By Tanya Steele
New community group forms to boost Sassafras and Ferny Creek
A newly established community group is working to enhance the Sassafras and Ferny Creek areas, aiming to make the region a more vibrant and inviting place for both residents and visitors.
The Sassafras and Ferny Creek Community Group, supported by local businesses and the Yarra Ranges Council, will be dedicated to improving local amenities such as footpaths, roads, street lighting, and public toilets and hosting events to bring together the local community.
The group, which includes both community members and business owners, is currently led by an interim committee and is actively advocating for several improvements, including additional seating, a community noticeboard, and the installation of a public defibrillator.
In addition to these efforts, the group is planning a series of community events, with the first one being an Easter Egg Hunt through the village on Easter Saturday, 19 April.
The event, running from 11 am to 3 pm, will invite families to explore the village, collect stamps and treats, and finish their journey at the local community hall where a special bonus prize awaits.
The celebration will also feature live music, craft activities, and a visit from the Easter Bunny himself, making it a fun day out for all ages.
Anyone interested in the township group are welcome to email: Sassafrasandfernycreekcommunity@outlook.com for more information.
Yarra Ranges Council urges locals to manage invasive Agapanthus
Yarra Ranges Council is reminding residents that now is the ideal time to tackle invasive agapanthus before seeds are fully formed, with the best removal period running from March to May.
While visually appealing, agapanthus can harm native vegetation by attracting large numbers of snails and slugs. The plant is also highly adaptable, thriving in conditions ranging from damp to very dry.
To remove agapanthus effectively, residents can pull the plants out by hand, ensuring they grab the roots, or apply herbicide, making sure to follow the label instructions carefully.
Another method is to dig them out, but it’s important to avoid spreading soil elsewhere, as this could further propagate the weed.
For those looking to replace agapanthus, the council recommends native alternatives from the Yarra Ranges region, such as the spiny mat rush and the butterfly flag, both of which are excellent substitutes.
Time to check those fire alarms
As Victorians prepared to adjust their clocks for the end of daylight saving over the weekend, RACV and the Country Fire Authority (CFA) is reminding residents about the critical importance of smoke alarm maintenance.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said it is vital all Victorians have working smoke alarms in their homes to prevent house fires and fatalities.
“The more smoke alarms you have in the home, the more likely you are to wake up and be alerted to a fire. We highly recommend residents install them in all bedrooms, living areas, and hallways for the best protection,” he Heffernan said.
Smoke alarm essential maintenance includes: monthly testing, recognising warning signs such as yellowing units or continuous chirping, installing the units properly and using 10-year lithium battery powered alarms.
