Mail - Mt Evelyn Star Mail - 14th July 2026

Running for Mace

Croydon father Daniel Fringuelli has transformed his health, shedding 28 kilograms in six months to prepare for the Run Melbourne half marathon on Sunday 19 July.

Daniel is running as an ambassador for Variety – the Children’s Charity Victoria in honour of his seven-yearold son, Mace, who is autistic and non-verbal.

Variety provides critical support and sensory-friendly experiences for children living with disabilities.

Having already raised over $6000 with strong community backing, Daniel aims to reach a $7000 target.

Friends and family will join him on race day, tackling their own running challenges.

Turn to page 11 for more

Shortlist mystery

By Mikayla van Loon

Uncertainty continues to surround the future of an urban aquatic and leisure centre for the Yarra Ranges, three years after the closure of Kilsyth’s Centenary Pool.

Local advocates are making a final push to save the former Kiloran Park site before the council finalises its plans.

While the Yarra Ranges Council’s Aquatic and Leisure Strategy identifies Lilydale as the preferred location due to population growth, the council’s 2025–29 Action Plan set a June 2026 deadline to shortlist potential sites, with a busi-

ness case expected by mid-2027.

Project delivery is not slated to begin until 2029, pending secured funding.

Campaigners from Rebuild Our Kilsyth Pool argue that Kiloran Park remains the most practical and central option. Lead campaigner Janis Floyd highlighted that the council-owned land already possesses necessary infrastructure, public transport access, and site suitability.

“Kiloran Park is ideally situated... right there and available,” Ms Floyd said, adding that finding a new site in Lilydale could prove unnecessarily complex compared to using existing

municipal assets.

The council’s strategy notes that Kilsyth’s proximity to neighbouring Maroondah facilities, such as Aquahub Croydon, creates overlapping catchments.

However, campaign member Chris Dowling expressed scepticism over the new Lilydale facility, warning that delays leave the community without essential swimming infrastructure.

Ms Dowling emphasised that reduced access to pools threatens local swim clubs and water safety education amid rising statewide drowning statistics.

that the council is testing options to support community recreation but is not yet ready to announce shortlisted sites.

While Lilydale remains the primary target, the strategy allows for alternative urban locations if no suitable Lilydale site is found.

Campaigners confirmed they will make one final effort to advocate for Kiloran Park, but will conclude their campaign if the site is excluded from the final shortlist.

Turn to page 5 for the full story

Yarra Ranges Council built environment and infrastructure director Anita Curnow stated

Daniel Fringuelli and his son Mace inspire each other every day. (Stewart Chambers: 562971)

Strong rebuke over solo patrols

The wife of a Launching Place cop who was murdered in 2005 has strongly rebuked the Victoria Police’s potential plans to reinstate solo patrols. It came after reporting by the Herald Sun on 7 July revealed police were considering reversing a ban on “one-up” highway patrol shifts

Tina Hogarth-Clarke’s husband, Senior Constable Tony Clarke, was murdered in Launching Place while working one-up in 2005.

Victoria Police assistant commissioner Mick Hermans said the changes would see highway patrol members work one-up but be deployed in “close proximity” to another member to support “greater visibility” of members on roads.

“The health and safety of our members remains the number one priority of Victoria Police,” Mr Hermans said.

But Ms Hogarth-Clarke slammed the idea and said Victoria Police had forgotten the lessons of her husband’s death.

“There is no doubt in my mind that my husband SC Tony Clarke would be alive today if he

was working two-up the night he was murdered on the side of Warburton Highway Launching Place in April 2005,” she said to the Herald Sun.

Five years later, coroner Kim Parkinson’s report into the death of Senior Constable Tony Clarke found the one-up patrol policy had contributed towards his death.

“I am satisfied that solo police intercepts of drivers in isolated areas and particularly at night are unsafe,” Ms Parkinson said at the time.

But it was in 2015 when solo patrols were finally banned off the back of a planned terrorist attack against a police officer.

When Mr Clarke died, it sent the Yarra Ranges reeling with grief.

He had intercepted a vehicle and was about to administer a breath test when at some point, the driver managed to gain possession of Mr Clarke’s gun.

The driver, a Croydon man named Mark Bailey, then fatally shot Mr Clarke and stole the police car. He then left the scene, before turning the gun on himself.

Doctor who filmed staff in toilets to face his victims

By Tara Cosoleto, AAP

A junior doctor from Croydon who secretly filmed staff in hospital toilets will come faceto-face with his victims after pleading guilty to 13 offences.

Ryan Yi Cho, 29, entered the pleas in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday 9 July, with his case now uplifted to the Victorian County Court.

Athree-daypleahearinghasbeensetaside for November, where his victims will be given the chance to read statements to the court, detailing the affects of his crimes.

Cho admitted concealing a phone in a mesh bag inside staff toilets at the Austin Hospital, the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

Police say the material found on the phone showed hundreds of staff members using the toilet or shower facilities, with their genital and anal areas exposed.

Thousands of files were created in 2024 and 2025, and were categorised into different folders referencing each of the three hospitals.

Detectives also located more than 3000 images of a woman Cho stalked between October 2020 and September 2021.

Cho was initially charged and remanded in custody in July 2025 on five charges, but he successfully applied for bail in the Supreme Court in August.

In the ensuing months, police laid hundreds of additional charges, with the total reaching 910.

But after a plea deal with prosecutors, Cho on Thursday pleaded guilty to 13 rolled-up offences, including producing an intimate image, installing a device and stalking.

Magistrate Michelle Mykytowycz found the evidence was sufficient to support a conviction and she ordered the case be uplifted to the Victorian County Court.

Cho only spoke during the brief hearing to confirm his guilt and that he understood his continuing bail conditions.

They included not being allowed to attend a hospital unless there is an emergency.

Ms Hogarth-Clarke said to the Herald Sun her husband’s death was preventable.

“I wouldn’t have been left to raise our baby son on my own and he would not have had to grow up never knowing his dad,” she said.

Mr Hermans said Victoria Police would first engage with the workforce on the change and consult any occupational health and safety assessments.

“Any potential changes will also be preceded by a trial period within the State Highway Patrol involving a pilot which will allow for further refinement if required prior to any broader application,” he said.

“A highly visible police presence provides a significant general deterrence and will lead to less road trauma.”

Mr Hermans said the change was not because of vacancy numbers as the same number of police would be deployed.

The Police Association Victoria’s (TPAV) website’s count of current police officers totals 15,555, with a required number of 17,020 – a gap of just under 1500 members.

Cho will face the County Court on 23 November for his plea hearing.

His registration as a medical practitioner remains suspended and he cannot practise anywhere in Australia.

Cho waited inside the court building for more than four hours on Thursday to avoid reporters and cameras waiting outside.

He has repeatedly covered his face behind masks, sunglasses and caps at each of his court hearings.

A Royal Melbourne Hospital spokeswoman told AAP they could not comment on the case but the hospital’s focus remained on supporting its people and their wellbeing.

Peter Mac was also providing support to its staff, a spokesman said.

“This has been a distressing period and one that has had a lasting impact on many staff at Peter Mac,” the statement to AAP read. Austin Health declined to comment.

■1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

■National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028

A memorial plaque on the Warburton Rail Trail commemorates Mr Clarke’s death. (Neil Follett, Monument Australia)

By Oliver Winn

A trainee surgeon has admitted hiding recording devices in staff toilets in two major hospitals. (Con Chronis/AAP PHOTOS)

Car goes up in flames in Kilsyth

By Mikayla van Loon

A young driver’s “pride and joy” has gone up in flames in Kilsyth, sending a plume of smoke into the air.

Kilsyth resident John Phillips was sitting at Allan’s Bakery having a coffee at around 2.30pm on Wednesday 8 July when a car made several loud noises turning onto Mt Dandenong Road.

A few moments later, the Holden Commodore had self-ignited, engulfing the interior in flames.

Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) firefighters responded after receiving a report via Triple Zero (000).

“Firefighters arrived on scene within five minutes to find one car fully involved with fire,” a spokesperson said.

“FRV crews donned breathing apparatus and extinguished the blaze.”

The fire was deemed under control within 10 minutes.

Mr Phillips said once firefighters had arrived and put out the flames, he went to speak with the young couple from the car.

“He said he’d just turned off from Colchester Road onto Mount Dandenong Road, heading east, and he just said he heard a pop and a bit of a bang, and his steering sort of froze up; he started to smell smoke, so he got out, and I think you can see the rest of that story,” Mr Phillips said.

“He said it was his pride and joy, that he’s put a lot of money into the car.”

The car was destroyed by the blaze, but its occupants made it out safely.

“Everyone just watched it go up pretty quick, and a lot of people were worried it was going to explode or send debris, but it didn’t. It did do a lot of pops and bangs,” Mr Phillips said.

“We feel sorry for the young ones, and we express our sorrow to them. It’s an ordeal for them now with no car.”

The FRV spokesperson confirmed that Victoria Police was on scene and the incident was handed to them.

Police confirmed it was a non-suspicious fire and were on scene for traffic control and to support the organisation of towing the vehicle.

IN BRIEF

Hoon drivers targeted

Thirteen vehicles have been taken off the road after police targeted hoon driving in the Yarra Valley and Mount Donna Buang over the weekend.

Yarra Ranges Highway Patrol officers joined Warburton police for Operation Bottle on Friday and Saturday, focusing on drivers allegedly engaging in dangerous driving in the popular mountain and tourist areas.

The operation resulted in 13 vehicles being defected, meaning owners must fix the faults, have the vehicles inspected and obtain roadworthy certificates before they can legally drive them again.

Drivers also face fines for detected offences.

Among the vehicles stopped were two that had their driver’s airbags removed – a modification police say could have serious consequences if the vehicles were involved in a crash.

Police said dangerous driving and unsafe vehicles put not only those taking part at risk, but also other motorists, cyclists and visitors using the roads.

Officers have warned the operation will continue, with police taking a zero-tolerance approach to hoon driving and unsafe vehicles across the Yarra Ranges.

Safe phones during AusAlert

For women and children experiencing domestic violence – if you have a hidden safe phone, you are recommended to turn it off, give it to a safe person, or switch it to airplane mode on 27 July at 12pm.

A new national warning system, called the AusAlert test, will send a safety alarm to all phones at this time, even if the volume is turned down or the phone is on silent/do not disturb.

For more information, visit: ausalert.gov.au

Properties raided

Police raided several Yarra Valley properties with links to a former bikie gang boss and exCFMEU delegate on Thursday, 2 July.

The properties were linked to an industrial relations consultancy set up by a former Mongols gang boss, as revealed by an article in The Age.

It came after detectives from Taskforce Hawk executed five search warrants as part of an investigation into a series of alleged financial offences.

Residential addresses in Wandin East and Seville were raided alongside properties in Officer South, Richmond and the Melbourne CBD.

“Police are investigating financial based offending and false accounting by a company which is believed to be acting as a debt collection company operating under the guise of industrial relations,” police said in a statement.

No arrests were made.

Detectives seized a number of items including financial documents, a number of mobile phones as well as laptops and other electronic devices.

Operation Hawk was established in July 2024 to specifically target criminal behaviour linked to the construction industry and transitioned to Taskforce Hawk in June 2025.

Fire Rescue Victoria responded within five minutes to extinguish the blaze.

Flames engulfed the Holden Commodore almost instantly. (Supplied)

90-day suspension issued

The Victorian Early Childhood Regulatory Authority (VECRA) has immediately suspended the operations of Gabow Family Day Care Pty Ltd, forcing the closure of 45 homes across Victoria, including a hub in Mooroolbark, after a litany of compliance issues created an immediate risk to children’s safety.

The 90-day shutdown marks the first time VECRA has used its immediate suspension powers since the watchdog was established on 1 January 2026.

Gabow operates family day care residences across 15 outer Melbourne suburbs, including Hoppers Crossing, Epping, Lalor, Craigieburn, and Werribee. The closure of the Mooroolbark centre will force local parents to scramble for alternative arrangements.

Victorian Early Childhood Regulator Wendy Steendam said the authority had no choice but to step in.

”Everyone expects providers to follow the National Legislation. When VECRA finds a provider is not meeting requirements, we will take swift action to ensure children are kept safe,” she said.

“Immediately suspending a provider is a decision which impacts the childcare arrangements of parents and caregivers, but we make this decision because we know they wouldn’t want us to compromise on safety. It was clear to VECRA that Gabow has failed the children and families who rely on its services, as well as the educators who worked for it.”

The crackdown began in May 2026, when VECRA officers teamed up with the Australian Government Department of Education for joint inspections. They issued an Emergency Action Notice on 11 June after discovering four Gabow educators lacked the required qualifications.

A deeper investigation uncovered 23 further breaches of National Law and Regulations across Gabow’s network. The failures spanned critical safety areas including unsecured hazardous materials, unsafe fencing and furniture, inadequate staff training, and unapproved child transport. Under the National Law, home-based childcare providers are strictly required to ensure the safety of the premises, complete background checks on all residents in the home, and maintain properly trained educators. VECRA found Gabow fell short across the board.

Ms Steendam issued a blunt warning to the rest of the sector.

“Family day care providers are on notice. You must ensure your educators and their residences are compliant, and you must provide appropriate governance and leadership to your staff. If

you don’t, we will take action.” Gabow has been ordered to immediately notify all enrolled families in writing that they can no longer provide care. Affected families look-

ing for alternative childcare options during the 90-day suspension can find resources via the Starting Blocks website (startingblocks.gov.au) or Care For Kids (careforkids.com.au).

Fair Work Ombudsman sues G8 Education for underpayments

By Callum Ludwig

The Fair Work Ombudsman has announced legal action against the embattled early-childhood education provider G8 Education, which runs for-profit centres in Melbourne’s outer-east.

G8 Education operates childcare centres in Healesville, Boronia, Croydon, Chirnside Park and Mooroolbark.

It follows a nightmarish last year for G8 Education, who were one of the employers of the alleged child sex abuser Joshua Brown and also suspended operations at 40 of its centres across the country in April this year.

A G8 Education spokesperson said as they previously announced in December 2020, following a proactive review of award and legislative requirements, G8 Education identified a number of inadvertent non-compliance issues.

“G8 Education immediately self-reported to the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) and initiated a full remediation program,” they said.

“The program is designed to ensure all affected team members are compensated in full for any underpayments, including interest and superannuation.

“G8 Education has been working proactively with the FWO since December 2020 and has consistently complied with all FWO requests and directions.”

As part of the action, the FWO is seeking compensation of more than $2 million combined for more than 1400 workers, alleging that G8 Education underpaid employees’ minimum rate and overtime entitlements, underpaid some employees engaged as trainees and failed to pay a first aid allowance to some employees.

The G8 Education spokesperson said to date, G8 Education has paid approximately $41 million in compensation to impacted employees and will remediate any further identified underpayments.

“G8 Education remains committed to working with the FWO to reach an appropriate outcome,” they said.

“Since the issues were identified in 2020, G8 Education has strengthened its internal controls to ensure that team members are correctly paid. Appropriate provisions for remediation payments and penalties have been included in G8 Education’s financial accounts since the issue was identified.

“G8 Education apologises unreservedly to affected team members.”

All affected employees were either children’s services employees or support workers, including some juniors aged under 20.

Fair Work Ombudsman Anna Booth said the alleged conduct was disappointing.

“It is completely unacceptable for large, well-resourced corporate employers to allegedly underpay hard-working childcare workers’ basic minimum entitlements,” she said.

“We have been saying for years that large corporate employers need to place a higher priority on ensuring they pay their employees’ lawful entitlements.”

G8 Education’s local centres are the Croydon World of Learning, Headstart Early Learning Centre Croydon, Community Kids Chirnside Park Early Education Centre, Great Beginnings Boronia and Steel Street Children’s Centre (Healesville).

Employers and employees can visit fairwork. gov.au or call the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 for free advice and assistance. An interpreter service is available on 13 14 50.

“Any workers with concerns about their pay or entitlements should contact us for free advice and assistance. They can also contact their union if they are a member.”

A Mooroolbark family daycare has been shut down for 90 days as part of a larger investigation into a provider’s compliance. (File)

Fair Work Ombudsman Anna Booth. (Supplied)

Aquatic future shrouded

By Mikayla van Loon

Unanswered questions still shroud the future of an aquatic and leisure centre for the urban part of the Yarra Ranges.

Kilsyth pool advocacy campaigners have spent the last three years since the Centenary Pool’s closure pushing for Kiloran Park to remain a plausible site for an aquatic centre.

It comes after the Yarra Ranges Council’s Aquatic and Leisure Strategy identified that “based on population growth and catchment data, the preferred location for this facility is Lilydale”

The council’s action plan 2025-29 set a 30 June 2026 deadline for establishing a “shortlist of site locations and facility components” , with a business case to be completed by June 2027.

Rebuild Our Kilsyth Pool lead campaigner Janis Floyd said a quick search using an AI tool, asking where the urban demographic centre of the Yarra Ranges was, pinpointed Mooroolbark.

“Kiloran Park is ideally situated; it’s really in the middle of the demographic centre,” she said.

“(It) is obviously big enough for a pool, because it’s had three pools there before. It is councilowned land, so they don’t have to buy the land. Hawthory Road is a long straight road, so elderly people can just drive down the road and make a turn...there is a bus that runs along Hawthory Road with a bus stop right outside the pool.

“It’s a bit of a warren in Lilydale, but Kiloran Park is right there and available.”

The aquatic strategy noted that because of the proximity of nearby Maroondah Council-operated pools, Kilsyth was not an ideal location for an aquatic facility.

“The location of the facility on the border of the Yarra Ranges results in significant overlapping and competing population catchments with Aquahub Croydon,” the strategy reads.

Ms Floyd said, however, “the only pools that you can really compare apples with apples were Aquanation and Knox with a 50-metre indoor heated open all year pool”

Former Kilsyth aqua aerobics participant Chris Dowling, who joined as one of the key members of the Rebuild Our Kilsyth Pool campaign and Kiloran Park stakeholder group, said with an estimated cost of $90 million for a Lilydale aquatic and leisure facility, “I can’t see it ever coming to fruition”

“We’ve made it quite clear all along that we are not here opposing an aquatic hub, that will be a great benefit to everybody in Lilydale and surrounds,” she said.

“We’re asking for something totally different, a place for swimmers and families. A beautiful community area.”

Ms Floyd said similarly that not once has the group denied the need to replace the Kilsyth pool because of its ageing infrastructure, but it left an entire demographic without easy access.

“We’re not denying it was old, but it was past its prime. However, that said, it could have stayed open for the last three years, and up to the point where they do have a plan for a new site, and they’re starting to dig a hole for the new

site,” she said.

“It’s all very well to pull it out of the ground and everything, but you really have to have the replacement ready to go.”

The council’s action plan estimates that once the business case is finalised and potential private funding sources have been engaged, by the end of June 2029 it will “initiate project delivery - pending secured funding”

Yarra Ranges Council built environment and infrastructure director Anita Curnow said while the council continued to develop the business case for an urban aquatic facility, it couldn’t divulge shortlisted locations.

“The aim is to test options, costs and benefits of providing a centrally located and accessible facility, supporting community participation in recreation and active lifestyles,” she said.

“Council is not yet in a position to report back to the community on progress with the search for a suitable site in Lilydale.

“We understand that there is a lot of interest in this important work and we look forward to updating the community at the appropriate time.”

While Ms Curnow pointed to the aquatic strategy’s preference for a new facility to be constructed in Lilydale, the strategy also states that “if no suitable site can be located in Lilydale, other locations within the urban area should be considered”

Ms Floyd conceded that if Kiloran Park was not listed as a possible site, the campaign and advocacy would cease.

“From the Rebuilding the Kilsyth Pool, which is our campaign, if Kiloran Park is not on the short list, then our campaign will close,” she said.

“If they’ve decided to build it someplace else, then our campaign will close, and that’s it.”

Ms Dowling said, however, they were contemplating “one last attempt” to push the Kilsyth site as the preferred and ideal location.

“They still don’t have a site; they’ve not been able to attract any business plans to help finance, so they have nothing. They can make a decision on a site, which will be very interesting,” she said.

“One of our main arguments all the time has been, you own the site, it’s plenty big enough, it has a huge car park, which they only resurfaced maybe six years ago. So, it’s in really good condition. The whole place is fenced. The power is on, the gas, and all the services are there.”

The alternative, Ms Dowling said, was a continued decrease in access to swimming lessons and competitive swimming, after the cessation of the Lilydale Swimming Club.

“If we don’t continue our fight for a 50-metre pool, where do swimmers go, where do the swimming kids go?

“We’ve been looking at a lot of Life Saving Victoria’s information, and they’re broadly concerned at the moment with the number of drownings.

“But there’s becoming less and less places to learn to swim, which, after all, is what a swimming pool’s main objective is in the first place.”

The deflated Kilsyth Centenary Pool dome. (Supplied)

TAC nightmares revealed

By Gabriella Vukman

In a country with universal healthcare, Australians often assume life-changing medical treatment will be there when it is needed. But for Healesville resident Tamara Tesseyman and her son Gus, accessing the care recommended by their treating specialists has become a battle lasting over a decade.

More than 12 years after she and her fouryear-old son Gus suffered catastrophic leg injuries when they were struck by a car while walking into Bunnings at Chirnside Park, Ms Tesseyman is still fighting Victoria’s Transport Accident Commission (TAC) for treatment recommended by medical professionals.

With her son in need of ongoing surgery to address growth-plate and other structural damage to his leg, Ms Tesseyman said the TAC system has become an obstruction preventing herself and her son from receiving the care they need.

“We have contacted surgeons because my son needs surgery this year, and we have been told that they don’t deal with the TAC,” Ms Tesseyman said.

“I also got a letter on 1 January from my son’s new case manager saying the TAC would no longer take responsibility for his left leg, which was the leg that was crushed in the crash.”

“We can’t access the services that we need because the TAC makes it so difficult.”

Now with a Victorian parliamentary inquiry examining the TAC, Ms Tesseyman is among a growing number of clients speaking publicly about their experiences.

The Australian Medical Association of Victoria (AMA) also made a submission to the Inquiry arguing that the TAC’s administrative, payment, billing and medico-legal processes have become unnecessarily burdensome and unpredictable, discouraging clinician participation and delaying patients’ access to timely care.

The AMA highlighted delayed and unclear payments, burdensome approval processes, routine use of medico-legal assessments, and fraud and billing integrity measures that it says are applied too broadly, resulting in prolonged reviews and payment delays for legitimate providers.

It also argued that inadequate fee settings, inconsistent billing practices, including refusal to reimburse some legitimate pre-operative consultations, and poor coordination with schemes such as the NDIS, make TAC work financially and administratively unsustainable for many clinicians.

Ms Tesseyman was told by her son’s therapists that medical professionals are not guaranteed to get paid by the TAC and that the commission pays significantly less than the market rate.

“A surgeon has to make a decision whether to take on a client that doesn’t know if the TAC will pay the fees, or to take on a client that knows they can pay all of the fees,” Ms Tasseyman said.

“Will a person not get the care they require or the best possible care they can get because the TAC won’t pay the hospital for services they are supposed to be paying for?”

Ms Tesseyman did not expect her devastating road accident in 2013 to evolve into an ongoing struggle with the TAC, leaving her family fighting the lasting effects of catastrophic injuries, alongside battling the system designed to support them.

“I am just lucky that I can speak up,” she said.

“I have seen what happens to people with cognitive disabilities who don’t understand the system.”

“People fall through the cracks. People could die. It’s not being hyperbolic. That is just reality.’

While the TAC process seemed straightforward in the early days after her accident, for Ms Tesseyman and her son, that impression quickly changed.

“The first 90 days, everything was paid for pretty easily,” Ms Tesseyman said.

“But it wasn’t long before they started rejecting treatments”

Remembering her first phone call with the TAC vividly, Ms Tesseyman said after describing extensive reconstructive surgery involving muscle transfers, skin grafts, metal rods and permanent nerve damage, her injury was brushed off as “a broken leg.”

“It was pretty upsetting,” she said.

“My leg had to be completely reconstructed.”

“To hear it described like that made me think the TAC should know how to speak to people who have just been through catastrophic trauma.”

According to Ms Tesseyman, as time went on, the TAC progressively stopped funding services recommended by her treating practitioners including physiotherapy, exercise physiology, home assistance and more recently, psychological treatment.

Most recently, Ms Tesseyman said the TAC delayed approving a replacement ankle-foot orthosis despite detailed recommendations from her treating orthotist, leaving Ms Tesseyman without walking aid when her original brace failed.

“I couldn’t leave the house because I couldn’t walk,” she said.

After eight weeks of waiting for approval, Ms Tessyman contacted local media.

“The day the article came out was the day the approval came through,” she said.

For Ms Tesseyman, the experience reinforced what she believes has become an unfortunate pattern.

“You seem to only get what you need once you become a problem.”

“The only way to put pressure on them is to go to politicians or to the media.”

Living with permanent mobility impairment caused by severe muscle loss and foot drop, requiring ankle-foot orthosis to walk safely, without regular physiotherapy, Ms Tesseyman said maintaining mobility has become increasingly difficult.

“I can’t lift my leg by myself, so there is no way I can do all of the exercises on my own.”

For Ms Tesseyman, one of the most distressing experiences came after successfully appealing for a small number of additional therapy sessions.

To receive them, she was required to sign an agreement preventing future claims for physiotherapy related to the same injury.

“I ended up having to sign away my rights to physiotherapy for that injury forever,” she said.

The experience, combined with post-traumatic stress disorder, left her withdrawing from public life.

“I don’t think I left the house for a year.”

Despite struggling with her own health issues, Ms Tesseyman’s greatest concern is now her son.

“We don’t want Gus to have to fight for his healthcare forever.”

Ms Tesseyman is an administrator of an independent online support group for TAC clients.

The group, which began in early 2024 and grew steadily throughout 2024, became a forum for injured Victorians to share experiences of delayed treatment, payment disputes and difficulties navigating the scheme.

Through that network, she said she has heard repeated accounts of people struggling to access wheelchairs, home modifications, rehabilitation equipment and psychological support.

“I know people who have bought their own wheelchairs because they couldn’t get approval.”

“I know people paying for modifications to their cars because they can’t drive without them,” she said.

Those shared experiences eventually led a number of TAC clients to approach politicians, and in early 2026, members began organising collectively, encouraging claimants to document their experiences and raise concerns with Members of Parliament.

Ms Tesseyman and other group members met with Victorian MP David Limbrick, who subsequently moved for a parliamentary inquiry into the TAC.

Following a coordinated campaign by claim-

ants to contact MPs and share their experiences, the Legislative Council voted in February 2026 to establish the inquiry.

When the inquiry called for submissions in March, members of the group helped other claimants prepare submissions by sharing information, answering questions and developing templates.

Many also attended the public hearings in June, where injured Victorians, stakeholder organisations and the TAC gave evidence.

The TAC was contacted for comment and said it has already introduced significant reforms to improve client experiences and address many of the issues raised during the parliamentary inquiry.

Head of Clients at TAC, Kath Gobbi, said the organisation remained focused on supporting injured Victorians while ensuring treatment decisions were evidence-based.

“We are committed to supporting the recovery and wellbeing of every TAC client, and that means making treatment decisions based on clinical evidence and what will deliver the best long-term outcomes.”

Ms Gobbi said the TAC had implemented a range of changes over the past two years and welcomed the parliamentary inquiry.

“We have made a range of improvements over the past two years to address the issues raised in the inquiry and we look forward to the committee’s report and recommendations for further improvement.”

The TAC said it funded almost $1.9 billion in treatment, rehabilitation, benefits and compensation last year.

Of more than 100,000 treatment requests assessed during the period, 70 per cent were decided within 10 days, 92 per cent within 30 days, and 95.8 per cent were approved or partially approved.

According to the commission, relatively few treatment decisions proceeded to review.

Of more than 100,000 treatment requests, around 3200 were challenged through informal reviews, disputes or applications to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

Of those reviews that were resolved, the TAC said 95 per cent resulted in the original decision being upheld or settled by compromise, while five per cent were overturned.

The TAC said it can only fund treatments that meet the requirements of the Transport Accident Act, including that they relate to injuries sustained in a transport accident, are clinically justified, represent reasonable use of public funds and are expected to improve a client’s rehabilitation or independence.

The organisation said feedback from clients had informed its six-year Make Every Day Matter reform strategy, launched in late 2024, which it says has already reduced wait times, improved dispute resolution and enhanced customer service.

It also highlighted improvements to payment systems, shorter call wait times, a streamlined Independent Medical Examination process, and the introduction of artificial intelligence tools to improve record-keeping and client communication.

The TAC said it is also working to reduce administrative burden for health providers by streamlining billing, payment and approval processes. It noted fee increases introduced this year for physiotherapy, occupational therapy, psychology and neuropsychology, with further fee reviews across other allied health professions scheduled throughout 2026.

Asked what she hopes will come from the inquiry, Ms Tesseyman said her priority is improving injured Victorians’ access to treatment by making the scheme easier for clinicians to work with.

“We need to reduce the administrative burden on clinicians and improve the TAC’s payment systems,” she said.

She also wants claimants to have a stronger voice in how the scheme operates.

“We don’t even know how many people have taken their lives from the stress of dealing with the TAC,” she said. “I would like the TAC to stop causing harm to people.”

The parliamentary committee is expected to hand down its report in August.

Those experiencing difficulties with the TAC who would like peer support or practical guidance are encouraged to join the TAC Client Support Group on Facebook.

Ms Tesseyman and her family. (Supplied)

69 submissions were made to the Inquiry. (File: 541676)

Gus’ first walk with his brother after three months of not being able to. (Supplied)

Unusable services alleged

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

One of Australia’s largest aged care providers is facing a Federal Court class action over allegations residents were charged daily fees for additional services they did not, and could not, use, including high teas, exercise classes and bus outings.

The proceeding has been filed on behalf of residents who lived at Arcare aged care facilities and paid for the provider’s “signature package” , which allegedly included an additional daily services fee ranging from $20 to $35.

Arcare operates facilities in Croydon, Ringwood, Boronia, Knox and Lysterfield. The current claim does not include residents from Arcare Slacks Creek, Arcare Eight Mile Plains and Arcare Hope Island in Queensland.

The lawsuit alleges residents were charged for services despite being unable to access or benefit from them because of their individual circumstances.

The high-profile global law firm, Quinn Emanuel Urquhart and Sullivan, is acting for the applicants. In an email, it said the proceeding is an open class action, with the lead applicant filing the claim on her own behalf and on behalf of other eligible residents.

On a conservative estimate, the law firm said about 7500 group members could be covered by the proceeding.

The lead applicant is from Victoria but is not available for comment because of her role in the legal proceedings.

The matter is expected to be listed for its first case management conference in the Federal Court within the next month.

In a statement, Arcare said it would not comment on the allegations while the matter is before the court.

“As the matter you have referred to is currently before the Federal Court, it would not be appropriate for Arcare to comment on the allegations or the legal proceedings,” the statement said.

“Arcare remains committed to providing

high-quality care and services that support each resident’s choice, independence and dignity.”

“We value feedback from our residents and their families and encourage anyone with questions or concerns about their own care or services to speak with their residence manager or contact us through our established feedback and complaints process.”

Seniors Rights Victoria and the Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria said they would watch the case with interest.

COTA Victoria and Seniors Rights Victoria chief executive officer, Ben Rogers said it was vital that older people who chose to pay for additional

services in residential aged care were not taken advantage of.

“For an aged care provider to charge a resident for extras they do not - or cannot - use is extremely concerning,” he said.

“It needs to be stopped so we can maintain trust in the system.”

Mr Rogers said concerns about optional fees in aged care had existed before recent reforms and continued following the introduction of the Higher Everyday Living Fee (HELF) last November, which was intended to provide greater choice for residents.

He said the organisations would continue

monitoring the rollout of HELF to ensure older Victorians did not encounter a two-tier system, noting the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission had launched investigations into several residential aged care providers over the fee.

“The aged care system needs to effectively support and protect aged care residents in Victoria,” Mr Rogers said.

“COTA Victoria and Seniors Rights Victoria will continue to systemically advocate on behalf of older Victorians so these reforms can deliver on their potential, and in doing so, protect residents from financial exploitation, neglect and harm.”

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Arcare Aged Care has been accused of charging residents for services they could not use. (File)

Oakridge on the market

By Gabriella Vukman

Award-winning Yarra Valley winery Oakridge Wines has been placed on the market as Endeavour Group moves ahead with a strategy to reshape its wine portfolio and concentrate on its core retail operations.

The owner of Dan Murphey’s, BWS and over 350 pubs has officially appointed Colliers as the selling agent for Oakridge, with the sale

process now underway.

No timeline has been announced for a potential transaction, and the winery continues to operate as usual.

The move follows Endeavour Group’s broader plan to reposition its Pinnacle Drinks business, which includes its premium wine assets, towards a more streamlined model.

A spokesperson from the Endeavour Group told Star Mail, “Endeavour Group is seeking a new owner for the award-winning Oakridge brand and operation as part of the company’s strategy which refocuses on the company’s core retail business.”

“Endeavour Group announced a new strategy in May, which included repositioning the Pinnacle Drinks portfolio to be asset-light and customer-led.”

The company has also appointed Elders to sell a number of South Australian vineyard assets, including the historic Chapel Hill property in McLaren Vale, while retaining the Chapel Hill brand.

Other vineyards across Barossa, Coonawarra and Tasmania are also being considered for divestment.

The Australian Financial Review reported that Endeavour’s decision forms part of a wider push to improve profitability by reducing exposure to costly vineyard assets.

The company is among several major wine businesses reassessing their portfolios as the industry faces declining global consumption, changing drinking habits and a prolonged oversupply of grapes.

Endeavour has built a significant wine portfolio since separating from Woolworths in 2021, but is now shifting towards an asset-light approach while prioritising its retail operations.

In the face of the sale, Senior winemaker at Oakridge Wines Tim Dexter, said the winery’s focus on producing high-quality wines is likely to remain consistent.

Mr Dextrer said, “There have been several ownership changes for this particular brand and the one consistent thing has been wine quality.”

“Despite changing ownerships over the years, the wine has remained of really high quality.”

“If anything, the changeover brings an optimistic outlook to get even better, so it is quite exciting really.”

Mr Dexter believes the sale package will include vineyards and leases.

Oakridge recently received the Premier’s Trophy at the Victorian Wine Show after its 2023 Funder and Diamond Chardonnay, part of its premium 864 range, was recognised as the state’s champion wine.

Mr Dexter told Star Mail in a previous article, the award was a significant achievement for the team and recognition of the work invested across the business.

“It is awesome recognition for the team,” he said.

The sale comes during a difficult period for the Australian wine sector, which has been impacted by weaker demand, rising costs and changing consumer preferences.

The industry, valued at over $5 billion, relies heavily on exports, with around 60 per cent of production sent overseas.

Industry commentators have warned that significant structural changes may be required, including reducing vineyard plantings in response to oversupply.

Despite the challenges, Mr Dexter said the Yarra Valley wine community remained collaborative and committed to maintaining quality.

“We are a very collegiate region, we all get together and help each other out,” he said.

“The Yarra Valley is one team, one brand and one dream.”

As Endeavour Group progresses with its retail-focussed strategy, Oakridge’s next chapter will depend on finding a buyer that can continue building on the winery’s reputation for premium Yarra Valley wines.

Peak Industry Body for the Yarra Valley Wine industry, Wine Yarra Valley declined to comment.

Local voices say Oakridge intends to continue focussing on its high quality wine production. (425789).

Food relief outgrows home

By Mikayla van Loon

A massive surge in demand has forced Mooroolbark Food Relief to expand into its own storefront, but the volunteer-run group now faces a major logistical hurdle: it desperately needs a food retrieval vehicle.

Formerly operating under the Shop 16 umbrella, the charity officially incorporated in February and recently moved into Shop 13 at The Terrace, the site of the former Yarra Valley Gourmet Sausages.

Operations manager Jenny Knoop said the new space provides much-needed room for food preparation and incredible refrigerated storage.

“We’re blessed, we’re beyond blessed, we’re so grateful,” Ms Knoop said.

“We pay our own power, we pay our own rent, we’re self-sustainable.”

The upgrade allows the group to store meat and frozen meals that they previously had to turn away. It also enables volunteers to portion out large amounts of fruits, vegetables, and pantry staples like sugar, ensuring more residents receive assistance.

Outside of market hours on Wednesdays and Saturdays, volunteers leave tables stocked with food outside the shopfront for locals to take as needed.

Secretary Rosalie Roberts said the markets and daily food tables now support more than 400 families, roughly 1000 people, every week.

In June alone, the group rescued 16,019 kilograms of surplus food, distributing it to financially struggling or environmentally conscious residents, while giving inedible scraps to local farmers and gardeners.

However, transporting tonnes of food each week in private vehicles has pushed the charity to its limit.

“Our problem is our logistics,” Ms Knoop said.

“We have volunteers going out to three or four different places, whereas we could get one van driver who could do it all at once....We’re just going every which way and making do with what we’ve got.”

On Wednesday 8 July Ms Knoop spent 90 minutes driving to Glen Waverley and back, while other volunteers used their own cars to squeeze in collections from Donvale, Croydon North, and Chirnside supermarkets.

The group is now appealing to local businesses, car dealers, or residents for the use of a vehicle. While a refrigerated van would be ideal, it is not strictly necessary.

“We don’t necessarily want to buy it; we just want to loan it, we just want to drive it, so it can be their van, and we drive it,” Ms Knoop said.

“We’re really open to whatever.”

Financial donations are also welcome to help the not-for-profit hire a vehicle in the interim.

Beyond food relief, the markets have turned The Terrace into a vibrant, inclusive community hub.

Backed by 30 dedicated volunteers aged 18 to 85, the Saturday market now features a kiosk serving complimentary tea, coffee, and soup.

“It’s just lovely people meeting people and getting on, and giving back.”

Ms Roberts noted that the service supports a highly diverse demographic, offering everything from Chin dialect translators to pre-packed food boxes for those feeling overwhelmed.

Volunteers also heat meals for people experiencing homelessness and provide utensils and a safe space to eat.

“From the food available, our people can select culturally appropriate items for themselves,” Ms Roberts said.

Ms Roberts emphasised that every cent or item donated goes straight back into the community.

“We gratefully appreciate each of our partnerships and volunteers and their time and generosity of heart that is so freely given,” she said.

To volunteer or assist with a vehicle, contact

Volunteer funding overhaul leaves VRCs in the lurch

By Oliver Winn

Volunteer support organisations across the country banded together to launch a petition calling for funding amid growing uncertainty.

Known as Volunteer Resource Centres (VRC), these place-based organisations are vital pieces of the volunteer framework, connecting volunteers with the organisations that need them.

In the outer east, EV Strengthening Communities is a VRC that has supported individuals into volunteering and strengthened local organisations.

But its chief executive officer Viv Cunningham-Smith said the petition demanded consistent funding beyond 2027 from the Federal Government.

“The petition that we’re asking people to sign is to let government know that there remains an urgent need in all communities across Australia for those core functions of Volunteer Resource Centres to be restored, to allow people to have in their communities a place to go to find volunteering opportunities.”

But a Federal Government Department of Social Services (DSS) spokesperson said from next year, changes were being made to the funding model for VRCs “improve consistency”

“Under this new model, community organisations, such as Volunteer Resource Centres (VRCs), will be able to apply for funding through their state and territory peak body for local proj-

ects. Funding for successful applicants will be provided from 1 July 2027,” a DSS spokesperson said.

“To prepare for the changes to the program, Volunteer Resource Centres have been offered a 12-month extension to their current funding arrangements under the VMA, to 30 June 2027.”

Under the new arrangements, it’s unclear whether the 40 existing VRCs would all be able to all receive funding, or if only a limited number of applicants will be successful.

For 40 years, EV Strengthening Communities has been the central hub of the volunteering network. But in 2020, the Federal Government stopped funding VRCs, which stripped EV Strengthening Communities’s ability to support 600 outer east volunteer networks.

VRCs like EV Strengthening Communities have been funded with yearly $50,000 grants since 2021. Though it’s merely a fraction of what the organisations need to properly deliver their services, these grants have at least helped them keep the doors open.

Ms Cunningham-Smith said the Yarra Ranges would lose a vital volunteer workforce if EV Strengthening Communities were to shut down.

“There’s nowhere for people to go to be able to get into volunteering. So we’re losing people to deliver services in the community.

“There’s services in the arts, there’s services in the environment, there are community services, there are emergency management ser-

Volunteer Resource Centres (VRC) have provided essential support to volunteers across the country. (File)

vices, tourism services right across the spectrum.

“If we don’t have a pipeline of people who want to volunteer and are assisted to volunteer, then the consequence of that is reduced services to the community,” Ms Cunningham-Smith said.

VRCs were places were those who wanted to volunteer were able to find the opportunities to do so. Meanwhile, VRCs also provided support for organisations with volunteers, such as training and upskilling.

With 480 signatures, the petition is gaining support from across the country.

The petition states if funding were to be replaced by a centralised model, communities would risk losing the local expertise of VRCs.

Among the 600 organisations across the outer east EV Strengthening Communities used to assist was Healesville Living and Learning Centre (HLLC).

Though HLLC executive officer Nich Rogers was only appointed after EV Strengthening Communities had to scale back its services, he said the benefits they could provide now would be significant.

“It would be really helpful to have more resources from a service like EV because I’m no expert when it comes to volunteers.

“I’ve got staff to manage, contractors to manage, trainers to manage, and I also have volunteers at my service, but having some frameworks or some resources and some resources would be really helpful to me in order to better support volunteers,” Mr Rogers said.

Ms Cunningham-Smith said EV Strengthening Communities also supported a large number of community houses in the outer east throughout the Yarra Ranges, Maroondah, Whitehorse and Manningham LGAs.

“We’ve helped suppor the neighborhood groups. In fact, before Aaron Violi went into politics, I trained him on in governance in committees when he was on the Lilydale Township Group,” she said.

“We need to restore the place-based volunteer resource centres into communities if we want sustainable volunteering to continue into the future.”

Mooroolbark Food Relief volunteer Ian. (Mikayla van Loon: 564961)

There’s always an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables. (564961)

Pantry items. (564961)

Mooroolbark Food Relief has found a home in Shop 13 at The Terrace. (564961)

Doing it for Team Mace

By Mikayla van Loon

Six months ago, Croydon father Daniel Fringuelli weighed nearly 100 kilograms and had never considered himself a runner.

But after a conversation at a family dinner sparked a sudden desire to change his life, he underwent a radical health transformation, dropping 28 kilograms and building the endurance to tackle a half marathon.

Joining a gym first, the initial motivation, Daniel said, was “to get myself fit and healthy for my kids”

A gruelling five-kilometre run on New Year’s Eve with his cousin, despite pushing his limits at the time, was the catalyst for Daniel’s six-month running journey.

On 19 July, he’ll be lacing up his runners as he sets out on the Run Melbourne half marathon course as an ambassador for Variety - the Children’s Charity Victoria, representing Team Mace.

For Daniel, the cause is deeply personal. His seven-year-old son Mace is autistic and non-verbal.

Through Variety’s partnership with the Hawthorn Football Club and The Inclusion Project, the family was able to access sensory rooms at the MCG and take part in special footy clinics, allowing Mace and his four-year-old brother, Banks, to run through the player banners.

Variety also supported the family in attending the Monster Trucks show last year.

“With Mace, it’s super hard,” Daniel said.

“You can spend all this money and go to things, and you might only last for an hour or half an hour and have to go home because it’s just too much sensory overload.

“Being able to get the opportunity to do these things and not have to fork out all this money is super helpful.”

Upping the ante, Daniel committed to the full 21.1km half marathon, initially signing up for 10km. His training regimen now requires gruelling discipline, but his motivation remains clear.

“Mace is just a really special little boy. He’s always happy. He always has quite a big smile on his face. He’s full of life,” Daniel said.

“The fact that he can’t communicate how he feels, I try and be his voice a bit. Getting up at 4 o’clock in the morning, going to the gym, or going for runs, it’s not hard when I look at him and my other son, Banks.

“Knowing that they’re happy, beautiful kids makes it that much easier.”

What began as a personal quest to get healthy has turned into a massive community movement.

Daniel has already raised over $6000, with his sights firmly set on a $7000 goal to support families navigating the challenges of raising children with additional needs.

The local community has rallied tightly around the family. A recent run club event at Inglewood Coffee Roasters raised over $600, while Mace’s

primary school chipped in another $560 through a pyjama day fundraiser.

Five of Daniel’s close friends will run the half marathon alongside him, while other family members tackle the 10km track.

Variety Victoria chief executive officer Peter Bruce praised Daniel’s grassroots impact, noting that Team Mace represents the core values of family and inclusion.

“Daniel’s story is a powerful reminder that fundraising is personal. He started this journey for his son, and in doing so has inspired a community around him,” he said.

“Team Mace is about family, inclusion and helping more children access the support and opportunities they deserve.”

With race day just one week away, Daniel hopes his story will inspire other local families.

“I never expected to raise the money that I’ve raised,” Daniel said. “I’m just trying to be a better father for my kids and a better partner to my fiancee. It’s all kind of coming together like a little jigsaw puzzle.”

He would love to launch a Team Mace run club in the Croydon area, welcoming everyone, especially children with special needs and their par-

ents, as a way to connect and lean on each other. Funds raised through Team Variety help provide practical equipment, programs and experiences for children who are sick, disadvantaged or living with disability.

If you can’t support financially, Daniel said, even attending Run Melbourne to encourage him on the day “would be amazing”

Community members can support the cause by donating at fundraise.variety.org.au/run/runmelbourne

ECLC’s Michael Smith appointed to Respect Victoria board

By Callum Ludwig

There will be eastern expertise on the new board of Respect Victoria following the appointment of Michael Smith.

Mr Smith is the chief executive of Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC) and brings his wealth of experience to the agency, which sets out to prevent family violence and violence against women in Victoria.

Mr Smith said it’s a real honour and a privilege.

“My work at Eastern Community Legal Centre, but in other organisations over many years, has very much been about both responding to family violence and preventing family violence,” he said.

“We’re very lucky to have Respect Victoria as an organisation set up by the government to really prevent family violence before it occurs, and they’ve been doing excellent work for a number of years.

“I’m really keen to support the important work they’re doing and to get that real statewide picture about how we can prevent family violence and make a much safer Victoria.”

Mr Smith is one of four new members on the board while after four years on the board, the chief executive of Women’s Legal Service Victoria Claudia Fatone has been appointed the chair for a three-year term.

Mr Smith said despite how things have improved historically, there’s still far too many peo-

ple experiencing family violence.

“We know that Victoria as a state, in terms of the systems and the funding and the approach, is doing much, much better in responding to family violence than we’re used to, we know the police response is much improved, we know we’ve got some great programs and we’ve got some things that are doing much better,” he said.

“But the levels of family violence against women and children in particular are still much too high, there are sadly women being killed every week in relation to family violence and we had another one this week in the east, which is incredibly sad.

“We need to keep improving, we need to keep redoubling our efforts to prevent family violence, to intervene early and to respond… there have been great steps forward since the Royal Commission in Victoria, but there’s much more work to do as well.”

Resident of Boroondara, Whitehorse, Manningham, Knox, Maroondah and the Yarra Ranges can seek free legal advice from ECLC at their offices in Healesville or Box Hill, as well as at outreach locations.

Mr Smith said Eastern Community Legal Centre has been working in the family violence area for over 50 years.

“We know that from conversations with people who started the organisation back then and a majority of our work relates to family violence, so we’re supporting women and children and

broader community members every day responding to family violence,” he said.

“But we know that you can’t just keep responding, you have to find ways to prevent family violence before it occurs and to intervene early so we’ve been pretty active in local primary prevention programs that prevent family violence before it occurs.

“We’re an active member of the Together for

Equality and Respect partnership, which includes lots of the local councils across the east and other organisations that are looking to prevent violence, so we’ve been doing that work locally and regionally.”

The new board members commenced their terms on Tuesday 7 July 2026, replacing outgoing chair and inaugural board member Professor Kate Fitz-Gibbon, Maxine McKew AM and Professor Steven Roberts.

Respect Victoria Chief Executive Officer Helen Bolton thanked outgoing Board members for their exceptional contribution and welcomed both returning and new directors.

“Their combined expertise, experience and commitment to prevention will be invaluable as Respect Victoria continues to provide evidence-informed leadership and work alongside government, communities and partners to create lasting change,” she said.

Minister for Prevention of Family Violence

Melissa Horne said family violence continues to have devastating impacts throughout the community – the work of Respect Victoria is more important than ever.

“The diverse skills and backgrounds of the new Board members place them in a strong position to continue Respect Victoria’s critical work,” she said.

“I thank the outgoing Chair and Board members for their outstanding service and leadership during their tenure.”

Seven-year-old Mace and his dad Daniel Fringuelli. (Stewart Chambers: 562971)

Daniel is running as an ambassador for Varietythe Children’s Charity. (562971)

Daniel will be lacing up his runners for 21.1km on Sunday 19 July for Run Melbourne. (562971)

Mace inspired Daniel to give running a go and push himself to run the half marathon. (562971)

Eastern Community Legal Centre chief executive Michael Smith has been appointed to the Respect Victoria board. (Supplied)

A call out for carers

By Gabriella Vukman

Animal Aid in Coldstream has put out the word for the need for more foster carers to step up.

Coldstream’s Animal Aid is calling for community members to become foster carers, as the organisation experiences increasing demand for its services.

With more cats and dogs entering care and kitten season extending beyond traditional timeframes, the organisation is struggling to keep up with the number of unhoused animals turning up at its doors.

The call comes as Yarra Ranges Council continues reviewing its Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP), which guides how cats and dogs are managed across the municipality, and is designed to promote responsible pet ownership and improve animal welfare outcomes.

The DAMP focuses specifically on cats and dogs.

Other animals kept on private properties are managed under Council’s Neighbourhood Amenity Local Laws, while matters such as fees, fines, dog off-leash areas and other animal-related local laws sit outside the scope of the plan.

Yarra Ranges Council’s review has included community consultation to better understand local priorities and experiences.

The first phase of engagement received more than 1,600 views of the project page and 543 individual survey contributions.

Council also gathered feedback through faceto-face discussions at Community Links locations, family days and local events, as well as online information sessions, social media promotion and local advertising.

The council’s DAMP recognises that Yarra Ranges is a diverse municipality with both urban and rural communities.

While cats and dogs are valued members of many households, the council also considers the protection of native wildlife, bushland, waterways and sensitive environments when planning animal management strategies.

Key areas covered by the DAMP include responsible pet ownership, animal registration and identification, reducing the risk of attacks, managing dangerous and menacing dogs, addressing nuisance issues and responding to overpopulation, abandoned pets and euthanasia.

Animal Aid foster coordinator Liz Walker said the organisation’s foster program is an important part of supporting animals while they wait for permanent homes.

“Animal aid has had a foster programme for quite a few years now and the programme is specifically for juvenile animals such as young kittens and puppies,” Ms Walker said.

“They need a bit more love and attention until

File: 547783).

they get to around eight to ten weeks.”

“Through our programme, we de-sex them, microchip them and find them a forever home.”

Ms Walker said foster care also provides important support for animals recovering from medical conditions or experiencing behavioural challenges.

“It’s well known throughout the world of animal sheltering that animals do far better, recover quicker and their stress levels are much lower in a home environment rather than a shelter environment.”

She said a foster home can also help Animal Aid better understand an animal’s behaviour outside the shelter environment.

“Putting an animal in a home environment when it’s exhibiting some behavioural issues within the shelter gives us a better idea of how that animal then acts within that home environment and whether those behavioural issues disappear or whether they become less severe.”

The foster program also helps Animal Aid increase its capacity to take in more animals.

Animal Aid operates across several council areas and receives many animals from the Yarra Ranges region.

Ms Walker said local community support is essential.

“Animal Aid has a number of council contracts and we do get many Yarra Ranges animals in so that’s where we look to our local community to support through signing up as a foster carer,” she said.

The organisation’s call for more foster carers comes as Animal Aid reports an increase in animals entering care compared with the same peri-

od last year.

“The numbers have increased compared to this time last year.”

Ms Walker said cost-of-living pressures have contributed to more pet surrenders.

“Cost of living has taken its toll not only throughout Victoria but Australia-wide, and we’re seeing the result of that with a higher surrender of cats and dogs,” she said.

The shelter has also experienced longer kitten seasons, creating additional pressure on animal welfare organisations.

“Kitten numbers remain high in care and traditionally when kitten season is supposed to end around May we’re seeing it stretch out until September.”

Ms Walker said fostering is particularly valuable for kittens and their mothers because it allows them to develop in a home environment.

The issue of unwanted and abandoned animals is also identified as a key challenge in the Yarra Ranges Council’s DAMP.

Council data from the current 2022-26 DAMP plan showed a decrease in impounded animals between 2018 and 2021, with dog impoundments falling from 483 to 396 and cat impoundments decreasing from 457 to 320.

Council noted that the Covid-19 pandemic may have contributed to the reduction, with more residents working from home and pets potentially less likely to wander.

However, the council also identified ongoing concerns around unclaimed animals and euthanasia rates, particularly for cats.

In 2021, 83 of the 320 impounded cats were reunited with their owners, compared with 321 of

Sharing surplus, growing community

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Driven by a shared desire to reduce environmental footprint and benefit from sustainable practices, many people in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs are swapping surplus fruit, vegetables and other household items they have more of than they can use, giving them a new purpose while supporting local connections.

The convener of the Mooroolbark Urban Harvest Swap, Claire has watched the monthly gathering grow into a thriving community event, recently celebrating its 10th birthday.

She said the idea began after she and another community member were involved with a similar swap in Forest Hill before moving closer to Mooroolbark.

“It was a bit silly driving all the way from Mooroolbark down to Forest Hill once a month, so I thought I’d see how we would get one going up here,” Claire said.

The swap is supported by a grant from Yarra Ranges Council to help cover the venue costs and has grown from a small gathering into a regular event attracting around 20 people each month.

Rather than a direct exchange, the swap allows people to bring along whatever surplus items they have available.

“It’s not like I’ll give you two oranges if you give me one lemon,” Claire said.

Participants share fruit, vegetables, seedlings, plants, eggs, preserves, gardening books, tools and household items.

Seasonal produce such as citrus, tomatoes, lettuces, carrots, silverbeet, garlic, herbs and apples are common additions.

Claire said the swap is as much about connection as it is about produce.

“It’s more of a way of catching up with people who don’t think you’re weird if you have chickens, or weird if your chickens roam the front yard,” she said.

The swap brings together people with different levels of gardening experience, from beginners to long-time growers, and provides opportunities to share knowledge through informal talks on topics such as seed saving, preserving, bees and dehydrating.

Claire said the gatherings help people find ways to use the abundance that can come from home gardens.

“If you look at the preserves, you might have 600 oranges, how do you preserve 600 oranges?” she said.

“You can juice them, you can dry them.”

The Mooroolbark Urban Harvest Swap is part of the Eastern Suburbs Permaculture Group (ESPG), which began in 2006 with a focus on sustainable urban living, gardening and reducing environmental footprints.

In2018,theOuterEasternPermacultureSwaps joined ESPG, expanding the network across the outer eastern suburbs.

Monthly swaps are now held in Bayswater, Heathmont and Mooroolbark, where residents share homegrown produce, seeds, seedlings, preserves and gardening knowledge.

The community effort comes as Australia continues to address food waste.

According to the Department of Climate

Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Australia wastes around 7.6 million tonnes of food each year, with households responsible for about 2.5 million tonnes, or 30 per cent, of that waste.

Foodbank Australia reports that while Australia produces enough food to feed everyone three times over, millions of households still experience difficulty putting meals on the table.

Australia’s National Food Waste Strategy aims to halve food waste by 2030, with community initiatives such as produce swaps offering one way people can make better use of available resources.

Claire said people interested in attending do not need to bring anything.

“Just come along and have a cup of tea and check it out,” she said.

However, she stressed the swap is about community sharing rather than food relief.

“It is not a food relief pantry,” Claire said.

the 396 impounded dogs.

Of the 237 unclaimed or unowned cats recorded, 151 were rehomed through adoption programs, 80 were euthanised and six remained available for adoption.

Of the 65 unclaimed or unowned dogs, 34 were rehomed through adoption programs, 25 were euthanised and six remained available for adoption.

The Council maintains that animals not reclaimed by their owners may be offered for rehoming if they meet health and temperament requirements, while euthanasia may occur where animals have untreatable illnesses or behavioural issues that present a risk to the community.

The DAMP also outlines a range of actions aimed at improving animal management, including promoting responsible pet ownership programs, encouraging dog bite prevention education, improving responses to dog attacks and ensuring dangerous and menacing dogs are appropriately managed.

Under Yarra Ranges Council’s current animal management rules, residents must obtain a permit to keep more than two dogs and/or two cats on properties smaller than 2,000 square metres. Dogs must generally be kept on a leash in public areas unless they are in designated off-leash locations, and owners must ensure their dogs do not threaten, rush, worry or attack people or other animals. Owners are also required to carry a device for collecting dog waste.

Cats in Yarra Ranges are required to be confined to their owner’s property at all times.

Ms Walker emphasised the benefits of adopting animals from shelters and said, “Anything you adopt from a shelter regardless of whether it’s a kitten, puppy, adult dog or adult cat is always going to be desexed, microchipped and vaccinated so you don’t have to worry about anything you just get to take the animal home.”

“We like to say adopt rather than shop.”

Those interested in becoming foster carers can visit Animal Aid’s website and complete an online information session explaining the program, expectations and support available.

After completing an information session, locals can sign up and start fostering straight away.

Ms Walker said along with being a great feelgood exercise for locals, fostering an animal has many great benefits for the local community.

“When you foster an animal, you are actually having a huge impact on that animal’s life and outcome.”

“If you think you are missing that pet in your life but haven’t really got the lifestyle to have a pet full-time fostering it’s your perfect alternative.” For more information, head to the Animal Aid website at animalaid.org.au/

Head to Animal Aid Coldstream’s Facebook Page and or website for more information on fostering a pet. (Ivan Kemp,

Attendees socialising at the community swap. (Supplied)

A selection of produce and homemade goods shared at the swap, including vegetables, plants, preserves and jars for the preserving group. (Supplied)

Cakes made for the Mooroolbark Urban Harvest Swap’s 10th birthday in March. (Supplied)

Community Course Guide Course Guide

Plenty coming up for term

We have a lot of our regular activities returning for Term 3 at Lilydale Community House.

New ones this term include Meditation classes on Saturday mornings, 9.30-10.30am. An hour of meditation to set you up ready for the weekend. We also have Ability Cooking specifically for people with a disability. This is a free 6-week course, where people will learn how to cook or improve their cooking skills. Generously funded by Community Bank Mt Evelyn, this has very limited spaces so enquiries are only by ringing us on 7036 6813.

session on 7 th September for Women’s Health Week.

The Lilydale & District Historical Society will be conducting another walk. This time it will be a tour of the Old Lilydale Lawn Cemetery, with many interesting stories of local people who are laid to rest here. And once again Bunnings Lilydale will be running a “Potting Up For Wellbeing”

We offer a variety of classes, workshops and social activities at low cost or no cost

Our activities for TERM 3, 2026 starting Monday 13 July

MONDAYS

Paint, Draw, Create, Explore 10.30–12.30pm Gold coin donation

Soup & Stories

11am–1pm Cost: Free Make soup together and eat together

Creative Arts (4 weeks)

20 July–10 August, 1-3pm Cost: $100

Join Leigh to learn different media as well as her popular oil painting. Materials supplied.

TUESDAYS

Table Tennis 1-3pm. Gold coin donation Pop Pilates

An upbeat full body toning session with easy to follow moves and fun music. 6.30-7.30pm Contact 0457 008 627 directly.

WEDNESDAYS

Nervous System Workshops

26 August or 16 September

7-8.30pm Cost: $10 a session

Understanding the nervous system and how it impacts your body and its regulation.

THURSDAYS

Step & Connect Women’s Social Walks Group leaves the House 9.30am sharp. Return for a cuppa. Cost: Free Cooking Together

30 July, 6, 13, 20, 27 August. 11am-1pm Cost: $50 for 5 weeks. The Singing Circle

Join Barb for singing and laughter each week. 1.30-3.00pm. $10 per session. Pay on the day.

FRIDAYS

Exercise for Older Adults (Class 1) 10-10.45am. $10 a session.

Exercise for Older Adults (Class 2) 11-11.45am. $10 a session.

SATURDAYS Meditation NEW

Starts 18 July

9.30-10.30am Cost: $10 a session, $90 for 9 week term.

SESSIONS

History Walk

Thursday 6 August

Old Lilydale Cemetery – 10am-12pm Cost: $15

Potting Up for Wellbeing

Monday 7 September Time: 1-3pm Cost: Free TALKING CAFE

Wednesdays @Hendriks, 54 John St Lilydale

Join others for a cuppa and chat, 2-3pm

OPEN FORUM

Join Councillors Tim Heenan, Billanook Ward and Mitch Mazarrella, Melba Ward for a 2hour Open Forum.

We invite the community to come along and ask questions, raise concerns and listen and speak to your local councillors for Billanook and Melba Wards.

Wednesday August 5, 6.30-8.30pm RSVP by August 3

Light refreshments will be available. Please RSVP for catering purposes.

Website: www.lilydalech.org.au | Email: enquiries@lilydalech.org.au

This term also sees two sessions of Nervous System Workshops in the evening on 26 August and 16 September.

We are pleased to announce that we will be holding an Open Forum on Wednesday 5 August, 6.30-8.30pm with Councillors Tim Heenan and Mitch Mazzarella from Yarra Ranges Council. We invite the community to come along and ask questions, raise concerns and listen and speak to your local councillors for Billanook and Melba Wards. RSVP August 3 for catering purposes.

Check out our program! Come along and join in the fun in any of our regular activities too! Our website is: lilydalech.org.au or phone us on 7036 6813.

Semester 2, 2026 (Terms 3 & 4) - Adult Education

Read Write Now

Boost your literacy, numeracy, and digital skills in a supportive, fun, and personalized learning environment! Gain practical skills that fit your needs and interests.

Talk Learn Live: Everyday English (NEW)

Empower your voice with Talk, Learn, Live—a practical English course designed to help you connect, communicate, and thrive in your Australian community. Build skills that open doors to work, friendships, and new experiences!

Workshop series “Digital Skills for Work and Life”

Learn to use your phone, tablet or laptop with confidence. Join friendly, hands-on workshops to build everyday digital skills—from texting to video calls and online safety. Attend one or as many as you like.

English for Living and Working in Australia

Build your English skills for everyday life and work with our confidence-boosting class. Get practical language support tailored to your needs.

English Conversation Groups Is English your second language? Do you want to improve your speaking and listening skills? Join our group where you can practice English and gain confidence in real-life conversations.

Brainworks

Keep

Health and Financial Wellbeing

Learn how small changes can improve your mental

Hard at work.

Cultivate your cooking craft in the kitchen.

Soup and Stories is always popular in the cold months of winter. (Supplied)

Preserving a proud history

Community Bank Mt Evelyn is proud to support Eastey Fire Trucks, a volunteer group dedicated to preserving Victoria’s firefighting heritage through the restoration and display of historic CFA appliances.

Led by Brett Eastwood, the group’s six members bring more than 300 years of combined volunteer and career fire service experience. Together, they care for five historic CFA vehicles, ensuring an important part of Victoria’s emergency services history is preserved for future generations. Through public displays, commemorative events and community engagement, Eastey Fire Trucks helps keep these stories alive while bringing people together through connection, learning and shared experiences.

Why is this investment important for our community?

• Eastey’s work helps:

• Preserve local firefighting history.

• Honour generations of CFA volunteers and firefighters.

• Bring people together through storytelling and community events.

• Promote social connection and wellbeing. Ensure important stories are passed on to future generations

Our Community Bank Mt Evelyn team invest in organisations like Eastey Fire Trucks as we believe that stronger, more connected communities are better for everyone. If you believe that too and you’re taking a look at your banking situation

– consider giving us a go in Mt Evelyn. Our team are locals who love what they do, are great at what they do, and they’re waiting to help you. Call us on 9737 1833 or drop in and visit us at 2/35-39 Wray Crescent, Mt Evelyn. Mt Evelyn Community Bank is proud to support community organisations. (Supplied)

Preserving History. Strengthening Community.

Evelyn’s Place at the heart

At the heart of Mount Evelyn sits a place that was always meant to belong to the community.

People often ask, “Who’s Evelyn?”

The answer usually surprises them. Evelyn isn’t a person. Evelyn’s Place was named after the town itself because, from the very beginning, it was created as a place that belongs to the Mount Evelyn community.

Owned by Alison, Evelyn’s Place brings together more than 80 independent small businesses under one roof, creating a welcoming destination where visitors can discover thoughtful gifts, beautiful homewares, jewellery, artwork, fashion, gourmet treats and so much more. Every shelf tells the story of someone who has taken the brave step of turning an idea into a business.

Starting a small business is about far more than creating a beautiful product. Behind every candle, painting, pair of earrings or handmade gift is someone who has become the designer, marketer, photographer, accountant, customer service team and everything in between. Small business owners wear countless hats, often with limited resources but an incredible amount of passion.

Evelyn’s Place exists to help make that journey a little easier.

By giving small businesses a welcoming retail space and a supportive community around them, they can focus on doing more of what they love while connecting with customers who genuinely appreciate thoughtful, independent businesses. At the same time, shoppers have the opportunity to discover products they simply won’t find in a major shopping centre, knowing every purchase directly supports someone’s dream.

While the business proudly carries the name of Mount Evelyn, its doors are open to makers

and creators from across the region who share the same values of quality, creativity and community. Together, they’ve created a space that feels calm, welcoming and inspiring. It’s somewhere people are encouraged to slow down, browse, discover

something unexpected and connect with the stories behind the products.

More than anything, Evelyn’s Place celebrates the idea that small businesses help shape thriving communities. Every maker brings something dif-

ferent. Every customer becomes part of that story. Every purchase creates another opportunity for someone to continue building their dream.

The hope is that when people visit Mount Evelyn, Evelyn’s Place becomes somewhere they simply have to visit. Not just because it’s filled with beautiful products, but because it reflects everything that’s special about supporting independent businesses and being part of a welcoming community.

After all, Evelyn’s Place isn’t named after a person. It’s named after a community, because that’s who she’s always belonged to.

Alison Evan welcomes the community to Evelyn’s Place. (Stewart Chambers: 564174)

You can find Evelyn’s Place at the heart of the Mt Evelyn township. (564174)

Come see what’s on show on the shelves at Evelyn’s Place. (564174)

Truth time

By Maria Millers

For many, the first instinct on waking is to lean over for that rectangular piece of glass that has become a constant companion of modern living: the mobile phone.

But last Wednesday for Telstra customers came the rude shock that not only was the early morning temperature barely above zero but that their phones were not responding: no morning wakeup call, no time calls, no reminders, no notifications.

There was no signal, the network had experienced a major outage and what followed was chaos.

Twenty years ago, losing your mobile phone signal was mostly an inconvenience. Today, telecommunications underpin almost everything we do.

People stood in doorways holding useless rectangles of glass, waiting for a signal that never came.

Shops forgot how to sell.

Banks forgot who owned what. Traffic lights blinked once, then slept, while the city searched for its own memory.

This recent Telstra outage is more than a story about a telecommunications company experiencing a technical glitch.

It’s a wake up call to all of us about how deeply dependent on interconnected digital systems we have become and how failures can trigger a raft of problems reaching out well beyond the original one and affecting so many daily experiences of our lives. Even threatening lives.

The Telstra outage, described as being triggered by a software defect affecting network time synchronisation, left people with disrupted mobile services and then reached into most areas of our daily existence.

The outage demonstrated that a fault in one network can ripple across multiple industries and services because they all depend on the same digital foundations

We have become less practised at operating without digital systems.

The phone now holds much of what we used to commit to memory like phone numbers of close friends and relatives, their birthdays, important dates and vital appointments.

Now it has become central to our daily routines from paying for that morning coffee en route to work to paying for purchases, making or cancelling medical appointments, accessing transport, filling up or charging cars, contacting customers, verifying identities and the list goes on.

In a society where cash is fast disappearing as we tap our phones at the servo, coffee shop, supermarket, doctor’s surgery and for a myriad of other daily transactions, the sudden withdrawal of being able to do so throws people into panic.

Add to the list banking and other electronic transactions, public transport, emergency services, healthcare, logistics and freight – all becoming inoperable.

Small businesses across the country were immediately affected. Some taxi drivers lost fares that were worth hundreds of dollars.

Rail services in Victoria and NSW were halted for safety reasons causing chaos at terminals particularly for regional travellers.

Personal stories abounded: missed specialist appointments; a young woman could not get to her TAFE orientation day for a new course; a man missing his mother’s funeral; stranded Vic Rail passengers having to find and pay for hotel accommodation.

Distraught, unwell people found difficulties in getting through to 000.

It was later confirmed that 600 triple zero calls failed.

For a while it was feared that there could have been fatalities as more than 600 had attempted to call for help

Thankfully there were no direct fatalities as a result.

Also affected were those who have devices whichenablethemtofunctionsuchaspacemakers, pressure machines for sleep apnea or monitoring blood glucose levels for diabetics

All this raises the thorny question of whether we are too dependent on new technologies and vulnerable when things go wrong.

There is also the uncomfortable realisation that increasingly we lack the resilience to cope with dis-

WOORILLA WORDS

comfort and disruption.

Or how to plan for such eventualities.

People become moody, aggressive and look for who to blame

There is uncertainty in living through technological change particularly when change is more relentlessly rapid than is our ability to adjust and create structures and laws to soften transitioning through this liminal period.

This is of course not something that is new.

The healing power of nature has been the subject of much literature throughout the ages.

From the first Industrial Revolution to the rise of electricity and mechanisation, and later during the nuclear and computer ages, it remains just as relevant in the era of artificial intelligence, cloud computing and globally interconnected digital networks.

The technologies have changed, but the underlying human concern has not.

Back in the beginning of the 19th century poet William Wordsworth lamented:

The world is too much with us; late and soon,

Getting and spending, we lay waste our powers; Little we see in Nature that is ours;

We have given our hearts away, a sordid boon!

Although he was reacting to the early Industrial Revolution not digital technology, his concern was that people had become disconnected from nature, contemplation, and deeper human values. One can easily read the poem as equally relevant today. ButmodernpoetslikeMaryOliverdreamofafuture world in her poem, The Future, where technology coexists harmoniously with nature: I dream of a world where nature and technology thrive,

Where the stars are visible in the night sky, And people gather to share their stories, In a harmony of life and innovation.

The poem encourages readers to imagine a future where technology serves to enrich our lives, promoting a balance between innovation and the natural world. Oliver’s looks hopefully to the possibilities that lie ahead and the role technology can play in fostering a more connected and compassionate society.

Other poets have tackled the problem of love and connection in a technologically driven world. For older people the modern dating scene often seems overwhelming by the presence of technology, yet poets like Anne Carson suggest that despite the presence of machines human emotions endure: In the age of screens and machines, I search for the heartbeat beneath the wires.

Connection lost in the digital haze, Yet love persists, flickering like a candle.

The poem encourages readers to reflect on the importance of nurturing connections despite the distractions of technology, emphasising that true intimacy transcends the digital realm.

One striking observation is that poets rarely opposed technology itself. Instead, they questioned what might be lost if technological capability advanced faster than wisdom, community, or moral imagination.

Perhaps it’s also time to consider whether utilities and services like telecommunication should be in private hands. As private companies, their primary aim is to maximise profit through efficiency rather than the common good.

For this, we need leaders who can show us a common future that promotes enduring human valueswithinatechnologythatenhancesallaspects of our society

The outage also illustrated what some call the ‘fragility of complexity’ . As societies become more interconnected, they often become simultaneously more capable and more vulnerable.

Every technological advance solves problems while introducing new dependencies.

Woorilla Poetry Prize 2026 is now receiving entries via Submittable. Visit woorilla.com.au.

What’s in a name?

By Becki Vandenboom, John Bramley and Ross Polkinghorne

At the museum we have recently been considering the origins of the name Yarra Junction.

Historically there have been two rationales posited for the naming of the town. The first being the obvious confluence of two rivers.

However, the place where the Yarra River is met by the Little Yarra River or Yarra Rivulet is more than 2kms northwest of the current township.

Another reason cited is that Yarra Junction is so-called due to the railways that opened in 1901 and the transport hub that Yarra Junction would become.

We would like to suggest that the settlement got its name by being the Little Yarra site of a junction of paths travelled by miners and visitors to the goldfields and tin mines.

On the flats west of the river the main bush

track between Lilydale and Woods Point was met by another track heading south towards Gippsland.

Multiple sources from early mining days de-

scribe the track from Lilydale that led to the Upper Yarra goldfields.

On an 1865 sketch map drawn by goldfields Warden Panton, the main track from Lilydale to Woods Point is marked clearly and met by a smaller ‘bridle track’ heading south towards Neerim.

We know that this track was important in 1865 due to the recent discovery of tin in ‘North Gipps Land’.

The author of the Tin Miner series published in the Argus newspaper in that year, “followed the bush track” from Lilydale and describes diverting “south of east” on a track “within sight” of the “Little Yarra Township…just visible through the mist” and “proceeded up the valley of the Yarra Rivulet”

We estimate that the bridle track may have been in the somewhere between Riversdale Rd and the Little Yarra.

In the late nineteenth century the township

Paw patrol, pirates and opera

The heroic pups of Adventure Bay are getting ready to race across Australia with Nickelodeon, Stare Entertainment Group and TEG Live Touring are proud to announce an all-Australian cast for the tenth-anniversary tour of the iconic PAW Patrol live: Race to the Rescue.

Ryder and the pups share lessons for all ages about citizenship, social skills and problem-solving as they make several heroic rescues on their race to the finish line.

• Season August 22 Saturday – 23 Sunday.

• Venue: Margaret Court Arena. Eltham Little Theatre

AUDITION NOTICE

Lend Me a Tenor: synopsis

The notorious tale of mistaken identities and unexpected romance explodes in this comedy.

It’s 1934, and Opera virtuoso Titi Merelli is about to revive Othello for the 10th anniversary of the Cleland Grand Old Opera Company.

When Tito becomes inexpertly incapacitated, a suitable replacement must be found.

Audition Format:

Open Auditions will be held on Wednesday, 5 August at 7.30pm and Saturday, 8 August at 1pm in Eltham Little Theatre’s Rehearsal Room.

A cast of eight are required for this show, who must all show strong comedy skills both in timing

and slapstick with high energy.

Cast role ages are just a recommendation.

We are open to casting roles of either gender.

NOTE: Two of the roles, Tito and Max, are required to sing short snippets of Opera.

We are more looking for gusto and enthusiasm rather than strictly talent in this regard, so please do not feel intimidated if you have not studied at a European Musical Conservatory.

The song is Dio, che nell’alma infondere amor, from the opera Don Carlos if you would like to practice.

We are also open to using professional recordings with mime if necessary.

Email Director Matthew Freeman at auditions@elthamlittletheatre.org.au.

All shows and rehearsals will be held at Eltham Performing Arts Centre 1603 Main Rd Research.

Dates to be confirmed for three times a week.

and surrounding area was known as Little Yarra Junction and the primary school by that name was opened in 1894.

“Little Yarra Junction” was first listed in the 1896 edition of The Australian Handbook and Almanac, described as a “mining and pastoral district” with a population of about “70”

In 1906 despite the arrival of the railway, the town was still listed in the handbook as “Little Yarra Junction” with a population of about “150”

According to Victorian Places Website, the town name officially changed in 1908.

However, newspapers from the late 1890s highlight the local interchangeability of the shortened names for the township “Little Yarra” and “Yarra Junction”.

If you are interested in history or have stories of your own to share, come visit us at the Upper Yarra Valley Historical Society and Museum on Wednesdays and Sundays 10-4 or contact us via our website.

The Invite review

?/5

An Unlikeable Good Film

Directed by Olivia Wilde, The Invite is a small-scale film driven by big, passionate, chaotic emotions and a remake of the Spanish film The People Upstairs.

Joe (Seth Rogen) and Angela (Wilde), a constantly-fighting married couple, invite their upstairs neighbours Pina (Penelope Cruz) and Hawk (Edward Norton) around for dinner, but what they expected to be a simple visit becomes much more intimate.

The 1812 Theatre

Treasure island

This isn’t your dusty classic. This Treasure Island is at full throttle-packed with Ken Ludwig’s trademark rapid fire humour, razor sharp dialogue and the kind of theatrical spectacle that keeps you gripping the edge of your seat.

Follow Jim Hawkins as hurtled into a world of pirates, peril, and pounding twists. Long John Silver schemes in the shadows, tempers flare, swords clash, and the story races forward with the speed of a cannon blast.

• Season: 9 - 29 August.

Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels Laurence Jammeson makes his living by talking rich ladies out of their money.

Freddy Benson swindles women with fabricated stories about his grandfather’s failing health.

After meeting on a train, they attempt to work together, only to find that this small French town isn’t big enough for the two of them.

They agree on a settlement: the first one to extract $50,000 from a young female heiress, Christine Colgate, wins and the other must leave town.

A hilarious battle of the conmen ensues, and with music.

• Season: 10 - 26 September.

Set almost entirely in a single apartment, The Invite full of clever dialogue and gripping interpersonal tension, as Joe and Angela keep their animosity barelycontained and their perspective on their guests evolves from reserved hospitality to titillated intrigue. However, the film immediately establishes Joe and Angela as an extremely unlikeable couple, infusing the plot with a sense of inevitable collapse. Plenty of people will enjoy the deliberately uncomfortable vibes, the sexy destabilising influence of Hawk and Pina, and the angry futility and shreds of hope between Joe and Angela, but I personally found it annoying.

The weak link is Angela: while her character provides worthy commentary on how women are often expected to act for a man’s benefit, Angela is so intensely performative that she feels fundamentally dishonest and hard to relate to, and Joe is more likeable in a way I don’t think the filmmakers intended. I also found The Invite disappointingly straight, given Angela and Pina’s great chemistry and how Hawk is attracted to Joe’s raw honesty.

Sarah Polley’s 2011 romantic drama Take This Waltz (which stars Rogen) is a much more eventful, dynamic look at rocky relationships and grappling with attraction to others.

Coming after the witty high-school caper Booksmart and the incel 1950s Matrix pastiche Don’t Worry Darling, The Invite is Wilde’s weakest film as a director, but still a scintillating watch for those in the mood.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

Paw Patrol

The Invite Starring Olivia Wilde, Seth Rogen, Penelope Cruz and Edward Norton MA15+

The Upper Yarra Museum is host to many interesting stories of the past. (Stewart Chambers: 512295)

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 Upper part of a dress (6)

4 Sickness (6)

10 Extraterrestrial realm (5)

11 Awkward (9)

12 Obligation (9)

13 Make a speech (5)

14 Arachnid (6)

15 Strong wind (4)

19 Strike (4)

20 Shooting star (6)

24 Japanese verse form (5)

25 Russian chemist who developed the periodic table (9)

27 Clan leader (9)

28 Accumulate (5)

29 Vocalist (6)

30 Erase (6)

DOWN

1 Without foundation (8)

2 Theatrical (8)

3 Fissure (7)

5 Stunning (7)

6 Sacred beetle (6)

7 Horn of a deer (6)

8 Wireless internet (2-2)

9 Start of the calendar (3,4)

16 Porridge (7)

17 Sing to (8)

18 Fissure in a glacier (8)

19 Struggle confusedly (7)

21 Promote (7)

22 Inspects (6)

23 Subordinate (6)

26 Not any (4)

HOME SWEET HOME PLUS A HUGE SHED

HOME SWEET HOME PLUS A HUGE SHED

TUCKED away behind established trees on a beautifully maintained and fully usable 4,832sqm, this much-loved home offers the perfect blend of space, comfort and privacy. Thoughtfully updated over the years and impeccably cared for, it’s a property that feels welcoming from the moment you arrive and one you’ll easily see yourself enjoying for years to come.

Freshly painted throughout and featuring beautiful floorboards, the home offers four bedrooms, including a spacious master retreat complete with a walk-in robe, private ensuite, split-system heating and cooling, and its own lounge area – the perfect place to unwind at the end of the day. A separate study provides flexibility for those working from home, running a business, or simply needing extra space for the family.

At the heart of the home, the kitchen is designed for everyday living, featuring a gas cooktop and overlooking the living and dining spaces so you’re always connected to family and guests. A stylishly renovated bathroom, generous laundry, gas ducted heating and split systems throughout ensure comfort and practicality all year round.

Outside is where this property truly comes into its own. The front verandah is the ideal spot to enjoy your morning coffee while taking in the peaceful, treed outlook. The fully fenced and fully useable grounds provide plenty of room for children and pets to roam, while still offering a sense of privacy and seclusion.

Adding even more appeal is the impressive 15.5m x 14m shed, built approximately six years ago, offering endless possibilities for tradies, hobbyists, car enthusiasts or those simply needing substantial storage space.

Additional improvements include a doubleglazed rear door, a recently re-rocked driveway, and a septic system that was pumped and fitted with a new pump approximately two years ago, giving added peace of mind.

Offering space to grow, room to entertain and a peaceful lifestyle setting, this is a property that truly feels like home and all this only a short drive to Cockatoo township and around 1 hour from central Melbourne.

A HILLS HAVEN WITH A BACKYARD MADE TO ENJOY

SET amongst the natural beauty that Belgrave is loved for, 5 Martin Street offers a warm and inviting Hills lifestyle with generous living spaces, character filled interiors and a fantastic outdoor setting ideal for relaxed family living.

Inside, the home features three bedrooms, with robes to two bedrooms, serviced by a central bathroom complete with a bath, separate toilet and laundry. The spacious lounge provides an inviting place to unwind, enhanced by a cosy wood fire, ducted heating, 2x split systems, brick feature fireplace and beautiful timber lined ceiling that adds warmth and charm throughout the space.

The adjoining dining area offers a practical everyday layout, flowing through to the kitchen complete with good bench space, gas cooking, a breakfast bar and leafy outlooks.

Outdoors is where the property truly shines, with a large covered deck overlooking the rear yard, creating the perfect space for entertaining, weekend BBQs or simply enjoying the peaceful surrounds. The backyard is fully fenced and framed by established trees, offering a lovely setting for children, pets and outdoor enjoyment.

Additional features include a double garage, shed, camp fire area, ceiling fans and a functional floorplan with plenty of scope to enjoy as is, while still offering potential to update or add your own style over time (STCA).

Positioned in a convenient Belgrave location, close to Belgrave township, train station, local shops, cafes, schools, parks and walking tracks, this is a wonderful opportunity to secure a character home in a sought after Hills setting. ●

EQUESTRIAN LIFESTYLE ON 13 ACRES

SET behind a gated entry with a horseshoe driveway, this beautifully established 13-acre equestrian and hobby farm property offers the perfect balance of country lifestyle, horse facilities and comfortable family living in the heart of sought-after Macclesfield horse country.

Welcomed by an undercover entry, the home opens into a warm and inviting lounge where floating floors, a crackling woodfire and split system create a relaxed atmosphere year-round. Privately positioned, the master bedroom features a walk-in robe and ensuite, while the second carpeted bedroom sits alongside a study, ideal for those working from home or needing extra space for growing families.

Designed for easy everyday living, the spacious open plan kitchen, living and dining area forms the heart of the home. The kitchen is exceptionally well equipped with a large island bench and breakfast bar, gas stovetop, dishwasher, butler’s pantry, generous bench space and extensive storage. The adjoining living area includes a slow combustion wood heater, split system and access to the front verandah, while sliding doors from the dining area open to the rear entertaining space, creating seamless indoor-outdoor living.

A third bedroom, central family bathroom with separate toilet and full laundry complete the interior.

Outside, the property is perfectly set up for horse lovers and hobby farmers alike, featuring 6 fenced paddocks, a fenced grass arena, 3 stables and a tack room with concrete floor and power. Extensive shedding includes a double garage along with a substantial 4-car shed with both concrete and gravel flooring, power and plenty of room for floats, machinery, workshop space or additional storage.

An established orchard with a variety of fruit trees, pizza oven, dam and approximately 22,500 litres of water storage further enhance the lifestyle appeal of this versatile property. Offering usable land, excellent infrastructure and a peaceful rural setting, this is a fantastic opportunity to embrace the best of equestrian and hobby farm living in a tightly held Macclesfield location.

This property has it all so don’t miss outcall to arrange a private inspection today. Please note: All property details shown are correct at time of publishing. Some properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office. ●

Seton1,687sqmintheheartofCockatoo,thisinviting3-bedroomhomeofferscomfortableliving justashortwalkfromthetownship,schools&publictransport.Afrontverandahwelcomesyouinto theopenplanliving,dining&kitchen,featuringfloatingfloors,timberbenchtops,afarmhousesink, gascooktop,dishwasher&excellentstorage.Gasductedheatingprovidesyear-roundcomfort. Aflexibleadjoiningroomisidealasathirdbedroom,homeofficeorsecondlivingarea.Upstairs, 2bedroomswithbuilt-inrobesareservicedbyacentralbathroom,whilethelaundry&separate toiletaddconvenience.Outside,thespaciousbackyardoffersplentyofroomforchildren&pets, complementedbyalargepoweredstorageshed&ampleoff-streetparking.Afantasticopportunity forfirst-homebuyers,familiesorinvestorsseekingspace,flexibility&aconvenientHillslifestyle.

ContemporaryAcreageLivingwithPremiumFamilyAppeal. Setonapproximately6,015sqm,thisbeautifullifestylepropertyofferstheperfectblendof contemporarycomfort&ruralfunctionality.Thestunningdesignerkitchenfeatureswaterfallstone benchtops,breakfastbar,gascooktop,Smegoven,abundantstorage&recentlyupdatedbutler’s pantry.Soaringceilings,hardwoodfloors&largedoubleglazedwindowsenhancetheopenplan living&diningarea,whileawoodfire,splitsystem&gasductedheatingprovideyear-roundcomfort. Asecondlivingareawithsoaringceilings&floor-to-ceilingwindowsoffersapeacefulretreat.The mainbedroomenjoysdeckaccess,awalk-inrobe&ensuite,whilethreeadditionalbedroomswith built-inrobesareservicedbyafamilybathroom.Outside,threepaddocks,achookhouse,a9mx 13mpoweredshedwithhoist&mezzanine,60,000Lwaterstorage&anauto-startgenerator.

AaronDay M 0407365994 BrennanMileto M 0422996451

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

1LaddSquareEmerald$1,080,000-$1,180,000

Seton6,236sqminasought-afterEmeraldpocketwithdualaccess&leafyviews,thisspacious double-storeyhomeoffersflexibilityforfamiliesofallstages.Twomastersuitesmakeitidealformultigenerationallivingorguests.Downstairsfeaturesaprivatezonewithamastersuite(ensuite,walk-in robe,splitsystem),plustwobedroomswithbuilt-inrobesservicedbyacentralbathroom.Upstairshas beenfullyrenovated,withlight-filledlivingcentredaroundastrikingdouble-sidedwoodfireshared withthemainmasterretreat,completewithwalk-inrobe&luxeensuitewithfreestandingbath& oversizedshower.Theopen-plankitchen&diningincludestimberbenchtops,farmhousesink,double ovens&alargeisland.Slidingdoorsopentoanundercoverentertainingarea.Freshpaint,new carpets&ampleparkingcompletethisprivate,lifestyle-focusedproperty.

TIMELESS CHARM IN THE HEART OF EMERALD

PERFECTLY positioned in one of Emerald’s most desirable locations, this beautifully cared-for character home offers a wonderful combination of charm, comfort and convenience. Set on approximately a quarter of an acre of flat, usable land, this inviting property provides the space and lifestyle appeal that will attract families, downsizers and investors alike.

Enjoy the best of Emerald living with the township just a relaxed two-minute stroll away. Cafes, local shops, schools, parks and public transport are all within easy reach, while the home itself provides a peaceful retreat where you can unwind and enjoy the privacy of your own backyard.

Stepping inside, you’ll immediately appreciate the warmth and character this home has to offer. Featuring three generous bedrooms, a stylishly updated kitchen and comfortable living spaces that beautifully blend original charm with modern improvements, the home is ready to be enjoyed from day one. The light-filled sunroom adds another layer of appeal, creating the perfect spot to relax, enjoy your morning coffee or soak up the afternoon sunshine.

Outside is where this property truly shines. The fantastic undercover entertaining area provides the ideal setting for yearround gatherings with family and friends, overlooking a spacious, flat backyard with endless potential. Whether it’s children and pets enjoying the space, creating your dream garden, or simply relaxing outdoors, there is room for everyone. For those who love a project, the 3.5m x 11m garage and additional 3.5m x 5m storage area offer plenty of room for hobbies, tools and extra storage.

Offering character, convenience and a rare amount of usable land in the heart of Emerald, 3 Benson Street presents a fantastic opportunity to secure a home in a location that continues to be highly sought after.

Property Features:

• Beautifully maintained character home with timeless appeal

• Three spacious bedrooms

Updated kitchen combining style and functionality

• Light-filled sunroom perfect for relaxing

• Covered outdoor entertaining area for yearround enjoyment

• Approximately quarter-acre of flat, usable land

Large garage and additional storage space

Walking distance to Emerald’s shops, cafes, schools and amenities

• Outstanding opportunity in a highly desirable Emerald location ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

VIEWS&ENDLESSPOTENTIAL

Positionedonapproximatelythreeprivateacresinoneofthearea’smostsought-after locations,thissolidlybuiltresidencepresentsanexceptionalopportunitytocreate somethingtrulyspecial.Showcasingbreathtakingpanoramicviews&anenviablesetting, theproperty’sgreatestassetsarethosethatsimplycannotbereplicated.Featuringa sealeddriveway,generousbedroomseachwithBIR’s,awrap-aroundbalcony,adouble carpor,aseparatepoolhousewithaningroundswimmingpoolandspa.

JanBrewster 0409558805

BUILTIN2023,STILLUNDERBUILDERSWARRANTY Architecturallydistinctive,thisprivatethree-levelretreatblendscontemporarycomfort withthepeacefulcharmofthehills.Tuckedawayonjustoveraquarteracreof establishedgardens,thehomeoffersararesenseofseclusionwhilestillbeingmoments fr mtheheart fEmerald.Featuresaflexiblefl rplanthatincludesastunningt p-fl r mainretreat,designer itchenwithS/Sappliances,astri ingst nefireplace,GDH,d ubleglazedwind ws,s aringceilings,extrawatertan f rthegardenands larp wer.

CaitiEllis 0493136937

JacksonAcott 0494142438

Thismeticulouslyrenovatedlow-maintenancehomeboastsallthecomfortsoftoday’s living.Setwithinaprivate&manageable949sqmoffullylandscapedgardens,thisstriking residenceappearsstately&elegantwithinitssurrounds.Featuresincludeahugeluxurious masterretreat,2livingareas,study,crispwhitekitchenwithhigh-endfixtures,covered treetopdeck,openfire,Frenchdoors,amplestoragethroughout,rusticfloorboards, structurallandscapeworksincludingstoneretainingwallsandflagstonepathways.

GrantSkipsey 0418528102

TIMELESSCHARM

$950,000-$1,040,000

Thisbeautifullycared-forcharacterhomeoffersawonderfulcombinationofcharm, comfortandconvenience,andissetonapproximatelyaquarterofanacreofflat, usableland.Propertyfeaturesincludespaciousbedrooms,updatedkitchen,alight-filled sunroom,coveredoutdoorentertainingarea,large3.5mx11mgarage&additional3.5m x5mstoragespace.Thishomepresentsafantasticopportunitytosecureahomeina locationthatcontinuestobehighlysoughtafter.

MickDolphin 0429684522

CaitiEllis 0493136937

SPACIOUS 4 BEDROOM PLUS STUDY, 1/2 ACRE OF LAND AND HUGE SHEDDING

SET on a beautiful near level block with established park like gardens, this much loved and cherished family home has been the backdrop to countless treasured celebrations and happy memories.

Designed with space and versatility in mind, the home offers three generous living zones, including a family area, formal lounge, and an enormous rumpus/billiards room with plenty of space for everyone to relax and entertain.

Accommodation comprises four bedrooms, including a main bedroom featuring a walk through wardrobe area and ensuite and a bonus study or office as well, ideal for those working from home. The large kitchen offers an abundance of built-in cupboards and bench space, seamlessly flowing through to the dining area with ample room for a full sized family dining table. Year round comfort with three split systems for heating and cooling, complemented by a gas heater for added warmth during the cooler months.

Outside, the property has exceptional vehicle accommodation, a carport with direct internal access makes unloading the groceries a breeze on rainy days, while an additional carport, a lock up garage adjoining a substantial four car plus garage complete with concrete floor and power. This will no doubt delight car enthusiasts and tradies!

The stunning gardens are filled with colourful native plants and established shrubs, creating a peaceful setting with plenty of room for children and pets to enjoy. Adding to the sense of space, the property adjoins the pipeline reserve, providing a quiet, grassy neighbour.

Enjoy a picturesque outlook towards the mountain ranges, with the convenience of the Gladysdale Bakehouse at the end of the street, public transport nearby and the local high school all within easy walking distance. Now ready to begin its next chapter, this much loved family home awaits a new generation to create memories of their own.

Spacious4Bedroomplusstudy,1/2acreoflandandhugeshedding!

Setonanear-levelblockwithestablishedgardens,thisspaciousfamilyhomeoffersthreelivingareas, fourbedroomsplusastudy,includingamainbedroomwithwalk-throughrobeandensuite.Thewellappointedkitchenfeaturesamplestorageandadjoinsthediningarea,whilethreesplitsystemsand gasheatingprovideyear-roundcomfort.

Outside,excellentvehicleaccommodationincludestwocarports,alock-upgarageandahuge poweredfour-cargarage,idealfortradiesorcarenthusiasts.Thegardensprovideapeaceful setting,withtheaddedbenefitofadjoiningthepipelinereserveforextraopenspace.Enjoy mountainviews,withtheGladysdaleBakehouse,publictransportandthelocalhighschoolallwithin easywalkingdistance.Amuchlovedhomereadyforitsnextfamily.

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068

FamilyLivinginaConvenientLocation

Thisneat,wellpresentedhomesitsinapicturesqueandcolourfulsettingandisreadyandwaitingto moveinto.Offering3bedroomsplusaspaciouslounge/livingareait’stheidealspottositback,relax andadmirethesceneryandsurrounds,thekitchenareaoffersamplebenchandcupboardspace plusaseparatemeals/diningarea.Headoutsideandyou’respoiltforspacewithloadsofpotential sittingonapprox.1571sqmoflandthereisplentyofscopetoaddyourpersonaltouches.Plentyof thegroundworkhasbeendone,thispropertyisreadyandwaitingforit’snewownerstotakeittothe nextstage.Agreatpropertyofferinggreatvalueinapicturesqueandconvenientlocationsituated justashortstrolltoYarraJunctionsshoppinghub,localschoolsandtransport.

PrivateFamilyRetreat–SpaciousHomeon2.5AcreswithIndoorPool Setonapproximately2.5acresofbeautifullyestablishedgrounds,thisprivatefamilysanctuaryoffers abalanceofpeacefulseclusionandeverydayconvenience.Designedforrelaxedfamilyliving,the spaciousresidenceoffersmultiplelivingzones,generousaccommodation,andtheuniqueluxuryof anindoorswimmingpoolforyear-roundenjoyment.Attheheartofthehome,thecharmingcountrystylekitchenexudeswarmth.Thehomeoffersexceptionallivingspace,includingasubstantial loungeandanadditionallivingarea.Accommodationcomprisesthreegenerouslysizedbedrooms, allfittedwithbuilt-inrobes,whiletheprivatelypositionedmainbedroomfeaturesaspaciousensuite. Astandoutfeatureofthepropertyisthelower-levelindoorswimmingpool,completewithdedicated showerandtoiletfacilities,providingaprivateretreatforrecreationandrelaxationineveryseason.

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068

ACharmingCountryRetreatwithSpectacularViewsandYearRoundComfort Thoughtfullyupdatedwhileretainingitscottagecharm,thehomefeaturesstunningVictorian hardwoodfloors,abundantnaturallight,andacosywoodfirethatcreatestheperfectplace torelax.Theinvitingkitchenispracticalandeasytouse,complementedbygenerousstorage throughoutthehomeandtheconvenienceofaseparatetoilet.Thebespokebathroomshowcases beautifulcraftsmanship,withcustombenchtopsandshelvinghandcraftedfromoriginalhardwood salvagedduringrenovations.Outside,thepropertytrulycomestolife.Thepaveddriveway,solar panels,andwatertanksfurtherenhancethehome’sfunctionalityandsustainability.Natureloverswill delightintheabundantbirdlifeandwildlifethatregularlyvisittheproperty.Thisdelightfulproperty offersalifestylewherecomfort,beauty,andnatureexistinharmony.

COMFORTABLE FAMILY LIVING

SET in a peaceful Monbulk location, 20 McAllister Road offers a warm and inviting three bedroom home with charming period detail and a generous outdoor setting perfect for everyday family living. With a practical single level floorplan, spacious rear yard and excellent entertaining options, this home is ready to enjoy while still offering plenty of scope to make it your own over time.

Inside, the home features a light filled lounge and dining area with high ceilings, decorative cornices and a cosy wood fire, creating a comfortable central living space. The updated kitchen is a standout, offering excellent storage, generous bench space, modern cabinetry, quality appliances, and a large freestanding oven, making it both stylish and practical for daily use.

Accommodation includes three well sized bedrooms, each enjoying good natural light, while the central bathroom with a modern vanity, black tapware, bath and shower. A separate laundry adds further convenience, while ducted heating throughout provides year round comfort.

Outdoors, the property continues to impress with a large covered entertaining area that runs along the rear of the home, ideal for outdoor dining, relaxing or hosting friends and family. The backyard offers a great sense of space with established greenery, lawn area, garden beds and a shed for additional storage. A long carport provides secure off street parking, adding to the home’s overall practicality.

Combining character, comfort and outdoor appeal, this inviting Monbulk home is ideal for first home buyers, downsizers, young families or investors looking for a well presented property in a convenient Hills location close to local shops, schools and everyday amenities.

as

SPORT

Tour de France debut

By Mikayla van Loon

It’s considered the largest and most prestigious road cycling race in the world, so naturally it tops the list for most cyclists as the dream race.

That dream came true for Lilydale-born and raised Kelland O’Brien, who made his debut appearance at this year’s Le Tour de France on Saturday 4 July as part of Team Jayco AlUla.

“Dream come true to make it here,” O’Brien posted to social media.

The heavily Australian-outfitted team lined up for the opening stage, the Grand Depart, in Barcelona, marking day one of the 23-day race.

It was a 19.6-kilometre team time trial (TTT) through the Spanish city, and was the first TTT to mark the beginning of the Tour in 55 years, last held in 1971.

“Starting with a team time trial is a special way to start a Grand Tour, hopefully we can start well and build the momentum as we get deeper into the race,” Tour veteran and former green jersey winner Michael Matthews told GreenEdge Cycling.

Heralding several track titles, O’Brien started transitioning to road cycling in 2020, winning his first road national championship in the under-23 criterium.

Following his Tokyo Olympics appearance, where he won team pursuit bronze, O’Brien signed with GreenEdge Cycling in 2022, beginning his professional road racing career.

But his track experience was a key asset to round out the capabilities and diversity of the team’s rider list.

“O’Brien will bring serious power to the squad, with the team pursuit gold medallist (Paris Olympics) set to play a key role in the team time trial on the opening stage in Barcelona,” GreenEdge Cycling said of the debutant.

“We have a very strong, well-rounded team for this year’s Tour de France,” sport director Mat Hayman said.

“It’s pretty exciting to have a couple of riders who are starting their first Tour de France with Kell and Felix (Engelhardt), it’s a massive step for them in their careers.”

Team Jayco AlUla selected a core of five Australians to fit out the eight-rider roster, with Tour de France stage winners Michael Matthews and Ben O’Connor leading the line-up.

O’Brien’s fellow bronze medal winner and

Luke

returns to the Tour for the second time.

Road captain Luke Durbridge marks his twelfth and final Tour de France, bringing invaluable knowledge and guidance to the team.

Pascal Ackermann and Felix Engelhardt from Germany, and Mauro Schmid from Switzerland, add international blood to the Australian team.

“We’re really excited about the team we have put together for the Tour de France this year. This line-up has riders capable of competing on every stage over the three weeks, from the flat sprint stages through to the high mountains,” head of performance Gene Bates said.

“It’s always a challenge to put together a team for the biggest race on the calendar, you have to make some big calls, but we believe between the performance team and the sport directors we

have selected a truly competitive squad.

“As an Australian team, having a strong Australian core amongst the eight riders is also something we are proud of as we line-up for our 15th Tour de France as an organisation.”

The 23-day Tour visits 37 stage towns and sites, starting in Spain and then entering France, with 10 locations appearing for the first time.

The final stage winds up at the famed Champs-Élysees in Paris on 26 July.

There are 21 stages, including seven flat stages, four hilly stages, eight mountain stages with five summit finishes at Gavarnie-Gèdre, at Plateau de Solaison, Orcières-Merlette and Alpe d’Huez (twice), one team time trial and one individual time trial. There will be two rest days.

In total, 184 riders representing 23 teams are competing.

Local footy leagues lend support after tragic death

Victorian metropolitan football leagues of Victoria have united to express their deepest sympathies to the family and community of the beloved Epping footballer Nathan Fitzgerald after he passed away while on end-of-life care.

A rare incident saw the 29-year-old teacher and footballer sustain a serious brain injury during a Northern Football Netball League (NFNL) Reserves match last weekend.

“Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with the family and loved ones of the individual involved, as well as the players, coaches, officials, volunteers, spectators and the wider football community who have been impacted by this devastating event,” read the joint statement.

“Australian Rules Football is built on community, connection and the wellbeing of those who participate.”

“While our leagues are fierce competitors on the field, we stand together in times of tragedy.”

“The football community is one family, and today we stand alongside the NFNL as they support those most affected.”

The statement acknowledged the extraordinary efforts of the emergency services, first responders, medical personnel, club officials and volunteers who responded on the day and over the past few days.

“The health, safety and wellbeing of everyone involved in grassroots sport remains our highest priority,” it read.

The leagues have encouraged anyone affected to seek support and to check in on family members, teammates, colleagues and friends during this difficult time.

As the news sent shockwaves through the football community, a GoFundMe set up in support of Mr Fitzgerald has already raised over $100,000 to ease financial pressures for his family.

The community is encouraged to seek out assistance either through their local GP or another trusted health professional if they or someone they know needs support at this time.

Formal organisation services are

Giro d’Italia stage winner,

Plapp,

Kelland O’Brien made his debut at the 2026 Tour de France. (AAP Image/Matt Turner)

Team Jayco AlUla riders compete in the first stage of the Tour de France in Barcelona, Spain, 4 July 2026. (EPA/Guillaume Horcajuelo)

Two wins for the Eagles

After a week off, the Lilydale Eagles were back in action as the Masters hosted Bayswater and the Seniors headed to Croydon to take on Ralph’s Alps.

The club welcomed debutants Tim Wilson and Pete Hodgkinson in the Masters.

Bayswater mustered the first shot of the day in the Masters after four minutes had lapsed but it was easily gathered by Daniel Dickson, who nursed a troublesome ankle in goals.

Five minutes later they caught the Eagles on the counter again but after chasing it down and cutting inside, the Bayswater attackers’ shot forced a save from Dickson but never looked like scoring.

Against the run of play, Lilydale opened the scoring minutes later after winning a free kick just inside the attacking half. Byron Loveless took on the shot and a massive deflection from the Bayswater defender wrong-footed the goalkeeper.

They weren’t going to wait for a response, though and immediately pushed forward from kickoff, resulting in a chipped shot which had Dickson scrambling but went wide.

It would be a while before the next attempt on goal but it was a golden opportunity for Bayswater that was spurned with a shot that flew high and wide.

It would be Lilydale to make it 2-0 in the 27th minute after a deep corner. The ball was recovered and recycled to the top of the box and put back in the mixer by Allen Dickson. It fell to the feet of Piotr Swiatkiewicz who swivelled and stuck it into the bottom corner.

Bayswater threatened again through their tricky left winger who won the ball in the corner and burnt two Lilydale defenders before attempting to square it only for his pass to be cut out for a corner.

In the 38th minute, Bayswater again looked dangerous on the left but saw one shot blocked and the rebound blazed over the bar as the Eagles defence remained resolute.

Lilydale had another massive chance when Bayswater failed to deal with a long ball that made its way to Swiatkiewicz, whose shot flashed across the face of goal.

Unfortunately, Lilydale couldn’t hold out until halftime and conceded in the final minute after Archie Rizal won the ball back in the box and scored.

After the break, the danger man Swiatkiewicz popped up again as he met a Loveless corner but his header only looped up and over.

Bayswater would have a half chance on a counter-attack, but the shot was dragged wide.

Lachlan Dickson had a shot blocked from the edge of the box that went for a corner.

After pinning Bayswater deep, Lilydale would find a third after some nice work from Loveless on the right wing. He played it to Daniel Dickson on the edge of the, who had swapped outfield for the second half, and he swept it home into the side netting.

In the 67th minute, Loveless came close when his shot rattled the post and the Eagles had a

penalty shout waved away when Wilson was wiped out chasing the rebound. Some desperate defending saw two more resulting shots kept at bay.

Bayswater tried a long-range volley but it was a real up-and-down effort caught by substitute goalkeeper Daniel Nicholls.

Blackburn would make it interesting in the 74th minute after Lachlan Dickson gave away a free kick on the right wing just outside the box. Emlyn Almrott caught out the Eagles with a shot that snuck in at the near post to make it 3-2.

Almrott lined up another free kick minutes later but Daniel Dickson swept across and cut it out.

Blackburn would keep pushing but only mustered one shot from distance which went wide, while the Eagles had three difficult chances which could have given them some breathing space that weren’t taken.

They held out for the win and will travel to Berwick next week.

The Seniors looked to continue on their good form and maintain the perfect coaching record of injured goalkeeper Callum Ludwig since he took the reins.

In a game they expected to win, the Eagles had an early scare when their opponents pumped it forward from kick off but an acrobatic effort went wide.

Jake ‘Digga’ Dioguardi had Lilydale’s first chance after he took down a long switch of play, cut inside and shot but it was straight at keeper Trent Meacham.

They would have an early breakthrough after seven minutes however when Mark Vanderkol drove through the middle of the park and slipped in Digga with a lovely pass and he was able to finish from a tight angle.

The Alps would respond and fashion a decent attempt on goal after Lilydale failed to clear their lines, forcing Daniel Dickson into a diving save.

Lilydale would get back on the attack and Digga managed to pick out a nice pass across the box through a crowd to Marcus Salvitti arriving on the edge of the box but he blazed it over.

Right back recruit Lachlan Friswell would go on a marauding run through the middle of the park before playing in Lucas Cordedda but the keeper got to it first and claimed it cleanly.

Tarin Cooper won a corner in the 20th minute which he would step up to take, whipping in a lovely ball that would be met by an unmarked Kaiden Deany-Smith and nodded home.

Lilydale’s dominance continued, with Cooper getting to the byline and putting in a dangerous low cross which required a hand from the keeper to stop it getting through to Digga.

Minutes later and the Eagles wingers continued to give the Alps fits as Digga raced through on goal but he put his curling shot wide.

Connor Hartman would find himself in a bit of space on the edge of the box after coming on, but his left-footed shot went wide.

Bailey Hone would test the keeper from left back after beating a pair of players but the angle was too tight to trouble Meacham.

Salvitti would again try his luck in the 37th minute but scuffed it to the left.

The Alps would have their best chance of the

Croqueters make the most of winter’s sun

It’s always a good time at the Lilydale Croquet Club on Thursdays, even on a chilly winter’s day.

half after counterattacking down the right wing but the winger would take the shot on himself and miss to the left.

Cooper would try to turn from provider to scorer but blazed his shot over.

After another counter, the Alps would get their second shot on target from the left winger but it didn’t trouble Dickson.

At the break, Lilydale knew they were in a comfortable position but gave their opponents too many chances and left a few goals out there.

They would right the latter within three minutes of the restart as Hartman slipped Cooper in on goal through the middle and he calmly tucked his shot into the bottom corner.

Deany-Smith would give away a free kick in a dangerous area after he handled the ball right outside the box. A good ball was whipped in and Lewis Harvey got his glancing header on target to make it 3-1.

They would fashion another chance shortly after but the shot from the left winger was easily gathered by Dickson.

Two minutes later and the Alps had a big chance go begging after scuffing a shot inside the box from a ball dropping down from up high.

Vanderkolk would try a shot from distance but it was always rising and went over the bar.

Lilydale had a big chance to score again when Cooper and Digga combined. Digga’s shot forced a save from Meacham and Cooper got onto the rebound but Meacham recovered well to save it with his foot.

This resistance would be short-lived, however, after Salvitti chased a ball down the left following a corner and dug out a cross. Cordedda couldn’t meet it and Meacham didn’t get enough on his punch but there was Deany-Smith who had stayed up after the corner to tap it into an empty net.

Centre backs shouldn’t take penalties and they also shouldn’t take free kicks either, as proven by Deany-Smith in the 78th minute when he took one from the edge of the box looking for his hat trick. His shot looked more like a clearance as it flew away from goals.

After whining to come on as a winger, Bailey Hone tried to make it worthwhile by picking Byron Loveless out with a ball across the box but his shot went over from the edge.

From the goal kick, Dickson was forced into a big save as the attacker raced in on goal.

Hartman would have two attempts from the edge, one blocked and the other flying over.

Hone would justify his substitution after keeping the ball with some tidy footwork in the box before squaring it to Loveless who slid in to score.

Hone tried to get on the scoresheet himself but saw his shot slide agonisingly wide and then had another effort saved by a strong hand from Meacham.

The resulting corner was floated into the box and it was Deany-Smith again who would meet it as the Alps defence fell apart around him to complete his hat-trick.

The Eagles would have a couple more speculative efforts but it would end 6-1 and they will prepare to take on the better Blackburn side next week.

Social players donned their beanies and their gloves, as well as a few layers for warmth, as they took to the green on Thursday 9 July. Star Mail photographer Stewart Chambers made his way down to the club to capture some of the friendly competition.

Hat-trick hero Kaiden Deany-Smith celebrates his third goal. (Callum Ludwig: 565166)

The Masters belt out their team song. (Callum Ludwig: 565166)

Debutant Tim Wilson is wiped out in the box. (Callum Ludwig: 565166)

By Callum Ludwig

Social croqueters Mike Gilsenan, Graeme Rhodes, Mick Crawley, Pat West, Liz Stewart and Michelle Loughhead making the most of the winter sun. (Stewart Chambers: 564615)

Graeme Rhodes lines up his shot nicely. (564615)

Pat West sends her ball down the court. (564615)

Mike Gilsenan watches intently. (564615)

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Q&A

Ludwig

1.

2. If you were stranded on a desert island,

water and wait for rescue!

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

Plitviče Lakes National Park in Croatia.

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

2015 green Holden Barina Spark called Ivy.

5. Where would you like to retire?

By the beach.

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

Witchetty grub in the Northern Territory. Tasted like eggs and I don’t like eggs, so no.

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

Teleportation and I would travel the world.

8. What movie title matches your job role?

Mr. Fix It.

9. Which historical figure would you most like to date, and why?

I really don’t know so I’ll go with Margaret BourkeWhite, she was a photographer during World War Two so would be interesting to ask about what she saw.

10. What is the craziest thing you believed as a child? That Port Adelaide wears grey (turns out I was colourblind).

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

I’d let my dog know she can stop waiting for scraps from dinner before eating her own cause she isn’t getting any!