faux aroma spoils real deal

By Callum Ludwig

It’s been a tumultuous time for truffle growers in recent years, with Covid, economic conditions, weather patterns and the rise of synthetic truffle products toying with the market for the delicacy.

The ABC recently reported that despite Australia growing as one of the largest truffle producers in the world, consumer expectations are being skewed by synthetic flavours, often found in products like truffle oil.

Stuart Dunbar of Yarra Valley Truffles toils over his truffiere in Woori Yallock, with the help of truffle dogs Lani and Jäger, and said products like oils as well as under-ripe truffles have created an unrealistic perception.

“They ran so many products through the supermarkets over the past 12-24 months, atthe start of this year I was surprised that they cancelled nearly all over the lines, everybody’s over-saturated they’re expecting and don’t breathe too deep they’re expecting that type of aroma (like garlic),” he said.

“It’s never present (the garlicky aroma) in black truffles, white truffles do have that aroma, but black truffles don’t,”

“It’s fairly large problem I think, I’ve cooked using truffle oil and there are about eight compounds in the makeup of an artificial truffle oil, while there’s about 360 in the aroma of a fully ripe truffle.”

Mr Dunbar has been growing truffles on his one-hectare property since 2006, harvesting his first Perigord black truffle in 2011 and refining the craft of growing truffles ever since, something he said he hadn’t even perfected until the last five years.

Mr Dunbar said another key giveaway that a consumer hasn’t experienced a ripe truffle is if they describe it as an ‘earthy, mushroomy smell’.

“That’s an unripe piece of junk, there’s nothing in the earthy and mushroomy about that tantalising, romantic, warm molasses and uma-

mi, truffle’s the definition of umami,” he said.

“People who experience their product, it’s even worse when they are expecting that (the truffle oil flavour) because that’s what the market’s taught them, but do you really think $5 truffle butter on top of the steak in the supermarket actually has real truffle in it,”

“Mostly I’m providing people with cooking advice, and then providing them with a free truffle on top of that, and for that once a year, they’re expecting that wow expectation, if they get that good experience, they come back for it.”

The last time the Star Mail spoke to Mr Dunbar, Covid’s impact on the export market for truffles, the closed hospitality industry and travel restrictions limiting farm gate sales were painting a dark picture for small truffle growers.

Mr Dunbar said in the years since, it’s been up and down.

“From 2022-23, hospitality’s been very much dead but there’s been a slight return of interest this year, which is a surprise, I had to shift to driving the direct farm gate retail sales and export,” he said.

“The exports has gone up and down, some of it was associated with Israel, so the last two years there went that supply, I tried to pick up a new customer for South Korea and Italy last year, but he hasn’t taken anything this year,”

“It’s been a slow season, very much a repeat of weather patterns from last year, there’s always some different environmental factors before all the economical and political ones, but the sustained dry last year was a big problem, so I changed my irrigation patterns this year which has definitely improved it, but it’s definitely a far later start to the season this year.”

Mr Dunbar expects to have truffles into the middle of September this year.

Since the first Australian truffle was harvested in Tasmania in 1999, Australia’s truffle industry has continued to grow, becoming the fourth-largest producer in the world according to the Australian Truffle Industry Association.

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L-R: Lani, Stuart Dunbar and Jäger in front of the truffiére in Woori Yallock. (Callum Ludwig: 494963)

Synthetic products and under-ripe truffles have skewed customer expectations for the fungus, including those grown at Yarra Valley Truffles. (Callum Ludwig: 494963)

SDS unveils new facilities

By Mikayla van Loon

Three years down the track from an $11.75 million funding announcement, the Croydon Special Developmental School has unveiled its finished upgrades.

It was a momentous occasion for the school that educates 90 children who have moderate to severe intellectual and physical disabilities.

The funding helped transform the administration building, hydrotherapy facilities, gym and library, something principal Christine Pillot said has made a huge difference to their students.

“We’ve got more opportunities and more accessible opportunities, with the pool and the gym and the library being that they’re now in the one hub,” she said.

Not only have the upgrades improved functionality and safety, but improved the students’ desire to utilise the facilities because of the warmth, natural lighting and newness they embody.

Creating a hub of spaces, with the pool and gym connected and the library just up the hallway, Ms Pillot said this also makes the students more comfortable.

“For our students to transition from room to room, that can be a challenge, but because it’s coming up to the one building, that then becomes a familiar transition,” she said.

“It’s not going from one end of the school to the other end. It’s not them getting confused. So it is always coming up to this same space.”

Ms Pillot said that for her, though, her favourite inclusion was the community rooms, designated for parents to use in the mornings and afternoons, or whenever they need, to engage with staff, fellow parents and to have a cuppa.

“The highlight for me is the community spaces at the front of the school. I really feel it’s important for all schools to have the community at the core so that you can give them

that space and give them the supports that they need, because they’re our clients essentially, so to have them there, and have something for them is really important,” she said.

Former school principal Libby Anderson said, “it’s really hard to describe” and put into words the difference this purpose-built facility will make in each student’s life.

“Having worked in the school where buildings were old and tired and no longer fit for purpose, because education has changed so much, with the soundproofing and the natural environment, it’s just amazing,” she said.

“The students find change hard to adjust to, but seeing them respond, they’re really keen to come to the library, whereas in the old library space, it wasn’t a warm, inviting space. The pool, students don’t want to leave.

“The warm water pool that was designed with current needs in mind, and the whole building really lifts everybody’s spirits.”

Ms Anderson said with an upgrade of this kind, it helps send a message to the “students and families that they’re important”.

Announced by North Eastern Metropolitan Region MP Sonja Terpstra and the then education minister, James Merlino, in the 2022-23 budget, it started a wave of maintenance and upgrade funding for special developmental schools across the state.

Attending the school to see the upgrades firsthand on Wednesday 6 August, Ms Terpstra said it was astounding to see the transformation.

“When I was first elected, this was one of the first schools that I came to and visited and met Libby, and we had a tour of the school,” she said.

“The students and the parents here are certainly amazing. But what was obvious was that the facilities had not had any attention, I think pretty much since Joan Kirner opened it in the 1990s.”

The 2022-23 budget assigned $326 million for capital upgrades at 36 special schools across Victoria.

Despite being within the public system, which allocates funds to primary and secondary schools across the state three times per year, special schools don’t receive regular funding and instead have to apply for grants.

“I want to especially say thank you to the parents, to the teachers and the staff who every day turn up for these kids because they’re just as deserving as any other kids in our public system. It’s been a project close to my heart,” Ms Terpstra said.

Ms Pillot thanked Minx Architecture for their constant engagement, thoughts and plans to cater to the students, Melbcon for constructing the project, the Victorian School Building Authority, the Department of Education and RPS Consulting, as well as Ms Terpstra for her advocacy.

“We’re very pleased and very proud of it, and we’ve been blessed with all of those key stakeholders. We cannot fault their passion.”

North Eastern Metropolitan Region MP Sonja Terpstra with Croydon SDS school captains Declan and Jamie. (494970)

The new warm water pool is a beautifully bright and open space, with a waiting area and new change rooms. (494970)

Former school principal Libby Anderson and Sonja Terpstra had the honours of cutting the ribbon. (494970)

Former school principal Libby Anderson signs the school song, as school captain Declan sings along with her. (494970)

School captain Declan sings the school song with MP Sonja Terpstra. (494970)

Representatives from each organisation involved in the build were able to tour the new facilities and see them in use on Wednesday 6 August. (Mikayla van Loon: 494970)

Sport hub’s new additions

By Mikayla van Loon

The Yarra Ranges sporting hub in Kilsyth has expanded again, providing more opportunities for basketball participation with greater accessibility.

Officially opening Kilsyth Basketball’s court seven and showcasing the newly upgraded accessible changerooms on Wednesday 6 August, it was hailed as the final piece, for a while, by all involved for Pinks Reserve.

Since 2019, Yarra Ranges Council, the State Government and the associated sporting clubs have contributed to improving and upgrading the facilities.

With the $10.5 million from the Government, the council added $8.5 million, while the clubs were able to provide nearly $1 million to see a new batting cage, four netball court covers, a redeveloped Gary Tait football and cricket pavilion and improvements to the Kilsyth Sports Centre.

“This facility is often described as the jewel in Kilsyth’s crown, but it’s the jewel in the whole Yarra Ranges,” Mayor Jim Child said.

“When we look at what this facility gives back to the whole of the Yarra Ranges community, that’s 55 townships, at some stage, there would have been a sporting body involved in an activity at this centre. And that’s why it plays a regional significance for our whole region.”

For Councillor Len Cox, the transformation from 40 years ago, when he was first elected, to now was something he’d pushed for over many years.

“The first time I saw this place was in 1982 when I was first elected to the council, and it was a lot smaller…and pretty ordinary,” he said.

“Back in the ‘70s, when it was built, disabled people weren’t thought about much, and there were no facilities for disabled people at all, and now we’ve got a lot of good facilities. There wasn’t even much provision for women.

“It’s all changed so much and so much for the better.”

Pinks Reserve now caters for the region’s netball and basketball competitions, seeing players travel from the far reaches of the shire.

“As the population keeps increasing, the need for these places keeps increasing. People want to play sport,” Cr Cox said.

“It’s good for them to play sport, and I think the State Government and the council have recognised that with the money we’ve put in over the years.”

This was echoed by State Government representatives, North Eastern Metropolitan Region MP Sonja Terpstra and Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino.

“(There will be) 10,000 participants who will come to a centre like this to participate in community sport. It’s really amazing. And it doesn’t matter what it is, people really love to play sport locally where they live,” Ms Terpstra said.

“Kids, they want to go and meet up with local friends…It’s an opportunity to meet new friends and join a team, and participate in team sport be-

cause we know kids who play team sport, they get so many more benefits than just playing sport.

“It’s the friendships they make and the connections they make, and it also teaches us something about winning and losing.”

Ms De Martino reflected on her own family’s involvement in community sport, speaking of the social, mental and connection benefits that arise from being involved in a team.

“The benefits to community when we build something like this, and when we do it in conjunction with local government as well, everyone benefits,” Ms De Martino said.

“So 10,000 people using this, that’s 10,000 reasons to do it, and then some for many, many years to come.”

Seventh court grants more opportunities

By Mikayla van Loon

A newly completed seventh court has been a welcome inclusion at the Kilsyth Basketball Stadium as participation grows across all divisions, ages, genders and abilities.

The additional court, Kilsyth Basketball chief executive officer Will van Poppel said, has granted the association the ability to schedule more games and create more skill-teaching opportunities.

“What the extra court does is provide us with more games. So people get to play more often. It means less byes, which means people get to play more regularly rather than having to miss a week,” he said.

“It also helps with things like training for the development of players. So we have another court where we can train players and teach them the skills and how to play the game.

“We run a wheelchair competition every Thursday night. We’re the only Association in Victoria that runs a wheelchair competition.

“The additional capacity with court seven, we now run a wheelchair skills program. So for younger people who are in wheelchairs, who want to learn how to play.”

Paralympian Josh Allison, a former Cobra and Wheelchair Basketball World Champion, has also committed his time to this training program,

passing on his skills to all who want to learn.

“We’re pretty happy about that. That’s one of the biggest bonuses to have that going; it just creates an opportunity for more people to play and more people to be involved.”

Bathrooms and change rooms also cater to wheelchair accessibility, making the centre more inclusive.

Despite this “extra resource” in court seven, Mr van Poppel said, like most basketball associations, Kilsyth is at capacity and could realistically do with another two courts in the future.

“We have over 12,000 members, which includes parents, junior players, senior players, coaches and team managers. So it includes a lot of people,” he said.

“The objective is to have no byes. That means everyone can play every week. But that’s not a reality. It will be one day, but not right now.”

Mr van Poppel said that at this stage, Kilsyth Basketball is what he would call “oversubscribed” and that as “population grows, participation grows”.

“Kids seem to be playing more sports, more sports activities, than they ever did before. They play multiple sports…but it’s definitely more popular,” he said.

The ratio of women to men is still skewed towards male participation, but Mr van Poppel said the vision is to change this so there’s a more even split.

“We have a focus on trying to grow the female side of basketball. We want more players, more coaches, more girls’ teams, more senior women’s teams. But it is definitely growing.”

As the largest basketball association in the east, with domestic competitions for juniors and seniors, the Cobra juniors, youth league and NBL1, there are a total of 1300 domestic teams and 46 Cobra teams.

Players come from “well within the region”, some travelling from Yarra Glen, Healesville and Yarra Junction, but the largest cohort of juniors comes from Croydon and Kilsyth.

The upgraded change rooms adjoined to court seven are all accessible.

The high levels of participation over decades, including socially, meant the association had to outsource playing locations, helping build the four-court stadium at Lilydale High School and becoming the community partner at Melba College.

The 650 games per week are scheduled between each of the three locations, a challenging task but one Mr van Poppel said “we’re really good at”.

Grateful for the investment and belief shown by local and state governments to build a seventh court, Mr van Poppel said he hopes, down the line, Kilsyth Basketball can continue to expand.

Representatives from clubs, Yarra Ranges Council and the State Government were all in attendance to see the new facilities. (Mikayla van Loon: 495145)

Mayor Jim Child said the Kilsyth Sports Centre was a jewel in the crown for the Yarra Ranges. (495145)

For Councillor Len Cox, the upgrades were a passion project. (495145)

The new bathrooms are a huge improvement on what used to be there. (495145)

Kilsyth Basketball has welcomed the addition of court seven. (Mikayla van Loon: 495145)

(495145)

Unite, read and discuss

By Mikayla van Loon

Local book lovers get ready to unite in Australia’s biggest digital book club event as Together We Read returns for a fifth year.

The OverDrive Australia event, supported by Your Library, invites readers to engage with Michael Brissenden’s murder-mystery novel Smoke between 12 and 26 August via Libby.

For the two week period, there will be no wait times or holds required to download the eBook or audiobook, with a final online discussion to be held on Tuesday 26 August at 7.30pm.

Your Library technology and digital services lead Angus Cooke said digital book clubs like Together We Read allow more people to engage and connect, not only with library services, but with people who have similar interests.

“The main benefit of that is people can hop online and access and interact with people who share similar interests in that reading sphere from home, rather than potentially having to go out,” he said.

The featured title for this year, Smoke, is regarded as one of the most talked about crime thrillers of recent years, because of its complex characters, atmospheric settings and a page-turning plot.

Angus said the Australian arm of OverDrive often tries to promote local authors where possible, something that connects readers even more.

At Your Library, Angus said there’s a growing proportion of library users who engage online and the outer eastern service is on track for over a million eBook and audiobook loans for this calendar year.

“Our aim is to connect the community in various different ways, whether it is someone visiting our physical locations, coming in and interacting with staff, borrowing physical items. But there’s a large proportion of our members who do only access the library digitally,” he said.

“And for them, I think it’s great, because it does give them an opportunity to feel connected to the library service, but also to connect with others as well online and feel like they are part of a group and a program.”

As people move to a content focused engagement model, Angus said libraries are doing their

bit to keep up.

“Some people are going to stick to physical. They’re never going to delve into digital and that’s perfectly fine, and it goes the other way as well.

“We’re seeing that people will access the library online, and they’ll never actually step foot in any of our physical locations.

“Especially audiobooks, there’s great demand for them, and we’re seeing increased usage in that. People want to read, and digital audiobooks allow people to reaccess their love for reading.”

For people who are time poor or can’t fathom reading a book cover-to-cover, Angus said the free access to audiobooks offers people an alternative to listening to podcasts, radio or music while driving, working or doing things around the house.

Your Library’s Libby collection has grown to

over 200,000 titles, with many instantly available to read or listen to.

“For us, there’s no real downturn; you can access it all for free, straight away. It’s accessible for everyone. No one can be excluded from the program. It’s opt-in, and if you want to take part, it’s as simple as hopping online and either reading or listening to the title.

“Together We Read is great for that too, because it’s all concurrent use, meaning that if you do want to take part in the program, you don’t have to worry about waiting for a physical book because other people borrowing it, don’t have to worry about any overdue charges or anything like that, because it’s all online.”

While Your Library is one of the largest, Angus said Together We Read is available across all pub-

lic libraries in Victoria, and he encourages people to engage, supporting libraries in return.

“There are so many library services taking part in this as well that will benefit from users using the resources and the platforms, because libraries won’t be able to reinvest and grow unless we continue seeing usage grow overall.”

To join the Together We Read event, create a local library membership – join for free easily online or in your local participating branch; download the free Libby app; and borrow Smoke by Michael Brissenden as an eBook or audiobook between 12 and 26 August.

Share your thoughts with other Australian readers in an online discussion forum for two weeks.

For more, go to togetherweread.com/au/

Lilydale students sewing the seeds of change

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Lilydale High School (LHS) Year 9 students have been putting their creativity and sewing skills to good use, led by Marie Hovanjec, the class created beautiful pouches for orphaned wildlife.

As part of their Fabrics for Fauna subject, the students donated over 40 joey pouches to the Emerald Monbulk Wildlife Shelter, helping to keep rescued animals warm and comfortable.

The Fabrics for Fauna initiative is part of the school’s Community Time elective, a subject that encourages students to use their talents to support local wildlife and animal shelters.

The project was inspired by LHS teachers, including Amanda Mortel, a passionate animal lover, and Ms Hovanjec, who recognised the growing need to help displaced and injured wildlife.

The students have worked with donated materials, such as bed linen, blankets, and fleece, to craft a variety of items including pouches, jumpers, and enrichment toys for animals in need.

Ms Hovanjec said the initiative has been running for three years, with students creating essential items for shelters that care for injured or orphaned wildlife, including joeys, wombats, and kangaroos.

“The class of 2024 made these pouches,” she said.

“We’ve been able to donate over 40 pouches to the shelter, and there are more being completed.”

The donations don’t stop at pouches. In addition to the wildlife support, the students have also created enrichment toys for domestic animals, like snuffle balls for rabbits and dogs, which were donated to Animal Aid in Coldstream.

These creations have been part of broader fundraising efforts, with more than 50 productsincluding beaded bracelets, scrunchies, and pet bandanas - being made by the class of 2025.

For the students, the project provides an opportunity to develop practical skills while contributing to a meaningful cause.

“It gives the students the chance to increase their confidence, develop leadership skills, and take pride in their work,” Ms Hovanjec said.

“They love animals, and they walk out of the classroom feeling like they’ve made a real difference.”

The initiative not only teaches sewing and artistic skills but also instills a deeper sense of responsibility and community engagement.

The students have seen the impact of their work firsthand, and Ms Hovanjec said the project has encouraged them to look beyond themselves.

“It helps them realise how they can enrich the wider community with their actions,” she said.

The founder and long-time volunteer at the Emerald Monbulk Wildlife Shelter, Carol Seeger expressed her gratitude for the school’s support.

“A big thank you to Lilydale High School for these beautifully made joey pouches,” she said.

“All wildlife carers are inundated with kangaroos and wombats due to the amount of roadkill. This has been the worst year we’ve experienced. The wildlife is being displaced by the large amount of development going on, and sadly, our government seems to have little sympathy for it.”

Ms Seeger’s dedication to wildlife care is clear, but she also highlighted the tough reality that wildlife carers face.

“My washing machine runs all day, and the clothesline is always full. We go through a lot of pouches to replace the dirty ones,” she said.

The shelter is grateful for the continued support from the community, especially as they deal with the aftermath of road accidents and the growing demand for pouches.

Ms Seeger also shared the emotional toll of the work, depicting a recent incident where a joey tragically died after being left in its mother’s pouch.

“A driver didn’t phone in the rescue, and the little joey froze to death, please, slow down on the roads and check for pouches,” she said.

The Fabrics for Fauna program at Lilydale High School is just one example of how local communities can come together to make a real difference for wildlife.

The students and staff involved have shown that even small actions, like sewing a pouch can have a significant impact on animals in need.

The students are preparing for a fundraising event in collaboration with the Year 9 Community Time Cafe class. Their hard work and dedication are helping to raise awareness and support for local wildlife shelters, and proving that community spirit is

alive and well at Lilydale High School.

“We are so grateful for the tireless efforts of everyone involved,” Ms Hovanjec said.

“Thank you to the students, staff, and families for their selflessness and commitment to this cause. You are truly making a difference.”

Together We Read returns for a fifth year inviting readers to engage digitally via Libby. (Stewart Chambers: 290552)

A Joey wrapped in warmth thanks to LHS students. (Supplied)

Celebrate our youth

Community members are invited to nominate young people, aged 12 to 25, for Yarra Ranges Council’s annual Celebrating YOUth Awards.

The Awards, which will be held in November, celebrate young people living, working or studying in the Yarra Ranges who have made a positive difference to the Yarra Ranges community. Big or small all contributions are welcome under the categories: passionate advocate, young entrepreneur, resilience and perseverance, school and community, and arts and culture.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Jim Child, encourages community members to think of inspirational young people in their lives, and nominate them for an award.

“Every year, we get the opportunity to celebrate passionate, driven, resilient, artistic young people in the Yarra Ranges – a night dedicated to giving young people the recognition they deserve,” Cr Child said.

“We have so many young adults doing incredible things in their communities, schools and local groups, whose work can often go unrecognised.

“These awards are a way of saying thanks, showing appreciation, and encouraging them to continue on their path.

COMMUNITY DIARY

COMMUNITY DIARY

Give blood, give life

Lifeblood will be returning to Lilydale next month with a pop up donor centre encouraging people to give blood.

Coming to the Lilydale Baptist Church from Monday 8 to Friday 19 September, it’s a chance to give blood closer to home.

The clinic will open midday to 8pm Monday to Wednesday and 8am to 3.30 on Thursdays and 3pm on Fridays for the two week period.

The church is located on the corner Hull and Swansea Roads.

Statistics show that one in three people in Lilydale will need blood, and they need people like you to give it.

“All nominees are invited to the awards event, and an award like this can help encourage them to keep working towards their goals – or to get their foot in the door of a bigger opportunity.”

Cr Child said no matter a young person’s field of expertise or passion, there would be an award category to fit into.

“Last year, we had winners who fundraised for their schools; we had people who made community spaces inclusive; we celebrated groups who made the Yarra Ranges better for LGBTQIA+ youth; we gave awards to people who helped run music events or who strived in academia,”

Cr Child said.

“All it takes is five minutes to open up the form, tell us why you think this young person is amazing, and submit.

“The biggest criteria we’re looking for is that you think this young person is worthy of recognition – so visit yarranges.vic.gov.au/YouthAwards and tell us about someone brilliant in your community.”

If you have any questions, please reach out to our Youth Development Officers Jayde or Sophie at youth@yarraranges.vic.gov.au or call 1300 368 333

Nominations are open until 31 October.

Don’t forget to pre-book your spot at lifeblood. com.au, on the app or on 13 14 95.

Getting your stories to Star Mail

The Rotary Club in Belgrave welcomed Star Mail journalist Tanya Steele as a special guest speaker recently at their regular meeting in Ferntree Gully.

Ms Steele took the Rotary members through how Star Mail works on a day-to-day and weekly deadline-driven level and said the sooner the paper is looped in, the better.

“We are an advertising paper, but we publish online digital content daily and go to print weekly,” she said.

“We also have a smaller ‘snippets’ section and welcome an email or phone call from any community that would like to tell us what they are up to.”

Ms Steele said that any story always needs a good angle and can be as simple as a quick phone chat or email.

“What is the story about?” she said.

“Is something happening in the area? Is it a grant delivery, an event or an anniversary? Why does the community need to know?”

To share your local, community story contact Star Mail on 5975 3700 or via email at editor@ mailcommunity.com.au

CHIRNSIDE PARK Meadowgate Milk Bar3 Meadowgate Drive

CHIRNSIDE PARK Coles Supermarket239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Woolworths Supermarket239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Caltex Safeway239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK EG Fuelco Service Station Chirnside Park Shopping

CHIRNSIDE PARK 7 - Eleven 242 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Chirnside Park Country Club 68 Kingswood Drive

CROYDON NORTH Croydon Hills Milk Bar158 Nangathan Way

CROYDON NORTH Eastfield Milk Bar11 The Mall

KILSYTH Woolworths SupermarketChuringa SC, Russo Place

KILSYTH Woolworths SupermarketCanterbury Road Kilsyth

KILSYTH Kilsyth Laundrette Unit 7/87 Colchester Road

LILYDALE Yarra Valley Soul Cafe 8 William Street East

LILYDALE Aaron Violi MP Office 110 Main Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Marketplace SC33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Village SC51-59 Anderson Street

LILYDALE Woolworths SupermarketMarketplace, 33 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Coles Supermarket Lilydale VillageCastella Street & Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Lilydale Community Centre7 Hardy Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Lakeside Conference and Events Centre1 Jarlo Drive

LILYDALE United Petrol Service Station473 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Caltex Lilydale346 Main Street

LILYDALE Caltex Woolworths31 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE BP Service Station87 Warburton Highway

LILYDALE Shell Service Station469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE 7 - Eleven LilydaleCnr Maroondah Highway & Cave Hill Road

LILYDALE Coles Express469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Hutch & Co Cafe251 Main Street

LILYDALE Round Bird Can't Fly170 Main Street

LILYDALE The Lilydale General110 Beresford Road

LILYDALE Yarra Valley Smokery96 Main Street

LILYDALE Bee Seen Cafe178 Main Street

LILYDALE Blue Turtle Cafe222 Main Street

LILYDALE Gracious GraceCastella Street

LILYDALE Melba Coffee House33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Munchies7/75 Cave Hill Road

LILYDALE Point of View CafeLilydale Lakeside - Jarlo Drive

LILYDALE Freda's Cafe2 Clarke Street

LILYDALE Barry Plant Real Estate88 Main Street

LILYDALE Ray White Real Estate164 Main Street

LILYDALE Hello Harry245 Main Street

LILYDALE Noel Jones Real Estate 281 Main Street

LILYDALE Professionals Real Estate111-113 Main Street

LILYDALE Grubs Up1 Industrial Park Drive

LILYDALE Mc Donalds RestaurantMaroondah Highway

LILYDALE Olinda Creek HotelMaroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Crown HotelMaroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Yarra Ranges Council 61 - 65 Anderson Street

MONTROSE Montrose Authorised Newsagency 912 Mt Dandenong Road

MONTROSE IGA Supermarket Mt Dandenong Road

MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road

MOUNT EVELYN Fast Fuel 1 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN IGA Supermarket 38- 40 York Road

MOUNT EVELYN Post Office 12 Station Street

MOUNT EVELYN Authorised Newsagency 1A Wray Crescent

MOUNT EVELYN Red Robyn Milk Bar 35 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN Library 50 Wray Cresent

MOUNT EVELYN Milkbar 28 Birmingham Road

MOUNT EVELYN Bendigo Bank 2/35-39 Wray Cres

MONTROSE IGA Supermarket916 Mt Dandenong Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Supermarket15 Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Bendigo BankUnit 19/66 - 74 Brice Ave

MOOROOLBARK Corner Milk Bar38 Bellara Dive

MOOROOLBARK Fang & Yaoxin Mini Mart108 Hayrick Lane

MOOROOLBARK BP Mooroolbark103 Cardigan Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Express2 Cambridge Road

MOOROOLBARK Professionals Real EstateBrice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK L J HookerBrice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Fletchers Real Estate 1/14 Manchester Road

MOOROOLBARK Mc Donalds RestaurantManchester Road

MOOROOLBARK 7-Eleven Manchester Road

MOUNT EVELYN York on Lilydale138 York Road

WANDIN NORTH Wandin Newsagency Shop 2 /18 Union Road

Help celebrate exceptional young people with the Celebrating YOUth Awards. (Suzanne Phoenix)

Tuesday 26th of August 2025, 11am to 3pm

Scoliosis isn’t life sentence

Healthy living

Ben Croxford

Physiotherapist, Leads the team at Form & Practice Mount Evelyn and Olinda

It’s not uncommon for someone to come into my clinic a little shaken after being told they have a scoliosis.

The word itself can sound a bit alarming, especially if you’ve never heard it before.

But here’s the truth: most of the time, a scoliosis diagnosis is not something to panic about.

In fact, it’s more common — and more manageable — than most people think.

All spines have curves – these are necessary to allow us to bend, lift and give our back strength.

A scoliosis, however, is a sideways curve that’s technically not meant to be there.

Humans are rarely symmetrical, and a scoliosis is just another example of this.

Most scoliosis presentations are very mild and have likely been present since adolescence – and for the most part, probably without any issues or symptoms.

CARTOON

If a scoliosis is mild, your back will adapt and carry on like there is nothing wrong.

A scoliosis diagnosis is often detected incidentally on an x-ray or other scan and sounds scary when read in the report.

Back pain can be hard to diagnose, even with

imaging, so when a scoliosis shows up, it can get the blame.

However, in most cases, a scoliosis is unlikely to cause back pain or even increase your risk of injuring your back.

Yes, a moderate to severe scoliosis can cause

pain, but most likely it is only one part of the whole picture.

Surgery is only required in severe adolescent cases where the scoliosis is causing some compromise to the thoracic cage that houses the heart and lungs.

Unless a scoliosis is in that extreme category, chances are you don’t have much to worry about. If you happen to have a scoliosis, the best way to ensure it doesn’t become an issue is to stay active and keep your spine strong.

Physiotherapists may suggest Pilates, strength training, mobility exercises and general exercise to help toughen the spine.

In rare cases where a scoliosis is causing specific issues, a physiotherapist can tailor a treatment plan to target those movements.

So if you’ve been told you have scoliosis — take a deep breath.

It doesn’t mean you’re broken, fragile, or headed for surgery.

It just means your spine has a little more personality than most.

Ben Croxford is a Physiotherapist and leads the team at Form and Practice Mt Evelyn, Olinda and Chirnside Park.

His writings explore his favourite health topics, challenge common myths and aim to empower you to take control of your own health.

Find out more at formandpractice.com.au

Another horror review

Weapons

Starring Julia Garner, Josh Brolin and Cary Christopher Rated MA15+ 4/5

The third film from Barbarian writer-director Zach Creggor, Weapons is a chilling, cleverlywritten horror film with some misjudged tone and a flawed middle.

One night, seventeen students, all from the same classroom, vanish without a trace.

As the town erupts in anger and paranoia, their teacher Justine (Julia Garner) and Archer (Josh Brolin), the father of one of the missing children, resolve to find them.

Garner is engrossing as Justine, a realisticallyflawed protagonist who loves her students but is impulsive, obsessive and petty at times.

Brolin is a figure of steely, determined grief as Archer, and Cary Christopher delivers an astounding performance as Alex, Justine’s only remaining student.

Weapons is an enthralling slow-burn, establishing a disturbing mystery and a deepening aura of gloom and frustration for its harried victims.

Like a less procedural Longlegs, Weapons is full of subtle, nail-biting tension, and does an excellent job of developing the macabre rules at play.

Even when you learn the nefarious cause of the disappearances by the end of the second act,

a deep despair is maintained through the awareness that the characters are ensnared in a cruel, cunning system, along with themes of growing up too fast and toxic family obligations.

The narrative has a clever overlapping, recursive structure, showing multiple perspectives on the same events, but the middle has two overly comedic, largely redundant vignettes involving a cop and a junkie.

Weapons’ first act has an over-reliance on fake-out dream sequences, with two in a row at one point.

The ending is also both gut-wrenchingly terrifying and kinda goofy.

Some viewers will love it and some will hate it; I’m somewhere in the middle.

A great horror film marred by a distracted middle and some tonal issues, Weapons is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

Established in 2012, the Bendigo Writers Festival is an annual end-of-winter event that celebrates and promotes the art of writing and storytelling.

It is a gathering of writers and creative thinkers from diverse backgrounds to exchange ideas and engage with audiences.

Forthcoming Bendigo Writers Festival PASSION FOR PROSE

The festival organisers pride themselves on promoting literacy and lifelong learning.

Cultural tourism also plays a significant role, helping to boost local economy, provide a sense of community, and offer a platform for emerging and established authors to promote their work.

In October 2019, the City of Greater Bendigo and the broader region was designated a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy – the first in Australia – recognising its rich food culture, commitment to sustainability, and its connection to First Nations’ culture and knowledge.

“Therefore, gastronomy has been one of the important pillars of the festival, hosting and organising special events to reflect on how our

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

culture and heritage is represented in the food we grow, eat and share,” the festival website declares.

This year, the festival will take place from Friday 15 to Sunday 17 August, starting with the Foodshare Pop Up Book Fair in the heart of the town’s precinct.

Every purchase of the thousands of preloved books will help to fight food insecurity across Central Victoria.

On Friday, there will be a series of special events for school kids, where some of Australia’s best-known illustrators will share their tips and techniques for creating illustrations.

There will be discussions on the joys and challenges of writing verse novels, and how personal experiences can inspire and shape the stories we share with others.

On Saturday, an impressive array of authors will reveal the extraordinary stories behind their books.

These include the impact of lockdowns on vulnerable people, the creation of spirited women characters, writing cozy crime novels, representing human rights in non-fiction graphic narratives, and what it means to write about Chinese diaspora – just to name a few.

Throughout the weekend there will be gastronomy-related author talks and expert panels, starting with a session on the unique nature of indigenous food.

A highlight is the intricate world of cookbook

publishing, while a separate panel will explore how the Australian palate has evolved over time and how that impacts the choices chefs make when designing menus and opening restaurants.

There is even a session called “To Meat or Not to Meat”.

Meanwhile, this reviewer is drawn to the festival’s “Cities of Literature Book Club”, which features books from seven literary cities around the world.

These are: Christophe Blain and JeanMarc Jancovici’s World Without End (Angouleme), Carlos Ruiz Zafón’s The Shadow of the Wind (Barcelona), Ian Rankin’s Midnight and Blue (Edinburgh), Emma Neale’s Liar, Liar, Like, Spit (Dunedin), Donal Ryan’s The Spinning Heart (Dublin), Victoria Amelina’s Looking at Women, Looking at War (Lviv), and Kev Lambert’s Querelle of Roberval (Quebec City).

The Bendigo Writers Festival website: bendigowritersfestival.com.au/

A scoliosis diagnosis doesn’t have to be something to panic about. (Unsplash)

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box. No. 250

ACROSS

1 Sharpshooter (8)

5 Aggressive maniac (6)

10 Relish (5)

11 Incapable of being seen (9)

12 Latin name of England (arch) (6)

13 Forest workers (7)

14 Endured (8)

15 Sickness (6)

18 Conviction (6)

20 Float (8)

21 Blasphemous (7)

24 Inflated (6)

27 Waxy secretion of sperm whale (9)

28 Prickle (5)

29 Cricket team (6)

30 Fire-resistant fibre (8)

DOWN

1 Extremely big in size, importance, etc. (4)

2 Indignant (9)

3 Multitude of fishes (5)

4 Brings to life (8)

6 First name of William Shakespeare’s oldest child (7)

7 Metal rope (5)

8 Hyperbolise (9)

9 Declare positively (4)

14 Conquer (9)

16 Taker of blame (9)

17 Fierce storms (8)

19 Declare one’s approval (7)

22 Wall with pointed roof (5)

23 Anecdote (4)

25 Measure of length (5)

26 Singles (4)

‘THE OLD POST’, MODERN TWIST ON A HISTORIC FARMHOUSE - 7 ACRES

NESTLED in a peaceful valley just minutes from Pakenham, this unique property seamlessly blends contemporary living with historic charm. Set on 7 flat, usable acres with the picturesque Bessie Creek winding through, it offers an exceptional lifestyle opportunity.

The light-filled, modern residence features four generous bedrooms, including a master retreat with bi-fold doors that open directly onto the deck—perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation. The open-plan kitchen and living area showcase striking timber and stainless-steel finishes, with expansive windows framing the lush rural views.

A second living space pays homage to the property’s rich past, complete with exposed timber beams, ambient rafter lighting, and preserved historic newspapers dating back to 1892. Local folklore suggests the property once served as the district’s post office, adding to its undeniable character and story. Outdoors, the property is fully equipped for rural living, with multiple well-fenced paddocks, two large sheds, a menage, and plenty of space for vehicle parking. The everflowing Bessie Creek ensures green paddocks year-round, making this an ideal setting for hobby farming, horses, or simply enjoying wide open spaces.

Contact Mick Dolphin on 0429 684 522 or Caiti Ellis on 0493 136 937 to arrange your private inspection today.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!! MODERN, LARGE BALCONY AND CARPARK

OFFERS CLOSING MONDAY 25 AUGUST AT 4PM **** (unless sold prior)

Welcome to The Edge; a Luxury Apartment located in the heart of Ringwood, it does not get any better than this!

This apartment has an abundance of natural light in a lifestyle complex like no other!

The apartment comprises of two carpeted bedrooms, both with built in robes, ensuite style effect bathroom to the master and access to the private balcony from the second bedroom. The bathroom includes a large shower, second toilet and vanity storage. Walking through you will find the powder room and hidden out of sight European Laundry.

The heart of this home features Tasmanian floorboards in the open plan kitchen/living area with double doors leading out to the private balcony with space to entertain and BBQ. The kitchen is complete with plenty of storage as well as stone benchtops, soft closing doors and drawers, dishwasher cavity (bring your own dishwasher) and Miele stainless steel appliances including a gas cook top & oven.

Other features include a Daikin heating and cooling split system for year round comfort, double built in linen/storage cupboard, external power point for the balcony, security intercom system, remote access to the secure basement car park, plus a storage cage, make the package almost irresistible!

All this and more conveniently located within close proximity to Mullum Mullum Creek Trail and parklands, Eastland Shopping Centre, Costco, Ringwood train station, public transport, Eastlink, and local schools.

Don’t miss out, call today and make this apartment your home!

Call Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 or Janet Hawkins 0409 117 432. ●

HOME FOCUS

THE ULTIMATE LIFESTYLE ESCAPE – POOL, SHEDS, VIEWS AND ROOM FOR EVERYONE

IF you’ve been dreaming of space, freedom, and a whole lot of lifestyle perks, this is it. Set on 2.5 glorious acres in Pakenham Upper, this brilliant 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home was built in 2010 by the current owners—and it’s got all the right ingredients for country living with a luxury twist.

Electric gates open to a private world of peace and potential. Step inside and you’re greeted with a warm brick feature wall, loads of natural light, and slab heating underfoot (yep, throughout the whole house—your toes will thank you). Add in a wood fire with heat transfer, ducted vacuum, and reverse-cycle heating/cooling and you’ve got comfort sorted in every season.

The kitchen? A dream. Granite benchtops, gas cooking, a large walk-in pantry with automatic lighting, and a bi-fold servery window that opens to the sunroom—perfect for morning coffees or sunset snacks with a view. The open-plan living and dining area is ideal for family hangs, while a second lounge adds that much-needed extra space.

The master suite is your private retreat, perfectly positioned to soak up the peaceful outlook. Large glass doors let in plenty of natural light and open directly to the outdoors, giving you that morning coffee-in-the-sun moment every day. Inside, you’ll find double walk-in robes and an open-plan ensuite that feels more like a personal spa—complete with a deep spa bath, oversized shower, and loads of space to unwind at the end of the day. Four more bedrooms (with robes) and a central bathroom offer flexibility for every setup. The laundry even includes a shower and toilet—no queues here!

Now let’s talk outdoors: a huge undercover entertaining area, fully fenced salt and chlorine pool, fire pit zone, and all the shedding you could hope for. There’s an 18m x 9m powered shed with 4.3m walls, double garage, 4-car carport, and even a generator plug for backup.

Need more? How about a separate studio with a split system, wood fire and kitchenette— perfect as a teen retreat, guest space or workfrom-home setup. There’s also a fenced dog run, veggie gardens, a massive chook pen, two

FamilyLivingon aQuarterAcreintheHeartofGembrook. Setona 1/4-acrein aprimeGembrooklocation,thisspaciousfamilyhomeisjust ashortstrollto shops,school &town.Featuringfloatingfloors& gasductedheating,itoffersthreelivingzones,four bedrooms,twobathrooms, &laundrywithstorage.Themasterenjoysa walk-inrobe& ensuite,while aprivatewingsuitsteensorguests.Theopen-plankitchenincludesstonebenchtops,walk-inpantry, gascooktop& dishwasher,flowingtoa coveredentertainingarea& fullyfencedbackyard.Extras includetwosheds(onepowered &tiled),doublegaragewithinternalentry& sideaccess.

M 0422996451

CharmingCottagewithRoomtoLive,Work& Play!

Tuckedawayon a¼ acreblock,thischaracter-filledcottageofferstheperfectblendofcharm, space& versatilityforfamiliesoranyonecraving alittleextrabreathingroom.With4 bedrooms &2 bathrooms,thehome’slayouthasbeenthoughtfullydesignedforbotheverydayliving& entertaining.Warmth& personalityshinethrougheverycorner—fromthecharmingcottagefacade &highceilingsthroughouttothe2 ambientlivingareas,1 withanopenfire &theotherwitha wood fire,whereyoucanunwindorhostfamilymovienights.Outside, aseparatestudio,idealforartists, remoteworkersorweekendhobbies,while apoweredworkshop &a gamesroommeanthere’s somethingforeveryone.Thefullyfencedblockisprivate& secure,withplentyofspaceforpets, gardens,orsimplyenjoyingthefreshair. Adoublecarportcompletesthepackage.

CharmingOff-GridLivingin aSereneLocation,NOBILLS!

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

Justunder15minutesfromPakenhamon aquietno-throughroad,thisremarkablepropertyoffers twohomes,horsefacilitiesandseriousshedding.Themainhomefeaturespolishedhardwood floors,anopenplankitchenwithvalleyviews,spaciousloungewithwoodfire,splitsystem,updated bathroom,threebedrooms,masterwithensuiteandwalk-throughrobe,plus alargecovereddeck totakeintheoutlook.Betweenthehomesis ahugegarageandworkshopwithhoist,rackingand power,plus adoublecarport.Thesecondresidencehasitsowndrivewayandpower —perfectfor family,guestsorrental— withtwobedrooms,modernkitchen,light-filledliving,bigbathroomanda sunnydeck.Enjoy10fencedpaddocks,a roundyard,dayyardsonapprox.two-thirdsclearedland, fullyfencedandreadyforyouandyourhorses.

A 3 B 11 C

DISCOVER ‘CHAYAH’ – YOUR 35 ACRE ESCAPE

ESCAPE the city and embrace a new way of living at Chayah—a remarkable 35-acre property where countryside charm meets thoughtful design and income potential.

Located just an hour from Melbourne and a short 30-minute drive from Berwick, this lifestyle haven offers more than just a home— it’s a place to thrive.

At the heart of the property is a dualliving homestead featuring 7 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, ideal for large families, two families buying the property to cohabitate, multi-generational living, or hosting guests.

Whether you’re seeking a tree-change, launching a boutique farm stay, or expanding your equine business, Chayah presents a rare blend of serenity, practicality, and financial opportunity.

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

Property Highlights

35 acres of rolling green pastures, dotted with mature trees and picturesque vistas.

Two residences connected via an innovative “airlock” design, complete with double-glazed windows for year-round comfort and beautiful recycled red bricks. 7 bedrooms | 4 bathrooms – perfect for extended family living or income generation.

A Sustainable Sanctuary

Fed by a perennial spring-fed creek—a reliable water source for both home and farm. Solar power also keeps the bills down.

Passive eco-design incorporating reclaimed materials, rustic timbers, and natural finishes.

Separate decks for each dwelling to enjoy tranquil views and the scent of native eucalyptus.

Equestrian Excellence

Operating horse agistment business in place—ready to go!

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

Farming & Infrastructure

Goat-friendly paddocks fenced and creekaccessible.

Cattle yard with truck access.

Multiple outbuildings: including an insulated workshop, hay shed, machinery shed, woodshed, and a chook shed with chook run.

Abundant Gardens & Produce

Low-maintenance gardens on fertile soil.

Established fruit trees: pomegranate, apricot, fig, and blood orange included.

60,000L rainwater tanks plus spring-fed supply for peace of mind.

Income Potential

Roadside kiosk income from hay sales.

Existing Airbnb listing featuring 2 bedrooms, a bathroom, modern kitchen, and open-plan living with a private rear balcony.

A Lifestyle to Love

Chayah is more than a property—it’s an opportunity to live with intention. Ideal for a peaceful retreat, productive farm venture, or creative hospitality concept, it’s ready for its next chapter.

Just minutes from all the township of Cockatoo has to offer, CBD rail connections in nearby Pakenham, you’ll feel miles from anywhere, yet close to facilities. ●

WellCraftedRetroClassiconNear¼ acreofFlatLand

Thishomeisneedinga newownerfora make-over,wellbuiltandspaciouswithplentyof potential–hereisyouropportunity!

Ithasseverallargelivingspaces,onefeaturinganoriginalchandelier, asunkenlounge withvaultedceilings,brickfeaturewalland fireplace.Thereisalsoa separaterumpus roomwith alovelylargewindowsproviding aviewtothebackyard.Thebedroomsareall spacious,themainwithWIRandfullensuite,twofurtherbedroomshavebuiltinrobes.

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Don’tMissOutonthisGem!

Setina quietandconvenientpocketofBayswaterNorth,thisbeautifullypresentedsinglestorytownhouseofferstheperfectblendofspace,light,andlifestyle.Featuringthree generousbedrooms,anopen-planlivinganddiningarea,andanabundanceofnatural light,thishomeisdesignedforeasymodernliving.

DavidStewart 0411655611

PerfectAcre.PerfectHugeShed.FreeCottage Million-dollarviewsandmagicalsunsetstoo! Thequaint2-bedroomcottageCirca1923needssomeTLC,youmightchoosetomake theimprovementsorutilizetheblockandpositiontobuildyour‘foreverhome’(subject tocouncilapproval).Itisperfectlycomfortablewith aloungewithwoodfire,separate diningroom,timberkitchenfeaturingpressedmetalsplashback,a laundry/bathroom combinedfeaturingexcellentstorage, aclawfootbath,shower,andcustomvanity

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ChoiceLocation –RareOpportunity!

Situatedwithin ashortstrollofUpweyvillage,transport,shopsandschools,this immaculatelypresentedunitisdrenchedinnaturallightandoffersthebestofbothworlds in amuchsought-afterlocation.Weallknowhowharditisto find aunitinthehills;so whetheryouarea firsthomebuyerorinvestoryouwillbeimpressed!

GrantSkipsey 0418528102

HOME FOCUS

IDYLLIC FAMILY RETREAT IN THE HEART OF UPWEY

SET amidst the serene beauty of the Dandenong Ranges on a level and highly usable 1,271sqm (approx.), 18 Glenfern Avenue, Upwey offers a rare opportunity to secure a cherished family home in one of the area’s most sought-after pockets. Lovingly built and meticulously maintained by its original owners, this exceptional residence has been thoughtfully designed with lifestyle and family in mind. Surrounded by lush greenery and filled with the soothing sounds of native birdlife - and even the distant whistle of the iconic Puffing Billy - the property provides a peaceful escape without compromising on convenience.

Upon entry, the home immediately welcomes you with its warmth and practical layout. To the right, the master bedroom enjoys calming garden views and is complete with a large mirrored robe, a second built-in robe, and a private ensuite. Adjacent is a second bedroom, ideal for children or guests. To the left, the light-filled lounge and dining space creates a warm and versatile zone, complemented by a built-in study nook that’s perfect for working or studying from home. The home then unfolds into a spacious openplan kitchen, meals, and family area - the heart of the residence, where everyday living and entertaining come together effortlessly.

The kitchen is beautifully appointed with sleek black stone benchtops, soft-toned cabinetry, generous preparation space, and premium Bosch appliances including an electric oven, dishwasher, and a Glem gas cooktop - making it a delight for any home chef. Further down the hall, a third generously sized bedroom, a fully renovated main bathroom with floating vanity and LEDlit mirror, and a large laundry with a striking glass splashback round out the interior spaces.

Bi-fold doors in the family area open to an enclosed alfresco space, elegantly framed by glass folding panels and enhanced by LED-lit niches, creating the perfect setting for year-round entertaining while overlooking the lush, secure backyard. The outdoor area is thoughtfully designed for families, with fencing to keep children and pets safely contained, and a rear access gate from Matson Drive ideal for parking extra vehicles, a boat, or caravan.

Comfort and convenience are assured year-round with zoned reverse-cycle heating and refrigerated cooling, while a full security system with cameras, an alarm, and a keyless entry pad offers peace of mind. The double garage includes a rear roller door and additional driveway parking. Two water tanks (5,500L and 2,000L) support the garden, ensuite toilet, and an integrated fire safety sprinkler system, while under-house storage ,Large solar with Tesla battery adds even more functionality.

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Indigenous round marked

By Dongyun Kwon

Coldstream Football Netball Club celebrated its own Indigenous Round on Saturday 2 August.

The footballers wore their inaugural Indigenous guernsey for the first time.

The jumper was designed by two women’s players, Sophie Stark and Kahla Gossip, who both have First Nations backgrounds.

Darkinjung woman Stark said that the theme of the artwork is Stronger Together.

“On the design, there’s a central meeting place which symbolises our club, and then underneath that, there’s a waterhole with streams coming off it that’s to represent us, Coldstream,” she said.

“There are kangaroo tracks around it to represent us playing on country.

“At the bottom, there are mountains, and they represent backdrops of our home grounds.”

“On the piece, you can see there are two people present at the bottom, which represents a mother and a daughter, which particularly reflects around the many women and children that contribute to the club on and off the field,” Kalkadoon woman Gossip added.

The two players came up with the idea of designing an Indigenous guernsey after one of the junior players experienced bullying and racial discrimination around her skin colour and culture.

Through this project, the two artists wished to promote the culture of supporting each other within the club, which has a high Indigenous population.

“As a club, we are better when we are all on one side,” Gossip said.

In the round, the women’s team played against South Croydon while the Men’s teams took on Upper Ferntree Gully at their home ground, Halley Supple Reserve.

South Croydon women joined the special occasion by wearing their own Indigenous jumper.

Unfortunately, Upper Ferntree Gully footballers couldn’t wear an Indigenous guernsey for the game as they have no such uniform, but they were very actively involved with Coldstream’s celebration.

“Women’s are now in the finals, sitting second place on the ladder, so we have to wait to speak to the league (if we could wear the Indigenous jumpers in the final games). We would love to be able to wear our Indigenous jumpers through finals,” the Kalkadoon woman said.

“The plan will be that they are also worn next year, particularly around those Indigenous Rounds.

“There will be multiple occasions throughout the year we’d really like to celebrate with wearing them.”

The sporting club successfully distributed the special jumper to the players for free of charge thanks to five sponsors: State Plant Hire, DNA Tree Services, Victorian Roof Access and Safety, Eastern Security and Communications, and Harris and Co Painting Solutions.

“We were really fortunate to have five sponsors between the women’s and men’s teams,” Gossip said.

“The jumpers were fully covered, and it really again promoted Stronger Together with the community supporting us by wearing them.

“It was really incorporating the whole community in this design and getting it out there.”

With this special guernsey, Coldstream Football Netball Club will continue to be more than just a sporting club.

It will continue to be a place of cultural celebrations, community pride, showing off players’ hidden talents and supporting each other in tough periods.

Elder attends match, despite disappointment

By Dongyun Kwon

Ahead of the NRL’s Indigenous Round match last Thursday night, a local senior Aboriginal elder said she would attend the game despite a previous issue not yet being resolved with the Melbourne Storm Rugby Club’s board.

For the Anzac Day Round, senior Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung elder Aunty Joy Murphy Wandin AO was invited by Melbourne Storm to the stadium to perform the Welcome to Country prior to the match.

She told ABC News in April that she received a phone call from the rugby club’s chief executive officer while she was on her way to AAMI Park,

saying her Welcome to Country had been cancelled due to the booing that had occurred earlier that day.

In the early morning on Anzac Day, Bunurong and Gunditjmara elder Mark Brown was interrupted by a group of neo-Nazis while he was delivering a Welcome to Country at Melbourne’s Anzac Day dawn service at the Shrine of Remembrance.

Following the issue, the Melbourne Storm released a statement, stating that there was a clear misunderstanding between the board and management, which had caused confusion with the pre-game cultural ceremony, and apologising for it.

Melbourne Storm won against the Brisbane Broncos for the Indigenous Round at their home pitch on 7 August.

Aunty Joy released a statement prior to the match and said she would attend the Indigenous Round game to show support for the players, staff, communities and supporting fans, although she was disappointed that she had not been able to reach a resolution with the club’s board after the club’s decision to cancel the Welcome to Country ceremony on Anzac Day.

“This is about the board, not the game. This is about setting a standard not just for Melbourne Storm but across all sporting codes,” Aunty Joy said in the statement.

“I will always stand strong beside community and as a leader take responsibility to care for those who hurt badly.

“We value our long association with Storm and would like this to continue, but the association of a standing board member with Advance Australia means that we cannot safely undertake formal ceremonies.”

Djirri Djirri, a Wurundjeri female dance group, Ng M tai P rua, Te Hononga o Ng Iwi and Te Ara Hononga, the M ori communities living across the Kulin Nations, clearly expressed their stance to stand alongside Aunty Joy, not engaging with the Melbourne Storm until the board announces meaningful changes.

Two designers Kahla Gossip (left) and Sophie Stark. (Davis Harrigan Photography)

Coldstream Football Netball Club celebrated its own Indigenous Round on Saturday 2 August, by wearing its inaugural Indigenous guernsey. (Davis Harrigan Photography)

Women’s player Nicole Moate during smoking ceremony. (Davis Harrigan Photography)

Sore loss for the Eagles

By Callum Ludwig and Braden Zammit

The Lilydale Eagles welcomed Waverley City to the Nest, marking a top-of-the-table clash for the Reserves and a good chance to bank a win for the Seniors.

The undermanned Reserves were up first in perfect conditions and it looked like the Eagles were in for a challenge from early on.

The Eagles struggled to deal with the short passing, possession play of their opponents in blue but remained resolute early in the half, scrambling to defend effectively or riding their luck as Waverley struck the post.

Waverley found a lot of joy down their left wing and it would be this position that would provide their breakthrough when Lilydale’s Amin Fazl swept the legs of a Waverley attacker and gave away a penalty, which was dispatched.

The Eagles bounced back for a short period after the goal, having a short period where they looked threatening.

In particular, Tarin Cooper had his header on goal denied by a fine save from the keeper.

Unfortunately for Lilydale, this momentum would be lost when they conceded a second goal in the 40th minute. Dongyun ‘Andy’ Kwon tried to play a bouncing ball back to keeper Callum Ludwig, who could only hook his clearance into the path of James ‘Becks’ Laine. He wan’t able to control the ball, with Waverley pressing, stealing the ball and scoring.

The Eagles needed to lift in the second half to have any chance of being the first side to take points off of Waverley this season.

Things got off to a poor start in the second half however, when a long bouncing ball got over the back of Becks and he was unable to get to it first, with the Waverley forward lobbing the onrushing Ludwig in the 49th minute.

The Eagles were not communicating well, weren’t committing to winning the 50/50s and were outplayed by their opposition.

The Eagles went on to concede two more quick goals in the 65th and 68th minute and weren’t able to make any inroads in the game despite a formation change to try and be more attacking.

A disappointing 0-5 loss at home, and the Reserves will now have to regroup if they want to try and secure second spot by the end of the season.

The Seniors were up next and looking to do the double over Waverley this season having won convincingly away earlier in the season.

Things got off to a poor start when an attempted clearance across the face of goal by Leo Blair was cut out, setting Waverley away who were able to tuck home the first goal of the game in the ninth minute.

After the goal, both sides had chances and moments where they got on top.

Waverley had another chance when the striker appeared to have directed a header from close range towards goal that was saved by Ludwig, with a defensive scramble saved by the ref

calling a foul for a push.

The Eagles best chance came from Daniel ‘Dicko’ Dickson who appeared to have the goal at his mercy but his effort was straight at the keeper who managed to tip it onto the bar and over.

Waverley had more one chance where the right winger was played through on goal but Ludwig was able to come out and smother.

Boundary line reporter Braden Zammit stepped in to provide coverage of the second half as Ludwig had to depart (see below):

After a half time speech from the former coach Julian Harries, the Eagles boys came out with a better intensity then the first half. With a better shape defensively, the Lilydale lads were able to carve out more possession and become more of a threat.

It would get worse before it got better however, with the Eagles’ Levi Clausen scoring an own goal to double Waverley’s advantage in the 65th minute.

In the 75th minute, Ethan Emmett absolutely rinsed his opponent with a lethal stepover to beat his man and was clinical enough to slash it through the back of the net.

With that goal, the Eagles had more confidence and looked more lively. With more midfield possession and control Jake ‘Digga’ Dioguardi found some space on the right to loop into the box which then managed to find

its way to the big man Kaiden Deany-Smith who did so well to scurry away into space to strike well, score and extend his golden boot tally.

The Lilydale lads almost came undone with 30 seconds to go with a last minute flashing counter attack that leaked through the defence

and found ‘keeper Dicko in a one-on-one situation where luckily he fouled outside the box. Waverley took the free kick and luckily for the Eagles, it was no threat at all. The game ended 2-2, all being a fair result. Lilydale will travel away to take on Healesville next week.

Coldstream Seniors continue to be in Division 3

By Dongyun Kwon

At the last game of the 2025 Home and Away Season, Coldstream Seniors desperately wanted a win to avoid bottom place on the ladder. Coldstream footballers took on Silvan for this important game, luckily on their home turf at Halley Supple Oval.

In the first half, it wasn’t easy for the Coldstream Seniors as the away team didn’t let the home team play their game.

Giving one point lead to the opponent, the Coldstream footballers took their morale back in the second quarter to keep their hope of not being relegated alive.

Adding two goals and four behinds, Coldstream finished the first half with a nine-point lead.

After seeing the hope, Coldstream players got into the second half with confidence, scoring two majors and three behinds while the opponents scored only one behind during the third quarter.

Despite Silvan working hard to finish their regular season with a win, the Coldstream Seniors succeeded in keeping their lead and wrap-

Despite being on home turf, Coldstream couldn’t take home advantage in the first quarter, losing five goals and three behinds while scoring two goals and two behinds.

In the second quarter, Coldstream showed the determination to finish the season with a win, adding two majors.

Coldstream kept up the good morale in the next quarter, taking the lead back.

Before getting into the last quarter, the scoreboard saw Coldstream 8.4.52 to Silvan 6.7.43.

Unfortunately, Silvan footballers didn’t let Coldsream players get the result they wanted, turning back the lead again.

The final score disappointed the Coldstream, Silvan 8.10.58 to Coldstream 8.7.55.

Coldstream Senior Women faced a bitter result in their first Finals round.

They took on Heathmont at Mulgrave Reserve.

But the opponent was too strong, dominating the whole game.

The final score was Heathmont 6.8.44 to Coldstream 1.3.9.

The Coldstream women will take one more chance to keep their finals journey alive next

Jasper Blair hooks the ball towards goal. (Dongyun Kwon: 495333)

Leo Blair intercepts the ball. (Dongyun Kwon: 495333)

score was Coldstream 7.8.50 to Silvan 5.5.35.

The win helped Coldstream continue to play in Division 3 next season.

Coldstream Reserves played against Silvan.

Coldstream Seniors won the last game of the season. (Supplied)

Mixed round but spirits high

By Geoff ‘Joffa’ Newstead

It was a big weekend for the Mooroolbark Mustangs with the great results and some not so great results. The Vets Women kicked off proceedings on Friday night in a knockout semi final. Unfortunately the girls season came to an end as they went down to South Belgrave by 17 points. The girls have had another very competitive season and look forward to carrying that form into season 2026.

Final Score: Sth Belgrave 4 – 5 – 29 d Mooroolbark 2 – 0 – 12

Goals: Gledhill 1, Hoare 1

Saturday saw the Senior Men and Reserves host ladder leaders, South Belgrave, at the Heights Reserve in perfect conditions. The Ressies were always going to be up against it but, to their credit, fought the game out to the very end with coach Paul Toleman full of praise for their efforts. Skipper Jon Fraser was once again very busy in the last line of defence and if it wasn’t for his many strong marks the margin would have been much bigger. Further up the field Cambell Wyss and Josh Logg gained many possessions with Billy Toleman and Kynan Kowalski also having good games. The final margin was 37 points but the Mustang boys can be very proud of their efforts against quality opposition.

Final Score: Sth Belgrave 8 – 15 – 63 d Mooroolbark 4 – 2 – 26

Goals: Logg 2, T. Batten, Kowalski 1 each Best Players: Fraser, Wyss, Logg, Toleman, Kowalski, Graham

It was good to see a large contingent of old faces turn up for the Past Players Day to cheer on the Seniors. It was also the 10th anniversary of the Under 19’s Premiership of 2015 and it was great to see 16 members of that side turn up. Current captain, Kane Noonan, and solid defender, Jon Egan were also part of that team and joined in the celebrations after completing their playing duties. The Seniors came out against top of the ladder South Belgrave and put up a brave fight against top quality opposition. Although never looking like winning the Mustangs threw everything they could at the Saints and made them earn their 41 point win. Jett Hartman again took many saving marks in defence and was voted best. Marcus Hamilton and Josh Amiet continued their recent good form and Kane Noonan again provided drive out of the centre and around the ground.

Final Score: Sth Belgrave 13 – 16 – 94 d Mooroolbark 7 – 11 – 53

Goals: Amiet 2, TeBoekhorst 2, Gebert, Gilbee, Downie 1 each

Best Players: Hartman, Hamilton, Amiet, Noonan, Ryan, Downie

The footy continued on to Sunday when we hosted junior finals at The Heights, again in perfect weather. It was a great day for the club and a big thank you goes out to all the players who turned up to help out in jobs like canteen, barbecue, gate etc. It’s been a very frustrating season on the field but it’s events like this that show there is still great spirit and dedication amongst the player group.

While all this was going on at The Heights the Senior Women were over at Mulgrave Reserve fighting for a Grand Final berth against Blackburn. The girls went into the half time break with a 22 point lead and while the Blackburn girls fought back in the second half the Mustangs went on to record a solid 18 point victory and march straight into the Grand Final in two weeks time.

Final Score: Mooroolbark 5 – 10 – 40 d Blackburn 3 – 4 – 22

Goals: McMaster 2, Hayman, Carrucan, Doevelaar 1 each

Final Score: Mooroolbark 13 – 4 – 82 d Waverley Blues 2 – 4 – 16

Goals: Cardamone 5, Mullett 3, Polkinghorne 2, S. Dimitriou, D. Dimitriou, Mollica 1 each Best Players: Cardamone, Chivers, Neumann, Polkinghorne, D. Dimitriou, Leary

Best Players: S. Haberfield, Forrest, McMaster, Beer, Doevelaar, R. Haberfield Back at The Heights, the junior finals had wrapped up, and it was now time for the Vets Men to strut their stuff as they took on Waverley Blues for a spot in the big dance. The Mustangs have been dominant all season and continued their great form in this game, running out 66-point winners. Michael Cardamone was on target down forward, booting five goals and was ably supported by Ben Mullett, who slotted through three majors. Daniel Dimitriou put in his best game for the season, and Matt Polkinghorne and Jeremy Neumann gathered many possessions around the ground. It’s been a great season for the Vets in their first year back in the competition, and one more game should see them achieve the ultimate success.

Monbulk holds off Emerald in low-scoring win

By Armin Richter

Football Premier Division (Round 16)

Seniors: Woori Yallock 20.16.136 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 5.9.39; Healesville 12.8.80 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 12.7.79; Upwey-Tecoma 10.12.72 def Mt. Evelyn 9.8.62; Wandin 26.18.174 def Officer 11.13.79; Monbulk 9.11.65 def Emerald 7.11.53

Reserves: Gembrook-Cockatoo 10.13.73 def Woori Yallock 4.3.27; Olinda-Ferny Creek 11.7.73 def Healesville 6.7.43; Upwey-Tecoma 9.3.57 def Mt. Evelyn 7.8.50; Wandin 10.20.80 def Officer 7.6.48; Monbulk 9.10.64 def Emerald 8.7.55 Under 18: Woori Yallock 7.9.51 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 7.5.47; Healesville 11.9.75 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 4.5.29; Mt. Evelyn 8.16.64 def Upwey-Tecoma 3.4.22; Wandin 10.14.74 def Officer 7.11.53; Monbulk bye Division 1 (Round 17)

Seniors: Belgrave 23.16.154 def Yarra Junction 7.9.51; Yarra Glen 15.13.103 def Powelltown 8.12.60; Pakenham 12.9.81 def Warburton-Millgrove 5.8.38; Alexandra 9.2.56 def Yea 7.12.54; Seville bye Reserves: Belgrave 18.23.131 def Yarra Junc-

tion 2.1.13; Powelltown 9.3.57 def Yarra Glen 6.11.47; Pakenham 8.10.58 def Warburton-Millgrove 3.6.24; Alexandra 12.7.79 def Yea 5.5.35; Seville bye

Under 18: Pakenham 28.12.180 def Warburton-Millgrove 1.0.6; Seville 24.14.158 def Yarra

Glen 3.3.21; Alexandra 8.5.53 def Yea 5.3.33

Women (Div 1 Finals): QF Mt. Evelyn 9.10.64 def Upwey-Tecoma 1.0.6; EF Healesville 6.6.42 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 2.9.21

Women (Div 2 Finals): QF Warburton-Wesburn 8.13.61 def Wandin 2.0.12; EF Emerald 8.2.50 def Yea 0.3.3

Veterans Over 35 (Round 10): Belgrave 14.13.97 def Officer 5.2.32; Gembrook-Cockatoo 7.8.50 def Yarra Glen 4.3.27; Mt. Evelyn bye

Netball

Premier Division (Round 16)

A Grade: Olinda-Ferny Creek 63 def Healesville 56; Monbulk 56 def Emerald 45; Mt. Evelyn 71 def Upwey-Tecoma 31; Woori Yallock 58 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 26; Wandin 61 def ROC 48

B Grade: Olinda-Ferny Creek 82 def Healesville 14; Monbulk 60 def Emerald 50; Mt. Evelyn 61 def Upwey-Tecoma 24; Woori Yallock 61 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 41; ROC 66 def Wandin 38

C Grade: Emerald 36 def Monbulk 26; Mt. Ev-

elyn 62 def Upwey-Tecoma 14; Gembrook-Cockatoo 36 def Woori Yallock 34; Wandin 35 def ROC 33; Olinda-Ferny Creek bye

D Grade: Monbulk 36 def Emerald 21; Mt. Evelyn 29 def Upwey-Tecoma 20; Woori Yallock 33 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 26; ROC 31 def Wandin 15; Olinda-Ferny Creek bye

Under 17: Mt. Evelyn 51 def Woori Yallock 26; Emerald 26 def Monbulk 24; ROC Blue 55 def Wandin 23; ROC White bye Under 15: ROC White 24 def Woori Yallock 17; Monbulk Gold 28 def Pakenham Maroon 25; Monbulk Maroon 43 def Pakenham Gold 20

Division 1 (Round 17)

A Grade: Pakenham 41 def Warburton-Millgrove 33; Yarra Junction 54 def Belgrave 35; Alexandra 58 def Yea 32; Yarra Glen 83 def Powelltown 30; Seville bye

B Grade: Belgrave 39 def Yarra Junction 31; Alexandra 50 def Yea 38; Yarra Glen 77 def Powelltown 33; Pakenham 46 def Warburton-Millgrove 31; Seville bye

C Grade: Yarra Junction 37 def Belgrave 27; Alexandra 43 def Yea 34; Yarra Glen 68 def Powelltown 11; Pakenham 34 def Warburton-Millgrove 22; Seville bye

D Grade: Yarra Junction 24 def Belgrave 18; Alexandra 30 def Yea

Mooroolbark Football Club celebrated 10 years since the Under 19s premiership win with a reunion of players. (Supplied)

Josh Rak of Monbulk receives the ball out of congestion. (Anthea Heagney)

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Welcome to Clovelly Cottage. Nestled in the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges but still within close proximity to the Boronia Junction shopping precinct and amenities, it is a place our residents are proud to call home. Featuring abundant indoor and outdoor spaces with a choice of private sanctuaries and communal living, we are dedicated to delivering excellence in care and services that enable residents to live well and celebrate the autumn years of their life.