Tuesday, 31 March, 2026
Yarra Ranges draft budget open for feedback
Yarra Ranges waste charges increase
Hands-on repair programs land in FTG
Real estate liftout inside
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A Star News Group Publication
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Big winner By Shamsiya Hussainpoor The little creatures and mundane things in everyday life that are often overlooked have taken centre stage in award-winning photography by a Ferntree Gully teenager, Liam. The 15-year-old’s photography journey initially began using an iPad, he has now upgraded to a waterproof digital camera, and recently hit a major milestone by winning first and third prizes in photography competitions. His proud mother, Mel, said his love of photography began early. “He was in kindergarten when the preschool teachers handed him his first SLR camera, and he’s loved photography since,” she said. Liam’s unique vision sees the art in everything, whether it’s a coke can, an insect, or something people wouldn’t normally give the time of day. The teen’s insect-themed photo exhibition is on public display until June at The Lightbox Gallery – Horologist Lane, Ferntree Gully Village. Read the full story and see his work on page 16 Liam won third place for this image, which is currently exhibited at the Lightbox Gallery in Ferntree Gully. (Supplied)
Alpacas attacked By Callum Ludwig
Holly was later put down after the vet arrived. Their third alpaca was killed the following night. The attacks left Ms Jelenik’s family, particularly her children, deeply distressed. Having lived on the property for 13 years without incident, Ms Jelenik said the experience was shocking. She was told by a feral dog controller that wild dogs had been a known issue in the Cardinia Reservoir area for years, but access restrictions had limited control efforts.
A Belgrave South neighbourhood is concerned after the brutal deaths of a family’s much-loved alpacas. Davida Jelenik lost three alpacas in two days on her Wellington Road property and believes wild dogs, which may be genetically dingoes, came from Cardinia Reservoir and attacked them. Ms Jelenik said the first incident occurred at 7.30am on Wednesday 18 March, when one alpaca, Jinx, was found dead and another, Holly, severely wounded.
She believes the animals may now be spreading further afield. Melbourne Water, which manages the reservoir, said its primary role is protecting drinking water quality and that wildlife management is a shared responsibility. Monitoring is ongoing in partnership with other agencies. Wild dog management remains complex, as many are genetically dingoes, which have protected status, though lethal control is still permitted in some areas. Authorities encourage landholders to report
incidents and seek advice on mitigation strategies. Neighbouring alpaca owner Lynda Holdsworthy said local hobby farmers are now taking extra precautions, bringing animals closer to homes overnight despite the added workload. Another neighbour reported sightings of dingoes nearby, raising further concern. Residents are being urged to improve fencing and shelter, while avoiding interaction with wildlife to reduce the risk of further attacks. Read the full story on page 10
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