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Great Victorian Rail Trail remains closed

The North Central Review
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Great Victorian Rail Trail remains closed

HEED the signs and keep off – this is Murrindindi Shire Council’s call to the community about closed sections of the Great Victorian Rail Trail.

It said while some closed sections of the Great Victorian Rail Trail may appear safe, significant risks remain. It has urged residents and visitors to respect closure signage and safety barriers.

Ongoing inspections following the January 2026 bushfires have revealed extensive damage across multiple sections of the trail. Some bridges and culverts that appear intact from above have severely weakened or missing supports underneath, with several at risk of collapse. Fire‑damaged trees also remain along the trail and may fall without warning until arborists can safely complete necessary works.

Given the scale of the fire and the number of impacted assets, council is continuing detailed asset and environmental inspections to determine the full extent of the damage. To date, 27 bridges and major culverts along the trail have been inspected, with three bridges identified for full replacement and at least seven sustaining significant damage. These figures may increase as assessments continue.

Mayor Damien Gallagher thanked the community for its patience and understanding.

“The Great Victorian Rail Trail is a much‑loved attraction for our region, and we know how important it is for both locals and visitors,” Cr Gallagher said.

“While safety must come first as we work through these assessments, Murrindindi is very much open. Our towns, villages and natural landscapes are ready to welcome visitors, we simply ask that everyone respects the trail closures until it is safe to reopen.”

The Great Victorian Rail Trail is a key tourism asset in Victoria’s High Country, attracting about 150,000 users each year and contributing an estimated $17.5 million to the regional economy. An extended closure is expected to have flow-on impacts for local businesses and communities across the region. The scale of damage also highlights the need for external funding support to restore this critical regional asset, particularly as the current Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements exclude the trail.

Council is seeking funding to implement a comprehensive recovery program for this much-loved and treasured asset. The detailed assessments for the rebuilding program is under way. Council is also working closely with partner councils and the Victorian Government to clarify funding options for repair and restoration.

Currently, about 60km of the trail is open to the public, including:

Tallarook through to the far side of the Cheviot Tunnel (with the tunnel open);

Mansfield to Merton; and

Alexandra trailhead to Maintongoon Road.

The central section of the trail, spanning about 70km, remains closed. This includes areas through Cheviot, Molesworth, Cathkin, Koriella, Yarck and Kanumbra, as well as the Cathkin to Alexandra spur line.

Council said safety remains its highest priority, and the trail will not fully reopen until all identified risks have been addressed. For the most up‑to‑date information on closures and access, visit https://greatvictorianrailtrail.com.au

Ingenia delivers successful open day

Milla Webster
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Ingenia delivers successful open day

DESPITE cold and lightly rainy weather, Ingenia Lifestyle Springside in Beveridge’s Open Day attracted a steady flow of visitors and went ahead as planned.

The day functioned as a showcase of Stage 1 of the development, along with the first 12 homes from Stage 2. The display homes presented a modern, resort-style approach to over-55s living, with a strong emphasis on community, independence and lifestyle.

The design and messaging throughout the site focused on creating a sense of belonging and encouraging social connection, positioning the development as more than just housing.

The open day itself was well-organised and welcoming. Visitors were offered a free sausage sizzle, a coffee cart, guided tours of the display homes and tours of the (currently under construction) main clubhouse.

In total, the full development will include 262 homes, with the main clubhouse set to open in June. There were tours of the clubhouse, which is a major feature of the development and clearly central to its community focus. It will include a pickleball court, barbecue area and pizza over, multipurpose court, indoor 18-foot heated pool, hair salon, yoga studio and gym, an outdoor terrace and firepit, undercover outdoor terrace, bar area, billiards tables and dart boards, lounge and kitchen spaces, gold-class style cinema, arts and crafts room and a library.

Another key focus of the development is sustainability and health-conscious design. The homes incorporate a range of eco-friendly features, including rooftop solar panels, heat recovery ventilation systems, airtight building design, fully electric appliances, recycled water systems, energy-efficient features and LED lighting, low-toxicity building materials, lighter-coloured roofs and net-zero home design principles.

Overall, the event highlighted not just the homes themselves, but the broader lifestyle and community model being promoted. The organisers were approachable and engaged, taking time to answer questions and acknowledge that relocating later in life can be a significant and sometimes challenging decision. That sensitivity seemed to resonate with visitors and contributed to a positive atmosphere despite the weather. 

Wollert man loses licence

The North Central Review
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Wollert man loses licence

A Wollert man has lost his licence allegedly over multiple offences.

He was allegedly caught driving over double the speed limit, under the influence of alcohol and without his P-plates in Lalor.

Greensborough Highway Patrol officers were conducting speed checks on the Hume Freeway when they spotted the black BMW sedan speeding just before 2am on Sunday, March 22.

The vehicle was allegedly detected travelling at 205km/h in a 100km/h zone northbound between the Metropolitan Ring Road and Cooper Street.

Officers intercepted the vehicle on Cooper Street, where they found the driver had failed to display his P-plates.

Police did an evidentiary breath test that returned an alleged reading of .021.

The 22-year-old Wollert man was arrested and immediately lost his licence.

He was charged with offences including reckless conduct endangering life, driving at dangerous speed, exceeding prescribed concentration of alcohol within three hours breath test, and driving without P-plates.

He was bailed to appear at Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court on June 10.

Water boost for groups

The North Central Review
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Water boost for groups

CITY of Whittlesea community groups have a chance to win up to $15,000.

Yarra Valley Water 2026 Community Grants Program is offering grants for initiatives that use water wisely, strengthen community connection, and restore and protect the natural environment.

Now in its second year, the program aims to build on its strong impact, having provided more than $100,000 to 14 community-led projects last round.

Two Whittlesea‑based organisations were among last year’s recipients, including Mernda Community Garden and Lalor Primary School.

Yarra Valley Water’s Managing Director Natalie Foeng said the organisation was expanding the program after the positive response to its pilot program.

“Every project we support creates a ripple effect of positive change, and we’re excited to see that impact grow even further this year,” Ms Foeng said.

This year, projects are invited to apply for funding across three categories:

Water efficiency and water conservation: for projects that help communities save water and build water-smart habits, such as installing water-saving devices, improving irrigation or rainwater systems, carrying out water audits and efficiency upgrades, or helping people build their knowledge about water.

Thriving communities: for projects that create positive impact in local communities. For example, initiatives that improve social and environmental wellbeing, or events and activities that help the communities connect and thrive.

Healthy natural environment: for projects that help restore and protect the natural environment. For example, rehabilitation of landscapes and waterways, supporting local biodiversity and wildlife or creating water-wise spaces in our community.

Eligible applicants include not‑for‑profit community organisations, schools, registered associations, charities, incorporated bodies and community groups across Yarra Valley Water’s service area.

Applications, which opened on Monday, March 30, close on Friday, May 1, at 5pm. Eligible organisations must be based in, or deliver services within, Yarra Valley Water’s service area.

For more information and to apply, visit: www.yvw.com.au/community-grants

Fifth person charged over Mernda attack

The North Central Review
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Fifth person charged over Mernda attack

A FIFTH person has been charged following the death of 22-year-old Good Samaritan Aidan Becker on March 6.

Homicide Squad detectives charged a 16-year-old girl from the Pascoe Vale area on March 26.

She has been charged with robbery, two counts of theft, hindering and assaulting police and possessing a drug of dependence.

The girl was summoned to appear at a children’s court at a later date.

Emergency services were previously called to reports of a group fighting on Bridge Inn Road about 5.50pm on March 6.

Mr Becker, from Mernda, had protected a 14-year-old from an alleged attack and robbery when he was stabbed, and died at the scene.

Police arrested a 16-year-old, 18-year-old and two 17-year-olds in relation to the incident. All four were charged with murder and armed robbery.

The 18-year-old will appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on June 24, while the three others will face a children’s court at a later date.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Winners heading to Royal Melbourne

Josh Squire
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Winners heading to Royal Melbourne

WINNERS from the 2025 Whittlesea Show travelled to Kyneton on Sunday to compete in the Victorian Agricultural Society (VAS) Central and Upper Goulburn Group Final.

The Whittlesea representatives were joined by more than 100 people from groups from Seymour, Lancefield, Mansfield, Yea, Alexandra, Kyneton, Sunbury and Lilydale with members vying for a spot in the VAS state finals to be held later this year.

The event, hosted at the Kyneton Showgrounds, offered a display of some of the best craft in the region, showcasing woodwork, baking, knitting and more, with Whittlesea Agricultural Society and Whittlesea Show representatives turning out in healthy numbers.

Their expertise was well received by the judges, who awarded four first place prizes to Vicki Anceschi (VAS Patchwork), Georgina Creed (VAS Sewing), Charles Scicluna (VAS Photography – Open) and Hannah Young (Three Decorated Cup Cakes/Muffins).

Vicki, who has now won four consecutive Central and Upper Goulburn Group Finals for the VAS Patchwork category, will be looking to take the state title this year after third and second place finishes in the past two finals respectively.

But for Georgina, it will be a whole new world as a first-time entrant.

Her design, boasting several embellishments sewn onto a small tote bag, will sit alongside Vicki’s “Tea Time” patchwork and Charles’s staircase photography, taken at Werribee Park Mansion, when the state final rolls around.

Second place prizes were given to Mark Proctor for his sponge cake, Elywn Wesley in the VAS Cross Stitch category, Alasdair Mackenzie for his impressive woodwork design of a globe stand, and Heather Mulready in VAS Hand Embroidery.

The winners of the VAS categories now advance to the state final which will be held at the Royal Melbourne Show starting on September 24.

Council reaffirms commitment to supporting family day care

The North Central Review
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Council reaffirms commitment to supporting family day care

THE City of Whittlesea will continue to support local families as a Family Day Care service provider following an independent review.

Council analysis of the review led to a resolution at its March 17 meeting to continue delivering Whittlesea Family Day Care Service and to expand its provision with plans to accept more educators into the Whittlesea Family Day Care service as the review captured local options available to families and a snap shot of council’s ongoing role.

The review found that further expanding the service would provide benefits to the local community such as local employment opportunities, ensuring choice for families, extending access to areas with lower availability of family day care or long day care and supporting the service’s long-term financial sustainability.

In good news, it found that council’s service has a strong history of compliance (46 years), and responded effectively to regulatory changes in the sector. On another positive front, the review found that the service has consistently been rated as exceeding the national quality standards as regulated in Victoria by Victorian Early Childhood Regulatory Authority.

City of Whittlesea Mayor Cr Lawrie Cox said: “Council is proud to support delivering such a high-quality service for our local families. This comprehensive review of Council’s Family Day Care service has given us the confidence to know that we can move forward with an expansion and still ensure we are being financially responsible in these tough fiscal times.”

Council also resolved for officers to report back annually until 2028 outlining the progress of the service expansion, financial sustainability, service performance and regulatory compliance requirements.

Anyone interested in becoming a Family Day Care educator can contact the Family Day Care Coordination team at familydaycare@whittlesea.vic.gov.au or call 9217 2170 to learn more.

Fire restrictions lifted

The North Central Review
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Fire restrictions lifted

THE Fire Danger Period (FDP) in Mitchell Shire ended on Monday, March 30, at 1am.

Fire restrictions have also been lifted in the neighbouring municipalities including Strathbogie and Murrindindi.

But CFA has warned people that there is still heightened fire risk, with dry weather expected for many more months.

CFA has urged residents to remain alert as the current and continued conditions can still lead to fast-moving grassfires even in cooler weather.

CFA Deputy Chief Officer for North East region Gavin Thompson said the easing of restrictions was due to a number of favourable factors in some areas.

“Recent fires in these areas have shown less intensity due to some recent rainfall,” Mr Thompson said.

“Nights are becoming increasingly cool, and we are seeing dew in the mornings that further reduces our fire risk.”

CFA Deputy Chief Officer for West region Steve Alcock said while the FDP has ended in these municipalities, people should remain vigilant.

“Even with milder weather we still want landowners to take precautions and ensure conditions are safe before burning off, and that someone is in attendance at all times to monitor the burn,” Mr Alcock said.

“Some of our neighbouring municipalities will still be under FDP restrictions, so it is important to always check your local restrictions before burning off to see if a permit is needed.”

Residents travelling to other parts of Victoria are reminded to remain vigilant and to check the fire danger periods that are in place in the region.

With the end of the FDP, some landowners may choose to resume burn-offs, but it’s essential to take precautions and ensure conditions are safe before proceeding.

Landowners must register their burn-offs. If smoke or fire is reported, it will be cross-checked with the register to avoid an emergency response. Where possible, landowners should also notify neighbours and those nearby who may be sensitive to smoke.

Burn-offs can be registered online at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au or by calling 1800 668 511.

New shopping centre on the way

The North Central Review
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New shopping centre on the way

MICKLEHAM will have a new shopping centre.

The 6000-square-metre Botanical Village shopping centre, opening on Saturday, April 11, will have 26 specialty retailers including a gym, pharmacy, medical centre and a range of food options, creating a one-stop-shop experience.

It’s co-located with a new Aspire Early Learning & Kindergarten facility that offers 142 places to support local families.

The centre, owned by a fund managed by industry superannuation owned IFM Investors, will be officially launched with a grand opening weekend on April 11 with a community day featuring live music, entertainment and $10,000 in prizes to be won.

Centre Manager Andrew Gibson said Botanical Village will play a key role in connecting the growing local community, particularly residents in Satterley’s Botanical Estate.

“Botanical Village represents more than just retail convenience – it’s about creating a genuine community hub where locals can shop, connect and access services all in one convenient place,” he said.

“Mickleham is one of Melbourne’s fastest-growing suburbs, and this centre has been thoughtfully designed to serve the everyday needs of families who’ve made this area home.”

Located on the corner of Ellscott Boulevard and Brossard Road, Botanical Village’s first retailers include Coles, Direct Chemist Outlet, Anytime Fitness, Dominos and Blue Hippo Laundry.

The new Coles delivers 75 new jobs to the local community, with 25 of its staff first-time job holders. The modern supermarket includes an open-front bakery, full-service deli and seafood counter. It also features an Indian grocery aisle.

Coles Mickleham Store Manager Taz Afzal said: “This store is about more than groceries, it’s about creating a community hub for Mickleham locals and giving them a convenient one-stop shopping destination closer to home, especially as the area continues to grow.

As part of the centre opening, an art installation consisting of two unique rickshaws transformed by local art collective Future Cultures formed by artists Katira and Lucy Lucy will be on display.

Racing News

Mary Hackshaw
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Racing News
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