Tuesday, 27 October, 2026
Digital Duty of Care bill debated
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Fighting fire from the air By Oliver Winn A Yarra Valley firefighter has joined more than 36 emergency service personnel at Hamilton Airbase to train as Victoria’s newest aerial firefighting crew. Wandin CFA volunteer Andrew Feagan, a firefighter of 28 years, completed the air attack course during the week-long program running from 5 to 9 October. “Aviation is something I always wanted to get into, and never thought I’d get the chance,” he said. The multi-agency training covered key roles including air attack supervisors, airbase managers, aircraft officers, hot refuellers, and bomber loaders. Participants attended from Victorian emergency agencies, interstate, and New Zealand. Multi-agency aircraft operations manager Wayne Rigg said every operational role was critical. “Aerial firefighting is about supporting the community in times of need, as well as the ground crews,” he said. Read more on page 9
The training involved members from a variety of emergency services. (Supplied)
Respectful debate By Gabriella Vukman The alleged attack on Federal Indi MP Helen Haines has renewed concerns around the safety of politicians and prompted further calls for improved safety measures. As Victoria readies itself for a state election on 28 November, the incident called into question how candidates can continue meeting voters face-to-face while managing the risks associated with public life. Candidates campaigning across outer east electorates shared their thoughts on how the
growing threat of political violence undermines the accessibility that underpins representative democracy. Labor candidate for Evelyn Annalise Sherlock said social media platforms need to be proactive in stopping abuse and harassment online. For Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino, the incident was “horrific and heartbreaking” and had made her more conscious of safety measures for herself, her staff and volunteers. Independent candidate for Eastern Victoria Antoinette Pitt said improving women’s safety in public life required systemic change rather than
placing the responsibility on women to protect themselves. “We cannot keep telling women to be careful, not be alone and remain vigilant because we already do that every day and it’s exhausting,” she said. Federal Casey MP stressed the importance of maintaining respectful democratic debate in Australia. “One of the biggest strengths of our democracy is that politicians are able to engage with their communities and resolve differences of opinion through rigorous debate,” he said.
One Nation MP Ricki-Lee Tyrell said political debate had become more hostile, recalling an unsettling encounter with an agitated person at a public event. She also urged the Victorian Electoral Commission to prioritise the safety of volunteers and voters when selecting polling locations for prepolling and election day. The challenge remains protecting politicians, staff and volunteers without undermining the face-to-face engagement that allows communities to be heard. Read more on page 4
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Violi voices Bill criticism By Oliver Winn Robust debate in Parliament in mid-October saw more amendments made to the Digital Duty of Care bill as Labor attempts to win crossbench support. While experts and online safety advocates welcomed the changes, the Coalition still opposed the bill in its current form. The Digital Duty of Care bill aims to protect Australians from the negative parts of online platforms such as harmful material, addictive features and hate. It works by placing the onus of responsibility on service providers - everything from social media platforms to websites, online games and messaging apps - to provide a safe online environment for Australians. One proposed change would allow users to “opt out” of social media algorithms, bringing back chronological feeds showing content from accounts you actually follow. Youth organisation Teach Us Consent welcomed the change and said it was a “major step” towards protecting everyday Australians from invasive and addictive algorithms. RMIT school of computing technologies researcher Dr George Buchanan said this legislation would help protect Australians from being “force-fed” harmful content such as misogynistic views, extremist content and deliberate trolling. “Polarising algorithms draw parallels with high-sugar foods or additives in cigarettes. While they can lead to either more enjoyment or stronger engagement in the short term, they cause long-term damage and predictably leave the taxpayer with the consequences,” Mr Buchanan said. There’s a large body of evidence showing how algorithms prioritise polarising and extreme content.
Casey MP Aaron Violi questioned the Digital Duty of Care bill’s impact on small businesses in Parliament. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas) A study from Dublin City University revealed that it takes just 23 minutes for a social media account mimicking a 16-18-year-old boy to be fed misogynistic content, regardless of the account’s viewing preferences. Meanwhile, polling from Teach Us Consent found regardless of political views, 78 per cent of Australians think social media users should have full control over what they see online. But Liberal Casey MP Aaron Violi said the bill was a “blank cheque for political censorship”. “We all want to see Australians protected online, however, even with the Minister’s unfettered powers removed from the bill, the Liberals and I have concern over the many remaining flaws in the bill and what they mean for free speech,” he said. But Dr Buchanan said by letting people opt out from the algorithm, the legislation is actually giving people control over what they want to see as opposed to stifling free speech. “I think the challenge is that some people
Users would get the chance to opt out of social media algorithms under the new legislation. (Joel Carrett/AAP) essentially see the obligation to safety as being implicitly targeted against particular political identities. And I don’t think that is actually true. “It is actually the experience of inappropriate news that you do not want to see and a lack of the content you do want to see that is actually the underlying problem,” Dr Buchanan said. The Digital Duty of Care bill initially gave the Communications Minister Anika Wells the ability to add further categories of seriously harmful material or conduct by legislative instrument. But that has been changed and now, for new categories of harm to be added, it has to be done through Parliament passing amendments to the law. Mr Violi also said the bill was “the next stage of Labor’s war on small business” because all businesses with a website would have to undertake annual reporting under the bill. But in Parliament on 15 October, Labor’s
Small Business Minister Anne Aly said the large majority of small businesses would have minimal obligations under the new laws. “Now, that is in recognition of the fact that websites and apps run by small businesses generally don’t … facilitate any user-to-user interaction, private messaging, or otherwise facilitate connection between strangers [or] allow users of the website to upload or stream or generate content for other users,” she said. Other criticisms of the bill surrounded the risk that educational material, such as safe sex or drug education would be indirectly targeted and removed. But amendments were also made to exclude “material that is necessary for, or of assistance in, protecting or promoting public health and safety”. Mr Violi also criticised the bill for introducing legal protections that would enable independent scrutiny of big tech platforms through what’s known as “sock puppet identities”. Sock puppets (in the context of this bill) are fake online accounts used by researchers to test how online platforms work. Mr Violi said it would enable “sweeping powers” for the eSafety Commissioner to “track people anonymously online”. But these “sock puppet” account protections would only cover approved researchers at Australian universities. Dr Buchanan said the Digital Duty of Care bill was the first time a law has attempted to address the damaging effects of online service providers. “I think that this is the first time that we have had a piece of legislation that is identifying that there are public costs and public consequences that come as a result of the addiction-based design that these social media companies have leaned towards over time,” he said. The bill is now under a Senate inquiry which will report back before the end of the year.
Duty of care pledge to protect children from climate harm Candidates standing in the November Victorian election have pledged to legislate a Duty of Care that would hold the next state government legally accountable for climate harm inflicted on children and future generations. So far, 98 candidates across the political spectrum have signed the Pollies’ Pledge, including Animal Justice Party MP Georgie Purcell, Greens MPs Ellen Sandell, Gabrielle de Vietri, and Aiv Puglielli (North-Eastern Metropolitan), alongside independent candidates Dr Lachlan McKeeman (Benambra), Sophie Torney (Kew), Antoinette Pitt (Eastern Victoria), Michael Nugent (Eastern Victoria), and David Vanderwolf (Croydon). Highlighting the deep connections between youth advocacy and environmental crises in regional Victoria, Animal Justice Party MP for Northern Victoria Georgie Purcell emphasised the urgent need for structural political accountability. “The very first nationwide School Strike 4 Climate occurred in 2018 in Castlemaine, not far from where the devastating bushfires took place earlier this year,” Ms Purcell said. “Those students knew their future was on the line and they were right, but they should never
Independent candidate for Croydon David Vanderwolf has signed the pledge. (Callum Ludwig: 579941) Northern Victoria MP Georgie Purcell is one of the signatories to the Duty of Care pledge. (Supplied) have to fight to be heard while their communities face worsening climate disasters. Young people will be the ones who suffer from the consequences of continued political inaction. The decisions we make today will decide their future, and legislating a Duty of Care is just one way that we can hold governments to account.” The commitment arrives months after January’s catastrophic fires swept through Victoria, burning over 400,000 hectares, destroying
or damaging at least 300 homes, and triggering more than 2600 insurance claims. Dr Lachlan McKeeman—a Wodonga GP, Wooragee CFA volunteer, and independent candidate for Benambra who served on the fireground in January—stressed the direct physical and psychological impacts on youth. “I’m a GP and a father of three, and I was on the fireground here in January,” Dr McKeeman said. “Smoke, heat, and the stress of a disaster land hardest on kids. They breathe more air for their size, they can’t leave, and they carry it for years.
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Children are the ones who live longest with the decisions governments make today, and they have no say in them. A Duty of Care means the next government has to ask what a decision does to a child before it makes it.” By signing the pledge, candidates commit to enacting legislation requiring decision-makers to treat the wellbeing of young people as a paramount responsibility across all government portfolios. The movement builds on the ground-breaking legal effort led by youth advocate Anjali Sharma, the lead applicant in the 2021 Federal Court case that initially found the Environment Minister owed Australian children a duty of care. “The court that overturned our win in 2022 did not dispute the danger. It said protecting us was a matter for politicians. These candidates have put their names to doing that job,” Ms Sharma said. “We are asking every candidate on the ballot to sign. Anyone who says they care about young people’s future should be able to put it in writing.” The pledge remains open to all candidates contesting the election on 28 November. The complete list of signatories is available at climatedutyofcare.org.au/pollies-pledge.
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Ex-Wandin footballer not guilty of rape By Oliver Winn A County Court jury found Lilydale man Max Nazzari not guilty on 20 October of raping a woman multiple times. It comes after the ex-Wandin footballer was accused of raping a woman in February 2024, a day after she told him she had an IUD inserted and could not have sex. The jury found 21-year-old Mr Nazzari not guilty on three charges of penile penetration, but they could not reach a verdict on two additional charges of digital penetration. Crown prosecutor Paul D’Arcy told the court Mr Nazzari had been communicating with the woman since the second half of 2023. He said the woman had told Mr Nazzari that she “can’t do it” when he started touching her while they were lying in bed together on a night in February. The day before, she had an IUD inserted, and she said her GP had advised her that she couldn’t insert anything in her vagina. The GP told the court she couldn’t recall whether the advice was an instruction or just a suggestion. Mr Nazzari said in an interview with police after the incident that he was aware of the IUD before seeing the woman that night and he denied penetrating her. But the prosecutor alleged Mr Nazzari went on to penetrate the woman multiple times despite her telling him to stop. The father of the woman told the court she was “devastated, just crying and really quiet” after the incident.
CFA crews extinguished a machine on fire and an out-of-control burnoff on 22 October. The first callout came after reports of a digger on fire in the middle of a paddock on Station Road, Wesburn at around 9.27am. A CFA spokesperson said crews “discovered the cab of a large digger on fire”. “Units responded from Warburton and Wesburn-Millgrove. “Incident was deemed under control at 9.44am and safe at 9.51am.” Only 22 minutes later at 9.49am, CFA units from Seville and Yellingbo headed to reports of a grass and scrub fire in Woori Yallock. The burnoff had spread from its location at Warburton Highway to nearby trees. “Incident was deemed under control at 10.20am and safe at 11.25am,” a CFA spokesperson said.
Damage to home and car fires believed to be linked
A County Court jury found Max Nazzari not guilty of three charges of rape. (AAP Image/Con Chronis) A friend of the complainant met her after and told the jury that she was “a completely different person”. “I could barely recognise her,” the friend said. Defence lawyer for Mr Nazzari, Paul Kounnas argued it was not rape because “when the ‘no’ was said, things stopped”. He said the woman’s recollection of the night had become “far more sinister… and doesn’t re-
flect the objective truth of what happened”. Mr Kounnas also argued Mr Nazzari would have to be “stupid” to rape the woman because her brother, a “fairly big unit”, was sleeping in the room over. “The brother would’ve killed him,” Mr Kounnas said. The court adjourned for a directions hearing on 30 October.
Light a candle for Indi MP Dr Helen Haines After news of the devastating alleged attack on independent Indi MP Helen Haines shocked Australia, community members were invited to join a candlelight vigil as ‘the best response to violence is peace’. Victorians were being encouraged to light a candle at 8pm on Friday 23 October and stand quietly for fifteen minutes. Local Voices groups in the federal electorates of Deakin and Casey encouraged outer east locals wishing together in person to join them at Ringwood Lake Park from 7.30pm with a candle. In a post on Facebook, the Voices 4 Yarra Ranges group said their love and thoughts are with Dr Helen Haines, her family and the community she has so tirelessly represented. “Helen is a hero of our movement and the finest example of true community representation in politics,” they said. “The shock of such a frightful and unfathomable attack reverberates across the Voices Community Independents movement, as well as throughout our Nation.”
Fires extinguished in Woori Yallock and Wesburn
She’s a lovely person and so well respected.” Politicians across the Outer East also shared their shock and concern as the news broke on Monday night. “I am incredibly saddened to hear of the shocking incident involving Dr Helen Haines MP tonight in Wangaratta,” Casey MP Aaron Violi posted on Facebook. “My thoughts and prayers are with Helen and her family during this difficult time.” Aston MP Mary Doyle sent her best wishes to Helen and her loved ones. “She’s a lovely person and so well respected,” she posted on Tuesday 20 October. “I cannot fathom what happened to her yesterday afternoon.” Deakin MP Matt Gregg posted that he was absolutely shocked and heartbroken to hear what had happened.
“Helen is one of the most decent, principled and conscientious people I’ve come across – rightly respected throughout the chamber,” he posted. “My thoughts are with Helen, her family and the many who love and respect her.” State MP for Eildon Cindy McLeish, whose district partially crosses over with Dr Haines’ electorate, said the news is heartbreaking. “Helen has worked tirelessly for the people of our region, and I know this news will have deeply shaken communities across north-east Victoria,” she posted on Facebook. “My heart goes out to Helen and her loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. “I join our community in wishing Helen strength and a full recovery.” Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence and Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino also shared messages of support. Dr Haines has featured in the Star Mail on a number of occasions, speaking on issues of pork-barrelling, support at home packages and helping launch the Voices of Casey campaign in 2022.
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.
Bird flu: Mental health reminder Outer east locals are reminded to look after their mental health when they see birds suffering from bird flu. Many are concerned about the impact of bird flu in the outer east and beyond, but it’s important to take care of their own mental health too. People should seek support if they feel worried or distressed by seeing sick or dead birds in the environment. Victoria’s chief health officer, Dr Caroline McElnay said she understood that people may feel concerned when they see sick or dead birds and hear reports about bird flu in wildlife. “While the current risk to the public remains low, it is important to look after your wellbeing and seek support if you need it.” “Getting information from trusted sources, limiting exposure to distressing content and staying connected with family, friends and your community can all help support your wellbeing,” she said. To keep up to date with Victoria’s response to H5 bird flu, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/ birdflu.
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Safety is in the spotlight By Gabriella Vukman The alleged attack on federal Member for Indi Helen Haines has renewed concerns about the safety of politicians, their staff and volunteers, with candidates across the region calling for greater respect, practical safety measures and action against intimidation. As Victoria approaches its state election on 28 November, the incident has prompted fresh questions about how candidates can continue meeting voters face-to-face while managing the risks associated with public life. For those campaigning across electorates such as Evelyn, Monbulk and Eastern Victoria, safety concerns extend beyond physical security, with online harassment, gendered abuse and threatening behaviour at community events also emerging as issues. While experiences differ across political parties, a common theme among those who spoke to this publication was the importance of protecting candidates without undermining the accessibility that underpins representative democracy. Labor candidate for Evelyn Annalise Sherlock said the incident highlighted the importance of safety procedures while campaigning, even though her experiences with voters had largely been positive. “We always work in pairs, and we make sure we know where everyone is at all times when we’re out in the field.” Ms Sherlock said women in public life faced particular scrutiny, including sexualised and appearance-based comments. “It’s more personal, it’s more sexualised, and it often targets how we look,” she said. She has encountered online comments targeting her gender and sexuality, although she has not experienced such prejudice directly while door-knocking. She called for social media companies to do more to address abusive accounts while acknowledging the challenge of balancing moderation with freedom of political expression. “I think more should be done by social media companies to restrict and monitor these accounts for sending these threatening and abusive messages,” she said. Despite the risks, Ms Sherlock said positive interactions with voters remained a reason to keep campaigning. “There’s more good out there than bad,” she
Following the alleged attack on federal MP Helen Haines, local candidates and MPs reflect on the risks of public life. (AAP). said. Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino said the alleged attack was “horrific and heartbreaking” and had made her more conscious of safety measures for herself, her staff and volunteers. While Ms De Martino said most interactions with constituents are respectful, she plans to avoid advertising her movements before attending events where possible. She said online political debate had become increasingly hostile, with women particularly affected by intimidation and abuse. “The rise of intimidation and aggression via comments from social media accounts, many of which are bots and trolls purposefully trying to foment hate, is disturbing,” she said. De Martino subsequently published rules for engagement on her social media pages, encouraging respectful discussion and directing constituents with genuine enquiries to contact her office by phone or email. She also backed the Albanese Government’s proposed Digital Duty of Care legislation, arguing social media platforms needed to address the spread of abusive content. “I hope that we can bring down the temperature of our debate and I believe that starts in the online realm.” “When algorithms reward outrage, anger and
abuse, it’s no wonder that more of this content enters the fray and sometimes it translates to the real world, which is the greatest concern,” she said. Independent candidate for Eastern Victoria Antoinette Pitt said improving women’s safety in public life required systemic change rather than placing the responsibility on women to protect themselves. “We cannot keep telling women to be careful, not be alone and remain vigilant because we already do that every day and it’s exhausting,” she said. Pitt described an uncomfortable interaction while campaigning, when a man made comments about her legs. She said women in leadership have long faced unfair targeting, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, women with disability and women from migrant backgrounds. She calls for governments to invest in community resilience, early intervention and support for women candidates, including mentoring and online safety initiatives. “We need adequate planning for systemic change and a culture which supports community resilience, cohesion and inclusion,” she said. Ms Pitt also called for threats to be properly monitored and for greater investment in frontline
services to address intimidation, misogyny and violent online content. She said political leaders have a responsibility to model respectful behaviour and help create safer conditions for women entering public life. “Security is an issue for everyone in the community, and it doesn’t matter what role you play, everyone should come home safe from work,” she said. One Nation MP Ricki-Lee Tyrell said political debate had become more hostile, recalling an unsettling encounter with an agitated person at a public event. She said she had not felt unsafe because friends and staff were nearby. “Every person has the right to express their views, but when that becomes personal abuse, that goes too far,” Tyrell said. She praised parliamentary security staff for supporting MPs and their teams, saying their advice is followed. “Our security team at Parliament do a great job looking after MP’s and their staff and we always follow their advice regarding our safety,” she said. Ms Tyrell also urged the Victorian Electoral Commission to prioritise the safety of volunteers and voters when selecting polling locations for pre-polling and election day. Federal Member for Casey Aaron Violi expressed his concern for Haines, her family, staff and community following the alleged attack outside her electorate office in Wangaratta. “The attack on Dr Helen Haines MP outside her electorate office in Wangaratta has distressed and saddened the nation,” he said. Mr Violi said the incident has prompted wider reflection on political safety but stressed the importance of maintaining respectful democratic debate. “One of the biggest strengths of our democracy is that politicians are able to engage with their communities and resolve differences of opinion through rigorous debate,” he said. He added that the legal process surrounding the incident needs to be respected. As the election approaches, candidates say practical safety procedures, better responses to online abuse and greater respect are important to ensuring people can participate in public life. The challenge remains protecting politicians, staff and volunteers without undermining the face-to-face engagement that allows communities to be heard.
‘Deplorable’: Candidates targeted with swastika vandalism By Oliver Winn Candidates running for the seat of Eildon have condemned an abhorrent act of vandalism against the Greens and Liberal candidates on Saturday 17 October. Greens candidate Talia Gulpilil and Liberal Eildon MP Cindy McLeish found red swastikas painted on their corflutes in Woori Yallock and Yarra Junction. As a First Nations candidate, Ms Gulpilil said it was a “deplorable” act of racism and that no candidate should feel unsafe coming up to the election. “I knew putting my hand up would be met with racism and discrimination, it is a reminder that it is still alive and thriving in the community that I call home. “I’d like to thank those who have reached out offering love and support, it has truly meant a lot,” she said. Ms McLeish also found her corflutes vandalised with swastikas and she said it was “disappointing” that politics was heading in that direction. “Politics has certainly become more heated, here and around the world. “People are entitled to their political views, and we won’t always agree. That’s democracy. But damaging signs is just petty, unnecessary and, frankly, getting a bit tiresome,” Ms McLeish said. A Victoria Police spokesperson said they were investigating the incident. “It is believed the signage was sprayed with offensive graffiti along the Warburton Highway in the vicinity of Woori Yallock and Yarra Junction sometime between 17-18 October. “At this stage, the incidents are being treated as linked.” The public use of Nazi gestures and symbols is a criminal offence in Victoria and can result in fines of $23,000, 12 months in prison, or both. 4 MAIL | Tuesday, 27 October, 2026
Both Talia Gulpilil’s and Cindy McLeish’s signs were vandalised with swastikas. (Supplied) Dr Josh Roose, a political sociologist at Deakin University, said there should be zero tolerance of the use of Nazi symbols to spread hate. “The fact is that the highly politicised, highly polarised political environment we’re in at the moment, particularly leading up to a state election, means that there should be zero tolerance for this sort of behaviour. “There’s a large number of right-wing extremists, and there are Nazis currently living in the outer bush suburbs of Melbourne at the moment. “We don’t know if they’re local. We don’t know where this has come from, but at the very least, it requires a strong, strong investigation,” Dr Roose said. Right-wing extremism is growing in Australia, accounting for 30 per cent of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation’s (ASIO) counter-terrorism workload. The movement is described as support for violence to achieve political outcomes relating
to ideologies, including but not limited to, white supremacism and Neo-Nazism. In August 2025, when the self-described neo-Nazi National Socialist Network (NSN) infiltrated an anti-immigration rally in Melbourne, 50 of its members stormed Camp Sovereignty – the site of a historic Aboriginal burial ground in the city. The attack left four members of Camp Sovereignty injured and two with severe head injuries who were hospitalised. Candidates from across the political spectrum expressed their support and condemned the acts. Labor candidate for Eildon Kevin Gibson said he was “deeply concerned and saddened” by the vandalism. “As candidates we all face an increasing level of partisan and sometimes angry behaviour. This is particularly the case on social media where anonymous hatred and threatened violence is becoming common place.
“But the attack on Talia’s signage in Yarra Junction is about far more, its hatred and racism being generated by a white supremacist ideology directed at a young First Nations woman,” he said. Animal Justice Party candidate Chloe Bond said her thoughts were with Ms Gulpilil and Ms McLeish. “As a candidate, I am proud to stand beside a First Nations woman in this election, especially one who is brave enough to advocate for our environment and vulnerable people. “Nobody deserves to be subjected to ignorant, hateful acts of this nature. There is currently an epidemic of violence against women in politics which needs to stop,” Ms Bond said. Independent candidate Tom Ward said he personally reached out to Ms Gulpilil to offer support. “I did see that and it’s deplorable obviously, unacceptable in a modern democracy,” Mr Ward said. One Nation candidate Tim Barber said there was “absolutely no place in society for violence of any kind, to any political candidate”. “Even though we don’t agree politically, we would never ever want any harm done to each other,” he said. Ms Gulpilil’s campaign coordinator, Carly Derisz, said she acted immediately when a community member alerted her that the signs had been vandalised. “I immediately took that down ‘cause I felt that the community shouldn’t have to see that, particularly people of colour or First Nations people or Jewish people that live in the community,” Ms Derisz said. Ms Gulpilil thanked those who had reached out and offered her support. “We know that this behaviour is not representative of our community overall, but it is rising and we must join together to say enough racism, enough attacks on our democracy.”
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Koala habitat restoration effort boosts ecosystems More than 2000 native trees have been planted across the Yarra Valley to restore local koala habitats and strengthen vulnerable ecosystems. The extensive revegetation project was carried out throughout the 2026 winter and spring planting seasons by Yarra Ranges Council’s biodiversity team and community volunteers from the Tree Project. Funding for the initiative was provided through the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife’s (FNPW) Landscape Resilience Program. The newly planted species were selected specifically to expand habitat cover and feeding corridors for koalas and other threatened native wildlife across priority sites in the municipality. Yarra Ranges Mayor Richard Higgins said the project represents a vital investment in the region’s long-term environmental health. “These 2000 trees represent an important investment in restoring habitat for koalas and supporting the diverse species and ecosystems that make Yarra Ranges so special,” Cr Higgins said. “Our region also supplies approximately 70 per cent of Melbourne’s drinking water, so it’s incredibly important to take care of our natural environment, for our local communities, and for Victoria as a whole.” The Yarra Ranges spans more than 188,000 hectares of native vegetation which includes Mountain Ash forests and key riparian corridors and provides habitat for over 2700 native flora and fauna species. Up to 50 of these species are listed as threatened under the federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act. FNPW Chief Biodiversity Officer Mark Cairns
Koala habitats are being strengthened by tree planting efforts. (Pixabay via Pexels) highlighted the role of community collaboration in supporting long-term biodiversity. “These 2000 trees will re-establish the cano-
py cover and feeding corridors that koalas and other threatened species depend on to thrive,” Mr Cairns said.
“The trees will directly improve habitat connectivity and build environmental resilience across the Yarra Valley.”
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Hat’s off to TarraWarra By Gabriella Vukman TarraWarra Estate’s restaurant has retained its place among the Yarra Valley’s recognised dining destinations, continuing a Chef Hat streak that began in 2017. For head chef Daniel Snooks and restaurant manager Olivia Carmichael, the recognition reflects years of maintaining high standards, working closely as a team and making the most of the produce grown on the estate. Mr Snooks, who has been head chef at TarraWarra for just over 12 months, brings around 20 years of cooking experience to the role. After beginning his Yarra Valley career at Oakridge, he moved to TarraWarra and quickly developed an appreciation for the property and its resources. “We’ve got great produce out here and great resources with our garden,” he said. “I’m really enjoying coming out here to TaraWarra each day and being a part of everything that it’s got to offer.” For Ms Carmichael, who has worked at TarraWarra for almost a decade, the restaurant is a familiar home. “Everything I’ve been doing since I became an adult has been here,” she said. The restaurant received its first Chef Hat in 2017 and has continued to hold the distinction, although the awards were paused during parts of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the recognition is a personal milestone for Mr Snooks, the team sees it as an acknowledgement of the restaurant’s ongoing efforts. “It’s quite an achievement to get recognised here at TarraWarra and be a part of keeping that consistency going,” Mr Snooks said. One of the restaurant’s key priorities has been strengthening its connection to the estate’s kitchen garden, with a renewed focus on growing produce for use across the menu. Over the past six months, the team has expanded its garden program, bringing in additional gardening support to help increase the range of ingredients available to the kitchen. The aim is to use Victorian produce wherever possible, while allowing the changing seasons to influence what appears on diners’ plates. The garden’s influence extends beyond the kitchen, with ingredients also finding their way into the restaurant’s cocktails. The menu itself is deliberately compact, featuring snacks and an entree shared by all diners, a choice of three main courses and a dessert common to everyone. That smaller format gives the kitchen greater
TarraWarra’s Head Chef Daniel Snooks enjoyed attending the awards night to receive the restaurant’s latest hat. (Gabriella Vukman: 586402). scope to focus on individual ingredients and develop dishes around what is growing at the time. “When we see something growing, or we’re thinking about what’s coming up in the garden, we’ll start to plan our menus around that,” Mr Snooks said. While the garden program is an area of continued development, the team believes the restaurant’s success comes from more than its ingredients alone. Service, teamwork and a commitment to maintaining standards all contribute to the experience, with Snooks and Carmichael confident in the people working across both the kitchen and dining room. “We’re really happy with the team that we’ve got in place both in front and back of house,” Mr Snooks said. “If you can keep consistency with your team you’re in a good spot, to keep doing what you’re doing and even improve on it.” The pair said they do not spend much time worrying about losing the award, instead concentrating on continuing to deliver the level of food and service they expect of themselves. The Australian Good Food Guide’s Chef Hat Awards recognise culinary achievement through assessments of the food served at restaurants. Inspectors dine anonymously, with their evaluations considering factors including ingredients,
flavour, presentation, technique, value and consistency. For TarraWarra, maintaining the award over several years is a point of pride, particularly as the team continues to refine its menu and develop its garden. The latest awards also provided an opportunity to celebrate the wider hospitality industry, with the TarraWarra team attending the ceremony alongside colleagues. Mr Snooks said it was rewarding to reconnect with people he had worked with throughout his career and to be among so many talented chefs and hospitality professionals. The team went out for dinner together after the ceremony, using the occasion to celebrate the achievement as a group. The awards also brought a familiar face into the spotlight, with Emerald City in Healesville receiving a Chef Hat of its own. Emerald City head chef Joel previously worked at TarraWarra before joining forces with Cavanagh’s Whiskey and Ale House owner Brendan Alderdice to establish the intimate restaurant. Ms Carmichael said the team was delighted to see Joel recognised, particularly given his connection to the estate. The recognition of restaurants across the region highlights the depth of talent in the Yarra Valley’s hospitality scene, with local venues help-
ing attract diners and strengthen the area’s reputation as a food and wine destination. TarraWarra Estate spans approximately 400 hectares, incorporating vineyards, a nature reserve, cattle grazing, a kitchen garden, a cellar door and the restaurant. The estate’s landscape and winemaking heritage provide a distinctive backdrop to the dining experience, with the restaurant offering guests the opportunity to enjoy seasonal food alongside the property’s wines. Looking ahead, Mr Snooks and Ms Carmichael plan to continue building the garden program, with warmer weather expected to open up further opportunities for growing produce. The garden remains a developing project, and the team is already planning for the seasons ahead, including next autumn and winter. “We’re really hoping to just keep that kicking off in a strong way,” Mr Snooks said. With a loyal base of regular diners and a team committed to maintaining its standards, TarraWarra is focused on building on its existing strengths rather than making changes for the sake of change. For Mr Snooks, Ms Carmichael and the wider team, the continued Chef Hat recognition is a reward for the work happening every day, from the garden and kitchen through to the service that brings the entire experience together.
A not-so-mad Hat for Emerald City in Healesville By Gabriella Vukman A once-neglected staff room behind Healesville whiskey bar Cavanagh’s has become a destination for diners, with the two-year-old Emerald City restaurant earning recognition in the Australian Good Food Guide (AGFG) Chef Hat Awards. For head chef Joel Alderdice and Cavanagh’s Whiskey and Ale House owner Brendan Cavanagh, the accolade is a welcome acknowledgement of the intimate restaurant they have built together over nearly three years. But neither set out to win a Chef Hat when the unusual dining concept first took shape. “I think my wife summed it up well,” Mr Cavanagh said. “This award is a compliment. It’s not validation for the work we are continuing to do here.” According to Mr Cavanagh, the hat came as a complete surprise. “We never received our invite to the awards night, so we had no idea we got the hat.” “Joel was cooking dinner at home and I was out for dinner with the family, trying to make sure my 1.5 year old and 3.5 year old didn’t tear the place apart when my wife saw a message saying ‘congrats on the hat.’ Despite missing the awards night, Mr Cavanagh and Mr Alderdice celebrated their achievement over lunch in Warburton. Emerald City restaurant, which operates behind Cavanagh’s on Healesville’s Main Street, began with a conversation between mates about what to do with an unused space. “Joel told me the idea over a beer,” Mr Cavanagh said. “We got up straight away and walked across the road to Cavanagh’s to have a look at where 6 MAIL | Tuesday, 27 October, 2026
Joel Alderdice and Brendan Cavanagh are stoked at receiving their hat. (Gabriella Vukman: 586399). this new restaurant would fit.” It wasn’t long before the pair set about transforming the room, adding air conditioning, soundproofing, new lighting and other improvements to create a comfortable, functional dining space. Within a few months, Emerald City was ready to welcome its first guests with its intimate setting central to its appeal, offering a different experience from a conventional restaurant. The venue operates with a set menu, allowing Mr Alderdice to create dishes that encourage diners to try something new without feeling overwhelmed by unfamiliar ingredients. Mr Alderdice said the aim is to strike a balance between creativity, approachability and a connection to local produce. “The menu is a set menu and is inspired inpart by the restaurant space itself.
“We want our diners to leave feeling like they’ve had something different, delicious and local that they’ll probably want to come back for.” “The challenge is knowing how far to push the boundaries.” For Mr Alderdice, who has worked as a head chef with a hat at other venues, Emerald City represents his first hatted restaurant concept developed in partnership with Mr Cavanagh. “It feels good to have done it our way,” Mr Alderdice said. The Australian Good Food Guide’s Chef Hat Awards recognise restaurants and chefs across the country, with assessments based on anonymous dining visits and feedback from the public. Unlike awards that assess a venue’s overall atmosphere or service, Chef Hats focus on the food itself. Inspectors consider elements such as ingredi-
ent quality, flavour, presentation, cooking technique, value and consistency when evaluating a restaurant. The guide uses a scoring system out of 20, with its annual awards reflecting the results of its assessment process. For Emerald City, the recognition has also introduced the restaurant to diners who may not previously have known about the small venue tucked behind the whiskey bar. Brendan said the award had not changed the team’s approach to hospitality. “We’re still doing everything the same.” “It doesn’t mean that we’re, charging extra,” he said. “The only thing that has changed is that maybe more people that didn’t know about us previously will come in and dine.” While industry recognition is welcome, both Mr Cavanagh and Mr Alderdice said their greatest satisfaction comes from seeing guests enjoy the experience and return. “We love it when locals come in and seeing the smiles on their faces when they tuck into that steak,” Mr Cavanagh said. “Some of our diners have visited 11 times.” For the team, those relationships are a key part of what makes the restaurant worthwhile, particularly as diners continue to find ways to celebrate special occasions despite the rising cost of living. For Mr Cavanagh the Chef Hat is also something the wider community can take pride in. “I’m proud of what we have achieved, and hopefully Healesville is too,” he said. As Emerald City continues to welcome diners, the team intends to keep doing what has brought them this far: creating thoughtful food, offering a personal experience and making guests feel at home.
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ADVERTORIAL
Mozart’s Don Giovanni brings opera to regional Victoria Opera lovers and newcomers alike will have the opportunity to experience one of the world’s most celebrated operas when Lyster Opera takes its fully staged production of Mozart’s Don Giovanni on tour across Melbourne and regional Victoria this spring. Running from September to November 2026, the eight performance season will visit South Yarra, Moe, Milawa, Castlemaine, Rye, Creswick, Warburton and Talbot, bringing live opera to several communities where such performances are a rare treat.
Warburton Adventure Co were nominated for their exhilarating outdoor activities. (Supplied)
Businesses in the running
Directed by Jamie Moffat, with Pamela Christie as Musical Director, the production features Mozart’s captivating score performed live by a chamber ensemble of 12 musicians, supported by Melbourne Opera. Sung in Italian with English surtitles, each performance runs for approximately two and a half hours, including one interval, and begins at 2pm. First performed in Prague in 1787, Don Giovanni follows a wealthy nobleman whose pursuit of pleasure and conquest leaves a trail of chaos in his wake. Blending comedy with darker themes of murder, revenge and supernatural judgement, the opera moves effortlessly between moments of humour and gripping drama. More than 230 years after its debut, the story remains remarkably relevant, exploring power, desire, accountability and the consequences of believing the rules do not apply to you.
By Oliver Winn
Charismatic and fearless, Giovanni is a complex character whose actions raise questions about freedom and responsibility, making this enduring masterpiece as provocative and entertaining today as it was in Mozart’s time.
A coveted cherry orchard, an award-winning pub and a renowned adventure company from the Upper Yarra were picked as finalists for this year’s Victorian Tourism Awards. The awards night takes place on 26 November, with finalists Cherry Hill, Alpine Hotel and Warburton Adventure Co competing with 95 finalists across 32 categories as they compete for the state’s high tourism honours. Cherry Hill head of brand and marketing Phoebe Morley said the whole team was “thrilled” to be recognised as a finalist. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the food tourism experience we’ve built over the years, and a meaningful acknowledgement of the entire team who work together to bring this experience to life each year,” she said. For the Alpine Hotel co-owner Rachael Northwood, the nomination was an “incredible honour” on the back of winning Pub of the Year at The Age’s Good Food Guide awards. “It’s deeply validating for our entire team to see our efforts recognised on a state level. We have worked tirelessly to create a warm and welcoming space in Warburton, where locals feel at home and visitors can experience the town’s beauty and hospitality,” she said. As an adventure company providing outdoor experiences, Warburton Adventure Co’s nomination reflected the wide array of tourism offerings in the Upper Yarra. Its co-owner Sam Maddock said not only was it “wonderful” to get the nomination, but it also felt like a hard-earned validation of the work they’ve put in since opening in 2021. “It feels like a validation of six years of hard work—blood, sweat and, yes, a few tears. We’re incredibly proud of how far we’ve come,” Mr Maddock said. The Victorian Tourism Awards are presented by the Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC). It recognises the businesses that go above and beyond to deliver exceptional visitor experiences, support local jobs and strengthen Victoria’s visitor economy. VTIC chief executive officer Lisa Patroni said the awards were an important opportunity to recognise the businesses and people whose hard work, innovation and commitment keep Victoria’s visitor economy moving forward. “These awards are our opportunity to celebrate that commitment and recognise the people who make Victoria such a remarkable place to visit, but it’s also an opportunity to amplify that when we back tourism, we back Victoria,” Ms Patroni said. Gold winners in eligible categories will go on to represent Victoria at the Australian Tourism Awards in 2027, showcasing the state’s best tourism experiences on the national stage. Ms Northwood thanked the staff whose hours, day in and day out, kept the pub running and provided its award-winning hospitality ex-
Experience Don Giovanni at Arts Centre Warburton
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Local audiences can enjoy this remarkable production at Arts Centre Warburton as part of Lyster Opera’s regional tour. It is a wonderful opportunity to experience the drama, humour and beautiful music of live opera close to home. Tickets are available by scanning the QR code in the advertisement below. The tour concludes at Talbot Town Hall on Saturday 14 November 2026.
LYSTER OPERA PRESENTS
Cherry Hill orchard were thankful for the nomination. (File: 222352)
“A very worthwile contribution to the cultural life of Victoria......most enjoyable” Heather Leviston, Classic Melbourne
ARTS CENTRE WARBURTON 3409 WARBURTON HIGHWAY, WARBURTON
Sung in Italian with English subtitles
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perience. “Going from Pub of the Year recognition straight to being a Victorian Tourism Award accommodation finalist is a massive milestone for us. This wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support system around us. Our extraordinary staff who live locally, with their hard work, warmth, and passion, bring this hotel to life every day,” she said. Her thanks extended to the local Warburton community, the visitors from afar who travel to experience the Alpine Hotel’s hospitality, and the local suppliers who provide the pub with the essentials. “This recognition belongs to all of them just as much as it does to us,” she said. Ms Patroni said tourism was more than a great holiday or a memorable weekend away. “It’s an economic driver that supports jobs, attracts investment and brings new spending into communities right across our state,” Ms Patroni said. Mr Maddock echoed the sentiment, saying he hoped to continue providing work opportunities for the community while growing Warburton as a tourism destination. “We want to keep growing sustainably, creating local jobs and pathways into the outdoor industry, and giving people more reasons to visit and stay in the valley. “A special shout-out to Visit Victoria… and to our local business collaborators. A strong network of businesses working together is what makes Warburton tick and helps all our businesses,” Mr Maddock said. Ms Morley had equal thanks to be given to the customers who keep Cherry Hill rolling. “We welcome visitors from across Victoria, interstate and all around the world who love picking their own cherries at Cherry Hill, and we’re incredibly grateful for their ongoing support,” she said. The nominations mark a vote of confidence in the Upper Yarra’s business community and its ability to provide top-notch tourism experiences.
Tuesday, 27 October, 2026 | MAIL 7
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Shed win for CFA By Gabriella Vukman Badger Creek CFA will receive $66,667 in state funding to replace an ageing storage shed at its fire station, addressing safety concerns and improving facilities for local volunteers. The funding has been awarded through the Victorian Government’s Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP), which supports volunteer brigades with funding essential equipment, vehicles and facility upgrades. Badger Creek CFA captain Nic Rodway said the current shed is about 50 years old and has developed several problems, including leaks and occupational health and safety concerns. “Quite often you’ll go to the shed and you’ll open the door, either a rat will run out or you’ll be hit with a stench of a dead rat that hasn’t been able to find its way out.” “The current shed isn’t waterproof, so storing archives and brigade history there isn’t possible,” he said. “We are looking forward to the station being a cleaner and more functional place.” For a small brigade with limited fundraising opportunities, the contribution will significantly reduce the financial burden of the upgrade. Mr Rodway said the brigade would contribute about $35,000 towards the project, with the government providing the remaining funding. “It is a lot of money for us, because we don’t have the ability to do a lot of fundraising in our
brigade area.” “To have this government funding come through is fantastic.” The brigade applied for the funding for a second consecutive year before being successful in the latest round. Its previous major funding success came in 2007, when it received support to purchase a crew-cab tanker under the Community Safety Emergency Support Program (CSASP), an earlier version of the VESEP program. Broadway said that application took five years to secure, due to the competitive nature of the funding process. According to Emergency Management Victoria, applications for VESSEP funding are assessed through a priority system involving the brigade’s district, the CFA’s north-east region and headquarters. Projects are considered on their ability to improve operational capabilities, with facility applications also assessed for safety concerns and other needs. The new shed is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, with planning anticipated to progress from around March, after the main fire season. The funding forms part of the 2026–27 VESEP round, which will provide CFA with $23.17 million for more than 160 projects across Victoria. The funding includes $13.26 million for vehicles, $5.96 million for facility improvements,
$341,858 for operational equipment and $18,872 for volunteer amenities. Almost 30 tankers and 25 field command vehicles are expected to be delivered as part of the program. CFA Chief Officer Garry Cook said the program helped ensure volunteers had the resources needed to serve their communities safely and effectively. “VESEP continues to play a critical role in helping our brigades access the equipment, vehicles and facility improvements they need to support their communities,” he said. “Our volunteers dedicate countless hours to training, community education and emergency response, and this funding helps ensure they have the resources required to carry out that work safely and effectively.” Under VESEP, brigades contribute funding towards approved projects, with the government providing two dollars for every dollar contributed by the brigade. Mr Rodway urged residents to begin preparing their properties for the coming fire season, warning that conditions could be unpredictable. “It’s 50-50 whether it’s going to be a really dry season or a really wet season, but we need to prepare for the worst,” he said. “Now is the time for people to start preparing their properties, and have an up-to-date fire plan.” “Your local CFA will always be happy to help you out if you have any questions.”
Andrew Feagan is a volunteer at the Wandin CFA. (Supplied)
The training involved members from a variety of emergency services. (Supplied)
Aviation students from all over the country made the trip to Hamilton for the training. (Supplied)
Sky’s the limit: Wandin CFA member takes part in aviation firefighting training By Oliver Winn A Yarra Valley firefighter trained alongside more than 36 budding aviation students to become the state’s next cohort of air crew firefighters. Five training courses took place from 5-9 October, including theory and practical components to become air attack supervisors, airbase managers, aircraft officers, hot refuelers and bomber loaders. Wandin CFA member Andrew Feagan attended training courses at Hamilton Airbase, where he took 28 years of firefighting experience to the air. “It’s been an amazing journey. Aviation is something I always wanted to get into, and never thought I’d get the chance,” Mr Feagan said. Having completed the air observer course a few years ago, he was finally selected for the “epitome” of aviation training: the air attack course. “I did the air observer course a few years ago, and then putting the time and effort in, working with some amazing people in aviation across all agencies. To then finally get a position on the air attack course is amazing.”
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Multi agency aircraft operations manager for the training Wayne Rigg said every position was critical for delivering successful aviation operations. “Aviation training isn’t all about flying helicopters and aeroplanes, there is so much management and logistics that goes on in the background. “Our airbase managers are here making sure there’s food and fuel and accommodation sorted and that everything goes right, then we’ve got logistical support with aircraft officers who would generally work out of an incident control centre. “Our air attack supervisors are in the air, above the water bombing aircraft, so they’re managing the tactical aircraft, talking to the ground to make sure that it’s safe,” Mr Rigg said. Each year, the training location rotates between Hamilton and the Latrobe Valley, as the facilities allow agencies to utilise established training centres and airbases. Volunteers and agency staff right across Victoria, from CFA, FFMV, VICSES, FRV, EMV and Parks Victoria, resided in Hamilton for the week, alongside firefighters from New Zealand, South Australia and New South Wales who also made
the journey. Mr Feagan said the multi-agency collaboration enabled the team to understand different approaches to their work. “We’re nearly colour blind when it comes to uniforms in aviation, so we’re just there doing stuff, working together, which is fantastic to see and the way it should be.” Mr Rigg said aerial firefighting was about supporting the community and the firefighters on the ground. “Aerial firefighting is about supporting the community in times of need, as well as the ground crews. They’re the ones that put the fire out, we go out and help them. “Our aerial firefighting personnel are renowned, which is why we’re always called upon for our skill set, knowledge and experience to help out overseas, and we’re really proud of that.” Mr Feagan said it was great to train alongside other roles in the aviation team to understand how everyone works together. “It’s a massive team, so it’s not just the flying. So to take the time to learn what we do and where it fits in the bigger picture… it’s really important.”
Run for the Young volunteers Kate, Thomas, Nik, Holly and Beck are excited and ready for the 13th event. (Mikayla van Loon: 585919)
Run for the Young Marathon celebrates 13 years of running for a cause The Yarra Valley is set to come alive with energy, community spirit and plenty of running shoes as the Run for the Young Marathon returns for its 13th annual event, continuing a cherished tradition that combines fitness, family fun and a meaningful cause. Organised by Bridge Builders Youth Charity, the event welcomes runners, walkers and families of all ages and abilities, offering everything from a 2.5km kids run for children aged 12 and under to a 5km, 10km, 21.1km half marathon and the ultimate 42.2km marathon challenge. Race Director Beck Mitchell said reaching the 13th year is an exciting milestone and a testament to the community that has supported the event over the years. “It’s incredibly exciting to be bringing the Run for the Young Marathon into its 13th year. What makes this event so special is that it’s about so much more than running — it’s about bringing people together, creating lasting memories and making a real difference in the lives of young people,” Beck said. “Whether you’re a seasoned marathon runner, a first-timer, a family tackling the kids’ run or someone who simply wants to enjoy a leisurely walk, there’s a place for everyone. We want people to come along, have fun and be part of something bigger than themselves.” Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Yarra Valley, the Run for the Young Marathon offers participants the opportunity to challenge themselves, enjoy the outdoors and experience the welcoming atmosphere of a community event that truly puts people first. Most importantly, every dollar raised through the event goes towards supporting Bridge Builders Youth Charity and its work with young people. “Every dollar raised has a purpose. It helps support the work Bridge Builders does with young people, and that gives every participant another reason to feel proud of being involved,” Beck said. The event’s inclusive spirit is at the heart of its success, encouraging people of all fitness levels to get involved — whether they’re chasing a personal best, encouraging their children across the finish line or simply enjoying a day out with friends and family. The full marathon course will remain open for six hours, with the event wrapping up at 1pm, giving marathon participants the opportunity to take on the challenge at their own pace. With 13 years of history behind it, the Run for the Young Marathon is more than a date on the Australian running calendar. It’s a celebration of community, generosity and the power of people coming together to make a difference. “Thirteen years is something we’re incredibly proud of, and we’d love to see even more people join us this year,” Beck said. “Bring your family, bring your friends, lace up your shoes and come and be part of it. Every step counts.” For event details, race information and registration, visit runfortheyoung.com
Tuesday, 27 October, 2026 | MAIL 9
NEWS
Building safer communities By Patrick Millman On a crisp Saturday morning at the local Don Road Sporting Complex, the clatter of boots on the grass and the ball echoing off the boundary fence are carried by an unfamiliar visual backdrop. Lined across the perimeter of the fence are freshly printed banners, featuring the combined logos of local high schools, medical centres, pharmacies and sporting clubs. Standing prominently on the banner is a bold, yellow text that says, “Say no to domestic violence and yes to respectful relationships.” The campaign, spearheaded by the Rotary Club of Healesville president, Terry Hill, deliberately shifts domestic violence prevention efforts into local football, soccer, netball and cricket clubrooms. For Hill, the decision to focus on sporting clubs reflects their place in the social dynamic of regional communities. Football, netball, soccer and cricket clubs bring together local players, families and volunteers to reach people outside of formal education or workplace settings. Family violence prevention researcher Dr Kirsty Forsdike explains that sporting clubs can provide an effective setting for prevention because they bring together people from across the community. “Sporting clubs are really a microcosm of our
community, our local communities in particular,” Dr Forsdike said. Rotary hopes that placing prevention messaging in familiar environments will make discussions about respectful relationships part of everyday life, rather than being discussed only when violence occurs. With reported domestic violence incidents having recently risen by eight per cent across the nation according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the initiative brings primary prevention into the everyday social hubs of young men to challenge the ingrained gender attitudes at their source. “It’s where we think we should be targeting, turning young players, the young males in soccer clubs, footy clubs, and cricket clubs,” Terry adds. “It’s about people respecting each other … and breaking down those barriers to prevent this in the domestic scene.” Viewed as a stronghold for male camaraderie, local sporting communities like the Healesville Football Netball Club are now being repurposed as circuit-breakers, mobilising entire towns before domestic issues arise. Sporting clubs offer a regular point of contact for community members, making them a potential setting for conversations about respectful relationships. The challenge for Healesville’s campaign will be turning a visible public message to conversa-
tions that continue inside clubrooms and beyond the football season. “But there’s prejudices that you’ve got to break down… [the] whole thing we’re trying to do is break down those barriers, prevent this in the domestic scene.” Central to the campaign’s strategy of engaging club members is bringing prominent figures directly into the local clubrooms. Anti-domestic violence campaigner and former Australian rules footballer Phil Cleary will serve as the initiative’s primary guest speaker on 23 November. The strategy relies on surrounding players with a unified message across every corner of daily life. Beyond sporting communities, banners will connect local community groups with local supporting institutions such as kindergartens and local schools. To ensure maximum visibility beyond match days, organisers are also embedding the banners into major community gatherings, including local street festivals across Healesville’s main street. Dr Forsdike emphasised that success will rely on strong community response. “And the whole of the community means multiple different parts of the community,” she says. For Terry, the true measure of success lies in the conversations that will start surrounding the town. He hopes to see local community members discussing the issue. “Newspapers, occasional conversations, qui-
et meetings, I think that, to me, would be a huge success,” Terry said. “We did a thing down in the market the other night, and we had four or five Rotarians down there all day … and they were saying things like, ‘Oh yeah, I’m so much in favour of what you do.’” That active stance has even driven a surge in local Rotary membership. “We’re already sensing the success by having three people come into the club because of our stand,” Terry says. “One’s a police officer, a mother, and a daughter.” During a recent local stall event across Main Street, residents approached Rotarians to voice encouragement. However, Dr Forsdike says raising awareness is only part of the challenge, with discussions needing to take place in a constructive environment. “Meaningful success would be, yes, those discussions are happening in a safe and respectful way,” she says. The researcher also cautioned against overlooking the challenges within sporting environments themselves. “We can’t really forget that the sports settings themselves are a key setting for where gender-based violence happens as well.” The campaign’s longer-term challenge will be turning its public message into sustained conversations and action within the wider community.
Trivia night sparks bushfire readiness in Healesville By Gabriella Vukman Over 100 locals gathered at the Healesville RACV Club on Sunday 18 October to promote bushfire awareness. The Healesville Community Emergency Group’s fire preparedness trivia night kicked off with a bang, with tickets selling out well before the event took place. Guests enjoyed a subsidised two-course dinner and an array of door prizes from family passes to Healesville Sanctuary to woollen fire blankets from Creswick Woollen Mills. One of the Healesville Community Emergency Group organisers, Michelle Zwagerman said “It was a huge success.” “The venue was great, the buffet dinner and dessert was delicious, and the MC Brendan from Cavanaugh’s Whisky and Alehouse was funny and engaging.” “The trivia was challenging and educational,” she said. “People had a fun time and learned something, ticking both of our goals for the event.” The event was supported by the Yarra Ranges Council through their Annual Grant, and the RACV Club Healesville, with door prizes donated by local businesses. Winning table ‘Hose before Bros’ claimed a series of vouchers for local businesses in and around Healesville. The trivia night was the first of three major initiatives planned by the Community Emergency Group, with Good Neighbour Week to follow from 9 to 15 November. Ms Zwagerman said the event’s purpose was to educate the local community in the lead up to summer. “We felt it was important to hold this event at the start of the bushfire season to encourage our community to prepare themselves, their families and their properties.” In the Yarra Ranges, surrounded by bush and grasslands, bushfire safety is not simply a matter of responding when a fire starts. It begins well before summer, with informed decisions, practical preparation and a clear understanding of what to do when conditions deteriorate. The Fire Danger Period generally covers several months over the hottest part of the year. During this time, restrictions apply to activities involving fire and the creation of heat outdoors. The Country Fire Authority (CFA) determines when the Fire Danger Period begins and ends in each local council or shire area. Decisions take account of local conditions, including rainfall, drying vegetation and grassland curing. Depending on conditions, restrictions can begin as early as October and commonly remain in place until autumn, when fire danger decreases. During the declared period, burning off without the appropriate permit or authorisation is 10 MAIL | Tuesday, 27 October, 2026
The trivia questions revolved around bush fire readiness. (Michelle Zwagerman).
Attendees were happy to receive prizes donated by local community businesses. (Michelle Zwagerman). illegal. Other restrictions may apply to open-air fires, equipment and outdoor cooking. Residents should check the current restrictions for their local area rather than assuming that rules are the same throughout Victoria. Local councils may also have additional requirements governing open-air burning. A Total Fire Ban is declared on days when fire weather and other circumstances create an exceptionally high risk. The CFA Chief Officer may declare a ban when fires are likely to spread rapidly, existing fires are placing pressure on emergency services, or additional ignitions could overwhelm firefighting resources. On a Total Fire Ban day, most activities involving fire are prohibited, including burning off, even where a permit would otherwise apply. Certain activities, including the use of gas barbecues, may be permitted if all prescribed safety conditions are met. Victoria is divided into nine Fire Weather Districts, with boundaries generally following local government areas. Local authorities are encouraging residents to have a fire plan, the first part of which is to leave early, before a fire threatens the immediate area. According to the CFA website, on days rated Extreme or Catastrophic, residents in high-risk locations should consider leaving well in advance, potentially the night before or early in the morning, in accordance with official advice and their individual circumstances.
The CFA recommends that households know: ■ Where everyone will go if a fire threatens the area. ■ The safest routes out of the neighbourhood and alternative routes if roads are closed. ■ A meeting place if household members are separated. ■ Arrangements for children, older people, people with disability, carers and anyone requiring additional assistance. ■ Transport and accommodation for pets and livestock. ■ Essential medicines, documents, clothing, drinking water and emergency supplies. ■ What to do if someone is at work, school, travelling or away from home when a fire starts. ■ Backup arrangements if the car will not start, the planned destination becomes unsafe or the main escape route is blocked. ■ Know the fire risk of the local area Plans should be written down where practical, discussed with everyone involved and rehearsed regularly. The Healesville Bushfire Impact Mitigation Plan maintains that a well-prepared home may provide some protection from radiant heat, particularly when the property and its surroundings have been maintained to reduce fire exposure. The plan suggests to do the following before fire season: ■ Clear leaves and other debris from gutters and roofs. ■ Remove dry grass, fallen leaves, twigs and bark from around buildings.
■ Cut back branches that overhang roofs or touch walls. ■ Keep firewood, combustible materials and flammable liquids away from the house. ■ Remove vegetation touching buildings and manage shrubs and trees around windows. ■ Use gravel or paving near walls where appropriate, rather than combustible mulch. ■ Maintain lawns and manage garden vegetation to reduce continuous fuel near buildings. ■ Check water supplies, pumps and irrigation equipment. The Healesville Bushfire Impact Mitigation Plan identifies ember entry as a significant cause of building ignition. Embers can travel ahead of the main fire front, enter roof spaces, lodge in gaps and ignite combustible materials around a property. Sealing gaps in roofing, protecting openings with suitable ember-resistant screens and maintaining clear areas around buildings can reduce some of these risks. Building upgrades should be appropriate to the property’s bushfire exposure and comply with applicable building requirements. The safest bushfire plan is one that has been made in advance, practised with the people who depend on it and put into action early. Essential Contacts and Resources ■ Life-threatening emergency: Triple Zero (000). ■ VicEmergency Hotline: 1800 226 226. ■ Emergency information and warnings: VicEmergency website and app. ■ Fire restrictions and preparedness advice: Country Fire Authority (CFA). ■ Local rules and property requirements: Yarra Ranges Council. ■ Bushfire planning: CFA’s Your Guide to Survival and household fire planning resources. ■ Local landscape mitigation: Healesville Bushfire Impact Mitigation Plan, Healesville Community Emergency Group, adopted November 2024. Residents should always check current official information, as fire restrictions, warnings, refuge arrangements and emergency advice can change. For more information on how to get fire ready https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/about-us/cfaevents/get-fire-ready
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River health the focus By Callum Ludwig A coalition of councils have teamed up with Melbourne Water to make the Birrarung (Yarra River) swimmable closer to the city. While local councils on the river in the Outer East aren’t involved, a healthy river will only benefit everyone along the banks. Melbourne Water’s executive general manager for service futures Chris Brace said a swimmable Birrarung is one of the clearest signs of a healthy river. “No single organisation can get us there, so we’re joining others who want to make it happen,” he said. “A lot of what ends up in the river starts on our streets and in our drains. Councils look after those spaces, so their leadership makes a real difference. “The Coalition for a Swimmable Birrarung is not about a single project, location or announcement. It’s about bringing together relevant stakeholders with a powerful and tangible vision, to support healthier waterways, Traditional Owner leadership, improved biodiversity, cleaner stormwater, greater community connection to the river and a more resilient catchment for future generations.” The coalition includes the City of Melbourne, Yarra City Council, Moonee Valley City Council and Banyule City Council alongside Melbourne Water and will look to emulate the feats of cities like Paris, Berlin and Copenhagen which have restored their rivers to swimmable status. Reaching a swimmable river will include improvements to stormwater management, managing the impacts of urbanisation, improving biodiversity and engaging with community and Traditional Owner leadership. The councils will be required to lead on planning, stormwater, open space and urban greening and helping the community see the link between their neighbourhood and the river’s health. While the initiative is focused on the river’s health in the city, the river’s health is shaped by activity across the whole catchment all the way out to Warburton and in turn supports healthier waterways and ecosystems throughout Birrarung and its tributaries. Yarra Ranges’s Council’s director of planning and sustainable futures Kath McClusky said they support the work of Melbourne Water and other metropolitan councils on the project to make the Birrarung/Yarra River swimmable by 2050. “Yarra Ranges is a signatory to the Yarra Strategic Plan (Burdap Birrarung burndap umarkoo) which recognises Birrarung as a living entity. The Birrarung is a significant part of the Yarra Ranges, with more than half the river span
Improving the health of the river in the city will have benefits all the way upstream to Warburton. (File: 525878) located in the Yarra Ranges,” she said. “While the current focus of the Regen Melbourne projects is closer to the city, we support any initiatives that improve the water quality of the Birrarung for local flora and fauna, and our community who visit and use the river often. “Council further supports the health of the river through various land management works including revegetation initiatives. We also proudly collaborate with other authorities and councils along the catchment by hosting community events aligned to the Birrarung RiverFest, Victoria’s community-led annual celebration of the Birrarung.” Melbourne Water has permanent water quality testing sites along the Birrarung to monitor
water health and safety for swimming, and has completed works along the banks of the river in Warburton in recent years as well as ongoing works in Warrandyte to prevent erosion and ensure safe access for swimmers. Manningham City Council mayor Jim Grivas, whose region covers the popular swimming spots in Warrandyte, said Manningham Council supports a whole-of-catchment approach that considers the river as a living ecosystem, with a focus on improving water quality, biodiversity, habitat and the health of waterways that feed into the Birrarung. “We continue to contribute to initiatives including the Burndap Birrarung burndap umarkoo, Yarra Strategic Plan and Melbourne Water’s
Greening the Birrarung and Restoring the Birrarung program,” he said. “Rehabilitation works that support the proposal to create designated swimming locations would complement initiatives to improve the long-term health and resilience of the river in Warrandyte, including riverbank recovery works.” You can check the river’s water quality with the Environment Protection Authority’s Yarra Watch, which monitors the E.coli levels in the river at Launching Place, Healesville, Warrandyte and Kew. Warrandyte is the only area consistently meeting the standard for swimming during dry weather, with all the others consistently rated ‘Poor’.
Fears for flying foxes as food sources dry up By Callum Ludwig Starving, emaciated bats showing up in Victoria and New South Wales have prompted concerns for wildlife rescuers and the community alike. There have been increasing reports of dead and unwell bats, largely vulnerable grey-headed flying foxes, which mostly feed on the fruits of native trees. Tamsyn Hogarth of Olinda’s Fly By Night Bat Clinic said we’re seeing them in people’s mulberry trees, random elms and different plants that they don’t normally eat. “Even though the population is one population, the grey-headed flying foxes, there seems to be a food shortage of their native blossom and nectar and it’s either from the temperature changes or because it’s been too dry,” she said. “Even though the flowers are opening, there isn’t any nectar or the nectar that is there hasn’t got the right proteins in it. “We haven’t seen it to the extent where they’re eating off the ground like they are in New South Wales, but we’re definitely getting those, emaciated, very thin, unwell bats and it appears the moms are giving birth to stillborn babies, who are likely dying in utero due to not enough food sustenance.” Most of the bats being reported in Victoria are 12 MAIL | Tuesday, 27 October, 2026
Young flying foxes at Olinda’s Fly By Night Bat Clinic. (File) currently centred around East Gippsland, with small pockets around Castlemaine that seem healthier, but with the summer months still to come, things could get worse before they get better for the flying, fruit-eating critters. Ms Hogarth said the behavior is very unusual because they’re putting themselves in a high-risk “They’re obviously in such desperate need for food that they’re coming so low to people, that’s why there was media about people being bitten and scratched… “It’s very dire because if we start getting into those forty, high forty degree days, which is expected, we can easily wipe out a huge percentage of animals, if it continues, we’ll likely see already
compromised animals dying quicker in those hotter days. “They only have one pup a year so if we’ve lost another year of a large percentage of pups, it’s an ongoing worry because obviously we’re gonna have the heat and a lot of them die in those extreme temperatures that are expected.” Last year’s summer also caused a mass mortality event for flying foxes, where thousands in Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales died. Ms Hogarth said the best thing for people to do if they notice a flying fox during the day, whether it be in their yard, on a fence or on a powerline, is report it.
“Don’t assume that someone else has reported it, get on to a wildlife rescue group or you can give Fly by Night a call, and we will ask for photos or video, and then we’ll be able to assess the situation,” she said. “It’s not about judging whatever’s happened, because we know it’s not the dog’s fault that they’ve come into the yard and it’s just nature for them… but even if they’re there just to get the bottlebrush, they’ll only be there whilst there’s food, they’re not gonna hang around longer than they need to. “We need the community support to help us, whether it be for a rescue or that information or data, so we can make sure they’re recorded.”
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Pilates fundraiser returns By Mikayla van Loon Vicky Kamakaris and Kathrine Kirkwood make a dynamic duo, so when they put their minds together to host a Pilates fundraiser last year, it came to fruition in just weeks. Building on the success of its inaugural run, The Hundred for the Homeless is returning for its second annual event on Saturday 14 November, bringing the community together for a morning of movement, reflection, and fundraising for local shelter services. Organised by Pilates instructor Ms Kamakaris in partnership with Stable One, the event aims to raise crucial funds for Stable One’s upcoming Christmas fundraising appeal, which officially launches on 1 November with a target of $22,000. Funds raised during the appeal support programs like the Yarra Valley Winter Shelter, an essential service that provides accommodation to people experiencing homelessness during the coldest months. The idea for the fundraiser first sparked when Ms Kamakaris, who has trained and taught Stable One chief executive officer Ms Kirkwood for a decade, decided to put her skills toward a local cause. “This is a very, very, very important cause. Winter is such a horrible time for people to be outside and sleeping out,” Ms Kamakaris said. “Any one of us could find ourselves homeless at any time. You think it’s a particular cohort, but it’s not. And we just want to be able to provide shelter for those people and help this winter appeal get along.” Ms Kirkwood expressed deep gratitude for the ongoing partnership and community response. “We’re so grateful to Vicky. I like to say that she’s using her powers for good by supporting Stable One,” Ms Kirkwood said. “It was really popular last year, we had a great
Instructor Vicky Kamakaris ran the attendees through a beginner-friendly but slightly strenuous session in 2025. (Supplied) The Hundred for the Homeless organisers Vicky Kamakaris and Kathrine Kirkwood. (Mikayla van Loon: 586133) turnout. She worked us hard, but it’s work hard for a good cause.” The inaugural event saw around 50 participants, including women and several men, and raised $3600, beating Ms Kamakaris’ original target of $1000. For Stable One, the value of the event extends far beyond the ticket proceeds. It serves as a crucial platform to educate residents about hidden homelessness in the Yarra Valley and recruit new volunteers for the Winter Shelter. “It’s great because it exposes us to a different cohort of people, that’s what I really love about this,” Ms Kirkwood said. When signing up to participate in The Hundred for the Homeless, people have an option to keep following what Stable One is doing and
achieving. Ms Kirkwood said it was incredibly encouraging to see several attendees “click yes” to that option and want to remain engaged with Stable One. Whether you are a seasoned Pilates enthusiast, a complete beginner, or simply want to stop by to show support, all are welcome. The Hundred for the Homeless will be hosted at the Lilydale Baptist Church between 10am and 12pm, with mat Pilates from 10.30am to 11am and morning tea provided afterwards. BYO exercise mat (carpeted flooring is available if you don’t have one). Tickets are $30, with all proceeds going to Stable One’s Christmas appeal. To book, visit: trybooking.com/au/event/1651913
Test your Pilates skills with Vicky Kamakaris and Kathrine Kirkwood and raise funds for a good cause. (586133) For those unable to attend in person, direct contributions to the $22,000 appeal can be made online at stableone.org/donate/
Anchor honours the kinship and foster carers changing lives By Mikayla van Loon
Kinship care team leader Edwina and foster care team leader Ned. (Supplied) people were often living through something that would take time to comprehend, to heal from and to find peace with. Carers provide a safe place to land, giving these children somewhere to call home and belong. “The truth is that your work is what keeps the out-of-home care sector ticking. Your commitment to supporting the children in your care is what makes the difference during a very raw and challenging time in these young lives,” she said.
Anchor board chair Dr Josh Fergeus grew up with foster carers as parents and became one himself as an adult. (Supplied) “You’re someone to champion and celebrate them and remind them how unique and incredible they are. Or sometimes, just as importantly, help them to feel like they fit in.” Recognising the whole family effort that’s required when someone becomes a foster or kinship carer, Ms Tucker said not only do biological children play “a vital part”, but they also learn to carry the baton of care and compassion. “They carry the best values into the future, en-
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Foster and kinship carers are integral to Anchor Community Care’s work in the outer east, ensuring children remain safe, loved, and supported in their communities. That’s why acknowledging and appreciating their kindness and commitment to young people was a necessary celebration in Anchor’s 50th year of operation. Bringing around 80 foster and kinship carers together on Thursday 22 October for an evening of dinner, drinks and a little bit of dancing at the Chinside Park Country Club was a way of saying thank you. Anchor chief executive Heidi Tucker said when looking back on 50 years, care families truly were part of “Anchor’s DNA from the very beginning”. “It’s incredible to think about all the people who have called themselves an Anchor Foster Carer and supported children and young people across five decades,” she said. Since 2010, Anchor has offered kinship care, helping to ensure children can stay within their family network or community. Ms Tucker said these children and young
suring that long after we’re gone, our community will still have people who stand up and believe that all children deserve safe and happy homes,” she said. She pointed to the experience of newly appointed board chair Dr Josh Fergeus, who was first introduced to foster care by his parents and went on to become a foster carer himself. He explored the wellbeing of children in the care system for his PhD and shared some of his own experiences on Thursday night. Although an appreciation dinner for the carers, Ms Tucker said this work was not possible without the managers, team leaders and case managers who dedicate their time and effort every day to building an environment of support. Ms Tucker said the legacy created by each and every carer over 50 years of Anchor contributed to changing the future for children and young people in care across generations. “Your work shapes society for the better in enormous ways. “You’re a part of something that has spanned generations and will continue to have an impact for generations to come. “Thank you for the work you do. It’s big work. Lifetime big.”
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Zine fair draws near By Gabriella Vukman Healesville will celebrate creativity, independent publishing and community connections this Saturday, 31 October, with the return of the Healesville Zine Fair offering free workshops, local stories, comics, poetry and live music. Hosted by Yarra Valley FM 99.1, the free community event will take place at the Memo and run from 11am to 8pm, bringing together almost 50 zine and comic makers alongside activities for people of all ages. The fair will feature workshops in zine and comic making, poetry and public speaking, as well as a Dungeons and Dragons room where visitors can learn to play the game. A free youth concert hosted by Threshold will run from 2pm to 5pm in the foyer, featuring young artists Dovetailing, Sylvia in the Pocket, Centrifuge and Undefined. Healesville Library is supporting the event with a free zine-making workshop, while also showcasing the work of local primary school students through the Canberra Zine Machine, which arrived at the library ahead of the fair. Zines made by St Brigid’s students who participated in a zine-making programme ahead of the festival will be placed in the Zine Machine for sale, with all contributions to go towards local charity groups and organisations. Library team leader Katja Gurney said the event’s community focus is one of its strongest features. “The way the children are creating zines about community projects and community organisations and are then selling them to raise money for those projects and organisations is great for the community.” “This project is very much in line with Your Library’s priorities.” Ms Gurney said she was looking forward to welcoming visitors to the library and seeing the student-created publications shared with the wider community. “We’re very proud to host the Zine Machine itself.” “It’s been a bit of an honour for it to come all the way from where it’s been to Healesville, so the community should definitely come and have a look.” The school program was developed by Cora Zon, producer and co-host of Yarra Valley FM’s ZINE program, to give students practical experience in publishing and broadcasting while connecting them with local organisations. Students from St Brigid’s Primary School have interviewed community groups including The Good Market, the Lions Club and the St Brigid’s Care Group for radio, before creating their own zines about the organisations. Grade 6 teacher Claire Papronis said students had embraced the program, which involved learning how to fold paper into booklets before developing their own publications. “The first time they did it, they made zines about anything they wanted, to get used to creating and making them personal.” “The second time Cora came, they each chose a charity group, and created a scene about it,” she said. “it was really fun, and they were all engaged.” Ms Papronis said the project also helped students learn about the work of charities and community organisations. “The zine programme is really beneficial as it enables the students to learn about different local charities.” For Grade 6 student Genevieve, the project
1812 Theatre to be illuminated in a new light
Head down to the the Memo for this year’s Zine Fair! (Daniel Hobiera).
The students of St Brigid’s will be placing their zines in the Zine Machine at Healesville library. (Gabriella Vukman: 586877). offered an opportunity to combine her interest in arts and crafts with a local cause. She chose to create a zine about the Lions Club bookshop, which allows people to donate items they no longer use so others can make use of them. “I quite like op shopping,” she said. Genevieve included information about the kinds of items people might find at op shops, alongside personal details and writing about the bookshop. “I like doing arts and crafts and stuff, so I really enjoyed the zine-making programme.” Zine Fair founder Cora Zon said the collaboration between schools, the library and community radio was designed to help young people discover local organisations while giving those groups a platform to share their work. “I really like the idea of people finding out about local community groups through students
because I think it’s more fun and engaging and I love the intergenerational aspect of it as well.” She said the project allowed students and community groups to connect in ways that might not otherwise happen. “I love seeing the students in the radio station speaking to people who who are part of the organizing of these community groups.” “The community groups love it and the students engage with it in a different way.” Ms Zon said she hoped visitors will leave with a better understanding of independent publishing and the creative opportunities available in their own community. “I hope that people can really see and understand the power of people publishing or have fun and learn something new and engage with things that they might not have known even existed.” The Healesville Zine Fair is the second event of its kind, with Ms Zon aiming to build a stronger regional gathering through bringing more local creators and workshop facilitators together. She said zines and community radio shared a common purpose: allowing people to tell their own stories outside traditional media channels. “I’d like more people to get involved with community radio because there’s such a great opportunity.” “It’s really fun if you have a niche interest in any topic whatsoever you can do a radio program about it or you can make a zine about it and I think you should do both.” The Healesville Zine Fair will run on Saturday, October 31, from 11am to 8pm. Entry, workshops and the youth concert are free. The full program is available at healesvillezinefair.org.
Toolangi Music afternoon By Gabriella Vukman Music and poetry will come together in Toolangi on Sunday 8 November as musician Maggie Somerville launches The Singing Garden, a new CD celebrating the 150th anniversary of the birth of one of Australia’s best-loved poets, C.J. Dennis. The album features 13 poems from Dennis’s 1935 collection The Singing Garden, inspired by the birds that visited the ornamental garden he and his wife, Biddy, lovingly created at their Toolangi home. Somerville has set the poems to music, bringing Dennis’s distinctive verse to life through song. The concert will feature Maggie singing and playing guitar, accompanied by Stephen Whiteside and friends on a variety of instruments, including fiddle, mandolin, banjo, ukulele, bass 14 MAIL | Tuesday, 27 October, 2026
guitar, harp, flute, keyboards and percussion. Poetry readings and a short story from the collection will also feature in the afternoon’s entertainment. Born in Auburn, South Australia, in 1876, Dennis moved to Toolangi in 1908, where he lived for several years before achieving fame with The Songs of a Sentimental Bloke, published in 1915. Its humour, memorable characters and distinctly Australian language captured the nation’s imagination, with copies even finding their way into the trenches of the First World War. His sequel, The Moods of Ginger Mick, was also hugely popular. Dennis later worked for Melbourne’s Herald newspaper, producing daily verse on current events. Yet The Singing Garden remains a special tribute to his love of nature, featuring poems dedicated to 55 bird species. The CD launch and concert will be held at
Burrinja Theatre Future History Future History is a new ritual for a world in a constant state of flux. Nankivell and her collaborators locate the body within cycles of global uncertainty, extinction, conflict, epidemic, and catastrophic climate events to create a dance that thrives on the edge of oblivion. Illuminating the vulnerability and resilience implicit on life on Earth, Nankivell uses every facet of her physicality to embody everything from the jittering of microscopic organisms to seismic ecological shifts. Future History connects the personal and universal in a thrilling and urgent exploration of what it means to live here now, then, and in the future. Season: Saturday 28 November at 6.30pm. The 1812 Theatre New Façade The 1812 Theatre will restore he presence of its Ferntree Gully façade with a spectacular illuminated, eight-metre-wide Art Deco inspired marquee. For generations, The 1812 Theatre has brought people together through live performance. Each year, our volunteer-powered organisation presents at least six valued, high quality productions and creates opportunities for performers, directors, designers, technicians, front-of-house teams and young people to take part in theatre close to home. Yet our building does not currently announce that creative life with the visibility and sense of occasion it deserves. Inside the 1812 Theatre, lights will change that. We will restore the façade’s presence by installing an approximately eight metre-wide illuminated marquee above the main entrance. Its Art Deco-inspired design will recall the glamour and civic presence of 20th-century theatre while sitting in visual conversation with the Royal Hotel directly opposite. Featuring The 1812 Theatre’s name in lights and a changeable “Now Playing Panel”, it will make arrival at the theatre feel special before audiences even step inside. This is more than a façade upgrade. Strong street presence will help new audiences discover the theatre, make the entrance easier to identify after dark and give visitors and artists a visible symbol of pride in what they create together. It will strengthen the theatre’s ability to promote more Australian and community-made performances, grow attendance and remain suitable for future generations. HOW CAN YOU HELP: We’re asking our community to get behind our Restore The 1812 Put Theatre in Lights campaign through the Australian Cultural Fund. Every donation, large or small, will help us get closer to our $200,000 goal. Donations of $2 or more through the Australian Cultural Fund are tax-deductible. You can still make a difference by sharing or campaign with friends, family and fellow theatre lovers. With your support, we can make sure the 1812 Theatre continues to shine as a vibrant part in our community. Thank you for helping us put the theatre in the lights!
Locals can head to Toolangi on 8 November for an afternoon of free music. (File: 261818). The Singing Gardens Tearooms, 1694 Healesville-Kinglake Road, Toolangi, at 2pm on Sunday 8 November 2026. The event is free and afternoon tea will be provided. For enquiries, phone 0429 386 044.
A proposed mock up of the 1812 Theatre’s upgraded facade. (Supplied)
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Digital loans hit 4,000,000 By Gabriella Vukman Yarra Ranges library members are part of a growing digital reading audience, as the Boobook library consortium celebrates its four millionth digital loan through the Libby app. The milestone was reached on 14 October, with the borrowed title The Last Dance by Australian author Fiona McIntosh. The Boobook consortium brings together Your Library, Whitehorse Manningham Libraries and Yarra Plenty Regional Library, giving members access to a shared collection of e-books, audiobooks, digital magazines and other resources. Your Library technology and digital services lead Angus Cooke said digital borrowing helped people access library resources regardless of their location or internet connectivity. “The main selling point is that the library is always open even when we’re closed,” he said. “While our doors might be shut and you might not be able to get into a physical location, the digital library with Your Library is open 24-7.” Your Library recorded 1,107,263 loans through Libby in the 2025–26 financial year, an
increase of 13.5 per cent on the previous year. Its broader digital library, including online resources, borrowing and streaming for all ages, was accessed 1,754,375 times during the same period. The organisation has more than 400,000 members, with the Yarra Ranges accounting for 28 per cent of its total membership. Healesville Library has more than 13,000 members, while Yarra Junction Library has more than 15,000. Mr Cooke said for residents in the Yarra Ranges, digital borrowing can be particularly useful when travelling to a physical library is difficult or internet access is intermittent. Through Libby, members can download eligible titles when connected to the internet and read or listen to them later offline. “That might mean for some people they might visit somewhere where there is network connectivity once a week to potentially download items for the next week, whether that be magazines, e-books or e-audiobooks,” he said. According to Mr Cooke, physical libraries also remain important in regional communities, where branches often serve larger catchment ar-
eas than metropolitan libraries. “The biggest challenge for our outer eastern libraries is the service area.” “For those proximate metropolitan areas you will have libraries that are located within two or three kilometres of each other, compared to Yarra Junction and Healesville, which are significantly further away from each other,” he said. “The catchment areas for Healesville and Yarra Junction are really broad, as there are no libraries past those towns.” Mr Cooke said it is harder for outer metropolitan townships such as Warburton, which does not currently have a public library. Libraries also provide practical services, including printing for banking, medical appointments, applications and personal use, alongside community events that help residents connect with one another. “The main service that we can provide locals is printing, because the next closest printing facilities are over 30 minutes away,” Mr Cooke said. “The services you get at our metro libraries like Ringwood, Knox and Rowville are a lot different.” Mr Cooke said the organisation aimed to in-
crease digital usage by attracting new users and providing a diverse collection that catered to different interests. Your Library chief executive Dr Karina Lamb said the four million loan milestone reflected growing demand for accessible library services. “Reaching four million digital loans is an outstanding achievement and reflects the growing demand for accessible, flexible library services,” she said. “Through the Boobook partnership, we are providing our communities with greater choice and the freedom to enjoy books, audiobooks and other resources wherever they are.” Your Library is continuing to encourage residents to explore its digital collection, with staff available to help people set up devices and begin borrowing online. Although Your Library does not have a specific digital-loan target for 2027, its latest figures show continued growth in digital borrowing. Membership is free, and residents can sign up online to access resources immediately. To join, visit yourlibrary.vic.gov.au/join. To explore the digital collection, visit Your Library’s digital resources.
Yarra Junction celebrates Malcolm Cormack’s 90th birthday By Oliver Winn
He’s known as a “sincere gentleman” with a community-oriented mind. (Supplied) Malcolm Cormack (second from left) was surrounded by loving friends and family at the Yarra Centre. (Supplied) representing the block, which developed childcare services and youth events, and even ran the block’s own newspaper. Later in the 1970s, he worked on a program to establish a community television station in the western suburbs. “So that’s what I bring to Yarra Junction, having been in those places,” Mr Cormack said. Now, he’s a part of Glen’s Goldies, the Yarra Junction Ben’s Shed, and the Upper Yarra Spo-
ken Word club. “I value the contribution they make to the community, and I certainly value the contribution they make to me,” he said. He thanked Ms Adams for her friendship over the years. “She, over that time, has been a host and an organiser and a friend, and I am the recipient of many kindnesses from her, and I really thank her for the trouble she went to to celebrate my
ninetieth birthday,” he said. Ms Adams said everyone Mr Cormack had left an impact on was proud of the person he is. “Through all the good and bad, the happy and sad, and the up’s and down’s life has thrown at you, you have well and truly come out on top, so be very proud of where you are, and who you are right now, right here today. “You are an amazing man who has conquered your goals with style and class and we are all very proud to know you and be a friend. “May you have many more wonderful years of health, happiness and memories, and we pray God keeps you safe,” Ms Adams said.
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The Yarra Junction community celebrated Malcolm Cormack’s 90th birthday on Wednesday 14 October. Around 50 people gathered at the Yarra Centre for the birthday, expressing their love and care for Mr Cormack and looking back on his nine decades worth of life experiences. Mr Cormack, who’s been swimming twice a week as a member of Glen’s Goldies for over 11 years, was described as a “sincere gentleman” valued for his contributions to the community. Dawn Adams, a Glen’s Goldies volunteer leader, delivered a speech at the event thanking Mr Cormack and everyone associated with him for the special celebration. “Malcolm has always got a smile on his face and he is truly a special, warm, sincere gentleman to befriend. He is a very passionate and kind man, and he can be very diplomatic. “For 90 years Malcolm has lived and loved a great life with his family and friends, I know he has had some amazing adventures during this time and I am sure he has achieved many wonderful goals over these years,” Ms Adams said. And indeed he has. Mr Cormack spoke about the importance of community and the various projects he’s been involved with in his life. “What I suppose has been at the core of my life here in Yarra Junction has been the sense of community: what you find and what you can contribute to, the way in which having a sense of common identity really lifts living in a particular place,” Mr Cormack told the Star Mail. He first joined a community group in the 1960s when living in a housing commission block in Carlton. He became a part of a community group
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Tuesday, 27 October, 2026 | MAIL 15
OPINION
Talkies come to town Clayface By Bryn Jones The arrival of “talkies” in Healesville is associated principally with screenings at The Palais (adjacent to the Terminus Hotel) and the Memorial Hall, opened in 1924 in recognition of Healesville men (and women) who fought in World War I. Silent films had been shown in various locations in the district since 1918, and no doubt enjoyed in their various presentations by the local population. But locals were eager to welcome talkies which, it seemed, were very popular in other parts of Victoria, throughout Australia and worldwide. The almost plaintive cry was expressed by Healesville Progress Association on July 26, 1930, and quoted in the Healesville Guardian, “When are we to have talking pictures here?” He notes that Belgrave, Box Hill and other towns of importance already had them. Not only that but, heaven forbid! “Even our next-door neighbour Lilydale had them! We have a fine hall so why not talkies to attract people to it?” His plea, reflecting the general attitude of the locals, did not fall on deaf ears as in December 1930 the newspaper reported that “a definite move was being made towards establishing talkies in the town. It is authoritatively stated that Hoyts Pty Ltd has made negotiations regarding the Palais.”
Badger Creek Hall reportedly showed motion picture films a month before the Palais in Healesville. (File) The newspaper predicted that “a premier performance will probably be given on 15 December when a technicolour talking production will be screened.” The Palais itself followed this up with a halfpage newspaper advertisement for the forthcoming attraction: “100 per cent talkies Small towns have them, why not Healesville. The world famed tourist resort demands them! Note: Talkies in Healesville at last! A wonder show.” Then the films to be shown were listed. This was to be followed on New Year’s Eve by “a
colossal All-Talkie Program”. Despite all this, little Badger Creek Hall had upstaged the Palais by a month when motion pictures were shown in the hall for the first time on Wednesday evening to a packed house. A series of films was listed in the article in detail “all of the utmost educational and entertainment value, and it is such pictures that raise the level of the cinema.” The evening also included items by concert artists. However, not surprisingly, it was the two larger venues in Healesville that for a number of years following competed for patrons. But after 1944 films were not shown at the Palais, so the Memorial Hall became, in effect, Healesville’s only cinema. The Harvie Bros held the lease for many years and made many improvements to the interior of the building. But the person best known to generations of filmgoers in Healesville was Brian Luscombe, whose knowledge, experience and enthusiasm as a professional and “a film buff” covered the period from the mid-1960s to 2012. Film-goers in Healesville can now enjoy the latest films in a modern, comfortable venue, with new digital projection equipment, greatly improved seating arrangements, and considerably more comfortable conditions since the refurbishment of the hall was completed in 2012.
CARTOON
review: Best DCU
Clayface Starring Tom Rhys Harries, Naomi Ackie and Max Minghella MA15+ 4.5/5 Based on a villain from Batman comics, Clayface is a gripping body horror psychological thriller directed by James Watkins and cowritten by Mike Flanagan. Young actor Matt Hagen (Tom Rhys Harries) volunteers for an experimental medical procedure after a group of gangsters disfigure him, but begins mutating as the procedure goes awry. Harries is immediately likeable as Matt, which makes his traumatic shift into a bitter anti-hero all the more shocking. Clayface is extremely well-paced, rising smoothly from elation at Matt’s restored face to squirming unease over the complications to a quest for vengeance both viscerally satisfying and profoundly unsettling. The scenes of Matt confronting the people who wronged him are full of tense surprises, and feature some of the most inventive kills I’ve ever seen in a horror movie. Naomi Ackie offers a more sober presence as Caitlin Corr, the kind doctor overseeing Matt’s treatment and who develops complicated feelings for him. Matt’s transformations are realised through amazing prosthetics and solid CGI (with some occasionally wonky effects). Nearly every cast member has a fun fleeting double role thanks to Matt’s shapeshifting ability, and British comedian Rob Brydon has a surprising cameo as TV host Vic Chissler. Clayface has been compared to a masculine The Substance, but reminds me most of Sam Raimi’s icky 1990 superhero film Darkman, with its emphasis on volatile emotions and unstable fleshy disguises. Clayface also follows in the stair-dancing footsteps of Joker, since you are supposed to feel uncomfortable as Matt flourishes and gets his life back through violent darkness. By far the best film in James Gunn’s new DC Comics film franchise (but a completely self-contained experience), Clayface is a taut, grisly, cleverly-written character study with a remarkable lead performance from Tom Rhys Harries, and is playing in most Victorian cinemas.
100 top crops you can grow review: Inspiring garden book Those aspiring greenthumbs learning from YouTube gardening videos would know Mark Valencia, host of the popular channel Self Sufficient Me. His famous motto: “You don’t have to be selfsufficient in everything, just be self-sufficient in something.” A retired soldier, Valencia started gardening because he wanted to save money by growing as much food at home as possible. With his wife working full-time, he took over household duties while trying to provide for the family in other ways. But he soon realised gardening has other benefits. “I discovered by accident that gardening also helped me relax. It really calmed me and helped with the PTSD which I’d acquired...during my time in the military.” Still other benefits include the improved mental health, the physical exercise, the vitamin D from
16 MAIL | Tuesday, 27 October, 2026
PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN sunlight, and the organic and pesticide-free food. Not to mention a beautiful and productive garden to be proud of. “Possibly the best thing about growing your own fruit and veggies if you have children is getting more diversity into their diet,” Valencia writes.
“Eating food grown in your own backyard is a powerful and positive message. Because kids see, they pick and they eat. If they’re inquisitive – and most kids are – they get excited about food.” So, based on his 20 plus years of experience as a gardener – and with the help of dietitian Kate Di Prima – Valencia presents his top 20 food crops in five categories, “most of which you can grow wherever you live”. The message is you, too, can grow your own food, if you are willing to devote a bit of time, effort and ingenuity. Valencia’s five categories of food crops are vegetables, fruits and “fruitables”, herbs/spices, unusual food crops, and “I grew so you don’t have to!”. Each crop comes with a “Why?”, how-togrow instructions, top tips, and its uses and nutritional power status. While many of these food crops are already grown in kitchen gardens all across Austra-
lia, there are still delightful surprises to be found. For example, who would know New Guinea bean is actually a type of Italian gourd that is sometimes known as Cucuzza squash? And what exactly is a jaboticaba, jicama, brukale, or Chinese potato? Perhaps the most interesting category contains those food crops that Valencia finds most frustrating to grow and/or eat. It may be impossible to grow broad beans successfully in Brisbane, even in winter, but: “The point is, you never know until you try and there is a tonne to be learnt through experimentation.” This is a very “Valencia” book, full of hardearned, evidence-based and diverse knowledge and skills, plenty of wit and fun, and the sort of quirky yet endearing Aussieness we are all so familiar with. Worth a read.
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Tuesday, 27 October, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 17
PROPERTY OF THE WEEK
CONTEMPORARY HILLS LIVING WITH STYLE, SPACE AND EXCEPTIONAL ENTERTAINING SHOWCASING an impressive combination of contemporary style, generous proportions and beautiful natural surrounds, this stunning five bedroom residence delivers the ultimate Hills lifestyle. Set on a substantial 1,354m² (approx.) block, the home has been thoughtfully updated to offer modern comfort, effortless entertaining and exceptional versatility, all within a peaceful and private setting. Step inside to discover a warm and inviting interior, where soaring vaulted ceilings, beautiful timber flooring and expansive windows create a wonderful sense of light and space. The stylish kitchen forms the heart of the home, featuring sleek cabinetry, quality appliances, generous bench space and excellent storage, flowing seamlessly through to the dining and living areas. With all new double glazed windows and ducted heating and cooling throughout, year round comfort has been carefully considered. Accommodation is equally impressive, offering five bedrooms across multiple levels, providing flexibility for growing families, guests or those working from home. Two bathrooms service the home, including a spectacularly renovated main bathroom that is a true standout. Featuring striking green tiling, elegant finishes and a stunning skylight above the shower, this beautifully designed space brings a touch of luxury to everyday living. Outside is where this property truly shines. An expansive covered outdoor entertaining area provides the perfect setting for hosting family and friends, complete with multiple seating zones and a picturesque outlook across the beautiful rear yard. A large private courtyard offers yet another inviting space to relax and unwind, while the established gardens and natural surrounds create a wonderful sense of tranquillity and seclusion. Adding further appeal is the enormous double garage, a rare and highly desirable feature for the area, complemented by an abundance of additional off street parking. With generous storage, versatile living spaces and an impressive allotment, this is a property that offers both lifestyle and practicality in equal measure. Perfectly positioned in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges, within easy reach of Tecoma’s village shops, train station, schools and the vibrant Belgrave township, this exceptional home delivers the perfect balance of convenience and peaceful Hills living. A truly impressive family sanctuary where contemporary sophistication meets the charm and tranquillity of the Hills.
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 85 Terrys Avenue, TECOMA Description: 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,250,000 - $1,340,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Brad Conder 0422 639 115 and Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 9754 6888
18 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 27 October, 2026
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HOME FOCUS
MODERN COMFORT WITH SPACE AND STYLE 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 - it’s a great place to call home. ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 43 Shirley Crescent, WOORI YALLOCK Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom Price: $730,000-$780,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: David Carroll 0419 539 320, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION, 5967 1277
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Available heights: 1250mm, 1100mm & 950mm HEAVY DUTY 4MM GALVANISED WIRE mailcommunity.com.au
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HOME FOCUS
A CHARMING THREE BEDROOM HOME AND YOUR COTTAGE GARDEN DREAM DREAMING of a country change? This could be the one you’ve been waiting for. Set on over half an acre of established gardens, this charming country property offers a wonderful opportunity to embrace a slower pace of life, where days are spent pottering in the garden, picking fresh fruit and vegetables, and gathering armfuls of flowers throughout the seasons. Meander through the delightful cottage gardens, discover the established orchard and veggie patches, and enjoy the endless possibilities this green-thumb’s paradise has to offer. 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. The home itself has a lovely, welcoming feel, with beautiful mountain views adding to its peaceful country charm. 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. Step outside onto the decking and enjoy your morning coffee in the sunshine, surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of your own established garden sanctuary. A property full of charm, character and country appeal, offering space to grow, room to potter and the opportunity to create your own little slice of paradise close to all that Warburton has to offer. ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 52 Donna Buang Road, WARBURTON Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 garage Price: $730,000 - $780,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Rebecca Doolan 0401 832 068, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION, 5967 1277
20 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 27 October, 2026
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HOME FOCUS
GIRAWEEN - A FAMILY HOME AND LIFESTYLE AWAITS SET against the stunning backdrop of the Dandenong Ranges National Park, with filtered mountain views and set on 5324m2 of colourful flowering gardens, “Girraween” is a property that defines versatile lifestyle living. Tucked into one of the most picturesque pockets of the Hills, this beautifully updated family home boasts a rare opportunity with its space, serenity and seclusion. Thoughtfully designed with generous proportions and modern updates throughout, the floorplan caters perfectly to relaxed family living. A highlight of the home is the updated open plan kitchen, seamlessly connecting to three distinct living zones, each offering its own charm and functionality: A step down lounge with vaulted ceilings plus access to the expansive deck , the light filled sunroom, perfect as a home office or reading nook and the bonus of a rumpus room / office, ideal as a play area, hobby space or teen retreat. The main bedroom, complete with stunning ensuite, is privately positioned at the rear of the home to take full advantage of the tranquil outlook - a true sanctuary at the end of each day, whilst the other bedrooms are privately located together off the hallway. Adding exceptional value and versatility is the separate studio, perfect for an amazing work from home office, artists retreat or a great teenagers hang out space. It comes complete with: • Original polished floorboards • Spacious rooms • Split system heating/cooling • Large picture windows framing garden views • Decking
For parking, you will find both a double carport plus a single carport with the addition of extra space for trailers, trucks and caravans off the circular driveway. Whether you’re accommodating a growing family, hosting guests, or running a creative business, this property offers excellent parking no matter what your needs require. For those who have eco /green features on their must have list, there are two air source heat pumps that supply hot water to the property along with a 6.2kw solar system. For temperature control, there are multiple split systems throughout plus the charm of a beautiful wood fire making this home efficient and functional all year round. Set on a stunning, usable block surrounded by lush gardens and spectacular outlooks, “Girraween” is more than a home - it’s a lifestyle. A rare chance to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of the hills, just moments from local villages, walking trails, cafes, and schools. ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 39 Grantulla Road, KALLISTA Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 garage Price: $1,050,000 - $1,150,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 9754 6888
12909268-KA43-26
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Tuesday, 27 October, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 21
HOME FOCUS
SOPHISTICATED FAMILY LIVING WITH SPACE, STYLE AND VERSATILITY ON 3,899M2 SHOWCASING an exceptional combination of contemporary elegance, generous proportions and outstanding versatility, this impeccable residence delivers a lifestyle of comfort and sophistication in a beautiful Menzies Creek setting. Privately positioned at the end of a sweeping driveway on a magnificent 3,899m² (approx.) allotment, this impressive property offers an idyllic retreat for families seeking space, privacy and quality Hills living. Designed to impress, the upper level reveals a stunning open-plan living and dining domain, complemented by a beautifully appointed gourmet kitchen featuring stone benchtops, a 900mm gas cooker, walkin pantry and excellent storage. Perfectly balancing everyday functionality with effortless entertaining, expansive bifold doors open onto a superb covered deck, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living and a wonderful setting to entertain family and friends throughout the seasons. Accommodation is equally impressive, with four generously proportioned bedrooms on the upper level, including a luxurious master suite complete with a walk-in robe and stylish ensuite featuring a double vanity and rain shower. Polished timber floors, ducted heating and cooling, and quality finishes throughout further enhance the home’s refined yet welcoming atmosphere, while a well-appointed laundry with drying cupboard adds everyday practicality. Adding another dimension to this remarkable property is the fully appointed lower level, offering an expansive rumpus room and additional bedroom, study or studio space. Complete with timber flooring, an openplan design and its own separate access, this versatile area provides the ultimate teenager’s retreat, home office or private space for extended family. The flexibility on offer is truly exceptional, allowing the home to effortlessly adapt to changing family needs. Outside, the expansive grounds provide a wonderful sense of seclusion and freedom, while a massive double garage, additional single carport and generous driveway ensure outstanding parking and storage options. Complete with a 6-star energy rating and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Dandenong Ranges, this is a rare opportunity to secure a substantial family sanctuary where luxury, lifestyle and versatility come together in perfect harmony. A truly impressive Hills property offering space to grow, room to entertain and a lifestyle to envy. Inspection is sure to impress! ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 252A Belgrave-Gembrook Road, MENZIES CREEK Description: 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 garage Price: $1,190,000 - $1,295,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Brad Conder 0422 639 115 and Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE, 9754 6888
22 MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE | Tuesday, 27 October, 2026
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Real Estate you can trust! We’re here to help.
8DalkeithCrescent,Belgrave
39KaolaStreet,Belgrave
252aBelgrave-Gembrookrd,MenziesCreek
3 Bed | 2 Bath | 2 Car | 1239m2
3 Bed | 1 Bath | 2 Car | 1015m2
5 Bed | 3 Bath | 3 Car | 1015m2
For Sale $770,000 - $820,000
For Sale $710,000 - $780,000
For Sale $ 1,190,000- $ 1,295,000
Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442
Brad Conder 0422 639 115
Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442
Jonathan Arad 0490 393 328
10Banoolroad,Selby
11lyndallroad,BelgraveSouth
Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554
386Glenfernrd,Upwey
4 Bed | 2 Bath | 4 Car | 1826m2
5 Bed | 3 Bath | 2 Car | 1003m2
4 Bed | 2 Bath | 2 Car | 965m2
For Sale $1,150,000 - $1,240,000
For Sale $1,240,000 - $1,295,000
For Sale $1,350,000-$1,485,000
Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442
Brad Conder 0422 639 115
Brad Conder 0422 639 115
Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554
Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554
03 9754 6888 office@chandlerandco.com.au 1689 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave Vic 3160 mailcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 27 October, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 23
HOME FOCUS
“EAGLE HILL” - 21 ACRES OF PRIVACY, VIEWS AND VERSATILITY SET on approximately 21 acres in a peaceful and highly private setting, this outstanding lifestyle property delivers the rare combination of two dwellings, breathtaking views and exceptional infrastructure for relaxed country living. Positioned on an elevated site and bathed in natural light, the main residence captures sweeping rural vistas and has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate a growing family. Multiple living zones provide flexibility and space, with a central timber kitchen and meals area flowing seamlessly to a generous lounge as well as a separate dining and sitting room. The home offers six bedrooms in total, including a master with ensuite, while the remaining bedrooms are well serviced by the family bathroom. A wide front verandah enhances the home’s appeal, offering the perfect spot to unwind, entertain or simply take in the tranquil outlook. Privately positioned nearby, the charming two bedroom Dependant Relative cottage is fully self-contained and ideal for extended family. With its own living areas, kitchen, bedrooms and deck, it offers comfort and independence while still being part of the wider property. The land itself is well set up and beautifully maintained, featuring multiple paddocks, electric fencing, an arena with flood lights, spring-fed dam, water tanks, cattle yards with race and extensive shedding including a large barn/workshop, hay shed and garages. Whether you’re seeking a hobby farm, equestrian pursuits, alpaca farming, or simply space and serenity, this property provides endless opportunity. Offering panoramic views, true privacy and outstanding versatility, this is a rare opportunity to secure a substantial acreage holding in a tightly held location, just a short drive to surrounding townships. ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 81 Jardine Road, MACCLESFIELD Description: 8 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 5 garage Price: On application Inspect: Inspection by private appointment Contact: Justin Barrot 0438 683 781 and Brittany Barry 0412 861 094, BARRY PLANT EMERALD, 5968 4522
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10 WILLIAM STREET EMERALD
28 FERN GLADE DRIVE EMERALD
3 LAUREL LANE EMERALD
BEAUTIFUL FAMILY HOME
CHARMING MUD BRICK
MAGNIFICENT COUNTRY ESTATE
5A
4A
6A
3B
2B
3D
4B
1C
6D
JUSTIN BARROT 0438 683 781
BRITTANY BARRY 0412 861 094
LANA MAHER 0408 535 075
BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522
BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522
BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522
20 FAIRWAY ROAD EMERALD
38-40 BELGRAVE GEMBROOK ROAD COCKATOO
5 DUKE STREET EMERALD
SPACIOUS FAMILY LIVING
PRIVATE HILLS SANCTUARY ON 2 ACRES
CHARM & CONTEMPORARY COMFORT
4A
4A
3A
3B
2B
1C
6D
1B
1D
JUSTIN BARROT 0438 683 781
LANA MAHER 0408 535 075
JUSTIN BARROT 0438 683 781
BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522
BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522
BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522
62 NEVILLE STREET COCKATOO
88 KIRKPATRICKS ROAD MACCLESFIELD
433-437 BELGRAVE GEMBROOK RD EMERALD
REIMAGINE & REAP THE REWARDS
ARCHITECTURAL EXCELLENCE
PRIVATE HALF-ACRE RETREAT
2A
4A
4A
1B
1D
3B
1C
6D
2B
JUSTIN BARROT 0438 683 781
JUSTIN BARROT 0438 683 781
JUSTIN BARROT 0438 683 781
BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522
BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522
BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522
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Tuesday, 27 October, 2026 | MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE 25
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Robbie, Gavan and Janet
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26 MAIL | Tuesday, 27 October, 2026
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Backup (coll) (3) Competitor (10) Dozes (4,3) Holiday destination (7) Hallways (9) Blue printing colour (4) Tony Hawk’s ride (10) Uncommon (4) Drunk (4) Pad of drawing paper (10) Storm (4) Rhythmic vibration (9) Rainfall events (7) US singer, dancer and actor, Fred – (7) Displaces (10) Emergency rooms (abbr) (3)
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No. 313
F I G H T S L A Y S C A V E D P I V O T A G I L E A G R E E C L U M P O D O U R S E R U M E A T C R U D E A D O T O E S O L D E R T A S T E G L E N A S T R I D E WA R S T A Y I D O L L A T C H T OW D I N E F L A G P O L E A N A E M I A E N A M E L S P A R A L L E L B Y T E E N D S L E P T I S L E E S K Y L A P C H O R T L E H O P E A B O U T W E L L E D S T E R N B O A A V O E R R A D O B E L I N G O P E R I L R E N E W O C E A N E A G L E W E D G E D R E S S T R E E S
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
QUICK CROSSWORD
1
No. 313
S U B C O N T E S T A N T A D F U T K E A S E A S I D E N O D S O F F D D C T K N R M C Y A N C O R R I D O R S A E L W E W R A R E S K A T E B O A R D T M R E P E S K E T C H B O O K L U S H D A E S E E R A G E P U L S A T I O N R F E I R T D I A S T A I R E S H OW E R S M R T T Y V R N E R S T R A N S P O S E S
SUDOKU
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NEWS
Celebrating YOUth Awards Community members are being encouraged to celebrate great young people, with nominations now open for Yarra Ranges Council’s Celebrating YOUth Awards. The awards, which will be presented at an event in November, recognise the efforts of young people under several categories: ■ Resilience and Perseverance ■ Young Entrepreneur ■ Arts, Music and Culture ■ School or Community Improvement, and ■ Passionate Advocate Nominations are now open and will close at 11.59pm on Saturday 31 October. Yarra Ranges Mayor Richard Higgins said the awards were a great chance to acknowledge and thank young people who go the extra mile. “We have an incredible community here in the Yarra Ranges, including wonderful, passionate and engaged young people committed to making a difference,” Cr Higgins said. “So many young people are honing their skills in arts and music, breaking into the market with small business ideas, improving the community around them, advocating for positive change, and showing resilience in the face of challenging circumstances. “These awards are a chance to let them know that we think what they are doing is incredible, to encourage them to keep going, and to say thank you on behalf of the community. “You can nominate an individual or a group, and the nominee can be a friend, family member or just someone in the community whose work you admire. “There are so many amazing young people in the community who deserve recognition, so I hope everyone reading this takes some time to nominate someone great.” To be eligible for an award, a nominee must be aged between 12 and 25 and either live, work, study or volunteer in the Yarra Ranges. Once nominations close, a panel of community members will select a winner and run-
Nominate an inspiring young person from the Yarra Ranges. (Yarra Ranges Council) ner-up for each category. The Celebrating YOUth Awards Night will be held on 19 November and is supported by the Victorian Government through the En-
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SPORT
Manny takes Twilight honours
The Wednesday Night Barefoot Bowls Jack Attack Triples Competition needs one more team. (Supplied)
By Ron Hottes Well, we may have endured a fairly wet weekend, but last week provided some beautiful golfing weather for most of the week. And didn’t the players make the most of it! Monday Ladies: The Monday girls certainly enjoyed the sunshine, with Annelies Duivenvoorden claiming the top voucher with 18 very solid points. Linda Lay had her best score for quite a while, finishing with 17 points to take the runner-up prize, a pretty gutsy effort by Linda, considering her rehab progress saps her strength somewhat. More and more ladies are joining the Monday field, so we’re hoping to see those numbers continue to grow. It’s great to see! Wednesday Midweek Stableford: Wednesday’s Stableford competition produced some terrific scores, with Robin Wood taking the honours with an excellent 40 points. Deborah Hamment was hot on Robin’s heels, finishing with 39 points to claim the runner-up prize. My friend Deb must have been wondering what more she needed to do to secure the win, but Robin just managed to edge her out. Better luck next time, Deb! The nearest-the-pin winners were Alan Macdonald on the third, Glenn Forbes on the fifth, Alan Macdonald again on the ninth, and no one on either the 12th or 15th, according to Myscore results. Well done, Alan, on collecting two of the prizes. Thursday Twilight: We’re now into the third week of Twilight, and that young, talented man, Manny Humphreys, seems to be settling in very nicely indeed. Manny led the way with 23 fabulous points. Well done, Manny! Your dad would be very proud of you. Danny Fox was close behind with 22 points to take the runner-up prize, while Steuart Hawke continued his recent good form with 21 points, and that would please Ronda also!! The nearest-the-pin honours went to Jaiden Lever on the third, while Chris Leighton had a particularly good night, collecting both the fifth and ninth. Great effort, Chris! Saturday Ambrose – Warburton Back-to day:
Warby bowls’ rocky start gets rockier By Garry Lewis
Robin Wood led the way in the Stableford competition with 40 points. (File) Unfortunately, Saturday’s field was a little light on numbers, partly due to the weather and probably because of a few late withdrawals. Those who did play enjoyed the Ambrose foursomes, with the winning combination of Josh Hin, Robert Ferguson, Daryl Ward and Jeff Sharp producing a sensational net score of 48.25. I am reliably informed that Fergie and Dazza combined very well and didn’t argue once - a pleasant change. They comfortably took the honours ahead of the runners-up, Clint Toohey, Georgie Houniet, Shane Campbell and James Campion, who finished with a net 51.62. Congratulations to both teams on some excellent scoring. Unfortunately, I don’t have any nearest-thepin results recorded for Saturday, so I can’t give those winners a mention this week. Masters Pennant Update: We’re now more than halfway through the Masters Pennant season, with our Warbie boys fielding two teams. The experienced Noel Cross captains one team, which has recorded one win and three loss-
es so far. However, with two home games still to come, there’s plenty of opportunity to turn things around. Anything can happen in this event, depending on the lopsided draw! The other team, captained by Ian “Junior” Garside, has been enjoying a stronger run, with one win, one draw and one loss before picking up another victory on Friday. I believe that result has taken them to the top of the ladder, so things are looking very promising. I’ll bring you more details over the next couple of weeks as we approach the finals. Hopefully, we can see at least one of our teams make it through! A Few Reminders: The Club Championships are getting closer, so now’s the time to get your paperwork in. You’ve only got the early part of this week to get everything sorted, so don’t leave it too late! And finally, it looks like we’re in for a cooler week, with a few showers forecast each day. Despite the changeable weather, the course at Warburton is in magnificent condition, so let’s hope those good scores keep coming. Enjoy your golf this week, everyone, and I’ll be back with more news soon.
Mixed results with struggles on the green By Elly B, Mark C and David E The first round of the Midweek competition got off to a great start with both teams securing wins. Division 6 played their first combined Junction/Warburton Pennant game at Warburton and it was like playing Boronia at a neutral venue as there were only 5 Warby players. Each rink was close and at the break they were leading by 4 shots overall. Malcolm, Reg, Jessie and Paul had a tight game all day, with 4 ends to play they were leading by 2 shots, but Boronia came home strong to finish 19/25. Len, Bev, Jane and Graham also had a tight contest. We don’t know what they had for lunch but it did the trick and they ran out to a convincing win 27-14. Jill, Michael, Kevin and Mark had a hard day trailing 6-12 at the break. They came out ready to fight back and by the last end the scores were level thanks to the tremendous team effort especially the two players playing their first ever Pennant game Kevin and Michael. Fortunately, they were able to get 1 on the last end to win 19-18 to give an overall winning score of 65-57. Division 4 played at home against Heathmont Ian, Sue, Carol and Howard playing steadily from the start slowly building momentum to secure a 33-18 win. Mark F, David, Graham and Grant had a much tighter contest frustrating the opposition in the process but came out on top with a 23-18 shot win. The third team wasn’t as fortunate and after starting off well and with some great shots being played, the game almost level at the break the Heathmont team found their rhythm and steadily pulled ahead to win by 7 shots. The Overall team result was 72-60 win for the Eagles. Round One
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First-time pennant players Kevin and Michael in the combined midweek Yarra Junction/Warburton team. (Supplied) done and dusted with two good wins. The weekend’s Round Two games, both away games, were expected to be challenging with both being played on slower heavier grass greens with a little bit of rain in the mix. In Division Five, Heatherdale had had a strong away win in Round One and were now on home ground. Adrian’s team got off to a good start but by the break the game was fairly even. Heatherdale finished off well to win by 7 points. Some great shots by the Eagles’ skipper prevented a greater loss. Jason’s team had to play catch up after a 6 against early on in the game saw them at 10-0 af-
ter the first few ends, by break they clawed back to 12-9 but Heatherdale played a better second half to win 14-25. Marty’s team were steady all through and the game was even going into the last end. 4 shots up to the opposition ended their dream rink win 1519. Howard’s team also had a 7-point deficit by games end despite some great bowls being put down and a dead end being forced. Heatherdale were the overall winners 60-89. A good learning experience for the Eagles as the season progresses. For many in the Division 7 team it seems the takeaway memory was the enjoyment of the match and of the company of the players rather than the result. At half time things seemed about 55 per cent in Boronia’s favour. While one team won its game with a commendable last few ends recovery, the margin was not enough and overall Boronia won by 84 - 59. Although no lose is good at least the individual losses were not huge ones. Our players remained in good spirits even though not everyone adapted to the weight needed. Saying of the day was “It’s just your weight”. An alcohol-free community board games night runs on the last Monday of the month. Oaks Day event for the community on 5November. A three 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 Yarra Junction Bowling Club Facebook page.
The Warburton Bowls Club had mixed results the past week as the Summer Pennant Season continued with two victories and two losses. Warburton One v Heathmont Two: Warburton One’s rocky start to the season continued with a loss to a strong Heathmont Two side at home on Saturday, 60 shots to 84. In constantly changing weather conditions, two rinks thrived, while two struggled. At one point the scoreboard showed a mere four shot deficit, but Heathmont steadied and the Burras could not maintain the necessary pressure. A recurring problem has been an inability to bowl in a consistent fashion. Rink scores were: A. Donohue 15/20, T. Appleton 7/31, P. McConachy 17/14 and C. Neale 21/19. They now play Vermont South 2 away this weekend in another serious challenge. Warburton Two v Eastwood Golf One: Warburton Two played Eastwood Golf One at home. The home side handled the weather conditions a lot better than the visitors to record a solid victory, two rinks up, one draw and one loss in the 88 shots to 63 overall victory. Scores were close at the break, before the Burras pulled away in the second half with some determined bowling and great spirit. The rink scores were: S. Darwall 28/14, R. Bartlett 10/17, G. Lewis 31/13 and M. Van Meurs 19/19. They also travel away to play Vermont South Four this weekend aiming to continue their improvement. The Midweek Warburton One side, newly promoted to top tier Division one this season, faced a formidable challenge away to last year’s section winners, the large and powerful Whittlesea Club. Playing their top side, the Burras, however, performed admirably and lost only narrowly by a slender three shots, 56 to 59. Chris Boland’s rink was the stand-up performer and nearly dragged the team over the line. A loss is a loss, but it was an encouraging start to the season, showing that even with several key players absent, Warburton can compete with the best. Rink scores were: C. Boland 29/15, G. Walsh 15/22 and A. Dostie 12/22. They look forward to playing Eltham One at home this week. It was a great start to the season for the combined Warburton/Yarra Junction Midweek team winning two out of three rinks and defeating Boronia Three at Warburton by eight shots, 65 to 57. The scores on all rinks were close with the overall lead changing many times over the day. Congratulations to Michael Woolley (Warb.) and Kevin Hince (Y.J.) on their first ever Pennant games. Also, Happy Birthday to Malcolm Paul (Warb.) and Jessie Carney (Y.J.) who both celebrated their birthdays. The rink scores were M. Cookney 19/18, G. Wynd 27/14 and P. Burke 19/25. They next play Croydon Six away and look forward to continuing their current form. The extremely popular Wednesday Night Barefoot Bowls Jack Attack Triples Competition commences on Wednesday 4 November from 6.30pm for a 7pm start. At the time of preparing this report, one more team is still required to ensure a full complement of sixteen. Contact the club by email or text a message to 0473 653 137 and someone will contact you accordingly. Social Bowls continues each Monday from 12 midday.
Tuesday, 27 October, 2026 | MAIL 29
SPORT
Kerst’s 4/9 cleans up By Suzanne Tyzack First XI – Day 2 v Wantirna: With 160 to defend, the bowling innings started poorly, with Wantirna South racing to 0/70 before Tarkyn Nicolandos claimed the first wicket, quickly followed by a run-out and a wicket from Josh Handasyde. Another wicket each from Josh and Tarkyn had Wantirna South 5/89 and well and truly on the ropes. Unfortunately, some borderline umpiring decisions and fielding mistakes saw Healesville not taking the opportunities presented to them, and Wantirna South were able to crawl home, six down, in the 65th over. Tarkyn Nicolandos (3/32 off 15) and Josh Handasyde (2/24 off 22) were easily the pick of the bowlers. Back to the drawing board as Healesville need to find a way into the winners’ list. Second XI – Day 2 Healesville 228 dec. defeated St Andrews 138: Healesville’s Second XI had a good win, making 228 before declaring and sending St Andrews back in to try for an outright win. However, Healesville could only manage to get two wickets before the rain halted play. Notable performances from the weekend were Liam English (29), Hudson Semple (24*), Max Wallace (1/5), and Jack Drummond (1/16). Third XI – Day 2 Healesville 100 defeated by 190: Fourth XI – Healesville 8/154 defeated by Lilydale 3/158: Healesville’s Fourth XI took a trip down to Lilydale, won the toss, and decided to bat first. Kael Senti (47) and Moss Fawdry (23) opened the batting and got the visitors off to a great start, with Senti batting 34 overs of a possible 36, setting up a great innings total of 232. Brad Reid (45) and Brenton Damrow (43) were also notable contributors with the bat. Healesville’s opening bowlers, Summer Caldicott (0/11 from seven overs) and Tully Ellis (0/22 from five overs), got Healesville off to a really tight start. With tight bowling the theme of the day along with great fielding, Healesville’s Fourth XI were able to keep Lilydale to 7/149 to get their first win for the season. U16-1 – Day 2 Healesville 164 defeated Mooroolbark 115: With only 120 runs left on the board to defend and 10 wickets to get, Healesville needed to crack in. Endo Gotch got them off to the perfect start, taking two early wickets of the overnight batsmen, and the innings snowballed from there. Summer Caldicott took two wickets before Mika Kerst (4/9 off 6 overs) and Jaiden Lever (2/5) cleaned up the rest of the Mooroolbark lineup to bowl them out for 114, 50 runs short. An outstanding bowling effort after a not-so-scintillating batting performance the week prior. U16-2 – Day 2 Healesville 8/214 defeated Hoddles Creek 204: Healesville’s U16-2s travelled back to Hoddles Creek for Day 2, confident of taking an early 10th wicket to secure the win. Hoddles’ No. 11 batter had other ideas, with a ninth wicket partnership of more than 120 runs changing the game before Jackson Lehman eventually took the vital last wicket. This left Healesville needing 80-odd runs in their second 25 batting overs, with only four wickets in hand. Two early wickets for Hoddles brought co-captains Ryder Hudson (36*) and Tully Ellis (16) to
Yarra Glen’s Midweek sides are set to face Lilydale and Monbulk next round. (Supplied)
Lyn Baker clinches draw for Yarra Glen Bowls Club By Rodney Bates
Mika Kerst on his way to 4/9 off six overs for U16s. (Captured by CJL) the crease, and they patiently ground out a 50-run partnership before Ellis fell. This set up an exciting last few overs—Healesville needing just 8 runs for the win, and Hoddles needing only one wicket as the visitors were down a batter. With Ryder Hudson still at the crease and an in-form Alex Simmons coming back in, Healesville managed to make the runs to take home a thrilling win. U14 – Day 2 Healesville 130 defeated by Boronia Hawks 287: Although Boronia made an impressive total of 287, Healesville managed to bowl them out, with Hayden the star of the bowling (3/20 off 5 overs). It was a welcome return for Ahren (2/14 off 3.3 overs), whose extra height and pace surprised the Boronia batters. Angus got amongst the wickets, alongside two catches for Arlo and one apiece to Alby and Ahren. Max put his body on the line, wearing one on the temple in a brave effort to take a difficult catch. Healesville then batted again and managed to double their score from the first innings. Arlo retired on a patient 17, with good bat on ball for Archie, Hayden, and Mason. A last-wicket partnership of 29 between Ahren (25*) and Milo (3) underscored the importance of never throwing one’s wicket away—runs can come at any time. U12-1 – Healesville 6/57 defeated by Wandin 3/72: Wandin won the toss and sent Healesville in. Jack Parker (12) and Charlie Harmer (10*) gave the home side a strong start, with the score reaching 1/25. Bryce Stevenson added four and Logan Ste-
venson batted out his 15 balls before Wandin’s bowlers tightened up, leaving Healesville to finish at 6/57. Defending the total, Healesville came out firing. Jack Parker took a caught-and-bowled to finish with 1/4 including a maiden, while Callum Stewart also held a caught-and-bowled to have Wandin 2/3. Wandin steadied the chase and passed the target with overs to spare. Play continued so every Wandin player had a bat, with Charlie Harmer bowling Kogleman to finish with 1/8. Reece Morley, Finn Hawker, Edward, Logan Stevenson, and William all bowled tightly, conceding only a handful of runs off the bat. U12-2 – Healesville 4/150 defeated Lilydale 33: Another thriller against Yarra Glen saw the Under-12s just fall short this time, 120 to 112. Rory (1/15 off 3 overs) took the early wicket with a great catch by Max in the gully. Some agonising near misses followed with a few challenging catches going down, before the accurate bowling of Reggie (2/11 off 3 overs) took 2 wickets and Max took 1 (1/5 off 2 overs). Amidst the fielding challenges, Healesville still managed an impressive 3 run-outs thanks to Taylor, Reggie, and Angus. Healesville’s batting display was impressive, with the top 6 batsmen all retiring and running between wickets proving a highlight. Special mention to Josh (30) and Lenny (9*), who got his first runs in cricket including hitting a 4 and a sensational cover drive towards the end. Rory (8), Taylor (2), and Cooper faced the task of getting more than a run a ball in rapidly diminishing light, just falling short. Stage 2 Girls – Game cancelled due to weather.
Dressage In The Valley Gala By Anita Prowse Well, the Dressage In The Valley Gala had some classic Melbourne weather, with us sweltering on Friday, a little damp on Saturday, and drowned and cold on Sunday. Nevertheless, they came, rode and smiled, so it was a successful weekend and the green light to go ahead with this three day format again this time next year. Friday’s winners were: ■ Adv - Keely Mc Govern on Valtelina. ■ Grade 1 - Carrie Hatfeild on Glenhill Hero. ■ Grade 2 - Rebecca Doolan on Raleigh Amazing Grace. ■ Grade 3 - Georgia McKinnon on Thorwood Black Pepper. ■ Grade 4 - Mia Cuteri on Eddie. 30 MAIL | Tuesday, 27 October, 2026
■ Grade 5 - Virginia Fowler on Monahan Ukulele. ■ Grade 6 - Annabelle Marshall-Ward on Molly. Saturday: ■ Open 3 - Taryn Ferguson on Sharvalley Dance. ■ PC 3 - Georgia McKinnon on Thorwood Black Pepper from Yarra Glen and District PC. ■ PC 4 - Renee Alysandratos on Joemoor Splendas from Yarra Glen And District PC. ■ Open 5- Samantha McKenna on Mystic Shadows Golightly. ■ PC 5 - Bella Hicks on Harrington Park Pride from Doongala PC. ■ PC 6 - Faith Vare on Creswell Snowden from Balnarring PC. ■ Open 6 - Rebecca Adkinson on Professor Banks. Sunday HRCAV: ■ Adv - Rukshi Blacker on Cinna. ■ L1 -Mandy Edwards on Tye Dye.
Saturday Pony Club’s Grade Five place getters. (Supplied) ■ L2 - Libbie Rodgers on Harrier Hill Franklin Mint. ■ L3 - Rebecca Doolan on Raleigh Amazing Grace. ■ L4 - Melanie Gibb on Ame Soeur. ■ L5 - Catherine Grayson on Jack. Thanks, everyone, for supporting our event in such trying financial times. We hope you enjoyed it.
This year the club has added a fourth side to the weekend competition. With a number of new members joining, and with competition for places across all sides, there is added pressure for players and selectors alike. This week had some players unavailable and some late withdrawals making it a challenge to fill all the sides. As said by our pennant coordinator, Troy Stafford, on Saturday, we need everyone to pull together and put the club first. We were fortunate to coax some otherwise social members to pull on the colours, and we were also helped out by another club, Chirnside Park CC, who provided a fill-in. We hope to be able to return the favour when our players return in the coming weeks. With midweek competition also starting this week, the club has had a bright start to the season across both competitions. Our midweek Side One headed to Chirnside Park CC with a fast-paced arena compared to our home greens. With Allan James rink collecting six shots on the second end, and the other rinks holding firm and/or coming back, we were able to retain our lead across the day, coming home with a strong all-rink win 74-43 (16 points). A. Skillern 23-12; P. Leonard 21-18; A. James 30-13. Midweek side Two headed to Lilydale on their new synthetic surface. It was a tight contest, with Yarra Glen’s Lyn Baker clinching an overall draw on the last end. Final Scores 67-67 (9 points). D. 27-20; B. Youl 27-15; L. Baker 13-32. Saturday saw our top 2 sides both playing at home. Our Division One side was boosted this year with a number of quality player inclusions, including some who formerly played at Croydon. A strong incentive for both teams. Two rink wins not quite enough for Yarra, going down 75-90 (4 points). M. O’Halloran 7-30; Beau Simmons 28-19; Barry Ward 22-18; Ben Simmons 18-23. Division Three played third placed Boronia, with both clubs having a win in round one. Paul Tirant’s first skipping role this season started off very strongly, and with continued steady form from Troy Haartson’s team, a close battle by Smithy’s rink and with a big comeback by Nick Milners team from 10 shots down to pick up a four on the last end to win the rink by one shot. Overall, a solid three rink 27 shot win, 95-68 (16 points). T. Harrison 26-13; N. Milner 20-19; S. Smith 22-25; P. Tirant 27-11. Side Three in Division Six headed to Chirnside Park and continued their good season start. Chris Owen’s rink picked up three shots on the penultimate end to give the side some breathing space, eventually winning overall 8077 (14 points). A. Thurkle 29-22; K. O’Halloran 16-22; C. Owen 21-14; B. Chandler 14-19. Division Eight headed to Mitcham, bearing the brunt of late selection changes. Thanks to Chirnside Park’s George Georgio for playing as sub, and with 13 player rink skipped by Marty Ireland, we came away with a two-rink win 6446 (14 points). Danielle Skillern 15-19; M. Ireland 30-10; C. Ireland 19-17. Midweek has both sides at home this Tuesday, playing Lilydale and Monbulk. Go Yarra.
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Terry Bennett bowled 7-27 for Lusatia’ Second XI. (Supplied)
Bennett wreaks havoc for Lusatia By Kieran Cantwell
There was plenty to celebrate for Wandin Cricket Club this week, with wins across the board. (Supplied)
Wandin’s First XI finish off Heathwood By Greg Foden Wandin Cricket Club sides return for another round of cricket, with the Men’s First XI beating Heathwood, the Second XI taking out Chirnside Park, the Third XI delivering a quality win against Wantirna and the Fourths unluckily losing to Chirnside Park. The Women’s side was unfortunately washed out. Men’s First XI: Wandin Men’s First XI returned to Heathwood for Day Two of their two-day clash, with the threat of rain making every over crucial. Jamie Oakley struck twice early, including a sharp catch by Peter at backward point, while Callum Gordon provided solid support. Jarrod Dobson and Mitchell Kogelman maintained the pressure, with Heathwood 4/63 when rain forced an early tea. After the break, Kogelman continued his dominant spell, claiming another four wickets to finish with an outstanding 5/34 from 16 overs. Captain Dylan Cuthbertson also celebrated his first wicket for the club as Wandin bowled Heathwood out for 177. Oakley (2/26), Dobson (1/34), Cuthbertson (1/31) and Jamie Atkinson (1/22) also contributed wickets in an excellent team bowling performance. Men’s Second XI: Wandin Men’s Second XI battled wet weather and Chirnside Park in the second day of their split-innings two-day match at home. After intermittent rain delayed play, Rory Vallence made an early breakthrough before Chirnside’s batters made Wandin work hard for the final two wickets. Ethan Alderman and Jack Dowthwaite delivered the breakthroughs to bowl Chirnside out for 202, setting Wandin a target of 62 for victory. Rick Painter and Tyson Smith made light work of the chase, combining for an unbeaten partnership to guide Wandin to victory in just 10 overs. Vallence (4/55), Alex Ferguson (2/19) and Dan Trembath (2/27) led the bowling effort, while Smith finished unbeaten on 80 and Painter on 67 not out. A convincing win despite the challenging conditions, with Wandin’s batters making sure there was no late drama. Men’s Third XI: Wandin Men’s Third XI delivered an outstanding performance in a top-of-the-table clash against Wantirna at home, moving clear at the top of the ladder. After losing the toss and being sent in to bowl in wet conditions, Wandin worked hard to restrict Wantirna to 175 on a slow surface. Falkingham (2/22 off seven overs) and debutant Henderson
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The teams will head into the next round looking for another win. (Supplied) (2/17 off seven overs) led the way, while Vallence, Farry and Polido also picked up wickets. The run chase got off to a shaky start, with Wandin slipping to 3/33. However, Falkingham (52 retired) and captain McKenzie (31) steadied the innings with a crucial partnership. Polido then contributed a vital 39, supported by Marshall (18), to guide Wandin home six wickets down with two overs to spare. Polido’s all-round contribution proved invaluable, while both debutants made an immediate impact. A fantastic team effort against quality opposition sees the Third XI sitting clear on top of the ladder. Great win, boys! Men’s Fourth XI: Wandin Men’s Fourth XI travelled to Chirnside Park for a rain-affected contest on a slow, wet surface that made scoring difficult. Batting first, Wandin managed a modest total of 100, with Adrian leading the way by carrying his bat and finishing unbeaten on 48. Wandin battled hard with the ball, and A. Peet was the standout performer, taking an impressive 4/31 from seven overs. B. Christfield and L. Vaughan also applied pressure with tight bowling, with Vaughan claiming a wicket and contributing to a run-out. Chirnside Park eventually chased down the target in the 26th over, winning by four wickets.
While the result didn’t go Wandin’s way, the challenging conditions provided valuable experience and development for the younger players. The future remains bright for the Fourth XI. Women’s Cricket Unfortunately, the rain washed out Wandin’s women’s cricket this week. However, there was plenty to celebrate from the Under 14 boys, who secured an excellent away win against Warranwood. Under 14 Boys: Wandin Under 14 boys travelled to Warranwood and, after losing the toss, were sent in to bat. They made the most of their 25 overs, finishing on 3/148. Lewis Vaughan (30 off 25 balls, retired not out) and Bradley Rayner (29 off 25 balls, retired not out) led the batting effort. William Johnson also provided a highlight, hitting a six on his way to 13 off 11 balls despite playing with a fractured toe. With 148 on the board, Wandin’s bowlers delivered a disciplined performance, keeping the Warranwood batters in check and restricting them to 4/90 from their 25 overs. Kai Lowrie was outstanding, taking 3/12 from three overs, while James Rees claimed 1/9 from two overs. It was a strong all-round team performance, with contributions from both bat and ball securing a well-deserved win for Wandin.
Despite the grim weekend weather, we did manage to get some cricket in. However, our Third XI had already been defeated last week, and our Junior Girls and Women’s teams were thwarted by the Sunday rain. The First XI had a decent run chase ahead of them in their match against Eastfield at Woori Yallock Reserve. Chasing 330 for victory, Chris Reynolds once again set the standard, scoring 84 and batting in multiple partnerships. Adam Dunn and Andy Van Der Vlugt looked like they might steady the innings in the middle order, putting together a 63-run partnership before another collapse had us 9-219 and looking down the barrel of a comprehensive defeat. The weather had other ideas, however, as lightning and thunder halted play at this critical time, and then the heavens opened. Despite the storm clearing, the umpires deemed the pitch and ground unfit to continue, and the match was dramatically drawn. The Second XI had set Ainslie Park 204, but had snagged a wicket last week to set up a good battle. Both teams had one eye on the weather as they eyed a victory, but it was our team who took the early ascendancy. Dean Sharman got the opener, and then Terry Bennett took over, bowling stump to stump and wreaking havoc with the ball. By the end of his spell, he had amazing figures of 7-27 off 20 overs, and the game was all but won. Marty White finished off the innings before tea, with Ainslie Park all out for 78. On Friday night, our Mini Bash kids took on the heat and had a blast trying out their skills and giving it a go! Meanwhile, our U12 team took on Yarra Junction at Woori Yallock, with Maxwell top-scoring on 19 among lots of other batters who retired. With the ball, it was Daniel Philpot who shone, taking 4-5, with all four wickets coming in one brilliant over to help secure the victory. On Saturday morning, there was more success as our U14s completed the job from last week. Chasing Seville’s total of 175, some disciplined batting was required. In a good weekend for the Philpots, it was Cameron who stood up for the team, scoring his first 50 with 58 not out, brilliantly supported by Abi Diggins with 22 not out. The team won by three wickets in the 47th over. The U16 team did not need long to complete their victory, with Tayte Hubbard taking 2-8 as they dismissed Vermont for 107.
Daniel and Cameron Philpot after their exploits on the weekend. (Supplied)
Tuesday, 27 October, 2026 | MAIL 31
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For those planning a build or renovation, the Alpine Sale is a good opportunity to look at the range and consider models that may not normally be kept in stock. We can pre order what you know you want so it’s ready and waiting when the time comes. And it’s not only new fireplaces that deserve some attention at this time of year. Spring is arguably the best time to have an existing fireplace serviced. Once the weather turns cold, servicing bookings can quickly fill up as everyone gets their heaters ready for winter. Getting it done now means avoiding the seasonal queue and knowing your fireplace is ready for another winter. The Alpine Sale is now on at Euro Fireplace, with current specials available in-store. It’s a good time to drop in, have a look at what’s new and talk to the team about your heating plans for the season ahead.
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