Tuesday, 2 June, 2026
Businesses back people experiencing homelessness
Mooroolbark opera singer selected for major comp
MLMC delves into archives for schoolâs 130th year
See Real Estate liftout inside
PAGE 4
PAGE 11
PAGE 15
PAGE 23
A Star News Group Publication
Phone: 5957 3700 Trades and Classifieds: 1300 666 808
Going âall inâ The Memo was bursting with Indigenous pride and culture for this yearâs National Reconciliation Week with engaging musical acts, Truth-telling discussions and community connections. It took place on Thursday 28 May, wrapping up the Yarra Ranges Councilâs massive cultural program. Acclaimed Indigenous hip-hop sensation Baker Boy rocked the stage, an in-depth panel discussion was facilitated by Aunty Lea Jones and Kiernan Ironfield delivered an exciting performance. Students from Worawa Aboriginal College were having an absolute blast in the crowd, while councillors watched on and enjoyed the spectacular show. The 2026 event highlighted the national theme âAll In,â a call to action for every Australian to move beyond the sidelines and take active steps toward unity. âThis yearâs theme for National Reconciliation Week asks us all to commit to reconciliation every single day,â Yarra Ranges Mayor Richard Higgins said. âIf weâre âAll In,â we can start to make positive change.â Baker Boy was a hit among Worawa Aboriginal College students. (Stewart Chambers: 556198)
READ MORE ON PAGE 9
Transport needs By Mikayla van Loon Public transport will be a major focal point for eastern Melbourne councils heading into the upcoming state election. The Eastern Transport Coalition (ETC), representing six member councils including the Yarra Ranges, has launched an election platform to address the needs of a regional population projected to hit 1.2 million by 2031.
ETC chair and Yarra Ranges councillor Mitch Mazzarella highlighted bus reform as a top priority. In the Yarra Ranges, over 90 per cent of residents commute by car, compared to the Greater Melbourne average of 68 per cent. To combat this high car dependency, the ETC is calling for comprehensive bus service reviews, increased frequency, and a 12-month pilot program for a Mount Dandenong bus route. The ETC is also pushing for vital infrastructure
upgrades. A key demand is $80 million to duplicate the Lilydale railway line between Mooroolbark and Lilydale, alongside constructing a new station at Cave Hill to service 3000 new dwellings. Additionally, the ETC is seeking a feasibility study for a Lilydale bypass to divert traffic away from Main Street, transforming it into a safer, greener environment. Active transport is another major pillar of the campaign, with funding sought for key trail and
pathway projects, including the Yarra Valley Trail and RidgeWalk. Cr Mazzarella noted that these trails serve as the final link in public transport, promoting healthier communities while taking cars off the road. The ETC and its member councils are now seeking to engage with MPs and election candidates to secure these vital commitments. READ MORE ON PAGE 3
ŕ¸
ŕ¸
ŕ¸ŕ¸
ภŕ¸
ŕ¸
ŕ¸
ŕ¸ŕ¸
ŕ¸
ภŕ¸
ŕ¸
ŕ¸
ŕ¸
...
12450347-LB23-20
Better Banking. Big Impact. Your local Mt Evelyn team. Real people, real support, real impact in our community. Come and visit our lending specialists in Mt Evelyn, Sam, Ann and Justin.
Call 9737-1833 or visit us at 2/35-39 Wray Cres, Mt Evelyn 12872357-AM23-26
12759201-JR16-25