Tuesday, 2 September, 2025
Spring bushfire outlook released
Gully market generosity continues
Turning Aussie kickers into US champions
Real estate liftout inside
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Zanda’s bravery recognised By Shamsiya Hussainpoor Year 7 Monbulk College student Zanda Davidson has been honoured with the Monbulk Rotary Club’s ‘Youth Triple Zero Hero Award’ after calmly taking charge during a serious roadside emergency. At just 12 years old, Zanda called Triple Zero, retrieved GPS coordinates, directed traffic, and supported his mother as she performed CPR. “He stayed calm and just knew what to do,” Ms Davidson said. Senior Sergeant Cassandra Forbes said, Zanda made us all feel warm and fuzzy with his heroic act. To read more about Zanda’s courageous actions, turn to page 12. Zanda’s family, members of the Rotary Club, and Monbulk Police attended the award ceremony to celebrate his heroic actions. (Shamsiya Hussainpoor: 499739)
$13m Olinda boost By Shamsiya Hussainpoor The Olinda Precinct in the Dandenong Ranges is getting a much-needed upgrade, with Stage Two set to kick off later this year after State Givernment announced $13 million funding. What was once a golf course has now become a favourite spot for local families and visitors, and
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the improvements aim to make it even better. The plans include better car parking, new toilets, upgraded pathways, improved drainage, and a cafe run by Alchemy Distillers - all designed to make the park safer, easier to get around, and more enjoyable for everyone. Environment minister Steve Dimopoulos recently chipped in an extra $2 million to help ex-
pand the project. Stage Two builds on Stage One’s success, which brought in a great all-abilities playground, sports facilities, picnic spots, walking trails, and an off-lead dog area. Kallista resident and mum, Ashley Gillespie said the park gets pretty busy, especially on weekends, and the parking and slippery paths can be a
bit of a hassle. She’s looking forward to the new upgrades, especially a new cafe. Parks Victoria is making sure the upgrades respect the env ironment and local Indigenous heritage. To read more, turn to page page 10
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