EASTERN SUBURBS EDITION
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Incorporating the traditions of the Booroondra Weekly, Box Hill Reporter, Whitehorse Gazette, Maroondah Mail, Knox-Sherbrooke News, The New Free Press and Monash Gazette.
‘The Local Paper’ is published by Local Media Pty Ltd
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2025
‘PREPARE FOR BAD FIRE SEASON’
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■ Manningham, Maroondah and Yarra Ranges municipalities are amongst the high fire risk areas in the state, according to Yarra Valley Water. The utility is urging customers in grass fire and bushfire-prone areas to include a water supply in their emergency plan. The Country Fire Authority has stated this year’s fire season could be the most dangerous since the 2009 Black Saturday fires. This is part of a trend of fire seasons starting earlier and lasting longer due to changing weather patterns. The fire danger period czame into effect in some local government areas across the Yarra Valley Water service area from last week and could continue through to May 2026. High-risk fire areas in Yarra Valley Water’s service area include the shires of Yarra Ranges, Nillumbik, Cardinia, Mitchell, and Murrindindi, and the cities of Hume, Whittlesea, Banyule, Manningham and Maroondah. Bridie Fennessy, General Manager Asset Services, Yarra Valley Water, said a reliable water supply cannot be guaranteed during a fire and preparation is crucial. “We all know grass fires and bushfires can happen at any time, with the potential to devastate properties and damage water pipes and tanks,” Ms Fennessy said. “During a fire, our customers could experience low water pressure, loss of supply or reduced water quality.”
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NEW MAYOR ELECTED FOR KNOX COUNCIL
■ Cr Paige Kennett has been elected Mayor of Knox City Council, with Cr Chris Duncan to serve as Deputy Mayor for the next year. Cr Kennett said that she was humbled and honoured to have the opportunity. “Thank you Councillors for the faith you have put in me to lead over the coming year,” she said. “I am looking forward to serving our community and achieving great outcomes with my colleagues.” “Community engagement is one of my passion areas. I will use my time as Mayor to encourage more community engagement with Council to better understand the issues that matter to the people we serve.” Cr Kennett was first elected to represent Chandler Ward in 2024. She has lived in Knox for over 20 years with her husband and three children. Cr Kennett thanked the outgoing Mayor Cr Lisa Cooper and Deputy Mayor Cr Glen Atwell for their service. “Together you have helped us create a better city based on what our community wants.” The new Deputy Mayor, Cr Chris Duncan, was first elected to represent Collier Ward in 2024.
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● Cr Paige Kennett has been elected Mayor of Knox City Council, with Cr Chris Duncan to serve as Deputy Mayor for the next year.
● There are two issues of The Local Paper remaining for 2025: December 3 (digital only) and December 10 (print and online).
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