Tuesday, 30 September, 2025
Children living in silent pain, unable to thrive
Forum to bring domestic, family violence into the open
Lilydale’s street fair set to make a return for 2025
See Real Estate liftout inside
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A Star News Group Publication
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A pair of premierships It was a record weekend for the Eastern Ranges as both the girls and boys sides walked away premiership players, showcasing the skill and talent of the east. This historic finish to season was put down to exceptional talent, combined with dedication and commitment. The girls led early in their game, putting on a dominant performance against Dandenong, outplaying them to the very end. The boys had a battle on their hands against opponent Sandringham, with a definite scoring end seeing the game bounce back and forth right until the end. Their 15-point win, however, broke a 12-year drought since the last premiership flag. To read more, turn to page 30 The Eastern Ranges girls side won the grand final in an epic 38-point win, seeing captain Tayla McMillan awarded best-on-ground. (AFL Photos/Jordan Sacchetta)
Today, every day On Monday 29 September, it was National Police Remembrance Day and Blue Ribbon Day, dedicated to honouring the officers who’ve sacrificed their life for the greater good of the community. 2025 has been a significant year for the police force, with the alleged shooting of Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart-Hottart in Porepunkah sending waves of grief and shock throughout the country. The Star Mail has produced a series of articles
on police in the Yarra Ranges, acknowledging those who are no longer with us and those affected by the burdens of police work. We remember the shock death of Senior Constable Tony Clarke for its 20th anniversary and explore the grief felt by a Dandenong Ranges family after their son died serving in 2024. While National Police Remembrance Day is about celebrating and commemorating the lives taken too soon in the line of duty, as well as those who have died outside of the force, it is also a
chance to thank current members. We take a look at the life of Yarra Junction Officer In Charge Andrew Coulson, exploring the ins and outs of police work in the Yarra Ranges. We also tell the stories of those closest to the officers themselves, such as Lilydale’s Kelly Parker, who’s supported her husband during his eight years of service. Police Association Victoria secretary Wayne Gatt said the events in Porepunkah meant this
year’s National Police Remembrance Day was especially significant. “It reminds us of the spectre of self-sacrifice that shadows every police officer and every police family, whenever a member puts on the uniform, sets foot into the unknown in pursuit of justice or puts themselves between good and evil in the protection of those who rely on them.” Read more on pages 11 to 13
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