Old tech, new purpose
With flus, viruses and other bacteria rife across commonly used surfaces, a Lilydale metal works company set out to provide a solution for supermarkets and their trolleys.
Using an ultraviolet light disinfection technique, the surface of trolleys and hand-held baskets can be rid of the microorganisms causing these illnesses to spread in just seconds.
Now, with a prototype designed and manufactured, with the help of a leading UVC expert, Rovin Metal Works hopes to engage with supermarkets and shopping centres to see if this technique is viable.
To read more, turn to page 7
Rovin Metal Works’ Vinnie Fraraccio, Mark Eady, Shane Rode and Robert Gardiner. (Stewart Chambers: 497757)
Youth are in crisis
By Mikayla van Loon
The rate of children and young people accessing homelessness services without a parent or guardian has hit record figures, worrying local homelessness organisations.
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) released new statistics indicating that 13,300 unaccompanied children sought help from specialist homelessness services (SHS) in the past year.
Anchor Community Care chief executive officer Heidi Tucker said it “shows the shocking reality of what homelessness looks like”.
The data and Anchor’s experience of working with young people identifies that family breakdowns, family violence and the housing crisis are pushing children and young people into homelessness because of a lack of safety.
Ms Tucker said because of this, young people are not necessarily choosing homelessness but “they are seeking safety, support and wellbeing”.
That’s why Anchor and other services are pushing for a youth focused homelessness strategy, as well as more preventative measures to ensure children and young people don’t fall through the gaps.
This requires schools, sporting clubs, health and mental health and community groups working together or at least being able to recognise when a child is at risk of homelessness, and alert the right services.
Read the full story on page 6
Ms Tucker said the integration of services, to be able to identify, engage and respond, would be key to preventing and supporting youth facing homelessness.
Burn plans lacking, say CFA
By Callum Ludwig
The CFA’s latest post-season bushfire community survey has revealed a troubling statistic about the lack of preparedness ahead of the upcoming fire season.
Of the 611 people who took this year’s survey, nearly 40 per cent living in bushfire-prone areas did not have a bushfire plan.
CFA District 13, which covers the Outer East, assistant chief fire officer David Renkin said locally we’ve seen new people moving in and certainly not having a very good understanding of the risk in certain areas.
“All these plans need to be in place early, they need to be practised with their families and the families need to know and understand what that means and what that looks like then make a decision early,” he said.
“If their area has been identified as a risk during a heightened fire danger day, then they need to make those decisions early for the safety of their own people and ensure that they are safe for anything that may occur in and around their area,”
“The weather outlook is certainly showing the potential for increased fire, now is the time to actually start to take the steps to ensure that your family is safe.”
The CFA survey has been carried out annually since 2009 and this year, 20 per cent of people didn’t believe leaving early was the safest option to protect themselves and their loved ones and 16 per cent of people planned to stay and attempt their property
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said he is concerned about the distressing statistics and warning Victorians that now is not the time to be complacent with an earlier and more active fire season predicted.
“It is never too early to prepare, don’t gamble with your safety this season, residents living in high fire-risk areas must take their preparation more seriously,” he said.
“Take a moment to sit down with your household and make a plan so everyone knows what they need to do and where they need to go if a fire threatens your local area,”
“It’s easy to panic and make poor decisions if you’re not prepared, and the last thing you want in an emergency is to become trapped, leaving early is your greatest form of protection.”
The last two years of the survey have seen a seismic shift in Victoria’s perceptions of bushfire risk from very large to small, with 50 per cent of people not showing concern and nearly 40 per cent are not alarmed enough to warrant direct interaction with CFA.
CFA are particularly worried by the survey data showing that those least concerned, and less likely to be prepared, were located just 500 metres to one kilometre from bushland.
The Montrose bushfire at the start of 2025 was a recent reminder of how important it is to
have a plan, with many residents complaining at a community meeting about the adequacy of emergency warning systems.
Mr Renkin said as an organisation, they do have limitations in regards to the amount of resources they have and what they can actually provide in a major fire scenario.
“In regards to the Montrose fire, we certainly had enough resources to be able to manage the fire but it was a bit disconcerting to see some of the feedback from residents that certainly didn’t have an action plan in place or continued to monitor the fire activity at the time,” he said.
“I’m certainly seeing complacency at times come from the community…our crews are well and well and truly prepared, ready to go, and have been undertaking training for quite a number of months to get ready for this fire sea-
son,”
“But the thing I’d probably say is that we as an organisation, we can’t do it all on our own, we rely heavily on the community to do the right thing by their families and maintain their properties and ensure that there’s opportunities to defend their property if the occasion arises.”
A further 31 per cent of survey respondents would delay leaving until threatened by a bushfire, waiting for the danger to increase or for instructions from emergency services.
Mr Renkin said people without a bushfire plan need to visit the CFA website and utilise the tools that are there, as well as be engaged with their local brigades who can provide assistance to these residents with their plans.
“A lot of people are not aware of the impact of spotting from these fires has and that could be some distance from a main fire, which will then
cause smaller spot fires to then grow into larger fires, which is something that we saw, certainly in the 09’ fires, where spotting distances were in excess of 15 kilometres,” he said.
“I think there’s a lack of understanding there from the community in regards to what fire behaviour really looks like and it’s interesting in some of the surveys where people have articulated that they would stay to protect property, as without actually being exposed to fires and seeing the behaviour of fire and being fully prepared, there is a very great risk of these people potentially being caught,”
“It’s all good and fine to say they might stay to protect but if they haven’t actually been exposed to fires, there is a risk of panic and the like setting in and that’s the unfortunate time that we possibly see people perish through making the decision to leave too late.”
Bin it or face years behind bars for machete ban
By Ethan James, AAP
Victoria’s ban on machetes has begun, with penalties of up to two years’ jail or a fine of more than $47,000 for people who break the rules.
The law change from Monday 1 September makes it illegal to own, use, carry, transport or sell the knives without an exemption or valid approval.
The state fast-tracked an interim machete sales ban after a fight between rival gangs at Melbourne’s Northland Shopping Centre sent shoppers running for their lives.
Police Minister Anthony Carbines urged people to hand in machetes as part of a three-month amnesty running until November 30.
More than 40 safe disposal bins have been installed at police stations across the state, including Lilydale and Ringwood, to allow people to hand in machetes without penalty.
“We encourage all Victorians to play their part to dry up the supply of machetes in our community,” Mr Carbines told reporters.
The laws are among the toughest in Australia - South Australia enacted a ban on machetes and swords in July.
Some 14,805 edged weapons were seized in Victoria in 2024, with another 8900 confiscated by police between January and July.
Since May, a task force has completed
573 in-store and online inspections, as well as 2400 market stall inspections, and found a high level of compliance with the sales ban.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has urged parents to hand in machetes belonging to their kids, noting children make up
25 per cent of knife-crime offenders in the state. There are exemptions under the laws for agricultural workers who use machetes as part of their job and for machetes that have a genuine traditional, historical, or cultural significance.
The Montrose fire in March threatened properties, with one house reportedly burned and another damaged. (Boronia CFA)
Machete safe disposal bins are now located at police stations, including Lilydale and Ringwood. (Stewart Chambers: 499868)
Neo-Nazi charged
By Callum Godde and Emily Woods, AAP
A self-confessed white nationalist has been charged after he and his followers allegedly attacked an Aboriginal protest site.
Dozens of officers arrested Thomas Sewell outside Melbourne Magistrates Court on Tuesday afternoon, along with two of his supporters.
Sewell was allegedly among about 40 men dressed in black accused of storming Camp Sovereignty on Sunday evening after attending an anti-immigration rally in the CBD.
Footage showed Sewell, associate Nathan Bull and others lashing out at people gathered at the site, where the remains of Indigenous people from 38 clans are located.
Victoria Police said three men - a 32-yearold from Balwyn, a 23-year-old from Mooroolbark and a 20-year-old from Ardeer - were later charged with violent disorder, affray and other offences after being interviewed over the King’s Domain incident.
Sewell was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday. He fronted court again on Friday 5 September where he was denied bail.
“I’m satisfied there is a risk he would, if released, endanger the safety and welfare of others,” magistrate Donna Bakos said.
Independent senator Lidia Thorpe, whose uncle Robbie Thorpe established the camp, welcomed Sewell’s arrest but accused police of dropping the ball by not keeping the neo-Nazis away.
“This is a hate crime,” she told the ABC.
“Camp Sovereignty is a sacred space. It is our place of worship.
“If it were a mosque or a synagogue, it would be taken more seriously.”
Indigenous Australians Minister Malarndirri McCarthy said the attack on Camp Sovereignty was like nothing she had seen in her nearly 10year parliamentary career.
“These people brazenly and openly did not care if they were seen,” she said.
Sewell was in court on Tuesday for a hearing over charges of intimidating police and breaching multiple personal intervention orders.
He spent the morning cross-examining a witness as he represented himself.
Sewell asked the witness questions about rights of protesting groups, including neo-Nazis, and whether it was a conflict of interest for police to investigate themselves.
He returned to court after the lunch break, when prosecutor Melissa Mahady asked the magistrate to close the room to media and members of the public.
“The order is necessary to protect the safety of any person,” she told the court.
The court did not resume after that time.
Earlier, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan was speaking to journalists in Melbourne when Sewell interrupted.
Flanked by Bull, Sewell began yelling at Ms Allan and making false claims about protest rights.
Several men stepped in to keep Sewell away from the premier as she and two colleagues walked away.
“You’re a coward and we’re going to take this country back from politicians like you,” Sewell shouted.
Ms Allan promised to ban protests outside places of worship and stop demonstrators from wearing face coverings after Sewell led a series of
The changes are yet to be introduced to state parliament and may be scaled back.
Tuesday’s confrontation lasted less than a minute, cutting short the media conference.
Sewell ended his tirade with “Heil Australia” and told journalists the interaction was a “coincidence”.
“We’re on our way to court right now,” he said.
In a statement, the premier confirmed she was “unharmed and undeterred” and said it was no surprise Nazis opposed her and the Labor state government.
“We know how these goons operate,” she said.
“They whip up fear to divide our society. They will fail.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese labelled the confrontation “quite horrific” when speaking to Labor caucus members in Canberra.
Journalists were asking the premier about the “March for Australia” in Melbourne, where Sewell was controversially allowed to speak.
Ms Allan revealed she was reconvening the government’s anti-hate task force in response to the nationwide anti-immigration rallies.
Man charged over Anzac Day incident
A Mooroolbark man has been charged following an alleged incident at the Shrine of Remembrance on Anzac Day.
Officers became aware of a small group disrupting the dawn service at the Shrine on 25 April.
On 2 September, police charged a 23-yearold Mooroolbark man on summons with behaving in an offensive manner whilst in a public place namely the Shrine of Remembrance Reserve (Summary Offences Act); offending against decency by conduct and behaviour whilst in the Shrine of Remembrance Reserve (Shrine of Remembrance Act); and taking part
in a disturbance whilst in the Shrine of Remembrance Reserve (Shrine of Remembrance Act).
The Mooroolbark man will appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 17 November.
On the day, a 26-year-old man from Kensington was interviewed and released pending summons in relation to offensive behaviour and was directed to leave the area.
Police continue to investigate the incident and urge anyone with any information or footage that may assist police to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or to make a report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
IN BRIEF
Pricey pine fine
A Lilydale company has been fined $9,880 for dumping Cypress pine mulch and tree roots in a state park southeast of Sale in Gippsland.
EPA Victoria fined TLC Trees Pty Ltd for the unlawful deposit of waste of more than 1,000 litres at a place that was not licensed to accept it.
On 26 June, EPA officers acting on a tipoff found approximately 16 cubic meters of illegally dumped mulch and numerous Cypress root balls in Holey Plains State Park, a 10,000 Ha reserve for native flora and fauna.
They found eight more piles of approximately 48 cubic meters of mulch and other root balls on neighbouring land outside the park.
They found a nearby property had recently undertaken clean up works, removing Cypress pine trees from along a fence. At least 15 root balls were missing from the fence line and there was no evidence of debris from the clearing of the trees. EPA officers were able to trace the work back to the Lilydale company.
EPA has issued a Waste Abatement Notice to TLC Trees Pty Ltd, requiring the company to remove the waste mulch from the multiple locations, take it to a lawful place for disposal, and provide documents to prove the job has been done.
Under the Environment Protection Act 2017 and the Infringements Act 2006, the company has the right to have the infringement notice reviewed or be considered by a court.
Members of the public can report pollution by calling EPA’s 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 or providing details online at epa.vic.gov.au/reportpollution/reporting-pollution Bank scam alert
Police are warning the community about a current bank scam that is specifically targeting elderly residents.
Scammers are calling victims pretending to be from the bank. They are telling people to:
• Leave their bank card in the letterbox.
• Provide their PIN numbers (as a form of verification during the call)
Banks will NEVER ask you to place your bank card in your letterbox or ask for your PIN code. If you or someone you know receives a call like this:
• Hang up immediately.
• Do NOT provide any banking or personal details (like your PIN) with anyone over the phone.
• Contact your bank directly on their official phone number.
• Report the scam to Police or ReportCyber.gov.au Please check in with your elderly family, friends and neighbours to make sure they are aware. Tragic day on the roads
Two drivers lost their lives on Wednesday 3 September in what was a devastating day for the Yarra Ranges.
In Sherbrooke at around 7.30am, emergency services responded to a report that a vehicle had crashed into a tree between Mount Dandenong Tourist Road and Nobles Lane.
The yet-to-be formally identified driver of the vehicle lost their life at the scene. An investigation underway.
At 2.30pm, a collision between a motorcyclist and a car on Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road left the rider dead and four others hospitalised, including two children.
The driver of the car, a 54-year-old Scoresby man, wasn’t injured but his passengers, a woman and two children, were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Police charged a Mooroolbark man in relation to the disturbance that occurred on Anzac Day. (File: 206998)
marches with masked black-clad men.
Neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell was one of three charged over a violent attack at an Indigenous sacred site. (AAP Image/Joel Carrett)
From refugee to supporter
By Dongyun Kwon
Last week, Star Mail reported Yarra Ranges Council had refused the Healesville Rural Australians for Refugees’ (RAR) invitation to join other local governments for the national campaign to support people seeking asylum.
Following last week’s article, Star Mail is introducing the Healesville RAR founder and his unofficial adopted son’s story.
Healesville RAR founder Iain Gillespie and his unofficial adopted son, Zaki Hairari, met each other in 2013 when Mr Gillespie was working for The Age newspaper.
He was working on a series of articles on asylum seekers, and the Asylum Seekers Resource Centre put him in touch with Mr Hairari, a 17-year-old Hazara man.
The past journalist said the 17-year-old had just been released from detention after arriving in Australia by boat when he first spoke to him.
“He had fled from Afghanistan because his father had been murdered by the Taliban. His father was a doctor. And his older brother had also been murdered for daring to seek an education. That was something banned by the Taliban,” Mr Gillespie said.
“The family was getting notes on the door, saying that Zaki was next, so his mum arranged for him to flee overseas in a boat. He didn’t know where he was going. He went through a horrendous journey through Pakistan and India, ended up in Indonesia and got on a boat and headed towards Australia.
“His boat floated for four days when the engine cut out and almost sank. He was incredibly relieved when he was rescued by the Australian Navy. He thought he was being rescued, but he was actually whacked in jail.
“He fled to Australia with the dream of getting an education, because his father, who was a doctor, had drummed into him that he must get an education.”
However, it was hard for refugees like Mr Hairari to access education and work opportu-
nities because of the visa conditions.
Despite the challenging circumstances, Mr Hairari didn’t give up his dream of chasing education.
The print journalist gave him some support to provide him with a way to pursue his dream.
Mr Gillespie said when he spoke to Mr Hairari, the Hazara man spoke only a smattering of English.
“It’s quite hard to understand, but his misery and his disappointment and not being able to get an education showed through, and I did the story,” he said.
“As a journalist, I’ve done my bit. I’ve told everyone about the tragedy, but I didn’t let it go.
“So I rang around private colleges to see if I could find someone who would take Zaki on and provide an education, free of charge. And I did find one called Martin College, a very prestigious group of colleges around Australia, and they put him through two intensive English courses, and then put him through an IT course.”
Mr Hairari’s Australian dream finally kicked off thanks to the help of the journalist.
The committed student, who could finally grab an opportunity, showed outstanding results throughout his new journey.
“And during the course of that, despite the fact he still tried to learn English, he began at the top of the college chain and was offered a scholarship to university, which he couldn’t take because of his visa restrictions,” the past journalist said.
“And then he did another course, and within two years, he was named 2015 New South Wales International Student of the Year, and then shortly afterwards, he was named a City of Sydney International Student Ambassador. He was working while studying. He was also helping refugees.
“Only a couple of years ago, he was named the Human Rights Commission Human Rights Hero. He’s now the Refugee Rights Campaigner for Amnesty International Australia.”
Healesville RAR members also adopted Mr Hairari as an honorary member.
“One of the lovely things, one of the proudest moments of my life, was when he asked me if he could call me dad. And I said, of course, we both embraced. I remember the tears in my eyes. So he’s called me dad, and I’ve called him son ever since,” Mr Gillespie said.
A couple of weeks ago, the dad got a message from his unofficial adopted son, saying that he’d finally become an Australian citizen.
Mr Gillespie said he’d witnessed how hard it had been for his son to reach where he’s currently at.
While studying, working and helping other refugees, Mr Hairari also tried his best to help his family escape from Kabul and the constant danger from the Taliban.
Healesville RAR contributed $1000 towards that cause, and his family finally arrived in Australia in 2023.
After seeing his family at Sydney Airport, Mr Hairari told his Australian dad he would keep fighting for justice, although his family is safe now.
“For 10 long years, arbitrary policy decisions have kept me living in legal limbo and my family living in a violent, war-torn country. Afghanistan is a country that has been at war for more than 40 years. The atrocities are unfathomable, persecution of minorities, targeting of women and unspeakable human rights violations,” the Hazara man said.
“For 10 long years, I have not been able to share treasured moments with my family. I could not rest, I could not sleep knowing they were in danger. I am pleased to share with you, my community, who have shared my highs, lows and fears, that my family have arrived here in Australia.
“I am more determined than ever that all refugee families have to see an end to their pain and suffering. Temporary protection and legal limbo must end. For over 10 years, families have been separated, living in uncertainty.”
“My family’s arrival is a gift I thought I would never see. It has given me hope, hope that compassion and justice will prevail for all refugees. I will not stop fighting until justice is realised.”
“He went through a whole series of visas and all the changing systems for many, many years; he was in the same system as the 8000 asylum seekers are in Australia at the moment, living in permanent fear and being unsure whether they’re going to be sent back to their original country at any time,” he said.
“And he went through all that, and eventually he went to work in Canberra because that was deemed to be one of the country areas that the government qualified as a pathway to permanent residency. He did eventually gain his permanent residency.”
Ever since the formation of a RAR chapter in Healesville in 2016, Healesville RAR have held different events to share the truth about the challenges that refugees face when coming to live in Australia with first-hand experiences and have raised funds to help refugees in emergency situations.
“We also donate money towards the people of Gaza and Ukraine as well now to provide the food, medical help and shelter through dedicated appeals,” the Healesville RAR founder said.
“Over the years, it formed a five-piece band called Woodn’Wire. We’ve just put out a CD. All the money from the sales of that goes towards Halesville RAR and the causes I mentioned.”
Find more information about Woodn’Wire’s new CD, check out Healesville RAR’s Facebook page at facebook.com/HealesvilleRAR Star Mail will introduce one more Healesville RAR member’s story as a refugee and delve into the Chin community, one of the minor ethnic groups in Myanmar, next week.
Iain Gillespie (left) and Zaki Hairari. (Supplied)
Home care packages land
By Callum Ludwig
Some respite for older Australians is incoming as the Australian Government works towards a new Support at Home program for older Australians, with 20,000 home care packages released to relieve delays in providing appropriate care to those who need it.
The decision was made in the wake of a Senate inquiry recently revealing that 87,000 are waiting close to a year to receive packages they have been approved for and over 120,000 more are still waiting to be assessed.
Delays to home care packages are nothing new in the Outer East, with Casey MP Aaron Violi having previously drawn attention to delays multiple of his constituents were facing in Parliament in June 2024.
Mr Violi said this is welcome news for many families in our community, who sacrifice their time to support their aging loved ones whilst waiting years and years for a home care package
“Home care packages are vitally important for our aging community and their families, because they support people to receive the care they need in their home,” he said.
“Tragically, almost 5,000 older Australians died in the past year while waiting for care, which highlights the need for the government to do more to get this right,”
“I have spoken on the importance of supporting our older residents and their families to ensure they get the care that they need and deserve, in the last parliament, I raised local voices and shared local stories around the real challenges our community was and is continuing to face.”
Minister for Health and Ageing Mark Butler and Minister for Aged Care and Seniors Sam Rae announced the release at a press conference on Wednesday 3 September following pressure from a combination of Coalition, Greens and independents to address the backlog prior to the deferred Aged Care Act coming into force from
in the first 6 months of next year, the remaining 43,000 of Labor’s Support at Home packages will be put into the market.”
The Aged Care Act was initially intended to take effect from 1 July this year but was deferred to give service providers in the sector more time to prepare for the overhaul.
Independent Indi MP Dr Helen Haines was one of the advocates for action and said this was a win for older Australians and showed the impact of the crossbench in the interests of the nation.
“I think we have seen a victory today that will bring practical relief to 20,000 people waiting for a home care package,” she said.
“The government had consistently rejected calls from the crossbench and peak bodies to release more packages that would help hold the waitlist steady, I’m pleased that today the government has seen sense.”
1 November.
Mr Butler said there have been good, constructive discussions with Liberal Senator Anne Ruston to ensure they configure the 83,000 home care packages funded in the first 12 months of the upcoming new system to meet the views of the two major parties and advocacy groups.
“I’m pleased to announce we’ve reached a position where we can support the position of Senator Ruston in the Senate when it comes to a vote over the course of today… we will be supporting the position that Senator Ruston has outlined,” he said.
“That will mean there will be 20,000 additional Home Care Packages released between now and the end of October, which is the last time, the last date before the new aged care system comes into effect,”
“From the 1st of November, the start date of the new aged care system, until the 31st of December, there will be an additional 20,000 Support at Home packages put into the system and
“The fact is that the waitlist for home care is getting longer, not shorter, and this is the last thing older persons and their families need –more delays and more uncertainty when they were promised the opposite from this government,” she had said in her speech in Parliament on Monday 1 September.
The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing was contacted for comment.
A number of advocacy bodies for older Australians and the aged care sector have also come out to welcome the announcement.
Ageing Australia CEO Tom Symondson said they congratulate the Government on heading our calls, with so many Australians waiting for care in their own homes.
“We give our sincere thanks to Senator Anne Ruston and Senator David Pocock and all sides of politics for their dedication championing the needs of older Australians,” he said.
“Providers are ready to act immediately and deliver more packages across Australia, as we heard recently, 98 per cent of members tell us they have the capacity and are ready to go,”
“This is the start of the long road to getting people off wait-lists and getting the care they need.”
The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) highlighted the severe risks of leaving older people without appropriate care.
OPAN Director of Policy, Education and Systemic Advocacy Samantha Edmonds said the announcement is a positive step, but more work must be done to protect and safeguard the interest of older people.
“Inadequate in-home care support can push older people into hospital and prematurely into residential aged care, which is unfair and avoidable,” she said.
“Once an older person has been approved for the appropriate level of in-home support, they typically wait another 12 months to receive it, untenable delays such as these put older people at significant risk of adverse outcomes, older people should not have to wait more than 30 days for in home support,”
“These delays have an adverse impact on a person’s dignity and wellbeing, we have a shared responsibility to alleviate this challenge.”
Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care and Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Senate Anne Ruston was a key player in pushing the government to release more home care packages. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas)
L-R: Crossbenchers Kate Chaney MP, Senator Penny Allman-Payne, Helen Haines MP, Allegra Spender MP, Sophie Scamps MP and Senator David Pocock speak following the release of the home care packages. (Supplied)
Youth homelessness crisis
By Mikayla van Loon
Alarming numbers of young people seeking support from homelessness services on their own is a reality being felt close to home.
Despite the shock of data released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) last week, indicating that 13,300 unaccompanied children sought help from specialist homelessness services (SHS) in the past year, Anchor Community Care chief executive officer Heidi Tucker said it presented a true picture of homelessness in this country.
“This is another instance where data is released that shows the shocking reality of what homelessness looks like, and the toll it takes on individuals and communities right across Australia,” she said.
The data also showed that 94 per cent of unaccompanied children were alone when they sought help, while six per cent were in a group of children. More female children, 63 per cent, presented at a service.
Ms Tucker said in the outer eastern suburbs, there was a definite increase in the number of children and young people seeking support.
In 2023, Anchor homelessness services had contact with 142 children (under 18 years of age). Last year, this rose to 174 and in the first six months of 2025 the service has seen 107 young people.
“Children and young people entering homelessness face very complex situations, and require truly holistic support that helps them to be able to escape and recover from these situations,” Ms Tucker said.
“The stats that we know is that roughly half of adults in the homelessness system will have had their first experience of homelessness as a child.
“This tells us that we need an urgent focus on preventative and early intervention approaches to start to actually see a reduction in these numbers.
“Homelessness should be rare, brief, and a
non-recurrent experience.”
Anecdotally and from research, the main drivers of homelessness are family breakdowns, family violence and the housing crisis, each creating a lack of safety.
The AIHW data backs this up, with two in five, or 42 per cent, of unaccompanied children identifying interpersonal relationships as the main reason for seeking SHS assistance.
“What this data really shows is that for children and young people, homelessness is not a choice. They are not choosing homelessness, they are seeking safety, support and wellbeing,” Ms Tucker said.
Using the data as a base, Ms Tucker said it was time for a dedicated and specific youth homelessness strategy to be implemented in Victoria.
She highlighted three points that would be integral to a strategy, those being:
Dedicated youth housing options: models are created currently for adults – so it needs to be age appropriate with an increased level and length of support and be affordable to young people, and location carefully considered - in reach of public transport and other services.
Service integration/joined up approach: coordinated response across government departments, like education, mental health, housing and homelessness, health and disability services, child protection and family services and youth justice.
Place based responses that incorporate all touch points that children and young people engage with to ensure that they don’t fall between the gaps. Need to identify and provide support early so as to stop the descent into homelessness.
Ms Tucker said the integration of services, to be able to identify, engage and respond, would be key to preventing and supporting youth facing homelessness.
This requires schools, sporting clubs, health and mental health and community groups working together or at least being able to recognise when a child is at risk of homelessness, and alert the right services.
“We are really wanting to put efforts into strengthening connections with other services and providers,” Ms Tucker said.
“There are red flags that happen, but if all of the services and community connections that exist in a young person’s life have no way of quickly supporting them, then that’s when they fall through the gaps.”
More concerningly, Ms Tucker said the data showed “there is a proportion that doesn’t even live long enough to transition into adulthood” because of the life-long consequences of being homeless.
“In the last decade, 520 children died while in contact with a homeless service, with suicide being the leading cause of deaths for the 12-17 year olds of this cohort.
“The figures should shock people to their core. We cannot as a society continue to accept these outcomes.”
Right now, Anchor will continue to provide youth-at-risk programs to support young people with “the safety and stability they need to connect with education and careers, while also helping to build or repair their family and social connections – all while providing stable accommodation.”
“This is what gives young people a pathway from homelessness.”
At the same time, Ms Tucker said advocacy for a Youth Housing and Homelessness Strategy for Victoria would be forefront for the organisation, while also seeking funding for specialist children’s practitioners and family therapy programs.
“The statistics provide more ammunition in our fight to raise awareness of homelessness, and the significant impact on children and young people. Victoria needs a strategy and plan in place to stop children and young people entering homelessness,” she said.
Anchor Community Care chief executive officer Heidi Tucker said the statistics should shock everyone. (494773)
Children and young people presenting to homelessness services over the last year reached more that 13,000 across Australia. (Mikayla van Loon: 494773)
Building innovative tech
By Mikayla van Loon
A metal works company in Lilydale has partnered with one of Australia’s leading experts in germicidal ultraviolet disinfection technology to create a simple solution to trolley and shopping basket disinfection.
Rovin Metal Works and UVS Ultra Violet designed a unit that can disinfect up to 10 trolleys or baskets simultaneously, preventing the reproduction of SARS-CoV-2, E. coli, and Salmonella microorganisms, among others.
Robert Gardiner and Vinnie Fraraccio, directors at Rovin, said the idea emerged around five years ago, focusing primarily on the design and manufacturing of shopping trolley vehicles for major supermarkets.
This new project aims to provide supermarkets and shopping centres with a cleaning system effective for 12,000 hours and doesn’t require any form of wipes or sprays.
“We’re hoping to bring it into shopping centres. Every store would have one at the front, and when the trolley staff collect their trolleys, they go through this (unit) and then into the store, and then they’re disinfected and ready to go,” Mr Gardiner said.
“If you had a whole row of shopping trolleys which were disinfected and a row that weren’t disinfected, people would take the disinfected ones every time.
“(The technology) hasn’t really taken off, which is unfortunate, because it’s no mess. You don’t have to use things to wipe it and bits and pieces. It’s the power of these lamps that kills anything on the trolleys.”
UVS Ultra Violet’s Robert Wilson said his father started the company in 1947, and he himself has been working with the technology for 50-odd years.
Germicidal ultraviolet uses UVC, the third sibling in the UV A and B trio.
While UV A and B, in the natural form from sunlight, both reach Earth, UVC doesn’t make it
through the Ozone layer.
UV A and B are both germicidal but react at a much slower rate, whereas UVC is effective in seconds.
Mr Wilson said in all the time he’s worked with the technology, there have been no reports of UVC causing skin cancer because it has a much shorter wavelength of light.
However, it can cause a conjunctivitis-type sensation in the eyes and a reddening of the skin if exposed, and therefore, still comes with safety requirements.
When it comes to UV disinfection technology, Mr Wilson said, “very few people in the world actually know how to correctly design” an effective system, but it is being used well in some cases.
“The biggest market for germicidal ultraviolet is for water, and the second biggest market is for secondary sewerage treatment,” he said.
Melbourne Water’s wastewater treatment plant in Carrum uses thousands of ultraviolet lamps on secondary effluent to disinfect it before it is released.
Mr Wilson said the difference between an alcohol based disinfectant and UVC is that “alcohol will denature the cell wall of the organism, break it down and kill it”, but “germicidal ultraviolet light depends on the microorganism and how much energy it has to absorb to be able to kill it”.
That’s why the first question asked when formulating the right system requires an understanding of the microorganisms needing to be controlled, which will then inform the exposure time and the number of lamps.
“All microorganisms, regardless of whether it’s bacteria, viruses, mould, fungus, they absorb energy most readily at the wavelengths of 260 to 265 nanometers,” Mr Wilson said.
“We manufacture the lamps, and these lamps produce 90 odd per cent of their light energy at a wavelength of 254 nanometers.”
Because the lamps, over the 12,000 hours of operation time, lose around 15 to 20 per cent of their energy, Mr Wilson said that has to be calculated into the effective life of them too.
The lamps are made from fused quartz tubing
because glass would absorb the ultraviolet light entirely.
Rovin’s prototype is an enclosed unit with an entry and exit point for the trolleys or baskets, using eight germicidal ultraviolet lamps, requiring only four seconds of exposure.
“We use what’s called a parabolic reflector, so all the light that is going out the back of the lamp is reflected to the front of the lamp; otherwise, it’d be lost. So you more than double the output when you use a parabolic reflector,” Mr Wilson said.
When ultraviolet light meets at a central point, the energy output becomes cumulative.
Mr Gardiner said that at the moment, Rovin has built only one unit, with the intention of engaging with supermarkets and shopping centres to trial and test the technology themselves.
Should it take off, the company would be the sole manufacturer of such a unit, and it has the potential to expand to airports or other locations, but Mr Gardiner said they would focus on one thing at a time.
Understanding the rates of flu and other viruses spread at supermarkets, as well as seeing people wearing facemasks and using hand sanitiser, Mr Gardiner said he hopes the germicidal ultraviolet light disinfection could provide an extra layer of protection and peace of mind.
“If there’s another superbug, this kills them all at a microscopic level. So that’s what it does. It renders them useless, so they can’t multiply.”
Maroondah
Aqueduct
Bridge closed
From 8pm Sunday 21 September to 10pm Sunday 5 October
Eltham-Yarra Glen Road will be closed between Steels Creek Road and Mount Wise Road in Yarra Glen.
Major detours in place. Plan ahead and allow extra time.
Rovin Metal Works’ Vinnie Fraraccio, Mark Eady, Robert Gardiner and Shane Rode have worked on the design of the germicidal ultraviolet disinfection unit. (Stewart Chambers: 497757)
Director Vinnie Fraraccio pushes a collection of 10 trolleys through the unit which takes only four seconds to disinfect. (497757)
Shelter for all in need
By Callum Ludwig
Volunteers and supporters convened at St Patrick’s Community Centre on Tuesday to celebrate another winter of crucial work from Stable One, particularly the Yarra Valley Winter Shelter program.
From what started as a humble and hopeful effort in 2017 to help the homeless, the Stable One network has spread to three states while continuing to do important work at home base in the Yarra Ranges.
Chief executive Katherine Kirkwood said the event allows them to acknowledge the many lives that have been impacted by Stable One, both locally and further afield.
“We also know that Stable One is just one organisation among many working in the homelessness space, and many other charities right across our local region are doing incredible and valuable work, and each one is needed,” she said.
“The housing crisis that we find ourselves in is far bigger than any one organisation can tackle alone, in line with what is one of our core values of unity, our heart is to continue fostering a culture of collaboration,”
“When we cheer each other on, we celebrate each other’s wins, and we step in to fill the gaps where they need it, when we work together, we can achieve so much more than if we try to by ourselves.”
Board Chair Stacey Aslangul was invited up next to thank the governance team and financial supporters, including the Community Bank of Mt Evelyn, the Ricketson Foundation, the Sisters of Charity Foundation, the Lilydale Uniting Church, Gospel Resource, the St Andrews Foundation as well as the efforts of Andy Moore and fellow local homelessness support services Anchor Community Care and Holy Fools.
Operations Coordinator Sharon Jacob was invited to the stage to share some of the key statistics from the Yarra Valley Winter Shelter this year:
30 guests were approved to stay in the winter shelter and 27 did so, consisting of 14 women and 13 men, as well as two dogs.
The winter shelter was able to account for a total of 430 bed nights, serviced by 112 total active volunteers, including 34 people who did overnight shifts, for over 4000 combined volunteer hours.
After a short interval, Ms Kirkwood returned tothestagetosharemoreabouttheimpactofthe wider network, and said it came about as an effective way to multiply the impact of their winter shelter model without having todirectly facilitate every shelter themselves.
“Over the years, some shelter projects have come and gone, and that’s the nature of the work sometimes, because the shelter does really rely on local resources and circumstances but the growth over the last 12 months has been incredibly exciting,” she said.
“One year ago, we had three active affiliates, plus our own shelter here in the Yarra Valley and since then, five new affiliates have joined the network, which is so exciting,”
“Some ran pilot programs this year, while others are planning to launch infrastructure in 2026, we’re also in active conversations with at least six communities who are going to explore what a shelter looks like so it’s been a really big deal.”
A video filmed by the organisers of the new Bass Coast winter shelter, who piloted a program for the first time this August, was shown and detailed their experiences taking the model to their community.
Training and development board consultant Dr David Wilson spoke next and said they want to be more intentional about their training as they develop more ideas.
“We’ve already been involved, of course, in volunteer training, especially for the winter shelter…we’ve had some venue-specific training which I think is really good this year, the teams that were going to be in one of the venues specifically got there and did some training about what that venue was going to look like and how to work around things and I think that was a terrific addition to the training,” he said.
“Then also we had three online sessions across the winter for ‘alongside’ training which I really enjoy, and I’ve had some very encouraging comments from some people who were there,”
“The other thing that we’ve already been doing is community training…we had a great opportunity this year of talking to police groups…I talked to these eight sergeants from our district about homelessness and our perspective on homelessness, because it’s very important for
them and necessarily so and their comments towards the end of it were around how they really appreciated a different perspective and it helped them to broaden their outlook.”
Stable One operates winter shelters in the Yarra Valley, Bass Coast, Benalla, Bendigo, Frankston, Wang, Parramatta, Toowoomba and Gympie while enquiries have come from communities in Adelaide, Tasmania and Bunbury.
Stable One’s welfare coordinator Heidi Rickard shared the challenges and highlights fo her role, a new one she took on this year.
“Dealing with people experiencing immense anxiety,fragilityandtimesofvolatilityonawhole new level was a definitely challenge, dealing with complex mental health issues and people with huge legal issues like removal of their children, IVOs, court appearances and domestic violence
andjustknowingthatIcan’tactuallydoanything in those cases was really quite overwhelming,” she said.
“My highlights have been building a relationship slowly based on trusted care with one of our guests and watching him step out has helped us on to engage with others, as well as developing skills I didn’t know I had, sometimes I felt like I had to be a detective tracking down NDIS workers in country New South Wales and somehow managing to work with information documents from Centrelink,”
“I can tell you that the experience he had at the shelter was life-changing and we saw his personality and sense of humour and he even smiled and waved as the winter progressed, and when I left him in his new home, he gave me a big hug and thanked me for everything, which
for him was huge.”
To conclude the evening, Ms Kirkwood returned to the stage to soft launch Stable One’s newest initiative, in the wake of the collapse of The Village proposal for Bayswater North, the Fast Haven Collective.
The Fast Haven Collective will be a collection of Stable One supporters with a room, unit, bungalow or any form of accommodation they are willing to offer to help provide different types shelter for the homeless at an affordable and comfortable arrangement for both parties. Stable One will provide expertise and support throughout the process if the new initiative gains traction, and anyone interested in participating or just supporting the Fast Haven Collective can find out more and express interest at stableone. org/fast-haven-collective/.
Stable One chief executive Katherine Kirkwood. (Callum Ludwig: 500996)
Board Chair Stacey Aslangul. (Callum Ludwig: 500996)
L-R: Welfare coordinator Heidi Rickard and training and development consultant Dr David Wilson. (Callum Ludwig: 500996)
‘Djirra Binak’ now open
A striking piece of public artwork was launched with a Smoking Ceremony and education program last week in the Dandenong Ranges.
The ‘Djirra Binak’ (Reed Basket) was the site of a celebration of Country, planting and bushwalk to activate the new dynamic art space up in Kalorama.
Newly installed, the ‘Djirra Binak’ is a dynamic sculptural installation by Murrup Biik, which is a public art practice led by Wurundjeri Elder Aunty Kim Wandin and Chris Joy, along with the Collide Public Art Initiative.
Located in Kalorama along the ngurrak barring trail, the installation has been activated with an education program for children from Mount Dandenong Primary School.
Jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments and Yarra Ranges Council, the ngurrak barring | RidgeWalk is a 39km interconnected arts and culture trail running through the Dandenong Ranges.
On the day, a Smoking Ceremony was performed by Wurundjeri woiwurrung man Darren Wandin, which was then followed with words from the artists.
The children were then invited to plant culturally significant plants around the sculpture and participate in a guided bushwalk on Country.
‘Djirra Binak’ honours the Wurundjeri people as the Traditional Owners of goranwarrabil (the Dandenong Ranges), their woiwurrung language and Ancestral connections.
Aunty Kim said the artwork is a celebration of Country.
“Being on Country and working with natural materials connects me to my land and Ancestors, protecting and preserving intimate knowledge for future generations,” she said.
“Djirra is the reed that lives on Wurundjeri Country, providing sustenance in a broad range of ways.”
“Binak is the basket, the symbol of women providing for family, it’s the vessel for holding,
nurturing and caring.”
At the heart of the installation is a detailed photographic render of one of Aunty Kim’s woven baskets.
Etched in white across several layers of glass, its intricate form hovers above a generous planting of traditional fibre plants employed in Aboriginal weaving practices.
Chris Joy said a pile of unused glass plates on the studio floor gave her the idea to create a three-dimensional hologram of Aunty Kim’s basket.
“It’s a way to honour her weaving practice, matrilineal cultural traditions, and women’s custodianship of lands and waters,” she said.
Upon reaching the central sculptural element and beholding the glass panels front on, the fragmented elements of the image are aligned, and the basket can be perceived in its entirety.
In this way, visitors become active participants in realising the work and, with that, a shared sense of custodianship and care for Country is instilled.
The artists chose the site opposite the intersection of Ridge Road and Falls Rd, Kalorama because people can enjoy being immersed in the bush while also being able to ‘look out and gaze over Country.’
The artists also acknowledged the significance of the site for the local community, as it was heavily impacted by the devastating 2021 storm, with the loss of many old trees.
Aunty Kim said the artwork is a chance to pause and reflect, and connect to the present.
“The sculpture being a reminder of Aboriginal people caring for Country. ‘Heal the people heal the land,’ as Archie Roach sang,” she said.
While the sculpture is now complete and the surrounding fencing removed, the planting is still in the establishment phase.
This planting forms an integral part of the installation, calling for an appreciation and understanding that the experience of the work is
growing and changing.
The ngurrak barring RidgeWalk project has delivered 14 kilometres of new and improved walking tracks, pedestrian crossings, permanent sculptures, and heritage interpretation across the Yarra Ranges.
The walk connects townships, supports the local economy, and celebrates the creative and cultural significance of the area, which has seen some of Australia’s most significant artists draw-
ANOTHER YEAR OF TRIUMPH
With another home and away season behind us, the annual Star Mail Footy Tipping has concluded for another year.
It was again a year of heart and passion being put on the line by our tipsters who gave it their all including reputations on the line each week to be the top dog in the tipping pool .
With many times over the season seeing both good and bad tipping alike and the lead changing several times over the season but in the end, it was down to the final round of the home and away season to see this year our local MP, Cindy McLeish take out the chocolates & take out top prize to beat Greg Spence from Seville Garden Supplies by two tips.
Cindy has courtesy of Ken & Helen Hunt from Monbulk Jewellers won a great $500 voucher which Cindy has plans to donate to one of her local groups that she supports & I am sure this will be well received by the lucky recipient.
We thank you all of our loyal footy tipsters again for a great year & trust all of our readers will also be keenly following the trials & tribulations again in 2026.
ing inspiration from the
The
is now accessible for the public to peruse and enjoy in time for spring.
ever
Dandenong Ranges.
artwork
Aunty Kim Wandin and Chris Joy with Djirra Binak. (Cathy Ronalds).
Students from Mount Dandenong Primary School during the educational program. (Cathy Ronalds).
The public artwork ‘Djirra Binak’ sits up high in the mountain. (Cathy Ronalds).
HUNT Monbullk Jewellers
FIRE RESILIENT COMMUNITIES
Montrose fire aftermath
FIRE RESILIENT COMMUNITIES FIRE RESILIENT COMMUNITIES
By Gabriella Vukman
Forty hectares of jet black columns stand to attention in and around Montrose’ Dr Ken Leversha Reserve.
The canopy in the reserve is eerily quiet apart from the creak of burnt, brittle trunks in the wind.
The fire that tore through Montrose in March earlier this year left the Dr Ken Leversha Reserve black and bare. Now, six months later there are small signs of rejuvenation. New greenery has begun to creep its way back in among the scarred brush.
While it is still too early for heavy handed intervention, locals and the council have banded together to aid in rejuvenating the landscape.
President of the Mount Evelyn Environment Protection and Progress Association (MEEPPA) Clare Worsnop has been keeping an eye out for the return of local wildlife.
“It takes a long while for the bush to regenerate. Our concerns are for the wildlife, especially the pair of Powerful Owls that used to live in the Reserve,” Ms Worsnop said.
Powerful Owls are an endangered species that are threatened by the loss of old trees with large hollows in which they nest.
Ms Worsnop said, “We are monitoring them and checking but don’t believe the pair of owls are breeding this year because the area where they were hanging out mostly, is part of the area that got burnt.”
“We do know they had twins last year and that they survived the fire, but the family of owls have moved.”
The impacts of the fire on the ecosystems and environment in and around the reserve were vast, and while carcasses of dead animals were not found, the loss of habitat bears lasting consequences for the wildlife that once called the reserve home.
Ms Worsnop said, “The ground-dwelling animals like kangaroos, wallabies and wombats have to find new food sources and places to shelter.”
“They can move a little bit further up the mountain but of course, they would be moving into someone else’s territory and animals like humans, are quite territorial, so there’s always that issue to be monitored and checked on.
“We also have to keep an eye on the animals themselves and the birds that may have got burnt and injured but didn’t die immediately. There’s always checking to see which animals are okay, which ones have survived.”
While the MEEPA group often does a lot of bush regeneration work, they have been unable to jump in and begin working on the landscape.
Ms Worsnop said, “We haven’t done a lot of bush work because we haven’t been allowed in so we have been focusing on monitoring the critters and are watching what’s happening and we can see some re-veg work happening.
“People need to remember that when you have a storm or a fire or whatever, the trees and stuff that get burnt or fall down should be left alone. Some of the creatures can then live in that and make new or temporary homes and hollows until something else grows back in.
“We monitor what’s happening along with other groups, to make sure that people aren’t just going in and cleaning it up.”
While Ms Worsnop confirmed that some wildlife has been returning to the reserve, she maintained that it has been a “slow process.”
“The wallabies are still coming back and coming through but they need a bigger area than they had in order to have enough food,” Ms Worsnop said.
“We’ve got a wildlife carer group who are also keeping a very close eye on the animals. We are all most concerned about the owls but we are hoping that next year the environment will be stable enough again for them to come back and breed.
“Caring for the bush and helping it to regenerate naturally as well as working out what is necessary in the longer term with re-vegetation is a long process.”
Working together with the council and other organisations such as Melbourne Water, MEEPA focuses on bush regeneration and the monitoring of wildlife and is scheduled to meet with the council in the upcoming months to discuss further regeneration work at the Dr Ken Leversha Reserve.
• https://youtu.be/f7XbJ05EMC0
Zoologist and Chief Executive Officer of the Bungalook Creek Wildlife Shelter Dr Emma Cash has also been keeping an eye on the Reserve.
“Straight after the fire there was a lot more diurnal activity, so daytime activity from animals that are usually nocturnal,” Dr Cash said.
“A lot of our possum and glider species were seen out during the daylight hours, simply just trying to find somewhere safe to sleep for the day. Most of those animals lived in the reserve.”
Due to the fact that the fire began at night, many of the reserve’s nocturnal inhabitants were awake and able to escape.
Dr Cash said, “We’re probably lucky, not so much for the humans, but for the animals in the fact that the fires took off during the night.”
“The wildlife were hopefully out and about and not in the fire zone.
“Their problem now is finding safe places to sleep, so people might be seeing a little bit more activity from species around their homes. A lot of the hollows that they would have lived in can take up to 100 years to form, and so we don’t have habitats yet.”
According to Dr Cash, locals can help out the local wildlife in a series of ways.
“People that live around the area can make their gardens as wildlife friendly as possible,” Dr Cash said.
“This involves planting native trees and shrubs and ground covers so that our wildlife have something safe to eat, but also installing nesting boxes in appropriate locations and keeping cats indoors.”
The Bungalook Creek Wildlife Shelter was founded in Montrose 18 years ago and cares for and rehabilitates Australian native wildlife.
For more information on MEEPA and or to donate to the Bungalook Creek Wildlife Shelter, visit the following website and Facebook pages respectively.
MEEPA: meeppa.org.au
Bungalook Creek Wildlife Shelter: facebook. com/bungalookcreekwildlifeshelter/
The Dr Ken Leversha Reserve was left blackened by fire, with much of the habitat and food sources burned. (Frank Tsai - Boronia CFA)
View of the Reserve from Burke’s Lookout Mount Dandenong. (Stewart Chambers: 466806)
(Frank Tsai - Boronia CFA)
Tech to track
From a desk job to mountain biking, a Yarra Ranges resident has made a bold career move that has given him a life in a job he loves.
For Ferny Creek local Damien Taulien, stepping away from an established career in IT took a significant leap of faith. However, being stuck indoors during the pandemic made him reevaluate whether there was more to life than his nineto-five desk job.
“I could have stayed in something safe but unfulfilling, counting down the days until retirement, but I wanted more,” said Mr Taulien.
As a working parent responsible for supporting his family, quitting his job and giving up a steady pay cheque was a bold move for Damien.
But it turned out to be the right one.
Shortly after leaving, a friend invited him to keep the wheels rolling in a program teaching primary school-aged children to ride bikes.
“I found a job I loved, and I didn’t even know what I was looking for,” said Mr Taulien.
With his newfound passion for teaching kids to ride, Damien asked around for the next steps to gain qualifications in outdoor education and leadership. Friends suggested he enrol in Box Hill Institute’s (BHI) Certificate IV in Outdoor Leadership at the
Lilydale campus, the only TAFE in Victoria that teaches mountain biking.
This course is part of Victoria’s Free TAFE initiative, aimed at addressing critical skills gaps.
The outdoor recreation sector is estimated to generate $11 billion annually for Victoria’s economy.
Activities like mountain bike riding are increasing in popularity in the Yarra Ranges, creating jobs for people with outdoor leadership skills.
In fact, the new Warburton Bike Park, which recently opened its first section, is projected to create around 150 jobs and inject over $31 million annually into the local Yarra Valley economy by 2031.
As a mature-aged student, Damien feels returning to study has opened his mind to a new world of possibilities.
“I feel reinvigorated. I’m always looking for excuses to get outdoors -at last, I’m in the right place,” said Mr Taulien.
To help others like Damien discover their path, BHI is hosting a free Careers Expo at Box Hill Town Hall on Tuesday, 7 October from 4-7pm.
To learn more, visit their website boxhill.edu. au/events/bhi-careers-expo/
Tireless advocate
By Mikayla van Loon
Ringwood Prostate Cancer Support Group
secretary Peter Stanley has been awarded and recognised for his contribution to the community by raising awareness of Australia’s most commonly diagnosed cancer.
On Monday 1 September, Mr Stanley received an award at the Ringwood Electorate Victoria Day Awards Ceremony, hosted by MPs Nick McGowan and Nicole Werner.
Mr Stanley was noted as a “driving force” for the Support Group, both as secretary and
as an advocate for the cause.
Support Group president Andrew Blackwell nominated Mr Stanley for the honour, stating that he has “tirelessly represented” the group on many occasions, including at community events and delivering presentations.
“Thanks to his dedication, the Support Group has grown into one of the leading groups of its kind in the country,” he said in the citation.
“Peter is not only a brilliant secretary but also an outstanding advocate, whose efforts have made a lasting difference to many lives.”
Support Group secretary Peter Stanley, MP Nick McGowan and Support Group president Andrew Blackwell. (Supplied)
Support Group secretary Peter Stanley receiving his award from MP Nick McGowan on Monday 1 September.
Box Hill Institute’s Outdoor Leadership students prepare to hit the trail in the Yarra Ranges. (Supplied)
Donna’s year of firsts
By Mikayla van Loon
After being appointed Mont De Lancey’s first artist-in-residence in March, Wandin’s Donna Legg will host her first solo exhibition in September.
“It is a bit daunting. I’ve been painting away,” she said.
“I’ve never done this before. It’s another first. I have probably six to eight paintings that’ll be new, other than what’s in the gallery now, and I’ll change it around a little bit, just so people who have been here can see new works.”
The exhibition, titled Creating Joy, will open on Saturday 20 September and be on show until Sunday 28 September.
“I called it Creating Joy, because that’s how I feel when I do my art. I’ve had quite a few people say how much they’ve enjoyed seeing my art and what joy it’s brought them. I think it has brought joy to so many people,” Ms Legg said.
The stories of people finding the right position in their home for her artworks and the personal connections people have formed with certain pieces, Ms Legg said, also inspired the name of the exhibition.
“I had a lady who told me a story about her mum who passed away, and she wanted to buy one of my paintings because it reminded her of her mum.
“Her words were, ‘This piece has brought me so much joy’.”
The exhibition will feature some of Ms Legg’s most notable pieces, being wildlife and botanicals, but will also showcase different styles from her regular work.
She’s keeping that under wraps until the exhibition opens, however.
In October, Ms Legg will also exhibit her work as part of a group exhibition, alongside a number of other local artists.
Mont De Lancey is located at 71 Wellington Road, Wandin North and is open Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 4pm.
Wilde’s witty work a must see at the theatre
By Mikayla van Loon
With a witty script that is undeniably and wonderfully Oscar Wilde, the Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company takes on his highly regarded The Importance of Being Earnest for its fourth season.
It’s a play with a sub-title that states it’s ‘a Trivial Comedy for Serious People’ - nothing could be more apt for the farcical commentary of late-1800s high society.
Following the lives of two young men, Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff, who both adopt the fictional name Ernest, it leads them to all sorts of trouble.
Lead actor Joshua Mitchell, who has the pleasure of bringing Algernon to life, said it’s been “an absolute blast” to discover his character and deliver some of the best lines in the script.
“Working alongside such a talented cast and crew is always a treat, but when we have the pleasure of playing with such a widely beloved work like The Importance of Being Earnest, it’s really something quite special,” he said.
“Wilde’s writing is so sharp and witty that once you get into the rhythm and pace of it, the lines almost do the work for you.”
Joshua described Algernon as the “1800s version of Joey Tribiani from Friends” because of his funny and charming personality, who “never takes anything too seriously… except when it comes to his food”.
“He’s just so much fun to play. Algernon’s cheeky, he’s playful, and he loves poking fun and pushing the occasional button!
“It feels like he’s almost aware that the game is afoot and he loves playing it every bit as much as the next person!”
Algernon and his focus on food, Joshua said, gives him some of the greatest one-liners to deliver, among a script of unforgettable lines.
Some of his personal favourites include:
“Well, I can’t eat muffins in an agitated manner. The butter would probably get on my cuffs. One should always eat muffins quite calmly. It is the only way to eat them.”
“You can’t possibly ask me to go…..without having some dinner first. It’s absurd! I never go
without dinner, nobody ever does….except for vegetarians and people like that.”
But despite his fixation on good food, Joshua said it has been a joy so far to explore a character that is so unapologetically themselves.
“I have loved playing a character that lives unapologetically in pursuit of their own happiness,” he said.
“Algernon chases what he wants and takes genuine delight in the little things that make him happy, whether it’s food, fun, or romance! If he
were alive today, I honestly think he’d be all over gratitude journals and self-care trends…. he’s basically a Victorian era wellness influencer.”
And while 1800s high society might seem far beyond today’s experiences, Joshua said “Wilde’s satire really is timeless”.
“It translates almost too easily into today’s society. In the 1800s it was about country estates and proper manners, now it’s Instagram stories and Spotify wrapped playlists - people curating the perfect image of success.
“When you consider that the wealth gap is as wider than it’s ever been, Wilde’s digs at privilege and excess feel that little bit sharper.
“He shows us how ridiculous people can be when they care more about appearances than anything else. But I think that’s why audiences still connect…. we laugh at the Victorians, but we acknowledge that we are laughing at ourselves too.”
Lilydale’s interpretation of the play has been directed by the one and only Katie-Jane Amey for its second appearance at the theatre in 21 years. With a “generous, kind, funny and talented group” bringing this performance to the stage, Joshua said he hopes the joy they’ve experienced as cast and crew can flow to the audiences as well.
“I think people will enjoy the laughter most of all. Wilde’s humour is so quick and clever, and it’s a joy to share that with an audience. But beyond the famous lines, what really makes it special is how relatable it still feels,” he said.
The Importance of Being Earnest is on show from 11 - 27 September at the Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre. Visit the website to book tickets, lilydaleatc.com or call 9735 1777.
Mont De Lancey artist-in-residence Donna Legg will host her first solo exhibition titled Creating Joy. (Mikayla van Loon: 500844)
Joshua Mitchell plays the cheeky and unapologetically himself Algernon Moncrieff. (Alexandra CarterWanderling Photography)
The Importance of Being Earnest is Oscar Wilde’s farcical commentary of high society. (Alexandra Carter - Wanderling Photography)
A safe home for 20 years
By Tanya Steele
A Knox family were acknowledged for years of work as foster carers last week in a special ceremony attended by Member for Aston, MP Mary Doyle.
Local Boronia foster carers, Amanda and Dean Collins, have been recognised for their work in supporting vulnerable children in the foster care system, winning the Tilly Aston Carer of the Year Award.
For 20 years, the Collins’ home has been a safe and supportive home for many of the community’s most vulnerable children and young people.
“They’re born into this situation, and they have it really tough, and I think that gave me a real soft spot,” said foster carer Amanda Collins.
Amanda and Dean were recognised for their capacity to go above and beyond.
At 55, Amanda said her husband Dean and her own four biological children are a huge support and essential to her, still caring after this long.
“I have a husband who’s prepared to support me in my calling,” she said.
Amanda said that fostering has had a positive impact on her family.
“As challenging as it has been over the years for my biological children, I believe it’s made my now adult children much more resilient and better human beings as a whole,” she said.
“They understand that sh*t happens in the world, and not everybody gets a good start – they just are very they’re caring and kind and good with children, and they’ll make great fathers.”
The awards, presented by Member for Aston, Mary Doyle MP, recognise those who have exhibited unparalleled dedication, exceptional leadership, and significant impact in their chosen field or community.
“It’s bought a lot of joy, it has bought tough times, frustrating times, difficult times, but adversity can add strength and resilience to your life as well. It’s not always a negative thing,” said Amanda.
Anchor CEO, Heidi Tucker said that the Collins are very deserving of the award win, saying that their home is a lifeline for vulnerable children and young people in the foster care system.
“The Collins’ work is a masterclass in creating a loving, safe and stable home,” she said.
When asked what drew her into becoming a carer, Amanda said she grew up listening to her own mother’s stories from her childhood.
“She had a very troubled childhood, and was in and out of orphanages and cared for by nuns at times,” she said.
“Listening to her stories of hardship and listening to how that’s affected her and her siblings has made me very empathetic to children who don’t have a say in their situation.”
She and her husband, Dean, began the process of becoming foster parents in 2005, already a big household with four kids of their own, with around one year of training and checks required to become accredited.
“You’ve got a say in what you are prepared to take on,” Amanda said.
The family have been busy ever since, with no day the same and Amanda said you can still work and have a full life whilst being a foster parent.
From short-term emergency fosters to longer-term stays with the family, Amanda said she has looked after over close to 100 children over the years.
Some children have been in and out of the Collins household for a long time, and the kids are always welcomed straight back, but not without challenges.
“We have one child who went home ten times in seven years, which was very, very difficult, extremely difficult,” said Amanda.
“He always came back to us,” she said.
“We’d have to start again with him and get him back into a routine and teach him things that unteaching.”
Ms Tucker said that so much of what foster carers do goes unseen and unrewarded, so it is brilliant to see Amanda and Dean recognised with this award win.
“They have created a home of true care and stability for so many children and young
people in the foster care system,” she said.
As to becoming a foster carer, from a practical standpoint, you need training and a requirement for a bedroom dedicated to the child and Amanda said it’s more flexible than most people would think.
“So people tend to think I work, I’m too old, or I’m too busy, or I’ve got my biological children, I’ll wait till they’re grown, all those things don’t mean you can’t foster,” she said.
“You can foster when you’re single. You can foster as a couple – there are no limits to who can what you can provide and do.”
The Collins’ work is a great example of how people can make a difference as foster carers, at a time of increased need for people to step up and help.
“If you can’t take on a child, perhaps you could offer support or meals to someone you know who is a carer,” said Amanda.
Anchor supports people to begin their journey into becoming Foster Carers, offering flexible and dedicated staff who can help with all foster care enquiries.
Amanda still has friends she went through training with and the network provides the family with an essential support system, with the group supporting each other daily.
“I have the best foster care friends that have become lifelong friends,” said Amanda.
“They understand the system you’re working with and the frustrations behind it, and my friendships with them have been a huge bonus – I love them so much, I’m very lucky,” she said.
Self-care for a foster carer is tough, and Amanda said Victoria needs more carers, even for simple respite.
“Carers get burnt out,” she said.
Some children have come to the Collins’ house with added issues to contend with, from injuries acquired from abuse to developmental disabilities, which means more intensive care is required.
“I’ve picked up a newborn from the hospital, withdrawing from drugs with a fractured skull and a fractured leg, right through to, you know, a 16-year-old that is self-harming,” said Amanda.
“I’ve had every type of child I can think of,” she said.
Amanda said she worries for the future of orphans and that the number of people who
are willing to foster is dwindling.
“The needs are becoming higher, there’s a lot more mental health, there’s a lot more drugs, and there’s a lot more domestic violence and things,” she said.
“At the end of the day, what is life about?
You can’t take money with you, can’t take your car with you. You’re not gonna be able to take your house with you, but what you can take with you is your emotions and
your feelings and what you’ve given to this world.”
“If everyone made a difference in just one child’s life, the world would be a better place.”
The Collins family at their butcher and delicatessen business have been foster caring for 20 years in the outer east. (Supplied).
L-R: Grace, Anchor Case Manager; Amanda Collins; Mary Doyle MP at the Awards Ceremony. (Anchor).
Time for spring cleaning
By Maria Millers
You can smell Spring Spring in Victoria means changeable weather, pollen-heavy air filled with fragrances, the mix of native and imported blooms, from the gold of indigenous wattle against the dark native bush to the fields of exotic golden daffodils, fluttering and dancing in the breeze, to blossoming fruit trees.
Two Springs
In Victoria, spring arrives sideways — four seasons in one day, a burst of wattle gold against grey drizzle, a sudden hailstorm pelting tulips before the sun returns to polish the leaves of plane trees along St Kilda Road. Magpies guard their nests, the air is thick with pollen and football chants, and hay fever sneezes echo louder than church bells.
Author: Year 8 student, Ameera A (Macquarie Fields High School)
It’s also a season of growth with native wildlife becoming more active—birds are nesting and returning to our backyards, reptiles are emerging from winter torpour, the resident rabbits are emerging to nibble on new grass.
All harbingers of the warm weather that is not too far away.
Longer daylight hours increase exposure to natural light, which regulates our circadian rhythm. This helps improve sleep quality, stabilises mood and stimulates the brain to produce more serotonin (the feel-good neurotransmitter), boosting energy, optimism, and sociability.
Culturally, spring is tied to ideas of rebirth, new
WOORILLA WORDS
beginnings, and fresh starts.
This often translates into motivation to declutter, change habits, or start new projects.
An opportunity to reset life habits.
Psychologists sometimes call the boost people feel in spring the springtime effect: higher energy, greater optimism, and increased drive to engage with life.
It’s also the time when the urge to spring clean our homes is strong: to throw out accumulated clutter, open the windows, pull the winter bedding off beds, wash down smoky walls and mouldy bathrooms and let fresh spring air circulate through the house.
Could this not also be the time to extend the spring cleaning to our minds.
While we can’t just wipe out thoughts like cleaning the oven, we can use spring to work towards clearing mental clutter by letting go of mental junk like guilt, comparison and other negative feelings to make space for more balanced constructive thinking.
If social media make you feel bad about yourself, let it go.
Similarly the constant overload of news or information. There has been so much unsettling news constantly impacting on us.
Judith Wright often connected the natural world with emotional renewal.
In the following poem, she reflected on the hard times experienced during WW2 and how spring was a counterpoint to destruction and loss of life. Now is the springing-time of the world, the waking, the growing, the green; after the darkness, after the war, life stirs in the quickened vein.
From Spring After War
In the same spirit, Oodgeroo Noonucal’s poetry often touches on themes of personal resilience, struggle, and renewal, particularly from the perspective of her Indigenous heritage.
In The Dawn is at Hand, she speaks of hope and the strength to rise again.
The timeless beauty of the earth awakes, with each new leaf and each bird song; our hearts are lifted, and hope is born again.
The idea of mental renewal by connecting with nature runs strongly through much of her poetry.
From going into the bush or woods, to planting some herbs or flowers to picking up a bunch of daffodils from a roadside stall all proof of our need for mental renewal by finding peace and perspective in connecting with nature.
So too in the poetry of Wendell Berry
When despair for the world grows in me and I wake in the night at the least sound in fear of what my life and my children’s lives may be,
I go and lie down where the wood drake
rests in his beauty on the water, and the great heron feeds.
Excerpt: The Peace of Wild Things by Wendell Berry
Berry expresses the idea of letting go of negative thoughts by connecting with the calmness and simplicity of nature, an act that metaphorically ‘cleanses’ the mind.
These poets share an ongoing dialogue about mental and emotional cleansing, whether that’s through reconnecting with nature, working through trauma and embracing personal renewal.
Their works offer a rich and diverse perspective on the process of ‘spring cleaning’ the mind and offers hope, healing, and perspective.
Just like a clean home makes us feel lighter and more in control, a ‘cleaner’ mind leads to better emotional resilience, more clarity and focus.
A more hopeful, empowered outlook.
However, we should perhaps also accept that one of the reasons for unhappiness is that our culture doesn’t teach us to embrace all emotions and experiences, the good and the bad, like guests that come and go.
Today confronting news reports often come with a warning that the content may distress or offend some viewers or listeners.
And it’s quite common to hear people admit that they have made a deliberate choice to disengage from anything that disturbs.
Woorilla Poetry Prize is now accepting entries: woorilla.org.au
A response for Palestine by a refugee activist
By Prue Licht
I read the article in last week’s Star Mail with dismay. Mr Goodman ‘a Jewish man’ has made some statements I believe are extremely questionable, biased and in some cases factually untrue. In this article I seek to educate, this is necessarily a brief historical response to the article.
I am a pro-Palestine activist and have been studying the situation in the Middle East for many years. In July 2023 I visited Palestine, staying in East Jerusalem and the Old City of Jerusalem. I visited the Palestinian cities of Ramallah, Hebron and BethlehemaswellasTelAvivandotherplacesinIsrael. I spoke to both Palestinians and Jews, I visited a refugee camp in Bethlehem and a military court, amongstotherplacesofpoliticalandsocialinterest.
Some facts that cannot be disputed are those around the history of the last 77 years since the creation of Israel under the auspices of the United Nationsin1947.In1948Israeliparamilitarygroups, (they later became the IDF) attacked more than 500 villages and killed about 15,000 Palestinians. These villages were destroyed and more than 750,000 people were displaced, as recognised by Amnesty International. People were forced to walk away from their homes and communities of hun-
dredsofyears.Theybecamerefugees,someintheir own land, in other parts of Palestine. There are several camps in Gaza, now rubble, some found refuge in the many camps in Jordan, Lebanon and other parts of the Middle East. At that time 56 per cent of the land became Israel. The rest was designated Palestine in two areas, The West Bank, then administered by Jordan and Gaza administered by Egypt. Jerusalem was divided 50/50. At that time there were twice as many Palestinians as there were Jews, though they were allocated less than half the land. The areas that were emptied of their Arab populations at that time are now home to Israeli Jews, many from other countries in the world, with limited or no familial or historical links to the area. There have been ongoing hostilities between Israel and various Palestinian factions. In 1967 the Six Day war between Israel, Egypt, Syria and Jordan, ended with Israel occupying both the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Since that time there has been a steady increase in Jewish migration to Israelfromotherpartsoftheworldandsettlements, most but not all of them illegal under international law, have been built on stolen Palestinian land in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Hostilities usually from armed settlers, supported by the IDF, towards Palestinian civilians have increased expo-
nentially since October ‘23.
The population of Palestine up until the 1930s wasapproximately86percentPalestinian,nineper cent Christian and three per cent Jewish, an 1878 Census indicated. It had been ruled under the Ottoman Empire for 400 years until 1917, when it was replacedbyaBritishmilitaryoccupationmandated by the League of Nations. The UN’s The Question of Palestine study estimated the Jewish population in the 1920s rose from 10 per cent to 17 per cent. This rose again after World War II. Maps of the time clearly record Palestine, contrary to Mr Goodman’s assertion. It was a culturally and socially vibrant country with the disparate ethnic groups living side by side, for the most part harmoniously. Zionist Jewish groups, that do not represent all Jewish people, believe that they are the only people entitled to live in the land between the Mediterranean sea and the Jordan river. The Zionist view of Palestine is that it is the historic and ancestral homeland of theJewishpeoplebasedontheOldTestament.The Balfour declaration in 1917 talked about a ‘national Home for Jewish people in Palestine’, it also said ‘it beingclearlyunderstoodthatnothingshallbedone which may prejudice the civil and religious’ rights of existing non-Jewish communities’.
Palestine has for thousands of years been the homeofArabPalestinianswithJewsandChristians being a minority part of the population. Mr Goodman’s assertion that a two-state solution has been on the table ‘throughout history’ is incorrect. It was first suggested by the British Peel commission in 1937 and the partition in 1948 created areas that were supposedly Palestinian. The Oslo Accords of the 1990s were an attempt to end the resulting conflict. Those negotiations with the involvement of Norway and America were ultimately unsuccessful. Hamas is described as a terrorist organisation, yet they were voted the majority party in the last election in Gaza in 2006. We must not forget that themajorityofthetwomillionresidentsofGazaare unable to leave, Israel controls all entries and exits, thus controlling movement of the population and enabling the control of food into The Strip causing aplannedfamineandgenocide. Weshouldputthe horrific events of 7 October 2023 into the context of all of the past history and the ongoing trauma and destruction wreaked by the Israeli occupation. The disproportionate response of Israel’s government has led to hundreds of thousands of Palestinians being killed in Gaza by Israeli bombing and troops, most of them unrecorded, buried under the rubble of their homes, schools, universities and hospitals.
Foster carers vital
At Animal Aid, we believe every animal deserves a second chance - and sometimes, all it takes is a couch to curl up on and a human to believe in them.
That’s where our foster carers come in.
Fostering isn’t just about offering a roof.
It’s about creating a safe space where an animal can catch their breath, learn to trust again, and feel what it’s like to be loved.
Whether it’s a tiny kitten needing time to grow, a dog recovering from surgery, or a shy soul overwhelmed by shelter life, foster homes help them find their paws.
aid Animal
Mark Menze Animal Aid CEO
Our shelter teams do incredible work, but there’s nothing quite like the magic that happens in a home.
Verdict: Worst film of the year
War of
Put simply, The War of The Worlds is one of the worst films I’ve ever seen.
Department of Homeland Security officer Will Radford (Ice Cube) must protect his children using his computer during an alien invasion.
Nearly unrecognisable from H.G. Wells’ source novel, The War of The Worlds somehow has a breakneck pace despite being painfully dull.
The film is presented entirely through computer desktops, webcams and shaky phone footage; this disorienting visual soup renders the alien invasion distant and uninvolving (with the bursts of action almost impossible to make out), and undermines almost any suspense the film attempts.
The War of The Worlds is full of clunky, contrived dialogue, bland characters, subpar effects and blatant Amazon product placement.
So much of the run-time is Cube’s grumpy face filling the frame, and his performance is flat and stilted; moreover, Will is a rude, intrusive jerk.
The film is almost childish in how it treats data like magic (The line ‘DNA is a lot like computer code’ is so stupid), and the Disruptor hacker and Goliath surveillance system are nebulous background threats in a film of nothing but background.
The War of The Worlds has a highly malleable narrative: the original 1898 novel is set in contemporary Victorian London, but the 1953 and 2005 films are both set in America, with the latter being heavily influenced by 9/11.
My favourite adaptation is Jeff Wayne’s magnificent 1978 rock opera concept album.
With actors interacting through Zoom windows and rarely ever in the same room, this adaptation feels like a relic of the socially-distanced lockdown days (indeed, production began all the way back in 2020).
Streaming exclusively on Amazon Prime Video, The War of The Worlds is a uniquely incompetent movie that deserves all the scorn it’s received and more.
The calm. The quiet. The one-on-one time. Foster care allows animals to heal faster, show their true personalities, and be better prepared
CARTOON
for adoption.
Right now, we need more of these special humans. As the cost of living rises, more animals are finding their way to our doors, and our shelters are stretched.
If you’ve got a spare room, a quiet corner, or even just the heart for it, you could help an animal take their first step toward a better life.
We’ll sort the food, vet care and support, you just bring your love, your kindness, and the willingness to make a difference.
Because to that one animal, your home isn’t temporary, it’s the start of everything.
To learn more about becoming a foster carer please visit, animalaid.org.au/foster-care
Fun entertainments
Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre
The Importances of Being Earnest
This version of The Importance of Being Ernest, as envisioned by the production team, has an unique new and fresh look.
The gorgeous costumes, the striking set and of course the biting Wild e wit and observations of the Victorian mores and social conventions.
The Importance of Being Ernest was the last play penned by Oscar Wilde; completed before being jailed for ‘gross indecency’ in 1895.
He was imprisoned in a number of jails but spent most of his two year sentence with hard labour at Reading Gaol-walking on a treadmill for six hours a day, or speaking to another soul then confined to his cell in solitary confinement.
He was deprived of books, conversations and writing materials.
A torture for a creative brain such as his.
The Importance of Being Ernest is a classic piece in every way from the clever wordplay and Victorian demeanour through to the lavish costumes.
• Season: 11 – 27 September.
Karralyka Ringwood Ballet
This is an annual event that showcases all the students in selections of their class work and acknowledgestheirachievementsinexaminationandassessments.
The School will also be announcing the scholarship and Awards during the evening.
• Season: Saturday 6 September at 5pm.
Donvale Christian College – Alice in Wonderland Jnr.
Fall down a rabbit hole with Alice as she navigates the curious world of Wonderland on her journey of selfdiscovery.
Along her adventure, Alice encounters the evertardy Whie Rabbit, the grinning Cheshire Cat, a cool Caterpillar, the wacky Mad Hatter, a temperamental Queen, and many more beloved Wonderland characters in this charming, updated retelling of the classic Lewis Carroll stories.
Adaptedespeciallyforyoungperformers,themu-
Kemp’s curtain call
sical includes famous songs from the Disney cartoon such as I’m Late.
The Unbirthday Song and Painting the Roses Rd, in addition to music from the 2010 Tim Burtin liveaction film.
• Season: 9-10 September at 7pm. 11 September at 12 pm, 12 September at 7pm.
Fairfax Theatre – Melbourne’s Art Centre
The Lark
Your correspondent was invited to the opening night of the World Premiere of The Lark starring Noni Hazelhurst as a one woman show.
The Lark is a pub that Rose Grey was born in and now she is trying to leave her past behind.
The place has become what defines but also limits her.
Rose wants to be released. Perhaps if she tells the story of her life in The Lark, if she tells it well enough, it might be for the last time.
She will be free of her past, and she will e free of herself.
The set was simple but very effective. It consisted of an old bar, four stools in front of same with one the floor with a broken leg.
A large mirror to the rear with glass shelves some broken thus giving the feeling of an old run down pub.
Rose, played by Noni Hazelhurst, was excellent.
She described her Dad making references all evening, talking about her past life with her mother leaving the family and Rose hardly knowing her.
She further talks about her life in different jobs, her first sexual experiences and coming back to the pub which her Dad left her.
A thriller survivalist PASSION FOR PROSE
WITH CHRISTINE SUN
Book review of The Chilling by Riley James.
Apparently there is such a thing called “Research Station Noir”.
According to Paul French via CrimeReads, this is a major sub-genre of both Arctic and Antarctic crime writing that features “research stations, invariably with their communication down and cut off”.
Indeed, with approximately 5000 people living and working in the frozen continent during the summer months and only about 1000 people in winter, primarily at research stations, it makes sense that any crime in Antarctica is worth writing about.
The most interesting part of a research station mystery is the people, which include not just scientists and researchers but also technicians and support staff of diverse backgrounds, skills and competencies.
The group dynamics is the focus, which can change dramatically in extraordinary circumstances. (That is, if freezing cold and extreme isolation is not extraordinary enough.)
And this is what Australian author Riley James intends to explore in her debut novel The Chilling, which is set in the fictional McPherson Station in East Antarctica.
The protagonist, Kit, is a forensic dentist helping to monitor the health of wild seals.
She also assists the station’s medical practitioner, Dustin, with various duties.
On their way to the station, Kit and her fellow scientists receive a distress call from a nearby ship.
They subsequently find the ship on fire and its crew missing, apart from a lone survivor named Nick, who suffers head injuries and cannot remember who he is or what has happened.
Kit becomes increasingly suspicious about Nick’s amnesia.
Meanwhile, with the winter darkness and endless blizzards setting in, life on the station takes a drastic turn, starting with Dustin’s death in mysterious circumstances. Kit’s colleagues are acting strangely, her best friend has gone missing, and the surviving crew of the aforementioned ship – if any – urgently need rescue.
As the plot thickens, we cannot help but wonder whether Kit is a reliable character.
Considering her mother’s warning about good-looking men at the start of the story, some of Kit’s decisions about Nick seem particularly absurd.
Is she suffering from paranoia and anxiety due to prolonged isolation?
What, exactly, are the “whisperings” in her head?
There is a noticeable lack of in-depth character development throughout the book. Instead, the author relies on the activities and actions of various major characters, as well as their reflections on those events around them, to keep the plot moving.
Not only does this help to create a fastpaced story, but some readers may find it frustratingly challenging to find clues that may help them solve the story’s many mysteries.
As a result, the story is full of twists and turns, possibilities and surprises that keep readers turning the pages.
Thanks to the author’s meticulous research and vivid description of the White Continent, this is an atmospheric thriller full of tension and suspense, and the “trust no one” feeling and the sense of isolation bordering claustrophobia is almost tangible.
Highly recommended.
The
The Worlds Starring Ice Cube M 2/5
‘BRAY LODGE GUEST HOUSE’ CIRCA 1930
HOMESTEAD
FLAT ACREAGE. PRIVATE, YET CENTRAL! ‘BRAY
EXTENSIVELY refurbished with a private yet central location, this property offers a golden opportunity to acquire an iconic and prime landholding in Olinda. Walking distance to the charm and allure of Mt Dandenong village yet emanating a distinct feeling of timeless country ambience. Just over 2 lush acres of predominately flat grounds dotted with European classics such as pines, elms, fir, oak, beech and pine trees this is a lifestyle or investment opportunity of grand proportions that will bring joy to future generations.
Formerly known as “Bray Lodge Guest House” the property offers beautiful grounds of over 8645m2 (2.13 Acres) that are home to an original homestead circa 1930’s including the perfectly flat lawn at the rear that was once a tennis court. The property also houses a double roller door garage, privacy fencing and abundant off-street parking for multiple vehicles.
Over the last 3 years the owners have been busy.
A list of the works undertaken include: Restumping the whole property and any joists requiring replacement were done.
• New hot water.
New large gas ducted heating system. The two new split systems are only 18 months old installed after the renovation for air con as well as heating. They are 10Kw each. All the cosmetics, lights, kitchen, oven range hood etc and the tiling
• The entire entrance veranda, electrical and lights have been completely replaced and has concrete stumps under the verandah floor now and you will see that whole section of roof is also brand new.
• Most of the core electrical wiring through the roof was replaced and quite a bit throughout the house as well. All the electrical and gas compliance testing has been done as the property was tenanted and required this. The water piping to the house underground from the meter has been replaced and nearly all the water pipes in the house were also replaced as they were original Galvanised pipes.
• A good portion of the outside wall cladding and all the base boards have been replaced Any portions of the plaster (even some areas that look “old” are actually new and were replaced in the renovation).
• All the aged insulation in the roof was removed by suction, cleaned out and all new insulation installed as part of the renovation. The owners have decided to hand the baton on, so here is your opportunity to make this property what you will, a large home, an accommodation business or whatever you have in mind (Subject to council approval of course!).
The hard work in infrastructure has been done!.
Enjoy a picnic in your own park like gardens, meander your way down the road to the Mount Dandenong Hotel for a pub meal, get a coffee and a pie from the bakery, enjoy live music at Kellys Bar or walk the trails off Ridge Road. The location is rich in lifestyle amenities and will bring a lifetime of joy to growing families. This property truly is your piece of paradise in the hills – and only around an hour from central Melbourne – so be quick, this one won’t last.
Call Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 or Caiti Ellis 0493 136 937 to find out more or to arrange an inspection.
WELCOME TO HALF-ACRE TRANQUIL RETREAT
SET on a spacious 2,300sqm, this beautifully renovated brick veneer residence strikes the perfect balance between comfort, space, and serenity.
Tucked away on a quiet no-through road and framed by native bushland, it offers a true hill escape where nature and lifestyle meet.
Inside, the home is warm and inviting. A cosy wood heater, gas ducted heating and split-system cooling make light work of Melbourne’s four seasons in a day, while the modern yet cosy interiors create a homely feel from the moment you step in. The flexible floorplan includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms, catering to young families seeking room to grow as well as downsizers searching for a retreat.
What makes this property truly special is its setting. Wake each morning to the chorus of birdlife, enjoy evenings in the crisp hills air, and enjoy a constant sense of connection to the natural landscape that surrounds you. Sit by the running creek at the bottom of the property and let your thoughts drift away.
This is more than a home—it is a retreat, a place to recharge, slow down, and embrace the lifestyle the Dandenong Ranges are loved for.
You are minutes to Emerald township, community hub, schools and shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Contact locals Mick Dolphin on 0429 684 522 or Caiti Ellis on 0493 136 937 to find out how to easily transition into this highly desirable property.●
MID CENTURY HILLS HAVEN WITH SPACE
SET on a private ¼-acre block in the heart of Emerald, this solid four-bedroom, twobathroom brick home offers space, comfort, and lifestyle appeal. A circular driveway leads to the undercover entry, finished with stone pavers, setting the tone for what’s inside.
At the front of the home, the master bedroom enjoys a wide window and double built-in robes. From here, step down to the carpeted lounge, where tall ceilings, an open fireplace, and large windows frame the garden beyond. Gas ducted heating and brand-new carpets throughout add to the comfort.
The kitchen and dining zone is the true heart of the home, featuring polished parquetry floors, an integrated wall oven, electric cooktop, dishwasher, large pantry, and generous bench space. Sliding doors from the dining area open directly to the back verandah, creating a seamless indoor–outdoor connection.
A light-filled sunroom flows through to a fully self-contained one-bedroom unit with kitchenette and bathroom — perfect for guests, extended family, or teenage retreat. Down the hallway, two further bedrooms with built-in robes share a bright bathroom, complemented by a separate toilet and handy storage cupboards.
Outdoors, the lifestyle continues with a 6m x 8m powered shed with concrete floor, a double garage, raised veggie beds, and an established garden brimming with fruit trees. Whether it’s growing your own produce, tinkering in the shed, or simply enjoying the peaceful surrounds, this property delivers the perfect Hills lifestyle — all just moments from Emerald.
This property has it all so don’t miss outcall to arrange a private inspection today. Please note: All property details shown are correct at time of publishing. Some properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office. ●
Family,GuestsorIncome,DualHomesonIdyllicAcres Justunder15minutesfromPakenhamona quietno-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, aroundyard,dayyardsonapprox.two-thirdsclearedland, fullyfencedandreadyforyouandyourhorses. 190HarvieRoadPakenhamUpper
62KilvingtonDriveEmerald
SealedRoad,WalktoEmerald —BuildYourDream(STCA)
Setona sealedroadandwithinwalkingdistancetotheheartoftown,thisgentlyslopingblockoffers apeacefulsettingtocreateyourdreamlifestyle. Whetheryou’reenvisioning aprivatesanctuary,familyretreat,or acustom-designedhome(STCA), thisgenerous5,827sqmoflandisyourblankcanvas.There’splentyofroomforgardens,outdoor entertaining,andembracingthespaceandserenitythatthehillsareknownfor. With ararecombinationofsize,location,andnaturalbeauty,thisisyourchancetosecurea premiumpieceofEmeraldandbringyourvisiontolife. Don’tjustdreamit —buildit.
HistoricCharminGembrook. Thischarming2-bedroom,1-bathroomweatherboardhome,builtintheearly1900s,isoneof thefewremainingoriginalhomesinGembrook.Seton aspacious1239sqmblock,itcombines periodcharacterwithmoderncomfort.Theloungefeaturesoriginaltimberfloors,10-footceilings &baywindow,whilethesecondlivingareaoffers awoodfire &split-systemairconditioning.The masterbedroomhasa BIR& thekitchenincludestiledbenchtops,a gasstovetop&adoublesink overlookingthebackgarden.A sunroomconnectstothebathroom &separatetoilet.Thefully fencedbackyardisperfectforkids &pets,with apavedentertainingarea &undercoverstorage. Alargesinglegarage,3-phasepower& proximitytothePuffingBillytrainstationcompletethe package. Apeaceful,well-appointedhomewitha uniquehillslifestyle.
BethanySullivan M 0438844968
A SPACIOUS FAMILY RETREAT IN A PRIME LOCATION
SET on a generous 1,820 sqm block, this exceptional 4 bedroom plus study family residence blends the charm of period features with the ease of modern living. With multiple living zones, updated interiors, and expansive outdoor entertaining areas, it offers the perfect lifestyle for families seeking space, comfort, and timeless style.
Upstairs, the heart of the home unfolds. The beautifully updated Caesarstone kitchen with polished floorboards and striking leadlight windows is filled with natural light, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Flowing seamlessly from the kitchen are the lounge, dining, and living areas, each with direct access to the expansive deck where you can relax and take in the stunning forest views in this peaceful location. The lounge boasts a feature fireplace, double glass doors opening onto the deck while the separate dining room also opens onto the deck, making entertaining effortless.
The master suite has a newly renovated ensuite, built-in robes, and double doors to a private balcony—the perfect spot for a quiet morning coffee. A guest bedroom and study complete the upstairs accommodation.
Downstairs provides excellent flexibility for the family featuring two additional bedrooms, a third bathroom, and a spacious second living room with a Coonara wood fire and double doors that lead out to the lower deck and garden.
Practicality has not been overlooked, with a large under-house workshop and storage area, ideal for hobbies, projects, or additional storage.
All of this is located just five minutes from Olinda village, giving you the perfect balance of a peaceful retreat and nearby conveniences, while abundant birdlife and visiting wildlife complete the serene setting.
Contact the agent Jan Brewster 0409 558 805 for details. ●
Setona generous1,820sqmblock,thisexceptional 4bedroomplusstudyfamily residenceblendsthecharmofperiodfeatureswiththeeaseofmodernliving.With multiplelivingzones,updatedinteriors,andexpansiveoutdoorentertainingareas,it offerstheperfectlifestyleforfamiliesseekingspace,comfort,andtimelessstyle.Flowing seamlesslyfromthekitchenarethelounge,dining,andlivingareas,eachwithdirect accesstotheexpansivedeckwhereyoucanrelaxandtakeinthestunningforestviews.
JanBrewster 0409558805
97546111
Belgrave &Cockatoo
BrayLodgeGuestHouse’Circa1930Homestead. Extensivelyrefurbishedwith aprivateyetcentrallocation,thispropertyoffers agolden opportunitytoacquireaniconicandprimelandholdinginOlinda.Thepropertyoffers beautifulgroundsofover8645m2(2.13Acres)thatarehometoanoriginalhomestead circa1930’sincludingtheperfectly flatlawnandestablishedgardens
MeetYourLocalPropertyManagementTeam
Owning arentalpropertyisa biginvestment,letourexperiencedteamensureyourpropertyisperformingatitsbest.With over33yearsofcombinedpropertymanagementexperience,ourdedicatedteamatRangesFirstNationalishereto makethingseasy.Wetakethestressoutofmanagingyourrentalbyhandlingeverydetail;tenantselection,routine inspections,maintenance,andeverythinginbetween,withcare,professionalism,anda strongconnectiontoourlocal community.Whetheryou’reanexperiencedinvestororjustgettingstarted,wetreatyourpropertyasifitwereourown. Ourteampridesitselfonclearcommunication,promptservice,anddeliveringrealresultsthatprotectandgrowyour investmentovertime.We’relocalswhoknowthearea,themarket,andwhatmattersmostwhenitcomestomanaging rentalhomesintheDandenongRangesandsurrounds.Soifyou’rereadyfora fresh,reliableapproachtoproperty management –reachout.We’dlovetochatabouthowwecansupportyouandyourinvestmentgoals.
MOVE IN READY LIVING WITH UNINTERRUPTED VIEWS
TUCKED away in a quiet no-through, tightly held location and offering the perfect combination of privacy, space and style, this ‘move in ready’ property presents a rare opportunity to secure a fully renovated home on a sun-drenched, flat and fully usable ¼ acre block with breathtaking valley views and a kiwi farm as your only rear neighbour.
From the moment you arrive, this home impresses with its fresh, modern updates and thoughtful design. Step inside to discover a light-filled open plan layout featuring three freshly carpeted bedrooms, a neat and tidy central bathroom, ensuite to the main bedroom and a charming character kitchen complete with a 900mm Belling oven, farmhouse sink, ample bench space, and stunning views over the rear deck and beyond, making everyday tasks a true pleasure.
Throughout the home, fresh paintwork, new blinds and curtains, and timber-look laminate flooring enhance the style and functionality, while ducted heating and cooling ensures comfort all year round.
Outside, the appeal continues with a double carport, and a versatile studio that is ideal for use as a workshop, creative space, storage area, or home office. The fully fenced front and rear yards provide a secure and safe environment for children or pets, while the tranquil surroundings offer a true escape from the everyday.
Only minutes from the popular Emerald village, this is more than just a house, it’s a sanctuary you’ll love coming home to. With nothing left to do, you can simply move in and start enjoying the peaceful lifestyle Avonsleigh has to offer. ●
SharynChandler
RARE 1/2 ACRE OPPORTUNITY TO SUBDIVIDE (STCA) OR RETAIN AS INVESTMENT
SITUATED in the Yarra Junction township on a near level allotment of approx. 2023 sqm or over 1/2 an acre, this is the ideal chance to consolidate your investment future.
With Neighbourhood Residential ZoneSchedule 2 (NRZ2), there is a Council Planning Permit and plans to subdivide in conjunction with the adjoining property however this now provides different potential utilizing the concepts and reports already prepared (STCA).
The tenanted home is very well presented and comprises of 3 bedrooms, spacious timber kitchen and family size dining area plus a great living area with cathedral ceilings. Already fenced off from the balance of the allotment, the excellent long term renter ideally would like to continue leasing giving an income at the same time.
Sought after location, short walk to the Upper Yarra High School and Little Yarra Steiner School and offers loads of potential. ●
ConvenientLivingClosetoTown
ThissuperneattownhouseisideallylocatedjustminuteswalktoYarraJunctionsshoppinghub,local schools,shopsandtransport.Boasting 2goodsizebedroomswitha featureliving/loungeroom withfantasticviewsofthedistantmountainsandvalleyvista.Spaciousopenplankitchenanda separatemealsarealeadoutto acoveredentertainingareaanda gardenshed.Neatestablished gardensand alockupgaragecompletetheidealplacetocallhome.A greatvalueproperty,well maintainedandwelllookedafterin apopularandconvenientlocation.
DavidCarroll M 0419539320
AffordableEntryLevelOpportunity!
Positionedon agenerousblock,thisbrickveneerhomeis agreatopportunityforfirsthomebuyers, renovators,orsavvyinvestors.Withthreebedrooms,anupdatedbathroomfeaturingfloortoceiling tilesandseparatebathandshower, afreshenedkitchenincludesgascookingandrangehood -all offering aspaciousandcomfortablelayout.Ductedheatingisa bonusandanEuropeanstyle laundryaddtothefeatures,allofferingfantasticvalueforthelocationandpotential.Thereis agood sizerearyard,fullyfencedforkidsandpetswithsidestreetaccessifwishingtoparkvansorvehicles. Whetheryou’relookingtomovestraightin,modernisefurther,oraddtoyourinvestmentportfolio,this homeisreadytowelcomeitsnewowners.Don’tmissyourchance—propertieslikethisaresnapped upquickly!
EmbracethebestoftheWarburtonlifestylewiththisbeautifullyupdatedbrickhome,proudly positionedon agenerous1,924m²(approx.)allotment.Inside,thehomefeaturesthreebedrooms, eachwithcosycarpet,including aspaciousmastersuitecompletewithwalk-inrobeand astylish privateensuite.Themainbathroomhasbeentastefullyrenovated,boasting afreestandingbath, walk-inshower,anddesignertilechoicesthatelevatethespace.Theopen-planliving,dining,and kitchenareaislightfilledandwelcoming,withlargepicturewindowsthatperfectlycapturethose breathtakingmountainvistas.Forthetradieorhobbyist,there’sgreatshedding,including agarage andworkshop,plusplentyofoff-streetparkingfortrailers,boats,orlargervehicles.Thisproperty offerstheidealmixofupdatedliving,spacetogrow,andincredibleviews.
PrivateSanctuarywithSpectacularMountainViews& FlexibleFamilyLiving Primepositionforpeaceandprivacy,thisremarkablepropertyoffersbreathtaking180degree mountainviews, atranquiltricklingstream,anda lifestyletoimmerseyourself.Thehomecomprises of 4spaciousbedrooms&3bathrooms,theexpansivemastersuitecompletewithwalkinrobeand privateensuite.Thesecondbedroomalsofeatureswalkinrobeandensuite.A further2 bedrooms withbuiltinrobesandfamilybathroom.Polishedtimberfloors,cathedralceilings,andlargepicture windowsfillthehomewithnaturallightandtheoutdoorlivingspaceallowsyoutoreallyindulgein yoursurrounds.Fulllengthfrontverandahwithuninterruptedviews,a sparklingpoolwithgenerous deck -yourownsummeroasis.Featuringestablishedgardens,lushlawns,andpracticaladditions including,doublecarport,goodsizedshed.AllofthiswithineasyreachofWarburtontownship!
RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068
PUZZLES
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Cheeky (5)
4 Reduces expenses (4,5)
9 Tattletale (7)
10 Neat (2,5)
11 Generate out of order (9)
12 Medicinal plant (5)
13 Animal doctor (3)
14 Restrictions to how fast you may go (5,6)
16 A type of surfboard (11)
19 Video game console released in 1985 (1,1,1)
20 Plunder (5)
22 Excellently (9)
25 Endure (7)
26 OKs (7)
27 Propel (9)
28 Waits in ambush (5)
DOWN
1 Staid (5)
2 Lost momentum (9)
3 Lout (coll) (5)
4 Style of handwriting (7)
5 Rear (4,3)
6 Perpendicular breeze (9)
7 African republic (5)
8 Exceeds (9)
13 Turns into gas (9)
14 Joining (9)
15 Hotelier (9)
17 Entreat (7)
18 Bituminous road layer (7)
21 Italian physicist, Enrico – (5)
23 Perform exceptionally (5)
24 Affirmative votes (5)
the nine letters in the
how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter
be included and each letter may only be used
No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
Barkers’ season is all wrapped up
By Peter Stephenson
The Barkers’ league season reached its conclusion at the weekend, with goals galore, two junior teams becoming champions, two finishing second, and one looking forward to finals next week.
On Saturday, the men’s seniors drew 1-1 at home to champions St Kilda. They went behind to a Mark Walsh goal just before half-time, but a header from Ryan Smith late in the game earned a point. It was a very young Barkers side, and a fifth place finish shows promise for next year. The reserves side featured two 15-year-olds as they went down 1-4 to St Kilda (also champions), with the Barkers goal coming from Jack Dixon.
On Sunday the Barkerettes travelled to Melbourne University. In a howling gale at Princes Park, two goals from Charlotte McCullough just before half-time secured a 2-0 win and a sixth place finish. The team was promoted to State 2 last season. After a tough start with only three points from six games, they hauled themselves up to mid-table safety with some fine performances, and finished only four points off third spot.
Meanwhile at Ashburton, the women’s State 4 side broke a long winless run with a 2-1 win. The goals were scored by Savannah Jobling and Alifya Loka. The league will be restructured next season, and the Barkers’ second women’s state team are likely to be in State 6 as the regions are collapsed from four to two.
The Barkers’ junior sides also finished their seasons with plenty to celebrate and enjoy. Pride of place goes to the boys under 14B side, who wrapped up their campaign with a 5-2 win at Bulleen Lions, the goals coming from a Ben Kerr hat-trick, Blake Brindle and Thomas Thorvardson. They are champions of their league, and will compete next week in the 14B finals series against sides from other regions.
Also champions were the boys under 13B side, who won 4-1 at home to Manningham United. The goals were scored by Isaiah Locantio (3) and Rafel Cura. Sadly, due to the multiple regions at under 13B level, this wasn’t quite enough to propel them into the finals series.
Two sides also finished runners-up. The boys under 13C confirmed second spot with an 8-0 win at home to Middle Park. There were hattricks from Archer Piltz and Koby Ryff, with singles from Beau Canning and Samarjit Chahal. Archer is the overall club top scorer this season, with 42 goals.
Not to be outdone, the under 12 girls secured second spot with a 4-0 win at Manningham United. All four goals were scored by Azari Patterson-Leonard, who missed out on the Golden Boot for the whole division by a single goal.
The Community Premier League (CPL) saw the girls under 13, under 15 and under 17 pitted against Manningham United at Pettys Reserve. This was an emotional occasion, as matches between these two clubs are now designated as Louis Gibson Memorial Round, in honour of a young boy who left us far too soon, and has family connections to both clubs. Players, supporters and officials wore orange ribbons for the occasion.
The series began with the under 13s, who battled bravely against a strong side, and went down by only 0-1. Then it was the turn of the under 15s, featuring Louis’s twin sisters Tess and Annabelle. This was a crazy game in a strong wind. First half goals from Tess and Annabelle saw Barkers trail 2-6 at half time. Within seconds of the restart,
Monbulk, Mt Evelyn win semifinals
By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
Tess made it 3-6. Then pocket rocket Audrey Vogels chipped the keeper from an impossible angle to make it 4-6. Next, Mikayla Frogley cleared the ball from her own half, the wind took it all the way to the Manningham keeper, who misjudged the bounce and it was now 5-6. Alas, Manningham caught Barkers on the break to make the final score Manningham 7-5 Barkers.
Barkers saved the best for last. The under 17s, lying at the wrong end of the ladder, pulled off a 3-2 win against second-placed Manningham. Audrey Vogels, playing up an age group, scored twice, and Charlotte Jacobs got the third, to cap off an emotional day.
This has been an exhilarating, exhausting season at the Kennel – fielding 35 teams is a challenge for coaches, team managers, match officials and administrators. However, it’s also great fun, and there’s nothing better than seeing kids enjoying outdoor sport with their mates. Time for a rest before it all cranks up again – see you down the Kennel!
12.8.80 Reserves: Seville 8.5.53 def Pakenham 7.8.50 Under 18: Seville 19.4.118 def Yarra Glen 6.5.41 Netball Premier Division (Semi Finals)
A Grade: 2SF Mt. Evelyn 40 def Wandin 39; 1SF Monbulk 56 def Emerald 50
B Grade: 2SF ROC 46 def Mt. Evelyn 36; 1SF Monbulk 54 def Wandin 47
C Grade: 2SF Mt. Evelyn 45 def Wandin 27; 1SF ROC 43 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 27
D Grade: 2SF Monbulk 29 def Mt. Evelyn 24; 1SF ROC 28 def Wandin 20
Under 17: 2SF ROC Blue 27 def Mt. Evelyn 26; 1SF ROC White 36 def Woori Yallock 27
Under 15: 2SF ROC Blue 35 def Monbulk Maroon 15; 1SF Monbulk Gold 24 def Pakenham Maroon 20
Division 1 (Preliminary Finals)
A Grade: Warburton-Millgrove 43 def Pakenham 38
B Grade: Pakenham 50 def Warburton-Millgrove 32
C Grade: Seville 45 def Warburton-Millgrove 28
D Grade: Pakenham 38 def Warburton-Millgrove 33
Under 17: Pakenham 35 def Warburton-Millgrove 12
The Barkers finished their season mid-table, with a list of promising young players for next season. (Mooroolbark Soccer Club)
The Mooroolbark women’s sides both scored wins for the final match of the season. (Supplied)
Johnathon Hevern of Monbulk marks against Woori Yallock. (Anthea Heagney)
Season over for Lilydale
By Callum Ludwig
The Lilydale Eagles took the field for the last time in 2025, up against Bayswater Strikers away from home.
The Reserves were up first, needing a win or draw to consolidate second spot over their opponents on the day.
Taking a conservative approach to the game due to the influx of players Bayswater brought into the team in recent weeks, the Lilydale Eagles were on the back foot but dealt solidly with most of Bayswater’s early attacks.
Lilydale’s threat looked to be coming on the flanks in the first half, with all of Tarin Cooper, Bailey Hone and Christian ‘Flik’ Lindner-Mark (who returned on limited minutes from a knee injury), finding joy out wide.
Unfortunately, Bayswater’s aerial ability at the back was also a strength and they were able to repel most of the Eagles’ efforts.
Disaster struck in the 35th minute when Bayswater took a short throw-in on the left wing and put in a ball to the backpost which caught out Dongyun ‘Andy’ Kwon, with his opponent Eddie Gottschling able to take a touch and volley it home over Daniel ‘Dicko’ Dickson.
Things worsened for Lilydale when with the last kick of the half when the Strikers capitalised on a lack of communication in the Eagles’ defence, with Sean Dardengo the beneficiary for Bayswater.
The Eagles regrouped at halftime, knowing now it would take a big shift in their effort and application to overcome the deficit and secure second spot.
Chris ‘Westy’ Weston was the main character of the second half, picking up a yellow in the 58th minute which his teammates and spectators could see coming from a mile away.
He then was the man to halve the deficit only two minutes later, being on hand to put the ball in the back of the net following some desperate Eagles attack.
Westy’s flurry of activity concluded in the 71st minute when he was given his marching orders when himself and the Bayswater captain went sliding into a challenge and a round of ref roulette resulted in a sending off for the Lilydale man.
The rest of the game was a combination of the Eagles pushing to equalise while also having to push equally hard back to cover for the extra man.
Bayswater had some chances on the break but failed to extend their lead, while the Eagles were only able to muster some desperate forays forward with a lack of end product.
The most notable moments in the last minutes of the game were two yellow cards to Callum Ludwig and Byron Loveless for a cynical challenge and arguing with the ref respectively.
The 2-1 loss condemned Lilydale to third at the conclusion of the season.
The Seniors were up next, hoping to go out on a high after another tough season.
Things got off to a horror start when a long throw into the box in the 6th minute was flicked on by Bayswater ahead of the hands of Ludwig, with an own goal awarded off Connor Hartman after it ended up in the back of the net.
Archer Maudsley made it 2-0 in the 14th minute after Bayswater’s runs in behind continued to cause havoc for the Lilydale defence. Ludwig had saved a shot from the right-hand side of the box but Lilydale were unable to get the ball clear and it fell to the Bayswater striker whose shot beat Leo Blair on the goal line and found the bottom corner.
Bayswater had a third only three minutes later when Hayden Thompson was on hand to score again and left the Eagles with a mountain to climb.
From there, Lilydale tightened up with a higher line and narrower defence, catching the Strikers offside multiple times while also holding onto the ball a bit more.
It culminated in a lovely move in the 38th minute when a few intricate passes in midfield before heading out wide ended up with the ball at Jasper Blair’s feet and he was able to tuck home to reduce the deficit before halftime.
In the second half, the Eagles started to hold onto the majority of possession but were unable to create clear-cut chances early.
Their task was made harder in the 58th minute when a Bayswater counterattack found Kyle Chandler on the right wing who beat Solomon ‘Amons’ Hranglung for pace before beating Ludwig at his near post after he was slow to come off his line.
Lilydale continued to take a slower, method-
ical approach up the pitch while Bayswater sat off to protect their lead and look to break with pace, with Ludwig called into a save with his left hand and the Striker’s Dardengo also hitting a shot straight at the Lilydale keeper when played through one-on-one, while having another chance inadvertently denied by his own teammate.
Another big Strikers chance came from a corner when Ludwig punched clear to the edge of the box but only as far as
who struck a low shot which took an outstretched foot and a desperate clearance from the Eagles defence to keep out.
Dardengo was able to finally get his goal in the 88th minute when he raced through
again and was able to put his finish between Ludwig’s legs to wrap up the 5-1 win for the home side.
Lilydale finished the season third from bottom of the ladder in eighth place. All that remains is the club Presentation Night on Friday 12 September where the top performers from throughout the year will be recognised.
Maudsley,
unopposed
Callum Ludwig and Dylan Donovan mark the opponent together. (Dongyun Kwon: 501875)
Bailey Hone breaks away with the ball for the Ressies. (Dongyun Kwon: 501875)
Colin Dickson chases the ball. (Dongyun Kwon: 501875)
BEST PRICE, BEST TANKS WITH A LIFETIME GUARANTEE
Concrete tanks built correctly will last a lifetime!
Terry Miller from Terry Miller Concrete Tanks has been in the concrete tank building business for nearly 30 years. Being from country Victoria himself, Terry realises the importance of good water storage systems.
Concrete water tanks built correctly will last a lifetime. They keep your water cool, clean and algae free. This is because our tanks have 130mm walls and a 300mm base, and are poured with 40-mpa strength concrete not 25 or 30 mpa. We also use plasticiser to keep up the strength in the tanks instead of water. And after 28 days of curing the strength of the concrete will be between 48 and 52 mpa. And each tank is poured individually on site. These tanks come out white, which is a sign of the strength in the tanks. The MPA is a measure of how much concrete there is as parts per 1000. The walls of the tank are vibrated all around to ensure that there are no air bubbles and that the concrete is compacted down. Terry generally builds tanks in three sizes, 50,000, 105,000 and 120,000 either with a silo (metal) roof, concrete top or open top tanks.
The tanks will not blow away or fall apart, and this is particularly important in areas where there is high wind, or in fire prone districts. In the event of a fire, a large tank (120,000 litres) can supply water back up to the main house. By setting up a petrol powered generator and pumping water up onto the house directly, via a reverse water sprinkler system, you will keep your home cool and wet. Or if need be, you can jump into the tank to keep cool and be protected from flames and radiant heat. Water is our most important resource, and we cannot have too much of it! So for all your water storage needs when you are thinking of installing your next tank, please call Terry for a quote on 0419 462 814 or 02 6026 7021 or check out our website, www.terrymillerconcretetanks.com.au.
Nearly four years ago, we suffered our own fire here, in Barnawartha, and we were lucky. But it made me realise how important good water storage is. We are in for a long, hot, dry summer, and fire restrictions are in. Having an ample supply of safely stored water is imperative. So why not contact Terry now about your water supply needs, BEFORE, the heat builds up and water scarce. There is nothing more refreshing than your own cool, clear, clean water!
