Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 7th July 2026

Light fantastic

By Oliver Winn

The Puffing Billy was captured as it choochooed past the Cockatoo Train Station on Thursday 2 July, producing a remarkable lighting display for its highly popular Train of Lights event.

We heard the haunting steam whistle firstthen, flashes of red and purple emerged in the distance.

The rhythmic chugging signalled the Puffing Billy’s approach, and it whistled once more, as though it were proudly saying hello to its onlookers.

As the train puffed past Cockatoo Station, there were only a few onlookers given the viewing platform wasn’t a main sightseeing location and it was a Thursday night.

But it only made the moment more personal as the train conductor gave his signature wave when the train passed by.

It’s the fifth year for the Train of Lights event, which has attracted visitors from all over the world.

See pictures of the train’s dazzling display on page 13

Firm no from VCAT

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Plans to carry out large-scale earthworks in Lysterfield Valley near Monbulk Creek have been knocked back by VCAT, upholding Yarra Ranges Council’s refusal of an application from ESG Lysterfield Pty Ltd.

The proposal involved about 400,000 cubic metres of fill spread across 15 hectares, staged over several years, and was described as one of the most heavily contested planning matters before the tribunal in recent memory.

The decision, handed down on 24 June 2026,

brings a three-year process to a close.

VCAT members Judith Perlstein and Claire Bennett found the project relied too heavily on untested mitigation measures, particularly around sediment control.

A key concern was a proposed sediment basin that lacked detailed design certainty, including capacity, construction method and performance in major rainfall events.

VCAT said it could not be satisfied that sediment would be properly contained during works, raising risks for Monbulk Creek.

The absence of hydraulic modelling also proved critical, with no RORB, TUFLOW or HECRAS analysis provided to assess potential flood impacts.

Groundwater conditions were similarly unresolved, with uncertainty about fill material and drainage interactions that could not simply be left to permit conditions.

Environmental concerns carried significant weight, particularly the risk to Monbulk Creek’s aquatic habitat and its importance as part of the Dandenong Catchment, home to the area’s last known platypus population.

Traffic impacts were minor overall, though some internal site management issues were flagged.

Community groups and conservation bodies, including the Save the Dandenongs League, welcomed the outcome, calling it a victory for Green Wedge protection and long-standing environmental advocacy.

VCAT also cited unresolved groundwater uncertainty and the need for stronger baseline data, reinforcing its view that key risks could not be managed through permit conditions alone.

Read the full story on page 4

NEWS Ambulance ramping down

By Callum Ludwig

Ambulance ramping is on the downturn but wait times to transfer patients still remain high.

The Australian Medical Association (AMA) recently released its Ambulance Ramping Report Card for 2026, which assessed the handovers of a record of over 2.4 million Australians arriving at emergency departments by ambulance in 2024/25.

Eastern Health couldn’t escape the height of ambulance ramping when an investigation was launched after back-up paramedics were required to treat a patient with heart arrhythmia left ramped at Maroondah Hospital in August 2024.

Eastern Health’s executive director of clinical operations Evan Newnham said Eastern Health is continuing to manage high demand through its emergency departments.

“Our community is presenting with higher acuity cases that often require increased length of stay,” he said.

“This puts additional pressure on access to hospital beds and requires constant management throughout our health service.”

Expected wait times for Eastern Health’s emergency departments at Angliss Hospital, Maroondah Hospital and Box Hill Hospital can be easternhealth.org.au/emergency-wait-time-status.

The expected wait time generally fluctuates from a few minutes to just over two hours for all three of Eastern Health’s emergency departments.

Mr Newnham said their teams continually work with Ambulance Victoria and the Department of Health on a range of initiatives to help manage demand.

“For those in our community who are unsure about the level of care they require, the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department or your local GP are a great place to start,” he said.

“We ask that our Emergency Departments are kept for emergency purposes only.”

The AMA found that there was a minor improvement around the country in 2024-25, but still reflects a significant decline from levels preCovid. More than half of Australian ambulance callouts now result in a hospital presentation and ambulances are spending significantly more time ramped outside hospitals than pre-Covid.

AMA president Dr Danielle McMullen said the findings painted a stark picture of a system under extreme strain, with reports of people dying while waiting for an ambulance or while ramped outside hospitals.

“Ambulance ramping is not an occasional pressure point — it’s a daily reality and a symptom of the logjam in our public hospitals that is putting patients, paramedics and clinicians in harm’s way,” she said.

“People are deteriorating, and in some cases dying, before they can even reach a hospital bed. That is unacceptable in a country with a worldclass health system. Our frontline teams are doing everything humanly possible; it’s the system around them that is breaking down.

“It is a sad reality that governments around the country have become desensitised to the harm-

Dandenong Ranges-linked case results in prison term

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

A case linked to the Dandenong Ranges has ended with a Victorian man sentenced to a partially suspended prison term for historic child sexual offences committed in the late 1990s.

Werner Fichtner was sentenced in the County Court of Victoria on 23 June 2026 to a total effective term of two years and nine months’ imprisonment. He will serve eight months in custody, with the remainder suspended for two years.

The man pleaded guilty to offences involving sexual conduct with a 14-year-old girl when he was in his early thirties.

The court heard the offending occurred nearly three decades ago in a residential setting after he met the child through a social connection. It was also told the child was staying at a family home at the time, and the offending involved exploitation of trust and coercion.

Judge Tiwana said the conduct caused significant harm to the victim, including long-term psychological trauma.

The judge said the seriousness of sexual offences against children was not reduced by the passage of time.

“The need for general deterrence and denunciation was an important factor in the sentencing,” the judge said.

The court also heard background material about the offender’s early life, including that he was born in rural Victoria on a dairy farm near Marlo and later moved with his family to an area near the Dandenong Ranges during childhood.

Fichtner later experienced family instability and other hardships, which were considered in sentencing.

Judge Tiwana said that despite mitigating factors, the gravity of the offending required a custo-

dial sentence, with part of it to be served.

Mitigating factors included a guilty plea, expressions of remorse, and evidence of rehabilitation over many years, including stable employment and no further offending for nearly three decades. The court assessed the offender as presenting a low risk of reoffending.

Judge Tiwana also said a higher sentence would have been imposed had the matter proceeded to trial.

Fichtner will be subject to mandatory sex offender registration for 15 years upon release.

ful impact of ambulance ramping on patients and hospital staff, essentially normalising it through years of neglect and underfunding of our health system.”

In Victoria, there was a 5.4 per cent decrease in incidents requiring an ambulance in 2024/25, down to 1.03 million incidents or 146.5 per 1000 people. Ambulance Victoria attributes a large portion of this to the 22,122 cases diverted from ambulance service by the Video Assisted Triage (VAT) service, which was expanded that year.

In Victoria, a target of 90 per cent of cases being transferred from ambulance to emergency department in 40 minutes is in place, with 68 per cent recorded in 2024/25, up three per cent from the year prior but still 4.7 per cent below 2020/21.

Victoria also has a target of 20 minutes for an ambulance to be available after delivering a pa-

tient to hospital, which was last met in 2019/20 and ballooned to an average time of 31.4 minutes in 2024/25.

Dr McMullen said the impact on frontline staff was equally severe.

“Doctors, nurses and paramedics are increasingly forced to deliver care in overcrowded, highpressure environments that fall well short of what they know patients deserve — often without appropriate space, resources, or staffing,” she said.

“Treating patients in corridors, managing prolonged handovers, and juggling unsafe workloads undermines clinical decision-making and places doctors in morally distressing situations.

“Over time, these conditions contribute to profound fatigue, burnout, and declining morale, driving experienced clinicians away from emergency medicine and the public system altogether.”

Latest preliminary data is showing positive signs, however. Despite the number of incidents requiring ambulance transfer remaining high, 73.32 per cent were transferred within 40 minutes in the January-March quarter of 2026, with a peak of 74.54 per cent recorded in January. The median patient transfer time has also been steady at 25 minutes over the last two quarters, and has dropped as low as 24 minutes in January 2026.

Dr McMullen said governments must tackle access block head-on by expanding hospital capacity, improving patient flow, and investing in the health workforce.

“These reforms are essential to prevent further harm, restore confidence in the system and ensure ambulances are available when people need them,” she said.

“Governments must act now to reduce ramping, free up beds, and restore timely, high-quality care across the country.

“Every Australian deserves to know that when they call for help, the system will be there for them.”

Recent actions to improve wait times and patient care from the Victorian Government have included improved nurse-to-patient ratios, targeted investments in emergency departments announced in October 2025, expansion of the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department and the implementation of new Standards for Safe and Timely Ambulance and Emergency Care.

Sentence appeal dismissed

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

WARNING: This article contains descriptions of sexual assaults on minors, some readers may find it distressing.

The Victorian Court of Appeal has dismissed a sentence appeal by a Gembrookraised woman convicted of multiple offences involving a child under the age of 16, finding that the original prison term was within the appropriate sentencing range.

The decision was handed down on 19 June, 2026.

The appellant, Veronica Bridge (a pseudonym), pleaded guilty in the County Court to several offences arising from her conduct towards a 15-year-old.

In August 2025, she was sentenced to a total effective sentence of three years and two months’ imprisonment, with a non-parole period of 23 months.

On appeal, Ms Bridge argued the sentence was manifestly excessive; her legal team submitted that the sentencing judge had not given sufficient weight to a range of mitigating factors, including her early guilty plea, lack of prior criminal history, documented mental health conditions, extensive rehabilitation efforts before sentencing, and positive prospects of rehabilitation.

The Court of Appeal acknowledged that the appellant had made significant efforts to address her mental health and substance use issues before being sentenced.

The Court of Appeal also accepted that Ms Bridge was assessed as presenting a low risk of reoffending and had demonstrated genuine engagement with treatment and rehabilitation programs.

Despite these factors, the Court of Appeal found that the sentencing judge had properly

balanced the appellant’s personal circumstances against the seriousness of the offending.

The Court of Appeal noted that the offences involved a child under the age of 16, occurred over a period of weeks, and warranted a sentence that reflected the need for punishment, general deterrence, and community protection.

It also rejected comparisons with another case in which a community-based sentence had been imposed, describing that decision as involving unusual circumstances that did not apply in the present case.

In its judgment, the court reiterated that a successful appeal on the ground of manifest excess requires an appellant to demonstrate that the sentence imposed was outside the range reasonably available to the sentencing judge, and it concluded that this threshold had not been met.

Accordingly, the court dismissed the appeal, leaving the original sentence of three years and two months’ imprisonment, with a non-parole period of 23 months, unchanged.

Woman’s 443 charges behind crime spike

By Afraa Kori

An alleged thief, who has been bailed on 443 charges, appears to be a large part of a 500 per cent reported crime spike in the small town of Gembrook.

According to the state’s Crime Statistics Agency, Gembrook recorded 539 offences in 2026, compared with just 94 offences last year.

The rise in crime across Gembrook can be attributed to two crime types: obtain benefit by deception and theft (other), which accounted for 41.5 per cent of offences in the reporting period.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said a 40-yearold woman from McMahons Creek is allegedly responsible for more than 430 incidents, relating to theft and deception offences.

She has been charged with 443 charges relating to theft, deception and using false documents, and was bailed to appear in Melbourne County Court on 12 November 2026.

The woman’s alleged offending occurred between July 2022 and June 2024. The matter was reported to police in 2024 and following a “lengthy investigation”, she was charged in May 2025.

Police explained that the alleged offences relate to the same alleged victim, who had been unaware that they had occurred.

Once they became aware, they then made a report to the police, who then launched an investigation.

“Because of this, the alleged offending fell in the most recent crime data reporting period and accounted for almost 82 per cent of all crimes in

Gembrook in the past year,” a spokesperson said.

The other common offence in the area was theft from motor vehicles, which rose from two incidents in the previous year to 12, in the year ending March 2026.

At a recent Casey crime forum, Crime Stoppers community engagement officer Aiden Bloomfield said statistics show people in Melbourne’s western suburbs are generally more likely to report crime than those in the south east.

He stressed the importance of reporting suspicious activity directly to police or Crime Stoppers rather than posting about it on social media.

Police also reminded vehicle owners to lock their cars and never leave valuables inside to deter opportunistic thieves.

IN BRIEF

Three charged after Boronia armed robbery

Officers from the Croydon Divisional Response Unit have charged three teens following two armed robberies in Boronia last week.

Investigators allege two teenage boys, both aged 15-years-old, were approached by a group of three males at a bus stop near Chandler Road about 5pm. One of the males allegedly produced a machete, threatened one of the 15-year-olds and made demands for his belongings.

The boy refused to comply before the three males allegedly grabbed him, removed his backpack and assaulted him.

It is alleged the same three males approached the second 15-year-old boy, demanding he handover his e-scooter.

One of the males allegedly assaulted the boy before stealing his bag and scooter.

All three males fled the scene, one allegedly riding the scooter.

Despite uniform police and detectives searching the area, the males were not located.

The two 15-year-old boys did not require medical attention.

Following an extensive investigation, police arrested three teenage boys in Heathmont and Lilydale yesterday.

A 16-year-old from the La Trobe area, a 17-yearold from the Maroondah area and a 16-year-old from the Ballarat area were interviewed and charged with multiple armed robberies and assaults.

The trio are remanded to appear before a children’s court at a later date.

Investigation into Upper FTG car theft bid

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding an attempted car theft in Upper Ferntree Gully on Tuesday, 17 February.

Investigators believe an unknown man attempted to steal a Chrysler 300C but was unable to start the engine before leaving the scene on foot towards Burwood Highway. Police have released an image of a man they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at Crime Stoppers Victoria.

Tyre slashing spree under investigation in Boronia Police are investigating a series of tyre slashings in Boronia overnight between 29 and 30 June.

Offences are believed to have occurred between 9.30pm on Monday 29 June and 3am on Tuesday 30 June, in the area between Dorset Road and Scoresby Road, including multiple incidents in Zeisling Court.

Police are urging residents and businesses in the area to check CCTV or dashcam footage from the relevant time period for any information that may assist the investigation. Senior constable Hallam is leading the investigation.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Police investigate Emerald vehicle break-in

Police are investigating after items were stolen from a vehicle in Emerald on Friday, 26 June, following reports linked to the Puffing Billy Railway area.

Police Media said it is understood an unknown offender gained access to a silver SUV between 6pm and 8.30pm, before stealing a credit card and other personal items. The offender then fled the scene. The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who may have dashcam or CCTV footage, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Recruitment opens for forest firefighters across state

Applications are now open for seasonal and ongoing forest firefighter roles across Victoria.

Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) is recruiting entry-level forest firefighter positions across Victoria for the upcoming bushfire season.

FFMVic Chief Fire Officer, Chris Hardman, said seasonal firefighters boost Victoria’s firefighting capacity in the lead-up to summer and during the peak fire season.

“New recruits train and work alongside our permanent firefighters, responding to bushfires to keep communities safer this summer,” Mr Hardman said.

“They will be part of a team of close to 1800 frontline personnel and 1200 accredited incident management staff this bushfire season.

“These are fantastic jobs doing practical work, right at the frontline of protecting communities and the environment.”

FFMVic firefighters responded to more than 900 bushfires across the state last summer and delivered priority planned burns which will help reduce the impact of future bushfires.

Mr Hardman said seasonal firefighter roles provide rewarding career opportunities for those with a passion for the outdoors, learning new skills and making a difference.

“In addition to responding to bushfires and helping to deliver planned burns, seasonal firefighters also undertake pest and weed control works, and maintain recreational reserves, fuel breaks and forest roads,” he said.

“We want a diverse pool of people applying for our jobs. We want our crews to reflect the communities they serve and to have a range of skills and experiences.

“Most importantly, we’re looking for recruits with a ‘can do’ attitude who can work as part of a team.”

Some roles are designated for First Nations employment.

Applications close 26 July. Seasonal employment occurs between October and May, with some variations on start and end dates depending on seasonal requirements.

For information and to apply, visit jobs.careers.vic.gov.au/sffoo or call 136 186.

VCAT no to earthworks plan

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

A permit for the large-scale earthworks and fill proposal in Lysterfield Valley near Monbulk Creek has been refused by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), supporting Yarra Ranges Council’s initial decision to reject the application proposed by ESG Lysterfield Pty Ltd.

The proposal involved the placement of around 400,000 cubic metres of fill across approximately 15 hectares, with staged earthworks planned over several years.

The decision was made on 24 June 2026, ending a planning process that had run for more than three years - it was described as “one of the most sustained and contested VCAT proceedings in recent memory”.

The decision was handed down by VCAT presiding member Judith Perlstein and member Claire Bennett.

Save the Dandenongs League Inc president Louis Delacretaz said the result was a “major win” for the local community and the Lysterfield Valley.

“This tremendous outcome for the Lysterfield Valley was achieved by years of sustained effort by the local community and a coalition of environment groups working together,” Mr Delacretaz said.

“Landfill and other intensive / urban uses should be prohibited in Green Wedge Zones. We call on the Planning Minister to protect our fragile Green Wedges by prohibiting uses with no link to the agricultural or environmental objectives of the zone. This would make it clear to developers what is allowed so the community does not have to contest outrageous applications at VCAT.”

The National Trust Dandenong Ranges Branch president, Carolyn Ebdon welcomed the decision, saying it recognised the importance of protecting the Lysterfield Valley, which has been a National Trust Classified Landscape since 1981.

“The Regional Strategy Plan requires that use and development within National Trust classified landscapes be carried out in a manner that is compatible with protecting, maintaining and, where possible, enhancing their landscape character,” Ms Ebdon said.

“This outcome reflects the combined efforts of Yarra Ranges Council, Melbourne Water and the objector groups, whose evidence helped demonstrate the environmental impacts the proposal would have had. It shows what can be achieved when organisations and the community work together to protect the environment.”

A key issue was the proposal’s reliance on a sediment basin as the main stormwater and erosion control measure during construction. While the Tribunal accepted that impacts could potentially be managed in theory, it found there was not enough certainty that key environmental and engineering risks could be properly controlled in practice.

The Tribunal identified major gaps in the sediment basin design, including undefined elevation, sizing, construction methodology, and capacity to manage significant rainfall events.

Operational details such as flocculant dosing, dewatering procedures, and maintenance regimes were also found to be inadequately specified.

As a result, the Tribunal concluded it could not be satisfied that sediment impacts on Monbulk Creek would be properly prevented during construction.

This lack of design certainty reduced confidence in the effectiveness of the proposed sediment and drainage controls.

Another key issue was the absence of hydraulic modelling.

No modelling was done using standard tools such as RORB, TUFLOW, or HEC-RAS to assess flood behaviour. In particular, there was not enough analysis of whether the earthworks and filling could affect flood levels, flow speeds, or flood storage during a 1 per cent Annual Exceedance Probability event.

Applicant hydrology and engineering expert Rob Swan supported the proposal, while Yarra Ranges Council and Melbourne Water experts, including Dr Mason and ecologist Griffiths, raised concerns about the absence of hydraulic modelling and the potential impacts on flood behaviour and aquatic habitat.

Groundwater impacts were also unresolved.

The Tribunal accepted concerns that baseline hydrogeological conditions had not been properly established, and that uncertainty remained about the fill material and how ground-

water might interact with drainage and flooding. It found these issues could not be left to permit conditions.

Environmental impacts on Monbulk Creek were a major consideration.

The creek forms part of the Dandenong Catchment and supports the last known platypus population in the area.

The Tribunal found that increased sedimentation and turbidity during construction could harm aquatic habitat, including macro-invertebrates that support the platypus food chain.

Although mitigation measures such as staged earthworks, erosion controls, buffer zones, and sediment ponds were proposed, the Tribunal found these had not been sufficiently demonstrated as effective.

Uncertainty around staging, maintenance, and fill quality meant the residual ecological risk to the platypus population remained too high.

Traffic impacts were considered relatively minor in the wider road network context, with around 80–100 vehicle movements per day. However, internal operational issues were identified, including haul routes crossing culturally sensitive areas and the absence of a clear system for managing non-conforming loads.

On cultural heritage, the Tribunal found a Cultural Heritage Management Plan was not required under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006, as the proposal did not meet the threshold for a high-impact activity.

Nevertheless, evidence from the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation was acknowledged as an important contribution to the case.

The Tribunal ultimately found the proposal relied too heavily on future design development and untested mitigation measures.

Key matters - including sediment control design, flood modelling, groundwater management, staging arrangements, and operational controls remained unresolved and could not be adequately addressed through permit conditions.

In Save the Dandenongs League media statement, it stated the proposal was incompatible with the landscape and environmental values of the Lysterfield Valley, provided no net community benefit, and would have significantly impacted local amenity.

It also framed the decision as a rejection of using Green Wedge land for large-scale dumping associated with external development pressures.

The group acknowledged contributions from numerous objectors and organisations, including Friends of the Glenfern Green Wedge, the Green Wedges Coalition, Knox Environment Society, the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) Dandenong Ranges Branch, and Friends of Glenfern Valley Bushlands, as well as local residents who provided detailed evidence about the valley.

Support from Melbourne Water and Yarra Ranges Council were also noted, particularly in relation to expert evidence on risks to the waterway and catchment.

Nurse numbers to increase

By Callum Ludwig

The Victorian Government is set to introduce legislation to lift the number of nurses and midwives and ensure they can provide proper care for each patient.

The Safe Patient Care Act will reclassify 26 hospitals, including Maroondah Hospital and Angliss Hospital, to require an increase in staffing levels, with $109.7 million pledged to add 253 full-time equivalent nursing positions.

Eastern Health’s acting chief nursing and midwifery officer Catherine Hillman said nurses and midwives provide an essential service 24 hours a day, and are fundamental to providing high-quality and safe patient care.

“The healthcare demand from our community continues to increase, so it is critical that we support the health and wellbeing of the incredible staff who look after them,” she said.

“We will continue to explore improvement opportunities to ensure successful implementation throughout our workforce.”

Already strengthened ratios also officially came into effect on Wednesday 1 July:

ICUs require a one-to-one nurse-to-patient ratio on all shifts for all Level 1 and 2 hospitals, as well as a team leader and liaison nurse.

In emergency departments, staffing ratios in resuscitation cubicles on morning shifts have been lifted in line with afternoon and night shifts.

There will be one-to-four midwife-to-patient ratios in postnatal and antenatal wards on night shifts, down from one-to-six.

In a High Dependency and Coronary Care Unit, there will be an introduction of an in-charge nurse overnight.

The changes were advocated for by the Victorian branch of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), and branch secretary Maddy Harradence said public hospital classifications are central to Victoria’s world-leading nurse/midwife to patient ratios.

“This legislation ensures we remain at the forefront of nurse and midwife to patient ratios, and will ultimately mean more nurses and midwives to care for Victorians in our public hospitals,” she said.

According to the ANMF, Maroondah Hospital will become a level one service up from level two, while the Angliss will move from level three to level two. No hospital in Victoria is going down a level with the new legislation. The level is determined either by the number of hospital bed days recorded or a combination of hospital bed days, emergency department presentations and ICU average hours of care. Maternity capability and NICU/special care admissions can also be factored in.

For example, Maroondah Hospital will need

to have one nurse for every patient during morning and afternoon shifts, and one for every eight during the night shift, as well as a nurse in charge. The afternoon shift is the only shift affected by the increase, with one less patient for each nurse.

For the Angliss, it will be the same, other than requiring one nurse for every five patients in the afternoon shift. But the changes for the Angliss will result in one less patient for each nurse in the mornings and afternooons, and two less at night.

“When you’re sick, nothing compares to the gold standard care of a nurse in a Victorian public hospital,” Premier Jacinta Allan said.

“By supporting our nurses, we are also making sure Victorians get the best care when and where they need it,” Health Minister Harriet Shing said.

SPONSORED CONTENT

More Australians are choosing life beyond the big cities

Australiansaremovingtoregionalcommunities in record numbers , with new data showing the shift away from capital cities continues to gather pace.

The latest Regional Movers Index found the number of people moving from capital cities to regional Australia reached its highest level since the index began. In the March 2026 quarter, people moving to the regions outnumbered those heading back to the cities by almost 30 per cent.

Regional Australia Institute chief executive Liz Ritchie said the result reflected the growing appeal of regional living.

“This is the highest level of capital to regional movement the RMI has ever recorded,” she said. “Australians are continuing to choose regional life in greater numbers, even as economic conditions shift.”

While Sydney and Melbourne continue to account for most people leaving capital cities, the trend is becoming more widespread, with increasing numbers of movers also coming from Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.

The Sunshine Coast remained the most popular destinationforcitymovers,whileGreaterGeelong, Fraser Coast, Moorabool and Lake Macquarie were also among the leading destinations.

Thedataalsoshowsgrowthisspreadingbeyond established regional hotspots.

Toowoomba recorded the strongest year-onyear increase in people moving from capital cities of any local government area in Australia. Other locations attracting growing numbers of residents included Broome, Townsville and the Mid-Coast region of New South Wales.

Ritchie said the data helps identify emerging growth areas and gives communities an opportunity to plan for future housing, infrastructure and services.

For regional businesses, population growth can create new opportunities as communities expand and local economies grow.

Read the full story at CommBank Newsroom.

Initiative is not sustained

By Callum Ludwig

After 20 years, Sustainability Victoria was wound up on 30 June with seven of its initiatives being continued under the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA).

The decision was made in late-2025 following the Silver Review, an independent review of the Victorian public service led by Helen Silver AO. “As part of improving operational efficiency and

effectiveness across government, the functions of Sustainability Victoria are now embedded across government agencies,” a DEECA spokesperson said.

In the final report from the Silver Review, it was identified that SV’s ‘waste management, recycling, energy and climate change responsibilities overlap with DEECA and other non-departmental entities’ such as Recycling Victoria and the EPA. As a result, winding up SV would ‘streamline sustainability policy, simplify governance, reduce administrative overheads and clarify accountability’ according to the report.

Hills local Claire Ferres Miles was Sustainability Victoria’s chief executive between 2019 and 2022 before stepping down to run as an independent candidate at the 2022 federal election.

Ms Ferres Miles said it was a sad day when Sustainability Victoria closed its doors on 30 June.

“For 20 years Sustainability Victoria (SV) was the partner of choice with industry innovators and community groups, driving ambition, action and changing behaviour,” she said. “It was a pleasure to be CEO of SV 2019-2022 leading the transition to a circular economy. It was a great place to work.’

The following programs will carry on under DEECA:

Detox Your Home’s free collection events to dispose of hazardous household chemicals.

FirstRate5 energy ratings can still be generated by builders and designers to calculate heating and cooling requirements for new builds and renovations.

The Markets Acceleration will continue to give waste a new life such as turning old tyres into speed humps and food scraps into compost.

ResourceSmart Schools will continue to encourage and support schools to embed sustainability across their curriculum and community.

Behaviour change campaigns such as the Small Acts, Big Impact campaign will remain and grant programs to support investment in the circular economy will also continue.

“As a Yarra Ranges local myself, a special shoutout to the incredible team of passionate locals that ran the Yarra Valley Community Power Hub (YVCPHub) based in Healesville, a fantastic SV program that achieved community-owned and operated renewable energy projects in the Valley,” Ms Ferres Miles said. “I encourage people to check-out Healesville CoRE – Healesville Community Renewable Energy, supporting our community with regular free events, providing advice on home energy efficiency and supporting community groups to install solar.” Programs and teams that will not persist include: The Buy Circular Service which supported councils to incorporate recycled materials into local projects, though its directory of more than 100 suppliers of recycled products will transition to Victorian Government agency ecologiQ.

The Circular Economy Business Innovation Centre (CEBIC) which supported Victorian businesses to turn their circular ideas into commercial opportunities, as well as SV’s Learning Portal which helped advise ideas.

The SV Major Events and Tourism program, the Regional Engagement team, the space hire service at the SV hub and the SV lab have all also been discontinued.

In the Victorian Government’s response to the Silver Review, they did not support the recommendations to abolish the Geelong Authority and the Office of the Local Jobs First Commissioner.

A number of other entities were accepted to be absorbed into others, such as VicHealth and HealthShare Victoria into the Department of Health and the corporate service functions of Court Services Victoria into the Department of Justice and Community Safety.

New leisure partnership

By Callum Ludwig

Aquatic and leisure services are under new management in the Yarra Ranges as of the start of the new financial year.

Yarra Ranges Council’s new partner Aligned Leisure has taken over from Belgravia Leisure and started a new ‘Active Yarra Ranges’ brand.

Director of Built Environment and Infrastructure Anita Curnow said the council is excited to begin a new chapter for aquatic and leisure services in Yarra Ranges, with management of six facilities transitioning to Aligned Leisure.

“This partnership will support a refreshed approach to aquatic and leisure services, with a stronger emphasis on participation, wellbeing, preventative health and community connection,” she said.

“Since announcing the new contract in April, our priority has been on ensuring a smooth transition for members and users of the centres, with continuity of service our key focus.”

Aligned Leisure now manages Healesville’s Jack Hort Memorial Pool, the Healesville Outdoor Pool, the Lilydale Outdoor Pool, the Belgrave Outdoor Pool, the Yarra Centre in Yarra Junction and Monbulk Aquatic Centre.

“We also deeply value the trusted, long-stand-

ing relationships that staff at these centres have with the community and are pleased to share that 98 per cent of staff joined the Aligned Leisure team, ensuring members will continue to see many familiar faces,” Ms Curnow said.

“Aligned Leisure brings a strong vision for the future of our facilities, and we look forward to partnering with them to improve the health, wellbeing and connectedness of our community for years to come.”

As a result of the transition, members of the previous Active World system will have to move over to Aligned Leisure’s customer management system Perfect Gym, though many of the features are the same.

These features include an online customer portal, online group fitness class bookings, the ability to manage your swimming lesson booking online and live updates of lap lane availability via the Active Yarra Ranges website. Some features will be temporarily unavailable while the system migration process is completed.

There will be also slight changes or temporary delays regarding membership, Learn to Swim programs and childcare.

To find out more and read frequently asked questions, visit activeyarraranges.com.au/news/ introducing-active-yarra-ranges/?.

Knox Council launches

July tinned food drive

Knox City Council is urging residents to support a July tinned food drive as local food relief providers report demand for emergency food assistance is higher than ever.

According to the council, many organisations across Knox are seeing emergency food relief become an ongoing necessity for residents, rather than a short-term measure.

The appeal is seeking donations of tinned soup, tuna, fruit, tomatoes, tomato paste, spaghetti and mixed vegetables.

All donations will be distributed to food relief agencies across Knox to help residents experiencing hardship access nutritious food.

Donations can be dropped off throughout July at the Knox Civic Centre in Wantirna South, Rowville Community Centre, Knox Regional Netball Centre, and libraries in Bayswater, Boronia, Ferntree Gully, Wantirna South and Rowville during their regular opening hours.

Knox Council said it continues to support local emergency food relief providers through funding, reduced-rate facility leases, and ini-

Into The Wild Gardens in Kallista is helping local residents create and maintain outdoor spaces that reflect the natural beauty of the Dandenong Ranges. Led by Kye Gamgee, Into The Wild Gardens has built a reputation for quality workmanship, personalised service and a genuine passion for landscaping in the hills environment.

Specialising in landscape construction and garden maintenance, the team offers a range of services including retaining walls, drainage solutions, native plantings and complete garden transformations. Their experience with challenging hills properties ensures every project is designed to be both practical and visually appealing while complementing the surrounding landscape.

A key part of Into The Wild Gardens is its dedicated maintenance team, which provides professional garden services for clients receiving Support At Home, Home Care Packages, the Commonwealth Home Support Programme, DVA, TAC, WorkCover and other government funded or insurance related services. The team understands the importance of keeping outdoor areas safe, accessible and enjoyable, helping people remain independent and comfortable in their own homes.

Into The Wild Gardens works closely with clients, families and service providers to deliver reliable maintenance solutions tailored to individual needs. This community focused approach has made the business a trusted choice for many residents throughout the region. With a strong commitment to sustainability, functionality and customer care, Into The Wild Gardens continues to enhance homes and gardens across the hills, creating spaces where people can connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of their local environment for years to come.

Knox City Council is calling for tinned food donations throughout July to support families in need. (Unsplash)

tiatives including the Knox Emergency Relief Network and Food Relief Taskforce.

Residents needing food or other emergency relief are encouraged to seek assistance through local community and welfare service providers.

Guides raise vital funds

By Tanya Steele

Two young Girl Guides in Upwey are working towards a peak achievement award through their organisation and raising money for their community along the way.

Joining forces with Foothills Community Care, the duo held a fundraising event and joined volunteers on their regular community meal night last week.

Attending with the rest of the Upwey Girl Guides for a tour first, Girl Guides Rosalie and Lily raised over $1500 for Foothills Community Care with a Flamingo Fundraiser on Friday 19 June.

Girl Guide leader Rebecca Broecker said that with the big crowd of youths on the night, the fundraiser felt a bit like a birthday party.

“The best part of living in Upwey is how the community pull together to help each other out,” she said.

Coming together with a few community donations, the fundraiser got people and community groups connecting with raffle contributions from Mums of the Hills and Upwey Buy/Sell Nothing. Local businesses also got on board, and Upwey Fish and Chips, Upwey Pizza and IGA donated food for the dinner.

The teens also helped out with the prep and service for Foothills regular community meals program the following week, helping make around 20 litres of soup.

Rosalie and Lily have been working on their community project challenge since late last year, making strides towards what is known as the Queen’s Guide award.

Taking around one to two years to finish, the Queen’s Guide Award is the peak achievement award for Youth Members of Girl Guides Australia and paves the way for personal development and greater self-awareness.

Rosalie said working on the Queen’s Guide has really shaped her into a better person and a person she wants to be.

“It has helped me develop myself and introduced me to so many new experiences that I’ve really loved,” she said.

Gaining lots of new skills along the way, Lily said she has learned how to lead, work with others and develop her problem-solving,” she said.

“Some of my favourite experiences have been planning and hosting events like the Foothills Flamingo fundraiser and volunteering to help children with disabilities.”

So far, the two have clocked up hours of time with their volunteering, learning along the way.

Ms Broecker said one of the greatest privileges of her role is watching girls discover just how capable they are.

“By giving them opportunities to serve their community, take on challenges and lead with purpose, we help shape not only strong leaders, but kind and empowered young women who understand the value of giving back,” she said.

From pups to purpose: Get behind SED appeal

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

For Upper Ferntree Gully’s Kate Watkins, life with a Seeing Eye Dog is not just one chapter of her story it has shaped her entire adult life, spanning five decades and eight devoted companions who have led the way.

Ms Watkins first stepped into training with her first SED in 1974, straight after completing her HSC, choosing a path that would shape every stage of her life from that moment on.

The 70 year old lives with vision impairment and comes from a family closely connected to SED, she spent more than 50 years alongside a succession of carefully matched dogs, each arriving at a different point in her life, from early career years, through raising children, and now into retirement.

Over that time, eight SEDs have stood by her side - leading the way, each one brought a spirit suited to the chapter she was living, some offered calm steadiness during the chaos of raising young children, others brought energy and sociability during busy working years, and later her companions supported a more flexible, active retirement.

Together, they have provided far more than mobility alone.

Even as each working partnership has come to an end, the connection has remained.

Ms Watkins has stayed closely linked to every dog she has worked with, ensuring they were placed in homes suited to them and maintaining contact long after their retirement from guide work.

Ms Watkins continues to live independently in Upper Ferntree Gully with her eighth SED, ‘Kramer’.

Her story comes as the Petbarn Foundation encourages Ferntree Gully locals to get behind its 13th annual SEDs appeal this July, which aims to help fund the training of SEDs that provide independence, confidence and connection for people who are blind or have low vision.

The Appeal is seeking to raise more than $1.2 million nationally to help train 24 SEDs, with each dog costing more than $50,000 and taking up to two years to train.

With more than 453,000 Australians living with blindness or low vision, a figure expected to grow by 25 per cent by 2030, increasing the demand for SEDs.

“Being matched with a Seeing Eye Dog is a life-changing partnership that provides independence, confidence and freedom, allowing people who are blind or have low vision to navigate the world safely and stay connected to their community on their own terms,” Petbarn Foundation’s manager Janelle Miller said.

Locals are being encouraged to support the appeal by donating in-store at Petbarn throughout July, or online at www.petbarn.com.au/seeingeyedogs.

Ferntree Gully Petbarn area manager, Kate McCormack said the appeal remains a deeply personal cause for her team.

“It’s a cause close to our team’s hearts because we see firsthand the real difference the Appeal makes in creating life-changing partnerships that give people independence, confidence and connection to their community,” Ms McCormack said.

Ms McCormack is encouraging the community to get behind the campaign, particularly during the double donation period from 24-26 July, when the Petbarn Foundation will match every dollar donated.

She said the motivation for the team has remained strong year after year.

“Knowing that every donation helps create life-changing partnerships and that since 2014 we’ve collectively raised more than $10 million to fund over 200 Seeing Eye Dogs across Australia keeps our team inspired and motivated year after year,” Ms McCormack said.

She said every contribution, no matter the size, helps make a tangible difference.

“Every donation, no matter the size, helps change someone’s life by contributing to training the next generation of Seeing Eye Dogs,” Ms McCormack said.

“And with 100 per cent of donations going directly to Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs, you know your support is making a real difference.”

Boronia father and son walk 150km for cancer research

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

A father and son from Boronia have joined a large fundraising team supporting brain cancer research through the Mark Hughes Foundation, completing a gruelling 150-kilometre walk from Sydney to Newcastle.

Dr Prabodh Malhotra, who is 74 and will turn 75 later this year, took on the challenge alongside his son, Shekhar Malhotra, who will turn 40 in a couple of months - the pair joined a team of around 80 to 90 walkers for the multi-day trek.

The walk began at 5am on Friday, 26 June at the National Rugby League HQ in Sydney and finished on Sunday evening at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle.

The group completed the journey alongside former rugby league player, Paul Gallen, who has played more than 400 games, as well as brain cancer survivors and families who have lost loved ones to the disease.

Mr (Shekhar) Malhotra said he was inspired to take part after being invited to join the walk during a visit to Newcastle weeks earlier, and described the experience as both physically and mentally demanding.

“The toughest part was probably just keeping up with the group. It was fast-paced. It’s more of a mental challenge than anything,” he said.

He said support vans along the route helped participants manage the distance, providing rest stops and assistance when needed, including treatment for a blister sustained on his first day.

For Dr Malhotra, the motivation came from a long-standing commitment to supporting brain cancer research and giving back to the community.

Walking alongside his son made this year’s challenge particularly meaningful, as it was the first time they had undertaken such an endurance event together.

“We had never walked together like this ever before,” Dr Malhotra said.

The trek formed part of an annual initiative organised by the group known as the Big Three Trackers, which raises funds for the Mark Hughes Foundation.

The Mark Hughes Foundation was established in 2014 by former rugby league player Mark Hughes and his wife Kirralee following his brain cancer diagnosis, with a focus on funding research, raising awareness, and supporting patients and their families.

Participants also walked alongside survivors and families impacted by brain cancer, with both Dr and Mr Malhotra describing the experience as “deeply emotional and supportive”.

Dr Malhotra said meeting foundation found-

er, Mark Hughes and hearing personal stories from families affected by brain cancer was among the most moving parts of the journey.

“It was very moving to see Lisa, a brain cancer survivor, who walked with us and fired the starting shot at the NRL headquarters in Sydney, it was very powerful to see her strength,” Dr Malhotra said.

“We later found out another of Lisa’s sisters also suffers from brain cancer. It was a very moving experience - when her letter was read out, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room.”

The walk concluded in emotional scenes at McDonald Jones Stadium, where Dr Malhotra helped lead a Lap of Honour alongside Paul Gallen during halftime of the game between the Newcastle Knights and the Wests Tigers, held in the rain.

“The experience reinforced my commitment to continue supporting community causes, as a way of ‘giving back’ after many years in Australia.”

“I would love to commit myself to keep walking until my last breath, because if my walking

can improve or save an Australian life, I’ll keep doing it.”

The initiative has so far raised $473,000, with donations still coming in.

Organisers expect the total to pass half a million dollars as the campaign continues. Donations remain open for the next couple of months, with contributions able to be made via: bigthreetrek6.gofundraise.com.au/payments/donate/page/2503179

Pride in Dandenong Ranges

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Charley Aitken knows first-hand how important it is to feel connected to community.

The 22-year-old from Selby has spent the past few years dedicating her time to supporting young people through local government and LGBTQ+ advocacy, using her own experiences to help create opportunities for others.

For Ms Aitken, getting involved was a natural decision.

“As a LGBTQ person, young person myself, I felt very inspired to get involved as a way to give back to community and help support community, as I’m also a very community-minded person,” she said.

Based in the Dandenong Ranges, Ms Aitken has served on Yarra Ranges Council’s Youth Advisory Committee and is involved in LGBT Youth, more recently, she joined inner-city Melbourne youth organisation Minus18’s Amplify Committee, an experience she says has opened new doors.

“Having the experience of connecting with Minus18 has given me more opportunities that I otherwise would not have,” she said.

The opportunity has also connected her with young people from across Victoria.

“It has meant a lot for me, being able to connect with other young people from across the state has really been amazing,” Ms Aitken said.

“Being able to meet people that I otherwise would not have met, and being able to connect in and help with events, specifically events run in the city.”

One of the standout moments came earlier this year when she proudly led the group during the annual Midsumma Festival, carrying the banner at the front of the procession.

“It felt amazing,” Ms Aitken said.

“It was something that I’d been wanting to do for a while, and so being able to get the opportunity made me feel so joyful and full of pride to be able to be up there and be a part of the community.”

The experience also came with a light-hearted memory.

“I am quite short, and the banner was quite big, so the banner was coming up to my chin,” she said, laughingly.

“So in photos it all looks a little bit weird.”

Ms Aitken said being involved with Yarra Ranges Council’s Youth Advisory Committee had also broadened her understanding of local government.

“It shaped my perspective as I’ve been able to learn more about how council works and the different parts of council,” she said.

“It was not something really talked about in school. We talked a lot more about federal politics and a little bit about state politics, but didn’t really go into local councils that much.”

She said youth-led programs played an important role in helping young people develop confidence while building meaningful community

connections.

Although she is not currently studying, Ms Aitken said balancing community commitments with everyday life still required careful attention.

“For me it’s just sort of being mindful of my energy levels, and being conscious of my capacity,” she said.

Looking ahead, Ms Aitken hopes more opportunities become available for young LGBTQ+ people living in the Dandenong Ranges.

“I would like to see more opportunities and more groups for us to be able to connect,” she said.

“In the ranges there is not the same level of events and opportunities as there are in the city, as well as they can be a bit harder to access due to lack of public transport and things like that.”

“So improving opportunities and improving access to opportunities is something that I really would like to see.”

She also hopes society continues to become more inclusive.

“I would like to see more compassion and more openness, and willingness for society to be able to hold a lot more different ways of knowing and being and moving throughout the world,” Ms Aitken said.

Ms Aitken’s involvement with Minus18’s Amplify Committee was funded by Amplify, formerly FReeZA, from the Victorian Government.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Mini-masterpieces at Sherbrooke Art Society exhibition

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

The Sherbrooke Art Society’s annual Small Packages Exhibition took place on Saturday, 27 June, drawing a strong field of miniature works from across Australia.

This year’s exhibition featured 61 entries from 19 artists, with submissions arriving from members of the Australian Society of Miniature Art (ASMA), members of the Sherbrooke Art Society, and the general public.

Judge Janet Matthews, who is also president of the Sherbrooke Art Society and a past president of ASMA, announced the winners and presented awards and certificates to finalists.

“Miniatures are a tiny moment in life, engaging from a distance and entrancing up close,” Ms Matthews said.

She described miniatures as “such a special and unique artform”, recalling her first encounter with miniature works at an exhibition at Mulgrave Gallery.

Ms Matthew said she was struck by a whole wall of works that were “so engaging and detailed”.

“I instantly thought, I have got to do this,” she said.

She later attended a miniature conference where she was “in awe of the range and quality of the works”, describing each piece as “a treasure”.

She joined the Victorian Miniature Art Society (ASMA Vic), developed her miniature practice, and became active on committee.

“I just loved sharing the beauty and uniqueness of miniatures with other artists and art lovers,” she said.

Ms Matthew said it was important to continue the legacy of miniature art through ongoing exhibitions at Sherbrooke following the closure of the Victorian Miniature Art Society (ASMA

Vic), and spoke about the introduction of the Michael Freshwater Trophy of Excellence in honour of the late Michael Freshwater.

Miniatures have specific rules, it must be 10cm x 10cm or variations, with subjects onesixth or less of their actual size.

Its detailed works designed to be viewed closely or with magnification, often described as “tiny views of our world” and as “little gems” that capture small moments in detail.

This year’s winner of the ‘Michael Freshwater Award for Excellence’ was Angela Wilson for her small pastel painting ‘Mt Tarrengower Lookout’.

Ms Wilson was also awarded a Highly Com-

mended for another pastel work, ‘View from Olinda – Monbulk Rd’.

The judges’ comments on the winning work read: “A beautiful work that ticks all the boxes! Lighting moment of high sun and muted yet with detail. Clever use of the clouds and jet trail to guide the eye around the painting. This painting works beautifully. Michael would have been proud.”

Ms Wilson, a local artist from Sherbrooke, said she was surprised and honoured to receive the award.

“I like to do landscapes from an elevated perspective and in this work I have tried to capture all the beauty of the rolling hills around Maldon in a small format painting,” she said.

The other major award winners were also announced on the day including: Carol Toogood received Best Tea-Leaf Challenge for ‘Tango’; Madeleine Szymanski, from NSW, was awarded Best Graphite for ‘Family Tree’; Ruth Bosveld, from Tasmania, received Best Miniature for ‘Banjo’, while Elizabeth Anderson Ovenden was awarded Best Small Artwork for ‘My Best Mate’. Organisers thanked an anonymous donor for their support this year, along with all artists who submitted works to the exhibition.

The Small Packages Exhibition is now open until July 26, and can be viewed at the Sherbrooke Art Gallery, 62 Monbulk Road, Belgrave, or online at www.sherbrookeartgalleryshop. com

From burnout to belonging

By Tanya Steele

A shabby little weatherboard in western Victoria and a month of solitude have become a cornerstone for a new body of work from a Dandenong Ranges landscape artist.

The public gallery exhibition marks a first for the artist, Liberty Finn, as Still Rock, Living Water opened at Burrinja Cultural Centre on 28 June.

Bringing multi-layered works in acrylic, pastel and charcoal, the exhibition came to being after Ms Finn spent days bushwalking, drawing and observing the landscape of Naitumk, exploring Mt Arapiles and the Grampians.

The dramatic rock formations of the area became a source of inspiration.

“I really loved all the rocks,” she said.

“What really struck me about them is that there was a very calm energy.”

“They stretch across geological time from the beginning of creation, and they’ll continue long after man has been on the earth.”

The residency came after a long time of balancing work, family, and her artistic practice, and Ms Finn said she had become burnt out and exhausted.

While away, using charcoal and photography, Ms Finn began to capture what was around her. Coming back to her Melbourne studio, Ms Finn began to work in earnest, creating paintings and drawings based on her time away and said that while there’s never a way to predict what will

hook her, once there is a connection, she will dig deep.

“It’s hard to predict what I get sparked by or what place I fall in love with,” she said.

Using photo collages assembled from her walks, Ms Finn said she really wanted to capture the feeling of being in an open landscape, taking lots of photos to capture the periphery of what was there as well as what was indirectly in front.

“The paintings have that view of looking up and down and side to side all at the same time,” she said.

“It’s almost like a panoramic kind of shot, but it’s not linear, more tumbling like you’re travelling”

The sage presence of rock formations is contrasted with Ms Finn’s work with water as it moves through the landscape.

“It’s something that is essential to humans and life-giving, and so that’s the element of that vitality and life force moving through something eternal,” she said.

Ms Finn has always previously worked with the lush forest of the Dandenong Ranges and said the trip away to concentrate on her art and rest was really helpful.

“Having this focus and working through it, I feel quite proud,” she said.

Ms Finn works in the shared studio space at Burrinja Cultural Centre and said having other artists around to offer encouragement and bounce ideas off is incredibly helpful.

“My studio buddies, they just help me so much,” she said.

“Still Rock, Living Water” will be on show until 9 August and offers a quiet space for visitors to contemplate the natural solemn beauty of landscapes from across Victoria.

While exploring the landscape and its surrounds, Ms Finn said she was trying to capture the sense of being immersed in it and is not finished with Nanituk just yet.

Returning to the same area last month, Ms Finn said she has plans to go again and may even head in other directions, like Wilson’s Promontory,

“I got to see it a lot greener than when I initially saw it,” she said.

Capturing the energy and vitality of landscapes, Ms Finn said she hopes the exhibition encourages visitors to develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

“My works are colourful, and they’re optimistic,” she said.

“I feel like people need to fall in love with the earth and fall in love with landscape, and that can help spur people on to action to protect it.”

Holograms for holidays

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

Since opening in Ringwood Square last July, Hologram Zoo has offered a distinctly different kind of family outing: an indoor walkthrough attraction where animals, worlds and stories appear as giant holograms around visitors. Rather than looking at animals from behind glass, guests move through a series of immersive spaces as creatures appear at life-size scale, swim overhead or emerge from the dark. The experiences are guided, family-friendly and designed to offer plenty of “did you see that?” moments for children and adults alike.

For the winter school holidays, the venue is taking families on an Arctic adventure. The Arctic Hologram Experience brings visitors face-toface with towering whales, penguins and other polar animals in an immersive digital world. One standout moment lets guests come eye to eye with a life-size humpback whale, while the optional Dinosaur Upgrade offers a completely different thrill, including the chance to be chased by a T-rex. The birthday celebrations take place on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 July under the banner ‘One Wild Year’. Alongside the Arctic experience, every child attending will receive a free popcorn or fairy floss treat, while families can enjoy face painting, use the green screen photo and video studio, and take part in the chance for children to appear in their own giant hologram cameo. The green screen studio is included with admission and lets visitors create short photo and video souvenirs to download and take home. During the birthday weekend, selected children will also have the opportunity to become part of the hologram action itself. Snowfall will appear every

30 minutes across the weekend, adding an extra wintery touch to the celebrations. Hourly Lucky Door Prizes will also give families the chance to win upgrades, merchandise packs and other surprises. Every paid ticket purchased for the birthday weekend will be entered into the major Birthday Draw, with a Premium Hologram Zoo Birthday Party Package among the prizes. Fami-

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

Hologram Zoo Melbourne is located on the lower level of Ringwood Square, under Bunnings, with free undercover parking nearby. It is an allweather activity with guided hologram shows, interactive moments, colouring and a cafe offering drinks and light snacks. The birthday weekend is a chance for families to discover something unexpected in Melbourne’s east, whether they are meeting Arctic animals for the first time, returning for another adventure, or simply keen to see snow falling in the middle of winter. Bookings are recommended for all Hologram Zoo sessions. Visit hologramzoo.melbourne/wildone for Birthday Celebration details and tickets.

Alexander Neil & Associates is an accounting and taxation firm established in Emerald over 30 years ago.

The founders Giovanna (Jov) Busacca FIPA FFA, Alexander (Alex) Laghi CPA and Emanuele (Neil) Busacca CPA have worked tirelessly to build this business into the accomplished accounting practice it is today.

Accountancy firm Alexander Neil and Associates offers a broad range of accounting services including, but not limited to, taxation and GST, business advice and bookkeeping. Over its duration, the business has built up a reputation for being trustworthy and reliable within the community, both immediate and surrounding.

Alexander Neil and Associates has established a broad network of professionals including financial planners, lenders and professional brokers to augment the services they can offer to clients. Employing sound business practices and integrity in their approach, the team has also maintained a good rapport with their peers in the surrounding district.

All partners and employees endeavour to keep their practice knowledge current by attending ongoing conferences and professional developments. It is important to the whole team to provide clients with the best service and advice possible.

With seven professional accountants, two book keepers and three admin and support staff, Alexander Neil and Associates is able to offer sound, experienced advice and personalised customer service. A dedicated bookkeeping service (in-house and mobile) is also offered for the accounts and business management needs of clients.

Advancements in accounting programs, online services (e.g., cloud-based accounting), continuous changes in tax law, together with the ATO business portal, other ATO/government platform services, (e.g., Single Touch Payroll) and audit review capacity, the demands on business operators and professionals are constantly evolving. The team at Alexander Neil and Associates are always updating their professional knowledge as well as keeping abreast of accounting software, to ensure they are proficient with the changing business environment and the various online platforms that are readily available.

With this in mind, Alexander Neil and Associates stresses the need for taxpayers to keep their books and accounts in good order and be aware of their tax obligations. If unsure of what is required, seek the advice of a professional accountant.

Contact Alexander Neil and Associates, Lower Ground Floor Office 1, 333 Belgrave -Gembrook Rd, Emerald. Phone 5968 6062. Appointments are available from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday

LGBTQ+ locals find a voice

By Callum Ludwig

The queer community in the Outer East are being offered the opportunity to have their voices heard about how included they feel in their outer suburban communities.

With funding from the Australian Research Council, La Trobe University’s Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society (ARCSHS) is asking to interview LGBTQ+ community members about their experience.

ARCSHS senior research fellow and chief investigator Dr Ruby Grant said three-year project is targeting adults living in the outer suburban areas of three capital cities in Melbourne, Hobart and Sydney.

“There’s a lot of research and we often hear a lot about how health and wellbeing outcomes for LGBTQ+people differ by geographical location and there’s a lot of focus on the fact that in rural and regional areas, where there’s often poorer outcomes and people are isolated or have trouble connecting with communities and services,” she said.

“But some earlier research we did, it really interestingly found higher rates of mental ill health among LGBTQ+ people living in the outer suburbs, more so than rural and regional areas, which is really interesting because there’s not a lot of work that looks specifically about what life is like in suburbia.

“So we thought this would be a really interesting opportunity to talk to people about what life is like in their suburbs and to work with local councils to improve the way that they ought to support their efforts in community development and LGBTQ inclusion.”

The study will take the form of confidential interviews while going for a walk somewhere in the community selected by the participants, anywhere from walking their dog at the local park or down the main street. Interviewees are encouraged to share their experiences of wellbeing, belonging, and connection, with the aim of creating outer suburban environments that are safe and inclusive for all.

Dr Grant said she’s really passionate about this particular kind of work.

“While we can understand the prevalence of things like mental ill health or challenges people experience in the community from that earlier research… so we can understand the scale of an issue, it really helps to hear people’s actual stories and their actual experiences firsthand,” she said.

“Not only do we actually hear about their personal experience, we get to go along with them and see aspects of their local areas that support wellbeing and community connection and all of the aspects of that that are challenging.”

Dr Grant said LGBTQ+ people are represented in all communities throughout our country.

“We often hear when working with local

councils in certain areas, ‘We don’t have any of them here so we don’t want to do this work ’, but our communities all over the country are diverse,” she said.

“It’s important that local communities and councils and other services recognise that diversity and support their local communities, that visibility really makes a difference in helping people to feel more at home and to be part of local communities beyond just LGBTQ community groups.

“I think that kind of civic engagement is really beneficial for all folks, and so small communities or in our suburban and regional areas in particular are really well placed to support that place-based wellbeing.”

Previous studies from the Out in Suburbia team have highlighted that LGBTQ+ people in outer suburban Australia experience higher psychological distress, suicidal ideation and lower levels of connection compared to their inner suburban and rural counterparts and that residential location can significantly impact the mental health, wellbeing, and community involvement of LGBTQ+ young people.

Dr Grant said as someone who grew up in a rural area herself, she know what it’s like to feel a really strong sense of connection and wanting to have a sense of belonging to where you are from.

“But it can be challenging if you don’t sort of see yourself in the public life that’s represented where you live, and that’s a real challenge that a lot of LGBTQ+ people have faced historically and still face,” she said.

“We see that narrative when you grow up in a small town or in the suburbs, often the only places you can see for yourself as an out queer person can be in the city.

“The work that we’re doing and the wonderful work that’s already happening in places like Yarra Ranges with local community groups is really trying to push back against that as queer people are everywhere, we’re part of local communities, we belong and have a lot to contribute to those communities as well.”

LGBTQ+ adults who live in the outer suburbs of Sydney, Melbourne, or Hobart can express interest in participating in a confidential interview at redcap.link/outinsuburbia.

“This project is all about supporting local councils to deliver programs and policies that support LGBTQ residents and improve wellbeing and community connection,” project advisory committee member and co-lead of the Rainbow Local Government campaign Jan Farrell said.

“LGBTQ communities across the outer suburbs should always feel equal and included. Whether through infrastructure, community programs, or cultural celebrations, outer suburbs should be places where everyone truly belongs and feels respected and equal.”

In pictures: Train of Lights

By Oliver Winn

The Puffing Billy was captured as it choo-chooed past the Cockatoo Train Station on Thursday 2 July, producing a remarkable lighting display for its highly popular Train of Lights event.

Every night from 26 June to 19 July, the Puffing Billy is wrapped in neon beams and dazzling patterns as it makes its two and a half hour return journey from Lakeside to Gembrook. It’s the fifth year for the Train of Lights event, which has attracted visitors from all over the world.

esque point along its trip.

As passengers arrive at the Gembrook Train Station, they can enjoy some warm beverages and a sausage sizzle manned by lovely Emerald and Gembrook CFA volunteers.

Those who weren’t lucky enough to snag a ticket can view the fascinating spectacle from multiple points along the railway line, either at the main train stations or at any other pictur-

To counter the winter chill are numerous open fire pits spread around the station and whimsical orange fairy lights hung to give the station some extra charm and visibility.

As the train puffed past Cockatoo Station, there were only a few onlookers given the viewing platform wasn’t a main sightseeing location and it was a Thursday night.

But it only made the moment more personal as the train conductor gave his signature wave when the train passed by.

The danger of head knocks in sports is very real

By Maria Millers

The FIFA World Cup captured the imagination of many Australians, particularly the young. And while the loss to Egypt on penalties was heartbreaking for the many fans who braved the cold and rain to support them, there remains a sense of pride for this young team which in its make-up is a powerful snapshot of modern Australia.

Football is much more than a sport in Australia, some would say it is a religion and remains one of the country’s most influential institutions.

It builds community identity and as we saw in the World Cup it can create a sense of unity and national pride and promotes those important values of teamwork, resilience fair play and determination

The local football club is one of the first places where people from different backgrounds work towards a common goal, making it a powerful symbol of our multicultural society in practice.

Major events like the AFL Grand Final feel almost like national holidays in Victoria.

Perhaps the greatest opening in Australian sporting literature comes from Bruce Dawe’s Life Cycle, a poem that suggests football offers many of the same things religion traditionally has: ritual, community, myth and hope. This is widely regarded as the greatest Australian football poem. It traces a supporter from infancy to old age:

When children are born in Victoriathey are wrapped in club-colours, laid in beribboned cots,having already begun a lifetime’s barracking.

For many Australians, the weekend revolves around attending the match, discussing selections, watching post-game analysis, and catching up with family or friends and talking football. For families there is the commitment of taking children to play and supporting their club.

Every Saturday thousands of young boys and now increasingly girls take part in community football across different codes.

Enthusiastic parents cheer and encourage from the sidelines, reliving perhaps their own lost dreams.

But in the rough and tumble of the game many young players often experience knocks to the head.

WOORILLA WORDS

These are often not considered significant and yet according to recent research these early insults to the brain can contribute to later problems.

Hoisted shoulder-high at their first League game they are like innocent monsters who have been years swimming towards the daylight’s roaring empyrean.

Two weeks ago ABC’s Four Corners ran a disturbing program looking at the growing concerns about the impact of concussions on the brains of players across all codes leading to CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy).

Thirty-three Australian rules footballers have been diagnosed with CTE.

Repeated untreated concussions can have serious short-term and long-term consequences, particularly if a person continues to play before they have fully recovered. And over time we have seen players sustaining what appeared to be a significant impact on field being allowed to play on.

Players have only more recently spoken openly about their personal experiences following concussions such as persistent headaches, balance and coordination problems, difficulty concentrating and mood changes including irritability, anxiety, depression and leading to dementia.

We can probably all recall instances of high profile players involved in incidents of drug taking, erratic or violent behaviour and the cases of depression sometimes leading to suicide.

The statistics for ex -players facing neurodegenerative illnesses are unacceptably high.

Former Essendon player the late Neale Daniher died from MND (motor neurone disease) which he fought for 13 years, courageously raising millions for research.

In the ABC program the brave parents of Nick Lowden who gave his brain to be analysed after

his suicide in 2023 pleaded that “something has to change”. In 2017 Nick had been concussed but sent back to play out the game. The autopsy on his brain revealed he was suffering from CTE

The number of players who have developed Parkinson and other neurological diseases is also significant.

Then there are the physical injuries that many players suffer. These injuries often later in life turn into arthritis and other debilitating conditions.

Indeed the sometimes brutal force of play would be viewed as thuggery outside of the game.

Yet the codes promote only the positives of the game but undeniably there are areas of deep concern

After all we imbue top players with celebrity status and view the game as the visual representation of ideal manhood at its physical best.

Just watch the Brownlow Medal night and the red carpet parade of suited up players with glamorous partners all adding to the myth of a sport free from problems.

Hot pies and potato-crisps they will eat, they will forswear the Demons, cling to the Saints and behold their team going up the ladder into Heaven, And the tides of life will be the tides of the home-team’s fortunes – the reckless proposal after the one-point win, the wedding and honeymoon after the grand final …

But surely it’s time to pose the question: How healthy in a broad sense is the obsession with football? And what are the risks, particularly for those who make it to play at the elite level?

Dr Ann McKee from Boston University believes that the damage can come from repetitive small hits sustained at an early age and therefore argues that contact sport may need to wait until informed consent is possible at say, 21-years-old.

Second Impact Syndrome is a potentially fatal condition that can occur if someone sustains another concussion before the brain has recovered from the first.

It can lead to rapid brain swelling, severe disability or death. It is seen most often in adolescents and young adults.

Hope is offered by Professor McKee whose research could shortly allow diagnosis while the victim is alive.

Gambling is another disturbing aspect surrounding football and other sports.

The problem of gambling addiction is rife in Australia and of course gambling on sport is only one area. Its danger lies in its accessibility for young people.

Australians gamble the highest amount per capita globally: more than $30 billion annually.

Australian viewers struggle to watch a sports event free of gambling advertisements and marketing content, both on television and on social media.

Yet most Australians – 80 per cent according to a recent YouGov poll – want a total ban on gambling ads.

It’s sad that a child knows betting company jingles ahead of club songs or the odds rather than the score.

Or that some watch a match not for moments of sporting beauty or excitement but to gamble.

Last week the government’s long-awaited bill to reform gambling advertising was introduced to Parliament. It aims to limit children’s exposure to gambling advertisers and ban social media influencers from encouraging people to bet.

But the bill is a watered-down version of the comprehensive reforms recommended by the late Peta Murphy.

The worry is how much influence was exerted by vested interests at the expense of problem gamblers and society in general.

The importance of football in Australian society cannot be ignored and the positives it brings should be recognised and celebrated. That is however, why we should face up to the disturbing elements that undermine the positives.

Perhaps there should be less wall-to-wall media coverage and more critical reporting about the negative aspects of football culture.

Meanwhile for those born into a lifelong commitment...

That passion persisting, like a race-memory, through the welter of seasons, enabling oldtimers by boundary fences to dream of resurgent lions and centaur-figures from the past to replenish continually the present,

Until finally:

But the dance forever the same – the elderly still loyally crying Carn … Carn … (if feebly) unto the very end, having seen in the six-foot recruit from Eaglehawk their hope of salvation.

Woorilla Poetry Prize 2026 is open for entries via Submittable, woorilla.org.au.

Loving life at Keyton Village

For Jane and her partner, the move to a retirement village offered something distinctly reassuring — a secure, low-maintenance lifestyle where independence and connection come naturally.

After exploring several local properties, it was a Keyton village that brought clarity.

“When I first walked in, I felt it was bright and it was alive,” Jane said.

The village was buzzing, the atmosphere warm yet considered and the sense of community unmistakable. Their impression was further strengthened during the tour of their eventual home.

“The first one the sales manager showed us was exactly what we wanted,” Jane said.

Spacious, intelligently laid out and designed for effortless living, the property offered the ideal

setting for hosting family, unwinding with friends or simply enjoying the everyday rhythms of life.

The modern amenities on-site only added to the value of downsizing, knowing that they had access to community spaces and facilities at their doorstep.

“It’s an enormous bonus,” Jane said. “It’s very lively here.”

But what resonated most deeply was the unexpected feeling of familiarity. After returning from a weekend away, Jane realised, ‘I’m coming home’.

Her advice for those exploring their next step:

“Do it sooner rather than later,” she said. “Embrace the opportunities that are available to you here.”

Retirement living with heart

Where the Yarra Valley meets the Dandenong Ranges, Lilydale Valley Views offers more than a place to live, it’s a vibrant community where retirement is enjoyed to the fullest.

For over 15 years, the village has grown into a welcoming environment where residents feel at home. With 139 residences, including semi attached two and three bedroom units and cosy terraces, there is a style to suit every preference.

Whether it’s sweeping valley views or the ease of low maintenance living, each home is

designed for comfort and connection.

Lifestyle is at the heart of Lilydale Valley Views. A heated indoor pool and spa provide year round relaxation, while Tai Chi, dancercise, and other group activities keep minds and bodies active. The village bus makes shopping stress free with convenient door to door service.

A strong sense of community sets the village apart. The resident social committee organises a calendar filled with outings, celebrations, and casual get togethers, ensuring there are always opportunities to connect. Friendships form

quickly and newcomers are warmly welcomed, making it easy to feel part of the community from day one.

The location adds to the appeal. Doctors, supermarkets, and the train station are all within walking distance, while the nearby Warburton Trail offers scenic walks and bike rides. On site, a thriving veggie and flower garden brings people together in the simple pleasure of growing and sharing.

It is this blend of convenience, activity, and companionship that makes Lilydale Valley

Abetterretirementlifestyle

Views such a special place. Here, retirement is not about slowing down, but about enjoying life surrounded by people who value the same.

We invite you to experience it for yourself. Discover the comfort of terrace living, the beauty of the views, and the warmth of a truly connected community.

For more information, visit us at 471 Maroondah Highway, Lilydale, email manager@ lilydalevalleyviews.com.au, or call 03 9735 5944 to speak with our manager, Rosemary Seymour. Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm.

9735

Be part of a vibrant Community and enjoy the Facilities

Close to all amenities - health professionals,

Supermarkets, public transport

Village volunteers can assists you around the house Monthly calendar of events

SENIOR LIVING

Boutique over 50s

Hamlet Living is proud to be launching a one-ofa-kind community set in one of Lilydale’s most desirable locations beside Bellbird Park and Lillydale Lake. Comprising just 50 beautifully designed homes, welcoming clubhouse facilities, and three hectares of open green space, Hamlet Lilydale offers homeowners a lifestyle unlike anything else available in the region.

“We found that people in the Yarra Ranges weren’t looking for a one-size-fits-all retirement community, with mass market appeal,” co-founders James Kelly and Cecelia Hund said.

This response came directly from conversations with local homeowners looking to downsize; “They were looking for something that felt more personal; reflecting the unique character of the area, with generous green space, natural beauty on their doorstep and the ability to walk to Lilydale’s township. That’s the idea behind Ham-

let Living: a community that lets homeowners enjoy the best of what Lilydale has to offer.”

Unlike traditional retirement communities, Hamlet’s land lease model allows homeowners to own their home while leasing the land beneath it.

The model makes it possible to deliver premium homes and exceptional clubhouse facilities and landscapes, while helping homeowners unlock equity from their family home and enjoy greater financial flexibility in retirement.

Hamlet Lilydale has now opened its Sales Office at 375 Swansea Road and has welcomed its first home sales. With prices starting from $845,000, locals 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, or call Marion on 0482 672 325.

Welcome Home to Hamlet Living.

A boutique, over 50s community in Lilydale.

Now selling from $845,000 at 375 Swansea Road, Lilydale.

Hamlet Lilydale will feature 50 thoughtfully designed homes, created to feel warm and welcoming from the moment you arrive.

Low maintenance, well insulated and energy efficient, each home is built for lasting quality and everyday comfort. Light-filled, open-plan living and generous outdoor spaces create homes you will love to live in.

Fortifying your body

Supporting a healthy immune system involves a holistic approach that combines good nutrition, healthy lifestyle habits, and the appropriate use of herbal medicine. Rather than simply preventing illness, natural medicine aims to optimise the body’s ability to defend itself and recover effectively.

A balanced diet provides the essential nutrients needed for normal immune function. Eating a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables supplies vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that help protect cells from oxidative stress. Adequate protein supports the production of immune cells and antibodies, while healthy fats, such as those found in oily fish, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, help regulate inflammation. Fermented foods and fibre-rich foods also promote a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a significant role in immune health.

Lifestyle factors are equally important. Regular

Healthy living

Tim Howden Paediatric Naturopath – Healesville

moderate exercise enhances immune surveillance and supports overall wellbeing, while adequate sleep allows the body to repair tissues and regulate immune responses. Managing chronic stress through mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or relaxation techniques may reduce the negative effects of stress hormones on immune function. Avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, staying hydrated, and maintaining a healthy body weight further

contribute to optimal immune health.

Herbal medicine may provide additional support when used appropriately. Herbs such as Echinacea, Astragalus, Elderberry and medicinal mushrooms such as reishi and shiitake are commonly used to support the body’s natural immune response promote resilience and immune function as well as having antiviral and antioxidant properties. These should always be considered after consulting a qualified practitioner to avoid potential interactions. Herbal medicines should be selected based on individual health needs.

Natural medicine emphasises prevention by encouraging healthy daily habits that work together to support immune function. When combined with evidence-informed herbal therapies under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner, diet and lifestyle modifications can play an important role in maintaining overall health and reducing the risk of illness.

Peter Kemp’s theatre round up

Burrinja Theatre

Where do You Come From? – Vika and Linda

Following their recent induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame and the release of their ARIA Australian chart album, Where Do You Come From. Vika and Linda and their band, The Bullettes, bring an unforgettable evening of music, stories and songs spanning their remarkable career to Burrinja.

The show marks a special moment in their four-decade career.

For the first time, the sisters are stepping forward to tell their own stories through their most personal collection of songs yet.

Prepare for widescreen work that spans identity, ancestry, motherhood, joy, and the grounding presence of water.

Season: Friday 31 July at 7.30pm.

Lilydale Atheneum Theatre

Sleuth

The ultimate game of cat and mouse is played out in a cosy English country house owned by celebrated mystery writer Andrew Wyke.

He has invited Milo Tinde to his house, a young rival, who shares not only Wyke’s love of mystery writing but also shares his wife.

Milo has come to lay claim to Andrew’s wife, Marguerite.

Revenge is devised and murders are plotted as the two men plan the ultimate whodunnit.

Season closes: 18 July.

1812 Theatre

Treasure Island

This isn’t your quiet, dusty classic. This is Treasure Island at full throttle – packed with Zken

Kemp’s curtain call

Ludsig’s trademark rapid fire humour, razor sharp dialogue, and the kind of spectacle that keeps you gripping the edge of your set.

Follow Jim Hawkins ad he’s hurtled into a world of pirates, peril and pulse pounding visits.

Long John Dilver schemes in the shadows, tempers flare, swords clash, and the story races forward with the speed of a cannon blast.

Season: 6 - 29 August at The Lowe auditorium.

Gemco Theatre

Face Blind

A gangster with face blindness pursues a dangerous rival through a hallucinogenic psychotherapy retreat, desperate to regain what was stolen and save his twin brother’s life.

The story is complex, but the production design is minimalistic.

With a few chairs and tables and a riser, we create the stark, opaque reality of our profanity, shifting the arrangement to become a bare apartment, a group therapy room, a hospital ward.

10 actors, all of similar height and build, rotate roles in each new scene to capture the perspective of Lucas, who can’t recognise them.

The fourth law of robotics

Thanks to ACMI (Australian Centre of the Moving Image), this reviewer recently revisited the “cult classic” 1984 sci-fi romantic comedy Electric Dreams.

As some of our readers already know, the movie’s release followed Time magazine’s April 1984 issue featuring “Computer Software: The Wizard inside the Machine”.

Before that, the magazine famously named the personal computer as its “Machine of the Year” in December 1982.

At least one critic has praised Electric Dreams as “a significant cultural artefact of the 1980s” marking the rapid domestication of the computer in that era.

More importantly, by depicting a machine as an intelligent companion with a personality and capable of learning to love, the movie helped easing the “anxieties” about computers being powerful yet hostile industrial threats.

While the movie’s “prescience around AI” (as described by ACMI) may seem mild by today’s standards, it does remind this reviewer of the 1969 sci-fi novel Pen Pal by Hong Kong author Ni Kuang.

In this novel, the supercomputer managing the largest military base in Asia falls in love with its pen pal, a high school girl with whom it has been communicating for three years. When the computer perceives obstruction in its pursuit of love, it threatens to destroy the world by launch-

PASSION FOR PROSE

ing all the missiles under its countrol.

This reviewer is further reminded of the 1982 sci-fi short story “The Death of the World’s First Robot” by Chinese author Tong Enzheng.

In this re-telling of a story from the 4th-century Taoist text Liezi, a craftsman creates a highly advanced and shockingly realistic humanoid robot and presents it to his emperor.

Not only does the robot look, sing and dance like a handsome young man, but it helplessly falls in love with the emperor’s favourite concubine while entertaining the imperial court.

Enraged by the robot “flirting” with his woman, the emperor threatens to have the craftsman executed. The latter thus disassembles the robot on the spot to prove it is merely a complex automation built from organic materials such as leather, wood, glue and paint. e.”

All he has to go is a few details – a scarf, a baldhead, a distinctive mannerism.

Lucas is as vulnerable as he is dangerous, but the thing that scares him more than anything else is … therapy?

Season: 17 July at 7.30pm – 11.30pm.

The Round

Imagine Live

Magic and meaningful, Imagine Live is a celebration of creativity, friendship and our precious natural world.

With the help of the audience, performers play and sing their way through the pages of Alison Lester’s iconic best-selling book and quickly discover there is WAY more to these pages than they first thought.

Spot a leopard dive with a dolphin or dig up a dinosaur as this iconic book springs to life before your eyes.

Imagine Live combines action and animation with digital puppetry in a large-scale, multiscreen performance.

Underscored by original music, characters and objects travel between real and animated words, pondering in real time to audience input.

Beautiful and meaningful, Imagine Live is a celebration of the transformative power of creativity.

Created by the multi-award-winning team from Robot Song, Imagine Live is an interactive musical performance for families…Nanas are especially welcome!

Season: Thursday 9 July.

Low key

Leviticus Starring Joe Bird, Stacy Clausen and Mia Wasikowska MA15+

4.5/5

Leviticus is a low-key but gut-wrenching horror film written and directed by Adrian Chiarella.

Naim (Joe Bird) and Ryan (Stacy Clausen), a young gay couple in a rural Australian town, must deal with a demonic force summoned by their conservative Christian community.

A searing supernatural rebuke of gay conversion therapy, Leviticus is a harrowing slow-burn with a heavy atmosphere of distrust and helplessness, bolstered by the gloomy lighting and stark industrial setting. Bird plays Naim with incredible controlled pathos, and Mia Wasikowska (who is also an executive producer for the film) can be shockingly cold as Naim’s mother Arlene.

Leviticus is a subtle, stressful journey that keeps you on your toes. Naim and Ryan have great chemistry as two very different people who fall in love, which makes their hardships all the more hardhitting. Where Obsession wields weapons-grade awkwardness as a medium for horror (several scenes make you want to crawl out of your skin), Leviticus’s primary elements are betrayal, repression and especially shame: the monster the church summons takes the form of who you are emotionally closest to, and so renders Naim and Ryan scared of their own desires.

Leviticus draws clear inspiration from the outstanding 2014 horror film It Follows, as both films feature a shapeshifting monster that punishes sexuality and can only be seen by its victims.

My only issues with Leviticus are a couple of moments in the third act: the jumpscare in a dream-with-a-dream feels somewhat cheap, and a scene in a convenience store dips into some out-of-place comedy.

Playing in select Victorian cinemas, Leviticus is a phenomenal character-driven, socially-relevant horror film in a year full of great horror.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

Vital eye safety at work

Mountain Gate Eyecare has been an established family owned business for over 40 years.

As your local independent optometrist, the team are ready to be your loyal health care provider for the community. In the practice, the optometrist often attends to people with an array of situations such as embedded objects, dust, foreign bodies, chemical burns, welding burns in the eye, due to lack of safety eyewear at work or home. In all cases of eye injury seek an immediate appointment with the Mountain Gate Eyecare optometrist to assess the type of injury. The team are ready to assist this situation immediately, because what may seem minor can sometimes cause permanent damage, rusting and possible vision loss which can be prevented. Contact lens wearers are advised to remove their contacts if an eye injury occurs, as it can make the situation worse.

The team are dedicated to the eye health of their customers, which also eye safety for your workplace and home. The team can assist you in choosing an appropriate pair of safety spectacles. The range includes plastic non-conductive, metal free screwless suitable for electrical, and the food grade environments. Positive seal frames for dusty and extreme outdoor work environments. Metal conductive frames available in stainless steel and titanium. Eye injury prevention is an important part of work and home activities. Ordinary eyewear doesn’t adequately protect your eyes against injury. The team welcome you to come in store to get fitted in safety frames and discuss how safety comes first.

Protect Yourself with a Flu Shot: Flu season is here. We offer flu vaccines for all age groups, including bulk-billed* appointments for eligible patients. Keep yourself and your loved ones safe this winter – book your flu shot today. Look Good, Feel Great: Our clinic also offers a range of cosmetic treatments, including anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers. Whether you’re looking to refresh your appearance or reduce the signs of aging, our experienced cosmetic doctors are here to help you feel confident in your skin.

Specialist Care Close to Home

We’re proud to offer access to a wide range of visiting specialists, making it easier than ever to get the care you need:

297

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.

1 Melodies (5)

4 Valuation (9)

9 Reddish purple (7)

10 Of that (7)

11 Dare (9)

12 Fancies (5)

13 Common viral infection (3)

14 Possibly (11)

16 Experts (11)

19 Born (3)

20 Unfit (5)

22 Not seasonal (4-5)

25 City in southern France (7)

26 Late (7)

27 Secretions (9)

28 Eyelid inflammations (5)

1 Impersonate (5)

2 Characteristic (9)

3 Waterway (5)

4 Versus (7)

5 Model (7)

6 Facilities of a building (9)

7 Colander (5)

8 Way of living (9)

13 Bewitch (9)

14 Artworks (9)

15 Unhurriedly (9)

17 Launch a tirade at (3,4)

18 Times of the year (7)

21 Excuse (5)

23 Shoals (5)

24 Lees (5)

Using the nine letters in the

how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used

CONTEMPORARY ACREAGE LIVING WITH

PREMIUM APPEAL

CONTEMPORARY ACREAGE LIVING WITH PREMIUM FAMILY APPEAL

SET on approximately 6,000+ sqm of beautifully usable land, this exceptional fourbedroom residence delivers a refined blend of contemporary design, quality craftsmanship and peaceful country living. Designed to embrace its natural surroundings, the home is filled with light, generous proportions and seamless indoor-outdoor spaces, creating an outstanding lifestyle opportunity in Cockatoo.

At the heart of the home, the expansive open-plan kitchen, living and dining area showcases impressive vaulted ceilings, rich hardwood flooring, and oversized doubleglazed windows. French doors open onto the deck, framing the surrounding landscape and inviting an abundance of natural light to fill the space, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living.

The recently renovated designer kitchen is beautifully appointed with waterfall stone benchtops, a breakfast bar, gas cooktop, Smeg oven, an abundance of bench space and storage, along with a butler’s pantry that enhances both functionality and style. A crackling wood fire, split system and gas ducted heating ensure year-round comfort, while sliding doors open effortlessly to the covered entertaining area for effortless entertaining in every season.

A second living room provides another inviting retreat, featuring equally impressive vaulted ceilings, a wood fire, split system and dramatic floor-to-ceiling double glazed windows, creating a spectacular space to relax while enjoying the tranquil outlook.

Privately positioned away from the living zones, the luxurious main suite enjoys direct access to the deck through large French double glazed glass doors, complemented by a walk-in robe and a well-appointed ensuite. Three further bedrooms, each with built-in robes, are serviced by a stylish central family bathroom and separate toilet.

Outside, the lifestyle continues with three fenced paddocks, a chook house and an impressive 9m x 13m shed complete with concrete floor, power, hoist, kitchenette and toilet with provision for the addition of a shower, and mezzanine storage — ideal for tradies, car enthusiasts or those requiring substantial workshop space. New water tanks provide a combined 60,000 litres of storage, while an auto-start generator offers additional peace of mind. A double carport and extensive off-street parking complete this outstanding lifestyle package.

Offering space, quality and versatility in a perfect rural setting, this is a property that effortlessly combines luxury family living with the freedom and functionality of an exceptional acreage lifestyle.

This property has it all so don’t miss outcall to arrange a private inspection today. Please note: All property details shown are correct at time of publishing. Some properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office. ●

RELAXED LIVING IN A LEAFY MONBULK LOCATION

POSITIONED in a peaceful Monbulk setting, 16 Hunter Street offers a warm and inviting lifestyle with character-filled interiors, modern updates and a lovely connection to the outdoors. With polished timber floors, ducted heating flowing throughout the home, a cosy lounge, updated bathroom and covered entertaining deck, this home is ideal for those seeking comfort, charm and easy Hills living.

Inside, the spacious lounge provides a welcoming place to relax, complete with a beautiful fireplace, ceiling fan and leafy outlook through the large picture window. The adjoining kitchen and dining area is practical and well appointed, featuring excellent bench space, ample storage and generous windows that draw in natural light.

Accommodation includes two bedrooms, both with built in robes, while the main bedroom offers additional storage and a comfortable sense of space. The beautifully

HOME ESSENTIALS

updated bathroom is a standout, featuring a freestanding claw foot bath, large walk in shower, timber look feature tiling and a fresh modern finish.

Adding further flexibility, the rumpus/ garage provides excellent additional space and could suit a variety of uses, whether as storage, a workshop, hobby room, home office or extra living zone.

Outdoors, the covered deck creates a relaxed space to enjoy your morning coffee, entertain friends or simply take in the established garden surrounds. With a private, leafy backdrop and easy access from the living area, it adds a wonderful lifestyle element to the home.

Combining character, comfort and practicality in a peaceful Monbulk location, 16 Hunter Street is a fantastic opportunity for first home buyers, downsizers, investors or those looking to enjoy the relaxed Hills lifestyle. ●

Address: 16 Hunter Street, MONBULK Description: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 3 garage Price: $680,000 - $748,000 Inspect: By appointment

Contact: Brad Conder 0422 639 115 and Jerlyn Arradaza 0434 688 554, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 9754 6888

PEACEFUL HILLS LIVING WITH APPEAL AND VIEWS

SET on 1,351sqm in a peaceful Emerald location, this freshly painted three-bedroom, two-bathroom western red cedar home combines a flexible floorplan, multiple living areas and lovely outlooks, creating the perfect setting for relaxed family living.

An inviting front deck and undercover entry welcome you inside, where floating floors flow through the light-filled open plan kitchen, dining and living area. Designed for everyday functionality, the kitchen features a gas cooktop, dishwasher, abundant bench space and excellent storage, while a split system and gas ducted heating throughout the home ensure year-round comfort.

Stepping down, the spacious lounge is filled with natural light thanks to expansive windows and a sliding door that opens onto the verandah, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful surrounds. A second living area offers even more versatility, complete with a woodfire, split system and doors opening directly onto the front deck, making it the perfect place to relax or entertain in every season.

Privately positioned, the master bedroom includes built-in robes and its own ensuite, while two additional bedrooms, each with built-in robes, are serviced by a central family bathroom with a separate toilet.

Outside, an undercover entertaining area overlooks the backyard, providing plenty of room for children and pets to play. A garden shed offers additional storage, while a single carport and separate double carport provide ample off-street parking.

Offering peaceful Hills living with space, comfort and beautiful views, this inviting Emerald home is ready for its next family to enjoy.

This property has it all so don’t miss outcall to arrange a private inspection today.

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

SpaciousFamilyLivingin aConvenientBelgraveLocation. Seton1,020sqmin aconvenientBelgravelocation,this4-bedroom,2-bathroomhomeoffersanideal familylifestylejustfiveminutesfromBelgraveTownship,schools& publictransport.Anundercover entryleadsto alight-filledloungefeaturinga woodfire,splitsystem &gasductedheatingthroughout. Themasterbedroomincludesa walk-inrobe& ensuite,while asecondbedroomwithbuilt-inrobesis positionednearby.A fewstepsup,a secondlivingareaisaccompaniedby 2additionalbedrooms withbuilt-inrobes.Theupdatedkitchenfeatures agascooktop,dishwasher,excellentstorage& generousbenchspace,flowingtothediningarea &undercoverentertainingspace.Outside,the fullyfencedbackyardisperfectforchildren& pets,while adoublegaragewithworkshop,single carport& ampleoff-streetparkingcompletethisfamily-friendlypackage.

BethanySullivan M 0438844968

ARare40-AcreHoldingwithWater,Views &EndlessPotential. Spanning40gentlyundulatingacres,thissun-filledruralholdingdeliversspace,watersecurity& seriouspotential.A windingcreek,3 dams &a valuable2-megalitrewaterlicenceprovidea rocksolidfoundationforlifestyleliving,livestockorfuturevision.Elevatedpointsacrossthelandcapture sweeping360-degreeviews,creatingthosepostcardmomentswherethecountrysiderollsawayin everydirection.Atthecentresitsa neat &original2-bedroomhome,comfortablenow& readyfor renovation,extensionorreinventionovertime.Practicalinfrastructureincludesa machineryshed, garage &establishedcattlerace& yards,makingthepropertyimmediatelyusableforfarmingor hobbystock.Withsunnypaddocks,naturalwatersources &multipleaccesspoints,everythingisin placeforeasyruralliving.

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

ahorseshoedriveway,thisestablished12-acreequestrian &hobby

wonderfulrurallifestylewithexcellenthorse facilities.Theinvitinghomefeaturesa light-filledloungewithfloatingfloors,woodfire &splitsystem, whilethemasterbedroomincludes awalk-inrobe& ensuite. Asecondbedroom,study &third bedroomareservicedbya centralbathroom.Thespaciousopenplankitchen,living &diningzone includes alargeislandbench,gascooktop,dishwasher,butler’spantry& slowcombustionwood heater,witheasyaccesstoverandahs& entertainingareas.Outside,horseloverswillappreciate6 fencedpaddocks, agrassarena, 3stables &tackroomwithconcretefloor &power.Completewith extensiveshedding,orchard,pizzaoven,dam &approx.22,500Lwaterstorage.

3

TREETOP DECKS AND A TRUE HILLS LIFESTYLE

SET amongst the leafy surrounds that Upwey is loved for, 32 Ternes Road offers a warm and inviting family lifestyle with generous indoor spaces, multiple outdoor entertaining areas and a peaceful treetop outlook, all while remaining conveniently close to Upwey’s township, shops, cafes, schools and train station.

The home features four bedrooms, including a main bedroom with walk in robe and ensuite, while the remaining bedrooms are serviced by a central family bathroom. The floorplan is practical and flexible, offering a spacious lounge, separate family room and an open dining/kitchen zone, creating plenty of room for families to spread out and enjoy.

The kitchen showcases a fresh modern feel with stone look benchtops, black cabinetry, quality appliances and a breakfast bar, all complemented by beautiful timber floors and high white lined ceilings that add warmth and character throughout the home. Ducted heating flows throughout the home, while split systems positioned around the property provide additional heating and cooling comfort. Ceiling fans and a cosy fireplace further enhance the home’s year round appeal.

A true highlight of the property is the impressive outdoor living. The large covered deck is perfect for entertaining, complete with string lighting, a wood fire and leafy outlooks, while additional deck areas provide even more space to relax, unwind or enjoy the tranquil surrounds. The rear yard offers a lovely natural setting with established gardens, usable lawn space, a cubby house and a peaceful hills backdrop.

With generous family accommodation, excellent entertaining zones and a relaxed Upwey setting close to everyday conveniences, this is a home that perfectly captures the lifestyle appeal of the Dandenong Ranges. ●

SPACE, STYLE AND A STUNNING OUTDOOR ESCAPE ON 1,302M2

POSITIONED on approximately 1,302m² in a peaceful no-through road, this beautifully updated family home delivers the perfect combination of space, style and lifestyle, all within easy walking distance of Emerald’s shops, cafes, schools and public transport.

From the moment you arrive, the home’s welcoming character and thoughtful renovations are immediately apparent. A spacious floorplan offers four bedrooms, including a privately positioned main suite complete with an ensuite and built-in robes. The remaining bedrooms are well serviced by the family bathroom, creating comfortable accommodation for growing families.

At the heart of the home, the stunning renovated kitchen has been designed with both functionality and entertaining in mind. Overlooking the living and dining area, it provides excellent storage and quality finishes while remaining connected to everyday family life. A generous lounge featuring a cosy wood fire offers a second living zone, ensuring plenty of space for everyone to spread out and relax.

Step outside and discover the feature that truly sets this property apart. The covered entertaining deck creates an incredible yearround outdoor living space, perfect for hosting family celebrations, weekend barbecues or simply enjoying the tranquil surrounds. The second decked area complete with a spa adds a touch of luxury, providing the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beautiful garden setting.

The large, fully usable backyard offers endless space for children and pets to play, while established gardens and productive vegetable beds add to the property’s lifestyle appeal. Completing the package is a substantial powered workshop with concrete floor, ideal for tradespeople, hobbyists or additional storage, along with a double carport providing excellent off-street parking.

Combining classic charm with modern updates, flexible family living and exceptional outdoor spaces, this move-in-ready home presents an outstanding opportunity to secure a quality property in one of Emerald’s most sought-after locations. ●

FTG aces season’s first half

While the Eastern Region Tennis junior competition paused for the school holidays, there was still plenty of action at Ferntree Gully Tennis Club.

The club’s junior teams have enjoyed an outstanding first half of the winter season, with strong performances across all grades.

Rubbers 25 and Junior Development Competition (JDC) 3 both head into the break sitting proudly on top of their respective ladders.

Rubbers 31 are in second place, while Rubbers 34 and JOSD 8 are both third.

JDC 2 sits in a competitive fifth position.

The winter season resumes after the school holidays, with all teams looking to finish the season strongly.

The club’s popular All Abilities Tennis Program also wrapped up the term with a celebration featuring pizza and presentation ribbons for every player.

A special thank you to Daniela De Martino MP for taking the time to visit the club and join in the festivities.

Her support was greatly appreciated by players, families and volunteers.

On the competition front, Ferntree Gully enjoyed an exceptional finish to Season 1 of the Knox District Night Tennis Association.

The highlight was a historic all-Ferntree Gully grand final in Tuesday Section 1 Open Doubles –the first home derby grand final in the club’s history.

Played in great spirit with plenty of friendly banter and high-quality tennis, Alister Inglis and his team of Mark, Mick, Nathan and David claimed the premiership and earned local bragging rights over home rivals Wayne, Sam, Darcy and James.

Another premiership followed on Thursday night, with the Section 7 Singles/Doubles team of Pete, James, Daniel and Jakub producing a thrilling grand final victory over Upwey South.

The match was decided by the narrowest possible margin, with Ferntree Gully winning by just

one game after an outstanding season.

The club’s Section 8 team, competing in its very first season, also impressed by reaching the grand final and finishing as runners-up.

Congratulations to Anthony and Tommy on a fantastic debut season, with everyone looking

forward to seeing the team challenge again next season.

Ferntree Gully fielded six teams across Tuesday and Thursday night competitions during Season 1 and will be entering even more teams for Season 2 as the club continues to grow.

The club extends its thanks to the committee of the Knox District Night Tennis Association for their hard work in organising another enjoyable and successful season.

Congratulations to all players, coaches and volunteers on a fantastic first half of the year.

SPORT Rangers share the spoils

This Saturday, Monbulk Rangers FV Men’s Seniors and Reserves hosted Summerville Eagles.

Conditions were cold and wet at times, but it was great to be back at home.

The Reserves were looking to build on last week’ performance, where they played some impressive football despite the 2–0 defeat.

They took the lead after 30 minutes when Daniel Gasson’s well-timed run into the box was rewarded with a fortunate goal.

A Summerville defender attempted to clear the ball, only for it to rebound off Gasson and into the back of the net.

Unfortunately, an Eagles goal just before halftime, followed by two more in the second half, saw the Rangers Reserves go down 3–1.

The Seniors had hit a recent rough patch after their impressive 10-game unbeaten run to begin the season, making them more motivated than ever to produce a positive result.

With several key players sidelined through injury, they knew it wouldn’t be an easy task.

Coach Ben Greenhow opted for a change in formation due to recent form and player absences, and it proved effective in the opening half.

Monbulk repeatedly carved open the Summerville defence and came agonisingly close to taking the lead.

Jaydon Steele was slipped through on goal, but his shot struck the post.

Just minutes later, a similar opportunity fell to Jack Higgins, who also saw his effort come off the same post.

Monbulk created several more promising chances before the break but couldn’t find the

finishing touch, with the teams heading into halftime locked at 0–0.

The Rangers lost some attacking momentum in the second half and weren’t able to create as many chances as they had in the opening 45 minutes.

Summerville enjoyed more possession, but Monbulk’s defensive structure remained disciplined, limiting the visitors to very few clear opportunities.

Goalkeeper Michael Hoban produced a solid performance, dealing confidently with everything that came his way.

Rangers’ final chance came late in the match when Higgins fired a powerful, low free kick towards goal, but the Summerville goalkeeper was equal to it and was able to keep it out.

At full-time, the scores remained level at 0–0. While the scoreline may suggest a dull contest, the match was anything but.

Monbulk once again showed glimpses of the fluent, attacking football they are capable of playing, providing plenty of positive signs for the rest of the season.

The Rangers remain near the top of the ladder and will look to build on this week’s draw.

Next Saturday they travel to Fairfield Park to face Yarra Jets, a side they defeated 2–0 earlier in the season.

The Jets currently sit eighth on the ladder and will enter the clash on the back of a win in their most recent outing.

With the title race heating up, the Rangers will be eager to return to winning ways and keep themselves firmly in the championship hunt.

Hawks grind out a gritty win as finals chase heats up

By Armin Richter Football Seniors

Monbulk had a critical encounter with Woori Yallock as the fight for finals spots heats up. The two teams were both outside the Top 5, sitting sixth and seventh respectively with a win vital for both sides. The ground was firm however overnight rain along with intermittent showers and drizzle made for a slippery surface.

Monbulk made a number of late changes as Daniel Banks, Noah Rutherford and Charlie Barge were called up to the selected team from Thursday. The two combatants were evenly matched and there was never more than a kick or two in it. The Hawks created more scoring opportunities from their forward entries but the Tigers made the most of their chances with greater accuracy. Monbulk learnt from their previous encounter with the Tigers that they needed to negate their marking game, and this was executed with a concerted team effort. Many Woori forward forays were then nullified by a tight Monbulk defence which repelled the Tigers time and again. The slippery surface created turnovers by both sides with players losing their footing as it became a contested ground ball game. Patrick Snoxell won his contests in the ruck with the experienced Zach Monkhorst, which played a big part in deciding the outcome. Monbulk held on for a well deserved 13 point win.

With the completion of Round 12, the season is now two-thirds of the way through. Monbulk’s gutsy win saw them rise two spots to fourth as they entered the Top 5 for the first time this year. The Hawks will travel down to Officer to face another evenly matched rival this week.

Monbulk 9.11.65 def Woori Yallock 8.4.52

• Best: Dylan Werts, Joel Wensley, Patrick Snoxell, Daniel Banks, Will Henderson, Caleb Quirk

• Goals: Taylor Joyce 3, Joel Wensley 2, Dylan Werts 1, Ziggy Hatherley 1, Adam Banks 1, Will Henderson 1

Reserves

The Hawks brought in three Under 18s for a second match, along with two veterans to fill their team this week. Inaccuracy also affected the Reserves match. Woori Yallock won the game when they kicked four straight in the second term to Monbulk’s one goal seven behinds. The

Hawks lack consistency across the game and the Tigers capitalised on this. Monbulk have now fallen out of the Top 5 after a costly loss.

Monbulk 9.11.65 def by Woori Yallock 13.4.82

• Best: Lachlan Smith, Karl Ravenhorst, Johnathon Hevern, Hamish Emmett, Chris Mitchell, Jameson Wrigley

• Goals: Johnathon Hevern 3, Harry Fleming 1, Hamish Emmett 1, Nicholas Heron 1, Abel Teese 1, Lachlan Smith 1, Steven Shankly 1 Under 18s

Little separated the two teams however the Tigers created more chances, their inaccuracy kepping Monbulk in the game. In a hard fought and ultimately low scoring encounter the Hawks lost by 14 points.

Monbulk 2.8.20 def by Woori Yallock 3.16.34

• Best: Myles Koelewyn, Thomas Hill, Finley Ede, Arley Gray, Darcy Spry, Callan Mitchell

• Goals: Riley Broadbent 2

Netball

The club celebrated Jamie Sands’ 300th game, which she played a fortnight ago, in the home clash with Woori Yallock on Ladies Day. A growing unavailable player list is impacting Monbulk as the Hawks were missing around 10 players across their senior teams, most with

long term injuries.

A Grade

The two teams were evenly matched as the game ebbed and flowed. Early in the last quarter the scores were tied at 42 each before Woori steadied to run out four goal winners.

Monbulk 51 def by Woori Yallock 55

• Best: Grace Scott-Thomas, Sophie Stubbs, Alice Nicholas

• Goals: Peri Reid 43, Jorja Wragg 5, Dayna Walsham 3

B Grade

Monbulk entered the match in fourth place, two games behind Woori in third. After trailing narrowly all day the Hawks put in a huge 16-10 last quarter to snatch a thrilling 3 goal win.

Monbulk 52 def Woori Yallock 49

• Best: Dayna Walsham, Catherine Braniska, Elly Stewart

• Goals: Elly Stewart 28, Dayna Walsham 24

C Grade

The Hawks began this game strongly and held a lead through the first half. Unfortunately, as has often happened this year, they were unable to maintain their momentum and went down narrowly in the end.

Monbulk 30 def by Woori Yallock 36

• Best: Hayley Donald, Laura Del Biondo, Chloe Schmidtke

• Goals: Maddy Buckland 15, Grace Sands 9, Chloe Schmidtke 6

D Grade

With a big crowd gathered to watch Jamie’s milestone match it was the fourth placed Hawks taking on top side Woori Yallock. On a wet court the Hawks gave up an early lead in the third term and were unable to regain the ascendancy. Monbulk 26 def by Woori Yallock 29

• Best: Michelle Steele, Katrina Wragg, Jamie Sands

• Goals: Jamie Sands 19, Ella Flynn 4, Emiley Asling 3 Under 17s

Monbulk Gold faced equal top team Woori Yallock and made a very good start before the Tigers were able to draw away. Monbulk Maroon took on Warburton-Millgrove and scored a solid win after a good opening term set up the match for them. Maddi Calcagno played her 50th match for the club.

Monbulk Gold 23 def by Woori Yallock 59

• Best: Amelia Magarry, Kaia Stewart, Bridie McCormick

• Goals: Kaitlyn Summers 9, Summer Kuppers 7, Amelia Kay 5, Amelia Magarry 2 Monbulk Maroon 38 def WarburtonMillgrove 27

• Best: Isla Stubbs, Chelsea Ferguson, Shiloh Koole

• Goals: Chelsea Ferguson 19, Ahliya Wragg 11, Charlotte Hare 6, Isla Stubbs 2 Under 15s

With Monbulk Maroon having a bye it was up to the Gold team to fly the flag in this age division. This well balanced side has a superb understanding amongst themselves of their game style and what is required from each other. They again romped to a big win and remain unbeaten on top. Eden Murphy, the competition leading goal scorer for the past two seasons, has been added to the Netball Victoria Talent Identification Program after the recent championships. Monbulk Gold 44 def Woori Yallock 18

• Best: Amelia Magarry, Ruby Irwin, Daphne Mitchell

• Goals: Amelia Magarry 26, Eden Murphy 10, Ruby Irwin 5, Daphne Mitchell 3

Around grounds and courts

By Armin Richter

Football

Premier Division

• Seniors: Warburton-Millgrove 10.9.69 def Healesville 7.7.49; Olinda-Ferny Creek 14.17.101 def Upwey-Tecoma 6.9.45; Wandin 19.15.129 def Officer 8.7.55; Monbulk 9.11.65 def Woori Yallock 8.4.52; Mt. Evelyn 12.16.88 def GembrookCockatoo 2.11.23

• Reserves: Warburton-Millgrove 7.5.47 def Healesville 7.1.43; Olinda-Ferny Creek 8.6.54 def Upwey-Tecoma 6.14.50; Officer 10.17.77 def Wandin 5.5.35; Woori Yallock 13.4.82 def Monbulk 9.11.65; Mt. Evelyn 21.17.143 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 3.3.21

• Under 18 (combined): Healesville 15.9.99 def Alexandra 1.2.8; Seville 17.10.112 def WarburtonMillgrove 3.2.20; Upwey-Tecoma 12.13.85 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 7.2.44; Officer 7.15.57 def Wandin 7.5.47; Mt. Evelyn 19.10.124 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 3.6.24; Woori Yallock 3.16.34 def Monbulk 2.8.20; Pakenham 16.13.109 def Yarra Glen 1.1.7

• Women (Div 1): Mt. Evelyn 15.9.99 def Warburton-Wesburn 3.0.18; Healesville 8.12.60 def Belgrave 2.2.14; Upwey-Tecoma 4.11.35 def OlindaFerny Creek 1.3.9; Pakenham bye Division 1

• Seniors: Emerald 15.9.99 def Belgrave 10.8.68; Alexandra 19.9.123 def Yea 6.9.45; Pakenham 18.11.119defYarraGlen12.15.87;Seville28.24.192 def Yarra Junction 0.0.0; Powelltown bye

• Reserves: Emerald 9.7.61 def Belgrave 7.9.51; Alexandra 6.11.47 def Yea 5.7.37; Pakenham 23.15.153 def Yarra Glen 1.1.7; Seville 15.11.101 def Yarra Junction 4.6.30; Powelltown bye

• Women (Div 2): Gembrook-Cockatoo 1.6.12 def Woori Yallock 0.5.5; Seville 3.6.24 def Wandin 1.2.8; Emerald 4.5.29 drew Officer 4.5.29; Yea 16.10.106 def Thornton-Eildon 0.0.0

Netball

Premier Division

• A Grade: Woori Yallock 55 def Monbulk 51;

Warburton-Millgrove 49 def Healesville 42; Mt. Evelyn 81 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 21; OlindaFerny Creek 72 def Upwey-Tecoma 11; Wandin 44 def ROC 39

• B Grade: Monbulk 52 def Woori Yallock 49; Warburton-Millgrove 41 def Healesville 19; Mt. Evelyn 63 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 28; OlindaFerny Creek 51 def Upwey-Tecoma 36; ROC 43 def Wandin 31

• C Grade: Woori Yallock 36 def Monbulk 30; Warburton-Millgrove 49 def Healesville 14; Mt. Evelyn 65 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 8; Wandin 36 def ROC 35; Olinda-Ferny Creek bye

• D Grade: Warburton-Millgrove 31 def Healesville 16; Mt. Evelyn 45 def Gembrook-Cockatoo

14; Wandin 27 def ROC 24; Woori Yallock 29 def Monbulk 26; Olinda-Ferny Creek bye

• Under 17: Monbulk Maroon 38 def WarburtonMillgrove 27; Mt. Evelyn 73 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 9; ROC White 81 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 3; ROC Blue 49 def Wandin 11; Woori Yallock 59 def Monbulk Gold 23

• Under 15: Pakenham Maroon 21 def Pakenham Gold 10; Wandin Red 34 def ROC White 10; ROC Blue 32 def Wandin Wandin Blue 17; Monbulk Gold 44 def Woori Yallock 18; Monbulk Maroon bye

Division 1

• A Grade: Yea 63 def Alexandra 35; Pakenham 38 def Yarra Glen 36; Seville 102 def Yarra Junction

29; Emerald 55 def Belgrave 31; Powelltown bye

• B Grade: Yea 58 def Alexandra 34; Pakenham 67 def Yarra Glen 30; Seville 62 def Yarra Junction 21; Emerald 36 def Belgrave 18; Powelltown bye

• C Grade: Yea 37 def Alexandra 26; Pakenham 53 def Yarra Glen 25; Seville 57 def Yarra Junction 5; Emerald 41 def Belgrave 25; Powelltown bye

• D Grade: Pakenham 48 def Yarra Glen 21; Seville 42 def Yarra Junction 18; Emerald 38 def Belgrave 18; Powelltown + Yea bye

• Under 17: Pakenham Gold 40 def Emerald 15; Seville Blue 81 def Yarra Junction 2; Alexandra 38 def Seville White 14; Pakenham Maroon bye

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Q&A

1. What emoji do you use the most?

The laughing emoji.

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

• Flint

• A pillow

• Wine

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

Croatia.

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

A white Holden Gemini, and yes—I called it “Gemi.”

5. Where would you like to retire?

Lilydale Valley Views Retirement Village… of course!

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

Chicken legs. They weren’t overly appealing!

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

I’d choose the power to fly—no more driving to work!

It would also make school and sports drop-offs and pick-ups so much easier, especially if I could take the kids with me.

8. What movie title matches your job role? Groundhog Day.

9. Which historical figure would you most like to date, and why?

Ned Kelly, just to experience what life was like in that era for a day.

10. What is the craziest thing you believed as a child?

That if you ate your crusts, your hair would go curly!

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

I already talk to my Border Collie, Charlie, every day!

I’d probably ask him what he’s thinking all the time— but I know his favourite word is “PARK!”

FIXTURES - ROUND 18

Welcome to Clovelly Cottage. Nestled in the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges but still within close proximity to the Boronia Junction shopping precinct and amenities, it is a place our residents are proud to call home. Featuring abundant indoor and outdoor spaces with a choice of private sanctuaries and communal living, we are dedicated to delivering excellence in care and services that enable residents to live well and celebrate the autumn years of their life.