Tuesday, 19 May, 2026
Record penalties for labour hire law breaches
A trip to the island of Ambon for Anzac Day
Mooroolbark artist’s newest exhibition
See Real Estate liftout inside
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A Star News Group Publication
Phone: 5957 3700 Trades and Classifieds: 1300 666 808
Time to call it out Glen Park Community Centre hosted its second annual purple ribbon event on Wednesday 13 May to mark Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month. Attendees tied purple ribbons to oak trees to honour victims and break the silence surrounding abuse. Centre chief executive officer Heidi Butler-Moore highlighted the staggering statistics of family violence, noting its impact on youth mental health and the LGBTQIA+ community, while calling on men to model respect and kindness. The event concluded with a raffle raising funds for Safe Steps crisis service. If you or someone you know needs support, contact Safe Steps 24/7 on 1800 015 188. Turn to page 7 for more
The purple ribbon event was hosted under Glen Park’s old oak trees and attended by staff, community members and local councillors. (Mikayla van Loon: 553523)
How you can help Despite unseasonably warm autumn weather, preparations are in full swing for the annual Yarra Valley Winter Shelter, which is set to open its doors on 1 June to provide emergency accommodation for those experiencing homelessness during the coldest months. Organised by Stable One in partnership with local churches, the heavily volunteer-based initiative is currently recruiting to fill a pool of 150 volunteers needed for shifts, transport, and laun-
dry. Group orientation sessions have been scheduled, with the training including guest speakers addressing trauma and addiction to help volunteers navigate complex guest experiences. Stable One Chief Executive Officer Katherine Kirkwood emphasised that understanding these complexities is vital to breaking down stigma. “Understanding produces empathy,” Ms Kirkwood said, describing the project as an act of “radical hospitality.” To support the frontline efforts, grant funding
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from the St Andrew’s Foundation and the Sisters of Charity has secured dedicated operations and welfare coordinators to assist volunteers and manage guest casework. Additionally, a donation from Community Bank Mount Evelyn has funded new stretcher beds and inflatable mattresses for the shelters. Demand for the shelter is expected to be high this year. Partner organisation Anchor Community Care, which assesses and refers guests, reports being overwhelmed by the sheer volume of need. While Ms Kirkwood acknowledged that the
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volunteer-run model cannot solve every complex case, she stressed the importance of community collaboration. The initiative continues to expand, welcoming Montrose Church of Christ to its local network of seven partnering churches, alongside a new interstate affiliate on the Gold Coast. Those over the age of 18 interested in volunteering, particularly for difficult-to-fill overnight shifts, can find more information at stableone.org. Read more on page 6
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12450347-LB23-20
By Mikayla van Loon
12841991-EA09-26
We have large capacity Washers and Dryers! Suitable for King size Doona or big families. Pet machines also available
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33 Hutchinson Street, Lilydale Open from 7am-11pm
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NOW OPEN