Tuesday, 20 October, 2026
Alpine Hotel named pub of the year
Mac Forbes goes into administration
Open Garden a story of recovery
See Real Estate liftout inside
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Ag on show By Claudia Mathers Farmers, families and friends celebrated Yarra Valley agriculture at the 2026 Wandin Silvan Field Days on 16 and 17 October in Wandin East. The sun’s warm glow welcomed crowds as they milled about from stall to stall, checking out what the local community exhibitors had to show for this year’s event. Wandin Silvan Field Days president Brad Finger said it was “probably the best weather” he’s had in his five years as president. Casey MP Aaron Violi, who was also set up on site, acknowledged that the Wandin Silvan Field Days have been an institution in the community for decades. “Before politics, my family was in farming, so I spent a lot of time here, and I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact that the field days have,” he said. CFA brigades educated locals on the upcoming fire season while petting zoos kept the kids entertained. Check out the top pictures from the day on page 9
James Butcher, Yarra Valley Machinery Preservation Society club president. (Claudia Mather)
Fruit fly detected very high,” she said. “The population curve just goes up exponentially with the temperature.” Agribusiness Yarra Valley is urging residents and commercial growers to step up surveillance and preventative measures while numbers remain low. The organisation currently monitors a reduced network of about 75 traps supported by temporary funding from Agriculture Victoria. Residents are being encouraged to increase surveillance, clean up fallen fruit, prepare netting, check traps, and remove weeds that host the pest, including blackberries and wild tobacco. Ms Koll
urged protection for all produce, including tomatoes and capsicums, noting stone fruit is particularly attractive. Unwanted fruit should be destroyed before disposal by freezing, boiling, mulching, or bagging. Ms Koll expressed confidence in Coldstream land managers, but highlighted greater concern for Lilydale due to unmanaged blackberries and neglected fruit trees. “My main message is that we’ve got to work together on this,” she said. Turn to page 3 to read more
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An early detection of Queensland fruit fly in Coldstream has prompted urgent calls for residents and growers to act now, amid concerns warmer conditions could allow populations to build before the peak fruit season. The pest was detected in Coldstream on 11 October, marking the earliest recording in the Yarra Valley, according to Agribusiness Yarra Valley project manager Bronwyn Koll. The detection follows recent warm and humid weather and has raised concerns for the region’s
fruit-growing industry as crops head towards warmer months. Ms Koll said the early sighting could be attributed to a warmer winter disrupting the fly’s natural seasonal repressant, or transport into the district via commercial, residential, or retail environments. Not enough resources are available to pinpoint the origin or determine if the pest survived winter locally. “Because we’re seeing fruit flies in October, my concern is that by Christmas time, the population will be low or medium, and then by March, it’ll be
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By Gabriella Vukman
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Planning reforms concern By Callum Ludwig Planning and development were a key focus of the Yarra Ranges Council meeting on 13 October, as councillors discussed both the Planning Scheme Review Report and ministerial planning reforms. The two matters were largely related, with the review largely shaped by the need for alignment with the state government on planning goals, including the state-set housing targets. Streeton Ward councillor Jeff Marriott said the review serves as a health check of the planning scheme, evaluating its performance in delivering Victoria’s planning objectives and identifying opportunities for continuous improvement. “Overall, the review finds that the planning scheme is generally functioning effectively and provides a sound basis for managing land use and development across a large, diverse, and highly environmentally and hazarded constrained municipality,” she said. “However, the scheme requires targeted updates to remain current, improve clarity and respond to significant changes. “People often say with council, it’s all about rates, potholes and rubbish… I would actually counteract that and say it’s all about planning, planning, planning.” The latest review outlines key priorities as updating the Municipal Planning Strategy, undertaking further housing and residential zone work to respond to the state housing targets, review the council’s activity centre hierarchy, the Upper Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges Regional Strategy Plan, and the activity centre framework and progressing the Green Wedge Management Plan review alongside the ongoing need to review, update, implement and monitor the scheme through its four-year cycle. While the planning review was welcomed, the pressure of the state government’s reforms drew the ire of councillors. O’Shannassy Ward councillor Jim Child said the biggest cost to him of the ministerial reforms is the communication piece with the community. “We lose that right but not only that, if you look at the report and see the significant amount of work that’s going to be before our planning officers, whether we can actually do that work appropriately,” he said. “You look at the number of planning scheme amendments that have been landed on us all in, to me, in a very untimely space and I hate to say this, but what’s going to happen at the end of next month, we’ve been landed with all this prior to a state election. “It’s on us to write to the minister, why wasn’t local government more engaged with this process but more importantly, why isn’t our community and I’m not going to continue tonight and trying to unpack all this, you’re well aware of what’s before us and what’s before our planning officers, and what’s not before us as a council and also our community.” There have been 83 state government planning scheme amendments since 1 October 2022
Yarra Ranges Council reviewed its planning scheme and the series of reforms implemented by the state government at the Tuesday 13 October meeting. (File) (including administrative amendments). Yarra Ranges Council mayor and Chirnside Ward councillor Richard Higgins said he wanted to echo the thoughts of Cr Child. We’ve listened to two items just before this about the planning scheme, and every councilor said that there were faults in the current planning scheme, do you know why, we weren’t consulted,” he said. “There was changes put to us and they made it so that we had no feedback to the government when they put them all in place…it’s made it very difficult for us to actually help our communities get what they think is right in the area. “Mooroolbark, Chirnside Park is not Hawthorn, it’s not Carlton, one size doesn’t fit all…this is going across our ERG (Eastern Region Group of Councils) counterparts at Whitehorse, Manningham, Knox, Maroondah, they’re facing similar problems.” Of the 83 amendments, Yarra Ranges Council has identified 12 as having a significant impact of the region, nine as having a moderate impact, one as low/moderate impact, one as limited/ moderate impact and the remaining 60 as having little, low, limited or no impact. Billanook Ward councillor Tim Heenan said we are losing a lot of neighbourhood character because of the pressures by the state government
for us to change all the thinking on planning. “Councillors that have been and gone and been elected based on platforms of understanding their communities and that, and all the work that many, many people who have come and gone in the planning department and in Yarra Ranges itself have put together what we believe is right for Yarra Ranges,” he said. “But then these planning reforms that have come out, and they’ve completely turned a lot of things upside down, and they’ll continue to do that and we’re the ones that have gotta try and get that message out to the community, and it’s not savoury. “Definitely tonight, we’ve seen excerpts of that not sitting well with the community, and that will continue to happen and it seems as if we’re the whipping boy that has gotta take the brunt of all these decisions.” The 12 significant impacts pertained to clauses which affect residential developments, introducing, updating and expanding access to the VicSmart pathway (requirement for Councils to assess ‘straightforward’ developments within 10 days), strengthening of Green Wedge Zone and agricultural land protections, new minimum standards for open space, a new flooding framework, reduction of car parking requirements, introducing the state’s Plan for Victoria into council
frameworks and increased responsibility on the council to protect the Birrarung/Yarra River. Lyster Ward councillor Peter McIlwain said from the state government’s point of view, addressing the housing shortfall is a massive crisis and a massive problem. “I think if we just just have an antagonistic view between us versus them, we’re not gonna be able to proactively address the reality of the situation which is that change is coming, or change has come, and it’s not comfortable, it’s not easy, it’s messy,” he said. “We’re gonna have a whole generation of people that can’t have a house, can’t have a family, that’s what we’re looking at… I also would like to point out that one of the things that has, council has been able to achieve, and I congratulate our officers in this, is that there has been cooperative gains made, particularly with respect to the affordable housing issue that we’ve been given powers to raise funding through development. “If we do write to the minister, what we need to be focused on is how do we achieve cooperation with the state government, that’s the key point, protest isn’t gonna win, it won’t get us anywhere.” Ryrie Ward Councillor Fiona McAllister, Melba Ward councillor Mitch Mazzarella and Chandler Ward councillor Gareth Ward also spoke to the motion before it was passed unanimously.
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Framework. The community members took part in a series of Community Placemaking Workshops held in July and August, working alongside Council staff to explore opportunities and challenges in the township. Ryrie Ward Councillor Fiona McAllister said the workshops had been highly collaborative and provided valuable local insights. “We invited community members to register their interest in June and were pleased to see a strong response from a diverse group of residents from the community,” Cr McAllister said. “Across the three workshops, participants shared their thoughts on what makes Healesville special and how we can protect and enhance its unique character into the future.” “We discussed a broad range of topics, from building design and parking to how people move through the town centre and experience public spaces.” Ms McAllister said the council also explored ways to address existing challenges, including difficult pedestrian connections and underused open spaces. “The ideas and local knowledge shared through these workshops will play an important role in shaping a draft Township Design Framework that reflects community aspirations from the very beginning.”
Healesville Placemaking Workshop: (Yarra Ranges Council). Cr McAllister thanked everyone who had contributed to the process so far. “We are now progressing the draft framework and continuing conversations with community groups across Healesville ahead of broader community consultation in 2027,” she said. “The response to this process has been incredibly positive. We’re already looking at how a similar approach could be used in other townships across Yarra Ranges. “I encourage residents to follow the project on the Shaping Yarra Ranges website and stay tuned for future opportunities to have their say in 2027.”
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IN BRIEF
QFF out and about By Gabriella Vukman An early detection of Queensland fruit fly in Coldstream has prompted calls for residents and growers to act now, with concerns warmer conditions could allow populations to build before the peak fruit season. Queensland fruit fly was detected in Coldstream on 11 October, marking the earliest detection of the pest recorded in the Yarra Valley, according to Agribusiness Yarra Valley project manager Bronwyn Koll. The detection comes after recent warm and humid weather and has raised concerns for the region’s fruit-growing industry as cherry, berry and other fruit crops head towards the warmer months. Ms Koll said the early sighting could be attributed to two likely factors. “It could be indicative of a warmer winter, which disrupts the natural seasonal repressant of the fruit fly.” “We could also be looking at a fruit fly being transported to the district, and this can happen commercially, it can happen residentially, and it can happen in a retail environment.” Ms Koll said there were not enough resources available to pinpoint where the detection originated or conclusively determine whether the fly had survived winter locally. Her concern is that an earlier start to the season could allow fruit fly numbers to grow sooner, increasing the risk of fruit damage later in summer. “Because we’re seeing fruit flies in October, my concern is that by Christmas time, the population will be low or medium, and then by March, it’ll be very high,” she said. “The population curve just goes up exponentially with the temperature.” Agribusiness Yarra Valley is urging residents and commercial growers to step up surveillance and take preventative measures before fruit fly numbers increase. Ms Koll said the organisation currently monitored a reduced network of about 75 traps, supported by temporary funding from Agriculture Victoria. The surveillance network allows the organisation to alert nearby commercial fruit growers and notify the wider community through social media, newspapers and its newsletter. Ms Koll said early detection was particularly valuable because fruit flies are easier to manage while populations remain low. She said growers had so far avoided significant commercial fruit losses through early warnings and action plans, but the impact of this season’s earlier detection remains uncertain. “While I can’t tell you exactly how much fruit loss will be incurred later this year, I can say if the fruit growers and backyarders all jump on board and take some action now, we can prevent a lot of loss.” Residents are being encouraged to increase fruit fly surveillance, clean up fallen and rotten fruit, prepare netting for ripening produce and remove weeds that can host the pest, including blackberries and wild tobacco. Ms Koll said fruit hygiene and targeted baiting were two key measures for managing fruit fly, while netting was particularly important for backyard gardeners. Unwanted fruit should be destroyed before
Woori Yallock home damaged, two cars set ablaze An attack on a Woori Yallock home involving a smashed window and two cars set on fire is believed to be “targeted”, police have said. The attack occurred on Eileen Grove at around 2.45am on 15 October and was followed shortly by another car fire on Shevlins Lane which was extinguished by CFA units from Hillcrest and Yellingbo. A Victoria Police spokesperson said detectives are working to establish if the incidents are linked. “The Ford Ranger was extensively damaged and there were no injuries. The investigation is ongoing,” they said. Occupants at the Eileen Grove property were forced to extinguish the flames of two cars at the property. There were no injuries. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
CCTV use can deter farm theft
Images from 2025 2026 summer of QFF in trap caught in proximity to unmanaged blackberries in Lilydale. The same site has recorded QFF this October – strikingly early and indicating of a high risk – high population QFF season because QFF breeding is starting so early. The host plants and fruit need to be managed to prevent QFF breeding.(Bronwyn Koll) disposal to prevent larvae from surviving inside it. Options include freezing or boiling suspect fruit, mulching it to minimise the larvae, or placing it in a bag and disposing of it in the rubbish bin. Residents should also check existing traps, install any that have been left unused and refresh lures according to the product instructions. For backyard fruit trees and vegetable gardens, Ms Koll said insect netting could provide more reliable protection than relying on baiting alone. “What I am really concerned about is February or late January, when the blackberries fruit,” she said. “Because blackberries are so uncontrolled, particularly on some roadsides and tattoos in Willondale.” She said unmanaged blackberries on private properties, vacant land and roadsides could undermine the efforts of commercial growers and residents who were actively protecting their own fruit. While councils had been working with Agribusiness Yarra Valley to address priority areas, Ms Koll said their ability to remove unwanted host trees and vegetation depended on who managed the land and whether permission had been granted. She also highlighted the need for greater attention to blackberries on state-controlled roads and unmanaged paddocks, where responsibility for control could be more complicated. Ms Koll said the Queensland fruit fly can attack a range of produce, with stone fruit particularly attractive to the pest. However, flies can lay eggs in other suitable
fruit if it was the closest available option. She urged residents to protect ripening fruit, including tomatoes and capsicums, rather than focusing exclusively on fruit trees. Ms Koll said managing Queensland fruit fly required a coordinated effort across residential properties, commercial orchards and public land. She expressed particular concern about Lilydale, where she said unmanaged blackberries and neglected fruit trees could provide opportunities for fruit fly populations to grow. “My main message is that we’ve got to work together on this,” she said. Ms Koll said she had confidence Coldstream land managers and fruit growers would take action, given their experience managing the pest and the significant investment at risk. Her greater concern was the number of unmanaged host plants and a lack of coordinated fruit fly control in Lilydale. Agribusiness Yarra Valley has previously received support from Agriculture Victoria for its Queensland fruit fly awareness and prevention work, alongside similar programs in the Goulburn Murray and Murray Valley regions. Ms Koll said sustained community participation would be important to prevent the current detection from developing into a larger problem as temperatures rise. Residents can contact Agribusiness Yarra Valley at qff@agribusiness-yarravalley.com for further information. More information about protecting backyard produce is available through Agriculture Victoria’s Queensland fruit fly management resources.
Victoria Police’s Farm Crime Unit encouraged outer east farmers to adopt easy-to-use CCTV cameras to help deter thiefs and keep their farms safe. Farm Crime Unit member Dan Hilton said there is a great variety of products available for farmers to use. “One of the things that really stands out for us is CCTV. We’re often talking to farmers about what they can do to deter thefts on their farms and make their farms less attractive for thieves that are looking for opportunistic crime,” he said. The cameras available can be solar powered, Wi-Fi enabled and don’t require an electrician to install. “They’re simple: attach them to your premises, attach them to your farm fence; you can have audible alarms that go off with them and sensor lights that go off with them,” he said. “Not only are they a great visual deterrence for anyone looking to come onto your farm, but you know you can monitor those via apps - like when someone moves, the cameras can pan and tilt and zoom for you, and are really a valuable tool for your farm to consider to deter criminals,” Mr Hilton said. Farmers can also use video captured by their CCTV cameras to help police in their investigations. If you need to report a non-urgent crime to police, you can do so here: police.vic.gov.au/report.
Hoons get held up by Highway Patrol A hoon meet at Mt Donna Buang “scattered like rats from a sinking ship” after Yarra Ranges Highway Patrol members turned up and busted a P-plater on 8 October. The P-plater was issued $1500 in infringement notices and subsequently received a defect notice after his vehicle was inspected at the Lilydale Police Station on 10 October. Around 12 vehicles and numerous people had gathered at a hoon meet on Mt Donna Buang Rd.
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Backflip on disaster funds By Claudia Mather On Tuesday 13 October, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) announced they will retain the existing disaster recovery cost-sharing arrangements. The decision follows NEMA’s extensive consultation with states, territories, and local communities, who were concerned that proposed changes would burden councils. The proposed changes would have seen the activation threshold rise from $240,000 to $2.7 million. On the same day, at the Yarra Ranges Council meeting, Councillors expressed their concerns about the initial proposed changes. “We’re looking at endorsing the submission made by the Yarra Ranges Council to the consultation opportunity provided to local government for the NEMA, on the proposed changes to the disaster recovery framework,” he explained. “Particularly when frequent smaller storms create major cumulative damage.” “Any threshold review should recognise the significant impact that events can have on communities and council resources,” he said. Yarra Ranges is one of the most disaster-prone regions of Victoria, often experiencing significant riverine and storm flooding, bushfire, landslip, storm and treefall damage. “Yarra Ranges experiences the second highest number of incidents of natural disasters warranting recovery funding of any Australian government authority since 2006 to 2007,” Cr Marriott said. Additionally, the Dandenong Ranges in Council’s municipality has the highest bushfire risk in Greater Melbourne, whilst Yarra Ranges ranks third in Victoria for storm hotspots and has Melbourne’s second-highest proportion of properties at medium-to-high risk from climate change. The Council supports disaster funding reform but is advocating for a model that more accurately reflects the realities faced by councils experi-
NEMA will retain the existing Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. (Supplied) encing frequent and cumulative disaster impacts. The council’s feedback covers proposed areas such as thresholds for triggering assistance, standardised packages, betterment for resilient infrastructure, and the impact of disaster on First Nations people. “We recommended the provision of flexible and scalable recovery packages based on local impact and risks,” Cr Marriott said. “We look at the concepts where committees need timely, fair and reliable disaster support, regardless of whether they are affected by major disasters or a series of smaller events,” he explained. Councillor Peter McIlwain acknowledged that this is where the council is particularly vulnerable financially. “We have already encountered the financial impact of significant storms and, of course, as we know, a year hasn’t gone by in the last 5 years where we haven’t had to face some significant event,” he said. Cr Mcilwain said that climate science shows an increase in both the severity and frequency of
Think friends in every neighbour
events. “This is the thing that particularly concerns me, with respect to the raising of the threshold; it’s essentially illuminating a lot of risk, or failing to address a lot of the risk we face in the Yarra Ranges, and what we will increasingly face over the coming decade as climate change progresses,” he said. “It’s very critical that we get adequate support for these threats that we’re going to face in the future.” Councillor Fiona McAllister reflected on the significant impact the 2021 storms had on communities and the council. She noted that since 2020, the council has spent $45 million on storm recovery while recovering only $22 million, which is less than 50%. “The impact on us as a council was profound,” she said. “Whilst the changes to the proposed thresholds might not seem substantial, the modelling shows that retrospectively the additional $3 mil-
lion would have been below proposed thresholds and we wouldn’t have been eligible to claim for those events.” Cr McAllister said that financial sustainability is a significant responsibility for the council, as well as protecting communities, providing for quality of life and community infrastructure. “Any changes that see further reductions in our reimbursement while supporting the substantial rebuilds for our community are hugely problematic.” “It’s probably the understatement of the year,” she noted. Cr Marriott said that endorsing the submission and continuing the commitment to advocacy establishes the council’s position, which supports the final design of the funding framework. “It reinforces councils’ request for flexible activation thresholds, scalable recovery packages, greater betterment funding and culturally informed recovery,” he said. Mayor Richard Higgins agreed, noting that with the many events that occur in the Yarra Ranges, most meet the million-dollar marks. “If we end up with 10 events that cost $3 million, we lose out by $24 million. That’s the difference it’s going to make,” he said. “That gap is going to get wider and wider and wider.” “It must be addressed urgently,” he said. Cr Marriott said that the cost of disasters is increasing significantly, making it critical for the council to invest more in resilience, risk reduction and preparedness to reduce future recovery costs and strengthen community outcomes. “Council supports reform of the disaster recovery funding arrangement, recognising that the current system is no longer keeping pace with the growing frequency and cost of disasters.” The Councillors voted to move the motion unanimously. While NEMA’s recent decision preserves the status quo for now, Council’s unanimous vote ensures their advocacy for a more sustainable, responsive funding model is only just beginning.
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Alpine Hotel the top pub By Oliver Winn The Alpine Hotel has cemented its top-pub status after it was crowned Pub of the Year at the 2026 The Age Good Food Guide Awards. Alpine Hotel staff were overwhelmed with excitement at the award ceremony at The Timber Yard in Port Melbourne on Monday 12 October. Alpine Hotel co-owner Anthony Northwood said staff were “stunned” and in tears when they won. “From what [Alpine Hotel co-owner] Rach told me, as they were presenting the award, there were little telltale signs that indicated potentially that it might have been the Alpine “Rach was starting to get really excited and started punching James in the ribs saying, ‘It’s gonna be us. It’s gonna be us’,” he said. Mr Northwood, who was following the event at home via a livestream, said he “just couldn’t believe it” when they announced the win. “I was getting feedback from them saying that they were in tears, the staff, just with pride of what they’d achieved. So it was amazing.” It followed the pub’s Best Casual Dining – Metro category win at the Australian Hotels Association Victoria’s 2026 State Awards for Excellence in May. Mr Northwood said it was a “massive” feat to take out two top hospitality awards in the same year. “To have this happen so soon after that, it just ratifies that we’re on the right path, I guess. So it gives everybody involved motivation and some excitement to lift it even higher,” he said. Yarra Ranges Council O’Shannassy Ward councillor Jim Child congratulated the pub via social media. South Indian restaurant Babajis Kerala Kitchen Yarra Valley also praised the Alpine Hotel in
a post. “This award could not go to a more deserving team,” the post read. When Rachael and Anthony Northwood bought the 141-year-old historic pub in 2021, the place “needed a bit of TLC”. Just two weeks into running the pub, a major Covid-19 lockdown “pulled the rug out from under” the owners. But the business owner power couple used the time to renovate the accommodation upstairs and expand the kitchen. Mr Northwood credits the renos as a key factor that bought success to the pub. “Over the four or five-year period, it’s really started to elevate the offer and the quality of the food,” he said. From enthusiastic employees taking on managerial roles to budding apprentice chefs learning the ropes, Alpine Hotel has enabled many to develop their working careers. In 2021, it only employed nine people, but now, 66 staff are on its roster. Mr Northwood said increased staff retention was also helping the pub provide a more consistent service. “We feel really confident in our service because the staff have been trained and have been with us for quite a long time now,” he said. Wine dinner nights, weekend breakfast buffets and an improved accommodation offering all form part of a “holistic” approach to hospitality. “We’ve got the accommodation offering, and obviously the other bits and pieces with wine dinners and buffet breakfasts have all tied together, and I think it had a pretty big impact on why we were successful,” Mr Northwood said. The win was also an “unbelievable feather” in Alpine Hotel executive chef James Holdom’s cap.
Co-owners Anthony and Rachael Northwood with chef Mr Holdom. (Supplied)
Roadmap of hope: Centre launches Climate Justice Program By Mikayla van Loon The culmination of multiple years’ worth of work and over 40 contributing organisations led to the launch of Eastern Community Legal Centre’s Climate Justice Program on Thursday 15 October. Recognising that climate change and community resilience require a collaborative effort across the Yarra Ranges, ECLC endeavoured to build a foundation of connectedness. The message that not one person or organisation can tackle the climate crisis alone, nor the preparation or response, was evident throughout the launch event. Climate justice, as defined by ECLC, is the meeting point between social justice and climate change, and looks to ensure “community and government responses are driven by equitable, fair, and inclusive interventions”. ECLC has a long history of providing free legal help, information, referrals, and community education across the east, particularly since the Black Saturday bushfires in 2009 and more recently the storms of 2021 and 2024. Climate justice principal Donna Askew said that while ECLC has been the local lead for disaster legal help, this body of work goes beyond that. “What makes this project special is its focus on cross-sector collaboration, and we know that climate impacts do not neatly arrive packaged as a single problem,” she said. “After a bushfire, a storm, or a flood, people may face housing issues, financial hardship, health concerns, legal problems, food insecurity, and social isolation, and often all at once. “No single service can meet these needs. But together, we can create a more connected and resilient community and community service network.” The program also identifies that often those most impacted by climate disasters are marginalised communities or those most disadvantaged. From years of responding to climate disasters, Ms Askew said ECLC has developed “knowledge and practical tools to identify legal problems” that arise during and after an emergency. These typically include housing, insurance, debt, employment, social security, and family violence concerns.
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ECLC principal Donna Askew, Sanja Nenadic, Yarra Ranges Council manager Corinne Bowen and ECLC chief officer Michael Smith at the launch. (Stewart Chambers: 583261) By working with more than 40 organisations across each of these areas of concern, the climate justice program and Yarra Ranges Climate Partnership Collaborative Action Plan aim to drive collective action with a unified vision to improve outcomes for people impacted by climate disasters. “Our place-based partnerships, community education, targeted projects, policy advocacy, and law reform work seek not only to respond after a disaster, but to address the systemic drivers of risk and ensure that communities experiencing disadvantage have the resources, the rights,
and voice to prepare, adapt, and recover,” Ms Askew said. The action plan has five key elements: connected services, community resilience, organisational resilience, sustainable funding, and rights and advocacy. Yarra Ranges Council resilient environment manager Corinne Bowen welcomed ECLC’s work and said initiatives like these “represent a really important step forward in how we work together to support our communities before, during, and after climate-related events”. Having worked at Yarra Ranges Council for
10 years, Ms Bowen said she’d seen and experienced the full spectrum of climate disasters, but more so in recent years. “We have certainly experienced firsthand the increasing impacts of climate change across the Yarra Ranges, across our beautiful landscape. “Everything from fires, storms, floods, flash flooding, landslip, extreme weather events, and beyond. And they are becoming more frequent and more complex.” Ms Bowen said that between the period of 2022 and 2024, the council had between nine and 13 disaster recovery funding claims lodged with the federal government. She said if that did not tell the story of the impact of climate change, then nothing did. From those claims and experiences, Ms Bowen said it made her think that things had to be done differently and better. “It’s not just about continuing to support these services, but it’s about us as people too. We need each other to get through this, and we need the partnerships. “There is no sum of money. There is no single organisation or single individual that can tackle these challenges alone.” Guest speaker Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino congratulated ECLC and all partnering organisations on the work, connections and “weighty” action plan. As a Hills resident and MP, Ms De Martino said she had experienced firsthand the challenges with rising insurance costs and telecommunications outages. But while she reflected on the hardships people face day-to-day living in one of the hardest-hit climate disaster regions, Ms De Martino said: “This is a roadmap and an action plan of hope” While the launch focused on the action plan and the steps to move forward, there was an overwhelming sense that the most integral part was the newly formed relationships. “The strength of the partnership is not the document itself; it is the network of relationships that sit behind it,” Ms Askew said. “Those relationships will help us ensure that when future climate and disaster challenges arise, our communities are supported by connected, coordinated, and resilient systems.”
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Yarra Ranges dominate blitz By Oliver Winn The combined effort of 569 nature-loving locals in the Yarra Ranges has secured the region first place for the 2026 Biodiversity Blitz. With just under 10,000 observations throughout September, the Yarra Ranges beat last year’s winner, Frankston City Council, by 2116 observations. The win was announced on 13 October and Yarra Ranges Council’s planning and sustainable futures director Kath McClusky said it was great to see so many locals taking part. “We’ve been participating in the Biodiversity Blitz since 2021 and have seen a steady increase in participants over this time, with 569 residents participating this year. “It’s wonderful to see so many Yarra Ranges resident participate, and we encourage all community members who are keen to engage and learn about local flora and fauna to participate in the program next year,” she said. The iNaturalist Biodiversity Blitz is a yearly competition between councils across Victoria that sees who can record the most species during biodiversity month in September. From fungi to flora and fauna, citizen scientists spend their time photographing the wide array of species in the region. Ms McClusky said the Yarra Ranges was teeming with wildlife and unique vegetation, making it a prime region for the competition. “These unique features and proximity to Melbourne make our region a popular location for engaging with the natural world through our reserves, trails, parks, waterways and large corridors of beautiful public land. “The program builds an appreciation and understanding of the diversity of flora, fauna and fungi of our municipality, and informs our efforts to protect and enhance our natural environments,” she said. The species with the most observations were the Australian mountain greenhood (98), an orchid endemic to south-eastern Australia, followed by the famous crimson rosella (83).
A greater glider captured during the 2026 Biodiversity Blitz. (Ryan Claus) In third place with 71 observations was the wonga vine, trailed by the large bird-orchid (66) and the unmistakable laughing kookaburra (65). The citizen science community pulled through this year for the Yarra Ranges. Sitting
comfortably in first place for observations recorded was Reiner Richter. Mr Richter recorded 1302 observations, double that of the runner-up. The Yarra Ranges Council said in a social media post that the observations contributed
to more than just winning the competition. “Your observations don’t just help us win the Biodiversity Blitz – they contribute to citizen science and help researchers better understand the incredible biodiversity that calls Yarra Ranges home.”
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New addition for the event, a Hay Maze for the kids. (585150)
The sun was out for the first day of the festival. (585150)
Machines, old and new at Wandin Silvan Field Days. (Claudia Mather: 585150)
Cuddly baby animals. (585150)
Local Field Days a success By Claudia Mather A warm and sunny day settled over the hills as the 2026 Wandin Silvan Field Days commenced on Friday 16 October at the Wandin East Recreation Reserve, celebrating local agricultural and horticultural communities. The well-known festival featured exhibitors ranging from old and new farm machinery, light industrial and irrigation equipment, a petting zoo, motor vehicles, and informative stalls with the latest on pest and weed control, fertilisers, and chemicals. Wandin Silvan Field Days President Brad Finger was applauding the perfect weather. “This is my fifth year as President, and this is probably the best weather we’ve had,” he said. Mr Finger explained that the event caters to all, with Friday focussing more on the farming sector and Saturday focusing on families and lifestyle hobby farmers. “Part of that is giving people an education in farming.” Casey MP Aaron Violi, who was also set up on site, acknowledged that the Wandin Silvan Field Days have been an institution in the community for decades. “It’s a really important chance for our farmers and community to get together, connect,
talk, buy some new machinery and really just have a good social atmosphere as well.” “Before politics, my family was in farming, so I spent a lot of time here, and I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact that the field days have,” he said. A crowd-favourite at the event was the displays of old machinery from the Yarra Valley Machinery Preservation Society (YVMPS). “At these Field Day events, there is lots of new machinery; these old ones are the beginnings of them; this is where it all started,” YVMPS Society Promotions Officer Phillip Beverage said. “A lot of this stuff was made in Australia, and we are trying to preserve a bit of Australian history and show it off to the younger generations who probably haven’t seen this sort of stuff before.” Mr Beverage said that distance kept electricity out of rural areas back when cities were the only ones powered “So these machines powered those farms.” “A lot of older people reminisce a little bit, especially at these sorts of events; they mean a lot more to people,” Mr Beverage said, smiling. Local banks also set up stalls amongst the festival to connect with community members. “We are here because this is a community event and that is what we are all about,” Ben-
Yarra Valley Machinery Preservation Society displayed old machinery. (585150)
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digo Community Bank Wandin Seville Senior Manager Jackie Butler said. “It gets everyone together at the same time; we refresh friendships, make new ones, and we’re able to take in a bit more of a relaxed atmosphere as well.” Local grower and visitor, Jason Dekker said he attended the event to look out for new bits and pieces for his farm and home. “When you’re bringing 25 businesses together that I’m interested in seeing, it’s just sort of handy to be able to see them all in one place,” he said. “Plus, you see the local community as well, and a lot of people you know.” Members of local CFA brigades were also set up on site to educate the community about the upcoming fire season. Seville CFA member Claire Knowles said it is an important event for community safety. “It’s great to be out in the community where people can ask questions.” “We always hope to encourage people to look at their fire plans and get ready for the fire season ahead,” Ms Knowles explained. The 2026 Wandin Silvan Field Days serve as another great way for agricultural and horticultural locals to connect in the sunshine to celebrate.
Local brigades out and about educating visitors about the upcoming fire season. (585150)
The sun was shining on day 1. (585150)
Baby animals on site. (585150)
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St Brigid’s marks milestone By Gabriella Vukman St Brigid’s Catholic School in Healesville has marked 125 years of education with the opening of a new learning building and a community celebration honouring generations of students, families and staff. Established as an independent parish in November 1899, St Brigid’s dates its primary school back to 1901, making its 125th anniversary a milestone in more than a century of education, the catholic faith and community life in Healesville. The Oak Building was officially opened on Friday 16 October by Senator Lisa Darmanin, with the school’s 125th anniversary celebrations continuing on Saturday 17 October. The new facilities provide four classrooms, general learning areas and outdoor learning space designed to connect with the school’s natural surroundings. St Brigid’s principal Tess Dwyer said the vision for the building was to create a learning environment that reflected Healesville’s unique setting. “The building replaces some really old facilities that were not really suitable for students.” “We wanted the new facilities to connect with Healesville’s beautiful, unique environment,” she said. “We’ve got a lovely bush play space down the back and this building connects beautifully with that space.” The project received $1 million in Australian Government funding through the Capital Grants Program, alongside support from the Catholic Development Fund (CDF) and the school community. CDF executive manager of client relationships Gerard Bibile said the fund helped schools meet remaining costs when government funding and other available contributions were not sufficient to cover planned developments. “The schools start through their master plan works around what developments are needed for
The whole school gathered for the ceremony. (Gabriella Vukman: 585126).
St Brigid’s celebrated the opening of their new Oak Building in conjunction with their 125th year anniversary. (Gabriella Vukman: 585126). the school on a long-term basis,” he said. “They’ll then see how much government and community funding they have.” “CDF steps in after that to fill the gaps, supplying the leftover funding.” Mr Bibile said supporting schools in smaller towns and Melbourne’s outer growth areas was important to maintaining access to Catholic education. “It’s really important, to ensure that there’s Catholic education in these small towns,” he said. “We are also seeing population growth in these suburbs in the outer fringe of Melbourne, so it’s really important that we step in and help
support and fund these amazing developments.” The new learning spaces have already made an impression on staff, with longtime Prep teacher Rebecca Dove describing her new classroom as a welcome addition to the school. “I love teaching in my new Prep classroom and feel very fortunate to share this beautiful, quiet and peaceful learning space with our fabulous little people,” she said. “The amazing acoustics and natural colour scheme create a calm and welcoming environment that is ideal for teaching and learning.” “This is the first time I have moved into a brand-new building, so I am thoroughly enjoy-
ing the experience and making the most of every minute!” The anniversary also offers an opportunity to reflect on the broader history of St Brigid’s parish, which has weathered economic hardship and devastating bushfires in its 125-year history. The school celebrated its milestone with a community gathering featuring memorabilia displays, an art show, olden-day games, collaborative artwork, a barbecue and a cake stall, providing past and present members of the school community with an opportunity to reconnect. Ms Dwyer said the school’s longstanding community connections remained central to its identity and future. “Our school is like the heart of Healesville with our beautiful community and that’s what we really want to keep in the future,” she said. “Our new building and the other celebrations are a real testament to that community.” As St Brigid’s looks ahead to the next generation of students, Ms Dwyer said its motto continued to guide the school. “Our motto is grow in wisdom and love, and that really guides us through and has for a long time and will continue to do so in the future.” The Oak Building represents a new chapter for the school, combining updated learning facilities with the community spirit that has sustained St Brigid’s throughout its 125-year history.
The history of Eastern Golf Club captured in new book By Callum Ludwig A new book is now available that covers the 117year history of the Eastern Golf Club. Club members and co-authors Dr Ian Monks, Jeff Moy and Colin Hansen researched long and hard into the many iterations of the club over its history, a task made all the more important after a devastating blaze destroyed the clubrooms and much of the memorabilia inside in 2023. Dr Monks said it’s fantastic to have launched the book as of 18 October. “The original 2005 edition was a small book that only scratched the surface and included some errors, it was incredible to discover the true link back to the 1900s and work forward,” he said. “The Trove online database of early newspapers has been invaluable, accessing the Club magazines covering 50 years and tapping the memories of our older members to document the Club’s years has revealed so many interesting people and stories. “This second edition runs to 500 pages and captures the history and member stories for their families and future members.” The Eastern Golf Club was formed in 1909 as Middleborough Golf Club, renamed as Box Hill Golf Club in 1912, and re-established in Doncaster in 1924. Mr Moy said before the Club moved to its present Yarra Valley site in Yering 11 years ago, it had a very long history linked to golf courses at Box Hill, Doncaster and Huntingdale. “We established that the Eastern Golf Club started in 1909 as the Middleborough Golf Club, a time when Box Hill was farmland and the course was played on members’ paddocks along Middleborough Road,” he said. “Many young golfers who became leading players in Victorian golf started at the Club’s hilly links in Doncaster. The relentless encroachment of suburbia forced the Club to move courses several times. “It spent 90 years in Doncaster before the last move to Yering, in the Yarra Valley’s Green Wedge Zone, ensuring Eastern Golf Club can have a long life in the Area.” The 2023 fire at the Eastern Golf Club was so significant that CFA crews remained on site overnight and into the following day to monitor 10 MAIL | Tuesday, 20 October, 2026
Plumes of smoke billowed from the Eastern Golf Club after a fire broke out in 2023. (File)
The 1976 Men’s Pennant winning team, including co-author Colin Hansen standing second from the right. (Supplied) and extinguish hotspots. 26 appliances from the CFA and Fire Rescue Victoria attended the incident, which took over three hours to bring under control. Dr Monks said the fire was a wake up call for the Eastern Golf Club and all golf clubs to digitise their historical documents and store memorabilia in fire proof areas. “We lost most of our history material, retaining some that was held offsite, photographs taken during the research of memorabilia, trophies, honourboards and the hole-in-one register has allowed us to recreate some of these items,” he said. “The extra two years brought on by the clubhouse fire has allowed us to round out much of the research and add two more years to the book. “We did hold a muted centenary celebration in our temporary clubhouse tent when the Golf Society played a game of hickory golf on a special course we called Hickory Waters.” The large format book contains more than 500 photographs, maps, plans and diagrams, showcasing everything from grounds and clubhouses, to prominent men and women golfers past and present, and beautiful trophies. Dr Monks said the story of the AIF Cup where over 500 ex-servicemen regularly played on Show Days in the 1920s and 30s was one of many interesting discoveries from their research. “Then there were the early champions: Ron
Harris and Basil Mogg both remain the youngest and second youngest Club Champions. Jean Arnot was the youngest women’s champion until just the last two years. Other notable women include Nell Hutton and Burtta Cheney and more recently Dorothea Booth,” he said. “The Club’s professional Charlie Conners played a match against the great Babe Didrickson who played off the men’s tees, Conners beating her by a single stroke. “Of particular interest to me were stories of the Club’s creation and transitions as the Club moved to new locations – what actually happened, why and who made it happen. Dealing with the link to Huntingdale was a bit tricky. We agreed with Huntingdale to consider their move from Eastern at Doncaster to Oakleigh as a split that involved most members moving to the new course and some remaining at Doncaster and so continuing the Eastern GC.” Copies of the book can be purchased by contacting reception at the Eastern Golf Club at 03 9739 0110. Dr Monks said everyone who has seen the early chapters, manuscripts and the few that seen the book are impressed by the quality of the Eastern Press printing. “Huntingdale Golf Club, which had been built by Eastern members in 1941, were preparing their own centenary celebrations, were most interested in the additional years from 1909, and changed their plans for a centenary,” he said.
Aerial photos of the remnants of the Eastern Golf Club following the fire. (Jason East Photography)
Small planes bombed golfers with bags of flour at the AIF Cup published in The Australasian in October 1933. (Trove)
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Industry feeling the squeeze By Gabriella Vukman The Yarra Valley’s reputation as a premium wine region may offer some protection from Australia’s wine industry downturn, but rising production costs, changing consumer habits and growing conditions are putting local producers under increasing pressure. The voluntary administration of Healesville-based Mac Forbes Wines has brought those challenges into focus, with industry figures warning that even established businesses are struggling to balance the cost of producing quality wine with what consumers are willing to pay. Mac Forbes Wines founder and director Mac Forbes said the region has a positive long-term outlook, but acknowledged the difficult conditions facing producers currently. “The strong Yarra Ranges community and our connection to Melbourne leaves the region in a really strong place,” he said. “But the issue of Phylloxera, which has coincided with such a difficult time in the market, has made life really challenging.” For Mr Forbes, the investment in replanting due to phylloxera co-occurred with a downturn in sales, leaving the business carrying significant costs while young vines were not yet producing fruit. The winery, which launched 22 years ago and established three vineyards across the Yarra Valley, entered voluntary administration in the hopes to reset after a proposed business partnership failed to eventuate. “We have submitted a new plan with some new partners to get the business up and running again,” Mr Forbes said. “Administration is an awful thing and it has been incredibly brutal and humbling.” “Most of the distress lies in the impact it has on people attached to the business, such as staff and suppliers.” Mr Forbes said he is hoping this voluntary administration chapter is soon behind him and the Mac Forbes team. “I am really ready to move forward now with something that we have invested so much in.” “We have a lot of unfinished business.” Mr Forbes said the cost of farming and making wine is particularly difficult for smaller producers, which rely heavily on local labour and hands-on vineyard management. While the future of Mac Forbes Wines remains tied to that process, the circumstances highlight the competing pressures facing the wider region. De Bortoli viticulturist and vineyard manager Rob Sutherland, who has been inducted into the Yarra Valley Hall of Fame for his contribution to the region’s wine industry, said labour and energy costs account for about 65 per cent of vineyard operating costs. “The cost of seasonal labour for vineyards is currently in the range of $41 and $45 per hour.” “This is roughly double the rate from seven or eight years ago,” he said. “Directly employed wage earners have also had three per cent to five per cent increases per annum for the previous few years.” Mr Sutherland said rising diesel and electricity costs have added further pressure. Despite rising production costs, Mr Sutherland said the Yarra Valley’s focus on lighter-style table wines has helped shield it from the oversupply affecting some warmer, red wine-producing regions. “The demand for grapes from wineries in the Yarra Valley has also reduced as larger corporations scale back on small to medium winemakers,” he said. “This causes grape prices to not keep pace with the costs of production for many growers.” TIGHT MARGINS AND DELAYED RETURNS The financial pressure extends beyond the vineyard, with producers facing a lengthy wait between paying to grow grapes and receiving revenue from finished wine. Wine Yarra Valley regional operations manager Nicole Esdaile said the region’s premium positioning does not eliminate the challenges facing businesses. “The Yarra Valley is a little sheltered from the challenges facing the wider industry, but we are all still feeling the squeeze,” she said. “Despite the perception, margins in the wine business have always been very tight, and the Yarra Valley is a particularly expensive place to grow grapes.” “While we are positioned at the luxury end of the market, and focused on cool-climate varieties and styles that are fortunately the current fashion and in the strongest global demand, everyone, at every stage of the supply chain in the 12 MAIL | Tuesday, 20 October, 2026
Yarra Valley winemakers feel the squeeze as industry pressures mount. (Unsplash)
Administration is an awful thing and it has been incredibly brutal and humbling.” – Mac Forbes Wines founder and director, Mac Forbes industry is feeling the impact of the downturn.” Ms Esdaile said most wineries end up selling only a small proportion of their production at full retail price and the remainder going through distributors, retailers and export markets at lower prices. She said the long delay before any return on investment is another major issue for the industry. “Growers carry the costs of producing grapes well before the fruit is delivered to the winery.” “Winemakers, in turn, carry production costs long before the wine reaches the market, sometimes up to three years after the fruit arrives,” she said. “Because the cycle runs on a single annual vintage, there’s no chance to course-correct midyear, and investment decisions, such as what to plant, fruit to purchase, what wine to make and when to release, have to be made without knowing what future market conditions will look like.” Ms Esdaile said this makes innovation and management of cash flow difficult for operators without a secondary income source. She said the industry has also experienced significant market changes since the Covid-19 pandemic, rendering financial planning increasingly difficult. “The shifts since Covid have exacerbated con-
ditions and there is no doubt that many producers are feeling the pressure and could be only a dose of bad luck or a bad decision away from a sticky spot.” Growers must meet the costs of producing grapes before delivering them to wineries, while winemakers can wait up to three years after receiving fruit before a wine reaches the market. Because decisions about planting, purchasing grapes and producing wine must be made well in advance, businesses cannot easily respond when market conditions change. SHIFTING CONSUMER PREFERENCES Changing drinking habits and cost-of-living pressures are also reshaping the market. Mr Forbes said consumers were becoming more selective about their purchases, seeking quality and transparency about where wine came from and how it was produced, while remaining conscious of price. He said the industry needs to consider how wine can remain accessible as consumers reassess their spending. “I like the idea of sharing and the communal table kind of environment, which historically in the world has not been about exclusivity or wealth,” he said. “But I think when we look at the price of wine and compare it to other beverages, it’s hard to say that it’s an everyday beverage.” Mr Forbes said younger people are also choosing to drink less, raising broader questions about the role wine may play in the future. He said reducing production and focusing on local markets could be part of a more sustainable approach. “If we can farm properly and on a slightly smaller scale and deliver more locally, we can create a more sustainable industry,” he said. Mike Emmett of Barrique Wine Store said the shift in drinking culture is already visible in customer purchasing habits. “People are buying less but they’re buying
better,” he said. “Instead of buying two $30 bottles, they’re buying one $45 bottle.” Mr Emmett said the Yarra Valley’s premium positioning might offer some protection, but the wider industry was being squeezed by several factors, including reduced export demand and oversupply. He also identified difficulties with large hospitality groups paying their bills as a concern for producers, who can be left waiting for money owed for their products. While Mr Emmett labelled overproduction as a significant issue, he said it was difficult to attribute the industry’s problems to one cause, with changes in consumption, export markets and purchasing practices all contributing to tighter conditions. “Overproduction is a key issue and we are only stuck with it because our export markets have collapsed.” He said the current pressure on wine has followed several difficult years for independent breweries, with closures and job losses demonstrating the effects of a tightening market. “We have lost a lot of great beer companies and I have great friends who have had to exit the industry because of the pressure.” “But the squeeze on wine at the moment is only just starting to be felt,” he said. “Even with Dave Bicknell - one of the greatest winemakers Australia has ever seen losing his job here in the Yarra Ranges after over 24 years shows that there is a lot of pressure.” In the face of current industry struggles, Mr Emmett said the immediate priority is ensuring the people behind the businesses were not forgotten as the industry adjusted. “I think first and foremost what we have to do as a community at the moment is look out for the mental health of people who are under stress and pressure.” CONTINUED PAGE 13
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Wine market challenges have been compounded by phylloxera. (Rob Carew: 542978)
Hope amid the challenges By Gabriella Vukman
The region remains optimistic despite ongoing challenges. (542978) important contributor to the region’s economy and visitor offering. “Yarra Ranges Council works with industry, government agencies and regional partners such as Agribusiness Yarra Valley to support the longterm sustainability, resilience and diversification of the region’s agribusiness and visitor economy sectors.” “Council also works with Tourism East and industry partners to strengthen the region’s visitor economy, recognising the important contribution of wineries, cellar doors, hospitality and accommodation businesses,” she said.
In the face of difficulty, Mr Forbes said the local wine community has remained supportive, with producers sharing experiences and working through the difficult period together. “Our local industry is a small industry where everyone knows each other and it is really supportive,” he said. “Sometimes it’s just a phone call or a chat over a beer to talk through how we see the industry shifting and how consumers see the product.” “The staff have been incredible and our customers and suppliers have all been remarkable.” He said the current challenges presented an opportunity for the industry to reassess how it farmed, produced and sold wine. “This chapter is all about the industry as a community, and how we work together to get through.” As the region navigates rising costs, changing consumer preferences and the ongoing effects of phylloxera, the challenge will be maintaining the quality and character that have made the Yarra Valley a recognised wine destination while ensuring its growers and producers can remain financially viable.
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FROM PAGE 12 PHYLLOXERA IN THE VALLEY For Yarra Valley growers, the challenges of the wider wine market are compounded by the cost and time involved in managing phylloxera, a pest that damages grapevine roots. Ms Esdaile said the pest has reshaped the region’s vineyards since it was detected in the early 2000s, with the area under vine believed to have fallen from about 2500 hectares to fewer than 2000 hectares. She said replanting provides an opportunity to improve vineyard quality and longevity, but has come with substantial upfront costs and a lengthy loss of production. “New phylloxera-resistant grafted vines are up to four to five times more expensive than vines on their own roots.” “It can be a great opportunity to refresh the vineyard and improve quality and longevity of planting material, but a new vine isn’t productive for at least three years and doesn’t reach optimal production for seven to eight, so there is a lot to
weigh up and a huge gap in revenue, not to mention profit.” HOPE FOR THE REGION Despite the pressures, Ms Esdaile said the region retains important advantages, including its established reputation for premium cool-climate wines, its proximity to Melbourne and its access to domestic and international visitors. “There is no argument that we are in for a tight few years, but the Yarra Valley wine industry has reason to be more optimistic than many.” “We have an established reputation as one of Australia’s truly world-class wine regions, and we are consistently its most recognised, awarded and endorsed,” she said. “While other regions struggle to sell their heavy red wines and battle excessive volumes of stock, because we are focused on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir - the most popular wine styles few Yarra Valley producers are sitting on many multiple years’ worth of unsold stock.” Ms Esdaile said the Yarra Valley has its beauty and location on Melbourne’s doorstep on its side. Yarra Ranges Council director of communities Leanne Hurst said the wine industry remained an
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Dandenong FRV’s ladder platform soared above locals as they mingled with emergency service members. (Yarra Junction CFA)
Emergency service crews came together for a great day of community engagement. (Yarra Junction CFA)
The Dandenong FRV’s ladder platform provided a great view of the scene. (Yarra Junction CFA)
Ambulance Victoria members showed up to the event. (Little Yarra CFA)
Healesville SES members chatted with the community. (Little Yarra CFA)
Delicious sweet treats were on offer at the Clark’s Ice Cream Van. (Yarra Junction CFA)
Captain Koala posed for some
Open day impresses The Yarra Junction CFA’s 2026 Community Open Day was a blazing success among the township with crowds packing out the township on Saturday 10 October. Appliances from the Yarra Junction and Little Yarra CFAs were on show, while members from the Yarra Junction Ambulance Victoria branch and the SES also came along to engage with the community. “We hope you came along and enjoyed checking out the appliances from Yarra Junction and Little Yarra Fire Brigades, having a chat with the AV and SES crews, and grabbing an ice cream, coffee or a cyclone potato,” the Yarra Junction CFA said in a social media post. A towering ladder platform, courtesy of the Dandenong Fire Rescue Victoria brigade, was stationed nearby, showing off the brigade’s impressive piece of equipment. Yarra Junction CFA said it’d love to hear back from the community about the day. “Your feedback is important to us, and we’d love to know what you enjoyed and what we could do differently to make next year’s event even better. “We encourage everyone who attended to leave us some feedback and help us make our next Community Open Day bigger and better,” they said. Yarra Junction CFA are always looking out for new recruits. (Yarra Junction CFA) 14 MAIL | Tuesday, 20 October, 2026
The crew from Eastey Fire Trucks showed off their classic cars. (Yarra Junction CFA)
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What a day! By Oliver Winn The Millgrove Open Day was a “powerful” event of community connection that engaged all ages under brilliant sunshine on 14 October. Held by Millgrove Residents Action Group (MRAG), the day saw not-for-profit stallholders and local organisations bring exciting activities and important education to the Millgrove township. MRAG project coordinator Janice Burney said the level of engagement between marketgoers and stallholders was great to see. “Each group had really well-thought-out activities… Normally, you see people just walking up and down, but these people were actually engaged in a lot of the depots,” she said. Each organisation combined to create an event greater than the sum of its parts. Emergency services like the Wesburn-Millgrove CFA and the Upper Yarra SES were on site, AusNet were educating locals on power outages, and the Candlebark Nursery were also attending. Meanwhile, Yarra Valley FM radio held a live broadcast, which Ms Burney said was “really encouraging” for the local station. “They want to come back; they had a great time. But also, hello, we have a really good local radio station, and aren’t we lucky to have that?” Ms Burney said it was great to have the Warburton-Yarra Junction Community Bank at the open day as they could see the groups they’d supported through donations and sponsorships. The Wesburn-Millgrove CFA kept kids engaged while informing locals of how they can prepare for the upcoming fire season. “Part of our MRAG campaign is about resilience and obviously being prepared. So that’s,
again, a focus, but there’s a lot of other activities that the community can engage with which just builds that resilience up, fit to what we’re trying to achieve,” she said. Ms Burney gave the Upper Yarra SES a “special shout out” for its jaws of life attraction. “They would’ve had 10 or 15 young people, they would’ve been in their twenties. And I just thought that was really pleasing.” “SES, of course, they used the jaws of life to cut up their car, and they were there for forty-five minutes, and people were pretty much glued to it just about to the end of the show,” Ms Burney said. Meanwhile, the Upper Yarra Rotary provided lunch with its sausage sizzle barbecue and the ADRA Redwood Centre’s coffee van ensured everyone had their caffeine fix. U3A and Benwerren were out and about at the event, letting locals know about their offerings. Nick Love also had his cartoon lessons and Ms Burney said he was a “real gem” who kept the kids entertained. Ms Burney said though MRAG poured a lot of time into preparing for the event, its impact went further than the four hours it lasted. One member woke up early to bake scones for the event. “We remind ourselves afterwards… that it’s so much more than the four hours. It’s the connection with one another… it’s the connection between the community groups that I think in times of need, that previous connection and knowing one another and what we’re capable of will be really powerful,” she said. One anecdote Ms Burney recalled was when a woman from Melbourne came and thanked MRAG for “the best open day ever”.
The Millgrove Open Day transformed the township into an exciting space full of fun. (Supplied)
The Upper Yarra SES responded to the community fun day callout. (Supplied)
AusNet taught people about power outages in the summer. (Supplied)
The ADRA food van supplied hot drinks and chips for hungry locals. (Supplied)
The Wesburn-Millgrove CFA made fire safety fun with their demonstrations. (Supplied)
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Toyn on stilts with the SES. (Supplied)
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Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 | MAIL 15
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Studio doors open By Gabriella Vukman After four decades behind the camera, photographer John Norris is finding fresh inspiration in the forests of the Yarra Ranges, where his latest project explores the relationship between people and the natural environment. Mr Norris is opening his Healesville studio to the public as part of this year’s Open Studios program, inviting visitors to discover the stories and techniques behind his photography. Originally from the United Kingdom, Mr Norris spent 30 years living in Chamonix, France, where he built his career photographing outdoor adventure sports, mountaineering, skiing and travel before moving to Australia with his wife two years ago. “When I was a kid I loved drawing but I find photography is the most successful way to express myself,” he said. “I like the fact that it takes me outside.” Mr Norris said he is keen to see how many people show up at this year’s event. “Open studios is fantastic and we had loads of people come last year.” “They’ve done a really good job promoting it, so I am optimistic that a lot of people will also come this year, he said.“ Since arriving in the Yarra Ranges, Mr Norris has gradually shifted his attention towards the region’s forests, developing a body of black-andwhite work titled Gates of the Forest. The project examines the ways people have altered the landscape in pursuit of resources, from timber and minerals to water, land clearing and tourism. “I am naturally drawn to forests, but I became fascinated with the forests here,” he said. “Gates of the Forest is about man’s intrusion into the forest for resources and to clear land.” To create the images, Mr Norris sought out man-made structures within the forest and used an in-camera double-exposure technique, layering photographs of the structures with images of the surrounding trees and landscape. One work features a culvert on Reefton Spur, built by a German stonemason, photographed from inside the structure before being combined with a photograph of the forest nearby. Another image draws on the landscape around Maroondah, exploring the use of forests for water supply. Rather than creating the layered images dig-
Kaz Kershaw is excited to take on the character of Ms Grimm. (Hills Act Theatre Company). Mr Norris is excited to share his works with the community. (Gabriella Vukman: 583738). itally, Mr Norris captures them directly in his camera, with each exposure taken within metres of the other. The technique also connects his contemporary work with a long history of photographic experimentation. “It’s an interesting combination of an old-fashioned idea of double exposures and real state-ofthe-art camera technology.” Having spent the first 15 years of his professional career shooting film, Mr Norris said adapting to new photographic technology had been an ongoing part of his journey. His move to the Yarra Ranges has also provided an opportunity to explore a new environment and establish connections within the local arts community. Mr Norris joined Yarra Valley Arts (YAVA) after arriving in the region, initially taking part in its All Postcards from the Newcomers exhibition before opening his studio to visitors for the first time last year. He said the organisation had helped him connect with other artists and find a sense of belonging in his new home. “People are very friendly and welcoming and being a part of YAVA has given me a focus.”
For Mr Norris, opening his studio is an opportunity to share his work and give visitors a closer look at the process behind it, while also meeting people interested in photography and the surrounding landscape. Although Gates of the Forest has been a largely solitary project, Mr Norris hopes his next body of work will involve more interaction with people. “I like spending time on my own in places whether it’s the mountains or in the forest but I also really like meeting people.” The Open Studios program features 27 artists working across the Yarra Ranges, with visitors able to explore private studios, discover different art forms and purchase original work directly from the artists. Participating artists work in a variety of mediums, including painting, ceramics, photography, mixed media, printmaking and fibre art. The program’s remaining Open Studios weekend is on Saturday, October 24, and Sunday, October 25, from 10am to 5pm. Entry is free. A group exhibition featuring participating artists is also running at The Memo in Healesville until Sunday, November 1. For more information, visit yarravalleyarts. org.au.
Day of the Dead brings the magic of Mexico By Oliver Winn The Rhythms of the World festival will deliver a jam-packed day of Mexican music and culture at the Yarra Valley ECOSS farm. The event will celebrate the Mexican Day of the Dead festival with exciting Latin American bands, traditional dancing and face painting and delicious Mexican cuisine. ECOSS events coordinator Leanne Hall said it was great to be celebrating Mexican and Latino culture at ECOSS. “It’s something that we’ve been wanting to do for quite a long time now. “Having Fernando here with the Tonantzin Chocolate on site, this year seemed like the right time to make it happen and pull it together as part of Rhythms of the World with a Mexican Day of the Dead theme,” she said. Fernando is the founder of Tonantzin, which has sold the taste of Mexico in droves from his kitchen at the ECOSS farm. He said he holds the Day of the Dead celebration close to his heart. “It was always a very special celebration since I was a kid… It feels very refreshing and warm in my heart to continue celebrating, because it’s a big thing there,” he said. The Day of the Dead (translated from Día de los Muertos) is an ancient celebration where people remember loved ones who have died. “It’s a big celebration that goes back for thousands of years. It has changed through the years after the Spanish arrived on the American continent, but it’s a celebration that has been happening for a very long time,” Fernando said. Mexican band Sin Frontera and Latino band La Descarga will provide the tunes to groove to, and Melbourne-based dance group Mexbourne will light up the stage with their moves. Ms Hall said the music and dance will be the perfect way to top an incredible evening. “They perform amazing dancers and tradi16 MAIL | Tuesday, 20 October, 2026
Alesjandro from Sin Frontera will bring the energy to the stage. (Supplied) tional Latin American music, so that will be a great celebratory way to finish off the evening.” Fernando said he was excited about including the traditional altars that are seen as a way of blurring the boundaries between life and death. “Traditionally, the celebration was about making an altar where the people who have made the journey to the next stage of life come back. Basically, it’s making a feast with a lot of the food that they used to enjoy when they were alive, along with candles so they can see where the altar is. “It’s a party of the humans and those who don’t have their physical bodies anymore, all coming together. People traditionally put photos up of the people who have already passed away to invite them so they can be present,” Fernando said. He will also make little chocolate skulls for people to place at altars, helping people understand death as a stage of life. “Ever since I was a kid, I grew up making sugar skulls with your name on them. You made your own skull—the way you’re going to look as you go to the next stage of life—and you put your name on it and placed it on the altar. “It’s a way to understand that that stage of life is important and that we prepare for that initia-
Act fires up again By Gabriella Vukman Cheeky local theatre production ‘Don’t Say You’re Harry’ is set to grace the Memo Hall on Saturday 24, and Sunday 25 October. Facilitated by the nonprofit Hills Act Theatre Company, ‘Don’t Say You’re Harry’ sees two jewel thieves attend the memorial service of the affluent Amelia Devonport in search of her elusive Devonport diamonds. Unbeknownst to the thieves, two detectives also arrive at the service, and it isn’t long before the whole debacle turns into a comical farce. Chum Creek resident Kaz Kershaw will be playing the Devonport family’s risque solicitor Ms Grimm, while the rest of the cast is stacked with Yarra Ranges locals. “Ms Grimm is very used to getting what she wants from the opposite sex, through using her sexuality,” Ms Kershaw said. “I was delighted that the director Phil Stephenson chose someone in their mid-40s for the role, because Ms Grimm has a lot of experience and she is not naive at all.” “She knows what she wants and thinks she knows how to get it by using her feminine wiles on unsuspecting men around her.” ‘Don’t Say You’re Harry’ is the Hills Act’s fourth production since its founding in September 2024. The nonprofit theatre company was founded by Healesville resident Phil Stephenson with the purpose of providing a space for local young people in theatre. Tickets to this season’s production are $25, with all leftover proceeds going towards the company’s next project. Ms Kershaw said the production is an opportunity for locals to come together and have a chuckle. “The world is a tough place at the moment, so it is nice to spend some time in the community having a laugh at something.” she said. “It’s a great opportunity to realise all over again that we have an amazing community in Healesville.” For more information, head to the Yarra Ranges Council website: Yarraranges.vic.gov. au
The fiery rhythms of Melbourne-based Latin band LaDescarga will get the crowd moving. (Supplied) tion—to receive it in a healthy way and for them to come and celebrate,” he said. The festival will also be a part of ECOSS’ Friday market, which Ms Hall said would make the farm “bustling”. “It’s a free event, and since it’s also Children’s Week, everyone can come,” she said. While plenty of fun is to be had at ECOSS Rhythms of the World event, Fernando said it’ll also be an opportunity to take some wisdom from the philosophy underpinning the Day of the Dead. “They say that you only die when your loved ones forget about you. But if you remember them, they’re always alive… [the Day of the Dead] helps people understand who they are and see life from a different perspective.”
Joshua Young and Harrison Garratt during rehearsal. (Hills Act Theatre Company).
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Overhanging plants are positioned to brush against visitors as they pass by. (Supplied)
The garden is full of Australian natives. (Supplied)
Garden is a story of grief inspiring growth By Oliver Winn A range of thoughtfully curated gardens will be on show for the Upper Yarra Valley Garden Club’s annual Open Garden Weekend on 7 and 8 November. Five club members will open the gates to their lush gardenscapes for members of the public to admire and appreciate. Mark Fenech’s garden, with its overarching natives, frogs and ponds, offers a multisensory experience for visitors to enjoy. But it also tells the story of a life-changing loss for Mr Fenech, from which the garden was born. “I designed this garden and planted it fifteen years ago and have been working on it… it’s a dedication to my mother,” he said. “She passed away when they had the bushfires in 2009 – she wasn’t part of the fires. When I was upstairs looking at everything there, everything had burnt around her property. “The basis of my garden is a black mulch,
which represents what I saw, and the growth and the plants that I’ve put in have this bright texture and lightness. So it’s like a feeling of regrowth after fire,” he said. Now 14 years on, the little shrubs Mr Fenech planted have become towering trees. He said it reflected his own healing process after his mother died. Mr Fenech’s garden is located out the back of the old Masonic Lodge in Warburton. Here, he runs a wedding venue Projekt 3488 with his partner, Sandi Lapornik. The garden offers an experience that goes beyond just the visual. Overreaching natives brush people as they pass by, engaging the visitor’s tactile senses; the sound of a thousand frogs creates a croaking cacophony. “There’s plants put in places so when you walk past them, you touch them, they touch you… you’re almost forced to interact with nature. “I put a series of ponds through the garden as well, so all you hear out there during the evening
is frogs, and it’s just insane. People think I’m in the Amazon when I’m talking to them [on the phone] outside,” he said. Interestingly, Mr Fenech doesn’t have a background in gardening. “I’m one of the unique people in this group of gardens where I have no garden background. It’s all based on texture and colour and feeling more so than understanding the names of plants or things,” he said. A designer and illustrator by trade, he approached making the garden as if he were approaching an illustration. “It all came together really nicely. It’s very soft, and especially right now, everything’s just opening up. It looks insane.” But the thought of opening his garden up to the public “scares the living dayights” out of Mr Fenech. “Because last time I did it, there were well over 1000 plus people here, and you know what garden people are like. They want to know what
The garden will be open to the public for the Upper Yarra Valley Garden Club’s Open Gardens weekend. (Supplied) exact name that plant is. “I go looking for all the tags that are 20 years old now, and they’ve all faded. I can’t tell them because that’s not the way I did it,” he said. Inside the Masonic Lodge, the bar will be open for visitors to have a beverage while they explore the garden. Tickets for the Upper Yarra Valley Garden Club’s Open Garden Weekend can be purchased at the entry gates of the garden. Mr Fenech’s garden is located at 3488 Warburton Highway, Warburton.
A forest where everything’s edible: Call for volunteers By Oliver Winn The founder of a unique forest where everything is edible has called on local volunteers to help the patch grow to its full potential on 14 October. Joe Butler’s Food Forest, located at the Yarra Valley ECOSS farm, is a sprawling garden of food that begins at soil level and finishes well above your head. From herbs, vegetables and berries to currants, guavas and fruit, the Food Forest offers a variety of food and holds many benefits for those who interact with it. Ms Butler said the Food Forest has come a long way since its beginnings in 2022, when Covid-19 prevented the permaculture students who designed it from continuing. “So after COVID, ECOSS as an organisation had to decide: do we go ahead with this without the enthusiasm of those students, or do we let it lapse? “We’d already marked out the site and done a little bit of preparation, so we decided to run with it,” she said. Now, the Food Forest is entering its second phase, marking an important step in its establishment. “It’s been a bit off and on, but now we’re coming up to our fourth summer, and we feel like we’re actually achieving something,” Ms Butler said. She said some extra pairs of hands would go a long way in helping maintain the Food Forest. “One of the biggest issues is keeping up the mulch, because it obviously breaks down, and if we don’t keep replenishing it, then the weeds start to take over,” Ms Butler said. Funding from the Mary McKillop Today Highways and Byways Small Grants program helped purchase signage for the plants. But Ms Butler said without more funding, she
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All plants in the Food Forest are edible. (584725)
Ms Butler is looking for volunteers to help her out with maintenance work around the forest. (Oliver Winn: 584725) won’t be able to purchase new plants for the Food Forest. “It’s always an issue, as you know: community-based organisations are always struggling for funding, and this has more or less run out of funding now,” she said. The plan is to open the Food Forest to the public for guided tours to learn about the variety of plants. “We want to open it to the public so people can wander through, learn about different plants, and get an idea about how food grows and in what way plants work together and so on,” Ms Butler said. The Food Forest concept is taken from permaculture – a way of designing gardens, farms and communities to work with nature rather than against it. It encourages people to use resources sustainably, reducing waste and creating healthy,
diverse ecosystems. Ms Butler said the Food Forest also helps demonstrate how growing food doesn’t have to be hard. “These days with food security being potentially a real issue, we feel like it’s great to show people that food is quite easy to grow, that there are so many varieties, and that you can do it yourself. “People get inspired by seeing a plant that they haven’t seen before. It also gives a sense of how much you can grow in a small space if you concentrate on food plants,” she said. Eventually, the Food Forest experience will be offered alongside the Living Herbarium, which is a native plants demonstration just next door to the Food Forest. “We’re hoping that people will wander down and go through both as an experience.” Ms Butler said it’s encouraging to see the Food
Joe Butler regards the Food Forest as her own personal project she’s been working on for the past couple of years. (584725) Forest continue to grow and asked any interested volunteers to lend a hand. “It’s a really rewarding feeling to see it coming together.”
Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 | MAIL 17
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MP an Honorary Rotarian By Gabriella Vukman The Healesville Club of rotary has named Member for Eildon Cindy McLeish an Honorary Rotarian, with the recognition coinciding with the club’s growing campaign to raise awareness of domestic and family violence. In his speech, Rotary Club of Healesville president Terry Hill said the recognition reflected the values at the heart of the organisation. “This honorary membership recognises outstanding service, the building of strong relationships across our region, and the honouring of someone who consistently puts others first,” he said. “We are proud to present the prestigious title of Honorary Rotarian of the Healesville Rotary Club to Cindy McLeish and to welcome her into the circle of those who serve with both passion and purpose.” Mr Hill said Ms McLeish’s work across a range of local issues made her a fitting recipient of the recognition. “Her commitment to small business, agriculture, bushfire relief, tourism, hospitality, mental health, and country Victoria has been exemplary,” he said. He also acknowledged her approach to representing the community, highlighting her background as a secondary school teacher and farmer. “Cindy’s approach to all things is grounded in listening.” “A former secondary school teacher and a farmer, she takes the time to understand local needs and then works with determination to seek practical outcomes,” Mr Hill said. Ms McLeish said the recognition came as a surprise and was a welcome acknowledgement of the role community organisations play in supporting the region. “I was really tickled pink,” she said. “It is so wonderful of them to acknowledge me and what I’ve done.” Ms McLeish said the recognition reflected the service component of public life, regardless of the level of government. “Rotary is such a great community service organisation and they recognise the service component of the role of any politician whether it’s state, federal, council, local.” The meeting also provided an opportunity for Ms McLeish to speak about domestic and family violence, an issue the Healesville club is working to bring further into the community conversation. Ms McLeish said her presentation offered an insight into developments in the family violence space, including emerging issues affecting young people and the growing use of technology to abuse and control others. She said technology-facilitated abuse was evolving rapidly, creating challenges for existing policies and responses. “People aren’t always aware of what’s happen-
Cindy delivered a talk on domestic violence during the meeting. (Rotary Club of Healesville).
Former Healesville Rotary president Sally Piper, president Terry Hill and Cindy McLeish. (Rotary Club of Healesville). ing at primary school and secondary schools.” “We’re a long way behind other places in the world with getting on top of domestic violence.” Ms McLeish said the number of family violence incidents remained concerning despite significant financial investment in responses and prevention. Her comments came amid continued concern about violence against women, including the recent murder of 21-year-old Aboriginal woman Jada, who was killed by her partner in Carlton. Ms McLeish said reports of serious injuries, coercive behaviour and breaches of intervention orders demonstrated the scale of the challenge still facing communities.
“There’s so many things that we’ve still got a long way to go,” she said. According to Ms McLeish, community involvement is essential to making progress, noting that government action alone could not achieve lasting change. “If you want to get change at a community level, it really needs buy-in from the whole community,” she said. “Governments can only do so much and if you’ve got organisations, whether it’s sporting clubs or Rotary, getting on board to help promote the message, that’s a great thing and I congratulate them for doing so.” The discussion comes as the Rotary Club of
Healesville builds support for a campaign encouraging local organisations to take a more active role in preventing domestic violence. Mr Hill said the club is gathering logos from community organisations for a banner intended to help Healesville stay safe, healthy and connected. “The banner will represent 50 community groups who look after the town and keep the town safe and healthy and happy,” he said. “It’s a celebration of our togetherness as a community and particularly our caring for each other and how we look after each other.” The campaign is designed to demonstrate that preventing family violence is not solely the responsibility of government or specialist services, but requires a broader community response. Local sporting clubs have already expressed support, with the Healesville football and netball clubs agreeing to display campaign banners around their grounds during home matches. Mr Hill said the club is also planning to engage sporting organisations in discussions about how they could promote the message within their own communities. Former AFL player and domestic violence campaigner Phil Cleary is expected to speak with representatives from sporting groups on November 23, with further engagement planned around the start of the next sporting season. The club is also arranging for its members to wear purple shirts featuring the domestic violence campaign message, helping raise awareness at community events and other activities. The honorary membership also strengthens the club’s connection with local representatives and community organisations as it continues its broader service work. Ms McLeish joins Aaron Violi as the second local member to receive honorary membership of the Healesville Club of Rotary. As the campaign develops, Rotary hopes the involvement of sporting clubs and other local organisations will help make conversations about domestic violence more visible and encourage communities to play an active role in prevention.
Millgrove’s Kevin Gibson steps forward for Labor in Eildon By Callum Ludwig Millgrove man Kevin Gibson is Labor’s candidate for the Eildon district at this year’s state election. He is a CFA volunteer and currently drives buses for Martyrs, having previously worked as a engineering executive. Mr Gibson said Millgrove is a wonderful community. “I have really connected with the people and have become involved in many of the community activities,” he said. “I am involved in my local community through Wesburn-Millgrove CFA, Warburton Advancement League and support of Millgrove Residents Action group.” After graduating with a degree in mechanical engineering from RMIT University, Mr Gibson worked mostly in senior executive in manufacturing companies, including being the national sales and engineering manager at Knorr-Bremse Australia a leading supplier of commercial vehicle brake and safety systems between 2011 and 2021. Mr Gibson said he’s running in Eildon for Labor because he understands that there are very significant issues that this election will test. “I don’t want our state government to drastically cut services that are desperately needed in 18 MAIL | Tuesday, 20 October, 2026
this time of heightened cost of living pressures,” he said. “I don’t want a conservative government to undo all of the good work done to transition our state to renewables, I don’t want coal fired power stations to continue operating beyond their use by date and I definitely do not want to see Nuclear power stations built in or near the electorate as advocated by One Nation. “I do not want to see the Treaty negotiated by the Victorian government ripped up by the LNP.” Mr Gibson has also volunteered at the Ringwood Winter Shelter, the Yarra Valley Railway and from January 2024 to July 2025 was the general manager of Pallotti College before it transitioned to new ownership. Mr Gibson said he wants to deliver for his local community. “After years of LNP representation, the Eildon electorate has fallen behind because we have not had effective representation either federally, or at the state level,” he said. “If I’m elected I will work hard to have services, transport and important local infrastructure built and upgraded. “What is desperately needed in this very large electorate are services, transport, internet and Wi-Fi connectivity, health services, sporting infrastructure, roads and more, we do not need
Kevin Gibson is Labor’s candidate in Eildon. (Supplied) to have our services cut.” Mr Gibson’s decision to make the move to Millgrove also came from connecting with the community during hardship. In 2021, he was diagnosed with bowel cancer requiring major surgery, chemotherapy and a change in lifestyle. After assisting friends with a similar condition, Mr Gibson made the plunge and purchased a
property in the town in 2022. Mr Gibson said he encouraged Eildon voters to take the time to learn what each candidate stands for before they vote. “Attend a forum or community event and ask questions about the issues,” he said. “Importantly, seek factual information and make your mind up on the facts.”
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Opening up a new chapter By Deborah Goon A new bookmark featuring 12 inspiring reads is helping Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC) and its partners celebrate the strengths, contributions and diverse experiences of older people. To mark Ageism Awareness Day on 9 October, ECLC’s Eastern Elder Abuse Prevention Network (EEAN) joined local councils and library partners across Melbourne’s East to launch the bookmark, encouraging people to “Look at people for who they are, not their age.” The collection uses the power of storytelling to spark conversations, challenge assumptions and strengthen respect and connection across generations. Sarah Hopkins, chief experience officer at Your Library, said libraries play an important role in ensuring people can see themselves reflected in stories, because stories help shape the way we see the world. “Books that challenge outdated stereotypes of older people remind us that ageing is not something to be feared.” ECLC’s elder abuse prevention lead, Jill Exon,
said ageism can limit how older people are seen, but communities have the power to change that. “Older people bring wisdom, experience, creativity and connection to our communities. When we recognise and value those contributions, we create places where everyone can participate, contribute and thrive at every age.” Ageism can contribute to exclusion, discrimination and mistreatment of older people. Challenging these attitudes helps build communities where people feel respected, connected and safe, and supports broader efforts to prevent elder abuse. “Respect is one of the strongest protections we can offer older people,” added Jill. “By listening to older voices, celebrating their contributions and challenging stereotypes, we help create communities where people are seen for who they are and can live with dignity, independence and pride.” Intergenerational specialist Knox City Council, Breeana Bloomfield confirmed that the bookmarks have been shared with Community and
What’s coming up The 1812 Theatre Closer Presented in association with AVIC Theatres, this Olivier Awards-winning modern classic promises a provocative, darkly funny and brutally honest night of theatre exploring love, desire and the complicated games people play with each other’s hearts. What begins as a series of chance encounters soon becomes something far more complicated. With razor-sharp dialogue, wicked humour and plenty of emotional twists, Closer is a fascinating exploration of modern relationships where everyone demands the truth but nobody is quite prepared for the consequences. Season: 28 October - 7 November. Karralyka The Bog Band Swing Show This high-energy production brings to life the music of some of the greatest artists of all time, including Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble, Shirley Bassey, Harry Conick Jnr, Natalie Cole, Dean Martin, Tom Jones, Frankie Vali, Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley. Featuring powerful vocals, dazzling musicianship and timeless classics, audiences will be transported through an afternoon of unforgettable entertainment from smooth swing standards and jazz favourites to the iconic songs that have filled concert halls and captive audiences for generations. Season: Sunday 7 February 2027 at 1pm. The Round Unplugged – Cosentino Enter a world where nothing is as it seems. In this bold new production, Australia’s greatest magician, Cosentino strips back the glitz and grandeur to reveal the raw essence of his craft. No smoke, no
Kemp’s curtain call mirrors, no towering sets. Just Cosentino, uncovered and utterly spellbinding. Now celebrated as a global superstar, Cosentino returns to his roots, reconnecting with audiences in the most intimate way possible. Expect astonishing close-up magic, mind-bending mentalism, and sleight-of-hand miracles you won’t believe until you see them. Season: Thursday, 22 October. Blackburn Callisthenics: 64th Annual Show BCC members are thrilled to display their talent, teamwork and creativity in a spectacular showcase. From their Tiniest performers at three years of age to the ladies in Masters, the year has been full of personal development, team goals, dedication and friendship. 12pm Show: Tots and Tiny Tots. Div 1 Sub Juniors and Juniors. Premier Titles, Sub Juniors, Juniors and Under 2s Team 2 and 3 5pm Show: Premier Titled, Sub Juniors, Juniors and Inter Team 1. Seniors’ Red Masters. Sunday 25 October, 12pm and 5pm.
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Street Fighter (1994 and 2026) M 2.75/5, 4/5
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ECLC’s Eastern Elder Abuse Prevention Network (EEAN) celebrated Ageism Awareness day with the launch of their new bookmark. (Supplied)
Celebrate AusArt Day
Second take is best Today we’re looking at both the new Street Fighter film and the original Street Fighter film from 1994. After a succinct, engrossing opening, Street Fighter 1994 has terrible pacing, with the main characters being captured and escaping over and over again. Most of 1994’s fight scenes are poorly-executed (ironic for a film based on a fighting game); you could argue Hollywood only got the hang of Eastern-style choreography with The Matrix in 1999. Jean Claude Van Damme is goofy as Guile, an American colonel with a thick Austrian accent, but Raul Julia (in his final film role) is a megalomaniacal delight as the villain M. Bison. Despite the pacing and fighting issues, Street Fighter 1994 is a decently entertaining movie with fun (if underwritten) characters, some dynamic editing and plenty of funny scenes. The new Street Fighter film is better in almost every way. The fight scenes are well-choreographed and thrilling, the new film captures the vibrant, stylised tone of the games to a T and the pacing is more focused (while still feeling rushed at times). Callina Liang is fierce and al-
Neighbourhood Houses, and with community members at events, in particular the movie event last week as part of the Seniors Festival and Ageism Awareness Day. “The response has been really positive. People have been genuinely intrigued by the bookmarks … while also being keen to learn more about the campaign and the conversations behind it,” said Breeana. “From a Council perspective, being part of this campaign has been such a valuable collaboration and a wonderful way to challenge ageism in the community. Using stories and titles for all ages creates an accessible way to encourage people to look beyond age and see people for who they are,” added Breeana. Community members can pick up a bookmark at their local library, including Your Library, Whitehorse Manningham Libraries and Boroondara Library Service, and explore the recommended book collection. Find out more: Visit ECLC’s Ageism Awareness Day webpage: eclc.org.au/eean/aad.
On Thursday 22 October, AusArt Day is a nationwide fundraising initiative across all arts disciplines. It is hosted by Creative Australia, our nation’s principal arts investment and advisory body. According to the official website, AusArt Day is “designed to mobilise artists and arts organisations to raise funds for their work and creative ambitions on a single, powerful day”. It is a call to action, aiming to “amplify the visibility of arts philanthropy and inspire greater generosity across the country”. More than a fundraiser, the event is a public movement that celebrates the vital role of the arts in our life. As Creative Australia CEO Adrian Collette explains: “Australians have a deep connection to arts and creativity. It’s in the music we listen to, the books we read, the stories we watch, the performances we experience and the creativity that shapes our communities.” “Our research shows that 97 per cent of Australians engage with the arts, often without necessarily thinking of it as ‘the arts’. AusArt Day is an opportunity to recognise the artists and organisations behind those experiences and directly support the work we value.” The first AusArt Day took place in October 2025, with 323 Australian artists and arts organisations calling on their fellow citizens to help Make Art Happen. That event attracted 4768 individual donors, who contributed a total of $2.4 million to support a great variety of arts activities, programs and projects. This year, whether it is individual musicians, dancers, singers, writers, translators, actors, filmmakers, designers, photographers and painters, or arts collectives planning workshops, exhibitions, concerts, performances, festivals, community events and publishing
PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN tasks – they deserve recognition and help to turn their creative vision into something real. So, if/when you are able and willing, how can you support AusArt Day? The first step is to locate the Participant Gallery. (shorturl.at/Jp57M). You will find a great variety of projects proposed by individual artists, arts groups or collectives, and arts organisations. Next, search your state/territory and favourite art form, and click on the projects to view their briefs. Each will link you to a campaign page where you can discover more details about the project, including but not limited to what they are raising funds for and how they will report impact to supporters. Keep in mind that you can make a pledge during the “quiet phase”, which covers the days leading up to (and beyond!) the public campaign on AusArt Day. Some of the campaigns will arrange their own online donation methods (with a few even offering perks/rewards), but you can also contact your preferred project organisers to discuss offline giving. Please, let’s help make AusArt Day a success. We can all do our small bit to MAKE ART HAPPEN.
CARTOON
luring as Chun-Li, and estranged brothers Ken (Noah Centineo) and Ryu (Andrew Koji) undergo deeply engaging arcs: Ken wants to claim his long-overdue glory, and Ryu is determined not to give into the darkness within him. It’s just a shame that David Dastmalchian is somewhat bland as Bison – especially compared to Julia – and the broader conflict of Bison seeking to steal Ryu’s power isn’t very interesting. Street Fighter 1994 is disposable campy fun, but Street Fighter 2026 is a seriously strong film driven by awesome action and compelling characters, and it’s yet another counter to the tired old claim that there are hardly any good movies based on video games. - Seth Lukas Hynes
Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 | MAIL 19
PUZZLES To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
easy
3 1 7
8
9 5 1 3 7 4 5 1 2 9 7 6 4 1 6 8 9 2 3 2 8 9 7 2 9 6 2 8 medium
2 6 7 9 2 7 8 4
QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS
27 28 29 30
3 9
7 5 1 5 8 2 5 3 8 3 7 8 2 4 2 9 4 5
23
2
7
9 2
8 6
5 1 4
9 9 6 7
23
20
5
2 6
14
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26
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6 21
2
23 8
12
12
16
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6
24
6
23
2
12
12
23
24
18
16
16
N
24
16 9
15
23
9
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2
26 4
26
11
4
21 19
12
6
4
N
6
21
No. 344
19
16
16
hard
7 8 9 14 16 17 19 22 23
DECODER 10
24
N
15
17
19
26
17
4
1
24
6
19
6
10
23
6
1
2
3
4
5
6
14
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N
7
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11
N
11
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4 4 19
24
13
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16 20
24
23
11 1
3
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24
11
15
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T O Z D X S J V U H R C Y 2
3
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Q N
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'.
D
Today’s Aim: 13 words: Good 19 words: Very good 26 words: Excellent
U
L
L
O
C I
E
6
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L
10
8
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17 18
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WORDFIT 3 LETTERS ALE AMP APE ARK ASK DEW ERA EWE GYM ICE IMP LIE MUG NAP ODD POT PRO PRY RYE SEA SPA TEE TON VIA 4 LETTERS DABS ETCH MEWS NEST PEEL SECT SILT SLED SPAS TAPS TENS WIRE WOKS YAPS
cell, cello, CELLULOID, clod, cloud, clue, clued, code, coil, coiled, cold, cole, collide, collie, collude, could, cull, culled, dice, docile, iced, lice, loci, lucid, ludic, oleic
2 3 1 4 7 6 8 5 9 5 4 7 3 8 9 1 6 2 6 8 9 5 2 1 3 7 4 8 5 3 7 1 2 4 9 6 9 7 2 6 3 4 5 1 8 1 6 4 8 9 5 7 2 3 3 2 8 9 5 7 6 4 1 4 1 5 2 6 8 9 3 7 7 9 6 1 4 3 2 8 5
5 1 3 7 2 6 4 8 9 4 7 9 8 1 5 3 6 2 2 6 8 3 9 4 7 5 1 7 8 6 2 3 9 1 4 5 3 4 1 5 6 8 9 2 7 9 2 5 1 4 7 6 3 8 6 3 7 9 8 2 5 1 4 8 5 4 6 7 1 2 9 3 1 9 2 4 5 3 8 7 6
6 2 1 8 3 9 5 7 4 3 4 9 7 2 5 8 1 6 7 8 5 1 4 6 3 2 9 2 3 8 4 5 1 9 6 7 9 7 4 3 6 8 2 5 1 5 1 6 9 7 2 4 3 8 4 6 7 5 9 3 1 8 2 8 5 2 6 1 4 7 9 3 1 9 3 2 8 7 6 4 5 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com
23
1
hard
11
W B I F K A P M G E L Q N
medium
1
23 16
24
14
easy
11
25
Q
6 19
9
19
6
2
26
26
22
N
2
6 5 1 6 2 4 5 3 1 2 1 9 2 4
2
9
Barely (4) Liveliness (9) Young bird (5) Relating to civilisation (8) Manoeuvre in a very small space, turn – – – (coll) (2,1,4) Posit (5) Hoodlums (9) Longevity (coll) (4) Emotional release (9) Reparations (9) Revolt (8) Decoration or reward (7) Starchy vegetable (5) Flat unleavened bread of India (4) Japanese delicacy (5) Consumes (4)
1 2 3 4 6
26
12
1
DOWN
Possessiveness (8) Kind of dark tea (6) Trade (5) Burning to ashes (9) Cloak (6) Shakes (7) Dispassionate (8) Composed (6) Arctic plain (6) Extremely hungry (8) Skilled worker (7) Structure; arrangement (6) Lower layers (9) Offspring (5) Mask (6) Diverges (8)
1 5 10 11 12 13 14 15 18 20 21 24
No. 312
No. 312
D I S C O
5 LETTERS ADORE AGREE APPAL APPLE APRIL ARGUE ARISE BRAKE DISCO DOERS EATEN ELITE ERROR ESSAY GNAWS HEART IRATE KINDA LARDS LARGE LEAVE
LIVEN MAIMS MEANS OPERA ORBIT OVERS PASSE PEACE PECAN POLKA POSED RAISE ROSES SAILS SALES SASSY SEEDS SENDS SHAPE SLEET SOLAR SOOKY
STAMP STEER SUCKS TOWEL TRAWL TREAT WIDER
7 LETTERS BATSMAN COCONUT PARSLEY PRESIDE REOPENS TUESDAY
6 LETTERS ARDENT DIGEST HERNIA SALARY
8 LETTERS EDUCATES KEYNOTED KEYWORDS READINGS
S A L E S P E C A N H E A R T A D O R E E R R O R T R AW L A G R E E S U C K S R A I S E M U G D I S C O T O N S E A P E E L M E A N S D I G E S T A M P T U E S D A Y O P E R A E T C H M E W S T A P S L I E R E A D I N G S B A T S M A N P R E S I D E I C E S P A S K E Y N O T E D W I R E D O E R S T E N S P A R S L E Y A S K S A L A R Y T OW E L Y A P S A P E D E W P O S E D P O T O V E R S A P P L E I R A T E L I V E N K I N D A B R A K E S A S S Y S O L A R S L E E T
No. 312
J E A L O U S Y O O L O N G U N W O L N P A C R E M A T I O N S K I L L M E I G D N G T M A N T L E S H I V E R S T T M T S E D A T E C L I N I C A L O L N T R A R A V E N O U S T U N D R A H O U N A R T I S A N S Y S T E M R U E A E U M U S E E D S S U B S T R A T A E T N T H N E I S C R E E N D E V I A T E S
SUDOKU
23-10-26
Robbie, Gavan and Janet
www.heritagefunerals.com.au • Wantirna, Lilydale, Woori Yallock • 9800 3000 20 MAIL | Tuesday, 20 October, 2026
12711905-KG37-24
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ARCHITECTURAL EXCELLENCE, AWARD-WINNING GARDENS AND 4.71 HECTARES mailcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 21
PROPERTY OF THE WEEK
ARCHITECTURAL EXCELLENCE, AWARD-WINNING GARDENS AND 4.71 HECTARES SET across approximately 4.71 hectares of beautifully landscaped grounds and native forest, this extraordinary residence is a remarkable showcase of architectural design, exceptional craftsmanship and refined Hills living. Privately elevated within an enchanting natural setting, the winding driveway meanders through established gardens and mature plantings before revealing this truly distinctive home. Nestled amongst colour filled gardens, the striking glass and metal façade creates an unforgettable first impression, while the residence itself has been lovingly renovated and enhanced over time, including the addition of a bold architectural extension, thoughtfully designed to embrace and complement its spectacular natural surrounds. A generous entry foyer introduces the home, leading into the spectacular openplan kitchen, dining and living zone at its heart. Designed with both entertaining and everyday living in mind, the kitchen features a substantial marble island, integrated refrigerator, Liebherr drinks fridge and premium appliances and fixtures, complemented by a beautiful recycled Jarrah dining table. The adjoining living area is equally impressive, with soaring ceilings, a cosy wood fire and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the room with natural light while framing the picturesque outlook. Downstairs, an impressive secondary living and entertaining zone provides exceptional flexibility, incorporating a cellar and spacious sitting or games room with stacker doors opening directly to the gardens. A separate sunken lounge provides a more intimate retreat, with high ceilings, skylights and a wood heater. If this wasn’t already enough, the addition of the home library/ study creates a peaceful space for reading, working or retreating. Accommodation is equally considered, with the luxurious master suite providing a private sanctuary of generous proportions. The beautifully appointed ensuite features dual vanities, floor-to-ceiling travertine, a large shower and extensive storage, while the substantial walk-in robe includes dedicated storage for shoes, accessories and bags. A private guest retreat with its own ensuite and courtyard provides excellent separation for visitors, while two further bedrooms are serviced by a beautifully renovated main bathroom. Year-round comfort is assured with slab hydronic floor heating in the central living space, reverse-cycle heating and cooling and additional wood heaters. Outside, the award-winning landscaped gardens are nothing short of spectacular. At the centre is a sleek black infinity-edge Enki-designed pool, solar heated and selfcleaning, framed by French-pattern bluestone paving and an extraordinary curved Kimberley sandstone garden wall. Originally featured in Jamie Durie’s 2008 Chelsea Flower Show gold medal-winning garden, this remarkable feature brings an additional layer of artistry and history to the grounds. Designed for unforgettable entertaining, the alfresco zone includes a fully equipped outdoor kitchen with four bar fridges, BBQ, pizza oven and extensive storage, complemented by built-in concrete dining and lounge areas overlooking the pool and gardens. Beyond the formal gardens, the property extends into two large paddocks. A substantial machinery shed, extension high-rise carports and double garage provides excellent utility and storage for all the toys and tools. Mature trees, established garden beds and pockets of native forest create a diverse and beautifully considered landscape, with the hidden Gabriella Possum mural adding an unexpected artistic touch amongst the bush. A truly remarkable private Hills sanctuary, this exceptional property brings
togetherarchitectural integrity, extraordinary landscaping, sophisticated living and an unparalleled connection with nature across an expansive and beautifully curated holding.
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 88 Kirkpatricks Road, MACCLESFIELD Description: 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 6 garage Price: $2,900,00 - $3,100,000 Contact: Justin Barrot 0438 683 781 and Brittany Barry 0412 861 094, BARRY PLANT EMERALD – 5968 4522
22 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 20 October, 2026
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PROPERTY NEWS
THE ROSELEIGH WAY: WHERE QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP MEETS INNOVATIVE DESIGN IF you’re looking for a custom builder with quality craftsmanship and innovative design at its core, look no further than Roseleigh Homes. With a commitment to doing things differently, Roseleigh Homes understands that no two homeowners or blocks of land are the same. That’s why every home is thoughtfully designed and built around the way you live, and your block of land. Having been directly involved in the building process over many years, our director’s expertise forms the foundation of what we call The Roseleigh Way. Our hands-on experience provides a genuine understanding of what it
takes to deliver homes of exceptional quality. From the very first meeting with us, every stage is approached with care and upfront communication. Our dedication to building homes of lasting value is reflected in our many award-winning homes. Our entire team recognises that building a new home is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your lifetime. That’s why every home we build is given the same care, pride and attention to detail the team would expect for their own. For those seeking a builder who doesn’t see you as just another number, discover the Roseleigh Way today. ●
The Roseleigh Way: Where quality craftsmanship meets innovative design.
12909268-KA43-26
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Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 23
PROPERTY NEWS
THE REAL COST OF LIVING AT HAMLET LILYDALE The bills you won’t miss RATES every quarter. Growing gas bills every winter. The gym membership, the gardener, the daily coffee. Every one of them keeps going up, and for a couple they add up to more than $12,000 a year. At Hamlet Lilydale, most of them disappear. A home that works hard Hamlet homes feature double glazed windows, high-performance floor, ceiling and wall insulation, weather seals on every door and window, and ducted heating and cooling. Achieving an equivalent of a 7 star NatHERS Rating, where heat stays in through winter and out through summer. Homes are also all-electric. No gas connection, no gas bill, no daily supply charge. The typical existing Victorian home rates just 2.2 stars for energy efficiency, while a 7-star home needs around 75-80% less energy to heat and cool. The Victorian Government estimates an all-electric home saves about $1,900 a year compared with one on gas. That’s roughly $37 a week, before you count the comfort. No stamp duty At Hamlet you own your home and lease the land, so there’s no stamp duty to pay. On a $950,000 home, you keep about $52,070 - enough to cover a couple’s weekly fee for several years or fund the trip you’ve been postponing. Council and water rates, included For a home with a Capital Improved Value of $950,000 in the Yarra Ranges Shire, the annual bill comes to around $3,219. But at Hamlet, council rates and the fixed water and sewer charges are included in your Weekly Hamlet Fee. No rates notices, no waste charge, no emergency services levy. You pay only for the water you use, and your electricity is billed directly by your retailer. Your gym and your local Olinda Lodge has a Pilates studio, cardio room, sauna and spa. Australians spend an average of $77 a month on gym memberships. For a couple, that’s about $1,850 a year. Then there’s the coffee. A flat white now costs around $6, and one each, five mornings a week, adds up to more than $3,000 a year. At Olinda Lodge, the kitchen bar and lounge belong to the homeowners, with neighbours instead of strangers. A garden you never have to tend Every front garden is designed by Urban Edge Landscape Architects and maintained by Hamlet. Even a modest monthly gardener
costs around $1,200 a year. At Hamlet, you can lock up and leave for a month and come home to a garden that looks just as good. New, and built to last An older home always has something waiting to be fixed: a leaking roof, a hot water system on its last legs, a bathroom that needs regrouting. At Hamlet, everything is brand new, built to last and covered by building warranty. The years (and funds) you’d usually spend fixing things are yours to spend however you like. Safer behind the gate The gates lock to everyone but homeowners from dusk to dawn. That brings peace of mind,
24 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 20 October, 2026
and it can lower your insurance too. Home and contents cover in Victoria averages $2,425 a year, so even a 10% saving is about $240. Adding it up For a couple, the basic costs Hamlet removes or reduces come to around $240 a week, and that doesn’t include your stamp duty savings or the costs for maintenance and repairs to older properties. A couple’s weekly fee at Hamlet is $281, and these savings cover around 85% of it. The fee also gives you Olinda Lodge, gardens and walking paths across grounds the size of the MCG, and a community you’ll love coming home to. Plus, the $52,070 in stamp duty
stays with you. So yes, there’s a weekly fee. But look at what it replaces, and what it adds, and it starts to look less like a cost and more like what it really is: a simpler, lighter way to live. For more information on Hamlet Lilydale, or to book a consultation, visit hamletliving.com. au. Or call Marion (sales lead) on 0482 672 325. Figures are indicative estimates for a couple, based on published averages current in October 2026, and will vary by household. Savings are not guaranteed. Weekly Fees are reviewed as set out in the Site Agreement. General information only, not financial advice. ●
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Spend on the life you love, not the bills. Final homes available before December price
A boutique over 50s community in Lilydale.
rise at $845,000.
Book your personal consultation today with Marion. Visit hamletliving.com.au or call 0482 672 325.
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Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 25
HOME FOCUS
STUNNING FAMILY LIVING ON A FANTASTIC 1,565M2 APPROX. BLOCK POSITIONED in one of Upwey’s premium locations, this beautifully presented four bedroom home offers an impressive combination of space, natural light and modern comfort. Set on a fantastic, usable 1,565m² approx. allotment, the property enjoys wonderful sunlight, a peaceful setting and plenty of room for the whole family to enjoy. Step inside to discover a spacious open plan kitchen, living and dining area, highlighted by a stunning oversized window that perfectly frames the beautiful rear yard and allows natural light to pour into the home. The modern kitchen offers excellent bench space, quality appliances and plenty of storage, while the generous living and dining area creates a warm and inviting space for everyday living and entertaining. The home features four well proportioned bedrooms, a stylishly updated family bathroom and the year round comfort of split system heating and cooling. A huge bonus is the fantastic separate studio, fully fitted out and offering the ultimate chill out space, teenage retreat, home office or creative studio. Adding to the appeal is the excellent garage space, sealed driveway and plenty of room for additional parking. Outside, the expansive and highly usable backyard provides endless opportunities for children, pets, gardening or simply relaxing and enjoying the sunshine. With so much space on offer, this is a property that delivers the perfect balance of indoor comfort and outdoor freedom. All of this is situated in a brilliant Upwey location, just a short distance from local shops, cafes, schools and public transport. Offering an exceptional combination of lifestyle, space and convenience, this is a fantastic opportunity to secure a quality family home in one of Upwey’s most desirable locations. ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 29 Kooringal Road, UPWEY Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 garage Price: $860,,000 - $920,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Brad Conder 0422 639 115 and Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 9754 6888
26 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 20 October, 2026
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Real Estate you can trust! We’re here to help.
20Belgrave-Gembrookrd,Belgrave
8DalkeithCrescent,Belgrave
29Kooringalroad,Upwey
3 Bed | 1 Bath | 1 Car | 1655m2
3 Bed | 2 Bath | 2 Car | 1239m2
4 Bed | 1 Bath | 2 Car | 1565m2
For Sale $690,000 - $740,000
For Sale $770,000 - $820,000
For Sale $860,000 - $920,000
Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442
Jonathan Arad 0490 393 328
Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442
Jonathan Arad 0490 393 328
Brad Conder 0422 639 115
Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554
31acaciaavenue,Upwey
39Grantullaroad,Kallista
4 Bed | 2 Bath | 3 Car | 975m2
3 Bed | 2 Bath | 3 Car | 5293m2
4 Bed | 2 Bath | 4 Car | 1826m2
For Sale $890,000 - $979,000
For Sale $1,050,000 - $1,150,000
For Sale $1,150,000 - $1,240,000
Brad Conder 0422 639 115
Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554
Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442
Jonathan Arad 0490 393 328
10Banoolroad,Selby
Brad Conder 0422 639 115
Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554
03 9754 6888 office@chandlerandco.com.au 1689 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave Vic 3160 mailcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 27
HOME FOCUS
A PRESTIGIOUS ADDRESS WITH TIMELESS CHARM PRIVATELY positioned in The Crescent, one of the Dandenong Ranges’ most sought-after addresses, this stunning character home combines timeless elegance with beautifully considered family living. Set on a generous 1,137 sq m allotment within the prestigious Golden Mile, the property enjoys an enviable setting on an open, sun-drenched and exceptionally private block, surrounded by manicured gardens and picturesque mountain views. The flexible floorplan offers outstanding accommodation for families, guests or those seeking additional space to work from home. Four bedrooms include a beautiful master suite opening directly onto the covered veranda, overlooking the rear garden and swimming pool. Downstairs, a gorgeous guest suite with full ensuite and walk-in robe enjoys direct access to the pool and garden, creating a private retreat for extended family or visiting guests. At the heart of the home, the stunning kitchen and adjoining family room capture beautiful garden vistas and are bathed in natural light, creating an inviting space for everyday living and relaxed entertaining. High ceilings enhance the sense of space, while Caesarstone benchtops, a Falcon double oven, ceramic butler’s sink and walk-in pantry combine quality finishes with excellent storage and practicality. For more formal occasions, the elegant lounge and dining area provide a welcoming setting to relax beside the fire during the cooler months. In summer, double doors open onto the verandas, creating a seamless connection between indoors and out. Whether entertaining friends, enjoying alfresco dining or simply taking in the picturesque mountain outlook, this is a home designed to be enjoyed in every season.
Outside, beautifully landscaped gardens create a peaceful and private sanctuary, complemented by the inviting swimming pool and generous outdoor spaces. The combination of sunshine, privacy and usable grounds is a rare offering in such a tightly held location, providing an idyllic setting for families to relax, entertain and embrace the enviable Dandenong Ranges lifestyle. Just a leisurely stroll from the charming village of Sassafras, with its boutique shops, renowned cafes, restaurants and local amenities, this exceptional residence delivers a wonderful balance of character, tranquillity and convenience. An outstanding opportunity to secure a distinguished family home in one of the Dandenong Ranges’ most coveted locations. ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 13 The Crescent, SASSAFRAS Description: 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 1 garage Price: $1,530,000 - $1,680,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Jan Brewster 0409 558 805, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL REAL ESTATE, 9754 6111
28 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 20 October, 2026
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Ranges NEAR-NEW MASTERPIECE
We put you first
EXTRAORDINARY VIEWS
EMERAlD 3 BOWER COuRT
$1,395,000-$1,495,000
KAllISTA 28 KALLISTA-EMERALD ROAD
PEACEfUl HIllS SETTING
4A 2B 6C 1E
bEAUTIfUl 1920’s HOME
A beautifully finished, 3-year-old modern residence paired with a genuinely usable 3,321sqm (approx.) block in one of the Hills’ most peaceful settings in a quiet no-through road, this exceptional property delivers space, privacy and lifestyle. Featuring polished concrete floors, soaring high ceilings, an abundance of natural light, three separate living areas, a study, designer kitchen with an oversized Caesarstone bench & butler’s pantry, and an expansive undercover deck. Designed for families who love to live and entertain.
Caiti Ellis 0493 136 937
Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522
ALL OFFERS CONSIDERED
$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.
9754 6111
rangesfn.com.au mailcommunity.com.au
2A 1B 1C
This captivating Hills residence combines heritage character with contemporary comfort, thoughtful design and an extraordinary connection to its surrounds. The expansive views across the Dandenong Ranges are the defining feature & the ever-changing panorama becomes part of everyday life. North-East facing and light filled, the home showcases clever use of space, bespoke fittings, gas log fireplace, contemporary kitchen with stone benchtops, studio & terraced gardens filled with mature ferns, citrus and fig trees.
Janet Hawkins 0409 117 432
Caiti Ellis 0493 136 937
TIMELESS CHARM
SElby 5 JOHNS ROAD
Grant Skipsey 0418 528 102
$730,000 - $790,000
SASSAfRAS 13 THE CRESCENT A PRESTIGIOUS ADDRESS
$1,530,000-$1,680,000 4A 3B 1C
Privately positioned in one of the Dandenong Ranges’ most sought-after addresses, this stunning character home combines timeless elegance with beautifully considered family living. Set on a generous 1,137sqm allotment the property enjoys an enviable setting on an open, sun-drenched private block, with a pool and surrounded by manicured gardens and picturesque mountain views. The flexible floorplan offers outstanding accommodation for family, guests or those seeking additional space to work from home.
Jan brewster 0409 558 805
‘We Put You First’
1660 Burwood Highway, Belgrave Shop 2/24 McBride St, Cockatoo Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 29
HOME FOCUS
SMALL TOWN COUNTRY LIVING SET in colourful and picturesque surrounds with a small country town atmosphere and rural charm this property is sure to please. The home is warm and inviting offering 3 bedrooms with a large open plan kitchen and meals/dining area and a spacious lounge/ living area with ample space for everyone. Head outdoors and you’re spoilt for choice, sit back relax and enjoy the mountain views from the covered front verandah, the kids and pets will love the back yard with heaps of space to enjoy and explore. Set on just over 900sqm with a huge variety of fruit trees and an array of established trees and colourful flowering shrubs. Take a short stroll to Powelltown’s one stop general store or explore the stunning nature walks through the amazing Yarra State forest, a great property in a fantastic location, relaxed country living at it’s best. ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 11 Yarra Street, POWELLTOWN Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 garage Price: $495,000-$540,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: David Carroll 0419 539 320, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION, 5967 1277
30 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 20 October, 2026
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P 5966 2530
P 5967 1277
3407 Warburton Highway, Warburton
43 Shirley Crescent, Woori Yallock
$730,000-$780,000
2457 Warburton Highway, Yarra Junction
52 Donna Buang Road, Warburton
$730,000 - $780,000
Modern Comfort with Space and Style
A Dream Garden with Timeless Character and Homely Charm
This beautiful home will surprise and excite you the minute you walk through the front door. Offering 3 bedrooms, and a luxurious and classy main bathroom. The expansive living areas offer a separate living room, meals/dining area and a main lounge room. The kitchen is very impressive from the quality appliances to the generous bench and cupboard space. Stylish and detailed throughout with a thoughtful and practical floorplan that will suit the growing family or if you’re just getting started. Head outside and enjoy the vacant acreage vista views. Sit back, relax and entertain on the rear deck and admire the ever changing views and local wildlife. A generous size rear yard has loads of room for the kids and pets to run around. A superb property with nothing to do but move in and enjoy! Ideally located just minutes walk to local schools, shops and transport.
Set on over half an acre of established gardens, this charming country property offers a wonderful opportunity to embrace a slower pace of life. Complete with a greenhouse, garage and woodsheds, there’s plenty of room to indulge your gardening passion and make the most of country living, all just a short trip from Warburton township. At the heart of the home is a spacious country kitchen, a natural gathering place for family and friends, complete with a cosy wood fire for those cooler days. The generous lounge room is equally inviting, where picturesque garden views provide a beautiful backdrop and an open fireplace creates the perfect setting to unwind and relax. Three bedrooms, each featuring timber floorboards, continue the home’s timeless character. Two enjoy lovely garden outlooks, while the third captures the surrounding mountain scenery.
David Carroll M 0419 539 320 Inspection: Tuesday 5 - 5.30pm
3
23 Kent Street, Warburton
$645,000 - $695,000
A
1
B
Rebecca Doolan M 0401 832 068 Inspection: Saturday 1 -1.30pm
3
77 Eileen Grove, Woori Yallock
A
1
B 2 C
$650,000-$710,000
Alpine Glamour! Beautifully Crafted, BRAND NEW HOME!
Convenient Low Maintenance, Easy Care Living
Perched proudly in a quiet and highly appealing position, this exceptional three-bedroom, twobathroom residence brings new age glamour to Warburton. The open-plan living and dining zone are the heart of the home, with stunning colour selections, refined décor and an abundance of natural light creating an effortlessly elegant setting. The kitchen is a showpiece, centered around a striking butcher-block bench that will delight even the most discerning home chef. Engineered timber flooring flows beneath your feet, adding warmth and texture, while expansive views towards Mount Little Joe provide a spectacular alpine backdrop. The master suite is equally inviting, bathed in natural light and finished with a glamorous walk-in robe. Two further bedrooms and a beautifully appointed bathroom provide flexibility for guests, family or the ultimate weekend escape.
Beautifully presented and conveniently located, this property will suit those looking for convenience and an easy care low maintenance lifestyle. Neat as a pin throughout, offering 3 bedrooms plus a separate meals/dining area and a spacious lounge/living area. The kitchen is neat, well appointed and has ample bench and cupboard space. Fresh, light and bright with quality décor and furnishings throughout. The easy care front and rear yards are well maintained with well established gardens with an array of flowering trees and shrubs. An immaculate and faultless property in every aspect and ideally situated just minutes stroll to local shops, schools and transport.
Rebecca Doolan M 0401 832 068 Inspection: By Appointment
3
A
2
B 1 C
David Carroll M 0419 539 320 Inspection: By Appointment
3
A
1
B 1 C
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Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 31
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SPORT
Gemmill’s great golfing earns him the win at Warburton By Ron Hottes Well, folks, with lovely weather looking like sticking around for a while, the course is in magnificent condition, and plenty of players are appreciating the smooth running and consistency of the greens. Well done, Paul Mason - extraordinary Greenkeeper. Monday Ladies: The ladies had a reasonable field on Monday, and yes, Vicki Hottes won again! Vicky scored 17 solid points to take the honours by one from Suzanne Barratt, who finished runner-up with 16 points. Unfortunately, nobody managed to claim the nearest the pin this week. Oh well, we’ll wait until next week and hopefully someone will score one! Wednesday Midweek Competition: Hamish Gemmill took out Wednesday’s competition with an excellent 38 points, a very good result indeed. Rob Ferguson grabbed the runner-up prize with 37 points, winning that voucher on a
countback. There were plenty of nearest-the-pin prizes handed out as well. ■ Third hole: Ian Garside (Junior) hit a lovely tee shot that finished just 110 centimetres from the pin. Well done, Junior! ■ Fifth hole: Dave Wappett finished an impressive 78 centimetres from the pin on this tough 15th hole. And no, he didn’t three-putt, so that was a good effort! ■ Ninth hole: Ron Wilson shared the nearest the pin. ■ 12th hole: Fergie added a nearest-the-pin prize to his runner-up finish, making it a good day all round. ■ 15th hole: My old mate Steuart Hawke grabbed a great nearest-the-pin on this tough par three. That should please Rhonda. Saturday Competition – Four-Ball Best Ball: Saturday’s Four-Ball Best-Ball competition produced a tie at the top, with both winning combinations recording an excellent 47 points. Jeff Sharp and Josh Hin took the honours on
a countback, narrowly beating Chris Leighton and Bobby Hancock. Well played, everyone! The nearest-the-pin winners were: ■ Third hole: Josh Hin. ■ Fifth hole: Troy Murphy. ■ Ninth hole: Nobody, which is unusual on one of the easier par threes! ■ 12th hole: Peter Fox. ■ 15th hole: Dale Sund, that multi-talented single-figure golfer that he is. Well done to all our winners. Thursday Midweek Twilight: The Thursday midweek Twilight competition has now completed its second week, and last Thursday’s winner was Ashley Hall with a very impressive 21 points. Ashley beat Bobby Hancock by one point, with Bobby finishing on 20. The nearest-the-pin prizes went to Charlie Cochrane on the 12th and Jane Schendzielorz on the 15th. Jane, a very capable single-figure golfer, hit a beauty on the 15th, finishing just 79 centimetres from the pin. Well done, Jane! All I can
say is, watch out, Luke! Club Reminders: Club Championships: If you want to play in the Club Championships, please make sure you have officially entered. The championships start in a couple of weeks, on 7 November, so don’t leave it too late. Back to Warby Day – Now 24 October: Back to Warby Day has been put back a week and will now take place on 24 October. While plenty of members have already booked in, the committee would really love to see some past members and familiar faces return for the day. It’s a great opportunity to catch up, enjoy a lovely lunch, have some fun and compete for plenty of prizes. The format is a four-person Ambrose, so get your team together and be ready to play next Saturday. That’s all for this week, folks. Good golfing, everyone, and let’s hope this beautiful weather continues.
Growing enthusiasm for junior sides at Lusatia Cricket Club Our junior combined sides are growing in numbers and enthusiasm, with two Mini-Bash sides playing on Friday night, whilst the U12 team took on Seville at Woori Yallock. Archie took two wickets and Maxwell hit 18 runs as we went down to Seville. The U14s also took on Seville on Saturday morning, in the first week of a two-day match. Bowling first, our bowlers were economical, restricting Seville to 175 off their 50 overs, with Mason McNeill the standout with 2-19 off eight overs. The U16 combined side with Eastfield are in a strong position in their split-innings format, having scored 7-130 in their 25 overs and kept Ver-
mont to 6-98. Men’s First XI: The First XI had their first red-ball hit-out at Woori Yallock Reserve, taking on Eastfield. Bowling first, it was young Flynn Pritchard who did the early damage, taking the first two wickets. The bowlers and fielders toiled all day, with a tireless Adam Dunn bowling 19 overs, whilst Lochie Winter-Annette got a handy run-out to go with his bowling figures of 3-53. Eastfield were eventually dismissed in the second-last over of the day for 329. Men’s Second XI: The Second XI had Ainslie Park to contend with at Gracedale Park, and although the pitch and ground conditions weren’t ideal, they were
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22 off 17, including four boundaries. Dismissed for 99, it didn’t take too long for South Croydon to pass the score, with Matthew Holland’s 2-6 off 5 overs the standout with the ball. Women’s: On Sunday, the girls played their hearts out, and whilst there wasn’t success in terms of wins, they continue to develop and grow! Highlights in the Junior Girls side included Amelia batting solidly for 22 balls and nearly reaching retirement, along with Abi and Charlee taking two wickets. In the Senior Women’s side, Darcy Allen batted patiently, facing 52 balls, whilst Olivia English continues to go from strength to strength, taking a wicket in the bowling innings against Croydon Ranges.
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happy to get out there and bat first. Corey Winter-Annette got them off to a blistering start with his 46 off 42, whilst stand-in skipper and allround legend Stephen Morgan steadied the ship after a middle-order collapse. He played a patient innings of 54, ably supported by Terry Bennett and Marty White. Eventually dismissed for 204, the short bowling stint later in the day proved fruitful, with Terry jagging a wicket to have Ainslie Park 1-7 going into next week. Men’s Third XI: The Third XI took on South Croydon at Glen Park, with many juniors filling the side. Batting first, not many could reach double figures, but Matthew Holland hit 35 off 36, whilst the highlight was U14 player Oscar Broussard, who scored
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CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGER Jaeger Group is seeking a full-time, permanent Construction Project Manager to join our team based in Healesville, Victoria. The successful applicant will be responsible for coordinating and managing construction projects from planning through to completion, including project scheduling, subcontractor coordination, procurement, site progress, quality control, budgets and client communication. Key responsibilities include: • Managing construction projects and timelines • Coordinating contractors, subcontractors and suppliers • Monitoring project budgets, quality and progress • Liaising with clients, consultants and project stakeholders • Ensuring projects are delivered safely, efficiently and to specification • Maintaining project documentation and reporting Position: Construction Project Manager Location: Healesville, Victoria Employment: Full-time, Permanent Salary: $90,000 AUD per annum Applicants should have relevant construction project management experience, strong organisational and communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple project requirements effectively. To apply: Please submit your application and CV to info@jaegergroup.com.au Jaeger Group is an equal opportunity employer.
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SPORT
Club kicks off 26-27 season By Elly Byrne The first round of the competitive season for 26/27 has arrived, but throughout the winter months the club has remained open and buzzing. The joy of winning two grand finals last season and gaining promotions was certainly the impetus to keep the bowls rolling and we were fortunate to gain a few new members to the club as well. During the offseason, Marty and Jason played off in a quality close men’s singles match with Jason prevailing while Angela took the title for the women’s singles from Jane. The Tuesday Twilight pairs tournament was again well supported with father/son combo Jason and Oliver taking top spot after a very tight qualifying round. They then went on to win the pairs competition. The inaugural mixed pairs championship was won by Sue and Ian and the 100up competition saw Jason take yet another win after a very strong start by Howard. Yarra Glen were the victors of the quicka bowls tournament between Yarra Glen, Warburton, Healesville and Yarra Junction. Presidents’ Day was again another well supported event, and then a mini king of the hill tournament saw father/daughter combo Damian and April take top honours. The AGM saw a change in the board of management with Ian MacGregor stepping down from the role as President after eight years leading the club. His contribution during that time has been enormous and the club is fortunate that he has agreed to continue to be a board member. The board remains strong with Jason and Sue voted president and vice president to lead the club forward. The recent working bee by the wonderful volunteers had the club in perfect condition for the first game of the season, a double-header home game for Division Five and Division Seven. Saturday’s first pennant round got off to a great start. Division Five played Warburton with the Eagles securing the overall win with three rink wins and one loss. Howard’s team had a close battle from start to finish winning 19/14 whilst Jasons team played catch up with a great comeback, but Warburton held their nerve to prevail 19/23. Adrian’s team consistently built on points throughout the game with Adrian also demonstrating the value of a great skip on multiple occa-
Another big win for the Yarra Junction Bowling Club. (Supplied)
Adrian’s team beat the visitors 120/50. (Supplied) sions to finish 42/4. Marty’s team also had a great win 40/9 and would probably take the loudest rink of the day award. 120/50 final score. Division Seven played Lilydale with all rinks having excellent results, three wins and a draw for an overall win of 130/47. A great start for the team, including four new members playing and Alex G skipping for the first time.
With the lunch break score looking good at 59/23, they continued to pull ahead throughout the second half. Mark C 34/12, Tony G neck and neck at 17/17, Alex G 37/5, Damian 43/13. The midweek season commences Tuesday 20 October with a Division Four team playing at home against Heathmont. With not enough players to field a full team each, a Division Six composite team combining
YJBC and Warburton players has been entered to enable participation of their members. Division Six play Boronia at Warburton. Yarra Junction Bowls Club is community-minded and continues to involve the community in activities that benefit the community. An alcohol-free board games night runs on the last Monday of the month. We participated in the over 50s festival by running a Devonshire tea and lawn bowls event and plan an Oaks Day event for the community on 5 November. A three-week consecutive-week community bowls challenge tournament starts on Friday 6 November. This is a great opportunity for local businesses, community groups, sponsors or any group interested. The club is available for functions, and Rustik continues to provide catering and meals. All details for events held at the club can be found on the Yarra Junction Bowling Club Facebook page. See you at the Happy Club.
Tough start brightened by upcoming events By Garry Lewis The Warburton Bowls Club had a disappointing start to the Summer Pennant Season with both weekend sides being defeated. Warburton 1 played Upwey-Tecoma 1 away, and it was a close game for most of the day. Unfortunately, all our rinks began to leak shots towards the end and finally went down by 28 shots overall, 88 to 60. Adam Donohue rescued a point with the final bowl of the day to level the rink’s score. It was a disastrous day for Walshy’s rink, losing a player early on and struggling against very talented opposition. Rink scores were A. Donohue 20/20, G. Walsh 7/26, P. McConachy 16/21 and C. Neale 17/21. They now play Heathmont 2 at home this weekend, and are determined to regroup. Warburton 2 played Yarra Junction 1 on their very awkward and challenging green. The home side handled the conditions a lot better than the Burras to record a huge victory, three rinks up, 120 shots to 50. Well done to Matt Van Meur’s rink, who won 23/19! The other rink scores for the Burras were D. Nisbet 14/19, J. Bodin 4/42 and S. Darwall 9/40. They will now play Eastwood Golf 1 at home this weekend, aiming to improve greatly. The Midweek Warburton 1 side will travel to Whittlesea for their first game on Tuesday, October 20. The combined side with Yarra Junction will be playing Boronia 3 at home in their first game. A free Community Bingo Night will be held for ‘Get Online Week’ this Wednesday, October 21, at 34 MAIL | Tuesday, 20 October, 2026
Bowls practice match at Upwey-Tecoma. (Supplied) the club rooms. Doors open at 6.30 pm for a 7 pm start. Bingo with a difference, with all the favourite games, including Music Bingo. Prizes galore and lots of fun for everyone, and families and friends of all ages are encouraged to attend and join in the fun. Refreshments will be available from the Bar. The extremely popular Wednesday Night Barefoot Bowls Jack Attack Triples Competition commences on Wednesday, November 4, from 6.30 pm for a 7 pm start. Snacks and entry into the Weekly Raffle are included. All equipment will be provided, and drinks will be available from the Bar. This is open to all interested people, including Beginners. All you need is a team of 3, think of a team name, and enter the team. At the time of preparing this report, one or two more teams were still required to ensure a full complement of sixteen. Social Bowls continues each Monday from 12 midday. Contact the club by email at warbbowls@outlook.com or text 0473653137, and someone will contact you accordingly.
A big week of events for Shirley Heights EC. (Flying Change Photography)
Midweek dressage winners By Anita Prowse A big week of events saw Shirley Heights EC Midweek Dressage on Wednesday. The winners were: ■ PSG - Pamela Hall on Fortuity. ■ Adv - Kylie Pedder on Dicavalli Dimitri. ■ Med - Kim Whitting on Nuno Cruzeiro Do Sui. ■ Elem - Joanne Watson on DVP Fredastaire. ■ Nov - Natasha Moody on Springside Serrano. ■ Prelim - Allysse Smith on Kiuna Park Sir Percival. Well done, everyone. The weekend saw Show Jumping at Gladysdale in the most perfect weather: 140cm placings: ■ 1st: Jena Bloomfield and ESSOESS. ■ 2nd: Late Beadel and Crackle E 4th. ■ 3rd: Jena Bloomfield and Warnie. ■ 4th: Kate Beadel and Charlotte Elmare. ■ 5th: Claudia Beer and Riverton Affirmation.
■ 6th: Tori Glass and Bonnie Valley Hakuna Matata. 130cm placings: ■ 1st: Daniel Leach and Kilara Park Cassius Clay. ■ 2nd: Adam Johnson and Up. ■ 3rd: Kate Beadel and Crackle E. ■ 4th: Stephanie Mitchell and Tulara Cascolensky. ■ 5th: Suzie Williams and Cavalli Park Ciara. ■ 6th: Tony Erickson and Sylvandale ca Ching. 120cm placings: ■ 1st: Grady’n Stones and Riverton Ballet. ■ 2nd: Suzie Williams and Call of the Wild. ■ 3rd: Kate Beadel and Totally Wild. ■ 4th: Lacey Ramsbotham and AEA Be Inspired. ■ 5th: Isabel Houghton and Yoicks Kimikain. In equal 6th, we have Suzie Williams and Cavalli Park Ciara, Emily Hill and Verocca, Sally Black and Jeronimo. Great job, everyone, and Happy Riding!
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SPORT
Wandin in their winning ways By Greg Foden It was a fantastic weekend for Wandin Cricket Club, with wins across both Women’s sides and the Men’s Third and Fourth XIs, while the Men’s First XI put themselves in a commanding position heading into day two. There were plenty of standout individual performances, important partnerships and team-first efforts across the grades. Wandin Women’s First XI: The Women’s First XI kicked off the day in style, securing an away win over North Ringwood after winning the toss and electing to bowl first. Olivia and Lisa set the tone early with tight lines and excellent support in the field. The pressure paid off in the 13th over when Tilly claimed Wandin’s first wicket, thanks to a sharp catch from Olivia at point. From there, Wandin’s fielding was outstanding, producing four direct-hit run-outs through Tilly (two), Ellie and Lisa. Charlotte and Audrey also picked up a wicket each as Wandin restricted North Ringwood to 3/49 at drinks before eventually bowling them out for 7/114. Maddy and Audrey provided a steady start to the chase, reaching 1/28 in the 10th over before Maddy departed for seven. Charlotte (9) and Audrey (19) then lifted the scoring rate with a quickfire 20-run partnership. At drinks, Wandin were well placed at 3/71, with Kim (13) and Tilly (11) at the crease. A brief flurry of wickets gave North Ringwood some hope, but captain Olivia took control when it mattered most. Her unbeaten 17, alongside Nyree’s one not out, guided Wandin comfortably to victory. It was a well-rounded team performance, with everyone sticking to the plan and delivering on plenty of key performance indicators. Wandin Women’s Second XI: The Women’s Second XI produced an excellent bowling and fielding performance to defend a total of 7/85 and secure a 24-run away victory over Wantirna South. Runs were difficult to come by in Wandin’s innings, but the batters showed plenty of determination. Alannah Peet top-scored with a patient 12 from 38 deliveries, while Lily Hartigan provided a late boost with an unbeaten nine from just four balls. With 86 required for victory, Wandin needed a disciplined effort with the ball, and Jacquie Lowrie delivered a standout spell. She finished with remarkable figures of 3/3 from four overs, maintaining an economy rate of just 0.75. Alannah also made a significant contribution, taking 2/10 from three overs. Natalie Lowe was economical, conceding just seven runs from her three overs, while Emma-Lee Curwood and Donna McGowan helped maintain the pressure. Wantirna South finished on 5/61 from their 20 overs, handing Wandin a well-earned 24-run win. It was a terrific team effort built on disci-
It was wins across the board for Wandin Cricket Club. (File) plined bowling, committed fielding and determination with the bat. Wandin Men’s First XI: The men’s made a powerful start to their twoday clash against Heathwood Second XI, finishing day one on an imposing 371 after 80 overs, having won the toss and elected to bat away from home. Opener Jamie Atkinson was the star of the innings, carrying his bat to finish unbeaten on a superb 129. He received excellent support from Jayden Battaglene (51), Peter Vaughan (52), club president Bryce Edwards (44) and captain Dylan Cuthbertson (48). Atkinson and Vaughan combined for a match-high 96-run partnership before Atkinson joined Cuthbertson for another valuable stand of 83. The captain entertained with some powerful hitting, narrowly missing out on a half-century. With Liam McGookin unbeaten on seven at stumps, Wandin finished the day in a commanding position. Atkinson’s outstanding century was a special moment for the club, and the side will be eager to carry its momentum into day two and press home the advantage. Wandin Men’s Second XI: The Men’s Second XI won the toss and elected to bat first against Chirnside Park, with Rick and Luke providing a steady opening partnership. The pair rotated the strike well and avoided unnecessary risks before Luke was dismissed for 31 in the 25th over. Tyson joined Rick at the crease and immediately lifted the scoring rate. Wandin closed their 36 overs at 1/141, with Rick unbeaten on 44 and Tyson unbeaten on 53. Chirnside Park started their innings aggressively, racing to nine runs before Wandin claimed the
breakthrough. What followed was an impressive turnaround, as the visitors lost seven wickets during their first 36 overs to finish at 7/119. Rory led the bowling attack with 3/34, while Dan claimed 2/27 and Alex chipped in with 2/4. Tom also impressed behind the stumps, producing two stumpings to cap off a strong team effort. Wandin head into next week in a promising position, needing just three more wickets to secure victory. The side will be looking to finish the job and turn a strong Day One performance into a win. Wandin Men’s Third XI: The Third XI secured a convincing victory over Healesville at Wesburn Oval, chasing down a target of 155 to finish at 3/158 in just 30 overs. Batting first, Healesville posted 8/154 from their 36 overs. Julian Polido led Wandin’s bowling attack with an impressive 3/30 from seven overs, while Thomas Chrisfield claimed 2/32. David Marshall and Emanuel Vallence also picked up a wicket each, and Lachy Alderman delivered an economical spell of 1/8 from six overs. Wandin’s batters then took control of the chase. Ben Warren led the way with an outstanding 50 before retiring not out, while Matthew Owens remained unbeaten on 34. Archie Brown contributed a valuable 30, with Lachy Alderman adding 15 and Thomas Chrisfield scoring 12. Reaching the target just three wickets down demonstrated the depth and composure of Wandin’s batting lineup. A disciplined bowling effort laid the foundation before a confident run chase ensured the Third XI came away with the points. Wandin Men’s Fourth XI:
The Fourth XI travelled to Yarra Glen and returned home with a comfortable victory after chasing down the opposition’s total just one wicket down in the 25th over. Batting first, Yarra Glen finished at 10/133, with Wandin’s bowlers keeping the pressure on throughout the innings. L. Vaughan was among the standouts, taking 3/30, while A. Peet claimed 1/6 from his five overs. G. Stubbs also starred with the ball, taking an impressive 3/12. The fielding effort was equally strong, with A. Peet taking two catches behind the stumps and contributing to a run-out. Stubbs backed up his brilliant bowling performance with an outstanding half-century after flying in from overseas and heading straight to the ground. It was a remarkable effort and a terrific contribution to the team. There was also a special milestone for A. Savage, who retired after scoring his first-ever 50 in an incredible 43 years of cricket. Congratulations, Savage, on a memorable achievement! Wandin’s successful chase capped off a strong all-round performance from the Fourth XI, with the young players leading the way and valuable experience helping the side get over the line. A great weekend for Wandin With four wins across the five grades featuring completed results, and the Men’s First and Second XIs both well placed after day one, it was a positive weekend for Wandin Cricket Club. From outstanding individual performances to disciplined bowling, sharp fielding and composed batting partnerships, the weekend showcased the depth and team spirit throughout the club.
Day One struggle for Healesville against Wantirna By Suzanne Tyzack First XI – Day 1 v Wantirna: Travelling to Wantirna South, Healesville batted first and immediately lost Josh Handasyde, soon followed by Lever, Hamer and English. Tom Handasyde (61) and Nick Zinghini (47) then went about rebuilding the innings before Zing was caught in the covers. Healesville again lost a clump of wickets to eventually finish on 159 for the day. On a slow ground, they will hope to bowl well and get their first win of the season on the board. Second XI – Day 1 v St Andrews: Healesville’s Second XI, up against St Andrews’ Third XI, bowled really well to dismiss them for 134. Liam English took 3/23 and Jack Drummond 2/23, with Michael Davern and young Louis Keath taking two wickets each. With Healesville getting a good 30 overs with the bat, Tyler Braden made short work of the run chase, hitting seven fours and a six before falling just shy of a half-century on 48. Ben Wallace (30*) and Aeden Senti (20*) finished the day, leaving Healesville at 2/132 with just three runs needed to win next week. Third XI – Day 1 v Seville: Healesville all out for 100; Seville Burras 4/83 at stumps. Fourth XI – Healesville 8/154 defeated by
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Wandin 3/158: Healesville lost the toss and were sent in to bat, getting off to a slow start. They picked up the pace through the middle but left a lot of runs out there, finishing at 8/154. Top scorers were Anthony Simmons (29) and Tully Ellis (21). Healesville then toiled away with the ball, but Wandin passed the target after 30 overs. Pick of the bowlers were Zach Coleman (1/9) and Tully Ellis (1/10). U16-2 – Day 1 v Mooroolbark: Batting first in their two-dayer against Mooroolbark at Queens Park, Healesville’s innings got off to a flying start, with six players all finding life in the middle far less entertaining than the sidelines, combining for two runs and leaving Healesville at 6/30. Fortunately, skipper Raff Morcombe played an excellent hand, making 75 off just 38 deliveries before being caught. A late flurry from Mika Kerst (30) and Sam Keath (30*) saw Healesville fight back to 164. A good bowling effort will be required, but they’re far from out of the game. U16-5 – Day 1 v Hoddles Creek: Healesville’s U16-2s travelled to the picturesque Hoddles Creek ground for a return two-dayer, coming off a win against the same team last week. Healesville batted first and kept up a healthy
run rate early, with Alex Simmons capping a strong performance with 35 off 50 balls. Healesville finished their first innings at 5/124 with some decent batters still in the shed. Hoddles started their innings strongly before Healesville’s bowlers gained the upper hand, with Daniel Shaw the pick of the bowlers with 2/11 off four overs. They just couldn’t get the last wicket for a day one win, with Hoddles 9/84 at stumps. U14-4 – Day 1 v Boronia Hawks: Day one of a two-dayer for the U14s against Boronia Hawks at Don Rd. Healesville batted first, making a watchful 5/65 off their first 25 overs, with excellent top-order batting from Angus Holmes (20*) and Alby Gotch (11) and several other players contributing. In Boronia’s innings, opening bowler Mason Kincaid (1/14) made the early breakthrough in the second over to put pressure on the visitors. Challenging fielding conditions and missed run-outs saw the Boronia batters get away from Healesville, until a late flurry of wickets to the tricky off-spin of Hayden Trumble (2/13) and a maiden wicket for Theo Preece (1/22) saw Healesville finish strong. U12-9 – Healesville 4/70 defeated by Chirnside 5/77: Charlie Hamer again produced a strong batting performance with 13 off 15 balls, and bowling figures of 1/5, alongside Callum Stewart (1/7),
Raff Morcombe on his way to 75. (Captured by CJL) Finn Hawker (1/13), and Logan Stevenson (1/8). U12-4 – Healesville 4/150 defeated Lilydale 33: Max, Felix, Lenny and Reggie all took two wickets, with Reggie Morcombe backing up with a brilliant 36 off 15 balls, including six 4s and a 6, sharing the batting honours with Angus Holmes (30*). The U12-4s are looking very strong this year. Stage 2 Girls – Healesville 5/80 defeated by Bayswater Park 3/105: Bowling first Healesville captured three wickets with Lucy Harding, Karuna Ellis-Gopalan and Elodie Handasyde each getting a wicket. Healesville then batted out their 23 overs but fell short with Olivia English 13, Ronnie Leonard 12* and Amelia Hall 10* Healesville’s top scorers.
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