Mail – Mt Evelyn Star Mail – 24th February 2026

Join in ride

By Callum Ludwig

In memory of an active and adventurous Mt

boy, community members are called to take part a charity bike ride, Join in for James.

James Granger was 16 when he died in February 2025 from complications related to cancer and a bone marrow transplant and the money raised from the ride will go to Challenge, a not-for-profit supporting kids with cancer.

James’ mother Saskia Granger said before James became unwell, one of his greatest joys was riding his mountain bike with his mates.

“That’s why we’ve created this event; a charity bike ride in honour of James, celebrating what he loved, while we support the incredible people who helped carry him, and us, through the worst of times,” she said.

“So we’re calling on James’ local community, and anyone looking for a meaningful way to make a difference, to register to ride, every dollar raised will go directly to Challenge this ride is a way of keeping James’ spirit alive - his strength, his fun, his love for riding with mates - and helping other kids with cancer, and their families, feel supported and loved.”

Turn to page 10 for more

Algae outbreak

By Callum Ludwig

Dog owners are warned to be wary when walking at Lillydale Lake, and other Victorian waterways, due to a potentially deadly risk in the water.

Blue-green algae has been detected in the water and the Lilydale Vet Centre is trying to warn dog walkers of its toxicity.

Dr Miranda Oosthuizen from Lilydale Vet Centre said it is critically important for people to be aware of blue-green algae, especially in light of

the recent situation at Lillydale Lake.

“Melbourne Water recently tested Lilydale Lake after community members reported potential algae, while they found that the current levels of toxic blue-green algae are low and do not currently pose a severe health risk to people or pets, the Yarra Ranges Council continues to strongly advise that swimming in the lake is not recommended at any time,” she said.

“What is a ‘low, safe level’ on a Tuesday can explode into a highly toxic, deadly bloom by Fri-

day if the weather gets hot, sunny, and the water is stagnant.”

Algal blooms have been in the news in Australia due to an ongoing toxic bloom that has affecting the South Australian gulfs for over a year.

Dr Oosthuizen said humans usually know better than to drink smelly, green lake water, but dogs don’t.

“Furthermore, humans don’t use their mouths to clean their bodies, a dog’s natural behaviour— splashing in the shallows, drinking from the edge,

and licking their wet fur—puts them directly in the line of fire and because of their smaller body weight, a much smaller amount of toxin is fatal,” she said.

“It is one of the most dangerous, fast-acting natural toxins a dog can encounter, consuming toxic blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) is an extreme veterinary emergency and is often fatal.

“While not all algae blooms produce toxins, the ones that do are incredibly lethal.”

More on page 6

SafeScript push after death

By Callum Ludwig

Warning: This story mentions references to possible suicide. If this is distressing or raises any concerns for you, please contact Lifeline at 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au or Beyond Blue 1300 224 636.

Coroner Ingrid Giles has highlighted the importance of the impending improvements to the SafeScript system following the death of a young Lilydale man in 2023.

Laurence O’Brien was 22-years-old when he died as a result of mixed drug toxicity, including being affected by tapentadol, clonazepam, citalopram, amphetamine, olanzapine, oxazepam, pregabalin and ketamine.

Laurence had a normal childhood and upbringing, but was involved in a serious motor collision in 2011 that left him with an acquired brain injury, and he had been supported by the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) since.

Laurence regularly experienced headaches and pain in the back of his head and was prescribed pain medication to manage it.

As a teenager and young adult Laurence began to suffer from depression and experimented with illicit drugs and alcohol, with his clinical neuropsychologist Dr Simone Field believing he developed a drug dependence disorder. Laurence used cannabis and methamphetamine, while also taking prescription medications that were not prescribed to him.

In November 2021, Laurence was admitted to The Melbourne Clinic due to psychosis secondary to cannabis and alcohol use and was trialled on medications to address potential attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and his drug dependence disorder, with psychiatrist Dr Ed Theologis noting he had developed a substance dependence and a gaming addiction. By 2022, Laurence’s long-standing GP began to describe him as a ‘very demanding patient’, requesting scripts for Mersyndol Forte, tramadol, clonazepam and pregabalin and starting ‘doctor shopping’, looking for other doctors to fulfill his requests.

After noticing via SafeScript in 2022 that Laurence was obtaining multiple prescriptions from multiple doctors, his GP refused to treat him further.

After another drug detoxification admission in April 2023, Laurence repeatedly requested an increase in his lisdexamphetamine dose from Dr Theologis which was denied.

At the time of his death, Laurence’s prescription medication regime included escitalopram, tapentadol, pregabalin, clonidine, olanzapine and lisdexamphetamine. Olanzapine and lisdexaphetamine were prescribed by Dr Theologis, while the other medications were prescribed by Dr Han San Aw Yeang, the new GP Laurence had begun seeing.

On 14 September 2023, Dr Yeang consulted with Laurence and noted an ‘irregular prescription of pregabalin’ identified on SafeScript, declined to change Laurence’s opioid from tapentadol tablets to buprenorphine patches and provided a repeat prescription for tapentadol which Laurence filled that day.

On 15 September 2023, after a night spent awake until the early hours of the morning playing video games, Laurence had a meeting with Dr Field discussing future employment opportunities where Laurence appeared ‘very drowsy’, a fact which Dr Field noticed and questioned him on.

After Dr Field left, Laurence’s father spoke to him about getting some sleep and at some point, he returned to his bedroom. During the afternoon or evening, his father checked on him and found him sleeping on his stomach with his head rested on his right arm. Sleeping on his stomach was usual for Laurence to avoid pressure on the back of his head, but sleeping on his arm was not, though his father did not think this was strange as Laurence had been so tired.

At about 8.15am the next morning, Laurence’s father checked on him again and found him in the same position, assumed he was tired and did not attempt to wake him before going out for most of the day. Upon returning, Laurence’s mother said he had not left his room or eaten anything that day and he was found in the same position.

CPR was attempted by his father and paramedics but Laurence could not be revived. Police also attended and noticed a variety of medication packets missing large quantities of tablets, though not all within each packet were consumed.

In the toxicological analysis, forensic pathol-

ogy registrar Dr Michael Duffy noted the presence of multiple substances which, in combination, can cause death by central nervous and respiratory depression, with tapentadol also detected at a significantly elevated level that can cause considerable respiratory depression.

Coroner Giles obtained SafeScript records and a statement from the Department of Health regarding SafeScript operations and compliance due to the evidence of prescription shopping.

The coroner noted that from April 2020 it has been mandatory to check SafeScript prior to writing or dispensing a prescription for a medicine monitored through the system and clinicians who failed to do so could be penalised.

Department of Health executive Olivia Goodman provided a statement to the court of evidence in the year leading up to Laurence’s death of doctors not correctly checking SafeScript, though the department had not taken action against these prescribers despite proactive and reactive monitoring measures in place.

One GP prescribed monitored medicines (tapentadol IR and tapentadol SR) to Laurence on 17 August 2023 which were dispensed that same day without checking SafeScript.

Laurence’s former longstanding GP (who cared for him up until the end of 2022) prescribed monitored medications on five separate dates and did not check SafeScript prior to issuing the prescriptions though did check SafeScript on 19 October 2022 and did not issue any further prescriptions from this date.

A third GP issued two prescriptions in October 2022 and did not check SafeScript.

Laurence’s initial GP did not comment to the court when asked for response and the second GP worked in the same clinic and said she provided repeat prescriptions as requested by Laurence but did not comment on the fact she didn’t check SafeScript.

The third GP, whose response the coroner said was ‘considered and thoughtful’, saw Laurence usually on weekends when his usual GP was unavailable and explained that he had experienced technical issues accessing SafeScript that his clinic’s IT team could not resolve. He was also unaware that checking SafeScript had been made mandatory as he was living in New Zealand at the time.

The GP figured out a workaround and is now

vigilant in checking SafeScript and also stopped prescribing Laurence when his requests became more frequent.

The coroner could not rule whether or not Laurence had intentionally taken his own life and it is possible his death was caused by the unintended consequence of the deliberate ingestion of drugs. A friend had noted Laurence had devopled a tolerance to his medications over time, was occasionally reckless with them and might have taken more than prescribed to ‘feel good’.

The coroner found Laurence’s regular team of clinicians, who were named, treated Laurence appropriately, coordinated their care, and took steps to mitigate the risks of the suite of prescribed medications Laurence was on, including directing the use of Webster Packs and the checking of SafeScript.

Coroner Giles said the other practitioners perpetuated the cycle of Laurence’s addiction and his ‘prescription shopping’.

“While Laurence’s long-time regular GP was engaged with Laurence up until the end of 2022 in a caring and patient-centred approach, even he failed on five occasions to check SafeScript and was thus poorly-placed to detect prescription-shopping at an earlier point in the face of Laurence’s known substance dependency issues, escalating demands, and tales of ‘lost prescriptions’,” she said.

“Notwithstanding, I have elected to notify my finding to the Department of Health (Department) to inform its ongoing work in monitoring compliance with SafeScript, which is critical to its success and to improving the safety of medication prescribing and dispensing to members of the Victorian community.

“The historic focus of enforcement action on the ‘very worst offenders’ (of those not checking SafeScript) does not account for the fact that even ‘one-off’ prescribing and dispensing of monitored medicines without checking SafeScript can compromise patient safety, care and outcomes.”

Coroner Giles said in response to another death, the Victorian Government had already introduced new compliance and enforcement powers under the amended Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981, a move which is ‘highly positive’.

Arson attack on tobacco store

Maroondah Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a fire at a tobacco store in Croydon on 12 February.

Two unknown male offenders used an angle grinder to gain entry the store on the Maroondah Highway about 3.30am.

A witness, working at the Burnt bridge Bakehouse next door, confronted the offenders before one of the men approached him with a sledgehammer, causing the witness to retreat inside a nearby business.

The offenders used an accelerant to set the shop front alight, before fleeing in a black SUV.

An investigation into the incident is underway and an arson chemist has attended.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, with footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

The tobacconist targeted in the attack has been boarded up. (Stewart Chambers: 535533)

Cards potentially skimmed at Montrose

By Callum Ludwig

Some people who used the Bendigo Bank ATM in Montrose in January have reported having their card ‘skimmed’, with suspicious transactions coming out of their accounts.

The ATM is operated by the Community Bank Mt Evelyn, and the board has been made aware of the incidents.

The ATM has since been checked and should be safe to use.

A Bendigo Bank spokesperson said Bendigo Bank takes scams and fraud very seriously, pro-

tecting customers and safeguarding systems with a variety of crime prevention methods.

“It goes without saying that when a customer is the victim of a card skimming fraud, the Bank will reimburse for the loss of funds,” they said.

“By working together with customers, the Bank can reduce the incidence of scams and fraud, so it is important customers take steps to protect themselves and are vigilant in responding to and reporting scams and fraud.

“Bendigo Bank recommends customers follow ScamWatch’s advice to avoid falling victim

to scams and fraud.”

ScamWatch advises anyone using an ATM or faced with another potential scam to Stop, Think and Protect.

Stop: If something doesn’t look or feel right, such as difficulty inserting a card into an ATM

Think: Before taking action. Do not insert your card into a suspect ATM

Protect: Act quickly if something feels wrong by reporting suspected skimming or fraud at your branch, or by calling Bendigo Bank’s contact centre on 1300 236 344.

Email: enquiries@mailcommunity.com.au Distribution Enquiries

advertising@mailcommunity.com.au Editorial

editor@mailcommunity.com.au

IN BRIEF

Croydon police station reduces hours Victoria Police will temporarily reduce reception counter hours at Croydon Police Station.

Reception will now be open Tuesday and Thursday between 10am to 6pm.

This is being done as Victoria Police prioritises releasing available police from desk duties to bolster the number of officers in the community preventing and responding to crime.

Outside of times when the reception counter is closed, we will maintain 24/7 police patrols/be serviced by police from neighbouring Police Service Areas.

The updated reception hours reflect times when the community is most likely to attend a police station. This is during the day for assistance with administrative matters, including signing statutory declarations.

In an emergency, the community is always directed to call Triple Zero (000) or for non-urgent reports call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444. Traffic incident in Ringwood Police are seeking witnesses and/or dashcam footage regarding an incident that occurred on the 5th of February, 2026, between 10.40pm and 10.45pm at the intersection of Bedford Road and Warrandyte Road, Ringwood.

A pedestrian was crossing at the pedestrian crossing on Warrandyte Road with a green crossing signal. An unknown vehicle has turned left from Station Street/Bedford Road and struck the pedestrian. The driver stopped and moved the pedestrian off the road, returned to the vehicle and drove off.

The vehicle involved appears to be a silver Commodore VE or similar.

If you are able to assist please call Constable Turner at the Ringwood Police station on 9871 3000.

Lost items

A ring was lost on 14 February 2026 (Valentines Day) between 7.30pm and 8.30pm. The victim was walking north along Dorset Road and then west along Maroondah Highway.

If you should locate it, please contact the Croydon Police Station on 9724 0100 and quote the incident number 260068389.

A mobile phone called ‘dkay’s iphone’ was located at Croydon town square/centreway arcade by a member of the public and handed to police.

If you are the owner or know the owner, please contact Croydon Police property office on 9724 0110 and quote property reference 202602-E-1225. The phone is passcode-protected and there are no emergency contacts listed.

A Milwaukee Tool Backpack was located at the intersection of Canterbury and Dorset Roads and handed to police.

If you are the owner or know the owner, please contact Ringwood police property office on 9871 3032 and quote property reference 202602-E-1394. Car rescued from ledge in Olinda CFA crews responded to a single-vehicle crash on Mount Dandenong Tourist Road in Olinda in the early hours of Wednesday, 18 February, at about 3.09am.

A CFA spokesperson said five CFA units attended alongside Ambulance Victoria and Victoria Police.

Firefighters stabilised the vehicle after it was found hanging over a ledge.

The scene was brought under control at 3.24am and declared safe at 3.45am. No injuries were reported.

Delays plague Spartans

By Callum Ludwig

After lengthy delays, there might be movement at the Montrose site of the proposed new Spartans Gym and Fitness in the near future.

With rubbish illegally dumped on the lot and the sign promising a 2023 completion defaced, both residents and fitness enthusiasts alike may be pleased to hear construction could be nearing closer.

Owner Danny Vorhauer said it began in 2019 when a landlord for another of his businesses asked if he was interested in building a gym for him, with an expected turnaround of 18 months.

“This was all before Covid, and obviously Covid hit and eeverything seemed to be going on the go slow from the council’s perspective,” he said.

“But what I do know talking to the architects last year is that for a normal development, it would be maybe five to eight special conditions, but there was 80 special conditions they put on this development, which was unheard of from the architect’s side.

“They’ve spent over a quarter of a million dollars getting all the permits from council.”

After further negotiations with the landlord, a division to subdivide was made and the search for a reputable builder is underway, a tough task given the large number of builders going bust in recent years.

Mr Vorhauer said the permit remains valid as long as they egin construction by October 2027 and complete the build by 2029.

“We hope to be started and finish long before that so the next step for me is to get a valuation on the finished development which the bank needs…then we just need to do a soil test just to make sure that where the actual development is going, that the soil there has nothing crooked about it,” he said.

“Unfortunately, my staff have had to put up with a lot of negative comments from people, which is unfortunate because they don’t know the facts behind it all.

“We had not slowed it down, we were told in good faith it’d be built and developed and handed over to us in 18 months. no one knew Covid was going to hit and no one knew there was going to be 80 conditions needed to be met to get the permits through.”

The current Spartans Gym and Fitness in Kilsyth South has around 4000 members cur-

rently, having grown from 400 members when Mr Vorhauer purchased it.

Mr Vorhauer said he’s a very ambitious man and his goal is to aim for 10,000 members.

“There are other gyms around Melbourne that have 10,000 members but I think it’ll be something very unique, not only will it be a gym, but it’ll be a wellness center,” he said.

“Our motto is fitness for everyone, our oldest member is 91, our youngest is 16 and we’ve got everything in between that…we want to create an area for people who have never been a gym to come in and have their own area to train to build up their confidence before they step into the big gym.

“There’s a lot of bodybuilding gyms around the area and that’s something that puts people off joining gyms but obviously being part of a gym, exercising, having your own personal body goals is good for mental health as well, we really want to offer that service and that experience where people feel like it is the place they go to have some me time or some friend time.”

The site located at 53-55 Canterbury Road, Montrose had a permit application approved in 2019 to build 48 warehouses, 79 storage units, a service station and convenience shop, food and drink premises and restricted retail premises.

In 2021, an updated permit application to remove the warehouses and storage units to build a gymnasium and medical suite, with extra car parking and a restaurant instead of a food and drink premise, was approved on condition that better landscaping and fencing was part of the development.

Under the new permit, the proposal included a three storey building, 322 car parking spaces, 40 bicycle spaces, four retail premises, outdoor seating and an outdoor exercise area.

Mr Vorhauer suggested the cafe and medical centre will be subletted to tenants.

According to the Yarra Ranges Council’s planning application register, the original permit (accepted 2018) and a first amendment (accepted 2020) remain effective, but the most recent amendment made at the 2021 council meeting has lapsed.

Yarra Ranges Council confirmed that on 3 September 2025, the applicant was granted an extension (the third for the permit) and have until 28 June 2027 to commence works.

NEWS MP Violi on shadow ministry

By Callum Ludwig

Casey MP Aaron Violi has been given increased responsibility in Angus Taylor’s Opposition, taking up roles in the shadow ministry.

Mr Violi has been Shadow Minister for the Digital Economy, Shadow Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, and Shadow Minister for Cyber Security.

Mr Violi said it’s very exciting, having worked in the digital economy and in business for 15 years.

“I’m a passionate advocate for tech and innovation and the role it can play in helping unlock sustainable economic growth, drive productivity, deliver higher wages for all Australians and make sure it’s sustainable into the future,” he said.

“So to have the opportunity and the trust of Angus Taylor is humbling and really exciting and Angus has been very clear from day one that our focus is on restoring our living standards and protecting the Australian way of life.

“The digital economy and cyber security are at the forefront of that, and I’m looking forward to working with the team and delivering for the community in Casey and also across the country by getting these policies set.”

Mr Violi’s previous experience in the digital economy was with Canadian tech startup Ritual, where he worked in a variety of roles in the AsiaPacific region and in partnerships, as well as seeing examples of and opportunities for innovation during his time with Yarra Valley Snack Foods and Mars Australia.

Mr Violi said helping the tech sector grow and helping all businesses flourish is what he’s really passionate about.

“Because if we’ve got strong businesses in Casey and across the country, they can pay more in wages to their workers, they can invest more into their business, which drives additional economic growth and increased productivity,”

“It allows them then to support the local com-

munity as so many family and small businesses do in Casey, and by unlocking their potential, we unlock the potential of the country and every Australian benefits.

“The rising tide lifts all boats so if we get the settings right at a national level in terms of giving businesses confidence to invest in their businesses, getting those settings right, every business in Casey will flourish.”

Mr Violi relinquishes his positions as shadow assistant minister for communications and chief opposition whip, with the latter role an important part in the Liberal Party’s recent leadership spill.

Now that the shadow ministry has been decided, Mr Violi said it is crucial now that they’re not talking about themselves as a Coalition anymore and instead are talking and listening to the Australian people and understanding their concerns and their needs.

“While it was an honour to serve as the chief opposition whip, I’m very grateful for this new opportunity and the first thing that I will do, while I’ve got my own experiences and my own thoughts, will be to get out and to engage and to listen, primarily with businesses here in Casey,” he said.

“As an example, we’ve got such a strong farming community in the electorate and I’ve been to visit a lot of our farms and they’re using AI and technology to help sort their cherries as an example, which is giving productivity and better output to the business but more importantly, it is delivering cheaper products into the supermarkets for all Australians.

“So whether it’s something like that, whether it’s allowing particularly sole trader and subcontractor tradies to be able to invoice and do their paperwork more efficiently so they can get home, spend more time with their families, they’re the kind of tangible examples that I really want to unlock because it’s not just about economic growth and productivity, it’s about allowing those business owners that are investing so much and working so hard to finish the job so they can get home, spend their time with their families and their loved ones.”

Ethical and safe development of AI, cybersecurity and helping businesses and workers to upskill with micro-credentials, such as coding or using AI, are other topics of his portfolio Mr Violi is interested in delving into.

Beware of blue-green algae

By Callum Ludwig

Dog owners are warned to be wary when walking at Lillydale Lake, and other Victorian waterways, due to a potentially deadly risk in the water.

Blue-green algae has been detected in the water and the Lilydale Vet Centre is trying to warn dog walkers of its toxicity.

Dr Miranda Oosthuizen from Lilydale Vet Centre said it is critically important for people to be aware of blue-green algae, especially in light of the recent situation at Lillydale Lake.

“Melbourne Water recently tested Lilydale Lake after community members reported potential algae, while they found that the current levels

of toxic blue-green algae are low and do not currently pose a severe health risk to people or pets, the Yarra Ranges Council continues to strongly advise that swimming in the lake is not recommended at any time,” she said.

“Even when authorities say levels are low, dog owners must remain on high alert, blue-green algae is highly unpredictable.

“What is a ‘low, safe level’ on a Tuesday can explode into a highly toxic, deadly bloom by Friday if the weather gets hot, sunny, and the water is stagnant.

Algal blooms have been in the news in Australia due to an ongoing toxic bloom that has affecting the South Australian gulfs for over a year.

Dr Oosthuizen said humans usually know better than to drink smelly, green lake water, but dogs don’t.

“Furthermore, humans don’t use their mouths to clean their bodies, a dog’s natural behaviour— splashing in the shallows, drinking from the edge, and licking their wet fur—puts them directly in the line of fire and because of their smaller body weight, a much smaller amount of toxin is fatal,” she said.

“It is one of the most dangerous, fast-acting natural toxins a dog can encounter, consuming toxic blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) is an extreme veterinary emergency and is often fatal.

just walking near the lake, even away from the algae, you must keep your dog from drinking out of stagnant, muddy puddles on the trails, as they can harbour Leptospira bacteria from wildlife urine which causes life-threatening kidney and liver disease.”

Dr Oosthuizen advises that if a dog consumes algae, owners are advised to move away from the water and prevent further ingestion before rinsing thoroughly if the dog has algae on its coat, washing with fresh, clean water and mild soap immediately. Wear gloves if possible to protect yourself, as some toxins can affect humans too. On the way to the emergency vet, call them to let them know you are coming with a suspected algae poisoning case.

Do not induce vomiting yourself unless explicitly instructed by a veterinarian or poison control, do not try to make your dog vomit at home as some toxins can cause rapid neurological decline, which increases the risk of the dog inhaling vomit into their lungs (aspiration).

Melbourne’s warmer temperatures in February has created the perfect conditions for bluegreen algae blooms and here are active warnings for several Victorian waterways.

Dr Oosthuizen advises that when walking near lakes these precautions are essential:

“While not all algae blooms produce toxins, the ones that do are incredibly lethal.”

Depending on the toxin, the first signs a dog owner might notice are sudden and sometimes violent vomiting, diarrhea which can come on suddenly or be dark and bloody and foaming at the mouth or drooling much heavier than normal.

Secondly are the neurological impacts where the dog may look dizzy, confused, or ‘drunk’ on their feet, muscle tremours, weakness or collapsing and seizures.

Finally, breathing will be impacted with heavy, labored panting or gasping for air and their gums may look pale, white, gray, or have a bluish/purplish tint due to a lack of oxygen.

If a dog shows these signs after being near water, they need to be rushed to an emergency vet immediately.

Dr Oosthuizen said it is the speed of bluegreen algae poisoning that makes it so incredibly dangerous.

“If a dog consumes toxic algae, it does not act like a typical stomach bug where they gradually get sick over a few days, it strikes violently and immediately,” she said.

“During an algae bloom, the danger isn’t just in the lake itself, if it rains or water splashes up onto the surrounding mud and pathways, the algae can concentrate in the shallow puddles near the shore.

“Dogs love a dirty puddle, so owners need to keep a tight grip on the leash even when they are

Master the ‘short lead’ walk, by keeping your dog on a short, non-retractable lead, avoid the water’s edge as toxic blooms are often blown by the wind into the shallows and scum often collects right at the shoreline where dogs like to sniff and prevent paddling as even if dogs don’t drink, algae can stick to their paws and fur and they can ingest the toxins when grooming.

To avoid dogs drinking the water, carry a portable dog water bottle or a collapsible bowl and if you see your dog eyeing the lake water, use a high-value treat to redirect them to their own clean water source.

Look out for ‘red flags’ of algae blooms by scanning the water before letting the dog out of the car. If the water looks like pea soup or has streaks of spilled paint (green, blue, or reddishbrown), stay well away. If there is a musty, earthy, or foul odour coming from the water, it’s a sign of decaying organic matter or active blooms.If you see dead fish or birds near the shore, do not let your dog touch the water or the shoreline debris. If your dog does accidentally come into contact with the water, do not let them lick themselves and use your fresh water bottle to rinse their legs and belly right there on the trail. Once home, give them a full bath with soap to ensure no microscopic toxins remain on the coat.

In Victoria, algae levels can change in 24 hours so owners should check these sources before heading out check the Melbourne Water website for local lake warnings and look for ‘No Swimming’ or ‘Amber/Red Alert’ signs posted by local councils at park entrances.

Hi-tech boost for gliders

Specially designed nest boxes are providing new hope for endangered greater gliders in the Victorian Central Highlands after an alarming population decline in the region.

Greater gliders need multiple tree hollows to survive but these cavities in a trunk or branch can take over 100 years to form.

Only about one per cent of the remaining Mountain Ash forest in the Central Highlands is old growth, the rest is often highly degraded.

Hollow-bearing trees are in short supply because of logging and bushfires.

So artificial greater glider homes are being installed at sites ranging across Toolangi, and Powelltown to help the species repopulate degraded areas.

While these sites escaped the recent bushfires in Victoria, other areas of greater glider habitat were damaged, putting the species under additional pressure.

Projects like this hope to boost populations.

The project is a partnership between the World Wide Fund for Nature Australia and the

Australian National University, with funding support from global tech company HP Inc.

Dozens have already been screwed into place.

In total, 170 artificially carved hollows and 166 nest boxes will be mounted for greater gliders over the next few months.

Compared to older designs, the ANU nest boxes are warmer in winter and cooler in summer because of insulation, air gaps, fireproof sealer, and heat reflective paint.

Dr Kara Youngentob, ANU senior research fellow and project lead, said, “We have a lot of forests that have lost hollow-bearing trees because of logging and fire.”

“There are trees that greater gliders can eat, but there’s no place for them to sleep. It’s kind of like having a bed and breakfast without the bed.”

“So we need to bring the beds back into the forest to try to bring the gliders back and we’re doing that with the help of nest boxes,” Dr Youngentob said.

Dr Kita Ashman, a WWF conservation scientist, has seen firsthand the impact of logging on

Secure your preferred home today

the species.

Ms Ashman said, “We returned to a site in Tallaganda State Forest after logging and there was one tree left in this entire area of forest. And I watched a glider come out and not have anywhere to go.”

“To see an endangered species come out of a tree hollow and just stare into the distance because there’s nothing left, that’s devastating, that’s gut-wrenching,” she said.

“But I am really hopeful that collaborations like this, and the amazing work that so many people are doing, can turn the tide for greater gliders.”

A trial of the ANU nest box design began in Tallaganda State Forest and National Park in 2022.

Greater gliders rapidly moved into the artificial homes.

ANU scientists are studying whether nest boxes boost population recovery following the 2019/2020 megafires.

ANU research fellow Dr Ana

has high hopes for the impact of the next boxes and even installed some in Toolangi State Forest.

Dr Gracanin said, “This is a large project with sites across the Central Highlands, restoring many hectares of habitat.

“We’ve targeted areas with not many hollows or none at all, but we know there are greater gliders nearby. We want to see them move in and raise babies.”

The greater glider nest boxes were constructed at Hall Men’s Shed in Canberra, Yass Men’s Shed in the NSW Southern Tablelands, and Woodchix in Sydney.

Carpenters of all skill levels are joining forces to help the recovery of an endangered species that many didn’t know existed.

Early indications are that greater glider numbers are increasing since the 2019/2022 fires, especially at sites augmented with nest boxes.

In the process, participants are enhancing their wellbeing through strengthened social connections, camaraderie, and a shared sense of purpose.

Summerset Chirnside Park has officially launched and our first release of homes are selling off the plan now.*

our first release of homes are selling off the plan now.*

Offering a choice of 2, 2.5 and 3 bedroom homes.

Summerset Chirnside Park is a modern village with resort-style facilities that will redefine retirement living, with the reassurance that there will be a residential aged care home onsite.^

For a limited time, you can save on the lease to occupy cost of your home with our Early Bird $20k Cashback offer. Simply sign a sales application for a selected first release home before 31 May 2026 and settle by 30 September 2026.#

Love the life you choose.

Homes selling fast! Book your appointment today to secure your preferred home.

Summerset Chirnside Park

Sales Suite: 273 Manchester Road, Chirnside Park 03 8777 4242 | chirnsidepark.sales@summerset.com.au

No luck for bobsled Bree

By Melissa Woods and Ian Chaband, AAP

Mt Evelyn’s Bree Walker continued her Olympic campaign with the final heats of the monobob and the two-woman bob events.

In the third run on Monday night (Tuesday AEDT) Walker had her best run of the competition, going under a minute for the first time by clocking 59.60 seconds.

She still had some trouble with the top turns, catching the inside wall coming out of turn two and then tapped the wall a few times after exiting at curve nine which cost her crucial time.

But defending Humphries Armbruster and Meyers Taylor both posted a time of 59.08 to eclipse the track record set minutes before by race leader Nolte.

Despite the solid performance Walker dropped back a spot to eighth and trailed Nolte by a whopping 1.53 seconds heading into the top-20 final run.

The Victorian product again laid down a strong fourth run, clocking 59.69 but finished 1.56 seconds off the pace overall.

Walker will get another chance to compete, joining Kiara Reddingius in the two-woman event on Friday February 20 (Saturday AEDT).

“It’s obviously heartbreaking, but there is a lot of learnings and I’m just going to take all those learnings into the two-man next week,” Walker said. “I said to Kiara when I crossed the line, ‘Alright, that’s done, on to the two-man’.

“I’m just going to go out there and work as hard as I can to hopefully have our best result as our twoman season’s been pretty hard this year but we’re Aussies and we don’t give up.”

Walker was back at the Cortina Sliding Centre on Friday, piloting the two-woman bob alongside brakewoman Kiara Reddingius, with the pair lying 10th after their first two of four runs.

After overcoming a rough draw as the 24th of the 25 pairs to go, the Aussie duo still clocked a commendable 57.45sec on their first run to finish 11th and they were joint-seventh fastest on the second run in 57.60 to move up a place.

They were 1.12sec behind the halfway leaders Laura Nolte and Deborah Levi, the German duo who look set to successfully defend their title.

In the men’s aerials, Canberra freestyle skier Reilly Flanagan failed to make the final, finishing 20th in qualifying with a second-run best of 87.57points, as Swiss Pirmin Werner was the best of the 12 finalists.

Sydneysider Kyra Wheatley, Australia’s lone ski cross competitor, finished last in her opening heat as German Daniela Maier went on to race to gold.

Come the final heats, Walker finished a creditable 10th in the two-women bob while her great German monobob rival Laura Nolte successfully defended her crown with Deborah Levi.

Earlier, Seve de Campo had slogged home in 41st place in cross-country skiing’s 50km classic, more than 22 minutes behind the great Norwegian Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo, who became the first Winter Olympian ever to win six golds in the same Games.

Etta’s efforts to help Laney

By Callum Ludwig

A Billanook Primary School student is going above and beyond to showcase the benefits of the ‘buddy’ system at schools.

Senior student Etta was Laney’s buddy as she started school last year, before a cancer diagnosis left poor Laney missing most of the school year.

Despite this, Etta spent a lot of time and effort supporting Laney and this year is joining the 86k for a Cure fundraising effort for kids with cancer.

Laney’s mum Lauren said she is friends with Etta’s mum Riaane on Facebook and had shared the link to the team she had created to help raise funds for the 86 kids per month who are diagnosed with childhood cancer, called Team Laney.

“Not long after Rianne (Etta’s mum) posted a link for Etta and Etta had joined the team and created her own goal,” she said.

“I couldn’t wipe the smile of my face, I was so proud of Etta for supporting Laney and pushing herself for a great cause, I believe this is something Etta will remember forever and for a young girl to believe she is making a difference is incredible.”

Just over a month after starting school in 2025, Laney was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a type of tumor which was growing on her skull. Lauren said Laney hit the jackpot with Etta, and although she spent more time in the hospital than at home and let alone school, she still can’t believe what a special bond they have.

“Etta went above and beyond to stay connected with Laney, dropping of birthday gifts, Christmas presents, art and craft creations,” she said.

“These special moments made Laney’s day and now Laney is back at school full time she is always looking out for Etta and is so happy in her company.”

After 10 months of intense chemotherapy, radiation and two operations on her brain between two hospitals, Laney was put into remission in December last year with no evidence of disease in her body.

Riaane said Etta had talked a few times about doing something to raise money for a cancer charity since finding out about Laney’s diagnosis.

“Once she saw that Lauren was doing the 86K

for a Cure challenge, she wanted to join the team, she loves Laney so much and Laney’s courage has inspired Etta to move out of her comfort zone too,” he said

“We are immensely proud of Etta, she’s chosen to challenge herself and do something uncomfortable, because she cares deeply about her friend and about finding a cure so this doesn’t happen to others.

“Seeing her react to this tough time with empathy, courage and determination to raise money fills us with pride.”

Etta has already raised $2286 at the time of writing, over her goal of $2000 already, while Team Laney has raised $6348.

Riaane said she loves to run and competes in Little Athletics and Cross Country, so the 86k for a Cure was perfect for her, although it’s definitely much more running that she’s used to.

“The challenge isn’t until March, so she hasn’t started yet, she is preparing by making sure she regularly runs in the lead-up,” she said.

To donate to Etta’s effort, visit ccia.org.au/fundraisers/riaanecomportriaanecomport/86k-fora-cure.

You can donate to Team Laney at ccia.org.au/ fundraisers/teamlaney.

Wellbeing leader at Billanook Primary School Jessica Brown said they are incredibly proud of Etta for taking the initiative to start a fundraiser to support Laney.

“Etta is an exceptional student who shows genuine leadership in many ways and this is another example of the sort of student she is,” she said.

“Our Buddy program has been a great success over many years, starting school is an exciting but often daunting experience and having an older student to offer support and care makes an incredible difference to ensure they start their school journey successfully.

“The school is promoting the fundraiser through our social media channels and school newsletters, we wish Etta all the very best on her fundraiser and are incredibly proud of both girls for living our school values of Grit, Respect, Kindness and Aspiration.”

Join in for James: a charity bike ride for kids with cancer

By Callum Ludwig

In memory of an active and adventurous Mt Evelyn boy, community members are called to take part a charity bike ride, Join in for James. James Granger was 16 when he died in February 2025 from complications related to cancer and a bone marrow transplant and the money raised from the ride will go to Challenge, a notfor-profit supporting kids with cancer.

James’ mother Saskia Granger said he spent his whole life in Mt Evelyn, was involved in local sporting clubs and teams and was always a positive, kind, thoughtful, adventurous, happy and easy-going kid.

“He loved camping with family and friends, playing guitar, travelling, the outdoors, mountain bike riding, clay target shooting, IT and aviation, he was focused on becoming a pilot and loved flying,” she said.

“His journey was unimaginably hard, having faced bone marrow failure, a bone marrow transplant, a secondary cancer and lung failure all within two and half years.

“Yet even in the most challenging and heartbreaking moments, James met each day with courage, humour, grace, kindness and the strongest will.”

James spent over 400 consecutive days in the Royal Children’s Hospital as a result of his illness.

Ms Granger said Join In for James was born from the deepest love, the deepest grief, and the gratitude they hold for those who walked along-

side James and our family through the darkest and most difficult days of his illness.

“During his long hospital stay, Challenge became a vital part of James’ world, they visited him almost daily, providing not only practical support but also genuine friendship and emotional care,” she said.

“James formed a beautiful bond with the Challenge team - one of laughter, friendship, support and joy, their support extended beyond James to our whole family, including James’ sister Chloe, wrapping us in compassion when we

needed it most.

“Challenge would bring James gaming consoles, board games or VR games to help break up his day, they would bring in the Essendon Football players to visit, and also Marc Pittonet from Carlton, Marc spent hours at James’ bedside just hanging out and playing cards.”

Challenge also organised for P!nk to visit the oncology ward during her last trip to Melbourne, and she spent an amazing amount of time with James and other children and families on the ward, singing for them and hearing their

stories.

Ms Granger said Challenge’s work was a chance for James to feel connected with people while he was in hospital, outside of the incredible doctor and nursing team that he spent 24/7 with, and it gave him something to look forward to.

“Days like that help to lift the spirits of everyone and give our kids memories they will always remember, James spent Christmas in hospital so on Christmas Eve the Challenge team bought James a new guitar that he’d been wanting and also gave our daughter an amazing Christmas gift too,” she said.

“That’s one of the most amazing things about Challenge; their work is inclusive of the whole family, they understand that childhood cancer affects the whole family and their support extends to brothers and sisters, mums and dads.

“That’s why we want to give back to them - so that other children and families can continue to feel the same support and care from Challenge that we did during such an unimaginably difficult and painful time.”

Another amazing opportunity Challenge helped facilitate for James was to help him achieve his dream of becoming a pilot, taking him to Jetstar’s training facility to fly Jetstar’s multi-million dollar flight simulator with their Chief Boeing Pilot, and a day both James and his family were always thankful to be able to see.

Ms Granger said before James became unwell, one of his greatest joys was riding his mountain bike with his mates.

2024-2025 Summer - Backyard Stone Fruit

Repower Festival returns

By Callum Ludwig

After a successful first edition in 2025, the Repower Festival is making a return in a new location this year, the Lilydale Civic Centre.

Combining family-friendly fun with an important initiative, the festival will be electric, both in entertainment and in informing attendees about the values of electrifying their lives.

President of the Repower the Dandenongs group Neil Evenden said the last one was fantastic and exceeded all of their expectations.

“We did it from a standing start, nothing had been done like this across the Dandenongs or Yarra Valley before, it was the biggest scale event on renewables and electrification that we knew of, so we were really pleased,” he said.

“Going into this year, we couldn’t use the same venue for a couple of reasons but we had enormous council support and one thing led to another and we decided to go with the Lillydale location.

“It’s a high-profile site with lots of passing traffic, it’s in a more densely populated area and it’s probably in an area that’s a little bit more conservative by nature as opposed to some of the pockets in the hills where the uptake of renewables is huge.”

Also supported by the Monbulk and District Community Opportunities Working Group (MADCOW), Healesville Community Renewable Energy (CoRE) and Yarra Ranges Council, the event aims to share the benefits of exploring electrification, improving the efficiency of your home to save money and learn about available government rebates.

Mr Evenden said their job is to try and demystify the renewable energy and electrification movement.

“We’re now seeing a massive uptake of renewables, more recently with home batteries and also electric vehicles taking off which is making our job a bit easier,” he said.

“But there’s still a lot of people in the community that are either very sceptical or they just don’t know where to start so the festival is designed to be a one-stop shop where people can come along and either learn a bit more if they know a bit or get started if they really don’t know where to start.

“There’s something to be learned no matter where you are on your journey…I’ve electrified my home but I haven’t put in a battery so now I want to know about batteries, there’s always more to learn, and that’s why we’ve assembled a good speaker program because these guys are experts but they’re practical as well, they know how to make these things happen.”

The event will include local vendors selling

solar, batteries, energy saving products and services, expert speakers, local community groups who are passionate about sustainability, entertainment and food in interactive activities, face painting, live music, free smoothies, examples of more sustainable transport like EVs and bikes and a schools showcase artwork competition.

Mr evenden said they think they had over 500 people come through the door last time and this year they’d like to get 1000 people.

“Talking about renewables and electrification to the general public can be really difficult, because a lot of people are just not interested, for the reasons I’ve mentioned before so to actually get people to come to an event that’s focused on

this sort of stuff is not easy at all,” he said.

“What we’ve done is try to make it as familyfriendly as we can, and we’ve thrown in a bunch of stuff that we think will make a good family day out in terms of entertainment, including interesting, interactive, challenging family activities for kids of primary and secondary age. “People have plenty of choices on a Sunday to do things to do, there’s no shortage of opportunities, we’re competing with families pretty tight on their time schedules so it’s not easy, but we think that if people make the effort, it’ll be worthwhile.”

The Repower Festival will be held on Sunday 22 March from 10am to 4pm at the Lilydale Civic Centre at 15 Anderson Street, Lilydale.

Pedalling for purpose: 2026 Eastern 80 kicks off

By Oliver Winn

Warburton woke early on Saturday 21 February for the 11th annual Eastern 80 charity bike ride.

A legion of enthusiastic riders embarked from the Cog Bikes and Brew Cafe at 7.30am where they pedalled for a purpose, raising funds for the Royal Children’s Hospital.

Eastern 80 organiser Norm Orr was proud to be hosting yet another year of the popular event as he cycled off for the big ride.

The ambassador for this year’s Eastern 80 was Warby Weapons Basketball Club president Deni Walker and she said it was an honour to be the face of the ride.

“That honour of being that person on the day to embody a story that people can directly tie a meaning to today’s achievements, I think it’s pretty special,” Ms Walker said.

Engaging in some friendly banter, Warburton Advancement League (WAL) president Jeff Gill said Mr Orr’s “disorganisation is a sight to behold”.

“I don’t know how it all comes together because it’s Rafferty’s Rules, but at the end of the day, usually about $8000 to $11,000 goes to the children’s hospital and everybody has a good

time,” Mr Gill said.

WAL vice president David Pratt’s words were a touch kinder as he praised Mr Orr’s proactive nature.

“There’s the saying that, if you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, then go down and turn the damn thing on yourself - and that’s what Norm does,” Mr Pratt said.

O’Shannassy Ward councillor Jim Child said the Eastern 80 contributed to a wider cause which benefited the whole of Victoria.

“When you think of the cause, the Royal Children’s Hospital and what that gives back, not only to our region, but the whole of Victoria, it’s just absolutely amazing,” Cr Child said

.Casey MP Aaron Violi said he enjoyed opening the event each year as it showed the best of the Warburton community.

“The money is important but the social aspect and knowing that people are looking after each other is very important in the walk or the ride as well,” Mr Violi said.

The event has come a long way since its inception in 2015 and has raised a whopping $115,000 over the past decade, helping fund the Royal Children’s Hospital to deliver crucial care.

CRANK UP Crank Up festival is back

By Oliver Winn

The popular Crank Up festival featuring all things mechanical and historical is set to return to Yarra Junction for 2026 after a successful event last year.

Hosted by the Upper Yarra Historical Society, the open green lawns next to the Upper Yarra Museum will be replaced with puffing steam engines, draught horses and woodchoppers in what will be a truly exciting weekend.

It takes place on Saturday and Sunday, 14 to 15 March, from 10am to 4pm each day.

Upper Yarra Historical Society president John Bramley said it would be a fun weekend for families, machinery enthusiasts and intrigued tourists alike.

“The whole thing will just be totally interesting - the venue is in a great spot, there’s a lot of interesting artefacts to see around here,” Mr Bramley said.

Mr Bramley’s claims are backed up - the event has run since 1978 and last year’s iteration coaxed crowds upwards of 2000 each day.

It’s an event well known to locals, but visitors from the inner suburbs too have a great time at the event, offering the perfect day-trip opportunity for those living closer to the state’s capital.

The event will take you back in time to a mechanical age where machinery made the world go round, with static and moving steam engines, steam trucks and live blacksmithing.

Meanwhile, draught horses will impress with their stature and strength.

Those who possess a bit of a competitive edge to them can take part in some of the games to be held at the festival.

Mr Bramley said one of the main attractions is the woodchop competition which takes place on Sunday.

next to the museum.

Live music from some talented bands will provide the soundtrack for the day

But this event isn’t just for machinery enthusiasts or guys who like to chop wood - a range of exciting activities for the children will be on offer too.

“There will be things for the kids, the jumping castle, what they call a hatchet throw, but it uses velcro.

“Tic-tac-toe, and the game where you throw rings over the spikes coming up,” Mr Bramley said.

“Plus we’ve got a lady here with native animals. The kids can be involved there.”

There’s no doubt that the sheer range of fun things to do will leave people hungry, so the Crank Up festival has a number of food stalls open to keep everyone fed.

For when the energy dies down, various locally based stall holders offer a chance to take a break from the fun and leisurely browse items on offer.

The Upper Yarra U3A, Grand Valley Spinners and Weavers and Yarra Valley Red Cross will all have stalls available on the day.

The Upper Yarra Historical Society doesn’t just put this event on for fun. Funds raised go directly towards the Upper Yarra Museum, which ensures the rich history of the Yarra Valley isn’t lost in the winds of time.

The funds ensure it can keep running by paying for essential operational costs.

The event is also funded by the Yarra Ranges Council and the Bendigo Community Bank.

On the Saturday, a tug of war competition will also take place, promising a fun and chaotic game for all who get involved.

Mr Excited’s Show and Shine classic car show always proves to be a hit too, and on Sunday visitors can expect 120 vintage cars to line the lawns

“But the main one to bring in the noise is when they… get the chainsaws going in the wood chop area.”

“The car show was run by Glenn Higginson, otherwise known as Mr Excited. So there’s all types of show vehicles that come and they give out trophies for different classes of vehicles.”

“There’s some hot rods and other classic cars, all really well done up,” Mr Bramley said.

The Crank Up festival has been running for 35 years now, only stopping for Covid-19 lockdowns, yet it shows no signs of cranking down.

Tickets are priced at $15 for adults and $10 for concession card holders, while children under 15 are free.

BECAUSE OUR WATER STORAGES ARE DROPPING

With drier seasons and growing towns, Victoria’s water supply is under pressure. This summer make every drop count.

A more sustainable Bali

By Kylie Mitchell-Smith TRAVEL WRITER/PODCASTER www.travellingsenorita.com

BALI has always been a popular ‘go to’ destination for antipodeans, and more recently the World.

Tourists are now travelling far and wide for some of that island magic.

The island is steeped in tradition with a large Hindu population, who are some of the kindest, most patient people on the planet-where nothing (like two-hour traffic jams) is too much trouble.

It is home to more than four million people, the main industry is tourism, followed closely by manufacturing and trade exporting.

Bali is also a popular destination for entrepreneurs and expats to call home- naturally beautiful with vibrant beach clubs and a burgeoning food scene that spans Uluwatu to Cangguu.

But with the tourist trade and population growing rapidly the need for a sustainable tourism model is imperative-for the local people and the natural environment.

Finns Beach Club-a mega beachfront club with pools, restaurants, dancefloors and roaming performers-is one business taking its responsibility for keeping the beaches clean, seriously.

From launching a solar powered rubbish collecting beach robot, to funding the first air and sea rescue helicopter to sponsoring Stella’s Childan organisation that educates and integrates Balinese youth into businesses.

Just up the road Potato Head is following suit, with circular creations, turning rubbish into usable art.

Bali-owned and operated, Ini Vie Hospitality group employs local people, preserves the natural environment and upholds the islands cultural traditions. From the intimate garden villas at Monolocale to the luxurious, local design of Sini Vie Seminyak to the thriving gardens (and monkeys) of Kamala Ubud-with newly opened Habitat Bistro, a showcase of the surrounding food bowl.

Catch a ferry from Padang Bai on the mainland to Gili Air, for an authentic and serene island experience.

There’s an array of accommodation options from Captain Coconuts- traditional Javanese rooms and bamboo lodges-to Santorini a newly opened beachfront hotel and Greek restaurant. The remote island has grown in popularity, but no cars or motorbikes are allowed, and there’s a waste management program to deal with the Islands rubbish.

Back on the mainland visit the latest foodie

destination, Uluwtatu- known for its epic surf, clifftop abodes and supersized beach clubsthere’s an expat scene driving a culinary change.

‘Artisan’ is a Bali born brunch café that has industrial styled venues with a touch of the tropics-serving quality local coffee, baked bread and fresh garden salads.

Up the street is Papi Sapi, all about fire and flavour, pairing high quality meats and seafood with bold sauces in a laid-back setting. Across the road is Kala, a stylish dining experience inspired by the Mediterranean- smells of sizzling haloumi and lamb kofta waft out of the open plan kitchen.

There’s a buzz about Uluwata, although it’s changing rapidly, there’s a sense of community where innovation and design are considered.

Lyvin Melasti Villas, a sanctuary set high above Melasti Beach, is a property that flows seamlessly with nature. Stay tuned for the opening of their signature restaurant and spa later this year.

Head into the hills of Ubud, to Syrco Base by talented Chef Syrco Bakker. A culinary destination, with a regenerative garden, cooking workshop space, contemporary dining and artisan shop- showcasing local talent. Syrco Base is the future of food in Bali, nurturing young talent and community-a place that invites you to eat and live more consciously.

Local organisations such as Sungaiwatch are

on a mission to stop plastic going into the ocean and river inlets. They actively remove rubbish built up on the land that ends up blocking the waterways, leaving lasting impacts on the environment particularly in the wet season.

A more sustainable Bali starts with the locals and ends with the tourists, it’s up to us to respect the deep history of the island and leave a light travel footprint. Bali is one of the world’s treasures, a wellness destination that’s blessed with kind people-treat her well.

EATSyrco Base, Ubud Kala, Uluwata Santorini, Gili Air Bar Vera, Canggu

PLAY-

Finns Beach Club

Tropical Tempataion Beach Club Gili Air

STAYSantorini, Gili Air

Monolocale Resort, Seminyak

Lyvin Melasti Villas, Bukit Kaamala Resort, Ubud

A day at the edge of the world

At 8am, you begin your day in Restaurant Aune, coffee in hand as Antarctica drifts past the panoramic windows. Icebergs glow in soft blues and silvers. The sea is calm, almost glass-like. There are no roads, no permanent settlements, just towering glaciers, sculpted snow and a silence that feels profound.

This is the Seventh Continent, and with HX Expeditions, it becomes deeply personal.

By 9am, you are stepping into a kayak in Orne Harbour, paddling through ice-studded water so clear it feels surreal. A seal surfaces nearby. The only sounds are your paddle cutting through the sea and the distant crack of shifting ice. HX has been taking travellers to the polar regions since 1896. Today, more guests explore Antarctica and the Arctic with HX than any other operator. In a

destination this remote, experience counts.

By midday, you join the ship’s ornithologist for a talk on the evolutionary history of penguins. Later, you stand just metres from chinstrap penguins as they shuffle across the snow and dive effortlessly into the water. Sea ice permitting, your voyage may weave among the vast icebergs of the Antarctic Sound or through the wildlife-rich waters of the Gerlache Strait, where whales breach against a dramatic frozen backdrop.

At 1pm, you return to the ship for a relaxed lunch, sharing stories from the morning’s adventures. By 3pm, you are back out on the water in a small expedition boat, cruising past sculpted ice formations and watching for seals hauled out on floating floes. Landings are carefully managed in line with IAATO guidelines, ensuring wildlife wel-

fare and environmental protection remain a priority. Guests rotate in groups, creating intimate and respectful encounters.

At 5pm, curiosity draws you to the Science Centre. Here, you examine plankton samples collected earlier in the day, discovering the microscopic life that supports this vast ecosystem. On board HX’s hybrid-powered ships, including MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen, guests can unwind in the sauna, take a dip in the pool, visit the gym, relax in the explorer lounge or dine across three restaurants, all while attending enriching lectures in the dedicated hall. The result is a seamless blend of adventure, comfort and sustainability.

By 6pm, dinner is served as the long Antarctic light streams through expansive windows. Con-

versations flow easily as guests reflect on the day’s discoveries. At 8pm, you gather in the lecture hall for the evening briefing, learning what conditions may allow tomorrow. Perhaps a new landing site, a hike across untouched snow or even the chance to camp overnight on the ice.

In Antarctica, each day unfolds differently, shaped by weather, wildlife and opportunity. The result is a journey that feels spontaneous and immersive.

With HX Expeditions, you do not simply see Antarctica. You engage with it, understand it and experience it hour by hour in one of the last true wildernesses on Earth.

Discover more by contacting Exclusively Cruising on 03 9762 2799 or visit www.exclusivelycruising.com.au

3

3

1

PARIS TO THE SWISS ALPS

Paris to Zurich or vice versa

Explore Roman Trier and taste Moselle Rieslings in Bernkastel-Kues. Sail past Sankt Goar and the Lorelei Rock. Visit fascinating Worms and historic Heidelberg.

12 DAYS • 4 COUNTRIES • 10 GUIDED TOURS

• JUN, JUL, AUG-NOV 2026; MAR-NOV 2027; 2028

From $6,895pp in Standard Stateroom

From $8,495pp in Veranda Stateroom

CITIES OF LIGHT

Paris to Prague or vice versa

Sail Europe’s most iconic rivers: the Main, lined with quaint villages; the castle-studded Rhine; and the Moselle with its steep vineyards.

12 DAYS • 4 COUNTRIES • 10 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • APR-NOV 2026; MAR-NOV 2027; 2028

From $6,995pp in Standard Stateroom From $8,795pp in Veranda Stateroom

RHINE GETAWAY

Amsterdam to Basel or vice versa

Explore one of Europe’s best-loved rivers. Discover the turreted fortresses, grand cathedrals, historic cities, medieval towns and stunning scenery of the Middle Rhine.

8 DAYS • 4 COUNTRIES • 6 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • JUN-NOV 2026; MAR-NOV 2027; 2028

From $5,495pp in Standard Stateroom From $6,695pp in Veranda Stateroom

Sharon off to next chapter

By Gabriella Vukman

After more than four decades among the shelves, story mats and school holiday craft tables, Yarra Ranges local Sharon Waller is closing the book on her library career.

But not before leaving an indelible mark on generations of local families.

Ms Waller’s 42-and-a-half year journey with the libraries of the Yarra Ranges and Maroondah shires came to an end in late December when she decided to retire.

“I never thought I would work in a library, but I am so glad that I have,” Ms Waller said.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it,” she said.

Ms Waller’s pathway into her library career came somewhat unexpectedly.

“I left school when I was in Year 11 and didn’t really know what I wanted to do,” Ms Waller said.

“A job came up at the old Ringwood Library which used to be along Warrandyte Road, and I applied for it, and got it,” she said.

“That’s where I originally started.”

What began almost by accident became a lifelong vocation.

Over the decades, Sharon worked across multiple branches including Ringwood, Croydon, Healesville and Lilydale, taking on a variety of roles, but it was children’s services that truly captured her heart.

“My favorite part of working in the library sector has been doing the Children’s programs,” Ms Waller said.

“It can be very time consuming and quite tiring, but it is lots of fun working with all the different families,” she said.

Ms Waller’s work in children’s programming included running four storytimes per week, from the baby sessions and toddler story times for ages one to three, to family story times for ages naught to six.

“The children’s sessions involve lots of planning, and lots of outreach,” Ms Waller said.

“We visit lots of schools and kinders, and we also do lots of maternal health groups, letting them know about the library and what we can offer,” she said.

“So lots of promoting literacy within the community and also organising lots of school holiday

programmes. It can be very busy.”

Beyond the busy schedule and careful planning, it was the building of relationships that meant the most to Ms Waller.

“I think the nicest thing is really that you get to know lots of the families, which is great, and you get to see lots of the children growing up, which is just really lovely,” Ms Waller said.

“It’s really lovely seeing them start out in our baby sessions and then working their way through, then going off to school and coming back and doing holiday programmes,” she said.

“It’s just wonderful seeing kids grow up.”

From promoting literacy to providing a safe place to hang, Ms Waller was keen to challenge outdated perceptions of libraries.

“Libraries really are wonderful places and they are not like what they used to be, and what people think they are,” Ms Waller said.

“People still think they are very old-fashioned and that you have to be quiet and everything, but now in our libraries, you really don’t,” she said.

“Our children’s programmes and our adult programmes are all free, so really, the idea is to

hopefully get more people to come and use our services.”

One of Ms Waller’s many highlights includes a library-run comic-con event where the branch was turned into a vibrant celebration of pop culture.

Ms Waller described staff and visitors of all ages dressing up as their favourite characters for the event.

“It was lots of fun. We had lots of fantastic activities going on for people of all ages,” Ms Waller said.

“We all got to dress up and I made myself a Sherlock Holmes outfit, so I was a detective, which was lots of fun,” she said.

Her love of craft and expertise in sewing became a part of her everyday work.

“One of the things that I’ve really enjoyed doing has been making lots of finger puppets and costumes for library events,” Ms Waller said.

“I have given most of them to other people within the council to use and there is quite a lot of stuff I’ve left behind, so that’s good,” she said.

“It’s nice that I’ve left a little legacy that other

Library legend Judy booked for retirement

By Gabriella Vukman

After 36 years of service across the Yarra Ranges region’s libraries, Judy is finishing a treasured chapter in a career defined by community connection, leadership and a deep belief in free access to knowledge.

A Yarra Ranges resident, Judy has characterised her decades in public libraries as a rewarding experience and said, “This line of work gives you an opportunity to really help the community.”

“I really love the idea of a free service which the library has pretty much always been,” Judy said.

“It allows that diversity for the community and I really love that aspect.”

Judy’s career began with the former Liddell Library Service, which later became Eastern Regional Libraries before rebranding to what is now known as Your Libraries.

Across those 36 years, Judy built a varied and dynamic career.

“I’ve been with this same library service for 36 years and I’ve worked in over 13 libraries between having my children,” Judy said.

“My work ranged from customer service officer right through to youth services librarian, right through to adult learners,” she said.

She later stepped into leadership roles, including opening a brand-new branch.

“I was given a position at Bayswater Library, which was a library that was opened in the Knox City Council area,” Judy said.

“I opened that library as a team leader,” Judy said.

Judy also spent several years as team leader at Yarra Junction Library, where she was deeply embedded in the local community.

Throughout her career, it was the service aspect of libraries that meant the most to Judy,

Judy’s contribution to the libraries of the region, was celebrated by her library family at her farewell dinner in December. (Supplied)

and working with people was one of Judy’s many major highlights whilst working for the library service.

Judy said, “I loved providing the reader services and asking customers, ‘What have you read?’, and answering the question ‘What is a great book to read?’”

“I loved that the service was free.”

During COVID lockdowns, Judy saw firsthand how essential library services could be.

“I loved researching for people, especially during COVID when everyone was quite isolated,” Judy said.

“We were able to supply a courier programme where we sent books out to people

people can use.”

Now, as she approaches her 60th birthday, Ms Waller feels ready for a new chapter.

“I turn 60 next week and I think I was ready to step down,” Ms Waller said.

“I felt like it was time to pass on the baton to someone younger.”

Health has also played a role in Ms Waller’s decision.

“Unfortunately, both my knees I’ve had a few issues with. So since I’ve retired, I’ve already booked in to go and have a new knee, getting a new knee put in in a few months’ time,” Ms Waller said.

Retirement won’t mean slowing down for long. Between recovery and travel plans, Sharon already has plenty ahead of her.

“I have got to get over my knee operation, but once I have done that I am hoping to do some travelling later in the year with my husband,” Ms Waller said.

“We’re hoping to go to Europe,” she said.

With a fully established craft room and plenty of time, Ms Waller is looking forward to working a needle and thread.

“I’ve got lots of craft projects to go on,” Ms Waller said.

“I certainly will be busy.”

From starting out as a shelver in Ringwood Library 42 years ago, to working as a Library and Children’s officer, Ms Waller has left behind more than 42 years of service.

She has left behind a legacy of literacy, laughter and community connection.

through Australia Post,” she said.

“That reader service development was particularly wonderful as it allowed us the ability to talk to people and also to deliver a service outside the library.”

Watching technology and the library sector environment change with the times, was also another of Judy’s fond experiences.

“The changes in technology over the years really gave me more knowledge, but it also gave me the ability to teach others,” Judy said.

Judy first joined the Lilydale branch after returning from South Australia.

“I had travelled to South Australia with my husband and had been there for two years and had some background in working in libraries down there,” Judy said.

“I came back to Victoria with a fair amount of public library service and I knew public libraries were where I wanted to be so I applied at Lillydale and was lucky enough to get the job,” she said.

Reflecting on retirement, Judy admitted it still feels a little surreal.

“Sometimes I feel like I’m still on holidays because I retired over the Christmas break,” Judy said.

“But I really do think it’s a great time to retire and have time to read those 36 years of books that I haven’t read,” she said.

“I’m really enjoying having flexibility rather than having to go off to work.”

Judy’s decision to retire followed a period of illness, but she was determined to finish on her own terms.

“I really didn’t want to leave my position being ailed or sick. I wanted to finish the job the way I wanted to finish it,” Judy said.

She transitioned to part-time work and returned to the circulation desk where her career

had begun.

“I got to finish my time in a job that I really loved, right where I started,” Judy said.

As she steps into retirement, Judy is passionate about the enduring value of public libraries.

“The opportunity to make all services fair to the community is such an important thing,” Judy said.

“The government needs to be a lot more aware of supporting free services because they are becoming less and less available,” she said.

From physical facilities that provide a place for people to go, to online resources and technology courses, Judy emphasised just how wide a variety of services libraries can offer.

“We still have libraries that are free and have free services for everybody and we need to use them,” Judy said.

For Judy, libraries are more than buildings filled with books.

“It’s a space for people who are living in situations that may not be great,” Judy said.

“The library gives them the opportunity to come in and to be involved in events and programmes and not feel ostracised,” she said.

Looking back, Judy is happy with her library sector career choice.

“It has been a great career because I’ve been able to move around the region and meet some amazing people along the way too, which has really been really great,” Judy said.

Insisting that her work family at the libraries of the Yarra Ranges, Cardinia, and Knox shires will see her when she pops in to borrow a book every now and then, Judy added that she will miss working regularly with her colleagues.

As she turns the page to retirement, Judy does so knowing she has helped write an important chapter in the Yarra Ranges region’s library story.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Nominations for Zine Club

By Gabriella Vukman

A local duo have been nominated for several awards after starting a youth zine-making club that is part art attack, part social revolution, and part wholesome community chaos.

From hot takes on music and revolution, to deep dives into invasive species and biodiversity, Double Dare Ya Zine is less cute craft circle and more DIY think tank with glue sticks.

Designed to elevate the voices of local youth, alongside tackling an array of social and political issues, the Double Dare Ya Zine Club was created by Full-time university students and Yarra Ranges residents Jacinta Carter and Olly Nielsen in 2024.

“After finishing high school, we realised that it was really, really hard for us to connect with our friends outside of a high school setting,” CoFounder of Double Dare Ya Zine Club and Chum Creek resident Olly said.

“Generally, we felt very disconnected from a lot of our peers because there were just no spaces readily available in the Yarra Valley for young people like us to come together and connect and make bonds with one another.”

“We thought that was really terrible because community is such an important part of a young person’s upbringing,” Olly said.

Jacinta and Olly were nominated for The 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards, which acknowledge, encourage and promote the positive achievements of all young people in Victoria, alongside the Community Bank Doncaster East & Templestowe Village, Bendigo Bank Connecting Communities Award, and the Victorian Government Group Achievement in the Community Award.

“The nominations came from nowhere. They were such a surprise, but we are very honoured,” Olly said.

“It’s incredible to be recognised for our work, and I’m very glad that other people have looked at what we’re doing and agree that we are bringing a community together.”

Together, Olly and Jacinta decided to create an arena where people could come together and talk about anything and everything.

“We wanted to create an open space where people can feel safe and happy and connect with other people their age who have similar opinions or just similar lives to them,” Olly said.

Each session runs for three hours and is dedicated to a specific topic.

The purpose of the monthly Zine sessions is to compile and disseminate all of the information that was shared during each session to people outside of the Zine-making group.

All materials needed for zine-making are supplied by the group, including pens, paper, pencils, texters, glue sticks, scissors and old magazines.

“We are working on having professional speakers who are passionate about the subjects come to each session,” Olly said.

“Each session, we have conversations about the topics, and we provide a bunch of recycled and donated resources and present them to everyone who attends.”

“They have the opportunity to make pages based on the information they have received and taken on throughout the conversations. It can be about anything that they connected with or feel important for them to share with people outside of the group,” Olly said.

The community Zine sessions take at the Lilydale Library on the first Wednesday of every month from 4pm to 7pm.

Jacinta said, “ We always encourage people they don’t need to stay for the entire time, if you can come for just one hour, that is totally fine.”

“Sometimes people work on one page between them, and other times people work on one or two pages,” she said.

“Each page is unique and beautiful in its own way, but all of them are connected by the topic of the month.”

Jacinta and Olly collect the pages at the end of each session and format them into the Zine.

Co-founder of Double Dare Ya Zine Club and Yarra Junction resident Jacinta said, “We do a lot of scanning and then we send it all to the council and the youth team prints the zines for us and

then we staple them all together and have them available fo people to take home at the next session.”

“We also pop them up on our website, so you can view them on our website and you can print them yourself on our website.”

While the sessions are aimed primarily at youth, all are welcome to take part.

The idea to create the Double Dare Ya Zine Club was sparked by Jacinta’s experience participating in a Melbourne-based Zine club.

“I had been part of some zine club stuff in the city and had done a few collaborative zine making sessions that I organised with my friends and I really loved doing them,” Jacinta said.

“The city is just really far away, and Olly messaged me one day saying that she wanted to start a local zine club and immediately I was like ‘Yes I’d love to’!”

“We decided we wanted it to actually make a difference in the world and in people’s lives by educating them on new things, and providing them an opportunity to learn from special people about various topics,” Jacinta said.

Along with securing expert speakers for each session’s topics, a major goal for the zine club is growth.

“We have certainly grown since our first session, because now we have 10 to 15 people who are coming regularly,” Jacinta said.

“We do have a really solid group of people who are loving what we do, and who are bringing their friends, but we really do want to see more new faces,” she said.

“We are also interested in having some stalls at markets to get our zines to more people, because we think they are really cool and more people should see them, and then more people might want to join our group.”

When it comes to being nominated, Jacinta and Olly both noted they were taken by complete surprise.

“It is really exciting to know that these people somehow know we exist and they like what we ar doing and then have our nomination submitted as part of other nominations,” Jacinta said.

“It makes it feel like we are doing something good, and that people care about what we are doing,” she said.

“We’ve kind of become an important part of people’s lives and the community, so I think our nominations are because of how we are bringing people together, especially young people and giving them a way to make friends.”

From having no one turn up at their first session, to balancing full-time uni between them, the road to starting a zine club has not been without its occasional bumps for Jacinta and Olly.

“We have definitely had out challenges along the way,” Jacinta said.

“We did struggle at the beginning to balance everything as we were originally doing the Zine

Club every second week but it was just too much for us to keep up with, with everything else in life” Jacinta said.

“We both work multiple part-time jobs and are studying full-time, so it is a lot to balance.”

As part of the prizes for their nominations, Olly and Jacinta will attend a celebratory dinner, receive coaching for their club, lockdown a television promotion on Seven Network and hopefully attain some future funding.

Jacinta and Olly invite anyone from the local community who is keen on Zine-making to join in on March’s upcoming ‘Good Neighbour Month’ session.

The session will be heald at the

tion Primary School instead of the Lilydale Library on 4 March.

Expert advice, top service

Right in the heart of Lilydale, Treadworx is a proudly family-owned business that’s been keeping locals rolling for more than seven years. Known for friendly service and genuine expertise, the team at Treadworx specialises in 4x4 vehicles, as well as everything from everyday cars to wheelbarrows! With an extensive selection of tyres from trusted brands like Maxxis, Yokohama, Falken, Kumho and more, Treadworx has the perfect option for every vehicle — whether you’re after durability, high performance, or a balance of both. Their wheel collection is equally impressive, featuring favourites such as ROH, PDW, Lenso, Extreme 4x4, Dynamic, Sniper, and many others, ensuring your ride combines both style and strength.

As an authorised Fulcrum Suspensions and Tough Dog Suspension dealer, Treadworx also offers a complete range of suspension upgrades and products, expertly fitted to suit your driving needs, especially for off-road adventures.

Owner Nathan Hawkless sums it up best:

“With over 25 years of experience and a knowledgeable team, we’re committed to

providing top-quality products and honest service at competitive prices.”

For expert advice, reliable service, and a team that truly cares, Treadworx Lilydale is your local destination. Drop by and see why so many drivers, especially 4x4 enthusiasts, trust them for tyres, wheels, and suspension.

NEWS Belgrave Survival Day

By Tanya Steele

Celebrating strength, culture and more, the our First Nations people celebrated with dance, song, art, food, yarns and more over the weekend.

Saturday afternoon saw community from the Yarra Ranges and beyond gather in the dappled sunshine of Bothwick Park in Belgrave for Belgrave Survival Day 2026.

After a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony with Senior Wurundjeri Elder Aunty Joy Murphy Wandin AO, the afternoon kicked off in earnest.

Djirri Djirri dancers took the crowd through a beautiful dance performance, then invited kids and people up to learn themselves, with a huge group stepping up to have a go.

The day wound on with panel discussions and a special performance from the Elder’s Choir Yeng Gali.

Originally held on 26 January in 2008, Belgrave Survival Day has evolved to its current date and time in February, with the event now held in later afternoon.

Kids played in the park, people lounged on picnic rugs and others danced while stalls served up delicious foods and BSD volunteers roamed and kept things flowing.

Crowds got to enjoy the huge talents of Kiwat Kennell, a proud Torres Strait Islander musician and Mutthi Mutthi, Nari Nari and Yorta Yorta songman Uncle Kutcha Edwards on stage, with Uncle joking he was off to get some barramundi and chips from the food vendors after the show.

MC Shawn Andrews kept the crowd entertained between sets, delivering jokes, stories and more.

The free and all ages community event was coordinated by the Belgrave Survival Day Committee and was presented in partnership with Burrinja Cultural Centre, Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place and Yarra Ranges Council, with the 3MDR team broadcasting live to 97.1FM.

Back in time to yesteryear: Draught Horse festival a hit

By Oliver Winn

The green lawns of Mont De Lancey were filled with relics of the past for the Wandin Draught Horse and Yesteryear Festival on 21 and 22 February.

Hosted by the Yarra Valley Machinery Preservation Society (YVMPS), the event marked its 14th year anniversary and it shows no sign of slowing down.

YVMPS promotions officer Phil Beveridge said the conditions couldn’t have been better.

“We’ve had a great turnout today, we’ve had a lot of crowd through the gate, so everyone seems to be having a good time,” Mr Beveridge said.

The air smelt of fuel and various stationary engines rumbled as they putted away on the grass.

Meanwhile, the blacksmith’s building emit-

COMMUNITY DIARY

World Day of Prayer

You are invited to a service at St Margaret’s Uniting Church, 219 Hull Road Mooroolbark , on Friday March 6.

The service starts at 10:30 and lasts about an hour. It will be followed by morning tea.

The World Day of Prayer is a global ecumenical movement led by Christian women who welcome you to join in prayer and action for peace and justice. The focus country this year is Nigeria. There will be an offering in support of a Bible Society project in Nigeria.

Stuart Reserve renewal

Yarra Ranges Council is developing a draft concept design for a renewed playspace at Stuart Reserve, Lilydale and would like residents’ feedback. This reserve is near the corner of Stuart and Albert Hill Roads, Lilydale.

ted the rhythmic clanging of metal and the hubbub of conversation from fascinated onlookers.

The event was sponsored by Community Bank Wandin-Seville, the Yarra Ranges Council, Fern Earthmoving and Casey Junior Trucking.

It was the perfect family day out as plenty of parents could be seen with children at their heels - if they weren’t already bouncing on the jumping castle.

Inside Mont De Lancey, the quilt makers showcased their work, with the Hoddles Creekbased Quilts for Orphans (QFO) organisation selling fabric hugs for children and adults in need.

QFO secretary Deb Woodward said it had been an awesome day so far.

“We complement their event for the Draught Horse Festival, and it’s a great fundraising opportunity for us to be here in the gallery.”

This playspace is identified in the Playspace Plan 2019-2029 for renewal. As a local-level playspace, it will not include any large infrastructure such as shelters, toilets and barbeques or additional sealed paths.

Yarra Ranges Council want to understand how you currently use the space and how you would like to see it developed as a valued place for the community.

Once the feedback has been collected, they will develop a draft concept design for further engagement.

Mooroolbark’s Shop 16 temporarily closed

On Thursday 12 February, Mooroolbark Shop 16 and its volunteers made the decision to temporarily close Shop 16 and pause all programs for two weeks.

This included the Pantry, Free Library, Carers Art Group, Community Cuppa and the Shop 16 Food Relief program.

If you need assistance finding a replacement pantry or food relief, please go to askizzy.org.au/ food-info.

Revitalisation for former college site

The former Yarra Hills Secondary College site at 150 Cambridge Road will soon have new paths and landscaping with works expected to be completed mid-year.

Council will establish a pathway network around the site, improve drainage, establish garden beds and areas for tree planting, with works also taking place to renew the front fencing to the site.

In 2022, council purchased the former school site from the State Government, following community feedback about protecting the land from development.

Following the purchase, council created a 10-to-15-year Master Plan for the site using community ideas and feedback.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Richard Higgins, said that the next phase of first minor works in the Master Plan would shortly get underway, to make the area more usable for community.

The Master Plan, which outlines projects that council will seek funding for, included ideas for nature play, activity areas, picnic shelter, public toilet and garden features.

These projects will be prioritised by council, depending on budget and funding opportunities from the State and Federal Governments, in future years.

Think of the children

Children are human beings to whom respect is due, superior to us by reason of their innocence and of the greater possibilities of their future - Maria Montessori.

The plight of a group of Australian women with young children trapped in the horrors of the Al Roz camp in Northern Syria and desperately wishing to return to Australia has come up against the political realities being played out domestically.

These women who joined or lived under the so called Islamic State were hardly more than children themselves when sometimes tricked or coerced into marriages.

Poet Warsan Shire offers a counter narrative to the idea of choice for young women drawn into conflict:

They asked her how did you get here and she said, I walked.

After the group’s territorial defeat in places like Syria and Iraq, thousands of women and children ended up in detention camps such as Al-Hol and Al Roj.

In Refugee Blues, W.H. Auden indicts indicts nations that claim humanitarian values but enforce exclusionary borders.

The violence does not end when the war does—it continues bureaucratically:

There’s no place for us, my dear, yet there’s no place to go.

These are places where the unforgiving landscape is chaotic and dangerous and where more disorder is edging closer to the camp where the women and children are living.

All 34 of them are Australian citizens and, with the exception of one woman, now prevented by a temporary exclusion order from returning, are entitled by law to come home.

This means they can request passports – passports that, very recently, after years of obfuscation and excuses, the government has finally issued to them.

However, the Prime Minister has made it clear that beyond this there will be no further assistance from the Australian Government to bring the women and their children safely home.

Strangely his initial seemingly heartless response was to invoke an idiom his mother would have used: “You made your bed and now you have to lie in it”, meaning you have to live with the consequences of your actions.

But as pointed out often these women had little agency in what happened to them.

And perhaps his mother would have reminded him also that in the New Testament there are seven references where Jesus advocates for protecting children.

As well under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, children cannot be punished for the crimes or choices of their parents.

Every child has the right to nationality and the best interests of the child must guide decisions.

Many of the children, most of them very

surveillance.

Directed by Ric Roman Waugh, Shelter follows former government assassin Michael Mason (Statham), who must go on the run from his island hideout and protect a young girl named Jessie (Bodhi Rae Breatnach).

While gruff as ever, Statham delivers an unusually tender performance, and Mason and Jessie’s growing bond keeps you invested between the action scenes, which are a mixed bag. There

WOORILLA WORDS

young, were born there, and none are responsible for the circumstances they’re in.

What people have also forgotten is that since the ISIS group was toppled in 2019 we have conducted two successful repatriations.

The Morrison government brought back eight orphaned children in June 2019, while the Albanese government repatriated four women and 13 children in October 2022.

Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil was then proud of what they had done:

“The question for us is: is the safest thing for these 13 children to grow up in a squalid camp where they are subjected to radical ideologies every single day and then return to Australia at some point when they’re an adult? Or is it safer for us to bring them here so they can live a life around Australian values?”

Indeed that is the view of many experts who argue that leaving children in unstable camps may increase long-term security risks, whereas structured repatriation, monitoring, trauma care, and reintegration programs reduce them.

And again, in June last year two women and four children paid people smugglers to get them out of al-Hawl camp – a sprawling, lawless and more radical camp than Al Roj.

The six Australian citizens were smuggled over the Lebanese border, arrested, imprisoned and then taken to their embassy in Beirut.

There the government issued them passports and they returned to Australia.

The then Opposition Leader, Sussan Ley lost no time in lashing out and describing the women and children as “a highly dangerous cohort of individuals” and accused the government of a dereliction of duty

So why the hard line response we are now witnessing from our PM?

Undoubtedly he is navigating tricky political headwinds from a new opposition flexing its political muscles and aware of the still unsettled post Bondi community, fearful of any similar tragedy occurring.

Add to that the resurgence of anti Muslim rhetoric and talk of the need to adhere to Judeo Christian values from a former prime minister and others, and humanitarian considerations sadly take a back seat to political pressures.

But distance cannot be an excuse for inaction and surely compassion and forgiveness are tenets

Give AI no mercy or shelter...

are some cool fights, including a pretty awesome final fight on a pier, but the second act car chase is flat and the third act nightclub scuffle is an inferior knockoff of the nightclub shootout in John Wick. Bryan Vigier is relentlessly intimidating as Workman, the assassin hunting Mason and Jessie, but Bill Nighy is wasted as the main villain Manafort, and his past with Mason is generic white noise.

In Mercy, directed by Timur Bekbambeketov, AIs preside over serious crimes in a near-future Los Angeles. Detective Chris Raven (Pratt) is framed for his wife’s murder and has ninety minutes to prove his innocence or be executed.

Mercy moves at a swift pace and is never boring, and employs a fixed computer-screen perspective (a style known as “screenlife”) in a more energetic, visually interesting way than last year’s disastrous War Of The Worlds (which Bekbambeketov produced). Pratt is functional and unmemorable as Detective Raven, but Rebecca Ferguson is fun as Lennox, a coldly courteous AI judge with more depth (and sass) than first appearances. The unfolding mystery is convoluted and hard to follow, and while Raven’s heavy burden of proof and the countdown to his execution

of the Judeo Christian value system we laud.

That does not mean ignoring security concerns — but it does mean that after appropriate assessments by our security agencies responses should focus on rehabilitation, education, reintegration.

The US, Germany, Kazakhstan and Russia have repatriated significant numbers of women and children.

Mothers faced persecution where evidence existed but rehabilitation and monitoring programs were put in place.

Children received reintegration support and counselling Countries that initially resisted like France, Netherlands and Sweden later joined.

There are many hard decisions that need to be made when you are PM, some deeply difficult, ethical and humanitarian and sometimes courage is needed to show the way for others how to achieve a just result.

And turning children away is a moral action, not a neutral one. Silence, delay, and refusal are actions with consequences.

In The Lost Arabs Australian poet and novelist Omar Sakr frequently writes about repatriating Australians from conflict zones including women and children held in Syria: We are citizens until we are inconvenient.

Perhaps that’s the problem for the Prime Minister at the moment, as he chooses the path where he believes most political and public sentiment lies and which will do least political damage. But in following this path the government has abandoned 34 Australian women and children to fend for themselves in an environment so unpredictable that no one knows what can happen next.

form a suspenseful throughline and build to an exciting siege-standoff climax, the instigating incident of Raven’s wife’s murder fades into the background.

Both Mercy and Shelter feature a far-reaching intelligence system targeting an innocent man: the Mercy AI justice system Raven once championed, and the THIA system Manafort established.

Shelter’s narrative frames THIA, which constantly monitors the British public without a warrant or reasonable suspicion, as dark and immoral, but THIA becomes an incidental framing-device and remains active by the end of the film.

Shelter’s main moral conflict and Manafort’s vendetta against Mason have nothing to do with THIA, and instead concern getting Jessie to safety and Mason’s past refusal to kill an innocent on Manafort’s orders.

Shelter is largely nonplussed about invasive surveillance, but Mercy is far worse.

As Chris gathers information from public and private feeds (including his daughter’s secret Instagram, and even a neighbour’s bird-feeder camera) and sends a militarised police squad to

chase down a suspect based on a hunch, the film uncritically presents omnipresent data-gathering and brutal enforcement as beneficial.

After Chris uncovers evidence that exonerates a prior victim of the Mercy program, which Chris’s colleague Jaq (Kali Reis) covered up to prove Mercy’s efficacy, Chris tells the Lennox AI that they both did ‘what we’re programmed to do.’

This implies that impersonal AI justice and an aggressive, intrusive surveillance state are acceptable as long as they catch the right people, which is an abhorrent conclusion.

Shelter, a middling Jason Statham movie (The Beekeeper from 2024 had far better action) bolstered by a touching core relationship, takes a frustratingly indifferent approach to its surveillance motif, but Mercy is a technically slick but ethically monstrous thriller that outright endorses AI and inescapable surveillance.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

Kemp’s Curtain Call

Kemp’s curtain call

Eltham Little Theatre

The VDL One Act Play

Eltham Little Theatre is proud to host The Victorian Drama League’s One Act Play Festival which will be a mixture of short and one act plays and is open to individuals or theatre companies to enter.

Applications close Monday 8 June 2026.

Session times are limited so early applications are recommended.

Length of Productions.

Sort plays – 10 minutes up to a maximum of 15 minutes.

One Act Plays – 18 minutes up to a maximum of 40 minutes.

No monologues.

Session start and finish times to confirmed once program is finalised.

Mailing address is Eltham Little Theatre. PO Box 114.

Eltham Vic 3095. phone 0411 713 095.

Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre.

The Games Afoot.

Let’s set the scene: December 1936 in Conneaut, USA, in the Gilette castle where the revelry turns sour.

The Games Afoot is a comedic whodunnit set at Christmas time 1936, where the famous Broadway star, William Gillette, invites his cast of actors for dinner at his Connecticut castle, only for a murder to occur.

Gillette quickly channels his most famous detective person (Sherlock Holmes) to find the killer before another victim falls prey.

It’s fast-paced play filled with classic mystery tropes, Shakespearean humour and surprising twists and turns, blending farce with suspense.

Season: 12-29 February.

Bookings: 9735 1777

Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays 10am –2pm.

The 1812 Theatre Clue on Stage

What a night of light-hearted entertainment.

As one walked through the front door a program was handed out, but!

Unlike the unusual program this was in an envelope with red writing diagonally the word CONFIDENTIAL.

And this is before one entered the actual theatre.

The cast were terrific, first we had the maid played by Teagan Llewyn who really caught the character of such a role and certainly added to the enjoyment of the evening.

Then was the butler played by Finley Oldmeadow, a magnificent portrayal and one scene he really excelled, the timing was terrific, he judged audience reaction to a T and it certainly added to the mirth of the evening.

The next was Colonel Mustard, played by Pat Ryanm a loud-mouthed Southern Colonel who added to the evening.

The cook/ensemble was played by Kendall Gaudian, playing two roles which is not easy, and asses to the enjoyment of the evening.

Ms White was played by Hannah Bolt who also with her outlook was enjoyed by the opening night audience.

Ms Peacock played by Claire Mabberly who gave an unforgettable portrayal of the character. Mr Green played by Broderick McDonald giving a great portrayal of such a character but at the end he was a surprise.

Professor Plum played by Felix Green was quite a character and again enjoyed by the audience. Miss Scarlet was given a great interpretation by Bethany Backo and her dress left nothing to be desired. I must admit I would like to add further to this review but it would give away the lot so I won’t.

Looking at club’s history

By Joy Gothe

With the popularity of the recent Australian Open it seems fitting to relate the beginnings of the Lilydale Lawn Tennis Club, which holds a special place in the district’s history as the first sporting group to call the Garden Reserve (now Melba Park) home.

Its story began in November 1892, when an informal meeting of local’s set plans in motion to establish Lilydale’s first tennis club.

Following the meeting, the group approached the council seeking permission to build courts in Lilydale Park.

The council granted permissive occupancy of part of the reserve, and with the shire engineer generously donating his surveying services, the ambitious project quickly gathered momentum.

The estimated £80 required to construct an asphalt court was a considerable sum at the time.

Undeterred, the community rallied behind the initiative, and a lavish concert featuring spectacular entertainment drew strong support and helped to raise funds.

Annual subscriptions contributed £35, and the balance was secured through £5 loans from enthusiastic new members.

When local banks temporarily closed, members once again stepped in to lend money so the contractor could be paid promptly.

The court was officially opened on 3 May 1893, coinciding with Lilydale’s first Wednesday halfholiday.

Around 150 excited residents gathered courtside to witness the occasion.

In a memorable speech, trustee Dr W. P. Norris declared that even the opening of the Chicago

CARTOON

World’s Fair paled in comparison to the significance of Lilydale’s new tennis court.

Proceedings began with a mixed doubles match, followed by further games and afternoon tea served from a large copper bubbling over an open fire. Initially, the club shared space in Melba Park with the Croquet Club and the Bowling Club.

Throughout the 1920s, the club committee met at various venues around Lilydale, overseeing equipment and court maintenance.

For decades, the club was a vibrant social hub, hosting tournaments, balls, concerts, afternoon teas and card nights to support maintenance and equipment costs.

Over time, three asphalt courts were constructed and later upgraded to en-tout-cas in the early 1960s

In 1978, the club relocated to Eyrefield Park, behind the Shire Offices, where eight plexipave courts were built.

Unfortunately many early records of the club were tragically lost in a fire during the 1990’s.

Today, the Lilydale Tennis Club remains an important part of the local sporting landscape, proudly connected to its origins at Melba Park and its long tradition of community spirit.

If you are interested in discovering more stories about the history of Lilydale visit our Website at lilydalehistorical.com.au or think about becoming a volunteer.

A story about growing PASSION FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

Leo and Ralph, by award-winning author Peter Carnavas, is the winner of the 2025 Prime Minister’s Literary Awards – Children’s Literature.

The story follows the boy Leo, who loves space and knows everything about it.

Trouble is, he finds it difficult to make friends with kids his age, who are always faster, more physically active, and far more eager to participate in games and sports.

Whenever Leo tries to communicate his ideas or ask questions about the universe, the other kids are either baffled or bored.

“They didn’t care for the size of his thoughts or the time it took to share them, and they butted in or walked away before he finished talking.”

Knowing his parents are worried about him being withdrawn and lonely, Leo tries but fails to make even one friend at school – so he decides to make up one.

His imaginary friend is Ralph, an alien from one of Jupiter’s moons.

They soon become the best of mates.

However, when Leo’s family has to relocate to another town, the boy has to part with his best friend.

His emotional and psychological struggles to adapt to a new life form the backbone of the story, constantly tugging at the readers’ heartstrings.

“He couldn’t imagine doing anything without Ralph. Before they met, he was like an asteroid, orbiting the other kids, not knowing what to do.

As soon as Ralph arrived, school became less scary, the grown-ups stopped worrying and Leo had the friend of his dreams.

He didn’t want to go back to the way things were, especially in a place where he didn’t know anyone.”

Perhaps the most heartwarming part of the story is how Leo’s family respects his personal space, allowing him to experience life at his own pace.

They smile whenever Leo sticks out his pinky finger for his imaginary friend to hold.

They even set an extra place at the table and wait for Ralph to buckle up in the backseat before backing the family car out of the driveway.

Leo’s primary school teachers also accept him just the way he is, neither patronising nor belittling the boy’s interests in constellations, space travels and UFO sightings.

They make Ralph a name tag and let him sit at Leo’s desk, warning with wink: “If I hear one peep from your furry little friend, if he interrupts me just once, he’ll be out, lickety-split. Understand?”

Of course the boy nods.

“Everyone left him to the things that made him happy: Ralph, the telescope and the endless world above.”

Leo is allowed to thrive in his own way, without having to change or conform for other people’s sake.

That is the best support any child can have when growing up remains a journey with unexpected and unpredictable twists and turns.

This is a gentle and fun story suitable for readers aged 8-12 years.

Highly recommended.

LIGHT-FILLED RENOVATED HOME

LIGHT-FILLED RENOVATED HOME ON A RARE 2025SQM. USABLE BLOCK

BEAUTIFULLY renovated throughout and completely move-in ready, this light-filled home offers space, comfort and lifestyle on a generous 2025sqm (approx.) fully usable block — a rare opportunity for first home buyers, downsizers or growing families alike.

From the moment you step inside, the home feels warm and inviting. Cathedral ceilings enhance the sense of space, while natural light pours through the living zones, creating an airy and uplifting atmosphere. The thoughtfully updated interior blends modern finishes with everyday practicality, ensuring there is nothing left to do but move in and enjoy.

The home features:

• Three well-proportioned bedrooms.

A stylishly renovated central bathroom.

• Comfortable living areas warmed by a wood fire, complemented by split systems for yearround climate control.

• A heat redistribution vent to maximise warmth throughout the home. Step outside and you’ll discover a property designed for lifestyle. The expansive deck is perfect for entertaining or enjoying quiet mornings overlooking the yard. A dedicated fire pit area invites relaxed evenings under the stars, while the fully fenced grounds provide space for kids and pets to roam safely. Practicality has not been overlooked. The property offers:

• Sealed road access.

Concrete driveway.

• Double carport.

Separate workshop.

• Mains connections.

• Generator Plug.

With its combination of renovation, land size, and usable infrastructure, this is a home that delivers flexibility and long-term value. Whether you’re entering the market, downsizing without compromise, or seeking room for the family to grow, this beautifully presented property ticks all the boxes.

Contact your local home experts Caiti Ellis on 0493 136 937 or Mick Dolphin on 0429 684 522 to book in an inspection today. ●

THE ULTIMATE COUNTRY HIDEAWAY

A rare and very unique large acreage property, offering the ultimate bush getaway in stunning surroundings and a complete off grid lifestyle.

Sitting on approx. 172 glorious Yarra Valley acres with a few cleared acres and the remainder of picturesque scattered bushland.

A builders own home, a quality build and just a few years old. Beautifully presented inside and out and with all the modern comforts of an energy efficient home.

Offering 3 bedrooms all with built in robes plus an ensuite and walk in robe in the main bedroom.

Separate spacious family and living rooms are perfectly situated to admire and enjoy the rural vista view.

The kitchen is very impressive with quality appliances and fixtures throughout with ample bench and cupboard space plus a separate meals/dining area.

Head outdoors and you’re spoilt for activities and adventure - offering something for the whole family!

A huge lock-up garage, beautiful open rolling grassed areas and acres and acres of bush to explore and enjoy. A nature lovers paradise with an abundance of wildlife and birdlife in peaceful and private surroundings.

Boasting a fantastic rural lifestyle, this property boasts a very unique financial bonus offering generous biodiversity credits offering the new owners a substantial financial income and bonus for the years ahead. A truly unique and special property offering a fantastic large acreage rural lifestyle ●

FAMILY HOME WITH VERSATILE LIVING OPTIONS

OFFERING an exceptional floorplan and flexibility, this well designed, five bedroom residence spans two generous levels and presents an outstanding opportunity for large or extended families and multi generational living.

Set on just under half an acre, the property boasts a substantial rear yard-an ideal haven for children, pets, and outdoor living. Inside, five well proportioned bedrooms provide endless versatility, with cooking facilities upstairs and downstairs, easily accommodating growing families or allowing spaces to be reimagined as a home office, media room, or private teenager’s retreat.

Updated throughout, the home features a spacious, modern kitchen equipped with stainless steel appliances, neat and tidy bathrooms-including one thoughtfully renovated for disabled access-a large functional laundry, and two expansive living zones designed for relaxed family living and entertaining.

Comfort is assured year-round with a combination split-system air conditioning, and 2 wood fires creating warmth and ambience through the cooler months.

Step outside and discover a lifestyle rich in space and possibility. The expansive backyard invites you to create your own productive oasis with fruit trees, vegetable gardens, or even space for animals, while the covered rear deck provides the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy your private surrounds in all seasons.

With three car spaces and conveniently located within walking distance to Belgrave Heights Christian School and the much loved Birdsland Reserve, and just a short drive to Tecoma, Belgrave and Belgrave South, this property delivers the perfect blend of space, lifestyle and location-an exciting opportunity with immense family appeal. ●

Thisoriginalweatherboardcottagehasbeenthoughtfullyextendedwith aspaciousmodern additionyetretainingplentyofcharm.Inside,you´ll findthreegeneroussizedbedrooms,including aprivatemastercompletewithensuiteandwalkinrobe.Attheheartofthehomeis aspacious galleystylekitchenwithabundantstorageandplentyofbenchspace,includinga bigbreakfast bar.Slidingglassdoorsopentoanalfrescodeck,idealforentertainingandsummerbarbecues. Outdoors,magnificentestablishedtrees,fruittreesand flourishinggardenssurroundthehome,ample parkinginthecarportplusa largepoweredshedwithconcrete flooring.Furtheradditionsinclude aoutbuildingswhichincludewoodshed,trailer/mowershedand abonuswatertankservicingthe veggiepatchandorchardarea.

Overhalfanacre,gorgeousmountainviewsanda tinyhouse! Anincredibleopportunitytosecurethisfabulouspropertyofover2300sq.mofland,complete withelevatedviewsthatwilltrulyleaveyouspellbound.Includedis atinyhouseconnectedto electricity,sewageandwater,justparkupontheweekendsputyourfeetupandenjoythe beautifulenvironment.Thetinyhouseis abonusandcertainlyhasallthe‘bellsandwhistles’and builtto ahighstandard.Positionedtotakeinthatdreamymountainview.Ifyou’vebeenseriously consideringinvestinginWarburton,nowisthetime!WiththeopeningoftheWarburtonMountain BikeDestinationandseveralnewprojectsanddevelopmentsintown,thiscouldbetheopportunity you’vebeenwaitingfor.Thelocationisideal,only afewminutestotheYarraRiver,Warburtonrail trailandallthebeautyofwhatWarburtonhastooffer.

NeatandSweetwithViewsandSpace

BoastingelevatedviewsofthedistantmountainsandthepicturesqueYarraValleyscenery,thisneat andwellpresentedpropertyistheidealplacetocallhome.Boasting 3bedroomsallwithbuiltin robes,thelargeopenlounge/livingareaisa greatspottositback,enjoyandadmirethecolourful everchangingscenery.Thekitcheniswellappointed,spaciousandoffersplentyofbenchand cupboardspaceplus aseparatemeals/diningareagivingthewholefamilyplentyofspace.Venture outsideandenjoytheoutdoorswithundercoverdeckingoverlookingtheprivategardenoasisand mountainviews.Headtothebackyardandenjoythecoveredentertainingarea,gardenshed,kids cubbyandcoveredspaarea. Agreatfamilyhomein agreatlocation.

CountryViewsonOveranAcreofSpace

‘MtViewPark’is afantasticfamilypropertysittingonover 1acretoexploreandenjoy.Therustic countryresidenceoffersgreatspaceinsideandoutboasting 3bedroomswitha spaciouslounge/ living/familyarea -it’stheidealspottosit,relaxandenjoytheoutlook.Goodsizekitchenwithample benchandcupboardspaceplus aseparatemealsarea.A largewideopenveranda’ssurroundsthe homeofferingyearroundoutdoorentertainingandwithdistantmountainviewstoadmire,it’sjust thespottounwindandrelax.Theoutdoorsoffersplentytodosittingonover 1acre(4375sqm),there issomethingforthewholefamily.A largelockupgarageprovidesamplecaraccommodation, establishedtreesandgardenswithplentyofspacetoaddandcreatea gardenparadise.A great propertyin apicturesquelocationwith aslowerpacedlifestylethewholefamilywilllove.

HOME FOCUS

THE ULTIMATE HOBBY FARM AND TRADIE HEAVEN

IF you’ve been dreaming of space, freedom, and a whole lot of lifestyle perks, this is it. Set on 2.5 glorious acres in Pakenham Upper, this brilliant 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home was built in 2010 by the current owners — and it’s got all the right ingredients for country living with a luxury twist.

Electric gates open to a private world of peace and potential. Step inside and you’re greeted with a warm brick feature wall, loads of natural light, and slab heating underfoot (yep, throughout the whole house — your toes will thank you). Add in a wood fire with heat transfer, ducted vacuum, and reverse-cycle heating/cooling and you’ve got comfort sorted in every season.

The kitchen? A dream. Granite benchtops, gas cooking, a large walk-in pantry with automatic lighting, and a bi-fold servery window that opens to the sunroom—perfect for morning coffees or sunset snacks with a view. The open-plan living and dining area is ideal for family hangs, while a second lounge adds that much-needed extra space.

The master suite is your private retreat, perfectly positioned to soak up the peaceful outlook. Large glass doors let in plenty of natural light and open directly to the outdoors, giving you that morning coffee-in-the-sun moment every day. Inside, you’ll find double walk-in robes and an open-plan ensuite that feels more like a personal spa—complete with a deep spa bath,

oversized shower, and loads of space to unwind at the end of the day. Four more bedrooms (with robes) and a central bathroom offer flexibility for every setup. The laundry even includes a shower and toilet — no queues here!

Now let’s talk outdoors: a huge undercover entertaining area, fully fenced salt and chlorine pool, fire pit zone, and all the shedding you could hope for. There’s an 18m x 9m powered shed with 4.3m walls, double garage, 4-car carport, and even a generator plug for backup.

Need more? How about a separate studio with a split system, wood fire and kitchenette — perfect as a teen retreat, guest space or work-from-home setup. There’s also a fenced dog run, veggie gardens, a massive chook pen, two stables, hay storage, and two paddocks with water and shelters.

Tucked between Emerald and Pakenham, this is more than just a home — it’s a lifestyle upgrade waiting to happen.

This property has it all so don’t miss out - call 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.

ArchitecturalElegancewithPanoramicViews! Perchedon2,671sqminpeacefulAvonsleigh,momentsfromEmerald’stownship,schools& shops, thisstriking4-bedroom,2-bathroomhomeblendsarchitectural flairwitheverydaycomfort &breath takingtreetop &valleyviews.A wideverandahwrapsaroundthehome,leadinginsidetosoaring ceilings,timber floors&astunningcentralatriumthat fillsthespacewithnaturallightbyday& frames thestarsbynight.Thestylishkitchenfeaturesstonebenchtops,integratedappliances &a serene outlook —perfectforrelaxedliving& entertaining.Themastersuiteenjoysverandahaccess,walk-in robe &ensuite,while 3furtherbedroomsareservicedbya familybathroom.Freshlypainted& fitted withgasductedheating &evaporativecooling,thehomealsoincludesanundercoverentertaining area,doublegarage,carport& leafygardens —a trueHillssanctuary.

Stunning &ImmaculateHillsRetreatwithDualAccommodation &Beautiful ViewsonOver3 Acres Setonjustover3 acreswith2 streetfrontages, acirculardriveway& viewsfromeverywindow,this exceptionalpropertyblendsspace, flexibility& tranquillity.Themainhomefeatures3 bedrooms (masterwithensuite &walk-inrobe)a brightopen-plankitchenwithstonebenchtops &900mm gasstove &split-levellivingwitha loungewarmedby awood fire &splitsystem.Stepontothe expansivedecktoenjoydistanthillviews, aspabath &overheadheaters —perfectforyear-round entertaining.A separatestudiowithbathroom,Juliettebalcony& workshopbelowaddsdual-living orguestpotential.Additionalhighlightsincludea 4-carpoweredgarage,extensiveveggiegarden,2 fencedpaddocks,anorchardof27fruittrees &an8.5KVAdieselgeneratorwithautomaticcut-in.

S SamanthaScott M 0438680032 AaronDay M 0407365994

4 A 2 B 3 C

ALight-FilledHomeina Private,Walk-to-TownSetting. Tuckedwithin aquiet,gatedcommunityona low-maintenance195sqm,thiswell-presented7-yearold2-bedroomunitdeliverseasylivingina locationthattrulyworks.Gembrooktownship,schools &everydayamenitiesarejusta shortwalkaway.Thelight-filledmasterbedroomsitsatthefrontof thehome,featuringlargewindows,walk-inrobe& ensuite. Asecondbedroomwithbuilt-inrobesis positionedalongside.Atthecentreofthehome,theopen-plankitchen,dining& livingzoneoffers apracticallayoutwithgascooktop,dishwasher,breakfastbar,generousbenchspace& excellent storage.Thesecondbathroomwithseparatetoiletispositionedoffthelivingarea.Slidingdoors opentoanundercoverentertainingarea &fullyfencedrearyard,whileinternalaccesstothesingle garage &amplehallwaystoragecompletethiscomfortable,secure &well-locatedhome. 5/6BlacksmithPlaceGembrook

CharmingHomein aTranquilGardenSetting. Setonalmostone-thirdofanacre,thischarmingdouble-storeybrickhomeofferspeacefulliving surroundedbybeautiful,bird-filledgardens.A wideundercoververandahwrapsaroundthreesides, creatinginvitingoutdoorspacestosit,relax& enjoythenaturalsetting.Inside,9ftceilings,polished floorboards,gasductedheating& double-hungwindowsenhancethehome’swelcomingfeel. Thecentraltimberkitchenincludesanislandbench,greatstorage,a dishwasher,walloven& gas stovetop, flowingtobothformal& informallivingareas.Upstairs,theprivatemastersuitefeaturesa walk-inrobe,ensuite& studynook,whiletwoadditionalbedroomswithtriplerobessharea central bathroom.Outside,thefullyfencedyardisidealforchildren& pets,withanundercoverentertaining area,circulardriveway,remotedoublegarage &highcarportperfectfor acaravanorboat.

DELICIOUSLY DIFFERENT BY DESIGN

WITH Upwey being one of the most popular places for buyers to find a home in the Dandenong Ranges, is it any wonder that homes here are highly sought after.

This property is a ‘one of a kind’ Upwey residence, walking distance to Upwey Township and its fabulous shopping strip and many restaurants, also rail access to the CBD.

There is so much to this architecturally intriguing residence, set in a quiet street, this thoughtfully designed home offers space, comfort, and flexibility for growing or multigenerational families, even the perfect space to have a private ‘work from home’ situation.

The home features four generous bedrooms, three bathrooms and two fully equipped kitchens, making it ideal for large families, dual living, or hosting guests. Openplan living and dining areas on both levels flow easily to decks outside, affording lovely tree top views and creating an easy connection between indoor and outdoor living – the quintessential Australian lifestyle.

Natural materials add warmth and character, including Tasmanian blackwood flooring, wormy chestnut detailing, blackbutt rafters, cedar shiplap walls, and travertine tiles. The kitchens are well appointed, with quality finishes including bamboo benchtops and marble splashbacks.

Built with quality and energy efficiency in mind, the home includes double glazing, low-E glass, and European-style doors for year-round comfort. Hydronic heating runs throughout, complemented by a high-efficiency wood heater, heated towel rails, and an upstairs spa bath for added comfort.

All this in a peaceful Upwey location, with the Dandenong Ranges on your doorstep.

** Offers closing Tuesday 10 March at 3pm, unless sold prior. ●

DIFFERENT BY DESIGN LIGHT-FILLED RENOVATED HOME

combination of renovation, land size & usable infrastructure, this is a home that delivers flexibility and long-term value. Whether you’re entering the market, downsizing without compromise, or seeking room for the family to grow, this beautifully renovated

UNIQUE 18 ACRES IN UPWEY!

PRIVATE LIFESTYLE LIVING

NOTE: TO VIEW, PARK AT 2 LEONARD ST, UPWEY

This parcel of bushland offers an opportunity to surround yourself with Mother Nature with amazing rural views over the Lysterfield valley by day, distant twinkling lights towards Melbourne by night. Wander the bush trails to a tranquil mountain stream at the bottom of the block, abuts the Glenfern Valley Reserve and offers multiple access points for a choice of a home site (STCA) & service nearby. This tranquil setting will allow you to enjoy a private lifestyle yet is just minutes from all amenities and easy access to the freeway.

Grant Skipsey 0418 528 102

Set on a generous 1¼-acre allotment with rear street access, this superb lifestyle property delivers space, privacy & versatility. Positioned well back from the road, the home enjoys a northerly aspect filling the interiors with natural light & is surrounded by gently undulating land & low-maintenance gardens. The standout feature is the impressive solar heated 15m x 6m indoor swimming pool and 8-person spa. The sealed driveway, workshop and storage areas provide outstanding flexibility for vehicles, hobbies or

Jan Brewster 0409 558 805

To solve

ACROSS

1 Tinned meat (4)

3 Collection and study of data (10)

10 Fluids (7)

11 Make a big profit (coll) (5,2)

12 Manliness (8)

13, 25-down Carnival and parade (5,4)

14 Frustrate (4)

15 Synchronous (10)

18 Unnecessary (9)

20 Unattractive (4)

21 Bonus (5)

23 Dormant (8)

26 Whistleblower, Edward – (7)

27 One who does parkour (7)

28 Skilled craftsmen or inventors (10)

29 Requests (4)

DOWN

1 Old sailor (coll) (4)

2 Quietly comply (9)

4 Evidence (9)

5 In bad taste (5)

6 Kitchen utensil (7)

7 Part of a target (5)

8 Use of false, but clever arguments (9)

9 Woman’s calf-length clothing (4)

14 Indigestion (9)

16 Transformer (9)

17 Designer of goods and structures (9)

19 In support of (2,3,2)

22 Fish (5)

23 Of sound waves (5)

24 Fuel cut from bogs (4)

25 See 13-across

Pink Stumps Day success

Mt Evelyn Cricket Club was decked out in pink for their inaugural Pink Stumps Day designed to celebrate the women’s contribution to club and support the McGrath Foundation and their work with breast cancer and the breast care network. Whilst the good times and celebrating were happening off the field, the cricketers went about their business on the field with four of the teams striving to lock in finals action in the last round of home and away action.

The Community Bank - Mt Evelyn 1st XI hosted Bayswater Park who has everything to play for in striving to usurp Wonga Park in the top four, whilst for the Mounters it is all about pride after a tough season. In an attempt to fast track the game, the Sharks elected to bowl in a bid that they could force an opportunity for outright points should they dismiss the hosts cheaply.

The Mounters would find the going tough as they have all year and struggled to ignite the innings despite some early fight from Jesse Fraser and soon found themselves in a hole at 5/64 inside the first twenty overs. Jake Blackwell has been the rock of the batting line up all season and was sorely missed last game. He would pair with Malinga De Silva for a face saving half century partnership that kept the circling Sharks at bay. De Silvia’s wicket put a dint in proceedings and it looked as though the hosts would struggle to muster a total beyond 130. Unperturbed, Blackwell would fight on, finding useful support from Darcy Fraser. The Sharks would eventually wear the hosts down and with Blackwell being the last dismissed for a fine innings of 75, the hosts would be bowled out for 182. A fair comeback after their early woes, but still short of a competitive total.

With nothing to lose, the Mounters would throw everything at the Sharks for the remainder of the day, and once again it would be Bohdie Jones providing the grunt work. He would remove both openers early to put the brakes on the visitors’ pursuit of quick runs. An untimely side strain would end Jones’ day, and possibly season, and the Sharks would eek their way to safety and a dominant position with the score at 2/71 at stumps.

Early wickets will be the key if Mt Evelyn have any chance of finishing their season on a high note, whilst they will be under pressure from a Sharks batting line up eager to force the Mounters to bat again.

The Professionals Outer East 2nd XI need a victory on the road against Montrose to secure their place in the finals and the hit out against the third placed Wolves would provide a good preparation for the upcoming finals series. Day one couldn’t have been more comprehensive for the Mounters as they flexed their muscles in this contest. After Montrose elected to bat, it was pretty much one way traffic. It has been the young stars who have combined to lead an allround attack that has impressed all season, and wickets to Kynan Yates, Austin Leonard, Billie Laird and Joey Chamberlin kept things in check throughout the early part of the innings. Lachie Morrow (2/22) and Luke Jones (2/21) would then capitalise on the work of their teammates to ram home the advantage.

When Yates nipped put the last couple of wickets to boost his final figures to 3/28, the Wolves would stagger to an unflattering total of 139. Mt Evelyn possess a talent laden, and experienced, batting line up and they quickly made inroads into the chase. Adam Smith blasted a quick fire 30 to have the run rate humming, but his innings burned out as quickly as it begun. Luke Jones and Alex Brisbane-Flynn then combined for a more orthodox and controlled partnership to see the Mounters to stumps without any more blemishes. With the score at 1/93, the Mounters will look to an early finish next week and look forward to a big finals series.

The fate of the Rhead Group 3rd XI is on the edge despite their dominant showing on day one against South Warrandyte. With the team sitting outside the top four, not only is victory vital, but they need either Heathwood or Mooroolbark to lose in their final game of the season.

The Mounters would check off the first requirement securing first innings points on day one, but not before an eventful finish to the day’s play. The Mounters would bowl first and put together a comprehensive effort with the ball with all bowlers contributing to reduce the Hawks to 8/112 after their first split with Andrew White being the pick of the bowlers taking three crucial wickets.

The Mounters would make the most of the their first split with the only blemish being the unfortunate injury to Cambell Finch who has starred with the bat this season. Experienced campaigners Ian Hawkey (50 not out) and Darren Westaway (48 not out) would put together a masterful partnership that would put the team in a position to consider an early declaration. With a watch on other games which were travelling in the wrong direction for the Mounters, a ten man Hawks line up and a desire to claim first innings points before the close of play, captain Graeme Foster made the bold decision to declare with a lead of just 30 runs. One wicket would secure the points.

Foster’s decision would pay dividends as Luke Shepherd would capture the elusive final wicket and first innings points, a fabulous result considering they were missing the considerable talents of Daniel Meades. By no means does this mean the Mounters have secured their place in the finals. If weather intervenes, then they will leapfrog into the top four. Should the fine weather continue, they may still need to gain outright points to advance.

The Hop Hen Brewing 4th XI secured their finals position last week in their thrilling win against Wonga Park and would be presented with a tough challenge against top of the ladder St Andrews in the final game of the season.

The Mounters would bat first and the trend for the day would be an old fashioned arm wrestle between bat and ball. Kadyn Newport would give the Mounters a brisk start, but from there it would be a dour affair. The only other batsman to pass 20 would be Lachie Robertson who would anchor the innings carrying his bat through the first split finishing on 21 not out. Through 36 overs the Mounters would post 4/92, a touch slow, but with wickets in hand to explore a brisk finish to the innings should they find themselves in the position to do so.

The Mt Evelyn bowlers would put the Mounters on the front foot with the underrated Campbell

Manser snaring two quick wickets, and when the wiley spin of Robbie Wilson captured two more, the Saints had stumbled to 4/42. The stumbling block for the Mounters would come in the form of the experienced Dwayne Paisley who would anchor St Andrew’s’ innings and keep them a step in front of the contest. Wilson would collect his third wicket to keep things interesting with the Saints finishing on 5/111.

One would suggest that this contest lays on the shoulders of Paisley and what support he can garner from the rest of the Saints line up. Should they falter to build a significant lead, the Mounters will be in a position to swoop. Either way, the Mounters will be buoyed by their recent form against the top echelon of teams.

The Lilydale Tyres 5th XI have been consistently going about their business all season and the only reason they find themselves in a fight for their position in the finals comes due to the fact that they have found the top two teams too difficult to overcome. This left the equation simple for the last round, it is either them or their last round opponent, Lusatia Park. Winner takes the final position in the four.

Mt Evelyn batted first and soon found themselves in a pickle when the score faltered to 2/23, but that wobble should soon be erased as Craig Kenins would put together one of the most impressive innings for the season for the Mounters. Kenins would still be at the wicket after the first split with an impressive score of 133 against his name. Kenins would blast 19 fours and 2 sixes along the way. Paul Flavel would continue his recent form with the bat, posting a second half century on the trot and combine with Kenins for a 142-run third wicket partnership. When the dust settled on the split, Mt Evelyn would be sitting on an imposing score of 4/235 and Kenins still batting.

Lusatia Park would have to bat beyond themselves if they were to escape day one with any chance of pushing the contest deep into day two. That they did. The unforgiving ‘Postage Stamp’ and a measured approach from the Tigers ensured they weren’t to be outdone on the first day. The Mounters would bowl well, but runs are hard to contain on Mt Evelyn #2 and the Tigers would hold their nerve despite the large total amassed by the host. At the end of their first split, the game was on a knife’s edge with Lusatia Park posting 4/214.

All is set for a big last day of the season. For the winners, finals action awaits, for the losers, the sidelines await.

The Flowtec 6th XI travelled to Bayswater Park to take on the top of the table Sharks with a largely young and inexperienced line up. Mt Evelyn would win the toss and elected to bat in a bid to post a defendable total. It soon became apparent that this would be a tough battle for the young Mounters, particularly when reliable Bruce Smith was the second wicket to fall with the score on just 7. The inexperienced middle order would try valiantly with Gary Scott, returning from injury, but they would find run making challenging against a disciplined attack. Despite some lusty blows from Craig Carstens, it looked as though an early finish was on the cards as Carsten’s wicket reduced the Mounters to 6/53 with not much left in the sheds.

Captain Chris Anderson would walk to the crease as the last of the adults in the line up and urged his young teammates to show resolve and stay firm against some skilled bowling. Liam Glover never throws his wicket and his determination with the bat allowed Anderson to slowly boost the total. Glover would last for a largely unrewarded 35 balls, but his 44-run partnership with his skipper pushed the total towards three figures. Young gun Toby Kenins would arrive in the nick of time and he too would support his captain with solid technique and stout resolve. So much so that he would help the team bat out their allotted overs to lead the team to a score of 9/128. Anderson undefeated on 70. Not a huge total by any means, but the resilience shown by the young batting line up was to be admired.

Anderson threw the bowling responsibilities to his younger teammates, and like they did with the bat, they showed great resolve with the ball and an improved performance resulted despite wickets being hard to come by against a batting line up that contains the top four run getters in the grade. Jacob Glover would be the only wicket taker in another consistent performance with the ball, whilst Liam Glover and Noah Bell would appreciate the larger expanses of Sasses Avenue Reserve and had the courage to flight the ball with confidence. At the end of the day, the Sharks would prove to be way too strong for the Mounters and would run out comfortable nine wicket winners with over half their overs still remaining.

More milestones at club

By Les Hutchings

Some significant games milestones were celebrated by Kilsyth Cricket Club on the weekend with Pat Moilanen (Fifth XI) playing his 350th senior match, Robert Hutchings (Third XI) his 300th senior game, and Tegan Unternahrer her 50th game for the Women’s First XI. Coincidentally, First XI players Mackenzie Scott-Thomas and Dylan Smith both took their 100 th senior wicket in the match against Vermont. There were also two half centuries scored, both 50 retired not out in the Fifth XI – Steve Lindsay 50* off 32 balls (7 fours and 2 sixes) and Pat Moilanen 50* off 72 balls (6 fours). Additionally, Under 12 player Zion “Nick” Solomons took 3/2 off 3 overs with the ball and then scored 46* off 40 balls (8 fours) with the willow, thus demonstrating his all-round ability.

Kilsyth’s First XI commenced their final game for the season in a two-day match Vermont at Pinks Reserve in the Wilkins Cup competition. Vermont won the toss and elected to bat. A 75-run opening partnership in 21 overs came to an end when Andy Solomons trapped Trent Callen LBW for 22 off 62 balls (1 four). At that stage, Cameron Clark was 50* and he went on to score 59 before being caught at short cover by Isuru Umesh off the bowling of Dylan Smith for 59 off 102 balls (8 fours). It was then 2/98 after 31.1 overs. A third wicket partnership of 101 between Ethan Walker and Jack Morrison lifted the score to 3/199 off 52 overs when Walker was caught by Sagar Ahir off the bowling of spinner Mackenzie Scott-Thomas for 48 off 69 balls (8 fours and 1 six). By the second drinks break, Vermont had advanced to 3/229 off 61 overs with Morrison on 72* off 106 balls and Mitchell Kohne 18* off 30 balls. These two shared a fourth wicket partnership of 127 before Jack Morrison was well caught at deep mid-wicket by Mackenzie Scott- Thomas off the bowling of Jack Childs for 125 off 146 balls, including 12 fours and 3 sixes. Vermont were now a commanding 4/326 from 74.3 overs. At stumps after 80 overs, they finished on 9/372cc with Mitchell Kohne scoring 66 off 75 balls (11 fours). For Kilsyth, Jack Childs captured 4/50 off 9 overs, Dylan Smith 2/67 off 10 overs (1 maiden), Andy Solomons 1/30 off 7 overs (1 maiden), and Mackenzie Scott-Thomas 1/71 off 21 overs (6 maidens). In the field, Kilsyth Captain Andy Solomons took three catches and achieved a run out with a good throw to ’keeper Chris Pahi. The Second XI played Lusatia Park First XI at Woori Yallock Reserve. Kilsyth won the toss and elected to bat but were bundled out for 124 off 54 overs. U16 player Max Wills was the top scorer with 40 off 77 balls (8 fours). For Lusatia Park, Terry Bennett took 3/29 off 14 overs (3 maidens), Angus Gelly 3/32 off 13 overs (3 maidens), Adam Dunn 2/31 off 16 overs (4 maidens), Tyson Gaskett 1/15 off 8 overs (4 maidens), and Lochie Winter-Annette 1/11 off 5 overs (2 maidens). In reply, Lusatia Park

were 3/87 at stumps on Day 1 with Lucas Parker 34* off 58 balls (6 fours), and Sumant Gupta 10* off 9 balls (2 fours). Timothy Diggins also batted well scoring 24 off 57 balls (3 fours). The single wicket takers for the Redbacks were Rhys Kearney 1/12, Joshua Bock 1/15 and Ryan Tooth 1/24. The Third XI (third) played a two-day match against Warranwood (second) at Roy Baldwin Reserve in the Don Smith Shield competition. It was the final home and away match and a must win game for both sides who were equal on points with Wonga Park fourth (all on 52 points) with fifth placed Ainslie Park on 47 points. Warranwood won the toss and elected to bat. It was another tough day in the field for the Kilsyth team with Warranwood compiling 7/342cc off 80 overs. Oliver McKenzie top scored with a brilliant 125 off 121 balls (12 fours and 3 sixes), whilst Alan Love scored 72 off 109 balls (10 fours and 1 six), Finn Boniwell 44 off 112 balls (2 fours and 2 sixes), Nathan Russell 44* off 35 balls (7 fours), and Craig Buchan 23 off 54 balls (4 fours). On a hot day, Matt Harper took 3/67 off 12 overs (1 maiden), and Jarrod McPhee bowled tirelessly sending down 29 overs to take 2/97 (4 maidens). Opening bowler Matthew Burgess took 1/1 off 1.3 overs before suffering a hamstring injury and Captain Robert Hutchings took 1/31 off 6 overs (1 maiden) in his 300th senior game for the Club.

The Fourth XI played a split innings two-day match against Heathwood Third XI at Ringwood Secondary College in the B Grade District 1 Section. Kilsyth won the toss and elected to bat but unfortunately had their worst batting performance for the season and were 8/48 after the first split of 36 overs with only Ryan Kaal (17, 2 fours) reaching double figures. For Heathwood, Richard Gordon took 2/2 off 5 overs (4 maidens), Patrick Danaher 2/7 off 10 overs (7 maidens), Gayan Udayakantha 2/8 off 4 overs, and Harshana Rajakaruna 1/12 off 9 overs (3 maidens). In reply, Heathwood were 2/86 off 36 overs with Tierney Reid 52* (3 fours), and Riley McDowell 16*. For Kilsyth, Matt Young took 2/11 off 8 overs (4 maidens). The match continues next week with the second split.

The Fifth XI played Montrose Sixth XI at Elizabeth Bridge Reserve. Kilsyth won the toss and elected to bowl. Playing in this match and making a guest appearance for Kilsyth was former First XI player Steve Lindsay, who was playing with his son Tate. After the allotted 36 overs, Montrose compiled 4/213cc. The top scorers were Michael Bleeze, 50 retired not out off 46 balls (8 fours), Nathan Close 48 off 61 balls (6 fours), Steven Wood 39 off 51 balls (3 fours), and Charlotte Stevens 31 off 49 balls (2 fours). Michael Panozzo took 2/24 off 3 overs, Cody Rakic 1/23 off 6 overs, and Steve Lindsay 1/35 off 7 overs. In reply, Kilsyth scored 3/188cc

off 36 overs. Pat Moilanen, playing his 350th senior game, scored 50* retired off 72 balls (6 fours), Steve Lindsay 50* retired off 32 balls (7 fours and 2 sixes), Daniel Coppens 26* retired off 39 balls (2 fours), Joshua Dousset 19* off 37 balls, and Shane Smith 18 off 12 balls (4 fours). The single wicket takers for Montrose were Acacia Pearce, 1/17 off 4 overs, Shane Rees 1/21 off 5 overs, and Zara Close 1/28 off 4 overs.

On Sunday, the Women’s First XI (third) played a one-day match against Lusatia Park (fifth) at Alan Smith Oval, Pinks Reserve in the B Grade competition. Kilsyth won the toss and elected to bat. An opening partnership of 42 from 7.4 overs got Kilsyth off to a good start before Belinda Hutchings was bowled by Caitlyn Parker for 19 off 27 balls (2 fours). In the next over, Serena Gibbs was caught behind for 22 off 22 balls (3 fours) and Kilsyth were now 2/46 off 8.5 overs. Then, two more wickets fell quickly, 3/56 and 4/63 after 13 overs. However, a fourth wicket partnership of 79 between Lecia Baldry and Rhiley Unternahrer lifted the score to 5/142 after 25.4 overs. This is when Lecia Baldry was caught by Ella Amore off the bowling of Stacey Mercuri for a bright 38 off 41 balls (6 fours). When Rhiley Unternahrer was out LBW to Caitlyn Parker for 30 off 65 balls (3 fours), the Redbacks were 6/172cc off 34.3 overs and finished on 7/173cc off 36 overs. The wicket takers for Lusatia Park were Amelia English 3/15 off 6 overs, Caitlyn Parker 2/17 off 6 overs (1 maiden), Abi Diggins 1/12 off 3 overs, and Stacey Mercuri 1/29 off 6 overs. Only 1.3 overs were bowled in Lusatia Park’s innings before rain stopped play for the day with the match being drawn. At that stage, Lusatia Park were 1/3 with Serena Gibbs capturing 1/0 off 3 balls. Kilsyth Women’s Team will now play Belgrave in an Elimination Final next Sunday.

Top teams maintain the lead in Eastern Suburbs

By David Waters

It was an interesting start to the day. Several substitute managers were called in for the day. Tomy Lam, a first timer, took the responsibility seriously. He had a quick snooze, having arrived before the doors opened at 6. Tomy nervously registered his team members, checked opponents and tees, cross-checking all details. A perfect substitute. The usual questions of ‘How do I reach this tee?’, ‘Who is my opponent?’ and ‘How many shots are given?’ would be answered by experienced pennant players and managers.

The Endeavour Hills course has been kept in very good condition considering the lack of rainfall. Many players on the day commented on the playability of the course. The sloping fairways provided plenty of challenges, that is normal for this course. Centrally aimed shots rolled off into the light rough. On the plus side, extra distance was gained from drives and fairway shots, even if the ball didn’t finish where expected. The greens were very slippery. Quick, slow, tricky were only a few adjectives used in describing them by the visiting teams. Home club members also agreed with the comments. Home club members were not immune to misses from two feet away from the cup. The still conditions and occasional light breeze made 23 to 27 degrees feel a lot hot-

ter. Sunscreen and hats were just as essential to survival as straight drives and putts. Drinks were guzzled during the round but even more at the finish. The tight quarters in the room made it easy for conversation but a little difficult for serving lunch. Elbows flew and cutlery rattled as hungry golfers gobbled the schnitzel and chips and downed a beer.

All games had finished well before 12.30pm curfew, but some players were slow to arrive and enter scores. Results were tallied and last meals were served, and the announcements began.

The room was called to order in the Hear Ye, Hear Ye and bell-ringing fashion of old, as the microphone was out of order. Wayne Clark and Glen Cousins were singled out as the only winners from Eastern green. The squared games were noted and also the halved match which may affect the ladder. The top teams from Box Hill continued to win and the host club won both against Heritage. All the results are below. After thanking the catering crew and wishing everyone a safe drive home, the day’s adventure was concluded at 1.30pm.

Results for Green group: Eastwood 4 tied with Gardiners Run 4. Box Hill 6 def Eastern 2. Churchill/Waverley 6 def Heritage 6.

Gold group: Box Hill 4 ½ def Eastern 3 ½ Eastwood 5 ½ def Gardiners Run 2 ½ Churchill/ Waverley 5 def Heritage 3.

Go Green With Go Green With

Buller Deals Available now

Designed especially for the Australian market, the Buller boasts one of the largest heating capacities in the Euro Fireplaces range. Inspired by traditional Australian wood stoves, the wide window and low profile modernises the classic designs people have come to expect from wood heaters. The two variants include a stylish pedestal or modern bench. Despite the larger firebox size, the Buller maintains high e ciency and low emissions.

Specifications

Heating capacityUp to 280m2 E ciencyAus 61% / EU 76%

Emissions 1.4g/kg

Wood Usage 2.7kg/hr

Weight 158kg

H/W/D 870-930/770/527

Flue Length 4m From Spigot Color Black

Base

Why Euro Fireplaces is the Sustainable Choice

Energy Savings

With increasing energy prices around the world, people are increasingly turning to wood stoves as a sustainable solution for heating throughout the colder months. With the high e ciency of a Euro Fireplace, you will use substantially less wood than a traditional fan forced heater, and will save on your overall energy bills.

Fresh Air Intake

As homes become better insulated and more energy e cient, it’s essential that fireplaces have access to fresh air for proper combustion. Most Euro Fireplaces o er an optional external air intake, supplying fresh air directly to the firebox. This keeps indoor air warm and fresh while improving e ciency and reducing wood consumption.

Advanced Flue Technology

Traditional triple skin vented flues can cool the flue gases and encourage dirty combustion. Insulated flues maintain optimal flue temperature for a cleaner, more e cient burn.

Heat Bank

Many of our heaters utilise thermal mass to store heat whilst burning, before slowly releasing that stored heat overnight. This heat storage can either be achieved through attractive stone or tile finishes, or alternatively through optional refractory concrete blocks which are installed inside the fireplaces, hidden from sight.

Natural Convection

Unlike traditional wood heaters in Australia, Euro Fireplaces do not require fans – they heat your home through natural convection. This process will heat your home more e ectively and e ciently, using up to 3 times less firewood than a fan forced wood burner.

Low Emissions

In Australia, Emissions are tested in grams per kilogram of wood burned. At Euro Fireplaces, the popular Andorra range operate at just 0.8g and the Ribe at 0.4g – industry leading in Australia, and are a testament to the high e ciency and quality of our products.