Yarra Ranges Council has revealed that so far for 2017 there have been 150 dog attacks in the Yarra Ranges municipality, which is down from 167 for the 2016 period.
Though, so far for the year, there have been 87 rushes reported in the Yarra Ranges, in comparison to 76 in 2016.
“Rush at” means the dog has approached a person within three metres in a menacing manner; this includes displaying aggressive behaviour such as snarling, growling and raising the hackles.
Council director of Corporate Services Troy Edwards said that many of the dogs, which were identified, were euthanised following the incident.
“Once the attack has been reported to council, it is council’s responsibility to investigate the matter,” he said.
“A number of dogs have been euthanised voluntarily by their owner this year as the result of an attack.”
On the Yarra Ranges Council website, it states that 97 per cent of prosecutions are for dog attacks on people or animals.
In September, a dog attack on sheep in The Patch saw 22 killed.
The owner, Peter Quinn, said Rangers who responded to the scene identified it as one of the worst they had seen in the Dandenong Ranges.
Mr Quinn said it was likely that the dogs were domesticated as they had not returned the following night, and in his 20 years of living there, he had never seen or heard of wild dogs.
“The rangers said it was one of the worst he had ever seen,” Mr Quinn said.
“Been here on 20 years – never seen anything like that … a lot of the property is bush, and I’ve never seen stray dogs here.”
In August, two dogs of Husky appearance were also reported loose in Cockatoo by police.
A police report on Cardinia Eyewatch stated that dogs entered a property on Boronia Crescent, where they then attacked a ‘victim’s goat before turning on the victim’.
Local veterinary clinics around the Yarra Ranges also share similar stories of livestock being attacked by dogs.
Ruth Elliot a dog behaviour specialist in Ferntree Gully said it was always the responsibliy of the owner to keep them in their own property.
“You have a legal responsibility to keep your dog on your property,” she said.
If anyone witnesses a dog attack, they are encouraged to contact the council on 300 368 333 or if necessary, the police on triple-zero.
Information that can help authorities identify an offending dog includes breed, hair colour, height and coat length.

Yarra Ranges Council has revealed that so far for 2017 there have been 150 dog attacks in the Yarra Ranges municipality, which is down from 167 for the 2016 period. Though, so far for the year, there have been 87 rushes reported in the Yarra Ranges, in comparison to 76 in 2016. “Rush at” means the dog has approached a person within three metres in a menacing manner; this includes displaying aggressive behaviour such as snarling, growling and raising the hackles. Council director of Corporate Services Troy Edwards said that many of the dogs, which were identified, were euthanised following the incident. “Once the attack has been reported to council, it is council’s responsibility to investigate the matter,” he said. “A number of dogs have been euthanised voluntarily by their owner this year as the result of an attack.” On the Yarra Ranges Council website, it states that 97 per cent of prosecutions are for dog attacks on people or animals. In September, a dog attack on sheep in The Patch saw 22 killed. The owner, Peter Quinn, said Rangers who responded to the scene identified it as one of the worst they had seen in the Dandenong Ranges. Mr Quinn said it was likely that the dogs were domesticated as they had not returned the following night, and in his 20 years of living there, he had never seen or heard of wild dogs. “The rangers said it was one of the worst he had ever seen,” Mr Quinn said. “Been here on 20 years – never seen anything like that … a lot of the property is bush, and I’ve never seen stray dogs here.” In August, two dogs of Husky appearance were also reported loose in Cockatoo by police. A police report on Cardinia Eyewatch stated that dogs entered a property on Boronia Crescent, where they then attacked a ‘victim’s goat before turning on the victim’. Local veterinary clinics around the Yarra Ranges also share similar stories of livestock being attacked by dogs. Ruth Elliot a dog behaviour specialist in Ferntree Gully said it was always the responsibliy of the owner to keep them in their own property. “You have a legal responsibility to keep your dog on your property,” she said. If anyone witnesses a dog attack, they are encouraged to contact the council on 300 368 333 or if necessary, the police on triple-zero. Information that can help authorities identify an offending dog includes breed, hair colour, height and coat length.

ABC Melbourne will broadcast live from the Warburton Fire Station on Sunday, 29 October as part of the brigade’s open day.
The broadcast recognises an announcement that Warburton will have access to essential emergency information over the summer season via an ABC re-broadcasting antenna transmitting on 96.1FM
Warburton Valley residents will be able to tune into emergency radio broadcasts in the event of a major emergency such as bushfire or storm, thanks to the success of a community-driven project which has been able to secure the antenna on Mount Victoria.
Warburton Emergency Planning Group (WEPG) member Kevin Bargar said the new antenna which re-broadcasts ABC Melbourne could potentially save lives.
“Previously, feedback from Upper Yarra residents indicated that receiving timely emergency information was a problem for many people,” Mr Bargar said.
He said Warburton had limited AM/FM radio coverage, mobile phone coverage black spots and lack of internet access.
“This re-broadcasting antenna will give the community the ability to get the information they need to stay safe and be as prepared as possible,” he said.
He recommended that residents tune in to 96.1FM so that it’s on their radar throughout summer.
WEPG has been advocating strongly for a permanent replacement for the temporary antenna made available after the 2009 bushfires.
“The radio signal can now be picked up by the transmitter and re-broadcast to the Upper Yarra region using FM radio,” Mr Bargar said.
WEPG received a $20,000 grant from the Warburton and Yarra Junction Community Bank branches (Bendigo Bank) to fund the technology.
The service is designed to cover the Warburton Valley between Yarra Junction and Reefton, and will include the Upper Yarra Dam and Cambarville between Reefton and Marysville.
In 2015, following a visit by Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and the declaration of Warburton as one of the highest bushfire risk locations in the state, the WEPG approached Emergency Management Victoria (EMV) to support the community with funding for the $25,000 needed to install the antenna and transmitter.
O’Shannassy Councillor Jim Child said Yarra Ranges Council had been working with the WEPG to co-ordinate and fund the feasibility, implementation and planning requirements to get the transmitter in place.
“This antenna will allow Warburton to maintain their resilience and receive much-needed information during a disaster.
“We are encouraging everyone in the community to come down to the Warburton CFA to be present at the live broadcast,” he said.
Yarra Ranges Council provided funding for the project and additional in-kind support.
The tower owner TX Australia has agreed to subsidise the annual rental fees and council has committed to supporting the annual running costs of the service.
This summer, residents are being asked to tune into 96.1FM for all emergency broadcasting needs.
The Warburton CFA Open Day is on Sunday, 29 October from 10am to 3pm at the Warburton Fire Brigade station.

ABC Melbourne will broadcast live from the Warburton Fire Station on Sunday, 29 October as part of the brigade’s open day. The broadcast recognises an announcement that Warburton will have access to essential emergency information over the summer season via an ABC re-broadcasting antenna transmitting on 96.1FM Warburton Valley residents will be able to tune into emergency radio broadcasts in the event of a major emergency such as bushfire or storm, thanks to the success of a community-driven project which has been able to secure the antenna on Mount Victoria. Warburton Emergency Planning Group (WEPG) member Kevin Bargar said the new antenna which re-broadcasts ABC Melbourne could potentially save lives. “Previously, feedback from Upper Yarra residents indicated that receiving timely emergency information was a problem for many people,” Mr Bargar said. He said Warburton had limited AM/FM radio coverage, mobile phone coverage black spots and lack of internet access. “This re-broadcasting antenna will give the community the ability to get the information they need to stay safe and be as prepared as possible,” he said. He recommended that residents tune in to 96.1FM so that it’s on their radar throughout summer. WEPG has been advocating strongly for a permanent replacement for the temporary antenna made available after the 2009 bushfires. “The radio signal can now be picked up by the transmitter and re-broadcast to the Upper Yarra region using FM radio,” Mr Bargar said. WEPG received a $20,000 grant from the Warburton and Yarra Junction Community Bank branches (Bendigo Bank) to fund the technology. The service is designed to cover the Warburton Valley between Yarra Junction and Reefton, and will include the Upper Yarra Dam and Cambarville between Reefton and Marysville. In 2015, following a visit by Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and the declaration of Warburton as one of the highest bushfire risk locations in the state, the WEPG approached Emergency Management Victoria (EMV) to support the community with funding for the $25,000 needed to install the antenna and transmitter. O’Shannassy Councillor Jim Child said Yarra Ranges Council had been working with the WEPG to co-ordinate and fund the feasibility, implementation and planning requirements to get the transmitter in place. “This antenna will allow Warburton to maintain their resilience and receive much-needed information during a disaster. “We are encouraging everyone in the community to come down to the Warburton CFA to be present at the live broadcast,” he said. Yarra Ranges Council provided funding for the project and additional in-kind support. The tower owner TX Australia has agreed to subsidise the annual rental fees and council has committed to supporting the annual running costs of the service. This summer, residents are being asked to tune into 96.1FM for all emergency broadcasting needs. The Warburton CFA Open Day is on Sunday, 29 October from 10am to 3pm at the Warburton Fire Brigade station.

In any one day, patients on the ‘sick list’ at Healesville Sanctuary’s Australian Wildlife Health Centre can include a bearded dragon, feathertail glider, long-nosed potoroo, wedge-tailed eagle, orange-bellied parrot, super parrot, juvenile powerful owl and a truckload of turtles.
And, they are just some of the 1500 or so animals the sanctuary’s vet nurse team deals with each year.
The team celebrated their chosen profession on Friday, 13 October, along with veterinary nurses everywhere, as part of National Vet Nurse Day, an initiative of the Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia.
Senior Vet Nurse Jodi Sievwright heads the sanctuary team which includes Sarah Kaiser, Ellen Richmond, Kelly Wynn and Gerry Ross.
Growing up in the country, Jodi said she always wanted to work with animals and got a foot in the door as a volunteer with the RSPCA.
It’s not an easy profession to break into, and to be qualified in Australia entails a two-year course with a prerequisite that you have worked in the industry.
Jodi said while a love of animals was a given, there was a lot more to the job.
“It’s a skill to be a vet nurse,” she said.
“It’s not just about cuddling the animals, it is about common sense, recognising illness and applying all the technical and practical skills you learn.
“There are so many different species to learn about, and making the transition from small animals to wildlife is a whole new learning curve,” she said.
Sanctuary director Ross Williamson welcomed National Vet Nurse Day as an opportunity to highlight the valuable role they play in caring for animals that are taken to the sanctuary after being found orphaned, injured or sick.
“Our team’s number one goal is to see these animals released back into the wild, and they work very hard on a case by case basis to provide world-class care to our unique wildlife,” Mr Williamson said.
“It’s hard not to be inspired by the work our expert team does every day, at the forefront of wildlife care and welfare, when you see them in action at the Australian Wildlife Health Centre.”
Visitors to the sanctuary can see the vets and the vet nurses in action at all stages of an animal’s care in the innovative glass-walled hospital and learn more about the work they do at daily talks at 11am, 1.30pm and 3pm.
Jodi said it was great to have a day dedicated to recognising their work, and vet nursing as a profession.
“In some countries, it is not so well recognised and respected as it is here, so I feel very lucky to be working in Australia, and at Healesville Sanctuary,” she said.

In any one day, patients on the ‘sick list’ at Healesville Sanctuary’s Australian Wildlife Health Centre can include a bearded dragon, feathertail glider, long-nosed potoroo, wedge-tailed eagle, orange-bellied parrot, super parrot, juvenile powerful owl and a truckload of turtles. And, they are just some of the 1500 or so animals the sanctuary’s vet nurse team deals with each year. The team celebrated their chosen profession on Friday, 13 October, along with veterinary nurses everywhere, as part of National Vet Nurse Day, an initiative of the Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia. Senior Vet Nurse Jodi Sievwright heads the sanctuary team which includes Sarah Kaiser, Ellen Richmond, Kelly Wynn and Gerry Ross. Growing up in the country, Jodi said she always wanted to work with animals and got a foot in the door as a volunteer with the RSPCA. It’s not an easy profession to break into, and to be qualified in Australia entails a two-year course with a prerequisite that you have worked in the industry. Jodi said while a love of animals was a given, there was a lot more to the job. “It’s a skill to be a vet nurse,” she said. “It’s not just about cuddling the animals, it is about common sense, recognising illness and applying all the technical and practical skills you learn. “There are so many different species to learn about, and making the transition from small animals to wildlife is a whole new learning curve,” she said. Sanctuary director Ross Williamson welcomed National Vet Nurse Day as an opportunity to highlight the valuable role they play in caring for animals that are taken to the sanctuary after being found orphaned, injured or sick. “Our team’s number one goal is to see these animals released back into the wild, and they work very hard on a case by case basis to provide world-class care to our unique wildlife,” Mr Williamson said. “It’s hard not to be inspired by the work our expert team does every day, at the forefront of wildlife care and welfare, when you see them in action at the Australian Wildlife Health Centre.” Visitors to the sanctuary can see the vets and the vet nurses in action at all stages of an animal’s care in the innovative glass-walled hospital and learn more about the work they do at daily talks at 11am, 1.30pm and 3pm. Jodi said it was great to have a day dedicated to recognising their work, and vet nursing as a profession. “In some countries, it is not so well recognised and respected as it is here, so I feel very lucky to be working in Australia, and at Healesville Sanctuary,” she said.

A bronze plaque will be a permanent acknowledgement of the suffering of victims of sexual abuse in the Healesville parish.
The ceremony of dedication will take place at the end of a Mass of Healing and Hope to be held by the parish community on Wednesday, 25 October, at St Brigid’s Catholic Church at 7pm.
The plaque will replace ribbons that were placed in the church grounds as a statement of support for victims, after the manner of the Loud Fence movement that began in Ballarat a few years ago in response to abuse by Catholic priests in that region.
Wording on the plaque will read: “In recognition of those who have suffered through betrayal of trust…”.
Two Healesville priests have been convicted on child sexual abuse charges, David Daniel in 2000 and Paul Pavlou in 2009.
The parish is inviting those who have been sexually abused by any priests in the parish, and others affected – families of victims, teachers and parish staff who tried to warn of the danger, and the people who support victims, to join the parish community in working to heal the hurt.
“We have been wanting to do this for a long time,” parish pastoral associate Debbie Edwards said.
“At last, we have the opportunity to make it happen.”
The opportunity arose out of an initiative of the Lookout4Children group whose purpose is to support victims and promote an awareness of the issue in Healesville.
“The group approached the parish with a proposal to hold an information forum, and a Mass of Healing was deemed to be more appropriate at this time,” a spokesperson for ‘Lookout’ explained.
He said members worked with parish staff in a two-hour session planning the event.
“The meeting recognised that people may not be able to come at short notice, but it is hoped there will be other similar events in the future with an accent on healing the hurt in the parish and in the whole town,” he said.
The widespread scourge of child abuse has been revealed by the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.
The final report of the commission will be released in December, and the ramifications are likely to be a topic of interest for many institutions in Healesville.
“The safety of children will only be secured through adequate protocols and constant vigilance,” Lookout4Children spokesperson said.
Parish secretary, Paula Pearce, spoke at the planning meeting of current practices and protocols that go to developing a culture of alertness, and people attending the Mass will hear of changes in the culture of parish and school.
Another speaker will outline the concerns of the Lookout group, especially the on-going needs of victims whose lives have been damaged or ruined by abuse.
The Lookout spokesperson said child abuse, including sexual abuse, was not confined to historic instances in churches and other institutions, but occurred all too frequently in families.
The group hopes to hold a public meeting next year to raise awareness of the issue in the town.
Lookout4Children can be contacted at info@lookout4children.com .

A bronze plaque will be a permanent acknowledgement of the suffering of victims of sexual abuse in the Healesville parish. The ceremony of dedication will take place at the end of a Mass of Healing and Hope to be held by the parish community on Wednesday, 25 October, at St Brigid’s Catholic Church at 7pm. The plaque will replace ribbons that were placed in the church grounds as a statement of support for victims, after the manner of the Loud Fence movement that began in Ballarat a few years ago in response to abuse by Catholic priests in that region. Wording on the plaque will read: “In recognition of those who have suffered through betrayal of trust…”. Two Healesville priests have been convicted on child sexual abuse charges, David Daniel in 2000 and Paul Pavlou in 2009. The parish is inviting those who have been sexually abused by any priests in the parish, and others affected – families of victims, teachers and parish staff who tried to warn of the danger, and the people who support victims, to join the parish community in working to heal the hurt. “We have been wanting to do this for a long time,” parish pastoral associate Debbie Edwards said. “At last, we have the opportunity to make it happen.” The opportunity arose out of an initiative of the Lookout4Children group whose purpose is to support victims and promote an awareness of the issue in Healesville. “The group approached the parish with a proposal to hold an information forum, and a Mass of Healing was deemed to be more appropriate at this time,” a spokesperson for ‘Lookout’ explained. He said members worked with parish staff in a two-hour session planning the event. “The meeting recognised that people may not be able to come at short notice, but it is hoped there will be other similar events in the future with an accent on healing the hurt in the parish and in the whole town,” he said. The widespread scourge of child abuse has been revealed by the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. The final report of the commission will be released in December, and the ramifications are likely to be a topic of interest for many institutions in Healesville. “The safety of children will only be secured through adequate protocols and constant vigilance,” Lookout4Children spokesperson said. Parish secretary, Paula Pearce, spoke at the planning meeting of current practices and protocols that go to developing a culture of alertness, and people attending the Mass will hear of changes in the culture of parish and school. Another speaker will outline the concerns of the Lookout group, especially the on-going needs of victims whose lives have been damaged or ruined by abuse. The Lookout spokesperson said child abuse, including sexual abuse, was not confined to historic instances in churches and other institutions, but occurred all too frequently in families. The group hopes to hold a public meeting next year to raise awareness of the issue in the town. Lookout4Children can be contacted at info@lookout4children.com .

YARRA RANGES ATHLETICS
Saturday was the opening round of track ‘n’ field for the 2017-‘18 summer for both Little Athletics and senior AV Shield competition.
Fantastic to see the turnout of eager athletes at Morrison Reserve, Mount Evelyn, for the opening round of Little Athletics.
Great to see so many familiar faces of our returning athletes and the amazing group of new athletes.
The club hopes you all enjoyed the fun, sunshine, made friends and are looking forward to doing it all again next weekend.
The senior team were spread between two venues for the opening round of the revamped AV Shield competition.
Athletes can now compete at any venue to score points for the club.
The club had great numbers at both Nunawading and Doncaster tracks with numerous personal bests recorded. Results will be on the website and Facebook pages when they become available.
Next weekend the seniors can compete at Frankston or Werribee while the Little Athletics Athletes enjoy the comfort of competing on our home track at Mount Evelyn.
Please remember that Little Athletics starts at 9am sharp with warms up 8.45am.
Please get there early to help with set-up.
For more on the club, visit www.yarrarangesathletics.org.au or check out the Facebook page.

YARRA RANGES ATHLETICS Saturday was the opening round of track ‘n’ field for the 2017-‘18 summer for both Little Athletics and senior AV Shield competition. Fantastic to see the turnout of eager athletes at Morrison Reserve, Mount Evelyn, for the opening round of Little Athletics. Great to see so many familiar faces of our returning athletes and the amazing group of new athletes. The club hopes you all enjoyed the fun, sunshine, made friends and are looking forward to doing it all again next weekend. The senior team were spread between two venues for the opening round of the revamped AV Shield competition. Athletes can now compete at any venue to score points for the club. The club had great numbers at both Nunawading and Doncaster tracks with numerous personal bests recorded. Results will be on the website and Facebook pages when they become available. Next weekend the seniors can compete at Frankston or Werribee while the Little Athletics Athletes enjoy the comfort of competing on our home track at Mount Evelyn. Please remember that Little Athletics starts at 9am sharp with warms up 8.45am. Please get there early to help with set-up. For more on the club, visit www.yarrarangesathletics.org.au or check out the Facebook page.

YARRA RANGES ATHLETICS
The athletes enjoyed some fantastic weather over the weekend, with school back and footy finished.
Only thing left to do is athletics!
An amazing turnout of future Olympians at Yarra Ranges Athletics Saturday morning’s Little Athletics round.
They even needed two heats of the little kids’ race … awesome!
Well done to everyone who had a go at the various events on offer, great to see so many budding hurdlers showing some outstanding early season form.
Don’t forget to confirm your availability for relay events coming up.
The seniors competed in Round 2 of AV Shield, with club athletes competing at Werribee and Frankston.
Well done to all who competed and the fantastic performances.
Check out the website for results to see if we had more club records broken.
Can we have more than the 10 records from last weekend?
Next weekend our seniors compete at Nunawading and Meadow Glen while our Little Athletics Athletes enjoy the comfort of competing on our home track at Mount Evelyn.
Please remember that Little Athletics starts at 9am sharp with warm-ups from 8.45am.
Please get there early to help with set-up.
Check timetables during the week to see what events are early starts.
For results, news, photos and more, visit www.yarrarangesathletics.org.au or check out the Facebook page.

YARRA RANGES ATHLETICS The athletes enjoyed some fantastic weather over the weekend, with school back and footy finished. Only thing left to do is athletics! An amazing turnout of future Olympians at Yarra Ranges Athletics Saturday morning’s Little Athletics round. They even needed two heats of the little kids’ race … awesome! Well done to everyone who had a go at the various events on offer, great to see so many budding hurdlers showing some outstanding early season form. Don’t forget to confirm your availability for relay events coming up. The seniors competed in Round 2 of AV Shield, with club athletes competing at Werribee and Frankston. Well done to all who competed and the fantastic performances. Check out the website for results to see if we had more club records broken. Can we have more than the 10 records from last weekend? Next weekend our seniors compete at Nunawading and Meadow Glen while our Little Athletics Athletes enjoy the comfort of competing on our home track at Mount Evelyn. Please remember that Little Athletics starts at 9am sharp with warm-ups from 8.45am. Please get there early to help with set-up. Check timetables during the week to see what events are early starts. For results, news, photos and more, visit www.yarrarangesathletics.org.au or check out the Facebook page.

WOODS POINT GUN CLUB
A cold day greeted the competitors at the Woods Point Gun Club for the Maori Creek Championships and the Jodie Poile Memorial shoot.
A bit of a breeze and occasional showers kept the scores low but did not dampen the competition.
In the Eye Opener, Mick Ward won AA Grade outright with 29/30 while Daniel Chinn won A Grade with 30/30.
Tony Armstrong took the B Grade cash with 30/30 while C Grade was shared by Shawn Wood and John Winters, 27/30.
The first event was the Maori Creek 25 target Continental sponsored by John and Maxine Winters of Phudleys Jewellers.
Mick Ward continued his strong start to take the Championship sash and the AA Grade prize with a clean 25/25 to add to his impressive collection.
In the AA Grade shoot-off, Phillip Desmond beat Trevor Ewert for second place, 25/27.
A Grade saw Daniel Chinn and Ian Findlay go head to head with Chinn taking A first, 33/34 to Findlay second, 33/34.
Armstrong again put in a strong performance to take B Grade 24/26 after a short shoot off against Laurie Poile second, 23/26.
John Winter’s 31/33 won him C Grade with John Legge second, 30/33.
After a warm and hearty lunch we launched into the Maori Creek 20 pair Deauville Doubles with team partners drawn randomly.
Fairly constant rain made shooting conditions uncomfortable but Chinn and Wood managed the best score of 18/20 pairs to take the event outright.
Ian Findlay and Legge took second place, 19/22 after a shoot off with the Michael Bevis/Mick Ward team, third 18/22.
Two of the oldies, Dave Hoon and Frank Balcombe, won the fourth place prizes, 15/20 pairs.
John and Maxine Winters also sponsored this event.
The day ended with the Jodie Poile 25 target Double Barrel Memorial Championship sponsored by Jodie’s husband, Daniel Poile, and Daniel’s parents, Laurie and Jo Poile.
Jodie was a vivacious young woman from the Upper Yarra who passed way in 2016 and left many happy memories in the lives of all who knew her.
This memorial event was fiercely contested but at the end Trevor Ewert shot the only perfect 25/25 to wear the sash.
Trevor also won the AA Grade prize with Mick Ward second, 28/29.
There were shoot offs for all of the other grades as well with Ian Findlay and Daniel Chinn taking A Grade first and second, 41/42 to 40/42 respectively.
In B Grade, Geoff Hill, 26/27 beat Tony Armstrong 25/27 while C Grade had Michael Bevis winning, 30/32, from Shawn Wood, 29/32.
A new young shooter, Nick Alimac, showed real potential by returning 20/25 in this event.
At the presentations, Ewert after a gracious speech gave the Memorial Sash to Kirsten Chinn who was a lifelong friend and best buddy of Jodie Poile.
There was hardly a dry eye in the clubroom.
Ward also won the Peter and Ellen West sponsored High Gun sash, 74/79, while at the other end of the spectrum Wayne Poole won Rob Bevis Low Gun with 43/70.
Next shoot at Woods Point is the Bernie Elstrek Memorial Championships on Sunday 22 October, starting at 10am.

WOODS POINT GUN CLUB A cold day greeted the competitors at the Woods Point Gun Club for the Maori Creek Championships and the Jodie Poile Memorial shoot. A bit of a breeze and occasional showers kept the scores low but did not dampen the competition. In the Eye Opener, Mick Ward won AA Grade outright with 29/30 while Daniel Chinn won A Grade with 30/30. Tony Armstrong took the B Grade cash with 30/30 while C Grade was shared by Shawn Wood and John Winters, 27/30. The first event was the Maori Creek 25 target Continental sponsored by John and Maxine Winters of Phudleys Jewellers. Mick Ward continued his strong start to take the Championship sash and the AA Grade prize with a clean 25/25 to add to his impressive collection. In the AA Grade shoot-off, Phillip Desmond beat Trevor Ewert for second place, 25/27. A Grade saw Daniel Chinn and Ian Findlay go head to head with Chinn taking A first, 33/34 to Findlay second, 33/34. Armstrong again put in a strong performance to take B Grade 24/26 after a short shoot off against Laurie Poile second, 23/26. John Winter’s 31/33 won him C Grade with John Legge second, 30/33. After a warm and hearty lunch we launched into the Maori Creek 20 pair Deauville Doubles with team partners drawn randomly. Fairly constant rain made shooting conditions uncomfortable but Chinn and Wood managed the best score of 18/20 pairs to take the event outright. Ian Findlay and Legge took second place, 19/22 after a shoot off with the Michael Bevis/Mick Ward team, third 18/22. Two of the oldies, Dave Hoon and Frank Balcombe, won the fourth place prizes, 15/20 pairs. John and Maxine Winters also sponsored this event. The day ended with the Jodie Poile 25 target Double Barrel Memorial Championship sponsored by Jodie’s husband, Daniel Poile, and Daniel’s parents, Laurie and Jo Poile. Jodie was a vivacious young woman from the Upper Yarra who passed way in 2016 and left many happy memories in the lives of all who knew her. This memorial event was fiercely contested but at the end Trevor Ewert shot the only perfect 25/25 to wear the sash. Trevor also won the AA Grade prize with Mick Ward second, 28/29. There were shoot offs for all of the other grades as well with Ian Findlay and Daniel Chinn taking A Grade first and second, 41/42 to 40/42 respectively. In B Grade, Geoff Hill, 26/27 beat Tony Armstrong 25/27 while C Grade had Michael Bevis winning, 30/32, from Shawn Wood, 29/32. A new young shooter, Nick Alimac, showed real potential by returning 20/25 in this event. At the presentations, Ewert after a gracious speech gave the Memorial Sash to Kirsten Chinn who was a lifelong friend and best buddy of Jodie Poile. There was hardly a dry eye in the clubroom. Ward also won the Peter and Ellen West sponsored High Gun sash, 74/79, while at the other end of the spectrum Wayne Poole won Rob Bevis Low Gun with 43/70. Next shoot at Woods Point is the Bernie Elstrek Memorial Championships on Sunday 22 October, starting at 10am.

GRAND FINAL PREVIEW
Olinda v Woori Yallock
Saturday 23 September at Yarra Glen Football Ground
Last time they met: Woori Yallock 16.11 (107) d Olinda Ferny Creek 12.7 (79)

In what is sure to be a well-attended and closely fought grand final, Olinda Ferny Creek hosts Woori Yallock in the Division 1 grand final.
Olinda Ferny Creek will be full of confidence, after ramming home a 96-point victory against Healesville last weekend, while Woori booked their place in the decider through their 28-point victory against their opponents on Saturday.
Olinda Ferny Creek has won four of its past five matches, while ladder-leader Woori has won five in succession.
This faultless block follows a stellar season for the Tigers, who finished as minor premiers on 60 points with a percentage of 189.13, while Olinda Ferny Creek finished behind them on second on 58 points with a percentage of 182.63.
Olinda Ferny Creek coach Brendan Donovan said the players have learnt their lesson from last year’s grand final loss and are looking forward to taking on Woori.
“I would like to know that the boys can do better than last year,” he said.
“We will be best for the experience of last year. We learnt a lot.”
Donovan believes that his players are capable of playing elite footy; however, they need to be able to stay in the game when momentum is not going their way.
“We have had our ups and downs this year,” he said.
“Our best footy is good, but we need to stay in the game when things aren’t going our way.”
As Olinda prepares to better the result from last year, Woori Yallock is coming into the grand final fresh after one week’s rest following their semi-final victory.
According to coach Barry Macdonald the players are well-prepared coming into this weekend’s match.
“It’s a balance between excited and nervous,” he said.
“We trained on the weekend, and trained on Tuesday night primed and ready to go.”
The Woori Yallock coach said he was excited for his players this weekend.
“I’m excited for the challenge against Olinda,” he said.
“This is the biggest challenge of the year and our preparation couldn’t get any better.
“I really believe we are human and we enjoy these moments and hopefully the boys can get a victory come Saturday.”

GRAND FINAL PREVIEW Olinda v Woori Yallock Saturday 23 September at Yarra Glen Football Ground Last time they met: Woori Yallock 16.11 (107) d Olinda Ferny Creek 12.7 (79) In what is sure to be a well-attended and closely fought grand final, Olinda Ferny Creek hosts Woori Yallock in the Division 1 grand final. Olinda Ferny Creek will be full of confidence, after ramming home a 96-point victory against Healesville last weekend, while Woori booked their place in the decider through their 28-point victory against their opponents on Saturday. Olinda Ferny Creek has won four of its past five matches, while ladder-leader Woori has won five in succession. This faultless block follows a stellar season for the Tigers, who finished as minor premiers on 60 points with a percentage of 189.13, while Olinda Ferny Creek finished behind them on second on 58 points with a percentage of 182.63. Olinda Ferny Creek coach Brendan Donovan said the players have learnt their lesson from last year’s grand final loss and are looking forward to taking on Woori. “I would like to know that the boys can do better than last year,” he said. “We will be best for the experience of last year. We learnt a lot.” Donovan believes that his players are capable of playing elite footy; however, they need to be able to stay in the game when momentum is not going their way. “We have had our ups and downs this year,” he said. “Our best footy is good, but we need to stay in the game when things aren’t going our way.” As Olinda prepares to better the result from last year, Woori Yallock is coming into the grand final fresh after one week’s rest following their semi-final victory. According to coach Barry Macdonald the players are well-prepared coming into this weekend’s match. “It’s a balance between excited and nervous,” he said. “We trained on the weekend, and trained on Tuesday night primed and ready to go.” The Woori Yallock coach said he was excited for his players this weekend. “I’m excited for the challenge against Olinda,” he said. “This is the biggest challenge of the year and our preparation couldn’t get any better. “I really believe we are human and we enjoy these moments and hopefully the boys can get a victory come Saturday.”

Those daffy, how-could-you-not-love-them Little Sisters of Hoboken are on their way to the Dandenong Ranges to appear in Nunsense, which will play at the 1812 theatre for the month of November.
Trish Carr directs the musical which was written and composed by Dan Goggin.
Nunsense begins when 52 of The Little Sisters of Hoboken have been accidentally poisoned by a vichyssoise prepared by their cook, Sister Julia, Child of God, who, as we learn later on, has an unorthodox taste when it comes to recipes.
The order had enough money to bury 48 of the sisters but now needs to raise more to bury the remaining four, who are being kept in the freezer – the reverend mother spending money on buying a plasma TV, instead of burying the last four dead nuns.
And so, we meet the five survivors.
Led by The Reverend Mother Sister Mary, the Sisters Mary Hubert, the mistress of novices; Robert Anne, a streetwise nun from Brooklyn, Mary Leo, a novice who is a wannabe ballerina; and the delightfully wacky Mary Amnesia, the nun who lost her memory when a crucifix fell on her head, endeavour to raise money to bury the others through a fund-raiser.
Director Trish Carr spoke to The Mail about the musical and could not help but laugh upon retelling the premise.
“It makes me laugh every time I think about it,” she said.
“It’s a very, very funny show … lots of interesting and unexpected things will happen and it might just surprise the audiences a little bit.”
“It’s mayhem, but very funny.”
The musical will interact with the audience as the sisters decide to raise money by putting on a variety show, which Trish said was performed to the audience.
“It’s a musical, but it’s the kind of musical that’s a musical as a play … because of the comedy and storytelling it works really well and the audience who come to the show become the audience of the fund-raiser.”
“There’s no fourth wall,” she said.
Nunsense will play at the 1812 theatre from 16 November to 9 December. To buy tickets go to http://www.1812theatre.com.au/whats-on/the-2017-season/nunsense/

Those daffy, how-could-you-not-love-them Little Sisters of Hoboken are on their way to the Dandenong Ranges to appear in Nunsense, which will play at the 1812 theatre for the month of November. Trish Carr directs the musical which was written and composed by Dan Goggin. Nunsense begins when 52 of The Little Sisters of Hoboken have been accidentally poisoned by a vichyssoise prepared by their cook, Sister Julia, Child of God, who, as we learn later on, has an unorthodox taste when it comes to recipes. The order had enough money to bury 48 of the sisters but now needs to raise more to bury the remaining four, who are being kept in the freezer – the reverend mother spending money on buying a plasma TV, instead of burying the last four dead nuns. And so, we meet the five survivors. Led by The Reverend Mother Sister Mary, the Sisters Mary Hubert, the mistress of novices; Robert Anne, a streetwise nun from Brooklyn, Mary Leo, a novice who is a wannabe ballerina; and the delightfully wacky Mary Amnesia, the nun who lost her memory when a crucifix fell on her head, endeavour to raise money to bury the others through a fund-raiser. Director Trish Carr spoke to The Mail about the musical and could not help but laugh upon retelling the premise. “It makes me laugh every time I think about it,” she said. “It’s a very, very funny show … lots of interesting and unexpected things will happen and it might just surprise the audiences a little bit.” “It’s mayhem, but very funny.” The musical will interact with the audience as the sisters decide to raise money by putting on a variety show, which Trish said was performed to the audience. “It’s a musical, but it’s the kind of musical that’s a musical as a play … because of the comedy and storytelling it works really well and the audience who come to the show become the audience of the fund-raiser.” “There’s no fourth wall,” she said. Nunsense will play at the 1812 theatre from 16 November to 9 December. To buy tickets go to http://www.1812theatre.com.au/whats-on/the-2017-season/nunsense/

Quintessential rock chick and Superjesus frontwoman Sarah McLeod is set to impress local audiences.
With a fistful of new material to unleash, fresh from the release of her new album Rocky’s Diner, McLeod will deliver her revamped solo show at the Sooki Lounge on Thursday 26 October.
McLeod has re-established herself as one of the hardest-working musicians in the caper, through a heavy touring schedule and a release of new music in August this year.
This is in addition to her widely acknowledged, award-winning work with Superjesus.
Though, McLeod told the ‘Mail’ she had approached this recent solo release in a completely different manner.
“I headed to New York for three months and devoted all my time to writing music,” she said.
“I wanted to go somewhere cold. If it’s warm outside, I’m like a little kid. I want to go outside and play with all the other boys and girls.
“In New York, I spent up to 16 hours a day writing music.”
McLeod said it didn’t take too long for Rocky’s Diner to take shape.
“The first two songs I scrapped, but in the third Rocky’s Diner started to show itself and went from there.
“The album is about the day-to-day, the mundane which can mean so much to people. It doesn’t matter who you are, or how much you have, it’s about how you feel inside that counts.”
McLeod recently released a single and clip, Wild Hearts, from the album.
She said local crowds and loyal followers would notice a marked change in her show, although she’s only too happy to pull out some classics if the crowd so desires.
Interestingly, she has adapted one of her guitars so it essentially transforms from an acoustic into a bass guitar.
“I played around with a few guitars before this one, so I could get it right. Basically it has two jacks, with the second only picking up the bass strings,” she said.
“Sonically, the show sounds great and hopefully the crowd at Sooki will love it.”
Tickets available from www.sarahmcleod.oztix.com.au
For more details, head to www.sookilounge.com.au

Quintessential rock chick and Superjesus frontwoman Sarah McLeod is set to impress local audiences. With a fistful of new material to unleash, fresh from the release of her new album Rocky’s Diner, McLeod will deliver her revamped solo show at the Sooki Lounge on Thursday 26 October. McLeod has re-established herself as one of the hardest-working musicians in the caper, through a heavy touring schedule and a release of new music in August this year. This is in addition to her widely acknowledged, award-winning work with Superjesus. Though, McLeod told the ‘Mail’ she had approached this recent solo release in a completely different manner. “I headed to New York for three months and devoted all my time to writing music,” she said. “I wanted to go somewhere cold. If it’s warm outside, I’m like a little kid. I want to go outside and play with all the other boys and girls. “In New York, I spent up to 16 hours a day writing music.” McLeod said it didn’t take too long for Rocky’s Diner to take shape. “The first two songs I scrapped, but in the third Rocky’s Diner started to show itself and went from there. “The album is about the day-to-day, the mundane which can mean so much to people. It doesn’t matter who you are, or how much you have, it’s about how you feel inside that counts.” McLeod recently released a single and clip, Wild Hearts, from the album. She said local crowds and loyal followers would notice a marked change in her show, although she’s only too happy to pull out some classics if the crowd so desires. Interestingly, she has adapted one of her guitars so it essentially transforms from an acoustic into a bass guitar. “I played around with a few guitars before this one, so I could get it right. Basically it has two jacks, with the second only picking up the bass strings,” she said. “Sonically, the show sounds great and hopefully the crowd at Sooki will love it.” Tickets available from www.sarahmcleod.oztix.com.au For more details, head to www.sookilounge.com.au

FOR lovers of local history, and lovers of the bush, Wanderslore Sanctuary at Launching Place has plenty to offer.
On Sunday, 22 October, Wanderslore will be open to the public, its once a year opportunity to reveal the little-known treasure to the world.
The historic 1920s subdivision was saved from development, and from a planned highway, by teacher and artist Constance Coleman.
Miss Coleman inherited a block in the bushland subdivision behind the Home Hotel and over time bought up adjoining blocks, 22 in all, to create a haven for native birds, animals and plants.
As senior mistress at Lilydale High for 25 years, she lived in the cottage that her father William Rowland Coleman built as a holiday house from which to enjoy his fishing expeditions, and painted in her studio, a former railway building.
Miss Coleman gifted the property to Trust for Nature and it is curated by a Trust for Nature committee of management and Friends of Wanderslore who have over the past three decades worked on clearing the bush of weeds and returning it to natural bushland.
The rare patch of bush is very much a hidden treasure with the landscape varying from the drier ridge to the damp, lush fern gullies and, particularly at this time of year, vibrant green mosses.
Ground orchids and other wildflowers come out in spring including spectacular displays of pink heath, the Victorian floral emblem.
There are almost 100 bird species in the reserve along with wallabies, wombats, possums and native rats.
The once a year open day provides an opportunity for locals and visitors to discover, or rediscover, the remarkable remnant of bushland that gives an insight into what much of Launching Place might have been like for the early settlers.
The Friends put on a sausage sizzle and refreshments, there will be a raffle, guided and self-guided walks and an exhibition of artworks by local artists.
Wanderslore, at 2180 Warburton Highway, Launching Place (between the general store and the hotel) will be open from 10am to 4pm.
Phone 5964 5095 for further information or visit vhd.heritage.vic.gov.au/yarraranges.

FOR lovers of local history, and lovers of the bush, Wanderslore Sanctuary at Launching Place has plenty to offer. On Sunday, 22 October, Wanderslore will be open to the public, its once a year opportunity to reveal the little-known treasure to the world. The historic 1920s subdivision was saved from development, and from a planned highway, by teacher and artist Constance Coleman. Miss Coleman inherited a block in the bushland subdivision behind the Home Hotel and over time bought up adjoining blocks, 22 in all, to create a haven for native birds, animals and plants. As senior mistress at Lilydale High for 25 years, she lived in the cottage that her father William Rowland Coleman built as a holiday house from which to enjoy his fishing expeditions, and painted in her studio, a former railway building. Miss Coleman gifted the property to Trust for Nature and it is curated by a Trust for Nature committee of management and Friends of Wanderslore who have over the past three decades worked on clearing the bush of weeds and returning it to natural bushland. The rare patch of bush is very much a hidden treasure with the landscape varying from the drier ridge to the damp, lush fern gullies and, particularly at this time of year, vibrant green mosses. Ground orchids and other wildflowers come out in spring including spectacular displays of pink heath, the Victorian floral emblem. There are almost 100 bird species in the reserve along with wallabies, wombats, possums and native rats. The once a year open day provides an opportunity for locals and visitors to discover, or rediscover, the remarkable remnant of bushland that gives an insight into what much of Launching Place might have been like for the early settlers. The Friends put on a sausage sizzle and refreshments, there will be a raffle, guided and self-guided walks and an exhibition of artworks by local artists. Wanderslore, at 2180 Warburton Highway, Launching Place (between the general store and the hotel) will be open from 10am to 4pm. Phone 5964 5095 for further information or visit vhd.heritage.vic.gov.au/yarraranges.

Shostakovich’s string quartet No 8 in C minor Op 110, is the hero piece of the next Five on Fridays concert series at The Memo in Healesville on Friday, 20 October.
It’s a serious piece of music, written by the Russian composer in Dresden, Germany in 1960 and described as one of the most profound and personal of musical statements by a master of 20th century music.
Orchestra Victoria’s Waratah String Quartet – Yi Wang, Tomomi Brennan, Jason Bunn and Melissa Chominsky will present the piece as part of the ‘Music and Politics: Shostakovich Speaks’ concert.
Concertmaster and violinist Yi Wang describes the piece as ‘remarkable’ and said the quartet is looking forward to playing it in the intimate space of The Memo.
He points out that it is performed more frequently than Shostakovich’s other 14 quartets put together.
Shostakovich wasn’t personally in a good place when he wrote No 8 and Wang says there is some contradiction about his intentions when he was writing it.
“It’s titled for the victims of the fascists and the Nazis but during that time in Dresden he was being pressured by the Russian government who felt he was against Stalin,” he explains.
Concerts were cancelled and a lot of his pieces were forbidden to be played, leading him to be in a very dark place mentally.
He believes the piece can be both a reflection of the political and the personal man.
It’s a heavy piece, but Wang says music doesn’t have to be cheerful.
“It can make us think about feelings and emotions,” he said.
“Shostakovich wrote it with such intensity and people everywhere have different stories and can reflect in their own life how they feel about this piece.
“In a way, it is easy to understand,” he says. “If you listen to it you can feel the brutality of war, but you can also feel the sorrow from his heart and all the emotions.”
The program represents the masterpiece quartets written in three different centuries.
Franz Joseph Haydn’s Opus 77 No 1, written in 1799 – one of the Austrian composer’s most famous pieces, and Czech composer Anton in Dvorak’s American Quarter, written around 1893, provide lighter, more uplifting counter pieces.
Wang said the connection between musicians and audience is what makes the smaller venue concerts special, and whether classical or pop, a live performance is completely different to hearing music on a CD or on radio.
“The audience can feel the body language, can feel the expression or mood the musicians want to present and can easily relate to it,” he says.
And he believes it is the same for the musicians who he said can see the facial expressions, read the body language and communication between audience members and feel a connection.
For many people the regional concerts are the first introduction to live classical music and each piece will be introduced.
“We talk about what they meant to the composer, what they mean to us and what they meant to the era in which they were written so people can use their own imagination to understand the music,” he says.
There will also be a post performance meet and greet with the artists, and Yarra Ranges Council under its Minor Tix program are offering free tickets to people under 26 years of age.
Tickets are $26, $22 concession and Under 26 free. Book at The Memo in Healesville, the Warburton Arts Centre or online at www.culturetracks.info, or phone 1300 368 333.

Shostakovich’s string quartet No 8 in C minor Op 110, is the hero piece of the next Five on Fridays concert series at The Memo in Healesville on Friday, 20 October. It’s a serious piece of music, written by the Russian composer in Dresden, Germany in 1960 and described as one of the most profound and personal of musical statements by a master of 20th century music. Orchestra Victoria’s Waratah String Quartet – Yi Wang, Tomomi Brennan, Jason Bunn and Melissa Chominsky will present the piece as part of the ‘Music and Politics: Shostakovich Speaks’ concert. Concertmaster and violinist Yi Wang describes the piece as ‘remarkable’ and said the quartet is looking forward to playing it in the intimate space of The Memo. He points out that it is performed more frequently than Shostakovich’s other 14 quartets put together. Shostakovich wasn’t personally in a good place when he wrote No 8 and Wang says there is some contradiction about his intentions when he was writing it. “It’s titled for the victims of the fascists and the Nazis but during that time in Dresden he was being pressured by the Russian government who felt he was against Stalin,” he explains. Concerts were cancelled and a lot of his pieces were forbidden to be played, leading him to be in a very dark place mentally. He believes the piece can be both a reflection of the political and the personal man. It’s a heavy piece, but Wang says music doesn’t have to be cheerful. “It can make us think about feelings and emotions,” he said. “Shostakovich wrote it with such intensity and people everywhere have different stories and can reflect in their own life how they feel about this piece. “In a way, it is easy to understand,” he says. “If you listen to it you can feel the brutality of war, but you can also feel the sorrow from his heart and all the emotions.” The program represents the masterpiece quartets written in three different centuries. Franz Joseph Haydn’s Opus 77 No 1, written in 1799 – one of the Austrian composer’s most famous pieces, and Czech composer Anton in Dvorak’s American Quarter, written around 1893, provide lighter, more uplifting counter pieces. Wang said the connection between musicians and audience is what makes the smaller venue concerts special, and whether classical or pop, a live performance is completely different to hearing music on a CD or on radio. “The audience can feel the body language, can feel the expression or mood the musicians want to present and can easily relate to it,” he says. And he believes it is the same for the musicians who he said can see the facial expressions, read the body language and communication between audience members and feel a connection. For many people the regional concerts are the first introduction to live classical music and each piece will be introduced. “We talk about what they meant to the composer, what they mean to us and what they meant to the era in which they were written so people can use their own imagination to understand the music,” he says. There will also be a post performance meet and greet with the artists, and Yarra Ranges Council under its Minor Tix program are offering free tickets to people under 26 years of age. Tickets are $26, $22 concession and Under 26 free. Book at The Memo in Healesville, the Warburton Arts Centre or online at www.culturetracks.info, or phone 1300 368 333.

What makes something precious? When does something become precious for not so obvious reasons?
These are the questions that Healesville artist Ali Griffin and goldsmith Tim Peel are asking in their collaborative exhibition featuring at The Memo in Healesville.
In a society where money is more important than ever, the aptly titled exhibition ‘Precious’ focuses on discovering what makes an item special to its owner.
“It’s the whole conversation about what’s precious and what’s important to you … we want people to think about what they find precious,” Ali said.
“We’re looking to really start a conversation, engage people to think about what is precious to them,” Tim said.
The collaboration between the two Healesville artists has seen two different esoteric concepts come together, and despite their differences in background, the two complement each other wonderfully.
Connection to memory and the values placed upon seemingly valueless objects are the concepts informing Healesville Ali Griffin’s work.
In juxtaposition this concept is challenged by collaborating with Tim, a goldsmith who usually works with priceless materials.
Though priceless materials often take on a sentimentality of their own and they are often attached to a signifcant memory, which Tim has explored in his work.
“The objects that we place memories in can be utterly valueless but they hold memories and valuable memories to that individual, and so they became extremely valuable and more than that, they become irreplaceable,” Tim said.
This too also complements Ali’s work who has utilised charcoal in her jewellery along with melted bottles, from the Black Saturday fires in which she lost her home.
Through the palette of black, charcoal, and gold leaf laced sparingly though it, Ali explores the potential of the “stuff” around us, of loss, of renewal, of what is truly precious.
“It’s a collaboration of ideas, that these things suddenly became precious to me, melted bottles … there wasn’t anything precious about them before, but once they were melted they took on a different meaning and connection to me,” Ali said.
Precious will be held at The Memo in Healesville until 21 November with the opening taking place on 13 September at 6pm.

What makes something precious? When does something become precious for not so obvious reasons? These are the questions that Healesville artist Ali Griffin and goldsmith Tim Peel are asking in their collaborative exhibition featuring at The Memo in Healesville. In a society where money is more important than ever, the aptly titled exhibition ‘Precious’ focuses on discovering what makes an item special to its owner. “It’s the whole conversation about what’s precious and what’s important to you … we want people to think about what they find precious,” Ali said. “We’re looking to really start a conversation, engage people to think about what is precious to them,” Tim said. The collaboration between the two Healesville artists has seen two different esoteric concepts come together, and despite their differences in background, the two complement each other wonderfully. Connection to memory and the values placed upon seemingly valueless objects are the concepts informing Healesville Ali Griffin’s work. In juxtaposition this concept is challenged by collaborating with Tim, a goldsmith who usually works with priceless materials. Though priceless materials often take on a sentimentality of their own and they are often attached to a signifcant memory, which Tim has explored in his work. “The objects that we place memories in can be utterly valueless but they hold memories and valuable memories to that individual, and so they became extremely valuable and more than that, they become irreplaceable,” Tim said. This too also complements Ali’s work who has utilised charcoal in her jewellery along with melted bottles, from the Black Saturday fires in which she lost her home. Through the palette of black, charcoal, and gold leaf laced sparingly though it, Ali explores the potential of the “stuff” around us, of loss, of renewal, of what is truly precious. “It’s a collaboration of ideas, that these things suddenly became precious to me, melted bottles … there wasn’t anything precious about them before, but once they were melted they took on a different meaning and connection to me,” Ali said. Precious will be held at The Memo in Healesville until 21 November with the opening taking place on 13 September at 6pm.