Tuesday, 10 June, 2025
Kalorama family rebuilds, four years on
Gembrook Preschool’s new outdoor learning boost
Can-do at Belgrave South Baptist Church
Real Estate liftout inside
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A Star News Group Publication
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OK! Police! Freeze! (for MND) By Shamsiya Hussainpoor The Belgrave Police Station car park turned into a hub of laughter and community spirit for the Big Freeze 2025 event last Monday, 2 June. From 2.30 to 3.30 pm, police officers, and the community joined together to raise funds and awareness for Motoneuron Disease (MND). The highlight was the ice-cold plunge, where officers and volunteers braved buckets of icy water in support of those living with MND. “We saw this as a great cause and an opportunity to promote awareness in a way that the community could get behind,” Belgrave Police, Jason Fox said. Local figures, including the Belgrave Wizard Baba Desi, also participated, amplifying the message on social media. The event raised over $1000 for MND research. To continue reading, turn to page 10
Richly rewarded By Shamsiya Hussainpoor Two exceptional individuals from the Dandenong Ranges have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to community service and emergency response. Chris May from Emerald, a dedicated veteran and volunteer, has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his decades of service.
A former Australian Army soldier and founder of ‘Young Veterans’, Mr May has made a lasting impact, particularly in supporting younger veterans. “This isn’t just about me, it’s a recognition of everyone who has supported me, my family, my colleagues, and the communities I’ve served,” he said. His tireless advocacy for mental health and his efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, including
a record-breaking fundraiser for Lifeline, highlight his commitment to serving others. Meanwhile, Macclesfield CFA captain Sharon Kennelly-Merritt has been honoured with the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) for her incredible work in firefighting and animal rescue. A trailblazer for women in the CFA, she became the first female captain in the Dandenong Ranges Group. “I really believe in letting members take con-
trol of areas they’re passionate about,” she said. Her work during catastrophic bushfires, including the 2009 Black Saturday fires, and her pioneering efforts in large animal rescue have made a lasting impact on both her brigade and the broader community. Both recipients are living examples of dedication, leadership, and service, with their legacies continuing to shape their communities. Read their stories on pages 4 and 5
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