Mail - Mountain Views Star Mail - 14th July 2026

Fabulous 50

By Oliver Winn

Even after 50 years, the wheels of the Upper Yarra community continue to turn and it shows no sign of stopping.

The Rotary Club of Upper Yarra celebrated its 50th anniversary on 5 July at Oscar’s on the Yarra, marking a significant moment in the club’s history.

With great food, company and sentiment, the event was a hit for the 50 people who rocked up.

Rotary Club of Upper Yarra secretary Phil Pomaroff said it was lovely reflecting on the achievements and contributions the club has made to the local area.

“We had a few people from the original charter going back 50 years ago. When the guests spoke, it was really telling that they knew quite a bit of history,” he said.

Federal Casey MP Aaron Violi and State Eildon MP Cindy McLeish attended the celebration alongside Yarra Ranges Council O’Shannassy Ward councillor Jim Child.

Read more on page 11

Healesville mother says 12-year battle with TAC reflects...

‘Systemic errors’

By Gabriella Vukman

For Healesville resident Tamara Tesseyman, what began as a devastating road accident in 2013 has evolved into an ongoing struggle with Victoria’s Transport Accident Commission (TAC).

A struggle that Ms Tesseyman said has left her family fighting not only the lasting effects of catastrophic injuries, but also the system designed to support them.

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 require.

“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.

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

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

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

With a submission to the inquiry from the Australian Medical Association maintaining the TAC’s administrative, payment, billing and medico-legal processes have become unnecessarily burdensome and unpredictable, TAC clients and medical professionals are concerned about delays to timely access to care.

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.”

Read more on page 4

The Rotary Club of Upper Yarra celebrated its 50th anniversary with members past and present. (Supplied)

Lessons ‘forgotten’: Wife

By Oliver Winn

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Ombudsman sues G8 Education for alleged underpayments

By Callum Ludwig

The Fair Work Ombudsman has announced legal action against the embattled early-childhood education provider G8 Education, which runs forprofit 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

CHARTERS & TOURS

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, wellresourced corporate employers to allegedly un-

derpay 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.”

“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.”

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.

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

Properties raided

By Oliver Winn

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

The properties were linked to an industrial relations consultancy set up by former Mongols gang boss Tyrone “Little Ty” Bell, as revealed by an article in The Age.

It came after detectives from Taskforce Hawk executed five search warrants as part of an inves-

tigation into a series of alleged financial offences.

Mr Bell’s consultancy, Dynamis Health Safety Relations, was set up in November 2024 after he lost his position as CFMEU representative over his links to the Mongols.

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.

Firies battle ‘incredibly complex’ blaze

By Oliver Winn

A number of Yarra Valley CFA brigades provided backup to a huge blaze at a storage facility in Scoresby on 3 July.

Emergency services worked tirelessly from 8am to around 5.20pm battling the “complex and challenging” fire.

The blaze engulfed around 60 per cent of the large industrial facility and it required aircraft support to put out the fire.

47 CFA units responded on scene alongside multiple units from FRV, with Ambulance Victoria and Victoria Police.

A CFA spokesperson said those who were in the immediate vicinity of the fire were instructed to take action for their safety.

“A Watch and Act message was issued for Knoxfield, Rowville and Scoresby. This has since been downgraded.

“Anyone located in the Industrial Area was recommended to close all exterior doors and windows, turn off heating and cooling systems, close fireplaces and vents,” a CFA spokesperson said.

The Yellingbo CFA’s rehab truck helped firefighters recover by replacing essential nutrients, while also monitoring breathing apparatus crews over the day.

Additional (BA) cylinders were supplied by Hillcrest CFA to ensure firefighters’ oxygen levels were at full capacity.

The Scoresby CFA said on social media the fire was “incredibly complex” and posed significant risk to firefighters.

“Self-storage facilities present significant risks to firefighters because the contents of each storage unit are unknown.

“The methods or agents required to extinguish a fire in one unit can potentially react with materials stored in neighbouring units, creating additional hazards and making the operation far more challenging,” the Scoresby CFA said.

More than 250 firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze.

A CFA spokesperson said crews remained monitoring the scene for hotspots after the fire was deemed safe.

“The cause of the fire is still under investigation.”

IN BRIEF

Donna Buang hoons targeted 13 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 the offences detected.

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.

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

Sediment warning

Construction site managers throughout the Yarra Ranges are being urged to prevent sediment runoff into the Yarra River and other important waterways.

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) warned about the impacts sediment runoff has when it enters waterways on 6 July.

“Erosion and sediment can pollute our waterways, impact water quality and harm the animals and plants that live there,” EPA executive director operations Rachel Gualano said.

“When sediment gets into our waterways, the fine particles make them cloudy. That can cut the amount of sunlight that gets through, as well as clogging fish gills and smothering plants, fish eggs and insect larvae.”

Extra caution should be exercised for construction sites near the Yarra River to minimise the risk of erosion and run-off.

“It’s not good enough to say that heavy rain wasn’t expected; it’s predictable and should be planned for. There are many steps you can take to minimise the risk of erosion and run-off. EPA has guidance on these, and we won’t hesitate to issue notices and fines to those who haven’t done everything practicable to manage the risk of pollution.”

For more information on erosion, sediment and the law, EPA has information on its Erosion and Sediment web page, which can be accessed here: epa.vic.gov.au/erosion-and-sedimentand. To report sediment or other types of pollution, contact the EPA’s 24/7 pollution hotline on1300 372 842 or visit the EPA online at its pollution-reporting portal: epa.vic.gov.au/makereport.

Be prepared for the AusAlert

The Australian Government’s new national warning system AusAlerts will be trialled on Monday 27 July at around 2:00 pm.

This system uses the latest technology to send emergency messages to compatible devices like mobile phones, tablets and smartwatches. Ensure you can receive AusAlerts by installing the latest software update and restarting your device.

Find more information, including times and dates for all tests, at: ausalert.gov.au

Many Yarra Valley brigades were on the scene. (Yellingbo CFA)

Yellingbo CFA’s rehab unit supported firefighters.

The structure fire occurred at a storage facility in Scoresby. (Boronia CFA)

Family’s battle with TAC

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 claimants 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).

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

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

Precinct progress powers on

By Oliver Winn

Works are progressing well at the Seville Community Precinct with construction expected to finish in early 2027.

Seville Community Precinct president Rod Pearse said on 10 July the precinct was finally taking shape.

“The concrete’s all been poured, the foundations have all been done and they’re currently putting the metal structure up at the moment… it’s exciting for us to see that,” he said.

Though a few minor speedhumps saw its initial December 2026 completion date pushed back to February next year, Mr Pearse said the construction team worked “extremely well” to navigate it.

“There were a couple of things early on with how far they had to drill down and so forth, and that was just one of the things that popped up.

“During that time they just had to do some more investigation work before they progressed,” he said.

The Seville Community Precinct will host several local sporting clubs alongside the Seville Community House to provide a centralised hub for everyone.

“It’s going to seat 250 people and keep a lot of those events that we had to go down the line to do, we could actually have those right here in the middle of town, which is going to be great,” he said.

He said a centralised hub would be a “real benefit” to the rest of the community.

“Schools around the precinct… they can actually have their functions there, [and] the CFA as well. People can wakes there as well,” he said.

The precinct was funded by a $5 million State Government grant four years ago by Minister Harriet Shing.

Now, the Seville Community Precinct committee are pushing its gala event as the construction progresses forward.

“I think the exciting part was to talk about it, but to actually see it’s up and going and out of the ground and people can see progress in that community.

“People are also aware now that it’s getting away from a sporting precinct to a true community precinct. We’ll bring a lot more parties to get involved in it,” he said.

The new precinct will also unify the rest of the sporting clubs and organisations.

With Mr Pearse as president, Seville Junior Football Club’s Paul Bailey as secretary, and Seville Tennis Club’s Ray van Weert as treasurer, the precinct committee has brought them together for a common cause.

“What we’ve done, is the sporting clubs and the community house have really come

Warburton Golf Club takes steps to alleviate concerns

Through ongoing conversations with local resident Tony Rostron, the Warburton Golf Club has done everything in its power to alleviate concerns about dust on its adjoining easement.

Mr Rostron has significant health concerns, including a serious respiratory condition, and the dust kicked up during drier months had been creating health and quality of life concerns for him over a period of months.

Warburton Golf Club president Dale Horrobin said they concluded that the club had deliveries of sand, diesel and gravel for the golf course a total of less than 10 times a year.

“In addition, two to three volunteers would access the course once a week for gardening, including access by our course supervisor, we estimate the number of visits to be two to five a day, significantlylessthatTony’sclaimof20-30aday,”hesaid.

“I have had many emails from Tony since these changes complaining of ongoing vehicles, one morning last week he claimed there were 10 vehicles on one hour on a day when the golf course was closed and no employees or volunteers were on site.

“We can only suspect these may be local residents using lane access or unauthorised visitors to the golf course.”

The easement which connects the golf club to Surrey Road, Warburton is owned by Melbourne Water and any capacity to conduct works lies within them. When asked by the Star Mail initially, Melbourne Water did not respond to questions about whether they would explore a possible solution or whether they were aware of any other reasons for use of the easement, which were either permitted or not permitted.

Mr Horrobin said to accommodate Tony’s concerns, they have reduced visits by redirecting trucks to another entry point and arranged for volunteers to use the clubhouse entry.

“We have also agreed to gravel the lane at Tony’s request,” he said.

“We are doing everything possible to cater to Tony’s needs but we are limited to the extent that the land is owned by Melbourne Water, not the golf club.

“Only Melbourne Water can bitumen the lane to completely eliminate dust.”

together for one goal.

“And that’s taken down all those barriers of being such a sporting place to actually now being all about the community,” Mr Pearse said.

He also noted the Yarra Ranges Council’s involvement throughout the precinct’s development.

“The other part too is council have been exceptional through this process as well and been extremely supportive. That’s been extremely well received by our community as well, what the council put in,” he said

He described the Seville Community Precinct as a “whole new way” of looking at what a community hub can provide.

“There’s no egos involved in this at all, it’s the best thing for our community,” he said.

The Seville Community Precinct Committee celebrate recent progress at the hub’s future site. (Supplied)

The committee holding mockup designs of the precinct. (Supplied)

The easement to the left of 11 Surrey Road, Warburton, which leads to the Warburton Golf Club. (File: 560534)

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).

Wilson brings promises

By Gabriella Vukman

Opposition Leader and Member for Kew Jess Wilson promised the Yarra Ranges greater investment in the state’s regional infrastructure and a crackdown on corruption during her visit to Healesville on 8 July.

Ms Wilson’s drop-in to the Healesville Hotel to chat with local industry and not-for-profit organisations marked day 18 of her Fresh Start tour across Victoria.

Among those attending the session were chief executive officer of Tourism East Louise Scott representatives from the Yarra Valley Community Foundation, the Healesville Traders Association and other local organisations.

After travelling through the Yarra Ranges and the Eildon Electorate, Ms Wilson noted deteriorating roads had been one of the biggest issues she had noticed.

“The thing that really struck me as I have been driving through is the state of our roads,” she said.

“I knew they were bad, but I didn’t expect them to be as bad as what they are.”

Ms Wilson said a Liberal and Nationals Government would guarantee at least 25 per cent of state infrastructure spending would be directed to regional Victoria, compared with what she noted as the current figure of 12 per cent.

Maintaining the increased investment would be funded by tackling corruption and reducing cost overruns on major infrastructure projects; Ms Wilson also added that the additional funding would be directed towards roads, healthcare, schools and emergency services.

“We are going to end corruption,” she said.

“We are going to have a Royal Commission, and we are going to track down every single cent.”

When questioned on how quickly those savings could be realised, Ms Wilson said a Royal Commission would be established “within days” of taking office if a Liberal-National government were to be elected, alongside new construction oversight measures.

Beyond infrastructure, Ms Wilson outlined

broader election priorities including recruiting an additional 3000 police officers, payroll tax relief for businesses, land tax relief and abolishing the Emergency Services Tax.

Public Transport also featured in discussions, with Ms Wilson turning to bus services as a potential “quick fix” for Victorians who don’t feel well connected.

Tourism East chief executive officer Louise Scott said visits from political leaders were an important opportunity to highlight both the challenges and opportunities in the region.

“Getting a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities that the region presents is vital,” she said.

“The Yarra Ranges is a phenomenal part of Victoria and just an hour from Melbourne, if that.”

Ms Scott said she was keen to chat to Ms Wilson about the importance of ongoing government support in the region’s tourism sector.

“The ongoing funding from government, both local and state, is really key to our success at Tourism East,” she said.

“It gives the industry the confidence to invest in us and the area as well.”

Chief executive officer of the Yarra Valley Community Foundation and member of the Healesville Traders Association, Charlie Simson said she attended to hear Ms Wilson’s vision for the state.

“I am curious to hear what Jess has to say.”

“In particular, I am very strongly in favour of a powerful democracy, so having a strong opposition is incredibly important for Victoria, and we haven’t had that,” she said.

The Yarra Ranges comprises the state electorates of Croydon, Eildon, Evelyn, Monbulk, and Warrandyte.

With the state election fast approaching, shire locals will be keeping a keen eye on what the region’s candidates have to offer.

Ms Wilson was keen to chat with locals about their visions for the area. (Supplied).

Member for Eildon, Cindy McLeish also attended the event. (Gabriella Vukman: 565241).

Call for consistent funding

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 projects. 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 Rang-

es 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 services, 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 support the neighbourhood 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.”

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 people 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.”

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

Champion of business retires

By Oliver Winn

Yarra Ranges Enterprise Centre’s (YREC) executive director is “leaving on a high” after leading the business incubator for over a decade.

Having nurtured over 130 small businesses in the Upper Yarra, Alison Fitzgerald’s 12 year tenure has nurtured a wide range of budding businesses.

She said she was “sad but excited” to be handing over the executive role to someone new at YREC.

“I feel like I’ve built a bit of a little family here and, you know, I feel like the mother hen of sorts, nurturing people and their businesses,” she said.

“I feel like I have done a lot and achieved a lot in my 12 odd years, but it’s probably time for someone new to come in with new ideas and new experiences and just take YREC to a different level.”

YREC is a not-for-profit business incubator which supports the development of small and micro businesses within the Yarra Ranges Council.

The organisation currently hosts businesses such as the successful Jigsaw Jumps, 7000 Consulting and Beauty on the Yarra, among others.

Ms Fitzgerald said her favourite part about her job was the people she got to work with.

“The most amazing thing is to see people come in with an idea… and we help them grow as people as well as a business. Then they move on to bigger and better things, that just fills my heart,” she said.

She said the business community will still stay in her heart after she steps down.

“That’s something that I’ll take with me - that doesn’t end when I leave YREC. I’m really keen to be still part of that community,” she said.

Ms Fitzgerald started as executive director when a chance encounter with Warburton Advancement League president Jeff Gill saw her take on the role.

When she joined, she said the organisation “needed a bit of TLC”

“I was thrown in the deep end a little bit.

When I got here it was a bit of a shock to the system. There was not much happening, no one was around… It was quite run down.

“It was very challenging…. But I plotted along… started working on the maintenance and building relationships with the community,” she said.

After a cancer scare in 2018 and following the impacts of Covid-19, she said there’s been a growth in tenants. She also had to fundraise to buy the property after the State Government looked to sell.

“We got through Covid-19, lost a few tenants, but then incredibly gained more tenants after Covid-19 because a lot of young people decided

to move up to Warburton and start a business because they didn’t want to work for corporate anymore.”

Since then, Ms Fitzgerald said YREC has invested in capital improvements and improving assets for the for the good of the tenants and the community.

“It’s been very much, ‘Let’s not just band-aid fix things, let’s do things properly’,” she said.

Her goal with small businesses was not only to support their growth, but to retain them once they’ve set up.

She pointed to three separate businesses in Warburton that moved from YREC’s rooms to buildings in Warburton.

“We got to retain those services within Warburton. So that’s been very important to me, and I think knowing the community is there to support these businesses, that helps shape what we do,” she said.

Looking forward, Ms Fitzgerald said her priorities lay with her health and family.

“If I want to work, there’ll be lots of work. But at the moment, my husband’s retired and because of that year of cancer, I really cherish every single day and am so grateful that I’m still here and well.

“I want to focus on my health, get on my bike. I really want to get on my bike and ride that rail trail. That’s my big challenge,” she said.

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Alison Fitzgerald nurtured and developed 135 small businesses over her 12 years at YREC. (Supplied)

No better time to foster

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 face-to-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 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 period 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 sur-

render 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 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

The Coldstream Animal Aid Team with some furry foster-ready friends. (Phillip, Trot-Shots photography).

Head to Animal Aid Coldstream’s Facebook Page and or website for more information on fostering a pet. (Ivan Kemp, File: 547783).

Rotary celebrates 50 years

By Oliver Winn

The Rotary Club of Upper Yarra celebrated its 50th anniversary on Sunday 5 July, marking five decades of continuous community service.

Keeping the numbers consistent, 50 people turned up at Oscar’s on the Yarra for the event to reflect on the club’s legacy.

Rotary Club of Upper Yarra secretary Phil Pomaroff said every person who attended had a deep connection with the community.

“We had a few people from the original charter going back 50 years ago. When the guests spoke, it was really telling that they knew quite a bit of history,” he said.

Over the years, a strong connection between members and the community has been the glue

that holds the club together.

“It’s obviously the camaraderie, the social aspects and doing something for the community, which drives us, this common role, service before self in Rotary,” Mr Pomaroff said.

Yarra Ranges Council O’Shannassy Ward councillor Jim Child attended and spoke of the club’s contribution to Rotary Park, the library and station in Yarra Junction.

Mr Pomaroff said it was good to reinforce the club’s significant contributions to the town’s infrastructure and amenity.

“The actual club built the original equipment that went into the park and through the 70s, then they put in the rotunda, barbecue, and then more modern equipment has gone in over time.

“It’s been two to three generations that have

worked on that Rotary Park, which is really brilliant,” Mr Pomaroff said.

Federal Casey MP Aaron Violi and State Eildon MP Cindy McLeish attended the celebration and spoke highly of the Rotary Club of Upper Yarra.

The Rotary Club of Upper Yarra committee also engaged in talks with Cr Child about getting new signage put up at Rotary Park.

“He’s going to address that to see if we can get some signage put up again in there.”

Looking forward, Mr Pomaroff said the club shows no sign of stopping and wishes to keep providing for the community.

“It’s been around for 50 years, we’d like to be around for another 50 years. Obviously most of us won’t be here, but it’d be great to see the club continue.”

Kids sell goods for cash at Koha Kids Pocket Money Market

By Oliver Winn

Warburton’s youth were flipping self-made goods for cash at the Koha Kids Pocket Money Market on Saturday 11 July.

Hosted by the Koha Community Cafe, the market saw children aged seven to 14 selling fidget toys, baked goods, jewellery and much more.

Koha Community Cafe activities coordinator Melanie Bouck said it was a “real variety market” that taught kids valuable life skills.

“The kids are amazing. The older teenage kids, some of them have 3D printers and they sold fidget toys and sensory spinners and stuff like that. You’ve got the younger ones, they made cookies.

“We have lots of scrunchies and secondhand goods, like their clothes and their toys, which is what it’s all about. We’re teaching them sustainability,” Ms Bouck said.

The market was such a hit among the community that Ms Bouck had to book an additional six tables to meet the growing demand.

Even with the extra spots, there was still a waitlist.

“I had to send out an email, [saying] ‘If you’re not going to attend, please let us know, because we have a waiting list and so far everyone’s attending.”

The kids were emboldened with a memo sent

by Ms Bouck which said, “You must keep your parents or guardians supervised at all times”.

The Koha Kids Pocket Money Market also acted as a fundraiser for Koha Community Cafe.

“It’s a fundraiser for Koha and the kids. So they raise their own funds and we get funds,” she said.

Koha Community Cafe also sold some of its famous scones and chai “as an extra” , striking

the balance between raising their own funds and keeping the main focus on the kids.

Ms Bouck said there was “no doubt about it” that the market gave “all kinds of kids” in Warburton a chance to engage with the community in a meaningful way.

“It’s about inclusion for all ages, all ages and abilities. We have an all-abilities friendly hall so

got the opportunity to learn a lot of vital business

we encourage anybody, no matter what age or ability, to come and use it.”

The benefits of the market were two-fold for the kids. Not only did they earn some pocket money, but they also were learning some valuable life skills.

“They learnt how to sell things, how to market it. Particularly with money handling, these are good life lessons, very good life lessons.

“Production, marketing, selling… they probably won’t even know these words yet, but they’ll be all over this from start to finish,” Ms Bouck said. In the end, keeping the cash was just the sweetener to encourage the kids to learn.

“I mean, what a good driver, getting some money… it certainly encourages them to learn that little bit extra, doesn’t it?”

L-R: Paul Coleman, Eildon MP Cindy McLeish, O’Shannassy Ward councillor Jim Child and Casey MP Aaron Violi. (Supplied)

L-R: Rotary Club of Upper Yarra vice president Janice Burney and president Paul Coleman cut the cake. (Supplied)

Kids earned pocket money by selling handmade crafts. (Supplied)

Kids

skills. (Supplied)

Abstract art made affordable at exhibit

By Oliver Winn

An established Yarra Valley artist is exhibiting a foray into abstract expressionism at the Warburton Waterwheel for the month of July.

Its Yarra Valley artist Jerry Osadczuk’s sixth time exhibiting at the waterwheel’s arts space, though this time he said he aimed to make his artwork more accessible to purchase.

“I’m calling it an affordable art fare, for the reason being, my work is usually quite larger than what is at the exhibition.

“I’ve gathered up all the smaller stuff that I’ve got and thought I should try and make it more affordable for just anyone that doesn’t have heaps of money,” Mr Osadczuk said.

His art is difficult to define, existing between the realms of surrealism, abstract expressionism and landscape.

Mr Osadczuk said the exhibition showcases a backlog of smaller paintings he’s accumulated while working on bigger pieces over the last year.

These paintings often started out as testing grounds for new ideas before becoming fully-fledged works.

The reduction in size also means a reduction in price.

“I want to make people who appreciate my work to be able to have something in their home that they can actually afford,” Mr Osadczuk said.

“I like the idea that people can actually take the painting with them if they buy something, they don’t need to wait for the end of the exhibition.”

The paintings are rich with feeling, often combining many materials such as oils, acrylics and shellac to create highly textured forms.

He said his pieces often loosely echo familiar landscapes, inviting the viewer to think more deeply about what the painting may be depicting.

“There’s a lot of artists that do almost photo images of things, which I don’t really believe in doing.

“I like something that’s going to make people think more about what they’re looking at, you know, rather than just take it for granted that it’s the hills in Warburton.”

His inspiration stems from esteemed abstract greats, such as those from the birthplace of Aus-

tralian impressionism, the Heidelberg School of Art.

Others included Australian abstract painters, Russell Drysdale and John Olsen.

Mr Osadczuk initially pursued graphic design right out of high school in 1967, but he put down the paint brushes shortly after to become a chef. By 1991, he found himself working as a chef in Japan, where he also studied the Japanese art of Sumi.

A form of calligraphy, Mr Osadczuk uses Sumi in a lot of his paintings, which can be seen in large, black strokes.

Get, set, snap: UYCE photography competition now underway

By Oliver Winn

Photographers of the Upper Yarra are reaching for their cameras as they look to snap the winner for this year’s Community Calendar Photo Competition.

Entries for the Upper Yarra Community Enterprise’s (UYCE) popular competition opened on Wednesday 8 July and everyone is encouraged to participate.

UYCE senior administration officer Tracey Alderman said entries were already rolling in and she couldn’t be more excited for this year’s competition.

“I just love the fact that they get an opportunity to showcase their talents, as well as put our beautiful area on display for everyone, and then we get this wonderful calendar for the whole year to celebrate our photographers and our beautiful region,” she said.

$2300 worth of prizes are on offer across seven categories, ranging from the Judges’ Choice, prizes for under-18s and People’s Choice Awards.

Ms Alderman said the competition offers a great opportunity for budding photographers to get their work published and win some prize money.

Upon returning to Australia in 2000, he moved to Healesville and discovered Yarra Valley Open Studios and other artist spaces and organisations.

Mr Osadczuk said he most enjoys being at the exhibition and talking to interested visitors about his work.

“I especially enjoy it when I’m there at the gallery. People will talk about it because they want to know what the artist is thinking.”

If you’re interested in finding out what Mr Osadczuk is thinking himself, you can visit the Warburton Waterwheel and view the exhibition for free until the end of July.

“The thing I see about it is, it’s open to everyone, so you’ve got the opportunity for complete beginners right through to a professional.”

“It also still encourages the young and up-and-comings, because I know Upper Yarra Secondary College’s photography students, every year they enter as part of their curriculum.

“I think that’s the beauty of this competition,” she said.

She said it was a way for UYCE (also known as Community Bank Waburton-Yarra Junction) to give back to the people.

“It’s very multifaceted, I suppose, because people get that opportunity to enter, win a prize, then they get the calendar.”

Delivering the feel good news to the winner was also something Ms Alderman looked forward to.

“I got to do that last year and that was fabulous. We all know that sometimes jobs have the negatives attached to it, but no, these are the great phone calls that I get to make,” she said.

Photos must be taken in the Upper Yarra (postcodes 3799 or 3797) by those who live, work, or study in the area.

Some other small requirements are that the photographs can only be in landscape orientation and should have minimal digital enhancements.

The winning snaps then make up the bank’s 2027 community calendar which is free for the community to take.

Ms Alderman said the winning pictures will be displayed in galleries at the bank’s branches. “We also have a BnB above the bank in Warburton. That’s got a display of the previous year’s winning entries.

“We’ve also donated the other print run that we had to Cire, who’ve got them displayed in one of their buildings throughout their hallways,” she said.

Find more detailed information and entry submissions at the link: shorturl.at/ JedTZ. Entries close Wednesday 12 August at 5pm.

His art often echoes familiar landscapes. (Supplied)

The Waterwheel Exhibition is open until the end of July. (Supplied)

Jerry Osadczuk’s paintings are richly textured. (Supplied)

In 2025, 12-year-old Gemma Dearden won the Peoples’ Choice award. (Gemma Dearden)

Red roo’s got a name

Healesville Sanctuary’s newest Red Kangaroo joey has been named Stroodel, in a playful nod to her mother Roobarb and a cheeky twist on the word “roo”

The approximately nine-month-old joey is believed to be female based on visual checks, with her sex to be confirmed during her first vet check at the Sanctuary’s Australian Wild-

life Health Centre.

Keepers say Stroodel is settling well into life with the mob and is already showing plenty of personality, from grazing and sleeping alongside the others, to playfully trying to box aunty Roobix.

Visitors hoping to see Stroodel and the mob at their most active are encouraged to

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.

In 2018, the Outer Eastern Permaculture Swaps 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.

visit Kangaroo Country in the early morning or late afternoon, particularly around feeding time, when the joey may also be seen doing morning zoomies around the habitat.

Visitors can learn more about the Aussie icon at the daily keeper talk at 11.15am.

Check out the Ageing Well Expo

Older residents, along with their family members and friends, are invited to attend the inaugural Ageing Well Expo in Healesville on Saturday, 25 July, from 11 am to 2 pm.

With the theme Conversations That Matter, this free community event aims to connect residents with local services, supports and activities that can help them stay informed, active and connected in their community.

Hosted by U3A Healesville in partnership with Yarra Ranges Council – and supported by Mental Health and Wellbeing Local, Eastern Community Legal Centre and HICCI – the expo will bring together a range of local services, supports and activities in one welcoming and accessible place.

President of U3A Healesville Ethne Pfeiffer said, “We initiated this event to raise awareness of some of the important considerations that begin as we age.”

“Some of our needs can change suddenly, and we may not know who to turn to. Other needs change gradually, and we may require ongoing support. As U3A is an organisation for older people - whether retired, semi-retired or still working - we felt it would benefit the wider community to create opportunities for these conversations between partners, across generations and with friends,” she said.

Yarra Ranges Council supported the event from the outset, with Mental Health and Wellbeing Local, Eastern Community Legal Centre and HICCI also joining as key supporters.

The Community Gardens Network, a group of local community gardens, will also be involved, highlighting the benefits of social connection, physical activity, healthy food options and spending time outdoors.

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 expo has intentionally limited the number of exhibitors to allow visitors time for meaningful conversations about the services and supports available when guidance is needed.

Topics will include social connection, brain health, mental health and wellbeing, grief and loss support, legal considerations, the benefits of gardening and being outdoors, and local transport options.

A space will be available for anyone who would like to have a more private conversation.

“The expo is suitable for anyone who is planning ahead, supporting a loved one or simply wanting to stay connected with their community,” Ms Pfeiffer said.

The event is free, and attendees are welcome to come and go throughout the day.

Whether you are visiting the organic market on River Street, doing your weekly shop or spending time in town, you are encouraged to walk over to the Healesville Senior Citizens Club hall and meet people who work closely with individuals and families across the Yarra Ranges.

When: Saturday, 25 July 2026

Time: 11 am – 2 pm

Where: Healesville Senior Citizens Club, 18 Green Street, Healesville

Healesville Sanctuary’s newest red kangaroo was named Stroodel. (Jo Howell, Zoos Victoria)

Keepers say Stroodel is settling well into life with the mob. (Jo Howell, Zoos Victoria)

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

Attendees socialising at the community swap. (Supplied)

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

Locals of all ages are welcome to attend U3A’s ‘Ageing Well Expo.’ (pexels-askarabayev).

The uncomfortable truth...

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.

WOORILLA WORDS

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 which enable them to function such as pacemakers, 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 discomfort 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.

But modern poets like Mary Oliver dream of a future 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 values within a technology that enhances all aspects 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.

Electricity enabled modern civilisation but created dependence on the power grid. The internet connected the world but made economies reliant on digital networks. Artificial intelligence promises further gains but may deepen dependence on complex systems that are difficult to audit or fully understand.

Artificial intelligence has the potential to improve human society by adding to human capabilities rather than simply replacing them. There are potential benefits in so many areas: health, education, scientific discovery, environmental management and economic productivity. But this must be embraced only with thoughtful governance, ethical standards and broad access to all for its benefits.

The Telstra outage reminds us that technology is not merely a collection of tools; it is the infrastructure upon which much of modern life depends.

The question, therefore, is not whether we should slow technological progress, but whether we are investing enough in resilience, redundancy and governance alongside innovation.

The Telstra outage is likely to prompt renewed scrutiny of Australia’s critical infrastructure, emergency communications and telecommunications resilience. If those lessons lead to more diverse networks, better contingency planning and stronger system design, the disruption may ultimately strengthen Australia’s digital infrastructure for the future.

The Future of Technology by John Ashbery: Perhaps this is the outage we had to have We stand on the brink of something great, As machines hum and screens glow bright. Yet in the midst of progress and change, We must not forget the beauty of the night. Woorilla Poetry Prize 2026 is now receiving entries via Submittable. Visit woorilla.com.au.

AGM for Healesville Historical Society

Notice is hereby given that the Fortieth Annual General Meeting of the Healesville and District Historical Society Incorporated (Registration Number A0001719U, ABN 84 847 909 984) will be held on Friday 24 July 2026, at 2.00 pm in the Community Meeting Room, Community Link, 110 River Street, Healesville.

Warburton OnLine move

Warburton OnLine has made its move to the Adra Redwood Centre and is now open for people to use.It’s located in Room One, open Monday to Friday from 11am-3pm. It offers free use of computers, internet and

MRAG market

Shop local produce such as artisan sourdough, farm-fresh fruit and veggies and gourmet cheese. Or browse aprons, warm jumpers, upcycled clothing and unique art and craft. Freegiantfamilygameskeepthekidsoccupied. Visitors can buy something local to take home

Warburton OnLine is now located at the ADRA Redwood Centre. (File)

Community Course Guide Course Guide

Hub of activity this winter

Seville Community House is set to become a bustling hub of activity this winter, launching an expansive Term Three program designed to combat social isolation and ease cost-of-living pressures for Yarra Ranges residents.

Emphasising inclusivity and a warm, pressure-free environment, the community hub is offering a diverse array of targeted projects, weekly classes, and weekend events catering to all ages and backgrounds.

A major highlight bridging the start of the term is the new Wellness Ways initiative, funded by the Yarra Ranges Council. Running from 22 June to 2 August, the project aims to remove financial barriers by offering 26 free, single-session ‘taste-testers’ across exercise, arts, and mental health.

“When you’re trying to find what that thing is, it can be really hard to keep paying for a whole lot of different things until you find it,” Seville Community House manager Stacie Adams said.

Participants can sample physical activities like boxing, Tai Chi, and dance exercise, or explore creative outlets such as watercolour painting, mosaics, and quilling. Mental health sessions focusing on stress management, breathwork, and better sleep are also available.

Because the sessions require no upfront costs or ongoing commitment, they provide a gentle, low-effort pathway for nervous newcomers to build confidence and try something fresh.

On the last Wednesday of the month, the House becomes a dedicated space for people with chronic illnesses to gather information, connect with others and share their stories.

Beyond these specialised initiatives, the standard weekly timetable offers something for everyone.

Mondays: Locals can escape the chill at the Warm Space for Winter session (9.30am to

12pm) for a hot drink and conversation, participate in the Cooking for Fun, Cooking for One all-abilities social group ($5 donation), or join the Monday Crafters to create sensory items for those with special needs.

Tuesdays: Families can access a Parent-Led Playgroup ($25 per term), while adults can engage in a fortnightly New Retirees Group or express themselves at the evening Art Circle ($5 per week).

Wednesdays and Thursdays: Mid-week activ-

ities include a Sensory Playgroup for young children, a monthly Chronic Illness Support Group, and the popular Solo Diners social group, which meets on the first Thursday of the month to explore local cuisines.

Fridays and Weekends: Fridays feature a subsidised Tech Hub for digital literacy and a Falls and Balance seated exercise series. Weekends bring targeted gatherings, including a SelfWorth and Confidence Group for young teens on 8 August and a Carer’s Get Together on 22

August.

The house also maintains a free, 24/7 accessible Community Pantry to supply essential groceries and prevent food waste. Residents looking to register for the free Wellness Ways sessions can sign up via shorturl.at/ jgRgX. For broader program inquiries, venue hire, or volunteering opportunities, contact the team at 5964 3987 or via email at info@sevillecommhouse.org.au.

Come see what’s on offer at the Seville Community House this winter. (File: 543247)

Community Course Guide Course Guide

What’s on in Term Three

Nestled in the heart of the Yarra Valley, Woori Community House continues to be a welcoming place where locals can learn new skills, build friendships and stay connected. With the launch of its Term Three Program for 2026, the Community House once again highlights its commitment to creating affordable, inclusive and engaging opportunities for people of all ages.

Proudly supporting communities across the WHYLD District, including Woori Yallock, Hoddles Creek, Yellingbo, Launching Place and Don Valley, Woori Community House plays an important role in bringing people together through education, wellbeing, creativity and community connection.

Beyond its diverse program of courses and workshops, the Community House offers valuable everyday services including venue hire, affordable access to computers, internet and printing, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate and stay connected.

Term Three features an exciting range of activities designed to inspire learning, encourage creativity and foster social connection. One of the highlights is the Learn to Play Chess program, running from 3 August to 31 August, offering participants the opportunity to develop strategic thinking, improve concentration and enjoy the timeless game of chess in a welcoming and supportive environment. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refresh your skills, the program is suitable for all experience levels.

Also featured this term is a special Bunnings Women’s Health Week event, providing an opportunity for women within the community to come together, connect and participate in a practical and informative workshop as part of the national celebration of women’s health and wellbeing.

The program also includes a wonderful va-

riety of other courses and activities focusing on health and wellbeing, arts and crafts, technology assistance, fitness, lifelong learning and community engagement. Whether you’re looking to try something new, develop a hobby, improve your digital skills or simply meet like-minded people, there’s something for everyone to enjoy throughout the term.

Social connection remains at the heart of everything Woori Community House does. Popular groups including Monday Mix, Golden Years and the Brewers Club continue to provide welcoming spaces where friendships flourish through con-

Tuesdays

versation, shared interests and regular catchups. The Community House also continues its Knitting and Crochet drop-off program, along with its accessible community library, offering opportunities for creativity and connection.

Fridays remain a busy community hub with visits from the Yarra Ranges Flexi Vehicle Library, while the co-working and study space provides a quiet, supportive environment for anyone needing a place to work, study or simply connect with others.

Looking ahead, Woori Community House continues to evolve alongside the needs of its

community and welcomes suggestions for future courses, workshops and interest groups. If there’s something you’ve always wanted to learn or see offered locally, the friendly team would love to hear from you.

Enrolling is simple. Visit Woori Community House in person, register online or call 03 5964 6857 to secure your place and discover everything Term Three has to offer.

Whether you’re looking to learn, create, connect or simply spend time with your local community, Woori Community House offers a warm welcome for everyone.

Wednesdays Thursdays Fridays

GOLDEN YEARS 16th July -17th September 10.00am -11.30am *10th September Class FREE* Cost: $2.00pp per week YOGA 23rd July -10th September 1.00pm -2.00pm *10th September Class FREE*

Cost: $126.00 for 8 weeks

$113.40 for members Casual: $20 per class

TAX RETURNS

By Appointment Only - FREE Friday July to October 2026

2026 YARRA RANGES LIBRARY FLEXI VEHICLE VISITS

12:30pm - 1:30pm 3rd July, 17th July, 31st July, 14th August, 28th August, 11th September, 25th September.

CO-NETWORKING/STUDY SPACE 24th July -11th September 11.00am - 1.00pm

CREATE

FINANCIAL CAPABILITY INFORMATION SESSIONS 5th August & 2nd September 10.00am to 12.00pm

7.30pm TERM 3 PROGRAM 13th July to 18th September 2026

6.30pm

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)

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. ●

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. ●

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.

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

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)

PENGUIN

From Yarra Glen to Glasgow

By Gabriella Vukman

Yarra Ranges local Rodney Bates is in the final stages of preparation for officiating the lawn bowls tournament in the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

After over 30 years spent as a member of the Yarra Glen Bowls Club, Mr Bates is keen to pursue his love of lawn bowls overseas.

With only two weeks until he heads off to Scotland, Mr Bates said this new venture is a dream come true.

“When I first gained accreditation as an International Technical Official, I had two primary goals, and they were to officiate at a World Championships and a Commonwealth Games

“I was lucky enough to be part of the 2023 World Championships held on the Gold Coast in 2023, and the appointment to Glasgow is as good a bucket list event as I can imagine.”

Having completed his final online preparation meeting on 11 July, Mr Bates is ready to tackle any officiating scenario that comes his way.

“The current Soccer and recent Women’s T20 Cricket World Cups have seen a lot of pressure put on officials at all levels at various stages, and we need to be prepared to deal with similar situations,” Mr Bates said.

“We are aiming to apply rules and laws consistently, and also to be cognisant of the additional pressure players will be performing under, given the stakes of a CG medal are on the line in every game.”

“As an official, we keenly observe how other officials manage themselves regardless of sport.”

Over the last four months, Mr Bates has been honing his officiating skills at a range of state, national and world bowls events, the last being the Australian Open in June, held across the Gold Coast region.

Having attended a slew of online meetings

Trades & Services

with all the selected lawn bowls officials, as well as with the sports organisers for the venue where he will spend most of his time, being the Scottish Events Campus (SEC), Mr Bates now has a greater appreciation for the logistics involved in running the Commonwealth Games.

Overall, Mr Bates has spent the equivalent of seven weeks full-time officiating at these events as part of his preparation for the Commonwealth Games.

When it comes to nerves, Mr Bates said it is more the travel and remaining in good health for the games, rather than officiating itself, that concerns him.

“Once we get through four flights and a bus trip getting to Glasgow without any hitches on the way, I will be more relaxed,” he said.

“There are also some concerns with world events in the Middle East, particularly when we are flying near some areas of danger.”

“We have already had one official pull out late due to personal issues, so now my focus is on re-

maining healthy and injury-free in the lead-up.”

Whilst excited to test his officiating skills, Mr Bates said it is the opening ceremony that he is looking forward to most of all.

“I cannot wait for all the experiences from attending the Opening Ceremony, the atmosphere around the games arenas in and around Glasgow, to testing my skills and experience in one of the most highly anticipated competitions that is on offer for anyone involved with the sport of Lawn Bowls,” he said.

“Whilst hectic, this may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I can’t wait to be involved.”

With the games scheduled to take place on Thursday 23 July, according to Mr Bates, the purpose-built indoor rinks for lawn bowls are just now beginning to be constructed.

Officials have been shown the detailed layouts and introduced to the supporting technology used to run the event.

Mr Bates and the other lawn bowls officials will have approximately one and a half days to

familiarise themselves with the venue, and practice using the equipment before the competition commences.

Lawn Bowls officials will be kept busy with nine sessions held daily over a 12-hour period during the round robin phase of the event, with the last two days dedicated to the medal events.

“We will cover four to five games of around 75 minutes duration as on green markers, timekeepers or umpires,” Mr Bates said.

“When you multiply this preparation across all 10 sports participating, you can appreciate the time, effort, and cost that goes into making the Commonwealth Games such a sought-after part of the sporting calendar.”

With the late location switch from Victoria to Glasgow, organisers of the Commonwealth Games have had less than 18 months to plan and prepare to host.

This season’s Commonwealth Games has appointed over 600 officials across the various sports, along with thousands more volunteers to assist the organisers in the day-to-day management of venues, teams, athletes, and spectators.

Having been appointed as an official in February, despite the slow build-up, Mr Bates said he cannot wait to land in Glasgow and explore the UK.

“After the games, I am taking some time to visit some parts of the UK and Republic of Ireland, and will be back in Australia in mid-August,” Mr Bates said.

“There is so much happening in Scotland whilst there, and hoping to see some parts of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Military Tattoo as well.”

With his bags almost packed, Mr Bates confirmed he is more than ready to represent the Yarra Ranges as an official at this year’s Commonwealth Games.

Rodney Bates at the World Indoor Finals at Ocean Grove in May 2026. (World Bowls)

River Pigs dominate

By David Ball

Yarra Glen Match Report Round 13

The Yarra Glen seniors played against the bottom team, Yarra Junction, in the First Nations round and took control from the start.

In a 9-goal first quarter, the River Pigs dominated in the midfield and had multiple goal kickers up forward.

Kicking into the wind in the second, Yarra Glen added 10 goals whilst keeping the Eagles scoreless.

With the help of the breeze in the third, Yarra Glen added 12 goals as once again Yarra Junction were unable to score.

If not for some errant kicking for goal, the lead could have been larger.

Going into the last quarter with the scores at 31.27 to nil, a 40-goal score line looked possible.

To Yarra Junction’s credit, they never stopped trying and were finally rewarded, scoring 2 goals in the last.

Final scores were: Yarra Glen 37.31 to Yarra Junction 2.3.

Best Players: Luke DeGoldi, Sam Wood, Josh Hawkins, Aussie Smith, Cooper Barbera, Jared McCann. Goalkickers: Josh Hawkins 8, Luke DeGoldi 6, Jared McCann 5, Sam Wood 5, Cooper Barbera 4, Aussie Smith 3, Noah Battle 2 and singles to Blake Binion, Jae Macdonald, Connor Walker, &

Chris Webber.

The Yarra Glen reserves also faced the bottom-placed Yarra Junction, but with only two wins to date themselves, the pressure was on the River Pigs to notch up their third for the season. They started well with the wind behind them, and whilst they dominated play, their conversion let them down as they scored 3.6 for the quarter.

The backline held up well as they kept the Eagles scoreless.

Whilst undermanned, Yarra Junction were very competitive in the second to kick 2.3 to Yarra Glen’s 3.3.

The third quarter was a carbon copy of the first, with the River Pigs adding 3.5 to Junction’s nil.

In a great team effort Yarra Glen finished off the game, increasing their lead to notch up their third win.

Final Scores were: Yarra Glen 12.15 to Yarra Junction 4.5.

Best Players: Oscar Grenfell, Simon Vander Westhuizen, Chris Capuano, Jarrod Hull, Darcy Byron, Dereck Perawati. Goalkickers, Zac Young 4, Sean Kenyon 3, Dereck Perawati 2, Callum Tucker, Matt McKenzie, Dayne Fuss.

The Yarra Glen Under 18’s came up against Olinda Ferny Creek who kicked with the wind in the first quarter. In a promising start the Yarra Glen boys held Olinda to just the 2 goals for the quarter.

First Nations footy celebrated with Burras v Wandin clash

By Alex Woods

It was another fantastic First Nations Traffic Indigenous Round on Saturday 11 July - our fifth major event.

We hosted Wandin this time and had mixed results throughout the day. With both teams wearing their First Nations art on jumpers, we held our sponsors’ and special guests’ lunch and Ganga Giri put on a show with the didgeridoo.

An Acknowledgement of Country was performed by Professor John Evans and our special guest speaker Raph Clarke.

We had a great exchange of gifts between teams.

NETBALL:

A Grade:

■FT: Warburton-Millgrove def by Wandin: 33 - 35.

■Best: Alyssa Walker, Ally Langdon, Taylah McIntosh.

■Goals: Lara Nathan (10), Bianca Daniels (23).

B Grade:

■FT: Warburton-Millgrove def by Wandin: 24 - 46.

■Best: Gemma Langdon, Gabby Woods Emerson Woods.

■Goals: Mel Hancock (10), Tanner McCurdy (8), Cam Holland (6).

C Grade:

■FT: Warburton-Millgrove def by Wandin: 22 - 45.

■Best: Kelly Lewis, Nicole Winzer and Grace Cole.

■Goals: Alexandra Woods (7), Mel Hancock (11), Tiahn Syme (4).

D Grade:

■FT: Warburton-Millgrove def by Wandin: 26 - 28.

■Best: Nicki Cole, Amarli Weir, Issy Maurici.

■Goals: Tayah Humphrey (18), Amarli Weir (4), Tiana Purchall (4).

U17:

■FT: Warburton-Millgrove def Wandin: 3422.

■Bests: Maisy Toy, Arabelle Syme and Rylee Bond.

■Goals: Maisy Toy (31), Belle Syme (3). FOOTBALL:

U18s:

■FT: Warburton-Millgrove def by Wandin: 2.2 (14) - 19.14 (128).

■Bests: Jedd Mormeneo, Kai Harrison, Nate

Lucas, Joshua Holmes, Zane Wunhym, Max Neilson.

■Goals: Nate Lucas (1), Alex White (1).

Reserves:

■FT: Warburton-Millgrove def by Wandin: 4.3 (27) - 17.21 (123).

■Bests: Brayden Ferguson, Dale Morris, Josh Read, Ricky Andueza, Kai Harrison, Tom Nurse.

■Goals: Nate Lucas (2), Josh Read (1), Jedd Mormeneo (1).

Women’s:

■FT: Warburton-Millgrove def Healesville: 6.2 (38) - 3.4 (22).

■Bests: Emerson Woods, Scarlett Henderson, Marley Perry, Lucy Pritchard, Lara Taylor, Jemma Iacono.

■Goals: Jemma Iacono (1), Jasmine Enever (2), Scarlett Henderson (3).

Seniors:

■FT: Warburton-Millgrove def by Wandin: 4.9 (33) - 24.17 (161).

■Best: Josh Berenger, Tyson Henry, Mitch Gordon, Ben Pretty, Tom Barr, Blake Muir.

■Goals: Blayden Tamme (1), Lachlan Hewitt (3).

Some wins, some big losses and some close games. It was a great day for both sides and another awesome First Nations Traffic Indigenous Round.

Early in the second the River Pigs looked in control as they took the lead before allowing Olinda two late goals to trail at half time by 12 points. Unable to convert up forward proved to be fatal as Olinda kicked three straight in the third. Whilst the Yarra boys put in a great effort to outscore Olinda in the last, they were finally beat-

Best

Dennis and Doyle take the spoils at Warburton Golf Club

By Ron Hottes

It was a much drier week at our wonderful Warburton Golf Club, and with the improved conditions came some excellent scoring.

There was no ladies’ golf on Monday, with the chilly winter weather proving just a little too much for our hardy golfers. Hopefully, we’ll see everyone back on the course next week.

Wednesday Midweek Stableford: Laurie Doyle put together a terrific round to win with a solid 37 Stableford points.

Trevor Porter was close behind, finishing runner-up with 36 points.

There were also several other good scores in the mid-30s, making it a competitive day’s golf.

Nearest to the pins (NTP) were:

■3rd – Alan Johnston.

■5th – Gary Vollmer.

■9th – Laurie Doyle.

■12th – Danny Hyndman.

■15th – David Mackey.

Congratulations to all our winners.

Saturday Monthly Medal: Saturday featured the Monthly Medal, and

the best score of the week came from Sam Dennis, who produced an outstanding net 67 to claim the medal.

Shane Ford finished runner-up with a net 70, winning on a countback from Andy Lockey, Rod Kempton and Tim Jones after a closely contested finish.

NTPs were:

■3rd – Jack Wyatt.

■9th – Ben Lever, whose tee shot finished just three centimetres from the hole – so close to a memorable hole-in-one!

■15th – Jack Wyatt.

Unfortunately, there were no nearest-thepin winners on either the 5th or 12th holes. Coming up:

A reminder that our Jarrod Lyle Crazy Golf Charity Day will be held on Friday, 15 August. More details will be available as the date approaches, but it’s always a fantastic day as we honour the memory of a much-loved professional golfer who left us far too soon.

Warburton Golf Club would love to see plenty of members and guests come along to support this wonderful cause and help make it another great success.

Wins for the Yarra Glen ladies

By David Ball

The Yarra Glen netball girls took on Yarra Junction. Sitting in fourth spot with Yarra Junction fifth , it was an important game for the Yarra girls. They responded with a solid four-quarter effort, outscoring the Eagles in every quarter.

Excellent defensive work made it hard for Junction, creating numerous turnovers.

Final Scores were: Yarra Glen 63 to Yarra Junction 39

Best Players: Georgia Crundale, Elise Dobson, Kim Williams.

B Grade started well to race to a 10 goal lead at quarter which they stretched out to 18 by half time.

The second half was a goal for goal affair with Junction able to reduce the difference to 16 at the final hooter.

Final Scores were: Yarra Glen 51 to Yarra Junction 35.

Best Players: Skye Corrigan, Kayla Collins, Nicole Moate.

C Grade put in a great four-quarter effort.

They were clean and effective with their passing and put great defensive pressure on Junction, and with a 29-goal win, have maintained fourth spot on the ladder.

Final Scores were: Yarra Glen 47 to Yarra Junction 18.

Best Players: Tiah Large, Abbey Page, Ash Shanks.

D Grade were sitting sixth and played Yarra Junction, who were in fifth spot.

With the team having a number of player changes from week to week, they took some time to get their game going.

Down by nine at half-time, the girls rallied in the second half as they teamed well to outscore Junction in the second half.

It wasn’t enough as they ended up going down by six.

Final Scores were: Yarra Glen 29 to Yarra Junction 35

Best Players: Phoebe Boot, Ruby Bennett, Molly Kehoe.

Next week Yarra Glen travel to Powelltown. The Under 18’s and Vets have a bye.

en by a better team. Final scores were: Yarra Glen 4.10 to Olinda Ferny Creek 9.7.

Players: Jungarla Hume, Kobey Jarvis, Brody Adams, Dylan Shambrook, Alastair Lowrie, John Pavic. Goalkickers: Max Williams, Lachlan Rutherford, Hunter Beers, Lachie Beaton.

Yarra Glen’s Taylor Reinecke (no 2 in Yarra Glen’s First Nations Round jumper) in a ruck contest with Yarra Junction’s Heath Chamberlain. (David Ball).

Ganga Giri put on a didgeridoo performance before the match. (Alex Woods)

Big results across the board for club

By Sally Cunningham

On a particularly cold Saturday at the end of the school holidays, all Healesville Soccer Club teams were back on the pitch playing the world game.

Some teams borrowed from others to make up the numbers as players balance holidays and injuries in the middle of the season; most teams took home the win this week.

Healesville Men’s Premiers 3 vs 1 Old Camberwell

Healesville were looking to continue their good run of form, three wins from their last four games, against high-flying Old Camberwell.

After just ten minutes, Brian was able to finish and score from a well-placed corner taken by Ethan, which encouraged the home side who maintained control for the remainder of the first half.

The second half gave the home side everything to play for as David returned to the side and scored with a powerful header that hit the underside of the crossbar, rattling the net, giving Healesville a two-goal buffer.

Within two minutes, Old Camberwell replied with a cross aimed at the corner of the netting that left Healesville goalkeeper Gabe with no decent chance to make the save.

With Camberwell pushing for an equaliser, David again flexed his skills with a power shot from outside the box to increase the lead to 3-1 to close the game and make it four wins from five. Senior Women’s Premier League Healesville 3 vs Monbulk 2

The young Healesville side welcomed back some familiar and experienced faces this week as they faced Monbulk at home.

Monbulk opened the scoring in the first five minutes. The lead didn’t last long.

Classy captain Melita burst through the midfield and struck from distance with an absolute belter to level things up.

With the scores back to all square, the home side settled.

Some passing ball movement carried on from training set up young striker Kendi to finish the best team goal of the season.

Riding the momentum, player of the match Melita latched onto another midfield ball and struck her second from distance. 3-1 at halftime.

With the wind at their backs, Healesville had everything in their favour, but a determined Monbulk side kept pushing, keeping young keeper Teah busy. A second goal for the away side 15

minutes from time built some tension, and Monbulk continued to press. Veterans Courtney and Jen lifted, and with Evelyn playing her best game of the season, Healesville held firm to break the drought and get back on the winners’ list.

Healesville Men’s Reserves 0 - Old Camberwell 1

Healesville started strong with plenty of ball but were unable to convert into goals.

Long-range efforts by Will and Augie were close but unable to pass the keeper.

A penalty on the stroke of half-time was converted by the away side.

The second half saw Camberwell, with the wind at their backs, grow into the game and had a goal disallowed for offside. Both teams fought hard and battled each other in what was a very tight contest with Healesville missing out on points that were arguably deserved.

U16 Girls Knox Force 3 vs 2 Healesville

Healesville Hurricanes returned from the break for a top-of-the-table clash with undefeated Knox Force.

Playing into a strong wind, Healesville suffered a tough start, conceding twice in the first eight minutes, but settled quickly and controlled much of the half.

Down 2–0 at the break, Knox extended their lead to 3 early in the second half.

The Hurricanes responded with grit and resilience, taking control and hitting back through two perfectly timed runs from Kendi to close the gap to 3–2.

Healesville pressed hard in the final ten minutes, launching repeated attacks, but Knox held firm through desperate defending and excellent goalkeeping.

Sia was outstanding in midfield, creating chances and dictating play, while Sophia and Ava caused constant problems down the wings.

Despite the narrow loss, the Hurricanes can take real confidence from pushing the ladder leaders all the way.

U15s Boys Healesville 2 vs Blackburn 2

Healesville were keen to win this week, facing a team they had drawn against in their first meeting.

A goal midway through the first quarter, and a strong defensive effort from Healesville saw the home team 1-0 up at halftime.

After conceding a goal early into the 2nd half, Jake then seized an attacking opportunity, scoring a wonderful half-volley, putting Healesville ahead once again.

The Burras took on Wandin during the First Nations Traffic Indigenous Round.

Wandin marks special return to Warburton

Wandin Football Netball Club made its first trip to Warburton since 2017 on Saturday, with the occasion carrying extra significance as both clubs came together to celebrate First Nations Round.

It was a landmark day for Wandin FNC, with the club wearing Indigenous jumpers across men’s and women’s football, as well as netball, for the first time.

The celebration extended beyond the scoreboard, with Warburton Football Netball Club to be commended for the care and time put into preparing a meaningful and respectful occasion that will be remembered by both clubs.

On the field, Wandin’s senior football side ensured the day was capped off in style with proud Indigenous man Joel Garner delivering one of the performances of the season, finishing with six goals and taking what will take some beating as mark of the year early in the third quarter.

In the middle of the ground, Cayden Black was relentless around the contest, continuing his outstanding season with a dominant on-ball display. His work rate and impact saw him recognised with the best-on-ground medal.

With 30 seconds remaining, Blackburn had one final attacking opportunity and scored a heartbreaking goal, with the last kick of the game.

A really great effort by both teams, with a draw being a very fitting result.

U13 boys Knox Force 1 vs Healesville White Wolves 6

A blustery winter morning greeted the Wolves at Knox, but the boys were switched on from the warm-up.

With several key players out and no bench, Ava stepped up to give Healesville a crucial sub.

The Wolves started fast. Alex opened the scoring with a brilliant run and composed finish, and Captain Ardi added a gutsy second. In defence, Jon and Evan were rock solid, while Ava and Will provided pace on the wings. Asher smashed a shot off the underside of the bar, Jono produced a superb one-handed save, and Asher soon broke through again for his second.

Healesville controlled the half at 4–1.

U12 Boys Healesville Goats 4 vs Bayswater Blacktip 5

On a cold, windy morning, we had a big mid-table clash against Bayswater.

Oscar, Eddie and Chase started up front, and Eddie scored quickly.

Bayswater struck back pretty much straight away. This was the pattern for the game that was matched until the whistle.

The defence of Charlie, Teddy, Tighe and Tommy in goal would clear the line and turn the ball around into attack. The midfield of Nicolas and Leonard also disrupted a number of attacks from the opposition.

Teddy moved to sweeper, allowing a change in combination of Eddie and Tighe, resulting in three additional and glorious goals.

The Blacktips kept pushing and scored some top-shelf goals, taking the points on the day.

U9 boys Healesville Redbacks 4 - 2 Berwick Thunder

No bench for the boys with a few still on holidays, but a mighty effort landed a reward on Saturday against quality opposition.

Going with a strong breeze in the first half, Healesville snatched an early goal.

Starting from the back, with Axel and Zac behind the ball, Healesville were able to set up forward forays from defence. Jarli and Tom spread the ball from the midfield, and Will and James provided the attack.

Auggie had another outstanding game in goal in challenging conditions. A lovely win at home.

Wandin ultimately ran out convincing winners, but the result sat alongside a much bigger picture — a powerful day of football, netball, community and shared respect that reflected the spirit of First Nations Round.

Horse talk

By Anita Prowse

It was gorgeous weather for an extra Pony Club School Holiday Rally on Thursday 9 July with an all jumping lesson for all levels, enjoyed by all.

A reminder also that all Pony Club Memberships are now due as of 1 July.

Wednesday 8 July saw the second Winter Series Dressage Day at Shirley Heights EC and the winners were:

■Adv - Kylie Pedder on Dicavalli Dimitri.

■Med - Sarah Elias on Nilton Swayze.

■Elem - Megan Joyce on Mayfield Vibrance.

■Nov - Nina Clarke on LP Quantum Connection.

■Prelim - Alison Moloney on Nefertiti.

■Prep - Christine Gerbert on Buddy.

Well done to all, big entries for this event, so be sure to get in early next month.

Alsocomingup,UpperYarraARC’sshowjumping day is on 2 August at Wesburn Park. It’s nice to see some more jumping events in our area, so get your entries in for that one. Initial drafts are being made up for the Yarra Ranges Equestrian Alliance’s Equestrian Strategy, so if anyone has any further views or data to add, please send to anita.horses@ gmail.com as soon as possible.

Happy riding everyone!

Healesville Senior Men’s first 11 huddled before the game. (Supplied).

(Supplied)

The second Winter Series Dressage Day at Shirley Heights EC took place on Wednesday. (Supplied)

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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!