By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
Fixing bikes and building bonds
In early April 2024, Ferntree Gully teen Charlie Blanchard, known as ‘Mr Fix It’, shared his passion for fixing bikes in a Star Mail article. The 15-year-old, who built a motorbike from scratch for a school project, received top marks, and his work was selected for display at Federation Square as part of an arts and technology competition. The article quickly attracted local attention. Margaret, a senior resident from Ferntree Gully, offered Charlie a collection of unused tools from her shed, believing he would make good use of them. “I thought Charlie would benefit from them,” she said.
Greg Sims, a local motorsports enthusiast, also reached out, offering Charlie both materials and valuable advice. “I want to pass on the knowledge I’ve gained,” Mr Sims said. Charlie’s mother, Elizabeth Symonds, expressed gratitude for the community’s support, hoping it would inspire other young people to follow their passions. “This form of kindness will shape his future,” she said. By year’s end, Charlie was set to visit Margaret again to collect more tools, continuing his journey with the help of a community that had rallied behind him.
Monbulk celebrated local talents
In October, Monbulk hosted its inaugural ‘Celebrate Monbulk’ art event, a vibrant showcase of the town’s artistic spirit. Organised by local advocate Jeanette Pritchard and artist Nikki Carter, the event aimed to unite the community through art, with a focus on celebrating the town’s unique charm.
The event featured over 100 colourful artworks, displayed in the windows of businesses along Main Street. With 107 entries from artists aged 5 to 93, participants competed in three categories: Open, Beginner, and Under 15. The artworks, judged on creativity, technique, and emotional connection to Monbulk, were a testament to the town’s diverse talent. In the Under 15 category, Auska Khean Felscher won for her piece ‘Birch Trees in the Forest,’ while Nicole Hornsby took top honours in the Beginner category for ‘Sooty.’ In the Open category, Pixie Eisele’s ‘Autumn Gold at Seamer Bridge’ earned first place. Emma Johnson claimed the People’s Choice Award for her ‘Monbulk Round About,’ which she said captured the town’s essence. Muralist Elizabeth Gleeson, one of the judges, said the event “brought the community together,” turning Monbulk into a public art gallery and inspiring both seasoned and first-time artists.
Halloween on the Green returned for its fifth year
Halloween on the Green at Ferny Creek Reserve marked its fifth year in 2024 with a fun-filled day for the whole family. The event kicked off with Monbulk member Daniela De Martino, dressed as Professor McGonagall from Harry Potter, leading the Le Pine Funerals Welcome Parade.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together. With free rides for kids, it’s a real gift, especially with the current cost-of-living pressures,” Ms De Martino said. Organised by The Philanthropic Collective, the festival featured food stalls, rides, and eco-friendly initiatives, in partnership with B-Alternatives. The event also prioritised accessibility, with affordable entry fees and free rides for children. “We want to ensure every family can join in the fun,” treasurer Mr Fabian Fillip Gautier said. The festival’s focus on sustainability and community support continued, with a variety of nutritious food options available and free tickets for those facing financial difficulties. The atmosphere remained alcohol-free and family-friendly, with families encouraged to bring their own picnics. A free minibus shuttle from Burnham Beaches helped ease parking challenges, as the event coincided with the Ferny Creek Horticultural Society flower show.
RAPA students shine in international film festival
Two young filmmakers from the Dandenong Ranges, 16-year-old Rose Ennis from Belgrave and 18-year-old Jazz Toland from Upwey, showcased their films at the Lantern and Light International Children’s Film Festival. Both students of the Ranges Academy of Performing Arts (RAPA) are passionate about filmmaking and the creative freedom it offers. Rose, who joined RAPA in Year 8, co-wrote and created a film with her teacher this year. She said the academy has helped her grow, providing opportunities to work on professional projects outside of school. Jazz, who loves both writing and acting, appreciated the flexibility of film. “You can explore so many ideas and styles,” she said. Though Jazz plans to study biology, both she and Rose are committed to filmmaking and excited to continue creating and submitting their work to future festivals.
Monbulk’s ‘The Nook’ Blossomed with Charity
Nestled in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges, Monbulk’s enchanting garden, ‘The Nook’, opened its doors to the public for the 16th time on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 November. The event raised funds for the Monbulk CFA, continuing a long-standing tradition of community spirit and support.
Created by Val Jackson and her late husband, Don, ‘The Nook is a tranquil English-style garden located at 5 Tavistock Road. Val, who had lovingly maintained the garden since its inception in 2000, shared that the space held deep personal significance. “The peace and tranquillity of the garden, created alongside Don, filled me with a sense of continuity,” she said. The garden, initially planted with native species, had evolved over the years into a vibrant display of azaleas, camellias, climbing roses, and more. A special feature was the trio of silver birches at the entrance, a tribute to Don’s passion for horticulture. In addition to enjoying the beauty of the garden, visitors were able to purchase cards, plants, and “Nature Inspired Art” from local vendors. Val hoped the opening days would provide both serenity and inspiration, all while supporting the vital work of the Monbulk CFA.
Knox Woodworkers Club distributed toys in the spirit of Christmas
On Wednesday night, 4 December, the Knox and District Woodworkers Club gathered at their Ferntree Gully headquarters to celebrate another year of community service. The club’s members crafted 550 handmade toys and gifts for local charities, bringing festive joy to those in need. Long-time member Harry Deschepper said that the club’s toy-making group meets twice a week, with around 30 active members dedicating their time and skills. “It gives us real satisfaction knowing our work is appreciated,” he said. “The feedback from charities about the joy these toys bring makes it all worthwhile.” The initiative, supported by the Ferntree Gully Bendigo Bank, helped provide toys to local groups like St Vincent de Paul, Foothills Community Care, and Impact for Women. Representatives from these charities attended the meeting to express their gratitude. The club’s social aspect was also highlighted, with Mr Deschepper noting the importance of staying connected. “It’s just as much about the people as it is about the work,” he said. With over 160 members, the club remains committed to supporting the community through its woodworking efforts, with hopes of continuing for many more years.
