Tuesday, 11 February, 2025
EACH picked to launch virtual clinic
Mums learn self-defence in Belgrave
Medieval fair fun in Yellingbo
Real estate liftout inside
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A Star News Group Publication
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Doing it for the kids By Afraa Koori The new Worrell Reserve Skate Park and Youth Plaza has officially opened, following funding support from the State Government and Cardinia Shire. The grand opening on 7 February was met with celebration from the local community. Among the special attendees were Cardinia Shire Mayor, Councillor Jack Kowarzik, State Member for Monbulk, Daniela De Martino MP, and former Ranges Ward Councillor, Jeff Springfield. Also present were Howard Winter and Kris Strong, chairman and secretary of the Worrell Recreation Reserve Community Asset Committee. The newly completed skate park and youth plaza features professionally designed ramps, grind rails, and various obstacles aimed at challenging skaters and bikers of all skill levels. In addition, the plaza offers ample space for relaxation and socialising, with a basketball court adding to its appeal. Read more on page 7
Sage from Boronia enjoying the new skate park at Worrell Reserve Skate Park and Youth Plaza. (Stewart Chambers: 457681)
Hollows a hoot By Tanya Steele An environmental group in Knox is seeing early signs of success in its efforts to support the powerful owl population, as artificial hollows designed for the species begin attracting a variety of local wildlife. The 3D-printed hollows, custom-designed for Victoria’s apex predator, have recently drawn several curious visitors, sparking excitement among local citizen scientists. Rown Jennion, President of Friends of Koolunga Native Reserve, expressed his enthusiasm
and said that the group has been tracking the appearance of multiple species exploring the newly installed hollows since their introduction in August 2024. “We’re excited to see and share that native wildlife are interested,” Mr Jennion said. “They’re showing they’re keen on hollows, looking for them, and this is part of the process for the artificial hollows to be naturalised.” Mr Jennion said that as different species visit, the hollows begin to take on a more natural look and feel, making them even more appealing to local fauna.
Dr Kylie Soanes, a researcher in urban ecology and conservation science at Melbourne University, said that the 3D hollow project was a collaboration between scientists and designers. “My job is about finding ways to make cities better places for nature and native wildlife,” Dr Soanes said. “We’re trying to pack as much biodiversity into urban spaces as we can, which benefits both wildlife and people.” With urban areas presenting significant challenges for native wildlife, especially the lack of tree hollows, Dr Soanes emphasised the impor-
tance of innovative solutions as for species like the powerful owl, creating a suitable artificial hollow is no easy feat. Dr Soanes said that designing a nest box large enough to accommodate the owl while ensuring it doesn’t damage the tree or pose risks to people was a delicate and complex process. As more species explore the hollows, hopes are rising for the future of the powerful owl and other local fauna, thanks to this innovative environmental project. Read more on page 6
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