What a year!
By Oliver Winn
Yarra Valley ECOSS marked the completion of two major upgrades to its farm with a sausage sizzle and certificate presentation on 9 December.
The upgrades were new asphalted pathways to improve accessibility and five business incubator hubs to host local sustainable and ethical businesses.
Yarra Valley ECOSS executive officer Chelsea McNab said the program’s participants (made up of people living with disabilities and their support workers) helped seal the farm’s pathways so they could be accessible to all.
“Now that’s here, we’re really excited to welcome more people with not only wheelchairs, but also prams and walking aides and for all ages and abilities. It feels really good to be able to be more accessible,” Ms McNab said.
The volunteers had their hard work recognised with a certificate presentation. Each and every recipient beamed with pride as they received their awards.
Turn to page 17 to read more
Banned or not?
By Gabriella Vukman
With the Federal Government’s social media ban officially in place as of 10 December, local youth are quickly adapting their platform usage, albeit not in ways that were expected.
With the purpose of shielding Australia’s youth from social harm and promoting real world experience, the ban was enacted under the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024 and officially came into force on 10 December.
The new legislation maintains that all age-
restricted social media platforms must “take reasonable steps to prevent Australians under the age of 16 from creating or keeping an account.”
Platforms that were required to take action to ban users under the age of 16 from their services included Tik Tok, Instagram, Snapchat, X, Youtube, Facebook and Reddit, among other platforms.
Since its recent implementation, the strength of the social media ban itself has been inconsistent, with many youth under the age of 16 retaining access to some or all of the above listed plat-
forms, while others have lost access.
Healesville High School student Paige, 14, is yet to be kicked off any of the social media platforms she uses.
“Most people have found a way around the ban,” Paige said.
“I still have access to all of my social media platforms,” she said.
Despite retaining her access to social media, Paige confirmed that her screentime habits have changed since the ban.
“My social media use is probably the same, ex-
cept some of my friends have been kicked off so I am not doing as much on social media because I can’t interact with them on there,” Paige said.
“I am only talking to a couple of friends on Snapchat now,” she said.
Hills High School Student Eliza, 15, has been able to navigate around the ban in a similar fashion.
“When I first heard about the ban, I thought it wouldn’t actually happen,” Eliza said
“I thought it wasn’t real,” she said. To keep reading, head to page 7
The volunteers celebrated with glee as they received their certificates. (Oliver Winn: 524302)
Iconic church demolished
By Oliver Winn
The Warburton community has lost an iconic institution after the old Warburton Sacred Heart Catholic Church building was demolished on Monday 8 December.
Upper Yarra Valley Historical Society (UYVHS) president John Bramley said it was a big loss for the Warburton community.
“Personally I think it’s a shame, especially seeing that the building I believe could have been saved and possibly moved elsewhere, it was a shame to see it go,” he said.
The church held its final mass on 12 April before it was closed down by the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne, which prompted a petition, gathering 896 signatures as of publication.
“For over a century, since its establishment in 1912, this cherished church has served as a cornerstone of spiritual and community life. Its impending closure, sale, and demolition threatens to tear the heart out of our community and erase a precious part of our shared heritage,” the petition read.
Warburton locals expressed their shock and dismay on Facebook.
“What a disgrace it is to demolish such a blessed place of worship that has been in our town for over 150 years. I am so sad to watch my beautiful town being vandalised,” local Marian McDonald commented.
“It was our intention to use the building for people with hardships. Fr. Cerini would have been pleased about that.It never reached fruition.
Without any warning, to us, it was sold,” she said in her comment.
A letter showed the permit to demolish the building which was issued on 19 November.
Warburton local Robert Windsor submitted an article to the Star Mail in November sharing the story of one of the church’s most cherished pastors, Father Charles Cerini.
“The archdiocese sent Fr Cerini to Warburton to become their Parish Priest. The Sacred Heart Parish was based in Warburton, covered a large area, butwasrelativelypoor.Theparishneededaschool, so he built one. The nuns needed a covenant, so he built one,” Mr Windsor wrote in his article.
Mr Bramley said the reasons for why the church was demolished were unclear.
“I haven’t heard the reasons for it. I know there’s different conjecture and stuff like that. I really don’t know. I don’t know if the building was unsafe or what it may have been.”
He said there should’ve been a “complete heritage overlay” for the building.
“It’s been around for many many years. It probably should have had an overlay because of the age of the building. Of course, there was a church and lots of different congregations, so there’s a lot of feelings there.”
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Yarra Valley Christadelphians PO Box 516 YARRA GLEN 3775 Email: yvc.vic@gmail.com
The church was demolished on 8 December. (Oliver Winn: 524457)
The church before it was destroyed. (Derek Flannery, Churches Australia)
Animal cruelty here
By Callum Ludwig
The Yarra Ranges has been singled out as a hotspot for animal cruelty in the RSPCA’s annual Animal Cruelty Report for 2024/25.
The Yarra Ranges had the second-highest number of animals seized or surrendered of any local government area, only behind Casey.
Chief Inspector Michelle Green said RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectors respond to animal cruelty throughout Victoria every day of the year.
“Right across the state, there’s been an increase in animal cruelty reports as the drought, cost-of-living crisis and mental health struggles of Victorians continues to rise,” she said.
“In particular, reports of animal hoarding situations rose 48 per cent in the last financial year, and these cases often see large numbers of animals suffering from neglect.”
In total, 108 animals were rescued by the RSPCA in the Yarra Ranges in 2024/25, with 1870 seizures or surrenders statewide. The total statewide figure was down by 16.89 per cent from 2250 the year before, but the Yarra Ranges figure was greater than each of the two previous years (25 in 23/24 and 57 in 22/23).
RSPCA Inspectorate Team Leaderfor the North-East (which covers the Yarra Ranges) Belinda Dent said there was 543 animals from the north-east seized by, or surrendered to, RSPCA Inspectors.
“The majority of what we deal with is not malicious cruelty, but neglect stemming from financial stress, poor access to feed, or personal
challenges like mental health issues,” she said.
“These situations are incredibly complex, and our job is to balance enforcing animal welfare laws with helping people do better by their pets.
“Wherever possible, my team and I try to support owners before things reach a crisis point. This may be providing emergency pet food, bedding or kennels, or helping with preventative flea and worming treatments.”
A total of 270 reports were received in the Yarra Ranges in 2024/25, accounting for 1.69 reports per 1000 residents.
Ms Dent said sometimes, the animals’ owners recognise their animal’s well-being is at risk and choose to surrender their animal into their care, while sometimes, they need to step in and seize their animal.
“Other cases involved households simply being overwhelmed by the number of animals they had taken in,” she said.
“In the north-east region, we are continually seeing unwanted litters due to animals not being desexed, leaving owners struggling to meet the demands of providing basic care for many, vulnerable young animals.
“We’re extremely fortunate to work closely with local police and councils, and this support helps us to care for the community and their pets.”
In 2024/25, more than 10,000 animal cruelty reports were made by members of the public, with 1,870 animals being seized by or surrendered to RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectorate, almost double the number of animals seized or surren-
dered ten years ago.
Reports of horses facing cruelty were one of the biggest changes, with a 32 per cent increase in cruelty reports involving horses (1197 reports) and a 23 per cent increase in the number of horses seized or surrendered (209 horses).
The top types of cruelty reports were insufficient food, water or shelter (7916 reports, up 43.3 per cent), a husbandry issue (3936 reports, down 7.1 per cent) and underweight animal reports (3051 reports, up 22.28 per cent).
Ms Green said they encourage people to educate themselves on how to properly manage and care for their animals and to seek help before animals suffer.
“Our Inspectors are seeing basic animal neglect much more often than malicious cruelty, this includes animals with insufficient food, water and shelter, and those who are underweight,” she said.
“Part of this neglect are also husbandry concerns such as farrier attention, shearing and living conditions – particularly on hobby farms and acreage properties where they have livestock to maintain properties.
“When they can, our Inspectors can help with emergency pet food to struggling households, along with providing a range of other supports such as including donated kennels or bedding for pets and preventative flea and worming treatments.”
Anyone who has witnessed animal cruelty or has concerns about an animal’s welfare, please contact 03 9224 2222 or rspcavic.org/who-to-call
We’re taking a break - see you next year!
The Star Mail team wishes all our wonderful readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We sincerely thank you for your incredible support throughout 2025 and for being so willing to share your valuable stories with our community.
Please note, our offices will be closed from 22 December to 5 January while our staff take a much-needed break. Newspapers will not be published during this time. Look out for our first exciting edition of 2026 on Tuesday 6 January!
Collision at Wandin North petrol station
A collision in Wandin North resulted in a man being taken to hospital on 8 December.
A ute and a motorcyclist collided at the SOLO petrol station at about 12.20pm.
“The motorcyclist, a 21-year-old man, was transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
“The driver of the ute, a 26-year-old male, was not injured,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said.
The 26-year-old was issued a penalty notice for failing to give way.
Ambulance Victoria paramedics attended the scene.
“Advanced Life Support (ALS) paramedics and Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) paramedics assessed and treated one patient at the scene.
“One male patient in his 20’s was transported by road ambulance to Maroondah Hospital with lower body injuries in a stable condition,” an Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said.
Three charged following Lilydale incident
Three teenage males have been arrested and charged following an alleged false imprisonment and armed robbery that took place in Lilydale on Monday afternoon.
Detectives from the Yarra Ranges Crime Investigation Unit (CIU) apprehended the trio after executing several search warrants on Tuesday 9 December, in connection with the incident.
Police allege that the victim, an 18-year-old male, was taken to a residential address in Lilydale where he was held against his will and assaulted for a period of time.
The victim was then allegedly moved to a local building site, where he was further assaulted.
The subsequent police operation on Tuesday led to the discovery of a number of significant items.
During the execution of the search warrants, detectives located and seized a number of exhibits, cash, drugs and weapons.
A 15-year-old male and a 17-year-old male from the Yarra Ranges, and a 15-year-old male from the Knox area were arrested and have been remanded into custody to appear at the Children’s Court at a later date.
Investigations continue into the incident, and anyone with information is urged to contact Yarra Ranges CIU on 9739 2401.
RSPCA Inspectorate North-East Team Leader Belinda Dent. (Supplied)
Review for erosion plan
By Callum Ludwig
The Yarra Ranges Council’s Erosion Management Overlay (EVO) was back in the spotlight at the Tuesday 9 December council meeting, sparking a lengthy debate.
The EMO of the Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme was only last revised in March 2024, having been brought to the spotlight following multiple landslips across the region since 2021.
A landslide in McCrae in January this year also caused concern for many councils, with Mornington Peninsula Shire Council accused in a Board of Inquiry report of only taking “limited actions” to reduce landslide risk.
Montrose resident of 30 years and former Monbulk MP Steve McArthur spoke at the meeting to object to the amendment and said it is an important issue for the thousands of families who own houses in the area and are therefore greatly affected by whatever decision is made.
“The Coffey Partners report into landslip had been published just before we bought our home, I took the time to check that the property was not in the new landslip zone prior to purchase,” he said.
“It was not – if it had been, we would not have bought it, you can bet that future buyers will take a similar approach to this overlay.
“Since that time there have been two additional reviews into the matter, each time the expert consultants employed to advise Council delivered essentially the same message…they adopt a risk-phobic strategy as they do not ever want to be accused of failing to issue sufficient warning.”
In his speech, Mr McArthur compared the panic to the infamous ‘Y2K’ issue, the prediction of computer errors based on the formatting and storage of calendar data for dates in and after the year 2000, which were predicted to cause widespread issues or failures for computers around the world.
Mr McArthur chaired a Parliamentary inquiry into Victoria’s preparedness for Y2K and said there were probably some incidents, but the experts vastly overestimated its impact.
“That is their nature and it works for them, it protects them from accusations of dereliction of duty and it often guarantees more commissions and none of them are cheap,” he said.
“If you approve (Amendment) C225 it will significantly impact thousands of families – 3259 according to WSP Golder, they are all families who live in and love the area.
“In future they will face the threat of planning blight – that is to say, they may continue to live in their home but will be greatly restricted in what they can do with it, should they need to repair it or wish to extend it, for many due to the C225 overlay, the barriers they face will be insurmountable, due either to cost or practicality.”
Previous mapping of landslide risk was handdrawn for the creation of the EMO in the 1990s but the council recently had mapping done with advanced three-dimensional mapping technology, named Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), to accurately identify landslip-prone areas in Yarra Ranges.
13,724 properties will be affected by the amendment: for 937 properties the EMO will no longer apply to, 10,168 landslide-susceptible properties will continue to be affected, 3259 properties will be newly considered susceptible
properties), 209 properties will continue to be affected by debris flow susceptibility and 290 more will now be considered at-risk of debris flow.
Director of Planning, Design and Development Kath McCluskey fielded questions from councillors and said the panel process that they’ll set up will allow every submitter to present their views to the panel.
“If community members want to provide their own expert evidence, they can also do that, council will present all the submissions, so every written submission gets referred in and if we receive submissions after today, they will also be referred into the panel,” she said.
“What I might also say is when the bushfire controls came in, they were just put in, there was no panel that was established to hear submissions from community, it was unilaterally applied, this gives community opportunity to present those views.
“I would suspect in this case we’ll have a three-person panel that will have technical expertise, and they will also consider the impact on community as well, as well as looking at what are the mitigation measures that can be put in place.”
Yarra Ranges Council received 84 submissions to the amendment prior to the meeting: one supported the amendment, one supported and requested a change, four stated no objection to the amendment, two critiqued the methodology used, eight had no position and 68 opposed the amendment and/or have sought changes or review of the mapped extent.
Ms McCluskey was also asked whether residents will face barriers to building, repairing and development, what risks the council faces by not
acting and why the decision has to g to an independent planning panel.
“Each site will be assessed on its own merits, for a lot of proposals there will be an engineering solution, however, there may be some properties that may not ever be able to be built on,” she said.
“We’ve got properties that could otherwise be removed from the EMO that are no longer in an EMO, we equally have properties that may have landscape risk, that may develop without the right controls in place.
“Under the Planning and Environment Act, once we go through an amendment process, we must consider all submissions where we can’t resolve them and in this instance, we’ve had many community members say we don’t want to be included in the erosion management overlay for a number of reasons, we just can’t resolve them, so we have to, under the Act, refer them into an independent planning power.”
Concerns raised by residents included opposition to the mapping itself, the methodology of mapping, impact on insurance cover, impact on property values, impact on future development and permit applications, the consultation process, property rates, stormwater and drainage issues and compensation or buyback schemes for undevelopable land.
O’Shannassy Ward councillor Jim Child said he thinks the council did the appropriate thing after the June 2021 storms by doing another assessment of the issue.
“I support the recommendation because of the journey that we’ve been on with this significant issue, which really stems back from the time that Councillor (Fiona) McAllister was
Mayor of this municipality and through the horrendous event up in the Dandenongs in 2021,” he said.
“What really highlights it even more now is what was mentioned earlier in regards to the McCrae landslide, being Mayor this year, I was actually contacted by the chair of that investigation, who actually asked the amount of significant work that we’ve already done and praised us for that work.
“The risk, as a person, I just could not see us take that risk, we have to do this body of work and this amendment will keep people and property safe by preventing inappropriate development.”
Where considered appropriate, submissions were referred to Council’s geotechnical consultant for a further review which can be read at yarraranges.moderngov.com.au/documents/s24299/Attachment%202&percn t;20-%20Geotechnical%20analysis%20of%20submissions.pdf
In some cases, onsite assessments were carried out as a result of submissions, which resulted in the properties removed from the EMO in areas in Upwey, Tecoma, Belgrave and Chirnside Park as well as isolated locations around Mount Dandenong and Olinda.
Ryrie Ward councillor Fiona McAllister, Lyster Ward councillor Peter McIlwain, Billanook Ward councillor Tim Heenan and Streeton Ward councillor Jeff Marriott also all spoke in support of the motion, while Melba Ward councillor Mitch Mazzarella encouraged anyone with concerns to submit as part of the planning panel process and have their voice heard.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Recent landslip events have sparked continued fear of inadequate erosion management. (File: 420079)
Council fights purple bin
By Tanya Steele
The ‘damn purple bin’ was under the lens at the last council meeting, with the rollout of a glass-only recycling bin still a question mark for residents in the Yarra Ranges.
Mandatory glass recycling for the community was given a thumbs down by the Yarra Ranges Council at its recent meeting on Tuesday 9 December.
In what was considered an expected move, councillors moved a motion not to support the State Government’s imposed mandatory glass service as it is now, due to the burden and cost it would pass on to the community.
The motion includes calling upon the State Government to permit other options and pause the rollout.
Yarra Ranges cited the lack of release on the State’s service standards as part of the reason for the call.
“I believe that mandatory glass recycling does not suit our communities,” Melba Ward Councillor Mitch Mazzarella said.
“Giving every household another bin and passing on the cost of the service to the rate payer is not the right approach to take.”
The motion also supported continued support and efforts between Yarra Ranges and other Victorian councils to take on the State Policy on the matter.
The 2020 Recycling Victoria: A new Economy Policy and the Circular Economy (Waste Reduction and Recycling) Act 2021 requires councils to provide residents with a fourstream waste collection service, including a separate glass service by 2027 and food organics and garden organics by 2030.
The council had previously deferred the glass bin addition in July 2024 until July 2026 and then deferred it again to 2027 with the announcement of the 2025/26 budget.
Concerned with the way the service would be delivered and the cost to ratepayers, councillors discussed several factors, from poor
uptakes reported by other councils who have already adopted the bin, to changes in recycling as a whole and the ongoing effects of the Container Deposit Scheme.
“To be clear, I’m not opposed to having some form of glass recycling available for ratepayers – a drop-off point would be the better option,” Cr Mazzarella said.
“Rate payers don’t want it, can’t afford it and won’t use it.”
Billanook Cr Tim Heenan advocated for the aged care services in his area and said they were already struggling with three bins, along with the need to pursue the expansion of the CDS to include jars and wine bottles.
“I sincerely hope they’ll come to their senses this time and not want to implement this useless purple bin for the collection of glass,” he said.
Looking at the cost to the consumer versus the producers of waste in the larger recycling landscape, Lyster Ward Councillor Peter Mcilwain said he predicted new technology would also be a major influence.
Pointing out issues with broken glass in the yellow recycling bins, Walling Ward Cr Len Cox OAM said that the separation into a new bin would improve the quality of all the recyclables and did not support the motion.
“I think there ought to be some work done on how to get around, recycling the glass separately,” he said.
Detailed reports are available on the matter within the council’s agenda, and state that since the introduction of the CDS, the amount of glass collected in kerbside garbage bins in the Yarra Ranges has remained stable whereas the amount of glass in recycling bins has re-
duced significantly.
Audits of resident’s kerbside garbage and recycling bins from before and after the CDS came in on November 2023, show a 15 per cent decrease in the amount of total glass collected in recycling bins, as well as movement of eligible glass containers out of the kerbside system. However, some community members have also been throwing glass into their garbage bins.
Yarra Ranges, along with other councils that don’t comply with the State’s plans, are at risk for not complying with the legislation, but they are not alone, with 31 other Victorian Councils actively working to postpone the mandatory implementation for councils to provide a glass-only bin service to households. The motion passed with all in favour except for Cr Cox.
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Glass bin recycling has been deferred by Yarra Ranges Council. (Online).
Special charge for sealing
By Callum Ludwig
The sealing of a Yarra Valley road will go ahead after Yarra Ranges Council declared a special charges scheme at the Tuesday 9 December council meeting.
From 8 Arthurs Road to 65 Arthurs Road in Chum Creek will be sealed through the project, having started from a landowner petition in November 2020.
Ryrie Ward councillor Fiona McAllister said this one is a good news story.
“It went into a bit of a hiatus with Covid and a range of things and certainly with the support of officers and some of the residents was reactivated probably about 12 months ago,” she said.
“We’re at the point now after surveying the residents in the statutory public notice and submission periods, that there was only one submission raising concerns.
“There has been very strong community support, particularly from a couple of individuals for a very long time, both for safety reasons but also dust with some health impacts and some houses, so it’s great to see that we’re getting to this point.”
A November 2021 survey saw 18 out of 20 landowners respond and of those 14 (78 per cent) supported the proposed Special Charge Scheme and four (22 per cent) opposed the proposal.
Only one submission was made following the Council’s decision to levy a special charges scheme in October.
“At the time of the questionnaire… I myself supported the project. I now withdraw my support due to the following reasons,” the submission reads.
“4 years have passed since the initial contact, several properties have changed owners and a review/contact may be necessary, covid lockdowns occurred… I note financial distress for myself, 12 interest rate rises over a 12-month period, cost of living has increased from 2021, energy costs are forecast to increase putting added pressure to cost of living, 4.24 per cent per annum is an estimate and is not fixed.
“In summary I believe the cost outweighs the reward.”
Yarra Ranges Council’s contribution is estimated at $161,000 (38 per cent), with landowners funding $257,304 (62 per cent) of the road con-
struction costs while the Council will also cover the $85,660 for longitudinal drainage within the new drainage easement. The total cost of the project is estimated at $503,903 and 18 landowners will pay $17,210 in total over ten years, with two properties with less benefit paying $1033.
The council’s response to the submission said over the past four years, Council has provided regular project updates to landowners along Ar-
thurs Road, including the most recent information on estimated costs and submission rights.
“The financing rate at the time of declaring a Special Charge (currently 4.24%) will remain unchanged for the 10-year instalment period,” it reads.
“It is acknowledged that some landowners may experience financial hardship, and the proposed contribution could add to this challenge.
However, the Special Charge provides a longterm benefit to the property, not just the current owner, and is therefore apportioned based on the benefit received rather than individual circumstances.
“Landowners experiencing financial hardship may apply for assistance under Council’s Rate Recovery and Financial Hardship Policy, where options for payment will be discussed.”
‘Clear, modern rules’ for roadside and footpath trading
By Oliver Winn
The Yarra Ranges Council freshened up its rules around roadside and public trading at the 9 December council meeting to better reflect modern day expectations.
Since 2010, the council’s Streets and Roadside Trading Policy has provided management guidelines for the businesses trading in public spaces such as footpaths and roadsides.
But, an increase in food trucks and changes to Australian disability access laws prompted council to replace the old policy with two separate policies: the Roadside and Public Place Trading Policy 2025 and Footpath Trading Policy 2025.
O’Shannassy Ward councillor Jim Child said the new policies clarified the guidelines
around pedestrian accessibility for businesses trading in public areas.
“We’ve got to consider the appropriate uses of footpaths and how people will actually display items on footpaths so people with disabilities can actually travel on those footpaths or trail accesses.
“The policy has served us well in previous years. It is the time to review it, of course, and I believe the minor changes that have been made serve us well,” Cr Child said.
The Footpath Trading Policy provides businesses that utilise an area of a footpath clearer expectations to follow when it comes to pedestrian access.
For example, a restaurant with outdoor dining on a footpath has clear guidelines on where it can place signage and tables without
blocking pedestrian flow.
The number of roadside trading permits for food trucks have nearly doubled from 15 to 28 since 2010, which prompted better clarification surrounding the rules for roadside traders.
This included similar guidelines surrounding signage and other elements such as appropriate clearances for parking and traffic.
Chandler Ward councillor Gareth Ward said the new policies provided “clear, modern rules” for businesses in the Yarra Ranges.
The council consulted with traders throughout November 2023 to March 2024, with further engagement being undertaken from 14 April to 18 May 2025 with the broader community.
The Disability Advisory Committee also approved of the changes.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Arthurs Road, Chum Creek is set for sealing. (Stewart Chambers: 523887)
The changes provided clearer guidelines for businesses trading
Youth respond to new ban
By Gabriella Vukman
On 10 December, the scrolls stopped as the digital curtain of the Federal Government’s social media ban fell into place.
With the Government’s social media ban officially in place as of 10 December, local youth are quickly adapting their platform usage, albeit not in ways that were expected.
With the purpose of shielding Australia’s youth from social harm and promoting real world experience, the ban was enacted under the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024.
The new legislation maintains that all age-restricted social media platforms must “take reasonable steps to prevent Australians under the age of 16 from creating or keeping an account.”
Social media services are defined as electronic services with the sole or primary purposes of enabling online social interaction between two or more users, and allow users to post material on their service according to the Online Safety Act.
Based on the above definition, platforms that were required to take action to ban users under the age of 16 from their services included Tik Tok, Instagram, Snapchat, X, Youtube, Facebook and Reddit, among other platforms.
Since its recent implementation, the strength of the social media ban itself has been inconsistent, with many youth under the age of 16 retaining access to some or all of the above listed platforms, while others have lost access.
Healesville High School student Paige, 14, is yet to be kicked off any of the social media platforms she uses.
“Most people have found a way around the ban,” Paige said.
“I still have access to all of my social media platforms.”
According to Paige, many of her platforms warned her that a ban was in store but have not taken any action to halt her accounts.
Paige said, “It might be because I have had the apps for a long time.”
“The platforms probably think I am older than I am,” she said.
Hard
Community members are encouraged to check their annual hard waste and bundled branches collection date, with collection times varying in the Yarra Valley for the 2026 collection.
The 2026 collection period will start later, from 27 January – to reduce roadside rubbish piles in the early new year and the Australia Day long weekend.
The order of collections in the region will also change.
Between January and March every year, each household in Yarra Ranges will have a scheduled collection of hard waste, metals, whitegoods and bundled branches.
Yarra Ranges mayor Cr Richard Higgins said that hard waste was an excellent way to safely dispose of and recycle electronic items, which aren’t allowed to go in wheelie bins.
“We know that when Christmas comes around, a lot of appliances and toys, tools and
While some of her friends lost access to Snapchat, Tik Tok and Instagram, Paige noted that there are ways to get around the ban.
“People can just make new accounts,” Paige said.
“A few of my friends have ended up making new Snapchat accounts and I think that is what everyone is doing,” she said.
“Some of my friends already had two accounts, so when they got kicked off one, they just used the other ones.”
Despite retaining access to her social media accounts, Paige notes that there have been some changes in her social media habits due to the absence of some of her friends who were locked out of the platforms.
“My social media use is probably the same, except some of my friends have been kicked off so I am not doing as much on social media because I can’t interact with them on there,” Paige said.
“I am only talking to a couple of friends on Snapchat now,” she said.
Paige noted that more education and social commentary surrounding bullying and online behaviour is needed in accompaniment with the ban.
“People are still bullying other people whether it is online or not,” Paige said.
For 15-year-old Hills High School Student Eliza, the ban was a proposal that she thought was unlikely to be followed through.
“When I first heard about the ban, I thought it wouldn’t actually happen,” Eliza said
“I thought it wasn’t real,” she said.
While Eliza believes the ban is necessary and a good idea, she suggested that the age limit should be lowered to 14.
Eliza also confirmed that her screentime habits have changed since she was banned from Instagram.
“Before the ban, I had a lot of online screentime, like a lot,” Eliza said.
Where Instagram was Eliza’s social media platform of choice, she described being frustrated at being removed from the app.
“I was annoyed about having screen time taken off me,” Eliza said.
“They should have given a warning two hours before, telling me that my account would shut down,” she said.
“For me, it came a day early, so it was a bit of a surprise.”
Despite her initial frustration at the suspension of her account, Eliza noted that it was not long until she was back on the app.
“It banned me and then within two hours, me and my friends found a way to get around it,” she said.
“It wasn’t hard.”
Eliza and her friends created new accounts with older dates of birth. She suspects that these accounts will be shut down in the near future.
Additionally, Eliza confirmed creating her new account did not require any identification, however identification was needed to validate her old account.
Both Paige and Eliza noted that neither of their schools educated their student cohorts on the Social Media ban, its purpose, function and potential effects.
According to a spokesperson from the ESafety Commission, “Australia’s social media minimum age obligations aim to protect young Australians from the pressures and risks associated with holding social media accounts.”
The source told Star Mail that the obligations include “features such as autoplay, endless content and algorithmically recommended content.”
“Such features, along with shortform video content may encourage excessive consumption without breaks and amplify exposure to harmful content,” the source said.
The eSafety Commission encourages users to appeal through the services provided on social media platforms if they believe the platform has made an error.
The recent changes under the recent age-cap legislation equip the eSafety Commission with information-gathering powers to require platforms to provide information relevant to their compliance with the social media minimum age obligation. This may include information about what steps platforms are taking to respond to circumvention.
Despite the ban itself not keeping youth under the age of 16 from social media, in some forms, the legislation is already a success, altering some social media habits and prompting much conversation about platform usage.
While the legislation has changed the screentime behaviours of some young Australians, the fact that many youth under the age of 16 still have access to social media contradicts the rules of the ban where, under Australian law, social media platforms and services must take significant steps to remove those under the age of 16 from their services.
WithmanyAustraliansundertheageof16still able to access social media, the eSafety Commission spokesperson said, “eSafety expects platforms to take steps that are evidence-based and responsive to emerging technology and risk.“
“While platforms are not required to eliminate all uncertainty, they should seek to minimise harm and work continuously to improve their age assurance methods. Our regulatory guidance for platforms makes it clear that we expect platforms to actively monitor and respond to changes in circumvention methods,“ they said. Researchers have begun analysing the effects of the social media ban and will continue to do so in the near future.
things around the house might get replaced,” Cr Higgins said.
“Anything that can be powered – by batteries or a cord – is classified as e-waste and can’t go in any wheelie bins. E-waste can contain hazardous materials such as lead and mercury that can harm the environment, as well as valuable materials such as copper that can be recycled.
“For a lot of residents, this means taking items to the tip, which has a fee. Dispose of these items for free in hard rubbish, and know that e-waste will be recycled or dealt with safely.
“The three cubic metres allowed in hard waste means you can put out the old washer or dryer, along with furniture or bulky items that aren’t repairable.”
Cr Higgins said that community members should always try to sell, donate or repair items before throwing them out.
“We find that, every year, items in good condition end up being put in hard waste, when they could have a new life being used by others. Bikes are a perfect example of this – places like UpCycles in Wesburn can repair old bikes, or take donations of parts to be used elsewhere,” he said.
“If items are in good condition, it’s best to see if they can be donated to a local charity or op shop, or given to someone in the community through Facebook marketplace or local groups.
“About 85 per cent of hard rubbish collected in 2025 couldn’t be recycled and had to be sent to landfill. If we take care to dispose of our items with re-use in mind, we can help prevent them going to waste with very little effort.”
Bundled branches, mattresses, metals, whitegoods, electronic waste – e.g. computers, televisions, monitors, all other battery and pow-
er-operated items and items with an electrical cord will be collected and sent for recycling. All other items will be disposed of in landfill. Household waste (such as soft plastics or bagged rubbish), paint, building renovation materials, untied branches and chemicals cannot be placed out for collection. Hard waste collections are timed to make the most of the dry weather in the region, when it’s safest for contractors to collect large, bulky items, and when it’s safest for the heavy collection trucks to navigate local roads, including many unsealed roads.
Items should be put out for collection on the Sunday before their collection week, and not earlier, to reduce the visual and environmental impact of rubbish piles.
Find out more about what you can – and can’t - put out for collection at yarraranges.vic. gov.au/hardwaste
With the Government’s social media ban officially in place as of 10 December, local youth are quickly adapting their platform usage, albeit not in ways that were expected. (Joel Carrett/AAP)
Multiculturalism champions
By Oliver Winn
Woori Yallock Primary School has announced its new cultural leader to celebrate diversity, create inclusive environments and educate its students.
Grade five student Abby Lindsay was selected for the school’s 2026 cultural leader on 5 December and she said she was excited to be leading the way for cultural diversity.
“I’m excited but also nervous,” Abby said.
Abby was inspired by the school’s 2025 cultural leader Felix Zangmeister, who lead the way in supporting the school’s Indigenous students.
“I saw what Felix was doing with the Indigenous kids and making them feel safe and happy and changing the acknowledgement to make it more inclusive.
“So I wanted to do that for the other kids of different religions,” Abby said.
Woori Yallock Primary School principal Oliver Thockloth said as cultural leader, Abby will help bring students, families and the whole Woori Yallock community together.
“She will lead certain days in our school so that there is a wide understanding of other cultures, customs, and religions.
“The school learns German, and Abby, along with our German student leader, Layla Fletcher, will plan a German day where all the students will celebrate German food, and culture,” Mr Thockloth said.
The official sponsor for Woori Yallock Primary School’s cultural leader is local south Indian restaurant Babaji’s Kerala Kitchen.
Co-owner Billy Crombie said Babaji’s was proud to be supporting the school in its endeavour to champion multiculturalism.
“We’re really proud to be sponsoring the cultural leader, we feel very grateful to be so well accepted in the Yarra Valley.
“It’s a little way of giving back and we’re here to support them in what they do,” Ms Crombie said.
Abby has already come up with ideas to make the school’s environment more inclusive for dif-
ferent cultural backgrounds.
“There’s a TV down the hall that has book reviews on it. Maybe, we could do that with people of different cultures and have stuff about their culture. So then people can watch them and get a bit of a better understanding,” Abby said.
She was aware of the lack of cultural diversity
in the Yarra Ranges and was motivated to make sure that people felt comfortable with expressing themselves.
“I want to help kids with different cultures and religions feel safer and happier because there’s not too many kids around here that are multicultural or have different religions,” Abby said.
Mr Thockloth also thanked Babajis for coming up with the idea of a cultural leader.
“We welcome Abby to her new role and proudly thank Babajis for coming up with the concept last year and for sponsoring what the world needs, kindness and understanding,” Mr Thockloth said.
By Oliver Winn
The Forever Friends Animal Rescue shelter has launched a new initiative highlighting the diverse range of people needed to save an animal.
The Gladysdale-based shelter started the campaign on 11 December where volunteers dressed up to represent the amount of roles at the shelter.
Forever Friends Animal Rescue (FFAR) volunteer Meaghan Adams said there was a vast amount of roles needed, spanning from dog walkers to administrative persons to lawyers.
“We now rely on so many different people with so many different roles, so the team that makes a dog or a cat able to find a home, you’re probably talking about 20 different roles,” Ms Adams said.
She listed a litany of roles that the shelter could have a hand in, including many one wouldn’t think of for an animal shelter.
“We need dog walkers, we need cat carers, we need trades people, we need people who can shear sheep, we need people who can create gardens with vegetables that we can feed the farm animals with.
“We need administration people that keep on top of the huge amount of admin that a non-profit has to has to do, we need everyone to clean - my god, the cleaning, can you imagine the cleaning,” she said.
But Ms Adams also wanted to recognise the amount of support already shown by the shelter’s volunteers.
“It actually is so heart warming and it broadens your perspective on the kindness and the goodness in our community.
“We are so touched by what people will do. Some people will arrive at midnight with an animal that’s been abused and they’ll have driven 100 kilometres to get here,” she said.
But the shelter needed more stronger and physically capable volunteers specifically to handle larger animals.
“A lot of the dogs here are larger dogs and they often need stronger people and they’re also going to be ideal for men to adopt because a tradesman might take the dog to work,” Ms Adams said.
Those interested in signing up are encouraged to visit their website: foreverfriends.org.au.
L-R: Babaji’s co-owner Billy Crombie, cultural leader Abby Lindsay, Woori Yallock Primary School acting assistant principal Jessica Howe. (Oliver Winn: 523970)
The Forever Friends Animal Rescue shelter’s campaign highlights the diverse range of skills needed to run an animal shelter. (Oliver Winn: 524390)
Black Saturday’s mental toll
By Callum Ludwig
A recent video of Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic)’s Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman AFSM for the Emergency Services Foundation’s Lived Experience series is a timely reminder of the mental toll of emergency events.
Mr Hardman’s own mental health journey was sparked by his experience of the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires, having been the deputy incident controller of the Kinglake fire complex.
Speaking to the Star Mail, Mr Hardman said people in the Yarra Valley will fully understand and appreciate the impact that bushfires can have.
“Generations of people have had some of the most devastating fires that Victoria has ever experienced in this footprint, whether it be Ash Wednesday or Black Saturday, two of the worst fires in Victoria’s history, so we’re talking to a community that knows fire,” he said.
“For those of us that were involved during the Black Saturday campaign and post Black Saturday, the impact of that devastating event became very real and the scale of the impact was becoming clearer in the days after the event.
“There was a collective shock that permeated right through the community and that still lives with the community that experienced that in the places where they live, but also the firefighters and other emergency services that walked toward that danger and that risk in the days after.”
173 people died during Black Saturday, 120 in the Kinglake fire complex alone.
Mr Hardman said no human being is impervious to the impacts of these events and they do take their toll over time.
“As human beings, we know whether you’re in the military or the emergency services that the more exposure you have to these events, it can sneak up on you,” he said.
“We’re only just starting to realise that people’s mental wellbeing is just as important as our physical safety and in many circumstances, if you break an arm at work, you can be back at
work in six weeks.
“If you break your brain, or in other words, you have a mental illness, then it might take you three years to get back or you may never get back.”
Mr Hardman was responsible for attending many of the community meetings following Black Saturday as well as helping coordinate the effort to ensure fires didn’t reignite in the following weeks, with the fires taking weeks to extinguish entirely in the first place.
In the video, Mr Hardman recounts spending the six weeks following Black Saturday acting in ‘command control’ mode before a colleague called him out for his behaviour and the emotions started to sink in and he engaged a psychologist and ended up leaving fire management entirely for three years.
He eventually returned, becoming Chief Fire Officer in 2018, and following the Black Summer of 2019/20, he sought out mental health support again which he continues to access to this day.
With expectations of high fire risk this fire season, Mr Hardman said there is always trepidation when you’re coming up to a bushfire season.
“We do rely on our training, our capability, and the one thing that really holds us in good stead is we stand next to people that have the same values that we have, you get this camaraderie between emergency services, and that’s really strong,” he said.
“I’m not saying that you must have a psychologist on staff, I’ve needed a professional psychologist, and they have been incredibly helpful to me, when you need them, you need them, but it’s also about being able to talk to your mates and your colleagues in your industry.
“Telling people that you’re not okay, saying that you’re feeling different, noticing when other people are behaving differently, and asking them if they’re okay, and asking them if they need to talk, and making it completely normal for us to talk about mental wellbeing and mental illness, and everybody understanding that this is a matter to support each other.”
To view Mr Hardman’s whole Lived Experience video, visit esf.com.au/lived-experience/ chris-hardman/.
Mr Hardman said his message to people is that make sure you’ve got a fantastic network of people around you that know you and are willing to give you honest feedback and that you are also looking after your colleagues in the same way.
“That’s the starting point, if we’re doing that on a regular basis and we talk about mental illness in the same way we talk about our physical safety,” he said.
“Let’s remember there is no stigma about having a medical condition that is associated with your mental wellbeing, it’s okay not to be okay, which is a bit of a cliche these days, but it’s true.
“There’s no ‘You can snap out of it’, that’s just bullshit to be frank, if you need help and you need guidance when you’re feeling really stressed with
Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman AFSM opens up on how Black Saturday sparked his mental health journey. (File)
Honouring the Duff legacy
By Gabriella Vukman
The main street of Healesville has felt a little heavier in the last week.
As the clouds converged again for yet another onslaught of rainy days, the space between Express Noodles and Willow and Jackson Cafe where the old beef joint butcher shop used to be, continued to stand to attention.
Another of the town’s building sentries watching on steadily as the world around it continues to shift.
The air of last week’s wet mornings was tainted with the scent of absence. The absence of the beloved local, Eric Duff.
A deeply involved member of the Healesville community, Eric died on 23 November at the age of 83.
Eric Duff was born in 1942 and pursued a career in jockeying before serving the Healesville township for over 60 years as a butcher.
Closing the butcher shop just four years ago in 2021, Eric worked up until he was 79.
Eric’s son Ben described his father as hard working and family-oriented.
“Dad was my best mate really,” Ben said.
“He was very kind, generous, and one of the hardest-working people I’ve ever known,” he said.
“Being a butcher means long days. Sometimes it’s up at four o’clock and you don’t finish until six or seven, especially around the Christmas period.”
According to Ben, Eric would sometimes get up at three in the morning and go down to the butcher shop to cut the meat and prepare orders and then head off to the racing track to ride for a couple of hours before returning to the butcher shop and work all day.
“He would go home after all that and chop wood for his mum and then do it all over again,” Ben said.
“That type of work ethic continued throughout his life.”
“He rarely took a day off because there was always someone that needed to be served and a lot of guest houses, restaurants and locals around Healesville needed their meat and relied on him for it,” he said.
Ben recalled when his parents flew back to Australia after a holiday in the United States.
“They got home at two in the morning on Grand Final Day and at about six o’clock my mum woke up to dad getting dressed and heading out the door,” Ben said.
“She asked him where he was going and he told her he was going to work. ‘It is Grand Final Day so the shop will be busy. I am sure they will appreciate the extra hand.”
“After four hours of sleep he went to work and that is just the kind of guy he is,” Ben said.
Ben apprenticed as a butcher under his father and worked together with him in their family-owned shop ‘The Beef Joint’ in Healesville for 20 years.
“My father was my boss, he was my colleague and he was my mate,” Ben said.
“When I was little, I used to go down to the butcher shop and spend the day with dad, sitting on a milk crate watching him work and helping out where I could,” he said.
“All of us siblings would go down and help him out after school hours. It was a family thing.”
With a love for interacting with his customers, Eric was known as the town chatterbox, always happy to chat and often building long-lasting relationships with customers.
Ben said, “He had this thing he used to do which I always used to laugh at, where if he wanted to chat, after serving a customer he would wander around the counter and move as if he was about to open the door for them.”
“Then he would end up leaning on the door and continuing his chat until he was finished and the poor customer was stuck there,” Ben said.
“They would be hanging on to their bags, with the handles cutting into their hands. It was his signature move, I would say.”
Beyond being known as a shop owner, Eric had his fingers in many pies.
From being president of the Healesville Chamber of Commerce, and playing a strong role in the Healesville Municipal Band, to being president of the Healesville High School Council for almost 20 years, Eric’s contributions to the community are vast.
Ben said, “he was a very busy father and grandfather and person in general.”
“We used to call him Mr President for a while because he was president of four different organisations,” he said.
According to Ben, Eric valued family above all else.
“He always made time for us all. Especially his grandchildren,” Ben said.
“He would ferry them anywhere, take them wherever they needed for their sport and school.”
“He showed up for grandparent’s days and he would take them down to the beach house for weekends away and take them out for lunch and spoil them.”
The community’s love for Eric remains strong.
Ben said, “The Facebook post we put up about him got over 250 messages. They were all lovely. Everyone had such lovely things to say.”
“The support and the messages from the community have been extremely overwhelming. It’s been really, really nice,” he said.
“I am, and I think a lot of other people are going to really miss him.”
Healesville local and long-time friend of Eric Garry’s first impression of Eric was that he was “an aggressive little fella, who loved to chat and would tell you exactly what he thought.”
“Most importantly, as I got to know him I saw he had a big heart. Was really community minded and he was completely family oriented,” Garry said.
“I would say he is probably my best mate.”
Garry first met Eric when he opened a cafe in Healesville 25 years ago. The cafe purchased meat from Eric’s butcher shop.
The friendship bloomed when the two went to Europe together along with their wives.
“When we got him and his wife to come to Europe with us, it was the first time he had been away longer than a weekend,” Garry said.
“He has been a hard worker all his life.”
“His whole life was the butcher shop and his family,” Garry said.
According to Garry, Eric brought his love of butchery across the globe on holiday with him.
Garry said, “One funny thing when we travelled with him, was that everywhere we went, we would have to drag him out of the local butchers.”
“He would be in there chatting to the butcher, looking at the different cuts of meat, taking photographs and documenting what he could bring back,” Garry said.
“It was also sort of a work trip for him. He just loved it”
With Spain being one of Eric’s favourite destinations due to the many legs of ham hanging in the streets, Eric bought himself a new slicer and shipped it back home.
Garry said, “We went to Spain, Italy, France and then America and he absolutely loved all of the communities we got to see and be a part of.”
“Once we got Eric to travel, he absolutely loved it because he could chat to and meet new people,” he said.
“When we were away he would Facetime with his family every day. “
Garry can attest to the community’s love for Eric.
“He was well-loved and there are actually a lot of people in the community who all said they really liked Eric,” Garry said.
Known for his chatty demeanour, Eric solidified his role in the community as the guy you go to for advice on anything.
“Eric was the sounding board for the community. He knew just about everyone in Healesville and surrounding districts” Garry said.
“People would come up and ask him anything because he probably knew the answers.”
“He was also a good conduit to the council and was always ringing up and advising the council in the best way possible of what they were doing wrong.”
Eric’s Memorial was held on Saturday 6 December and was attended by hundreds of members from the Healesville community.
Eric and his son Ben sharing some father-son time at their family owned butcher shop before it closed. (Supplied).
The absence of Duff has left a hole in the Healesville Community. (Supplied).
YARRA VALLEY RODEO 2026
Rodeo runs for community
The Yarra Valley Rodeo is gearing up for another action packed year, and this time the excitement comes with an even stronger community focus.
Now fully run for the benefit of local sporting clubs and groups across the Valley, the event provides a fantastic opportunity for these organisations to raise much-needed funds. In the true spirit of giving back, the rodeo will also once again support the homeless through Lilydale-based charity Holy Fools.
So dust off your hats, grab your boots, and get ready for a thrilling night of rodeo action set against the backdrop of the Yarra Valley’s world-class wineries. Mark your calendar for Saturday 17 January 2026, when the annual event returns to Yarra Valley Racing in Yarra Glen.
Gates open at 3pm, with rodeo action kicking off from 5pm. Adding to the atmosphere, local favourites Ruckus will keep the energy high throughout the night, playing until 11.30pm.
Families and thrill seekers alike will be spoilt for choice, with carnival rides, retail pop-ups, food trucks and a well-stocked bar available all evening.
Feeling brave? Test your skills on the Mechanical Bull or simply enjoy the non stop entertainment on offer. Little ones are in for a treat too, with free face painting and plenty of fun activities to keep them smiling.
With the popularity of the Yarra Valley Rodeo growing every year, organisers are urging visitors to book early. Tickets are already selling much faster than in previous years, and with Christmas approaching, they make the perfect gift for anyone who loves live entertainment and memorable experiences. This is an event that consistently sells out, so securing your spot early is essential.
Beyond the excitement, the rodeo also carries an important message. Once again, it will help raise awareness for Ovarian Cancer and SADS (Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndrome), ensuring the community comes together not just for entertainment, but also for meaningful causes.
crowd favourite bronc and bull riding, the 2026 Yarra Valley Rodeo promises an unforgettable mix of thrills, spills and high-energy action.
The Yarra Valley Rodeo is returning for 2026. (Supplied)
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Happy 50th to the library
By Gabriella Vukman
The Healesville Library celebrated a major milestone on Wednesday 10 December 2025, marking its 50th anniversary with a full day of free community activities that brought together families, long-time locals, former staff and supporters from across the region.
The day began at 10:30am, with events including Family Storytime, a sausage sizzle, a lively performance by The Wannabees, and a special presentation by the Healesville Historical Society exploring the library’s rich history.
Your Library Board Chair and Mayor of Maroondah, Cr Linda Hancock, reflected on the library’s role as a longstanding cornerstone in the township.
“Everything happens at this library, this community is quite isolated as a township, but this is the one connection,” Cr Hancock said.
“The residents come here more than they would come to a council office because everyone at the library knows what’s going on, how to help people, so to have it still going for 50 years is just great for our community, especially out here,” she said.
“Sometimes change and moving with the times to help our community is good, but what I like about libraries is they stay the same. You know when I went to Storytime with my children and my grandchildren nothing has changed and that’s great.”
When asked what sets the Healesville branch apart, Cr Hancock emphasised that its strength is shared across the region.
“Every township in around Yarra Ranges has their community going to their library and we’reno different here in Healesville,” Cr Hancock said.
“People come here, they feel safe, welcomed, and the library is a quiet space, a meeting space,” she said.
“That really carries through all our libraries.”
CEO of Your Library Dr Karina Lamb, told Star Mail about plans for the next 50 years.
“We are very proud of the connection that our libraries team have with the community and we will certainly continue to do more of that,” Ms Lamb said.
“We would like to do a bit more outreach throughout the Yarra Ranges and we are looking at expanding our access to digital literacy and some other programmes that we run out this way,” she said.
“We are very proud of the way that the community connect with our staff and we are very proud of our staff here too, they do an exceptional job at Healesville.”
Ms Lamb also noted the importance of serving people across all life stages.
“We work with the life cycle of the community, everyone from babies right to our ageing populations,” Ms Lamb said.
Ms Lamb shared updates about new library developments and technological progress.
Now a space with a wide variety of both digital and physical assets that serve the community, the Healesville library has come a long way since its 1975 inception.
Rallied for by the community for almost fifty years before it came to fruition, the proposal for a community library in Healesville was struck down many times.
After multiple petitions and the assembly of the Healesville Library Promotion Association, the first books hit the shelves and membership cost 30 cents and 20 cents for students.
Along with the many stories, and events that have graced the rooms of the Healesville Library, a local favourite entails an unexpected visit from a four-legged creature.
Summoned by the grass-like shaggy green carpet of the old library, an escaped goat wan-
event.
dered in and was described to be somewhat disappointed by the wiry texture of its afternoon snack.
Withstanding moving buildings and the arrival of the digital era, Healesville Library continues to remain an important part of the township’s history and local community.
Christmas window winners announced: Spreading cheer
The Yarra Ranges Council has officially announced the winners of its highly anticipated annual Christmas Window Display Competition, celebrating the incredible creativity and festive spirit of local businesses across the region. With four winners chosen from distinct areas, the Dandenong Ranges, the Urban area, the Yarra Valley, and the Upper Yarra, each display brought a unique sense of holiday magic to the streets.
The competition showcased the dedication of retailers to brightening the community’s holiday season, transforming their storefronts into dazzling spectacles that captured the imagination of residents and visitors alike.
A touch of nostalgia in the Dandenongs
The winner for the Dandenong Ranges area is Geppetto’s Workshop for their enchanting display, “A Touch of Christmas Nostalgia.” The window offers a magical peek inside a storybook world, designed to evoke childhood wonder. It features classic elements like a snow-tipped tree, twinkling with charm, alongside plush teddies, hand puppets, and nostalgic toys gathered
around a cozy fireplace. From a classic nutcracker standing guard to snowy garlands, the display successfully captured warmth and wonder, sparking smiles and a sense of Christmas past for passersby.
Happiness and cheer in the urban area
In the Urban area, Christmas at Shapers took out the top prize. Known for creating windows that radiate “Christmas cheer and happiness,” the team at Shapers, led by Lee, outdid themselves this year. The display, which Lee personally regards as their best yet, was partly inspired by gifted Christmas decorations from friends. The true measure of its success, however, is the joyful reaction it prompts from the community, with the team loving the “chatter and smiles” from people of all ages who stop to admire their festive creation.
A Ho Ho Haircutters Christmas
The title for the Yarra Valley went to Haircutters Gallery. Calling themselves “crazy Christmas lovers,” the team—Wendy, Tenielle, and Ashleigh—are known for their enthusiastic participation.Theiraward-winningdisplaythisyear
was enhanced by new additions to their festive collection, notably thanks to Glenda’s Candles, which added extra sparkle and ambiance. The gallery’s window was a vibrant effort to spread Christmas cheer to all who live in and visit the Yarra Ranges.
Gourmet gifts and a stuck Santa up the Yarra Finally, the Upper Yarra winner is A Valley Christmas At The Deli. Their display, “A Valley Christmas At The Deli,” celebrated the magic of the holiday in the heart of Wandin. It featured a cosy sleigh brimming with local produce, handcrafted gifts, and gourmet treats, set against a backdrop of festive sparkle, snowflakes, and twinkling lights. Adding a playful touch to their local celebration, the window included a humorous scene asking passersby to help Santa, who was comically “stuck in the chimney.”
The Yarra Ranges Council congratulated all the winners and participants for their fantastic efforts, which have undoubtedly enhanced the festive atmosphere across the Shire.
Library staff lined up for a quick photo on Wednesday’s
President of the Healesville Historical Society Bryn Jones gave a speech on the Library’s history.
Councillors Linda Hancock and McAllister cut the cake to celebrate the Healesville Library’s 50th anniversary milestone. (Gabriella Vukman)
Shapers.
Haircutters Gallery. (Yarra Ranges Council)
Yarra Valley Deli Cafe.
Geppetto’s Workshop.
Think popping to the Yarra Valley for lunch
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Once complete, Summerset Chirnside Park will offer a wide range of living options from spacious villas and assisted living apartments through to modern residential aged care suites all within the same location, so that you can feel secure that if your needs change you won’t need to leave the village.* We call this our continuum of care.
Homes are selling off the plan now. Get in touch and learn more about Summerset Chirnside Park. Love the life you choose.
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NEWS Eastern Health recognised
By Callum Ludwig
Two Eastern Health initiatives have been recognised for their efforts in the recent Victorian Public Healthcare Awards.
Eastern Health’s Social Work Team won a Victorian Public Healthcare Award in the category of ‘Celebrating a Strong and Sustainable Workforce’ while the Rahma Health team
Director of the Allied Health Workforce Jackie Orwin said the Social Work service, working across five of the Eastern Health hospitals, won the award for their work in ‘Boosting Social Work via AHA (Allied Health Assistant) Roles in RACS (Residential Aged Care Services)/TCP (Transition Care Program) Pathways’.
“The Social Work teams were delighted and proud to win the award in recognition of their efforts to improve outcomes for patients, Eastern Health Social Work teams are committed to delivering high quality care and this Award validated their hard work and innovation,” she said.
“Eastern Health Social Workers are a qualified and credentialled workforce that focus on understanding patients in their social and community contexts, with the view to maximising the support available to them to promote the best possible health and wellbeing outcomes.
“The Social Work Allied Health Assistant workforce was introduced to further enhance these health and wellbeing outcomes for patients.”
The AHA roles were established due to high turnover and long patient stays in the RACS/TCP pathway and by late 2024, staff turnover had been cut by 29 per cent, referral response improved by 60 per cent, discharge times reduced by 25 per cent and had freed up 5440 hospital beds.
Ms Orwin said the awarded work was a targeted Social Work Allied Health Assistant workforce and model of care reform initiative.
“It focused on inpatient teams supporting older adults awaiting permanent Residential Aged Care (RACS) placement, the initiative demon-
have been
strated improvements in patient care, staff experience, as well as system efficiency,” she said.
“The Eastern Health Social Work leadership team continues to explore how a Social Work Allied Health Assistant workforce may improve patient care pertaining to other social issues. “Furthermore, we are looking in to how we can share
the new knowledge and learnings with other social work services.”
The Rahma Health team won an award for ‘Excellence in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion’, for their work on ‘A Blueprint for Community-led Multicultural Health Resources, starting with the Arabic-speaking community’.
The Rahma Health team was founded at Eastern Health and works with 20 partners, codesigning community-led multicultural health resources, aiming to help improve healthcare for refugee and migrant families across Victoria.
The Rahma Health team were contacted for comment.
Glenys scoops award as Victorian Volunteer of the Year
By Gabriella Vukman
Former Healesville local and Gunaikurnai Elder Glenys Watts was announced Victorian Volunteer of the Year on 27 November for her volunteer work over the last 30 years.
Alongside being pronounced Victorian Volunteer of the Year, Ms Watts was also the recipient of the Dame Elizabeth Murdoch Award which recognises exceptional service to the community.
The Dame Elizabeth Murdoch award comes with a $10,000 donation to a charity of the recipient’s choice and is awarded by the premier.
Having grown up in Healesville, Ms Watts confirmed that the township and local community had great bearing on who she is today.
Ms Watts said, “I think that growing up in a country town like Healesville does influence your character. A strong sense of Community and the environment.”
“Community events and markets, activities rely heavily on volunteers so helping out becomes part of everyday life,” she said. Healesville will always hold a place in my heart.
Ms Watts first began volunteering at 15 years old.
“My mum was in the Red Cross and we used to help collect funds at Maroondah Dam with the tins, I was in Netball and Baton-Twirling and it was all part of volunteering to give kids in Healesville and Yarra Glen something to get involved with,” Ms Watts said.
“I began to teach younger girls how to twirl then helped start up a team at Yarra Glen. I didn’t do it alone, it was with parents and other volunteers who helped with the group,” she said.
Ms. Watts’ volunteer work is vast, ranging from working with the Public Records Office Victoria to aid in the protection of and access to the knowledge and records of First Nations People.
Ms Watts said, “It is important to let others know the true history of our country via storytelling and truth telling and to look after the environment by developing a better understanding of Aboriginal concepts of looking after country.”
Aside from volunteering, Ms Watts loves to spend time with her friends and family.
“I have three grown up kids and five grandchildren so I like to make sure I am there for them all first,” Ms Watts said.
Currently living in the Gippsland area, Ms Watts is heavily involved with the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation in helping them with other Gunaikurnai people when they were going for Native Title from 1997 to 2010.
Ms Watts was also a member of the Negotiation team with 10 other Gunaikurnai people for a Recognition and Settlement Agreement with the State of Victoria.
Ms Watts is still on the GLAWAC Board, which was the start of Gunaikurnai people being recognised as the Right people for country as the Traditional Owners for approximately 1.33 million hectares in Gippsland including 200 metres of off-shore sea territory.
Working with the Dhelk Dja Indigenous Family Violence Action Group in supporting the Dhelk Dja 10 year Agreement along with leading strategies to address Indigenous Family Violence across Victoria, Ms Watts takes part in campaigning for culturally safe, trauma informed services.
Elevating the voices of victim survivors in policy development is another key area for which Ms Watts takes part in campaigning for.
Ms. Watts’ mother was admitted into the Aboriginal Honour Roll of Victoria and was a great source of Ms. Watts’ inspiration.
“My mother’s dedication to sharing Aboriginal Culture, stories and helping others has lit the path I follow today,” Ms Watts said.
Upon receiving her awards, Ms Watts was very surprised.
Ms Watts said, “I volunteer as I am passionate, to share an understanding of local issues and to seek solutions.”
“I volunteer to create change and to work with other like-minded people and in this work, you are never alone,” she said.
Former Healesville local and Gunaikurnai Elder Glenys Watts was announced Victorian Volunteer of the Year on 27 November for her volunteer work over the last 30 years. (Supplied)
Two awards
won by Eastern Health at the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards. (File)
Connect one event at a time
By Gabriella Vukman
On Tuesday 16 December, an open invitation to any members of the local community stands to meet at the Terminus for a Christmas lunch with an assortment of members of the Healesville township.
Orchestrated by non for profit organisation Healesville Connect, lunch at the terminus will commence at 1pm, and is one of a series of monthly Tuesday lunch get-togethers.
Healesville Connect was founded in 2021 during Covid as a way for new and isolated members of the town to socialise.
Co-founder of Healesville Connect Jo Bracken said, “I had lived here in Healesville for about six months when somebody posted on the Healesville noticeboard how bored and lonely they were.”
“Covid was a really isolating time for a lot of people and we needed to do something about that.”
“Myself and another lady from Healesville said ‘We need to do something about this’ and we met up outside the Healesville pub with masks on to discuss how we would move forward,” Jo said.
Since that pub meeting, Healesville Connect has evolved into a flourishing organisation that runs a variety of social events catering to all members of the Healesville and surrounding community in the name of bringing people together.
“There are a lot of people that have lived in Healesville for a long time but have always worked outside of town so they don’t actually know many people,” Jo said.
“There are also a lot of retirees and widowers who have moved to the town to be near busy family, and have a lot of hours in the day to fill in.”
“The events have helped a lot of people to connect with others and find friends, which is so important,” she said.
The committee now has ten members and operates a busy schedule with events including, Friday night drinks nights at Watts River, Monday morning walks around Healesville, a coffee at Willow and Jackson Cafe every second Monday afternoon, a weekly Friday coffee, morning tea at the Alowyn Gardens, cinema nights, cards nights at the RSL, and a Welcome to Healesville event quarterly.
Jo said, “We try to get people out and about to form friendships.”
“Our events really do cater to everyone.”
“We organise carpooling for the events that are a bit further away. Especially for people who don’t feel comfortable driving,” she said.
Anyone can attend any of Healesville Connect’s events and according to Jo, the environments and collections of people at each event are welcoming
and warm.
Jo said, “Attendance numbers vary from week to week and from event to event.”
“Our regulars are really friendly and very good with welcoming new people,” she said.
The organisation’s quarterly Saturday morning Welcome to Healesville events also serve the purpose of helping newcomers and seasoned Healesvillians alike to find their place in the town.
“Our Welcome to Healesville events are for people who are new to Healesville or people who have lived here for a while and really want to know a bit more about the community,” Jo said.
“Currently we hold these events in the Healesville Library and we give out lots of pamphlets about sporting groups, doctors, bus timetables, community garden, permaculture, anything we
know that we can find a pamphlet for in the community,” she said.
“We also hand out the rotary directory.”
Along with pamphlets, long-time Healesville residents also attend the Welcome to Healesville Events and to share tips and tricks concerning life in the township.
Local businesses also donate local wares to the event for attendees to sample.
Serving to facilitate community relationships, Healesville Connect’s events can also double as township information sessions.
Jo said, “A lot of people use our events to find out what is going on in the community.”
“We always try to pass on information from other groups,” she said.
Adding more affordable events to Healesville
Connects’ list is the next step for Jo.
“Having more affordable activities is something that plays on my mind,” she said.
“We are looking at ways to involve everyone without that cost barrier.”
To Jo, Healesville Connect makes up a large portion of her time.
“Healesville Connect is what my life works around,” she said.
“It is good fun and I have met so many people.”
In addition to Tuesday’s Christmas lunch, Christmas drinks will also be held at 5pm on Friday 19 December at Watts River Brewery.
For more information, visit the Healesville Connect Facebook group and be sure to tap ‘going’ on the event site. facebook.com/groups/healesvilleconnect/
Volunteers recognised for major upgrades at ECOSS
By Oliver Winn
A group of hard working volunteers at Yarra Valley ECOSS were recognised for their efforts after finishing two major upgrades to the farm.
Taking place on 9 December, participants of the Crops for Community program celebrated their award certificates with a sausage sizzle and a dash of festive cheer.
Yarra Valley ECOSS executive officer Chelsea McNab said the program’s participants (made up of people living with disabilities and their support workers) helped seal the farm’s pathways so they could be accessible to all.
“At ECOSS we have lots of participants living with different abilities coming in our Crops for Community program and we want to have an accessible site, and our pathways were a bit pot-holy and we’re consistently fixing them and they weren’t really great for wheelchairs.
“Now that’s here, we’re really excited to welcome more people with not only wheelchairs, but also prams and walking aides and for all ages and abilities. It feels really good to be able to be more accessible,” Ms McNab said.
With the help of an $18,000 grant from Federal Casey MP Aaron Violi, ECOSS was able to asphalt the pathways throughout the farm to make it easier for people with varying accessibility needs to get around.
Pathways connecting to key amenities such as the accessible toilet and community garden beds were prioritised.
“We tried to prioritise areas so that people in wheelchairs could actually get in from the car park to the accessible toilet there and then around the community garden and as much of the site as possible.
“They can attend our events in the market now easily. It’s not something that we could just afford
to do, even though the want has always been there,” Ms McNab said.
Celebrating in the Coop at ECOSS, the space was brimming with energy as the volunteers shared smiles and laughs.
Their unbridled enthusiasm was infectious - you could feel a strong sense of pride and joy throughout the room.
Another major upgrade to the farm was the construction of five artist studios which will house like-minded upcoming businesses in the community.
The five hubs were funded by a $50,000 grant from the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing and built in a way to maximise their sustainability.
With double glazed windows and well insulat-
ed interiors, the hubs are ethical spaces and will house businesses of the same nature.
“We’re creating a healing art space there for different modalities, and we’ve got now a psychotherapist in one and an NDIS art therapist in another,” Ms McNab said.
“We’re looking for people who might want to share spaces or do creative healing things. But we also designed it so that there’s a workshop area in the middle so that people can connect and meet each other and run workshops and perhaps collaborate more.”
The incubator hubs will give small businesses the opportunity to start out with less overhead costs and network with other businesses in the space.
“It’s very hard to start a business if you’ve got
really high overheads and have any public interface, so we can offer that here and it also makes our site more interesting and brings more vibrancy,” Ms McNab said.
But she said the opportunity to get involved with the community at ECOSS was just as valuable.
“There’s a really vibrant community here at ECOSS and I see that development of connections can bring so much more than if you’re going out alone and you’re isolated.
“We wanted to bring that energy to the space and support the local economy,” Ms McNab said.
Those who are interested in using the incubator hubs can contact Chelsea McNab at: info@ ecoss.org.au.
It’s taken the volunteers two years to build the hubs but Ms McNab said it was worth it.
“The process of doing that with volunteers… it’s been a really good process but a long process.
“They’ve gained skills, people have come just to learn for a few days and it created a really good bonding opportunity for a group of people to do that together,” Ms McNab said.
She thanked Tom and Neil who led the group of volunteers in building the hubs and said “what they’ve done with the amount of money is quite exceptional”.
A winter Friday Coffee in the Laneway is a typical event organised by non for profit Healesville Connect. (Supplied).
The volunteers celebrated with glee as they received their certificates. (Oliver Winn: 524302)
The new artist studios will house ethical businesses. (524302)
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Learning Centre revamp
By Callum Ludwig
There’s exciting news at the Healesville Living and Learning Centre as we edge closer to the turn of the year.
Staff returning to the centre, development at the site and new activities and programs are all to come.
Executive officer Nich Rogers said they’re transforming the Healesville Living and Learning Centre into a community hub.
“We’re going to be doing some redevelopments at the site in terms of improving the buildings, but we’re also going to be doing a whole bunch of things around providing a more diverse range of programs and services down there,” he said.
“It’s a bit of a reimagination of what the Healesville Living and Learning Centre is, and we want to really see it as a living room for the community in a way, a place where people can come, can hang out, can get information, can participate in activities in a really easy, no stress, no pressure environment.
“A big part of that is the staff returning back to the centre… we think responsiveness and communication will be improved by having our staff back at the site where we run our classes and programs.”
Healesville Living and Learning Centre staff have been operating out of the Healesville Library for a period of time.
Mr Rogers said their vision is to make the centre another place where people in Healesville can come together, but they want to create that with the community.
“That’s a really important missing piece of
the puzzle that we want to include the community much more heavily in decisions about what operates at the centre, what type of stfff we want at the centre, how we should run our
services,” he said.
“We really want the community to take more of a leadership role in thinking about how the centre can be best serving the com-
munity.”
“If someone in the community has got a great idea, they’re looking for a place to host that idea, they’re looking for help to promote that idea and it’s a community-minded idea, we might be the place for them that allows them to make a dollar out of their activity while also supporting the community.”
Recent consultation from the centre spoke to about 150 people from the Healesville community about what they’d like to see, but they have hopes of hearing from more. Practical skills, art, youth activities and school holiday programs were all common requests, as well as continuing their current services.
Mr Rogers said having community hubs is fundamental and adds a sense of cohesion to the community.
“They have a central point, a belonging place and we want Healesville Living and Learning Centre to be that community hub, I think it’s absolutely fundamental to people’s sense of having a sense of connection to their community and feeling safe in their community,” he said.
“Equally, we want to be a place where people can come and talk about things that they are seeing in the community, be they opportunities or issues, they can come and talk to us, and they’ve got a central point where they can come and get more information.
“That could be anything, it could be information about how do I talk to the council about collecting my rubbish, or it could be about a bigger issue around how do we progress reconciliation in the local area…we can be all of those things at the hub.”
60 years of history celebrated at Upper Yarra Museum
By Oliver Winn
The Upper Yarra Valley Historical Society (UYVHS) celebrated 60 years of history preservation with an open day on Sunday 7 December.
The local community attended the open day to explore the Upper Yarra Museum where they were able to view historical artefacts, talk with the society’s members and hear about its plans for the future.
UYVHS president John Bramley said the day was a successful one with around 40 people showing up.
“It all went well, the first thing they noticed was the way the grounds were looking, and they had a look around the museum and they were quite impressed with it all.”
Aside from the public, Mr Bramley said State Eildon MP Cindy McLeish also showed up while representatives from the Yarra Ranges Council made an appearance.
Visitors got to witness the original meeting table the first committee of the Upper Yarra Historical Society used back when it first formed.
When attendees were finished inspecting historical artefacts and reading up on local legends, they indulged in some of the refreshments that had been prepared.
The preparation for the event wasn’t too rigorous but Mr Bramley said a lot of work went into advertising it.
“Before that there was a lot of advertising on Facebook and different flyers we put out throughout Yarra Junction and other areas,” Mr Bramley said.
As the UYVHS moves into the new year, Mr Bramley said the focus was now on next year’s Crank Up Heritage and Community festival in April 2026.
The festival is one of the main fundraising events the Upper Yarra Museum holds each year to ensure it can keep running.
The event is also funded by the Yarra Ranges Council and the Bendigo Community Bank.
The Crank Up festival has been running for 35 years now, only stopping for Covid-19 lockdowns, yet it shows no signs of cranking down.
Mr Bramley said he hoped to continue the work of prior members in preserving the history of the Yarra Ranges.
“The committee members are dedicated and are of great assistance and our team that looks after the grounds and maintenance do an excellent job.
“The archive work is ongoing, and the team are working through the older work as well as new artefacts and documents that are donated,” Mr Bramley said.
Though there are some struggles among many community organisations to engage youth to participate, Mr Bramley was confi-
“As with other organisations it is difficult to recruit the younger generation to become involved with artefacts and documents they consider are in the past.
“We have advertised for assistance with the archiving work and have received some enquiries and have had two people join to help,” Mr Bramley said.
The Healesville Living and Learning Centre is set for a revamp of its offerings. (File: 141043)
dent in the future of the UYVHS.
The Upper Yarra Valley Historical Society celebrated 60 years on 7 December. (Supplied)
Cindy McLeish attended the event. (Supplied) Visitors enjoyed refreshments after a long time looking through artefacts. (Supplied)
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Evocative oil paintings
By Oliver Winn
December’s exhibition at the Warburton Waterwheel depicts the many scenes and landscapes of the Yarra Valley by Ben Winspear.
Mr Winspear’s exhibition, Moods of the Yarra Valley, is on until 30 December and he said it was exciting to showcase his work to the public.
“It’s fabulous, I’ve got to meet a lot of creative people and it’s given me a chance to explore this end of the valley. It’s quite exciting really,” Mr Winspear said.
Using oil paints, Mr Winspear captures the essence of the Yarra Ranges through lively and evocative depictions of rolling hills, pastoral fields and of course, the earthy tones of the Australian bush.
Having moved into the Yarra Ranges three years ago, Mr Winspear started plein air painting (the act of painting outdoors) to immerse himself within the landscape.
Set across the wall at the Waterwheel exhibition space is over one hundred nine by five inch paintings grouped into three sections.
The small area of the canvas allowed for fast, rough paintings based on the various landscapes Mr Winspear has come across in the Yarra Ranges and proved to be a great way of warming up his skills.
“A few times last year and the year before, the gaps in between getting out were getting a little bit long. So I started just doing these little nine by fives… as warm-ups.”
“I painted in all weathers - you can see summer and winter, I’ve been out in the frost in minus three degrees, in sunsets, sun rises and hot summers… and everything in between,” he said.
Though Mr Winspear started painting nine by fives as a way to get the creative juices flowing, the format actually follows the strokes of a historic art movement in Melbourne.
The nine by five format stems from an exhibition held in Melbourne in 1889, where 182 cigar box lids were used as canvases to depict landscapes characterised by a fresh colours and informal compositions.
The cigar box lids, of course, were nine by five inches big, and it was this exhibition which spurred the Australian Impressionism movement - often regarded as the first truly Australian art movement.
“It’s a beautiful little size and format, so that’s what I’ve been following on. Hence they’re not a detailed work, they’re just an impression - a snapshot, I guess you could say,” Mr Winspear said.
In order to make ends meet, Mr Winspear teaches painting and drawing, and he said it can often be challenging financially.
“You can go to different places and learn to be an artist… but there’s not a lot of education at times about… the marketing and trying to make
ends meet.”
Mr Winspear worked a variety of outdoor jobs before he was a painter, and by spending a lot of time in nature, he said it helped him connect with the Australian landscape.
“When I was riding horses, we’d get up at 4am, and go down to the track for training and be in the fog and the sunrise. So those things are absolutely cemented in me.
“So I might be out painting a sunrise or a sunset, and not that I consciously think of that, those things and the feel of it is embedded in my psyche.”
He said seeing the positive comments left by visitors to the exhibition was the most fulfilling aspect of it all.
“The real success is when somebody walks in and says, ‘This really gives me a feel of the Yarra Valley.’”
Healesville Sanctuary’s recycling efforts progressing well
By Oliver Winn
Healesville Sanctuary’s reverse vending machine is quickly collecting more drink containers as it raises money for conservation efforts.
In November, Zoos Victoria teamed up with Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic) for its Don’t Kiss This Frog initiative, aimed at protecting threatened frog species in the Yarra Ranges.
Healesville Sanctuary operations general manager Russell Gibb said by partnering with Vic Return, the scheme coordinator for CDS Vic, the funds raised would go back into conservation efforts.
“It’s terrific to be able to be involved in a scheme like Vic Return, which actually puts money back into important conservation work,” Mr Russell said.
The reverse vending machine fields three 240 litre bins per week of recyclables which is expected to double during the summer.
Species such as the baw baw frog will benefit from the funds raised by the scheme as it will enable specialist keepers to breed insurance popu-
lations. Meanwhile spotted tree frogs will be released back into the wild with the help of field biologists.
Healesville Sanctuary also partnered with a company called EnviroBank which approaches
local businesses to collect recyclables. The benefits of the reverse vending machine were twofold for the Healesville Sanctuary, as it would contribute to the sanctuary while also being the only one installed in the area.
“That was just a nice community thing to do because in Healesville, or at least in that area, there’s no other reverse vending machines in the locality.”
With nearly three billion drink containers consumed each year, too many end up polluting the very ecosystems frogs rely on.
Most aluminium, glass, plastic, and carton drink containers between 150ml and 3L are eligible (look for the 10c mark on the label).
Just don’t crush your cans, so they can be scanned.
The Yarra Ranges is home to a diverse range of wildlife in need of protection and is also home to the only place in Victoria where both of its faunal emblems reside.
In Yellingbo, the helmeted honeyeater and Leadbeater’s possum can be found in the area’s riparian swamplands.
Mr Russell reminded the community to keep the recycling effort up by visiting Healesville Sanctuary’s reverse vending machine.
“It’s just important we’re engaging the public to do the right thing with their containers,” Mr Russell said.
Ben Winspear moved to the Yarra Valley three years ago. (Oliver Winn: 524195)
His collection of nine by five inch paintings were inspired by the Australian Impressionism movement. (524195)
His exhibition is on until 30 December at the Warburton Waterwheel. (524195)
Mr Winspear’s paintings varied in size, from small plein air paintings to large studio works. (524195)
It will help species such as the Baw Baw Frog. (Supplied)
Drink driving? Wrong choice.
The police will be using every tool they have to keep the roads safe. But if you decide to drink then drive, how your holiday ends is your choice.
Young people make space
By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
Knox Headspace hosted its youth-led community event, ‘headspace Day’ on Friday, 5 December from 3.30pm to 5pm to celebrate young voices, creativity and mental health awareness.
This year’s theme was “Make Space”, which encouraged young people to reflect on identity, wellbeing and community through art.
Community engagement coordinator, Jasmine Scampton, said the volunteers and staff had long hoped to invite local young artists to help make their space feel more inclusive and welcoming.
“We could not have been more blown away by the community response. It is such a privilege to be part of organising these events alongside our volunteers, staff and all involved,” she said.
“We have been honoured by these artists, their time, their creations, and their bravery in sharing their vulnerabilities.”
The event featured a Youth-Led Art Competition, co-designed by headspace Knox’s Youth Action Force (YAF), alongside guided art tours, speeches, music and refreshments.
Entries came from young people aged 12 to 25 across Knox, Maroondah, Yarra Ranges and beyond, including paintings, drawings and mixed media pieces. Each artwork explored the questions: What does diversity and harmony mean to you? What makes “me”, me? What does mental health and/or wellbeing mean to you? And what does community mean to you?
Centre manager, Amanda Thomas said it was a privilege to be part of the headspace Knox and Lilydale ArtSpace celebrations.
“These events were powerful, showcasing the creativity, courage and voices of young people across our region,” she said.
“This competition was inspired by the talent we knew existed, but we didn’t realise how meaningful this opportunity would be for so many young people, their families and the wider community.”
“The Make Space Art Competition is more than
an exhibition, it’s a space where ideas become images, feelings take shape, and young people’s inner worlds are seen, heard and valued.”
“Through the artworks, we witnessed honesty, talent and the courage it takes to express what mental health means on a personal level. It reminds us that mental health is not one story, but many, each unique and worthy of recognition.”
A member of the youth action force, Miranda Bunting said the project was driven by a desire to transform how the space feels.
“Clinical environments can feel sterile or intimidating, especially when you’re having a tough time, we wanted to change that,” Ms Bunting said.
“Filling the walls with art by young people
sends a message that this space belongs to us, when someone walks in for their first appointment, they shouldn’t just see a clinic - they should see their peers, their struggles and their creativity.”
“Art expresses what words often can’t. It connects our inner experiences to the outside world and helps us process difficult feelings.”
“Every piece here represents courage. Sharing your inner world is scary, but that vulnerability is why this exhibition matters. It gives visibility to every story and builds community by reminding us we’re not alone.”
First-place winner for headspace Knox, Teagan, said she’s very grateful of the opportunity.
Second-place winner, Maya, said she truly be-
lieve art and music can save lives because it saved mine.
And third-place winner, Ginger, said the artwork was a step in her healing journey after struggling with mental health.
“I hope it can help others feel they should live too,” she said.
Other participants spoke about what creating art meant to them.
“I want to be the reason someone believes in goodness again, the reason someone smiles, or finds the courage to keep going.” Sheridan said.
Another participant, Adele said, “I’m excited that my artwork is part of this showcase.” while Monika said it was an honour to create an artwork for the community.
“It helped me break out of my nine–five routine and overcome an artist’s block. I’d stopped painting for a while, and this project helped me rediscover what I love most,” she said.
Young people aged 12 to 25, and their families, can access support through headspace Knox or Lilydale, or via eheadspace from 3pm to 10pm (AEDT) on 1800 650 890.
For immediate help, Lifeline is available on 13 11 14, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, and 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
Opendoor participants celebrate community success
By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
The Opendoor initiative participants came together at Glen Park Community Centre in Bayswater North to celebrate the culmination of a six-month project that has left a tangible mark across the Yarra Ranges.
The project was a partnership between Opendoor, Yarra Ranges Council community gardens, and Glen Park Community Centre, where participants designed and built handcrafted all-ability tables, garden beds, and outdoor furniture for six local community gardens.
The initiative aimed to enhance accessibility, promote creativity, and develop practical skills among participants - all while enriching public spaces for the broader community.
Glen Park Community Centre’s chief executive officer, Heidi Butler-Moore said the project’s impact reached far beyond the gardens themselves.
“We’ve been able to provide long-term, vulnerable, disengaged job seekers the opportunity to not only learn carpentry skills, but also to give back to the community while they’re doing that, and that’s such a powerful way to empower somebody to make a different decision for their future employment,” she said.
“It saves lives. It changes lives. And if you’re giving somebody the appetite to consider going into paid employment, that in itself is powerful. The end result is that six community gardens - that’s six communities - now have access to accessible furniture. It’s an amazing outcome. Who would have thought that you’d get a 360 out of one project?”
Ms Butler-Moore said the most rewarding part of the project was seeing the gardens receive the furniture and observing the growth of the facilitator, Steven Kline.
“The work Steven has done, and the growth I have seen in him, has been, for me personally, the biggest reward out of the whole lot of it,” she said.
“He has stepped up and been such an amazing leader. Obviously, what the community gets out of this project is huge, but for me, seeing the growth in our facilitator has been incredible. I
mean, seeing that happen has been extraordinary.”
Ms Butler-Moore said the project highlighted the broader impact and the role of partnerships.
“What this project does is highlight a strength in partnerships,” she said.
“Our partnership with Opendoor has certainly allowed us to grow as an organisation and benefit our community to no end. The regional manager, Ashley, has been instrumental in making sure this happens. Without women like Ashley in this industry, we would probably not have the wealth in our community that we do.”
“Every project reaches a whole new audience, helping young people, women returning to work, Indigenous job seekers, and long-term unemployed people gain skills and contribute to the community. It’s certainly something that will continue to happen with every cycle.”
The project delivered tangible benefits across six Yarra Ranges sites.
Contributions included three low-to-ground garden beds and a bench for Japara House in Kilsyth, two wheelchair-accessible garden beds for Healesville Community Garden, three raised wheelchair-accessible beds and an accessible table setting for Tecoma Community Garden,
four high-back benches and 24 garden signs for Edible Warburton, two raised wheelchair-accessible beds and two accessible table settings for Mount Evelyn, and two raised accessible beds and two accessible tables for ECOSS.
All scrap wood was transformed into garden ornaments and gifted to each community garden.
The project tutor and qualified carpenter, Steven Kline shared his perspective on designing and building the furniture.
“It was actually a Pinterest project, that’s where the idea came from and I just made a few adjustments to make it accessible for disability,” he said.
“A lot of the community centres around here don’t have much for those participants, the aim was to create a space that’s more inclusive for everybody. We ran a pilot program for Mooroolbark Community Gardens, which went really well, and then made some further adjustments to iron out the creases. In the end, we’ve provided furniture for six community centres, and hopefully they get a lot of value from it.”
“Some of our participants have complex disabilities, and it was wonderful to see them interact, develop friendships, and show patience and care for one another. That part really blos-
somed, and I was really proud to just watch it happen. It was something I didn’t expect, and it’s probably my proudest moment from the whole initiative.”
Mr Kline also reflected on the personal growth he experienced while overseeing the project.
“I’m not really a teacher, I didn’t really like school, which is why I became a tradesman but you learn you’ve got to open yourself up and bring out different parts of yourself,” he said.
“My compassion and understanding of others have grown, and I’m proud of that achievement because it’s something I’ve probably never unlocked before. To drive past the community centre and know that you’ve made an impact on the people who are really going to use it, it’s something I can show my kids, and they can be proud of.”
“The reach of this project spreads far beyond just the community shed, and that’s beautiful. Seeing different learners come together, forming friendships and growing in confidence, that’s the real success of this project for me.”
Looking ahead, Opendoor plans to continue the initiative.
“The next project will provide accessible furniture to five neighbourhood houses servicing all of Maroondah. Every project reaches a whole new audience, and I hope that every cycle continues to empower, upskill, and support our community,” Ms Butler-Moore said.
Community members, councillors, and project participants gather at Glen Park Community Centre to mark the initiative’s impact. (Shamsiya Hussainpoor: 524706)
L-R: Kasie Bebbington, Chelsea McNab, Heidi Butler-Moore, Ashlee Gervais, Councillors Catherine Gordon, Linda Hancock, Richard Higgins, Chris Jones, Kylie Spears, and Steven Kline. (Supplied)
Many gathered to celebrate young voices and creativity. (Supplied)
A showcase of young people’s artwork at the event.
Mayor looks back on year
I hope that this column finds you all ready to take some time to relax over the holiday break.
We’ve had a big year as a council, and I’m proud to have stepped into the mayoral role in November.
As highlighted in our 2024-25 Annual Report, our teams answered more than 100,000 calls, we’ve reconstructed 35,000 square metres of road, processed more than 1100 planning applications and diverted 45,000 tonnes of rubbish from landfill. All of this work has been done on behalf of, for and with our vibrant and diverse community.
We’ve had some great projects finish this year, a highlight is the opening the first 30 kilometres of the Warburton Mountain Bike Trail, and are
continuing the work towards finalising the Yarra Valley Trail and ngurrak barring.
There are now even more reasons to get out and explore our beautiful backyard, and I hope you take a chance to see more of the Yarra Ranges this summer.
I’m sure it will be another big year ahead, and I look forward to working with our staff, my fellow Councillors and the wider community to make it one of our best yet.
Just a reminder that our bin collections continue every public holiday, including Christmas and New Year’s Day. Make sure to
Best films of 2025: What made the list?
Twin films – when different studios make similar films at around the same time (think Antz and A Bug’s Life, or Deep Impact and Armageddon) – are a common phenomenon, but 2025 was the year of actors playing twins in films.
Michael B. Jordan plays the Smokestack Twins in Sinners and Robert Pattinson portrays multiple clones in Mickey 17 (both films have some of the best doubling effects in cinema history).
Theo James plays feuding brothers in The Monkey, and in Predator: Badlands, Elle Fanning plays sister androids and Cameron Brown plays an entire android squadron.
DespitethewidespreadNoKingsprotests,2025 was a huge year for Stephen King adaptations.
The Monkey, The Life of Chuck, The Long Walk, The Running Man and the shows The Institute and It: Welcome to Derry are all based on Stephen King stories, and Black Phone 2 is the sequel to a film based on a short story by Joe Hill, King’s oldest son.
This was also a banger year for movie villains.
Nicholas Hoult and Sean Penn both deserve Oscar nominations as Lex Luthor in Superman
CARTOON
and Colonel Lockjaw in One Battle After Another.
Other great villains this year include the witch aunt in Weapons, Void in Thunderbolts, Galactus in Fantastic Four, Isaiah in Him, Laura in Bring Her Back, Teddy in Bugonia, the hivemind vampires in Sinners and the Leopold family in Death of a Unicorn.
Here are my picks for the ten best films of 2025 • Black Phone 2. A highly-justified sequel full of
brutal chills, intrigue and heart.
• Companion. A taut, funny sci-fi chase thriller with potent commentary on controlling relationships and disingenuous “nice guys”, driven by riveting performances from Sophie Thatcher and Jack Quaid.
• 28 Years Later. A deeply moving character study amid the zombie postapocalypse, with plenty of gory terror but a surprising degree of warmth and hope.
• Nosferatu. A supremely-atmospheric masterpiece from Robert Eggers, suffused with dread, stunning cinematography and remarkable performances, especially from Lily RoseDepp and Bill Skarsgård.
• Sinners. A macabre, funny, invigorating film, with richly-developed characters, nuanced villains, rousing music and a slow, deliberate first act that shifts smoothly to bloody Grindhouse excitement.
• Together. Shot in the Yarra Ranges, Together is a fascinating, deeply unsettling film blending marital strife with body horror.
• Frankenstein. The self-described culmina-
put your bins out and don’t forget to check your hard waste collection date, as collections will run from late-January to March next year. With the warmer weather and the approaching bushfire season, everyone should have a plan for what to do when the worst happens. An emergency plan should always factor in your trigger to leave early and what happens with pets and livestock.
On behalf of my fellow councillors and council staff, I’d like to wish you all a safe and merry Christmas, and an excellent new year.
tion of director Guillermo del Toro’s life as an artist, Frankenstein is a breathtaking Gothic fairytale, a faithful but inventive adaptation of Mary Shelley’s novel, and sees Oscar Isaac and Jacob Elordi flourish as the dashing but despicable Victor and the imposing but sympathetic monster.
• A House of Dynamite. A grounded, finelytuned three-part thriller from Kathryn Bigelow that hits like a meteorite, A House of Dynamite has such a tense, stressful build that you’ll forget to breathe.
• Train Dreams. A sad, sublime historical drama that nourishes the heart like no other film this year, built on simple, no-frills, powerful filmmaking.
• The Long Walk. Beyond the incredibly engaging dialogue, well-developed characters and sombre Depression-era imagery, this has some of the most gut-wrenchingly suspenseful scenes of the year and it’s not even a horror movie.
Seth Lukas Hynes
‘ELMWOOD’
- PURE QUALITY ON OVER AN ACRE
‘ELMWOOD’ - PURE QUALITY ON OVER AN ACRE
WHEN you expect the best in life and have high expectations on quality and elegant design elements then ‘Elmwood’ is the home for you.
Beautifully located on a quiet sealed road this gated, fenced acreage property shaded with magnificent Elms, with water features, its own creek, ornate stonework, multiple pathways, textural plantings plus a half court basketball play space offers so much for your new home.
Whilst it is ‘high end’, featuring Victorian Ash floors, ornate plasterwork and cornices, solid timber doors, including a Rose Oak entry, double hung picture windows and light airy rooms with 10 ft ceilings, it is also thoughtfully designed for family living and connection both indoors and outside, the wide verandah is sure to be a summer favourite.
There are four living areas including the Great Room with bespoke chandelier, tray ceilings and a gas log fire, the adjacent dining room will make entertaining a lavish occasion with seating room for at least twelve, a lounge room with French doors that lead out to the BBQ deck, and a theatre/music room for popcorn spilling family fun. With a near new Smeg oven and six burner cooktop, the central kitchen boasts prep space, excellent storage, and pretty garden views.
All four bedrooms have built in robes, the master suite is well proportioned giving space and privacy featuring a luxury ensuite with a deep, stress relieving bath. The remaining bedrooms are serviced by a family bathroom with bath and shower; a separate powder room is convenient for busy families. A spacious study is perfect for working from home, and there is a spacious laundry with a drying cupboard.
For the wine connoisseur there is a large cellar/ or storage room. There are multiple split systems, a gas log fire, hydronic heating (even for the dog kennels x 2!) for extra comfort.
Completing this wonderful estate is a triple remote garage with workshop, double carport, irrigation points in the garden, shedding, cubbyhouse, attic storage and more.
Just minutes to Emerald Township, yet far enough away to enjoy tranquillity, ‘Elmwood’ should be first on your list. ●
‘KYEWONG VILLA’ - A UNIQUE RESIDENCE
‘KYEWONG Villa’ - A unique residence on an open and sunny ¾ acres.
Part of the prestigious golf course estate built from the 1920’s, this unique, private, character-filled home is sure to pique your interest.
Overlooking the inground pool and surrounded by well-established trees, including an orchard, this property will make the ideal getaway for those looking to settle in Emerald in a highly sought-after location.
Featuring 3 bedrooms, the main with pool views, 1 spacious bathroom, lounge with custom coonara fireplace and bespoke cabinetry, a central kitchen/meals and euro laundry.
This ‘one of a kind’ residence has some wonderful quirks and historical fittings, wood panelling, double hung windows, high ceilings with strapping and beautiful hardwood timber floors.
Outdoors is a wonderland of native and exotic gardens, lush lawns and locally sourced stone walls, steps and pathways, a wonderful way to spend a lazy summers day, would be on the verandah, gin and tonic in hand, cricket on the radio and when it gets a little too warm, wandering down to the pool for a refreshing dip.
In a quiet no through road, accessed via sealed driveway, Poplar Crescent is at the rear where a second driveway is available.
Emerald Township is nearby, shops, restaurants, community hub, library, sporting clubs, walks and much more.
This is a home with great style and one that offers the country life that you deserve. ●
HOME ESSENTIALS
Address: 20 Sycamore Avenue, EMERALD Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom Price: $880,000 - $968,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 and Caiti Ellis 0493 136 937, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL - BELGRAVE
upon
YOUR PEACEFUL SLICE OF PARADISE
JUST 10 minutes from Belgrave this property gives you both peace and quiet but also connects to community and infrastructure.
Step inside to a light-filled, open-plan living zone where a stylish renovation by a master craftsman blends character, warmth, and modern practicality. This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom brick home is turnkey ready, with timber oak floors flowing through vaulted ceilings, a cozy wood fire, gas ducted heating, and a split system for year-round comfort.
The kitchen is a showstopper: Tasmanian Oak benchtops, island breakfast bar, induction cooktop, integrated 900mm Westinghouse oven, fridge recesses, pantry, and loads of storage — perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Dining spills onto a covered rear verandah surrounded by succulents, rock walls, and native gardens.
The master suite features built-in robes, a ceiling fan, and ensuite, while two further bedrooms are carpeted with built-ins and ceiling fans. A sleek European laundry adds convenience, plus there is a storage shed, garden shed, off-street parking, and 1.2kW solar for eco-friendly living. Let the kids (and pets) loose in the fully fenced tiered yard, complete with a trampoline, tyre swing, and climbing trees. The large Merbau deck sets the scene for alfresco living with garden views and a serene backdrop.
Bonus: a brand-new, multi-use studio with sliding doors to its own verandah — ideal as a rumpus room, home office, art studio, or teen/ guest retreat.
A great Set perfectly between Belgrave and Emerald, with a bus stop at the end of the street to Belgrave train station. Lowmaintenance, versatile, and brimming with charm — this property is perfect as an investment, or an Airbnb-style getaway for visitors exploring the Dandenong Ranges, or the idyllic home for you. ●
YourPeacefulsliceofParadiseinMenziesCreek
Stepinside to a light-filled,open-plan living zonewhere astylishrenovation by a mastercraftsmanblendscharacter,warmth,andmodern practicality.This3-bedroom, 2-bathroombrick homeisturnkeyready, withtimber oakfloorsflowingthrough vaulted ceilings, acozywoodfire,gas ductedheating,and asplitsystemforyear-round comfort. Ashowstopperkitchen:Tasmanian Oakbenchtops,islandbreakfastbar,induction cooktop, integrated900mm Westinghouseoven,fridge recesses,pantry& storage
MickDolphin 0429684522
AuNIquERESIDENCE
‘KyewongVilla’- Open &sunny3/4acre Partoftheprestigiousgolfcourseestatebuiltfromthe1920’s,thisunique,private, characterfilled homeissuretopique yourinterest. Overlookingthe inground pool and surroundedby well-established trees,includingan orchard,this propertywill makethe idealgetaway forthoselookingtosettleinEmeraldin ahighlysoughtafterlocation.This ‘oneofa kind’residencehassomewonderfulquirksandhistorical fittings,wood panelling, doublehungwindows,high ceilingswith strappingand beautifulhardwoodtimberfloors.
MickDolphin 0429684522
Caitiellis 0493136937
COnteMPOrArYrAnCHOn½ ACre,tUrnKeYreADY. Stillsearchingforthatperfectfamilyhomeofferingversatilityandthelatest‘ontrend’ interior,withnothingtodo,justmoveinandenjoy?Itsenviablelocationiswithin walkingdistancetoEmeraldtownship,boththeprimaryandsecondaryschool,cafes andcommunity.bathedingloriousall-daysunshine,thisfullyusablehalf-acreproperty providesendlessspaceforchildrentoplay,whilethewraparoundverandahcreatesthe perfectstageforanidyllicAustralianindoor/outdoorlifestyle
Caitiellis 0493136937 HillsideHavenAwaits
HILLSCHARMWITHA MODERNTWIST
Discovertheperfectbalanceoftranquilhillslivingandmoderncomfortinthisbeautifully renovatedhome,nestledinoneofKallista’smostsoughtafterstreets.Designedto embracebothlifestyleandpracticality,thisuniquepropertyoffersspacetoentertain roomtogrow,andanidyllicconnectionwithnature.Stepinsideandbewelcomedby soaringvaultedtimberceilings,expansivewallsofdouble-glazedglass,andlight-filled livingzonesspreadoverthreedistinctlevels
Grantskipsey 0418528102
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 ½ 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!
RusticCountryLivingonOveranAcre
Privatelytuckedawayattheendofa no-throughroad,thisrustichomesitsona beautiful,flat 4,600sqm(approx.)blocksurroundedbyestablishedfruittrees,a holdingpaddock,sheds,andplenty ofopenspaceforallyourvehicles,hobbies,andtoys.Thehomeitselfiscozyandfullofcharm, featuring3 bedrooms, 1bathroom,andanopenplankitchenandlounge,itprovidescomfortable livingwithloadsofpotential.Extrasincludesolarpanelswitha 5KWsystem,roundaboutdriveway andcarport.Thelifestyleandpotentialherearetrulyendless.
RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068
18BrettRoad,Warburton$1,800,000
‘ForgetMeNotCottages’ –StunningResidencewith3 SeparateCottages
“ForgetMeNotCottages”issetjusta shortstrollfromtheYarraRiver,walkingtrailandcolourfulcafes, setonover2 acres(8195sq.m)ofgardensthatofferprivacyandpeace.A magnificent,imposing multilevelled3 bedroommainresidencewithstrikingarchitectureand afascinatinguseofwonderful naturalmaterials.Theguestaccommodationisofferedviafouruniqueareas,threecottagesand oneconnectingapartmentadjacenttothemainbuilding.Anamazingopportunitytoacquirean incredibleiconichomeandwellestablishedbusinessin aboomingareaoftheYarraValley.
RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068 Inspection: ByAppointment
VacantLandin aFantasticRuralLocation
Asensationalparcelofvacantlandofjustover 5acresandsituatedina privateandpicturesque semiruralsetting.Beautifulrollingpastureandoverlookinglargeacreageandscatteredbush,the wholefamilywilllovethewideopenspacetoexploreandenjoy.Escapethecitylifeandcomeand enjoytherelaxedpeacefulcountrylifestyle!A gloriouslocationwithstunningsceneryandsurrounds, arareandhardtofindsmallacreageallotment. 65LewisRoad,HoddlesCreek $730,000 -$780,000
DavidCarroll M 0419539320 Inspection: ByAppointment
ImpeccablyPresentedModernHome –MinutesfromtheYarraRiver
Thisimpeccablypresentedmodernhomeoffersaninvitingblendofcomfort,styleandlifestyle appeal.Inside,thehomefeaturesthreebedrooms,includinga mainbedroomwithensuiteand walk-inrobe.Fromthelivingarea,doorsopenouttoa large,all-weathercoveredpatiothat’sideal foroutdoordiningorrelaxation,surroundedbycolourful,privategardens.Completingtheappealis acharminggardenstudiowithitsowndeck,idealforcreativepursuits,a homeofficeoradditional storage.Thisis awarm,welcominghomethatoffersanexceptionallifestyle.
FantasticAcreageViews& CharmingHomein aPrivateLocation Thissuperbacreagelifestyleawaitsyou.Setonover19acreswith amixofclearedpastureandbush, it’stheidealplacetorelaxandenjoythescenery.Boasting4 bedroomsover 2levelsplusa large office/studyandworkfromhomesetup.Stepoutsideandenjoycovereddeckingandanalfresco/ BBQarea -justthespottorelaxandenjoytheYarraValleyviews.A largehighclearancecarport andbarnofferplentyofcar,truckandcaravanaccommodation.A propertyin agloriousand privatelocation,withfantasticviewsandscenery.
DavidCarroll M 0419539320
FAMILY LIVING AT ITS BEST
IMPRESSIVE both inside and out, this perfectly sized property delivers an ideal blend of quality, comfort and convenience. Wellbuilt and beautifully maintained, the home sits proudly in the heart of Belgrave Heights/ South-just a short walk to Belgrave South Primary School, local sports oval, shops and public transport.
For families wanting a home that truly has it all, this is the one!
Inside, the home offers four generously sized bedrooms, home office (or smaller fifth bedroom), two bathrooms and two separate living areas, giving everyone space to relax, play and unwind.
The modernised kitchen provides excellent bench space, great storage and seamless connection to both the meals area and the undercover outdoor entertaining zone, making everyday living easy and gatherings effortless.
Warmth is assured year-round with underfloor hydronic heating and a cosy wood heater in the lounge. Multiple glass sliding doors, have been added that are perfect for letting the cool evening breeze sweep through on warm nights.
Set on a fully useable, fenced 981m² (approx.) block, the yard has been lovingly cared for and offers loads of space for kids and pets. There are also multiple sheds for extra storage. Parking is a breeze, with a double carport plus an additional single carport-ideal for families with multiple vehicles, trailers or recreational gear.
This is an outstanding package in a highly sought-after position-a must-see for any growing family searching for space, comfort and convenience in the beautiful Belgrave Heights community. ●
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
1 Related to sound (5)
4 Retreat, climb down (9)
9 Of equal value (2,3)
10 Closest to the centre (9)
11 Workroom for an artist, photographer, etc. (6)
12 Plant scientist (8)
14 Inexorable (10)
15 Termination (3)
17 Stomach muscles (3)
19 Exaggerated representation (10)
23 Stigmatise (8)
24 Beauty treatment (6)
26 With many uses (9)
27 Temperate (5)
28 Assertion (9)
29 Pulled (5)
1 Marriage partner (6) 2 Roman equivalent of the Greeks’ Poseidon (7)
Crimson (7) 4 Temporary release (4)
Sympathy (10) 6 Maybe (7)
7 Plants absorb carbon – (7) 8 Leeway (8)
13 Pretty (10)
16 Island group in the Indian Ocean (8)
18 Drink made with wine, fruit and brandy (7)
19 Bravery (7)
20 Passage (7)
21 Colourful arc (7)
22 Redfaced (6)
25 Cosy retreat (4)
It’s a big sponsorship win
By Oliver Winn
The Wandin Cricket Club received a game changing $75,000 sponsorship from the Community Bank Wandin-Seville to overhaul its training facilities.
Announced by the Community Bank WandinSeville on 28 November, the sponsorship will fund the construction of three new cricket nets to accommodate the growing club.
Wandin Cricket Club president Bryce Edwards said he was “honoured and chuffed” to receive the sponsorship.
“We’ve got a great relationship with them, they’re our major sponsor and then to be supported by them to get brand new nets, we couldn’t be happier. They do so much for our community,” Mr Edwards said.
The club was struggling to host training on a Thursday night and some teams were required to travel to Saxon Sports in Croydon to train.
But Mr Edwards said the new nets would keep the club together on a Thursday night.
“That’s a massive benefit to us, and it keeps our community together. It keeps our men together training with the women’s. It means our Thursday nights are still great because we’re all together rather than split up,” he said.
Community Bank Wandin-Seville executive officer Leah Thompson said the bank had a long history with the club.
“We have sponsored the Wandin Cricket Club for many years, our first sponsorship to them was back in 2007, but back then it was more occasional,” Ms Thompson said.
“Then in 2021 the club was struggling and they approached us for sponsorship, and since then we have built a really strong and stable partnership with the club and its members.
“We have sponsored their uniforms, women’s team, pink stumps day, it’s been a really great working relationship the last four years.”
The new nets enabled the club to support its
many teams, which includes two women’s teams - making them one of five clubs in the Ringwood and District Cricket Association to have more than one women’s team.
Ms Thomspon said facilitating sporting clubs was a rewarding feat for the bank, as it recognised the vital role sport plays in the Yarra Ranges.
“Sport plays a major role in bringing people together here in Wandin and we know how much quality facilities and equipment mean to local clubs. Helping create spaces the community can be proud of is exactly why we do what we do,” she said.
Mr Edwards voiced support for the Community Bank Wandin-Seville as it had contributed a
lot of funds back into the community.
“Again our message is pretty clear, support your local Bendigo Bank, because they support your community, no one else does,” Mr Edwards said.
The nets will also serve a range of activities, doubling as a multifunctional space.
The sponsorship will fund three new cricket nets at the club grounds. (Supplied)
It will help the club host more training sessions at the ground.
The club announced the sponsorship on Thursday 27 November.
Volunteer hits the Mark
By Gabriella Vukman
Twelve years ago when Lilydale local Mark Southall started archery with his daughter, being recognised by Archery Australia was not something he foresaw.
Awarded runner-up Volunteer of the Year by Archery Australia for hitting the mark with his service in the establishment of the Wandin Indoor Archery facility, Mark’s collaboration with Archery Victoria, and Sherbrooke Archers to organise and hold the State Indoor Matchplay events at the new indoor centre was also recognised.
Recently voted in as president at the Yering District Archers Club, Mark said, “I was very shocked the other day to find out I got this award. I was probably speechless for the first time in my life.
“I almost fell over”.
Awarded runner-up volunteer of the year by Archery Australia, Mark has been instrumental in building the new Wandin Indoor facility.
Mark said, “Archery Victoria put out a notice to all clubs to see if one of us could hold an indoor event.”
“We didn’t have an indoor facility so I said ‘Let’s see what I can do’”.
Mark found a spot in Wandin East (the badminton courts) and get some spokespeople from Archery Victoria to see if they could get it going as an indoor archery facility.
After five weeks of immense effort, negotiations, and refits, the badminton courts had been turned into a fully operational indoor range, nicknamed the Big Green Set.
Mark said, “It has been so successful.”
“The Big Green Set has now been running for three years and our numbers are increasing every year,” he said.
“In the last two years, Archery Victoria has given us the State Indoor Match Play, which is a
shoot off between the best archers of the year. It’s a big deal.”
When prompted as to what drew him to archery initially, Mark responded “just a bit of luck.”
“It’s something I had done as a kid and twelve years ago a neighbour got us involved and my daughter wanted to start,” Mark said.
Initially commencing the sport as a hobby, Mark’s daughter recently went to Ireland to represent Australia in the International Archery Championships.
Volunteering at his local club is something Mark does off his own bat.
“It is just what you do. I put a lot of effort into the club because I love it and I do it for the archers and to create a good environment,” Mark said.
“I am completely blown away that I got this award.”
“I just wanted to make things better for the club and better for the archers,” he said.
Mark wishes to thank the Yering Archery Club, Archery Australia, and Archery Victoria along with many others who helped out along the way.
“We have got a fantastic club and all of the members are very proactive about making it a better club,” Mark said.
Already brimming with ideas to carry through as new president of the Yering District Archery Club, Mark can’t wait to start hitting targets and leading as an example.
“I think I’d like to see us getting more new people to come and try archery on the weekends at our club,” Mark said.
“There are also things we need to raise money for to get new target butts and all of that to make the shooting better for the archers there,” he said.
“The club has already made such great progress in these areas. I can’t wait to carry on their good work.”
Currently recovering from a back injury, Mark looks forward to resuming shooting at the range soon.
Wins all round at Warburton Bowls Club
By Garry Lewis
A very successful week for the Warburton Bowls Club with all three Pennant Teams winning in the lead up to a most enjoyable Christmas Party at the club on Saturday evening.
Hot conditions on Saturday saw all rinks occupied with both sides playing at home in an exciting double header.
The weekend Division Two Warburton One side playing Ferntree Gully One started strongly to develop a handy overall lead. The experienced opposition never gave up and fought back before the Burras steadied in the finish to record a well-deserved victory, 107 shots to 70, three rinks up.
Rink scores were:
S. Lord 28/ 14; T. Appleton 28/ 25; R. McKail 16/ 22 and C. Neale 35/ 9.
The Burras face another challenge against top side Mooroolbark One away this weekend, leading into the festive break.
The seconds also started their game strongly against Croydon Four to develop a good lead by the break, with all rinks up. However, the visitors fought back strongly in the second half and with three rinks completed and one end to play, overall scores were level, 70 shots a piece.
The Burras chances relied on Peter Woods’ rink in the finish.
Two brilliant bowls from Michelle Foord, put the pressure on Croydon as their skipper’s final shot went wide leaving the Burras one shot up in an exciting finish, 71 shots to 70.
Rink scores were P. Summers 16/ 23; D. Nisbet 16/ 11; P. Woods 22/ 19 and S. Darwall 17/ 17. They play Mitcham Four away this Saturday before the break.
Warburton’s Midweek side continued their winning ways at Mooroolbark on Tuesday, but it was a very close result with one rink carrying the team home.
A comfortable lead for the Burras at the break was dramatically reduced towards the end.
But Warburton managed to hang on overall to record the win, 60 shots to 54, and move into second place on the ladder.
Rink scores were: A. Dostie 16/ 17, R. McKail 27/ 15 and G. Walsh 17/ 22.
The Burras play Ferntree Gully One at home this week, in the last game before the Festive break.
Another lovely summer’s evening for the Jack Attack Triples Competition last Wednesday.
Karen Swankie from the Stirling Effort Team, won the prize for the first person to hit the jack, to match her husband, David, who achieved the same result three weeks ago.
Kevin Robinson and a new player, Rosa Bullas, won prizes for the being the best dressed in the Christmas Theme.
After seven rounds, the teams are in the following order on the ladder.
Can’t Remember, Pensioners, Gunners, Bowls to the Wall, Wessie Wonders, Bowl Movement, Thomos, LaLa’s, Giddy Gout, Stirling Effort, Sheep Assist, Lawn Rangers, Hit the Jack, Bowl Controllers, T.B.C and Bowled and the Beautiful.
The next round after the Festive Holiday break will be held on Wednesday 21 January, 2026.
The Annual Tradge Woods Triples Tourna-
Hot conditions on Saturday saw all rinks occupied with both sides playing at home in an exciting Double Header. (Supplied)
ment will be held on Saturday 10 January during the break with all positions already filled.
Also, the Annual Pink Ribbon Triples Tournament will be held on Sunday 1 February, 2026, from 12pm.
Female and male entries accepted of all abilities, including beginners.
$10 per player ($30 per team).
Entries in by 24 January. Contact Michelle Foord 0437 566 238 or the cub 5966 2391.
Three games, raffles and prizes and a BBQ sausage sizzle held during the day.
All proceeds to go towards breast cancer research.
The free Warburton Bowls Club Barefoot Bowls evenings continued last Friday with another good crowd in attendance enjoying the fine weather.
Each week so far there have been several new participants joining in the fun.
It will continue every Friday from 6pm to 9pm over the Festive and Holiday season, except for Boxing Day.
All community members, families and friends are encouraged to join in the fun.
All equipment, coaching and music provided. BBQ food and raffle tickets are available at a small cost.
Social bowls continues each Monday from 12 midday.
For more information contact the club.
Horse talk
By Anita Prowse
Well thankfully weather held out for us on Sunday for the Yarra Valley Horse Show, and it was not too hot either, as last year was a bit of a hot one.
The Pony Club Junior Highpoint was won by Clare Bickerton on Wyann Forget Me Not from Euroa Pony Club.
Senior Highpoint was won by Marley O’Connor on Rosie from Upper Yarra Pony Club.
The $250 Eminent Turnout winner was Brooke Mitchiner on Kensington Miss America, with Runner Up Cleo Billings on Gatsby FF Wells Applause.
Topsy rider of the day was won by Henry Gust on Sundance.
We thank all the competitors for supporting us, our amazing sponsors and of course all the helpers and organisers of the day.
As always we look forward to next year.
We have our annual Christmas rally Sunday 21, and then straight into it for 2026 with our Australia Day Freshmans, if weather is warmer we will use the cooler grass arena, and entries are on the day.
We haven’t quite tallied up all our Cancer Council fundraising yet, but happy to report some very generous donations so thank you everyone.
Getting the bullseye award for hitting the mark with his service. (Supplied).
Warburton performed strongly over the week, with multiple sides taking victories. (Supplied)
Senior Highpoint winner Marley and Rosie. (Supplied)
Tuesday wins for Healesville
By Ian Milgate
Tuesday’s Side 1 played Boronia at home and we knew it was going to be tough as Boronia were in fifth place and Healesville were on the bottom of the ladder.
But still there seemed to be a quiet confidence about the side with a few changes of players in rinks, including Mick Featherstone and Steve Graham elevated to skips. Healesville came out of the blocks fairly well and by the break, they were even. After the break, Healesville were starting to pull away up until, with 6 ends to go, it could have been either side that won, but with a couple of good ends from Steve and Gary, while Mick’s rink was still pushing forward, it finished up very close but they came away with a win by 7 shots, 68/61. A great effort by everyone.
Bob Brown, Anne Knibbs, Rita Featherstone, Gary Broussard 16/24
Gerda Otto, Robyn Turville, Rob Broadhurst, Steve Graham 17/27
Colin Jarvis, Ian Milgate, Steve Bulled, Mick Featherstone 35/10
Tuesday’s second side played Eastwood Bowls Club at home and they needed to win to stay in second place. All rinks came out strong with Robert Ayres rink and Damian Key’s rink taking a good lead and by half time, they had a comfortable lead. After the break, all three rinks continued to put in some great bowls and in the end, Healesville were too strong for Eastwood winning by 29 shots, 71/42. Well done everyone, keep the good work up.
Russell Smith. Jim Viggers, Leonie Fitzpatrick, Robert Ayres 30/11
Karl Tok, Glenda Graham, John McMillan, Damian Key 28/7
Tina Macari, John Allen, Mark Cookney, Bernard Godde 13/24
Saturday’s Side 1 played at home against Heathmont. When they last played, Heathmont beat Healesville by 18 shots so Healesville were keen to return the favour on their home ground, which would keep them in second place on the
ladder. Heathmont got the jump on them from the start and by half time, Healesville were trailing by 28 shots. After the break, they started to show some improvement in all the rinks but were unable to push hard enough with only a few ends left and finally went down by 13 shots, 68/81.
Gerda Otto, Mick Featherstone, Robyn Turville, Adrian Beales 18/20
Col Jarvis, Rob Broadhurst, Steve Graham, Mark Ward 7/30
Saturday’s Side 2 played away at Chirnside Park. They needed to win to stay above Chirnside Park/Eastwood GC on the ladder. All rinks started off well and by the half time break, there was only one shot in it 30/31.
Ready for the challenge, Eagles swoop in
By Elly Byrne
We are pleased to report a great week of bowling from all of our Eagles this week.
Three games, three wins going into the midpoint of the season is extremely encouraging.
The Midweek Division Four needed a good win being at the bottom of the ladder, and the home game against Croydon was the opportunity to step up.
Step up they did starting strongly on all rinks and continuing throughout the day edging further and further in front to a 99/ 28 victory.
All three rinks reached above the 30 shot mark.
Despite the great result the bottom rung of the ladder still belongs to YJBC.
However, the good news is, now only 13 shots separate third position from eighth.
This emphasises the importance of a win to remain in contention for the second half of the season.
The next and last match for the year is home game against Eastwood Golf who hold top spot.
The Eagles are ready for the challenge.
The weekend teams both also performed extremely well.
Division Six played at home against Lilydale, in muggy conditions determined to perform well after losing to Lilydale away by four points in the first round.
The home ground advantage, some great play and steady progress worked well for three rinks whilst the fourth rink had more of a battle with many winning shots being taken by some well-placed opposition upshots.
On the last end at 17/15 a draw was possible but the Eagles’ skipper’s last bowl saved the day reducing the two shot opposition win to one.
Final score 17/16 with an overall team score of 104 to 53. Next week the Eagles fly to Cockatoo.
Division Eight played Monbulk away for the first time this season as their previous set match in round three was washed out.
It was a tough but friendly match played in humid conditions.
A rally after the break resulted in two rinks pulling ahead and the third falling short by just four shots.
A final result 55/45 in the Eagles favour also keeps them well positioned going into the Christmas break being second on the ladder only four points behind Berwick. Next weeks game will be at Healesville on a tougher green.
The club has and continues to host many pre-Christmas functions, including bowls and dinner at the club.
Tino Micari, Jude Wallace, John Howard, Mike Adams 27/15
Jill Cookney, Judy Veermann, Russel Smith, Bernard Godde 29/15
After the break, everyone started to get bowls in the head and started to draw away, and the opposition had no answers with Healesville winning by 23 shots, 74/51. Well done everyone, keep up the good work. Karl
One victory
By Rodney Bates
In midweek pennant, Side 1 played home against Croydon.
A couple of late withdrawals from Yarra Glen’s side gave the selectors some headaches, but they managed to find some good replacements, and in a close contest, we managed to get the win 61-50 (14 points). P. Leonard 26/11; A. James 15/22; L. Thurkle 20/17.
Side 2 played away at Donvale. At the lunch break, Yarra Glen held a slender 1 shot lead, however Donvale rallied and eventually taking the points 43-59. D. McMenaman 13/15; T. Dickson 11/25; L. Baker 19/19. On Saturday, Side 1 played at Diamond Creek. The Creek proved too strong overall to see Yarra Glen go down 64-88 (2 points). Beau Simmons 18/24; M. Creighton 20/12; Ben Simmons 11/22; M.Gardner 15/28. Side 2 travelled to Ferntree Gully. Always a challenge on their fast synthetic. Yarra Glen had a good lead, but after the break a huge turnaround saw Ferntree Gully surge to the win. Final score 72-88 (4 points). R. Thurkle 29/25; S. Smith 21/17; B. Grund 7/30; A. Thurkle 15/16.
This is a great way to spend some summer fun time with family and friends. Follow our Facebook page for updates.
Thank you to all who have booked enjoyed and assisted at these functions. We value your support and look forward to many more events at your local bowls club. Barefoot bowls is back starting Friday 9 January at 6.30 pm.
Side 3 played at home against Cockatoo. Despite the team having had to make substantial player changes, with 4 different skips to previous weeks, the team managed a solid win 91-53 (16 points). T. Dickson 22/11; D. McMenaman 29/11; M. Ramage 34/7; G. McBride 6/24.
Bob Brown, Chris Hawting, Steve Bulled, Robert Ayres 28/14
Ian Milgate, Anne Knibbs, Rita Featherstone, Gary Broussard 15/17
Tok, Glenda Graham, John McMillan, Mark Cookney 18/21
Healesville Bowls Club results. (File)
First year pennant players Mark and Steve after the win at Monbulk. (Supplied)
Yarra Glen’s Lyn Baker bowling into the head with Bruce Youl. (Supplied)
Century for Worlley in Second XI victory
By Kieran Cantwell
First XI
We were very relieved to get a Saturday without too much rain about, as our First XI played Lilydale away.
Bowling first, spinner Tyson Gaskett took an early wicket, but Lilydale set about building an innings.
At 111 Jai Gupta broke through and Adam Dunn took two more after that.
Lilydale closed their innings at 6-208.
Tight bowling by Lilydale in our batting innings saw runs hard to come by, and wickets falling regularly.
Some starts, but other than 30 (29) from Matthew McConnell, it was slim pickings. 14-year-old Flynn Pritchard batted solidly in his First XI debut, facing out 45 balls for his eight runs. In the end we finished with 9-142 off the 40 overs, falling short by 66 runs.
Second XI
Hosting Yarra Junction at Woori Yallock reserve, our Second XI had a very solid team, and so batted first to see what we could make of the lightning quick outfield.
It was a good decision as Dean Worlley and Michael Nicholls put on a 156 run opening partnership, with Mick being dismissed for 74 from 61 balls just before drinks.
Dean went on with it after drinks and posted a magnificent ton, eventually dismissed for 109 (111).
Andy Van Der Vlugt then took advantage of the platform set by the openers and in a dev-
astating performance hit 75* from just 35 balls, including five maximums.
After our 40 overs, we posted 6-340, a mammoth total.
Yarra Junction naturally came out swinging, and did get some away, but our bowlers and fielders were disciplined, taking constant wickets.
Jackson Wright was impressive with 1-17 off eight, and Stephen Morgan chimed in with another two wickets, but it was the young at heart Marty White who continued his run of form with 4-33 off eight.
Yarra Junctions falling well short; dismissed in the 39th over for 189.
Third XI
Our Third XI took on South Croydon away and took the fight right to them.
Batting first there were a couple of standout performances.
Ben Hubbard returned to form with 62 runs, including an 80 run stand with his son Tayte, a marked improvement on the last time they batted together.
Skipper Stuart Parker was able to come in and free the arms, scoring a rapid 52* off 39 balls to get the total to 5-172 from 36 overs.
Alexander Mason got us off to a good start, bowling their opener, and from there it was a rollercoaster of tight bowling and big hitting.
It came down to the wire, with South Croydon just scraping past our score with only three balls left.
Fourth XI
At Wickhams again for our Fourth XI, this
A big win with many top performers for the
Junior girls on the rise
By Chris Handasyde
Stage1Girls – Healesville 94 defeated St Andrews 46
Healesville’s junior girls team are improving by the week. Bowling first, they took 8 wickets (Sopie Anastasio 2/3, Evie Matthews 2/5, Amelia Hall 1/4, Sienna Hall 1/7, Elodie Handasyde 1/1, Olivia English 1/8). Their batting innings included highest personal scores from Oliva English 18, Elodie Handasyde 17, Sophie Anastasio 15 and Ameilia Hall 11.
U12-3 Healesville 76 defeated by East Ringwood 1/86 (Alby Gotch 1/4, Otis Rowland 18, Arlo Turner 12)
U12-8 Healesville 4/48 defeated by Wandin 1/55
U14-3: Healesville won via Forfeit
U14-7: Healesville 151 defeated Warranwood 6/120 (Angus Morcombe 40 & 1/20, Jackson Lehman 17 & 1/12, Alby Gotch 15, Thomas Quaggin 1/7, Mason Kincaid 1/15, Jo Clarke 1/12)
U16-2: Healesville 3/165 defeated Mooroolbark 6/128 (Darcy English 41* & 1/14, Wyatt Coleman 29*, Raff Morcombe 28*, Max Ferris 27*, Henry Harding 20*, Pat Leonard 1/8, Sam Keath 1/22)
1st XI: Healesville 8/119 defeated by Templeton 9/187 (Max Wallace 29, Nic Zinghini 21, Mitch Tampaline 3/21, Josh Handasyde 3/39)
2nd XI: Healesville 144 defeated by Croydon Nth 6/146 (Lian English 42, Adam Keath 27, Mark Powell 22, Brenton Damrow 2/24, Dan Ferguson 2/28)
3rd XI: Healesville 126 defeated by East Ringwood 1/128 (Raff Morcombe 32, Aman Singh 19, Jesse Thomas 19, Prem Singh 1/23, Matt Wilko 1/11)
time hosting Healesville.
We batted first and lost many early wickets, looking in trouble at 6-46.
A rescue mission from Paul Broussard who scored 53* from 52 balls, and young Cameron Philpot who scored 25 runs, and has the possibly unique stat of outscoring both his dad and his mum in the same match.
We were eventually dismissed for a respectable 146.
With the ball there weren’t many highlights, but the ones we had were spectacular with Woori Yallock legend Andrew Ferguson taking an absolute screamer of a catch, certainly winding back the clock with that one.
Healesville passed the score two down in the 26th over.
U14
Our Juniors took on St Andrews away and looked to cement a top two spot in the process.
Bowling first; it was a real team effort with seven individual wicket takers, as well as two run outs restricting St Andrews to 130. Our batters got to work again, and retirements to Jacob Ahamad (22), Joel Pritchard (31) set the platform, and Alex Mason hit 25 and Mason McNeill 19 to get us to their total in the 23rd over, winning an important match up.
U12 and Mini-Bash
The Lusatia Park U12s took on Seville on Friday night, with Oscar and Abi taking wickets, and Oscar a run out, whilst Maxwell top scored with 16 runs in a loss.
The Mini-Bash kids took on Lilydale again, with Eden taking out the MVP for that match.
4th XI: Healesville 5/85 defeated Warranwood 82 (Tom Robinson 21*, Danny Hyndman 29* & 2/11, Mika Kerst 3/9, Taylor Caldicott 2/7, Nate Caldicott 2/12)
5th XI: Healesville 2/147 defeated Lusatia Park 146 (Alex Simmons 29*, Jeremy Newsome 53*, Zach Coleman 3/6, Emily McKie 2/16)
Grand
Healesville Tennis Club had another grand final win this week, with the Wednesday Section 2 mid-week ladies, beating Templeton 4 sets to 2 in a closely fought match. They will be promoted to Section 1 next season along with the Thursday mid-week ladies who also won their grand final last week.
Dean Worlley hit 109 off 111 balls against Yarra Junction. (Supplied)
Healesville junior girls. (Supplied)
L-R: Wendy Williamson, Barb D’Arcy, Kris Wenhuda, Michela Scully and Kate Bray. (Supplied)
