Mail - Mountain Views Star Mail - 9th September 2025

Family challenge

By Dongyun Kwon

A mum and a daughter will challenge themselves again in November while spending time together through a sport they both enjoy.

This will be the second time for Kylie Ammerlaan and her daughter Charlotte Ammerlaan to take part in the Great Vic Bike Ride.

The 2025 Great Vic Bike Ride will give bike riders a choice of arriving in Mortlake on either Sunday 23 or Monday 24 November before setting off for Koroit.

The route includes Port Fairy, Port Campbell, Timboon and Camperdown.

Both Kylie and Charlotte want to have one more great experience this year.

“It’s set in another part of the state, it’s a different journey. Going down to the Western District and having the opportunity to ride on the Great Ocean Road will be a highlight,” Kylie said.

Turn to page 14 to read more

By Oliver Winn

Council banned it from hosting races.

The escalation came after the farm of world champion racer Daniel “Chucky” Sanders had its evidence for existing use rights rejected by the council in August, as it wasn’t diversified enough. Home to the Dakar Rally winning, 16-time Enduro World Champion Mr Sanders, the Sand-

ers Apple Farm was established in 1976 and has hosted motorbike races since 1982.

In October 2023 the Sanders family decided to apply for existing use rights as the property itself isn’t zoned to legally hold commercial motorcycle races.

Existing use rights would allow the farm to overrule its agricultural zoning requirements if it can prove it had hosted motorcycle races for the past 15 years.

The council mayor Cr Jim Child said in a statement: “While it does appear that commercial motorcycle events have occurred on the land in some form and over some years, the documentation provided to date was not of a sufficient standard to satisfy the assessment requirements.”

Turn to page 6 to read the full article

Kylie (left) and Charlotte are looking forward to the 2025 Great Vic Bike Ride. (Dongyun Kwon: 500921)

No bushfire plan creates risk

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 bush-

fire 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 season,”

“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: Vic machete ban begins

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 knifecrime 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)

Two tragedies on roads in one day

By Oliver Winn

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 and at this stage, police are unsure of the exact circumstances surrounding the collision and have an investigation underway.

Later on at 2.30pm, a collision between a motorcyclist and a car on Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road left the rider dead and four others hospital-

ised, including two children.

The road was closed between Syme Road and Dalry Road.

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.

The car driver is assisting police with their inquiries.

Police investigations remain ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the collision, with CCTV/dashcam footage or any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

According to the Transport Accident Commission (TAC), the number of lives lost on Rural Roads have seen a 19 per cent increase since

last year.

While 92 lives were lost on the road in 2024, 111 have died in 2025.

Yarra Ranges was the LGA with the fourth highest amount of lives lost on the road last year.

Also on the same day, a female pedestrian lost their life after being struck by a truck at 12.50pm.

Meanwhile, a motorcyclist carrying a pilion passenger crashed into a fence in Newborough.

The male rider died while his passenger was taken to hospital.

Victoria Police took to Facebook to issue a warning to all drivers.

“The days may be getting longer, and weather getting warmer, but we still need to remain vigilant behind the wheel,” the post read.

IN BRIEF

Healesville youths affray

Healesville Police have arrested and interviewed four youths in relation to an affray at Queens Park, Healesville in late August.

There will be a high level of Police presence in the Healesville CBD and surrounding vicinity in the coming weeks. The investigation remains ongoing. If you have any further information, please call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Let’s protect community from scam 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 and provide their PIN numbers (as a form of verification during the call).

This is a scam. 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.

Police seek owners of mannequin on a bike

A mannequin and motorbike are the subjects of a criminal investigation in the Yarra Ranges, and Police are asking for public assistance in the matter.

Police have posted to social media on Wednesday 2 September looking for the owners of a stolen mannequin and motorbike and have released an image online.

Friday 29 August saw the Yarra Ranges Criminal Investigations Unit recover a motorbike with a mannequin seated on it. The bike and mannequin are believed to be stolen goods - however the owner has not yet been identified.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Yarra Ranges CIU and talk to Detective BUTLER on 9739 2401.

Watch out Yarra Ranges: It’s swooping season

As the weather gets warmer and the days longer, we also start to see the occasional swooping bird. Native birds enter their breeding season in spring, and some may get protective of their young. Swooping can occur in both urban and rural areas, including parks, gardens, and along bike paths. This behaviour only lasts a short time, usually ending once the young have left the nest. If you are worried about being caught out by a protective bird this spring, there are some steps you can take to feel safe.

These include avoiding known swooping hotspots, moving quickly, and wearing protective head and eye coverings. Don’t harass birds as it can escalate swooping behaviours.

Report a swooping incident on Victoria’s interactive swooping bird map by visiting: wildlife.vic. gov.au/managing-wildlife/swooping-birds.

All native wildlife is protected by law. Harassing, harming or disturbing native birds and other wildlife is illegal in Victoria and penalties apply.

Two people died in the Yarra Ranges due to a car crash on Wednesday 3 September. (File)

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 opportunities 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.

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.”

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.

“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 help boosted

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.”

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.

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)

Shadow Health and Aged Care Minister and Deputy Opposition Leader in the Senate Anne Ruston was a key player in pushing the government to release more home care packages. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas)

Full throttle support for Apple Farm track

By

Motorcycling bodies across Victoria have thrown their support behind the Sanders Apple Farm as it takes the fight to continue holding motorcycle events to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

State controlling body Motorcycling Victoria, along with major clubs Motorcycle Racing Club Victoria (MCRCV) and Diamond Valley Motorcycle Club (DVMCC) expressed their support for the Three Bridges farm after the Yarra Ranges Council banned it from hosting races.

The escalation came after the farm of world champion racer Daniel “Chucky” Sanders had its evidence for existing use rights rejected by the council in August, as it wasn’t diversified enough. MCRCV president Gary Puddy said the club supplied the Sanders farm with “all the evidence that it [has]” from the beginning and it would continue to support the farm in every way it could.

Meanwhile, Motorcycling Victoria have only provided evidence after the council rejected the Sanders farm’s application, despite repeated requests for evidence prior to the application’s rejection.

Motorcycling Victoria chief executive officer Edward Wilson said now that the council had rejected the initial evidence, it would step in to provide further support.

“Noting the recent outcome, we’re now jumping in to offer support, and we’re hopeful that information that we’re providing can certainly support a positive outcome.”

DVMCC president Dave Robinson said the club would do everything they could to support the Sanders family in acquiring existing use rights.

“It’s in everyone’s best interest to have… the property open for junior development. We’ll do anything we can to help, even financially, if that’s what it takes,” Mr Robinson said.

Home to the Dakar Rally winning, 16-time Enduro World Champion Mr Sanders, the Sanders Apple Farm was established in 1976 and has hosted motorbike races since 1982.

A cornerstone of the motorbiking community, Mr Sanders said the farm has shaped his career and provided a safe place for thousands of locals to ride.

“For 40 plus years our family property in Three Bridges has been home to motorbike races, junior

coaching, ride days, fundraisers and trail rides.

“A safe, legal place for locals to ride and one of the last private spots left in Australia for events like this,” Mr Sanders said.

In October 2023 the Sanders family decided to apply for existing use rights as the property itself isn’t zoned to legally hold commercial motorcycle races.

Existing use rights would allow the farm to overrule its agricultural zoning requirements if it can prove it had hosted motorcycle races for the past 15 years. The Sanders Apple Farm have hosted motorcycle events since 1982.

But, the council mayor Cr Jim Child said in a statement: “While it does appear that commercial motorcycle events have occurred on the land in some form and over some years, the documentation provided to date was not of a sufficient standard to satisfy the assessment requirements.”

Cr Child noted the reliance on photographic evidence and testimonials as the reason for rejecting the application.

But Bob Sanders, one of the three brothers who ran the motorcycle events at the Sanders Apple Farm, said the council hadn’t given them any guidance on what sort of evidence they were lacking.

“We’ve spent all this time and effort and they have still not stipulated what we’re missing in paperwork.

“They say we haven’t got enough evidence, but they haven’t actually outlined what it is specifically,” Bob Sanders said.

Kangaroo shooting in Dixons Creek shocks community

By Tanya Steele

A grim act of wildlife cruelty has shocked local wildlife carers and residents in the Yarra Ranges. In Dixons Creek, a kangaroo was the subject of a huge recovery effort after it was seen with a severe gunshot injury on 2 September.

Vet and chief executive officer of Vets for Compassion, Elaine Ong, said someone in the general public initially spotted the roo around the Dixons Creek area.

“It wasn’t that easy to find the roo, it was still very mobile and quite scared of humans,” she said.

Residents and volunteer wildlife rescuers from both Vets for Compassion, Rescue, Rehabilitate, and Release and Wildlife Victoria searched the area for a couple of days.

The roo was finally spotted on the third day.

The roo was tranquillised, later euthanised, and also found to be carrying a non-viable joey within her pouch.

Sue Forrester, resident and long-term wildlife carer in Dixons Creek, said they ‘did an incredible job finding that kangaroo.’

Ms Ong said the situation was terrible.

“The poor animal would have suffered in pain for those days, not able to eat or drink,” she said. Ms Ong said it’s not clear who would have shot the animal, as the act seemed very deliberate.

“Whoever it was, it was unacceptable,” she said.

But Cr Child said “council had several discussions with the owner on the type and variety of evidence required” for the application.

Bob Sanders said there’d been very few phone calls with the council as majority of the communications had been done via email.

He also criticised the council not being able to recognise statutory declarations as evidence despite statutory declarations being recognised in VCAT.

If the case does get taken to VCAT, Bob Sanders said he had faith that “hundreds“ of people would be happy to swear under oath about their experiences using the track at the Sanders Apple Farm.

Federal member for Casey Aaron Violi MP expressed his support for the Sanders Apple Farm in a comment on Facebook.

“Hi Daniel, I’m so sorry to hear about this decision. This will undoubtedly have a huge impact on not only your family but our wider Yarra Ranges community.

“As our federal MP, local council and state planning decisions are not something I have jurisdiction over, however, you have my support and I will be raising this with the council today,” Mr Violi said.

The case has garnered widespread media attention after Mr Sanders came out about the ordeal, with appearances on major news platforms such as Channel Nine and the Herald Sun.

The Sanders family is set to take the case to VCAT next week.

“I don’t believe it’s the wider community, I think it’s a minority,“ Ms Forrester said.

While continuing their work, Ms Ong said that the wildlife group volunteers are all shocked and grieving after two women died after being struck by a vehicle on the Hume Freeway at Craigieburn last Thursday night.

“It has caused a lot of heartbreak for us, because it is what we volunteers all over Australia do every day,” she said.

“We are out there rescuing animals sometimes on the road, we are just grieving for these two women and their families and the poor driver of the car who hit them.”

“They were just being compassionate.”

Wildlife on roads and the increasing number of animal deaths on roads is a statewide issue, with a wildlife strike enquiry for Victoria just closing last week.

For now, Ms Ong said she urges people to slow down on the roads.

“People just have to become more conscious,“ Ms Forrester said.

On their social media, Vets for Compassion pointed to the wider issue of kangaroos being killed and said what happened to the roo is part of a much bigger story of cruelty that too often goes unseen.

Ms Ong would like the public to be more aware and remember that kangaroos can feel fear and pain.

“There’s enough killing in the world,” she said.

Bob Sanders has been heavily helping run motorcycling events at the farm since 1982. (Oliver Winn: 501529)

The Sanders Apple Farm has offered a rare safe and friendly environment for youth interested in motorbike riding. (Oliver Winn: 501529)

Oliver Winn

The roo was seen with a severe gunshot injury on 2 September. (Vets for Compassion Facebook)

Homeless choose safety

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)

Stable One builds on support

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 to the stage to share more about the impact of the wider network, and said it came about as an effective way to multiply the impact of their winter shelter model without having to directly 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, fragility and times of volatility on a whole 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

and just knowing that I can’t actually do anything 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)

Venue coordinators are thanked for their efforts throughout the season. (Callum Ludwig: 500996)

Hoddles Creek PS turns 150

By Oliver Winn

The Hoddles Creek Primary School is turning 150 on Saturday 20 September where it will celebrate its rich history with students past and present.

The event will run from 11.00am to 2.00pm where a range of activities and fun will take place.

Hoddles Creek Primary School principal Leanne Timoney said many were looking forward to the reunion with past students who’ve since “moved down the line“.

“Everyone I have spoken to have such wonderful memories of being at Hoddles Creek as a student, I think they’ll really look forward to coming back and reconnecting with staff and fellow peers,“ Ms Timoney said.

There will be historical displays showing the school’s past on the day, alongside “old fashion games“ such as hopscotch, marbles, elastics skittles, hula hoops and quoits.

The Hoddles Creek CFA will host a sausage sizzle and refreshments, while the Yarra Valley Red Cross will have its own stall to sell some goodies.

Guests can also expect live music entertainment too with Bluebird Music Studios putting on a performance on the day.

“We’re happy with anyone to come and have a look through the school, we’re open and we’re looking forward to seeing lots of people“

Ms Timoney said it felt surreal when she found out it’d been 150 years since the school’s establishment.

“It feels surreal, it’s just amazing, I can’t explain it.“

Established in 1875, Hoddles Creek Primary School used to be merged with Warburton Primary School, but it split off later at an unknown date.

Back then, one part-time teacher served the school, who used to “ride their horse to Warburton Primary School“ as they would switch between schools.

The school also used to be located on a differ-

ent site, though it’s not known where the original site is today - though the current site is still quite old, with the main building celebrating its centenary in 2016.

Ms Timoney has been teaching at Hoddles Creek Primary School since 2002, and she said

she was most excited to see all the old faces reconnect.

The school is also known for its extremely low number of enrolments, with only four students currently attending the school. But, this doesn’t affect the education quality -

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.

if anything, Ms Timoney said it was providing better outcomes for neurodiverse students.

“We’re so in tune with the kids and their needs and we cater for them,“ Ms Timoney said.

For more details about the day, call the school on 5967 4282.

KEN HUNT Monbullk Jewellers

The school was established in 1875. (Rob Carew: 177036)

FIRE RESILIENT COMMUNITIES

Montrose fire’s 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/

View of the Reserve from Burke’s Lookout Mount Dandenong. (Stewart Chambers: 466806)

The Dr Ken Leversha Reserve was left blackened by fire, with much of the habitat and food sources burned. (Frank Tsai - Boronia CFA)

(Frank Tsai - Boronia CFA)

(Mooroolbark CFA)

RICCI’S BIKKIES OPEN DAY

Ricci’s Yo-Yos bounce back

After 22 years in business, Ricci’s Bikkies is bringing back its most celebrated creation — the Yo-Yo — reviving an 80-year old family recipe steeped in tradition, community, and love.

Buttery, delicate, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, Ricci’s Yo-Yos are the kind of treat that spark instant nostalgia. And now, after two decades of requests, they’re finally back.

The comeback begins with a one-day-only factory-door event on Saturday 13 September, from 10am to 2pm, at the Hunter Road bakery in Healesville.

It’s a milestone that feels full circle for Ricci and Ross, who began their journey in 2003 when Ricci, a mother of three, started baking from home. From humble beginnings, Ricci’s Bikkies grew into a thriving business — supported by its community, spread through word of mouth, and cherished for biscuits that quickly became a local favourite.

Two decades on, Ricci’s Bikkies stands as Australia’s first — and largest — pita crisp producer, with products now on supermarket shelves nationwide and exports reaching the USA, Japan, Singapore, the UAE, and China. Closer to home, you might know them best for their pita crisps in Coles delis — stacked in rustic baskets right at the counter, a little reminder of how a Yarra Valley bakery found its way into the nation’s everyday shopping trips. And for Ricci, there’s an extra layer of pride: her mum, Irene, now nearly 80, still makes a weekly stop at Coles to pick up her Ricci’s Bikkies — proof that family tradition and community connection run right through the brand. Yet despite that global footprint, the heart of the business remains firmly in Healesville.

That sense of place infuses everything they do. Consider their celebrated collaboration with Four Pillars Gin, where distilled gin botanicals are transformed into an artisan pita crisp that Ricci proudly calls ’the tastiest cheese carrier out there’ — a clever idea first

dreamed up by her husband Ross. It’s delicious, inventive, and unmistakably Yarra Valley.

Still, it’s the Yo-Yos that hold a special kind of magic. For locals, they’re more than just a biscuit — they’re woven into family stories, morning teas, and childhood memories.

“These sales are our way of saying thank you,” Ross said.

“The Yo-Yos connect us back to where it all began, and we want people to share in that.”

“For me, the Yo-Yos are more than a biscuit — they hold the joy and memories of the last 22 years.“

Ricci said they built this business alongside their daughters, who are now grown and following their own paths.

“But when they come home, we’re reminded that our roots are still here, firmly tied to this community,“ she said.

“In our family, a biscuit is never just a biscuit — it’s the bond of our story, and the thread that connects us back to where it all began.”

The journey hasn’t been without support. Ricci and Ross are quick to acknowledge the role of Yarra Ranges Council’s Business Investment and Support team (Economy, Tourism and Culture Department), whose steady guidance and encouragement have helped the bakery grow while remaining true to its Healesville roots.

At the centre of it all are the staff — the bakers, packers, and dreamers who keep the wheels turning every day.

“They’re the heartbeat of Ricci’s Bikkies, giving life and energy to everything we do. Our workplace is more than just a workplace — it’s a safe place for all, built on equality, respect, and the belief that everyone has a place at the table.”

Our dearest friend, Merlin Cunliffe, has also been part of Ricci’s Bikkies since the very beginning. Many Yarra Valley locals will remember him from Cunliffe & Waters — the much-loved business founded by his late wife, our beloved friend Mandy, with Merlin’s creative graphics giving it its distinctive look. In the early 2000s, he would often join Ricci in her little shop, rolling Yo-Yos by hand. That generosity of spirit, his boundless enthusiasm, and his quiet wisdom have shaped so much of what’s been built. At 90, Merlin remains a mentor, a friend, and family to us — and it is with deep gratitude and respect that we honour all he has given to our journey.

After all these years, the Yo-Yos bring us back to where it all began — reminding us that sometimes the sweetest journeys are the ones that lead us home.

L-R: Ross and Ricci. (Supplied)

Year of firsts for Donna Legg

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.

Oscar Wilde’s witty work a must see at Lilydale 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 late1800s 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 Carter - Wanderling Photography)

IN THE SP0TLIGHT

New exhibition at Waterwheel

By Oliver Winn

In a world where negative headlines dominate the media, one Yarra Ranges artist finds comfort in the cracks and carvings of fallen tree trunks.

For the month of September, a new exhibition at the Warburton Waterwheel has opened which showcases the whimsical wooden works of wood sculptor Shlomit Moria.

Through a host of various sculptures, Tales the Trees Told Me showcases the beauty of nature and the subsequent joy one can find within it.

Ms Moria said her work is an act of rebellion against the pervasive negativity we consume on the internet.

“You always have such horrible headlines, everything is divided, everybody’s hating each other, everything is really black and white,” Ms Moria said.

“This is a reminder that our world is actually beautiful. We have amazing nature, especially here in Victoria, in the Yarra Valley.

“[It’s] about creating happy stories [and] creating something good.”

After moving to Warburton 19 years ago, Ms Moria was inspired by the natural beauty of the Yarra Ranges.

It prompted a career change from graphic design to wood sculpting where she now takes on commissions from bigger businesses.

There’s a noticeable sense of joy permeating throughout her signature large-scale sculptures - one piece called Freedom depicted a small person riding on the back of an animal, arms outstretched and hair blowing in the wind.

Ms Moria said Freedom was inspired by a memory while travelling in India, where she was riding a Vespa scooter.

“I was driving down this mountain and at the time I had no helmet… I felt this freedom, and people on the side of the road were waving, it was just the best.”

Another sculpture, titled Gazers, depicts six figurines standing side by side, gazing upwards - it demonstrated Ms Moria’s tendency to interweave simple yet effective social commentary through her art.

She said it portrayed our tendency to follow the herd instead of choosing our own path.

Ms Moria described her process of making sculptures which usually starts with a large bit of wood she either finds herself, or receives from friends.

First, she begins by sketching a design before then using a chainsaw to get a rough shape of her final product.

Using a variety of power tools, she then sands the wood to get a smooth finish.

“I design them first, I sketch everything and then I transfer it into the wood,” she said.

Alongside her signature large-scale sculptures, she introduces delicate, small-scale carvings inspired by the community whittling workshops she has led across Victoria.

“Usually when I do big things… it’s very one-dimensional… Now I could just expand it by creating a lot more different things. Because you can have more than just one element.”

While the time to complete her work can vary

from piece to piece, she said it normally takes around two weeks to finish a sculpture.

In an age where our worldviews are shaped by the internet and not the physical space around us, Tales the Trees Told Me acts as a poignant reminder to slow down, get outside and touch some grass.

“You can go out of the house, breathe the freshest air and see the beautiful mountains, and everything is all right.

“Go out there, be in nature, enjoy some adven-

ture, have fun. There are also good stories.

my concept.”

Yarra Valley community invited to Sing for Unity together

By Dongyun Kwon

Valley community members are invited to a free event to sing songs for peace, unity, community and equality.

Catherine Nolan is organising an event Sing For Unity in Healesville.

Sing For Unity is a worldwide musical movement for unity, peace and community on UN International Day of Peace.

Ms Nolan said people all around the world will sing songs that they like, about peace or that bring people together at 2pm and create a sound wave constantly for 24 hours.

“Obviously, all the world leaders aren’t going to stop wars immediately but what they’re going to do is create positivity amongst individuals and groups,” she said.

“When people sing, they create endorphins, dopamine, the feel good hormone, and that makes people feel positive, and positivity increases peace and less conflict.”

On Sunday 21 September, voices from every corner of the planet will sing to send a powerful message, ‘We are one world, one people and we stand together in unity and community’.

Ms Nolan is asking people to arrive at the

“When we sing in different languages, we can develop a tolerance and appreciation of other people, and at this time with everything that’s going on in the world, it’s good to be embracing different languages and different cultures,” she said.

“That’s why I’ve chosen those songs, but other people around the world will sing songs that resonate with their own group, choir or community.”

The participants are going to sing the songs at 2pm and then take a short street parade.

After that, they will return to the Senior Citizens Hall and have afternoon tea and a concert of local performers.

Artists who are performing in the concert are Robbie Grieg, Aaron Burton, Hoel Durand, David Johnston, Cinderella a cappella, Peter Nolan and more local artists.

It’s a free event but gold coin donation is appreciated.

“It’s accessible to everybody in the community, including wheelchair access,“ the event organiser said.

“People of all ages are welcome to attend but they just need to register with me on my email address.”

If you have any enquiries, contact Ms Nolan via email on catherinenolan@bigpond.com

That’s

Ms Moria’s exhibition at the Warburton Wa-

terwheel has its official opening on Saturday 6 September at 1pm, and will be displayed until 30 September.

Ms Moria’s exhibition will be on display until 30 September. (Oliver Winn: 500821)

“Freedom” represents the signature sense of joy that permeates Ms Moria’s work. (Oliver Winn: 500821)

“Gazers” reflects Ms Moria’s tendency to add social commentary in her work. (Oliver Winn: 500821)

Yarra

Healesville Senior Citizens Hall at 18 Green Steet by 1pm to learn the songs in different languages; a Yiddish Song Hashi Venu, an Arabic song Asa-

laam Aleikhum by Veda Murti (Sufi chant), Imagine by John Lennon and Blowin’ in the Wind by Bob Dylan.

Sing For Unity is a worldwide musical movement for unity, peace and community on UN International Day of Peace 2025, Sunday 21 September. (Unsplash)

Family set to challenge ride

By Dongyun Kwon

A mum and a daughter will challenge themselves again in November while spending time together through a sport they both enjoy.

Kylie Ammerlaan and her daughter Charlotte Ammerlaan, who live in Yarra Glen, will participate in the 2025 Great Vic Bike Ride.

This is their second time taking part in the ride.

Charlotte said last year’s experience was good, although the weather wasn’t the best.

“We’ve been chased by a big rainstorm most of the way down, but it was good fun,” the daughter said.

Kylie said they loved every minute of last year’s ride and were joined by three more friends, which made the experience even more special.

“It was good to do it with friends and meet lots of new people, see parts of the countryside where we’d travelled past in a car before,” the mum said.

“It’s lovely to spend the time with Charlotte and get to do something that we both enjoy together.

“(Last year, we started from) Wodonga and we finished in Healesville and we got to ride through the Black Spur, which was a highlight.”

Kylie has loved cycling throughout her life, but she had to stop it for a while after having kids.

She got back into cycling about 12 years ago, joining a group of mums from Gruyere Primary School on Friday mornings.

Charlotte started road riding last year, but she had been into mountain biking before.

“Mountain biking is much more technical. You have different styles of trails. Road riding is an easy but longer ride,” she said.

The 2025 Great Vic Bike Ride will give bike riders a choice of arriving in Mortlake on either Sunday 23 or Monday 24 November before setting off for Koroit.

The route includes Port Fairy, Port Campbell, Timboon and Camperdown.

The ride is a fully catered, tent-based holiday.

There is extensive on-route support, luggage transfers, entertainment, medical team, bicycle repair facilities, eBike charging and much more.

Both Kylie and Charlotte want to have one more great experience this year.

To get prepared for the upcoming challenge, the mum and the daughter have been doing different exercises.

“I’ve been riding 50 to 100km each week throughout winter. I also do pilates for strength and flexibility,” Kylie said.

“Charlotte played footy for Healesville during

“It’s set in another part of the state, it’s a different journey. Going down to the Western District and having the opportunity to ride on the Great Ocean Road will be a highlight,” Kylie said.

the winter. With school and work on top of that, it’s been tough for her to squeeze in riding.

“Footy finished recently, so she’s finally ready to get back on the bike and join me and our friends on a Sunday ride”.

The mum said she loves that cycling has become something her family can all do together as a way to stay active, challenge themselves, and connect with each other.

“For the past 10 years, my family has spent a week during January in Bright,” Kylie said.

“I’ve tackled Mt Buffalo many times as part of the Alpine Classic with my friends, while Charlotte and her dad enjoy mountain biking through Mystic Park

“This year, my husband, Charlotte, and I all rode up Mt Buffalo together. Next year, we’re setting our sights on Falls Creek”.

Students from Werribee learn about Landcare ecology

By Dongyun Kwon

Students from Werribee visited the Bluegum Reserve in Badger Creek to check out firsthand what they’d learnt in school.

Mt Toolebewong and District Landcare has been revegetating the Bluegum Reserve and surrounding areas in Badger Creek for nearly a decade, with the support of other community groups and volunteers.

Mt Toolebewong and District Landcare president Graeme George said the idea of revegetation is to repair the damage.

“A lot of these areas have been cleared, so we’re putting back the vegetation that was there to restore the ecology to protect the stream banks and provide a bit of biodiversity,” he said.

“We do one or two major plantings a year. Occasionally, we get some spare plants and just pop them in a few spots where there are some gaps.

“Yarra Ranges Council provides a lot of resources for us to use. They provide the plants, a whole lot of tools like trailers, stakes, bags and other things.”

Over the past 10 years, the local landcare group has planted blackwood wattles, silver wattles, hazel pomaderris, dogwoods, coranderrks (Victorian Christmas bushes) and so forth.

“When you have a look at some of the areas we planted a few years ago, you wouldn’t realise now that they were replanted because it looks so natural,” Mr George said.

“And there are a couple of areas where we’ve recently planted. There’s one up the creek, and there’s a whole lot down at the nearest Healesville Sanctuary.

“That was just done for a tree planting day just a few weeks ago with the local landcare group and a lot of volunteers.“

It was on Friday 29 August, when MacKillop Catholic Regional College Year 10 students came out to the Bluegum Reserve.

ence for students to get out in the field and to see first-hand what they’d learnt in their geography and geology classes.

“We’ve come out to let the kids get some exposure to a new environment that they don’t always get to experience,” he said.

“They’re doing outdoor education at the

ment in Year 10, and we’re

“Going

Kylie Ammerlaan (left) and her daughter Charlotte Ammerlaan will participate in the 2025 Great Vic Bike Ride. (Dongyun Kwon: 500921)

Mr George showed the students around the reserve and explained the local ecology and the revegetation projects his landcare group had done.

MacKillop Catholic Regional College outdoor field officer Jim Maguire said it’s a good experi-

mo-

linking this into some of their environmental science studies, their geography and geology classes as well.

into VCE (Victorian Certificate of Education), we’re preparing them for that as well.”

Mr George explains the local ecology and the revegetation projects Mt Toolebewong and District Landcare have done. (Dongyun Kwon: 500850)

Sue Ashby’s long service honoured

The Upper Yarra community gathered at All Saints Anglican, Yarra Junction on 26 August, to honour and celebrate Sue Ashby’s remarkable 12 years of service as she steps down from her leading role at All Saint’s Food Bank.

Described as a “legend in the community“, Ms Ashby tirelessly ran the ministry, serving people “fortnight in, fortnight out” with a small band of fellow helpers.

Upper Yarra Anglican vicar Luke Whiteside described the event to celebrate Ms Ashby’s last day as a “very small way to honour such significant service”.

Ms Ashby founded the ministry with her husband Alan, and support of her daughters. With a team of volunteers and support from individuals like reverend Gail Pinchbeck

and Julie O’Neill and organizations such as LinC, the Food Bank has served thousands of people every year.

Reflecting on her experience Ms Ashby said it’d been wonderful working with clients and volunteers.

“It’s been actually a pleasure to work with everybody… I’m going to miss everybody.“

While the exact duration of her broader volunteer work in the area sparked a friendly debate, with some suggesting 30-40 years, her impact on the Food Bank for over a decade is undeniable.

Her youngest daughter Chantel Ball echoed the community’s sentiment.

“She goes with it wholeheartedly. She puts all of herself into it.”

Long time clients also expressed their gratitude and one said it’d been a pleasure working with Ms Ashby.

“[It] really has on behalf of all the other oldies that can’t be here. Thank you very much.“

The Food Bank is continuing, but will now move to fortnightly on Wednesdays from 1pm to 4pm, with the next sessions scheduled for 10 and 24 September as part of the ministries of Zac’s Place and the Anglican Church.

In closing the celebration, Rev Whiteside noted Mother Theresa’s quote that “Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.”

“In serving our community for such an extended period, Sue has indeed done a great thing.“

Indoor bowls, gifts and men’s shed open

Indoor Carpet Bowls at Badger Creek Hall

Expressions of interest: Come Along’N Try

Either Sunday 14 or Sunday 21 September between 1pm and 3pm.

Who: Anyone, all ages, families, works - enter teams of two or more, or singularly for pot luck teams.

When: Friday evenings between 7pm and 9pm (or by arrangement at other times).

Where: Badger Creek Hall, 358 Badger Creek Road, next to CFA.

What: Short seasons of four to eight weeks at a weekly cost of $2 per player.

How: BYO bowls optional or use ours.

Fine details yet to be finalised.

Contact secretary Kathleen by phone on 59623639 or via email at enquiries@badgercreekhall.org.au

Visit WHYLD minimarket for gifts

If you’re looking for great homemade gifts, the WHYLD Minimarket is the place to go.

It will take place at 22 Old Dalry Road, Don Valley Hall on Saturday 13 September, from 12-3pm.

The market is an all weather indoor market, with table spaces available for $10. For food options, there’s a barbecue by Don Valley Primary School, barista coffee, teas and cold drinks, and more.

The market focuses on locally handcrafted products, seasonal produce and plants from WHYLD, and Yarra Valley Red Cross hand-

Woori Yallock bank provides 10,000 meals

By Oliver Winn

A generous donation from the Community Bank Woori Yallock and District (WYD) to Foodbank Victoria has helped provide thousands of free meals to those in need.

It came after Bendigo Bank partnered with Foodbank Victoria to help alleviate the growing demand on its supplies as food insecurity grows with the cost of living.

Community Bank WYD branch manager Justin Hall said the bank was glad to support families and individuals facing food insecurity in Australia.

“As the branch manager I am very excited to share the news from the Woori Yallock and District Community Bank. Our team is incredibly proud,“ Mr Hall said.

“It’s heartening to see how our local community can come together and make a real difference.“

The bank made a $5000 donation to Foodbank Victoria on 29 August which marked the end of the Vic Metro’s Winter Food Drive.

The Vic Metro’s Winter Food Drive lasted the entirety of August which pushed for food donations to help replenish the shelves of Foodbank Victoria.

“This contribution will help provide around 10,000 meals to individuals and families facing food insecurity,“ Mr Hall said.

Foodbank is the largest hunger relief charity in Australia that links surplus food and groceries to people in need, which was established in 1930 to support Victorians through the Great Depression. It provides food and grocery relief to just under 3000 frontline charities and 3220 school breakfast programs to help feed people in need.

In the last 12 months, 3.4 million households in Australia struggled to put food on their table

Last year alone, Foodbank sourced enough food for 92 million meals.

made goods.

To find out more, contact WHYLD at welcome@whyld.org.au, or call on 0458 594 606.

Otherwise, visit whyld.org.au for more information.

Badger Creek and District Men’s Shed Open Day

As part of Men’s Shed Week from 8 to 13 September, the Badger Creek and District Men’s Shed will be hosting an Open Day on Wednesday 10 September from 10am to 2pm.

The theme for this year is ‘Building Health Communities’ and all are welcome to come along and see what we do and have a chat over a cuppa and lunch.

The Shed is located at 360 Badger Creek Road, Badger Creek behind the Badger Creek CFA Fire Station.

For any questions or further information contact secretary Graeme Chester by phone on 0412 165 420.

It currently is looking specifically for eight staple items that are most in demand: tuna, sauce, pasta, rice, cereal, UHT milk, canned fruit and canned vegetables.

Alongside Community Bank WYD, the Warburton-Yarra Junction branch and Wandin-Seville branch also took part.

Community Bank Wandin-Seville executive officer Leah Thompson said the collective action from all the community banks would combine to make a big impact.

“All of the Bendigo bank branches are collecting donations for the month of August so together there should be an opportunity for a meaningful donation to help make a difference,” she said.

Mr Hall thanked those who supported the Community Bank WYD and said supporting those struggling with food insecurity was a collective effort.

“A huge thank you to everyone involved for supporting this initiative—together, we can help those struggling with the reality of food insecurity.“

“Thanks finally to our customers without your support, we wouldn’t be unable to give back to the community in this way.“

L-R: Food bank volunteers past and present, David Wilson, Gabby Wilson, Shirley Pye, Sue Ashby, Faye Jameson, David Bowshall, Chantelle Ball, Alan Ashby, Sue Wynne. (Supplied)

L-R: Foodbank Victoria partnership manager Elisa Dillon, Community Bank WYD company chair Peter Crownley and branch manager Justin Hall. (Supplied)

Spring cleaning with words

WOORILLA WORDS

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 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.

The 13th century Sufi mystic poet Rumi in his poem The Guest House reflected on embracing all emotions and experiences, even the negative ones that come and go allowing negative feelings to pass through you rather than clinging to them. This being human is a guest house.

Every morning a new arrival.

A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor.

The poem continues with the idea that we should welcome all thoughts, even the difficult ones, because they teach us something.

Rumi’s idea of “spring cleaning” is about allowing those negative thoughts to come and go, rather than allowing them to settle in.

Each of these poems touches on the theme of mental renewal, whether it’s through acceptance of all thoughts, detaching from negativity, or finding peace in nature or resilience.

They are all gentle reminders that the process of clearing your mind is often about embracing impermanence and finding ways to shift perspective.

Spring Cleaning your house can be a satisfying and also a meditative experience which may lead to renewed self-discovery and resilience.

So too is embracing the power of the natural world.

Woorilla Poetry Prize is now accepting entries: woorilla.org.au

A passionate response for Palestine by 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 Bethlehem as well as Tel Aviv and other places in Israel. I spoke to both Palestinians and Jews, I visited a refugee camp in Bethlehem and a military court, amongst other places of political and social interest.

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 Nations in 1947. In 1948 Israeli paramilitary groups, (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 hundreds of years. They became refugees, some in their 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 Israel from other parts of the world and settlements, 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 exponentially since October ‘23.

The population of Palestine up until the

1930s was approximately 86 per cent Palestinian, nine per 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 replaced by a British military occupation mandated 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 the Jewish people based on the Old Testament. The Balfour declaration in 1917 talked about a ‘national Home for Jewish people in Palestine’, it also said ‘it being clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious’ rights of existing non-Jewish communities’. Palestine has for thousands of years been the home of Arab Palestinians with Jews and Christians 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 the majority of the two million residents of Gaza are 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 a planned famine and genocide.

We should put the 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. Many of them were women and children targeted by those IDF troops.

Spring can mean a refresh but Maria Millers suggests it is also a time for your mind to reset. (Unsplash)

PUZZLES

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

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 grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

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

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,talkingaboutherpastlifewithhermotherleaving 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

Apparently there is such a thing called “Re-

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 characterdevelopmentthroughoutthebook. 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.

Chilling by Riley James.

search Station Noir”.

The War of 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.

SUPER NEAT – RENOVATED

THIS charming little gem is the ideal match for anyone seeking a low maintenance, cosy lifestyle in a beautifully renovated home. Whether you're looking to downsize, invest in an Airbnb opportunity, or simply settle into your own private retreat, this delightful property is ready to impress.

Step inside to discover a tastefully updated interior, featuring a beautifully appointed kitchen with gas cooktop, ample storage, and plenty of space to cook up a storm. The open plan living area is warm and inviting, with a crackling wood fire creating a homely ambience for relaxed evenings at home.

44 Carroll

Offering two bedrooms, including a generous master complete with a built in robe. The fresh, modern bathroom boasts a stunning deep bath ideal for long, relaxing soaks, European style laundry adds extra convenience without sacrificing space. Outside, the fully fenced backyard is a true haven, enjoy a laid back country vibe with bushland at the rear, space for chooks, a cat run, and even room for your dogs to roam safely. With multiple sheds to potter in and a single carport plus extra parking at the front, this is a great package at a super affordable price. ●

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

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

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.

Noel’s nett blitzes field

By Ron Hottes

There was no V.V.V. Comp this week, as the Club hosted a Senior’s event on the Monday.

The V.V.V’s will definitely be back next week, as more and more of the “girls” return to regular competition.

Wednesday 3 September: The Stroke and M. McGrann bag-day qualifier.

There was a larger field than in recent times, a reflection on improved conditions and more reliable weather.

This seemed to appeal to our daily winner, Noel-Cross, because Noel’s Nett 68 “blitzed” the

field by a significant margin!

His Nett 68 just showed what good form he is in at the moment - a promising sign for the looming Master’s-pennant season.

The runner-up on this day was Mr. Consistent, Barry-Maltman, who posted a Nett 72.

The balls reached down to Nett 75. NTP winners were Senior-Garside, (3rd), Mr. Hendy, (12th), Alan-Macdonald, (15th) - and to illustrate the dominance that Noel-Cross had over the rest of the field, he took home NTP’s for both the 5th and the 9th.

Saturday 6 September: Stroke and Monthly-

Medal

Under sunny and drying skies, the scores were always going to be impressive. And, wow, wasn’t a Nett 64 impressive! That winning score came from the ‘flashing blades’ of Troy-Murphy, who took home the A-Grade prize AND the September Monthly-Medal.

Good shooting, Troy!

But we can’t ignore the most improved Junior at Warburton, at the moment, young tyro, Manny-Humphris!

Manny took home the B-Grade voucher with a Nett 69, as his handicap is ever-decreasing. (Now

down to 25,from 29, in a matter of weeks, leaving Dad way behind!)

Shane-Ford also had a slashing Nett 66, but he had to be content with the daily runner-up prize because he is also in A-Grade along with his mate, Mr. Murphy.

Ironically, the ball rundown extended way down to Nett 76, the lowest it’s been for some time during a medal round.

All five NTPs on offer were claimed by these clever golfers: Jack-Gallagher, (an Eastern G.C. visitor, on the 3rd), Pete-Fox, (5th), Rob-Ferguson, (9th), Troy-Murphy, ( again, on the 12th) and finally to Dale-Horrobin, (15th).

Monbulk, Mt Evelyn win A grade netball semi-finals

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Football Premier Division (Semi Finals)

• Seniors: 2SF Wandin 13.8.86 def OlindaFerny Creek 9.11.65; 1SF Woori Yallock 9.13.67 def Monbulk 5.11.41

• Reserves: 2SF Mt. Evelyn 5.5.35 def UpweyTecoma 4.7.31; 1SF Officer 7.9.51 def Wandin 6.8.44

• Under 18: 2SF Mt. Evelyn 9.2.56 def Officer 2.5.17; 1SF Olinda-Ferny Creek 9.5.59 def Wandin 7.6.48

• Division 1 (Preliminary Finals)

• Seniors: Warburton-Millgrove 19.11.125 def Pakenham 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 WarburtonMillgrove 12

Saturday turns on weather for Upper Yarra poles clinic

By Anita Prowse

Well, how good was the weather Saturday?

A gorgeous day for the Poles Clinic at Upper Yarra Pony Club. Testing some skill levels and learning helpful tools of the trade. Well done everyone!

On a heavier note, we are unfortunately having a lot of complaints coming in about disrespectful people using the Park, we need to acknowledge that many people don’t comprehend the Risk Management Policies that our clubs have to deal with, and that their actions directly jeopardize the Club’s relevant insurances, but common sense and courtesy go a long way in this world.

Constant dogs off lead in Equestrian area and

cyclists and motorbikes just flying through with complete disdain for anyone riding their horses.

One more time I will say it .....the Equestrian area is NOT an off lead dog park, is NOT part of the mountain bike trail, is NOT a drone zone and is NOT a motorcycle track.

Please anyone with any issues from any party, call or email Yarra Ranges Council and if you are ever worried for your immediate safety do not hesitate in calling 000.

Happy and Safe riding everyone!!

Great weekend for the riders - a gorgeous day for the Poles Clinic at Upper Yarra Pony Club. (Supplied)

Johnathon Hevern of Monbulk marks against Woori Yallock. (Anthea Heagney)

SPORT Hurricanes claim the Cup

By Sarah Bailey

The U16 Hurricanes rounded off a triumphant year with a Cup win against Berwick on the last weekend of the season.

Healesville U16 Hurricanes 3–0 Berwick

United

A sunny spring morning at Guy Turner Reserve set the stage for the Cup final between the Hurricanes and Berwick United.

Kendi L-T set the tone early with her physical presence up front, unsettling Berwick and opening up chances.

Isla C struck from distance, and Mahlea D was on hand to finish at the back post – her third goal in as many games.

Kendi then netted twice before the break to give the Hurricanes full control, making it backto-back braces for her and confirming her as best on ground.

With the game all but decided, the second half was about enjoying the occasion.

Healesville continued to dominate and create opportunities without adding to the scoreline.

At the back, Summer C was composed and steady, while Isla kept the midfield ticking with her passing and vision.

With families on the sideline to celebrate, the Hurricanes lifted the Cup and brought more silverware back to the club.

Healesville Firsts 0–4 Gideon’s Warriors

In a final-round blockbuster Healesville needed to win to take home the title.

Unfortunately, three first-half errors from the Reds meant the game never quite lived up to the hype.

Needing four second-half goals, Healesville pushed players forward but left gaps at the back and were caught on the break with 15 minutes to go by a wonderful goal.

After a fantastic season Healesville have gained promotion and will play in the top tier of the competition next year.

Healesville Women’s Premiers 4–4 Rowville Healesville went two up in 10 minutes through some great attacking play, Tess getting both, with one coming from a beautiful through ball from Ruby.

The young, talented Rowville side started to get their groove on when they got one back through a cross turned shot, which went in with a bit of help from the wind.

Their second came from a corner soon after, and it was 2–2 at half time.

In the second half the team tightened up the midfield and put some serious pressure on Rowville.

Tess sealed her hat trick, and the team demonstrated some superb play.

Kiah showed composure to pick out a deadly pass for the assist.

Rowville then scored two great long-range efforts in five minutes to leave Healesville stunned at 4–3 down.

As has been the way all year, the team kept going. Chance after chance came until Kiah put in a beautiful first-time shot to make it 4–4.

Healesville Reserves 1–1 Gideon’s Warriors Reserves

After a tough season stepping up a few leagues, Healesville started the last game with purpose and determination.

Gideon’s scored an unlikely goal after a mix-up between Healesville’s defence and keeper.

Healesville started the stronger in the second half, creating more chances, but still couldn’t convert.

But just when you thought it was going to be one of those days, cometh the hour, cometh the man: Healesville Wolves coach, aspiring novelist and all-round cracking bloke Joe ‘Magoo’ McLachlan got on the end of a poor Gideon’s clearance and launched a 30-yard bullet that found the back of the net to even things up.

Healesville dominated the rest of the game but couldn’t quite break through for the win they truly deserved.

Healesville U12 White Wolves 4–1 Blackburn Stingrays

A nervous start saw the Stingrays deliver the first blow through a penetrating run down the right, crossed into the box and finished well by the Stingray forward.

Determination found its way into the Wolves’ game when Robbie K dribbled sharply through the centre, cutting and weaving in true Robbie fashion, to get himself into range and clout the ball on his right foot.

The Blackburn keeper was left with absolutely no hope as the ball hit the net.

It was 1–1 at the break, but the Wolves again hit their stride to force an infringement inside the box, Robbie converting the penalty with authority.

From there the momentum was too great for the Stingrays as Healesville’s confidence soared.

Jono H added another goal to his impressive season in the chaos created up forward.

The pièce de resistance was to still to come.

Battle-weary Austin A, who has had a mountain of injuries to climb out of all year but never complains, was perfectly placed in the box from yet another exceptional Robbie K corner kick to punctuate the season with a brilliant header.

Healesville U12 White Diamonds 3–2 Blackburn The Diamonds upped the ante with Emmelia firing up and using her strength to push the ball through midfield into deep attack with Keely running fast alongside.

After two quick goals by Emmelia, the team could breathe a bit.

For the next 20 minutes the game felt like it was all the Diamonds’ way.

Several shots on goal by Evie just went wide. Annabelle, Audrey and Maddie were also getting right up into striking positions, but it was Elodie who managed to sneak one in on the left-hand post.

Up 3–0, the Diamonds all wanted a chance to score.

Their defence was a little open later in the second half, which allowed two Blackburn goals to sneak through.

The Diamonds responded by stacking more players into defence and managed to hold out for the win.

Healesville U10 Red Storm 5–3 Lilydale Growing as players throughout the season, Red Storm displayed great teamwork to defeat Lilydale. Healesville U10 Falcons 2–1 Berwick

The Falcons finished the season with a bang, taking the lead through Colton and securing it with an Ethan S goal.

In the second half Healesville could have extended their lead if it wasn’t for the Berwick keeper pulling off a good save.

Berwick then got a goal back and put more pressure on trying to get the equaliser, but some great goalkeeping from Ethan S saw the Falcons run out winners.

Healesville U8 White Pumas 2–1 Lilydale Red

On 14 June 1998 in Salt Lake City, with the last shot of the game, Michael Jordan clinched the NBA championship for a sixth time for the Chicago Bulls.

In doing so he put the icing on the cake for one of the greatest teams in sporting history before its impending split.

A parallel can be drawn between the legendary Bulls of the 1990s and the 2025 season of the White Pumas.

If this team of little legends never plays together

again, the last two minutes at Morrisons Reserve on 6 September will be forever etched in their memories.

A strong wind favoured Healesville in the first half, and they looked to capitalise with repeat shots on goal.

The most spectacular moment nearly took place when James footkicked in from his position in goal, narrowly missing the goal at the opposite end.

Eventually the deadlock was broken, and Healesville went into the break 1–0 up.

The second half was a titanic struggle, with both teams having many close shots.

The impenetrable wall of the Healesville defence was broken and Lilydale equalised.

From here on the Healesville parents became an extra player, cheering with delirium.

And so it was that the MJ moment arrived. In the last play of the day, Campbell found himself with the ball and only the goalie in his way.

As time slowed, he coolly dispatched the ball past the keeper into the bottom of the net.

Thirty seconds later, the final whistle blew.

Other results:

• Healesville U12 Panthers 3–4 Northern Eagles

• Goals: Sem, Ryan

• Healesville U11 Ninjas 0–2 Knox Force

Regardless of the result, Yarra Glen U18 boys fight hard

By David Ball

The Yarra Glen Under 18s did themselves proud by making the preliminary final at Yarra Junction on Saturday 6 September.

Coming up against a very accomplished team in Seville, it was always going to be a major challenge for the boys.

Seville started brilliantly, winning centre clearances and with sure ball handling and precise passing they sliced their way through the Yarra Glen defence to have seven goals to nil early in the second quarter.

The Yarra Glen boys continued with greater intensity for the balance of the second quarter and started to win more contest and connect when going forward to nail two goals for the quarter.

Seville came out in the third to once again win centre clearances and convert.

Their kicking for goal was impeccable as they kicked five straight for the quarter.

The River Pigs were competitive in general play but could not convert with the same efficiency as the Blues.

Being well down at three quarter time with

no chance of winning it was great to see the Yarra boys continue to battle hard.

With all players across the ground continuing to compete hard they were able to add three goals for the quarter and outscore Seville in the last quarter.

The final scores were Yarra Glen 6.5 to Seville 19.4.

Best Players, Sam Gloury, Brody Ricco, Jake Ferris, Alastair Lowrie, John Pavic, Xavier Bosua. Goalkickers, Lachlan Rutherford 1,Alastair Lowrie, John Pavic 1, Hunter Grenfell 1, Tom Dowling, Callum Sanders 1.

The final scores were Yarra Glen 6.5 to Seville 19.4. (File)

Cup victory: the U16 Hurricanes and coach Glen Stevenson. (Supplied)

Red Storm defeated Lilydale 5–3 in the last round of the season.

The U10 Falcons defeated Berwick 2–1.

The U12 White Wolves and coach Joe McLachlan.

Magic Mullet seals the deal

The Healesville Recreation Reserve was buzzing on Saturday as Wandin booked their place in the grand final with a hard-fought win over Olinda in the second semi-final.

Wandin edged out Olinda by 13.8 (86) to 9.11 (65), in a contest that swung dramatically before the Dogs found their edge in the final term.

From the outset, Olinda’s patient ball control was on display, moving the footy with precision and forcing Wandin to defend for long periods. But Wandin’s trademark rebound from halfback continually opened up the game, giving their forwards dangerous looks inside 50.

Midway through the third quarter, Wandin appeared poised to blow the game wide open. Their quick transition and superior efficiency in attack had Olinda scrambling. But a stunning response—led by the class of Daniel Toma—swung momentum back the Bloods’ way, and they held a slender four-point lead at the final change.

The last quarter, however, belonged to wandin Despite Olinda’s brave effort and periods of control, they couldn’t find enough scoreboard impact to capitalise on their dominance. Wandin’s efficiency inside 50, led by Aaron Mullet who was the difference on the day with a eight superb goals, was the story of the day.

The Dogs now march into the grand final full of confidence, while Olinda will need to regroup quickly as they look to keep their season alive through the preliminary final.

(Stacey Sullivan)

Two Burras’ teams win preliminary finals to advance

By Alex Woods

Preliminary finals have arrived.

The Warburton-Millgrove Football Netball Club (WMFNC) still had all netball teams in and the senior footy.

The day took place at Yarra Junction and started with the 17 and Under Netball.

The team had a tough game ahead against a strong Pakenham side.

The Burras were four goals down at the first break, the second quarter Pakenham took more control having a 16-7 half time lead.

Unfortunately, the game was Pakenham’s as they claimed a 35-12 win.

The team had a great year and will only continue to get stronger.

D Grade were on next in hopes to secure a grand final spot.

They game as close throughout, only being a couple of goals behind Pakenham.

Heading into the last, the Burras only trailed by two goals.

They put on a show throughout the game but unfortunately, Pakenham secured the win by three goals.

36-33 was the final score. Another great season completed for the D Grade team.

C Grade took the court next, taking on Seville. Seville were a strong side and got an early jump on the Burra girls. Half time was 24-12 but the Burras kept fighting throughout the game. The final score was 45-28 and Seville took the win.

A Grade had a tough battle ahead of them with Pakenham.

Burras had a great start having a four goal lead at the first break and five goals at the half time break.

They displayed such great netball and the game could have been anyone’s.

Pakenham fought back and got a couple goals lead but the Burras reclaimed it.

As the last few minutes continued, the Burras secured a few more goals to get a safe distance between them.

The siren sounded and the Burras had secured a Grand Final spot. 38-43 was the final score.

B Grade finished off the netball for the day, also taking on Pakenham. Another strong start

for Pakenham, having a 24-15 half time score.

B Grade put up a good fight but unfortunately, Pakenham had secured the win and the last grand final spot for Netball. 50-32 was the final score.

The senior footy now took the field.

They were also taking on Pakenham to secure their grand final spot.

The team made the grand final last year, but unfortunately Healesville got the win.

The Burras were now looking for redemption.

After a bad day last weekend, the Burras were looking to regain their momentum and bring back their style of footy.

The boys managed to kick 5.3 to Pakenham 1.2 and they had a solid start to the game.

They managed to keep Pakenham to one goal in the second quarter and secured another three for themselves, they went into half time with a 55-18 lead.

The burras put on a show in the third quarter, securing another seven goals and two behinds, to Pakenham’s three goals.

The Burras went into the last quarter with good feeling and positivity.

A 99-36 score going into the last, Pakenham secured a few more goals but the Burras lead

was comfortable and they also secured four in the last quarter. 19.11-125 to 12.8-80 was the final score and the Burra boys secured the position.

Aaron Mullet who was the difference on the day with a eight superb goals, was the story of the day.

Both Seniors and A Grade take on Seville next weekend. With A Grade looking to go a four-peat and Senior gaining their first flag since 2006.

The Burras faced off against Pakenham coming out victorious. (Gary Sissons: 501160)

Both teams put everything on the line for that grand final spot. (501160)