WITH the fire season just around the corner, hundreds of Yarra Ranges residents will gather in Lilydale next month to talk about preparing, surviving, recovering from and living with bushfires.
The third annual Living with Bushfire Community Conference will be held at Box Hill Institute’s Lillydale Lakeside campus on Friday 7 and Saturday 8 October.
BHI’s Manager of Community Relationships Andrea Read said the event was in its third year, but that organisers had a clean slate when it came to organising the Yarra Ranges event.
She said the event covered all facets of living in a community with a high bushfire risk, particularly in the aftermath of 2009’s Black Saturday bushfires.
“It’s really just about sharing as much experience as we possibly can in this particular region,” Ms Read said.
“A lot of it is to get agency people understanding community, and the community understanding agency.”
Each day will have welcoming statements from dignitaries, followed by speeches from speakers, such as Emergency Management Commissioner Craig Lapsley, followed by Q&A panels and then four rooms of activities through the afternoon.
The rooms are split into themes of Personal, Place, Community and Workshops, and focus on aspects such as looking after country, resilience, preparing pets, emergency relief and engaging youth.
“There’s little things, like talk about bunkers – a lot of people have what they think is a safe bunker … but a lot of the bunkers aren’t up to scratch,” Ms Read said.
“It’s about knowing what you’re actually going to do in the situation – and it’s more than sitting down and writing a fire plan.
“It’s about really engaging and knowing that these particular services will happen, or this is what’s actually going to occur, and am I safe in this particular area; if the worst case scenario happens, what do I do about it?”
She said the event wasn’t about telling “horror stories”, but rather talking about the unpredictability of fire, and how to live in bushfire-prone areas safely.
Visitors to the conference will walk away with “an understanding of their place in a bushfire scenario”, Ms Read said.
“And the skills to actually manage that, going into, during and after; that they know what measures they’ll need to take and if the worst case scenario happens, then they know that on the other side of it, they actually will be okay.”
Ms Read said speakers for the event, many of whom were experts in their field, had donated their time to make presentations at the event.
“That’s the really good thing about it, is that the people who are presenting are doing it just because they believe this is an important issue,” she said.
For the first time in the event’s three years, a youth symposium was run before the conference with Year 9-12 students from Lilydale High School, Lilydale Heights, Cire Services and Doncaster Secondary College.
“It’s the first time it’s ever been done, looking at how the youth perceive this – we worked with Parks Victoria and the CFA closely on this particular project and it’s one that we’ve all said ‘We need to do this every year, regardless of the conference’,” Ms Read said.
“I remember walking in the room and one of the things on the board that one of the kids had written was, ‘Don’t have a teacher tell me, have someone who actually experienced it tell me,’ – they all sort of came out of it saying they had a much better understanding.”
The students in the symposium will present their experiences to the conference over the weekend.
Entry to the conference, which is sponsored by the CFA, the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), MFB, Melbourne Water, Box Hill Institute, Parks Victoria, Victoria Police, VicRoads and Yarra Ranges Council, is $20 per person per day, which includes morning and afternoon tea and lunch.
A dinner event will be held at Mitchell’s View restaurant on the campus on Friday, 7 October from 6pm, and entry is $50 per person.
For more information, visit www.boxhill.edu.au/bushfireconference2016. Those without internet access can visit the BHI campus at Jarlo Drive in Lilydale or call 9286 9298.

WITH the fire season just around the corner, hundreds of Yarra Ranges residents will gather in Lilydale next month to talk about preparing, surviving, recovering from and living with bushfires. The third annual Living with Bushfire Community Conference will be held at Box Hill Institute’s Lillydale Lakeside campus on Friday 7 and Saturday 8 October. BHI’s Manager of Community Relationships Andrea Read said the event was in its third year, but that organisers had a clean slate when it came to organising the Yarra Ranges event. She said the event covered all facets of living in a community with a high bushfire risk, particularly in the aftermath of 2009’s Black Saturday bushfires. “It’s really just about sharing as much experience as we possibly can in this particular region,” Ms Read said. “A lot of it is to get agency people understanding community, and the community understanding agency.” Each day will have welcoming statements from dignitaries, followed by speeches from speakers, such as Emergency Management Commissioner Craig Lapsley, followed by Q&A panels and then four rooms of activities through the afternoon. The rooms are split into themes of Personal, Place, Community and Workshops, and focus on aspects such as looking after country, resilience, preparing pets, emergency relief and engaging youth. “There’s little things, like talk about bunkers – a lot of people have what they think is a safe bunker … but a lot of the bunkers aren’t up to scratch,” Ms Read said. “It’s about knowing what you’re actually going to do in the situation – and it’s more than sitting down and writing a fire plan. “It’s about really engaging and knowing that these particular services will happen, or this is what’s actually going to occur, and am I safe in this particular area; if the worst case scenario happens, what do I do about it?” She said the event wasn’t about telling “horror stories”, but rather talking about the unpredictability of fire, and how to live in bushfire-prone areas safely. Visitors to the conference will walk away with “an understanding of their place in a bushfire scenario”, Ms Read said. “And the skills to actually manage that, going into, during and after; that they know what measures they’ll need to take and if the worst case scenario happens, then they know that on the other side of it, they actually will be okay.” Ms Read said speakers for the event, many of whom were experts in their field, had donated their time to make presentations at the event. “That’s the really good thing about it, is that the people who are presenting are doing it just because they believe this is an important issue,” she said. For the first time in the event’s three years, a youth symposium was run before the conference with Year 9-12 students from Lilydale High School, Lilydale Heights, Cire Services and Doncaster Secondary College. “It’s the first time it’s ever been done, looking at how the youth perceive this – we worked with Parks Victoria and the CFA closely on this particular project and it’s one that we’ve all said ‘We need to do this every year, regardless of the conference’,” Ms Read said. “I remember walking in the room and one of the things on the board that one of the kids had written was, ‘Don’t have a teacher tell me, have someone who actually experienced it tell me,’ – they all sort of came out of it saying they had a much better understanding.” The students in the symposium will present their experiences to the conference over the weekend. Entry to the conference, which is sponsored by the CFA, the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), MFB, Melbourne Water, Box Hill Institute, Parks Victoria, Victoria Police, VicRoads and Yarra Ranges Council, is $20 per person per day, which includes morning and afternoon tea and lunch. A dinner event will be held at Mitchell’s View restaurant on the campus on Friday, 7 October from 6pm, and entry is $50 per person. For more information, visit www.boxhill.edu.au/bushfireconference2016. Those without internet access can visit the BHI campus at Jarlo Drive in Lilydale or call 9286 9298.

THE AUSTRALIAN Doctors Orchestra will perform a special fund-raising concert on 9 October at The Memo in Healesville to support the renovations of Healesville and District Hospital.
The orchestra will present The Lark, and funds raised will be forwarded to new equipment for the hospital.
Conducted by Warwick Stengards, The Lark will showcase the musical talents from The Australian Doctors Orchestra, a group of passionate classically trained medical professionals from across Australia.
One of the performers, violinist Dr Vivian Wu, is also a surgeon at Maroondah Hospital in Ringwood.
Dr Wu said she was delighted to be a part of the event.
“Healesville and District Hospital holds a very special place with the local community, and I’d encourage everyone to come along to the concert,” Dr Wu said.
“Not only will you be supporting a terrific fund-raising effort, but you’ll hear some great classical music as well.”
Eastern Health Foundation Director, Anne Gribbin said she was grateful for the Australian Doctors Orchestra support.
“We are humbled by their incredible generosity and look forward to what I’m sure will be a wonderful performance,” Ms Gribbin said.
The performance will begin at 2pm.
Tickets cost $35, $30 for concession, $15 for children and under five are free.
For more information, call 1300 368 333 or visit culturetracks.info.

THE AUSTRALIAN Doctors Orchestra will perform a special fund-raising concert on 9 October at The Memo in Healesville to support the renovations of Healesville and District Hospital. The orchestra will present The Lark, and funds raised will be forwarded to new equipment for the hospital. Conducted by Warwick Stengards, The Lark will showcase the musical talents from The Australian Doctors Orchestra, a group of passionate classically trained medical professionals from across Australia. One of the performers, violinist Dr Vivian Wu, is also a surgeon at Maroondah Hospital in Ringwood. Dr Wu said she was delighted to be a part of the event. “Healesville and District Hospital holds a very special place with the local community, and I’d encourage everyone to come along to the concert,” Dr Wu said. “Not only will you be supporting a terrific fund-raising effort, but you’ll hear some great classical music as well.” Eastern Health Foundation Director, Anne Gribbin said she was grateful for the Australian Doctors Orchestra support. “We are humbled by their incredible generosity and look forward to what I’m sure will be a wonderful performance,” Ms Gribbin said. The performance will begin at 2pm. Tickets cost $35, $30 for concession, $15 for children and under five are free. For more information, call 1300 368 333 or visit culturetracks.info.

SENSORY mats designed to help people living with intellectual disabilities relieve stress will be on display at Mont De Lancey next month, following an outpouring of community support.
An exhibition of more than 200 sensory mats will be held at Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead through October, organised by the Seville Community House.
Glenice Hopes from the community house said the sensory mats were designed to help people living with intellectual disabilities, or who are on the autism spectrum, and feature objects and textured fabrics that can be felt or played with to help with relaxation.
“They work as a calm-you-down, stress relief, anxiety relief sort of thing,” Ms Hopes said.
She said the community house asked residents to help make mats and donate them to the house, and that more than 200 were made and handed in.
“I worked in the aged care sector for many years, and prior to that, the disability sector, so I understand the need and the wonderful work that these sensory maps … actually do,” she said.
“We were looking to do something as a community project, and this is where it grew from.
“There’s actually flat mats with all sorts of things sewn on them, like buttons, zips … there’s flat mats, there’s cushions … there’s also woodwork boards for those that want it.”
Ms Hopes said Mont De Lancey donated their gallery space for the exhibition, and that special schools, nursing homes and residents were being invited to come out to the exhibition.
“What will happen is people are going to come … and if anyone wants one, we take it off the wall and we give it to them,” she said.
The sensory mats will be free of charge, though Ms Hopes said donations were being accepted – as were further donations of sensory mats.
The exhibition opens on 1 October and runs until the end of the month at Mont De Lancey, 71 Wellington Road, Wandin North.

SENSORY mats designed to help people living with intellectual disabilities relieve stress will be on display at Mont De Lancey next month, following an outpouring of community support. An exhibition of more than 200 sensory mats will be held at Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead through October, organised by the Seville Community House. Glenice Hopes from the community house said the sensory mats were designed to help people living with intellectual disabilities, or who are on the autism spectrum, and feature objects and textured fabrics that can be felt or played with to help with relaxation. “They work as a calm-you-down, stress relief, anxiety relief sort of thing,” Ms Hopes said. She said the community house asked residents to help make mats and donate them to the house, and that more than 200 were made and handed in. “I worked in the aged care sector for many years, and prior to that, the disability sector, so I understand the need and the wonderful work that these sensory maps … actually do,” she said. “We were looking to do something as a community project, and this is where it grew from. “There’s actually flat mats with all sorts of things sewn on them, like buttons, zips … there’s flat mats, there’s cushions … there’s also woodwork boards for those that want it.” Ms Hopes said Mont De Lancey donated their gallery space for the exhibition, and that special schools, nursing homes and residents were being invited to come out to the exhibition. “What will happen is people are going to come … and if anyone wants one, we take it off the wall and we give it to them,” she said. The sensory mats will be free of charge, though Ms Hopes said donations were being accepted – as were further donations of sensory mats. The exhibition opens on 1 October and runs until the end of the month at Mont De Lancey, 71 Wellington Road, Wandin North.

A TEAM of 10 Californian Conservation Corps volunteers removed more than 15,000 sweet pittosporum seedlings from Cardinia Dam earlier this month.
The work took over three days and was part of a new Pittosporum Control Program in the Dandenong Ranges.
The control program is focused on public and private lands along the sweet pittosporum invasion track from Menzies Creek to the Cardinia Dam.
The weed achieves dominance and with them – there will be no understory plants, native shrubs, wild-flowers or native orchids.
The sweet pittosporum is an Australian native, which evolved in South Eastern Queensland and then migrated south across the cool valleys.
According to Dandenong Ranges group, StopPitt, the Menzies Creek pittosporum study site was established after one tree was planted in a Menzies Creek garden about 70 years ago.
Blackbirds then carried it over the garden fence and resulting in about 6000 pittosporum seedlings per hectare 200 metres away, around the study site.
Agricultural scientist Jeff Walker in the 1940s as a child and again 70 years later, permitted the observations, and then led to a citizen science project with the Menzies Creek Primary school in 2012/13.
The study led to a research paper with Professor Ros Gleadow from Monash University and to a $50,000 grant four months later, as well as the formation of StopPitt.
The Pittosporum Control Program was funded by a recent grant of $250,000 from the Federal Landcare budget, which was announced recently by the then Environment Minister, Greg Hunt, at the pittosporum study site in Menzies Creek.
StopPitt are looking for volunteers to join the program.
To register your interest, email stoppitt@internose.on.net

A TEAM of 10 Californian Conservation Corps volunteers removed more than 15,000 sweet pittosporum seedlings from Cardinia Dam earlier this month. The work took over three days and was part of a new Pittosporum Control Program in the Dandenong Ranges. The control program is focused on public and private lands along the sweet pittosporum invasion track from Menzies Creek to the Cardinia Dam. The weed achieves dominance and with them – there will be no understory plants, native shrubs, wild-flowers or native orchids. The sweet pittosporum is an Australian native, which evolved in South Eastern Queensland and then migrated south across the cool valleys. According to Dandenong Ranges group, StopPitt, the Menzies Creek pittosporum study site was established after one tree was planted in a Menzies Creek garden about 70 years ago. Blackbirds then carried it over the garden fence and resulting in about 6000 pittosporum seedlings per hectare 200 metres away, around the study site. Agricultural scientist Jeff Walker in the 1940s as a child and again 70 years later, permitted the observations, and then led to a citizen science project with the Menzies Creek Primary school in 2012/13. The study led to a research paper with Professor Ros Gleadow from Monash University and to a $50,000 grant four months later, as well as the formation of StopPitt. The Pittosporum Control Program was funded by a recent grant of $250,000 from the Federal Landcare budget, which was announced recently by the then Environment Minister, Greg Hunt, at the pittosporum study site in Menzies Creek. StopPitt are looking for volunteers to join the program. To register your interest, email stoppitt@internose.on.net

A MAN from The Basin will face court after allegedly snatching a woman’s handbag at a Boronia venue earlier this month and stealing money from it.
An 88-year-old woman was in a gaming room around noon on Wednesday 7 September. While there, she was allegedly being watched by a 26-year-old The Basin man.
When leaving the venue, the man allegedly snatched the elderly woman’s handbag, which contained a large sum of money and personal effects, including her deceased husband’s jewellery and pushed her to the ground before running away.
The venue’s staff rushed to the assistance of the woman, who uses a walking frame, and called police.
Knox Crime Investigation Unit (CIU) Detectives investigated the crime and, after speaking to venue staff, found the man back at the venue on Friday 16 September.
The man told police where he disposed of the bag, and it and the jewellery were recovered – but the cash was taken.
The man has been charged with robbery and was bailed to appear at Ringwood Magistrates’ Court at a later date.

A MAN from The Basin will face court after allegedly snatching a woman’s handbag at a Boronia venue earlier this month and stealing money from it. An 88-year-old woman was in a gaming room around noon on Wednesday 7 September. While there, she was allegedly being watched by a 26-year-old The Basin man. When leaving the venue, the man allegedly snatched the elderly woman’s handbag, which contained a large sum of money and personal effects, including her deceased husband’s jewellery and pushed her to the ground before running away. The venue’s staff rushed to the assistance of the woman, who uses a walking frame, and called police. Knox Crime Investigation Unit (CIU) Detectives investigated the crime and, after speaking to venue staff, found the man back at the venue on Friday 16 September. The man told police where he disposed of the bag, and it and the jewellery were recovered – but the cash was taken. The man has been charged with robbery and was bailed to appear at Ringwood Magistrates’ Court at a later date.

A 56-year-old man from Vermont has been charged with murder after the discovery of a man’s body in Upper Ferntree Gully on Saturday 17 September.
The deceased man, a 39-year-old from Noble Park, was found by a passerby in a car park off Rollings Road shortly after 3pm on Saturday afternoon.
Homicide squad detectives attended an address in nearby suburb Vermont at about 9pm on Monday 19 September.
The Vermont man has been charged with one count of murder and remanded in custody to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court later today, Tuesday 20 September.

PREVIOUSLY:THE body of an unknown man found by a passerby in Upper Ferntree Gully on Saturday, 17 September, is being treated as suspicious by Victoria Police.
Early reports say the man, believed to be in his thirties, was found in a car park off Rollings Road just after 3pm, and as of Monday 19 September, had not been identified.
Other media outlets reported paramedics attended the scene, but were unable to resuscitate the man.
They said the body was found about two metres from the fence of Upper Ferntree Gully Preschool.
Homicide detectives are yet to determine the cause of death, and are investigating the incident.
Victoria Police Sergeant Anthoula Moutis told the Mail that “the investigation is current and ongoing”, and made no further comment.
Upper Ferntree Gully CFA Captain Peter Smith said “everybody” had been asking about the incident since Saturday afternoon.
“It’s the million dollar question, really,” he said.
“I think we’re all guessing it is criminal activity, but no-one really knows.”
The Upper Ferntree Gully CFA is based across the road from the crime scene, and Capt Smith said the location of the incident in particular was “disappointing”, but that it was lucky that no children were at the kindergarten.
“We’re thankful kinder wasn’t on today, because that would be horrible for the kids to see,” Capt Smith said.
He said there had been no incidents like this in the area in the past.
“We’ve had car accidents in the past that were drug-related, but nothing like this,” Capt Smith said.
“We always thought it would be crime-free, but now it’s moving to this area.
“I hope it’ll have minimal effects on the area – it’s too good of a place.”
The body was located in a busy area of the suburb, a short distance from the Angliss Hospital and other community amenities.
Anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious behaviour at the time of the incident, or who may have more information, is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or to file a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

A 56-year-old man from Vermont has been charged with murder after the discovery of a man’s body in Upper Ferntree Gully on Saturday 17 September. The deceased man, a 39-year-old from Noble Park, was found by a passerby in a car park off Rollings Road shortly after 3pm on Saturday afternoon. Homicide squad detectives attended an address in nearby suburb Vermont at about 9pm on Monday 19 September. The Vermont man has been charged with one count of murder and remanded in custody to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court later today, Tuesday 20 September. PREVIOUSLY:THE body of an unknown man found by a passerby in Upper Ferntree Gully on Saturday, 17 September, is being treated as suspicious by Victoria Police. Early reports say the man, believed to be in his thirties, was found in a car park off Rollings Road just after 3pm, and as of Monday 19 September, had not been identified. Other media outlets reported paramedics attended the scene, but were unable to resuscitate the man. They said the body was found about two metres from the fence of Upper Ferntree Gully Preschool. Homicide detectives are yet to determine the cause of death, and are investigating the incident. Victoria Police Sergeant Anthoula Moutis told the Mail that “the investigation is current and ongoing”, and made no further comment. Upper Ferntree Gully CFA Captain Peter Smith said “everybody” had been asking about the incident since Saturday afternoon. “It’s the million dollar question, really,” he said. “I think we’re all guessing it is criminal activity, but no-one really knows.” The Upper Ferntree Gully CFA is based across the road from the crime scene, and Capt Smith said the location of the incident in particular was “disappointing”, but that it was lucky that no children were at the kindergarten. “We’re thankful kinder wasn’t on today, because that would be horrible for the kids to see,” Capt Smith said. He said there had been no incidents like this in the area in the past. “We’ve had car accidents in the past that were drug-related, but nothing like this,” Capt Smith said. “We always thought it would be crime-free, but now it’s moving to this area. “I hope it’ll have minimal effects on the area – it’s too good of a place.” The body was located in a busy area of the suburb, a short distance from the Angliss Hospital and other community amenities. Anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious behaviour at the time of the incident, or who may have more information, is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or to file a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

DREAMS have come true for two Yarra Valley Enduro riders at the end of their championship season.
Three Bridges man Daniel ‘Chucky’ Sanders won the outright Yamaha Australian Off-Road Championship in Penshurst, Victoria and won the E3 class.
The 18-year-old young gun from Gladysdale, Lyndon Snodgrass started off slow but finished strongly in third place in the E3 and 12th place for the season.
Difficult conditions and torrential weather made the race difficult, but proved no match for Sanders and Snodgrass.
Sanders said he was confident heading into this year’s season.
“I knew at the end of last year that I was in good form for a red-hot shot this year but the pressure wasn’t there at all and I just pushed through to be that number one rider,” Sanders said.
“I won every race but two this year due to torn ligaments in my ankle but it’s been great to push through, work hard and win.
“The goal was to win it.”
It was a fight for first place between Snodgrass and Sanders, but a small stop on one of the hills allowed Sanders to take the lead, finishing just seconds apart.
“Lyndon was behind me in second for two of the races only four seconds apart, and then the other riders were at least a minute after us,” Sanders said.
“Lyndo placing third in the E3 class is a massive achievement.”
For Snodgrass, competing at an E3 level is a great achievement.
“It’s pretty awesome,” he said.
“Being only 18 I’m pretty happy with how I’ve been doing and I definitely hope to make a career out of it and I’ll keep training hard to hopefully do so.”
He said there’s only one major event for him to compete in this year at the Australian four-day Enduro in Mansfield in November.
Sanders will compete at the FIM International Six Days of Enduro in Spain between 11 and 16 October.

DREAMS have come true for two Yarra Valley Enduro riders at the end of their championship season. Three Bridges man Daniel ‘Chucky’ Sanders won the outright Yamaha Australian Off-Road Championship in Penshurst, Victoria and won the E3 class. The 18-year-old young gun from Gladysdale, Lyndon Snodgrass started off slow but finished strongly in third place in the E3 and 12th place for the season. Difficult conditions and torrential weather made the race difficult, but proved no match for Sanders and Snodgrass. Sanders said he was confident heading into this year’s season. “I knew at the end of last year that I was in good form for a red-hot shot this year but the pressure wasn’t there at all and I just pushed through to be that number one rider,” Sanders said. “I won every race but two this year due to torn ligaments in my ankle but it’s been great to push through, work hard and win. “The goal was to win it.” It was a fight for first place between Snodgrass and Sanders, but a small stop on one of the hills allowed Sanders to take the lead, finishing just seconds apart. “Lyndon was behind me in second for two of the races only four seconds apart, and then the other riders were at least a minute after us,” Sanders said. “Lyndo placing third in the E3 class is a massive achievement.” For Snodgrass, competing at an E3 level is a great achievement. “It’s pretty awesome,” he said. “Being only 18 I’m pretty happy with how I’ve been doing and I definitely hope to make a career out of it and I’ll keep training hard to hopefully do so.” He said there’s only one major event for him to compete in this year at the Australian four-day Enduro in Mansfield in November. Sanders will compete at the FIM International Six Days of Enduro in Spain between 11 and 16 October.

YARRA VALLEY ATHLETICS
THE final round of the XCR16 season was held at the Melbourne Botanical Gardens on Saturday morning.
Excellent weather conditions greeted 14 Yarra Ranges Athletics teams to the Tan Relays, held around the well-known Tan Track in Melbourne.
With many grade premierships still undecided, the quantity and quality of the teams entered was high.
Yarra Ranges Athletics were well placed in many division with very good hopes in Women’s Division 3, Women’s Division 5 and Men’s Under 14.
Over 320 teams entered the most competitive event on the XCR calendar.
Standout performances came from our younger teams with the Under 16 women winning, the Under 14 Boys finishing third and Under 14 girls finishing fourth.
It is always great to see our up and coming stars performing on the big stage.
The absolute highlight of the day was the debut performances from several ‘new’ members.
Great to see Kate Van Duuren, Graeme Woolridge, Maddie Button, Maddie Laven and Indigo Linde made to feel so comfortable and enjoy their first experience of running at an Av event. Well done and welcome.
Provisional results:
Women Divison 3 3rd Lily Thompson 15.13, Penny Neville 15.12, Amanda Laven 16.13, Amanda Branson 15.06.
Women Division 5(i) 5th Claire Knell 18.05, Judith May 15.51, Sarah Love 17.35.
Women Division 5(ii) 10th Erika Bedyn 20.03, Laura DiGregorio 19.50, Claire Knell 19.30.
Women Division 5(iii) 11th Sue McCall 17.52, Kate Van Duuren 21.35, Katie Clarke 19.52.
Women 20 6th Maddie Button 14.51, Sarah Lloyd 15.35, Olivia Twining 17.33.
Women 16(i) 1st Lily Peacock 14.31, Georgia Laven 14.11, Ruby Dixon 14.55.
Women 16(ii) 9th Grace Muller 16.12, Samantha DiGregorio 21.58, Zoe Sibley 16.49.
Women 14 4th Mia Strudley 17.42, Maddie Laven 15.43, Indie Linde 16.24.
Men Division 3 7th James Laven 13.21, Harrison Van Duuren 14.03, Jamie Strudley 14.03, Michael Clarke 14.08, Connor Thrall 13.45.
Men Division 5 5th Harry Norman 13.42, Riley Kennedy 14.35, Bryan Ackerly 14.34, Craig Hewitson 15.49.
Men Division 7(i) 9th Liam Russell 15.43, James Love 16.21, Gerard Thrall 18.03, Steve Blair 14.57.
Men Division 7(ii) 19th Jordan Brown 15.09, Justin Eagleton 16.00, Graeme Woolridge 20.53.
Men 16 11th Camden Hewitson 16.00, Alexander Van Duuren 19.21, Mitch Deckert 14.50.
Men 14 3rd Zac Clarke 15.44, Taj Linde 16.04, Samuel Norton 13.13.
The club has ended up with three premierships: Women Division 3, Women Division 4 and Men Under 14.
A fantastic result and well-earned reward to the hard work and commitment shown by these teams throughout the season.
A XCR premiership is not about being the best team every day, but about having A team each round.
The next club event is the opening round of the track and field season on October 8.
For information on how to join or trial, photos, results and updated news, visit the all new and improved website at yarrarangesathletics.org.au or check out the Facebook page.

YARRA VALLEY ATHLETICS THE final round of the XCR16 season was held at the Melbourne Botanical Gardens on Saturday morning. Excellent weather conditions greeted 14 Yarra Ranges Athletics teams to the Tan Relays, held around the well-known Tan Track in Melbourne. With many grade premierships still undecided, the quantity and quality of the teams entered was high. Yarra Ranges Athletics were well placed in many division with very good hopes in Women’s Division 3, Women’s Division 5 and Men’s Under 14. Over 320 teams entered the most competitive event on the XCR calendar. Standout performances came from our younger teams with the Under 16 women winning, the Under 14 Boys finishing third and Under 14 girls finishing fourth. It is always great to see our up and coming stars performing on the big stage. The absolute highlight of the day was the debut performances from several ‘new’ members. Great to see Kate Van Duuren, Graeme Woolridge, Maddie Button, Maddie Laven and Indigo Linde made to feel so comfortable and enjoy their first experience of running at an Av event. Well done and welcome. Provisional results: Women Divison 3 3rd Lily Thompson 15.13, Penny Neville 15.12, Amanda Laven 16.13, Amanda Branson 15.06. Women Division 5(i) 5th Claire Knell 18.05, Judith May 15.51, Sarah Love 17.35. Women Division 5(ii) 10th Erika Bedyn 20.03, Laura DiGregorio 19.50, Claire Knell 19.30. Women Division 5(iii) 11th Sue McCall 17.52, Kate Van Duuren 21.35, Katie Clarke 19.52. Women 20 6th Maddie Button 14.51, Sarah Lloyd 15.35, Olivia Twining 17.33. Women 16(i) 1st Lily Peacock 14.31, Georgia Laven 14.11, Ruby Dixon 14.55. Women 16(ii) 9th Grace Muller 16.12, Samantha DiGregorio 21.58, Zoe Sibley 16.49. Women 14 4th Mia Strudley 17.42, Maddie Laven 15.43, Indie Linde 16.24. Men Division 3 7th James Laven 13.21, Harrison Van Duuren 14.03, Jamie Strudley 14.03, Michael Clarke 14.08, Connor Thrall 13.45. Men Division 5 5th Harry Norman 13.42, Riley Kennedy 14.35, Bryan Ackerly 14.34, Craig Hewitson 15.49. Men Division 7(i) 9th Liam Russell 15.43, James Love 16.21, Gerard Thrall 18.03, Steve Blair 14.57. Men Division 7(ii) 19th Jordan Brown 15.09, Justin Eagleton 16.00, Graeme Woolridge 20.53. Men 16 11th Camden Hewitson 16.00, Alexander Van Duuren 19.21, Mitch Deckert 14.50. Men 14 3rd Zac Clarke 15.44, Taj Linde 16.04, Samuel Norton 13.13. The club has ended up with three premierships: Women Division 3, Women Division 4 and Men Under 14. A fantastic result and well-earned reward to the hard work and commitment shown by these teams throughout the season. A XCR premiership is not about being the best team every day, but about having A team each round. The next club event is the opening round of the track and field season on October 8. For information on how to join or trial, photos, results and updated news, visit the all new and improved website at yarrarangesathletics.org.au or check out the Facebook page.

IN the battle of the Bloods, it was Olinda Ferny Creek which emerged victorious, earning the chance to claim a Division 1 premiership after disposing of Healesville in a scrappy encounter.
Subsequently, Healesville and Wandin will fight it out next week for the right to challenge Olinda Ferny Creek in the decider.
Meanwhile, it’s grand final time for Division 2 next Saturday, 17 September, at Yarra Glen Football Ground, while Division 1 preliminary finals will be held at Healesville (Don Road Complex) on Sunday 18 September.
For game times and more details, visit www.aflyarraranges.com.au.
FOOTBALL
Division 1 Seniors
Semi-Final 2
Olinda Ferny Creek 13.20(95) d Healesville 8.8(56)
Healesville will face off against Wandin again next week in a last-chance preliminary final after what would have been a disappointing loss. Healesville were in touch early, but Olinda led by seven points at quarter time. Indirect kicking was the order of the day in the second quarter with Olinda kicking 4.5 to Healesville’s 3.2 to have a 16-point lead at half-time. Despite both teams unable to find their kicking boots in the second quarter, Olinda were able to take control of the match, kicking four goals to Healesville’s two to put the game out of Healesville’s reach. Indirect kicking was again on display in the fourth quarter which saw Olinda kick 2.6. However, Olinda were able to hold Healesville to 1.2 to secure an impressive 42-point win.
Olinda Ferny Creek Best: D. Rohrmann (2 goals), M. Wright, O. Millwood, P. Rosier (2 goals), D. Wilson (1 goal), M. Hottes.
Healesville Best: L. Daly, P. MacFarlane (2 goals), N. Aldridge, T. Costigan, B. Murphy, A. Hamer.
Semi-Final 1
Wandin 13.10(88) d Woori Yallock 7.13(55)
Wandin have come from behind to book themselves a berth in a preliminary final and said goodbye to Woori Yallock for the year. In a tight first quarter, Woori Yallock where able to take a slim three-point lead at quarter time. The Tigers were able to increase their lead in the second quarter, kicking 2.1 to Wandin’s 1.4 to hold a six-point lead heading into half-time. Wandin were able to find their feet in the third quarter, kicking 5.1 to Woori Yallock’s 2.4, with R. Wilson and J. Taylor breaking free and their team holding a nine-point lead heading into the last quarter. Wandin continued to hold the ascendancy in the last quarter, kicking 5.4 to Woori Yallock’s 1.4 to come away with a 30-point win.
Wandin Best: R. Ross, B. Harvey, M. Polkinghorne, J. Taylor (5 goals), J. Smith, J. Myers.
Woori Yallock Best: J. Coombs, T. Anderson, C. Smedley, R. Allen, H. Smith, D. Ryan.
Division 1 Reserves
Semi-Final 2
Olinda Ferny Creek 16.12(108) d Healesville 4.6(30)
Olinda Ferny Creek Best: D. Stevens, T. Millwood, C. Brown (2 goals), E. Greenall, G. Stevens (2 goals), C. Darling.
Healesville Best: B. Wright, M. Hay, G. Mason, J. Clark, L. Oliver, R. Carruthers.
Semi-Final 1
Mount Evelyn 9.3(57) d Wandin 7.8(50)
Mount Evelyn Best: J. Barden (1 goal), D. Wootton, M. Sheehan, J. Fellows, J. Grimwood, S. Harrod.
Wandin Best: D. Wilson (1 goal), A. Wisby, C. Foley, L. Jones, A. Young, P. Hodgett (3 goals).
Under 18
Semi-Final 1
Upwey Tecoma 10.12(72) d Woori Yallock-Powelltown 7.5(47)
Upwey Tecoma Best: M. Flynn, H. Stanley (3 goals), B. Oates, B. Watson (1 goal), C. Sweeney, J. Hannagan.
Woori Yallock-Powelltown Best: S. Burnside, A. Closter, M. Arnold, L. Amarant, J. Smith (2 goals), R. Ashby.
Semi-Final 2
Emerald 13.9(87) d Monbulk-Seville 8.4(52)
Emerald Best: L. Hancock-Wolfe, B. Jennings-Allen, J. Rak (2 goals), H. Emmett (1 goal), T. Wills, H. Dousset.
Monbulk-Seville Best: J. Volta, C. Roma (1 goal), L. Sheppard (4 goals), T. Thomsen, K. Jordan-Hill, M. Thomas (1 goal).
NETBALL
Division 1 A Grade
Semi-Final 2
Olinda Ferny Creek 51 d Wandin 47
Olinda Ferny Creek Best: Tamara Luke, Ashlee Howard (22 goals), Melanie Van Diemen.
Wandin Best: Gabrielle Sinclair (32 goals), Leah Reilly, Tayissa Coppinger.
Semi-Final 1
Woori Yallock 81 d Belgrave 63
Woori Yallock Best: Sarah Hogan (21 goals), Bess Schnioffsky, Elizabeth Nicol (60 goals).
Belgrave Best: Lauren Bennett (49 goals), Kalen Winters, Angela Jeffery.
Division 1 B Grade
Semi-Final 2
Wandin 50 d Warburton Millgrove 41
Wandin Best: Rebecca McMahon, Carly McDonnell (24 goals), Tayla Harris.
Warburton Millgrove Best: Stephanie Durant (21 goals), Melanie Hancock (20 goals), Serena Gibbs.
Semi-Final 1
Woori Yallock 53 d Olinda Ferny Creek 48
Woori Yallock Best: Elise Dobson, Emily Allwell, Stacey Fleming (39 goals).
Olinda Ferny Creek Best: Peri Stewart (43 goals), Lauren Read, Alex Wall.
Division 1 C Grade
Semi-Final 2
Wandin 37 d Olinda Ferny Creek 21
Wandin Best: Olivia Weinberg (24 goals), Tash Halton, Olivia Kerr.
Olinda Ferny Creek Best: Romy Schauble, Sophie Carpenter, Lisa McKenzie.
Semi-Final 1
Woori Yallock 31 d Mount Evelyn 23
Woori Yallock Best: Heidi Summers (26 goals), Ashley Shanks, Kimberley Williams.
Mount Evelyn Best: Jessica Howe, Steph Hall, Georgia Marsh (13 goals).
Division 1 D Grade
Semi-Final 2
Wandin 33 d Olinda Ferny Creek 20
Wandin Best: Lahnie McKenzie, Holly McInerney (29 goals), Lauren Ball.
Olinda Ferny Creek Best: Elise Tanzen (16 goals), Rhiannon Howell, Alexandra Cooper.
Semi-Final 1
Belgrave 28 d Upwey Tecoma 22
Belgrave Best: Danielle Weisgerber, Emily Spicer, Ashleigh Goodall (12 goals).
Upwey-Tecoma Best: Kirby Crowley (16 goals), Marian Campbell, Brenda VanKeulen (6 goals).
Division 17 & Under
Semi Final 2
Wandin 39 d Warburton Millgrove 15
Wandin Best: Alanna Lennie, Ciara Lumsden, Emily Corbett.
Warburton Millgrove Best: Teagan Adams, Stephanie Durant (3 goals), Holly Galway (7 goals).
Semi Final 1
Yarra Junction 34 d Mount Evelyn 27
Yarra Junction Best: Chelsea Neale, Abbey Bentley, Shelby Lewer (18 goals).
Mount Evelyn Best: Georgia Marsh (18 goals), Ruby Kelly, Maddie Oultram.
FOOTBALL
Division 2 Seniors
Preliminary Final
Kinglake 13.13(91) d Yea 10.9(69)
Kinglake have marched themselves into the Division 2 senior grand final next Saturday against Gembrook-Cockatoo at Yarra Glen Football Ground after a tough game against Yea on the weekend. Yea were able to get the jump over Kinglake in the first quarter kicking three goals to Yea’s two to lead by one straight kick in the first quarter. The game was hard-hitting, with Kinglake bouncing back in the second to kick four goals to Yea’s two to take a 12-point lead at half-time. Kinglake were able to blitz Yea in the third quarter with Geoffrey Hibberd marking everything that came his way, finishing with six goals. Ashley Hobbs for Yea struggled to get the ball and was well held all day as they held a 37-point lead at three-quarter time. It looked like the game was all over, but Kinglake failed to kick a goal in the last and could only manage six behinds to Yea’s 3.3, but were able to secure a 22-point win.
Kinglake Best: G. Hibberd (6 goals), Z. White, W. Graf, J. Crowe, J. Mende, B. Robinson.
Yea Best: M. Ivill, J. Mahon, J. Ryan, B. Cunningham (1 goal), J. Marasco, J. Ivill.
Division 2 Reserves
Preliminary Final
Seville 10.10(70) d Gembrook Cockatoo 3.6(24)
Seville Best: G. Tuenissen, C. Trainor, K. Mountjoy, B. Conder, C. Unmack, J. Wilson.
Gembrook-Cockatoo Best: B. Turner, J. VanDerZwart, G. Hartridge, N. Strohbeck, M. Hobson, M. Quinn.
NETBALL
Division 2 A Grade
Preliminary Final
Seville 39 d Yarra Junction 14
Seville Best: Mariah Scully, Ashleigh Hardy, Riley Gentle.
Yarra Junction Best Players: Katelyn Betts (10 goals), Rachel Young, Catherine Cook.
Division 2 B Grade
Preliminary Final
Yea 44 d Powelltown 26
Yea Best: Sophie Watts, Cindy Hayes (23 goals), Brooke Lloyd.
Powelltown Best: Kerrie Walton (9 goals), Simone Traynor, Sarah Woodward (10 goals).
Division 2 C Grade
Preliminary Final
Yarra Glen 34 d Kinglake 19
Yarra Glen Best: Emma Taylor, Madelaine Dale, Shannae Melis (24 goals).
Kinglake Best: Lauren McMahon, Sian Eddington, Sarah Baerken (8 goals)
Division 2 D Grade.
Preliminary Final
Yarra Glen 27 d Gembrook Cockatoo 23
Yarra Glen Best: Elise Hill, Shai Minifie, Elly Gambrell (16 goals).
Gembrook-Cockatoo Best: Carly Clarke, Madison Francis (19 goals), Hollie Burton.

IN the battle of the Bloods, it was Olinda Ferny Creek which emerged victorious, earning the chance to claim a Division 1 premiership after disposing of Healesville in a scrappy encounter. Subsequently, Healesville and Wandin will fight it out next week for the right to challenge Olinda Ferny Creek in the decider. Meanwhile, it’s grand final time for Division 2 next Saturday, 17 September, at Yarra Glen Football Ground, while Division 1 preliminary finals will be held at Healesville (Don Road Complex) on Sunday 18 September. For game times and more details, visit www.aflyarraranges.com.au. FOOTBALL Division 1 Seniors Semi-Final 2 Olinda Ferny Creek 13.20(95) d Healesville 8.8(56) Healesville will face off against Wandin again next week in a last-chance preliminary final after what would have been a disappointing loss. Healesville were in touch early, but Olinda led by seven points at quarter time. Indirect kicking was the order of the day in the second quarter with Olinda kicking 4.5 to Healesville’s 3.2 to have a 16-point lead at half-time. Despite both teams unable to find their kicking boots in the second quarter, Olinda were able to take control of the match, kicking four goals to Healesville’s two to put the game out of Healesville’s reach. Indirect kicking was again on display in the fourth quarter which saw Olinda kick 2.6. However, Olinda were able to hold Healesville to 1.2 to secure an impressive 42-point win. Olinda Ferny Creek Best: D. Rohrmann (2 goals), M. Wright, O. Millwood, P. Rosier (2 goals), D. Wilson (1 goal), M. Hottes. Healesville Best: L. Daly, P. MacFarlane (2 goals), N. Aldridge, T. Costigan, B. Murphy, A. Hamer. Semi-Final 1 Wandin 13.10(88) d Woori Yallock 7.13(55) Wandin have come from behind to book themselves a berth in a preliminary final and said goodbye to Woori Yallock for the year. In a tight first quarter, Woori Yallock where able to take a slim three-point lead at quarter time. The Tigers were able to increase their lead in the second quarter, kicking 2.1 to Wandin’s 1.4 to hold a six-point lead heading into half-time. Wandin were able to find their feet in the third quarter, kicking 5.1 to Woori Yallock’s 2.4, with R. Wilson and J. Taylor breaking free and their team holding a nine-point lead heading into the last quarter. Wandin continued to hold the ascendancy in the last quarter, kicking 5.4 to Woori Yallock’s 1.4 to come away with a 30-point win. Wandin Best: R. Ross, B. Harvey, M. Polkinghorne, J. Taylor (5 goals), J. Smith, J. Myers. Woori Yallock Best: J. Coombs, T. Anderson, C. Smedley, R. Allen, H. Smith, D. Ryan. Division 1 Reserves Semi-Final 2 Olinda Ferny Creek 16.12(108) d Healesville 4.6(30) Olinda Ferny Creek Best: D. Stevens, T. Millwood, C. Brown (2 goals), E. Greenall, G. Stevens (2 goals), C. Darling. Healesville Best: B. Wright, M. Hay, G. Mason, J. Clark, L. Oliver, R. Carruthers. Semi-Final 1 Mount Evelyn 9.3(57) d Wandin 7.8(50) Mount Evelyn Best: J. Barden (1 goal), D. Wootton, M. Sheehan, J. Fellows, J. Grimwood, S. Harrod. Wandin Best: D. Wilson (1 goal), A. Wisby, C. Foley, L. Jones, A. Young, P. Hodgett (3 goals). Under 18 Semi-Final 1 Upwey Tecoma 10.12(72) d Woori Yallock-Powelltown 7.5(47) Upwey Tecoma Best: M. Flynn, H. Stanley (3 goals), B. Oates, B. Watson (1 goal), C. Sweeney, J. Hannagan. Woori Yallock-Powelltown Best: S. Burnside, A. Closter, M. Arnold, L. Amarant, J. Smith (2 goals), R. Ashby. Semi-Final 2 Emerald 13.9(87) d Monbulk-Seville 8.4(52) Emerald Best: L. Hancock-Wolfe, B. Jennings-Allen, J. Rak (2 goals), H. Emmett (1 goal), T. Wills, H. Dousset. Monbulk-Seville Best: J. Volta, C. Roma (1 goal), L. Sheppard (4 goals), T. Thomsen, K. Jordan-Hill, M. Thomas (1 goal). NETBALL Division 1 A Grade Semi-Final 2 Olinda Ferny Creek 51 d Wandin 47 Olinda Ferny Creek Best: Tamara Luke, Ashlee Howard (22 goals), Melanie Van Diemen. Wandin Best: Gabrielle Sinclair (32 goals), Leah Reilly, Tayissa Coppinger. Semi-Final 1 Woori Yallock 81 d Belgrave 63 Woori Yallock Best: Sarah Hogan (21 goals), Bess Schnioffsky, Elizabeth Nicol (60 goals). Belgrave Best: Lauren Bennett (49 goals), Kalen Winters, Angela Jeffery. Division 1 B Grade Semi-Final 2 Wandin 50 d Warburton Millgrove 41 Wandin Best: Rebecca McMahon, Carly McDonnell (24 goals), Tayla Harris. Warburton Millgrove Best: Stephanie Durant (21 goals), Melanie Hancock (20 goals), Serena Gibbs. Semi-Final 1 Woori Yallock 53 d Olinda Ferny Creek 48 Woori Yallock Best: Elise Dobson, Emily Allwell, Stacey Fleming (39 goals). Olinda Ferny Creek Best: Peri Stewart (43 goals), Lauren Read, Alex Wall. Division 1 C Grade Semi-Final 2 Wandin 37 d Olinda Ferny Creek 21 Wandin Best: Olivia Weinberg (24 goals), Tash Halton, Olivia Kerr. Olinda Ferny Creek Best: Romy Schauble, Sophie Carpenter, Lisa McKenzie. Semi-Final 1 Woori Yallock 31 d Mount Evelyn 23 Woori Yallock Best: Heidi Summers (26 goals), Ashley Shanks, Kimberley Williams. Mount Evelyn Best: Jessica Howe, Steph Hall, Georgia Marsh (13 goals). Division 1 D Grade Semi-Final 2 Wandin 33 d Olinda Ferny Creek 20 Wandin Best: Lahnie McKenzie, Holly McInerney (29 goals), Lauren Ball. Olinda Ferny Creek Best: Elise Tanzen (16 goals), Rhiannon Howell, Alexandra Cooper. Semi-Final 1 Belgrave 28 d Upwey Tecoma 22 Belgrave Best: Danielle Weisgerber, Emily Spicer, Ashleigh Goodall (12 goals). Upwey-Tecoma Best: Kirby Crowley (16 goals), Marian Campbell, Brenda VanKeulen (6 goals). Division 17 & Under Semi Final 2 Wandin 39 d Warburton Millgrove 15 Wandin Best: Alanna Lennie, Ciara Lumsden, Emily Corbett. Warburton Millgrove Best: Teagan Adams, Stephanie Durant (3 goals), Holly Galway (7 goals). Semi Final 1 Yarra Junction 34 d Mount Evelyn 27 Yarra Junction Best: Chelsea Neale, Abbey Bentley, Shelby Lewer (18 goals). Mount Evelyn Best: Georgia Marsh (18 goals), Ruby Kelly, Maddie Oultram. FOOTBALL Division 2 Seniors Preliminary Final Kinglake 13.13(91) d Yea 10.9(69) Kinglake have marched themselves into the Division 2 senior grand final next Saturday against Gembrook-Cockatoo at Yarra Glen Football Ground after a tough game against Yea on the weekend. Yea were able to get the jump over Kinglake in the first quarter kicking three goals to Yea’s two to lead by one straight kick in the first quarter. The game was hard-hitting, with Kinglake bouncing back in the second to kick four goals to Yea’s two to take a 12-point lead at half-time. Kinglake were able to blitz Yea in the third quarter with Geoffrey Hibberd marking everything that came his way, finishing with six goals. Ashley Hobbs for Yea struggled to get the ball and was well held all day as they held a 37-point lead at three-quarter time. It looked like the game was all over, but Kinglake failed to kick a goal in the last and could only manage six behinds to Yea’s 3.3, but were able to secure a 22-point win. Kinglake Best: G. Hibberd (6 goals), Z. White, W. Graf, J. Crowe, J. Mende, B. Robinson. Yea Best: M. Ivill, J. Mahon, J. Ryan, B. Cunningham (1 goal), J. Marasco, J. Ivill. Division 2 Reserves Preliminary Final Seville 10.10(70) d Gembrook Cockatoo 3.6(24) Seville Best: G. Tuenissen, C. Trainor, K. Mountjoy, B. Conder, C. Unmack, J. Wilson. Gembrook-Cockatoo Best: B. Turner, J. VanDerZwart, G. Hartridge, N. Strohbeck, M. Hobson, M. Quinn. NETBALL Division 2 A Grade Preliminary Final Seville 39 d Yarra Junction 14 Seville Best: Mariah Scully, Ashleigh Hardy, Riley Gentle. Yarra Junction Best Players: Katelyn Betts (10 goals), Rachel Young, Catherine Cook. Division 2 B Grade Preliminary Final Yea 44 d Powelltown 26 Yea Best: Sophie Watts, Cindy Hayes (23 goals), Brooke Lloyd. Powelltown Best: Kerrie Walton (9 goals), Simone Traynor, Sarah Woodward (10 goals). Division 2 C Grade Preliminary Final Yarra Glen 34 d Kinglake 19 Yarra Glen Best: Emma Taylor, Madelaine Dale, Shannae Melis (24 goals). Kinglake Best: Lauren McMahon, Sian Eddington, Sarah Baerken (8 goals) Division 2 D Grade. Preliminary Final Yarra Glen 27 d Gembrook Cockatoo 23 Yarra Glen Best: Elise Hill, Shai Minifie, Elly Gambrell (16 goals). Gembrook-Cockatoo Best: Carly Clarke, Madison Francis (19 goals), Hollie Burton.

THE AUSTRALIAN Doctors Orchestra will perform a special fund-raising concert on 9 October at The Memo in Healesville to support the renovations of Healesville and District Hospital.
The orchestra will present The Lark, and funds raised will be forwarded to new equipment for the hospital.
Conducted by Warwick Stengards, The Lark will showcase the musical talents from The Australian Doctors Orchestra, a group of passionate classically trained medical professionals from across Australia.
One of the performers, violinist Dr Vivian Wu, is also a surgeon at Maroondah Hospital in Ringwood.
Dr Wu said she was delighted to be a part of the event.
“Healesville and District Hospital holds a very special place with the local community, and I’d encourage everyone to come along to the concert,” Dr Wu said.
“Not only will you be supporting a terrific fund-raising effort, but you’ll hear some great classical music as well.”
Eastern Health Foundation Director, Anne Gribbin said she was grateful for the Australian Doctors Orchestra support.
“We are humbled by their incredible generosity and look forward to what I’m sure will be a wonderful performance,” Ms Gribbin said.
The performance will begin at 2pm.
Tickets cost $35, $30 for concession, $15 for children and under five are free.
For more information, call 1300 368 333 or visit culturetracks.info.

THE AUSTRALIAN Doctors Orchestra will perform a special fund-raising concert on 9 October at The Memo in Healesville to support the renovations of Healesville and District Hospital. The orchestra will present The Lark, and funds raised will be forwarded to new equipment for the hospital. Conducted by Warwick Stengards, The Lark will showcase the musical talents from The Australian Doctors Orchestra, a group of passionate classically trained medical professionals from across Australia. One of the performers, violinist Dr Vivian Wu, is also a surgeon at Maroondah Hospital in Ringwood. Dr Wu said she was delighted to be a part of the event. “Healesville and District Hospital holds a very special place with the local community, and I’d encourage everyone to come along to the concert,” Dr Wu said. “Not only will you be supporting a terrific fund-raising effort, but you’ll hear some great classical music as well.” Eastern Health Foundation Director, Anne Gribbin said she was grateful for the Australian Doctors Orchestra support. “We are humbled by their incredible generosity and look forward to what I’m sure will be a wonderful performance,” Ms Gribbin said. The performance will begin at 2pm. Tickets cost $35, $30 for concession, $15 for children and under five are free. For more information, call 1300 368 333 or visit culturetracks.info.

SENSORY mats designed to help people living with intellectual disabilities relieve stress will be on display at Mont De Lancey next month, following an outpouring of community support.
An exhibition of more than 200 sensory mats will be held at Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead through October, organised by the Seville Community House.
Glenice Hopes from the community house said the sensory mats were designed to help people living with intellectual disabilities, or who are on the autism spectrum, and feature objects and textured fabrics that can be felt or played with to help with relaxation.
“They work as a calm-you-down, stress relief, anxiety relief sort of thing,” Ms Hopes said.
She said the community house asked residents to help make mats and donate them to the house, and that more than 200 were made and handed in.
“I worked in the aged care sector for many years, and prior to that, the disability sector, so I understand the need and the wonderful work that these sensory maps … actually do,” she said.
“We were looking to do something as a community project, and this is where it grew from.
“There’s actually flat mats with all sorts of things sewn on them, like buttons, zips … there’s flat mats, there’s cushions … there’s also woodwork boards for those that want it.”
Ms Hopes said Mont De Lancey donated their gallery space for the exhibition, and that special schools, nursing homes and residents were being invited to come out to the exhibition.
“What will happen is people are going to come … and if anyone wants one, we take it off the wall and we give it to them,” she said.
The sensory mats will be free of charge, though Ms Hopes said donations were being accepted – as were further donations of sensory mats.
The exhibition opens on 1 October and runs until the end of the month at Mont De Lancey, 71 Wellington Road, Wandin North.

SENSORY mats designed to help people living with intellectual disabilities relieve stress will be on display at Mont De Lancey next month, following an outpouring of community support. An exhibition of more than 200 sensory mats will be held at Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead through October, organised by the Seville Community House. Glenice Hopes from the community house said the sensory mats were designed to help people living with intellectual disabilities, or who are on the autism spectrum, and feature objects and textured fabrics that can be felt or played with to help with relaxation. “They work as a calm-you-down, stress relief, anxiety relief sort of thing,” Ms Hopes said. She said the community house asked residents to help make mats and donate them to the house, and that more than 200 were made and handed in. “I worked in the aged care sector for many years, and prior to that, the disability sector, so I understand the need and the wonderful work that these sensory maps … actually do,” she said. “We were looking to do something as a community project, and this is where it grew from. “There’s actually flat mats with all sorts of things sewn on them, like buttons, zips … there’s flat mats, there’s cushions … there’s also woodwork boards for those that want it.” Ms Hopes said Mont De Lancey donated their gallery space for the exhibition, and that special schools, nursing homes and residents were being invited to come out to the exhibition. “What will happen is people are going to come … and if anyone wants one, we take it off the wall and we give it to them,” she said. The sensory mats will be free of charge, though Ms Hopes said donations were being accepted – as were further donations of sensory mats. The exhibition opens on 1 October and runs until the end of the month at Mont De Lancey, 71 Wellington Road, Wandin North.

MUSIC and gin lovers will unite in Healesville later this month, when the Australian String Quartet performs in the intimate space of the Four Pillars Distillery.
From 7pm on Sunday, 25 September, the quartet will perform pieces in the distillery as part of Close Quarters – performing classical music in an intimate space.
Co-founder of Four Pillars Matt Jones said he approached the quartet for the show after meeting them last year.
He said the quartet wanted to play in a chamber music style, where performances were held in small and intimate spaces.
“It was music performed in really intimate spaces and really close, so you can really feel the music being played in the room,” Mr Jones said.
“They loved the idea of bringing that intimacy back into the performances.
“They were always looking out for cool, different places – at the time, we were literally just getting around to opening up the distillery in Healesville. It just seemed like a really, really natural fit.”
The performance will run through until 9pm, and the distillery will have room for 70 attendees.
Mr Jones said the distillery would be open late and visitors would be able to have a chat to the distillers and possibly the musicians while enjoying a drink.
“If this goes well, having different styles of music going on in the venue and letting people enjoy a drink with something different going on in the background is something we’d like to be doing more of,” he said.
Tickets to the show are $25 at the door, 2A Old Lilydale Road, Healesville, or at www.trybooking.com/MUSJ.

MUSIC and gin lovers will unite in Healesville later this month, when the Australian String Quartet performs in the intimate space of the Four Pillars Distillery. From 7pm on Sunday, 25 September, the quartet will perform pieces in the distillery as part of Close Quarters – performing classical music in an intimate space. Co-founder of Four Pillars Matt Jones said he approached the quartet for the show after meeting them last year. He said the quartet wanted to play in a chamber music style, where performances were held in small and intimate spaces. “It was music performed in really intimate spaces and really close, so you can really feel the music being played in the room,” Mr Jones said. “They loved the idea of bringing that intimacy back into the performances. “They were always looking out for cool, different places – at the time, we were literally just getting around to opening up the distillery in Healesville. It just seemed like a really, really natural fit.” The performance will run through until 9pm, and the distillery will have room for 70 attendees. Mr Jones said the distillery would be open late and visitors would be able to have a chat to the distillers and possibly the musicians while enjoying a drink. “If this goes well, having different styles of music going on in the venue and letting people enjoy a drink with something different going on in the background is something we’d like to be doing more of,” he said. Tickets to the show are $25 at the door, 2A Old Lilydale Road, Healesville, or at www.trybooking.com/MUSJ.

MELBOURNE songstress Liz Stringer is set to perform a bunch of sweet new tunes at the Sooki Lounge on Thursday 22 September.
Fresh off the release of her fifth studio album, Stringer is keen to reacquaint herself with her strong fan-base in the region, after a heavy touring schedule which has recently included a two-month stint in Canada.
The ‘Mail’ caught up with Stringer before her Belgrave show, and the singer-songwriter said she couldn’t wait to perform for local crowds.
“It’ll be great to catch up with a few people, but I’m most looking forward to performing with our new line-up and new material from the album,” she said.
“We’re sounding great at the moment, and I’m really enjoying playing shows.”
After four years since the release of her award-winning fourth album, ‘Warm in the Darkness’, Stringer said the new album had left her feeling rejuvenated creatively.
The latest instalment, ‘All the Bridges’, was recorded in just eight days in Portland, Oregon.
“We were able to get in some incredible musicians to work on that album,” she said.
“We didn’t have a lot of time to muck around, and I think that actually helped the process.
“I listen back to it now and think, ‘we did pretty good’.
“The songs all sound great and there is cohesiveness throughout the album, which I’m really proud of.”
The new release features prominent Portland mainstays Luke Ydstie (bass) and Ben Nugent (drums) on rhythm section duties.
The result has been described as a vibrant and assured album, playing tribute to the new West Coast sound with the addition of 80s inspired urgency.
Now, local audiences will have the chance to see Stringer’s music and musicianship live.
One constant in her music is not only her silky voice, but her incredible guitar playing.
Interestingly, it is said Stringer started playing the piano before she could talk.
Although, she took up guitar at age 15 and the rest, as they say, is history.
For more details and bookings, visit www.sookilounge.com.au.

MELBOURNE songstress Liz Stringer is set to perform a bunch of sweet new tunes at the Sooki Lounge on Thursday 22 September. Fresh off the release of her fifth studio album, Stringer is keen to reacquaint herself with her strong fan-base in the region, after a heavy touring schedule which has recently included a two-month stint in Canada. The ‘Mail’ caught up with Stringer before her Belgrave show, and the singer-songwriter said she couldn’t wait to perform for local crowds. “It’ll be great to catch up with a few people, but I’m most looking forward to performing with our new line-up and new material from the album,” she said. “We’re sounding great at the moment, and I’m really enjoying playing shows.” After four years since the release of her award-winning fourth album, ‘Warm in the Darkness’, Stringer said the new album had left her feeling rejuvenated creatively. The latest instalment, ‘All the Bridges’, was recorded in just eight days in Portland, Oregon. “We were able to get in some incredible musicians to work on that album,” she said. “We didn’t have a lot of time to muck around, and I think that actually helped the process. “I listen back to it now and think, ‘we did pretty good’. “The songs all sound great and there is cohesiveness throughout the album, which I’m really proud of.” The new release features prominent Portland mainstays Luke Ydstie (bass) and Ben Nugent (drums) on rhythm section duties. The result has been described as a vibrant and assured album, playing tribute to the new West Coast sound with the addition of 80s inspired urgency. Now, local audiences will have the chance to see Stringer’s music and musicianship live. One constant in her music is not only her silky voice, but her incredible guitar playing. Interestingly, it is said Stringer started playing the piano before she could talk. Although, she took up guitar at age 15 and the rest, as they say, is history. For more details and bookings, visit www.sookilounge.com.au.

SILVAN tulip grower Paul Tesselaar and his team have been busy planting an extra 150,000 tulips for this year’s Tesselaar Tulip Festival.
In its 63rd year, the event will display a sea of 900,000 colourful flowers during 9 September and 6 October.
Mr Tesselaar said the theme for this year’s event was Tulips Down Under.
“It’s about people enjoying and looking at what we’ve got in Australia,” Mr Tesselaar said.
“It’ll feature a sculpture competition with an Australiana focus.”
The sculptures will be placed throughout the tulip fields for visitors to look at.
Mr Tesselaar said the Australiana theme was inspired by his grandparents, who moved from Australia from the Netherlands in 1939.
“They began growing tulips once they moved here, and it’s about our history I suppose,” he said.
The extra thousands of tulips weren’t too much trouble for the Tesselaars to plant.
“We were already planting 750,000 so I thought: “Why not plant another 150,000?” he said.
Event favourites including the children’s days, Turkish, Dutch and Irish weekends and the food, wine and jazz weekend will all be back this year.
“While we have all of the other entertainment, the tulips are undoubtedly the star of the show,” Mr Tesselaar said.
“They’re absolutely captivating at their best.”
Tickets cost $26 for adults and children under 16 are free.
For more information, or to book early, visit www.trybooking.com.

SILVAN tulip grower Paul Tesselaar and his team have been busy planting an extra 150,000 tulips for this year’s Tesselaar Tulip Festival. In its 63rd year, the event will display a sea of 900,000 colourful flowers during 9 September and 6 October. Mr Tesselaar said the theme for this year’s event was Tulips Down Under. “It’s about people enjoying and looking at what we’ve got in Australia,” Mr Tesselaar said. “It’ll feature a sculpture competition with an Australiana focus.” The sculptures will be placed throughout the tulip fields for visitors to look at. Mr Tesselaar said the Australiana theme was inspired by his grandparents, who moved from Australia from the Netherlands in 1939. “They began growing tulips once they moved here, and it’s about our history I suppose,” he said. The extra thousands of tulips weren’t too much trouble for the Tesselaars to plant. “We were already planting 750,000 so I thought: “Why not plant another 150,000?” he said. Event favourites including the children’s days, Turkish, Dutch and Irish weekends and the food, wine and jazz weekend will all be back this year. “While we have all of the other entertainment, the tulips are undoubtedly the star of the show,” Mr Tesselaar said. “They’re absolutely captivating at their best.” Tickets cost $26 for adults and children under 16 are free. For more information, or to book early, visit www.trybooking.com.

MELBOURNE based cut snakes The Bennies will be bringing their no-holes-barred brand of high octane musical trash to Belgrave’s Sooki Lounge on Wednesday 17 September.
The band members described themselves as “your agerage average Psychedelic Reggae Ska Doom Metal Punk Rock From Hell.”
Bassist and vocalist of the band Craig Selak said the gig will be one to remember and issued a challenge to the audience not to enjoy the show.
“It’s gonna be super high energy with sh*t loads of high fives and people losing sh*t but looking after each other,” he said.
“I dare people to leave the show with a frown on their face, I f@#$ing dare ya.”
While the band says they haven’t had a chance to spend much time in the Dandenongs before, they are keen to come out to Belgrave and have a great time.
“We have a couple of good friends from Belgrave and I remember it from the train line when I used to skate a lot,” Selak said.
“We are really looking forward to meeting a few people, sinking beers and having a good time.”
The show at Sooki Lounge is part of an Australian east coast tour that sees The Bennies travelling with American punk act Rozwell Kid on their first trip to Australia.
The tour will include shows in Belgrave, Melbourne, Mornington, Bendigo on their way to larger festivals such as Poison City Weekender, Stonecutters and I Love Life.
Selak said the band loves playing gigs of all sizes and is just happy to make its audiences happy.
“We play all different sized venues and love to mix it up, big and small, doesn’t matter,” he said
“If people want to watch us play then we want to play for them.”
Tickets for The Bennies and Rozwell Kid are available from the Sooki Lounge website at www.sookilounge.com.au.

MELBOURNE based cut snakes The Bennies will be bringing their no-holes-barred brand of high octane musical trash to Belgrave’s Sooki Lounge on Wednesday 17 September. The band members described themselves as “your agerage average Psychedelic Reggae Ska Doom Metal Punk Rock From Hell.” Bassist and vocalist of the band Craig Selak said the gig will be one to remember and issued a challenge to the audience not to enjoy the show. “It’s gonna be super high energy with sh*t loads of high fives and people losing sh*t but looking after each other,” he said. “I dare people to leave the show with a frown on their face, I f@#$ing dare ya.” While the band says they haven’t had a chance to spend much time in the Dandenongs before, they are keen to come out to Belgrave and have a great time. “We have a couple of good friends from Belgrave and I remember it from the train line when I used to skate a lot,” Selak said. “We are really looking forward to meeting a few people, sinking beers and having a good time.” The show at Sooki Lounge is part of an Australian east coast tour that sees The Bennies travelling with American punk act Rozwell Kid on their first trip to Australia. The tour will include shows in Belgrave, Melbourne, Mornington, Bendigo on their way to larger festivals such as Poison City Weekender, Stonecutters and I Love Life. Selak said the band loves playing gigs of all sizes and is just happy to make its audiences happy. “We play all different sized venues and love to mix it up, big and small, doesn’t matter,” he said “If people want to watch us play then we want to play for them.” Tickets for The Bennies and Rozwell Kid are available from the Sooki Lounge website at www.sookilounge.com.au.