Tuesday, 1 September, 2026
Health orgs combine voluntarily
Badger Creek honours life member
YV wineries win big at wine awards
See Real Estate liftout inside
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A Star News Group Publication
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Lions roar over Seville By Oliver Winn Pakenham remain undefeated after beating Seville 15.7 (97) to 11.8 (74) in the second round of this season’s finals, securing them a spot in the grand final. The clash took place during sunny conditions at the Don Road Recreation Reserve on 29 August. Second quarter saw Pakenham up 63-33, and that scoreline only increased by the third, where they sat comfortably with a 96-46 point lead. But a determined Seville outfit kicked into gear in the last quarter, limiting Pakenham to one point while scoring 28 of their own. It wasn’t enough though, and the Blues will be kicking themselves after failing to convert four crucial behinds. Pakenham’s win secured them a spot in this year’s Grand Final, where they look to cap an undefeated run this season. Meanwhile, Seville take on Alexandra in the Prelims. See the top pics from the match on page 37
Pakenham secured their spot in this year’s grand final after beating Seville. (Rob Carew: 574925)
Pay to park stays Yarra Ranges Council has voted to make paid parking permanent in Warburton despite growing opposition from local traders. Councillors backed the retention of the scheme at the 25 August council meeting following a 12-month pilot introduced in May 2025 to manage weekend and holiday tourist traffic. Under the scheme, Yarra Ranges residents park for free while visitors pay in designated zones. Evaluation report data showed the trial generated approximately $240,000 in revenue and
infringement costs. While setup and operational costs reached $411,000, ongoing annual maintenance is estimated at $50,000. O’Shannassy Ward councillor Jim Child said the trial successfully eased traffic congestion, improved parking turnover, and had a minimal impact on commerce. “The 12-month pilot delivered clear, objective data across traffic flow, economic performance, and operational sustainability,” Cr Child said. He noted regional expenditure rose five per cent during the period, though council acknowledged the data included neighbouring towns due to sample
size constraints. Local business owners strongly rejected the findings. Three Sugars Cafe owner Lachlan Dixon said paid parking had hurt trade. “At the end of the day, no business is doing better with paid parking. It has hindered us all,” he said, suggesting fees should only apply during peak holiday periods. Chookhouse manager Tayla Osborn said falling foot traffic forced her venue to reduce operating hours. Melba Ward councillor Mitch Mazzarella said
cash-only metres should be installed. Mayor Richard Higgins confirmed there are no immediate plans to expand paid parking to other townships. Revenue raised is earmarked for local reinvestment. Both Ms Osborn and Mr Dixon said greater transparency regarding funding allocation could ease community concerns. A council spokesperson said administration will determine the allocation process, noting funds have not yet been assigned to specific projects.
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