By Gabriella Vukman
The Yarra Valley wine industry is restructuring its operations and tourism strategies as broader economic pressures, seasonal disruptions, and shifting consumer demand reshape Australia’s wine sector.
Nationally, the 2026 winegrape crush dropped to a 25-year low of 1.27 million tonnes, according to Wine Australia’s National Vintage Report. In the Yarra Valley, the reduced harvest was compounded by late frost damaging local crops.
By Oliver Winn and Gabriella Vukman
Yarra Valley teachers and staff walked off the job on Thursday July 23 marking the state’s second major stop-work action this year.
The statewide strike followed a narrow vote on July 21 in which 51 per cent of Australian Education Union (AEU) members rejected the Allan Labor Government’s offer of a 28.3 per cent pay rise over four years.
The union is demanding a 35 per cent wage increase over four years, alongside structural measures to combat chronic teacher shortages, excessive class sizes, and uncompensated overtime.
“It is about the long-term sustainability of the Victorian education system, not just this current agreement, and certainly not just about more money,” Upper Yarra Secondary College assistant princicpal Michael Schultz said.
Deputy Premier Ben Carroll said the government would continue working with the union. But, the AEU has not ruled out further strike action if key demands remain unaddressed.
Read more on page 3
The financial strain from smaller yields has hit peak regional body Wine Yarra Valley, which relies on membership fees tied to grape crush volume and overall performance.
Facing reduced revenue, the organisation has overhauled its operational structure and eliminated its full-time chief executive officer position for the first time in 20 years.
Regional operations manager Nicole Esdaile stated that board members will take a more hands-on role to direct remaining funds toward active industry initiatives.
Despite nationwide oversupply issues, local
industry leaders emphasise that the Yarra Valley remains partially insulated due to its focus on luxury, boutique production rather than highvolume fast-moving consumer wines.
However, corporate restructuring within major industry players is still impacting the region.
Endeavour Group, Australia’s largest retail liquor and hospitality business, has put the historic Oakridge winery up for sale and parted ways with chief winemaker David Bicknell after more than two decades.
In response to tightening retail markets, regional operators are shifting focus toward direct-
to-consumer and boutique tourism experiences.
Tourism East chief executive officer Louise Scott said smaller, independent winemakers are well-positioned to capitalise on growing consumer preference for personalised cellar door tastings, events, and collaborative food offerings.
Local bodies are now prioritising destination marketing that integrates wineries with regional accommodation, dining, and cultural attractions to ensure long-term stability across the Yarra Valley’s visitor economy.
Read more on page 2
By Gabriella Vukman
The Yarra Valley wine industry is navigating a period of change as broader pressures across Australia’s wine sector affect grape production, business structures and visitor experiences.
Australia’s 2026 winegrape crush has fallen to its lowest level in over 25 years, with the national harvest estimated at 1.27 million tonnes.
The decline reflects a combination of seasonal conditions and a broader adjustment by producers responding to changing market demand.
Wine Australia’s National Vintage Report 2026 identified a continuing reduction in grape production, with several consecutive vintages below the long-term average as wineries adjust their requirements in response to market conditions.
The impact of these changes is being felt across wine regions, including the Yarra Valley, where wineries and tourism operators are adapting to shifting conditions.
Regional Operations Manager at Wine Yarra Valley, Nicole Esdaile, said the reduced vintage can be partially attributed to frost.
“We had a very late frost, and people lost a lot of fruit there,” she said.
Wine Yarra Valley is a member-based organisation that represents approximately 80 per cent of the local wine industry, including winemakers, grape growers and wine producers who don’t have vineyards or growth areas.
With its membership fees closely related to the size of the grape crush and overall performance of the industry, Wine Yarra Valley has seen a reduction in revenue.
Now forced to remodel its structure, the industry body has cut its full-time Chief Executive Officer role for the first time in 20 years.
“There are actually two industries existing in one; there is a fast-moving consumer industry and a luxury industry, and we are the luxury kind here in the Yarra Valley.”
“The industry is having a tough time, so the money is better directed to activities, rather than funding a senior manager role,” Ms Esdaile said.
“Our committee members and board will be much more hands-on.”
While noting the reduced vintage and industry shift will affect wineries of the Yarra Valley, Ms Esdaile said the local industry sits somewhat apart from the broader sector.
“The wine industry is an interesting bag, with all of the numbers for the whole industry getting piled together,” she said.
According to Ms Esdaile, with smaller production and higher price points, the Yarra Valley’s wine production is less impacted by the situation of oversupply.
“In the longer term, the industry will be better off because the supply won’t be more than the demand.”
The sector’s challenges have coincided with changes at some established Yarra Valley wineries.
Oakridge chief winemaker David Bicknell departed the Coldstream winery after more than two decades, following changes within owner Endeavour Group’s wine operations.
Mr Bicknell’s departure occurred as Endeavour Group, Australia’s largest retail liquor and hospitality business, reviewed its wine assets, including plans to reduce the number of wineries within its portfolio.
Listed for sale, Oakridge, which was established in 1979, remains one of the Yarra Valley’s recognised wine brands and has been a significant contributor to the region’s reputation.
Ms Esdaile said the layoff of Oakridge’s senior winemaker was unfortunate.
“It is sad to see one of the region’s large, prominent and very successful brands being devalued by the retailer,” she said.
“Manypeoplearesayingitwouldbegreattosee Oakridge go back to being a family-owned winery.”
Ms Esdaile said Endeavour Group’s focus on cutting back as a retail business reflects the status of the broader economy.
“There is the opportunity that Oakridge will be purchased by a smaller winemaker, which would be great for the region.”
“It is very challenging in the wine industry right now with reduced consumption and the economic situation, which means people aren’t purchasing premium wine as much.”
“We are a close community here in the Yarra Valley, and we don’t like to see people lose their jobs.”
Ms Esdaile said she hopes locals and visitors alike continue to appreciate the Yarra Valley and its local wine industry.
“It is a beautiful region, and it would be sad to see no vineyards here,” she said.
“For the moment we have to hope that people keep drinking local wine, visiting local wineries, and telling their friends about why the Yarra Valley is so good.”
Tourism East CEO Louise Scott said the region’s focus on premium experiences and quality production will remain important as the industry changes.
“The Yarra Valley has always been defined by quality rather than volume, and that continues to position the region well,” Ms Scott said.
“While the broader wine industry is experiencing significant change, visitors come here for much more than a bottle of wine,” she said.
“They come to meet passionate producers, enjoy exceptional food, experience beautiful landscapes and connect with the stories behind our vineyards.”
Ms Scott said established wineries continued to play an important role in attracting visitors to the region, while newer producers were also contributing to the destination’s evolution.
“People are increasingly travelling for authentic experiences, and the stories behind our winer-
ies are a significant part of what makes the region special,” she said.
“Iconic wineries have helped establish the Yarra Valley’s international reputation over many decades.”
“Their history, innovation and commitment to quality have created a strong foundation for the region’s visitor economy.”
Ms Scott said changing market conditions could also provide opportunities for smaller producers and emerging winemakers.
“Change often creates opportunities for innovation.“
“Visitors are increasingly seeking authentic, boutique and personalised experiences,” she said.
“Smaller producers are often well placed to offer intimate tastings, direct connections with winemakers and unique cellar door experiences that resonate with today’s travellers.”
As wineries respond to changing consumer behaviour, some businesses are expanding beyond traditional cellar door offerings through food experiences, events, collaborations and other visitor activities.
Ms Scott said cooperation between tourism and hospitality businesses would be important in maintaining the region’s appeal.
“Visitors don’t think in terms of individual businesses. They think about the overall destination experience,” she said.
“That means wineries, restaurants, accommodation providers, attractions, tour operators and local producers all benefit when they work together to create seamless visitor journeys.”
Tourism East is supporting destination marketing and industry collaboration to connect wine with other regional experiences, including food, accommodation, nature-based activities, and arts and culture.
“Our focus is on positioning the region as a complete destination rather than promoting individual experiences in isolation,” Ms Scott said.
“By continuing to work together, we can ensure the region remains one of Australia’s most compelling destinations for both domestic and international visitors.”
The coming years are expected to see continued adjustment across the wine sector as producers respond to market conditions.
For the Yarra Valley, the focus will be on how established businesses, emerging operators and tourism partners adapt to the changing environment.
Over 200 arrests as Operation Pulse wraps up
An alleged drug trafficker, two young males carrying hunting knives and a pair of thieves stealing from a department store were among 200 people arrested at shopping centres as part of a boosted safety effort during the winter school holidays.
Operation Pulse involves police and Protective Services Officers (PSOs) patrolling Melbourne and Geelong’s major shopping centres, including Eastland, in an effort to prevent crime, detect any offences and improve safety.
Patrols were boosted over the busy school holiday period, seeing all nine centres covered daily. Throughout the school holidays, 209 people were arrested with about 400 charges laid. Majority of the charges related to thefts from retail outlets.
With school holidays all wrapped up, Operation Pulse will continue with four of the nine shopping centres receiving daily patrols.
Plans are underway to ensure the expanded approach to all nine centres will occur during the next school holidays and high demand periods. All shifts are voluntary, meaning there is no impact on the rail networks or frontline policing as officers are working at shopping centres in addition to existing shifts.
Key Operation Pulse statistics since 8 December:
• 1620 arrests.
• 3303 charges laid, with shop theft (1634) and drug offences (272) most common.
• 285 drug seizures.
• 243 weapons seized.
• 663 cautions issued.
• 558 fines issued.
• 24,734 vehicles checked.
Stay warm with MRAG during power outage
The Millgrove Residents Action Group will offer a warm space, access to power and some food during an upcoming power outage.
The Millwarra Community Building is located at the rear of 20 Cavanagh Road, Millgrove. It will be open from 9am-4pm during the planned power outage on Wednesday 29 July.
Bring your own basket of toys/activities for your children. Coffee, tea and toasties will be provided by MRAG.
Check your bike is bus compatible
The Martyrs Bus Service is asking bike riders who travel on its buses to check if their bike is compatible for travel.
The bus company’s bike rack can only carry bikes that fit the rack, and people whose bikes do not fit will not be able to travel.
“Unfortunately, bike racks will not be made any larger, and the current bike racks can only hold bikes that fit safely and securely,” Martyrs said in a social media post.
“Please do not expect your bike to be carried if it does not fit into the bike rack.”
Please make sure you understand the dimensions of the bike racks and that you are aware of the size of your own bike before you try to use the bike rack service.
Only two-wheel single-seat bikes with a wheel size between 50cm (20”) and 73cm (29”), and up to a 111cm (44”) wheelbase can be loaded.
Bikes must weigh less than 25 kilograms.
Victorian motorists are running out of time to claim a 20 per cent discount on their vehicle registration, with applications set to close at midnight on Friday 31 July.
The state government’s cost-of-living relief measure has seen massive uptake across Victoria, clocking more than 3.5 million applications to date, representing roughly half the state’s population.
Under the scheme, drivers can claim a rebate on up to two light personal vehicles registered between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026. The discount applies equally to motorists who paid their registration as a lump sum or through quarterly instalments.
For eligible households, the savings are immediate:
• Single-vehicle drivers can claim up to $186 back.
• Two-vehicle households can receive up to $372.
rians,“ Ms Stitt said. “If you haven’t already applied, it only takes a few minutes to get it done and make sure you don’t miss out.“
The push to finalise claims comes as families across the state continue to manage tight household budgets. Minister for Cost of Living Paul Edbrooke emphasised that the program is designed to deliver immediate, practical financial relief.
Minister for Roads and Road Safety Ros Spence echoed those sentiments, noting the timely nature of the rebate.
Minister for Government Services Ingrid Stitt urged any eligible drivers who haven’t yet lodged an application to act quickly before the end-of-month deadline.
“This is real help now, putting money back in the pockets of more than 3.5 million Victo-
“This is real money back in Victorians’ pockets – where, right now, every dollar makes a difference,“ she said.
Eligible vehicle owners have until midnight on Friday, 31 July 2026, to submit a claim. Applications can be completed online in a few minutes by downloading the Service Victoria app or visiting service.vic.gov.au/rego-rebate.
By Gabriella Vukman
Teachers from Healesville High School were among the thousands of Victorian public school teachers, principals and education support staff who walked off the job on Thursday 23 July.
Healesville High School teacher Danny Zemp joined in on Thursday’s strike and said he voted against the agreement because he believed teachers deserve a better deal.
“It felt like the government could offer us more,” Mr Zemp said, adding that the hasty deadline placed on negotiations made him feel “obligated to vote in the negative.”
Members of the Australian Education Union (AEU) voted narrowly against the revised agreement, with just over 51 per cent rejecting the offer and almost 49 per cent voting in favour.
The proposal included a 28.3 per cent pay rise over four years, but many educators argued the increase would not adequately address workload pressures or help retain teachers in the profes-
sion.
While backing the industrial action, Mr Zemp said striking was not something teachers enjoyed.
“I don’t like striking at the best of times,” he said.
“I feel strongly for the children at the school. They’re missing out on their days of learning.
“But if we sit down on our hands and don’t do anything at all, then nothing’s going to happen.”
Mr Zemp said he would prefer to see a shorter agreement rather than one spread over four years.
He also rejected suggestions that teachers’ school holidays reflected a lighter workload, saying the demands of the profession extended well beyond classroom hours.
“I’d like to challenge anyone to come in and do a mental marathon of about 10 to 12 weeks,” he said.
“It’s not just leaving work at the end of the day. You’re working that whole eight to 10 weeks full on, and then you need a couple of weeks where
you can relax your brain. Otherwise you burn out.”
Healesville High School teacher and AEU subbranch representative Joanna Yates said teachers are generally remaining open to discussing different ways of structuring the profession.
As a teacher, Ms Yates is most concerned about teachers working excessively beyond their paid hours.
“Most teachers already work nine to three or nine to four, and then go home and work on the weekend and during the holidays,” she said.
“We do all of this extra work unpaid, just to keep up with the curriculum that we need to teach.”
As the school’s union representative, Ms Yates said discussions with colleagues throughout the dispute had reinforced two key priorities.
“I’d like to see a 28 per cent pay rise over three years,” Ms Yates said.
Protecting the state’s public school funding model through legislation is another priority for
Ms Yates.
“Right now they’re not funding schools the way they’re meant to,” she said.
“Other states have their school funding protected under law, so their governments can’t back away from that.”
Although Ms Yates said smaller schools like Healesville High are better placed to manage staffing pressures, she acknowledged larger metropolitan schools faced greater challenges.
“We’re lucky we’re in a small school with flexible people who help when needed,” she said.
“But we’re aware that high class sizes are difficult for many schools in the suburbs.”
Ms Yates said the revised offer failed to provide what she considered a genuine pay rise.
“Over four years, the money is not good enough to keep teachers staying in the profession,” she said.
A spokesperson for the Department of Education told Star Mail last week that the department was working to limit disruption to families.
By Oliver Winn
Several Upper Yarra schools travelled into Melbourne to take part in a statewide strike on Thursday 23 July, the second major stop-work action of the year.
It came after the Australian Education Union (AEU) rejected the State Government’s 28 per cent pay increase offer on Tuesday 21 July.
Fifty-two staff from Upper Yarra Secondary College were at the protest in Melbourne, and assistant principal Michael Schultz said the strike called for actionable measures to address educators’ workloads
“It is about the long-term sustainability of the Victorian education system, not just this current agreement, and certainly not just about more money.
“Teacher shortages will continue to be a problem unless teaching becomes a respected and attractive profession again,” Mr Schultz said.
Woori Yallock Primary School, Millwarra Primary School, Wandin Yallock Primary School and Wandin North Primary School were also confirmed to have walked off the job on Thursday.
Woori Yallock Primary School said in a social media post that striking wasn’t something the school “took lightly”
“We know days like this can be disruptive, and we genuinely appreciate the support and patience from our parent community.
“But this isn’t just about us. It’s about creating the time, resources, and support our students deserve every single day. We love what we do, and we’re proud to stand up for a better future for the kids in our care.”
In March, teachers in Victoria went on strike for the first time in 13 years after nine months of negotiations between the government and the AEU’s Victorian Branch reached boiling point.
Victorian school teachers demanded a 35
per cent pay increase over four years to bring salaries in line with inflation, and measures to address workload, reduce class sizes and increase support staff.
In response, the government offered a 28 per cent pay offer. This offer was then rejected by the union in a narrow vote on Tuesday, 21 July, leading to the latest strike.
AEU Victorian Branch president Justin Mullaly said the underfunding of Victoria’s education system was making the work of public school staff untenable.
“Public school teachers, principals and education support staff are overworked and undervalued, working an average of 12 hours unpaid overtime every week to make up for the Allan Labor Government’s funding shortfall,” Mr Mullaly said.
As reported in the ABC, Deputy Premier
and Minister for Education Ben Carroll said he was working closely with the AEU to find a resolution.
“Families are already juggling a lot, and today’s disruption is disappointing,” he said.
“This deal would have made Victorian teachers and education support staff the best paid in the country together with the best conditions.
“This was a close vote, and we will continue to work with the AEU to resolve this matter.”
Teacher salaries in Victoria are among the lowest in Australia, earning around $10,000 to $15,000 less per year when compared to other states.
Victorian entry-level teachers were paid around $79,600 in 2025, while in New South Wales a fresh teacher gets a starting salary just
under $90,200.
A problem Australia-wide is teacher burnout, with a 2025 University of New South Wales survey revealing that full-time teachers work 49 hours a week on average.
The union hasn’t ruled out further strike actions if their demands are not met.
Mr Schultz said the purpose of the strike was to secure improvements to Upper Yarra students’ education experience.
“We understand this is a disruption to families, and it is an act of last resort. Unfortunately, it has been the only way to have the Department of Education engage meaningfully with the AEU after months of negotiations.”
“Each offer from the Department of Education has come about as a result of the potential for strike action. It appears to be the only for the government to take us seriously,” he said.
By Gabriella Vukman
The experiences of injured Victorians who gave evidence to the parliamentary inquiry into the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) on 9 and 10 June are now publicly available, revealing a series of concerns about how the scheme is operating.
The newly released transcripts include testimony from claimants including residents from the Yarra Ranges, who described lengthy battles over treatment approvals, difficulties accessing medical professionals and the emotional toll of navigating the system while recovering from serious injuries.
Among those calling for change is Millie Parker OAM, who said her experience with TAC had changed her view of an organisation she once strongly supported through her advocacy work.
Parker said she became concerned after an official medical report contained information she believed was inaccurate, including a statement suggesting she was returning to work.
She said she challenged the information because medical records could have significant consequences for future decisions about treatment and support.
“I had been on work cover for ten years due to PTSD,” she said.
“If WorkCover got a hold of that report, that could have been catastrophic for me.”
“It could have suspended my medical treatments or medication.”
Along with establishing that she would be returning to work, other false information in Ms Parker’s TAC medical files allegedly included a statement stipulating that her migraines began before her accident.
“One of my medical referrals that the TAC sent back to me through a Freedom of Information Request said I had pre-existing migraines for 18 years before I fractured my skull in the accident, which would have made me a toddler at three,” she said.
“It just wasn’t true.”
Upon making the complaint to have her medical records changed, Ms Parker said she objected after being characterised as “agitated” for raising concerns about the report.
“They introduced me to a rehabilitation provider as very agitated and in pain,” she said.
“In 34 years as a client I had never made a complaint.”
“I wasn’t agitated, and I am not an agitated person. I was trying to get false content in the medical report changed.”
Ms Parker was also concerned to find a box ticked in her client file classifying her as a ‘sensitive client.’
“In the hearing the TAC senior staff flat out denied that that classification exists.”
“Why would that classification be there if it didn’t mean I would receive different treatment to someone without it?,” she said.
“They publicly called me a liar.”
According to the transcript on the TAC website in response to MP David Limbrick’s statement “Just to be clear then, you are saying that there is no classification that would prioritise or otherwise change the way that clients are managed based on some sort of classification,” CEO of TAC Tracey Slater said “We do not have any classification like that.”
Ms Slater said, “With that said, of course as part of a new client being onboarded to the TAC we will go through a process of having them identify their specific needs or complex rehabilitation needs, so in that assessment of whether someone will benefit from a certain type of case management to support their best outcome we will definitely capture their own feedback about their needs.”
“But no, there is no other classification of ‘sensitive’,” she said.
Ms Parker said she was troubled that the focus became her reaction to the report rather than whether the information itself was accurate.
“Why shouldn’t they want an official medical report that contained false content changed?”
“I had to make an official complaint to change the reports,” she said.
“My doctors and psychiatrist said I needed to get it changed.”
Ms Parker said she did not believe the clinicians involved acted maliciously, but questioned whether reporting templates used within the TAC system could create pressure for inaccurate statements to be recorded.
“Now that the hearing has happened, there needs to be an audit of all the templates,” she said.
“My clinicians say unfortunately the template is written in a way that means they have to write
things like saying I am returning to work.”
Ms Parker said she was concerned about the long-term consequences if incorrect information was later relied upon by agencies making decisions about a person’s care.
“It was incredibly dangerous to have that on my file.”
On top of false health records held by the TAC, last year Ms Parker sought Ombudsman intervention to get critical care in the form of a ketamine infusion for her nerve pain.
“I was in so much pain that I was grinding my jaw because I don’t have any other pain relief.”
“I ended up fracturing a molar, and they had to remove it,” she said.
“They delayed the decision of whether or not I should get pain relief for four months.”
Five grand later, now with a false tooth and titanium screw drilled into her jaw, Ms Parker said she thinks the delay in her treatment was a part of a cost-cutting measure.
According to the state’s 2026-27 budget papers, the government will receive a $1.1 billion payment from the TAC in the next financial year on top of other quantities paid out by the TAC over previous years.
“In the last three years the government has taken $3 billion out of the TAC,” she said.
“If you are taking that much money out, there is a flow-on effect operationally within the organisation.”
“If you are taking that much money out, how can it not affect clients on the ground?”
Ms Parker said she received her pain relief almost immediately after contacting the ombudsman.
“The ombudsman saw my case was serious so within a week of getting my complaint, they rang up TAC and the next day TAC approved all outstanding requests that I’d been waiting four months for in pain,” she said.
Ms Parker’s experience reflected broader concerns among injured people that the scheme had become focused on conflict rather than support.
“There is this whole culture of adversarialism like they will fight you for everything,” she said.
“It is an endurance test.”
“They’re going to win every time.”
Ms Parker said she believed the scheme needed a cultural shift back towards genuinely involving injured people in decisions affecting their lives.
Having received an Order of Australia Medal for her advocacy work for disability access, Ms Parker said she struggled to reconcile her past support for TAC with her current experiences.
“The TAC that’s on my Order of Australia medal deserves to be there.”
“This one that exists today does not.”
Healesville resident Tamara Tesseyman was among TAC claimants who submitted to the inquiry.
Ms Tesseyman said she had also experienced lengthy battles over treatment and support following a crash that left both her and her young son with significant injuries.
While her family’s crash and recovery have previously been reported, she said her ongoing experience highlighted broader concerns about treatment approvals and access to services.
Tamara said injured people were often left having to advocate repeatedly for care recommended by their treating professionals.
“We have contacted surgeons for my son, but they have told us they won’t deal with the TAC,” she told Star Mail.
“I know people who have had to buy their own wheelchairs,” she said.
“They started rejecting my treatments at around the three-year mark.”
Ms Tesseyman said delays and disputes over approvals could have serious consequences, particularly for people managing complex injuries and psychological trauma.
She also raised concerns about the effect TAC processes were having on access to medical professionals.
“The TAC requires clinicians to go through regular assessments with the client, far more than what is necessary,” she said
“The clinicians are also not guaranteed to get paid properly, as the TAC pays significantly less than the market rate.”
“If a physiotherapist has a choice between a patient who is going to pay privately, or through the TAC, they will choose the first option every time.”
While the TAC maintains 95.8 per cent of treatment requests are approved, this numeral does not capture delays in approval, nor clients who accepted less, signed away their rights to future treatment.
Ms Tesseyman signed away her rights to future physiotherapy treatment to have the TAC pay for a foot orthosis brace to support her walking.
“With TAC, you can do an internal review of the decision or your lawyers can negotiate with the TAC,” she said.
“I ended up having to sign away my rights to physiotherapy for that injury forever and that is counted as an approval,” she said.
Ms Tesseyman hopes the inquiry would result in meaningful change, including greater involvement from people with lived experience.
“People who have lived experience need to have a voice in the decision-making of how TAC is run and how its policies and procedures work,” she said.
She said reform was needed not just for current claimants, but for future road trauma victims.
“I want those people to be able to have a better life. I want them not to have to fight TAC in the way that all of us are.”
Head of Clients at TAC Kath Gobbi told Star
Mail “We are committed to supporting the recovery and wellbeing of every TAC client, and that means making treatment decisions based on clinical evidence and what will deliver the best long-term outcomes.”
“We have made a range of improvements over the past two years to address the issues raised in the inquiry and we look forward to the committee’s report and recommendations for further improvement,” she told Star Mail.
According to the TAC, clients are currently experiencing improvements from changes introduced through this strategy, including:
- Enhancements to payment processes that have increased first-time payment rates and reduced repeat contact, contributing to an 11 per cent reduction in call volumes
- Significantly improved call responsiveness, with average wait times reducing from 11 minutes to approximately two minutes, reducing delays and improving access to support
- A streamlined Independent Medical Examination (IME) process to accelerate the delivery of benefits and entitlements to injured clients, with the objective of reducing appointment wait times from around 68 days to between 21 and 28 days
- Early adoption of AI tools to improve the quality and consistency of record-keeping, supporting clearer communication and more efficient client follow-up, improving post-call client feedback to an average of 9 out of 10 rating.
In relation to medical providers, the TAC recognises administrative complexity can impact providers and is streamlining billing, payment and approval processes to reduce burden.
This includes improving payment systems, increasing first-time payment rates and reducing repeat contact for providers.
The TAC told Star Mail fee adjustments in allied health are underway to better reflect market conditions and support provider participation.
From 1 February 2026, the TAC’s physiotherapy fees increased significantly, including a 46 per cent increase for initial assessments and a 43 per cent increase for standard consultations.
From 13 April 2026, following consultation with providers and peak bodies, the TAC launched a new occupational therapy service model and related fee updates.
From 1 July 2026, the TAC increased psychology and neuropsychology fees by more than 20 per cent in line with market rates.
Further fee reviews across allied health disciplines – including hand therapy, osteopathy, chiropractic, exercise physiology and speech pathology – are scheduled progressively throughout 2026.
TAC clients await the parliamentary committee’s TAC inquiry findings in August.
To view the Inquiry Transcript, head to: www. parliament.vic.gov.au
By Oliver Winn
A suite of proposed laws targeting anonymous online hate could help clean up local online forums in the Yarra Valley, a noticeboard moderator said.
The reforms announced on Sunday 19 July by the State Government would give the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) the ability to identify anonymous accounts through “demasking orders”.
The laws have been welcomed by local Facebook noticeboard moderators and social media experts, but the details will determine whether they’re effective or not.
Geoff Sturre, an admin of a Yarra Valley Noticeboard on Facebook, said the new laws would help get rid of unnecessary hateful abuse posted by anonymous accounts.
“If you haven’t got the guts to put your name behind it, then you probably shouldn’t be saying it. And that’s simple,” Mr Sturre said.
Dr Dana Mckay, an academic from RMIT’s School of Computing Technologies, said the new laws could give victims of hate more tools to combat anonymous online abuse.
Individuals have had to rely on social media platforms to intervene when reporting online hate — a process which rarely results in the identification of the offender.
“VCAT supporting Victorians to access online protections would be another legal mechanism where social media companies are being held to account, in an environment where the tide of public opinion is turning against them,” Dr Mckay said.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said “our kids are paying the price” of social media and AI companies that fail to protect from hate.
“If a platform hurts a child, families should be able to take that company to court.”
Mr Sturre has run the Yarra Valley Noticeboard (not uptight) alongside moderator Sue Thompson for 11 years.
He said he tries to remain as neutral as pos-
sible to allow people the freedom to express their opinions.
“But when they start abusing each other… then we have to manage that,” he said.
“It’s 2026… we should have more respect for people’s choices in life.”
But it’s impossible to stay on top of every single post, and the new laws could prevent people from spewing online hate.
“I can’t monitor the board 24-seven…
“It would be cleaner for me. I don’t want 10,000 people saying stupid things anonymously just because they can,” he said.
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Dr Mckay echoed the sentiment.
“I also think it’s going to help the moderators of these communities, because like all of the moderators, they’re volunteers.
“Love them or hate them, love or hate their decisions, I believe that most of them are doing the best they can to do a good job of making these community spaces,” she said.
The laws would also help “change the tone” of social media, Dr Mckay said, and help those from marginalised communities engage without fear of discrimination.
“People who experience online hate are
disproportionately people who exist in minorities. People with disabilities, people who are not white, people who are on the rainbow spectrum somewhere, women. And essentially the culture of this online abuse makes it harder for those people to participate publicly.”
Under current laws, people can report anonymous online abuse to the police, who can make social media companies reveal the poster, enabling the victim to take legal action.
But Dr Mckay said the police have a history of not taking reports of online harassment “seriously”.
Social media companies too are known to “take their sweet time” in even responding to the police’s requests for information.
Dr Mckay said VCAT’s demasking orders provided Victorians with an alternative legal mechanism to combat anonymous online abuse.
But, the laws would have to be airtight in their wording to ensure it can’t be “politically weaponised”.
“The first thing that they have to include is a really clear definition of what constitutes hate… We also need a really clear definition of what evidence you have to provide because that’s going to be pretty tricky given how easy it is to AI generate stuff these days,” she said.
“VCAT will need to have a very clear process and good explanations for why they make the decisions they do too.
“The first people who do it can expect it to take ages because, like I say, social media companies are not going to battle this voluntarily. It’s going to be a long court battle.”
The State Government will also lower the legal threshold to sue social media and artificial intelligence platforms for negligence causing psychiatric harm to children.
The Premier said the new laws were in the process of being drafted, following consultations of tribunal, courts and other stakeholders.
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By Gabriella Vukman
Healesville residents are being encouraged to take simple steps now to protect their homes as storm season approaches.
Volunteers from the Healesville SES spent the evenings of Thursday 16 and 23 July outside Coles and Aldi speaking with locals about practical ways to reduce storm damage before severe weather strikes.
Deputy controller of community engagement for the Healesville SES Michelle Zwagerman said the response from the community was positive, with volunteers having meaningful conversations with around 6 to 70 residents across the two sessions.
“We spoke with people about preparing for storms and gave them a brochure with a checklist of simple things they can do around the house,” Ms Zwagerman said.
“These are straightforward tasks, but they can make a big difference in preventing flash flooding or stopping branches from falling onto homes, cars or driveways.”
The key messages focused on three common causes of storm damage in the Healesville and surrounding area: clearing gutters, keeping roadside and driveway drains free of debris, and trimming back trees and large branches that could become hazards during strong winds.
Ms Zwagerman said blocked drains remain one of the most common issues local SES volunteers encounter during heavy rainfall.
“We have attended homes where water has overflowed from blocked drains and entered people’s houses,” she said.
“It is something that is often preventable if people keep those drains clear.”
While many long-term locals are already well prepared for storm season, Ms Zwagerman said newer residents are often unaware of the risks.
“People who have lived here understand the damage storms can do,” she said.
“They have cleaned their gutters, trimmed their trees and secured outdoor furniture if they know strong winds are coming.”
“But people who are new to the area often don’t realise the consequences if they don’t act soon.”
One of the campaign’s goals was simply to start conversations and encourage neighbours to look out for one another.
“I often ask people if they have new neighbours who have moved from the city,” Michelle said.
“They might not know they need to prepare this way, so it’s worth knocking on their door, introducing yourself and sharing your storm stories.”
For Michelle, connecting with the community is one of the most rewarding parts of volunteering.
“We heard so many stories from people about storms they have lived through or times the SES has helped them,” she said.
“We also got plenty of thank you’s from people we have assisted in the past, and it is lovely to reconnect with them.”
The SES also managed to raise $100 in community donations for their unit through the two information sessions.
Michelle said the campaign was about prevention above all else.
“We’re already in storm season and we’ve had a couple of significant storms come
through in the past month,” she said.
“If people prepare their properties beforehand, they hopefully won’t need to call us. Prevention is always better than fixing things afterwards.”
SES Member Amanda Congreve hopes more residents become aware of the SES and the services it provides.
“Everyone knows the CFA and what they do, but a lot of people don’t realise the SES is here to help during storms and floods,” she said.
For storm and flood emergency assistance, contact the SES on 132 500.
Residents are also encouraged to follow their local SES unit’s Facebook page for seasonal preparedness information and safety advice.
By Callum Ludwig
Despite the Outer East being no stranger to emergencies, a concerning amount of the community might still be without an effective emergency plan in the event of a disaster.
The March 2025 bushfire in Montrose was a key example of some community members becoming complacent, leading to frustration between themselves and emergency services.
In a CFA media release in October 2025, resident Bree Kuffer said the most important lesson that arose from the fire was the importance of keeping up to date and knowing your threshold to take action.
“We’re very fortunate now, to have real-time information provided to us in a way that perhaps wasn’t around 10 or 20 years ago. During the Montrose incident, we were very much keeping an eye on the VicEmergency app and watching CFA on Facebook,” she said.
“One of the lessons out of Montrose’s fire was that when it is widespread and there’s multiple areas at risk, it’s probably not realistic to expect in an event like that that a fire truck will come to your house and make everything okay.
“Everybody that lives in an area like this has to be aware of what their risk is, what they have to take control of themselves, and ultimately when to leave.”
A new survey from NRMA Insurance and the Australian Red Cross highlights significant gaps in household emergency plans, revealing most parents lack the basic preparedness needed to respond effectively in a crisis.
The study found just 37 per cent of parents feel
well prepared for an emergency, only 27 per cent have an emergency kit and nearly half (49 per cent) admit they would struggle to locate important items if they needed to leave their home quickly in an emergency.
“We know parents are some of the most concerned and anxious about the threat of extreme weather, yet many struggle to find time for emergency planning among a mountain of other daily to-dos,” Australian Red Cross’ director of national recovery and resilience Nichola Krey said.
“Having an emergency plan in place not only saves vital minutes where every second counts, it also helps families stay calm and think clearly in high stress situations.”
Despite the growing risks from extreme weather across Australia, the findings reveal emergency preparedness is falling behind other areas of family life.
In fact, parents are more likely to have a clear routine for preparing their household for a dinner party (69 per cent) than an emergency (53 per cent).
However, while parents are highly prepared in many aspects of life such as pantry organisation (62 per cent), weekly meal prepping (58 per cent), family planners (45 per cent), and even having a stash of birthday or Christmas gifts on hand (52 per cent), essential emergency planning is often overlooked (27 per cent).
With extreme weather events becoming more frequent and severe, NRMA Insurance’s executive manager of community impact Jen Cobley said preparation has never been more important.
“As an insurer, we see firsthand the devastating physical and emotional impacts severe
weather events can have on families and communities,” she said.
“Understanding your local risks and taking simple steps to prepare before an event happens is one of the most effective ways to protect your loved ones and treasured items.”
To help parents get emergency ready these school holidays, NRMA Insurance and Australian
Red Cross have partnered with organisation guru Monique Popa (@theorganisedeverydaymum) to turn aesthetic organisation hacks into life-saving habits.
Inspired by lessons learnt through Australian Red Cross EmergencyRedi™ Workshops, Monique has created a practical ‘Emergency Edit’ - a simple guide to help busy parents get organised for an emergency:
■Prepare an ICE Folder (in case of emergency folder) with important family documents. ■Pack an emergency essentials kit – batteries, torch, first aid kit etc - stored for easy access.
■Create kid’s calm cases – for emotional support (featuring craft, games and comfort toys).
■Prep your pantry – with non-perishable food, water and snacks in an easy to grab basket.
Monique said the experience of attending an Australian Red Cross EmergencyRedi Workshop, where she learnt about the RediPlan, was an eye-opener.
“Like many parents, I was focused on keeping everything organised day-to-day, but I hadn’t properly considered what I would do if an emergency occurred,” she said.
“After attending the workshop, I realised how important and simple it is to get prepared for emergencies and how much peace of mind it gives you.
“I created my ‘Emergency Edit’ to help more Australian parents take simple actions to protect their families and put their own emergency RediPlan in place.”
You can find out more about EmergencyRedi workshops and RediPlans here: redcross.org.au/ emergencyredi/.
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By Oliver Winn
Life-changing multiple sclerosis medications will remain subsidised, sending a sigh of relief throughout those in the Yarra Valley living with the chronic neurological condition.
It came after a pricing dispute between the Federal Government and pharmaceutical companies was resolved on 16 July.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients had feared they’d have to fork out about $33,000 yearly to privately fund medications after pharmaceutical companies threatened to pull their drugs from Australia’s market.
Wandin woman Lauren Sneddon lives with MS and said the news was “an amazing outcome” for the MS community.
“I think that would alleviate a significant amount of stress for the people that are on the medication,” she said.
Federal Health Minister Mark Butler confirmed MS medications Ocrevus, Kesimpta and Lemtrada would stay on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), keeping costs at $25 and $7.70 for concession card holders.
Though Ms Sneddon doesn’t take the medications in question, she said the great stress it would have put people living with MS under.
“I can’t imagine the stress involved at the idea that people would need to pay thousands upon thousands of dollars for a treatment that is working for them, or face changing the medication and therefore worsening or progressing their condition.
“I think the fact that it’s been resolved, it’s a huge sigh of relief.”
MS Australia director Sharlene Brown, who lives with MS and has been successfully treated with Ocrevus for more than seven years, echoed the sentiment.
“This announcement will bring enormous relief to people living with MS and their families. Continued PBS access means people can keep working with their neurologists to choose the treatment that is right for them, without the fear that effective options will be placed out of reach,” Ms Brown said.
Manufacturers Roche, Novartis and Sanofi Genzyme were involved in a high-profile dispute with the Federal Government when they were requested to lower the cost of their medications by up to 50 per cent.
When a new, cheaper medication was listed on the PBS last year, it triggered a pricing review of the three other highly effective MS medications.
This is because Australia’s PBS system groups certain drugs together, with the cheapest drug in the group acting as a benchmark price for the
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rest.
The drug manufacturers then argued a price cut of 40 to 50 per cent would be commercially unsustainable and threatened to withdraw the drugs from the PBS.
The PBS has been criticised over its pricing policies by many other major pharmaceutical companies in 2026.
As reported by the ABC, AstraZeneca removed a cancer and endometriosis drug from the Australian market in June due to commercial reasons. Meanwhile, Eli Lilly withdrew diabetes drug Mounjaro in April.
In March last year, US pharmaceutical companies wrote a letter to US president Donald Trump, claiming drug prices in Australia are too low and that it is damaging its commercial viability.
Ms Sneddon said it was disappointing how pharmaceutical companies continue to place profits over people.
“But at the end of the day, it’s people’s lives that this comes down to affecting. It’s not the bottom line of a company, it’s not the government, it’s the people living with MS that have to then, day-to-day, endure what these changes might have meant,” she said.
She said Australia needed to rethink its approach to managing MS.
“What it highlights to me is that, maybe we need to focus more on treatment as a whole and rather than just managing symptoms.”
“Maybe we need to be looking at a larger, more effective treatment and moving faster on those treatments and allowing people to have more access to it so that these issues aren’t arising and that we’re not just relying on pharmaceuticals.”
Into The Wild Gardens works closely with clients, families and service providers to deliver reliable maintenance solutions tailored to individual needs. This community focused approach has made the business a trusted choice for many residents throughout the region. With a strong commitment to sustainability, functionality and customer care, Into The Wild Gardens continues to enhance homes and gardens across the hills, creating spaces where people can connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of their local environment for years to come.
By Gabriella Vukman
WIth a wave of proposed state and federal artificial intelligence reforms, the topic of AI and its role in the nation’s future has become an issue of immense saliency.
The Yarra Ranges is no exception to the impact of these potential reforms.
The Victorian Government has unveiled election commitments aimed at strengthening protections against online harm, workplace surveillance and AI-driven discrimination, while the Federal Government is developing a national framework that would require technology companies to build safety into AI systems and introduce new consumer protections.
Together, the proposals could affect residents, schools, local businesses, community organisations and councils across the Yarra Ranges, where artificial intelligence is already being used to improve planning services, investigate future environmental projects and support critical infrastructure.
As Australia moves towards greater regulation of the rapidly expanding technology, many of the changes being debated are already beginning to play out locally.
While governments debate regulation, artificial intelligence has already been adopted by organisations across the Yarra Ranges.
Yarra Ranges Shire Council has developed a generative AI planning tool to help residents navigate complex planning controls before lodging applications.
Supported through the Victorian Government’s Digital Planning Grants program, the online tool allows residents to describe their project in plain language before being guided through relevant planning requirements.
The council said the technology is intended to improve the quality of planning applications, reduce assessment times and allow planners to spend more time helping residents with more complex enquiries.
The council is also looking to expand its use of AI through its 2025-27 Advocacy Priorities, seeking state and federal funding for a $1.5 million Greenprint project.
The proposal would use AI to create digital maps combining cultural and environmental assets with disaster risk data to help reconnect fragmented habitats, strengthen biodiversity, protect waterways and improve long-term environmental management across the municipality.
Yarra Ranges Council Director of Corporate Services Vincenzo Lombardi said the council supported responsible regulation of AI while continuing to explore opportunities to improve services for the community.
“The biggest benefit we’ve seen from AI is its ability to improve access to information and help people understand complex information more quickly,” he said.
A popular travel and lifestyle show visited Warburton to shine the spotlight on the area’s diverse range of restaurants.
Channel 9’s Postcards were out filming at South Indian restaurant Babaji’s Kerala Kitchen, Italian restaurant Al Trancio and Vietnamese restaurant Camon Co on Tuesday 21 July.
Babaji’s Kerala Kitchen co-owner Billy Crombie said it was a “smooth and positive” experience that would give great exposure to the restaurants of Warburton.
“So we invited around 12 locals who came along to be in the background, because we were closed on that day. We chose to open because it’s a great opportunity to showcase Babaji’s and the food of Warburton,” Ms Crombie said.
‘We put the fires on, made us look cozy, and the Warby locals helped us by having a few bums on seats and enjoying some delicious lunch.”
She said the Postcards crew was “really impressed” at the diversity of food in Warburton.
“It was really positive, really, really positive for Warburton, really helped us explain how Babajis Kerala Kitchen is different to other Indian food, and to showcase the food of Kerala.”
Postcards presenter and Melbourne chef Shane Delia chatted with Ms Crombie about what separates the restaurant from other Indian
Mr Lombardi said that for residents this meant faster access to information and a smoother experience when interacting with council, including through the new online planning tool, while staff could spend less time on administration and more time delivering services.
“Across all of our services, Council officers remain responsible for decisions, advice and outcomes. AI can assist with accessing or summarising information, but it does not make planning decisions or other statutory decisions on behalf of Council.”
He said community trust remained essential, with the council’s AI governance framework requiring human oversight, testing, monitoring and regular review of AI systems.
“We believe sensible and balanced regulation can help build public confidence while still supporting innovation.”
“Community members should be informed of when AI has been used, what its role has played and how Council ensures there is still human judgement and accountability behind the outcome.”
Mr Lombardi said council welcomed greater accountability through the proposed state and federal reforms and confirmed Yarra Ranges Council does not currently use AI in recruitment.
“Any future use would be carefully considered and subject to appropriate governance, transparency and, most importantly, human oversight.”
He said the council also considered AI’s environmental impacts and only used the technology where it delivered a clear benefit to the organisation or community.
Yarra Valley Water is also investigating how artificial intelligence could improve its operations.
The water authority is developing a proof-ofconcept system that would use generative AI to analyse data from sensors across its water and sewer network, helping predict infrastructure failures before they occur and allowing maintenance crews to target inspections more efficiently.
A Yarra Valley Water spokesperson said the organisation was taking a cautious approach to AI in its workforce.
“We don’t currently use AI in our recruitment or hiring processes.”
The spokesperson said Yarra Valley Water was exploring where AI could assist in the future but stressed people would remain at the centre of employment decisions.
“As AI continues to evolve, we’re exploring how it could help with administrative tasks and support our recruitment process. Any future use of AI would be carefully considered and used to support, not replace, people.”
“We’re committed to providing a positive and inclusive candidate experience, with people at the centre of every hiring decision.”
Announced on 21 July as part of Labor’s state election campaign, the Victorian Government has promised to introduce what it describes as ‘nation-leading AI laws’ if re-elected in November.
For Yarra Ranges families, the biggest changes would centre on children’s online safety, with the government planning to give the Victorian Civil Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) new powers to issue “demasking orders.”
These demasking orders would require social media companies to identify anonymous users accused of online vilification.
The Victorian Government also plans to make it easier for families to sue social media and AI companies where children suffer psychiatric harm, removing the current legal threshold requiring proof of at least 10 per cent permanent impairment before claims can proceed.
In a media release, premier Jacinta Allen said technology companies needed to take greater responsibility.
“Social media and AI companies design their platforms to be addictive, and our kids are paying the price,” she said.
“If a platform hurts a child, families should be able to take that company to court.”
The Victorian Government has also proposed what it describes as the country’s ‘toughest’ workplace AI and surveillance protections.
Should Labor’s election promise come to fruition, employers would be required to notify staff if workplace surveillance technology is being used, consult workers before introducing or changing monitoring systems, and ensure a human reviews any significant automated decision affecting a worker’s rights.
The proposal would also amend the Equal Opportunity Act to prevent AI from discriminating in recruitment, promotion and pay, while limiting the use of biometric data and AI systems that monitor workers’ movements, emotions or physical characteristics without a legitimate purpose.
At the national level, the Albanese Government is taking a broader approach through the creation of a new Office for AI and proposed a Digital Duty of Care that would require AI companies to build safety measures into their products from the outset.
The proposals announced in mid-July include monitoring AI-driven “retail surveillance pricing” where businesses use customer data to personalise prices, and introducing standards for major AI data centres covering energy use, water consumption and impacts on surrounding com-
munities.
The Office for AI will coordinate these reforms across government while overseeing the development of Australia’s national AI standards.
For many Yarra Ranges residents, the proposed legislation could influence how AI operates across many of the services and businesses they rely on every day, often without them realising it.
A spokesperson from Coles told Star Mail, the supermarket has been using AI across its national operations for over a decade to forecast customer demand, replenish stock, plan staff rosters, tailor product ranges to local communities, and support both in-store and online operations.
“Coles’ use of AI is managed through a national governance framework, with privacy, security, human oversight and responsibly built into the way we assess and deploy AI-enabled systems,” the spokesperson said.
According to Coles, where AI is used in customer-facing experiences, such as personalised offers, the company focuses on ensuring the experience is useful, relevant and consistent with its privacy obligations.
The company’s approach aligns with several themes emerging in the proposed state and federal reforms, including human oversight, privacy and responsible governance of AI systems.
While much of the debate has focused on online safety and workplace regulation, Star News Group managing director Paul Thomas said another issue remained unresolved: how AI companies use original journalism.
Mr Thomas said the proposed federal Digital Duty of Care and Office for AI were positive steps, but they did not fully address the commercial use of publishers’ work.
“Those reforms are important, particularly around safety and accountability, but they don’t address the fundamental economic question,” Mr Thomas said.
“Governments also need to ensure creators and publishers are fairly compensated when their work is used commercially by AI systems.
“As AI makes it easier to generate convincing text, images and even video, the value of trusted local journalism increases.”
Mr Thomas said while much of the debate had centred on online safety, workplaces and consumer protection, the long-term sustainability of local journalism also needed to remain part of the national AI conversation.
According to Mr Thomas, local newspapers remained essential sources of verified information in regional communities.
“Without journalism, there is no democracy.”
With governments aiming to balance innovation with stronger safeguards, residents and businesses across the Yarra Ranges are likely to see increasing changes to how artificial intelligence is used in workplaces, schools, government services and everyday life.
By Callum Ludwig
The campaign for a national approach to animal welfare has been boosted by a business case highlighting the financial benefits of reducing ‘duplication, fragmentation and lengthy delays’ in the sector.
The Australian Alliance for Animals commissioned a report from Frontier Economics, which indicated as much as $3.5 million could be saved by federal and state governments by establishing a National Animal Welfare Commission.
Australian Alliance for Animals’s director of policy Dr Jed Goodfellow said the report demonstrates the case for reform has never been stronger.
“Australia’s animal welfare system isn’t just slow – it’s fundamentally broken, and has stopped delivering the timely, nationally consistent reforms that governments, industry and the community expect,” he said.
“For ten years we’ve had a recommendation from one of Australia’s most respected economic institutions sitting on the shelf.
“Today we have independent economic analysis showing that implementing that recommendation would actually save governments money.”
The report has been released just short of 10 years since the Productivity Commission’s Regulation of Australian Agriculture inquiry highlighted that the process for setting farm animal welfare standards did not adequately value the community benefits of animal welfare and recommended a statutory agency be established.
Northern Victoria MP Georgie Purcell said the proposal is something she and the Animal Justice Party have been calling for for quite some time.
“The obvious reason is that the animal protection system is a bureaucratic nightmare, there’s a range of different agencies, there’s different MOUs between certain departments and authorities, and it means that animals are often left languishing or with no real protection,” she said.
“On top of that, it is also very costly and there’s a lot of money being spent for not-sogreat outcomes.
“By implementing a national commission or an independent office, as we’ve seen in other jurisdictions around the world, we have the ability to not just better protect animals, but save taxpayer money as well.”
Currently, state and territory governments are
responsible for animal welfare regulation within their borders, with the federal government’s responsibility limited to livestock exports.
“The Australian Government is currently working with the states and territories to develop an Australian Animal Welfare Strategy by the end of 2027,” a Department of Agriculture spokesperson said.
The proposal would require consideration and agreement by all Australian governments, including the states and territories, if it was to proceed.
Ms Purcell said the current approach means we really don’t have any consistency when it comes to how we view animals and what is the best life for them.
“The majority of legislation that governs the
welfare of animals is on a state-by-state basis, whether that be in terms of standard practices within farming industries, whether it be in relation to caging, whether it be in relation to racing industries, every single state differs.
“When we have that approach on a stateby-state basis, it means in many circumstances where one state acts on an issue and an industry might need to change, there is a risk that the cruelty will just move to another area.”
An example of this cited by Ms Purcell is Victoria’s puppy farm laws implemented in 2017, which capped the number of dogs breeders could keep to 10, which also saw many move their operations interstate. The puppy farm laws have reared up again in 2026, with Ms Purcell and other animal activists highlighting the 10
ministerial exemptions which have been granted to allow those breeders to keep up to 50 dogs.
Ms Purcell said another example was the national agreement to phase out the battery cage in caged hen systems.
“The federal government set that time frame and different states picked and chose when they would do it and what that means is it actually creates significant animal welfare risk,” she said.
“Because if one state goes far before another, many factory farms could relocate to the state that’s taking a longer phase-out period, and ultimately put political pressure on to continue the practice within those states.
“That’s just not resulting in the outcomes that we want, it’s simply resulting in animal cruelty changing location.”
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Well, yes. Actually, it is a bird.
A new bird of prey is soaring onto the scene at Healesville Sanctuary, with Audax the majestic Wedge-tailed Eagle joining the iconic Spirits of the Sky free-flight presentation.
Named after the scientific name for the species Aquila audax, the wedgie has spent three years training in the wings.
His keepers opted for a less intrusive, more hands-off method that’s novel for the species.
Healesville Sanctuary Keeper Jessica Ratcliff said three years might seem like a long time, but over a half-century lifespan, it’s a short trade-off.
Sort of like going to school to set yourself up for the rest of your life.
“One of the first steps was building a relationship. We needed to spend lots of time getting to know him and letting him know that we were trustworthy, that we brought good things, good treats and safety for him,” Ms Ratcliff said.
“We focused solely on consent-based training, where everything is about positive reinforcement. We’ve built strong foundational behaviours, prepared him for crate training and introduced him to multiple people.”
“We even taught Audax to have his GPS transmitters voluntarily put on his tail feathers. He will stand still to receive a head scratch, which he loves, while we put them on.”
Despite Audax looking like a big scary bird, Ratcliff admits he’s a complete sweetie.
“He calls to the zookeepers,” she said.
“With people he knows, he’s sweet, delightful and funny. He’s not what people expect.”
Audax came to live at Healesville Sanctuary after he became too humanised and therefore wouldn’t have been able to thrive on his own in the wild.
He is currently the only Wedge-tailed Eagle in the Spirits of the Sky presentation.
A new wedge-tailed eagle has joined Healesville Sanctuary’s ‘Spirits of the Sky’
Sadly, long-term resident eagle Magra passed away in September last year.
Scans revealed changes to her organs with no signs of improvement.
She was a powerful presence at the Sanctuary for 28 years and is dearly missed.
The Spirits of the Sky free flight bird presentation is a major highlight of a visit to Healesville Sanctuary.
The presentation runs twice daily at 12noon and 3 pm, lasting approximately 20-30 minutes.
No two presentations are the same, with zookeepers guided by each bird and what they choose to do on the day.
Healesville Sanctuary is open all year round. Kids visit free on weekends, public holidays and Victorian school holidays.
Wedge-tailed Eagles are Australia’s largest bird of prey.
Their impressive wingspan can range from 2.3 to 2.8 metres.
They are carnivorous birds that can catch and kill their prey mid-flight.
You can find Wedge-tailed Eagles in forest, savanna, shrubland and grassland environments across Australia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. Threats to their survival in the wild include road trauma, often while eating carrion, and human persecution via shooting, trapping and poisoning.
By Gabriella Vukman
Students at Yering Primary School are continuing to develop their public speaking skills, following the completion of a Youth Leadership Programme (YLP) designed to build confidence, communication and presentation abilities.
Teaching students to create and deliver speeches while learning techniques to structure their ideas, engage an audience and present with confidence, the programme has set the students of Yering Primary up to compete in the upcoming annual Rotary Speech competition in August.
The students’ progress will also feature in a future radio segment on Yarra Valley FM, where the participants will share their experiences and discuss the skills they have developed through the program.
The programme was delivered over eight weeks in June by Healesville local and Toastmaster Cora Zon.
“I chose the Youth Leadership Program as my final project to earn my Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) award because I coordinate the Schools-in Program at Yarra Valley FM and want to encourage more schools to get involved with community radio,” Ms Zon said.
“The YLP offered by Toastmasters helps students gain confidence in public speaking, and those skills transfer naturally to radio.”
Ms Zon said projects such as the Youth Leadership Program are important because Toastmasters members have the opportunity to share their knowledge and facilitate student learning.
“It was wonderful to see the students grow in confidence over the eight weeks,” she said.
According to Ms Zon, when a Toastmasters club reaches particular education and membership goals, it earns recognition as a Distinguished Club.
This shows the club has active members who are committed to learning, supporting each other, and growing their communication and leadership skills.
Ms Zon said, “Members who develop public speaking and leadership skills through Toastmasters often use those skills throughout the local community.”
“The Toastmasters Pathways program helps members communicate ideas effectively and plan meaningful community projects,” she said.
“I’ve used many of the projects in Pathways to help organise creative workshops, art exhibitions and the Healesville Zine Fair.”
Now in preparation for the Rotary Speech Competition, the students of Yering Primary School are reflecting on the programme.
For Grade 6 student Harmony, the experience
helped her overcome nerves and appreciate the value of hearing different perspectives from her classmates.
“I really enjoyed the fact that everybody was having a go and that everyone ended up giving a speech,” Harmony said.
“It was really exciting.”
Harmony said her approach to writing and presenting changed throughout the programme.
“I started off putting a lot of effort into my speech but not thinking about actually reading it out,” she said.
“At the end of the programme I learned that it’s really about how you present the speech.”
Harmony said presenting her work and hearing from other students were some of the highlights of the programme.
“Putting together a speech is really hard but presenting it and being proud of it is really exciting,” she said.
“I also enjoyed listening to some of the other kids’ speeches because I got to learn a bit more about people and I got to have a good laugh.”
Teacher at Yering Primary School Brenda, said the changes among students were noticeable throughout the program, particularly in their delivery and confidence.
“How they stand, how they present their information, their choice of words, their vocal variety, - it’s all changed quite a bit.”
“We’ll definitely continue the programme every year,” she said.
Grade 6 student Adele said the programme took her by surprise.
“At the start I was unsure about the programme because I’d never heard of, or done this before,” Adele said.
“As it went on, it became really intriguing, and it just helped me so much.”
Adele said one of the strengths of the program was making speech preparation interactive and accessible for students.
“Cora actually made it quite fun,” she said.
“She turned it into a fun activity by thinking of it as a hamburger.”
The hamburger activity helped students un-
derstand the different parts of a speech, including introductions, main points and conclusions.
Adele said the program also helped her build confidence when speaking in front of others.
“I’m quite a shy person, so I normally talk quite quietly on stage,” she said.
“But this Youth Leadership Programme has taught me you don’t need to be afraid, just give it your best go, and talk more loudly.”
As the students prepare for the Rotary Speech Competition, Adele said she is geared up, while acknowledging the challenge of speaking in front of a larger audience.
“I feel prepared with my speech because I’ve had plenty of tips and I feel ready,” she said.
“But at the same time, there’s always that little bit of nervousness coming up on stage in front of lots of people and delivering a speech.”
With students continuing to practise and refine their speeches, the Youth Leadership Programme has provided a foundation for stronger communication skills that they can carry into future learning opportunities.
Community gardens, social impact programs, and environmental education projects are among 18 local initiatives sharing nearly $180,000 through Yarra Valley Water’s 2026 Community Grants Program, with several projects in the Yarra Ranges, Maroondah, Whitehorse and Manningham among this year’s successful recipients.
Now in its second year, the program supports community organisations, schools and local groups to deliver projects that use water wisely, strengthen communities and care for the environment.
The eastern suburb projects are among 18 organisations funded through this year’s program and will deliver projects ranging from environmental education and water conservation to community wellbeing.
Yarra Ranges recipient, Coldstream Primary School, will use its $3,000 grant to help students better understand sustainable water use through hands-on learning.
Acting Principal at Coldstream Primary School Liam Sommers said, Coldstream Primary School is ‘thrilled’ to receive this support from Yarra Valley Water.
“At Coldstream, our students love getting their hands dirty in the vegetable garden and helping to care for our chickens in ‘Cluckingham Palace,’ so this project is something they are incredibly excited about,” he said.
“The grant will allow us to connect our rainwater tank to these much-loved outdoor learning spaces, giving students a practical way to see sustainability in action. Rather than simply learning about water conservation in the classroom, they’ll be able to experience firsthand how collecting and reusing water can make a real difference.”
“What makes this project so special is that it combines environmental education with au-
thentic, everyday learning. We can’t wait to see our gardens thrive, our chickens benefit, and our students continue to develop a lifelong appreciation for environmental and sustainable approaches. We are very grateful.”
Other eastern suburb projects that will use the funding to deliver a range of projects include:
■Billanook Primary School, Yarra Ranges, will deliver a project supporting environmental education and water-wise practices for students.
■Migrant Information Centre (Eastern Melbourne), Yarra Ranges, will provide a community initiative focused on sustainability and community connection.
■North Ringwood Community Children’s Centre, Maroondah, will support water-wise and environmental learning opportunities for local
children and families.
■Jubilee Housing, Whitehorse, will deliver a project supporting vulnerable community members while promoting sustainable resource use.
■The Kevin Heinze Garden Centre, Manningham, will enhance environmental education and community participation through practical sustainability initiatives.
■Worawa Aboriginal College, Yarra Ranges, will support environmental sustainability and learning opportunities for students.
Managing Director at Yarra Valley Water Natalie Foeng said the program demonstrates the powerful role local organisations play in delivering lasting benefits for community and the environment.
“The response to this year’s grants program
showed just how passionate local communities are about creating positive change,” Ms Foeng said.
“Every project we support will create a ripple effect of positive impact. Whether it’s helping communities build water smart habits, improving access to water, or bringing people together through shared spaces, these projects will deliver benefits that extend well beyond our funding.”
Ms Foeng said supporting local organisations to bring practical ideas to life is at the heart of Yarra Valley Water’s Community Grants Program.
“Local organisations understand the needs of their communities better than anyone. By supporting practical, community-led projects, we’re helping create lasting outcomes for people and the environment.
“We look forward to seeing these projects come to life over the coming year and the positive impact they will have on local communities, waterways, biodiversity and future generations.”
Other successful 2026 Community Grants recipients are:
■Boots For All, Whittlesea
■Coburg Primary School, Merri-Bek
■1st Craigieburn Scout Group (The Scout Association of Australia Victorian Branch), Hume
■Donnybrook Primary School, Whittlesea
■Friends of Darebin Creek, Darebin
■Jika Jika Community Centre, Darebin
■Sikh Community Connections Inc, Whittlesea
■Sussex Neighbourhood House, Merri-Bek
■The Friends of Damper Creek Conservation Reserve, Monash
■The Motherhood Lounge, Hume
■Victoria State Emergency Service Heidelberg Unit, Banyule
For more information about Yarra Valley Water’s Community Grants Program, visit: https:// www.yvw.com.au/community-grants.
A new collection service is making it easier for local fire stations and community groups to earn money from Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic).
The Bayswater CDS Vic depot, run by Outlook Australia, is offering free pick-ups directly from fire stations and community groups in a boost to local fundraising efforts.
Among the early adopters is the Hoddles Creek CFA network, which covers 10 fire stations. A primary school and nine community groups have also benefitted from the added convenience.
Hoddles Creek CFA Junior Coordinator Kristen Caldwell said the service makes it easier for brigades to participate without placing extra pressure on volunteers.
“Every extra dollar makes a difference for local brigades, but so does every hour of volunteer time. This collection service takes away a lot of the effort involved, making it easier for us to take part in the scheme while spending more time coordinating our volunteers and delivering quality training programs.
“The money we raise helps the brigade run training weekends and camps and buy uniforms — things that parents of juniors would otherwise have to fund.”
Under the initiative, groups still receive the full 10-cent refund per container but without the transport hassle.
The CDS Vic Bayswater depot says the move is about making the scheme more accessible and boosting local impact.
“We know local groups are busy and vol-
unteer time is limited,” a depot spokesperson said.
“By collecting directly, we’re making it easier for volunteers and community organisations to raise funds without added time or effort of transporting containers.”
As the North Zone operator for CDS Vic, Visy continues to support the growth and impact of refund points like the Bayswater depot.
Tim O’Donnell, General Manager Container Deposit Scheme at Visy, said the new service meant more options for people to return their containers.
“The dedication of the Bayswater team is an outstanding example of the positive social impact embedded within Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme. This new service will keep even more valuable materials out of landfill while giving community groups a simple, reliable fundraising stream,” he said.
For local brigades and clubs, that means less time worrying about logistics — and more time focused on serving their communities.
If your organisation would like to arrange a collection service, reach out to Outlook Australia at outlookaust.org.au/contact to find out more.
Volunteers Logan Pelling (Hoddles Creek Junior Fire Brigade) and Chase Pelling (Yarra Junction FireBrigade) collecting drink containers at their local fire station. (Supplied)
Yering Primary School is a small school on the Melba Highway between Coldstream and Yarra Glen.
We attract students from Yering, Healesville, Yarra Glen, Coldstream, Lilydale and other surrounding areas of the Yarra Valley. Some choose us for our size, wanting a smaller school setting, hence smaller class sizes.
Yering Primary School provides a caring and nurturing learning atmosphere where we cater for individual needs, providing learning and emotional support to students whilst always ensuring students are working to the best of their ability.
All areas of the curriculum are covered with specialist areas in Physical Education, Art, Music/Drama, Language Other Than English – Japanese, and a visiting MARC Van (Library). We endeavour to hold family nights each year whether it be a family dinner or a Maths or Science night. We celebrate Mother’s and Father’s and Special people with students making gifts for their parents each year. Gardening and Cooking are items we often do in small groups with the whole school being involved.
A Grade 6 graduation ceremony is held each year for students finishing primary school, and students are encouraged to attend transition programs at local secondary colleges, while Yering run a Prep Transition program for pre-schoolers entering school.
We take up many opportunities for our school and attend many great and enjoyable excursions with learning value. Our senior students can attend kayaking and Lake Mountain, and our Grade 6 students take on the role of School Captains, as well as compete in Athletics and Cross Country Run. Our excursions can relate to the unit of study we are completing, and we enjoy offering a wide range of experiences to the students. Some recent excursions we have attended are Healesville Sanctuary, Mont De Lancey, ACMI and Ad-
ams Farm, as well as taking part in planting at Spadonis Reserve and Yering Billabong, Water Watchers program, Cultural experiences at school, making wildlife rope bridges and completing a junior first aid course.
We pride ourselves on our community
participation – ANZAC Day services as well as holding our own service at Yering/Coldstream, attending local secondary school productions, visits arranged for pre-schools and working with Toastmasters.
We find our students play together across
age and gender and develop games together to play as a whole school. We have a sandpit, oval and basketball court that students enjoy using, as well as a substantial playground. If you would like to enjoy a tour of our school, please call or email the school.
ll l l h
Our students benefit from:
• Small class sizes with personalised learning
• Dedicated and experienced teachers
• Engaging specialist programs
• Beautiful Yarra Valley surroundings
• Strong focus on wellbeing and student success
• A welcoming school community where every child is valued
A Place to Learn. A Place to Belong. A Place to Thrive.
At Yering Primary School, we provide a caring and inclusive environment where every child is encouraged to grow academically, socially and emotionally.
Choosing the right primary school is one of the most important decisions you will make for your child.
Enrolments for 2027 Now Open ly and ued decisions l
Come and discover why families choose Yering Primary School. Book a personalised school tour today.
Enrolments for Prep and all year levels for 2027 are now open. Yering Primary School 22-24 Melba Hwy, Yering 9739 1451
Warburton Bike Park is celebrating a significant milestone, marking one year since opening to riders, with exciting news that the park’s future growth has taken another major step forward.
With more than 1000 riders now visiting the park each week, demand shows no signs of slowing down.
Over the past twelve months, Warburton Bike Park has established itself as one of Australia’s premier mountain bike destinations, attracting riders from across the country and helping showcase the Yarra Valley as a world-class adventure tourism destination.
Since opening, the park has welcomed thousands of visitors who have come to experience its diverse range of trails, stunning forest landscapes and unique riding opportunities. The bike park has also delivered benefits beyond the trail network, supporting local businesses, accommodation providers, cafes, restaurants, and tourism operators throughout the region.
Yarra Ranges Council has now unanimously endorsed a contract variation that will enable works to continue on the next stage of the bike park’s development with leading trail construction company World Trail.
The decision clears the way for construction to continue across the network, paving the way for completion of the highly anticipated Southern Network.
The approval allows World Trail to maintain momentum on site and continue delivering the remaining southern trail network that forms a key part of the bike park’s master plan.
This will bring a wide range of new trails for riders of all abilities, including:
An alternative easy trail into Warburton.
Power climb options up to Edwardstown Junction and the Mt Tugwell summit.
Additional black gravity trails.
An epic adventure trail over Groom Hill and Mt Bride, reaching the highest point of the southern trails.
Once completed, the Southern Network will expand the riding experience available at Warburton Bike Park, providing even more opportunities for riders of varying abilities to explore the area’s spectacular natural landscapes.
With construction continuing and the Southern Network now moving forward, the next chapter of Warburton Bike Park promises even more trails, more adventures and more opportunities for riders to discover why Warburton has become one of Australia’s most talked-about mountain bike destinations.
By Gabriella Vukman
Residents from across the Yarra Ranges gathered in Healesville on Saturday 25 July for the inaugural Ageing Well Expo: Conversations That Matter, a community event that highlighted the importance of staying connected, informed and engaged as we grow older.
Hosted by U3A Healesville, the expo brought together a carefully selected group of local organisations offering practical information and meaningful conversations about the many dimensions of ageing well.
Visitors travelled from throughout the region, including Yarra Glen, to explore services, ask questions and connect with others in a welcoming and relaxed environment.
U3A Healesville President Ethne Pfeiffer described the day as a privilege to be a part of and thanked Yarra Ranges Council’s Healthy Active Ageing team for embracing the idea and helping bring it to life.
“We chose to have a small and quite specific range of exhibitors for our first event so participants could have conversations in a more relaxed setting,” Ms Pfeiffer said.
According to Ms Pfeiffer, the event reflected a broader understanding of healthy ageing.
“Ageing well’ means more than physical health.”
“It’s about staying connected, continuing to learn, having purpose and belonging, sharing knowledge and exploring the wisdom that comes with life experience,” she said.
“Ageing is something to embrace.”
Ms Pfeiffer encouraged people to approach later life in whatever way suited them best.
“Grow older wildly, quietly, creatively, curiously, wisely – whatever suits your style,” she said.
The expo featured Mental Health & Wellbeing Local, Eastern Community Legal Centre, HICCI, Community Gardens Network (Yarra Ranges)
and Caladenia Dementia Care, each providing information on topics ranging from mental health and legal rights to transport, gardening and dementia support.
For U3A Healesville volunteer Lucia, the opportunity for people to browse, ask questions and discover new services made the day especially
worthwhile.
Fellow volunteer Michael was impressed by the strong turnout and collaboration between organisations.
“The hall was buzzing from the moment we opened,” he said.
“Everybody was approachable, positive and
happy. It was a great day.”
Exhibitors also echoed those sentiments.
Staff from Mental Health & Wellbeing Local said they were encouraged by the number of older residents seeking information about available support services, while Eastern Community Legal Centre representatives welcomed the chance to engage directly with community members about their legal rights and options.
Community Gardens Network (Yarra Ranges) volunteers spoke of meaningful conversations sparked throughout the day, including discussions about community gardens, seed sharing and even death and dying, topics often difficult to raise but important to many people planning for the future.
Participant feedback also reflected the event’s success.
According to the participant survey, visitors appreciated having a wide range of local information available in one place and praised the friendly, non-intrusive atmosphere.
Many suggested future conversations on digital inclusion, artificial intelligence, elder advocacy and safer footpaths, while others expressed interest in learning more about housing options for older adults.
Suggestions for future expos included a larger venue to accommodate the growing interest and improve acoustics.
The inaugural Ageing Well Expo demonstrated the value of bringing local organisations and residents together to share knowledge, build connections and encourage conversations that matter.
Organisers hope the event is the first of many, helping create a community where people can embrace ageing with confidence, curiosity and support.
For more information on the U3A organisation, head to their website at healesvilleu3a.org.au
By Gabriella Vukman
After almost two decades of cheerleading and years of dance and vocal training, Yarra Ranges local Indianna Zheniou has found the role she feels she has been preparing for her entire life.
In early May, the performer was cast as chorus in Bring It On: The Musical, a high-energy production that combines competitive cheerleading, dance, singing and acting, allowing Ms Zheniou to showcase every skill she has spent years developing.
“Being a part of Bring It On has made me feel incredibly special,” Ms Zheniou said.
“This experience feels like every part of my performing journey has finally come together.”
After months of uncertainty, making the cast of Bring It On was an unexpected moment for Ms Zheniou.
“I was in a moon boot when I tried out, so I almost knew I wasn’t going to get in because they couldn’t see my potential,” she said.
“I hadn’t done theatre since high school either, and that was over four years ago.”
Ms Zheniou was in Singapore when she received the call telling her she had made the cast.
“It was only a month before we started performing at the National Theatre.”
“I was worried I wouldn’t be able to learn the new tricks and choreography, but everyone was really nice and they helped me through,” she said.
The musical follows talented cheerleader Campbell, whose world is turned upside down after transferring to a new high school, where she discovers that friendship, identity and belonging matter more than winning a championship.
For Ms Zheniou, the show’s themes extend beyond the stage.
“One of the strongest messages in the show is that you should never be afraid to be yourself,” she said.
“It can be easy to feel pressure to fit in or change who you are, but being yourself is what allows you to form genuine connections and discover where you truly belong.”
While audiences see polished performances under bright lights, Ms Zheniou said the months of intensive rehearsals were a lot to take on.
The cast rehearsed several days each week, spending long hours perfecting demanding choreography, vocal training and the show’s cheer routines.
“It has definitely been a big commitment, but everyone has worked so hard because we all love what we are doing,” Ms Zheniou said.
Despite the demands of the production, Ms Zheniou said nothing compares to the feeling of stepping on stage.
“The moment the music begins and the lights come on, I feel an immediate rush of excitement and adrenaline,” she said.
“Any nerves I had before stepping on stage disappear, and I become completely present in the moment.”
“There is genuinely nothing else that makes me feel the same way.”
Upon performing on stage at the National Theatre in St Kilda for the first time, Ms Zheniou said her stomach dropped.
“It was a new experience, seeing as I have always just been in the cheer world.”
“Being on a theatre stage is so different to cheerleading, especially when people are quiet at the beginning of each number.”
“In cheer, everyone is shouting and cheering you on from the beginning.”
According to Ms Zheniou, the atmosphere behind the scenes is just as memorable.
“There is constant excitement as everyone compares costumes, warms up, practices routines and encourages each other before going on stage,” she said.
“It can feel chaotic too, but it’s the most exciting kind of chaos.”
A lifelong member of Outlaws Allstars, Ms Zheniou credits cheerleading for shaping not only her athletic ability but also her character.
“Cheer has been like a second home and a place where I have grown up,” she said.
“It has given me lifelong friendships, unforgettable opportunities and people who have constantly encouraged me to become the best version of myself.”
She believes many of the lessons learned through competitive cheerleading have translated directly to musical theatre.
“In cheerleading, every person matters,” she said.
“A routine only works when everyone trusts each other and performs their role.”
“Being part of a cast is very similar because everyone has to work together, trust one another and bring the same level of energy to every performance.”
Growing up in the Yarra Ranges has also helped shape her outlook as a performer.
Ms Zheniou said despite being so far away
from everything, the area’s supportive community has given her confidence to pursue opportunities while remaining grounded.
“The Yarra Ranges is a place where people genuinely support one another,” she said.
“I am a Lilydale local and I’ve always felt encouraged to chase what I love, and that’s something I’ve been able to bring into this production.”
“Yes it is really hard to access anything from out here, but you just have to make the extra effort.”
As Bring It On prepares to close, Ms Zheniou hopes audiences leave inspired by the show’s uplifting message.
“Everyone has something unique to offer, and nobody should feel like they need to make themselves smaller to fit into someone else’s expectations,” she said.
In terms of pursuing a future in musical theatre, Ms Zheniou said she would have to consider whether continuing cheerleading was realistic alongside her performance ambitions.
Whatever path she chooses, Ms Zheniou said she hopes to continue embracing opportunities that allow her to combine her passion for movement, storytelling and performance.
Bring It On showed at the National Theatre over the month of July, with the last show closing on Sunday 26 July.
By Maria Millers
Our days have become increasingly organised around optimisation.
We count steps, monitor sleep, schedule exercises and work and squeeze efficiency from every spare minute. We live in a culture that encourages us to look for bigger solutions, better systems and more sophisticated ways of improving ourselves.
Even leisure is often expected to be productive and even relaxation becomes something more to perfect rather than enjoy.
Stress often accumulates from the hundreds of tiny demands: unanswered emails, constant notifications, crowded calendars, family pressures and the expectation that we should always be available. We are often left fragmented and looking for help.
And we turn to the burgeoning wellness industry but which also promotes achievement goals
Yet some of the things that support our wellbeing most effectively remain stubbornly ordinary. They are difficult to measure, impossible to optimise and unlikely to generate impressive statistics.
Participating in seemingly unproductive pleasures such as doing jobs around the house or garden, tinkering, reading, observing nature or simply daydreaming is regarded not only unproductive but even eccentric.
The truth is however, that pottering can be deeply satisfying and also productive.
Google’s Oxford Languages defines pottering as occupying oneself in a desultory but pleasant way—desultory meaning without plan or purpose.
The word itself carries faint disapproval, as if aimlessness were a character flaw. Its synonyms—dawdling, frittering, loitering—sound like accusations.
The simple practice of pottering has no purpose and that’s precisely the point. To potter is to move through your day without an agenda.
Perhaps wandering the garden with a mug of tea or coffee, rearranging books on a shelf for no reason and suddenly finding yourself reading a favourite poem you’ve not read in ages. Just doing small aimless things. No goals. No metrics. No outcome to be measured.
It’s the opposite of everything we’ve been trained to value, so it can be an act of rebellion, but it can be one of personal salvation.
Pottering suggests a leisurely, contented pace—doing little jobs simply because you enjoy them, conveying the pleasant idea of being quietly occupied with small, unpressured tasks rather than working toward a specific objective.
In his poem Leisure, W H Davies argues that a life spent rushing misses the richness that’s available in everyday moments.
It’s less about laziness than about making space for noticing.
What is this life if, full of care,
We have no time to stand and stare
Often sadly the hardest thing is tolerating the guilt of doing nothing. We’ve internalised the message so deeply that doing nothing feels like failing.
But pottering also resembles what psychologists call intrinsic motivation: doing something because the activity itself is enjoyable, not because it produces a measurable outcome or external reward. That stands in contrast to a culture that often evaluates activities by their productivity.
So when you’re absorbed in small, low-pressure tasks—watering plants, tidying a shelf, mending something, making tea—your mind often settles into a state that’s neither intensely focused nor completely idle.
Research on attention suggests that these gentler activities can allow the brain to recover from sustained mental effort, while reducing the constant sense of urgency that many people experience.
This may explain why some of our best ideas come to us when we are least expecting them and when we are away from desks and devices: whether in the smallest room in the house or in the shower or raking the leaves or hanging out the washing.
But an afternoon of pottering will never appear on a productivity report. There is no score to compare and no achievement unlocked.
Perhaps that is exactly why it matters.
Pottering is finding contentment. Not just in ordinary everyday activities but also in pausing from working to nurture friendship and human connection, as in Robert Frost’s A Time to Talk:
When a friend calls to me from the road
And slows his horse to a meaning walk, I don’t stand still and look around
On all the hills I haven’t hoed,
And shout from where I am, “What is it?”
No, not as there is a time to talk.
I thrust my hoe in the mellow ground, Blade-end up and five feet tall, And plod: I go up to the stone wall
For a friendly visit.
So pottering quietly challenges the assumption that every moment should be optimised. It suggests that a meaningful life isn’t built only from major achievements but also from caring for everyday things, noticing beauty, and allowing time for activities that don’t need justification.
The important things in life are in front of us every day: simple, awesome, little and fulfilling things waiting for us to look at them.
So rather than asking what did you accomplish today? Maybe we could ask, what did you notice today?
Billy Collins is perhaps the poet of pleasant pottering.
Many of his poems wander through ordinary mornings, cups of tea, bookshelves, gardens, and quiet domestic moments without needing dramatic conclusions.
Poems may begin with making coffee, reading, sitting at a table, or watching the morning unfold.
The pleasure comes from his curiosity about ordinary life.
As in Morning where, obviously a morning person, he asks: Why do we bother with the rest of the day? And proceeds to tell us how fortified with an expresso and a palmful of vitamins he prepares for the day, aware of the beauty of nature outside his windows.
dictionary and atlas open on the rug, the typewriter waiting for the key of the head, a cello on the radio, and, if necessary, the windows— trees fifty, a hundred years old out there, heavy clouds on the way
and the lawn steaming like a horse in the early morning.
Sometimes the objects that surround us in our homes are left unappreciated in how they affect our lives.
Patricia Schneider’s The Patience of Ordinary Things is almost a manifesto for everyday contentment. It suggests that ordinary objects quietly hold the world together while we hurry past them:
I’ve been thinking about the patience Of ordinary things, how clothes Wait respectfully in closets
And soap dries quietly in the dish, And towels drink the wet
From the skin of the back.
And the lovely repetition of stairs. And what is more generous than a window. But it’s also the domestic, the everyday mundane that can be a source of enjoyment for days of pottering.
Jane Kenyon’s poems find dignity in washing dishes, gardening, folding laundry, and simply living through the day.
She makes the domestic feel profound without exaggerating it. And in In and Out dog lovers would respond to the comforting therapeutic ministering by a pet dog aware of her needing comfort.
In and Out
The dog searches until he finds me
Upstairs, lies down with a clatter of elbows, puts his head on my foot.
Sometimes the sound of his breathing saves my life—in and out in.
Pottering might remind you of something you’ve forgotten: that you’re not a machine to be optimised, that your worth is not measured in output and that sometimes the most radical thing you can do is wander into the garden with a cup of tea and do absolutely nothing at all.
Big News from Woorilla
To celebrate Poetry Month, Woorilla Poetry Prize invites you to our first-ever Ekphrastic Poetry event.
Join poet John Sheills in conversation with Maria Millers from Woorilla as they explore the rich and fascinating tradition of the ekphrastic poem—poetry inspired by visual art—and unveil an exciting new category for the Woorilla Poetry Prize 2027. Registration is free.
It takes place on Sunday 2 August at 2pm at the Gemco Theatre, Emerald.
Visitors to Yarra Ranges Regional Museum are invited to step into the world’s oldest and most fragile ecosystems through Gondwana VR, a powerful virtual reality experience presented as part of the 2026 Burrinja Climate Change Biennale.
The significance of Gondwana VR resonates deeply within the Yarra Ranges, drawing parallels between the globally significant Daintree Rainforest and our own locally cherished and unique flora, fauna and ecosystems.
“By presenting a global story through a local lens, Gondwana VR encourages reflection on our shared responsibility to protect these irreplaceable natural environments,” Museum Director Megan Sheehy said.
Both environs, home to ancient plant species and rich biodiversity, and face increasing threats from a changing climate.
Developed by artists Emma Roberts and Ben Joseph Andrews, Gondwana VR transports audiences into the Daintree Rainforest on Kuku Yalanji Country in Far North Queensland.
“The speculative, procedurally degenerative nature of Gondwana acknowledges that we do not know exactly which way things might unfold, data changes, models are updated,” the artists said.
“But one thing is for sure: if we do not act, and act with urgency, we stand to lose something magical, something ancient, something irreplaceable.”
Through this interactive and evolving digital landscape, users can explore a rich environment of towering trees, rugged mountains and idyllic coastlines, while confronting the stark realities of climate change.
Each experience within Gondwana VR is unique and unrepeatable. As audiences navigate the vast virtual environment, the forest visibly degrades, reflecting climate data projections through to the year 2090.
In a hopeful counterpoint, the more time spent within the experience, the stronger and
The virtual reality experience is presented as part of the 2026 Burrinja
more resilient the digital rainforest becomes, highlighting the critical role people play in shaping environmental outcomes.
The exhibition opened on Wednesday 15 July and remains at the Museum until Sunday 1 November.
There are two scheduled events throughout the course of the exhibition.
Gain deeper insight into Gondwana VR in
a special floortalk with new media artist and creator Ben Joseph Andrews, alongside sonic artist Erin K Taylor, who designed the exhibition’s immersive soundscape. This session provides a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of this award-winning durational experience. It will be hosted on Saturday 25 July from 11am to 12pm.
The Museum’s night of nights returns for
2026 with an evening of entertainment, creativity and exploration. Dance to the beats of DJ Pebbles from RRR, create something magical with the Trash Puppets, enjoy presentations from special guests, browse interactive popups, and experience the exhibition after hours. Museum After Dark: Creatures of the Night is scheduled for Friday 28 August from 6pm to 9pm.
By Joy Gothe
What do horse thieves, illegal gamblers and a foulmouthed magpie have in common? They have all appeared at Lilydale’s old courthouse, which this year celebrates its 150th birthday.
When the courthouse opened in 1876, Lilydale marked Melbourne’s wild eastern edge. Bushmen, farmers, new settlers and gold prospectors on their way to Woods Point all crossed paths here, and the courtroom became the stage where the district’s most colourful stories unfolded.
The days when the Court was in session was the social media of their day. There were no phones or Facebook, so locals wandered past to see who was waiting outside before eagerly sharing the latest gossip. Drunken brawls, horse theft, school truancy, wandering livestock and neighbourhood squabbles kept the magistrates busy and gave everyone else something to talk about.
The courthouse certainly saw its share of colourful characters and one case that has become pure Lilydale legend belongs to Jack Dallas’s pet magpie, “Gentle Maggie”. She had mastered some remarkably colourful swearing and offended so many respectable citizens that the bird was summoned before the court for using obscene language. Faced with a legal system that hadn’t anticipated criminal magpies, the Magistrate sentenced poor Gentle Maggie to immediate execution. Whether fact or folklore the story has been retold around Lilydale for generations.
The 1940s also saw, members of the local “Bull-
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, high energy adventure you won’t want to miss.
• Season: 6 - 29 August. Bookings: 9758 3964. Burrinja Theatre Lior with String Quartet.
frog Gang” appearing before the Magistrate for running illegal Two-Up games behind the Olinda Hotel.
For well over a century, the courthouse heard Petty Sessions, Magistrates’ Court and Children’s Court matters until it finally closed in September 2000. In the same year the Lilydale Primary School moved in with their music and arts classes, but unfortunately a fire at the rear of the building rendered it unusable just weeks later.
Fortunately, the story didn’t end there. The Shire of Yarra Ranges purchased and renovated the building in 2005, it briefly served as a temporary Museum before a dedicated campaign. by determined local volunteers secured it for their purpose, and in 2011 the Lilydale & District Historical Society became the lead tenant, sharing the building with Yarra Ranges U3A.
Recognised by the National Trust in 1970 and added to the Register of the National Estate in 1978, the courthouse remains one of Lilydale’s most treasured landmarks and is no longer regarded as just a relic of the past. It now seems only fitting that the district’s oldest Historical Society calls the region’s oldest civic building home — where 150 years of justice, drama, gossip and yes, maybe even the occasional bad-tempered bird continue to keep Lilydale’s history very much alive.
If you are interested in discovering more stories about the history of Lilydale visit our Website at lilydalehistorical.com.au or think about becoming a volunteer.
Join us for a warm and elegant evening with Australian singer-songwriter Lior.
Burrinja is looking forward to welcoming Lior back for his special one-off performance, where he is joined by a string quartet to share imagined selections from his celebrated back catalogue.
• Season: Friday, 24 July at 8pm.
Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
A Musical comedy
Laurence Jameson makes his living by taking rich ladies out of their money. Teddy Benson swindles women with fabricated stories about his grandmother’s failing health. After meeting on a train,
Animal Farm and Citizen Vigilante PG/Unclassified 2.5/5, 1.5/5
Last week, I reviewed one of the best films of the year so far (The Odyssey), and now we’re looking at the two worst films of the year.
Directed by Gollum himself Andy Serkis, Animal Farm is a loud, obnoxious children’s movie with decent animation and some cute or funny moments (Gaten Matarazzo is sweet as the new protagonist Lucky), but more importantly it’s a desecration of George Orwell’s 1945 novel. Serkis’s Animal Farm races through the plot, neuters much of the drama and obfuscates the commentary with a new corporate antagonist, when the novel was always about communism. Animal Farm is Orwell’s allegorical condemnation of Stalinism, and while the porcine Stalin stand-in Napoleon (here voiced by Seth Rogen) is still the main villain, making him a funny badboy kiddies will want to quote is a mindbogglingly terrible choice.
If Animal Farm is an extremely poorlyjudged adaptation, Citizen Vigilante is both offensive and incompetent.
Citizen Vigilante is the latest film from Uwe Boll, a German filmmaker infamous for a slew of terrible movies based on video games, exploiting a tax loophole to profit off
his flops and coming to literal blows with his harshest critics.
Citizen Vigilante was widely condemned as virulent anti-immigration propaganda, but it’s also a boring, badly-made movie. The film suffers from listless pacing, scatterbrained editing, flat camerawork and bland, fleeting action, and several scenes intended to ramp up tension turn out almost laughably monotonous. Armie Hammer is intense as the title vigilante Michael Sanders, a lowrent Punisher crossed with Patrick Bateman, but he has so little to do until he indefensibly murders an entire family in the third act.
Animal Farm has a limited Australian cinema release and Citizen Vigilante is floating around online, but I would avoid both like the plague.
- Seth Lukas Hynes
they attempt to work together only to find that this small French town isn’t big enough for the two of them.
They agree on a settlement: the first one to extract $50,000 from a young female heiress, Christine Vogate, wins, and the other must leave town.
A hilarious battle of the conmen ensues… and with music.
• Season: 10 - 25 September. The Round Arterial
Arterial is a moving acrobatic performance linking people, Country and culture, where unseen bonds between the body and the land become beautifully.
This award-winning Na Djinang Circus performance explores the ancient connections tying First Nations peoples together, strong through bloodlines but irreparably damaged through colonisation.
Four performers connect with each other physically and spiritually in a display of breathtaking acrobatics with striking visual techniques
and a score by avant-garde sound designer Danni Esposito.
Arterial will excite and move you as the performers celebrate what it means to be First Peoples- the lifeblood of this country, the land and its beating heart.
• Season: Saturday 25 July at 8pm.
Karralyka Theatre
Tell Mama! Karise Eden sings Janis Joplin
Shooting to fame at just 19 with her unforgettable viral audition on The Voice Australia, Karise went on to win the very first season and has become one of the country’s most distinctive voices, earning two ARIA Awards, gold and platinum records and multiple Top 5 chart positions.
After a raving debut at Memo Music Hall in 2026, Karise returns to the stage by popular demand, bringing her Janis-inspired Aniss songbook to Karralyka in 2026.
A powerhouse vocalist often compared to Adele and Amy Whitehouse, she can blow your mind one minute with her raw intensity and move you the next with her soulful vulnerability.
• Season: Friday 7 August at 8.30pm.
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 Drench (4)
3 Whatever the risks may be (2,3,5)
10 Dabbler (7)
11 Worry (7)
12 Aesthetically pleasing (8)
13 Inexpensive (5)
14 Writer of verse (4)
15 Optical instrument (10)
18 US motorway system (10)
20 Domestic animals (4)
21 Educate (5)
23 Speed (8)
26 Permitted (7)
27 Word made from the letters of another (7)
28 Cut off from the sea (10)
29 Shoot (4)
No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in 's'.
DOWN
1 Graceful bird (4)
2 Awe (9)
4 Person who uses violence for political aims (9)
5 Overdrafts (5)
6 Options (7)
7 Show amusement (5)
8 Suffering from insomnia (9)
9 Tidings (4)
14 Colourful team shooting sport (9)
16 Make reprisals (9)
17 Removed from power (9)
19 Act of refreshing (7)
22 UK singer Lily – (5)
23 Early form of Sanskrit (5)
24 Cousin of the oyster (4)
25 Self-satisfied (4)
3
SET across an extraordinary 11-acre estate, this magnificent American Ranch-inspired residence delivers an exceptional blend of timeless elegance, outstanding craftsmanship and resort-style living. Privately positioned behind impressive stone and wrought iron entrance gates, a sweeping, circular sealed driveway winds through impeccably landscaped gardens, where a striking three-tiered fountain creates an unforgettable arrival.
Beyond the grand foyer, the home reveals an impressive floorplan designed for both luxurious family living and spectacular entertaining. The gourmet kitchen is beautifully appointed with granite benchtops, premium cabinetry with glass display cupboards, and a fully equipped walk-in pantry. Formal and informal dining areas flow effortlessly from the kitchen, while a private theatre room or formal lounge provides a refined space to unwind.
A breathtaking staircase forms the centrepiece of the home, overlooking expansive open-plan living spaces. Towering ceilings with exposed timber beams enhance the sense of scale, while the impressive family and games room is anchored by a magnificent stone fireplace. A fully plumbed bar, adjoining powder room, dedicated home office and wine cellar further elevate the home’s entertaining credentials.
Upstairs, four oversized bedrooms provide luxurious accommodation, highlighted by an indulgent main suite complete with a spacious walk-in robe and an elegant ensuite. The remaining bedrooms feature built-in robes and are serviced by a beautifully appointed family bathroom.
Throughout the home, quality is evident at every turn, with polished hardwood floors, double-glazed windows, hydronic gas heating, split system heating and cooling, ducted vacuum and premium finishes showcasing an uncompromising commitment to excellence. Outside, the estate continues to impress with a substantial 25m x 10m shed incorporating 2 rooms, a workshop space, high bay access and a loft-style apartment, ideal for extended family, guest accommodation or a premium work-from-home space. A large barn, woodshed, expansive water storage, fenced paddocks and a picturesque dam complete with water lilies, a timber bridge, a built in BBQ and a charming rotunda complete this idyllic country setting.
Offering the ultimate balance of luxury, privacy and lifestyle across 11 magnificent acres, this is a landmark property of exceptional calibre. Rarely does a residence of this scale, presence and quality become available, presenting an extraordinary opportunity to secure one of the region’s finest lifestyle estates.
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. ●
SET on a beautifully level 924m² (approx.) allotment in one of Monbulk’s most sought after locations, this inviting family home delivers the perfect combination of space, comfort and convenience, just moments from the township’s schools, cafes, shops, parks and all the amenities that make Monbulk such a wonderful place to call home.
Designed with effortless family living in mind, the home offers four generous bedrooms and a spacious, well appointed kitchen that forms the heart of the home. The light filled living and dining spaces flow seamlessly through striking bi-fold doors to an expansive outdoor entertaining area, creating the ideal setting for weekend barbecues, family celebrations or simply relaxing while enjoying the peaceful surrounds.
The generous, sun drenched backyard provides endless space for children and pets to play, while established vegetable gardens offer the opportunity to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. A single garage with adjoining workshop adds valuable flexibility for tradies, hobbyists or those requiring additional storage.
Comfort is assured throughout the seasons with ducted heating complemented by a split system heating and cooling unit, ensuring a comfortable environment all year round.
Whether you’re searching for your forever family home, a smart investment or the lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of, this outstanding property delivers exceptional value in an unbeatable location.
Property Highlights:
• Flat, sunny 924m² (approx.) allotment
• Four spacious bedrooms
• Large family kitchen overlooking the living and dining areas
Bi-fold doors opening to a superb outdoor entertaining space
• Single garage with adjoining workshop
• Established vegetable gardens
• Ducted heating throughout plus split system heating and cooling
• Outstanding location within easy walking distance of Monbulk’s shops, cafes, schools and public transport
A home that offers space to grow, room to entertain and a location to love, this is an exceptional opportunity not to be missed. ●
WHETHER you’re stepping into the market for the first time, upgrading your lifestyle or searching for a smart investment, this stylish three bedroom home delivers the perfect blend of comfort, space and low maintenance living.
Privately positioned in a quiet complex of just four, this light filled home stands out with its open plan design, generous courtyard and covered alfresco area that is ideal for weekend BBQs, entertaining friends or simply unwinding outdoors.
The modern kitchen features stainless steel appliances, a dishwasher, and plenty of bench and cupboard space, flowing effortlessly into the spacious living and dining areas for easy everyday living.
All three bedrooms are generously sized, with the main bedroom enjoying convenient access to the two way bathroom complete with both a bath and separate shower plus toilet. There is also a second toilet, separate to the bathroom for added privacy and convenience. A split system plus ducted heating throughout keeps the home comfortable year round, while the remote double garage with internal access and a spacious laundry add extra practicality to busy lifestyles.
Set within a quiet, well maintained complex, you’ll love the convenience of having Kent Park Primary School, R.D. Egan Lee Reserve, Knoxfield Shops, cafes, restaurants and takeaway options all just moments away. Move straight in, make it your own, and enjoy the easy lifestyle this fantastic home has to offer. ●
SET on a picturesque and private small acreage paradise on just over 8 glorious acres, this property has something for everyone.
With over 8 acres to explore and enjoy you’re spoilt for choice - numerous fenced paddocks offer plenty of space for the horses, motorbikes or even a few cows and sheep.
The rustic country farmhouse oozes charm and character boasting 4 bedrooms including an ensuite and walk in robe in the main bedroom.
Separate family and living areas give the growing family plenty of space to spread out.
The kitchen area is superb with quality appliances and ample bench and cupboard space including a butlers pantry.
Head outdoors and the acreage lifestyle starts here! Huge shedding with covered high clearance truck parking and lock up garage/workshop, plus a separate open machinery shedding for floats, boats, caravans and farm equipment. Numerous well established fruit trees and decades old flowering trees, shrubs and roses.
Outdoor entertaining with covered verandas and decking, and the kids will love the pool and the wide open space to run around and enjoy!
For extra weekend guests, dependent family, teenagers or relatives, the separate 1 bedroom bungalow is the ideal accommodation solution.
A fantastic property in every aspect and beautifully presented inside and out with nothing to do but sit back relax and enjoy the quiet, peaceful semi rural lifestyle - it’s a great place to call home.
YarraValleyLivingonapprox.30GloriousAcres
YarraValleyacreagelivingatit’sbest,astunninglocationandanexceptionalpropertyinallaspects offeringtheidealrelaxedsemirurallifestyle.Thewarmcountryhomeboastsperiodcharmwith moderncomfortoffering4largebedroomsallwithbuiltinrobesincludingawalkinrobeandensuite inthemainbedroom.Thekitcheniswellappointedwithqualityappliancesandplentyofbench andcupboardspace,entertaininstyleallyearroundwithahugeundercoverentertainingarea overlookingthesprawlingacreageandpanoramicvista.Headoutsideandyouarespoiltforchoice withapprox.30gloriousacrestoenjoyandexplore,forthehorseenthusiasttherearemultiplefenced paddocks,stables,roundyard,hayshedandcattleyards,loadsofextrasheddingtosuitlarge trailers,trucks,floatsandcaravans.Aspectacularpropertywithpremiumfacilities.
ComeHometoSerenityandNatureonover9acres
Setonapprox.9.1acres,(3.69ha)thefamilyhomeisthoughtfullypositioned,framedbyopen paddockstothefrontandrear,creatinganexceptionallevelofprivacy.Inside,thehomefeatures amodernkitchenwithgenerousbenchspace,electricoven,andawelldesignedbutler´spantry. Threewell-proportionedbedrooms,allwithbuilt-inrobes,enjoyingpeacefulviewsacrossthe surroundingforestandpaddocks.Alargemodernbathroom,andthebonusofanadditionaltoilet offthelaundryaddspracticalityforfamilyliving.Outdoorlivingisastandout,withthefrontdeck capturingsweepingviewsacrossopenlandandtreetopsperfectforquietmorningsorsunset relaxation.Completingthepropertyisalargepoweredshedofferingamplespaceforvehicles, storage,andrecreationalequipment,alongwithwatertanksandestablishedvegetablegardens.
RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068
Situatedonjustover10picturesqueacreswithamixtureofundulatingpastureandscattered bushit’stheidealspotcomeandlivetherelaxedcountrylife.Thehomeissuperbandjustafew yearsoldoffersthegrowingfamilyafantasticsemirurallifestylewithselfsustainableoffgridliving withalternativesolarpower.Beautifullypresentedandoffering3bedroomswithaluxuriousmain bathroomandensuiteinthemainbedroom,thekitchenisstunning,lightandbrightwithquality appliancesandfixturesthroughoutwithamplebenchandcupboardspace.Welcometheoutdoors inwiththemainliving/loungeareasperfectlysituatedtositback,relaxandenjoytheeverchanging YarraValleyvista.Immerseyourselfintheoutdoorswithestablishedgardensandloadsofspacefor thekidsandpetstoexploreandenjoy,afantasticsmallacreagepropertyinabeautifullocation.
Offeringamultitudeofpossibilitiesandpotentialwitharound25to30acresofpasture,withthe remainderbeingscatteredbushandtrees.Thesubstantialfamilyhomeispresentedtoperfection andwillaccommodatethelargestoffamilies.Consistingof6bedrooms,4withbuiltinrobes,2with walkinrobesand2withensuites-plusamainbathroom.Plentyofspaceforthegrowingfamilywith alargeloungeroom,familyroomandlivingroom.Agreatsizekitchen,wellappointedandwith qualityappliancesandamplebenchspace.Thislargeacreagelifestylepropertyisperfectforthe naturelovingfamilywith4separatedams,biglockupcolourbondgarage(approx13mx8m),fresh craysandtrout,aspringfedcreek,cattleyardsandresidentplatypusandkoalas!
IT’S not often a home comes along that offers the best of both worlds — a beautifully finished, modern residence paired with a genuinely usable 3,321sqm (approx.) block in one of the hills’ most peaceful settings.
Tucked away in a quiet no-through road, this exceptional property delivers the space, privacy, and lifestyle that so many buyers dream of, without the compromise of an outdated home.
Only three years old, this thoughtfully designed residence feels like a true escape from the everyday. From the moment you step inside, polished concrete floors, soaring high ceilings, and an abundance of natural light create an immediate sense of quality and sophistication.
Designed for families who love to live, entertain, and unwind, the home offers an impressive three separate living areas plus a dedicated multi-purpose room and study. Whether it’s movie nights, a quiet workspace, a kids’ retreat, or entertaining guests, there is a space for every occasion.
The heart of the home is undeniably the designer kitchen — a statement piece featuring an oversized Caesarstone island bench, butler’s pantry, and premium 900mm oven. Flowing effortlessly into the open-plan living and dining zone, the home extends outdoors to the expansive undercover deck, creating the perfect setting for relaxed gatherings surrounded by the tranquillity of the hills.
Accommodation is equally impressive, with four generous bedrooms including a privately positioned master suite complete with a luxurious ensuite featuring double vanity, oversized shower, and quality finishes. A stylish central bathroom services the remaining bedrooms, ensuring comfort for the entire family.
Beyond the home, the property truly sets itself apart. A flat, usable block of this size with a near-new residence is an incredibly rare offering in the hills. With ample parking, a remote double garage, solar-boosted hot water system, and plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors, this is a property designed to grow with you.
Enjoy the serenity of a quiet location while being moments from the natural beauty of Emerald Lake Park and everything the surrounding hills lifestyle has to offer.
A home of this calibre, on land this usable, in a location this peaceful — opportunities like this simply don’t come around often.
**Closing Date 11th August at 4pm (Unless Sold Prior)** ●
Only9yearsoldwitha7-starrating,thisgenerouslyproportionedhomehasroomtomove andfabulousviewstothebayandbeyond,sittinginaquietsetting.Featuresinclude hugelivingspaces,superbchefs’kitchenwithstoneisland,spaciousbutler’spantry& pr ss dtinsplashback,highc ilings,plantationshutt rs,walnutflooring,GDH&gaslog fir .12.7kw-33Max onsolarpan lswith10kwbatt ryinv rt r.Canaccommodat 6 bedrooms,multi-generational/workfromhomeoptionwithseparateaccess.
JanetHawkins 0409117432
JanBrewster 0409558805
PRESTIGIOUSWAVERLEYPARKESTATELOCATION
***AUCTION–SATURDAY15THAUGUST11AM(UnlessSoldPrior)***
Thisimpeccablypresentedresidencedeliversanexceptionalblendofstyle,comfort andlow-maintenanceliving.Recentlyrefreshedwithbrand-newcarpet&flooringand afreshcoatofpaintthroughout.Thehomeoffersamove-in-readylifestylewithnothing lefttodoandfeaturesanexpansiveopen-planliving,contemporarykitchenwithgranite benchtops,spaciousmastersuite,doublegarageandalowmaintenancecourtyard.
MickDolphin 0429684522
JacksonAcott 0494142438
JanBrewster 0409558805 SPACIOUSFAMILYHOMEONOVERANACRE
Privatelypositionedattheendofaquietgroveaccessedviaelectricgates,this exceptionalarchitecturalresidenceofferstheperfectbalanceofcontemporaryluxury, WesternPortBayviews,on3718sqm(1acreapprox.)Recentlyrenovatedthehome showcasesqualityfixtures&fittings,flexiblefloorplan,multiplelivingzones,soaring cathedralceilings,expansivedouble-glazedwindows,parquetryflooring,automated blinds,atranquilcentralcourtyard&beautifullylandscapedgardenstonameafew.
PEACEFULHILLSSETTING
**ClosingDate11thAugust@4pm(UnlessSoldPrior)** Abea tif llyfinished,3-year- ldm dernresidencepairedwithagen inely sable 3,321sqm(appr x.)bl ckin ne fthehills’m stpeacef lsettingsinaq ietn -thr gh r ad,thisexcepti nalpr pertydeliversspace,privacy&lifestyle.Feat ringp lished c ncretefl rs,s aringhighceilings,anab ndance fnat rallight,threeseparateliving areas,ast dy,designerkitchenwithb tler’spantry,andanexpansive nderc verdeck.
CaitiEllis 0493136937
MickDolphin 0429684522
By Gabriella Vukman
Yarra Glen captain Austin Aussie Smith is taking his place in the record books with gratitude, humility and a focus on what comes next.
Smith shattered the all-time Premier Data disposals record on Saturday 18 July, collecting an extraordinary 83 disposals in the River Pigs’ 207-point victory over Powelltown in Outer East Football Netball Division One.
The remarkable performance came just one week after Smith amassed 72 disposals against Yarra Junction, with the 28-year-old now recording a whopping 155 possessions across two games.
Despite the history-making feat, Smith said it wasn’t until after Saturday’s game that he realised he may be close to breaking the record mark.
“I didn’t think about it during the game too much,” he said.
“I did feel like I had more disposals than the week before, which just felt like another game really, but I wasn’t expecting to break the record.”
As Yarra Glen’s on-field leader, Smith said his focus never shifts from helping his teammates.
“On the field, I was just thinking about being the best captain and the best player I could be in the moment,” he said.
While the possibility of breaking the record became a talking point among teammates after the siren, it wasn’t until the stats were released on Monday, that Smith truly knew he had broken the record.
“After the game we joked about it a little bit, and said it would be pretty cool,” Smith said.
“I’m not going to lie, I was pretty happy when I saw the stats come out Monday afternoon.”
The record-breaking performance has attracted attention from across the football community, with Mr Smith featuring on radio and football programs since the achievement.
“I’ve been contacted by a few different people all around the place,” he said.
“I’ve been contacted by Triple M, had a few features here and there on different footy shows and different leagues, and even the Agenda Setters on Wednesday night.
“It’s all been pretty unreal, to be honest.”
While the overwhelming response has been positive, Smith said he has also seen criticism online but chooses not to dwell on it.
“You deal with some comments that you’ve just got to laugh at at the end of the day,” he said.
“I just have a good laugh at some of the hate comments.”
Rather than chasing even bigger dispos-
al numbers over the final rounds of the season, Smith insists his priorities remain firmly team-focused.
“I just want to keep playing my role, keep playing good, consistent footy and being a good captain for my teammates as we’re pushing for a finals campaign,” he said.
“That’s the bigger picture.”
“We all want to compete for a flag, so that’s all
I’m really focused on at the moment.”
Smith was also quick to credit those around him for making the achievement possible.
“I wouldn’t have been able to do it without the support of my coach, Jace, or the boys or people around the club,” he said.
“I’m just a beneficiary of everyone else’s hard work on the field as well.”
Smith’s record-breaking display included 44
kicks, 39 handballs and four goals, surpassing the previous Premier Data disposals record of 81. Combined with his 72-possession effort the previous week, the Yarra Glen skipper has produced one of the most prolific two-game stretches seen in community football.
With the River Pigs firmly in the finals hunt, Smith is still hoping the most memorable moments of the season are still to come.
By Callum Ludwig
The Eastern Football Netball League (EFNL) and Outer East Football Netball League (OEFN) have officially announced the ‘landmark commitment’ to a merged competition in the coming years.
Depending on club movements, which have already started to shape up as the merger was explored, the move would see the combined league rival the VAFA for the most member clubs in the country.
Officer has already announced it will seek to move to the Southern Football Netball League for the 2027 season.
“This is a rare opportunity to build something stronger for community football and netball across Melbourne’s east,” EFNL chair Paul Barlow said.
“By coming together, we can protect what makes our clubs special while creating a more sustainable competition for the players, coaches, umpires and volunteers who give so much to local sport.”
While the MoU is not legally binding, it reflects a strong commitment from both organisations to work collaboratively and in good faith towards a potential merger, with a target to launch a unified competition from 2028.
“Our clubs are the heart of their communities, and they deserve a competition built to last,” OEFN chair Mark Sargent said.
“A unified league enables us align pathways, share resources and invest in the future of the game, from juniors through to our veterans, while driving participation growth and creating more opportunities for men, women, boys and girls across football, netball and umpiring.”
Sargent and Barlow featured in a series of videos were released on Thursday night answering common questions about the merger.
“There are a number of things that are happening in football right now that are constant right throughout Victoria…and we felt that it has become time we needed to address some of those issues to support sustainability and growth into the future,” Sargent said.
“Paul and I have been talking now for probably 12 months, along with our CEOs, Jy Bond and Brett Connell, into how we can create a better feast of opportunities for all our representatives, all our players, all our coaches and all our clubs.
“Our product is based on probably the country football model and the EFNL is very much on the metro football model, and the country model has changed, places like Mount Evelyn, Pakenham and Officer were country, and they are now metro
clubs.”
The OEFN celebrated 60 years in 2026, including its long history as the Yarra Valley and Mountain District Football Netball League.
Barlow said the Outer East does some things that they don’t do and does them well and there’s things the EFNL does well.
“I think from the EFNL perspective, we’re always looking to get stronger, we want to be better, we want to be a strong leader for our clubs, we want to provide opportunity for clubs to find a level where they can thrive, where they can build,” he said.
“We cover a big wide area now, we span from Balwyn out to Berwick and Beaconsfield, I was at Coldstream on the weekend so I think the demo-
graphic has certainly changed, we see challenges in different pockets.
“This gives us an opportunity to give clubs choice, choice of where they want to play, how they want to play, the competitions that they want to play… this isn’t about retrofitting Outer East into the EFNL.”
The topic of same-day Saturday netball arose, given the OEFN’s long history of hosting sameday, same-ground Saturday netball alongside the football. The EFNL’s netball competition is currently held on Friday nights at the Knox Regional Netball Centre, the HE Parker Courts in Heathmont, Melba College in Croydon, Oxley College in Chirnside Park and the Oakleigh Recreation Centre.
Sargent said the Saturday netball is a strength they bring to the party and something that some EFNL clubs might want to be a part of and some OEFN clubs might not want anymore.
“I love going to our games to see mum, dad, brother, sister, auntie out there all playing football and netball on the same day at the same venue,” he said.
Barlow said the netball has been a fantastic addition to the competition’s long-standing football clubs and it is growing every year.
“Would we love to have it on a Saturday at the same ground as our football… yes, but unfortunately the infrastructure is not there from a metropolitan perspective and it’s probably a stretch too far to think that it will be there,” he said.
“Today the Outer East clubs don’t have a choice and our clubs don’t have a choice… under the one management we can then facilitate more choice for clubs to be able to find the balance that fits best for them.
“Overall, we want to be the strongest football netball competition in Victoria and probably Australia given the size we will be.”
By Callum Ludwig
Woori Yallock’s young starlet Archie Spencer has continued his meteoric rise among the best footy prospects in the country following the conclusion the 2026 Marsh AFL U18s Boys National Championships.
Spencer was named in the back pocket of the All-Australian side following his performances for the undefeated Vic Metro.
Spencer said it was awesome to be named All-Australian, especially being out of his preferred position.
“It shows recruiters that I’m not just a one-dimensional player,” he said.
“I didn’t think much of the selection until after the actual championships, and it was a bit of a surprise, but I was happy with the way I defended throughout the carnival, and I’m happy it got noticed by others as well.”
“I feel my one-v-one efforts in the carnival were what stood out the most, as well as my run off half-back in the first game, having won by so much every game, it was a struggle to actually get my hands on the ball, so I tried to be as good at my one-v-ones as I could and not give my forward an inch.”
Vic Metro swept the carnival with a game in hand and were able to celebrate in style with a thumping victory over rivals Vic Country in the final match, which finished 20.11 (131) to 5.9 (39).
Spencer said it was amazing to be a part of and the team being such a strong group of players gave him the potential to be better himself.
“The biggest strength for us as a group would be our mateship and unselfishness; we were such a tight and connected group, which influenced our input for one another on game day, working for each other and always playing to benefit the team rather than yourself,” he said.
“My favourite game would be against South Australia; playing at Marvel Stadium was a childhood dream come true.
“What playing in this team during the championships taught me is that there’s no point playing for yourself; do your best to play for your teammates and to win the game, and through that you will play better yourself, as well as influence your teammates to do the same.”
Arguably Spencer’s best game of the cham-
pionships came in their first game against Western Australia where he racked up 25 disposals of which all but one were deemed effective, nine marks, three inside 50s and three rebound 50s from the backline.
Spencer was one of an astonishing 10 Vic
Ranges/Vic Metro coach Lauren Morecroft were also selected.
By Oliver Winn
A boxer from the Yarra Valley will go head-tohead with skilled fighters across the world next month in what will be his biggest fight yet.
Hayden “H-Bomb” Wright will look to claim the World Masters Heavyweight Champion Title in New South Wales on 8 August.
The current World Boxing Foundation (WBF) Heavyweight Champion of Victoria, Mr Wright said he was keen to prove himself on the world stage.
“The title recognition, being number one. It’s called getting your flowers - I haven’t always won them all but I’ve always done my best, and this fight means that’s finally paid off,” he said.
The fighter originally slated for the championship fight suffered an injury, giving Mr Wright the opportunity as the next ranked boxer.
He will take on Tevita “Vave” at the Richmond Race Track.
But, the last minute call meant he only has two weeks to prepare for the big fight.
“It’s not ideal having two weeks’ notice, usually you would have eight weeks. But I think I’ve earned it.
“Given the short window of two weeks, everything’s crammed, tightly done around my work, around my community commitments, but I think I’m just going to go for it and train my best.”
With a “good jab and a big right hand” , Mr Wright is a pressure fighter who closes space quickly to take advantage of his smaller size.
“The boxers are taller, fitter, longer, muscly and more athletic, but I use that to my advantage. I’m in their chest area where they don’t like it, so I tend to be always coming forward.”
Mr Wright, who also runs the Coldstream Boxing Club and works as a disability support worker,
said he was “nervous but excited” to take on the challenge.
“I’ve been boxing a long time, I’m probably a bit nervous than I’ve been in the last few years, given what’s at stake, the level of the competition.”
But, the Yarra Valley born-and-raised boxer was determined to bring home the title and make his local community proud.
“I suppose it’s representing a local underdog story. By bringing home the title, I’m showing the kids who they can be, what can be done, and what they can achieve.
“I grew up in Wandin. I’m from here, my family’s from here, I work here in the community, I coach kids for free in the gym for the last 10 years.”
A true underdog story, Mr Wright’s appear-
ance doesn’t match what one stereotypically associates with boxing.
He said he wasn’t the “big guy with muscles and tattoos” – rather, his “regular guy” appearance shows off his level-headed nature.
“It’s not every day someone like me is a world champion boxer. Being grassrooted, level-headed, a regular guy who’s pretty grounded, and the work I do in disability and youth work.”
He said that is why he boxes in the first place, as he wanted to inspire those he supports through his work.
“I suppose it’s always attached to giving back to the community and kids, showing them that boxing can be a tool.”
“It’s a big cliche, but you know, boxing saves lives. It definitely saved my life after I started boxing training at 15.”
In the end, Mr Wright was proud to simply be competing on the world stage, regardless of the result.
“Even being eligible, that’s not something everybody gets to do.”
“I don’t get discouraged. I just keep on trying. I’ve been knocked down, but I’m always getting up.”
By Alex Woods
On the weekend, we ventured over to Monbulk for the TAC Road Safety Round. This round is all about ‘Being the Difference’ and starting conversations around road safety. This year’s Road Safety Round will spotlight speeding, which is a contributing factor in at least 30 per cent of fatal and 25 per cent of serious injury crashes on Victorian roads.
Players took the court wearing blue armbands to honour lives lost on our roads and serve as a reminder that we can all make a difference in making roads safer.
Mixed results for the day as seen below:
NETBALL:
A Grade: FT: Warburton-Millgrove def Monbulk: (5246).
Best: Bianca Daniels, Ally Langdon, Taylah McIntosh.
Goals: Lara Nathan (8), Bianca Daniels (40), Alyssa Walker (4).
B Grade: FT: Warburton-Millgrove def by Monbulk (3751).
Best: Gabby Woods, Sienna Muir, Emily Hay. Goals: Mel Hancock (18), Tanner McCurdy (15), Cam Holland (2), Emerson Woods (2).
C Grade:
FT: Warburton-Millgrove drew Monbulk (3434).
Best: Kelly Lewis, Nicole Winzer and Layla Ata. Goals: Alexandra Woods (12) and Mel Hancock (17), Tiahn Syme (5).
D Grade: FT: Warburton-Millgrove def by Monbulk (1017).
Best: Tamin Crunden, Nicki Cole, Issy Maurici. Goals: Tayah Humphrey (6), Amarli Weir (2), Tiana Purchall (2).
U17: FT: Warburton-Millgrove def by Monbulk (2332).
Bests: Maisy Toy, Makayla Pye and Rylee Bond.
Goals: Maisy Toy (13), Belle Syme (3), Miami Rowland (7).
FOOTBALL RESULTS
U18s: FT: Warburton-Millgrove def by Monbulk: 5.2 (32) - 12.11 (83).
Bests: Arlo Haynes, Kai Harrison, Josh Holmes, Nate Lucas, Jedd Mormeneo, Logan King. Goals: Zane Wunhym (1), Reece Irvine (2), All Haynes (1), Max Neilson (1).
Reserves:
FT: Warburton-Millgrove def by Monbulk: 7.8 (50) - 11.11 (77).
Bests: Brayden Ferguson, Ricky Andueza, Dale Morris, Jedd Mormeneo, Damien Egan, Josh Read.
Goals: Reece Irvine (1), Josh Read (2), Adam Brennan (1), Damien Egan (3).
Seniors: FT: Warburton-Millgrove def by Monbulk: 10.12 (72) - 15.9 (99).
Best: Tom Baker, Nelson Aldridge, Josh Berenger, Brock Caneva, Max Blunt, Ben Pretty. Goals: Nelson Aldridge (5), Liam Barnard (1), Tom Barr (1), Brock Caneva (1), Bailey Humphrey (1), Liam Westlake (1).
Onto the next week as we host Olinda Ferny Creek. See you at the nest.
By David Ball
The Yarra Glen seniors travelled to Emerald in a battle between fourth and fifth.
A win for Yarra Glen would lock up a finals spot and keep third a mathematical possibility.
Similarly for Emerald, where a win was needed to keep their finals spot secure.
It was a hotly contested game with the River Pigs kicking the first two only to see Emerald respond.
The River Pigs went into quarter time leading by a goal.
The second quarter saw Emerald continue to pile on the pressure with a hard tag on Aussie Smith and a focus on trying to stop the River Pigs’ hand-ball receive game.
Despite their best efforts, Emerald could not penetrate the Yarra Glen defence and struggled to contain their key forwards in Travis Cloke and Josh Hawkins.
The River Pigs extended their lead to 21 points at half-time.
The third quarter was a real goal-for-goal battle, with Emerald able to outscore Yarra Glen and go into the last break just 15 points down.
Yarra Glen controlled the last quarter, with the midfield winning the clearances and the forwards taking advantage of this to add 3 goals to Emerald’s 1.
A great win against quality opposition on their own deck sees the River Pigs consolidate their fourth spot.
• Final Scores: Yarra Glen 13.14 to Emerald 9.10.
• Best Players: Aden Stares, Luke DeGoldi, Sam Wood, Connor Walker, Jake Ferris, Blake Binion.
• Goalkickers: Josh Hawkins 5, Travis Cloke 5, Jared McCann, Sam Wood and Tom Sullivan one each.
The Yarra Glen reserves were up against a very strong Emerald side, and whilst they battled hard, they were unable to stop the Emerald midfield dominance from controlling the game.
The back line put up a brave fight, but the River Pigs struggled to connect going forward, rarely being able to get past the half forward line.
Emerald was very consistent, kicking 4 goals in each quarter and keeping Yarra Glen to just the 1 goal.
To Yarra Glen’s credit, they produced their best quarter in the last.
• Final Scores: Yarra Glen 0.1 to Emerald 16.15.
• Best Players: Max Forbes, Simon Van Der Westhuizen, Jake Oultram, Nate Capuano, Mason Smith, Nathan Harding.
• Goalkicker: Josh Potter.
Yarra Glen’s Under 18’s had an early start at Gembrook and with only 16 getting there on Saturday, they were always up against it.
In wet conditions, they could not string together possessions, whereas the Brookers played the conditions well.
The River Pig boys contested hard and never stopped trying.
They generated several forward opportunities
but just could not convert.
• Final Scores: Yarra Glen 0.5 to Gembrook 13.15.
• Best Players: Brody Adams, Tyson Oates, Alex Toscano, Spencer Boers, Alastair Lowrie, John Pavic.
The Yarra Glen Vets hosted Upwey Tecoma on Friday night needing a win to secure a finals spot and a big win to gain enough percentage to jump from fourth to second place.
They started having all the play in their forward line but failed to capitalise, kicking 2.7 to Upwey’s 1 point.
They once again controlled the game in the second and increased their lead to 38 points.
With a win locked away, the River Pigs went into party mode in the second half as they chased and achieved the percentage gain they needed.
• Final Scores: Yarra Glen 19,12 to Upwey-Tecoma 1.6
• Best Players: Richard Gurney, Brad Deed, Kayne Henman, Chris Capuano, Dayne Downward.
• Goalkickers: Richard Gurney 8, Bobby Walker 3, Kayne Henman 2, Anthony Coppin 2 Dayne Downward 1 Terry Walker 1.
Travis Cloke will feature as the seniors, sitting fourth take on the third-placed Alexandra.
Get along and support the mighty River Pigs.
By David Ball
The Yarra Glen netball girls had a massive challenge as they travelled to Emerald, with all sides in finals contention, as were their opponents.
A grade in fourth spot faced third-placed Emerald and got off to a slow start, finding themselves 9 goals down at half-time.
They were making too many handling errors as their higher-placed opponents were clean and decisive.
The third quarter saw the Yarra girls settle in as they outscored Emerald but were still 7 goals behind heading into the last.
In the last quarter, Yarra Glen lifted their
intensity, and the extra pressure and great defence generated several turnovers. With great conversion from Maddy Hargrave, Yarra Glen hit the front in the final minutes to come out 1 goal winners in a thrilling finish.
• Final scores: Yarra Glen 41 to Emerald 40.
• Best Players: Georgia Grugnale, Kim Williams, Maddy Hargrave.
B Grade were in a battle between third and fourth, with Yarra Glen just the one game clear.
They jumped out to a 6-goal lead at quarter time and were able to hold out a desperate Emerald for the balance of the game.
Each time Emerald closed the gap, the Yarra girls would steady and maintain their advan-
tage.
In an even performance across the court, they held on for a well-deserved 4-goal victory.
Final Scores: Yarra Glen 40 to Emerald 36
Best Players: Jasmin Wood, Jamie Davis, Katelyn Vanderkolk.
In the C Grade game, Emerald needed to win to hang on to fifth spot, whereas the Yarra girls were looking to hold onto third.
In a real goal-for-goal battle in the first half, Emerald held a 2-goal lead.
They took control in the third and went into the last 7 goals up.
In a great 8-goal-to-4 last quarter effort, the Yarra girls came from the clouds to win a 1-goal
By Ron Hottes
Warburton Golf Club Report – Week Ending 26 July:
At Warburton Golf Club, like most clubs, there are always those who love an early tee time and those who are happy to ease into the day.
Two of our keenest early starters are great mates Rob Ferguson and Daryl Ward, who are usually among the first groups out—right at the crack of dawn, and we do mean the crack of dawn!
Last week it was Dazza taking the honours, but this week Fergie turned the tables.
Rob Ferguson put together a terrific round of 36 Stableford points to claim the Wednesday competition and the top voucher.
Laurie Doyle was runner-up with 34 points, earning the voucher on a countback after finishing alongside a couple of other players on the same score.
The nearest-the-pin competitions proved challenging once again.
Nobody could conquer either the fifth or the increasingly difficult 15th. Rob Ferguson capped off his winning day by claiming the nearest the pin on the third, David Mackey was closest on the ninth, and Ron Wilson took out the 12th.
Saturday saw a similar story unfold with another pair of brothers who enjoy the early morning golf.
Ben “Panda” Lever and his brother David are regular dawn starters, and while Pup has had his share of victories, this week it was Panda’s turn.
Ben produced an excellent 38 points to comfortably win the day’s event.
Sam Hyndman continued his outstanding
recent form with 35 points to finish runner-up. Keep it going, Sam—at this rate your handicap won’t stay where it is for long. You might even end up lower than your dad!
The Saturday nearest-the-pin winners were Ken White on the third, Peter Fox on the fifth, Jeff Sharp on the ninth, Alan “AJ” Johnson on the 12th with a beautifully struck tee shot, that only finished one and a half from that elusive pin, and Jack Wyatt on the 15th.
There was no Monday ladies’ golf this week, but we’re pleased to report that the ladies are ex-
pected to return in early August. We look forward to welcoming them back and seeing those Monday nearest-the-pins resume.
Finally, a reminder that our Jarrod Lyle Charity Day will be held on Friday, 15 August.
We encourage all members and guests to come along for a great day of golf, fun and friendship while helping raise funds for Challenge, an organisation that provides invaluable support to children and families living with cancer.
We hope to see a fantastic turnout for this very worthy cause.
thriller.
• Final scores: Yarra Glen 33 to Emerald 31
• Best Players: Ash Shanks, Abbey Page, Tiah Large Yarra Glen’s D Grade needed a win against the third-placed Emerald to keep their finals hopes alive.
In a tight contest, there were never more than two goals separating the teams.
Starting the last quarter one goal up, the Yarra girls were unable to hold on for the win, going down by just 2 goals.
• Final Scores: Yarra Glen 27 to Emerald 29. Next week, Yarra Glen is at home with all teams playing Alexandra.
With both sides missing several key players, ladder leaders Wandin proved too strong for bottom-placed Gembrook Cockatoo, recording a 24.14 (158) to 4.7 (31) victory.
Wandin’s ball movement was outstanding in the opening quarter, helping the Bulldogs race to a 7.4 to 0.1 lead at the first break.
To Gembrook’s credit, the second quarter was a much more even contest. The Brookers showed plenty of fight, restricting Wandin to two goals while adding 1.4 themselves. However, several missed opportunities prevented them from making a bigger dent in the margin.
After half-time, Wandin’s class and depth began to show as the Bulldogs gradually pulled away to secure the convincing win.
Gembrook’s best players were Konner Allcott, Joshua Tilly, Zachariah Shelton, Jesse Pantorno, Damien Volta and Danyan Kee, while Wandin’s best included Cayden Black, Patty Bruzzese, Marcus Krasnadamskis, Chayce Black, Damien Furey and Macauley Beckwith. Beckwith and Krasnadamskis each finished with six goals.
By Sally Cunningham
On a very wet and soggy Saturday, Healesville teams hit the pitch again for a full day of soccer. The fire was burning and the egg and bacon rolls kept coming as the dedicated players and support crews rolled in and out of Don Road complex. Women’s Premier League Healesville 2 – 1 Knox With the loss of senior stalwart Jen from last week, it was a thrill to welcome back explosive midfielder Tess and young gun Evie from their injuries. Facing Knox, who had beaten Healesville convincingly on the past two occasions, the team had to refresh and deliver. And did they deliver. Physical, committed football was the order of the day and this team, were landing heavy blows to an unsuspecting Knox outfit. Captain Melita found some space on the edge of the box and slotted the first of the day to give the home side the lead heading into half-time.
With confidence high the home team started the second half strongly and created chances but couldn’t capitalise. A loose midfield pass gave Knox an opportunity which they took, making it 1-1 with a quarter of an hour to play. Some composed play in the middle from Charlotte set up an opportunity for Kendi in the box who shot the loose ball into the back of the net, clinching the three points. A hard-fought and well-earned win against a quality opponent resulting in a seasonbest team performance.
The Hurricanes were determined to turn their form around against Mooroolbark. The return of co-captain Evie gave an instant lift, and she exploded out of the blocks with a hat trick inside 20 minutes, finishing smartly from clever buildup play by Sia and Olive. Ava drilled a low shot into the corner for a deserved 4–0 halftime lead. Healesville stayed dominant after the break, controlling possession and attacking with renewed confidence. Evie added two more to finish with five goals, Kendi continued her strong scoring run, and Sia capped her outstanding game with a superb long-range strike.
It was a complete team performance. Hanna controlled midfield and defence with composure, Sia drove almost every attacking move, and Evie’s fivegoal return from injury was the defining highlight of a commanding Hurricanes display.
Healesville mixed U14 9 – 0 Berwick Blues
The home side came out firing in a one-sided affair. Doubles from Monti and Mack and a lofted drive from 40 metres out by Mika were the highlights in a 7-0 halftime scoreline.
Dom, in his first game back from injury after two months on the sidelines, scored a penalty and Jake scored with the last kick of the game, which rounded off a great effort by the team - who peppered shot after shot at the very skilled Berwick goalkeeper.
U13 Boys Div 2 BCSC Thunder 1 - 4 Healesville Panthers
The team began exactly as they hoped—confident, composed and in control. Their midfield and backline combined well, with Louis, Flynn and Ben creating early chances for Ash and Ryder. Louis’ curling left-foot cross highlighted the quality of their forward play. Ryder soon opened the
scoring, and although Thunder responded, pressure from the wings and midfield allowed Sam, Will, Bodhi, Saxon and Jack to shut down most attacks. Sol made strong saves and launched quick transitions. Ryder added a second before Thunder pulled one back for 2–1 at halftime.
Jake took over in goal after the break, and the boys pressed hard. Ryder completed his hat trick, but Thunder kept attacking down the left, forcing Sam and Louis to work overtime and Ryder eventually forced in the fourth after a scramble. It was a true team performance, with every player contributing and every player standing out.
U12 Boys Healesville Ninjas 4 – 1 Lighthouse FC
The Ninjas knew the waterlogged pitch would be tough, yet both teams tried to play controlled football. Lighthouse started sharply and their quick strikers put the Ninjas under pressure, leading to an early goal. The boys didn’t back down, responding with strong tackles and good
By Aden Kerridge and Matt Munro
Yarra Valley Soccer Club produced two stunning wins on the weekend, with the senior men’s and the U15s dominating their opponents.
SENIORS - Yarra Valley def Khangtak Warriors (5-1):
Yarra Valley travelled to Wantirna seeking a much needed win, having started the second half of the season with a win, a draw and a loss which saw them slip to fifth on the ladder. Playing against third-placed Khangtak Warriors, a team which in the reverse fixture had comfortably won 3-0, it would prove to be a tough game with Valley needing to be on top of their game to get any result.
The first half was a cagey affair, with Khangtak having the majority of the ball and Yarra Valley having to be completely compact to stop any opportunities for them to score.
Yarra Valley would make the breakthrough after 20 minutes, when a counter-attack down the left side saw Baya Litchfield and Aden Kerridge link up for a ball to be played in to Manu Litchfield, who played it back across for Gus Vukman to finish from six yards out.
Yarra Valley held strong with some resolute defending from Tyler Kerridge clearing off the line, meaning Valley went into the half with a one-goal lead.
The second half started much like the first with Khangtak trying to break down a packed Yarra Valley Midfield.
Their measured passing game saw no results until a mix-up between our goalkeeper and his defence saw a misplaced pass allow them to score into an open net.
Yarra Valley sought to restore their lead when only a few minutes later Baya Litchfield scored from a corner to put the Valley boys back in front.
This goal opened up the floodgates with Manu Litchfield scoring a screamer from outside the box for his first-ever senior goal and Gus Vukman sneaking in for his second goal of the game.
George Lyons joined the party with a penalty
in the dying minutes of the game for his first ever senior goal to give the Yarra Valley a resounding 5-1 win.
One of the best team performances of the season against a tough opponent, with Valley looking to pick up steam for a late-season push up the table.
U15s Yarra Valley def Bayswater (10-3): Yarra Valley U15s backed up last week’s breakthrough victory with an impressive 10-3 win over Bayswater at home, producing some of their best
chances, one of which Hayden finished to level the score. At halftime the draw felt fair, but the Ninjas clearly wanted more.
Leroy and Carter were dangerous on the wings, Ollie and Jacob steadied the midfield, and Jude, Sebby and Kaspar defended bravely. Max pushed through an ankle strain, while Jaxson and Leo were excellent in goal and elsewhere. Leroy’s double and Leo’s composed finish sealed a brilliant comeback win. A fantastic all-round team performance that kept the three points in Healesville.
U12 Boys Healesville Goats 3 vs BNFC Jaguars 2
The Ninjas hosted the Jaguars, who began with only six players, allowing Fred ten minutes up front to enjoy himself and open the scoring. Soon after, three late-arriving Jaguars tumbled out of a car, bringing the match to 9v9. Leonard, Oscar, Nicholas and later Ryan stepped up in midfield, supporting the forwards and controlling play. Charlie, Tommy and Oscar were solid in defence, giving Rory freedom to grow into his sweeper role. Chase made several important saves despite a quiet morning. Edgar, Ethan and Tighe worked tirelessly as they shifted through multiple positions, providing drive and cover. Edgar finished a strong performance with the decisive goal, sealing a 3–2 win for the Ninjas. A committed team effort across the park.
U10 Boys Healesville Rangers 5 Northern Falcons 0
A heavy pitch and a physical Falcons side provided the Rangers boys with a new challenge which they took in their stride. Jude toe-poked the Rangers in front early before some neat passing between Jude and Logan set up Callum to finish nicely at the back post. Rangers took control of the second half and continued with the slick passing from midfield to forward, which resulted in Bryce finishing from close range. Jude added a fourth before Reece completed the scoreline with a long-range effort that went in off the post. U8 Girls 4 vs Lilydale 1
The Red Rubies rocked up to Morrison Reserve to horizontal rain and wind that felt Arctic. The girls showed true grit and hustle to come away with a 4-1 win against Lilydale.
attacking football of the season.
Valley started brightly, controlling possession from the opening whistle and creating several early opportunities through James. Despite dominating the early play, a lapse on the wing allowed Bayswater to open the scoring, leaving our goalkeeper with little chance despite a strong effort. The setback did little to change the momentum, with Yarra Valley continuing to create dangerous attacks and earning a string of corner kicks.
The equaliser arrived after Archer weaved his way through the defence before laying the ball on a plate for James to finish. James then turned provider, embarking on a strong run from halfway before striking the post, with Josh perfectly placed to tuck away the rebound and give Valley the lead. Flynn extended the advantage moments later with a superb long-range strike to make it 3-1 heading into the break.
Bayswater reduced the margin early in the second half following a goalkeeping error, but Valley responded immediately.
A determined run down the left wing by Tarryn forced a defensive mistake that resulted in an own goal before Tarryn deservedly added one of his own shortly afterwards.
Jonah also deserves special mention for an outstanding performance at centre back, making several crucial clearing kicks to keep Bayswater at bay.
The goals continued to flow as Archer delivered a pinpoint cross for Hugo to finish, before Flynn produced a beautifully weighted through ball that led to another Valley goal before adding another himself with a brilliant end-to-end run.
Fletcher rounded out the scoring with two well-taken finishes, both following dangerous deliveries into the box, sealing an excellent allround team performance.
Back-to-back wins are a great reward for the hard work the boys have put in over recent weeks.
The confidence is building, the football is improving, and it was fantastic to see so many players contribute to a well-earned victory.
By Anita Prowse
This week, entries for the first two days of Dressage In The Valley competition at Event Secretary from 1 August.
This is the first time we have run the Dressage In The Valley competition in this three-day Gala format and we are very excited about it.
Friday 23 October sees the first day of competition with an all open dressage jackpot being run by the Upper Yarra Pony Club. Tests are current PCV Dressage tests, all levels Advanced - Grade 6, and absolutely anyone can enter, as a ‘Day Insurance’ cover can be purchased with your entries.
Day Two on Saturday 24 October sees both an open section and a PC section, also Advanced - Grade 6, with Sunday being run by the Upper Yarra Adult Riding Club running an all-HRCAV jackpot. We have some great prizes on offer and some extra special gifts over the weekend. Get your entries in quick for what we hope will be a bumper three days of Dressage in our gorgeous Yarra Valley.
Happy riding everyone.
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