Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 3rd March 2026

Donders at Tigers AFLW

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

A former Emerald Football Netball Club player, Jarrad Donders, has been appointed head coach of Richmond Football Club’s women’s team.

He previously worked as a physical education teacher and assistant principal at Emerald Secondary College, where he established an extra-curricular AFL program.

Mr Donders’ coaching journey began at Emerald Football Club before joining Hawthorn NGA as an assistant coach and later Eastern Ranges Boys and Girls teams.

Under his leadership, Eastern Ranges Girls reached the grand final in 2024 and won the championship in 2025.

He also coached Vic Metro at the Under-18 Championships in 2025.

Richmond Club’s chief executive officer, Shane Dunne praised Mr Donders’ leadership and player development skills.

“Jarrad is highly driven and genuinely invested in developing people, not just coaching players,” Mr Dunne said.

Read the full story on page 35

Sentence appeal

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

A Gembrook woman has been granted leave to appeal part of her prison sentence by the Victorian Court of Appeal after pleading guilty to multiple child sexual offences.

At a hearing on 17 February before Justice Kaye, the court considered the 30-year-old’s application to appeal her County Court sentence from last year.

Veronica Bridge (a pseudonym), she pleaded

guilty to two charges of sexual penetration of a child under 16, two charges of sexual assault of a child under 16, and one charge of grooming for sexual conduct with a child under 16.

The offending occurred over a brief period between 23 July and 10 August 2024, involving a 15-year-old co-worker at a bistro.

Ms Bridge was originally sentenced to a total effective term of three years and two months, with a non-parole period of 23 months.

She was declared a serious sexual offender for three charges, requiring community protection as the primary sentencing purpose, and is subject to lifetime reporting obligations under the Sex Offenders Registration Act.

The court noted that without an early guilty plea, her sentence could have been four years and eight months with a three-year non-parole period.

Her background includes substance dependence, six residential drug treatment admissions

between 2021 and 2023, and participation in the Self Help Addiction Resource Centre program in 2024, where she was described as “exceptional.”

Judge Kaye rejected a separate mental impairment argument but described the rehabilitation evidence as “quite impressive,” granting leave to appeal on the ground that her sentence may have been excessive.

The original sentence remains in place while the Court of Appeal hears full arguments on whether it should be reduced.

Jarrad Donders has been named head coach of Richmond Football Club women’s team. (Supplied)

Residents slam Knox cat plan as ‘punitive’

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Knox residents have voiced strong opposition to the council’s proposed Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) 2026-2029, calling it “punitive,” costly, and divisive.

At a fortnightly meeting on Monday, 23 February, Knox Council argued its plan is designed to encourage responsible pet ownership and protect wildlife.

Spokesperson for Knox AdvoCats, Ashlley Morgan-Shae said the plan disproportionately targets vulnerable residents such as renters, the elderly, and the disabled.

“Spending more on punishing Knox’s poorest forces families to choose between food on the table or their fur companions,” Ms Morgan-Shae said.

She also warned that the plan would increase impoundments and euthanasia, put greater strain on volunteer rescuers, and do little to reduce the number of roaming or homeless cats.

“Science shows the suicide risk for rescuers and shelter workers is higher than what is endured by Australian police and firefighters,” she said.

Council documents show that only around six per cent of impounded cats are reclaimed, with the majority of Victoria’s impounded cats having

no owners.

Ms Morgan-Shae said punitive measures will penalise residents who cannot afford desexing fees rather than irresponsible owners.

“Knox’s DAMP is outlawing empathy for animals in need, forcing less animals to be fed and cared for inflicts greater community distress,” she said.

In contrast, advocates are pushing for a Community Cat Program (CCP), a long-term, targeted approach that identifies suburbs with the highest cat-related issues and provides free desexing and microchipping for semi-owned cats.

Ms Morgan-Shae said CCPs have been proven to reduce impoundments, complaints, and euthanasia at a fraction of the cost of punitive measures.

“Casey Council currently spends an estimated $1.83 million annually on a 24-hour cat curfew, which has driven impoundments up by 680 per cent,” she said.

Knox councillors, however, defended the DAMP at the recent meeting. Cr Lockwood said the plan applies to all domestic pets and is aimed at encouraging responsible ownership. He argued that community feedback indicated broad support, though he acknowledged some residents disagree with the 24-hour cat containment measures.

Cr Lockwood also suggested that targeted desexing programs could complement the plan but emphasised that the council’s approach meets its statutory obligations.

Cr Pearce said adopting the DAMP is a legal requirement under Section 68A of the Domestic Animals Act 1994, and not doing so would expose the council to regulatory and reputational risks.

She said two phases of community engagement had already been conducted and described the plan as financially sound and cost-neutral overall.

Despite council assurances, residents like Ms Morgan-Shae remain unconvinced.

She said the punitive approach fosters inequality between dog and cat owners, makes caring for pets financially and emotionally stressful, and does not address the underlying causes of roaming cats.

“Community Cat Programs work in partnership with rescuers and carers, cost less than 10 per cent of Knox’s model, and actually save lives,” Ms Morgan-Shae said.

The council unanimously approved the DAMP 2026-2029 at the meeting.

As an advocate, Ms Morgan-Shae is hoping their calls for evidence-based, humane alternatives might still be considered in future council decisions.

IN BRIEF

Man charged 98 times

A man has been charged with a staggering 98 offences following an extensive investigation into thefts across Melbourne’s eastern and southeastern suburbs between November 2025 and February 2026.

Detectives from Casey Crime Investigation Unit and the Crime Reduction Team executed a search warrant at a property on Duce Street in Cranbourne East on Wednesday, 25 February about 8am.

A man allegedly fled the property on foot, however he was located in the rear yard of a neighbouring property and taken into custody.

During the search of the property, officers located an allegedly stolen BMW, stolen power tools and small quantity of methylamphetamine and 1,4-Butanediol.

The 31-year-old man was charged with 98 offences, from theft to unlicensed driving. He was presented to the Frankston Magistrate’s Court last night where he was remanded until 5 March.

Star Mail IT issue

The Star Mail apologises to readers who were hoping to pick up a copy of the Tuesday 24 February editions on the day after an IT issue caused a delay in newspapers going to print.

Corrupted files on the Star Mail server caused issues with a large number of images and ads during the Monday 23 February deadline.

The Star Mail apologises for any inconvenience caused.

Be aware of dry lighting

As local thunderstorms began last week in the hills, a local CFA took to social media to remind residents of the risks of dry lighting.

“Dry lightning is often responsible for starting grass and scrub fires,” read Belgrave South’s social media.

“Even if it is raining, trees can still burn after being struck.”

Lightning strikes are one of the most common cause of bushfires and grassfires in Australia.

Something that is outside human control, preparation is key and the CFA website asks residents to stay across any fires in their area with the VicEmergency app.

People should make sure you have a fire plan in their household and have their VicEmergency app downloaded onto their mobile with a local watch zone set up for information before, during and after all kinds of emergencies.

For more information head to the CFA website.

Raised crossing install in Upwey Pedestrians will have safer crossings in Upwey, with raised pedestrian crossings to be constructed over the coming month.

Crossings at the Morris Road roundabout and Mahony Street roundabout intersections will be raised, with zebra crossings, as part of works to improve the streetscape and drainage in Upwey’s main street.

Council’s cat plan sparks fur-ry of opposition from residents and advocates. (Unsplash)

Court reviews sentence

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

WARNING: This article contains descriptions of sexual assaults on minor, some readers may find distressing.

A woman raised in Gembrook has been granted leave to appeal part of her prison sentence by the Victorian Court of Appeal after pleading

guilty to multiple child sexual offences.

At a hearing on Tuesday, 17 February, before Justice Kaye, the Court of Appeal considered the 30-year-old’s application for leave to appeal against a sentence imposed by the County Court of Victoria last year.

Veronica Bridge (a pseudonym), who grew up on a small farm in Gembrook pleaded guilty to two charges of sexual penetration of a child under 16, two charges of sexual assault of a child under 16, and one charge of grooming for sexual conduct with a child under 16.

The offending occurred over a short period between 23 July and 10 August 2024 and involved a 15-year-old co-worker at a bistro where both were employed on a casual basis.

Following a plea hearing, Ms Bridge was sentenced to a total effective sentence of threeyears and two-months’ imprisonment, with a non-parole period of 23 months.

The sentencing judge declared her a serious sexual offender in relation to three of the charges, meaning community protection was required to be treated as the principal sentencing purpose.

She is also subject to lifetime reporting obligations under the Sex Offenders Registration Act.

The court noted had she not pleaded guilty at an early stage, she would have faced fouryears and eight-months’ imprisonment with a non-parole period of three years and two months.

Material before the court outlined her background, including a history of substance dependence and unstable relationships.

Between 2021 and 2023 she had six residential drug treatment admissions at Malvern Private Hospital and later entered the Self Help Addiction Resource Centre (SHARC) program in November 2024, where she was described as an “exceptional resident.”

A psychologist diagnosed her with Borderline Personality Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, and polysubstance dependence in early remission, assessed her as low risk of reoffending, and noted she had reasonable rehabilitation prospects.

She sought leave to appeal on two grounds, the first alleged the sentencing judge failed to properly apply principles concerning the relevance of mental impairment to sentencing. Judge Kaye rejected that ground, stating that it was clear the judge had considered those principles and the impact of imprisonment on her mental health.

On the second ground, Ms Bridge argued the total effective sentence and non-parole period were manifestly excessive, particularly given her early guilty plea, lack of prior convictions, previous good character and significant rehabilitation efforts.

While noting the seriousness of the offending and the statutory requirements applying to serious sexual offenders, Judge Kaye described the rehabilitation evidence as “quite impressive” and concluded, though with some hesitation, that it was reasonably arguable the total effective sentence may have been excessive. Leave to appeal was granted on that ground, meaning the Court of Appeal will now hear full arguments on whether the sentence should be reduced.

The original sentence of three-years and two-months’ imprisonment, with a non-parole period of 23 months remains in place pending the outcome of the appeal.

A Gembrook woman has been granted leave to appeal part of her prison sentence. (File)

Remain on fire alert

By Tanya Steele

The Yarra Ranges community should stay prepared for bushfires well into autumn this year, as the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC ) released their nationwide bushfire outlook last week.

The outlook for autumn released on 26 February has forecast the months ahead will spell higher risk of fire large parts of Victoria, extending to parts of southeast South Australia, parts of southern WA and southern, central, and eastern NSW.

AFAC chief executive officer Rob Webb said that the increased bushfire risk is driven by increased long-term dryness and persistent soil moisture deficits.

“For many parts of southern Australia, autumn sees the gradual reduction in fire risk and opportunities for prescribed burning can increase,” he said.

“However, these programs may be delayed in some areas because of the underlying conditions.”

According to the outlook, the long-term drought, along with a dry and warm summer and autumn, will reinforce severe dryness across Victoria, so the increased bushfire risk is predicted for all of Victoria except for East Gippsland and the Mallee in autumn.

Fire authorities will continue to monitor conditions for any changes in fire risk, and across the Yarra Ranges, CFA brigades are staying alert and ready.

Macclesfield CFA Captain Sharon Merritt said the underlying soil dryness and warm temperatures will dry out the vegetation in the bush, which means it will remain very flammable.

“Locally, the grass is starting to green up, but there are still many paddocks with quite dead and dry grass, “ she said.

“Fire will easily travel in these paddocks in autumn, and the fire risk is still with us.”

Released quarterly, the report identifies areas of increased risk of fire to help people prepare and take action.

While spring rainfall was generally average to above-average, particularly across southern Victoria, it was very much below average across Victoria through summer and Melbourne water have reported that water storage levels have dropped significantly over the past year, following low rainfall, record-low streamflows and higher household water use.

Ferntree Gully CFA Captain Seamus Smith said that while the community is still obviously operating in a high-risk environment for summer, the fire season still has some time ahead for it.

“Remembering back to last year, our firefight-

Areas marked red on the map indicate the likelihood of an increased number of significant bushfires occurring in autumn, compared to an average risk of fire. (AFAC website).

ing efforts, because of the underlying dryness and drought factors, pushed us into a fire season that went right through to almost April,” he said.

The ongoing low rainfall across all of Victoria, except for East Gippsland affected Melbourne’s annual water outlook for 2026.

Upper Ferntree Gully Captain Peter Smith said some of the parks are very dry this year and the seasons have been longer, and while they are very much still in summer mode, they are now dealing with autumnal issues.

In his unit, the volunteers are looking at action plans for the change of season, advising residents to slow down on the roads and leave room on the busy streets for the CFA trucks to get through in emergencies.

“The first few days of rain, the drains block up on Burwood Highway, and the oils come to the surface of the asphalt road; the road becomes slippery,” he said.

The autumn outlook has been reported by the AFAC outlook to have a higher chance of warmer

maximum temperatures, combined with a drier than normal rainfall outlook.

This longer drying pattern will continue after summer and means there will be increases in fuel availability across most of the state.

Without decent rainfall, the flammability of fuels in forests, woodlands and heathlands will remain high with elevated potential for fires to start and spread into autumn, so most of Victoria is in the same boat during the autumn months.

The extreme level of forest flammability across Victoria will mean a delayed start to planned burning is likely in most areas, except for perhaps East Gippsland.

“The reality is that we’re still in an environment where, regardless of the total fire ban days, even the average warm day with a good wind behind it, the fuels are still dry enough to cause fire to propagate through the environment,” said Captain Seamus Smith.

Available on the AFAC website, the quarterly outlook is the combination of a complex analysis by expert fire specialists across Australia, and climate prediction and fire weather experts from the Bureau of Meteorology.

It is developed by the Bureau of Meteorology, ACT Emergency Services Agency, ACT Parks and Conservation Service, Bushfires NT Country Fire Authority, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action Victoria, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions WA, NSW Rural Fire Service, SA Country Fire Service, Tasmania Fire Service, Department of Fire and Emergency Services and AFAC.

CFA across the Yarra Ranges encourage residents to stay aware, alert and fire ready, keeping alerts on for their VicEmergency apps and staying updated on the weather, especially as the year gets into full swing.

“Remember, your bushfire plan and your triggers for actions,” said Captain Seamus Smith.

Council puts forward its advocacy priorities

By Callum Ludwig

Yarra Ranges Council has endorsed the motions they will take to the next meetings of the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) and the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA).

At the Tuesday 24 February council meeting, councillors approved five motions for the ALGA’s national general assembly for 2026 and three for MAV’s State Council in May.

To the ALGA, Yarra Ranges Council wants to campaign for improved housing options for older people, a national climate initiative called One Million Trees, a federal fund for small plant transitioning to support the push for Net Zero, to implement traditional owner organisation involvement in emergency management and disaster recovery and to introduce an ASIC regulatory mechanism activation to ensure insurance affordability.

To the MAV, the council is advocating for funding for youth community inclusion services and initiatives to improve youth mental health and prevent youth crime, help clarify the role of councils in water resilience from non-water authority managed assets and to progress the South-East Metropolitan Advanced Waste Processing Project to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill by 95 per cent, while also generating energy from waste (a joint motion, led by Bayside City Council).

Councillors were invited to speak to the motion after Mayor and Chirnside Ward councillor Richard Higgins put them in ‘layman’s terms’.

O’Shannassy Ward Councillor Jim Child and Ryrie Ward Councillor Fiona McAllister highlighted the issue of youth mental health.

“There is a horrific statistic that is out there at present, youth suicide rates in the Yarra Ranges are significantly higher, 50 per cent higher, than our neighbouring councils, why, that is so important and is why we have to address this problem, we have to advocate in the strongest possible way that this has to stop,” Cr Child said.

“We can’t lose our young people, we just cannot.”

“In Yarra Ranges, it can take up to six months, if not more, to get an appointment with a psychologist who specialises in working with young people…if you were in a crisis state with suicidal thoughts, that’s not acceptable,” Cr McAllister said.

With youth crime also on the rise, Yarra Ranges Council believes ‘prevention-focused, place-based connection programs and infrastructure’ are the key, with improved youth mental health funding to support the many different kinds of at-risk children in the communities.

Billanook Ward councillor Tim Heenan said they need state and federal governments to understand that there are many aspects of things that they can’t do on their own in local government.

“Sometimes I don’t think that message gets across because I think they presume that we’re either whinging or complaining and then they’ll fire back a tirade of comments to say that local government gets this and local government gets that,” he said.

“Things are getting much more difficult now from a local government perspective and we need the support of our state government and our federal government in many different ways,

Sprinkler defence system trial

By Oliver Winn

Seven outer east CFA brigades went on the defensive in Woods Point on 21-22 February to protect the town from a threatening fire in Gaffneys Creek.

Wandin CFA joined the asset protection strike team, where they drew battle lines around the town with strategically placed sprinkler systems.

Luckily, conditions were milder than expected and brigades travelled back home on Sunday afternoon.

Wandin CFA fourth lieutenant Phil Smith bolstered the strike team and said locals were reassured at the CFA’s presence in town.

“It was mostly about providing that protection in case it did go wrong, and for the peace of mind of the locals,” Mr Smith said.

With the nearest town some 55 kilometres away, Woods Point residents are quite isolated and they rely on the support from other towns.

“Knowing that they’re not forgotten and people are willing to come out and make sure they’re safe and they’ve got somewhere to sleep tomorrow night is really important for residents.”

Mr Smith estimated roughly $60,000 of hose was laid around the town to set up the sprinkler defence system, which was a first time for the CFA.

The system was set up by the strike team which arrived earlier on the Saturday, which comprised brigades from Rowville, Mooroolbark, Chirnside Park, Ferntree Gully, Kallista and The Basin.

“From my point of view as a firefighter, it [the sprinkler system] was really good.

“I just don’t want to be the guy that has to go pack up all the hoses,” Mr Smith joked.

The brigades were briefed on the system and were told of a potential ember attack that could occur in the early morning.

“There was nothing much happening when we got there so we retired and had the arrangements in place that if shit hit the fan we’d be woken up and told where to go and what to do.”

Generous locals opened up their doors to the firefighters on Saturday night, providing a roof over their heads as they rested up for the next day.

“The people opening up their homesit’s the first time I’ve seen that happen. It was really nice to have a home basically to live in, even if it was only for one night.

both from a financial point of view, but a greater degree of understanding, because I don’t think that is being played out in politics at the moment.

“I can’t understand why, because we are the closest form of government to the people… we need their help, and it has to be ongoing.”

The nine councils involved in the South-East Metropolitan Advanced Waste Processing Project, want MAV to note that the project is currently being held-up as a result of an EPA decision regarding a proposed transfer station being appealed at VCAT and want them to call the State Government to intervene to expedite the process of approving the proposed waste transfer facility.

Lyster Ward Councillor Peter McIlwain said he believes local government is the spearhead of economic development in our country.

“It’s a great underexplored or at least under-commented aspect of the Australian economy that the coalface of where economic development happens is actually at the local level, we know that investment in local council has a multiplier effect many times greater than other forms of government investment and I’ve seen reports of two to three times more,” he said.

“This is a very substantial and very overlooked element of economic development and these motions are indicating what potential is out there within local council.

“The money that the federal government takes in taxation would be very well spent within the local government sector and we’re terribly underinvested, and if you look at it from an international perspective, Australia is a very, very poor performer in terms of supporting local government.”

“Which was always very much appreciated, because often on these things you sort of get... a nice flat bit of ground there [to sleep on],” Mr Smith said.

The Sunday was spent stationing the trucks around the town’s edge, splitting it into two sections.

“Hanging around, talking to the locals, seeing what their fire preparations were like, how defendable their properties and everything were in case the fire turned bad,” Mr Smith said.

He said the deployment went well and the brigades were sent back home at 4pm.

“There was a couple of unique things up there and they worked out really well and everything worked out best for the town,” Mr Smith said.

The outlook has fire authorities continuing their work conditions for any changes in fire risk. (File: 313936).

CFA brigades stopped at Warburton for dinner, before heading to Woods Point.

(Wandin CFA)

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Early days for tourism merger

By Oliver Winn

The merger between Yarra Ranges Tourism and Tourism East is still in its infancy as it navigates its first year, a report at the 24 February Yarra Ranges Council meeting has shown.

The Tourism East Partnership Activity Report noted the highlights of Yarra Ranges Tourism’s (YRT) and Tourism East’s (TE) highlights for the 2024-25 period prior to its merger, while focusing on key priorities for the next year.

Councillor Fiona McAllister was “pleased” with the report, noting the increase in market reach.

“This report’s interesting in that it shows quite a significant moment in time of transitioning from Yarra Ranges Tourism to the new Tourism East Partnership,” Cr McAllister said.

“This is really reflecting on achievement both in the previous entity Yarra Ranges Tourism, but also Tourism East, and the data is quite compelling around an increase in marketing reach, industry engagement and a whole range of other activities.”

The Yarra Ranges Council merged YRT with TE in July 2025, establishing a new state-driven Visitor Economy Partnership (VEP) which saw them combine forces with Cardinia and Nillumbik Shire Councils.

Cr McAllister said strong figures surrounding online engagement and visitation to the region proved the tourism industry was growing in the Yarra Ranges.

International spend in the region up was by 26 per cent to 47 million, while international nights stayed saw an 84 per cent increase.

“That is the evidence that the work that’s being done is actually having traction and impact on the ground,” Cr McAllister said.

“The flow and effects of tourism both from a primary perspective, a first tier of impact on direct employment, on the vibrancy of our townships right across the Yarra Ranges are also

supported by second tier impacts which actually strengthens many local businesses and many other aspects that are critical in our community.”

The merger wasn’t without controversy - concerns surrounding a rushed process and lack of consultation arose when it was endorsed in April 2025.

In an April 2025 Star Mail article, Warburton Advancement League (WAL) vice president David Pratt raised concerns the merger was rushed and without proper consultation.

“In my assessment, based on this report, it is being rushed, reliant on untested assumptions, lacking structural clarity, including even a defined constitution at this point for the entity

in question, and the structure of the report with missing data,” Mr Pratt said in April 2025.

But, the State Government was going to cease funding for Yarra Ranges Tourism in June 2025, and the merger was seen as a necessity.

The funding numbers and the rushed feel of the report were attributed to timing and the need to hold onto State Government funds.

“We don’t really have much opportunity and while we can go out on our own, we won’t have access to State Government funding, and we won’t have a voice at the table… the reason for the relative rush is that State Government funding for YRT ends on 30th of June…” Ms Blakeway said.

Cr Child was also happy with the activity re-

port and said it was a good indication of what was to come.

“I believe [this document] really is showing us what this body is doing, as far as promoting our region, and doing it I believe so well,” Cr Child said.

The report noted there had been some challenges since the merger.

It mentioned limitations on data reporting, economic impact on partnership renewals and the council’s financial position as being some of the difficulties experienced since the merger.

Changes to privacy settings on mobile devices (Apple and Google) had hindered the ability to track full digital results, the report stated.

While unique users increased to from roughly 650,000 to just over 800,000, metrics such as “time on page” had decreased, partly due to AI search behaviours driving visitors to specific pages rather than the home page.

The report noted a struggling economy had influenced industry uptake, with the current business partner amount sitting 12 below its target at 322.

This was still regarded as an “impressive achievement” considering cost-of-living pressures on local businesses.

Applications are now open for the 2026 Cardinia Community Leadership Program!

Build your leadership capabilities, deepen your understanding of local issues and connect with other local leaders.

The 6 month program includes workshops, case study discussions, presentations and collaborative group activities.

The in-person program is funded by Council and is open to Cardinia Shire residents.

Applications close at midnight on Sunday 29 March.

Community Grants 2026 are now open!

The Cardinia Community Foundation Ltd is a philanthropic community foundation, raising funds for local community groups throughout the Cardinia Shire, with funds dispersed through an annual grants program. Established in 2003, the foundation aims to support the social, community and physical development of the Cardinia Shire.

Community groups, charities and not-for-profit organisations are invited to apply for a grant in this year’s program. The Community Grants Program aims to support projects aligned with the Cardinia Shire’s Liveability Plan that focuses on food security, housing, crisis support, health, education, social cohesion, the environment, the arts and men's health across the Cardinia Shire region.

How to apply:

Head to our website: cardiniafoundation.org/grants

Download the ‘Policy’ before starting the application. Follow the link to apply through our grant platform.

Applications will close at 3.00pm on Friday 20 March 2026. th

Get in touch for more information: admin@cardiniafoundation.org 03 5945 0766

Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child, Cardinia Mayor Jack Kowarzik and Nillumbik Mayor John Dumaresq at the merger’s launch in June 2025. (Mikayla van Loon: 484319)

The new visitor economy partnership has been endorsed, creating a cross-council tourism push. (484319)

Burrinja partnership plan

By Tanya Steele

A local creative hub of the hills has put forward its budget and plans for the future for consideration by the Yarra Ranges Council at the latest meeting on 24 February.

Yarra Ranges Council officers will now review the partnership between Council and the Burrinja Cultural Centre, planning to put it before councillors before June 30 this year.

Carried unanimously, Yarra Ranges Councillors supported the motion to accept Burrinja Cultural Centre’s annual reports for 2024-2025 and commence a review of the partnership.

“It’s a great partnership that we have with Burrinja,” said Councillor Tim Heenan,

“I sincerely hope we can continue along the way we’re going,” he said.

Cr Peter McIlwain said the cultural centre has set a very robust course for the future.

“I have seen over a period of time just how

Sitting tucked away in Upwey, the centre provides an important hub for the arts in the Yarra Ranges. (Stewart Chambers: 522204)

much impact an organisation like Burrinja has on our local economy,” he said.

Yarra Ranges Council has supported Burrinja Cultural Centre for over 20 years, and the most

recent four-year partnering agreement between them was endorsed in December 2022.

The review will either see the update of key performance indicators for the centre or extend the agreement for another year.

Burrinja currently receives annual funding of $592,885 from the Yarra Ranges Council and also received a Victorian Government grant of $100,000 over four years in December last year.

According to the Burrinja Annual Report 2024 and Burrinja Strategic Plan 2025-2029 documents supplied, the 2025-26 budget at Burrinja is showing a lower deficit than it’s $90,000 deficit of 20242025, with Burrinja expecting to return to surplus in 2026-2027.

The last year has been reported as a year of change, following the departure of Gareth Hart in April 2024.

Burrinja’s current Creative Director/CEO, Melanie Burge, commenced her role in August 2024.

Other staff changes across key leadership and operational roles have affected Burrinja’s ability to meet all its key performance indicators set under the existing agreement, and while some performance measures were not fully achieved, others were reported as going beyond requirements.

Yarra Ranges officers will work with Burrinja to complete a review of the agreement, key performance indicators, and opportunities to enhance alignment with key Council and Burrinja plans, strategies, and resources.

Councillors passed the motion for the documents and review unanimously, and praised Burrinja for its widespread impact on local arts, economy, and community.

“I fully support the motion, because Burrinja is something that is a real success story for our council and for our community,” said Cr McIlwain.

Outdoor dining parklet future goes under review

By Tanya Steele

Outdoor dining parklets remain under scrutiny across Victoria as councils decide the future of structures introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic to support local businesses.

One parklet drawing attention is in Forest Road in Ferntree Gully, where some residents continue calling for its removal while others argue it benefits the local community.

At the same time, an RMIT expert is calling for councils to expand and innovate their parklet policies and programs to transform streets and enliven local communities as councils across Victoria begin to firm up their positions on the spaces.

Professor Quentin Stevens, Landscape Architecture, said that parklets, which were first introduced just 20 years ago as unauthorised, temporary interventions on city streets, have rapidly become a vital tool for local communities to enliven and transform streets to increase greenery, commerce, social interaction and play.

“Our research shows that hospitality parklets, and even parklets available for free community use, tend to cluster very tightly within hospitality precincts that are already thriving,” they said.

Knox City Council is preparing a municipality-wide outdoor dining policy expected by April after delays for the removal of non-compliant parklet structures last year, including the Ferntree Gully site, three parklets remain across Knox,

A media spokesperson from Knox Council said that at present, the Council manages these outdoor dining parklets under local law provi-

sions.

“Businesses must obtain a street trading or outdoor dining permit to operate in these spaces and comply with all permit conditions, including maintenance and management of the area,” they said.

Knox council may yet extend permission for outdoor dining parklets to continue operating in Knox after 1 March 2026 until 1 June 2026, but only if business owners have submitted the required application for an ongoing parklet 27 February 2026 last week.

If an application was not submitted by this deadline, council officers will begin removing their existing parklets from 2 March 2026.

Ferntree Gully Village township group President Seamus Smith said their group has concerns about the lack of maintenance at the site and said the parklet looks tattered and worn and the space can make it difficult for cars to

pull out along that road.

“What would happen if someone were to hurt themselves?” he said.

In a report submitted in October last year, Knox Council officers said many of their parklets built were no longer in use, and many were showing obvious wear and tear and were progressively deteriorating.

The council’s building team inspected their parklets and noted several compliance and maintenance issues, recommending their removal.

Further factors have complicated the Ferntree Gully parklet; the land it is built on is both private and public, it lies across two businesses and one if currently up for sale.

First built in September 2020 after the first Covid-19 lockdowns as part of the state government’s Outdoor Eating and Entertainment Package, Knox City Council received $500,000 at the time to deliver and support outdoor dining and entertainment space parklets.

Set to be removed in August 2022, council officers recommended they be extended for another year until August 2023 alongside the introduction of a permit fee based on street trading and commercial use of the footpath - the motion was passed unanimously.

In Cardinia Shire, they have no parklets to manage, but a spokesperson said that the footpath trading policy is currently under review internally.

“When the draft policy is released for public consultation, the community will have the opportunity to provide feedback, including views on whether outdoor dining or parklet options should be considered in the long term,” they said.

Hills resident shares Repower

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

After drawing a strong crowd in 2025, the Repower Festival is returning to the Yarra Ranges, and last year’s attendee, Emerald resident Julian Soo, said it is well worth the visit.

The festival will be held on Sunday, 22 March from 10am to 4pm at the Lilydale Civic Centre at 15 Anderson Street, Lilydale, following what organisers estimate was a turnout of more than 500 people at last year’s inaugural event.

Mr Soo moved to Emerald about 18 months ago and decided to check out the inaugural festival while figuring out how to make his home cheaper to run, more environmentally friendly and better prepared for the kind of power outages hills residents know all too well.

“When I moved to Emerald, I was looking at ways to make my house more environmentally friendly, to lower my energy bills, and also to make it more resilient if there were any power outages,” he said.

Despite working in the climate change industry, Mr Soo said he did not feel particularly confident about electrifying his own home before attending.

“Probably about a four,” he said, rating his

confidence out of 10.

“I knew a little bit about which technologies were available, but I didn’t know how to pull it all together.”

Although he works in large-scale climate initiatives, applying that knowledge at home was another matter.

“I kind of had an idea about some of the larger trends, but I didn’t fully understand how that translated into changes that you’d make at home,” he said.

Living in the hills added another layer of urgency, with many neighbours relying on diesel generators during outages, Mr Soo and his family

In Yarra Ranges, the council audits and repairs its parklets regularly and have plan to make one in Upwey permanent.

Yarra Ranges Council Acting Director of Built Environment and Infrastructure, Vincenzo Lombardi, said that initially, the parklets were installed for a very specific purpose during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“They are still widely used, and Council continues to receive positive feedback from both traders and the wider community,” he said.

“In response to this Council has recently installed a new parklet in Yarra Glen at the specific request of local traders for all to enjoy.”

Back in Knox, as the new outdoor policy release approaches, some have argued that taking the parklet away would negatively impact the community.

Knox Council received a petition with more than 100 signatures in support of the parklet in Ferntree Gully last October, arguing the removal of the structure would “negatively impact the experience of customers.”

The petition also included that the space is used regularly on the weekend by a cyclist group.

Mr Smith said that if the parklet was being used more regularly and closer to their cafes in Ferntree Gully, the group would take a different stance.

“The council officers have acknowledged that the building structure isn’t sound, and councilors have gone against the officer’s wishes and elected to push it on, push it on and and keep it going, which is frustrating as a as a resident, as well as someone who has listened to other community members who also find issues with the with the site,” he said.

Festival success story

were concerned about what would happen if the power went out for days at a time.

“From a resilience perspective, it’s very important that you think about this stuff,” he said.

What the festival provided, he said, was clarity.

“You often hear about different offers and deals and technologies but it can be quite confusing to know what’s my pathway forward,” Mr Soo said.

“The most useful thing that I came out with was I knew exactly how I wanted to do it going forward, and I knew roughly how long it would take.”

Rather than contacting suppliers one by one, the event allowed him to speak to multiple providers in one place, as well as organisations such as Solar Victoria, which helped him understand different perspectives before making decisions.

“I think I spoke to almost all the suppliers there,” he said.

One of the more surprising things he learnt was that installing a battery does not necessarily require rooftop solar.

“Most people think that they go together but if you want to just install a battery, which you charge up from the grid during the day and then

run off at night, that’s perfectly okay,” Mr Soo said. Since making the switch, the difference at home has been noticeable.

“We have very, very consistent power bills each month, which don’t change. Gas bill went down dramatically,” he said.

“When the power goes out, we don’t even notice it. It just switches directly to battery.”

“The only way that I know that there’s been a power outage is because I hear my neighbours powering up their generators.”

He said without attending the festival, he would be years behind where he is now.

“It gave me the confidence and the pathway forward. If I hadn’t gone I would have had to do a lot of research, and I would have felt a lot of trepidation about making the investments that I have,” Mr Soo said.

His message to those unsure about heading along this year is simple.

“There’s no obligation to do any of this stuff, but you’ll definitely come out learning a few things about the changes you could make to your house over the next few years,” he said.

“You’ll probably have a chance just to see some cool technologies.”

The parklet space in Ferntree Gully has community and councillors divided, while delayed decisions and a lack of maintenance complicate the issue. (Stewart Chambers: 537453)

Emerald resident, Julian Soo is encouraging locals to check out the Repower Festival. (File)

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Free teen yoga on offer

Adolescence can be an exhilarating period, a time full of possibilities and paradoxes. Whether you currently live with a teenager or you remember the tribulations of being one, everyone can attest to the myriad of internal and external stressors that teens face.

This generation of teenagers face an entirely different constellation of challenges than any generation before. Recognising a rising mental health and meaning crisis amongst teens, a group in Belgrave decided to do something about it.

In early 2024, at a meeting of the Belgrave Traders Association, the need for more wellbeing and mental health support for teens was raised amongst business owners of The Hills. “I knew we had the resources and space that could support our local teenagers,” says Jodie Stroll, owner of Ananda Yoga Belgrave, a light-filled yoga studio in the heart of Belgrave.

Ananda Yoga Belgrave hosts regular kids yoga with Elanor Franklin of Melbourne Kids Yoga and Creative Dance, and together with the support of the Belgrave Traders Association, they created a weekly Teen Yoga class in Term 1 of 2024.

Elanor grew up practising yoga and knows it’s never too early or too late to cultivate the positive skills and constructive mindset that yoga offers. Initially, the Belgrave Traders Association funded this class, but as time went on, Elanor offered to continue the class for free.

“It’s essential to me that these classes remain accessible through a donation model or at no cost,” says Elanor. “Participation in enhancing your wellbeing and physical health shouldn’t be limited to those who can pay.”

Teenagers wrestle with a wide range of internal and interpersonal challenges, complex online and face-to-face social dynamics, academic pressures, sport, work and family responsibilities. Not to mention swirling insecurities and raging hormones. For teens, these sessions pro-

vide a mid-week sanctuary.

Elanor guides teens through movement (?sana), breath (pr???y?ma) and meditation

(dhy?na). These classes offer an authentic introduction to adult yoga practice that is appropriate for the biomechanics of growing teen bodies and

the mental-emotional experiences they are meeting at this stage of life.

Students can expect to engage in mindful movement and breathwork, to enhance selfawareness, strengthen both mental and physical health, and foster a sense of tranquillity. With inclusive guidance, teens can develop flexibility and strength, enabling them to achieve challenging postures while also cultivating the ability to sit quietly with their thoughts and breath.

Beyond physical movement and awareness cultivation in meditation, yoga can offer an anchor for teens in a sea of mental health concerns. In a culture where social pressures and anticipatory anxiety are rife, yoga can provide a way for teens to digest their feelings through embodiment practices and orient towards values that benefit their mental wellbeing and social cohesion.

By encouraging values such as truth, nonviolence, patience and forgiveness, combined with the nervous system regulation tools innate to yogic practice, yoga can help teens navigate the waves of their internal environment and interpersonal relationships.

In a time when teenagers face unprecedented pressures, simple, consistent support can make a meaningful impact. Yoga offers not only a movement practice; it provides practical tools for emotional regulation, self-understanding, and resilience during a formative stage of life. Ananda Yoga Belgrave and Elanor Franklin are creating an environment for teens to foster not only individual wellbeing, but a more connected and resilient community.

FREE Teen Yoga

• Wednesday 4pm, during school term. Ananda Yoga Belgrave

• 1681 Burwood Hwy

• Belgrave

Teen Yoga - striking a confident ‘Wild Thing’ pose. (Supplied)

‘Shed’ old, embrace new

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Ferntree Gully residents gathered on Tuesday, 24 February, with the team from Community Housing Limited (CHL), Opendoor, and local community leaders, including Knox City Council Mayor to celebrate the opening of a newly transformed community hub.

What was once a simple garden shed has been completely revitalised into a welcoming and functional space designed to bring the community together.

The project fully funded by Opendoor and brought to life by Workforce Australia Work for the Dole participants, took four months to complete and have provided young people with practical training while creating a venue to support residents’ wellbeing and connection.

“The upgraded space now boasts a modern community kitchen and offers CHL’s local residents in Ferntree Gully a comfortable place for meals, gatherings and support,” CHL’s community development manager Kate Daddo said.

“This space is the result of listening to our residents and what matters most to them. We’d long hoped to transform the shed into something fit-forpurpose, but it wasn’t possible without support.

“The amazing team at Opendoor fully funded the renovation, and we’re incredibly grateful to them and to the Workforce Australia Work for the Dole participants who poured such care and heart into bringing it to life.”

Opendoor’s Workforce Australia Work for the Dole coordinator, Granville Jones said they’re proud to be part of this project.

“Our team are really proud to have created this new space for CHL’s customers and community to enjoy,” he said.

“Projects like this give participants real work experience to help them prepare for and secure meaningful employment. Seeing their confidence grow and their team spirit shine throughout the project

was fantastic.”

TheWorkfortheDoleparticipantswereguidedby a qualified builder, to gain hands-on experience and building confidence while helping the community.

MaxHiltonisoneofthethreeyoungmeninvolved in the renovation.

“I was recruited to help the community and give people a space to come together and enjoy themselves. Seeing the transformation from what was once a rundown building makes me feel very accomplished, and I’d love to be involved in more projects like this in the future.”

Mr Jones also took time at the event to acknowledgethemanypeoplewhomadetheprojectpossible.

“First and foremost, I’d like to acknowledge

Andy, our outstanding builder, whose patience and guidance ensured the project was completed safely and efficiently, with zero incidents or injuries, this achievement is a testament to his commitment to quality and care,” he said.

“This project would also not have been possible without the generous support of our suppliers and the many dedicated staff working behind the scenes. We are sincerely grateful to everyone who joined us today and supported our participants throughout this journey.”

Community members, including residents, were also moved by the transformation.

Ferntree Gully resident and advocate for the new hub Ms Tracey Watts said the experience had been overwhelming.

“When we got the keys on Friday to bring all our stuff back in, I just don’t have words,” she said.

“Considering what we started with…now to have such a beautiful space, and for everyone that’s put in everything that they’ve done, it’s incredible.”

“This is really about mental health. We’ve grown so close, celebrated birthdays, and now we feel like a family. For elders in the community, it takes the pressure off anxiety…we feel regenerated and revived.”

The new hub is fully accessible to all residents, and Workforce Australia at Opendoor’s regional manager, Ashlee Gervasi emphasised the wider impact of the project.

“Here are people living in potentially disadvantaged circumstances, they still gathered here and tried to cook, they barely had any cooking facilities, and they were having knitting classes,” she said.

“We spent approximately $80,000 from the Work for the Dole project funding to make this happen. It gives residents a place to belong, come together, check in and support one another. Our participants have gained valuable experience, skills and confidence they can take into their next job.”

Ms Gervasi said partnerships like this are vital.

“The work that Kate is doing is amazing…it’s already changed lives,” she said.

“It’s a space that will continue to give back to the community and all the residents here. Everyone who comes through it is empowered, and it’s incredible to see the community flourish.”

The Ferntree Gully community hub now features a modern kitchen, comfortable heated and cooled areas, and space for events, giving residents a renewed sense of place and belonging.

For Ms Watts, the future plans for the garden and outdoor space promise even more opportunities for residents to come together.

“We’d love to see fruit trees put in. Anything we add here will be accessible to the whole community. It was a community garden first, and it continues to be that way,” she said.

Upper Ferntree Gully CFA marks 100 years of service

By Tanya Steele

Upper Ferntree Gully Fire Brigade have celebrated 100 years of dedicated service with brigade members past and present on Saturday 21 February.

With over 200 people in attendance, the event featured several special guests and speakers, including CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan, who joined the celebration.

Serving his brigade for 53 years now and as a captain for two decades, Upper Ferntree Captain Peter Smith said the dinner had a cast of stars attend the festivities in Rowville.

“It was absolutely brilliant,” he said.

Other hillside brigades will also soon celebrate their centenaries, and Captain Smith’s mother, Irene, was also presented with a special accolade on the night.

“She’s our oldest living member of the brigade at 90 years old,” said Captain Smith.

As a life member, Irene has served her community for over 65 years now.

With dedication and community spirit running in the family, Captain Smith said the atmosphere on the night was wonderful, and he is very proud of his brigade and members.

“We are really excited about reaching this milestone, and it’s a privilege to lead such a passionate and enthusiastic group of members,” he said.

“We wouldn’t be doing what we’re doing if it wasn’t for the people who came before us, and without the new young recruits coming through.”

The brigade was originally formed to give an

organised fire service in the community in 1926, following the devastating Mount Dandenong fires, and John Schauble from the Sassafras-Ferny Creek brigade talked about the local history of the unit on the night and said that at the beginning of the century, Ferntree Gully was a very different place.

“This was essentially a farming and timber community, but one on the cusp of a significant transformation,” he said in his speech.

The 1926 fires burnt through over 400,000 hectares (an area equivalent to the fires this summer),

killing at least 31 people, injuring 700 and destroying more than 1000 structures.

Other brigades across the hills will also soon hit their own century service milestones.

In his speech, Mr Schauble said In the immediate aftermath of 1926, Victoria’s bush fire brigades movement was born.

“I would argue that the actual genesis of what would become the CFA lies in these fires, the fires of 1939 and 1944 and the two royal commissions that

followed simply provided the final shove,” he said.

“The fire seasons that followed were 1926, described by one historian as the holocaust years.”

“The fires led to the association of Bush Fire Brigades in 1926, a forerunner of the CFA, which was formed in 1945.”

Upper Ferntree Gully Fire Brigade has has been at the frontline of many major incidents locally and beyond, including the 1983 Ash Wednesday fires, 2009 Black Saturday fires and have always sent their members to help statewide.

Most recently, the brigade sent strike teams to assist with the Longwood, Walwa and Otways fires.

“We’ve been supporting across Victoria,” said Captain Smith.

The station also go in on the fun and had a open day to celebrate as well, In celebration of our 100th year, opening up for the community with large collection of memorabilia from over the years on display on Sunday 22 February.

Looking ahead, the brigade hopes to see recruitment and local engagement continue to rise.

“If you’re thinking about joining, why not come and give it a go?” Captain Smith said.

“Our doors are always open, and we welcome anyone who wants to get involved, learn new skills and be part of a supportive team here at Upper Ferntree Gully.”

“I’m very proud, I’m Upper Gully through and through,” said Captain Smith.

“I don’t call it a town, I call it the community,” he said.

Granville Jones hands over the keys to the upgraded shed. (537378)

Tracey Watts (in white dress) cuts the ribbon at the Ferntree Gully community hub opening celebration. (Shamsiya Hussainpoor: 537378)

Community members, residents and suppliers all came to celebrate the completion of the Ferntree Gully community hub. (537378)

Ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Ferntree Gully community hub. (537378)

A delicious spread prepared for attendees at the opening event. (537378)

The early station in 1979. (CFA media).

SENIOR LIVING

Thank you for your support

The Tudor Village Men’s Shed committee members recently celebrated five years of sponsorship from the Heritage Auto Group Lilydale.

In recognition of the generous support from Heritage Auto Group, the Men’s Shed presented a handcrafted wall clock, made from Mountain Ash.

Accepting on behalf of Heritage Auto Group, manager Kia Lilydale, Greg Ekfeld acknowledged the vital role groups like the Tudor Village Men’s Shed play in our community.

“By supporting a space where skills are shared, connections are built, and men support one another, we’re investing in the people and traditions that keep our local community strong,” Mr Ekfeld said.

“It’s a partnership that aligns with our respect for hands-on expertise, Heritage’s values, and long-term local involvement. It is about giving back to the community that supports us either through purchasing of vehicles or ongoing service and maintenance. We are thrilled to be giving back to the community that supports us as a business.”

The Tudor Village Men’s Shed continues to grow, currently with 95 members of which 60 are inducted to be able to fully use all the equipment in the Residents Workshop.

Paul Jones, secretary of the Tudor Village Men’s Shed, says a number of new members have commented that ‘the shed group and workshop’ convinced them to move into Tudor Village over other villages.

“We believe that the Workshop now presents a ‘wow’ factor to everyone that enters it for the first time.

We’ve made a lot of important layout changes over the Christmas period to improve the comfort for members and residents by upgrading our dust extraction and air filtering equipment as well as the fitting of an air conditioner (thanks to Tudor Village management).

All of this was achieved solely because of the generous Heritage Auto Group sponsorship. We have found that running a facility such as

we now have is an expensive operation and we have a Men’s Shed committee that ensures that this sponsorship meets all the requirements to

run a safe and operational Residents Workshop.

We’re very proud to be able to present Heritage Auto Group with this hand-made clock. It took about three hours for one of our members, Rod, to shape it on the bandsaw and lathe and hand polish it.

Another hour was spent applying the numbers which is time consuming due to having to meticulously arrange the numbers in the exact positions.

The mechanism, which we are able to source on-line, is then fitted, the clock tested over 24hrs and finally the plaque attached.

Just prior to Christmas The Men’s Shed group ran its first Residents Workshop pottery class for seven Tudor Village ladies and plans are to make this a regular activity now they have learnt to use the potters wheel.

The Men’s Shed members also recently completed a ‘relaxing area’ outside the Workshop where residents can sit and enjoy a coffee or have a barbecue.

L-R: Russell Boyle, Men’s Shed sponsorship manager; Haydon McDonald, president; Greg Ekfeld, Heritage Auto Group manager Kia Lilydale; Rod Collins, who hand-crafted the clock in the shed; Paul Jones, secretary. (Supplied)

Handcrafted from Mountain Ash, the Men’s Shed presented a clock to Heritage Auto Group Lilydale in thanks for five years of sponsorship. (Supplied)

SENIOR LIVING

‘I choose feeling at home’

For Bill and his wife, choosing where to begin their next chapter wasn’t a sudden decisionit was a feeling that grew over time.

Waterford Valley Lakes had been on their radar for some time.

“I’ve known the village for years,” Bill said.

They’d stop by, wander through, and picture what life there might look like one day.

So when Bill visited again last year, everything clicked.

“As soon as I walked in there, that was it for me. Straight away,” he said.

I choose space. I choose calm. I choose community.

What stood out most was the opennessboth in the landscape and in the people.

“This village seemed bigger than the others we visited, and more open,” Bill said.

It felt welcoming, peaceful, and intuitively right.

One moment shortly after moving in confirmed they’d made the perfect choice.

“When we first moved in, these six swans came up the little lake…they all got out at our bank and were looking over our fence,” Bill said.

A small, almost magical moment and one that captured the natural beauty that surrounds life at Waterford Valley Lakes.

A year on, the feeling remains.

“It is so secure. It’s so quiet…it’s the peacefulness here. It’s terrific,” Bill said.

But it’s not just the tranquil environmentit’s the people.

“Everybody says hello…our street is magnificent. The best street in the village,” he said.

For Bill and his wife, choosing Waterford Valley Lakes means choosing a lifestyle that feels genuine, easy and beautifully grounded.

A place where every day offers the freedom to live the way they want, unhurried, uncom-

plicated and supported by community. I choose Waterford Valley Lakes.

And I’d choose it again. Ready to choose your next chapter?

Discover the Keyton village that feels right for you.

Strolling by the Waterford Valley lakes, where streets meet serene waters. (Supplied)

Festival brings good vibes

By Tanya Steele

Tucked away in Upwey, the hills got their dancing shoes on for Burrinja Fest over the weekend.

The cultural centre was alive with people, upstairs and down, with musical acts, workshops, food and drinks and more on Saturday 28 February.

Music Producer at Burrinja, Ben Langdon said Burrinja were so excited to launch the event this year.

“We hope to watch it become a go-to annual

event for our community and everyone who visits,” he said.

The live music cranked all day, starting with the dulcet delights of Hannah Schmidl, followed by sets from Rebellious Bird, Tim Scanlan & Mana Okubo and finished with high-energy grooves from the Headphones Jones crew.

Local artist and art educator Rain White guided attendees through a art workshop exploring still-life collage and Gabby Willmott held a zen drawing session teaching people to use line drawing.

Bringing together dance and music, Celtic Links Inc held a workshop upstairs with local Irish dance group Victorian Irish Dance Academy, accompanied by live music from the newly formed band Wood Duck leading a ceili dance or two for people to join in on.

Vendors from Killik held a pop up for locals and the on site Satiate Cafe staff kept the food coming and radio station volunteers from 3MDR 97.1FM were on site to do live crosses on the radio, still celebrating their 40th year and locals got to try their hand at creating voice recordings on

the vibe from the day.

Local Fairy Poppy had a steady line for face painting for young and old alike, and people were spotted wandering through the groundbreaking Revisions exhibition to take a quiet moment. Langdon said when the Irish dancing finished upstairs and patrons flowed down into the theatre for Tim and Mana, he knew they had a dance party on their hands.

“Kids and adults jumped around blissfully for the next two hours,” he said.

“It filled me with such joy.”

International Women’s Day events in the Yarra Ranges

By Callum Ludwig

International Women’s Day (IWD) is coming up on Sunday 8 March, with a pair of free local events to celebrate it.

An exhibition and panel discussion with artist Ali Griffin will be held on Thursday 5 March at the Arts Centre in Warburton, while 3MDR Mountain District Radio is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a live broadcast at the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum (YRRM) in Lilydale on the day itself.

Ali Griffin said the exhibition features tall, larger than life-sized portraits of local ‘elder’ women from our own community.

“They engage you to literally look up, each portrait grows out of deep conversations and interviews, and are made to not only honour the sitter, but to show younger women that they can look forward to this time in their lives, the portraits include silhouettes of elder bodies, as a way of illustrating that no matter your body, style, shape or colour, we can be proud of them,” she said.

“The inspiration came from noticing how casually the word ‘elderly’ is used, and how much diminishment sits inside it, I wanted to cross out the ‘ly’ and reclaim the word elder.

“Across cultures, elders are wisdom keepers, leaders, story carriers so why have we stripped that reverence away from women, ELDERHOOD is my attempt to restore it, and create a ‘hood’ of elders.”

This exhibition ‘Pause in Transition: The El-

derhood Project’ is part of Ms Griffin’s ongoing body of work which came from questions that wouldn’t leave her alone about the experience of women ‘when care responsibilities change, work falls away, bodies shift, and experience begins to reorganise itself as knowing’.

Ms Griffin said she hopes people walk out thinking differently about older women, and consider them to be ‘elders’.

“I hope younger people are inspired to go home and ask the older women in their lives for their opinions, I hope older women feel a little taller, a little more visible, a little more powerful and feel comfortable to step into their own power,” she said.

“If visitors leave feeling curious instead of dismissive, respectful instead of indifferent, and aware that ageing is not a decline but a deepening, then I’ve done my job.

The panel discussion inside the exhibition will feature the portrait sitters, First Nations elder Aunty Merilyn Duff and Ms Griffin, held from 6pm with light drinks and refreshments provided.

Ms Griffin said older women are one of the most underrepresented groups in visual culture, yet these are women who have raised families, built businesses, led communities, survived enormous change and carry extraordinary resilience.

“They should be celebrated, honoured, elevated, seen and revered, art shapes how we see the world, if we don’t see older women represented with scale, dignity and complexity, we subconsciously absorb the message that they don’t mat-

ter,” she said.

“ELDERHOOD challenges that narrative, it says ‘Look again’, look properly, there is power here.

“Everyone probably has an elder in their lives but they may not look at them that way, I think it’s time to start seeing the value in our older women, and men, I know we’ll all benefit from what they’ve learned.”

The exhibition has been supported by the local community, including local youth organisations like The MISFIT Project.

On International Women’s Day, the 3MDR exhibition will open from 10am at the YRRM, with festivities lasting from 1am to 4pm.

3MDR station manager Nat Grant said the broadcast is a wonderfully vibrant way to celebrate live music and community voices in the Yarra Ranges.

“International Women’s Day provides us with an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women and gender-diverse people, particularly those whose voices are often underrepresented in mainstream media and culture,” they said.

“It’s about acknowledging both the progress that has been made and the work still needed to achieve gender equality — whether that’s greater representation, respect, opportunity, or visibility.

“Whether your readers tune in on their radio, listen online, or come along in person, this broadcast is a celebration of community, connection and culture, it’s inclusive, uplifting and reflective

of the many ways women contribute to our local creative life.”

The broadcast will feature live sets from Hannah Schmidli and Beck Sian from 2 – 4pm

YRRM exhibitions curator Maddie Reece and museum engagement coordinator Mel Hartigan said hosting 3MDR on IWD is a great way to celebrate the success of their anniversary exhibition ON AIR: Broadcasting Local Legends.

“3MDR have been championing diversity on their airwaves since the station started in the late 1980s and this event continues that tradition.

“This event is important to the Museum, as it not only highlights the dedicated individuals that have made 3MDR an institution for the last four decades, but also showcases their achievements, community support and grass roots origins. Fundamentally it ties deeply into the YRRM’s ethos in closing the gender recognition gap.

“As an organisation who deals with a past that is highly focussed on ‘his’-tory, events such as this help us to keep pushing for women’s rights and recognition and begin to write a new timeline that is inclusive for all genders and cultures.”

RSVP is required to secure a spot for both events: yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Explore-Yarra-Ranges/Events/Pause-in-Transition-The-Elderhood-Project. yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Explore-Yarra-Ranges/Events/ON-AIR-3MDR-International-Womens-Day-Broadcast.

3MDR 97.1FM vollies on the day. (Tanya Steele: 537839).

A traditional ceili dance upstairs. (Tanya Steele: 537839).

Tim Scanlan & Mana Okubo get people dancing at Burrinja Fest. (Tanya Steele: 537839).

Headphone Jones bringing the energy at Burrinja Fest 26. (Tanya Steele: 537839).

Heading to Moomba Festival or the F1 Grand Prix?

Victoria’s Big Build works continue across the state with road disruptions on Clyde Road and the Eastern and Princes freeways. These works could impact your travel into Melbourne to attend the F1 Grand Prix or Moomba Festival.

Eastern Fwy citybound lanes between Doncaster Rd and Bulleen Rd split into two sections with reduced speeds

Until late 2026

Point Cook Rd entry ramp to Princes Fwy closed Geelong-bound

Early March

Clyde Rd reduced to one lane in both directions between Enterprise Ave and Princes Fwy

Until mid 2026

BERWICK

A perfect week in paradise

By Lucy Waldron

THE moment the Save the Date landed in the mailbox, I knew this wasn’t going to be just another wedding, it was going to be an adventure. Printed in simple, bold letters was the location: Koh Tao, Thailand.

A destination wedding. A celebration in paradise.

For my cousin Jamie and his partner Hope, this was more than just a ceremony. It was a chance to bring together family and friends from the US, Argentina, and Australia for a week on a tiny island in the Gulf of Thailand, a place where time felt slower and joy came easily.

I imagined warm breezes, barefoot evenings, and the sound of the ocean in the background. And from the moment we arrived, Koh Tao delivered exactly that, and so much more.

Our first taste of island life came, quite literally, in a Thai cooking class. Hosted by Thai Cooking with Joy, we learned how a handful of humble ingredients could create flavours that lingered long after the plates were cleared.

The star of the class? Spring rolls. What looked simple turned into a hilarious test of rolling skills. Surrounded by the scent of sizzling garlic and an ocean view stretching to the horizon, it became one of those rare moments you want to bottle up forever.

The festivities officially kicked off with a welcome party. We’d spent the afternoon carefully perfecting hair and makeup, only to climb into the island’s version of a taxi: the back of a Ute.

Within minutes, curls unravelled, makeup melted, and any illusions of glamour were left on the roadside.

But it didn’t matter. Everyone arrived equally windswept, and somehow, that made it perfect. Under warm air and soft lights, conversations flowed, laughter echoed, and the night blurred into something quietly beautiful.

If the welcome party broke the ice, the Queens Cabaret melted it entirely. Drag queens lit up the stage with sequins, power ballads, and pure joy, a celebration of music and queer expression that had everyone on their feet.

It became one of the week’s most talked-about moments. If you ever visit Koh Tao, add this to your must-do list.

The next day brought calm seas and slow magic. We boarded a boat and drifted around the island’s reefs, snorkelling through crystal-clear water. Koh Tao, meaning “Turtle Island,” lived up to its name, we spotted a turtle gliding lazily beneath us, unbothered by its human audience.

There were also three baby blacktip reef sharks, darting through coral gardens as schools of colourful fish swirled around us.

Then came the big day. The wedding opened with a downpour, the kind that makes the world hold its breath. And just minutes before Hope walked down the aisle, the rain eased and the sun spilled across the shore.

With the ocean as a backdrop and loved ones gathered close, Jamie and Hope said, “I do.” It felt

cinematic, like the island itself had conspired to set the scene.

“Having our wedding celebrations on Koh Tao was a dream come true,” Hope said.

“Due to our families being from different countries, we decided to invite 60 of our closest

friends and family to our favourite little island in Thailand.

“Seeing everyone we love explore and enjoy Koh Tao was so special, and I am so grateful that everyone made the long journey to Thailand to be with us.”

For Hope and Jamie, the week was overwhelming in the best way possible.

“When you looked around and realised all these amazing people are here because of Jaime and I, we felt so loved and supported and were so happy to see everyone relaxed and on holiday mode,” Hope said.

The celebration stretched long into the night, shoes abandoned, music loud, laughter louder. The next day was slow and sun-drenched, spent lazing on a nearby island, letting the hours stretch like soft linen.

But Thailand had one last plot twist. A storm rolled in just as we left the island, turning our little boat ride into something straight out of an action movie.

Waves crashed, the wind howled, and we clung to the sides, laughing through the chaos. By the time we reached land, we were soaked, windswept, and grinning like fools.

Leaving Koh Tao was unexpectedly emotional. Teary hugs, promises to meet again, that quiet ache that comes from saying goodbye to something truly special.

A wedding had brought us together, but the island gave us so much more, shared adventures, new friendships, and the kind of memories that only happen when you’re far from home and fully in the moment.

Koh Tao, you were paradise.

Jamie and Hope Morley walked down the isle grinning ear-to-ear. (Supplied)

The spring rolls we made at Thai Cooking with Joy. (Lucy Waldron: 511543)

Wilderness and wild history

Long before you set foot on its black sand beaches, rugged South Georgia announces itself with a cacophony of wildlife sounds—thousands of penguins calling and massive elephant seals bellowing along the shore. Often called the Galápagos of the Southern Ocean, this sub-Antarctic island delivers nature on an extraordinary scale.

Where else can you stand before 250,000 breeding king penguins while elephant seals crowd the beach, with albatrosses overhead and snow-capped peaks rising inland?

A wildlife sanctuary unlike any other Wildlife defines South Georgia. Shorelines are blanketed with penguins—kings, gentoos, macaronis, and more—that jostle for space among fur seals and southern elephant seals. In mid-October and early November, the drama intensifies as male elephant seals battle for breeding rights.

Offshore, petrels, prions, and albatrosses wheel overhead, creating a birder’s paradise. Inland, glacier-carved landscapes, and hidden coves host macaroni penguins on steep, rugged cliffs. Every Zodiac landing with the Quark Expeditions team reveals another scene of rich biodiversity—an unfiltered look at one of the world’s most fertile breeding grounds for sub-Antarctic wildlife.

Walking in Shackleton’s footsteps

South Georgia is equally rich in history, and Quark Expeditions’ experts bring that legacy to life. This remote island marked the end of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s legendary 1916 expedition after his desperate open-boat voyage from Elephant Island. At Grytviken, one of the first Southern Ocean whaling stations, travellers visit Shackleton’s grave, where it’s tradition to raise a toast to the explorer’s memory.

For the especially adventurous, select voyages

offer the chance to hike the final stretch of Shackleton’s route to the Stromness whaling station, retracing his heroic footsteps.

Why travel with Quark Expeditions

Quark Expeditions has been polar-obsessed since 1991, when we became the first operator to take commercial travellers to the North Pole. Polar is all we do, and no other operator can say that. Our expedition team is the most seasoned and respected in the industry—and the largest in polar travel—which means guests get off the ship faster and more often. From Zodiacs and kayaks to helicopters, hiking, camping, biking and cultural immersion, we offer more ways to explore than anyone else.

Choose the South Georgia itinerary that’s right for you

Quark Expeditions offers a range of immersive South Georgia itineraries that enable you to explore other Antarctic regions on the same trip: an 18-day South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari; 20-day Penguins of the Far South: Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica; 20-day Falkland Islands and South Georgia: Wildlife Adventure, with an unprecedented six full days exploring South Georgia; and the 23-day Epic Antarctica: The Falklands, South Georgia and Crossing the Circle.

Get ready for the most unforgettable polar adventure imaginable.

South Georgia: A land teeming with wildlife and polar history.

Visiting: Sydney, Phillip Island, Melbourne, Burnie (Tasmania), Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, Hobart (Tasmania), Port Arthur, Eden, Sydney Celebrate

Complimentary

SPAIN & PORTUGAL DISCOVERY

Barcelona to Lisbon or vice versa

Discover Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital, known for its colourful streets and neighbourhoods. Immerse yourself with visits to Seville, Málaga and the Alhambra Palace.

8 DAYS • 3 COUNTRIES • 6 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • NOV 2026; FEB, APR-JUN, SEP-DEC 2027; JAN-JUN, SEP 2028

From $5,095pp in Veranda Stateroom

From $6,295pp in Penthouse Veranda

SPAIN, PORTUGAL & THE MEDITERRANEAN

Lisbon to Rome or vice versa

Circumnavigate the Iberian Peninsula, calling at Andalusian gems. Visit Barcelona and the Sagrada Familía.

15 DAYS • 6 COUNTRIES • 11 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • NOV 2026; JAN-JUN, SEP-DEC 2027; JAN-JUN, SEP 2028

From $8,495pp in Veranda Stateroom

From $10,295pp in Penthouse Veranda

GRAND MEDITERRANEAN

Istanbul to Lisbon or vice versa

Embark on a grand voyage across the Mediterranean to visit iconic cities and uncover the heritage of civilisations. Trace the French Riviera and circumnavigate Italy’s boot.

36 DAYS

From $33,295pp in Veranda Stateroom

From $40,795pp in Penthouse Veranda

No kids, voted world’s best

Private veranda stateroom

Nordic spa facilities

Shore excursions

Choice of 8 dining options

Wi-Fi & gratuities

Wine & beer served with lunch & dinner

24-hour room service

Newest small ship fleet

DUBROVNIK, CROATIA

Warning: Be snake-aware

Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics and first responders have been called to 171 suspected snakebites since November, and urge Victorians to stay vigilant for the slippery nope ropes if heading outdoors this Labour Day long weekend.

From 1 November 2025 to 21 February 2026, AV paramedics and first responders attended 48 incidents in Hume, 20 in Loddon Mallee, 25 in Barwon Southwest, 37 in Metro, 20 in Gippsland and 17 in Grampians (with another four cases not having a specified region).

AV Manager Emergency Management Rebecca Hirsch said of these cases, 165 people were transported to hospital.

“We’ve had some significant periods of hot weather this summer, and the long-range forecast for the Labour Day long weekend is looking like the perfect weather to be out and about… but that includes snakes,” she said.

“Most snakes in Victoria are venomous, and a bite can be life-threatening.

“Bites can often be avoided simply by being observant in areas that are likely to attract snakes, such as near rivers, long grass or sheds.”

“Victorians can also take preventative measures around their home by keeping their property clear of rocks, logs and building materials, and keeping grass short.

“If someone is suspected to have suffered a snake bite, even if you’re not sure, you should call Triple Zero (000) immediately.”

Karynn Tucknott, a surgical administrator from Alexandra, was cooling off in a local river on a scorching 44-degree day in January last year, when a leisurely dip turned into a life-threatening emergency.

Standing in the shallows with her niece, Karynn recalls shifting a submerged log when, to her shock, a snake swam around her.

“I didn’t realise I’d been bitten at the time,” she said. “It wasn’t until I got home and jumped in the shower that I noticed a bite mark on the back of my leg.”

After discovering the bite, Karynn called Triple Zero (000). “The ambulance arrived within minutes. By then, my vision was blurry, and I felt extremely unwell. I honestly thought I was going to die.”

Advanced Life Support (ALS) paramedics stabilised Karynn and transported her to the Northern Hospital under lights and sirens.

“I’m so grateful for the quick response and care I received. The paramedics were incredibly reassuring and helped to keep me calm.”

Karynn now hopes her experience will raise awareness and save lives.

“I want to encourage everyone to be snakeaware this summer. If you think you’ve been bitten, stay still and call for help,” she said.”

Snake bites may cause pain and swelling around the puncture wound, or there may be very few signs left on the skin. Symptoms that snake venom has entered your body may include dizziness, blurred vision, breathing difficulties, nausea, muscle weakness or paralysis.

Rebecca said there are some basic first aid steps people can take while waiting for an ambulance if they’re with someone who suffers a bite.

“If a snake bite victim is unresponsive and not breathing normally, you should begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR),” she said.

“If the patient is conscious, it is important to keep them still and reassured while waiting for help – only move them if it is too unsafe to stay put.

“Snake bites commonly occur on hands, feet or limbs, so applying a pressure immobilisation bandage to the affected limb can also make a big difference to the treatment and outcome of a snake bite incident.”

The Australian Resuscitation Council recommends applying a pressure immobilisation ban-

dage (snakebite bandage) starting at the fingers or toes and working up the arm or leg as far as possible, ensuring that the bite site is covered. If a bandage has already been applied to the bite, or if the bite is covered with clothing, the pressure immobilisation bandage should be applied over this.

If you don’t have a pressure immobilisation bandage, use a firmly applied regular bandage or an item of clothing at least 10-15cm wide.

Keep the patient as still as possible and, if able, use a splint of some kind to prevent movement of the affected limb. Do not remove the pressure immobilisation bandage until the patient gets to hospital.

People should not wash the site of the bite, as venom left on the skin can be used to help identify the type of snake and the anti-venom required.

Snake bite prevention and tips:

• Victoria’s snake season is typically between September and April.

• Always give snakes a wide berth and allow them the opportunity to flee.

• All snake bites should be considered a medical emergency.

• Most (but not all) Victorian snakes are venomous.

• Do not attempt to catch or kill a snake yourself.

• Bite marks may not be obvious – seek help immediately and call Triple Zero (000) if you suspect you have been bitten.

If you or someone you’re with is bitten:

• Remember DRSABC (Dangers? Responsive? Send for help. Open airway. Check for breathing. Start CPR if required)

• Call Triple Zero (000)

• Keep patient still and reassure them

• Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage

• Splint the limb to prevent movement

• Wait with the patient until help arrives

• Heat health resources are available in multiple languages at www.ambulance.vic.gov.au/ translated-resources

Students get left behind as school buses get busier

By Callum Ludwig

The start of the school year has seen students stuck with the teething problems of a new government initiative.

The new Youth myki which provides free public transport for those under 18 years old has seen an uptick in kids on buses, but the service is struggling under the added strain.

Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence said since the start of the school year, students in our community have been left stranded as a result of a complete lack of school bus services to Lilydale and Mooroolbark schools.

“Parents, students and school principals have contacted me distressed about the situation that has caused students to be squashed and unsafe on overcrowded buses, left stranded at bus stops unable to get to school, or forced to disembark because bus doors won’t close,” she said.

“I’ve spoken to a number of secondary school students who have told me how crammed and unsafe the buses are – the situation the government has created here putting young students at risk is totally unacceptable.

“We should be doing more to encourage students to take public transport, not less. The government’s free travel on public transport for under 18s can only work if the government also ensures there’s sufficient services, otherwise it is a hollow promise.”

One Lilydale school confirmed to the Star Mail that they had experienced some issues, including a ‘Mexican stand-off’ with a bus driver who insisted some students disembark before he left the school bus bays.

Ms Vallence said Ventura tried adding additional services only to be told by Transport Victoria to withdraw them due to a lack of funding.

“The Allan Labor Government simply has not planned properly and it’s inexcusable that their Department of Transport is refusing to rectify the situation or fund more bus services to ensure children can get to and from school safely,” she said.

“Students and families have every reasonable expectation that there will be enough school buses to meet demand.

“Students have told me they’re worried the government just won’t bother to put on more buses that are needed. The situation has left many children distressed and anxious, which hinders their learning for the day.”

The Lilydale school also reported some students being late as buses that had hit capacity would skip their stop.

Ms Vallence said she has written to the Minister for Public Transport twice but has not received a response.

“I’ve also asked a question on the floor of Parliament, for which the Minister is required to respond by mid-March,” she said.

“After a decade of financial mismanagement, the Allan Labor Government’s promise of free travel for students is hollow because they cannot afford enough bus services.

“This is a situation the government must fix now, and I’ll keep calling on them to put on more urgently required bus services for our local students.”

The circumstances at the Lilydale school have somewhat settled, potentially due to affected families organising alternative arrangements.

A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said they undertake regular reviews of school bus services to monitor demand from students attending their zoned school and make improvements.

“We will continue to work with schools to identify and provide students with transport options to get to school,” they said.

School bus services are provided for students who are attending their zoned school and live too far from school to walk or ride to school, and have no access to public transport.

Families are also advised to use the Journey Planner on the PTV app to identify other transport options, including local buses on the public transport network.

Students have been left behind due to overcrowded buses at the start of the school year. (File)

Be wary of snakes this long weekend. (File)

Importance of Wills

Why it is important to know about your options when it comes to Wills, Powers of Attorney and medical-decision making documents.

Putting your affairs in order might not be the easiest topic to think about, but it’s one of the most important.

No matter your age or situation, understanding options around Wills, Powers of Attorney and medical decision-making documents is crucial.

These legal documents help to ensure that rights and wishes are respected and loved ones are protected, giving valuable peace of mind. Here’s why it matters:

Your wishes are followed:

A valid Will helps to ensure your property is distributed the way you want, rather than being guided by default government rules. Without a will, your assets may go to people you didn’t intend, sometimes leading to family stress and/or disputes.

Finances and personal matters are managed by someone you have chosen:

An Enduring Power of Attorney gives you the option to choose who will make your day-to-day decisions if you lose capacity to do so yourself. This includes choosing where you live and who you see, and managing your finances and other assets.

Your chosen Attorneys could be people you know and trust (e.g. family or friends), or professional services.

Medical care choices are respected:

Appointing a Medical Treatment Decision Mak-

Riveting!

Send Help

Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien

4.75/5

Send Help is a riveting, devilishly funny survival thriller film directed by dark comedy veteran Sam Raimi.

Driven corporate strategist Linda Liddle (Rachel McAdams), who is constantly devalued and belittled by her employers, washes up on a remote island after a plane crash with her jerk boss Bradley Preston (Dylan O’Brien).

Linda thrives and grows more assertive as she puts her survival skills to use, with McAdams as a tough-as-nails, sometimes scary yet deeply endearing lead, and O’Brien is so entertainingly detestable as Bradley.

The film conjures an almost idyllic atmosphere from its beautifully-shot island setting, but an intense current of desperation and resentment from Bradley, and the eerie sense that not all is as it seems, keep us on our toes, yielding crackling dialogue and several tense set-pieces.

The tightly-paced plot also has some really subtle, well-seeded details for the ingeniously twisted finale.

Send Help’s island is a macabre microcosm of how women often have to work so hard to prove themselves to sexist men who underestimate and undervalue them, but one scene may go a little too far (and no, it’s not the surgery scene you’ve probably heard about online).

This moment involving innocents somewhat dented my sympathy for Linda, but it’s supposed to challenge and unsettle you.

After all, this scene – and the film as a whole – takes Linda’s hard-fought self-worth and agency to a gnarly extreme.

By the way, the marked tonal and venue change in the climax may be jarring for some viewers, but I had no problem with it, as it was so fun and well-executed.

A taut, immensely entertaining survival thriller with a remarkable lead performance from Rachel McAdams, Send Help is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

Legal matters

Anita Koochew Eastern Community Legal Centre

er allows you to nominate someone you trust to make decisions about medical treatment on your behalf, and an Advance Care Directive is a document that states your values and preferences regarding future medical treatment.

An Advance Care Directive can support your Decision Maker and health professionals to make informed choices that are guided by your wishes if you lose capacity to make those decisions for yourself.

Helps prevent family conflict: Clear, legally binding documents minimise misunderstanding and ease the burden on loved ones during already stressful periods.

Stay in control:

By making these plans early, you decide what happens to your finances, your personal matters and your medical decisions.

Without these documents, decisions may be deferred to courts or tribunals who may have limited insights into your personal circumstances

CARTOON

and wishes.

Taking time to prepare these documents isn’t just a legal task, it’s an act of self-care. It protects the things that are important to you, supports you and your family’s well being, and provides clarity and peace of mind when it matters most.

It may also help to reduce the risk of your rights and wishes being ignored in the future.

Many people delay making a Will, a Power of Attorney and their medical decision-making documents because they think it’s complicated, expensive and doesn’t apply to them, or it’s uncomfortable/taboo to discuss, but getting started is easier than you might think.

ECLC offers regular free information sessions on Wills, Powers of Attorney and medical decision-making documents.

These sessions help community members understand their rights and options, and guide participants through the process step by step. Sessions are available both online and in-person across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

To find out more and/or register for an upcoming session, visit eclc.org.au/wills.

ECLC provides free legal help to people who live, work, or study in the region, offering services that are caring, accessible, and culturally respectful.

For an appointment, call 1300 32 52 00 or use the online appointment request form eclc.org. au/help.

Please note ECLC does not assist people with the making of their Powers of Attorney or Wills.

Irish history celebrated

The Round

Ireland – The Voyage

From the producers of Celtic Illusion comes a powerful new theatrical experience in Ireland: The Voyage.

An epic celebration of Ireland’s history, heart, and heritage brought to life through authentic voices, live music, and world-class Irish dance.

Emotional, exhilarating, and deeply immersive, Ireland: The Voyage invites audiences to feel the pulse of a nation – its triumphs, its tragedies, its music and its unbreakable spirit, in a live experience they’ll never forget.

Season: Friday 6 March at 7.30pm.

Paul Tabone Salutes Andrea Bocelli

Starring international tenor Paul Ettore Tabone, his spectacular concert celebrates the soaring beauty and emotional power of the music made famous by Andrea Bocelli.

With his golden voice and commanding stage presence, Tabone delivers an evening of elegance, passion, and unforgettable music.

Described by the BBC as “Australia’s own Andrea Bocello”, Tabone has become one of the world’s most exciting tenors.

His international career spans London’s West End and Broadway appearances at the Sydney Opera house, The National Opera Bucharest, also Teatro Carlo Felice, and beyond.

He is widely recognised for his record breaking 1999 performance in The Phantom of the Opera on London’s West End.

Season: Friday 13 March at 2pm.

Gem coplayers

Open Stage Nights

Welcome one and all to Gemco’s ongoing Open Night Stage.

Kemp’s curtain call

Hosted by Carol, the popular open stages has been running for many decades.

Held in a the cosy hall, you are welcome to perform anything you like or just come for the entertainment.

Enjoy music, poetry, singing and monologues or anything.

Season: 7 March From 7pm – 10.30pm.

Lilydale Athenaeum theatre The Female of the Species.

Margot Mason is a feminist writer suffering from writer’s block.

Molly Rivers, her former student, arrives unexpectedly at her country home with a gun, blaming Margot for warping her mother’s mind with her best-selling book.

Chaos ensues leading to a comic but tense encounter.

Margot’s daughter, her son-in-law, her publisher and a taxi a taxi driver also arrives to comment on Margot’s feminist failings and the expectations placed on female public figures.

The plot is loosely based on an incident that happened to Germaine Greer.

Season: 23 April – 9 May.

A very dark fantasy novel

PASSION FOR PROSE

Alchemised, by American author SenLinYu, is the winner of the 2025 GoodReads Choice Award for Readers’ Favourite Debut Novel, based on more than 165,000 votes.

This reviewer was not among those voters, but felt intrigued enough by all the praises out there to take a plunge into this 1030-page brick of a book.

And it was a richly rewarding read.

The story is a brilliant and masterful illustration of an elaborate yet terrifying civil war where the protagonist Helena Marino once served as a healer for the Resistance.

Now the war has ended, with the country ruled by necromancers, Helena finds herself imprisoned, interrogated and tortured for information about the possible re-emergence of Resistance fighters.

Trouble is, Helena’s memories have been erased by magic, and her captors are trying everything imaginable and utterly despicable to uncover the secrets in her head.

Eventually she is handed over to The High Reeve, the thoroughly ruthless and ultra-efficient mass murderer Kaine Ferron, himself an accomplished necromancer.

The story is definitely not for the fainthearted.

Consider the fact that the author has drawn inspiration from the TV adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale (1985), readers can imagine how depictions of the battles are full of ghastly details.

On one side is the Order of the Eternal Flames, whose followers are convinced they are invincible as long as they remain faithful and virtuous.

Helena’s struggle to fit in and the sacrifices she makes to ensure the Order’s survival are the most heart-wrenching part of the story.

On the other side are the necromancers, who reanimate those enemies they have slaughtered as their own soldiers.

The atrocities they commit are brutal, vicious and entirely gruesome, and the detailed descriptions of the various types of dark magic and their horrific, devastating consequences are absolutely mind-blowing.

However, despite it being darkly macabre, the story explores the great lengths one is willing to go to protect their loved ones.

More importantly, it sheds considerable light on the terrible and long-lasting trauma that war can inflict on individuals and communities, both emotionally and psychologically – and not just those involved in frontline fighting but also those unsung heroes who work tirelessly in field hospitals.

Meanwhile, the story tackles such multifaceted problems such as power struggles and corruption in politics, as well as the systemic oppression and exploitation of women.

In the latter case, not only are women’s voices silenced, their work undervalued and their contributions ignored, but their agency and legacy are also denied.

This adds another layer of dread and misery to the already deeply upsetting tale that is Helena’s life.

Do NOT read this story if you are squeamish.

But, if you are into complex three-dimensional characters, thrillingly intense actions, mind-boggling magic systems and unflinchingly extensive investigations of the impact of war, then you have to read Alchemised.

CASH FOR UNWANTED GOLD & JEWELLERY!

Turn your unwanted jewellery and gold and precious items into CASH

Your Questions Answered

HOW DO I DO THIS?

Show your items to our expert buyers. After we have calculated the price based on its resale value, you can then decide to sell them to us or just walk away with a free assessment of your jewellery!

WHY SELL?

Is it worth keeping old jewellery that you will never wear again? The extra cash may help now or in the future rather than unwanted jewellery sitting in your drawer!

We buy all gold Jewellery, Antiques & Contemporary Jewellery Diamonds, Silver Jewellery, Gold Sovereign Coins and other coins, Precious Stones, Including Broken Jewellery and Watches and unusual Items

“Your Jewellery maybe worth a lot more than what you think!”

CHARMING 1920’S HOME WITH COTTAGE

TIMELESS 1920’S CHARM IN THE HEART OF EMERALD WITH SEPARATE COTTAGE

POSITIONED in the heart of Emerald and dating back to the 1920s, this character weatherboard home is a true Hills treasurebeautifully preserved, thoughtfully updated, and presented to perfection, all set on over 1 acre of useable space.

Just a short stroll to town, schools, and public transport, the home combines timeless charm, everyday convenience and undeniable street appeal. Cottage gardens frame the home, while a meandering boardwalk guides you to the welcoming front verandah - the perfect place to relax and watch the world go by.

Step inside and fall in love with the soaring high ceilings and original features that define this stunning residence, including a charming open fireplace, classic sash windows, and rich hardwood floors.

The home offers three spacious bedrooms, one with an extra study space, highlighted by a generous master suite complete with walk-in robe and full ensuite. In addition there is a gorgeous separate self-contained cottage, offering a bedroom, living space, and ensuite - ideal for guests, extended family, or potential additional income.

The freshly updated kitchen is simply magnificent, featuring stainless steel appliances, stone benchtops, and an abundance of cupboard and bench spacedesigned to impress and built for functionality. Ideal for family living, the home provides two separate living zones: a formal lounge at the front of the home and a second spacious living area at the rear adjoining bedrooms two and three and it own private balcony - perfect for children or teenagers seeking their own retreat.

Year-round comfort is assured with mains gas ducted heating, ducted cooling for the warmer months.

Outdoors, entertaining is effortless with a large covered balcony overlooking the fully fenced rear yard, complete with a generous flat lawn area for children and pets to enjoy.

For tradies, hobbyists, or those needing storage, the 6m x 5m shed with concrete floor and power is a standout feature, and with dual driveway access, bringing in trailers, boats, or trucks is effortless.

This is truly one of the Hills’ special homes - rich in history, full of heart, and ready for its next chapter.

Call us and inspect today. ●

FLAT, SUNNY AND SET IN A STUNNING LOCATION

NESTLED in the heart of the enchanting Kallista village, 1 Anderson Street presents a rare opportunity to secure a complete family lifestyle package in one of the Dandenong Ranges’ most picturesque settings. Positioned on an impressive 1,966sqm (approx.) flat, sunny allotment in a quiet no-through road, and just moments from world-class walking trails, this beautiful residence delivers space, comfort and timeless charm in equal measure.

Warm and welcoming, the home opens to a generous front lounge where a crackling wood fire and rich bamboo flooring create an inviting ambience for relaxed family living. Privacy pocket doors enhance functionality, while the seamless flow of floorboards throughout adds cohesion and warmth.

The stunning main bedroom is privately positioned and bathed in natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows. Complete with a walk-in robe, enviable ensuite, split system heating and cooling, and ceiling fan, it offers a peaceful retreat for parents.

At the rear, expansive open plan living and dining is framed by double-glazed windows and doors that capture tranquil views of the deck and lush gardens beyond. The gourmet kitchen is a true centrepiece, boasting a 5-burner gas range, farmhouse sink, butcher block benchtops, and breakfast bar a space designed for effortless entertaining and everyday family connection.

Large windows throughout the home invite in an abundance of natural light, ensuring amazing sun and warmth year-round.

Seamless indoor-outdoor flow leads to a substantial covered wrap-around deck the perfect setting for entertaining, relaxing with

HOME ESSENTIALS

a morning coffee, or hosting family gatherings while enjoying the peaceful garden surrounds in every season.

Accommodation is thoughtfully tailored for growing families, with three additional bedrooms, a luxurious main bathroom featuring a deep soaker tub, a guest powder room, and a cleverly designed updated laundry with abundant storage. Attic storage with ladder access further enhances practicality

and ensures every inch of the home is well utilised. There is also an 8kw solar system as an added convenience.

Outdoors, the landscaped grounds are equally impressive. An open lawn area, charming hen house, single garage with single covered recreational vehicle parking, and second gated driveway ensure flexibility for vehicles, hobbies, and lifestyle needs. The sparkling inground swimming pool is a

Address: 1 Anderson Road, KALLISTA Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,195,000- $1,299,000 Inspect: By appointment

Contact: Brad Conder 0422 639 115 and Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 9754 6888

standout feature, complete with glass fencing, salt chlorination, cartridge filter, and electric heat pump - promising year-round enjoyment for family and friends.

Framed by beautiful gardens and peaceful surrounds, this exceptional property offers the perfect blend of character, comfort and contemporary convenience. Inspection will impress. ●

FLAT LAND, DAM VIEWS, 1940’S ART DECO CHARM

POSITIONED in the very heart of Menzies Creek, 8 Menzies Road is a rare offering — perfectly flat 1,963m² land paired with sweeping views across Cardinia Dam.

In the Hills, level land of this size is gold. Here, it provides the ideal canvas to extend, renovate or create your forever home (Subject to Council Approval), all while enjoying a breathtaking natural outlook. Watch world famous Puffing Billy pass by your back fence.

The residence itself proudly reflects its 1940s Art Deco origins. Decorative ceilings, elegant proportions and beautiful timber floors speak to a time of enduring craftsmanship. Large picture windows draw in garden greenery, while the sun filled multipurpose room creates a space to create your own office, craft room, or play room.

The current floorplan comprises two bedrooms and one bathroom, with defined living and dining zones connected to a central kitchen. A classic fireplace anchors the living space, adding warmth and character, while the home’s original features offer the perfect foundation for thoughtful restoration or contemporary enhancement.

Outside, the expansive, level grounds are framed by established trees and garden beds, offering privacy, usability and space rarely found in this location. Whether you envision a substantial extension, landscaped outdoor entertaining zones, or simply room for children and pets to roam freely, the potential here is exceptional.

With easy access to local cafes in Emerald and Belgrave, the lifestyle is as appealing as the land itself. Just 10 minutes from Belgrave Train Station and easy access to the M1 and M3 freeways.

A tightly held position.

A flat, near half-acre.

Views of Cardinia Dam extending to Mornington Peninsula and Port Phillip Bay.

An extraordinary opportunity to honour the past while building something remarkable for the future. ●

INCREDIBLE UPWEY SOUTH LIVING

PERFECTLY positioned in the tightly held and highly sought-after Upwey South pocket, 13A Bayview Avenue delivers lifestyle, flexibility and comfort in one impressive package. With a peaceful, leafy outlook and easy access to local schools, parklands, public transport and the vibrant Upwey township, this is a location families absolutely love.

Designed with versatility in mind, the home offers a flexible layout ideal for growing families or those seeking extra space. The opportunities are endless with the lower section of the house as a Home Office / Teenagers Retreat or Man-Cave with all the hard work already done providing separation and privacy while still being connected to the heart of the home.

Upstairs, the light-filled open plan kitchen, living and dining area forms the true hub of the home. The kitchen is perfectly positioned to overlook the living space with SS cooktop, rangehood and dishwasher, creating an easy flow for everyday family life and effortless entertaining. Year-round comfort is ensured with ducted heating, split system air conditioning and ceiling fans.

Stepping outside, you’ll find a fantastic undercover decking area ideal for year-round gatherings, weekend BBQs or simply relaxing while enjoying the peaceful surrounds. The fully fenced backyard offers security for children and pets, along with plenty of space to enjoy.

Additional features include 2 separate carports and plenty of off-street parking perfect for other vehicles, trailers or caravans with excellent accessibility.

Homes in this prized Upwey South location are always in strong demand. Combining flexible living zones, great outdoor entertaining and a family-friendly setting, 13A Bayview Avenue is an opportunity not to be missed. ●

EASY LIVING IN PEACEFUL COCKATOO

SET on 837sqm in a quiet Cockatoo setting, just moments from town and local schools, this solid three-bedroom brick home offers relaxed living in a location that simply makes sense.

An undercover front verandah welcomes you inside to a spacious, carpeted lounge and dining zone filled with natural light from large windows. A split system and gas ducted heating throughout ensure year-round comfort, whether it’s crisp Hills mornings or warm summer afternoons.

The kitchen is well-equipped for daily living, featuring a gas stovetop, dishwasher, generous pantry, and excellent storage options to keep everything neatly tucked away. Down the hallway, three bedrooms—each with built-in robes—are serviced by a central family bathroom with a separate toilet, making the layout practical for families or guests. Outside, the fully fenced yard offers space for children and pets, with 2 garden sheds and single carport rounding out the package.

A solid, easy-care home in a quiet location — ready to move straight in and enjoy, with room to personalise over time.

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

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

AOne-of-a-KindOff-GridHaveninGembrook!

Seton5 privateacreswithtwospring-fedcreeks,thisremarkablefour-bedroomhomeisanoff-grid retreatlikenoother.A horseshoedrivewayleadsto awideverandahembracingsweepingviews. Inside,soaringceilings,exposedbeamsandtimberfloorsframetheopen-planloungeanddining withwoodfire,ceilingfanandbararea.Thekitchenblendsrusticcharmwithfunction,offering mahoganyandblackwoodbenches,walk-inpantry,hiddenfridge,dishwasher,gas/electriccooking andanIrishStanleyslowcombustionstove.Themasterincludes awalk-throughrobeandensuitestylebathroom,whileupstairstwofurtherbedroomsandduallivingzonescapturetreetopviews. Sustainabilityshineswitha 48vsolarsystem,generatorbackupandmultipleheating/coolingoptions. Withunder-housestorage,a 6m x6mcarportandtotalprivacy,thisisnotjusta home—it’sa lifestyle.

M 0438680032

CharmingHomein aTranquilGardenSetting. Setonalmostone-thirdofanacre,thischarmingdouble-storeybrickhomeofferspeacefulliving surroundedbybeautiful,bird-filledgardens. Awideundercoververandahwrapsaroundthreesides, creatinginvitingoutdoorspacestosit,relax& enjoythenaturalsetting.Inside,9ftceilings,polished floorboards,gasductedheating& double-hungwindowsenhancethehome’swelcomingfeel. Thecentraltimberkitchenincludesanislandbench,greatstorage, adishwasher,walloven &gas stovetop,flowingtobothformal& informallivingareas.Upstairs,theprivatemastersuitefeaturesa walk-inrobe,ensuite& studynook,whiletwoadditionalbedroomswithtriplerobesshare acentral bathroom.Outside,thefullyfencedyardisidealforchildren& pets,withanundercoverentertaining area,circulardriveway,remotedoublegarage &highcarportperfectfor acaravanorboat.

$1,350,000-$1,470,000

ABotanicalWonderlandSurroundinga TrulyUniqueHome. Thisextraordinaryresidenceis araremasterpiece,shapedbydecadesofcraftsmanshipandset withinbreathtakingstorybookgardensonnearly1.5acres.Everydetailreflectstimelessartistry— fromcorbelsandtessellatedtilestoleadlight,bluestonefeatures,andsoaringceilings.Atitsheart, acircularbluestone-and-glassconservatoryinvitesyoutopauseandtakeinthelushgardenviews. Twoprivatewingsinclude amainsuitewithwalk-inrobe,ensuite,anddeck,plus aguestsuitewithits ownensuite.A formalloungewithopenfireplace,elegantdiningroom,officewithJarrahcabinetry, anda granite-toppedkitchencaterbeautifullytodailylivingandentertaining.Additionalspaces includea rumpus,cellar/workshop,studio,secondgarage,and5kWsolar.Despiteitsserenesetting, thehomeisjustmomentsfromEmerald’scharmingvillageandPuffingBilly.

AaronDay M 0407365994

BrennanMileto M 0422996451

3

189SwalesRoadMacclesfield$1,750,000 -$1,900,000

ARare40-AcreHoldingwithWater,Views &EndlessPotential. Spanning40gentlyundulatingacres,thissun-filledruralholdingdeliversspace,watersecurity& seriouspotential.A windingcreek,3 dams &a valuable2-megalitrewaterlicenceprovide arocksolidfoundationforlifestyleliving,livestockorfuturevision.Elevatedpointsacrossthelandcapture sweeping360-degreeviews,creatingthosepostcardmomentswherethecountrysiderollsawayin everydirection.Atthecentresits aneat& original2-bedroomhome,comfortablenow& readyfor renovation,extensionorreinventionovertime.Practicalinfrastructureincludesa machineryshed, garage &establishedcattlerace& yards,makingthepropertyimmediatelyusableforfarmingor hobbystock.Withsunnypaddocks,naturalwatersources& multipleaccesspoints,everythingisin placeforeasyruralliving.

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Donders to coach AFLW

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Richmond Football Club has announced the appointment of Jarrad Donders as head coach of its AFL Women’s team for the 2026 season.

The former Emerald Football Netball Club player in the Yarra Ranges Football and Netball League is expected to bring a wealth of experience both on and off the field.

Before embarking on his coaching career, Mr Donders worked as a physical education teacher at Emerald Secondary College and also served as assistant principal, where he established an extra-curricular AFL program.

“I know you girls are craving that structure to move into the 2026 season,” Mr Donders said dur-

ing an internal club announcement.

“I fully believe in the potential of this group as well and the direction that we’re heading. Ultimately, I’m really excited to get to work with you and what this playing list is capable of, and essentially leading us to the premiership success that we want.”

Mr Donders’ coaching journey began at Emerald Football Club at junior level before moving into the Hawthorn NGA program as an assistant coach in 2018 and 2019.

He later joined the Eastern Ranges Boys in the Talent League as a forward coach in 2022, and in 2024 was appointed head coach of the Eastern Ranges Girls.

Under his guidance, the team reached the

grand final in 2024 and went on to win the championship the following year.

He also coached Vic Metro at the Under-18 Championships in 2025.

Richmond’s chief executive officer, Shane Dunne praised Mr Donders for his leadership and commitment to player development.

“Jarrad is highly driven and genuinely invested in developing people, not just coaching players,” Mr Dunne said.

“His experience with Victoria Metro and the Eastern Ranges shows he understands the AFLW pathway and what it takes to prepare athletes for elite standards. Beyond just developing young talent, he has an ambition to make our program world class, which is really exciting.”

Mr Dunne also highlighted the cultural impact he expects Mr Donders to have at Richmond.

“He will build a connected and accountable environment. Jarrad is big on feedback, growth and alignment both culturally and performancewise,” Mr Dunne said.

“We are building for sustained success, and he brings elite system experience and strong leadership. That combined with his passion for the game makes him the ideal coach for us.”

Mr Donders acknowledged the work ahead as he prepares to lead Richmond into the 2026 AFLW season.

“I understand the work that’s needed to undertake and where we need to go now. So all the fun stuff’s over. It’s time to get to work,” he said.

5pm Friday 20th March 2026. For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visit www.rfnsa.com.au/3158001 Service Stream Ltd A.B.N. 46 072 369 870 Telstra Ltd A.C.N. 086 174 781

Jarrad Donders with his family (Supplied)

Jarrad Donders has been appointed as Richmond AFLW coach.

Belgrave junior footy boost

By Tanya Steele

As a local club celebrates its 10th anniversary of their first girls’ football team, they have also welcomed news of a sports grant from the State government.

The Belgrave Junior Football Club has received a grant from the sporting club grants program from the Victorian government for round one.

The program funds community sport and active recreation organisations across Victoria, and Belgrave Junior Football Club president Melania Serwylo said they would like to thank the State Government for the generous grant.

“This funding will go towards new playing jumpers for our newest teams - the Under 10 Girls and Under-8 Mixed.” she said.

Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino said she was proud to be supporting local scout and sporting clubs because they sit at the heart of our communities, helping young and older people stay active, connected and healthy.

“Congratulations to all of our grant recipients,” she said.

“We are grateful for the State Government’s commitment to supporting children to get active, connect with their friends and participate in team sports,” said Ms Serwylo.

Access to this funding helps grassroots clubs and organisations address barriers in participation, develop safe and sustainable practices and build social and active local communities.

Ms Serwylo said it plays an important role in helping us support our players.

“It helps by providing quality uniforms and the resources they need to develop and succeed, both on and off the field,” she said.

The junior club has been going through positive changes and Ms Serwylo said that over the past decade, their mixed, boys’ and girls’ programs have grown significantly.

“Along the way, we have seen young players build not only their football skills, but also confidence, resilience, teamwork skills and lifelong friendships,” she said.

“The introduction of our youngest teams reflects our ongoing commitment to inclusivity and creating opportunities for all children to participate in sport.”

“We look forward to the future and continuing to grow and strengthen our teams at Belgrave for many years ahead.”

The sporting grants have five funding categories: on-field uniforms or equipment, volunteers and officials, access and events, travel and governance and engagement.

Round two of the State Grant applications just opened on Wednesday 25 February and close on 4pm Tuesday 7 April.

registrations

Midweek finals and club championships at the bowls club

By Rob Wilson

After a very successful home and away season in which all 3 teams secured finals births the Midweek pennant teams should head into the finals feeling good about themselves and expecting competitive performances. Midweek Chairman of selectors Eric Markham said that “ we are very pleased with our results this season and I feel confident that we will do well in the finals. Along with our finals appearances we have added a number of new players to our teams so combined with our good results, all in all I reckon the club has had a good season and is in good shape”. Team 1 Division 1

Finishing in fourth place meant the Hawks top side would travel to Donvale to play the 3rd placed team. With an extraordinarily extreme weather forecast hanging over the day there was always a fair chance that forces beyond bowls would have an impact on the finals. Getting underway in hot and humid conditions there was absolutely nothing in this contest from the first bowl to the last with the margin staying within a few shots throughout. All tied up at the break it was obvious the weather was also going to have a say with a massive thunderstorm hitting the venue producing a suspension to play while the lightning threat abated. Once the game got back underway after about an hour delay nothing changed with the trend of the game, shot for shot and nothing in it with a few ends to go, when the storms returned and the skies once again opened up. Unfortunately, this time such was the volume of rain this time the game was not to resume being abandoned for the day. Leading by one shot

with just 6 ends to play Bowls Victoria ruled that Monbulk would have to return to Dovale on Thursday to complete those ends, so back to the flat lands we went to try and wrap it up. Sadly, the hard-earned result did no go the way of the Hawks losing by 4 shots ending the Hawks season and sending Donvale into the Prelim.

Jim Bras rink (29/8) of Eric Markham, Greg Myers and James Anderson would Grab the headline result with their stunning win. Jim himself had a great season and added this one to his list, Jim said “his rink was fantastic Eric played very well as did Greg and Jimmy”. Brian Smith (16/18) like the overall scoreline went in lock step with his opposition and was level at the postponement with one end left to play, which was ultimately dropped on return. Rob Wilson (6/29) was outplayed in this one and despite an outstanding

game by Karen Wilson and a very good season by the rink it was not to be their day.

Team 2 Division 3

A 2nd place finish on the ladder and a double chance was the reward for the Monbulk 2s and a visit to top side Chirnside Park to attempt to secure direct passage into a home Grand Final. Unfortunately, this game would also fall fowl of the weather with storms and rain annoying the combatants throughout the game eventually forcing a cancellation of play and a return for completion of 9 ends, this time with Monbulk trailing by 5 shots. But once again the postponement didn’t work for the Hawks eventually seeing them go down by 12 shots, but the good news is that this has not ended their finals campaign instead sends the team into a home preliminary final. Ray Pike (19/16) could only manage a daw

as did the rink of Graeme Goller (17/17) Margrett O’Brien, Louise Thomas, and Peter Koomen. Andrew Smith (13/25) couldn’t get on the winners list finding the going tough on this occasion. A home Preliminary final against Lilydale awaits our crew and we wish them well.

Team 3 Division 5

Three from Three of rain effected games and as of the posting of this report this result was not yet completed. The 3s finished 3rd to gain their home venue final against Healesville and were right in the game trailing by 5 shots with 3 ends to play when weather intervened. Coming back to complete this match win or lose the club is proud of their season but let’s hope there is a bit more life in the season for the Hawks by snatching this one at the death.

Karen Wilson wins Ladies singles Championship Amidst the busy focus on the pennant seasons and subsequent finals campaigns the Club Championships have been bubbling away behind the scenes. Karen’s win in her first year back at the club was an impressive one because the final was never going to be easy coming up against the star 5 time champion Jenny Holmes. With both ladies being high class players the standard of the final did not disappoint both bringing the best to the contest to make a terrific final. Finding a bit more quality and some big shots at vital moments Karen was able to grab the title and a position on the honour board for her first time. Congratulations Karen. The Men’s final will be contested by Rob Espernberger and Jack Pater on Wednesday night at 4.30pm.

As the countdown to the 2026 season begins, the Belgrave Junior Football Club still has

open for new players.

local community have kids who would like to join a fun, welcoming and family-friendly club, Ms Serwylo said they would love to

The state government grant funds will go towards new playing jumpers for Belgrave JFNC newest teams – Under 10 Girls and Under 8 Mixed. (Belgrave Junior FNC)).

Karen Wilson (right) celebrates her club championship victory after a hard-fought match against Jenny Holmes (left). (Supplied)

PUZZLES

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

1 Spawn, similar to caviar (3)

A person obsessed with themselves (10)

Part (7)

Sweet egg and milk dessert (7)

Convenient (9)

Parasitic plant (4)

Sent off (10)

Small island (4)

Cosy retreat (4)

Articles (10)

Sham (4)

Islands west of Central America (9)

Feeling (7)

Against the law (7)

Dishonest (10)

Period of 24 hours (3)

S in the NATO phonetic alphabet (6)

Privately (10)

16 Exaction (9)

18 Rummaged (9)

21 Debris (6)

22 Interval (6)

24 Scent (5)

25 Waterway (5)

26 Great Barrier – (4)

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

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