Yarra Junction organisation Each will be forced to pay compensation after an employee successfully sued the company for damages.
It came after a 20 July County Court ruling found the community health centre failed to provide a safe system of work for the employee.
Employee Allison Francis Greenwood was working at Each in January 2021 when she injured her right thumb and wrist after lifting a box that wasn’t packed properly.
Judge Val Gostencnik said that had the boxes been packed properly in the first place, the injury wouldn’t have occurred.
“A reasonable employer… would instruct staff… how to securely pack box contents and
label loosely packed boxes with appropriate descriptions.
“The defendant failed to provide a safe system because it failed to give proper training and instruction for the packing task,” Judge Gostencnik said.
Each tried to argue that it was not liable for Ms Greenwood’s damages because her injury was caused by her failure to undertake work safely.
But Judge Gostencnik said Ms Greenwood’s conduct was merely a “one of an ordinary human tendency toward momentary inattention”.
“She obtained a sense of false security from successfully moving the first two boxes and failed to check the third box before moving it wrongly assuming it would be the same.
“This was quintessentially an unfortunate
It’s time to complete your Census.
act of momentary inattention or inadvertence.
It was not in the circumstances a failure by the plaintiff to take reasonable care for her own
Every answer matters
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safety,” Judge Gostencnik said.
Ms Greenwood received manual handling training from her employer through an online video in 2019.
Each claimed a momentary inattention in routine work would only apply to repetitive tasks.
But Judge Gostencnik said that argument didn’t stand, as Ms Greenwood had received her training two years ago and manual handling was not part of her routine daily job.
“That might be true if the manual handling training were more recent. But the fact the training was undertaken two years earlier and that the plaintiff did not undertake regular manual handling tasks of the kind which resulted in her injury speaks against the defendant’s contention,” Judge Gostencnik said.
Jacinta Allan allies to quit politics after Labor coup
By Eleanor Wilson, AAP
Key allies of former Victorian premier Jacinta Allan will quit politics as a make-or-break cabinet reshuffle looms.
Eastern Region MP and Health Minister Harriet Shing and Energy Minister Lily D’Ambrosio on Thursday 30 July announced they would not contest their seats at the November state election and would step down from cabinet.
The exit of the pair, who are prominent allies of Ms Allan’s socialist left faction, creates room for new Premier Ben Carroll to reshuffle cabinet in coming days.
Ms Shing said she met with Mr Carroll on Tuesday afternoon, hours after he was sworn in as premier, to notify him of her decision.
The upper house MP, who represented much of the Yarra Ranges, was elevated to cabinet in 2022 and promoted to health minister in April after Mary-Anne Thomas flagged her retirement alongside fellow Labor stalwarts Danny Pearson and Gayle Tierney.
The first openly lesbian member of Victorian parliament after her election in 2014, Ms Shing thanked her partner, former premiers Daniel Andrews and Ms Allan, as well as Mr Carroll and her caucus colleagues.
“It has always been my view that we are custodians of these roles for the time that we have them, and it is now time for me to pass these opportunities and obligations on to the next person,” Shing said.
Representing the seat of Mill Park since 2002, Ms D’Ambrosio was the longest-serving energy minister in Australia after her appointment to the role in the first iteration of the Andrews government.
“Back in 2014 not a lot of people thought about energy too much. Of course, the decade that followed changed all that,” Ms D’Ambrosio said in a statement.
She informed Mr Carroll she would stand down from the cabinet on Thursday.
“I hope that my life in public service shows all girls what is possible for them no matter their faith, what they look like or the way they speak,” Ms D’Ambrosio said in a statement.
“Always back yourselves and each other.”
Mr Carroll thanked Ms Shing and Ms D’Ambrosio for their “many years of dedicated service”.
He will reshuffle his frontbench following a caucus meeting on Monday and vowed to run a “strong, disciplined and united cabinet”.
On Thursday, Mr Carroll hinted he could keep the education portfolio, telling reporters it had always been close to his heart.
“I will have more to say on portfolios,” he said.
“I value this portfolio, and this will be a matter for me and discussion with my colleagues.”
JudgeVal Gostencnik ruled in favour of employee Allison Francis Greenwood. (Google Maps)
Report into cults a ‘watershed moment’
By Oliver Winn
A Yarra Ranges cult
awareness advocate welcomed recommendations from the Australiafirst parliamentary inquiry into cults and fringe groups, calling it a “policy and personal win”
Renee Spencer, who has lost contact with her daughter Ellicia to an infamous cult known as the Jesus Christians, said the outcome was “hard to put into words”
“For so long, people like me have struggled to be heard, let alone believed that things have been as bad as we said they were.
“To finally have our painful experience recognised, by a parliamentary inquiry is not just a policy win, it’s personal. It’s validation for every survivor who was told it wasn’t that bad or that it was just a group they could choose to leave.”
It came after the inquiry’s report was handed down on 29 July, which made 98 findings and 39 recommendations. The State Government has six months to respond to the report.
Clare Heath-McIvor from Survivors of Coercive Cults and High-Control Groups said the report offered hope to survivors.
“This is a vitally important recommendation that we fully support. No victim should have to prove their group is a cult before proving that group-based coercive control and abuse occurred, or that it mattered,” Ms Heath-McIvor said.
The inquiry’s report, Crossing the Line: Coercion and Harm in High-Control Groups, calls for “group-based coercion” to become a criminal offence, for the experiences of survivors to shape legal reforms, and for the law to recognise that “consent” cannot be relied on as a defence, given that these groups systematically erode a person’s ability to give it freely.
Ms Spencer’s daughter Ellicia was 22-yearsold and attending TAFE in Lilydale when a YouTube video changed the course of her life. It coaxed her to join the The Jesus Christians, also known as the Kidney Cult for encouraging its members to donate their organs to strangers.
“That’s where she found the Kidney Cult’s videos, and she reached out to them through an email that they advertised and then they came to see her, presenting themselves as Christians, hiding their past as the Kidney Cult,” Ms Spencer said to the Star Mail last year.
Within an instant, Ellicia was whipped away: she quit her job, moved out of home, gave away all her possessions. The matter was complicated further by the fact she had fallen in love with (and then married) one of the members.
The Star Mail heard from Ellicia last year, and she denied her mother’s claims. She denied the Star Mail’s requests for a phone call interview.
Ms Spencer’s experience led her to become the president of the Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS) group.
“CIFS looks forward to continuing the work of supporting victim-survivors and their families, and advocating for these recommendations to be
implemented in full.”
A key detail of the inquiry is that it defines cults not based on their beliefs, but on the way they control, dominate and restrict members.
Ms Heath-McIvor said any group could be a cult.
“Multi-level marketing cults, yoga cults, political cults and more all exist. Cults are not a phenomenon of belief, but coercive control and domination across multiple domains of life,” she said.
A long list of recruitment methods commonly employed by cults was included in the inquiry, which included love bombing, controlling time and information, manipulating emotions and targeting the vulnerable, and many more coercive tactics.
Cults then isolate members from family, friends and alternative sources of information to control them, and use fear and guilt to limit their ability to make informed decisions.
The inquiry stated the loaded connotations associated with the word cult was wrongly applied to faiths which may seem strange to outsiders even if they were practising their beliefs in good faith.
“Some small or lesser-known religious groups, including minor yet mainstream faiths that may seem unfamiliar or strange to outsiders, have at times been inaccurately labelled as cults— despite lacking the harmful behaviours typically associated with that term,” the inquiry stated.
Ms Spencer said the inquiry recognised the significant gaps in a system that hasn’t had the tools to deal with the abuse that occurs within cults.
“For decades they’ve operated in the gaps the law simply didn’t reach. Seeing those gaps finally being closed means the next person won’t have to go through what we did before anyone believed them.”
She said she was grateful to have worked with many other cult survivors and advocates.
“I’ve felt honoured to work alongside Ryan and Catherine Carey, whose determination got this inquiry off the ground in the first place, and alongside advocates I deeply admire: Clare McIvor, Laura McConnell Conti, Elise Heerde, and Patrick McIvor. This outcome belongs to all of us, and to every survivor who spoke up,” Ms Spencer said.
IN BRIEF
Pedestrian
safety at Yarra Valley Railway encouraged
The Yarra Valley Railway (YVR) has suspended regular passenger train services as operations focus on an ongoing reconstruction and restoration program.
According to a YVR statement, the railway remains active as crews work on restoring the track between Yarra Glen and Healesville.
Railway officials issued a safety warning urging motorists and pedestrians to exercise caution at all level crossings along the route.
Crossings equipped with stop signs require drivers to stop and check for incoming track vehicles.
YVR stated that updates on the reconstruction progress will be released in the near future. Announcement dates regarding the resumption of regular passenger train services will be published on the railway’s website and social media platforms.
The organisation is also currently seeking volunteers to assist with operations.
H5 bird flu warnings continue
The Seville Veterinary Clinic is reminding Yarra Valley residents to stay alert for signs of H5 bird flu, following the continued spread of the virus in wild seabirds across Australia.
As of 3 August 2026, there have been 62 confirmed detections nationwide, including seven in Victoria, according to the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
While the highly pathogenic H5 strain has been detected in wild birds, there have been no cases in poultry or the wider agriculture industry, and the risk to human health remains low.
The Seville clinic urges locals not to touch sick, injured or dead birds or wildlife.
If an injured bird requires veterinary care, wear gloves and a mask, call the clinic before transporting the animal, and leave it outside the clinic on arrival before notifying reception staff.
If you find five or more sick or dead birds, or a single dead swan, pelican, penguin, bird of prey or marine mammal, avoid contact, record the location and report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Be prepared for the census
People are being asked to check their mailboxes for instructions on how to participate in the upcoming Census on Tuesday 11 August, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) said.
Most households will receive instructions to complete the Census online, with paper forms available on request for those who prefer them.
It will take the average household around 30 minutes to complete the form.
For more information, visit census.abs.gov.au
Renee Spencer with her daughter Ellicia (blurred). (Supplied)
Yarra Ranges’ mixed results
By Gabriella Vukman
Residents across the Yarra Ranges were among millions of Australians who received a loud emergency alert on their mobile phones during the first nationwide test of the new AusAlert system on Monday, 27 July.
The test was designed to ensure the new warning system is ready to rapidly alert communities during emergencies such as bushfires, floods and other major incidents.
While many residents received the alert, others reported their phones remained silent despite standing beside someone whose device sounded, raising questions about how the new technology works.
President of the Rotary Club of Healesville Terry Hill was among those whose phones received the alert.
“My phone went off but my wife’s didn’t,” he said.
“I thought the alert would have been a bit louder, but then you can only make it as loud as your phone lets you anyway.”
Yarra Glen resident Donna Brown said she was surprised when her daughter’s phone received the warning while hers remained silent.
“I don’t know whether having my calculator open on my phone affected it but it hasn’t gone off yet,” she said.
“What will I do if something happens and I don’t know about it?”
Following the test, the Star Mail asked the organisations behind AusAlert why some residents received the alert while others did not, how the system performed nationally and what the results mean for future emergencies.
A spokesperson from the Australian Telecommunications Alliance told Star Mail Australia’s three major mobile operators worked closely with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) over several years to develop the AusAlert system ahead of its first national test.
The spokesperson said the alert was successfully broadcast from more than 94 per cent of mobile cell sites across Australia.
“AusAlert uses cell broadcast technology to rapidly send emergency alerts to compatible devices within a targeted area,” the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson also said because AusAlert is a broadcast service rather than a oneto-one message, there is no way to confirm how many individual devices received the alert.
“As with any broadcast technology, experiences may vary depending on device settings, software and compatibility,” the spokesperson said.
According to the spokesperson, the mobile industry is now working with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to review the results of the test and identify opportunities to strengthen the system.
Emergency authorities say the new technology is designed to complement existing warning systems, rather than replace them.
A spokesperson from NEMA told Star Mail AusAlert was developed following recommendations from the 2020 Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements, which called for a more modern and national-
coverage and reliability, particularly ahead of another bushfire season.
ly consistent public warning capability.
The spokesperson said there would be circumstances where a device may not receive an alert, including where there is no mobile coverage, the device is not compatible, software is not up to date or other technical settings affect delivery.
According to the spokesperson, AusAlert was not intended to replace existing warning systems.
“AusAlert is not a silver bullet and will not replace other emergency warnings or local communication channels,” the spokesperson said.
“It is one additional tool to help emergency services get urgent information to more people quickly, alongside existing text-based alerts, radio and television broadcasts, local emergency services, and community networks.”
For many Yarra Ranges residents, the test also renewed discussion about mobile coverage, particularly in areas where mountainous terrain, dense vegetation and remote locations can affect reception.
strengthen network resilience across the region.
A spokesperson from Optus told Star Mail the company continues to review its network and identify opportunities to improve coverage across the region.
“In the last 18 months Optus has activated two new government co-funded base stations at Warburton West and Millgrove.”
“We are working to install more towers in the coming years including 5G upgrades,” the spokesperson said.
“The Yarra Ranges, like other areas with difficult terrain, vegetation and environment, can be a challenge to not only provide extensive coverage, but also to find suitable and practically available site locations.”
Beyond expanding coverage, the Star Mail also asked what measures are in place to keep mobile services operating during bushfires, storms and prolonged power outages.
“Optus undertakes extensive preparation work ahead of natural disasters and during emergency events the network is monitored 24/7 with critical feedback from on the ground crews,” the spokesperson said.
The Optus spokesperson also said all Optus mobile sites are equipped with battery backup systems that typically provide between four and 12 hours of operation during power outages, while a number of strategic sites also have permanent standby generators.
The company also added that it maintains transportable generators that can be deployed during prolonged outages.
Telstra also outlined the work it has undertaken across the Yarra Ranges to improve both
A spokesperson from Telstra told Star Mail the company had also invested significantly in improving coverage across the Yarra Ranges.
“Over the past two years, we’ve made significant investments across the Yarra Ranges, delivering new mobile sites, upgrading existing infrastructure and expanding 5G coverage and capacity, with more projects underway,” the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson said all Telstra sites were supported by backup batteries, with many key sites also fitted with permanent generators and additional portable generators deployed during emergencies.
The spokesperson said residents should continue to prepare for emergencies by having multiple ways to receive warnings, particularly as the region heads towards another bushfire season.
“As we head towards the next bushfire season, we encourage customers to review their emergency plans and ensure they have multiple ways to stay connected and access critical information if services are disrupted.”
Telecommunications experts say a range of factors can influence whether a device receives a cell broadcast alert, including mobile coverage, handset compatibility, software versions, device settings and network conditions at the time.
Emergency authorities continue to encourage residents to rely on multiple sources of emergency information, including emergency warning apps, local radio, television broadcasts and community networks, rather than depending on a single method of communication during emergencies.
The Star Mail asked telecommunications providers what they are doing to improve coverage and
Yarra Ranges residents report mixed results for AusAlert system. (Supplied).
Disclosure scheme promised
By Callum Ludwig
The Victorian Liberals have promised to implement a domestic violence disclosure scheme, similar to Clare’s Law adopted in the United Kingdom (UK) and South Australia, if successful at this year’s state election.
The party also adopted the policy position ahead of the 2022 election, while shadow minister for the prevention of family violence and Eildon MP Cindy McLeish previously attempted to introduce it to parliament through a private member’s bill in 2024.
Ms McLeish said it just reaffirms their position on Clare’s Law as something further that can be done to make a difference in the prevention of family and domestic violence.
“People can hide identities easily, much more easily online, and this is a way of bringing that out into the open.
“It may be someone that you may be involved with, or it could be my sister going and asking because I’ve got a dodgy partner and things don’t quite seem quite right… it could be a family member, it could be a best friend, but it doesn’t need to just be in heterosexual relationships either.
“You’d lodge your application online, and then they (police) do the background work and come back to you.”
The scheme as it operates in South Australia and the UK entitles you to the ‘right to ask’ and
the ‘right to know’ about their own partner or that of a close friend, neighbour or family member.
The right to ask entitles people to make an application about a current or ex-partner to the police if they are worried that the person may have been abusive in the past. In South Australia, this information can include convictions for relevant offences (including interstate), relevant reports made to police and charges laid, current and historical intervention orders, breaches of intervention orders and other information relevant to the safety of the person at risk that police may hold.
The right to know also allows the police to proactively share information with someone whose current or ex-partner has a record of violent or abusive behaviour and they believe that they may be at risk.
Ms McLeish said police won’t just do this out of the blue and have got procedures and processes in place to make sure that it’s done delicately.
“The police are trained up, and the police are very good already at delivering bad news… they don’t do it with you on your own, they’d often have a support person, one of your family members or friends there with you,” she said.
“The stats are incredible, in the UK in the 24/25 financial year, they had almost 90,000 applications to find out. In 38,000 of those, they made a disclosure, they had to provide information where people are a little bit suspicious or the history doesn’t add up.
“The number of applicants has been really quite surprising and frightening almost… in South Australia, since its inception there’s been just over two and a half thousand applications with over 1000 disclosures.”
Clare’s Law is named in the memory of Clare Wood, whose parents campaigned for the change after she was killed by her ex-boyfriend in the UK in 2009
A Victorian Government spokesperson said women deserve to be safe and free from abuse and violence – and when women are still dying at the hands of men, we must do more.
“Labor will introduce legislation to criminalisecoercivecontrol,bangoodcharacterevidence as a mitigating factor in sentencing, and deliver further reforms to better protect victim-survivors
and hold perpetrators to account,” they said.
The Victorian Government has not pledged to implement a domestic violence disclosure scheme, but other family and domestic violence measures recently implemented include:
Banning accused persons who are self-represented from cross-examining protected witnesses like victims and family members, in sexual offence, family violence and stalking proceedings.
Banning committal hearings for all sexual offence complainants.
Allowing sexual complainants to give evidence via remote video link, or having a support person present when giving evidence.
Restricting when victims’ counselling notes and health information can be accessed for evidence.
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Eildon MP Cindy McLeish has been a long-standing advocate for a domestic violence disclosure scheme in Victoria. (File)
‘We ain’t letting go’
By Oliver
The Warburton Advancement League (WAL) called upon council for actionable support to help progress a social housing project addressing homelessness in the Yarra Ranges.
In an impassioned speech at the 28 July council meeting, WAL vice president David Pratt said he needed council’s support to address a “heartbreaking” increase in the rates of homelessness.
“We are asking council to stand with us and use its influence so that this project, and others like it, can finally move from well-developed concepts into real homes for the people who urgently need them,” Mr Pratt said.
His speech represented the collective voice of WAL’s Cerini Centre Social Housing Project Taskforce, which is formed by members from Anchor Community Care, Stable One and ADRA Community Centre Redwood.
The Cerini Centre Social Housing Project would see at least 19 modular homes built at the former Cerini Centre site in Warburton to provide accommodation for those in need.
The taskforce’s plea comes as national Homelessness Week begins on 3 August.
O’Shannassy Ward councillor Jim Child said it was “fairly emotional” for him, having been mayor back when the project started in 2021.
“Looking back on those times that I was mayor when we really put this on our advocacy space… what I’m calling for tonight, councillors, again, is that we do that,” Cr Child said.
“We need a way out of this.”
A slideshow of testimonials from real people experiencing homelessness played while Mr Pratt delivered his speech.
As councillors read their experiences within the confines of the shire’s chambers, there’s no doubt that those behind the stories were weathering the blistering cold conditions outside.
The Cerini Centre Taskforce have already raised $110,000 to fund a range of key surveys, assessments, home concept designs and sale negotiations.
But Mr Pratt said the project remains “dead in the water” without a registered housing provider on board, as the Taskforce cannot access government funding without one.
“Not because the project lacks merit, but because the system requires a box to be ticked by a registered housing provider that we, as a community group, cannot tick ourselves.”
Yarra Ranges Council director of communities Leanne Hurst said council was supportive of the project.
“Our staff have been in conversation with David and the Warburton Advancement League, and are supportive of their proposed social and affordable housing development.
“We support the league’s position, that social housing programs from other levels of government are too heavily focused on large-scale projects, and that the Yarra Ranges being classified as metropolitan Melbourne poses additional barriers for townships such as Warburton accessing grant funding.”
She emphasised that the council, as the planning authority that would review the proposal once submitted, would assess all applications on their merit, against the Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme’s requirements.
Federal Casey MP Aaron Violi said he would continue to advocate on behalf of WAL for the Cerini Centre Social Housing Project in Parliament.
“I was proud to advocate on behalf of the project to the Minister for Housing in 2024, requesting funding to help the project proceed past planning stages,” Mr Violi said.
Ms Hurst said the Yarra Ranges had significantly lower social housing stock when compared to the rest of Greater Melbourne.
“This indicates a need for more social housing options to meet the growing demand in the area and council will continue to support and advocate for projects to address this shortage,” she said.
Mr Pratt said the derelict site was reasonable to repurpose.
“From a planning perspective, repurposing
Timeline of the Cerini Centre
1952: Arrival of Fr Charles Cerini Fr Charles Cerini arrives in Warburton to serve as the Parish Priest for the Upper Yarra Catholic Community. Recognising the need for a local Catholic school, he begins making bricks by hand to construct a convent for the Sisters of Saint Joseph, followed by work on a circular school building designed with help from local volunteers, Dam construction workers, and community members of all faiths.
1954: Opening of St Joseph’s Primary School
St Joseph’s Primary School officially opens with an innovative circular design featuring a central hall and surrounding classrooms. Sister Gertrude Mills and Sister Jerome begin teaching 80 students ranging from Prep to Grade 6.
1966: The Ten-Day Protest Walk
After the High School relocates to Yarra Junction and transport assistance is rejected by the Education Department, Fr Cerini walks 35 students and parents just under 10 kilometres from Yarra Junction to Warburton and back for ten consecutive days. The public action leads the government to reach a compromise, allowing Catholic school children onto the school bus.
1968: Fr Cerini dies of Leukemia.
1987: Opening of Yarra Junction Campus
A new Catholic Primary School opens in Yarra Junction, beginning a period of a few years where St Joseph’s Primary School operates across two campuses.
December 1994: Closure of Warburton Campus
The Warburton campus officially closes, and all remaining students are relocated to St Joseph’s Primary School in Yarra Junction. Post-1994: Warburton Cerini Community Centre
Local Catholics rename the vacant building the Warburton Cerini Community Centre, and it hosts parish events, weddings, book sales, and other functions.
2015: Warburton Cerini Community Centre closes down
Unresolved issues regarding title boundaries (the building was partly constructed on land owned by the Education Department) eventually force the volunteer group to disband after efforts to regularise the titles fail.
2021: Warburton Advancement League begin the Cerini Centre Social Housing Project
Members of the Warburton Advancement League—including personnel from the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA)— and the Sacred Heart Parish form a working group. Identifying an urgent need for social and affordable accommodation in the Upper Yarra, they begin developing a plan to establish 12 to 15 two-, three-, and four-bedroom homes on the vacant Cerini Centre site. 2022: Regulatory Framework Selection
The working group identifies that establishing a Manufactured Home Estate (MHE) provides the most cost-effective method to deliver affordable social housing without requiring land subdivisions or consolidations.
July 2023: Presentation of Project Proposal
a derelict site for well-designed modular social housing seems entirely consistent with good land-use and risk-management practice,” he said.
He said the project was also financially viable as homes would be built as a Manufactured Home Estate.
“We also believe it could serve as a model for how other regional communities can help address the housing crisis in their own towns.”
WAL president Jeff Gill and ADRA Community Centre Redwood manager Kate Barratt attended the meeting alongside Mr Pratt.
Mr Gill said WAL’s historic commitment to improving Warburton was a testament to the group’s tenacity towards the Cerini Centre Social Housing Project.
“Everything in Warburton that’s happened, we’ve [WAL] had a hand in, but this is by far our biggest.”
“We, as a voluntary group, have put a lot of money into this… we haven’t asked anybody for anything. We’ve raised it ourselves. That just shows you the commitment we’ve got for this project.
“We ain’t letting go.”
Detailed project presentation materials are released, outlining the full scope of the proposed development. The plan covers approximately 13,000 m² of usable land across multi-titled parcels owned by the Catholic Diocese, Department of Education, and Yarra Ranges Shire Council. Proposed features include:
Constructing 12–15 rental homes (with at least two reserved for short-term family crisis accommodation).
Creating a new access road from Riverside Drive.
Renovating the historic circular Cerini Centre building to serve as an on-site hub for an accredited Registered Housing Provider and a community centre.
December 2024: The Cerini Walk Community Event
On 4 December 2024, over 100 community members participate in the **Cerini Walk**, walking from Millgrove to the Cerini Centre in Warburton to raise public awareness, promote change, and support local initiatives addressing homelessness and social housing needs in the region.
July 2026: Housing calls
David Pratt from WAL calls for council’s support in securing a registered housing provider.
Warburton Advancement League (WAL) vice president David Pratt delivers a moving speech about homelessness in the Upper Yarra. (Oliver Winn: 568673)
O’Shannassy Ward councillor Jim Child spoke of the significance of the project. (568673)
Winn
Vital that we’re all counted
By Callum Ludwig
As the countdown to the census draws nearer, hard work is underway to ensure all Australians have the opportunity to be counted.
Local homelessness support services like Anchor and the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) are taking steps to ensure people experiencing homelessness are heard from.
Anchor chief executive Heidi Tucker says that the Census is crucial for understanding how widespread homelessness is in Australia.
“We can’t let people be invisible in our communities, it’s vital that Australia’s most vulnerable residents are captured in the count,” she said.
“The data captured in the Census will inform both services and the government for the next five years.
“For the sector, it is precious evidence of just how bad the homelessness crisis is, and can be the difference between an organisation receiving funding to support a particular re-
gion, or having to go without.”
In the Yarra Ranges area, the challenges of outreach are made all the more difficult by the 2468 square kilometres to cover across the region, including plenty of bushland where rough sleepers sometimes camp.
“Not everyone who is experiencing homelessness is known to a service. We’re worried that there will be people who are missed,” Ms Tucker said.
“We know that young people in particular can be couch surfing or living in scenarios associated with homelessness.”
Data from the 2021 Census estimated that 122,494 people were experiencing homelessness on Census night, 23 per cent of which were aged from 12 to 24 years.
The number of people experiencing homelessness has increased by 36 per cent (32,766 people) since 2006, rising from 45 per 100,000 people to 50 per 100,000.
An ABS spokesperson said the Census is the only national estimate of the prevalence of
homelessness.
“Census data helps governments and service providers make informed decisions about funding allocation and deliver services where they are needed most,” they said.
“Census data informs a key homelessness measure in the Commonwealth’s National Agreement on Social Housing and Homelessness.
“It is also used to inform programs and services such as emergency shelters, domestic violence programs, transitional housing and programs for vulnerable Australians.”
“In the week of the Census (10-16 August), Census staff will be in locations across Australia where people are known to sleep rough.
The ABS spokesperson said they are working closely with the homelessness sector to help people participate in the Census.
“This includes people sleeping rough, staying in crisis accommodation, transitional housing, boarding houses, shelters and supported accommodation,” they said.
“They will assist people experiencing homelessness to participate, including interviewing people sleeping rough using a shortened version of the Census form.”
“Where possible, the ABS recruits staff for this work who have experience in the homelessness sector, or with lived experience of homelessness.”
Information materials to support people experiencing homelessness will be circulated directly to the homelessness sector for sharing and are available on the Census website at census.abs.gov.au/homelessness.
Census data has helped spring initiatives like Street Side Medics, founded by Dr Daniel Nour, which has opened up fourteen pop-up clinics around the country to provide healthcare to people experiencing homelessness.
“We rely on Census data to give us a gauge of where to go,” Dr Nour said.
“The sorts of people that are living there, the different communities that live there, the cultures behind them.”
Urging the Outer East to register to give the gift of life
By Callum Ludwig
For Australia’s annual DonateLife Week, Outer East residents are being urged to take up the simple steps required to register as an organ donor.
New data released by DonateLife reveals how many residents have registered as organ and tissue donors in Victorian local government areas (LGAs).
State medical director of DonateLife Victoria Dr Rohit D’Costa said a recent community survey shows 90 per cent of Victorians support organ donation, but less than one quarter have registered to be a donor.
“It doesn’t matter how old or healthy you are – you can still register as an organ and tissue donor, registering is quick, easy and only takes one minute,” he said.
“A recent community survey shows that 31 per cent of Victorians think they are registered, but in reality only 23 per cent are registered… it’s important to check you are registered at donatelife. gov.au or through Medicare.
“This DonateLife Week, I’m urging all Victorians to please register as an organ and tissue donor. Then, tell your family you want to be a donor - someone’s life depends on it.”
In the Outer East:
The Yarra Ranges had 828 new registrations in 2025, a decrease of 20 per cent, down from 1038 the year prior. In total, 41,433 Yarra Ranges residents are registered to donate, or 32 per cent of the region’s population.
715 Knox residents registered in 2025, a decrease of 18 per cent from 869 the year prior. 32,521 Knox residents are registered to donate, which is 24 per cent of the region’s population. 589 people in Maroondah registered in 2025, 22 per cent less the 757 who did so in 2024. 17,735 Maroondah residents, 29 per cent of its local populace, are registered to donate.
In Cardinia, there were 536 new registrations in 2025, down 23 per cent from 694 the previous year. 25 per cent of the population is registered, accounting for 22,185 people.
Nikki Liebman can attest to the difference organ donation can make to people’s lives.
After she moved to Australia from South Africa in 2004, Ms Liebman was diagnosed with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), an autoimmune condition that affects the liver bowel ducts, getting by with medication which kept her condition stable and allowed her to start a family.
Ms Liebman said she got Covid in 2022 and her medication stopped working.
“My condition worsened, and the only option was to have a transplant, but before I could even go through that whole process, I ended up having an emergency,” she said.
“I had burst varices where my poor children, who were thirteen and probably eleven at the time, found me collapsed on the floor, and I was
rushed to hospital, where I nearly died.
“I got put on the transplant list in early 2024 and the wait was probably about two and a half months, but quite excruciating.”
Just months after her donation, Ms Liebman and her partner Damien honoured her donor by completing the 80km ride along the Lilydale-Warburton Rail Trail and back, something that would have been impossible due to her ailing health before the transplant.
Ms Liebman said it was a second chance at life, and without that transplant, she wouldn’t be here today.
“Obviously recovery is hard but I get the gift of being able to see my girls now grow up, when you have liver disease, it’s quite debilitating because you don’t have energy, you feel sick all the time,
your body hurts, and you’re not really having a good quality of life,” she said.
“I’m so appreciative of my donor, the choice they made, and to their family because without that choice, many of us on the waiting list would not get the opportunity of a second chance of life.”
2000 Australians are currently awaiting an organ transplant, while there are a further 14,000 on dialysis who could benefit from a kidney transplant.
Ms Liebman said if it is something local residents are interested in, it’s a very simple process to sign up.
“I don’t think it’s something many people think about, you go through life not thinking about organ donation because it hasn’t happened to you or anyone close to you but being aware of it now, it’s even more important to spread the word,” she said.
“My daughters now want to become organ donors, and a few of my friends have signed up so this has impacted not just my life, but the life of a lot of people around me.
“It’s also important to let their families and friends know about their thoughts because at the end of the day, your family make that final decision, so the important part is to educate yourself on organ donation as well as let your family and friends know.”
To register or check if you are already registered, visit donatelife.gov.au/register-donor-today.
Nikki Liebman’s life was saved by a liver transplant in 2024. (Stewart Chambers: 472091)
Are your kids living in a world revolving around their passions? That’s a good thing.
It’s why the VCE’s new Vocational Major creates worlds where passions can be explored.
From agriculture to construction, health to renewable energy. Whatever world our kids are into, there’s a VCE program to help develop the skills they’ll need to land a job in Australia’s most in-demand industries.
Bus incident prompts community discussion
By Gabriella Vukman
Healesville woman Stephy Keach is encouraging locals to remain aware of their surroundings on public transport after an unsettling experience on a bus on 16 July, praising both a vigilant bus driver and a fellow passenger whose actions helped her feel safe.
Ms Keach said she was travelling on the 685 service from Lilydale to Healesville when a man repeatedly approached her during the journey to ask for the time.
Initially, she thought little of the interactions until she received separate warnings from both the bus driver and another passenger.
“As I was getting ready to get off the bus, the bus driver quietly warned me that he had noticed the man’s behaviour and told me to be careful,” she said in a post on the Healesville Noticeboard.
“A moment later, another young girl discreetly handed me a sticky note that said, ‘Please be careful of the guy behind you. He keeps staring at you and the girl behind you.’”
Ms Keach said seeing the note after the driver’s warning made her realise that “something wasn’t right.”
“If two different people, including the bus driver, independently noticed his behaviour and felt the need to warn me, it made it clear that his actions stood out as concerning.”
“When I saw the man getting off at the same stop as me, I felt scared because that is when it really sank in that the situation could have been more serious than I had realised.”
“I am incredibly grateful that the bus driver was paying attention and called me back onto the bus to drop me closer to my house so I got home safely,” the post read.
‘Out
By Oliver Winn
Ms Keach told Star Mail the incident was the first time she had felt unsafe while using public transport.
“I have always tried to be aware of my surroundings, but I never expected something like this to happen.”
“It definitely made me realise how quickly a normal trip home can change.”
According to Ms Keach, the experience reinforced the importance of people looking out for one another in the community.
“I would love to see more bus drivers step in when they notice someone may be vulnerable, because what my driver did made all the difference,” Ms Keach said.
“The bus driver and the young girl who warned me showed how much of a difference it makes when people are willing to look out for someone else. Their actions are something I will never forget.”
Ms Keach said when it comes to addressing safety on public transport, much needs to be done.
“Better lighting at bus stops, more visible security measures, and encouraging people to look out for one another would help women feel much safer.”
A Victoria Police spokesperson confirmed police had been made aware of the incident.
“Police did receive information about an incident on a bus between Lilydale and Healesville on 16 July; however, no criminality was identified.”
Police also highlighted the STOPIT text messaging service, launched in 2022, which allows passengers to discreetly report unwanted sexual behaviour and anti-social behaviour on Victoria’s public transport network.
Since its introduction, the service has received more than 7400 reports, with approx-
imately 85 per cent relating to anti-social behaviour and 15 per cent involving unwanted sexual behaviour.
Around 500 reports have led to investigations, resulting in 77 people being arrested and charged with sexual offences.
Transit Safety Division Superintendent Mark Zervaas said the service played an important role in helping police respond to concerning behaviour.
“We want members of our community to be able to commute on public transport without feeling threatened.”
“STOPIT is a fantastic tool to provide some reassurance to commuters that if they witness antisocial or unwanted sexual behaviour, they can quickly report it to police,” he said.
“Every piece of information received has helped us make the network a safer place for
all commuters.”
Police reminded passengers that STOPIT is not monitored in real time and that Triple Zero (000) should always be used in an emergency requiring an immediate police response.
Despite the absence of an identification of criminality, the experience has prompted a conversation about community awareness and looking out for one another.
A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson told Star Mail passenger safety remained a priority.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe when travelling on public transport.”
“We encourage passengers to report harassment or concerning behaviour so it can be investigated,” they said.
“We continue to work closely with public transport operators and Victoria Police to help keep passengers and staff safe across the network.”
The Department said bus drivers receive safety training and have access to emergency communication devices linked directly to an emergency call centre if assistance is required.
According to the spokesperson, the Department works alongside public transport operators and Victoria Police on initiatives to improve safety across the network.
For Ms Keach, the experience serves as a reminder of the impact ordinary people can have by paying attention and speaking up when something doesn’t seem right.
“It wasn’t just the bus driver that helped me,” she said.
“It was also a young passenger who quietly took the time to warn me.”
“Their kindness and willingness to act made all the difference, and I hope others continue to look out for one another.”
of our heart’: Warburton honours its long serving firefighters
Warburton CFA members were recognised for their decades of dedication, service and sacrifice on 26 July at the brigade’s annual general meeting.
Some 50 volunteers and family members rocked up to the Warburton CFA station on Sunday morning to celebrate many service and life membership medals.
Warburton CFA captain Ron McIntosh said these medals represented the brigade’s dedication to the community.
“We value our community, hence why we join as volunteers to a brigade such as Warburton. We don’t get paid for anything that we do, it’s all out of our own heart,” he said.
Mr McIntosh received his 10 Year CFA Service Medal, with the decade also marking 581 incidents attended, and three years of being captain.
But Mr McIntosh, humble as ever, said it was the older members to provided the guidance that enabled him to grow throughout the years.
“I’ve been around them now for 10 [years]. So just learning from their experiences, that definitely helped me along my way for the last 10 years.
“They’re the ones which have survived. They, from experience, know what it’s like to get caught in a fire,” he said.
The incredible Barry Marshall received his 70 Year CFA Life Membership Medal after hitting the milestone back in February.
“Barry was captain there [at Warburton CFA] for a while and he’s been through some of the big Ash Wednesday fires and everything like that, so you know his experience is very well known,” Mr McIntosh said.
“We pay attention when he speaks.”
Brigade chairperson Raymond Lynch has worn multiple hats during his 50 years of service, including numerous stints as lieutenant, apparatus officer and health and safety representative.
Meanwhile, Warren Unthank donned his life membership medal for 35 years of service, racking up 535 callouts over his career.
While the community make their gratitude toward the CFA known, Mr McIntosh said the
firefighters themselves owed thanks to those who allow them to do what they do.
“The biggest thing is our family… they’re the ones that actually allow us to go out and help the community, because without them we couldn’t do what we’re doing.
“Unfortunately, the family members don’t get the same sort of accolades as what we do as serving volunteers. But I think they deserve a lot more than what we get, to be honest,” he said.
Richard Ireland received his 30 Year CFA Life Membership Medal, having hit a whopping 844 turnouts in his firefighting career. He served twice as captain for Wesburn-Millgrove during the 2010s, before returning back to War-
burton in 2019.
Three decades of service were also awarded to Timothy Dracup, who signed up as a junior in 1996. Mr Dracup attended a massive 1258 callouts so far in his career.
Emma Van Meurs was acknowledged for her 20 years of service, which saw her take on many roles during her career. She’s attended 526 callouts, with her first taking place on Christmas Eve.
Rogelio Rojas received a 10 Year CFA Service Medal for his time at the Warburton CFA, where he was treasurer from 2017-2026 and received a Unit Citation for Courage medal for his role at the 2019-20 Mallacoota bushfires.
Mr McIntosh said the breadth of experience
held by Warburton CFA’s members meant it was the perfect place for newcomers to learn.
“We’ve got a lot of new recruits that have come through this year, and they’ve been under their wings as well, learning stuff about what not to do around fires — especially some of the bigger fires that both these gentlemen have actually fought over the years,” he said.
But, the brigade could always do with more members and encouraged any interested locals to consider joining.
“We’ve always got room for more volunteers, so if anybody is out there thinking about joining, come along, have a talk to us on either a Wednesday night or a Sunday morning when we train.”
Healesville local urges community to band together for safe public transport. (File: 275115).
L-R: CFA Commander Blake Ross and Warburton CFA members Timothy Dracup, Rogelio Rojas, Barry Marshall, Emma Van Meurs, Raymond Lynch, Warren Unthank, Christopher Ireland (accepting for father Richard Ireland) and Ron McIntosh. (Supplied)
Species-saving efforts
By Oliver Winn
A network of community-led conservation groups in the Yarra Valley is celebrating Landcare Week in early August, raising awareness around the crucial work done by volunteers to keep the environment healthy.
The Nangana Landcare Network consists of four local conservation groups who have teamed up to improve the environment across the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.
Its vice president, Jenny Lyndon, said one of its member groups, the Friends of the Helmeted Honeyeater (FOHH) was worth celebrating for its efforts to save the helmeted honeyeater from extinction.
“We’re not doing anything special because we just keep going… Everything we do is important and significant because we’re working on maintaining a critically threatened species that’s one bush fire away from extinction,” she said.
The story starts in 1983, when only a single helmeted honeyeater population remained in Yellingbo, due to years of habitat destruction by humans and the Ash Wednesday bushfires.
Community conservationists then formed FOHH in 1989 and their persistence to save this special species has paid off, with 200 birds on three sites in the wild.
In 2017, FOHH teamed up with three other landcare groups, Macclesfield Landcare, Johns Hill Landcare and Monbulk Landcare, to join an initiative called Beyond Yellingbo. It shifted focus from protecting a remnant land to rebuilding an entire landscape for the helmeted honeyeater to thrive in.
The Beyond Yellingbo initiative then led to the formation of the Nangana Landcare Network in 2021.
Ms Lyndon said Nangana Landcare Network’s goal was to manage conservation for the entire Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges through a project called C411 Country.
“We’re at the stage of doing a conservation action plan, which will provide us with the framework to manage conservation… over the whole of the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges…. 128,000 hectares.”
The national body for landcare, Landcare Australia, released its 2026 National Landcare Week Survey for Landcare Week, which revealed a growing movement of Australians embracing local environmental action.
Out of the nationally representative sample of 1200 people, 83 per cent of Australians said they regularly helped care for their local environment.
Landcare Australia Chair Peter Garrett AM said the findings showed how Australians who are a part of networks such as Nangana Landcare are ready to be part of the solution.
“This survey tells us Australians choose to volunteer because they care about nature and they value being part of their community.
“When you support landcare, you’re investing in healthier landscapes, stronger communities and thousands of Australians, including the next generation, who want to be part of the solution.”
But Mr Garrett said climate change was posing a growing challenge to the environment, landcare networks and their volunteers.
Ms Lyndon echoed the sentiment and said the impact of the climate crisis was “quite scary”
“In the wider scheme of things, the biodiversity loss across the globe… is just awful. I
Planting effort boosts outcomes
By Oliver Winn
A partnership between council and a local environmental friends group strengthened the ecological value of the Woori Yallock Creek on Sunday 19 July.
Taking place on National Tree Day, the community planting event saw 1000 plants installed by members from the Friends of the Creek group and the Yarra Ranges Council’s Bushland team.
The planting was completed with the help of 20 community members, and it will lead to healthier animal habitats, better protection for the creek, and improved ecological value.
The Friends of the Creek group is part of the Seville Community House and has been planting in the area since last year.
Seville Community House manager Stacie Adams said the group had a “real passion” for taking care of the area’s waterways.
“They have a real passion for the environment and for wanting to make the space a sustainable resource for the future,” Ms Adams said.
“Everybody seemed to have a really great time just getting involved and doing something for the environment, for the community, for everyone to be able to enjoy that space better.”
Yarra Ranges Council director of planning and sustainable futures, Kath McClusky, said the effort expanded on five years of active planting along the Woori Yallock Creek.
“Our efforts over five years to plant 16,000 native species are starting to pay off. Plants are now large enough to shade and cool the waterway, secure the creekbank to prevent erosion during storm events and provide nutrients to and remove pollutants from storm water.
“We’re thankful that these community members came out on the crisp, but sunny, morning to get their hands dirty to help their local environment,” Ms McClusky said.
Though the planting area is fairly urbanised, the waterway is teeming with native wildlife, including the endangered Gang Gang Cockatoo and iconic platypus.
The area planted out includes an old billabong, which will help to retain water in the landscape and provide a much-needed refuge for species during the drier months.
Ms Adams said the planting would also improve the area for use by the local community.
mean, you know, it’s all being held together with stringing band aids by little groups like us who are volunteer and unpaid,” Ms Lyndon said.
The survey highlighted exactly this, as 59 per cent of respondents said it is becoming harder to recruit volunteers.
Meanwhile, 66 per cent believed better funding would make the biggest difference to the work they can achieve.
Ms Lyndon said the State Government was not “supporting landcare sufficiently”
“It’s really important that Landcare networks get at least a slight bit of paid support.
“It’s just really hard to organise things, and if you have a paid facilitator, they can do a lot of the grunt work.”
She encouraged those who want to join the Nangana Landcare Network to get in touch with their local landcare group.
“They would like to see it be able to be used safely by the community for mental health reasons, for social reasons, you know, for people to be able to go out and enjoy walking along the creek, to be able to enjoy the nature, you know, all of those things, but also for the wildlife to enjoy that space,” Ms Adams said.
Ms McClusky said the creek will be further enhanced as groups continue to plant in the area.
“In early August the final planting along the creek for the year will take place in partnership with the Mahameneva Buddhist Meditation Monastery, with joint plantings between Council and the monastery taking place each of the past five years,” Ms McClusky said. Those who are interested in getting involved with the Friends of the Creek group can reach out to the Seville Community House via the link: sevillecommhouse. org.au.
L-R: FOHH volunteers Ian Rumbold, Linda Sijpkes and Anne Bowtell work hard on a Thursday morning. (568657)
L-R: FOHH member Steph Ross, Nangana Landcare Network vice president Jenny Lyndon and FOHH member Robin Young. (Stewart Chambers: 568657)
Friends of the Creek partnered with Yarra Ranges Council to plant along the Woori Yallock Creek. (Supplied)
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Probus marks
five decades
By Mikayla van
A grand celebration fit for a major milestone was held on Thursday 30 July to mark 50 years of Probus in Australia.
The Probus Association of Victoria (PAV) committee hosted an afternoon high tea at the Chirnside Park Country Club, bringing together 154 members to celebrate the occasion.
Probus club members travelled from near and far, with representatives from Blackburn Combined, Chisholm, Croydon Park, Emerald Ladies, Essendon, Heathmonth Ladies, Keysborough, Knoxfield Ladies, Mitcham-Nunawading, Monash, Mooroolbark, Olinda, Rowville-Lysterfield, Seymour, Tunstall Combined and Wheelers Hill.
Compere and delegate Anne Vick said while individual clubs have celebrated the 50-year milestone in their own ways, this was a wonderful way to bring people together.
“It’s 50 years that we’re celebrating with all these lovely people who come from far and wide,” she said.
Probus ambassador, Olinda Probus member, and keynote speaker for the event, Helen Holliday, spoke of the abundance in our lives in modern society compared to generations before, but also how it had led to complacency.
“We are so fortunate to live in a country where abundance is everywhere in our lives. We have everything, more or less at our fingertips, from love to lemons,” she said.
“We have so much abundance in our lives, and yet, we all seem to be time-poor…Complacency is something that seems to creep into societies that have abundance. We assume that the good things and good times will go on forever.”
Ms Holliday said this complacency could not be extended to the running of Probus clubs, especially when it comes to drawing new members.
She spoke of when her “bright idea” to start a Probus club in Olinda 21 years ago sparked, there was already a 120-member strong club in Monbulk.
But over time, committee members grew tired of their roles and new, younger members weren’t joining, seeing numbers dwindle to just 20 before the decision to shut was made.
“This is what we must all remember that if you want your club to survive, one thing is absolutely certain - you must continue to attract new, younger members,” she said.
Whether it’s joining the committee, organising a new activity like a dog walking group, or learning computer skills to share with the club, Ms Holliday said members should use their own curiosity, creativity and hobbies to drum up ideas for their clubs.
“Let your club be the abundant, thriving club in your area, and never let complacency and in-
dolence take over,” she said.
“Probus clubs tick all the boxes for social abundance.”
Probus ambassador Anne Oughtibridge OAM joined her first ladies club after she retired in 1998.
She served as president of Ringwood East Ladies Club in 2000, president of Melbourne Outer Eastern Region in 2003, foundation president and life member of Maroondah Combined, and foundation president and life member of Ringwood Clocktower.
As an ambassador for Probus clubs in the east and a member of Croydon Park Probus, Ms Oughtibridge said providing interesting activities and opportunities for members was key to a club’s success.
“A lot of people say, ‘What’s Probus?’ They have no idea. I’m in Melbourne East Probus Club, and 32 clubs joined it,” she said.
“We mainly concentrate on the number of speakers we have, because if you get a good speaker, you get people at the meeting, and then the other one is tours.”
Promoting club collaboration to share speakers and organise tours together, Ms Oughtibridge said, was one of her biggest tasks.
In a previous role, Ms Oughtibridge was a tour leader, to which she said, “I’ve been overseas about 13 times, taking groups. It was magic.”
Within her own club in Croydon Park, Ms Oughtibridge said the array of activities was essential to draw in members. The club provides 27 different opportunities.
Everything from cards and bowls to dine-out lunches and theatre, each club offers something different to mould to their members’ interests.
The 50th anniversary celebration was filled with games and raffles, jokes and wonderful conversations.
Maroondah City Council Mayor Linda Hancock presented a certificate of gratitude and recognition to PAV president Cheryl Hunt to mark the formalities.
“As a council, we really value the support you give our community: a place to be social, a place to belong, activities to keep the mind going, the laughter,” Cr Hancock said.
“It’s nice to be appreciated for what we do. I think we all enjoy these years when we retire. We don’t know what we’re going to do, but all of a sudden we join Probus and we make new friends, and it does a lot for your mental health,” Ms Hunt said.
The first Probus club in Australia was established in Hunters Hill in February 1976 and, for 50 years, clubs have encouraged older Australians to engage socially within their communities. Find your local Probus club by visiting probussouthpacific.org
PAV secretary Fran McLean (centre) with Peter Kemp (President) and Judy Kemp from the Keysborough Probus Club. (566075)
Deb Cruddas from Croydon Park Probus having a laugh. (566075)
Croydon Park Probus Club members. Back row: Peter Johnson, Greg Boland, Bernice Boland, Sue Dench and Sandra Baker. Front row: Jane Johnson, Sally Larwood (President) and Deb Cruddas. (566075)
Olinda Probus Club members. Back row: Kurt Seemann, Graham Fly, Helen Holliday and Dinah Hornung. Front row: Bunni Perich, Stephanie Mirams, Anne Jarrett and Jenna Jacks. (566075)
Wheelers Hill Probus members. Back row: Noel, Rose, Colin, Joan, Lydia and Zina. Front row: Val, Tina and Sheila. (566075)
Probus ambassador Anne Oughtibridge OAM, Maroondah Mayor Linda Hancock, Probus ambassador Helen Holliday, Probus Association president Cheryl Hunt and delegate Anne Vick. (Stewart Chambers: 566075)
The Chirnside Park Country Club saw 154 Probus members descend to celebrate 50 years. (566075)
Bernice Boland (Committee) and PAV treasurer Betty Robinson. (566075)
Probus ambassador, Olinda Probus member, and keynote speaker Helen Holliday. (566075)
Colin from Wheelers Hill Probus enjoying the event. (566075)
Loon
SENIOR LIVING
Celebrate aged care champions
All Australians are invited to join Ageing Australia and say a massive ‘thanks for caring’ to the dedicated and compassionate care workforce to mark Aged Care Employee Day on Friday 7 August.
Their care is personal, selfless and often unsung – making a difference in the lives of older Australians every single day.
Aged care, retirement living and seniors housing providers, along with residents, clients, families and loved ones, are gearing up to show their appreciation with morning and afternoon teas, celebrations and heartfelt messages of thanks to the dedicated workers who care for their loved ones.
From leaders and nurses to personal care workers, allied health professionals, volunteers, cleaners, chefs, cooks, maintenance workers, gardeners, administrators, and more, every role contributes to the wellbeing of older Australians.
Currently there are around 456,000 aged care workers in Australia, with approximately 1.3 million Australians receiving aged care services.
Ageing Australia knows how essential the aged care workforce is in helping older Australians to age well. Aged Care Employee Day is an opportunity to recognise the skill, com-
passion and dedication of the people who make this possible every day.
It is an opportunity for communities, organisations and individuals across Australia to recognise these people who care for and support older Australians.
The winners of the Ageing Australia You are ACE! Awards will also be announced on the day, with finalists published on Thursday 30 July, as chosen from the over 470 You are ACE! nominations received throughout the year.
Thank an aged care employee this Friday 7 August. (File)
Village now open
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SENIOR LIVING
When
When is it time for aged care? It is one of the hardest questions a family can face.
There is no single moment that answers the question. For most families in the Yarra Valley, the realisation comes gradually, through a series of small signs that collectively paint a picture of someone who needs more support than they are currently getting.
Falls are one of the most significant warning signs. A single fall can be a serious event for an older person, and repeated falls suggest that the home environment or the person’s mobility has changed in ways that are difficult to manage safely without support. Other safety concerns include leaving the stove on, forgetting medication, or getting lost in familiar places. These are not signs of stubbornness. They are signs that 24-hour support may be what is genuinely needed.
Personal care declining is another indicator. If your loved one has stopped bathing regularly, lost significant weight, or is no longer managing meals properly, there is a point at which the level of support required exceeds what can realistically be delivered at home.
If you are a carer yourself, your own wellbeing matters too. Carer exhaustion is real and serious. If you are not sleeping, your health is declining, or you feel you cannot continue at the current level, that is important information. Residential aged care is not giving up on someone you love. It is making sure they receive the care they need from people trained and supported to provide it around the clock.
For families caring for someone living with dementia, the progression of the condition often brings a point at which home care is no longer safe or sufficient. Wandering, nighttime disturbance, and the inability to recognise familiar surroundings are all signs that specialist care in a safe, prepared environment may be the right next step.
When you are ready to explore options, the
it time for aged care?
yourself to a happy life at Holmwood Aged Care in Healesville.
first practical step is a free assessment through My Aged Care on 1800 200 422. Once eligibility is confirmed, visit a few facilities, meet the teams, and ask whatever is on your mind. Holmwood Aged Care, Healesville For over 40 years, Holmwood has supported older Australians with compassionate, 24/7 care in the heart of the Yarra Valley. To arrange a personal tour or speak with our team about care options, contact us on 03 5962 4321 or visit holmwood.com.au
(Supplied)
Retirement living with heart
Where the Yarra Valley meets the Dandenong Ranges, Lilydale Valley Views offers more than a place to live, it’s a vibrant community where retirement is enjoyed to the fullest.
For over 15 years, the village has grown into a welcoming environment where residents feel at home. With 139 residences, including semi attached two and three bedroom units and cosy terraces, there is a style to suit every preference.
Whether it’s sweeping valley views or the ease of low maintenance living, each home is designed for comfort and connection.
Lifestyle is at the heart of Lilydale Valley Views. A heated indoor pool and spa provide year round relaxation, while Tai Chi, dancercise, and other group activities keep minds and bodies active. The village bus makes shopping stress free with convenient door to door service.
A strong sense of community sets the village apart. The resident social committee organises a calendar filled with outings, celebrations, and casual get togethers, ensuring there are always opportunities to connect. Friendships form quickly and newcomers are warmly welcomed, making it easy to feel part of the community from day one.
The location adds to the appeal. Doctors, supermarkets, and the train station are all within walking distance, while the nearby Warburton Trail offers scenic walks and bike rides. On site, a thriving veggie and flower garden brings people together in the simple pleasure of growing and sharing.
It is this blend of convenience, activity, and companionship that makes Lilydale Valley Views such a special place. Here, retirement is not about slowing down, but about enjoying life surrounded by people who value the same. We invite you to experience it for yourself. Discover the comfort of terrace living, the beauty of the views, and the warmth of a truly connected community. For more information, visit us at 471 Ma-
roondah Highway, Lilydale, email manager@ lilydalevalleyviews.com.au, or call 03 9735 5944 to speak with our manager, Rosemary Seymour. Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm.
A better retirement lifestyle
Be part of a vibrant Community and enjoy the Facilities
Close to all amenities - health professionals, Supermarkets, public transport
Village volunteers can assists you around the house
Monthly calendar of events
24 Hour Emergency Assistance
Fully equipped gym
Heated indoor pool
Hairdresser, Massage & Podiatry services
4-rink Bowling Green
Entertainment Lounge Library and Computer Room
Come see if Lilydale Valley Views is the place for you or your loved ones. (Supplied)
SENIOR LIVING
Support close to home
As we move through different stages of life, it’s natural to experience change, whether it’s adjusting to retirement, managing health concerns, coping with loss, or simply feeling more isolated than we once did. These moments can sometimesfeeloverwhelming,butit’simportant to remember that support is available, and you don’t have to go through it alone.
The Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Lilydale (servicing Yarra Ranges) is here to offer free, welcoming support for adults aged 26 and over. Whether you need a one-off conversation or ongoing support, the support you receive will be tailored to meet your needs.
You will be supported by a caring team of mental health professionals and peer navigators with lived experience. They take the time to listen, without judgement, helping you feel heard, respected, and supported.
Reaching out can sometimes feel like a big step, but accessing support has been made simple. There is no need for a referral, Medicare card, or payment. You can connect when you feel ready, in a way that feels comfortable for you. This could be a phone call, a visit to the local centre, or even outreach support if getting there is difficult.
Importantly, the service recognises that support is not one-size-fits-all. Some people may be looking for help navigating practical challenges, while others may just want someone to talk to. Whatever your situation, the focus is on building wellbeing, connection, and confidence.
Formanyseniormembersofourcommunity, having a trusted, local place to turn to can make all the difference. Staying connected and supported is not only beneficial for mental health, but also for overall wellbeing and quality of life. If you, or someone you know, could benefit from a conversation or extra support, help is available close to home.
You can call 1300 000 252 to speak with some-
Street, Lilydale during weekday hours
Looking after your mental health is for all stages of life. (iStock)
SENIOR LIVING
Home brings outdoors in
Hamlet Living now selling ‘The Hamilton’ from $905,000.
Beside Bellbird Park and Lillydale Lake, Hamlet Living has launched a boutique community for the over-50s.
With just 50 homes, a welcoming clubhouse, and more than three hectares of green space to wander, sit in, or simply look out over. It’s a different way to live, and there’s nothing quite like it in the region.
This ethos runs through every home, including the newest design to join the collection, the Hamilton. It started with one question: how can you make the outdoors something you use every day, not just look at?
The answer is a generous covered alfresco at the heart of the home, an extension of the living room itself. A suntrap for slow coffees in the morning, and for dinners that run long into the evening.
Inside, living areas and private spaces are thoughtfully separated, giving the home an easy, settled rhythm. Two well-proportioned bedrooms and a central bathroom sit away from the guest powder room and utility area, so nothing ever feels crowded or compromised. And a double garage means there’s room for whatever makes life rich; bikes, tools or the craft table. It features:
• Full-width rear alfresco for effortless indoor–outdoor living.
• Light-filled open plan kitchen, living and dining area.
• Generous and beautifully appointed kitchen including Fisher & Paykel appliances.
• Clever Jack and Jill bedroom arrangement with shared walk-in wardrobe and private ensuite access.
• Convenient separate powder room for guests.
• Direct garage access to both the laundry and kitchen for everyday convenience.
• Double glazing, underfloor, wall and ceiling insulation for comfort in every season.
• Spacious double car garage.
• Distinctive reverse gable roof design.
For more information on the Hamilton, or to book a conversation with the team, visit hamletliving.com.au, or call 0482 672 325. The
Hamilton is the newest design to join the collection. (Supplied)
Soak
Parkside Living at Hamlet Lilydale
Lilydale is a boutique community of 50 homes, nestled beside Bellbird Park and Lillydale Lake. Step outside to 100 hectares of parkland for morning dog
When village life is what you’re after, your favourite café, a wander through the shops, a train into the city are just 2km away.
This is Lilydale living, the way it’s meant to be. An over 50s community set in Lilydale’s most desirable pocket. Limited selection of homes now selling from $845,000.
Hamlet
DENTAL HEALTH WEEK
available at the clinic.
in your long-term health. At Valley Dental Family Clinic in Lilydale, the experienced team is committed to helping patients of all ages achieve and maintain healthy smiles for life.
Conveniently located at Lilydale Marketplace,
Valley Dental is a welcoming all-female practice owned by Dr Rupali Prabhu and Dr Sonali Prabhu. Together with dentist Dr Mehraz, they have created a caring, professional environment where patients feel comfortable, supported and confident in their dental care.
With more than 25 years of experience, Dr Rupali Prabhu has worked across both private practice and community dental clinics throughout Melbourne and regional Victoria. She is passionate about delivering high-quality dental care
while ensuring every patient enjoys a relaxed and positive experience. Her warm and friendly nature helps put even the most anxious patients at ease, proving that a visit to the dentist can be a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Dr Sonali Prabhu has been caring for patients since graduating in 2003 and believes that a healthy mouth is the gateway to better overall health. She enjoys all aspects of dentistry and has a particular passion for working with older patients, taking the time to ensure everyone feels comfortable throughout their visit.
Completing the experienced dental team is Dr Mehraz, who joined Valley Dental two years ago and has quickly become a valued member of the practice. With more than a decade of experience, Dr Mehraz is passionate about providing worldclass dental care for every patient and has a special interest in aesthetic dentistry. She is currently undertaking further study in cosmetic dentistry, expanding the range of cosmetic treatments
From routine check-ups and preventative care through to fillings, crowns, bridges, veneers and cosmetic treatments, Valley Dental offers comprehensive dental services for the whole family. The team believes that prevention is always better than cure, encouraging regular dental examinations to help identify problems early and keep smiles healthy for years to come.
To celebrate Dental Health Week, now is the ideal time to book your next appointment. Valley Dental is currently offering a check-up, professional clean and two X-rays for just $195, along with in-chair teeth whitening for $450.
To book an appointment, phone 9737 6453 or visit Valley Dental Family Clinic at Shop 43, Lilydale Marketplace, Hutchinson Street, Lilydale, next door to Lowes. Experience compassionate, personalised dental care from a team dedicated to helping every patient smile with confidence.
Put your smile first with the Valley Dental team. (File)
DENTAL HEALTH WEEK
A practice that genuinely cares
A visit to the dentist doesn’t have to feel like something to dread. At Evergreen Dental Care, the whole team is committed to giving every patient a welcoming, relaxed experience, backed by high-quality care from start to finish.
Evergreen Dental Care is a locally-owned practice in the centre of Wandin North, proudly serving the Yarra Valley community for over five years. With six dental providers, a warm reception team and dedicated dental assistants, everyone shares the same philosophy: treat every patient like family.
That care shows up in the small things as much as the big ones; from staff who take the time to explain every step of your treatment, to the practice’s much-loved comfort dog, who’ll say hello to just about anyone in the waiting room.
Of course, genuine care means little without genuine expertise behind it. The Evergreen Dental Care team offers a full range of general, family and children’s dentistry, along with cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, wisdom tooth extractions, orthodontics and teeth-whitening. Each treatment is delivered with the same unhurried, thorough and compassionate approach that the practice is known for.
For new patients, there’s never been an easier time to get started. Evergreen Dental Care’s New Patient Offer includes a comprehensive dental examination, scale and polish, fluoride treatment, all required x-rays, digital photographs and a personalised treatment plan for just $249. If your private health fund covers $249 or more, you’ll pay absolutely nothing out-of-pocket.
Families are especially welcome at Evergreen Dental Care. Kids can receive a full checkup and clean for just $170, and for eligible families, the practice proudly accepts the Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), which provides up to $1,158 of general dental treatment for eligible children over two years -
at no cost to families.
Evergreen Dental Care accepts all major health funds, and offers payment plans through Zip Pay, Afterpay and Denticare, making quality
dental care accessible for the whole family. Whether you’re after a routine check-up, searching for a new family dentist, or simply want to see what this Wandin dream-team is all
about, Evergreen Dental Care welcomes new faces with open arms. Book an appointment online at evergreendentalcare.com.au, or call 03 5929 3011 to get in touch today.
Dr Vincent, Madi, Ollie the dog, Darsh, Ellie, Hollie, Jess, India and Baz from Evergreen Dental. (Stewart Chambers: 567528)
Poets take to the stage
By Gabriella Vukman
The creative talents of Healesville Primary School’s Year 3 and 4 students will be on full display next week as they present a special poetry recital showcasing weeks of learning, writing and practice.
Families and invited guests are welcome to attend the recital on Friday, 7 August, from 9am to 11am, when students will perform a range of poetry in their classrooms, including original works and classic Australian verse.
Throughout the term, students have explored Australian poetry with a particular focus on ‘My Country’ by Dorothea Mackellar, using the iconic poem as inspiration to create their own pieces.
Teacher at Healesville Primary School Alexandra Bryan said the unit had given students the opportunity to build confidence while developing important literacy skills.
“All levels of readers find enjoyment and success when they read poetry,” she said.
“It is so rewarding for the students when they stand up in front of the class and read with confidence.”
Ms Bryan said the study of ‘My Country’ also helped students develop a greater appreciation of Australia’s unique environment.
“Focusing on My Country by Dorothea Mackellar has given our students an appreciation for how beautiful Australia is.”
“It also links in well with our geography unit and looking at different landscapes and climate zones in Australia.”
Students have explored a variety of poetry styles throughout the unit, including haikus, cinquains, colour poems and innovative pieces inspired by famous Australian poets.
Grade 3 student Otto said he had enjoyed studying poetry.
“It has been pretty fun. Some of it does get a bit annoying if you are doing it for a long time, but it’s been pretty good.”
When asked how he was feeling ahead of the recital, Otto said he was “Excited!”
Fellow classmate Sadie will be reading out the poem ‘When Winter Comes’ at the recital, and said she had also enjoyed preparing.
“My favorite part about the poem I am reading is the ending,” she said.
Alongside the recital, the students have produced a collection of original poems inspired by colour, nature, feelings, sport and everyday life.
Their work encompasses topics of family memories, favourite foods and Australian landscapes.
Healesville Primary School hopes members of the community will enjoy celebrating the students’ achievements and learn to enjoy poetry the same way they have.
Poems from the Grade 3 and 4 students at Healesville Primary School
Colour Poem by Sadie
Blue looks like the cool ocean.
Blue feels like the warmth of a wave.
Blue smells like the salty water.
Blue tastes like the sweetness of a blueberry
Blue sounds like the chirping of a blue wren.
Blue reminds me of the beautiful beach.
Cinquain poem by Jacey
Carrots
Crunchy, orange
Crunching, munching, eating
Carrots are pretty good
Vegetables
Feelings poem by Rylee
Happiness is being friends with Evie
Sadness is being alone
Lonely is when people don’t let me play with them
Energetic is when I have too much sugar
Boredom is being sick at home with nothing to do
Annoyed is when people touch my stuff without permission
Cozy is when I’m at home playing my laptop in bed
Grateful is when my dad booked me into gymnastics
Colour Poem by Lyla
Aqua looks like the most beautiful thing you get to see in summer.
The hot blazing sun glistening on the ocean.
Aqua smells like seaweed and the salty ocean with the spongy sea coral.
Aqua feels like the hot burning sand on my feet and the cold sea water.
Aqua tastes like the cold salty water sting on my tongue.
Aqua sounds like the waves coming into the shore.
Aqua reminds me of eating ice-cream on the sea shore and surfing through waves.
Blue sounds like the happiness of children playing.
Blue smells like fresh flowers.
Blue tastes like salty sea water.
Blue feels like the freezing, cold ocean water. Blue reminds me of the happiest playground ever.
Baby Pink by Savannah Baby pink looks like strawberry fairy floss.
Baby pink sounds like laughing with friends. Baby pink smells like strong watermelon lollies.
Baby pink feels calm like the ocean waves.
Baby pink reminds me of the time I got strawberry icecream.
Chum Creek Primary School celebrates 100 days of prep
By Gabriella Vukman
Giggles echoed throughout the bush as Chum Creek Primary School celebrated 100 days of prep on Monday 27 July.
Lined with an array of decorations, the classroom was abuzz with the excitement of seven Preps and their fellow seven Grade 1 students. Prep teacher at Chum Creek Primary School Samantha Holman said the first 100 days of school is a period of much growth for young learners.
“100 days of Prep is such a special day because it marks a huge milestone in the Preps’ year.”
“Our Prep students have made incredible progress and are now reading, writing and developing their mathematical thinking,” she said.
“Along the way, they have been supported by our wonderful Year 1 students, who have embraced their role as mentors by helping the Preps learn classroom routines, class games and positive behaviour expectations.”
Preps celebrated their 100 days with plenty of counting exercises.
Ms Holman said, counting the days of school in particular, is an integral part of the school’s daily mathematics routine.
“Students explore the day’s number in a variety of hands-on ways using an abacus, MAB blocks, ten frames, numeral tiles, number lines and our marble chart,” she said.
“Every child has an active role to play, making this a highly engaging learning experience that builds number sense, confidence and teamwork.”
“It has become one of the favourite parts of our day.”
Students also put together bags containing 100 mystery items.
“Children have brought in 100 of a household item, such as paperclips, dried beans, stickers or buttons - hidden inside a paper bag,” Ms Holman said.
“They challenged their classmates to guess the contents using carefully prepared clues before revealing the surprise. Once solved, each collection of 100 items was proudly displayed.”
Six-year-old Prep Sullivan said he enjoyed the day’s celebrations.
“We have been catching bean bags and I got to wear a jumper with wiggly eyes,” he said.
“Playing snakes and ladders was my favourite,” Sullivan said of the day’s activities.
Looking forward to starting Grade 1, Sullivan said he has enjoyed the subject maths most of all this year.
Family members were invited along to the school to celebrate with the class, participating in group activities and getting to know the classroom environment.
Fellow prep student Fern said she enjoyed all of the counting activities throughout the day.
“We got to count 100 squishy balls and put them into a box,” she said.
“It was my favorite activity because the balls were soft.”
Collecting 100 leaves together with her classmates was another highlight for Fern.
“Some of the leaves were brown, some of them were light green.”
“Some of them were really colourful,” she said.
School has been an enjoyable experience for Fern, who said her excitement from starting her first day of Prep hasn’t left her yet.
“On the first day I went to prep I was so excited,” she said.
“And I still am!”
With 89 instructional school days left for the preps of Chum Creek Primary this year, teachers and students alike look forward to a positive entry into Grade 1 next year.
Healesville Primary School’s Lila, Emma, Izzy and Lily practising reading their poems together. (Alexandra Bryan).
Sullivan and his family celebrating 100 days of prep. (Gabriella Vukman: 568235).
Decorations adorned the classroom. (Gabriella Vukman: 568235).
Uncovering Healesville
By Gabriella Vukman
Plenty of Healesville’s hidden historical gems were revealed on Monday 27 July as the Healesville Club of Rotary was joined by local historian Bryn Jones for a talk on ‘Things you didn’t know about Healesville.’
From the machinations of Richard Heales (former premier of Victoria, and namesake of Healesville), to the seedy downtown dive Mayfair Cafe, which used to stand next to the MEMO, the topics of Mr Jones’ talk were well enjoyed by Healesville’s local rotarians.
President of the Rotary Club of Healesville Terry Hill said Mr Jones’ talk was ‘excellent.’
“It was a great evening.”
“As soon as the talk finished everyone said ‘no, it can’t stop there,’ even though we extended it to be longer than planned,” Mr Hill said.
“We will definitely be bringing Bryn back for another session.”
Among the unknown elements of Healesville’s history featured in Mr Jones’ talk was the fact that the river flats behind the Healesville Greenspace were at one stage earmarked for aeronautical use.
According to Mr Jones, in 1929 the area was flattened out in order to build an aerodrome.
Four planes landed on the cleared strip on a day titled ‘Aviation Day ’ which saw approximately 1000 people come to Healesville to watch the spectacle.
After realising the flats were a floodplain and were not suitable for aviation, the aerodrome dream was quickly washed away, leaving the land for farming purposes in its wake.
Congruously, later in the 1950s, the local council proposed the same flats be artificially flooded and turned into a lake, but the plan was quickly rejected.
Mr Jones’ talk also depicted the foundational financial contributions of one of Healesville’s wealthiest families to the Royal Women’s Hospital in Melbourne.
Mr Jones said he happily agreed to conduct Monday’s talk, having known Mr Hill for many years.
When asked which story he shared was his favourite, Mr Jones said he had many.
“I have too many favourites, but I do like the 1890s when so much was developing in the town in terms of buildings, organisations and tourism.”
Mr Jones will be conducting another ‘Things you didn’t know about Healesville’ talk in October at the Healesville library.
All members of the community are welcome to attend.
The Rotary Club of Healesville is looking forward to hosting its next guest speaker, Victor Perton, on Monday 17 August for a talk on all things positivity.
The event is free, and members of the local community are welcome to attend.
Timbers in Kilsyth has long been a trusted name for quality timber, building supplies and expert service throughout Melbourne’s eastern suburbs. The business is now entering an exciting new chapter, with Jarrad Peters and Chris Shambrook recently taking over the company, bringing with them a combined 40 years of experience in the building and timber industry.
Both Jarrad and Chris are family men with young families of their own, giving them a strong appreciation for the importance of community, local connections and supporting other families and businesses across the region.
Their extensive knowledge and passion for the trade place Mountain Timbers in strong hands as they continue the tradition of providing outstanding service to local builders, tradespeople and home renovators. Both Jarrad and Chris understand the importance of quality products, reliable advice and building lasting relationships with customers and the wider community. Serving customers across the region, Mountain Timbers has earned a reputation as a trusted destination for everything from structural timber and decking materials to builders hardware and construction supplies. Whether tackling a large building project or a weekend renovation, customers know they can rely on the experienced team for practical support and expert guidance.
Jarrad and Chris are committed to preserving the values that have made Mountain Timbers a respected local business while also bringing fresh ideas and energy to its future growth. Their vision is focused on supporting local trades, helping homeowners bring their projects to life and ensuring the business remains a valuable part of the Kilsyth community for many years to come.
The dedicated team at Mountain Timbers continues to be one of the company’s greatest strengths. With years of experience and a strong understanding of the industry, staff members work closely with customers to recommend the right products and solutions for every project, no matter the size or complexity.
As the industry continues to evolve, Mountain Timbers is embracing new opportunities while staying true to its local roots. Reliable delivery services, a comprehensive product range and a commitment to customer satisfaction ensure the business remains a trusted partner for builders and renovators alike.
With Jarrad Peters and Chris Shambrook at the helm, and a combined 40 years of industry experience behind them, Mountain Timbers is well positioned to build on its proud legacy and continue serving the community with the quality and service it has become known for.
Aviation Day in Healesville (Supplied by Bryn Jones).
Rotarians also learned that Hall’s Corner in Healesville used to be a blacksmith shop before transitioning into a garage after horses were outnumbered by cars. (Supplied by Bryn Jones).
Mountain
Fires, food and festivities
By Gabriella Vukman
The streets of Healesville were thrumming with life on the evening of Friday 24 July, as residents and visitors alike flocked to the town for its annual Nocturne event.
Amidst the sizzling of sausages and crackling of woodfires, the sounds of chinking glasses and chipper chatter echoed throughout the town, rendering this year’s Nocturne night the most successful yet.
Organised by Healesville Traders Incorporated, the event was sponsored by Four Pillars Gin and included an array of activities including Face-painting, a community raffle with prizes donated by local traders, art exhibitions, crafts and storytime at Healesville Library, a live DJ at Barrique Wine Store, marshmallow toasting and live painting to name a few.
Healesville local and salesperson at Ver-
so Books Shannon Ryan said the event was a huge success.
“We were really excited to see whether the community still wanted a winter event this year,” she said.
“The turnout was amazing.”
“Everyone was in such great spirits and we had so much fun.”
Ms Ryan said she was surprised by the sheer volume of customers who turned up at Verso books.
“The crowd definitely rivalled the Christmas shopping night that we do,” she said.
“I wish I had been able to get out onto the street but we were just so busy that I didn’t even get to walk by to see what everyone else had set up.”
Being cooped up in the shop aside, Ms Ryan said events like Healesville’s Nocturne night are vital for the local community.
“Events like this are super important for our community,” she said.
“The Traders’ really do put it on as a way to say thank you to the community for all of their support throughout the year, and it was a really great turnout.”
“It was just delightful to see so many familiar and friendly faces.”
Maybe something more like Former Healesville local Matt Heathcote and his son Andrew returned to the town and met up with his Mum and sister for Friday’s event
“It was great to see so many people out on a cold night enjoying the festivities,” Mr Heathcote said.
“For something that was just a bit of food and some shops open late, it was a great turnout.”
More than 25 businesses, galleries, eateries and community organisations took part in
Nocturne, with participating venues stretching from Healesville’s main street to the Makers Quarter precinct.
Retailers including Linen House, Verso Books, Creswick Woollen Mills and Silvermist Studio offered seasonal specials and exclusive shopping experiences, while food and drink venues such as My Little Kitchen, Peachy, Cheesemonger Sophie, Jayden Ong Winery & Cellar Bar, Healesville Hotel and Barrique Wine Store served up winter warmers ranging from soups, fondue and raclette to mulled wine, cocktails and wine tastings.
The event also featured live art by Yarra Valley Arts and Cindy’s Studio, family activities at Healesville Library and Whimsical Creatives, and community sausage sizzles hosted by Healesville CFA and Robyn Jane Children’s Centre, creating a vibrant evening celebrating local business, creativity and community.
Artisans assemble at Wandin Rotary’s arts showcase
By Oliver Winn
Budding Yarra Valley creatives flocked on down to the Rotary Club of Wandin’s Creative Artisans Village on Sunday 26 July, marking a successful second iteration of the event.
Taking place at the Wandin North Hall, the event once again platformed the works of proud artists from the Yarra Valley area.
Local stallholders offered a variety of handmade pieces, a performance was put on by young violinist Arielle, and Zumba classes got people moving.
At 50 metres long, the world’s largest crochet eel, Zoe, was out on display in all her colourful brilliance, surrounding the room and welcoming everyone to sit with her in her underwater house. Rotary Club of Wandin member Jeanette Jensen said the second Creative Artisans Village was a “spectacular event”
“This candle-lit event brightened the winter and created a space for people to come together and for visitors to just enjoy and be inspired,” she said.
Young entrepreneur Lori pioneered her organic beeswax lip balm stall, the Wandin Crafting Group saw the old pass on crocheting skills to the young, and Marie from Casa Infinity ran her Zumba class.
Ms Jensen thanked friends of the Wandin Rotary: Monica, Allan, Claudie, Pauline and Francis, for helping set up Zoe the eel; Anne and Val from the Inner Wheel of Wandin for running the Mad Hatters Cafe.
Local artisans also made some sales at the event, offering high-quality pieces made with love and care.
“Local artisans’ stalls sold their magnificent homemade works, beautiful garments and home
It was the Rotary Club of Wandin’s second time hosting the event. (Garry Byrne)
decor that you just don’t see in shops or made in mass production.
“When you buy a piece, you know it’s the only one in the world, it is yours. Our Artisans work with a vision to create something unique, a piece of art. From there, a person sees it and buys it because they can see it is for them, as they found enjoyment in its creation and materials,” Ms Jensen said.
The Rotary Club of Wandin’s Creative Artisans Village takes place on the last Sunday of each month at the Wandin North Hall.
Ms Jensen said she wanted to cultivate a thriving local arts scene to bring people together and address increasing rates of loneliness in the region.
According to the Yarra Ranges Council’s 2024/25 Profile of Mental Health and Wellbeing report, more than one in five adults are lonely in
the region.
“Everyone sits at home, and all their friends are online, and I don’t call that friendship. I call that just occupying your time a little bit,” she said.
By championing the local arts scene and attending the event, visitors also contributed to a great cause through a gold coin donation.
The event’s entry fees went towards Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children (ROMAC), which delivers life-saving medical procedures to children in remote locations in the Oceania region.
Ms Jensen said this two-fold purpose of the Creative Artisans Village event embodied what Rotary is all about.
“Everything about Rotary is doing good in our communities and service above self, as we have fun working together as a team on many projects,” she said.
Locals and visitors alike flocked to the streets of Healesville for the town’s Nocturne event. (Healesville Traders’ Incorporation).
There were plenty of activities for people of all ages. (Healesville Traders’ Inc).
Matt and his son Andrew enjoying the festivities. (Kerrie Holis).
Lori sold her organic beeswax lip balm. (Garry Byrne)
L-R: Wandin Rotary’s newest member Martha Cleary (2 months) with longest serving Rotarian member Max McWillaim (over 50 years). (Garry Byrne)
Arielle stunned audiences once again with another amazing violin performance. (Garry Byrne)
RSV spiking across winter
By Tanya Steele
Winter is in full swing across Australia, and according to the Immunisation Foundation of Australia (IFA), RSV cases have surpassed both influenza and Covid-19 this winter.
Over 83,000 cases have been recorded, and the organisation is urging older adults to get vaccinated.
Locally in the outer east, healthcare staff have seen young babies and children presenting to their emergency departments, some quite unwell with RSV.
Brittany Gatt, a paediatric ED nurse and first aid educator, said that as winter has progressed, RSV has been making younger kids, especially those under the age of two, really unwell across the outer east.
“It can have such dramatic effects on the younger population, there have been some really unwell babies,” she said.
“It can also lead to a lot of secondary illnesses like pneumonia or bronchiolitis.”
RSV or respiratory syncytial virus is a common virus that causes respiratory infection in a person’s airways or lungs, and impacts people of all ages, but infants, young children and older adults in particular are at risk.
IFA founder and executive director Catherine Hughes AM said there is also still a massive gap in RSV vaccination coverage and an urgent need for older adults to get vaccinated.
“The RSV vaccine was unfortunately not available in April and early May when many older Australians receive their flu shot, so it’s clear there is some catching up to do,” she said.
IFA has collected data showing that despite a high number of RSV cases this year, infant admissions to paediatric hospitals during the early months (April-May) of the Australian RSV season are actually 70 per cent lower than in 2024, before the roll-out of the national RSV Mother and Infant Protection Program.
“Since the nationwide program began last year, more than 360,000 Australian babies have been protected against severe RSV,” Ms Hughes said.
“Early evidence shows the program is a resounding success, thousands of families are being spared the trauma of their baby being admitted to hospital and requiring oxygen support or intensive care due to RSV.”
The RSV vaccine is free to those at risk of catching the virus and includes infants, expectant mothers, adults aged 75 years and over, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 years and over.
Babies who catch RSV display symptoms like increased work of breathing and wheeziness, and Ms Gatt said parents can feel quite anxious when it comes to outbreaks of the virus in places like childcare settings.
“Some parents are getting quite anxious and bringing their children into ED to get them checked out when they may not necessarily be that unwell,” she said.
If parents are worried their child has RSV, Ms Gatt said a good option when worried about getting your child seen by a health professional, especially out of hours, is services like the virtual ED.
“If your baby has RSV and they’re starting to show wheezing, work of breathing and poor feeding, they’re all red flags and they need to
be assessed by a health professional, whether it’s your GP or using resources like virtual ED if you’re unsure,” Ms Gatt said.
The free 24-hour service is available to all Victorians for non-emergency urgent care video calls and can help alleviate worries or get further care as required with a quick call from home.
Ms Gatt said it’s a good idea to sign up ahead of needing the service as well.
Studies show that vaccination is more than 85 per cent effective in keeping older adults out of hospital with severe RSV, and almost 80 per cent effective in reducing hospital admissions for other conditions that can be made worse when people catch RSV, including chronic lung disease and heart disease.
Australian Medical Association president Dr Danielle McMullen said the RSV vaccine has the potential to prevent thousands of hospitalisations this winter.
“With so many Australians yet to be protected against RSV, it’s essential that people speak
to a healthcare professional about RSV protection. Now is the time to act – winter is far from over,” Dr McMullen said.
“Getting protected against RSV is an incredibly simple yet effective way to help prevent serious illness and stay out of hospital.”
The community should always seek medical care if symptoms do not resolve or worsen.
For babies and young children, call an ambulance or go to your nearest hospital emergency department if your child is turning blue, having trouble breathing, or is breathing very quickly.
For some tips to avoid spread and general prevention, Ms Gatt said it really comes down to your basics.
“Good hand hygiene,” she said.
Taking care to remove shoes from your kids before they come in the door from places like childcare and encouraging people not to kiss your baby’s face and hands can be a big preventative in the home.
“Especially hands, they go straight in the
mouth,” said Ms Gatt.
Spread through droplets from coughing and sneezing, teaching kids and even reminding adults that if they sneeze they should cover their mouth and wash their hands afterwards can really help prevent the spread of RSV. Ms Gatt also said that keeping unwell children home from daycare and school is essential.
“All those little things can really help prevent the spread,” she said.
Being outdoors in winter will not increase your chances of catching RSV, and Ms Gatt said being in close quarters inside is more likely to spread the infection.
“The reason why kids get more sick in winter is because they’re actually indoors closer to each other,” she said.
Other tips include cleaning toys, especially after a playdate and encouraging kids not to share their drink bottles and food.
“It really is just those little things that people don’t really think make an impact, but it really does,” Ms Gatt said.
Brittany Gatt, an experienced emergency paediatric RN and Safe Kids First Aid educator said they’ve had a number of quite unwell babies and children presenting with RSV this winter. (Supplied).
Family violence law changes
Victoria’s family violence laws are changing in 2026. The changes are part of the Women’s Safety Package, which was passed by the Victorian Parliament earlier this year.
Some changes started in April, and more are due to begin by November.
The reforms are designed to make family violence laws clearer, improve safety for people experiencing abuse, and help police and courts respond to the full picture of what is happening in a relationship.
The changes make it clearer that family violence includes stalking, systems abuse, and mistreating pets or other animals to frighten or control a person. Systems abuse can include misusing court processes, making false or misleading reports, or trying to influence services such as health providers to keep control over someone.
Legal matters
Anita Koochew Eastern Community Legal Centre
returned to the person who is the main carer.
These changes recognise that pets are often part of a person’s safety planning and emotional support, and that threats involving animals can be an extremely harmful form of control.
A parent who applies for an intervention order can ask for their children under 18 to be protected by the same order.
The reforms clarify that if the order continues after a child turns 18, that young person will stay protected until the order ends.
violence and community legal services.
From November, police and Magistrates will need to consider whether misidentification may have happened when an intervention order is being considered.
A stronger focus on the whole context of the relationship may lead to fairer decisions and better safety for victim-survivors.
This reform represents an important step towards a family violence intervention order system that better reflects the realities of abuse and provides stronger protections for victims.
The reforms specify new conditions that can be included in family violence intervention orders.
These may stop the person using violence from trying to find the protected person, using a pet to control them, or going near a listed pet. In some cases, an order may also require a pet to be
It is hoped the clarification of the definition will make it easier for police, courts and support services to identify controlling behaviour earlier and respond with stronger protections.
This gives families more continuity of safety and may reduce the need for young adults to start a new legal process at an already stressful time.
Misidentification happens when a victim-survivor is wrongly treated as the person using family violence.
This phenomenon has long been recognised by government agencies, Victoria Police, family
Music, pirates and comedy in our theatres
Burrinja Theatre
Always Was, Always Will Be …Funny – Dane Simpson
Get ready for guaranteed belly laughs with one of Australia’s most lovable comedians. For a limited time only, Dane Simpson’s new show Alway Was, Always Will Be … Funny.
Dane Simpson comes from a long line of funny comedians, from wisecracking parents and hilarious grandparents to generations of storytellers, pranksters and yarn spinners.
Now he’s putting the ‘rad into traditional’ with a comedy show packed full of outrageous stories, sharp observations and plenty of laughs.
Season: Saturday, 22 August at 7pm. Things of Stone and Wood It was 1989. The end of one decade and the start of something new.
Michael Allen, Mikey to his mates, appeared on the doorstep of Greg Arnold’s Carlton share house in Melbourne, Australia, with beers in hand and harmonies in his head.
There were no gig to hustle and no recordings to make, Greg says “We sang and drank for the fun of it”.
Nearly 40 years on, buoyed by their massive hit Happy Birthday Helen, Things of Stone and Wood have had two Top 10 albums, a Top 10 single and five Top 50 hits, plus a chart in Germany.
The band has also won an ARIA Award, and singer Greg Arnold was named Songwriter of the Year at the APRA Music Awards.
Season: Friday 7 August at 8pm.
The Round
Unplugged – Cosentino
In this bold new production, Australia’s greatest magician, Cosentino strips back the glitz and grandeur to reveal the raw essence of his craft. No smoke, no mirrors, no towering sets. Just Cosentino, uncovered and utterly spellbinding.
Now celebrated as a global superstar, Cosentino returns to his roots, reconnecting with audiences in the most intimate way possible.
Expect astonishing close-up magic, mindbending mentalism and sleight-of-hand you won’t believe until you see it.
Season: Thursday 22 October at 7pm.
The 1812 Theatre
Treasure Island
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.
Karralyka Theatre
Music of the Night
Australia’s premiere tribute to the music of Andrew Lloyd Webber and the West End Musicals returns to Karralyka Centre.
Prepare for an unforgettable afternoon of music, magic, and breathtaking theatrical flair with Jey Fernando’s smash-hit production.
Experience the timeless brilliance of Andrew Lloyd Webber brought to life with iconic songs from The Phantom of the Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita and Joseph and the amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat.
Season: Sunday 9 August at 2pm.
ECLC CEO Michael Smith welcomed the reforms, saying “We welcome these reforms because they make the law clearer and strengthen protections for victims.
“Too often these forms of abuse have been overlooked, and this is an important step towards a safer and more effective family violence intervention order system.”
Film is best superhero tale of year
Spider-Man: Brand New Day
Starring Tom Holland, Sadie Sink and Mark Ruffalo M
4.5/5
In Spider-Man: Brand New Day, a moving, fun and extremely well-written superhero flick, Peter Parker (Tom Holland), aka Spider-Man, must deal with a new bodysnatching threat while undergoing a disturbing genetic metamorphosis.
Holland is phenomenal as a kind, humble but more mature Peter Parker, and really sells Peter’s inner turmoil and painful physical transformation. Brand New Day features kinetic, thrilling action sequences, some exceptional shots and more natural humour than in most MCU movies (I’m glad Marvel has largely gotten over its quippy tendencies).
Watching the trailers, I was skeptical thatBrandNewDaycouldkeepallitsplates spinning, but the film effectively employs its legion of villains and side-characters as cool threats, red-herrings or engaging flavour. Exploring the need to accept your true self and make peace with the past, the plot has surprisingly great pacing, with a steady build of set-up, escalation, shock and culmination. Sadie Sink is compelling as Jean Grey, a scary yet sympathetic main antagonist driven by isolation and grief, and a scene of her telepathically hopping through a chain of bodies uses a really impressively-choreographed panning shot.
Mark Ruffalo has quite a small role as Bruce Banner, but casts a meaningful shadow over the rest of the film through his power-inhibiting device (and yields an awesome action scene as the Hulk). Peter and the vigilante Frank Castle, aka the Punisher (Jon Bernthal), develop a touching adversarial friendship (although some will object to the famously deadly Punisher being softened like this). The only weak link is Florence Pugh’s fun but extraneous cameo as Yelena, leader of the New Avengers. Playing in most Victorian cinemas, Spider-Man: Brand New Day is a rare modern blockbuster that commits to so many ideas and characters but pulls it all off magnificently.
- Seth Lukas Hynes
Quadruple roo cuteness
A sign that spring is just around the corner despite the cloudy weather, with a roo-markable baby boom of Kangaroo Island Kangaroos at Healesville Sanctuary.
The four youngsters aged between six and 11 months old have started venturing out of mum’s pouch, so there’s also a spring to their hop.
Newborn joeys begin life at about the size of a jellybean before they continue their development safely tucked away like a little pouch potato for approximately 10-11 months.
All four joeys are offspring of young male Oscar, while mothers Merlot, Pinot, Sherry and Penny are all experienced at raising little ones.
The oldest three joeys can now be seen out and about. Keepers have not yet seen the face of the youngest joey in the pouch.
Healesville Sanctuary Mammal Keeper Poppy O’Neil said the joeys are spending much of their time exploring the paddock, becoming familiar with their surroundings and interacting with other mob members. “As they are getting older, they are also beginning to do zoomies and vocalise to each other, which sounds like a very tiny yet raspy growl,” he said. “I enjoy seeing how these kangaroos interact with each other as a highly social species.”
“We are fortunate to have a multi-generational mob, so it is quite special seeing the older, more established members taking care of the younger generation joeys. Our oldest female is Merle, who is 14. She is a mother and now a grandmother.”
As their name suggests, Kangaroo Island Kangaroos hail from Kangaroo Island southwest of Adelaide, South Australia. They have the thickest fur of any kangaroo species, which equips them to cope with Kangaroo Island’s harsh winters.
Behaviourally, they are a laid-back species. 12 Kangaroo Island Kangaroos call the Sanctuary home.
Healesville Sanctuary is open from 9am until 5pm, 365 days a year including all public holidays. Thanks to the Victorian Government’s Kids Go Free program, children under the age of 16 visit free on weekends, school holidays and public holidays.
Housing emerges as Australia’s biggest economic challenge
Australia’s economic growth is expected to slow as lower house price growth weighs on consumer spending and broader economic activity, with CommBank economists saying housing is now expected to be a bigger drag on the economy than higher oil prices.
Speaking on the latest episode of the CommBank View: Economics & Markets podcast, CommBank Head of Australian Economics Belinda Allen said the shape of Australia’s slowdown had changed over recent months.
“We’ve certainly seen a shift in what’s going to cause the Australian economy to slow,” Allen said.
“We still think that’s going to happen, but it’s really the housing market that’s going to create that slowdown in the Australian economy, rather than higher oil prices.”
The slowdown in home price growth that emerged in late 2025 has now spread across Australia’s housing market, with weaker conditions for sellers evident in most major capitals. Allen said higher interest rates and policy changes had weighed on sentiment and prices.
“That combination of factors has seen the housing market pull back, and we’ve seen in past cycles that does impact the consumer through what economists call the wealth effect,” she said.
Falling home values typically make households feel less financially secure, encouraging them to save more and spend less. Allen said
that dynamic was now expected to be a key drag on economic growth throughout 2026.
Consumer spending is also showing signs of moderation.
Allen said CBA’s internal data suggested endof-financial-year sales activity had softened compared with the same period last year.
“There are signs that consumers are pulling back,” she said.
While household savings remain relatively healthy overall, Allen said weak sentiment and softer home prices were likely to keep consumers cautious through the remainder of the year.
Commonwealth Bank forecasts Australia’s economic growth will slow from 2.5 per cent in late 2025 to 1.5 per cent by late 2026, before improving to about 2 per cent by late 2027.
Despite the housing-led slowdown, Allen
said data centre development to fuel AI compute investment was creating important longer-term opportunities for the Australian economy. She cautioned that growth would be constrained by energy availability, water use and the time required to build new facilities, and that while it would help Australia’s economy, it was not going to fully make up for the slowdown in the consumer sector.
A Kangaroo Island joey posing for the camera. (Rick Hammond, Zoos Victoria)
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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.
1 Reason for doing or not doing something (6)
4 In very high spirits (8)
9 Recipe (7)
11 Former US First Lady, – 'Lady Bird' Johnson (7) 12 Flash of lightning (11)
26 Persecute (7) 27 Understanding of surroundings, – awareness (7)
29 Expenditure (8) 30 Abandon (6)
1 Santa's helper, say (3) 2 Distribute (9)
3 Small military unit (5) 5 Swathe (6) 6 Restaurant in Italy (9) 7 Relating to ocean movements (5)
8 Secret (11) 10 Were of the same opinion (6) 12 Stormy (11) 15 Fully informed; performing at the right rate (2,2,5)
17 Doppelganger (4-5)
18 Strata (6)
21 Holmes’ companion, Dr – (6)
23 Fruit (5)
25 Carpentry tool (5)
28 Tenanted (3)
CHARM AND CHARACTER IN THE HEART OF FOREST
CHARM AND CHARACTER BORDERING FOREST
STEEPED in history and lovingly transformed, ‘The Forrester’s Hut’ is far more than a home - it’s a remarkable piece of Hills heritage reimagined for today’s living. Set on a stunning, accessible 1,954m² fully fenced block bordering Sherbrooke Forest and walking distance from Kallista Village, Cooks Corner and local primary schools. This one of a kind property blends rustic character, thoughtful craftsmanship and modern convenience in a way that’s truly unique.
Originally built in the 1940s as a humble holiday shack, renovating the cottage has been a labour of love. Today, the result is an enchanting space filled with warmth, light and personality. Clerestory windows flood the open plan living spaces with natural sunlight while accentuating the soaring ceilings, creating an incredible sense of openness.
Every detail tells a story, from the live edge timber slab island bench to the repurposed beams salvaged from the original Barwon Heads timber bridge, recycled railway sleeper lintels, handcrafted roof trusses and the striking rustic steel feature walls, reclaimed from the property itself. Even the circular ensuite window has been creatively fashioned from a salvaged steel drum clamp. The result is a home that feels like it has grown from the forest.
The spacious kitchen has been designed with generous storage, expansive bench space and picturesque views across the rear gardens, while a cleverly integrated home office keeps work and family life effortlessly connected.
There are two generous bedrooms with the main bedroom featuring built in robes and a full ensuite, while the second bedroom enjoys dual windows framing the surrounding greenery.
Large glass sliding doors open to treehouse views into the forest and lead to the extended living space on the expansive undercover wraparound deck. A perfect setting for entertaining, or simply soaking in the tranquillity of the surrounding gardens and forest. Ducted heating and cooling combined with the ambience of the wood heater, ensure cosy comfort in every season.
Outside, the magic continues. A meandering pathway winds through a lush fernery and beautifully established gardens, creating a private sanctuary where children and pets can roam freely beneath the towering beauty of the mountain ash rainforest. The local wildlife and birds are daily visitors, being on the edge of the Dandenong Ranges National Park and Australia’s most well known lyrebird habitat.
A double garage with workshop and extensive under house storage offer exceptional practicality, with exciting potential to further expand the home or create a studio/ workshop (STCA).
Rich in history, crafted with creativity and designed for modern family living, ‘The Forrester’s Hut’ offers an opportunity to own not simply a home, but a truly unique piece of Hills history - a place where every timber has a story and every day feels just a little more special. ●
A RARE DUAL OCCUPANCY LIFESTYLE
RARELY does an opportunity arise to secure two separate homes on approximately 37 acres of predominantly cleared land in the heart of Hoddles Creek. Designed to accommodate multiple generations, generate additional income or provide private guest accommodation, this exceptional dual occupancy property combines outstanding versatility with picturesque rural living. With quality infrastructure and expansive usable acreage, it offers the complete country lifestyle package.
The main residence welcomes you with impressive 12ft ceilings and timber flooring throughout, creating a wonderful sense of warmth and character. Privately positioned at the front of the home, the main bedroom features built-in robes and a well-appointed ensuite, while the adjoining lounge is centred around a crackling woodfire, providing the perfect place to relax. The country-style kitchen is designed for everyday living, complete with a gas cooktop, electric oven, dishwasher, generous bench space and direct access outdoors. Two further bedrooms, one with builtin robes, are serviced by a beautifully appointed central bathroom featuring a clawfoot bath and luxurious underfloor heating.
Perfectly positioned away from the main residence, the freshly painted second home offers an ideal retreat for extended family, guests or short-stay accommodation. A charming front verandah provides the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee while taking in the peaceful rural outlook. Inside, the open plan kitchen, living and dining area is filled with natural light and finished with floating floors. The kitchen includes a gas cooktop, electric oven, dishwasher, excellent storage and ample bench space, while the living area is kept comfortable year-round with a split system. The ground floor also features a spacious bedroom with its own split system, family bathroom and separate toilet. Upstairs, the generous main suite enjoys a
HOME ESSENTIALS
the surrounding landscape.
Outside, the property is equally impressive, with six fenced paddocks, two dams, an established ornamental vineyard and chook house creating the ideal lifestyle setting.
A substantial double garage incorporating a workshop and games room provides
Day 0407 365 994 or Brennan Mileto 0422 996 451, BELL
versatility, while a 4.5kW solar system and approximately 95,000 litres of water storage add practicality and efficiency.
Offering an exceptional blend of lifestyle, income potential and rural charm, this outstanding Hoddles Creek estate is a rare opportunity to secure a truly versatile acreage property in a magnificent setting.
This property has it all so don’t miss out
recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office. ●
FAMILY SPACE, COUNTRY CHARM & LIFESTYLE
SET proudly on an elevated 2,996m² allotment, this welcoming family home delivers the perfect combination of space, comfort and relaxed Hills living in a peaceful, private setting.
Designed for effortless family living, the home centres around a spacious open-plan family and meals area, complemented by a well-appointed kitchen featuring a stainless steel oven, gas cooktop and excellent storage. A separate lounge and dining room offers additional living space, while the dedicated study provides the ideal work-from-home office or quiet retreat.
Accommodation comprises three generous bedrooms, including a spacious main suite with walk-in robe and ensuite. The remaining bedrooms are serviced by a central family bathroom and separate toilet, making the layout ideal for growing families.
Thoughtfully designed with passive solar principles, the home’s north-facing orientation fills the living areas with an abundance of natural light throughout the day. A gas heater and split system heating and cooling ensure year-round comfort.
Running the length of the rear of the home, the expansive verandah provides the perfect setting for entertaining family and friends or simply unwinding while enjoying the tranquil outlook. Established gardens create a private haven with plenty of space for children and pets to roam, while the patio and fire pit area offer even more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Completing the package is a substantial double garage, full-sized laundry, excellent storage and a highly functional floorplan designed to adapt to family life. Offering generous proportions, multiple living zones and the peaceful charm of a beautiful Hills setting, this is a wonderful opportunity to secure a lifestyle property just moments from local schools, shops and everyday conveniences. ●
YOUR CREATIVE, PRIVATE FAMILY RETREAT AWAITS
NESTLED amongst enchanting, meticulously maintained gardens, this charming three bedroom home offers a peaceful lifestyle where nature, comfort and character surround you on the forests edge.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll appreciate the exceptional vehicle accommodation, with a large double carport, single garage and additional parking bays providing ample space for family, guests, caravans and trailers.
Inside, the light filled open plan living area welcomes you with an abundance of windows that frame the stunning garden outlook, creating a seamless connection between indoors and out. The lounge flows effortlessly through to the kitchen and meals area, making everyday living and entertaining both comfortable and practical.
A dedicated home office nook provides the ideal space for those working from home or studying. All bedrooms come complete with excellent storage and space for quiet retreat. The bathroom is a little piece of luxury with floor to ceiling tiles, frameless walk in shower and quality fittings.
Year round comfort is assured with both gas ducted heating and split system heating and cooling, while the charming wood fire creates a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout the cooler months.
Step outside to discover a generous undercover deck that extends the length of the home, offering the perfect setting to entertain friends, enjoy family meals or simply unwind while taking in the beauty of the surrounding gardens in every season.
Beneath the home, you’ll find an impressive amount of under house storage along with a substantial workshop, ideal for tradies, hobbyists or anyone needing extra room for projects and equipment.
Offering space, serenity and timeless character in one of the Dandenong Ranges’ most picturesque settings, this delightful property is a place you’ll instantly feel at home. If the essentials on your wish list include privacy, beautiful gardens, practical spaces and undeniable charm, then look no further.
Welcome to your new home at 8 Clarkson Road, Kallista. ●
YVSC bag the three points
By Matt Munro and Kayley Brewington
Two more wins for the Yarra Valley Soccer Club, this time with the men’s edging past Blackburn in a close contest, and the women’s dominating Monbulk.
Yarra Valley u18 Men’s def Blackburn Green 1-0.
In a tight and highly contested game, Yarra Valley found a way to get the victory and three points to add to its league table tally.
It was hard to find open space through most of the game and credit goes to both sides for putting on lots of tackling pressure to make the game and arm wrestle.
Yarra Valley had more possession but struggled to find cohesion and fluency with completing a string of passes. Yarra Valley had more shots on goal and looked dangerous, however conversion in front of goal was a theme throughout the contest. Lots of Yarra Valley’s corners and crosses were either too deep or too shallow for Yarra Valley’s attackers.
Rei converted Yarra Valley’s sole goal in the second half with a swerving run through the box to elude the goalkeeper.
In the second half, Yarra Valley controlled the game and attacked a lot more compared to the first half.
The team started to communicate more and the energy lifted. Yarra Valley’s second goal was called offside and the linesman and field umpire spent a few moments to deliberate. It was a very tight offside call and Yarra Valley moved on. Blackburn had a few chances to equalise in the last 10 minutes of the game, and Yarra Valley’s defence held up.
Lawson had a great game setting up some forward plays and was very lively. Sora was composed and creative in defence with deft passing and a few daring runs down the wing. George came on in the second half and made a big difference to help control the midfield and settle the
team. His long passes and vision was what Yarra Valley needed to get over the line.
Hopefully Yarra Valley will have a full squad back for next week’s away game against Blackburn Scorpions who sit on top of the table and are the team to beat. If Yarra Valley lift next Saturday and play to Yarra Valley’s full potential, Yarra Valley can push the Scorpions all the way to the final whistle.
Also a big shout out goes to Yarra Valley’s coach Travis, who is doing a great job to galvanise the team and give the lads confidence on game day.
Yarra Valley Soccer Club Women’s def Monbulk Ranges 6-0:
Yarra Valley SC Women travelled to Monbulk to take on Monbulk Rangers Div X in a 1.00pm kickoff, playing a nine-a-side match.
The team arrived ready to go, completing their warm-up before running through the game plan and player positions. With both coaches, Zoe and Mez, guiding the team from the sidelines, the women were focused and ready for the challenge.
Yarra Valley took the field with nine players and two substitutes. D’Arcy started in goals, while Peta, Samahdi, and Seren formed a solid defensive line. Karou, Kiara, and Mak controlled the midfield, with Amelia and Kayley leading the attack. Bea and Jazz began the match on the bench, ready to make an impact.
The Valley women put together an outstanding first half, combining excellent passing, strong defensive efforts, and smart rotations with their substitutes.
Their hard work paid off as Mak opened the scoring with two well-earned goals before Bea
came on to add another two, giving Yarra Valley a commanding 4–0 lead at halftime.
The women carried their momentum into the second half, starting strongly despite fatigue beginning to set in.
After a quick substitution, the team found their rhythm again, displaying fantastic communication, well-timed overlapping runs, and accurate crosses.
Bea continued her impressive performance, scoring another two goals to complete her fourgoal haul for the match.
The final whistle saw Yarra Valley celebrate a dominant 6–0 victory, with a complete team performance built on strong communication, teamwork, and clinical finishing. It was a fantastic result and another great display of the determination and spirit of the Yarra Valley Women’s team.
It was a hard fought victory over Blackburn. (Supplied)
The win sees them earn another crucial three points.
SPORT
Local clubs for road safety
By Gabriella Vukman
Football and netball clubs across the Yarra Ranges joined a statewide push to improve road safety.
Players, coaches and volunteers were encouraged to start conversations about safer travel during the TAC’s annual Road Safety Round.
Held from July 23-26, the campaign saw footballers and netballers across Victoria wear blue armbands to honour lives lost on the roads and remind their communities that everyone has a role to play in preventing road trauma.
Yarra Glen and Healesville Football and Netball Clubs were among over 1000 AFL Victoria-affiliated clubs that participated in the round.
For Yarra Glen Football Netball Club player Joaquim Gerovasilis, the message behind the Road Safety Round was deeply personal.
Mr Gerovasilis lost his brother Elias in a motorcycle crash two years ago and said the campaign was an important opportunity to encourage people to make safer decisions.
“No family deserves to have the emergency services knocking on their door saying that they’ve sadly lost a loved one,” Mr Gerovasilis said.
For Mr Gerovasilis, local sporting clubs provide an important platform to connect with people and encourage conversations around road safety.
“We all just get around each other and it doesn’t matter whether it’s for the breast cancer round that we do, MND round, road safety round, it’s all the same,” he said.
“We all get around and support each other.”
Mr Gerovasilis said the club wanted to make sure the road safety message reached as many people as possible.
“I’ve seen on the internet and from speaking with players and volunteers from other clubs, that they’ve shared the message as well.”
“It looks like the awareness is being widely spread, which is a good thing,” he said.
When it comes to the Yarra Ranges community, Mr Gerovasilis’ message was simple: make responsible decisions before every trip.
“Drive to the conditions, always wear your seatbelts, keep distractions away from arm’s reach and tell your friends and family you love them.”
“You never know when something bad is going to happen.”
Mr Gerovasilis’ mother, and Emerald resident Janine Gerovasilis, also shared her family’s experience with road trauma as part of the round.
Now a volunteer lived experience speaker with Amber Community, Ms Gerovalisis spoke to players at both Emerald and Yarra GLen football clubs during the round, encouraging members to focus on the choices they make every time they travel.
Ms Gerovalisis said the TAC round provided an opportunity to create awareness for road safety and support those affected by crashes.
“The TAC round was a great round to create awareness for road safety and for people affected by road trauma.”
Ms Gerovalisis told players that Elias was not speeding or affected by drugs or alcohol, and that every journey still required care and attention. Her message focused on making safe deci-
sions, removing distractions, adjusting driving to conditions and always wearing a seatbelt.
She said the response from players was emotional.
“It was quite overwhelming actually. I think my talk made an impact,” she said.
“All the team members came up and gave me a hug afterwards, which was lovely.”
This season’s Road Safety campaign comes after a challenging year on Victorian roads, with 291 people losing their lives in the 12 months to December 2025.
The Yarra Ranges recorded nine road fatalities during that period, placing the shire among Victorian local government areas with the highest number of lives lost according to TAC data.
A further 12 TAC claimants from the Yarra Ranges were admitted to hospital for more than 14 days following crashes during the latest reporting period, highlighting the ongoing impact of serious road trauma on local families and communities.
This year’s Road Safety Round focused on speeding, which contributes to around 30 per cent of fatal crashes and 25 per cent of serious injury crashes across Victoria.
The TAC and AFL Victoria launched the campaign at the MCG, with Hawthorn star and campaign ambassador Nick Watson joining the event.
The launch featured 291 blacked-out stadium seats, representing every Victorian who died on the roads last year.
While many clubs marked the Road Safety Round with blue armbands and match-day acknowledgement, Healesville Football Netball Club also focused on education away from the field.
Club president Toby Millman said the club held a Drugs and Alcohol Awareness session for senior players as well as Healesville Junior Football Club under-16 players in the lead-up to the round.
Burras reserves reign against Olinda Ferny Creek
By Alex Woods
It was a beautiful day up in Warburton for lots of netball and football action. The Burras hosted Olinda-Ferny Creek for all games today and was a great day all round.
The netball had a clean clean sweep and the reserves footy had a great win. The women’s finished their home and away season nicely with a strong win.
They take on Mt Evelyn in the first final on Saturday in Olinda. Officer is up for the next round for rest of club. Go Burras.
See results below:
NETBALL:
A Grade:
FT: Warburton-Millgrove def Olinda Ferny Creek (51-36).
Best: Bianca Daniels, Selina Fotia and Indi Pinnock.
Best: Josh Berenger, Tom Barr, Ben Pretty, Jack Lee, Tyson Henry, Pat Huynh.
Goals: Josh Berenger (1), Tom Barr (1), Jack Farrugia (1), Brayden Woolridge (1), Bailey Humphrey (1), Pat Huynh (2).
The session was delivered by Sports and Life Training (SALT) and focused on leadership, responsibility, positive influences and the consequences of alcohol and drug use.
Mr Millman said the club wanted players to understand that decisions made away from the field could affect many people.
“We don’t just want to influence our guys, we want to influence everyone in the community,” he said.
“It is about creating a better social environment and supporting teammates to make better decisions when they’re in situations.”
The session also gave younger players an opportunity to consider the wider impact of their choices.
Mr Millman said feedback from an under-16 player showed the message had resonated.
The player told him the session “gave me a different perspective” and helped them understand “how it affects the community and the wide-ranging impacts.”
Mr Millman said the program was another way the club could support its players and the wider Yarra Valley community.
For clubs across the Yarra Ranges, Road Safety Round was not only about acknowledging those lost on the roads, but also about creating conversations within their own communities.
With local players, families and volunteers sharing their experiences, the focus remained on the impact road trauma can have and the importance of supporting safer decisions on and off the field.
Janine, her husband Bill, daughter Poppy, and son Joaquim during Road Safety Round. (Supplied).
Joaquim Gerovasilis holding a photo of his brother Elias during Yarra Glen Football Club’s Road Safety Round.(Supplied).
(4).
Seniors’ vice captain Jack Lee lines up a kick. (Alex Woods)
Mixed bag for the River Pigs
By David Ball
Yarra Glen seniors hosted third-placed Alexandra in sunny conditions, with the River Pigs looking to beat a top 3 team for the first time this season. They started well, kicking the first 2 goals.
The game developed into a battle through the midfield with both sides struggling to handle the tackling pressure of their opponents.
Alex kicked 2 late goals to snatch a 3-point quarter-time lead.
The second quarter saw the River Pigs’ midfield, led by Tom Sullivan take control as Travis Cloke capitalised kicking 4 goals as Yarra Glen surged to a 19-point lead.
Early in the third the River Pigs had several chances to extend their lead but missed 3 gettable goals.
Alexandra then took control and banged on 7 goals to go into the last break with a 16-point advantage.
The River Pigs kicked an early goal in the last and with their backline holding tight, they added another 4 quick goals to turn the deficit into a 12-point lead by the 15-minute mark.
Alex responded with a goal.
In a goal-for-goal finish, the River Pigs maintained their composure to run out with a commendable 12-point victory.
■Final Scores: Yarra Glen 16.11 to Alexandra 15.5
■Best Players: Cooper Barbera, Travis Cloke, Luke DeGoldi, Aden Stares, Jared McCann, Jake Ferris. Goalkickers: Travis Cloke 7, Cooper Barbera 3, Josh Hawkins 2, Sam Wood, Oscar Grenfell, Luke DeGoldi, Noah Battle1 each.
The Yarra Glen reserves battled hard in the first quarter to restrict Alex to just the two goals for the quarter.
When the Rebels lifted their intensity in the second, the River Pigs struggled to move the ball and found it difficult to maintain possession.
Alex added 5 goals whilst the Yarra Glen boys went into half time scoreless.
The third quarter saw Yarra Glen combine better as they finally started hitting the scoreboard, kicking 2 goals to Alexandra’s 3 in a much-improved contest.
The last was a bad quarter for the River Pigs as Alex ran away to add 7 goals to nil.
■Dayne Fuss. Goalkickers: Zac Young, Matt McKenzie.
Yarra Glen’s Under 18s started their game having the ball in their forward line for much of the quarter but failed to capitalise, scoring 4 points.
With some desperate defence, they kept Alex to just 2 points. Alex dominated the second as they added 3 goals whilst the River Pigs failed to score.
Yarra Glen lifted in the third as they started
winning more contests and connecting better going forward.
Just 6 points down at three-quarter time, the River Pigs started the last having more of the play and created several scoring opportunities but just could not convert.
They lost a great chance to take the lead when a snap in the goal square missed.
Alex lifted, and the Yarra boys seemed to run out of steam. Alex went forward twice and goaled to earn a 15 point victory.
‘Balanced partnership’: Georgie and Mitsy champions
By Ron Hottes
As with most golf clubs, the annual match play event is always one of the most sought-after competitions on the calendar.
At Warburton, that honour belongs to the Singer Walker Match Play, and the two pairs who survived all the qualifying rounds met in Saturday’s final.
Georgie Houniet and Michael “Mitsy” Batten emerged as worthy champions with a strong five-and-four victory over Lachie Dickson and Josh Waddell.
Georgie and Mitsy deserve great praise for battling through every round to reach the final.
The interesting aspect of their win was the balance of the partnership. Michael plays from a low handicap while Georgia plays from the mid20s, yet the pair combined superbly throughout the event and proved too strong for every team they faced. Congratulations again to Georgie and Michael on a terrific achievement.
The Monday ladies were not back in action last week, although the club is hopeful they may return this Monday if conditions improve. The weather certainly did not help last week.
Unfortunately, there was no midweek golf either. The course was so wet, particularly on Wednesday, that players did not get beyond the first hole before the competition was aban-
A-Grade victory against Alexandra for Yarra Glen
By David Ball
Yarra Glen A grade got off to a steady start against Alexandra to lead by 5 goals at quarter time.
In a 20-goal blitz in the second, the Yarra girls set up a commanding victory to keep their hopes for a top 3 place alive.
Final scores: Yarra Glen 70 to Alexandra 34.
Best Players: Alana McGurgan, Georgia Grugnale, Maddy Hargrave.
With B Grade sitting in third spot, it was important that they keep winning to secure the second chance moving into finals. Theycameoutfiringtobe15goalsupatquarter time. They continued to dominate and by three-quarter time were 42 goals up.
They finished up with a well-deserved 46-goal victory.
Final Scores: Yarra Glen 68 to Alexandra 22.
Best Players: Skye Corrigan, Katelyn Vanderkolk, Abby Stranger. As with A and B grades, the C Grade team is also chasing a top 3 spot.
Alexandraprovidedsomeearlypressuretobein touch at quarter time, but from then on, the Yarra girls took control with both the attack and the defence working well.
They went on to record a very credible 31-goal win.
Final scores: Yarra Glen 44 to Alexandra 13.
Best Players: Ash Shanks, Tiah Large, Leah Haag.
Yarra Glen’s D Grade had a bye.
doned.
That leaves the club with Saturday’s Monthly Medal, always a highly prized event as it is held on the first day of the month.
The winner was Chris Leighton with an excellent Nett 66. Well done, Chris.
The runner-up was David Pup Lever with a solid Nett 67, earning the voucher only after a countback from Hamish Gemmill, who also returned a Nett 67.
Nearest the Pin winners were:
■Third hole: Ken Barrett – 210 cm. must have been your best shot for the day, KB.
■Fifth hole: Panda.
■Ninth hole: Craig Staggard – two metres exact-
ly.
■12th hole: Captain Whitehead – 210 cm.
■15th hole: Simon Spensley. Simon’s effort on the 15th was particularly pleasing as he apparently took the opportunity to show his son exactly how the hole should be played.
Finally, a reminder that the Jarrod Lyle Charity Day will be held on Friday, August 15.
Full details will appear in next week’s report, so keep an eye out for that.
The club hope both members and guests support this wonderful event as generously as possible.
Until next week, good golfing.
Perfect Wandin weather sees strong win against Healesville
After five weeks of challenging winter weather, football finally returned to ideal conditions on Saturday, and Wandin made the most of it with a dominant 136 to 28 victory over Healesville.
The dry conditions allowed Wandin’s ball movement to shine, with the Bulldogs moving the football quickly and cleanly throughout the day.
Their ability to link up by hand and foot created plenty of scoring opportunities and put Healesville under constant pressure.
A strong first quarter set the tone as Wandin established an early lead before steadily increasing the margin across the remaining three terms.
The Bulldogs finished with an impressive 19.22 (136), while restricting Healesville to 4.4 (28).
Joel Garner was outstanding in front of goal, finishing with seven majors, while Aaron Mullett added four and Macauley Beckwith chipped in
■Final Scores: Yarra Glen 3.11to Alexandra 6.8.
■Best Players: Alex Toscano, Jungala Hume, Sebastion Rouse, Sam Gloury, Alastair Lowrie, Robert Pavic. Goalkickers: Max Williams 2, Spencer Boers. This Friday starting at 7.00pm the Yarra Glen Vets play in a semi-final against Gembrook at Yarra Glen.
The winner will then proceed to the Grand Final. All other teams are also at Yarra Glen to take on Yea.
Yarra Glen saw some mixed results in round 16. (Supplied).
with three. Brodie Atkins and Cody Hirst also hit the scoreboard.
Among Wandin’s best were Cody Hirst, Patty Bruzzese, Joel Garner, Harry Mitchell, Charlie Wood and Chayce Black, all of whom played significant roles in the convincing win.
Joel Garner excelled with seven majors. (Gary Sissons: 359431)
SPORT
Game on for Healesville soccer
By Sally Cunningham
Sport can give so much to a community.
At the tail end of the season, there is noticeable growth in confidence in the kids as they form strong bonds with teammates and practice their skills from training on game day.
This combined with eager parents cheering from the sidelines, hot chips and coffee make for a joyful Saturday ritual.
Blackburn New Hope 1–2 Healesville Men’s Firsts After the Reserves match was abandoned due to an in-game injury to the Blackburn goalkeeper, the Firsts kicked off in an unusual atmosphere. Blackburn, level on points with Healesville but struggling for form, came out firing and launched repeated long balls.
One of those attacks produced a looping header over Healesville goalkeeper Gabe with a goal for Blackburn, and another header struck the bar before a crucial goalline clearance kept Healesville within reach at halftime.
Coach Sammy’s halftime rev-up and the wind at their backs sparked a shift in intensity.
Healesville began creating chances with Daniel, JJ, David and Sam all putting goal pressure on the Blackburn keeper.
It felt like it might be one of those days until Sam G pounced on another chance and buried the equaliser with under five minutes left.
With momentum surging, Healesville pushed hard for a winner.
David delivered it, looping a header into the far corner to stun Blackburn, who just minutes earlier had looked set for victory.
The comeback win lifts Healesville above their hosts and into fifth place on the ladder. Women’s Premier League South East 2 vs Healesville 0
Healesville travelled to their close neighbours South East, who were sitting second on the table. The sun was out and the synthetic pitch made for perfect conditions.
A slow start from Healesville invited some early South East pressure, but the home side could not capitalise for long stretches until a deflected shot saw the ball squirming across the line.
One nil to the home team.
Charlotte controlled large parts of the game through the midfield in a fairly even half.
Healesville came out firing in the second half and owned plenty of the possession, thanks to strong performances from Tess and Melita, going close on multiple occasions to levelling it up.
South East kept hunting on the break though, and found one to make it two, with real questions over the offside call.
It finished 2-0, with plenty of chances for Healesville to square it up but no reward at the back of the net.
Senior Men’s Div 4 1 vs DRF Savages
On a sunny afternoon at Don Road, Healesville faced title contenders DRF Savages - the same side that handed them a heavy defeat earlier in the season.
With a blend of youth and experience, plus debuts for Geoff and U15s graduate Louis, Healesville started confidently and controlled the midfield from the outset.
Their strong start paid off when Max and Louis combined on the counter, setting up Mitch to finish clinically for a deserved early lead. Geoff nearly doubled the margin with a powerful strike that skimmed over the bar.
Holding a 1–0 advantage at halftime, Healesville harnessed a disciplined, united defensive effort.
Teddy was superb in goal, handling DRF’s fast ball movement, powerful shots and set pieces with calm authority.
The backline stayed organised and vocal, shutting down DRF’s attempts to break through.
Despite late pressure, Healesville held firm to secure a gritty 1–0 win, - an outstanding response against one of the division’s strongest sides and a performance full of belief, discipline and heart. U16 Girls Blackburn 2–12 Healesville
The Healesville Hurricanes travelled to face Blackburn in what shaped as a potential danger game.
The squad focused on setting clear goals: finish strongly, play attacking football and enjoy the run home.
Healesville struck immediately, with Sia weaving through the middle to score inside the first minute.
Blackburn replied after a defensive lapse, but the Hurricanes hit back quickly, and Sia added her second.
Blackburn continued to compete hard and
pulled another goal back, yet Healesville steadied again through Eloise and an Evie strike to take a 5–2 lead into halftime.
The message at the break was simple: lift intensity, win the contest and finish chances.
The response was emphatic.
Healesville dominated the second half with relentless attacking play and disciplined pressure.
The front trio of Evie, Kendi and Sia continually stretched Blackburn, supported by strong midfield control from Henrietta, Georgia and Rylee. U15 Boys Bayswater 1 vs Healesville 9
After a disappointing loss last week, Healesville had a great opportunity to re-find form against a team that had been struggling and was at the foot of the table.
Starting the game strong, Healesville scored 3 goals in 15 minutes. Bayswater’s defence then tightened up, and at half-time the away team was up by 4 goals.
Coach Tom reminded the boys not to be complacent, and challenged them to continue attacking and play their game. Healesville turned it on again in the second half, and were inspired by a 30-minute hat trick by Iggy, making it 4 goals in the game.
Vincent also added to the score line, with his first goal of the season.
Striker, Louis continued to hunt for goals the whole game, adding a brace to his strong season tally.
This win places the team at third on the ladder with everything to play for in the last few weeks. U13 Boys Division 2 – Healesville Panthers 14 vs Bayswater BSSC 0
Facing the team that beat them 3–1 in Round 1, the Panthers replied perfectly with confidence and winning mentality.
Ryder opened the scoring within minutes, and
Healesville dominated possession and chances from that point on.
Bayswater created a few moments, but Jake handled everything comfortably in goals. Flynn earned a deserved mention with his first goal of the season, and the second half continued in the same fashion.
Saxon’s first goal sparked big celebrations also, Sol added another, and Flynn finished the day with a brace.
Ben and Ryder were unlucky not to add more, both hitting the crossbar.
U10’s Girls Healesville 2 vs Bayswater 2
A sunny late morning in Bayswater saw the team battle to a hard-earned draw.
It was an excellent performance, with everyone keeping the pressure on and showing how much they’ve improved this season.
All the goals came in the first half, with Quinnie scoring twice to give Healesville a strong start.
A brief defensive wobble allowed Bayswater to equalise, but once the girls settled into their positions, they shut down the chaos and regained control.
The second half was defined by outstanding defence. Bayswater pushed hard, but Addison was superb in goal, handling everything with calm, safe hands.
Healesville were unlucky not to score again - Ayda twice broke into space and forced good saves, while passing combinations between Shiloh, Romilly, Eleanor and Emi showed real growth.
New recruit Harriet impressed with smart positioning and reliable defending, while Romilly and Eleanor worked tirelessly, covering huge ground and constantly disrupting Bayswater’s play.
A disciplined, determined team effort from start to finish.
Louisa Inge takes official EA dressage on Road To Jamieson
By Anita Prowse
What an amazing sunny Winter weekend the Upper Yarra Pony Club had, perfect days after cold starts.
On Saturday, the Shirley Heights EC held their Official EA Dressage Jackpot event and the winners were:
■Grand Prix - Louisa Inge on Road To Jamieson.
■Inter 2 - Fern Wright on Kersbrook Seamus.
■Inter 1 - Ashleigh Atwell on Champagne Perrier.
■Pre St George - Jessica Sharp on Revelwood Synergy.
■Adv JP - Bettina Kopetzky on San Sebastian.
■Med JP - Caitlyn Porter on Ballingara Darius.
■El JP - Megan Joyce on Mayfield Vibrance.
■Nov JP - Natasha Moody on Springside Serrans.
■Prelim JP - Jessie fFleming on Black Sterling Torino.
Followed on Sunday with Upper Yarra Adult Riders Club’s Showjumping event. Winners were:
■L2 AM5 - Jessica Welch on DJ Jacques Noir from Wandin Park RCA.
■Jessica also won the Level 2 AM7.
■L3 AM5 - Diane McCann on Hank from Moorooduc Saddle Club.
■Diane also won the AM7.
■L4 AM5 -Laura Crane on My Name Is Monty from Koo-wee-rup Horse Riders Club.
■AM7 - Sally-Anne Belcher on Frahaven Prada from koo-wee-rup Horse Riders Club.
■L5 AM5 - Mahsa Parsaeemehr on TMC Sassy Little Secret from Shirley Heights Inc.
■Mahsa also won the AM7.
Well done to all competitors, running committees, sponsors, and volunteers on an awesome weekend of competition.
Happy Riding from the Upper Yarra Pony Club.
Healesville’s Under 15s after a 9-goal thriller at Bayswater. (Sally Cunningham).
The Under 16 girls from Healesville Soccer Club after another convincing win. (Sally Cunningham).
Upper Yarra Pony Club winners from the weekend. (Supplied)
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