Tuesday, 24 March, 2026
Outer east teachers go on strike
Alison Healey prepares for MIFGS debut
Kilsyth U16s crowned premiers
See Real Estate liftout inside
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A Star News Group Publication
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Art through the decades Selby couple Gina and Ross Miller are celebrating 50 years of marriage in one of the only ways they know how - through their art. Their retrospective exhibition titled 50 Years On combines a selection of their paintings and sculptures crafted over the decades they have been together. From their travels across South America to their friendships on home soil, the couple delve into the many influences and shapes their works have taken throughout the years. But one thing stays consistent - their never-ending support and encouragement of each other. To read more, turn to page 14
Gina and Ross Miller have been married for 50 years and are celebrating through a retrospective exhibition. (Mikayla van Loon: 542553)
Fuelled by crisis The escalating conflict in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz have sent Australian fuel prices skyrocketing, leaving households, small businesses, and volunteers in the outer east struggling already to cope. Since late February, average petrol prices in major cities have surged by nearly 50 cents per litre, prompting the Federal Government to release 700 million litres of fuel from reserves to combat regional shortages.
Residents in the Yarra Ranges report that the spike is devastating local operations. Nicki Shea, a local farmer, noted that her business has been forced to implement fuel levies to survive. Similarly, Red Relish Cafe owner Ms Cordina warned of a “butterfly effect” where rising freight costs are driving up food prices. The rapid price hikes have sparked allegations of price gouging. In response, ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb confirmed a preliminary investigation into major suppliers, including Ampol and BP, regarding anti-competitive conduct.
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By Oliver Winn
“We are closely watching market conduct... and will not hesitate to act,” she said. The crisis has also triggered panic buying, which Associate Professor Devika Kannan warns “worsens local shortages faster than the underlying disruption itself.” This tension has unfortunately boiled over at service stations, with staff in Wesburn reporting verbal abuse from frustrated customers. Perhaps the most poignant impact is felt by the Upper Yarra Wildlife Rescue Network.
Volunteer Karen Maynard revealed that high costs have forced rescuers, many on fixed incomes, to limit their callouts. “It’s very demoralising,” Ms Maynard said, noting that some volunteers have reached their emotional and financial limit, unable to afford the travel required to save injured animals. Experts urge the public to prioritise essential trips to conserve fuel for critical sectors like agriculture and emergency services.
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