Tuesday, 17 March, 2026
Neighbourhood owl helped by locals
International Women’s Day celebrated
More murals destined for Mooroolbark
See Real Estate liftout inside
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A Star News Group Publication
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Premiership victory Kilsyth’s U12-6 team had a dream finish to the 2025/2026 season, landing the grand final honours against top-of-the-ladder finishers, Heatherdale. The Redbacks hadn’t won against the Heatherdale side during the home and away play, so they knew it was going to be a tough grand final. Playing a skilled and poised match, coming into bat after a 2/100 score from their opponents, Kilsyth was steady in their run rates, leading to a victory. It was the first Under 12 premiership for the Redbacks since 2018/2019 and the 26th junior premiership for the club. To read more, turn to page 33
Kilsyth CC U12-6 2025/26 Premiership Team. (Supplied)
No consultation By Callum Ludwig A proposal to construct 106 warehouses on Quarry Road has sparked fierce backlash from local residents and educational leaders, who claim they have been sidelined by developers and a fast-tracked planning process. The application, submitted by Lilydale Land Pty Ltd, is seeking a ministerial permit through the Victorian Government’s Development Facilitation Program. This pathway allows the Minister for Transport and Planning to bypass local councils to speed up
priority projects. Mount Lilydale Mercy College (MLMC), which operates sporting facilities and an outdoor classroom adjacent to the site, was not consulted about the plans. Business Manager Dean de Munk expressed grave concerns regarding traffic reports that predict over 1100 vehicles daily. “Our students and staff sharing a road with trucks is just not going to work; it’s not safe,” Mr de Munk said, noting that Anderson Street is already at a “gridlock” during peak hours. He emphasised that while the school is not
against development, the current plans lack essential safety features like footpaths, lighting, and appropriate screening. Local residents are equally alarmed. Kristy Thompson, whose children attend nearby schools, personally distributed 1000 copies of the application after discovering only two neighbours had been officially contacted. “I’m doing everything in my power to stop it,” Ms Thompson said, citing concerns over privacy, noise, and the safety of children who ride bikes along the road.
Neighbour Chelsea Preston added that the industrial scale is “out of character” for the quiet residential pocket. The project involves property developer Gestalt and law firm Planning & Property Partners. Even the neighbouring Boral Coldstream quarry reportedly had no prior knowledge of the plans. With the community now mobilised, many are calling for meaningful input before a final decision permanently alters the landscape of Lilydale. To read more, turn to page 3
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