Tuesday, 6 October, 2026
Fire crew win pay dispute
Groups rake in Tiny Towns grants
Wandin North kids get radio famous
See Real Estate liftout inside
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Cultivating knowledge By Oliver Winn There’s a TAFE course teaching students how to produce medicinal cannabis, and its first cohort of students are learning on a farm right here in the Yarra Valley. Federation TAFE officially launched its Certificate III in Medicinal Cannabis Cultivation and Production at Cannai Farm on Tuesday 29 September. Licensed Australian medicinal cannabis cultivator Cannai Farm partnered with Federation TAFE to provide practical hands-on learning for the inaugural cohort of nine students. Cannai Farm owner Bryce Lawrence has been caring for his cannabis crops for two years now, supplying a burgeoning medicinal cannabis industry as stigma slowly strips back. He said it’s a welcome development. The launch was celebrated at Cannai Farm in the Yarra Valley. (Oliver Winn: 582471)
Read more on page 7
Calls for support By Gabriella Vukman Yarra Ranges Council has called for an urgent expansion of local mental health services, warning that geographic isolation, transport barriers and long waiting lists are leaving regional communities without adequate care. The opening of a new Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Ringwood on Wednesday 16 September has highlighted growing disparities across Melbourne’s east. While Cardinia Shire holds two Mental Health Local facilities in Pakenham and Cockatoo, the Yarra Ranges relies on a
single main service in Lilydale, supported by satellite and outreach arrangements. As Victoria’s largest metropolitan council area, residents in outer areas face drives of upwards of 40 minutes to access face-to-face support. Yarra Ranges Council acting communities director Anne Blakeway said the Lilydale service was a welcome addition, but significant gaps remained for young people and residents outside the urban fringe. She said the model, currently restricted to adults aged 26 and over, must be expanded to
support children and youth. “Outreach to Upper Yarra and wider Yarra Valley areas is also a priority, as this area is extremely under-serviced and geographically isolated for young people,” she said. The council cited high transport costs, limited public bus services, and severe shortages of GPs and psychiatrists as primary obstacles. Community surveys revealed 22 per cent of local residents ranked health care and hospitals among their top three concerns. Victorian Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt
said the Lilydale service delivered free care close to home through satellite sites in Healesville, Warburton, Belgrave, and Yarra Junction, alongside outreach in Yarra Glen. However, state authorities provided no data on usage figures or waiting times for satellite operations. Eastern Health, which operates the Lilydale Local alongside community partners, said the service formed part of a broader network responding to strong regional demand. Turn to page 4 to read more
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Impact of surcharge ban By Claudia Mather
Small businesses are feeling the pressure from new card surcharge laws. (Supplied)
It was the same when Covid happened; businesses were having to explain themselves over and over again, explaining that it wasn’t us and that we are just doing our jobs.” quality of the ingredients used or change their generous portions. Upwey Pizza also acknowledged that the 50c price increase across the board does not rule out the unfairness to customers who already pay cash to avoid these fees. “We’re sorry about that.” “If we can make it through all that, then we have a good shot at surviving what can only be described as the most relentless, brutal chapter in hospitality.”
Similarly to Upwey Pizza, other Outer East small businesses like Yarra Junction Hardware are taking to Facebook to update customers. “We wanted to share exactly what this means for our business and community,” they wrote. “The new law removes that fee from your view, but it doesn’t remove it from existence.” “Now for every single card transaction, the bank adds a processing fee that we are forced to pay.’ Yarra Junction Hardware estimates that
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these new bank fees will cost around $4,000 a month. “To put that into perspective, that is the equivalent of a full-time staff member’s wage gone every single month, straight into the bank’s pockets,” they shared. Like most small businesses, Yarra Junction Hardware emphasised the difference paying cash can make for them. “Processing cash takes just minutes of our day—nowhere near as costly or devastating as the thousands of dollars in new card fees we are now copping from the banks.” “We love our community and want to keep our doors open for a long time to come.” While this might appear as an exciting change for customers tapping their card for a morning coffee, fresh pizza, or a new tool, it presents a significant challenge for small business owners navigating an already murky costof-living crisis.
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As of Thursday, 1 October, businesses are no longer able to charge customers a surcharge for paying by card. A surcharge in the context of card payments is an extra fee charged by a merchant to a consumer for using a card to pay for a transaction. Small businesses across the outer east share growing concerns about the merchant fees now falling back onto them. Absorbing these bank fees and raising prices is not something any small business wants to do in light of the ever-evolving rising costs. Assistant venue manager at Healesville Hotel, Roxy, said the surcharge ban is an additional struggle the business will have to take on. “We have to now absorb that ourselves, which is thousands of dollars,” she said. “Now we’re having to look at price increases on our food and on our beverages, just so that it doesn’t kill us as a business.” The Healesville Hotel currently had a card surcharge of 1.3 per cent to 1.7 per cent depending on the kind of card being used. As of the start of October, this cost will fall back onto the business. Roxy said that the team at Healesville Hotel are looking into ways they can encourage people to use cash and steer away from card payments but are conscious that people are already struggling day to day as it is. “With the cost of living right now, people can’t afford anything anyway,” she explained. Roxy worries that the surcharge ban will drive a divide between customers and business owners for something that is out of their control. “It was the same when Covid happened; businesses were having to explain themselves over and over again, explaining that it wasn’t us and that we are just doing our jobs,” she said. The surcharge shift follows findings from earlier this year in March by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). RBA’s Payment Systems Board’s Review of Merchant Card Payment Costs and Surcharging drove the decision to act on the no-surcharge rules. “The RBA has concluded that it is in the public interest to remove surcharging for all designated card networks from 1 October 2026,” they wrote on their website. “These changes allow the designated card networks to impose a ban on surcharging for credit, debit and prepaid card payments on their networks.” Upwey Pizza shared their concerns in a recent post on their Facebook Page. “Saying this isn’t frustrating would be a lie,” they wrote. “Across a year, those surcharges add up to tens of thousands of dollars for Upwey Pizza.” “From Thursday, that comes straight out of the bottom line, which is a significant hit for a business already absorbing rising costs on every front.” For the past few months, Upwey Pizza has been analysing how they can move forward with the new rule from October 1. “The cleanest way would be a 50c price increase across all products; that should get us pretty close to containing it,” they wrote. They insisted they do not wish to reduce the
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IN BRIEF Hoddles Creek house lost to flames A split-system air conditioner caused a major house fire in Hoddles Creek on 2 October. No occupants were present at the time of the fire. A CFA spokesperson said 12 CFA units attended the Wills Rd house at around 7pm on Friday night. “Both floors of a two-storey house were alight. Firefighters conducted an internal and external attack on the fire. “The incident was deemed under control at 8.21pm and declared safe at 10.30pm,” the spokeperson said.
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The Metro Crew were deployed to manage a planned burn in Warburton in March this year. (File)
Win for fire officers amid pay dispute By Oliver Winn A Fair Work Commission ruling determined the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) should have paid fire crew workers a full day’s wage for time spent on an after-action review and travel from a planned burn near Warburton. Forest fire operations officer Megan Andrews argued that the Metro Crew was underpaid on 29 March, claiming the work done on the day engaged the minimum 7.6 hour work period. But DEECA argued the crew should only be paid for the time spent travelling home and not a full day’s wage. Ms Andrews brought the dispute against DEECA to the Fair Work Commission (FWC) on 17 September after attempts to settle with her employer fell through. The dispute boiled down to different interpretations of the Field Staff and Wild Dog Controllers Agreement 2021, which covered Ms Andrews and her crew. FWC deputy president Amber Millhouse found the Metro Crew completed work on 29 March that was “incidental to the planned burn”, not just relating to travel time. “On 29 March 2025, in addition to travelling from the camp to the depot, the Metro Crew per-
The FWC ruled in favour of Ms Andrews. (AAP Image/James Ross) formed work that I consider to be incidental to the planned burn, including an after-action review, packing down the campsite, cleaning, and restocking vehicles at the home depot. “I do not consider these actions to be merely incidental to travel,” Ms Millhouse said in the ruling. Ms Andrews is a workplace delegate for the Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) and an AWU Victorian Branch vice president. DEECA deployed the Metro Crew to a planned burn near Warburton where the workers managed the control line from 26 to 28 March. The crew camped at the Warburton Holiday Park and on the morning of 29 March they packed up and returned to their home depots. They also conducted an after-action review,
packed down a campsite, cleaned and restocked vehicles and drove home from the planned burn. Ms Andrews’ argument centred on clause 82 of the agreement which entitled the workers to a minimum 7.6 hours’ pay. Clause 91, travelling time, outlined time spent travelling to or from a bushfire “will be regarded as time worked”, therefore engaging clause 82. But DEECA argued that Ms Andrews’ claim led to the “absurd and industrially unfair and unreasonable consequence” where an employee who travels home continues to be paid for the time they spend at home. DEECA claimed clause 91 of the agreement should be “construed strictly and not in a way that creates rights that extend beyond the purpose for which the provision was created”. DEECA claimed Ms Andrews interpretation would lead to the Metro Crew being paid for time spent “engaging in personal activities that have nothing to do with performing work for their employer, or engaging in activities that could never be characterised as work related”. But Ms Millhouse concluded in favour of Ms Andrews. “I therefore reject the respondent’s contention that clause 82, Work Period was not engaged, or had no room to operate,” Ms Millhouse said in the ruling.
Health authorities and medical experts are urging Victorians to prepare for a potentially severe grass pollen season, as the state marks a decade since the world’s most catastrophic epidemic thunderstorm asthma event. The warning comes as Victoria enters its official grass pollen season, which runs from 1 October to 31 December. Experts warn that a combination of record-breaking weather patterns and high grass growth could create a challenging spring for millions of allergy sufferers across south-eastern Australia. Epidemic thunderstorm asthma occurs when high levels of grass pollen combine with specific storm conditions. Moisture and rain cause pollen grains to burst into tiny, microscopic particles. Strong wind gusts then carry these fine particles deep into the lungs, triggering sudden and severe asthma attacks, even in people with no prior asthma diagnosis. For daily pollen levels and thunderstorm asthma forecasts, visit emergency.vic.gov.au or melbournepollen.com.au.
Warburton Mechanics Institute Hall survey Friends of the Warburton Mechanics Hall are calling on the community to have their say on how they can restore connection between the community and the hall. The short survey can be found here: tinyurl. com/57ub889b.
Wanted on warrants Rebecca Parker Zvirbulis, 54, is wanted on multiple warrants. She is described as having a fair complexion, long brown hair, slim build and approximately 180cm tall. Anyone who sights her or has information regarding her whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Anyone who knows Rebecca Parker Zvirbulis’ whereabouts are encouraged to contact police. (Yarra Ranges Eyewatch)
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Questions over local mental health help By Gabriella Vukman The addition of a new Mental Health and Wellbeing Local site in Ringwood on Wednesday 16 September has raised questions over the reach and capacity of services available to people across the Yarra Ranges. Where Cardinia Shire has two Mental Health Local facilities in Pakenham and Cockatoo, the Yarra Ranges’ Lilydale Mental Health and Wellbeing Local services the entire shire, although the service also operates satellite and outreach arrangements across the region. The Lilydale Local provides free mental health and wellbeing treatment, care and support without a GP referral or Medicare card. But with the Yarra Ranges being the largest metropolitan council area in Victoria, questions are now being raised about whether one main service is enough for the municipality where locals may have to drive upwards of 40 minutes to receive care. Yarra Ranges Council acting communities director Anne Blakeway said the Lilydale service had been a welcome addition, but that significant gaps remain, particularly for residents outside the urban area and for young people. Ms Blakeway said the current model, which is available to people aged 26 and over, should be expanded to include children and young people. “Given that current service is only available to those aged 26 and over, Council is calling for an expansion of the model to also support the mental health needs of children and young people in our region,” she said. “This critical life stage is marked by identity formation, mental health vulnerability and pivotal life choices and can alleviate experiences of mental ill health later in life. “Outreach to Upper Yarra and wider Yarra Valley areas is also a priority, as this area is extremely under-serviced and geographically isolated for young people.” The issue is particularly relevant as Victoria continues its broader mental health reforms, which are intended to provide treatment and support closer to where people live. The Victorian Government’s Statewide Mental Health and Wellbeing Service and Capital Plan 2024–2037 includes modelling of future demand and says population needs, growth and changing demographics should inform mental health service planning. The Government says Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals are designed to make it easier for people to access support without some of the traditional barriers associated with the mental health system. The 2021 Census recorded 15,974 Yarra Ranges residents reporting a long-term mental health condition, including depression or anxiety. This figure amounted to 10.3 per cent of the population, compared with 8.8 per cent across Victoria. The Government’s mental health reform framework says the redesigned system is intended to provide services locally and in the community, close to people’s families, carers, supporters and networks. Victorian Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt pointed to the Lilydale Local and its satellite and outreach arrangements. “Our Lilydale Mental Health and Wellbeing Local is making it easier for the Yarra Ranges community to access free treatment, care and support where they need it - no need for a GP referral or Medicare card, just care that’s close to home. “The service is supporting people across the Yarra Ranges with satellite sites in Healesville, Warburton, Belgrave and Yarra Junction, with Yarra Glen also used as an outreach base to make sure the region has the mental health support they need.” The Government’s description suggests the Lilydale service is not intended to mean every resident must travel to Lilydale for face-to-face support. However, figures showing how many residents use those satellite or outreach arrangements, how frequently they operate, or whether they are sufficient to meet demand in those communities have not been provided. The council said community feedback and 4 MAIL | Tuesday, 6 October, 2026
There are mental health satellite sites in Healesville, Warburton, Belgrave, Yarra Junction, and Yarra Glen. (Pexels). its own research pointed to transport, distance, affordability and a shortage of services as ongoing barriers to accessing health and mental health care. A 2025 survey of nearly 1200 residents found Yarra Ranges residents faced a range of barriers to using local services, particularly health care. The council said residents reported significantly below-average experiences, compared with metropolitan Melbourne, of accessing health services, particularly in the Yarra Valley and Healesville-Yarra Glen. Health care and hospitals were among the top three concerns for 22 per cent of those surveyed. Ms Blakeway said, “Overwhelmingly, transport and distance are the main obstacles to accessing services, with infrequent public transport services in areas outside of the urban area and high transport costs.” The council also identified shortages of psychiatrists, GPs and domestic violence support as factors that can contribute to long waiting lists, while noting there are limited mental health services outside the urban area. According to a 2023 Human Services Needs Analysis, the main service gaps and challenges for young people relate to mental health issues, including eating disorders, and the lack of mental health services. Ms Blakeway said, “Service issues include waiting lists, affordability, counselling for vulnerable young people, and the impact of the Lilydale Youth Hub closure. “Public transport limitations outside of the urban area exacerbate service access issues for young people.” The council’s concerns extend across several communities, including Healesville, Yarra Glen, Warburton, Belgrave and Yarra Junction. Community feedback received in 2025 during the development of the Council Plan 2025-2029 and Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2025-2029 highlighted gaps in access to health services. A 2025 Community Views survey also identified gaps in service access outside the urban area, with residents reporting long waiting times, distances and travel times. The council said access was often limited to those who could drive because of public transport limitations, while high transport costs were a further impediment. Service data also highlighted shortages of GPs, who provide referral pathways to mental health services, as well as mental health special-
ists and other specialists, with a potential flowon to higher use of hospitals for mental health care. “Overall, The Hills and the Valley reported the highest number of service gaps, but mental health service gaps were fairly evenly spread across the four planning areas in Yarra Ranges,” Ms Blakeway said. “Services not accepting new clients, lack of available services or no local services all made it harder to refer patients elsewhere. “Most services experienced increased demand between 2019 and 2023; and clients were presenting with worse mental and physical health, and higher service needs.” Ms Blakeway said the council also linked the need for mental health services to the region’s exposure to natural disasters. “There is a strong link between the level of vulnerability or exposure to repeat natural disasters and mental health - particularly youth mental health. “This is apparent with the rising mental health issues among our young people in particular, but the layering of traumatic events is clearly adding to the stress of the Yarra Ranges communities and demand for increased services.” Ms Blakeway said the council believed additional permanent sites, satellite locations and outreach services were needed in the Yarra Valley and Healesville-Yarra Glen to improve access. “Council is urgently seeking restoration and prioritisation of funding for programs for young people and families, including expanding the Mental Health and Wellbeing Local model.” Eastern Health, which is a partner in delivering the Lilydale Local, said the service was part of a broader network of inpatient, community and crisis-response services. “Eastern Health is committed to providing accessible, high-quality mental health and wellbeing services across the eastern metropolitan region, including the Yarra Ranges,” a spokesperson said. Eastern Health said the establishment of the Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Lilydale and, more recently, the Maroondah service, has expanded access to free, community-based mental health support and reflects the Victorian Government’s broader reform agenda of providing care closer to where people live. “These services complement existing community and acute mental health services operating across the region,” the spokesperson said. “Like many health services across Victoria, Eastern Health continues to experience strong demand for mental health services. “Ongoing monitoring of demand, access, outcomes, consumer feedback and other measures assists in identifying opportunities for improvement and informs future planning.” The provider said it continues to work closely with the Victorian Department of Health, local communities, and partner organisations to understand current and future service needs across the eastern region. The spokesperson said, “This cooperation includes consideration of population growth, changing patterns of demand, accessibility, service utilisation and opportunities to strengthen partnerships and service integration.” Eastern Health did not provide figures on the number of Yarra Ranges residents using the Lilydale Local, waiting times, referrals or unmet demand in its response. The council said it had also raised the issue of mental health service access with governments and local representatives. Ms Blakeway said the council is looking to work with the State and Federal Governments to ensure the Yarra Ranges community has access to the services, supports and opportunities they need. “With the 2026 Victorian Election approaching, we are seeking local stories, experiences and perspectives to help strengthen these priorities and amplify the community’s voice with decision-makers.” Ms Blakeway said Community members can support Council’s advocacy by visiting: yarraranges.vic.gov.au/advocacy The new Maroondah Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Ringwood is operated by Wellways in partnership with Eastern Health, Oonah Health and Community Services Aboriginal Corporation and AccessHC.
AMA Victoria president Dr Simon Judkins speaks to media ahead of a Victorian doctors protest outside the Victorian Parliament on 1 October. (AAP Image/Joel Carrett)
Doctors strike as dispute over pay, conditions drags on By Allanah Sciberras, AAP Exhausted doctors may be close to their first “meaningful” offer for improved pay and conditions after ditching their scrubs and walking off the job. Thousands of doctors across Victoria united in solidarity on Thursday 1 October, many braving the rain and gathering on the steps of Melbourne’s Parliament House calling for improvements to their working conditions. Eastern Health confirmed with Star Mail on Tuesday that it was planning for the stop-work action and “determining staffing impacts” across its facilities. “We acknowledge and respect each employee’s right to participate in protected industrial action and are working collaboratively with medical staff to ensure safe patient care is maintained across our services,” a spokesperson said. Union members have been locked in fractured negotiations with the state government for more than a year. A deal is yet to be reached, despite Health Minister Ingrid Stitt remaining hopeful a resolution is not far off. “My message to doctors is we are listening and absolutely committed to continuing discussions with your union to make sure that we come to a settlement,” she said. The government met with union representatives on Thursday, with hopes of the “first meaningful offer that we can take to our members”, AMA Victoria president Simon Judkins said. Chants of “shame” could be heard as the lack of a pay deal was raised. Signs reading “Keep our mum safe” and “Tired doctors = patients suffer” could be seen among the crowd. Conditions outside were difficult, with rain pouring down, but it was clear that what doctors faced inside hospitals were even tougher. “This won’t be the last strike. Be ready,” one union speaker said. Zak Doherty, who works at a major metropolitan hospital, told AAP conditions needed to improve immediately. “Instead of having to do 14 hours straight shifts, we want to do 12 and a half hours,” he said. He has been working as a doctor for six years and is often on call for multiple nights in a row, during which he gets only two or three hours of sleep each night. “I’m expected to care for patients Monday morning. It’s unfair for that patient that looks at me in the clinic room, and they can tell I’m exhausted,” he said. “We know how to manage fatigue, we know how to call on our colleagues to help us when we need, but we shouldn’t have to do that.” Emergency departments were exempt from the strike on Thursday and emergency surgeries also went ahead, with hospitals staffed above Saturday levels. Alongside increased pay, doctors are demanding at least three guaranteed days off every fortnight to support proper rest and recovery. Opposition health spokeswoman Georgie Crozier told reporters that, if elected in November, the coalition would enter into good faith negotiations with the union. “This government hasn’t understood the complexity of our whole system and hasn’t understood the needs of what is going on,” she said. “The system is at breaking point.”
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Health-led response adopted By Callum Ludwig
Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt announced the new protocols on Monday 28 September. (File: 376468) Victoria Police, however the relevant unions have publicly expressed disappointment at not being included in the discussions. The Health and Community Services Union, which represents mental health workers, issued a statement expressing their ‘emphatic’ support for a health-led response but disappointment at having been ‘left out of the conversation.’ The Victorian Ambulance Union secretary Danny Hill told the ABC he only heard more about the protocols through the media and expected that the ‘vast majority’ of cases would still be co-responses with police and paramedics, especially given the potential risk to paramedics. The VAU was contacted for comment. An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said Ambulance Victoria welcomes the work led by the Department of Health to provide clear guidance and reinforce the roles of emergency agencies responding to mental health crises in the community. “The protocols reinforce the importance of a health-led response to provide patients with the care they need, while still ensuring the support of other agencies depending on each patient’s particular needs,” they said. “The agreement puts patient care and welfare first and provides clarity to our paramedics and first responders attending mental health calls, to ensure patients are supported in the least restrictive way that is safe and reasonably
practicable. “Ambulance Victoria is developing further resources to support our paramedics and first responders, which will complement existing clinical practice guidelines and other procedures.” Ambulance Victoria teams respond to more than 65,000 calls per year either through an ambulance dispatch or telehealth support with a mental health clinician via the Triage Services team. A Victoria Police spokesperson said Victoria Police recently signed a protocol which clarifies the role of police when responding to mental health crises. “This reinforces the preference for a healthled response wherever possible, with police involvement only to be requested as a last resort,” they said. “Victoria Police continues to be responsible for public safety, preserving the peace and responding to immediate risks. Police and protective services officers retain power to take a person into care and control during a mental health crisis to prevent imminent and serious harm to the person or others. “Health agencies will continue to be the primary response option where patients have absconded from mental health units or while subject to compulsory treatment orders with police providing support only in circumstances where
police powers are necessary.” In 2025, Victoria Police responded to 59,014 total mental health related callouts. Mental Health Victoria (MHV) chief executive Phillipa Thomas said this is something that mental health services have been eager to have resolved because it matters a lot in terms of a person’s care, with MHV welcoming the agreement being reached. “These situations are really hard and often distressing – ambiguity amplifies that exponentially, so having this clarified is an important step forward,” she said. “When it comes to situations where you are limiting a person’s freedom any professional with a role in that process is going to feel really cautious about getting it right, so a lack of clarity in this space has been really hard for everyone. “The absence of the protocol has meant there has been an absence of that clarity… it has had an impact on the timeliness and quality of people’s care.” Ms Thomas highlighted delays in urgent treatment, distress for staff, families and carers, unhelpful tensions between frontline services and the gradual decline of the PACER (Police, Ambulance, Clinician, Early Response) as issues continuing to plague the response to mental health crises in Victoria, and the reason why MHV has called for an urgent reset of the mental health reform agenda.
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New guidance for paramedics, police and mental health support personnel is set to prioritise a health-led approach when responding to mental health crises. Mental health minister Ingrid Stitt announced the new Mental Health Crisis Response Protocols on Monday 28 September. “When someone is experiencing a mental health crisis, they deserve a response that puts their health and wellbeing first while keeping them and the community safe,” Ms Stitt said. “We’re making sure our paramedics, mental health workers and police are in step to deliver a health-led response that is patient centred.” The protocols affect how police, protective services officers (PSOs), mental health clinicians, paramedics and authorised health professionals respond to a mental health crisis, with the Victorian government announcing that the changes will ensure ‘better care is delivered faster and more effectively’ while also ‘freeing up police’. An Outer East paramedic, speaking anonymously, said they think it’s a very good thing that we are moving to a health-led response, especially if it means the police will be freed up. “We can’t section (take a patient for compulsory mental health treatment) someone in Victoria without police being present to do the paperwork, which is what we can do in New South Wales…you (the patient) have to be assessed by a mental health clinician and if you don’t come, then I have to call the police and take you there by force, ” they said. “For a lot of people, having the autonomy or having that option meant that they would just come into the ambulance voluntarily, still under a section, and come to hospital so it meant we weren’t using two services but it also meant that we were the ones making the decisions that whether someone could be sectioned or not. “I can’t tell you how many times we’ve taken a patient into hospital that police have sectioned that I disagree with, we don’t have much more training with them, we do one mental health subject in uni, but we have a lot more exposure to mental health patients than they do.” The state health department outlines that police transport should only be considered where a person cannot be safely transported by any other means, while less restrictive alternatives to police transport could include an ambulance with an accompanying mental health practitioner or police member in the ambulance to support safe transport. The paramedic said they will still go in with police when necessary, but it should be better for patient autonomy and they are really excited for the change. “We probably get the most training and support in regard to safety within the workplace, we have the ability to walk away from a patient if there is any threat and we can refuse to attend a patient until police arrive, we’re very protected in the space,” they said. “We probably need a training day on how we implement the restructure but otherwise I think we have the capability. “I may be biased considering I do have experience doing it, I have spoken to paramedics who feel nervous about it.” The protocols were signed off on by the Department of Health, Ambulance Victoria and
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Platypus numbers rising By Oliver Winn Long-term platypus surveys suggest numbers are “bouncing back” in the Yarra River after declining over the past two decades. Melbourne Water’s 2024 Urban Platypus Program survey revealed a strong recovery in larger river systems like the Yarra River. Australian Platypus Conservancy (ACP) founder Geoff Williams said though 2025’s results were yet to come out, the preliminary numbers were looking positive. “We very strongly feel that most of the indicators currently available suggest that things are getting better, not worse,” Mr Williams said. Melbourne Water waterways and wetlands research manager Dr Rhys Coleman agreed with Mr Williams. He said the Urban Platypus Program was one of the longest-running programs of its kind in Australia, measuring populations in Victoria. “Numbers vary from year to year, so it’s the long-term trend that matters. That trend shows declines from the mid-1990s and through the Millennium Drought, with signs of recovery in larger river systems like the Yarra,” Dr Coleman said. But Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) and University of New South Wales (UNSW) called on the Federal government to urgently fund Australia’s first national platypus survey earlier in September. UNSW platypus researcher Associate Professor Gilad Bino said a national survey would help accurately measure platypus numbers into the future. “We need a national survey so we can ensure our assessment is accurate and that the species is adequately protected long into the future,” he said. The platypus was classified as Near Threatened in Australia in 2014, an assessment that Mr Williams believes is still appropriate 12 years after the designation was made. “We fully supported that decision at the
Platypus populations suffered during the Millennium Drought. (ARI/Jarod Lyon) time and basically still do.” He said a Near Threatened classification meant platypus populations had declined in some places due to identifiable causes, such as the Millennium Drought from 1996-2010. “Platypus are very sensitive to drought in a way they don’t seem to be sensitive to floods or bushfires. “Populations did go down during the Millennium Drought, but all the indications, certainly in the Melbourne area, are that they have now bounced back to previous levels,” Mr Williams said. Each year specialist ecologists carry out night trapping surveys for Melbourne Water’s
Urban Platypus Program at sites across Melbourne’s creeks and rivers. Trapping remains the most reliable way of gathering data on population size, breeding and body condition. Melbourne Water recently added environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling to detect where platypus are present. Currently, the platypus is not protected under national environment law. It is listed as endangered in South Australia and vulnerable in Victoria The UNSW and ACF pushed to have the platypus reclassified as Threatened under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act in order to guarantee
more protections for the iconic species. But the federal Threatened Species Scientific Committee, which each year publishes a Proposed Priority Assessment List, rejected the call, stating that “there is no evidence to demonstrate declines across the species range or impacts on its national population”. But Mr Williams said the Near Threatened category was the right assessment. “If the platypus was relisted, obviously there are benefits that flow in terms of extra protection for the species. But being honest about it, I think the Near Threatened category is correct at this point in time.” Dog attacks, rubbish and illegal fishing nets remain the biggest threats to platypuses. Recent figures from Healesville Sanctuary’s wildlife hospital highlight just how real the threat is. Last year alone, six platypuses were brought in after dog attacks; heartbreakingly, four of them did not survive. But Melbourne Water’s community programs area lead Leesa Riley warned the impact extends well beyond these tragic attacks. “Platypuses are usually most active at dawn and dusk, coinciding with when many people are out and about taking their dog for a walk,” Ms Riley said. “We’re particularly concerned that repeated disturbances from dogs - whether they’re off-leash or not properly controlled - can disrupt crucial behaviours like feeding, resting and breeding.” Illegal fishing nets like the banned opera house net claimed the lives of four platypuses in the Upper Yarra last year. Mr Williams said unfortunately people were still using opera house nets. “In the Upper Yarra in particular, there’s been illegal usage over the last couple of years that has killed platypuses. So we again urge people to be aware of opera house traps and the options for nets you can use instead,” he said.
When you move to a Summerset village, you’re not just moving house - you’re joining a warm and vibrant community of likeminded people. Experience this first-hand at Summerset Chirnside Park’s Spring open day, Thursday 8 October from 10am to 2pm. Enjoy live music, free gelato, and take the opportunity to explore the stunning display homes. Plus, you’ll meet some of the residents already living in the village. Come and see what your life could be like at Summerset Chirnside Park and secure your preferred home today.* Love the life you choose.
Join us at our Spring open day Thursday 8 October, 10am to 2pm Summerset Chirnside Park 10 East Ridge Drive, Chirnside Park 03 8777 4242 | chirnsidepark.sales@summerset.com.au
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Federation TAFE student Isaiah said the course immediately piqued his interest. (582471)
Cannai Farm has cultivated and produced medicinal cannabis for two years. (582471)
Federation TAFE student Jayden inspects the plants. (Oliver Winn: 582471)
Cultivating knowledge By Oliver Winn TAFE students are learning to cultivate crops of cannabis at a Yarra Valley farm as part of an Australia-first course in medicinal cannabis production. Federation TAFE officially launched its Certificate III in Medicinal Cannabis Cultivation and Production at Cannai Farm on Tuesday 29 September. Licensed Australian medicinal cannabis cultivator Cannai Farm partnered with Federation TAFE to provide practical hands-on learning for the inaugural cohort of nine students. For two years, Cannai Farm owner Bryce Lawrence has cultivated and produced medicinal cannabis to supply a burgeoning market as taboos around the plant begin to break down. Mr Lawrence said Australians were finally recognising the legitimate medicinal benefits of cannabis. “I think we’re finally getting to the point now where from a societal point of view and from a medical science point of view as well, we under-
stand the benefit that the plants can have on a lot of different ailments in society,” he said. While red tape is slowly being cut, Mr Lawrence said Australia needs to remove more hurdles so it can “claim its stake” as a world leader in cannabis cultivation. “Still 80 per cent of the medicinal cannabis in Australia is imported from overseas. “So I think that’s a really big thing for us, trying to explain how important it is to have a domestic industry and be able to build a workforce like what we’re hopefully doing with Fed Uni,” he said. Federation TAFE pro vice-chancellor Darren Gray said Federation University Australia identified a skills gap in cannabis cultivation in the country. “Being able to identify where a skills need will be now and into the future allows us to work with employers and peak bodies to co-design courses, and this is an example of that. “Working closely with Cannai to develop an Australian-first accredited program in medicinal cannabis cultivation and production is critical for the skills for new and emerging industries,” Mr
Gray said. The inaugural course is a pilot program which only just begun after nearly three years of development. Constant regulatory change has made it difficult to design a course that reflects current needs in the industry. But the course received “well over 100” expressions of interest, indicating high demand from students. Student Isaiah was one of the lucky nine who were chosen for the pilot program. From the Surf Coast, he’s always been interested in environmentalism and the course immediately piqued his interest. He said he enjoys working with the plants and watching them grow. “We got to take some cuttings from some mother plants a couple of weeks ago, and so we’re getting to see the progress of the plant and see the different expressions of the phenotypes of the selected genetics that these guys have.” “We’re looking for this course to just push a bit of stigma out of the way about the plant and its
benefits.” Medicinal Cannabis Council of Australia chief executive officer Fiona Patton said current regulations around the industry were “not fit for purpose”. “When this legislation was introduced 10 years ago, there wasn’t a single person growing medicinal cannabis in Australia. “The unnecessary hoops that they put cultivators and manufacturers through, hoops, I might add, that many of the imported products do not have to go through. She called for a “common sense approach” to reform, cutting unnecessary red tape and allowing farms like Cannai Farm to lead the way in a billion-dollar industry here in Australia. For Mr Lawrence, the partnership between Cannai Farm and Federation University was a great start to what could be a training site for many cohorts to come. “We’re loving the partnership and loving the energy that the students bring here, and hoping that we can have many more successful cohorts up here in the future.”
Long-term plan is needed, conservationists say, amid funding The Victorian government has allocated an additional $1.7 million to tackle the state’s expanding feral deer population, focusing on vulnerable habitats, farmlands, and outer-suburban communities. The new funding targets high-priority regions where invasive deer cause significant damage to native vegetation, agricultural land, and local ecosystems. Of the total package, $1 million is earmarked for Melbourne’s eastern fringe, including the Dandenong Ranges National Park, Yarra Ranges, Knox, and Cardinia, to prevent deer from encroaching on urban neighbourhoods and private land. A further $500,000 will go toward sambar and hog deer management at Wilsons Promontory, complementing an ongoing project to construct a pest-exclusion fence. Environment Minister Jaclyn Symes emphasised the practical focus of the expanded operations. “Deer damage forests, farms and native habitat – we’re stepping up control where they’re doing the most harm,” Ms Symes said. “Whether it’s controlling deer at Wilsons Prom, protecting the Dandenong Ranges or getting better data on where they are – we’re taking practical action to reduce their impact across the state.” The control measures will be managed by the
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Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), Parks Victoria, local councils, and private landholders, prioritising public safety alongside environmental recovery. Additionally, $200,000 has been granted to the Arthur Rylah Institute to update Victoria’s official deer population estimates to better direct future culling efforts. Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino highlighted the regional relief the funds aim to bring to affected communities. “This funding is a welcome recognition of the unique challenges we face in the hills and will help tackle a problem that affects our environment, growers, road users and the broader community,” Ms De Martino said. While the Invasive Species Council welcomed the funding boost, the conservation group warned that a short-term financial injection is insufficient given the massive scale of the infestation across Victoria. “This new funding is a welcome investment, but it needs to be the start of sustained action on Victoria’s growing feral deer problem - not just a plan for the election,” Invasive Species Council Advocacy Director Reece Pianta said. “But $1.7 million is still tiny compared with the scale of Victoria’s feral deer problem. Victoria needs a much bigger and longer-term commitment to bring deer numbers under control.”
A funding announcement of $1.7 million by the Victorian Government will target high-priority regions like the Yarra Ranges to control feral deer populations. (Supplied) Under current Victorian regulations, landholders are permitted to manage pest deer on private property without prior authorisation, except for protected hog deer. However, the Invasive Species Council argues that regulatory hurdles and lack of long-term support continue to hinder effective regional management. “Communities and land managers have been calling for stronger action on feral deer for years. It’s good to see the Victorian government responding to those concerns,” Mr Pianta said. “Feral deer don’t disappear after election day. Victoria needs ongoing funding that gives communities and land managers certainty that control will continue year after year.”
Mr Pianta urged the government to reinstate dedicated support roles and focus on prevention in areas where deer populations remain small. “The government should restore community deer coordinator roles to help land managers coordinate control and navigate the complexities created by Victoria continuing to protect feral deer as game,” he said. “We also need renewed investment in eradication in western Victoria, where deer numbers are still relatively low and eradication remains achievable. This is our chance to stop deer becoming the enormous problem in the west that they already are in eastern Victoria. Waiting until deer are widespread across western Victoria will make the problem far more difficult and expensive to deal with, while allowing more damage to native vegetation, waterways and wildlife habitat.” The $1.7 million package builds on $4.4 million in existing annual funding under the Victorian Deer Control Strategy. Conservation groups maintain that transforming this strategy into a permanent, statewide eradication program remains vital. “This announcement is a good step. Now we need to turn it into lasting action - ongoing investment, restored community coordinators, regulatory reform and eradication in western Victoria,” Mr Pianta said.
Tuesday, 6 October, 2026 | MAIL 7
HEALTH & WELLNESS 12882428-AD28-26
All-female dental clinic Valley Dental Family Clinic is an all-female clinic based in Lilydale. The clinic is owned by Dr Rupali Prabhu and Dr Sonali Prabhu. Rupali graduated from dental school in 1999. She has worked in private and public community clinics both in, and around Melbourne. She has also lived out of the city, spending a period of time in Benalla in rural Victoria. Rupali is passionate about providing high quality dental care and takes pleasure in sharing a story and a laugh with her patients. She enjoys all aspects of dentistry and always strives to provide dental treatment in a relaxing and comfortable environment. Rupali believes her practice and approach to dentistry creates an experience that will change your notion of what a trip to the dentist is. Outside of work she loves to spend time with family and her young children, sharing her passion for reading and travelling with them at every opportunity. Sonali graduated from dental school in 2003. She has worked as a dentist in both community and private practices. She has also worked various roles within the dental industry. Sonali believes that your mouth is the gateway to better wellbeing, and that a great healthy smile will leave a great lasting impression on people. Sonali loves interacting with patients and ensuring they are comfortable and at-ease. She enjoys all aspects of dentistry. She particularly loves working with older clients. In her spare time, she loves cooking delicious Indian dishes and enjoying time with her family and friends. The third dentist joined the Valley Dental
Come see the team at Valley Dental. (Supplied) team two years ago and has been an integral part of the team ever since. With over 10 years of experience, Merhaz believes that world-class dentistry should be delivered to each and every patient. Mehraz has a keen interest in aesthetic dentistry and is studying a certificate of Cosmetic Dentistry to introduce lip and cheek fillers to the clinic for Valley Dental patients. Rupali said being an all-female team, patients were treated with care and compassion. “Staff are very approachable and compas-
sionate making everyone feel at ease coming to the dentist,“ she said. The clinic offers a wide range of dental services, including general dentistry, fillings, crowns, bridges and veneers. Take advantage of current specials, including a check up, clean and three X-rays for just $227, and in-chair whitening $500. For an appointment phone 9737 6453 Get the best care and treatment at Valley Dental. (Stewart Chambers: 471210)
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Welcome, Dr Nolan A whole-person approach to general practice Healesville Medical Centre is pleased to welcome Dr Michayla Nolan to the team. Dr Nolan is a GP registrar with the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM), completing her training in general practice. She brings a warm, thoughtful approach to care and a strong commitment to regional communities. Since graduating from medical school in 2018, Dr Nolan has worked mainly in regional hospitals and general practices. That experience has given her broad clinical skills and a real appreciation for the part a local GP plays in the lives of patients and their families. Having recently moved to the surrounds, she is looking forward to becoming part of the Healesville community. Caring for the whole person Dr Nolan has a strong interest in holistic and integrative care. She believes good health is shaped by much more than a single symptom or diagnosis. Sleep, nutrition, movement, stress, relationships and environment all play a part. In her consultations, she thoughtfully combines conventional medical care with evidence-informed lifestyle and complementary approaches, aiming to support each patient’s overall wellbeing, not just the reason for their visit. She works in partnership with her patients. Dr Nolan takes a patient-centred approach, listening carefully, explaining options clearly and making decisions together, so that treatment plans fit each person’s values, goals
and circumstances. She offers a caring and unhurried space to talk about health concerns that matter. Education and empowerment Dr Nolan holds a Graduate Certificate in Health Professionals Education and is passionate about teaching. She enjoys supporting the development of fellow health professionals and, just as importantly, helping patients understand their own health. She believes that clear, accessible, evidence-based information empowers people to take an active role in their care. Getting to know Dr Nolan Outside the clinic, Dr Nolan loves spending time outdoors in nature, and can often be found chasing after her much-loved little dachshunds. The Yarra Valley’s beautiful surroundings have made her feel right at home. Dr Nolan is now welcoming new patients at Healesville Medical Centre. To book an appointment, call 03 5962 4379 or book online at healesvillemedicalcentre.com.
Dr Michayla Nolan has joined the Healesville Medical Centre team. (Supplied)
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NEWS
Local project recognised By Gabriella Vukman A Yarra Ranges project aiming to restore a significant section of the Yarra River floodplain has been recognised for its collaborative approach to environmental and cultural restoration. The Yarra Ranges Council’s Yering Billabongs Project was named the winner of the Stronger Together Award at the 2026 MAVlab Innovation Awards, which recognise innovative work across Victorian local government. The project is being facilitated by the Council in partnership with Melbourne Water and the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation. It aims to restore about 60 hectares of floodplain along the Yarra River and Olinda Creek, improving biodiversity and water quality while creating opportunities for cultural, recreational and environmental use. MAV chief innovator in residence Bonnie Shaw said the project stood out because of the scale and complexity of the challenge it addressed. “We were thrilled to see a project like the Yering Billabongs Project recognised by the MAVlab Innovation Awards judges. “It’s a wonderful example of outstanding collaboration, it addressed a complex and largescale challenge and there were significant outcomes achieved. “It’s a great example of how councils can transform systems, tackle complex challenges and create approaches that endure when they work alongside communities, partners and practitioners.” The Yering site forms part of the Yarra River floodplain and has previously been cleared of native vegetation and used for cattle grazing. The waterways have also been substantially modified over time, reducing the frequency and duration of flooding across the floodplain. The project was established in response to the degradation of the floodplain ecosystem and the need to reconnect the Olinda Creek floodplain with natural hydrological processes. The project is designed to restore some of those natural processes by reconnecting the Olinda Creek floodplain. During periods of high flow, water can be diverted from Olinda Creek into naturally occurring depressions across the floodplain. A water gate controls the flow, allowing the area to fill during cooler and wetter months before being closed during warmer periods.
Spadonis Yarra River connecting to the Olinda Creek floodplain. (Supplied). The restored floodplain is intended to provide habitat for native plants and animals while helping filter sediment and pollutants, improve water quality and store carbon. More than 3,000 plants were established across the site, while 35 hectares is being actively managed for weed control. Weed management and revegetation work will be undertaken across the site, with Melbourne Water, Yarra Ranges Council and the Narrap Rangers involved in its ongoing management. The project also has a strong cultural component, with the partners working with Traditional Owners to recognise the significance of the area and incorporate cultural knowledge and interpretation. A Cultural Values Assessment helped guide the restoration process, and the site was formally co-named in Woi-wurrung as Dhurran Reserve and Yurna Ngarret Billabongs. The project has also delivered the first cultural burn on the land since colonisation, with an ongoing cultural burning program now established. Narrap Rangers continue to lead land management and monitoring activities on Country. One of the project’s longer-term goals is to establish an ephemeral wetland reserve that can be accessed and enjoyed throughout the year. Plans could eventually include paths, boardwalks and viewing platforms, allowing visitors to experience the floodplain and its changing environment. The future reserve could also provide oppor-
tunities for visitors to learn about Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung culture and the significance of the Birrarung and life on Country. The project has engaged more than 150 students through planting and cultural learning programs, while community events have increased awareness of the site’s cultural and environmental significance. More than $1.4 million in State Government funding has also been secured to support restoration, collaborative management and stewardship of the site. Acting director of planning and sustainable futures at yarra ranges council Damian Closs said the MAV award acknowledges the leadership of Traditional Owners and the collaborative approach that embedded cultural knowledge, scientific expertise and shared decision-making throughout the project. “This is a significant recognition of what can be achieved when organisations move beyond traditional partnership models and work together towards a shared vision,” he said. “The award recognises the collective effort of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, Melbourne Water, DEECA, Ecology and Restoration Australia and other partners who came together with Council to restore and care for this important cultural and environmental landscape.” “The award reinforces that some of our most complex environmental challenges can only be addressed through genuine partnerships and
long-term commitment.” Mr Closs said the project demonstrated the importance of bringing different forms of knowledge and expertise together from the outset. “One of the most important lessons from the Yering Billabongs Project is that the best outcomes occur when Traditional Owners’ knowledge, community values and technical expertise are brought together from the outset and given equal weight in decision-making,” he said. “The project showed the importance of investing in relationships, creating shared governance structures and being willing to adapt as circumstances change.” According to Mr Closs, the challenge of reconnecting the Olinda Creek floodplain extended beyond environmental restoration. “It involved restoring an area of deep cultural significance for the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people while navigating complex land tenure arrangements, hydrological uncertainty, evolving governance structures and community concerns about flooding impacts,” he said. “No single organisation had the expertise, authority or resources to address these challenges alone, making collaboration essential to the project’s success.” Mr Closs said the model developed through the Yering Billabongs Project had strong potential to be applied to future environmental, waterway restoration and climate resilience projects across Yarra Ranges. MAV’s chief innovator in residence Bonnie Shaw said the project’s recognition could help other councils learn from the approach taken at Yering. “Successful collaboration is rarely the fastest path, but it is often the most effective. It requires organisations to invest time in building trust, establishing shared goals and creating governance arrangements that enable collective action.” The MAVlab Innovation Awards recognised 15 Victorian council projects and leaders across 12 categories in 2026. The Yering Billabongs Project was one of 40 finalist projects documented through the MAVlab Innovation Library, which aims to share examples of new approaches being developed across local governments. Ms Shaw said the recognition could help successful council projects have an impact beyond their original communities. “Recognition through the MAVlab Innovation Awards helps great council initiatives achieve impact beyond their municipality.”
Funding flows to the Yarra Ranges from Tiny Towns Fund By Gabriella Vukman Communities across the Yarra Ranges and Cardinia Shires are set to benefit from new infrastructure, environmental and community initiatives after 11 projects in the shire received funding through the Victorian Government’s Tiny Towns Fund. With Round 3 interface and regional projects announced and approved in June, the next few months are set to be a busy period of community project delivery, with Tiny Towns grant recipients bringing their funded projects to life before the 18-month grant period. The funding is aimed at improving facilities and public spaces in smaller towns, while supporting community connection, local businesses and visitation. A sea of projects are underway, ranging from upgrades to historic community halls and recreation facilities to public art, environmental works and improvements to community infrastructure. Yarra Ranges Council built environment and infrastructure director Anita Curnow said investment in smaller communities could have benefits beyond individual projects. “Yarra Ranges Council is home to diverse, vibrant communities, each with their own unique character and priorities.” “Funding programs like Tiny Towns recognise the value of investing in our smaller communities with a population of under 5000 people.” “The Council is closely connected with our communities and actively pursues a range of funding opportunities to help deliver local projects.” A Victorian Government spokesperson said the Tiny Towns Fund was designed to recognise the importance of local spaces and infrastruc10 MAIL | Tuesday, 6 October, 2026
ture in smaller rural and regional communities. “The Carroll Labor Government introduced the Tiny Towns Fund to acknowledge the important role of local spaces and infrastructure in our smaller towns in rural and regional areas and the communities that value them.” “For a relatively small investment, these projects can have powerful outcomes for the local community.” The government said 11 projects had been funded in the Yarra Ranges, with 10 led by local community organisations and one led by the shire. Funding was allocated on merit, with individual towns limited to a maximum of $50,000 to allow support to be spread across communities. The projects reflect a range of local priorities, including accessibility, environmental protection, community facilities, public art and economic development. Among the projects receiving funding is the Coldstream Station Activation Stage 2 project, which received $39,720 to improve the station precinct and pump track. The project will deliver a trackside shelter, public barbecue and new furniture, alongside improvements to the pump track and car park entry. Community feedback helped shape the project, with Yarra Ranges Council receiving 49 contributions from 44 contributors. Feedback included the need for facilities catering to different skill levels, as well as more seating and shade. The community also highlighted the importance of making the track suitable for BMX, mountain bikes, scooters and skateboards. A $50,000 project will also support the refurbishment of Kallista Mechanics Institute Hall,
A wave of community project activity is about to get underway, with Tiny Towns grant recipients having 18 months to deliver their projects. (Hannah Busing: unsplash). which has served the community since 1913. The grant has already helped the volunteer-run hall committee undertake works including replacing damaged stumps, improving the entrance and access ramp, renovating the kitchen and creating a dedicated meeting room. The committee said the improvements had already resulted in increased bookings, demonstrating demand for a functional community venue. The remaining works include bathroom renovations and car park improvements, with the aim of making the hall more accessible and inclusive. The hall is also being considered as a potential community emergency hub for Kallista and surrounding areas. Chairman of the Kallista Mechanics Institute Hall Chris Job said the funding had provided an opportunity to complete works that would otherwise have been difficult for a small volunteer organisation to fund. “Small community facilities provide much more than just a physical venue.” “They provide places for people to meet, or-
ganise activities, celebrate important occasions and maintain connections within the community.” “For a small community such as Kallista, maintaining and improving a facility of this kind also means preserving an important part of the town’s history while ensuring that it remains useful for future generations.” Elsewhere, $50,000 has been awarded to Yarra Valley ECOSS in Wesburn to connect five buildings to a new onsite sewer treatment plant, including two new toilets, one of which will be accessible. Badger Creek Hall received $16,300 for improvements to internal lighting and fans, as well as new car park lighting designed to improve safety and security. In Olinda, $45,500 will fund asphalting around the Olinda Reserve Social Rooms, addressing an uneven and rutted area. Yellingbo’s Indigenous Nursery will receive $45,375 for refurbishment of its public-facing areas, landscaping and local artwork. A $50,000 grant for Yarra Junction will support a public art project involving community workshops, with plans for murals, sculptures, streetscaping and lighting. In Millgrove, $46,800 will go towards revitalising the Yarra River Reserve through a land management plan, weed control, conservation training, interpretive signage and community working bees. The Warburton Bowls Club received $40,000 for infrastructure and building upgrades designed to improve spectator inclusion for people of all abilities and family circumstances. With Tiny Towns Fund projects needing to be completed within 18 months from the execution of the grant agreement, locals can expect plenty of project activity over the coming months.
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Win is a vote of confidence By Oliver Winn Upper Yarra families have voted family day care educator Danielle Kennedy as the region’s best for this year’s Excellence in Family Day Care Awards. Ms Kennedy was named the Yarra Valley and High Country Regional Winner on 1 Octobe for her commitment to delivering high-quality early childhood education and care at Launching Place-based Bush Kids Family Day Care. She said she was “quite humbled” that so many local families believed in her family day care service. “The comments have been quite nice, and it’s a really humbling feeling. I really appreciate the families that had voted for me, what they’ve said, and how that’s made me feel.” Celebrating its 15th year in 2026, the Excellence in Family Day Care Awards is the only national awards program dedicated exclusively to family day care. Family day care provides early childhood professionals across the country the unique opportunity to run their own business from home and support local families with access to high-quality early learning. The awards celebrate family day care and raise awareness about the benefits it brings as an alternative to conventional day care centres and kinders. Family Day Care Australia chief executive officer Andrew Paterson congratulated Danielle on her achievement. “Danielle represents the dedication, passion and care that sit at the heart of family day care. Every day, Danielle creates a nurturing environment where children can learn, grow and thrive, while building strong and meaningful relationships with children and families. “We are proud to celebrate Danielle’s achieve-
Children spend a lot of time outdoors and developing their independence in a safe environment. (Supplied)
Ms Kennedy cares for a small group of children per day at her Bush Kids Family Day Care service. (Supplied) ment and the valuable contribution she makes to families and her local community,” Mr Paterson said. Unhappy with high children-to-teacher ratios, financial restrictions and highly structured environments, Ms Kennedy started Bush Kids Family Day Care after working as an early childhood educator for 22 years. She said her family day care service is guided by strong relationships built with families and children, offering a smaller-scale service by car-
ing for only four children a day. “That’s one of the foundations that my service is built on, is the relationships with families and children. I think it all comes down to the relationships, the trust, the security that the parents have and the children have being in a small group,” she said. She prioritises outdoor playtime with the children and avoids limiting them to four walls. “For my service, a lot of our play is outdoors, so ninety per cent of our time is spent outdoors.
“We enjoy the natural environment and also the animal encounters or animal interactions.” Mr Paterson said over 4200 nominations from families were received across the country. “Behind every nomination is a story of an educator or service making a positive difference in the lives of children and families, and Danielle’s recognition as a Regional Winner is something their whole community can be proud of,” Mr Paterson said. Ms Kennedy said winning the regional award meant Upper Yarra families had placed a vote of confidence in her ability to care for children. “The families voted for this, so obviously the families have that trust and that reflects on my services. “Other people looking for a family daycare service will see that this award has been through the merit of the work I do, but also families’ trust and families’ own feelings and thoughts,” she said.
AusPost grant sows the seed for mental health workshops By Oliver Winn
Katu Katu members during a workshop. (Supplied) Grants builds on more than a decade of support and over 1000 grants awarded to groups across Australia. Australia Post community and stakeholder engagement general manager Nicky Tracey said local groups like Katu Katu are best placed to understand what their communities need to feel supported and connected, particularly in remote, rural and disaster-prone areas. “Strong local networks can make a real difference to how people feel supported and connected, particularly in communities experiencing chal-
lenges. “These grants are designed to back organisations at the heart of their community, that understand the people they serve and create practical ways to bring them together and support their wellbeing. “We’re proud to continue investing in initiatives across Australia, including in rural, remote and disaster-affected communities where local support can be especially important,” Ms Tracey said. Mr Tjampitjinpa Aziz said the Growing Connections workshop planted the seed for better mental health and wellbeing among the Upper Yarra community. “Our hope is that Growing Connections will create a place where strangers can become neighbours, people can share knowledge and stories, and a garden can become a community.” The group is now inviting expressions of interest from anyone interested in taking part in Growing Connections, including people who may be feeling socially isolated, mature-age community members, and people from refugee and multicultural backgrounds. Find out more at their website: katukatu.com. au.
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A $10,000 grant will help sow the seed for new wellbeing workshops at a not-for-profit mental health organisation in the Upper Yarra. Katu Katu Inc received the grant from Australia Post’s Community Grant program to further develop its Growing Connections workshops, providing a crucial mental health service for Upper Yarra locals. Katu Katu president Mem Tjampitjinpa Aziz said Growing Connections will help the group create a welcoming space where people can connect naturally, form friendships and strengthen their sense of belonging and wellbeing. “The idea is quite simple: sometimes wellbeing can begin with something as simple as planting a seed together. “Rather than people having to walk into a formal mental health setting, we want to create a relaxed and welcoming environment where people can do something meaningful together, friendships can develop naturally, and people can feel that they belong,” Mr Tjampitjinpa Aziz said. The grant provided the group the materials, plants, equipment, activities and practical support
needed to make the workshops accessible to the community. Mr Tjampitjinpa Aziz said the group was “incredibly grateful” to receive the grant. “As a small 100 per cent volunteer-run organisation, receiving this support from Australia Post means a great deal to us. “It gives us both the resources and confidence to bring the project to life and reach more people in our community,” he said. Formed in 2020, Katu Katu is a not-for-profit community organisation which aims to support people’s mental health by helping them connect with nature, Country, culture and each other. The group’s philosophy is that connection to land and community plays an important role in wellbeing. Katu Katu draws upon Indigenous cultural values which guide its workshops. The name Katu Katu comes from the Warlpiri language, meaning to “rise” or “higher ground”, and is comparable to “glass half full” in English. The group hosts guided mindful bushwalks, bush tucker workshops, native wildlife awareness, didgeridoo workshops and art therapy workshops. Australia Post’s 2026 round of Community
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Retirement living with heart Where the Yarra Valley meets the Dandenong Ranges, Lilydale Valley Views offers more than a place to live, it’s a vibrant community where retirement is enjoyed to the fullest. For over 15 years, the village has grown into a welcoming environment where residents feel at home. With 139 residences, including semi attached two and three bedroom units and cosy terraces, there is a style to suit every preference. Whether it’s sweeping valley views or the ease of low maintenance living, each home is designed for comfort and connection. Lifestyle is at the heart of Lilydale Valley Views. A heated indoor pool and spa provide year round relaxation, while Tai Chi, dancercise, and other group activities keep minds and bodies active. A strong sense of community sets the village apart. The resident social committee organises a calendar filled with outings, celebrations, and casual get togethers, ensuring there are always opportunities to connect. Friendships form quickly and newcomers are warmly welcomed, making it easy to feel part of the community from day one. The location adds to the appeal. Doctors, supermarkets, and the train station are all within walking distance, while the nearby Warburton Trail offers scenic walks and bike rides. On site, a thriving veggie and flower garden brings people together in the simple pleasure of growing and sharing. It is this blend of convenience, activity, and companionship that makes Lilydale Valley Views such a special place. Here, retirement is not about slowing down, but about enjoying life surrounded by people who value the same. We invite you to experience it for yourself. Discover the comfort of terrace living, the beauty of the views, and the warmth of a truly
Come see if Lilydale Valley Views is the place for you or your loved ones. (Supplied) connected community. For more information, visit us at 471 Ma-
roondah Highway, Lilydale, email manager@ lilydalevalleyviews.com.au, or call 03 9735 5944
to speak with our manager, Rosemary Seymour. Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm.
A better retirement lifestyle 9735 5944
Be part of a vibrant Community and enjoy the Facilities Monthly calendar of events 24 Hour Emergency Assistance Fully equipped gym Heated indoor pool
Hairdresser, Massage & Podiatry services 4-rink Bowling Green Entertainment Lounge Library and Computer Room
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Close to all amenities - health professionals, Supermarkets, public transport Village volunteers can assists you around the house
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Reducing social isolation Social isolation can affect anyone. It may develop following retirement, illness, the loss of a loved one, changes in relationships, financial pressure or difficulty accessing transport. Living in a regional community can also make it harder for some people to stay connected. Social isolation is more than simply spending time alone. It occurs when someone has limited contact with others or feels disconnected from their community. Over time, this can affect a person’s mental health, physical wellbeing, and sense of purpose. Loneliness can be equally challenging. A person may have people around them but still feel alone or that they don’t belong. The importance of social inclusion Social inclusion means ensuring everyone has opportunities to participate, build relationships and feel valued within their community. This may involve joining a local group, volunteering, taking part in sport, attending a community event or simply having a regular place to meet others. Small connections can make a meaningful difference. Healesville and Yarra Glen have strong community spirit and a wide range of local organisations, sporting clubs, neighbourhood groups and volunteer opportunities. These activities help people develop friendships, learn new skills and strengthen their connection to the area. Social inclusion doesn’t need to begin with a major commitment. It might start with: ■ Attending a local community activity. ■ Joining a walking, gardening, arts or social group. ■ Volunteering for a local organisation or event. ■ Visiting the library or neighbourhood house. ■ Reconnecting with a sporting or cultural club. ■ Checking in with a neighbour, friend or family
Looking after your mental health is for all stages of life. (iStock) member. ■ Inviting someone for a coffee or a short walk. We all have a role to play Creating an inclusive community is a shared responsibility. A friendly conversation, an invitation to attend an activity or offering practical support can help someone feel seen and welcomed. If you haven’t seen someone for a while, consider reaching out. Ask how they’re going and take the time to listen. That simple contact may
be more important than you realise. Local groups can also help by making activities welcoming, affordable and accessible. Clear information, friendly introductions and support for first-time attendees can reduce the anxiety people may experience when entering an unfamiliar environment. Support is available If you or someone you know is feeling isolated, lonely or disconnected, support is available. The Mental Health and Wellbeing Local pro-
vides free mental health and wellbeing support for people aged 26 and over, including help to reconnect with community activities and services. You don’t need a referral, or Medicare card. You can simply drop in or call for a friendly chat. Call 1300 000 252 or visit the team at Lower Ground, 61-65 Anderson Street, Lilydale during weekday hours (9am – 5pm). Because your mental health matters, at every stage of life and there is always someone ready to listen.
Need someone to talk to? We’re here for you If you’re going through a difficult time or simply want a friendly chat, our dedicated team of mental health professionals and peer workers with lived experience are here to listen and support you. Support is free, confidential, and available without a referral or Medicare card. Call 1300 000 252 or visit us at Lower Ground, 61–65 Anderson Street, Lilydale
Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Lilydale (servicing Yarra Ranges) is delivered by Wellways in partnership with Eastern Health, Access Health and Community and Oonah Health and Community Services Aboriginal Corporation and is funded by the Victorian Government.
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Residents are ready to enjoy Olinda Lodge at Hamlet Lilydale (Supplied)
Olinda Lodge: a living room to be shared Hamlet is building the clubhouse alongside its first homes, so there’s a sundowner on the terrace awaiting every new homeowner. When co-founders Cecelia Hund and James Kelly first started sketching out Hamlet Lilydale, they kept coming back to the same thought: a community is so much more than the house you live in. It’s the neighbour you wave to on a morning walk, the friend who drops by with lemons from their tree, the place to go for company, and the place to come back to for solitude. At Hamlet, community is as important to the idea of home as the houses are. And that means the Lodge. Olinda Lodge is the clubhouse at the heart of Hamlet Lilydale, a boutique over 50s community at 375 Swansea Road. The founders have never thought of it as a showpiece for sales, but as an extended living room for their homeowners. Why it’s called Olinda Lodge The name comes from Olinda Creek, which the Lodge overlooks. And “lodge” because that’s exactly how the team hopes it feels - like a ski lodge homeowners can pop in and out of all day long. Cecelia and James picture a morning coffee at the kitchen bar, the paper spread out on the bench. A Pilates class, or a workout in the cardio room. A seat in a tucked-away corner of the lounge to get some work done or get lost in a book. Then, as the afternoon wears on, friends drifting in to catch up over a glass of Giant Steps Pinot Noir. No one ever needs a reason to be there. Made for Lilydale Working closely with their architects and interior designers, the founders chose every amenity in the Lodge and the community around it with the people of the Yarra Ranges in mind. They didn’t want a checklist of features that could be found anywhere in Victoria, that look great in a brochure but never get used. They wanted a place that belongs here, made for the people who call this part of the world home. That’s why there’s a pickleball court, not a lawn bowls green - Hamlet would much rather see its homeowners bowling at Lilydale Bowls Club just up the road. It’s why there are Hamlet e-bikes for the lake trails, and a nature play space for when the grandkids visit, not a golf simulator. And it’s why there’s a chicken coop, vegetable gardens and a dog run, not a cinema. The thinking is simple: create a neighbourhood where people who already love this part of the world feel instantly at home. Built alongside the first homes Too often, the clubhouse comes last. People 14 MAIL | Tuesday, 6 October, 2026
See inside Olinda Lodge, the Hamlet Lilydale Clubhouse. (Supplied) move in, and the heart of the place is still a fencedoff promise months down the track. Hamlet didn’t want that for its homeowners. Olinda Lodge is being built at the same time as the first homes. The people who move in first - the pioneers, as the Hamlet team has come to know them - will be able to enjoy it first. They’re the ones who’ll set the tone for everyone who follows, and they deserve somewhere to gather from the beginning. Warming by the fire If there’s one thing the team is most excited about, it’s the fireplace. It’s the real heart of the Lodge. On a cool Yarra Valley evening, it’s easy to picture people pulling their chairs a little closer, warming their hands and letting the conversation run over dinner. Long summer days When the weather warms up, life spills out onto the terrace. There’s a BBQ and a firepit, and plenty of room for the long lunches, sunset drinks and birthday gatherings that make summer feel like summer. Homeowners can bring the kids, the grandkids and their oldest friends. It’s their place to host, just as they would at home. Evenings to unwind And at the end of the day, there’s the sauna and spa, tucked into a secluded walled garden. It’s a small indulgence just a few steps from home, and Cecelia suspects it’ll become a ritual for many.
Hamlet’s sauna and spa will be the perfect way to end your day. (Supplied) Surrounded by gardens The Lodge sits within beautiful gardens that flow out into the wider community, where more than 65% of the site is kept as open, green space, including a 2 hectare creekside habitat. There’s a shared vegetable garden and a chicken coop for anyone who’d like to get their hands dirty, or simply enjoy what’s growing. And Bellbird Park and Lillydale Lake are right next door. Shaping a community, together Hamlet isn’t just delivering homes, it’s shaping a community - alongside the people who choose
to live here. “We’re excited about our new home, but it’s the Lodge we can’t stop talking about,” said Paul and Kaye, who will be among the first to move in. “We can picture Sunday afternoons by the fire and the family visiting us on the terrace in summer. Plus great neighbours to share it with - what could be better?” That’s exactly what the founders hoped for. Olinda Lodge belongs to the people who live here, and the Hamlet team can’t wait to see them make it their own.
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Live among friends, not a crowd A boutique over 50s community in Lilydale. Just 10 homes left at Pioneer pricing, from $845,000.
We chose the name Hamlet because it reflects something special: a small, close-knit community where neighbours become friends. With just 50 homes, Hamlet Lilydale offers a genuine sense of belonging. Olinda Lodge, our thoughtfully designed clubhouse, is the heart of our community. A welcoming place to meet friends over coffee, enjoy a workout, or simply unwind with a good book. It’s a space you’ll naturally return to, day after day.
Book your personal consultation today with Marion. Visit hamletliving.com.au or call 0482 672 325.
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NEWS
It’s everything Millgrove The Millgrove Residents Action Group’s (MRAG) fifth annual Expo Open Day will kick off on Sunday 11 October, promising a day brimming with community, connection and creativity. It takes place from 10.30am to 2.30pm at the CFA and Memorial Reserve. With an emphasis on fire and weather emergency preparedness, the Wesburn-Millgrove CFA and the Upper Yarra SES will be out showcasing what they provide in times of need. It will also be a great chance for locals and visitors to learn some valuable fire preparation knowledge as the fire season kicks in for the year. “This activity is fundamentally a proactive resilience capacity, for a geographically vulnerable
township to natural disaster,” MRAG said of the event. Numerous stalls offer a range of goods. This includes stalls by the Eastern Regional Library, the Yarra Ranges Council, U3A, Scouts and many more. “This day has become a much anticipated event, where local people and organisations get to share information about services, products and opportunities to other locals.” “It will be a family friendly, happy and vibrant event, with free magic performances, roving artists and bubbles on stilts, children’s activities, and interesting hobby club displays, to name some of the entertainment,” MRAG said.
MRAG’s last open day was a huge hit among the community. (Supplied) It is a key event for not-for-profits to reach out to residents to engage with potential new members.
Macro photograph is a winner By Oliver Winn The Upper Yarra’s best photographers took out top prizes amid tough competition for the Upper Yarra Community Enterprise’s (UYCE) 2027 Community Calendar Competition on 18 September. Twelve entrants shared $2300 in prize money across multiple categories. This year, Upper Yarra Secondary College student A’isha Strbac won the Judges’ Choice award with her image, Silver Dew – a gorgeously textured black-and-white macro photograph of a dew-dappled maple leaf. It’s the Year 10 student’s latest accolade after winning the senior school category in last year’s Sustainability Victoria’s Through Your Own Lens photography competition. A’isha said she was “surprised and thrilled” to have won the award. “There was an amazing selection of great entries and I am very grateful for this opportunity to submit local photography in a fun, annual contest. Thank you to the all the staff at Bendigo Bank, the judges, and everyone else involved in this calendar competition,” she said. The runner-up for the Judges’ Choice was Rose Hoult, with her photograph, Sunset Over Little Joe, depicting an ardent, fiery skyscape. Competition judge Kate Baker said A’isha’s photograph showed a “beautiful sensitivity” to the extraordinary form of nature. “The drop of water invites a sense of wonder, drawing the eye in as if it were a universe within itself. The image is well constructed both technically and artistically and a worthy winner,” Ms Baker said. One of A’isha’s classmates Matis Heenan was the U18 Judges’ Choice winner with his ethereal
shot of an aurora, titled Magical Sky. Ms Baker said Matis’ image did a terrific job of depicting the aurora’s beauty. “The composition is strong, conveying a powerful sense of the expansiveness of our sky and with its glorious colour of the aurora, this image reminds us how lucky we are to live amongst such natural beauty. It’s not easy to capture the stars in this way and this is a skilful image,” she said. Matis wasn’t the only Heenan in this year’s awards, with his father, Travis Heenan, securing a highly commended award for his adrenaline-filled mountain biking photograph, Cleared For Take Off. Matis said it’s cool to win an award alongside his father. “It feels pretty good. I mean, he’s always been into photos. He’s got a few cameras,” Matis said. He said he took the photo on the O’Shannassy Aqeuduct Trail during an aurora earlier this year. “We were just taking photos with long exposure on, just on my phone, and it turned out really good,” he said. It’s not Matis’ first attempt at the Community Calendar Competition. His first taste of victory came after winning runner-up when his mother prompted him to enter the competition three years ago. But what initially started as a small hobby grew into a more serious pursuit after taking photography classes at high school. “It was last year when I did photography as a subject. I had a really good photography teacher, and she kind of inspired me to keep taking photos,” Matis said. Yarra Ranges Council O’Shannassy Ward councillor Jim Child was the other competition judge and he said the quality of this year’s entrants was outstanding.
A’isha’s picture Silver Dew won the top prize for this year’s competition. (A’isha Strbac)
Matis Heenan won the U18 Judges’ Choice with his picture, Magical Sky. (Matis Heenan)
Travis Heenan’s Cleared For Take Off depicted a thrilling shot of mountain biking action. (Travis Hennan)
“This year’s competition brought in an outstanding collection of photography capturing the natural beauty, vibrant local life, and unique spirit of our Upper Yarra community,” Cr Child said. The people’s choice category was hotly contested with two entrants taking the top spot this year.
Sarah Woodward won with her image, Forest Dreaming, alongside Hayley Wright’s Aurora Bridge. Erin Finnegan’s Where the River Turns Gold won the Branch Staff Choice award. The winning snaps will make up the bank’s 2027 community calendar and will be displayed in galleries at the bank’s branches.
Esme Macdonald claims the River Rhythms competition The 2026 Birrarung Riverfest is now underway, with the three-week festival kicking off on 27 September with singer songwriter competition River Rhythms, which took place at the Arts Centre Warburton. The event was MC-ed by Australian comedian, and this year’s Riverfest ambassador, Sammy J. Submissions were received from the community, with a wide variety of acts performed on the night all of which paid homage to the Yarra (Birrurung) River. A highlight included the Hampton family, who together performed a number of pieces including an entertaining mother (Norah) / son (James) duo; a comedic piece from son James on dropping his phone in the river; and a beautiful reflective piece by James and daughter in law Von Hampton accompanied by Peter Edney in their band Wood Duck. The competition was won by Esme Macdonald, who performed her song ‘Down to the river’ - which was about the blowing up the Yarra Falls with dynamite in 1883 (where Queens Bridge is today). These waterfalls separated fresh water from salt water, so it was done to get more fresh water down stream, reduce flooding and allow ships to travel further upstream. Birrarung Riverfest producer Carolyn Tate said the strong response to this year’s program reflected an appetite for accessible opportunities to step outside, connect with nature and community, and experience the river in new ways. “Riverfest is about bringing people together to 16 MAIL | Tuesday, 6 October, 2026
It was a fantastic way to kick off the Birrarung Riverfest. (Supplied) experience the river – all the way from Warburton to Westgate Park at the river’s mouth – because we know that when people connect with nature, they’re far more likely to care for and protect it,” she said. “It’s fantastic to see such strong interest in this year’s Riverfest with two thirds of the events being booked out before the festival began, but there are still plenty of opportunities to get involved.” Yarra Riverkeeper Association president Janet Bolitho President said the event helped bring awareness to Victoria’s most iconic waterway. “The festival shines a light on the gifts and challenges of the Yarra (Birrarung) River. It’s
under increasing pressure from urban growth, climate change, and stormwater pollution, and every small act of care matters.” Major partners for the festival include Burndap Birrarung burndap umarkoo, a collaboration which brings together Traditional Owners, government agencies and local councils to care for and protect Birrarung as one living and integrated natural entity; and Water4Good. Sammy will be leading The Big Birrarung Paddle on 10 October, where volunteers will take to the water on rowboats and on foot to remove rubbish from the river. Find out more at the link: riverfest.org.au.
Plenty of artists had a shot for this year’s singer songwriter competition River Rhythms. (Supplied)
The event took place at the Arts Centre Warburton. (Supplied)
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT
An amazing performance By Oliver Winn Two young musicians kickstarted their musical career with a fantastic live 3MDR performance on 28 September. Wandin North Primary School students Shae and Tahlee played a two-song set which showed off their guitar and vocal chops to the Yarra Ranges. It was an amazing experience for the Grade Six students, topping off an excellent performance at the Hilltop Music Festival earlier in September. Shae said it was “really, really fun” to play with her best friend live on radio. “I think that it’s really important that we get to show what we can do. A lot of kids would love to be able to do that… Hopefully other students and other kids and children are able to have the same opportunity as us,” Shae said. Shae was on the vocals while Tahlee provided the backing track with her acoustic guitar. While there were some nerves to begin with, the duo stuck it out and gave a solid performance. You wouldn’t have guessed that they were nervous though. Shae had excellent control over her vocals, singing with strength and conviction. Tahlee’s steady strumming gave the guitar a sound that was full of nuance and brightness. The duo performed a cover, Cowboy by Lily Meola, and an original, titled Daffodils and Roses. They both thanked their music teacher, Tim Ireland, for his encouragement throughout the years. “It’s just really nice to have a good music teacher like him, he just does so much for us, especially me and Tahlee at our school,” Shae said. “It’s just really nice to have a music teacher like him.” 3MDR presenter Kaye said it was a delight
having Shae and Tahlee on the show. “They were so excited to even be in the studio, let alone be live on air. It feels great to give lovely, talented kids a great experience.” She said having an original song at such a young age was an impressive feat that deserved recognition. “Young musicians are so easily discounted but Tahlee and Shae are already writing great original songs and they’re only in Grade Six,” Kaye said. Shae said they both loved to make their own music. “With our original song, we just thought it would be really nice to be able to make a song of our own instead of playing all other creators’ songs. Even though we really enjoy that too, we love to make our own,” she said. The pair’s songwriting ability is immediately apparent in their song, Daffodils and Roses. The folk-pop singer-songwriter tune has an earwormy chorus that you’ll find yourself singing along to time and time again. Tahlee’s mum, Jess, said she was so proud of the girls after 3MDR presenter Kaye approached the duo after they put on a fantastic show at the Hilltop Music Festival. “They were gobsmacked to even get the praise that they got from that performance at the time. “Then, to be approached by someone afterwards to come and do it again and do it on the radio is amazing. They were very nervous but then very, very excited,” Jess said. Tahlee said she enjoyed sharing their love for music with the rest of the Yarra Ranges. “My favourite part was getting to share our passion for music and our own song, getting it across and some people getting to hear it and enjoy it,” she said. Tahlee and Shae were invited to play live on 3MDR after an excellent performance at the Hilltop Music Festival. (Supplied)
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Many of us are feeling under cost-of-living pressure, so what’s causing the inflation the RBA acknowledges is making Australians “furious”? Households have been dealing with years of higher prices. Consumer confidence is weak, house prices have fallen and the economy is slowing. Yet inflation remains stubbornly above the Reserve Bank of Australia’s 2% to 3% target range. RBA Deputy Governor Andrew Hauser acknowledged the frustration in a recent interview with the ABC’s 7.30 program. “People want inflation down. People are furious about inflation. I understand why. It’s unfair. It hits people on low incomes. It damages price signals. It makes the job of companies difficult. What they want us to do is our job and bring inflation down,” Hauser said. The latest ABS inflation figures show annual inflation rose to 4.0% in August from 3.5% in July. Trimmed mean inflation, which strips out some of the more volatile price movements to give a better sense of the underlying trend, remained at 3.6% for the third consecutive month. The first thing to understand is that inflation doesn’t measure how much we’re buying. It measures how much prices are changing. It also doesn’t tell you how high prices have already become. Imagine something that cost $100 rises to $110 one year and then $113 the next. The rate of inflation has slowed considerably, but you’re still paying $13 more than you were before. So where is the inflation actually coming from? The short answer is: from several places at once. Some of it is coming from prices Australians can’t easily avoid. Housing was the biggest
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contributor to inflation in August, rising 5.7% over the year. Some of the pressure is also coming from overseas. Higher oil, diesel, fertiliser and other costs linked to the Middle East conflict don’t always reach consumers immediately. Businesses can absorb those costs for a while before eventually putting up their own prices and passing them through to customers. Then there’s a more structural problem: how much the Australian economy can produce. The RBA’s August Statement on Monetary Policy says the economy is still operating with capacity constraints. In other words, demand for some workers, goods and services remains stronger than the economy can comfortably supply without pushing up prices. So inflation can keep running even while parts of the economy are clearly slowing. CommBank Household Spending Insights data showed spending among Australians aged 65 and over was 10.1% higher in June than a year earlier. Spending growth among 25 to 34year-olds was just 4.2%, while 35 to 44 and 45 to 54-year-olds recorded growth of 4.5%. “Household consumption patterns diverge by age. Shifts in interest rates, inflation and wealth affect age cohorts differently, which can lead to varying rates of spending growth,” CommBank Head of Australian Economics Belinda Allen said. One obvious reason is housing debt. “These groups are more likely to have a mortgage, making them more sensitive to higher interest rates,” Allen said of the younger and middleaged groups. Higher rates can’t build more houses, lift productivity overnight or bring down the global oil price. What they can do is cool demand.
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If everyone’s feeling the squeeze, where’s all this inflation coming from?
Australians cutting back and inflation remaining too high aren’t contradictory. The squeeze
What matters most now is whether those pressures fade as the economy slows, or whether
is landing very differently across households, and many of the prices still rising are for
inflation remains persistent enough for the RBA to decide that more rate rises are needed.
things people can’t easily avoid.
Find out more at CommBank Newsroom
Tuesday, 6 October, 2026 | MAIL 17
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Wonderful paper creations By Gabriella Vukman For Healesville artist Cecilia Sharpley, eucalyptus leaves, old Italian paper and the unpredictability of nature have become the foundations of an artistic practice spanning decades. Upon first entering Ms Sharpley’s studio, the sweet musk of textured paper immediately showcases its powerful presence. Once one’s senses become used to the nostalgic scent, the display of eucalyptus leaf-printed lamps and hundreds of intricate paper creations catch the eye. Popping out against a blend of the studio’s wood and mud-brick walls, the works are quick to entrap their beholder’s attention, and are reluctant to let it go. For their creator Ms Sharpley, much of that visual impact comes from the paper itself, with its ability to shape the tone, colour, texture and shadows within each print. “I have tried all sorts of paper and I have come to the conclusion that I only get the really good prints on French and Italian hot press paper.” “I am always looking for a variation in tone and colour, and in texture with some shadowing in the background.” Ms Sharpley, who works across printing and papermaking, will open the doors of her studio for the sixth time as part of the 2026 Yarra Valley Open Studios program. Visitors will be able to see an array of lamps, prints, books and handmade artworks,most of which feature eucalyptus leaves gathered from trees around Ms Sharpley’s own garden and nature strip. Ms Sharpley first started experimenting with eucalyptus leaves back when she was teaching spinning and weaving. “I taught spinning and weaving for 13 years a long time ago and that’s where I came across eucalyptus,” she said. “I did weaving and we did natural dyeing, so I used to dye the wool with eucalyptus leaves.” Ms Sharpley moved from textiles into lettering and book arts, becoming a commercial calligrapher after studying at RMIT. Her work as a calligrapher included creating book plates for the State Library, before she eventually moved away from commercial lettering. Today, her knowledge of lettering and bookbinding remains an important part of her practice. “Creating little books has become quite a passion.” “They are quite different from each other.” “Some of them are narrative books, others are just fun to fiddle with.” When it comes to Ms Sharpley’s eco printing practice, eucalyptus leaves are prepared before being placed onto paper and cooked in little fish kettles, with the resulting prints then dried between boards and wool blankets. The process can produce striking colours and delicate impressions of leaves and stems,
Ms Sharpley said she is excited to share her work with visitors. (Gabriella Vukman: 582030).
Ms Sharpley’s studio will be open to the public for both weekends of Open Studios. (Gabriella Vukman: 582030). but Ms Sharpley said there is no guarantee of what will emerge. “If I do six prints, I’ll be lucky if there’s two or three that are good enough to be a lamp.” “Often there can be something really good on the page, but not all of it is good, so I tend to chop things up.” One of Ms Sharpley’s best prints came from a tree growing near her garden, although she has never been able to recreate that piece. According to Ms Sharpley, good prints depend on soil quality. “I thought I would thank the tree, and put some manure around it, but that has ruined the soil and I haven’t been able to get it back again.”
“I have never been able to get a good print from it since.” “I do a print from that tree every year but I keep getting grey leaves with little black blotches all around them.” Alongside the eucalyptus prints and books, Ms Sharpley has also experimented with sumi ink and salt to create handmade papers. “I just spray or brush the sumi ink onto the paper and then spray salt all over it,” she said. “It makes all these unique marks.” The resulting sheets have become books in their own right, with Ms Sharpley experimenting with different sizes and formats. For Ms Sharpley, Open Studios has become an important opportunity to share her work and connect with people who may not otherwise encounter her art. She said she initially lacked confidence in showing her work publicly. “I have enjoyed doing my artwork, but I’ve never had confidence in it being anything terribly special.” That changed after she became involved with other local artists and eventually decided to participate in Open Studios. “Participating in Opening Studios meant that I was able to sell a lot of the work I’d done, which meant I could afford to buy the paper, which is very expensive, to continue doing it.” Open Studios has also developed into an annual family effort, with Ms Sharpley’s daughter
and son-in-law travelling from Brisbane to help over the weekend, while her husband looks after the food. “Open Studios is really great.” “Quite a lot of people come back year after year, so I try to have something different every time.” Visitors receive a free bookmark and a ticket for the door prize, with Ms Sharpley planning a prize for each Open Studios weekend this year. Her visitor’s book itself reflects the handmade nature of the studio, decorated with intricate drawings and textures. For Ms Sharpley, Open Studios is also about the wider local arts community. “It is an opportunity for the artists to come together and to get to know each other.” She said the event has helped artists build connections with one another, particularly following the closure of the Yarra Valley Arts gallery. Open Studios provides another opportunity for artists and audiences to connect directly, with visitors able to step into working studios and see how the artwork is made. For Ms Sharpley, that connection has been one of the most rewarding parts of opening her doors. “You get to meet a lot of local people that you haven’t met before.” And after years of experimenting with eucalyptus leaves, paper, ink and books, there is still plenty of room for the unexpected.
Yarra Valley artist opens studio doors Acclaimed Yarra Valley artist Mary Anderson is welcoming art lovers and nature enthusiasts into her secluded 90-square-metre creative sanctuary, offering visitors a unique blend of fine art, live music, and country hospitality. Known for her vibrant works across watercolour, acrylic, and oil, Anderson’s practice balances atmospheric landscapes with deep abstraction. Drawing early inspiration from 19th-century impressionism and abstract expressionism, her paintings focus on light, movement, and emotional tone rather than strict representation. Her recent evolution toward bolder, intuitive abstraction has been heavily shaped by creative workshops and international travel across New Zealand, Scotland, Ireland, and Canada. “In a world often marked by unrest, I seek refuge in the joy of creation,” Ms Anderson said. “My hope is that these paintings offer viewers a moment of pause—an opportunity to step away from daily distractions and reconnect with beauty, cu18 MAIL | Tuesday, 6 October, 2026
Mary Anderson (centre) will be opening her studio doors for the Yarra Valley Open Studios weekend. (Oliver Winn: 517438) riosity, and quiet delight.” Visitors to the studio nestled among the trees will have the chance to explore a wide selection of original artworks spanning various sizes and mediums. The immersive weekend experience
includes live artist demonstrations, continuous musical performances, and a complimentary Devonshire Tea served by the fire. Alongside her private studio opening, Ms Anderson’s work is currently featured at The Memo
in Healesville as part of the Yarra Valley Open Studios program. The group exhibition showcases works from all participating regional artists and will remain on display throughout the month of October.
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Memories in brushstrokes By Gabriella Vukman
Visitors can see Agnes Szetey’s studio in Badger Creek. (Gabriella Vukman: 582051).
Ms Szetey has participated in Open Studios for nine years. (Gabriella Vukman: 582051). Ms Szetey has also painted extensively from the landscapes around Healesville, drawing inspiration from her fondness for the area’s landscapes. “I love Healesville. “I love the ferns. I love the tall gum trees. And I love the gushing rivers. “I can never paint enough of the local area.” Ms Szetey’s career has taken her paintings much further afield, including large works that have travelled to Poland, Manila and Hong Kong. She has also exhibited her work in galleries and won numerous prizes. Painting remains a daily part of Szetey’s life, although she now spends around four hours a day at her easel rather than the eight to 12 hours she once managed.
“I really love it,” she said. “It makes me happy.” Her Badger Creek studio will open its doors as part of the 18th annual Yarra Valley Open Studios, giving visitors the chance to meet Ms Szetey in the space where she creates her work and hear more about her approach to painting. For Ms Szetey, the event is also an opportunity to connect with people interested in art and introduce visitors to the broader creative community across the region. “Open Studios is great because many people come to the Yarra Ranges from town, and they can see what the local artists are doing.” “They fall in love with artists, and they love all of the pottery and other art forms.”
Ms Szetey said she is also happy to share her experience with people who are beginning their own artistic journey. “If anyone would like to know anything about art, how to start, or how to carry on, I’m here to help them.” “And I will not demonstrate, but I will give any advice they want.” “They can come and see me outside of Open Studios as well.” The free, self-guided Yarra Valley Open Studios program will run on 10–11 October and 24–25 October with studios open from 10am to 5pm. The program features 27 local artists across the Yarra Ranges, with studios in Healesville, Mount Evelyn, Silvan, Warburton, Yarra Junction, Yarra Glen, Chum Creek, Millgrove, Don Valley and Dixons Creek. Visitors can meet artists in their working spaces, see their creative processes and purchase original work directly from the artists. A group exhibition featuring participating artists will also be held at The Memo Healesville from 30 September to 1 November. For more information, head to yarravalleyarts.org.au
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Badger Creek artist Agnes Szetey has spent a lifetime turning memories, landscapes and the world around her into paintings, with works now held in collections across Australia and overseas. Ms Szetey, who has held 20 solo exhibitions and has paintings in 15 different countries, said she began painting when she was 12 years old. “Every morning I got up at 6am when the whole family was still asleep. “I would copy things out of coloured books and practice my painting. “My mother wanted me to become a research scientist after I won a scholarship to university, but I decided I wanted to paint. “From that day on, I just painted and painted and painted. “I haven’t looked back. And I sold and sold and sold.” Ms Szetey’s work spans a wide range of subjects, from flowers and horses to birds, desert landscapes and scenes inspired by the Yarra Ranges. Her connection to flowers is particularly strong after spending 30 years working as a florist, with poppies and roses among the works that continue to attract buyers. For Ms Szetey, painting is also about creating an emotional connection between the artwork and the person who takes it home. “I always try to express something that other people can relate to. “I think that is how people fall in love with my artwork.” One of her paintings of poppies, inspired by the area where she was born in Hungary, created a particularly memorable connection for a visitor from Western Australia. “A lady who visited my gallery said she had been through my hometown in Hungary six weeks earlier,” Ms Szetey said. “She bought the poppy painting so that she could have that memory for the rest of her life.”
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Tuesday, 6 October, 2026 | MAIL 19
NEWS
Human cost of Silvan Dam By Shamsiya Hussainpoor As we say goodbye to a dry, cold winter and head into summer, let’s turn our attention to the city’s falling water storages and the history behind it - and one part of that history is the Silvan Dam, built between 1926 and 1932 following the state’s severe drought of 1914-15. Melbourne’s water storages are now at 75.1 per cent, down from 86 per cent at the same time last year, with storages holding about 239 billion litres less than they did a year ago. Nearly a century earlier, Silvan was selected for its role in Melbourne’s expanding water network. Construction ran from 1926 to 1932, with an aerial ropeway stretching about five-kilometres from Mt Evelyn railway station to the reservoir site, carrying sand and cement in buckets to the dam wall. For Mt Evelyn, the project brought a dramatic inrush of workers and their families. Research by the Mt Evelyn History Group described Mt Evelyn as growing from an area focused on woodcutting and small fruit farms into “a base for the Sylvan Dam labour force and a bush holiday destination for many”. Mt Evelyn History Group president, Paula Herlihy said the 1920s marked a lively period in the town’s history. “Many of the local businesses were sustained by the population influx from Silvan Dam workers and the weekend holiday makers,” she said. The influx also helped boost the local school population and changed the character of the town entirely. The workforce itself was diverse. A February 1930 feature in The Argus described an “astonishingly cosmopolitan population”, including Australians, English, Germans, Norwegians, Swedes, Finns, Italians and Yugoslavs. Most workers received free accommodation in huts. At night, workers played cards, wrote letters home, played accordions and strummed banjos. But the work was dangerous, according to The Eastern Melbournian, at least seven workers died during construction. In September 1927, 20-year-old Italian migrant Angelo Condello was thrown from a pony into a tree and suffered fatal skull and neck injuries. A year later, 40-year-old Luigi Longo died after an earth collapse, while 28-year-old Salvatore Migliorino was killed by falling timber six months later. In April 1929, 70-year-old Henry Glen died in a tunnel collapse about 86 feet below the surface. Then, in June 1930, three men died in what became known as the “Silvan tunnel tragedy”. Walter Crosby, 35, Patrick Walsh, 33, and Frederick Scales, 40, were reported to have been trapped by an “almost impenetrable wall of sod-
Silvan Dam, pictured today. (On file) den clay”. Two others escaped. For Ms Herlihy, the deaths have been overshadowed by the importance of the dam itself. “Without a doubt, you can almost not find any information about these people,” she said. “As far as I know, there’s no memorial to them, and their names aren’t mentioned. You might expect some acknowledgement that we remember them with sadness, but you don’t see that in the records. So, I’m assuming it wasn’t considered important enough.” Historical researchers Karen Leadbeater Phillips and Dr Janice Newton said much remains unknown about the men who came to work on the dam, including what motivated them to migrate. Ms Leadbeater Phillips said the Silvan State School history recorded that many workers found jobs on farms after the dam was completed and later bought land of their own - suggesting that Australia became a land of opportunity for some, although whether they had that motivation before migrating was difficult to establish. For Mt Evelyn, however, their arrival left a
lasting mark. Workers and holidaymakers brought new people into the town, businesses benefited from the influx and the school population grew. Ms Herlihy said their group’s research also records women buying holiday land and becoming involved in local organisations like the CFA, guides, and scouts. She said the legacy of the Silvan Dam “cannot” be separated from the people who built it. “I don’t think I can balance a building with a life because each life has so many people around it, and the influences not just them, but the children and grandchildren,” Ms Herlihy said. “And when they’re told their grandfather died in X and Y, you can’t help. And many boys, I think, suffer if they don’t have a male role model.” According to Melbourne Water, inflows to Melbourne’s storages from July 2024 to June 2025 were 36 per cent below the 30-year average, including the lowest January-to-June inflows on record. Hotter and drier weather also pushed daily household use to 169 litres per person, up from
163 litres the previous year, while almost 38,000 new households joined the city’s water network. Despite the decline, water restrictions are not planned for this summer, with a 50-billion-litre desalinated water order supplementing supplies and slowing the fall in storages. Melbourne’s Annual Water Outlook is prepared jointly by Greater Western Water, Melbourne Water, South East Water and Yarra Valley Water, in partnership with the State Government. Today, Melbourne’s water system is again under pressure. According to Melbourne Water, the western region is facing increased pressure from population growth and dry conditions and Melbournians are being urged to follow Victoria’s permanent water saving rules and reduce household consumption, with a target of no more than 150 litres per person per day. That includes keeping showers to four minutes, turning off the tap while brushing teeth, running full loads in washing machines, choosing drought-tolerant native plants and mulching gardens.
Share knowledge and perspective: Join an advisory committee Yarra Ranges Council is encouraging residents with diverse lived experience to join one of four advisory committees currently seeking members. Expressions of Interest are now open for the council’s Disability Advisory Committee, Health and Wellbeing Advisory Committee, Positive Ageing Advisory Committee and Sustainable Environment Advisory Committee, with places available for between two and four years. Yarra Ranges Deputy Mayor Gareth Ward reinforced the important role its advisory committees play and the value the council places on hearing the perspectives of people with different lived experiences. “Joining an advisory committee gives you the opportunity to provide feedback on a range of Council plans, programs and policies before they’re released to the public. It’s an important and valuable part of our process, and helps to shape the work we do for the community,” Cr Ward said. “We have countless projects that have benefitted from advice from our DAC and other committees, from our drinking fountains through to the road crossings on the Warburton Trail. “For example, we received feedback from a Disability Advisory Committee member that the chicane road barriers on the Warburton Trail were too narrow for someone using a hand-cycle, making it inaccessible for many people with disabilities. As a result, we redesigned every road crossing on the trail to ensure people of all abilities could navigate the entire 40km stretch. 20 MAIL | Tuesday, 6 October, 2026
The Yarra Ranges Disability Advisory Committee. (Supplied) “This is a great, and rare, opportunity to get involved. All you need is time to participate in the meetings, your own unique views, and a willingness to provide us with honest feedback based on your own lived experience.” Applying is easy, and while the council can’t
guarantee a place for every applicant, it’s a great opportunity to flag that you’re interested in getting involved. “There may be a place on another committee that’s also relevant to your situation, and we may also be able to connect you with interesting vol-
unteering opportunities.” Committees meet regularly, for up to two hours. Meeting frequency and lengths vary for each committee and can be found on the Shaping Yarra Ranges page. Expressions of interest close 28 October.
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NEWS
Gaelle is running again By Callum Ludwig The Yarra Valley-raised Gaelle Broad is looking to continue her stint in Victoria’s upper house, representing the Nationals in Northern Victoria. Ms Broad has lived and worked in the region for over 20 years, having grown up on a third-generation farm in the Yarra Valley before raising her own family in Bendigo, with extended family in other parts of the region. Ms Broad said representing the region for the Nationals is something she takes very seriously. “As The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria since 2022, I have had the privilege of meeting people from many communities and discussing the issues that are most important to them,” she said. “It has been an incredible honour to represent the region in the current Victorian Parliament, Northern Victoria is such a special part of the world and has so much to offer, it deserves to be well represented and to be treated fairly by government. “The Nationals have a strong focus on standing up for rural and regional Victorians and they have not wavered from this commitment over many years.” Ms Broad has been involved in a range of community groups, including sporting groups, community radio, church groups and more, and particularly really enjoys supporting local theatre and other groups who are adding to the rich diversity of Northern Victoria’s communities. Ms Broad said the key concerns and issues that she hears about consistently include the cost of living, increasing crime and the terrible state of our roads. “Crime remains at an all-time high in Victoria with a criminal offence occurring every 50 seconds, every day 735 people become victims of crime,” she said.
Gaelle Broad is seeking reelection in Northern Victoria for the Nationals. (Supplied) “Locals are also very concerned about health services, the shortage of housing and access to good education. “These important issues have a direct impact on people’s lives and they must be addressed.”
Prior to entering Parliament, Ms Broad had experience working in government, business, and the media in Northern Victoria. Ms Broad said more broadly, she is very concerned about the gross mismanagement of the
state’s finances and the extraordinary debt that now hangs over Victoria. “Net debt is growing by $1.2 million an hour and is expected to reach a record $199.3 billion by 2029-30, these are extraordinary figures,” she said. “Victoria will spend more this year on interest repayments than on operating Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria and all kindergarten services combined, with more than $1 billion still leftover. “Victoria has the highest taxes and most debt of any state in the nation. I believe that it is important to maintain transparency and accountability in government, and support informed public debate.” Ms Broad encouraged Northern Victoria voters seeking further information to see The Nationals’ Plan for Regional Victoria on their website vic.nationals.org.au/policies/ or visit her website – gaellebroad.com.au/. Ms Broad said she would strongly encourage voters to reach out to find out what the various candidates stand for in the lead-up to the election. “This poll will decide who governs Victoria for the next four years, this is important because it will determine things like how our roads are fixed, how crime is addressed and how our health services are delivered, it will have a direct impact on our cost of living,” she said. “The Nationals in government will have a clear focus on reducing crime, lowering costs and building better roads, at the core of the plan is our Fair Share Guarantee which will lock in at least 25 per cent of all new government infrastructure investment for regional Victoria. “It’s really important that people take an interest in what the candidates stand for and who they are connected with, the future of our state depends on it.”
Tim Barber standing for One Nation in Eildon electorate By Callum Ludwig Tim Barber is the One Nation candidate for the Eildon district. Mr Barber grew up on a farm and has been living around the Mansfield area for 14 years, including sending his kids to Mansfield Primary School and Mansfield Secondary School. Mr Barber said his family is very much ensconced in the area of Mansfield. “I have been active in the community, I’ve been in several plays in Mansfield with the local amateur theatre group or MADS as it’s known as,” he said. “I’ve also been involved in the local radio from time to time. The director of the local radio wants me to do a slot every week for a car show because that’s my field of endeavour. I have a workshop at home and I restore old cars from my own shed for other people. “Also, being an old farmer from out in the bush, I can turn my hand to anything and I quite often make sheds for people or build a swimming pool fence or a mailbox or a gate or two, so I’ve got bits of my work dotted here and there around Mansfield.” Mr Barber officially launched his campaign at the Mansfield Golf Club on Sunday 4 October. Mr Barber said he’s running for parliament because he can’t believe Victoria is in such a parlous state. “We’re all facing a void that if we don’t fill it
with a practical party with practical policies as One Nation has, then we’re just gonna go deeper down the debt track, and we’ve got to pull back on waste,” he said. “Victoria’s in a debt that is almost at a point where we can’t afford to pay the interest on the loan but all the money that we are earning with our hard, calloused hands is being taken from us and tipped into a void that is not helping any of us. “The end result of that is that the state of Victoria’s potholed roads are shaking all our teeth loose and our patience thin.” Other priorities are reducing the cost of living, ‘getting rid of net zero’, fixing roads and keeping Victoria’s land open to bush users. “At the moment, people can’t afford to live, they can’t afford to buy groceries, they can’t afford their fuel and power bills, and it’s just a horrendous situation and it’s laughable that those in opposition have been quiet while all this has happened,” he said. “The potholes are a number one priority to fix, and that’ll make a huge difference in our electorate because it’s actually outright dangerous, it’s almost to the point where people are in mortal danger every time they drive on a road in our electorate. “Certainly as far as where I live in Mansfield, we are very determined to make sure that the state parks remain open for access to all, including fossickers, motorcycle riders, day trippers
Tim Barber is the One Nation candidate for Eildon. (Supplied) and campers.” Across the state, crime is another one of the biggest issues for Mr Barber. Mr Barber said they want to see tougher penalties and bail laws. “It’s disheartening when the police do such hard work in stopping crime… and they’re thwarted by weak bail laws where the offenders are released and then go on to re-offend, sometimes over a hundred times...There is talk of setting up a citizen committee to oversee the judges to make sure that they give the offenders appropriate sentences, not just a slap on the wrist,” he said. “Our successive governments have had a big mandate about violence against women, and we all agree with that, it’s been fantastic, but it’s been undermined by allowing certain immigrants in who don’t believe in the rights of wom-
en and treat them appallingly. “It’s appalling that we haven’t voiced strongly enough that we need to be very careful that we aren’t just letting anybody in who doesn’t fit into the country…I’ve got some terrific friends in Mansfield that have come from all walks of life and from all corners of the world, but we have to be very careful about who we let into the country, and we don’t have a good track record.” Mr Barber has also previously been elected as a councillor for Mount Alexander Shire Council. Mr Barber said he would love to go to the far reaches of the electorate. “If anybody wants to contact me and can organise a few of their friends and family, anywhere in this electorate, I’d be very happy to set up a time to come and say hello,” he said. “Thankfully, One Nation now has a strong voice across Australia, and it’s a voice that resonates with the common people like myself, the average man on the street can understand what One Nation’s talking about because like myself, most of the people who are candidates in this state are ordinary people. “They’re not career politicians, and that’s so important to have people that understand how hard it is to make a dollar and how unimpressed we are when that half of that dollar that we make is squandered on unnecessary bureaucracy.” Mr Barber can be reached at 0429 577 340, eildon@vic.onenation.org.au and on Facebook via ‘Tim Barber for Eildon - One Nation’.
Greg Hansford withdraws from the race By Callum Ludwig One Nation’s Eastern Victoria candidate Greg Hansford has left the running for Victoria’s upper house. The retired school teacher and small business owner from the Latrobe Valley has pulled out of being top of One Nation’s ticket in the region due to a serious health concern. A One Nation spokesperson said it is with great sadness that One Nation Victoria announces the withdrawal of Greg Hansford from the state election contest. “Greg has a serious health matter that requires ongoing treatment,” they said.
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“One Nation’s primary priority is Greg’s health and wellbeing, and we ask that you respect his privacy at this time. “We continue to support Greg and his family in any way we can and are deeply saddened by this news.” Neil Davison is also listed as a One Nation candidate for Eastern Victoria. One Nation did not clarify if he will assume the top spot on their ticket for Eastern Victoria. The One Nation spokesperson said Greg has always fought for Gippsland and the Latrobe Valley, and his work for the betterment of the region is unrivalled. “We have big shoes to fill, and we ask every-
one to remain patient and respectful as we select a candidate for our first position in Eastern Victoria in the Legislative Council,” they said. “As Greg wishes, we remain focused on the election at hand. “For the sake of Greg and his family, we will not be taking any questions on this matter.” In a profile article for the Star Mail in August, Mr Hansford identified supporting local industries in the region, boosting apprenticeship training, restoring police numbers and locations, the state debt and fulfilling promises like an upgrade for the Warragul hospital as key priorities. One Nation has been contacted for a profile article on Mr Davison or whoever assumes the
One Nation’s Greg Hansford has withdrawn from the Eastern Victoria race due to a serious health concern. (File) top seat on the Eastern Victoria once it is announced.
Tuesday, 6 October, 2026 | MAIL 21
OPINION
Real plan for state In just 50 days’ time, Victorians can change the direction of our state and vote for a Fresh Start. Real change needs a plan and a strong team that can deliver. Together with leader Jess Wilson, our Liberal Team has a plan to deliver for Victorians – to reduce crime, lower costs, and deliver a government that works. After 12 years in power, the Andrews-AllanCarroll Labor Government has left Victoria in a worse condition than they found it, and Victorians are paying the price. Crime is at record highs, with a crime committed every 50 seconds. Victoria is the country’s car theft capital with a car stolen or broken into every 43 minutes. Retail crime in the Yarra Ranges increased a staggering 33 per cent. Violent youth criminals exploit Labor’s revolving-door bail system, repeatedly reoffending, terrorising innocent people on the streets and in homes. Our Liberal plan will reduce crime by recruiting 3000 more police, returning PSOs to train stations, re-opening police stations closed by Labor including Mooroolbark Police Station, implementing Break Bail Face Jail with a one-strike rule
Digger review
State of
Affairs Bridget Vallence Evelyn MP
for Bail, and proper Adult Crime Adult Time laws including carjacking and arson, to break the cycle of crime so communities can thrive once again. Victoria’s economy has deteriorated and unemployment is rising; youth unemployment is now 12 per cent. Debt is soaring to $200 billion leaving taxpayers paying $32 million a day in interest. In a cost-of-living crisis, Labor has added 71 new or increased taxes, with Victorians paying the highest taxes in the country. $15 billion lost to corruption and bikie gangs on Labor’s Big Build means less for the essentials. Our Liberal plan will repair Victoria’s bud-
get ensuring a stronger economy that prioritises frontline essential services, drives investment and jobs, and lowers taxes to provide cost-ofliving relief. We’ll scrap the Emergency Services Tax and lower payroll and land tax saving money for hundreds of thousands of Victorians. We’ll help first home buyers by scrapping stamp duty on homes valued up to $1 million. Victoria’s road network is crumbling with the Auditor-General rating nearly half the state’s roads in poor condition. Potholes are costing Victorians thousands with blown tyres and cracked rims, putting safety at risk. Our Liberal plan will fix degraded roads by investing $5 billion to eliminate potholes and reestablish preventative maintenance. Additionally, only our Liberal Team will finally fix the dangerous Maroondah Highway and Killara Road Coldstream intersection making it safer for motorists and pedestrians. Fixing Victoria will not be easy, but our Liberal Team is ready to make the disciplined decisions, restore confidence, and deliver the fresh start Victoria needs. For more visit OurPlan.au.
CARTOON
Digger Starring Tom Cruise, Riz Ahmed and John Goodman MA15+ 3.75/5 Digger, a political dark comedy directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu, is the most frustrating film I’ve seen this year so far, and follows tycoon Digger Rockwell (Tom Cruise) as he faces the cataclysmic consequences of a disaster at his Greenland oil rig. Digger’s hilarious first act had me rapt with its earth-shaking egos and ruthless political spin, as it satirises the chummy but self-serving relationship between government and big business. Cruise is clearly having fun playing a repulsive anti-hero, Riz Ahmed is riveting as a climate scientist who Digger respects for telling the brutal, insulting truth, and John Goodman is a loud, bug-eyed caricature in the best way as President Compson. Digger distinguishes itself with arresting imagery, lavish set design and phenomenal monologues. I love how the washedout colour palette makes Rockwell and his ghoulish entourage look like corpses. Digger’s best scene is a nightmarish circuslike UN hearing full of contorted faces and bellowed recriminations, as a swaggering Rockwell confesses to his company’s crimes but brands his audience hypocrites for preaching progressive action while reluctant to give up their oily comforts. Where Digger nearly lost me is the reveal that Rockwell’s whole story is a play called Fossil Fools, with Cruise playing actor Curtis Markson. You know me – I usually hate when films do this, but I could (mostly) forgive this immersion-shattering reveal on the style and strength of Rockwell’s narrative. Still, these backstage interludes with Markson are uninteresting diversions that hurt the flow and closure of Rockwell’s story and say very little (save for a moving speech from Jesse Plemons about the value of absurd satire), and Digger would be much better if they were removed. Digger is a witty, visually lush oil-black comedy that loses focus and breaks the fourth wall to its near-fatal detriment. - Seth Lukas Hynes
22 MAIL | Tuesday, 6 October, 2026
Frozen a fan favourite Karralyka Theatre You’re My World – The Vilia Black Story Cilla Black was one of the most authentic pop-culture personalities in contemporary history. With eleven top hits throughout the sixties and seventies and several hits on the revision. Shoes, Cilla carved a name for herself as an impressive singer with relatable personality and a wicked sense of humour. And now Cilla Black is back. This hugely successful show is full of the powerhouse vocals and self-deprecatinghumour that made Cillia Black one of the UK’s most beloved stars. Season: Tuesday 13 October at 10.30 am and 1.30pm. The 1812 Theatre Switzerland – A Review A young man travels from New York to Switzerland to try to persuade acclaimed thriller writer Patricia Highsmith to write one final instalment of her Tom Ripley series, with his efforts gradually turning more sinister. The 1812 held the play in The Bakery at 1812 as it is a two-hander. The players were Patricia Highsmith as AudreyMaeve Barker, her agent from America was Edward Ridgway, played by Mark Channing. The set was well done with a two-seater couch and matching chair centre stage, on audience right there was a desk where Patricia did her writing, on the audience’s left there was a bookshelf on which she kept books and souvenirs of guns used in her stories. Centre rear was an opening to a movie of snails, as the writer was a keen viewer of snails; then it changed to a view of the Swiss Alps, but as the show grew darker, the window view grew smaller. Audrey-Maeve Barker gave a good acting performance, but her voice was not clear, and the audience missed some of the fine nuances which
Kemp’s curtain call contributed to the plot. Mark Channing was also a good actor but again was not too clear voice-wise and instead of facing the audience when he spoke, he spoke away from the audience. There was a surprising twist at the end. Overall, not a bad production, but the two actors had quiet voices, which left the audience wondering what was happening. The Round Frozen Produced by Babirra Musical Theatre An extraordinary production from Babirra. The settings were magnificent, the lighting was amazing, the costumes were absolutely wonderful, and the puppetry was excellent. All in all, a show not to be missed. Designed primarily for the younger generation, adults would have trouble enjoying such a production. The production opened with the chorus and then it moved to the young princesses playing together. Elsa, the older of the two was given an amazing performance by Marina Martin, an excellent performance of the young queen who brought winter to everything. On opening night, a young girl played Elsa who did a good performance. The older Anna, Lisa’s sister, was played by Lisa Capon, a remarkable performance, and Lisa was
Inspiring PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN Our readers may member Penguin the Magpie, who became a global social media sensation after her adventures with her human family were shared online. Boasting 176,000 followers on Instagram, Penguin’s story began in 2013, when the abandoned, injured chick was found by the Bloom family. Cameron and Sam and their three young sons nursed her back to health, and she became one of their own. But there’s far more to Penguin’s story than meets the eye. The book Penguin Bloom: The odd little bird who saved a family is more about Sam, a fan of sports and outdoor activities who became paraplegic after a near-fatal injury. Sam’s recovery was long, frustrating and deeply depressing. “Every day presented her with a battle she couldn’t win. No longer able to follow her heart or commit her restless energy to immediate purpose. She sat at the edge of family life, watching, wishing. Sam quietly mourned the loss of her former self; she would cry herself to sleep and cry herself awake,” Cameron writes. “I saw the light in her eyes grow dim. I knew she was withdrawing from the world. That such a fiercely free and passionate spirit could now be anchored beyond our love by pain and a steel chair was too much for us to bear.” Like many other true stories celebrating human strength and resilience, Penguin Bloom is remarkable and inspiring. We cheer for Sam who survived her injuries and went on to become a four-time World Para Surf Champion while advocating for mental health and adapting to change. But the book feels even more heartwarming as it presents a perfect parallel between human and nature, how they bond with and support each other through adversity and pain, until both can triumph over tragedy and trauma. Sam and Penguin show us that, however lost and/or damaged we feel, there will always be compassion, friendship and better days ahead. Particularly worth reading is Sam’s personal message in the book, where she gives “brutally honest” advice to those who have suffered a serious spinal cord injury and been paralysed, and to those whose loved ones have endured a similar fate. To all of us, really, she has this to say: “It’s up to you to choose how you will face the challenges and hard times ahead, and how you will seize the opportunities for creativity, productivity and happiness.” Penguin Bloom has a film adaptation. One of the scriptwriters, Shaun Grant, will discuss writing for TV and film for the “From Page to Screen” panel at the forthcoming 2026 Dandenong Ranges Literary Festival. Fellow panelists include Kelly Lefever and Tadji Ulrich, and a screening of Penguin Bloom is keenly expected. More details: dandyrangeslitfest.net. on stage practically the whole evening. Her younger self on opening night did a terrific performance and did a terrific performance in her role and has a great future on the stage. There was a stag with fully mounted horns and a very good costume. He did a wonderful job of acting in the character. His master gave a great performance and a good acting role added to by a great singing voice. Elise Stevens was the girl’s mother, Queen Uduna, and Jack Lear was the girl’s father, King Agnaar. Both played their roles expertly which added to the high standard of the evening. Olaf the snowman was a puppet about kneehigh and was manipulated by Darcy Harris, a remarkable voice and great manipulation of the puppet. The balance of the cast kept the very high standard set by the main cast and it was an evening to be remembered.
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RURAL LIFESTYLE EQUINE FACILITIES WITH MASSIVE SHEDDING ON 18 ACRES mailcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 6 October, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 23
PROPERTY OF THE WEEK
RURAL LIFESTYLE - EQUINE FACILITIES WITH MASSIVE SHEDDING ON 18 ACRES AS the remote entrance gates open, they reveal a private sweeping driveway leading to a true country style homestead. All crowning the ridge and combines RARE usable acreage with tranquil rural views. Step inside to reveal vaulted timber ceilings, steep gabled roof lines and lots of natural light through cute pyramid windows. Open plan kitchen/dining/family room is the hub of the home overlooking alfresco entertaining area and in ground pool. There are three living rooms for everyone to have their own space to spread out. Four spacious bedrooms, including a huge master bedroom, walk-in robe and a truly stunning ensuite bathroom. Need to work from home? There is even a large study, just for that. Yearround comfort is provided with ducted gas heating, cosy wood fire Coonara heater plus split and evaporative cooling. Stepping outside the land is divided into 7 paddocks, 2 shelters and concrete water troughs. A dressage arena of 60mx20m stables, tack room and wash facilities. A large 4 bay garage/work room is well fitted out and a massive 7 bay work shed for the car enthusiast or contractor plus hard stand parking. Indoor and outdoor spaces combine here for absolute lifestyle pleasure. Offering options for even a few sheep or some cows (or whatever takes your fancy!) This is a rare opportunity to secure a substantial acreage holding in a tightly held location. So, is it now time for your family’s ‘Tree Change?’ ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 25 Chapman Road, SILVAN Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 11 garage Price: $1,950,000 - $2,145,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Grant Skipsey 0418 528 102, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL REAL ESTATE, 9754 6111
24 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 6 October, 2026
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HOME FOCUS
“FERNDALE” WARBURTON RETREAT THIS beautiful home really is the complete package, offering this delightful opportunity as a stunning forever home, luxurious Bed & Breakfast, peaceful weekender or simply your own private Yarra Valley escape. Superbly positioned just outside the Warburton township, with the Yarra River and Warburton Rail Trail right across the road, this is a property where location and lifestyle come together beautifully. Inside, the home offers three generous bedrooms, all with built-in robes and plenty of space to accommodate multiple beds if desired. Whether you’re welcoming family and friends or creating a cosy retreat for guests, there is room to make the home work beautifully for your needs. The spacious open plan living area is made for gathering. The dining room provides a wonderful setting for long lunches, dinner parties or an afternoon of board games after feasting on goodies prepared in the gorgeous kitchen. When the day winds down, settle in beside the stunning bluestone enclosed wood fire, pour yourself a glass of Yarra Valley wine and soak up the warmth and ambience of this very special home. The kitchen blends modern convenience with plenty of charm, featuring a Smeg oven, generous bench space and a neutral, contemporary palette. Stunning timber floorboards and exposed beams add warmth and character, while updated bathroom completes the home’s effortless combination of style and comfort. Every window frames a delightful garden outlook, making it just as enjoyable to sit inside and gaze outside as it is to wander through the established surrounds. The gardens have created a beautiful, low maintenance wonderland, allowing you
to enjoy the serenity without spending every weekend tending to it. The rear fern garden a completely different, wonderfully tranquil part of the property and the ideal spot to sit, reflect or meditate. In these surrounds, even the least
experienced gardener might start feeling like a bit of a green thumb. Set on just over half an acre, the property also offers a lock-up garage, woodshed, 8.7kW solar system and excellent fencing throughout.
A truly special property in an enviable location, where the garden, the home and the surrounding Yarra Valley lifestyle come together to create something very hard to leave. This is one you won’t want to miss. ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 187 Woods Point Road, EAST WARBURTON Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 garage Price: $840,000 - $890,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Rebecca Doolan 0401 832 068, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION, 5967 1277 mailcommunity.com.au Tuesday, 6 October, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 25
HOME FOCUS
SPACIOUS RANCH-STYLE LIVING WITH SUSTAINABLE CREDENTIALS, MINUTES TO TOWN THIS appealing ranch-style four-bedroom home offers generous space, excellent indooroutdoor living and a strong focus on comfort and sustainable living. The private main suite provides a peaceful retreat, complete with walk-in robe and full ensuite, while the remaining bedrooms are serviced by a spacious family bathroom. Multiple large living areas provide plenty of room for the whole family, with one featuring a cosy wood fire for relaxed evenings. At the heart of the home, the wellappointed central kitchen offers abundant cupboard and bench space, making everyday living and entertaining a breeze. A separate laundry adds further practicality. Full-length verandahs wrap around the home, creating an effortless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The covered pergola provides the perfect setting for year-round outdoor entertaining, overlooking the established gardens and productive vegetable beds. Designed with sustainable living in mind, the property features several vegetable gardens, water tanks, 12kW solar panels and a 13.5kW Tesla Powerwall battery. Double glazing with Magnetite, split systems x 4, further contribute to year-round comfort and energy efficiency. Outside, the fully fenced 2828 m2 allotment provides a secure environment for the family, while dual access, ample parking, a double garage and carport provide plenty of space for vehicles, trailers and guests. Offering generous accommodation, wonderful outdoor spaces and an impressive range of energy-efficient features, this is a home designed for comfortable family living with room to enjoy the lifestyle. You are minutes to Cockatoo Township, walks through Wright Forest, 15 mins to rail connections in Pakenham, bus nearby and a wonderful community to be part of. Offers Closing Tuesday October 13 at 4pm, unless sold prior. ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 31 Bailey Road, COCKATOO Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 6 garage Price: $975,000 - $1,072,500. Offers Closing Tuesday October 13 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 mailcommunity.com.au 26 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 6 October, 2026
Ranges CONVENIENT & PRIVATE LOCATION
SUSTAINABLE CREDENTIALS
SELbY 5 JOHNS ROAD
$745,000 - $815,000
HOME SWEET HOME
3A 2B C
‘Mirra Brae’- Discover a unique earthy home with a warm ambience and a relaxed Hills lifestyle in this convenient and private location only moments from all desirable amenities. you’ll find a multi-level design featuring treed views, unique kitchen with a butler’s pantry, dining area with a cosy wood heater, deluxe ensuite to the master, timber features, massive picture windows, multi point central split system heating, a spacious undercover decking, 1/4 acre with dual street access with ample off-street parking.
Grant Skipsey 0418 528 102
SET IN A QUIET COMMUNITY
9754 6111
rangesfn.com.au mailcommunity.com.au
$975,000 - $1,072,500
SPACIOUS RANCH-STYLE LIVING
4A 2B 6C
****Offers Closing Tuesday October 13th at 4pm, unless sold prior**** This appealing home offers generous space, excellent indoor-outdoor living & a strong focus on sustainable living. Features a private master retreat, multiple large living, wood fire, full-length wrap around verandahs, covered pergola, established gardens, vegetable beds, water tanks, 12kW solar panels & a 13.5kW Tesla Powerwall battery, double glazing, S/Systems x 4, dual access and ample parking on a fully fenced 2828 m2 allotment.
Caiti Ellis 0493 136 937
PERFECT FIRST HOME
$495,000 - $530,000 2A 1B 1C
This over-55s unit sits on a manageable 179m² allotment and delivers an easy, lowmaintenance lifestyle in a quiet setting. The layout has been designed with practicality in mind, offering a centrally positioned bathroom with ensuite effect to master bedroom, open plan living, kitchen with plenty of storage, second toilet and separate laundry. The courtyard provides a private spot to enjoy some fresh air, a single garage with remote access and direct entry into the home adds convenience. Includes visitor parking.
Erin Davies 0494 175 410
COCkATOO 31 BAILEy ROAD
Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522
SHORT WALK INTO TOWN
GEMbROOk 6/13 VISTA COURT
We put you first
Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522
AVONSLEIGH 475 BELgRAVE-gEMBROOK RD CHARMING COTTAGE LIVING
$650,000 - $715,000 2A 1B 1C
Full of character and warmth, this charming cottage is the perfect place to begin your homeownership journey. Set on a generous 791sqm (approx.) block, it offers a relaxed, easy lifestyle with just the right mix of original charm and thoughtful updates. Featuring warm timber floorboards throughout, renovated bathroom with double vanities, cosy light-filled living space and bedrooms. All of this in a convenient location, just a short drive to both Emerald and Cockatoo shops, cafés, and local amenities.
Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522
‘We Put You First’
Caiti Ellis 0493 136 937
1660 Burwood Highway, Belgrave Shop 2/24 McBride St, Cockatoo Tuesday, 6 October, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 27
HOME FOCUS
FAMILY COMFORT AND STYLE CLOSE TO TOWN 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 and conveniently located just a short stroll to local schools, transport and Seville’s busy shopping hub and with the walking trail just down the road - it’s a great place to call home.
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 45 English Street, SEVILLE Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,250,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: David Carroll 0419 539 320, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION, 5967 1277
28 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 6 October, 2026
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P 5966 2530
3407 Warburton Highway, Warburton
3372 Warburton Highway, Warburton
$750,000-$795,000
55 Surrey Road, Warburton
P 5967 1277
2457 Warburton Highway, Yarra Junction
$550,000-$600,000
Woongarra - A Beautiful Warburton Property
A Magnificent Block backing onto the golf course with Mountain Views
Woongarra, a classic and unique Warburton residence prominently positioned and proudly overlooking Warburton’s main street and enjoying glorious mountain views. Ideally positioned opposite the Yarra River, swing bridge and just metres from the Warburton Trail and mountain bike tracks you couldn’t find a more handy location! Charming in all areas and offering 3 large bedrooms and reflecting all the warmth and ambience of the decades gone by. Sit back, relax and admire the ever changing outlook from the family size lounge and living areas with colourful established gardens, fruit trees and great size front and rear yards. Exceptionally well maintained in all areas, this property is the ideal family home or weekender and with an extremely rare commercial zoning and main street location - the potential is endless.
Set in the exclusive Surrey Road precinct, this magnificent property offers a combination of spectacular mountain views, established gardens and an exceptional location. Inside, the home is original yet neat providing an opportunity for its next owners to bring their vision to life. Spacious open-plan lounge and dining area is filled with natural light, while large windows frame the stunning mountain outlook. Outside, there is plenty to enjoy, including a generous deck ideal for entertaining, a garden shed and carport, all surrounded by the established gardens and peaceful natural setting. An absolute treasure in one of Warburton’s most sought after locations come and explore the possibilities.
David Carroll M 0419 539 320 Inspection: By Appointment
187 Woods Point Road, East Warburton
3
A
1
B 1 C
$840,000 - $890,000
Rebecca Doolan M 0401 832 068 Inspection: By Appointment
3
38 Wellington Road, Warburton
A
1
B 1 C
$700,000 - $770,000
“Ferndale” Warburton Retreat
‘White Rabbit Cottage’ - A private garden sanctuary with timeless charm
Superbly positioned just outside the Warburton township, this is a property where location and lifestyle come together beautifully. Inside, the home offers three generous bedrooms, all with built-in robes and plenty of space to accommodate multiple beds if desired. The spacious open plan living area is made for gathering. The kitchen blends modern convenience with plenty of charm, featuring a Smeg oven, generous bench space and a neutral, contemporary palette. Stunning timber floorboards and exposed beams add warmth and character, while updated bathroom completes the home’s effortless combination of style and comfort. The rear fern garden is a wonderfully tranquil part of the property and the ideal spot to sit, reflect or meditate. Set on just over half an acre, the property also offers a lock-up garage, woodshed, 8.7kW solar system and excellent fencing.
Tucked away and set amongst lush, established gardens, this charming home feels like a world of its own. Inside, soaring ceilings create an incredible sense of space, while timber features flowing throughout the home add warmth and timeless appeal. The inviting lounge provides a cosy place to unwind, while the stunning separate dining room is bathed in natural sunlight and enjoys picturesque garden views. The lower level offers two generous bedrooms, both with built-in robes, complemented by excellent storage throughout the home. The original kitchen and bathroom have been lovingly maintained, with the bathroom featuring a separate bath for a touch of old-world charm. Beyond this, the spacious master bedroom is a peaceful retreat, with picture-perfect windows drawing in beautiful natural light throughout the day. Come and discover the magic for yourself.
Rebecca Doolan M 0401 832 068 Inspection: By Appointment
3
A
1
B 2 C
Rebecca Doolan M 0401 832 068 Inspection: By Appointment
3
A
1
B 1 C
bellrealestate.com.au mailcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 6 October, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 29
HOME FOCUS
LARGE FAMILY HOME IN JUST THE RIGHT LOCATION SIMPLY stunning from start to finish, this meticulously cared for family home offers extensive living options, a versatile floorplan and a wonderfully convenient position within a welcoming community. Situated on a no-through road and only 450 metres (approx.) from Belgrave South Primary School, local shops and public transport, the home is perfectly placed for everyday convenience and easy family life. Built in 2004 and spanning over two levels, the home offers five generous bedrooms along with flexible living options ideal for growing families, older children, guests or those needing a dedicated work-from-home space. The main level features a sun filled, spacious open-plan living zone with soaring cathedral ceilings over 16ft high, four well sized bedrooms, kitchen and dining area while downstairs an oversized rumpus room, fifth bedroom / home office and bathroom provides the perfect second living area or extended accommodation option. At the heart of the home, the impressive kitchen combines style and practicality with a large island bench, breakfast bar, stone benchtops, walk-in pantry, stainless steel Fisher & Paykel cooktop and oven, plus an LG dishwasher. Thoughtful finishes throughout include striking hardwood timber floors and highlight clerestory windows, adding touches of character and practicality. Ducted heating and split system heating/cooling provide yearround comfort. Outside, the large rear decking offers a beautiful place to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner while taking in the colourful, tiered gardens and surrounding treetops. A sealed driveway leads to a double carport, with additional space available for trailers or extra vehicles and there is excellent workshop space and storage under the house with internal access. A true testament to quality and craftsmanship, 11 Lyndall Road won't be beaten on design or desire. ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 11 Lyndall Road, BELGRAVE SOUTH Description: 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,300,000 - $1,395,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442 and Jonathan Arad 0490 393 328, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE, 9754 6888
30 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 6 October, 2026
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Real Estate you can trust! We’re here to help.
62oldWarburtonroad,Sevilleeast
128Belgrave-Gembrookrd,Selby
1GlenHarrowHeightsrd,Belgrave
2 Bed | 1 Bath | 2 Car | 1126m2
2 Bed | 1 Bath | 2 Car | 1449m2
5 Bed | 2 Bath | 2096m2
For Sale $650,000 - $710,000
For Sale $690,000 - $745,000
For Sale $780,000 - $830,000
Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442
Jonathan Arad 0490 393 328
290Glenfernroad,Upwey
Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442
Jonathan Arad 0490 393 328
131MtMortonrd,BelgraveHeights
Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442
Jonathan Arad 0490 393 328
11lyndallroad,BelgraveSouth
4 Bed | 2 Bath | 2 Car | 981m2
4 Bed | 2 Bath | 3 Car | 7.6 Acres
5 Bed | 3 Bath | 2 Car | 1003m2
For Sale $940,000 - $1,030,000
For Sale $1,250,000 - $1,375,000
For Sale $1,300,000 - $1,395,000
Daniel Steen 0434 979 142
Brad Conder 0422 639 115
Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554
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, 6 October, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 31
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.
QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS
easy
6 2 5 7 1 4 1 5 5 8 1 2 6 5 4 1 7 6 4 9 1 9 3 2 5 6 4 7 6 3 9 1 medium
4 5 9 3
2
5 1 2 3 1 2
6 7
5
1 4
7 2
13 14 15 18 20 21 23 26 27 28 29
6 6 4 7 3 2 6
15
25
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10
2
9
1 5 4 5 7
9 3 3
2
9
Pontiff (4) Disputed Spanish region (9) Ancient Roman aristocrat (9) Bygone (5) Feudal Japanese warrior (7) Boredom (5) Preceding day (9) Individual from Belgrade, say (4) Written declaration under oath (9) Father, as head of family (9) Travelling (2,7) Latter part of the day (7) Rundown (5) Musical drama (5) Data (coll) (4) Shortened form of boulevard (4)
1 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 14 16 17 19 22 23 24 25
12
7 3
21
12
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24
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13
12
19
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26
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12 16
12
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10
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25
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12
18
22 2
26
N
25
R
15
4 23
22
1
R
2 4
22
25
26
2
R
26 15
8
N
12
N
17
4
21
22
6
6
22
24
4
25
4
1
1
9
18
6
22
15
4
13
5
20
25
22
11
4
12
3
5
24
25
18
26
9
N
4
N
3
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4
16
4 24
No. 342
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4
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W S K Q U B J F A O Y R N 15
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D G C E M L Z V X T P I H 9
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9-LETTER WORD Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in 's'.
R
Today’s Aim: 14 words: Good 21 words: Very good 28 words: Excellent
G
I
P
E
N L
I
F
elfin, feign, fern, filing, fine, finer, finger, firing, fling, fringe, genii, glen, grin, infer, lien, line, liner, linger, PILFERING, piling, pine, ping, reign, rein, rifling, riling, ring, ripen
3 6 2 5 7 1 8 4 9 9 7 1 8 2 4 3 5 6 5 8 4 3 9 6 1 2 7 1 2 7 6 5 8 4 9 3 4 9 5 1 3 7 2 6 8 8 3 6 2 4 9 5 7 1 6 1 9 4 8 5 7 3 2 7 5 3 9 1 2 6 8 4 2 4 8 7 6 3 9 1 5
8 7 2 3 4 9 5 1 6 1 5 9 8 6 2 3 4 7 3 4 6 5 7 1 9 8 2 4 6 1 2 5 3 7 9 8 9 8 3 7 1 4 6 2 5 5 2 7 9 8 6 4 3 1 6 9 8 4 2 7 1 5 3 7 3 5 1 9 8 2 6 4 2 1 4 6 3 5 8 7 9
2 7 5 9 4 8 3 1 6 3 6 9 2 7 1 5 4 8 8 1 4 3 6 5 2 7 9 5 9 7 4 1 3 6 8 2 4 8 3 6 2 7 9 5 1 6 2 1 5 8 9 4 3 7 7 4 2 1 3 6 8 9 5 9 3 8 7 5 2 1 6 4 1 5 6 8 9 4 7 2 3 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com
8
hard
7
medium
6
easy
5
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4
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WORDFIT 3 LETTERS ACT AGE AIL ALL ASK ASS EAR EAT EBB EEL FLU IFS INS ION KEG LAD LEE LET NEE OHS ONE PEA TAG TEE
1
4 1 3 8 5
14
4 6
13
26
25
2 1
22
12
10
hard
15
5
4
15
3
22
12 10
9
6
2 9
DECODER 15
1
DOWN
Strike with the beak (4) Furniture covering (10) Long-suffering (7) Requirements (7) Ancient Roman lower classman (8) Elevate (5) Adolescent skin problem (4) Made easy (10) Brotherhood (10) Abide (4) Mournful song (5) Fresh (8) Inocculation (7) Turndown (7) Study of surface features (10) Ladies’ man (4)
1 3 10 11 12
No. 310
4 LETTERS ADDS ARMS ASKS FLUX GENE GIGS MASS NOTE ODDS SCAB SETS SIPS SKIS THEE 5 LETTERS ABLER AIRED AMBER AMUSE
No. 310
T H E E
ANNEX ARENA CAROL CHIPS EDGES ELDER ELUDE ERASE FIRST GLEAM HARSH HERDS IDLER IMAGE INLET LOATH MATTE NEEDS NESTS NOISE PALED PAPAS PEACE
PIANO RAILS RATIO REIGN RENEW ROMPS SAUNA SECTS SHIES SLANT SLEWS SLING SOARS STAMP STARS STATE STEAK STEMS STINT TENET THESE TRITE UNTIE
6 LETTERS HIKERS MISSES ORDEAL SERIAL
8 LETTERS ESTIMATE RECOURSE STRADDLE TONNAGES
7 LETTERS ALARMED BLUNDER CREATES HAPPIER HASSLES RANSOMS
P A P A S S O A R S M A T T E I N L E T A I R E D I M A G E A B L E R P E A C E S L I N G N E E I F S R O M P S T E E O R D E A L A M U S E S E T S B L U N D E R A C T S C A B O D D S H A R S H S K I S E S T I M A T E E A R C R E A T E S H A P P I E R T O N N A G E S G I G S L A D T H E E A S K S S L A N T E E L R A N S O M S F L U X E R A S E H I K E R S I O N N E E D S A S S L E T I D L E R S A U N A R A T I O S T I N T G L E A M E L D E R N E S T S S L E W S T H E S E
No. 310
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Marathon event right here By Oliver Winn The Warburton Bike Park will host a national mountain bike marathon next December, cementing Warburton’s status as a cornerstone mountain biking destination. It came after AusCycling chose the park for its Mountain Bike Marathon National Championships which is set to take place from Friday 3 to Sunday 5 December 2027. More than 600 riders plus support crews are expected to stay over the weekend and buy from local businesses, delivering a strong economic boost for the area. Yarra Ranges Council mayor, councillor Richard Higgins said that the championships are exactly the kind of outcome Warburton Bike Park was built to deliver. “Those multi-night stays mean full accommodation, busy cafes, restaurants and pubs, and extra trade for bike shops, retailers and service providers across Warburton and the Upper Yarra,” Cr Higgins said. Big Hill Events will host the championship event and its director Rohin Adams said the Warburton Bike Park was chosen for several reasons. “Its close proximity to one of Australia’s capital cities makes it an attractive and accessible destination for interstate travellers, with relatively straightforward logistics for getting to the event. “The town also offers a good range of accommodation, food options and shops, providing everything visitors need during their stay,” Mr Adams said. The company prides itself on giving back to the local communities it works in and has a strong history of organising events in Warburton. Cr Higgins said the announcement was a proud moment for the Yarra Ranges. “When we set out to build Warburton Bike Park, we said it would bring visitors to town, support our local businesses and create a lasting economic boost for the Upper Yarra. Riders and their families staying three or four nights, eating
The Warburton Bike Park will attract over 600 riders for the event. (Supplied) 70-kilometre network of diverse trails available at the Warburton Bike Park. The combination of flowing trails, challenging climbs and technical features will provide a true test of riders’ skill, technical mastery and endurance over the marathon distance. World Trails are expected to complete the full
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GLASS TOP DINNG TABLE and 6 chairs, Healesville $400.00. Contact Robert: 0404 994 336. YAMAHA GENERATOR EF2200iS 2.2kva Inverter, brand new. Price: $2,000 Ph. 0439 627 360.
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125km Southern Network, expanding the range of trails available. The championships will be held as part of the ‘Warby 100: MTB Marathon’ event. Elite riders will chase national titles over the full 100km, while shorter 80km, 50km and 30km races will also be featured as part of the day.
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in our cafes and exploring the Valley, is exactly what that looks like. “This is one of many events we expect to welcome to Warburton in the years ahead, and it shows the region is ready to host riders from right across the country.” Leading trail builder World Trails built the
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L-R: Evie, Teah, Mia, Will, Augie, Louie and Bodie all competing for Victoria at the Nationals. (Supplied)
Sanders navigating the deep sand dunes of Morocco. (Kin Marcin/Red Bull Content Pool)
Sanders claims second By Oliver Winn Rally raid racer Daniel “Chucky” Sanders won second place in the 2026 Rallye du Maroc at Morocco, losing to Edgar Canet in an “unfortunate end” to the rally. Results were up and down for the Yarra Ranges-based rider. Stage One saw him kick off with a solid second position finish that he increased to first place in Stage Two. But Stage Three proved difficult and navigational errors caused him to drop back to ninth place. Despite two “pretty big” crashes in Stage Four, he managed to snag the win and the overall lead with it. The final and fifth stage was Sanders’ downfall. He expressed frustration on a Facebook post
Daniel Sanders is seen at the second stage of the Rallye du Maroc in Zaghura, Morocco. (Kin Marcin/Red Bull Content Pool) around the “standard of professionalism specifically relating to the making of the roadbooks”. Roadbooks are like a series of instructions provided to competitors to guide them through
Bargar blows away the competition with Wednesday win By Ron Hottes Last Monday, the start of a very wet week, we had a reasonably small ladies’ field, with Trish Eldridge winning the day with 17 Stableford points. Trish has been very consistent lately. Vicki Hottes was runner-up with 16 points, which was pleasing for me, as otherwise I would have had to praise her two weeks in a row! Of course, there were no nearest the pins. By Wednesday, we were certainly talking wet weather! That very popular club secretary, Kevin Bargar, put on a great performance, scoring 41 points and blowing away the rest of the field. Well done, Kevin, a terrific effort! Jaiden Lever had 39 points to grab the runner-up prize. The nearest the pins on Wednesday went to Ian Cranston on the third, Angus Hall on the fifth, Manny Humphris on the ninth, and Jaiden Lever on the 12th. So, a good week for Jaiden, with a runner-up prize and a nearest the pin. On the 15th, Pennant Masters captain Noel Cross grabbed the nearest the pin on this very challenging hole, with a shot finishing just 163 centimetres from the pin. Good shooting, Noel, very good shooting! Saturday saw the monthly medal played after a very wet week. The weather had improved, although the course was still pretty damp and conditions weren’t brilliant. Unfortunately, the field was still small, with fewer than 30 players competing
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for the Warburton monthly medal. Sam Hyndman is a very capable, talented and consistent young man who loves his golf, and that showed in his net 65, which comfortably won the monthly medal for Saturday 3 October. Sam’s score was even more impressive given the damp course conditions. Hamish Gemmill had the next best score with a 69, taking the runner-up prize. The nearest the pins on Saturday went to Sam Hyndman, capping off a great day with both the medal win and a nearest the pin. Dale Sund took the prize on the fifth, finishing just 50 centimetres from the pin on this long, tricky and difficult par three. On the ninth, Jack Wyatt grabbed a nearest the pin, Trevor Porter took the honours on the 12th, and Troy Murphy claimed one on the 15th, finishing just 134 centimetres from the pin. Another great shot on that very challenging hole! To finish off, just two quick reminders. Firstly, Twilight golf starts this week! The Thursday Twilight competition is always very popular at Warburton, so why not come along and enjoy the first twilight night? You might even like to stay for a meal afterwards. The meals are great, thanks to Skye and her crew! Secondly, we’re not far away from the Club Championships, which begin in late October and continue into November. Keep an eye on the Captain’s newsletter for all the details if you’re keen to be involved. That’s all for this week, folks. Happy golfing, and we’ll see you on the course.
hundred of kilometres of unmarked tracks, pointing out turns, dangers and a whole variety of information. Sanders attributed his time lost to “roadbook inaccuracies” and said there was “no accountability” held for the people who made the roadbooks. “Competing at a World Class level we expect roadbooks to be accurate and safe. I really do hope that the new promoters of the Moroccan Rally take on feedback from all the competitors and implement it next year,” Sanders said. He took time to congratulate Edgar Canet on his first victory. Despite not winning the 2026 Rallye du Maroc, Sanders still increased his overall championship lead to 87 points, 13 ahead of runner-up Luciano Benavides.
Unpleasant weather made for tricky riding conditions on Saturday. (Supplied)
Horse talk By Anita Prowse It was less than pleasant weather on Saturday for Seville PC Combined Training Day, but there were plenty still out at Gladysdale, braving the cold and rain for a great day of competition. The winners in the combined training sections were: Grade 3 PC CT: ■ Georgia McKinnon on Thorwood Black Pepper from Yarra Glen and Dist PC. Grade 4 PC CT: ■ Alana Sigismundi on Flying Jukebox from Cockatoo and Dist PC. Grade 5 PC CT: ■ Lucy Foden on Southern Blast from Seville PC. Grade 6 PC CT: ■ Makenzie Lister on Oriana Puzzle from Seville PC. Open 2 CT: ■ Mikayla Dickinson on Tulara Royal Dakar. Open 3 CT: ■ Sarah Laukart on HSV Censation. Open 4 CT: ■ Lynette Fulton on Mingara Lovebug. Open 5 CT: ■ Lydia Wooden on Kepi. Open 6 CT: ■ Sophie Davis on Weerong Acres Miss. Congratulations to all of those involved and happy riding in some hopefully better coming days.
Healesville Stars claim triple gold at CCFA Nationals By Sally Cunningham Healesville’s football community has plenty to celebrate this week after a stellar showing at the VCFA Nationals, held at Casey Fields — the home of Melbourne City FC — from Monday 28 to Wednesday 30 September. Seven talented young players from Healesville were selected to represent Victoria across three age groups, with an eighth local player also linking up with the New Zealand girls U17 squad for the tournament. It capped off a huge season of junior soccer for all involved. After three rounds of fixtures on Monday and Tuesday, all three Victorian teams carrying Healesville representatives progressed through to Wednesday’s finals, each facing off against Queensland in what turned into a nail-biting day of football. The Vic U15 Boys, featuring Healesville’s Louie and Bodie, set the tone with a commanding 3–1 win over Queensland to take out the first gold medal of the day. The drama ramped up in the Vic U17 Girls final, with Healesville trio Teah, Mia and Evie all playing their part in a thrilling contest that finished 1–1 after full time, forcing a penalty shootout. Healesville’s own Teah produced a standout performance between the posts, saving two penalties to help seal a 4–3 shootout win and the gold medal. Not to be outdone, the Vic U17 Boys — capping off a perfect, undefeated tournament — also found themselves locked at 1–1 with Queensland in the final. Healesville’s Will stepped up to confidently slot home the first penalty of the shootout, settling the nerves as Victoria went on to win 5–3 on penalties, with teammate Augie also part of the victorious squad. Three finals, three Victorian teams, three gold medals — a remarkable result for the state, and a proud moment for Healesville with representatives in every winning side. The finals were live-streamed, allowing friends and family from near and far to cheer on the local heroes in real time. It’s a fantastic achievement for all the players involved and a testament to the strength of junior football coming out of Healesville. Congratulations to Teah, Mia, Evie, Louie, Bodie, Augie and Will, as well as Evelyn who represented New Zealand at the tournament. Full credit also goes to the VCFA for delivering a tournament of such a high standard, held at the world-class Casey Fields facility. Next year the Nationals move to the Gold Coast, and locally there’s hope that even more Healesville juniors will get the chance to experience this high-level, highly competitive tournament.
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