Ex-Councillor Raylene Carr

Last night, travelling home from Marvel Stadium after watching the Stars v Renegades. It was obvious there would be a crowd at Southern Cross Station so why wasn’t there security to rope off the access to the escalator for a short time to allow the crowd to disperse. It wouldn’t take long.

Coming down the escalator there was nowhere to go. The platform was full of people. The only way to step off the escalator was to push the person in front of you.

One lady did fall and was very lucky a couple of people managed to help her regain her feet. Very disappointing end to a great night.

What an absolute pleasure it was today for Cr Prue Cutts, Deputy Mayor of Whitehorse and me to be warmly welcomed by the Whitehorse United Soccer Club ‘family’. We were there, with over 50 other women and John Mullahy MP to help raise funds for the Thursday Girls Advanced Breast Cancer Therapy and Support Group in honour of much-loved WUSC member, Janine Sexton who sadly passed away last November.

I immediately felt at home and considered it an honour to be invited back to the magnificent clubrooms at Terrara Park and catch up with many friends. Many thanks to Kim for the delicious buffet and to all who worked very hard behind the scenes to ensure we all had such a great afternoon.

I have no doubt, Janine, her partner and their 3 boys who were in attendance would have been very proud at the turn out and Janine would have been there with us in spirit.

I have been asked by Vanessa, Valda's daughter to let as many people know about Valda's Celebration of Life to be held at 2pm on Thursday 20 February.

If you know anyone who may want to attend, please pass on this information and wear something colourful to celebrate Valda's bright and wonderful life.

VALE VALDA ARROWSMITH OAM
Words are not enough to honour this great lady. Valda achieved more in her lifetime than any of us could ever dream of achieving. Even on her final day, she requested her daughter contact Whitehorse Council about an issue she was concerned about. I first met Valda more than 25 years ago. She started off as an acquaintance and as a wannabe Councillor, I respected her as a previous Councillor serving Nunawading Council from 1979 – 1990 and as Mayor from 1987-88. Valda quickly became my mentor, my supporter and my friend.

Once I became a Councillor, Valda wouldn’t hesitate to advise what I could have done better. She was never judgemental and always respectful and fair in her judgement. Her life encapsulated serving the community and this was recognised by being awarded an OAM in 2003. Every time I saw her, she would ask ‘why aren’t you Mayor, why are they not electing you? We need to get you elected as Mayor.’ She was always supportive. Unfortunately, her wishes, were never to come to fruition, but I did love her continual enthusiasm and support.

I last saw Valda at the Whitehorse Historical Society where she launched the 20th anniversary update of her late husband’s book. In 2004, Ted had researched and written the Legacy of Johann August Schwerkolt, Pioneer, so in 2024 a revised and updated version was proudly launched by Valda.

Many years ago, as a Councillor, I promised Valda I would do all I could to ensure the lead lighting that Ted had created for the previous Whitehorse Theatre would hold a prominent position when The Round was built. Something, I am very proud to say was recognised and achieved by all Councillors of the day.

I had a lovely warm conversation today with Vanessa, Valda’s daughter and we both agreed Valda will be long remembered and will forever hold a place in many people’s hearts. I certainly know, she will in mine. We also agreed, Ted would be at the pearly gates with arms extended to give her a huge hug, something Valda would be looking forward to.

A Celebration of Life will be held next week however, this still needs to be confirmed.

God bless you, Valda. I will forever remember you. RIP

Great win tonight by the women's team to retain the Ashes by beating England by 57 runs.

Another wonderful win by the Melbourne Stars over the Hobart Hurricanes. Great match to watch.

Below is a notification taken from the Petbarn website. I have received no official notification however, it is better to be safe than sorry, so I am posting as a precaution.

If your pet shows any sign of discomfort, and you don't know why, please seek veterinary advice.