Tuesday, 16 June, 2026
Demolition approved for 10 sites, one saved
Healesville’s Greg Palmer secures Chelsea Show win
Flynn Kroeger inspires and kicks goals
See Real Estate liftout inside
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A Star News Group Publication
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Girls go undefeated The Outer East’s U16 Girls made history at the 2026 Vic Metro interleague carnival, going undefeated across three matches just two years after suffering 100-point losses. Coached by Josh Plunkett, the team dominated the South East, Mornington Peninsula, and Frankston leagues. Molly Stolarczyk, Grace Rankin, and Ruby Collins starred in the thumping victories. Plunkett highlighted the carnival as a vital pathway to the AFLW, inspiring players to pursue elite football through the Eastern Ranges or community clubs. READ THE FULL STORY ON PAGE 30
The side put together three comprehensive victories over the long weekend. (Supplied)
Not McLovin’ it By Gabriella Vukman With a new McDonald’s destined to arrive in the town of Healesville, locals and visitors alike rushed to voice their thoughts and feelings. From long-winded discussions on Facebook noticeboards to chatter on the street, the news of the approval of planning permits for the fast-food giant has quite literally been the talk of the town. In response to this community dialogue, the Star Mail has conducted a small study to gauge local attitudes towards the food chain’s introduction. Star Mail found that key concerns among locals included an increase in litter around the town, taking business away from local vendors, ruining the country-town feel of Healesville, and health risks associated with the consumption of foods from the major retailer
On the other hand, the benefits voiced by locals included an increased number of jobs for the township, the potential for economic growth in Healesville, and a cheap and convenient food and beverage option for locals and visitors alike. Despite being told when he opened that ‘a Maccas is going to come and take all of your business,’ local resident and co-owner of Monroe’s Burgers and Beers in Healesville Paul Stephens said he was not worried about the new McDonald’s affecting his patronage. “Healesville is a bit of a foodie town.” “Tourists and locals alike come here to seek out and frequent all of our businesses.” “With so many amazing options, I am not sure people are thinking ‘Do I want genuinely amazing food, or an under-sauced Big Mac, with some lukewarm fries?;” he said.
On the other hand, a Facebook post by Sera Blair read, “It’s about a multinational company moving in with big bargaining power they use to keep wages low and profits high.” “Run by franchisees chasing profit only, not locals who also support the local sporting clubs, schools etc. It will take trade away from local businesses.” “We are below the population bracket for a location but it’s the tourist trade they want. That means the town will get bypassed by many people who used to stop and shop in town.” The post went on to voice concerns about the health and environmental impacts associated with the introduction of the fast food giant. READ THE FULL STORY ON PAGE 6 To Maccas or not to Maccas. (Greg Carrick)
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