Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 2nd June 2026

Big success

By Gabriella Weir and Mikayla van Loon

The third Hills MND Big Freeze took place on Sunday 31 May at Paradise Valley Hotel and was described by the organisers as a “hugely successful day”.

Raising funds for FightMND, the calendar event supports the charity in research into treatments for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and improving the life and care for people living with the disease.

In the winter chill, the event returned to its roots in Emerald with an ice bucket challenge and the new addition of a walk from Puffing Billy Park to Paradise Valley Hotel.

Signage lined the track highlighting statistics and the achievements of FightMND and this year ten challengers volunteered to have an icy bucket poured over their heads, ranging from football club committee members to RSL presidents and community leaders.

To read more and see pictures from the day, turn to page 11

Survival in Selby

By Tanya Steele

The future of Selby Community House has been green lit as the local council has fronted up to repair the site after massive termite damage was discovered at the community house late last year.

Yarra Ranges Council has formally confirmed it will undertake the major repairs and improvements to save the much-loved Selby Community House building after it was shut down and then had to operate across multiple venues to continue operations.

Yarra Ranges Council has said it expects operations to progressively return to the building from

spring and Selby Community House shared the welcome news on 29 May via social media.

Selby Community House Manager, Danielle McMinn, said the news had brought relief and hope to the community.

“Council has reaffirmed their commitment to the future of Selby Community House,” she said.

“They understand how important this place is to the township and the wider hills community, and they’re just as excited as we are to see it open, better than ever.”

Acknowledging the disruption to staff and volunteers, Yarra Ranges Lyster ward Councillor Peter Mcilwain said the council appreciate that

it’s been a disruptive time for the house and for residents accessing their services.

“I’d like to extend a sincere thank you on behalf of the council for everyone’s patience, understanding and flexibility while we worked through this process,” he said.

Yarra Ranges Council said it plans to make essential repairs and also take the chance to make other general improvements to the building.

“In addition to repairing the termite damage, we’ll install new flooring and split-system heating and cooling units, address some of the temporary fixes that have been made to the building over the years and, generally, freshen up the building,” Cr

“We expect to have the works completed later this year, with services gradually returning to the building from spring, and everyone back and settled into their new home for the new year.”

Ms McMinn said that it’s incredibly exciting to know the House won’t just be repaired, but also refreshed and improved for the future.

“While there is still a lot to work through, we are hopeful of having everyone back together again in our beautiful building by the beginning of next year,” she said.

Read more on page 5

The Stickland family on the weekend. (Gary Sissons: 556165)

Mcilwain.

Mite threat to bees

By Oliver Winn

Outer east beekeepers are on high alert after chemically resistant varroa mites were detected in the state.

Agriculture Victoria confirmed an apiary in north east Victoria was found to house mites with resistance to chemical treatments on 25 May.

It comes after the dreaded varroa mite was found in Gembrook by beekeeper Michelle Van Der Vlugt last month.

Ms Van Der Vlugt said chemically resistant varroa mites would make what was already a difficult situation even worse for beekeepers.

“These mites will severely affect Victorian Beekeepers’ ability to rotate treatments during our ever changing seasons,” she said.

The mites were found to be resistant to pyrethroid and formamidine chemicals, which are commonly used to treat varroa mites.

But, as varroa mites continue to adapt to the use of chemical treatments, Ms Van Der Vlugt said beekeepers will have to adopt a more holistic approach to managing the mites.

“Beekeepers need to create a pest management plan utilising as many methods as possible. These will require more attention during inspections and precise actions in response to seasonal behaviours,” she said.

Alternative treatment options include the use of seasonal brood breaks, where beekeepers can halt the reproduction of varroa mites by temporarily halting the reproduction process of the bees themselves.

“Non-synthetic treatment options are available, however, they are more sensitive to temperature changes and not as effective on the mite populations as the synthetic options were,” Ms Van Der Vlugt said.

Agriculture Victoria’s biosecurity executive director Charlotte Austin said the detection of pyrethroid resistance in Victoria highlights the importance of beekeepers maintaining a close watch on miticide treatment results.

“Beekeepers are urged to regularly monitor mite levels in their hives to check that treatments are working, and rotate miticides with different chemical groups as part of best practice management.”

Ms Van Der Vlugt said beekeepers should keep an eye out for increasing mite loads while treatments are in the hive.

“If the threshold becomes too high, it will cause the colony to collapse.”

The likely pathway of the pyrethroid resistant mites into Victoria was in hives moved from interstate last year and subsequently sold to a Victorian beekeeper.

Earlyin2026,chemicallyresistantmiteswere detected in New South Wales and Queensland.

The spread of mites throughout Australia dates back to 2022 when it arrived in New South Wales.

Thecostsoftreatingvarroamiteforcedmany beekeepers out of the industry in 2022 and has had flow-on effects to other industries too.

“It becomes quite expensive for each hive when you need to use a different treatment and

Renewed push to protect pet rabbits

By Gabriella Weir

A petition to include rabbits in the Domestic Animals Act (DAA) in Victoria has been revived throughout May, and the movement is being assisted by an Olinda-based rabbit rescue.

The Rabbit Runaway Orphanage (RRO) has been campaigning for this change in Victoria since 2014 to assist the overpopulation and dumping crisis.

Rabbits are the third most popular companion animal in Australia after cats and dogs, however are not covered by the DAA.

This means local councils do not have an obligation to accept and rehome surrendered rabbits, or have responsibility for the dumping and backyard breeding of them.

“If domestic rabbits were included under the Victorian Domestic Animals Act, councils would have some responsibility for the uncontrolled breeding, sale, surrender and rehoming of pet rabbits,” said Dr Judi Inglis, one of the owners of the Orphanage. “Currently, this burden falls almost entirely on private rescues like ours, which operate with limited resources and volunteer support.”

The original online petition in 2014 gained 15,068 signatures but was not submitted. In 2023, a resubmission was made to the state government, although there was no legislative progress within the government.

In the same year, Georgie Purcell from the Animal Justice Party restated the issue with the Victorian government but no advances were made.

The latest petition has been coordinated by multiple people within the Victorian rabbit welfare community. Once this current petition gets 2000 signatures, it will be presented in the Legislative Council by Ms Purcell.

“We primarily raise awareness through conversations with visitors onsite, encouraging petition signatures, and through social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram,” said Dr Inglis. “Until there is government recognition of the growing domestic rabbit welfare crisis, change will remain difficult. This issue is extremely important because we are dealing firsthand with the growing number of dumped, abandoned and unwanted rabbits every day,” she said on the significance of the upcoming state election in regards to the campaign.

The RRO was Victoria’s first no-kill rabbit rescue. It was officially founded and gained charity status in 2009 by owners Dr Inglis and Bryce Inglis. The Olinda-based rescue receives no government funding, meaning it relies on donations from the public and runs on volunteers.

The hardcopy petition is available to sign at most rabbit-savvy vets and rabbit-specific rescues such as RRO and Bluey and Alice Bunny Refuge.

how many treatments you need per hive and as compared to how many you purchase at once,”

Ms Van Der Vlugt said.

She said the increasing threat of varroa mites had reshaped the demands and expectations on beekeepers when managing their hives.

“Knowing how to identify the mites and what can be done to manage them gives beekeepers the best emotional start to the new life of a beekeeper,” she said.

Education and training remains key for beekeepers as they wrangle a new normal.

Free training is available at: varroa.org.au.

More information about the situation surrounding varroa mite can be found here: shorturl.at/rfHmX.

Ways to support the RRO include volunteering, donating or becoming a corporate sponsor of an enclosure.

Michelle Van Der Vlugt manages Bec’s Beehive Supplies in Gembrook. (Oliver Winn: 549193)

Varroa mites originally landed in Australia in 2022. (Luis Ascui/AAP)

Bryce and Judi Inglis were the first to establish a no-kill rabbit rescue organisation.

New Basin CFA station

After 10 years of planning and advocacy, The Basin CFA will move into a new home base, ready to celebrate its 100 years of operation in 2027.

Volunteers are a step closer to receiving a brand-new fire station, announced by emergency services minister Vicki Ward, Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor, Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino and Labor candidate for Bayswater Julie Buxton on 21 May.

“Safety, space, more convenient facilities for us to use. It’s a lot bigger than where we are now. We’re so tight for space where we are that it’s almost unsafe,” firefighter and building committee spokesperson Peter Shaw said when asked what the new station would provide.

“We’ll hopefully attract more members and more volunteers on the basis that we’ve got room to put them and a more modern building to work from.”

The current station is 40 years old and has around 65 members, of which about 40 to 45 are active firefighters.

“We certainly need volunteers. We’re interested in people joining us and helping out,” Mr Shaw said.

Intrec Management Pty Ltd has been appointed as the builder for the new station at 5R Basin-Olinda Road, which will include a motor room with three drive-through bays, more storage space, a multipurpose room, turnout areas and a new car park.

“We’re proud to be delivering a new station which will support our dedicated volunteers in doing their incredible work,” Ms De Martino said.

The new station will also include multiple eco-friendly aspects such as solar panels, rainwater recycling and an electric vehicle charging station.

“General runoff water will be saved, and also rainwater will be saved for use in some of our training,” Mr Shaw said.

The Basin Fire Brigade has stood by the community through its toughest times for almost 100 years, including the 2026 Summer fires in Walwa, Longwood, Otways and Natimuk.

The building of the new station is part of the State Government’s $109 million Capital Upgrades Program.

“The Basin Fire Brigade has always been there for our community when we have needed them most, so I’m stoked that we’re providing them with new digs to help them keep our community

IN BRIEF

Police seek witnesses after Kilsyth crash

Police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage following a collision in Kilsyth on Wednesday 27 May.

Around 5.30pm, a silver Toyota RAV4 travelling east along Mt Dandenong Road collided with a red Nissan Patrol near the Churinga Shopping Centre. Police say the female driver of the Toyota fled the scene on foot following the crash. Investigators are urging anyone who witnessed the incident, or who may have dashcam footage from the area at the time, to come forward. Information can be provided confidentially via Crime Stoppers.

Police seek dashcam after Rowville incident

Police are appealing for dashcam footage and witnesses following an alleged road rage incident in Rowville on Tuesday 12 May.

Around 8.50pm, at the intersection of Napoleon and Kelletts Roads, it is alleged two men exited a vehicle and approached another car before smashing the passenger-side window. Investigators are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or captured it on dashcam to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Rowville Police Station on 9764 0996, quoting reference 260202808.

BMX bike handed in to Boronia Police

Boronia Police are seeking the owner of a BMX bike that was recently handed in after being found in a laneway near Townley Place, Ferntree Gully. The CULT BMX bike was located on 27 April 2026 and brought to police. Anyone who believes the bike may belong to them, or who knows the owner, is urged to contact Boronia Police on 9760 6600. Proof of ownership will be required. Reference: 202604-E-2418.

Police seek Knox CCTV network

Victoria Police are calling on Knox residents and business owners with CCTV systems to register their cameras to assist with local crime prevention and investigations.

Police are building a database of community CCTV locations across the Knox area, which can be used to help identify persons of interest and support ongoing investigations. Camera owners willing to assist are asked to provide details including contact information, camera location and coverage, and how long footage is stored. Police say local units from the Knox Police Service Area will also be conducting door-to-door visits to gather information, however residents can assist by emailing their details directly. Further information and registration details can be provided via EYEWATCH-KNOX-MGR@police.vic.gov.au.

safe,” Mr Taylor said.

“Our emergency services are the best at what they do and we’re making sure they have what they need to keep Victorians safe,” Ms Ward said.

The builders have already started setting up at the Basin-Olinda Road site, with things set to get underway soon.

“We’re expecting the actual works to start almost any day now,” Mr Shaw said.

The new CFA station will be delivered in early to mid-2027, in the brigade’s 100th year.

“We’re hoping to have it at the new station,” Mr Shaw said about the 100th anniversary celebration.

Have your say on community safety

Victorians are being encouraged to have their say on local safety and policing through the annual Community Sentiment Survey. The survey is open to people who live, work or socialise in Victoria and seeks feedback on how safe residents feel in their local area, ideas to improve policing services and preferred ways to engage with police and Protective Services Officers (PSOs). Survey responses will help inform future policing priorities and community engagement initiatives. The survey is open until 30 June and can be completed online.

The Basin Fire Station has been outgrown by the brigade, with new facilities now on the way at Basin-Olinda Road. (Stewart Chambers: 556425)

Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor, emergency services minister Vicki Ward, Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino and Bayswater Labor candidate Julie Buxton at the new station site. (Supplied)

By Gabriella Weir

NEWS Transport big ticket item

By Mikayla van Loon

Public transport and connectivity will be a big ticket item for the east’s councils heading into the state election, as the Yarra Ranges joins calls for upgraded services to meet demand.

The Eastern Transport Coalition (ETC) launched its election platform on Thursday 21 May, identifying several priorities for its six member councils: Manningham, Maroondah, Knox, Monash, Greater Danendong and Yarra Ranges.

Advocacy priorities were designed around four pillars of livability, connectivity, sustainability, and productivity and efficiency to meet the region’s estimated population of over 1.2 million by 2031.

ETC chair and Yarra Ranges Melba ward councillor Mitch Mazzarella said the platform launch was positive, but one clear directive stood out.

“The message that was heard loud and clear was the need for bus reform across not just Yarra Ranges, but across the ETC member councils. That was probably one of the main things to come out of those panel discussions,” he said.

In March, Yarra Ranges Council stated that the local government area had some of the highest car dependency rates in metropolitan Melbourne, with more than 90 per cent of residents commuting to work by car, compared to 68 per cent in Greater Melbourne.

The objectives call for bus route feasibility studies, bus service reviews and more frequent buses to and from major locations like Stud Park.

ETC has prioritised a 12-month pilot program to trial a Mount Dandenong bus route for Belgrave, Tecoma, Upwey, and Belgrave South communities.

This was the only bus route improvement advocated for despite the Yarra Ranges Council’s individual advocacy for better bus services, particularly in the Dandenongs and the Upper Yarra.

Cr Mazzarella said this did not mean it had been left off the agenda entirely, but rather ETC’s platform calls for a holistic approach to improving bus services and infrastructure.

“The council will continue to advocate for in-

creased frequency and span of hours on our key bus routes across the shire, not just in the Dandenongs or the Upper Yarra, whether it be the review of some of the more underutilised bus services, whether it be flexi ride, whether it be better connections at train stations,” he said.

“These are all things the council will continue to advocate for, and certainly bus services as a whole will be part of ETC’s advocacy package, and between the five member councils, there’s plenty of work to do.”

As the councillor for Melba ward, Cr Mazzarella said even in his area, concerns about bus services were high on the agenda, with no Mooroolbark to Chirnside Park service on Sundays.

Changes mean residents are required to travel by train to Lilydale or Croydon and then catch the 670 bus to Chirnside.

“The fact we don’t have Sunday buses in Mooroolbark is certainly one of the things I’ve been hearing,” he said.

Two major projects, the Lilydale line duplication and Lilydale bypass, return to both ETC’s and the council’s advocacy agenda, “hopeful we

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At the session, Elder Rights Australia will help you:

• Understand family violence, financial abuse and the misuse of powers of attorney.

•Recognise signs of elder abuse and how to help.

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• Speak up with confidence and know where to get support.

Tuesday 16 June, 10.30am - 12.30pm Deep Creek Reserve Centre, 62 Cameron Way, Pakenham. FREE (light lunch included) but bookings are essential. Call 1300 787 624, email ageingwell@cardinia.vic.gov.au

This event supports World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, recognised globally on 15 June each year.

might get some election commitment”.

ETC’s advocacy objectives seek $80 million for the Lilydale railway line duplication between Mooroolbark and Lilydale and the construction of a new station at Cave Hill (Kinley).

These projects were cited as “urgently required to enable more services to operate and improve performance on the overall network. This would reduce bottlenecks and provide for an increase in users with 3000 new dwellings to be developed in the 800m catchment area”.

A feasibility study for the Lilydale bypass was also requested as a way to “divert traffic from Main Street, transforming it into a safer, quieter, high-quality ‘green’ environment, with more transport options”.

Cr Mazzarella said both had been “an advocacy priority for a long time”, but the Kinley development brought about “an increased focus on the area and…that sense of urgency for the projects”.

An area the Yarra Ranges did feature heavily in was funding advocacy for trail and pathway projects, including the Yarra Valley Trail (Stage 2B & Stage 3), Ferny Creek Trail (Stages 1 & 2) Exten-

sion, Heathmont to Belgrave Rail Trail (Upwey to Belgrave), and ngurrak barring | RidgeWalk.

Cr Mazzarella said trail connections fall into the category of active transport, the final link in public transport, but also meet tourism and healthy and connected communities agendas.

“ETC shares that sentiment around active community-focused transport. It’s another way to get cars off the road.”

Each of ETC’s listed projects stems from polling, research and Infrastructure Victoria’s 30-year modelling.

“We’ve found that these are the main projects across the member councils, which will assist in creating a better day-to-day experience for people, and hopefully promote more public transport users.”

Cr Mazzarella said ETC and each member council welcome the opportunity to engage with MPs and candidates before the election.

To read the full election platform, visit: etc. org.au

Free mental health service opens for Cardinia region

A free mental health support service opened in Pakenham and Cockatoo, making it easier for locals in Melbourne’s south east to access free mental health care.

Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt opened the Cardinia Mental Health and Wellbeing Local, located in Pakenham and Cockatoo, on Wednesday 27 May.

Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino said, “it was fantastic to see these new spaces now open – our community can access incredible support and care here.”

“A site in Cockatoo means that our community in the Hills can get the free support they need, closer to home,” she said.

Now delivering tailored support in-person at the two locations and via telehealth, the free service is part of a statewide network of 22 Locals providing care to adults experiencing mental illness or psychological distress across 24 locations throughout Victoria.

Residents will not need a medicare card or GP referral, and services are completely free, with the sites acting as a ‘front door’ to the mental health system.

The network of Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals has already helped more than 41,000 Victorians, and care is delivered by a team of experienced mental health professionals, wellbeing staff and peer support workers.

The network is a part of an initiative by the State Government in response to the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, tabled in March 2021.

Ms Stitt said that more than 41,000 Victorians have already accessed the free support.

“We’ve delivered Locals just like this one right across Victoria – so more people can access the care they need,” she said.

The new services at the Cardinia Mental Health and Wellbeing Local will be delivered by Mind Australia in partnership with

The new services opened in Cockatoo and Packenham. (Unsplash).

Monash Health. The service operates from Eastern Dandenong Ranges Association at 7-17 McBride Street, Cockatoo and16 Station Street, Pakenham. Appointments are available at the Cockatoo Site on Monday and Wednesday 9am to 5pm and the Pakenham site from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. More information and contact details are available at betterhealth.vic.gov.au/ mental-health-wellbeing-locals.

Improved public transport will be a key agenda item for the Yarra Ranges as part of the Eastern Transport Coalition’s election platform. (Stewart Chambers: 322249)

Belgrave Toy Library finds home with more room and toys

By Tanya Steele

With room for more fun and play, a vital local service for families will open doors at a new location in Upwey from the first week of June.

Celebrating after months of work, the volunteers from the Belgrave and Surrounds Toy Library have moved to the Sherbrooke Family and Children’s Centre in Upwey.

Belgrave and Surrounds Toy Library Committee President Georgina Clarke said the committee and volunteers are incredibly excited to welcome families into the new space this June.

“Members can look forward to an even bigger toy collection in a more intentional and streamlined environment,” she said.

Prompted by their lease ending at the Len Jeffrey Memorial Kinder in Belgrave South, Ms Clake said that the group then had to look for a new home location.

“While it felt daunting at first, it quickly became a really positive opportunity, not only for our toy library, but also for the former Upwey Toy Library, which had sadly closed a couple of years ago due to a lack of volunteers,” she said.

Timing-wise, the Belgrave group were able to take on the Upwey Toy Library’s lease and also incorporate their toy collection into the

Belgrave one.

“This has allowed the legacy of both the Belgrave South Toy Library and the Upwey Toy Library to live on under our new name: the Belgrave and Surrounds Toy Library,” said Ms Clarke.

Toy libraries provide educational toys that

kids can borrow and take home for a subscription fee, and give kids and parents a chance to connect, learn and save money on toys.

Local parent, Georgia, is a toy library member and said she appreciates the library for both its accessibility and its kind and caring community.

“To be able to keep kids entertained with rotating toys for an affordable price and be environmentally friendly is such a valuable thing,” she said.

“Every stage of our children’s lives has been supported by a variety of learning that we wouldn’t be able to provide if not for the toy library.”

Since November last year, the committee and volunteers have worked hard to tick all the boxes and get everything in place for the move, and are excited to see local families enjoying the space together.

“It’s certainly been a labour of love, and seeing it all come together has made the hard work feel incredibly worthwhile and rewarding,” said Ms Clarke.

The new space will run alongside kinder, childcare, maternal and child health appointments and community programs, and Ms Clarke said the move makes the library much

more accessible for local families.

“We’re passionate about providing affordable and sustainable access to toys for Hills families, and this move means we’ll be able to reach and support even more people in our community,” she said.

The group also have future plans for exploration in running Stay and Play sessions and other community events.

Georgia is excited about the move as it will have more open space for play.

“I think it will also allow for a wider range of the community to join, as it’s closer to the bottom of the mountain.

“We’re so proud to carry forward the rich history of both the Belgrave South and Upwey toy libraries into this next chapter,” said Ms Clarke.

“Our goal is to continue growing a welcoming, sustainable and community-focused space for local families for many years to come,” she said.

With current sessions on Tuesdays 1-2pm, Thursdays 9-10am and Sundays 3:30-4:30pm, Ms Clarke said they can’t wait to welcome both familiar and new faces through the doors.

“We encourage interested community members to follow us on socials to stay up to date,” she said.

Selby House will survive

After nearly half a year of uncertainty following their sudden closure, Yarra Ranges Council has formally confirmed it will undertake major repairs and improvements to the much-loved Selby Community House building.

The future of Selby Community House has been green lit as local council has fronted up to repair the site after massive termite damage was discovered at the community house late last year.

Selby Community House shared the welcome news on 29 May via social media, and Yarra Ranges Council has said it expects operations to progressively return to the building from spring.

Community House Manager, Danielle McMinn, said the news had brought relief and hope to the community.

“Council has reaffirmed their commitment to the future of Selby Community House,” she said.

“They understand how important this place is to the township and the wider hills community, and they’re just as excited as we are to see it open, better than ever.”

Along with its myriad of community programs and services, the childcare arm of the community house went through major displacement when the house shut down, with real emotional and financial toll placed on the service.

“Our childcare service was displaced for all of term one, staff were stood down without pay, programs had to be relocated across multiple venues, and families were left dealing with enormous uncertainty,” said Ms McMinn.

Since the closure, Selby Community House has relocated its childcare service to Menzies Creek Primary School and shifted community programs and workshops to Monbulk Hub and Menzies Creek Hall to ensure services could con-

tinue operating wherever possible.

The house classes and workshops have continued, but with a lot of extra work put in by the house staff and its volunteers to make it possible.

The community house already faces the regular struggles created by higher operating costs and a lack of state funding to the sector.

Last year In October, Selby House joined many other houses across Victoria in the Neighbourhood House Campaign asking for higher financial support. Led by Neighbourhood Houses Victoria (NHVic) by May 2026, the State Government had declined to restore funding in real terms to the sector.

Acknowledging the disruption here in the Yarra Ranges, Lyster ward Councillor Peter Mcilwain said the council appreciate that it’s been a disruptive time for the house and for residents accessing their services.

“I’d like to extend a sincere thank you on behalf of the council for everyone’s patience, understanding and flexibility while we worked through this process,” he said.

Yarra Ranges Council said it plans to make essential repairs and also take the chance to make other general improvements to the building.

“In addition to repairing the termite damage, we’ll install new flooring and split-system heating and cooling units, address some of the temporary fixes that have been made to the building over the years and, generally, freshen up the building,” Cr Mcilwain.

“We expect to have the works completed later this year, with services gradually returning to the building from spring, and everyone back and settled into their new home for the new year.”

Cr Mcilwain said the council was committed to the future of the community house.

“We know how much the Selby Community House means to the community,” he said. “It’s adored locally and has long been a place where so many have come to learn skills, make connections in their community and receive support.”

Ms McMinn said that it’s incredibly exciting to know the House won’t just be repaired, but also refreshed and improved for the future.

“While there is still a lot to work through, we are hopeful of having everyone back together again in our beautiful building by the beginning of next year,” she said.

For more information about Selby Community House’s current classes and offerings, visit www.selbyhouse.org.au

Belgrave and Surrounds Toy Library Committee Members Clio, Georgina and Jacqui with kids Amos, Livia, Jarrah and Ned. (Supplied).

By Tanya Steele

Gates are up and works appear to have already begun to restore the house. (Supplied).

Umpire ‘OK’ after Coldstream collapse

By Callum Ludwig

A frightening medical incident at the Eastern Football Netball League (EFNL) clash between Coldstream and Silvan saw play abandoned on Saturday 23 May.

During the third quarter of the match, field umpire John Bonfadini collapsed on the field, requiring emergency assistance from nurses in the crowd and a transfer to hospital.

The Coldstream Football Netball Club issued

a statement on their Facebook page after the incident and said they are very relieved and grateful to share that the umpire is okay and receiving the care and support he needs.

“We would like to sincerely acknowledge Georgia and Rachel Ploegsma for their immediate response and assistance during the incident. Their calm actions and care in a highly stressful situation were incredibly appreciated,” it reads.

“We also want to thank everyone who assisted in any way throughout the incident, including

Izzy Cunningham, trainers from both clubs, officials, players, volunteers and spectators, whose support and cooperation helped ensure the best possible outcome.

“Saturday was confronting for many people who witnessed the incident. As a club, we understand the impact situations like this can have, and we will be organising a debrief and access to professional support services for anyone who may need it in the coming days.”

The Silvan Football Netball Club have also is-

sued statements, updating their supporters and club members about Mr Bonfadini’s condition in the following days and organising a debrief for those who witnessed the incident.

is a life member of the

Club.

On the evening, a statement from Mr Bonfadini’s brother was released to share that the umpire was stable and talking, though didn’t have memory of the incident.

The committee released another statement on Monday 25 May, which said Mr Bonfadini was being transferred from Box Hill Hospital and will be having bypass surgery.

“John is very thankful for those who provided hands-on assistance, in particular the nurses on hand and medical staff from both clubs on the day. He is also most thankful for the first responders who attended to him on Saturday,” it reads.

“The Club would again like to thank everyone for the care they’ve shown the past few days in reaching out to John and his family. To all the players, coaches, trainers and support staff from both Clubs, we couldn’t be more proud and thankful for how you all navigated a path through a distressing time.

“We also extend our thanks to the other officiating umpires who showed a level of professionalism and care not expected of them in such difficult circumstances.”

Incidents like these are profoundly felt at Silvan after player Vincent ‘Vinny’ Bonanno died due to a cardiac arrest while at the club on 6 March 2011.

The Star Mail reported that despite witnesses starting CPR immediately, an ambulance being called, and exit and entry points being cleared, Bonanno could not be revived.

Following his death, medical services companies Schiller and Staying Alive donated a $3500 portable defibrillator to the club.

The Slivan statement also said that they are thankful the updates on John have been positive but understand the scenes from Saturday can affect people in different ways.

“Let’s band together as a club, like we always do and show our support for one another. The Club will provide some food from 7pm onwards and we will have further updates to John’s progress. We hope to see everyone there,” it reads.

“Whilst it remains very low on the list of importance, the result of Saturday’s Senior match will be determined by the EFNL administration.

“Our Club is focused on John’s recovery and the wellbeing of everyone affected on the day.”

The match was abandoned with the score at Coldstream 6.4, 40 to Silvan 7.7, 49.

EFL Umpires Association (EFLUA) president David Parker said in a statement that the association is extremely relieved that Mr Bonfadini is okay.

“On behalf of the EFLUA, I would like to sincerely thank both the Coldstream Football Netball and Silvan Football Netball Club for their immediate response and support provided to John at the ground,” he said.

“In particular, I want to acknowledge and thank the nurses who quickly came to John’s aid and remained with him until paramedics arrived.

“Their care and professionalism were greatly appreciated.”

Mr Bonfadini was active in the comments of the Facebook posts from both clubs, thanking everyone involved and declaring that he was ‘feeling ok’ even though he didn’t remember what had happened. The Star Mail attempted to contact Mr Bonfadini for comment.

Mr Parker said that should any EFLUA member of EFNL umpire require support following the incident, do not hesitate to contact him, and the EFLUA will be happy to assist.

“I would also like to thank the Coldstream committee and members for the support shown to the remainder of the umpiring panel during what was a very difficult situation,” he said.

“Their care and consideration ensured our umpires felt supported and valued throughout the afternoon.”

Mr Bonfadini

Silvan Football Netball

A field umpire is recovering after collapsing during the football match between Coldstream and Silvan on Saturday 23 May. (File)

Aunty Dot is immortalised

A new sculpture was unveiled in Boronia on Saturday 30 May, honouring Aunty Dorothy “Dot” Peters AM as part of the State Government’s $1.2 million Victorian Women’s Public Art Program.

Aunty Dot was a Yarra Yarra and Yorta Yorta woman who was born in Melbourne in 1930.

“Aunty Dot was a highly active and influential leader in the First Nations community in Melbourne’s east, working to build understanding and respect between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the wider community,” Knox City Council Mayor Paige Kennett said.

Her father, Vincent Peters, fought in the Second World War and was captured and held prisoner. He died in 1943 on the Thai-Burma Railway.

Mr Peters’ service went unacknowledged, and his family were not given the same reimbursement as other families. This wrongdoing is what incited Aunty Dot’s passion for advocating for First Nations’ rights.

Aunty Dot was a significant figure in having First Nations’ peoples’ inputs to the Australian Armed Forces formally accredited. She played a major role in creating the Victorian Aboriginal Remembrance Service at the Shrine of Remembrance, which celebrated its 20th anniversary on Sunday 31 May.

In 2019, Aunty Dot was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her substantial contributions to the Victorian First Nations’ community.

The sculpture, Binak Ngarrgu (Basket of Knowledge), was designed by First Nations’ artist Simone Thomson, a Wurundjeri, Yorta Yorta and Wiradjuri woman with Weston Rumbold Art Projects.

“It is a deep personal honour to celebrate Aunty Dot’s life through this work, ‘Binak Ngarrgu, Basket of Knowledge,” Ms Thomson said.

The artwork was designed as a sculptural gathering place. It is intended to be a space for reflection, learning and connection, and embodies the stories of Country, culture and knowledge-sharing that characterised Aunty Dot’s life and leadership.

At the heart of the artwork is a gathering circle engrained with flowing lines representing two rivers, Birrarung (Yarra River) and Dhungala

(Murray River), reflecting Aunty Dot’s two Clans and her deep relationship to Country.

“This artwork is a powerful tribute to Aunty Dot’s enduring legacy of advocacy, education and reconciliation,” Lisa Byrne, the McClelland Sculpture Park and Gallery artistic and executive

director, said.

The sculpture is of a basket, which represents a meeting place. Aunty Dot was taught basket weaving by her grandmother, who wished for the skill to be passed down.

“I hope that through her work people feel

a

of

Find out more and

sense

motivation, pride and connection,” said her son, Dr Andrew Peters, who spoke at the launch on Saturday.

see the artwork just off Scoresby Road, opposite Manuka Drive in Boronia, by following the Blind Creek Trail.

The sculpture sits in the middle of a gathering place, surrounded by nature.A plaque tells Aunty Dot’s story.

To honour Aunty Dot’s love of basket and eel trap weaving, attendees tried their hand at the art.

First Nations artist Simone Thomson designed the artwork.

The artwork titled Binak Ngarrgu (Basket of Knowledge) was unveiled on Saturday 30 May. (Supplied)

Aunty Dot Peters’ son Andrew Peters spoke at the ceremony.

‘All in’ performance, discussion

Acclaimed Indigenous hip-hop sensation Baker Boy rocked the stage of The Memo in Healesville on Thursday 28 May, wrapping up a massive cultural program to celebrate National Reconciliation Week.

The Yarra Ranges’ event saw performances from Kiernan Ironfield and Baker Boy, and an indepth panel discussion facilitated by Aunty Lea Jones, surrounding Treaty and Truth-telling, all under the MC prowess of Sean Choolburra.

The 2026 event highlighted the national theme “All In,” a call to action for every Australian to move beyond the sidelines and take active steps toward unity.

“This year’s theme for National Reconciliation Week asks us all to commit to reconciliation every single day,” Yarra Ranges Mayor Richard Higgins said.

“It recognises that reconciliation won’t happen if we’re standing on the sidelines, and there are things we can all do in our daily lives to advance the cause.”

The sold-out event brought together three essential elements: community, culture and conversation.

Cr Higgins emphasised that the event was more than a celebration; it was an invitation to listen to lived experiences and challenge outdated perspectives, not only during Reconciliation Week but always.

“This could include challenging outdated attitudes, consuming media made by First Nations People, reading about and listening to the lived experiences of others,” Cr Higgins said.

“If we’re ‘All In,’ we can start to make positive change.”

Baker Boy had the crowd up and about. (556198)

Aunty Lea Jones facilitated the panel discussion. (556198)

Baker Boy reaching out to students from Worawa College. (556198)

The panel, Aunty Lea Jones, Corinne, Kiernan and Nelson discussed Treaty and Truth-telling. (556198)

Gail Crozier (Oonah Health and Community Services Aboriginal Corporation), Sean Choolburra (MC and performer) and Aunty Lea Jones (Facilitator) prepare to go on stage. (556198)

Worawa Aboriginal College students loving every second of Baker Boy’s set. (556198)

Panellists Corinne and Kiernan. (556198)

Baker Boy with Worawa Aboriginal College students. (556198)

Performer and panellist Kiernan Ironfield. (556198)

Baker Boy was all smiles taking to The Memo stage. (556198)

Stacie Piper led the Welcome to Country with Michael Parisi and Sam Piper. (556198)

The panel discussion between Aunty Lea Jones (Facilitator), Corinne, Kiernan and Nelson. (556198)

Baker Boy headlined Yarra Ranges Council’s National Reconciliation Week event at The Memo. (Stewart Chambers: 556198)

MC and performer Sean Choolburra warming up the crowd for Baker Boy. (556198)

Yarra Ranges mayor Richard Higgins (centre), chief executive officer Tammi Rose, and councillors Jeff Marriott (top centre) and Jim Child (top right) enjoying the performance. (556198)

Shape your career.

As an early childhood teacher or educator, you can shape lives while building a lasting career and sharing your expertise. Roles are available now, with access to professional development and upskilling support.

Hills Big Freeze a success

By Gabriella Weir and Mikayla van Loon

The third Hills MND Big Freeze took place on Sunday 31 May at Paradise Valley Hotel and was described by the organisers as a “hugely successful day”.

The event was held to raise funds for FightMND, which funds research into treatments for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and improves the care for people living with the disease.

The day began with a 1.7km walk from Puffing Billy Park to Paradise Valley Hotel, a new addition to the event, shifting the focus to raising awareness about MND, with signage lining the track highlighting statistics and the achievements of FightMND.

Last year, the Hills event constructed an icy water slide, but to simplify the setup, event organisers Sarah and Matt Stickland said instead the event returned to MND’s roots of an ice-bucket challenge.

Ten challengers volunteered to have an icy bucket poured over their heads, ranging from football club committee members to RSL presidents and community leaders.

Ms Stickland was the last challenger in the lineup this year and said it was rather cold.

“It was absolutely freezing, and they decided to put extra ice in my bucket and pour it really slowly, so it just went right through it to the centre of my core,” she said with a laugh.

Olivia McLeod, a nurse of 17 years and a mother of three, was also one of 10 challengers in the Hills MND’s third Big Freeze.

“I am a nurse who works in the industry of disability,soI’vedealtwithlotsofpatientsovertheyears who have had Motor Neurone Disease,” she said.

“It’s a cause I’m very passionate about. I think it’s one of the worst diseases I’ve ever nursed.”

As well as being a nurse, Ms McLeod is also the vice president of the Emerald Junior Football Club and held a Big Freeze for MND with her club three years ago, which raised close to $15,000.

“We have a big platform at the football club where we can show the children good things for the future, and what we can do to help. So, we’re just very willing to use that platform to educate for a better future,” she said.

“I had an uncle who passed away with Motor Neurone Disease, probably about 30 years ago, and that’s when it raised awareness in me.”

Hills MND had a goal of raising $35,000, and while the full tally hadn’t been counted as of Monday morning, Mr Stickland said he estimated a total of $60,000.

“The entire Hills community has really gotten behind us,” Mr Stickland said.

“It’s really quite humbling for us. Since we started doing it three years ago, we’ve tried to make it a community event and to see that the community is just so behind us is what we hoped to set out to achieve.

“We feel like we’re giving back to FightMND, who have been amazing, and the content of Neale Daniher of paying it forward for future sufferers of MND, we feel like giving back a little bit for what he started.”

Ms Stickland said a big thanks had to go to the at least 400 people who attended the event, who donated online or bought a raffle ticket.

“Thank you to everybody just for getting behind us and supporting us in your third year in a row. We’ve just had so many people support it, which is just brilliant,” she said.

The event this year was attended by FightMND chair Mike Schneider, Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino and Pakenham MP Emma Vulin. Motor Neurone Disease (MND) damages motor neurones, which are needed to deliver messages down the spinal cord from the brain. This weakens muscles and makes them unable to perform tasks such as walking, talking or breathing.

In Australia, around two people are diagnosed

ing with the disease.

MND is terminal, and the survival time is usually two to three years after diagnosis, although some slower-progressing variants can give patients

from 10 to 20 years to live. The longest time a person lived with the disease was Stephen Hawking, who lived with MND for 55 years.

The crowd gathered prior to the main event, the Ice Bucket Challenge. (556165)

Kids give a thumbs up for the FightMND cause. (556165)

The Hills beanie brigade. The walk was a new addition to the event this year, something everyone seemed to enjoy immensely. (556165)

Matt Stickland embraces fellow MND fighter Emma Vulin. (556165)

Tayla and Michaela from Apricity Coffee in their Coffee van with a display of all the MND Beanies over the years. (556165)

A group of walkers donning their FightMND beanies. (556165)

The main group of people nearing The Paradise Valley Hotel after leaving Emerald. (556165)

The Stickland family. L-R Sarah Stickland, Pam Sanders (Matt’s Mum), Matt Stickland, Gemma Stickland and Eva Stickland celebrate the 2026 Hills MND Big Freeze. (Gary Sissons: 556165)

L-R Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino, Matt Broderick (Emma’s partner) and Pakenham MP Emma Vulin joined in the fun. (556165)

L-R Ian Johnson, Sally Johnson, David Johnson (Coach of Emerald Football Team) and Georgie Johnson (front). (556165)

Businesses combine to help the homeless

By Callum Ludwig

Local businesses in the Yarra Ranges, in collaboration with Anchor Community Care and Yarra Ranges Council, are opening up their doors and offerings to people experiencing homelessness in the community.

The program will help some of the most vulnerable people in the region to access free or discounted services, designed to help

Anchor chief executive Heidi Tucker said the project is all about helping people who are really struggling to feel a sense of comfort and normality.

“Homelessness causes people to feel a lot of stigma and shame and isolation, and we want to ensure they can do the things that most people take for granted like having a cup of coffee, a haircut etc,” she said.

“This allows people to still be active members of our community which is one of the most important factors in a person’s ability to leave homelessness behind.”

“A coffee or haircut seems like a simple thing, but it actually makes a huge difference in the long run.”

Local cafes have jumped on board to provide free coffee and food, as well as businesses offering hairdressing and barbering, dry cleaning, and financial advice services. A number of social groups have also joined forces with the project, providing people experiencing homelessness with an opportunity to feel connected and involved with other local residents.

The Community Bank of Ferntree Gully is one business to have become involved, offering to help people open an account with them, where welfare payments or wages can be deposited as well as budgeting advice once an income stream has been established.

Customer relationship manager Jin Ratnatunga said he was more than happy to help as at the end of the day, it’s helping mankind at the other end.

“If anyone walks through the door into the branch, I’m happy to help them within my within my limits as banking is a very highly regulated industry,” he said.

“We can have a quick chat to educate themon how to manage their money as a starting point and then maybe open up another account to start saving at least a little bit of money at a time so at the end of the day they will have been able to svae money to get up onto their feet.

“As a human being to human being mate, there are no animals that can help us, but only

human beings can help another human being.”

Other service providers include Nangle Group (financial services), Smoothline Dry Cleaners, Snips of London, Bunnings Lilydale and Wandin Florist.

Brett and Lilydale Food Factory are one of three cafes to have jumped on board, alongside Round Bird Food and Wine Merchants and Your Local Roaster in Lilydale.

The Yarra Valley Singers community choir have opened up their arms as a community organisation open to new members while Belgravia Leisure has made its shower facilities available.

The project has been given the name ‘Kirrip’ (pronounced kih-rip) which means friend

556639_01).

Chasing lights and good nights

By Tanya Steele

As the beloved Belgrave Lantern Parade approaches, the evening of 5 June will see local traders in Belgrave band together once more to raise money for the longest night.

Business owners and volunteers across Belgrave will be running a community fundraising event to bolster much-needed funds to run the 2026 Lantern parade and hearts are already a-glow as donations for the big night have begun rolling in.

Local chef and business owner Alex Palmer will be firing up the pizza ovens and said the fundraising event stems from a lot of love and pride in the Lantern Parade.

“All the businesses in Belgrave are basically coming together because it’s a massive event for our community,“ he said.

With less support from local government funding available in recent years, Mr Palmer said the traders have had to take on fundraising, and they ran a similar event last year.

“We love our community, so we always take it upon ourselves to try to raise money and put on these great events, just so a lantern parade can be as great as it always was“, he said.

The lantern parade is an annual celebration which sees locals and people from much further afield cross Melbourne flock to Belgrave to ward off winter and celebrate the Winter Solstice.

Thousands gather to parade through the streets with lanterns to drive away the darkness and estimates have reported upwards of more than 10,000 people attending in recent years.

Organisers have faced issues with the rising costs of insurance and traffic control for the popular community celebration.

With donations flying in for the fundraiser from businesses all over the hills area, Mr Palmer said the response locally so far has been amazing.

Belgrave Scout Hall will host the fundraiser, and Mr Palmer said there will be food, drink, music and silent auctions on the day.

“We welcome everyone, it’s pay by donationcash or card“, he said.

Mr Palmer said even if the wallet feels a bit tight, any community are welcome to come and enjoy the music, atmosphere and have a meal.

“Come to the event and have us feed you,“ he said.

Running from 5pm on Friday 5 June at the Belgrave Scout hall at 28 Station Street, Belgrave South, community are welcome come along have a bite to eat and donate for a cause.

or mate in the Woi wurrung language of the Wurundjeri people and the Boon Wurrung language, both part of the Eastern Kulin Nation in Victoria. It is used to signify friendship, community, and connection to country.

Ms Tucker said the businesses that have signed up deserve a lot of recognition for their generosity.

“This is what addressing homelessness is all about – partnering together to ensure care and compassion for everyone in our community,” she said.

Other Yarra Ranges businesses wishing to sign up to the program are encouraged to reach out to Gabby Golds at Yarra Ranges Council: g. golds@yarraranges.vic.gov.au.

Brett from Lilydale Food Factory is one of a number of businesses to join the Kirrip program. (Stewart Chambers: 556163)

Ferntree Gully Bendigo Bank’s Jin Ratnatunga. (Supplied)

The lantern parade has grown immensely popular with high attendance in recent years. (Tanya Steele:

Belgrave business owners and volunteers have banded together once more to raise funds for the event, including local family and cafe owners Alex and Shannon Palmer with their young child Hendrix). (Stewart Chambers: 478225_02).

Retirement living with real heart

Where the Yarra Valley meets the Dandenong Ranges, Lilydale Valley Views offers more than a place to live, it’s a vibrant community where retirement is enjoyed to the fullest.

For over 15 years, the village has grown into a welcoming environment where residents feel at home. With 139 residences, including semi attached two and three bedroom units and cosy terraces, there is a style to suit every preference.

Whether it’s sweeping valley views or the ease of low maintenance living, each home is designed for comfort and connection.

Lifestyle is at the heart of Lilydale Valley Views. A heated indoor pool and spa provide year round relaxation, while Tai Chi, dancercise, and other group activities keep minds and bodies active. The village bus makes shopping stress free with convenient door to door service.

A strong sense of community sets the village apart.

The resident social committee organises a calendar filled with outings, celebrations, and casual get togethers, ensuring there are always opportunities to connect. Friendships form quickly and newcomers are warmly welcomed, making it easy to feel part of the community from day one.

The location adds to the appeal. Doctors, supermarkets, and the train station are all within walking distance, while the nearby Warburton Trail offers scenic walks and bike rides. On site, a thriving veggie and flower garden brings people together in the simple pleasure of growing and sharing.

It is this blend of convenience, activity, and companionship that makes Lilydale Valley Views such a special place. Here, retirement is not about slowing down, but about enjoying life surrounded by people who value the same.

We invite you to experience it for yourself. Discover the comfort of terrace living, the beauty of the views, and the warmth of a truly connected community. For more information, visit us at 471 Maroondah Highway, Lilydale, email manager@ lilydalevalleyviews.com.au, or call 03 9735 5944 to speak with our manager, Rosemary Seymour. Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm.

A better retirement lifestyle

Be part of a vibrant Community and enjoy the Facilities

Close to all amenities - health professionals, Supermarkets, public transport

Village volunteers can assists you around the house

Village bus for shopping excursions

Monthly calendar of events

24 Hour Emergency Assistance

Fully equipped gym

Heated indoor pool

9735 5944

Hairdresser, Massage & Podiatry services

4-rink Bowling Green

Entertainment Lounge

Library and Computer Room

Come see if Lilydale Valley Views is the place for you or your loved ones. (Supplied)

Lilydale Valley Views has built a strong sense of community over 15 years. (Supplied)

SENIOR LIVING

An art and craft showcase

Residents of Tudor Village opened the doors to a world of creativity and craftsmanship at a vibrant Arts and Craft Showcase, where talent, imagination and community spirit were proudly on display.

Visitors were treated to an impressive collection of handmade treasures created by the village’s resident artists and craftspeople. From finely crafted woodworking and delicate jewellery to intricate decorated eggs and stunning artworks, the showcase highlighted the remarkable skills flourishing within the Tudor Village community.

A major attraction was the work produced in the Tudor Village Men’s Shed, where residents have been transforming timber into beautifully crafted pieces. Display items included bowls, jewellery boxes, trinket trays, clocks, candle holders and chip-and-dip platters, alongside practical creations such as bird boxes and dog houses for furry and feathered companions. For the grandchildren, there was a range of charming wooden toys, snowmen and carved animals.

Among the standout exhibitors was Ron McKay, whose expertly wood-turned bowls, platters and lidded containers drew admiration from guests. Many of his pieces were crafted entirely from a single piece of wood, showcasing both patience and precision. Equally captivating were the woodworks of Paddy King, Bruce Prowse and Victor Oberg, each showing a distinctive style and exceptional artistry in their beautifully carved bowls, elegant sculptures, candlestick holders and intricate inlaid wooden boxes.

The showcase also highlighted the generosity and community involvement of residents. Roselynne Waghorn and Jean Smith displayed their colourful crochet butterflies, lovingly created to decorate the trees at the Mooroolbark

Community Gardens. During school excursions, children visiting the gardens are invited to take home seeds, gardening gloves and a butterfly of their choice.

Adding a touch of enchantment to the event were the intricate creations of Ruth Sargeant. Her delicately decorated eggs housed tiny princesses, princes, fairies, mermaids and other ethereal figures, captivating visitors with their detail and imagination. Ruth also exhibited a collection of elegant hand-painted plates.

The Tudor Village Art Group showcased an impressive range of artworks across a variety of mediums including watercolours, oils, pastels and embroidery. Landscapes, portraits, native flora and wildlife ensured there was something to appeal to every artistic taste.

Jewellery makers Graeme and Christine Hall also attracted strong interest with their handcrafted necklaces and earrings featuring resin and polymer clay inlays. With no two pieces alike, each item carried its own distinctive character. The couple additionally displayed decorative floral holders created using plaster of Paris, air- dried clay and resin techniques.

Guests rounded out the afternoon enjoying a delicious spread of freshly baked scones with cream and club sandwiches prepared by the Tudor Village Social Club.

Donations were warmly welcomed throughout the event, with proceeds supporting the Village’s Cancer Council fundraiser this month.

Bridget Vallence, MP for Evelyn, was a special guest who popped in to chat with residents and admire the range of talent on display.

The showcase was not only a celebration of creativity, but also a reminder of the rich talent, generosity and community spirit that make Tudor Village such a special place to call home.

L-R: Tudor Village residents Nancy Donovan, Joan O’Reilly and Roselynne Waghorn with Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence. (Supplied)

Admiring the Art and Craft Showcase at Tudor Village. (Supplied)

Give Mum & Dad the Retirement They Deserve

Surrounded by bushland, close to wineries and the warm village feel of Lilydale, this is where retirement comes into its own. Whether it’s morning walks among the trees or shared afternoons with friends, every moment here feels purposeful and unhurried. And it’s more than just a feeling, studies show that living in a retirement village can help you live a longer, healthier, happier life. With homes available now, you can secure your new lifestyle today!

Spacious and Beautifully Appointed

247 GROSVENOR WALK, LILYDALE

Spacious and beautifully appointed, this home offers two generous bedrooms, a separate study, and flexible living across a formal lounge, dining, and light-filled meals area. The master suite features walk-through robes and a stone ensuite with oversized shower. A powder room, large laundry with ample storage, and single garage with workshop potential round out the practical extras. Ducted heating and cooling ensure yearround comfort, while the covered pergola and private courtyard provide a perfect outdoor retreat.

Perfectly Designed for Relaxed Living

253 GROSVENOR WALK, LILYDALE

Relaxed, low-maintenance living meets genuine practicality in this spacious residence. Two well-sized bedrooms and a dedicated study offer flexibility, while multiple living zones — formal lounge, dining, and everyday meals space — provide room to entertain or unwind. The master features walk-through robes and a stone ensuite with walk-in shower. A powder room, oversized laundry, and single garage with workshop potential complete the package. Ducted heating and cooling throughout, plus a pergola overlooking a private courtyard and established gardens.

Contact Kate Abdulovski on (03) 9739 6122 to enquire about pricing or schedule a private viewing. Visit tudorvillage.com.au for more information.

With

a heart that keeps pouring into others, Noelene ‘Non’ Blair’s impact speaks louder than words. That lifelong commitment was recognised once again with Cardinia Shire’s highest volunteer honour. Star News journalist AFRAA KORI reports.

Honour where it is due

A quiet and humble force behind life in the Hills, Noelene (Non) Blair has never sought the spotlight, but it keeps finding her.

Non is already an Emerald Citizen of the Year recipient and has received several council and state government volunteer awards over the years.

On Thursday 21 May, she added another major honour to the list when she was named the 2026 Stan Henwood Award recipient at Cardinia Shire Council’s annual volunteer celebration.

The Stan Henwood Award celebrates outstanding community contribution and honours the legacy of Stan Henwood OAM, whose dedication and service to Cardinia Shire has left a lasting impact across the shire.

Having attended the annual volunteer celebration for years, Non never imagined she would one day be standing on stage as the recipient.

“I was actually overseas when I found out I’d been nominated,” she said.

“Someone asked if I’d written an acceptance speech and I said, ‘Oh no, I won’t win.’ I genuinely wasn’t expecting it.

“I felt a little bit embarrassed on the awards night. It’s a great honour, but there are so many amazing volunteers who could have won the award.”

Cardinia Shire Mayor, Councillor Brett Owen, congratulated Non and acknowledged the vital role of volunteers across the shire.

“Non’s ability to inspire others and her deep commitment to celebrating local culture have helped shape the region’s identity, making her a deserving recipient of the 2026 Stan Henwood Award,” he said.

“We are delighted to celebrate the invaluable contributions of our dedicated volunteers. Your commitment and passion for serving others is truly inspiring, and we thank you for your outstanding efforts.

“Volunteers are the quiet achievers of our community, and so much of what makes Cardinia Shire a great place to live is because of you.”

While the award may have surprised her, Non’s contribution to the community has been impossible to overlook.

Raised in Dandenong, Non was inspired by watching her parents regularly give back to the community before moving to Emerald in 1984 after getting married.

Her first volunteer roles came through her children’s school and kindergarten, where she started helping in classrooms and cutting up fruit.

But a community leadership program in India during the late 1990’s changed her outlook entirely.

It focused on community development and showed her that real change comes from communities working together.

“You can’t rely only on government systems, funding or paid work,” Non said.

“If you see something wrong, get out there and fix it in any way you can. That was probably the first time I realised I could make a difference.”

For more than 30 years, Non has made an extraordinary contribution to the cultural and community life across the Hills region. Her volunteer involvement spans numerous local organisations, including 15 years coordinating the Woorilla Writers Group, 20 years with the Emerald Community House, 15 years with GEMCO, 15 years managing the Emerald Market, 3 years leading the Arts Alliance, 32 years coordinating PAVE/Winterfest, and 2 years supporting Eastern Health.

She is currently working at Eastern Dandenong Ranges BASE — a vibrant hub for business, arts, and community development, driving regional economic, cultural development and collaborative projects.

A standout achievement has been Non’s lead-

Don’t expect something for nothing and don’t expect others to do everything for you. Get involved. You gain far more from it than you ever expect.”

ership of the Woorilla International Poetry Prize, which has elevated local, national and international voices while strengthening Emerald’s reputation as a creative and inclusive hub. Her standing support of the Emerald Community House has had a meaningful impact on everyday community members.

Non says the true reward has always been community resilience and the connections formed along the way.

“A lot of community groups and businesses here don’t really have much in common, but they come together and it’s just magic,” she said.

In a region vulnerable to bushfires and severe storms, she said those relationships can become critical during emergencies.

“If disaster hits, we already know each other, we know who has resources, who can help and how people can work together.”

Having lived in Emerald for over 40 years, Non has witnessed a broader cultural shift in how communities respond to problems.

“In the last 20-30 years, I’ve seen people getting out and contributing to society,” she said.

“They’re working together to lobby for change or to fix things themselves if they don’t like something.”

Her advice to younger generations is straightforward.

“Don’t expect something for nothing and don’t expect others to do everything for you. Get involved. You gain far more from it than you ever expect.”

However, Non believes volunteering more broadly is becoming increasingly difficult due to complex systems and administrative demands.

The biggest personal challenge throughout her journey has been the constant uncertainty behind the scenes.

“It was not known whether we’d secure funding or whether we’d have enough volunteers to continue year to year,” Non said.

She recalled periods where organisers were

forced to delay planning major festivals while waiting for grant outcomes, creating pressure for already stretched volunteer teams.

Non called all levels of government, particularly councils, to reduce unnecessary barriers that can discourage volunteers.

She suggested that funding processes or requirements for events should be designed to make volunteering “easier, safer and more enjoyable”.

She said councils should also invest in established community events and activities without requiring groups to constantly prove themselves.

Mayor Owen confirmed Cardinia Shire Council is currently developing a Volunteer Strategy to better understand the volunteering landscape across the shire and identify opportunities to support, sustain and grow their volunteer base.

“We have already begun targeted consultation with our existing volunteer groups, and we look forward to broader community engagement on the draft strategy in the coming months,” he said.

2026 Stan Henwood Award winner, Noelene Blair. (Rob Carew)

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

The postures we adopt

When it comes to workplace health, we all know how important our posture is… but many of us still admit we’re not very good at it. At my physiotherapy practice, we’re continuing to see high numbers of patients with postural-related back and neck pain. As society continues to shift towards working-from-home, with longer screen time and less incidental movement in our day, it means posture is as important as ever.

The reality is, having a good posture – especially whilst sitting at a desk or a computer – is really hard. To put it straight, the human body is simply not designed to sit at a desk for eight hours a day. Yet, for so many of us we are doing just that. Not only are we working from home and online more than ever before, we’re still sitting on the couch watching tv, playing video games or even worse...crouched over our phones checking Facebook! No wonder I’m treating so many headaches, back aches and muscle tightness issues.

The best cure for poor posture is, quite simply, to get up and move around. Our bodies are designed to move and be active. Interestingly, there is a growing body of scientific research that suggests a slumped or slouched posture isn’t actually linked with pain any more than a “correct” posture. However, what is linked with pain is how long we’re in that posture for. We need to break up long periods of sitting – so go for a walk, get into the garden, head to the gym. Even just changing your posture regularly can help to reduce the risk of back pain and headaches from sitting. Now, this doesn’t mean we forget all that we’ve learned in the past about posture – a good work station set-up is still important. Obviously,

we can’t avoid sitting altogether – so when we’re relaxing, studying or at work we need to ensure that our desk-set up is correct. That can include things like a lumbar cushion, quality chair and ensuring an appropriate height of computer screen. It might be helpful to get an expert like a physiotherapist to check out your desk set-up. Learning appropriate stretches to manage tight muscles is helpful as is strengthening your postural muscles through specific exercises. So remember, it’s not so much what posture you’re in, it’s how long you’re in it for that’s most important. Get out there and keep moving!

Ben Croxford is a Physiotherapist and leads the team at Form & Practice Mt Evelyn, Olinda and Chirnside Park. His writings explore his favourite health topics, challenge common myths and aim to empower you to take control of your own health. Find out more at formandpractice. com.au

Specialist

Having correct desk posture can prevent ailments like headaches, back aches and muscle tightness issues. (Unsplash)

Seeing a physiotherapist can improve postural concerns. (Unsplash)

Sherbrooke art celebration

By Tanya Steele

Luminous landscapes, portraits and more were unveiled in late May for the launch of an annual beloved art exhibition Sherbrooke, which saw local art celebrated and the community gather.

Amidst entries from across Australia, Saturday 23 May saw the Sherbrooke Arts Society celebrate their annual Streeton, Roberts and McCubbin Art Awards (SRMcC) with record attendance and cheer all around.

170 entries for the awards gave Judge Andrew Mackenzie OAM the challenge of picking winners for 2026 from amongst the 69 entrants.

The selection of 17 finalists across four categories saw the Streeton award for Best Landscape go to Lois Bannister for her oil painting ‘Backlit Splendour’.

The Roberts Award for best non-landscape went to Ben Winspear for his watercolour painting ‘Last of the Stragglers’, the McCubbin Award for best small painting went to Ern Trembatch for his oil painting ‘ Old Farm near Thornton’, and the Withers Award for best watercolour went to Malcom Webster for his painting ‘Point Kings Beach’.

Local and long-time artist Lois Bannister from The Patch was shocked to her core when she was awarded the Streeton award and said it was a wonderful surprise.

“There’s such a lot of wonderful artists in that show that I really didn’t have any expectations higher than that, and so when it was announced, I just about fell off my chair,” she said.

Ms Bannister’s final submission came about from sketches on a group trip to Thornton she made taken a few years ago around the countryside across Healesville and Alexandra, which is known as a prized area for artists to visit and paint scenes from.

Like the Australian Renaissance artists Tom Roberts, Arthur Streeton and Frederick McCubbin of the famous Heidelberg School, many are inspired by stunning scenery across the Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley and the autumn scenery offers a window of glamour for the roving eye as leaves change and fog stretches through trees.

Longtime hosts of the SRMcC awards the Sherbrooke Arts Society has seen a number of amazing works submitted over the years and Ms Bannister said she’s never submitted a backlit style painting to a competition before and that the colours of autumn in her painting translated well onto canvas.

“They are a nice combination,” she said.

Sherbrooke Arts Society is a mixed group of artists that both attend and run classes from the Sherbrooke Art Gallery, as well as host a number of exhibitions throughout the calendar year and it also has a dedicated volunteer base.

Already back to creating, Ms Bannister said she always has something in the works, but enjoys her regular monthly social painting group at the gallery.

“I’m always working on something,” she said.

People can visit the latest exhibition until 20 June and see the variety of works submitted for this year’s awards at Sherbrooke Art Gallery at 62 Monbulk Road, Belgrave.

Taunus stands strong, 95 years on, as Montsalvat’s sibling

By Tanya Steele

A doctor, an artist, fine dining and more, the striking stone house of Belgrave has had its history unveiled as the local custodian of the National Trust property delved what is now a beloved cafe in the Dandenong Ranges.

Current owner and longtime Hills resident Peter Jordan-Hill took the Sherbrooke Foothills Historical Society group and other guests through a special talk on an iconic building from the Hills area on 12 May.

Known as the “Taunus” building or “Jorgie’s” once upon a time in Belgrave, Mr Jordan-Hill said the gathering and talk in Upwey celebrating the property went well.

“The group seemed to enjoy it and were receptive on the night,” he said.

Listed on the National Trust database from 16 June 1977, the National Trust describes the building as a “spacious stone house, studiochapel and garden setting of romantic medieval inspiration”.

Designed and constructed by Dr Elef Jorgensen and his artist wife, Madelaine, nee Levick, in 1931, and later added to by Elef’s brother Justus, the building is made of solid granite quarried in South Belgrave.

The house is also often described as the sibling property of the Montsalvat in Eltham, a five-hectare site known throughout Melbourne as a famous bohemian artist colony and home to many buildings, including houses, halls, studios, galleries and stables, housing artists, functions and more.

Here in Belgrave, Taunus, with it’s carved woodwork and elements taken from older buildings have enchanted locals and beyond for decades. The site with both the main grand house and two smaller cottages, peeks out from Burwood Highway. Inside the high ceilings,

brickwork and wooden staircases engage the wandering eye.

The building has a definite presence to it Mr Jordan-Hill said the original owner was actually his own family doctor when he was a teenager, and he has always loved it.

“It was classified for its architecture and the quality of its build,” he said.

“I believe it was certainly one of the younger properties classified.”

Mr Jordan-Hill said most people don’t realise the Belgrave property came before the Montsalvat one.

“The back section was completed in 1953,” said Mr Jordan-Hill.

“The bluestone in the rear was second-hand bluestone,” he said.

When it came on the market, Mr Jordan-Hill

said the Shire of Sherbrooke at the time looked to purchase the property, and Mr Jordan-Hill said when their arrangement fell through he bought it in partnership with two others, on 29 April 1985, for a sum of 280,000 dollars.

“It was a lot of money then,” he said.

“We called it Jorgies, because Elef was known locally as Jorgie or Doc Jorgie,” he said.

The trio bought the house to turn it into a fine dining establishment, and Mr Jordan-Hill said it needed a lot of work to make it ready.

It was officially opened by Deputy Premier at the time, Bill Borthwick, and the restaurant donated the first night’s takings of $6000 to the William Angliss Hospital.

Mr Jordan-Hill said in those first months of operations, changes in the taxes and economy in 1985 changed the financial landscape for the freshly opened business, and this, in turn, spelt changes for the future of the restaurant.

“People were no longer going to fine dining restaurants,” he said.

Pivoting the business to a less high-brow style eatery, Mr Jordan-Hill said they brought the property down market for a while and did endeavour to sell it.

Later he bought it completely, becoming the sole owner from around 1983 and he has now been leasing it out since 1987.

Earthly Pleasures took up residence in the space and moved their cafe into the building in 2008.

The cafe is a local staple in Belgrave, and the building is visited by architecture and history buffs near and far quite regularly and a social media influencer recently described it as a “slice of Europe” as they brunched in the sunshine.

While not too many mysteries are attached to the site, the house remains iconic and Mr Jordan- Hill said he has no plans to sell.

Taunus or Jorgie’s house is leased by the Earthly Pleasures Cafe which operates from the historic and National trust listed site. (Supplied)

Winner of the Streeton award, Patch local Lois Bannister. (Supplied)

Judge Andrew Mackenzie and Lois Bannister, Ms Bannister was quite floored by her win.

Winner of the Withers Watercolour Award, Malcom Webster.

Birds, critters and more

Critters of all kinds from near and far have been captured up close by the lenses of the Hills Photographic Society, and the members have kindly allowed Star Mail a preview of their winning photography from their set subject, Birds and Animals.

The 30-strong all-abilities camera club from Emerald has released their mid-May awards for its members across the Yarra Ranges, and the captures are stunning, with some lovely animal meetcutes of the animal world on show.

The judge’s choice award was captured this month by Upwey local John Weeks.

An avid bird photographer, John travels to bird hotspots regularly, and his winning capture, Rainbow Lorikeet, was taken in John’s previous backyard, in Belgrave. His garden attracted a lot of birds, as it was next to Borthwick Park.

The highly commended category included shots by photographers Nola Ford, Paul Bianco, Paul Walton and Pauline White.

In the commended category, Paul Bianco was noted for his shot, Very Cocky, taken at Halls Gap, along with photos by ALLAN PAN, NOLA FORD, TRISH CARPENTER, STEVE BRUHN, PAULINE WHITE, PAUL WALTON, KATHIE THOMAS, DES LAVERY, MIKE WHARTON AND MICHAEL KAVANAGH

The camera club is based at the Emerald Hub and meets twice a month. They recently had their annual exhibition showing through April at the Puffing Billy Visitor Centre.

With an all-level approach, the group are now looking forward to a 70’s dress-up night on 28 May and the group will practise posed portrait photography on the night.

Highly Commended, Norfolk Island Booby (Paul Walton)

Highly Commended, Paul Bianco caught this lemur shot at the Melbourne Zoo. (Paul Bianco)

Highly Commended. Dog on the run. A rescue dog named Cooper is enjoying a run in the paddock. (Nola Ford)

Highly Commended. Bug Catcher. The dragonfly was perched on his clothesline, and miraculously sat still long enough for Paul to get a shot of it. (Paul Walton)

Highly commended. Dog gone it, how much longer? (Nola Ford)

Little Wattlebird. Spotted at Cranbourne Botanical Gardens, a great spot for birdwatchers. (Kathie Thomas)

Judge’s Choice. Rainbow Lorikeet. (John Weeks)

Highly Commended. Stealth (Pauline White)

Digging around near Paul’s pond in Monbulk. (Paul Walton)

Fundamental as anything

WOORILLA WORDS

By Maria Millers

One of the simple pleasures in winter is to slip into a pair of warm jammies and snuggle into bed with a good book or your favourite podcast.

Butthissimplepleasureduringthecoldmonths is not shared by a growing number of people.

Last year more than 105,000 Victorians sought homelessness assistance. As well as those who were rough sleeping many were living in cars or tents, couch surfing, staying in overcrowded dwellings or living in housing considered unsafe.

Those who have made homes in caravan parks face uncertainty as owners, particularly those in suburban areas, look to capitalize on development possibilities.

Rough sleepers are difficult to count accurately but in some areas they are becoming increasingly visible and can face hostility from local residents.

Sleeping in public parks and spaces is not just a problem today.

The Hunchback in the Park — by Dylan Thomas written after WW2 shows a lonely outcast sleeping in a park probably in London:

A solitary mister

Propped between trees and water

From the opening of the garden lock

That lets the trees and water enter

Until the Sunday sombre bell at dark.

Eating bread from a newspaper

Drinking water from the chained cup

That the children filled with gravel

In the fountain basin where I sailed my ship

Slept at night in a dog kennel

But nobody chained him up.

Today we are living through a housing crisis with numbers most likely much higher than the official figures. As many people move frequently between temporary arrangements there is probably far more hidden homelessness

In Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of human needs shelter was a basic physiological need alongside air, water food and sleep.

And without stable shelter, people often struggle to consistently meet higher-level needs like education, employment, relationships, mental wellbeing, or social participation.

And the right to adequate housing is recognised in international human rights law, including the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 25), which says everyone has the right to an adequate standard of living including housing.

Culturally in Australia, owning your own house has been the aspiration for most.

Almost a rite of passage from living at home to becoming an independent adult, to buying a house, starting and raising a family and being able to retire with dignity.

The detached suburban house became a symbol of success, but also conformity, materialism, and social anxiety but as Henri Thoreau warned back in the 1800s, “Our houses are such unwieldy property that we are often imprisoned rather than housed in them”.

The obsession with housing as real estate rather than shelter is embedded in our culture.

Buying, selling and renovating houses have been the staples of barbeque and dinner party conversations .Popular television shows whether with a real estate or renovation underpinnings always rate highly.

Think of The Block and back to the long running Burke’s Backyard with its catchy signature tune: Give me a home among the gum trees, with lots of plum trees

A dog or two and a barbecue flowers down the side

And veggies by the fence all in Burke’s Backyard

But for many today this romantic vision of owning a house is fast disappearing.

Many see it as a betrayal of the promise of the Australian Dream. Others are looking to new ways of living.

Yet this is not the first time that there have been periods of housing shortages.

Going back to World War One, the Depression of the 30s and post World War Two these were all times when there were shortages in housing.

But Governments were then more motivated to take an active role in solving the crises with positive intervention.

Initiatives like the Commonwealth Housing Commission and the Commonwealth State Housing Agreement funded massive public constructions. Large areas of land for suburbs were opened up and construction of prefabricated and standardiszed housing was employed.

Not McMansions, but homes that provided shelter to many with the shortage resolved by the 1960s.

The suburb of Doveton was established in the 1950s by the State Housing Commission to provide housing for the employees of what used to be known as The Big Three industrial companies: International Harvester, HJ Heinz and General Motors Holden. Two thousand houses at a cost of seven million pounds.

Many like Dennis Glover who grew up in one of these houses have fond memories of living there. He has gone on to become an academic, a speechwriter of note and author of books on politics, as well as novels.

Today there is a shortage of affordable dwellings available for sale or rental.

The post World War II boom in building new homes and social housing has petered out.

Back then it was within the reach of most to have a modest home on one permanent full time wage.

Today many are in uncertain employment with a looming threat of the impact of AI.

House prices have increased faster than wages and so have the costs of education, insurance, utilities, healthcare, groceries and because most women have to work, also childcare.

This has led to increasing concerns about accessibility to house ownership, particularly for younger generations and low-income families, creating a sense of urgency and debate surrounding housing policy which we can see being played out today.

The notion of owning a house as a home to provide a safe haven for the family began to change as politicians encouraged buying a house as an investment.

For many Australians, owning a house is now one of the primary means of wealth accumulation.

Real estate is viewed as a stable investment, providing both financial security and a potential source of income through capital gains.

And various government have encouraged home ownership with schemes such as the First Home Owner Grant and various tax incentives, the latest being now debated in Parliament.

And yet we have one of the the highest house debts out of developing countries.

A new social divide is being created with young people central to the ongoing debate on the Budget initiatives.

They often lack the support systems and financial resources needed to secure stable housing or don’t have the back-up from the Bank of Mum and Dad.

People with Mental Health and disability challenges also face barriers to accessing stable housing,oftenresultinginhigherratesofhomelessness.

Women now make up almost 60 per cent of homelessness in Victoria.

Domestic violence remains the leading cause but it can also be a late in life marriage break up, inadequate super and the road from suburban respectability to sleeping in a car to rough sleeping can be very short and bumpy.

It is no surprise that Indigenous Australians are disproportionately affected by homelessness.

As are those from culturally and linguistically

Kangaroo joey makes the school run

By Gabriella Weir

Why did the joey cross the road? Kazz has been a school crossing supervisor out the front of Emerald Primary School for five years and recently had an adorable encounter with a kangaroo joey. On 22 May, Kazz had a special visitor come to the school crossing, a baby kangaroo! The kangaroo was a student’s grandma’s joey. The wildlife rescuer was staying with her grandkids for the weekend and brought three joeys with her. Unable to be left alone because they were still

on a bottle, one of the joeys made the exciting trip to the school.

“As I saw it, I just went, ‘Oh my god, I’ve got to have a cuddle’,” Kazz said as she was describing her encounter with the baby kangaroo.

“I’ve been a nurse and I’ve been in finance and done lots of other jobs, but this is by far the best job I’ve ever had. I love the community. I just love my job,” she said.

Kazz adores seeing dogs everyday, but also met “a little piglet” while at work.

diverse backgrounds, particularly refugees who may lack resources and social networks, The Australian Dream has become a nightmare for a growing number of Australians. And it’s not just about owning a house but also about finding affordable rentals.

Unlike other countries we do not have a culture of renting and investment in social housing whether it be public housing owned and managed by state governments, or community housing managed by not for profit organizations is slow.

However, a growing number of younger Australians, especially millennials and Generation Z, are more likely to rent due to financial constraints and shifting priorities. Many in these generations prioritize flexibility, lifestyle choices, and job mobility over traditional home ownership. Renting is sometimes viewed as a lifestyle choice that allows for greater freedom and adaptability.

Bruce Dawe: homo suburbensis

One constant in a world of variables

A man alone in the evening in his patch of vegetables,

and all the things he takes down with him there

Where the easement runs along the back fence and the air

smells of tomato-vines, and the hoarse rasping tendrils of pumpkin flourish clumsy whips and their foliage sprawls.

Maybe that suburban life so portrayed by shows like Burke’s Backyard and in Bruce Dawe’s homo suberbensis has lost its appeal.

Or perhaps having travelled overseas and seen the many countries that do not have the same obsession with house ownership as does Australia.

Renting in most European cities is not seen as a stop gap measure or a social marker but accepted as a normal option.

The difference is that tenants’ rights are protected and governments often are involved. Tenants can live their whole lives in an apartment and are free to renovate, have pets etc. And no stigma is attached to renting.

For many young people this is a more attractive option; in fact, a more environmentally considered one, limiting urban sprawl and the use of resources needed for new builds..

Governments are slowly recognizing the legitimacy of renting but still have to navigate the resistance of those who can’t let go of the emotional hold of house ownership or those who have been conditioned to view it only in terms of wealth accumulation

Those advocating for affordable housing and against homelessness, have articulated a philosophical stance that frames housing as a human right. Organisations like Shelter Australia focus on policy advocacy and raising awareness about housing inequalities. There has also been a growing movement towards sustainable housing: smaller houses with energy efficient design, sensitive densification.

Media representation and cultural narratives are slowly beginning to celebrate diverse housing arrangements and lifestyles, recognizing renting as a legitimate and sometimes preferred choice

It’s important that we have conversations at all levels from the barbeque to boardrooms to governments about the possibilities of change in the way we view housing and the possibilities open to achieve a better way.

Buddhist meditation teacher, Phillip Moffitt said: A house is a home when it shelters the body and comforts the soul. And it doesn’t have to have five toilets, butler’s pantry, cinema room. It can be an environmentally sound small dwelling or apartment and can be either rented or owned.

“I used to rescue wildlife,” said Kazz as she explained her love for animals. “I fostered kittens before as well. It’s really hard to let them go, but you do what you do.”

“All the volunteers are incredible. Our country runs on volunteers, as far as I’m concerned.”

Kazz has lived in Cockatoo for 29 years, and also enjoys gardening.

“I just love animals, so I embrace them all,” Kazz said. “I just have always had animals in my life, and I will until the day I die.”

The joey had a little cuddle on the way to school drop off with an out of town grandparent. (Supplied)

The right to adequate housing is recognised in international human rights law. (File)

Milestone coming up

Yarra Hills Secondary College Mt Evelyn will celebrate two anniversaries in 2026.

This year marks 15 years since the name change to Yarra Hills, and 40 years since the school building was opened.

The anniversary coincides with a vibrant repaint of the exterior.

Local educators realised in the 1970s that Mt Evelyn would need a secondary school and that there would soon be no land of adequate size left in the town.

The Mt Evelyn and District Education Committee (MEDEC) was formed in 1975 by community leaders and educators, chaired by Councillor Gwen Hardy.

The Secondary College land was formerly part of Morrisons’ orchard.

When the last of the Morrison family died, MEDEC persuaded the Shire to buy the house and orchard lots. Part of this land was transferred to the Education Department. MEDC’s plan was for a lifelong educational precinct serving all ages from infants to adults.

This ambitious plan was only partially realised, as funding for a proposed primary school

Babirra delivers top quality

Kemp’s curtain call

Burrinja Theatre

AnhDo–TheHappiestRefugeeLive

Anh Do’s bestselling book The Happiest Refugee has made readers laugh and cry, described by Russel Crowe as “the most surprising and inspiring read I have had in years.”

Anh’s stage show takes a step further, combining stand up comedy with real life stories, photos,andfilmedpiecestoretellhisamazing story.

When one of Australia’s most talented comedians delves deep onto his own life’s joys and sorrows, the result is an unforgettable night at the theatre that leaves the audience uplifted and quite simply experiencing happiness.

• Season: Thursday 25 June at 7.30pm.

TheRound

BabirraMusicTheatre

42ndStreet

Babirra Theatre certainly gave its audience a touch of the past with its production of 42nd Street.

Plenty of old tunes such as Lullaby of Broadway,YoungandHealthy,ShadowWaltz, We’re in the Money and so on.

Alargecastof34,verytalentedperformers, the tap dancing was superb, always in time and very professional.

The talent of this production was absolutely fabulous. Playing the lead was Chelsea Hyde as Peggy Sawer. A very talented actor, tap dancer and singer. She portrayed the character with finesse and projects well. I have only one complaint, her wig was not put on properly and her own hair showed beneath it.

Dorothy Baker, the star of the show, who came down with a broken ankle, was given a great interpretation of the role by Nicole Kapinharis-anson. She played a temperamental star with a boyfriend who was financing the production. the director of the show, Julian Marsh was givenaterrificinterpretationbyRichardThomas.

A good performer who with all the troubles he had with the leading ladies gave an outstanding portrayal.

fell through. The much-needed secondary school however went ahead.

Mt Evelyn Technical School opened on 6 February 1979, with Geoff McPherson as the first Principal.

Mr McPherson wrote in a letter: “112 students and 14 teachers gathered for the first assembly among newly placed relocatable buildings, building materials, excavations, dirt and mess” (Geoff McPherson letter, 12 December 1983).

The permanent core buildings, designed by architect John Zourkas, were opened in 1986.

Around 1990 the Education Department abol-

CARTOON

ished the distinction between High Schools and Technical Schools. All were to be called Secondary Colleges. Mt Evelyn Technical School became Mt Evelyn Secondary College (SC).

In 1995 Mt Evelyn SC amalgamated with Pembroke SC (formerly Pembroke High), and Mooroolbark SC (formerly Mooroolbark Tech).

The combined three-campus school retained the name Pembroke Secondary College and the logo of the gold griffin on blue. After consultation with the school community, the name was changed to Yarra Hills Secondary College in 2011.

Mt Evelyn was at that time a junior campus (Years 7-10) but now goes through from Year 7 to Year 12.

The exterior of the Mt Evelyn buildings, originally of light-coloured bricks, was painted around 2000 in a sandy colour. The buildings are now being redecorated in a striking scheme of dark blue, grey and gold, featuring the griffin logo. Local artist David Monks created the design, which is being painted by former student Benny Caulfield.

How

you’ll

Inde Navarette and Michael John-

Turning head-over-heels love perverse and violating, often with a note of pitch-black humour, Obsession is a masterwork of nuanced character-driven dread written and directed by Curry Barker.

Baron (Michael Johnstone) uses a One Wish Willow novelty toy to make his crush Nikki (Inde Navarette) fall in love with him, with horrifying results.

Channelling the spirit of Jack Torrance from The Shining with her unhinged facial and vocal contortions, Navarette conveys a terrifying pres-

Ninja Attack review: A wild read

When Japanese cultural historian and folklorist Hiroko Yoda visited the 2026 Melbourne Writers Festival, it was to promote her latest book Eight Million Ways to Happiness. Her husband and creative partner Matt Alt was also a guest, participating in a “Translation Slam” to highlight the challenges and joys of working across languages and cultures.

Yoda and Alt are co-authors of Ninja Attack!: True Tales of Assassins, Samurai, and Outlaws, an informative and entertaining graphic novel that introduces “dozens of unforgettable real-life ninja straight out of the annals of Japanese history – many of whom are all but unknown outside their home country”.

The book can be rather illuminating to those who think they know their ninja from movies, TV shows, comic books, anime, and video games. Rather than regurgitating various ninja-related stereotypes regularly circulated by mass media, the authors delve into a great variety of historical, literary and academic sources to chronicle the true stories of Japan’s most famous masters of espionage.

As the authors point out: “The trappings so intimately associated with ninja both in Japan and abroad – the outfits, the death-defying leaps and jumps, the exotic weapons and accoutrements – are, in the end, secondary to the men and women behind the masks… The key points of what constitute a ninja in the public mind – the masks, the shuriken stars, the black outfits – have been honed into a visual shorthand that happens to appeal to people around the world.”

Particularly eye-opening is how innovative and unorthodox ninja were, adopting all sorts of modern military tactics and technologies to accomplish their missions.

For example, in 1183, Togakushi Daisuke strapped flaming torches to the horns of a herd of cattle and stampeded them against energy forces.

In 1570, Sugitani Zenjubo used an early type of matchlock rifle called arquebus in his attempt to assassinate warlord Oda Nobunaga.

ence as Nikki while still being the undeniable victim. Nikki becomes violently possessive toward Baron, but her bursts of reticence or exaggerated devotion (and a gross plot-thread involving Baron’s cat) suggest that she resents or hates him, even subconsciously, beneath the wish forcing her to love him. In scenes of quiet, nail-biting unease or shocking violence, you fear Nikki but also fear for her. You also quickly come to hate Baron: you could put yourself in his shoes as a mild-mannered guy overwhelmed by Nikki’s behaviour, but he clearly doesn’t respect her, wish or no wish, and so Nikki’s mayhem is all on him.

While far darker, Obsession is a thematic cousin of the 2012 romantic comedy Ruby Sparks, in which an author writes his dream girlfriend into existence. Both films are about a man magically imposing a romantic role upon a woman without her consent.

Obsession features brooding music, immersive long takes and gloomy lighting that sends your tense imagination racing, and one brilliantly chilling scene of Nikki in shadow except for the gleam in her eyes reminded me of John Carpenter’s The Thing.

Playing in most Victorian cinemas, Obsession is a gut-wrenching horror character study about consent, coercion and a cursed wish, and is my new favourite film of the year so far.

- Seth Lukas Hynes.

Miyamoto Musashi (1584-1645), Japan’s most famous swordsman, relied more on strategic use of psychological warfare than any one type of weapon or fighting style. Meanwhile, Tokugawa Yoshimune (16841751) was not only a shogun but also the man who established Japan’s first true clandestine intelligence service.

The dramatic stories of these and many other “shadow warriors” are revealed in individual “dossiers”, which are divided into groups such as “Ninja’s Ninja”, “Ninja Gone Bad”, “Ninja’s Magic”, “Ninja Masters” and “The Ninja Destroyer”.

These are accompanied by timelines, maps, photos, and visually striking full-page manga-style drawings.

Perhaps the most enlightening section is “The Illustrated Ninja”, which depicts ninja styles, tools, tricks, techniques, weapons, foods, and even their homes as heavily fortified hideouts.

These are followed by pages explaining the ninja legacy, how these ancient “special agents” have inspired and influenced all forms of art in Japan and across the world. This is a wildly delightful book that reads like a well-researched academic work disguised as a comprehensive and accessible guide, full of thrilling action and funny anecdotes, capable of bridging the gap between times and cultures. Highly recommended.

PUZZLES

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

ACROSS

1 Plant of the genus that includes cabbage (8)

5 Prizes (6)

10 Riverside embankment (5)

11 Central American country (9)

12 Tallies (6)

13 I don’t know (coll) (5,2)

14 Inverted (8)

15 Alliance (6)

18 Round, red root; salad vegetable (6)

20 Masters (8)

21 16th US president (7)

24 Common fruits (6)

27 Garrulous (9)

28 Popular aquarium fish (5)

29 Peril (6)

30 Resent someone’s pleasure or good fortune (8)

1 Light globe (4)

2 Publicly supported (9) 3 Slur (5) 4 Box (8)

6 Hub for military planes (7)

7 Recommends (5)

8 Brazen (9)

9 Crust formed over a cut (4)

14 Not connected by kinship (9)

16 Clothed (9)

17 From Osaka, e.g. (8)

19 Repository (7)

22 A tough synthetic polymer (5)

23 Fastener (4)

25 Father (Lat) (5)

26 Counterfeit (4)

LUXURY HOME IN LIFESTYLE LOCATION

LUXURY HOME IN LIFESTYLE LOCATION

LOCALS and tree-changers alike will fall in love with this meticulously renovated, lowmaintenance home in the heart of Olinda village.

Park the car and take a stroll to some of the best local restaurants and shopping, then return to the creature comforts of this inviting and elegant home.

Set upon a manageable 1/4 acre approx. (949sqm) of freshly landscaped gardens, this striking residence appears stately and exclusive.

Step inside the front foyer to find a picturewindow study and main floor master suite, and you will appreciate the attention to detail, the strong design elements, and the fine fittings and fixtures.

With an enormous WIR and luxurious ensuite, lush carpet, large windows, and gorgeous colour palette, the master suite is a relaxing and rejuvenating space to unwind.

The second level continues to inspire with 2 living areas, crisp white kitchen with island bench and high-end fixtures, and covered treetop deck ideal for enjoying the seasonally coloured surrounds.

Read a book in the window bench seat, relax by the open fire, or gather in the casual dining area year round. 2 additional bedrooms, a stunning central bath, and generous laundry complete the floorplan.

Additional highlights include French door access to the secure rear garden, ample storage throughout, rustic floorboards, and structural landscape works including stone retaining walls and flagstone pathways.

With an impeccable residence and vibrant village life combination, plan your inspection today.

HOME FOCUS

STORYBOOK CHARM IN A SERENE FOREST SETTING

TUCKED away at the end of a peaceful nothrough road in the heart of the breathtaking Dandenong Ranges, the enchanting Seaview Cottage (circa 1927) delivers a rare blend of timeless character, contemporary comfort, and tranquil Hills living.

Surrounded by lush established gardens and backing directly onto the picturesque Moore Break walking trail, this captivating residence offers a lifestyle immersed in nature, privacy and serenity. Wander through the magical Sherbrooke Forest to discover iconic local attractions including Sherbrooke Falls, Sherbrooke Creek and an abundance of scenic picnic spots perfect for family afternoons.

Positioned on approximately 1,021sqm, the home has been thoughtfully rejuvenated over time to suit modern family living while preserving its charming storybook appeal.

Elevated ceilings, polished timber floors and beautiful natural light create a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout.

Designed with flexibility and family functionality in mind, the residence features multiple living zones, three generous bedrooms, two stylish bathrooms and a stunning Hampton’s inspired kitchen complete with stone benchtops, tiled splashbacks and a 900mm cooktop. A spacious covered alfresco seamlessly extends the living space outdoors, creating the perfect setting for year round entertaining amongst the trees.

The luxurious master suite enjoys direct alfresco access alongside built-in robes and a beautifully appointed ensuite, while two charming attic style bedrooms upstairs are framed by soaring cathedral ceilings, enhancing the home’s unique character.

A cozy fireplace anchors the formal lounge, while a dedicated front study with leafy green outlook provides an idyllic work from home environment.

Property Features

Charming circa 1927 character home in a peaceful forest setting

Three spacious bedrooms and two bathrooms

• Luxurious master suite with ensuite, built-in robes & alfresco access

• Elegant family bathroom with freestanding clawfoot bathtub

Two attic style upstairs bedrooms with cathedral ceilings

• Stunning Hampton’s style kitchen with stone benchtops & 900mm cooktop

• Multiple living areas designed for family flexibility

• Formal lounge with cozy fireplace

Polished timber floorboards and elevated ceilings throughout

Dedicated home office/study with tranquil garden outlook

• Spacious laundry with stone benchtops

• Split system heating & cooling plus ducted heating

• Expansive covered alfresco entertaining area

FAMILY SANCTUARY WITH STUNNING VIEWS

NESTLED in a peaceful and picturesque pocket of Belgrave Heights, this beautifully presented family home at 12 Glen Road offers the perfect lifestyle retreat surrounded by nature, privacy and breathtaking outlooks.

Positioned on a stunning allotment with a tranquil treed backdrop, this warm and inviting residence combines character, comfort and modern updates to create the ultimate Hills lifestyle. Conveniently located close to local schools, shops, cafes and public transport, the home delivers the ideal balance of peaceful living and everyday convenience.

Inside, the spacious and flexible floorplan features three generous bedrooms and two bathrooms, perfectly suited to growing families. The heart of the home is the stunning updated kitchen, complete with quality finishes, a huge servery window and effortless connection to the expansive outdoor entertaining areas.

Designed to embrace indoor-outdoor living, the open plan kitchen, dining, and lounge area flows seamlessly out to the covered verandah and impressive deck, perfect for entertaining family and friends year round while taking in the beautiful natural outlook.

Upstairs, the oversized rumpus room, study nook and private main bedroom retreat with walk-in robe and ensuite provide additional space for relaxation, work or family living.

Comfort is assured year round with gas ducted heating and split system heating and cooling, adding modern convenience to this charming Hills residence.

Additional features include:

• Expansive covered entertaining deck with BBQ area

Large rumpus room and separate office/ study spaces

Double garage plus carport

• Workshop/storage nook

• Character timber façade and charming Hills appeal

• Beautiful established gardens and outdoor firepit area

• Gas ducted heating and split system heating/cooling

Exceptional indoor-outdoor flow throughout Offering space, serenity and a true connection to nature, this is a rare opportunity to secure a stunning family home in one of the Hills’ most desirable locations.

Inspect and experience the lifestyle for yourself. ●

FAMILY RETREAT WITH DUAL ACCESS, TRIPLE GARAGE

SET amongst the tranquil surrounds of Belgrave Heights, 16 Colby Drive presents a wonderful opportunity to embrace a relaxed Hills lifestyle with space, comfort, and timeless charm.

Privately positioned on a beautifully established block and surrounded by lush greenery, this inviting brick residence offers the perfect balance of peaceful living while remaining conveniently close to everyday amenities. Warm and welcoming from the moment you arrive, the home showcases a spacious, light-filled layout designed for effortless family living. The generous lounge is enhanced by a cosy fireplace, creating the ideal setting for the cooler months, while ducted heating and split system cooling ensure year-round comfort throughout. Large windows invite an abundance of natural light inside while framing peaceful garden outlooks, adding to the home’s calming ambience.

The kitchen blends practicality with character, offering ample bench space, excellent storage, and seamless access to the outdoor entertaining area. Beautiful timber flooring adds warmth and charm throughout, complementing the neutral interiors and creating a home that feels both inviting

HOME ESSENTIALS

16 Colby Drive, BELGRAVE

Conder 0422

relaxing, or simply taking in the natural beauty of the Dandenong Ranges. Landscaped gardens provide both privacy and a picturesque backdrop, making this property feel like a true retreat from everyday life.

A standout feature of the property is the enclosed triple garage, offering exceptional versatility and storage with dual access from both ends of the block - perfect for tradies, car enthusiasts, trailers, or those requiring additional secure parking and workspace.

Additional highlights include solar panels for enhanced energy efficiency, ample off-street parking, and a practical family-friendly floorplan suited to a broad range of buyers including families, first home buyers, downsizers, and investors alike.

Conveniently located within easy reach of local schools, shops, cafes, parklands, walking trails, and public transport, this charming residence delivers an enviable lifestyle in one of the Hills’ most sought-after pockets.

Whether you’re looking to move straight in, embrace the peaceful surroundings, or secure a quality property in a tightly held location, 16 Colby Drive is a home that offers warmth, comfort, and exceptional lifestyle appeal. ●

HOME FOCUS

‘KHANDALA’, FOUR ACRES OF TRANQUILITY

ESCAPE to the peace and charm of country living with this beautifully maintained lifestyle property set on approximately 4 acres of picturesque flat land. Privately positioned behind an enchanting oak-lined driveway, this inviting residence offers a rare combination of space, warmth, and timeless character, all surrounded by stunning established gardens and a large dam.

“Khandala” welcomes you with a warm and cosy ambience, featuring 3 bedrooms, the main with fireplace, also open plan living and a thoughtfully designed interior that has been impeccably cared for inside and out. At the heart of the home is the bespoke ‘Smith & Smith’ kitchen, complete with timber benchtops, a contemporary oven, dishwasher and a beautifully restored vintage-style wood oven, now converted to an electric stove top — blending country charm with modern convenience.

Comfort is assured year-round with split system heating and cooling, as well as a wood heater for those cooler months. The luxurious bathroom adds a touch of indulgence with a floating vanity, deep soaking tub, and separate shower.

Outside, the property continues to impress with exceptional infrastructure for vehicles, storage, and hobbies, including a double carport, double garage, and a substantial barnstyle garage with room for up to 3 additional vehicles plus workshop space. There is also a veggie patch and abundant open space to enjoy the relaxed country lifestyle.

The magnificent gardens are a true highlight, lovingly established over the years and highlighting an array of botanical trees and shrubs that provide beauty and colour throughout every season.

Adding further appeal is the 3KW solar power system helping to keep energy costs low, while the location offers the perfect balance of privacy and convenience — just a short drive to both Pakenham and Gembrook, with local shops, cafes, eateries, and the primary school all within easy reach.

Tucked away from the road and surrounded by nature, this is the country escape you have been dreaming of. ●

LIFESTYELoCATIoN

Architecturallydistinctive,thisprivatethree-levelretreatblendscontemporarycomfort withthepeacefulcharmofthehills.Tuckedawayonjustovera quarteracreof establishedgardens,thehomeoffers araresenseofseclusionwhilestillbeingmoments fromtheheartofEmerald.Featuresa flexible floorplanthatincludesa stunning top-floor mainretreat,designer kitchenwithS/Sappliances,a strikingstone fireplace,GDH, doubleglazedwindows,soaringceilings,extrawatertankforthegardenandsolarpower.

CaitiEllis 0493136937

MoUNTAINVIEWS

JacksonAcott 0494142438

WALK-To-ToWNCoNvENIENCE

Filledwithnaturallightandthoughtfullyupdatedthroughout,thishomeoffersthekindof comfortablelifestylethatsuitsfamiliesateverystage.Freshlypaintedand fittedwithnew carpets& laminate flooring,thehomehas aclean,modernfeelwhilestillmaintaininga cosyatmosphere.The flexiblelayoutincludes,a study/5thBedroom,multiplelivingareas wellequippedkitchenwithinductioncooktop,wood fire,a splitsystemforheatingand cooling,gardenshedanda fullyfencedbackyardsetona useable807sqm(approx.)

CaitiEllis 0493136937 UNIQUEDESIGN,BUILTIN2023

AmeticulouslyrenovatedhomeintheheartofolindaVillage.Setupon949sqmoffreshly landscapedgardens,thisresidenceappearsstately& exclusive.Stepinside &youwill appreciatetheattentiontodetail,strongdesignelementsandthe fine fittings& fixtures Featuresincludea picture-windowstudy,luxurymastersuite, 2livingareas,a crispwhite kitchen,oFP,rustic floorboards,casualdining,a stunningcentralbathroom,covered treetopdeck &structurallandscapeworksincludingstoneretainingwalls &pathways.

oFFTHEPLAN,SINGLELEVELUNITS

****Significantstampdutysavings**** ownyourownbrand-newhome.Theperfect‘lifestyle’awaits,units2&3 available nowwithoptionof1 or 2garages,singlelevel,easilyaccessible,alfrescolivingwith manageablegardenretreat, alistofinclusionsisavailabletostyleyournewhomewith professionalguidancethroughouttheprocess.Smallfootprintwithfewneighbours, minutestoGembrookTownship,shops,supermarket,cafes,restaurantsand

A PROVEN HILLS BNB IN PRIME GEMBROOK LOCATION

IF you’ve been considering a move toward greater financial independence, this is an opportunity worth exploring. Nestled in the idyllic Dandenong Ranges just over an hour from Melbourne’s CBD, the well-loved Gembrook Cottages offer a charming and established accommodation business in the heart of Gembrook.

Perfectly positioned within easy walking distance of the iconic Puffing Billy Railway, the Gembrook–Emerald Walking Trail, awardwinning restaurants and cafes and the popular local bar, the property attracts visitors seeking a relaxing weekend or midweek escape in the Hills.

The property comprises three beautifully appointed cottages, each thoughtfully styled and fully equipped with four-poster beds, leather lounges, kitchenettes, smart televisions, Wi-Fi and inviting wood heaters, creating warm and memorable guest experiences. Each cottage also offers its own distinct personality and colour palette.

Bluebell Cottage showcases calming blue tones and features a large spa on its private rear deck—an ideal spot to unwind with a glass of champagne while listening to the surrounding nature. Harem Cottage embraces rich earthy tones and includes a striking indoor sunken oval spa. Kookaburra Cottage offers soft pastel hues designed to create a tranquil and uplifting atmosphere.

With a loyal, repeat customer base and strong local reputation, this profitable B&B enjoys consistent year-round demand. Guests are drawn by the region’s natural beauty, abundant wildlife, nearby tracks & rails in Kirth Kiln Regional Park and attractions including Gimbuta World, while the many popular wedding venues in the area provide a steady stream of visitors seeking quality accommodation nearby.

Take advantage of this exciting opportunity. 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. ●

DualDrivewayAccess. Setona fullyfenced1,003sqmwithdualdrivewayaccess,this3/4bedroom,2-bathroomhome offersflexiblefamilylivingwithineasyreachofCockatootownship,schools &publictransport.An undercoverentryleadsto aformallounge,while 2frontbedroomswithbuilt-inrobessitbesidethe dual-accessfamilybathroom.Theopenplankitchen,living &diningareaformstheheartofthe home,featuring askylight,breakfastbar,gasstovetop,dishwasher,cornerpantry &excellentbench space. Astepdownreveals asecondloungewarmedbya woodfire,withgasductedheating throughout.Slidingdoorsopentoanundercoverdeckoverlookingtheprivaterearyard.Themaster bedroomwithwalk-inrobe& updatedensuite &a nearbystudyor4thbedroom.Downstairs,a rumpus &laundrycreate aversatileretreatwithaccesstoundercoveroutdoorentertaining.

SamanthaScott M 0438680032 4 A 2 B

Established& ProfitableLocalMechanicBusiness. Originallyestablishedin1979,JLAutomaticshasbeenprovidingthehighestqualityautomotive repairstoEmerald &thesurroundingareaseversince.JLAutomaticsisyourone-stopshopforrepairs &servicesforallmakes &models,whichcurrentlyprovides awiderangeofservices,including: generalrepairs &service,powersteeringrepairs,manual &automatictransmissionrepairs,tunes onallmakes &models,brakeinspections &repairs,airconditioningrepairs,EFIdiagnosis,injector cleaning &roadworthyreports.Pricedtowalkin& startworkingthisbusinessincludes: •2 xhoists •Workshoptools •Spareparts• Anextensivedatabaseofclients• Thewebsite •Historical averagegrossyearlyturnoverof$400,000+AccessisfromHeroesAvenue,Emerald

FRESHLY UPDATED HILLS RETREAT

POSITIONED in a peaceful and leafy pocket of Belgrave, 65 Kaola Street delivers the perfect blend of charm, comfort and lifestyle with beautifully refreshed interiors, a fantastic entertaining deck and tranquil treetop surrounds. Set amongst the natural beauty the Hills are renowned for, this inviting home presents an excellent opportunity for first home buyers, downsizers or investors seeking a move-in-ready property in a sought-after location.

Inside, the home has been freshly painted throughout and offers a warm, welcoming feel with polished timber floors, a cosy fireplace, ducted heating, split system air conditioning, plenty of natural light and a functional layout designed for easy everyday living. The spacious living area is complemented by large windows that frame the peaceful green outlook, creating a relaxing atmosphere to unwind in.

The updated kitchen has been thoughtfully freshened up with ample storage, generous bench space and a practical layout that flows effortlessly through to the dining and living zones perfect for casual family living or entertaining guests.

Accommodation comprises three comfortable bedrooms, all serviced by a beautifully updated bathroom featuring modern finishes, a bath and separate shower for added convenience.

Stepping outside, the expansive covered decking area is a true highlight of the home, offering the perfect place to entertain yearround while soaking in the serene treetop outlook and peaceful surrounds. Whether enjoying your morning coffee or hosting family and friends, this outdoor space provides a wonderful extension of the home.

Further features include a brand new sealed driveway, carport, under-house storage, separate laundry, tiered backyard with chook pen and a peaceful setting that captures the relaxed lifestyle Belgrave is loved for.

Conveniently located within close proximity to Belgrave township, train station, schools, cafes, walking tracks and local amenities, this refreshed hills retreat offers comfort, privacy and lifestyle in equal measure. ●

Huge day for Bomber pair

By Justin Schwarze

It was a milestone day at Chandler Reserve on Saturday 23 May as Emerald saw two club stalwarts and great mates - captain Jake Pedder and vice captain Brendan Wilson - each play their 150th senior game for the club simultaneously against Powelltown.

And the pair marked the day with some standout performances amidst a massive 202-point thumping of the Towners.

Skipper Pedder seemingly brought his own footy to the game, finishing with ridiculous numbers of 56 disposals, five marks, five tackles and three goals - amassing 252 ranking points.

Wilson was also busy, posting 22 touches, six marks and a goal.The connection and journey has been a long one between the pair, spanning over a decade of playing together.

“We’ve played together since under-10s or 11s,” Pedder reflected.

“We’re the same age and played a lot of junior football together.

“We’ve played all of our senior football together, so it lined up perfectly for the games.

“It was great to share it with him because he’s a great mate of mine.”

In that time, the two won multiple junior flags and a senior premiership in 2023.

And both have been important pieces to the success of the Bombers, with Wilson finishing second in the club best and fairest in 2022…behind Pedder.

Pedder has slotted into one of the league’s most prolific and dangerous midfield groups in the competition and has been a major driving force in Emerald being unbeaten in its last four games.

“At the start of the year, there were a lot of blokes competing for midfield spots because we’ve got a great spread of players in the middle,” the captain said.

“After the first couple of weeks, we changed rotation in the midfield to just be four midfielders to

Trades & Services

try and get a bond going together.

“We really honed in as a midfield four and we’ve got our roles which has really helped.

“I think we’ve got a really good spread of what that midfield is, there’s the ball winners and the ball users in there.

“It’s given a great balance and it was about sorting a few growing pains as we sort our chemistry out and I think that’s solidified over the past couple weeks.

“A big part of that is that Steve Kapahnke is probably the premier ruckman in the comp.

“He’s been playing really, really well which makes our job a lot easier.

“It’s just been chemistry and locking in a solid midfield group that was going to be reliable and going from there.”

Pedder has averaged 31 disposals per game this season, joining elite on-ballers Ewan Wadsworth (35.1 per game) and Jordan Donadel (29.5 per game).

As for Saturday, he was able to dominate around the ground and drift forward, getting on the end of a trio of goals, but he had a team-first mindset as to how he was able to rack up the massive numbers.

“I did say jokingly that because it was my 150th, for the boys to feed me the ball,” Pedder laughed.

“I had a great start to the game with a lot of disposals in the first quarter and I built from there.

“It was a lot of teammates feeding me throughout the day and Kapahnke was on fire on the weekend so him tapping down to me all day really helped.

“A couple of boys giving me the footy all day really helped so I was pretty gassed by the end of the game.

“It was good to have that performance in the 150th, it’s what you really want, but I’m glad I could rise to that occasion but with a lot of help from my teammates on the day, I couldn’t have done it without them.”

Emerald captain Jake Pedder and vice captain Brendan Wilson in the rooms after fantastic performances in game 150. (Supplied)

Rangers return to form

On Saturday afternoon 30 May, Monbulk Rangers travelled to face East Bentleigh, whose senior side currently sits at the bottom of the ladder.

Despite their position, the Rangers knew they could not take anything for granted in a highly competitive league where any side is capable of causing an upset. After seeing their winning streak come to an end with a disappointing draw the previous week, Monbulk were determined to return to winning ways.

The Monbulk Reserves faced a difficult challenge against the East Bentleigh Reserves, who sit at the top of the ladder. Missing several regular players, the Rangers battled hard but were ultimately defeated 4-0. They will be eager to regroup and bounce back in their next outing. The playing surface presented some challenges, with an uneven pitch and a cricket wicket running through the middle causing problems for both sides.

Despite the conditions, Monbulk settled quickly and made the perfect start. From a long ball up the pitch, Lucas Schmidt won a header on the edge of the penalty area before Daniel Biondo found the back of the net to give the visitors an early 1-0 lead. Monbulk continued to dominate possession and doubled their advantage not long after.

Ahren Angulo launched a long throw into the penalty area, where Schmidt got a clever flick on, that looped into the corner of the goal to make it 2-0.

The Rangers controlled much of the first half and looked comfortable, but a lapse in concentration right before the break allowed East Bentleigh back into the contest. A corner was delivered into the box and the home side managed to head home with virtually the last kick of the half, reducing the deficit to 2-1 heading into the interval. Any hopes of an East Bentleigh comeback were quickly extinguished after the break.

Monbulk came out firing in the second half and their relentless high press proved too much for the hosts to handle. East Bentleigh’s defence coughed up the ball to Jack Higgins, who showed great composure to finish and restore Monbulk’s two-goal cushion.

Substitute Brayden Jones then made an immediate impact from the bench. Bringing fresh energy into the attack, Jones scored twice to put the result beyond doubt. An unfortunate East Bentleigh own goal completed the scoring, with Monbulk running out convincing 6-1 winners. It was a big statement victory from the Rangers, who remain undefeated and return to the

Around the region’s football ovals and netball courts

By Armin Richter Football Premier Division

• Seniors: Olinda-Ferny Creek 18.13.121 def Officer 8.12.60; Wandin 14.10.94 def Woori Yallock 8.9.57; Upwey-Tecoma 15.15.105 def Warburton-Millgrove 14.6.90; Monbulk 16.23.119 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 3.6.24; Mt. Evelyn 17.20.122 def Healesville 7.6.48

• Reserves: Officer 17.14.116 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 3.6.24; Wandin 8.11.59 def Woori Yallock 9.4.58; Upwey-Tecoma 24.13.157 def Warburton-Millgrove; 2.3.15; Monbulk 16.9.105 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 3.5.23; Mt. Evelyn 13.13.91 def Healesville 3.2.20

• Under 18 (combined): Upwey-Tecoma 22.12.144 def Alexandra 5.2.32; Pakenham 11.9.75 def Warburton-Millgrove 3.5.23; Healesville 16.10.106 def Seville 2.5.17; Gembrook-Cockatoo 11.10.76 def Monbulk 4.16.40; Officer 17.13.115 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 2.4.16; Wandin 11.9.75 def Woori Yallock 9.7.61; Mt. Evelyn 21.12.138 def Yarra Glen 1.2.8

• Women (Div 1): Upwey-Tecoma 3.10.28 def Warburton-Millgrove 3.3.21; Pakenham 4.4.28 def Healesville 3.2.20; Olinda-Ferny Creek 7.1.43 def Belgrave 3.0.18; Mt. Evelyn bye

• Veterans(Over35-round5): Wandin 9.14.68 def Officer 9.4.58; Olinda-Ferny Creek 8.6.54 def Monbulk 4.9.33; Yarra Glen 15.13.103 def Mt. Evelyn 2.1.13; Belgrave 6.13.49 def UpweyTecoma 4.4.28; Gembrook-Cockatoo bye Division 1

• Seniors: Alexandra 12.11.83 def Belgrave 11.9.75; Pakenham 35.19.225 def Powelltown

1.2.8; Yarra Glen 9.13.67 def Yea 8.9.57; Seville 17.11.113 def Emerald 5.13.43; Yarra Junction bye

• Reserves: Belgrave 8.11.59 def Alexandra 4.3.27; Pakenham 27.17.179 def Powelltown 1.1.7; Yea 23.19.157 def Yarra Glen 1.2.8; Emerald 11.6.72 def Seville 7.4.46; Yarra Junction bye

• Women (Div 2): Wandin 8.16.64 def Woori Yallock 1.0.6; Seville 6.11.47 def Emerald 4.3.27; Officer def Thornton-Eildon (forfeit); Yea 13.19.97 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 0.0.0

Premier Division

• A Grade: Mt. Evelyn 81 def Healesville 27; Warburton-Millgrove 86 def Upwey-Tecoma 16; ROC 41 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 40; Wandin 50 def Woori Yallock 43; Monbulk 82 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 31

• B Grade: Mt. Evelyn 77 def Healesville 22; Warburton-Millgrove 79 def Upwey-Tecoma 20; ROC 76 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 24; Woori Yallock 62 def Wandin 51; Monbulk 67 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 56

• C Grade: Mt. Evelyn 51 def Healesville 5; ROC

54 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 23; Wandin 41 def Woori Yallock 34; Gembrook-Cockatoo 30 def Monbulk 27; Warburton-Millgrove bye

• D Grade: Mt. Evelyn 64 def Healesville 6; ROC 37 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 15; Woori Yallock 46 def Wandin 22; Monbulk 38 def GembrookCockatoo 18; Warburton-Millgrove bye

• Under 17: Mt. Evelyn 62 def Monbulk Maroon 17; ROC Blue 81 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 1; Woori Yallock 53 def Wandin 20; ROC White 22 def Warburton-Millgrove 10; Monbulk Gold 35 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 11

• Under 15: ROC Blue 46 def Pakenham Gold 12; Monbulk Gold 35 def Wandin Blue 18; Monbulk Maroon 41 def ROC White 15; Pakenham Maroon 53 def Woori Yallock 22; Wandin Red bye Division 1

• A Grade: Yarra Glen 57 def Yea 48; Seville 60 def Emerald 36; Belgrave 56 def Alexandra 44; Pakenham 73 def Powelltown 10; Yarra Junction bye

• B Grade: Yarra Glen 50 def Yea 40; Seville 61 def Emerald 30; Belgrave 36 def Alexandra 32; Pakenham 100 def Powelltown 15; Yarra Junction bye

• C Grade: Yea

• D Grade: Yarra Glen 27 def Yea 21; Seville 40 def Emerald 16; Pakenham 53 def

Netball

Monbulk’s Brodie Walker gets a handball away against his former team Gembrook-Cockatoo. (Anthea Heagney)

winners list in emphatic fashion. The result further strengthens their position at the top of the league ladder as they continue to set the pace in the title race. Monbulk now enjoy a two week

break before a massive top-of-the-table clash against Monash Villarreal at home. With both sides firmly in the title picture, Monash will be looking to close the gap on the league leaders,

while the Rangers will be eager to extend their advantage in what promises to be one of the biggest games of the season.

Yahya Yaqobi dribbling up the field. (Supplied).

Ferntree Gully tennis teams deliver winning results

Ferntree Gully Tennis Club enjoyed another busy week of competition, with strong performances from several senior and junior teams.

In the Midweek Eastern Metropolitan Region Ladies’ Tennis Association, Section 6 went down 3-1 to Currawong in a hard-fought contest.

There were plenty of highlights in the Knox District Night Tennis Association.

On Tuesday night, Section 1 recorded a convincing 6-0 victory over Selby.

Thursday Section 7 also enjoyed a dominant performance, defeating Miller Park 5-0.

Section 8 received a win by forfeit from Montrose, while Section 5 unfortunately had to forfeit to Upwey South.

In the Ferntree Gully and District Ladies’ Tennis Association, Section 4 was unable to field

a team and forfeited to Parker Reserve.

The Waverley Tennis Association teams showed some strong form.

Section A1 delivered a comprehensive 6-0 win over HE Parker Reserve Blue, while Section A7 defeated Legend Park 4-2.

Section A8 faced a tough challenge, going down 6-0 to Knox City Gold.

Ferntree Gully’s junior teams produced some excellent results in Eastern Region Tennis competition.

Rubbers 25 defeated Koonung Park Blue 5-1, while JOSD 8 recorded a perfect 6-0 victory over Croydon.

JDC 3 also enjoyed success, defeating Mooroolbark Heights 3-0.

Other junior teams faced strong opposition.

Rubbers 31 went down 4-2 to Upwey South, while JDC 2 lost 3-0 to Upwey South. In one of the closest matches of the round, Rubbers 34 finished level with Mt Evelyn at three games all.

However, Mt Evelyn claimed the match after winning two rubbers to one.

The club’s popular All Abilities Tennis program also enjoyed another successful session.

Players participated in a highly competitive round of the much-loved “cricket” game, after some strong match play.

Participants are continuing to build their skills and confidence, with many now practising how to score their own matches.

A big thank you to Head Coach Mark for his continued guidance to our players at all levels.

Hawks record big wins

By Armin Richter

Monbulk were at home against GembrookCockatoo for the latest installment in the Ramage Family Trophy contest, which was first fought for in 1995, making this one of the longest running club trophy competitions in the Outer East. Monbulk were also holding their annual Life Member and Hall Of Fame lunch which saw two new life members inducted - Andrew Stockx and Colin James. The club wore black armbands after the recent passing of Glenn ‘Foxy’ Ferris, the 1976 club senior Best & Fairest, and Mark ‘Putter’ Mannens, president of the junior club 20082013.

Football

Seniors

After a recent lean run against some flag contenders, the Hawks were desperate to get their season back on track. Another loss would put them into relegation contention while a win would put finals back on the agenda.

Monbulk were ferocious in their attack on the ball and constantly pressuring the Brooker’s which resulted in many turnovers. Inaccuracy prevented the Hawks from making it a complete rout as they dominated the second half but only had a return of 8.16 to 3 behinds for that period, notching a valuable 95 point win. Riley Finlay played his 50th match.

Monbulk 16.23.119 def Gembrook-Cockatoo

3.6.24

• Best: Nicholas Wall, Max Thornton, Will Henderson, Joshua Dawson, Riley Finlay, Thomas Berman

• Goals: Lochlan Beecroft 2, Josh Wentworth 2, Max Thornton 2, Taylor Joyce 2, Caleb Quirk 2, Lachlan Smith 2, Joel Wensley 1, Nicholas Wall 1, Thomas Berman 1, Patrick Snoxell 1

Reserves

The Reserves also needed a win and were to be far too accomplished for their Gembrook opponents. With great run, composure and execution, the Hawks delivered a strong win which sees them return to the Top Five on percentage.

Monbulk 16.9.105 def Gembrook-Cockatoo

3.5.23

• Best: Noah Rutherford, Finn Horsfall, Callan Brinkmann, Johnathon HEVERN, Nicholas Heron, Dale Ross

• Goals: Callan Brinkmann 3, Johnathon Hevern 2, Daniel Banks 2, Aaron Smith 2, Dale Ross 2, Steven Shankly 2, Noah Rutherford 1, Nicholas Heron 1, Jacob Defina 1

Under 18s

The depleted Under 18s battled hard but were comprehensively beaten by a bigger Gembrook side who were strong in the air. The Hawks had their chances but inaccuracy cost them any chance of applying scoreboard pressure as they only had one less scoring shot.

Monbulk 4.16.40 def by Gembrook-Cockatoo

11.10.76

• Best: Thomas Hill, Riley Broadbent, Finley Ede, Isaac Mullinder, Ryder Koelewyn, Blake Nicholson

• Goals: Riley Broadbent 2, Ryder Koelewyn 1, Darcy Spry 1

Veterans

Playing their third game in three weeks the veterans had a number of players out due to strains and aches. Facing a determined and well drilled Olinda team, who were dominant in contested marking, saw the Hawks register their first loss for the season. Monbulk dropped from second to fourth as they will now have two weeks to prepare for a big clash with Gembrook.

Monbulk 4.9.33 def by Olinda-Ferny Creek

8.6.54

• Best: Sean Arnott, Shannon Koole, Dean White, John Hibgame, Jarrett Anderson, Michael Langworthy

• Goals: Shannon Koole 2, Michael Langworthy 1, Jacob Wilcox 1

Netball

A Grade

The netballers were also looking for redemption and found it in the form of a 51 goal win against Gembrook. The match was set up with a 27-2 first quarter. Great ball movement combined with a potent goal shooter and a tight defence meant that Monbulk solidified third spot. Nicole Macdowell played a great game in her 150th appearance for the Hawks.

Monbulk 82 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 31

• Best: Grace Scott-Thomas, Nicole Macdowell, Peri Reid

• Goals: Peri Reid 66, Jorja Wragg 12, Chloe Baker 4

B Grade

Starting the day just a game ahead of their op-

ponents, Monbulk went hard but were unable to shake Gembrook until a big 20-12 final term. Catherine Bransika made her club debut as Monbulk remain in the Five on percentage.

Monbulk 67 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 56

• Best: Chloe Baker, Catherine Braniska, Elizabeth Cutting

• Goals: Chloe Baker 50, Dayna Walsham 17

C Grade

Monbulk could have notched their first win for the year when they held a two shot lead at the final change however they were unable to maintain their advantage and went down narrowly.

Monbulk 27 def by Gembrook-Cockatoo 30

• Best: Maddy Buckland, Candice Freeling, Laura Del Biondo

• Goals: Maddy Buckland 23, Grace Sands 3, Macy Giling 1

D Grade

The Hawks recorded a good win over Gembrook by 20 goals. They remain in sixth place but just percentage off fourth behind Wandin and Warburton. Caitlin Utting played her 50th game for Monbulk.

Monbulk 38 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 18

• Best: Ella Flynn, Emiley Asling, Michelle Steele

• Goals: Jamie Sands 24, Ella Flynn 8, Emiley Asling 6

Under 17s

The two Monbulk teams had different fortunes on the day. Monbulk Gold controlled their match from quarter time as they cling on to fifth

place. Bridie McCormick performed well in her 50th match for the club. Monbulk Maroon travelled to Mt. Evelyn to meet one of the flag favourites but came up short against the Rovers. Monbulk Gold 35 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 11

• Best: Stevie Mullinder, Kaia Stewart, Bridie McCormick

• Goals: Summer Kuppers 22, Kaitlyn Summers 13

Monbulk Maroon 17 def by Mt. Evelyn 62

• Best: Isla Stubbs, Shiloh Koole, Chelsea Ferguson

• Goals: Chelsea Ferguson 14, Isla Stubbs 3 Under 15s

Monbulk Gold travelled to Wandin and maintained their unbeaten record. Their win allowed Monbulk Maroon to climb to fourth, ahead of Wandin Blue, after they proved to be good for ROC White.

Monbulk Gold 35 def Wandin Blue 18

• Best: Daphne Mitchell, Ria Greenaway, Dina Tsetsos

• Goals: Eden Murphy 23, Amelia Magarry 9, Ria Greenaway 3

Monbulk Maroon 41 def ROC White 15

• Best: Jessica Verheyen, Isabelle Kos, Maeve Rademaker

• Goals: Isabelle Kos 36, Jessica Verheyen 4, Grace Gaunt 1

Sarah with Prestige Tennis Academy head coach Mark Brodam. (Supplied)

Nicole Macdowell played her 150th game for Monbulk against Gembrook on Saturday. (Armin Richter)

They are successful in local business... but what do our Tip-Stars know about Footy? Follow them every week and give them the feedback they deserve...

1. What emoji do you use the most? Thumbs up

2. If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you bring?

Multi Tool, Tarp, Satellite phone

3. What is the most interesting place you have ever visited?

The Great Barrier Reef

4. What was your first car? Did you name it?

Mitsubishi Magna – Didn’t name it

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Somewhere quiet

6. What is the most unusual food you have ever tried, did you like it?

Emu Burger – it was ok

7. If you had any super power for a week, what would it be, and how would you use it?

Shapeshifter – It would be interesting to see other peoples lives from their point of view.

8. What movie title matches your job role Departures

9. What is the craziest thing you believed as a child? You would get square eyes from watching too much tv.

10. If you could have a conversation with your pet, what would you talk about?

I would ask cats if they were able to talk to each other or if it was just all body language

NAME: Micah Calheiros