Mail - Upper Yarra Star Mail - 26th August 2025

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Council rejects evidence of racing on Sanders Apple Farm

Badger Creek Men’s Shed to open soon PAGE 3

Burras’ flag

In a phenomenal fashion, Warburton-Wesburn’s Senior Womens team has won the Division Two Senior Women’s Premiership after they took home a thumping win against Emerald on Sunday 24 August.

The win was an emphatic one: The Burras beat Emerald 14.10 (94) to 3.3 (21).

The 73 point win marked a perfect season for the Burras as they cruised to victory with 14 wins and zero losses.

Both teams came out strong, showing their skills and determination right from the first bounce.

However, the Burras quickly established dominance, controlling possession and setting the tone for the rest of the match.

The last term was the most exciting with six goals scored by the Burras, with one notable shot from the pocket by Gabby Woods.

United with the girls, supporters filled the oval celebrating with their loved ones on the clubs achievement of an undefeated season and a premiership win.

Read more on page 29

With 14 wins and zero losses this season, the Burras won the Premiership with a perfect record. (Supplied)

Resilience to bushfires comes in all shapes and forms. It’s not only embedded in the practices of preparedness but in the learnings from recovery and healing.

The Yarra Ranges knows the risks when it comes to bushfires, with many parts of the shire impacted by Ash Wednesday and having been on the cusp of the Black Saturday fires.

Despite this, every day, researchers, community members, Indigenous leaders, and environmental agencies work to reduce harm, find solutions and build resilience, not only in the land but in communities.

The Star Mail this week kicks off a project called Fire Resilient Communities - an explora-

Only this year was Montrose the site of a lateseason bushfire that caused extensive damage to a key environmental reserve.

tion of the initiatives being undertaken across the Yarra Valley, Dandenong Ranges and urban parts of the shire to protect from and predict the risk of bushfires.

Funded through the Walkley Solutions Journalism Fund, this project will produce a series of six articles, each looking at the different aspects of fire preparedness and resilience.

From there, articles will look at the grassroots impact of community groups, the role of social recovery, environmental regeneration and predictions for the upcoming fire season.

See pages 8 and 9

To begin, this edition features a two-page spread on the role of controlled burns, both planned and cultural, among the initiatives that coincide with pre-summer burning.

Autistic children lose NDIS

Children with autism who rely on the NDIS for support will be diverted to a new program, touted by disability groups as a “once-in-a-generation” reform.

Disability Minister Mark Butler used a speech at the National Press Club on Wednesday 20 August to say the NDIS was not the right fit for the growing number of children on the autism spectrum or with development delays.

A separate program called Thriving Kids will be set up to focus on those children previously covered by the NDIS.

It will begin rolling out from July 2026 and be fully implemented by July 2027.

Children with autism on the NDIS would not be steered from the scheme until supports were fully rolled out, the minister said.

“I know this will be hard for some parents to hear and I don’t say it lightly,” Mr Butler said in the speech.

“We need as a matter of some urgency to create a better system that will enable our children to thrive.

“Diverting this group of kids over time from the NDIS is an important element of making the scheme sustainable and returning it to its original intent.”

Medicare items for occupational therapy, speech pathology and psychosocial therapy would be considered for the program, including a bulk-billed check-up for three-year-olds, Mr Butler said.

The government would start by making a $2 billion contribution, matched by states and territories.

Early intervention strategies were key for ensuring children received the right support, Autism Awareness chief executive Nicole Rog-

erson said.

“(Thriving Kids) potentially has the opportunity to be a once-in-a-generation change in how we look at developmental paediatrics,” she told AAP.

She said what Mr Butler was doing was “pretty rare for a politician” because he was “owning what the problem is”.

Ensuring the program was in place before children were moved from the scheme was reassuring, People with Disability acting chief executive Megan Spindler-Smith told AAP.

The minister said while one-in-50 people had a significant disability which would be covered by the NDIS, one-in-five young children were on the autism spectrum or had a developmental delay.

Parents had little choice but to put their children with autism on a scheme designed for permanent disability, Mr Butler said.

“Families who were looking for additional supports in mainstream services can’t find them because they largely don’t exist anymore and in that, all governments have failed them,” he said.

Mr Butler said the changes would help to bring down the cost of the NDIS, with taxpayers set to fork out more than $52 billion for the scheme in 2025/26.

Laws passed in 2024 put in place a cap on spending growth of eight per cent per year.

But the minister said the existing level of growth was unsustainable and a cap of between five and six per cent would be more effective.

“After we achieve our current target, a further wave of reform will be needed to get growth down to a more sustainable position,” he said.

“There’s no significant change in disability prevalence in the community and the scheme is now fully rolled out. So growth should really

Advocates want certainty

Advocates want certainty on supports provided to children with autism under a major overhaul of the NDIS, as the minister overseeing the scheme tries to reassure parents about the changes.

Children with mild to moderate autism and those with developmental delays will be moved off the National Disability Insurance Scheme and into a separate $2 billion program called Thriving Kids.

It will begin rolling out from July 2026 and be fully implemented by July 2027.

The outer east’s Different Journeys joined Amaze, Aspergers Victoria, Yellow Ladybugs, and I Can on Thursday 21 August to release a statement to say that, as a collective, they would work with families and the State Government to deliver a “Victorian-friendly roll out”.

“We acknowledge autism is a whole-of-life experience in which support needs change. We recognise the role of families in supporting our autistic individuals to allow them to be the best they can,” the statement read.

“We understand the uncertainty and fear this announcement may have created and we will work together to ensure community is supported and understood.”

The organisations said they welcomed the opportunity to work with the government “to understand Minister Butler’s announcement”.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allen told reporters in Melbourne on Thursday her government was caught off guard about the changes.

“Like many states and territories, we heard about the proposed changes from the federal government when the minister made his address yesterday,” she said.

“There are many families, particularly many parents, today who have got many questions and I hope that the federal government can move quickly to answer the questions that families are asking.”

But Mr Butler said on Friday 22 August, that this shift had been discussed with States and Territories for two years.

The Victorian autism awareness and support organisations congratulated the State on its initiatives to improve and empower the autistic and autistic community.

“We support the extension of the State Disability Plan and Victorian Autism Plan, both until June 2027,” the statement read.

“We are proud of Victoria’s achievements with autistic children, including the State-wide roll out

Autism organisations and advocates have responded to the Federal Government’s overhaul of the NDIS. (Unsplash)

of the Disability Inclusion Reform in Victorian government schools, which has been positive for our families.”

The statement also cautioned the Federal Government in its approach to discussing autism.

“We can understand that there are opportunities from bringing health and disability together at a federal level.

“However, we would caution the Federal Government to avoid discussing autism in a medical model, given the gains by all jurisdictions to discuss autism in the social model of disability.”

Autism peak body Aspect says families must have confidence there will be continuity of support for children.

“Autism is a lifelong developmental condition and it’s vital that children and their families have access to the right supports early on so they can grow and thrive,” chief executive Jacqui Borland said.

Opposition health spokeswoman Anne Ruston wants more details on the changes.

“There are probably very many parents who will be distressed about the uncertainty that yesterday has created for them,” she told ABC Radio on Thursday.

“The thing that concerns me most is the lack of detail and the impact that’s likely to have on many parents, many families.”

Half of new entrants to the NDIS are children under nine, with the majority of them on the autism spectrum or having a developmental delay.

The new program has been welcomed from many child and family organisations, including The Front Project

Government investment in Thriving Kids represented a fundamental shift towards holistic care for children with mild autism or development delay, chief executive Caroline Croser-Barlow said.

“For too long, children with development delay or mild autism have had to wait for diagnosis to access supports that are too often in clinical settings,” she said.

reflect unit price inflation plus growth in Australia’s population.”

Autism peak body Aspect said families needed the right level of support.

“Given the number of autistic children we

support through our schools and

transition,” chief executive Jacqui Borland said.

Sweeping review calls for major childcare shake up

Childcare workers should be able to have their clearances pulled based on unproven allegations, a snap review has found.

The sweeping review of Victoria’s childcare sector, led by former South Australian premier Jay Weatherill and veteran public servant Pamela White, was released on Wednesday 20 August.

Chief among its 22 recommendations was for working with children checks to be overhauled so they can be suspended or refused when there are “credible allegations or patterns of behaviour” with children.

The review was set up in early-July after authorities lifted the lid on Melbourne childcare worker Joshua Dale Brown being charged with more than 70 sexual abuse offences.

He had a valid working with children check.

The review said the state’s permit regime, along with the reportable conduct scheme, should no longer sit within the separate entities of the Department of Government Services and Commission for Children and Young People.

The systems should be brought together under the same roof of the social services regulator as the trail of information that can identify a predator’s behaviour sits in “too many places”.

Limitations on the commission’s ability to share information on unsubstantiated allegations must also be removed, the review said.

“The review heard repeatedly about the ‘breadcrumbs’ that can be missed by the failure to piece information together,” the 103-page document reads.

The changes to the schemes should be implemented in concert with harsher penalties to match the seriousness of breaches, as well as more frequent unannounced compliance visits.

“No matter how hard we try to keep predators out, some will get through,” the review said.

“The system needs to be able to spot them and act quickly.”

However, the review stopped short of calling for mandatory CCTV in all childcare state facilities and instead recommended a national trial.

A national review should also be set up to consider introducing a “four eyes” rule of two adults visible to each other while with children and a federal funding program to improve sight lines in centres.

Long day care services in Victoria have grown from 1280 to 2049 since 2015.

A parent told the review families’ distress stemmed from childcare being a necessity rather than a lifestyle choice.

“We live in a society and an economy now where it is very rare for a household to stay afloat on one income,” they said.

The review found the sector has undergone rapid growth over the past decade without a “coherent plan”.

Long day care services in Victoria have grown from 1280 to 2049 since 2015, with 94 per cent of new centres for-profit providers.

At the same time, the sector is facing significant workforce challenges from shortages, casualisation and high turnover rates.

The review called for a national Early Childhood Reform Commission to be established to support a “fundamental reset” of the sector.

“Removing bad actors from the system cannot wait for this longer-term work to occur,” the 103-page document read.

“There is no silver bullet.”

The Victorian government will release its formal response later on Wednesday but previously committed to enact all recommendations.

Many of the recommendations are directed at the federal government, with the state urged to share the review with the Commonwealth and other jurisdictions as soon as possible.

Federal, state and territory education ministers are due to meet on Friday.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028

therapy programs, families must have confidence there will be continuity of supports, real choice and control, and no gaps during the
The federal government believes the NDIS is not the right fit for children on the autism spectrum. (File)
(Shutterstock)

Race bid off to VCAT

The Yarra Ranges Council has rejected over 40 years of evidence from the farm of world champion motorbike racer Daniel “Chucky” Sanders, after the family attempted to apply for existing use rights to hold commercial motorbike races.

The rejection has prompted the Sanders family to escalate the matter to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) to challenge the development and secure the farm’s right to continue its motorbiking legacy.

It came after the council banned commercial motorbike races on the farm due to the property being zoned for agricultural use, though domestic use of motorcycle riding wasn’t restricted.

Yarra Ranges mayor Cr Jim Child said in a statement the types of evidence provided weren’t varied enough and therefore didn’t meet the criteria for existing use rights.

“While the landowner has been able to supply some information to Council, this information has predominately been video and testimonial evidence in the form of statutory declarations.

“While it does appear that commercial motorcycle events have occurred on the land in some form and over some years, the documentation provided to date was not of a sufficient standard to satisfy the assessment requirements under Clause 63 of the planning scheme and the Planning and Environment Act 1987,” Cr Child said.

Home to the Dakar Rally winning, 16-time Enduro World champion Mr Sanders, the Sanders Apple Farm was established in 1976 and has hosted motorbike races since 1982.

A cornerstone of the motorbiking community,

Mr Sanders said the farm has shaped his career and provided a safe place for thousands of locals to ride.

“For 40-plus years our family property in Three Bridges has been home to motorbike races, junior coaching, ride days, fundraisers and trail rides.

“A safe, legal place for locals to ride and one of the last private spots left in Australia for events like this,” Mr Sanders said.

By holding commercial motorbiking events, the Sanders Apple Farm Track has also helped bolster the family’s business and bring in money to the local economy.

Cr Child said the property had never submitted a planning application to host a commercial motorcycle business.

“Throughout the assessment for the existing use rights request, council had several discussions with the owner on the type and variety of evidence required to support the application.

“This evidence can include a range of documents such as, records, leases, insurances, receipts, photographic and testimonial evidence,” Cr Child said.

But, the Sanders family will appeal the decision in VCAT as it allows for a wider range of evidence.

In VCAT, evidence such as testimonials are allowed as these can be cross-examined to ensure its authenticity.

Federal Casey MP Aaron Violi expressed his support for the Sanders Apple Farm in a comment on Facebook.

“Hi Daniel, I’m so sorry to hear about this decision. This will undoubtedly have a huge impact on not only your family but our wider Yarra Ranges community.

“As our federal MP, local council and state planning decisions are not something I have jurisdiction over, however, you have my support and I will be raising this with the council today,” Mr Violi said.

Mr Sanders said the decision was a shock to the community.

“A lot of kids ride there, and we have a lot of events there. We try to give back to the community.”

“It’s everything, if I didn’t have that farm… there’s no way I’d be where I am today.”

Alleged teen home invader granted bail

A man allegedly involved in an aggravated home invasion in May this year may be back working on a Yarra Ranges orchard following a successful bail application to the Supreme Court of Victoria.

David Nagy, who is also facing charges for car theft, possessing an unregistered longarm and handgun, possessing cannabis and possessing cartridge ammunition while unlicensed, was arrested at an Endeavour Hills address on 23 May and has been in custody since, having first been denied bail by the Magistrates’ Court.

Justice James Gorton had to decide whether there were exceptional circumstances that justified bail as aggravated home invasion is a schedule one offence, and whether there was any unacceptable risk to granting Mr Nagy bail.

Mr Nagy was 18 at the time of the alleged offending, has struggled with untreated mental health and substance issues and other than an assault on another student while at school in 2022, for which he completed a diversion order, has no criminal history. He is supported by his parents, having been working and still having the opportunity to work with his mother fulltime at the orchard, while he was also set to start an electrical pre-apprenticeship before he was remanded.

Mr Nagy’s mother said under oath that the applicant would live with her, work with her and respect the curfew if bail was granted, and that she would let the informant know if any bail con-

ditions were breached.

Mr Nagy had made admissions to a covert police operative while in a holding cell that he and others had been paid to invade the home and hold a gun to the man’s head to scare him, but claimed he was ‘big-noting’ himself during this conversation.

Justice Gorton also noted that CCTV footage and conflicting messages sent on social media by the applicant open up the possibility that the applicant was not at the home invasion, but was closely connected, and there is also a possibility the applicant may even face a youth justice centre order that will prevent him from being imprisoned in an adult facility.

Evidence also pointed to Mr Nagy having been assaulted while on remand, potentially ‘on

a couple of occasions’, and a Youth Justice report also assessed him to be suitable for a supervised bail program. Justice Gorton agreed, leading him to consider whether the risks.

The key risk is whether the applicant would potentially engage in gun-related violence, based on the unrecovered handgun he took pictures of himself with and his knowledge of people with access to weapons, as well as messages sent about owning a gun: ‘Shush bro I own a gun now’; ‘Don’t make me use it n—a’; ‘Nah joking’; and ‘But I swear I could say that to anyone now.’

Justice Gorton decided the ‘ill-advised’ messages were sent with ‘a joking bravado’ rather than any intention to use the weapon and set the following conditions for bail:

Mr Nagy must reside at his parents’ house and abide by a curfew of 9pm or 10pm to 6am each day, unless in the company of at least one parent and be prepared to present at the residence if requested by police.

Mr Nagy must not associate with any of his co-accused, communicate with any witnesses other than the informant for the case and not attend the address of the alleged victims.

Mr Nagy must comply with the directions, treatments and referral programs of Youth Justice, as well as enrol in his electrical pre-apprenticeship or otherwise work full-time with his mother if not engaged in the course or other treatment.

Mr Nagy’s bail was granted on the above conditions.

IN BRIEF

E-bike theft in Wesburn

Yarra Ranges Crimes Investigation Unit (CIU) is appealing for information after four e-bikes were stolen from Wesburn on 12 August.

The models of the e-bikes were a Norco Sight, Specialised Levo 3, and two Black Merinda E160700s.

Anyone with information about the burglary and theft is asked to contact Yarra Ranges CIU on (03) 97392401.

Ref No: 250338271

Popular yoghurt product recalled

The popular range of Cocobella yoghurts have been recalled due to the presence of milk, an undeclared allergen.

The date markings for the recalled products are:

• Cocobella Banana Coconut Yoghurt Pouch 110g - 12/09/2025 and 13/09/2025.

• Cocobella Mango Coconut Yoghurt Pouch 110g - 13/09/2025.

• Cocobella Strawberry Coconut Yoghurt Pouch 110g - 12/09/2025.

The products have been available for sale in Woolworths in NSW, ACT, VIC, SA, QLD, NT and online.

The products have also been sold at independent retailers including IGA in QLD and VIC.

Any consumers who have a milk allergy or intolerance may have a reaction if the product is consumed.

Consumers should return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund. Any consumers concerned about their health should seek medical advice.

For more information, contact Cocobella at consumer@cocobella.com.au or call 1300 020 223.

Crime syndicate dismantled

A burglary at a Yarra Ranges electronic store has led to the dismantlement of an alleged syndicate responsible for dozens of commercial burglaries across Melbourne.

Two offenders were arrested on Wednesday evening after they allegedly stole a Toyota RAV4 from a Mont Albert address in the early hours of the morning using a key reprogramming device.

The vehicle was then allegedly used to steal items from an electronic store on Maroondah Highway in Chirnside Park.

The RAV4 was later tracked to a Bundoora address, when the driver allegedly collided with an unmarked police vehicle before being arrested.

Searches of the vehicle uncovered approximately 80 items believed to be allegedly stolen from the electronic store earlier that day, as well as $5000 in cash.

A 36-year-old Whittlesea man and a 32-yearold Bundoora man have both been charged with multiple offences.

Detectives are continuing to investigate.

Anyone with information about criminal syndicates is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersvic.com.au

Information appeal for wanted man

Leslie Scott McMaster is wanted on Warrants.

Police are seeking the whereabouts of 42-yearold Leslie McMaster who is wanted on warrants relating to theft, driving, deception and weapon offences after failing to appear at the Ringwood Magistrates Court.

McMaster is known to frequent the Healesville area.

Anypersonwithinformationaboutthelocation of McMaster is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or make a report via crimestoppersvic.com.au

The Sanders Apple Farm has hosted motorbike races since 198. (Marcelo Maragni/Red Bull Content Pool)
The Supreme Court of Victoria has granted bail to a young man allegedly involved in a home invasion. (File)

Greyhound ban would save

A policy costing from the Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO) has estimated that the Victorian government could save as much as $451.6 million over a decade if it chose to immediately ban greyhound racing.

Requested by Animal Justice Party MP George Purcell, the costing was released in the timely wake of the Tasmanian government’s decision to phase out greyhound racing by 2029.

General Manager of the Healesville Greyhound Association Peter Frost said they employ around 20 staff, with the majority based in the Yarra Ranges and generate just under $500,000 per annum in wages.

“Last financial year, Healesville alone held 134 race meetings over 10,000 industry participants attending the track annually, it’s fair to say that local businesses benefit from their attendance into our local LGA, many travel as far as Horsham, Bendigo, Shepparton and as far south as Seaspray,”

“On top of this, the club hold around 90 Trial sessions per annum where trainers across Victoria and other states come to Trial their dogs during the week,”

“Healesville Greyhounds are committed to supporting the local community and have several groups who utilise our facilities, consisting of local aged care groups, sporting clubs and the RSL to name a few.”

Healesville Greyhound’s ‘The Shed’ has also held several music events and functions with free room hire, with ticket sales going to the acts, and recently raised over $31,000 at their ‘Big Freeze at the Ville’ event in June.

Mr Frost said that as Healesville is a straight track, it is the safest track in Victoria which is something they pride themselves on.

“Greyhound racing is thriving in Victoria and across Australasia because we invest millions of dollars and countless hours into animal welfare, integrity, and rehoming,” he said.

“Retired greyhounds are becoming the pet of choice for thousands of Australians, proof that our industry’s commitment produces results,”

“I welcome anyone to spend a day in my shoes to get a clearer understanding of Greyhound racing from the inside, not of what you read.”

According to the Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds (CPG), there have been no deaths but 20 serious injuries (stand down period of 60 days or more) at Healesville in 2025. In 2024, there was a total of three deaths, all as a result of leg fractures either on the track or in the catching pen. According to Greyhound Racing Victoria (GRV)’s latest annual report for 2023/24, 415 greyhounds were euthanised and 204 died due to illness, injury or natural causes around the state.

CPG president Amy MacMahon said Tasmania’s move should be a trigger to the rest of the country to follow suit, with both Tasmania and New Zealand having cited animal welfare concerns and the failure to meet community expectations in their moves to close down the industry.

“More people are becoming aware of the suffering of greyhounds in the racing industry, despite the industry’s best efforts to censor race footage, Australians love their dogs and don’t want to see them dying and maimed for the gam-

bling business,” she said.

“Tasmania also shows how a phase-out should happen, giving racing participants enough time to find homes for their dogs and transition to other employment,”

“The phase-out process could hold some dangers for greyhounds, both Tasmania and New Zealand have introduced legislation to ensure that dogs aren’t euthanased by owners and trainers.”

74 per cent of a survey of 503 Tasmanians by Enterprise Marketing and Research Services supported the move to phase out greyhound racing, with 14 per cent opposed and 12 per cent undecided.

Greyhound Racing Victoria chief executive officer Stuart Laing said the supplier network involved in greyhound racing is not just limited to trainers, breeders, kennel attendants and race club staff – it also reaches veterinarians and transport companies, feed merchants, sand and soil suppliers, the construction and IT industries and equipment manufacturers.

“What the PBO costing doesn’t include are the direct income taxes on those who are employed within in greyhound racing, the payroll

and corporate income taxes levied and net GST generated by businesses operating in greyhound racing, and other taxes and levies such as fringe benefits tax, land tax and other taxes generated from participants who spend money in their involvement in greyhound racing,” he said.

“While the PBO costings focus on the portion of the point of consumption tax on wagering that is passed through to the Victorian Racing Industry from the state government, it should be pointed out this is a tax paid by Australian wagering companies based on their wagering revenue generated in Victoria.”

The PBO’s costing found that operating expenses of $687.4 million would be saved over the next decade if greyhound racing was banned immediately, which would be offset by a decrease of $235.8 million due to the loss of point of consumption tax (POCT) revenue. The PBO did not consider potential changes in spending behaviour (such as betting shifted to other sports) or factor in potential financial claims against the Victorian government that could possibly be made for breaking existing agreements to enforce any potential ban.

Ms MacMahon said we know that state and

territory governments around the country are spending millions of public dollars on greyhound racing every year.

“The recent Tasmanian election demonstrated the overwhelming community opposition to the taxpayer funding of greyhound racing. Under a 20-year funding deed, the Tasmanian government gave $74.6 million to the greyhound racing industry over the last 15 years,” she said.

“The Victoria PBO costings factor in greyhound racing’s share of a similar deed established by the Victorian government last year, the combined greyhound and horse racing deed will cost the Victorian taxpayer $2 billion over 10 years, that’s in addition to the 50 per cent of wagering tax gifted to the industry, this is all money that should be spent on things that Victorians actually need, like community infrastructure, housing and healthcare,”

“Greyhound racing is effectively propped up by public funding, GRV needed a $3m taxpayer loan in the 2024 financial year to meet its immediate commitments, and as pointed out by the leading economist Saul Eslake in Tasmania, the government is just throwing good money after bad.”

Victoria’s government is being urged to follow Tasmania’s lead and phase out greyhound racing. (Dean Lewins/AAP)

Vietnam sacrifice honoured

The sun prevailed for the Vietnam Veterans Outer Eastern Melbourne (VVOEM) Vietnam Veterans’ Day Service on Sunday 17 August which saw veterans and their families gather to pay their respects at the Upper Yarra RSL.

The service was held the day before Vietnam Veterans’ Day, which marked the 59th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan on 18 August.

The service was attended by many notable figures which included RSL Victoria president Mark Schroffel, Yarra Ranges Council mayor Cr Jim Child, Federal Casey MP Aaron Violi, State MP Cindy McLeish, among others.

Upper Yarra RSL committee member Chris Leermaker said the service ran smoothly.

“It all went pretty well, the sun was shining and we had a good march and a good service afterwards,” Mr Leermaker said.

It was the Upper Yarra RSL’s first time hosting the Vietnam Veterans Day, where the parade started at the Upper Yarra Museum and finished at the Yarra Junction Cenotaph via the Warburton Railtrail.

Warburton RSL president Wayne Morgan was parade commander for the event and said the march was a success, despite having to change its original course due to junior football finals.

“It’s just rewarding being involved with the older veterans, it’s lovely,” Mr Morgan said.

Mr Violi spoke during the ceremony and reflected on the significance of the anniversary.

“It was moving to see our community gather to honour the 60,000 brave Australians who met the call to serve in Vietnam, while also marking the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, which will always be remembered as one of the fiercest battles of the war.

“Thank you to our local RSLs, the Yarra Valley Vietnam Veterans Day Committee and Vietnam Veterans Outer Eastern Melbourne for hosting this moving service and march,” Mr Violi said.

Mr Leermaker said the service offered a chance for return service members to reconnect and remember.

“One of my mates came down from Geelong and he stayed overnight on Sunday night and I was with him over in Vietnam,” Mr Leermaker said.

Mr Leermaker said the service also meant veterans could meet new veterans they hadn’t met who served alongside them in Vietnam.

“It’s good because you meet up with…[members] from all different intakes,” Mr Leermaker said.

Also in attendance was the 1st Woori Yallock Scout Group and the Australian Air Force Cadets 408 Squadron performed the Cataflaque Party mounts.

For the entire conflict, 60,000 Australian

troops served, 3000 were injured and over 520 lost their lives.

The Battle of Long Tan took place in 1966 where a small Australian contingent faced a 2000 person-strong Viet Cong force.

Heavily outnumbered and running low on

supplies, the Australian troops successfully repelled the attack, though 17 Australian soldiers were killed and another 25 wounded.

Mr Morgan said the ceremony was his way of acknowledging his uncle’s role in Vietnam.

“My uncle was a Vietnam vet himself and I

know what it meant to him and the emotional turmoil that he struggled with post-Vietnam War.

“But even though he’s no longer here, it’s just my little bit to give back to him and all the other veterans,” Mr Morgan said.

Yarra Ranges emergency services strengthen their bonds

A collaboration between the Upper Yarra SES and the Wandin CFA saw crucial skills shared and emergency service relations bolstered.

Wandin CFA shared its expertise on high-angle rescues with the Upper Yarra SES to allow for a higher level of cooperation during rescue callouts.

Upper Yarra SES unit controller Hannah Brunton said it was important to have a basic understanding of high-angle rescues due to a number of factors.

“They [Wandin CFA] are one of our closest high-angle rescue providers, so if we have somebody within our response area that requires a high-angle rescue, it’s them that will come in,” Ms Brunton said.

“We have worked alongside them at quite a lot of jobs so this training session is really about making sure that all of our members understand when we call them, why we call them and how we call them.”

Alongside Monbulk CFA, Wandin CFA are a part of the District 13 Rope Rescue Team, whose members are trained in to perform steep and high-angle rescues.

A high-angle rescue is when a responder has to access a patient who’s on a vertical or slippery slope above a 45 degree angle.

Wandin CFA captain Darryn Gross said these types of rescues were crucial for the safety of both the patient and responder.

“It’s extremely important for both the re-

sponder as well as the patient for safety. At the end of the day we all are entitled to go home to our loved ones and make sure that we can access a patient on a vertical or slippery slope anywhere from generally 45 degrees upwards.”

Ms Brunton said the newly opened Warburton Bike Park has a lot of steep and hilly terrain where a rider may require a high-angle rescue and therefore it was essential Upper Yarra SES members have the knowledge on when these rescues will need to be deployed.

“Because of the bike tracks, there’s a lot of drop-off points that we may have to respond to with [high-angle rescues], so that’s why we want to do that familiarisation training.”

While Upper Yarra SES members weren’t

trained to perform the rescues themselves, the training exercise would equip them with the information to know when these rescues would be performed.

Mr Gross said training alongside other emergency services was critical as collaboration meant better outcomes for those being rescued.

“Interagency training is absolutely critical in all scenarios, be it health, be it fire, flood, road crash rescue or patient outcomes.

“We need to understand that each emergency service in their own right has a skill. By appreciating what we can do to help another agency… and the capabilities [of that] alternate agency, it makes both you as an emergency service responder better as well as the patient outcomes better,” Mr Gross said.

It would also provide a good chance to socialise with other emergency service volunteers.

“We see each other at emergency jobs, we pass each other in the streets, we go to shopping centers and we pass each other - it’s good to be able to just have that social interaction,” Mr Gross said.

Ms Brunton said interacting with the CFA in an informal setting gave them the chance to connect more as mates.

“It was good to be able to see them in not a life or death circumstance.

“We see them at jobs, we know their faces, but we don’t really get a chance to get to know them… So being able to see them in a less formal environment where we’re… able to have less stressful conversations and some friendliness, it’s much nicer,” Ms Brunton said.

In the end, these emergency service responders are all volunteers who give up their spare time to ensure the protection of the public.

Collaborative training sessions like these ensure these emergency service volunteers have the ability to rely on each other when they need it.

“The area that we have is so mountainous, and there’s so many drops, so there’s a lot of times and opportunities where we’re going to need them,” Ms Brunton said.

“It’s good to be able to work together.”

Federal Casey MP Aaron Violi spoke at the service. (Supplied)
Wandin CFA shared its expertise on high-angle rescues with the Upper Yarra SES. (Upper Yarra SES)
The exercise helped SES volunteers to familiarise themselves with the manoeuvre. (Upper Yarra SES)

Invest in health infrastructure call

A new report by Infrastructure Victoria has found that investment in community health organisations could play a pivotal role in saving government funds and relieving pressure on hospitals.

Chief executive Dr Jonathan Spear said community health organisations are there for vulnerable Victorians, keeping them well and out of hospital for longer.

“For people who cannot otherwise access affordable healthcare, community health organisations provide a single entry-point into the broader healthcare and social support system,” he said.

“By 2036, organisations in growth areas will have to cater for more than double the number of people living there now, wait times are likely to increase even further without investment in the infrastructure needed to support additional community health services,”

“We recommend the Victorian Government increase annual funding from $5.2 million to between $30 million and $60 million – just 1.5 per cent to 3 per cent of the $2 billion the government spends on average each year on health infrastructure.”

Infrastructure Victoria also advised that funding could be sought from the Australian Government, due to the provision of Commonwealth-funded programs like primary care, NDIS, home care and aged care services which are often offered at community health organisations.

A Victorian Government spokesperson said community health organisations have an important role in the healthcare system by delivering a range of state and federally funded health services - which is why they invested $188 million in community health in the last year alone.

“Grant programs like our Regional Health Infrastructure Fund and the Metropolitan Health Infrastructure Fund are also supporting community health services across the state to provide the very best care with funding to upgrade facilities and medical equipment,” they said.

“We will carefully review the recommendations in this report and continue to work with community health services to understand how best to support them and their vital work.”

The Star Mail reached out to the providers of community health services in the Outer East for their thoughts on the report and what needs to be addressed most at their facilities.

Chief executive officer of Access Health and Community, which merged with Inspiro Health on 1 May 2025, Anna Robinson said they would strongly welcome an increase in community health infrastructure funding.

“As a community health provider in the Yarra Ranges and Inner East, we provide free or lowcost health care for the most vulnerable mem-

bers of our community, and support people with complex needs to stay well and out of hospital,” she said.

“Our Lilydale facility at 17 Clarke Street has had some upgrades to parts of the building, however, more work is needed to allow us to deliver the services that the community needs,”

“Currently, we’re limited in what we can to deliver; further funding would reduce the need to deliver services off-site and would potentially allow us to expand our services onsite and beyond our existing locations at Lilydale and Belgrave.”

Access Health and Community are now responsible for community health services in the Yarra Ranges, Yarra, Manningham and Booroondara areas. Eastern Health’s Healesville facility is the other provider of community health services in the Yarra Ranges, while they also have a facility in Ringwood East.

EACH is responsible for two community health services in Maroondah (Ringwood East) and Knox (Ferntree Gully), and podiatrist at the Ringwood East facility Tracy Tibballs said she thinks it would make a huge difference to how they deliver services.

“Community health here in Victoria is a really integral part of the health system and as you can appreciate with the current cost of living increases, many people are finding it really hard to afford health care and community health receives state and federal funding so we can provide quality but subsidised services to these individuals where they probably can’t get that anywhere else,” she said.

“It would give us the opportunity to upgrade our services, we’d increase our space, so we would have more clinical spaces to provide more services, really we’re at capacity at the moment here at Ringwood,”

“I work in podiatry, and I know in the podiatry and physiotherapy space, we have six-month waiting lists and if we had an investment in our infrastructure, we could add another clinic room to be able to see more people.”

Monash Health, which is responsible for community health services in Cardinia, was also contacted for comment.

Ms Robinson said the research found that community health could help more people, but in many cases, our organisations have to operate out of old or not fit-for-purpose buildings that don’t meet our clients’ needs.

“It’s particularly difficult for Yarra Ranges residents to access services, compared to those in metropolitan areas, due to more limited infrastructure and services, and difficulties with travel from regional locations.” she said.

“An increased investment in community health infrastructure could mean more investment in the Yarra Ranges region, to help connect

Minister visits Emerald Library for grant opening

Emerald Library hosted a special event to announce the opening of the 2025–26 Living Libraries Infrastructure Program funding round on Wednesday 20 August.

A few familiar names and special guests also attended the event, including Local Government Mmminister Nick Staikos, alongside local leaders, such as Monbulk Member Daniela De Martino MP, Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Jack Kowarzik, and Public Libraries Victoria Ambassador Andrea Rowe.

people to the services they need to stay healthy, our services in Lilydale and Belgrave are deeply embedded in the Yarra Ranges community, and we provide a wide range of high-quality, integrated services to meet a range of needs,”

“Access Health and Community and Inspiro’s community health services are a one-stop shop for everyone, with services ranging from allied health and dental care, to mental health and alcohol and other drug support, our teams work together to provide tailored care and support for each client.”

Infrastructure Victoria’s three recommendations were for the government to conduct an asset assessment of all community health facilities, consult community health organisations on long-term infrastructure planning (establishing priorities along the way) and invest in facilities in the next five years.

Ms Tibballs said being able to receive a service similar to what they would get in the outpatient setting is really important for people.

“With our current allied health services, our podiatry and physiotherapy services work closely with Eastern Health to provide additional services to reduce the demand on their outpatient services,” she said.

“Our physiotherapy team here provide treatment to customers who are on the waiting list for hip and knee replacements and the evidence has shown that regular physiotherapy can actually reduce the need for hip or knee replacements or it can improve their clinical outcomes as well,”

“In podiatry, with our clients who are seeing vascular and their high-risk foot clinics, we actually provide a service that we will see them in between their appointments, reducing their need to go into the hospital, and sometimes our regular care can reduce the need for an operation or an amputation.”

The Victorian Healthcare Association and Community Health First are among others to have come out in support of the report, but it is not only infrastructure posing a problem for community health.

Ms Robinson said while infrastructure funding is a critical enabler of community health, investment needs to be matched with an increase in operational funding to make sure that the services we deliver at the facilities are funded.

“While we welcome an increase in infrastructure funding, it is unacceptable that there has been no substantial increase to Community Health funding beyond indexation for over 20 years, despite population growth and increasing community needs,” she said.

“We need to see an increase in investment for infrastructure and services, to support vulnerable people from the Yarra Ranges to manage their care in the community and keep them out of hospital for longer.”

The event, which started around 2pm, showcased how the State Government is continuing its commitment to enhancing library spaces for the communities that rely on them.

Following Mr Staikos’ remarks, attendees were given a tour of Emerald Library, which highlighted the recent upgrades funded by the Victorian Government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program.

These included an expanded children’s area, a new purpose-built study room, and additional lounge spaces for the community.

Myli interim chief executive officer Bernadette Kennedy spoke about the role libraries play in local communities, emphasising their importance as spaces for connection and learning.

“At Myli, our libraries are at the heart of our local communities. They are welcoming spaces where people can explore new ideas and access resources that enrich everyday life,” she said.

The Living Libraries Infrastructure Program offers councils and regional library corporations the opportunity to apply for grants ranging from $10,000 to $1 million to support library upgrades, refurbishments, and new facilities.

Applications for the 2025–26 funding round are now open and will close on 19 September.

Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino said libraries are much more than just places to borrow books.

“They contribute to the connections that strengthen and enrich Victorian communities and support a culture that values reading, learning, and social connection,” she said.

Public Libraries Victoria Ambassador Andrea Rowe expressed her excitement about the timing of the announcement, coinciding with Children’s Book Week.

“There’s no better time than Children’s Book Week to work towards creating inspiring spaces to produce the next generation of authors,” she said.

The Living Libraries Infrastructure Program is part of the Allan Labor Government’s broader effort to invest in library infrastructure across the state, with over 150 projects planned and a combined total project cost of nearly $400 million. For more information about the program or to apply, visit localgovernment.vic.gov.au/grants

Community health infrastructure has been singled out by Infrastructure Victoria for more investment.
(Towfiqu Barbhuiya/Unsplash)
L-R: Nick Staikos MP, Public Libraries Victoria Ambassador Andrea Rowe, Daniela De Martino MP, and Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Jack Kowarzik. (Supplied)
L-R: Emerald Library manager Siobhan Steele with Andrea Rowe, Public Libraries Victoria Ambassador and author. (Supplied)

Securing future honeyeater habitats

The combined effort of volunteers and students saw 1100 shrubs, grasses and gums planted in Yellingbo to restore habitat for the critically endangered helmeted honeyeater.

Led by the Friends of the Helmeted Honeyeater (FoHH) group, 30 people from a technology firm and a homeschooling group descended upon the Burrungma Biik site in the Yellingbo Nature Conservation Area on 14 August.

FoHH volunteer Virginia Wallace said it was great to have support from the Richmond-based tech firm HERE Technologies and the local homeschool group to contribute to the planting day.

“It was really great to bring the two groups together and that they got to participate in this group activity out in nature,” Ms Wallace said.

Under the warm winter sun, the planting crew got to work right away and helped restore the Burrungma Biik’s habitat to what it would’ve been before it was converted to farmland.

Ms Wallace said the crew revegetated the site in a way that’d help facilitate the local helemeted honeyeater and Leadbeater possum populations.

“The idea is to plant it close together because the habitat would have originally been like that.

“That’s something that the birds and also the

lowland Leadbeaters possum like, is that habitat that’s very close together so they can move effectively through it,” Ms Wallace said.

A Yarra Ranges Council grant covered the cost for the 1100 plants, which would’ve been priced at roughly $3000.

“Were very grateful for the support of the Yarra Ranges Council because their grant actually funded all the plants.”

HERE Technologies also made a donation to FoHH which would help fund operation costs at the Indigenous Plant Nursery.

Burrungma Biik means “misty lands” in the Woiwurrung language and the name was given to the site by Wurrundjeri Elder Aunty Gail Smith.

The 2.3-hectare site was added to the Yellingbo Nature Conservation Area through the combined efforts of Trust for Nature, FoHH and the Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority (which have since integrated into Melbourne Water) in 2017.

Though the sunshine was welcomed on the day, Ms Virginia said the lack of rain this winter meant the conditions weren’t the best for planting.

“It has been difficult to do plantings this season because it’s been so historically dry.

“Even though we’re coming towards the end of

winter, the water levels are still at summer levels.”

Those who are interested in volunteering at the Friends of the Helmeted Honeyeater group can inquire here: helmetedhoneyeater.org.au/ volunteer-query-form/

Ms Wallace said the planting day was a chance for socialisation and connection for the two groups.

“It’s really the main purpose of our group, which is to expand habitat for the helmeted honeyeater and other species that occupy the Yellingbo Nature Conservation Area, but also to engage with people and bring them along in that journey.”

Groups are teaming up to ease food woes

Community Bank Wandin-Seville is collecting food for Foodbank Victoria’s VIC Metro’s Winter Food Drive to provide food for those doing it tough. It came after Bendigo Bank partnered with Foodbank Victoria to help alleviate the growing demand on its supplies as food insecurity grows with the cost of living.

Community Bank Wandin-Seville executive officer Leah Thompson said the branch was receiving donations from the public.

“We have two food bank boxes in the branch that are filling up which is great to see,” she said.

The Vic Metro’s Winter Food Drive lasts the entirety of August and people are urged to donate what they can.

Foodbank is the largest hunger relief charity in Australia that links surplus food and groceries to

people in need, which was established in 1930 to support Victorians through the Great Depression.

It provides food and grocery relief to just under 3000 frontline charities and 3220 school breakfast programs to help feed people in need.

In the last 12 months, 3.4 million households in Australia struggled to put food on their table

Last year alone, Foodbank sourced enough food for 92 million meals.

It currently is looking specifically for eight staple items that are most in demand: tuna, sauce, pasta, rice, cereal, UHT milk, canned fruit and canned vegetables.

Alongside Community Bank Wandin-Seville, the Warburton-Yarra Junction branch and Woori Yallock-Yellingbo branch are also taking part.

Ms Thompson said the collective action from all of the community banks would make a big impact.

“All of the Bendigo bank branches are collect-

ing donations for the month of August so together there should be an opportunity for a meaningful donation to help make a difference,” she said.

The Vic Metro’s Winter Food Drive ends on 29 August.

“There’s still some time left to donate,” Ms Thompson said.

BCDMS members are inviting community members to their Open Day event. (Dongyun Kwon: 497725)

Men’s Shed plan open day

A local men’s shed is inviting community members to join its Open Day event.

Badger Creek and District Men’s Shed (BCDMS) will open its door on Wednesday 10 September, during Men’s Shed Week.

Secretary Graeme Chester said becoming a member of a men’s shed provides a safe and busy environment where men can find ways to be productive, contribute to the community, connect with friends and maintain an active body and mind.

“There is no pressure. Men can just come and have a yarn and a cuppa if that is all they are looking for,” he said.

“Men’s shed’s members come from all walks of life, have some time on their hands and like to do something meaningful with that time, including having a chat over a cuppa with new mates.

“The men’s shed movement has become a powerful tool in addressing the health and well-being of its members and creating opportunities for men to contribute to their local communities.”

The men’s shed movement originated in Australia in the ‘90s and has grown to encompass more than 2500 sheds in 12 countries.

In Australia, there are more than 1200 sheds with over 50,000 members.

In the Healesville area, the BCDMS started in 2014 and is located at 360 Badger Creek Road, Badger Creek behind the Badger Creek CFA. Mr Chester said the BCDMS fosters a safe and happy environment where men can work on personal, community, or shed-specific projects in the wood and metal workshops.

“Some of the BCDMS members are interested in photography, and they meet weekly for discussions or excursions,” the secretary said.

“Community projects undertaken by the shed include restoring the Willy Jeep for the Healesville RSL, making bird nesting boxes for distribution in bushfire and storm affected forests, mentoring Cubs in making bird nesting boxes to achieve their environment badge, mentoring students from Badger Creek Primary School in making small projects to assist their tactile learning and conducting Technology4Seniors course to assist older community members in the use of their digital devices.

“We also maintain the grounds for the Badger Creek CFA and Badger Creek Hall.”

The men’s shed is not only for retired men.

It is also open to the younger generation, where they can gain hands-on experience in carpentry and metalwork, and chat with experts in the field who can advise them on the steps to becoming a professional carpenter or metalworker.

“We’ve discovered that when young people come, they are not sure which direction they want to go. It might be wood carpentry, cabinet making, all the stuff that you can do as a builder or in metal work,” president Greg Suhr said.

“Right here, they have the experience of older men that have already done all that, and they can tell them the steps to go through.

“Kai Goodman was with us for a couple of years. His family discovered that he loved woodwork, and he’s now got an apprenticeship to do carpentry.”

This year Men’s Shed Week will be held from Monday 8 September to Saturday 13 September under the theme ‘Building Healthy Communities’.

As part of Men’s Shed Week, the BCDMS will hold Open Day from 10am to 2pm on Wednesday 10 September.

“Everyone is welcome to visit the shed at 360 Badger Creek Road, Badger Creek and have a chat and cuppa over lunch,” the secretary said.

People with any enquiries about the Open Day are encouraged to contact Mr Chester by phone on 0412 165 420.

The planting crew were keen to support the helmeted honeyeater population. (Supplied)
A local homeschooling group got involved in the planting effort. (Supplied)
Foodbank Victoria’s Vic Metro Food Drive ends 29 August. (Unsplash)

FIRE RESILIENT COMMUNITIES

Fire is a tool for resilience

FIRE RESILIENT COMMUNITIES

TYPES OF BURNS

While the bursts of yellow wattle through the canopy signal the steady awakening of a dormant landscape, the Yarra Ranges community has been alive with action, working throughout the colder months to prepare for fire season.

With a history that is so deeply intertwined with fire, the management of one of Australia’s most crucial elements must be handled with the utmost care.

Managing Victoria’s landscape requires heavy handed and regular intervention. From fuel reduction to the facilitation of biodiversity, fire and planned burning play crucial roles in the management and protection of Victoria’s landscapes.

From managing the landscape with slashers and choppers, to the incorporation of cultural fire practices, here is a guide to the many initiatives that take place in the Yarra Ranges to combat the threat of bushfires and to promote the health of the land.

CULTURAL BURNS

“WhenAboriginalpeoplecaredforthelandscapes, they built in natural bushfire mitigation.”

“There’s no recorded evidence of a major bushfire over the last 6000 years before colonisation. None that we are aware of anyway.”

Yarra Ranges Council Indigenous development coordinator Garry Detez squinted against a tendril of smoke that had temporarily drifted into his face. He paused, waiting for it to drift away and then continued talking.

“On the back of the Black Saturday fires, the council was looking at better ways to build natural mitigation into the landscape, to provide healing but also to build resilience into communities as well,” Mr Detez said.

“We came across the ancient Aboriginal practice of cultural burning and it’s been a long journey, probably about nine or 10 years but we are implementing it now.”

For the past 60,000 years, Australia’s First Nations People have been performing cultural burns to promote growth, manage the landscape and improve the health of the land and its people. Since 2024, this process has been incorporated into the Yarra Ranges Council’s planned burning program.

The first cultural burn was led at Spadonis Reserve in Yering.

Cultural burns are conducted intentionally by traditional owners of Country and have many purposes, ranging from healing to ceremonial. Also known as ‘cool burns’, cultural burns are gentle and do not penetrate through the top layer of soil.

Instead of predominantly pre-burning to eliminate potential fire fuel, cultural burns are also used to encourage biodiversity.

Wurundjeri man and Indigenous Development Officer at the Yarra Ranges Council, Darren Wandin said, “Fuel reduction isn’t the name of the game. What we’re looking at is reintroducing and revitalising existing species.”

The soil layer is seen as a seed or ‘memory’ bank that stores the identity of the burn site. Noxious weed species such as Philaris grass are burned off and the seedbank is left to regenerate native species.

“Timing is critical for a landscape like this. It’s about working with those elements, making sure that they’re favourable,” Mr Wandin said.

“It really is about going out and reading the country, understanding what’s there and what’s present, touching the soil and touching the grass.”

Due to their ‘cool’ nature, cultural burns are relatively low risk.

The addition of Cultural burning to the Yarra Ranges Council’s 2024-2034 Nature Plan and Fire as Land Management Tool is supported by the

Firesticks Program - a national Indigenous network dedicated to reviving Cultural knowledge practices.

Seeing as much knowledge of the Wurundjeri people’s burning practices has been lost, the Firesticks program and the council have drawn upon the burning practices from other nations across Australia in efforts to combine and revive these cultural practices.

“In reconciliation, where you’ve got Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people applying traditional knowledge systems on the landscape together…” Mr Detez said as the last whisps of smoke began to peter out, -

“We can protect our community and work hard to bring that ancient healing back into our landscapes.”

PLANNED BURNS

An essential land management tool in Victoria, planned burns are used to reduce the risk of bushfires and promote the health of the environment.

These controlled fires are carried out under specific conditions and are heavily monitored by trained firefighters and other specialists to manage fuel loads such as grass, leaves and fallen

branches and to protect communities.

Planned burns reduce bushfire size and severity, aid bushfire suppression efforts, reduce bushfire risk, reduce the ignition likelihood in areas where large bushfires are predicted to occur, and facilitate ecological diversity and regeneration.

Part of forest fire management, planned burns in the Yarra Ranges are managed collectively by the Country Fire Authority (CFA), Forest Fire Management Victoria and the Yarra Ranges Council.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer and Director Forest and Fire Operations for Port Phillip Region, Tamara Beckett, confirmed that there are many facets to planned burning, ranging from slashing to creating breaks between fuel areas.

“We have a long-term plan about areas where we can undertake planned burning to reduce fuel loads and slow or stop the spread of a fire once it gets up and going. It’s a really big program,” Ms Beckett said.

“In partnership with the fuel management program, we also do a whole range of mechanical fuel treatment. So mulching, slashing and mowing along tracks to create those breaks in the fuel.

“We have a whole range of people who are

really highly trained and use a whole range of different plants and equipment, as well as aircraft, in order to respond to fires when they start.”

Some individual burns are higher priority than others due to their greater ability to reduce fire risk than in other areas.

The process for planned burning is a long one that involves many resources and much planning. Victoria’s Joint Fuel Management Program manages fuel on both public and private land in accordance with a three-year plan.

Each year, the plan is updated to showcase future planned burns and high-risk areas.

Planned burning and the ‘Planned Burning Program’ are umbrella terms that cover all kinds of processes.

“As part of the Planned Burning Program, we undertake risk reduction burns, ecological burns and cultural burns, so we refer to the whole lot as the planned burning program,” Ms Beckett said. THE EFFECTS OF PLANNED BURNING/ PLANNED BURNING AND THE LANDSCAPE

“If we leave fire out of many of our ecosystems, we start to lose plant and animal species from those systems. If we put the wrong fire into those environments, we will also lose species.”

Forest Fire Management Victoria use a number of techniques to prepare for fire season, including fire. (FFMVIC)
Spadonis Reserve in Yering was the first location Yarra Ranges Council led a cultural burn. (479656)
All burns are closely monitored and conducted safely by the FFMVic team, with the most recent data and research informing the practice. (FFMVIC)

FIRE RESILIENT COMMUNITIES

“It is about finding the right mix of fire, in order to maintain and promote our country’s biodiversity.”

Professor in Bushfire Behaviour and Leader of the fire research team at the University of Melbourne, Dr Trent Penman is passionate about fire management.

He knows that burning is a fine art that requires precision.

An art that when conducted at the wrong times, may have serious consequences for flora and fauna alike.

Dr Penman knows just how integral burning is to the preservation and functioning of our environment. And he knows just how planned burning is supposed to function.

Despite the secluded nature of the Yarra Ranges, the practices that are implemented by fire agencies in our own community are not too different from those that are facilitated across Australia, and even the globe.

Despite planned burning not being a new concept, its present day application in the Yarra Ranges looks very different to what it did a century ago. Now incorporating slashing, mulching, the creation of land breaks and the reintroduction of cultural burning, planned burning schemes are tailored to the needs of different regions.

Dr Penman, noted the divergent planned burning protocols for different areas.

“Over in the eastern part of the state where we have quite dissected terrain, in the form of very steep slopes and wet gullies, prescribed burning, can occur on the drier ridge tops with the burn running down into the gullies and the natural moisture gradient will act as a barrier for the fire to spread,” he said.

“Prescribed burning strategies across the region involves burning in different places in different ways, so for example, near houses, they will burn more intensely and more frequently to lower fuels so that if a fire does come near those houses, there is a higher chance of suppression crews being able to protect those houses.

“The first goal of fire management in Victoria and across Australia is to change fire behaviour to get a suppression advantage in order to protect life and property.”

Although most Planned burns can be effective at mitigating fire risk for approximately eight years after they are implemented, a single burn itself will not necessarily change the effects of larger fires.

Dr Penman said, “Planned burns have little effect when it comes to larger scale fire events such as the Black Saturday fires, however even under extreme conditions, planned burns are useful for around eight years, which is quite a long time, relative to the treatment.”

Albeit having limited effects on large scale fires, planned burning at a higher intensity around built-up areas has “high chances of fire suppression” according to Dr Penman.

The new code of practice for bushfire management on public land released by Victoria earlier this year, includes four elements; the protection of life and property, the protection of infrastructure, the promotion of resilient ecosystems, and space to allow self determination of indigenous communities for land management.

In developing their fire management plans, agencies must therefore, allow space for all of these elements, while serving their primary purpose of protecting life and property.

Burning in the landscape is conducted for the joint reason of trying to moderate fire behaviour as well as to promote ecological values.

“Some landscapes might need fire every thirty to fifty years, and different areas need different types of fires as well,” Dr Penman said.

One of the areas Australia excels in is fire detection.

Dr Penman said, “We know that the detection rate in most areas of Australia, particularly around the urban and the semi rural setting is extremely fast and we are also sending crews to these fires extremely quickly.”

In terms of improvements that need to be made to Victoria’s Fire Management system, Dr Penman emphasises the importance of ongoing public engagement.

“The biggest change I have seen over the last 20 to 25 years in fire management is the extent to which community conversations are being included, and it’s a very good thing,” Dr Penman said.

“So if there’s anything they can do more of, it’s probably about engaging with the communities to provide information on why they’ve made the decisions they are making and what, those conversations determine whether fire management plans are realistic or, no longer feasible,” he said.

While many of Victoria’s Planned Burning

initiatives have been developed over years of application, a new investment in and incorporation of mulching into the state’s fire management scheme is making headway.

Dr Penman said, “Mulching is a non-fire way of changing fuel structure, and it is used primarily for asset protection zones.”

“Victoria has been having some success with mulching, in terms of increasing the longevity of the fuel reduction effect, and also reducing smoke load on human populations because we know smoke is a major issue,” he said.

Mulching noxious weeds and leaving the remainders on the ground improves suppression abilities, as the mulch-bed curbs flame heights limiting the travel speed of the fire.

Further, mulching increases biodiversity, encouraging native species to flourish where foreign species once dominated.

Dr Penman said, “Mulch beds take a while to break down with the bigger fuels. They’ll retain a lot of moisture in the soil, so it will allow species to regenerate.”

“Early results are suggesting the plant communities are coming back more like a natural community rather than the wheat infested simplified community before, and the bird communities are more diverse in the mulched areas than they are in these dense weed infested areas as well, so there’s both biodiversity benefit and a fire risk benefit.

“The mulch will still burn, but it will burn slower.”

While the mulch fuels can take up to two and a half hours to cover, one and a half meters, whereas the leaf litter that you’d have in a forest might only take a few minutes.

“It means that those communities right behind those mulched areas may have a little bit longer to safely evacuate,” Dr Penman said.

Due to it being a relatively new mode of fire control, further impacts of mulching, such as its effect on microbial communities and other biodiversity values are yet to be discovered.

Another fire management initiative that is being rolled out is the ‘bushfire map moderation zone’ which is a series of burns that are put in place to reduce either the intensity or behaviour and positioning of a fire.

Dr Penman said, “Most houses in Australia are lost from embers, so if we can reduce the embers that are coming into our urban areas, that can make a big difference.

“Bushfire map moderation zones try to reduce

embers and can be situated in strategic places in the landscape.”

In accompaniment to the fire management initiatives mentioned above, there is new research being conducted on ‘refugia’ - areas of the landscape that are less likely to burn.

With increasing identification of refugia, efforts are being made to protect these unburned areas, to encourage biodiversity and maintain safe havens for wildlife.

Despite the rigorous fire management action that is being taken by local, state and federal agencies, Dr Penman elicited that climate change remains a threat to fire safety and therefore, the livelihood and security of Australia’s people, biodiversity and climate.

Dr Penman said, “All the models that we’ve been looking at and others have been looking at all tell us that the frequency of big fires is going to increase.”

“As things are changing and we’re seeing shifting fire patterns for climate change and a host

ofotherreasons,weneedtobeabletolookforward, game the system and actually look at what the potential outcomes are and what risks agencies will be able to mitigate.”

According to Dr Penman, the ways that individuals can take action involve recycling, reducing the use of vehicles and limiting the use of soft plastics among other items.

“As individuals, we can take actions, but, unfortunately, it’s very much in the hands of the world leaders at the moment to actually make serious climate change action. But we’re not going to see fundamental change until the globe is on board and actually make some hard decisions,” Dr Penman said.

“If we wait another 20 years, it’s going to be harder because things are already changing now and will continue to change into the future. Everyone has to come together, but nobody really is in the driving seat at the moment.

“It’s not just one government agency, it’s not just one community. Everybody is affected by this.”

Mr Wandin said cultural burns are not about fire reduction but ‘reintroducing and revitalising existing species’. (479656)
Wurundjeri man and Indigenous Development Officer at the Yarra Ranges Council, Darren Wandin has helped lead the reintroduction of cultural burning. (Oliver Winn: 479656)

Toy library brings the smiles

Parents and children of Warburton have a new toy library after the grand opening of Brushy’s Toy Library on 21 August.

Formerly known as the Upper Yarra Toy Library, the new toy library at ADRA Community Care Warburton would provide toys for children at a fraction of the cost, help families save money and reduce environmental impacts.

ADRA Community Care Warburton manager Kate Barratt said families had found the toy library was a crucial part of the community.

“For a start, the cost of living at the moment is just exhaustive. So to take the cost of having to buy so many things for your kids… is really important,” Ms Barratt said.

“Being able to support them all the time is really exciting.”

Melody May the water fairy was also at the grand opening where she did facepainting for the kids.

Parents can join up to Brushy’s Toy Library for a six to 12 month membership, which allows them to borrow up to five toys at a time from the library. Toy browsing can be done online or in person. For further information, contact the email: brushystoylibrary@icloud.com.

Alongside toys for younger children, the Brushy’s Toy Library would also supply toys for older children too.

Ms Barratt also pointed out how borrowing toys was better for the environment.

“The environmental benefit is that there’s no waste. People aren’t just chucking things out,

they’re renewing their toy stock all the time by just borrowing it.”

The grand opening for the Brushy’s Toy Library was supported by donations from ADCare Community Op Shop.

ADCare Community Op Shop team leader

Kathy Kearns said she was pleased to be able to provide the donations for local organisations.

“We were very happy to honour Kate’s request for support for the Toy Library. Our mission as a community op shop is to support the various aspects of our community,” Ms Kearns said.

“Being so far out from the city, it’s really good that parents don’t have to travel too far to actually bring their kids to a toy library.”

The cost of living crisis would also be alleviated by the new toy library, Ms Kearns said, as it helped parents give their children toys at no cost.

“Ordinary working families where both parents are working. High mortgages, high interest rates and high rent. All of that kind of thing is a huge burden on ordinary working families where they can’t afford the extras of sport, library, toys,”

Ms Kearns said.

But this new library would be a great opportunity to address that issue.

“It’s wonderful that we can have this opportunity today for a toy library in the community.”

The Upper Yarra Toy Library was opened in March 1984, where volunteers at ADRA Community Care wanted to start a toy library for their own children.

But Ms Barratt said as the volunteers’ kids grew older, a change of hands was needed, which led to the new Brushy’s Toy Library.

“They didn’t want it to fold, and it was just perfect timing for us, because we’ve now been able to create this beautiful Brushy’s play space.

“To invite more families in and be more family friendly, it just works perfectly for us to take it on.”

Fair wind and students deliver a new weather station

Warburton Primary School’s environment captains have worked to establish a professional grade weather station and website which will give key insights into the conditions in the local area.

The environment captains, students Nathan, Tara and Chill, approached local businesses in Warburton and raised $2000 which has funded the weather station and a website to display real-time information.

Warburton Primary School principal Nathan Van Der Monde said it was inspiring what the children had achieved for the school.

“We’re incredibly proud that they took it upon themselves to create an idea and actually bring it to fruition.

“I think it’s really amazing that students believe that they can make positive change, but also, enact it and put it out there in the world and make the changes that they want to see,” Mr Van Der Monde said.

The captains were encouraged by the want to drive positive positive change at the school while also looking for a way to contribute to their interests in the environment.

“So it’s very in line with their purpose at the school, which is to improve our environment, understand our environment better, and to look after our environment.”

Their research landed them a figure of roughly $1500 to fund a weather station, so Nathan, Tara and Chill took to local businesses to ask for donations.

“They wrote letters to all of the businesses in Warburton, they went down and hand-delivered all of the letters and spoke to managers of several businesses in town and got a great response.”

Seven businesses donated to the project and most businesses donated around $50 to $100.

But a “significant donation” came from the Warburton Pharmacy, which Mr Van Der Monde said was “very generous of them”.

The additional $500 will go to developing a website to display the information from the weather station and it will be installed in October.

Mr Van De Monde said they were leaders due

to their leadership qualities and ability to communicate effectively.

“They spoke so well and they were so respectfulandclearandpeoplereallyenjoyedlisteningto their project. A lot of the businesses wrote emails back to the students explaining what they’d like to do and why they wanted to support them.”

The new weather station will serve a myriad of functions and offer plenty of utility to the school.

“At the moment we don’t have any way of tracking rainfall and ground temperature and all the different sort of weather patterns of Warburton,” Mr Van De Monde said.

“This [weather station] will be a way for them to track that at school, present that to the students, give them a six-day, seven-day forecast as well, so they talk about weather coming up.

“I think it’ll be really in line with their values.”

Big bike shed dreams come true for young trailblazers

The cogs are turning on a new bike shed at Wandin North Primary School, thanks to the excellent leadership and initiative of two yearsix students.

From drawing up the design plans, organising the construction and even sourcing funding from the local community bank, Students Parker and Mitchell led the entire development on their own volition.

Wandin North Primary School principal Paul Bailey said the two boys set a bright example for the rest of their peers.

“These two boys thought of an idea, planned it, showed initiative in terms of not just words, but what their actions would be.

“It’s quite inspiring for the children to see that things can come together with great planning and great teamwork,” Mr Bailey said. Parker and Mitchell both rode their bikes to school and saw how the lack of a roof over the bike storage area stopped them, and others, from riding to school on days it was forecast to rain.

“It was resulting in some of the children’s bikes getting wet and children deciding not to ride their bikes to school due to the lack of infrastructure that was there,” Mr Bailey said.

The pair booked a meeting with Mr Bailey where they would pitch their bike shed concept through a powerpoint presentation, and then later pitch it to the school council.

After they won over the council, Mr Bailey encouraged them to approach Community Bank Wandin-Seville, where they would score an $8000 sponsorship to fund the new bike shed.

Community Bank Wandin-Seville executive officer Leah Thompson said the bank was always happy to support local projects.

“Our purpose is to support our local community. We know times can be tough with budgets and financial strain affecting not only schools, but also many local organisations.

“So we love that we can be involved and help to fund local projects, especially ones that our youth benefit from and are so passionate about,” Ms Thompson said.

Once the project secured funding, Jackie But-

ler from Community Bank Wandin-Seville visited the school to announce the project’s success and show recognition to the boys’ hard work.

The boys also drew upon their supportive families to assist in the construction of the shed as their dads completed the concrete foundations and roofing for the shed.

In their final year of primary school, Parker and Mitchell wanted to leave Wandin North Primary School a better place.

“The main message for the two boys was to try and leave Wandin North Primary School a better place for when they left it, and to be able to have an idea that supports the children for the now, but then provide that infrastructure to support the children into the future.”

Mr Bailey said he aimed to teach children at Wandin North Primary School to think about how they can make a change in Wandin North.

“We have built a culture at Wandin North for children to be able to think of others and to think outside of their bubble, how they can influence and have an impact in our Wandin north community and our wider community at the same time.”

“It’s a great testament for the kids at our school at Wandin North.”

L-R: Melody May the water fairy and Kate Barrett. (Oliver: 497811)
Children play around with toys at Brushy’s play space. (Oliver: 497811)
Environment captains Nathan, Tara and Chill asked many local businesses for donations. (Supplied)
A “significant donation” came from the Warburton Pharmacy. (Supplied)
Parker and Mitchell led the development for the new bike shed. (Supplied)

This 1–7 September, Zoos Victoria invites you to take part in Wild Week — a fundraising challenge supporting local threatened species. Walk, run, swim, or take on any wild challenge of your choice, and help us fight extinction.

Victoria’s local threatened species need you. Sign up today via the QR code or online at zoo.org.au/wildweek

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

The power of crafting change

The power of craft to bring about change and awareness on the issues and challenges facing society is not new but craftivist Tal Fitzpatrick brings a new lens to this old concept.

Her touring collection of textile banners landed at the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum in early August, exploring themes of gender-based inequality.

Changemakers: Crafting a difference forms part of the Museum of Australian Democracy’s (MoAD) larger exhibition in Canberra highlighting women’s contributions to Australia’s democracy and development.

The broader exhibition, Tal said highlights the “significant women who made a big impact on our society” but her vision was to look beyond individuals.

“My project, which was done in collaboration with a few artists, involved making a series of banners that celebrated not just individuals, but movements that have reshaped our world, and in Australia in particular,” she said.

“So thinking not just about those individual stories, but all those people who participated in everything from women’s suffrage to addressing gender-based violence to queer rights to environmental issues, all the people involved in those community driven grassroots change making projects.

“These banners are really about celebrating people-power and the way people can make a difference when they speak up for what they believe in and for what’s right.”

The touring component specifically looks at issues like gender-based violence, financial abuse and the housing crisis, “things that are really impacting people and their capacity to thrive in the everyday”, through a lens of women’s rights.

Tal views her work as “storytelling devices” that can not only ignite conversations but allow people to find their own voice.

This has and always will be an essential purpose of craft, which has transformed over time as technology evolved but remains rooted in change making.

“Craft has always really been used as part of people’s modes of resistance and self-advoca-

cy, and we can see that all around the world, all through history,” she said.

Yarra Ranges Regional Museum curator Maddie Reece said Tal’s work projects “a contemporary political activist angle” onto the medium of quilts and textile art, traditionally seen as women’s work.

“You make a banner or a plaque when you’re protesting something, but also it’s very much considered a women’s art form,” she said.

“Historically, when women were trying to get the right to vote with the suffrage movement at the turn of the 20th century, they created banners, really fighting for the women’s cause.

“It’s really interesting to reflect on that, 120 years, 130 years on from those first conversations. We’ve had a lot of people come through the museum so far and comment that it really does speak to women’s experience in contemporary Australia, and not just historically.”

Maddie said the museum space itself provides a sense of quiet that allows people to reflect and “absorb their beauty and the talent (and) appreciate them for their complexities”.

“There’s something about the materiality in my work, it’s quilting and embroidery and applique that I think is inherently familiar and comforting to audiences, and that makes it a little eas-

ier to bring up difficult subject matters,” Tal said.

Craftivism, the act of using craft for activism, Tal said, was something she stumbled on during her PhD research, and the term and practice combined her work in community development, her activism and her art.

The textile artist blends two fundamental practices into her work: a voice and the community.

“I’m a socially engaged artist, so I was looking at ways to make art in and with community in a way that was engaging and didn’t have some of those barriers to entry that sometimes come up with more traditional ‘fine art’ mediums,” she said.

“There’s an amazing skill set within the community that relates to craft and particularly textiles. So it’s a really good way to do work that is collaborative and participatory and invites social participation.”

Encouraging people to have a voice through craft, whether big or small, Tal will be hosting two workshops at the Museum on Saturday 30 August, after an artist talk.

The first workshop will be dedicated to young people aged 16 to 24, with an all-ages workshop later in the day; both are free.

Maddie said this idea of community engage-

Paint or sketch Mont De Lancey’s beauty

Mont De Lancey will be launching into spring with a first-of-its-kind event for the historical homestead, putting the magnificent grounds on show.

Artists of all kinds are invited to join the Plein Air Art Painting Day on Saturday 6 September to sketch, paint and even photograph Mont De Lancey’s buildings and landscapes.

Describing it as “a painting open day”, Mont De Lancey president Jill Sebire said it’s something new for the historical landmark, inspired by artist-in-residence Donna Legg’s bi-weekly painting group in the gallery.

“I found people coming into the gallery and showing interest in the art, which turns out that some of them would like to paint, but work or whatever, and couldn’t join the group that we have,” Ms Legg said.

“Somehow I just came up with the idea of, let’s get the community together, let’s make it so that it’s not just for people who know what they’re doing, but people who would like to do it in a very casual environment where they’re encouraged to

have a go.”

Ms Legg said not to mention that the scenery of Mont De Lancey serves as inspiration at every corner, with the smallest details triggering artistic beauty.

Aside from being able to use the facilities for inspiration, Ms Sebire said everything will be open for exploration, with a reduced entry price for other visitors.

The artists will be required to bring their own supplies for the day, and are encouraged to either bring a picnic or purchase something from the Two Peas cafe.

The day will run from 9.30am to 3.30pm, with artists able to spend as much time in the grounds as they please.

Somewhat desperate for visitors to the Wandin North property, Ms Sebire said, with so many artists across the Yarra Ranges, she hopes this will bring them in to enjoy and experience what Mont De Lancey has to offer.

All proceeds from the ticket sales will go directly into maintaining and running Mont De Lancey.

There’s hope that if successful, another art day can be put on the agenda.

Artists are encouraged to use their preferred medium to paint or sketch the scenery. (Mikayla van Loon: 498400)

“I realised that so many people have never been here before. I realised that so many people have an interest in art who have never tried be-

Zine workshops ahead of Healesville festival

Leading up to the Healesville Zine and Comic Festival, the festival organiser will host zine workshops to introduce the zine world to community members.

Cora Zon has facilitated zine workshops at schools, libraries and festivals for five years.

Ms Zon has also run a radio program Zine on Yarra Valley FM, introducing local, national and international zine makers as well as zine fair organisers and festival organisers.

She is going to host an inaugural Healesville Zine and Comic Festival later this year.

“The festival is a celebration of zines, comics and spoken word, so there’ll be zines, comics,

storytelling, speeches, poetry and workshops,” Ms Zon said.

“It’s going to take place from 31 October to 1 November at the Memo Healesville. The zine fair is on 1 November.”

Prior to the festival, Ms Zon is planning to hold zine workshops.

The next workshop will be the Wild Zine Workshop at Healesville Sanctuary over the Wine and Wildlife weekend between 30 and 31 August.

Ms Zon said this event is the perfect opportunity to learn how to create your very own zine about your favourite Australian animals, which is designed for everyone from all age groups, and no experience is needed.

“Zines are the most accessible form of self-pub-

ment and activism is strongly entwined with the Yarra Ranges.

“This region, if we don’t look at just the women’s aspect, does have a really rich history of protest and activism,” she said.

“People fighting McDonald’s, protesting to protect the forest. Uncle William Barak was the first civil rights activist, and Lin and Bill Onus out in Belgrave as well.”

To find out more, and to book, visit: yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Explore-Yarra-Ranges/Events/ Changemakers-Crafting-a-difference-Artist-Talk-and-Workshops

fore. So let’s combine both and get it out there, and if it’s successful, it can happen again,” Ms Legg said.

The painting day is designed to be an extension of the Wednesday afternoon and Friday morning painting group sessions, something Ms Legg said is “a group of people who just come along, are like-minded and who are developing friendships”.

“We learn from each other. We’re all learning different things. It’s just so much fun. We have a great time,” she said.

“We have the privilege of having an art teacher in our art group, Dorothy McVay, known for her paintings of the Yarra Valley for the past 42 years.” Able to host 10 people in each group, the Wednesday session has five positions available, while the Friday session only has room for one more.

While there will be no formal art instruction, Ms Legg said advice and guidance from others will be given.

To book a spot, visit: montdelancey.org.au/ event/plein-air-art-painting-day-202509/

lishing. Making a mini or small zine is easy. All you need is your own story, some simple art materials and paper,” she said.

“At Wild Zines Workshop, participants will learn how to make a mini zine or a small zine, and then they can photocopy their original piece at the library to make a small print run to trade their collection of wild zines with other zinesters.”

Wine and Wildlife is a paid event, and the Wild Zine Workshop is free with entry.

Two more Wild Zine Workshops are scheduled at the local zoo on 28 September and 19 October.

Ms Zon will run more zine workshops at Healesville Library and TarraWarra Museum of Art before the festival, which will be free of charge.

To learn more about the Healesville Zine and Comic Festival, visit the following website: healesvillezineandcomicfestival.org

Craftivist Tal Fitzpatrick uses textile banners to encourage conversation and reflection on difficult topics. (Museum of Australian Democracy)
The workshops provide people a space to voice and create in a safe space. (Museum of Australian Democracy)
The eight banners at the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum speak to gender-based inequality. (Museum of Australian Democracy)
The contrast of artistic form to subject matter, Tal said makes uncomfortable conversations easier. (Museum of Australian Democracy)
Cora Zon is inviting community members to zine workshops and Healesville Zine and Comic Festival. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 497615)

FERNY CREEK HORTICULTURAL SPRING SHOW

Bloomin’ delights at show

Sassafras will be the site of the Ferny Creek Horticultural Society’s beloved annual Spring Show on the weekend of 6 and 7 September.

The Spring Show is full to the brim of a huge variety of plants and more, with a band of volunteers busy prepping for the big event.

“Our flower hall will be a breathtaking experience,“ said FCHS Secretary Emma Moysey.

With a floor garden, stunning daffodils, camellias, natives, hanging and indoor plants, rock garden and alpine plants, bonsai, rhododendrons, along with a wonderful children’s section, the show is set to be a fun weekend outing for spring in the Dandenongs.

“We also have our craft group stall, and so much more,” said Ms Moysey.

Judges are preparing to view the best flower exhibits on the day, looking for form, condition, colour and quality in the entries.

“Hundreds of entries will adorn the show benches,” said Ms Moysey.

With a hall full of flowers and perfume, the visually stunning and sweet-smelling show hall is set to impress, and receives hundreds of visitors from near and far every year.

Running for 93 years, the Ferny Creek Horticultural Society holds three flower shows and a plant collector’s sale each year and operates from a beautifully tended 10-acre ornamental garden in Sassafras.

“We have over 350 members from a wide range of backgrounds and demographics, our youngest member is seven years old, and our most mature - 90 years old, all our welcome,” said Ms Moysey.

The group meet each Monday and Thursday morning to work in the garden, but also on less energetic activities.

“We maintain our extensive library, and are writing up the History of the FCHS, which in 2032 will be 100 years old,” said Mr Moysey. The group have regular meetings on specific topics, but also generalist talks.

“Like our new Bonsai Group, and the wonderful Ikebana Study Group, and there is even talk of a new Butterfly Collective Group with local Monbulk icon Yvonne Duke,” said Ms Moysey.

“We also make regular excursions to wonderful gardens and nurseries. Come along to a meeting, you don’t have to join up straight away - just see how you would fit in with such a friendly and welcoming group,” she said.

The upcoming spring show is a family-friendly day set to impress, with garden tours by Don Teese and Keith Ross, a lovely lot of lunch options

from BBQ, to fresh sandwiches, homemade soup, or Devonshire tea.

Handmade craft, stunning plants from plant stalls, and lovely bouquets of cut flowers created by our florists will be available for purchase and a number of vendors from near and far will be there for the show.

There will be peonies from Freshbrook Peony Farm, tree, itoh and herbaceous with Marie Jordan, botanipedia succulents and rare treasures with Jin Xi, along with Ferns from Silvan Fern Nursery with Glen and Karen, and lovely daffodil varieties will be available from

and

The show is $7 entry for Non-Members with children under 14 years old free, on Saturday from 12pm to 4pm and Sunday from 10am to 4pm at 100 Hilton Rd Sassafras.

For more information, head to the Ferny Creek Horticultural Society website at www.fchs.org.au/

Hancock’s Daffodils duo Will
Christine Ashburner.
Running for 93 years, the Ferny Creek Horticultural Society (FCHS) holds three flower shows and a plant collector’s sale each year. (Supplied).
A wonderful Spring Show in Sassafras is just around the corner. (Supplied).
Flowers, cuttings, bouquets, displays and more will be on show in Sassafras over the weekend of 6 and 7 September. (Supplied).

Council needs feedback

We’re looking to hear from dog owners and park users alike over the next few weeks, as we work on finalising our draft People and Dogs in Parks Plan for the Yarra Ranges.

The plan, quite simply, outlines how Council will manage off-leash areas on land that we own or manage, using research and feedback from the community.

I know this is an area that people are extremely passionate about. We’ve had many conversations over the years about off-leash areas – where they should be and, in particular, how we manage to keep pets and people safe through things like guidelines and fencing.

We recently released our draft plan, which we created using feedback from the community.

From my From my desk

In this plan, we’re proposing fully-enclosing some dog off-leash areas, in particular: Belgrave Lake Park, Coronation Park in Healesville, Elizabeth Bridge Reserve in Kilsyth, Kimberley Reserve in Chirnside Park and a partial fence at Wesburn Park.

The real Taken Two

The Naked Gun

Starring Liam Neeson, Pamela Anderson and Danny Huston

M 4/5

A soft reboot of the Naked Gun series, The Naked Gun is a blast from the past that puts a remarkable amount of effort and smarts into its slapstick fun.

Lieutenant Frank Drebin Jr. (Liam Neeson), the son of Leslie Nielsen’s character from the original Naked Gun movies, investigates a hightech conspiracy after thwarting a bank robbery. It’s rare to see a modern big-budget comedy so unashamedly silly, featuring wonderfully stupid moments mixed with ingenious sight gags and wordplay.

There are a few clunkers here and there, but most of the comedy lands perfectly.

Neeson ably fills Nielsen’s bumbling shoes as Lt. Drebin, his charisma brings believability to even the most absurd moments, and he is clearly

having a blast spoofing his own old man action hero image.

Plus, The Naked Gun is far better than the second and third Taken movies.

Pamela Anderson gets to riff on her own Baywatch-based sex symbol legacy as the hilarious femme fatale Beth Davenport, and matches Neeson’s deadpan wit at every turn.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

We believe this will offer a good balance – we want to help keep pets safe from running away, while also encouraging people to keep control over their animals to avoid poor behaviour.

There are some off-leash areas that we’ll be reviewing, to see if they should be changed to onleash areas. For example – Cherlynne Crescent Easement in Kilsyth, Elizabeth Bridge Reserve’s oval in Kilsyth, Hickman Place Reserve in Seville, Hull Road Drainage Reserve in Mooroolbark, Minak Reserve in Selby, Summerhill Park Drive Reserve in Mooroolbark and Wandin East Recreation Reserve.

Importantly, no final decisions have been made on these areas – we’re only suggesting to review them.

And, crucially, we want to hear from the community to see if we’ve got the balance right. When we drafted the plan, we got a significant amount of feedback from people who own dogs – who are the people more likely to be invested in the plan. But the reality is, we all use our parks and reserves.

We’d love to hear from people who don’t have pets and who use local parks, along with dog owners, to make sure we can fine tune our plan before it gets endorsed.

Visit shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au before 14 September to read the plan and leave your thoughts.

Cr Jim Child, Mayor of Yarra Ranges

Support Dandenong Ranges Literary Festival

The inaugural Dandenong Ranges Literary Festival will take place in Belgrave on Friday 17 and Saturday 18 October.

The organising committee, consisting of enthusiastic locals and friends, are now busy finalising the program, which will be launched on Thursday 11 September.

As our readers would know, the Dandenong Ranges have always been home to artists, writers and poets of diverse backgrounds.

For the Festival, local authors already confirmed include Lia Hills, Sue Smethurst, Kate Mildenhall, Elle McFadzean, Kylie Orr, Alison Goodman and Paul Kennedy.

These and other authors will gather at the Festival as panelists and workshop hosts to cover a wide range of genres and topics, including but not limited to: historical fiction, crime, romance, biography/autobiography, young adult fiction and junior fiction, as well as tips on self-publishing and approaching traditional publishers.

But the Festival is much more than just literary exchanges.

Rather, with this year’s theme being “A Sense of Place”, the Festival offers ample opportunity for speakers and audiences alike to explore what place means to them.

As the Festival website declares: “The Festival will showcase the Dandenong Ranges as a place of inspiration and creativity, its history and the writers and readers who have and continue to live and work here.”

And this is why the Dandenong Ranges Literary Festival deserves our support.

Not only because all participants will benefit from the literary conversations and community events, but the Festival will also have a positive impact on local businesses by boosting sales and building reputation and profile.

Our readers can make a difference by spreading the word.

Please tell your families and friends, neigh-

All the local entertainment coming up

Eltham Little Theatre

The Adams Family musical

The Adams Family -a New Musical features an original story, and it’s every father’s nightmare.

Wednesday Adams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family – a man her parents have never met.

And if that weren’t upsetting enough, Wednesday confides in her father.

Stuck in the middle of his daughter and wife, Gomez and Morticia, must figure out what they’re doing before their guests show up for dinner.

Full of laughter, nostalgia and music you can sing along to.

Season: 5 – 20 September.

The Round Theatre

The Elton John Story

Get ready to sing, dance and be dazzled as Music Legends Productions proudly presents a spectacular celebration of the unforgettable hits of Elton John!

From the soaring melodies of Rocket Man and Tiny Dancer to the electrifying music en-

ergy of Crocodile Rock and I’m Still Standing, this performance is an homage to one of music’s most iconic entertainers.

Featuring powerhouse vocals and virtuous piano playing, this show is pure musical magic.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the magic of Elton John for the first time, this high-energy, feel-good event will leave you singing along and wanting more.

Season: Saturday 23 August at 7.30pm.

The Princess theatre

A Beautiful Noise – he Nel Diamond Musical

To make its Australian Premiere Exclusively in Melbourne.

Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A Beautiful Noise is the uplifting story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chartbust-

bours, colleagues, business partners and social acquaintances about the Festival and invite their participation.

Sign up to the Festival newsletter to receive the latest updates.

Use your preferred social media to help promote the relevant events.

Please also consider making a one-off donation or an in-kind contribution.

Businesses around the Dandenong Ranges and nearby regions can offer services that help promote the Festival (e.g. printing), or provide goods to be used as giveaways during the Festival’s many events (e.g. tote bags or vouchers).

Meanwhile, cafes, restaurants and pubs can consider allocating deals that can be advertised to Festival attendees, such as discounts on drinks, meals and/or desserts when presenting an event ticket during the Festival. Last but not the least, whether yours is an organisation or a business, please consider becoming a Community Partner, a Panel Sponsor, or a Foundation Sponsor.

For sponsorship details, visit the Festival website: dandyrangeslitfest.net

As former world champion and three-time Olympic medalist Steve Backley once said: “The first step is the most important. It is the most crucial and the most effective as it will initiate the direction you have chosen.”

Please help bring OUR OWN VERY FIRST LITERARY FESTIVAL to life and make it a success.

ing, show-stopping American rock icon, selling, and sold-out concerts around the world that made him bigger than Elvis.

Neil Diamond’s story was made to shine on Broadway and the world.

Legendary singer-songwriter Neil Diamond’s bond with Australia has been nothing short of extraordinary, spanning decades of musical brilliance and heartfelt connections.

He has undertaken seven major concert tours across the country – beginning with the iconic Thank You Australia in 1976 and followed by memorable returns in 1992, 1006, 1999, 2005, 2011 and 2015 – his anthems resonating deeply with audience securing his place as a cherished figure in Australian music history for nearly half a century.

Season: Opens August 1026.

Turn to Treadworx Lilydale

LocatedintheheartofLilydale,Treadworxisa family-owned business that’s been delivering top-quality tyre, wheel, and suspension services for over 6 years. Known for their friendly approach and deep expertise, Treadworx is the go-to spot for all your automotive needs, catering to a wide range of vehicles, from everyday cars to robust 4x4s and even wheelbarrows.

They offer an impressive range of tyres from leading brands like Maxxis, Yokohama, Falken, Kumho, and many more. Whether you’re looking for durability, performance, or a bit of both, you’ll find the perfect tyre for your vehicle here. Their wheel selection is equally extensive, featuring popular names such as Extreme 4x4, Dynamic, Sniper, ROH, PDW, Lenso, and others,

ensuring a stylish and functional fit for any ride.

Treadworx is also proud to be an authorized Fulcrum Suspensions dealer. They provide a comprehensive range of suspension products from Fulcrum, tailored to meet the needs of every type of vehicle.

Owner Nathan Hawkless sums it up well:

“With over 20 years of experience and a knowledgeable team, we’re dedicated to offering a wide range of high-quality products and services at competitive prices,” he said.

For expert advice, exceptional service, and a personal touch, Treadworx Lilydale is your local destination. Stop by and find out why they’re the preferred choice for so many!

Treadworx Lilydale are your friendly local experts for tyres, wheels and suspension. (Stewart Chambers: 426116)
Treadworx owner Nathan Hawkless. (Stewart Chambers: 426116)

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 Sudden divergence (7)

5 Strong emotion (7)

9 Tempting (9)

10 Coronet (5)

11 Hark! (6)

12 Representative (8)

14 Rue (6)

15 New information (4)

19 Atop (4)

20 Taken illegally (6)

24 Situation (8)

25 Traduce (6)

27 Circular (5)

28 Evening entertainment (9)

29 Go before (7)

30 Follow (7)

DOWN

1 Rough struggle (6)

2 Naturist (6)

3 Abstained from (8)

4 Slender shoot (4)

5 Avoidance (10)

6 Disgust (6)

7 Solitary (8)

8 Rubbish (8)

13 Forethought (10)

16 Move faster and then overtake (8)

17 Water is one (8)

18 Fussy (8)

21 Dilly-dally (6)

22 Resembling instance (6)

23 Aim (6)

26 Ova (4)

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes

LIFESTYLE, SPACE AND FLEXIBILITY

PERFECTLY positioned in Belgrave South, just moments from local shops and with easy access to Wellington Road for an effortless commute, this recently renovated 6.4-acre property delivers the ideal blend of comfort, versatility, and lifestyle appeal.

An oversized front door opens to a welcoming foyer, where fully zoned, electric, reverse cycle refrigerated ducted heating and cooling (My Air) ensures year-round comfort.

The carpeted lounge and formal dining room set a warm, inviting tone, while the open-plan kitchen/dining showcases stone benchtops, an abundance of storage and workspace, walk-in pantry, gas cooktop, dishwasher, and large windows framing leafy views to the deck.

A second living and dining area is bathed in natural light, with doors opening to the large deck for seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining.

The privately zoned master suite offers a walk-through robe to a stylish ensuite, while two further bedrooms with built-in robes share a central bathroom with a large shower and separate toilet. There is also a Study/4th Bedroom and a walk-through laundry with a dream walk-in storage area to add practicality.

Attached to the home, a large selfcontained one-bedroom unit with kitchenette, bathroom, laundry, and split system provides perfect guest or extended family accommodation.

You have your own private Park-Like front garden to relax and enjoy with an abundance of grass, established trees and wildlife.

Well established mature gardens to add to the serenity and beautiful outlook of this property.

Property is Private and Peaceful.

Outdoors, a three-car lock-up garage plus a single carport with a workshop/storage area at the rear and plenty of off-street parking complete this exceptional property.

This property has it all so don’t miss out, it will not last long - call to arrange a private inspection today. Please note: All property details shown are correct at time of publishing. Some properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office.

ONE OWNER STUNNER ON 3.5 ACRES (APPROX.)

REFLECTING timeless elegance with a Wisteria wrapped return verandah that invites you to sit back and relax, this unforgettable home lovingly built by the vendors will take your breath away with its spacious design, alfresco entertaining and beautiful views of the Yarra Valley and manicured garden.

Beaming with bright sunshine, the huge lounge room conveys a welcoming ambience with plush carpet underfoot, 9ft high ceilings soaring overhead and the flickering glow of a wood-burning fireplace warming those cool winter nights.

Hardwood polished floorboards flow through the adjoining meals zone and kitchen where quality appointments include 900mm oven/gas cooktop, corner pantry plus an island breakfast bench adorned with a Mountain Ash benchtop. Creating a casual atmosphere for entertaining, French and sliding doors open out onto the wide verandah and covered alfresco deck, allowing friends and family to gather for a summertime BBQ, while children play amongst the picturesque gardens.

Quietly tucked along the hallway, you’ll find the three robed bedrooms, including the lavishly sized master suite boasting a Siemens heater, large walk-in-robe, ensuite and French door access onto the verandah.

Further serviced by a bright family bathroom with garden outlook, separate toilet and well-sized laundry. Quality finishes include 9ft ceilings throughout, split system heating/ air conditioning, ceiling fans, solar panels, excellent storage, Crimsafe flywire doors, wood shed, storage shed, double carport plus a large driveway with ample space for guest, trailer and machinery parking.

HOME ESSENTIALS

Poised on a magnificent 3.5 acre (approx) allotment, with excellent connectivity to the local primary school, cafe, hotel and of course the Iconic Rail Trail - all just a walk away! And don’t forget Wesburn Park Trail Head -

Address: 12 Station Road, WESBURN Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 4 garage Price: $1,200,000 Inspect: By appointment

Contact: Leah Bannerman 0448 924 266 and Michelle Jones 0411 085 631, BARRY PLANT LILYDALE,  9735 3300

Warburton Mountain Bike Destination also circa 1km away!
Rumour is the first trail opening is not too far away! Yarra Junction township is a short drive for your additional needs including Woolworths,
GP Clinic, Yarra Centre, Police, Little Yarra Steiner School and Upper Yarra Secondary College. This magic parcel is just waiting for you to call it your own! ●

‘RANGES LIFESTYLE LIVING’ - OFF THE PLAN, SINGLE LEVEL UNITS

OWN your own brand-new home. No ‘retirement living’ extra funds required.

****Significant stamp duty savings until October 21st 2025 ****

THE PERFECT ‘LIFESTYLE’ AWAITS, UNITS 2 & 3 AVAILABLE NOW:

• 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. 1 or 2 garages.

• Single level stylish units.

• Easily accessible. Alfresco living with manageable garden retreat.

• A list of inclusions is available to style your new home, see photos from the ‘Building Solutions Studio’ you will attend to make

your choices with professional guidance throughout the process. Small footprint with few neighbours.

• Minutes to Gembrook township, shops, supermarket, cafes, restaurants, post office.

All you need for a wonderful lifestyle in a

picturesque convenient location.

Ranges First National is proudly representing ‘Ranges Lifestyle Living’, if you have any questions, please call Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 or Janet Hawkins 0409 117 432 today. ●

HOME FOCUS

ELEVATED LIVING WITH TREETOP VIEWS

OVERLOOKING lush treetops and only a short distance to the eclectic township of Belgrave, this family sized home presents an exceptional opportunity to own a beautifully maintained, elevated home with all the comforts of modern living and a connection to nature that is hard to match.

Set high off the ground like a tranquil treehouse, with expansive timber deckings both front and rear, this stunning split level, three bedroom home impresses with soaring cathedral ceilings, a flexible open plan layout and abundant natural light. Whether you’re relaxing in the spacious living and dining zone, setting up a home office or creating a second sitting area, the large interior adapts effortlessly to your lifestyle needs.

The kitchen is a true standout-sleek, expansive and expertly updated to meet the needs of home cooks and entertainers alike. With a brand new oven, Miele dishwasher and an abundance of bench space, preparing meals will be a pleasure.

Upstairs, all three bedrooms enjoy views of the sloped, colourful rear yard, bursting with native and indigenous plantings that attract a large assortment of colourful birdlife. The updated bathroom is fresh, modern and ready for daily enjoyment.

Environmentally conscious buyers will appreciate the investment in premium sustainable living:

• 6.8 kW SunPower Maxeon solar system with Enphase microinverters (the best on the market, 40-year warranty) 10 kWh Sonnen battery Fujitsu 9.4 kW reverse cycle air-conditioning and heat pump for year-round comfort

HOME ESSENTIALS

Additional features include:

Freshly painted interior

Gas ducted heating throughout

Fully fenced and gated backyard-safe and secure for pets

for security

• Elevated position offering privacy and leafy outlooks in every direction

to

Address: 76 Belgrave Hallam Road, BELGRAVE Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom Price: $760,000 - $799,000 Inspect: By appointment

Contact: Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442 and Kate Johnson 0434 670 177, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE, 9754 6888

Time for a home loan health check!

With the current cost of living, there’s never been a better time to review your home loan.

Enquire online at bendigobank.com.au/healthcheck or visit your nearest branch.

township, public transport, schools and

tracks,

of comfort, design and eco

Whether you’re starting a family, upsizing, or looking for a tree change, this one is not to be missed. ●

Chicken Coop with run – Well built and pegged down
Located close
Belgrave’s charming
walking
this home is the perfect fusion
conscious living.

PRIME position for peace and privacy, this remarkable property offers breathtaking 180 degree mountain views, a tranquil trickling stream, and a lifestyle to immerse yourself in all just moments from the heart of Warburton. Set on a well maintained large block, the brick home has been a delightful Airbnb and weekender and has been enjoyed by all. Boasting a versatile floor plan ideal for families, entertainers, or those seeking dual living potential.

The home comprises of 4 spacious bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, the expansive master suite complete with walk in robe and private ensuite. The second bedroom also features walk in robe and ensuite ideal for guests or extended family. A further 2 bedrooms with built in robes and family bathroom.

Multiple living zones complete with an formal lounge and dining room with wood fireplace perfect for cozy dinner parties, open plan family room and casual meals area, warmed by the Coonara style wood heater and split system for year round comfort.

Country Kitchen with generous bench & storage space, a dream for home chefs with ample bench space and cupboards galore with full pantry.

Polished timber floors, cathedral ceilings, and large picture windows fill the home with natural light and warmth and the outdoor living space allows you to really indulge in your surrounds. Full length front verandah with uninterrupted views of surrounding mountains and farmland positioned to soak in the scenery and Sparkling pool with generous deck your own summer oasis.

The fully usable block features established gardens, lush lawns, and practical additions including, double carport, good sized shed. All of this within easy reach of Warburton township, the picturesque Yarra River, and the iconic Warburton Rail Trail. ●

PrivateSanctuarywithSpectacularMountainViews &FlexibleFamilyLiving

Primepositionforpeaceandprivacy,thisremarkablepropertyoffersbreathtaking180degree mountainviews,a tranquiltricklingstream,anda lifestyletoimmerseyourself.Thehomecomprises of 4spaciousbedrooms&3bathrooms,theexpansivemastersuitecompletewithwalkinrobeand privateensuite.Thesecondbedroomalsofeatureswalkinrobeandensuite. Afurther 2bedrooms withbuiltinrobesandfamilybathroom.Polishedtimberfloors,cathedralceilings,andlargepicture windowsfillthehomewithnaturallightandtheoutdoorlivingspaceallowsyoutoreallyindulgein yoursurrounds.Fulllengthfrontverandahwithuninterruptedviews,a sparklingpoolwithgenerous deck -yourownsummeroasis.Featuringestablishedgardens,lushlawns,andpracticaladditions including,doublecarport,goodsizedshed.AllofthiswithineasyreachofWarburtontownship!

19WhitegumDrive,EastWarburton$575,000

CuteCottage,OverHalfanAcre– MinutestotheRiver& ReadytoEnjoy! Setona fantastic,fullyfencedallotmentwithtwoconvenientdrivewayentrances,this2 bedroom cottageisallreadyandwaitingforyou!Inside,you’llfind amodernkitchenwithamplecupboard andbenchspace, afreshandlightfilledbathroom,newcarpetsandpaintthroughout,andsplit systemheatingandcoolingforyearroundcomfort.A contemporarycolourpaletteaddstothe bright,invitingatmosphere.Stepoutsidetothereardeckandtakeinstunningmountainviews,enjoy theopenspace,thekidsandfamilypetswilllovethespacetorun!Thehorseshoedrivewayoffers excellentvehicleaccesswithplentyofroomforcars,trailers,oreventhatdreamshed(STCA).This delightfulcottageis agreatstarterortheidealweekenderina peacefullocationclosetonature andthegorgeousYarraRiver.

RebeccaDoolan

M 0401832068

Inspection: Wed 4-4.30pm& Sat10- 10.30am 2 A 1 B

Positionedon agenerousblock,thisbrickveneerhomeis agreatopportunityforfirsthomebuyers, renovators,orsavvyinvestors.Withthreebedrooms,anupdatedbathroomfeaturingfloortoceiling tilesandseparatebathandshower, afreshenedkitchenincludesgascookingandrangehood- all offering aspaciousandcomfortablelayout.Ductedheatingisa bonusandanEuropeanstyle laundryaddtothefeatures,allofferingfantasticvalueforthelocationandpotential.Thereis agood sizerearyard,fullyfencedforkidsandpetswithsidestreetaccessifwishingtoparkvansorvehicles. Whetheryou’relookingtomovestraightin,modernisefurther,oraddtoyourinvestmentportfolio,this homeisreadytowelcomeitsnewowners.Don’tmissyourchance—propertieslikethisaresnapped upquickly!

GloriousAcreswitha FantasticFamilyLifestyle Arareopportunitytosecurea beautifullypresentedsmallacreagepropertywithcommanding viewsinpeacefulsurroundings.Sittingonjustunder 7sensationalacreswith2 separateresidences andofferingtheidealrelaxedlifestyle.Themainhomeisspacious,beautifullypresentedandoffers 4goodsizebedroomsallwithbuiltinrobesincluding akingsizemasterbedroomwith awalkin robe,ensuiteandparentsretreat.Inadditiontothemainhomethereis aseparatewellpresented 3bedroomhomewithmultiplelivingandfamilyrooms,spaciouskitchenandmealsareait’sthe idealplaceforextrafamilymembersortheextendedfamily.Everyonewilllovetheoutdoorswith beautifulestablishedgardens,doublecarportplus atrueclassicoldstylebarnwithamplecar accommodationandworkshopspacewithupstairsgamesroomorextraaccommodation.

10HenriStreet,Warburton

COSY HILLS COTTAGE WITH GARDEN OASIS AND STUDIO RETREAT

TUCKED away in the tranquil heart of the Upwey hills, this charming three-bedroom home is the perfect entry into the market for first-home buyers or anyone seeking the peaceful Hills lifestyle.

Set on a lush block surrounded by established gardens, ferns, and calming treetop views from every window, this home is full of warmth and character. Inside, enjoy the comfort of ducted heating throughout and the charm of a crackling wood fire—perfect for those cosy Hills evenings.

The spacious open-plan living area flows effortlessly onto a large entertaining deck, ideal for hosting friends or simply unwinding in your own private green sanctuary. A separate studio/teenage retreat at the rear of the property offers flexibility for creative space, a home office, or guest accommodation.

From the beautiful garden setting to the inviting interior and versatile layout, 40 Acacia Avenue delivers the quintessential Hills lifestyle with comfort and convenience. Just moments from local cafes, schools, and public transport, this is an exceptional opportunity to secure your slice of Upwey.

Key Features:

• 3 generous bedrooms

• Ducted heating + wood fire

• Large entertaining deck Separate studio/teenage retreat

Leafy gardens with ferns, native flora and lots of potential Peaceful views from every room Ideal for first-home buyers ●

COUNTRY FAMILY RETREAT ON 2 ACRES

SET on a private 2-acre allotment of terraced lawns that gently sweep down to a tranquil creek, this contemporary 4-bedroom plus study residence combines modern comfort with a serene country atmosphere—all just minutes from Belgrave Central. Step inside to discover beautiful timber floorboards flowing throughout the open plan lounge, dining, and kitchen areas. A soaring cathedral ceiling with highlight windows fills the home with natural light, enhancing the sense of space and warmth.

The stunning hostess kitchen is bathed in sunlight and offers sweeping views over rolling hills, while the inviting lounge, complete with a cozy Coonarra fireplace, overlooks a private courtyard—ideal for relaxed entertaining.

Accommodation is thoughtfully designed, master bedroom with walk in robe and ensuite three of the four bedrooms have direct access to a fabulous balcony with uninterrupted views. The fourth bedroom enjoys its own private entrance, perfect for guests or extended family, with all bedrooms serviced by an updated main bathroom.

Downstairs, a substantial multipurpose area currently serves as a gym with bathroom facilities, alongside a wine cellar workshop and excellent storage options. This adaptable space can easily be reimagined as a rumpus room, retreat, or converted back into a garage depending on lifestyle needs. Practicality is matched with convenience, with sealed road access, double carport and garage and an easy drive into Belgrave Central, schools and public transport, ensuring the best of both lifestyle and location.

This unique home offers space, privacy, and flexibility in a picturesque setting—perfect for those seeking a contemporary hills escape. Contact the agent Jan Brewster 0409 558 805 for details. ●

ACRES

Setona private2-acreallotmentofterracedlawnsthatgentlysweepdownto atranquil creek,thiscontemporary4-bedroomplusstudyresidencecombinesmoderncomfort with aserenecountryatmosphere—alljustminutesfromBelgraveCentral.Stepinsideto discoverbeautifultimberfloorboards flowingthroughouttheopenplanlounge,dining, andkitchenareas. Asoaringcathedralceilingwithhighlightwindowsfillsthehomewith naturallight,enhancingthesenseofspaceandwarmth.

JanBrewster 0409558805

ENTERTAINER’SDELIGHT

ModernCharacterHomeona

Sittingproudlyinthemiddleoftheblockandsetamongst asublimeacre(approx)of exquisitegardens,lawnsandMannagums,thisresidenceoffersthecharmofyesteryear butwiththereassuranceofcontemporaryinclusionsthroughout.Thebedroomsallhave builtinrobes,themainbedroomwithanensuite,anda familybathroomservicingthe remainingtwo.Thereis afurtheroptionfora 4thbedroom/teenagerspace– or a‘work fromhome’scenariowithseparateaccess.

MickDolphin 0429684522

CaitiEllis 0493136937

****OFFERSCLOSINGTuesday9thofSeptember @4pm(unlesssoldprior)

More likeahome thanaunit,thisdelightfulhome offers lightfilled spaces, amodern interiorwithgleamingpolishedtimberfloors largewindows –neatand well maintained,it ismoveinready.

Inafantastic location,walkingdistancetoschools, MountainGateShoppingarea,bike tracks, parks, and 15minutesto KnoxShoppingCentre

JanetHawkins 0409117432

SEPARATEBUNGALOW

JanBrewster 0409558805

LOCATEDINONEOFTHEBESTSTREETSINUPWEY?

Such ararefind intheheartoftownwiththisbrickandcedarhomethathasundergonea totalfaceliftandnowoffers avery spaciousfamily home withallwell-proportionedrooms. Thehighly soughtafterallotmentof1,796sqmtr(almosthalfanacre)offersrareNRZ2 zoningandwiththehomebeingsetbackapprox.30meters( theoldhomeatthefront wasremoved),sothere ispotentialfora multi-dwellingdevelopment(STCA)

GrantSkipsey 0418528102

Mackey makes 41

The V.V.Vs:

Unfortunately, after the resuming of competition last week, on Monday mornings, we did not have enough for a competition this week.

We expect to resume regularly again from next week - let’s hope so.

Wednesday 20 August - Stableford:

With good weather, combined with a drying course, and of course member enthusiasm, a field bigger than recent competitions, produced results from eye-popping to very forgettable.

A really eye-popping score came from the blades of the in form member of our club, David Mackey.

David has found a rare vein of form to easily win the top prize, by posting a truly impressive 41 points.

Our runner up doesn’t have to worry about a too generous handicap, because, playing off two, PaulMason shot an eye popping 71 off the stick, to amass 34 points, ensuring that he takes home the second prize.

Great shooting to both of you gentlemen.

Balls extended all the way down to 30 points.

Only three NTPs went home on this day, they going to Glenn Forbes, (third), John Haynes, (ninth) and to that man, David Mackey, (15th).

Saturday 23 August - Stableford Shotgun Start:

After a busy morning of an extraordinary club meeting and a short working bee, the bumper field of 50 plus got down to the serious task of accumulating as many Stableford points over 18 holes as possible.

And, the most effective accumulator was Mr Consistent, Barry Maltman, who posted a very impressive 40 point result.

This earned Barry both bragging rights and the top B grade voucher.

But, Shane “Bomber” Campbell didn’t go home empty handed for his solid 37 point effort.

He claimed the A grade prize.

There was only one runner up declared, and that was Steuart Hawke, for his pleasing 36 point result.

All

and to Geoff Sharp (15th).

Horse Talk

A big weekend of show jumping with Freshmans on Saturday, and a glorious day Sunday for UYARC’s show jumping day. The winners were:

Level three AM5 - Jolene Bullard on Kiama Park Galaxy from Bulla ARC.

Unofficial - Ian Reynolds on Orange Is The New Black from Biddlesden Park EC.

AM7 - Jolene Bullard.

Unofficial - Ian Reynolds.

Jolene took out the Official Champion Level three, Ian the unofficial.

Level four AM5 - Diana Taylor on Mason Park Paris from Yarra Glen ARC.

Unofficial - Jana Compton on Kenlock Chasing Dreams from Pheonix RC.

AM7 - Kylie Booker on Kenlock Super Splash from Upper Yarra ARC.

Unofficial -Rachel Dargue on Mystic Shadows Little Miss Gypsy from Pheonix RC.

Official Level four Champion was Kylie Booker, unofficial Champion was Rachel Dargue.

Level five AM5 - Chelsea Taylor on Mister from Yarra Glen ARC.

Unofficial -Holly Dowsett on Daquara Just Cruzin from Pheonix RC.

AM7 - Chelsea Taylor.

Unofficial - Holly Dowsett.

Official Level five Champion was Chelsea Taylor with Holly taking out the unofficial. Well done competitors, committee and sponsors for a great day.

The show jumping continues this coming weekend at Shirley Heights.

Good work to all three gentlemen, The ball rundown extended to 35 only.
five NTPs on offer were claimed by the following: Shane Campbell (third), Noel Cross (fifth), Captain Whitehead (ninth), Jaiden Lever (12th)
Steuart Hawke was runner up at the Stableford event. (File)
Jolene

Healesville juniors win two more flags

Another two teams from Healesville Junior Football Club lifted the premiership flag.

U14 Boys: Back to back premier

Healesville U14 Boys wrapped up the 2025 season undefeated, becoming the back-to-back premier.

Taking the premiership-winning team over from the previous coach, Lee D’Alterio, the new coach, Clint Barclay, said they all played well together, even from the beginning of the season.

“They won the grand final last year, so they all knew what it was about and how each other played,” Barclay said.

“This group’s been together for a long time.”

The team eventually won the premiership last year after having experienced frustration in the finals for two seasons in a row.

In this season, after tasting the sweetness of lifting the premiership flag, the boys became more desperate to defend the title.

Up to the grand final on 17 August, the team never lost or drew any games.

Unlike the home and away season where they beat opponents easily with big score gaps, the final series challenged the Healesville boys to get to where they wanted.

In the first round of finals, the Healesville U14 Boys won Mount Evelyn by 11 points, 7.7.49 to 6.2.38.

The young Bloods took on Mount Evelyn again at the grand final, where the opponent had prepared for the game with lots of effort for redemption, taking lessons from the previous loss.

“Before the game, we had a chat about how it was going to go and how I thought the game was going to turn out and progress,” Barclay said.

“We knew they were going to come at us hard, tough and physical and push us, and it was going to be a tight, close game.

“The boys just embraced it and knew what they had to do because we played them a few times during the season.”

Leading up to the last quarter, they were winning by eight points.

In the last quarter, Mount Evelyn tried every-

thing for a come-from-behind win.

Despite the hard efforts by the opposition, Healesville U14 Boys was able to keep a one-point lead until the final whistle.

The final score was Healesville 6.7.43 to Mount Evelyn 6.6.42.

“It was about a 20-point lead at one stage, and then towards the end, they started coming back at us,” the coach said.

“For the last five minutes, our back line was under the pump.

“I was super proud of the boys and impressed about how they went about it.”

When asked about the secret to being invincible, Barclay said “hard work, persistence to get better at the skills”.

“We just did training for how we wanted to move the ball and score goals every week, and just believed in the way we’re going to play, and we knew our best footy could get the job done,” Barclay said.

U15 Girls: Beating the season rival for premiership

After the top two teams in the Outer East U15 Girls Football League had a neck and neck season, Healesville finally confirmed the premiership.

It’s the third premiership in a row for the Healesville girls.

Coach Shane Newsome said it’s a massive feat for the Healesville Junior Football Club and the girls.

“It was an incredible journey with the girls. They demonstrated tremendous teamwork, skills and determination,” he said.

“It was a real honour to reach our third premiership.”

To build strong team chemistry, Newsome’s focus was to create a safe and fun environment where everyone felt comfortable and was willing to express themselves on the field.

“We respect each other to start with. Everyone comes from different backgrounds, different cultures, and I think we all go to probably eight different high schools around the area, so respect is a big thing,” he said.

“We challenge ourselves, but at the same time,

Monbulk dominates officer

there’s no malice. We’re always trying to help each other to improve our skill set, our fundamentals.

“And then there’s just the easy thing of having fun, creating drills that are fun, inviting, creative and then also the injection of some music at training and game day.”

Both Healesville and Mount Evelyn finished the regular home and away season with 13 wins and one loss.

Only the points differential separated the two sides, and Healesville U15 Girls was placed at the top of the ladder at the end of the home and away season.

Throughout the season, Newsome didn’t put pressure on the girls with a game plan and tactics, rather, he encouraged the girls to be creative.

“We do some small game sense of tactics, mainly around the centre bounce, and then we just sort of let the girls play,” the coach said.

“We like to play an open brand of football where we can bring players into the game by just running and handballing.

“They just get to go out there and enjoy themselves and have fun. So there’s a little bit of structure, but not too much.”

During the finals, Healesville girls took on their season rival, Mount Evelyn, twice to lift the premiership flag.

In the grand final, Mount Evelyn started the game by pushing Healesville strongly, kicking two goals within three minutes.

“We found ourselves behind on the scoreboard very quickly, but the best thing about that was there was still a fair bit of game time to go, so we sort of knuckled down, got a little bit more balance around stoppages,” the coach said.

“I told the girls to always remain positive, trust in our teammates, play every moment, don’t forecast, and stay where your feet are.

“We were able to kick back a couple of goals, and by about halftime, we were eight points in front. And we kept Mount Evelyn pretty much scoreless after halftime.”

Healesville beat its season rival, Mount Evelyn, 5.10.40 to 2.2.14.

3.8.26; Wandin 14.9.93 def Upwey-Tecoma 7.9.51; Mt. Evelyn 30.11.191 def Woori Yallock 2.1.13; Olinda-Ferny Creek bye Division 1 (Finals Week 1)

■ Seniors: QF Seville 15.10.100 def Pakenham 11.10.76, EF Alexandra 11.9.75 def Belgrave 10.11.71. Reserves: QF Alexandra 10.7.67 def Seville 6.8.44; EF Warburton-Millgrove 9.13.67 def Belgrave 5.5.35. Under 18: QF Seville 22.17.149 def Warburton-Millgrove 4.1.25; EF Yarra Glen 15.10.100 def Alexandra 1.1.7. Women (Div 1): GF Mt. Evelyn 6.11.47 def Upwey-Tecoma 1.4.10. Women (Div 2): GF Warburton-Wesburn 14.10.94 def Emerald 3.3.21. Veterans (Over 35): GF Gembrook-Cockatoo 6.3.39 def Belgrave 5.7.37

Netball

Premier Division (Round 18)

■ A Grade: Monbulk 80 def ROC 45; Healesville 66 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 45; Emerald 64 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 34; Mt. Evelyn 84 def Woori Yallock 20; Wandin 69 def Upwey-Tecoma 44. B Grade: ROC 54 def Monbulk 53; Gembrook-Cockatoo 88 def Healesville 15; Olinda-Ferny Creek 46 def Emerald 45; Woori Yallock 56 def Mt. Evelyn 54; Wandin 68 def Upwey-Tecoma 33. C Grade: Mt. Evelyn 61 def Woori Yallock 28; ROC 33 def Monbulk 23; Emerald 39 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 24; Wandin 50 def Upwey-Tecoma 18; Gembrook-Cockatoo bye. D Grade: Monbulk 33 def ROC 30; Olinda-Ferny Creek 36 def Emerald 23; Wandin 33 def Upwey-Tecoma 29; Mt. Evelyn 39 def Woori Yallock 30; Gembrook-Cockatoo bye. Under 17: Wandin 33 def Emerald 25; Mt. Evelyn 42 def Woori Yallock 30; ROC Blue 43 def Monbulk 15; ROC White bye. Under 15: Pakenham Maroon 27 def Pakenham Gold 15; ROC Blue 47 def Woori Yallock 10; Monbulk Gold 35 def ROC White 21; Monbulk Maroon bye Division 1 (Finals Week 1)

■ A Grade: QF Pakenham 48 def Warburton-Millgrove 42; EF Yarra Glen 52 def Yarra Junction 39. B Grade: QF Pakenham 54 def Warburton-Millgrove 28; EF Yarra Glen 45 def Belgrave 30. C Grade: QF Pakenham 32 def Warburton-Millgrove 24; EF Yarra Glen 43 def Yarra Junction 32. D Grade: QF Pakenham 38 def Warburton-Millgrove 34; EF Yarra Glen 27 def Alexandra 23. Under 17: QF Pakenham Gold 37 def Warburton-Millgrove 17; EF Alexandra 24 def Pakenham Maroon 22

Monbulk’s Tiana Mancarella blocks Kaelah O’Shannassy’s shot in B Grade. (Armin Richter)
Healesville U15 Girls taking premiership three seasons in a row. (Bethany Hutchison / BH Photography)

Bloods play proud at home

With the new netball courts finished, it was great to have Healesville netballers playing back at home with the footballers as they finished off the home and away season with all side taking on Gembrook up at Don Road Complex.

First up was the U18 boys and with a finals spot booked already but a second chance in finals out of reach now the boys were looking to finish of their home and away season in style and go into the finals campaign with confidence.

From the first bounce, the boys were well and truly switched on taking control of the game in the first half.

Score at the main break was Healesville 6.5.41 Gembrook 1.4.10.

In the third quarter, the Brookers started to turn the trend of the game around outscoring Healesville 2.2 to 1.3 but going into the last it still Healesville with a handy 26-point lead.

In the last quarter, the local lads were back on track dominating the final term putting on four unanswered goals for a comfortable win.

Final score: Healesville 11.12.78 to Gembrook 3.8.26.

Best for Healesville: J.Barclay, E.Yates, L. Frazzetto, A.Crossman, C.Bradford, D.Sikorski.

Following on from the U18s. Healesville’s ever-resilient Reserves team were looking to finish off their season on a high note.

This week, they put the call out to get a few more senior players to top Healesville Reserves so as to give Healesville U18s a break and be in the best shape they can going into the finals series.

Although probably a bit under done as far as preparation goes (with a few playing their first game for season) on paper it was a strong looking twos side.

First quarter was a closely contested affair with both sides putting on two majors, and at first break, it was Gembrook with just a onepoint lead.

In the second quarter, it was Gembrook that started to control the game putting on three goals to Healesville one, and at main break, it was Gembrook 5.5.35 to Healesville 3.2.20.

In the third quarter, it was back to a real arm wrestle and despite Healesville having four scoring shots to Gembrook’s two, neither side scored a major, and going into the last, the visitors lead was reduce to 13 points.

Unfortunately for Healesville, and despite a massive effort by all, the home side just ran out of legs and in the end, it was Gembrook 8.9.57 to Healesville 3.6.24.

Despite not winning a game all season, they played with effort and pride week after week and the club couldn’t be prouder and are eternally grateful for their commitment especially to all the U18 boys that helped every week.

Best for Healesville: H.Watkins, M,Renouf, R.Hay, J.Methven, L.English, T.Sund. Over to the netball, Healesville’s ever-resil-

ient B Grade team took to the court for the last time this season.

Despite it being yet another tough day for this amazing group, they finished off their season in the same way they have played it all year.

They had fun, never gave in and fought it out to the very end.

The club couldn’t be prouder of the way this group have gone about everything this season.

Well done girls.

Next up was the A grade who took to the court looking to finish off their season on a high note.

The first half was the Healesville lineup that took control of the game winning every quarter, and at the main break, it was Healesville 32 Gembrook 25.

In the third quarter, the Healesville ladies came out firing putting on nine unanswered goals in the first five minutes of the term to take complete control of the game.

Going into the last, it was Healesville 50 Gembrook 30.

In the last quarter, the game was even up again but the damage was already done and was

the home side coming out on top to finish of their season in great style.

Final score: Healesville 66 Gembrook 45.

Well done on great season ladies.

It was a big step up for Premier Division for this team and you have proven to yourselves and everyone that you well and truly belong in the top competition, and we look forward to building on this next season.

Best for Healesville: K.Ryan, J.Harris, A.Stanley.

On to the last game of the day, this was a must win for Healesville Senior boys so as to secure a finals berth without relying on results of other games.

In the first quarter, it was the visitors with first four scoring shots of the game, but it was Healesville with the first major before Gembrook got their radar working with the next two majors to lead at first break 2.5.17 to Healesville 1.1.7.

In the second quarter, it was Healesville boys with twice the shots on goal as their opponents, but inaccuracy meant it was all tied up at the main break Healesville 6.6.42 Gembrook 6.6.42.

The third quarter was an arm wrestle with Healesville just getting their nose in front late into the quarter before Gembrook scored two goals well and truly into extra time in the quarter to lead going into the last 10.10.70 to 9.7.61. At the 14 minute mark of the last, it was still Gembrook with nose in front by seven points. With their season potentially on the line, the local boys dug deep and played some intense composed football to control the last 10 minutes of the game having the last six scoring shots and eventually getting over the line and securing their spot in the final 5.

Final score: Healesville 13.13.92 Gembrook 112.10.82.

Best for Healesville M.Donegan, N.Mende, C.Frazzetto, A.Rouse, P.Murray, D.Plozza. Next week the finals campaign begins with Healesville U18 taking on Olinda and Healesville Seniors to take on Monbulk with both these games being elimination finals. Both games are on next Sunday at Yarra Junction.

Wandin claims win to end home and away season on high

Wandin rounded out their home-and-away season in strong fashion on Saturday, overcoming a slow start to defeat Upwey by 26 points at the Wandin Recreation Reserve.

Upwey came out firing, booting the first three goals of the match to shock the home side into action.

But from there Wandin steadily wrestled back control, restricting the Tigers to just one more goal in the first half.

Inaccuracy in front of goal was all that stopped the Bulldogs from breaking the contest wide open before the main break.

The third quarter proved decisive.

Wandin finally found their rhythm in attack, piling on 6.1 to swing the momentum firmly in their favour.

The burst gave them the buffer they needed, and while Upwey battled bravely, the damage had been done.

In the end, Wandin 12.19 (91) defeated Upwey 9.11 (65).

The loss also brought an end to Upwey’s 2025 campaign, with coach Stuart Hill overseeing his final game at the helm.

Despite showing flashes of their best, the Tigers were unable to sustain the pressure required against the ladder leaders.

For Wandin, the victory capped off a remarkable season, finishing with a 17-1 record and se-

Daniel Ebbels (8 Healesville) runs with the ball. (Rob Carew: 497915)
Cody Hirst was outstanding for the winners, with Cayden and Chayce Black also among the
best.
For Upwey, Sam Raru battled hard and was named his side’s best player.
Hirst’s

Yarra Glen into semi finals

Yarra Glen had all four netball teams playing in Elimination finals at Yarra Glen on Saturday, whilst the U18 footballers had their Elimination final at Healesville on Sunday.

D Grade netball started the day coming up against Alexandra, a team that they had been beaten by during the home and away season.

The Yarra girls got off to a good start to take an early lead.

Alexandra battled hard and whilst they were able to pressure Yarra Glen into a few mid court turnovers to reduce the lead, Yarra Glen held firm in a goal for goal last quarter to finish up with a hard fought four goal win, 27 to 23.

C Grade faced Yarra Junction and immediately took control to be well in front at quarter time.

The game was played at a high standard, befitting of a final.

Ash Shanks provided great connection in the centre as the Yarra girls maintained a high standard throughout the game.

In a very solid performance, they were able to control the game and met all the challenges the Eagles girls threw at them.

Final scores, Yarra Glen 43 to Yarra Junction 32.

B Grade took on Belgrave, a team they narrowly defeated in their previous encounter.

Ready for another tough encounter, Yarra Glen started with great intensity and with solid ball control they gave their opponents few chances.

In a great 3, 4 quarter performance, they put on a display of the best netball they have played all year.

Final scores, Yarra Glen 45 to Belgrave 30.

Yarra Glen’s A Grade team played Yarra Junc-

tion.

Whilst Yarra Glen had beaten the Eagles girls in both their earlier encounters, they were both very close tussles from the start.

Yarra Glen got off to a handy start to be four goals up at quarter time.

Yarra Junction were proving once again to be

a tough opponent.

In the second quarter, Yarra Glen took control and stretched their lead to 10 goals at half time.

In the third quarter, Yarra Glen continued to dominate and whilst Yarra Junction fought back, Yarra Glen stretched their lead to 13 at the last break.

With the heat out of the game, the last quarter was a goal for goal affair as Yarra Glen won comfortably 52 to 39.

The Under 18s played at Healesville on Sunday and played Alexandra, who had beaten them in their previous two encounters.

The game started in perfect, still and sunny conditions.

Yarra Glen started well with Callum Sanders controlling the ruck and marking strongly around the ground.

At quarter time Yarra Glen had scored 3.1 and kept Alex scoreless.

The second quarter saw the Yarra Glen boys lift their intensity and the tackling pressure forced turnovers that Yarra Glen then took advantage of, kicking a further four goals whilst keeping the Rebels scoreless.

Jake Ferris was providing great dash from half back and with the midfielders working hard, the forwards enjoyed good supply.

In the third quarter, Alexandra managed to score their first goal and restrict Yarra Glen to two goals for the quarter.

Holding a 56 point lead at three quarter, Yarra Glen played with great confidence and with plenty of run in their legs they dominated the last to add a further six goals to finish with a great win, 15.10 to 1.1.

Best Players: Best players: Callum Sanders, Jake Ferris, Alastair Lowrie, Xavier Bosua, Alex Toscano, Hunter Grenfell. Goalkickers, Callum Saunders 4, Lachlan Carter 2, John Pavic 2, Hunter Grenfell 2, Alastair Lowrie 1, Robert Pavic 1, Lachlan Rutherford 1, Kobey Jarvis, Brody Adams 1.

Next week the Under 18s and all four

first Semi

Coldstream women push powerhouse in gutsy grand final

Coldstream Football Netball Club’s senior women’s team entered Saturday’s Division 3 grand final as the clear underdogs, taking on an undefeated Heathmont side that had looked untouchable all season.

But the Cougars refused to be overwhelmed by reputation, delivering a hard-nosed, spirited performance that pushed the premiership favourites to the limit.

While Heathmont ultimately held on to claim the flag, it was Coldstream’s courage, commitment, and character that left a lasting impres-

sion on the Quambee Reserve crowd and no one embodied that more than Sophie Stark, who was deservedly named Best on Ground.

In a contest dominated by pressure and contested ball, it was Sophie Stark’s fearless work in the midfield that stood out.

Time and again, she put her body on the line, drove her team forward, and set the tone with her work around the stoppages.

Her performance wasn’t just outstanding on the day, it was a fitting reward for a season of relentless effort, consistency, and heart.

Facing a side that had beaten them three times already in 2025, Coldstream knew the

odds were stacked.

But they didn’t flinch.

With key contributions across the ground including from forward stars Abbey Broughan and Maddy Stark, and midfield engine Ella Herrmann, the Cougars matched Heathmont for intensity and pressure in a way few teams had managed this season.

Even as Heathmont’s experience began to tell late in the game, Coldstream kept fighting.

Every contest, every tackle, every effort showed the resilience of a team determined to make their mark.

While the scoreboard may not have fallen in

their favour, Coldstream’s 2025 campaign has been a breakthrough year.

From building a strong team identity to making a grand final against the most dominant side in the competition, the signs for the future are overwhelmingly positive.

With stars emerging, leaders like Stark setting the standard, and a finals-hardened squad ready to go again, Coldstream’s women’s program is positioned for long-term success. This year, they showed they can take it up to the best. Next year, they’ll be aiming to be the best.

netball teams will feature in
Finals, played at Woori Yallock on Sunday.
All four of Yarra Glen’s netball teams won at the Elimination finals. (File)
Sophie Stark with her Best on Ground medal. (Supplied)
While Heathmont ultimately held on to claim the flag, it was Coldstream’s courage, commitment, and character that left a lasting impression on the Quambee Reserve crowd. (Supplied)

Premiership perfection

Sunday was the big grand final day for our women’s side.

It’s their first grand finall appearance and only the second year having the team together, with a preliminary the previous season.

The game started just before midday, and the sun was shining out at Powelltown.

The girls had a tough battle against a strong Emerald

The team sprinted onto the field, their hearts racing as they took their positions for the national anthem.

The starting siren sounded, and the anticipation, along with pride filled their air. Game on.

Both teams came out strong, showing their skills and determination right from the first bounce.

However, the Burras quickly established dominance, controlling possession within their half for the majority of the first quarter.

With seven scoring shots to Emerald’s one in the first quarter, the team managed to secure two goals but the remainder as behinds.

Despite these missed chances, the momentum was with the Burras, although they seemed to be filled with nerves in the opening quarter

After a reset, debrief and regain of breath, the team went out to battle again.

This time, a lot more to a Burras style, securing a nice three goals not long into the second quarter.

Emerald snagged 1.1 during the second, but the Burras had a 5.5 (35) to 2.1 (13) at the half time break.

The third quarter was much the same as the first two, with the team keeping the momentum and skills consistent throughout the quarters.

Another six scoring shots with three goals and three behinds, with Emerald only scoring one behind.

The team went into the last quarter a bit more comfortable with a 56-14 lead. But you still can not slow down.

In the last quarter of the match, the Warburton-Wesburn girls delivered a performance that left the crowd buzzing with excitement.

Despite the warm sun beaming directly down into the oval, they still put in maximum effort to bring the flag home.

They demonstrated great skill and determination to get the job done.

The last term was the most exciting with six goals scored, with one notable shot from the pocket by Gabby Woods.

The siren sounded and it spurred a wave of excitement and relief through the ground.

United with the girls, supporters filled the oval celebrating with their loved ones on the clubs’ achievement of an undefeated season and a premiership win.

Medals were awarded to each winning player. Gabby Woods was named the best on ground for her ruck performance.

Goal kickers for the match were: Lily Pagels with four and Scarlett Henderson with three. Emerson Woods, Gabby Woods, Hollie Eckhardt, Jasmine Enever, Sienna Clark, Madi Ward and Sally McIntosh all scored one goal each.

A testament to the individual skill of all players. Reserves football was also played at the same time over at Healesville.

In an elimination final against Belgrave, the Burras took home the win 9.13 (67) to 5.5 (35). They progress onto the next stage. Senior football had a week off due to finishing on top of the ladder.

All of the netball teams had a loss against Pakenham on Saturday and will take on Yarra Glen next weekend.

The Under 18s Football will also face Yarra Glen next weekend.

Healesville locks in U16s second place for season end

Victories over Blackburn and Mooroolbark saw the U16s and U16 Hurricanes secure second spot for 2025.

Assured of second place coming into the round, the U14 Red Devils had a hard-fought draw against Blackburn.

Healesville U16s 3–1 Blackburn

With first place sewn up for Yarra Valley last week, it was down to Healesville or Blackburn for second.

In a twist of fate, they played each other in the last round.

Blackburn turned up ready for a fight and showed early on that this wasn’t going to be easy.

It took a while for Healesville to break the deadlock via Aidan C, but almost immediately Blackburn hit back.

With goals hard to come by and play almost limited to between the 18-yard boxes, it was a relief when Charlie J slotted one in to give Healesville breathing space at the break.

The second half was more in Blackburn’s favour, with Healesville defending deep for much of the first 15 minutes before wrestling it back to a fifty-fifty contest.

A slight defensive error brought the dream of a second trophy in three years a little closer as Aidan C scored again.

Changing the formation to park the bus for the last 10 minutes and swapping Charlie back into goal helped repel several Blackburn attacks and released Cooper B to command the defensive line as he has done so well all season.

The final whistle and jubilation as the U16s’ best season to date culminated in second place and the highest-scoring team in the league.

Healesville U16 Hurricanes 6–0 Mooroolbark

The Healesville side needed victory to finish level on points with Berwick, but an unlikely 38goal margin was required to take top spot.

Evie T opened the scoring in the first half as Healesville created plenty of chances but couldn’t convert.

After the break, the intensity lifted.

Isla C fired home a stunning long-range strike that sparked a late surge.

Mahlea D scored her first goal of the season before Eloise S, Mia K and Sophia B added to the tally.

Attention now turns to the cup, with a semi-final against Knox next week and a potential grand

final the week after.

Healesville U12 Diamonds 4–0 Bayswater

The Diamonds burst onto the scene in the first half.

Emmelia pushed hard into the attack zone, scoring two goals and setting up Annabelle, who ran all the way from defence straight to the post and popped in the cross goal set up from Emmelia for her first goal of the season.

Saskia also took a blinder shot from a midfield free kick that didn’t touch the ground and slotted straight into goals.

In rookie Esther’s first run into attack she missed a goal by millimetres, followed almost immediately by another very close shot on goal.

The second half was close, but the Diamonds’ defence, dominated by the two Schnaedelbach sisters, held out against most attempts from the opposition.

The ball was driving into attack constantly, with Evie, Anja, Audrey and Elodie all making solid goal attempts.

Healesville U14 Red Devils 2–2 Blackburn

Healesville started well but found themselves 1-0 down after 15 minutes with a deflected shot that crept into the bottom corner.

This fired the Devils up, and they responded almost immediately with two well-taken corners from Jade D that were expertly converted by Sia M and Eloise W.

The second half was a bit of scrappy, with counter-attacking football played by both teams.

Blackburn equalised halfway through the term and Healesville were lucky to get away with a point after Georgia C cleared a shot off the line in the dying minutes.

Georgia C, Ruby R and Teah V were sensational all day to be best on ground.

With a second-place finish, two positions up from last season, the Devils show the future of Healesville women’s soccer is shining bright.

Healesville U12 Panthers 3–3 Waverley City

Healesville came out firing in the first half, dictating the tempo and keeping Waverley City under pressure.

In goal, Sol was barely tested.

Up forward, Sem was electric, causing havoc in attack with strong support from Ryan and Flynn, who opened the scoring after a pinpoint corner.

Sem then added two of his own before half time.

At the break, Healesville held a 3–1 lead and

looked in control.

After the restart both sides traded attacking moves, but Milo, Jake, Will and Jack repelled wave after wave.

Waverley found a lifeline from a scrappy cross that spilled on the goal line.

A clearing attempt cruelly went into the Panthers’ own net, giving Waverley a second.

Not long after, a speculative long-range strike looped over Sol to level the game at 3–3.

The Panthers rallied strongly. Ryan and Sem had multiple chances to restore the lead, but shots went agonisingly wide, were saved or rattled the crossbar.

Healesville U11 Ninjas 2–2 Knox Strikers

The team felt confident after their 5–0 win in the season opener against the Strikers, but they had to stomach an early goal against them.

After that, they woke up and took on the opponent with grit and determination.

The equaliser came in the shape of a nice solo by Noah through the middle and a superb strike.

Percy, in goal in the first half, didn’t get much work, but two of the few chances against him went in.

The Ninjas created many opportunities and hit the crossbar once after a great hit by Leo.

All players had lots of touches, including Jaxson up front and Kaspar behind him.

Ollie played superbly as full back, supported by Jacob, Leroy, Levi and Hayden. Kaspar had his first stint in goal and caught the one ball that came his way.

The Ninjas’ backline didn’t allow much past them.

The team’s offense kept creating promising chances, most of them spoiled by the Knox keepers.

Max, however, found a way and equalised again after a late first-half goal by Knox.

Other results:

Healesville U12 White Wolves 1–5 Mooroolbark Burras Goal: Zach C

Warburton-Wesburn takes home the premiership win on an undefeated streak. (Supplied)
The U16s after their win against Blackburn, with coach Lindsay McKie. (Supplied)

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