Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
Parking fine starts debate in Lilydale
Time capsule celebrates 20yrs of Evelyn Ridge
Rovers lose GF in last quarter to Wandin
See Real Estate liftout inside
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Falcons hoist flag The Lilydale Over 50s completed an undefeated season with a premiership victory, defeating Peninsula at Roy Dore Reserve on Sunday 13 September. After leading narrowly through three quarters, the Falcons kicked three last-quarter goals against the wind to seal the 23-point win. Lilydale’s best players were Steve Andrews, Haydn Salter, Jarrod Prior, David teBoekhorst, and Marc Hofstee. Playing coach Dean de Munk highlighted the win’s significance, noting it was the first premiership for seven or eight players. The flag capped a successful year for the Lilydale AFL Masters program, which fielded teams across three age groups. Turn to page 27 for the full story
The Lilydale Falcons Over 50s lift the premiership cup aloft. (Supplied)
Ebony’s top prize Lilydale High School student Ebony Peet will soon travel to Vietnam after being named one of 12 Victorian recipients of this year’s Premier’s Spirit of Anzac Prize. The prestigious award recognises secondary school students who demonstrate a strong understanding of the Anzac spirit. As part of the fully funded study tour, Ms Peet will learn firsthand about the impact of the Vietnam War and Australia’s history of service and sacrifice.
Ms Peet’s application stood out for its combination of community service, academic curiosity, and ambition to support veterans in the future. Alongside her studies, she has balanced a casual job, leadership roles, and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, through which she volunteered at a kindergarten and participated in a food drive. “I applied for the Spirit of Anzac prize because I saw it as an opportunity to explore the history beyond the classroom and gain a deeper understanding of the human experiences behind it,” Ms
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Peet said. The tour carries deep personal significance for Ms Peet, whose family has a rich military history. Her great-grandfathers served in World War II and the British Army, her grandfather served in the Australian Army, and her great-uncle served in Vietnam as an engineer clearing unexploded ordnance. “There is a direct connection between my family’s history and the places we will be visiting,” she explained, noting that hearing about their
experiences sparked her interest in studying psychology to help veterans and their families. “Hearing about my family’s experiences has made me realise that the impact of military service doesn’t necessarily end when someone returns home.” Ms Peet hopes to bring her learnings back to her school and community while encouraging younger generations to engage with Australia’s military history to bridge the generational gap. Turn to page 5 to read more
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Wesburn-Millgrove CFA members gave this year’s stair climb a red-hot go. (Supplied)
‘You’ll never be alone’ By Oliver Winn CFA brigades in the Yarra Ranges raised a whopping $112,000 at the 2026 Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb (MFSC) for cancer research, mental health services and support for emergency service workers. Around 1000 firefighters donned 25 kilograms of turnout gear and ascended 28 floors of the Crown Metropol in Melbourne on Saturday 12 September. The fundraising efforts from brigades and emergency service personnel across Australia and New Zealand reached roughly $1,104,000 this year. Familiar faces returned to the steps with local Yarra Ranges-based firefighters taking part in the climb. Warburton CFA member Kodie Ireland raised $1230 and completed the climb in seven minutes and 12 seconds. She said she forgets just how tough the climb truly is every year. “But just like every other year, we do it to help raise funds and awareness for some incredible causes, and although it’s a tough climb, the symbolism behind facing that challenge to raise funds for charities that support people struggling with mental health and cancer really puts things into perspective and makes it such a meaningful personal triumph to reach the top of that tower,” she said. The MFSC originally began as a tribute to the
Memorial Firefighter Stair Climb, which honoured the sacrifice of 343 firefighters who lost their lives during the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks in America. The MFSC is now a national fundraiser for Australian emergency service personnel, raising money for organisations Lifeline, Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation and the Triple Zero Foundation. In his 12th year of completing the stair climb, Wesburn-Millgrove CFA member Tony Lewis finished “significantly slower” than previous years, but his $3845 raised was a “personal best”. “Watching my fundraising total climb each week, knowing that I had the support of so many very generous and caring individuals was a driving force for me and I sincerely thank everyone that has donated and supported me, not only this year, but for over the past 12 years,” he said. Mr Lewis congratulated his fellow CFA members Troy, Peter and Izzy for their efforts this year. Hillcrest CFA’s Colin Dickson was the fastest climber in the 60 years and over category, finishing with a speedy six minutes and eight seconds. He was followed closely by fellow Hillcrest CFA member Andrew Smith at eight minutes and five seconds. Wandin CFA member Rico Bergamin raised just under $2000 this year and finished the climb in five minutes and 15 seconds. MFSC event director and Triple Zero Foundation director Chris May said the beneficiaries supported the health battles emergency service
Wesburn-Millgrove CFA member Tony Lewis raised a personal best of $3845. (Supplied) personnel deal with. “There’s a lot of chronic health issues and battles that were faced by the responders that did all the recovery work at the World Trade Centre locations,” he said. “We know for a fact that there were severe mental health implications for those that responded… so Lifeline is a worthwhile charity.” The money raised will fund cancer research to help the firefighters diagnosed with cancer as a result of breathing in dust and dangerous par-
ticulates. Meanwhile, the Triple Zero Foundation supports first responders with a “shoulder to lean on”. The Yarra Ranges brigade that raised the most funds was Lilydale CFA with an impressive $19,600. Representing Clematis CFA, Mr May himself raised $6000 this year, climbing in memory of the Ferntree Gully firefighter Shane Bishop. Mr May said it was beautiful to see many firefighters dedicate their climbs in honour of loved ones. “Being the start line attendant myself and sending off many of the climbers on their way, I saw hundreds of tributes, people wearing tributes to those that have passed away from suicide and from chronic health battles such as cancer, which was really heartwarming to see. “As an example of that, Tom Prunty, who is part of the Buninyong Mount Helen team, his brother Connor unfortunately passed away from cancer, so when Tom climbs each year he carries up his brother’s helmet from his time in the CFA,” Mr May said. While firefighters might’ve felt alone on the climb, Mr May said the energy and spirit of their tributes accompanied them every step of the way. “I said at the start line, I was like, ‘You know, you’re climbing 28 floors, but you’ll never be alone on that climb. The energy and the compassion that you have will spur you on going up there, but you’ll have all those people with you along the way’.”
Need for homelessness support rising By Callum Ludwig A new report has revealed that the Yarra Ranges, Knox and Maroondah are among the top 20 LGAs for people seeking specialist homelessness support. Concerningly, the data also reveals that the number of people seeking support in the Outer East is on the rise. The Council to Homeless Persons (CHP) ‘Walk In Her Shoes: Community Insights’ report was presented to the Victorian Government on Wednesday 9 September as part of the CHP Walk in Her Shoes exhibition. The exhibition has used illustrations and photography to tell the stories of three women, Brea, Diana and Vanessa, who became homeless at different stages of life: as a young person, a mother caring for two children, and an older Victorian. Council to Homeless Persons CEO Deborah Di Natale said the campaign had been a major success in enhancing understanding of a crisis that is too often reduced to numbers. 2 MAIL | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
“Walk In Her Shoes has let thousands of Victorians stand in the shoes of Brea, Diana and Vanessa and see how homelessness can touch a young person fleeing violence, a mother trying to hold her family together, or an older woman who has simply run out of options,” she said. “Every community we visited told us the same thing, that the housing system is failing women, and that governments have the power to fix it. “This is an incredible opportunity for (housing and homelessness) Minister (Nick) Staikos and politicians from all sides to engage with the hidden face of women’s homelessness and make real commitments that address the crisis.” Maroondah, Knox and Yarra Ranges came in at 16th (2094), 17th (2055) and 18th (1938) respectively for homelessness presentations in Victoria over 2024-25. Concerningly, Maroondah and Yarra Ranges recorded some of the biggest increases when compared to 2022-23 data, having shot up 32 per cent and 25 per cent over that two year period. Knox also recorded a six per cent increase over
the same period. After their 12-month tour of Victorian communities, which included time spent in Maroondah, the Council to Homeless Persons identified five key themes in the community responses: 1.Build more social housing, especially public housing. 2. Invest in more prevention and early intervention. 3. Take more action to end family violence. 4. Boost crisis responses. 5. Improve coordination and integration of services. After hearing from Ms Di Natale, Premier Ben Carroll and Mr Staikos announced a $24.8 million investment into a plan to help reduce rough sleeping. The plan includes a roll out of coordinated by-name lists and an online triage system, funding for complex care coordinators, expansion of assertive outreach workers to every area of the state, expand Housing First tenancy supports to an extra 1000 people at risk of homelessness and
Demand for homelessness support services has risen significantly in Maroondah, Yarra Ranges and Knox. (File) providing ongoing operational funding for crucial youth homelessness centres. Mr Carroll said every Victorian deserves a safe place to call home. “This comprehensive plan backs in the people and services making that happen,” he said. Mr Staikos said this plan finds new ways to maximise our investment and tackle this confronting, increasingly visible issue. “Our homelessness response spans the full continuum – from outreach and crisis accommodation to supportive housing and social homes,” he said.
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IN BRIEF Register burn offs online
Marlene Smith went back to the car park multiple times to capture people also parking incorrectly. (Supplied)
Parking frustrations By Claudia Mather Last month, a local resident, Marlene Smith, was fined $125 after parking on a busy Lilydale service road facing in the wrong direction, sparking debate over unclear signage and road markings. The two-hour parallel carpark sits between 170-190 Main Street, in front of Bean Seen Cafe on a dead-end service road. The service road is two-way, and when parallel parking on the north side, closest to Maroondah Highway, drivers are supposedly instructed to park facing east towards Healesville. “I parked my car at 12.30pm and when I came back to my car about an hour and a quarter later, I’d gotten a parking fine and they’d actually printed out the parking ticket at 12.37pm,” Ms Smith said. “But what I had been fined for was parking in the wrong direction.” According to Ms Smith, there are no signs indicating the correct parking direction, and she was not the only one to have parked in that direction. She said on that same day another car had the same infringement notice taped to their car for also parking in the incorrect direction. “It’s not a good feeling and no one wants to deliberately break the law,” she said. “There is no clear marked parking arrow or signs to state this.” Ms Smith said she has gone back to the car park since receiving the fine and noticed multiple people making the same mistake and parking in the wrong direction. “I’ve just been flabbergasted as to how many people are parking similar to me because it’s just not made clear to them.” In the Victoria Road Safety Rules 2017, rule
The 2-hour parking sign in the Lilydale car park. 208 (1) outlines that a driver who parks on a road must position the driver’s vehicle in accordance with subrules (2) and (8). In sub-rule (2), it says the driver must position the vehicle to face in the direction of travel of vehicles in the marked lane or line of traffic on or next to the part of the road where the driver parks. Shortly after receiving the fine, Ms Smith lodged an appeal with the help of her son Lincoln Stewart, which was rejected by Yarra Ranges Council. The council told Ms Smith that there is a sign detailing the two-way road and that they are unable to install additional signage. “We’ve gone back to them and said, ‘look, she’s going to take it to the tribunal if it gets to that’,” her son said. Ms Smith will be contesting the fine and requesting a deputation in council to explain the confusion. “They have stated that there is a sign as you
enter that lane way that says it’s a two-way road but there is no sign and it doesn’t exist,” Mr Stewart said. Ms Smith said that despite the council’s response, she is not satisfied. “They’re just kind of brushing it aside, as far as I’m concerned. “I think they are choosing really not to do anything or follow up with anything,” she said. In a statement, the Yarra Ranges Council Director of Communities, Leanne Hurst, told Star Mail that “the Victorian road safety rules stipulate that parallel parking must be done as near-aspractical to the left-side kerb, facing the direction of traffic on two-way roads. “Parking in the opposite direction poses a risk to other road users and pedestrians,” she said. She added that signage clearly indicates that the service road is two-way. “Council is not considering any additional signage.” Ms Hurst also said that the vast majority of residents park safely and legally on this service road every day. “In the past 12 months, Council has issued nine parking infringements for parking the wrong direction in these spaces.” Ms Smith said she plans to persevere with pushing the council to put some sort of parking clarification. “They are choosing not to do anything, all I can see is a big revenue grabber from all the visitors to the Yarra Valley who park there,” she said. Both Ms Smith and her son explained that they will continue to write to the council about the matter until some sort of change is made and confusion is resolved.
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and Follow regulations or laws by your • Check local council. your neighbours if the burn will gener• Notify ate fire and smoke. the weather forecast for the day of the • Check activity and a few days afterwards. your activity if high fire risk condi• Postpone tions develop. a gap in vegetation or fire break of no • Establish less than three metres cleared of all flammable material.
enough people to monitor, contain and • Have extinguish the burn safely and effectively. Never leave a burn-off unattended.
Burn off warning Emergency services have issued a stern warning against burning off in windy conditions after responding to multiple avoidable fires across the hills, including Montrose. Yarra Ranges Council regulations strictly prohibit burning off on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, as well as on any day when wind speeds exceed 15 km/h. Embers from small piles can quickly spread in strong winds, creating severe safety risks. Residents are urged to explore alternative disposal methods before lighting fires. When burning is permitted, fires must be registered online or via 1800 668 551, constantly attended, and equipped with a running hose. Significant fines apply if fires escape control.
Reminder: School zone speed limits gone School zone speed limits are inactive across the Yarra Ranges for the term three school holidays. School holidays will finish on Friday 2 October 2026, and drivers must exercise caution as school zone speed limits come back into enforcement.
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As Victorian residents begin making the most of the warmer conditions to prepare their property for the fire season, emergency services are encouraging landowners to register their burn-offs online. The quickest and easiest way to register your burn-off is by using the Fire Permits Victoria website at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au/notify. While Spring is an opportune time for landowners and residents to take advantage of the favourable weather to undertake burning off activities, more than 62 per cent of burn-off registrations in Victoria are still coming through via phone. Triple Zero Victoria’s Chief Operations Officer, Paul Santamaria, encourages the community to take the very simple step of planning ahead and registering their burn-off online during Spring. “We are still seeing high notification by phone in some areas including Lara, Olinda, Healesville, Mt Evelyn, Monbulk, Langwarrin, Yackandandah and Wonga Park and we encourage these communities to register online,” Paul said. “When everyone does their bit and registers a burn-off online it reduces unnecessary calls and helps our Triple Zero Emergency call takers to remain available to focus on emergencies and high priority calls.” If for any reason you need to start your burnoff immediately (within two hours), you can still register by calling 1800 668 511.
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Employment under pressure By Gabriella Vukman Rising unemployment across Yarra Ranges has raised questions about whether local residents are being adequately connected to job opportunities, as Victoria’s unemployment rate stays above the national figure and apprenticeship participation declines. Municipal figures show Yarra Ranges unemployment increased from 3.5 per cent in June 2025 to 4.5 per cent in March 2026. The number of unemployed residents rose from 3166 to 4045, an increase of 879 people, while the local labour force grew from 89,616 to 90,768. Although unemployment alone does not show if the shire is losing local jobs, the figures point to a changing economic landscape with sharp local disparities. Small Area Labour Markets data shows the Upper Yarra (including Warburton, Yarra Junction, Wesburn and Millgrove) experiencing relatively high unemployment and socioeconomic disadvantage. Belgrave and Selby recorded 4.2 per cent unemployment in March 2026, while Lilydale sat at 4.6 per cent. In Healesville and Yarra Glen, employment remains strongly tied to tourism, hospitality, and retail, with a large part-time workforce. At the state level, Victoria recorded 5.1 per cent unemployment in July 2026, compared to 4.5 per cent nationally. While Victorian employment grew by 0.1 per cent that month, apprenticeship numbers dropped sharply. National Centre for Vocational Education
Research data shows Victorian apprentice and trainee contracts fell 31.6 per cent from 84,330 in 2022 to 57,665 in 2026. Victorian trade commencements also fell by 1495 in the year to March 2026, the largest decline among all states. These drops come as the Victorian Government forecasts a need for 373,000 additional workers over the next three years, 303,000 in metropolitan Melbourne and 70,000 in regional Victoria, primarily in healthcare, social assistance, and construction. To position the region for growth, Yarra Ranges Council is undertaking several local planning processes. The Yarra Glen Place Plan was endorsed in July 2026 to guide development through 2046, including connectivity, accessibility, cycling and the Yarra Valley Trail. The Mooroolbark Place Plan is under development, with community workshops planned for October 2026 and draft exhibition set for March 2027. Additionally, findings from the council’s Planning Scheme Review will be provided to the Victorian Planning Minister by October 2026. Yarra Ranges Council Director of Communities Leanne Hurst emphasised the council’s commitment to supporting the local economy while noting that overall employment policy remains a State and Federal responsibility. “Council is focused on creating the conditions for local businesses and industries to grow, supporting businesses to be great employers, and connecting our community with opportunities
Yarra Ranges unemployment increased from 3.5 per cent in June 2025 to 4.5 per cent in March 2026. (Kaitlyn Baker/Unsplash) to build skills and pathways into work,” Ms Hurst said. Ms Hurst highlighted initiatives including Innovation Working Groups in the Upper Yarra exploring eco-tourism, small-scale farming, micro abattoirs, renewable energy, and transport to support the transition away from timber. The council also partners with the Outer Eastern Local Learning and Employment Network (OELLEN) to deliver an annual Careers Expo for 2000 local students. “While unemployment in Victoria has risen marginally since 2025, it remains relatively low by historical standards,” Ms Hurst added, noting the council tracks data via Economy ID to monitor local trends. Key questions remain regarding whether state employment programs are delivering lasting results. The Star Mail submitted inquiries to the Victorian Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and
Regions (DJSIR) asking for target outcomes and retention metrics for jobseekers entering sustainable work through Jobs Victoria, as well as outcomes from the state’s $8.2 million Digital Jobs - AI Career Conversion program. The masthead also contacted the Department of Treasury and Finance (DTF) regarding the economic risks of sustained 5.1 per cent unemployment and regional job creation estimates. Neither department responded by publication time. Beyond government initiatives, broader market shifts are influencing the local outlook. While AI technology is driving changes, experts distinguish between actual job elimination and slower hiring growth in exposed occupations. For outer-metropolitan areas like Yarra Ranges, the central challenge is ensuring employment planning matches local conditions, including transport, training access, and wage parity. A rise in unemployment does not automatically mean job losses; population growth, changing participation rates, and commuting patterns all play a role. Likewise, business skill shortages cannot always be filled immediately by unemployed locals without addressing barriers like qualifications and transport. Ultimately, the measure of success for local employment services relies on long-term retention rather than short-term placements. The ongoing challenge for state and local government will be turning projected workforce demand into sustainable job outcomes for Yarra Ranges residents.
Mental health support now extended
Keep your eye out for the bogong moth. (Dr Linda Broome: 509289)
Urged to help map the great Bogong Moth migration By Oliver Winn Residents are being called upon to keep their eyes peeled for the endangered Bogong Moth as it makes its annual migration to the Australian Alpine regions. As the moths pass through the Yarra Ranges over the coming months, locals can use Zoos Victoria’s Moth Tracker to log their sightings and help map their migratory path. Bogong Moths once numbered in the billions, but their population collapsed by an estimated 99.5 per cent in 2017-2018, most likely due to severe drought. Zoos Victoria senior conservation biologist Dr Marissa Parrott
said the Bogong Moth is intrinsically linked to the Critically Endangered Mountain-pygmy possum. “The moths begin their migration just as the Mountain Pygmy-possums are waking up from their annual hibernation under the snow. The possums rely on the moths as a protein-rich meal during spring when they’re busy raising litters of up to four young,” Dr Parrott said. “If these possums are to survive, we need to ensure the Bogong Moths are thriving too.” Every sighting logged to the Moth Tracker website helps scientists understand when and where the moths are flying, as well as their trending populations. These indicators inform conservationists who can in-
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tervene with actions such as supplementary feeding if Mountain Pygmy-possums look likely to go hungry. “Yarra Ranges locals don’t need to go far to spot these moths, we’ve received past sightings from people’s gardens, in parks, and from the grounds at Healesville Sanctuary,” she said. If you think you’ve seen a Bogong Moth, take a photo and upload it to the Moth Tracker website to have it verified by an expert on the interactive map. You don’t have to travel to see them - they could be around your home, garden, on the street or in a bush. Bogong Moths are only around
three centimetres long with browngrey wings and have distinctive markings: a dark band that runs vertically along each wing intersected by two beige splotches. The moths may appear individually or in large swarms when conditions are good. Moths can get drawn away from their migration by bright lights, so conservationists urge locals to turn off unnecessary outdoor lights to help them on their migration and if they find their way inside, you can gently pop them outside to fly away at nightfall. For more information on Moth Tracker, check out the website: zoo. org.au/moth-tracker.
Victorians are about to find it easier to access free mental health care, when and where they need it. Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt officially opened the Maroondah Mental Health and Wellbeing Local site in Ringwood on Wednesday 16 September. Ms Stitt said the network of Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals is transforming access to care for Victorians. The statewide network of Locals provides support and treatment for adults experiencing mental illness or psychological distress. Importantly, to access care at a Local – you don’t need a Medicare card or GP referral and services are completely free. Locals act as a ‘front door’ to the system making them an important tool in early intervention. The network of Locals has already helped almost 50,000 Victorians. Care is delivered by a multidisciplinary team of experienced mental health professionals, wellbeing staff and peer support workers. The Maroondah local will provide communities in Melbourne’s east with a range of clinical and wellbeing mental health supports, both in-person and via telehealth. The service is one of 22 Locals operating across 24 locations statewide. Services in Ringwood are delivered by Wellways in partnership with Eastern Health, Oonah Health and Community Services Aboriginal Corporation and AccessHC. Located at 46 New Street Ringwood, the Maroondah Local is open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. The Locals network comes in response to the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System. In the 2025/26 Budget the government has invested $34.4 million to strengthen the network and establish seven new locations across Victoria. For more information, visit betterhealth. vic.gov.au/mental-health-wellbeing-locals.
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Lilydale student awarded By Mikayla Van Loon and Claudia Mather Lilydale High School student Ebony Peet will soon be packing her bags and travelling to Vietnam after being named one of this year’s 12 recipients of the Premier’s Spirit of Anzac Prize. The prize is a prestigious award that recognises young people in secondary school who demonstrate a strong understanding of the Anzac spirit. As part of the prize, Ms Peet will join 11 other Victorian students on a fully funded study tour travelling to Vietnam to learn firsthand about the impact of the Vietnam War and Australia’s history of service and sacrifice. Ms Peet’s application for the prize stood out for its combination of community service, academic curiosity and a clear ambition to support veterans in the future. While balancing a casual job, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and a work experience program, Ms Peet developed a strong commitment to volunteering and serving her community. “I’ve always enjoyed being involved in my school and wider community and finding practical ways to contribute to others,” she said. Through the Duke of Edinburgh Award, Ms Peet also volunteered at a kindergarten and participated in a food drive, as well as taking on leadership roles throughout her years at Lilydale High School. “Community service is important to me because supporting people doesn’t always have to involve something huge,” she said. Ms Peet reflects on the honour of being chosen for this prize and the positive impact it will have on her career going forward as she hopes to study psychology in the future. “I applied for the Spirit of Anzac prize because I saw it as an opportunity to explore the history beyond the classroom and gain a deeper understanding of the human experiences behind it,” she said. “Being selected as one of the only 12 students from Victoria made me realise just how signifi-
Ebony Peet with Minister Natalie Suleyman at the Parliament House award presentation. (Supplied) cant the opportunity is. “It was exciting to think about the experience itself but also the responsibility of making the most of it and bringing what I learn back to my school and community. “Beyond the dates and historical details, I really want to bring back a deeper understanding of the human side of the Vietnam War.” The tour holds deep personal significance for Ms Peet, due to her family’s connection to military and war history. “My family’s military history has made the Anzac spirit much more personal to me. I don’t see it as being limited to soldiers who fought on the frontline. “My great-grandfather served with the 8th Light Horse Regiment in Darwin during World War II, my other great-grandfather served in the
British Army and my grandfather served in the Australian Army,” she said. Ms Peet’s great-uncle also served in Vietnam as an engineer supporting operational patrols and clearing unexploded explosives. “That made me interested in understanding not only the historical events themselves, but also the experiences of the people involved and the impact that war can have on families and communities. “There is a direct connection between my family’s history and the places we will be visiting,” she said. Ms Peet is most looking forward to seeing firsthand where these significant and often traumatic historical events took place and connecting those real-world locations to her interest in psychology.
“I think there is something very different about physically standing in a location where these events occurred and considering what the people who were there experienced. “I’m hoping the tour will deepen my understanding of both the significant historical events and the lasting psychological impacts of war,” Ms Peet explained. By exploring the wartime and post-wartime experiences of Vietnam veterans, Ms Peet hopes to better understand the lasting impacts of conflict. “Hearing about my family’s experiences has made me realise that the impact of military service doesn’t necessarily end when someone returns home,” she said. War affects a person’s mental health and wellbeing and it can also influence their relationships, families, and in some cases future generations. “That has contributed strongly to my interest in psychology,” Ms Peet said. “I hope the knowledge and perspective I gain from this journey will stay with me and guide how I support veterans and their families in the future.” Ms Peet also believes it is important for younger generations to have an understanding of these historical events to help war veterans and impacted families bridge the generational gap. “For younger generations, conflicts such as the Vietnam War can feel quite distant because we encounter them primarily through the classroom, documentaries and family stories,” she said. “Understanding the past and its ongoing effects is essential if we want to build a better future and prevent history from repeating itself. “Bridging that generational gap allows us to honour the past while ensuring those sacrifices continue to teach us today.” Ms Peet hopes that sharing her experience with her school community encourages other students to engage with Australia’s military history to better understand why remembrance continues to be so important.
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Back to school!
School students across Victoria made their return to school following summer holidays, while 2021’s preps got their first taste of primary school life. Wurundjeri Elder Aunty Joy Murphy conducted a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony for Badger Creek Primary School students and staff. See page 7 for more back to school excitment.
Back to school! School students across Victoria made their return to school following summer holidays, while 2021’s preps got their first taste of primary school life. Wurundjeri Elder Aunty Joy Murphy
Centre in the lead up to Christmas. Many locals far and wide were able to keep up their Christmas tradition in getting a family photo with ‘The Real Santa’ who they had grown to love. The unlikely tandem tallied upwards of $30,000 from their family Christmas photos and then selected four charities to each receive
$8400 to help make the lives of children better. The four recipients of the funds included: Backpacks 4 Vic Kids, A Better Life For Foster Kids, HeartKids and Chum Creek’s Good Life Farm. The organisations shared how the funds had already been put to good use. Backpacks 4 Vic Kids CEO and founder Sally Beard told Star Mail the donation came as a “delightful surprise”.
“We’re very, very grateful on behalf of the children, whose lives that it will impact,” she said. “We have absolutely put that money to good use.” Ms Beard shared that the $8400 donation from Branded is aiding 112 children in need with care packs filled with toiletries, spare changes of clothes, a toy and more. Continued page 2 12477022-SN06-21
It’s February, but Santa Claus’ gifts keep on coming for several charity organisations who benefited from a partnership between Saint Nick and Seville’s Branded Burger Bar. The burger bar came to the rescue when they partnered with Santa, who had seen his role replaced at Chirnside Park Shopping
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A worthy brand
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Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | MAIL 5
NEWS
Streeton Ward councillor Jeff Marriot shields the wind to help Tristan Harris perform the smoking ceremony. (579809)
Evelyn Ridge residents, staff and guests celebrated the 20th anniversary under beautiful blue skies. (Oliver Winn: 579809)
Evelyn Ridge manager John Carrigan holding the time capsule. (579809)
‘Deeply connected’ village By Oliver Winn The beaming sun warmed Evelyn Ridge Retirement Village residents as they celebrated its 20th anniversary on 18 September, burying a time capsule and solidifying community connection. A smoking ceremony and a Welcome to Country paid respects to the Wurundjeri people as the Traditional Owners of the land the village sits upon. Evelyn Ridge manager John Carrigan introduced the event and said it was a “significant milestone” for the community. “Our very first residents arrived in 2006, and in the years since, Evelyn Ridge has grown into a vibrant, active, and deeply connected village,” he said. Evelyn Ridge is a Keyton Retirement Village and was established in 2006, and residents have settled down within its quaint and comforting grounds ever since.
Also known as the “jewel in the crown”, Mr Carrigan said the sunshine would most certainly have left the village gleaming among the rolling hills of the Yarra Ranges. “It’s quite apt for a day like today, because it’s really hard to argue that we’re not the jewel in the crown on a day like this,” he said. Evelyn Ridge residents, management and committee members donated a “wonderful collection of memories”, including stories, photographs, CDs, calendars, and much more. “It captures everything from the activities and events our groups were involved in to what we were watching on ERTV at the time. It is a snapshot of the community as it was, preserved for those who will come after us,” Mr Carrigan said. Proud Noongar man Tristan “Pancakes” Harris performed the smoking ceremony and a Welcome to Country. Mr Harris said these ceremonies were more like a “house party” than a formal welcoming.
“When you go knock on the door, people answer it and go, ‘Hey, welcome. There’s the toilet, there’s the coffee, there’s the milk.’ And that’s all it really is. “It’s about saying, ‘Welcome to our place’... So when we do these welcome to countries, we’re not just welcoming you, but we’re introducing you to the land as well,” Mr Harris said. One of the village’s first residents, Sylvia Russell, shook Mr Harris’ hand during the ceremony, in what Mr Carrigan described as a “meeting of first peoples”. Mr Carrigan thanked Evelyn Ridge village administrator Kath Foley and resident Tina Disney for organising the event “with dedication and care”. “It’s taken a really long time. It’s been a really involved project, and we’re very, very grateful for their assistance,” he said. Yarra Ranges Council Streeton Ward councillor Jeff Marriot attended the event and said it was
an “honour” to be a part of the 20th anniversary. “This village was envisioned and built not just as a place to live, but as a sanctuary of connection, dignity, and shared joy for those who have given so much to our region,” he said. State Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence attended the ceremony and said it was great to witness the strong connection between the village’s residents. “It’s fantastic that Evelyn Ridge is celebrating 20 years, and many of the residents here have been here for much of that time. It’s a great community; it offers them great social connection and ability to have great friendships in a safe environment here at Evelyn Ridge,” Ms Vallence said. After the ceremony, Mr Harris gifted a painting to the village called “Community Living”. Two “journey tracks” coming in from the painting’s four sides converge in the middle, which symbolises the retirement village. “All tracks lead to this place,” Mr Harris said.
Yarra Ranges residents share their story for World Narcolepsy Day By Oliver Winn Yarra Valley locals living with a condition known as narcolepsy shared their story as part of an international effort to raise awareness for the chronic neurological disorder. It came after World Narcolepsy Day took place on Tuesday 22 September which saw organisations from across the globe take part in advocacy campaigns to better the lives of people living with narcolepsy. The rare sleep disorder is known for causing excessive daytime sleepiness, sleep attacks and cataplexy (the sudden loss of muscle strength caused by emotion). Don Valley resident Amy O’Callaghan was around 11 to 12-years-old when she first started feeling overwhelming exhaustion, brain fog and heavily disrupted sleep. But she was only diagnosed with narcolepsy at 29-years-old. “It was quite difficult getting diagnosed because every time I’d see a new doctor, they would just keep telling me the same thing over and over again. Eventually it just became so disheartening, that I felt like no one was listening to me or taking me seriously,” she said. A lack of awareness around narcolepsy means it can often take up to 10 years to get a diagnosis, despite symptoms normally developing around adolescence. This delay in accessing treatments means people like Ms O’Callaghan go through their for6 MAIL | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
mative years in a groggy, half-awake haze, fighting off accusations of laziness and depression. “It has shaped my life quite significantly that I often wonder had I been diagnosed during my school years, where could I have been now job/ career wise?” she said. Healesville local Christine Earl was diagnosed with narcolepsy seven years ago. She’d always assumed her tiredness was a symptom of depression, which she has dealt with for a large part of her life. But it wasn’t until she began nodding off behind the wheel that she knew something was wrong. “The thing that really got me to do something about it in the end was I was falling asleep while I was driving. I had a couple of close calls, so that was the final thing,” she said. Narcolepsy is estimated to affect around one in 2000 to 5000 Australians, though there’s no official data on its prevalence. It is caused by a deficiency of a neuropeptide called orexin, which is responsible for regulating wakefulness, appetite, mood and addiction. Many think narcolepsy is just being tired and sleeping throughout the day. But it’s more like having a faulty sleep-wake cycle. A helpful analogy is imagining your sleepwake cycle as a switch that’s on when you’re awake, and off when you’re asleep. For people without narcolepsy, this switch stays on during the day and switches off for the night. Narcolepsy is like having a switch that keeps
flickering on and off when it shouldn’t, where sleep constantly spills into wakefulness, bringing on sudden feelings of tiredness. At night, the opposite happens: one constantly wakes up and cannot stay asleep for a prolonged period of time. For Ms Earl, having narcolepsy limits potential job opportunities and makes it harder to deal with the cost of living. “That’s also why I can’t do a job where I’m sitting in front of a computer or anything, because I just can’t sit there; I fall asleep. “There are so many jobs that I can’t do for that sort of reason, so I have to do physical work. Because if I keep going and keep moving, it’s fine; it’s just when I stop,” she said. Ms O’Callaghan’s experience is similar. “Narcolepsy has definitely had a big impact on my work life, making my options very limited as I cannot have a sit down/desk job because I need to keep moving to stay awake and alert. “That’s something that gets me down quite often because the jobs that are most suitable for me are generally the ones that don’t pay too well,” she said. Her social life inevitably takes a hit too — she said it makes it hard to enjoy the little things. “From simple things like wanting to make it through a movie with a friend without falling asleep, enjoying the scenery as a passenger on a road trip without dozing off, staying awake at the table with my family during conversation – these are a few examples of things that affect me
mentally and emotionally more than what people realise,” she said. Like many others living with narcolepsy, Ms O’Callaghan and Ms Earl take dexamphetamine – a common central nervous system stimulant that helps her stay awake during the day. Stimulants have been the first-line treatment for 30 years. But these medications fail to fix the root cause of narcolepsy – a deficiency in orexin. But a new, first-of-its-kind medication known as oveporexton could change that. On 2 April, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) granted priority review for Takeda Pharmaceutical’s application to have the drug put onto the Australian market. Though it’s not a guarantee the treatment will become available in Australia, it’s a step closer to a game-changing medication for people living with narcolepsy like Ms O’Callaghan and Ms Earl. It would not only help address feelings of tiredness and disrupted sleep, but it would also target the second, lesser-known symptom of narcolepsy: cataplexy – the sudden loss of muscle tone caused by emotion such as laughter. In May this year, Sleep Health Foundation board member Dr Linda Schachter said it was a “major step forward” in addressing narcolepsy. “I’ve been a sleep physician for 30 years and this is very exciting, everyone’s very excited. I think all sleep physicians are really excited about this area and so want to be more very involved with it.”
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Locals’ take on racism register By April Stevens A new $2 million Federal Labor Government investment in the Call It Out First Nations Racism Register may give the Yarra Ranges community a clearer picture of local experiences with racism. First established by Sydney’s Jumbunna Institute in March 2022, the register will use the funding to launch an online data dashboard, providing greater public access to reported data and driving local anti-racism action. Thane Garvey, a Healesville local, Indigenous educator, and public speaker, believes the government investment in anti-racism policies is a good first step, though he feels there is still room for growth. Mr Garvey’s initial reaction was relief, alongside an admission that action like this is well overdue. “I do think it’s good, but I do think a bit more could be done, especially when you look at how strong the action against anti-Semitism has been,” he said. “It will allow us to keep track of everything and also prove what’s happening. The Labor Government, if continually in power, will not be able to ignore it.” “We were told the government would look into anti-racism policies in March, after a bomb was thrown in a crowd during an Invasion Day rally in Perth. But it’s still a sigh of relief. Not much has happened yet, but it’s a good start.” When asked about the investment in the register and how the council plans to address local racism while supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, Yarra Ranges Council Director of Communities Leanne Hurst welcomed initiatives designed to combat discrimination.
“Gathering data on experiences of racism helps build a clearer understanding of the prevalence and impacts of racism within our communities,” Ms Hurst said. “This information can support evidence-based advocacy and funding applications, helping to secure resources for initiatives that are community-led, self-determined, and focused on fostering healthy, respectful and inclusive communities.” Ms Hurst said that Yarra Ranges Council remains committed to reconciliation and strengthening the local Indigenous community through its Cultural Diversity Policy, which rejects all forms of racism and discrimination. The council is also a signatory to the Australian Human Rights Commission’s ‘Racism. It Stops With Me’ campaign. However, Mr Garvey has doubts about whether collecting data and funding initiatives is enough to combat rising racist rhetoric. “If you look at the Casey region, and Healesville from a political perspective… It’s been Liberal-centred for a very long time and you can tell,” he said. “I sometimes have real trouble with Healesville. As a town, we are right-winged. “When there’s not much diversity in race, culture or religion… I think they’d really benefit from the register the most, because these are the places where there is racism.” Mr Garvey noted that this applies to all discrimination and that the register ultimately benefits all marginalised groups. He emphasised that while Indigenous-led initiatives are crucial, the responsibility cannot rest solely with First Nations people. For this to be achieved, hard conversations are essential, Mr Garvey said, and having “the cour-
age to stamp it out”. “Having the hard conversations with the people you love, even if you know you have a different opinion, to try to find a common ground. It makes you a great ally because you’re also leaving yourself vulnerable to try and make change, and that’s a courageous thing to do.” Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research at UTS Professor Lindon Coombes said Call It Out’s aim is to “generate evidence to inform anti-racism action and policy development” while supporting First Nations peoples and educating the wider community. Four years after the register launched, the Australian Parliament established a national inquiry in March 2026 into racism, hate, and violence directed towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Public submissions closed in June 2026, and hearings concluded in August. “While we await the committee’s final report, we are not waiting to act. This investment will strengthen the important work of Call It Out and support efforts by the Jumbunna Institute and the National Justice Project to collate rigorous data,” Indigenous Australians Minister Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said. Evidence presented to the inquiry and through Call It Out highlights an increase in racism, both online and in person, particularly following the 2023 Voice referendum. Systemic racism remains embedded in healthcare, education, policing, child protection, and justice systems, while online hate speech continues to impact safety and wellbeing. Since its launch, the Call It Out register has documented hundreds of reports annually, finding that racism is widespread across all states and territories, with negative stereotypes being the
Healesville local Thane Garvey with Senator Penny Wong. (Supplied)
Thane Garvey is an Indigenous educator and public speaker. (Supplied) most common form. “I’ve experienced lots of racism firsthand,” Mr Garvey said. “Booing at my own Welcome to Country ceremonies, although it’s rare, so I am lucky. I see racism on a daily basis, especially on social media. The hate on social media is so prevalent, whether it’s bots or real people, it still hurts.” For First Nations communities, the hope remains that data collection leads beyond documentation to meaningful change. “For anyone that’s experienced racism recently, remember to stay strong. It hurts. We all know it’s painful,” Mr Garvey said. “Remember to support each other and find communities you’re safe in and look after yourself, especially your mental health.”
Summerset Chirnside Park is redefining retirement living. Our independent living villas offer spacious open-plan living that feels fresh, bright and beautifully designed. Choose from two or three bedrooms, and enjoy the peace of mind that the built in safety features provide - from slip resistant flooring to emergency call bells, you’re covered. Once complete, the village centre will boast a range of resort-style facilities, including an indoor pool and spa, café, recreational bowling green, plus much more. This is a village designed to help you get the most out of your retirement - today and in the years ahead. Summerset Chirnside Park is now officially open and our first residents have moved in. Book an appointment with our friendly team to secure your preferred home,* and become a part of this vibrant community. Love the life you choose.
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*Homes are secured by purchase of the licence to occupy and are subject to availability and entry criteria. Rental options not available. Images are indicative only.
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Think retirement redefined
Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | MAIL 7
NEWS
Water play parks opening for spring
Monbulk College’s FIGURE 8: (Back row) Amelia (alto saxophone), Nia (acoustic guitar and vocals), Tahlia (vocals) and Alex (guitar); (front row) Caleb (guitar and keys), Marley (vocals) and Alex (bass). (Stewart Chambers: 577971)
Monbulk College’s FIGURE 8 member Amelia playing alto saxophone. (577971)
L-R: Monbulk College Year 7 students Olive Henderson and Gracie Bly. (Supplied)
Monbulk College Year 10 students Tahlia Herbert and Nia Downes performing in the log cabin. (Supplied)
Hilltop participants performing live at 3MDR radio in Upwey. (577971)
Monbulk College’s FIGURE 8 takes to the airwaves at 3MDR in Upwey to promote the festival. (577971)
Monbulk College Year 7 student Zach Barfett, guitarist, outside the green room before performing on the indoor stage. (Supplied)
Locals can splash into the warmer months ahead at the council’s water play parks this spring. Seville Water Play Park and Warburton Water World will be opening from 19 September, and the Lillydale Lake Splash Park will be opening in time for the summer school holidays. The free to visit water play parks will operate daily from 9am to 6pm, with closing time extended to 7pm during daylight savings. Warburton Water World and the Olinda Pool will be closed on days of Extreme Fire Danger Rating. Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Richard Higgins, said the water play parks are some of Council’s most well-visited areas. “On hot days in the school holidays, people travel from far and wide to meet with friends and play at our water play parks, which is brilliant to see,” he said. “If you’re visiting, remember to park safely and have a back-up option in mind if it’s a busy day. The parks run for nine hours a day, so there’ll always be a good time to enjoy them.” Lillydale Lake Splash Pad will open just prior to the summer holidays this season due to planned upgrade works to improve the reliability and operation of the water play park. On 5 October, the heated Belgrave Outdoor Pool opens for its summer season, with other pools opening later in the year. The Olinda Outdoor Pool will open from 5 December, followed by Healesville and Lilydale pools on 12 December. Cr Higgins encourages locals to visit their nearest pool for a play or a swim. “Swimming is a fantastic way to get active, to play, and to strengthen skills in the water – which can be crucial throughout our lives,” he said. “We have some fantastic pools in the Yarra Ranges – from our indoor facilities servicing communities year-round, to our outdoor pools that thrive on hot summer days.” “Summer will be here before we know it. Until then, Monbulk Aquatic Centre, Jack Hort Memorial Pool and the Yarra Centre are open year-round for swimmers.” Opening hours are weather dependent. Information on opening hours, and the end of the season for each pool is published on the council’s website at yarraranges.vic.gov.au/pools
Hilltop Festival showcases talent By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
The Hilltop crew performing at 3MDR radio. (577971)
Monbulk College’s fourth annual Hilltop Music Festival took place on Sunday, 13 September, bringing the Hills community together for a vibrant day of live music. With more than 200 artists across three stages, the festival captured plenty of memorable moments, from young musicians taking to the stage for the first time to established artists entertaining the crowds. The festival showcased young musicians from Monbulk College, Upwey High School, Emerald Secondary College, Lilydale High School and Wandin North Primary School, among others.
Marley, vocalist with Monbulk College’s FIGURE 8. (577971)
8 MAIL | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
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NEWS
Vanderwolf is ready By Callum Ludwig Independent candidate David Vanderwolf is hard to miss at the moment, often adorned with his self-confessed ‘stupid jumper’ highlighting that he has begun a campaign in Croydon. Mr Vanderwolf has lived in the district since moving back to Melbourne in 2018, living in both Croydon and Croydon South, and thinks it’s really important that the area has an alternative to party politics at this state election. Mr Vanderwolf said he feels a lot of people out there are really frustrated with the system and the way it operates. “I feel it’s important that there’s someone there putting the community first as a community independent does, free from party politics, free from vested interests,” he said. “Where I started heading in the direction of independent politics was watching people like David Pocock standing up to vested interests in a way that party politicians just don’t seem to be either willing or able to do. “It’s inspiring to see someone do that and for me, for a long time, I felt like the community was being ignored and that decisions were being made not necessarily in the community’s best interest.” Mr Vanderwolf is an active volunteer at his kids’ local school, joined and helped the campaign for the Voices of Deakin candidate Jess Ness in last year’s federal election and has recently joined the Croydon - Yarra Valley Toastmasters Club and The Foothills Foundation. Mr Vanderwolf said he has learnt a few things from the Deakin campaign and his own campaign so far. “I think the thing that stood out for me, there tends to be this narrative that people are disinterested and disengaged, and we’re all a bit selfish, and I don’t think that is in any way true,” he said. “The conversations that I’ve had on that campaign and, and on this campaign show that we do care, we are interested, and we’re willing to have that conversation if, if it’s opened up to us “I find you’ll be door-knocking an area and someone will say, ‘I’ve lived here for 20, 30 years and I’ve never been door-knocked, this is fantastic’ and people will come to the conversation perhaps a little tentative and talk themselves down, not quite sure how to have the conversation, but by the end of the chat, they’ve opened up about what’s important to them and what they want to see.” Mr Vanderwolf has been conducting an ongoing community survey via his website dave4croydon.com.au to ensure he can continue to hear from Croydon voters what matters to them. Mr Vanderwolf said the key things he has heard from the community are about the cost of living, crime and housing. “Cost of living is obviously a pretty broad topic so when I’m asking people what is it specifically, the main one that’s coming up is the grocery bill and in that space, I know from
1 July we’ve had this anti-price gouging legislation come in so I think we need to monitor that really closely to see if it is doing what we hope it does and how effective it is,” he said. “Victoria Police hosted a neighborhood policing forum recently and the report back was that on the whole, things are tracking well here, particularly compared to other areas of Melbourne, but where they are seeing a concerning increase is in crimes related to cost of living so we, as the community, are now experiencing some of the downside of cost of living pressures. “There’s a section of the community where (housing) affordability is a real concern, but on the other side there is concern within our community, particularly with Croydon being earmarked as a potential activity center, around changes to the planning system that allows the state government to override local decisions. “I think for our district, it’s about finding that balance between the housing stock coming online that delivers on affordability and meets the local need, but that ensures that our housing supply is diversifying in a way that’s going to meet our need into the future and we’re not just duplicating the existing housing stock.” Croydon voters can follow Mr Vanderwolf’s campaign at ‘Dave for Croydon’ on Facebook and Instagram, contact him at dave4croydon. com.au/contact or hello@daveforcroydon. com.au or look out for his ‘stupid jumper’ with his own face adorned upon it in the street. Statewide, Mr Vanderwolf also said integrity, how the GST is shared among states and being free from vested interests are other important issues to him. “Integrity is another one that’s coming up a lot locally, one of the big focuses for me is right now we only have temporary electoral funding and donation laws in place as back in 2018, the major parties teamed up to introduce legislation that was basically designed to entrench their own power and that legislation was so unfair, it was ruled unconstitutional by the High Court,” he said. “Right now, the way the GST is shared amongst the states is being reviewed, if that review goes the wrong way, it’s a significant risk for Victoria, on current figures, we’re probably talking somewhere between one and two billion dollars per year being allocated away from Victoria, creating a real issue for our budget. “I feel there’s a conflict for local state MPs when the decision that’s been made around the GST is ultimately federal parties chasing marginal seats in Perth so it’s difficult for major party state MPs to speak up on this issue without causing issues for their federal colleagues, and as an independent, I don’t have that issue and I can speak up loudly on behalf of Victorians for this issue.” Mr Vanderwolf also said his campaign is not backed by Climate 200 or any other lobby group or political party.
David Vanderwolf is the independent candidate for Croydon. (Callum Ludwig: 579941)
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ADVERTORIAL
Melbourne Country show comes to the Suburbs Get ready for a fantastic celebration of country life, family fun and entertainment when the Melbourne Country Show comes to Caribbean Park from 25 September to 4 October. Perfect for families and visitors of all ages, the show will feature exciting attractions, live entertainment, farm animals, interactive activities and plenty of opportunities to experience the sights and sounds of a traditional country show. Children can get up close with animals, discover more about country life and enjoy a fun filled day away from the screens. From entertaining performances and animal encounters to activities for the whole family, there will be plenty to see and do throughout the event. The Melbourne Country Show is also a great opportunity to enjoy quality family time during the school holidays, with something to keep visitors of all ages entertained.
Easy to Get There Getting to the show is easy, with parking available at Caribbean Park for those travelling by car. Public transport is also a convenient option,
with bus routes including the 693, 753 and 901 SmartBus stopping on Ferntree Gully Road near Caribbean Drive, providing access to the Caribbean Gardens and Business Park precinct.
Make a Weekend of It Visitors travelling to the show can make their trip even more enjoyable with a special accommodation offer from Hyatt Place Melbourne Caribbean Park. Guests can receive 20 per cent off the standard rate, with the offer valid only for stays during the Melbourne Country Show event dates, 25 September to 4 October. Whether you are visiting for the day or planning a longer school holiday getaway, the Melbourne Country Show offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy country style entertainment, animals, activities and family fun right here in Melbourne. Gather the family, invite your friends and experience a memorable day out at the Melbourne Country Show. For tickets, event information and updates, visit the Melbourne Country Show website.
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Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | MAIL 9
OPINION
Sweetly chaotic fantasy Years ahead of becoming the bestselling author and fantasy legend that he is today, Garth Nix visited London in 1983 at the formative age of 19. “It was during this time that I decided I wanted to try to become a writer,” writes Nix at the end of his fantasy adventure The Left-Handed Booksellers of London. Set in a slightly alternate London in 1983, the multiple-award-winning novel tells the story of 18-year-old art student Susan, who travels from Bath to London in search of her father, whom she has never met and knows very little about. While on this quest, Susan encounters an extended family of magical fighting booksellers who police the mythical and legendary Old World when it intrudes on the modern world. Among these are young, dashing and lefthanded Merlin and his intellectual, composed and right-handed sister Vivien. The siblings are
PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN determined to find out who or what is behind the death of their mother, but their investigation overlaps with Susan’s in intriguing ways. They soon realise Susan is the target of a series of powerful yet mysterious attacks by mortal and supernatural beings, and have to enlist the help of
other booksellers to protect her. All booksellers in this story have their differing strengths and gifts. In addition to collecting, restoring, conserving and selling books, their magical powers reach across time and dimension, with the left-handed in charge of fighting, the right-handed researching and strategising, and the evenhanded being the most distinguished and knowledgeable. These unique characters enrich the story and make for a delightfully beguiling read. One of the most memorable bits about the booksellers is that when they are upset, they need to read quietly, or write poems. For example, upon hearing the news of a colleague’s death, one bookseller “went and made a kind of pyramid out of Dickens and Trollope second or later editions – he didn’t disturb the firsts – climbed in, and has refused to talk or come out”. Meanwhile, the numerous creatures and en-
CARTOON
tities drawn from British folklore, legends and myths give the novel a distinct Tolkien and even Pratchett vibe. Not only are the Gog and Mogog at the southern entrance of Melbourne’s Royal Arcade mentioned, but the sweetly chaotic array of events remind readers of some of the great Doctor Who episodes. This reviewer particularly enjoys exploring all the books, authors, poems and art works discussed among the booksellers. Garth Nix will be part of the “Hypothetically Speaking...” speculative fiction panel at the 2026 Dandenong Ranges Literary Festival, along with Karen Comer, Jane Rawson and Rose Michael. He will also join contemporary writer and poet Declan Fry for a conversation on his latest book Massif. Find more details here: dandyrangeslitfest.net/tickets.
Resident Evil review: Too camp
Resident Evil Starring Austin Abrams, Paul Walter Hauser and Zach Cherry MA15+ 3.5/5
Stories of the stage brought to life Australian Museum of Performing Arts Bringing stories of the stage to life, AMPA celebrates the breath of Australia’s extraordinary performance history through cataloguing exhibitions, while also featuring the best from international institutions. In December 2025 the museum opened with the groundbreaking exhibition Diva, touring from London’s Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A). Encore! 50 objects, 50 Years, One Collection The new exhibition is on display until 9 May 2027. Featured pieces include the legendary gold hot pants worn by Kylie Minogue in the Spinning Around music video, the original neon-red L’Amour sign Baz Lurmann and Catherine Martin created for Opera Australia’s La Boheme. Midnight Oil drummer Rob Hirt’s beloved drum kit and stage costumes worn by the likes of Olivia Newton-John, Hugh Jackman and more. Fifty iconic objects ansd costumes have been particularly chosen for the exhibition, in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Australian Performing Arts Museum Collection, Australia’s largest specialist collection of circus, dance, music, opera, and theatre which preserves more than 850,000 objects at Art Centre Melbourne. Other objects include the original 1874 handwritten script of Struck Oil, the breathtaking production from the entrepreneurial theatre impresario James
10 MAIL | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
Kemp’s curtain call Cassius Williamson, who established Australia’s dominant theatre management company. A set model of a Carlton terrace house from the Melbourne Theatre Company’s 1995 production of Ray Lawler’s Summer of the Seventeenth Doll represents one of Australia’s most ground-breaking plays. Karralyka Theatre Alone but All One - Katie Noonan A delicate offering, it features Katie’s Piano and a string quartet as the sole accompaniment to her exquisite voice. Recorded live in her lounge room on Gubbi Gubbi Country, this stripped-back album represents a quiet turning inward – a return to something essential, honest and deeply moving. Season: Friday 9 October at 7.30pm. Gemco Theatre
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Ordinary Days: A Musical From one of musical theatre’s most exciting new composers comes Ordinary Days, a refreshingly honest and funny musical about real connections in the city that never sleeps (probably should at some point). Ordinary Days tells the story of four young New Yorkers whose lives intersect as they search for fulfilment, happiness, love and cabs. Through a score of vibrant and memorable songs, their experiences ring startlingly true to life. Ordinary Days is an original musical for anyone who’s ever struggled to appreciate the simple things in a complex place. With an equal sense of humour and poignancy, it celebrates how 8.3 million individuals’ stories combine in unexpected ways to make New York City such a unique and extraordinary home. Season: 6 November. Eltham Little Theatre Lend Me a Tenor This is a case of mistaken identities and unexpected romance. It’s 1934 and opera virtuoso Tito Morelli is about to revive Othello. When Tito unexpectedly becomes incapacitated, a suitable replacement must be found. Season: 16-26 November.
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Set during the events of the game Resident Evil 2, Zack Creggor’s new Resident Evil film sees hapless medical courier Bryan (Austin Abrams) transport a vital package through zombie-infested Raccoon City, and it’s a fun, suspenseful horror movie bogged down by gags. Creggor’s Resident Evil moves at a swift pace, features several tense, grisly setpieces, and places greater emphasis on survival horror – struggling against macabre threats with scarce resources and bleak odds – than Paul W.S. Anderson’s actionfocused Resident Evil films. In this respect, Creggor’s Resident Evil is the most faithful adaptation of the games yet, even as it tells a new story instead of directly adapting the games. With its snowy environment, tentacled creatures, themes of assimilation and possession, and the deep, baleful score reminiscent of Ennio Morricone, this is also a much better The Thing follow-up than what we got in 2011. Camp is an integral element of the Resident Evil franchise, from the inadvertent camp of poor English dialogue in the first game (“You were almost a Jill sandwich!”) to the overt camp of Resident Evil 4’s squeaky-voiced dwarf Napoleon villain and Village’s buxom giant vampire mistress villain. Even so, Creggor’s Resident Evil massively overdoes the comedy. The first act’s dark humour speaks for itself, as Bryan and other characters act so blase around an injured woman who is clearly dangerously unwell, but the rest of the comedy feels forced. Moreover, quippy commentary fits a macho stereotype like game protagonist Leon Kennedy better than a loser like Bryan (and Bryan’s constant swearing is tiresome). Hope generally has more organic humour while being much funnier. A middling video game movie in a year with a surprising abundance of them, Resident Evil is visceral and exciting but too goofy for its own good.
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NEWS
Natalie Adams set to run By Callum Ludwig Natalie Adams has put herself forward as the One Nation candidate for the North-Eastern Metropolitan region. A Bulleen resident of 20 years, she also has ties to extended family across Blackburn, Doncaster, Ivanhoe, Epping and South Morang. Ms Adams said her connection to this part of Melbourne is both longstanding and deeply personal. “My boys played tennis at the former Boroondara Tennis Centre in Bulleen before it was demolished for the North East Link project., my eldest plays soccer at the Veneto Club, my middle son played AFL for Ivanhoe and my youngest is part of a theatre group in Templestowe,” she said. “Like so many local families, we have also spent years enjoying the region’s parks, trails and bike paths, and have seen firsthand the impact major infrastructure works can have on the places communities value. “This isn’t a region I’ve come to know through politics, this is where we have raised our family, operated our business and built our lives.” Ms Adams helped run a labour hire business with her husband, which supplied labour to the family telecommunications business in Ringwood, but which has entered liquidation over the last two years. Ms Adams said running a small business has given her a very practical understanding of how government decisions affect ordinary people. “When taxes, regulation, energy prices and compliance costs increase, they do not remain figures on a government spreadsheet - they affect whether a business can employ another person, invest in equipment or simply keep its doors open,” she said. “At the same time, as a mother, I have become increasingly concerned about the
direction of our education system and the growing divide between what many families expect from schools and what is being delivered.” “I chose One Nation because it is prepared to speak plainly about issues the major parties too often avoid. It supports small business, parental rights, stronger communities, responsible government spending and putting the interests of Australians first.” Ms Adams identified the cost of living, community safety, rushed developments, the disruption from the North East Link project as key issues in her region. Ms Adams said eventually, she realised debating people on Instagram wasn’t going to fix Victoria so she decided to put her hand up and do something about it. “Families are paying more for groceries, electricity, housing, insurance and transport, while small businesses are being squeezed by rising costs from every direction… crime does not stop at municipal boundaries, and residents deserve a visible and properly resourced police presence, meaningful consequences for repeat offenders and confidence that the justice system is protecting law-abiding people,” she said. “We are also seeing major developments, including data centres, being pursued through state-level approval processes rather than ordinary council planning channels… developments of that scale should involve meaningful local scrutiny, and communities should have a genuine opportunity to understand and respond to what is being proposed. “The North East Link has also caused years of disruption, the loss of valued community facilities and significant increases in cost, residents deserve transparency about what they are paying for and proper accountability for how major projects are managed.” Ms Adams made the plunge into running
One Nation’s North-Eastern Metropolitan candidate Natalie Adams. (Supplied) for politics after ‘seeing first-hand the shift in what and how our children are taught’, while also believing Victoria’s financial management, action on crime, relief for households and small businesses and greater accountability on how taxpayer’s money is spent as key issues in the state. Ms Adams said schools should provide children with structure, clear boundaries
and a strong grounding in reading, writing and mathematics. “They should teach children how to think, not what to think, and parents should never be treated as an inconvenience or excluded from important matters concerning their children,” she said. “I also believe our education system should foster pride in being Australian, our children should understand what earlier generations, including their own grandparents and great-grandparents, worked to build - the sacrifices they made and the freedoms they fought to protect, that means teaching our history honestly, recognising both our achievements and our mistakes. “We can acknowledge where Australia has fallen short while still being proud of our country and taking responsibility for its future. Children need knowledge, stability, resilience and age-appropriate education, with parents treated as partners in their children’s education.” Ms Adams will be attending local fairs, festivals and community events in the leadup to the election where voters can speak to her. Ms Adams said if you see her, please come over and say hello - even if you do not agree with her. “I want to hear directly from residents about what is happening in their streets, schools, businesses and communities,” she said. “I cannot effectively represent people unless I understand what is affecting them, so tell me what is working, what is not and what you believe needs to change. “I am not entering politics to build a political career. I am doing it because, while I can see plenty that needs fixing, I remain optimistic about Victoria’s future - and I want to ensure the people I represent have a voice in shaping it.”
12902823-CB39-26
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Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | MAIL 11
NEWS
Melina Bath is seeking re-election for the Nationals in Eastern Victoria. (Supplied)
Bath seeking a third term
12794018-EB34-25
By Callum Ludwig
12 MAIL | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
Melina Bath is back to contest the Eastern Victoria region for the Nationals. Growing up on a dairy farm in Fish Creek, the qualified secondary school maths and science teacher and former small business owner has been representing Eastern Victoria since 2015. Ms Bath said she believes this prior experience has held her in really good stead in Victorian Parliament. “Many of the things that I learnt both growing up,in small business and as a teacher are around serving your community, serving people and understanding how people operate and really I’ve carried a lot of the skills and understandings from that through into this role,” she said. That can include listening really intently to people, sometimes I think members of parliament can be silent only in the intervening times while they’re thinking about something to say. “I’ve found, particularly in small business and then working in education, it’s really important to understand where the person in front of you is at, what their needs are, what their challenges are and how you can assist them, whether it be in small business or in the classroom or with parents.” Ms Bath is also a life member of the Leongatha Knights Soccer Club, where she served as the secretary for ten years. Ms Bath said she believes the Liberal-National coalition is well-suited for serving in Victoria’s upper house. “My passion for regional Victoria runs deep and this area, the Eastern Victoria region, it starts at Mornington, it goes up to the seat of Evelyn and Puffing Billy and all of your fantastic area up there, and then all the way to the New South Wales border to Mallacoota,” she said. “So it’s a really large footprint and I have around five hundred thousand constituents so clearly some people will know me as a household name and others would not know who I am, that’s the blessing and the curse of being in the upper house. “You tend to get to know some issues and some people very well and others not…but my (Liberal) colleague Renee Heath often does more of the western side of our electorate and I tend to, but not solely, tend to do the Gippsland and the eastern side a little more.” Ms Bath is currently the shadow minister for Public Land Management and Aboriginal Affairs and The Nationals’ Whip in the upper house, having also previously served as the shadow minister
for Regional Development, Local Government and as the shadow parliamentary secretary for Public Land Use, Education and Volunteers. Ms Bath said healthcare, roads and land management are the key issues for her in Eastern Victoria. “Health is a key issue that is highly pressurized in the regions even more than in Melbourne… once you ring that ambulance and wait for that ambulance to come in the Yarra Ranges, and this is indicative of across Gippsland as well, you’re waiting 18 and a half minutes for Code One and only reaching those response times of 15 minutes 55 per cent of the time, the statewide average is about 65 percent of the time,” she said. “Virtually anywhere you go there are shocking potholes… but roads, they’re not a luxury, they’re a necessity and over the last decade there has been maintenance funding cut, the government is building roads in Melbourne, but Eastern Victoria across the board there has been maintenance funding cut and there is less maintenance being done. “Part of my policies that I’m soon to be releasing focuses back on more about active management of our forest estate and that also includes making sure that we are better bushfire prepared…if we look at the Dandenongs, Yarra Ranges, that Pakenham area, it’s a heavily wooded area, but it’s also a heavily populated area and we need to do more to get this balance right because there are literally lives at stake if we’re not going to do more prepared burns ahead of time in the cooler months under great supervision.” Ms Bath encouraged anyone interested in speaking to her ahead of the election to visit her website melinabath.com.au, look her up on Facebook, or email her at melina.bath@parliament. vic.gov.au. Ms Bath said the Nationals are unadulterated in their focus and the Coalition is ready to govern. “We don’t have to think ‘Is this good for metropolitan Melbourne?’, our sole focus is on regional Victoria and peri-urban area, anything outside the tram tracks which have been an overwhelmingly significant focus of the Labor government,” she said. “The PBO (Parliamentary Budget Office) at our request has done some study over the last three or four years, and we’re 25 per cent of the population in regional Victoria, but we’re only getting 11 to 12 per cent of the infrastructure spend. “We’ve got good structures, and that should provide confidence to people, we are always willing to listen, always willing to learn, but going forward, we have a strong plan and a strong team.”
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ASTON LODGE CONTEMPORARY LIVING WITH VALLEY VIEWS mailcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 13
PROPERTY OF THE WEEK
ASTON LODGE - CONTEMPORARY LIVING WITH VALLEY VIEWS BURSTING with natural light and showcasing beautiful views across the nearby valley, this character filled family home delivers an exceptional blend of space, versatility and lifestyle appeal. Thoughtfully designed and crafted, the home offers a flexible floorplan with plenty of room for the entire family to spread out, relax and entertain. Beautiful hardwood timber floors and double glazed windows flow throughout the main level, creating warmth and continuity as you move through the home. Spacious open plan living and dining seamlessly adjoin an impressive kitchen, where an abundance of windows fill the space with sunlight and draws your attention to the leafy surrounds outside. Hydronic heating warms throughout as well as multiple split systems, making any day cosy plus a 4kw solar system has been added for extra convenience. The kitchen is both stylish and highly functional with its stone benchtops and soft close cabinetry, offering an outstanding combination of storage and workspace, with a walk-in pantry and substantial island bench. Whether preparing a family meal or entertaining guests, this is just the right space to bring everyone together. Complementing the open floorplan is a wonderful secondary living area - a peaceful retreat perfectly suited to a reading nook, music space or simply somewhere to sit back and enjoy the sunshine. It is a truly magical spot to unwind. All four bedrooms are conveniently positioned on this level. The generous main bedroom is a private retreat, complete with an adjoining additional room, an incredible walkin robe and a spacious ensuite. The remaining bedrooms enjoy their own sense of privacy and are serviced by the impressive resort style main bathroom. Downstairs, the flexibility continues with an additional space that can be adapted to suit your family’s needs. Whether you require another bedroom, home office, teenagers’ retreat or additional living area, the options are exceptional - a rare feature that adds genuine versatility to the home. Even the oversized laundry makes an impression, combining excellent storage with thoughtful design. Every aspect of this home has been carefully considered to make family life easier and more enjoyable. Outside, two distinct entertaining areas provide the perfect setting to enjoy the outdoors throughout the seasons. The spacious undercover deck is an ideal place to entertain, taking in the beautiful valley views, while the lower patio offers a peaceful spot for an afternoon cuppa surrounded by the lush garden. Speaking of the garden, green thumbs will be delighted by the abundance of mature plantings, established greenery and year round colour. Multiple sheds provide excellent storage for tools, equipment and family toys, while the generous grounds offer plenty of space to enjoy the serenity of this beautiful setting. Adding further practicality is the oversized
double garage, conveniently positioned under the roofline and complete with workbench space. The location is equally appealing, with Belgrave South Primary School and local
shops approximately 1km away, while a bus route is just metres from your door. Surrounded by a welcoming local community and the natural beauty of the hills, this is a wonderful opportunity to secure a lifestyle
property where space, comfort and tranquillity come together. A truly special family home offering an exceptional lifestyle in a beautiful setting - your inspection is a must. ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 2 The Crescent, BELGRAVE HEIGHTS Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,100,000 - $1,200,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442 and Jonathan Arad 0490 393 328, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 9754 6888
14 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
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HOME FOCUS
COASTAL LIVING IN THE HEART OF MARTHA COVE PERFECTLY positioned within the sought-after Martha Cove precinct of Safety Beach, this beautifully presented four-bedroom, twobathroom home delivers relaxed coastal living just moments from the shoreline, marina, parks and local dining. Set on an easy-care 460sqm, it offers generous family spaces, effortless entertaining and an enviable Mornington Peninsula lifestyle. An undercover entry welcomes you inside, where three carpeted bedrooms each feature built-in robes and ceiling fans. These are serviced by the stylish central family bathroom, complete with stone benchtops, a generous bathtub and separate toilet. The well-appointed laundry provides excellent functionality with a timber benchtop and overhead cabinetry. The master bedroom offers a private retreat with a walk-in robe and ensuite finished with stone benchtops, creating a comfortable space away from the main living zones. At the rear of the home, the floorplan opens into a bright and airy kitchen, living and dining area designed to bring everyone together. The contemporary kitchen features stone benchtops, a generous island bench, gas cooktop, dishwasher, large pantry and ample storage, making it equally suited to everyday meals and entertaining. Two separate living areas provide plenty of room for the family to spread out, including a carpeted lounge and a second living space with split-system heating and cooling. Gas ducted heating throughout the home ensures comfort during the cooler months. Sliding doors from the dining area open to the undercover entertaining area and fully fenced rear yard, where a combination of grass and concrete creates a practical, low-maintenance outdoor space. Adding a truly unique touch, glow stones embedded within the concrete come to life after dark, creating the effect of a starry night underfoot and adding a little magic to evenings spent outdoors. There is plenty of space for entertaining, children and pets, while a double garage completes the property. The location is where this home truly shines. Walk to the Beach and dog beach, local parks, Martha Cove Marina and Martha’s Table Restaurant & Bar, with the wider Mornington Peninsula waiting to be explored. Situated at the base of Mount Martha on the eastern shores of Port Phillip Bay, Martha Cove combines marina living with everything that makes the Peninsula so appealing. With direct access to Port Phillip Bay, a protected harbour and easy access to beaches, wineries, restaurants and coastal attractions, this is an opportunity to embrace a lifestyle that feels like a holiday every day. 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: 34 Seahaven Way, SAFETY BEACH Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,000,000 - $1,100,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Bethany Sullivan 0438 844 968, BELL REAL ESTATE EMERALD mailcommunity.com.au Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 15
HOME FOCUS
FAMILY LIVING IN A FABULOUS WALK-TO-EVERYTHING TUCKED away in the heart of Gembrook, this spacious and versatile family home offers the best of both worlds, a peaceful country-style living with the convenience of shops, cafes, and schools just a short stroll away. Set on a generous 1001sqm block, this property has everything you need for a relaxed and comfortable lifestyle. Step inside through the undercover entry into a warm and inviting lounge, where timber floors and a split system provide year-round comfort. The open-plan kitchen and dining area is designed for effortless family living, featuring a gas cooktop, electric oven, large pantry, and plenty of bench space for meal prep and entertaining. Down the hall, you’ll find a beautifully updated main bathroom with a separate toilet, a large laundry, and a dedicated study/work-from-home space ideal for modern living. The master bedroom with built-in robes is positioned at the front of the home, offering a quiet retreat. Upstairs, two additional carpeted bedrooms with built-in robes provide plenty of space for the kids, along with a fantastic playroom/teen retreat that opens onto a private back deck, the perfect spot to unwind and take in the views of the lush backyard. Outside, the huge 10m x 7m shed is a standout feature, complete with plumbing, roof beams, a generator plug, rear roller door and even a wood fire heater, a dream space for tradies, hobbyists, or those in need of extra storage. Plus, the 6.6kW solar system helps keep energy costs down. The fully fenced backyard is a paradise for kids and pets, featuring a raised sandpit and plenty of open space to run, play, and explore. Also, a second shed with a concrete floor and power. This is the perfect opportunity to secure a spacious, family-friendly home in a prime location. Don’t miss your chance, homes like this don’t last long! 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: 15 Main Street, GEMBROOK Description: 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 4 garage Price: $750,000 - $825,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Aaron Day 0407 365 994 or Brennan Mileto 0422 996 451, BELL REAL ESTATE, EMERALD
16 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
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P 5968 6222 311-313 Main Street Emerald
14 Agnes Street Gembrook
$1,050,000 - $1,150,000
180 Evans Road Cockatoo
$1,900,000 - $2,100,000
Spacious & Stunning Family Living with a Beautiful Rural Outlook!
A Remarkable Lifestyle Estate on 53 Acres
Set on 4,053sqm in peaceful Gembrook, this beautifully presented 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom brick home offers relaxed country living less than 2km from town, with a school bus stop at the end of the street. The light-filled open-plan kitchen, living & dining area features stone benchtops, expansive island, electric cooking, dishwasher, farmhouse sink & servery window to the outdoor entertaining area. A walk-through butler’s pantry/laundry adds excellent storage & a second sink. A woodfire, ducted heating & cooling ensure year-round comfort, while a second living area provides added family flexibility. Three bedrooms feature new carpet & built-in robes, while the privately positioned master includes an ensuite & lounge area. Outside, enjoy an undercover verandah & entertaining area overlooking the picturesque rural surrounds & distant views, plus a single garage & solar system.
Privately positioned on approximately 53 acres in Cockatoo, this exceptional straw bale residence combines architectural character, luxury & thoughtful energy-efficient design. Polished concrete floors, high ceilings & double glazing enhance the impressive interiors, while the designer kitchen features textured granite benchtops, Gaggenau ovens, BORA cooking, teppanyaki grill, Miele dishwasher & a fully equipped butler’s pantry. Open-plan living & dining centres around a doublesided woodfire that acts as a heat sink, complemented by an indoor water feature assisting with natural cooling. 3 bedrooms, family bathroom, theatre room & home office. Upstairs, the private master retreat features a balcony, dressing room, lounge/nursery & luxurious ensuite. Outside, fenced paddocks, a picturesque creek, 4-bay powered machinery shed & woodshed.
Samantha Scott M 0438 680 032
Aaron Day M 0407 365 994
4
380 Jameson Road Hoddles Creek
A
2
Brennan Mileto M 0422 996 451
B 1 C
$1,375,000 - $1,475,000
5
390 Gem-Launching Pl Rd Launching Place
A
2
B 6 C
$1,650,000 - $1,725,000
37 Acres of Opportunity with Two Fully Self-Contained Homes.
The Complete Acreage Lifestyle – Two Homes on 11 Acres.
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.
Set across approximately 11 acres, this impressive lifestyle property offers exceptional versatility with two separate residences, seven fenced paddocks & outstanding infrastructure. The substantial main residence features five bedrooms, including four with ensuites, a well-appointed kitchen with gas cooking, dishwasher & breakfast bar, spacious living & dining areas, plantation shutters, woodfire & split systems. An undercover verandah wraps around three sides, leading to the solar-heated chlorine swimming pool. The separate two-bedroom residence includes built-in robes, lounge, family bathroom & undercover entertaining area, ideal for extended family or guests. Outside, an 11m x 13m barn with 15amp power, a double garage, double carport, separate studio, generator plug & double stables/shelter & seven fenced paddocks.
Aaron Day M 0407 365 994
Brennan Mileto M 0422 996 451
Brennan Mileto M 0422 996 451
5
A
4
B 2 C
Aaron Day M 0407 365 994
7
A
5
B 10 C
bellrealestate.com.au mailcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 17
HOME FOCUS
COUNTRY SOUL, ARCHITECTURAL STYLE AND VIEWS 2.7 HECTARES, architecturally unique home, pool, pool house, shed and stunning Mt Dandenong sunset views. There are properties that offer a home, and then there are properties that offer a way of life. Set amidst 2.7 hectares of gently undulating land in a peaceful Cockatoo setting, this architecturally unique residence is where contemporary style meets country freedom — a place to breathe, entertain, unwind and enjoy the very best of both worlds. From the moment you step inside, the home feels wonderfully light, bright and connected to its surroundings. Expansive walls of glass draw the magnificent views towards Mt Dandenong deep into the living spaces, creating a beautiful sense of space and bringing the ever-changing landscape into everyday life. Multiple living areas provide flexibility for relaxed family living, quiet retreats or effortless entertaining, while the central, well-appointed kitchen forms the heart of the home. And when it comes to entertaining, the fabulous dining area offers the most memorable of views, ideal to share with family and friends. Four bedrooms provide comfortable accommodation, with the main bedroom enjoying the luxury of a walk-in robe and ensuite. Outside, the lifestyle continues. A sparkling solar-heated salt-water pool and dedicated pool house create an enviable entertaining zone — the perfect place for summer afternoons, weekend gatherings and lazy days in the sun. It truly is an entertainer’s dream. For those who crave space for hobbies, equipment, vehicles or a little country enterprise, the 12m x 9m powered shed, complete with concrete floor, is an outstanding bonus. Two cleared paddocks provide further versatility, while the carport, cleverly positioned beneath the home’s roofline, makes unloading the shopping or arriving home in all weather wonderfully convenient. And the setting? Peaceful, private and quintessentially country, yet close enough to Cockatoo to enjoy the everyday conveniences of town. This is country living without giving up style. A place where the mornings begin with views, the weekends revolve around the pool, there is room for the kids to roam, the shed can house every project imaginable, and entertaining friends feels completely natural. If your dream is a little bit of country, a lot of style and plenty of room to live life your way — this could be the one. **** OFFERS CLOSING Tuesday 22 September at 4pm, unless sold prior.**** ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 335 Evans Road, COCKATOO Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 4 garage Price: $1,190,000 - $1,300,000. OFFERS CLOSING Tuesday 22September at 4pm, unless sold prior Inspect: By appointment Contact: Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 and Caiti Ellis 0493 136 937, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL REAL ESTATE, 9754 6111
18 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
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Ranges TRANQUIL SETTING
BELGRAVE 6 COLOMBO ROAd CHARMING RENOVATED RETREAT
WALK TO TOWN
$830,000 - $880,000 3A 2B 4C
Surrounded by a beautiful, treed outlook & set on a 1/4acre (approx), this charming Western Red Cedar split-level home offers an inviting blend of character, comfort & modern living. Freshly painted & renovated throughout, the home features light-filled open-plan living & dining, soaring cathedral ceilings, expansive windows, sliding doors to deck, timber floorboards, modern updated kitchen & laundry, wood fire, terraced rear yard, raised vegetable beds, paved BBQ & entertaining area and a sealed driveway.
Jan Brewster 0409 558 805
9754 6111
rangesfn.com.au mailcommunity.com.au
We put you first
UpwEY 66 MAST GULLy ROAd FAMILY LIFESTYLE ON 1/4 ACRE
$1,150,000 -$1,250,000 3A 2B 4C
****Wednesday 30th of September @ 4pm, unless sold prior**** Tucked away in one of Upwey’s most desirable pockets, this beautifully presented home is all about relaxed family living, generous space & unique lifestyle. Offering an impressive master suite with a luxurious spa bath & WIR, spacious, light-filled living & dining areas with a feature bar, new hot water system, new heating & cooling systems alongside recent FTTP NBN upgrade, established gardens, secure yard, decking and front verandah.
Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522
‘We Put You First’
Erin Davies 0494 175 410
1660 Burwood Highway, Belgrave Shop 2/24 McBride St, Cockatoo Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 19
HOME FOCUS
LUXURY, STYLE AND CLASS ON OVER ONE ACRE AN exceptional and luxurious home presented to perfection and situated on over 1 acre of land, offering a quiet semi rural lifestyle in a peaceful and private setting. The home is beautifully presented throughout and offers the growing family loads of space. Boasting 4 bedrooms all with built in robes including a walk in robe and ensuite in the main bedroom, plus a study/office or optional 5th bedroom. Substantial living areas with a huge family room plus a separate living, dining and meals area. The open plan kitchen is sure to impress with style and class in all aspects with quality appliances and fixtures with ample bench and cupboard space. A functional and family friendly floorplan offers plenty of room and privacy for the largest of families. Outside is just as impressive with over 1 acre to explore and enjoy with covered veranda’s and a large open entertaining area, a double carport and extra large shedding with plenty of parking space for large trucks, caravans and trailers. A fantastic property in a glorious location offering a superb relaxed lifestyle, a home that it sure to please and a great place to call home. ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 195 Britannia Creek Road, WESBURN Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 8 garage Price: $1,250,000 - $1,370,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: David Carroll 0419 539 320, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION, 5967 1277
20 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
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P 5966 2530
3407 Warburton Highway, Warburton
23 Kent Street, Warburton
$700,000 - $770,000
P 5967 1277
2457 Warburton Highway, Yarra Junction
45 English Street, Seville
$1,250,000
Alpine Glamour! Beautifully Crafted, BRAND NEW HOME
Family Comfort and Style Close to Town
Perched proudly in a quiet and highly appealing position, this exceptional three-bedroom, twobathroom residence brings new age glamour to Warburton. The open-plan living and dining zone are the heart of the home, with stunning colour selections, refined décor and an abundance of natural light creating an effortlessly elegant setting. The kitchen is a showpiece, centered around a striking butcher-block bench that will delight even the most discerning home chef. Engineered timber flooring flows beneath your feet, adding warmth and texture, while expansive views towards Mount Little Joe provide a spectacular alpine backdrop. The master suite is equally inviting, bathed in natural light and finished with a glamorous walk-in robe. Two further bedrooms and a beautifully appointed bathroom provide flexibility for guests, family or the ultimate weekend escape.
Just a few years old and ready and waiting for a new family to enjoy. A functional and flexible floorplan offering 4 bedrooms all with built in robes including an ensuite and walk in robe in the main bedroom. Ideally spread over 2 levels offering spacious living and lounge areas with ample space to accommodate the growing family. Sit back relax and enjoy the colourful surrounds from the covered balcony - it’s the ideal spot to unwind and recharge. Fantastic kitchen area with a breakfast bar, big walk in pantry and quality appliances with loads of bench and cupboard space. A separate meals/ dining area and an under cover entertaining/alfresco area opens up more living space to make the most of outdoor living. The kids and pets will love the back yard sitting on approx. 1048sqm with loads of space to run around and enjoy. A fantastic property in a great location.
Rebecca Doolan M 0401 832 068 Inspection: Thurs 4-4.30pm & Sat 11 -11.30am
195 Britannia Creek Road, Wesburn
3
A
2
B 1 C
$1,250,000 - $1,370,000
David Carroll M 0419 539 320 Inspection: By Appointment
4
18 Kent Street, Warburton
A
2
B 2 C
$590,000 - $640,000
Luxury, Style and Class on Over 1 Acre
A Serene Tree-Change Escape in the Heart of Warburton
An exceptional and luxurious home presented to perfection and situated on over 1 acre of land. Boasting 4 bedrooms all with built in robes including a walk in robe and ensuite in the main bedroom, plus a study/office or optional 5th bedroom. Substantial living areas with a huge family room plus a separate living, dining and meals area. The open plan kitchen is sure to impress with style and class in all aspects with quality appliances and fixtures with ample bench and cupboard space. Outside is just as impressive with over 1 acre to explore and enjoy with covered veranda’s and a large open entertaining area, a double carport and extra large shedding with plenty of parking space for large trucks, caravans and trailers. A fantastic property in a glorious location offering a superb lifestyle.
Set amongst the treetops on an approximately 1/3-acre block, the home enjoys a wonderful sense of space, privacy and connection to its natural surroundings. The three bedrooms are all light-filled and feature built-in robes, with the master bedroom enjoying the added benefit of double robes. Main Bathroom will comfortably accommodate all the family. Step outside and enjoy the peaceful surrounds from the expansive decking, where mountain views, established greenery and visiting birdlife create a beautiful country atmosphere. The generous and usable yard provides plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors, garden or simply unwind and soak up the serenity, while practical features include solar panels, an asphalt driveway, single carport and an abundance of under-house storage.
David Carroll M 0419 539 320 Inspection: By Appointment
4
A
2
B 8 C
Rebecca Doolan M 0401 832 068 Inspection: Sat 11.30 - 12.00pm
3
A
1
B 1 C
bellrealestate.com.au mailcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 21
HOME FOCUS
LARGE FAMILY HOME IN JUST THE RIGHT LOCATION SET in a peaceful Upwey location, 5 Ferndale Avenue is a beautifully maintained four bedroom, brick veneer home offering generous proportions, excellent flexibility and a fantastic indoor and outdoor lifestyle for the whole family. Tucked away in a quiet setting while still within easy reach of everything Upwey has to offer, the home is approximately 2.6km from Upwey Train Station and Main Street, 2.2km from Upwey Primary School and Upwey High School. It sits in a wonderfully convenient position for families wanting a little more peace and space without sacrificing access to schools, shops, cafes and public transport. The brand new kitchen is a standout feature, finished with timber cabinetry, stone benchtops and quality craftsmanship, along with soft close cupboards, excellent storage and plenty of preparation space for those who love to cook. A major highlight is the abundance of living space, with two huge living zones providing plenty of room for everyone to spread out. Whether you need space for family gatherings, quiet evenings or entertaining guests, these comfortably large lounges can be tailored to suit your lifestyle. The home includes four bedrooms that are positioned along the hallway, with a bathroom located on each side of the house for added convenience. The large laundry provides additional storage and everyday practicality. Comfort is well taken care of year round with ducted heating, split system heating and cooling, a cosy wood fire and ceiling fans throughout. There is also ducted vacuuming for extra convenience. Outside is where this property really comes into its own. The expansive tiered decking provides separate spaces for outdoor dining and relaxed seating, making it ideal for entertaining family and friends. Beyond the deck are paved areas, well maintained garden boxes and a large, almost flat, green rear yard that is securely fenced and beautifully maintained, offering plenty of room for children, pets and keen gardeners to enjoy. Spacious, practical and exceptionally well cared for, 5 Ferndale Avenue delivers the kind of flexibility families are always searching for, in a highly sought after Upwey location. ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 5 Ferndale Avenue, UPWEY Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 garage Price: $1,000,000 - $1,100,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442 and Jonathan Arad 0490 393 328, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 9754 6888
22 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
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Real Estate you can trust! We’re here to help.
4/83SandellsRoad,Tecoma
128Belgrave-GembrookRd,Selby
48TernesRoad,Upwey
2 Bed | 1 Bath | 1 Car | 147m2
2 Bed | 1 Bath | Car | 1449m2
4 Bed | 2 Bath | 2123m2
FOR SALE $550,000 - $590,000
FOR SALE $700,000 - $760,000
FOR SALE $950,000 - $1,040,000
Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442
Jonathan Arad 0490 393 328
Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442
Jonathan Arad 0490 393 328
Brad Conder 0422 639 115
Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554
290GlenfernRoad,Upwey
5FerndaleAvenue,Upwey
4 Bed | 2 Bath | 2 Car | 981m2
4 Bed | 2 Bath | 1 Car | 1142m2
4 Bed | 2 Bath | 2 Car | 1065m2
FOR SALE $980,000 - $1,075,000
FOR SALE $1,000,000 - $1,100,000
FOR SALE $1,100,000 - $1,200,000
Daniel Steen 0434 979 142
Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442
Jonathan Arad 0490 393 328
2TheCrescent,BelgraveHeights
Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442
Jonathan Arad 0490 393 328
03 9754 6888 office@chandlerandco.com.au 1689 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave Vic 3160 mailcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 23
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
7 5 1
8 9
18
7 8 5
9
11 23
2
3
25
13
2
8
8
3
E
8
3
10
E
5
17
21
16
12 9
26
1
22
6
21
23
7
11
26
26
3
16
25
T E 10
11
3
21
26
10
26
12
2
E
13
1
T
26
13
T
8
T
16
2
25
11
16
21
5
E
E
17
20
24
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
T E
21 8
22 9
23 10
24 11
25 12
26 13
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'.
D
T
U
Today’s Aim: 15 words: Good 22 words: Very good 30 words: Excellent
R
I
I
9 8 5 4 1 2 6 3 7 2 7 1 3 8 6 9 4 5 3 6 4 5 7 9 2 8 1 8 1 6 9 2 7 4 5 3 5 3 7 6 4 8 1 2 9 4 9 2 1 5 3 7 6 8 6 2 8 7 3 1 5 9 4 1 5 3 2 9 4 8 7 6 7 4 9 8 6 5 3 1 2
9 3 7 6 1 8 2 5 4 8 1 5 3 4 2 9 7 6 6 2 4 9 7 5 1 3 8 3 4 2 8 5 7 6 1 9 5 8 6 1 2 9 3 4 7 1 7 9 4 3 6 5 8 2 4 6 1 7 9 3 8 2 5 7 5 8 2 6 1 4 9 3 2 9 3 5 8 4 7 6 1
G
hard
N
N
digit, ding, dining, dint, dirt, during, gird, girt, grid, grin, grind, grit, INTRUDING, inuring, riding, rigid, rind, ring, ruin, ruing, ruining, tiding, tiring, trig, tuning, turgid, turning, unit, uniting, untiring
7 6 8 9 3 5 4 1 2 9 4 1 6 2 8 3 5 7 2 3 5 1 4 7 6 9 8 4 8 9 5 7 1 2 3 6 1 2 6 3 8 9 5 7 4 5 7 3 2 6 4 1 8 9 6 9 2 7 5 3 8 4 1 8 5 7 4 1 2 9 6 3 3 1 4 8 9 6 7 2 5 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com
6
7
8
18
19
13
14
15
4 LETTERS ATOM BOGS BURP DOES EBBS EDDY HILT LAUD LOGO SEEK SICS SNOB SOIL TEST
16
17 20
21
23
22
24
25
26 27
28
29
30
31
3 LETTERS ALE ANY ASH ASK ATE DUO ERR LAB LAP LET NOW OAF OFF ORE PRO REV ROW SAT SEA TEA TEE TNT WEB YET
1
7
medium
5
12
10
9-LETTER WORD
easy
4
11
WORDFIT
11
25
2
10
11
3
2
10
E E
20
9 9 6 7
3
10
No. 340
25
11
10
2
26
16
14
11
26
E
1
13 9
24
16
13 3
17
1
T
21
T
17
8
25
9 16
23
6
4
8
2
11
19
3
9 16 17 18 19 22 23 24 27
17
Y A U B G X Z L M I N W O
5 4
4 5 7 8
S J D C Q F K R P V H T E
6
4 1
19
13
hard
2
E T
17 4
7
25
26
6 1 8 9 3 4 2 1 8 4 8 9 5 1 3
26
12
19
4
14
26
E E
5
2
26
12
4
7 5 2
8 2 2
3
3
18
3 6 9
21
17
1
15
3
2 3 4
4 7 6
2
Attacking, as a magpie (8) Width of a circle (8) Head servant of a household (6) Partner (9) Speaker’s platform (4) Harmony (6) Land mass surrounded by water (6) Supervisors (7) Flower (9) Pigeonholed (7) Wide view (8) Keep (8) A poetic unit of three lines (6) Mature zucchini (6) Accommodations (6) Plummet (4)
1 2 3
DECODER
2
5
26 28 29 30 31
2
9
4 6 medium
9 3
12 13 14 15 20 21 25
16
5 3 9 3 6 7 1 5 1 9 7 9 5 3
5 2 9
10 11
15
4 5 9
Credenza (9) German automobile manufacturer (4) Eggs (3) Formal statement about another’s character (11) Bearing (8) Reply (6) Desideratum (4) Preserved with sugar syrup (7) Gala (7) Just (4) Glossy type of glass applied to surfaces for protection (6) Poisonous (8) Reciprocal (11) Tune (3) Borough (4) Visible features of an area (9)
1 6
1
DOWN
1
2 3
6
ACROSS
No. 308
14
5 4
QUICK CROSSWORD
No. 308
A L I B I
5 LETTERS ACHED ADULT ALIBI ALIKE AMUSE ANNUL AORTA ARCED ARISE AZURE BANAL BLARE BUTTE CAMEO CORAL EASED ETHIC FETES GREEK HALTS IDEAS INANE
KORAN LUNGE NOTES OPTIC OZONE PACED PASTA PICKY PRAYS PREEN RANTS ROBOT SCARE SEEPS SHEAR SORRY SPATE SPAWN SPELL SPEWS STRAY SWELL TEETH
TITLE TOTED TOWER TRASH TWIRL
EMINENT GREATER INNARDS SERPENT
6 LETTERS ALLEYS PETTED REARED TATTLE
8 LETTERS LEVERAGE LONELIER PALATIAL PARENTAL
7 LETTERS ACCRUED EASTERN R A N T S S P E W S P A S T A C A M E O E T H I C O Z O N E B U T T E A L I B I T E E T H O R E K O R A N L E T A L E T E S T F E T E S R E A R E D O A F I N N A R D S S P AWN A T O M H I L T B U R P D U O P A R E N T A L A C C R U E D S E R P E N T T E E L A U D L E V E R A G E L O G O E A S E D E D D Y E A S T E R N A N Y T A T T L E S E E P S S I C S R OW L A B A L I K E N OW O P T I C B L A R E A R I S E S T R A Y G R E E K B A N A L S O R R Y S P E L L H A L T S
No. 308
S I D E B O A R D A U D I W I U S A F N S T E S T I M O N I A L O V A M L O S R S A O P R E S E N C E R E J O I N I T R I M N D C A N D I E D N E E D G R L T A N P P P A G E A N T F A I R T M B D H N E V E N O M O U S E N A M E L R R L F L T R E A I R C O R R E L A T I V E O D L O L M V E T OWN L A N D S C A P E
SUDOKU
25-09-26
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Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | MAIL 25
SPORT
Callum Urquhart (Mt Evelyn) outjumps Wandin’s Patrick Hodgett in the Seniors Grand Final. (Armin Richter)
Mt Evelyn’s Asher Inaps marks in the Seniors Grand Final. (Armin Richter)
Mt Evelyn beat Wandin in this play during the A Grade Grand Final. (Armin Richter)
Wandin’s stunning quarter By Armin Richter The Outer East football and netball competition wrapped up on Saturday at Healesville where the Premier Division champions were decided. An overcast morning cleared to a perfect sunny finals day with a light wind blowing to the dog track end. In the seniors it was fierce rivals Wandin and Mt Evelyn who faced off against each other. The Bulldogs were on a 28-game winning streak but had only just beaten the Rovers in a lightning-interrupted match two weeks ago. Mt Evelyn were looking to serve up some revenge and, for three quarters, delivered the perfect game plan by shutting down Wandin’s running link-up play. At three-quarter time, the 38 point lead looked to be enough to deliver Mt Evelyn their first premiership since 1998, when they had defeated Rowville in the Eastern League prior to joining the YVMDFL in 2002. It was Mt Evelyn’s first Grand Final in the Outer East, their previous best result had been a Preliminary Final in 2014. What transpired in the final term will go down
in Bulldogs folklore as they stormed home to kick 8.3 to nothing and claimed back-to-back flags with a stunning 30 minutes of football. By remaining unbeaten for the year, Wandin take the title of champions, being the first team to achieve that since they also achieved that task in 2015. It is Wandin’s fifth flag in the last 12 years, although it is effectively 10 years as two of those were cancelled by Covid. By dropping just one game in two years, they also bettered Upwey-Tecoma’s 1978-1979 record of back-to-back flags where the Tigers had just two losses over two years. In the Reserves, Mt Evelyn had been unbeaten through the home and away series before stumbling in the second Semi Final to Officer. The two sides met again in the decider and the Rovers made sure of the result this time, taking the flag by 47 points. Officer did take home the Under 18s premiership though when they claimed back-to-back flags with a win over the host club Healesville. The Bloods led narrowly for the opening three quarters before the Kangaroos dominated the play in the final term, kicking 3.4 to nothing. In A Grade Netball, it was also Wandin and Mt
Mt Evelyn attempts to block Woori Yallock in the D Grade Grand Final. (Armin Richter) Evelyn who faced off. One of the highlights occurred before the game had even started. When the soundtrack of the Australian National Anthem failed to play, the two teams broke into an impromptu performance of their own when they sang it themselves. The two power teams were both stacked with talented players, but it was Mt Evelyn who grabbed the early ascendancy and held a 15-8 lead at the first change. Wandin won the following
quarters by one goal in each but that still left them four goals shy of victory. The Rovers’ win reversed last year’s result. The other senior grade Grand Finals had close and exciting matches, with the rapidly improving Woori Yallock taking home two flags. The Junior premierships were won by Mt Evelyn in the Under 17s and Monbulk Gold in the Under 15s over their South East club rivals. Outer East Football Netball League Results FOOTBALL Premier Division (Grand Finals) ■ Seniors: Wandin 13.4.82 def Mt. Evelyn 11.3.69 ■ Reserves: Mt. Evelyn 13.4.82 def Officer 5.5.35 ■ Under 18: Officer 8.7.55 def Healesville 5.5.35 NETBALL Premier Division (Grand Finals) ■ A Grade: Mt. Evelyn 54 def Wandin 50 ■ B Grade: Woori Yallock 49 def Mt. Evelyn 46 ■ C Grade: Wandin 27 def Mt. Evelyn 23 ■ D Grade: Woori Yallock 30 def Mt. Evelyn 22 ■ Under 17: Mt. Evelyn 27 def ROC 17 ■ Under 15: Monbulk Gold 39 def Pakenham Maroon 22
St Mary’s Catholic Primary School claims second place By Mikayla Van Loon and Claudia Mather On Wednesday 9 September the St Mary’s Catholic Primary mixed netball team competed in the School Sport Victoria State Netball Championships and placed as runners up in Victoria. After playing 18 games and only losing twice, the team has been buzzing over their huge achievement. The team’s coach, Melissa Primavera said she is incredibly proud of the students and all that they have accomplished throughout their netball journey. “At the state level, we were competing against all-boys teams, while our team was made up of seven girls and only two boys,” she explained. “Across four different levels of competition, our team has played an incredible 18 games, we lost only two with both losses coming against the same team.” “A 16–2 win-loss record is a pretty impressive achievement and is a real reflection of the commitment, determination and teamwork shown by this group of students.” The mixed team consisted of five netballers, three basketballers as well as students who decided to brave a new sport. One student, Milly, said that making it to the grand final was a shock for the team but also a product of their hard work. “It didn’t matter if we won or lost, it was just an honour to play with such an amazing group of players,” she said. Ms Primavera added that getting to watch the 26 MAIL | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
Lenny and Ocea with the premiership flag. (Supplied) The students are beyond proud of their achievement. (Supplied) students support one another and celebrate their successes has been really special to see. “For me personally, this has definitely been a highlight of my teaching career. While the results have been fantastic, what I am most proud of is the relationships and bonds that have developed within this group of students,” she said. Another student, Alyssa, said, “The competition has really brought us all together and I’m truly happy we worked so hard for each other, even though we are all at different levels of skill. It was an honour to be a part of this team and I feel so proud.” Ms Primavera also highlighted her gratitude
to not only the entire school but particularly the school’s PE teacher, Mrs McCormick. “The encouragement, support and belief she has shown in our students has helped make these opportunities possible,” she said. The St Mary’ Netball team will look back on this experience with a smile, knowing they gave everything they had while creating a core memory along the way. “Our students have represented our school with pride, determination and fantastic sportsmanship, and I could not be prouder of what they have achieved.”
The St Mary’s mixed team post game. (Supplied)
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SPORT
Most successful season By Mikayla Van Loon and Claudia Mather The Mt Evelyn Netball club have had their most successful season yet with nine teams making it through to the grand final and four teams taking home the premiership flag. This is the highest number of teams in the grand final in Mt Evelyn Netball Club history. Out of the 18 eligible teams for finals, 12 of them ended up in the semi finals. The premiers included the U11 section 5, U13 section 4, U13 section 2 and U15 section 1 teams. Across the club, nine players were also awarded best and fairest or runner up by the Lilydale and Yarra Valley Netball Association. The Mount Evelyn Netball Club president, Sarah Kleverkamp said, “it’s always great to see our players recognised at the association level.” “We have over 25 members playing at rep level or similar. This level is always celebrated within our club, but it’s also nice to see other players in the lower sections also recognised for their efforts.” She said it’s not always about getting into the top team but the effort and development individuals make. “I love watching the surprise on the faces of these players who receive the awards. They are so well deserved.” Ms Kleverkamp explained that a big part of the club’s success was building consistency in coaching messages across teams. “We had coaching workshops and provided a bank of resources to support training session planning,” she said. “Our teams work together at training, players are always happy to help out and fill in for other teams.” Binding the club together this season was also the overall support from club members and their supportive families. “We are extremely lucky to have so many supportive families. Aside from our coaches, our
MENC U13 section 4 are all smiles amidst their grand final win. (Supplied) parents will always put up their hand to help out whether it be scoring or helping around the club,” Ms Kleverkamp explained. “I need to give a huge shout out to Rebecca Humphris and Sheelagh Kleverkamp who also
give so much time to the club. Without their support we wouldn’t be as successful as we are,” she said. Ms Kleverkamp is extremely proud of what the Mt Evelyn Netball Club is and the milestones they
have made in this year’s season. “It doesn’t matter the skill level, what matters is that we are a family that supports each other at every level and we do it because we all love the game!”
Milestone win as Lilydale Over 50s finish undefeated season with a flag By Callum Ludwig The Falcons are flying high after the Lilydale Over 50s completed their undefeated season with a premiership win on Sunday 13 September. Lilydale travelled to Roy Dore Reserve in Carrum to take on a Peninsula side whose sole loss of the season came at the hands of the Falcons in Round Six. Playing coach Dean de Munk said it was amazing, but the day was nerve-wracking. “Peninsula were very, very good and it wasn’t until probably five minutes to go of the game that I finally probably realised that this was gonna happen,” he said. “Probably the best way to describe my feelings was a relief. When that siren went, it was a relief because we were undefeated all year, we were favourites, and I felt like there was a bit of pressure. “But it was just a wonderful occasion with a lot of people embracing, not just players but families and parents, kids and partners, it brought a lot of joy for a lot of people.” Lilydale managed 3.3 while kicking with a strong wind in the first quarter to the opponent’s solitary point, before Peninsula got back in the game with three goals to one in the second. The Falcons were then only able to extend their lead by a point in the ‘premiership quarter’ after both sides managed one major apiece to set up a nervous final stanza. But Peninsula ran out of legs and Lilydale kicked three goals against the wind in the last quarter to run out 9.7, 61 to 5.8, 38 victors. de Munk said a few people said during the Mad Monday celebrations that it was good to be really challenged, and to step up when they needed to step up. “We did play them earlier in the year on their ground and everything fell into place for us that day and we had what I would call a comfortable win. “But we knew we were playing a much stronger side in the grand final, they were full strength and had done their homework on our strengths, as we did ours as well, but it was a lot closer than I would have liked.
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L-R: Captain Jason Cook and playing coach Dean de Munk. (Supplied)
The Lilydale Falcons Over 50s lift the premiership cup aloft. (Supplied) “‘It became a more satisfying win’ was a common theme between the players yesterday.” The Falcon’s best in the 23-point triumph were Steve Andrews, Haydn Salter, Jarrod Prior, David teBoekhorst and Marc Hofstee. de Munk said the team has become a home for a lot of people and it’s great for men’s health for guys to get out of the house at that age as well. “We certainly welcome new players next year, we all train together just once a week, play every fortnight but I can’t say how much the off-field support we had from the people that weren’t playing meant,” he said. “We had players that missed out, of course, that always happens in grand finals but we had a lot of volunteers and people running water and people in the coaches’ box and trainers. “It was a great reward for a lot of people, not just the players on the day.” The flag was a fitting way to celebrate the flourishing Lilydale AFL Masters program, with the club having fielded an over 45s, over 50s and over 55s team in the 2026 season.
de Munk said what he has been really surprised about through getting to know the guys over the last couple of years is there’s only really a handful of footballers that have continued to play. “I started playing when I was 13 and I’m 55, and haven’t really stopped but there’s a lot of people in our team, in our premiership team, that never played football as an adult,” he said. “They may have had young families, or they never played football so some people picked this sport up late in their journey of football…and it was the first premiership for seven or eight players in our team, there was some guys that are over fifty that hadn’t tasted success. “But more importantly, it became a bit of an outlet, it’s always good to do something physical, most sports provide that but just to get out of the house to train and exercise and have that barbecue… It’s been a safe haven, if you like, for many people.” The Lilydale Masters will resume training in November on Wednesday nights and are keen to welcome new players at all age levels and abilities.
Assistant coach Brett Vincent in action. (Supplied)
Players embrace as they celebrate the win. (Supplied)
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