Mail - Lilydale Star Mail - 28th April 2026

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Anzac Day this year saw large turnouts at services held across townships in the outer east, marking a testament to the spirit of Australia’s determined diggers who fought all those years ago.

As dawn broke across Lilydale, the cenotaph was surrounded by thousands of community members who gathered to pay their respects to servicemen and women of decades gone by.

“We’re here to acknowledge the sacrifices of the original Anzacs in 1915. This includes all the ADF people since World War One, who have patriotically served our country,” Lilydale RSL president Bill Dobson said in his opening address.

Down at Hookey Park in Mooroolbark, a poignant focus was placed on the 75th anniversary of the Royal Australian Army Nursing Corps and the evolving role of women in the nation’s defence.

The service, attended by hundreds, served as a powerful reminder that the Anzac legacy is not held by men alone.

“This memorial is a tribute to the sacrifices made by Australian women and nurses under the most difficult circumstances,” Cr Higgins said, drawing attention to the new Nurses Memorial Garden at Montrose.

Montrose’s town square was filled with locals as they remembered and commemorated the An-

zacs who fought for a better tomorrow - one that we now live today.

The 111th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing, which would later become a day of respect and reflection known as Anzac Day, was told through the words of St Richard’s Primary School students Alyssa and Mason.

“Anzac Day is not just a date on the calendar; it is a day that carries deep meaning for Australians and New Zealanders. It is a day when we pause to reflect on the courage, sacrifice and mateship shown by those who came before us,” Mason said.

In Mt Evelyn, many made their way to the memorial park in the dark, where people stood

solemnly as they reflected on the sacrifice of the diggers.

2026 also marked 75 years since the inception of the Royal Australian Army Nursing Corps (RAANC) and National Service, including Mt Evelyn RSL’s own treasurer Chris Thiele, as RSL president Matt Crymble acknowledged in the opening of the service.

“Today we pause and pay respect to our servicemen and women who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for this great nation, further, we acknowledge and respect all those who have served our nation in defense, both in war and in peace,” Mr Crymble said.

Cranbourne man rescued

By Tanya Steele

A Cranbourne man has landed in the hospital after slipping down off a popular walking track and lookout in Mount Dandenong over the weekend.

Sunday 26 April, around 6pm, a multi-unit response from emergency services assembled to rescue the lone hiker from the Kyeema walking track, which is popular for its city views.

A media spokesperson from Victoria Police said the man was walking solo on the trail between Burke’s Lookout and Kyeema Track when he slid down a steep embankment about 6.10pm.

Monbulk and Wandin CFA, Police, Lilydae SES and Victoria Ambulance staff and volunteers attended the rescue, bringing specialised expertise for the high-angle rescue to the situation.

A media spokesperson from Victoria SES said that the VICSES Lilydale Unit volunteers were called on the night to assist ambulance crews following reports of an injured patient.

“Upon arrival, VICSES volunteers worked alongside CFA to undertake a steep angle rescue operation and successfully retrieve a single patient from down an embankment, before transferring them into the care of paramedics,” said the spokesperson.

Ambulance Victoria Advanced Life Support (ALS) paramedics assessed and treated the man at the scene, and a media spokesperson said the man, in his 20s, had suspected upper and lower body injuries when he was first assessed.

“He was transported by road ambulance to the hospital,” they said.

The site of the rescue has a steep incline, and local volunteer emergency services often caution visitors to take care when trekking around the area.

Emergency services rescued the 20-year-old in the dark along a steep track in Mount Dandenong on Sunday. (SES Lilydale social media).

Unit Controller at Lilydale SES, Shaun Caulfield, said that with the west-facing sunset views, the Kyeema track has a steep incline and can be quite rocky.

“It’s about being safe and aware,” he said.

“A reminder that walking in the dark comes with risks and the walking tracks around Mt Dandenong are narrow, and while the views are spectacular, real caution is needed to avoid falls down the steep hills,” read the Lilydale SES social media.

New safety measures

Mooroolbark’s Landscape Drive is set for a major safety overhaul to protect local students and residents from speeding drivers.

The Federal Government has announced $182,000 in funding from the Black Spot Program to install raised safety platforms on the busy stretch of road, which sits directly adjacent to Rolling Hills Primary School.

The upgrades come in response to growing community alarm over traffic speeds in the school zone.

“This project has come about because residents and school staff raised their concerns about vehicles driving at 10 km/h over the speed limit, past the local school,” Victorian Senator Lisa Darmanin said.

vent tragedies.

“The Black Spot Program delivers low-cost improvements that have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing the risk of serious crashes and fatalities on our roads,” she said.

Senator Darmanin emphasised that the primary goal is ensuring the youngest members of the community can walk to class without fear.

“It is great to see the safety platforms funded to help kids at Rolling Hills Primary get to school safely, and to support all the residents who use Landscape Drive,” she said.

The government is encouraging more residents to speak up about dangerous roads in their own neighbourhoods. Nominations for future safety upgrades can be made by individuals, community groups, or local councils at any time.

“I encourage individuals, organisations and local governments to nominate sites in their local communities at any time for consideration in the next funding round,” Minister McBain said.

The project is part of a broader $48 million investment into Victorian road safety for the 2026-27 period. By installing raised platforms, the project aims to force a reduction in vehicle speeds at a location specifically identified as high-risk by local experts and community members.

Minister for Regional Development Kristy McBain noted that these types of targeted upgrades are among the most effective ways to pre-

For details on funded projects, to make a nomination, or for further information on the Australian Government Black Spot Program, visit: investment.infrastructure.gov.au/about/ local–initiatives/black–spot–program.

Vandals continue to target memorials

If elected, the Liberals are promising to legislate a specific offence for vandalism and desecration of war memorials and other religious, cultural and historic sites.

Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence jointly announced the policy with Opposition leader Jess Wilson, having campaigned on the issue in Parliament for years after a spate of incidents in her district.

Ms Vallence said this is a really important announcement not only for our local community but for the whole state of Victoria.

“I think sadly, tragically, for over a number of years we’ve seen too many cases of vandalism of our war memorials and other significant monuments, particularly through the Yarra Ranges, from low-level to more serious offending,” she said.

“Any attack on a war memorial is an attack on those people who have served our country to protect our way of life, to protect our freedoms, our democracy and we owe a duty to them to respect them through the war memorials.

“It’s why we have Anzac Day and Remembrance Day, and we all gather around these places of significance to pay our respects and honour all of our servicemen and women, particularly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.”

The Liberals propose that the new offence will carry a maximum penalty of ten years imprisonment and, notably, result in a mandatory order that offenders must pay the costs of repair and restoration. Incidents in the Yarra Ranges have

cost anywhere between hundreds and tens of thousands of dollars to restore war memorials, with RSLs or community groups often footing a fair portion of the bill.

Mt Evelyn RSL president Matt Crymble said he wanted to raise an incident at the Montrose memorial in 2023.

“Montrose was deliberately done in the dark hours, and the following day was Remembrance Day, they deliberately did that to stop us paying our respects to our fallen, and I was most upset,” he said.

“It’s not tagging a shop window or something like that, and the penalty, we believe, should be firmer, harder, and I support this proposal for tougher laws.

“The RSL is an apolitical organisation, we can’t jump from one party to another, but I know Bill (Dobson) will agree, if it’s a good proposal and it does better for our community and the veteran community, then let’s get it in.”

Lilydale RSL president Bill Dobson said the names on these war memorials are names of people who didn’t come home.

“It’s like a cemetery, you’re desecrating something that is very important to Australian families,” he said.

“We do a lot of the education side of things going around to schools as much as we can and generally speaking, the kids are terrific out there but there must be an element out there that don’t care.

“It’d be a long bow to say that it’d never happen again, but you’d think people would think about it a bit more and if it’s worked in New South Wales, why can’t the government here introduce these laws.”

Currently, the vandalism and desecration of war memorials is treated the same as any other intentional destruction or damaging of property, also with a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment or up to 15 years’ imprisonment if lives are endangered. Theft also carries a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment.

Damage considered to be less severe, such as scratching or graffiti, is likely to receive a lesser sentence, but it remains to be seen whether the courts would consider the new offence any differently from other property damage.

A Victorian Government spokesperson said memorial vandalism is already punishable by jail time and huge fines under existing laws.

“This policy isn’t about fixing a problem – it’s about the Liberals chasing One Nation votes,” they said.

“If Liberals win power, it’s veterans who will pay the price, with cuts to the health services they rely on.”

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IN BRIEF

Mooroolbark woman charged

A Mooroolbark woman was charged along with a Sandringham man after they were allegedly found acting suspiciously near a restaurant in South Yarra early Thursday morning.

Police were called to Toorak Road around 3.30am on Thursday 23 April where the duo were allegedly seen with jerry cans inside a vehicle near the licensed premises. Officers quickly intercepted the vehicle and arrested the pair.

A search of the vehicle allegedly located jerry cans, accelerant, an imitation firearm, and drugs.

The 31-year-old Sandringham man was charged with possessing an imitation firearm, possessing methylamphetamine, using fraudulent registration plates, possessing a controlled weapon, and dealing property suspected of being proceeds of crime.

The 22-year-old Mooroolbark woman was charged with possessing an imitation firearm, possessing methylamphetamine, using fraudulent registration plates, possessing a controlled weapon, and possessing a drug of dependence. Both were bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 9 November.

More train services

The Lilydale and Belgrave train lines will run more frequently after more investments into public transport are delivered off the back of a international fuel crisis.

Trains will run every 20 minutes to the end of the line on weekday evenings – up from every 30 minutes, while every 10 minutes trains will run on the Ringwood corridor.

The State Government made the announcement on Monday 20 April to address rising costs due to the US and Israel’s war with Iran that forced the closure of the world’s busiest fuel corridor.

The cost of public transport has also been reduced, with free travel now and half-price fares from 1 June.

Glass recycling thoughts

The Yarra Ranges Council is asking locals for their thoughts on a State Government request to add a glass recycling bin.

The State Government has directed councils to introduce a new glass recycling service by mid2027, adding a fourth bin at home.

“More bins can mean less space, more confusion and higher costs for Yarra Ranges residents, at a time when many are already feeling the pressure of rising living expenses. It could also mean more trucks on our roads and increased emissions,” the council said in a Facebook post.

“We think there’s a better way to recycle glass and we want the State Government to hear what you think.”

Locals can share their thoughts by completing this short, anonymous survey: forms.office. com/r/em2QJVtrnG

Government. (File)

Lighting up for inclusivity

By Mikayla van Loon

Community sport in Melbourne’s outer east is set for a significant transformation following a major funding announcement aimed at leveling the playing field for local athletes.

The State Government confirmed that the Kilsyth Recreation Reserve and Esther Park in Mooroolbark are among 78 projects sharing in the $18 million Local Sports Infrastructure Fund.

The investment marks a critical step in modernising facilities to keep pace with a massive surge in local participation.

Yarra Ranges Council will receive $125,000 for the Kilsyth Recreation Reserve Sports Field Lighting Upgrade, bringing the infrastructure up to a 150 LUX standard.

North Eastern Metro MP Sonja Terpstra said the boost would support the “growing number of people in Croydon keen to get involved in local sport”

“It’s a great example of how the Allan Labor Government is making sport and recreation more accessible, welcoming and inclusive for all Victorians,” Ms Terpstra said.

Yarra Ranges Council’s Acting Director of Built Environment and Infrastructure Vincenzo Lombardi, noted that at Kilsyth, the new LED towers will meet AFL competition standards, providing the Eastern Ranges Football Club with “a match environment perfect for evening games and training.”

At Esther Park, the installation of an energy-efficient LED system is being hailed as a game-changer for the Mooroolbark Soccer Club and its “current ageing infrastructure”

Club President Stuart Milne emphasised that the upgrade is essential for the club’s newly promoted Senior Women’s program and potential women’s program expansion in 2027.

“Upgrading the lighting is a critical piece of the puzzle for us,” Mr Milne said.

“Being able to host games under lights opens the door to more appropriate scheduling, including Friday nights, which we see as a key and equitable timeslot for our female footballers.”

The upgrade also aims to foster club unity. Mr Milne said that better lighting allows the club to work toward Saturday fixtures where women can play following the men’s teams.

“That alignment is incredibly important for building visibility, crowd engagement, and stronger connection between all parts of the club,” he said.

Beyond match days, the LED system will address safety and logistical hurdles. Mr Milne noted that current constraints forced players to train as early as 4.30pm, stating the new lights will provide “safer, more flexible training environments.”

Mr Lombardi said high-quality LED lighting will go a long way in “improving safety and visibility into the evening”, but also in a practical sense of “reducing maintenance and running

Locals left waiting for intersection

By Gabriella Vukman

Locals have been left in the lurch as works on the promised new intersection of Killara Road and Maroondah Highway are yet to take place.

Following a seven-year process from advocacy to funding allocations, the intersection of Maroondah Highway and Killara Road in Coldstream remains unchanged.

The plan was initially to build traffic lights on Coldstream’s Killara Road-Maroondah Highway intersection, which would provide huge convenience for drivers to turn right from Killara onto Maroondah Highway.

Federal Member for Casey Aaron Violi, said, “It is really frustrating that we’re still waiting for the Killara Road intersection to be upgraded.”

“The facts are that in 2019 the Liberal government at a Federal level gave the money to State Labour, so they’ve had the money for over seven years,” he said. Funds for the intersection’s upgrade were saved after a 90-day infrastructure review of the federal budget in 2024.

According to Mr Violi, the State Minister confirmed in writing that pre-work would start in 2024 for construction in 2025.

Mr Violi said, “We’re in 2026 now, and nothing has happened.”

“I’ve been advocating since being elected in 2022 for the road to be upgraded and to be built.”

The Victorian Government confirmed the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) has been engaged in preconstruction activities on the

project, including a detailed assessment of scope elements, determination of site impacts, and work on the delivery strategy for the project.

A spokesperson for the Department of Transport and Planning said, “We’re continuing to work with the Commonwealth Government to assess options to upgrade the Maroondah Highway and Killara Road intersection in Coldstream.”

The Maroondah Highway and Killara Road intersection upgrade project was committed to by the previous Commonwealth Government in 2019, without prior consultation with the Victorian Government on project scope and costings.

According to the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP), since that initial commitment, the Department has conducted essential planning investigations and value engineering reviews.

costs”

“We know these upgrades have been long-awaited for users of both parks and we’re thrilled that we’ll be able to deliver them over coming months,” he said.

The funding comes as new data from Sport and Recreation Victoria reveals that 330 funded projects over the last two years have increased sports participation by 43 per cent, adding over 70,200 new participants, including a 19 per cent jump in female players.

However, while the lighting is a “huge and very welcome step,” Mr Milne cautioned that more work remains to achieve what he previously called “utopia”

He pointed to the urgent need for female-friendly change rooms to allow men’s and women’s programs to run side-by-side.

“Without both compliant lighting and expanded facilities, that growth will be difficult to support,” Mr Milne said.

Funding for the intersection was handed

the State Government in 2019. (Stewart Chambers. File: 548749).

The Department noted in May 2025, upon completing these assessments, DTP informed the Commonwealth Government that the revised cost estimate for delivering the final project design exceeded the original funding allocation. According to DTP, it is working with the Commonwealth Government to review these investigations.

Independent announced

By Callum Ludwig

Another Outer East candidate for the 2026 Victorian election has emerged, seeking a spot in the state’s upper house.

Lifelong Yarra Ranges local and independent candidate Antoinette Pitt has put her hand up for the Eastern Victoria region.

Ms Pitt said she decided to run because she’s seen firsthand where the system is falling short — in healthcare, housing, and cost of living.

“I don’t believe the major parties are moving fast enough or listening closely enough to the people on the ground,” she said.

“Running as an independent means I’m not tied to party lines or political agendas, it means I can represent the community directly, focus on practical solutions, and work with those following the evidence, to get outcomes.

“This campaign is about putting people before politics — and bringing real-world experience into decision-making.”

Ms Pitt’s connection to the region is strong, having grown up in Lilydale, married her husband from Mooroolbark and started a family in Montrose.

Not just content to live in the community, Ms Pitt is committed to it having been part of Friends of Music at Yarra Hills Secondary College to help fundraise and support their carols, helped out with the Montrose Community Cupboard and volunteered as an Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation job representative for her workplace, Lifeblood Ringwood Donor Centre, where she is a nurse.

A “deep interest” in recycling has also led her to establish a special interest group within Lifeblood to support staff engagement with recycling at home and at work which has grown to over 150 members nationally.

Ms Pitt runs an annual Trash Art challenge to promote National Recycling Week in November, assists her team to recycle polystyrene, rescue unused saline and bandages for Animal

Rescue Co-Op, collects containers from refreshments to raise funds for the Leukaemia foundation through Envirobank and holds another position with Medcycle, supporting healthcare to reduce their waste to landfill.

Ms Pitt said her work in nursing has given her a clearer picture of her community.

“I’ve worked across Eastern Victoria, taking nursing placements in Bairnsdale and Philip Island and filling in at Traralgon donor centre… working alongside patients, families, and other healthcare workers, and understanding the real pressures people are under, ” she said.

“Through my work as a nurse and in healthcare sustainability, I’ve connected with communities right across the region — from outer

metro growth areas through to regional towns.

“As a nurse, I’ve been trained to assess problems, prioritise what matters, advocate and act with a holistic approach, that’s exactly the approach I’ll bring to representing Eastern Victoria.”

The biggest issues Ms Pitt is hearing across Eastern Victoria are:

The housing crisis — people being priced out, pushed into insecure housing, or at risk of homelessness.

Homelessness — people are embarrassed and ashamed that we are a 1st world country that chooses to make people beg.

Public school funding — paying teachers a respectful, liveable wage and fully funding pub-

lic schools before 2031, so teachers don’t have to fill the gap out of their own pockets.

Cost of living pressures — affecting families, workers, and small businesses.

Food security - Victoria’s farmers feed our communities, steward the land, and face increasing droughts, floods, and extreme weather.

Ms Pitt said these aren’t isolated issues — they’re connected.

“For example, housing instability is directly impacting health outcomes and putting pressure on hospitals, she said.

“Investing in food security will keep food abundant and affordable, to help with cost of living.”

For her personally, the most important issues are:

Strengthening our public healthcare system, including supporting the workforce and addressing system pressure.

Addressing the housing crisis, including recognising public housing as preventative healthcare.

Cost of living relief, especially where it intersects with essential services.

Climate action that is practical and community-focused.

“Across all of these, my focus is on prevention, long-term thinking and making sure policies actually work in the real world,” Ms Pitt said.

Ms Pitt encourages constituents to find out more about her or reach her via the website kindcouragechange.com, or on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram or Youtube.

Ms Pitt said she’s not coming in with all the answers, she’s coming in with real experience and a commitment to work with the community to get better outcomes.

“If something isn’t working for you, I want to hear about it, that’s how we build policies that actually reflect people’s lives,” she said.

“I’m running because I believe people are ready for a different kind of leadership — one that’s grounded in lived experience, honesty, empathy and practical action.”

Varroa mite in the valley

By Oliver Winn and Gabriella Vukman

Beekeepers of the outer east are on alert after the world’s deadliest honey bee parasite was found in Gembrook on 16 April.

Six registered beekeepers from the Yarra Ranges have reported the dreaded varroa mite, which has wreaked havoc among beekeepers since it was introduced in 2022.

With the ability to destroy entire colonies, varroa mite poses an existential threat to honey bees in Australia and the industries reliant on their pollination.

When Gembrook-based beekeeper Michelle Van Der Vlugt discovered the small, brown, eight-legged mites within her bee hives, she knew she had to act fast.

“If I left it any longer, chances are my hives would not survive winter,” she said.

Scientifically known as Varroa Destructor, this parasitic mite is one of the most damaging pests in modern beekeeping.

Like a silent killer, varroa spreads undetected within hives, feeding on the bodily tissue of worker bees and eventually crippling entire colonies.

But Ms Van Der Vlugt, who runs Bec’s Beehive Supplies, has managed to detect the mites in her hives before it’s too late.

“Well I’ve only just found it so it’s about meeting the threshold of how many mites are in the hive to work out whether we need to treat yet,” she said.

But treating varroa mite is a tricky game. Use too much of one treatment, and the mites become chemically resistant. Use too little, and the mites spread throughout the hive.

When varroa mites develop resistance to one or more treatment chemicals, valuable tools for controlling their populations are lost.

“By treating when there are not enough mites it can be a little bit detrimental to the mode of ac-

tion and overuse of chemicals,” she said.

The varroa mite originates from Asia, where it has been a natural parasite of the eastern honey bee for hundreds of years.

While the eastern honey bee can coexist with the varroa mite, Western honey bees have been unable to adapt to the presence of the mite, which spread to other bee species during the 1940s.

Despite invoking the largest multi-agency plant biosecurity response in Australia’s history upon its arrival in New South Wales in 2022, the varroa mite has continued to spread.

The mite has now been found throughout Victoria, South Australia, and Queensland, with

a new, chemically resistant population emerging up north.

The costs of treating varroa mite forced many beekeepers out of the industry in 2022 and has had flow-on effects to other industries too.

“It becomes quite expensive for each hive when you need to use a different treatment and how many treatments you need per hive and as compared to how many you purchase at once,”

Ms Van Der Vlugt said.

Aside from using common chemical treatments such as Bayvoral and Apitraz, early detection, education and local support are also essential for beekeepers when managing varroa mite.

An Agriculture Victoria spokesperson said beekeepers should inspect their hives to look for signs of a varroa mite infestation.

“Early detection is important, and being prepared to manage the pest if it is found.

“Beekeepers are encouraged to ensure they are registered with Agriculture Victoria and report positive Varroa detections through their online BeeMAX diary,” an Agriculture Victoria spokesperson said.

Ms Van Der Vlugt said she’d taken an active approach to raising awareness around varroa mite.

“I have my Facebook posts or social media where I’m even showing myself using the treatments and showing the equipment and different uses, multiple uses for it,” she said.

Member of Emerald Regional Beekeepers Club Bronwyn Koll said beekeepers are best positioned to fight varroa when they’re a part of a local beekeeping club.

“That’s where all of the interconnectedness and cooperation is.”

While the threat of varroa mite is unprecedented, beekeepers from the Yarra Ranges and beyond have reason to remain hopeful.

Australian beekeepers have had time to learn from other countries affected by varroa mite, and while other nations have calculated that they could lose up to 50 per cent of their hives over their winters, Australia’s milder winter could lessen the damage down under.

But, as chemically resistant populations emerge, Ms Van Der Vlugt said there’s no doubt varroa mite poses an existential threat to honey bees and destroying beekeepers’ livelihoods.

“It’s devastating when they think their livelihood is coming to an end.”

Beekeepers should report any suspected exotic bee pests and diseases to the national Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881 immediately.

Minister meets with community groups across region

By Tanya Steele

Federal Shadow Minister Matt O’Sullivan met with several community groups across the Belgrave area in outer east Melbourne on Tuesday 21 April.

Invited by Federal Member for Casey MP Aaron Violi, Senator Matt O’Sullivan, the Shadow Minister for Child Protection and the Prevention of Family Violence, and Shadow Minister for Choice in Childcare and Early Learning, talked with a range of community stalwarts of the Yarra Ranges.

Mr Violi said it was fantastic to have Senator O’Sullivan in Casey to hear firsthand about local childcare and family violence challenges.

“We have many wonderful volunteer-run groups doing incredible work across our community, and it is important for the Shadow Minister to hear about the issues impacting communities like ours,” he said.

Key members from Mums of the Hills, Foothills Community Care, Selby Community House and Rotary Belgrave were invited by the Coalition to sit down with Mr Violi and Senator O’Sullivan to bring their voices and experience to the newly appointed Shadow Minister.

The two toured parts of Belgrave and Upwey, listening to the local groups discuss local takes on issues related to both child care and family violence.

Mums of the Hills (MotHs) President Belinda Young took the visiting politician through what their community group does for mothers in the region, from their online support to real-time classes.

“Sadly, we’ve got a lot of Mums that do or have experienced family violence,” she said.

Other MotHs present dived into the challenges of childcare, career and the cost of living, detailing the frustrations and harsh realities faced by mothers caught in long waiting queues for spots, a lack of options and working to foot a childcare bill.

Senator O’Sullivan said on the day that he wanted to understand where the challenges are across his portfolios, particularly in the child care area, and learn what they can do to make things better.

“I’m really trying to learn as much as I can,” he said.

Over in the newly opened Foothills community hub in Upwey, the duo joined with CEO Stephen Barrington, staff and volunteers on-site around mid-morning.

Members of the family violence peer support group spoke passionately about their lived experiences with family violence, the court system, restraining orders and the huge difficulties women face when leaving a partner.

“It was a significant morning of connection and deep listening,” said Mr Barrington on social media.

At Selby Community House, house manager Danielle Steele showed the Shadow Minister around the empty grounds of the house, which is still closed due to structural issues and operating out of multiple venues in the area.

In a win for the house, the Selby childcare services have just begun again at Menzies Creek Primary, and Ms Steele said the service is vital to locals.

“We’ve got people that really need this service,” she said.

In Belgrave South, hosted by staff at the White Wolf Cafe, Rotary members from across Belgrave and Victoria sat down with the politicians to discuss their plans to throw more of their support to boost local awareness to both support impacted families and prevent future family violence in the area.

“We’re moving on to raise awareness in the local community,” said Gus Rozycki, District 98115.

Deputy Opposition Whip in the Senate, Chair of the Education and Employment References Committee and Deputy Chair of the Education and Employment Legislation Committee, Matt O’Sullivian was sworn in as a Senator for WA in

2019 and is not the first Shadow Minister to tour the Yarra Ranges with Mr Violi.

Shadow Minister for Early Childhood Education Angie Bell MP also visited the Casey electorate in February 2024, visiting Cire Services, MotHs and Orange Sky Australia.

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) classifies any seat held by less than six per cent as marginal, and at the moment, the next Federal Election is not expected until early to close to mid 2028.

2025’s Federal election saw the Liberals win the Casey seat with 52.89 per cent of the vote.

Earlier this month, the Coalition began suggesting a policy overhaul in childcare and Senator O’Sullivan was appointed to his current role from his previous position as Shadow Assistant Minister for Fisheries, Forestry and Infrastructure.

He said in his appointment speech that the Coalition believe that parental choice should drive childcare policy.

“Governments should empower families with real options, not force them into a ‘one size fits all’ approach favoured by Canberra,” he said on 2 March.

“As a Coalition, we will continue advocating and developing policies that restore Australians’ standard of living and protect our way of life,” said Mr Violi.

With another day of visits across Montrose and parts of the Upper Yarra community planned for Wednesday 22 April, the Liberals were on

move across Casey.

Accommodation headache

By Gabriella Vukman

Local industry figures are voicing growing concern that labour hire in the Yarra Ranges is being increasingly constrained by a single, persistent issue: accommodation.

Across both agriculture and tourism, employers describe a system where their ability to secure workers, whether through visa programs, labour hire agencies, or local recruitment, is ultimately determined by the availability of housing for those workers.

Thepressureisunfoldingagainstaslow-growing and structurally constrained housing market in the Yarra Ranges.

Population growth in the Yarra Ranges is projected to average just 0.6 per cent per year between 2016 and 2041, an increase of about 24,037 people.

At the same time, only 12.5 per cent of residents are renting privately and just 1 per cent are in social housing, with the overwhelming majority of properties either owned outright or under mortgage.

The dominant housing type remains separate houses, limiting the availability of higher-density or short-term accommodation options that could support a more mobile workforce.

This housing profile leaves little flexibility for incoming workers, particularly seasonal or temporary labourers, effectively tightening the labour pool despite ongoing demand.

While the council facilitates on-farm housing through seasonal worker accommodation permits and planning processes, industry operators say these frameworks are not doing enough to address the underlying shortage of available housing.

Director at Australian Strawberry Distributors (ASD) Joe Ripepi, said the issue is limiting how many workers farms can bring in, even when labour is available through established schemes.

“Unfortunately, we’d love to hire a lot more people but we need to be able to accommodate them to do that.”

“We can house 40 people here on our property comfortably but we used to be able to accommodate 80 before the one person per 10 square metre rule came in after covid,” he said.

“Now we can only have one person per room, so that means we need to rely on finding accommodation in Lilydale for the rest.”

According to Mr Ripepi, the reduction in onsite housing capacity has had a direct impact on labour supply, forcing farms to scale back hiring despite ongoing demand for workers.

Ripepi said the problem extends beyond individual businesses and requires broader coordination.

“The problem is that the agriculture industry can’t provide enough accommodation on its own, so state and local governments need to step in and help create housing if we want more overseas workers to come,” Mr Ripepi said.

An employer of workers participating in the PALM scheme, Mr Ripepi noted he wants to increase the number of workers ASD takes on board.

Mr Ripepi said, “The people we’re getting at the moment are from Vanuatu and they are

beautiful people and they make some good money coming here.”

“We’re happy to pay them because they’re lovely people and they do a really good job,” he said.

Labour hire arrangements themselves also add complexity and cost, with agencies playing a central role in managing overseas workers and their logistics.

Mr Ripepi said, “The labour hire agency takes care of the PAM scheme, under government control.”

“On top of paying the workers, we also have to pay a commission fee to the agency for providing and managing that service,” he said.

“I don’t know why we’ve got to pay superannuation for people that come here and work for six months from overseas and then go back home.”

Despite these structured systems, accommodation shortages in towns such as Lilydale continue to restrict how many workers can be placed.

The same pressures are being felt in the tourism sector.

Owner of Kangaroo Ridge Retreat in Heales-

ville Rebecca Ritter, said housing affordability is making it difficult to attract and retain staff on a domestic level.

Ms Ritter said, “Housing’s an issue for multiple reasons.”

“People who need to work are not looking for a 10-hour, or 15-hour job during the high season. They’re looking for full-time work.”

“To be able to afford a house out here on that casual wage that most of us offer is almost impossible,” she said.

Ms Ritter described the situation as complex and unlikely to be solved by a single policy change.

“Housing is really such a multifactorial issue.”

According to Ms Ritter, the absence of affordable housing is also limiting the ability of businesses to employ locals, even where there is a willingness to build a local workforce.

Ms Ritter said, “It would be really great to be able to hire a lot more people from the local area, but housing for locals is very expensive, so therefore it’s really hard to hire locally,” she said.

Backpacker labour, often tied to the 88-day regional work requirement, is another potential workforce stream, but access depends on both postcode eligibility and the availability of accommodation.

While some postcodes in the Yarra Ranges qualify for the 88-Day working visa that allows internationals to stay longer in Australia, others do not, rendering it difficult for hirers outside of those postcodes to source labour through 88-Day visa extension scheme.

Across the Yarra Ranges, the message from industry is consistent: workers are available, and businesses are willing to hire, but without sufficient, affordable and compliant accommodation, labour hire systems cannot operate at the scale required.

Housing, rather than labour supply itself, is emerging as the defining constraint on the region’s workforce.

The Yarra Ranges Council and the Labour Hire Authority were contacted for comment.

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ANZAC DAY

Light will always shine

As dawn broke across Lilydale, the cenotaph was surrounded by thousands of community members who gathered to pay their respects to servicemen and women of decades gone by.

The Anzac Day service on Saturday 25 April was another showing of gratitude and appreciation for the men and women who chose army, navy, airforce and nursing service in World War I and beyond.

The service opened with the names of Lilydale’s fallen read by students from Chirnside Park Primary School, a sombre reminder of the reason for gathering at the War Memorial.

“We’re here to acknowledge the sacrifices of the original Anzacs in 1915. This includes all the ADF people since World War One, who have patriotically served our country,” Lilydale RSL president Bill Dobson said in his opening address.

“Over 107,000 gave their lives in the hope that we can live peacefully. May we, as the modern day successes, prove worthy of their sacrifices.”

Current Army serviceman Trooper Bailey spoke of the significance of 2026 as being 125 years since the Australian Army formed.

“For 125 years, the Australian Army has stood as a symbol of service to our nation, from its beginning of Federation in 1901 through to the present day, it has been shaped not only by conflict, but by the character of the men and women who have worn this uniform,” he said.

Trooper Bailey said the “Anzac spirit was first forged under the harshness of conditions” in Galliopoli where “ordinary Australians showed ex-

traordinary resilience”

Whether closer to home on the trails of Papua New Guinea or further away in the jungles of Vietnam, Trooper Bailey said the legacy of Australia’s first diggers was carried with them.

“Australia has served far from home, entering the call of duty in complex and challenging environments, and in more recent decades, in places like Afghanistan and Iraq.

“Australian soldiers have continued that legacy, serving with professionalism, courage and commitment across all of these conflicts.”

As someone who now puts on the uniform himself, Trooper Bailey said the values of mateship, resilience and selflessness were not just words but lived everyday.

He spoke of the generations of Australians who have gathered similarly on Anzac Days to not only remember the past but to reflect on who we are today.

“In the stillness of this morning, as the sun rises, we are reminded of something simple yet powerful, that even in the darkest of times, there is light.

“So today, we stand together, not just in memory, but in gratitude.”

The service was attended by Yarra Ranges Council mayor Richard Higgins, Casey MP Aaron Violi and Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence.

Students from Mount Lilydale Mercy College, Lilydale Primary School, Lilydale High School, Chirnside Park Primary School and St Patrick’s Primary School played an active role in the service.

Mt Evelyn marks 111 years

By Callum Ludwig

In Mt Evelyn, many made their way to the memorial park in the dark on Saturday 25 April.

111 years since the landing at Gallipoli, large crowds in our local communities still gather to honour the legacy and sacrifice of those who fought in that fateful campaign and all that followed.

2026 also marked 75 years since the inception of the Royal Australian Army Nursing Corps (RAANC) and National Service, including Mt Evelyn RSL’s own treasurer Chris Thiele, as RSL president Matt Crymble acknowledged in the opening of the service.

“Today we pause and pay respect to our servicemen and women who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for this great nation, further, we acknowledge and respect all those who have served our nation in defense, both in war and in peace,” Mr Crymble said.

“Today at home and abroad, our servicemen and women continue to defend our values and way of life, we thank them for their service and

the continued protection they provide.

“The Anzac legacy remains today and is carried on by our current serving members.”

Pastor Lukas Edwards of the Mt Evelyn Christian Reformed Church then came forward to lead a prayer, followed by the Anzac Requiem, read by president of the Mt Evelyn Cricket Club Tim Heaphy.

The poems ‘In Flanders Fields’ and ‘We Shall Keep the Faith’ were read by Mt Evelyn Football Netball Club president Steve Martin and Tess Barreiro of the Mt Evelyn Fire Brigade respectively.

RSL vice president Brad Jones stepped forward to read Mt Evelyn’s honour roll, consisting of 15 men who died while on active service during World War One, World War Two and the Vietnam war.

Piper Iain Townsley played as community members laid wreaths followed by the Ode to the Fallen by Mr Crymble and The Last Post performed by trumpeter Paul Winter.

Vocalist Robyn Farrell helped bring the service to a close with her rendition of the New Zealand and Australian national anthems.

ANZAC DAY

Anzac spirit lives on

By Mikayla van Loon

Under a beautiful autumn day, a crowd gathered in Montrose’s town square to remember the men and women who sacrificed so much to ensure others could live freely.

The 111th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing, which would later become a day of respect and reflection known as Anzac Day, was told through the words of St Richard’s Primary School students Alyssa and Mason.

“Anzac Day is not just a date on the calendar; it is a day that carries deep meaning for Australians and New Zealanders. It is a day when we pause to reflect on the courage, sacrifice and mateship shown by those who came before us,” Mason said.

“They were ordinary people, farmers, teachers, shopkeepers and students who found themselves in extraordinary circumstances.

“They looked out for one another, shared what little they had, and never gave up, even when things seemed impossible. This is what we call the Anzac Spirit.”

Alyssa said the values so ingrained in the Anzacs “are not only for soldiers, they are for all of us,” and every time the community pauses to remember, it is “a promise to live our lives in a way that honours their memory”.

“Let’s carry the Anzac Spirit with us. Let’s be brave when things are hard. Let’s be kind to those around us, and let’s never give up on making the world a better place, because the best way to honour the Anzacs is not just to remember them today, but to live by the values they showed,” she said.

Young people played an integral role in the

service on Saturday 25 April, with Montrose Primary School students Oliver, Chris and Elise reading the honour roll, while Billanook Primary School’s choir sang Can You Hear the Children Marching?

The Montrose Scouts read a Scout Promise

“to do our best and to help others. On Anzac Day, we are reminded that doing our best means standing up for what is right, caring for those around us, and never giving up, no matter how tough the challenge is”.

Attention was also drawn to the women who served in the Australian Army Nursing Service, paying particular homage to women like Sister Edith Yeaman, whose statue sits as a permanent reminder of all those who served.

“More than 2000 women served in the Australian Army Nursing Service during (World War I), and today, I’d like to pay a special tribute to them, their sense of duty, their resilience in such terrifying conditions, going to far places, Egypt, France, to help those wounded soldiers,” Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence said.

“All these women went above and beyond in the treatment and the care that they provided to the wounded men. There is no doubt that they comforted the soldiers suffering from the most horrendous injuries and saved countless lives, and for that, we are eternally grateful.”

Casey MP Aaron Violi also drew attention to Pearl Corkhill, who served in the Australian Army Nursing Service. She served in Egypt, tending to soldiers injured in Gallipoli and then France, first in Le Havre and then Rouen.

She received the Military Medal for her service.

In a special arrangement, Montrose was greeted by a World

Handmade wreaths

By Mikayla van Loon

The simple act of making a wreath for Anzac Day has become a fully ingrained tradition and learning tool for the students at Lilydale Primary School.

Under the guidance of Grade 5 and 6 teacher Michelle Matthews, crafting wreaths from rosemary in the lead-up to Anzac Day forms an integral part of the education around Anzac history and stories of war.

Anzac stories are embedded in the school’s own history, with several students serving in World War I, as well as a teacher, Stanley Lewis Robinson, who was killed in action in Fleurbaix in 1916.

Ms Matthews said the making of the wreaths adds to a week-long program of learning, where stories of soldiers are told, and a visit to Lilydale RSL lays the foundation of knowledge.

“Making a beautiful wreath out of rosemary… that’s the meaningful part of it. You have to put a lot of effort into it, rather than just go buy something, and when you look at it, it just hasn’t got the feeling,” she said.

“It is just that meaningful part of Anzac Day that our captains go to the dawn service and they lay (the wreath) down. We do our own service tomorrow (Friday 24 April), and we’ll be laying them down there as well.”

The rosemary wreaths are threaded with donated red knitted poppies, combining two important symbols of remembrance.

Students also had input in the design of the

Honour Roll display, which makes it even more significant for them.

Ms Matthews said attending the RSL on Monday 20 April, the students heard real-life accounts of service, told by historian Anthony McAleer, president Bill Dobson, treasurer John O’Donoghue and former British Navy serviceman Chris Newell.

Bugler and former Lilydale Primary School student Wally Dunkley also shared his experience of growing up and learning to play the bugle.

For the whole hour, Ms Matthews said the students “weren’t fidgeting, they were just listening,” and they were so respectful and eager to learn.

Grade 6 captains Will, Savv, Mia and Zoe will attend the dawn service at Lilydale to not only lay the wreath on behalf of the school but also read a poem.

Sharing her passion for history with her students stemmed from Ms Matthews’ own discovery of her family history.

Her parents grew up in the Netherlands, where her mother, at the age of only 13, became a courier for the underground network.

“She had to deliver the newsletters. If she was caught with them, she would have been killed. But what they also did was they hid a little Jewish girl for three years.

“The little girl we saved, her brother, was hidden somewhere else. Her dad somewhere else, her mother, somewhere else. All four survived, and she finally died at the age of 95. She had her family (because of) what my grandfather was able to do.”

A legacy of excellence

Nestled in the heart of Lilydale, AG Automotive has been a cornerstone of the community for over three decades.

Established in the 1980s, this family-run business began humbly in a Wandin home garage, specialising in fitting LPG systems imported from Holland.

The high standards and exceptional quality of their installations quickly earned them a stellar reputation, necessitating a move to a larger facility at 21 Industry Court in Lilydale.

Today, AG Automotive stands as a beacon of excellence in the automotive industry, offering a comprehensive range of services including automotive repairs, Vicroads inspections and certificates, and specialised services for EV/Hybrid vehicles, LPG systems, and automotive air-conditioning systems.

Their commitment to quality is evident in their use of the latest specialist equipment and employment of highly trained and skilled technicians.

One of the most respected names in the LPG industry, AG Autogas has a rich history of innovation and customer satisfaction.

After a brief hiatus, the business was rejuvenated in 2006 when John, the original founder, returned to the LPG industry.

In 2017, John entrusted the leadership to David, a longtime employee, ensuring that the same high standards and dedication to excellence would continue.

AG Automotive is committed to providing great value for money, a tradition that continues with their latest offer: a 10 per cent discount for readers who mention this article. This gesture reflects their ongoing dedication to serving the community and providing top-notch automotive services.

For all your servicing and customising needs, AG Automotive remains your trusted one-stop shop, delivering unparalleled service and expertise.

VETERINARY DAY

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As an accredited Hospital of Excellence and award-winning clinic, our skilled team delivers trusted veterinary services with a strong focus on comfort, communication, and personalised treatment. We prioritise each pet’s wellbeing through attentive care, tailored pain management, and close collaboration with owners to achieve the best possible health outcomes.

Mount Evelyn Veterinary Clinic & Animal Hospital 19 York Rd, Mount Evelyn 9736 3088 Opening hours

Ferntree Gully Veterinary Hospital is more than a clinic — it has been a trusted part of the community for over 40 years. Using fear-free techniques for Dogs and is a Gold Certified Cat Friendly Clinic, with two highly experienced vets (over 20 years each) supported by a mix of skilled and emerging nurses, the team delivers compassionate, friendly care. Together, they keep pets healthy, families reassured, and offer a broad range of services under one roof and support local wildlife.

Dandenong Ranges Veterinary Centre World Vet Day 2026

Dandenong Ranges Vet Centre (DRVC) has been serving the residents of the hills for over 25 years. We understand that problems and emergencies can happen any time which is why we are open Sundays 9am-12pm without a surcharge and clients have access to free vet nurse advice after hours by calling our regular number 9751 2999. Our convenient Platinum Paws Club also has an option for unlimited vet consultations at no charge. The vets and nurses at DRVC are experienced, caring and community minded. DRVC has been a long time supporter of local sporting and community groups including the OFCFNC, Olinda Cricket Club, church groups, Mt Dandenong Pre-School chestnut festival, local schools and the local CFA groups. DRVC has treated over 15000 wildlife cases free of charge since opening in 1999. Thank you to the staff of DRVC (Dr Moss, Dr Mick, Dr Tian, Sheridan, Brittney, Brooke, Mel and Charli) on World Vet Day - you are an essential part of the community.

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ANZAC DAY

Honouring nursing corps

Under a clear autumn sky at Hookey Park, the Mooroolbark community gathered on 25 April to commemorate Anzac Day, placing a poignant focus on the 75th anniversary of the Royal Australian Army Nursing Corps and the evolving role of women in the nation’s defence.

The service, attended by hundreds, served as a powerful reminder that the Anzac legacy is not held by men alone.

Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Richard Higgins and Casey MP Aaron Violi led tributes to the generations of women who have served, from the unmarried nursing sisters of World War I to the recent historic appointment of Lieutenant General Susan Coyle as Chief of the Army.

Cr Higgins detailed the “stringent criteria”

faced by early nurses, who had to be between 25 and 40 years old and were forced to resign the moment they married.

Despite these restrictions, their service was perilous; Cr Higgins noted that over 70 nurses lost their lives due to conflict, disease, or the rigours of captivity.

“This memorial is a tribute to the sacrifices made by Australian women and nurses under the most difficult circumstances,” Cr Higgins said, drawing attention to the new Nurses Memorial Garden at Montrose.

State Member for Croydon, David Hodgett, attending his final service before retirement, highlighted five specific women etched onto the Mooroolbark War Memorial.

Among them were the Ellis sisters, Elsie and Hazel, and Audrey Pape, a local who rose

to become Chief Commander of the Auxiliary Territorial Service during World War II, serving alongside the Princess Royal.

“We have five women on our Mooroolbark War Memorial,” Mr Hodgett said.

“Some we know a lot about, some very little... but we honour all those who stood in harm’s way.”

Mr Violi reflected on how the role of women has “transformed” over 125 years of military history. He noted that while World War I nurses faced artillery fire in the trenches, today’s women lead in the cockpits of fighter jets and command naval ships.

“Today, there is no corner of our Australian Defence Force where women do not lead,” Mr Violi said.

Historian Marion Stott also drew attention to

Chief Nurse Grace Margaret Wilson, who served in World War I both in England and France. Upon her return, she became matron of the Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, before starting her own practice in East Melbourne. She was awarded the Florence Nightingale award in 1929 and returned to serve in World War II, until her health forced her to come home to Australia.

Yarra Hills Secondary College captains Bawi and Ethan read the Anzac Requiem, recalling all those who fought, from Gallipoli and France, to Malaya and Borneo, and honoured the “sisters of our fighting men.”

As the notes of the

that the stories of these

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and

be

Poppies arrive in Lilydale

Volunteers were at it again, preparing Lilydale’s township for Anzac Day in what has become an annual tradition.

The display of poppies was placed along Main Street by the dedicated members of the Lilydale Township Action Group (LTAG).

The hundreds of red hand-knit poppies

emulated the scene of Flanders Fields, cascading down the nature strip from the Olinda Creek bridge toward the station.

The rest of the display on the bridge itself consisted of a horse, a nurse, four soldiers and a large banner with the words “Lest we Forget”. The poppies were mounted on cut-out display

boards.

Instigator and creator of the poppy display, Sharon Chuck, and a group of her knitting friends created the thousands of hand-knit poppies over several years. Most of the wool was donated by the ladies.

The display represented the sacrifices and

bravery of Lilydale’s and the broader community’s service veterans. LTAG, co-ordinated by Helen and Ian Darvell, and ably assisted by a large group of local volunteers, arranged the display on and near the bridge over the Olinda Creek in Main Street Lilydale.

The Female of the Species is here

By Claudia Mather and Mikayla van Loon

The Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company is tackling the complexities of feminism, fame, and firearms in its latest production, The Female of the Species.

At the helm is director Fiona Carter, making her directorial debut with the company by bringing Joanna Murray-Smith’s biting, fictionalised satire to the local stage.

“I’m very grateful to the company for entrusting me with this gem of a show,” Ms Carter said.

“I knew this play had many, many layers, so we began rehearsals early in February. Even now, we’re still finding out things about these characters.”

While the play is a work of fiction, it draws its DNA from a chilling real-life event: the 2000 home invasion and kidnapping of feminist icon Germaine Greer in Essex, England.

However, Ms Carter and her lead actor, Angela Glennie, are quick to note that the play is a fictionalised exploration of that premise, designed to spark conversation as much as comedy.

Ms Glennie, a theatre veteran of 30 years and a close friend of Ms Carter, plays Margot Mason, a character inspired by the likes of Greer.

“Once I read the play and laughed out loud at the script, which for me is rare, I knew I wanted to be a part of the fun,” she said.

In a distinct artistic pivot, Ms Carter has shifted the play’s setting from its original location to Daylesford, allowing the cast to utilise Australian voices.

“There are many terrific American and English plays, but I really enjoy our local stories,” Ms Carter said.

Central to the production is the character of Margot, a role Ms Carter said required a “very special actor” capable of balancing command with a light comic touch.

The director praised lead actress Angela Glennie for her “bold and fearless” portrayal, noting that Ms Glennie’s willingness to be a “good sport” during the play’s more awkward, ungainly physical moments has been key to the show’s success.

The production has not been without its lo-

gistical hurdles. With complex dialogue and the inclusion of live gunshots, the small cast of six had to work with precision.

“The dialogue can be tricky to learn,” Ms Glennie admitted. “And timing those gunshots to fire without fail was a tad challenging.”

The production benefits from an intimate cast of six, which Ms Carter said allowed for a “safe, creative environment” and deep discussions regarding character interactions.

The production isn’t just a feat of acting; it’s a masterclass in stagecraft. Ms Carter highlighted the “extraordinary” work of Lilydale’s volunteer set builders and prop makers, whose specialty stage tricks have elicited literal shrieks and jumps from the audience.

The production doesn’t shy away from the heavy lifting of feminist critique.

Ms Glennie said that the play cleverly navigates the “seven feminine archetypes” , including

Repair Cafe is three

By Claudia Mather and Mikayla van Loon

In hopes of preventing people from throwing awaydamagedandbrokenitems,theLillydale LakeRepairCafehasbeensavingthecommunity’s belongings from ending up in landfill, while also creating a welcoming place for people to come and connect.

The initiative invites people to bring their broken items, such as radios, lamps, sewing repairs, vacuum cleaners and now knife and scissor sharpening to be repaired by the generous volunteers of the cafe.

On Sunday 3 May, the cafe turns three, and to celebrate this milestone, they are offering a free sausage sizzle and repairs at their newer Lilydale location in the community room by the lake.

The cafe’s birthday celebration will run from 10.30am to 11.45am, which will then be followed by the first-ever AGM. This will include words from guest speaker, Luca, from the Maker’s Lab who the cafe has recently partnered.

Cafe founder, Rowan Barr, hopes those who come “celebrate the work of the volunteers who are giving their time and skills and knowledge, and tools as well”

The Repair Cafe initially opened in Chirnside Park in 2023 and has since been an ever-evolving project for the community to take part in.

“We have been really well received at the Community Room, and we’re definitely busier than before,” Rowan said.

What started as a small group of volunteers has grown into a team of up to 10 to 15 volunteers, all with different repairing skills and talents.

Rowan highlights that, “Yes, we do fix things, but we’re also a community meeting space”

She said it’s important for people to have a place to connect “in this difficult time of social isolation and cost of living.”

Rowan hopes that with the cafe being in a public space, it encourages more people to drop in and explore the scene, “be it for a walk or to exercise, a barbecue or bike ride, they might think, well, I’ll just grab that broken item and pop in there”

One budding young repairer, Alex, recently joined the team of volunteers, and at just 12 years old, he hopes to become the cafe’s bike repairer.

the Mother, the Huntress, and the Queen, often exploring them in reverse to create comedic friction.

“It’s delightful when the audience connects to a trait with such passion that they respond with spontaneous applause,” she said.

Despite the farce and the frights, the play carries a deeper message. Ms Carter believes the script highlights the societal disparities that feminism seeks to question, such as the lack of older female newsreaders compared to their male counterparts.

“The show is a timely reminder of the choices and decisions that can be made when one is desperately unhappy,” Ms Carter said.

“But it also shows the positive results when people work at communicating and listening. There is always more than one solution.”

The Female of the Species is showing until 9 May.

“I said, well, let’s just go take it slowly, to his mum,” Rowan laughs, “and his mum has become our official tea lady! So now we have someone making tea and coffee for everyone.”

Although this might seem like a minor detail to some, it means a lot to Rowan and the other volunteers, giving them space to focus on repairs and connect with the cafe’s visitors.

“It’sgreatthecommunity,atallagegroups, do actually take an interest in repairing things for people and learning how to repair.”

Having tea and coffee on hand for the volunteers and visitors of the cafe is another fundamental way for people to connect, which is what the Lillydale Lake Repair Cafe is about at its core.

Whether popping in to have an item repaired or to sit and chat with the volunteers while they work, the repair cafe opens its doors once every month.

Shades of meaning...

By Maria Millers

The falling leaves drift by the window

The autumn leaves of red and gold

I see your lips, the summer kisses

The sun-burned hands I used to hold Autumn, immortalised by English Romantic poet John Keats as the “season of mists and mellow fruitfulness,” has finally arrived with days that start out with misty mornings then unfold into gently sunny days.

But glorious as the days are, the sun now sets earlier and there’s a definite chill descending in the afternoons, a reminder that winter is just around the corner.

Autumn in Australia (March to May) has a different feel to the classic Northern Hemisphere where autumn transforms whole landscapes to seemingly on fire with colour.

The only one temperate native tree – the beech, Fagus (nothofagus gunni) found in Tasmania puts on a stunning autumn display from early golden yellow to burnt orange and finally in late autumn to red and copper brown before shedding all its leaves in anticipation of a cold Tasmanian winter.

In Australia other spectacular displays are confined to cooler areas in the country where deciduous trees planted in parks and older suburbs by Europeans are framed by the sombre green of our native eucalypts.

Nor does the season tug at the heart of travelling Australians as it does for Americans who, when away, are often heard to express a wish to be home in time for The Fall.

Culturally and emotionally, autumn in Australia tends to feel calmer and more relaxed than summer.

Summer is intense—heat, beach, bushfire risk, and long holidays—so autumn is often welcomed as a relief after the summer break, and outdoor activities become more comfortable again.

It’s the football season and it’s a time when

WOORILLA WORDS

people settle back into routines after the summer break.

It’s often referred to as liminal because it sits in an in-between state, neither fully alive like summer nor fully dormant like winter.

Autumn is a transition a gradual crossing from growth to rest.

For Robert Frost in After Apple Picking it’s a feeling of exhaustion after working his apple orchard, but not hopelessness just that since the work has finished he can now rest:

For I have had too much

Of apple-picking: I am overtired…

But not everybody appreciates this liminal time.

Rainer Maria Rilke’s Autumn Day captures those isolating feelings some have when the season changes:

Whoever has no house now, will not build one anymore.

Whoever is alone now, will long remain so…

In mythology, literature and art, autumn is frequently used to represent later stages of life or a period of introspection.

In Japanese tradition, autumn is less about a single myth and more about aesthetic and spiritual awareness, influenced by ideas like “mono no aware”—an appreciation of the beauty in things that don’t last.

Falling leaves and fading light aren’t tragic; they’re meaningful because they’re temporary.

The Cherry Blossoms are stunningly beautiful, but they don’t last.

This should not be sadness but a reflective appreciation of life’s fleeting moments.

Matsuo Bash?’s Autumn haiku turns autumn into something quiet and peaceful rather than sad.

Autumn moonlight— a worm digs silently into the chestnut.

There’s change happening, but it’s gentle, almost tender.

In Celtic traditions autumn marks the end of the harvest and the start of the darker half of the year. It was believed that during this time, the boundary between the living and the dead grew thin. Autumn here isn’t just about nature changing, it’s a liminal, almost mystical period when unseen worlds feel closer.

Instead of one universal autumn story Indigenous Australians have many local stories about seasonal transition, each tied to a specific place and people.

The Wurundjeri people (near Melbourne) describe seasons based on plant flowering and animal behaviour rather than fixed dates.

Emotionally, people tend to view autumn in mixed ways.

Some experience it as cosey and comforting— think warm drinks, layered clothing, and indoor gatherings. Others associate it with melancholy, since the fading light and cooling weather can feel like an ending.

Mary Oliver in October makes quiet seasonal shifts feel reassuring rather than bleak. Even as things fade, she keeps returning to attention, gratitude, and small moments of beauty.

Still, what I want in my life is to be willing to be dazzled

Indeed it is uplifting to watch the delight

young children show running through piles of ankle -deep vibrantly coloured crunchy leaves.

Traditionally autumn is linked with harvest and gratitude. Communities would hold harvest festivals and churches had services in gratitude

In the past when we lived closer to our food sources it was also a time of coping with the tyranny of the backyard harvest as some fruits and vegetables came into their most flavoursome and plentiful in autumn. It’s the season for figs, apples, pears, grapes, and the wonderful quinces, persimmons, chestnuts and the many vegetables that thrive in cooler weather.

And it was the time for bottling, jamming and freezing, turning ripened fresh produce for future winter meals. Today fewer and fewer of us have the time or indeed the skills and supermarkets take advantage of this.

But there are some people who develop Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Symptoms can include low mood, low energy, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep, and loss of interest in things you normally enjoy. Even people without full SAD can feel a milder autumn slump.

One big factor is reduced daylight. As days get shorter your body gets less exposure to sunlight. That affects your internal clock (circadian rhythm) and can lower levels of mood-regulating chemicals like serotonin. It can also increase melatonin, which makes you feel more tired and sluggish.

Autumn is powerful because it holds a paradox: it is the season of endings that is also full of beauty. It also invites inwardness, reflection and appreciation of home comforts. The image of falling leaves may also bring memories of lost loves and the passage of time

But this year there are challenges for many as the price of fuel and food and other expenses keeps rising Meanwhile elsewhere we see cities burn, innocent civilians flee or die and the crises intensifying. The tension becomes: how can one sit in calm seasonal beauty while others live through catastrophe?

Two trains, two locations

By Becki Vandenboom

We are very proud of our station building at the Upper Yarra Museum, besides being a beautifully restored example of railway days past, it has a unique history.

To the best of our knowledge our station building is the only one in Australia to have witnessed two different Royal trains in two separate locations.

Constructed at Lilydale in 1888, our station building served travelers in that location for 16 years until a bigger, more modern building was required. According to the Reporter (Box Hill) newspaper 22 January 1915 “the railway department does not allow any of the old station buildings…to go to waste” and in line with this policy the station building was transferred to its current location in Yarra Junction.

In 1901 the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York (future King George V and Queen Mary) visited Melbourne to celebrate the opening of Parliament. After days of official duties, the royal couple had earned a personal day.

While the Duke headed off towards Sale for a day of hunting, the Duchess chose to visit the Yarra Valley for a picnic.

The 15th of May 2026 marks 125 years since our station building played host to the Duchess’s Royal Train while still located at Lilydale.

“In honour of the duchess’s visit…townspeople decorated the station with greenery, flags, etc” reported the Argus on 16 May 1901.

The Royal train stopped for a few minutes in Lilydale and the duchess was heartily cheered by the gathered crowd when she “appeared on the

CARTOON

platform” . She was presented with a bouquet of flowers by a Lilydale Shire councilor, before her train continued its journey toward Healesville.

Over fifty years later, our station building witnessed a second Royal train and the associated public celebration, this time in its Yarra Junction location. During their 1954 visit to Victoria, Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh were granted a rest day in Warburton and spent two nights at the O’Shannassy Lodge.

According to the Royal Tour Itinerary the Royal Train was due to pass through Yarra Junction

about 7pm on 6 March.

The Sun News Pictorial reports that over 200,000 people lined tracks and slowed the train from Melbourne to Warburton, 1500 of those at Launching Place and Yarra Junction.

Eventually rail passenger travel gave way to the roads and in August 1965 one last commemorative train steamed its way from Flinders Street station carrying over 500 people.

With the decline of railway traffic our station building fell into disrepair.

However, in 1969, the recently established

Upper Yarra Valley Historical Society was able to secure a lease for the building with the intention of establishing a museum to preserve significant Upper Yarra History.

Over the years UYVHS has gathered the Upper Yarra collection, which includes restored buildings, artifacts, trades and archives.

Interested in Upper Yarra stories like this one? Have one of your own to share?

Drop by the museum on Wednesdays and Sundays 10-4 to visit the station building that witnessed two royal trains in two different locations.

Exit 8 review: Liminal horror

Exit 8 is a remarkable surreal Japanese psychological horror film based on a 2023 video game.

A hapless young man (Kazunari Ninomiya) finds himself trapped in an endlessly-repeating subway passageway, and must keep track of any changes (“anomalies”) in each loop if he hopes to escape.

Liminal art, which is increasingly popular online, conjures uncanny feelings of nostalgia and foreboding from transient spaces such as malls, waiting rooms, lobbies and pools, and liminal horror brings a sense of permanence and entrapment to such places. Exit 8 is an outstanding cinematic expression of liminal horror, and like Iron Lung, it’s one of the best video game movies ever made.

Exit 8 is endlessly eerie and intriguing. The monotony of the staging is a large part of the despair and claustrophobia the film invokes, and Exit 8 invigorates its single setting with disturbing anomalies, flashbacks that explore the plights of other people stuck in the tunnel, and highly ambitious cinematography. The opening is shot in first-person (through the main character’s eyes),

Can the law help promote reading?

In response to this reviewer’s 7 April article, Reading: Different strategies work for different people, a local reader pointed to the Regulations on the Promotion of Nationwide Reading recently coming into effect in China.

Can the law really help promote reading?

China, currently the second-largest consumer market, seems determined to make it work.

As the Chinese government designated the fourth week of April as the annual National Reading Week, its official news agency announced: “China has issued its first-ever administrative regulation dedicated to nationwide reading, which outlines measures to boost reading promotions, improve the quality of reading services, and strengthen support systems, providing a solid legal basis for building a society that loves reading.”

Statistics show that, by the end of 2025, there were 3253 public libraries across China offering free access to readers.

The country’s national comprehensive read-

and the rest of the film is full of impressive long takes. Exit 8 also uses a cool distorted two-tone leitmotif to signal when the strangeness kicks in. The main character (known only as “The Lost Man”) starts the film frantic and close to collapse, but as he figures out and pushes through the loop, helping a lost boy (Naru Asanuma) sees him grow the confidence to face some life-changing news. Yamato Kochi delivers a creepy, tragic, tightlycontrolled performance as The Walking Man.

A masterwork of tone, tension and camerawork, Exit 8 is playing in select Victorian cinemas. This also has me even more eager for Backrooms, a film based on the iconic liminal online horror story of the same name, which comes out next month.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

Reality is, extracurricular reading and/or reading for pleasure remains rare.

PASSION FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

ing rate – measuring the speed at which a person reads with at least 70-80 per cent comprehension – had risen from 76.3 per cent in 2012 to 82.1 per cent in 2024.

(Note: The phrase “national comprehensive reading rate” is mainly used in China and covers books, newspapers and digital content. As a comparison, 75 per cent of the Australian population are considered “general readers” who read at least one book per year in any format.)

Meanwhile, a national reading survey revealed that 82.3 per cent of Chinese adults engaged in reading in 2025, with the combined reading volume in digital and print reaching the average of 8.39 books per person.

Data show that 80.8 per cent of Chinese adults now read digitally, whether it is through e-books, online literature or audiobooks.

By the end of 2025, China’s digital reading user base had reached 689 million.

Less than half of adults (45.9 per cent) still prefer print books.

The aforementioned national reading survey further revealed that, among those Chinese aged 18 and younger, 86.7 per cent read books, while 75.9 per cent engaged in digital reading.

According to an “ideological and political education” course presentation released early this month, although the average Chinese teenager reads 36.30 minutes per day or 11.65 books per year, these are mainly for schoolwork and tests/exams.

As a countermeasure, China’s Regulations on the Promotion of Nationwide Reading aims to “promote nationwide reading, advance the building of a society of avid readers, enhance the ideological, moral, scientific and cultural qualities of the entire nation, raise the level of civility across society, and promote the building of a leading socialist cultural power”.

The law demands the establishment of reading facilities across the country, mandates schools at all levels to build reading into the curriculum, and requires setup of accessible formats for elderly readers and those with disabilities.

Overall, China’s push for a “society of readers” and “culturally strong nation” is meant to direct its citizens away from video and the mobile screen and back to the printed page.

Let’s hope it will work.

ARCHITECTURAL LIVING WITH ELEVATED VIEWS

ARCHITECTURAL LIVING WITH ELEVATED VIEWS ON HALF AN ACRE (APPROX.)

POSITIONED in a tightly held pocket just moments from Emerald Village, this architecturally designed residence delivers space, light, and flexibility on a beautifully usable half-acre (approx).

From the moment you step inside, the scale is immediately apparent. Soaring ceilings and expansive glazing draw natural light deep into the home, while polished timber floors and a striking timber staircase introduce warmth and texture. The main living domain is open, inviting, and well-proportioned, anchored by a gas log fire and seamlessly connecting through to the outdoor patio-creating a natural extension for entertaining and everyday living.

The kitchen is centrally positioned and highly functional, complete with quality stainless steel appliances, glass splashbacks, and a generous walk-in pantry-effortlessly servicing both the dining and living zones.

Accommodation is intelligently zoned across two levels. Upstairs, the main suite enjoys a private, elevated position with walk-

in robe and ensuite, complemented by a generous retreat and adjoining study nook-an ideal space to work or unwind. From this level, the deck provides a private vantage point to relax and take in leafy surrounds and distant views towards Western Port Bay and Cardinia Dam.

Downstairs, the floorplan offers exceptional flexibility. A bedroom with its own ensuite and walk-in robe is positioned separately-perfect for guests or multi-generational living-while two additional bedrooms are serviced by a central bathroom.

Outdoors, the fully fenced grounds are both usable and private, with established gardens, a vegetable patch, and a separate bungalow offering excellent versatility as a studio, workspace, or additional accommodation.

A double garage with workshop space and sealed driveway completes the offering.

A home that balances architectural interest with everyday functionality, in one of Emerald’s most tightly held locations. ●

SPACIOUS FAMILY LIVING IN A PEACEFUL GEMBROOK SETTING  WALK TO TOWN

POSITIONED in a quiet Gembrook location just a short stroll to the main street, local schools and public transport, this welldesigned four-bedroom home offers multiple living zones and easy indoor-outdoor living on a substantial 1,117sqm.

An undercover entry welcomes you inside where floating floors flow through the main living areas. At the front of the home, the master bedroom enjoys a private position and includes a walk-in robe and ensuite, while a second bedroom nearby offers flexibility as a nursery, guest room or ideal home office.

The heart of the home is the open-plan kitchen, living and dining area with the kitchen featuring a gas stovetop, wall oven, dishwasher, large island bench, walk-in pantry and plenty of storage. Internal garage access positioned beside the walk-in pantry adds everyday convenience.

The adjoining lounge is filled with natural light and includes a split system for additional comfort, while gas ducted heating and evaporative cooling throughout the home ensure year-round climate control. Sliding doors open from the living area to a generous undercover entertaining zone, providing the perfect space to host family and friends while overlooking the backyard.

Further down the hallway are two additional bedrooms, each with built-in robes, serviced by the central family bathroom with separate toilet. A spacious rumpus room adds valuable extra living space and enjoys direct access to the outdoor entertaining area, making it an ideal retreat for teenagers, guests or a games room.

Outside, the fully fenced rear yard offers plenty of space for children and pets to play, along with a garden shed for additional storage. A double garage completes this appealing family property, delivering comfort, functionality and a fantastic location within walking distance to everything Gembrook has to offer.

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. ●

PEACEFUL HILLS LIVING ON 3,985SQM.

SET in a quiet Cockatoo setting on a fully fenced 3,985sqm, this inviting three-bedroom home combines character with a relaxed Hills setting.

An undercover front verandah welcomes you on arrival, with a handy storage room at one end and a front deck—an ideal spot to sit with a morning coffee and enjoy the peaceful surrounds.

Inside, the home opens to a light-filled open plan kitchen, living and dining area where polished timber flooring and vaulted ceilings create an immediate sense of openness. A skylight enhances the natural light, while a woodfire, ceiling fan and split system keep the space comfortable year-round.

The kitchen is well designed for everyday living, featuring timber benchtops, a walk-in pantry, dishwasher, gas stovetop and generous bench space.

The master bedroom is positioned beside the family bathroom with separate toilet for convenience. Upstairs, two carpeted bedrooms enjoy large windows that capture plenty of natural light, with one also including a split system.

Outside, the property continues to deliver with a 6m x 7m shed with concrete floor, an 8m x 6m carport, garden shed and an undercover entertaining area complete with an open fireplace—ideal for relaxed gatherings with family and friends.

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. ●

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

EasyLivingintheHeartofEmerald.

Perfectlypositionedonalow-maintenance246sqm,thiswell-designeddouble-storeyhome offersmoderncomfort&everydayconveniencejustashortstrollfromEmerald’sschools,kinder, supermarket&vibrantmainstreet.Filledwithnaturallight,theopen-plankitchen,living&diningarea formstheheartofthehome.Thekitchenfeaturesstonebenchtops,breakfastbar,gasstovetop, dishwasher&excellentstorage,whiletheadjoininglounge&diningareaincludesasplitsystem, gasductedheating&ceilingfanforyear-roundcomfort.Slidingdoorsopentothereargarden. Themasterbedroomwithwalk-inrobe&ensuiteisprivatelypositionedatthefront.Upstairsoffers twofurtherbedroomswithbuilt-inrobes,acentralbathroom&secondlivingarea.Outside,thefully fencedyardincludesagardenshed,watertank&5kWsolarsystem.

EasyFamilyLivingwithPlentyofRoomtoMove. Seton1052sqminbeautifulGembrook,thisdouble-storeybrickhomeoffersflexiblefamilylivingwith spacetorelaxinside&out.Acirculardrivewaywelcomesyoutotheproperty,wherethethoughtfully designedlayoutunfoldsacrosstwolevels.Upstairs,thekitchen/diningareaformsthehubofthe home,featuringawalloven,gasstovetop,dishwasher&excellentstorage.Thediningspaceopens toabalcony,whiletheadjoiningloungeisfilledwithnaturallight,asplitsystem&slidingdoorstothe undercoverentertainingarea.Themasterbedroomisalsopositionedonthislevel,completewitha walk-inrobe&ensuite.Downstairs,threecarpetedbedroomsareservicedbyacentralbathroom withseparatetoilet,asecondlivingareawithsplitsystem&accesstothedoubletandemcarport. Outside,adeckedentertainingarea,gardenshed&5000Lwatertankcompletetheproperty.

189SwalesRoadMacclesfield$1,750,000-$1,900,000

Spanning40gentlyundulatingacres,thissun-filledruralholdingdeliversspace,watersecurity& seriouspotential.Awindingcreek,3dams&avaluable2-megalitrewaterlicenceprovidearocksolidfoundationforlifestyleliving,livestockorfuturevision.Elevatedpointsacrossthelandcapture sweeping360-degreeviews,creatingthosepostcardmomentswherethecountrysiderollsawayin everydirection.Atthecentresitsaneat&original2-bedroomhome,comfortablenow&readyfor renovation,extensionorreinventionovertime.Practicalinfrastructureincludesamachineryshed, garage&establishedcattlerace&yards,makingthepropertyimmediatelyusableforfarmingor hobbystock.Withsunnypaddocks,naturalwatersources&multipleaccesspoints,everythingisin placeforeasyruralliving.

IMPRESSIVE SCALE  FLEXIBLE LIVING AND LOCATION

IMPRESSIVE in scale, setting, and versatility, this solid 1960s residence is positioned on a beautifully flat allotment of approximately 3,300m², just minutes from Gembrook Township. Surrounded by quality homes and enjoying filtered paddock views, it offers a rare combination of usable land, privacy, and convenience in a tightly held pocket.

Inside, the home is warm, functional, and filled with natural light. A spacious lounge with a feature wood fire anchors the living zone, complemented by timber floors throughout. The traditional wood-fired baker’s oven adds a distinctive touch-perfect for cooking pizzas while creating a warm, ambient atmosphere to enjoy from the comfort of the lounge. The updated kitchen is well-appointed with excellent storage, a Euromaid cooker, dishwasher, and connects seamlessly to the adjoining meals area.

Accommodation comprises three bedrooms with peaceful garden outlooks, plus a dedicated study. The layout is highly practical, with a main bathroom, separate shower room, and separate WC-well suited to family living. The bathroom is enhanced by a rain-sensored skylight, allowing natural light to filter in while automatically closing during wet weather.

Double-glazed, timber-framed windows enhance comfort throughout, while downlights with dimmers feature across the bedrooms and living areas, maintaining a consistent ambience. Ceiling fans are also installed throughout, complemented by gas ducted heating and a split system for year-round climate control.

Additional features include UV water filtration, tank water servicing the home and gardens.

A standout feature is the converted garage, currently operating as a clinic with its own private entry and waiting area. This space offers exceptional flexibility-ideal for a home business, consulting rooms, studio, or potential dual accommodation (STCA).

Outdoors, the infrastructure is substantial.

A large shed with wood heater and mezzanine storage, along with abundant offstreet parking, caters to trades, creatives, or those needing space to operate. The flat land is highly usable, with fenced areas, a chicken coop with a solar-operated automatic door, a sheep paddock, and established fruit trees including cherry and fig.

With mains water and gas connected, and scope to live, work, and create, this is a property that delivers genuine lifestyle flexibility.

A compelling opportunity for families, home-based professionals, or those seeking a semi-rural setting without compromise. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

4

HOME FOCUS

LIFESTYLE EXCELLENCE ON 2.6 ACRES

SET across approximately 2.6 acres of beautifully maintained grounds, this expansive family residence delivers the ultimate lifestyle retreat, combining space, privacy and outstanding entertaining features in a tranquil Selby setting.

From the sweeping driveway arrival, the home makes an immediate impression. Framed by established trees and lush lawns, the property offers a serene, almost park like atmosphere while still providing all the functionality a growing family could need.

Inside, the thoughtfully designed floorplan showcases multiple living zones, including a formal lounge, dining area, and a spacious open plan family and meals zone anchored by a well-appointed kitchen. A separate rumpus room at the rear adds further flexibility, perfect for a games room, theatre or teenage retreat, while a dedicated home office caters effortlessly to remote work.

Accommodation is well zoned for privacy, with the main bedroom positioned at the front, complete with walk in robe and ensuite. Additional bedrooms, all with built in storage, are serviced by a central bathroom and separate powder room, while a second ensuite (unfinished) at the rear creates an ideal guest or multi-generational living option.

Step outside and the lifestyle truly comes to life. A vast paved entertaining area flows seamlessly from the home, overlooking a stunning inground pool, perfect for summer gatherings and relaxed weekends with family and friends. The expansive grounds provide endless space for kids and pets to roam, while a private basketball court adds another layer of enjoyment for all ages.

Car enthusiasts, tradies or those requiring serious storage will appreciate the substantial garage/workshop, complemented by ample off-street parking.

Key features:

Approx. 2.6 acres of private, usable land

Multiple living zones including lounge, dining, family and rumpus

• Well-appointed kitchen with adjoining meals area

• Four bedrooms plus dedicated home office

Two ensuites; one unfinished , central bathroom and powder room

Expansive outdoor entertaining area with in-ground pool

• Private basketball court

• Huge 8 car garage/workshop with extensive parking options

Beautiful established gardens and sweeping lawns

Offering a rare combination of lifestyle, scale and versatility, this is a standout acreage opportunity in one of Selby’s most peaceful and picturesque pockets. ●

PUZZLES

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

ACROSS

1 Musically short, clipped and separate (8)

5 New York City neighbourhood (6)

10 Clear (5)

11 Cattle (9)

12 Minister (6)

13 Town in France with a shrine to St Bernadette (7)

14 Military unit (8)

15 Ill-gotten (6)

18 Constabulary (6)

20 Fauna (8)

21 Central Italian region (7)

24 Steering device (6)

27 First meal (9)

28 Established truth (5)

29 Widespread dominion (6)

30 Quaint houses (8)

DOWN

1 Senior barrister (coll) (4)

2 Divine being of high rank (9)

3 Military student (5)

4 Open-minded (8)

6 Attack (7)

7 Father of Beau and Jeff Bridges (5)

8 Be logical or comprehensible (4,5)

9 Wickedness (4)

14 Respectable (9)

16 Hanging around (9)

17 The text of an opera (8)

19 Savoury biscuit (7)

22 Woolly mammal (5)

23 Chinese currency (4)

25 Preliminary drawing (5)

26 Flightless birds (4)

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

3

LETTERS

Kalorama athlete wins

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

A Kalorama student has returned from the national stage with an impressive performance after competing at the 2026 Coles Australian Little Athletics Championships (ALAC) in Brisbane earlier this month.

11-year-old Micah Friend, a Kalorama resident and Grade 6 student and school captain at Mount Dandenong Primary School, represented Victoria at the championships held on April 13 to 14, following selection after success at the State Championships in Knox in March.

“I’m really happy with what I was able to achieve at ALAC in Brisbane,” Micah said.

The event has been running since 1973, is the annual Little Athletics National Championships, which brings hundreds of young athletes from across Australia together to compete in a range of track and field events.

Athletes take part in opening and closing ceremonies, team marches and traditional state chants, while also competing for individual honours and team points.

Micah is a member of the Yarra Ranges Little Athletics Club at Morrison Reserve in Mount Evelyn - he competed in six events in the Boys Under 12 Multiclass category and delivered an outstanding performance.

He recorded three gold medals in the 400 metres, long jump and javelin, and three silver medals in the 100 metres, 200 metres and 800 metres.

He also achieved personal bests in five of his six events and set three championship meet records.

“To get five personal bests (PB) out of six events was a surprise but definitely the best part of it for me,” Micah said.

“I was hoping to get at least one ‘PB’ in Brisbane but to get one in nearly all my events was huge for me. I have been working a lot on my sprint events in training, so I was really happy to do my fastest times in competition.”

Micah has cerebral palsy and is a nationally classified T/F35 para athlete, he trains several times a week across the Yarra Ranges, including local parks and hills in Kalorama, Mount Dandenong and Olinda, the Morrison Reserve athletics track, and the quarry steps in Ferntree Gully - he also completes daily physiotherapy sessions at home.

“I work really hard on fitness, running and athletics. I like challenging myself to see what improvements I can make,” the 11-year-old said.

“I owe lots of thanks to my physiotherapist, Tanja, who sets my gym program and helps me build up my strength, speed and endurance so that I can compete but also just do everyday stuff

better.”

Micah said representing Victoria was a highlight of the experience.

“I am always really proud to represent Victoria. It was great to meet some kids from other states and singing the team chant was so much fun,” he said.

“It was really warm and sunny the whole time so I really didn’t mind giving up some of my school holidays and going up there with my family. It was a great trip.”

He said one of his standout moments came in the 400 metres.

“Normally the 800m is my best event, but in my 400m at ALAC I finished well and actually smashed my PB. That was a big surprise and something that I was really happy about,” he said.

Micah said he is now looking forward to the winter cross country season.

“I am looking forward to the winter cross country season that is about to start,” he said.

He also encouraged other children to get involved in sport.

“If you’re interested in athletics or any other sports then find a local club or team and get involved,” Micah said.

“Just going for the first time can be the hardest part but really it’s heaps of fun. You don’t have to already be great at sports just to start and you don’t know what you can do until you try. If you get good coaching and just keep trying, then

Wins despite less hoops

By John Thomson

This week, the Lilydale division one croquet team hosted the Kew Croquet Club.

Craig McCracken and Mick Crawley were playing for Lilydale this week.

The morning started with a heavy dew on the court, which slowed the balls down, but as the sun started to warm up, the court dried out, making the play a lot faster, something the players had to adapt to.

The first game of the day was the doubles. The Lilydale team of Craig McCracken and Mick Crawley had the first couple of hoops before the Kew team registered their first. Lilydale continued to play well and were nullifying all of the opposition’s attacking play and went on to win 7 hoops to Kew 4 hoops.

Craig McCracken played in the first singles game. This game was very similar to the doubles game, where Craig was able to keep his opponent away from the hoops and still able to take his own chances to run the hoops and win the game 7 hoops to Kew 4 hoops.

Mick Crawley played in the next singles game. Again, this was a carbon copy of the previous two games, with Lilydale keeping Kew away from the hoops and Lilydale able to run their hoops and control the game, obviously a team plan going into the game. Lilydale 7 hoops to Kew 4 hoops.

At the lunch break, the scores were Lilydale 3 games 21 hoops to Kew 0 games 12 hoops. With two games to play, Lilydale had won the day, but could they make it a clean sweep, or was Kew going to win the last two games?

Craig McCracken played in the first singles after lunch. I am not sure what happened at lunch, but this game was a complete reversal of form

with the Kew player dominating the play and running some nice long hoops to take out the win 7 hoops to Lilydale 1 hoop.

Mick Crawley played in the last game. Again, the Kew player dominated the game right from the start and hardly gave Mick a look in and went on to win 7 hoops to Lilydale 2 hoops.

The final scores for the day Lilydale 3 games 24 hoops to Kew 2 games 26 hoops. It is not often that the losing side wins more hoops than the winning side.

The division two team had a bye this week.

This week, the Lilydale handicap team travelled to the Monash Croquet Club.

The Lilydale team consisted of Kerri McCracken, Liz Stewart, Mick Crawley and Mark Edgell. Kerri McCracken played in the first singles game. Kerri was starting with a one hoop disadvantage. The Monash player started well, building an early lead that Lilydale could not bridge and went on to win 7 hoops to Lilydale 3 hoops.

Liz Stewart and Mick Crawley played in the first doubles. Liz and Mick were starting with a one-hoop disadvantage. Lilydale ran the first hoop to make up their disadvantage and from then on it was just like a level play game. Liz and Mick teamed together well and went on to win 7 hoops to Monash 4 hoops.

Mark Edgell played in the next singles game. Neither player had any advantage in this game. This game was very close as you would expect from two evenly matched opponents, and after the twelfth hoop, the scores were six hoops each, with the thirteenth to be played to decide the winner. Mark was first to the hoop and was able to set up well, and from there go on and win 7 hoops to Monash 6 hoops.

Liz Stewart and Kerri McCracken played in

you’ll just keep getting better.”

Micah’s father, Haydn Friend, said balancing training, physio and school has been part of his son’s routine while competing at a national level.

“Micah loves being busy,” Mr Friend said.

“As well as athletics, he also does swimming, drama classes and wheelchair basketball. He does love a challenge, trying new things and working hard to find out what he is capable of.”

“He now has confidence to have a crack at anything and has learnt the value of persistence and resilience if things don’t initially come easily. As parents, we’re grateful to be able to give him opportunities for him to grow, get stronger and improve. It’s really satisfying to see him achieving and also learning some really useful life lessons along the way.”

Mr Friend said Micah’s journey reflects his approach to sport and life.

“Para-athletes and especially kids with physical disabilities don’t do athletics or other sports because it is easy for them. They embrace the challenge, overcome obstacles and test their own limits in exactly the same way that they try and navigate through everyday life,” he said.

“Any success in competing that Micah has, however he defines it, acts as motivation for him to keep trying harder in the future. More than that though, it also provides an opportunity for other people to see and recognise his commitment and the effort that he makes every day.”

the next doubles game. Neither team had any advantage in this game. Monash got off to a flying start and had a lead of 5 hoops to Lilydale’s one hoop, then Lilydale started to turn things around and get back into the game, and after the twelfth hoop, Lilydale had evened the score at six hoops each, with the thirteenth to be played. This was a very hard-fought hoop with both teams battling for position. In the end, Lilydale ran the hoop to win the game 7 hoops to Monash 6 hoops. A huge come-from-behind win by Lilydale in a game that went for nearly two hours.

At the lunch break, the scores were Lilydale 3 games 24 hoops to Monash 1 game 23 hoops. With two games to play, either team could still win the day.

Kerri McCracken played in the last singles game. Kerri was starting with a one-hoop disad-

vantage. Kerri started well and had soon made up her one hoop disadvantage, and from there she was able to control the game, playing some very nice croquet to go on to win 7 hoops to Monash 3 hoops. The last game was a doubles, and Mark Edgell and Mick Crawley played in this game. Lilydale were starting with a one-hoop disadvantage. Monash came out in this game dominating right from the start and just did not give Lilydale a look-in, keeping Lilydale under pressure all of the time. Monash went on to win 7 hoops to Lilydale 1 hoop. The final scores for the day Lilydale 4 games 32 hoops to Monash 2 games 33 hoops. Just like in the division one match, Lilydale was able to win the match, but the opposition had a better hoop count.

Lilydale Masters taste their first win

By Callum Ludwig

For the first time in 2026, both Lilydale Eagles senior sides were in action as the Masters took on Knox away and the Seniors were back in Blackburn to take on the Strikers.

The Masters got underway under Friday night lights but it was to be a shaky start.

The Eagles coughed the ball up trying to transition from defence to attack a couple of times early in the match and eventually it would cost them.

In the 10th minute, Knox would win the ball back high up the pitch and it would fall to Andrew Dean who finished calmly into the bottom left-hand corner.

It wouldn’t be long before the Eagles fought back however as Byron Loveless took a speculative shot from range in the 18th minute. His effort was spilled by the keeper and made its way into the back of the net to level the scores.

A tactical switch to bring Daniel Dickson into a sweeper position helped give the Eagles more control on the ball as he was consistently on hand to cut out Knox attacks.

Despite switching to defence it would be ‘Dicko’ to help create the second goal for the Eagles as he pumped it long after a goal kick. The Knox defenders failed to deal with the bouncing ball and it would be Piotr Swiatkiewicz to benefit as he chased down the ball and beat the oncoming keeper.

The Eagles would take this 2-1 lead into halftime, looking to build on their strong play later in the half as well as come up with a plan to reduce the threat of Knox’s quick forwards.

It would be all the Eagles way in the second half.

Byron Loveless had a chance early on when he let rip with a vicious shot that was well saved by the goalkeeper.

Father-and-son duo Daniel and Colin Dickson calmly repelled any Knox attacks, ably supported by Mark ‘The General’ Carrington, Brendan Webb, Amin Fazl and Daniel Nicholls.

Nima Babazadeh had some nice moments in midfield after joining the club during the week, Leigh Thompson was combative around the

pitch and the rest of the side continued to contribute.

This sustained pressure saw Knox only able to clear as far as Daniel Dickson on the left wing in the 58th minute as he cut inside and unleashed a slicing shot that flew into the back of the net to extend the Eagles’ lead.

Knox settled after this and grew back into the game, with Ben Mills called upon to rush out and make a decent save to keep the two-goal cushion for Lilydale.

Swiatkiewicz had a half-chance fall his way but was unable to direct his effort on target while there was also a late goalmouth scramble where Loveless struck the bar and Allen Dickson was only able to scuff the rebound wide.

3-1 was the full-time score, duly followed by an enthusiastic belting of a potential new club song. The Masters next take on Maroondah United away on Friday 8 May.

The Seniors were back at Mirrabooka Reserve on Anzac Day to take on fellow undefeated side Blackburn Strikers.

Testing a new formation and up against a title contender, the side hoped to take it up to their opponents, but an inability to execute was the theme of the day.

As could possibly be expected, teething issues with the roles of a new formation and battling a strong breeze had Blackburn piling on the pressure early, with pace out wide and dangerous balls into the box.

Mustangs wings clipped

By Geoff ‘Joffa’ Newstead

It was a big day of footy at the Heights Reserve onAnzacDayinwarm,sunnyconditionswith a big crowd cheering on their teams.

The Senior Women opened proceedings as they hosted the East Ringwood girls. The Mustangs got off to a solid start with a 3 goal to 1 first term and increased their lead in the second, going in at halftime with a 29-point advantage. To their credit, East Ringwood fought back in the second half, outscoring their opponents with strong play down forward. The Mustangs managed to hang on, recording an 11-point victory to remain undefeated. Young Macey Campbell continued on from her good form from round one to again get amongst the goals, booting 4 majors and being awarded the Anzac Medal for a best on ground performance. The Haberfield sisters were also named among the best in what was a good team effort.

Final Score: Mooroolbark 8 – 8 – 56 d East Ringwood 7 – 3 – 45

Goals: Campbell 4, Delaney 2, Carpenter, Batten 1 each

Best Players: Campbell, S. Haberfield, Lech, McMaster, R. Haberfield, Featherstone

Next up was the Reserves with the Mustangs taking on the strong Boronia side. They welcomed back two players from long-term injuries as well as a couple of new faces to the club. The Hawks followed on from their huge win last week and got the jump on the Mustangs with a 5-goal to 1 opening term, but an even second quarter gave the boys some hope at halftime. Unfortunately, that hope was short-lived as Boronia stepped up a gear in the second half and ran away to record a 109-point win. Jordy Roth continues to gather possessions and will be pressing for senior selection in the near future, while newcomer Ethan Filliponi was again very solid in defence. Due to a lack of talls, vice captain Matt Graham was given the ruckman role and battled valiantly all game.

Final Score: Mooroolbark 3 – 0 – 18 lost to Boronia 18 – 19 – 127

Goals: Wyss, Andrews, Colafella 1 each

Best Players: Filliponi, Roth, Graham, Logg, Kist, Kowalski

An effort from range was saved by Eagles’ keeper Callum Ludwig, but shortly after Blackburn got the breakthrough through Lachlan Rusmir, after his free kick went through the wall and found the corner.

Three minutes later and it was Rusmir again to double Blackburn’s advantage.

With long balls dropping short due to the wind and struggles getting the roles right when playing out from the back, Lilydale were getting pinned in, or when they did attack, getting caught on the counter.

A desperate scramble which included a Ludwig save and desperate attempts from Eagles defenders to clear kept the scoreline at 2-0 but it wouldn’t last as Brendan Siow scored a third in the 26th minute.

Lilydale attempted to revert formation to grow back into the game but it was to no avail as Siow made it 4-0 before halftime, leaving Lilydale with some soul-searching to do.

After the restart, it looked as though the onslaught would continue when a ball over the top saw Louis Driver make it 5-0, while a Blackburn forward was denied by an onrushing Ludwig not long after,

Frustrations grew from the Eagles, with Christian ‘Flik’ Lindner-Mark receiving a yellow card from the referee for arguing, despite his claims he was complaining about the wind.

The Eagles’ defence grew more resolute and the game got more physical, though the referee Andrew seemed content to let things go.

Marcus Salvitti copped a yellow after he made a cynical challenge in response to a foul he thought was not given, while play had to be stopped after a Blackburn player went down after contesting a cross into the box and colliding with Ludwig as he punched clear, with the ball smashing into the Blackburn forward’s head.

Shortly afterthe same player crashed into Ludwig, this time while he had two hands on a high claim, but the referee waved it on.

There was a few half-chances for both sides but nothing of note and the final score would remain 5-0.

The

will look to bounce back against

Prior to the Senior game, players, supportersanddignitariesgatheredtowitnesstheAnzac Day ceremony with the National Anthem, The Last Post and the laying of wreaths under the Australian flag. After their great win last week, the Mustangs were keen to continue their good form against Boronia, and after a 3-goal-to-nil first term, things were on track at quarter time. Unfortunately, that’s where it all ended. The Hawks piled on 6 goals to 1 in the second term and went into the main break with a 7-point lead. That lead increased in the second half with Boronia drawing away to record a 33-point win. While the boys never gave up trying, as coach David Gallagher said after the game, they seemed to lack fitness. As such, the boys can expect a torrid time on the training track this week. Vice captain, Harry Keeling, battled hard all game and was voted best, while Rhys Crossley spoiled many of the opposition’s marking attempts in the last line of defence. Andrew Barker and Connor Riley were also in defence roles and never gave up all game.

Final Score:Mooroolbark7–13–55lostto Boronia 13 – 10 – 88

Goals: Beasley 3, Atkins 2, Ryan, Gilbee 1 each

Best Players: Keeling, Barker, Riley, Crossley, Maki, Hartman

Netball Results

Thisseason,Mooroolbarkdecidedtoenter three netball teams in the EFNL competition, which is played on a Friday night.

Results 17 April:

Mooroolbark Green 25 lost to Mt Evelyn 48

BestPlayers:LivMenzelandRemyStewart

Mooroolbark Black 19 lost to South Croydon 21

Best Players: Heidi Parkin and Sue Arthur Mooroolbark Gold start their season on the 24th April

Results 24 April:

Mooroolbark Green 52 defeated Mitcham 18

Mooroolbark Black defeated Waverley Blues 20

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1. What emoji do you use the most?

SMILEY FACE AND FIST PUMP

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

GIRLFRIEND, DOGS, COCA COLA

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

THE SNOWY MOUNTAIN HYDRO SCHEME, MOST AMAZING THING I HAVE EVER SEEN

4. What was your first car? Did you name it? FORD CORTINA – CALLED HER GIRL

5. Where would you like to retire? LITTLE COUNTRY HIDEAWAY CALLED GILDEROY, SO PEACEFUL

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

PICKLED OX TONGUE KEBABS – JURY STILL OUT ON THEM

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

SUPERMAN – FLY ALL OVER THIS BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY AND EXPLORE

8. What movie title matches your job role RAMBO – FIRST BLOOD

9. What is the craziest thing you believed as a child? IF YOU DIDN’T EAT YOUR GREENS YOU WOULDN’T GROW UP - IT ACTUALLY TURNED OUT TO BE TRUE

10. If you could have a conversation with your pet, what would you talk about? WHAT DO YOU MEAN, I ALWAYS HAVE CONVERSATIONS WITH MY PETS

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