SCHOOL LUNCHES have just got yummier at Warrandyte High School (WHS).
Social enterprise café Now and Not Yet (NaNY) has stepped in to revitalise the school’s canteen and has been providing delicious treats — as well as coffee for teachers and staff — since August 18.
WHS Principal Luke Ventieri said the staff were queuing up for NaNY’s signature, roasted-in-Warrandyte, Social Brew coffees, while the revamped canteen’s delicious hot chocolates were a big hit with students.
WHS School Captain Isla says the new collaboration is “awesome”.
She added that NaNY’s not-for-profit ethos and practice of giving back to the Warrandyte community were attractive to the student cohort, while the variety in menu offerings and the friendly NaNY staff have also gained kudos from the student body.
“The students are over the moon”, she said.
“It also creates opportunities for students to develop relationships across year levels through a good meeting place with a fun vibe”.
Mr Ventieri said NaNY’s social enterprise model is a good fit for the high school, and he is excited by potential training and work opportunities for students.
He said the NaNY team had been very receptive to menu suggestions from the students and hopes they can add pre-paid ordering and VCE express lines in the future.
Now and Not Yet founder Derek Bradshaw said he had been approached by various schools with canteen opportunities over the past few years.
“Warrandyte High is the only one we said yes to,” he said.
NaNY does have a Coffee Van at Donvale Christian College, run by Andrew and Chelsea, who both live with an intellectual disability.
Backed by training, Andrew and Chelsea have gained valuable workplace and customer service experience — opportunities that were previously hard to come by due to their disability.
This is another example of what can be achieved through collaboration between school, the community, and local businesses.
With the canteen collaboration being a much larger project, there is hope these sorts of outcomes can be boosted ten-fold at Warrandyte High School.
Through the café, Mr Bradshaw supports asylum seekers, victims of domestic violence, and people facing housing insecurity, making a collaboration with NaNY more than just a catering contract.
Mr Ventieri said NaNY’s local-focused giving back model is another valuable learning opportunity for students and aligns with the school’s values of Respect, Integrity, Strength and Excellence.
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For more than 50 years, the Warrandyte Diary has been a trusted source of independent news for the residents of Warrandyte. As a cornerstone of the community, this not-for-profit community newspaper is supported wholly through advertising from local businesses.
Building on this foundation, the Manningham & Nillumbik Bulletin is fast becoming the trusted source for news, editorials, and local businesses for the communities of Warrandyte, North Warrandyte, South Warrandyte, Park Orchards, Research, Wonga Park, Eltham, Donvale, Doncaster, Templestowe, Lower Templestowe, Kangaroo Ground, Hurstbridge, Diamond Creek, Wattle Glen, Warranwood, St Andrews, North Ringwood, East Doncaster, Christmas Hills, Bulleen, Arthurs Creek, Smiths Gully, and Greensborough.
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WITH AN INFLUX of volunteers and interest in the game, the Junior and Girls’ programs at Doncaster Rovers have seen a dramatic transformation in the last five years.
To understand what has happened, and how the club is planning to continue this development, M&N Bulletin spoke with Andrea Jamieson, Coordinator for the Junior program and the Women’s and Girls program, and Nick Ansell, Technical Director for the Juniors and MiniRoos programs.
Andrea said when she first took on the coordinator role in 2023, there were only six Junior teams, and only three girls in the whole program.
“This year we’ve had 14 teams, and we’ve had waitlists for nearly every one of our age groups.
You don’t like turning kids away, but unfortunately we had to cap our numbers due to our facilities.”
Andrea added that, since 2024, there have been significant developments in the Girls’ and Women’s programs.
“We had our first Girls’ team in Juniors in 2024.
This year, we’ve got our three Girls’ teams, one in MiniRoos, and we have a very successful Women’s team as well.”
Andrea said the Rovers have 380 kids registered, with 222 of them playing in the Junior and Girls’ teams.
She says the growth in the programs, and the club in general would not have been possible without their enthusiastic community of volunteers.
“We’re a not-for-profit, volunteer-run club.
So, all our coaches, team managers, and people that work in the canteen are all volunteers.
We’ve been lucky enough to have enough volunteers to cover the growth in the club and to cover all the teams that we’ve got here now.”
Andrea said that in previous years, they have had to turn kids away due to a lack of volunteer coaches.
“But this year, I think nearly every single one of our Junior teams has a coach and an assistant coach.”
The club has seen real growth in the MiniRoos program as well, with the enthusiasm for soccer further energised by the Socceroos’ performance at the World Cup earlier this year.
“Bree is our MiniRoos Coordinator.
I think she is still getting multiple emails each day for kids wanting to join the club, and I think a lot of that would be on the back of the World Cup.”
The club held watch parties and other events during the World Cup.
“We had some great events on here at the club, which had great participation and good numbers.
I think one of the biggest issues that a lot of coaches had was kids were coming to training, and they were so excited they wanted to catch up and talk about the games they had been watching.”
But the recent success of the club is not just due to the enthusiasm generated by the Socceroos, former A-League player, Nick Ansell, has returned to his footballing roots, after a stint playing overseas, and while playing in the Senior Men’s team at Doncaster, has taken on the role as the Technical Director for the Junior and MiniRoos, coaching the coaches to help the kids get the most out of training and games.
“I’m here as a support to the coaches and also coaching the coaches at the same time, trying to give them a bit more knowledge.
Hopefully by the end of the year, they feel a lot more confident in their role as a coach.”
He added that the MiniRoos program has seen a lot of growth.
“We’ve had a lot of kids.
We’ve got numerous teams in each age level, so it’s fantastic for the club.
The kids love it, and I think that’s what we’re trying to create here at Doncaster, a really family-oriented club where the kids can come down, enjoy their football, which is the most important.
And then hopefully, from enjoying it, they continue to come to the club through under-eights, under-nines, and under-tens, and go through all the way to seniors if that’s what they really want to do.”
Looking forward, the club is launching a High-Performance program in 2027.
Initially aimed at 10-to-17-year-olds, the program, led by Nick, will help young, skilled players develop their football more quickly.
Nick provided a brief outline of what participants can expect.
“It will be for kids who love the game and want to develop their gameplay at the highest level.
Trainings will be three times a week.
It’s going to be overseen by me, and I’ll be very hands-on for the program.
The kids will also do one training session with me each week throughout the year, and we’re also looking to put them in tournaments in the school holidays to get their games up.
The kids will be playing around 40-plus games.
So it’s a really exciting time to be at the club.
This is a great step in terms of also supporting those kids that want to play at a high level at Doncaster Rovers.”
Those interested in learning more about Doncaster Rovers MiniRoos, Junior and Girls, or High-Performance program can find more information and details about registering your kids’ interest at doncasterrovers.org.
This article is based on a video interview recorded for the Manningham & Nillumbik Bulletin NewsPod podcast. Click here to watch
For more than 50 years, the Warrandyte Diary has been a trusted source of independent news for the residents of Warrandyte. As a cornerstone of the community, this not-for-profit community newspaper is supported wholly through advertising from local businesses.
Building on this foundation, the Manningham & Nillumbik Bulletin is fast becoming the trusted source for news, editorials, and local businesses for the communities of Warrandyte, North Warrandyte, South Warrandyte, Park Orchards, Research, Wonga Park, Eltham, Donvale, Doncaster, Templestowe, Lower Templestowe, Kangaroo Ground, Hurstbridge, Diamond Creek, Wattle Glen, Warranwood, St Andrews, North Ringwood, East Doncaster, Christmas Hills, Bulleen, Arthurs Creek, Smiths Gully, and Greensborough.
With advertising starting from under $100, your ad and our stories reach our entire audience algorithm-free.
Supporting independent, trusted, local media like Warrandyte Diary and Manningham & Nillumbik Bulletin allows us to continue to cover key issues with authentic voice and connect our thousands of readers with local businesses.
A CROWD gathered at Devon Plaza on August 1 as Doncaster Pharmacy officially opened under its new franchise, ChemMax.
The Doncaster East store is the fourth ChemMax to open this year, joining its sister stores in Prahan, Pinewood, and Keilor East.
There has been a chemist at Devon Plaza since the early 1980s.
ChemMax Doncaster East owner Shaz Shirkhanzadeh took over ownership of the Doncaster Pharmacy from Jeff Yarrow in October 2025, before beginning the process of converting it into a ChemMax.
Shaz told M&NBulletin that after graduating as a Pharmacist from Monash University in 2023, she suddenly found herself of being able to realise a dream of becoming a pharmacy owner.
“With the support of ChemMax, I was able to own my first pharmacy by age 25.
That was the best support I could get from the ChemMax office; it would not have been possible without them.”
Members from all levels of Government turned out to the ChemMax launch to celebrate the new chapter for the Doncaster East pharmacy and new energy in Devon Plaza.
“It’s exciting to be at the opening of ChemMax in Devon Plaza,” said Member for Warrandyte, Nicole Werner MP.
“My office is actually just around the corner, so we often come to this shopping area.
There’s a number of shopping strips along this way, so to be able to bring more people into Devon Plaza is great, and it’s always great to support small business.”
Devon Plaza was in the news in late December following the sale of the site currently occupied by Woolworths.
The supermarket was eventually purchased from the landlord, Suleman Group, for $16.35 million in a receivership sale.
According to realestatesource.com.au, the new landlord — Woolworths Group — will maintain it as a Woolworths supermarket until 2036.
After that, there is speculation it will be redeveloped as a multi-level mixed-use site with a supermarket on the ground level.
Something which would be in line with other mixed-use developments along Doncaster Road, and which realestatesource.com.au says is in line with behaviour previously exhibited by Woolworths Group.
Unlike other shopping centres along Doncaster Road, Devon Plaza is privately managed.
Manningham’s Deputy Mayor, Deirdre Diamante, also spoke with M&N Bulletin.
“It’s a really exciting opportunity for Devon Plaza to have this investment in the area.
I’m hoping it brings other businesses into the area because it can look a bit tired, and we need that to lift up all the other shops.
So, it’s an exciting opportunity.”
Shaz said that, as well as the services customers have come to expect from their local pharmacy, she is currently undertaking training through the Chemist Care Now program and hopes to be able to offer those specialised services early next year.
To customers, new and existing, Shaz says:
“Everything’s the same, the same friendly team.
We are trying our best to reduce our pricing but give the same good service you expect.”
For more than 50 years, the Warrandyte Diary has been a trusted source of independent news for the residents of Warrandyte. As a cornerstone of the community, this not-for-profit community newspaper is supported wholly through advertising from local businesses.
Building on this foundation, the Manningham & Nillumbik Bulletin is fast becoming the trusted source for news, editorials, and local businesses for the communities of Warrandyte, North Warrandyte, South Warrandyte, Park Orchards, Research, Wonga Park, Eltham, Donvale, Doncaster, Templestowe, Lower Templestowe, Kangaroo Ground, Hurstbridge, Diamond Creek, Wattle Glen, Warranwood, St Andrews, North Ringwood, East Doncaster, Christmas Hills, Bulleen, Arthurs Creek, Smiths Gully, and Greensborough.
With advertising starting from under $100, your ad and our stories reach our entire audience algorithm-free.
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AN ALLIANCE of Outer Melbourne Councils (OMC) has urged Premier Ben Carroll to immediately saturate the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) corridor with high-frequency buses, reducing the urgency to construct the multi-billion-dollar project straight away.
The fate of the SRL has been a hot topic since Mr Carroll became Premier and removed it as a standalone ministerial responsibility.
When asked directly on ABC Radio whether he intended to slow down delivery of the Suburban Rail Loop to free-up funding for other projects, Premier Carrol said: “I want a more integrated approach to Victoria’s transport system.”
This desire for integration aligns with the Outer Melbourne Councils’ vision for public transport in the outer suburbs.
Outer Melbourne Councils is an advocacy alliance comprising the municipalities forming a ring around metropolitan Melbourne: Cardinia, Casey, Hume, Melton, Mitchell, Nillumbik, Whittlesea, Wyndham and Yarra Ranges.
OMC wants new high-frequency bus services rolled out along the Suburban Rail Loop — including the north, west, and east sections — well ahead of heavy-rail construction.
Mayor of Nillumbik and OMC Chair, Cr Naomi Joiner said the SRL is a long-term project, but the need for better services is immediate and pressing.
“We can bus the loop now, and lay the rail later — if the government of the day still wants to.
Investing in rapid bus services will support new housing and business precincts today, and allow people to immediately reshape their travel habits.”
Frequent, turn-up-and-go services shadowing the SRL route will build public-transport habits and patronage along the future line, years before the first train.
The SRL bus expansion would be part of a wider package of suburban bus upgrades and new routes, as detailed in the OMC election platform Completing Our Communities.
“Most of the infrastructure required for more buses is already there, ready to go,” said Cr Joiner.
As part of its advocacy ahead of the State Election, OMC is asking for $250 million to help deliver a package of bus service upgrades and new routes.
This funding would be utilised for new local bus routes as well as the SRL shadowing.
In Nillumbik, this would include trialling new local access services with connections from St Andrews and Arthurs Creek to Mernda/Hurstbridge stations that align with train timetables.
Cr Joiner said these upgrades improve reliability and provide practical public transport alternatives in areas currently dominated by car travel.
“This is about delivering better public transport for people across outer Melbourne now, and for a fraction of the cost.
What are we waiting for?”
For more than 50 years, the Warrandyte Diary has been a trusted source of independent news for the residents of Warrandyte. As a cornerstone of the community, this not-for-profit community newspaper is supported wholly through advertising from local businesses.
Building on this foundation, the Manningham & Nillumbik Bulletin is fast becoming the trusted source for news, editorials, and local businesses for the communities of Warrandyte, North Warrandyte, South Warrandyte, Park Orchards, Research, Wonga Park, Eltham, Donvale, Doncaster, Templestowe, Lower Templestowe, Kangaroo Ground, Hurstbridge, Diamond Creek, Wattle Glen, Warranwood, St Andrews, North Ringwood, East Doncaster, Christmas Hills, Bulleen, Arthurs Creek, Smiths Gully, and Greensborough.
With advertising starting from under $100, your ad and our stories reach our entire audience algorithm-free.
Supporting independent, trusted, local media like Warrandyte Diary and Manningham & Nillumbik Bulletin allows us to continue to cover key issues with authentic voice and connect our thousands of readers with local businesses.
A YOUNG MAN whose marathon effort has inspired positive change with every step has been named the 2026 Manningham Citizen of the Year.
Ben Duffy, of Park Orchards, received the municipality’s highest accolade at the 2026 Manningham Community Awards, held on Thursday, August 13.
The awards recognise the outstanding achievements of local people and groups who have made a significant contribution to the Manningham community over the past 12 months.
At only 21 years old, Ben completed 52 marathons in 52 weeks, raising vital funds for the Pat Cronin Foundation, which works to end the coward punch through education and awareness.
Demonstrating extraordinary leadership, resilience, and community spirit throughout his journey, Ben also won the Young Achiever Award.
Manningham Mayor Jim Grivas congratulated all the award winners and finalists.
“It’s an honour to celebrate these exceptional people.
As Mayor of Manningham, I’m proud we have such amazing individuals and community groups that help make Manningham a great place to live, work, and visit.
They generously give their time, energy, and expertise to support and strengthen our community.
I would like to thank them for their positive and lasting contribution to Manningham.”
Category winners
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Doreen Stoves Excellence in Volunteering: Sandrajane Vincent-Corry
Leading the Park Orchards Community Pantry, Sandrajane has coordinated large-scale food collections, supporting local families with care packs while reducing food waste.
Active Community: Vicky Lee
Through her work with Slamin Tennis, Vicky has increased participation in sport through inclusive tennis programs, school-to-club pathways, and initiatives that support engagement, wellbeing, and long-term involvement in physical activity.
Ageing Well: Ahmad Sami
Ahmad has made a significant contribution to the wellbeing of older residents through community programs, practical assistance and social connection initiatives that reduce isolation, and support independence and wellbeing.
Artistic Achievement: Heide Museum of Modern Art
Heide’s Creative Age program supports people living with dementia and their carers to engage in inclusive arts experiences that promote creative expression, connection, and wellbeing.
Community Excellence: Lions Opportunity Shop Warrandyte
Volunteers at the opportunity shop support the community through their dedicated service, raising funds for a range of community projects and creating a welcoming space for social connection.
Community Health and Wellbeing: Kevin Heinze Grow
The organisation’s inclusive, nature-based and therapeutic horticulture programs promote physical activity, social connection, and emotional resilience, while providing volunteering opportunities.
Inclusive Community: Onemda Disability Services
Through its Embrace Café partnership with Millward Calvary Aged Care, Onemda has created opportunities for people with disability to build skills, confidence, and connections in a real café environment.
Young Achiever: Ben Duffy
Ben has shown remarkable commitment to helping young people make positive choices and build safer communities through his support of the Pat Cronin Foundation.
His fundraising efforts have helped deliver violence prevention education programs in schools, sporting clubs, and community organisations.
MANNINGHAM Council has voted to endorse the 2026–27 Budget and 10 Year Financial Plan, delivering for the community today while investing in infrastructure and planning ahead.
Manningham Mayor Jim Grivas, said that a careful balance between responsible financial management and continued investment in Manningham’s future was vital at a time of economic uncertainty.
“We know cost of living is front of mind for many households, so we’ve kept rates in line with the state government’s rate cap, frozen our waste charge, and will keep supporting those doing it tough.
We’ve outlined a $164 million operating budget and a $69M capital works program, which means we can keep investing the infrastructure our growing community needs.
We’re planning ahead for housing and population growth, while making sure we continue to maintain the vital services, roads, facilities and open spaces our community relies on every day.
We’ve listened to what our community told us is most important: maintaining and cleaning public spaces, investing in sporting facilities, improving our open spaces, maintaining local roads, and supporting community safety.
This budget directs funding to places where it will make the biggest difference, while keeping costs manageable for ratepayers.”
Strong advocacy against the mandated rollout of a costly and unnecessary glass-only bin, ahead of the state government’s July 2027 implementation deadline will also continue.
“We don’t want to see unnecessary costs passed on to households, particularly when nearly nine in 10 (88 per cent) of Manningham residents surveyed said they do not support having a fourth bin.
We’ll continue to stand with our community on this issue.
At the same time, we are delivering a practical and responsible budget that maintains our debt-free status and helps us carefully plan for and invest in our future, so we can build a better Manningham”
These documents set out how we’ll deliver the priorities in our second year of our Council Plan 2025–2029, while working toward our Community Vision.
We’ve allocated:
NATIONAL TREE Day is only a few weeks away, and councils and community groups have organised planting events across the state.
Manningham and Nillumbik Councils will again be hosting their own planting events.
In Manningham, Council will host a planting event at Mullum Mullum Reserve, with the plan of enhancing the habitat corridor with young, indigenous plants along the edge of the creek and surrounds.
Manningham Mayor Jim Grivas said National Tree Day is a great opportunity to connect with nature and community while supporting the local environment.
“Planting indigenous trees helps restore our natural habitat and create a healthier environment for future generations, while also strengthening community connections.
This is a much-loved event on our community calendar, bringing together school students, community and conservation groups, and people from many faiths and cultures.
It’s for people of all ages and backgrounds, whether you’re planting for the first time or you’ve done it for years.
Everyone is welcome.”
In Nillumbik, the community are invited to help plant around 700 indigenous plants at Lower Eltham Park.
The planting is part of an ongoing revegetation project to strengthen the habitat corridor along the Diamond Creek, focusing on providing butterfly habitat for a number of species, including the Eltham Copper Butterfly that is found adjacent to the park in Hohnes Hill Reserve and also the locally significant Imperial Hairstreak.
Both Tree Day planting events begin at 10am on Sunday, July 26.
More information and any booking requirements can be found on your local council’s website.
Free indigenous plant for Nillumbik residents
Every household in Nillumbik can now register for a free indigenous tube-stock plant from Edendale Community Environment Farm.
Through the Nillumbik Resident Indigenous Plant Program, each residential property is eligible for one free plant that will grow to a shrub of two or more metres (renters should consider their rental agreement prior to planting).
Nillumbik Mayor Naomi Joiner said the exciting initiative is an action from the 2025–2029 Council Plan that contributes to the protection and enhancement of the shire’s tree canopy.
“The program also supports Council’s Urban Tree Canopy Strategy and Biodiversity Strategy.
It will help each and every one of us boost tree coverage throughout the Green Wedge Shire.”
Deputy Mayor Kate McKay led the free seedling initiative and said she was pleased to see it come to fruition.
“There’s plenty of backyard space in Nillumbik that can be planted up, and there are so many benefits to planting more trees.
From increasing the canopy to biodiversity and habitat, cooling, fresh air, and general wellbeing, we all benefit from having healthy and strong trees.”
Edendale Ward Councillor Kelly Joy said the Nillumbik Resident Indigenous Plant Program was ideal for everyone — not just green thumbs.
“When you collect your plant from the Edendale nursery, the friendly staff will be able to help you choose the best variety for your property.
Whether you’re expanding your garden or starting one, this program is for you!”
Residents collecting their plant can also receive a 20 per cent discount on a further 20 tube stock plants if they wish (only available on the day of collection).
Additional planting and maintenance resources are available on the Edendale Community Environment Farm website to help residents care for their new plant and contribute to a greener, more environmentally resilient Nillumbik.
Residents must register their details prior to collection at edendale.vic.gov.au/free-plant.
DEMENTIA Australia’s award-winning podcast Hold the Moment has returned for a third season, continuing to share powerful, real-life stories of people living with dementia and those who care for them.
Across 10 episodes, the new season explores some of the more complex and often unspoken aspects of life after a diagnosis, including managing finances, intimacy, and planning for the future. Hold the Moment co-host Jim Rogers, who lives with young-onset dementia, said season three is essential listening for anyone impacted by dementia.
“There are so many conversations around dementia people don’t like to have or avoid altogether.
Season three is all about saying ‘let’s have these conversations, let’s get into the hard stuff’, whether that be transitioning to aged care, money, intimacy, or even planning for end-of-life care.
I am proud that, alongside my co-host, Dementia Australia Ambassador and journalist Hamish Macdonald, we are shining a light on topics that are often too easily ignored.”
The award-winning podcast has attracted more than 260,000 listens and received recognition in Australia and internationally.
Most recently, it was awarded both a Silver and a Bronze Tower at the prestigious New York Festivals Radio Awards in May 2026.
Alongside the main episodes in season three, Ask us Anything bonus episodes give listeners the opportunity to hear answers to questions on topics ranging from consent and relationships to navigating care and daily routines.
The season features a diverse range of voices, including people living with dementia, carers, researchers, and community leaders.
Among them is Betsy Kuo, whose husband, Peter, was diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimer’s disease at age 63 and for three and a half years, Betsy was by his side as his carer and advocate.
In episode nine Betsy speaks about the importance of palliative care towards the end of Peter’s life.
“When Peter moved into palliative care, everything changed.
The constant noise and uncertainty of the hospital gave way to something I hadn’t expected — stillness.
Palliative care felt like a safe space.
I remember how peaceful it was and how precious it felt that we (me and our two girls) could just be with Peter without distraction.
And that my fear went away, making more room for love.
It was important to me to use the podcast as a way of letting others know about this, especially for a topic often avoided like end-of-life and palliative care.”
Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said Hold the Moment is an important avenue for people to learn about dementia and to not feel as alone.
“Dementia is the leading cause of death in Australia, yet many of the most important conversations about living with dementia can feel the hardest to have.”
This season of Hold the Moment brings those conversations into the open, sharing honest and personal experiences that help people feel better informed, supported, and less isolated. Hold the Moment is produced by Deadset Studios and is available on podcast platforms, the Dementia Australia website, and Dementia Australia’s YouTube channel.
Season three began on June 24.
MANNINGHAM Council has announced the finalists for the 2026 Manningham Community Awards, recognising individuals and organisations for their significant contributions.
Winners will be revealed at the Awards Ceremony on Thursday, August 13 at the Manningham Function Centre.
Manningham Mayor Jim Grivas, congratulated the finalists.
“Our award finalists represent the very best of Manningham.
“They are people and groups who go above and beyond every day to support others and make a lasting difference.
All of our nominees have made a meaningful contribution to Manningham, making the judging process a difficult one.
Thank you to everyone who helped shine a spotlight on their achievements.
I look forward to celebrating all of our finalists and the incredible work they do at our awards ceremony in August.”
Three finalists have been selected for each of the eight award categories.
One of the award category winners will also be named Manningham Citizen of the Year.
The 2026 Manningham Community Award finalists are:
Doreen Stoves Excellence in Volunteering: Recognising an individual who has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to volunteerism.
Samantha Wu
Sandrajane Vincent-Corry
Sandi Miller
Active Community: Recognising an individual or group who has contributed to community participation in active lifestyles, sports or physical activity.
Harry Harisiou
Vicky Lee
Warrandyte Mountain Bike Club
Ageing Well: Recognising an individual or group who has contributed to enhancing the lives of older residents, fostering social connection, safety, or active ageing.
Ahmed Sami
Manningham Uniting Church and Community Centre
Ya Chen
Artistic Achievement: Recognising an individual or group who has contributed to Manningham’s creative community, sparking artistic, cultural or creative expression.
Heide Museum of Modern Art
Wendy Samantha Productions
Zakir Fakhri
Community Excellence: Recognising a community organisation or group that has delivered outstanding programs or initiatives contributing to the wellbeing, development and cohesion of the Manningham community.
Jackson Court Traders Association
Lions Opportunity Shop Warrandyte
Empower YOUth and Melly Cullingford
Community Health and Wellbeing: Recognising an individual or group who has enhanced health, wellbeing, or resilience in the community, whether through advocacy, program development, or direct service delivery.
Access Health and Community
Cuddly Bear Templestowe Early Learning Centre
Kevin Heinze Grow
Inclusive Community: Recognising an individual or group who has actively contributed to community accessibility, inclusivity or diversity.
Bulleen Templestowe Basketball Club
Little Birds Allied Health
Onemda Disability Services
Young Achiever: Recognising a young person aged under 25, who has made a positive impact within the Manningham community through demonstrated leadership, innovation, or commitment to helping others.
Ben Duffy
Kate Dickensen
Taylor Greco
Tickets for the 2026 Manningham Community Awards ceremony on Thursday, August 13 are now on sale, with subsidised pricing available for Manningham residents.
Details about the award finalists and ticket booking information are available at manningham.vic.gov.au/community-awards.
THE FIFA WORLD Cup has created a buzz across the nation.
It is the kind of atmosphere that only gets created once every four years.
The community rallies to support the Socceroos.
The now iconic scenes of the watch along at Federation Square in the Melbourne CBD gets shown around the world.
What is rarely seen however, is the energy and support from the local Soccer clubs.
Doncaster Rovers Soccer Club hosted a club-wide watch party of Australia vs Turkey on Sunday, June 14.
The club rooms were filled with men and women, along with a strong turn out of junior players, all watching the Socceroos.
It was a true day for the family.
Adults and children filled out the room, all eagerly watching the game.
The venue was decorated with green and gold balloons and tables had Australian themed flags.
Club members did the same, bringing their own Australian flags or cloths.
Everywhere you looked, there was green and gold.
The kids made sure they had a front row seat, as all day they were the loudest and most passionate members of the audience.
The Aussies won the game 2–0, and it was pure elation as Nestory Irankunda ran through the Turkish defence and fired a shot into the bottom corner.
An atmosphere and celebrations all club members will never forget.
Club president, Jim Aspropotamitis, talked about grassroots sport and the importance of club connection and culture, saying:
“it requires a conscious effort in an attempt to get back to where the club was”.
He said they are already well along the road back, with the Junior program having grown from around 80 to nearly 400 participants.
The club’s Miniroos Coordinator, Bree Fredericks, said the aim for youth soccer is the “learning and discovery” to help build connection to the sport and the club community.
As illustrated in Football Australia’s 2025 National Participation Report, soccer is now one of the highest participation sports in Australia for junior involvement.
The Women’s program was also highlighted by the club, as Aspropotamitis said the club “went from four years ago, there was no women’s team, now we have about 80 or 90 women and girls playing”.
The popularity of the Matildas, the Australian women’s team, has been a factor for growth in the women’s game.
Australia hosted the Women’s World Cup in 2023, and the whole nation showed their support for the Matildas.|
Participation in soccer from girls has seen an increase by 16 per cent, while overall participation also rose by 10 per cent.
Historically in Australia the sport has struggled, with the national Men’s team only getting out of the World Cup Group stage twice going into the 2026 World Cup.|
However, the round ball game is finally appearing to be more stable and structured at a grassroots level.
The recent success of the Socceroos and Matildas on the world stage is inspiring the next generation of players as grassroots club’s gain momentum.
Rovers Senior Women continue to dominate BY JAMES POYNER
THE SENIOR sides at Doncaster continue to perform well.
Going into Round 8 on June 19, the Senior Women were 7-0 in State League 5 South East and at the top of their Ladder.
Scoring 27 goals to date and only conceding seven, under the leadership of coach Elise Kyrigos, the Women continue to make a statement, which fans hope they can maintain as we approach the halfway mark of the 2026 season.
After 10 rounds in State League 3 South East, the Senior Men are currently third on the ladder, winning seven of their games to date.
The Reserves are not faring as well as the Senior Men and Women, currently sitting eighth on the ladder, at five wins, five losses, and a draw.
Sign up for the Nick Ansell Holiday Program
Professional footballer and current Seniors player, Nick Ansell, is running a soccer clinic during the July School Holidays.
For children aged seven to 15, the program runs for four days over the school holidays.
Players will be split up into age groups and put into groups where they will be with players of similar ability to make sure every player is being tested.
Players will rotate through a variety of training drills, including shooting, dribbling, passing, and defending, before finishing with a game — all in a fun, positive, and enjoyable environment.
There will also be plenty of breaks throughout the day for the kids to have a snack and some lunch.
Whether your child is new to football or has plenty of experience, our program is designed to cater for all levels.
Visit nickansellfootballacademy.com for more information or to register your child.
THE TEMPLESTOWE Route Upgrade has reached a major milestone, with works on Anderson Street now complete.
The Templestowe Route is a series of link roads between Fitzsimons Lane and Templestowe Road, running along Parker Street, Swilk Street, James Street and Anderson Street, which connects local residents to Templestowe Village, and allows access for travel to and from surrounding suburbs.
The works aim to improve safety for all users, including motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
The upgraded section provides safer and more accessible connections for pedestrians and cyclists, forming a vital link between key destinations as construction continues across the route.
Manningham Mayor Jim Grivas said the project is delivering tangible benefits for the community while prioritising the environment.
“We’re seeing strong progress along the Templestowe Route, with completed sections already benefiting the community.
“At Ruffey Creek, we’ve renewed the footbridge to improve visibility, safety and accessibility, while also installing a new porous footpath that allows rainwater to naturally filter into surrounding tree roots.
“This has fantastic environmental outcomes that support tree health while reducing water runoff.
“These upgrades are not only improving connections across Manningham, but also demonstrating how infrastructure can be delivered in a way that respects and enhances our natural environment.
“Construction will continue along the remaining sections of the route, completing the missing links and delivering a safer, more connected and sustainable transport network for residents and visitors,”
NEW COMMUNITY batteries have been installed at Council and Community Facilities across Manningham and Nillumbik.
Both municipalities have been able to do this as part of the State Government’s 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program.
In Manningham, the new batteries have been installed at Mullum Mullum Stadium, MC Square, and the Manningham Council Depot.
In Nillumbik, the battery, along with a new solar panel system, has been installed at the Hurstbridge Football and Cricket Pavilion.
The 38.3kW solar system and 240kWh battery can provide up to 48 hours of back-up power, which, along with access to showers, refrigeration, and device charging, allows the Pavilion to become an energy resilience hub during major power outages or emergency events.
Nillumbik Mayor Naomi Joiner said the project would deliver long-term benefits for both the club and the broader community.
“This is a huge win for the Hurstbridge Football Netball Club and Hurstbridge Cricket Club and the wider Hurstbridge and surrounds community.
“It gives people a place to come when there’s a major power outage, and at the same time sets the pavilion up for the future.
“Cheaper, more reliable power means lower running costs for the clubs — putting more money back into sport and not into electricity bills.”
In Manningham, the new batteries are being used to stabilise the local electricity network.
Manningham Mayor Jim Grivas said as more households and businesses switch to solar, storing excess energy becomes just as important as generating it.
“These community batteries capture surplus solar power produced on site and release it when demand is higher,”
“This helps stabilise the local electricity network and makes better use of renewable energy already being produced in Manningham.
“The result is a more resilient energy system, one that supports both Council operations and the broader community as we transition to cleaner energy.”
NILLUMBIK, Whitehorse, and Manningham Councils are amongst the 35 councils that have upped the ante in their campaign to halt the costly rollout of the residential, purple-lidded glass bin following an enthusiastic response via a community survey.
There were nearly 25,000 responses to the “Let’s be Clear on Glass” community survey, with 83 per cent of respondents against its introduction.
The survey also found that 91 per cent support expanding the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) to include glass wine and spirit bottles.
Results at a local level were on trend.
In Manningham, more than 1,700 residents had their say, with 88 per cent against the glass-only bin, and 91 per cent supporting an expanded CDS.
In Nillumbik, out of the 603 responses, 82.6 per cent were against adding the glass-only bin, and 94 per cent wanted the CDS to start taking glass wine and spirit bottles.
In neighbouring Whitehorse, 1,000 residents participated, with 91 per cent against the bin, and 92 per cent wanting the CDS expanded.
Independent modelling suggests the purple-lidded bin rollout will cost Councils $4 million to introduce, with an additional $27 per household per year for ratepayers.
Presently, Councils have until July 1, 2027, to introduce the additional bin.
AS PART OF its Community Outreach program, RSPCA Victoria offers low-cost pet vaccination and health clinics in the community.
For only $69, you can get your dog or cat vaccinated at a community clinic, have them checked by one of RSPCA’s experienced veterinarians, and receive professional advice on how to keep them healthy now and into the future.
Following successful clinics in April and May, RSPCA Victoria will be back at Warrandyte Scout Hall in June and July for another round.
The low-fee model is designed to remove barriers for pet owners to access routine vet care, especially at a time when cost-of-living pressures are high.
RSPCA Victoria says keeping animals healthy in their homes is one of the best ways to support animal welfare overall — and every visit also helps the organisation continue its work with vulnerable animals across Victoria.
The central location of the Scout Hall made it an ideal spot for the team to base themselves in Warrandyte.
The Scouts provided the hall free of charge to RSPCA Victoria as part of its commitment to community service in Warrandyte.
On June 16, the RSPCA will run a cat clinic at the Hall, offering health checks and advice, and F3 vaccinations.
On July 14, they will run a dog clinic, offering health checks and advice, and C5 vaccinations.
To access this important program, you must book an appointment online atrspcavic.org/petclinics.
MANNINGHAM Council says it will continue to work with Warrandyte Scouts on options to keep them in their hall, following strong feedback on the draft Warrandyte Community Facilities Review.
Valuable community input has directly shaped this outcome and other focus areas outlined in the Consultation Outcomes Report, presented at the Council meeting on Tuesday, May 26.
Yarra Ward Councillor Carli Lange spoke to the motion to note the report at the Council meeting, acknowledging that the feedback received was “critical” of the review.
“It was also thoughtful, detailed, and deeply invested in the future of Warrandyte facilities.
“The level of engagement was high, and it showed how much our residents really value the community infrastructure that they pay for.”
Manningham Mayor Jim Grivas said Council would now continue to partner with the community on agreed focus areas rather than proceeding with the report as a single overarching plan.
“We received 38 detailed submissions during the consultation process, as well as a petition of 1,611 signatures regarding the Warrandyte Scout Hall.”
Community groups that made submissions include:
Warrandyte Scouts
Warrandyte Men’s Shed
Warrandyte Neighbourhood House Board
Warrandyte Historical Society
The Rotary Club of Warrandyte
The Rotary Club of Warrandyte, on behalf of 14 community organisations
Warrandyte Community Association
Warrandyte Tennis Club
Warrandyte Childcare and Preschool Cooperative
Now and Not Yet Café
Warrandyte Basketball Association
Warrandyte Toy Library
Warrandyte Seniors
Warrandyte Sporting Group
Warrandyte Tennis Club
No Lights No Lycra
Warrandyte Mechanics’ Institute and Arts Association
The report noted several common themes that emerged from the feedback.
Historical Museum: Support for the Museum to remain in its current location (12 respondents) due to the profile and significance of the existing building, and for Council to work with the Warrandyte Historical Society to enhance the existing facility.
In response to the feedback, Council acknowledged the “deep connection” to the old post office.
It says it will work with the Historical Society to retain the existing building and explore opportunities to progressively upgrade the building to meet the needs of the Historical Society within the constraints of the site and budget availability.
Warrandyte Museum/Old Post Office
Early Years Infrastructure: There was mixed feedback about relocating Warrandyte Kindergarten to a local school site (six respondents opposed and three supportive) and general support for relocating the childcare service to a new site, due to the limitations associated with the existing facility and site (five respondents in support).
Council acknowledged the constraints of the current facilities and the need to provide further clarity on existing and proposed facilities, stating in the report:
“We will continue discussions with early years services, local schools, and the State Government, to further explore all available options.
Engagement with families and the broader community will also be undertaken prior to any major works being undertaken.”
Warrandyte Kindergarten
Scouts Hall: Support for the Warrandyte Scout Group remaining in their current location (seven of nine respondents), and questions raised about upgrading the existing Scout Hall.
Council said it is supportive of the Warrandyte Scouts’ preference to remain in their current Hall and will work with stakeholders to re-examine opportunities to upgrade the existing facility within planning constraints and investigate options to address long-term needs.
Men’s Shed: Support for a dedicated Men’s Shed space in Warrandyte due to the significant benefits they provide to the community (eight respondents).
Council responded to say it will continue to work collaboratively with the Warrandyte Men’s Shed to investigate suitable facility options.
Pending further discussions, Council proposed to explore the feasibility of expanding the Warrandyte Community Hall and re-examining other previously discounted Council-owned sites.
Sporting Facilities: General support for continued growth and enhancement of sport and recreation activities, without overdeveloping sites or co-locating non-compatible groups.
More information sought on proposed improvements and capital projects.
Council noted that challenges exist in relation to planning controls, specifically relating to flood inundation around the tennis facility.
This constrains the ability to expand the tennis pavilion; however, Council says it is committed to re-examining potential improvements to the facility and advocating for viable solutions in collaboration with the club.
Colman Park: More direction and detail sought on the future of specific facilities and services at Colman Park, including proposed capital improvements.
Council said any proposed facility upgrades or works at the Reserve will involve further consultation with relevant stakeholders and users.
Colman Pavilion
Community Centre: Respondents value the centre’s flexibility, functionality, and identity, whilst noting the potential for some improvements, including access and wayfinding.
The suggested “improvement” to the physical connection between the Community Centre and Warrandyte Mechanics’ Institute & Arts Association is seen as unnecessary and unjustified.
Consultation process: Community concerns raised about the consultation process included a lack of detail in the draft report, a lack of consideration of previous consultation findings, and that information provided by community representatives and some groups was excluded or not referenced, particularly noted was the lack of consideration for older residents.
Respondents also noted that the community consultation process failed to meaningfully consider input from Warrandyte organisations and their valuable role within the community.
Outcomes failed to reflect the complexity and significance of service and facility needs, and disregarded previous plans and other genuine opportunities.
Draft report and Review process: Respondents felt that the report and review process lacked transparency, and some felt that plans for Warrandyte community facilities had already been decided.
Council said the draft Review report was intended as a high-level report summarising the key outcomes of the Review and proposed opportunities for further exploration and consultation.
Warrandyte’s unique character: Warrandyte’s historical significance and unique character were not adequately reflected in the draft report, nor were the community and tourism benefits generated by existing community facilities and their surrounds.
Council said it “acknowledged and appreciated” the significant level of feedback received in relation to Warrandyte’s history, including reference to the Warrandyte Township Heritage Guidelines, which will be considered in any future facility planning and specific upgrade proposals.
Broader planning context: Issues regarding traffic and parking were mentioned several times, particularly congestion issues during major events.
Flood risk and inundation levels were also questioned.
Council said it is required to comply with planning overlays and requirements imposed by regulatory authorities, but it will continue to engage and advocate where possible.
Feedback appreciated
“We appreciate this feedback, which has been summarised in the Outcomes Report, and which will guide our ongoing work to improve Warrandyte’s community facilities,” said Cr Grivas.
When addressing the Council meeting, Cr Lange said she was very pleased to say Council is now moving towards a more targeted, practical action.
“For the Scouts, it means holding meetings with their project group within Scouts Victoria, focusing on exploring their future ambitions for refurbishment or expansion, and looking at their practical needs of storage, as well as an essential need for amenities and access.
“Working with the Men’s Shed group, who are looking at moving forward in a feasibility study to see how our Warrandyte Reserve community facilities can be activated for them, looking at access to parking and traffic, and engaging with the community, ready for state government advocacy.
“It is also working with the Historical Society on a collaborative approach to look at their existing facility and how to maintain that for longevity and community safety.
“And then it’s our early years services that operate out of our community facilities and working with the department of education and local providers — we acknowledge there is uncertainty in this area, particularly with childcare services that operate out of local government facilities — we are committed to working with these providers so we can have facilities that are used for all our residents now and in the future and for our needs.
“I am really pleased to say that this demonstrates a clear shift from moving away from assumptions and having actual collaborations,”
Improvements to other local facilities, such as sporting facilities at Warrandyte Reserve and Colman Park, will be undertaken progressively in consultation with user groups and the community, guided by Council plans, policies, and the Capital Works Program.
Cr Grivas said Council appreciates the feedback and positive discussions it has had with community groups, facility users, and key stakeholders that has helped Council determine the next steps.
“This process has helped us to better understand what matters most to the Warrandyte community.
“We’re committed to working together to progressively improve facilities to meet local needs.”
REPRESENTATIVES from the Warrandyte Volunteer Alliance (WAVA) met with Manningham Council on May 13 to discuss feedback from the community and next steps in relation to the Warrandyte Community Facilities Review.
WAVA has told the Diary that issues discussed included the future of the Warrandyte Scout Hall, Warrandyte Historical Society Museum, and the site of a permanent Men’s Shed.
They also discussed Early Years Services, where the long-term goal is to locate childcare services on State School sites.
This would require support from the State Government.
WAVA and Council also discussed the Taroona Avenue Cricket Nets project, which is funded by the State Government — following a 2022 election promise — but managed by Manningham.
The project has stalled due to push back from Yarra Valley Water, a major stakeholder, who will not approve the works due to a main sewerage drain running under the cricket nets.
The project, in its current form, can only go ahead if the drain is relocated, and Council is currently investigating whether the scope can be modified to enable the project to move forward.
WAVA expressed its hope for continued engagement with Council, grounded in a mutual understanding of the actions needed to ensure Warrandyte’s community facilities are fit for purpose.
It was agreed that ongoing meetings would be held quarterly.
Scout Hall maintenance responsibility queried
THERE HAS been ongoing discussion around the responsibility for the ongoing maintenance of the Warrandyte Scout Hall.
The Scouts have long asserted that there was a maintenance agreement with Council to undertake ongoing maintenance in exchange for Scouts Victoria handing over several scout halls in a reconciliation of Scout facilities in 2005.
Council, however take a different view, as noted in the recently published Community Facilities Review Consultation Outcomes Report, which states:
“The Scout Hall is owned by Scouts Victoria who are responsible for building maintenance and improvements under current tenure arrangements.”
An old article recently discovered in the Warrandyte Diary archives now support the view put forward by Warrandyte Scouts.
This article has been printed below:
Scouts’ buildings due for council assistance (August 2005, Page 10)
Scout troops across Manningham will enjoy improved facilities following negotiations between council and the Scouts working party, addressing maintenance and management responsibilities.
“Extensive consultation over the last few years has resulted in the Scouts agreeing in principle to the implementation of lease and service agreements that outline guidelines for amenity use,” a council spokesperson told the Diary.
“The service and lease agreements mean we now have clear guidelines to ensure that facilities are well kept, safe and pleasurable to use,” the spokesperson said.
“The Scouts are integral to the makeup of our community, and it is important that we continue to work together to continually improve services.”
The negotiations covered the financial viability of maintaining halls; maximising use of Scout halls; justification for renovation and repair of halls; possible closure, change of use or demolition or removal of some halls; establishment of new lease arrangements, and development of service agreements.
Negotiations also dealt with the development of a “work program” for the maintenance of Scout Hall buildings and surrounds, and the ongoing maintenance of all facilities on council land.
The Diary reached out to Manningham Council for comment, who says the lease agreement for the Warrandyte Scout Hall, which has been in place since 2005, has not changed.
“Under the long-standing agreement, Scouts Victoria are responsible for building maintenance and repairs, while we maintain the external areas.
We are committed to supporting Manningham’s community groups so they can thrive and have assisted with a number of maintenance issues at the hall over the years.
Following recent conversations with Scouts Victoria and the Warrandyte Scouts, we’re addressing short-term maintenance priorities, and are establishing a working group to re-examine the site and explore the potential to upgrade the hall, within the planning constraints of the site.”
THE LAUNCH of the State Government’s car registration rebate initiative made headlines on the first day of winter, with reports that the Services Victoria App had crashed due to high demand.
The Government is offering up to 20 per cent off car registrations, a rebate of $186 for a driver with one car, or $372 for a family with two cars.
Drivers have until July 31, 2026, to apply.
Following reports of the Services Victoria App crash, State Premier Jacinta Allan released this statement:
“I know lots of Victorians have been online this morning trying to claim 20 per cent off their car rego.
The response has been huge — bigger than we expected.
So far, we’ve had more than 42,000 applications lodged, and up to 650 are being processed every minute.
That demand has caused some technical difficulties — but the website is now back up and running.”
As of Wednesday, June 3, over one million Victorians applied for their rebate.
Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Ros Spence, applauded the initiative.
“This is real help that is putting money back in the pockets of Victorians.”
A week later, on June 10, that number had surpassed two million.
Looking at Historical data from the Federal Department of Infrastructure and Transport estimates there are around 4.5 million eligable vehiciles in Victoria.
Victoria’s Minster for Government Services, Ingrid Stitt, said she was thrilled at the scheme hitting the two million milestone.
“I’m thrilled that more than two million Victorians have already claimed 20 per cent off thier rego.
If you haven’t yet – it takes minutes.”
To be eligible for the rebate, Victorians need to have paid their registration between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026, for a light vehicle for personal use.
HALF PRICE fares, more trains, and more transport advocacy.
The free travel on Victorian public transport ended on May 31.
As reported in The Age, the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) estimated that in April 2026 passenger numbers were estimated to be around 49 million, in line with pre-pandemic levels.
By comparison, DTP data collected from April 2025 recorded 41,434,098 trips across all forms of public transport across the state.
While the State Government initially extended the free public transport initiative from one month to two, as of June 1, customers will need to once again purchase a ticket, but all fares are half price until the end of the year.
During this time, the maximum cost of Full Fare daily travel will go from $11.40 to $5.70, while concession fares will drop from $5.70 to $2.85, meaning you could travel from Bairnsdale in Victoria’s east to Ararat in Victoria’s west, as an adult, for only $5.70, and at an estimated duration of around seven hours (plus a 90 minute wait at Southern Cross) it’s not much slower than driving.
Locally, the Belgrave/Lilydale and Hurstbridge/Mernda lines are running additional services.
On weekday evenings, trains will run every 10 minutes to Ringwood, up from every 15 minutes and every 20 minutes to Belgrave/Lilydale – up from 30 minutes.
The increased service has been celebrated by advocacy groups such as More Trains Melbourne East, although they say more work is needed on weekend evenings, Sunday mornings, and midday weekday services (east of Ringwood).
On the Hurstbridge line, weekend services have been improved with trains running to Eltham every 20 minutes all weekend, and every 15 minutes to Hurstbridge.
From Sunday, June 14, catching the train on the Hurstbridge or Ringwood lines is a little easier as the State Government rolls out “tap and go” on these services, allowing commuters to tap on with their credit/debit card.
Tap and Go on trams and buses is scheduled to be introduced later this year.
Eastern advocacy
Manningham Council has joined with neighbouring Councils Knox, Monash, Yarra Ranges, and Greater Dandenong to form the Eastern Transport Coalition.
They are advocating for improvements to the public bus network, shared paths, and pedestrian crossings.
Projects include a high-frequency busway between Doncaster Park and Ride and Mitcham Station, a high-frequency bus route along the proposed Suburban Rail loop North route, and $1.85 million to fund the Main Yarra Trail extension between Pound Road and Taroona Avenue.
The Manningham Council Better Bus Service Survey, which closed on June 7, was part of this advocacy action.
One of the main hurdles for better bus use in the Yarra Ward villages (Warrandyte, Wonga Park, Park Orchards) is a lack of connection through public transport.
As part of the bus survey, Council posted a number of FAQs on their Your Say page, with one specifically addressing the issues of upgrades to bus services in places like Wonga Park and Park Orchards.
Their response states:
“While the busway focuses on the busy Doncaster Road corridor, our overall advocacy aims to improve the entire bus network.
By making the main routes more frequent and reliable, we can strengthen the feeder services.
This means improved local bus services that bring residents from outer suburbs, such as Park Orchards or Wonga Park, to these major hubs.”
OLYMPIC Middle-distance runner Abbey Caldwell has had a huge career breakthrough, taking out her first Diamond League title on May 23 in the 1500m in Xiamen, China.
Caldwell ran a tactically perfect race, winning with a time of 3:57.26 in very humid conditions.
The Warrandyte local finished ahead of fellow Australians Jessica Hull, 5th, Linden Hall, 8th, Sarah Billings, 11th, and Claudia Hollingsworth,13th.
Caldwell was delighted after the race, capping off a huge couple of weeks following her bronze medal performance in the 1500m at the Shanghai Diamond League meet, saying.
“I’m really happy with that.
It was really hot out there; it was a lot harder than last week I think with that extra bit of humidity.
It was tough, and I just wanted to go out and execute a good race.
“The time would have been a PB last week, so I can’t complain at all,”
At the Shanghai meet a week earlier, the Commonwealth bronze medallist produced the run of her life to turn the tables on Olympic silver medallist Hull and Australian champion Hollingsworth in the Women’s 1500m, carving three seconds off her personal best in 3:56.12.
Calwell said the win came as a bit of a surprise.
“I honestly didn’t think, even mid-race, it would be that good.
But to get a PB, I’m absolutely stoked!
I knew I was very fit and I wanted to show that on the track.
We have the luxury of coming off our domestic season in Australia and I knew I was race ready.
“I just needed to put my training into a race, and I executed that, so I’m very happy,”
Caldwell is now heading to Scotland for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, in Glasgow.
Watch all the action on the Seven network from July 23.
Harding sisters dominate national championships
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There must be something in the Warrandyte water, as Warrandyte’s own Harding sisters — Shakira, Jamison and Harper — delivered a powerhouse performance at the recent Australian Open and Underage Track and Field Championships held in Sydney and Brisbane.
Sixteen-year-old Jamison Harding shone across multiple events.
Competing against Australia’s best in the open women’s pole vault, she claimed an impressive third place behind Olympic champion Nina Kennedy, clearing 4.22m — just 5cm shy of her personal best set the week prior in Melbourne.
She then secured silver in the U20 pole vault, gold in the U18 pole vault, and capped off her campaign by winning the U20 100m hurdles.
With the U20 events doubling as selection trials for the World U20 Championships in Eugene, Oregon, USA, Jamison earned selection in both pole vault and 100m hurdles — a rare and remarkable dual event achievement considering the technical differences of both events.
Older sister Shakira Harding also booked her ticket to Eugene after a breakout season in the 400m hurdles.
Chasing qualification for the World U20 team, she produced a stunning personal best of 58.54 seconds at the national championships, her 5th personal best of the season and more than three seconds quicker than her best of last season, 61.69.
Her performance secured a narrow second place and confirmed her spot on the Australian team.
Not to be overshadowed, 13-year-old Harper Harding stamped herself as the fastest 13/14-year-old in the country.
Competing in the U15 age group, she dominated the sprints and hurdles, winning the blue ribbon 100m, as well as 90m hurdles, 200m hurdles, and contributing to Victoria’s victory in the 4×100m relay.
DONCASTER ROVERS Soccer Club recently held an event to celebrate the return of Women’s Football at Doncaster, and the energy in the room would suggest it is here to stay.
May 8-17 was Female Football Week, and clubs across the country held celebration events and activities.
For the Rovers, it was a chance to formally introduce the 2026 Senior Women’s team to club sponsors and supporters, and present the team with their 2026 jerseys.
It’s been just over a decade since Doncaster had a Senior Women’s team, but valiant efforts by the Rovers’ passionate volunteers to develop a dedicated Junior Girl’s program, as well as efforts to reestablish the Senior Women’s team, resulted in their return to competition, playing in State League 4 in 2025.
Speaking to Football Victoria in 2025, Andrea Jamieson, Junior and Women’s Co-ordinator, spoke about the club’s return to having a Girls and Senior Women’s program.
“Through our inclusive environment for Women and Girls, by season’s end, we had a squad of 23 players.
We persevered through challenges and concerns around recruitment.
Word spread that Doncaster Rovers were building something special.”
Back in 2023, the club had just seven female players across MiniRoos and Juniors.
By 2025, Doncaster Rovers had grown to U8s, U11s, U15s, Senior Women, and Masters Women’s teams.
“This isn’t just a team — it’s a whole-of-club culture shift.
It’s about visibility, opportunity, and creating a welcoming space for women and girls at every level of the game.”
said Ms Jamieson.
Two of the people the club highlights as part of this shift are Craig and Ana van Nieuwkerk, the couple founded customer bookings and business management software company You’reOnTime, which is also a club sponsor.
They also have a daughter, Aimee, who has come up through the Junior ranks to be part of the Senior Women’s team since it reformed in 2025.
They spoke to the M&N Bulletin about what compelled them to rejuvenate the Girls and Women’s program.
They said that in 2023, Aimee was paying with a different club, and they were looking to move her.
Their son Zeke was already playing at Doncaster, so they moved Aimee over and jumped at the chance to fire up the Girls and Women’s program.
“[Zeke] had been playing here for a year, so it was a natural club for her to come to,”
said Mr van Nieuwkerk
He said they produced flyers and other marketing materials to raise awareness of the club’s program; they also paid registration fees to make the program more accessible; and Ana van Nieuwkerk took on the role of Team Manager.
The momentum made space for the club’s first Senior Women’s team in a decade.
Although the 2025 season may not have gone well for the Senior Women’s team, the 2026 side is showing signs they are here to stay.
With experienced player and coach Elise Kyrigos — who started playing soccer as a Junior at the Rovers — and an influx of new senior women to complement the growing team, the Senior Women are making a statement, currently 5-0 and at the top of the ladder, winning every game they have played in 2026, to date.
Kyrigos spoke with the M&N Bulletin on the night about the season so far.
“We’ve gathered a really core group of girls that just want to play for the vibe, play for each other.
That’s kind of our motto this year, play for each other.
We’re kind of on a roll at the moment, and we’re feeling pretty confident in what we’re doing.”
The sides’ Co-Captains, Bree Rametta and Isabella Damiano, both played soccer as children.
Rametta played at Doncaster from aged nine until Year 12, and has now come back to the club as an adult.
She said initially she was unsure about returning to the game, “but now I’m in it every week, and it’s amazing”.
Damiano praised the club on its work in promoting and supporting the resurgence of Girls and Women’s football at Doncaster.
“It’s a credit to the club; they’ve done so much work to boost women in football, and it’s been nice to be valued, seen, and celebrated.”
The Senior Women’s next home fixture is on Sunday, June 14, at 3pm — be sure to go along to Anderson Park in Doncaster East and witness their dominance in State League 5 South-East this season.
NATIONAL volunteer week is a chance to thank and honour those who give selflessly to our community.
One such occasion was the Menzies Community Volunteer Awards, which was held at Doncaster Secondary College on May 20, and hosted by Member for Menzies, Gabriel Ng.
Mr Ng said the awards recognise the outstanding contributions of individuals who give their time and care to support others and strengthen our community.
“This year’s nominees represent a diverse range of organisations, environmental programs, and local support services,”
Mr Ng, along with the State Member for Box Hill, Paul Hamer, presented 19 awards to a diverse array of committed volunteers.
Gregory Bonyhady: Greg has demonstrated a strong commitment to advocacy and community service, using his voice to support greater accessibility and inclusion for people living with a disability.
Wen Cheng: Wen has made a significant contribution to the Chinese Senior Citizens Club of Manningham Inc since 2023 through outstanding volunteer leadership and dedication to community service.
Sumeet Chhabra: Sumeet has made a significant contribution to the community through his role as Community Liaison Officer at the SGNSS Gurdwara Blackburn.
Zoe Chung: Zoe has made a meaningful contribution by creating peer support opportunities for mothers of medically complex or disabled children, reducing isolation and fostering a more inclusive and supportive community for families facing complex challenges.
Melissa Collard: Melissa has made a valuable contribution to the Whitehorse Colts Netball Club through her commitment to coaching and mentoring young players.
Ada Fong: Ada has made a significant contribution to the Chinese Senior Citizens Club of Manningham Inc through her dedicated and reliable service as Treasurer.
Morry Freedman: Morry has made a longstanding and valued contribution to the North Eastern Jewish Centre through generous and dependable voluntary service.
Rosanne Gay: Rosanne has made a valued contribution to the Warrandyte Riverside Market through her dedicated volunteer service managing monthly car parking operations.
Sue Harbottle: Sue has made an exceptional long-term contribution to the Doncaster Dolphins Masters Swimming Club through decades of dedicated volunteer service.
Kathryn Lagarrigue: Kathryn has made an outstanding contribution to the Donvale Tennis Club through strong leadership and an exceptional commitment to its junior and community events.
David Lewis: David is a local resident who has made a meaningful contribution through sustained volunteer work, both locally and more broadly, supporting initiatives focused on community wellbeing, environmental sustainability, and recovery efforts, including work with Global Gardens of Peace and Sustain Australia.
Emi Luppino: Emi has made an extraordinary voluntary contribution across multiple organisations, including Box Hill RSL, Greenlink Box Hill, Doncaster Community Gardens, Box Hill Baptist Church Bread Rescue, and Clota Cottage Neighbourhood House.
Tammy Nguyen: Tammy has made a significant contribution through sustained volunteer leadership across a number of community organisations, including the Vietnamese Museum Australia, Manningham United Football Club, and the Vietnamese Australian Professional Network.
George Petrou: George has made a significant contribution to the community through his volunteer work as an artist, using his work to recognise and honour the service of Australian veterans, creating and donating portraits of retired servicemen and women, with a particular focus on highlighting the often-overlooked contributions of women.
Gurmeet Sethi: Gurmeet has made a significant contribution to the community in his role as Vice President of the SGNSS Gurdwara Blackburn, including the delivery of free meals each week to people experiencing hardship across Victoria.
Richard Shi: Richard has served in a leadership role with the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse for a number of years, helping strengthen community connection, social cohesion, and local businesses.
Rose Tavenor: Rose has given nearly two decades of dedicated service to MannaCare, supporting older people in the community with generosity, reliability, and compassion.
Sandrajane Vincent-Corry: Sandrajane has made a meaningful contribution through the Park Orchards Community Pantry, supporting people experiencing hardship in the local community.
Bihong Wang: Bihong has made an outstanding voluntary contribution through the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse, providing strong leadership and building connections across the local community.
Volunteers are the backbone of the community and play a vital role in supporting others and strengthening social cohesion.
There are many ways you too can get involved, both large and small.
Reach out to a local volunteer organisation to see how you can make a difference.
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Nominate a community champion
If you know someone deserving of recognition for their community service, nominate them for a Manningham Community Award.
Nominations are open until Wednesday, June 3, at 5pm, so don’t miss out on nominating yourself or someone who’s making a positive impact.
Manningham Council is celebrating achievements from the last 12 months, so think about the amazing things you or others have contributed recently.
Don’t miss this opportunity to recognise amazing individuals and groups in our community.
For more information or to nominate, visit: manningham.vic.gov.au/community-awards.
