Mail - Lilydale Star Mail - 30th June 2026

On your toes!

The Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre will stage Anthony Shaffer’s edgeof-your-seat thriller Sleuth from 2 to 18 July, helping mark the company’s 50th anniversary.

The plot follows a wealthy mystery writer who lures his wife’s lover into a sinister, psychological game of wits.

Director Ian Frost, shifting from his usual comedies, promises a deceptive experience enhanced by Merinda Backway’s modernised, forced-perspective set design.

The production honours the theatre’s heritage by reviving the same show staged there 25 years ago.

Prepare for “game playing, illusion, elements of uncertainty”.

Read more on page 9

Keep on truckin’

By Gabriella Vukman

The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) has overturned a Yarra Ranges Council decision, retrospectively approving the importation of nearly 40,000 truckloads of fill onto a protected Green Wedge property.

In its 16 June ruling, the Tribunal determined that the massive earthworks at Greenhaven Pastoral Pty Ltd’s property, located at 199 Victoria Road, Coldstream, were primarily intended to improve agricultural production rather than operate as a landfill. The decision grants approval

for approximately 400,000 cubic metres of soil that had already been deposited without prior planning permission.

While VCAT acknowledged there was a legitimate scientific basis for using imported soil to improve moisture retention and pasture production, it found the project had exceeded what was necessary. Tribunal findings revealed excessive fill depths, steep embankments, and works extending dangerously close to the Yarra River floodplain.

Consequently, VCAT ordered substantial modifications. The amended permit enforces

a 10-metre buffer from the floodplain, gentler slopes to prevent erosion, and strict environmental safeguards. These include soil testing, erosion controls, and ongoing monitoring by an EPA-accredited auditor to address the minor contaminants, such as concrete and plastic, found in the soil.

Yarra Ranges Council, which originally refused the permit in October 2024, expressed deep disappointment.

Director of Planning and Sustainable Futures, Kath McClusky, argued the works represent an inappropriate fill disposal operation that threat-

ens the environment.

“We believe it weakens the intent of Green Wedge protections in the Yarra Ranges, and we call on the State Government to provide clear regulatory guidance,” Ms McClusky said, adding that the council is currently reviewing its options.

The landmark ruling establishes that largescale earthworks using imported fill are not automatically classified as landfill if agricultural benefits can be proven, though such projects remain subject to rigorous environmental regulation. Full story on page 6

NEWS Purple bin in firing line

Community members from Yarra Ranges and across Victoria have strongly rejected a proposed fourth kerbside, glass bin, following a recent statewide survey.

The Victorian Government requires local councils to introduce a separate glass-only service by 1 July 2027.

Independent modelling indicates the rollout of kerbside glass bin service would cost a typical council around $4 million to establish, with ongoing operational costs of $27 per household each year.

A recent statewide survey, led by 35 councils, received 25,000 responses with 83 per cent of respondents opposed to the introduction of the fourth bin.

More than 90 per cent of respondents supported expanding Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme to include glass wine and spirit bottles, bringing it in line with other states.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Richard Higgins said that the Yarra Ranges community had its position clear.

“We, and 34 other councils, asked the commu-

nity to share their thoughts on glass recycling in a survey, and more than 2000 Yarra Ranges residents responded,” he said.

“Of the locals who responded, 81 per cent were against the introduction of a fourth kerbside bin, and 83 per cent supported expanding the Container Deposit Scheme.

“This aligns with the council’s position. In the current cost-of-living environment, we cannot justify a costly new bin rollout that will increase household waste charges for every home, when expanding the Container Deposit Scheme would have a greater benefit.

“As one of the largest metropolitan municipalities, it simply doesn’t make sense to add more weekly truck collections, more fuel costs, congestion and emissions for an unnecessary service.

“We should be building on a system that’s already in place and works, rather than introducing a costly and duplicative alternative.

“Council will continue advocating to the State Government on this issue, alongside partnering councils, for a more practical and cost-effective solution for our community and the environment.”

Knox surrender fee challenged

By Tanya Steele

Question time at the last Knox meeting on June 22 saw local cat advocates question the legality and merit behind the council’s surrender fee charge, which is now $146 in this year’s council budget.

Asurrenderfee,whichisallegedlynotafee,was raised as an issue by the outer cat advocacy group Knox AdvoCats at the last Knox Council meeting.

Knox AdvoCats representative Ashlley MorganShae asked Knox Council a series of questions on both the number of pets surrendered to the council and the justification for the council’s animal surrender fee.

“This budget’s animal surrender fee of $146 per animal means that more cats end up on the streets,” she said.

Ms Morgan-Shae said Animal Welfare Victoria had informed her group that local councils cannot charge mandated animal surrender fees.

“A council must accept any dog or cat kept in that district, which is given to the council, charging a fee conflicts with the council’s mandatory duty to accept the animal without conditions,” she said.

Director of City Liveability, Jonathan McNally, said in Knox, since 2025, there have been 31 surrenders relating to 13 cats and 18 dogs, where the fee has been paid, representing 31 per cent of total animals surrendered to council and called the period “not typical” due to a large volume of surrender case.

“During the same period, 67 animals were surrendered without a fee being charged, comprising 54 cats, 12 dogs, and one rooster,” he said.

Ms Morgan-Shae followed by asking how Knox Council’s mandatory animal surrender fee meets the legislative obligations set out by Section 33a, 2025 of the Domestic Animal Management Act 1994, which says that the council must accept surrendered dogs and cats not subject to any conditions.

“The obligation set by the Domestic Animals Act to accept surrendered dogs or cats is not subject to any conditions under the legislation,” she said.

Ms Morgan-Shae said the mandated animal surrender fee pushes more undesexed cats and vulnerable kittens onto the streets, worsening welfare for cats, wildlife, community carers, vets, and rescuers.

“Costs to councils and residents continue to rise by using a failed, punitive method,” she said.

Mr McNally said that the council does not currently charge a mandatory surrender fee, that the fee is prescribed to recover a portion of its costs, the council’s process is currently under review and that in nearly 70 per cent of cases, the person surrendering the animal elects not to pay the fee and the council still accepts the animal.

“Council’s animal surrender fee does not impose any condition on surrender, as council accepts surrendered animals in accordance with the act and does not refuse acceptance solely because a voluntary surrender fee is proposed,” he said.

“Officers have generally applied discretion when applying the fee; however, we can see how there might be some confusion around how council applies this discretion.”

Mr McNally said the fee is an administrative charge associated with the surrender process, rather than a condition precedent to the council accepting the animal under section 33a.

“The legislative obligation to accept surrendered animals remains unchanged and is fulfilled, irrespective of the assistance of the fee,” he said.

“The animal surrender fee reflects the principle that those accessing a specific service contribute toward the cost of providing that service, reducing the overall financial burden on the broader ratepayer base, as identified in my response to your first question.”

A third question was then asked, by another AdvoCats representative, and asked on what legal advice does Knox City Council charge the free and has Knox tested this against the Domestic Animals Act Section 33a - that council must accept surrendered dogs or cats without barriers.

The representative did not speak to the question, and Ms Morgan-Shae spoke on their behalf.

“In our letter from Animal Welfare Victoria, they say that councils can ask for a donation towards rehoming costs, but they cannot have any fee,” she said.

“It must not be presented as a fee at all.”

Mr McNally said again that the council does not currently charge a mandatory animal surrender fee.

“Council accepts surrendered animals in accordance with the act and does not refuse acceptance solely because a voluntary surrender fee is proposed,” he said.

So is it a fee or not? A representative from Animal Aid said they receive surrendered animals through two main pathways: some directly through the shelter and others via local councils, and that they do not receive the fee Knox charges.

“In both instances, they ultimately come into Animal Aid’s care,” the representative said.

“Knox Council charges a fee if they are collecting surrendered animals,” they said.

The Animal Aid representative said the bigger picture for surrendering cats and kittens has been complex.

“Cat surrender intake from Knox has increased by 74 per cent on the prior two-year average, with 100 cats surrendered this financial year to the end of May,” they said.

“Yarra Ranges has remained more consistent with previous years, sitting at around 80 cats per year,” they said.

Animal Aid asks for a surrender donation when an animal is surrendered directly, rather than charging a set fee, which is voluntary, case-by-case and assists with the cost of caring for the animal once it is in their care.

“We understand people may be making difficultdecisions,includingduetofinancialpressure,” said the representative.

The representative from Animal Aid said the bigger issue and pressure comes from unidentifiedanduncollectedcatsandkittensenteringtheir care.

“This financial year, Animal Aid expects to receive more than 3,000 cats and kittens,” they said.

“The most practical things cat owners and carers can do are to desex their cats, keep them safely contained, and ensure they are microchipped and registered with up-to-date contact details.”

In the Yarra Ranges Council, there is no animal surrender fee listed on their website and Director of Communities, Leanne Hurst, said that their surrender process has been in place for many years and that when residents can no longer care for pets, the council acts as the formal intake point for surrendered animals before they are transferred to Animal Aid, with no charge.

“If surrender is the only option, Council manages the intake process and arranges transfer to Animal Aid, Council’s contracted pound facility, in accordance with its obligations under the Domestic Animals Act 1994,” she said.

A media spokesperson from Knox Council said the surrender fee contributes towards the Council’s costs associated with the management of surrendered animals by Animal Aid.

“It doesn’t cover the full cost of Animal Aid’s services, which is currently $210 per animal, or Council expenses such as officer time and transportation of the animal,” they said.

“Before considering surrendering a pet, Council encourages pet owners to contact Animal Aid, as support services and advice may be available to help them keep their pet,” they said.

“If a resident is experiencing financial hardship and is unable to pay the fee, the matter will be reviewed to identify available options, which may include waiving or reducing the fee.”

An RSPCA spokesperson said that it’s been quite a few rough years for people when it comes to the cost of living and its impacts, and they while they haven’t seen an increase in animal surrender numbers, but there have still been effects.

“We know pets have been deeply affected by it,” they said.

“Some people, often through no fault of their own, are having to make unbelievably hard decisions that are impacting their pets.”

RSPCA offers community outreach programs to make things like vaccination, microchipping and desexing more affordable for owners.

“Through our community outreach programs, we see these people and hear their stories, and it’s absolutely heartbreaking, and we’re so pleased we can help through these programs where we can,” said the RSCPA representative.

Flexible spaces coming

Mount Evelyn Christian School Kindergarten was named as one of 63 kinders to receive improvement funding from the State Government.

The $12.3 million Building Blocks Improvement grant program will support 63 kinders across the state in improving their centres, whether that’s upgrading, refurbishing, or renovating.

This includes learning spaces, outdoor play areas and staff spaces and amenities.

“Great kinders need great spaces – and we’re making sure children right across Victoria have them,” Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn said.

“These grants mean more children can learn, explore and play in modern facilities built for them.”

As one of the recipients, Mount Evelyn Christian School Kindergarten will deliver flexible spaces for meetings and smallgroup work.

Other recipients include Keon Park Kinder who will renovate their building, upgrade bathrooms and build private meeting rooms, Virginia Park Child Care Centre will redesign their yard into an outdoor learning space, St Paul’s Lutheran Kindergarten will connect outdoor and indoor spaces, and build an accessible bathroom and Young Street Kindergarten will modernise and build another kindergarten room.

Labor has invested more than $44 million in 361 kinder upgrade projects across Victoria.

For more information, visit schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/building-blocksgrants-improvement.

to improve

thanks to a State Government grant. (Unsplash)

A real stink up!

By Mikayla van Loon

Firefighters were kept busy “leapfrogging” across Lilydale after several bin fires were lit on Friday night, 19 June.

Lilydale CFA captain Warren Davis said the first call came through at about 9pm for a fire on Main Street near Bunnings and the train station.

“After that, we got notified of fires; they were just coming up, bin fire after bin fire, so there were 11 bins in total at several locations,” he said. Mr Davis said two fires self-extinguished, but the remainder required a firefighter response, seeing volunteers go across the suburb, from Beresford Road, to Market, Clarke and Hutchinson Streets.

“We had two fire appliances out at one time, and each time one was putting (a fire) out, the

other one was then going on to the next call, so we were kind of leapfrogging,” Mr Davis said.

“It was a quick response, because we were already around, and once the call came through, we immediately got there within minutes.”

Unfortunately, the last bin set fire to around 10.30pm was located at a medical clinic on the corner of Berwick Street and the Main Street Service Road.

“That fire has done significant damage because it damaged the switchboard, and they’ve got several meters on that switchboard,” Mr Davis said.

“The bin melted, and then the flames set fire to the switchboard, which could be hundreds of thousands of dollars of damage.”

All in all, one street bin, several household recycling bins and three dumpster bins were set

alight. Fortunately, no one was injured.

Mr Davis said as firefighters were responding, there were several people out and about, either walking or driving, who may have witnessed suspicious activity or have dash cam footage.

“Police would like to know if anybody has dash cam footage. There were several cars driving up and down Beresford Road between Cave Hill Road and Anderson Street, between 9.30 and 10.30 on the Friday evening.

“There were also a couple of pedestrians who were walking along that particular stretch of road around that time.”

Anyone who witnessed the fires, with footage or further information, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report at crimestoppersvic.com.au, or contact the Lilydale CIU directly on 9739 2300.

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IN BRIEF

Aerial inspections

AusNetwillbeundertakingaerialinspectionsfrom 29 June to 3 July across several Yarra Ranges and surrounding locations.

These include the following areas: Castella, Cockatoo, Coldstream, Emerald, Gruyere, Healesville, Hoddles Creek, Kinglake, Kinglake Central, Lilydale, Macclesfield, Nangana, Wandin North and Yellingbo.

Inspection overhead will also be conducted in Bayles, Beenak, Beveridge, Caldermeade, Catani, Cora Lynn, Craigieburn, Donnybrook, Iona, Kalkallo, Koo Wee Rup, Koo Wee Rup North, Mickleham, Monomeith, Nangana, Nar Nar Goon, Officer, Officer South, Templestowe, Vervale, Wallan, Wollert and Yannathan.

Helicopters give AusNet a bird’s-eye view, so they can more easily identify and repair any wear and tear on powerlines and poles.

These inspections help support a reliable and safe electricity supply for Victorian communities. Energy and water test kits

Community members can test their homes to make sure they’re getting the most out of their energy and water use, with free kits available at local libraries.

With the 2026 winter season in full swing, energy use is high as households power heaters and use hot water to stay warm.

These kits will assist you in measuring the energy, water use and waste output of your home, community building or business.

They contain a thermal imaging camera, power meter, stopwatch, thermometer and instruction guide, and can be used to see if there are water leaks, high energy items, energy-intensive behaviours or other factors that can contribute to energy bills.

There are currently 22 kits available at local Your Library branches. The loan period is for one week. Find out more at yarraranges.vic.gov.au/ energykits

Nurse-to-patient ratio legislation

The State Government is looking to strengthen nurse-to-patient ratios by introducing legislation backed by a $109.7 million.

This initiative adds 253 full-time equivalent nursing positions to Victoria’s health system.

By reclassifying 26 hospitals, including Maroondah Hospital and The Angliss, the law will permanently increase required staffing levels across general wards, emergency departments, and intensive care units.

These stronger ratios ensure patients receive safer care when needed most.

Additionally, the boost reduces pressure on hardworking nurses, helping prevent burnout and retain staff, while creating valuable new opportunities for graduate and early-career nurses across the state.

Yarra Ranges teen caught in pursuit

Detectiveshavearrestedtwoteenagersandcharged one, following a dramatic pursuit through Melbourne’s east involving two allegedly stolen vehicles.

Police tracked a stolen BMW through Doncaster at about 4pm on 26 June, before its occupants dumped it in Balwyn North and fled in a stolen Kia, winding through multiple suburbs until stopping in Richmond.

While a 17-year-old Mornington Peninsula boy was hospitalised following a police dog bite and remains under guard, facing numerous burglary and theft charges, a 15-year-old boy from the Yarra Ranges area was also arrested nearby.

TheYarraRangesteenwasinterviewedbydetectivesandsubsequentlyreleasedpendingsummons.

Buses not up to scratch

By Callum Ludwig

Calls continue to grow for bus services to improve in the Outer East, with the Outer Melbourne Councils (OMC) alliance (of which the Yarra Ranges and Cardinia councils are members) highlighting the findings of a recent report on improving bus services.

The Victorian Auditor General’s Office (VAGO) ‘Improving Bus Services’ report identified that the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) improve it’s measurements of bus network and performance and to hasten progress and increase transparency of the Victorian Bus Plan.

Their recommendations were partially accepted or accepted in principle.

OMC Chair Cr Stefan Koomen said the findings reflect what councils and communities have been raising for years.

“VAGO has confirmed what our residents experience every day: the bus network in outer Melbourne is not keeping up with the needs of our growing suburbs,” he said.

“Families shouldn’t have to plan their entire day around a bus that only comes twice an hour. “This report shows the real-world impact of slow reform and underinvestment.”

The report found that Melbourne’s bus services do not meet performance targets for passenger numbers, timetable coordination or customer experience.

Targets for passengers haven’t been met for five years, buses have arrived on time at all stops 60 per cent of the time in the last two years and in June 2025, only 68 per cent of passengers transferring between buses and trains could do so within a 5–10 minute window.

Yarra Ranges Melba ward councillor Mitch Mazzarella is the chair of the Eastern Transport Coalition (ETC), which outlined its election platform on Thursday 21 May.

At the time, Cr Mazzarella said there was need for bus reform across not just the Yarra

“The council will continue to advocate for increased frequency and span of hours on our key bus routes across the shire, not just in the

Liwik Barring LCA gets ready

By Oliver Winn

Works across the Liwik Barring Landscape Conservation Area are progressing steadily into 2026, providing better accessibility and keeping the environment healthy.

The uptick in maintenance activity from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) coincides with the onset of the Waring season (winter/autumn).

A storm-damaged bridge at the Menzie’s Creek Nature Conservation Area was completed in April, while last year improvements were made to tracks in the Yarra Bridge Streamside Reserve.

Dandenongs or the Upper Yarra, whether it be the review of some of the more underutilised bus services, whether it be flexi ride, whether it be better connections at train stations,” he said.

“These are all things the council will continue to advocate for, and certainly bus services as a whole will be part of ETC’s advocacy package, and between the five member councils, there’s plenty of work to do.

“The fact we don’t have Sunday buses in Mooroolbark is certainly one of the things I’ve been hearing.”

VAGO’s report highlights the challenges for outer metropolitan areas; the ambitious improvement rate to the current network design and service coverage is not consistent with the Bus Plan in these areas, and many aren’t in reach of any high-quality public transport, let alone a high-quality bus network.

Cardinia Shire Council mayor Brett Owen said many Cardinia Shire residents are already feeling the strain of limited public transport options, with less than 1 per cent of their population having access to high-quality public transport.

“Many bus stops are run down and lack basic amenities such as shelter and seating as well as infrequent services and outdated routes that fail to service new housing developments,” he said.

“Strengthening public transport across Cardinia Shire remains one of our top advocacy priorities in the lead up to the 2026 State Election and beyond, better bus services free up thousands of dollars that families are forced to spend on cars and will also ease access to work, education and essential services for vulnerable residents who may not have the means or ability to drive.

“We are ready to play our part, but we can’t do it alone. We need investment and a shared commitment from other levels of government to plan, fund and deliver a stronger public transport network to make it easier for people to get around Cardinia Shire.”

Meanwhile, walking from Tarrango Road to Britannia Creek Streamside Area in Wesburn will get easier in September with the construction of an access track.

These works all take place within the culturally and ecologically significant Liwik Barring Landscape Conservation Area. Using existing public land along waterways, this conservation area spans multiple townships in the Yarra Ranges.

A DEECA spokesperson said the linking of these areas enables smarter management of the existing reserves.

“Linking these existing reserves through streams and rivers will allow for greater movement of native wildlife, improved water quality and more effective land management.

“It will also allow for the opening up of some areas for low-impact recreation activities, such as hiking, fishing and bird watching,” a DEECA spokesperson said.

Alongside maintenance of numerous manmade structures throughout the conservation area, DEECA workers will also be managing weeds and revegetation.

In the last couple of weeks, the Waring (wombat) season set in. This Wurunjderi season starts and ends when the conditions change rather than on fixed dates.

It’s the coldest and wettest season of the year which sees short days, long nights, lots of rainfall and heavy mist.

A DEECA newsletter for the Waring season stated the weeding work was arduous but nec-

essary in the cold conditions.

“It’s steady work cutting, painting, hand removing- often in damp and muddy conditions. But this timing makes a difference.

“Tackling these species now helps slow their spread before the next growing period,” the newsletter read.

Weed crews have been working across sites including

The Liwik Barring Conservation Area is home to many nationally threatened

and fauna, such as the

Intersection upgrade to begin

A $2.2 million intersection upgrade is set to get underway in Chirnside Park in early July, aiming to improve safety and connection to Wonga Park and Yering.

Yarra Ranges Council will soon begin construction on a long-awaited roundabout at the intersection of Paynes Road and Edward Road.

The project is funded by the Australian Government through both the Roads to Recovery and Black Spot Programs and will improve road safety, reduce the risk of accidents and improve traffic flow.

The council allotted $768,000 of grant funding initially in the 2024-25 budget to begin scope and planning, with further allocations in 2025-26.

With planning, land acquisitions and the relocation of AusNet, Telstra, Optus and NBN services now complete, construction will begin in early July.

Yarra Ranges Mayor and Chirnside Ward Councillor, Richard Higgins, said the roundabout would solve an ongoing problem for local residents and commuters in the region.

“We’ve heard from locals that they wanted improvements to this busy and dangerous intersection, which has been the site of some terrible crashes,” Cr Higgins said.

“I’m pleased that we’ve secured funding to completely redevelop it, replacing the existing T-intersection with a roundabout which will help to manage traffic flow, particularly in peak periods and, most importantly, improving road safety.”

The busy intersection sits on the fringe of Chirnside Park, but acts as a thoroughfare connecting commuters travelling through areas like Wonga Park and Eltham with Lilydale, Yarra Glen and the Yarra Valley.

Traffic data suggest that close to 10,000 motorists pass through it each day.

“Given the volume of traffic that passes through the intersection every day, we’ve designed the project in stages to ensure it never needs to be completely closed during the works.

“For the first couple of stages, from July to September, the intersection will remain open with

a single lane, and traffic management to guide motorists. You’ll still be able to pass through in all directions, but we encourage you to allow extra time.

“In later stages, from October, we’ll need to partially close the intersection in some directions at times and will have detours in place.

“We’ll be keeping nearby residents updated

with SMS messages and letters, getting in touch with nearby businesses and notifying emergency services of the changes. And there will be plenty of signage on site to help direct drivers, to help minimise disruption during construction.

“The end result will provide a safer and less stressful experience for locals and for people travelling in and through Chirnside Park.”

Emergency services will have full access through the intersection during all stages of construction.

A project overview can be found by visiting: yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Our-services/ Planning-building-and-development/Council-projects-works/Edward-Road-and-PaynesRoad-Roundabout-Construction

40,000 truckloads approved

By Gabriella Vukman

Almost 40,000 truckloads of fill imported onto a Coldstream Green Wedge property without planning approval have been given the green light by the Victorian Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

In its decision on 16 June, the Tribunal overturned Yarra Ranges Council’s refusal, finding the earthworks were primarily intended to improve agricultural production, rather than serve as a fill disposal operation.

The decision grants approval for earthworks equivalent to around 40,000 truckloads of fill that had already been imported without planning permission.

While VCAT found parts of the project had gone too far, including excessive fill depths, steep embankments and works extending too close to the Yarra River floodplain, it concluded that the earthworks were undertaken primarily to improve agricultural production rather than operate as a landfill.

The council had argued the works were effectively a fill disposal operation that threatened the environmental and agricultural values of the Green Wedge.

VCAT disagreed, finding there was a legitimate scientific basis for using imported soil to improve moisture retention and pasture production, provided the project was significantly modified and subject to strict environmental conditions.

The central question before the Tribunal was whether Greenhaven Pastoral Pty Ltd (the applicant in the case), the owner of the farming property at 199 Victoria Road, Coldstream, was improving farmland or simply disposing of fill.

After expert evidence, VCAT concluded the primary purpose of the earthworks was agricultural.

The Tribunal accepted that imported fill could

improve soil moisture storage and rooting depth for fodder crops and grazing, but found the project had exceeded what was reasonably necessary.

Some areas had been overfilled, creating steep batters and extending unnecessarily close to the Yarra River floodplain.

VCAT ruled these landforms offered little agricultural benefit and ordered substantial changes before the works could be completed.

The permit now requires shallower fill, gentler slopes and a ten-metre buffer from the Yarra River floodplain to reduce environmental risks and improve the final landform.

For every one metre the land rises, it must extend five metres horizontally, and instead of steep embankments, the earthworks must have broad, gradual slopes that are more stable, easier to farm, and less prone to erosion.

The fill cannot come within ten metres of the edge of the floodplain, which is defined by

The wine that won the trophy!

By Gabriella Vukman

The Yarra Ranges starred at the Victorian Wine Show, with the region’s very own Oakridge Wines taking home the Victorian Premier’s Trophy after winning best wine of its region in the 2025 Victorian Wine Show.

The winning drop belonged to the 2023 Oakridge Wines 864 Funder and Diamond Drive Block Chardonnay from the Yarra Valley.

Selected by a panel of wine industry experts, including Joshua Cooper from the Macedon Ranges, Matt Harrop from the Strathbogie Ranges, Steve Flamstead from the Yarra Valley, and Jen Pfeiffer from Rutherglen, Chair of the Judges at the Victorian Wine Show, Joshua Cooper said the wine was one of a kind.

“The judging represents the best of the best of the Victorian wine industry, from diverse regions and varieties that represent the depth and breadth of this great state for winegrowing and making,” he said.

“The 2023 Oakridge Wines 864 Funder and Diamond Drive Block Chardonnay was a stand-out wine from a great vintage, which showed varietal typicity combined with intense and sustained depth.”

Senior Winemaker at Oakridge Wines Tim Dexter said it was great to receive the award, after being in contention for it since 2023.

“Last year we won the Victorian Wine show but didnt quite make it to the Premier’s Trophy, so this year is the first win and it is great,” he said.

“It is awesome recognition and great for the team. A lot of hard work goes into what we do so its always nice to get some love.”

Mr Dexter expects more traffic now that Oakridge has officially won the award.

“We got a lot of traction at the award, and right now is an otherwise pretty quiet time of year, so all of the extra foot traffic is very welcome,” he said.

In terms of the wine that won, Mr Dexter noted it is one of Oakridge’s top-tier wines under their block 864 banner.

“The wine that won is very iconic and a special site.”

“The single vineyard it came from has a well-established pedigree and history and is just the right grape growing location,” he said.

Mr Dexter attributes the winning wine’s success to “The combination of an awesome site” , attention to detail in the vineyard, and guidance from top-tier winemaker Dave Bignall.

Despite being ranked against other local wineries in the Yarra Valley Wine Show, Mr Dexter said there is a sense of collegiality among the win-

the 67-metre Australian Height Datum (AHD) contour.

AHD is Australia’s standard reference for measuring elevation above sea level.

The Tribunal required the earthworks to stay at least ten metres away from the part of the property that could be affected by flooding, providing a buffer to protect the Yarra River floodplain and reduce environmental impacts.

The Tribunal also examined concerns about the imported material itself. Small amounts of concrete, bricks, timber, plastics and pipes were found throughout the fill.

While VCAT considered contamination risks manageable, it ruled that excessive inert waste should not be accepted as agricultural fill and must instead be treated as municipal or industrial waste.

To address environmental risks, the permit includes strict conditions requiring soil testing, environmental management plans, erosion and sediment controls, removal of excessive inert waste and ongoing monitoring by an EPA-accredited environmental auditor.

VCAT concluded these safeguards would adequately protect water quality, the Yarra River floodplain and the surrounding environment while allowing the land to continue supporting grazing and fodder production.

The Yarra Ranges Council has expressed strong disappointment with the decision.

Director of Planning and Sustainable Futures, Kath McClusky told Star Mail, “On Tuesday, 16 June, VCAT made a decision to allow a retrospective permit for 400,000 cubic metres of fill – roughly 40,000 truckloads - on a Green Wedge zoned property in Coldstream.”

“The works had been undertaken without a permit, and the application sought retrospec-

tive approval for these significant earthworks,” she said.

“Council refused this permit in October 2024, and the applicant subsequently appealed this decision to VCAT.”

According to Ms McClusky, the Council’s position has been, and remains, that the earthworks represent an inappropriate use of the land.

“They are not associated with the agricultural activities conducted on the site and appear to have been undertaken for the purpose of fill disposal,” she said.

“We have serious concerns about the potential impacts of these works, including water contamination, loss of agricultural land, soil degradation and impact on the environment as a result of these works.”

Ms McClusky said the Council is deeply disappointed in VCAT’s decision.

“We believe it weakens the intent of Green Wedge protections in the Yarra Ranges, and we call on the State Government to provide clear regulatory guidance in respect to fill disposal in Green Wedge land.”

“Council is currently reviewing the decision and our options regarding the decision.”

The ruling is expected to become a significant planning decisions for Green Wedge land in Victoria.

It confirms that large-scale earthworks involving imported fill are not automatically considered landfill if they can be shown to primarily support agricultural production.

At the same time, VCAT made it clear that environmental impacts, landscape outcomes and the quality of imported material remain critical planning considerations and can be tightly regulated through permit conditions.

eries of the Yarra Ranges.

“We are a very collaborative region, and we all gather together and help each other,” he said.

“We don’t see each other as competitors.”

“Together as part of the Yarra Valley, we are one brand, one dream, and one team.”

For Mr Dexter, the success of any winery in the region is a success for the region as a whole.

“If the Yarra Valley does better, we all do better,” he said.

The Premier’s Wine Trophy is an initiative of the Victorian Wine Show and is held with the support of the Department of Premier and Global Victoria. This award is based on a taste-off between the winning wines from each of Victoria’s regional wine shows in 2025.

Selected Parliamentarians, including the Minister for Agriculture, Michaela Settle, conducted their own separate tasting under wine show conditions with guidance from wine show judges to select the Premier’s Choice Award.

Mr Dexter said, “It was good to chat to local members and put our case forward for wine and its importance to our region.”

“It is great that politicians understand its importance, and that we can tell our story because it is tough out there at the moment, and we can all use some help.”

The Premier’s Trophy sits proudly in the entrance to Oakridge Wines’ cellar door next to a bottle of the winning 2023 Oakridge Wines 864 Funder and Diamond Drive Block Chardonnay.

Despite a pending changeover of ownership, Mr Dexter said Oakridge will continue on with its winemaking as per usual.

“There have been several ownership changes for our brand in the past, and despite this, our wine has remained of really high quality,” he said.

“We are always looking to get better, and there are always plenty of opportunities under new ownership.”

Volunteers recognised

By Mahlea Douglas

Late last month, the 2026 Casey Community Awards took place, commemorating locals for their hard work and dedication within their communities.

Casey MP Aaron Violi hosted the event for residents throughout the electorate.

President of the Mooroolbark Soccer Club (MSC), Stuart Milne, received an award.

“It was humbling and greatly appreciated. Volunteers generally do not become involved for recognition, and most of the work happens quietly behind the scenes,” he said.

“Although my name was on the award, I see it as recognition of the entire Mooroolbark Soccer Club community. Our coaches, team managers, committee members, grounds team, hospitality workers, administrators and parents contribute thousands of hours every year.

“Nothing achieved at the club is the work of one person.”

Mr Milne has a strong family connection within the club. Both his parents participated in volunteer work for MSC when he was young.

“My involvement really grew through firstly from my dad first moving to Mooroolbark from England back in the ‘70s and then playing for the club in the late ‘70s, early ‘80s. Then myself and my two brothers playing for the club and now my family and my children playing football.”

During Covid, experienced members formed a group to help smoothly exit lockdown, gradually moving Mr Milne into coaching.

“It was never a case of setting out to hold a particular position; it was more about continuing to step forward when the club needed help.”

Volunteering is a crucial part of Mr Milne’s life. His pride in MSC is something he holds close to his heart.

“Seeing children form friendships, become part of a team and develop a lifelong love of football is particularly rewarding.

“Results on the field are great, but the real success is creating an environment where people feel safe, supported and that they belong.”

Andrew Jeffrey received his award for volunteering with the Kilsyth Community Action Group (KCAG). He is part of many projects, including the Kilsyth Festival.

“When I retired, I was intent on maintaining my mental agility and transferring my skills and life experiences in paid employment to a community setting at this new phase of my life,” he said.

After attending multiple meetings with KCAG, he noticed how diverse their projects and future plans were, giving him an impactful way to contribute.

“My voluntary work has given me new outlooks on life. I appreciate even more than the importance of being ‘connected’ . I enjoy working

with people who are different from me: whether by their age, background, life experiences, views or culture.”

Volunteering with Japara Community Hub in Kilsyth, as well, Mr Jeffrey said one of the most rewarding projects he has been part of was a conversational English program designed to support migrants and refugees.

“The most satisfying project to date has been my involvement in their ‘Friendly Voices’ project, which invites new migrants settling in Kilsyth and neighbouring suburbs to join one-onone conversational English sessions with Japara volunteers,” he said.

Mr Jeffrey believes volunteering is something that more people should get involved in and that it’s an excellent way to make a difference and grow connections.

“I would say to a potential volunteer that giving your time and talent, however modest that might be, makes you feel good about yourself and benefits others.”

Treasurer of the Lilydale Rotary Club Judith Shiel also received an award for her contributions.

Mrs Shiel mentioned being recognised with this award makes her feel “honoured and esteemed.”

Originally, her husband was a member, but after accompanying him to meetings, she decided to partake.

Since joining, Mrs Shiel volunteered her time as a bulletin editor and attendance officer.

“I feel satisfied when the club records are kept up to date. Keeping the club running smoothly,” she shared.

In 2020, Mrs Shiel became the club’s treasurer, also finding time to help out with projects where needed.

In July 2027, Mrs Shiel is set to become the Rotary Club’s secretary.

Mr Violi said it was an honour to recognise so many wonderful volunteers from every corner

of our region.

“Our community owes its strength and warmth to the incredible people who quietly show up every day and give selflessly without ever asking for anything in return.

“We have such a strong spirit of volunteerism at the core of our community, and these awards are a small way to give back and say thank you to those who give so much of themselves to others,” Mr Violi said.

The list of recipients also included:

Ms Lael McAvoy - Lilydale Judo Club

Mrs Margaret Battle - Rotary Club of Lilydale

Mr Brad Bell - Lilydale Junior Football Club

Mr Jack Bowles - Interchange Outer East

Mrs Janene Davison - Lilydale Football Netball Club

Miss Erika DePace – Mt Evelyn Caterpillar Guides and Mt Evelyn Lady Bug Guides

Mrs Cheryl Forrest - Catalyst Church Lilydale

Mr Shaun Goodwin - Croydon Ranges Hockey Club, Kilsyth Cricket Club

Mrs Nadia Jefferys - Lilydale Anglican Church

Mrs Felicity Kusanke - Holy Fools

Mrs Amanda Lakeland - Lilydale Junior Football Club

Mr Chris McAleer - Veterans for Fishing

Mr Neil Mitchell - Holy Fools, Good Gracious Network

Mrs Mel Morgan - Lilydale Junior Football Club

Mr Ray Murphy - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Show

Mrs Nicole Neagle - Lilydale Junior Football Club

Mr Ben Neagle - Lilydale Junior Football Club

Mr John O’Donohue - Lilydale RSL Subbranch

Mrs Briony Polkinghorne – Mooroolbark Cricket Club

Mrs Jill Sebire - Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead

Mr Jimmy Slattery - Lilydale RSL Sub-branch

Mr Mark Southall - Yering District Archers

Mrs Jacqueline Thresher - Mooroolbark Salvation Army

Projects shortlisted for funding

Yarra Ranges Council is urging community members to help secure funding for park projects in Kilysth and Mooroolbark, with Pick My Park voting now open.

A project to create a bike jump park for young people at 150 Cambridge Road Kilsyth, and another to transform the old McDermott Avenue Reserve netball courts into a safe community green space have been shortlisted for the Victorian Government’s Pick My Park program.

Voting is now open until 3 August. Community members must be 16 years or older to vote on the Victorian Government’s website.

Yarra Ranges Deputy Mayor Gareth Ward said each of these projects would have a tremendous impact on developing community parks.

“McDermott Avenue Reserve and 150 Cambridge Road are community spaces in the Yarra Ranges that have real potential, but need a helping hand,” he said.

“At 150 Cambridge Road, we have started landscaping works through community plantings, but the space still lacks infrastructure to make it a place young people will want to explore, while McDermott Avenue Reserve needs a kick-start by removing the former netball courts so we can start making it into a usable park.

“If we can win Pick My Park funding, we’ll be able to turn a disused site in Mooroolbark into a safe and inviting park for community or create an area for 150 Cambridge Road that will encourage young people to get active outdoors.

“We think these projects have real promise, but we need the community’s help to secure funding.

“Voting is now open, and we’d love to see as many community members involved as possible.

“All it takes is visiting the survey website and voting for three park projects in Melbourne’s eastern region. Community members can support both our local projects if they wish.”

In total, 17 park projects were selected across Melbourne’s eastern region, located in the Knox City Council, Manningham City Council, Maroondah City Council, Monash City Council, Whitehorse City Council and Yarra Ranges Shire Council local government areas.

Visit: engage.vic.gov.au/pick-my-parkvote-eastern to learn more about the projects and cast your vote.

Bonfire Céilí brings smiles

A local not-for-profit recently hosted a Sunday afternoon of live music, giggles and traditional ceilí dancing for families in Mt Evelyn.

Hosted by a newly fledged not-for-profit community organisation, Celtic Links Inc, families gathered in the Mt Evelyn Community Hall to be stepped through a set list of traditional ceilí (pronounced kay-lee) dances with music played by musicians from across the Yarra Ranges on 28 June.

Celtic Links Inc committee president Mary Sullivian said the afternoon was a great success and said the group were pleased to see the Yarra Ranges Councillor Tim Heenan along, as the local council had made the day possible with a monthly community grant.

“A ceilí gives such great exercise and are so good for heart, mind and body,” she said.

Mt Evelyn families and friends gathered to stave off the chill of winter and learned several dances from the Siege of Ennis to the Bonfire dance, with a snack break in between.

Ms Sullivan, a Kallista resident, said she has always been interested in traditional Irish culture and has been bush and ceilí dancing for many years, as well as more formal Irish dancing for at least ten years.

“Ceilí dancing is inclusive and for everyone, and a good opportunity to get off devices,” she said.

Musically, the afternoon provided traditional tunes as both professional and casual players lined up to play their specialised instruments like the bodhrán (BOW-rawn) drum and the tin whistle.

Session player on the day, Von Hampton,

an Upwey musician, said the musicians had a great time.

“The members were all members of the local community, and some of our band met for the first time on Sunday,” she said.

‘We shared some tunes and had a great time.”

Yara Ranges Councillor Tim Heenan gave the local group accolades and said congratulations on the day.

“It warms my heart today to see so many families here,” he said.

“It particularly warms my heart to see so many young persons here today with no technology in their hands, the bands coming together, and some of the players up there also on the younger side.”

He welcomed the group back to Mt Evelyn anytime, as he celebrated being a resident in Mt Evelyn for 40 years to the day.

“I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate something very special to me today,” he said. “

“Not only have I had the honour of being a councillor for the last 17 years, but today, 40 years to the day, I celebrate living in Mount Everlyn, a community which I’m very proud of.”

Ms Sullivan said Celtic Links is planning to hold a few further ceilís across the Yarra Ranges every year and is leading up to a bigger festival, and hopes to network across the local musicians, artists and community groups to hold events.

“We want to explore Celtic traditions and bring people together with music and dancing,” she said.

A gripping game of illusion

By Mikayla van Loon and Mahlea Douglas

The Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre is set to take on English playwright Anthony Shaffer’s Sleuth, described as “an edge-of-your-seat thriller” , for season three.

Andrew Wyke, a highly successful mystery writer with a strong passion for inventions and game playing, lures his wife’s lover, Milo Tindle, to his home in the English countryside.

Milo arrives in an attempt to claim Andrew’s wife, Marguerite. Leading to a gripping back-andforth game, making the audience try to decipher what Andrew is imagining and what is reality.

This play is different from the typical style director Ian Frost has been part of in the past.

“It gives me an opportunity to stretch my creativity from the comedies that I more commonly focus on into that mystery thriller genre,” he said.

“The play revolves around elements of game playing, illusion, elements of uncertainty, and that the key characters try to outwit each other.”

This won’t be the first time Lilydale has staged Sleuth, a fitting tribute for the 50th anniversary of

the theatre.

“This particular show was performed 25 years ago and directed by the current president, Alan Burrows, so it’s an opportunity for us to celebrate some of that heritage, some of that history of the theatre,” Ian said.

The set and costume design are a massive feature in the show. Set designer Merinda Backway has gone for a modernised look, capturing how they honour the past while still updating the show from the performance 25 years ago.

Purposefully designed, the set has elements of forced perspective, likely inflicting uncertainty.

“We’ve built in a rake (slope) to the stage, and so characters at the back of the theatre, away from the audience, will appear larger in the space than those that are downstage.”

Those “elements of manipulation in the perspective” were integral to the creative plan and the theatrical experience, with Ian praising Merinda for her vision.

The cast has a diverse range of experience. Some have performed at this theatre previously, whereas others have had experience elsewhere.

Violin virtuoso Arielle leaves Wandin spellbound

By Oliver Winn

A young violinist left her audience awestruck with a magical performance at Wandin’s Winter Solstice Candle Light Concert on 17 June.

On the stage of the Wandin Community Hub, 16-year-old Arielle from Yarra Junction delivered an enchanting show for 60 locals and left them calling for more.

Hosted by the Rotary Club of Wandin, the concert aimed to provide a captivating arts experience for locals while bringing people together.

Rotary Club of Wandin member Jeanette Jensen said the audience’s fascination was only enhanced by the warm candlelit atmosphere that flickered throughout the room.

“I think what was really amazing was most people didn’t think it would be so beautiful. Because we had 500 candles, the atmosphere was just really beautiful… it sort of glowed and flickered around the room,” Ms Jensen said.

Arielle said being able to share the “magic of music” was a “joyful and fulfilling” experience she’ll never forget.

“Afterwards brought such satisfaction and gratitude, seeing that the audience enjoyed it as much as I did playing it,” she said.

Arielle is a virtuoso violinist whose impressive resume includes playing in the Melbourne Youth Orchestra and the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic Orchestra.

She kicked off her performance with the moving classical piece et Rondo Capriccioso by SaintSaens, which she described as a perfect “blend between emotion and bravado”

Soon after, she pivoted to more popular numbers, performing violin covers of AC/DC’s Thunderstruck, Golden from Kpop Demon Hunters, ABBA’s Dancing Queen and Confident by Demi Lovato.

Arielle’s technical prowess was matched with an exciting stage presence as she got the audience to stamp their feet during AC/DC’s Thunderstruck.

“It’s definitely special because how often does a violinist get to play Thunderstruck?” she said.

While the show was a resounding success, Arielle said she definitely felt the nerves beforehand.

“I am nervous before every show that I do, but it’s never something I try to manage until a few days before the concert, because it is necessary to feel pressure to push you to work hard,” she said.

The Winter Solstice Candle Light Concert came off the back of the Wandin Rotary’s Creative Artisan’s Village in May. It’s part of its effort to cultivate a thriving arts culture in the Yarra Ranges.

Ms Jensen said she wanted to bring people together and address increasing rates of loneliness in the region.

“It’s taken us a hundred years to build our community… but having a community behind you, [it’s being lost].

Ian said that experience added to the “richness of performances” , and many discussions were held around bringing these characters to life.

“Some of the characters that they are performing are anything but lovable, and so that has been a particularly interesting challenge for those actors to be able to drop their own personas and to embrace what we realise will be the audience questioning their motives, their intentions, their actions.”

Ian wants the audience to question “whether game playing is fun and frivolous, jolly and jovial, or perhaps sneaky and sinister.”

Some situations may be fun, but manipulation between characters is something they chose to highlight throughout the show.

Everyone has worked together to create a feeling of revelation, intending to send the audience in one direction, only to create elements of surprise.

“Look for those surprises and embrace it, try and work out what’s going on, who’s manipulating who within the game,” Ian said.

“Everyone sits at home, and all their friends are online, and I don’t call that friendship. I call that just occupying your time a little bit,” she said.

According to the Yarra Ranges Council’s 2024/25 Profile of Mental Health and Wellbeing report, more than one in five adults are lonely in the region.

Loneliness is known to have a direct impact on psychological distress, and the Yarra Ranges has one of the highest rates of psychological distress in the state.

Having regular social contact with friends and family improves overall wellbeing. According to Ms Jensen, members of Rotary (and any other social group) are happier because they’re connected.

“They’re all very happy, and I think the reason why they’re happy is they know every Wednesday, they all do something special.”

Ms Jensen focused on arts-adjacent events due to the arts’ ability to spur passion and emotion among the community.

“The arts, it’s for everything. It’s for passion, mental health. It’s something that gets you into a creative space, it brings out the better in you,” she said.

“I believe for us to love and learn, we have to be together, so the Creative Artisans Village with Arielle was all about bringing people together.”

Men’s Sheds come together

Berwick’s Akoonah Park was last week’s stop for the Victorian Men’s Shed Roadshow, bringing together shedders from near and far at the strong local club.

The roadshow is a Men’s Shed event designed to foster camaraderie and share knowledge across a region of Men’s Sheds.

Melbourne’s east and south-east are home to a strong network of sheds, with about 150 delegates, including Frank Pickering, Peter Gray and Denis Hough from Mooroolbark Men’s Shed, coming together on Friday 19 June.

The roadshow is designed to educate and support shedders on a range of topics, including men’s health and ongoing projects in the wider community.

This roadshow welcomed author and international men’s health speaker John Toomey, along with Gippsland Jersey co-founder Sallie Jones.

The executive of the Victorian Men’s Shed Association was also welcomed on the day, alongside the many local shedders.

Berwick MP Brad Battin joined the event and formally kicked off proceedings. Casey Mayor

and Cardinia

New judges welcomed

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Continuing its long tradition of attracting acclaimed literary figures, the Woorilla Poetry Prize has appointed two respected writers as judges for this year’s competition.

Toby Fitch will judge the Judith Rodriguez Open Section, while Maxine Beneba Clarke has been appointed judge of the Louise Rockne Youth Section.

Mr Fitch was born in London and raised in Sydney, he’s a senior lecturer in creative writing at the University of Sydney.

He is the former poetry editor of Overland and the author of nine books of poetry, including Sydney Spleen and Or: An Autobiography, as well as the academic monograph Aussi/Or: Un Coup de des Down Under.

His poetry and scholarship have received numerous awards, including the Grace Leven Poetry Prize, the Charles Rischbieth Jury Poetry Prize and the Leonie Kramer Award.

As he prepares to assess this year’s entries, Mr Fitch said he would be looking for originality alongside strong craft.

“I’m looking for poems that pay attention to language, its many possible meanings, its musicality; poems that dovetail form and content; poems that capture how thoughts move and make meaning of events; poems that attend to what’s actually happening in the world; and above all, poems that surprise - something strange in any of the above that makes me think and see things differently or anew,” he said.

Mr Fitch is currently writing a book with the working title Of Endlings and Other Poems while living on unceded Gadigal land with his partner, three children and a staffy.

The Woorilla Poetry Prize has supported poets for more than three-decades and provides entrants the opportunity to have their work published in the Woorilla Poetry Collection of Poems.

This year’s competition opened on 1 June and will close on 30 September, with winners to be announced at a hybrid awards ceremony on 22 November.

The competition has built a reputation for attracting outstanding judges throughout its history.

From the late Judith Rodriguez, described as an academic, poet and passionate defender of human rights who supported Woorilla through its fledgling years, to notable poets including Kevin Brophy, Alicia Sometimes, Andy Jackson, Emilie Collyer, Emilie Zoe Baker, Nathan Curnow and Gaylene Carbis, the prize has continued to

Mountain Timbers in Kilsyth has long been a trusted name for quality timber, building supplies and expert service throughout Melbourne’s eastern suburbs. The business is now entering an exciting new chapter, with Jarrad Peters and Chris Shambrook recently taking over the company, bringing with them a combined 40 years of experience in the building and timber industry.

Both Jarrad and Chris are family men with young families of their own, giving them a strong appreciation for the importance of community, local connections and supporting other families and businesses across the region.

Their extensive knowledge and passion for the trade place Mountain Timbers in strong hands as they continue the tradition of providing outstanding service to local builders, tradespeople and home renovators. Both Jarrad and Chris understand the importance of quality products, reliable advice and building lasting relationships with customers and the wider community. Serving customers across the region, Mountain Timbers has earned a reputation as a trusted destination for everything from structural timber and decking materials to builders hardware and construction supplies. Whether tackling a large building project or a weekend renovation, customers know they can rely on the experienced team for practical support and expert guidance.

Jarrad and Chris are committed to preserving the values that have made Mountain Timbers a respected local business while also bringing fresh ideas and energy to its future growth. Their vision is focused on supporting local trades, helping homeowners bring their projects to life and ensuring the business remains a valuable part of the Kilsyth community for many years to come.

The dedicated team at Mountain Timbers continues to be one of the company’s greatest strengths. With years of experience and a strong understanding of the industry, staff members work closely with customers to recommend the right products and solutions for every project, no matter the size or complexity.

strengthen its standing.

Those judges have helped shape the Woorilla Poetry Prize into a highly prestigious event that now attracts entries from across Australia and overseas.

Ms Clarke is the author of more than 14 books for adults and children, including the ABIA and Indie Award-winning short fiction collection Foreign Soil.

Her works also include the bestselling memoir The Hate Race, the self-illustrated picture book When We Say Black Lives Matter, the CBCA Honour Book The Patchwork Bike and the poetry collections Carrying the World, How Decent Folk Behave, It’s the Sound of the Thing: 100 new poems for young people and Beautiful Changelings.

She was the inaugural Peter Steele Poet in Residence at the University of Melbourne from 2023 to 2025.

Ms Clarke said she would be looking for poems that demonstrated confidence, skill and emotional impact.

“I’ll be looking for a poem in any style that is moving, ambitious, engaging, structurally and lyrically accomplished, and sure of voice,” she said.

She also highlighted the value of poetry for younger writers.

“In an increasingly digital, fast-past world, poetry allows young people a brief moment to stop, contemplate, listen, craft, and feel,” Ms Clarke said.

The competition is open via Submittable, and entrants can visit www.worilla.org.au for more information.

As the industry continues to evolve, Mountain Timbers is embracing new opportunities while staying true to its local roots. Reliable delivery services, a comprehensive product range and a commitment to customer satisfaction ensure the business remains a trusted partner for builders and renovators alike.

With Jarrad Peters and Chris Shambrook at the helm, and a combined 40 years of industry experience behind them, Mountain Timbers is well positioned to build on its proud legacy and continue serving the community with the quality and service it has become known for.

Spike the Echidna coming

Yarra Ranges Council is thrilled to bring Spike the Echidna to Montrose Town Centre these school holidays.

Montrose Town Centre has long played host to kids and families of the area, enjoying theatre, puppetry and comedy. This event like many at Montrose Town Centre is expected to sell to capacity with enthusiastic community members.

Combining shadow puppetry and slapstick, Spike is an interactive experience for a family audience.

Spike is the story of an Echidna, who is stolen from his nest, and hatches from his egg far away from home. A young girl finds him. She is playing alone in the bush because she is being bullied by other children. He has no spikes yet and she doesn’t know what kind of creature he is. She tries to work out where he comes from, but accidently puts him in dangerous situations – in the nest of a crocodile, an emu and a turtle. He feels frightened, rejected and alone. As the story unfolds, she helps him to discover where he belongs, and he helps her to find her own “spikes” and stand up to the bullies.

Performer and writer Jenny Ellis said she’s so passionate about sharing the art form of shadow puppetry with children.

“In a digital age when there is so much time spent on screens in hyper-real settings, the simplicity of shadow theatre still retains a sense of magic,” she said.

“It’s an amazing thing to hear a room full of children gasping and exploding into laughter over a simple silhouette.

“It’s hands-on and is something that children can readily use to tell their own stories. It’s still able to captivate their imaginations.”

Ms Ellis will be conducting workshops

teaching children, parents and teachers simple techniques to create their own shadow puppets and giving them the tools to tell their stories.

Anyone who can draw and use scissors can make a shadow puppet, and with imagination and a few tricks of the trade you can bring your puppet to life.

Ms Ellis has been making puppets and bringing them to life for over 20 years. She has a Post-Graduate Diploma in Puppetry from the Victorian College of the Arts, and her show, The Mermaid’;s Daughter with Company Gongoma won the Melbourne Fringe Festival Award for

The Best School Holiday Program 2008, Master shadow puppeteer Richard Bradshaw, who has performed alongside Jim Henson’s the Muppets, mentored Jenny in 2011. She was also awarded a major fellowship by the Mike Walsh Foundation to research contemporary puppetry in Europe in 2012.

Jenny has performed to over 50,000 school students and in numerous festivals, theatres and country halls in every state and territory of Australia since 2006. Little Wing Puppets has grown to include her husband and their baby girl who have been touring together alongside her.

Spike the Echidna Performance & Workshop Mon 6 Jul, 10:00 AM Montrose Town centre

A shadow puppetry and slapstick interactive experience for kids and families. Followed by a shadow and puppetry workshop for kids.

Scan to book

yarraranges.vic.gov.au/culturetracks 1300 368 333

Holograms for holidays

Families from across Melbourne are invited to step into a world of snow, sea creatures and holographic adventure these school holidays, as Hologram Zoo Melbourne celebrates its first birthday.

Since opening in Ringwood Square last July, Hologram Zoo has offered a distinctly different kind of family outing: an indoor walkthrough attraction where animals, worlds and stories appear as giant holograms around visitors.

Rather than looking at animals from behind glass, guests move through a series of immersive spaces as creatures appear at life-size scale, swim overhead or emerge from the dark. The experiences are guided, family-friendly and designed to offer plenty of “did you see that?” moments for children and adults alike.

For the winter school holidays, the venue is taking families on an Arctic adventure.

The Arctic Hologram Experience brings visitors face-to-face with towering whales, penguins and other polar animals in an immersive digital world.

One standout moment lets guests come eye to eye with a life-size humpback whale, while the optional Dinosaur Upgrade offers a completely different thrill, including the chance to be chased by a T-rex.

The birthday celebrations take place on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 July under the banner ‘One Wild Year’.

Alongside the Arctic experience, every child attending will receive a free popcorn or fairy floss treat, while families can enjoy face painting, use the green screen photo and video studio, and take part in the chance for children to appear in their

own giant hologram cameo.

The green screen studio is included with admission and lets visitors create short photo and video souvenirs to download and take home.

During the birthday weekend, selected children will also have the opportunity to become part of the hologram action itself.

Snowfall will appear every 30 minutes across the weekend, adding an extra wintery touch to the celebrations.

Hourly Lucky Door Prizes will also give families the chance to win upgrades, merchandise packs and other surprises.

Every paid ticket purchased for the birthday weekend will be entered into the major Birthday Draw, with a Premium Hologram Zoo Birthday Party Package among the prizes.

Families who add the Dinosaur Upgrade receive bonus entries into the draw.

Hologram Zoo Melbourne is located on the lower level of Ringwood Square, under Bunnings, with free undercover parking nearby.

It is an all-weather activity with guided hologram shows, interactive moments, colouring and a cafe offering drinks and light snacks.

The birthday weekend is a chance for families to discover something unexpected in Melbourne’s east, whether they are meeting Arctic animals for the first time, returning for another adventure, or simply keen to see snow falling in the middle of winter.

Bookings are recommended for all Hologram Zoo sessions.

Visit hologramzoo.melbourne/wildone for Birthday Celebration details and tickets.

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur

ACROSS

1 Relaxed (6)

4 Wailing harbingers of death in Irish folklore (8)

9 Scallywag (5)

10 One who believes in sharing evenly amongst the community (9)

11 Greek letter (5)

12 Objects relating to the US (9)

13 Plan (8)

15 Cross out (6)

16 Meal (6)

18 Indian term for a woman in a position of authority (8)

23 Eye cover (9)

24 Mesoamerican culture (5)

26 Represented as perfect (9)

27 With a full figure (5)

28 Calamity (8)

29 Ancient Greek figure of beauty (6)

DOWN

1 Traditions (7)

2 Gap (5)

3 Show approval by clapping (7)

5 Bowman (6)

6 Holiday destination (7)

7 Two British Queens (9)

8 Position, move into place (7)

10 Expressing future intent (5)

14 Pleasure (9)

16 Reconstruct (7)

17 Seats on the backs of horses (7)

19 Concluded (5)

20 Impaled (7)

21 Flatters (7)

22 Disorder, dishevel (6)

25 Resident of Houston, e.g. (5)

each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

Today’s

17 words: Good 26 words: Very good 35 words: Excellent

5 LETTERS ABIDE ABODE ABYSS ADAGE ADORE AFFIX ALIGN ALTOS ARGUE ARIAS ATLAS AWARE BADGE BAGEL BIGOT BLEND DOONA DRIVE EERIE

BEAUTIFULLY BALANCED HOME DESIGN

BEAUTIFULLY BALANCED HOME DESIGN

A clear distinction between social and private zones creates a sense of calm and balance within Hamlet Living’s ‘Boyd’ home design.

Two well-proportioned bedrooms and a central bathroom are thoughtfully positioned alongside a flexible multipurpose room, offering the freedom to create a study, hobby space or occasional guest retreat, and complemented by the practicality of a second full bathroom.

At the rear of the home, the social zone extends to a sunny side deck, creating a natural connection to the outdoors.

Whether hosting long twilight dinners, enjoying quiet mornings in the sun or embracing the rhythm of everyday life, the Boyd is designed to feel effortlessly like home.

On certain lots the Boyd can be customised to feature a 1.5 garage.

ATTRIBUTES

• Clever Jack & Jill bedroom arrangement with shared walk-in wardrobe & private ensuite access

Versatile small third bedroom, study or multipurpose room, with adjoining full bathroom

• Bright, dual-aspect kitchen, living & dining area

• Generous, well-appointed kitchen ideal for entertaining

Side deck for effortless indoor–outdoor living

Welcoming front verandah

Dedicated laundry room with convenient access to garage

• Built in hall storage

• Double glazing & underfloor insulation throughout for comfort in every season

Signature Hamlet gable roof design

THE BOYD –

From $845,000

2 Bed, 2 Bath, Study, Deck, Verandah

HOME SIZE: 141m (Internal: 106m Garage: 22m Outdoor living: 13m ●

HAMLET LIVING: BOUTIQUE OVER 50S COMMUNITY LAUNCHES IN LILYDALE

HAMLET Living is proud to announce the launch of Hamlet Lilydale, a boutique over50s community nestled beside Bellbird Park and Lillydale Lake, in the heart of the Yarra Ranges. Comprising 50 beautifully designed homes, a welcoming community clubhouse, and 3 hectares of open green space, Hamlet offers homeowners a unique lifestyle in one of the most desirable locations in Lilydale.

Hamlet Living is owned and operated by their Melbourne-based team, led by James Kelly and Cecelia Hund; “From the outset, our goal has been to create a more boutique community in Lilydale that feels personal, welcoming and connected for our homeowners. As a smaller, more customer focused operator, we’re personally invested in every detail, something you will feel the moment you arrive.”

Hamlet Lilydale represents a new kind of housing choice for the Yarra Ranges. Their land lease model makes it possible to deliver thoughtfully designed, low maintenance homes, with outstanding community facilities, all while delivering greater financial flexibly in retirement for homeowners.

Hamlet Lilydale has now opened its Sales Office at 375 Swansea Road, and has already celebrated its first home sales. With prices starting from $845,000, buyers are eager to gain first access to everything Hamlet Lilydale has to offer.

For more information or to book a sales consultation, visit hamletliving.com.au. ●

Hamlet Lilydale is a community for those embracing a richer, simpler, more connected life; whether working, transitioning or enjoying retirement. We’re small by design, just 50 homes, creating a neighbourhood that feels personal not programmed.

Nestled beside Bellbird Park and Lillydale Lake, Hamlet Lilydale brings together beautifully designed homes, welcoming community facilities and abundant green space in one thoughtfully planned neighbourhood.

Experience a community that feels personal, connected and distinctly local.

SPACIOUS FAMILY LIVING IN A CONVENIENT BELGRAVE LOCATION

SET on 1,020sqm in a convenient Belgrave location, this spacious four-bedroom, twobathroom home offers a fantastic family lifestyle just five minutes from Belgrave Township, schools and public transport.

An undercover entry welcomes you inside to a comfortable carpeted lounge, where large windows fill the space with natural light. A woodfire creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, while a split system and gas ducted heating ensure year-round comfort.

Privately positioned, the master bedroom features a walk-in robe and a spacious ensuite, while a second bedroom with built-in robes is located nearby. A few steps lead to a second living area, creating valuable extra space for growing families, along with two further bedrooms, both fitted with built-in robes.

The newly updated kitchen is well equipped with a gas cooktop, dishwasher, abundant storage and generous bench space, flowing seamlessly into the dining area. From here, sliding doors open to the undercover entertaining area, making indoor-outdoor living and entertaining effortless. A full laundry, family bathroom and separate toilet add further practicality to the home.

Outside, the fully fenced backyard provides plenty of room for children and pets to play safely. Vehicle accommodation is well catered for with a double lock-up garage incorporating a workshop with concrete floor and power, a single carport and ample off-street parking.

Offering family-friendly outdoor space, comfort and a highly convenient location, this welcoming family home is ready to be enjoyed.

Call to arrange a private inspection today. Please note: All property details shown are correct at time of publishing. Some properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office. ●

SpaciousHillsLivingwithDualAccessandFlexibleFamilyLayout. Seton6,236sqminasought-afterEmeraldpocketwithdualaccess&leafyviews,thisspacious double-storeyhomeoffersflexibilityforfamiliesofallstages.Twomastersuitesmakeitidealformultigenerationallivingorguests.Downstairsfeaturesaprivatezonewithamastersuite(ensuite,walk-in robe,splitsystem),plustwobedroomswithbuilt-inrobesservicedbyacentralbathroom.Upstairshas beenfullyrenovated,withlight-filledlivingcentredaroundastrikingdouble-sidedwoodfireshared withthemainmasterretreat,completewithwalk-inrobe&luxeensuitewithfreestandingbath& oversizedshower.Theopen-plankitchen&diningincludestimberbenchtops,farmhousesink,double ovens&alargeisland.Slidingdoorsopentoanundercoverentertainingarea.Freshpaint,new carpets&ampleparkingcompletethisprivate,lifestyle-focusedproperty.

ComfortableFamilyLivingonHalfanAcrewithWalk-to-TownConvenience. Seton2,021sqmwithinwalkingdistancetotown,schools&publictransport,thiswell-presented 3-bedroombrickhomeofferscomfort,convenience&arelaxedlifestylewithasealeddrive& doublelock-upgarage.Inside,thelight-filledloungeenjoyselevatedviewsthroughlargewindows& featurestimberflooring,splitsystemheating/cooling&gasductedheatingthroughout.Thekitchen &diningareaiswell-appointedwithagasstovetop,integratedoven,dishwasher,skylight,fridge recess,excellentbenchspace&amplestorage.Privatelypositioned,themasterbedroomincludesa walk-inrobe,splitsystem&ensuite,whiletheremainingbedroomsalsofeaturesplitsystems,onewith built-inrobes.Acentralfamilybathroom,separatetoilet&laundrycompletethehome.Outside,the fullyfencedbackyardprovidesplentyofspaceforkids&pets,withampleoff-streetparking. 66WooriYallockRoadCockatoo

AProvenHillsBNBinPrimeGembrookLocation! SetintheDandenongRangesjustoveranhourfromMelbourne’sCBD,theestablished&well-loved GembrookCottagespresentacharmingaccommodationbusinessopportunityintheheartof Gembrook.WithineasywalkingdistanceofPuffingBilly,Gembrook–EmeraldWalkingTrail,cafés, restaurants&thelocalbar,thelocationattractsvisitorsseekingarelaxingHillsescape.Theproperty comprisesthreebeautifullystyledcottages,eachfeaturingfour-posterbeds,leatherlounges, kitchenettes,Wi-Fi&woodheaters.BluebellCottageofferscalmingbluetones&aprivatedeckwith spa.HaremCottagefeaturesearthyinteriors&sunkenovalspaindoors,whileKookaburraCottage showcasessoftpastelhues&tranquilatmosphere.Withaloyalrepeatclientele&strongreputation, thebusinessenjoysconsistentdemand,supportedbynearbyparks,wildlife&walkingtrails.

slopinggrassyclearingsareframedbybeautifulleafysurrounds.Withsweepingmountainviews creatingastunningbackdrop,thispeacefulpropertyofferstheperfectsettingtobuildthelifestyle you’vebeendreamingof.Positionedonasealedroadwithpoweravailable&setacrosstwotitles, thepropertycombinesruralcharmwitheverydayconvenience.LocatedjustmetresfromHoddles CreekPrimarySchool&onlynineminutesfromYarraJunctionforshops,cafés&dailyessentials,it deliversthebestofpeacefulcountrylivingwithoutfeelingisolated.Withplentyofspacetodesign youridealhome&substantialshedding(STCA),thisappealingacreagepresentsanexciting opportunityforthoseseekingfreshair,openspace&atrueHillslifestyle.

PRESTIGIOUS ARCHITECTURAL RETREAT WITH VIEWS

PRIVATELY positioned at the end of a quiet grove and accessed via electric gates, this exceptional architectural residence offers the perfect balance of contemporary luxury, Western Port Bay views, on 3718sqm (1 acre approx.) block in a peaceful location all within walking distance to Belgrave Central.

Recently renovated throughout to an impeccable standard, the home showcases quality fixtures, fittings, and finishes, thoughtfully designed to complement its flexible floorplan. Multiple living zones provide versatile accommodation for families of all sizes; while soaring cathedral ceilings create a sense of grandeur, space, and connection to the surrounding landscape.

Upon entry, you are greeted with an abundance of natural light which streams through expansive double-glazed windows, framing stunning outlooks from every angle. Beautiful, engineered parquetry flooring flows throughout the home, complemented by plush carpeting and automated blinds, and the Cathedral ceilings enhance the sense of openness, creating a serene and relaxing retreat.

At the heart of the residence lies the gourmet kitchen, featuring stone benchtops, Wolf appliances, sleek cabinetry, and generous storage. Designed for both everyday living and entertaining, this impressive space seamlessly connects with the family room and surrounding living and dining areas.

The luxurious master suite has been thoughtfully renovated to create a private sanctuary, overlooking a tranquil central courtyard framed by lush greenery. Designed with both comfort and sophistication in mind, it features an expansive dressing room with wall-to-wall custom cabinetry and a beautifully appointed ensuite complete with underfloor heating. The serene outlook and elegant finishes combine to create a peaceful retreat, perfectly suited for rest and relaxation.

Three distinct living zones provide exceptional flexibility, offering dedicated spaces for formal entertaining, family living, or quiet relaxation. Each area has been thoughtfully positioned to maximise natural light and capture the home’s spectacular outlooks.

Step outside to a covered alfresco entertaining area where you can enjoy yearround dining while enjoying the beautifully landscaped gardens which provide a peaceful setting, inviting you to relax and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of this remarkable property.

Practicality has not been overlooked, with a spacious double garage incorporating a dedicated workshop, ideal for trades, hobbies, or additional storage.

A separate oversized garage provides exceptional accommodation for a caravan, boat, trailer, or extra vehicles. Perfect for a tradesman or those with recreational or lifestyle pursuits.

The beautifully landscaped gardens create a private and tranquil setting, providing a picturesque backdrop to everyday living and outdoor entertaining. Thoughtfully designed to complement the home’s natural surroundings, they offer a peaceful sanctuary in which to relax and unwind.

Enjoying a highly sought-after location

SMALLCOMMUNITYVIBE

***CLOSINGDATEFOROFFERS4pmMONDAY13thJULY(unlesssold prior!)***

Thishomeisnestled withinapeacefuland tightlyheld courtand offersabeautifuloutlook acrossGembrookPark.Thehomewelcomesyouwithasenseofwarmthand tranquillity featuringasplit-levelfloorplan,multiplelivingspaces,open-plankitchen, dining,GDH, evaporativecooling,split-systemairconditioning,and aprivategenerouslyproportioned mastersuite.Alargesun-drenched patioisperfectforentertaining.

MickDolphin 0429684522

JacksonAcott 0494142438

***Closing dateforoffersWednesday8thJuly@4pm(unlesssold prior)*** Tucked awaybehind established treesonabeautifullymaintained and fullyfenced usable4,832sqmmuchloved home.Featuresincludefreshlypainted throughout, beautifulfloorboards,spaciousmasterretreatwithitsownloungearea,study,astylishly renovated bathroom,generouslaundry,GDH&splitsystemsthroughout.Outsidefeatures averandah,15.5mx14mshed,builtapproximatelysixyearsago&re-surfaceddriveway.

CaitiEllis 0493136937

MickDolphin 0429684522

INVESTOROCCUPYINTHEFUTURE

$1,400,000-$1,540,000

OpportunityKnocks!APremium,flat1176sqm(approx)on4lotsover1title!Thisproperty hasbeenhel inthesameownershipforover40years,butnowthetimehascomefor thebatontobehan e over!Oneofthebestspotsintown.Currentlylease at$1250 permonth+GST+outgoingsforafurther2years.Rearlaneaccess,27metretotalroa frontage,117sqmtotalbuil ingsitearea.Currentlylease at$1250permonth+GST+ outgoings,lease with2yearsleftona3yearlease.FlexibleSettlement.

MickDolphin 0429684522

JacksonAcott 0494142438

PRESTIGIOUSARCHITECTURALRETREAT

WESTERNPORTBAYVIEWS

Privatelypositioned attheend ofaquietgroveaccessed viaelectricgates,this exceptionalarchitecturalresidenceofferstheperfectbalanceofcontemporaryluxury, WesternPortBayviews,on3718sqm(1acreapprox.)Recentlyrenovated thehome showcasesqualityfixtures&fittings,flexiblefloorplan,multiplelivingzones,soaring cathedralceilings,expansive double-glazed windows,parquetryflooring,automated blinds,atranquilcentralcourtyard &beautifullylandscaped gardenstonameafew. 4 A 3 B 6 C

JanBrewster 0409558805

HOME FOCUS

PRIVATE FAMILY RETREAT  SPACIOUS HOME ON 2.5 ACRES WITH INDOOR POOL

SET on approximately 2.5 acres of beautifully established grounds, this private family sanctuary offers a balance of peaceful seclusion and everyday convenience, with public transport, schools, shops, and local amenities all within easy reach.

A winding driveway meanders through lush gardens, revealing a hidden haven nestled privately toward the rear of the property. Designed for relaxed family living, the spacious residence offers multiple living zones, generous accommodation, and the unique luxury of an indoor swimming pool for year-round enjoyment.

At the heart of the home, the charming country-style kitchen exudes warmth and character. A cosy window seat provides the perfect place to relax while taking in tranquil views of the fernery and surrounding gardens.

Flowing seamlessly from the kitchen is a welcoming sitting area, where a crackling wood fire creates an inviting atmosphere during the cooler months. Adjacent, the spacious dining area overlooks the lush fernery, enhancing the home’s connection to its beautiful natural surrounds.

The home offers exceptional living space, including a substantial lounge room with peaceful garden vistas and an additional living area currently utilized as a media room with the handy option of more bedroom options. Accommodation comprises three generously sized bedrooms, all fitted with built-in robes, while the privately positioned main bedroom features a spacious ensuite. Comfort is assured year-round with two large split-system air conditioners, gas heating, and an open fireplace.

A standout feature of the property is the lower-level indoor swimming pool, complete with dedicated shower and toilet facilities, providing a private retreat for recreation and relaxation in every season.

Step outside and discover a true garden oasis. Meandering pathways lead through enchanting established gardens featuring orchards, colourful shrubs, shady clearings, and peaceful spaces to unwind. An ornamental dam offers a picturesque

Rusticcharmingretreatwithmountainviews

Thischarminghomepresentsanexcitingopportunityforfirst-homebuyers,renovators,orinvestorsseekingan affordablepropertywithoutstandingpotential.Setonagenerousblockofjustover1,400sqm,thedesirablelocation onlyashortstrolltotherailtrail.Thecosyloungefeaturesawoodfire,whiletwosplit-systemairconditionersandmains gasductedheatingensureyear-roundcomfort.Theadjoiningdiningareaispositionedtotakeinthebeautifulviews, creatinganinvitingspacetorelaxandentertain,centrallylocatedkitchenofferseverythingyouneedtocookupa storm.Spaciousmasterretreatincorporatesstudy,largewalk-inrobe,andprivatebalconyaccess,thepossibilitiesare exciting.Twoadditionalbedroomscompletethehome’saccommodation.Outside,there’splentytoexplore.Thefully fencedyardprovidesamplespaceforfamiliesandpets,whilemultipleshedsandstorageareas,adogpen,anda separatestudio/bungalowofferfantasticflexibilityandfuturepotential.

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068

Overhalfanacre,gorgeousmountainviewsandatinyhouse! Anincredibleopportunitytosecurethisfabulouspropertyofover2300sq.mofland,complete withelevatedviewsthatwilltrulyleaveyouspellbound.Includedisatinyhouseconnectedto electricity,sewageandwater,justparkupontheweekendsputyourfeetupandenjoythe beautifulenvironment.Thetinyhouseisabonusandcertainlyhasallthe‘bellsandwhistles’and builttoahighstandard.Positionedtotakeinthatdreamymountainview.Ifyou’vebeenseriously consideringinvestinginWarburton,nowisthetime!WiththeopeningoftheWarburtonMountain BikeDestinationandseveralnewprojectsanddevelopmentsintown,thiscouldbetheopportunity you’vebeenwaitingfor.Thelocationisideal,onlyafewminutestotheYarraRiver,Warburtonrail trailandallthebeautyofwhatWarburtonhastooffer.

RelaxtotheSoundsoftheYarraRiverinthisImmaculatelyPresentedHaven Setonapproximately1,250sqmoflush,privategardens,thischarminghomefeaturestwospacious bedroomsandtwobathrooms,includingamasterretreatcompletewithafullensuiteandwalkin robe.Designedforeasyliving,theopenplanlivingareaopensthroughFrenchdoorsontoaprivate deck.Thewellappointedkitchenisbothfunctionalandstylish,offeringgenerousbenchspace, modernappliances,abutler’spantry,andanadjoiningmealsarea.Additionalhighlightsinclude gatedaccessleadingdowntowardstheriver,alockupgarageandplentyofstorageoptions throughout.PositionedwithineasywalkingdistancetoeverythingWarburtonhastooffer,thishome isatruesanctuaryinahighlysoughtafterlocation.Thisisarareopportunitytosecureyourplacein oneofVictoria’smostdesirableandfastgrowingregions.

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068

95YellowgumRoad,HoddlesCreek$1,470,000-$1,570,000

workfromhomesetup.Multipleliving/loungeandfamilyroomsgivethefamilyspacetospreadout. Thekitchenisimpressivewithqualityappliancesandplentyofbenchandcupboardspaceplusa separatemeals/diningarea.Stepoutsideandenjoycovereddeckingandanalfresco/BBQarea -justthespottorelaxandenjoytheYarraValleyviews.Alargehighclearancecarportandbarn offerplentyofcar,truckandcaravanaccommodation.Thefamilywilllovetheacresofspacewith somethingforeveryone!Afantasticpropertyinagloriousandprivatelocation.

PICTURE PERFECT HILLS LIVING WITH A STUNNING OUTLOOK

SET high above Upper Ferntree Gully with sweeping views across the township and surrounding hills, 27 Ferndale Road delivers a beautiful blend of character, comfort and lifestyle appeal. Full of warmth and charm, this inviting home showcases polished timber floors, high ceilings, large windows and an incredible outlook that creates a true sense of peace and escape.

The heart of the home is the spacious kitchen, complete with a large island bench, and excellent storage, flowing easily through to the meals area and generous living zone. Bathed in natural light, the living space enjoys garden aspects through expansive windows, creating a relaxed setting for everyday living. Comfort is well catered for with ducted heating running throughout the home, while three of the four bedrooms are also serviced by split system cooling.

Accommodation includes four bedrooms, with the main bedroom offering a wonderful sense of character with its fireplace, split system, high decorative ceiling and stunning outlook. The updated bathroom is stylish and practical, featuring a walk-in shower, modern vanity and quality finishes, while the separate laundry adds further convenience.

Outdoors, the home truly shines. A large wrap around deck provides the perfect place to entertain, relax or simply take in the treetop surrounds and beautiful valley views. Whether it’s morning coffee, summer dinners or quiet evenings overlooking the hills, this is a space that captures everything people love about the Dandenong Ranges lifestyle.

Complete with a carport, generous deck space, charming weatherboard appeal and a peaceful leafy setting, this character filled home offers an exciting opportunity in a sought after Upper Ferntree Gully location, moments from local shops, schools, transport, walking tracks and the gateway to the Hills. ●

Aaron’s say on budget

Every week, I speak with members of our community and small business owners who are doing everything right but still falling behind.

From Upwey to Warburton, Healesville to Chirnside Park, the story is identical: locals work hard and want to get ahead, but they feel like the system is working against them.

Unfortunately, the Albanese Labor Government’s federal budget handed down last month did nothing to restore hope for Australians.

Instead of tackling our economic challenges, the government handed down a budget of broken promises, higher taxes and more debt.

From my From my desk

Federal Member for Casey

It’s a budget that leaves our community paying the price for Canberra’s failures – to the tune of $50 billion in higher taxes across the economy, including $15 billion in higher personal income taxes.

We are a community of self-starters who run small businesses and employ locals. Of apprentices and trainees who are building a future with their own two hands. Of families working hard for their children’s future. Of farmers and growers working long hours to feed the nation.

Multilingual and cultural

In “A multilingual people and a monolingual state” , Craig A. Smith’s introduction to his recently published book Sinophone Australia, the historian, translator and editor says: “As a multilingual settler colony, Australia has always been a site of multiple languages spoken by Indigenous and immigrant communities. Claims that it is or was a monolingual country should be dismissed and refuted – alongside the White Australia Policy – as a concept that obfuscates and simplifies, as well as one that marginalises and oppresses a substantial part of the country’s population.”

Smith argues that, although Australia is a multilingual society, it is “an Anglo-centric country” and English remains “the undisputed language of government, education, business, and publish discourse”

This contrast “has led to numerous difficulties in writing the history of Australia and its peoples”

Most unfortunately: “Those who write their stories in another language are inevitably marginalised by mainstream histories due to the continued hegemony of the English language.” Such marginalisation may not intentional. However, as Lady Sarah Ashley vehemently insists in the renowned 2008 Baz Luhrmann film Australia: “Just because it is, doesn’t mean it should be.”

As a translator myself, I cannot agree more with these words from Smith: “Translators and historians have a moral responsibility to provide access to many of the stories that make up [Australian history]. We must unsilence that which has been silenced by creating access to the sources and narratives that can tell these stories.”

It seems safe to assume that, while writing these words, Smith could not have foreseen the extraordinary proposal by certain individuals in recent weeks that Australia should become a monocultural country.

One can almost see them feeling agitated and

Our community has been built on aspiration, and it’s time we had a government that supports that vision, instead of standing in the way.

I believe there is a better way. The Coalition and I have a plan for a fairer, freer and better Australia. We want to restore Australia to a country where life is affordable, where our kids can buy a home, where you can raise a family and have a fair go once again.

This begins with our Tax Back Guarantee. For too long, when locals get a pay rise, inflation simply pushes them into a higher tax bracket.

Our guarantee will end this by indexing tax thresholds to inflation, ensuring that when you work hard or pick up extra shifts, you keep more of what you earn.

We also know that small and family businesses

are the lifeblood of our community. The Coalition will support small businesses to invest in their own growth by allowing businesses with a turnover of less than $10 million to immediately deduct assets of up to $50,000 – and we will make this permanent.

This will help tradies buy tools, farmers buy equipment, hospitality venues update their kitchens and will see small businesses investing with confidence once again.

I know locals are struggling on many fronts. They’re worried about the state of our country and their children’s future.

I will continue to be a strong local voice on the issues that matter most across our region, and I will keep working to restore our standard of living and protect our way of life.

Supergirl review

Eve

M

3.75/5

The second film in the new DC Comics film franchise, Supergirl is an unfortunate letdown from last year’s Superman.

Kara Zor-El (Milly Alcock), the troubled cousin of Superman (David Corenswet), must track down the pirate Krem (Matthias Schoenaerts) to save her dog Krypto.

Alcock is a fun lead as a jaded brat who cares for others in spite of herself, and the deeply moving flashback to her childhood, as her homeworld Krypton effectively dies a second time around her, goes a great distance in making Kara more sympathetic. This tragic flashback is the best part of the film, and the best action sequence is an incredibly dynamic scene, equal parts dogfight and punch-up, of Kara turning the tables on some space robbers. Kara develops a cute begrudging bond with Ruthye (Eve Ridley), a girl who vows revenge on the man who killed her parents (though Ruthye has a distractingly upper-crust British accent for an alien).

Supergirl is a decently entertaining adventure, but like Disclosure Day, it’s hampered by many annoying elements. Supergirl has plenty of cool art

The Round

design, costumes and prosthetics, offset by severely dim lighting and a dull colour palette. Much of the action is chaotic and unmemorable (with some good beats here and there). Schoenaerts is terribly bland as Krem, and while Jason Momoa is clearly having a blast playing the burly bounty hunter Lobo, he’s about as tertiary and crowbarred into the plotasWonderWomanwasinBatmanvSuperman. The plot is also very derivative of Mad Max: Fury Road and progresses without much urgency, with poison or different-coloured sunlight barely sticking as threats for Kara.

Playing in most Victorian cinemas, Supergirl is buoyed by a cool lead with plenty of attitude but burdened by largely unsatisfying visuals and action. - Seth Lukas Hynes

PASSION FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

even threatened whenever they encounter someone speaking another language in the supermarket or on the train. Particularly in economically tough times, cultural traits such as language, appearance, mannerism and behaviours are often used as weapons by those who insist on turning the fabricated into the real line between “us” and “them”.

These are convenient and popular weapons, conjured out of their own selfish interest and (imagined and often exaggerated) lack of security. But these biases, presumptions, misconceptions and prejudices are not and should never be seen as facts.

Our history, like our life, is both complex and nuanced. Each of us is unique in our own ways, and there are as many ways to tell our stories as there are stories to tell. Choosing only one way to write, share and/or learn our history will only makes us bland and dull.

None of us wants to read, watch or have ourselves reduced to one-dimensional characters, so why should we even consider any proposal to reduce the richness of our culture?

Australia may be Anglo-centric and English may be the language that unites us all, but it is multilingualism and multiculturalism that makes us a strong, diverse and proud nation.

Beatles Legacy, with special Guest Denis Walter.

The Beatles Legacy is a remarkable tribute act dedicated to faithfully recreating their music, energy, and charisma of the iconic Beatles.

Theatre round up time Kemp’s urtain call curtain

Comprising of talented musicians who share an immense passion for the Fab Four’s music, the band mutinously creates the sound and spirit of the Beatle’s legendary performances.

Performing Masterpieces from Paul, John, George and Ringo, Wings, Travelling Wilburys, and beyond, this two hour musical journey will take you from the early days of Beatles to their to their critically acclaimed solo careers.

Also featuring a very special gust, Mr Denis Walter, who wll be joining us on stage to sing some of his favourite Beatles songs.

Season: Saturday 18 July at 7.30pm.

Burrinja Theatre

Lior with String Quartet

Join us for a warm and elegant evening with acclaimed Australian singer-songwriter Lior.

Burrinja is looking forward to welcoming Lior back for this special one-off performance, where he is joined by a string quartet to share reimagined selections from his celebrated back catalogue.

This one-off performance echoes the inviting atmosphere of classic saloon concerts.

Accompanied by a string quartet, the evening offers the audience a rare opportunity to experience Lior’s brilliant songwriting up close, beautifully enriched by string arrangements.

Season: Friday 24 July, 8pm.

The 1812 Theatre

Rumpelstiltskin

A school holiday adventure filled with magic, mischief, and just a pinch of mayhem!

Step into a world of laughter and wonder as The 1812 Theatre brings Chris Hodson’s Rumpelstiltskin to life in a bright, cheeky, familyfriendly pantomime.

This delightful retelling of the classic fairy tale has everything you love about panto.

Aboastfulfatherwhotalkshiswayintotrouble.

A greedy king desperate to get rich.

A helpless daughter caught in the middle.

AsneakyRumpelstiltskinwithaplanofhisown. And a rave hero (plus very determined blind mice) ready to save the day.

Expect big laughs, colourful characters, and plenty of audience as this whimsical story spins out on stage.

Season: 29 June – 5 July.

Gemco theatre

Open Stage

Welcome one and all to Gemco’s ongoing Open Stage night.

Hosted by Carol, our popular open stage has been running for many decades.

Held in the cosy hall, you are welcome to perform anything you like or just come for the lovely entertainment

Enjoy music, poetry, singing, monologies or anything you wish to show!

Running the first Saturday of every month, now starting at 7pm.

Season: 4 July at 7pm – 7.30pm.

Support local star’s national dream

By Callum Ludwig

A Hoddles Creek hockey star is seeking support to help him represent the state in an upcoming national championships.

Archie Robertson has been selected for Victoria in the Phillip Ginsberg National Championship, an interstate tournament for ice hockey players aged 13 and under.

Archie got into the sport through his Dad, Troy Roberston, who has represented Victoria and Australia himself.

Having also been selected last year, Archie said he thinks he will feel a little less nervous this time around and that last year they were

really good as a team as they went on to win the competition in Western Australia.

This year, as a top-age player and with a number of new teammates around him they will be looking to win it again.

“They came home with gold last year, so that’s two years in a row for Victoria, so there’s a lot of pressure on the big kids again this year,” Archie’s mum Holly Roberts said.

“It’s a very different team this year as a lot of those kids have moved on to the next age group, so we’ll see how they go.”

Archie currently plays for the IceHQ ducks, with their home rink located in Reservoir. He participates in multiple tournaments across

Australia over the year and the costs to play and travel are adding up, so the family have started a fundraiser to try and get a little bit of help.

Ms Roberts said they have an online fundraiser and a donation tin at Cafe Mary Rose in Yarra Junction.

“It’s not cheap, even just playing the seasons through the year isn’t cheap, and that’s on top of everything else that he does so any help is appreciated,” she said.

“We want him to be able to do everything possible and take every opportunity that comes his way so we make it work but he’s also looking at wanting to go overseas and start

playing over there.

“The main thing that limits us from being able to do things like that is the cost, it’s just so expensive but we’ll get there somehow.”

His talents aren’t limited to the ice either as Archie also plays inline hockey locally for the Lilydale Rats weekly and will be competing in the Inline Hockey Australia nationals in Brisbane in September in both the 13 and Under and 15 and Under grades, You can donate to Archie’s competitive campaign at: asf.org.au/campaigns/archie-robertson/archie-robertson-ice-hockey-and-inline-hockey-nationals.

Results roll in across the Outer East FN league

By Armin Richter

Football Premier Division

Seniors: Wandin 18.12.120 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 8.11.59; Warburton-Millgrove 8.11.59 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 4.6.30; Monbulk 11.12.78 def Upwey-Tecoma 7.8.50; Officer 12.9.81 def Healesville 8.12.60; Mt. Evelyn 4.14.48 def Woori Yallock 4.6.30

Reserves: Olinda-Ferny Creek 11.4.70 def Wandin 8.14.62; Gembrook-Cockatoo 11.3.69 def Warburton-Millgrove 5.5.35; Upwey-Tecoma 7.6.48 def Monbulk 4.8.32; Officer 12.15.87 def Healesville 4.2.26; Mt. Evelyn 11.10.76 def Woori Yallock 3.6.24 Under 18 (combined): Upwey-Tecoma v Pakenham (abandoned - fog); Monbulk v Alexandra (abandoned - fog); Gembrook-Cockatoo v Warburton-Millgrove (abandoned - fog); Officer 4.6.30 def Healesville 2.6.18; Mt. Evelyn 5.8.38 def Woori Yallock 5.3.33; Wandin 15.5.95 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 10.5.65; Seville 14.11.95 def Yarra Glen 6.7.43 Women (Div 1): Olinda-Ferny Creek 6.9.45 def Belgrave 0.4.4; Warburton-Wesburn 14.11.95 def Pakenham 1.3.9; Upwey-Tecoma 5.2.32 def Mt. Evelyn 4.4.28; Healesville bye Veterans (Over 35 - round 7): Monbulk 11.11.77 def Upwey-Tecoma 2.2.14; Officer 7.3.45 def Mt. Evelyn 3.5.23; Olinda-Ferny Creek 4.4.28 def Belgrave 1.9.15; Gembrook-Cockatoo 9.6.60 def Yarra Glen 2.9.21; Wandin bye Division 1

Seniors: Alexandra 9.12.66 def Emerald 9.8.62; Belgrave 30.22.202 def Yarra Junction 5.1.31; Seville 10.13.73 def Yarra Glen 8.11.59; Yea 21.24.150 def Powelltown 1.2.8; Pakenham bye Reserves: Emerald 11.18.84 def Alexandra 3.4.22; Belgrave 20.21.141 def Yarra Junction 1.0.6; Seville 14.15.99 def Yarra Glen 2.2.14; Yea 16.18.114 def Powelltown 3.2.20; Pakenham bye Women (Div 2): Wandin 12.14.86 def Thornton-Eildon 0.1.1; Yea 3.7.25 def Seville 1.3.9; Officer 9.10.64 def Woori Yallock 3.1.19; Emerald 12.13.85 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 0.0.0 Netball Premier Division

A Grade: Wandin 66 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 48; Warburton-Millgrove 57 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 34; Monbulk 80 def Upwey-Tecoma 17; ROC 57 def Healesville 35; Mt. Evelyn 71 def Woori Yallock 40

B Grade: Wandin 49 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 27; Gembrook-Cockatoo 55 def Warburton-Millgrove 33; Monbulk 80 def Upwey-Tecoma 24; ROC 73 def Healesville 21; Mt. Evelyn 54 def Woori Yallock 53

C Grade: Wandin 62 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 12; Warburton-Millgrove 43 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 27; ROC 57 def Healesville 14; Mt. Evelyn 44 def Woori Yallock 30; Monbulk bye D Grade: Wandin 34 def Olinda-Ferny Creek

25; Warburton-Millgrove 19 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 15; ROC 36 def Healesville 9; Woori Yallock 33 def Mt. Evelyn 26; Monbulk bye

Under 17: Wandin 54 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 12; Warburton-Millgrove 38 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 13; ROC White 29 def Monbulk Gold 17; ROC Blue 57 def Monbulk Maroon 22; Mt. Evelyn 51 def Woori Yallock 30

Under 15: Wandin Blue 30 def Pakenham Gold 18; Monbulk Gold 46 def ROC White 12; ROC Blue 48 def Monbulk Maroon 23; Wandin Red 30 def Woori Yallock 20; Pakenham Maroon bye Division 1

A Grade: Emerald 72 def Alexandra 24;

All-action affairs for Lilydale

By Callum Ludwig

It was an entertaining affair as the Lilydale Masters took on Maroondah while the Seniors ground out a win against Blackburn Wolfpack.

In foggy conditions, the Masters were taking no chances with their ailing vision with both sides quick to put the ball out for a throw whenever they were in doubt.

It would be one of those early throws that would bring about the breakthrough in the seventh minute as Maroondah’s Richard L was slipped in and he coolly finished into the bottom corner.

From kickoff, Lilydale’s Byron Loveless would pick up the ball and drive forward before unleashing a shot but it was straight into the goalkeeper’s hands.

Maroondah would come close to doubling their lead a minute later after working it down the left to the goalscorer Richard who drilled it across the box. His cross was met with an outstretched foot and keeper Allen Dickson could only watch on as it grazed the outside of the post and went out for a goal kick.

Again minutes later Maroondah would find joy on the left wing and this time it was the goalscorer in the middle to meet it but it was straight at Allen.

The Lilydale defence remained under siege, coughing it up to Richard again in the 16th minute but he was unable to catch Allen off his line.

Maroondah had the next shot from range but it was drilled low into the hands of Allen. Loveless would then have an attempt with his weaker right foot saved comfortably.

But Lilydale would equalise on the counterattack in the 30th minute. Daniel Dickson went on a solo run down the left, chopped inside and finished nicely to make it 1-1. It would be short-lived, however, as only a minute later Maroondah would take and Richard would have a brace as his quick shot

caught Allen out at the near post.

Lilydale from the restart would use the blistering pace of Mark ‘The General’ Carrington on the right wing and his good cross would fall to Loveless but his shot was saved.

Loveless would turn provider minutes later as he worked a nice pass inside from the right wing to Leigh Thompson who would poke home for his first goal for the club.

In the 37th minute, Lilydale would take the lead for the first time in the game after Loveless took over from Nima Babazadeh and his snap shot would find the bottom right corner.

Again it wouldn’t last though, as the Eagles gave away a free kick on the right wing, which Maroondah would hit into the wall.

Babazadeh would attempt to head clear but inadvertently turn it into his own net.

But the goal weren’t done yet for the first half after Lilydale won a free kick near the halfway line. Daniel Dickson spotted the keeper miles off his line and just floated the ball into the back of the net to make it 4-3 before halftime.

After halftime, Maroondah would have the first shot but would blaze it over.

Loveless would then come close after turning his opponent inside and out but his shot from the left slammed into the post.

Maroondah would have a couple of attempts, putting one wide and testing Allen with the other.

Loveless would have another right-footed attempt thwarted by a block after a cross and Maroondah would have a couple more tame attempts.

A golden opportunity would go begging after Daniel Dickson was slipped in on goal but his shot with his left would blaze over the bar.

In the 69th minute, Daniel would embark ona trademark solo run through the middle of the park but again couldn’t keep his shot

don.

Not wanting to miss out on the fun, Maroondah would also blast a shot over the bar after the ball fell kindly in the box.

Unfortunately for the Eagles, it wouldn’t last as the danger man Richard completed his hat trick in the 74th minute with a shot from the left wing that bounced up past Allen to make it 4-4.

Both sides would push for a winner but failed to create any clear-cut chances despite the each having periods of ascendancy and that’s how the game would end.

In the Seniors, it would also be a cagey start to the game caught out on the flanks.

The first shot would come seven minutes in when Lilydale failed to clear but the shot fter a pass across the box from Blackburn ballooned over.

Another big chance would go begging for Blackburn after winning a free kick on the left wing was dropped in short. The Blackburn attacker beat keeper Daniel Dickson to the ball but scuffed his chance with his left to score into an empty net.

A long diagonal again caught Lilydale napping in the 20th minute but the striker could only turn and shoot over the bar.

Lilydale would finally have their first chance when Marcus Salvitti played a lovely ball over the top for Jake ‘Digga’ Dioguardi, who took it down, lost the defender but could only tap the ball into the keeper’s arms.

The Eagles grew into the game, Lucas Cordedda dragged a shot and Salvitti had a big chance that he also couldn’t put either side of the keeper with his left foot.

Digga raced through on a counterattack and had only the keeper to beat but put his shot wide of the right post.

Blackburn would test Dickson at his near post but he got down and held it.

Lilydale broke on the counter and Tarin Cooper raced away down the right but his

shot only rippled the side netting from a tight angle.

It would be another Lilydale counterattack that would open the scoring after the Eagles scrambled to defend after a poor free kick in their attacking half. Dickson claimed an errant ball and dished it out to Mark Vanderkolk. He played Cooper through who lost the ball but Byron Loveless won it back high up, played it back to Digga whose low shot was spilled by the keeper and Cooper followed in to tap home in the 38th minute. Only two minutes later, the Eagles thought they had doubled their lead when the ball broke through to Digga after a tussle on the edge of the box and he finished calmly this time.

But after consulting with the linesman and the opposition, the referee disallowed the goal and awarded a yellow card to Cooper for swearing in the build-up.

After the break, the game got combative with a few fouls but no clear chances until a corner for Blackburn called Fiifi Kwansah-Aidoo into action to clear it away from almost on the goal line.

Lilydale won a free kick in a dangerous area in the 59th minute. Salvitti stepped up but his shot was straight into the keeper’s arms.

Blackburn would force a save from Dickson two minutes later who tipped it over the bar.

Dickson would spill the resulting corner amongst a pile of players and Blackburn would get a shot off which saw Dickson spring up to make a great save.

It was more cagey play until Blackburn mustered a tame effort in the 73rd minute.

Finally Lilydale would have some breathing room in the 80th minute after winning the ball high up the pitch. Lucas Corded-

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Q&A

1. What emoji do you use the most?

The thumbs up emoji! It’s peak efficiency while out on the road or busy in Parliament and covers everything from ‘approved’, ‘got it’ to ‘sounds good’.

2. If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you bring?

A satellite phone to call for a ride back to the Yarra Ranges, a lighter to keep warm and a solid supply of good coffee. There are some things you can’t live without.

3. What is the most interesting place you have ever visited?

Parliament House in Canberra. It is an incredible honour to work in the heart of our democracy and I am still in awe of the building.

4. What was your first car? Did you name it?

A Ford Falcon, I didn’t name it but it probably deserved one.

5. Where would you like to retire?

The Yarra Ranges. There is simply nowhere else that beats our beautiful surroundings and sense of community.

6. What is the most unusual food you have ever tried, did you like it?

Kangaroo tail, wallaby and crocodile at Worawa Aboriginal College in Healesville. I liked it!

7. If you had any super power for a week, what would it be, and how would you use it?

Teleportation. I get out and about across our region as much as I can, but the ability to instantly flash between Warburton and Wonga Park would definitely come in handy!

8. What movie title matches your job role?

‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’ – A very accurate description of trying to juggle parliamentary votes in Canberra, shadow portfolio duties, and a packed schedule of local community events across the electorate all in a single afternoon.

9. What is the craziest thing you believed as a child? That Collingwood would win every grand final – an expectation that was crushed early on!

10. If you could have a conversation with your pet, what would you talk about?

Our family pet sadly passed away recently, but if I had a dog, I’d probably debate with them the best walking track in the Yarra Ranges.

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