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Arrange your personal tour 

Whether it’s working out in Phys Ed or working out a plan for your career, 

the opportunities are yours at Mater Christi – a Good Samaritan Catholic 

School for Girls. Experience the difference for yourself by arranging a 

personalised tour of the College. Call 9754 6611 for more details. 

Education embracing diversity, quality, innovation and care. 

28 Bayview Road Belgrave Victoria Australia 3160 

P 9754 6611 F 9752 5180 www.materchristi.edu.au 

make it happen 

Trading Hours 8.00am-5.00pm Phone 5968 3800 

A001274 

TANK 7410

About the Butler 

by Jackie Pinkster 

It was the butler, in the drawing room, 

with the candlestick. 

“It’s always the butler” Karen 

laughs. 

Emerald local Karen Collins is a modern 

day butler and no, she has never hit anyone 

over the head with a candlestick! By the 

way, a drawing room has nothing to do 

with sketching pictures, it’s where the ladies 

‘withdraw’ to after dinner. Just so you know. 

From ‘Niles’ in the sitcom ‘The Nanny’ to 

‘Lurch’ the butler for the ‘Addams Family’ we 

are quite used to watching and reading about 

butlers. But did you know that the demand 

for butlers is on the rise? 

Karen’s sister became a butler first, by 

chance and trained on the job. Keen to 

leave the plant nursery trade after 25 years 

and seeing how much her sister enjoyed the 

work, Karen soon followed, being hired 

on the spot at her first interview and also 

receiving on the job training. 

Both sisters then completed a four-week 

course in Canberra at the ‘Australian Butler 

School’. 

“The highlight was our work experience 

at Government House in Canberra. We 

served at a formal dinner for diplomats,” 

Karen said. 

So what does a butler do? Everything 

it seems. 

“They are paying you to make their lives 

run smoothly; it’s a bit like being a mum.” 

Karen goes on to describe, in practical 

terms what the job requires; organising 

the maintenance of the property and cars, 

paying bills, laundry, organising hired help 

(cleaners, repair men and so forth), caring 

for silverware and antiques, meal planning, 

shopping, cooking, wine, organising and 

serving at dinners and parties. 

The role goes back to ancient times as 

the name butler comes from the old French 

word ‘bouteillier’ meaning ‘bottle bearer’. 

The role grew to become a managerial role 

in which the butler was in charge of the 

running of the household, including the 

staff. A butler was traditionally male, with 

women being given the role of ‘housekeeper’ 

and being in charge of the female staff. 

Then, as with now, in very large homes 

and estates the staff ’s roles are very specific. 

For example the butler needs to be at the 

entrance to answer the door, but it is the role 

of the footman to actually open it! 

These days in smaller homes (often dual 

income middle-class professionals) the butler 

is required to do a wide range of tasks, even 

clean the toilet, if it needs cleaning. 

“Silent and seamless” is the motto of the 

Australian Butler School says Karen. 

“It is important to be unobtrusive in the 

family; they don’t want to be bothered with 

the details of their lives. The skill of the 

butler is to be able to anticipate what needs 

doing well before your employer does.” 

Australianbutlers.com lists these as 

the most important skills; ‘discreet and 

unobtrusive, friendly but not familiar, able to 

keenly anticipate the needs of your employer 

and be graceful and precise in the execution 

of duty.’ 

Social historian, Barry Higman comments 

that ‘as a society undergoes levelling among 

its social classes, the number of employed in 

domestic service declines.’ 

This has certainly occurred since the 

1900s, probably due to the two world wars 

and the social/economical upheavals 

and changes that were a 

result. However, since 

globalisation in the late 

1980s the demand 

for butlers trained 

in the ‘European 

style’ has risen, 

especially in 

China, India 

and the 

petroleum 

rich Middle 

East. 

Butlers 

are no longer 

confined 

to homes, 

but serve 

in corporate 

settings, 

embassies, and 

hotels, cruise 

ships, yachts and 

rent-a-butler type 

businesses. 

Interestingly, a 

hierarchy of status and 

importance remains 

among those in the 

service. 

“The more the 

Karen Collins 

prestigious the family, the greater the prestige 

for the butler,” Karen said. 

In big houses you will find a butler, 

under butler, valet, chauffer, chef and 

maids. There is also a difference in the 

way employers treat their butlers. Today 

butlers are employed as staff (with hours, 

wages, conditions) rather than servants and 

definitely NOT slaves without rights at all. 

Even still, some employers expect their staff 

to work extremely long hours with little 

notice and without recompense. 

When asked about her favourite part of 

being a butler Karen replied, “Knowing you 

are doing a useful role.” 

Indeed the ‘butler mindset’ as described 

on the Australian Butler School website is 

‘beneficial to all people within all professions. 

An attitude of devoted service to others, 

deference and the keeping of confidences 

can help all people succeed.’ 

Perhaps someone should have reminded 

the late Princess Diana’s butler (come author) 

Paul Burrell of 

this? ♦ 

June 2011 Volume 87 - Signpost Community Magazine 3

EMERGENCY 

DIAL 000 

POLICE 

FIRE 

AMBULANCE 

ANGLISS HOSPITAL ........ 9764 6111 

ECHO Inc .................... 5968 4460 

GAMBLING Helpline (free call) ............. 

............................... 1800 060 757 

GRASMERE CARDINIA YOUTH SERVICE .. 

...................................... 5940 2885 

LIFELINE COUNCELLING SERVICE ......... 

....................................... 13 11 14 

POISONS INFORMATION CENTRE ......... 

........................................ 13 11 26 

SES-FLOOD STORM EMERGENCY ........... 

..................................... 13 25 00 

SEXUAL ASSAULT CRISIS LINE ............... 

..................................... 9594 2289 

SOUTH EAST DRUG & ALCOHOL SERVICE 

............................... 03 8792 2330 

ST MARKS CHURCH ..........5968 4046 

SUICIDE HELPLINE..... 1300 651 251 

VICTIMS OF CRIME .... 1800 819 817 

VICTORIAN BUSHFIRE INFO LINE .......... 

................................ 1800 240 667 

WOMEN’S DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CRISIS 

.................................1800 015 188 

YOUTH SUBSTANCE ABUSE SERVICE ...... 

...................................... 9418 1020 

Cover: Paid political advertisement authorised 

by Brad Battin MLA, Member for Gembrook, 

Suite5/6-8 Langmore Ln, Berwick, Vic, 3806. 

Photos courtesy Jean Hayne. 

Layout Ash Jamieson. 

Signpost Office: 

1-3 Church Street, Emerald VIC 3782 

P: 5968 2855 F: 5968 2854 

E: editor@signpostmagazine.org.au 

www.signpostmagazine.org.au 

Signpost Production Team: 

Editor in Chief Peter Crawford; Editor/Writer Jean 

Hayne; Desktop Publishing Ash Jamieson; Proof 

Reader Jeanette Bunn. 

Contributors: 

Jackie Pinkster, Wayne Collins, Carey Williams, 

Walter Berger, Kym Peterson, Bill Clohesy, Owen 

Deppeler, Graham Simpson, Kath Florance, Brad 

Battin, Makaila Giles, Jill Edwards, Steve Sutton, 

Jo Harlow, Brenda Webb, Youthbeyondblue, Laura 

Smyth, Graeme Legge, Jan Cheshire, Yesha McKenzie, 

Susie Parry, Chris Britton, Graham Slater, Josh 

Boyle, Sani Yamin. 

Published by: 

St. Mark's Church, Emerald 

Printed by: 

Roda Graphics Australia Pty Ltd, 

Shop 4/1 Victoria Rd, Kinglake 3763. 

P: 03 5786 2178 M: 0411 231 302 

E: rodagraphics@bigpond.com 

Signpost is distributed to: 

Clematis, Emerald, Avonsleigh, Macclesfield, 

Cockatoo, Beaconsfield Upper and Gembrook. And 

on-line - www.signpostmagazine.org.au 

Advertising/Subscriptions: 

Contact Josh Boyle on 5968 2855 

Disclaimer: 

Views and comments expressed in this magazine 

are not necessarily those of any members of 

Signpost Community Magazine (SCM) unless 

acknowledged as such. Products or services 

listed in the magazine should not be considered 

endorsements. While every effort is made to 

ensure accuracy of editorial content, SCM takes no 

responsibility for errors. 

Signpost reserves the right to abreviate articles 

without reference to author. 

4 Signpost Community Magazine - June 2011 Volume 87 

Peter's Pen The Rev. Dr Peter Crawford 

There have been so 

many large scale 

disasters that we are all 

getting used to the news 

of another earthquake or 

tsunami or flood or fire. 

The experts tell us that disasters will become 

increasingly common. Each disaster has a 

major impact on the people involved as well 

as national economic consequences. Recovery 

takes a long time. 

Much of our planning is now looking at ways 

to reduce risk. For example, our government has 

spent one billion dollars on bushfire work since 

Black Saturday. Prevention is a complex matter, 

Thoughts from the Dungeon with Jean Hayne 

For many enjoyable years we lived in a 

‘sleepy Cockatoo’ in which we felt confident 

to let our children find adventure fishing in the 

creek, riding their horses or roaming through 

the forest with friends. It was a place where 

people knew each other, looked out for each 

other and in many ways seemed remote from 

the world. 

Whilst the children revelled in this isolation for 

adults the lack of amenities such as a bank often 

made life tougher and travelling off the mountain 

a must. 

How things have changed! 

Not only does Cockatoo now have that bank 

but also a whole swath of services and social 

CONVEYANCING 

345 BELGRAVE-GEMBROOK RD (MAIN ST), EMERALD 

Fixed price/Low cost - Sales/Purchases - Plans of Subdivision 

Transfers of title - Qualifi ed and Licensed Conveyancer 

Annette Watkinson 

Mob. - 0401 325 080 

Email: annette@buyandsellconveyancing.com.au 

The Signpost Mission 

especially when so many houses have been sited 

on flood plains or in bushfire areas. It is difficult 

to get a balance between environmental care and 

housing pressures. 

I believe that we need to plan for recovery as 

well as for prevention. Recovery work goes on 

for years as businesses, properties and services are 

restored. And that’s not to mention the emotional 

recovery for people. 

St. Mark’s has now committed a portion of its 

budget to enable it to make a contribution towards 

future disaster recovery in other communities. It 

would be good for all of us to think about how 

we can best recover from unforeseen setbacks or 

tragedies. ♦ 

helplines including the 

new Hills Community 

Strengthening Initiative 

featured in this addition and 

the proposed Cockatoo Community Link, planned 

to be up and running in the near future. 

Coupled with these is the proposed Eastern 

Dandenong Ranges Community Hub Project to 

be established for the hills district by Dandenong 

Ranges Community Bank® Group as a facilitator 

of government and not-for-profit services. 

Sleepy Cockatoo is waking up fast. But let’s 

hope it never loses that certain something our 

family enjoyed for so many years. ♦ 

A001276 

Inspiration 

for 

Living 

By Helen Steiner Rice 

Thank you, God, for sending 

a happy thought my way 

to blot out my depression 

on a disappointing day. 

Anxious hearts are very heavy 

but a word of encouragement does 

wonders! 

Proverbs 12:25 

Today you may not see any 

sunbeams, but remember, 

the sun is still there. ♦

Hills Community Strengthening Initiative 

By Wayne Collins 

ECHO Youth Services is proud to 

announce the commencement of 

the Hills Community Strengthening 

Initiative. 

Anglicare, in partnership with the Federal 

Government have recognised the necessity 

to build a coordinated community approach 

toward meeting the demands of families in 

need of extra support who are in the Hills 

area of Cardinia. As part of the Federal 

Government’s ‘Communities for Children 

Lynda Prout and Wayne Collins 

Plus’ initiative this project will provide: 

• Localised support for families – 

developing pathways for families 

through: 

• Family focussed playgroups 

• After school activity programs for 

5-12 year olds 

• In Home Community Support 

Program/extra help for families 

who need a ‘leg up’ 

• Leadership training to develop 

YOUR 

stories! 

Just as you enjoy reading other 

people's stories and experiences 

in Signpost, there is a whole 

readership out 

there that will enjoy yours. 

Don't be shy! 

email, post or drop in 

a story today. 

Community support teams. 

Lynda Prout has been appointed as the 

coordinator of this initiative and is excited 

by the opportunities ahead. 

“The whole idea of local community 

members supporting each other and working 

together to help families who are doing it 

tough is both challenging and exciting. I am 

looking forward to getting started and seeing 

the difference that can be made.” 

Lynda will raise a team of volunteers to 

assist in the fulfilment of this project and 

will operate from St. Luke’s in Cockatoo. ♦ 

If you have any queries regarding the 

project please contact Wayne Collins at Echo 

on 59684460. 

SIGNPOST DEADLINE for 

ADVERTISING and CONTENT 

is by the 15th of the Month 

Phone: 5968 2855 

email: editor@signpostmagazine.org.au 

www.signpostmagazine.org.au 


Gembrook in 

Gembrook June 

in 

June 

SONG FOR 

A WINTER’S 

NIGHT 

The wet cold weather of early May has given 

us a taste of a possible long winter. Whilst it 

can be a trial in some ways including slippery 

roads, poor visibility, inflated energy bills, short days, 

muddy shoes, aches and pains, flu and head colds, it’s 

not all bad. 

I walk past the beehives where there’s no activity, 

knowing the colonies are huddled in a cluster drawing on 

their collective body heat with perfect energy conservation 

to keep warm by slowly eating their winter store of honey. 

They wait for a burst of warm sunny weather to take 

cleansing flights, sure in their instinctive knowledge of the 

promise of spring. 


We spend more time indoors, close to heaters 

and fires, close to each other. A policeman said 

to me once he loved winter because nightshift 

was usually so much quieter as most people stayed 

off the streets and there was less bad behaviour. 

There’s great appeal in a hot drink by a fire watching 

a good movie or reading a book after hot soup or 

casserole, not to forget porridge and crumpets with 

honey. 

There’s also the physical beauty of deciduous trees, 

fungi, lichen, mist filled valleys, low clouds on hills and 

treetops, and odd bursts and shards of sunshine through 

greyness, gentle morning light, stillness, silence. It can be 

exhilarating. 

Each winter I’m reminded of 'Song for a Winter’s Night' 

by singer song writer Gordon Lightfoot, which I first 

heard more than forty years ago, and seems perfect for 

winter in Gembrook. 

“If I could only have you near, to breathe a sigh or 

two, 

I would be happy just to hold the hands I love, 

On this winter’s night with you.” 

I too love winter. ♦

Spotlight on Business 

By Jean Hayne 

More than just 

Scouting at Gilwell 

Park… 

Come and explore 

Gilwell Park in Gembrook is 

a fantastic place for both 

young and old to enjoy the unique 

experience of the Australian 

native bush. 

Established in 1926, Gilwell 

Park has been owned and run by 

the Scout Association of Australia 

Never have home and work been 

so close for Richard and Marina 

Roy, new owners of Ranges Garden 

Supplies and Bin Hire in Gembrook. 

With Richard previously working long 

hours as a store manager with Coles and 

fulltime mum Marina, factoring in part 

time work as a sales representative, days 

were far too long for them and their three 

children. Marina and the kids didn’t see 

much of Richard at all, and because of 

the long hours, Richard couldn’t partake in 

many of the family activities. It was time 

for a change. 

“Now things are a little easier for the 

family, even though we are open seven 

days a week, we have the flexibility that 

allows us to spend more time with the 

kids, as well as being able to take them to 

basketball and footy training. Our boys 

love coming to work with us. Little Richard 

loves answering the phones and taking 

messages, whilst for Zac and Matthew, 

well this is one huge sand pit for them, 

and it’s been a fantastic opportunity to take 

our business skills in another direction. We 

are enjoying the challenge”, Marina said. 

(Victorian Branch). After significant 

renovations and restorations the 

park is now set to continue a 

wonderful tradition of outdoor 

adventure for all groups to enjoy. 

Packages can be tailored to suit 

your needs whether school or youth 

camps, scout, community, church, 

or social groups; staff training 

programs, business seminars, social 

groups or wedding parties. 

Accommodation options range 

from lodge style dormitory, self 

contained areas to private camp 

Coming from customer 

focused backgrounds Marina 

and Richard place customer 

satisfaction high on the list of 

‘must haves’ in their business. 

“We’ve found that most people 

don’t want to travel off the hill, 

if they can get what they want locally, at a 

reasonable price. We have a wide range of 

stock, but if a customer wants a particular 

product we don’t have, we will try to get it 

in for them,” Richard said. 

“If needed we can also help to 

calculate how much product is required for 

a particular job. 

“We have really enjoyed meeting 

the local people, who have been very 

supportive and are thrilled that the business 

has reopened. Tradies and customers love 

the big yard because it has very easy access 

for trucks and cars with trailers,” 

Richard said. 

Ranges Garden Supplies carries 

mulches, including eucy, pine, pine 

bark, forest, red and black coloured 

chips and Soft Play®. Decorative 

rocks are also stocked including 

Honeycomb and Mud rock as well as a 

variety of pebbles. Driveway toppings, such 

as Lilydale, Castella and Tynong toppings 

are very popular. Ranges Garden Supplies 

also stocks five varieties of sands, PLUS 

screenings, sleepers, pine posts, organic 

compost, top soil, mushroom compost, 

water tanks, gas bottle SWITCHEROO 

and 45kg gas bottles are available for 

your cooking and heating needs at home. 

Recently a range of giftware and garden 

art was introduced. Of course this time of 

year REDGUM FIREWOOD is available 

for delivery or pick up. ♦ 

RANGES GARDEN SUPPLIES & BIN HIRE 

is located at 420 Main Road Gembrook. 

Phone 59681295 or 59681222 (phone 

orders are welcome) 

Business hours are Monday-Friday 8am 

to 5pm, Saturday 8am to 4pm, Sunday 

and Public Holidays 10am to 2pm. Trade 

accounts welcome. 

'Mention this ad for FREE delivery 

on purchases over $200.00 before 

July 31…conditions apply. ' 

sites, with an abundance of 

walking trails to enjoy the beautiful 

mountain air. 

After enjoying the many 

activities within Gilwell Park’s 450 

acres, such as canoeing, abseiling 

tower, bike riding, challenge courses, 

swimming and raft building visitors 

can sit back and relax in the glow 

of a campfire under a blanket of 

stars. ♦ 

For more information please 

call (03) 5968 1284 


Who's New in Business 

By Jean Hayne 

When new owner of Rubee 

Rose Hair & Beauty 

Sandra Bettesworth was just 

14 years old she came second 

in a hairdressing competition 

at school. Shortly after she put 

a proposition to her parents; 

“If I can find a hairdressing 

apprenticeship can I leave 

school?” The deal was done! 

In no time Sandra had visited 

several hairdressing salons, 

spoken to their owners and found 

herself that apprenticeship. 

“I turned 15 one day and 

started work the next,” she said. 

Over time Sandra entered 

many hairdressing competitions, 

some judged by the ‘famous’ 

Melbourne hairdresser Lillian 

Frank. 

But as much as she enjoyed 

working in salons another 

career beckoned. Sandra left 

hairdressing, completed a degree 

in counselling and spent 16 

years as a high school chaplain, 

community counsellor and 

educator in NW Australia. 

Whilst on her recent travels 

Sandra happened to stop in 

Gembrook to get her hair cut. In 

her friendly way she got talking 

to the owner and was asked if 

she wanted to ‘salon sit’ the 

business for a while. 

“It inspired me about 

hairdressing again, I got the 

‘bug’, bought the business and 

here I am,” Sandra said. 

“There may be a new owner 


at Rubee Rose Hair & Beauty, 

but the same team of friendly, 

professional staff remains.” 

Features of the salon 

include: 

• A full range of De Lorenzo 

hair products used which are 

Australian made and certified 

as organic 

• Full time beauty therapist on 

site 

• Focus on all facets of 

hairdressing 

• Specialising in styles for 

formal and special occasions, 

like debutante balls, weddings, 

and themes of fancy dress 

• A service also for busy men 

who want their hair coloured. 

Can be in and out within an 

hour. 

• Specialising in all aspects of 

colour like frosting foils tips 

splashes of vibrant colours as 

well as traditional tints 

• Open Tuesday to Saturday 

with late night Thursday 

evening 

• Seasonal fashion parades 

incorporating make up and 

attire 

• Occasional workshops for 

people to learn the secrets of 

home hair care and skincare 

• Also costume jewelry and 

some giftware.♦ 

Please call into Rubee 

Rose Hair & Beauty at 1/89 

Main Street, Gembrook or 

appointments can be made on 

5968 1090. 

Around Town in Gembrook 

By Walter Berger 

Gembrook is thriving, but has managed to retain all 

the charm and peaceful atmosphere of the 'Mountain 

Township' that it is. 

On the border between the sprawling growth corridor to the 

south, the Dandenong Ranges to the west and the Yarra Valley to 

the north, it features the best of all of those regions. But it remains 

almost undiscovered by outsiders – so far that is. 

Puffing Billy is continuing its efforts to make people realise that 

you can actually catch the train between Gembrook and Lakeside, 

which gives you a much more rural experience than the trip from 

Belgrave. Plus you avoid the parking hassles. Another option is to 

do a one-way trip and catch one of the very regular buses back. 

You get to see more, plus you save time and money. 

In Gembrook itself there has been a mini building boom in the 

last couple of years, but there are not many vacant lots left. This 

should mean there is more opportunity for trades and services to get 

work close to home. And less travel means less cost to businesses 

and hopefully less costs for the prospective clients also. 

Foodwise the choice has just about never been better in 

Gembrook. In the township there are three cafes, a bakery, pizza 

shop, an Indian restaurant with fantastic food and the fish and chip 

has just been reopened. It seems a new manager for the historic 

Ranges Hotel has been found. Plus not to forget the Forest Edge 

restaurant just outside of town. 

But not everything is smooth sailing at times. In these days 

of modern communications and mobile phones and iSomethings, 

more and more people are opting not to have a normal phone in 

their house. But Gembrook is a spread out community in a hilly 

area. Whilst mobiles will usually work close to town or on top 

of a hill, drop into the valleys south of Gembrook and reception 

can be very haphazard. Especially once you get as far as Gilwell 

Park scout camp, which is getting more and more use nowadays, 

and not just from scouts. And businesses rely on having reliable 

communications. In our meeting with Mr. Battin MP earlier this 

year this was one of the points raised. 

The Gembrook Business group supports and promotes 

all members of the group through both direct promotion and 

the www.gembrookvillage.com.au website. This website also 

has a lot of community information on it. The business group 

has consistently made an effort to promote Gembrook and its 

businesses in various and different ways, never being satisfied to 

just let an opportunity pass. 

Tourist orientated promotions have varied from maps to be 

used by local tourists, to letterbox drops of a generic DL sized 

flier in the Berwick – Pakenham growth corridor. Locally, mailouts 

have been done in the Gembrook and Cockatoo postcode areas to 

promote local businesses and services. 

Getting ‘locals to shop locally’ has been a big driving force 

within the Gembrook business community. The current project in 

the works is a fridge magnet, which hopefully is less likely to end 

up in the recycle bin than paper passed products. This again is 

targeted at local services and trades with additional emergency and 

information details, that may not be obvious or easy to find when 

needed in a hurry. ♦ 

Anybody who would like to know more about the Gembrook 

Business Group and being part of its promotions can contact me via 

email walter@carinyapark.com or 5967 7147.

Gembrook P.S. No. 2506 

Gembrook Primary School Leading 

the Way By Principal Kym Peterson 

Students are leading the way at Gembrook Primary School. It is 

really exciting to see how responsible students are for their school 

environment and their learning. There are many opportunities for 

students to have a say in their classroom and on decisions about how 

to improve the environment around them. 

The Ecowarriors and the Student Representative Council (SRC) 

are assembled with students from Prep to year 6. The Ecowarriors 

promote sustainability across the school and the SRC involve students 

in community responsibility and with giving students input into 

decisions across the school. School captains and vice captains lead the 

school assemblies introducing special speakers and sharing news for 

the week. 

House captains lead sporting events and lunchtime sports activities. 

All students have the opportunity to be a leader through the classroom 

learning program and activities by sharing knowledge and helping 

others or participating in a team event. ♦ 

S.O.S Save Our Skin 

Beauty & Massage Therapy 

For all your.................... 

• WAXING 

• TINTING 

• MANICURE 

• PEDICURE 

• FACIALS 

MASSAGE 

• (including REMEDIAL) 

• RAPID SPRAY TAN (develops in 2 hours) 

• MINERAL MAKE UP for all occasions 

• AHA FACE PEELS 

• EYELASH EXTENSIONS performed by a 

Lash Design Technician 

Find me at Rubee-Rose Hair & Beauty 

Tuesday - Saturday 

Shop 1 89 Main Street Gembrook 3783 

5968 1090 

A001278 

Charlottes on Main 

97 Main Street 

Gembrook 3783 

phone:5968 1715 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Cafe & Giftware 

Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 4pm 

Sundays 9am - 4pm (Breakfast 9am - 11am) 

Light lunches 

Beautiful jewellery, scarves and housewares 

Cosy fire in Winter 

Catering for private functions and group bookings 

Best scones you’ve ever tasted 

Great coffee 

Friendly staff 

June 2011 Volume 87 - Signpost Community Magazine 9 

A001280

THE LONG 

WINDING 

ROAD 

By Carey Williams 

Avonsleigh resident Allan Hughes 

served five years in the RAF as 

an armourer, from 1941 to 1946. 

For three of those he was posted with 455 

Squadron RAAF, the sole Australian strike 

squadron in RAF Coastal Command, which 

flew the formidable Bristol Beaufighter, 

armed with 20mm cannon, bombs and 

rockets. 

There were about 300 men in the squadron 

including pilots, navigators, gunners, ground 

crew and staff and a large majority of these 

were from all parts of Australia. 

“Cliff Barassi, a Victorian mechanic, big 

and burly and years my senior, greeted me 

saying ‘What are you doing here you Pommie 

‘so and so.’ I replied that he was right about 

the Pommie bit, but not the second part. I 

told him I knew because I was present at my 

parent’s wedding. That got a laugh and we 

quickly became friends.” 

Allan was born in Wandsworth London 

in January 1922. His father, a sergeant in 

the Metropolitan Police Force when Allan 

attended Bellingham Primary school, was 

promoted to inspector. Allan moved to 

Snowhill Primary then Plumstead Central. In 

1935 after 25 years service, father retired and 

the family moved to Widford where father 

became the licensee of the Victoria Hotel. 

Widford having no secondary school, 

Allan started work, his first job being on 

a farm, then houseboy at Walnut Tree 

House, later storekeeper and deliveryman 

for a confectionary and tobacconist. War 

broke out and his father was recalled into 

the police force in London during the blitz. 

Allan joined the RAF reserve and worked 

as a baker’s roundsman while he waited for 

enlistment. 

After enlistment Allan did his armourer 

training at Kirkham Lancashire and after 

various postings he went to 455 Squadron at 

Leuchars Fifeshire Scotland. The Squadron 

moved to Langham Norfolk to prepare for 

D-Day, which he remembers well. 

“For a full week before 6 June 1944 we 

weren’t permitted to leave base, or even make 

a phone call. It was top secret and high alert. 

The weather, previously perfect, deteriorated 

in early June into a storm which delayed the 

invasion. It was massive and thousands of 


planes were ready.” 

After the war Allan returned to his 

parent’s home, now in Wiltshire, where he 

and his father worked as clerks with the 

Department of Navy, before Allan migrated 

to Australia in 1949. 

“I had a lot of friends there, and after 

being called a Pommie ‘so and so’ many times 

I decided to see what it was all about.” 

He disembarked in Brisbane and stayed 

at a migrant hostel near the Storey Bridge 

at Kangaroo Point. He door knocked and 

Allan and Shirley today 

landed a job as storeman with the Queensland 

British Food Corporation. They had a huge 

piggery in Central West Queensland and 

large acreage of crops to feed the pigs. Allan 

was billeted at Peak Downs for six months 

until unseasonal frosts, then rain, ruined the 

crops jeopardising the project. Allan headed 

south to Melbourne looking for better 

opportunity. 

He camped at a Squadron friend’s parents’ 

place before moving into a “front bed sitting 

room with the use of cons,” and worked at 

the Country Roads Board supervising petrol 

ration coupons, which led to employment as 

clerk at the Commonwealth Oil Refineries. 

In November 1951 Allan went to Lorne 

for a break, staying at the Pacific Hotel 

then owned by John Todd, ex Collingwood 

footballer. One morning, sporting vicious 

sunburn from the previous day, Allan entered 

the dining room for breakfast complaining 

about the yobs making noise most of the 

night, not recognising Collingwood coach 

Phonse Kyne with several players on the 

next table. On their end of season trip, they 

were the culprits. 

At the same breakfast Allan met 

Melbourne nurse Shirley, on holiday to 

celebrate finishing midwifery training. They 

married in 1953. Accommodation being hard 

to find they spent the first months of their 

marriage in the single room where Allan 

boarded, before renting half a house that 

became available, then eventually buying a 

house in Mt. Waverley. 

Allan progressed in the petroleum 

industry with BP Australia in marketing, 

and as a district then regional manager. The 

family, now 

including 

Allan in RAAF uniform 

three daughters, lived for a time in Bendigo 

and Warrnambool. On the job in Shepparton 

one day he visited Cliff Barassi, whose 

nephew Ron by this time was a famous 

footballer. 

“I knocked on the door with two bottles 

of beer. Cliff ’s wife Lesley said Cliff was 

in the shower and went to tell him I was 

there. In no time he came excitedly into the 

kitchen wearing nothing but a towel. As he 

said ‘G’day Lofty,’ his wet feet slipped on the 

floor and he fell, losing his towel, leaving 

him sprawled naked much to my and Lesley’s 

amusement.” 

After managing the Knox Retirement 

Centre and a twelve month trip visiting 

22 countries, Allan and Shirley came to 

Avonsleigh 25 years ago and have enjoyed 

retirement. Allan has survived various health 

crises but retains good humour and his gift 

of the gab, which he says has always held 

him in good stead. 

“We were children of the depression. 

My father was a policeman and my mother a 

stern disciplinarian. Then there was the war. 

I carried discipline through working life. 

Now Shirley keeps me on the straight and 

narrow. Good thing I married a nurse!” ♦

No Pain – No Gain 

By Bill Clohesy 

Af ter 

almost 

sixty 

years I have 

done the 

unthinkable. 

After scoffing 

at others and 

making fun of 

countless numbers of people, I have gone 

against my own judgement. I have joined 

a gym! 

The doctor has been on my back now for 

some time – suggesting things like exercise, 

quit smoking, slow down on the wine – your 

body is starting to tell you something, he said. 

Next thing he is handing me a referral to a 

fitness instructor, telling me that Medicare 

will pay for the first five sessions. Go and see 

her – it can’t hurt. 

My anxiety level rose as the day 

approached for my appointment. What to 

wear? I have no gym clothes, I declared to 

my wife! If I’m going to the gym I need to 

look the part. Pair of shorts, tee shirt and 

sneakers – no one will take a bit of notice. 

(She was right). 

I can tell you I really felt out of place. 

The establishment I went to is massive and 

hundreds of people were working out in the 

pools (three of them) and on an assortment 

of equipment that seemed to have been 

borrowed from torture chambers of the 

Middle Ages. 

I now have a 

personal trainer – 

Natalie. How a well 

groomed, softly 

spoken lady with a 

great smile can turn 

into such a sadist is 

beyond me. Bikes, 

treadmills, pulleys and 

ropes and stretching 

(the rack might have 

been less painless) – 

were her instruments 

of torture. She has 

written me a training 

Practising in all areas of law including: 

CRIMINAL LAW 

Police Charges 

Traffic Offences 

Victims of Crime Matters 

PERSONAL 

Conveyancing 

Business Sales & Purchases 

Leases 

Town Planning and Subdivision 

Estates 

Wills & Powers of Attorney 

Guardianship & Administration 

program – five times a week – and has set 

goals for me to achieve – seven centimetres 

off the waist and seven kilos off the weight. 

They say – no pain, no gain – so I must 

be gaining if my current body pain is any 

indicator. I am told that frequent exercise 

will help me live longer and they could be 

right – I just hope the exercise doesn’t kill 

me first. ♦ 

www.falconeadams.com.au 

CIVIL MATTERS 

Building Disputes 

Employment Issues 

Debt Recovery 

www.falconeadams.com.au 

Motor Vehicle Accidents office@falconeadams.com.au 

Litigation 

EMERALD 

FAMILY LAW 

Defacto Property 323A Main Street 

Financial Issues Tel. 5968 3666 

Children’s Issues 

Intervention Orders PAKENHAM 

Child Support Issues Suite 1, 25 John Street 

Tel. 5941 8841 


A001083

Cockatoo Township 

Committee welcomes the 

development of 

‘Cockatoo Community Link’ 

From Owen Deppeler President Cockatoo 

Township Committee 

Cockatoo is looking forward to 

the provision of facilities for a 

community centre that will provide 

a ‘Community Link’ to clubs, services, 

projects, resources and people. Since 

2007, when residents of Cockatoo 

discussed what they would like to see 

happen to the disused building on the 

corner of McBride Street and Pakenham 

Road (formerly Cockatoo Kindergarten), 

there has been an awareness of the need 

for better communication and access to 

information. 

Cockatoo Township Committee 

proposed a service facility called ‘Cockatoo 

Community Link’ be developed with the old 

kindergarten building in mind, due to the 

convenient location to existing services and 

its central location. 

In the proposal we identified some key 

needs that could be met by this facility, as 

follows: 

• Community information and resource 

centre that would provide information on 

services and support available. Information 

on clubs, groups and projects in the Ranges 

Ward. The opportunity to research and 

discuss ideas, projects or concerns. 

• Youth Enterprise. Develop a program 

Cockatoo 

Post Office 

Bill Pay, Bank@Post 

Recharge Vouchers 

Mobile Phones 

Haberdashery, Cards, Gifts 

Passport Interviews 

Passport Photos 

Australiana and much more 

Ph: 5968 8109 

Fax: 5968 9812 

Fax and Photocopying Available 


Looking to the 

and systems of support for youth in the 

area to empower them and help create 

opportunities to achieve. 

• Space to run training programs. This 

would be used to identify and instigate 

training opportunities in areas that people 

request. This may be accounting, business 

management, horticulture or other 

educational programs. The trainers would 

be sourced from professional services that 

are qualified to provide training. 

• Meeting rooms. Space for groups or 

people to have meetings. These may 

be community or visiting professionals 

or services (educational/training office 

space). 

• These key needs are of particular importance 

to residents in Cockatoo because there has 

not been a central location that is readily 

accessible or suitable to the provision of 

these services. 

Cockatoo Township Committee is pleased 

to see the commitment of the Cardinia Shire 

Council with the purchase of the Bailey Road 

property (former takeaway store) to develop 

for the Cockatoo Community Link, and are 

eager to see the site redeveloped and in use. 

Cockatoo Community Link will be of great 

benefit to all. 

Eastern Dandenong Ranges 

Community Hub Project 

We would also like to say that we are excited 

and very supportive of the proposed Eastern 

Dandenong Ranges Community Hub Project 

that the Dandenong Ranges Community 

Bank is intending to support with a 

grant of $250,000.00. This project 

is designed to service the areas of 

Clematis, Emerald, Avonsleigh, 

Cockatoo and Gembrook. 

The Hub is a service that will 

bring support services like VicRoads, 

Yarra Valley Water, Centrelink, 

social support/help bodies that 

have not had a physical presence 

in the Ranges Ward of Cardinia. It 

will network existing services and 

groups throughout the region and 

provide help and support. The Hub 

would help maximise the use of 

A001035 

existing facilities. 

We see the provision of the 

Cockatoo Community Link as 

supportive and compatible with 

the Eastern Dandenong Ranges 

Community Hub Project but they 

are two separate projects and should 

not be confused with each other. 

Mc Bride Street Kindergarten 

The redevelopment of the site of the 

old McBride Street kinder provides the 

opportunity for a memorial and reflection 

area commemorating the Ash Wednesday 

fires that devastated the town. The old 

kinder is of particular significance because it 

sheltered hundreds of people, including 120 

children, during the fire. Princess Diana and 

Prince Charles visited the town shortly after 

the fire and planted a tree in the grounds of 

the kinder. 

The kindergarten building was paid 

for by the Cockatoo community raising all 

the money for construction, materials and 

equipment. The sole contribution from the 

Cardinia Shire was the provision of the site 

on the Alma Treloar Reserve and Cardinia 

Shire is the current owner of the building. 

The roof of the kinder building was damaged 

in the bushfires and never replaced. 

When the Cockatoo Kindergarten group 

moved to the current premises this building 

was left vacant and over time has been 

broken into and vandalised to a point that 

the council now says is too costly to repair. 

The Cockatoo Township Committee asks 

people to be supportive and involved in the 

development of these two local projects as 

they will benefit everyone, with opportunities 

to provide input occurring at community 

meetings in the near future. ♦ 

Please contact Owen Deppeler on 

0400 543 626 for more information. 

For Quality Advice & Service 

in a Friendly Atmosphere 

5968 8555 

Monday to Friday 9am - 5.30pm 

Saturday 9am - 12pm 

A00883

Future in Cockatoo 

www.hillsnils.org.au email: info@hillsnils.org.au 

At last...a Proposal for 

a Memorial Site to Ash 

Wednesday in Cockatoo 

In answer to Signpost’s ‘Looking to 

the Future in Ranges Ward’ article in 

the May edition which referred to the 

possible regeneration of the former 

McBride Street kindergarten area in 

Cockatoo, Graham Simpson, former 

Captain Cockatoo Fire Brigade 

(1982–1993), resident of Cockatoo 

for 34 years and past president 

and still active member of Cockatoo 

Township Committee, has supplied a 

copy of a discussion paper he recently 

wrote setting out an achievable use 

for the area. An area he said had 

been underutilised for many years. 

YOGA IS FOR EVERYBODY 

improve your life at any age 

classes for all levels of fitness 

located at 

Cardinia-Casey-Community 

Health Service Centre 

McBride St 

Cockatoo 3781 

For all inquiries Phone Jenny 

5968-8850 

0422-058-199 A000825 

“I believe this is an excellent site to 

combine remembrance, open space, a place 

of solitude and reflection, a playground that 

is close to the town centre and somewhere 

for visitors to understand the significance 

of the site in relation to Ash Wednesday,” 

Graham said. 

“Cockatoo had an historic event in 

1983 during the firestorm and it should be 

recognised in some way in order to remember 

what so many individuals suffered on that 

evening.” 

“With no monument to Ash Wednesday 

in the town and the 30th anniversary coming 

up in 2013, it would be a perfect site for such 

a memorial, especially as most of the current 

infrastructure can be retained and reborn for 

this project.” 

Cockatoo Township Committee has 

supported Graeme’s discussion paper which 

can be viewed at www.cockatootownship. 

com.au. But their backing is only a 

beginning. Your feedback is needed to 

take the idea further. You ‘can’ make a 

difference! 

Please read the full submission and 

send your comments to ctcadmin@ 

netspace.net.au 

Edited version of the Ash Wednesday 

memorial discussion paper 

Background: 

In 1977 Pakenham Shire Council 

built a kindergarten in Mc Bride Street 

Cockatoo to service the growing 

population in the area. The building was 

something different being circular in 

shape with big glass windows facing 

Mc Bride Street. 

It was anticipated that with a false 

facade around the roof line it would resemble 

a children’s carousel or merry go round. 

On the 16th of February 1983, when 

the bushfires were raging through Cockatoo 

township, approximately 300 women, 

children, aged and infirmed people along 

with many pets took shelter in this building. 

Several brave men climbed on the roof 

and continually sprayed water over the 

building to stop it from igniting as the roof 

was covered in a bitumen roofing material 

and was considered very flammable. 

In the days after Ash Wednesday the 

building was used by the Red Cross as a 

registration centre. 

On the 25th of March 1983 Cockatoo 

was visited by HRH Prince Charles and 

Princess Diana. During this visit they jointly 

planted a tree in the kindergarten grounds 

to mark the occasion. This tree still thrives 

in this contained area. The kindergarten 

returned to a childhood learning facility until 

2005. 

The leaks in the roof that had not been 

successfully repaired after Ash Wednesday 

made the facility unusable. The kinder 

closed and moved up to Bailey Road, where 

it is today. Since then the building has lain 

dormant and has been subjected to some 

severe vandalism. 

Two of the Aims are: 

1/ To establish a dedicated site to the 

remembrance of the horrific event that 

occurred in Cockatoo on the 16th February 

1983 

2/ To establish an ‘Open Space’ 

recreation area that merges and compliments 

with the existing paths and open parkland 

and sporting facilities and uses established 

infrastructure. ♦ 


The Upper Beaconsfield branch of 

the Country Women’s Association 

has been operating for 53 years. 

In the earlier years the branch meetings 

were held in member’s homes, as most of 

the members were very busy housewives 

and mums, also some of the ladies worked 

on the land. 

In most recent years the branch has been 

lucky enough to hold our meetings at St. 

John’s Church at Upper Beaconsfield on the 

fourth Friday in the month at 1.30 PM. 

The branch members can get very busy 

Upper Beaconsfield 

Post Office & 

Gift Shop 

New Range of Gifts Arrived including: 

New mounted Natural Images 

z of Upper Beaconsfield & 

Surrounding Areas 

zz 

Homemade G.O.R.G.E Chocolate 

zz Microwaveable Slippies for cold 

nights to keep your feet warm 

zz Microwaveable toys including 

Cows, Sheep, Bears, Dogs, Monkey 

& Elephant 

Also Cards, Wrapping, Postage Services, all Australia Post 

Services including Billpay and packaging 

4 Salisbury Rd 

Upper Beaconsfield 

Ph. 5944 3200 A001264 


during any one year with catering, 

and assisting with flood and fire 

relief. 

After the Black Saturday fires 

our branch held a couple of 

days at Fountain Gate Shopping 

Centre outside Safeway, collecting 

donations of toiletries and anything 

for pamper packs so they could be 

packed up for us to give to the fire 

victims up at Callignee. By the time 

we made up the 102 packs, along with cash 

donations, and Mountain bike, we worked 

out they were donated 

over $15,000 worth 

of goods, and that 

was just the first of 

many trips to the 

South Traralgon 

Relief Centre. 

The members 

in our branch had 

a pamper day later 

that year and for 

Christmas we made 

all the ladies some 

lovely aprons. 

Some of our longer 

standing members 

had had their own 

With Others in 

Mind... 

Behind the scenes at 

Upper Beaconsfield CWA 

By Kath Florance 

Some of the CWA members amongst the Pamper Packs 

experiences with the Ash Wednesday Fire 

with some losing their home and livelihood, 

but as with 2009 the CWA stepped up to the 

mark helping and caring for people, some 

even opened their homes. 

Over the last couple of years we have 

made coleslaw and gravy for the Pakenham 

Lions Club for their 'Need for Feed' 

weekends. Members’ homes are opened up 

for these jobs and I can tell you it is not all 

work as we have lots of laughs and fun. 

Some of the members in our branch 

are quite crafty and great at cooking and 

growing and baking, so we all do very well at 

local shows, group and state exhibitions. 

Not all of us are creative but we all have 

something special to give even if it is just a 

friendly ear. We also have ladies with talents 

in lots of other areas. ♦ 

IT’S TAX TIME AGAIN 

For fast and efficient help with... 

� Company Returns � Business Returns 

� Individual Returns 

� GST/BAS Statements 

Alexander Neil & Associates 

PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS 

Registered Tax Agents 

329 Main Road, Emerald 

Ph: 5968 6062 Fax: 5968 6247 

Email: Office@alexneil.com.au 

A000809

EMERALD residents will soon have access to 

round-the-clock emergency services. 

From the Office of Brad Battin, MLA 

The Coalition has delivered its election promise to upgrade 

Emerald Police and Emerald ambulance stations to 

24-hours, ensuring residents are covered 24/7. 

These upgrades will significantly improve ambulance and police 

response times in the hills. 

"Emergencies can happen any time of day or night, so I am sure 

residents will be comforted to know that help is always close-by," 

Brad Battin said. 

This year’s State Budget also includes funding to expand Emerald 

Police Station so that it can accommodate extra police officers as 

they arrive. 

"Police station infrastructure upgrades are a crucial component 

of the Coalition Government’s commitment to boost police 

numbers and improve the safety of Victorians. 

"The Coalition will deliver 1700 new frontline police over the 

next three years - the largest ever number of Victoria Police recruits 

in a single term of government in Victoria’s history. 

"Victoria will also have an extra 

340 ambulance staff to respond 

across the state, including a new 

Motorbike Paramedic Team. 

"The Coalition will also halve 

Ambulance Victoria membership 

fees as part of our commitment 

to ease cost of living pressures. 

Emerald, Belgrave and Yarra 

Junction ambulance stations have 

all been funded in this budget 

to deliver on our commitment 

to Gembrook Electorate," Brad 

Battin said. ♦ 

If you would like more 

information on these upgrades 

please contact my office on 

(03) 9796 1987 or visit my 

website at www.bradbattin.com. 

This is a paid political advertisement 

Member for Gembrook 


Kitchen ‘Fun’damentals 

CLOSING DOWN 

SALE 

Everything must be sold! 


5b McBride Street, Cockatoo 

www.kitchenfundamentals.net 

Ph: 5968 9015 

Fax: 5968 8415 

Emerald Gardens 

Nursery 

Spend over $150.00 & Receive 

FREE 

one Metre 3 of Quality A-grade mulch 

(approx 6x4 trailer or ute full, pickup on weekends only) 

THAT’S A SAVING OF OVER $50.00!! 

77A Emerald-Monbulk Road, Emerald 

Ph: 5968 5745 or 0438 684 408 A001277 

David & Tracey Sharp are pleased to 

announce the happy & safe arrival of their 

third son Charlie, born on the 21st of April 

2011. A little brother to Harry & Liam. 

A big thank you to Sharon & Donna at the 

Angliss. 

Justice 

of the 

Peace 

In attendance at 

Emerald Library 

from 1.00 pm 

until 3.00 pm on 

Tuesdays 

Gifts 

Kitchenwares 

Homewares 

Utensils 

B-SCEN 

A001279

What’s Happening @ 

Emerald Library in June 

By Makaila Giles 

Storytime 

Pre-school storytime can be a special 

sharing time with your child as well as being 

great fun. Storytime provides an introduction 

to a wide range of children’s books, stimulates 

new ideas and interests, helps develop 

language skills and provides children with an 

opportunity to socialise. It is most suitable for 

three to five year olds. 

Join us for a fantastic, wonderful, magical 

45 minutes of stories, songs, special things to 

make, and surprises for all! We’d really like to 

see a crowd at every session, so bring along 

a friend, or lots of friends! The more the 

merrier! 

E...... 

Storytime is held every Thursday 

morning during the school term from 

11:15 am to 12:00 pm. 

Little Rippers 

Little Rippers are early primary school kids 

who love stories and reading. Members keep 

a log of all the books they read and collect 

certificates as they reach their reading goals. 

They come to a Little Rippers meeting 

once a month, after school, where they 

can join in stories, games, quizzes and craft 

activities. Plus, they get to see plenty of new 

books. Every meeting is sure to be lots of 

fun! 

Little Rippers meetings are held once a 

month on a Thursday afternoon. The June 

meeting is June 9 from 4:00pm- 5:00pm 

Did you know you can now download 

audio books from our website? 

THE 

GILBERT 

& 

SULLIVAN 

SOCIETY OF 

VICTORIA Inc 

(Australia) 

For over 75 years, the 

Gilbert and Sullivan 

Society of Victoria have been 

delighting audiences with its 

productions of the operas of 

Gilbert and Sullivan and other 

works of light opera. 

The performing arm of the 

Society, Gilbert and Sullivan 

Opera Victoria, has been 

critically acclaimed as Australia’s 

leading light opera company and 

at the International Gilbert and 

Sullivan Festival in England in 

2007, won several awards for its 

production of Patience. ♦ 

You are able to borrow or reserve up to 

four titles every two weeks and the service 

will be available 24/7/365. Downloading the 

audio books is incredibly easy, even if you 

have never done this before. The books can 

be played on any MP3 compatible device, 

including your Windows PC or Mac and 

there is no software to be installed. Go to our 

website www.cclc.vic.gov.au for further 

details! ♦ 

Opening Hours: Monday 1-6pm, Tuesday 

1-8pm, Wednesday 1-8pm, Thursday 10am- 

6pm, Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 10am- 

2.30pm. 

Cardinia Casey Mobile Library 

Tuesday: 

Upper Beaconsfield: 10.45am - 1.30pm 

Gembrook: 2.30pm - 5.30pm 

Thursday: 

Cockatoo: 1.30pm – 7.30pm 


Louise, 


Emerald Secondary 

College Students’ 

Artworks in Galleries!!!! 

By Jill Edwards, Arts KLA Coordinator 

Tiffany Lucas (2010 Yr 12) and Megan Longsdale (2010 

Yr 11) ESC Studio Arts students’ artworks were selected 

by the Yarra Ranges Arts Managers for the 2011 VCE 

Creative Showcase Exhibition recently held at Burrinja Gallery, 

in Upwey. 

The exhibition was established four years ago to showcase 

outstanding work from visual art students in 16 schools across the 

Yarra Ranges Shire. 

The exhibition offers a view into the raw experiences of 

young people and how those experiences are worked into creative 

expression using fresh and innovative artistic practice. 

The students were honoured to be selected to participate in this 

exhibition. Their teachers, Mrs. Edwards and Mrs. Cronin respectively, 

were overjoyed and proud of their students’ achievement. 

Mark Howard’s (2010 Yr 12) ESC Studio Arts student, artworks 

were selected for the prestigious Top Arts VCE 2010 Exhibition 

that is currently being held at the Ian Potter Centre, NGV Australia, 

Federation Square, until June 20. 

Mark was very pleased to be one of the 124 artists who were 

shortlisted from 1500 applicants, in December. However he was 

ecstatic in January, to find he was one of the 53 students to have 

their artworks selected for display. 

This is an outstanding achievement considering not all the 

students had both of their artworks exhibited. Mrs. Edwards and 

Mark’s parents are very proud of his dedication and overall VCE 

Achievement. Mark is also the Dux of his graduating class. ♦ 

Mark Howard with his artwork 

at the NGV 

Megan Lonsdale with her 

Artwork Burrinja Gallery

Useless Information From Steve Sutton 

• A cockroach can survive without a head for up to nine days 

• The most widespread non-contagious disease in the world is 

tooth decay 

• A flamingo cannot eat unless its head is upside down 

• An ostrich’s eye is bigger than its brain. 


choice 

HOME LOANS 

Louise Kime 

MORTGAGE SPECIALIST 

Mobile: 0414 709 804 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Carving out a School Career 

What makes a great school? Just 

ask the principal of Emerald 

Primary School, Mark Carver. 

“Any school that has a really strong 

parent support group with teachers who 

will go the extra yard to see the kids do 

their best makes a great school.” 

Mark is married to Heather and is the 

father of three daughters aged 23, 21 and 16. 

He has taught in this community since 1981 

commencing at Gembrook Primary School 

where he was a teacher for 11 years. 

Beginning his own education in country 

Western Australia, Mark moved around a lot 

because of his father’s role as a banker for 

the NAB. 

“When I was in grade four my father was 

transferred to La Trobe Street Melbourne 

and I continued my education in Glen 

Waverly,” he said. 

Mark was offered a teaching scholarship 

at the Burwood Teachers College and 

completed the three year diploma. 

He continues “I felt I was stuck in a cycle 

of schooling and decided to explore other 

things. I was at a high level in competition 

cricket and a position came up with Kerry 

Packer’s ‘World Series Cricket’ so I took it 

and really enjoyed working in the dome 

at Jells Park until 3am and getting cash in 

hand.” 

After Kerry Packer managed to get the 

television rights to the test cricket series 

Mark was dismissed and after a short stint 

working for the VFL he took up a position 

C 

Hassle free 

Prompt & Efficient 

Any time - Any Day 

Service as you remember it 


with the ANZ bank for nine months. 

“Working at the bank I noticed talented 

people doing the same thing over and over 

day in and day out and I decided this was 

not for me.” 

Around this time he was offered a 

teaching position in Trafalgar and was also 

considering a cricket contract in England. 

“I decided to stay as I was committed 

to my relationship with Heather. I turned 

down the Trafalgar offer but took up a 

teaching position in Jordanville South, 

now known as Mt. Waverley. 

After one year there the school closed 

as the local factory was shut down which 

employed the majority of single parents 

whose children attended the school. 

“I learnt more than the kids there!” 

Mark said. 

“Also the parents were really 

supportive as they wanted their children 

to achieve. This is when I moved to 

Gembrook and realised how great it was 

to be part of a rural school. I loved being 

a part of the community and stopped 

playing district cricket in town, joining 

the local cricket and footy teams.” 

A001235 

Mark Carver and students 

In 1992 Mark started looking for 

leadership teaching positions and began 

By Jo Harlow 

at Upper Beaconsfield Primary School as the 

curriculum co-ordinator for mathematics, 

eventually taking on the position of assistant 

principal. 

“While I was there the HPV 

(Human Powered Vehicle) competition 

started. It was great seeing parents 

getting involved, especially dads. They 

would then turn up to sports days 

and working bees, building strong 

relationships with the teachers. These 

relationships are fundamental as it puts 

both parent and teacher on the same 

level when it comes to the child. Parent 

involvement is crucial to the success of 

any school,” Mark said. 

Two thousand and two saw Mark 

commence as principal of Gembrook 

Primary School. “Seeing past students 

coming back as parents of current 

students was interesting,” he said. 

“Gembrook has a very strong sense 

of community and this is evident in 

the parent support the school receives. 

The relationship a school has with the 

community is important, there needs 

to be a partnership.” 

During 2007 Mark and his wife, 

Heather who also works in Education 

as an Ultranet coach, began building 

a house in Emerald and at the end of 

that year he took up the position of principal 

at Emerald Primary School. 

“I liked the idea of working where I live,” 

Mark said. 

“Emerald Primary is built on very 

supportive relationships between parents, 

children, staff and the community. This 

school is very keen on sustainability which 

is important as it involves the future for the 

kids here. 

“Schooling is not just about literacy 

and numeracy skills, which are of course 

imperative, but about communication and 

social skills and the ability to be an ongoing 

learner. Eighty per cent of the jobs these 

children will work have not been invented 

yet,” Mark said. 

“Schools need to provide all things from 

academic to music to sport and more to 

develop happy successful learners, not just 

now but also for the future.” 

Mark thoroughly enjoys being a part of 

Emerald Primary School and a member of 

the Emerald community. ♦

And Then 

There Were 

Two By Brenda Webb 

Losing a beloved pet is always devastating to animal 

lovers. It doesn’t matter how their lives are terminated. 

The end is always hard to cope with and the gap they 

leave in the home in which they have been so much a part of the 

family yawns wide as the house falls silent. They are all different, 

as humans are, and each has personality characteristics and 

behaviour patterns that endear them to us. 

Sammy came to us from an animal refuge when he was under a 

year old. He was a happy dog. He loved children and visitors, young 

and old were always greeted like long-lost friends. 

He was adept to keeping his owners up to the mark by ensuring 

he had their attention when it was time to go in the car, time for 

a walk, dinner time, or just ‘notice me’ time. The disappointment, 

utter disbelief shown on his face when it was necessary for us to go 

out without him had to be seen to be believed. 

Stretch out a 

hand to pat him 

and it would be a 

case of ‘catch me if 

you can’ round and 

round the house at 

incredible speeds, 

dodging both of 

us, tearing into this 

room and flying 

out again. It was his 

best game. His need 

for pats and handson 

loving was on 

his terms but when 

in the mood loved 

every moment of 

being stroked and 

patted. 

Increasingly, 

bed became where 

he wanted to be, particularly when night arrived. His expression 

as he lay on the floor, eyes unblinkingly focused on me, said quite 

clearly ‘how much longer do I have to wait?’ Sammy had no need of 

speech, his antics; his happy or pleading expressions conveyed all. 

We miss the click of his nails on the hard floors; nails which 

had to be clipped every few weeks. We miss him no longer putting 

his head around the corner every hour or so, just to make sure we 

are still here. We miss his companionship both in the car and in the 

home. Most of all we miss the joy of living which emanated from 

him and which gave us such happiness. 

Having come to the time of life when it looks like Sammy has the 

distinction of being the last in a long line of much loved pets, we are 

thankful for the 15 years we shared as we say ‘Farewell Sammy’. ♦ 

Organic chook pellets & mash now stocked! 

Organic pet odour eliminator spray 1Litre $23.95 

Petrol fire/transfer pumps Slashed to: $330.00 

5’ 0” Winter horse rugs From $55.00 

New season’s winter horse rugs in store now 

Satin horse bibs Now $22.00 

Friendly, cute kittens $45.00ea 

Fox traps $325.00 

or rent for $60.00 per week 

Now stocking Equine Chia Feed 

Hours: Mon to Fri 8.30am - 6.00pm Sat 8.30am - 4.00pm 

aNOW open Sunday 10am - 3pm a Drive through convenience 

a Friendly, helpful service a EFT & Credit Card facilities 

Phone 5968 4714 

1 Emerald - Monbulk Rd, Emerald, 3782 

‘OPPOSITE new WOOLWORTHS’ 

AVONSLEIGH VETERINARY CLINIC 

24 Hour Animal Care 

Grooming Services with J. Ray 

441 Belgrave-Gembrook Road Avonsleigh Vic 3782 

For appointments call 5968 3957 (24 hours) 

Dr J. A. Hamilton and Associates 


A001267 

A000689

Health & Wellbeing 

Suicide... 

Knowing when to 

get help By Youthbeyondblue 

Young people with depression can 

have feelings of great despair 

and distress. These feelings can 

be so intense they lead to thoughts of 

suicide. This doesn’t necessarily mean 

that the person will act on these feelings, 

it’s important, however, that any thoughts 

of suicide are taken very seriously by the 

person and their family and friends. 

Our Local Community Health Centre 

(Next to the Nell Mitchell Opportunity Shop and Opposite Food Works McBride Street, Cockatoo) 

Drop in and see Cheryl or Su or call 5968 7000 they can organise appointments at the 

Cockatoo site for: 

Counselling Financial Counselling Physiotherapy 

Diabetes Education Occupational Therapy Pap tests and women’s health 

Podiatry Cockatoo and Hills No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS) 

Free or low cost 

Other services such as: 

No referrals needed Confidential 

Wellbeing for Women Group Dental Optometry Speech Pathology 0-5 

Rehabilitation Chronic Disease Management Massage 

Aged and Disability Services Needle Syringe Program available 

Drug and Alcohol and Gambling counselling are available at Pakenham or other sites 

Maybe you would like to join the following programs at Cockatoo: 

Strength Training Hatha Yoga classes (private fee applies) 

Women’s Groups (Relaxation) Cockatoo Men’s Shed 

Hills Community Garden Kiddley Gym-Pre School 

Come in and say hello we are always happy to see you 


What makes people want to end 

their lives? 

Sometimes life can be become very painful 

and problems can seem overwhelming. 

However, for others the thought of suicide 

might begin to seem like a real alternative to 

intolerable emotional or physical pain, or to 

a problem or situation that seems hopeless. 

Situations that might contribute to a 

feeling of hopelessness include relationship 

break-ups, family problems, sexual, physical 

or mental abuse, drug or alcohol problems, 

mental illness including bipolar disorder 

and schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, 

major loss and grief such as a death and any 

serious problem that is difficult to solve and 

won’t go away. 

The problems may not be obvious to 

you. 

Mental illnesses 

such as depression 

change the way 

people think, 

making it difficult 

for the person to 

see a way out of 

his/her problems, 

causing them to feel 

pessimistic about the 

future. 

How do people 

feel when they 

are at risk? 

People at risk of 

Provided by Cardinia-Casey Community Health Services-Southern Health 

taking their own life often feel very isolated 

and alone. They may feel like nobody can 

help them or understand their pain. 

If someone you know is not their usual 

self, or if they are showing some of the 

warning signs listed, you should not ignore 

it. You need to talk to the person about 

how they are feeling. Sometimes people can 

be calm after being distressed and openly 

suicidal for a while. While this can be a sign of 

recovery, it can also mean they have decided 

to complete their suicide plan. People with 

depression and/or anxiety disorders are 

more likely to have such thoughts. 

It you think you or someone you 

know might be in danger, seek urgent 

help. Call emergency services (000), call 

Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Kids Help Line on 

1800 55 1800, or go to your local hospital 

emergency department. 

Warning Signs 

It is important to seek help if you or 

someone you know: 

• Feels trapped and like there’s no way out 

• Feels worthless or hopeless and that life 

is not worth living 

• Starts talking or writing about death, 

dying or suicide 

• Withdraws from family, friends and the 

community 

• Increases drug or alcohol use 

• Experiences regular panic attacks 

• Has delusions or hallucinations 

A001096 

• Gives away personal 

possessions 

• Does dangerous, life threatening 

things 

In someone who shows 

several of these signs, a 

stressful or traumatic life event 

or the worsening of a mental or 

physical illness, can act like the 

final straw that may lead them to 

move from thoughts of suicide 

to action. 

In some cases of suicide, 

there may be no clear warning 

signs apparent and it’s only 

in retrospect that they are 

noticeable. ♦

Gembrook Township 

Communications 

Late last year Gembrook Township Committee contacted 

Laura Smyth, Federal Member for La Trobe, to highlight 

their ongoing issues with mobile telephone coverage in 

the area. They were especially concerned about areas to the 

north, emphasising Gembrook had been identified as one of 52 

towns considered to be at high risk during the bushfire season. 

Laura wrote to Telstra to raise this issue at their senior management 

level. She further raised her concerns, in the strongest possible terms, at a 

meeting with Telstra in February, asking the organisation to act quickly. 

Laura also wrote to the Minister for Communications, Senator 

Stephen Conroy, highlighting this issue and asking for his support in her 

negotiations with Telstra. 

In February she convened and chaired a meeting between Telstra’s 

Area General Manager and representatives from the township committee, 

the local CFA and Gilwell Park. At the meeting Telstra committed 

to working with the community to find a resolution to the problems 

associated with coverage needs, as part of its overall national plans. 

An obvious and ideal solution, as recognised by the township group 

and most residents, was the process of having an additional tower 

installed in the area. 

Telstra said they are looking at investing in infrastructure on a site 

north of Gembrook but need to find somewhere for a tower that 

The Cemetery Rotunda 

isn’t going to create problems for people who live in the area. There 

is also the internal process of developing a business case for the new 

infrastructure. 

"While the community waits for Telstra’s internal processes to find a 

long-term solution to the issue of mobile phone coverage, they have the 

following phone tips for the summer bushfire season," Laura said. 

• Consider a standard fixed phone 

• Have a spare, fully charged mobile phone battery 

• Carry an additional mobile phone charger 

• Upgrade your 2G SIM when they are next purchasing a phone to a 

Next G handset 

• Keep essential phone numbers nearby – including police, fire, SES 

and Telstra’s fault line 132203 

• Use 000 appropriately (only use in life threatening emergencies) 

• Keep calls to a minimum (allowing people to call emergency services 

during natural disasters) 

• Think about a satellite phone 

• Consider a Yagi antenna 

• Think about a bluetick mobile phone – a program that identifies 

mobile handsets that are recommended for rural handheld coverage 

Laura will continue to talk to Telstra and keep the township 

committee up to date with her negotiations. ♦ 

www.vizzisign.com ashjamieson@vizzisign.com 


It was a wonderfully encouraging 

night – the Volunteer Reception! 

From some 500 organisations 

within the municipality came nominated 

representatives. It is anticipated that 

the appreciation and recognition given 

to the representatives will be passed to 

all fellow members. May this process 

encourage and give due recognition of 

what is taking place. 

• Another way of looking at ‘volunteerism’ 

is ‘self-help’ whereby people link up with 

others and do something that is useful and 

worthwhile simply because the world is 

now better off. 

• The Annual Budget for 2011-12 is 

progressing and, as I write, is inviting 

submissions from the community – be such 

from individuals, groups or organisations. 

All will be given due consideration as part 

of the process. 

• Emerald’s Village Committee had the 

initiative to ask that the Cardinia Planning 

Scheme be amended to limit the scope 

of exemption for the Emerald Tourist 

Railway Board under the Public Use Zone 

to activities associated with the normal 

operation of the railway. The outcome 

is that Council is seeking authorisation 

SEASONS EATINGS 


from the minister 

for planning to 

prepare such an 

amendment. 

• The ‘Urban Fringe 

Weed Management 

Initiative’ is a $4 

million, four-year funding initiative to 

promote partnerships between state and 

local government for a ‘cross tenure’ weed 

management approach on a landscape 

scale. Weed species will include sweet 

pittosporum, solanum species, blackberry, 

coastal wattle, Japanese honeysuckle, 

wandering tradescantia and pampas lily 

of the valley. This time the focus will be 

on crown land along the Cardinia Creek 

Catchment. Removing weeds from areas 

surrounding Cardinia Creek will allow the 

naturally occurring species to regenerate – 

much is currently listed as ‘endangered’. 

• I am impressed with the suggestions from 

Cockatoo as to possible uses of the old 

kindergarten site. The suggestions embrace 

community experience, history, existing 

features and a desire to complement Alma 

Treloar Reserve. 

• Detailed investigation into drainage issues 

By Jan Cheshire 

I 

have just discovered the Moroccan Tagine. I’ve often looked 

at various tagine recipes and have been put off by the 

inclusion of dried fruit; somehow I could not imagine prunes 

or dried apricots or fresh dates in a stew with meat!! However, 

over the Easter break I decided to put the tagine to the test. It 

was a great success with compliments abounding. As for myself 

– well I really enjoyed the rich flavours combined with just a hint 

of sweetness. 

So for a very special winter dinner or supper, give this recipe a 

try; it is very easy and I am sure you will enjoy it. Please note: You do 

NOT need a special pot to cook this recipe, a good pan with a tight 

fitting lid is all that is necessary. The spices in this recipe are readily 

available at your local supermarket and most of you will already have 

some of them in your pantry. Fresh dates are quite expensive but 

you only need about six for this recipe. 

BEEF, PUMPKIN & FRESH DATE 

TAGINE (serves 4) 

Ingredients: 

• 1 tablespoon olive oil 

• 2 brown onions cut into wedges 

• 2 teaspoons cumin seeds 

• 1 ½ teaspoon ground coriander 

• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 

• 1 kg gravy beef cut into 2cm pieces 

• 4 cups (1litre) beef or vegetable stock 

COUNCILLOR 

COMMENTS 

Cr Graeme Legge 

at Gembrook 

Park (the 

natural forest 

park right in 

the heart of 

Gembrook) led 

to a number of 

options being developed as to treatment. 

The matter has progressed to specific plans 

being agreed upon. Finance will be sought 

to have construction work undertaken. 

• Even further work is to be done at 

Emerald Lake Park. The Rainbow Serpent 

Mural was ‘opened’ by the Mayor and 

reconstruction of the lakeside car park is 

due to commence by the end of May. 

• Council’s 1300 787 624 continues to be 

the ideal recourse to have your concerns 

and issues recorded with a ‘Merit Number’ 

so that follow-up actions and responses 

can be tracked. By all means contact me or 

a fellow councillor if further assistance is 

ever required. ♦ 

• 500grams of butternut pumpkin, peeled, seeded, cut into 2cm 

pieces 

• 100grams fresh dates pitted. 

Method: 

• Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat 

• Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for five minutes or 

until onion softens 

• Add cumin, coriander, ginger and cinnamon and cook, stirring, 

for one minute or until aromatic 

• Add beef and stock and bring to the boil. 

• Reduce heat to very low and simmer, covered, for 1 ¼ hours or 

until beef is tender 

• Add pumpkin and dates and simmer, partially covered, for 20 

minutes or until pumpkin is tender 

• Serve with cous cous or rice, garnish with coriander if liked. 

‘A tajine or tagine is a North African dish, named after the special 

pot in which it is cooked. The traditional tagine pot is made of 

heavy clay, sometimes painted or glazed. It consists of two parts: 

a base unit that is flat and circular with low sides and a large 

cone or dome-shaped cover that rests inside the base during 

cooking. The cover is designed to promote the return of all 

condensation to the bottom. Tagines, in Moroccan cuisine 

are slow-cooked stews braised at low temperatures, resulting 

in tender meat with aromatic vegetables and sauce. They often 

combine meat or vegetables with a variety of dried fruits, or 

honey and a selection of different spices.’ 

Source: Wikipedia 

HAPPY COOKING! ♦

Botanical Drawing & Painting 

By teacher and art therapist Susie Parry 

Despite how difficult it looks, it is possible to learn to 

create your own beautiful botanical works. 

Charman’s ‘Brookdale’ 

By Chris Britton Emerald Museum 

Reading Linda Vandenberg’s great article of Katharine 

Susannah Prichard in the April Signpost prompted me to 

write more about people who lived in Brookdale. 

Pioneer David Charman was among the early settlers to come to 

Emerald by bullock wagon. 

In 1889 he selected 199 acres bounded by Menzies Creek to Monbulk 

Road and named it ‘Brookdale’. 

David and his wife had five children, Ben his stepson, then Rose, Lilly, 

Edgar, and Percy. With the help of his sons, over the next 20 years they 

cleared the land with bullock teams. The family attended the Church of 

Christ in Avon Road, East Emerald (now Avonsleigh) (the first Church in 

Emerald built in 1879).After the service, being generous people they would 

return home, often walking with many friends invited for lunch. 

In 1901 their home became a guesthouse building on rooms to 

entertain the many visitors. Some would stay for three months, others slept 

on the floor if rooms were booked out. At Easter tents were set up for 

accommodation, they had wonderful parties, a postcard to Lilly reads, ‘Your 

piano player will be on the late train Friday night’. 

Fifty four people were known to sit down to dinner in this house which 

had a fireplace the length of the large dining, lounge room. It took three 

men to carry in logs for the fire which would burn for days. Guests were 

met off the little train at Emerald station by a horse and wagonette. 

Rose Charman’s Cottage and its Writers 

A cottage was built for Rose in 1908 on 20 acres of Brookdale. She 

later met and married the manager of Nobelius Nursery, Peter Hargreaves 

and they left Emerald for Harkaway, selling Rose Cottage to Katharine 

Susannah Prichard. Katharine only came at intervals when not travelling, 

so did not spend a lot of time here; hence she rented her home to many 

Step 1: Reduce your flower to its simplest form: 

Observe the direction of the stem and the angles and shapes 

of the flower and leaves. Reduce the flower to its simplest form by 

focusing on the fundamental shapes (for example oval, 

circle or square). 

Step 2: Detail will enhance your drawing: 

Focus on the contour line or outline of each petal 

and observe the angles and curves and incorporate this 

onto your drawing. 

Step 3: Light and dark areas will turn your 

drawing into a realistic 3D image: 

Identify the direction of your light source so that 

you can observe where the lightest and darkest areas 

are on your flower. With either pencils (HB-4B), pen and 

ink or water colour/gouache’, render your drawing. ♦ 

of her writer friends. One being Hilda Esson who was a childhood friend 

of Katharine. 

Hilda with husband Louis spent time there, before moving to a cottage 

in Pinnocks Road, Emerald where they could walk across the hills to see 

their friends at Rose Cottage. Their house was gutted by a disastrous fire 

destroying manuscripts and a hand printing press. Hilda was apparently 

intending to publish her own works, she was professionally known in the 

hills as Dr Bull. 

In 1920 Nettie and Vance Palmer and their daughters were renting 

Rose Cottage, Vance Palmer’s novel “DaybreaK” have descriptions of 

“the town, the little orchards and life of ordinary people,” a description of 

Emerald at that time. Also a short story of Vance’s entitled “The Foal” is 

set at the cottage, when they left Emerald in 1925 they sold ‘Tommy’ their 

pony to George A’Vard. 

Nell (nee A’Vard) and Albert Jeffery bought Rose Cottage from 

Katharine Prichard in 1928 and lived there for 35 years. Nell was a friend 

of Nettie Palmer often writing and visiting Nettie until her death in the 

1960s. 

Rose Charman’s Cottage is on the land where Emerald Nursery 

is on Monbulk Road, Emerald, Nell Jeffery started this nursery in the 

late 1960s, it has been sold a couple of times and the nursery is still in 

operation today. ♦ 

Australian 

owned 

family 

business 

since 1979 

David W Bull 

Funeral Director 

. . .the little things make a difference 

PAKENHAM CHAPEL 

190 Princes Highway, Pakenham 

Ph 5941 4888 

CRANBOURNE CHAPEL 

6 Brunt Street, Cranbourne 

Ph 5996 6822 

BERWICK CHAPEL 

Ph 9707 5755 

Email: admin@davidwbull.com.au 

www.davidwbull.com.au 


A000838

Motoring with Graham Slater 

Victorian State Championships 

Season Opener 

The highly competitive Victorian 

State Circuit Racing Championships 

commenced the 2011 season with a 

spectacular meeting at the famed Phillip 

Island GP circuit in April. 

Heading the multi class field was the 

Sports Car class with such exotics as 

Lamborghini Gallardo and LP560 models, 

the latest GT3 Chevrolet Corvettes, Dodge 

Viper a brace of the super fast Porches’, 

including the latest GT3 and GT3RS variant. 

These cars sound fantastic at ‘full noise’, 

which, most of the time, is something we 

don’t get to experience when we see them 

under normal road conditions. 

One interesting inclusion was the reintroduction 

of the original Manufacturers 

Championship category. These are much like 

the cars we can all buy off the show room 

floor and brought such cars as the Mitsubishi 

Evo, BMW 335i, Mazda 3 and the Falcon F6 

Turbo to the grid. 

The added improvements being virtually 

those of safety they are the closest thing 

to the original concept of the old Series 

Production class which proved so popular in 

the late sixties through to the mid seventies. 

That aside, the whole meeting was 

entertaining over both days, although I 

would recommend going on the Sunday 

to these meetings as most of the morning 


on the Saturday is taken up with practice, 

with single races for each category in the 

afternoon. 

Admission is around one third that of 

a V8 Supercar round and offers at least 12 

different categories to watch and, yes, the 

popular Historic Touring cars, Sports Sedans 

and Formula Fords are normal inclusions. 

Check our monthly calendar for dates 

and venues. Round three returns to Sandown 

on July 23/24. 

AGP: Is it worth it? 

The recently conducted Australian 

Grand Prix at Albert Park came under lots 

of negative comment before the event, and 

Starr Belle Dance 

Adult Social Dance Class 

Emerald Community Hall 

Every Friday Evening 

{improve or learn from the beginning} 

7.00 - 8.30pm Rock and Roll 

8.30 - 10.00pm Latin American only 

(salsa, cha-cha) 

$12.00 

No Booking Required 

For special enquiries 9798 5398 otherwise just come on the night 

Just come 

along! 

no doubt will come under close scrutiny 

post race. 

Anyone who watched the event on TV 

closely enough would have noticed lots 

of space in many of the spectator stands 

especially Friday and Saturday. I am told that 

this occurred because potential attendees 

weren’t adequately informed that the seats, 

which normally have to be purchased in 

multiple day blocks, were this year available 

in single day mode. 

This is a question best answered by the 

GP Corporation but one thing is for sure if 

the viability of the event is being challenged, 

Porche 911 

communication needs to at a premium. For 

sure the re-inclusion of what in my view 

is a silly and visually boring event, namely 

the celebrity challenge race, was a turn off 

so maybe the promoters should look at a 

more spectacular category such as Historic 

Touring Cars which complement the existing 

V8 Supercar, Porsche and F5000 support 

categories. They have provided entertaining 

racing in previous years. 

So to answer the question is 

the AGP worth the investment? 

The international exposure 

given to Melbourne/Victoria is 

priceless but maybe the content 

and pricing still needs a more 

user friendly review. 

A001225 

Upcoming Events June: 

Sunday 26: FFCC sprints 

Sandown Motor RacewaySunday 

3: Round 6, Victorian Hillclimb 

Championship, Bryant 

Park, Haunted HillsSunday 

10: Victorian Supersprint 

Championships, Phillip Island 

GP circuitSaturday/Sunday 23 

and 24: Victorian State Circuit 

Racing Championships Sandown 

Motor Raceway. ♦

At the 

Flicks 

With Josh Boyle 

Water for Elephants 

As a critic, sometimes you have 

to suppress any pre-conceived 

notions about a film upon entering 

the cinema. Such was the case with 

‘Water for Elephants’ as a friend and I 

were quickly surrounded by women in 

the cinema, most of whom were packing 

tissues. It is very difficult to get a true 

feeling for a film if you have already 

decided its worth upon entry. 

The film starts in the contemporary era 

but quickly uses a flashback sequence to 

ANIMALS 

gembrook 

VETERINARY CLINIC 

Dr Tom Cook 

Dr Kathy Cook 

Phone: 5968 1888 Mobile: 0422 805 299 

87 Main Street, Gembrook 

truly begin the story in 1931, 

where Jacob Jankowski (played 

by Robert Pattinson, putting 

in another solid performance 

outside of the woeful Twilight 

series) quickly loses his parents 

and assets and chooses to run 

away, abandoning a veterinary 

career, luckily straight into the 

brutal yet welcoming arms of the 

Benzini Bros Circus. 

The performances are solid throughout 

with the clear exception being Christopher 

Waltz as the highly charismatic and flawed 

boss of the troupe, August. His passion and 

vicious undercurrents pick the film out of 

straying into a flowery period piece and his 

character actually produced a loud cheer at 

one point from the audience in the cinema, 

almost as if his performance had laid a 

theatrical spell upon them. 

Reese Witherspoon puts in a balanced 

but not outstanding performance as August’s 

BUSINESS CLASSIFIEDS 

A000970 

A001130 

A001115 

ANTENNAS 

www. antennatom .com 

TV points TV tuning 

Home Theatre 

wife, Marlana, who quickly falls for principled 

protagonist Jacob. Also worth a mention 

is Tai who plays the elephant ‘Rosie’ and is 

another clear highlight of the film. 

Life in the circus during the depression 

era is not presented through rose-covered 

glasses as the violence towards both human 

and animal alike is presented vividly if not 

graphically. Animal lovers will be rather 

uncomfortable at certain points. 

The production design from Jack Fisk is 

first rate as the circus is brought to life in a 

riot of colours whilst also showing the seedy 

underbelly of the greatest show on earth. 

Themes of destiny, family and purest love 

battle with the malicious realism that August 

and his enforcers bring to everyone’s lives. 

‘Water for Elephants’ celebrates the honoured 

American tradition of the circus, provides a 

predictable love story and displays a vicious 

streak that lifts it above the mundane telemovie 

it could have been. ♦ 

3 stars. 

0412 236 592 

Licensed Telco Technician FAULTS ADSL DATA VOIP 

BIN HIRE 

RUBBISH 

REMOVAL 

EMERALD BIN HIRE 

Free quotes and advice 

**2/3 AND 4 CUBIC METRE BINS** 

**SERVICING THE HILLS** 

Call Chris 

5968 9800 

A000295 


BUSINESS CLASSIFIEDS 

BUILDER 

Call Josh or 

Jean 

5968 2855 

NEW NUMBER 

59689710 

DJ & HJ Sharp 

CONCRETORS 

• House Slabs 

• Foundations 

• Pattern Paving 

• Garages 

• Drives & Paths 

• Steps 

• Carpentry 

5967 1020 

0413 117 370 

CONCRETING 


A001080 

BUSINESS 

Does Your 

Business Need 

HELP? 

A001263 

Call OrgMent Business 

Solutions for a free no 

obligation business review 

P: 5968 3332 

M: 0418 366 418 

E: ianash@iib.ws 

CIVIL CELEBRANT 

CHIMNEY & FLUE 

EARTHWORKS GARDENING 

GLASS 

HEALTH FOOD 

HEATING 

TRULY’S 

GARDENING 

SERVICE 

• 4WD Tractor & Slasher 

• Weed Spraying & Removal 

• Landscaping and Paving 

• Firewood, Log Splitting 

• Small Lawn Mowing 

• Brush Cutting 

• Hedge Pruning 

• Saw Work 

• Approved Workcover 

Provider 

Complete maintenance & design. 

Serving the hills since 1995. 

PHONE TIM on 

5968 8575 

or 0429 137 662 

Got something 

to sell, a job 

vacancy or 

garage sale to 

advertise? 

E & A Heating & Airconditioning 

Evaporative Cooling & Split Systems Ducted Heating 

For keenest prices and a no obligation free quote: 

Contact your LOCAL specialist 

Eric 0418 536 971 or 5968 5024 

Lic. No. 30991 A000865 

A000755

A001169 

A001201 

HANDY PERSON 

Stuart Wood 

Handyman & Gardener 

Local . Reliable . No job too small 

0408 560 176 5968 8869 

METAL 

We buy all types of vehicles! Cash paid today! LMCT 10061 

Belgrave Old 

Car Removals 

Call Glenn on 0418 562 123 

or 9754 6841 

CASH PAID FOR CARS, VANS AND UTES 

$$ CASH FOR CARS $$ 

5968 2855 - BUSINESS CLASSIFIEDS 

Raised Metal Garden Beds 

A001239 

STONE WORK 

TILING 

Vic 

Water 

Plumbing 

Andrew - Ph: 5968 1378 Mob: 0418 379 536 

WATER TANKS SPECIALISTS 

ABN: 15 361 108 976 

STONEMASON 

All work 

All Stone 

Call Tim 

5968 3875 A000743 

PLUMBING 

STUMP REMOVAL 

REG No.30807 

Call Josh or 

Jean 

5968 2855 

UPHOLSTERY 


A000949

On the Mic With Sani Yamin 

Music review 

Foo Fighters- Wasting Light (Roswell/RCA) 

How do you keep your 

multi-platinum rock 

band grounded after 

selling out the biggest venues in 

the world? Send them back to 

where any good rock band 

starts: The Garage. 

The garage, his garage, 

is exactly where Dave 

Grohl sent his troops to 

record their epic sounding 

seventh album, Wasting 

Light. The album is special 

for a number of reasons. 

Recorded with a strict, “If I 

see one computer in the house, 

you’re fired!” approach with analog tape, the recording process 

pushed the band away from the if-we-make-a-mistake-justedit-it 

comfort that most modern artists enjoy, to a new level 

of musicianship. It also marks the first time super producer 

Butch Vig has reunited with Grohl since Nirvana’s now-classic 

Nevermind. Throw in the full-time return of guitarist Pat Smear 

to give the band a three guitar attack, and some notable guest 

appearances and you have something special indeed. 

The album opens with the powerful call to arms that is Bridge 

Burning, with Grohl screaming, “These are my famous last woooords/ 

My number’s up, bridges all burrrned” with such conviction, you 

might just believe he has a death wish. The gorgeous first single, 

Rope, shimmers with a disguised melodic beauty before erupting 

into a barrage of drums and a surprising guitar solo, a perfect 

marriage of aggression and splendor. 

The eclectic Dear Rosemary showcases Grohl’s growth as 

a vocalist, effectively complimenting Hüsker Dü singer Bob 

Mould’s signature baritone, making for the most interesting 

rock duet in many years. 

As with most Foo Fighters albums, there are those few 

songs which miss the mark, or are simply just filler. White Limo 

is their heaviest song to date, ruined by Grohl’s completely 

undecipherable vocals, while songs like Back and Forth and A 

Matter of Time are unnecessary, throw-away bubblegum pop. 

NiBB & 

QuilL 


Wasting Light is a strong, unapologetically aggressive rock album 

that still retains the signature melodic hooks the band is known 

for. As one of their most consistent albums, it’s a step in the right 

direction as they continue to search for that elusive masterpiece. 

Rating: 3.5/5 ♦ 

The Hills are in tune, 

with the feel of winter. 

By Jackie Pinkster (with thanks to all my local facebook 

friends who contributed their favourite things) 

(sung to the tune of ‘My Favourite things’ from the sound of music) 

Raindrops on rooftops 

And temperatures falling. 

A chance there’ll be snow 

On the ground in the morning. 

White slush to make into snowballs to fling 

These are a few of the best winter things. 

Bright coloured beanies 

Warm gloves, umbrellas. 

Gumboots and Uggboots 

Blundstones for the fellas. 

Black opaque tights over hairy legs cling 


Marshmellows, hot Milo 

In front of the telly. 

Soup, stews with bread and 

Hot chips in the belly. 

A seasoned lamb roast that is fit for a king 


The smell of clean smoke 

From the fire at home. 

Sewing and reading 

Long talks on the phone. 

Warm twinkling lights from our windows at night 

These are the things that are winter’s delights. 

Kids in Auskick 

On the oval all muddy. 

Some little Hawks whose 

Big hero is…..’Buddy’. 

Sirens and whistles are all in full swing 


When the frost bites 

When the breeze stings 

When the flu sets in 

I simply remember my favourite things 

And then things don’t seem so grim. ♦

BELL REAL ESTATE – EMERALD 

LOCAL STAFF 

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE 

LOCAL COMMUNITY SUPPORTER 

Ph: 5968 3881 

Rosalie Day Grant Day Aaron Day Georgie Edwards Fiona Perrin Bethany Day Mary Farrow Stephen Richards Bev Foster 

Director Director Property Consultant Property Consultant Property Consultant Property Consultant Property Consultant Property Consultant Property Manager 

Property Consultant Personal Assistant Marketing Personal Assistant 

A001275

Here for 

in Cockatoo/Gembrook 

This is Elise Turnedge, Branch Manager of 

the Cockatoo/Gembrook Community Bank® 

Branch. Elise is a local who has lived in 

Cockatoo with her husband and daughter for 

7 years. 

Elise started with Dandenong Ranges 

Community Bank® Group at its Belgrave 

branch in April 2006 as a Customer Service 

Officer and progressed to become the 

Supervisor before her recent promotion to 

Branch Manager at the Cockatoo/Gembrook 

Community Bank® Branch. Elise has 15 years 

experience in the banking industry. 

Elise is interested in writing poetry and 

spending quality time with her family 

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178 AFSL 237879. (S32939) (01/10) 

At the Bendigo it starts with U. 

and enjoys being involved with the local 

community. 

Elise is keen to assist you with your banking 

needs. If you can’t get to the Cockatoo 

Branch and you need to talk banking, Elise 

can come to you – just phone and make an 

appointment. 

If you want to join a bank with a difference, 

introduce yourself to Elise at Shop 3, 

50 McBride Street, Cockatoo or phone 

5968 8831. 

Servicing the banking needs of our 

Communities from Clematis to Gembrook 

and surrounding areas. 

Cockatoo/Gembrook Community Bank® Branch 

and Emerald Agency

Police & Ambulance funding... - Signpost Magazine

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