Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 1st September 2026

Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

Knox City Council proposes pet limits

New senior learning centre opens at Belgrave Heights

Macclesfield Landcare celebrates its 30th birthday

Real estate liftout inside

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A Star News Group Publication

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Hawks cap off brilliant season

By Mikayla Van Loon and Shamsiya Hussainpoor Boronia Hawks capped off an impressive season by reaching their first EFNL Women’s Premier Division Grand Final, facing reigning champions Park Orchards at HE Parker Reserve on Saturday, 29 August.

The Hawks entered the decider full of confidence after their dramatic one-point preliminary final victory over ladder leaders South Croydon. However, Park Orchards proved too strong, keeping Boronia scoreless in the first half before running out 42-14 winners.

Jasmine Coney and Klara Vickov found the goals after half-time, while Harriet Knijff, Ali Gottliebsen, Paige Deane, Kelsie Ternes, Briannan Lambe and Jemima Fulton were among Boronia’s best.

Despite the result, coach Sean Buncle said reaching the Grand Final reflected the group’s hard work, belief and connection, highlighting the strong foundations being built within the club.

Read the full story on page 37 The Hawks congratulate their opponents following the Grand Final. (Mikayla Van Loon: 575278)

Yes for childcare He said traffic engineers had assessed the proposal and found that, while traffic would increase, the road would continue to operate efficiently. He also said the 16 on-site parking spaces meant the centre would not rely on street parking.

Cr Peter Mcilwain said he was “very torn” by the competing concerns but ultimately relied on professional advice from council officers regarding traffic and safety.

The motion was carried.

Read the full story on page 6

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She raised concerns about existing traffic problems, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times, as well as additional vehicle movements created by the centre. Noise was also a concern, with Ms Muratore questioning whether an acoustic assessment conducted during the June school holidays accurately reflected normal school-term conditions.

Planning consultant Michael Dunn supported the application, describing the centre as a moderately sized facility in a location close to Upwey Primary School, Upwey High School and other community facilities.

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Yarra Ranges Council has approved a proposed childcare centre at 17 Darling Avenue, Upwey, despite concerns from residents about traffic, noise and the impact on the character of the quiet residential street.

Councillors voted at their fortnightly meeting on Tuesday, 25 August, to grant a permit for the centre and an internally illuminated business identification sign, subject to conditions.

The proposal would cater for around 80 children and employ 24 educators. It would operate

from 6.30am to 6.30pm, Monday to Friday, with 16 on-site car parking spaces.

Darling Avenue resident Amy Muratore, who has lived on the street for more than 12 years, told councillors that 11 objections had been received during the application process, representing the majority of the 15 homes along the street.

Ms Muratore said residents were not opposed to childcare, but questioned whether a centre of this scale was appropriate for Darling Avenue, which she described as a narrow, one-way residential street.

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By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

NEWS

Local fire captains respond

By Claudia Mather The Australian and New Zealand Council for Fire and Emergency Services (AFAC) have released Victoria’s national bushfire outlook for spring.

The seasonal outlook is the result of a complex analysis by expert fire specialists across Australia, with climate prediction and fire weather experts from the Bureau of Meteorology.

Fire authorities are predicting a heightened risk of fire across some parts of the state. The areas marked in red on the map, including east Gippsland, the Geelong region and far west near Portland, represent an increased risk of fire, largely driven by below average rainfall and dry conditions.

At this stage, the Yarra Ranges sits at an ‘average’ risk of fire level, though AFAC chief executive officer Rob Webb explained that, “while some areas are facing an elevated risk of fire this spring, bushfires can still occur in regions with normal seasonal outlook.”

Communities across the outer east are encouraged to stay informed, monitor local conditions and follow advice from fire and emergency services as the season unfolds.

Selby CFA captain Paul Mather agreed that “just because the Dandenong Ranges are not showing in the red zone on the recent AFAC Seasonal Bushfire Outlook, history has shown us that we can still experience bushfires on any given summer.”

He further explained that living in the Yarra Ranges and Yarra Valley goes hand in hand with making sure properties are prepared every summer against the risk of bushfire.

Similarly, Lilydale CFA captain, Warren Davis said, “a lot of it comes back to homeowners and landowners, to make sure they abide by the cleaning up around their property.”

“Trying to make sure that if a fire did start, you’re giving it less fuel to burn if you’ve cleaned up around your property,” he said.

Many factors contribute to higher bushfire risk in an area, including below-average rainfall and dry soil.

“If we are way down on rain and up in temperature, we know then that the growth, the fuel on the forest floor is gonna dry out a lot quicker. And therefore it’s more vulnerable to any sparks or embers from other fires that are burning in the area to ignite,” Mr Davis said.

Having an understanding of when things

Local CFA brigades remind residents to know and practice bushfire plans. (Supplied) change environmentally can also assist in understanding when the bushfire season has started.

“When you start to notice dry leaf litter, grass curing, drier soils and the weather trends towards dry and windy forecasts, this is normally a significant indicator that the fire season has begun,” Mr Mather said.

Despite the AFAC results showing the outer east sitting in that average risk level, authorities confirm that the lead up for the bushfire season should not look any different to if it was a high risk area.

“Conditions and weather can change quickly if the rain becomes less frequent,” the Selby

captain said.

Mr Davis encourages anyone with fire pumps or hoses to begin checking that they work, prior to the fire season starting.

“Get out there now and start maintaining all of your fire equipment,” he said.

“Each year, Selby CFA - like all CFA brigades - is busy conducting skill maintenance, checking equipment, and ensuring as a brigade we are ready for another long, dry summer.”

Knowing your bushfire plan and practising it, preparing your property and staying informed through VicEmergency and Fire Danger Ratings are three simple steps that locals can do to stay safe leading into the bushfire season.

AFAC spring bushfire risk outlook for Victoria via AFAC report.

Cardinia Shire seeks investment to seal priority roads Cardinia Shire Council is seeking critical funding support ahead of the State election for priority road sealing projects to improve safety, strengthen emergency access and enhance liveability for our community.

With one of the largest unsealed road networks in Melbourne, Cardinia Shire Council is responsible for maintaining more than 800 kilometres of unsealed roads – roughly the distance from Melbourne to Sydney.

For many residents, these roads are part of everyday life. But they also create ongoing challenges, including dust, potholes, rough road surfaces, safety risks, emergency access issues and costly maintenance.

Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Brett Owen said sealing priority roads was essential for communities right across the shire.

“Unsealed roads continue to create safety, access and reliability challenges for communities across our shire, particularly during emergencies,” Mayor Owen said.

“When every minute counts, the condition of a road can make a real difference to how quickly people can leave, and how quickly emergency services can reach those who need help.

“By sealing priority roads, we can make everyday travel safer and more reliable, while improving emergency access and giving residents, emergency services and volunteers greater confidence during severe conditions.”

Mayor Owen said Cardinia Shire was one of Melbourne’s most disaster-prone municipalities, with communities facing significant risks from bushfire, flooding and severe storms.

“In the Dandenong Ranges, bushfire risk is a major concern, with the entire area included in the Victorian Government’s Bushfire At-Risk Register. In the Hills, major storms can quickly cut off power and road access, making it harder for residents and emergency services to get in and out safely.

2 MAIL | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

L-R: Ranges Ward Councillor David Nickell, Paul from CRAG21, and Mayor Cr Brett Owen.

(Supplied) “And in the southern parts of Cardinia Shire, communities near the Bunyip River and Western Port Bay also face flooding risks.

“When severe weather strikes, unsealed roads can quickly become damaged, unsafe or difficult to access, creating additional challenges for residents and emergency responders.”

President of the Cockatoo Road Action Group for the 21st century (CRAG 21), Paul, said residents living on unsealed roads dealt with constant dust, road damage and safety concerns.

“Whenever there’s heavy rain, our driveway washes away, and the road continually gets ruts.

We live on a road that gets, by Council’s count, 250 to 300 cars a day, so in summer we get dust

to the point that it’s a fog. It becomes a major health and safety issue,” Paul said.

“Ninety-five per cent of the population around here want their street sealed, or at least the main access roads in and out of their streets sealed.”

Emerald resident David said narrow roads, deep drains, potholes and limited access were a major concern for residents, particularly in emergencies.

“We’re only 50km from the city but we feel forgotten out here,” David said.

“The biggest problem we have is the number of potholes, dust when it’s dry, mud and potholes when it’s wet, the depth of the drains that

are along the dirt roads, and roads that aren’t wide enough for a car and a truck to pass safely.

“The three streets in our area have only one way in and out. If there’s a bushfire, we’re locked in, and with the depth of drains and potholes, and the intersection of the three roads, it’s a real concern.”

Mayor Owen said sealing key routes would deliver significant safety, access and liveability benefits for the community.

“Sealing priority roads would help create safer, more reliable routes for our community, while reducing the need for ongoing grading, drainage works and repairs following severe weather events.

“As one of Victoria’s fastest-growing municipalities, Council cannot deliver these projects alone. Support from other levels of government is needed to accelerate the sealing of priority roads and help communities access safer, more resilient road connections.

“Our community has been calling for safe and reliable roads for many years. With investment and support from other levels of government, we can improve everyday travel, strengthen emergency access, and help ensure communities in disaster-prone areas have safer routes when they need them most.”

The call for investment to seal priority roads forms part of Council’s advocacy campaign ahead of the State Election, aimed at securing the infrastructure and services needed to support Cardinia Shire’s growing population.

Other key advocacy priorities include: ■ Cardinia Life redevelopment.

■ Essential parks and open space projects.

■ Lang Lang bypass .

■ Improved public transport .

■ Local higher education.

To learn more about Cardinia Shire Council’s advocacy priorities, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov. au/advocacy

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NEWS

IN BRIEF Car crashes into cafe Police are investigating after a car crashed into a cafe at Knox City shopping centre in Wantirna South during the afternoon of Monday 24 August.

Emergency services were called to reports of the crash at the premises on Burwood Highway at about 12.45pm.

A female patron outside the premises died at the scene. A second patron was assessed by Ambulance paramedics at the scene. The driver and passenger of the vehicle were both transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives attended to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Police do not believe the incident was an intentional act.

The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has footage or any information isurged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333000 or submit an online confidential report atcrimestoppersvic.com.au.

Pedestrian critically injured after bus collision

George Hetrel is remembered for his passion, generosity and love of the community. (Supplied)

The Basin farewells a community champion

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor Much-loved member of The Basin community George Hetrel, who generously opened both his home and his heart to others, died “peacefully” and “without any pain” at his home on Monday, 24 August, aged 95.

His step-daughter, Emma Davies, described her step-father as a “very hardworking” and “generous” man who was passionate about giving back to his community.

“He loved giving back to the community,” she said.

Mr Hetrel and his wife, Pat, owned a property at Como Gardens in The Basin, where they opened their gardens to the public twice a year to raise funds for the SES and St John Ambulance.

Ms Davies said her step-father had two great loves: his community and his cars.

“He donated money to the local [The Basin] football club. He’s donated money to the SES and St John Ambulance…and he used to dress up as Father Christmas and drive the fire engine truck around and give out lollies to the local community and children,” she said.

Mr Hetrel is remembered as a man who “loved living” and supported others wherever and whenever he could.

Among the organisations he supported were The Basin Football Club, SES, CFA, St John Ambulance, his former boarding school at Yanco, RACV, the Veteran and Vintage Car Club, and the Victorian Flagmarshalling Team (VFT).

The VFT paid tribute to Mr Hetrel in a Facebook post following his death.

“It is with great sadness that we learned today that George Hetrel recently passed away at the age of nearly 95,” the post reads.

“George was a well respected historic racing driver, with his beloved 1927 Bugatti Type 35C. Additionally he was well known for the 20 years that he and his wife Pat opened their beautiful gardens to the public at Como Gardens in The Basin, and gave generously to many community organisations…”

Mr Hetrel served as patron of the VFT from 2006 until 2024.

The organisation said he brought a “wealth of knowledge” and advice gained through many years of involvement in motorsport, both in Australia and overseas.

“During his years as Patron, George and Pat generously invited the club to use their beautiful property for our Christmas party each year and as well as enjoying their magnificent gardens, members were able to ride on the delightful steam/diesel train that ran around the property, and view George’s amazing collection of cars and memorabilia,” the VFT posted.

“George was such a kind hearted, warm and friendly man and he was so proud to be associated with our club. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him and our deepest sympathies go to Pat and their families. Rest in Peace.”

For Ms Davies, the way Mr Hetrel lived his life offered valuable lessons for others.

“He enjoyed life and worked hard, he worked hard for what he wanted in his life, he was a high achiever, that’s for sure,” she said.

Those wishing to pay their last respects can attend a funeral service on Friday, 4 September, at The Basin Football Club at Batterham Reserve at 2pm, an organisation Mr Hetrel loved and supported for many years.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mr Hetrel’s name to the RSPCA would be gratefully received.

Dr John Gyorki Belgrave Surgi Centre

An 84-year-old woman remains in a critical condition after she was struck by a bus outside Knox City Shopping Centre in Wantirna South on Monday, August 24.

Emergency services, including Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria, attended the scene after the collision was reported about 11.55am.

An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said MICA and ALS paramedic crews transported the woman by road ambulance to The Alfred with lower body injuries. The bus driver was not physically injured and there were no passengers on board. Police said the circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be established and the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information, CCTV or dashcam footage, or who witnessed the collision, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online.

Emerald CFA responds to three calls Residents around Emerald may have noticed the sound of fire sirens several times on Friday, 28 August, with the Emerald CFA crew responding to three separate incidents in the space of just a couple of hours.

The first call came at around 11.20am, when crews were alerted to a column of smoke showing. Just over half an hour later, at 11.54am, the brigade was called to a vehicle into a structure.

A third call came through at 1.19pm, again involving a vehicle into a structure.

Emerald CFA confirmed on Facebook that the two vehicle incidents were unrelated. There were no serious injuries reported across any of the three incidents.

Three charged after alleged car thefts A 21-year-old Tecoma man is among three men charged following an alleged hit-run and police pursuit in Melbourne’s south-east on August 28.

Police said a stolen Toyota 86 was involved in a three-vehicle collision on Beach Road, Black Rock, about 8.50am before being dumped on Bluff Road. A stolen Subaru WRX was later spotted nearby and followed before being abandoned at a shopping centre in Cheltenham.

Three men were arrested. The Tecoma man was charged with theft of motor vehicle and committing an indictable offence while on bail. All three are expected to appear in court at a later date.

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Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL 3

NEWS

Community and council oppose costly glass bin

Animal-management changes were questioned at Knox City Council’s meeting on Monday, 24 August. (On file)

Pet rules under fire

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

this year.

According to Agriculture Victoria, some 80 per cent of dog attacks in public places occur when dogs are not adequately confined to their properties.

Mr McNally said Clause 32 would allow council officers to require inadequate fencing to be repaired or improved to prevent animals escaping and causing harm.

“The purpose of Clause 32 is to provide officers with the ability to direct a dog owner to repair, maintain, or improve fencing where it is insufficient to securely contain a dog,” he said.

“This is intended to improve the community safety and support animal welfare outcomes by reducing the risk of dogs escaping, becoming lost, being injured, or causing harm to other animals or people.”

An enclosure could be used where a fence was not an option.

Knox City Council is calling for a rethink of Victoria’s planned fourth glass recycling bin.

(On file)

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During Monday’s, 24 August, Knox City Council meeting, proposed pet limits and fencing requirements came under fire, with Knox AdvoCats spokesperson Ashlley Morgan-Shae apprising the changes could make pet ownership unaffordable for some residents.

During the meeting, Ms Morgan-Shae raised her concerns about permit costs, fencing requirements and the impact on renters, students, elderly residents, families and animal rescuers.

She said a neighbour with five free-roaming chickens would need to pay an additional permit to keep two more.

“Excess animals will more likely face death than find a home,” she said.

Director of Knox city liveability, Jonathan McNally said the draft local law ‘did not change’ the maximum number of animals that could be kept

on a property.

“The limitation on animal numbers per property has not changed from the current local law, however, for consistency, the requirement for a permit now applies to all properties in Knox, regardless of property size,” he said.

Mr McNally said the proposed change was not intended to ‘deprive animals of homes’, reduce animal welfare outcomes or increase the risk of euthanasia.

“Council recognises the important role that companion animals play in people’s lives,” he said.

“The purpose of the permit requirement is to support responsible pet ownership and enable council to appropriately assess and monitor circumstances where higher numbers of animals are kept.”

Mr McNally also said the additional-animal application fee was $308 in the adopted budget

Knox City Council has joined 38 other Victorian councils calling on the State Government to pause the planned rollout of a fourth household bin for glass.

The councils, united under the ‘Let’s be clear on glass’ campaign, are calling for the government to release the business case for the glass bin and investigate expanding the Container Deposit Scheme as an alternative.

A statewide survey conducted in May found nearly 86 per cent of Knox residents opposed introducing a fourth household bin for glass recycling.

The survey also found 88 per cent of Knox respondents supported expanding the Container Deposit Scheme to include glass wine and spirit bottles.

Under current Victorian policy, councils are required to introduce a purple glass recycling bin for all homes by mid-2027.

Independent modelling cited by council estimates the service would cost about $1.43 million a year to operate, or approximately $27 per household each year, with limited benefits.

Knox Mayor Cr Paige Kennett said the survey showed strong community support for an alternative approach.

“It is clear that community members agree that introducing a fourth bin would place additional financial pressure on residents at a time when cost-of-living pressures are high,” Mayor Kennett said.

She said Knox residents were already using the Container Deposit Scheme, with an average of 2.3 million containers recycled each month through local refund points and reverse vending machines.

“Expanding the scheme would give Knox residents an accessible, affordable and environmentally-responsible alternative for recycling glass,” Cr Kennett said.

More than 25,000 responses were received across Victoria, with Knox results broadly matching the statewide findings.

The survey results have been provided to the Victorian Government for consideration.

4 MAIL | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

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NEWS

Action plan questioned

By Claudia Mather Councillors reviewed the 2026-2027 Council Action Plan at the Yarra Ranges Council meeting on Tuesday 25 August.

Lyster Ward Councillor Peter Mcilwain brought to the table several points of discussion surrounding initiative eight in the action plan.

For this initiative, the council plans to deliver programs to strengthen the community’s climate adaptation and resilience to climate impacts and support the transition to a low-carbon future.

They aim to do this by increasing the use of renewable energy, improving energy efficiency and fostering sustainable practices in local businesses and homes.

Cr Mcilwain argued that prioritising shortterm budget fixes over long-term climate action will only lead to greater financial burdens in the long run as the consequences of inaction accumulate.

He explained that the council continues to carry a wide range of responsibilities on a limited and shrinking budget remarkably well.

“But those budget pressures require us to set priorities. Often these priorities are guided by short-term criticalities while the long-term challenge of climate change is pushed to the back.

“However, economic modelling, for example, that we see from Stern and Garnaut reports, clearly shows that delaying climate action does not avoid cost. It compounds it,” he said.

Cr Mcilwain affirmed that he would support the plan, but he wanted to be clear about where it fell short so that future versions of the plan address shortcomings.

He said that for more than fifteen years through council plans, environmental policies and a declaration of the climate emergency in 2019, the council has recognised the threat of climate change and what the threat poses.

“We have also said repeatedly that Council must provide leadership in guiding our community towards that goal. But our climate work

Councillors discussed the 2026-2027 council action plan in a recent meeting. (Stewart Chambers: 379657) has focused heavily on Council’s own emissions, which amount to half of one per cent of the shire’s total emissions,” he argued.

Cr Mcilwain believes that reduction of community-wide emissions is falling well short and though initiative eight might have some useful milestone goals to work towards, they are not emission reduction milestones.

He questions how they will replace fossil fuel machinery with efficient electric alternatives powered by clean energy.

“How do we do that quickly, fairly and at scale? That is the dominant question everyone is called on to answer,” he asked the council.

Cr Mcilwain explained that through identifying, promoting and funding practical proj-

ects, measurable reductions could be achieved across the Shire.

“For example, I have proposed a solar farm project that could bring clean energy to potentially thousands of homes who currently have solar because of tree shading or for other reasons.

“As one of the most climate affected councils in the country, our community needs this leadership and we know from our recent engagement that the community expects this of us,” he said to the councillors.

Cr Mcilwain believes that, as a community, transitioning to a strong local economy driven by clean, locally-generated energy is possible.

“Community wide emissions reduction should be treated as a priority, not an optional extra, and this needs to be reflected in our next budget round.”

Melba Ward Councillor Mitch Mazzarella briefly spoke to Cr Mcilwain’s points of argument.

“I appreciate councillor Mcilwain’s passion for climate change and the environment.”

He touched on the considerable progress being made on a number of the plan’s objectives.

“In particular, I’m pleased with our drainage improvement and that’s something that Councillor Heenan and I have been very passionate about,” he said.

“The milestones for year two talk about the delivery of our drainage upgrade works for 27/28 and some flood mapping done with Melbourne Water to get progressed.”

The plan includes 16 initiatives across four focus areas: healthy connected communities, protected and enhanced natural environment, quality infrastructure and liveable places, and prosperous communities and vibrant economy.

These milestones give the community clear points to be able to track and measure how the council is doing according to the goals set out in the plan.

Councillors voted to move the motion unanimously.

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Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL 5

NEWS

Upwey childcare plan backed

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor During its fortnightly council meeting on Tuesday, 25 August, Yarra Ranges Council voted to approve a proposed childcare centre at 17 Darling Avenue, Upwey, despite concerns from residents about traffic, noise and the impact on the character of the quiet residential street.

Yarra Ranges councillors voted to grant a permit for the proposed childcare centre and internally illuminated business identification sign, subject to conditions.

The proposal is for a childcare centre catering for about 80 children and employing 24 educators.

The centre would operate from 6.30am to 6.30pm, Monday to Friday, with 16 on-site car parking spaces proposed.

According to Darling Avenue resident Amy Muratore, who also attended Tuesday’s meeting, 11 objections were received during the application process, representing the majority of the 15 homes lining Darling Avenue.

Ms Muratore, who has lived on Darling Avenue for over 12 years and is a direct neighbour of the proposed development, told councillors residents were not opposed to childcare itself, but questioned whether a centre of this scale was appropriate for the location.

“Darling Avenue is a narrow, one-way, quiet residential street,” she said.

She described the street as being predominantly made up of single-storey homes, established gardens and residential properties.

“Darling Avenue already experiences significant traffic management problems during school drop-off and pick-ups. We see vehicles stopping where they should not, obstructing driveways, stopping in the middle of the road, and disregarding existing signage. At least once a day, someone drives the wrong way down this one-way street,” Ms Muratore said.

She said children walking to and from nearby schools and the railway station also used the street.

Yarra Ranges councillors considered the proposed childcare centre on Darling Avenue, Upwey.

(Stewart Chambers: 379657) Ms Muratore argued the childcare centre would add another source of vehicle movements throughout the day and potentially extend existing periods of traffic pressure.

Noise was another major concern.

Ms Muratore questioned the applicant’s acoustic assessment because measurements were taken on 29 June, 2026, the first day of the June school holidays.

“We question whether that June school holiday acoustic report provides a representative picture of a normal school term conditions, particularly around the primary school’s lunchtime activity,” she said.

The proposed 6.30am opening time was also raised, with Ms Muratore saying staff and vehicle movements could begin while residents were sleeping.

“And the same principle applies to the proposed illuminated sign. A brightly illuminated sign

can be entirely appropriate in a commercial center, but placing it immediately beside a residential bedroom is another matter,” she said.

Speaking in support of the council officers’ recommendation, planning consultant Michael Dunn said the proposed centre was a moderately sized childcare facility and would be located near Upwey Primary School and Upwey High School.

Mr Dunn said the location made sense because of the number of community facilities in the area.

He said both council’s traffic engineers and the applicant’s traffic engineer had assessed the proposal and found that, while it would increase traffic on the local street, it would not affect the road’s efficient operation.

Mr Dunn also said the site’s 16 on-site parking spaces meant the proposal was not relying on street parking.

“There’s a strong need for childcare places in this location…otherwise, they wouldn’t be seek-

ing to locate the centre here,” he said.

He also defended the timing of the acoustic assessment, saying the lower background noise recorded during the school holidays resulted in a more conservative assessment.

Cr Peter Mcilwain questioned Mr Dunn about whether a lower background noise level meant greater requirements for acoustic mitigation.

Yarra Ranges Council’s executive officer of statutory planning, Katie Douglas, confirmed this was the case.

Ms Douglas said a lower background noise level meant a higher standard had to be met to protect surrounding amenity.

Cr Jeff Marriott said he had closely examined the application and the relevant planning provisions.

“The proposal would provide for 80 children and 24 employees. Some of those may be previously employed, but that could be people with new jobs in the area,” he said.

Cr Marriott said council officers had raised no objections to the proposal, with conditions applying in some areas.

Cr McIlwain said he had spent significant time considering the application and was “very torn” over the competing interests.

He acknowledged residents’ concerns about the additional use of Darling Avenue but said council also needed to consider the community’s need for childcare places.

Ultimately, Cr McIlwain said he had to rely on the professional advice provided by council officers regarding traffic and safety.

“I do understand the concerns of the community here,” he said.

“On balance, that’s where I land. That I think we need to pass this motion.”

Mayor Richard Higgins then put the motion to a vote.

The motion was carried.

Voluntary health amalgamation approved by state

By Claudia Mather On Friday 28 August, the Victorian Minister for Health officially approved the voluntary amalgamation of Eastern Health (EH) and Alexandra District Health (ADH).

The establishments plan to voluntarily amalgamate from 1 November 2026 and have confirmed that until then services, staffing and day-to-day operations will continue as normal and there are no immediate changes.

The amalgamation builds on both services’ strong existing partnership, with EH already delivering forty percent of hospital care for Alexandra residents.

Eastern Health Board Chair Eugene Arocca said the approval reflects the strength of a partnership that is already delivering for patients.

“This decision allows us to plan and deliver services in a more coordinated way, and to build on what is already working,” said Mr Arocca.

Minister for Health Ingrid Stitt approved the voluntary merger after both health services demonstrated it would deliver clear benefits for their communities.

This approval means that both EH and ADH will work as one system, with their aim being to make it easier for patients to access the care they need closer to home.

“This is about making the system work better for patients – less travel, better connections between services and more care available closer to home,” said Ms Stitt.

Alexandra District Health Board Chair Kim Flanagan welcomed the Minister’s decision.

“Today’s announcement is a positive outcome for the Alexandra and district community.

It will strengthen local health services and includes safeguards to protect local identity, leadership and community involvement,” he said.

“We will now work closely with Eastern Health to implement the Minister’s decision and ensure the benefits of the voluntary amalgamation are realised for our community.”

Eastern Health have said that the voluntary amalgamation will create a more sustainable local health service in Alexandra and support further connected care across the rural-metro-

6 MAIL | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

Minister approves EH and ADH voluntary amalgamation. (Supplied) politan catchment.

The merger will mean that more specialist care is available in Alexandra, including lowcomplexity surgery, a new dialysis service and improved access to diagnostics.

It will also create stronger workforce sustainability, supported by expanded training and career pathways across rural and metropolitan settings.

This includes access to Eastern Health training programs, commencement of an allied health graduate program from 2027, extension of learning management and scholarship programs, and opportunities for postgraduate education and specialist supervision.

It is believed that EH and ADH coming together as one health service will help meet the changing needs of the Alexandra and district community, including an ageing population and growing demand for specialist and chronic care.

The health minister believes that patients

will benefit from better coordination between the two services, making it easier to move through the health system.

This would include referrals through to treatment and recovery and getting the right care, closer to home.

While the topic of the healthcare merger has not raised many alarm bells for locals in the Yarra Ranges, it has for some community members in Alexandra and the Murrindindi Shire.

As mentioned in a previous Star Mail article, Chairperson of Services for Healesville Hospital Action Group Jane Judd believed there would be some backlash from Alexandra and Murrindindi Shire locals.

“There was a pretty vocal community concerned that there wouldn’t be any benefits,” she said.

The Murrindindi Council opened a survey earlier this year where they received 278 responses from the local community.

The survey showed that 64 to 67 percent of

respondents in the Murrindindi Shire were opposed to the amalgamation.

“For the merger to work, the Alexandra community has to get access to a greater number of services locally, and it looked like from the board of ADH’s comments, that they felt the staff were in favour of the merger,” Ms Judd said.

With the Minister’s official approval in place, the focus will shift toward the planning of the voluntary amalgamation scheduled for November 1, 2026.

“We are proud of the process we undertook and grateful to the many staff, community members and stakeholders who contributed to the structured engagement process,” said Mr Flanagan.

Until then, both Eastern Health and Alexandra District Health will continue to operate as normal.

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NEWS

Victorians lost over $3.3 billion on electronic gaming machines in 2025/26. (File)

Record losses on the pokies

By Callum Ludwig The Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA) has revealed that Victorians lost lost a record $3.318 billion on the pokies in 2025/26.

The VLGA collects data for the amount loss in each local government area (LGA), with concerning increases seen across the whole state.

Knox City Council issued a media release to outline its concern after it was revealed that $84,028,449.80 was lost on electronic gaming machines (EGMs) in 2025/26, an increase of 6.05 per cent.

Knox mayor Paige Kennett said gambling losses in Knox reflect a concerning statewide trend of increasing losses from EGMs. “Council has established a new Gambling Harm Prevention Policy and as part of the Alliance for Gambling Reform we are calling on state and federal governments to introduce reforms to prevent and minimise gambling harm,” she said.

“These include a permanent reduction in gambling room operating hours, which would see venues closed from midnight to 10am.

“We are also seeking reduced maximum bets of $1 per spin on EGMs.” There are 771 licensed EGMs in Knox, and the council is not aware of any pending applications for new EGMs in the municipality.

Cr Kennett said they want to see the Community Benefit Scheme have a more transparent reporting process, and the removal of sponsorships and operating costs as eligible community benefit claims.

“There needs to be greater transparency of the Victorian Government’s Community Support Fund at a local government level,” she said.

“Council has a strong partnership with Gambler’s Help to deliver community awareness sessions, including working with sporting clubs on gambling harm prevention, and we have developed a new help card for people concerned about their own or someone else’s gambling.”

In the Yarra Ranges, $33,023,262.04 was lost in 2025.26, up 9.37 per cent on the year prior with a daily loss of $90,474.69.

Yarra Ranges Council’s director of communities Leanne Hurst said the council recognises that gambling harm is a significant public health and community wellbeing issue.

“Gambling can cause financial stress, reduced wellbeing, mental health ill-health and other impacts extending beyond the person who gambles, to their families, children and broader community,” she said.

“Our staff undertake many roles to improve community health and wellbeing, recognising that gambling harm is often inter-connected with other health priorities.

“We proactively monitor gambling impacts in the Yarra Ranges and work with community health partners to raise awareness and understanding of gambling risks, harm reduction and to promote services and referral pathways to help people with gambling addiction.”

There are 452 licensed EGMs in the Yarra Ranges.

Ms Hurst said every year, community members lose significant amounts of money on electronic gaming machines.

“The Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme contains local requirements for gaming machines that plays a role in prevention and harm reduction, through

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guiding our planning decisions about the location of gaming machines and applying careful scrutiny of applications for the installation or expansion of electronic gaming machines,” she said.

“There are currently no applications lodged with Council for venues looking to increase their number of machines.

“As part of Gambling Harm Awareness Week, from the 24 - 31 October this year, Council will be working with community health partners to promote their services. EACH provides a free gambler’s help service for anyone affected by gambling harms or wanting to help someone in their life.”

Find out more about Gambler’s Help by calling 1300 003 224.

In Cardinia, EGM losses in 2025-26 totalled $41,149,621, representing a 4.25 per cent increase from losses of $39,473,887 in 2024-25. Losses on EGMs in Cardinia averaged $112,739 per day.

Cardinia Shire Council mayor Brett Owen said although there are currently no active applications for additional EGMs in the shire, the council recently lodged an application with the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) to review the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission’s decision to approve 20 additional electronic gaming machines at Club Officer.

“Consistent with Council’s objection to the proposal, Council considers the additional EGMs will increase access to electronic gaming, gambling expenditure, and the associated risk of gamblingrelated harm within Cardinia Shire,” he said.

“Council considers these adverse impacts will not be outweighed by the proposal’s social and economic benefits.”

There are 405 licensed machines in the Cardinia LGA. Cr Owen said the Council’s position on the Club Officer application is informed by an independent social and economic impact assessment, which identified a heightened risk of gamblingrelated harm if the additional machines were approved.

“This concern is particularly significant because Cardinia Shire does not currently have adequate dedicated local services for people experiencing gambling-related harm, requiring residents to travel outside the shire to access support.”

In Maroondah, $66,066,673.76 was lost, up 2.91 per cent on the year prior and at a daily average of $181,004.59.

At this stage, Maroondah City Council are not aware of any other applications from venues in Maroondah seeking to increase the number of electronic gaming machines.

A VLGA spokesperson said they work to support councils in their response to gambling harm in their community through advising on gambling focused policy and supporting councils who receive electronic gaming machine applications in their municipality.

“Councils are best placed to provide evidence towards any application for increased EGM machines which includes community sentiment, social and economic impact, and the views of Councillor representatives elected by the community in order for the state regulator to make an informed decision,” they said.

“Councils are the closest level of Government to the community, and they have an important role in supporting positive health and wellbeing outcomes for their residents.”

Into The Wild Gardens in Kallista is helping local residents create and maintain outdoor spaces that reflect the natural beauty of the Dandenong Ranges. Led by Kye Gamgee, Into The Wild Gardens has built a reputation for quality workmanship, personalised service and a genuine passion for landscaping in the hills environment.

Specialising in landscape construction and garden maintenance, the team offers a range of services including retaining walls, drainage solutions, native plantings and complete garden transformations.

Their experience with challenging hills properties ensures every project is designed to be both practical and visually appealing while complementing the surrounding landscape.

A key part of Into The Wild Gardens is its dedicated maintenance team, which provides professional garden services for clients receiving Support At Home, Home Care Packages, the Commonwealth Home Support Programme, DVA, TAC, WorkCover and other government funded or insurance related services. The team understands the importance of keeping outdoor areas safe, accessible and enjoyable, helping people remain independent and comfortable in their own homes.

Into The Wild Gardens works closely with clients, families and service providers to deliver reliable maintenance solutions tailored to individual needs. This community focused approach has made the business a trusted choice for many residents throughout the region.

With a strong commitment to sustainability, functionality and customer care, Into The Wild Gardens continues to enhance homes and gardens across the hills, creating spaces where people can connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of their local environment for years to come.

12879239-AF31-26

Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL 7

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8 MAIL | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

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NEWS

‘Book-less’ chaos in shops

By Claudia Mather Book shops all across the country have been left book-less, amidst book week craziness, after a major distributor, Alliance Distribution Services (ADS), was affected by a cyberattack.

The alleged cyberattack occurred over five weeks ago, and since then book shops have had invoice orders cancelled, new releases missing from shelves and have been left with very little communication to relay to their community. .

Alliance Distribution Services is a subsidiary of Hachette Australia. They are one of the largest publishing groups in the country and dispatch over 18 million units annually.

Not only do they distribute to major Australian book stores such as QBD but also to independent bookstores.

Local favourite Verso Books in Healesville has been one amongst the many independent bookstores affected by the ADS situation.

Verso Books owner, Nina Sturgess explained that since the incident happened, she was told very little by ADS or Hachette.

“We have been impacted for the last six weeks,” she explained. “We basically haven’t had any deliveries from that particular distributor.”

Ms Sturgess said that the official information she was provided when it happened was that ADS detected unauthorised activity in their computer systems.

“Their entire systems went offline for a substantial period, like phones, emails, everything.

Any orders that were sent to them were lost.”

This has meant that any new titles and all replenishment stock has not been delivered to the book shop.

Similarly, Novel Nook book shop owner, Naomi Gibson said she has been without Alliance stock since.

“It’s been very frustrating, not being able to get a lot of my top sellers. I sell a lot of fantasy, horror, dark romance, which they supply through Hachette and I haven’t been able to get anything new or replenished,” she said.

Both owners feel as though they have had to try and explain to customers what has happened, despite not knowing themselves, due to the lack of communication from ADS. “They have put in place a couple of measures to try and help us out,” Ms Sturgess explained.

One of these measures was transferring 1000 copies of their top titles to major Australian online bookseller Booktopia.

The book shop owners had to then shop for those specific titles through one of their biggest competitors.

“It was really disappointing to see that people were being redirected to Booktopia,” Miss Gibson said. “It’s hard enough as an indie book seller and then having to compete with the online market as well.”

The result of everyone being redirected to online bookstores such as Booktopia means that independent booksellers have lost some of those sales.

“Anything that drives business away from small business owners and particularly independent bookshops is really challenging,” Ms Stur-

Alliance Distribution Service is currently not delivering to local bookshops. (Claudia Mather: 574782) gess said.

“It’s very tricky when we can’t tell customers exactly when we can get their product, and if Amazon does have it in stock then yeah, that’s a sale loss to a small business.”

The halt on deliveries from ADS has also affected in-store author events, such as book tours.

“I’ve got an author event next week and they hold all of her back list, but I can’t get them because they’re not releasing stock,” Miss Gibson explained.

“I don’t know how I’m going to get the rest of the author’s work apart from trying to see if any other bookshops can lend me any excess on hand.”

Verso Books had a similar situation at their educators evening last week where local author Karen Comer was visiting.

Ms Sturgess explained she had to personally make a trip to the city, visiting other bookshops, to source enough of Ms Comer’s books for the event.

“It’s difficult for authors when they’re turning

up to events and the bookstore can’t get stock of their book,” she said. “I’m sure the team at Hachette are working really hard to kind of make all of that okay, but it’s still very difficult.”

A larger issue has been raised online by Australian author, Maxine Beneba Clarke, who explained that she was never communicated to

by ADS about the situation and later found out through the grapevine from a bookseller.

“Our livelihoods have been draining away behind our backs and it’s an industry secret?” she wrote on a recent Instagram post.

“For me, this will mean the loss of a large part of my income, possibly for years, and the loss of thousands of young readers.”

Ms Sturgess said she understood there were potentially reasons why ADS was unable to communicate with them about the issue but, “the communication with authors has not been addressed.”

“We just assumed that the publisher was taking care of that, and that they would take care of their authors in that way. But sadly, that doesn’t

seem to be the case,” she said.

In a statement, Hachette told Star News that they have been communicating directly with authors, booksellers, agents, industry partners and staff throughout the disruption and are continuing to work closely with affected authors to minimise the impact of publication date changes and support planned event and launch activity wherever possible.

“We know this has been frustrating, and we are sorry for the impact it has had. Restoring full operations securely remains our top priority, and we are grateful for the patience and support of everyone across the industry,” a spokesperson said.

The ADS blackout recovery will continue to serve as a reminder of the fragility of the literary supply chain.Though some books may still be missing from shelves, the high spirits in stores are not.

Local booksellers are remaining optimistic and are encouraging customers to still pop in and place any book orders despite delays.

Henderson Road works complete, promising better safety Major works at the Henderson Road and Ferntree Gully Road intersection in Knoxfield have been completed, with the upgrade aimed at improving safety and traffic flow for the tens of thousands of motorists who use the area each day.

Works began in March and included a new leftturn slip lane from Henderson Road on to Ferntree Gully Road, extended right-turn lanes into Henderson Road and improvements to turning lanes into St Laurent Rise.

Bicycle priority crossings and crossing lanterns were also installed, while the Harley Street bus stop was upgraded.

The project also included drainage, kerb and pavement works, safety barriers and the relocation of power poles and other utilities to allow for road widening.

The nearby Henderson Road and Kelletts Road intersection was also upgraded to improve traffic flow and movements in and out of Henderson Road.

Traffic on Henderson Road has increased since the Henderson Road bridge opened over Corhanwarrabul Creek.

Federal infrastructure minister, Catherine King said the project would deliver safer roads for motorists travelling through Knoxfield.

“We’re proud to have backed this upgrade, which

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Henderson Road and Ferntree Gully Road intersection in Knoxfield has been upgraded. (On file) has delivered safer roads for the tens of thousands of Victorians who drive through Knoxfield every day,”

she said.

Victorian roads and road safety minister, Paul

Hamer said the government was continuing to upgrade roads across Melbourne’s east.

“We’re getting on with the job of upgrading roads across Melbourne’s east, delivering a safer commute for the thousands of people who rely on this intersection every day,” he said.

Federal member for Aston Mary Doyle said the completed works would improve traffic flow, travel times and community access.

“It’s great to see work complete on this major local intersection, which will now see significant improvements to traffic flow, travel times and community access in Knoxfield,” she said.

State members for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region Lee Tarlamis and Michael Galea also welcomed the completion.

Mr Tarlamis said the upgrade would provide “safer, smoother trips” on one of Knoxfield’s busiest thoroughfares, while Mr Galea said the project would give residents a “better, more reliable journey”.

The final stage of major works was completed earlier this month.

The project was delivered by VIDA Roads and fully funded by the Australian Government through a $14.26 million commitment to the Henderson Road Upgrades project.

Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL 9

NEWS

L-R: BHCS principal Peter Cliffe, vice-captain Evie Boniface, school captain Ethan Ruighaver, vicecaptain Rhea Corbeanu, senior student Rhianna Newman and BHCS founder Lynette Thompson.

(575365)

Principal Peter Cliffe cuts the ribbon at the official opening of the new senior learning centre.

BHCS principal Peter Cliffe and State Senator Lisa Darmanin unveil the plaque at the official opening of the new facility.

BHCS opens new facility

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor Belgrave Heights Christian School (BHCS) marked a major milestone in the school’s 43year history on Tuesday, 25 August as it officially opened its new Senior Learning Centre.

The purpose-built facility will provide Year 11 and 12 students, as well as Year 10 students undertaking Year 11 and 12 subjects, a study and wellbeing spaces.

The $12 million project was jointly funded by the Australian Government’s Capital Grants Program and the school community.

BHCS’s principal, Peter Cliffe said the government contributed $2.2 million, with the school providing the remainder.

“It’s amazing, the transformation,” Mr Cliffe said.

“When I started here as principal five years ago, this was just a bush block, a very steep bush block, and now we have this amazing building on it.”

The school purchased the block about six years ago before going through the approval process to build on the site and the construction took about a year to complete.

The centre provides open and collaborative spaces for senior students, including areas for small-group work, meetings with teachers and access to wellbeing staff.

Mr Cliffe said the facility had been designed around the needs of students and would provide an upgraded learning environment for students undertaking VCE and the VCE Vocational Major.

“We offer the VCE here and the VCE Vocational Major, and the current facilities are quite old, so these brand-new facilities will certainly provide a much better learning environment for our students. They’re purpose-built,” he said.

The project is the biggest the school has undertaken in terms of cost.

For one of the school’s three founders, Lynette Thompson, the opening was also an emotional reminder of how far the school had come since it was established in 1983.

Ms Thompson founded the school alongside her mother, Isabella Bell, and their friend, Jennifer Robinson.

“It’s very moving to see this,” Ms Thompson said.

“My husband reminded me that my mother would love this had she been still here and it’s true. It’s just astounding how far it’s come over the many years, from a tiny school in the bush to still bushland around and with over 700, nearly 800 students.”

She recalled the school’s early days, when it operated from small buildings that had previously been part of a campsite.

“There was a kitchen dining room, and they used that for classrooms,” she said.

“There were men’s dormitories which was converted into classrooms.”

The school also had an outdoor chapel in the surrounding bushland.

Ms Thompson said there had been a time when the school faced the possibility of closing because of low student numbers, it later joined with another school that had students but lacked land and buildings, helping to build the community before the other school returned to its own land.

The relationship between the schools has continued, with Ms Thompson describing them

10 MAIL | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

L-R: Vice captain Evie Boniface, school captain Ethan Ruighavervice-captain Rhea Corbeanu and senior student Rhianna Newman (575365)

The BHCS interior design blends style and safety - designed to help prevent students from falling.

The outside of the new senior learning centre.

Inside BHCS’s new senior learning centre.

Senator for Victoria Lisa Darmanin giving speech at the official opening on 25 August.

The ribbon at the new purpose-built facility.

Guests attended the offical opening of the new senior learning centre.

Principal Peter Cliffe gives a speech before the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

as “sister schools”.

More than four decades after its founding, Ms Thompson said she was emotional seeing the school’s growth.

She said seeing buses carrying students into the school was a sign of how far it had come.

“I think it was very much a faith-based thing for each of the people who have been involved along the way,” Ms Thompson said.

“My mother always said nothing is impossible with God. When you take a leap and trust God, He’ll bless it.”

For current senior students, the new centre provides a solution to some of the challenges they faced in the previous facilities.

School vice-captain Evie Boniface said the centre would provide a quieter place to study and complete exams.

“It just means it’s a quiet space where I can study for exams and complete exams,” Evie said.

She said students had previously struggled to find somewhere to study during free periods because of the number of students sharing a small area.

School captain Ethan Ruighaver said the centre gave senior students a space they could con-

sider their own.

“It means we have a home now,” he said.

Ethan said having Years 11 and 12 combined in the same space had been difficult, with the new centre providing more room for students to study, communicate and connect.

Vice school captain Rhea Corbeanu said the new building created a welcoming environment that could make learning more enjoyable.

“With the last facility, we found that it was quite small. It didn’t fit us very well, especially because we’re a bit of a growing school, sometimes we’re too crowded, too loud, just not enough seats or not enough spots,” she said.

Senior student, Rhianna Newman said the centre also created a clearer separation between senior students and the rest of the school.

She described the facility as “a good half step between school and university”, as students move towards a more independent style of learning.

The official opening also brought federal representatives to the school, including Senator for Victoria, Lisa Darmanin and Federal Member for Casey Aaron Violi.

Ms Darmanin said the government was proud to partner with the school on the facility and

highlighted the importance of quality learning environments for students.

“We need schools that are local and be part of the community...particularly in places like this, where sometimes public transport can be a real issue for people,” she said.

Mr Violi said the centre was particularly important for senior students approaching their final exams.

“Teachers matter. Your family matters, and the students’ attitude matters a lot,” he said.

“But combining those with really first class facilities just gives the young people the best chance to succeed.”

Mr Violi also praised the design of the centre and the way it incorporated the steep nature of the site.

With students already beginning to use the new spaces, Mr Cliffe said their response had been positive.

“They’re super excited to be in this new facility with lots of interesting spaces to explore,” Mr Cliffe said.

For Ms Thompson, the opening represented another chapter in a journey that began with three women and a vision for a school in the bush.

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NEWS

10 finalists were honoured at the 2026 Aaron Violi MP’s Casey Apprentice and Trainee Awards.

(Supplied)

Casey apprentices and trainees feted for hard work Apprentices and trainees across the Casey electorate were honoured for their hard work at the 2026 Aaron Violi MP’s Casey Apprentice and Trainee Awards.

The young workers from Mt Evelyn to Warburton received their well-deserved accolades at Chirnside Park Country Club on Thursday 27 August alongside employers, family and friends.

Lilydale-based apprentice plumber Thawng “TT” Lian took the top prize, followed closely by nine other finalists.

Mr Violi congratulated the finalists for setting a gold example for future trades.

“Congratulations to each and every apprentice and trainee who was recognised this year.

“It was fantastic to also recognise the small business owners and employers for their dedication to encouraging the next generation of trades.”

Mr Violi said the awards are about recognising the many things that can be achieved through a career in the trades.

“I want all young people to know that uni-

Thawng “TT” Lian took the top prize. (Supplied)

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versity is not the only pathway to success,” he said.

The Distinguished Finalists included: Jack O’Connell – Apprentice in Commercial Cookery at Alpine Hotel Warburton.

Hayley Stephens – Apprentice Hairdresser at Imperial Edge Hairdressing in Wandin.

The Finalists included: Jai Chandler - Apprentice in Sports Turf Management at Yarra Valley Racing.

Luke Colafella - Electrical Apprentice at CWF Electrical.

Chloe Cross - Early Childhood Education and Care trainee at the Children’s House of Early Learning Mt Evelyn.

Poppi Davies - Apprentice Chef at TarraWarra Estate.

Alex Gibbs - Apprentice Mechanic at Power Torque VIC. Remmi Jakimowicz - Apprentice in Automotive Refinishing Technology at LRS Bodyworks Yarra Junction.

Joseph Maruzza - Apprentice Mechanic at Yarra Valley Ag.

ADVERTISEMENT

A Nail-Biting Finish to Our Footy Tipping Competition!

What a finish to our footy tipping competition! After a season of close calls, big upsets and plenty of bragging rights, we have ended with two equal winners – Greg from Seville Garden Supplies and our very own journalist, Cal! It was certainly a nailbiting finish, with Greg making a bold decision in the final two matches.

Despite being a passionate Collingwood supporter, he decided to tip against his own team in an effort to protect his lead – and it paid off! Meanwhile, Cal took a punt on an outsider in the final round, hoping his gamble would be enough to draw him level with Greg at the top of the leaderboard.

As it turned out, the strategy worked, with both finishing the competition on equal points and sharing the honour of being our winners!

Unfortunately, Cal is not

eligible to take home the prize, but he can certainly share the honour of being crowned one of our 2026 tipping champions. Thanks to the generosity of Ken and Helen Hunt from Monbulk Jewellers, Greg will receive the prize, which we are sure he will enjoy.

Taking out second place was Cindy McLeish, our State Member for Eildon, who was also in the hunt right until the final round.

A huge thank you to all our tipsters for getting involved and making the competition so much fun. And of course, thanks to our readers who kept our tipsters on their toes – giving them a hard time when their tips went astray and plenty of praise when they got it right!

Finally, a very special thank you to Ken and Helen Hunt from Monbulk Jewellers for sponsoring our competition. We couldn't have done it without you!

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Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL 11

Some areas in the Yarra Valley are at risk of Queensland Fruit Fly infestations in fruit.

Although widespread in Victoria, the Yarra Valley region is aiming to prevent QFF issues increasing.

By working together, we can act early, use minimal tools, and protect fruit in the Yarra Valley.

Traps can help you detect QFF locally. Sharing the trap information can help neighbours work together to act early - typically a baiting program, netting and improved property hygiene (removing fruit risks). Your early observations in the traps can promote a speedy response that is really effective. Visit www.fruitflyfreeyv.com.au for more information.

What trap do i use ? How many do I need?

Typically, a grid of male QFF traps is used to detect early QFF activity in an area. Male QFF are attracted to the lure inside just before they begin mating - so these traps need to be out early and checked frequently as populations increase during the season.

Female QFF are mainly attracted to traps with food (protein) scents as they need the nutrition for creating their large volume of eggs. Female QFF are also attracted to fruit scented lures in a trap, likely thinking it is a place to lay the eggs. These traps need to be operational before any fruit starts to ripen - otherwise the real fruit is way more attractive to QFF!!

Most home gardens need 1-2 male QFF traps and 3-4 female QFF traps. Bigger gardens and hobby orchards need more. Check your traps at least weekly, and share the news!

Typical patterns in the Yarra Valley The areas we observe the most activity each season are Lilydale, Coldstream, Yering, Yarra Glen and Silvan. There are isolated cases in other areas too, e.g. Gruyere, Wandin and Yellingbo.

We have observed reduced QFF activity in places where Blackberries and Wild Tobacco are controlled. Unharvested fruit is the greatest risk - contributing to the build up of QFF and then the population spread to new areas.

Traps typically start detecting QFF around Christmas time start the early intervention - pick and clean up all fruit!

traps need to be in place before QFF movement and activity starts (Aim to have traps up in September) hang traps 1.5 m high in a sparse leafy area that is warm, but is out of direct sunlight (and has easy access for you) traps are the most useful when a part of a wider surveillance network traps will only ever tell part of the QFF story - always check fruit for early damages, use local reports and historical data to plan your activity

Reporting your trap finds to the Yarra Valley QFF program can be helpful to the whole region.

Information about you is kept confidential. Only QFF (township area and date found) is shared with others - this promotes early action!

Trapping is an essential tool in the QFF managemet toolbox. Good fruit hygeine, picking all fruit before it falls, netting and baiting are other important tools.

For more information: 0490 381 999 qff@agribusiness-yarravalley.com fruitflyfreeyv.com.au 12895903-MS36-26

12 MAIL | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

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NEWS

Three decades of care

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor For three decades, Macclesfield Landcare has been bringing local landholders together to learn, work and care for the environment around them.

The group is marking a major milestone, celebrating its 30th birthday at the Macclesfield Community Hall on Saturday, 5 September.

The celebration will reflect the group’s focus on learning and community, with short presentations from people involved with Macclesfield Landcare and local land management.

Macclesfield Landcare vice president, Chris Alenson will give a short presentation on the soils of Macclesfield, including their origins and how they can be managed.

With a background in earth sciences and a qualification in sustainable agriculture, Mr Alenson said becoming involved came naturally.

“When you’ve been involved in the Macclesfield area for so long, you feel it’s time to give something back,” he said.

One of the group’s major activities has been tree planting, on the day, the group aims to put more than 400 native plants into the ground before midday.

A recent planting day, the group planted about 500 plants established on a local property, something Mr Alenson described as a “great sense of achievement”.

Across a year, the group estimates more than 2000 native plants are established on properties throughout Macclesfield.

Over the three decades since the group was established, thousands of trees has been planted across the region - but planting is only one part of the group’s work.

Macclesfield Landcare holds up to six events

L-R: Chrissie Ross, Chris Alenson and Ron Sawyer. (574545)

L-R: Ron Sawyer, Chrissie Ross and Chris Alenson (Stewart Chambers: 574545) each year, including planting days, farm walks, workshops and presentations at the local hall.

Topics have included soil health and management, biodiversity, pasture production, composting, bees, sustainable agriculture and whole farm planning.

The group works with landholders to manage weeds and pests, promote sustainable land and water use, and protect local habitat and biodiversity.

Mr Alenson said one of the lessons the group had learned over the years was the importance of understanding each landholder’s individual circumstances and goals.

“It’s very much a matter of talking and listening and seeing how we can assist people,” he said.

Macclesfield’s soil presents its own challenges, according to Mr Alenson, who said the local soils are low in nutrients and biology and require an

DRLF sponsors at the program launch in Belgrave. (Supplied)

understanding of how to manage them.

The group also encourages landholders to look after the broader landscape by keeping soil covered and avoiding erosion and overgrazing.

Mr Alenson said one of the group’s biggest challenges was reaching more landholders and encouraging them to care for the local environment.

The group also aims to assist in mitigating climate change through informed and active land and animal management and works collaboratively with the community and government agencies.

It has a strong association with the Yarra Ranges Landcare Network, as well as West Gippsland Landcare and government agencies including Melbourne Water.

The group also has a long-term commitment to supporting the endangered Helmeted Honeyeater

through the Beyond Yellingbo project, which can assist landholders in accessing grants for conservation and associated works on private land.

The work has become part of the wider Macclesfield community, with some committee members also involved with the CFA. The Landcare group has also developed connections with the Macclesfield school community, Melbourne Water and other Landcare networks.

For Mr Alenson, the value of the group comes back to protecting a landscape he considers particularly special.

“We happen to be in one of the most picturesque areas of Victoria,” he said.

“To live in an environment like this is quite special.”

At the birthday gathering, there will be quizzes, presentations and a birthday cake, with more than 50 people expected to attend, including representatives from agencies the group has worked with.

“We’re here to help people,” Mr Alenson said.

“We’re here to help people manage their properties and not to impose.”

Dandenong Ranges Literary Festival committee. (Supplied)

Ranges Literary Festival launches an expanded program

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor The Dandenong Ranges Literary Festival (DRLF) officially launched its 2026 program at The Blacksmith in Belgrave on Thursday, 27 August, ahead of its return in October for an expanded three-day festival.

DRLF chair Marian Matta said the launch was an opportunity to thank those who had supported the festival and to share the program.

“The evening went very well, everybody was very enthusiastic, and it had a really good feel to it,” she said.

“We’ve already started the preliminary sessions, including self-publishing and a children’s session with George Ivanoff, with another children’s session coming up in the school holidays.”

Ms Matta said the festival’s expansion followed a strong response to its inaugural year.

“We’re able to expand the Festival to three days in just our second year is testament to the incredible support we’ve received from Hills locals, and the tremendous authors who believe in our event,” she said.

Author Jaclyn Crupi also spoke at the launching event about the festival’s theme of sense of place.

The second-year festival will feature Australian authors including Chris Hammer, Sally Hepworth, Garth Nix and Kerryn Mayne, alongside Vikki Petraitis, Kate Mildenhall, Sandra Carmel, Anne Freeman, Kylie Ladd, Ilsa Evans,

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Tiriki Onus and Marian Spires.

Mr Hammer will deliver the opening address at Cameo Cinemas on Friday, 9 October, before joining a crime fiction panel on Saturday to discuss his latest novel, Full Circle.

Ms Hepworth will appear in conversation with Ms Mayne, while Mr Nix will join the Speculative Fiction panel and later appear in conversation with Declan Fry. The program will also explore Indigenous storytelling, romance, graphic novels, crime, modern fiction and screenwriting.

Another children’s event with author and illustrator Zeno Sworder will be held during the September school holidays.

Ms Matta said the Dandenong Ranges had a long history of attracting artists and writers and was a natural home for the festival.

The festival is supported by major sponsors including, Yarra Ranges Council and Community Bank Upwey and District, along with other businesses providing financial or in-kind support.

“We are extremely grateful for all the support we’ve received from our sponsors and from the people who came last year and were clamouring to come this year,” she said.

“The response has been really remarkable, and we look at each other on the committee and wonder, ‘How on earth did we do this?’”

“I’d also like to thank to The Blacksmith Cafe in Belgrave for all their support in making the event possible.”

Dandenong Ranges Literary Festival will return in October. (Supplied)

Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL 13

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

You can manage weight Weight gain isn’t simply about eating too much or moving too little. Genetics, age, sleep, medications, menopause, medical conditions and mental health can all play a role. A personalised, medically supervised approach can help identify what’s affecting your weight and provide practical support that is tailored to your health, goals and circumstances.

At Lilydale Doctors and Mount Evelyn Doctors, our Weight Management Clinic helps you understand the factors contributing to weight gain and develop a realistic plan for sustainable progress — not a one-size-fits-all program.

GP and director Dr Binay Kumar said weight management is about more than the number on the scale.

“It’s about understanding what’s driving your weight and giving you the right support for sustainable change — including how weight and metabolic health affect your heart, so risks are identified and managed early,” he said.

Weight Management: Assessment may include a review of your medical history, medications, eating patterns, activity, sleep, mental health and previous weightloss attempts. We may also check your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, waist measurement and body composition. These checks can identify health risks associated with excess weight, including high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, abnormal cholesterol and increased cardiovascular risk.

Where appropriate, your doctor will discuss nutrition, activity, behavioural support and medical treatment options inc injectables. Ongoing reviews allow your plan to adapt as your health, circumstances and goals change — helping you stay supported and make progress over time.

Weight and Your Heart: Weight, blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar are closely linked to heart health. Carrying excess weight — particularly around the waist

Dr Anuj Bohra, Donna, Alannah, Vanessa, Nurse Kirsten, Dr Sadia Chowdhury, Kate, Dr Tina Zhong and Dr Binay Kumar. (Stewart Chambers: 574362) — can increase the risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, abnormal cholesterol and heart disease. A Heart Health Check is recommended if you have risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, excess weight or a family history of heart disease. It

doesn’t diagnose blocked arteries directly — it estimates your overall cardiovascular risk and helps guide the next step, whether that involves lifestyle changes, medication or further testing.

Having an assessment can help you understand your current risk and identify opportunities

to protect your health before problems become more serious. Our clinics offer cardiovascular risk assessment, ECGs and 24-hour blood pressure monitoring, with echocardiograms, Holter monitoring and visiting cardiologist review available where clinically indicated.

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14 MAIL | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

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HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Personalised eye care For many people, looking after their eyes is something they may not think about until a problem arises. At Belgrave Eye Care, experienced optometrists Bridie and Hannah are making comprehensive, personalised eye care more accessible to the Hills community, with a practice built around genuine relationships, quality care and understanding each patient’s individual needs.

Bridie and Hannah have cared for patients throughout the Hills community for many years while practising in nearby Monbulk. Together, they established Belgrave Eye Care to provide a wide range of eye care services locally, while continuing the close relationships they have developed with patients over the years.

As an independent practice, Belgrave Eye Care takes the time to understand each person’s needs rather than taking a one size fits all approach. From routine examinations and prescription updates through to specialised contact lenses and emergency eye care, the team is committed to helping patients maintain healthy eyes and clear vision throughout life.

Comprehensive eye examinations can assess not only vision but also the health of the eyes, including screening for conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration, as well as changes associated with diabetes and high blood pressure. Diabetic eye examinations, dry eye diagnosis and management, visual field testing and VicRoads vision assessments are also available.

Children’s eye examinations are another important part of the practice. An eye examination before starting school is recommended for all children to check for binocular vision conditions that can affect how the eyes work together and potentially impact learning. Belgrave Eye Care also provides contact lenses for children and adults, including specialised options such as Orthokeratology, or Ortho K, which can be used as part of myopia management.

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Hannah and Bridie of Belgrave Eye Care. (Stewart Chambers: 573981) The practice also offers emergency eye care, providing assessment and treatment for issues such as eye infections, foreign bodies and new flashes or floaters in your vision. Medications can be prescribed where appropriate, helping patients access timely care when an unexpected eye concern arises.

ED

Providing honest & caring services to the community.

When it comes to glasses, patients can choose from a wide range of spectacle frames and sunglasses to suit the wonderfully diverse Hills community. Whether you are looking for fashion forward frames, budget friendly options, durable work friendly styles, children’s frames, infant glasses or safety glasses, there are choices to suit different needs and lifestyles. Private health insurance payments are accepted.

Belgrave Eye Care also provides consultations and spectacles for Department of Veterans’ Affairs patients, ensuring a broad range of

patients can access personalised local eye care.

For Bridie and Hannah, however, it is about more than providing services. They are passionate about creating a practice where patients feel welcome, comfortable and genuinely cared for. Their goal is to build long term relationships with local families and provide personalised eye care that supports the Hills community in maintaining healthy eyes and vision for life. Belgrave Eye Care combines experience, comprehensive services and a genuinely personal approach, making it a welcoming local destination for all your eye care needs.

1 Hoddle St, Yarra Junction Phone 5967 2202 Monday-Friday 8:30am-5:00pm

Find eye care close to home in the Hills at Belgrave Eye Care. (Stewart Chambers: 573981)

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We provide the Child dental benefit scheme (CDBS)

Dr Hannah Skehan & Dr Bridie Homfray Your local Hills optometrists, from Monbulk to Belgrave

1 Bayview Road Belgrave www.belgraveeyecare.com.au 9801 3455 12893935-CV36-26

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Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL 15

I choose a day at Keyton

See why it’s greener on our side.

Join our free events and hear the latest expert insights to help you retire with confidence.

Unlocking the Blueprint to an Epic Retirement Forest Hills Live In-Person Webinar | 17 September | 11am-12pm 264-272 Springvale Rd, Nunawading

High Tea at Waverley Country Club Waverley Country Club 6 October | 11am-1pm 60 Bergins Rd, Rowville

Scan to discover our upcoming events and reserve your place.

18098 08/26

keyton.com.au | 1800 550 550

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16 MAIL | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

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SENIOR LIVING

OK, so why Waverley?

Deciding to leave the family home is never easy, especially when it holds a lifetime of memories.

For Peter and his wife Jan, downsizing wasn’t about letting go. It was about planning ahead and choosing the retirement lifestyle they wanted.

“Jan and I had a substantial four-bedroom house that was simply too big,” Peter said.

“I said: ‘Let’s investigate downsizing and moving into a retirement village,’ and she agreed.”

Over the following year, they decluttered, prepared their home for sale and began exploring retirement communities.

None felt quite right until they visited Waverley Country Club.

“Compared to other villages, Waverley stood out immediately. The units were in great condition, with all the modern conveniences and no maintenance headaches,” Peter said.

The village’s gym, cafe, walking tracks and welcoming community offered the active, connected lifestyle they were looking for.

Settling in was effortless, and their social life quickly expanded through travel, outings and friendships with neighbours, while still enjoying the privacy of their own home.

Today, living costs are lower, maintenance is no longer a concern and the secure environment provides valuable peace of mind.

“Looking back, my only regret is not doing it 10 years earlier,” Peter said.

If you’re considering your own next chapter, join Keyton’s free events featured in this publication, including a live in-person webinar and October’s High Tea at Waverley Country Club.

Discover practical advice, hear real experiences and explore the lifestyle possibilities retirement living can offer.

Come see if life at the Waverley Country Club is for you. (File)

A better retirement lifestyle 9735 5944

Be part of a vibrant Community and enjoy the Facilities 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

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Close to all amenities - health professionals, Supermarkets, public transport Village volunteers can assists you around the house

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Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL 17

SENIOR LIVING

Come see what it’s like to be a Hamlet homeowner. (Supplied)

It is time to live a little Life’s been a struggle lately. Hamlet Lilydale was envisioned for exactly this moment.

There’s no easy way to say it: life is harder now than it’s been for a long time. The cost of everything keeps climbing, and even those who’ve spent a lifetime being careful with money are feeling the squeeze. On top of that, there’s the house; the one you raised your family in, or grew your business from, the one that’s somehow becoming more work every year. The gutters. The paint. The garden. The rooms nobody’s slept in since the kids left home. Even your favourite neighbours have moved on.

You don’t need reminding that things have changed. You’re the one living it. But here’s what hasn’t changed: you, deserving of a richer, simpler, more connected life. One where your home and neighbourhood work for you, instead of the other way around.

Downsizing isn’t about giving something up, it’s about putting it down – the maintenance, the mowing, but most of all the financial the worry. It’s about creating breathing room.

Downsizing starts with a healthier bank balance - freeing up the equity sitting quietly in your family home and easing the cost-of-living squeeze. Call it peace of mind, the kind that changes how the next years feel: more traveling, more of the hobbies you love, more doting on the grandkids, more time for yourself.

Hamlet Lilydale has the ‘more’ to offer. It’s the life you love, minus the parts that weigh you down.

Every Hamlet home is beautifully designed and built to work hard for you. Open-plan living fills every home with northern light. Modern facades, new appliances, beautiful finishes, nothing left to fix. Double glazing and full insulation shut out the drafts and keep the energy bills down. A home that’s warm when it should be, cool when you want it to be, and easy the rest of the time.

Greenery is part of the trade – because you’re not giving it up, you’re gaining it. Hamlet Lily18 MAIL | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

Live the Hamlet life. (Supplied) dale is a community shaped around nature - a creekside reserve (the size of the MCG no less), landscaped gardens and walking paths. With Bellbird Park and Lillydale Lake right outside your door. All the beauty, none of the mowing.

What surprises people most, though, is the company. Hamlet Lilydale is a boutique community of just 50 homes - you’re not just buying a house, you’re joining a neighbourhood of like-minded people to share a coffee, a laugh, a Friday night with, if you so choose. Lock up and

leave, worry-free, with the safety and security of a gated community, and friends next door instead of strangers.

At its heart, the Olinda Lodge clubhouse; your gym membership and social club all rolled into one. A spa and sauna to sink into after a walk by the lake. A cardio room for the days you feel like keeping moving. Or maybe it’s simply the kitchen bar and lounge, with the wood log fire crackling on a cold Lilydale evening - somewhere to linger over a glass of wine with friends,

or curl up with a book, just because you can.

So take a breath. You’ve spent decades looking after everyone else, and a home that looked after them too. Now it’s your turn - to feel safe, to feel light, to feel like yourself again.

A life lived in full, not in haste. Hamlet Lilydale.

If you’re interested to find out more, visit hamletliving.com.au, or give Marion (sales lead) a call on 0482 672 325, she’s great to chat to.

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Hamlet Lilydale, Shaped by Nature A boutique over 50s community where greenery abounds. Limited selection of homes now selling from $845,000.

At Hamlet Lilydale, just 50 homes nestle within a community where greenery takes centre stage; over 65% of the site is dedicated open space; creekside reserve, landscaped gardens and walking paths weave through the neighbourhood.

Bellbird Park and Lillydale Lake right on the doorstep, place nature and wellbeing at the heart of daily life.

Ready to have a conversation?

Visit hamletliving.com.au or call 0482 672 325.

12882298-CV36-26

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Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL 19

NEWS

Adam Wallace author and cartoonist.

The kids try the drawing challenge of opposite hand and closed eyes.

Kids show Adam Wallace author and cartoonist their drawings.

Adam Wallace author and cartoonist with Makayla and Mya. (Credits Stewart Chambers)

Creative chaos in Emerald Children’s Book Week came alive at Emerald Library as New York Times bestselling author Adam Wallace delivered an hour of creative chaos.

Children learned techniques for developing imaginative stories before putting their creativity to work through cartooning, games

and other activities.

The event gave young participants an opportunity to explore storytelling, develop their artistic skills and celebrate their love of books in a fun and interactive setting.

Sadie with Adam Wallace.

Reegan proudly shows his mum his drawing of a piranha.

Mya, Sadie and Makayla with Adam Wallace books.

20 MAIL | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

Reegan show Adam Wallace author and cartoonist his drawing of a piranha .

Beau and Adam Wallace swap each others drawings.

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NEWS

Horror movie showcases the Dandenongs and Yarra Valley Iconic locations across the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges will be showcased in the upcoming horror film, Skeletons.

Skeletons, starring Academy Award winner Brie Larson, follows a young boy who begins to discover that his parents are hiding a disturbing secret about his mother’s true nature.

The feature film from producer J.J. Abrams and director JT Mollner is in the final stages of production at the former studio of Neighbours in Nunawading.

Skeletons joins a slew of recent Yarra Valley film and TV projects, including psychological drama The Dispatcher, starring Gotham Award-winning actor Patrick Brammall, and the original horror-comedy Stan series Gnomes.

The Dispatcher was filmed at locations in Warburton, Mount Dandenong and Hoddles Creek. Meanwhile, a scene in Gnomes was filmed at Brisbane Bridge, Brett Road and Dammans Road in Warburton.

Minister for Creative Industries Vicki Ward said Victoria had it all for major international screen productions.

“Skeletons is proof that when Hollywood comes knocking, Victoria delivers – worldclass crews, stunning locations and studios ready for the world’s biggest stories,” Ms Ward said.

The project engaged around 300 local businesses, including accommodation providers, caterers, transport operators, medical facilities and specialist screen businesses.

The film has created around 635 jobs and injected more than $21.5 million into Victoria’s economy.

It also featured locations in the Mornington Peninsula and Werribee.

Post-production and visual effects work will take place in Victoria, with the project establishing the Chroma Film Lab, a new film development laboratory in Brunswick East.

Victorians Paul Currie and Mario Biancacci (Ricky Stanicky, Better Man, I Play Rocky) are

Skeletons is an upcoming horror film. (Unsplash/Samantha Borges) also producers on the film.

The film’s international cast includes Kyle Gallner, Daithí Ó hAragáin, John Goodman, Keith Carradine, Ione Skye and Willa

Fitzgerald.

VicScreen chief executive officer Caroline Pitcher said Victoria was a “global screen powerhouse”.

Director JT Mollner said the local crew in Victoria “exceeded every expectation”.

“Our approach is ambitious, bold and visually distinctive.”

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Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL 21

NEWS

Daisy, Crystal and Hope enjoying the Forensic detective workshop with 25 other kids at Emerald Library. (Stewart Chambers: 571464)

Budding detectives on case Budding detectives were on the case earlier this month as they learnt the techniques and skills to uncover suspicious behaviour.

With the tools to collect evidence and the skills to decipher its meaning, around 25 young detectives joined in the forensic workshop at Emerald Library on 13 August.

Led by Alexander Walker, the kids got to work, looking into footprints and getting into some simple chemistry.

Great fun was had by all.

Lewis adds water looking for clues. (571464)

Ollie at the shoe-tread footprints. (571464)

Lilian and Hamish. (571464) 22 MAIL | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

Rory and Lylah with forensic detective workshop presenter Alexander Walker. (571464)

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OPINION

Facing the wrath of nature

By Maria Millers

gered by a glacier breakaway, unleashing enormous, quantities of water, ice rock, mud and debris obliterating towns, villages, farms, schools bridges and other infrastructure. It will be a long time before the scale of the human loss can be counted.

And then there is the economic cost. A disaster that destroys trails, bridges, roads and accommodation doesn’t just destroy physical infrastructure.

It can wipe out the community’s primary income source for months or years.

This area in the foothills of the Himalayas has increasingly become a magnet for the intrepid, adventurous and the foolhardy.

But also for pilgrims. The disaster struck at a period when the Himalayas were unusually busy with two different pilgrimages. Many were older or middle-aged people undertaking a once-in-a-lifetime journey from places as far afield as the US, Canada, Australia and elsewhere, but also devout locals.

This is one of the most dramatic disasters of the current year—and perhaps the one that best illustrates the raw power of nature. But there is also broad agreement that climate change was the catalysing force.

Nepal’s glaciers are said to have lost 1/3 of their volume over the last 30 years, as seen by the extreme events like heavy rainfall, flooding and landslides becoming more common. In 2023, UN Chief Antonio Gutteres warned: “The rooftops of the world are caving in”.

To many it may seem that this year has had more natural disasters than in previous years, as images of storms, floods, wildfires and earthquakes are

The aftermath of flash flooding in Nepal. (AAP) streamed from across the world into our homes. But the scientific picture is more nuanced. Not necessarily more disasters overall, even though it may appear so, but it’s because the number of recorded disasters has risen enormously over the past century, and also because we now detect and report smaller events much more consistently.

However, that doesn’t mean the underlying risk isn’t increasing. There is very strong scientific evidence that human-caused warming is making certain types of extreme events more likely and/or more severe.

And disasters are increasingly hitting the heavily populated, highly developed world.

There are simply more people, buildings, roads, power infrastructure and wealth in vulnerable locations than there were decades ago.

Consequently, a weather event that might once have caused relatively little damage can now become a catastrophe.

Also the fact that multiple events can happen simultaneously and be in our news feeds within hours amplifies their impact.

The psychological impact of this is to make the world appear more dangerous and disaster-prone than it did, say, 30 years ago.

Many have noticed that there have been major

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“We admire nature when it is beautiful, photograph it when it is picturesque, and seek refuge in it when we need peace. But flood, fire, earthquake and storm remind us that beneath its beauty lies a power that cannot be negotiated with.”

Spring arrives this week and with it the smells, sounds and sights that lift the way we feel after a long winter. We are filled with new energy and the idea of fresh beginnings.

The days are getting longer and warmer, the air carries the scent of wattle, blossoms and daffodils and those deciduous dormant trees as Robert Frost reminds are getting ready to unfurl their green gold leaves of spring: Nature’s first green is gold, Her hardest hue to hold.

Her early leaf’s a flower; But only so an hour.

But this gentle and benign image of nature was shattered last Wednesday by the catastrophic floods on the Nepal-Tibet border, reminding us of the raw power of nature. This catastrophic event appeared to be almost of biblical or apocalyptic proportions and has reminded us, with terrible force, of something modern civilisation often prefers to forget: nature is not always our friend.

There is the danger of imagining the natural world purely as landscape to photograph, admire but also to subdue, conquer, exploit. And only when events like the present disaster occur do we remember that we are living inside nature and not standing outside it.

For Poet Alfred Lord Tennyson the question was how to reconcile a world that contains extraordinary beauty and apparent purpose with a natural world that is violent, destructive and completely indifferent to individual suffering.

In Memoriam A.H.H. by Alfred Lord Tennyson: Who trusted God was love indeed And love Creation’s final law— Tho’ Nature, red in tooth and claw With ravine, shriek’d against his creed— The Nepal disaster appears to have been trig-

earthquakes over the last year. Earthquakes occur because of tectonic stresses in the Earth’s crust, not because the atmosphere is warming.

Likewise, there’s no convincing evidence that we’re experiencing some global climate-driven increase in volcanic eruptions.

Nevertheless, there has been an increase in volcanic activity in the Pacific Rim nations.

Only a couple of weeks ago, a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck the Flores region of East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. I t barely received any coverage despite being so close to Australia, resulting in 100 deaths and 180,000 evacuated.

Poems about storms, floods or earthquakes remind us that sometimes the landscape moves, the river rises, overflows its banks and floods. Winds cause destruction and damage, ignite fires that destroy all in its path, and it is only then we suddenly remember we are living inside nature, not standing outside it. And that our actions matter too Many poets through the ages have written of the insignificance of humanity in the face of nature’s power.

From Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, who with his crew was facing a ferocious storm that leaves them stranded and those famous lines: Water, water, everywhere, Nor any drop to drink.

Or Ted Hughes writing about a wind so ferocious that it seems capable of destroying not only the speaker’s house but the landscape itself and shows that no matter how advanced or inventive we human beings are, we’re still at the mercy of nature’s unpredictable and merciless whims.

This house has been far out at sea all night, The woods crashing through darkness, the booming hills, Winds stampeding the fields under the window Floundering black astride and blinding wet Till day rose; then under an orange sky The hills had new places, and wind wielded Blade-light, luminous black and emerald, Flexing like the lens of a mad eye.

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Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL 23

OPINION

Vital health upgrades It has been wonderful to see so many positive developments recently, with significant State Government investments in health, education and emergency services that will benefit our community across the hills and foothills for years to come.

One of the most exciting milestones has been the opening of the new four-storey expansion at the Angliss Hospital.

This $112 million investment delivers four new operating theatres, a 32-bed inpatient unit, expanded outpatient facilities and additional car parking, helping more people access world-class healthcare closer to home.

The upgraded facilities will support treatment for an additional 1,300 patients each year and provide our hardworking healthcare professionals with the modern spaces they deserve.

I was delighted to join Hon. Harriet Shing at EACH in Ferntree Gully the other month to announce the expansion of the Care Pathways for Chronic Disease program. This $20 million investment will support more Victorians living with conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, asthma and chronic respiratory illness to access co-ordinated care closer to home.

Delivered locally through EACH, the program helps people better manage their health with support from specialist nurses, health coaches and allied health professionals, reducing the need for hospital visits and improving quality of life.

For anyone needing urgent medical advice,

State of

Affairs Daniela De Martino I encourage residents to consider the Virtual Emergency Department via its new website: ved. vic.gov.au.

This free service connects Victorians with qualified emergency doctors and nurses based in a Victorian hospital via video call, providing expert advice without always needing a trip to the emergency department. It is available 24/7. Of course, in a life-threatening emergency, people should always call 000.

Education remains a key priority for myself and our Government, and I am incredibly proud that Sherbrooke Community School will receive $9.719 million to upgrade and modernise its facilities.

This funding will help create high-quality learning environments that support students, teachers and staff to thrive.

Investing in our local schools is investing in our future, and it is fantastic to see this support flowing directly into our community.

L-R: Member for Bayswater Jackson Taylor, Member for Monbulk Daniela De Martino, and Labor Candidate for Bayswater Julie Buxton, in front of the new building at the Angliss Hospital.

(Supplied) There was also welcome news for teachers, principals and education support staff with members of the Australian Education Union voting to endorse the Victorian Government’s latest education agreement.

Victorian teachers and staff do an incredible job every day, and this agreement recognises the essential role they play in helping our students achieve some of the strongest educational outcomes in the country.

Our emergency service volunteers are also set to benefit from important investment.

Construction is moving ahead on a brandnew CFA station for The Basin, providing Brigade

I Want Your Sex review: You don’t want this

CARTOON

I Want Your Sex Starring Cooper Hoffman and Olivia Wilde MA15+ 3.25/5

Literary Festival is launched PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN The 2026 Dandenong Ranges Literary Festival will take place in Belgrave from Friday 9 to Sunday 11 October.

The festival program was recently launched at The Blacksmith in Belgrave’s main street, and attended by dozens of enthusiastic sponsors, supporters and friends.

One of the festival’s major sponsors is the Yarra Ranges Council through its Annual Community Grants Scheme.

In her speech, Community Connections officer Janette Scott highlighted the council’s continuous support for groups and organisations to deliver activities that enhance local culture and celebrate community spirit.

Another major sponsor is the Community Bank

24 MAIL | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

members with modern facilities, additional storage and improved operational capacity.

The Basin CFA has served the community for almost a century, supporting Victorians through emergencies both locally and across the state.

This new station will help ensure volunteers have the facilities they need to continue their remarkable work keeping our community safe.

Over recent months I have had the privilege of spending time with many of our volunteers, community groups and sporting clubs that make our region such a special place.

Whether attending CFA award presentations, visiting local sporting clubs, celebrating milestones with community organisations, supporting arts events, volunteering at local food relief organisations or joining township clean-up activities, I am constantly reminded that our Hills communities are powered by people who generously give their time to help others. Their dedication strengthens community connections and enriches local life in countless ways.

To every volunteer, committee member, coach, fundraiser and community advocate, thank you for everything you do. Your generosity, dedication and community spirit help make the Hills the special place we are proud to call home.

As always, if you see me out and about in the community, please stop and say hello. Hearing directly from local residents remains the most important part of my role and helps me advocate for what our community needs to thrive.

Upwey & District. Director Thomas Kern expressed his best wishes for the festival’s success while emphasising the Community Bank’s earnest efforts to give back to the community by backing local services, programs, projects and cultural and sports events.

Guest speaker Jaclyn Crupi shared her love for reading and how Melina Marchetta’s 1992 novel Looking for Alibrandi (1992) has influenced her life as an author, editor and bookseller.

She is an ambassador for the 2026 Warm Winter Read campaign, and her own books, such as Planting for Native Bees, Birds and Butterflies (2025) and Garden Like a Nonno (2021), are all about finding and cultivating a place of your own.

In her speech, Crupi explained the importance of “place” in shaping characters and plots in writing. She has witnessed how the right book in the right hands at the right time can change lives. This year’s festival keynote will be delivered by Chris Hammer, the leading crime fiction novelist and author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands (2018), Silver (2019), Trust (2020) and Legacy (2025). Through the recent ABC TV adaptation of Treasure and Dirt (2021), the first book in Hammer’s Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan series, readers can get a sense of the author’s renowned achievement in creating atmospheric Australian settings, colourful characters, intricate plots, descriptive language, and emotional depth.

In I Want Your Sex, the latest erotic thriller from veteran American queer filmmaker Gregg Araki, Elliot (Cooper Hoffman), a schlubby outof-work college graduate, is roped into being the submissive sexual partner of his dominatrix artist boss Erika (Olivia Wilde).

On a craftmanship level, I Want Your Sex is solid, with witty dialogue, steady pacing, striking camerawork and an amusing caricature

of pretentious art culture, and Hoffman once again proves himself a great up-and-coming actor. However, this will be a miserable watch if you aren’t interested in an unlikeable wet blanket being exploited by a sexy sociopath.

Between The Invite and I Want Your Sex, 2026 seems to be the year of Wilde getting paid to be a jerk on-screen.

I Want Your Sex draws suspense from stepping out of your comfort zone, transgressive thrills and fraught relationship dynamics, but several scenes trivialise consent, and later Elliot and Erika’s messed-up relationship veers into a contrived conspiracy. While I Want Your Sex acknowledges Elliot’s violated boundaries to some degree, it ultimately comes down on Erika’s girl-boss side. Sex-positive media isn’t positive when it plays loose with consent, lets the abuser off the hook and treats the whole traumatising ordeal as a character-building net good.

Araki apparently made I Want Your Sex to confront the perceived prudishness of Gen Z, but an annoying, unsexy erotic thriller with a shaky take on consent and accountability isn’t the way to do it.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

Suspense and satire Kemp’s curtain call The 1812 Theatre Switzerland – Joanna Murray-Smith It’s 1995 in the Swiss Alps and the ailing reclusive crime writer Patricia Highsmith is visited by a genial young man from her New York publisher, sent to convince her to write the final instalment of her best-selling Mr Ripley series.

What first appears to be a standard catand-mouse game of wit and wiles soon becomes a dance to the death.

Who is the cat and who is the mouse? And who will make it out of Switzerland alive?

A chilling and sometimes hilarious twohander, with Murray-Smith’s signature lucidlettered prose.

Season: 1 - 24 October. Venue: The Bakery at The 1812 Theatre.

Karralyka Theatre The End of the World (A feel-good comedy) – Friendljordies.

At long last I’m unveiling my meticulously researched, scientifically flawless, and definitely not panic-panic-induced prediction on how the world will end.

If you disagree, congratulations – you’re part of the problem. Enjoy your echo chamber while the rest of us prepare for the grand finale. Join me as I bring down the political incompetence, corporate buffoonery, and gardenvariety stupidity that will bring civilisation to a face-planting halt. It’s satire, it’s prophecy, and it’s disturbingly plausible.

Season: Wednesday, 6 September at 7.30pm.

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COUNTRY CHARM, MODERN COMFORT AND SPACE mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 25

PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

COUNTRY CHARM, MODERN COMFORT AND SPACE TO ENJOY ON 4,000M2 ESCAPE the hustle and bustle of modern life and discover the peaceful country retreat you’ve been dreaming of. Set on just shy of an acre of lush, beautifully maintained grounds, this charming property offers a wonderful blend of rural tranquillity, space and modern comfort.

From the moment you step inside, you’ll be welcomed by soaring ceilings, stunning solid timber floors and a soft, neutral colour palette that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The home effortlessly combines timeless country charm with contemporary style.

At the heart of the home is the impressive kitchen, featuring beautiful cabinetry, a classic porcelain sink, generous storage and a seamless outlook across the dining area.

Whether preparing family meals or enjoying your morning coffee, this is a space designed for both everyday living and entertaining. With three generous living areas, there is plenty of room for everyone to relax, entertain and enjoy time together.

Accommodation is plentiful, with four spacious bedrooms providing a peaceful retreat for the whole family. The oversized master suite is a true highlight, complete with a stylish ensuite. For those working from home, the dedicated home office enjoys a lovely outlook.

Outside, the property continues to impress with a generously sized American-style barn, offering space for cars, tools, toys and equipment. There is also excellent off street parking for the caravan, boat, trailer or all of the above!

Offering the perfect balance of rural serenity, space and modern convenience, this idyllic property is a rare opportunity to embrace a more relaxed way of life.

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 16 Quinn Road, GEMBROOK Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 garage Price: $1,350,000 - $1,450,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Justin Barrot 0438 683 781, BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

26 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

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PROPERTY NEWS

BENDIGO BANK GIVES GIFTS TO 17 FIRE BRIGADES $170,000 will be shared by 17 fire brigades within the local region thanks to a generous donation by the Dandenong Ranges Community Bank Group to help with the purchase of new equipment and training. $10,000 has been allocated to each of the 17 brigades within the catchment of the Bendigo Community Bank Upwey & District and Community Bank Emerald & District, and the two brigades in the Marysville area where the company has had a long connection.

“This donation is in appreciation of what they do for our communities,” said Deb Weber, Dandenong Ranges Community Bank Group Chair. “Brigades are made up of volunteers, and their commitment to training and callouts is extraordinary. Giving brigades these extra funds will help reduce some of the pressure on volunteers having to raise funds to help support their operations and activities,” Ms Weber said.

As a Community Bank, we are committed to returning profits directly back into local community projects. Since 1998, the Dandenong Ranges Community Bank Group has provided over $7.75 million of financial support to hundreds of local community groups within the Dandenong Ranges.

The groups receiving these donations for 2026 are: • Belgrave Heights & South Rural Fire Brigade • Selby Rural Fire Brigade • Emerald Rural Fire Brigade • Macclesfield Fire Brigade • Kalorama/Mt.Dandenong Rural Fire Brigade • Narre Warren East Rural Fire Brigade • Upwey Urban Fire Brigade • Narbethong Rural Fire Brigade • Narre Warren North Fire Brigade • Belgrave Urban Fire Brigade • Clematis Fire Brigade • Cockatoo Fire Brigade • Menzies Creek Rural Fire Brigade • Olinda Rural Fire Brigade

Bendigo Bank gives gifts to 17 Fire Brigades.

• Sassafras-Ferny Creek Rural Fire Brigade • Gembrook Rural Fire Brigade • Marysville Rural Fire Brigade Some of the feedback from brigades: Peter Cope, President of the Olinda Rural Fire Brigade,“This will go a long way towards the purchase of new equipment to help keep our community safe and to ensure the safety of our volunteer firefighters whilst on the job.”

Sharon Merritt, Captain of Macclesfield Brigade, “That is amazing. Very unexpected, but we are very grateful. There is much-needed training equipment we have been saving up for in our Large Animal Rescue component for our brigade that the amazing amount of money will help buy. Only 2 brigades in Victoria are training in LAR, and this equipment will help aid us in training other brigades.”

Matthew Spears, Captain of Narre Warren East Fire Brigade, “… we would like to thank Community Bank Upwey & District once again for your outstanding support over many years.

Your donation this year will make a significant contribution to the success and ongoing viability of our small rural fire brigade and will help improve amenities for our volunteers.”

Klaus Brodeck, Captain of Emerald Fire Brigade, “Hugely appreciative! Brigade working on some large projects currently and this money will be a considerable amount towards those projects.”

Dannilee Schulz, Secretary of Narbethong Rural Fire Brigade: “Thank you once again to you and your wonderful team for your incredible support and generous donation. To put the significance of your contribution into

perspective, it would take the Narbethong Fire Brigade many years to fundraise an amount of this size. Your support has truly accelerated our ability to complete essential projects.

This donation will be put to very good use.

We have several major compliance-related items required under the CFA Act — including sealing the tanker bay floor — that we will now be able to complete much sooner than expected thanks to the Community Bank’s support.

It’s fantastic to see how this support will help provide better facilities for volunteers and assist the brigade with future needs.

All groups have been or will be featured on our Socials, so follow us on Facebook or Instagram / communitybankdandenongranges. ●

12896913-JV36-26

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Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 27

HOME FOCUS

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

From the moment you step inside, you’ll be impressed by the generous proportions and thoughtfully designed floorplan. At the heart of the home is a stunning family kitchen featuring a large island bench, gas cooktop, twin wall ovens, walk-in pantry, dishwasher and an abundance of storage. Overlooking the spacious dining and living area, complete with a cosy gas log fireplace, this is a space designed to bring family and friends together.

Large sliding doors extend the living outdoors to an expansive entertaining deck, creating the perfect setting for year-round gatherings while overlooking the beautiful backyard.

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

Accommodation is equally impressive, with a spacious main bedroom featuring a walkin robe and private ensuite. Four additional bedrooms provide exceptional flexibility, including a guest bedroom with its own ensuite, ideal for extended family or visitors.

A dedicated study completes the floorplan, offering the perfect work-from-home solution.

Quality finishes throughout include beautiful timber flooring, plush carpets, ducted heating and refrigerated cooling, excellent storage and an abundance of natural light.

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

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

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

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 7 Gembrook Launching Place Road, GEMBROOK Description: 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,300,000 - $1,350,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Justin Barrot 0438 683 781, BARRY PLANT EMERALD, 5968 4522

28 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

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181 RAINY HILL ROAD COCKATOO

3 Grandview avenue EMERALD

7 Gembrook LaunchinG PL rd GEMBROOK

BUILD THE LIFE YOU’VE BEEN DREAMING OF

SPECTACULAR VIEWS & FLEXIBLE LIVING

GRAND FAMILY LIVING

5A

5A

8505m2 $530,000-$580,000 OFI

By Appointment

JACQUI RYDER 0433 095 278 BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

3B

FOR SALE $1,150,000 - $1,250,000 OFI By appointment

MIKE ROSARIO 0400 972 032 BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

3B

2D

FOR SALE $1,300,000 - $1,350,000 OFI by appointment

JUSTIN BARROT 0438 683 781 BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

45 Mt Pleasant Road Monbulk

1 Osier Place COCKATOO

3A GEMBROOK ROAD GEMBROOK

RARE lAnD oPPoRTunITY!

FAMILY SPACE & LIFESTYLE ON 2,996M²

CHARACTER, COMMUNITY & CONVENIENCE

D

3A

2D

3A

JUSTIN BARROT 0438 683 781

FOR SALE $690,000-$759,000 OFI

By Appointment

1859m2 (approx)

FoR SAlE $600,000 - $650,000 oFI By appointment

JuSTIn bARRoT 0438 683 781 bARRY PlAnT EMERAlD 5968 4522

2B

1C

FOR SALE $1,050,000 - $1,070,000 OFI

By Appointment

BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

1B

2D JACQUI RYDER 0433 095 278 BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

16 QUINN ROAD GEMBROOK

80 BEDFORD ROAD COCKATOO

289 & 291-295 Belgrave gemBrook rd

COUNTRY CHARM, MODERN COMFORT

PEACEFUL COUNTRY LIVING

COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITY IN EMERALD

4A

3D

3A

JUSTIN BARROT 0438 683 781

FOR SALE $950,000-$1,045,000 OFI

By Appointment

2B

1C

FOR SALE $1,350,000 - $1,450,000 OFI

By Appointment

mailcommunity.com.au

BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

1B

1D

1559m2 JUSTIN BARROT 0438 683 781 BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

FOR SALE CoNTaCT ageNT OFI By appointment

JUSTIN BARROT 0438 683 781 BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 29

HOME FOCUS

THE COMPLETE ACREAGE LIFESTYLE – TWO HOMES ON 11 ACRES SET across approximately 11 acres, this impressive lifestyle property delivers an exceptional combination of space, privacy and versatility, with two separate residences, extensive shedding, seven fenced paddocks and superb outdoor entertaining. Perfectly suited to multi-generational families, those seeking guest accommodation or buyers looking for additional income potential, this is a property designed to adapt to every stage of life.

The substantial main residence is introduced by an undercover entry, opening into a spacious kitchen and dining zone finished with tiled flooring. The beautifully appointed kitchen features a gas cooktop, dishwasher, generous storage and expansive bench space incorporating a breakfast bar.

A skylight fills the adjoining dining area with natural light, while a split system ensures yearround comfort.

Two bedrooms are positioned at the front of the home, including one with built-in robes and another with a walk-in robe and private ensuite. At the opposite end, the generous lounge creates an inviting retreat with laminate timber flooring, a new woodfire, split system and an abundance of windows framing the surrounding landscape. A third bedroom with built-in robes and its own ensuite, along with the laundry and separate toilet, complete the ground floor.

Upstairs provides further privacy with two beautifully proportioned bedrooms, each featuring plantation shutters, its own walk-in robe, ensuite and split system. The impressive master suite offers a peaceful escape, while the additional ensuite bedroom is ideal for older children, extended family or guests.

Wrapping around three sides of the residence, the undercover verandah provides multiple places to relax and entertain while creating a seamless connection to the outdoors. From here, the home opens to the solar-heated chlorine swimming pool, setting the scene for long summer afternoons, family gatherings and entertaining on a grand scale.

Adding enormous appeal is the second residence, completely separate from the main home and offering outstanding flexibility for extended family, independent living, guests or potential rental accommodation. An undercover entry leads into the lounge, while the adjoining kitchen includes an electric cooktop, wall oven and excellent storage. The dining area opens directly onto an undercover entertaining area, extending the living space outdoors. Two bedrooms, both with builtin robes, are serviced by a central family bathroom.

Beyond the residences, the property continues to impress with infrastructure perfectly suited to a rural lifestyle. A substantial 11m x 13m barn with 15amp power provides exceptional space for machinery, vehicles, a workshop or storage, complemented by a double garage and double carport. A generator plug provides additional peace of mind and practical backup power capability, while a separate studio adds yet

another versatile space for a home office or creative studio.

With seven fenced paddocks spread across approximately 11 acres, double stables/ shelter, giving excellent scope for horses, livestock or hobby farming, while still providing plenty of room to simply enjoy the peace and freedom of acreage living.

Offering two homes, five ensuite bedrooms within the main residence, a swimming pool, substantial shedding, studio, generator plug and extensive paddock infrastructure, this remarkable property presents a rare opportunity to secure a truly versatile lifestyle property where family, entertaining and country living come together beautifully.

This property has it all so don’t miss out call to arrange a private inspection today.

• Please note: All property details shown are correct at time of publishing. Some properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 390 Gembrook-Launching Place Road, LAUNCHING PLACE Description: 7 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 10 garage Price: $1,600,000 - $1,720,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Brennan Mileto 0422 996 451 or Aaron Day 0407 365 994, BELL REAL ESTATE, EMERALD mailcommunity.com.au 30 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

P 5968 6222 311-313 Main Street Emerald

250 Phillip Road Cockatoo

$1,950,000 -$2,100,000

An Alistair Knox Design - A Legacy Estate of Architectural Significance, Income Potential and Endless Possibilities!

A rare 25-acre lifestyle property combining architectural character, breathtaking Warburton Ranges views & income potential. Inspired by Alistair Knox design, the 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence showcases stonework, timber features & natural light, complemented by slab heating, a woodfire & double-sided open fireplace. Fully fenced & ready for farming, fertile volcanic red soils are ideal for an orchard, vineyard or hobby farm, supported by approximately 100,000 litres of tank storage & additional Cockatoo Creek water entitlements. “The Cottage” offers an established B&B income stream or multi-generational living, featuring a bluestone fireplace, wraparound verandah, cathedral ceilings & stained glass. A 22m x 14m shed, full-sized tennis court & established gardens.

Samantha Scott M 0438 680 032

3 Old Gembrook Road Cockatoo

A

3

Set across approximately 37 acres of predominantly cleared land, this exceptional property offers two separate homes, outstanding infrastructure & endless lifestyle possibilities. Perfect for multigenerational living, guest accommodation or additional income. The main residence features 12ft ceilings, timber floors, three bedrooms, two bathrooms & an inviting lounge with woodfire. A countrystyle kitchen & beautifully appointed bathroom with clawfoot bath & underfloor heating. Privately positioned, the freshly painted second home offers open-plan living, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, split systems & a welcoming front verandah overlooking the rural surrounds. Completing the property are six fenced paddocks, two dams, an ornamental vineyard, chook house, double garage with workshop & games room, 4.5kW solar system & approximately 95,000 litres of water storage.

Brennan Mileto M 0422 996 451

B 10 C

$700,000 -$770,000

Spacious Family Living in a Walk-to-Town Location.

Set on 1,017sqm in a convenient Cockatoo location, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers comfortable family living within walking distance of the township, schools & public transport. An undercover verandah welcomes you inside, with the master bedroom featuring a walk-in robe & ensuite. The lounge showcases vaulted timber ceilings, new carpet, split system & access to the deck, while gas ducted heating provides year-round comfort. Timber floors flow through the kitchen & dining area, with the kitchen offering an electric cooktop, wall oven, dishwasher, breakfast bar & generous bench space. The dining area opens to an undercover entertaining area overlooking the backyard. 2 further bedrooms with built-in robes are serviced by the family bathroom, separate toilet & vanity area. Outside, a spacious backyard, double carport & garden shed.

Brennan Mileto M 0422 996 451

$1,400,000 - $1,520,000

37 Acres of Opportunity with Two Fully Self-Contained Homes.

Aaron Day M 0407 365 994

5

Aaron Day M 0407 365 994

380 Jameson Road Hoddles Creek

5

80 Jardine Road Macclesfield

A

4

B 2 C

$1,680,000 - $1,800,000

A Stunning Mudbrick Home on 50 Acres with Horse Infrastructure, where Comfort & Convenience meets Country Living.

Set on a private 50-acre estate in Macclesfield, this exceptional mudbrick residence blends timeless character with outstanding equestrian facilities. A wrap-around verandah welcomes you to a lightfilled open plan living zone with floating floors, wood fire & a beautifully updated country kitchen featuring new cabinetry, an oversized island, 900mm freestanding stove & walk-in pantry. The flexible floorplan offers up to six bedrooms, multiple living areas, study nooks & a luxurious main suite with balcony, ensuite & extensive robes. Outside, horse lovers will appreciate four fenced paddocks, a 40m x 20m arena, tack room, hay shed, float shed, woodshed, chicken coop & established orchard.

Extensive shedding includes a 24m x 12m powered high-bay shed & separate machinery shed.

Samantha Scott M 0438 680 032

3

A

2

B 2 C

5

A

3

B 10 C

bellrealestate.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 31

HOME FOCUS

A PRIVATE MONBULK HAVEN WITH EXCEPTIONAL VERSATILITY PRIVATELY positioned amongst established gardens and mature trees, 43B Rankins Road, Monbulk offers an impressive combination of space, flexibility and peaceful Hills living, with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living areas and excellent outdoor space.

At the heart of the home is the spacious kitchen and dining area, featuring extensive timber cabinetry, a large island bench, gas cooking and dishwasher. Expansive windows surround the dining space, drawing in natural light while framing the beautiful garden outlook.

Multiple living zones provide plenty of room for the family to spread out, including a generous lounge and a separate family room with soaring ceilings, large windows and a wood-burning fireplace.

The main bedroom is a standout, featuring a walk-in robe, private ensuite with spa bath and shower, plus its own mezzanine retreat above. This additional level creates a fantastic private space for a study, reading area or quiet retreat.

A separate upstairs wing includes two wellsized bedrooms with built-in robes, a central bathroom and an office positioned between the bedrooms, providing an ideal setup for children, teenagers or those working from home. A fourth bedroom on the main level is serviced by another bathroom nearby.

Outside, the established grounds provide generous lawn areas, mature trees and plenty of room to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. A large paved patio creates an inviting entertaining area, while the garage, substantial carport and three separate sheds provide excellent parking, workshop and storage options.

Despite its private setting, the property remains within easy reach of Monbulk township, schools, shops, cafes and everyday amenities. Spacious, flexible and surrounded by beautiful gardens, 43B Rankins Road offers an exceptional family lifestyle with room both inside and out. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 43B Rankins Road, MONBULK Description: 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 4 garage Price: $1,050,000 - $1,125,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Brad Conder 0422 639 115 and Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 9754 6888

32 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

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Real Estate you can trust!

We’re here to help.

20 McAllister Road, MONBULK 3

1

3

39 Fairy Dell Road, TECOMA

1188m2

3

1

2

991m2

36 Ferny Creek Ave, UPPER FERNTREE GULLY 4

3

3

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

$770,000 - $830,000

$780,000 - $850,000

$790,000-$860,000

Daniel Steen 0434 979 142

Brad Conder 0422 639 115

Brad Conder 0422 639 115

Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554

67 Morris Road, UPWEY 4

2

4

48 Ternes Road, UPWEY

1300m2

4

2

2123m2

1006m2

Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554

43B Rankins Road, MONBULK 4

3

4

2641m2

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

$950,000 - $1,040,000

$990,000 - $1,080,000

$1,050,000 - $1,125,000

Daniel Steen 0434 979 142

Brad Conder 0422 639 115

Brad Conder 0422 639 115

Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554

Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554

03 9754 6888 office@chandlerandco.com.au 1689 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave Vic 3160 mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 33

PUZZLES To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

easy

8 9 2 5

5

7 1 9 3 9 4 7 5 8 1 6 7 4 9 4 5 8 8 1 9 4 7 3 6 8 3 medium

5

3 8 4

9 8 5

2

3 8 6 6 9

5

ACROSS

23 26 27 28 29

6 1 7 6 2

26

24

18

22

8

23

1

3 1

2 4 5 1

9 4 5 3

6

14 16 17 19 22 23 24 25

8

4

18

1

16

22

22

12

4

8 1

4

9

6

5

16

12

4

1 25

1

22

6

4 9

1

11

12

1

22

6

9

21

6

4

18 8

4

20

21

15

17

1

17

1

21

10

4

4

9

10

9

8 20

22

16 13

19

1 25

W

21

8

22

19

10

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

W Q

F B H L U G A D N P X W Q 15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

O Z K S C T V I E Y M R J 7

8

9

10

11

12

13

medium

6

easy

5

1

4

2 6

3

7

2

9 2 4

18

W

9

4

9-LETTER WORD Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once.

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

N

Today’s Aim: 18 words: Good 27 words: Very good 36 words: Excellent

1 7 8 9 3 6 4 2 5 3 2 9 4 8 5 6 1 7 4 5 6 7 1 2 9 8 3 9 1 2 8 4 3 7 5 6 5 8 3 1 6 7 2 4 9 7 6 4 2 5 9 1 3 8 8 3 1 6 9 4 5 7 2 2 9 5 3 7 1 8 6 4 6 4 7 5 2 8 3 9 1

4 5 6 1 3 8 2 7 9 9 2 7 5 6 4 8 3 1 3 1 8 7 9 2 4 5 6 5 4 9 8 2 6 3 1 7 7 3 2 9 4 1 5 6 8 8 6 1 3 5 7 9 4 2 6 8 3 2 1 5 7 9 4 2 9 4 6 7 3 1 8 5 1 7 5 4 8 9 6 2 3

I

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genii, gins, grin, grins, grip, gripe, gripes, grips, hinge, hinges, hiring, neigh, neighs, nigh, pegs, PERISHING, ping, pings, prig, prising, reign, reigns, resign, rigs, ring, rings, rising, sigh, sign, signer, sing, singe, singer, siring, sprig, spring

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SPORT

Cobras go back-to-back

By Mikayla van Loon

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Kilsyth Cobras VYC Men’s won the championship back-to-back. (Supplied) nals”. That vision was correct.

In the first round against Knox, Mr Wuersching said the team was excited and ready “to send a bit of a message”, delivering a first-quarter 29-7 dominance, setting the tone for the rest of their championship push.

To highlight this advantage before their finals opener, Mr Wuersching wrote two numbers on the whiteboard: 26 to 3.

“No one could kind of guess,” Mr Wuersching said. “When I actually explained to them, it was within the group that we all had playing that day... we had 26 games of grand final experience compared to their team that only had three.”

That poise and experience of the leadership group showed all throughout the tournament “Basketball is a game of imperfection, things are going to go wrong,” Mr Wuersching noted.

“We just had all of that experience along with so many guys that have come into the team this year and got so much more experience than maybe they were expecting because of the injuries.

“When things go wrong, don’t panic. Stick to

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what we’ve got: great talk, great energy, and rely on each other rather than trying to solve it yourself.”

The championship game delivered its own drama. After watching the Kilsyth VYC Women’s team compete the night before, who lost by a single point, the men took the court with high energy, taking a near 20-point cushion into halftime thanks to a fresh tactical tweak.

“We came out and did something completely different to what we’ve done all year, which is a little bit terrifying as a coach to put something brand new in the week of a grand final,” Wuersching admitted.

“The willingness of the guys to buy in... and then to go out and execute it on that stage was unbelievable.”

When the opposition mounted a second-half run to cut the lead to six points, the Cobras stayed composed.

They stretched the lead back out to nine in the final minute, allowing the group to soak in the moment before the final siren sparked celebrations.

The victory further solidifies Kilsyth’s reputa-

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The Kilsyth Cobras Victorian Youth Championship (VYC) Men’s team secured back-to-back titles following a season defined by injury, adversity, and big-stage experience.

Head coach Zac Wuersching reflected on a challenging yet rewarding campaign, highlighting how grit and a deep pool of finals experience carried his side over the line.

Finishing fourth in the regular season with a 15-7 record, the Cobras were just two games off the top seed. However, their regular-season record hardly told the full story of the obstacles they faced.

“For us it was honestly probably a hard regular season because of all the injuries we had,” Mr Wuersching said.

“We had three of our starters miss at least 10 games each due to major knee injuries.”

After charging out to an impressive early start around 10-1 or 11-2, the Cobras hit a rough patch as the squad thinned out. With a 16-player squad, Kilsyth managed to field a full 12-man roster just once all year, in the first round of the finals.

“Every other week, we had at max 11,” Mr Wuersching said.

“I think one game we literally played with seven in a grand final rematch of last year. So, honestly, it was a really tough season from that perspective.”

Despite the revolving lineup, the team managed to secure a top-four finish.

“For the guys to find a way to do enough through the regular season... to put us in a position to finish top four was honestly a pretty remarkable effort from them.”

Despite the regular-season turbulence, Mr Wuersching’s group carried confidence into the postseason, anchored by a core group of veteran leaders. Five players on the roster had played in all four of the club’s consecutive grand final appearances.

Mr Wuersching noted that if the group could make it there, “no one would want to play us in fi-

tion as an elite basketball talent factory. Across 12 VYC seasons since 2013, Kilsyth has reached eight grand finals and won five championships.

For Mr Wuersching, the VYC program serves a purpose far beyond the scoreboard.

“It’s Under-23s, and we have the conversation through the year: How many of you guys are actually going to go on and play professional basketball? Maybe one,” Mr Wuersching said.

“The rest of the stuff we’re working on here is how you become better humans and better people and carry these skills on.”

NBL1 coach Zach Moult said it was an “ultraimpressive season by the guys”, especially seeing several players get a call-up to the NBL1 side amidst the challenges of the regular season, cementing the pathway to the higher level of play.

“We had 12 athletes from our VYC pathway that played NBL1 minutes for us this season - most of any club nationally,” he said.

“We’ve worked particularly hard over the past two seasons to strengthen the pathway from VYC to NBL1, with combined practice time, aligning our style of play, and strengthening the player relationships that span over 18 years in difference between the two groups.

“It’s a terrific reflection of our pathway as a whole, beginning at the junior level; and something we are incredibly proud of.”

Mr Wuersching also credited the local fanbase for creating an environment unmatched in youth sports.

“A massive appreciation to the local community, whether they’ve got kids that play at Kilsyth or they’ve got kids that play domestic, or whatever it is. It is that community feeling and people turning up to watch us that makes it exciting for these players.

“A massive thank you to everyone that turns up and supports the team. It is just such an enjoyable thing to get to do at that age, to turn up and play under bright lights, commentators, music, with a big crowd.”

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SPORT

Boronia Hawks and Park Orchards battle it out in the EFNL Women’s Premier Division Grand Final.

Boronia Hawks with the ball during Saturday’s Grand Final.

Coaches Tim Cavanagh and Steve Brotja embrace after the match.

HE Parker Reserve was packed with spectators for the Grand Final.

Hawks history is made

By Mikayla Van Loon and Shamsiya Hussainpoor HE Parker Reserve was packed on Saturday 29 August for the Eastern Football Netball League’s women’s Premier Division Grand Final clash between Park Orchards and Boronia.

The second-versus-fourth ladder matchup was set to be a Grand Final for the ages, as both teams set out to make history.

The Hawks were playing in their first Premier Division Grand Final, while Park Orchards was looking to grab a three-peat off the back of last year’s victory over South Belgrave, and 2024’s Division One win over North Ringwood.

Boronia’s lead-up to the Grand Final saw them outplay the ladder leaders in South Croydon, defeating the top side by a miraculous and heartstopping one-point win the week prior.

The EFNL noted that under coach Sean Buncle, Boronia’s recruitment has been fantastic across the last couple of seasons. Georgia Kavanagh, Harriet Knijff, Indiana Makai and Sophie Stark are just some of the key inclusions this season to the list.

Boronia defeated Park Orchards the last time the two sides met back in Round 12 at Domeney Reserve.

Unfortunately, on the day of the Grand Final, the Sharks were too strong for the Hawks, manoeuvring through play with ease and leaving Boronia scoreless in the first half.

After halftime, the Hawks picked up momentum, with a goal from Jasmine Coney and one from Klara Vickov to push them forward.

But the Sharks responded almost instantly every time, pushing the margin out.

Boronia kept putting up a fight to the end, even when victory looked unlikely. The final score was Park Orchards 42 to Boronia’s 14.

Harriet Knijff, Ali Gottliebsen, Paige Deane, Kelsie Ternes, Briannan Lambe and Jemima Fulton were among Hawks’ best on the ground.

While the Grand Final result did not go Boronia’s way, reaching the Premier Division decider marked a significant step forward for the Hawks and capped off an impressive season of growth for the club.

Following the Grand Final, Boronia Hawks head coach Sean Buncle reflected on the team’s remarkable season, the belief that developed within the group and the foundations being built for the future.

Q: Looking back at that win over South Croydon, what did it mean to the group to earn a Grand Final spot?

A: It was an incredible sense of achievement for the group to earn the opportunity to play in a Grand Final. It was a reflection of the hard work, dedication and commitment everyone has put in throughout the season to improve.

It’s bigger than just getting to the Grand Final, it’s a great reflection of the program the club has built and the belief the players have developed in themselves and each other.

Q: At the start of the season, did you think the team could make it this far?

A: We definitely believed we were capable of improving, but I don’t think anyone was looking too far ahead at the start of the season.

Our focus was really on building the foundations of the program, creating a strong environment and getting better each week. As the season progressed, the players started to believe in what they could achieve, and that belief has continued to grow.

Now we’ve earned the right to be in a Grand Final.

Q: How much confidence did that one-point win give the team heading into the Grand Final?

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Park Orchards and Boronia battle it out in the EFNL Women’s Premier Division Grand Final. ((Mikayla van Loon: 575278)

Not the result they were hoping for, but a brilliant season for the Boronia Hawks.

Park Orchards celebrates their win.

Saturday’s Grand final.

A Hawks player sends the ball forward during the Grand Final.

The end of an amazing season for the Boronia Hawks.

The Hawks congratulate their opponents.

Vice captain Cad Schmidli (21).

A: A huge amount. To be involved in a game like that, where there was so much pressure and it came down to the final moments, gives the group enormous belief.

We showed that we can handle pressure, stay composed and find a way to win when the game is on the line.

But at the same time, we know a Grand Final is a completely new challenge, so we can’t rely on what happened in the preliminary final. We’ll take the confidence from it, but we know we need to earn it all again on Grand Final day.

Q: Boronia came into the finals as the underdog, did you feel the team had something to prove?

A: I don’t think we’re focused on proving anything to anyone.

The team prides itself on getting the best out of each other and bringing our best footy every time we play. That’s our focus — to prepare well, back ourselves in and see how good we can be on the day.

Q: What has been the biggest reason behind the team’s turnaround this season?

I think it’s been the belief and connection within the group.

The players have really bought into the program and into what we’re trying to build together.

There’s been a genuine willingness to work hard for each other, challenge each other and keep improving.

We’ve also had great support from the broader club, and that’s created an environment where the players feel valued and want to be part of something bigger than themselves.

Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL 37

SPORT

Promotion push continues On Saturday afternoon, Monbulk Rangers FV Men’s Seniors and Reserves hosted East Bentleigh in the Rangers’ final home game of the season.

With plenty on the line, the Seniors knew a win would guarantee them at least a chance at promotion through a fourth-place playoff, while third place and automatic promotion remained a possibility depending on other results.

Reserves The Reserves were first up, facing a tough task against a Bentleigh side sitting second on the ladder.

Rangers enjoyed a promising first half, keeping the visitors to limited chances and heading into the break level at 0-0.

However, East Bentleigh came out strongly after half-time, scoring twice in quick succession.

Rangers responded soon after, with Jaydon Steele playing a lovely through ball to Brayden Jones, who made no mistake, smashing the ball past the keeper to bring Rangers back into the game.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t to be for the Reserves, as East Bentleigh went on to score twice more to secure a 4-1 victory.

Seniors The Seniors were up next, facing an East Bentleigh side sitting at the bottom of the table but one that had recorded some decent recent results and was looking to finish strongly.

Monbulk flew out of the gates, opening the scoring after just 90 seconds.

Lucas Schmidt won the ball high up the pitch before it fell to Steve McRae, who played a perfectly weighted pass to Jack Higgins.

Higgins made no mistake, smashing the ball into the top corner to give Rangers an early lead.

Rangers soon doubled their advantage, with Schmidt cutting the ball back to Luke Baker, who calmly placed his finish into the bottom corner to make it 2-0.

The scoring continued when a thunderous strike from Baker was parried by the East Bentleigh goalkeeper, with Schmidt quickest to react and finish the rebound to put Rangers three goals ahead.

East Bentleigh weren’t going to go down without a fight, however, pulling a goal back late in the first half to give Rangers some nerves heading into the break.

The warm and sunny conditions began to take their toll in the second half, with plenty of tired legs on both sides.

Rangers were unable to create as many clearcut chances, while East Bentleigh continued to push forward in search of a way back into the contest.

Their pressure eventually paid off, with the visitors scoring again to reduce the deficit to 3-2 with 15 minutes remaining.

The final stages were a nervous affair for Rangers, who knew they needed to hold on to keep their promotion hopes alive.

East Bentleigh continued to push forward, but the Monbulk defence stood strong, clearing away attack after attack and refusing to give the visitors a clear opportunity to equalise.

After a tense final few minutes, Rangers held on to secure a crucial 3-2 victory.

The result keeps Monbulk firmly in the promotion race heading into the final stages of the season, with the Rangers now set for a huge finish as they look to cap off an impressive campaign with promotion.

Monbulk celebrate their opening goal. (Ollie Tory)

Around the region’s football ovals and netball courts

By Armin Richter Football Premier Division (Finals - Week 1) Seniors: QF Mt. Evelyn 8.13.61 def OlindaFerny Creek 7.13.55; EF Officer 17.17.119 def Monbulk 7.7.49 Reserves: QF Officer 8.5.53 def Upwey-Tecoma 4.8.32; EF Olinda-Ferny Creek 8.9.57 def Wandin 7.5.47 Under 18: QF Healesville 8.6.54 def UpweyTecoma 6.6.42; EF Mt. Evelyn 9.8.62 def Wandin 9.6.60 Division 1 (Finals - Week 2) Seniors: 2SF Pakenham 15.7.97 def Seville 11.8.74; 1SF 14.16.100 def Emerald 7.6.48 Reserves: 2SF Pakenham 22.16.148 def Seville 3.2.20; 1SF Belgrave 9.11.65 def Emerald 3.3.21 Under 18: 2SF Seville 14.12.96 def Pakenham 5.5.35; 1SF Yarra Glen 6.5.41 def Alexandra 4.8.32 Netball Premier Division (Finals - Week 1) A Grade: QF Wandin 71 def Monbulk 48; EF 1SF Woori Yallock 40 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 31 B Grade: QF Woori Yallock 50 def ROC 49; EF Monbulk 53 def Wandin 37 C Grade: QF Mt. Evelyn 36 def ROC 32; EF Woori Yallock 37 def Warburton-Millgrove 32 D Grade: QF Mt. Evelyn 43 def Monbulk 14; EF ROC 43 def Wandin 28 Under 17: QF Woori Yallock 38 def ROC Blue 33; EF ROC White 29 def Monbulk Maroon 27 Under 15: QF ROC Blue 41 def Pakenham Maroon 35; EF Wandin Blue 31 def Woori Yallock 22 Division 1 (Finals - Week 2) A Grade: 2SF Pakenham 48 def Seville 41; Emerald 43 def Yarra Glen 32 B Grade: 2SF Pakenham 49 def Seville 39; 1SF Emerald 44 def Yarra Glen 30 C Grade: 2SF Seville 37 def Pakenham 33; 1SF Yarra Glen 50 def Emerald 33 D Grade: 2SF Pakenham 45 def Seville 33; 1SF Yarra Glen 23 def Emerald 21 Under 17: 2SF Seville Blue 30 def Pakenham Gold 29; 1SF Emerald 35 def Alexandra 24 Under 15: 2SF Wandin Red 35 def Monbulk Maroon 34; 1SF Pakenham Gold 40 def ROC White 12

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38 MAIL | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

Joel Wensley gathers the ball with Will Hughson and Nic Wall in support in the Senior Elimination Final. (Anthea Heagney)

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SPORT

Ella Flynn (centre) celebrates her 50th game in the D Grade Qualifying Final.

Desperation is shown by Asha Jones of Monbulk and her Wandin rival in the A Grade Qualifying Final.

Peri Reid gathers in a pass in the A Grade Qualifying Final against Wandin.

Monbulk teams progress Elly Stewart 33, Dayna Walsham 14, • Goals: Chloe Carmichael 6

By Armin Richter Football Seniors The seniors qualified for finals for the third time in five years since returning to Premier division, inching past Woori Yallock and Upwey-Tecoma to grab the last spot in the final round. It is just the second time that those two Tigers clubs, the most successful in the competition’s 60 year history and the only two original clubs never to have been relegated, have both missed the finals in the same year. The first time was in 2000 when Upwey finished fifth but it was still a final four then.

Monbulk came up against Officer in the Elimination Final on Sunday at Woori Yallock. The Hawks started well by scoring the first two goals on the back of their trademark pressure football.

Officer then steadied with some skillful running and possession play, which resulted in a series of nine successive goals to effectively end the contest. Monbulk never gave up but the margin was too large to be able to make any inroads into.

Monbulk 7.7.49 def by Officer 17.17.119 Best: Lochlan Beecroft, Will Henderson, Joshua Spencer, Johnathon Hevern, Ben Hughson, Dylan Werts Goals: Johnathon Hevern 3, Joshua Dawson 2, Adam Banks 1, Patrick Snoxell 1 Netball Monbulk had six of their eight teams qualify for the finals, with five of those progressing to the second week. A, B and D Grade will all play in 1st Semi Finals at Woori Yallock on Sunday.

A Grade Having qualified for the double chance the Hawks came up against perennial powerhouse Wandin.

In a fast and entertaining contest it was the Bulldogs who gained the supremacy through quick ball movement and defensive pressure. Monbulk will meet Woori this week and they have split the results during the year, with both games having been decided by 5 goals or less.

D Grade Ella Flynn played her 50th game in the Qualifying Final against the Rovers. The Hawks were unlucky in the opening term and Mt. Evelyn grew in confidence and took control of the game. Monbulk went down fighting and will aim to bounce back against ROC this coming Sunday at Woori Yallock.

Monbulk 14 def by Mt. Evelyn 43 Best: Katrina Wragg, Tara Donald, Shayne Broekhof Goals: Ella Flynn 6, Jamie Sands 6, Tara Donald 2 Under 17s This year is just the third that Monbulk have fielded a team in this age bracket, and the first where they fielded two sides, with the Maroon girls becoming the first ever to reach the finals for the Hawks. ROC White gained an early break and held a 4 to 6 goal lead for most of the first three terms. The Hawks then put an all out attack in the final quarter and not only reeled in the deficit but established a 1 goal break before unfortunately conceding the last three goals to go down narrowly. The whole team deserve praise for the great season that they have had.

Monbulk Maroon 27 def by ROC White 29 Best & Goals not available Under 15s With the Gold team having a week off as the minor premiers it was the Maroon team that headed to Healesville on Saturday morning to represent the club. After conceding an early four goal lead, Maroon were trailing by five at the last change.

They battled back to draw level before a late goal sunk them. Both Gold and Maroon will play for a spot in the Grand Final in their respective divisions on Saturday morning at Woori Yallock and Yarra Junction respectively.

Monbulk Maroon 34 def by Wandin Red 35 Best & Goals not available

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Monbulk’s Riley Finlay shakes off his Officer opponent in the Seniors Elimination Final.

(Anthea Heagney) Monbulk 48 def by Wandin 71

• Best: Peri Reid, Grace Scott-Thomas, Nicole Macdowell • Goals: Peri Reid 26, Jorja Wragg 22

B Grade Monbulk played one of their best matches of the season in the Elimination Final against Wandin.

During the year Wandin won the first encounter

60-44 while the Hawks reversed that result with a 51-47 win three weeks ago. Monbulk held the edge through the first half with a three goal lead before unleashing in the third quarter with a stunning 17-6 term. They went on to record a morale boosting 16 goal win and will meet ROC next.

Monbulk 53 def Wandin 37 Best: Chloe Carmichael, Ava Thompson, Clementine Nicholas

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Big wins as finals approach at Ferntree Gully Tennis Club Finals fever has arrived at Ferntree Gully Tennis Club, with several teams preparing for important matches after strong seasons across a number of competitions.

In the Waverley Tennis Association, Section A1 secured a thrilling 5-4 victory over HE Parker Reserve Red and will now head into a home semi-final next week.

Section A7 also finished its season on a winning note, defeating HE Parker Reserve 4-3.

Unfortunately, the result wasn’t quite enough to secure a finals berth, with the team finishing fifth on the ladder.

Section A8 went down 6-1 to NottinghillPinewood and finished the season in seventh place.

There is also plenty to look forward to in Tennis Victoria Men’s Pennant, with both Ferntree Gully teams earning home finals after excellent seasons.

Grade 3 finished second on the ladder, while Grade 19 claimed top spot.

Congratulations to both teams and best of luck for finals!

There were some impressive results in the

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Knox District Night Tennis Association, particularly from Ferntree Gully’s two Tuesday Section 1 teams.

The AI team recorded a dominant 6-0 win over Emerald, while DP defeated Selby 5-1.

Tuesday Section 3 remarkably recorded another tie, this time against Upwey South, with the teams unable to be separated at three sets each and 30 games apiece.

Section 4 was defeated 5-1 by Monbulk.

On Thursday night, Section 1 went down 4-1 to Montrose, while Section 4 had a close contest against Mount Evelyn, narrowly losing 3-2.

In the Ferntree Gully and District Ladies’ Tennis Association, the Section 3 ladies were involved in another closely fought encounter.

Ferntree Gully and Wantirna finished level at three sets each, with Wantirna taking the match 42 games to 36.

The Midweek Eastern Metropolitan Region Ladies’ Tennis Association returns next week, with the club looking forward to the start of a new season.

Ferntree Gully’s juniors enjoyed another strong round in Eastern Region Tennis, winning

five of their six matches.

Rubbers 25 recorded an impressive 5-0 victory over Upwey South, while Rubbers 34 defeated Selby 5-1.

JOSD 8 beat Emerald 4-2, JDC 2 defeated Yarra Glen Purple 1-0 and JDC 3 recorded a 2-0 win over Montrose Blue.

Rubbers 31 was the only team to miss out, going down 4-2 to Wantirna Blue.

Away from competition, the club was also delighted to see Treasurer Ann Bailey recognised as a finalist in the Victorian Disability Sport and Recreation Awards.

The recognition is richly deserved for Ann’s dedication to the club and, in particular, the enormous contribution she makes to the club’s All Abilities program.

Ann works tirelessly behind the scenes to help make tennis welcoming, accessible and affordable for people with disability, and her contribution extends well beyond her role as Treasurer.

The club is incredibly proud to see her commitment to inclusive sport recognised at a state level.

Benjamin and Kian from Open Rubbers 34.

(Supplied)

Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 | MAIL 39

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40 MAIL | Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

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