Alexandra Newspapers

21/01/2024

Emergency services are currently attending a high angle rescue at Keppel Lookout in Marysville. Avoid the area.

Services including the SES, CFA, HEMS helicopter, Ambulance Victoria and police are attending. Some have come from as far afield as Dandenong and Monbulk, in addition to local services.

19/01/2024

TAYLOR BAY MOBILE RECEPTION OFFLINE DURING UPGRADE

Telstra have advised that the upgrade of the Taylor Bay mobile base station as part of a capacity upgrade will bring temporary disruptions.

From Monday, February 5 to Saturday, February 17, Telstra will begin upgrading its mobile base station in Taylor Bay to bring improved capacity however these works will require some temporary service disruptions or reduction in mobile coverage.

Due to the major work required on the site, a FULL SITE SHUTDOWN will occur between Monday, February 12 and Friday, February 16. If all goes well, work will be completed by Saturday, February 17.

Telstra mobile customers may start receiving text messages advising them of the upcoming upgrade.

Landline services, NBN internet services and mobile coverage from other providers will not be impacted.

Any calls to Triple Zero from a Telstra mobile when the site is off air will automatically be diverted to any working mobile network for connection to emergency services.

Regional General Manager for Telstra, Jenny Gray, said “We understand that there is never a good time for work like this to occur and we apologise for any inconvenience caused. We will be as quick as we can.”

“While coverage and capacity will be impacted during this time, we want to keep the amount of time the site is off air to an absolute minimum, and give the community as much time as possible to plan for the disruption.”

Please note that the works are intended to improve mobile connectivity in the existing coverage footprint.

“We have to turn the site off for a few days to perform the significant work needed to improve our mobile network in the Taylor Bay area. However, once it is all done, residents should notice an improvement in their service” Jenny Gray said.

Tips for improving connectivity while works are underway.

For mobile coverage in the interim, if residents have access to a wi-fi signal at home or at work, Telstra encourages residents to activate wi-fi calling. This is a free setting on most popular mobile phones and allows your mobile to use a Wi-Fi network to make and receive mobile calls. To find out more they can google Telstra Wi-Fi calling or just search in your settings icon on your phone.

We know many businesses use the Telstra network for their EFTPOS terminals. However, Telstra does not operate the EFTPOS network; it is operated by financial institutions. Many EFTPOS terminals can also be connected using fixed line or Wi-Fi/NBN internet connections. Retailers should contact their bank for more information and details on how to switch between these methods to ensure continuous service.

Long term benefits of the site upgrade

The roll out of improved connectivity in Taylor Bay means customers with Telstra mobile services and devices will be able to enjoy a better mobile experience.

“We are continuing to expand our mobile network across regional Victoria and nationally we are adding new sites to the network every week. Works such as these continue to demonstrate Telstra’s ongoing commitment to regional Australia,” Jenny Gray said.

The works are intended to improve mobile connectivity in the existing coverage footprint and will not provide additional coverage.

19/01/2024

Emergency services are currently attending a high angle rescue on the Cathedral Range. Eight emergency vehicles are at the site.

It's understood that a young female bushwalker has fallen and been injured.

Police, CFA, Ambulance Victoria and the SES are helping to extract the patient so she can receive medical attention.

12/01/2024

‼️Hazardous Material Incident‼️

Update:
Incident declared SAFE, appliances are now packing up and returning. Please see Murrindindi Shire Council for updates about the closure of the Yea Pool.

Earlier:
Please be aware there is a large chemical spill at the Yea Pool. Emergency Services have got an exclusion zone set up and specialist hazmat resources are responding to this incident!

High Street is now CLOSED Seymour bound and diversions are in place!

10/01/2024

UPDATE FROM GV WATER - Alexandra, Eildon and Thornton. Please return to normal water use - thanks for your help in conserving water over the past 2 days. Full update:

Details of incidents in the Goulburn Valley Water region. To report an incident or service interruption call 1800 454 500.

10/01/2024

BREAKING NEWS - EILDON
January 10, 2024

Emergency services are responding to a distressing incident at Lake Eildon, specifically near Jerusalem Creek Road.

The situation unfolded shortly after 6pm due to an water craft explosion, prompting an urgent and comprehensive deployment of resources.

At least two Ambulance Victoria helicopters are en route to the scene, where reports indicate a number of individuals have suffered burns. Among the injured, distressing reports suggest that two primary school-aged children are among those affected.

Details surrounding the cause and circumstances of the explosion remain unknown at this time.

This is a developing story, and more information is expected to be released as the situation unfolds. Our team is closely monitoring the events and will provide updates as they become available.

09/01/2024

NOTICE TO CUSTOMERS: Alexandra, Eildon & Thornton are experiencing water supply issues. Please limit water use to essential needs only. More info http://www.gvwater.vic.gov.au/service-interruptions/ or call 1800454500

Details of current and ongoing service interruptions.

08/01/2024

YEA EVACUATIONS

From Emergency Vic: This Emergency Warning is being issued for Yea. If you live, work or are holidaying in this area, you should Evacuate Immediately if safe to do so.
Floodwaters are rapidly rising.
Flooding is impacting this area.

If you are located in Mulqueeny Lane, Clarence Way, Newberry Chase and Buckland Court, it is recommended you Evacuate Immediately, if it safe to do so.

More at Emergency Vic

Victoria's combined source of emergency information and warnings, helping the community to prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies across the state.

08/01/2024

** UPDATE: This warning has been updated. Stay informed: https://www.emergency.vic.gov.au **

EMERGENCY WARNING - RIVERINE FLOOD - Evacuate Immediately
Incident Location: Seymour

Issue Date: Monday 08 January 2024, 11:50 am
Next Update: Monday 08 January 2024, 06:00 pm

This Emergency Warning is being issued for Seymour .

Major flooding is expected in the Seymour area, slightly higher then the 1993 flood level.

If you live, work or are holidaying in the streets listed, you should Evacuate Immediately.
- Floodwaters are rapidly rising.
- Flooding is expected to impact the following streets:
- Emily Street, Tierney Street, Lesley Street, Tallarook Street, Wallis Street, High Street, Elizabeth Street, Butler Street, Alexander Street, Edward Street, Station Street, Tristan Street, Hanna Street, Jubilee Street, Industrial Court.
- Kings Park and local river caravan parks will be impacted.

If you are located in the area listed above, it is recommended you Evacuate Immediately.

07/01/2024

Stay safe everyone. Do not attempt to drive through flooded roads.

*** UPDATE - ALL ROADS ARE NOW OPEN ***

⛔️‼️ Areas in Murrindindi Shire have experienced heavy rainfall since yesterday afternoon, with flooding in a number of locations in Yea and surrounds, Flowerdale and Eildon. Please stay safe and avoid travelling on the roads if possible. If you must drive, please ensure you drive to the conditions. Never drive through floodwaters and slow down when approaching emergency services and roadwork vehicles displaying flashing lights.

ℹ️ The following roads are impacted or closed:

⛔️KING PARROT CREEK ROAD, STRATH CREEK - CLOSED due to flooding

⛔️WHITTLESEA-YEA ROAD - CLOSED from Kinglake West to Yea

⛔️CRAIGIE STREET, YEA - CLOSED

🚗For the latest information on road closures, visit the VicTraffic website at https://traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au/

🌳💨⚠️To report fallen trees and road hazards, please contact Council on 5772 0333.

📞📱For all emergencies and for sandbags, contact the SES on 132 500 or dial 000. For information on power and power outages, or to report a fault, visit www.ausnetservices.com.au

📻 Tune in to UGFM - Radio Murrindindi and ABC Goulburn Murray for local information and advice, as our official emergency broadcasters.

‼️For further information on the severe weather event, please visit VicEmergency’s website or app via www.emergency.vic.gov.au/respond/

07/01/2024

⚠️Traffic Alert⚠️

Please be aware Melba Hwy is closed at Meadow Road in Yea!

No vehicles are allowed past this point until further notice.

If you know of any roads that are closed due to flood, let us know in the comments for the community to see!

02/01/2024

PAWSEY, Maurie. Maurie's funeral will be held at the Alexandra Football and Netball Clubrooms, at 1pm on January 8, followed by a Private Cremation.

01/01/2024

PAIX, Helen. A service celebrating Helen's life will be held at St Andrews Uniting Church, Alexandra on Thursday, January 4 at 1pm.

20/12/2023

Well, that's it from us for another year. We are going to have a well deserved three week break. Have a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy 2024. Karen and staff at The Alexandra Standard and The Yea Chronicle.

19/12/2023

Have you spotted any good Christmas lights near you? Any pics or recommendations to share?

This fabulous garden is on Lady Talbot Drive in Marysville.

15/12/2023

Police are seeking to locate a vehicle in relation to a burglary in Yarck where a safe was stolen. The incident occurred overnight between 9.00 p.m. on 10th December and 8.00 a.m. on 11th December. If you have any information relating to this incident please contact Alexandra Criminal Investigation Unit on 03 5772 1667 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

14/12/2023

***NOW DECLARED UNDER CONTROL

Issued Today at 4:23 PM. From Vic Emergency
This Advice message is being issued for Acheron, Rubicon, Taggerty, Thornton.
• There is a bushfire at Acheron that is not yet under control.
There is currently no threat to you, but you should stay informed and plan for what you will do if the situation changes.
What you should do:
• Monitor weather conditions and warnings.
• Review your fire survival plan.
• If you do not have a plan, decide what you will do if the situation changes.
Impacts in your area:
• Firefighters are responding to this fire.
• Smoke may be visible from nearby communities and roads.
This message was issued by Country Fire Authority

The next update is expected by 14/12/2023 08:30 pm or as the situation changes.

Use multiple sources to stay informed:
• www.emergency.vic.gov.au
• VicEmergency Hotline - freecall 1800 226 226
• VicEmergency app
• Facebook or Twitter ( )
• Tune in to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV.

14/12/2023

****NOW DECLARED UNDER CONTROL

7 appliances are currently attending a fire in Thornton.

13/12/2023

BUSHFIRE - LONGWOOD EAST, RUFFY, TARCOMBE
** NOW MARKED 'SAFE'

** 2.44pm - 4 appliances attending. MARKED 'SAFE'
** 2.35pm - 3 appliances responding.

This Advice message is being issued for Longwood East, Ruffy, Tarcombe.

There is a bushfire at Longwood-Ruffy Rd, Longwood East that is not yet under control.

There is currently no threat to you, but you should stay informed and plan for what you will do if the situation changes.

What you should do:

Monitor weather conditions and warnings.

Review your fire survival plan.

If you do not have a plan, decide what you will do if the situation changes.

Keep the roads clear so emergency services can respond.

Impacts in your area:

Firefighters are responding to this fire.

Smoke may be visible from nearby communities and roads.
This message was issued by Country Fire Authority.

The next update is expected by 13/12/2023 04:00 pm or as the situation changes.

13/12/2023

THUNDERSTORM ASTHMA ALERT

This Advice is being issued for North Central weather district, Wednesday 13 December 2023.

People may experience asthma symptoms or difficulty breathing due to thunderstorm asthma.

Thunderstorm asthma can be triggered by a combination of high amounts of grass pollen in the air and a certain type of thunderstorm. For people who have asthma or hay fever, this can trigger severe asthma symptoms.

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/thunderstorm-asthma

Be aware of an increased chance of experiencing breathing difficulties or an asthma attack. Prepare now - carry your asthma reliever puffer with you at all times today.

What you should do:

Avoid the wind gusts before the storm. Go inside and close your windows and doors.

Turn off air conditioners that bring in air from the outside (ie evaporative air conditioners).

Be aware of and act on the development of asthma symptoms including wheezing, breathlessness, tightness in the chest, or a persistent cough, as you may be having an asthma attack.

An asthma attack is serious and can be life threatening. If you are experiencing asthma symptoms for the first time:

- Don’t ignore them. Use the four steps of asthma first aid.
- If you don’t have an asthma reliever puffer, they are available without a prescription from pharmacies.
- You can also use another person’s asthma reliever if available.
- If your asthma suddenly becomes worse or is not improving, or if you are having an asthma attack and a reliever is not available, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

For health advice:

Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if someone is not breathing, if their asthma suddenly becomes worse or is not improving, or if the person is having an asthma attack and an asthma reliever puffer is not available.

Call Nurse on Call on 1300 60 60 24, contact Victorian Virtual Emergency Department https://www.vved.org.au/ or see your doctor if you require medical advice.

This message was issued by the Department of Health DH.

13/12/2023

🌩️ Weather Update 🌩️

While the North Central Fire District is only in a High Fire Danger Rating for today, it’s a good reminder that neighbouring districts are experiencing more severe fire weather conditions with three TOTAL FIRE BANS being declared in Victoria today Wednesday 13 December.

With thunderstorms possible across the entire Alexandra region it’s timely that you ensure you have a fire plan prepared, secure any loose items in your yard. Check in on elderly friends and family with the heat expected for more of the week and ensure animals are sheltered and have sufficient water.

Crews from all agencies are ready to respond to whatever incident may happen throughout Victoria but everyone should play their part to help. NO FIRES ARE TO BE LIT IN THE OPEN AIR WITHOUT A PERMIT. Any brigade call out to these incidents will automatically have police responded. It’s your duty to ensure your property is prepared and our duty to make sure we help protect it!

Alexandra Newspapers UGFM - Radio Murrindindi Murrindindi Shire Council

12/12/2023

Does anyone need any newspapers or shredded paper or boxes? Drop into The Standard office and grab what you need.

10/12/2023

🎁✈️FLIGHT ALERT - SANTA ✈️🎁

We spoke to the town, especially the children and you all loved him last year so we made the special call to the North Pole so…..

Santa and his helpers will be on his ride around the town before the big Christmas rush!

It’s also a well known fact that Santa loves being on the firetruck more than his sleigh. So lookout for Santa or even listen for the sirens!

That’s right… Santa will be between two trucks this year travelling through the streets of Alexandra this Sunday 17th from 9am, so be sure to come and say Hello to Santa.

We can’t wait to see you all out in the streets to watch Santa spread some joy to the people of this community.

But that’s not all… make sure you check out our Facebook on the day so you can tune into our live Santa tracker so you can follow his location and make sure you don’t miss him, we would love all the kids to make sure they get to see Santa!

Check out the Map below outlining the area’s Santa will be visiting. 🚨🚨

Alexandra Newspapers UGFM - Radio Murrindindi Murrindindi Shire Council Damien Gallagher, Murrindindi Shire Councillor

08/12/2023

⚠️We have detected high levels of blue green algae in Lake Eildon and Tullaroop Reservoir.

Customers and the public are advised to avoid direct contact with water in these storages as they contain toxins harmful to humans and animals.

More information can be found at the GMW website: www.gmwater.com.au/bga

07/12/2023

🚌 BUS STOP UPDATE - ALEXANDRA 🚌

PTV have provided further clarity on the bus stop situation in Alexandra.

From Monday, December 11:

Services REMAINING at bus stop located in Grant St Alexandra
- Route 684 – Ringwood Station – Eildon SC via Alexandra & Healesville
- Alexandra – Marysville via Taggerty & Buxton

Service REMAINING at bus stop located in Nihil St Alexandra
- V63 – Alexandra – Eildon via Thornton

Service RELOCATING to bus stop located in Nihil St Alexandra
- V/Line – Alexandra – Seymour

05/12/2023

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas......Are you decorating with Christmas lights this year? Let us know your address, so we can let everyone else know.

05/12/2023

KEITH BAUMGARTNER
December 7, 1935 ~ November 26, 2023
Family and friends are invited to join a Celebration of Life for Keith Baumgartner to be held at The Country Club Hotel. 18 High Street Yea, on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 commencing at 11.00am. Privately Cremated.

30/11/2023

🚌🚌🚌 BUS STOP CHANGE - ALEXANDRA 🚌🚌🚌

Public Transport Victoria have advised that there will be a temporary change to the coach stop location in Alexandra.

Instead of the bus stop outside the Alexandra Opportunity Shop, the temporary location will be on Nihil Street (between Grant and Bayley St), near Menzies Support Services.

PTV have advised that the change will be in place from Monday, December 11 until further notice.

29/11/2023

Important Update! We’re experiencing strong winds in the local area as well as neighbouring towns and are actively responding to several trees over the road. We’d like to encourage the community to avoid travel until the wind eases; in particular, on tree-lined roads. The wind has been coming from the southeast, which is unusual for our area and may cause trees to fall in unexpected places (as well as the usual suspects!). Be prepared for extensive debris on roads in the morning.

Please take care and avoid non-essential travel this evening.