Mail - Ferntree Gully Star Mail - 21st July 2026

Weaving tales

By Tanya Steele

Over the school holidays a local student and her family have weaved a giant rainbow serpent to celebrate NAIDOC week for 2026, bringing one of the oldest figures from First Nations learning to life in the hills.

Using donated and hand dyed sheets, the rainbow serpent has taken form on the fence line at Belgrave South Primary and students have celebrated as term returned, doing activities and learning about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture in the classroom.

A school Captain and now in year six student Blaze said this year’s theme being 50 years of Deadly, she wanted to share the rainbow serpent story partly because of how well known it is.

“Being 50 is deadly, it’s a pretty proud thing to do,” she said.

Choosing the Rainbow Serpent as the star of the show, Blaze also led her fellow students across year levels in some weaving, flag making and spent some time looking at the different Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups on the map of Australia as school returned.

“I really like how it’s a rainbow, so it’s representing all sorts of people,” she said.

Back in business

By Tanya Steele

William Ricketts Sanctuary is set to reopen in the coming months, more than five years after it was closed following severe storm damage in June 2021.

Parks Victoria says works to make the site safe are nearing completion, with further insurancefunded repairs to damaged buildings to continue after reopening.

“The recovery works to the site are ongoing and will include additional insurance-funded works to repair and replace damaged and destroyed buildings,” a Parks Victoria spokesperson said.

“The works will not require the site to re-close to the public.”

After the June storm anniversary passed by this year, Liberal Monbulk candidate Clare Fitzmaurice criticised the length of the closure

and called for greater transparency over the site’s future and that the management so far was a failure from both the Labor government and Parks Victoria.

“Community members are very concerned about the protection of this site,” she said.

“Parks Victoria must come clean about their plans for the Sanctuary.”

More recently, Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino broadcast news of the re-opening on social

media and said the Sanctuary is a unique place which is special to many and she hopes visitors old and new will enjoy being able to return to this quiet place of art, nature and reflection.

“After just over five years following the storm which devastated this part of our community, its reopening is symbolic of the recovery and resilience of the people and places across Mount Dandenong,” she said.

Blaze weaved the Rainbow Serpent with help from her family and had fun taking lead on NAIDOC week activities in Belgrave South. (Stewart Chambers: 565994)

Court rally held as Ganiev makes bid for freedom

By Emily Woods, AAP

A man previously charged with killing Isla Bell has argued his remaining charge should be thrown out, accusing prosecutors of an abuse of process.

Marat Ganiev faced the Supreme Court in Melbourne via video link on Tuesday 14 July, where his legal team took the “extraordinary step” of applying for a permanent stay on his criminal case.

The 55-year-old was initially charged with the murder of Ms Bell, 19, after her remains were found inside a fridge at a rubbish tip in 2024.

He was committed to stand trial, however once his case reached the Supreme Court the prosecution downgraded the charge to manslaughter.

About a week before he was due to face trial, in May this year the prosecution withdrew the manslaughter charge and filed a fresh indictment, accusing Ganiev of perverting the course of justice.

Ganiev’s barrister Sally Flynn KC on Tuesday argued this was an abuse of process as she applied for the stay which, if successful, will mean her client walks free.

“The way this prosecution of Mr Ganiev has unfolded is out of the ordinary to say the least,” she told the Victorian Supreme Court.

“The evidence and the law have never changed, it’s just the prosecution case that has changed.”

She said the prosecution’s decision to file a new indictment, a week before the trial was due to begin, amounted to “an abuse of process”

“It is so unfair as to mean this court ought (to) take the extraordinary step of permanently staying this prosecution,” Ms Flynn said.

Prosecutor Jeremy McWilliams said the Director of Public Prosecutions used “commonplace and sound” discretion in reconsidering the charge against Ganiev.

“Cases are examined, re-examined, examined again, those processes are sharpened and more intensively applied as the matter reaches a critical point: for example, a trial or plea,” he said.

“There’s nothing relevantly unfair about that process.”

Justice James Elliott reserved his decision and will hand down his judgment at a later date.

Another man, Eyal Yaffe, had his charges discontinued by prosecutors in May, after previously facing assist offender and pervert the course of justice.

Outside court, Ms Bell’s mother Justine Spokes addressed a crowd of about 100 people, some of whom had donned “Justice for Isla” shirts and wielded orange signs.

“Her story deserves to be told. The truth deserves to be felt,” she said.

Femicide researcher Sherele Moody also addressed the crowd, pointing out Victoria had the highest rate of femicide in Australia in 2026.

“All we can do is keep fighting the good fight, keep turning up for every one of them,” she said.

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Email: yvc.vic@gmail.com

Government hopes deal will stop school strike

By Melissa Meehan and Eleanor Wilson, AAP

Parents were waiting to learn whether a public school strike would go ahead after a teacher’s union met to decide on a pay offer labelled a “watershed moment for education”

The Victorian government put a revised pay deal to the Australian Education Union late on Thursday 16 July in a bid to stop the strike action planned for 23 July.

Education Minister Ben Carroll labelled the $5 billion offer a “watershed moment for education” and urged the union to call off the strike.

“Let’s get on, let’s get a deal done,” Mr Carroll said.

“Term three has just gone back, we need our kids in school. Every minute matters.”

In addition to the government’s previous offer, the revised deal includes a pay rise for education support employees in line with teachers and a one per cent lump sum for classroom teachers at the top of the pay scale.

Teachers and support staff would receive a minimum 28.3 per cent pay increase over four years - marginally higher than the previous offer but below the 35 per cent rise over three years the union wants.

Teachers would pocket an extra $1000 every month by October under the deal, thanks to an initial 12.75 per cent increase.

The education union’s Victorian branch president Justin Mullaly accused the government of leapfrogging them “in an anti-union fashion” and emailing teachers directly with the offer.

“They should act by going through the union, that’s what our union expects and that’s what they should have done as a Labor government,” Mr Mullaly said.

Mr Carroll argued going straight to the workforce was “what a strong Labor government does”

“I had a signed agreement with the Australian Education Union last time, an agreement they themselves described as being really good,” he said.

The union held an extraordinary meeting late on Friday to consider the offer.

Mr Mullaly acknowledged the pay deal was “significant” , but said the decision would come down to a vote of union members at the meeting.

The teachers’ union in June knocked back the Labor government’s offer of a 28 per cent pay rise over four years.

The government wants to avoid a repeat of scenes in March when more than 35,000 unionists protested. (Supplied)

The Victorian Education Union’s more than 60,000 public school teachers, principals and support staff voted down the previous deal, with 57.7 per cent of members rejecting the offer.

A 24-hour statewide stop work action is planned for Thursday, along with a ban on working unpaid overtime.

Current industrial action also includes bans on state Labor MPs visiting public schools, implementing new government programs, and limitations on attending meetings and on responding to Department of Education emails. Unionised public school educators walked off the job across Victoria in March for the first time in more than 13 years during a 24-hour strike, with more than 35,000 people marching to the front steps of state parliament.

Justine Spokes, the mother of Isla Bell, during a previous rally at the State Library of Victoria in Melbourne, Saturday 16 May 2026. (AAP Image/Jay Kogler)

Deer crisis continues

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

For years, residents across the Dandenong Ranges have raised concerns about the growing presence of feral deer and the damage they can cause to the environment, properties and livelihoods.

In last week’s coverage about the issue, Ferny Creek resident Bob Stevens said communities across the Yarra Ranges had become increasingly concerned about the risks deer pose to drivers, cyclists, the environment, waterways, native flora and fauna, farming properties and private gardens. Mr Stevens said the issue often receives wider attention only when deer appear in suburban streets, backyards or private properties.

He said he did not want to think about what could have happened if his recent encounter with a deer had involved his daughter and two infant granddaughters travelling in the car.

“If they had been in the back seat of my car they would have been showered with shattered glass,” Mr Stevens said. “My anger then would have been at a whole different level.”

“The deer population and spread should never have been allowed to get to the point it has and ongoing Government funding is critical to ensure the long overdue Parks Victoria control program continues into the future.”

His concerns come as another Dandenong Ranges resident, farmer Rob Endersby, shared the impact deer have had on his livelihood.

Mr Endersby, who was featured in a current affairs report back in May 2026, ran a family daffodil

farm at the foot of the Dandenong Ranges for 50 years before the damage caused by wild deer which forced him to sell.

He told Nine News’ A Current Affair reporters the problem had become significantly worse over the past 25 years, with herds of deer trampling crops and damaging bulbs.

“You see all the years of work you’ve put in planting all these things, and then it’s gradually getting undone,” Mr Endersby told a Nine News reporter. He said the damage happened overnight, leaving years of work destroyed. “They left us with nothing, really,” Mr Endersby said. He said the scale of the issue was far greater than many people realised.

“They’re a huge problem, much bigger than most people think,” he said.

The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) spokesperson said it was working with local communities and experts to deliver the Victorian Deer Control Strategy, and have invested $27 million to reduce the damage deer cause to the environment and property.

“Last year DEECA undertook deer control measures across more than one million hectares, with recreational hunters also removing 158,500 deer from the environment - 66 per cent above the longterm average,” the spokesperson said.

In 2024-25, Victorian Government deer control projects delivered more than one million hectares of aerial and ground deer control, including the removal of 1568 deer from the Dandenong Ranges and Greater Melbourne surrounds.

Funding has also been allocated for 2025-2027 to Parks Victoria, DEECA and peri-urban local governments to undertake further control actions to reduce the impacts of deer.

Yarra Ranges Council’s director of planning and sustainable futures, Kath McClusky said wildlife management was primarily the responsibility of DEECA, but council continued to work with DEECA, Landcare and community groups to support targeted deer control across the municipality.

“Significant action has been taken through the Deer Control Program, which has operated across Yarra Ranges since 2019,” Ms McClusky said.

“The program has delivered positive localised outcomes and plays an important role in reducing the impacts of feral deer on communities and the environment.”

Ms McClusky said feral deer remained a complex and growing challenge across Victoria, requiring a coordinated approach between government agencies, land managers and the community.

“The council supports continuation and expansion of deer control programs via the Victorian Government. While current programs are delivering positive results, sustained investment is needed to manage population growth and limit further spread,” she said.

“We recognise the concerns raised by residents and want the community to know that substantial work is underway. Continued collaboration, community reporting and ongoing investment will be critical to reducing the impacts of feral deer across the Yarra Ranges.”

IN BRIEF

Monbulk crash claims young life

Despite the efforts of two off duty medical staff, a young Yarra Junction man has died following a head-on collision in Monbulk on Sunday 19 July.

The 22 year-old lost his life after two cars collided along Monbulk Road, near Monbulk-Seville Road, at around 9.25am yesterday.

Police said that the man was given medical care straight away by an off-duty nurse and paramedic as emergency services were called in, but sadly he passed away at the scene.

An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said that two specialist Air Ambulance Victoria helicopter crews as well as Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) paramedic road crews assessed and treated multiple people at the scene.

The man and woman, both in their 20s from the other car were seriously injured and were airlifted to hospital.

Police are asking if anyone witnessed the collision or has dashcam vision to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic. com.au.

Boronia driver to face court

A 47-year-old man is expected to face court after allegedly returning more than three times the legal blood alcohol limit after policed pulled him over in Boronia on Friday 17 July.

Police said the driver was intercepted on Dorset Road about 9.30pm after officers allegedly saw his vehicle travelling without headlights and swerving within its lane.

After returning a Evidentiary Breath Test (EBT) result of: 0.153, police immediately suspended his licence for 12 months, impounded his car for 30 days and is expected to be charged on summons.

Police said another adult and two children were also in the vehicle.

Safe phones during AusAlert

For women and children experiencing domestic violence – if you have a hidden safe phone, you are recommended to turn it off, give it to a safe person, or switch it to aeroplane mode on Monday 27 July at 2pm.

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

Everyone with a compatible phone or other device in Australia can expect to receive the alert. Devices will vibrate and play a siren-like warning sound for about 10 seconds.

If you are concerned about receiving a Critical Alert, follow these steps:

• One hour before the test: turn off your mobile device or put it in aeroplane mode.

• During and after the test: keep your device off or in aeroplane mode for 24 hours.

• An AusAlert message will appear on device screens. It will clearly say it is a test. AusAlert sends emergency messages to most compatible mobile devices such as phones, tablets and smartwatches. Alerts can also be received on children’s safety watches and Apple CarPlay devices.

For more information, visit: ausalert.gov.au

If you are concerned about your immediate safety, call 000.

If you have concerns for your safety and would like further advice or support, you can call 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).

Distribution Enquiries Tel:1300654910

Advertising Group Advertising Manager – Tracey Aitken

Email:advertising@mailcommunity.com.au

Editorial Email:editor@mailcommunity.com.au

Residents across the Dandenong Ranges are calling for continued action to address the growing impacts of feral deer. (File)

Sanctuary set to re-open

By Tanya Steele

William Ricketts Sanctuary is set to reopen in the coming months after the prominent nature and art space of the hills remained closed for years after massive damage to the site in the storms of June 2021.

Speculation on the exact date has been rife, with official updates on the progress of repairs and re-opening of the sanctuary attributing delays to the extent of the damage, the site’s terrain and safety.

State Member for Monbulk, Daniela De Martino MP said countless locals and visitors have been keen to see the reopening of the sanctuary.

“I am pleased that it will be taking place very soon following consultation with the William Ricketts Alliance and Wurundjeri Traditional Owners and much work on behalf of Parks Victoria,” she said on Thursday 16 July.

A spokesperson from Parks Victoria said that they are working to reopen William Ricketts Sanctuary in the coming months and will confirm a

date with stakeholders and the community as soon as possible.

“The recovery works to the site are ongoing and will include additional insurance-funded works to repair and replace damaged and destroyed buildings,” they said.

“The works will not require the site to re-close to the public.

“Parks Victoria has focused on completing clean up works to ensure the site is safe to reopen to the public.”

Local Liberal candidate for Monbulk Clare Fitzmaurice took to social media in June and said the sanctuary, a “global icon” was rotting away.

“Parks Victoria and the Allan government have completely failed the community on this issue,” said Ms Fitzmaurice.

“Community members are very concerned about the protection of this site.

“Parks Victoria must come clean about their plans for the Sanctuary.”

Part of the traditional Country of the Wurund-

jeri People, the William Ricketts Sanctuary came to being through the work of renowned Australian sculptor and potter William Ricketts.

His works, set amongst the natural setting of Kalorama, featured numerous sculptures, inspired by his own travels to Central Australia from 1949 to 1960, where he reportedly stayed with the Pitjantjatjara and Arrernte Aboriginal people.

After the storm, many sculptures, buildings, pathways, and handrails were destroyed by the many large Mountain Ash trees at the Sanctuary that fell during the violent windstorm.

The art inside the sanctuary itself has come under criticism for being out of place with modern times, raising questions around the longevity and impact of sculpture art inspired by real people.

Academics Marcia Langton and Bruno David co-authored an article in 2003 exploring what they described as William Ricketts’ imaginary Aboriginality.

Examining his clay-sculpted vision in “intel-

lectual, social and historical contexts” , the duo called William Ricketts a primitive theme park, animating a vision of civil life with essential human spirituality.

Visitors reviewing the site on Google before it closed admired the detail in the sculptures and the setting of the park, while others questioned the validity of how the Aboriginal people are depicted in some of the sculptures.

Ms De Martino said the Sanctuary is a unique place which is special to many and she hopes visitors old and new will enjoy being able to return to this quiet place of art, nature and reflection.

“After just over five years following the storm which devastated this part of our community, its reopening is symbolic of the recovery and resilience of the people and places across Mount Dandenong,” she said.

William Ricketts Alliance and the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation were contacted for comment.

Push for safer Wellington Road as road kills continue

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

A petition from Vets for Compassion calling for further wildlife safety measures on Wellington Road has gained 6955 signatures, following ongoing community concern over animal road hits.

The recent reduction in speed limits on Wellington Road was welcomed as a step forward, but the group says more measures are needed.

The petition is calling for virtual fencing along the road, upgraded electronic warning signs and reduced speed limits during dusk-to-dawn hours when wildlife is most active.

Vets for Compassion rescuer Vicki Clark said the numbers were lower than last year so far, but the higher-risk months were approaching.

“This year has been a lot less than last year but we are just coming into what was our bigger months last year, food was scarce so they were coming roadside where the freshest grass is, the grass that gets the run off of rain from the roads,” she said.

Roadkill data recorded from 1 January 2026 to current shows 104 kangaroos, 28 wallabies, two deer, 36 ringtail possums, two wombats, 11 brushtail possums and 28 birds have been killed.

The petition is calling on Knox City Council, Yarra Ranges Council, Cardinia Shire Council, the Department of Transport and Planning and local members of Parliament to implement further safety measures on Wellington Road.

Gigantic mountain ash toppled within the sanctuary, causing extensive damages. (File: 67211)

The sanctuary was a huge drawcard before storm damages saw the site close in June 2021. (67211)

Parks Vic have confirmed the site will reopen but not exactly when. (67211)

Council backs grants plan

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Yarra Ranges Council unanimously endorsed its proposed 2027–2031 Multi-Year Grants Program, with councillors praising its benefits for the community.

Cr Peter McIlwain put forward the recommendation, with Cr Mitch Mazzarella supporting the motion before councillors unanimously approved it at Tuesday, 14 July’s council meeting.

Cr McIlwain described council’s grant programs as “one of the best things that council does” , saying it creates a significant “multiplier effect” by mobilising community action and sup-

porting council’s own programs.

He said the multi-year grants program enabled community groups to progress from smaller grants to sustained, long-term projects.

“It gives a home to many community projects that provide a great deal of benefit to our communities,” Cr McIlwain said.

Cr Mazzarella described the proposal as “very much a good news story” and welcomed the proposed $80,000 increase to the program’s budget.

“These groups know how to spend money very, very well and to deliver substantial impact into the community,” he said.

The motion was carried unanimously.

Yarra Ranges approves sports allocation policy

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

During Yarra Ranges Council’s meeting on Tuesday, 14 July, a new policy set out to make sports ground allocations fairer and more transparent was unanimously approved by the councillors.

The Sports Allocations Policy introduces clearer criteria for allocating council-managed sporting facilities and provides a framework for decisions when multiple clubs seek access to the same ground.

Cr Gareth Ward said council manages a significant number of sporting assets, including 46 reserves, 65 sports grounds and 40 pavilions.

“At the moment, when a club is wishing to call one of these facilities home, they need to fill in a form, and there’s no formal criteria sitting behind how we make decisions on who the grounds will be allocated to,” he said.

“When two clubs want the same ground, that makes the situation a little bit more complicated, and that’s not fair on the clubs.”

Under the new policy, council officers will have a consistent process to follow when assessing applications.

“This new policy gives officers a framework to work by and essential criteria that will apply to everybody, and scoring that only comes into play when two clubs genuinely want the same facility,” Cr Ward said.

He said council received feedback from 12 clubs during the policy’s development, with clubs broadly comfortable with where the policy landed.

“I think overall, it’s very good work from the team in putting together fair assessment criteria, and it’s definitely something that we need, so we can administer these properly,” Cr Ward said.

A better retirement lifestyle

Cr Fiona McAllister echoed those sentiments, saying transparency and equity were central to the policy’s purpose and would support council’s management of sporting facilities and club tenancies.

“The commentary that’s in the report talks about transparent and equitable, which essentially is the aim of this policy, and positive outcomes across all our communities,” she said.

Cr McAllister said many sporting clubs already worked together to manage competing demands, but the policy would support council when decisions needed to be made.

“I think many of us as councillors actually see our sporting clubs working together when there is potential timing clashes with use of grounds,” she said.

“But this is for scenarios where council again plays its critical role in determining allocation and ongoing management of use and tenancies.”

The Sports Allocations Policy was carried unanimously.

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Yarra Ranges Council has approved changes to sports facility allocations. (File)

Yarra Ranges Council has backed its multi-year grants program during Tuesday, 14 July’s meeting. (File)

Councils ponder future of concrete wickets

By Callum Ludwig

Following the tragic death of Epping footballer Nathan Fitzgerald, concrete wickets on local recreation reserves have been brought into the spotlight.

Grounds across the state are managed by either councils or Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) appointed Committees of Management, responsible for their maintenance, suitability for different sports and tenant management.

Concrete wickets are commonplace due to the relative low-cost during the transition between football and cricket seasons, but Fitzgerald’s death has highlighted the potential for serious or fatal injuries.

The Star Mail reached out to the councils across the Outer East to hear from them on how many local grounds have concrete wickets and how they hope to ensure local sports participants are safe.

Yarra Ranges Council’s director of built environment and infrastructure Anita Curnow said they, like countless others, were deeply saddened to hear about the recent football accident involving Nathan Fitzgerald.

“First and foremost, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Nathan’s family, friends and teammates during this incredibly difficult time,” she said.

“Council is committed to maintaining sporting grounds that are safe, fit for purpose and meet the relevant standards for community use. Council manages 32 football ovals across the municipality, 30 of which are also used for cricket during the alternate season.

These grounds have a concrete base for the cricket pitch, which is covered during the football season with covers that meet AFL and Cricket Australia performance standards.”

Yarra Ranges Council declined to comment any further at this time, but will consider any findings or recommendations arising from the coroner’s investigation once that process has concluded.

Cardinia Shire Council’s director of infrastructure and environment Mick Barrett said Cardinia Shire Council extends its condolences to the family, friends and wider sporting community of Nathan Fitzgerald following this tragic incident.

“There are currently 37 concrete cricket wickets across Council-owned and managed reserves and Crown Land reserves with DEECA-appointed Committees of Management sites,” he said.

“These wickets have been a longstanding feature of community sporting grounds and continue to support local cricket participation.”

There is only one turf wicket in Cardinia Shire.

Mr Barrett said the safety of the Cardinia community is a priority.

“Council regularly inspects and maintains its sporting infrastructure and is currently in the process of undertaking impact testing of concrete wickets to better understand any potential risks and support future decision-making,” he said.

“Council remains committed to providing safe, accessible, and fit-for-purpose sporting facilities that meet the needs of our growing community.”

Knox City Council did not comment but indicated its municipality has 26 locations with synthetic cricket wickets on concrete bases, using AFL-approved wicket-cover systems.

Maroondah City Council was contacted for comment.

Following Fitzgerald’s death, AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon said the AFL, on behalf of the football community across Australia, extends its

People and Dogs in Parks plan approved

By Callum Ludwig

After years in the making, Yarra Ranges Council has approved a 10-year People and Dogs in Parks Plan at the Tuesday 14 July council meeting.

First touted in 2024 and drafted in 2025, the plan will now guide the council’s management of dog off-leash areas for the next decade.

Streeton Ward councillor Jeff Marriott spoke to the motion and said the Yarra Ranges recognises the significant health and social benefit of dog ownership.

“Council has legislative obligations to manage domestic animals while balancing community safety, recreation and amenity, with nearly 32,000 registered dogs, the highest in greater Melbourne,” he said.

“In August 2025 we had a council meeting where there was the People and Dogs in Parks Plan seeking endorsement for public exhibition, and from that we’ve got our plan for start-up, being a draft, which is moving through tonight,” he said.

“Of course, with that it gets to the next level where masterplans will go forward, where we can look at future parks or management of current parks and also future development in aspects for our people and parks plan.”

Under the plan, the council endeavours to have at least one dog off-leash area available to the majority of Yarra Ranges residents within a 10-minute drive from home, including within a 20-minute/two kilometre walk in urban areas.

Chandler Ward councillor Gareth Ward said a lot of careful work has got into balancing some very different views in regards to this plan.

“I’m happy to say now we’ll have a consistent standard to work from for the first time,” he said.

“It means that the next request that comes to us, that gets assessed again, is now assessed against something documented, rather than by case-by-case and it sets out a prioritised pipeline of works over the next 10 years.

“Itputsusinagoodpositionwhengrantfunding comes up, rather than missing any opportunities.”

Following the motion being passed, the council will now develop a priority list for the upgrade or relocation of existing and provision of new dog off-leash areas. This arose in the meeting following a question from Billanook Ward councillor Tim Heenan to the manger of design and place Nathan Islip.

deepest condolences to Nathan Fitzgerald’s family, friends, teammates and everyone connected with the Epping Football Netball Club, Lalor Football Netball Club and the Northern Football Netball League.

“Nathan’s passing has deeply saddened everyone in the football community. Our thoughts are with everyone who knew and loved him, and with the many people across local football who have been affected by this tragic loss,” he said.

“At times like these, football is about much more than the game itself. It is about coming together to support one another, with the team at AFL Victoria working closely with those affected and continuing to provide wellbeing support to Nathan’s family, his club and everyone impacted across the days and weeks ahead.”

All 18 clubs across AFL matches in Round 18 wore black armbands as a mark of respect while the Melbourne Demons and Richmond Tigers (who Fitzgerald supported) held a minute’s silence before their match on Sunday 12 July. Community football leagues across the country also adorned black armbands in honour of Fitzgerald.

“We haven’t included throughout this process our specific park locations simply because the principles need to be adopted and form the foundation for any future decision-making,” Mr Islip said.

“There is an action in the plan to go and then start to test these principles against each location, but we need some flexibility because circumstances change, so we didn’t want to adopt a list.

“We just need the plan with the principles adopted.”

In the short term, the council will also review dog-prohibitedareas,dogoff-leashareasandsignage at dog off-leash areas. Following the review, potential projects and boundary changes will be proposed and the community invited to provide feedback.

Locations of dog off-leash areas, expectations of owners and dogs and relevant regulations will be updated on the council website and other information sources in the medium-term, while authorised officers will continue to have an ongoing presence at dog off-leash areas.

Nathan Fitzgerald’s death has caused concern about the risks of concrete wickets on local reserves. (James Ross/AAP Image)

Tributes laid at Epping Recreation Reserve, the home of Nathan Fitzgerald’s former club.(Damjan Janevski: 563926)

Yarra Ranges Council’s People and Dogs in Parks Plan has now been approved after two years in the making. (Derek Schlennstedt)

School libraries on life support

By Oliver Winn

For many, spending a rainy recess absorbed in a book at their school’s library is a memory they’ll cherish.

From playing card games with friends in between the large book-filled shelves, to sinking into a bean bag and catching up on a story from a faraway land, the benefits of these spaces are numerous.

But in most schools in the Yarra Ranges, these valuable spaces rely on volunteers – passionate parents spending an hour or two sorting books or teachers taking on the responsibility on top of their other education duties.

The Star Mail heard from 22 Yarra Ranges schools and asked what their libraries were like, if they had paid staff maintaining them, and if they wanted more funding to better support their libraries.

Seventeen out of 22 school libraries are run by volunteers, teachers or education support staff. Only five schools had a paid librarian, two of which were part-time.

The schools with paid librarians reported high satisfaction with the state of their libraries and didn’t request for additional funding.

The level of satisfaction for schools with volunteer-run libraries was split: Seven schools felt their library needed improvement, while eight were happy with the state of their volunteer-run libraries.

But, all schools with volunteer-run libraries said they wanted more funding to better deliver a high quality library space for their students.

Interestingly, this shows us that while some schools can run their libraries well on volunteer staff, there’s still a clear push for more funding to transition to a more sustainable, paid model.

At Yarra Junction Primary School, their “beautiful” library is staffed by volunteer librarian Sue Hotton. She’s fostered a love of reading among a decade’s worth of students.

“In a world where technology is moving faster than we can learn it, at Yarra Junction Primary School, our library remains a place you can lose yourself in a book in the comfort of our beautiful library space,” Yarra Junction Primary School principal Lisa Rankin said.

But Sue Hotton is in her 80s and Ms Rankin said she had “no idea how we could replace her”

“Absolutely schools would want funding… There will come a time when our school will not have a library as there is no funding for this resource.

“Research has found that reading to and with children builds verbal language, reading

skills and writing skills - this evidence should inform the government of the need for libraries,” Ms Rankin said.

The state of a school’s library is largely dependent on the school’s principal as they have discretion over how the budget is allocated.

At Birmingham Primary School, its library is a “strategic priority” , staffing a paid librarian four days a week.

“In an age where students are surrounded by digital content, we believe there remains something uniquely valuable about children holding a physical book in their hands,” Birmingham Primary School principal Steve Harvey said.

“School libraries remain an essential part of every child’s education, providing opportunities to build literacy, curiosity and a lifelong love of reading.”

But every school has its own priorities and budget constraints. For some schools, there’s simply not enough funding to go around and the library, unfortunately, has to be overlooked.

It’s quite common for schools to rely on parents and the community to help run their libraries. At Woori Yallock Primary School, parents are asked to help reorganise the library after incursions.

“It is a shame that we simply can’t afford a librarian or even a library technician but we simply don’t have the funds to do so,” Woori Yallock Primary School principal Oliver Thockloth said.

Then there’s Warburton Primary School, which partnered with local bookstore Verso Books to restock its aging library catalogue.

Warburton Primary School’s acting principal Elizabeth Sarroff said a refreshed book collection would be a “game changer” for students.

While their library will be open for teachers to run sessions out of, staffing the library so it can be used during lunchtime is a “logistical puzzle”

“All of our staff are on yard duty. So we have to make it one of our yard duties,” Ms Sarroff said.

She said having the funds for a paid librarian would be “amazing, because we don’t want a room that’s beautifully set up that never gets accessed”

Meanwhile, staff at other schools are forking out their own money to keep their libraries stocked with books.

Olinda Primary School principal Cornelia Sheeran said she spends around $1000 of her own money every year to keep the book collection up-to-date.

“Alongside their normal teaching responsibilities, teachers organise the library, maintain the collection and update its resources.

Affordable uniforms pave way to belonging

By Oliver Winn

Schools in the Yarra Ranges are benefiting from a new initiative giving students affordable pathways to school uniforms.

It comes after the organisation, State Schools Relief, launched its new purpose-led uniform business Equal Threads, which transforms everyday purchases into measurable social good.

“Much of this work is completed after school, on weekends and during school holidays. Cataloguing new books and reviewing or replacing outdated titles takes a significant amount of time,” Ms Sheeran said.

Ten years ago, Healesville High School had two part-time paid librarians staffing the library each day. Then there was just one paid librarian three days a week. But in 2023, the librarian had to fill a position in the school’s office, and there hasn’t been a librarian ever since.

Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) chief executive officer Cathie Warburton said there’s no legal requirement for schools to have a library in Australia.

“This absolutely needs to change. Every Australian student deserves equitable access to a well-resourced school library and the expertise of qualified library staff, regardless of where they live or what school they attend,” Ms Warburton said.

Library space is included in the Victorian Department of Education’s School Facility Area schedules, which detail the physical spaces required for a school to deliver its curriculum for students.

A spokesperson for the Department of Education said it recognises the importance of school libraries, “with libraries part of all new school builds, including the 121 new schools built since 2017”

The department did not respond to this masthead’s questions around whether it would put measures in place to support school libraries. While library spaces are listed as a requirement in new school builds, there’s no direct government support for existing libraries.

Ms Warburton said in a fast-paced world of instant information, school libraries had never been more important.

“Students today are growing up and learning in an environment where information is constant, but not always accurate or trustworthy. School libraries provide something increasingly valuable: a place where young people can learn how to question, verify and evaluate what they read, watch and share.”

Mr Thockloth agrees.

“Libraries are among the most special spaces in a school because they foster a love of reading, support inquiry and creativity, and provide a calm, inclusive environment where all students can learn, explore, and feel a sense of belonging.

“When their purpose is compromised or even non-existent in some cases, so too is the opportunity to fully realise these benefits for our students,” he said.

State Schools Relief chief executive officer Andrew Cameron said for schools in the Yarra Ranges, Equal Threads was about “strengthening something that’s already working”

“Equal Threads gives State Schools Relief a more sustainable way to fund the support schools rely on for things like uniforms, shoes and essential school items.

“Every purchase feeds back into that support, which means we can keep showing up for local schools, not just now, but over the long term,” Mr Cameron said.

For more than 95 years, State Schools Relief has supported Victorian government school students facing financial hardship by supplying them with essential items like uniforms, technology and more.

All funds from Equal Threads are reinvested back into SSR, enabling more Victorian students to access the essential items they need.

Mr Cameron said the needs of students in the Yarra Ranges can diversify greatly due to the region’s large and varied geography.

“In areas like the Yarra Ranges, where communities can be geographically spread out and quite diverse, what drives belonging for students can show up differently from school to school. But the impact is the same, students turning up without the basics they need to feel confident and take part fully in school life.

“What’s also really noticeable is that need is becoming more varied. It’s not just a uniform. Different students need different kinds of support, and schools are navigating that every day,” he said.

Mr Cameron said Equal Threads’ charity model ensures sustainable and adaptable funding for State Schools Relief.

“What we hear from schools in communities like the Yarra Ranges is that demand doesn’t stay still, it changes, and it can grow and diversify quickly. This model of a charity and a social enterprise, helps us keep pace with that, so schools have a partner they can rely on when students need support.”

State Schools Relief has partnered with nine Yarra Ranges schools in the last 12 months.

According to State Schools Relief, uniform provision cut rates of absence among students by 38 per cent overall.

The key to this is giving students a sense of belonging. When students have the right uniform, it can boost social and academic participation while giving them greater confidence.

Most schools in the Yarra Ranges rely on volunteers to run their libraries. (File)

Students report higher levels of belonging when they have access to the right school uniform. (File)

Serpent weaves NAIDOC story

By Tanya Steele

Over the school holidays a local student and her family have weaved a giant rainbow serpent to celebrate NAIDOC week for 2026, bringing one of the oldest figures from First Nations learning to life in the hills.

Using donated and hand dyed sheets, the rainbow serpent has taken form on the fence line at Belgrave South Primary and students have celebrated as term returned, doing activities and learning about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture in the classroom.

A school Captain and now in year six student Blaze said this year’s theme being 50 years of Deadly, she wanted to share the rainbow serpent story partly because of how well known it is.

“Being 50 is deadly, it’s a pretty proud thing to do,” she said.

“I really like how it’s a rainbow, so it’s representing all sorts of people.”

Blaze led her fellow students across year levels in some weaving, flag making and spent some time looking at the different Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups on the map of Australia.

Blaze said her family originally came from up in Cairns.

“We’re called the Yidinji Malanbarra people,” she said.

NAIDOC week has been running for five decades and across Australia aims to amplify the voices and perspective of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

As curriculum resources for schools were rolled out across Australia in June, the National NAIDOC Committee said this year’s NAIDOC Week theme is about looking back at the stories, marches, languages, art and leadership that have shaped the past 50 years.

“It’s about recognising how far we’ve come, not by chance, but because generations of people refused to be silenced,” they said.

School Principal Stuart Boyle said the serpent weaving and Blaze running activities have been fantastic.

“There’s an extra attachment, and it really celebrates and promotes the recognition of our First Nations and Indigenous perspectives in our local community,” he said.

Mr Boyle said the group making and storytelling that come with NAIDOC activities is where the power is.

“Through that tactility of activity, they’re talking and they’re hearing those perspectives, which is really great to celebrate in our curriculum,”

he said.

Marrung lead and teacher at Belgrave South Mason Fitzgerald said Blaze has always been passionate about sharing her culture with the school and that it’s been nice having her in her role as school captain take on activities and learning.

“Over the years, we’ve been watching her take more and more ownership in the school,” he said.

On being able to talk and teach her own peers about her culture at such a young age, Blaze said she gets a lot of support from her family.

“I’m very proud to be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander,” she said.

“It’s a beautiful culture to celebrate.”

Blaze said the younger students asked her questions while they were doing activities and

they liked the way the serpent looked at the school.

“They liked it,” she said.

The primary schooler said on reflecting on the project she said she feels a bit serious and that “the serpent is kind of saying we’re all gonna have a bit of creativity.”

The rainbow serpent will stay up for the time being and Blaze and her fellow students will continue to make their way through their final year in primary school.

“I would like to thank my Nanna and all the people who donated sheets,” said Blaze.

“We can continue to celebrate and communicate because of the work that Blaze led,” said Mr Boyle.

Looking back on NAIDOC Week and 50 years of ‘deadly’

By Gabriella Vukman

The words ‘50 years of deadly’ have been dotted throughout the Yarra Ranges this July as the Shire, inline with the rest of the nation, celebrated NAIDOC Week last week with exhibitions, family activities and opportunities to learn more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and achievements.

Held annually in early July, NAIDOC Week recognises the history, culture and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Throughout the Yarra Ranges, locals were encouraged to engage with First Nations cultures through community-led events, and activities.

This year’s theme, ‘50 Years of Deadly’ , celebrated five decades of community-led advocacy, cultural pride and truth-telling across the nation.

For First Nations People, the term deadly is a word of pride and celebration, meaning outstanding, excellent, and or brilliant.

With the first official NAIDOC Week tak-

ing place in 1975, this year’s celebration of ‘50 Years of Deadly’ commemorates half a century of progress.

With the NAIDOC celebration and recognition concept originating from the Sydney ‘Day of Morning’ protests held in 1938 150 years after the First Fleet landed in Botany Bay, NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day of Observance Committee.

Acting Director of Planning and Sustainable Futures at the Yarra Ranges Council Nathan Islip said the council is proud to support NAIDOC Week.

With NAIDOC Week events having been run throughout the Yarra Ranges for over 20 years, this year was no exception, with a range of activities inviting residents of all ages and backgrounds to take part in the celebrations.

“The Council remains committed to listening and learning, working alongside Aboriginal communities, and ensuring that the principles of self-determination, and caring for the Country continue to guide the shire’s planning and service delivery,” Mr Islip said.

At the MEMO, visitors experienced the exhibition ‘SPEAKING COUNTRY: Culture Through the Language of Art’ , an exhibition by Yaggerah artist Jenine Godwin-Thompson.

The exhibition explored themes of Country, identity and connection through paintings and traditional weaving, highlighting the enduring nature of Aboriginal knowledge, storytelling and culture.

As part of the exhibition, an official NAIDOC Week celebration featured an artist talk by Ms Godwin-Thompson and a Welcome to Country by a Wurundjeri Elder, giving visitors the opportunity to hear directly from the artist about the inspiration behind her work.

At libraries throughout the Yarra Ranges, NAIDOC Week celebrations continued beyond the official week, allowing the library to dedicate its regular children’s programs to Indigenous culture.

A library spokesperson told Star Mail, “As we had a jam-packed holiday program, we decided to celebrate NAIDOC Week next week so that we could fully incorporate it into our story times without the holiday activities overshadowing it.”

Throughout the week, Tiny Tots, Family Story time and Toddler Story time sessions incorporated Indigenous songs and crafts, while families were invited to decorate feathers for a collaborative Bunjil the Eagle artwork.

Visitors also contributed to a large collaborative First Nations-inspired colouring activity and took part in a NAIDOC-themed treasure hunt, where children decoded a secret message.

The Healesville library also partnered with Healesville Primary School and Eastern Health to present a NAIDOC art gallery in its multimedia space, showcasing artwork created by local students.

The exhibition remained on display beyond NAIDOC Week, giving community members the opportunity to view and celebrate the students’ work.

Through exhibitions, creative activities and community partnerships, Yarra Ranges celebrated Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander cultures while creating opportunities for learning, connection and recognition throughout the community.

Blaze was proud and happy to weave the serpent on the school holidays with her grandmother. (Stewart Chambers: 565994)

Belgrave South got into some activity making. (Supplied)

Detailed eucalypt census

By Callum Ludwig

As Australians are urged to remember the upcoming National Census this August, researchers from The University of Melbourne’s School of Agriculture, Food, and Ecosystem Sciences have just finished conducting one that took extensive work in the Yarra Ranges.

A monitoring plot has been established in the eucalypt forest near McMahons Creek that is more detailed than any other previous plot in Australia, fitting the standard for the Forest Global Observatory (ForestGEO)’s global network of plots.

Author of the study Ella Hellessey said the work was super important because these forests are the most common forest type in Victoria and are also found in Tasmania and New South Wales.

“This forest in particular contains a forest type that we refer to in Victoria as a low-elevation mixed-species eucalyptus…historically,

from a research perspective, they’ve been a little bit overlooked and understudied compared to say, the much more spatially limited but endangered mountain ash forests,” she said.

“By setting up this large long-term plot within one of these low-elevation mixed-species forests, the findings that we get from this research will support forest management and conservation and planning for a much larger, major portion of Victoria’s forested areas, as well as across temperate south-east Australia as well.

“Conventionally, forest inventories historically only included trees that are 10 centimetres and above in diameter, whereas we are including one centimetre and above so we have substantially more trees included.”

As a result of surveying far smaller plants, 51,324 individual trees from 46 species were recorded in the census, while only about 9000 would have been recorded at the 10 centimetre threshold.

Ms Hellessey said, for reference, one centimetre is about the width of a pinky finger, so the census included a lot of shrubs as well as larger trees.

“The large size of it all is also really important as again, traditionally we do forest inventories over smaller areas,” she said.

“I think a lot of the time they’re like 0.1 of a hectare or half a hectare, whereas we have a 16-hectare, so we’re seeing a much larger portion of the landscape.

“As a result of that, we’ve picked up higher species diversity than we would have expected ... .One of the interesting things is that we found about 13 species of eucalypts and traditionally, we probably would have only expected two to maybe seven of them.”

The site of the plot at Starvation Creek stood out to Ms Hellessey and the researchers for many of the same reasons it does as many visitors to the forests of the Yarra Ranges: it was within a two-hour drive from Melbourne, is

Greater gliders fly into threatened future

By Callum Ludwig

A new study has filled a gap in our knowledge of the endangered greater glider and highlighted just how important conserving its habitat in our local forests is.

Researchers from The Australian National University (ANU)’s Fenner School of Environment and Society found that the native critter glides shorter distances and at steeper angles than previously assumed.

This finding has ramifications for preserving glider habitat as we now know it’s more difficult for them to traverse longer distances.

Lead author Dr Ana Gracanin said for a long time, we just didn’t have any data on how far greater gliders can glide.

“So we went out, started this study, got the first ever data set on their gliding capability and what we found was, on average, for every meter they fell, they would glide one meter across,” she said.

“Yellow-bellied gliders, for example, have an average two-to-one ratio, so they can glide and traverse twice as far… so for greater gliders, because they’re not as aerodynamically efficient with their glides, to be able to glide further, they would need really high canopy heights.

“This has implications for conservation planning… Considering the impacts of roads or

designing roads or when thinking about the impacts of logging and deforestation, development and land clearing, those gaps can be really critical because they can isolate populations which increases extinction risk.”

The research team measured 41 glides across five forest locations in New South Wales using infrared cameras, thermal imaging and night-time observations, noting that the gliders launched from an average height of 22 metres, travelled an average horizontal distance of 19 metres and descended at an average angle of 43.5 degrees.

Dr Gracanin said if gliders become isolated and then they attempt to disperse or are pushed out of their habitat, then they could be forced to travel on the ground, which they rarely do.

“They’ve evolved to live in the canopy and

spend their whole lives up in trees, on the ground they are very clumsy and they’re constrained by this big floppy membrane that’s attached to them,” she said.

“On the ground, they really can’t traverse, and if they were to attempt that, they could be eaten by predators or hit by vehicles… they really are adapted to a life that’s 100 per cent in the treetops.

“When those treetops are disconnected, that’s when we see problems occur in the long term because if populations become isolated, they can inbreed or if there’s a heat wave, for example, a local population goes extinct.”

Greater gliders have suffered significant population declines in recent decades, having been listed as vulnerable in 2016 and endangered in 2022, with the Black Summer bushfires killing many or destroying critical habitat.

Greater gliders can be found in the forested areas of the Outer East, including the Yarra Ranges National Park, where the critter made headlines in the Star Mail when one was found dead in 2024 after Forest Fire Management Victoria conducted fire-risk reduction works in the park.

Dr Gracinin said ensuring forests remain intact and there’s as much canopy connectivity as possible is always ideal in the first place.

“What we’ve observed in the field is that

within a special land management protection zone and is in a ‘beautiful little part of the world’ Ms Hellessey said the long-term aspect of the study is super important too due to climate change and it would be great to see more plots established in Australia.

“With everything that’s impacting our forests, seeing how these forests are changing over time is super important when it comes to thinking about how we manage our forests and do conservation,” she said.

“As far as I’m aware, I don’t think there is any plans for more, but that would be amazing, I think one of the major factors limiting that though is that it is quite expensive and very involved, our plot is 16 hectares and for ForestGEO standards, that’s on the smaller end.

“I know that ForestGEO are pretty keen to try and get an Australian tropical plot…Australia is very interesting and a bit unique in how our forests operate, because of our evolution and geographic and geological history.”

when there is canopy connectivity, they will take their typical paths and they will move from tree to tree just by moving from branch to branch, only when trees are isolated, which can happen naturally, then they’ll start to glide to be able to get to places,” she said.

“It’d be great to do more research in Australia because our forests were typically moderately tall, they weren’t super high, whereas in other areas like the Victorian Central Highlands, you have that mountain ash where the trees are way, way, way taller.

“So it’d be very cool and interesting to keep this kind of research going to investigate what the maximum gliding ability is in really, really tall forests.”

Stripes of paint mark the surveyed trees. (Iain Hammond)

The census took in everything from towering eucalypts to low-lying shrubs. (Ella Hellessey)

The field crew out on the ground in McMahons Creek. (Ella Hellessey)

A greater glider launches into the air. (Ana Gracinin)

Two greater gliders prepare to leap off a branch. (Ana Gracinin)

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Children’s book wins high praise

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Monbulk children’s author and Dandenong Ranges Literary Festival committee member, Pauline Hosking has received some fabulous reviews for her new children’s novel, ‘Ana and the Prophecy of the Bones’ Magpies magazine: Talking About Books for Children, which features reviews of new children’s and young adult books, described the novel as a “thoroughly engaging, action-packed adventure” and said it would appeal to middle primary readers who enjoy fantasy, while expressing hope it would be the first in a series.

Meanwhile, Buzz Words described the book as middle grade fantasy that explores self-perception and acceptance”.

For Ms Hosking, the reviews were both exciting and reassuring.

“When you’re writing books - and I also write plays - but when you’re writing anything and you put it out there, over 50 per cent of the time, you don’t get any response, or the response is negative.”

“So to get something positive is fantastic. It sort of affirms what you’ve been doing.”

The book is set in a magical world where 12-year-old spellbinder Ana Gris and her friends fight to protect their island from invasion. During the adventure Ana learns important lessons about herself.

Ms Hosking said the story had been “kicking around” in her mind for years as she worked out how best to tell it.

“The main character is a prodigy. She’s very clever at magic, and one of the things I was interested to look at was how being a prodigy would affect your growth as a person,” she said.

Although Ana is gifted, Ms Hosking said the story is ultimately about recognising the strengths of others.

“She discovers that other people have skills

just as important as hers, and that everybody has a strength they can call on,” she said.

“I think the idea is acceptance, really.”

The novel is aimed at readers aged 12, but it has also resonated with and captured the attention of younger reviewers.

A 10-year-old boy reviewer awarded the book four-and-a-half stars out of five and recommended it to children aged nine to 12 who enjoy fantasy.

Ms Hosking said writing has been a lifelong passion.

“I’ve always been a good reader, and I’ve always written,” she said.

“I actually like the whole process of sitting down and thinking and then writing. It’s a very immersive, comforting thing to do.”

Alongside writing, Ms Hosking is also a committee member of the Dandenong Ranges Literary Festival, where she is responsible for children’s events.

She said creating opportunities for young people to meet authors and engage with books was something she felt strongly about.

“I firmly believe that reading, writing and developing a creative imagination are a fantastic gifts every child needs to experience,” Ms Hosking said.

Working in partnership with Belgrave Library, the festival has organised two children’s author events ahead of the main festival, something Ms Hosking hopes will encourage more young people to discover a love of reading.

While Ana and the Prophecy of the Bones has received a warm reception, Ms Hosking’s focus has now shifted back to playwriting, with several children’s plays due to be published this year and a number of adult plays currently being revised.

“I’m lucky. It’s been a good year so far,” she said.

Pauline’s book s are available from the Belgrave Book Barn and online bookstores.

Climate change biennale approaches at Burrinja centre

The fourth Burrinja Climate Change Biennale or BCCB#4 approaches and promises to be a region-wide celebration of arts, ideas and action as the full program was announced on Wednesday 15 July.

Running from Saturday to 22 August to Sunday 25 October this year, the theme for the large and region wide showcase is art, activism, adaptation and hope.

The BCCB#4 will bring together artists, activists,academics,filmmakersandcommunityleaders to explore creative responses to the climate crisis through a diverse program of exhibitions, screenings, talks, performances, workshops and immersive experiences presented across the Yarra Ranges.

Imagined, planned and delivered in close partnershipwithYarraRangesCouncil,thisyear’s biennale will activate venues including Burrinja, Yarra Ranges Regional Museum and The Memo in Healesville, creating opportunities for audiences to engage with climate issues through culture, creativity and conversation.

Burrinja chief executive officer and creative director Melanie Burge said the biennale reflects both the challenges and strengths of the local community.

“Burrinja’s foundation is deeply embedded in community strength and activism,” she said.

“The Dandenong Ranges and the Yarra Ranges are home to so many artists, thinkers and passionate community-builders, and their residents have lived experience of the impacts of climate change.”

“Burrinja is proud to offer a space for creative resistance, inquiry and hope.”

Across nine weeks, the BCCB#4 will present over 30 experiences, including exhibitions, film screenings, a virtual reality installation, panel conversations, a keynote presentation, musical

performances, workshops, a play reading and guided nature walks.

A major highlight of the program is the Acquisitive Award Exhibition, which will feature works by more than 40 artists from across Australia.

Offering a $3000 acquisitive prize, the exhibition received a record 99 submissions this year, reflecting both the extraordinary imagination of contemporary artists and the growing urgency of climate-related concerns.

Burrinja’s curator, JD Mittmann said Burrinja received an overwhelming number of outstanding applications.

“It speaks to the extraordinary imagination and creativity of the artists who submitted works, while also reflecting the growing urgency and concern surrounding climate-related issues,” he said.

The Biennale’s ideas program will include Regenerative Futures Talks, a free series of thought-provoking conversations co-curated by

Burrinja, Yarra Ranges Regional Museum and RMIT University’s Regenerative Futures Institute. Held across three Saturday afternoons, the talks bring together academics, artists, activists and First Nations Peoples to examine questions including how economies and material culture might be redesigned to heal rather than harm, how climate action can be communicated effectively, and how communities can build resilience in the face of increasing environmental challenges.

Yarra Ranges Regional Museum Director Megan Sheehy said the partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration across disciplines.

“At Yarra Ranges Regional Museum we aim to create hope and inspiration for our shared future,” she said.

Ms Sheehy said the museum is delighted to partner with Burrinja to deliver a region-wide Biennale this year.

“We are working across the boundaries that traditionally separate history, science, art and research to activate the Yarra Ranges community’s extraordinary creativity and long history of care for Country,” she said.

Visual media will be a part of the experience on offer for 2026, with films curated by Environmental Films Australia, set to showcase Australian and international short and feature-length films exploring climate activism, adaptation and pathways forward.

Additional highlights include a keynote presentation by leading climate scientist Professor David Karoly and performances by acclaimed regenerative living advocates and musical innovators Formidable Vegetable.

The official launch celebration for the biennale is at the opening of the Acquisitive Award Exhibition on Sunday 23 August at Burrinja.

Monbulk children’s author, Pauline Hosking showcasing her books. (Supplied)

Monbulk children’s author Pauline Hosking has received several positive reviews for her new novel, ‘Ana and the Prophecy of the Bones’. (Supplied)

The Great Wave Goodbye, 2017. (Artwork by Chris Lawry).

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Artwork out of this world

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

A Dandenong Ranges artist is taking a piece of Melbourne’s COVID-19 lockdown experience to the moon, with a collection of her artworks selected for the Lunar Codex, an international archive of human creativity, stored inside a time capsule, preserved on the lunar surface.

The Patch artist, singer-songwriter, musician and graphic designer, Tracey Roberts is showcasing the collection in her exhibition, ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ , at MAGNET Galleries in Docklands from 10 July to 2 August.

The exhibition features 12 one-of-a-kind fine art prints commemorating the works that form part of the Lunar Codex, including three pieces created during Melbourne’s historic lockdowns that explore themes of music, isolation and resilience.

Learn more about Ms Roberts and the inspiration behind her work in the Q and A below.

Q: How did the idea for the ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ first come about and what inspired you to revisit these works through the lens of the moon?

A: “I wanted to celebrate the fact that 12 of my artworks are going to the moon, as this concept is quite significant, not just for humanity and space exploration, but also within my practice as an artist.

“An exhibition at MAGNET Galleries, with whom I’ve had a long association, felt like the perfect way to do that. The Lunar Codex is an amazing global project to be part of, so I wanted to create a 1 of 1 edition of the collection, incorporating the moon into each artwork to acknowledge its lunar journey, and also create the illusion of the art floating in space.

“Each artwork is also printed on selected

handmade papers from around the world, making every piece especially unique.”

Q: Three of the pieces were created during Melbourne’s lockdowns. Reflecting back, what emotions or memories do those artworks hold for you now?

A: “It certainly is interesting to look at these particular artworks now.

“The torrid wave in Covidity reminds me that the Covid years were a tumultuous time for everyone. There are a multitude of emotions attached to this piece, mostly the feeling of helplessness and being completely overwhelmed.

“The unstable, partially ‘disappearing into the blue’ piano in ‘Discombobulation in Dm’ reminds me of the lockdown days when I felt completely demotivated as a performing artist because everything stopped.

“‘Autumn Uke’ , on the other hand, reminds me of happier lockdown moments when I found solace and comfort in my music garden.”

Q: Your work has become part of the Lunar Codex, meaning it will be preserved on the moon. What was your reaction when you found out?

A: “At first I didn’t believe it, I think I laughed a lot.

“The reality set in as I started researching the project, and the more I learned, the more it felt less crazy and more like an enormous privilege and an actuality, although I do sometimes feel like I’m an extra in a science fiction movie.”

Q: You’ve described synaesthesia as a key influence on your work. How does it shape the way you create?

A: “Having music-colour synaesthesia is as natural and unremarkable as breathing to me, but I’m very aware it adds a beautiful dimension to the way I hear and create music.

“It feels like a gift to express that relationship through my artwork. Although every piece begins as a pencil drawing, the digital process lets me experiment with colour, geometry and texture until I reach the moment where what’s on the screen

matches the imagery in my head.”

Q: Your exhibition brings together art, music and science in a unique way. How have those different backgrounds influenced your creative process?

A: “I’ve always drawn, played music and sung, and over time those interests began to merge.

“I’ve always loved Mathematics and Biology, and I have a Science degree majoring in Computer Science, so using digital tools to create art felt completely natural.

“Learning about synaesthesia finally explained why music and colour had always been connected in my mind, and that led to this body of richly layered, colourful, music-inspired artwork.”

Q: What do you hope visitors take away from the ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ exhibition?

A: “I hope visitors are inspired by humanity’s ability to do extraordinary things, like putting art on the moon inside a microscopic gallery representing more than 50,000 creatives from around the world.

“I also hope people are reminded how fragile we are, and that science and the arts are equally important. Although we experience the world differently, fundamentally everything is connected – multiple disciplines, along with freedom, kindness and respect, can all work together, and we need all of it.”

Ms Roberts exhibition will be running at the MAGNET Galleries in Docklands until Sunday, 2 August.

She will also perform a ‘Moon Songs’ concert at the gallery on Friday 24 July at 7pm, and do an Artist’s talk on Wednesday, 29 July at 11am.

More information can be found at www.traceyroberts.com

Diverse stories return with Voices from the Edge

Music, storytelling and visual art will come together in Tecoma as a community event returns with a huge line up of talent and diversity set to be on show for the hills in early August.

Voices from the Edge will be held at Tecoma Uniting Church on Sunday 2 August, bringing together performers, artists and speakers from First Nations, LGBTQIA+, disability, refugee and migrant communities.

Organiser and Tecoma Uniting Church Minister Matthew Cutler said the event was designed to provide a platform for people to share their own stories.

“Voices from the Edge is about creating a community where everyone knows they belong,” he said.

“When we make space to hear one another’s stories with openness and curiosity, we begin to break down fear, build genuine connection and recognise the gifts that every person brings.”

The afternoon program includes performances by all-abilities choir With One Voice, Ngiyampaa singer-songwriter PIRRITU, storyteller and refugee advocate Mariam Issa, and Melbourne pianist and composer Celeste Willoughby.

An exhibition of works by local artists responding to the theme “(un)Seen” will also be on display, alongside panel discussions and interactive art activities and will see young Wade Keighley, an accomplished local abstract artist bring his works of vibrant creative energy to the selection.

0A family friendly event, Emma Chandler will be leading a special session just for kids and families full of kindness, wonder, songs, a little magic, and plenty of silliness and the event will also see the With One Voice Bayswater choir take the stage.

Voices from the Edge launched in 2024 and

has previously seen the likes of artists such as Fleassy Malay, The Blurred Lines and Saint Ergo grace the stage at the church. Open to all ages, tickets cost $30, or $20 concession, with free entry for First Nations people, Companion Card holders and children under 16 the event promises connections, and a deeper appreciation for the diverse voices that enrich the community.

Voices from the Edge will be held from 1pm to 5.30pm at Tecoma Uniting Church on Sunday 2 August, community can find out more by contacting the church or heading to their social media.

Tracey Roberts with the hero artwork, ‘Covidity’, from her ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ exhibition. (Julia Broad)

L-R: Megan Smith, Gwendolen de Lacy, Tracey Roberts and Leonie Macreadie. (Julia Broad)

A young abstract artist Wade will bring his enthusiasm and energy to Voices from the Edge. (Leticia Hodson).With One Voice choir from Bayswater are among many of the acts on the set list for Voices from the Edge. (Facebook).

Avenue inspires excellence

Every young person deserves the opportunity to learn in an environment where they feel safe, valued and supported. At The Avenue School in Ferntree Gully, that belief is at the heart of everything they do, providing a specialist, independent education for students who have experienced challenges in mainstream schooling.

Supporting young people facing school disengagement, anxiety, mental health concerns and other barriers to learning, The Avenue School offers a welcoming environment where students can reconnect with education, rediscover confidence and work towards achieving their personal goals.

Guided by its mission to provide a safe, in-

clusive and engaging learning environment, the school empowers every student to achieve success in education, wellbeing and life. This commitment is reflected in the school’s core values of Belonging, Respect, Growth, Compassion and Empowerment, creating a culture where every individual is encouraged to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.

The Avenue School currently offers senior secondary pathways including the Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC), Victorian Certificate of Education Vocational Major (VCE VM), individualised learning plans, flexible learning pathways, onsite Vocational Education and Training (VET), Certificate II in Small Business Innovation

and Operations, and Certificate II in Active Volunteering. Looking to the future, the school will expand to offer Years 7–12 from 2027 (Years 7–10 registration pending), providing students with a continuous and supportive pathway throughout their secondary education.

Learning extends well beyond the classroom through a range of engaging elective programs including Animal Care, Art, Music and Digital Literacy, allowing students to explore their passions while developing valuable life and career skills.

Student wellbeing remains a key priority, with a dedicated team of on-site psychologists, youth workers, counsellors and education support staff working alongside students every step of the way.

The school’s trauma-informed approach and Animal Assisted Wellbeing program further enhance the supportive learning environment.

The popular FIT Program also encourages students to build healthy habits, confidence and resilience through gym sessions, self-defence training, team sports and outdoor recreation, promoting both physical and emotional wellbeing.

By combining personalised learning, meaningful relationships and comprehensive wellbeing support, The Avenue School continues to inspire excellence, build futures and nurture minds, helping every student realise their potential and confidently embrace the opportunities ahead.

The Avenue School aims to help kids rediscover confidence and reconnect with education. (File)Enjoy the welcoming environment at The Avenue School.

ENROLMENTS Shaping young men for life

Choosing the right secondary school is one of the most important decisions families make, and for generations, St Joseph’s College, Ferntree Gully, has been recognised as a leader in boys’ education, providing students with the knowledge, confidence and values they need to thrive both in school and beyond.

As a proud Salesian school, St Joseph’s College offers an education that is focused on life, centred on each individual and founded on the respectful relationships between teachers and students. Inspired by the teachings of St John Bosco, the College creates a welcoming and supportive environment where every young man is known, encouraged and challenged to achieve his personal best.

At the heart of the College is a commitment to dynamic learning. Students benefit from a broad and innovative curriculum that caters for a diverse range of interests, abilities and aspirations. Whether their strengths lie in academics, the arts, technology, sport or vocational pathways, every student is provided with opportunities to discover their passions and develop the skills needed for future success.

Beyond the classroom, St Joseph’s College offers an extensive co-curricular program that enriches the educational experience and encourages students to build confidence, leadership, resilience and lifelong friendships. Combined with strong pastoral care and a vibrant College community, students are supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually throughout their educational journey.

The College’s focus on educating the whole person ensures graduates leave as capable, compassionate and responsible young men, prepared to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the wider world.

Families considering enrolment are encouraged to explore everything St Joseph’s College

has to offer. The College welcomes prospective students and their families to discover firsthand the supportive learning environment, outstanding facilities and strong sense of community that

have made St Joseph’s a trusted choice for boys’ education in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

To learn more, browse the College website or contact St Joseph’s College on (03) 9758 2000 or

email welcome@stjosephs.com.au. For enrolment enquiries, contact the Enrolments Office on (03) 9756 3112 or email enrolments@stjosephs.com.au.

St Joseph’s College is a leader in boys’ education. (Unsplash)

Rich history now on paper

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

A new book capturing the journey of Monbulk Rangers Soccer Club (MRSC), from its humble beginnings as an idea discussed in a kitchen in 1970 to the club it is today, has been released.

The book, written by Crispian Deacon traces the story of the Monbulk Soccer Club’s formation by the Koonen and Duivenvorden families, its evolution into Monbulk Rangers, and the connections with Sherbrooke Rangers and Gembrook Soccer Club.

The 180-page book aims to recognise the many players, volunteers, families and community members who have contributed to the club over the decades.

Mr Deacon said his personal connection to the club, having played at Monbulk Rangers as a junior in 1981 and 1982 before returning in 2010, was one of the reasons he was inspired to document its history.

With extensive experience in sports administration at local, state and national levels, Mr Deacon said grassroots sport played an important role in communities and provided the foundation for success at higher levels.

“There are many people that give and work tirelessly at local level to support representative teams and I strongly believe that the efforts of these people should be recognised,” Mr Deacon said. “Putting together a book of this type helps to recognise these people, clearly, it is a limited audience but I think the story needs to be told.”

The story begins in 1970, when the foundations of the club were laid during a conversation between family members in Martha Duivenvorden’s kitchen.

Mr Deacon said what stood out to him during his research was the courage it took to turn an idea into reality.

“The logistical difficulties that were involved in setting up a club like the MRSC,” he said. “How

a discussion between a few family members has evolved to become a large local club that offers opportunities for everyone in the community.”

While the book focuses on Monbulk Rangers, Mr Deacon also included the histories of Sherbrooke Rangers and Gembrook Soccer Club to ensure their contributions to football in the region were recognised.

The author said the book was originally intended to be titled Football in the Dandenongs because of the number of people who had helped promote the sport across the region.

“Obviously the book is just about the MRSC. I still wanted other people that had been involved in promoting the sport in the region to be recognised,” he said. “Their contribution could possibly be lost if they weren’t mentioned in the book.”

Mr Deacon said Gembrook Soccer Club became part of the wider Monbulk Rangers story, while Sherbrooke Rangers Junior Soccer Club, which operated independently for 40 years, amalgamated with Monbulk Rangers in 2009.

He said their contribution deserved recognition and that Sherbrooke Rangers Junior Soccer Club’s own history was worthy of a dedicated book.

During his research, Mr Deacon uncovered stories that highlighted the club’s role beyond football, including how it had provided support and connection for members during difficult times. He said one former member told him the club had helped him through a challenging period of his life by providing support and solidarity.

“I wanted the prevailing idea to be that this was a community club,” Mr Deacon said. “That it supported people and it gave people a personal connection.”

The club has affectionately been referred to by some members as the “Monny Family”

Mr Deacon said the longevity of Monbulk Rangers came down to the dedication of the many people who had contributed their time, money, expertise and passion to the club.

“There has just been so many selfless people that have contributed with time, money, expertise, love, etc,” he said.

David Buckley, who was involved with the former Monbulk Soccer Club and later assisted with the book project, helped Mr Deacon by providing information and many of the photographs featured in the publication. Mr Buckley spent years involved with the club, including time on the Monbulk Soccer Club board and committee, and had previously attempted to compile a history of the club himself. He said the project grew after Mr Deacon approached the club about documenting its history.

“He came and had a chat with Jim (Bras), Barry and myself, and it went off from there,” Mr Buckley said. “We had a load of stuff that we’d already collected, which we supplied to him, and then we did our best to try to accumulate information for him as well.”

Mr Buckley said seeing the club’s history

brought together in one place was special for those who had been involved over many years.

“It’s wonderful. At last, we’ve got something that, when the club broke up from our perspective and became Monbulk Rangers, brings back the memories,” he said. “It accumulates everything into this book.”

Mr Buckley said the book was an important record for former players, families and members who wanted to reconnect with the club’s past.

“This is your history. This is what this club’s all about,” he said. “It’s been there for a long time, for about 50-odd years, and it’s our local club.”

Mr Deacon said one of the highlights of creating the book was meeting Barry Duivenvoorden, one of the original family members involved in establishing the club.

Mr Duivenvoorden invited Mr Deacon into his home to discuss the club’s history and introduced him to his daughter and grandson.

Mr Deacon also highlighted the contributions of significant club members including David Buckley, David Ceeney, Jim Bras and Aliesha Bannister.

Monbulk Rangers Soccer Club president, Kerry Gibbs said the club appreciated the work undertaken to preserve its history.

“We’d like to acknowledge the countless hours dedicated by Crispian in compiling these reflections of Monbulk Rangers Soccer Club, celebrating our rich Dutch and English heritage and the wonderful community members who have shaped our club’s history,” Ms Gibbs said.

Mr Deacon said his hope was that former players, volunteers, families and current members would see the book as recognition of their efforts.

“The hope was always to say ‘Hey, you did this, thank you’,” he said.

Mr Deacon said the 180-page book aimed to capture as much of the club’s story as possible. The book is now available at the Bendigo Bank.

Sixty years on the mat for club, and 48 years for teacher Trevor

By James Lee

Trevor Lightfoot was only five years old when a judo demonstration at his primary school stopped him in his tracks.

By his mother’s account, he did not stop talking about it for weeks.

Forty-eight years later he is still on the mat, only now he is the one teaching.

Tecoma Judo Club, one of the district’s oldest sporting institutions, has moved to the Belgrave South Scouts’ hall in Station Street after many years training out of the gymnasium of Tecoma Primary School.

The club has a long history in the local community - it was founded in 1962 by Sensei Nick Witkamp in the old Girl Guides’ Hall in Tecoma, and by 1976 had produced three members of an Australian championship-winning team, Brian Barry, Karl Brocker, and Lyle Parry, a striking record for a small local club.

Trevor’s own story is strongly connected to the man who started it. Taken along to the Tecoma club as a boy, he was, by Sensei Nick’s account, no natural.

Trevor recalls Sensei Nick’s own words about Trevor as a young boy: “He (Nick) said I went right when I was meant to go left, and went left when I was meant to go right.”

But Trevor kept turning up. Sensei Nick took him under his wing, and the mentorship lasted the rest of the sensei’s life. Over the years, the mat has taken Trevor a long way from home, including a year training in London.

Former Tecoma members have gone on to open clubs of their own interstate and in New Zealand, which Trevor puts down to Sensei Nick’s dedication and mentorship.

Back home in the hills, Trevor began assisting with classes at age 30, and at 35 he was asked to take over the coaching.

Sensei Nick died in 2015, aged 82. The club he founded has carried on under its new Sensei Trevor ever since.

These days the club is as much about families as competition.

Trevor might be teaching a seven-year-old and a 40-year-old in the same session, and he likes it that way.

“You don’t get to a black belt and stop learning,” he said.

He is quick to point to what the sport does for children who are struggling with confidence, discipline or self-esteem, with the change in them over time being plain to see.

Parents, he adds, are welcome on the mat alongside their kids.

“I always tell parents and pupils to jump on the mat and give it a go,” he said.

“You don’t get the same experience watching.”

Leaving the club’s longstanding Tecoma location was not easy.

“The hardest part was taking the club out of

Tecoma, where it originated,” Trevor said. It took months of talking to halls, locals and council before finding a new home - the Belgrave South Scouts offered the same Tuesday night slot the club has run for 50 years, along with somewhere to store its mats.

“They have been wonderful to deal with and very accommodating,” Trevor said.

The move keeps the club among old company. The Station Street scouts hall is a fixture in its own right, having long been the home of the 1st Belgrave Scouts, who marked their centenary there in 2024 before the Belgrave South group took it on.

For Trevor, the pull of the sport still comes down to a single moment he has never forgotten - training with the club’s adults as a teenager, and finally landing a clean throw on a far bigger, stronger opponent.

He remembers the split second when timing, coordination and skill came together, and the smile and nod of acknowledgement from the man he had just put on the ground. “This is what we chase,” he said.

More than 60 years on from its first class, the club is chasing it from a new address on the same Tuesday nights, same mats, same sporting spirit. Tecoma Judo Club trains on Tuesday nights at the Belgrave South Scout hall, 28 Station Street,

Sensei Trevor Lightfoot continues the legacy of Tecoma Judo Club founder Nick Witkamp, teaching students of all ages. (Supplied)

A very muddy pitch against Old Scotch (1981). (supplied)

Installing goals at Joe Bast’s farm training ground (circa 1971). (supplied)

Three important figures in the club’s history: (L-R) Trevor Ricketts (long-term president), Taffy Roberts (coach and player), and Leo Meinderts (groundsman and key contributor over the years). (Supplied)

REV IT UP Customer satisfaction the goal

New Belgrave Motors are reliable, experienced and always go the extra mile.

Owners and dynamic duo Shane and Cindy Taylor say safety is the number one priority.

“We keep our customers and their families safe in roadworthy, reliable cars,” they said.

Bringing bountiful experience to the job, no vehicle is too big or small, and extensive service options are available for all kinds of cars and 4WDs.

Licensed Vehicle Testers for VicRoads (RWCs) and VACC-approved repairers, New Belgrave Motors also has two courtesy cars that can be reserved free of charge when booking a service.

Founded in the ‘90s, Shane has been with New Belgrave since 1998 and enjoys working on older vehicles.

Sharing his passion, Cindy said many mechanics shy away from older cars.

“We love them!” she said.

Cindy started with New Belgrave in 2007, doing the books on the weekends and the pair bought the business in 2010, relocating from Belgrave to Ferntree Gully in 2018.

“Nearly all of our amazing customers still travel down the hill to see us for their servicing and repairs, and we are so very grateful for this support,” Cindy said.

Thoughtful touches like iconic lolly bags for the ride home and key rings with bottle openers highlight the team’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

The team will keep you updated via phone calls and texts, and there’s a comfy couch, coffee machine and free wifi.

Trading hours are 8am - 5pm Monday to Friday, with an RDO every second Monday.

Pop in today and meet the crew at 19 Kevin Avenue, Ferntree Gully.

Book now and get a free quote on 03 9125 6362.

Max, Louis, Cindy and Shane at the wheel alignment area. (Stewart Chambers: 432497)

State’s schools run to the Yarra Ranges

By Gabriella Vukman

On Thursday July 16, the thunder of hooves at Yarra Glen Racecourse was replaced with the patter of thousands of feet, as School Sports Victoria held its annual State Championships Cross Country competition.

The Yarra Ranges venue became a hub of excitement, determination and school pride as students from across Victoria raced against the best young cross-country runners in the state.

Athletes who had progressed through a series of qualifying events arrived with the goal of representing their schools and testing themselves on one of the biggest stages in Victorian school sport.

For many students, reaching the State Championships represents the end of a journey that began with competition against local schools.

In the primary pathway, students progress through District, Division and Region competitions before reaching the State Championship level. Secondary students progress through Division and Region competitions before qualifying for State.

Chief executive officer at School Sport Victoria (SSV) Rayoni Nelson said the event represented the culmination of a statewide program designed to give students the opportunity to compete, develop and represent their communities.

“Today we’re at the School Sport Victoria State Cross Country Championships here at the Yarra Valley Racecourse,” Ms Nelson said.

“This is the culmination of our inter-school sport program across Victoria, so we’ve had quite a number of lead-up events across primary and secondary, and the students progress from local level competitions right through to division, region, and here at state championships today.”

The championships also play an important role in identifying athletes who may progress to higher levels of competition.

The SSV State Cross Country Championships is the selection event for the 2026 Team Vic Cross Country 10-12 Years Team, giving eligible students the opportunity to be considered for state representation.

To qualify for the State Championships, primary students must progress through the Primary District, Primary Division and Primary

Region levels, while secondary students progress through the Secondary Division and Secondary Region pathway.

Eligible students from SSV affiliate member secondary schools may also be invited to compete.

“It’s really a culmination for a lot of students at the top of the pathway for the inter-school sport program,” Ms Nelson said.

“For some of the younger age students, we are also selecting our Team Vic team for School Sport Australia Championships, so for some of the age groups this is actually a selection opportunity.”

The championships cater for students across a wide range of age groups, including primary categories for 9-10 years, 11 years and 12-13 years, and secondary categories from 12-13 years through to 17-20 years.

Multi-class events are also included across primary and secondary age groups, providing opportunities for students with disability to compete.

“It’s really important that we do provide opportunities for all students to participate,” Ms Nelson said.

The scale of the cross-country program highlights just how many students are involved each year.

In 2025, SSV’s cross-country inter-school sport program recorded more than 73,000 student engagement opportunities, with 83 per cent coming from primary school students and 17 per cent

Contactless payment rollout arrives

Public transport in the Yarra Valley had a major upgrade last weekend as the Labor Government launched the next phase of its contactless payment rollout across regional and metropolitan bus networks.

On Sunday 19 July, commuters in the Yarra Valley, alongside those in Ballarat, Bendigo, Seymour, Geelong, Traralgon, Warragul, Bacchus Marsh, Sunbury, Berwick, and Cranbourne, were able to ditch their physical myki cards and “tap on” using their bank cards, smartphones, or smartwatches.

The regional upgrade was part of a massive blitz that will see more than 2500 myki-enabled buses progressively upgraded. By Sunday 26 July, the entire Melbourne bus network will be complete, marking a milestone where every single myki-enabled train, tram, and bus in Victoria accepts contactless payments.

ActingMinisterforPublicandActiveTransport Nick Staikos highlighted the convenience the technology brings to daily commuters.

“From Sunday, tap and go will progressively roll out on buses across Victoria – making getting around even easier,” Mr Staikos said.

“Whether it’s a train, a tram or now a bus, we’re making it simpler for Victorians to get where they need to go.”

from secondary students.

The event also produced strong performances from local schools, with students from across the Yarra Valley and Outer East making their mark among Victoria’s best young runners.

In the SSV State Combined Primary and Secondary Girls 9-10 Years event, Alma H from Tecoma Primary School finished ninth overall in race 243 with a time of 7:30.103, while Sadie E from Croydon Hills Primary School placed sixth in race 250, recording a time of 7:42.433.

Lilydale High School student Zoe C finished third in the Girls 17-20 Years category with a time of 11:39.743, while Upwey High School student Spencer J recorded a time of 12:59.963 in the Multi-Class Boys 13-15 Years event.

Eastern Metro Primary Region Coordinator at SSV Daniel Thomas said more schools from the valley and surrounding hills areas were making their mark at state level.

“We have schools ranging from as far west in our region as Hawthorn to as far east as Wesburn,” Mr Thomas said.

“A lot of schools from the valley this way at the moment, up in the hills to Gembrook, down to Waverley, Oakley and everywhere in between really.”

Mr Thomas said Yarra Glen Racecourse had become a standout venue for the competition due to its facilities, challenging course and ability to host thousands of competitors and spectators.

“We needed an event with better amenities, a challenging track, a space to hold the amount of people,” he said.

“And the racecourse does just that.”

Beyond the competition itself, the championships provided an opportunity to showcase the Yarra Valley and bring visitors into the Outer East community.

“It’s just great to have everyone come out to the Outer East,” Mr Thomas said.

“Having people come to the valley and support the local community with their patronage has been wonderful.”

As runners crossed the finish line and schools celebrated their achievements, the day highlighted the role of cross country in connecting students from across Victoria through sport, teamwork and shared ambition.

The technology utilises secure, encrypted software to process transactions via Visa or Mastercard credit and debit cards, as well as digital wallets. Passengers will also be able to track their travel costs via a new online contactless payments portal.

The rollout follows highly successful trials that began in March, which have already seen commuters flock to the new system.

“More than two million tap and go trips have been taken, demonstrating Victorians love the convenience of using their bank card or phone to travel,” Mr Staikos said.

While the system is being switched on in stages over the next 10 days, transport authorities are urging passengers to keep their myki cards handy. Commuters should look for the Visa or Mastercard logos on individual bus ticket readers to confirm if the technology is live on their specific vehicle.

Additionally, passengers who need to connect between different bus services are advised to stick to their myki until the entire network-wide rollout is complete on 26 July.

Important Fare Restrictions: The new tapand-go system is currently available for fullfare customers only. Concession card holders, seniors, and anyone under 18 must continue using their concession or free Youth myki to access their discounted rates.

For those making the switch, transit officials recommend taking your payment card out of your wallet before tapping to avoid “card clash” (where the reader accidentally scans the wrong card), and ensuring your account has sufficient funds before boarding. Passengers who prefer the traditional myki can continue to use it exactly as before.

To ease the transition, station staff and Authorised Officers will be deployed across the network to assist commuters. Transport officials reassured the public that when Authorised Officers inspect contactless payments, they cannot see banking details or any personal identification.

Passengers looking to track their trips or learn more about the rollout can visit the official hub at transport.vic.gov.au/tickets-and-myki/contactless-payments

Tens of thousands of people flocked to the Yarra Glen Racecourse to compete and spectate at School Sports Victoria’s State Championships Cross Country competition. (Stewart Chambers :565898).

Big crowds attended the event. (Stewart Chambers: 565898).

Proud parents take a photo of their kids on the podium (Stewart Chambers: 565898).

Off to the starting line (Stewart Chambers: 565898).

Rayoni Nelson (CEO at School Sport Victoria) with Reece Langdon (Australian track and field paraathlete) (Stewart Chambers: 565898).

The Yarra Valley bus network will be switched to contactless payments from Sunday 19 July. (Unsplash)

Bigger, better facilities

There have been two major milestones for our community recently, with the official opening of the expanded Angliss Hospital and the new pavilion at Tormore Reserve in Boronia.

After years of planning and construction, it was fantastic to join Premier Jacinta Allan, Minister for Health Harriet Shing and Member for Monbulk Daniela De Martino along with Julie Buxton, Labor’s Candidate for Bayswater to celebrate the opening of the bigger, better Angliss Hospital.

The $112 million redevelopment delivers a modern four-storey expansion featuring four operating theatres, a new 32-bed inpatient unit, expanded outpatient services and the capacity to treat an additional 1,300 patients every year. As Melbourne’s outer east continues to grow, the expandedhospitalwillhelpmeetincreasingdemand for healthcare closer to home while easing pressure on emergency departments and inpatient services across Eastern Health. It will also create 49 new full-time equivalent jobs for our dedicated healthcare workforce.

ered.”

The state state of Jackson Taylor Bayswater MP

Another exciting project has also reached completion with the official opening of the new pavilion at Tormore Reserve in Boronia.

affairs

while creating valuable new spaces for schools and community groups to meet and connect.

Grassrootssportistheheartbeatofoutersuburban communities like Boronia. The new Tormore Reserve pavilion provides the Hawks Football Netball and Cricket Clubs and the wider community a great new base to come together and participate in the sports they love.

Minister Harriet Shing said the upgraded facility would provide world-class care with the staff, technology and facilities Victorians deserve, while Member for Monbulk Daniela De Martino said the improvements would ensure local families could enjoy excellent modern hospital facilities much closer to home. I was proud to support this important investment and, as I said on the day, “We promised the community an expanded Angliss Hospital and that is exactly what we have deliv-

Premier Jacinta Allan said, “We’ve delivered a bigger, better Angliss Hospital to make life easier for local families – just like we promised.” Health

Comedy in the Vines With George Lewis, Lano and Woodley, Mel Buttle, Merrick Watts.

Australia’s premiere of festival of comedy, wine and wildly good times is back, and in 2026 it’s bigger than ever. Comedy in the Vines returns to Cherry Hill Orchards in the heart of Victoria’s stunning Yarra Valley delivering four days of world class comedy, premium wine experiences, live music and unforgettable festival moments.

Created by the masterminds of Grapes of Mirth, and supported by the Victorian Government’s Regional Events Fund and local partner Tourism Eastern, Comedy in the Vines has become an unmissable event on the national festival calendar, bringing together a raft of comedy stars, award-winning winemakers and unforgettable experiences in one spectacular destination. Tickets are available at comedyinthevines.com.

Season: Thursday 22 October - Sunday 25 October.

The 1812 Theatre Treasure Island

Brave yourselves for Adventure on the high seas. The 1812 Theatre is gearing up to unleash a storm of swashbuckling chaos with Ken Ludwig’s theatrical adaptation of Treasure Island, directed by Erin O’Hare.

This isn’t your quiet dusty classic. This is Treasure Island at full throttle – packed with 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 Hawkins as he’s hurled into world of pirates, peril, and pulse-pounding twists, Long John Silver schemes in the shadows, tempers flare, swords clash, and the story races toward with the speed of a cannon blast.

It’s bold, it’s boisterous, it’s burning with wit. And it transforms the stage into high stakes,

Kemp’s

high energy adventure you won’t want to miss. Season: 6 - 29 August. Bookings: 9758 3964.

Karralyka Theatre

Alone but All One, Katie Noonan’s new album, is here! This intimate and powerful work explores love on all its stages and marks her first songwriting collaboration with acclaimed author Trent Dalton.

A delicate offering, it features Katie’s piano and a string quartet as the sole accompanist to her exquisite vocals. Recorded live in her lounge room on Gubbi Gubbi Country, this strippedback album represents a quiet turning inwarda return to something essential, honest, and deeply moving.

Season: Friday 9 October at 7.30m.

The Princess Theatre- Melbourne

The Neil Diamond Musical – A Beautiful Noise. Created in Neil Diamond himself, A Beautiful Noise is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-busting, showstopping American Rock icon. With more than 130 million albums sold, a catalogue of classics like America, Forever in Blue Jeans, and Sweet Caroline, an induction into the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and sold-out concerts around the world that made him bigger than Elvis. Neil Diamond’s story was made to shine on Broadway, where the biggest stars tell their story. Season: 5 - 30 August.

Joined by Federal Member for Aston Mary Doyle,KnoxMayorCrPaigeKennettandrepresentatives from our local sporting clubs, we celebrated the completion of a facility that will benefit the Boronia Football Netball Club, Boronia Cricket Club and the wider community for decades to come. The new pavilion was made possible through a $1.2 million Victorian Government investment, together with contributions from the Australian Government and Knox City Council.

Home to more than 550 local players, the reserve now boasts four modern change rooms designed to support women and girls, social and multi-purpose spaces, meeting rooms, improved kitchen and kiosk facilities, additional storage and upgraded spectator areas. The pavilion also strengthens Tormore Reserve’s reputation as an important venue for Eastern Football Netball League and Eastern Cricket Association finals,

Labor’s candidate for Bayswater, Julie Buxton, welcomed the completion of both projects, saying, “Our community deserves first-class healthcare and quality local sporting facilities. It’s wonderful to see both of these important projects now complete, creating places where people can access the care they need, participate in sport and build strong community connections.”

These projects demonstrate the importance of continuing to invest in the services and facilities our growing community relies on. Whether it’s delivering better healthcare at Angliss Hospital or modern sporting infrastructure that brings people together, they will benefit local families for generations to come.

Must-watch movie from Nolan

4.5/5

Adapting one of the most famous stories ever told, Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey follows Odysseus (Matt Damon), king of the Greek city of Ithaca, on his long, perilous journey home, while suitors squabble for the hand of his wife Penelope (Anne Hathaway).

Damon plays Odysseus as a steely, weary veteran who is deeply loyal yet coldly pragmatic. The despair of Odysseus’s lost men mirrors the rowdy strife in his home, and the sombre narrative muses on resolve, regret, hubris and how purging the world of rot can sometimes

As the world continues to mourn the loss of Sam Neill, one of Australia’s most beloved actors, this reviewer remembers recommending his memoir Did I Ever Tell You This? (2023) back in June 2023.

As Text Publishing describes it, Neill wrote this “unexpected” memoir “in a creative burst of just a few months in 2022” . Worried that he might be dying soon, the actor decided to write for himself, about himself, as honestly as possible.

“Suddenly, for the first time in my life, I have time to burn, and time to think. And writing, jotting thoughts and memories down, is a salve. It gets my mind off things,” Neill wrote at the start of his 400-page monologue.

Even now, this reviewer can vividly recall the actor’s writing style. To put it simply: “It is clear that the man writes like he talks.” It is particularly amusing that Neill expressed his gratitude to Text Publishing for “all the punctuation”

Perhaps that is why this memoir is unique – it preserves the writer’s original and authen-

include yourself. Tom Holland gives one of his best performances as Odysseus’s son Telemachus, who matures from a reserved boy to an assertive young man, and John Leguizamo is achingly moving as Odysseus’s blind servant Eumaeus. In a rare venture into horror for Nolan (Scarecrow’s fear toxin in Batman Begins is the only other example I can think of), his Odyssey has a couple of terrifying sequences: Odysseus and his men must outwit a towering, macabre cyclops, and a scene with the witch Circe (Samantha Morton) injects some truly disquieting body horror.

Nolan’s Odyssey is full of stunning cinematography, thrilling stunts and an ethereal yet pounding score by Ludwig Göransson. You could say the pacing, while consistently engaging, is a little erratic and jumps too much time, but you’d be quibbling with Homer, not Nolan. The only notable flaws are indeed Nolan’s doing: the sound mixing sometimes makes the dialogue hard to discern (a common problem in his work), and Nolan has never been great at shooting action, with the fights tense and visceral but not especially well-framed.

A contemplative, entrancing all-star epic, The Odyssey is another triumph for auteur writer-director Christopher Nolan, and is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

tic voice, without trying to turn the man into something he was not and had no intention to be. There is neither polishing nor pretending, so what we see is what we get.

Re-reading this “lively, lovely book” (as described by Meryl Streep), Neill’s frequent use of “poor bastard(s)” as an endearing term still stands out.

Also prominent is his attention and devotion to details, his passion for life, and his wicked sense of humour.

Different from other memoirs by political, social and cultural celebrities, in Neill’s memoir there is not a bad word about anyone that he ever worked for, with and/or around. There is no attempt to analyse, criticise or judge anything. Only lived experiences are represented.And it takes a beautiful mind to see the extraordinary in the most “ordinary” aspects of life. Neill’s indepth observations of his surroundings – especially those random people, creatures and landscapes he came across – often read like poetry. To this reviewer, these personal reflections and insights shine brighter and truer than his stories about the world’s movie stars. Back in 2023 this reviewer wrote: “Neill’s writing is genuine and warm, full of joy and a sense of adventure… There is often a child-like innocence about him. Yet, many of his stories about family, friendship and film are graceful and tender, full of heartfelt emotions and empathy.”

Looking back, reading Did I Ever Tell You This? felt like reading The Little Prince (1943) by the French aviator Antoine de Saint-Exupery.

The Odyssey Starring Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway and Tom Holland M

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 Soup ingredient with ham (3)

3 Tenacious (10)

10 Resolute (7)

11 Stone fruit (7)

12 Too quiet to be heard (9)

13 Tranquil (4)

15 Think again (10)

17 Norway’s capital (4)

19 Casserole (4)

20 Benevolent (10)

23 Scrutinise (4)

25 Seasonal movement of animals (9)

27 Island in the North Atlantic (7)

28 Work (7)

29 Economic system (10)

30 Consume (3)

words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in 's'.

DOWN

1 Act of stealing other’s work (10)

2 Natural disaster (9)

4 Found (9)

5 Screen from sun (5)

6 Rigorous (6)

7 Shine (5)

8 Ballet skirt (4)

9 Cultivate plants (6)

14 Group of people with authority to rule (10)

16 Appalling (9)

18 Transmute (9)

21 Tour (6)

3

GRAND FAMILY LIVING WITH RESORTSTYLE

ENTERTAINING

GRAND FAMILY LIVING WITH RESORTSTYLE ENTERTAINING

PERFECTLY designed for families who value space, comfort and effortless entertaining, this exceptional residence offers an enviable lifestyle in one of Gembrook’s most desirable locations.

From the moment you step inside, you’ll be impressed by the generous proportions and thoughtfully designed floorplan. At the heart of the home is a stunning family kitchen featuring a large island bench, gas cooktop, twin wall ovens, walk-in pantry, dishwasher and an abundance of storage. Overlooking the spacious dining and living area, complete with a cosy gas log fireplace, this is a space designed to bring family and friends together. Large sliding doors extend the living outdoors to an expansive entertaining deck, creating the perfect setting for year-round gatherings while overlooking the beautiful backyard.

Multiple living zones ensure there’s room for everyone to relax. A formal lounge at the front of the home provides a peaceful retreat, while a separate family room, positioned alongside the children’s bedrooms, offers a great space for growing families.

Accommodation is equally impressive, with a spacious main bedroom featuring a walkin robe and private ensuite. Four additional bedrooms provide exceptional flexibility, including a guest bedroom with its own ensuite, ideal for extended family or visitors. A dedicated study completes the floorplan, offering the perfect work-from-home solution. Quality finishes throughout include beautiful timber flooring, plush carpets, ducted heating and refrigerated cooling, excellent storage and an abundance of natural light.

Outdoor entertaining is effortless yearround with an expansive covered deck overlooking the valley and backyard, the perfect place to relax while the kids and pets play. Downstairs, a versatile multipurpose room currently set up as a gym and games room adds even more flexibility, while the swim spa is sure to be a favourite during the warmer months.

Completing the package is side access, ample off-street parking, a large double garage with internal access and extensive under-house storage providing  exceptional practicality for tools, hobbies and recreational equipment.

Located just a few minutes’ walk from the thriving Gembrook township, this is a home that effortlessly combines style, functionality and lifestyle in the heart of Gembrook. ●

RELAXED LIVING IN A PRIME COCKATOO LOCATION

SET on 1,687sqm in Cockatoo, this inviting three-bedroom home delivers comfortable living with plenty of space, all just a short stroll from the township, local schools and public transport.

Stepping inside from the front verandah, you’re greeted by an open plan living, dining and kitchen area where floating floors flow throughout, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The well-appointed kitchen combines country-inspired charm with everyday practicality, featuring timber benchtops, a farmhouse sink, gas cooktop, dishwasher and excellent storage. Gas ducted heating throughout the home provides comfort during every season.

A versatile room adjoining the living area offers flexibility to suit your needs, whether you require a third bedroom, home office or an additional living space.

Upstairs, two generously sized bedrooms with built-in robes are serviced by a central family bathroom, while the laundry and separate toilet add further convenience.

Outside, the large backyard provides plenty of room for children, pets or future landscaping projects. A substantial powered storage shed is ideal for hobbies or extra storage, while ample off-street parking completes this appealing property.

Offering a fantastic combination of space, flexibility and an unbeatable location close to everyday amenities, this is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy relaxed Hills living with everything you need close at hand.

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

LIGHT, SPACE AND A SENSE OF BELONGING IN LILYDALE

HAMLET LIVING NOW SELLING

‘THE RAE’ FROM $845,000

About

Hamlet Living has launched a boutique over-50s community nestled beside Bellbird Park and Lillydale Lake. With just 50 thoughtfully designed homes, the welcoming Olinda Lodge clubhouse, and more than three hectares of open green space, it offers a way of living unlike anything else in the region.

That same thoughtful approach is reflected in every home. The new ‘Rae’ design balances openness with intimacy, creating spaces that are welcoming and social when you’re together, yet peaceful and private when you need time to yourself.

An open plan living space is at the heart of this home, connected to both front and rear gardens. A sheltered verandah and window seat welcomes you and creates connection to the street, whilst the backyard creates space for private retreat. With this dual orientation, the generous living space benefits from abundant natural light throughout the day.

In the private zone of the house, two well-appointed bedrooms sit discreetly alongside an adjoining main bathroom and separate powder room, with a neatlyintegrated study nook located at the transition to the living space.

Attributes

Street-fronted living to maximise outlook & connection Bright, dual-aspect living & dining area

Well-appointed kitchen & generous butler’s pantry

• Built-in window seat with integrated storage

• Dedicated built-in study nook

• Welcoming front verandah

• Clever bedroom arrangement with shared private ensuite & walk-in-robe or built-in robes

• Convenient powder room for guests

• Spacious laundry room with useful access from garage

• Generous & versatile outdoor space ideal for gardening, pets or entertaining (paved area illustrative only)

• Double glazing, R4.1 underfloor & R6 ceiling insulation throughout for comfort in every season

• Distinctive reverse gable roof design

• On certain lots the Rae can be customised to feature a 1.5 garage

Contact us

For more information or to book a sales consultation, visit hamletliving.com.au, or call Marion, our Sales Lead, on 0482 672 325. ●

SPACIOUS HILLS LIVING WITH A LARGE FLAT BACKYARD

82 Belgrave–Gembrook Road offers an impressive combination of space, flexibility and relaxed Hills living. Set on over ½ an acre, approx 2450m2, with a flat backyard, a substantial family home, separate fully decked out studio, large entertaining deck and double garage, this property is perfectly suited to growing families, multi-generational living or those seeking additional work from home space.

The main residence is arranged across two generous levels. Upstairs, three well proportioned bedrooms are accompanied by multiple living areas, including a spacious lounge warmed by a character brick fireplace and an additional sitting area overlooking the surrounding greenery.

Downstairs, the updated kitchen features excellent storage, quality appliances and ample bench space. It connects effortlessly with the open dining and family zone, while a separate rumpus room provides even more flexibility for children, entertaining or relaxed everyday living. A stylish central bathroom with twin vanities, separate toilet and dedicated laundry complete the layout.

Large windows invite natural light throughout, while sliding doors open onto the expansive rear deck. Offering plenty of room for outdoor dining and lounge settings, this impressive space enjoys a peaceful outlook across the substantial backyard.

Adding further appeal is the separate studio, complete with its own bedroom, ensuite and living area. Ideal for extended family, guests, older children or a private home office, it provides valuable independence while remaining close to the main residence.

A large double garage, additional shedding and expansive open lawn complete this versatile property. Conveniently located within easy reach of Belgrave township, schools, public transport and the natural beauty of the Dandenong Ranges, this is a rare opportunity to secure a spacious and adaptable Hills lifestyle. ●

CHARACTER CHARM, FLEXIBLE FAMILY LIVING

PERFECTLY positioned within walking distance to Belgrave Village and the train station, this beautifully updated and freshly painted character home delivers the ideal combination of timeless charm, modern comfort and outstanding flexibility. Set on a generous 1,163m² (approx. ¼ acre) allotment with established gardens and tranquil leafy surrounds, this is a property designed to adapt to the needs of growing families, multigenerational living or savvy investors.

Rich in Hills character, the home showcases beautiful original leadlight features while offering all the modern updates needed to simply move in and enjoy. Inside, you’ll discover a spacious and versatile floorplan comprising five bedrooms, two bathrooms, two separate living areas and a dedicated study. The home’s unique design provides two distinct living zones, each with its own split-system heating and cooling unit, private entrance, creating exceptional privacy for extended families, teenagers, guests or those working from home.

Adding even greater versatility, the property features separate metering, allowing independent contribution to household

running costs, making it an attractive option for multi-generational households or those looking to generate additional income. Investors will also appreciate the home’s strong appeal for both long-term rental accommodation and short-stay opportunities.

The dual-access allotment further enhances the property’s appeal, offering exciting possibilities for additional shedding, a workshop, studio or home business, along with future development potential (subject to council approval). There is ample off-street parking for three vehicles.

Surrounded by established gardens and enjoying peaceful native outlooks, the home offers a wonderful sense of privacy while remaining just moments from Belgrave’s vibrant cafes, shops, schools, public transport and the stunning walking trails of the Dandenong Ranges.

Whether you’re searching for a spacious family home, flexible living for multiple generations, or an investment with outstanding long-term potential, this unique Hills property presents an exceptional opportunity in one of Belgrave’s most soughtafter locations. ●

5

3

A PEACEFUL HILLS HIDEAWAY

PRIVATELY positioned on a no through road on a peaceful 3,478sqm (approx.) in Cockatoo, this inviting three-bedroom home offers a tranquil Hills lifestyle with comfortable living spaces and room to enjoy the natural surrounds.

An undercover front verandah welcomes you inside to the open plan kitchen and dining area, where floating floors create a warm and practical living space. The kitchen features a dishwasher, while a crackling wood fire and split system provide year-round comfort.

The family bathroom includes a relaxing spa bath and is complemented by the convenience of a separate powder room. The carpeted master bedroom is privately positioned at the rear of the home on the ground floor, creating a peaceful retreat. Upstairs, two additional bedrooms are serviced by a central lounge area, offering the perfect breakout space for children, teenagers or guests.

Outside, the expansive grounds provide plenty of space to enjoy the peaceful setting, with two garden sheds for additional storage and water tanks adding everyday practicality. Whether you’re looking for your first home, a weekend escape or a private lifestyle property, this charming residence offers space, privacy and the relaxed Hills lifestyle you’ve been searching for.

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

ALandmarkLifestyleEstateofGrandScale&Prestigeon11Acres!

Setacrossanexceptional11-acreestatewithcreekfrontage,thismagnificentAmericanRanchinspiredresidencedeliversluxury,privacy&outstandingfamilyliving.Behindgrandstone&wrought irongates,acirculardrivewaywindsthroughbeautifullylandscapedgardenstotheimpressive home.Inside,thegourmetgranitekitchenwithwalk-inpantryflowstoformal&informaldining,while atheatreroom,open-planlivingwithsoaringtimber-beamedceilings,stonefireplace,bar&wine cellarcreateanoutstandingentertainingenvironment.Upstairs,4oversizedbedroomsincludea luxuriousmainsuitewithwalk-inrobe&ensuite.Premiumfinishesincludepolishedhardwoodfloors, doubleglazing,hydronicheating,splitsystems&ductedvacuum.Outside,a25mx10mshedwith highbayaccess,barn,fencedpaddocks&damwithbridge&rotunda.

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AProvenHillsBNBinPrimeGembrookLocation! SetintheDandenongRangesjustoveranhourfromMelbourne’sCBD,theestablished&well-loved GembrookCottagespresentacharmingaccommodationbusinessopportunityintheheartof Gembrook.WithineasywalkingdistanceofPuffingBilly,Gembrook–EmeraldWalkingTrail,cafés, restaurants&thelocalbar,thelocationattractsvisitorsseekingarelaxingHillsescape.Theproperty comprisesthreebeautifullystyledcottages,eachfeaturingfour-posterbeds,leatherlounges, kitchenettes,Wi-Fi&woodheaters.BluebellCottageofferscalmingbluetones&aprivatedeckwith spa.HaremCottagefeaturesearthyinteriors&sunkenovalspaindoors,whileKookaburraCottage showcasessoftpastelhues&tranquilatmosphere.Withaloyalrepeatclientele&strongreputation, thebusinessenjoysconsistentdemand,supportedbynearbyparks,wildlife&walkingtrails.

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characterwithoutstandingequestrianfacilities.Awrap-aroundverandahwelcomesyoutoalightfilledopenplanlivingzonewithfloatingfloors,woodfire&abeautifullyupdatedcountrykitchen featuringnewcabinetry,anoversizedisland,900mmfreestandingstove&walk-inpantry.Theflexible floorplanoffersuptosixbedrooms,multiplelivingareas,studynooks&aluxuriousmainsuitewith balcony,ensuite&extensiverobes.Outside,horseloverswillappreciatefourfencedpaddocks,a 40mx20marena,tackroom,hayshed,floatshed,woodshed,chickencoop&establishedorchard. Extensivesheddingincludesa24mx12mpoweredhigh-bayshed&separatemachineryshed.

Clubs planning on moves

By Callum Ludwig

The murmurings of a potential merger between the Eastern Football Netball League (EFNL) and Outer East Football Netball League (OEFNL) have already prompted some clubs to change their plans.

While neither league is yet to comment on the plans, communication has been made to clubs that the two leagues have entered a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore a merger for the 2028 season.

Upwey-Tecoma has held off on making another bid to leave the OEFNL due to the plans, according to president Ian Snell.

“The starting point was at a president’s forum in May where they informed us that they were pursuing a merger with the EFNL and that there was a memorandum of understanding ready to be signed to outline how that process would happen,” he said.

“We decided that we would wait and let these conversations happen with the idea of moving in 2028 into the divisional structure in EFNL, but it also allows us to keep our Saturday netball, which is pretty important as well, so we’re hoping that it all comes to fruition.

“If it doesn’t by 2028, we will put in (an application) next year to move (to the EFNL) in 2028, as we still think that’s where we naturally sit.”

Upwey-Tecoma were denied a move for the 2026 season by AFL Victoria, despite 121 of 138 of the Tigers’ club members voting in favour of the club seeking a move to the EFNL.

The OEFN released a statement regarding AFL Victoria’s decision at the time, which said the league welcomed the decision that Upwey-Tecoma’s senior and junior clubs would remain members of the Outer East Football Netball competition in 2026 and that they held the ‘firm view that both were required clubs of the Outer East Football Netball Community’ . Snell said the club feels as though it exists in the heartland of the EFNL.

“There’s about 10 EFNL clients within 10 ‘K’s, there’s three Outer East and we share a similar

pool for juniors,” he said.

“The different age groups for juniors make it difficult for us in that some of the players want to play in the EFNL at something like they’re under 19.5s, while we’ve got under 18s.

“We’ve got a major problem with the age group variations in the juniors and this year we’ve got our under 14s playing in EFNL because last year they dominated their competition, so they’ve gone down there into the grading, and they’re getting some really good competitive football which is helping them as players develop.”

In terms of truly local clubs in the Hills, UpweyTecoma competes against Olinda-Ferny Creek, Monbulk and, at a stretch, Gembrook-Cockatoo in the OEFN Premier Division while Belgrave and Emerald also reside in Division One.

Over in the EFNL, clubs close by to the Tigers would include South Belgrave (Premier Division), Bayswater, Boronia, Wantirna South (Division One), Scoresby (Division Two), Ferntree Gully, The Basin, Upper Ferntree Gully, Silvan, Knox (Division Three) and Fairpark (Division Four).

Snell said he thinks Upwey-Tecoma competing

against these clubs would be good for footy in the local area.

“There’s some problems; we’ll have some trouble with divisional footy in the Outer East, those across the Warburton Highway could be, but that’s part of what they’ve got to work out how to make happen and there is no real clear indication of how it will work,” he said.

“We’ve basically made it clear that we as a club would like to be in divisional footy in the EFNL in 2028 and we would love a number of other Outer Eastern clubs which reside close to the EFNL to join us in that.

“Not necessarily in the same grade, some will beaboveus,somewillbebelowusbutthat’swhere we think it naturally fits.”

Officer, which currently competes in the Outer East Premier Division, has also already announced it intends to take the now well-trodden path from the OEFNL to the Southern Football Netball League (SFNL) Club president Laurie Hughes told Star News’ Justin Schwarze that geographically it’s a better fit for the club than playing a lower division in Eastern.

“We’ve got two options, Eastern or Southern, and we think Southern is a better fit,” he said.

“We have old, traditional rivals in the first division and second division (of Southern).

“We’d be worried about player retention that way, now we won’t have to travel too far.”

The Kangaroos already have an under-19s and second senior women’s team competing in SFNL competitions this season and would follow Narre Warren, Berwick Springs, Hallam, Cranbourne and the Doveton Doves in making the same move in recent years.

“Southern has been open and honest that they’d love us to join up,” Hughes said.

“Hopefully that’ll be our future, hopefully we can bed down and stay somewhere and be successful, we think Southern is the league for us to do that in.

“We just don’t think our footy club will be part of Eastern in the future.”

Upwey-Tecoma will remain in the Outer East competitions in 2027, hopeful of the EFNL merger proceeding in 2028. (Armin Richter)

SPORT

Successful day for Rangers

On Saturday, Monbulk Rangers FV Men’s Seniors and Reserves hosted Morwell-based club Fortuna ‘60 in an important title race clash.

It was a nice sunny day, with Monbulk looking to complete the double after their impressive 5-3 win earlier in the season, while Fortuna were aiming to close the gap on the Rangers on the ladder.

The Reserves were up first and ran rampant.

A great team goal, finished off by Oscar Lyons, opened the scoring before two long-range strikes from Dylan Davis and Liam Maunder capped off an impressive first half.

The second half was even better, with the Reserves running out dominant 9-0 winners.

Second-half goals came from Aiden Bede (brace), Matt Foti, Moj Yaqobi, Jimmy Hulbert and Jay Robb-Wardlaw to complete a statement win and a superb attacking display.

The Seniors’ match followed, with plenty on the line as the two sides sat close together on the ladder.

Monbulk were looking to bounce back from a recent rough patch of form.

The game started at a fast pace and was a scrappy affair, with cards shown to both teams early. Both sides created a couple of chances, but neither goalkeeper was seriously tested.

However, Monbulk were able to break the deadlock.

A set piece was headed back across goal by Kane Angulo, where striker Steve McRae was there to nod home from close range.

Rangers had opportunities to extend their lead but couldn’t capitalise.

They never fully took control of the contest, and it cost them just before half-time when a Fortuna winger got beyond the backline and finished well to level the scores at 1-1 with the final play of the half.

Disappointed with the first half, Monbulk

came out after the break with renewed purpose.

They looked to regain the lead but struggled to break down a resilient Fortuna defence and create clear-cut chances.

The Rangers’ challenge became even tougher in the 70th minute when one of their defenders was sent off, leaving the home side with 10 men.

Despite being a player down, Monbulk continued to attack, and when Jack Higgins whipped a trademark free kick into the box, Rick Dall’Oglio rose above the Fortuna defenders to

power home a header and restore the Rangers’ lead.

That goal lifted the intensity of the contest even further, and after a fiery exchange, Fortuna had two players sent off, reducing them to nine men.

The extra space opened up the game, and Monbulk took advantage. Forward Brayden Jones found room down the right wing before cutting the ball back to Ollie Grujic, who took one touch before slotting the ball into the corner to

make it 3-1.

That proved to be the final score in what was a hard-earned victory for the Rangers, lifting them into third place on the ladder.

It was a successful day for both the Seniors and Reserves, with six valuable points staying at Monbulk.

Next week, the Rangers travel away to face Sandown Lions, who have won four of their past five matches and will be looking to continue their impressive run of form.

Around the region’s football ovals and netball courts

By Armin Richter

Football

Division 1

• Seniors: Yarra Glen 37.14.236 def Powelltown

4.5.29; Alexandra 33.24.222 def Yarra Junction

3.2.20; Pakenham 18.12.120 def Yea 2.0.12; Seville 16.13.109 def Belgrave 5.8.38; Emerald bye

• Reserves: Yarra Glen 15.15.105 def Powelltown 0.7.7; Alexandra 23.15.153 def Yarra Junction 2.3.15; Pakenham 25.14.164 def Yea 1.1.7; Belgrave 11.14.81 def Seville 3.13.31; Emerald bye

• Women (Div 1): Warburton-Wesburn 4.5.29 def Upwey-Tecoma 4.3.27; Mt. Evelyn 6.8.44 def Healesville 0.2.2; Olinda-Ferny Creek

4.10.34 def Pakenham 4.6.30; Belgrave bye

• Women (Div 2): Yea 10.14.74 def Woori Yallock 0.0.0; Seville 6.2.38 def Wandin 3.3.21; Gembrook-Cockatoo 5.5.35 def Thornton-Ei-

ldon 0.0.0; Officer 5.15.45 def Emerald 3.3.21

Netball

Division 1

• A Grade: Yarra Glen 68 def Powelltown 39; Alexandra 56 drew Yarra Junction 56; Pakenham 76 def Yea 16; Seville 79 def Belgrave 23; Emerald bye

• B Grade: Yarra Glen 68 def Powelltown 28; Yarra Junction 74 def Alexandra 31; Pakenham 72 def Yea 37; Seville 82 def Belgrave 16; Emerald bye

• C Grade: Yarra Glen 64 def Powelltown 22; Yarra Junction 36 def Alexandra 34; Pakenham 54 def Yea 28; Seville 60 def Belgrave 25; Emerald bye

• D Grade: Yarra Glen 32 def Powelltown 14; Pakenham 65 def Yea 16; Seville 48 def Belgrave 15; Emerald and Yarra Junction bye

• Under 17: Seville Blue 50 def Pakenham Blue 4; Alexandra 51 def Yarra Junction 11; Emerald, Pakenham Gold and Seville White bye

Belgrave take a well judged mark in their Reserves clash with Seville. (Armin Richter)

Belgrave get a fingertip touch to defend against Seville in A Grade. (Armin Richter)

Seville get a clearing kick out of a pack against Belgrave in the Seniors.

Monbulk reserves press Fortuna. (Supplied)

Ferntree Gully Tennis Club hosts fantastic winter classic

The Ferntree Gully Tennis Club welcomed over 20 players from across Melbourne for its 2026 Open Winter Classic, with a fantastic 2 days of competitive tennis played.

The verified UTR tournament saw matches begin early each day, with all games contested on the club’s clay courts.

Players competed in two divisions based on their Universal Tennis Rating (UTR): UTR 1–3 and UTR 3–6, ensuring closely matched and enjoyable competition for all participants.

Each match was played as the best of three sets, with a 10-point match tiebreak deciding the third set when required.

Players were also given a five-minute warm-up before each match, helping them prepare for some high-quality tennis throughout the tournament.

Congratulations to all competitors, with Josh Kimberley crowned champion of the UTR 1–3 division after a strong performance.

Well done to Martim Viegas who finished as runner-up.

In the UTR 3–6 division, Jaydon Yap claimed the title, while Tye Hunt was runnerup after an excellent tournament. Congratulations to all players on their efforts.

The club thanks Head Coach Mark Brodam from Prestige Tennis Academy for organising and running another outstanding tournament.

His hard work ensured the event ran smoothly and provided players with a professionally managed and enjoyable competitive experience.

Ferntree Gully Tennis Club looks forward to welcoming players back for future UTR events as the club continues to promote quality competition and opportunities for players of all standards.

Hills clubs have mixed luck

By Armin Richter

With Premier Division of the Outer East having a bye week, all eyes were on the Division 1 fixtures.

On the football grounds the top four senior clubs were drawn to play the bottom 4 in ideal sunny conditions while fifth placed Emerald had the bye.

The most interesting encounter was at Seville where the home side was looking to bounce back from a narrow loss to the unbeaten Pakenham the previous week.

The Blues grabbed control of the match early and eventually recorded a 71 point win to remain the main challengers to the Lions.

The Magpies fared better in the Reserves where they defeated Seville by 50 points and jumped their vanquished opponents into

third spot.

The Women’s football now only have two rounds to play before finals as the teams are fighting for places.

Warburton-Wesburn, last year’s Division Two premiers, look to be Mt. Evelyn’s main danger in Division 1 and are just a game behind the Rovers after a narrow win over Upwey-Tecoma on the weekend.

The undefeated Yea team lead Division 2 but will likely face a stiff challenge from the much improved Seville who sit in second place.

The netball is dominated by Seville and Pakenham in this division with both sides well clear on top of all ladders from A Grade to Under 17s.

Seville recorded a big win over Belgrave to keep their noses in front of Pakenham in A Grade.

Belgrave take a well judged mark in their Reserves clash with Seville. (Armin Richter)

Seville on the attack against Belgrave in A Grade. (Armin Richter)

Josh Kimberley after winning the UTR 1-3 division at the 2026 Ferntree Gully Open Winter Classic.

Jaydon Yap after winning the UTR 3-6 division at the 2026 Ferntree Gully Open Winter Classic.

Tye Hunt after finishing runner-up in the UTR 3-6 division at the 2026 Ferntree Gully Open Winter Classic. (Supplied)

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ROUND

1. What emoji do you use the most?

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

Survival knife, water filtration straw, flint rod to start a fire

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

Brazil, Sao Paulo ( a real cultural experience)

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

Ford XF 1985, no I didn’t have a name for it

5. Where would you like to retire?

Somewhere along the Murray

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

Chicken hearts, no I didn’t like them

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

The ability to see the future, tattslotto numbers

8. What movie title matches your job role?

The Mechanic

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

Leonardo da Vinci - What an incredible mind he had, fascinating

10. What is the craziest thing you believed as a child? That money grew on trees

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

Do you think your life is better than mine. We always say that when I come back in our next life I want to come back as a dog (especially our dogs)