Mail - Ferntree Gully Star Mail - 16th April 2024

is the home of a new museum aiming to capture, protect and display the history of Ambulance Victoria. The Ambulance Victoria Chas Martin OAM Museum finally opened its doors on Sunday 14 April, inviting all Victorians to experience the proud history of the state’s ambulance service.

museum was the brainchild of a group of retired ambulance officers who formed the Ambulance Historic Society of Victoria in 1986.

The group began acquiring and restoring vintage ambulances, starting out with just six vehicles.

The fleet has since grown to 30, including the first Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance vehicle, a mass casualty bus and ambulance motorbikes.

Yellingbo tragedy found by Coroner to be preventable Crush death ruling

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

A state coroner handed down recommendations calling for better education to prevent further deaths of this kind.

At around 9am on 5 July 2021, The Patch resident attended his step-son Peter and daughter-in-law Jennifer Sanders house to work on a vehicle Mr Sanders owned.

Later that day at around 3pm, Ms Sanders returned and checked on Mr Matthews.

He did not respond when she yelled his name, so she grabbed his leg, when he did not

At around 11am, Ms Sanders spoke to Mr Matthews who was working underneath the vehicle, he told her he was okay and was his ‘normal, happy self,’ Ms Sanders then left to go shopping.

respond, she ran to her neighbours who were standing at the fence and called emergency services.

Emergency services arrived at the scene shortly after, but sadly Mr Matthews was unable to be revived.

Continued page 4

Maurice Wayne Matthews, 70, was found dead while working on a vehicle at his step-son’s house in Yellingbo three years ago.

Outer East a rental desert

By Callum Ludwig

New data has identified the outer-eastern areas of Melbourne as a desert for rental availability, with local government areas (LGAs) such as the Yarra Ranges, Knox and Maroondah struggling with a dearth of available properties.

PropTrack, a property market data intelligence company which was acquired by the REA group (which operates realestate.com.au) in 2018, has revealed that the outer-east region of Melbourne, which includes the Whitehorse, Knox, Yarra Ranges, Maroondah and Manningham LGAs, has a staggering low rental vacancy rate of just 0.48 per cent in March 2024.

PropTrack Economist Anne Flaherty said Melbourne’s outer east has been the city’s best performing region over the past 12 months, with more buyers and renters looking to move into the area.

“The outer east tied for the lowest vacancy rate in the country over March, with just 0.48 per cent of the region’s rental properties sitting vacant,” she said.

“Demand isn’t just being driven by renters, with the outer east seeing the strongest growth in the median home price of any region in Melbourne over the past 12 months.”

Despite the already low percentage of vacant rentals, the outereast region still saw a downward trend in the number of available rentals with quarterly and yearly decreases of 0.17 and 0.26 per cent respectively.

MsFlahertysaiddrivingtheoutperformance of the outer east is the fact that the region ticks many of the key boxes for buyers and renters.

“These include excellent road and public transport infrastructure, easy access to employment hubs, schools, and hospitality and retail amenity,” she said.

“Add to this the lifestyle appeal of the region which provides plenty of green space and access to areas such as the Dandenong Ranges

and theYarraValley.”

According to current listings on realestate. com.au, rentals are available in spatterings in key urban townships and drop off a cliff after entering even slightly more rural areas:

Ferntree Gully and Boronia in the suburban foothills of the Dandenong Ranges have some availability with 27 and 24 properties currently available between them, though the area remains highly competitive as Ray White Ferntree Gully head of property management Jenny Bolch told the Star Mail in July 2023, with an average of 11 applicants per property and a turnover of 163 properties from over 1700 applications in a quarter alone last year.

In theYarra Ranges, Mooroolbark stands out as the most prevalent place for rentals with 28 while Kilsyth is the only other suburb in the double digits with 10. Other larger suburbs like Lilydale (seven) and Chirnside Park (five), while in nearby Maroondah Croydon and Croydon North still only combine for 22 available properties. Ringwood, despite hosting more apartment-style accommodation, also only has 34 properties on offer.

Stepping into the townships on the fringes of suburbia tells a damning tale for rental home hunters as availability tanks:

In the first step outside of larger suburbs,

Montrose(zero),MtEvelyn(one),WandinNorth (zero), Coldstream (zero),The Basin (three) and Upwey (three) don’t offer much promise.

In the hills, Monbulk (two), Olinda (two), Belgrave (one) and Emerald (two) options are limited, as it is in the Upper Yarra with Seville (zero), Woori Yallock (one), Launching Place (zero), Yarra Junction (zero), Wesburn (zero), Millgrove (one) and Warby (one) all pretty barren.

Finding a home in the Valley won’t be much easier as Healesville (four) andYarra Glen (zero) also look bleak.

Director of Community Engagement at Tenants Victoria Farah Farouque said too many Victorian renters looking for safe, secure and affordable housing are facing excruciating challenges amid this elongated renting crisis.

“What we’ve seen is that, amid record low vacancy rates, no area of Melbourne is immune from the crisis and that extends to the urban fringe where traditionally people had headed to find more affordable rental housing,” she said.

“It’s really tough out there for singles, families and retirees on low and, increasingly, middle incomes who have to compete in the private rental market,”

“Part of the solution has to be to build more social housing, that is homes owned by not-forprofits or government, and can be leased out at more affordable rates.”

2021 Census data indicated there were 36,705 rented properties in the Outer East, which assuming the same number of properties were still rentals now means only 176 rental homes are currently vacant.

The data comes out at a time when Melburnian social media star and law graduate Jordan van den Berg has begun taking submissions of homes that have been vacant for over two years, and linking them to those facing homelessness and severe housing stress to legally squat in. Mr van den Berg has grown a following of over 184,000 on TikTok and over 50,000 on Instagram, largely advocating for greater rights for renters, improved quality and safety of ‘Shit Rentals’ and highlighting instances of poor conduct from real estate agencies.

The move has been divisive as Mr van den Berg was questioned by panellists on The Project on Monday 8 April, who asked whether it was a ‘sensible’ solution and if the response to the crisis should be focused on policy instead.

When asked if he thought encouraging people to squat in private properties was the right way to fix the issue byThe Project co-host Sarah Harris, Mr van den Berg said ‘let me answer your question by asking you a question.’

“Do you think it’s right we have thousands of vacant, abandoned homes while we have people living on the street,” he said.

According to an ‘Administrative data snapshot of housing’ released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics at the end of August 2023, the experimental data showed the percentage of ‘active houses’ that showed signs of recent use:

In the Outer East, the Yarra Ranges LGA had 446 (0.8 per cent) inactive houses, Maroondah had 314 (0.7 per cent) and Knox 291 (0.5 per cent).

The Outer East of Melbourne currently has the equal-lowest rental vacancy rate in the country.

Despair as pool cops new damage

By Gabriella Vukman

Despair broke out when the Monbulk Aquatic Centre was left to recover from being hit by another falling tree on 14 April.

After only 18 months of being completely open since the last tree damage, the centre is temporarily closed whilst the damage is being assessed.

Area manager for Yarra Ranges at Belgravia Leisure Darren Allen said, “We were pretty devastated to hear the news that a tree has come down on the health club side of Monbulk Aquatic Centre.”

“We are devastated because only three years ago during the storm damage that was sustained in June in 2021, we had a tree come through the other side of the building in the Pool Hall which led to a prolonged closure of the pool,” Mr Allen said.

“Whilst the damage is seemingly not as bad as last time, we are devastated to see further tree damages to the facility.”

There was no one was in the Health Club building when the tree came down and no cars were damaged.

Mr Allen said, “The pool hall was open to the Marlins Swim Squad who were running their aggregate program but fortunately there was no one in the gym or any cars in the car-

park so no one was hurt or at risk when the incident happened.”

At this stage, the extent of the damage is unknown.

Mr Allen said, “We’ve closed today because we need to get experts in to ensure that the building or parts thereof are fit for occupancy.”

“We are confident we will be able to open in some capacity soon but are awaiting officials who deal with this sort of thing to be able to confirm that the building is fit for purpose and that we can open up to the public.”

“I do anticipate that there will be some restrictions within the health club side of the business but we will wait and see on that,” Mr Allen said.

With the occurrence of precious tree damage only three years ago, Mr Allen puts this latest incident down to location.

“We live in a community that is full of trees. We’ve seen unprecedented levels of landslip, erosion and tree damage throughout the entire region so this stuff just happens here,” Mr Allen said.

“It is a beautiful part of the community and it is one of the most gorgeous places to have a health and wellness centre and we are grateful to be surrounded by the trees but at the same time we are acutely aware that there has been a lot of rain and unfortunately this is a part of

living in the hills.”

With over 13,000 swim school students and health club members, the closure of the aquatic centre will have a detrimental impact on the community.

“It really identifies when we do have to close due to something like this, how important this facility is to the health and wellbeing of the community as well as the social benefits that come from the friendship groups that are built here,” Mr Allen said.

“This is more than just a gym and a pool. It is a genuine part of the community,”

The centre aims to open as soon as possible with the tree already being removed from the carpark.

Mr Allen said, “Whilst the damage is quite confronting to look at from the outside, we are really pleased to say there’s not a lot of damage inside the building.”

“We appreciate the community’s patience and more than anything their kind words to our team.”

“They realise how devastating this sort of thing is for our team who not only live and work here but also make their livelihoods through this facility and we deeply appreciate their understanding and we will be open as soon as we possibly can,” Mr Allen said.

day 11 April. Investigators were informed an unknown man entered a service station on Boronia Road about 10.40pm.

The offender, wearing a mask, allegedly entered through the front door and jumped over the counter. The store attendant was able to seek refuge in an office and was not physically injured during the incident.

The man stole a large quantity of cigarettes and cash from a till and officers have been told the man fled the service station out the front door, dropping packs of cigarettes along the way. It is believed that the man took off in a white vehicle with its boot or door open, as a trail of cigarettes packs were then recovered along Boronia Road.

Police patrolled at the time, but despite the trail of stock from the service station the offender has not been located.

An investigation remains ongoing and police are asking for anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam/CCTV footage or information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Multiple arrests made, including Ferntree Gully man

A Ferntree Gully man and others were part of a group of multiple arrests made recently by Victoria Police. Over the recent Easter long weekend, Croydon Divisional Response Unit (DRU) we busy preparing to execute multiple warrants on known local targets.

Multiple arrests were made without incident or injury with the members seizing large qualities of varying illicit drugs including a commercial volume of the drug known as 1,4 Butanediol. A 32 year old male from Ferntree Gully was charged and faced the Ringwood Magistrates court where he was granted bail.

This was a positive result from the unit who’s on going focus on Drugs, Gangs and all the “goings on” within our Eastern Region continues to put forward positive outcomes within our community.

School zones returned

Drivers on the road in the mornings and afternoons are urged to take care as school zone speed limits are in place again this week as Term 2 of 2024 commenced Monday 15 April.

Drivers are reminded to be patient around school zones as speed limits return and there is an expected increase in road, pedestrian and bicycle traffic at drop-off and pick-up times.

Some school speed zones are permanent, while others operate from 8am to 9.30am, and from 2.30pm to 4pm on weekdays, with reduced speeds of 40km/h or 60km/h in school zones until the end of the school term.

Mercedes Benz recall

Mercedes Benz has recalled 7429 GLE and GLS vehicles with a year range of 2019 to 2022 due to a defect that could cause a vehicle fire. Due to a manufacturing issue, the threaded nut securing the 48 Volt wiring harness under the driver seat may become loose. If this occurs, it could result in higher than normal electrical resistance within the harness which could lead to a vehicle fire.

Owners of affected vehicles can contact their most convenient Mercedes-Benz dealership to have the work carried out as soon as possible, free of charge.

Tree damage at Monbulk Aquatic Centre.

Picture: DARREN ALLEN

Yellingbo car crush death found to be preventable

From page 1

During the investigation, police observed a rope tied from the front bull bar of the vehicle to the nearby carport post.

The investigators reported that a jack appeared to have been set up at the pinch points on the right side of the vehicle, the carport was also on a rocky and sloped section of the ground, and the jack was leaning slightly to the right on an uneven section of gravel, causing the front of the vehicle to dip downwards.

Forensic Pathologist Dr Brian David Beer from theVictorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM) conducted an external examination on the body of Mr Matthews on 6 July 2021.

He reviewed the Victoria Police Report of Death and post mortem CT scan and provided a written report of his findings dated 27 July 2021.

The enquiries initially determined that the jack had become unstable on the rocky and sloped terrain and slid, causing the front of the vehicle to shift.

Dr Beer provided an opinion that the medical cause of death was mechanical asphyxia, which is when an object or a physical force stops you from breathing, in this case Mr Matthews died from being crushed under a car.

His medical history showed Mr Matthew had a coronary artery disease for which he had a coronary artery bypass graft in 2017, glaucoma and obstructive sleep apnoea.

He reported depression in 2018 for which he was prescribed sertraline to good effect; he was a very fit and healthy otherwise.

His death was reported to the Coroner as it fell within the definition of a reportable death in the Coroners Act 2008 (the Act).

Reportable deaths include deaths that are unexpected, unnatural or violent or result from accident or injury.

The role of a coroner is to independently investigate reportable deaths to establish, if possible, identity, medical cause of death,

A state coroner handed down

and surrounding circumstances.

The purpose of a coronial investigation is to establish the facts, not to cast blame or determine criminal or civil liability.

Under the Act, coroners have the power in helping to prevent deaths and promoting public health and safety and the administration of justice through the making of comments or recommendations in appropriate cases about any matter connected to the death under investigation.

An officer was assigned by Victoria Police to carry the investigation for the death of Mr Matthews on behalf of the Coroner.

Coroner Audrey Jamieson said in early march the findings drew on the totality of the coronial investigation into the death of Mr Matthews including evidence contained in the coronial brief.

“While I have reviewed all the material, I will only refer to that which is directly relevant to my findings or necessary for narrative clarity, in the coronial jurisdiction, facts must be established on the balance of probabilities,” Ms Jamieson said in the final report.

“The Coroner’s Investigator conducted in-

quiries on my behalf, including taking statements from witnesses – such as family, the forensic pathologist, treating clinicians and investigating officers – and submitted a coronial brief of evidence.”

With a view to identifying pertinent prevention opportunities, Ms Jamieson asked the Coroners Prevention Unit (CPU) to provide her with data on occurring deaths in similar circumstances.

The CPU identified 25 deaths in Victoria between 1 January 2010 and 12 October 2021, where the deceased was working under a vehicle and the mechanism used to raise the vehicle failed, causing them to be crushed.

Data revealed all deceased were male, with their ages ranging from 18 to 75.

Victorian coroners have made a number of comments and recommendations aimed at reducing preventable deaths resulting from at-home vehicle maintenance.

Her Honour made a few recommendations to prevent injuries and deaths in similar circumstances.

“I recommend that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to

consider renewing its national‘Safe Summer’ campaign with a view to including DIY motor vehicle repairs and maintenance, and review its strategies for disseminating information involved in the campaign,” Ms Jamieson said.

“I also recommend that WorkSafe Victoria once again considered collaborating with the ACCC in its campaigns to promote safety precautions for DIY vehicle maintenance.

“Whilst Maurice was a retired diesel mechanic and therefore had the appropriate technical knowledge to repair a vehicle, the fact remains that doing so at home is an inherently dangerous activity that carries the risk of death, and these preventable deaths continue to occur.”

Mr Matthews was married to Heather for 26 years.

His family described him as a much-loved father, stepfather to his wife’s children, and grandfather.

He loved travelling, dining with family and helping those around him.

His friends and family were his life and he would lend a hand to anyone; he was always approachable and willing to assist.

VCAT no to Belgrave appeal

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Belgrave resident Viet Hieu Nguyen has had his appeal refused by VCAT to establish the land he owns at 56 and 56A Courtneys Road, Belgrave for two dwellings, after it was initially refused by Yarra Ranges Council.

The applicant asserts his land was continuously used for two homes for 15 years.

Because the application was refused byYarra Ranges Council, Mr Nguyen took the matter to the Tribunal for review of the decision.

Mr Nguyen applied for a certificate of compliance on 1 June 2023 under Section 97N of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 that his land has existing use rights.

The relevant 15 year period in this proceeding was from 1 June 2008 to 1 June 2023, meaning that Mr Nguyen used the land for two houses for 15 years before he applied to the council for a certificate of compliance.

The main argument of this case wasn’t that the former dairy shed was converted into a dwelling at some stage, but rather the issue was whether the shed has been continuously used as a second house for the decade and a half.

The Council refused to issue the certificate on various grounds, including the use of the land for more than one house being prohibited and because the evidence submitted by the applicant was insufficient to demonstrate continuous use.

Mr Nguyen had previously made an application for a certificate of compliance in relation to the land.

VCAT Member Karina Shpigel said she would affirm the council’s decision and refuse to grant a certificate of compliance.

“Having regard to the submissions of the parties and the evidence relied upon by Mr Nguyen in the proceeding, I am not persuaded that the applicant’s land has existing use rights for two housings on the basis of 15 years con-

tinuous use, I will affirm the decision of the council and direct that a certificate must not be issued,” Ms Shpigel said in the final statement.

Ms Shpigel said she’s not persuaded this application falls into the category of a ‘repeat application’ or ‘repeat appeal’, which was one of the council’s refusal grounds.

Mr Nguyen self-represented himself in the Tribunal and indicated that he understood the burden on him to satisfy the Tribunal that his land had been continuously used for the 15 years prior to the date of the application.

The VCAT member said she agrees with Mr Nguyen that the relevant standard of proof is on the balance of probabilities and not beyond a reasonable doubt, as submitted by the council.

The VCAT statement reads, “the applicant’s case is that the subject land consists of two dwellings, the existing dwelling at 56 Court-

neysRoad,whichwasconstructedinoraround 1975, and a second dwelling at 56A Courtneys Road, which was built from the conversion of a former dairy shed in or around 1965.”

“The applicant submits the building at 56A Courtneys Road is a self-contained dwelling that consists of two bedrooms, a kitchen, a bathroom, a toilet and wash basin, it also includes an outbuilding.”

The applicant has made recent improvements to the building, the statement reads.

Mr Nguyen called evidence from layperson, Rosemarie Kavanagh.

Ms Kavanagh’s evidence was that since she moved to Courtneys Road in 1998, she has always observed that the dwelling at 56A was occupied as a second dwelling by various people.

“However in response to my questions, she conceded that she did not remember the precise dates or years that the ‘cottage’ was occupied,” Ms Shpigel said.

“Her evidence was that the applicant had assisted her in the preparation of her witness statement and had inserted the dates into her written statement, she also did not have knowledge of many of the occupants’ surnames, these were also provided by the applicant.”

“The statement states that Ms Kavanagh could not remember the exact dates or the duration that 56A Courtneys Road was occupied by the various individuals who lived there and she conceded that she had no personal knowledge about the nature or exact duration of the tenancies. I also agree with the responsible authority that it remains unknown if there were gaps in the use.”

Ms Shpigel said the applicant did not tender any documentary evidence to support his assertion that 56A was continuously used as a second dwelling, such as copies of leases, records of rental income or rental expenses. He also did not call any of the individuals who he submits lived at 56A Courtneys Road during the 15 year period.

Mr Nguyen placed his sole reliance on the evidence of Ms Kavanagh, which at best could be taken as indicating that at various times the house at 56A Courtneys Road appeared to be occupied as a separate dwelling.

The applicant indicated he tried to contact previous tenants, some he was able to get a hold of and some unsuccessful in reaching them, therefore, the evidence Mr Nguyen provided to VCAT was insufficient.

“For all the above reasons, Mr Nguyen has not satisfied me about continuous use of the dwelling at 56A Courtneys Road for a dwelling, as defined for planning purposes, in the relevant 15 year period,” Ms Shpigel said.

“The evidence on which he relies is insufficient and inconclusive and I will not therefore grant the certificate of compliance that he seeks - I will affirm the council’s decision.”

recommendations on a far too common preventable death after a man was crushed by a vehicle in 2021. Picture:

VCAT backs Council’s decision to refuse application for certificate of compliance.

Picture: UNSPLASH, TINGEY INJURY LAW FIRM

Med centre rings changes

By Corey Everitt

One less floor and five fewer practitioners are some of the reductions being considered for the plans of a new medical centre in Emerald, made in an attempt to appease the objections of residents who took the proposal to VCAT.

Cardinia Shire Council granted a permit to a medical centre on 337 Belgrave-Gembrook Road in November 2023, the proposal would house 13 different practitioners into the complex. The overall complex would be four levels, from Belgrave-Gembrook road it would appear as two, the two lower levels constructed to the rear of the site.

The two lower levels would mostly comprise 42 parking spaces that would be accessible from Madigan Way.

However, objectors submitted a review at VCAT where the council, applicant and objectors met in a compulsory conference on 15 March. At the meeting the tribunal issued a consent order after all parties agreed to an amended proposal to be finalised by the applicant.

The new permit will slice off the top floor to only be three-storeys with only a ground-level from Belgrave-Gembrook Road and two sub levels. It will house eight practitioners and have 31 car parks accessible from the rear.

The rear set back to Madigan Way has been significantly increased from 15.3 metres to 25.8 metres.The vehicle entrance from MadiganWay was an issue that saw the proposal deferred for further consideration by the council before the official granting of the permit last year.

The issue related to the impacts from increased traffic and the requirements to upgrade the road. The amended proposal was presented to all parties at anotherVCAT conference on Friday 12 April.

In the next Council Meeting on Monday 15 April councilors will consider a motion to grant the amendments and authorise the council to settle the matter via consent in VCAT. The

original plans for the medical centre before proposed amendments.

Picture:

Pet rego-fee rise quizzed

By Tanya Steele

Fees for pet ownership have been raised significantly since the last financial year and Yarra Ranges residents recently questioned the council over the changes.

Pet registration fees were part of question time at the most recent Yarra Ranges council meeting on 9 April.

Yarra Valley resident Belinda Bernadini said domestic animal registration fees have increased from $40.50 last year to $50 this financial year.

“Even with the sum payable to the Treasurer, these fees seem excessive,” she said.

Ms Bernadini said at her question time that based on current dog and cat registrations, Yarra Ranges receives over $1.5 million in private pet registration fees.

Timothy Lefel of Launching Place had previously asked the council how many dogs specifically are registered in the wards of the council and where the registration fees go in the council meeting on March 26.

Leanne Hurst, Director of Communities said at the March meeting that Yarra Ranges Council has 23,379 dogs registered across the municipality.

“Local councils are required to pay the Treasurer $4.39 for every cat and dog registration and $20 for every domestic animal business registration collected in each financial year (as at 1 July 2023),” she said.

Ms Bernadini asked how the council justifies a 23 per cent increase in these fees in one financial year and how is this providing good governance for the benefit and well-being of the community.

“Frankly, a 23 per cent increase is nothing more than legislative theft,” she said.

Chief executive officer Tammi Rose said in response to Ms Bernadini that pet registration is a legal requirement under the Domestic

Animals Act 1994.

“The pet registration fees serve as a crucial source of funding for the council’s animal management services, ensuring the safety and well-being of pets and the community,” she said.

Cardinia Shire council charges $52 for both cats and dogs to register, while Knox council require for $58 for dogs and $52 for cats - all three councils have varying rates for desexed and other types of animals in a number of categories.

“By paying registration fees, pet owners not only comply with the legal requirements but

also actively support initiatives aimed at marketing responsible pet ownership, including reuniting lost animals with their owners, managing dangerous breeds and addressing animal related concerns within the community.”

Ms Rose said that as part of the council’s commitment to maintaining these essential services, pet registration fees are subject to annual review to ensure that the council is able to meet the growing demands and costs associated with maintaining animal management services and our contracted pound services.

“The reviews involve an annual assessment

of inflation indexation and fee benchmarking with comparable councils,” she said.

“The fees were adjusted as part of a council benchmarking exercise during the 2023 fee review process, and the fee structures were aligned to affect the average of the benchmarked councils.”

Ms Rose said she would also note that pensioner concession is applied and there’s no cost to register approved assistance dogs and guide dogs.

Residents in the Yarra Ranges LGA recently had their pet registrations due by Monday 10 April.

Pet registration fee increases have raised questions from the public at the most recent Yarra Ranges Council meeting. Picture: UNSPLASH

Concern over rise in battery and e-waste fires

Residents are being urged to keep their community safe by not putting batteries or ewaste in their household bins.

E-waste is any item with a battery, cord or plug at the end of its useful life. This includes household batteries, battery-operated toys, vapes and e-cigarettes, devices, and appliances.

Cardinia Shire Mayor Jack Kowarzik has seen an alarming increase in waste and recycling truck fires.

“In 2022, Cardinia Shire didn’t have a single fire in its waste and recycling trucks. This increased to four truck fires in 2023,” he said.

“In just the first few months of this year, there have been three truck fires and one recycling facility fire. These fires are extremely dangerous and put truck drivers, staff and the community at risk, as well as taking valuable resources from the fire authorities to put them out.

“The fires are usually caused by batteries and e-waste being put in household bins.”

E-waste has been banned from Victorian landfill since 2019, which means it cannot go in any household bins. Residents can correctly dispose of their e-waste for free by:

· Booking a hard waste collection

· Taking small household items such as batteries, laptops and mobile phones to any council drop-off locations, major supermarkets, or Officeworks.

· For drop-off locations, go to cardinia.vic. gov.au/ewaste

Dropping items off at a local transfer station. For a list of local facilities, visit cardinia. vic.gov.au/transfer stations For more information visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/ewaste For more information about how to correctly dispose of other common household items, visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/atozwasteguide

Submission trashes system

By Tanya Steele

Six months after a major overhaul in October 2023, the waste collection frequency for general rubbish was in the spotlight at the most recent Yarra Ranges Council meeting on 9 April.

Yarra Ranges Council received an in-depth submission from a Kilsyth resident who described the council’s evidence to support the new waste management policy as ‘deeply flawed’.

Sebastian Quezada presented a thorough presentation to the council against the recently introduced fortnightly general waste collection and in favour of returning to weekly collection schedules.

“This presentation refers to fortnightly collection only and not to FOGO bins,” he said.

Mr Quezada said that overflowing bins and their smell are a problem of volume, not of mass.

“Cutting general rubbish collection into fortnightly therefore inevitably leads to quickly overflowing bins among other problems,” he said.

“Taking out food waste from the rubbish bin takes out a lot of mass but very little volume,” he said.

“..in Maroondah, they found that about 10 per cent of the volume of the rubbish bin is occupied by food only and in Hobson’s Bay they found that only two to six per cent of their FOGO bins are occupied by food in their latest research.”

Through a presentation of personal research, Mr Quezada said that the overflowing waste problem is present in all the municipalities that have cut their general waste collection frequency.

“ So people are not happy about this – most importantly because of the smell created by garbage that is sitting there for two weeks,” he said.

Apart from the smell and overflowing issues, Mr Quezada said that the council’s claims of residents supporting the fortnightly collection were only a ‘small fragment of the Yarra Ranges populace’.

Mr Quezada also said that council claims of how temperature and extended periods between collections do not pose a problem could easily be challenged logically and scientifically.

“These issues can be addressed at length in another future presentation and I would be happy to help the council with this matter as well,” he said.

Mental health matters were part of Mr Quezada’s submission and he said it was an issue that he holds ‘close to his heart’.

“The link between smells and mental health is scientifically well established so by extension the current policy carries the risk of unintended mental health issues for the community.”

Mr Quezada said that when it comes to legislation and costs, there is no obligation or requirement under state government policy to reduce collection frequency and that the council has confirmed this in writing.

“...what is destined for landfill is still going to landfill regardless of whether it is sitting there a week or two weeks,” he said.

Mayor Melba Ward Councillor Sophie Todorov thanked Mr Quezada for his ‘brilliant presentation and submission’ and commended him on his timing before handing the floor over to the other councillors.

Deputy Mayor Chandler Ward Councillor David Eastham said he would like to know the review process that is in place with any indicative dates or timing.

“I commend you for talking about mental health openly and incorporating it into the presentation,” he said.

MayorTodorov said thank you to Mr Quezada for his submission.

“It is rather timely as we come to our six month review as well, so very helpful to hear what you presented to us,” she said.

Director of Planning and Sustainable Futures Kath McClusky said the team are now working through reviewing all the data – which looks at diversion rates around the landfill.

“We hope to have something back in front of the council – probably late June, early July,” she said.

Enquiring about the technology on the collection vehicles O’Shannassy Ward Councillor Jim Child said he would like to ask for an additional audit process from the trucks.

“To get that audit material and pick up whether there are overflowing bins and also check what’s going into the bins,” he said.

Ms McClusky said they would collect the extra data, Lyster Ward Councillor Johanna Skelton said she would like to know about the next steps and how the response to the submitter process will happen.

Ms McClusky said in that terms of the review there will be a series of recommendations that will come out that will then be presented to the council.

“We will work closely with our comms team around getting that message out,” she said.

Mr Quezada said during his submission that there was no complete evidence to change the schedule from general waste bins to fortnightly and that many of the costs could be offset in several ways.

“If anything, the evidence supports maintaining our weekly collections – the current policy has a high risk of creating many more problems while solving none,” he said.

“There are no benefits from this policy, only detrimental outcomes …so I urge the council to bring back our weekly collection.”

The changes have been rolled out as part of Victoria’s standardised four-stream household waste and recycling system. Picture: ON FILE

Intrusive questions, intimidation, suggestive jokes...

Gendered violence comes in many forms.

All are OHS issues. All are unacceptable.

WorkSafe Gendered Violence

Strategy is adopted

By Callum Ludwig

Yarra Ranges councillors have endorsed the next step for the region’s aquatic and leisure facilities at the Tuesday 9 April Council meeting.

Community consultation outcomes were considered and factored into the Aquatics and Leisure Strategy which was adopted and will help inform actions regarding local amenities up to 2033.

The discussion of the item began with a speaker from the gallery named Kathy stepping forward and asking Council what they planned to do with the land left over from the closing of the Kilsyth Centenary Pool.

“Many people are very disappointed because it leaves us without a good facility but what is the plan for the Hawthory Road land, is it going to be redeveloped there with a new leisure facility and a new pool,” she said. “Will it be sold for residential development, if so, will the proceeds of that sale go towards building a new facility,”

“You’re saying it’s going to be 10 years before we can even get a new pool and you’ve got all these outdoor pools, which are supposedly dated, so that means thatYarra Ranges is going to be without a lot of leisure facilities or pools.”

Councillors approved a draft of the strategy for community consultation at the Tuesday 24 October Council meeting, which included the initial decision to close the Kilsyth Centenary Pool due to structural damage to ‘The Dome’ and the increased costs of running the facility. Council estimated it would have cost at leats $2 million for the pool to have been reopened, Director of Built Environment and Infrastructure Hjalmar Phillipp was called upon to help respond to Kathy’s questions and said Council resolved in October what the plan is for the site.

“I’ll read out from the Council minutes, so following decommissioning, maintain the site as open space, in line with current public park and recreation land use, pending community consultation regarding its future use,” he said.

“Effectively, it will be decommissioned, maintain its open space, and nothing will happen until the community is engaged in what might happen next and that intent and objective is included in the draft aquatic strategy on page 17, which refers to exactly that point that we will create a plan first and talk to the community before any action on that site.”

An alternative motion was put forward by Streeton Ward Councillor Andrew Fullagar for the site to be retained as a public park and recreational land in the 24 October 2023 meeting.

Chandler Ward Councillor David Eastham spoke to the item and said 70 per cent of the respondents during community consultation rated the objectives of the strategy a four or five, with five being absolutely in favour, and to him that says Council got a lot right.

“This strategy was very data driven, though

Motorists failing at most basic points of driving

New Victoria Police analysis shows more than 24,000 infringements were issued in a single year for some of the simplest of road rules.

The force is urging people to focus on the foundations of good driving, warning even minor mistakes or inattention can have catastrophic consequences.

Such single acts of non-compliance typically account for more than half of road deaths each year.

The analysis - covering the latest financial year - shows almost 8000 infringements were issued for motorists failing to obey traffic lights alone.

This includes running red lights, ignoring amber lights and disobeying traffic lane signals.

A further 3000 drivers failed to obey stop signs.

Behaviour at intersections was of particular concern.

There were 2000 infringements for failing to give way at intersections and 1300 for ignoring give way signs.

Roundabouts appeared a mystery to many who entered them from the wrong lane, ignored traffic arrows and didn’t give way when they were supposed to.

bikes and on motorcycles.

Infringements include (from 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2023):

· Failure to obey traffic lights - includes running red lights, ignoring amber lights and ignoring traffic lane signals: 7984

when I say data driven, I think that there was a really good balance between community feedback, community insights, balanced really well with the data that was provided to help drive some of those key elements within the strategy,” he said.

“I know that some of the members of facilities such as the Olinda Pool, and we know the history there, I know that they met with officers to discuss, you know, their presence within the strategy and what it meant for them as a facility, as obviously, theirs is unique, how that’s volunteer-run but an absolute success story there. There’s significant investment to keep aquatic facilities up and running and to establish new ones, which we can’t do on our own so I look forward to those conversations progressing with state and federal partners to see what incredible facilities we can upgrade or deliver.”

All other aquatic and facilities will be retained and maintained, while others are slated for upgrades if all goes to plan:

The Monbulk Aquatic Centre will receive an additional program pool, an upgrade to leisure water, an extension of the gym and a new program room

The Yarra Centre will receive a new entry and cafe, an extension of the pool hall to incorporate a new warm water pool, spa and accessible change facilities, redevelopment and expansion of the gym and program rooms and the development of an external fitness zone

The Healesville Outdoor Pool will receive upgrades to improve the condition and life of the 50M pool shell, heating of the pool, an upgrade to the changerooms and potentially a small interactive water play feature.

Lyster Ward Councillor Johanna Skelton seconded the motion and said it’s a big plan with a big impact, but nevertheless leaves enough room in there for changes to happen.

“Obviously they are going to need to happen because we have lost the Kilsyth pool and we really have a big strong need, in particular in the urban area, for a great facility,” she said.

“We’ve got 10 aquatic facilities, including the free water play, for 160 something thousand people, which is a lot of facilities for one council to have and our visitation, I saw that the top-visited centre is the Yarra Centre with 153,000 per year,”

“I had a quick look up of some of the other big councils like Knox and Monash and they have, the number I saw though it may be bigger now, was 800,000 to a million visits per year at one of their facilities.”

Walling Ward Councillor Len Cox OAM, who has been a vocal opponent of the decision to close the Kilsyth Centenary Pool, said he still believes the consideration should be to open or rebuild the pool in Kilsyth.

Despite his reservations, Cr Cox and all the other councillors voted in favour and the motion was passed unanimously.

To the continued astonishment of police, 4300 fines were issued for people not wearing a seatbelt or not wearing one properly.

Victoria Police hopes releasing the figures will prompt road users to think about their behaviour and how it affects the safety of others – especially people walking, riding

· Failure to wear seatbelt or not wearing one properly: 4284

· Failure to obey stop sign: 2935

· Failure to drive sufficient distance behind vehicle: 2177

· Failure to give way at intersection: 2023

· Failure to have headlights and taillights on at night: 1718

The dismantled dome of the Kilsyth Centenary Pool is not set for a rebuild under the newly adopted Aquatic and Leisure Strategy. Picture: FILE

Derelict mansion for sale

By Corey Everitt

Despite years of being left to the elements, one of Cockatoo’s most unique property’s is back on the market and is looking to fetch a sevenfigure price tag.

Many locals would recognise 650 WooriYallock Road as one of the most eccentric looking houses in the area, easily appreciated in full view from passing drivers.

First National Ranges recently announced with excitement the property’s re-entry onto the market with a $1.1 million to $1.2 million listing including the 5.2ha the house sits on.

The catch for a would-be buyer is that it isn’t currently habitable, at least not for humans.

The residence has fallen into a dilapidated state after years of being unoccupied with scores of graffiti across the exterior and interior, damaged windows, overgrown vegetation

and reported evidence of animals taking up brief periods of residency.

According to the First National, the house was originally built by a European couple who settled in town with the dream of constructing a mansion to raise their family. The couple died before the house was fully completed and they had no children, leaving the bespoke residency unoccupied and without an inheritor.

It is a three storey house, First National de-

scribes that it used to provide 14 rooms, four ensuites, a portico, a large entry, three balconies and a spacious courtyard.

Many possibilities are open for anyone with a daring idea, Estate Agent for the property Mick Dolphin said it has natural production value for filmmakers.

“Zombie apocalypse or something similar, it would be perfect for that,” he said.

See more in Real Estate liftout

This well-known property in Cockatoo is back on the market. Pictures: SUPPLIED The property is being listed for over a million.

ANZAC DAY

Where to pay respects

Ferntree Gully

ANZAC Day DawnWatch at Quarry Park, Ferntree Gully, 5:45am.

Watch the Dawn above the mountain and honour the servicemen and women of Ferntree Gully and Upper Ferntree Gully who have given their lives.

A truly unique and memorable experience. Bring a torch and chair if needed.

Bayswater RSL Dawn Service, 5.45am

Emerald RSL Sub-Branch Dawn Service

· Anzac Place, 3 Memorial Avenue, Emerald at 5.30am

· Breakfast will be provided

· March Step Off Point: The Cenotaph, Emerald Town Centre, Emerald 3782

· March Step Off Time: 10.30am

Two-Up and AFL football in the afternoon after the morning service

Dandenong Ranges RSL Sub-Branch

· Dawn Service Anzac Memorial, Cnr Sherbrooke Rd and Mt Dandenong Tourist Rd, Ferny Creek

· 6.30am Breakfast Details: Breakfast available at Ferny Creek Scout Hall, Clarkmont Rd Ferny Creek

· March Step Off Point: Wallaby Avenue, Sassafras

· March Step Off Time: 10:30am

Commemorative Service to be held immediately after the march at the Sassafras Village

Calling all Nashos: Form up

Calling all Nashos, those who were called up for National Service between 1951 and 1972 to march in Melbourne at the annual Anzac Day march to the Shrine of Remembrance.

The National Servicemen’s Association of Australia meet at Flinders Street West (Southside) the opposite side to Young and Jackson Hotel.

Form up is at 8.30am, with step off between 9.20am and 9.30am

Any person who served in the above years is most welcome.

Any inquiries call Peter Kemp on 0427 859 549 or Neil Graham on 0419 193 030.

All National Servicemen are invited to march on Anzac Day to the Melbourne Shrine of Remembrance. Picture: UNSPLASH

The march features all sorts of transport for veterans to participate.

Join Emerald RSL for its march through town as they step off from 10.30am. Picture: ON FILE

The mid-morning march through Sassafras. Picture: DANDENONG RANGES RSL

Upwey is the place to be

Upwey/Belgrave RSL sub-branch is a nonpoker machine ‘country’ venue with a very relaxed and friendly atmosphere.We have strong roots in the community with our large body of local volunteers, and are frequently the venue of school and community group reunions and other events.

With our large outdoor space and play-

ground bordered by a comfortable deck area, we are an ideal space for family celebrations of all kinds.

Our restaurant and bar are fantastic for all functions and the team can tailor to your specific needs.

As a community-based not-for-profit organisation we rely heavily on local support in

Lest We Forget ANZAC DAY

For the time and location of services contact your RSL across the District of Monbulk:

Cockatoo RSL

Dandenong Ranges RSL

Emerald RSL

Gembrook RSL

Monbulk RSL

Upwey-Belgrave RSL

order to carry on our core function of veteran’s welfare, so consider joining the sub-branch, not only for its many benefits, but as a way of supporting returned service personnel and first responders.

We are looking forward to our Anzac Day services this year returning to being the spectacular event of the pre-covid years!

This year we are proud to enjoy the support of Bendigo Bank, Trace Heating and Cooling, Optus, (and the large outdoor screen to maximize the Dawn Service), Rotary, (staffing the ‘Gunfire Breakfast’), CUB, OPACK, St. John Ambulance, 3MDR local scouts and guides and the wonderful cadets of 31 ACU NorwoodRingwood for our catafalque party.

Join the Upwey-Belgrave RSL in commemorating Anzac Day.

Pictures: SUPPLIED The annual Anzac Day service is well-attended.

Inclusion is name of game

By Gabriella Vukman

uniforms for Mountain District Netball

New

Association’s (MDNA) Ranges team are being donned by the club’s‘19s and under’ groups, in efforts to represent the entirety of the Ranges community.

The new dress features kangaroo tracks scattered throughout the design, symbolising the divergent journeys and paths that are taken at the MDNA from the players to skill building and friendship.

MDNA Marketing and Communications coordinator Danielle Colosimo said, “A lot of it started with wanting to bring back what the Ranges club was back in the day.”

“We wanted to find a way to encompass our community a bit further and we are very proud of the indigenous players in our community and we were really lucky to have Miah Pierce, a player that plays for us from the Basin netballers who was very passionate about supporting some change as well.”

“We are hoping that this new uniform change brings us together,” Ms Colosimo said.

Four meeting places that represent the plates, umpires, clubs and people adorn the new dresses and it is the first time the Ranges club has sported an indigenous design on their uniforms.

Ms Colosimo said, “We are in a massive transformational stage at the moment and are focussing on playing as one and being a tightknit community.”

“Miah Pierce from ‘The Basin Netballers’ created the indigenous designs and then I myself worked with Sherwood Sports to collectively design the dress.”

“Working together to design the dress has been a really fun thing that I have been a part of,” Ms Colosimo said.

A survey and some questionnaires were sent out to MDNA members, past and present

Netballers as well as committee members and coaches from the association.

Ms Colosimo said, “We asked them some simple questions such as ‘what does the Ranges club mean to you?’ and ‘what do you remember of the Mountain District Netball Association?’”

“From the questionnaires and surveys there was a really strong theme of bringing our darker colours back.”

“There was a strong passion for the inclusion of our indigenous community and finding a way to encompass all of the clubs on a Saturday that make up the association into the design,” Ms Colosimo said.

The design was worn by the Ranges under

FibrePower!

19s side for the first time last week.

“It was great to see the pride on our players’ faces when the under 19s wore the dresses for the first time,” Ms Colosimo said.

The option to wear shorts and shirts is also in the pipeline at the Ranges club.

Ms Colosimo said, “We have just released the dresses for now but we do have the top and shorts design ready to go and released to our athletes in 2025 for those who are interested.”

“This year we just have the under nineteens wearing the new uniform and the athletes in that age group are happy wearing the new dresses.”

Stereotypes surrounding women in sport and the predominance of women in the Net-

ball sport is a topic of ongoing conversation for the Ranges club.

Ms Colosimo said, “We are now referring to our players as ‘athletes’ and it can encompass males or females, whereas previously it might have been ‘we need the girls to do…etc.’”

“We do have boys playing for us on a Saturday and in our junior competition as well which is something that we are wanting to grow and encourage,” Ms Colosimo said.

“We are in the current planning stages of having a Friday night boys comp as our current boys have expressed that they would love to have their own boys competition as well.”

The mountains at the bottom of the dress design represent the Ranges.

2024 Ranges Netball Squad in their new unifroms. Picture: DANIELLE COLOSIMO

AVEO - LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE

All the supports you need

With a range of in-home services available, Aveo residents can continue living the independent lifestyles they love in their retirement community of choice.

Living well is knowing you have ready access to personalised and flexible support services on hand when you need them.

Aveo’s Oak Tree Hill Retirement Living community in the heart of Glen Waverley empowers residents to live life to the fullest surrounded by friendly and supportive neighbours.

The vibrant community is perfectly located surrounded by 15ha of well-established gardens and serene walking tracks. It is close to major retail facilities, cafes, restaurants, medical facilities including hospitals and neighbouring parklands, while the village’s shuttlebus takes residents to appointments and shopping adventures.

Oak Tree Hill’s residents enjoy independent living with communal facilities on their doorstep, and access to a range of personalised services including domestic support such as cleaning and heavy laundry.

As an approved provider of Commonwealth-funded Home Care Packages, the Aveo team at Oak Tree Hill can guide you and your family through the process of accessing the tailored support you need.

Home-care services can be covered through your government package or Aveo’s fee for service option.

With someone else to take care of the chores, residents have more time to do the things they love in the community’s busy social calendar. Communal facilities include a community centre for social events, library, salon, medical centre, games room and outdoor entertaining areas and a 24/7 emergency call system.

Oak Tree Hill residents have the choice of

Enjoy the comforts of One Tree Hill.

low-maintenance fully equipped two-bedroom villas, all with private fenced backyards they never need to mow!

Pets will be considered with prior approval.

Oak Tree Hill is located at 37 View Mount Road, Glen Waverley, with prices ranging from

$265,000 to $550,000.

To book a tour of the community, call Aveo on 13 28 36 or visit aveo.com.au.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Residents have plenty of communal facilities to enjoy.

Live more comfortably with the extra support offered at One Tree Hill.

More than just game here

Bowling enthusiasts and casual revellers alike, brace yourselves for an unforgettable experience at the Monbulk Bowling Club, located at 11 Moores Road, Monbulk.

This vibrant establishment is not just your run-of-the-mill bowling club; it’s a haven for good times, delectable dining, and a variety of entertainment offerings that will keep you coming back for more.

The Monbulk Bowling Club welcomes guests with open arms and a host of exciting events throughout the week. Dial up the fun on Wednesday nights with the much-anticipated “Parma Night.” Indulge in the classic combo of a traditional parma served with your choice of chips and salad or chips and vegetables, all

for an unbeatable $19. It’s the perfect midweek treat to share with friends or family.

Thursdays take a turn for the tasty with the “Burger and Beer Night.” For just $25, savour a mouth-watering burger paired with a refreshing pot of beer or house wine. The perfect way to unwind and kickstart your weekend early.

Families, mark your calendars for Sundays because at Monbulk Bowling Club, kids eat free with the purchase of a main meal. It’s a fantastic opportunity to gather the family for a delicious feast without breaking the bank. The club opens its doors from 6 pm every Wednesday through Sunday, ensuring that you have plenty of chances to enjoy these delightful specials.

And what’s a Friday without a bit of Happy Hour cheer? From 4 pm to 6 pm, the Monbulk Bowling Club treats you to discounted prices on selected drinks. Quench your thirst with $6.00 schooners, $7.00 basic spirits, and $5.00 house wine. The perfect way to toast the upcoming weekend with friends.

As the weather warms up, don’t miss out on the chance to try your hand at barefoot bowls for just $10 per person. This inclusive offer provides all the necessary equipment and guidance from an experienced bowler. Make sure to book in advance to secure your spot in the sunshine.

Stay in the loop with all the exciting happenings at the Monbulk Bowling Club by fol-

lowing them on Facebook. It’s the best way to catch wind of upcoming events, promotions, and exclusive offers that will make your visits even more enjoyable.

In a world where entertainment options are abundant, the Monbulk Bowling Club stands out as a beacon of camaraderie, culinary delights, and good old-fashioned fun. Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or just looking for a memorable night out, this bowling club has it all. So, roll on over to 11 Moores Road, Monbulk, or give them a call at 9757 6183. The Monbulk Bowling Club awaits, promising an evening of joy, laughter, and making memories to last a lifetime.

Skye is ready to pour you a refreshingly cold drink of choice at Monbulk Bowls Club. 290953

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERSMonbulk Bowls Club offers both the perfect recreational activity and venue for a good meal.

Our volunteers complete a wide range of tasks including sorting, pricing, stacking shelves and retail.

The plant nursery has many good quality, affordable plants and the Nursery team do an incredible job keeping it neat, tidy and wellwatered and they offer some excellent gardening advice. If you love plants join the Nursery

Team today!

There are so many opportunities to volunteer, so we encourage you to consider how you might get involved and what time you can give in supporting others.

Open Door Playgroup

If you have young children or grandchildren

Open Door Playgroup runs every Wednesday morning from 10am - 11.30am in the Open Door Community Church Hall, during School Terms for the cost of a gold coin donation. Our

coordinator, Janet is a highly skilled childhood educator, and this fun-filled, creative program is open to all families and carers with children aged 0-5 years.

For more information contact:

· Open Door Playgroup phone number: 0493 772 924

· Open Door Playgroup email: opendoorplaygroup@gmail.com

· Church Hall: Cnr. David Hill Road and Moxham’s Road, Monbulk, 3793.

Jan,JeniandBarbarasortingthroughdonations. 399242

Pictures:STEWARTCHAMBERSHowardattheregister. 399242

A proud history is on show

The Ambulance Victoria Chas Martin OAM Museum finally opened its doors on Sunday 14 April, inviting all Victorians to experience the proud history of the state’s ambulance service.

The volunteer-run museum houses an extensive collection of vintage ambulances, medical equipment, uniforms, communications equipment and more.

The museum, located in Bayswater, was the brainchild of a group of retired ambulance officers who formed the Ambulance Historic Society of Victoria in 1986.

The group began acquiring and restoring vintage ambulances, starting out with just six vehicles.

The fleet has since grown to 30, including the first Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance vehicle, a mass casualty bus and ambulance motorbikes.

Museum treasurer Darrell Rintoule said the displays provide a terrific account of the state’s pre-hospital emergency care history.

“It’s a great example of where the ambulance service used to be to what it is now,” the former paramedic said.

“Across my time, I’ve seen massive changes and all for the better for patient outcomes.”

More than 20 volunteers, many of them exparamedics, help run the museum.

Forest therapy leaves you ready to face the world anew

By Maria Millers

Have you ever gone on a bush walk or even just a stroll in your local park, botanical garden or nature reserve?

Or, simply spent some time gazing at a glorious sunset or scenic view?

Or even just spending some time tending to your own garden?

Maybe you’ve realised that your interaction with some aspect of nature has left you feeling more relaxed, energized and ready to face the world.

As American poet, Katherine Riegel, writes in this excerpt from her poem, What I Would Like to Grow in my Garden, having a garden, however small or big can be a therapeutic and joyful experience.

Lavender for the bees and because I hate all fake lavender smells. Tomatoes to cut and place on toasted bread for BLTs, with or without the b and the l. I’d like, too, to plant the sweet alyssum that smells like honey and peace, and for it to bloom even when it’s hot, Many of us are feeling overwhelmed when confronted every day with stories and images of violence, death and misery.

We hear of women murdered and abused; of gangs, who appear to be still children, rampaging and committing robberies and assaults.

And yesterday as I sat down to write this article, news started coming through of the horrific knife attack in Sydney’s Bondi Junction Westfield Plaza.

The coverage went on for hours as we heard accounts of the deaths and injuries and the efforts of some brave people ministering to the injured, among them an eight months old baby and her mother.

The cameras were capturing a sense of disbelief that this was happening in downtown Sydney and not somewhere else like LA. Australia seems to have avoided, up till now, the deep social and political divisions

times of turmoil.

WOORILLA WORDS

seen elsewhere around the world and evidence suggests our neighbourhood and community connections remain high.

But the events that unfolded on Saturday will undoubtedly test that belief.

All this against a background of everyday problems: from cost of living, mortgage stress to the spectre of possible homelessness.

Young people increasingly angry that they are bearing the brunt of problems not of their making: facing chronic insecurities in housing and often carrying crippling debts incurred from tertiary education.

Older people are concerned about coping as they get older and frailer.

No wonder many are presenting at their GPs with symptoms of stress and depression.

But there are increasingly those who are turning to nature for renewal and relief.

As Rachel Carlson, author of Silent Spring, a book published in 1962 that inspired the modern environmental movement said: There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature–the assurance that dawn comes after night, and spring after winter.

For some this renewal can be the found in what is called Forest Therapy or Forest Bathing as it is also known as. Originating in Japan in the 1980s as ShinrinYoku it is a therapeutic practice of immersing the senses in nature, often with the help of a guide.

Increasingly, it is being recognized in Aus-

tralia as a program that connects people with nature and not only improves their sense of wellbeing but has also many health benefits: reducing blood pressure and stress to improving immunity and helping with depression.

Of course this is not to be a green light for people with serious health problems to abandon medical advice or prescribed medications.

Currently ParkVictoria runs a Forest Therapy program called Bush Connections for those with disabilities in the Gresswell Forest in suburban Bundoora.

Not only do the participants gain a great deal but they are also involved in maintaining the forest.

There is no reason why such programs can’t be extended to schools, corporates, nursing homes and eco tourism.

The desire to commune with nature is, of course, nothing new and much poetry offers insights into the connection between humanity and nature.

From the Romantics like Wordsworth to Thoreau, Dickinson and Robert Frost to our own Patterson, Lawson, Mackellar and most notably Judith Wright.

Judith Wright’s nature poetry is rich with explorations of the natural world and its significance to human experience.

In her poem Sanctuary written in the early fifties she explores the idea of nature as a sanctuary, a place of refuge and renewal.

In Sanctuary she asks do we know where we are going by destroying our own habitat, native forests, plants and animals?

We see this destruction in the new housing developments built predominantly on the sole calculation of maximum profit rather than consideration for the benefit of not only the displaced habitat for native fauna, but also for the wellbeing of the people living in these new estates. Where are the green spaces for children to play?

Today the poem resonates with its message of nature’s potential to provide solace in

I hope that all those affected by the event on Saturday will be able to find some peace and comfort in nature.

Sanctuary

The road beneath the giant original trees sweeps on and cannot wait. Varnished by dew, its darkness mimics mirrors and is bright behind the panic eyes the driver sees caught in headlights. Behind the wheels the night takes over: only the road ahead is true. It knows where it is going; we go too. Sanctuary, the sign said Sanctuarytrees, not houses; flat skins pinned to the road of possum and native cat; and here the old tree stood for how many thousand years? that old gnome-tree some axe-new boy cut down. Sanctuary, it said: but only the road has meaning here. It leads into the world’s cities like a long fuse laid. Fuse, nerve strand of a net, tense bearer of messages, snap-tight violinstring, dangerous knife-edge laid across the dark, what has that sign to do with you? The immense tower of antique forest and cliff, the rock where years accumulate like leaves, the tree where transient birds and mindless insect sing?

The word the board holds up is Sanctuary and the road knows that the notice-boards make sense, but has not time to pray. Only, up there, morning sets doves upon the power line. Swung on that fatal voltage like a sign and meaning love, perhaps they are a prayer.

The museum is located at 1/55 Barry Street, Bayswater.

Visitors appreciated the huge improvements in medical, communications technology and equipment. Pictures: SUPPLIED

OPEN DAYS & SPECIAL EVENTS Scholarship opportunity

There’s currently a rare opportunity available to join Dandenong Ranges Steiner School via its scholarship program.

“We’re almost at capacity in our Primary School. We currently have a few places available and are offering scholarships for families who might otherwise not be able to afford a Steiner education for their children,” Business Manager Cath Lanigan said.

“We want our school to be accessible to all those who are wanting a Steiner education.We offer the scholarship program so that families in alignment with our philosophy whose financial circumstances make private school fees prohibitive can experience this education,”

“We also keep our fees as affordable as possible for all.”

Scholarship applications are currently open for Prep to Class 6 for commencement byTerm 3 2024 and close on Friday, May 31.

“Families have an opportunity before then to visit our school during a school tour on Tuesday, April 23 or Tuesday, May 14. There is also an Early Childhood Open Day on Saturday, May 18 where teachers will be available to talk with families. Tours can be booked on our website at drss.vic.edu.au and give families an opportunity to see kindergarten and classrooms in action,” Ms Lanigan said.

Dandenong Ranges Steiner School operates an early childhood campus – Playgroup, Kindergarten and Prep – at Menzies Creek and the primary campus – Class One to Class 6- is in Emerald.

Dandenong Ranges Steiner School is part of a worldwide educational movement – one of more than 50 Steiner schools in Australia and more than 1,000 around the world. The primary campus overlooks the beautiful Cardinia Reservoir Park and the Early Childhood campus is in a bushland setting and is often where families start their school journey.

Early Childhood Campus: Open Day Saturday, May 18th 10am-1pm

Primary Campus: Tours Tuesday, 23rd April and Tuesday 14th May

Hard at work when writing.

There’s an exciting opportunity for a scholarship at Dandenong Ranges Steiner School. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Healthcare not accessible

All Australians deserve access to a strong, reliable, and affordable healthcare system that is close to home.

But here in the Yarra Ranges, with an electorate that spans over 2,500 square kilometres, we don’t have a single emergency department within our community.

For residents in remote parts of our electorate - whether it be Reefton,Warburton, Healesville, Powelltown or the towns in between, it can be over an hour’s drive to Maroondah Hospital or the Angliss in their time of need.

That’s why I believe it is time we had a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic here in the Yarra Ranges – a clinic that residents or family members can walk into and be bulk-billed for urgent care.

Writer’s Fest

By Christine Yunn-Yu Sun

The 2024 Melbourne Writers Festival will take place at venues across Melbourne from 8-12 May.

The event features a diverse range of conversations, talks, workshops and panels under the theme of “Ghosts” –“from ghostly characters, ghosts in the machine and ghostwriters to those enduring stories that continue to haunt us,” as described by Readings, the official bookseller.

To start with, two Pulitzer Prize-winning authors will speak about their new books.

Michael Cunningham’s Day, “a pandemic novel that never says ‘pandemic’”, follows one family on the same day (5 April) across three years (2019, 2020 and 2021).

Meanwhile, Viet Thanh Nguyen’s “highly original, blistering, and unconventional” memoir A Man of Two Faces combines personal history with the larger stories of refugeehood and colonisation.

Two authors from the 2023 Booker Prize will also talk about their books. The first is Booker-winning Paul Lynch, whose Prophet Song, a dystopian novel imagining the Republic of Ireland slipping into totalitarianism, was Ireland’s bestselling book in 2023. Meanwhile, Paul Murray’s Booker-shortlisted novel The Bee Sting features a well-to-do Irish family in financial, emotional and existential trouble.

Three past winners of Australia’s own Miles Franklin Literary Award will present their latest masterpieces, starting with Alexis Wright’s Praiseworthy, “an abundant odyssey that contains a formidable vision of Australia’s future”.

Meanwhile, Melissa Lucashenko will discuss Edenglassie, an“epic, heartrending and wryly humorous work”.

Finally, Shankari Chandran will shed light on Safe Haven, “a richly rendered portrait of displacement, refuge and the lengths people will go to for safety and love”.

And Grace Yee, winner of the 2024 Victorian Prize for Literature, will discuss her verse novel Chinese Fish, about “migration, patriarchy and racism”.

Furthermore, Debra Dank, whose 2022 book We Come With This Place won an unprecedented four prizes at the 2023 New South Wales Premier’s Literary Awards, will appear at the panel “The Sands of Time”. Also present will be Robyn Davison, whose new memoir Unfinished Woman tells the legacy of her mother that inspires her bestselling 1980 bookTracks. Assuming you are feeling overwhelmed by the many dazzling prize-winners, let’s shift our focus to other inspiring books and ideas. A highlight is Australia’s own world-leading artificial intelligence expert Toby Walsh, who will examine the possibilities and perils of emerging AI technologies, from ChatGPT to facial recognition and selfdriving cars.

In the last Parliamentary sitting week, I called on the Federal Government to establish an Urgent Care Clinic in our community.

A clinic that is open early and closes late every day of the year, providing urgent care in

a GP setting so you don’t have to travel the distance or experience the lengthy delays of the emergency department.

The reality is that it is getting harder and harder to find a GP appointment. Across the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, we now have just seven fully bulk-billed clinics, with none in some of our largest towns including Lilydale, Healesville and Belgrave.

I recently met with Dr Dan’s Medical Clinic in Monbulk, Yarra Ranges Medical Centre in Wandin North, Belgrave Medical Clinic and representatives from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) who each expressed concerns over falling bulk billing rates and rising costs impacting GPs.

When residents can’t access or afford to

visit their GP, there is a flow on effect to our emergency departments and wider healthcare system.

Disappointingly, of the eight Urgent Care Clinics in Victoria, seven are in Labor or Greens held seats.

What’s worse? Many of these clinics are within a few minutes drive from functioning emergency rooms.

It’s time Labor listened to the residents of the Yarra Ranges and funded a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic that is close to home.

I will continue calling on the government to improve bulk billing and invest in the healthcare our community deserves. You can add your voice to my fight by signing my petition at AaronVioli.com.au/UrgentCare

Character growth makes wartime drama

Civil War

Starring Kirsten Dunst, Wagner Moura and Cailee Spaeny

MA15+

4.25/5

The fourth film from writer-director Alex Garland, Civil War is a riveting, superbly-crafted character drama set against the backdrop of war.

In a near-future America split by civil war, a group of photojournalists make their way to Washington D.C. to witness the end of the conflict.

Kirsten Dunst is phenomenal as Lee, a legendary photojournalist; Lee is stern and professional, numbed by the traumatic events she has witnessed, but compassionate deep down.

highlighted with strategic silence for the terror to sink in. These battles are also often punctuated with evocative photo snaps; these shots add a further layer to the tension, showing these bursts of brutality both as a safe blackand-white archive and the stressful unfolding event itself.

Some viewers may be disappointed with the minimal world-building.

Beyond Nick Offerman as a dictatorial President, we gain little insight on why the US fractured into warring groups (and many have commented on the absurdity of Texas and California being on the same side).

Rounded out by Stephen McKinley Henderson as their wise mentor Sammy, the cast is fleshed-out and compelling, with that one perfect shot as the focal point of their development.

Harsh, visceral and unheroic, the battle sequences feature concussive sound design

As her group, which includes wisecracking colleague Joel (Wagner Moura), press further through war-torn America, the horrors they experience weigh even on these desensitised veterans, while their tagalong Jessie (Cailee Spaeny), who begins as an overwhelmed kid, hardens and grows instincts as a war photographer.

Some may find this shallow, but Civil War is more concerned with everyday people surviving and documenting the chaos than its ideological source (though one scene is a little too blatant with this apolitical ethos). A stark, supremely suspenseful character drama driven by war, Civil War is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

PROPERTY

OAKLANDS - OLD WORLD CHARM MEETS MODERN COMFORT

OAKLANDS - OLD WORLD CHARM MEETS MODERN COMFORT

NESTLED on a sprawling 8792m2 estate, Oaklands is a landmark property that invites you to immerse yourself in a serene haven of lush gardens and timeless elegance. With its picturesque setting boasting rhododendrons, camellias, majestic Oaks, and an abundance of fruit trees including lemon, lime, fig, avocadoes, apples, mulberry, and olives, this property is a true botanical paradise.

Step inside the enchanting 1920’s character weatherboard house, where every corner exudes warmth and charm. Adorned with wrap-around verandah, strapping, picture rails, lead light features and polished timber floors, this home effortlessly blends period features with modern amenities.

The heart of the home is the country-style kitchen, complete with a 5-burner Falcon stove, Asko dishwasher, granite benches, and a bay window offering stunning views of the sprawling yard and beyond to Port Phillip. With two living areas, including a lounge featuring an atmospheric wood fire, relaxation is guaranteed.

Oaklands offers four bedrooms, including a master with a full ensuite, and a spacious family bathroom boasting a clawfoot bathperfect for unwinding after a long day. Gas ducted heating and split systems ensure year-round comfort.

Outside, the fully fenced property boasts two road accesses, ample parking, a large shed, garden shed, and a holding yard for your four-legged friends. Expansive grassed areas provide an ideal playground for pets and children.

For added convenience, solar panels help reduce costs, while a self-contained studio offers versatility - ideal for an adult child, relative, or home office (STCA). You can even continue the current lease if desired.

Located within easy reach of Emerald township and major arterial roads, Oaklands presents a rare opportunity to embrace a country lifestyle without sacrificing convenience.

Don’t miss your chance to make Oaklands your own slice of paradise. Contact us today to arrange your private viewing. ●

MYSTERIOUS MANSION AND LOCAL ICON ON THE MARKET FOR ONLY THE SECOND TIME

NOT for the weak hearted and definitely only suitable for someone with a lot of imagination, determination and vision for something unique that will bring life back into this dilapidated 14-room, 3 level manor!

This eye-catching residence overlooking 5.26 hectares was originally built by a couple from eastern Europe who had hoped for a large family but did not end up having children. They lived there for years but never finished constructing the mansion and once they both passed away and with no family to inherit this property, it has just sat abandoned and unloved for many years.

Ranges First National Real Estate Belgrave and Cockatoo director Mick Dolphin said the property had recently fallen into serious disrepair, with broken windows, graffiti adorning its lime green-painted interiors, various animals that have come and gone and lastly vines & blackberry bushes have now started to swallow the property up!

“If you were filming a movie like a zombie apocalypse or something similar, it would be perfect for that!” said Mr. Dolphin who is selling this property for the second time around.

Viewing of this iconic property is strictly by appointment and due to the damage and nature of the property you will need closed toed shoes, long pants and no children are allowed on site under the age of 14 years said Mr. Dolphin. ●

Mick Dolphin, Director of Ranges First National has this mysterious mansion and local icon on the market - 650 Woori Yallock Road, Cockatoo.

THE ULTIMATE FAMILY ENTERTAINER

NESTLED just a stone’s throw away from the vibrant town of Cockatoo, this 4-bedroom residence offers a cozy retreat perfect for families seeking a peaceful lifestyle.

Step inside and explore a warm and inviting timber kitchen, fully equipped with modern appliances including a dishwasher, gas cooktop, and electric oven—perfect for crafting delicious meals and cherished moments with your loved ones. Additionally, this kitchen boasts a convenient servery window that opens up, providing seamless access to the top deck, where you can enjoy the outdoors while preparing meals.

The master suite beckons with its walk-in robe, ensuite, and a private balcony, offering a tranquil haven for relaxation. Meanwhile, three additional bedrooms, each with built-in robes, provide ample space for children or guests. Need a quiet spot to focus or work from home? The study offers the perfect solution.

Stay cozy all year round with gas ducted heating throughout the home plus a free standing wood heater perfect for those chilly hills nights. Keep cool in summer with a split system cooling and heating unit.

Downstairs, indulge in the massive rumpus/entertaining area complete with a bar, providing the ultimate setting for memorable moments and celebrations. Bi-fold doors seamlessly connect the indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the sense of space and flow.

Outside, the spacious outdoor entertaining area features an open fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for gatherings with family and friends.

This residence offers a peaceful lifestyle while still being within easy reach of local amenities and attractions.

Don’t miss the chance to make this delightful property your family’s new home.

HOME WITH GREAT AMERICAN BARN

THIS property offers fantastic value! There is a beautifully maintained 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home that would be ideal for the largest of families and entertaining and there is plenty of room for the granny flat if you want to bring the in-laws along.

The grand, north facing home with ducted heating throughout is positioned to the front of this flat park like fully fenced block with cleared lawns amongst established trees. When you enter the house through the leadlight feature doors, you will discover split level living in this bright and fresh home. There are 4 bedrooms on the upper level, with the first two offering built in wardrobes and one with a cute bay window for curling up with your favourite book. These bedrooms utilise the family bathroom with a dual vanity, shower and bath. Then discover a third bedroom/study with ceiling fan, before finding the master bedroom to the rear of the home. The master bedroom has a walk in wardrobe, ceiling fan, ensuite and private views over the block.

On the lower level, there is a grand dining room/family room that is open plan with the kitchen and has views out to the expansive, north facing deck. The kitchen is well-appointed and brightly lit with natural light and features electric cooking and plenty of preparation and storage space.

There is then a second large dining/lounge room with a cosy woodfire and split system air-conditioner for the ultimate in year round comfort.

The deck is gorgeous, flooded with sunlight and ready for endless evenings enjoying the sounds and sights of native wildlife.

To the side of the block is a shed with power, and then to the rear of the block is a 3 bay American barn, with 1 bay roller door and a pedestrian door. The barn is insulated, has a concrete floor, power, lights, water available and a mezzanine for all your storage needs. There is also assorted fruit trees, low maintenance lawns and gardens and 6 solar panels to cut those ever rising costs of living.

This fantastic property is conveniently located within moments of the Cockatoo Main Street, yet feels tranquil and privatemake sure this one is on the top of your list for Saturday.

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. ●

4VistaCourt,Gembrook

$840,000 -$895,000

WalktoGembrookMainstreet &EnjoyTheGorgeousGarden! Thisprivate& lowmaintenance3 bedroom,2 bathroomhomeis ashortstrollfromthemainstreet. Featuring2 separatedrivewayentries,thereareplentyofpossibilitieswiththishome.Thehomehas anopenplankitchen/lounge/diningroomthatenjoysviewsouttothebackgarden& hasa split systemAC.Thekitcheniswellequippedwitha gasstove &oven&abutlerspantry.Themaster bedroomenjoysitsownsplitsystemAC,BIRs& ensuite.Thereare 2furtherbedroomsbothwithBIRs. Thereisa lovelyfamilybathroomwith ashower&aseparatebath.Thereisalsoductedheating throughoutthehome& plentyofnaturallight.Outsideis adelightinthefullyfencedbackyard.The manicuredgarden& lawnistranquilwithanarrayoffruittrees.Thereisalsoa securitysystemwith alarm& cameras, &sensorlightingatthefrontofthehome.

BrennanMileto M 0422996451

BethanySullivan M 0438844968

44DevonAvenue,Cockatoo

$1,050,000 -$1,150,000

Lovely 4BedroomHome,ClosetoCockatoowithGreatAmericanBarn!

Beautifullymaintained 4bedroom,2 bathroomhome.Thehomehasductedheating &ispositioned tothefrontofthisflatparklikefullyfencedblockwithclearedlawnsamongstestablishedtrees. Featuring:leadlightfeaturefrontdoor,splitlevelliving, 2bedroomswithBIR,Mastersuitewithensuite, WIR& ceilingfan,familybathroomwith adualvanity,shower &bath, &a 4thbedroom/studywith ceilingfan.Thereis agranddiningroomthatisopenplanwiththekitchen &hasviewsouttothe expansivedeck.Thereis asecondlargeloungeroomwith acosywoodfire &splitsystemAC.The deckisgorgeous&floodedwithsunlight.TotherearoftheblockisaninsulatedAmericanbarn, with 1bayrollerdoor,a pedestriandoor,concretefloor,power,lights&amezzanine.Thereisalsoa handytapnexttothebarn,assortedfruittrees,a shedwithpower, &6 solarpanelswiththehome.

SamanthaScott M 0438680032

9SeaviewStreet,Emerald

$1,100,000 -$1,200,000

NestledinEmeraldisthisDelightful &SpaciousHomeonapprox.3.5acres! Thishomeis adelightwithit’scirculardriveway &grandlobbywith abifurcatedstaircase.This homehasa formaldiningroom,& expansivekitchenwithnaturalgraniteisland &semi-integrated dishwasher,1200mmDoubleFalconOven&awalkinpantry.Thereisa bedroomnearthefrontof thehomewitha WIR& BIR.Thereisalsoa familybathroomwith acornerspabath& shower.On thisflooris acosyloungeroom,witha woodfire &a splitsystemACenjoyingviewsouttothewrap aroundverandah.Downstairsisa kidsrumpusroom &storagearea.Upstairsare 3largebedrooms(2 withBIRs).Themasterbedroomhasa WIR& ensuite.Thishomehasductedheating,a semi-fenced paddock,a gardenshed,establishedgardens,andlovelynaturalbushareaincluding aseasonal creek!

39MainStreet,Gembrook

$780,000 -$850,000

Opportunity,ViewsandIdealLocationAwaitWithThisCharmingCottage! ThismixedzoningpropertylocatedontheGembrookMainStreetisdirectlyoppositetheGembrook PrimarySchool &offersviewstotheWarburtonRanges.Renovatethe2 bedroom,1 bathroomminers cottagewithwelcomingfrontverandah,ordemolish& buildyourdreamhomeorbusiness(STCA)on this1051sqmallotment.Situatedbehind amaintainedhedge,therearetwodriveways,allowingfor plentyofoff-streetparking.Thehomeitselfhas acosyfrontverandah& leadlightfeaturefrontdoor. Enterthehometodiscoverthefrontloungeroomwithopenwoodfire.Thereis amasterbedroom andthenflowthroughtothekitchenwithfreestandingwoodfireandelectricstove/oven.Then discover asecondbedroom.Totherearofthehomeisa generouslaundry,bathroomwith ashower overbath,andmudroom/secondsittingarea.Externallythereisa shedinthefullyfencedrearyard.

KarenPeele M 0419430950

EXCEPTIONAL LIVING WITH BAY VIEWS

BUILT with quality and craftsmanship as a main priority, this beautifully kept and well-maintained property boasts a versatile floorplan, allowing for a variety of living or work purposes.

Bursting with natural light and with stunning views that take in the nearby green valleys and reach out to Port Phillip Bay and also the You Yangs, this home offers three oversized bedrooms, the master with spacious walk-in robe and full ensuite plus a home office (or 4th bedroom) with built in desks.

Open plan and with plenty of space, the main lounge room flows easily into the dining area and modern kitchen that boasts extended butler’s pantry, large island work bench, stainless steel appliances and stone benchtops. Perfect for a Friday night movie, the second living area acts as an ideal theatre / media room with its in-built speakers, allowing for extended living for any size family.

Downstairs, an oversized double garage is linked to a huge workshop area that could potentially become another bedroom, living room or work space. Extended storage throughout this area invites a range of possibilities for the new owner to adapt and expand this already generous floorplan to their needs.

Meticulously detailed, the home also comes complete with ducted vacuum, natural gas plumbed BBQ, double glazed windows, solar hot water alarm system and motorized blinds to the main bedroom.

Heating and cooling is well taken care of with gas ducted heating throughout as well as ducted air conditioning and a wood fire for those wintery months.

Outside, if you can take your eyes of the incredible view, you will also discover excellent parking, caravan carport, 2 x 11,000 ltr water tanks, established, landscaped gardens and a rear balcony where you can sit for hours and take in your new surrounds.

Within an easy walk to public transport and only a short drive from Belgrave, Emerald and Monbulk townships, this exceptional property will impress on every level. ●

Highlyconvenient &centrallylocatedbeingjust ashortstrollawayfromBelgraveTownship, thisdelightfulbright &lighthill residencepresentsanexcellentopportunityforfirsthome buyers,downsizerorinvestorsseekingtoexpandtheirpropertyportfolio.Readytomovein &startenjoyingyournewlife.

BradConder M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

Locatedin aquiet,convenientandsought-afterarea,closetolocalshopsandwithgreat accesstoboth WellingtonRoadandalsoBurwoodHwy,thistwobedroomhomehasbeen pricedperfectlyforfirsthomebuyers,downsizersandinvestorswhoarelookingforan opportunitytosecureahomeatanentrylevelprice.

SharynChandler M 0439882442| E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

Locatedina tranquilyetconvenientlypositionedareaofrapidlyevolvingBeaconsfield,this spaciousfamilyentertainerisbeautifullypresentedandeffortlesslystylish.Readytomove intoandguaranteedtoimpress,20HammerwoodGreenis astandoutpropertysuitablefor bothhomebuyersandinvestors.It’s arealgem!

DanielSteen M 0434979142| E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

Hereinliesa half-acrefamilyhavenwithgorgeousgreenoutlooks,immaculateinterior, enticingoutdoorentertainingareas,andtandemcarportforconvenience.Situateda shortstrollfromSassafrasCreek,BaynesPark,MonbulkAquaticCentre,andMainRoad’s shoppingandcafes,awonderfullifestyleawaitshereforoneluckyfamily.

BradConder M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

PUZZLES QUICK CROSSWORD

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

DECODER WORDFIT 9-LETTER WORD

Gullys go head-to-head

Crowds came out in abundance as the Gully’s went head to head in a local rivalry not seen in 25 years.

The spectacular stage was set at Kings Park for a night game between Ferntree Gully and Upper Ferntree Gully’s senior sides kicking off at 6.30pm.

The Eagles couldn’t quite catch the pace of Upper Gully as they came out firing from the first quarter, leading 12-7 at the break. Heading into half time the Eagles trailed by 15 points, 28-13.

From there they couldn’t recover with Upper Ferntree Gully Stretching out the lead in the second half of the match taking the round 2 win comfortably, 67-28.

While the seniors were the match of the

moment, the day garnered attendance from over 3000 people with the senior women starting the day off with a practice match.

They had a glorious win, 89-0.

The women’s side has made a resurgence this year after having to fold due to not having enough players to field a side.

In more good news for the Eagles, this season the club is fielding two under 19s teams, with the 19.5s merging with South Croydon.

The merger came about with both clubs only having half a side. They scored their first win against South Belgrave 62-27.

Upper Ferntree Gully’s reserves and 19s also scored a win on Saturday 13 April, making it three from three in the men’s competition.

The stage was set under the lights for a local clash not seen in 25 years. Pictures: SUPPLIED Ferntree Gully’s seniors tried to regroup at the third quarter break.

SPORT Blitz obliterates Monbulk

By Armin Richter Football Seniors

The Monbulk Football Netball Club began their 2024 campaign under new coach Matt Cunningham on Saturday with a trip to Upwey.

These teams had met in the final round of 2023, where a draw was played out, but the Hawks on the weekend were a vastly different lineup, with 13 changes from the team of eight months ago.

Matt had been at Heathmont previously and brought Rob Savory (previously with the Hawks and was Monbulk’s leading goalkicker in 2015 with 55), Jayaran Dove and Declan Browne with him from that club, along with Aaron Hoare from Bayswater.

Patty Barge and Nic Wall returned from a year of travel and had been elected captain and vice-captain respectively.

Adam Banks also returned after a year at Bunyip while the rest were changes from within the club.

Under ideal conditions the match was a closely fought contest.

Little separated the teams as the Hawks fought back from an early deficit to take a narrow lead at half time.

Monbulk drew away in the third term and by the five minute mark of the last quarter were holding a two goal lead.

Upwey then kicked 6 goals in 10 minutes to completely turn the game on its head. Monbulk fought out the match but eventually went down by 22 points.

Upwey-Tecoma 11.14.80 def Monbulk

8.10.58

· Best: Lochlan Beecroft, Joshua Spencer, Declan Browne, JoshWentworth, Pat Barge,Will Henderson

· Goals: Josh Wentworth 3, Josh Spencer 2, Pat Barge 1, Ziggy Hatherley 1, Lochlan Sheppard 1

Reserves

The Monbulk Reserves were in a rare position compared to recent seasons, in that they had a large squad of 41 players to select from.

With most of last years’ Under 19s remaining with the club, and stepping up to senior football, there were 19 players who missed out on a game with the Reserves.

On the flip-side, Monbulk was unable to raise a team for either Under 18s or Under 19s as there was a shortage of players in that age group.

The Hawks came up against a seasoned Tigers team that had contested the last few Grand Finals.

Upwey dominated the early stages of the play to grab a match winning lead with 6 of the first 7 goals.

From midway through the second term the Hawks began to break even in many contests but the early onslaught was a decisive factor in the result.

This group will improve as they gain more experience playing together.

Upwey-Tecoma 12.8.80 def Monbulk 4.5.29

· Best: Ben Grimes, Brodie Emmett, Tait Colee, Thomas Berman, Nicholas Taylor, James Whitworth

· Goals: Hamish Emmett 1, Hayden Finlay 1, Brodie Emmett 1, Michael Langworthy 1 Senior Women’s

Monbulk and Emerald opened the season in Division 2 of the Senior Women’s competition on Friday night in front of a large crowd at Monbulk, where Emerald were making their debut as a senior team.

The combined Emerald-Monbulk Under 18s girls team had won the premiership in their Division, playing in the Eastern League in 2023, and both sides were bolstered by players from that team.

Monbulk also welcomed back former junior Emma Horne who had spent time at Richmond and Casey since being drafted from

Monbulk at pick 73 in the 2019 AFLW Draft.

The two sides were evenly matched in the first quarter but two goals in three minutes at the start of the second term gave the Hawks a break and they never looked back.

It was an entertaining and free flowing game as both teams were playing an attacking style of football.

Monbulk used the corridor well, along with giving their outside runners plenty of opportunities to drive the ball forward.

Contested marking, shepherding the ball carrier and link up play was a feature of the Hawks as they went on to record an emphatic 41 point win to open their campaign.

After a tough and winless 2023, it was their first victory since claiming the 2022 premiership.

It was a night of milestones as Laura Gillard played her 200th career game (including juniors and a stint at Ferntree Gully) while Claire Scully and Jennifer Pauw celebrated their 50th appearances with the Hawks.

Monbulk 8.6.54 def Emerald 2.1.13

· Best: Ruby Ross, Jade McCormick, Kathryn Gow, Shania Turner, Brielle Tipping, Hannah Joy, Emma Horne

· Goals: Jade McCormick 3, Laura Gillard 2, Kathryn Gow 1, Brielle Tipping 1, Claire Scully 1

Netball

A Grade

Monbulk had built a strong squad over the summer and this was to prove vital for their opening encounter.

Defender Tiana Mancarella had gone down with a season ending ACL three weeks ago and another 4 players were also unavailable.

Two of the B team stepped up to fill the void.

The return of Stephanie Ferguson (Puopolo) from having her second child provided the Hawks with a dominant Goal Attack.

The new club captain teamed well with club debutant Elly Stewart (GS) to combine for 68 goals. At the other end Abbey Whitaker, Georgia Himmelreich and Rihanna Kelly stifled the Upwey scoring.

They have taken top spot on the ladder after the first round and will face a big challenge against Wandin this week with confidence. Monbulk 68 def Upwey-Tecoma 46

· Best: Stephanie Ferguson , Georgia Himmelreich, Rihanna Kelly

· Goals: Elly Stewart 41, Stephanie Ferguson 27

B Grade

The Monbulk B Grade squad was virtually unchanged from last year, with just the addition of Goal Shooter Jorja Wragg, who was recently selected in the Victorian 17 and Under squad. Monbulk controlled the play from the outset and won each quarter comfortably.

Monbulk 67 def Upwey-Tecoma 42

· Best: Georgia Wilson, Jorja Wragg, Siobhan Munday

· Goals: Jorja Wragg 39, Dayna Walsham 26, Chloe Schmidtke 2

C Grade

The C Grade girls set up their win in the first quarter when their attacking game was rewarded on the scoreboard as Jamie Sands was in great shooting form.

This squad remains largely the same as last year, with the addition of Grace Sands returning (125 games 2008-2017) and Kate Smith up from D Grade.

Monbulk 40 def Upwey-Tecoma 30

· Best: Sammi Kelly, Grace Sands, Jamie Sands

· Goals: Jamie Sands 26, Grace Sands 14

D Grade

This team battled against the odds after reforming last year and look to be a much better side this year.

The skills and ball movement were a noticeable improvement against Upwey and the squad has been able to add a bit more height in the forward half.

Although they came up short against Upwey, they will be a team to watch as they implement their game style in the weeks ahead.

Upwey-Tecoma 34 def Monbulk 19

· Best: Hayley Donald, Eireann Lawson, Ella Flynn

· Goals: Maddy Buckland 10, Hayley Donald 8, Ella Flynn 1

Under 15s

In one of the highlights of the weekend, the Monbulk FNC fielded its first ever Under 15s team. This inaugural team, coached by Nicole Macdowell and Tom Hardwick, travelled to Berwick and, in a thrilling encounter, came away with a first up win to start their journey.

Apart from Woori Yallock, the other teams in the Under 15 East Division come from the South East corridor, from NarreWarren to Pakenham.

Monbulk 25 def Berwick 23

· Best: Kaitlyn Summers, Lara Stenhouse, Isabelle Cross

· Goals: Kaitlyn Summers 17, Lara Stenhouse 8

Outer East Football Netball League Scoreboard

Belgrave 25.12.162 def Yarra Glen 8.5.53; Healesville bye

· Reserves: Powelltown 9.6.60 def Yarra Junction 6.9.45; Alexandra 14.9.93 def Yea 0.6.6; Seville 9.11.65 def Warburton-Millgrove 3.6.24; Belgrave 23.17.155 def Yarra Glen 0.3.3; Healesville bye

UNDER 19s

· Narre Warren 15.13.103 def Pakenham

4.7.31; Upwey-Tecoma 13.14.92 defWandin 1.8.14; Officer 9.10.64 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 6.6.42

UNDER 18s

· Mt. Evelyn 13.14.92 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 6.7.43; Woori Yallock 13.15.93 def Seville 3.5.23; Healesville 14.14.98 def UpweyTecoma 4.8.32

SENIOR WOMEN

· Division 1: Berwick Springs 2.4.16 def Belgrave 1.3.9; Upwey-Tecoma 4.4.28 def Pakenham 1.5.11; Healesville 4.14.38 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 3.2.20

· Division 2: Monbulk 8.6.54 def Emerald 2.1.13; Warburton-Wesburn 9.9.63 def Seville 5.7.37; Woori Yallock 5.14.44 def Officer 1.4.10; Wandin 8.10.58 def ThorntonEildon 0.3.3

NETBALL:

PREMIER DIVISION

· A Grade: Narre Warren 53 def Pakenham 38; Wandin 55 def Mt. Evelyn 45; Monbulk 68 def Upwey-Tecoma 46; Emerald 67 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 46; ROC 44 def Woori Yallock 40; Gembrook-Cockatoo 50 def Berwick Springs 37

· B Grade: NarreWarren 49 def Pakenham 36; Mt. Evelyn 52 def Wandin 31; Monbulk 67 def Upwey-Tecoma 42; Olinda-Ferny Creek 47 def Emerald 44; ROC 72 def Woori Yallock 50; Gembrook-Cockatoo 45 def Berwick Springs 25

· C Grade: Pakenham 31 def Narre Warren 27; Wandin 29 def Mt. Evelyn 18; Monbulk 40 def Upwey-Tecoma 30; Emerald 37 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 25; ROC 58 def Woori Yallock 19; Gembrook-Cockatoo

Woori Yallock 12; Berwick Springs 23 def def Gembrook-Cockatoo 11 DIVISION ONE

· A Grade: Yarra Junction 78 def Powelltown 19; Alexandra 52 def Yea 38; WarburtonMillgrove 49 def Seville 43;Yarra

Wandin and Mount Evelyn had a week off after playing in their opening round clash on 6 April. Picture: ON FILE

Johnathan Hevern (5) of Monbulk competes with two Tigers in the air. Picture: SUPPLIED

Adam Bunn .............................................................23

Greg Spence...........................................................25

Michael Robinson...................................................28

Aaron Violi MP ........................................................30

Cal Ludwig ..............................................................24

Ron Munday ...........................................................28

Sam Failla ...............................................................31

Micah Calheiros......................................................30