Mail - Mt Evelyn Star Mail - 19th August 2025

Book your next adventure

of the event, which is organised by the Children’s Book Council of Australia.

The theme Book an Adventure is an appropriate one, with many of the students at Birmingham Primary School saying the most enjoyable part of reading is entering into another world or someone else’s life for a little while.

From 16 to 23 August, minds of all ages are invited to set out on an adventure, travel through time, explore different lands and learn from what they read.

Turntopages12and13 forsomeBookWeekQnAs

Overdoses rise

By Callum Ludwig

Drug overdoses have spiked across Victoria over the last decade, a sad reality being witnessed in the eastern suburbs.

A Coroners Court of Victoria report released last week identified that 584 Victorians suffered a fatal overdose in 2024, 37 more than in 2023 and the highest number of deaths in one year on record.

The report’s figures were confirmed to be on par with what Anglicare Victoria’s program manager for community services in the east, Stephanie Bortignon, said is occurring across the Yarra Ranges, Knox, Maroondah and Cardinia.

In total, 390 people died due to an overdose throughout the Outer East between 2015 and 2024, an average of 39 per year, a rate that only

seems to be increasing year-on-year.

Associate Professor Shalini Arunogiri said every one of those deaths would have been preventable and represent real people.

“These deaths reflect systemic failures - there are effective supports and treatment, and these deaths are preventable,” she said.

The most concerning substances, which have

seen significant increases in the cause of death, are heroin and methamphetamine.

Ms Bortignon said another concerning aspect of the report was the indication that restrictions or lack of availability of legal drugs may be forcing people to turn to the illegal drug market.

Toreadthefullstory, turntopage3

Overdose deaths on the rise state-wide

By Callum Ludwig

The Coroner’s Court of Victoria has released damning data on the number of deaths caused by overdose in the last decade, with increases in the number of fatal incidents overall and attributed to illicit substances.

The trend is worsening too, with 584 Victorians suffering a fatal overdose in 2024, 37 more than in 2023 and the highest number of deaths in one year on record in the state.

Anglicare Victoria’s program manager for community services in the east Stephanie Bortignon said sadly, the Coroners Court of Victoria report aligns with what they’re seeing in their Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) services.

“The rate of overdoses has steadily increased over the last decade and, unfortunately, we’ve had a higher number of client deaths in the last 12 months than any other year in the last decade,” she said.

“As the report suggests, people may be sourcing from the illicit drug market because of restrictions on the availability of legal drugs. Tragically, this has led to an increase in preventable overdoses,”

“Many community members are unaware of the AOD support services that are available at no cost to them, which include everything from case management and advocacy to counselling, detox and rehab.

Here are how many deaths have been attributed to overdoses throughout the Outer East over the last decade:

In the Yarra Ranges, nine people died due to an overdose 10 years ago in 2015 and it was the same number last year. The highest number in any year during that time was 17 (2018) and the lowest was seven in 2020 and 2021. A total of 106 people died due to an overdose in the Yarra Ranges between 2015 and 2024.

In Knox, 11 people died due to an overdose 10 years ago in 2015 and it was the same number last year. The highest number in any year during that time was 17 (2018) and the lowest was seven in 2020 and 2021. A total of 122 people died due to an overdose in Knox between 2015 and 2024.

In Maroondah, 10 people died due to an overdose 10 years ago in 2015 and 13 died last year. The highest number in any year during that time was 15 (2019) and the lowest was four (2020). A total of 98 people died due to an overdose in Maroondah between 2015 and 2024.

In Cardinia, three people died due to an overdose 10 years ago in 2015 and six died last year. The highest number in any year during that time was 13 (2021) and the lowest was three (2016). A total of 64 people died due to an overdose in Cardinia between 2015 and 2024.

In total, 390 died due to an overdose throughout the Outer East between 2015 and 2024, an average of 39 per year.

Ms Bortignon said Anglicare Victoria operates the Substance Use Recovery Program

(SURe) throughout the Eastern region in partnership with EACH, supporting community members on their recovery journey.

“If community members are struggling with substance use or are supporting a family member and want to know what services are available to them, I would highly recommend calling the centralised intake service in your catchment,” she said.

Anglicare Victoria also operates the Family Alcohol Drugs Service (FADS) across the Inner and Outer East, which provides counselling, consultancy and continuing care to individuals 18 years and older with substance use challenges, and their family members who are impacted by the problematic substance use.

Associate Professor Shalini Arunogiri, who is a clinical director at Turning Point and National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) emerging leader at the Monash Addiction Research Centre, said every overdose death is a preventable tragedy.

“These 584 deaths represent real people, they are someone’s parent, child, sibling, friend and they come from all walks of life,” she said.

“What’s particularly concerning is the rise in deaths from substances like heroin, which claimed 248 lives last year, and methamphetamine deaths, which have more than tripled since 2015,” “These deaths reflect systemic failures - there are effective supports and treatment, and these deaths are preventable.”

If this story has raised issues about your own or others drug and alcohol use, please contact

the national hotline for confidential counselling and referral on 1800 250 015.

SURe Intake – Outer East Phone number: 1300 007 873

Anglicare Victoria – FADS program phone number 9896 6322

Assoc Prof Arunogiri said we need urgent action on multiple fronts, including expanding access to treatments, overdose prevention measures and investment in comprehensive treatment and harm reduction strategies.

“Heroin was the number one contributor to overdose deaths in Victoria, medications like methadone and buprenorphine help people rebuild their lives, but too many still can’t access these treatments when they need them most,” she said.

“We must expand overdose prevention measures, such as improving access to naloxone, this life-saving medication rapidly reverses opioid overdoses, and needs to be as common as carrying an asthma inhaler or a bandaid,”

“The fixed drug checking site opening in Melbourne this month is a positive step, and we need more evidence-based interventions, rural and regional areas especially need greater investment in treatment and support services, geography shouldn’t determine whether you can access care.”

The Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association (VAADA), the Alcohol and Drug Foundation and the Penington Institute have all also released statements concerned by the latest data.

IN BRIEF

Preventing abuse webinar

A free webinar designed to help parents and carers protect children from sexual abuse is being hosted by Body Safety Australia for a free webinar. Learn about myths and risks around childhood sexual abuse, key body safety strategies, digital safety and safe play and much more.

The webinar is supported by the Yarra Ranges Council.

The first session is for parents of preschool-aged children and takes place on Tuesday 2 September, from 7-9pm.

The second session is for parents of primary school-aged children and takes place on Thursday 4 September, from 7-9pm.

Sessions will be recorded and shared with all who register.

Webinars will be free to attend but bookings are essential.

Book here: shorturl.at/q9h34.

Safe Plate event

Belgrave Police, along with Belgrave CFA will be hosting a Safe Plate day on Sunday 31 August, between 11am and 2pm.

People can come along to the Belgrave CFA premises on Bayview Road in Belgrave for the event, which will also include a sausage sizzle.

The CFA will be hosting a fundraiser BBQ while the Police will assist the community with changing their number plate screws over to anti-theft screws.

Offenders use stolen plates to avoid identification when committing serious offences such as petrol theft, drug trafficking and burglary.

The changeover can help prevent offences and avoid the inconvenience and cost of replacing your number plates by securing your plates with one-way, anti-theft screws.

Road raging charges

A Wandin North male had his car impounded for road raging behaviours on Tuesday 12 August.

A Highway Patrol Unit allege the 29-year-old was tailgating and flashing his headlights at the vehicle in front of him on Clegg Road, Wandin North.

The police did a U-turn to investigate and saw both cars pulled over.

As the driver exited his vehicle to go and allegedly confront the other driver, police activated their lights and sirens and the driver returned to his car.

He underwent a breath test and provided a sample of 0.134, his vehicle was impounded, and licence immediately suspended for a minimum of 12 months.

He will appear before a magistrate at a later date.

New enclosed dog parks

By Oliver Winn

New fully-enclosed dog off-leash areas were proposed by the Yarra Ranges Council after its draft plan setting the guidelines for dog parks was announced at the 12 August council meeting.

The draft People and Dogs in Parks Plan 2025 would address missing standards on these often overlooked, yet crucial and complex recreational areas for the next 10 years - now it needs the feedback from Yarra Ranges locals.

Mayor Cr Jim Child said the council heard “loud and clear” the demand from park users for fully-enclosed dog off-leash areas and thus were moving to act on the advice.

The plan proposed to implement fully-enclosed dog off-leash areas at Belgrave Lake Park, Coronation Park in Healesville, Elizabeth Bridge Reserve in Kilsyth, Kimberley Reserve in Chirnside Park and to partially fence in Wesburn Park’s off-lead area.

Deputy mayor Cr Richard Higgins said the plan was an “extremely important document”, given that the Yarra Ranges had nearly 32,000 registered dogs - the highest in Greater Melbourne.

“It’s something that has plagued councils across Victoria for many, many years.

“Where there’s a conflict between the public walking around and dogs running around… this document strives to make it so that both can happen at the same time,” Cr Higgins said.

The council currently provides 23 dog offleash areas, however each area has its own requirements, depending on the size, its fencing, shared use and more.

Now, the draft plan is open for submissions to refine its aims and will close on 14 Septembervisit the website to have your say: shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/dogs-parks.

“It’s about getting it out there for the community to have a look at and actually understand

what we’re putting forward,” Cr Higgins said.

Initial community engagement was undertaken between 11 July – 13 August 2024, to understand issues and opportunities concerning dog off-leash areas in the municipality to assist in shaping the draft plan.

Informed by industry practice and extensive community input, the plan would set the standards of the provision, development and maintenance of dog off-leash areas for the next 10 years.

The plan would see at least one dog off-leash area available to the majority of Yarra Ranges residents within a 10-minute drive from home.

With each park needing different requirements, the council has split the parks into two

sizes: Local and District levels.

The plan received broad support from councillors, but Cr Peter McIlwain was worried about a few environmental implications.

“I wanna be sure that when we... when we finalise this particular policy that we make every effort to protect the biodiversity, particularly in sensitive areas such as the hills.”

He pointed out that the plan only consulted dog owners which risked not hearing from more diverse perspectives.

“The consultation on this policy up to date has been limited principally to dog owners, and I’d like to impress on council that maybe including some more diversity, particularly people from

conservation groups, would perhaps be a good idea in this respect.”

Cr Tim Heenan pointed out the issue of aggressive dogs as being further evidence for dog parks, as the areas provided socialisation and a place for dogs and humans to play.

“Everybody has a responsibility when a dog is in their care to make sure it’s not going to cause an issue with another person or another animal.

“It is a very vital point about why we need these particular dog parks. It’s so that everybody can live in harmony and hopefully have a safe activity that the whole family can enjoy wherever that may be,” Cr Heenan said.

No final decision is outlined in the plan, only the suggestion that the council review these areas for their demand and consider whether they be changed to on-lead.

Cr Child said it was important to take the draft out to the community, to see if the final document got it right.

“Our draft plans are just that – a draft,” he said.

“We create these documents using community feedback… so we’re confident in the information and the proposals we’ve outlined in the People and Dogs in Parks Plan,” Cr Child said.

TDM Earthworks appointed for Victoria Road surface works

By Dongyun Kwon

A section of a road in Coldstream will get road rehabilitation works soon, as Yarra Ranges Council has selected a company for the job at the 12 August council meeting.

Victoria Road, from Kingsburgh Lane to Flowerfield Drive, was listed under the Roads Rehabilitation and Renewal Program within the Yarra Ranges Council Capital Expenditure Program, with an allocated funding of $2,080,000 from the Federal Roads to Recovery Program.

After the tender process with four submissions, a recommendation was made by the evaluation panel to appoint TDM Earthworks to the specific part of the Victorian Road rehabilitation works for $877,387.40 exclusive of GST.

Chirnside Ward councillor Richard Higgins moved the motion as recommended in the council meeting report.

Cr Higgins said he was happy with the tender process that the council went through.

“This is out for tender, or a result of a tender for a road to be built in the Chirnside, Ryrie and Billanook Wards. I think it’s on the border of all three. It’s actually a very well-used road, and it’s a section of road that is the local neighbourhood, that is residential too. So it’s going to serve

a lot of the community,” he said.

“In my opinion, (the tender process) is very reliable to get the right person, right company

for the job … It’s good to see the process laid out so everybody can see that it’s a fair and reasonable process.”

There are subsequent stages of Victoria Road, Coldstream road rehabilitation works still to be funded from this budget allocation later in the financial year.

Cr Fiona McAllister said she was pleased to see this pace.

“Victoria Road is one of many within Yarra Ranges where there have been substantial changes in traffic patterns over time, and this particular contract is going to be followed by others that will see subsequent stages done,” she said.

“It’s a reminder of, again, the heavy traffic often roads that were probably originally constructed for a much more rural context, with now being used as bypasses to avoid traffic, and a lot more heavy truck traffic.

“And certainly from Ryrie’s perspective, there are many other roads that in the future, we’re going to have to try and find Roads to Recovery funding to support rehab and upgrading as well.” The motion is carried unanimously.

Dire need for urgent care

By Dongyun Kwon

There are hopes the tender for the Casey Urgent Care Clinic (UCC) site will still consider applications from surrounding towns after an advance tender notice states it will be in Lilydale.

Since the federal government announced the plan to deliver 50 more UCCs across the nation, including Lilydale as one of the target areas, the community has voiced its preference for it to be located in Healesville, not Lilydale.

During the election period, both Liberal and Labor candidates advocated it to be in Healesville, considering the town’s capacity to serve more people in rural areas.

Yarra Ranges Council also endorsed the motion to advocate for the UCC to be located in Healesville at the 8 April council meeting.

After seeing the advance notice of tender released on the Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network website on 5 August, the re-elected Casey MP, Aaron Violi, said it is frustrating that Labor has overlooked the needs in more rural areas of the Casey community, like Healesville.

“I ran a petition calling on the government to establish a Medicare UCC in our community. This was signed by thousands of local residents who want to see better healthcare closer to home. I am proud our petition was listened to by the government and resulted in a Medicare UCC in the Yarra Ranges,” he said.

“I recently received confirmation this clinic will be in Lilydale. While a clinic in Lilydale is a step forward, it does little to help families in our rural and remote areas who are still left travelling long distances to access healthcare.

“Labor knows we need better access to healthcare in these areas. During the election, the Labor candidate said more than once that Healesville would be the location of the UCC. Healesville and Upper Yarra residents are feeling misled. They were told one thing by Labor before the election – and now they are missing out on the quality healthcare promised.

“As the member for Casey, I will work together with the community to continue pushing for better local healthcare right across our region.”

Services for Healesville Hospital Action Group (SHHAG), formerly called Save Healesville Hospital Action Group, which has been pursuing the establishment of an urgent care service in Healesville Hospital for 12 years, as the closest hospital equipped with the service, Maroondah Hospital, is about 50 minutes away from the town.

Since the advance notice was released online, the group once again chased up to clarify whether sites only in Lilydale could apply for the tender or

sites in the surrounding towns could submit it as well.

SHHAG chairperson Jane Judd said SHHAG sought clarification from the Minister of Health’s Office via local senator Lisa Darmanin.

“We queried the meaning of the advance tender notice and specifically who could tender. The final tender will define a service delivery catchment area. Any eligible provider from within the catchment can submit a tender. Healesville is within the service area,” she said.

“So I was absolutely delighted to hear that, which means if Eastern Health is interested in re-

sponding to the community demands, then they will put some energy into putting in a tender using the community health service at the hospital and the accredited Healesville GP practice to do so.

“SHHAG would do anything possible to support Eastern Health and the GP clinic at the site. Our focus now has to be on waiting for the tender to confirm the area and then encouraging Eastern Health and offering support to put a tender in.” Federal Minister for Health and Ageing Mark Butler will announce the commencement of the UCC sites tender process in Victoria soon.

Age, diversity priority

By Callum Ludwig

With the second and final Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) State Council Meeting of the year coming up on Friday 10 October, Yarra Ranges councillors convened to put forward motions they would like to be considered.

Councillors discussed and have put forward three motions at the Tuesday 12 August council meeting, focused on addressing occupational violence, improving the Local Government Performance Reporting Framework (LGPRF) and supporting increased age and gender diversity among councils.

Ryrie Ward Councillor Fiona McAllister spoke mostly to the third motion and said motions typically get universally supported unless they’re controversial, so she suspects most of these will.

“I’m going to hazard a guess here, but I’m thinking we’ve got one Councillor under 40, and my apologies if I’m offending any of my fellow Councillors who may be close… but also one woman,” she said.

“It’s not that I don’t have the utmost respect for my fellow councillors, I think we have a wonderful council, but in this day and age, our lack of age, gender and cultural diversity as a local government is pretty shameful, and we’re not alone, there are many councils,”

“We’ve re-entered what they call fragile status because of our lack of diversity, and are again advocating for state government to support us and councils and communities, as often this is community-led across Victoria, for it’s not just about representation at Council, but it’s also about local leadership.”

lesser numbers of women councillors.

so a bit of a difference there but there’s always room for young people and I would highly encourage young people and anyone really to step up, have a look and see if they can.”

The first motion Yarra Ranges put forward requests MAV to undertake statewide research into occupational violence incidents against council staff and councillors and seek WorkSafe support for a public safety campaign, and the second motion asks for MAV to advocate to the state government for the LGPRF to better align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reflecting the ‘strategic leadership and impact of councils.’

Lyster Ward councillor Peter McIlwain said it’s been the case that the LGPRF has been the measurement process or procedure by which councils have been asked to assess their performance.

“However, as a new councillor coming in and looking at that framework, and as a previous academic, I must say, there’s questions around how useful that framework actually is,” he said.

“I put forward the idea that maybe we can supplement that, or even hopefully in the future replace it with the Sustainable Development Goals, which are goals that have been formulated by the United Nations, they use around the world, that now tried and tested and supported with a great deal of research,”

Yarra Ranges Council dropped from three female councillors to one after last year’s council elections and currently only has two councillors under the age of 40. The council wants MAV to request the state government commit to funding education and support programs, such as the 2022-24 Women Leading Locally program, to help encourage women and young people to run for council in 2028.

The Victorian Government had set a target of 50 per cent men and 50 per cent women in councils by 2025, though only 44.8 per cent of people elected to local councils in Victoria were women last year, up slightly from 43.2 per cent in 2020 and from 38 per cent in 2016. Regional and rural councils have generally had

Melba Ward Councillor Mitch Mazzarella said it’s always great to have a wide diversity of candidates and people interested in running for council.

“I was elected at 19 and it proves that anyone can do it and anyone can have a go,” he said.

“The average age of councillors now in Victoria in the reports is 57 and a half years of age,

“The thing is that the Local Government Act actually requires us to undertake strategic and integrated planning, we need to address our community vision, we are required by the act to address issues such as climate change, and also to make intergenerational decisions, but none of that is reflected in the current framework, whereas the sustainable development goals do face forward, face the future and face the challenges that we are presented with.”

The motions were carried unanimously and Yarra Ranges Council Mayor and O’Shannassy Ward councillor Jim Child will be representing the councillors at the state meeting in October.

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‘A psychological prison’

By Oliver Winn

Hearings for an Australia-first parliamentary inquiry into cults wrapped up on 31 July after submissions from Victorians all over the state, including one influential case from the Yarra Ranges. The inquiry will investigate the impacts of cults and organised fringe groups in Victoria and review if the law is equipped to appropriately regulate and deal with groups which use coercive control dominate and hurt its members.

Renee Spencer told the story of how her 22-year-old daughter was indoctrinated by an infamous cult called The Jesus Christians, also known as the “Kidney Cult” for encouraging its members to donate their organs to strangers.

While Ms Spencer was in Brisbane, her daughter Ellicia was living in Lilydale, attending TAFE and working a part-time job when a YouTube video changed the course of her life.

“That’s where she found the Kidney Cult’s videos, and she reached out to them through an email that they advertised and then they came to see her, presenting themselves as Christians, hiding their past as the Kidney Cult,” Ms Spencer said.

Within an instant, Ellicia was whipped away: she quit her job, moved out of home, gave away all her possessions. The matter was complicated further by the fact she had fallen in love with (and then married) one of the members.

Since then, Ms Spencer became a cult awareness advocate and was a prominent author of a submission that will be reviewed by the State Government.

The inquiry outlined specifically that cults weren’t defined by their beliefs, but rather the ways in which they operated - pernicious practices which led to long-lasting psychological, financial and sexual abuse.

“This inquiry is not about judging or questioning anyone’s beliefs, whether religious or otherwise,” the inquiry’s page stated.

A long list of recruitment methods commonly employed by cults was included in the inquiry, which included love bombing, controlling time and information, manipulating emotions and targeting the vulnerable, and many more coercive tactics.

Cults then isolate members from family, friends and alternative sources of information to control them, and use fear and guilt to limit their ability to make informed decisions.

Ms Spencer said the Jesus Christians would relocate new members to foreign countries as a way of making them dependent on the cult, which happened to Ellicia.

“My daughter’s not allowed to talk to me basically, she’s been sent overseas. Since she joined the group, she’s not allowed to talk to me without another member present. All my emails go through the leadership, it’s all censored,” Ms Spencer said.

Within the context of domestic violence, coercive control is a criminal offence in Australia. Ms Spencer said this inquiry could finally address the gaps in the law that has allowed cults to employ these tactics under the guise of religious freedom.

“The way things are at the moment… a pastor of a group isn’t allowed to abuse their family or their wife, but they can go and abuse the rest of their whole congregation.

“It’s all surveillance, which in domestic violence, we go, ‘Hey, this is coercive control.’ But these religious groups are getting away with all of these behaviours.”

Another important aspect of the inquiry was that the term cult wasn’t limited to religious

groups, but would also include “organised fringe groups” which employed cult-like tactics, but wasn’t religious in nature.

Warburton resident Julie Bell grew up within an evangelical Christian church and said the common thread between cults and organised fringe groups was their employment of coercive tactics to dominate members and the “othering” of alternative viewpoints.

“Whether it’s your gym down the road that’s actually a hotbed of grooming young men to be neo-Nazis or a group styling itself as a Bible study, there’s an overlap of ideology there.

“The assumption is we are special, we are better than those others over there. It’s a domination game, and to me, domination is to do with bullying,” she said.

Ms Bell follows Christianity, but said cults had damaged the reputation of the religion and many others they claim to preach.

“They weaponised Christianity to establish supremacy and power, the religion itself is utterly corrupted when we make that mistake,” Ms Bell said.

“We want freedom of religion. We want freedom of spirituality and faith expression. All of that is normal. What the inquiry is trying to get a framework for, is behaviours that don’t promote freedom, but behaviours that restrict freedom.”

The inquiry stated the loaded connotations associated with the word cult was wrongly applied to faiths which may seem strange to outsiders even if they were practising their beliefs in good faith.

“Some small or lesser-known religious groups, including minor yet mainstream faiths that may seem unfamiliar or strange to outsiders, have at times been inaccurately labelled as cults— despite lacking the harmful behaviours typically associated with that term,” the inquiry stated.

Ultimately, Ms Spencer and others involved in raising awareness around cults are glad the Government has finally recognised this issue.

“You can’t have a group claiming religious freedom if it’s infringing upon an individual’s personal freedom and autonomy,” she said.

“We’re just so happy that Victoria is actually looking at this.”

Gas-heated pools pose problem for carbon-reduction

By Callum Ludwig

Recent reporting by the ABC has highlighted the significant impact the heating of local aquatic facilities could be having on the environment, often accounting for high percentages of total emissions by some Melbourne councoils.

The Star Mail reached out to the councils of the Outer East to find out the impact local aquatic facilities could be having on emissions, and to find out any progress that is underway to electrify them.

Director of Planning and Sustainable Futures at Yarra Ranges Council Kath McClusky said all seven of Yarra Ranges Council’s aquatic facilities are currently heated by gas, similar to the majority of Victoria’s approximately 400 aquatic centres.

“Retrofitting existing facilities to electric systems is technically complex and requires significant investment, to date, only a handful of retrofits have been successfully completed in Victoria with others, including Council’s Monbulk Aquatic Centre, currently planned or underway,” she said.

“In 2023/24, gas use at Council’s aquatic facilities accounted for approximately 846.7 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents, representing around 9.6 per cent of Council’s total emissions,”

“Transitioning away from gas is a key focus of Council’s Liveable Climate Plan 2020-2030, which sets a target of net zero emissions by 2040 and a 60 per cent reduction from 2005 levels by 2025, as of 2024, Council had achieved a 48 per cent reduction, with further progress expected following major upgrades delivered through the Resilient Yarra Ranges program this year.”

The decision to close the Kilsyth Centenary Pool in late 2023, which was heated and had its dome shell inflated by gas, will likely shed a significant amount of Yarra Ranges expenditure and emissions from gas used at aquatic facilities.

Ms McClusky said electrifying aquatic facilities offers long-term operational benefits, including lower maintenance requirements, reduced costs, and extended equipment lifespan and Yarra Ranges Council continues to invest in energy efficiency across its aquatic network.

“While these upgrades are largely behind the

scenes, they are critical to future-proofing our facilities - particularly in light of worsening gas shortages in Victoria predicted from 2026, removing gas also improves indoor air quality, contributing to cleaner and greener community facilities,” she said.

“Council pool covers have been installed at five centres to retain heat and improve water quality, reducing energy demand, these covers help to reduce energy use by retaining heat and preventing water loss through evaporation,”

“Five facilities are equipped with solar power, and one (Yarra Centre) includes battery storage to help offset electricity use, all centres are powered by 100 per cent renewable electricity through the Victorian Energy Collaboration (VECO), saving an estimated 925 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents annually - equivalent to driving a petrol car approximately four million kilometres.”

Knox City Council directed the Star Mail to contact Belgravia Leisure, which manages Yarra Junction’s Yarra Centre, the Monbulk Aquatic Centre, Knox Leisureworks in Boronia and the Jack Hort Memorial Community Pool in Healesville.

Yarra Ranges Area Manager Darren Allen said

all of the heated pools in Yarra Ranges and Knox Leisureworks are heated by gas.

“Gas has been the traditional fuel for doing this due to its suitability for expelling considerably greater heat when compared to electrical heaters, however the technology and efficiency of electrical heating advancements have now made it a compelling argument to look at electrification of heated pools,” he said.

The Monbulk Aquatic Centre’s transition away from gas was supported by a $1.97 million grant from the Australian Government’s Community Energy Upgrade Fund.

Mr Allen said the big challenge for the electrification of heated pool boilers is the ability for the existing power grid to be able to handle the increased demand.

“The local hills and valley communities have existing power strains, so it’s a complex issue to solve,” he said.

“It should be no surprise that the continuous heating of a million litres of water to be 27-30 degrees and then sustain that heat takes a considerable amount of energy (regardless of gas or electricity), however the health outcomes, swimming skills and overall impact that regular swimming has shouldn’t be underestimated,”

“Our outdoor pools that are unheated are only open and operate during the warmer parts of the year, ironically making them a greater investment per visit compared to a year-round indoor heated facility.”

Maroondah City Council was contacted for comment.

Cardinia Shire Councill’s general manager of infrastructure and environment James Kelly said they have two aquatic facilities heated by gas.

“The Koo Wee Rup outdoor pool has gas boilers, connected to bottled LPG, that are used with a solar hot water system to heat the pool, Cardinia Life has gas boilers that heat the pool and pool hall, along with a co-generation unit that consumes gas to create electricity and heat for the site,” he said.

“Cardinia Shire Council is focusing on making aquatic facilities more energy efficient, cutting emissions, reducing energy consumption, and resulting bills, that’s why the Cardinia life redevelopment is one of Council’s key advocacy priorities, adequate funding from the Australian and Victorian governments will enable Council to replace less efficient high-emission equipment with more cost effective alternatives,”

“Council has undertaken preliminary investigations into electrifying facilities, including Cardinia Life, and is intending on replacing some gas heating equipment with more cost effective electric alternatives at the centre in 2026, initiatives to further electrify facilities will be considered as part of the development of Council’s Towards Zero Emissions Plan in 2026.”

Don’t ask about tiny homes

By Tanya Steele

A resident has stepped forward with another question on tiny homes to the council this week as Mayor Jim Child announced both a stop to questions on tiny homes and a dedicated page for them on the same evening at the most recent Yarra Ranges Council meeting on Tuesday 12 August.

Yarra Ranges Council has presented a firm boundary to the community about how they wish to engage with them on the subject of tiny homes, whilst simultaneously updating its webpage on the matter.

Citing efficiency and productive time use in council meetings, Mayor Child said that the council will no longer be accepting questions from the public relating to tiny homes at their regular meetings.

“I wish to advise that following tonight’s council meeting, future questions to council and submissions relating to tiny homes will no longer be accepted during public council meetings,” he said.

Stating that he fully acknowledged it was a complex issue, Mayor Child said that many community members feel strongly about it.

“The matter has been comprehensively addressed in previous council meetings,” he said.

“Furthermore, council governance rules stipulate that questions to the council and submissions that have previously received answers may be disallowed in future meetings.”

Mayor Child said that anyone seeking further information, updates or clarification on tiny homes should head to the council’s newly launched dedicated web page.

“Which provides detailed guidance and answers to frequently asked questions, any future inquiries on this topic will now be treated as general correspondence,” he said.

Following the Mayor’s announcement, a final question was put to the council by resident Cadi-Lee, who asked what it is about Yarra Ranges Council’s green wedge policy that prevents the use of tiny homes and caravans in the current housing crisis. There was a third component deemed not answerable at the meeting.

“What is required by Yarra Ranges Council to enable people to use tiny homes and caravans in this crisis?” they said.

Director of Planning and Sustainable Futures, Kath McClusky thanked the resident

for her question and gave quite a detailed response.

Citing legislation from 2023, Ms McClusky discussed the introduction of a definition of Small Second Homes by the State government and the fact that in rural zones, including the Green Wedge Zone and Rural Conservation Zone, a small second dwelling is allowed, but must have a planning permit.

“In these zones, an owner can apply for a planning permit, provided it meets specific criteria, including being under 60 square metres. Part of the council assessment against the planning scheme will be any environmental risks to an occupant, such as fire, flood or landslip. If the land is vacant, a planning permit will be required,” she said.

Ms McClusky said that a separate building permit may be needed, depending on the structure.

“Our Municipal Building Surveyor has determined that certain types of tiny homes and ancillary structures do require building approval,” she said.

“These decisions are made independently from Council and can only be reviewed through the Building Appeals Board or by pro-

Give feedback on erosion management

Yarra Ranges Council is inviting community feedback on proposed updates to the Erosion Management Overlay (EMO) mapping in the Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme.

The consultation period will run from 21 August to 3 October, and residents impacted by the proposed changes will receive a letter with further details about how to make a submission.

This consultation phase, called ‘exhibition’ is one of several steps in the amendment process, which also includes consideration of submissions by an independent Planning Panel (if required), and final approval by the Minister for Planning.

Once the amendment is approved and gazetted by the Minister, the new provisions will come into effect in the Planning Scheme. Affected residents will be notified when this happens. Amendments can be a lengthy process, taking a year or more.

To support the community, Council will hold a range of information sessions during and outside office hours across the municipality. These will include in-person sessions with a geotechnical expert, webinars with a geotechnical expert, and bookable drop-in sessions with council planners.

To find out where and when these sessions will be held, to register to attend and to make a submission, visit shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au.

Originally implemented into the Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme in 2001, the EMO mapping has now been revised using advanced LIDAR technology and updated geotechnical assessments. These updates align with the Australian Geomechanics Society’s 2007 Guidelines for Landslide Risk Management, providing a more accurate understanding of landslip risks across the municipality.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child said the update is a vital part of Council’s responsibility to maintain a current and effective planning scheme.

“We know how important it is to protect our community from natural hazards. This update ensures that our planning controls reflect the latest science and technology, helping us manage landslip risks more effectively,” Cr Child said.

“The EMO only applies to new development, earthworks, subdivisions or extensions or re-building a home. It’s about making sure future development on your property is safe and sustainable for you and your neighbours.”

The EMO is a state-wide planning control designed to minimise land disturbance and inappropriate development in areas prone to erosion and landslip. The updated mapping has identified 1,183 recorded landslides across the municipality.

As part of the proposed Planning Scheme Amendment (C225), the council will notify all property owners affected by changes to the EMO mapping.

This includes 937 properties proposed for removal from the EMO, 3259 newly identified properties added to Schedule 1 (landslip hazard), 290 properties added to Schedule 2 (debris flow hazard), plus 209 already included in the EMO and 202 properties included in both Schedules. Total properties within the EMO will increase

to 13,724, a net increase of 2365.

If you already have an EMO on your property, it’s important to note that there are a few minor changes. This is mainly that there are now two schedules, one for landslip and one for debris flow and there are some minor grammatical corrections and permit exemption for repairs and maintenance works to existing assets by public authorities.

“We’re committed to transparency and community engagement throughout this process. Residents will have multiple opportunities to learn more, ask questions, and make a submission on the proposed mapping changes or wording in the EMO schedules,” Cr Child said.

Community Consultation

The formal consultation period will run from 21 August to 3 October 2025. During this time: Impacted property owners and occupiers will receive letters with details on how to make a submission.

Notices will be published in local newspapers. Information will be available on the council’s and the Department of Transport and Planning’s websites including an online mapping tool.

viding further technical information.

“Neither Council or the Executive Team have the authority to override a Municipal Building Surveyor decision; only the State Building Surveyor or the Building Appeals Board can.”

Ms McClusky said the rules that govern the placement and use of Small Second Dwellings are set by the State Government and apply across all Victorian councils, which are then embedded into the Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme and the Building Regulations.

“Yarra Ranges Council cannot change these planning or building requirements, nor does Council have flexibility in how they are applied,” she said.

Ms McClusky said the council understand the issues confronting the community and that they continue to engage with State bodies, while being committed to reviewing Local Law.

“We are actively listening,” she said.

The council have released an updated Q and A page on its website on tiny homes at: yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Our-services/Planning-building-and-development/Planning/ Research-before-you-apply/Answers-to-common-application-questions/Tiny-HouseGranny-Flat-or-Bed-and-Breakfast

Final stages

By Mikayla van Loon

WorkstocompleteMountEvelyn’sMorrison Reserve recreational upgrades are a step closer with a builder now appointed for stage two.

Warrandale Industries’ tender for $1.9 million was approved by Yarra Ranges Council at the meeting on Tuesday 12 August.

Having been awarded stage one of the project in March last year, Warrandale Industries will produce the final stage, includingtheyouthactivationspaceandbikebath.

Stage two works will construct a multi-level bike trail network, pump track, snake run, youth activation zone(s), DDA-compliant access paths, overpass bridges, and landscaping throughout, adding to the existing revitalised playspace.

Councillor Tim Heenan said that once these works are completed in mid-2026, MorrisonReservewillbeafantasticprecinct for sport, families and young people.

“This has been a dream of mine since I first came on council in 2005, but at that stage, we had enormous problems, and we needed a major upgrade for the athletics track to become our one and only regional athletics in Yarra Ranges. That’s been done,” he said.

“We had the upgrade of the car park at quite a few $100,000, that’s been done. We just recently finished as part of stage one, the playspace, toilets, activation space and also the multi-purpose netball, basketball, and soccer courts. That’s been done.

“So now we’re here for stage two, which will include a multi-level bike trail network. That’ll be, I think, very interesting and very different from what we’re used to seeing in other parts of the Shire.”

You must make your submission in writing at www.shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au or by email to mail@yarraranges.vic.gov.au with C225 in the subject line, or in the post to Design and Place, Yarra Ranges Council, PO Box 150, Lilydale 3140 (Quote Amendment C225).

Submissions can support or seek changes to proposed planning scheme changes.

Submissions are most effective when they demonstrate how a proposal may impact the individual making the submission.

All submissions will be considered and summarised in a report to Council. Submitters will be notified of the Council meeting and may also present to Council and an Independent Panel appointed by the Minister for Planning, if required.

Submitters name, address and submission may become public as part of this amendment. As this is a legislated process, submissions received outside the consultation dates cannot be accepted.

For more information, visit: yarraranges.vic. gov.au/C225, shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/ c225 or contact Council’s Strategic Planning team on 1300 368 333.

Theupgradesinstagesoneandtwowere made possible with $2.6 million in funding from the State Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund Program 2023-24.

Cr Jeff Marriott echoed Cr Heenan’s sentiments and said this was just another example of the incredible initiatives being undertaken across the shire. He said that while the improvements already made at Morrison Reserve have been great, the final stage “takes it to the next level”.

“I really like the concept…this development will end up adding to the strategic objectives for community well-being, infrastructure development, and active living. So it’s a huge plus for that area,” Cr Marriott said. Warrandale Industries is no stranger to the Yarra Ranges, having completed multiple projects across the region, including Queen’s Park in Healesville, the Gembrook Skate and Leisure Park, and the Warburton Recreation precinct.

Constructionofstagetwoissettogetunderway in quarter four of this year.

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They’re ready to sparkle!

By Mikayla van Loon

Thousands of students from across the state are gearing up to take to one of Melbourne’s biggest stages as the State Schools Spectacular returns for its 30th year.

Whether performing as part of the mass dance or choir ensembles, in a lead role singing or dancing, or ensuring all runs smoothly behind the scenes, it’s the highlight of the year for all involved.

This year, performers from across the Yarra Ranges will descend on John Cain Arena on 13 September for two shows.

Alfie from Upwey High School has been tasked with the role of rehearsal stage manager, Leonard from Lilydale Heights College will perform as part of the orchestra playing the alto saxophone, Jade from Lilydale High School and Rosie from Yarra Junction Primary School are performing specialty acts, and Talal from Melba College will perform as a principal vocalist.

Croydon Primary School and Healesville High School will perform as part of the mass choir, while Upper Ferntree Gully Primary School, Upwey South Primary School, Wattleview Primary School, and Ferntree Gully North Primary School are all performing in the mass dance group.

In total, 2500 Victorian students from 200 government schools will have the privilege of showcasing their talent to an arena-full audience.

Getting to that point will have taken seven months from initially learning everything, rehearsing at school and home, and then coming together for two dress rehearsals.

On Friday 15 August, the mass dance collective of students had one of its major rehearsals before the dress rehearsal at the arena.

For Wattleview Grade 6 students Ayla, Abbi, Milla, Maia, Kayla and Lene, the experience so far has been “fun”, “fantastic” and “mesmerising”.

Abbi said, “At my old school, we didn’t do this, so it’s been very, very fun…and I’m so excited to be on the stage”.

Ayla, who took part in the 2023 show, said, “It’s definitely improved”, while Milla said, “I love the costumes better” compared to the previous show.

Lene said, “It brings back memories” of being out there rehearsing and preparing for the show.

Not only has learning the dances been a fun experience, but having “seen a lot of people from other schools” has also been incredible, as has the social aspect.

Most looking forward to having the lights on them on stage and the cheering from the crowd, Abbi said it will be amazing, “just being out there, (knowing) everyone is coming to see you”.

Macey, Blake and Bryce from Upper Ferntree Gully Primary School echoed this, saying they’re most looking forward to just being there, in the arena and seeing how everyone performs.

Of the eight dances, there are some favourites, being 99 Red Balloons, Move Your Feet, Free From Desire and Learning to Fly.

In one part, “when (we’re) doing the circle thing, you just feel like you’re united, having a

great time. It’s just a pause to look at everyone’s faces and see how much fun they’re having”.

So far, Blake said, after rehearsing separately, “seeing it all come together with all the different puzzle pieces” has been the best bit.

Macey, Blake and Bryce confirmed they’ve been rehearsing at school since April but having all done the Schools Spectacular before, Bryce said it does “make it a bit easier and less nerve-racking”.

With Ayla, Abbi, Milla, Maia, Kayla and Lene all having done some form of dance or callisthenics in the past or currently, Abbi said “the muscle memory really helps”, but so too have the Thursday rehearsals at school.

Mass dance choreographer Hara Papoulias said she has been so impressed with this year’s cohort for their excitement and enthusiasm.

“We get four rehearsals with the kids throughout the year before we see them in the arena. So they’ve done a really, really great job. There’s a lot of enthusiasm. There’s so much excitement this year,” she said.

“There are six to eight songs that they’re predominantly dancing in, and it’s a mix of genres, also a mix of props.”

From massive hearts to wings to umbrellas, Hara said, not only do the props provide a point of difference for each dance, they help the students feel like they’re telling a story.

“We have so many things to keep them stimulated and also to help them focus on each dance. So there’s a point of difference. Nothing is becoming too same, same for them.

“We’ve got so much diversity within the cast that they’re connecting to the different song lyrics, or they’re connecting to the story with the props. Come Alive is this beautiful garden that comes to life. And so some of them, as dancers, have these umbrellas that are flowers.

“So we talk about it being like a time lapse of a flower blossoming, opening up, and so they can easily connect to it, so they don’t feel like they’re doing dance steps, they’re actually telling a story.”

Hara begins choreographing the dances in January, ready for the show in September.

“To see it evolve and adapt, and how they bring it to life, they always do it better than I could ever imagine,” she said.

Celebrating 30 years, Hara said, is a special milestone, and several alumni have come back to help behind the scenes, which helps students see what they could be doing post-school.

As her eleventh year involved in the Schools Spectacular, Hara said that with one of the props being hearts, it’s the perfect symbolism for what mass dance and choir bring to the show.

“It’s ironic that we’re doing hearts, and they get to be the hearts, because they are the heart of

Lilydale Rotary celebrates 60 years

The Rotary Club of Lilydale marked its 60th anniversary on Sunday 10 August with a celebratory lunch at Eastwood Golf Club.

Guests ranged from current, past, and Honorary members to community supporters, District representatives, and visiting Rotarians from neighbouring clubs. They lingered over the memorabilia displays, each item a carefully preserved snapshot of the club’s six-decade history, lovingly maintained by the dedicated historian Helen Darvell.

Focusing on the last 10 years, President Cheryl Mackay and Vice President Des Shiel highlighted the Club’s major local and international community achievements—including raising more than $300,000 through the hard work of dedicated members and volunteers.

Adding a light-hearted touch, the afternoon featured a lively President’s Panel, where three past presidents engaged the audience with their responses to a series of questions, moderated by past president Arun Marappan. The panel was invited to reflect on their time as president, sharing their proudest moments and the ways Rotary had shaped their personal and professional lives. When asked which tradition he was glad the club had left behind, Ian Darvell replied, “the exclusion of women,” a response that drew warm ap-

preciation from the audience.

During the delicious lunch, guests enjoyed one of Margaret Battle’s entertaining and comprehensive slide shows, filled with photos of club members hard at work on community projects or sharing good times at numerous social events.

True to Rotary tradition, funds were also raised through the sale of raffle tickets, with most

prizes generously donated by current members and local businesses.

The celebrations ended on a sweet note, with the current president presenting a special cake to the past presidents of the last decade — a delicious memento that proved an irresistible takehome treat for all guests.

If you are a motivated local member of Yarra

Ranges who wants to make positive changes in your community and the world check out Rotary Club of Lilydale’s webpage at rotarylilydale.org. au/ or email them at rotaryclublilydale@gmail. com.

Tuesday 26th of August 2025, 11am to 3pm

BOOK WEEK

Merv’s top recommendations

Which book have you just finished or are currently reading? What did you think?

The book I’ve just finished reading is Mental State by Dr Mark Cross. It is a harrowing account of what’s wrong with Australia’s mental health system from someone who lives it every day. It also graphically describes how, while we were in lockdown during Covid and experiencing trying to manage our own, personal mental health issues, health professionals such as doctors and nurses were turning up to work without knowing if they would return home alive, or infect their own families with a deadly virus. It also highlights how difficult it is to get professional support at present, and hence the importance of looking after our own, mental health in other ways.

How many books have you read this year?

I’m not sure how many books I’ve read this year, but I always have one on hand. I don’t necessarily have prescribed times where I read, but whenever there is a quiet time, then out comes the book. It might be on a train, waiting for an appointment, or a flight has been delayed when I’m travelling. Whenever one of my grandkids says, “Poppy, I’m bored”. I reply with “Read a book”. My local Belgrave Library has a wonderful variety of books, and if there’s one that I need that they don’t have, they can usually organise one from another Library.

What’s the first book you ever remember reading?

The first book I ever remember reading was John and Betty. You need to be older than 60 to know this book. My memory from so long ago was that this was the “only” book available when I was in Prep in Primary School, and we read it over and over and over again. Now, when I attend our local Primary School and help the Preppies with their reading, they have a variety of books to assist with learning to read at all levels. I encourage people of my age to offer their reading services to their local Primary School. It’s very rewarding, and you are encouraging young people to have a love for reading and books.

What book had the biggest impact on your life and why?

Having spent more than 50 years owning and operating my own businesses, I learnt very early that there are many views on how to achieve a positive outcome. I came across The 7 Habits

Ready for Book Week

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

As part of Book Week celebrations from Saturday, 16 August to Saturday, 23 August, Star Mail reached out to a couple of local schools to spotlight students’ favourite books and costumes, Kallista Primary School warmly welcomed the invitation.

Acting principal Robyn Mowat said the school had a packed week planned to celebrate reading and storytelling.

“We’re kicking off Monday with an incursion linked to the magic of books, and on Tuesday, everyone will come dressed up,” Ms Mowat said.

“We’ll start with a community parade, then move into mystery storybook readings with visitors and teachers surprising students as guest storytellers.”

Ms Mowat said community involvement is central to Kallista’s approach.

“Our community is fabulous about being involved with the school. We’re also inviting kinders and local childcare students for story time led by our Year 4s,” she said.

Having started at the school just four weeks ago, Ms Mowat said her highlight has been getting to know the students and their ideas.

“There’s a real buzz around reading and writing, and our community loves books,” she said.

She’ll also be joining the fun, dressing up as a butterfly morphing into an adventure.

Among the students excited for Book Week is Grade 3’s Alixandra, who chose Imagine by Alison Lester as her favourite book.

“My dad bought it for me when I was little. I just like it a lot,” she said.

She’s considering dressing up as a Disney princess and said she’s most excited to see everyone in costume.

of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey, and it was a game-changer. The habits he identifies are relevant to your personal, as well as business life. Whenever I feel as though I am working too hard, I remind myself to stop and “sharpen the saw”. Another wonderful business book that helps with dealing with people is FISH Principles by Stephen Lundin. His message was simple. “Be There, Play, Make Their Day, and Choose Your

496046)

Grade 5’s Mason Denis Collard is leaning into the spooky side, dressing up as the slime monster from Goosebumps: Monster Blood III, by R.L. Stine.

“I like scary stuff. I thought the book would be boring, but then I started reading and I was like, I’ll read this 100 times a day,” he said.

The costume parade is what he’s most looking forward to.

Grade 4’s Eddie Robert McMurray will dress as a pirate and is currently reading Ned Kelly’s Secret at school.

“It started off with a lot of action, and now it’s getting to the more interesting parts,” he said.

“I like reading because when it’s quiet, you can just focus on the book and not anything else.”

At Kallista Primary, Book Week is more than dress-ups, it’s a celebration of imagination, storytelling and the joy of reading shared across the school community.

Attitude”.

If you could write your own novel or nonfiction, what would you write?

Last year, I had the opportunity to co-author an academic book called “The Positive Psychology of Laughter and Humour”. This was done in conjunction with Professor Jerome Carson and Dr Freda Gonot-Schoupinsky from Bolton University in the UK. As a non-academic, my ques-

tion was “What do I have to contribute”? And the answer was simple: “Stories”! Since time began, we have communicated through stories. We all have a personal story, or hear of other people’s stories that move us, inspire us, or educate us. A good book, in my opinion, tells a story that resonates with the reader. I believe that every week should be Book Week.

BOOK WEEK

Escaping to other worlds

Eloise - Grade 6

What’s your favourite book and why?

My favourite book is You Don’t Know Me by Sophia Bennett. I like it because it involves drama, mystery or surprise. It’s one of my preferred books in the library.

Do you have an all-time favourite character?

Rose because she is so calm but funny.

What’s the first book you ever remember reading?

I remember my mum and me reading Cinderella, with her help, of course.

If you could write your own book, what would it be about?

The beach.

What do you enjoy about reading?

I enjoy that it brings me out of my life and into someone else’s.

Ariah - Grade 6

What’s your favourite book and why? Wings of Fire.

Do you have an all-time favourite character? Tsunami.

What’s the first book you ever remember reading?

Pig the Pug.

If you could write your own book, what would it be about?

A horror story.

What do you enjoy about reading?

The horror.

Lucas - Grade 6

What’s your favourite book and why?

The Master of the Rings, because I love the tragedy in it.

Do you have an all-time favourite character? No, I like all the characters.

What’s the first book you ever remember reading?

Bad Guys.

If you could write your own book, what would it be about?

Something like Star Wars.

What do you enjoy about reading?

It’s very interesting.

Nerys - Grade 6

What’s your favourite book and why?

My favourite book is called Then by Morris Gleitzman.

Do you have an all-time favourite character?

My favourite character was a girl who was six years old called Zelda.

What’s the first book you ever remember reading?

The Bluey book about the beach when the mum goes for a walk.

If you could write your own book, what would it be about?

If I wrote a book, it would be about war or horror.

What do you enjoy about reading?

War and horror.

Eleanor - Grade 6

What’s your favourite book and why?

My favourite book is Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow. This is the best book in the world because it is hilarious and intriguing.

Do you have an all-time favourite character?

Yes. Hawthorne Swift is the best character in Nevermoor, and Nevermoor is the best, so there!

What’s the first book you ever remember reading?

Pig the Pug

If you could write your own book, what would it be about?

It would be about Rhondy the talking snake

plant (I came up with Rhondy myself).

What do you enjoy about reading?

How it takes me to another world.

Courtney - Grade 6

What’s your favourite book and why?

My favourite book is Girl Undergound because I love war-themed books and Morris Gleitzman is my favourite author.

Do you have an all-time favourite character?

I love Bridget and Menzies because they work so well together.

What’s the first book you ever remember reading?

The Otter that was Scared of the Water.

If you could write your own book, what would it be about?

I like writing tragedies, and I’m currently writing one about a runaway girl.

What do you enjoy about reading?

I love it when I feel like I’m in another world.

Joshua - Grade 6

What’s your favourite book and why?

Allies because it includes history.

Do you have an all-time favourite character?

Dee.

What’s the first book you ever remember reading?

Do not open this book.

If you could write your own book, what would it be about?

A haunted mansion.

What do you enjoy about reading? The imagination.

‘Never judge a book by its movie’, says this avid reader

Has there been a book that was hard to get through, but worth it in the end?

Moby Dick, by Herman Melville. The author continually gets sidetracked down labyrinthian tunnels on a huge variety of subjects. On the plus side you learn about things that were important in the day but have long since disappeared.

What is one book that everyone should read and why?

At the risk of stating the obvious, the Bible. If you’ve never read it, you don’t actually know what’s in it. If you do read it, you get to take away something each time.

Do you agree that you should never judge a book by its cover?

This saying is so old it needs updating to ‘You should never judge a book by its movie.’ A book engages your imagination, and we all have different imaginations, so a cover, or a movie, restricts what you can imagine. Just sit down and read the book.

Who is your favourite author?

William Gibson. His novels ‘Mona Lisa Overdrive’, ‘Neuromancer’, and ‘Idoru’ show his view of a society that is saturated with ever evolving tech and AI that force our societies to change beyond our control, and how humans still manage to adapt.

Do you have a preferred genre and if yes, why?

What some people might call the ‘Hard Boiled Detective’ novels. Think Walter Mosley, Robert Crais, Elmore James or Australia’s own Peter Corris... The protagonist is typically a man who is flawed but trying his best in very difficult circumstances to right wrongs and make the world a better place, even if it is just on his block in a dirty city. Life can be like that.

Which book have you just finished or are currently reading?

It’s not actually a novel, but a book of images from Japanese photographer Daido Moriyama. His style of photography is much the same as mine.

Where to pick up your FREE Star Mail

CHIRNSIDE PARK Meadowgate Milk Bar3 Meadowgate Drive

CHIRNSIDE PARK Coles Supermarket239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Woolworths Supermarket239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Caltex Safeway239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK EG Fuelco Service Station Chirnside Park Shopping

CHIRNSIDE PARK 7 - Eleven 242 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Chirnside Park Country Club 68 Kingswood Drive

CROYDON NORTH Croydon Hills Milk Bar158 Nangathan Way

CROYDON NORTH Eastfield Milk Bar11 The Mall

KILSYTH Woolworths SupermarketChuringa SC, Russo Place

KILSYTH Woolworths SupermarketCanterbury Road Kilsyth

KILSYTH Kilsyth Laundrette Unit 7/87 Colchester Road

LILYDALE Yarra Valley Soul Cafe 8 William Street East

LILYDALE Aaron Violi MP Office 110 Main Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Marketplace SC33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Village SC51-59 Anderson Street

LILYDALE Woolworths SupermarketMarketplace, 33 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Coles Supermarket Lilydale VillageCastella Street & Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Lilydale Community Centre7 Hardy Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Lakeside Conference and Events Centre1 Jarlo Drive

LILYDALE United Petrol Service Station473 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Caltex Lilydale346 Main Street

LILYDALE Caltex Woolworths31 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE BP Service Station87 Warburton Highway

LILYDALE Shell Service Station469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE 7 - Eleven LilydaleCnr Maroondah Highway & Cave Hill Road

LILYDALE Coles Express469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Hutch & Co Cafe251 Main Street

LILYDALE Round Bird Can't Fly170 Main Street

LILYDALE The Lilydale General110 Beresford Road

LILYDALE Yarra Valley Smokery96 Main Street

LILYDALE Bee Seen Cafe178 Main Street

LILYDALE Blue Turtle Cafe222 Main Street

LILYDALE Gracious GraceCastella Street

LILYDALE Melba Coffee House33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Munchies7/75 Cave Hill Road

LILYDALE Point of View CafeLilydale Lakeside - Jarlo Drive

LILYDALE Freda's Cafe2 Clarke Street

LILYDALE Barry Plant Real Estate88 Main Street

LILYDALE Ray White Real Estate164 Main Street

LILYDALE Hello Harry245 Main Street

LILYDALE Noel Jones Real Estate 281 Main Street

LILYDALE Professionals Real Estate111-113 Main Street

LILYDALE Grubs Up1 Industrial Park Drive

LILYDALE Mc Donalds RestaurantMaroondah Highway

LILYDALE Olinda Creek HotelMaroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Crown HotelMaroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Yarra Ranges Council 61 - 65 Anderson Street

MONTROSE Montrose Authorised Newsagency 912 Mt Dandenong Road

MONTROSE IGA Supermarket Mt Dandenong Road

MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road

MOUNT EVELYN Fast Fuel 1 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN IGA Supermarket 38- 40 York Road

MOUNT EVELYN Post Office 12 Station Street

MOUNT EVELYN Authorised Newsagency 1A Wray Crescent

MOUNT EVELYN Red Robyn Milk Bar 35 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN Library 50 Wray Cresent

MOUNT EVELYN Milkbar 28 Birmingham Road

MOUNT EVELYN Bendigo Bank 2/35-39 Wray Cres

MONTROSE IGA Supermarket916 Mt Dandenong Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Supermarket15 Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Bendigo BankUnit 19/66 - 74 Brice Ave

MOOROOLBARK Corner Milk Bar38 Bellara Dive

MOOROOLBARK Fang & Yaoxin Mini Mart108 Hayrick Lane

MOOROOLBARK BP Mooroolbark103 Cardigan Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Express2 Cambridge Road

MOOROOLBARK Professionals Real EstateBrice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK L J HookerBrice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Fletchers Real Estate 1/14 Manchester Road

MOOROOLBARK Mc Donalds RestaurantManchester Road

MOOROOLBARK 7-Eleven Manchester Road

MOUNT EVELYN York on Lilydale138 York Road

WANDIN NORTH Wandin Newsagency Shop 2 /18 Union Road

Cultivating a community

By Mikayla van Loon

The vision and future design of Montrose’s muchloved People’s Garden will be based on the stories, memories and uses shared by the community until 3 September.

Yarra Ranges Council and the Montrose Township Group are inviting anyone with a story to share that can add to the history of the garden, or a suggestion for improvements, to do so by the start of next month.

In 1967, legendary gardener Kevin Heinze and his wife Jill bought land in Montrose and cultivated the gardens. The couple eventually moved into their home in 1968.

Shortly after, Kevin began presenting the show Sow What, a gardening television program that spanned 21 years.

He and the People’s Garden became renowned both in Melbourne and Australia, seeing many come to visit the private space in Montrose.

In 2005, the family decided to donate the land to the council, so it could become open space for the community and be maintained in perpetuity.

People’s Garden Working Party, a subgroup of the Township Group, coordinator Sally Smith said many people would have memories of that time or Kevin and Jill themselves, and that’s what they hope to draw on to revitalise the garden.

“As part of the landscape development plan, together with the council, we’re wanting to preserve the history of the garden, and that’s the reason why (we’re collecting) stories people have about what they feel in the garden, how they use the garden, what memories they have of perhaps Kevin and Jill Heinze themselves,” she said.

“A lot of people have had personal relationships with Kevin in Montrose, depending on their age, so there are a lot of stories that we’re wanting to collect to really give us the feel of how people in Montrose use the garden.”

Sally said local historian Eddie Tichelaar is also on board to collect the historical aspects, “to increase our historical knowledge of the garden and keep that alive in Montrose and add to our own archives”.

The hope is to use the submissions and suggestions from the community consultation

period to inform the landscape development plan.

“This information will help us with our plans to revitalise the space, make improvements and repairs, and figure out how to incorporate storytelling into the space,” Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Jim Child said.

“We’ll then create a detailed landscape design plan with this information, ensuring the future of the garden is as bright as its history.”

Sally said, however, that the uniqueness of the garden with its “incredible species” and ties to a respected horticulturalist would remain the foundation of the future vision.

“We’re looking to increase the canopy of the tree scape and subsequently, under the lower flora ground of the plant life, whilst making sure that all the pathways are maintained,” she said.

“Hopefully adding in some changes that people can use and or continue to use over the years, whether it’s park benches or whatever people are suggesting.

“We’re not looking to make big changes. We never have been. We want to increase what’s there by using and perhaps propagating from what’s there.”

There are several ways people can add to the discussion or make a submission.

Submissions can be entered directly via: shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/kevin-heinze-peoples-garden-montrose

Sally said that for people who might not be able to access a computer, they can instead attend the next Wednesday Weeders session on 27 August between 10am and 11.30am to speak with the Working Party.

Montrose Library also has a collection box, with pens and paper provided for handwritten submissions, or emailed submissions can also be sent to montrosetownshipgroup@gmail.com

“People seem to have a real ownership of the garden, because it’s a space that they use in lots of different ways, and so we want to preserve that and hear from those people collectively, so that we can make sure the space is retained the way that we as a community want it,” Sally said.

Melissa’s advice in demand

By Callum Ludwig

A Lilydale local and Mooroolbark Cricket Club player has been appointed to the Victorian Disability Advisory Council (VDAC), set to help provide policy and strategic advice to Minister for Disability Lizzie Blandthorn over the next three years.

Melissa Hale is a proud deaf woman with a history of work in community service, community sport and advisory roles.

Ms Hale said she was raised in a hearing world, speaking and listening, and at the age of 19 discovered the deaf community and started to develop her sense of identity and who she really is.

I had a terrible time at school in particular, I was the only deaf kid at school and it was a toxic and exclusive environment, I had very little self worth,” she said.

“I came to a crossroads at the age of 17. I went for a hearing test, and the audiologist told me that what little hearing I had left was almost gone and I had to make a choice whether to have a cochlear implant or not,”

“But because I had ignored it for so long in my quest to be invisible, pretending to hear when I couldn’t, and not wear my hearing aids, there was no guarantees it was going to work for me, so I was up against a real possibility that I wouldn’t be able to hear, or communicate with anyone around me.”

Ms Hale is one of 13 members of the VDAC who will hold their places until 30 July 2028, eight of which are new this term.

Ms Hale said a weekend with her cousin in South Australia, who was also deaf, before she started university and underwent her cochlear implant (CI) surgery changed her life.

“The difference between me and him, was he was completely immersed in the Deaf community, I went to see him, and he took me to a national deaf basketball tournament where Deaf basketball teams from across Australia

were competing with each other,” she said.

“I met so many people who were just like me. Some could speak, some could sign, but it didn’t matter, I remember sitting on the spectator bench, and being surrounded by people who just wanted to talk to me, get to know me, they made me feel so welcomed and treated me with so much love and kindness,”

“The tournament was three days long and I didn’t eat or sleep for three days because I had found my people. I had found real friendships that I still cherish today, just in that instant. While I went ahead with the CI operation, and it thankfully did work, I no longer cared so much about the outcome because I knew that I was going to be ok.”

Ms Hale is currently also serving as an advi-

sory council member for both Disability Sports Australia and the Department of Transport and Planning’s Accessible Transport advisory council. She was also recently a Change Our Game Ambassador for the Office for Women In Sport and the Head of Deaf Women’s Cricket for the now closed Deaf Cricket Australia.

Ms Hale said inclusion and using sport, particularly Deaf cricket, as a platform and vehicle to bring people together and give people a purpose to join together was the sole reason why she did what she did.

“In exploring my purpose, I have now moved on from sport as a vehicle and look at inclusion and belonging more broadly, I define my career purpose to influence change in society to become more disability inclusive so that peo-

ple with disability have more communities and spaces to feel a sense of belonging,” she said.

“I feel there are not enough leaders that have lived experience that reflect the wider community, leaders in prominent positions of power should come from the backgrounds that they are representing, but often this cohort do not have access to the education, career pathways and opportunities to be able to lead,”

“In activating my purpose, I have learnt that to be a truly successful person, you need to own your whole self-flaws and all, I have chosen to use my lived experience as a Deaf woman as a force for change.”

Chris Varney and Mija Gwyn have been reappointed as Chair and Deputy Chair of the VDAC respectively. Mr Varney is the founding director and Chief Enabling Officer of I CAN Network, Australia’s largest autistic-led organisation, mentoring over 3,000 young people annually.

Ms Gwyn is the Head of Youth Disability Advocacy Service (YDAS), and has led and coordinated community development, film festivals and arts projects in the United Kingdom and Australia.

Ms Hale said being absolutely and unapologetically proud of who you are and the diversity you bring to the community will change the attitudes and mindsets of everyone we meet along the way.

“To start this cultural change, I believe that there needs to be more leaders in visible and prominent positions of power and change makers that come from the backgrounds that they are representing,” she said.

“I believe that people with disability need to lead all decision making about people with disability, in government, service provision, advocacy and more,”

“Often this cohort do not have access to the same education, employment and opportunities as the mainstream community to be able to lead, this is why opportunities like the Victorian Disability Advisory Council are so important.”

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Collaborate! unites choirs

By

The musical prowess of some of the Yarra Ranges’ most established choirs will be on show at the end of this month as they come together for Collaborate!.

Combining four choirs, a string ensemble and instrumentalists from the Valley and Dandenong Ranges, with the Yarra Valley Singers’ musical director Belinda Gillam Derry at the helm, the 30 August performance will deliver everything from the classics to original compositions.

The event will feature individual performances from Ranges Young Strings directed by Rosie Burns, Badger Creek Women’s Choir directed by Jenny Legg, The Hills Singers directed by Christelise de Graaf, Kaleidoscope/Vokallista directed by Barb McFarlane and Yarra Valley Singers’ Day, Evening and Chamber Choirs, before they all come together for a mass choir performance, with orchestral accompaniment by the Ranges Young Strings and guest professional artists.

Ms Gillam Derry said the idea for Collaborate! stemmed from wanting to offer smaller choirs the ability to engage in professional development, attract new members and put on a great musical performance.

Receiving a Yarra Ranges Council annual community grant, Ms Gillam Derry said this eased the pressure of putting on a show of this scale.

“It meant we could hire a venue, put on a really good event with everyone contributing a little bit, as the other choirs might not necessarily have the wherewithal to organise a big event by themselves,” she said.

“They would get to hear each other as well, so we could all learn from each other. This event in particular, we thought for the first time, we would mix groups that sing from notated scores and groups that learn by ear.”

While some choral groups use sheet music, others purely learn the tune and lyrics by ear.

“Yarra Valley Singers always use music, but there are a lot of people in the community who like singing, who don’t know how to read music,” Ms Gillam Derry said.

“There are groups of singers that don’t rely on the sheet music, and we thought, wouldn’t it be great if we could work out a way that we could bring together all these people who love singing without discriminating between whether they can read music or not read music and what tools would we need to provide to enable that to happen?”

Ms Gillam Derry said to ensure everyone could learn the compositions they would be performing, they produced manuscripts, but also recorded parts individually and each of the rehearsals.

As part of the performance lead-up, Ms Gillam Derry said it was essential to her that workshops be included, alongside rehearsals, so singers could learn new skills and feel confident in their performing.

“When I started conducting Yarra Valley Singers, which was in 1996, so nearly 30 years ago now, there were only six people who could read music.

“But every year now, I run workshops introducing singers to how to read music. So that was

two of the workshops that we shared with the other choirs. We also did another workshop on understanding your voice.”

The Collaborate! performance itself will be held at the Mount Evelyn Christian School hall, from 2pm to 4pm, with each group performing a 10-minute bracket.

30 August.

“The repertoire list will go from some classical stuff, through ‘70s and ‘80s covers, through to pop.”

The mass choir will then perform five songs, two of which will be original compositions from Barb McFarlane and composer Sam Hartley.

“Barb McFarlane’s is called Deeper, and she wrote it during the lockdowns. The words are, ‘we have reached deeply to find the best and draw it up, and now we need to reach again, deeper’.

“It’s just so moving. It’s a really simple piece that everyone gets so moved by. They just love it, because we all remember what it was like.”

Sam Hartley’s piece is far more personal, having written it as a requiem after his father’s death last year. The choirs will be performing the ‘Agnus Dei’ from his requiem.

“Sam chose to write a requiem, and because his father liked the music of Eastern Europe, Sam had written the requiem in Ukrainian,” Ms Gillam Derry said.

The Ukrainian words translated into English are ‘Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, give them peace! Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, grant them peace forever!”

“This is also moving because of what’s still happening in Ukraine, and everyone is wishing for peace for their country.”

The Ranges Young Strings will accompany this piece, with the support of some mentors who have worked with them throughout the performance rehearsals.

To finish up the performance, the mass choir will end on the Hallelujah Chorus to give the smaller choirs a chance to perform this wellknown classic.

Book tickets by visiting: eventbookings. com/b/event/collaborate-2025-a-yarra-ranges-musical-celebration

Details can also be found on the Yarra Valley Singers website, or for inquiries, contact singersyarravalley@gmail.com

Yarra Ranges sets the scene for The Dispatcher film

Scenes of the Yarra Ranges will be shown in new TV series The Dispatcher as the region goes from strength to strength as it delivered a $50 million boost to the state’s economy.

Warburton, Mount Dandenong and Hoddles Creek were the locations for separate scenes from the new psychological drama starring Gotham Award-winning actor Patrick Brammall.

Based on Ryan David Jahn’s novel of the same name, the story was adapted by Victorian writer and executive producer Kris Mrksa, where Mr Brammall starred as a former police detective who is searching for his missing daughter.

The Dispatcher is the latest of screen productions filmed in the Yarra Ranges, with the original Stan series Gnomes also having drawn upon Warburton’s picturesque setting.

Screen productions can significantly boost the economies of the towns it features - this production created 768 jobs for Victorian cast and crew, employed 900 background artists, booked 21,000 hotel nights across the state and engaged 735 local businesses.

Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks recently visited The Dispatcher set at Docklands Studios Melbourne to meet actor Brendan Cowell, director Christian Schwochow and executive producers Hakan Kousetta and Joanna Werner as filming on the six-part series wrapped up after 20 weeks in Victoria.

It also provided invaluable training, development and employment for 22 emerging

Victorian screen practitioners in diverse roles such as shadowing director, assistant director, shadowing producer and across areas including production design, lighting, transport and scriptwriting.

The series also stars BAFTA Award nominee Maxine Peake (Words of War, Say Nothing, Black Mirror), Brendan Cowell (Dune: Prophecy, Plum), Daniel Henshall (Mickey 17, How to Make Gravy), Jessica Wren (Mr. Inbetween, Return to Devil’s Playground), Zahra Newman (Thirteen Lives, Addition) and newcomer Chloe Jean Lourdes.

The series is executive produced by Emmy® Award winners Jamie Laurenson and Hakan Kousetta from 60Forty Films (Slow Horses, Hijack), alongside Christian Schwochow, Kris Mrksa and Joanna Werner at Werner Film Productions, who have provided local production services. They are joined by producer Katharina Haase, co-producer Stuart Menzies and line producer Amanda Crittenden.

The Labor Government’s screen strategy has so far created 44,000 jobs and generated $1.7 billion in direct economic expenditure in Victoria – securing the state’s reputation as a global destination for screen and games production.

The Dispatcher was backed by the Labor Government’s Victorian Screen Incentive and also received support from the Federal Government’s Location Offset, administered by the Office of the Arts.

Young’s kangaroo stamp

Before federation in 1901, Australia did not exist as a Commonwealth-recognised country.

It was a collection of entities we now call states, plus a few territories.

Our state, Victoria, has a special place in the history of Australian stamps, because Victorian colonists declined to use stamps printed in England and printed their own stamps, using what was to hand at the time.

This led to great variation in quality, plate production techniques, printing methods, and paper supplies.

This year, Australia marks 124 years since federation, though we build on a 60,000-year foundation of First Nations occupation and custodianship.

Following federation, Australian philately began on 2 January 1913 with the issue of a red one

CARTOON

Looking back

Paula Herlihy Mount Evelyn History Group President

penny ‘Kangaroo and Map’ stamp with the word ‘Australia’.

It did not feature the British monarch’s head, as the Fisher Government of the time included many who strenuously opposed the inclusion of the monarch’s profile on Australian stamps, and had had hopes of an Australian Republic.

The 2025 Children’s Book Week is now in full swing.

The new government had run a Stamp Design Competition, and the winning design was an entry by William Blamire Young (1862 – 1935), known as Blamire Young, who was born in England, died in Montrose, and is buried in the Lilydale Cemetery.

He taught mathematics, fine art and English literature, and first came to Australia in 1885 as a mathematics master.

He is best remembered now as a designer and water colourist.

Initially the design was ridiculed, with a tuft of grass re-interpreted as ‘rabbit ears poking out of a burrow’, and the offending tuft was removed from the final design.

Tasmania was added, as Young’s design had not included Tasmania.

One of the first acts of the Cook Government,

sworn in on 14 June 1913, was to order a series of postage stamps designed with the profile of the British monarch, George V.

The Postmaster-General’s Department then kept both basic designs on issue – 38 years for the Kangaroo and Map design and 23 years for the George V.

From 1923 Blamire Young lived at ‘Mutamaro’, Montrose, on acreage at the corner of Swansea and Edinburgh Roads, diagonally opposite where the York On Lilydale is sited today.

Blamire Young died at his home on 14 January 1935.

In 1976, a stamp was issued in his honour for National Stamp Week.

Turn off Offerman

The Life of Chuck Starring Tom Hiddleston, Annalise Basso and Mark Hamill M 3.75/5

Directed by Mike Flanagan and based on a Stephen King novella, The Life of Chuck is a poignant, life-affirming drama about facing personal and global mortality and not letting the world trample your passion, sadly hampered by intrusive narration.

The Life of Chuck is presented in reversechronological order: Act 3 shows the world lurching to an end as Charles “Chuck” Krantz dies of cancer, Act 2 has Chuck dance spontaneously in the street one day, and Act 1 shows youngChuckfindinganenduringlovefordance.

With low-key performances and intricate dialogue, the sombre Act 3 shows how if the world is slowly, haphazardly ending, all you can do is talk about it and be there for those you love.

The best scene in the film is an electric, sexy, joyous scene of Chuck dancing with a stranger named Janice (Annalise Basso) to a busker’s drumming in Act 2.

Act 1 features Mark Hamill as Chuck’s nurturing but troubled grandfather and neatly ties the rest of the film together.

lates the imaginative terrain of Act 3 with little details and conversations, meaning our comprehension runs backward like the narrative. My main issue with The Life of Chuck is Nick Offerman’s obtrusive narration, which so often needlessly describes what we can easily see or infer ourselves.

Chuck and Janice’s wonderful street-dance needs no intrusive exposition for us to enjoy it or appreciate its significance to Chuck.

80 years of Book Week PASSION FOR PROSE

Act 1 turns Chuck’s Act 2 street-dance into a reminiscence and rebirth of sorts, and popu-

Turn off Offerman and The Life of Chuck would be significantly better. A touching puzzle of many pieces dancing into place but with annoying, excessive narration (though this might just be a pet peeve of mine), The Life of Chuck is playing in most Victorian cinemas. -Seth Lukas Hyne

Taking place from Saturday 16 to Saturday 23 August, the theme of this year’s national event is ‘Book an Adventure’, which encourages young readersto“imagine,explore,andcreatetheirown adventures”.

This year also marks the 80th birthday of the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA), of which the Children’s Book Week is an annual highlight event.

The CBCA was established in 1945, “in a time when Australian children’s books were few, and Australian authors and illustrators were virtually unknown”.

According to the not-for-profit, volunteer-run organisation’s website (cbca.org.au), the CBCA’s aim is to engage the community with literature foryoungAustralianssothattheirlivescanbeenriched through stories.

Its mission: “To connect, communicate, celebrate and advocate for the value of stories.”

Throughout the years, the CBCA has worked with numerous authors, illustrators, publishers, booksellers and other organisations across the country to promote books of outstanding literary and artistic quality to Australian readers of all ages. Not just the children, but their families, teachers and overall community members as well. Apart from the Children’s Book Week, the organisation also administers the annual Book of the Year Awards, which celebrates the remarkablecreators,illustratorsandpublisherswhohelp bringing Australian stories to life.

As of the writing of this article, winners of the 2025 Book of the Year Awards have just been announced.

Gary Lonesborough’s coming-of-age novel I’m Not Really Here won the award for Older

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

Readers, while Maryam Master’s Laughter is the Best Ending, wonderfully illustrated by Astred Hicks, won the award for Younger Readers.

Meanwhile, The Truck Cat, authored by Danny Snell and illustrated by Deborah Frenkel, won the Picture Book of the Year Award.

Our readers would remember the title from this year’s National Simultaneous Storytime back in May. The CBCA further announced winners of the 2025 Shadow Judging Book of the Year Awards.

The annual ‘Sun Project: Shadow Judging’ program invites young readers from groups acrossAustraliatojointheconversationaboutthe Book of the Year Shortlist and choose their own winners. The process is facilitated by teachers and librarians, but participating kids have found it to be a highly-rewarding learning experience.

As great minds think alike, the Shadow Judging Awards for Younger Readers and for Picture Book went to the previously mentioned Laughter is the Best Ending and The Truck Cat, respectively. But the award for Older Readers was won by Sharon Kernot’s Birdy, a tender and heart-warming verse novel.

For more details about the party, see the CBCA Victorian Branch Website: vic.cbca.org.au/ childrens-book-week

Theatre questions, displays 1950s housewife role

1812 Theatre

Home, I’m Darling.

Anunusualplay,thecoupleinvolvedliketoliveinthe ‘50s and the set was built accordingly. Magnificently well done. Broken into three parts, to the audience’s left was the kitchen, excellently done in the ‘50s style, centre stage was the front door and passage down to the front of the stage, where it came to a point, on audience left was the lounge room also very ‘50s, and torearoftheloungeroomupstairswasthebedroom.

The main couple that the story was about were Judy and Johnny.

Judy was played by Danielle Payet, giving a great performance as a ‘50s housewife living at home and supporting her husband while he goes to work. This much to the disgust of some of her friends, who feel that she should be out working.

Johnny,Judy’shusband,wasplayedbyRobBlowers. A good portrayal of the ‘50s man going to work while his wife stays home. But along the way, things don’t quite work out the way they want, and both showedtheexperienceofactinginbothlightcomedy anddrama.Bothhandledthecontrastingrolesexcellentlyandwereappreciatedbytheopeningnightaudience.FranandherhusbandMarcuswerefriendsof the young couple, with Fran played by Susan Collier. Susan gave a good performance in her role, and her husband, Marcus, was played by Thomas O’Hare, who gave a good interpretation of such a character who was not quite what he seemed.

Another friend was Sylvia, played by Genevieve Ryan. Sylvia did not understand why Judy wanted to

stayathomeandjustbeahousewife.Genevievegave an excellent interpretation of such a character and added to the high standard of the company.

Johnny’s boss, Alex, was played by Teghan Webster, who projected well and gave a good portrayal of such a character.

An interesting night of theatre and a mixture of comedy and drama was enjoyed by the opening night audience. Karralyka Theatre.

Aladdin – the Victorian State Ballet

Much loved by children and adults of all ages, Aladdin and his adventures come to life here in a brilliant production and splendour of lush costumes, breathtaking music and beautiful choreography.

A wonderful story of intense love, burning passion,andboldexpression,fulloffantasyandtragedy, Aladdin reminds us of the importance of being who we are and living our lives with truth and honesty to the fullest.

Season: Friday 22 and Saturday 23 August at 7.30pm and Sunday 24 August at 2pm.

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.

ACROSS

1 Electric guitar accessory (3)

3 Generous or forgiving (11)

9 Affable (7)

10 Silhouette (7)

11 Examines (8)

12 Drawer (6)

14 Long fish (3)

15 Scandalous (11)

17 Semi-transparent (11)

19 A can (3)

20 Solution (6)

21 Interpret (8)

24 Passivity (7)

25 Resident of Jerusalem or Tel Aviv (7)

26 Treacherously (11)

27 Miniature (3)

DOWN

1 Designer of buildings (9)

2 Sunshade (7)

3 Corn (5)

4 Jelly-like (10)

5 Behave uncontrollably, run – (4)

6 Forbid (9)

7 Perspective (7)

8 Pleasing taste (5)

13 Distinct classes (11)

15 Possibly guilty (9)

16 Long life (9)

18 Pustule (7)

19 Flood (7)

20 Excuse (5)

22 Grouchy (5)

23 Holy aura (4)

LUXURY AND STYLE

MEETS COUNTRY LIFESTYLE

PEACE, PRIVACY AND PERFECT VIEWS

LOCATED in a highly desirable pocket of Emerald, relish in complete luxury and privacy at this spectacular residence. The elevated setting provides one of Emerald’s best outlooks, enjoy the always changing views of the rolling valleys and treetops across to the Warburton Ranges.

Immediately upon arrival the sophisticated design elements will capture your attention; the grand foyer entry with impressive curved staircase takes you to the second storey living where floor to ceiling double glazed windows flood the home with natural light and on a cold winter morning, capture the views through the dawn light of the breathtaking valley vista in the distance filled with fog and the spectacular Warburton ranges rising above.

Spacious in design entertain your extended family and friends with ease, the open plan kitchen with Caesarstone benchtops, softclose cabinetry, and bar seating oversees the dining and living space with direct access through bi-fold doors to the sandstone balcony.

For the growing family a generous second spacious living room with equally as impressive views could be enclosed to create a private sitting room, parents retreat, kids hang out or enjoyed as it is. Also, on the second floor the master suite boasts a private sitting area and luxurious ensuite bathroom complete with spa bath.

The remaining bedrooms are located downstairs in the “kids wing”, all are serviced by the family bathroom, bedrooms three and four both have walk in wardrobes. An additional powder room downstairs is a welcomed addition. Also under roofline, the double garage features a private WC, workshop space and internal access. Special additions include gas ducted heating, evaporative cooling, timber flooring and a bright neutral colour scheme throughout.

Outside the features continue, the 2,682m2 allotment boasts terraced and landscaped gardens that are filled mature plantings and established shade trees that burst with colour in the Autumn months. Secure off-street parking and bitumen driveway are both added bonuses.

Located only a short driving to the bustling Emerald township, quality cafes, restaurants, Primary and Secondary schools, public transport and parkland are all at your fingertips.

This property should be at the top of your list, inspection is an absolute must.

HOME ESSENTIALS

OUTSTANDING VALLEY VIEWS WITH EXTENDED LIVING POTENTIAL

PERFECTLY positioned between the vibrant townships of Emerald and Belgrave and offering easy access to Wellington Road, this beautifully appointed two storey family home presents a rare blend of peaceful seclusion, modern living and outstanding valley views. Set across two thoughtfully designed levels and immaculately maintained throughout, the home delivers exceptional comfort, flexibility and style. The upper level features spacious open plan living and separate dining area, both flooded with natural light and framed by expansive double glazed windows that draw in the stunning scenery beyond. The designer kitchen is a true centrepiece, featuring a large island bench, smart design cabinetry, quality appliances and abundant storage-ideal for everyday living and entertaining alike.

Three generous bedrooms can be found throughout the home, two of them with plush carpets and all with quality window furnishings that offer both luxury and practicality. The lower level boasts a versatile lounge or studio space with its own entrance, ideal for guests, teenagers, extended family, or a dedicated home office. This area also connects internally to the oversized double garage, providing even more flexibility. All three bathrooms have been finished to an exacting standard and compete with those from pages of a home magazine. Comfort is assured year-round with ducted heating and split system heating/cooling upstairs and a charming wood fire plus under floor heating downstairs while large sliding doors open to a stunning Trex Eco Timber deck-perfect for soaking up the panoramic views and fresh hills air. The appeal continues outdoors with a beautifully maintained garden, lower level decking, an outdoor spa for ultimate relaxation, sealed driveway plus ample parking.

All of this and more only a short drive from Belgrave train station and within walking distance to public transport, this is a truly special offering in a sought after hills location. ●

A MASTERPIECE WITH BREATHTAKING VIEWS

THIS newly built exceptional home has been designed with style and sophistication that will appeal to all. Sleek, modern, and meticulously furnished, its simplicity allows the home to be the highlight, with majestic mountain views as a backdrop. Perched high with privacy as a priority, you won’t want to leave.

This home features premium efficiency throughout, boasting a 6.5 star energy rating, double glazed windows and doors, low energy LED lighting, and natural gas hydronic heating. Every inch of the home feels warm, with an additional level of comfort provided by three split systems. The versatile layout includes four bedrooms and three bathrooms, plus study.

Upstairs, the master bedroom features quality carpets, a large walk in robe, and a sumptuous ensuite. The kitchen serves as the centerpiece of the home with ample space, stone benchtops, seamless and extensive cupboards, quality appliances, and a butler’s pantry, a delight for the chef in the family.

The home features hybrid flooring throughout and an open plan living and dining area with high architectural ceilings that add to the bright modern vibe. The expansive, zero maintenance composite decking offers the best seat in the house, overlooking the golf course and spectacular views of Mount Little Joe. Two additional bedrooms and a large family bathroom complete this level.

Downstairs offers a fabulous setup with a double garage spanning around 56m², a storeroom, and a studio/bathroom with its own patio and access to the gardens. This turnkey property presents an opportunity for an executive buyer looking for a grand weekender, an Airbnb for the up and coming bike tracks, or a home with nothing left to do except enjoy. A superb location with easy access to walking tracks, the pristine Yarra river, shops and cafes - not to mention a wander across the road for the morning round of golf! ●

CuteCottage,OverHalfanAcre– ReadytoEnjoy! Setona fantastic,fullyfencedallotmentthis2 bedroomcottageisallreadyandwaiting,justbring yourfurnitureandstartenjoyingtherelaxedlifestyleonoffer.PositionedclosetotheiconicRedwood Forest,theReeftonPub,andsurroundedbypicturesquewalkingandbiketrails,thischarming homeofferstheultimateweekendescapeoridealfirsthome.Inside,you’llfind amodernkitchen withamplecupboardandbenchspace,a freshandlightfilledbathroom,newcarpetsandpaint throughout,andsplitsystemheatingandcoolingforyearroundcomfort.Stepoutsidetotherear deckandtakeinstunningmountainviews,enjoytheopenspace,thekidsandfamilypetswill lovethespacetorun!Thisdelightfulcottageis agreatstarterortheidealweekenderina peaceful locationclosetonatureandthegorgeousYarrariver.

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068

FamilyLivingatitsBestwithLoadsofExtras SittingonoverhalfanacreofflatusablelandandbackingontothepicturesqueHoddlesCreekthis locationissuperb.Thelargefamilyhomeboasts 4bedrooms, 3bathroomsand 2living/loungeareas with afunctionalandflexiblefloorplantosuitthegrowingfamily,thefreshmodernkitchenboasts qualityappliancesandfittingsthroughoutwithamplebenchandcupboardspace.Headoutside andenjoythefantasticoutdoorsanytimeoftheyearfromthecoveredentertainingBBQareato theingroundpool.Plentyofcaraccommodationwith ahugelockupgarage/workshopplusloads ofextraspacefortrucks,trailersandcaravans, aseparatebungalow/studioistheidealspotfor teenagers,weekendguestsorthedependentrelatives.A sensationalpropertyina gloriouslocation withjustminutesawaytolocalschools,shopsandtransport.

DavidCarroll M 0419539320

TranquilRetreaton ½acreBorderingtheYarraStateForest Aquietretreatseton ageneroushalfacreblockthatbacksdirectlyontothebreathtakingYarra StateForest.Lightfilledandwelcoming,featuringtwogenerouslivingareas,polishedtimberfloors, anda cosywoodfire.Themodernkitchenoffersplentyofbenchspace,connectingeffortlessly withthediningarea,with asplitsystemprovidesyearroundcomfort.Threegoodsized,carpeted bedrooms,eachwithbuiltinrobes,alongwitha modernbathroom.Thoughtfullydesignedlargebuilt instoragecupboardsanda cleverlyintegratedlaundrytuckedbehindcupboarddoors.Additional featuresincludea lockupshedadjacenttothecarport,gardenshed,woodstorageand awater tank.Positionedona quietcountryroadjustmomentsfromtheYarraRiverandpopularaqueduct trail.Idealforthoseseekinga peacefulescapewithmoderncomforts.

PositionedjustminuteswalktoYarraJunctions’towncentrethischarmingpropertyoffersallthe convenienceatyourfingertips.Offering 3goodsizebedrooms,largefamilysizeliving/loungearea leadingoutto acoveredentertainingareaanda securelyfencedbackyardit’stheidealspotfor thekidsandpetstoenjoyandexplore.Thekitchenspaciousandhasplentyofbenchandcupboard spaceplusa separatemeals/diningarea,thelargefrontdeckingoffersextraoutdoorlivingand entertaining.Amplecaraccommodationwith alargedoublecarportandextracarspace, agreat propertyin aconvenientlocationandjust ashortstrolltolocalschools,shopsandtransport.

DavidCarroll M 0419539320

TIMELESS ELEGANCE ON NEARLY AN ACRE

NESTLED on the historically significant Nobelius Street, this enchanting home blends timeless character with modern functionality and artistic charm. Set on just under an acre in one of Emerald’s most sought-after locations, this property is more than a home, it’s a retreat.

From the moment you arrive, the property’s charm is evident, with a grand tiered fountain and classic gravel pathways leading to a thoughtfully designed residence. Inside, the home offers five bedrooms, three bathrooms, and three spacious living areas, perfectly suited for family living and entertaining. The master suite features a private ensuite, walk-in robe, and access to an undercover deck with a spa for ultimate relaxation.

The elegant kitchen is the heart of the home, boasting shaker cabinetry, stone benchtops, premium appliances, and a large island bench ideal for gathering. Living spaces include a welcoming lounge with a fireplace, an expansive family room opening to a full-length entertainer’s deck, and a unique downstairs retreat. This lower-level space combines oldworld charm with artistic design, creating a one-of-a-kind area that’s perfect for hosting or unwinding.

Outside, the landscaped gardens are a haven for nature lovers, featuring fruit trees, a greenhouse, and a chicken coop. A highclearance carport accommodates a van or boat, with ample onsite and off-street parking for added convenience. Located just three minutes from Emerald’s schools, shops, and transport, this home offers the perfect balance of privacy and accessibility.

Key Features:

• Nearly an acre of landscaped gardens with fruit trees, a greenhouse, and a spa.

• Five bedrooms, three bathrooms, and three large living spaces. Master suite with ensuite, walk-in robe, and spa access.

Elegant kitchen with premium appliances and a walk-in pantry.

• Unique downstairs retreat blending old-world charm with artistic design.

• Peaceful location, just three minutes from every convenience.

• This is a home where heritage meets modern living, offering space, style, and serenity. ●

PRIVATE AND PICTURESQUE FAMILY RETREAT

IF you dream of owning a private, picturesque oasis in the lush Dandenong Ranges, “Forest Keep” will fulfil your heart’s desire. Ideally situated within walking distance of thriving townships and merely minutes down the mountain to major amenities, this property provides a tree-change without sacrificing convenience.

Atop the sealed drive, this home is immersed in extraordinary natural surrounds with ponds, tree ferns, deciduous beauties, fruit trees, maples, and over a dozen mature rhododendrons all culminating in a feast for the senses. Attracting endless local wildlife, this property is abuzz with activity year-round.

Taking pride of place is the quality brick 2-storey family residence. Rich with versatility, beginning with a lower ground floor studio space with exposed bricks and beams and French doors to the garden, this enticing residence invites buyers to imagine how it will enhance their lifestyle.

Upstairs, the lovely light-filled formal lounge and dining area with wrap-around floor to ceiling windows is awash with views across the summit of Mount Dandenong. The central and stylish recently renovated kitchen is adorned with solid wood cabinetry, 900mm gas range, and walk-in pantry. The servery bar overlooks the second living area with cosy wood fire ideal for cool winter evenings.

For complete family comfort, there are 4 generous bedrooms on offer, highlighted by the main bedroom with double shower ensuite and spacious walk-in robe. The family bathroom has been thoughtfully updated to include a heated towel rail, waterfall taps, and relaxing soaker tub.

With additional features including a wood shed, 56,000L rain storage tank, off-grid gas supply, Nectre Mega wood stove (35kW output), water heating with a wetback to the stove, this property offers a beautifully balanced lifestyle with a minimal eco footprint. An exceptional all-rounder in world-class surrounds, this property requires prompt inspection to call it home. Plan your viewing today.

Private and picturesque 3,035sqm (approx.) property with sealed drive, ample off-street parking, and fibre-to-the-curb 100/40Mbps internet (FTTC)

• Beautiful quality brick home with formal and informal living areas with floor to ceiling windows

• Recently renovated kitchen with solid timber cabinetry and gas range

• 4 generous family bedrooms including main with ensuite and walk-in robe

Inspirational and versatile lower level studio space with French doors to the garden Lush landscape with endless local wildlife including king parrots, cockatoos, rosellas, lyrebirds, wallabies, wombats, echidnas, deer, tawny frogmouths, pardalotes, fairy wrens, superior owls, and more. ●

AWE INSPIRING ‘MIMOSA HOUSE’!

IF you are looking for the most stunning property on the mountain - this is it!

This exceptional home resides on nearly an acre with dual access and is the latest offering from the renowned Sanco Build Group working in collaboration with UXD Architects and Adam Naulty Landscape Design.

Featuring 4 spacious bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 living areas, 8 car accommodation and all fully fenced & landscaped from boundary to boundary this architectural masterpiece offers luxury, practicality, convenience & the ultimate in comfort. This property really does have to be seen to be believed, with nothing to do & too many features to mention.

Some of the highlights include:

• Dual access from front & rear

• 9 foot ceilings throughout

• An abundance of double glazed doors & windows , natural light & private views

• Stunning entertainer’s kitchen with walk in pantry

Tundra and Carrara Marble features in the kitchen and bathrooms

Under floor heating in bathrooms

Stunning european cast wood fire & a dumb waiter to transport wood

• Mains gas ducted heating

• Engineered black butt floors and gorgeous polished concrete features

• Hikvision video security system

• 6+ star energy rating with double glazed windows

Views over Wright Forrest

Landscaping including over 400 plants & exposed concrete driveway

1kW hot water pump and a 6kW solar panel system

• Full C-Bus automation for remote access to heating, blinds, gate, shed door & lightingDedicated wine cellar

• 10m x 6m under house garage

• 6.8m x 15.7m workshop/shed

• And the list goes on!

The photos do not do this property justice and I doubt it would be possible in today’s climate to build such a luxurious, move in ready home in such a private, peaceful & natural location for the price at which this property is being offered today - book an inspection & do the sums yourself!

This property has it all so don’t miss out

- CALL TO ARRANGE A PRIVATE INSPECTION

TODAY! Call Samantha Scott 0438 680 032. 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. ●

CharmingHomeon1/4AcrewithShedSpaceGalore. JustminutesfromEmeraldtownship,schools,cafés,andshops,thischarming3-bedroom, 2-bathroomhomesitson agenerous1/4-acre. Agardenpathwayleadstoa wrap-around verandah,whileinside,theopen-plankitchen/diningfeaturesslatefloors,gascooking,dishwasher, pantry,skylight,andamplestorage.Thespaciousloungewithstone-surroundwoodheateropens totheverandahandcourtyard,withyear-roundcomfortfromreversecycleductedsplitheating/ cooling.Theprivatemasteroffersanensuite,whiletwofurtherbedroomssharea centralbathroom. Outdoorsboastsa fullyfencedyard,doublecarport,seconddrivewaywithgatedcarport,garden shed,andanimpressive6m x12mshedwithwoodheater,workbench,andtoilet.Move-inready,this homeoffersspacetoentertain,workfromhome,orsimplyenjoythepeacefulEmeraldlifestyle.

FamilyHomeonPrivateBlock,ClosetoTown!

IntheheartofCockatoo,thisupdated3-bedroomhomeon967sqmblendsprivacywith convenience.Freshlypaintedwithnewgutters,itfeaturesa concretedrivewayto acoveredentry. Thelight-filledloungehaslargewindowsandsplitsystem,flowingtothedining/kitchenandan undercoverdeck.Allbedroomsincludebuilt-inrobes,servicedbya centralbathroomandseparate toilet.Outdoors, afullyfencedyardwithgazeboisperfectforkidsandpets. A11m x7mdouble garagewithpowerandrearofficeaddsversatility.Walkingdistancetotown,it’s astylish,spacious retreat. 15KitchenerParadeCockatoo$690,000

EffortlessLivingintheHeartofEmerald.

On apeaceful1/4-acrenearEmerald’sshops,schools,andtownship,this3-bedroom,2-bathroom homeblendscomfortandstyle.Blackbutttimberfloorsandgasductedheatingcreatea warm welcome,whiletheopen-planliving/diningflowstoa hugeundercoveralfrescowithmerbau deckingandceilingfan.Thekitchenboastsstonebenchtops, a900mmgasoven,dishwasher, pantry,andgardenviews.Allbedroomshavebuilt-inrobes,servicedbya centralbathroom,powder room,andlaundrywithoutdooraccess. Asecondliving/rumpus,study,andextrabathroomoffer flexibility.Outdoors,enjoya fullyfencedyard,powereddoublegaragewithsideaccess,off-street parking,3,000-litrewatertank,and1.6kWsolar—perfectforrelaxedEmeraldliving.

Privatelypositionedattheendofa quietroadon3,144sqm,thiselegantfamilyhomecombines moderncomfortwithtimelessstyle.A full-lengthverandah &granddoubledoorsleadintoa beautifullyappointedinteriorfeaturingpolishedJarrahfloors,9ftceilings &a wideformalfoyer. Theopen-plankitchen/livingzoneoffersstonebenchtops,gascooktop,walk-inpantry,woodfire &seamlessaccesstoboth acovereddeck &centralcourtyard.TheMasterRetreatwith awalkinrobe,ensuite &Frenchdoorstothedeck.3 additionalbedroomseachincludewalk-inrobes& ceilingfans, asecondlivingarea,homeoffice/fifthbedroom,stylishbathroom,ductedheating,split system,ductedvacuum &largelaundry.Outside, a3-baygaragewithmezzanine,woodshed& sealeddrivewaysitamongleafygardens-offeringpeace,privacy& spaceforthewholefamily.

$1,300,000 -$1,430,000 SamanthaScott M 0438680032 4 A 2 B 3 C

Planning and Environment Act 1987

YARRA RANGES PLANNING SCHEME

Notice of the preparation of an amendment to a planning scheme

Amendment C225yran

The Yarra Ranges Shire Council has prepared Amendment C225yran to the Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme.

The land affected by the amendment is a total of 13,724 properties across the Yarra Ranges municipality.

The amendment proposes to implement the recommendations of the Yarra Ranges Erosion Management Overlay, Basis for Mapping Amendment (WSP, April 2025) by making updates to outdated Erosion Management Overlay (EMO) mapping in the planning scheme. This includes deleting the EMO from properties, introducing the EMO to new properties or modifying where the EMO applies on properties.

In addition, the amendment proposes to split the EMO into two Schedules. A new Schedule 1 will manage landslip susceptibility, while a new Schedule 2 will identify land susceptible to debris flow. The amendment also proposes related updates to other parts of the Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme.

You may inspect the amendment, any documents that support the amendment and the explanatory report about the amendment, free of charge, from 21 October 2025 at:

• the Department of Transport and Planning website www.planning.vic.gov.au/public-inspection or by contacting 1800 789 386 to arrange a time to view the amendment documentation.

• the Yarra Ranges Council website at www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/C225; and

• on request, during office hours, at the office of the planning authority, by contacting 1300 368 333 to arrange a time to view the amendment documentation.

Any person may make a submission to the planning authority about the amendment. Submissions must be made in writing giving the submitter’s name and contact address, clearly stating the grounds on which the amendment is supported or opposed and indicating what changes (if any) the submitter wishes to make.

Name and contact details of submitters are required for the planning authority to consider submissions and to notify such persons of the opportunity to attend planning authority meetings and any public hearing held to consider submissions.

The closing date for submissions is 3 October 2025

A submission must be made on-line via www. yarraranges.vic.gov.au/C225 or mailed to Design and Place, Yarra Ranges Council, PO Box 105 Lilydale 3140. Please quote Amendment C225.

The planning authority must make a copy of every submission available at its office and/or on its website for any person to inspect free of charge until the end of the two months after the amendment comes into operation or lapses.

Alison Fowler

Executive Officer Strategic Planning

12791968-JO33-25

Wheelchair league launch

A six-association wheelchair basketball league has launched in Victoria, with Kilsyth Basketball set to compete in the five-week tournament.

Basketball Victoria announced the inaugural Victorian Wheelchair Basketball League (VWBL) on Wednesday 13 August, citing it as a step forward for inclusion and high-performance basketball.

The 2025 season will showcase talent from six associations, including Bendigo, Frankston, Kilsyth, Geelong, Wyndham and Diamond Valley.

Basketball Victoria’s diversity and inclusion manager Sheena Atkins said the launch of this new league marked a huge milestone for the sport in Victoria.

“It’s not just about growing the game – it’s about strengthening the athlete pathway and providing more competitive opportunities at every level,” she said.

The season gets underway in Bendigo on 13 September, with Kilsyth to host the third round on Saturday 4 October.

“It’s taken a huge team effort to bring the league to fruition. Hosting a round allows our local community to see first-hand the passion, skill, and resilience of our athletes,” Kilsyth Basketball competitions manager Lynda Spicer said.

“We’re committed to providing a competitive, fun environment that supports every player to reach their potential.”

With a focus on bridging the gap between introductory clinics and elite competition, the league provides a structured, state-level platform for wheelchair athletes to grow and compete.

The league will have mixed-gender teams and welcome able-bodied athletes, creating an inclusive space for both experienced and emerging players.

Approximately 60 skilled athletes with the amazing support of their associations, coaches, admin staff and volunteers will compete over a five-week season culminating in a grand final event held at State Basketball Centre (SBC).

The launch of the VWBL will give these talented athletes the chance to represent their association alongside able-bodied teams.

Basketball Victoria’s new wheelchair basketball league is now accepting expressions of interest for keen athletes.

Athletes will have the opportunity to play in a highly competitive, supportive environment that celebrates skill development, sportsmanship, and the love of the game. Basketball Victoria is calling on all interested athletes - whether you’re chasing high-performance goals or look-

ing for your next sporting challenge, this league is the perfect pathway. To find out more, go to basketballvictoria.com.au/competitions/victorian-wheelchair-basketball-league

Coldstream’s finals glory

By Hannah Chappell

Coldstream Football Netball Club enjoyed a massive weekend of finals action, with four teams flying the Coldstream flag across grand finals and a crucial preliminary final and coming away with memorable performances and a big win on both court and field.

In netball, three Coldstream teams competed in grand finals, each showcasing strength, unity, and determination.

The White Netball team took on a strong Rowville side in a physical clash.

Despite their best efforts, Rowville pulled ahead to claim a 40–24 win, with Coldstream leaving nothing in the tank.

The Pink team faced Scoresby in a tight, four-quarter contest.

Coldstream fought bravely but fell just short, going down 27–32 in a hard-fought match that could have gone either way.

There was triumph for the Blue team, who led from start to finish against East Ringwood.

With a composed and confident display across the court, Coldstream secured a well-deserved grand final victory.

Ebony Cooper was named Player of the Game after a dominant performance, steering her team to premiership glory.

On the football field, Coldstream’s women’s team took on North Ringwood in a door-die preliminary final and after a slow start, they came alive.

The midfield brigade was unstoppable, with Ella Herrmann and Sophie Stark putting in massive shifts around the ground.

Coldstream dominated the final three quarters to run out 6.10.46 to 3.4.22 winners, earning their spot in next weekend’s grand final.

With a netball premiership in hand and a grand final on the horizon for the women’s football team, Coldstream FNC has plenty to celebrate and even more to look forward to.

Barkerettes best Brunswick in 5-0

display

By Peter Stephenson

A cold Friday night at the Kennel saw Barkerettes (sixth) host Brunswick Zebras (ninth). Zebras had humbled us 4-0 at their place, but since then, Barkers had hit a rich vein of form. The grass pitch was waterlogged, so the game was played on the synthetic pitch.

Barkers took control early on. On five minutes, Hannah Turnbull sent Laelah Gundry down the left, she crossed, and it ran through to Emily Stokes, who hit a first-time shot over. Then Stokes hit a good first-time ball into Amy D’Ortenzio, but she was offside.

Zebras’ first threat was on 13 minutes, when a tame shot from outside the box from Katie Gilfillan gave keeper Ash Fraraccio no trouble.

This season, Barkerettes have made heavy weather of scoring, but you wouldn’t know it on this occasion. On 18 minutes, Fraraccio cleared the ball to Jones in midfield, she played a neat one-two with D’Ortenzio and ran clear from halfway to slot the ball home for an exhilarating opener – 1-0.

Two minutes later, a throw on the left from Turnbull found Gundry. She crossed the ball in, it was cleared back out to her, and she beat keeper Julia Morris at her near post with a precise shot for her first Barkers goal and 2-0.

Morris gifted Barkers their third goal. A sloppy goal kick saw Jones steal the ball from a sleepy defence and tap the ball in for 3-0. This was the first time this year they had scored more than twice in a league game.

Ten minutes before the break, a throw-in on the right found Stokes. She raced down the wing and pinged a lovely cross in. Morris parried, but there was D’Ortenzio on hand to score from close range to make it 4-0, which it remained at the break.

The start of the second half was the Zebras’ best period of the game. A free-kick on the right was played to the far post, where Fraraccio showed that her game-saving repertoire extended to the expertly laid slide tackle.

On 65 minutes, McCullough laid back to Butera, who hit a lovely long ball to find Jones in

space, but keeper Morris won the race to the ball. Then Barkers almost scored the goal of the season. Stokes raced down the right and crossed for Gundry, who smacked a volley just wide.

On 76 minutes, a Zebras corner from the right was headed off the line, but that was as close as they would come for the rest of the game. Two minutes later, Butera hit a long ball from the right. D’Ortenzio, with her back to goal, held off her marker and played back to Gundry. Gundry hit a good shot which Morris blocked, but McCullough beat a defender to the ball and scored Barkers’ fifth.

Jones then went on a solo run through the defence but shot wide, and just before the end, Zebras’ Freja Lindgren hit a shot just beyond the far post, and that was that. Full-time: Barkers 5-0 Zebras.

This was a commanding Barkers’ display, and you wonder if their passing game is better suited to the synthetic. Anyway, that’s football. Next is a trip to Malvern City.

Barkers fall to Skye

By Peter Stephenson

A dull Saturday at the Kennel saw Barkers (fifth) host Skye United (fourth). Barkers made two enforced changes to the side that lost 0-2 at Noble Park. James Barber and Chris Potter (suspended) were replaced by Ben Cooper and John-Paul Cooper. Barkers had never lost to Skye in 10 meetings.

Barkers had an early sight of goal in the second minute when a low ball from the right to Marcus Watson saw him hit a firsttime shot wide. Six minutes later, a sustained Barkers’ attack saw J-P Cooper’s corner cleared out to Danny Aye, his cross from the left was also cleared, then Ray Markley drove the ball low towards goal, but Skye keeper Steven Hadjikakou blocked.

Barkers were looking sharp going forward, but were struggling to unlock the Skye defence. On 26 minutes, Ross Clark got to the byline and cut the ball back for J-P.Cooper. He beat off his marker and hit a low shot narrowly wide. Then Barkers got careless, and a Skye cross from the left found Daniel Attard at the far post, but he screwed his shot wide.

On the half hour, some neat play from Barkers saw the ball eventually break for Tristan Walker, who hit a crafty chip which forced Hadjikakou to touch the ball wide.

Then controversy! B.Cooper won the ball on the right wing and crossed. The ball deflected off a defender’s boot onto his hand and looked like a clear penalty, but the referee waved play on.

Half-time 0-0, with Barkers looking the more dangerous side going forward, but Skye’s defence holding out.

As the second half began, Barkers suddenly broke through. A scramble in the Skye box saw the ball drop kindly for Aye, who scored from close range to make it 1-0 Barkers. Then Watson had a good chance to double the lead, but put his shot over. Barkers would very quickly regret this moment.

Five minutes later, Skye sent the ball down the right wing. A beauty of a cross came in, and Attard came flying in with a header for a

spectacular equaliser – 1-1. Barkers came straight back at Skye as Watson hit a low snapshot, which was beaten away by Hadjikakou, and Aye hit the rebound high and wide. Then Watson somehow kept his balance to find Clark in space. He had only the keeper to beat, but put the ball wide. The tide now turned, as Barkers seemed to forget the style they had used to dominate so far. With 20 minutes to go, Skye’s Alexandro Boisseranc laid back to Ben Lund, who volleyed over. Then the inevitable. Van Heerwaarden passed to Boisseranc, got the ball back and flicked it over Velikin to put Skye in front at 2-1.

Things didn’t get any better for Barkers when Skye brought on Varmah Mgoneh on the left wing.

He proved too hot for Barkers to handle and struck a shot against the bar. Then Clark received his marching orders for a second yellow, and there was no way back for the hosts. Full-time: Barkers 1-2 Skye. This was a game the Barkers should have had in the bag by halftime. Barkers have lost their last two, but incredibly can still go up with only three games to play.

Next is a trip to Casey Comets.

Capping off the season

By Geoff ‘Joffa’ Newstead

Mooroolbark Football Club announced its U19.5 coaching group for season 2026. Cayden Maki, Harrison Keeling, Jackson Gilbee and Matthew Bishop will lead this new team into the upcoming season.

With these three experienced senior players bringing their commitment, passion and football knowledge to this team, it will be amazing to watch. Cayden has been playing senior football since he was 16. He was selected for the Eastern Ranges and was on the list of the Box Hill Hawks and Footscray Bulldogs in previous years. Harrison also came out of the Eastern Ranges system and, along with Jackson, played their first senior games at the age of 18. Cayden and Harrison were both vice captains for season 2025 and Jackson was also in the leadership group. An added bonus for all three of them, working in the education department, is learning and enhancing their teaching skills.

Joining them is Port Adelaide premiership and 150 AFL games player Matthew Bishop. Matthew has had involvement with the club’s senior and junior clubs over the past eight years and his football knowledge and player development will be vital for the boys’ future. He can’t wait to work alongside these three young men.

Last Saturday saw Mooroolbark Reserves and Seniors men take on Boronia at Miller Park in their final game of the 2025 season. It was always going to be tough for the Ressies with their opponents sitting fourth on the ladder but the Mustangs put in a solid first quarter to trail by a few points at quarter time. The Boronia boys then stepped up a level and dominated the rest of the game. Mustangs skipper, Jono Fraser, was tireless in defence, taking many saving marks, while further up the field, Josh Logg put in his best game of the season. Max Batten was again in the best and Clint George was hard at the ball. It’s been a struggle for the Reserves this season with only one win but if the boys stick together and others can come back from injury they can look forward to improvement in season 2026.

Final Score: Boronia 16 – 12 – 108 d Mooroolbark 2 – 3 – 15

Goals: Wyss 1, Spicer 1

Best Players: Fraser, Logg, M. Batten, George, Kowalski, Wyss

The Seniors were also up against a top-four side but the boys were determined to finish the season on a high. The first quarter was very even with the Mustangs taking a slender one-point lead into the first break and were able to increase the lead to five points at halftime. The lead changed hands many times in the second half in what was an enthralling encounter. Team Leaders

Kane Noonan and Cayden Maki were sensational, providing lots of drive out of defence and into the forward half. Billy Batten finished off his best season for the club in fine style while Jackson Gilbee was strong down forward, but the biggest accolades must go to Jett Hartman who once again took many telling marks in defence and then in the dying minutes of the game, with the Mustangs trailing by three points, drifted down forward and took a strong mark 45 metres from goal. The siren sounded as he was lining up and with the

pressure on, Jett slotted it through the big stick to give the Mustangs a thrilling three-point victory. It was a great way to finish what has been a very frustrating season and will give the boys something to build on for next season.

Final Score: Moorooolbark 10 – 7 – 67 d Boronia 9 – 10 – 64

Goals: Jac. Gilbee 3, Gebert 2, Maki, Hartman, Batten, Amiet, Downie 1 each Best Players: Hartman, Maki, Noonan, Batten, Jac. Gilbee, Ryan

Local rivals clash as Lilydale head down road to Healesville

By Callum Ludwig

The clash kits were out as the Lilydale Eagles headed up the highway to take on Healesville.

The Reserves were looking to continue their fight for second spot in the league while the Firsts were aiming to upset their second-placed rivals.

In the farewell games for Arno Grote and captain James ‘Becks’ Laine, the Eagles got off to a bright start, looking dangerous going forward.

The deadlock was broken in the 11th minute when Callum Ludwig broke down the righthand side and put in a cross for Grote, who got an inventive flick goalward which the Healesville keeper kept out. The ball spilled clear and eventually made it to Byron Loveless on the edge of the box whose shot took a slight deflection but ended up in the bottom corner to open the scoring.

The Eagles thought they had a penalty shortly after when Tarin Cooper was taken out by the goalkeeper which the ref agreed with at first glance before reversing his decision after consulting the linesman.

Healesville got their best looks on goal by looking long over the back of the Eagles’ defence but Lilydale were able to repel most of their efforts.

Healesville’s first big chance came when they mustered a shot which hit the back of their own player, who Lilydale believed was offside. In the scramble, Healesville got to the rebound and fired off a shot from close range which Daniel ‘Dicko’ Dickson did well to save.

Lilydale’s attacking endeavour slowed later in the half but they looked solid until in the 45th minute, Dylan Donovan’s attempted clearance was met by a Healesville player, resulting in a heavy collision that left Donovan on the floor in pain. Lilydale tried to clear their lines again but that was also blocked and eventually the ball was funnelled out to Chris Bloinck, whose curling shot found the back of the net with the last kick of the half.

The Eagles came out with intent after the half and took back the lead in the 50th minute when Becks found himself with space on the left-hand side. The keeper got a hand to it before inadvertently knocking the ball backwards into the net,

though the goal was still fortuitously awarded to Becks.

In the 57th minute, Loveless earned himself some good karma after he finally set up Tarin Cooper to tuck in the Eagles’ third at the near post, making some inroads to forgiveness after having unintentionally stolen goals from Cooper in recent weeks.

The Eagles continued their ascendancy with some other early half-chances but were unable to capitalise.

Things heated up in the 73rd minute when Grote earned a yellow card for a late challenge, which was followed up by Healesville’s Ben Shannon picked up one himself only minutes later for a late foul on Dicko. This sparked a bit of biffo with players coming in to remonstrate, including the Eagles’ Mark Vanderkolk before he was bowled over shortly after.

Dicko then picked up a yellow card of his own when he handled the ball just outside the penalty area unintentionally, but the Eagles survived the resulting indirect free kick.

The Reserves were able to see out the match comfortably.

The Firsts took the field in the blue clash kit and looked to have gone behind early when a header from a free kick found attacker Daniel Tadesse whose improvised finish found the back of the net, but he was ruled to have strayed offside.

Unfortunately for the Eagles, Dicko misjudged a bouncing ball in the 12th minute and was beaten to it by Healesville striker John-James O’Connell, who was able to hold Dicko off and finish into the bottom corner.

The Eagles tightened things up after that and were able to keep Healesville mostly at bay, with their best chances coming from corners to the back post, which the Eagles were able to clear and one shot which Ludwig was able to get a hand to and tip over.

Unfortunately for Lilydale, their issue was being unable to create many chances of substance and the scoreline remained the same at the break.

Lilydale came out and looked to be more attacking in the second half and started to find

more time and space on the ball closer to the final third.

A few half-chances came and went but the Eagles continued to lack the final killer ball, with neither a pass or cross to create a big chance or a shot that found the target forthcoming.

Lilydale looked solid enough defensively, a positive sign, but that was disrupted in the 77th minute when a Healesville corner to the back post finally paid off after it was headed back across goal and then knocked home by David McInnes.

In the 85th minute, the Eagles were given a lifeline when a back-post ball of their own ended up finding the head of Kaiden Deany-Smith who made it 2-1 and sparked hopes of a comeback. Unfortunately, these were snuffed out in the 89th minute when Dicko and Lachy Hamling didn’t communicate effectively to deal with an aerial duel, resulting in the ball dropping for O’Connell who tipped it over the onrushing Ludwig before running onto it and sealing the game. The Eagles will be back in action away against Maroondah United next week.

They

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