Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 10th March 2026

Springing ahead

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Two best mates from school, Olinda’s Bell Real Estate director, Zac Bell, and philanthropist Edward Dickey of Embers Trust have joined forces to launch

The Olinda Spring – a fundraising campaign aimed at providing clean water to communities overseas.

Drawing support t from a number of local businesses, Mr Bell said living in a place where we have rainforest conditions and access to clean drinking water every day makes you realise how lucky we are.

“We just turn on a tap and don’t give it a second thought but there are villages around the world where people don’t have this, and we wanted to help make a difference.”

The campaign is being run through ‘Charity: Water’, a globally recognised organisation that has funded tens of thousands of clean water projects across roughly 29 countries in Africa, Asia and beyond, helping communities gain access to safe, clean drinking water.

The fundraiser is aiming to raise $10,000 USD (just over $14,000 AUD) which will fund the construction of a clean water source in an underprivileged village to provide filtered water to schools, hospitals, or even entire towns.

Read more on page 10

Man avoids jail

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Mark Martinaj has avoided jail after being found guilty of beating his neighbours’ two dogs, Millie and Brinny, in an incident that shocked the local community.

The County Court handed down the sentence on Wednesday, 5 March, following an appeal against a two-month jail term previously imposed in Ringwood Magistrates Court.

Instead of imprisonment, Mr Martinaj received a 12-month adjourned undertaking, a

$1000 donation to the RSPCA, and an 18-month Community Correction Order - the also order includes anger management programs and 50 hours of unpaid community work.

The attack occurred in December 2024 when the Wood family’s Maltese Shih Tzu, Millie, and golden retriever, Brinny, entered Mr Martinaj’s backyard, which also housed chickens.

CCTV footage shown in the earlier hearing captured him arming himself with a pole and repeatedly striking the dogs over five minutes, with Millie suffering the brunt of the assault.

Both dogs were trapped inside by chicken wire that Mr Martinaj had erected across his driveway.

Brinny was examined by a veterinarian and, while unharmed physically, appeared distressed.

Millie’s whereabouts remain unknown, and a dead chicken was later found on the property.

County Court of Victoria’s judge, Diana Manova described the abuse as part of a vigilante campaign, noting ongoing harassment of Mr Martinaj and his family, including attacks on property, threats, arson, and provocative signage from the

Wood family.

She expressed concern about the impact of such behaviour on neighbourhood children and highlighted the personal toll on Mr Martinaj, acknowledging the fear and distress caused.

The judge said the abuse was “appalling, unjust and severe” and warranted a reduced sentence.

She stressed the importance of allowing people to serve their punishment without further torment.

Read the full story on page 2

L - R: Brad, Zac, Eddie and Aneke at the Storehouse Roastery cafe in Olinda. (Stewart Chambers: 538959)

Dog-beater avoids jail

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Mark Martinaj has escaped jail for beating the two dogs of his neighbours, the Wood family, following sentencing in the County Court on Wednesday 5 March.

Having appealed a sentence of two months’ imprisonment in the Ringwood Magistrates Court last year, Mr Martinaj was instead sentenced to a 12-month adjourned undertaking

with a $1000 donation to the RSPCA, along with an 18-month Community Correction Order requiring anger management programs and 50 hours of unpaid community work.

The Wood family’s Maltese Shih Tzu, Millie, and golden retriever, Brinny, entered Mr Martinaj’s property in December 2024. Court documents showed both dogs accessed the backyard, which contained chickens, before Mr Martinaj arrived home.

In the previous court hearing, a 13-minute segment of CCTV footage captured him arming himself with a pole-like implement and repeatedly striking the dogs over approximately five minutes with Millie receiving the majority of the abuse. Both dogs attempted to escape but were trapped inside the property by chicken wire which Mr Martinaj had erected across his driveway upon returning home, alerted to the dogs chasing his chickens via CCTV.

A veterinarian later examined the Golden Retriever and found no physical injuries but Brinny appeared visibly distressed. Millie’s whereabouts remain unknown to this day, and a dead chicken was discovered on the property following the incident.

During Wednesday’s sentencing, Judge Diana Manova said the campaign of abuse and torment against Mr Martinaj and his family constituted a vigilante enterprise, where people take the law into their own hands, often affecting innocent parties. These have included multiple attacks on vehicles on his property, an arson attack on his fence, spray painting, physical and verbal threats and online commentary threatening the lives of him and his family. As recently as two weeks before the hearing, Marcus Wood erected in his front yard a sign facing Mr Martinaj’s house that referred to the latter as a ‘dog’ with a photo of his face on it.

Judge Manova expressed her concerns about children in the neighbourhood, saying, ‘encouraging or tolerating children to victimise others harms their development and may shape the type of adults they will become.’

There were a few brief disruptions from the audience as the sentence was delivered, but the judge quickly called for order and proceeded with the sentencing. She acknowledged the personal toll on Mr Martinaj, saying anyone subjected to that kind of harassment would likely feel significant fear for their safety.

She described the punishment inflicted on Mr Martinaj and his family as “appalling, unjust and severe”, and said it warranted a significant reduction in his sentence from two months’ imprisonment. The judge also said the Victorian community would not approve of the torment and abuse Mr Martinaj and his family had faced.

She said reasonable people expect offenders to serve their punishment without further harassment and with the opportunity for rehabilitation.

Community views sought

Knox Council is seeking community feedback to review its Local Law, which sets out everyday rules aimed at keeping neighbourhoods safe, protecting local amenity and the environment, and maintaining a clean and welcoming city.

The review aims to better align the Local Law with current legislation, respond to community needs and balance public interests with individual freedoms.

Residents are being asked to have their say on issues including unsightly land, overgrowth, incomplete building works, outdoor lighting, burn-offs without permits, animal number limits, secure fencing, election signage on highways, requirements for residents to clear drains and roads, construction noise times, and rules for behaviour in council buildings.

More information is available at haveyoursay.knox.vic.gov.au/LocalLawReview

Mark Martinaj’s sentence was reduced during Wednesday’s County Court hearing. (File)

NEWS IN BRIEF

Defibrillator boost

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Olinda sports clubs have made its defibrillator available to the public for the first time, ensuring people in the busy Olinda Reserve precinct have access to the potentially life-saving device outside of match days.

The new publicly accessible defib and security cabinet has been sponsored by the Dandenong Ranges Community Bank Group at Upwey, while the Hilltop Recreation Association will cover the ongoing maintenance costs.

Hilltop president Rick Wall said the defibrillator previously used by the Olinda Ferny Creek Football Netball Club had been kept inside the pavilion.

“In the past a defib unit used by the Olinda Ferny Creek Football Netball Club was locked away behind the glass at the pavilion and could only be accessed on match days,” he said.

Mr Wall said that meant there was no machine available during the week in an area visited by large numbers of people.

“During the week there was no machine available in the busy Olinda reserve precinct,” he said.

“Thousands of people visit the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens or come here to exercise and a heart attack could have resulted in an unnecessary fatality.”

Mr Wall said the decision to place the device outside the pavilion was driven by community concerns about the lack of access to a defibrillator in the area.

“We’re all community members up in Olinda, and we have families,” he said.

“A lot of people have parents, kids, whatever, and we just felt that given there was no access to a defib around either of the grounds up there or at the Botanic Gardens next door, it was really important that people have access to this apparatus, so we decided to bite the bullet and risk putting it on the outside of the pavilion.”

Mr Wall said while people might never need to

use the device, its presence could prove critical.

“You might say that people will never use it in their lifetime, but if they do use it, it’s going to be completely unexpected and you never know when you’re going to need it,” he said.

“Given the traffic, the amount of recreational traffic through that area, I think it’s a really important thing that Hilltop’s done.”

Mr Wall said support from the Dandenong Ranges Community Bank Group at Upwey had been crucial to making the project possible.

“It was crucial, because all the money, maybe up to $3000 was all going to come out of the sports clubs,” he said.

“Really our obligation is to look after our people with sporting equipment and other items.”

Hilltop Recreation Association, the umbrella body for four sports clubs at Olinda, will now take responsibility for maintaining the defibrillator.

“We are, so Hilltop’s taken that on board,” Mr Wall said.

“The cost associated with the maintenance are only about a tenth, maybe 15 per cent of the overall cost of the item, so we’ll just take that on ourselves.”

A second nearby defibrillator is located at the Olinda Pool, though that facility has restricted hours depending on weather conditions.

Men wanted for not complying with court order

Yarra Ranges Eyewatch are looking for any information or sightings of a man from the outer east.

Daniel Woods, a 26-year-old is wanted on warrant for contravening a court order.

Police said on social media that he is known to frequent the Boronia, Knox, Mooroolbark and Dandenong areas.

Police are also appealing for information on a man who’s known to frequent the Wandin North and Upwey areas.

James Van De Velde, 58, is also wanted on warrant court order contravention.

Anyone who sights either man or or has information about their whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic. com.au

Old

car needed for CFA

Local Monbulk CFA have put the call out to community for help with locating a vehicle to use in their training.

“Dandenong Ranges friends... we need your help again please,” read their social media post.

“If you have a vehicle you no longer need and would like to see put to good use, our rescue team would greatly appreciate your generosity, we are constantly looking to practice our road crash rescue skills on all types of vehicles.”

“If you’d like to donate your old car to Monbulk Fire & Rescue (CFA) send us a message with the details of the vehicle, and your location and we will get in touch.”

Community can reach out to Monbulk CFA on their social media page.

Healthy ageing session in Belgrave

The Yarra Ranges Council are hosting Healthy Ageing Community Connectors sessions across March and residents of the Hills can visit the Belgrave Library for theirs on Thursday 26 March from 10am to 12pm.

The session will help individuals find social groups, health and wellbeing activities, while supporting ageing residents and providing guidance on accessing services like MyAged Care.

It is a free, drop-in service with no booking required.

Simply come along, say hello and discover the support available in Yarra Ranges. Car recall

Toyota has recalled its 2025 Toyota Landcruiser 300 (FJA300R) after a fire risk was identified, with over 11,000 units affected.

The recall was actioned due to a programming issue with the car’s transmission control module.

To find a local dealer visit: toyota.com.au/ find-a-dealer

Or to make an appointment visit: toyota.com. au/owners/service/online-service-booking

Daniel Woods, 26, (left) and James Van De Velde, 58, are wanted on warrant.

L-R: Peter Hayne (Olinda Ferny Creek FNC), Cheryl Gaston (Dandenong Ranges Community Bank Group), Rick Wall (Hilltop), Andrew Gardner (DRCBG), Bruce Lowery (OFCFNC) and Peter Shaw (Olinda Emergency Hub). (Supplied)

FR: Cheryl Gaston (Dandenong Ranges Community Bank) and Peter Shaw (Olinda Emergency Hub) BR: Andrew Gardner (Dandenong Ranges Community Bank), Rick Wall (Hilltop), Peter Hayne (Olinda Ferny Creek FNC), Bruce Lowery (Supplied)

NEWS Labour Day safety blitz

Police targeted high-risk drivers across across the Labour Day long weekend to curb dangerous road users during the Yarra Ranges’ most deadly month for road trauma.

It came as police launched Operation Arid on Friday 6 March, which saw police calling on road users to take extra caution and increased enforcement efforts.

Although March is widely recognised for its packed calendar of major events, festivals and sporting fixtures across metropolitan and regional Victoria, it has also historically recorded the highest levels of road trauma in the state.

In March last year, the Yarra Ranges and the Mornington Peninsula topped the list for collisions in metropolitan Melbourne, while Warrnambool, Surf Coast, Bass Coast and East Gippsland recorded the highest number of collisions over Labour Day weekend in regional Victoria.

March has remained the worst month for injury collisions over the five-year average. In 2025, more than 1600 collisions resulted in injuries and 23 were fatal.

Victoria Police road policing acting assistant commissioner Justin Goldsmith said no one wanted to see another month with record numbers of collisions.

“March continues to be associated with road trauma – and we need to put a stop to it,” Mr Goldsmith said.

“However, enforcement is only one aspect, and we need all road users to consciously contribute to making the roads safer.”

Injury collisions involving drink or drug driving, and road users including heavy vehicles and pedestrians are also at increased risk during the month.

These high-risk behaviours and locations were key areas of focus during Operation Arid.

Injury collisions where speed or fatigue was a factor, or involving motorcyclists (both on and off-road riding), cyclists or e-rideables, have all historically peaked in March.

Police warned motorists there will be zero

“It only takes one second of distraction or to make a basic driving error that results in a collision, so we’re urging everyone to focus on their driving and remain alert behind the wheel,” Mr Goldsmith said.

BOOK ATOUR

tolerance for poor driving and dangerous behaviour, with state and local highway patrols to be highly visible and enforcing across the state’s roads.

Rear end collisions were the most common collision type over Labour Day weekend last year, with police urging motorists to avoid being

complacent behind the wheel.

Operation Arid commenced at 12.01am on Friday 6 March and concluded at 11.59pm on Monday 9 March 2025.

For more information and tips for staying safe on the roads, visit the Road Safety page on the Victoria Police website.

Constable Daniel Singh from Yarra Ranges Highway Partrol. (Melissa Meehan)

Vax push over measles rise

Victorians are urged to make sure they are vaccinated against measles, with Victoria experiencing an increased risk of the highly infectious disease that can cause serious illness.

Measles has recently spread in Victoria among people who have not travelled overseas or visited known exposure sites – so vaccination is more important than ever.

The Department of Health has procured thousands of vaccines for local public health units to roll out local initiatives so more people can get vaccinated for free.

Victorian Chief Health Officer Dr Caroline McElnay said there had been 17 notified cases of measles in Victoria this year and vaccination was the best protection.

“Measles can cause serious illness but can be easily avoided through vaccination so it’s important we take steps to stop the spread of this highly contagious disease,” she said.

“We are working with local public health units to make sure all eligible Victorians know how they can access the free vaccine.

“We urge Victorians to make sure they have had two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is required for immunity.”

The MMR vaccine is also widely available at GPs, community pharmacies, Aboriginal Health Services and some local councils. A Medicare card is not required to get this free vaccine.

“If you are unsure of your vaccination status, get a catch-up vaccine which is completely safe,” said Dr McElnay.

Free measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccines are available to adults born during or after 1966 who haven’t had two doses of the vaccine or are unsure of their vaccination status. Many adults aged 20–59 years may have only had one

dose of the MMR vaccine in line with Australian childhood vaccination schedules at the time.

Children are eligible for the free vaccine through under the National Immunisation Program. It is routinely administered at 12 months and 18 months or through a free catch-up dose. Parents can check a child’s vaccination status by using the Australian Immunisation Register.

Victorians travelling overseas are reminded that cases of measles are rising around the world including popular travel destinations such as Indonesia (including Bali), Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Pakistan and India.

“Victorians heading overseas should make sure their routine vaccinations, including measles, are up to date at least two weeks before departure,” Dr McElnay said.

“Vaccination against measles is safe, effective, and free – and the best way for you and your family to avoid serious illness.”

Infants in Victoria are also eligible for an additional measles vaccine from six months of age if they are travelling overseas, which is six months earlier than routinely scheduled. This state funded MMR vaccine is available through GPs, Aboriginal Health Services and Councils.

Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, sore or red eyes, runny nose, feeling generally unwell, followed by a red rash. Anyone experiencing symptoms should seek medical advice immediately.

For more information about the measles outbreak in Victoria, including exposure sites, visit www.health.vic.gov.au/health-alerts.

More information about where to get vaccinated in your local area, is available at local public health unit websites.

Three-year closure: Uproar over Cardinia Reservoir upgrade

By Afraa Kori

Cardinia Reservoir Park is set for a major upgrade from 2027, but the plan to clear 21 hectares of native bushland and close the park for up to three years has sparked concern among nearby residents.

Upper Beaconsfield resident Fabian Josef, whose property backs directly on to the reserve, said neighbours were blindsided by the scale of the project.

“Three years of reservoir reserve closure and 21.5 hectares of clearing just casually dropped on us,” he shared after receiving a letter from Melbourne Water.

“There were some works six or 12 months ago that closed the park for a couple of weeks. In hindsight that was preparation for this, but there was no indication anything like this was coming.”

For Josef’s young family, the impact will be immediate.

“Losing access to the park for such a long time is pretty upsetting. This is our go to walking track and kids playground,” he said.

But beyond access, residents are worried about what will be left behind.

“At the moment it is a beautiful and natural area with limited infrastructure, focus is on the bush and walking tracks around it,” Mr Josef said.

“They’re already talking about clearing significant areas of native vegetation, it will never be the same.”

Some residents say the letter written by Melbourne Water did not clearly outline how wildlife would be protected during construction.

Noise is another major concern for homes closest to the site.

“We have young kids and between my wife and I, there’s always someone working from home during the week,” Mr Josef said.

“If there’s heavy machinery operating in there for 3 years that will be super disruptive for us.

“I understand that infrastructure needs to be maintained, so sure, some work, closure and noise I can tolerate, but this significant and this length of time seems diabolical in terms of impact to the neighbours.”

Previous works linked to the desalination plant pipeline installation left neighbours frustrated.

“We were not informed at all despite our house being a few hundred metres away from the house. Only when I called Melbourne Water was I given information,” Mr Josef said.

“The hours of operation of the machinery were not stuck to and the noise was awful. That was for only a month, I can’t imagine 3 years.”

Cardinia Reservoir, built in the early 1970s, remains one of Victoria’s most important water infrastructure assets and a vital water source for Melbourne’s south-east.

Melbourne Water Executive General Manager Service and Asset Lifecycle, Matt Daley, said the upgrade reflects Melbourne Water’s commitment to proactively managing and protecting the city’s drinking water supply.

“Maintaining healthy, resilient reservoirs is vital to securing Melbourne’s water supply for generations to come. As industry standards evolve, we continue to invest in the critical infrastructure that keeps pace with our rapidly growing city,” Mr Daley said.

Works include raising sections of the dam walls, upgrading filters, improving leakage

monitoring and collection systems, installing new security fencing, renewing access tracks, and enhancing park amenities.

The project will require large-scale engineering and construction works, with up to 21 hectares of native vegetation to be removed to make way for construction zones, access and equipment laydown areas.

Residents were advised that technical specialists determined the current construction approach would result in the “least native vegetation removal possible”.

“We work hard to avoid native vegetation removal, wherever possible. For the Cardinia dam upgrade, we have reduced the amount of native vegetation to be removed by almost half, and avoided areas of high ecological value,” Mr Daley added.

To protect native wildlife and biodiversity during project delivery, Melbourne Water continues to work with Parks Victoria, the Victorian Government, the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, and other agencies and community groups.

Melbourne Water is also supporting an En-

vironment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation assessment to ensure the project meets national environmental requirements.

Construction of the upgrade is scheduled to begin in 2027. During this period, Reservoir Park and access roads will remain closed to the public.

Cardinia Reservoir will continue to operate throughout the works, ensuring uninterrupted water supply for Melbourne.

Melbourne Water has begun door knocking neighbouring properties and opened community consultation online on the project, running through to 26 April 2026.

In-person information sessions will be held at the Cardinia Reservoir Park this Saturday 14 March and Sunday 15 March from 10am to 2pm. Shopping centre pop-ups were held in shopping centres in Emerald and Narre on 3 and 5 March.

For more project information and to provide your feedback, visit: https://letstalk.melbournewater.com.au/cardinia-dam-upgrade

Cardinia Reservoir dam will soon get an upgrade. (Supplied: Image Workshop)

Road to rebuild under way

By Callum Ludwig

A paper petition at Colchester Nursery and Garden Supplies has garnered hundreds of signatures from residents concerned that the rebuilding process is being halted by Maroondah City Council.

The nursery lost its main building after a fire broke out on Wednesday 4 February, leaving them without a permanent shelter on the site.

The nursery is in a residential area and is privately owned, with no issues regarding the zoning

and land use of the site.

Maroondah Mayor Lisa Hancock said following the fire incident earlier this month, Council has worked closely with the property owner to make the site safe and enable them to reopen.

“With Council’s support the business was able to reopen the day following the fire, which is a huge achievement given the logistics required onsite,” she said.

“Any new buildings proposed on the land may require a planning and building permit and there is a 10 day turn-around process available to the

land owner.

“Council continues to provide support with this process where required.”

The Star Mail can confirm after contacting the nursery that an application for a temporary structure has been submitted with a view to apply for a permit to rebuild in the future.

Cr Hancock said given the level of support the council has provided the property owner, they are disappointed with the negative and factually incorrect commentary aimed at Council.

“We are also unsure of the purpose of the pe-

tition as we continue to support the owner and have no concerns or outstanding matters in relation to the nursery,” she said.

“We are pleased that the business has been able to reopen so quickly and that the community is continuing to support them during what had no doubt been a difficult time for them.”

The community support could be seen when The Basin CFA kindly loaned a large walled gazebo to Colchester Nursery and Garden Supplies to help ensure they could keep trading with the recent rain towards the end of February.

The Colchester Nursery and Garden Supplies fire left them without a shelter on site. (532722)

An application for a temporary structure has been submitted. (532722)

FULL LAUNDRY LOADS SAVE WATER

Smarter water use starts with everyday choices. Run full laundry loads, take shorter showers and turn the tap off when brushing your teeth.

Olinda springs into action

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Olinda is brewing more than just coffee, with the launch of ‘The Olinda Spring’, the locals are coming together to make a real difference for communities overseas who lack access to clean water.

Two best mates from school, Olinda’s Bell Real Estate director, Zac Bell, and philanthropist Edward Dickey of Embers Trust have joined forces to launch The Olinda Spring – a fundraising campaign aimed at providing clean water to communities overseas.

The project has drawn support from a number of local businesses, including Storehouse Roastery, Bell Real Estate Montrose, ALTAR Excavations, AMG Building and Constructions, Olinda Cellars, and Brick Pig Consulting.

“Living in a place where we have rainforest conditions and access to clean drinking water every day makes you realise how lucky we are,” Mr Bell said.

“We just turn on a tap and don’t give it a second thought but there are villages around the world where people don’t have this, and we wanted to help make a difference.”

“Eddie and I have been mates since school, and we both have a heart for charity and for doing good in the world, the idea of providing clean water is very close to my heart, because it’s something we take for granted every day.”

The campaign is being run through ‘Charity: Water’, a globally recognised organisation that has funded tens of thousands of clean water projects across roughly 29 countries in Africa, Asia and beyond, helping communities gain access to safe, clean drinking water.

The goal for The Olinda Spring is $10,000 USD (just over $14,000 AUD) which will fund the construction of a clean water source in an underprivileged village to provide filtered water to schools, hospitals, or even entire towns.

So far, the initiative has raised $7554 USD, which is more than $10,000 AUD.

“It’s about giving locals a platform to contribute, knowing their support goes directly to the people that are impacted,” Mr Dickey said.

“Small towns like Olinda can create a big difference when we work together.”

To support the fundraiser, Storehouse Roastery created a special edition “The Olinda Spring” coffee blend, complete with custom packaging.

“They took their most popular blend, put out the artwork for The Olinda Spring, and said all of the profits for one month will go to the project,” Mr Bell said.

“It’s a small, simple initiative, but it provides a platform for others to get involved.”

“People and businesses have told us how much they appreciate being able to partner in a charitable effort like this, it’s given them a chance to contribute in a way that feels personal and impactful.”

The fundraiser officially went live on 3 December 2025.

To kick off the initiative locally, the partners hosted a community coffee morning at Storehouse Roastery on Monday, 16 February with Bell Real Estate covering the cost of the first 50 coffees made using the special “The Olinda Spring” blend.

Mr Bell said one of the most rewarding aspects of the campaign has been seeing the community come together.

“Partnering with local businesses is vital, in a small town, as one business succeeds, we all rise together,” he said.

“This initiative has brought together so many local businesses and individuals, we’ve had nine businesses contributing so far, and everyone is giving generously. It’s really inspiring to see.”

Mr Dickey said living in the Dandenong Ranges has influenced their approach.

“Being surrounded by natural springs, creeks, and consistent rainfall reminds us how fortunate we are,” he said.

“It really makes you think about people who don’t have access to clean water and encourages you to share what you do have. Even small contributions can make a lasting difference.”

Both organisers said the campaign has provided a model for future initiatives.

“We want to learn from this project and eventually take on bigger efforts,” Mr Dickey said.

“Even though our target is around $10,000 USD, we want to eventually support larger proj-

ects and tackle more pressing global issues. Starting locally, with the community we know and trust, is a strong foundation.”

Mr Bell said the project has been a learning experience as well.

“There’s been a lot of organising behind the scenes, calling businesses, sharing updates, and keeping everyone informed,” he said.

“But seeing people get excited and want to participate makes it all worthwhile. It’s a reminder that a small town can have a huge heart, and that when you come together, you can make a real difference in the world.”

Mr Dickey said he’s hoping this shows other communities and businesses they don’t have to wait for a large organisation or a big event to make an impact.

“Providing a platform for giving allows people to participate in a way that feels meaningful, whether it’s a business contributing or an individual donating a few dollars,” he said.

For more information or to support The Olinda Spring, visit the page on charity: water here: www.charitywater.org/edward-dickey-1/theolinda-spring

L–R: Brad, Zac, Eddie and Aneke at Storehouse Roastery cafe in Olinda. (Stewart Chambers: 538959)

School mates turned charity partners: Zac Bell and Edward Dickey in front of a water tank in Olinda. (Supplied)

The Olinda Spring initiative partners, Eddie Dickey and Zac Bell. (538959)

Zac and Eddie. (538959)

Yarra Ranges Tech School’s expertise goes on show

By Callum Ludwig

The Yarra Ranges Tech School (YRTS) are set to showcase how they are exploring sustainable technologies at this year’s Repower Festival.

YRTS is inviting anyone who attends the event to come along and find out what they have to offer and what students are exploring at the school.

Director of Yarra Ranges Tech School Travis Burroughs said they will be showcasing some components of their Clean Energies program, designed for year nine-12 students.

“Festival attendees will be able to race hydrogen-powered cars and use VE to experience how wind turbines are serviced and maintained,” he said.

“We will also have our robotic dogs, which are used with our partners to survey clean energy sites in and around the Yarra Ranges.

“All of the equipment that we are bringing along to the festival has been supported by the Victorian Government’s Clean Energies Equipment Fund, which supports and improves Clean Energies education across the Tech School network.”

YRTS has programs that focus on clean energies, forensics, renewable futures, future transport and robotics programs that create smart

energy systems or convert food waste to energy.

Mr Burroughs said the festival gives them such a great opportunity to show a glimpse of what they have to offer.

“While most of our programs cater to school-

aged children, we’re here to empower the whole community through our programs and partnerships,” he said.

“One of our primary goals is to innovate with clean energies, supported by funding through

the Victorian Government’s Clean Energies Equipment Fund.

“While we will have some exciting activities at the Repower Festival, we have a lot more to offer – covering programs in renewable and smart housing, clean energy technologies and potential career pathways into the sector.”

The Repower Festival will be held on Sunday 22 March from 10am to 4pm at the Lilydale Civic Centre at 15 Anderson Street, Lilydale.

Mr Burroughs said their team has knowledge on some of the latest and greatest things happening in the clean energy space and they love to share.

“We are always happy to chat about things happening in the sector so encourage those wanting to learn more to come by for a chat,” he said.

“The clean energy space is continuing to grow, which means it will continue to become an even bigger part of the way we work and do business.

“We offer free programs to secondary schools in the Yarra Ranges so that the young people in our community begin to learn about the importance of this sector and the opportunities it holds for them.”

Memories of Cuckoo sought

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

The Yarra Ranges Regional Museum is calling on the community to help preserve the story of one of the Dandenong Ranges’ most recognisable venues after recently acquiring several objects from the iconic Cuckoo Restaurant in Olinda.

Over the past couple of weeks, the museum has been searching for photographs of the muchloved restaurant to help capture its history within the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum collection.

In a post on its Facebook page, the museum asked anyone with photographs of the Cuckoo, taken either inside or outside the venue, to consider sharing them.

Museum collections officer Alex Gerner said preserving the story of the Cuckoo was an important part of documenting the region’s history.

“As the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum represents stories from this region, it is important for us to collect and preserve the story of the Cuckoo, which was such an iconic hill’s institution for over 60 years,” Mr Gerner said.

“The items we have collected will help to preserve its legacy for generations to come.”

Mr Gerner said the museum aimed to record not just the objects themselves but the memories and stories connected to them.

“We will record the provenance of the collected items and their relevance to the history of the Cuckoo to ensure that the memory of this place is not lost,” he said.

“At the museum, we strive to collect not only objects but the stories that surround them.”

Photographs from the community will play an important role in telling that story, particularly images showing the restaurant in action.

Mr Gerner said the Cuckoo was an integral part of Olinda’s local culture, and photographs of the venue and events held there would help reflect that.

“They will capture not only the building and business itself but also community involvement as staff and patrons,” he said.

The museum is especially interested in photos showing the wide range of occasions celebrated at the venue.

“We are aware of many events that have been held at the Cuckoo over the years, including simple family dinners and celebrations such as weddings and significant birthdays,” Mr Gerner said.

“We are hoping that community members might help us to capture photographs of a broad range of these occasions to complement the objects that we have recently acquired.”

Images that show the restaurant’s distinctive atmosphere are also of interest.

“As well as showing people celebrating, we hope to find photos that show the Cuckoo venue itself, including staff in their costumes and the general vibe of the place,” Mr Gerner said.

According to the Mt Dandenong and District

the community, serving both locals and busloads of tourists over the years.

The Historical Society said it was also a place where many Hills teenagers found work and formed friendships, adding to its importance in the region’s social history.

The location has long held a special place in

For the museum team, collecting objects and photographs linked to the Cuckoo will help en-

sure that these memories continue to be shared. Anyone with photographs taken at the Cuckoo that they are happy to share is encouraged to contact the museum team via museumcollections@ yarraranges.vic.gov.au or by calling 9294 6703. Those with printed photographs are also encouraged to get in touch, as the museum team can scan them.

Historical Society, the site has a long history as a hospitality venue, with a cafe or restaurant operating there since 1914.

The society said the earlier Quamby Cafe stood on the site before eventually becoming the building that would later be converted into the Cuckoo.

Montrose Probus Group Christmas outing at the Cuckoo, 3 December 2001. (Yarra Ranges Regional Museum)

Cuckoo Restaurant sign recently acquired by the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum. (YRRM)

A group of visitors at the Quamby after it had been extended to its largest size, c. 1940s. (Mt Dandenong and District Historical Society Inc.)

The interior of Quamby set up for a wedding - this section of Quamby may still be visible inside The Cuckoo building. (Mt Dandenong and District Historical Society Inc.)

Yarra Ranges Tech School will be making an appearance at the 2026 Repower Festival. (Supplied)

REPOWER FESTIVAL

Festival back at new venue

After a successful first edition in 2025, the Repower Festival is making a return in a new location this year, the Lilydale Civic Centre.

The event will be held from 10am to 4pm at the Lilydale Civic Centre at 15 Anderson Street, Lilydale, on Sunday 22 March.

Combining family-friendly fun with an important initiative, the festival will be electric, both in entertainment and in informing attendees about the values of electrifying their lives.

President of the Repower the Dandenongs group Neil Evenden said said their job is to try and demystify the renewable energy and electrification movement.

“We’re now seeing a massive uptake of renewables, more recently with home batteries and also electric vehicles taking off which is making our job a bit easier,” he said.

“But there’s still a lot of people in the community that are either very sceptical or they just don’t know where to start so the festival is designed to be a one-stop shop where people can come along and either learn a bit more if they know a bit or get started if they really don’t know where to start.

“There’s something to be learned no matter where you are on your journey…I’ve electrified my home but I haven’t put in a battery so now I want to know about batteries, there’s always more to learn, and that’s why we’ve assembled a good speaker program because these guys are experts but they’re practical as well, they know how to make these things happen.”

The event will include local vendors selling solar, batteries, energy saving products and services, expert speakers, local community groups who are passionate about sustainability, entertainment and food in interactive activities, face painting, live music, free smoothies, examples of more sustainable transport like EVs and bikes and a schools showcase artwork competition.

Stalls were set up showing exactly what the region and beyond have to offer at last year’s event. (File)

Take your love of electrification out with and visit the Repower Festival for the largest display of EVs seen in the Dandenongs or Yarra Valley.

Hear from local experts on how to make the switch as Lucinda Flynn from Solar Savers and Trent Jones from All Electric Homes will explain where to start and what electrification looks like in practice.

Emerald resident Julian Soo can attest to the event after electrifying his home since last year’s event.

“I think I spoke to almost all the suppliers there,” he said.

“We have very, very consistent power bills

each month, which don’t change. Gas bill went down dramatically.

“When the power goes out, we don’t even notice it, it just switches directly to battery, the only way that I know that there’s been a power outage is because I hear my neighbours powering up their generators.”

Emerald shines after clean-up

Three community groups from Emerald, including Emerald Scouts, Rotary Club of Emerald and District, and Johns Hill Landcare Group combined their enthusiasm to clean up their town on Sunday, 1 March.

Bunches headed out to Worrell Reserve, the Emerald Senior Citizens Club and the main streets around Emerald, collecting about 18 bags of rubbish including an old oven.

It was an enjoyable morning, with brownies, fresh fruit and brewed coffee, followed by a barbecue lunch.

More than 30 people registered for this annual event.

Lots of chatting and sharing stories amongst friends.

Johns Hill Landcare Group’s treasurer, Julie Thompson, thanked the Emerald Scouts for providing the barbecue trailer and tables; the Rotary Club of Emerald and District for cooking the sausages, distributing flyers and bringing along many people; and Johns Hill Landcare members who organised the event.

With many people leading busy lives, community groups say volunteering can provide opportunities to meet new people, develop new interests and contribute locally.

The Emerald Rotary Club meets every Tues-

day at 6.45pm for a 7pm start at the Paradise Hotel, Clematis.

Clean Up Australia Day is typically held on the first Sunday of March to help communities to take

part in hands-on efforts to reduce litter and pollution.

If you would like to find out more, visit the websites listed below for details of

upcoming events.

• www.johnshill.org.au

• www.emeraldrotary.org.au

• www.scoutsvictoria.com.au

Volunteers unite to spruce up Belgrave on clean-up day

By Tanya Steele

Volunteers from several local community groups joined forces last Sunday to collect rubbish and tidy parts of Belgrave as part of Clean Up Australia Day.

The dedicated group from Belgrave and surrounds included local Rotarians, Rotaractors (young Rotary leaders) and community volunteers from the Belgrave and Tecoma Township group and Belgrave Traders.

Armed with gloves, bags and collection equipment supplied through the Clean Up Australia program, the group tackled the area near the car park at the Cameo Cinema and nearby restaurants before setting out to clean up the township of Belgrave.

Long-term Rotary member Gus Rozycki said the group spent the morning working through the multi-level car park and surrounding streets, collecting rubbish and clearing overgrown vegetation.

“Some things don’t break down, but we cleaned extensively from the bottom all the way along the embankments,” he said.

Chosen because wind often blows litter into the lower levels of the car park, the location often traps rubbish along the bushes and fences. Working their way through Reynolds Lane, behind the cinema and along the back streets near Woolworths, the group freshened up the laneways and walkways that connect to the main street.

The clean up turned up some regular culprits, cigarette butts, drink cans, beer cartons and wine bottles, along with several stray shopping trolleys, which were also recovered and returned.

With a bit of help with supplied equipment from Rotaractor Xavier from Xtreme mowing and gardening, the group went the extra mile to support the clean-up effort.

morning. (Belgrave Rotary Facebook)

The group pruned overgrown bushes, removed weeds from footpaths and swept builtup debris from corners of the car park.

“A lot of the shopkeepers are very, very happy. We used a massive backpack blower; it was very powerful,” said Gus.

“It could blow the dust right down the road to accumulate, shovel the bags and then clean up the street so it’s looking 1000 times better,” he said.

Held annually on 1 March, Clean Up Australia Day has been running for 35 years nationwide and offers the community a chance to make a local change in their area.

Registration offers groups free cleanup kits and insurance, with small fees for businesses.

Pip Kiernan, Chair of Clean Up Australia, said our nation’s litter disposal and recycling

challenges are continuously shifting.

“The one thing we know for certain is that too much litter is still making its way into our streets, parks, bushlands and waterways,” she said.

Over its lifetime, the event has seen an estimated 23 million wonderful volunteers put on their gloves and donate their time to improve the environment.

Local cafe owner Alex from Hendrix Cafe was also on hand on the day to give out toasted sandwiches for volunteers, giving the group a chance to gather for lunch and debrief after the clean-up.

The collected rubbish bags were left for the council to pick up later.

A lifelong volunteer, Gus said that in his family, they take turns volunteering in the community to keep things balanced.

“You still have your own things to attend to, so we take turns,” he said.

The Belgrave Rotary thanked community volunteers from the Belgrave Tecoma township group and Belgrave Traders on their social media for their combined efforts on the day.

“For your hands-on help and ongoing commitment to our local area,” read the post.

“It was fantastic to see so many people working side by side.”

“Days like this are a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared purpose.”

Volunteers were treated to a toastie or two by local trader Alex from Little Hendrix after their

At least 30 bags of rubbish and litter from one end of Belgrave to another was picked up by volunteers.

CUAD members walking along the street.

CUAD members during a rubbish clean-up. CUAD at Worrell Reserve on Sunday, 1 March.

Johns Hill Landcare group and Scouts in front of a pile of rubbish at Emerald Scout Centre.

The CUAD group following Sunday’s clean-up. (Supplied)

SHOP LOCAL — MONBULK

Banking with personal touch

For over 14 years, Community Bank Monbulk and District has supported the local community, earning a strong reputation through genuine, personalised service and real care for its customers.

By putting customers first, the bank has built lasting trust and relationships within the community - focusing on people rather than just transactions.

An important goal when the Community Bank opened was to help locals achieve their dream of owning their own home sooner.

Community Bank Monbulk and District’s business development/lending manager, Mark Davenport has more than 20 years of experience in the banking sector, encompassing a broad range of areas including retail and commercial lending.

His extensive knowledge enables him to effectively assist clients in finding tailored solutions for their personal needs.

By taking the time to understand customers’ individual circumstances and offering a genuinely personalised service, Mr Davenport supports clients through one of the most important financial decisions of their lives.

Mr Davenport works with customers and provides assistance right from the first meeting, from saving techniques 12 months before buying to wealth creation and investments.

He welcomes inquiries from existing lending customers and local homeowners to discuss how he can help with their needs.

His extensive experience and dedication to his position are consistently demonstrated in every client interaction.

With a large horticultural industry in Monbulk and surrounding areas, Mr Davenport takes a mobile approach to helping customers and local businesses with their financial needs.

Mr Davenport can meet clients in person, over the phone, or via video when it suits them.

Outside of work, Mr Davenport is passionate

about men’s health and wellness, particularly for those aged 40 plus, and he is an advocate for more open conversations around this important topic.

When he’s not in the branch, Mr Davenport is

likely to be involved in rugby union, a

he has been passionate about all his life. Whether lending needs are straightforward or more complex, Mr Davenport has

customers covered.

For more information, contact Mark Davenport on 0493 434 062 or visit the team at 70 Main Road, Monbulk 3793.

sport

Community Bank Monbulk and District’s business development/lending manager, Mark Davenport. (Supplied)

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

‘Raw and honest’ in focus

Warburton-based photographer Suzanne Phoenix delivered her 15th and final International Women’s Day photographic exhibition on 4 March, marking the end of an impactful, raw, and deeply important piece of culture.

On display at the Queen Victoria Women’s Centre, her exhibition features portraits of cis and trans women and gender diverse people in Melbourne (Naarm).

Her 2026 iteration sees 23 new subjects join the nearly 200 portraits spanning the entirety of the project.

Ms Phoenix is a queer artist whose work champions the many talented cis and trans women and gender diverse people in creative fields.

She said the exhibition had “meant the world” to her over the past 15 years.

“It’s given me a place where I can put my energies to respond to the horrible things that happen on a day-to-day basis, living in patriarchal society and with the misogyny and gender-based violence that exists,” Ms Phoenix said.

“It gives a platform to a diverse group of cis and trans women and gender diverse people in Melbourne and Australia, it is a mix of people who are very well known and people who are more emerging.”

The exhibition features a wide range of gifted individuals. It includes renowned musicians, such as Janet English from Spiderbait and singersongwriter Candice Lorrae.

Alongside the many musicians, portraits of prominent artists such as Keely Wins and Carol Green and photographers such as Alex Zucco are also featured.

In her exhibition, Ms Phoenix asked each subject to give a written response to the question, “What International Women’s Day means to me”.

“I will continue to be the woman and the photojournalist that I want to be. It is an endless, often demeaning battle but it is one I will fight as long as I’m here.

“I hope that International Women’s Day is a reminder that being a woman is something worth fighting for every day. Women in the past fought for us today and it is our duty to fight for the women of tomorrow,” Ms Zucco said.

First Nations singer-songwriter Candice Lorrae is a Jawoyn and Torres Strait Islander woman, and she said IWD inspires her to lead with love for the next generation of women.

“It’s about legacy, access, and creating space for women to rise together. This day celebrates our shared journey as women — a time to amplify our voices and tell our stories.“

Ms Phoenix said it was time to wrap up the series and give space to other projects to arise.

“This takes a huge amount of my time and energy. And I think, yeah, there’s other things I’d like to do - not that I’m going to step away from this at all.”

She plans to release a book next year with all 200 portraits combined into one published piece.

Last year, Ms Phoenix announced her IWD series was acquired by the State Library of Victoria to be kept in the archives forever.

It was a big deal for Ms Phoenix, as it documents the lives of cis and trans women and gender diverse people, making sure it’s cemented into history.

“It has documented over those 15 years the things these people have shared, they’ll be there for history.

“They’ll be there for people to look back on and see how things were. They’ll see the changes in feminism and issues each year,” Ms Phoenix said.

In celebrated photojournalist Alex Zucco’s response, she said being a transgender woman means she has to fight for her womanhood every day.

Suzanne Phoenix won the Australian Women in Music’s photography award. (Cassidy Cloupet)

Miss D.Meaner is Ms Australian Leather 2025. (Suzanne Phoenix)

Kate Dillon is a musician from the Full Flower Moon Band. (Suzanne Phoenix)

Janet English is a musician from the band Spiderbait. (Suzanne Phoenix)

Alex Zucco is a photojounrnalist and transgender woman. (Suzanne Phoenix)

Candice Lorrae is a singer-songwriter and First Nations woman. (Suzanne Phoenix)

By Oliver Winn

Creative carers connect

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Carers in the Bayswater area are finding a place to relax, connect and get creative through a free weekly art group at Glen Park Community Centre.

The Canvas and cuppas for carers program, held at Glen Park Community Centre in Bayswater North, is a fully catered social art group designed to support carers, particularly those from the LGBTQIA+ community.

The $19,130 funding comes from Carers Victoria to help distribute the program weekly during school terms, and it will continue until June 30, 2026.

Glen Park Community Centre chief executive officer Heidi Butler-Moore said the initiative was created after the centre noticed a growing number of unpaid carers attending who were experiencing isolation and financial pressure.

“We have quite a high population of people attending here that are unpaid carers who are socially isolated and financially responsible for looking after the people they’re caring for,” Ms Butler-Moore said.

“The more we can do for them to be included, to feel valued and to get a little bit of respite, I think that’s Glen Park’s responsibility.”

The group prioritises carers from the LGBTQIA+ community but is open to carers more broadly, offering a safe and welcoming space for participants to take time out from their caring roles.

Each week two groups of 10 participants take part in art and craft activities before sharing a meal together.

“It’s all about social connection and doing something that’s stress free,” Ms Butler-Moore said.

“They come together, do some artwork, participate in craft activities, eat together, communicate and just have some downtime for themselves.”

Meals are provided through Glen Park’s on-

site registered social enterprise cafe in Bayswater North, which is also a certified social trader.

Ms Butler-Moore said removing financial and practical barriers made it easier for carers to attend.

“Everything’s done for them. All they have to

do is turn up,” she said.

Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive.

“They’re actually really enjoying it and feel like Glen Park has gone above and beyond to provide them with this opportunity,” Ms Butler-

Moore said.

Demand was strong, with places filling quickly after registrations opened.

“I encouraged people to keep an eye on Glen Park’s website and social media for future funded activities,” she said.

L-R: Michelle (tutor), Philomina (carer), Heather (carer), Emma (carer), Heidi (CEO), Vicki (carer) and Tracy (carer). (Supplied)

Sweetside Motel

PASSION FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

By Christine Sun

Sweetside Motel, by Canadian author EL Chen, is a mixture of psychological thriller and horror that packs a punch.

The novella begins with Sarah desperately fleeing from Toronto, until her car breaks down in a small, remote country town named Sweetside.

Unfortunately, Sarah’s plea for help is rejected by the townsfolk.

It is the early Covid-19 years when the world is swamped by anxiety, suspicion, paranoia and fear. Any outsider is required to quarantine, especially those from big cities. She is thus assigned a room in a deteriorating roadside inn nicknamed “Suicide Motel”.

Worse, Sarah is ethnic Chinese and has endured racism and xenophobia all her life.

When the windows of her motel room are smashed and the poisonous phrase “chink virus” smeared across her door, she is forced to stay with the motel’s owners, brothers Caleb and Elijah.

They have her sleeping in their dead father’s old bedroom and constantly remind her to lock her door.

As Sarah’s sense of claustrophobia and entrapment grows, increasingly malicious shadows appear to be lurking around the house.

Soon, Sarah’s past is catching up to her.

The dark secrets behind Caleb’s and Elijah’s peculiar behaviours are also revealed...

To this reviewer, the major theme explored in this story is mask wearing.

Against the backdrop of the pandemic, masks help limit the transmission of the Covid-19 virus.

But they also conceal a person’s identity and facial expression, making it difficult to decipher their true intentions.

Meanwhile, being female and Asian, Sarah has to wear masks of a different kind.

The social “norm” here is that Asian people are expected to be quiet, friendly and polite, always pleasant and cooperative, always “work hard and blend in”, not to draw any attention or cause any trouble.

Indeed, “being nice” is how Sarah survives in a society dominated by white males.

“These are men who never have to think about how much space they take up because they’re used to people making room for them.”

Just like her ex-boyfriend Ben: “The breadth of his shoulders, the unapologetic way he cuts through a space. The way his anger uses up all the air in the room so there’s none left for her to breathe.”

Yet, in this story, “being nice” is further linked to basic survival in abusive relationships.

Particularly in cases of domestic violence, it is often the victims who need to “make nice, accept the apology, because otherwise, the storm will break again”.

Finally, for the victims in this story, “being nice” as a form of mask wearing has a third and most profound meaning.

Focusing on how these victims work hard to act nice because they are afraid of becoming their abusers, the author alerts us of the notion that violence begets violence.

Such is the deep trauma that long-term domestic abuse can cause. In this sense, Sweetside Motel is a powerful story of social commentary.

Highly recommended.

Mabel’s story

By Paula Herlihy

Mabel Ellen Young (nee Sawyer) was born in 1875 in Sussex, England, the youngest of two girls and five boys.

Her father worked in New Zealand for twelve years to support the family, which suggests they were not wealthy.

Mabel Sawyer was an interior decorator, wood carver and metal worker.

Eleven examples of her work are held by the National Gallery of Victoria.

Mabel’s most striking legacy is probably the exquisite copper and iron fittings on newspaper magnate David Syme’s Mausoleum, near the entrance to Boroondara General Cemetery (commonly known as the Kew Cemetery).

Whilst a student at Herkomer’s Art School in Hertfordshire she met and married fellow student William Blamire Young, a Cambridge graduate in Mathematics, who had returned to England to study Art after teaching for seven years in New South Wales.

The Youngs came to Australia in 1898.

Mabel worked as a wood carver and metal worker, often working ‘collaboratively’ with her visual artist husband.

Mabel carved fire surrounds and staircases, and William painted the ceilings, doorways and vignettes in carved pieces.

They had two daughters, Ida (b.1901) and Lalage (b.1902). A son, born 1899, died in infancy.

The Youngs returned to England in 1912 for twelve years, and on their return purchased a home on several acres on the corner of Edinburgh and Swansea Roads Montrose, named ‘Utamaro’ after a Japanese artist.

Here they enjoyed horse riding, the garden, and

CARTOON

a seven-hole golf course.

Mabel always rode side saddle, and competed in a Mooroolbark carnival.

The Youngs mixed with other artists in Melbourne, with William a respected water colourist and art critic for The Herald.

They were guests at the many parties that Melba staged at Coombe, and attended Melba’s farewell in 1928 with other distinguished guests.

William died in 1935. In 1943 Mabel and her daughter Ida sold ‘Utamaro’ and bought a doublestorey home on Greens Corner Montrose (the intersection of Canterbury and Mt Dandenong Roads), which still stands.

Later they moved to Mooroolbark.

Mabel died in 1956, and was buried with her husband in Lilydale Cemetery

Local theatre wrap up

By Peter Kemp

CPP Committee Theatre

Cosi

A story filled with humour, warmth, and heart. Cosi is about friendship. Community, loyalty, and difference.

It’s a play about the transformative nature of the performing arts.

It celebrates the individual and all that we each bring to the table.

It is a true epic tale that ranges from humble moments deeply personal in nature, to the soaring grandeur and spectacle of Minaret’s opera, Cosi Fan Tutti.

Set in a psychiatric facility in Melbourne, Cosi follows the story of Lewis, a recent university graduate, who is tasked with directing a theatre performance involving the residents.

It’s 1971 and Australia is protesting the war in Vietnam.But inside the hospital, residents are listening to Mozart, learning their lines, creating chaos and occasionally, skipping their medication.

It’s art, it’s mayhem, it’s heartwarming, it’s challenging, it’s a wonderful roller coaster ride all the way of opening night.

• Season: 10 to 18 April.

The Round Paul Tabone Salutes Andrea Bocelli

This unforgettable performance celebrates not only Andrea Bocelli’s remarkable repertoire but

The Bride a must see

4/5

Inspired by the 1933 film The Bride of Frankenstein, The Bride is Maggie Gyllenhaal’s second film as director and a defiant, electric horror-romance.

In 1930s Chicago, Frank (Christian Bale), aka Frankenstein’s monster, digs up and reanimates a woman named Ida (Jessie Buckley) to be his mate.

Buckley and Bale are fiendishly fun as an undead Bonnie and Clyde-type couple, and Buckley plays Ida with rebellious, feral energy. While Bale’s monster is a naively loving figure (even with some moments of supernatural brutality), there is a tense undercurrent of Frank deceiving Ida. The Bride is dripping with thirties glamour and debauchery, and the centrepiece is a deranged dance number with traces of Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein and Michael Jackson’s Thriller, which shifts to a gun-toting rebuke as Ida gives a voice to the women the men around her killed and brutalised.

Unfortunately, The Bride doesn’t give its plot-points enough room to breathe. Detective Wiles (Peter Sarsgard) and his plucky assistant Myrna (Penelope Cruz) feel loosely-connected to Ida and Frank’s journey. There is an extraneous subplot involving a mob boss and his reluctant enforcer, and Ida’s need to break out from the role Frank imposed upon her reaches a rushed resolution.

There is also the strange choice of casting Buckley as both Ida and a spectral black-and-white Mary Shelley. The author of Frankenstein manifesting through Ida as florid Tourettes-like tics in a new accent is intriguing but also annoying. This storytelling device also shatters the fourth wall into a millionpiecesbyhighlightingthenarrative’s fictional nature.

The pacing is sloppy and Shelley’s immersion-testing presence may sink the film for you, but The Bride is a compelling, stylish, fun feminist spin on the Frankenstein mythos, and is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

Kemp’s curtain call

also Tabone’s extraordinary artistic journey.

From heartfelt ballads to soaring anthems, audiences will be taken on an emotional voyage through some of Bocelli’s most iconic hits and timeless ARIAs.

• Season: Friday 13 March at 2pm.

The Arcadians – Presented by Gilbert and Sullivan Opera.

The Edwardian’s era’s most successful Musical Comedy: the My Fair Lady of its day.

A London restaurateur crash lands his plane in Arcadia and is transformed from a wicked an toa guiles youth by the innocent rural idyll of the locals.

Horrified by the idea of city life, the magical Arcadians travel to London to convert the miserable city-dwellers.

Premiering in 1909, The Arcadians was so delightfully entertaining that it ran for more then two years in London’s West End.

In 2010, GOV commissioned a new book from Australian playwright, Melvyn Morrow, whose most recent hits include SHOUT and Dusty – The Original Pop Diva. Director Robert Ray’s production premiered in Melbourne and toured the K, where it was hailed the hit of The International G and S Festival for its stunning settings, costumes, movement and performances.

In 2026, the creative team from the sold-out season of Fledermaus (2026), directors Robert Ray and Naomi Tooby, restage this little gem with fresh new talent accompanied by a live quartet, with music specially re-scored by MD Geoffrey Urquhart and new gowns from Helen Ebsworthy.

• Season: Friday 13 March to Sunday 28 March. Lilydale Athenaeum, Theatre

The Female of the Species

Margot Mason is a feminist writer suffering from writer’s block.

Molly Rivers, her former student, arrives unexpectedly at her country home with a gun, blaming Margot for warping her mother’s mind with her best-selling book. Chaos ensues leading ot comic but tense encounter.

Margot’s daughter, her con-in-law, her publisher and a taxi driver also arrive to comment on Margot’s feminist failings and the expectations placed on female public figures.

The plot is based on an incident that happened to Germaine Greer/

• Season: 23 April to 9 May.

The Bride Starring Jessie Buckley and Christian Bale MA15+

Mabel Young gates at David Syme’s Mausoleum. (Paula Herlihy)

Fifteen day luxury cruise

Imagine sailing down the Mississippi and the Ohio Rivers for 16 days taking in the sights of colourful New Orlean, musical Memphis and lovely Louisville.

Viking have announced their new itineraries for the region for 2027 and bookings are now open.

Sailing on board the Viking Mississippi, guests can choose the new fifteen day Bayous, Blues and Bluegrass itinerary, which operates between New Orleans and Louisville, with ports of call along the Mississippi and Ohio rivers.

A shorter option is the eight day Mississippi and Ohio River Explorer itinerary which offers a journey between Memphis and Louisville.

Viking Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen believes wherever they are in the world, Viking guests are interested in the history, culture and culinary traditions of the destinations they visit.

“The towns and cities along the Mississippi and Ohio rivers are close to home for quite a few of our guests and are fantastic destinations that many have yet to discovering,” he said.

He believes the new itineraries expand the company’s destination-focused offerings on the Mississippi River.

The itineraries explore the rich heritage of the American South, birthplace of some of the country’s most beloved culinary and musical tradition with the 2027 Bayous, Blues and Bluegrass 15 day New Orleans to Louisville cruise.

Along the Mississippi River, grand homes preserve the South’s past. Step into Civil War history at Vicksburg and feel the rhythm of the blues in Greenville. Further north, sample smoky barbecue in Tennessee and discover Kentucky’s legacy of craftsmanship, from the powerful Louisville Slugger to smooth bourbon.

Also new for 2027 is the eight day Mississippi and Ohio River Explorer from Memphis to Louisville. Sail on the Ohio and Mississippi rivers as they wind past scenic wetlands, quaint towns and storied cities.

Classic American musical genres with the blues, rock ‘n’ roll and bluegrass arose along these waterways. Discover the legacies of icons such as BB King and Elvis Presley in Memphis, Tennessee. In Kentucky, Louisville’s baseball museum preserves the spirit of America’s favourite pastime while its bourbon distilleries honour generations of craftsmanship.

The 22-day Mississippi River Odyssey from New Orleans to St Paul gives guests the opportunity to revel in the charm of “America’s Great River” as the ship sets sail along the Mississippi.

Admire the historic mansions and grand homes atop its bluffs, and delve into America’s Civil War history.

Delight in the region’s famed Southern cuisine and sample Memphis’s renowned barbecue, alongside artisan beers. Birthplace of American music, blues, jazz and soul, the Mississippi cele-

brates its musical heritage in the towns and cities that line its legendary shores.

The eight-day Mississippi Delta Explorer from New Orleans to Memphis allows guests to discover Darrow, the gateway to the grand homes of the Lower Mississippi and explore the fascinating towns along the banks of the Mississippi that preserve the memory of the American South’s early history.

Learn about Natchez’s French and Acadian heritage and pay respects at the Vicksburg battlefield. Savour delicious Cajun and creole cuisine, as well as Memphis’s famous barbecue, as you celebrate musical legends in the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll.

Discover the Heartland of America over eight days from St Louis to St Paul as guests journey along the Upper Mississippi and hear stories of intrepid pioneers and the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Walk in the footsteps of famed writer Mark Twain and learn about the Norwegian migration to the Midwest.

Enjoy the view as the luxury ship navigates through the river’s intricate lock system and experience the region’s many cultural treasures from ragtime, polka and Norwegian folk music to Wisconsin cheese, craft beer and hearty stews.

On the eight day New Orleans and Southern Charms leaving New Orleans for a roundtrip, discover the Lower Mississippi’s rich charm, history and hospitality. Explore historic estates and visit notable Civil War sites.

Sample the bustling French-flavoured port cities of New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Sway to the tempos of Dixieland jazz, gospel and blues. Savour gourmet Cajun and Creole cuisine, as well as traditional Southern fare. Join this special Vi-

king cruise and see why local Cajuns say, “Laissez les bons temps rouler” (Let the good times roll).

The Viking Mississippi hosts 386 guests in 193 all-outside staterooms. The state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by Viking’s awardwinning river and ocean ships and features elegant Scandinavian design, as well as public

spaces that are familiar to guests but reimagined for Mississippi River voyages. The ship’s cuttingedge design, expansive windows and comfortable amenities make the Viking Mississippi the first truly modern ship in the region. For further information please phone 138 747 or visit www.viking.com.

Mississippi Blues Club on Beale-Street, Memphis. (Supplied)

Viking Announces New Mississippi and Ohio River Voyages for 2027.

Winter Wonderland 2026

Imagine standing beneath a velvet-black Arctic sky as shimmering ribbons of green light dance above you. Picture yourself gliding through a silent, snow-covered forest behind a team of eager huskies, or wrapped in warm blankets on areindeer sleigh as fresh snow falls gently around you.

This isn’t a scene from a movie — it was our reality on last year’s Winter Wonderland tour.

After the extraordinary success of our 2025 departure, I am delighted to announce that Winter Wonderland 2026 is now open — and I invite you to join us.

Departing 13 November 2026, this fully escorted 17-day journey travels from Oslo in Norway through to Helsinki in Finland. It is a beautifully crafted combination of spectacular scenery, immersive cultural experiences and unforgettable Arctic adventures.

We begin in vibrant Oslo before embarking on the breathtaking “Norway in a Nutshell” scenic rail journey — one of the most stunning train experiences in the world — travelling through dramatic mountain landscapes and majestic fjords to Bergen. From there, we board our six-night coastal voyage with Havila Voyages, sailing north along Norway’s extraordinary coastline.

We cross the Arctic Circle and visit charming ports including Alesund, Trondheim and Tromso, known as the “Gateway to the Arctic.” Snowdusted peaks, colourful fishing villages and crisp Arctic air create a constantly changing and utterly mesmerising backdrop.

Last year we were incredibly fortunate with heavy snowfall and spectacular displays of the Northern Lights — turning the entire journey into a true winter fairy tale. Guests described it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and many are already asking where we are heading next.

With 16 nights’ accommodation, 38 meals,

In Finnish Lapland, the adventure truly comes alive. We stay in Aurora-style cabins designed for Northern Lights viewing, enjoy a thrilling husky safari, meet local reindeer herders and experience a traditional sleigh ride through snowy wilderness. We also visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi and immerse ourselves in authentic Arctic culture.

cruising, rail, touring and transport included — and with me escorting the group from start to finish — this is boutique small-group travel at its very best.

Early Bird Bonus: Book and deposit by 31 March 2026 and save $1,000 per person off the tour price.

Places are limited to maintain a personalised experience, and interest is already strong.

If Scandinavia in winter has ever captured your imagination, this could be your moment.

For further details, contact Julie O’Grady at Exclusively Cruising on 03 9762 2799 or visit www. exclusivelycruising.com.au

Let 2026 be the year you experience the magic of the Arctic.

Full-Board River Elegance

3 night Murray River cruise on board PS Murray Princess with all meals and sightseeing

Tour of Murray River Bridge and historic Roundhouse

Guided nature walk of Salt Bush Flat

Taste Riverland food and wine

Dragon-Fly flat-bottomed boat wildlife tour

Iconic Experiences, Expertly Escorted

Full day Barossa Valley tour with lunch and wine tastings including: Saltram wine estate, lunch and wine tasting at Lambert Estate, visit to Barossa Valley Chocolate Company, photo stop at Menglers Hill Lookout, vineyard tour & wine tasting at Jacob’s Creek visitor

centre, stop at Beerenberg Farm, and free time in Hahndorf to explore the historic German settlement

2 day Kangaroo Island tour including: Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, Clifford’s Honey Farm, In-Flight Birds of Prey Display at Raptor Domain, Seal Bay Conservation Park guided beach walk, lunch at Emu Bay Lavender Farm, Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, and Flinders Chase National Park

Hand-Picked Hotel Stays

3 nights four-star hotel stay in Adelaide with breakfast

1 night four-star hotel stay in Kangaroo Island with breakfast, lunch and dinner

All Flights, Taxes & Transfers

DAYS

$5,695* pp

Book now and choose your preferred offer valued up to $5,000 per couple: Free economy class flight offers, upgrade to business class with an airfare credit, or save on your cruise fare.

Available until sold out on select river, ocean and expedition voyages*.

ROMANTIC DANUBE

Budapest to Regensburg or vice versa

Explore Göttweig Abbey, one of Austria’s most revered monastic centres and make dumplings with Wachau Valley apricots.

8

From

5 GUIDED TOURS

in Standard Stateroom From

PASSAGE TO EASTERN EUROPE

Bucharest to Budapest or vice versa

Sail the Danube’s Iron Gate, witness Hungary’s Puszta horsemen, and behold Budapest’s grandeur—Eastern Europe unveiled.

11 DAYS • 5 COUNTRIES • 8 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • APR-NOV 2026; MAR-NOV 2027; 2028

From $7,595pp in Standard Stateroom From $9,495pp in Veranda Stateroom

CAPITALS OF EASTERN EUROPE

Bucharest to Vienna or vice versa

Discover the “City of Waltzes,” Austria’s elegant capital and European centre of classical music. In Bratislava, view grand palaces from the Hapsburg era.

17 DAYS • 7 COUNTRIES • 12 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • APR-NOV 2026; MAR-NOV 2027; 2028

From $11,495pp in Standard Stateroom From $16,795pp in Veranda Stateroom

Introducing our 2026-2028 River Voyages brochure. Uncover the immersive experiences that await you along the world’s waterways with Viking.

Compare the similarities

Now that Labor Day and the family friendly Moomba long weekend is behind us the next break for holiday loving Australians will be the Easter public holidays from Good Friday April 3 to Easter Monday April 6.

We live in a secular country where the number of people identifying as having no religion is growing and certain politicians remind us that we are a country that is underpinned by Christian values with which some religions are not compatible.

But Easter has become all about a break from work, Hot Cross buns and chocolate eggs. And a football match played on Good Friday.

But we are now in the pre-Easter period of Lent which began with Ash Wednesday, a symbolic reminder of human mortality and a call to spiritual change.

Teach us to care and not to care

Teach us to sit still.

Here, TS Eliot in Ash Wednesday is asking us to think about remaining compassionate, responsible and morally awake in this world and avoid being controlled and enslaved by ego, pride or fear and to aim for inner stillness, letting go of frenetic striving.

This is not just a Christian idea but appears in many spiritual traditions including Islam.

But that doesn’t mean turning away from the sufferings in war torn countries or the increasing inequalities emerging in our own.

This year Muslim Ramadan and Christian Lent began on the same day. And while Ramadan will end on March 18 or 19 with the Festival of Eid, depending on the moon sighting, Christian Lent will continue till Easter Thursday March 2.

That Ramadan and Lent start almost at the

WOORILLA WORDS

same time, is relatively uncommon. Despite those in our community who like to portray the relationship between the Christian and Islamic culture and religion as good versus evil, it would do well to look how much common ground exists between the two, in the commonality underlying the two events.

There are of course basic differences in the revelation that grounds each faith.

Lent: focuses on reflecting on the life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, especially his suffering before Easter.

Ramadan: commemorates the period when the Qur’an was first revealed.

But for both traditions fasting has meaning and a purpose. For Muslims fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and a time of spiritual reflection, repentance, empathy for the less fortunate and cleansing the soul.

Christians fast to imitate Jesus Christ’s 40 day sacrifice in the desert and focus on spiritual growth through self-denial.

Its three pillars are prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Both traditions include going without food and drink at set times.

For Muslims this means having breakfast at dawn but then no food or water until the breaking of the fast at sunset. Think how difficult that would be in certain work conditions, requiring incredible self-discipline.

In both traditions there are exemptions for the elderly, infirm, pregnant and children.

I remember being on jury duty during Ramadan with a young Muslim woman and how disciplined she was as we all ate and drank in her presence. Fasting occurs less and less among the Christian tradition, but many do limit food or avoid certain foods seen as indulgences.

Christina Rossetti reminds us that true fasting is spiritual, not just dietary.

Is it a fast, to keep

The larder lean?

And clean

From fat of veals and sheep?

Is it to quit the dish

Of flesh, yet still

To fill

The platter high with fish?

So already there are obvious similarities in the traditions around Lent and Ramadan.

There are of course differences in the revelation that grounds each faith but to acknowledge the similarities is already a step forward in the right direction to understanding and acceptance.

And rejecting the unethical behaviour of some that creates divisions based on spurious claims.

In the words of 13th century mystic poet Rumi:

Why are you so busy with this or that or good or bad;

pay attention to how things blend.

For most Australians Easter is a secular event

and for most Lent is seldom observed. Lent and Ramadan come from different religions, but share several very similar spiritual aims. These shared aims include becoming a better person, greater compassion and generosity towards people in need and strengthening community.

So already there are obvious similarities in the traditions around Lent and Ramadan. Through fasting participants practice self-control, reduce indulgences or give up bad habits.

The emphasis is on good deeds and giving to the needy.

Charity events are held such as the Good Friday Appeal which supports primarily the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne.

Both are periods focused on deepening faith and improving personal character.

As Rumi put it:

Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world.

Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.

Thinking about these similarities between these two monotheistic religions brings to mind another great 13th century Persian poet, Saadi Shiraz. A moral verse about human unity and compassion, often quoted across the Muslim world:

Human beings are members of a whole.

In creation of one essence and soul, If one member is afflicted with pain, Other members uneasy will remain, If you have no sympathy for human pain , The name of human you cannot retain.

This is not just a Christian idea but appears in many spiritual traditions including Islam.

Lysterfield Valley landfill proposal should be refused

COMMENT

By

Save the Dandenongs League

At a time where social values are being constantly challenged it is no shock that the natural environment also suffers the consequences.

The dumping of 400,000 cubic metres of fill material in the Lysterfield Valley has been awaiting a final decision from VCAT since September.

Save the Dandenongs League Inc said the future of the proposal remains uncertain, as the matter is still pending VCAT’s ruling.

The community and Yarra Ranges Council have strongly opposed the proposal.

The Lysterfield Valley has been a battle ground of contested values, matching environmental land protection against city development.

This rural valley, a gateway between city and country is designated a Green Wedge protection region for Melbourne.

There is a long tradition of the valley providing a diverse range of fine agricultural produce and valuable grazing land.

This proposal threatens to undermine the

agricultural potential of the subject land, particularly in the light of the incremental development and loss of valuable agricultural land occurring around the edges of Melbourne.

Agricultural land that is needed to secure Melbourne’s food supply into the future.

The proposal’s industrial scale noise, dust and visual scarring will have a huge negative impact on the amenity of the valley for residents and tourists alike.

This is a watershed moment where what

we say and what we allow cause deep social tensions and results that are everlasting in our community’s social and emotional culture.

Various comments by the land holder describe the land as “A serene environment for your time away from it all”.

It is also recognised as offering “multiple opportunities to stand in awe before the majesty of God’s creation, to find a quiet spot for reflection and to relax.

It is impossible for many to realign any

thinking that results in tipping vast quantities of landfill that levels out a natural landscape valley with rising slopes up to massive granite outcrops that dominate this site from afar “Surrounded by farmlands and offering stunning views”

These decisions affect the wellbeing of the whole community, not only of those who look upon and enjoy the Lysterfield Valley but those who need to know such places are reachable and respected for something more than commercial convenience.

VCAT’s decision is pending on the Lysterfield Valley proposal. (Supplied)

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

1 Assimilate (6)

4 Leads an orchestra (8)

10 Complementary item (9) 11 Throw (5)

12 Chits (abbr) (4)

13 Message (4) 14 Colouring matter (5)

16 Humming sound (4)

17 Musician, Jim – (8)

20 Provided (8)

22 Declare (4)

25 Beautiful maiden in Muslim paradise (5)

26 Web addresses (abbr) (4) 28 Black mineral (4) 30 Hat (5) 31 Harmony (9) 32 Gifted (8)

Large rope (6)

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

CROWNING THE RIDGE TO CAPTURE THE VIEW!

CROWNING THE RIDGE TO CAPTURE THE VIEW!

THIS is where functional family design meets mountainside magic. Beautifully renovated and reimagined with custom, handcrafted touches throughout, this Belgrave haven delivers an inspired lifestyle with spaces designed for all-season entertaining.

The open-concept kitchen, meals and living zone forms the beating heart of the home, and flows out to the covered BBQ deck that captures tranquil views over Lysterfield valley. Or lower the blinds and chill out by the TV in the comfort of the gas fire. Inside, you will find four bedrooms including privately zoned master, luxury ensuite, plus a huge home office.

Open the barn door to reveal a very comforting and quiet space - the lounge enjoys racked ceilings and a toe toasting gas log fire. For the tradie there is the dream triple remote garage workshop that are so hard to find. Plus an extra driveway for the caravan/ boat and or additional vehicles.

The easy care low maintenance garden (1,094sqm) is fully landscaped, secure dog friendly rear yard and yes it is a near level block! What a location - a quiet made road close to transport, footy oval or walk to the town centre.

You can’t be too early, but you can be too late so make your enquiry to: Grant Skipsey 0418 528 102. ●

THE ULTIMATE EQUINE AND LIFESTYLE PROPERTY WITH MULTI-GENERATIONAL LIVING

THIS beautiful equine property has outstanding horse facilities (10 stables), sweeping valley views, income earning potential, and all coupled with a quality, lovingly renovated, spacious 5 bedroom/4bathroom grand family home that offers dual accommodation. This property is the ultimate in equine facilities, comfort and lifestyle and truly one of a kind!

The primary features include:

Home:

Stunning and solid home with 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms and 5 living areas,

• Amazing views and the ability to watch the arena, stables and paddocks from the comfort of your lounge,

• Freshly painted inside and out with new carpets,

• New European Double-Glazed windows and doors throughout, New internal lighting, Full size Snooker Room/Rumpus room, Large verandah with distant views, overlooking the new in-ground pool and property,

• Huge Master with stunning views, private balcony and walk in dressing room/ensuite,

• Self-contained apartment with split system heating and cooling, lounge, spacious bedroom, ensuite and huge walk-through robe, New reverse cycle, electric ducted heating and cooling, and built in Cast Wood Fire that supports the Hydronic Heating if that is your preference.

Equine Facilities:

• 23.6 acres offering a mix of clear land, bushland, a flowing creek and flower farm,

• Outstanding equine infrastructure, 10 stables including 2 inside and 8 external oversized (9x4.5m) undercover yards, Barn with 2 internal stables, hot wash, hay storage, tack room, feed room,

• Truck/float/boat parking inside barn + 3 x machinery bays,

• A 60 x 25m flood lit arena with composite sand and fibre surface and dressage mirrors,

• 9 paddocks with Shockcoat fencing and plenty of room for further paddocks & Separate electric gate access to the barn/ stables and all fully concreted with extensive drainage for year-round use.

Outside:

• Massive workshop/shed/hay shed – approx 30x12m + oversized, drive through carport,

• Commercial electric gate, providing secure access to the equine facilities,

• Gorgeous in ground pool with amazing views,

• Operational income producing flower farm, New water tanks and rainwater system with filtration, New sewerage system pipework, complete with new treatment plant,

• 2 x 2+ car carports for undercover entry to the home and

• 5kW solar.

Offering the ultimate in an equine lifestyle, this property really does have to be inspected to be fully appreciated.

Call to arrange a private inspection today.

• Large post and rail dog run adjacent to the home, Full security system with cameras, Electric entry and exit gates at each end of the circular drive,

Please note: All property details shown are correct at time of publishing. Some properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office. ●

Bartley Road, Belgrave Heights

38A The Patch Road, The Patch

Blackwood Street, Upwey

Mast Gully Road, Upwey $1,411,000 261-263 Olinda Monbulk Rd, Monbulk

Clifford Grove, Tecoma

Chandler & Co Leads the Way as Awards Season Celebrates Real Estate Standouts

It’s awards season in the real estate industry, and across Victoria the spotlight is shining brightly on agents and agencies who have gone above and beyond over the past 12 months.

Industry leaders realestate.com.au (REA) and RateMyAgent (RMA) have both announced their 2025 award winners, recognising outstanding performance in property sales and exceptional client satisfaction - a true measure of consistency, market presence and performance.

And here in the Dandenong Ranges, local agency Chandler & Co Real Estate has emerged as a standout performer — collecting an impressive bag of accolades across multiple suburbs.

This year, Chandler & Co agents dominated the local leaderboards:

• TOP AGENT – Belgrave: Sharyn Chandler

• TOP AGENT – Belgrave Heights / South: Sharyn Chandler

• TOP AGENT – Upwey: Brad Conder

• TOP AGENT – Tecoma: Daniel Steen

• TOP AGENT – Menzies Creek: Sharyn Chandler

• TOP AGENT – The Patch: Brad Conder

With multiple suburb wins and an exceptional 162 properties sold by

this dynamic team, Chandler & Co’s results stand as one of the most significant achievements in the Dandenong Ranges this year.

Recognition Beyond Sales Numbers

While the REA awards celebrate sales performance, the RateMyAgent awards focus on something equally important — client satisfaction. RateMyAgent honours agents who consistently receive outstanding reviews from buyers and sellers. These awards reflect not just successful transactions, but positive client experiences, strong communication and trusted relationships.

For the 2025 year, both Sharyn Chandler and Brad Conder were winners across both the Belgrave and Upweys suburbs – Arguably the two highest turnover suburbs in the area.

For Chandler & Co, recognition across both platforms highlights a balanced formula: strong results backed by genuine service.

The flurry of awards is a positive sign for the local property market, showcasingboththestrengthofsalesactivityandtheprofessionalism of agents working across the Hills.

For Chandler & Co Real Estate, this awards season has cemented their position as the area’s top-performing agency, with the team setting the benchmark for both results and reputation.

IMMACULATE HIDDEN GARDEN HOME

TUCKED away in a peaceful garden setting of almost one-third of an acre, this double-storey brick home delivers classic charm, timeless character, and a wonderfully easy way of living. The undercover verandah wraps around three sides, giving the home a welcoming presence and plenty of sheltered outdoor spots to enjoy a cuppa, watch the gardens change with the seasons, or spot the native birdlife that regularly visits.

Inside, 9ft ceilings, polished floorboards, gas ducted heating, and double-hung windows create a warm and comfortable atmosphere. The spacious timber kitchen is perfectly placed at the heart of the home, offering an island bench, excellent bench space and storage, a dishwasher, wall oven, and gas stovetop. Formal and informal living areas spread out from either side, giving the whole family room to relax, gather, or find their own space.

Upstairs, The master suite is positioned privately and features a generous ensuite, large

walk-in robe, and an adjoining study nook. Two further bedrooms each include triple built-in robes, serviced by a central bathroom and separate toilet, along with a large laundry.

Outdoors, the beautiful gardens wrap the home in colour and calm, attracting abundant birdlife and creating a sense of tranquillity that’s hard to beat. The fully fenced rear yard is ideal for children and pets, while the undercover entertaining area easily caters for weekend barbecues or peaceful afternoons in the shade. A circular driveway leads to a remote double garage with concrete floor and power, and the high single carport is perfect for storing a caravan or boat.

Call to arrange a private inspection today.

Please note: All property details shown are correct at time of publishing. Some properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office.

TheUltimateLifestyleEscape –Pool,Sheds,Views &RoomforEveryone. Seton2.5lushacresinPakenhamUpper,thissuperb5-bedroom,3-bathroomhomeblendsluxury withcountrycharm.Builtin2010,itfeaturesslabheatingthroughout, awoodfire,ductedvacuum, andreverse-cyclecomfort.Thestunningkitchenoffersgranitebenches,gascooking, awalk-in pantrywithautolights,and abi-foldserverywindowtothesunroom.Enjoymultiplelivingareasand amastersuitewithdoublewalk-inrobesplus aspa-likeensuite.Outside,relaxunderthevastalfresco, diveintothesalt-chlorinepool,orunwindbythefirepit. Ahugepoweredshed,doublegarage,4-car carport,andgeneratorplughaveyousorted.There’salsoa separatestudiowithkitchenette,dog run,veggiegardens,chookpen,twostables,haystorage,andpaddockswithwater—everything youneedforanidylliccountrylifestyle.

AaronDay M 0407365994

M 0422996451

Stunning &ImmaculateHillsRetreatwithDualAccommodation &Beautiful ViewsonOver3 Acres

Setonjustover3 acreswith2 streetfrontages, acirculardriveway& viewsfromeverywindow,this exceptionalpropertyblendsspace,flexibility& tranquillity.Themainhomefeatures3 bedrooms (masterwithensuite &walk-inrobe)a brightopen-plankitchenwithstonebenchtops &900mm gasstove &split-levellivingwitha loungewarmedby awoodfire &splitsystem.Stepontothe expansivedecktoenjoydistanthillviews, aspabath &overheadheaters —perfectforyear-round entertaining.A separatestudiowithbathroom,Juliettebalcony& workshopbelowaddsdual-living orguestpotential.Additionalhighlightsinclude a4-carpoweredgarage,extensiveveggiegarden,2 fencedpaddocks,anorchardof27fruittrees &an8.5KVAdieselgeneratorwithautomaticcut-in.

AcreageFreedomwithSpacetoGrow –JustMinutesfromGembrook. Setonalmost15acresinGembrook,thisbrickhomeoffersthespace,infrastructure &self-sufficient lifestyleacreagebuyersarechasing.Anundercoverentryopensto aformalloungewithtimber flooring,flowingthroughtotheopen-plankitchen,dining &secondlivingzone.Thekitchenis designedfordailyeasewithanelectriccooktop,dishwasher,expansivebenchspace &excellent storage,whiletheadjoininglivingareaiswarmedbya woodfire &framedbylargewindows capturingthesurroundingoutlook.Themasterbedroom &twoadditionalbedroomsallincludebuiltinrobes,servicedby acentralbathroom &separatetoilet,with afunctionallaundryofferingoutdoor access.Outdoorsa 15m x8mshedwithconcretefloor,power& hot/coldwater,singlelock-up garage,twofencedpaddocks,woodshed,chickencoop,fruittrees,watertanks& 5kWsolar.

BethanySullivan M 0438844968 AaronDay M 0438680032

3 A 1 B 6 C

Perchedon2,671sqminpeacefulAvonsleigh,momentsfromEmerald’stownship,schools& shops, thisstriking4-bedroom,2-bathroomhomeblendsarchitecturalflairwitheverydaycomfort &breath takingtreetop &valleyviews.A wideverandahwrapsaroundthehome,leadinginsidetosoaring ceilings,timberfloors&astunningcentralatriumthatfillsthespacewithnaturallightbyday& frames thestarsbynight.Thestylishkitchenfeaturesstonebenchtops,integratedappliances &a serene outlook —perfectforrelaxedliving& entertaining.Themastersuiteenjoysverandahaccess,walk-in robe &ensuite,while 3furtherbedroomsareservicedby afamilybathroom.Freshlypainted& fitted withgasductedheating &evaporativecooling,thehomealsoincludesanundercoverentertaining area,doublegarage,carport& leafygardens —a trueHillssanctuary.

A STATEMENT IN STYLE AND SPACE

BURSTING with character and bathed in natural light, this beautifully renovated family residence blends warm timbers, soaring angled ceilings and expansive timber windows to create a home that feels both inviting and architecturally striking.

From the moment you step inside, the dramatic vaulted ceilings frame a stunning main lounge, delivering a memorable setting for everyday living and effortless entertaining. Open plan in design, the spacious living area flows seamlessly into the dining space and showpiece kitchen; completely designed for connection, comfort and appeal. Complete with a generous island bench, butler’s pantry and quality appliances, the kitchen is both highly functional and visually impressive.

Accommodation is abundant, offering four oversized bedrooms plus a substantial music room or second living zone that easily converts to a fifth bedroom if required. Bedrooms two and three are particularly generous in scale, creating ideal retreats for teenagers, younger children or guests. Two stylish bathrooms and a large, well-appointed laundry further enhance the home’s practicality, while the thoughtful renovation throughout ensures you can simply move in and enjoy.

Set on approximately 1,478m², the outdoor spaces are just as captivating. An undercover timber entertaining deck with spa provides the perfect place to unwind, while tiered garden beds, established surrounds, excellent parking, a shed and carport complete the lifestyle appeal.

Year-round comfort is assured with multiple split systems throughout the home, complemented by the ambience and warmth of a gas log fire in the main living area.

Positioned within easy walking distance to Belgrave Heights Christian School and only a short drive to Belgrave South, Belgrave and Tecoma townships, this exceptional property offers space, style and convenience in one impressive package.

A home of warmth, flexibility and undeniable presence, 6 Gumtree Grove is ready to welcome its next family. ●

5 ACRE HOBBY FARM PLUS PLANS APPROVED

HERE is your chance to own a rare small acreage holding very close to Monbulk town centre yet ideally located down a quiet country road.

All cleared with views and open sunny aspects for growing or have your four-legged pets grazing.

Huge terraced site (70m x 20m approx.) with approved plans for a stunning 4-bedroom homestead and a stylish barn.

The W.B. farmhouse is simple yet functional, open plan with sliding glass doors to a covered verandah, combustion wood heater and split system heating and cooling. Three bedrooms plus a self-contained bungalow.

Even includes a 7 Meg water pumping licence if needed.

The options are plenty: - live the farm life; lease the home for approx. $550wk + bungalow $310wk = $860wk, renovate, extend or build that dream home (STCA) higher up on the block to capture the views. The choice is yours but don’t miss this opportunity. ●

BUIlTFOrFAMIlYlIFE!

***CLOSINGDATEFOROFFERSTUESDAY17THMARCHAT4PM***

Setona fullyfencedblock,thiswarm &welcominghomeoffersthekindofspaceand flexibilitythatgrowingordownsizingfamiliestrulyappreciate.Inside,thehomefeatures 2separatelivingareas,newhybrid flooring,S/S’s,GDH, adownstairssemiself-contained area,outdoorentertaining,gardenshed,chookrun,watertank,6.5kwsolarpanels, poweredworkshopwitha generatorpowerconnectionandbackyardvehicleaccess.

CaitiEllis 0493136937

5ACREHOBBYFARM

WITHPlANSAPPrOvEDFOrA4BEDHOME &BArN AraresmallacreageholdingclosetoMonbulktowncentreyetideallylocateddowna quietcountryroad.Clearedwithviews,opensunnyaspects& includes ahuge70mx20m approx.terracedsitewithapprovedplansfora4bed.homestead &a stylishbarn.This farmhousefeaturesslidingglassdoorstoa coveredverandah,combustionwoodheater S/Sheating &cooling, aself-containedbungalow&a7 Megwaterpumpinglicence.The optionsareplenty,alternatively,leasethehomeandbungalowforapprox.$860p/w

GrantSkipsey 0418528102

ARARELIFESTYLEOPPORTUNITY

lOCATEDINTHEHEArTOFMONBUlk

Sethightocapturerollinghillviews,thisunique& thoughtfullydesignedhomeoffersthe perfectbalanceofcomfort,convenience& relaxedcountryliving.Offeringexcellent separationofspaces &aneasy,single-level flow.Featuringopenplanliving& diningwith seamlessindoor/outdoorconnection,GDH,wood fire,A/C’s,ceilingfansinallbedrooms, butler’spantry,solarpower,fullyfencedlandscapedgardens&alarge,sealeddriveway.

MickDolphin 0429684522 DESIGNMEETSMOUNTAINSIDEMAGIC

Beautifullyrenovated& reimaginedwithcustom,handcraftedtouches,thishaven deliversa lifestyleforall-seasonentertaining,featuringanopen-conceptkitchen,covered BBQdeckwithtranquilviewsoverLysterfieldvalley,gasfire,masterwithluxuryensuite,a hugehomeoffice,rackedceilings,tripleremotegarage& workshop &anextradriveway forthecaravanoradditionalvehicles,allonaneasycarelowmaintenancenear LEVEL,1094sqmfullylandscaped &secureblock.Setin aquietstreet &walktoTown.

GrantSkipsey 0418528102

Finals hope hangs by thread

By David Waters

Eastern golf course put on a show for round 6 of the Eastern Suburbs over 55s Senior Pennant.

A rosy sky as the sun rose, a slight breeze up high.

That was just enough for a few hot air balloons to take flight.

Pelicans on the lakes and ducks too.

Of course, out here at Eastern kangaroos were abundant and grazing peacefully.

The ground staff were working from early hours. Teams of tractors blowing dew off fairways and other men clipping and mowing greens.

All this in preparation for an excellent day golfing for a bunch of old guys who think they can play golf well.

The conditions excellent though they were, did help play, but certainly made for an enjoyable walk. (Eat your heart out Mark Twain).

Some precision shots down fairways and approaches to greens were applauded by opponents and partners.

The greens being true and quick were tested fully by a few players.

They could not judge the speed and allowed for borrow when there was none.

As the day progressed putts came closer and sportsmanship and generosity showed, as the two footers were conceded as in, no matter who putted.

All teams in this pennant system play against a home club.

This week it was the turn of Churchill/Waverley. Playing Eastern the aspirants to top positions were well beaten.

Outfoxed by the home teams, the green team suffered a 4 and a half to 3 and a half loss and the gold lost six to two.

Always next week they say.

The possibility of a finals berth is hanging by a thread.

Now the challenge is to defeat the top gold team by heaps and hold off the other teams.

Top team Box Hill in both green and gold groups might just play each other yet.

Nearby neighbours were drawn this week to play each other.

Bragging rights were at stake.

Both at the lower end of green and gold ladders, something to share with others although not a trophy.

Gardiners Run gold defeated Yering Meadows gold, and Yering Meadows green soundly walloped Gardiners Run green.

A little bit each way.

A draw for braggers.

In Heritage vs Eastwood, neither took a win tied at four to four in green, in the gold camp Heritage won the tussle to move up the ladder, but not to the top.

Golf is great but not everything.

Once all players were in, the noise level rose as the drinks were knocked back by the thirsty and garrulous golfers.

The red faces due to the warmth slowly came back to normal.

A delicious lunch was served.

All players appreciated the efforts of the catering and bar staff and admired the newly finished

•

club rooms.

As the scores were read out and announcements made, the day concluded in time to miss school pick-up traffic.

Results for Gold Group.

Eastern Six def Churchill/Waverley 2.

Heritage 5 and a half, def Eastwood 2 and a half. Gardiners 4 and a half def Yering 3 and a half.

Results for Green Group.

Eastern 4 and a half def Churchill/Waverley 3 and a half.

Yering 6 def Gardiners 2.

Heritage 4 tied Eastwood 4.

If

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How to Apply

The Eastern 55 and overs golf team were outfoxed by Churchill/Waverly. (File: 298609)

SPORT Lights, action at Monbulk

Two pitches at the Monbulk Regional Soccer Centre have had their lights upgraded recently and are ready for action, with a special celebration yet to come ahead when the season officially opens on 20 March.

Monbulk MP, Daniela De Martino, on Monday, 2 March, joined Yarra Ranges Council and Monbulk Rangers Soccer Club representatives to switch on the new lights, made possible by a $200,000 investment from the State Government.

“Seeing these new lights switched on at this much-loved local club is incredibly special. These upgrades aren’t just about infrastructurethey’re about giving more players across all ages more time on the pitch and more opportunities to develop their skills,” Ms De Martino said.

“Monbulk has such a strong football culture, built by passionate volunteers and families. I’m proud to support this project that strengthens that spirit and ensures the club continues to thrive for years to come.”

Works installed 150 lux LED lighting across the centre’s two football pitches, giving local footballers extra time and space to perfect their game.

Brighter lights mean better use and increased number of hours on the ground.

The new lights will also help expand local junior development programs and teams, giving more aspiring sport stars the opportunity to kit up and get in the game.

In addition, the new lights will last longer and reduce energy use and cost.

The new lighting also opens the reserve to more community use, including casual play and local events.

The Victorian Budget 2025/26 is providing $20 million to support the development of highquality, accessible community sports infrastructure across the state, including through the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund.

It’s part of the more than $2.4 billion invested by the State Government into community sport and active recreation infrastructure since 2014.

From oval redevelopments to lighting upgrades, investments like these are all about creating jobs, stimulating local economies, and improving the health, wellbeing, and social outcomes for Victorian communities.

Ms De Martino acknowledged the Yarra Ranges Shire Council for its more than $48,000 financial contribution and commitment to delivering the project.

Super pennant season wraps up for the Hawks

By Rob Wilson

The Monbulk Bowling clubs fantastic Summer of Pennant came to its conclusion this week with the Tuesday pennant teams finishing off their finals campaign.

Team 2 Division 3 after finishing 2nd on the ladder and ventured to Chirnside Park to play in a qualifying game that was disrupted by weather.

After a postponement of play and a readjournment a few days later because of severe weather conditions the Chirnside Park team was too good in a close match which meant that The Hawks had to use their double chance card at home against Lilydale in the Preliminary Final.

No question the Monbulk side has had a great season and can be rightly proud, but they would be disappointed with their start in this do or die spotting the opposition a big 23 shot head start before the halfway break.

However in what was a more accurate reflection of the form attitude showed by the team during the season the team dug in and showed some serious fight getting to within touching length of the opposition to provide some hope.

But unfortunately the big deficit was ultimately to prove too great a task and the only rewards coming the way of the team in this one was the appreciation from the club to a team that did very well and represented the club with pride.

liams, and James Anderson with the guys never giving up but it was not to be. Congratulations and well-done Hawks.

Team 3 Division 5

In one of the more bizarre results to report on this Semi Final at Monbulk vs Healesville was interrupted and ultimately postponed due an extreme weather day with only 3 ends to play with the Monbulk side trailing by 5 shots.

support he received from Ann Philpott, Patricia Ray and Darren Ward. Mike Harris (18/23) supported by Des Ray, Frank Mileto and Tristan Berry fought hard and did their best but eventually succumbed late.

The Graeme Seymour (16/23) lead rinks have performed well throughout the season and no different in this won with a stellar effort that just saw the result go the wrong way from the perspective of the home side, but very impressive season.

Another Monbulk Bowls club success story with our 3rd side representing well. Men’s Club Championship.

RobEspernbergerwinstheMen’ssinglesChampionship against Jack Pater. And against such a formidable opponent in Jack, Rob can be rightly proud of his first Club Championship win.

In front of a thoroughly entertained group of members this high-quality game may very well have been judged by many as something of an upset, with Jack having a coveted record at Monbulk and Rob being the new boy on the block.

Raymond Pike (18/16) in his role as skip played a very good personal game and his rink of Don Barnetson, Andrew Mackie and Raymond Aarts fought hard alongside their skipper to help pull off a last end rink win. Graeme Goller (12/24) had a great season but try as they did he and his team of Margaret O’Brien, Louise Thomas and Peter Koomen could bridge the gap.

Rinse and repeat for the rink of Andrew Smith (19/29), Peter Lee, Martin “Grumpy” Wil-

So back they came a week later to complete. Monbulk won all 3 ends that were to be contested but still ended up losing by the smallest margin 1 shot, 56/57. Bruce Cockerill ( 22/11) threw absolutely everything at the effort trying to carry his team on his back to victory including bowling the winning bowl with his last until the opposition skip matched the effort to snatch the victory away from Hawks.

Bruce would have been well pleased with the

Shot for shot to10 each the trend of the game had all the hallmarks of a game that might go down to the wire in a close one. But from that point Rob pulled out some outstanding shots and matched any surge that the experience Pater could present.

At the end of the game despite the quality of his opponent Rob played better when it counted and has his name written on the club honour board forever. Congratulations Rob.

The Monbulk Rangers would love to welcome club members, the wider community and sponsors to join them for their 2026 Season Opening

Night event from 6pm, Friday 20 March to see players and new LED lights in action in a few weeks.

For more information about infrastructure grant opportunities available, visit sport.vic.gov. au.

Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino joined Yarra Ranges Council members and Monbulk Rangers Soccer Club representatives to switch on the lights. (Supplied)

Monbulk Regional Soccer Centre has had its light upgraded.

L-R: Rob Espernberger wins men’s club championship against Jack Pater. (Supplied)

Final score.

Two for three ain’t bad

By Chris Anderson

It was a case of ‘two out of three aint bad’ for the Mt Evelyn Cricket Club over the long weekend as the 2nd XI and 4th XI booked their place in next weekend’s Grand Final whilst the 5th XI were valiant in their Semi Final loss. Considering all three entered the weekend as the lower ranked team, it was a meritorious effort from the Mounters.

The Professionals Outer East Second XI entered their contest against Wandin with an air of confidence after finding form over the closing rounds of the season, including a victory at home against the Bulldogs. Captain Joseph Chamberlin won the toss and took the old adage of putting the runs on the board in a big game. Early on his decision would be justified as openers Adam Smith and Luke Jones gave the Mounters the perfect start with an imposing opening stand of 60 as they set the foundations for a big score. Smith would exit with a handy contribution of 35, whilst Jones (37) and Brisbane-Flynn (34) would give the score a boost.

The one failing was that the batsmen were making starts but not kicking on to match breaking scores. When the Mounters lost three wickets with the score on 132 it looked as if things were starting to unravel. Searching for the match winning surge, the Mounters found it in the form of a masterful partnership between Brad Westaway and Chris Morrow. Cautiously rebuilding the innings early, the pair timed the run to perfection. Westaway’s solid approach was complimented with some free flowing strokeplay from Morrow. The pair would peel off a 119-run partnership that would put the Mounters in a position of strength.

Unfortunately, Westaway would fall short of a much deserved half century when he fell for 48, but this would be just a blip on the radar for the Mounters as young gun Billie Laird would join Morrow at the wicket and the pair would put the icing on the cake as they would blast 34 runs off the final three overs to boost the total to an imposing 6/285.

Although the total looked imposing on paper, both teams entered day two knowing full well that the Bulldogs only had to follow the day one blueprint to challenge the score. It turned out to be a day of missed opportunities for the Bulldogs as they were able to avoid any disastrous, but on the flip side, they couldn’t build a partnership north of 39-runs. Kynan Yates has been a consistent leader of the Mt Evelyn attack, and

once again he was the pillar upon which the rest of the bowling unit worked around. 18 overs, 6 maidens, 2 for 51, a good days work from Yates. Luke Jones would be the other multiple wicket taker with 2/22, whilst four others chipped in with wickets of their own. When the dust settled, the Mounters had bowled the Bulldogs out for 147 to secure an impressive all round victory.

The team now travel up the Warburton Highway to their next stop, old foes Seville in what promises to be a hard fought Grand Final.

The Hop Hen Brewing 4th XI had the challenge of overturning a final round defeat to St Andrews as they faced the same opponents in their Semi Final. The Mounters entered the contest buoyed by their final round showing but fully aware that they would need to find another gear if they were to pass the classy Saints. Mt Evelyn would get first crack with the bat and would immediately be put under pressure with Campbell Manser falling early. When the reliable Lachie Robertson fell with the score on 11, the Mounters had to find their resilience if they were to turn the momentum. Brother Connor and Jarrod Hartman delivered the steadying salvo with a cautious partnership, but it was still nervous going as Connor Hartman would fall before the team score had reached 50.

Jarrod would start to establish himself at the wicket and the runs would begin to flow. 39 runs would flow off Hartman’s bay until he was inexplicably run out, still leaving the Mounters with work to do. Fortunately, Craig Steele and Ezra Joyce would nurse the team to the end of their first split with the score finishing on 4/97. Not a bad position, but one that could be a tad short depending on the score that St Andrews could muster.

Dwayne Paisley would be the thorn in Mt Evelyn’s side in their final round contest as his century would be the difference between the two teams. You can imagine the team’s delight when Campbell Manser disturbed his woodwork without him reaching double figures throwing a completely new complexion on the game. Unperturbed, the Saints regathered quickly and set about establishing themselves in the contest. Just as they were looking comfortable and on the verge of wrestling day one ascendancy, Mike Leonard would breakthrough with a crucial caught and bowled chance, and when Luke Thomson captured a brace of wickets late in the day, honours would be even with the Saints finishing on 4/80.

The Saints made a strong start to day two and

moved the score to 5/150 just after drinks were taken and they looked set to threaten a score that would take some chasing. Enter the partnership breaker, Mike Leonard. Just as he did on day one, Leonard broke the long standing partnership and the game opened up for the visitors. In the space of quick succession, the Mounters would blast their way through the remainder of the batting order to dismiss the Saints for 160, a long way short of what looked possible only a short time before. Leonard would finish with 3/17

The chase had become much more achievable in the blink of an eye and with calm heads at the wicket, Mt Evelyn had gained ascendency. The strokeplay of Craig Steele would be well complimented by the nerves of steel from the unflappable Ezra Joyce. The pair would continue their partnership in such a calm and assured way that the victory looked a certainty from the outset. Unperturbed by some probing bowling, the pair would tick the score over steadily. The only hiccup would be the wicket of Joyce who deserved to be there when the winning runs were scored. Steele would carry the side to victory with a fantastic unbeaten innings of 72. A match winning innings.

The Mounters challenges don’t get any easier as they now face an experienced and powerful Ainslie Park outfit in the Grand Final. One things for sure, the team are gaining momentum at the right time of the season and will relish the opportunity to claim another big scalp in consecutive weeks.

Like the 4th XI, the Lilydale Tyres 5th XI had the monumental task of taking down one of the dominant forces in the F Grade competition in Boronia. In their two previous clashes this season, the Hawks have completely outplayed, and dominated, the Mounters with relentless force. A task that would test the resolve of mere mortals, but one the Mounters were going to take on with full gusto.

Things couldn’t get off to a more precarious start for the Mounters as they lost key bat Craig Kenins early and when Ryan Doyle, Jason and Ben Dunstone fell soon after, it looked as if it was going to be a tall order for the Mounters as they fell to 4/39. Like his son in the 4th XI, Leighton Joyce would be the steady had that would help the Mounters back into the contest. With the support of Mark Kuhne, the pair went about rescuing the situation. A 54-run partnership would ensure the contest would be put to the Hawks and the Mounters wouldn’t be pushed aside.

Unfortunately, the late wickets of Kuhne and Paul Flavel as their first split came to a close would put a dint in proceedings for the Mounters and a score of 6/100 put them in a precarious position and a missed opportunity.

The Hawks looked in command early in their innings and at 1/49 looked to be in a dominant position. Captain Jason Dunstone would throw the ball to leg spinner Angus Van Hoogstraten and he was able to clinch the vital breakthrough. Jacdan Mikaelian would then throw the cat amongst the pigeons with two quick wickets and all of the sudden the contest was back on. Regaining their composure, the Hawks were again able to take the upper hand with a crucial partnership, with a late wicket to Ben Dunstone keeping the Mounters in the contest with the Hawks finishing day one at 5/115.

Mt Evelyn made a bright start to day two as a brace of wickets from Paul Flavel early reduced the hosts to 7/129 and it had the Mounters dreaming of a chase under 150. As had been the trend, the Hawks fought back and crucial late order runs proved decisive. Angus Van Hoogstraten would break the cycle again, but a 46-run 9th wicket partnership followed and the task was getting greater by the over. Andrew Frid would be the unlikely circuit breaker as his entry into the bowling attack would see the final two wickets fall swiftly to see the Hawks innings tucked away for 211 leaving the Mounters to chase another 112 runs if their season was to progress through to next week.

Joyce resumed his stay at the crease with Frid his partner as the pair were set the big task of getting the lion’s share of the remaining runs. With Joyce remaining calm and unmoved at one end, Frid injected some firepower to the innings with some flamboyant strokeplay as the pair complimented each other as they quickly ticked the score over. In quick time, the partnership had knocked 41 runs off the deficit and some harboured thoughts of an unlikely victory. When Joyce was inexplicably run out for 49, the end quickly arrived as the last four wickets fell for just 13 runs as the Mounters were dismissed for 154.

Although disappointed with the final result, the team could be well pleased, and proud, of their efforts against a tough opponent, and the team has acquitted themselves admirably after stepping up a grade this season. All bodes well for the fuel tire of this team.

The Second XI and Fourth XI booked their place in the final next weekend. (Supplied)

Most teams celebrated wins over the weekend.

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