Tuesday, 17 March, 2026
Rodent poisons indirectly killing wildlife
Yarra Valley women celebrated for IWD events
$11k raised from Eastern 80 bike rides
See Real Estate liftout inside
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A Star News Group Publication
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Crank it up By Oliver Winn Sounds of vintage machinery, woodchopping and blacksmithing permeated the town of Yarra Junction for the 2026 Crank Up festival. Taking place across 14 and 15 March, the event proved popular once again, attracting bumper crowds on both days. The event was hosted by the Upper Yarra Museum, with all proceeds going back into the organisation to ensure the history of the Yarra Valley is preserved. Established in 1978 the festival all about showcasing history is also a piece of history itself, having delivered festivals every year, only stopping for Covid-19. On Saturday, people battled it out in tug o’ war battles while others admired a fine selection of classic cars at The Mr Excited Show and Shine classic car show. Sunday saw plenty turn up to watch the exciting wood chop competition while heritage commercial trucks fascinated onlookers. Go to page 22 to see the top pics from the day
The wood chop competition was a big hit among the event’s attendees. (Supplied)
Market concerns By Gabriella Vukman The Healesville Community Market Incorporated (HCMI) expressed concerns after the open green space at 13 Green Street will be unavailable for three months from 13 April to the end of June. Despite lease payments continuing throughout that time, no access will be allowed during the period. Another 13 weeks of landscaping works from the end of September will also impact access. Members were also informed that there would
be no vehicle access during the liability period which continues from October until the end of June 2027. HCMI president Tracy Leitch noted the Healesville community market has been operating in the carpark and green space for almost half a century. Ms Leitch said, “The HCMI Market has been in operation for over 45yrs, and is a much needed community group.” “We were not aware of the proposal put forth by the Council until late 2025, and the coun-
cil did not make us aware of the community engagement which was actually done in 2024”. she said. The council’s current plans for the upgrade include a concrete path, two picnic tables, an amphitheater with rock walls, lockable bollards, mulching and landscaping. Acting director of planning and sustainable futures Nathan Islip told Star Mail, “We thank the many community members and groups that have provided feedback on the renewal of the Green Street site since we purchased it in 2023 and com-
mitted to retaining it permanently as public open space for the community. According to Mr Islip, the market will be able to continue operating throughout the closure of the green space. “Most of the land they use will remain available during the works, including the large asphalt carpark area, which accounts for around threequarters of the licensed space,” Mr Islip told Star Mail. Turn to page 3 to read more
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