Linda Edwards has lived in Healesville for more than 19 years, but feels that she is being discriminated against while looking for a rental property because of her two Great Dane dogs.By Melissa Meehan
A resident of Healesville for more than 19 years has struggled to find a new home after the property she has been renting for 10 years was sold for owner occupation earlier this year.
Linda Edwards, a 59-year-old disabled pensioner who many may know from her former business Shaggy Dog Groomer, is now unable to find an affordable rental property in the town she loves so much.
“I have tried for five months to find a house, with two or three bedrooms for myself, my daughter and her partner,” Ms Edwards said.
Ms Edwards is now living part time in Mooroolbark with her daughter and part time in a Healesville caravan park.
She said that she believed she was being discriminated against because of her two Great Dane dogs aged six and 10.
“We have great references, but no one will have us,” Ms Edwards said.
“I have never missed a rental payment and will guarantee the dogs.”
While there may be more affordable housing throughout the Shire of Yarra Ranges, Ms Edwards said that she does not want to leave Healesville.
“We need to be near Badger Creek, as my daughter’s horses are on Badger Weir Road, they need feeding twice a day,” Ms Edwards said.
“I have no car, and use an electric scooter so that’s why I need to be close by – it takes me four hours on the bus to and from Mooroolbark.”
Ms Edward appealed to the Healesville community to help her find accommodation.
“My heart is in Healesville, the place I love,” Ms Edwards said.
“Can anyone help us?”
