Tuesday, 12 May, 2026
New mum Celeste saved by support
Mother’s mission rewarded with OAM
Mother’s Day chats at art gallery
Real estate liftout inside
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A Star News Group Publication
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Met Gala wow-factor explained From the red carpet runway of the Met Gala to the hallowed wardrobes of two Dandenong Ranges locals, Michelle Trebilco, also known as Veteran Vamp, and Cat Herine, shared their thoughts and feelings on this year’s fashion statement event. The pair, who are no strangers to thrifting unique clothing and creating something fun and fantastic, had some clear favourites when it came to the celebs who graced the steps of the Met. They agreed that some aced the dress code, Fashion is Art, while others just didn’t “wow” them. Read the full story on page 18
Locals fashionistas Michelle Trebilco and Cat Herine chatted all things Met Gala. (Stewart Chambers: 551555)
Hub at crossroads By Tanya Steele
School and Monbulk, with enrolments dropping as families seek stability elsewhere. “The community has lost its hub,” said Selby House manager Danielle, who is now coordinating programs across multiple venues. Before the closure, the childcare service supported around 40 families. That number has now fallen to about 10. Assistant director Zoe said beyond the logistical challenges, the move has fractured the sense of connection that made Selby unique.
A community hub is gone, childcare is struggling, and no one knows when or even if it is coming back after extensive termite damage forced Selby Community House to close late last year. One of Victoria’s oldest community houses is facing an uncertain future, scattering its vital services across the hills and leaving families without certainty. A cornerstone of the house, Selby Childcare is now operating from Menzies Creek Primary
“We’re fragmented,” she said. Selby Childcare, which offers occasional care for children from 18 months old, provides respite for local parents, but operating from the temporary site has brought extra costs and staffing pressures. Yarra Ranges Council acting director of built environment and infrastructure Vincenzo Lombardi said the council has been supporting the relocation and covering out-of-pocket costs. “We know that being away from the Selby Community House building has had, and contin-
ues to have, an impact on staff, families and the wider community,” he said. Councillors recently endorsed a five-year partnership program for neighbourhood houses, including $45,000 per year for Selby to deliver free and low-cost activities, while State Government informed neighbourhood houses that funding would not be restored in real terms to the sector after months of campaigning by Neighbourhood Houses Victoria. Turn to page 4 to read more
Sam Skolnick | Fletchers Yarra Ranges 0478 061 706 • sam.skolnick@fletchers.net.au
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