Sue and Colin Emary have established a charity in memory of their daughter Cassandra, who died while pursuing her dreams in Nepal last November. The Gembrook local was an ‘inspiring’ young kayaker and avid sportswoman and was known as Cassanga to her friends. She succumbed to injuries sustained in a rafting accident in Pokhara, Nepal, […]

Upwey is preparing for another billy cart invasion as one of the community’s most popular traditions rolls into – and through – town. The annual Upwey Billy Cart Races will be held on Main Street on Sunday, 24 February and co-organiser Peter Van Santen is hoping that the event can continue the momentum gained by […]

Ross Miller’s intricate sculptures are observations of places, cultures and events transformed into monumental forms made of bronze, stone, wood and ciment fondu. They’re not just objects, but hold a narrative and are motivated by a lifetime of travel and observation which he imbues into his work. “All my sculptures are inspired by places I’ve […]

Upper Ferntree Gully Fire Brigade’s Black Saturday ordeal actually started on the Friday. Captain Peter Smith said one of his trucks was already away on a strike team down at the Bunyip State Park fire when 7 February 2009 dawned. “We were one truck down, like a lot of brigades in the hills,” he said. […]

 Mount Evelyn Fire Brigade volunteers washed cars for cash on Australia Day. The fund-raiser at Mount Evelyn Fast Fuel has become a 26 January tradition, and also features a sausage sizzle. Donations will help the brigade to buy new equipment and help to protect the community.

 Belgrave Survival Day again provided an alternative way to mark 26 January. For the 12th year, the event celebrated the survival of indigenous culture on Australia Day. Borthwick Park and the surrounding streets overflowed with people and cars. Families picnicked by the main stage, watching indigenous performances and informative presentations, including a smoking ceremony. A […]