Mail - Mountain Views Star Mail - 30th June 2026

‘Magic of music’

By Oliver Winn

Yarra Junction’s talented Arielle delivered a musical showcase of “prestige and glamour” at the Wandin Community Hall, leaving her audience awestruck.

The violinist performed a range of enchanting songs under the soft glow of candlelight on 17 June.

Hosted by the Rotary Club of Wandin, the Winter Solstice Candle Light Concert was a major hit with seats filling out and the audience eager for more.

“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,” Rotary Club of Wandin member Jeanette Jensen said.

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

The concert aimed to provide a captivating arts experience for locals while bringing people together.

Read more on page 13

Result overturned

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

Truckloads of fill 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 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-accred-

ited 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 retrospective 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 dis-

posal,” 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.

Chirnside Park intersection upgrade scheduled 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

Restrictions rejected

By Oliver Winn

The State Government has rejected calls to implement stricter environmental standards for a local quarry’s proposed expansion, labelling the current requirements as “appropriate”

It came after the Yarra Ranges Council urged for the Yarra Valley Quarry’s (YVQ) proposed expansion to require a full Environment Effects Statement at the 23 June council meeting.

A motion tabled by Ryrie Ward councillor Fiona McAllister cited concerns surrounding little chance for public scrutiny, impacts on amenity and endangered fauna potentially in the area.

“For a proposal of this scale in such an environmentally sensitive area with amenity impact, and an environment with known habitat of threatened species, the streamlined assessment process… in my view, is considered inadequate,” Cr McAllister said.

Launching Place resident Colin White attended the meeting alongside several other residents and said quarry activity had increased “quite dramatically” in the last couple of years.

“We’re seeing up to 100 truck movements [in and out of the quarry] per hour…with the heavy traffic we’re seeing now, there’s been a series of accidents here.

“We don’t have mains water available… so [the creek] is our primary source of drinking water. There’s a lot of runoff out of the quarry and it can be quite filthy, but it still runs into the creek,” Mr White said.

But a Victorian Government spokesperson said the current approval pathway was adequate for the expansion.

“An Environment Report is the appropriate pathway to assess the project’s potential environmental impacts.”

The Minister for Transport and Planning determined YVQ’s proposed expansion didn’t require an EES in January 2025, opting for a less stringent Environment Report instead.

But the motion stated it was “perplexing” that YVQ’s proposal hadn’t triggered an EES while the proposed expansion of the Montrose Quarry had, given YVQ’s ecological impact.

Cr McAllister said an EES was crucial as it legally mandates a 20 to 30 day public submissions period and a formal panel hearing process.

“But an environment report does not undergo an independent inquiry or a formal panel hearing process.

“As we’ve heard, the community has some opportunity, but limited opportunity, to have a voice and to raise their concerns,” she said.

But a Victorian Government spokesperson said locals would “have the opportunity to have their say” during the assessment process.

This includes the chance to submit an objection to the Environment Report when it’s finished.

YVQ is owned by Regional Group Australia, a subsidiary of Maas Group. The construction materials company has hosted a series of community meetings to provide updates and answer questions from local residents.

The meetings have guided YVQ sustainability manager Garry Cranny’s efforts to address issues, such as the quarry’s impact on creek water.

“But for drinking water in that section, we’ve

not done it until you’ve raised the issue with us, and that’s what we’re doing now. We do more water quality monitoring than any other quarry I know,” Mr Cranny said at a community meeting in May.

Mr White said residents would prepare an objection when the Environment Report comes out for public comment.

“But it’s sort of flown under the radar up until the last of the twelve months… we really haven’t had much opportunity [to respond],” he said.

The YVQ expansion would see its total extraction area increase from 23 hectares to 43 hectares wide, and at 285 metres deep, it could fit the Eureka Tower.

It’s located at the base of Mount Toolebewong and directly adjoins the Yarra Ranges National Park.

“This is an area of exceptional natural beauty, characterised by high ecological value and biodiversity, and it provides habitat for threatened flora and fauna species, including the critically endangered leadbeater’s possum and the vulnerable powerful owl,” Ms McAllister’s motion reads.

YVQ is responding to the Minister for Planning’s feedback on the second draft of its Environment Report.

It also awaits the Federal Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water’s (DCCEEW) approval, as gang gang cockatoo and southern greater glider populations have been detected within the area, though not necessarily

The Yarra Ranges Council are one of YVQ’s biggest customers outside of Maas Group’s own concrete plants.

Maas Group was contacted for comment.

IN BRIEF

Shrimp product recalled

A shrimp product is being recalled after a prohibited substance was detected in it earlier in June.

ASO United Pty Ltd recalled its Cooked Scampi Shrimp Head-On Shell-On product in the one kilogram variety after Nitrofurazone was found to have contaminated some batches.

Potential health risks may be associated with the consumption of the chemical, which is an antibiotic that was discontinued due to its potential carcinogenicity.

The product has been available for sale in Asian grocers and independent retail stores in Victoria.

The affected batches had a best before of 28/03/2028.

Consumers should return the product(s) to the place of purchase for a full refund. Any consumers concerned about their health should seek medical advice.

Aerial AusNet inspections

AusNet will be undertaking aerial inspections from 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.

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

Teens arrested after car theft

A teen from the Yarra Ranges area was released after a police pursuit from Doncaster to Richmond, while a teen from Mornington Peninsula was arrested on Sunday 28 June.

An allegedly outstanding stolen grey BMW was seen travelling on Williamson Road in Doncaster about 4pm on 26 June, and police followed the vehicle along Doncaster Road.

It is alleged they dumped the BMW in Balwyn North before leaving in a stolen Kia.

The car allegedly stopped inside an underground car park on Victoria Street, Richmond, at about 4.50pm.

Police, along with a dog squad, arrested a 17-year-old boy from the Mornington Peninsula, believed to be one of the occupants, who was also bitten by one of the dogs. The teen was taken to the hospital under police guard with non-life-threatening injuries.

The 15-year-old Yarra Ranges boy was arrested nearby, interviewed by detectives and released pending summons, while the 17-yearold from the Mornington Peninsula area remains in hospital remanded under police guard.

The older teen was charged with numerous counts of aggravated burglary, theft, attempted theft of a motor vehicle and criminal damage.

Monthly catch-ups in Warburton

Monthly coffee catch-ups in Warburton will kick off in July, hosted by the Warburton Valley Community Economic Development Association (WVCEDA).

The casual meetings start on Wednesday 8 July from 8.15am, offering locals more ways to connect with WVCEDA and members.

It’ll give locals the opportunity to provide feedback to the WVCEDA committee and meet up with other business owners in the area.

It’s a come as you please, have a chat and and coffee, and leave when you need to vibe.

No RSVP required.

For more information email: info@warburtonvalley.org.

Bus services 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 Ranges, but across the ETC member councils of Manningham, Maroondah, Knox, Monash, Greater Dandenong and Yarra Ranges.

“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 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

Dust complaints go unresolved

By Callum Ludwig

A Warburton resident has complained that the use of an easement is significantly impacting his ability to enjoy his home.

Tony Rostron’s home backs onto the Waburton Golf Club, while there is an easement owned by Melbourne Water alongside his home, which protects the underground water supply pipeline.

The easement contains a dirt track, which both the golf club and Melbourne Water can access, while there may also be other vehicles accessing the track for other purposes.

Mr Rostron said he has stage four cancer and emphysema, a lung condition which is exacerbated by dust.

“All I really want is them to put some gravel or something on the top of it, I’m not talking about a three-lane highway, I’m talking about a bit of gravel on top of it, that’s all,” he said.

“Obviously, it’s not dusty today, but usually the track is, and I’m just talking about two metres from my fence, which goes down the side of my property, and my carport is right next to the fence.

“When they go down, the dust flies everywhere, that’s all over my house, my washing, my cars and I try and keep them nice and clean but I can’t.”

Mr Rostron said has contacted both Melbourne Water and the golf club and was told the golf club leases the easement and is responsible for any

roadworks. He also said he has emailed the golf club 10-15 times over a period of six months and not received a reply.

Warburton Golf Club treasurer Gary Vollmer said the club is aware of the issue with the neighbour and would welcome a solution from Melbourne Water.

“The part of the track where the dust is coming from belongs to Melbourne Water, so we don’t have authority to do anything about that part of the track,” he said.

“But we are aware of the issue and sympathetic to his complaint.

“The part of the track that belongs to the golf club is covered in crushed rock and doesn’t create

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 prioritiesintheleaduptothe2026StateElectionand 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

Shire.”

verymuchdustatall,andthere’snotahugeamount of traffic that uses it as far as I know anyway.”

As far as the golf club is aware, only its groundskeeper uses the easement to access the golf club occasionally. The easement does not provide access to the parking area near the club.

Mr Rostron said he believes there’s quite a few vehicles that go down there each day, particularly in summer.

“We’re talking about probably 20 vehicles a day, maybe 30 sometimes, and some of them are large trucks carrying gravel and crushed rock and sand and all the other stuff like that, with trailers on the back,” he said.

“Mostly four-wheel drives or cars with six-byfour trailers, and for some reason I don’t understand why they go on this track to the golf club, and they come out with a trailer with firewood.

“I don’t know where they get that, but it just seems a bit strange to me.”

Melbourne Water was contacted for comment.

Melbourne Water has acknowledged the resident’s concerns, is investigating the issue and is in contact with both the resident and the golf club.

Have a say for Healesville future

By Gabriella Vukman

The Yarra Ranges Council’s Healesville Township Design Framework (TDF) continues to take shape, with local community groups already actively involved in discussions about how the town should grow and change in the coming years.

Building on the Healesville Structure Plan (2016), the TDF is intended to guide future decision-making across transport, parking, streets, public spaces, and community facilities.

It also aims to reflect what the community values most about Healesville while setting a clear direction for how the township can remain connected, accessible and welcoming.

The framework is currently in development, with Council running a series of Community Placemaking Workshops in late July and August.

These sessions are designed to refine ideas and test early design concepts before the draft framework is finalised.

Rather than starting from scratch, much of the groundwork has already involved engagement with local organisations and residents, many of whom have been contributing ideas for over a year.

Healesville Traders Association president Nina Sturgis noted the group has been closely involved in early discussions with Council and said pedestrian movement and connectivity have been central themes.

“We need better connections between the different areas of town, especially between the main street and the Hunter Road precinct.”

“The streetscape needs to be updated and made safer and more accessible, and we discussed pedestrian links to the railway precinct and especially across the railway line,” she said.

“We want to make sure the town is more pedestrian-friendly and link services to the differ-

ent business areas and update the streetscape to make it safer for pedestrians.”

Ms Sturgis said the process has been developing over time, with involvement from the Healesville Traders Association stretching back to early March of 2025.

“We initially met with the council to discuss this in March 2025,” Ms Sturgis said.

She also noted that the framework is still in draft form and evolving through community input.

Older residents and community organisations have also been actively involved, with U3A Healesville taking part in early workshops and continuing to engage in the process.

U3A president Ethne Pfeiffer said the organisation also contributed to early discussions focused on how different groups experience the town.

“The first workshop was about how we experience the town at the moment, and what could be different.”

“We talked about where there are some challenges for older people,” she said.

Similar to the Traders Association, key themes raised during U3A discussions included prioritising accessibility, safety, and comfort when moving around town.

Ms Pfeiffer said, “We want to be able to walk around safely on foot and with mobility aids.”

“We want things like safe road crossings and having more benches for older people to rest.”

“Lighting around car parks and other places in the town at night would make Healesville safer and more amenable.”

Ms Pfeiffer said the organisation has a strong interest in continuing to contribute, particularly given its broad community role.

“As our organisation grows, affordable access to venues is really important, so we will continue

to discuss this with the council.”

With nearly 400 members and over 50 courses each year, U3A Healesville uses venues across the township and said transport and access across different precincts are directly relevant to its members’ participation.

Local not-for-profit organisation Healesville Connect also weighed in on the new framework discussions, expressing the need for increased emergency services support, transport options for those without cars, and further engagement facilitation with local events and services.

A spokesperson for the group said potholes along roads to Maroondah Dam and Badger Weir are also of concern.

“It is not a great look for tourists either,” they said.

The next stage of the Healesville Township Design Framework engagement will continue through three Community Placemaking Workshops held at The Memo, Nan Francis Room, from 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm on Monday, 27 July, Monday, 10 August and Monday, 24 August.

Each session will focus on a different stage of the design process, including understanding key issues and opportunities identified so far, reviewing early design ideas for different precincts, and refining and providing feedback on draft concepts.

Council said the workshops will build on extensive earlier consultation and ongoing feedback from residents, businesses and community groups.

Local voices have already played a central role in identifying priorities such as safer pedestrian connections, improved accessibility, stronger links between precincts, and maintaining the town’s character while upgrading infrastructure.

As the process continues, further community input is expected to directly inform the draft TDF.

Glass recycling bin rejected

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 community 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.”

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.

A surrender fee, which is allegedly not a fee, was raised as an issue by the outer cat advocacy group Knox AdvoCats at the last Knox Council meeting.

Knox AdvoCats representative Ashlley Morgan-Shae 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.

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.

ers 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.

“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

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 difficult decisions, including due to financial pressure,” said the representative.

The representative from Animal Aid said the bigger issue and pressure comes from unidentified and uncollected cats and kittens entering their 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 car-

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.

Liwik Barring LCA gets ready as cold, wet season kicks in

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.

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 necessary 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.

The Liwik Barring Conservation Area is home to many nationally threatened

land

and many more.

Stair climb journey begins

By Oliver Winn

Members from the Warburton and Wesburn-Millgrove CFAs started their weekly ascent of the Mt Donna Buang Observatory Tower in preparation for this year’s Melbourne Firefighters Stair Climb (MFSC).

As they get themselves back into shape, the members are shaking tins for their individual fundraising campaigns towards cancer, mental health and emergency service workers.

In his 12th year, Wesburn-Millgrove CFA member Tony Lewis is somewhat of a stair climb veteran, and his enthusiasm remains high.

“I’m feeling excited for this year’s stair climb, but it’s always exciting leading up to it,” Mr Lewis said.

Training alongside Mr Lewis is Warburton CFA member Andre Araujo, who’ll be tackling the stairs for the third time this year.

“I know the process now to get prepared, we do a lot of training, during winter with Tony and the boys from Wesburn. I know that I’ll be more prepared by the time in September,” Mr Araujo said.

On 12 September, firefighters from all over the state will gather at the Crown Metropol in Melbourne to take on this year’s MFSC in an epic, 28-storey ascent.

They will do so under 25 kilograms of turnout gear and will raise funds for the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation, Lifeline and the Triple Zero Foundation.

The MFSC originally began as a tribute to the Memorial Firefighter Stair Climb, which honoured the sacrifice of 343 firefighters who lost their lives during the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks in America.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the tragic event, making it a significant year for the stair climb’s history.

Triple Zero Foundation director Chris May said he was hopeful they could reach $1 million again this year.

“I think the general feeling in the public is that, you know, everyone’s feeling the pinch of the cost of living crisis and whatnot.

“So fundraising is difficult and all of our climbers are out there doing barbecues and shaking tins to try and raise those vital funds,” Mr May said.

Mr Lewis aimed to raise $1000 individually and climb the stairs in under five minutes.

But the MFSC isn’t just a game for Mr Lewis,

as the climb’s cause is one he holds close to his heart.

“Well, this cause, it’s extremely important to me. Personally, having my own mental health struggles over the years and… my wife has had a bit of a journey with cancer in the past,” he said.

Mr Araujo said he also shared a personal connection to the MFSC.

I also have a history of mental health in my family and myself, so helping Lifeline and the cancer foundation, it’s a good thing to do.”

The money raised is split between Lifeline (40 per cent), the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation (40 per cent) and the Triple Zero Foundation (20 per cent).

Mr May said all three recipients provided lifesaving services enabled by the money raised by volunteers like Mr Lewis and Mr Araujo.

“You’ve got Peter McCallum Cancer Foundation leading the charge in cancer research… they are a top tier cancer research facility.

“With the cost of living crisis and some global issues, the number of people that are calling Lifeline has gone up and each one of those call takers need to be trained,” he said.

With each phone call to Lifeline costing $39, the funds provided to Lifeline allow the organisation to make 10,250 additional calls in a year.

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 wineries 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

But Mr Lewis said the MFSC’s impact goes far beyond the money raised, as it also helps strengthen the connection between CFA volunteers.

“It’s great being able to participate with the guys and girls from not only our brigade, but from the brigades across our district.

“Everybody from across districts and from across the state… we’re like one big family. We support each other. We all come together as one,” Mr Lewis said.

use some help.”

a pending

winemaking as per usual.

“There have been several ownership changes for our brand in the past, and despite

has remained of really high

our

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

Lions lend a helping hand

By Gabriella Vukman

In Healesville, the spirit of community cooperation has once again proven to be rife and robust, with the local Lions Club helping out Healesville High School with a $2142 cheque.

Presented to the school on Monday, 22 June, the cheque was funded by an old bank account belonging to the former Leo’s Club, a joint initiative between the Lions Club and Healesville High School.

After discovering a dormant account, the Lions Club opted to donate the funds to the high school to support future initiatives.

Principal at Healesville High School Allan Rennick said he was grateful for the Lions Club’s charitable contribution.

“The Lions Club are very generous,” he said.

“Even though the school raised the money a long time ago as part of the Leo’s Club, they would probably have been well within their rights to keep the money, but instead, they gave it to us.”

“I want to thank the Lions Club for everything they do.”

Mr Rennick said while the school doesn’t want to always be seen to have their “hands out” , he noted that sometimes the best compliment the school can pay local service clubs is to accept their generosity.

“We couldn’t do this sort of thing without all of our service clubs and local businesses.”

“We want to be able to help our local clubs as well.”

“We see ourselves as a hub for the community, but we are also reaching out to community groups for help.”

PE, Health and Outdoor Education Teacher at Healesville High School, Thomas Sullivan, is in charge of directing the school’s newfound pocket money.

The first project the school is directing the funds towards is a Values Shop, where students earn chronicles (points) for displaying the school’s core values of Community, Opportunity, Respect, and Endeavour.

Students can save up their chronicles and use them to get items from the Values Shop.

“We already had a school-wide positive behaviour system in place, where students got positive recognition through an email sent home, and points allocated to their school profile,” Mr Sullivan said.

“But our new Values Shop connects that with something tangible that they can actually resonate with.”

The programme was kick-started with funding from the Bendigo Community Bank, with the school planning to use some of the Lions Club’s donations to keep it up and running.

Students can visit the Values Shop on Monday and Thursday lunchtimes.

“They can come in and check their compass profile and see how many positive Chronicles they have got and how many they require to get an item from the Values Shop,” Mr Sullivan said. A soccer ball might require 10 Chronicles, some school stationery, or a zoopa doopa might only require one.”

For new students without a large accumulation of Chronicles, the school also holds a weekly raffle, providing opportunities for students to

win items from the Values Shop.

The majority of the Lions Clubs’ donation will go towards setting up a new school kitchen garden project.

“It’s a totally new project that we have had to clear some land for and set up fences and install garden beds and get soil and plants, so the costs run up pretty quickly,” Mr Sullivan said.

House Captain and year twelve student at Healesville High School, Lindsay Mackenzie, helped to found the Values Shop and the kitchen garden programme.

“These projects are important because they help expand our school and provide new opportunities for younger students,” she said.

“I am really excited to see how the Values Shop turns out.”

“It is good that it has the opportunity to grow

Students bolster Wandin CFA

By Oliver Winn

Wandin Yallock Primary School’s squad of environment leaders bolstered its local fire brigade with a $282 donation on 19 June.

The donation came after the school’s Enviro Squad surpassed its own $500 fundraising goal recently and the team chose to support the Wandin CFA.

Wandin CFA captain Darryn Gross said the brigade was grateful for the school’s benevolence during dire economic times.

“We are really grateful as a community group to be receiving any donation from anyone at any time. We are really appreciative for what you can give, not necessarily just to CFA, but to your local community group,” Mr Gross said.

The school’s Enviro Squad is an award-winning contingent of staff and student leaders paving the way towards the school’s sustainability goals.

Wandin Yallock Primary School co-principal Ben Straughair said they’d raised more money than they’d expected, and chose to donate it to the Wandin CFA.

“Off the back of winning an award for such a great idea, they wanted to continue the momentum. So as a team, they set a goal for $500 fundraising before the end of last year.

“They exceeded that target, and they ended up raising $782.50,” he said.

The children raised money through the State Government’s Container Deposit Scheme Victoria (CDS Vic), where they pick up cans for cash.

Ms Straughair said it was evident the children were proud of what they’d done as a couple of Wandin CFA members received the donation.

“When handing over the money and seeing the appreciation from Matty and the other CFA members, you could tell [the school children] felt not only proud of themselves but proud of the school as well,” Mr Straughair said.

It was a case of simply returning the kindness that the Wandin CFA has offered the area since its formation in 1943.

“With already a strong connection with the CFA, we do have them up there, we have family members part of that CFA, so they thought it would be a great idea to donate to them, as they

and become something that future generations of students will enjoy.”

In order to tailor the Values Shop to match the wants of students, Ms Mackenzie facilitated conversations with other house leaders and Home Groups to garner what items the students wanted to see in the shop.

“We could have just stacked the shop with school supplies, but actually having the students suggest some different things made a big difference,” she said.

Ms Mackenzie’s favourite Values Shop items are the vouchers.

“The vouchers allow students to go out and pick something that they would like,” she said.

“Some of them are food-based, which I love because I am a massive foodie, but other things are little gifts from local shops and even some-

thing from Kmart.”

President of the Healesville Lions Club, Gary Butler, said the club was delighted to hand the funds over.

“The previous students were the ones that raised the money, so it is important that it goes back to the school for the worthy projects they are working on,” Mr Butler said.

“We have got some great students in Healesville, and they are role models for the future, so we need to support them.”

The Lions Club of Healesville has been operating for 65 years and has been supporting schools in the town since its inception.

“We are supportive of schools because the youth of today are our future,” he said.

“We really have to be there to support them and help them in any way we can.”

do things for us at our school as well.”

Mr Gross said it was especially notable during a time where any organisation is feeling stretched for funding.

“They felt it relevant to donate that money to the Wandin Fire Brigade, which was really good, considering that the school themselves are fighting for financial assistance to uplift in the current economic climate,” he said.

CFA brigades are funded through the yearly Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP) but there’s only limited places

available for the fund.

Mr Gross said small donations like these took extra weight off the volunteer firefighters’ backs.

“While we do get a proportion of funding from state government, the majority of CFA brigades’ finances are through fundraising or grants to be able to uplift our operational response equipment, our training areas, and provide that return on investment back to the community.

“They’re supporting us in being able to help them on their worst day,” Mr Gross said.

Learning project embraced

By Mahlea Douglas

On Saturday, 27 June, a group of Healesville High School students returned from their journey at the School for Student Leadership (SSL), a program liaison teacher Julian Holland has been sending students to since 2018.

The School for Student Leadership is an eightto-nine-week experience for Year 9 students in Victorian public education.

Within this program, there are four campuses, all immersed in the natural environment. Students take part in a diverse range of outdoor activities and are taught about caring for the surrounding land.

They spend their time living and learning in the same building, surrounded by up to 45 year nine students from both rural and urban schools.

Every student learns essential life skills and independence.

Erin Cottell, Sophie Grimson, Cooper Monkman, Rhashidi Brown, and Mahlea Douglas attended last year’s program at the Alpine Campus in Dinner Plain.

Mr Holland notices a substantial change with each group he sends and said, “The students come back more confident and with strong leadership qualities.”

One of the students who attended last year’s programme wished to remain anonymous but shared, “It made me so much more grateful for everything that I did.”

“The programme made me learn so much and learn so much about myself and the people around me. We all formed strong connections,” they told Star Mail.

Despite noting the many positives about the programme, Mr Holland said it is often difficult for students to adjust back into their regular lives at home.

“When the students come back, it can be quite difficult for the kids to settle back into reality, because there’s such a routine down there, and they actually become a real family down there,” Mr

Holland said.

A major part of the programme’s curriculum is making a community learning project and bringing it back to your school and town. Last year’s group decided to make hampers for families who struggled to provide necessities during the Easter holidays.

As part of this project, the students contacted multiple local businesses, which generously offered vouchers and items.

Both the Healesville High and Alpine School teachers offered the students crucial support and advice.

The student who attended last year’s programme said, “They were awesome. They gave advice, they gave ideas, and they encouraged all of our ideas.”

In the final week of term one 2026, a bake sale and free dress day were hosted at Healesville High School.

Students handed over the raised funds to the school’s Wellbeing Team.

Hampers were successfully put together and delivered to families in time for the holidays to begin.

A student said, “It felt really beautiful, really

nice, knowing that we worked so hard on something together, and we got the community involved, and we were able to give back to the community.”

Having now returned home from the Gnurad campus, the newest batch of SSL students plan on visiting the local primary school to teach them about how vital friendships are.

They will shortly begin reading books and making friendship bracelets with the Preps, Grade 1s and 2s.

Every Year 9 student at Healesville High School has the opportunity to apply to the SSL programme, and it is quite a competitive process. They must make an expression of interest, then write an application letter.

After the teachers have read over the application, students may be requested to take part in an interview.

When selecting at most six students for this experience, Mr Holland focuses on people he sees as potential future leaders.

“We’d love them to be future school captains,” he said.

“They’re with all like-minded kids that basically are the cream of the crop.”

With seven years of this opportunity at Healesville High School, it is exciting to see how beneficial this is for both students and locals.

Suite of maintenance funding for Yarra Valley schools

By Oliver Winn

Schools in the Yarra Valley scored themselves some maintenance funding for crucial upgrades from the State Government on 22 June.

The June 2026 round of the government’s Planned Maintenance Program (PMP) saw roughly $1.34m allocated to fund the upkeep of four schools’ shelter-in-place buildings.

Yarra Junction Primary School received the biggest share of the funding at around $672,500, and its principal said the funds would ensure the school’s shelter-in-place (SIP) building is kept up to standard.

“This Planned Maintenance Program funding ensures we can carry out important maintenance work as custodians of the assets we manage on behalf of our community and keeping the school safe and welcoming for students,” Yarra Junction Primary School principal Lisa Rankin said.

Woori Yallock Primary School will have roughly $252,900 to spend on maintenance works while Gladysdale Primary School was allocated just $13,685, which will also go towards painting.

Gladysdale Primary School principal Felicity Curnow said “safe and modern” learning spaces were a must for students across the state.

“It’s important to me as a school principal that all Victorian students and staff have safe and modern learning spaces and that’s exactly what this Planned Maintenance Program funding

helps deliver,” she said.

Woori Yallock Primary School principal Oliver Thockloth said the funds meant the school’s resources can be poured into learning.

“Whether it’s for drainage or roofing, replacing switchboards or maintaining emergency shelters, Planned Maintenance Program funding means we can focus on learning and not worry as much about maintenance.”

Every school at risk of bushfire in Victoria have a designated SIP building which provides a last resort shelter option to protect against hazards and threats.

A SIP building is used when safe evacuation is no longer an option, giving people at the school a safe place to stay until the event is over.

Further up the Valley, Healesville High School was given just over $400,000 which will again fund maintenance for its shelter-in-place building, but it’ll also be used for revarnishing and roofing works.

Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said the State Government was investing in “four great local schools to make sure they have up-to-

$252,900 in funding for maintenance

date facilities for families in the Upper Yarra who rely on them every day.”

Other schools in the Yarra Ranges and Dandenong Ranges received PMP funding. They were Gembrook Primary School ($445,847), Kallista Primary School ($869,585) and Birmingham Primary School ($118,285).

Rotary awards all round

By Gabriella Vukman and Mahlea Douglas

Monday, 22 June saw the Rotary Club of Healesville celebrate its entrance into a new chapter with a changeover and awards ceremony to welcome charter member Terry Hill, who took over the presidency from Sally Piper.

Many attended the handover event, which took place at the Healesville RSL over a good pub feed.

“The highlight of the evening was the community involvement, the awarding of two Paul Harris Fellowships and the announcement of an exciting community project,” shared new president Terry Hill.

Many announcements were made during the event, including that in 2027, Healesville Rotary will be teaming up with the annual Connecting Communities Festival to spread the Rotary Against Domestic Violence message.

Festival coordinator Catherine Nolan said that after speaking with Mr Hill, they were both looking to raise awareness around domestic violence and promote a safer community.

Next year, they plan to run a parade that the whole town can get involved in. It will be rainbow-themed, and they hope to have every demographic of the community involved.

“We’re really hoping through the parade to have every demographic of our community because the LGBTQIA plus community and the disabled community and women are the most vulnerable to sexual violence,” Ms Nolan said.

“Rotary Against Domestic Violence is Australia-wide. It’s a really fantastic initiative that we want to really support.”

Ms Nolan loved Mr Hill’s idea of keeping communities safe through the festival, while raising awareness to put an end to domestic violence.

“I’m over the moon because I’m personally really passionate to help change the statistics,” Ms Nolan mentioned.

According to Ms Nolan, the Connecting Community Festival intends to be something many community groups can join in on and will be “an umbrella for people to come in under and do what they want”

The Rotary club has contributed to the festival in the past, last year organising the “Marvellous March Masquerade dance.”

Ms Nolan and the Rotary Club are working together to write a grant application to help fund the running of the parade on the Saturday of the two-day festival.

Along with focusing on their Rotarians Against Domestic Violence initiative, the club will also continue to prioritise the production and distribution of the community directory.

With his new presidency, Mr Hill also read his own rendition of the classic tale of “The Little Red Hen” and introduced a new mantra: “Be proactive, positive, and happy.”

While many thank you gifts and prizes were

exchanged during the event, the handing out of two Paul Harris Fellowship awards took the cake.

The Paul Harris Fellowship award is one of the highest in Rotary, commending an individual’s substantial contributions to the Rotary Organisation’s humanitarian and educational programs.

Councillor Fiona McAllister attended the event and was one of the Paul Harris Fellowship recipients, recognised for her support of Rotary through her role as a councillor for the Yarra Ranges.

Ms McAllister said she was excited to support Rotary in their new initiatives and will continue to enjoy seeing the variety of work they will be undertaking in the next year.

“I am definitely very keen to support the project around community safety and reduced domestic violence in any way I can. It just shows

the incredible mix of work and impact that Rotary has,” she said.

Each year, Cr McAllister is invited to attend the Rotary events, with the changeover dinner being of particular importance to her. Being awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship renders this year’s ceremony of particular significance to her.

The award came as a surprise to Cr McAllister. It felt very rewarding for her as she comes from a Rotary family. Her father and grandfather were both lifelong Rotarians.

“To be awarded something like this is very moving and very special. It feels really significant, something to feel really proud of,” Ms McAllister said.

“It’s a really important night to celebrate the work of the outgoing president, Sally, who did an amazing job, and to celebrate Terry’s introduction as the new president,” Cr McAllister men-

tioned.

Long-serving member Barbara Dixon was the second recipient of the Paul Harris Fellowship and was described on the evening as a “truly outstanding Rotarian”

Both Cr McAllister and Ms Nolan congratulated Mr Hill and Ms Piper on their changeover and leadership.

“It’s wonderful that Terry, after 48 years, is coming back. I think it’s really nice for him to finish off where he started,” Ms Nolan said.

The Club’s new board consists of: President Terry Hill, President Elect and Vice President Ian Vine, Secretary Cheryl Chippendall, Youth Director Ian Tinney, Club Service Director Robert Chippendall, Community Service Director Ben Lancaster, Vocational Service Director Roger Clarkson, and International Service Director Clifron Maberly.

Letters of gratitude to Healesville Hospital for service

By Gabriella Vukman

In a world that puts much emphasis on what is going wrong, one Yarra Ranges local took the time to recognise one particular thing that is going right .

From the moment Selby resident Laura Cameron walked through the doors of Healesville Hospital on a crisp June day she immediately became aware that she was in good hands.

Blown away by the service and attention to detail, Ms Cameron said she could not believe that such a small, regional hospital would offer such ‘impeccable’ aid.

After undergoing her medical procedure at the hospital, Ms Cameron’s gratitude for the help she received compelled her to write a letter to the Star Mail with the aim of thanking the hospital staff.

“I wanted to be the voice piece and say thank you on behalf of so many other people,” she said.

“What they are doing is absolutely amazing and it really does impact a lot of people’s lives.”

“I just really wanted them to know how grateful so many people are because we dont often get the chance to tell them.”

Having worked with hospitals for years running her charity as ‘The Coffee Fairy’ , Ms Cameron said she was pleasantly surprised by what it was like being on “The other side of the bed.”

“Healesville Hospital felt very homely.”

“I don’t know if it was because it is more of a rural, community hospital, but it was just lovely

and so relaxed.”

“Even from walking through the door from the security to every single team member was just absolutely lovely,” she said.

The Coffee Fairy is a charity established by Ms Cameron in 2015, as a way to give back.

Ms Cameron wrote in her letter that “The idea was simple: to deliver coffees to patients, carers and frontline healthcare workers.”

“It was a small gesture to brighten someone’s day, offer a warm hug in a cup, and thank the people who dedicate their live to caring for others,” Ms Cameron’s letter read.

“This time, however I foun myself on the other side of the hospital bed, and what I experienced at Healesville Hospital was nothing short of extraordinary,” she wrote.

The rest of Ms Cameron’s letter read as follows:

“From the moment I arrived until the moment I left, I was treated with kindness, dignity and genuine compassion. Every interaction reminded me why Australia’s public healthcare system is something we should all be incredibly proud of.

There are a handful of people who deserve special recognition.

To Gilly, whose warmth and reassurance made me feel safe. To Angela, whose caring smile, and warm soul immediately put me at ease. To Shaz, who could light up any room and whose compassion never wavered. To Kirsten, whose attention to detail and thoughtful care made such a difference. To Rachel, the coordinator, who made me feel like more than just another patient. And

to Kirsty, the ANUM, whose calm leadership and caring nature were evident throughout my stay.

These remarkable women weren’t simply doing their jobs, they were caring for people during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. They listened. They reassured. They encouraged. And they transformed what could have been a frightening experience into one that felt safe, supported and deeply human.

As someone who has spent years delivering coffees into hospitals and thanking our frontline workers, I thought I understood just how hard they worked. But experiencing hospital as a patient gave me an entirely new perspective.

These incredible nurses and healthcare professionals don’t just provide medical care, they provide hope, comfort and humanity. They work long hours, often under enormous pressure, yet somehow continue to greet every patient with patience, empathy and a smile.

Our frontline healthcare workers are absolute gold.

They are the quiet heroes of our communities. They rarely seek recognition. They simply turn up every day and give so much of themselves to care for complete strangers, often placing the needs of others before their own.

Healesville Hospital should be immensely proud of its team. The culture of kindness, professionalism and genuine care shines through every corridor. Every member of the team contributes to creating an environment where patients feel seen, valued and genuinely cared for. They are

a credit not only to the hospital, but to Victoria’s public health system.

To Gilly, Angela, Shaz, Kirsten, Rachel, Kirsty, and every member of the medical, nursing, administration, catering, cleaning and support teams, Thank you.

Thank you for reminding me what compassion truly looks like.

Thank you for showing me that our public healthcare system is built on extraordinary people.

And thank you for caring for our community with such heart.

If there’s one thing I hope people take from my experience, it’s this: behind every hospital door are people whose kindness changes lives in ways they may never fully realise. They deserve our gratitude, our respect, our support and maybe even a warm coffee, not just during moments of crisis, but every single day.

Because while hospitals are built with bricks and mortar, they are held together by people with extraordinary hearts.

With heartfelt gratitude, Laura Cameron.”

Now back at home in Selby, Ms Cameron reflected on the function of Australia’s medical system.

“We are really lucky that we do have these wonderful benefits,” she said.

“At the end of the day, we do have a great medical system that we get to lean on as Australians, and we shouldn’t take it for granted.”

Go wild and visit the zoo

On a stunning 12 ha property with sweeping views to Mt Buller and beyond is a very special place where Dr Doolittle dreams of talking to the animals regularly come true.

A fabulous day out for the whole family, and one of the best kept secrets of Victoria’s High Country, the Mansfield Zoo is home to all kinds of Australian and exotic animals.

Once inside the gates, discover a surprising and magical place where kids can interact

with and hand feed a large variety of animals like the kangaroos and deer and guinea pigs that roam freely.

The zoo is also home to a colony of Meerkats as well as Marmosets and Capuchin monkeys, llamas and alpacas, wombats, a variety of birds including red tail black cockatoos and peacocks, water buffalo and antelope.

There are also three magnificent African lions, including two, rare white lions (of only

100 in the world!), and visitors of all ages can experience the thrill of being up close to these majestic creatures on a daily feeding tour of these as well as other animals at the zoo. Don’t forget to watch out for Zambezi, our Zebra, coming soon to Mansfield Zoo.

It’s an ideal place for large family gatherings with lovely, undercover places to picnic and barbecue. And for a truly unique family experience, there are gorgeous campsites to

spend the whole night under the stars and literally wake up to the sounds of the jungle. Mansfield Zoo’s Bronwyn and Dave and their dedicated team welcome visitors every day from 10am to 6pm, except for Christmas Day. It’s a perfect way to introduce children to the beauty and diversity of the animal kingdom in a safe, relaxed and picturesque environment.

Lion feeding @ 1.30pm (followed by Meerkat feeding) Visitors can feed the Kangaroos, Llamas, Deer, Emus & more!! Enquire about

Over Night Camping

Opportunities abound

By Oliver Winn

A community house in the Yarra Ranges encouraged locals to test the waters through 26 free “taste tester” sessions this winter.

It’s called the Wellness Ways program and it takes place at the Seville Community House from 22 June to 2 August.

With a wide range of classes, Seville Community House manager Stacie Adams said there was something for everyone.

“We got a range of different exercise classes, art classes, mental health sessions, a whole lot of different stuff that people can have a look at,” she said.

“On the back of that, they can decide if they liked it or not and then see what might be good for them,” Ms Adams said.

The classes aim to provide free opportunities for people as cost of living strains limit what locals can take part in during their free time.

“You might be able to find a little bit of money in your budget to put aside for the one thing you’re doing.

“But when you’re trying to find what that thing is, it can be really hard to keep paying for a whole lot of different things until you find it,” Ms Adams said.

Those looking to get physical can sharpen their boxing skills, gently work the body with Tai Chi or break some moves and sweat at dance exercise classes.

Meanwhile, a range of mental health sessions around understanding stress, supporting better sleep and doing breathwork are available.

Arts classes covering watercolour painting, mosaics and quilling also provide a chance for locals to get creative.

It can be hard to get out of your own bubble sometimes, so the Seville Community House has made the classes free of commitment and cost.

“This is a fairly low-effort way to get involved in something. It’s not a huge commitment if you’re feeling a little bit nervous,” Ms Adams said.

Participants will also experience the Seville Community House’s warm and welcoming atmosphere to boot, though there’s no expectation to stay around for a chat afterwards.

Ms Adams encouraged people to give a class they haven’t heard of before a try.

“It’s might be something that they enjoy and then would like to find out more about and

might be able to use again in their future,” she said.

“The other part of this is that they’re all sort of once-off sessions. There’s no requirement

Young composer makes Forbes

By Tanya Steele

Travelling an unconventional route to recognition, a young Melbourne pianist and composer has been recognised amongst 300 others across the Asia Pacific for making an impact in his field.

The young Aussie musician who now calls the Dandenong Ranges home was named on the Forbes 30 under 30 list for Asia on 28 May.

The list is published annually in America and Asia by Forbes magazine and recipient Cameron Segal said the recent accolade has left him feeling good and it has been a nice way to feel recognised within his industry.

“I work in classical music, and I’ve been composing predominantly solo piano pieces in the more neoclassical space,” he said.

The 29-year-old came to his industry in a less conventional manner and said a lot of people in his field usually study from a young age and follow on with music studies in college.

“I’m someone who learned piano as a kid, but then picked it up mostly in my adult life,” he said.

On being recognised on the Forbes list, Mr Segal said it is positive to be seen at this level and that the journey to his success was mainly through streaming platforms that grew his audience.

“I was able to grow my audience and gain traction in that way,” he said.

A composer from a young age, Mr Segal said he got into neoclassical music when he was studying commerce in Melbourne.

“When I was in primary school, I would always just mess around on the piano, but I took a step away during high school,” he said.

“I would listen to piano music when I was studying and was listening to a lot of different players through streaming platforms,” he said.

Through COVID, the artist went from improvising and composing his own tracks to releasing them online.

“It picked up from there,” he said.

Later, Mr Segal moved overseas to England for a year and said the first thing he bought was a piano, and while there, he began releasing music part-time while working as a project manager.

Dedicating more and more time to composition, piano went from a creative outlet and side hustle into full-time work.

“It got to a point where I was able to turn it into a full career,” he said.

Using some strategy, Mr Segal used different approaches to gain online traction on different streaming platforms and said he tried to get onto editorial playlists as a way to get played. Editorial lists are curated by in-house staff at streaming platforms and can place an artist’s songs in wellplayed music playlists worldwide.

Mr Segal released his first track in October 2025 through the classical music label Deutsche Grammophon, which is a well-known record label globally. He said he has built up more than 75 million streams across the major streaming platforms, including one he created for specialised tracks for sub-genres like baby lullabies.

In the last year, the pianist has moved back to Australia and settled in the Yarra Ranges and said he has been enjoying having a studio so close to nature and enjoys the local forest areas near his home.

After time spent in the neoclassical space, Mr Segal said he now wants to branch into new styles like ambient and cinematic works and begin more live performance.

“It’s pivoting away from solo piano, but I’m keen to develop my skills in other genres and do collaborations with different artists too,” he said.

Making the Forbes list will see him join other creative talents and young entrepreneurs for an awards ceremony at the end of the year, and Mr Segal said it does feel quite special to make the list.

“There are really outstanding individuals from all over Asia and Australia, I’m looking forward to meeting them.” he said.

that you know what you’re doing… everyone’s coming in fresh just giving it a shot,” she said.

The program is funded by the

nity House was “very grateful” for the funding. Those who wish to take part in the Wellness Ways program must register through the link: shorturl.at/jgRgX.

Wandin left 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 Saint-Saens, 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].

“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

Sleuth aims to keep audiences guessing

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 Back-

way 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.

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.

This show gives local people an opportunity to see an “edge of your seat thriller”, something a

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.”

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 more than once in any row, column or box.

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)

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and 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

SAGA SEED SKIM SLED STAB TAPE TEST TYPE

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.

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 within walking distance of Belgrave Central,

the property offers the perfect balance of convenience and privacy. An array of cafes, boutique shops, schools, and essential amenities are all within easy reach, while the home’s secluded position ensures a peaceful retreat where you can escape the demands of everyday life and enjoy the serenity of your surroundings. ●

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

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. ●

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 yearround 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 setting to enjoy your morning coffee while observing the abundant birdlife. The property is also home to a variety of native wildlife, with regular visits from echidnas, possums, and wombats adding to its unique charm and connection to nature.

Offering exceptional privacy, expansive acreage, and outstanding family living in a highly convenient location, this is a rare opportunity to secure a substantial lifestyle property without compromising on accessibility. ●

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

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Poetry 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 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.

Artist garden emerges for solstice event

By Tanya Steele

A special project debuted for this year’s lantern parade in the laneway tucked into the side of Belgrave and created a little walk of wonder for those who discovered it on Saturday, 20 June.

The Belgrave Lantern Parade was bigger than ever in 2026, and local traders and volunteers are still reeling from the massive turnout for the parade, as a fixed lantern art installation in Blacksmith’s Lane landed for the first time.

Belgrave Traders President Jeremy Angerson said the weather did not deter a single soul on the night.

“There were over 10,000 people in attendance, and over 1,500 community members paraded this year,” he said.

“People came from far and wide to an event that just gets bigger and better each year.”

Despite a growing grey cloud on the horizon, the hill community gathered and rallied in massive numbers for the 2026 parade, despite what seemed like foreboding skies.

Local business owner Alex Palmer said Belgrave comes alive on the winter solstice, and it reminds everyone what an incredibly awesome community we have out in the hills.

“It’s a massive undertaking, and we’d like to personally thank everyone involved,” he said.

A highlight this year was the Blacksmith’s Lane Art Project, which saw the walk-through lane decorated from end to end with the help of local school kids.

Titled “An Artist’s Garden” , the project engaged local children and families to create a hanging

mural of colourful, whimsical and fantastical creations.

“It was a rare sight to behold,” said Mr Angerson.

Nikki Wellington, along with fellow artists Lucy Beach and Lisa von Miller, facilitated the lantern-making extravaganza with The Patch Primary School children, who delivered colourful creations of just about anything you could, would or might find in an everyday garden.

Ms Wellington said the group wanted to enhance the parade, and that led to the idea of activating the space in Blacksmith’s Lane.

“We wanted to do an artist garden and have a fixed installation of lanterns in a space that doesn’t normally get lit up,” she said.

The trio worked all the way through term two to get the project finished, working with students from prep to grade six.

“It looked beautiful,” she said.

Lantern making is not as easy as one would think, and Ms Wellington said as the term lessons progressed they taught the kids how to structure as they each created a themed lantern in 3D. The kids had to figure out how to have their creations form in 3D, but with the challenge to have them sit flat on the fence wall in the laneway.

“It is really tricky if you’re only little,’ she said.

“Some of them were phenomenal, I was blown away.”

As 96-year-old Baba Desi led out the parade, with fire twirlers, belly dancers, and other schools from across the region also participating in the parade for the first time and bringing their own creations to the special evening.

“It was a great vibe all around, despite the rain and amazing to see Desi still leading the parade, in his psychedelic chariot,” said Mr Palmer.

The Patch Primary School alone used around 600 glue sticks, 30 rolls of baking paper and 60 rolls of masking tape to bring their creations to life, and youth talent featured across the festivities.

Mr Anderson said some of the other highlights were the artisan market and youth music stage.

“The artisan market sparkled and shimmered, and the all-youth, all-female vocal line-up shone with talent,” he said.

“The scouts sold out of marshmallows at their beloved fire pit.”

Next year is the parade’s 20th Anniversary, and the event is cherished across the Dandenong Range and Mr Palmer said it provides a much needed boost to the local economy, and was a great community effort.

“It’s amazing to have everyone come together, enjoy the night, and bring the magic, to a magical town,” he said.

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.

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

From my From my desk

Federal Member for Casey

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 plot as Wonder Woman was in Batman v Superman. 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.

Anastasopoulos a winner

By Ron Hottes

There was no women’s golf on Monday for a number of reasons. Some of our ladies were away, there has been a bit of illness about, and for some it was simply too cold. Hopefully we’ll see everyone back on the course soon.

Wednesday’s midweek competition was a Par event.

While Par isn’t the most popular format with many of our members, Ian Garside Jnr produced a solid square round to take the win on a countback from Noel Cross.

Both players have been enjoying consistent form recently, so congratulations to Junior on the victory.

A number of players finished on minus one and all received a golf ball, which was pleasing to see.

The nearest-the-pin (NTP) winners were Noel Cross on the third and again on the very challenging 15th.

Well done, Noel!

Ian Garside Jnr claimed the NTP on the ninth, while Stueart Hawke took home the honours on the 12th. It’s great to see Stueart back playing regularly.

Saturday’s Stableford competition produced the best score of the week, with Bill Anastasopoulos winning with an excellent 39 points.

Shane Ford finished just one point behind on 38, while four players shared 34 points. Golf balls were awarded to everyone from 38 down to 34 points.

The NTP winners on Saturday were Gary Vollmer on the third, finishing just 122 centimetres from the hole, Mark Henderson on the difficult fifth with a shot to 112 centimetres, Lee Creedy on the ninth, Dale Sund on the 12th, and my young mate Angus Hall on the tough 15th. Well played to all.

Looking ahead, this Friday, 3 July, four of our talented junior golfers will represent Warburton

On Friday 3 July, four talented junior golfers will represent Warburton against the

against the Healesville RSL/RACV group.

The team will consist of Charlie Cochran, Jaden Lever, Brady Withers and Sam Hyndman. Unfortunately, we were due to send six play-

Trades & Services General Notices

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ers, but Zach Bower is away on a family holiday, while Manny Humphris is sidelined with a broken collarbone sustained playing that silly game called football!

We’ll have the results of the match in next week’s report. Good luck to our young golfers— we’re hoping they’ll bring home a win for Warburton!

Hoddles Creek hockey starlet seeking support

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.

Wesburn JFC’s new draw coach sessions a hit with players

By Oliver Winn

Wesburn’s young footballers combined football with cartoons through a series of innovative Draw Coach Sessions over May and June.

It came from Wesburn Junior Football Club’s new partnership with the popular Millgrove-based cartoonist Nick Love, who acted as “draw coach” for five weeks.

Wesburn Junior Football Club grants manager Josh Plunkett said it was part of the club’s celebrations for its 10th anniversary for girls’ footy and 70th anniversary overall as a club.

“We wanted to have a celebration wall where the kids could add their spin on it, and show what the club meant to them,” he said.

Mr Love guided players to draw on stickers shaped as footballs for the celebration wall while also teaching them other drawing skills.

A set of goals will soon be painted on the celebration wall and the football stickers will be placed within them, as if they were flying through them.

Mr Plunkett said the draw coach sessions were a hit among the young players, even if some “didn’t have an artistic bone in their body”.

“Even if they weren’t that good at drawing, they still had a really good time doing it. There are a lot of kids in there that are actually quite talented in that space as well.

“So the feedback was that, yeah, there are kids who will now pursue drawing as a hobby.”

As far as Mr Love knows, Wesburn is the first football club in Australia to do “draw coach” sessions. He said it transformed the club from being footy-focused to more of a youth hub.

“The thing that really appealed to me about Josh is that he wanted to be more than just a footy club. There needs to be services that cater for kids on the fringes.

“That’s probably where I lie. I played one season of under 16s at Wessy and I was a seed. Every time I got the ball, I got planted in the ground,” he joked.

Mr Plunkett said he hoped the vision could attract youth of all interests, while also providing

the sports-inclined with an opportunity to try something new.

“We want to be a place where… it doesn’t matter what kids do as part of what their interests are, there’s somewhere that they can belong.

“It’s about not limiting our kids and giving them the opportunities to be bigger than what they are,” Mr Plunkett said.

The draw coach sessions were engaging and accessible, with a focus on “drawing together”

Mr Love said one game included having a player stand in front of the crowd with a blank canvas over their face. The crowd would then tell Mr Love what the player looked like and he’d attempt to redraw the player.

“I draw back into the face so, fundamentally,

you’ve got a real-life cartoon character standing there.

“But the clincher is… if it looks nothing like the person, it actually filters back into my messaging that, as a team, we’ve got to get to know everyone’s characteristics,” Mr Love said.

The Wesburn Junior Football Club have placed heavy emphasis on girls’ footy, fielding four girls’ sides and hosting a range of training programs aimed at retaining girl players once they leave for a senior club.

Breaking down gender norms is key to creating a positive atmosphere for girls getting into footy. Mr Love said the boys can also benefit from challenging the status quo.

“What I liked when I talked to the boys, is the

notion that it’s no longer a male-only club. I talked about [former Essendon AFL player] James Hird doing ballet.

“A lot of people would think, ‘Oh ballet is for girls.’ Ballet is what James Hird used to get his agility, balance and flexibility,” Mr Love said. He also pointed out the under-appreciated benefits drawing has on the children’s footballing skills.

“If we take on drawing, it might help our hand and eye coordination, it might help us see the bigger picture, it might help us de-stress from a game,” he said.

It also provides ways for children to bounce back from injuries, Mr Love said, as they could stay connected to the sport while they recover.

Mr Plunkett said the draw coach sessions were just a slice of what’s to come at the Wesburn Junior Football Club.

“That’s where the club’s head is at the moment – being a youth organisation that offers a variety of things for kids to do. We’re not one-dimensional and every kid feels included at our club.”

Many wins for Burras

By Alex Wood

At Gembrook on the weekend taking on Gembrook-Cockatoo. Some tough conditions for some with the U18s match being cancelled due to fog.

Emerson Woods and Kyle Ferguson both celebrated 100 games for the club.

Netball:

A Grade:

FT: Warburton-Millgrove def Gembrook-Cockatoo (57-34).

Best: Bianca Daniels, Selina Fotia and Bianca Daniels.

Goals: Lara Nathan (21), Bianca Daniels (35) and Selina Fotia (1).

B Grade:

FT: Warburton-Millgrove def by Gembrook-Cockatoo (33-55).

Best: Emerson Woods, Emily Hay and Gemma Langdon.

Goals: Tanner McCurdy (13), Cam Holland (8), Alex Woods (12).

C Grade:

FT: Warburton-Millgrove def Gembrook-Cockatoo (43-27).

Best: J’aime Lord, Mel Hancock and Nicole Winzer.

Goals: Alexandra Woods (18) and Mel Hancock (22), Tiahn Syme (3).

D Grade:

FT: Warburton-Millgrove def Gembrook-Cockatoo (19-15).

Best: Nicki Cole, Tamin Crunden and Chloe Biddle.

Goals: Tayah Humphrey (8), Maisy Toy (6), Amarli Weir (5).

U17:

FT: Warburton-Millgrove def Gembrook-Cockatoo (38-13).

Bests: Belle Syme, Rylee Bond and Charlotte Lord.

Goals: Maisy Toy (21), Belle Syme (10), Kayler Feim (7),

Football:

U18s:

Cancelled due to fog

Reserves:

FT: Warburton-Millgrove def by Gembrook-Cockatoo: 5.5 (35) - 11.3 (69).

Bests: Marcel Kocher, Dave Bedggood, Pat Quilty, Harry Rothwell, Kai Harrison, Ricky Andueza.

Goals: Marcel Kocher (1), Josh Read (1), Matt Sidari (1), Caelan Flynn (1), Damien Egan (1).

Women’s:

FT: Warburton-Millgrove def Pakenham: 14.11 (95) - 1.3 (9).

Bests: Emerson Woods, Shar Bextream, Scarlett Henderson, Madi Ward, Katie Ruehmer, Rach Maxwell.

Goals: Scarlett Henderson (8), Jas Enever (2), Madi Ward (1), Emerson Woods (2), Lucy Pritchard (1).

Seniors:

FT: Warburton-Millgrove def Gembrook-Cockatoo: 8.11 (59) - 4.6 (30).

Game stopped for 15mins into third quarter due to fog.

Best: Jack Farrugia (awarded Ian Del A Rue Medal), Liam Barnard, Mitch Gordon, Tyson Henry, Tom Baker and Josh Berenger.

Goals: Liam Barnard (1), Jack Farrugia (3), Lachlan Hewitt (2), Liam Westlake (2).

Another great weekend, despite the conditions. Wins for all netball, except B Grade and wins for all footy, but Reserves!

Onto the next weekend, heading over to Healesville.

Cool and cloudy conditions

By David Ball

Yarra Glen Match Report Round 11

The Yarra Glen seniors took on 2 nd placed Seville in cool and cloudy conditions at Seville.

The first quarter was a very even contest, with Seville converting their chances whilst the River Pigs missed a couple of set shots to be down by just 4 points at quarter time.

In the second quarter, Yarra Glen was winning the midfield battle and, if not for some errant kicking for goal, could have had more than their 3-point halftime lead.

Despite the good conditions, the third quarter was a real slog, and in a battle of the backlines, each team was only able to add a goal each.

Seville took their turn to kick badly for a goal and could have had more than their 1-point lead. Seville lifted their intensity in the last and in dominating clearances, were able to run away with a 14-point win.

Final Scores were: Yarra Glen 8.11 to Seville 10.13

Best Players: Jake Ferris, Daniel Reid, Aden Stares, Cooper Barbera, Aussie Smith, Luke DeGoldi. Goalkickers: Jared McCann 3, Josh Hawkins 3, Jake Ferris 1, Sam Wood 1.

The Yarra Glen reserves also faced a 2 nd placed Seville and started the game well.

The River Pigs were very competitive early, and it was only some late goals from Seville that had them 15 points up at quarter time.

Whilst for the balance of the game Seville did most of the scoring, the Yarra Glen boys contested well and put together some promising moves forward.

In a much improved performance, Yarra Glen found Seville just too quick and went down, with the final scores Yarra Glen 2.2 to Seville 14.15

Best Players: Dayne Fuss, Sean Kenyon, Michael Evans, Jonno Fraser, Zac Young, Calum Tucker. Goalkicker: Zac Young 2.

The Yarra Glen Under 18’s continue to show great improvement and in their battle with Seville, and after a slow start, kicked 4 late goals in the third quarter to be just 19 points down with great momentum going into the final quarter.

The boys kept trying in the last but found Seville difficult to contain.

Final Scores were: Yarra Glen 6.7 to Seville 14.11.

Best Players: Max Williams, Alex Toscano, Jungarla Hume, Robert Pavic, John Pavis, Dylan Shambrook.

Goalkickers: Max Williams 2, Brody Adams, Alex Toscano, Lachlan Rutherford and Hunter Beers 1 each.

The Yarra Glen Vets travelled to Gembrook on Friday night and whilst they went into quarter time a point up, they seemed to lack their normal spark and connection.

Facing a good team in Gembrook, they found themselves struggling to score and at the other end, couldn’t stop their opponents, Final Scores: Yarra Glen 2.9 to Gembrook 9.6.

Best Players: Damon Gilder, Jimmy Marks, Adam Robert, Dayne Downward, Brad McKenzie, Richard Gurney. Goalkicker: Richard Gurney 2.

Next week, all sides take on the powerful Pakenham teams at Yarra Glen. We expect to have Travis Cloke playing in the senior game against the undefeated ladder leaders.

Get along and see if the River Pigs can knock them off.

Aaron Mullett stepped into form against OlindaFerny Creek, scoring six. (File: 362388)

Wandin

prevail in top table clash

Wandin has sent a clear message to the competition, producing a commanding performance in a top-of-the-table clash against Olinda Ferny Creek under the best conditions seen in over a month.

With both sides coming into the game in strong form and naming quality line-ups, the opening exchanges were intense, as each team tested the other with positional changes to explore flexibility and depth across their lists.

Wandin’s pressure became the defining feature of the contest.

Their work rate through the middle third was outstanding, repeatedly forcing turnovers and allowing them to control territory and build scoreboard pressure.

By quarter time Wandin had edged ahead, and the gap widened steadily as their pressure and ball movement began to wear down Olinda Ferny Creek.

The home side led at every change, extending the margin to a 75–30 halftime advantage and stamping their authority after the main break.

Aaron Mullett was a standout in front of goal, finishing with an impressive six majors, while Cayden Black was as powerful as ever around the contest.

The final siren confirmed Wandin’s dominance with an 18.12 (120) to 8.11 (59) victory — a statement win that reinforces their position at the top of the ladder and sets the benchmark heading into the second half of the season.

A grade girls’ strong second quarter

By David Ball

The Yarra Glen netball girls took on the competition’s strongest combination in Seville, who had A and B Grades undefeated and their C and D grades in second position. The A-grade team put in one of their better performances for the year, and whilst they lost, they matched it with Seville in a strong second quarter and made Seville work hard in the other 3.

With a few injuries and unavailabilitys to cover, all teams, it was great to see all teams compete hard to make sure Seville had to earn their wins.

A Grade:

Final Scores were: Yarra Glen 37 to Seville 58

Best Players: Lara Wandin Collins, Kim Williams, Gemma Ryan

B Grade:

Final Scores were: Yarra Glen 24 to Seville 59 Best Players: Katelyn Vanderkolk, Ellen Brown, Kayla Collins

C Grade: Yarra Glen 10 to Seville 63

Best Players: Alex Bray, Abby Page, Ashleigh Wallace

D Grade: 13 to Seville 47

Best Players: Meaghan Carter, Molly Kehoe, Lily Dove

Football played in the fog and frost

By Sally Cunningham

Winter is well and truly here. While many of us are watching the World Cup play out under the American sun, the Healesville Soccer Club was keen as mustard to get back onto a foggy home pitch for another round of our favourite football.

Healesville Senior Men’s Premiers 3 – 2 Eastern Eels

A home game for the senior men against the Eastern Eels, with both teams sitting close on the ladder.

The first half was evenly matched until JJ broke through with a great goal at the 30-minute mark.

The Eels responded just before halftime, sending the teams into the break at 1–1.

Healesville came out firing in the second half and earned a deserved two-goal advantage after Jasper scored from close range, followed by a half-volley from David, assisted by Ethan, making it 3–1.

A defensive lapse three minutes later allowed the Eels to pull one back, but Healesville held strong to secure all three points.

Healesville Senior Men’s Reserves 2 – 1 Eastern Eels Reserves

The reserves were overdue for a win, and despite difficult pitch conditions, there were some excellent passages of play, especially from Healesville’s youth players.

Healesville took the lead at 16 minutes when Harry’s shot was fumbled by the Eels keeper, allowing Max to finish from the rebound.

The second goal came at 38 minutes, with Oshane slotting one home from Brian’s corner, giving Healesville a 2–0 lead at halftime.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Healesville dominating possession.

The Eels managed a goal midway through the half, but it wasn’t enough to stop Healesville taking a well-earned win.

Healesville Senior Women Div X 1 – 4 Yarra Valley The Healesville Reds continue to show up each week against teams often half their age, and although the results haven’t gone their way, their camaraderie and spirit are exceptional.

Last Saturday, Yarra Valley arrived short, giv-

ing Healesville an extra player.

The scores remained level for quite some time before Yarra Valley broke through with two quick goals before the break.

The second half saw Healesville push hard, and Jodie delivered a cracking cross that Debbie finished beautifully - Healesville’s much-anticipated and celebrated goal. Yarra Valley went on to win 4–1, but it was a strong contest with plenty to be proud of.

U15 Boys – Healesville 4 – 2 Yarra Valley

After a washout the previous weekend, this match was rescheduled to Wednesday night under lights at Healesville - a rare and exciting experience for the juniors.

With several players unavailable, four U14s stepped up to support.

The newcomers made an immediate impact, with Bodie scoring twice in the first 10 minutes, lifting the team’s energy.

A strong defensive effort from the back four and goalkeeper Joe kept the 2–0 lead intact at halftime.

Yarra Valley came out strong in the second half, scoring two quick goals to level the match.

But Healesville wasn’t done. Iggy produced a magnificent long-range strike to restore the lead, and after absorbing sustained pressure, Jules sealed the win with a cracking 25-yard goal.

A hard-fought and high-quality game.

U13 Boys – Peninsula Strikers 0 – 3 Healesville Panthers

A long drive to Frankston didn’t faze the Panthers, who were focused from the opening whistle and dominated the first half.

The midfield combination of Jake, Griff, Ben, and Ryder was outstanding.

The first goal was a team effort, finished by Ryder after a rebound.

Just before halftime, Louis whipped in a dangerous corner that was deflected into the net by the goalkeeper, giving Healesville a deserved 2–0 lead.

The second half had a different tempo, but Healesville added a third when Louis played a beautifully weighted pass to Ryder, who calmly slotted home his second to seal the win. U12

Hard earned first win had

By Adrian Timmermans

The Yarra Valley Soccer Club’s U15s celebrated their first win of the season on Saturday 27 June, defeating Mooroolbark 1-0 at home in cold but thankfully dry winter conditions.

The boys made a positive start, controlling possession from the opening whistle and creating several early opportunities.

While the finishing touch proved elusive in the first half, Yarra Valley looked the more likely side, with Mooroolbark’s defence working hard to repel repeated attacks.

The visitors created a couple of chances of their own, including a shot that drifted just wide, but the teams went into the break locked at 0-0.

The second half continued in much the same fashion, with Yarra Valley enjoying the majority of possession and continuing to create chances.

After several near misses, the breakthrough finally arrived when Archer collected a well-directed throw-in, burst through the defensive line and calmly cut the ball back across goal for Leo, who made no mistake in finishing to give Valley a deserved 1-0 lead.

Yarra Valley continued to apply pressure for the remainder of the match before the final whistle confirmed a hard-earned and well-deserved first victory of the season.

Healesville Reds

The U12 home derby saw the Diamonds quickly switch into black tops to avoid confusion - though it still kept the coach guessing early on.

The Diamonds entered as underdogs but came in with a plan against their friends and rivals, the Reds.

Tilly opened the scoring for the Reds just 30 seconds before halftime. Both teams pushed hard in the second half, but the Reds added another to secure a 2–0 win.

U10 Girls – Blackburn 0 – 6 Healesville Dingos

On a frosty morning in Blackburn, the fierce Dingos arrived ready for battle, despite missing much loved teammate Jessie - now out for the season with a broken clavicle and joining coach Carly on the injury bench.

Shiloh opened the scoring early, followed by two goals from Eleanor.

At 3–0, the mercy rule came into effect.

After the break, Blackburn pushed hard, making for an exciting contest.

Strong defence from Romilly, supported by Issy, fed the ball forward to Addi, who scored three more goals in the second half.

Quinnie came on with huge energy and excellent footwork, helping set up play.

A convincing and well-earned win.

U10 Boys – Maroondah United FC Blue 2 – 5 Healesville Rangers

A competitive match at Silcock Reserve saw Healesville come out on top.

Early goals from Logan and Milos gave the Rangers the advantage, but MUFC responded with two of their own to level the score just before halftime.

Healesville continued to press in the second half, with Jude scoring from outside the area.

Ryder added a fourth before Milos smashed home his second to make it 5–2.

The most pleasing aspect was the boys’ selflessness - their instinct to look up, find teammates, and play for each other.

A proud moment for the whole squad.

Another clean sweep of wins for our U/8’s boys and girls at home and away wraps up another week of mud, sweat, and goals as the juniors and women have a break next weekend for the school holidays.

After several weeks of encouraging performances without the reward on the scoreboard, it was fantastic to see the boys finally collect the three points. A great team effort and a result they thoroughly deserved.

Horse Talk

By Anita Prowse

There was gorgeous sunshine after a very fresh start on Sunday, for one of our most favourite Upper Yarra Pony Club events, our Beginners Gymkhana.

This annual event is for all those just starting out and learning the ropes in the equestrian world.

We love seeing all the smiling faces and kids enjoying looking after their ponies and learning about sportsmanship and supporting everyone.

This year, we ran a novice only ring for open competitors and a Handymount ring with obstacles, judged by the speed course is completed. Congratulations to Upper Yarra Pony Club member, Annabelle, on winning the Fashions on the Field, Emily for winning the Fancy Dress, Abigail for winning the Handymount and Izzy and Serena for cleaning up in their classes too. Well Done everyone, and Happy Riding!

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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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Energy Savings

Introducing the difference

Fresh Air Intake

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Buller, designed for the high country

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EfficiencyAus 61% / EU 76%

Emissions1.4g/kg

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H/W/D870-930/770/527

Heat Bank10kg

Ember Retention7hr+ With Heat Bank8hr+ Min Flue Length4m From Spigot ColorBlack Base options