The Local Paper. Mitchell Shire Edition. Wed., Feb. 7, 2024

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024

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■ Today marks the 15th anniversary of the Black Saturday fires that claimed 173 lives at the time.

Part of the horror of the day was the Kilmore fires that hit the Mitchell Shire and also extended into the Murrindindi, Whittlesea and Yarra Ranges muncipalities.

Murrindindi Council, led by Mayor, Cr Damien Gallagher, said: ““The 15-year anniversary of the 2009 bushfires is a difficult time for many people in our communities, and across our country.”

“On this day, Council, like other members of our community, will commemorate the anniversary in a quiet and reverent way, reflecting our community’s sentiment for continued recovery and growth.

“We will pause and remember the 100 people who tragically lost their lives in Murrindindi Shire, and the 173 lives lost across Victoria.

“We will reflect upon the devastating impact this natural disaster had on our community and environment, and other fire-affected communities across the State.

“The anniversary is also an important time to remember the overwhelming level of support provided by so many during, and in the aftermath of this crisis, from the incredible efforts of emergency service volunteers and first responders to those supporting the recovery effort over the months and years that followed.”

● Cr Damien Gallagher

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024

Lynne retires after 30 years ■ Rehabilitation works on Donaldsons Bridge are set to take place this month, improving safety and extending the life of the structure, says Mansfield Council.

The project includes replacing corroded steel cross-bracing underneath the bridge, and cleaning and repainting the underside to prevent further corrosion.

Mansfield Shire Council has engaged RBR Civil and Hire to complete the $18,500 rehabilitation, which will be funded from Council’s capital works budget.

Black Sat. date

■ Today (Wed., Feb. 7) is the 15th anniversary of the Black Saturday fires on Saturday, February 7, 2009.

Some 173 lives were lost in the fires that hit Victoria on that day.

Badly affected in the fires were large parts of Murrindindi Shire, as well as surrounding areas including Yarra Ranges, Mitchell, Whittlesea and Nillumbik.

MP’s office closed

■ Indi MHR Helen Haines says that her Wangaratta office has been shut since the beginning of 2024 due to storm damage.

“My team and I are hard at work helping the people of Indi with their most pressing concerns,” Dr Haines said.

■ Murrindindi Shire Council’s Long term Family Day Care Educator, Lynne Barkley, has retired after almost 30 years of providing quality early childhood education and care for children in Alexandra and surrounds.

Lynne joined the Council as an Educator in 1995 and has worked with hundreds of families in Murrindindi Shire during this time.

Ms Barklewy was often seen around town with children in tow, regularly offering the kids a fun outing to the park, the shops in the main street, storytime events at the Alexandra Library, and for a while attended the Buds and Blossoms intergenerational playgroup, giving the children a valuable experience that they all adored.

“The children in Lynne’s care were treated like family, and over the years Lynne has seen many of the children in her care grow up and have children of their own, placing them in Lynne’s care too,” said a Council representative.

Murrindindi Council’s Community Wellbeing and Economic Development Portfolio Councillor Sandice McAulay said “Lynne has been a beacon of dedication and love in our community. Her commitment to providing quality early childhood education and care for nearly three decades is truly commendable.

“Lynne’s retirement marks the end of an era, but her impact on the lives of countless children and families in and around Alexandra will be felt for generations to come.

“On behalf of Murrindindi Shire Council, I want to express our deepest gratitude for her years of service and wish her all the best in her well-deserved retirement.”

“Becoming a Family Day Care Educator is an excellent option for people who want a rewarding and flexible career. There are a range

● Lynne Barkley has returned after 30 years as a childhood educator of obvious benefits in becoming an Educator, chase of resources like printers, stationery, toys, including being your own boss, the ability to look and first aid training.” after your own child while looking after other “With the current shortage of Educators children, flexible work days and hours, 24/7 sup- across the state, it’s clear we need more wonport from Council, and opportunities for career derful Educators like Lynne. That’s why we’re development and training.”

“Murrindindi Family Day Care is also of- encouraging people with experience in early fering an incentive package for anyone childhood education, who might be thinking about wantingto kick start their career as an educator. trying something new, to consider a career as a Up to $2500 is available to assist with the pur- Family Day Care Educator.”

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Local Briefs Bridge works start

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Ticks & Crosses

The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 5

Local News

CRUNCHTIME FOR WHITT. COUNCIL CEO CRAIG LLOYD

Role models in environmental action, volunteering and advocacy have been ✔ ■ The extra country music recognised in Yarra Ranges Council’s anentertainer part-time job of

nual Community Awards. The annual awards were handed out following a citizenship ceremony on January 26 at the Lilydale Civic Centre, where 60 people received their Australian citizenship. Yarra Ranges Mayor, Sophie Todorov, said many of the award recipients had demonstrated a lifelong commitment to their communities.

■ Citizen of the Year: Sharyn Manning ■ Mayor’s Lifetime Achievement: Alan Somers ■ Ian De La Rue Award for Community Leadership: Randall Bourchier ■ Community Group of the Year: Millgrove Residents Action Group ■ Young Environmental Achiever: Lachlan Hudak and Sophie Morris ■ Certificate of Recognition: Bruce Argyle ■ Certificate of Recognition: Jean Steel ■ Certificate of Recognition: Veterans for Fishing Nillumbik Shire Council has been ✔ recognised for outstanding customer service, topping a national tele-

phone ‘mystery shopping program’. The Council was ranked No.1 overall in Customer Service Benchmarking Australia’s 2023 Mystery Shopping Program. The telephone assessment rankings were based on 11,575 assessments of 208 businesses conducted from January 2023 to December 2023. Nillumbik previously held the ‘best in sector’ ranking within local government but has now achieved ‘best overall’ for all participating organisations across a range of industry sectors. The Council’s says its engagement with CSBA’s program supportsits Nillumbik Customer First Strategy.

✖

The remains of what appear to be condoms have been on the floors of both lifts at the western ernd of Greensborough Plaza Shopping Centre.

They were first spotted by a Local Paper reader on December 19. They have been continually spotted over the summer break, and were still there on Friday (Feb. 2).

Bundoora Homestead Art Centre has ✔ announced Nathan Beard as the winner of the Darebin Art Prize 2024 for his

sculpture "Tropical Flesh (ii)". Nathan will receive a cash prize of $10,000 and his artwork will be acquired into the Darebin Art Collection. The winning work was selected by a panel of nationally recognised contemporary art experts comprising Dr Shelley McSpedden (Senior Curator at Australian Centre for Contemporary Art), Dr Moorina Bonini (artist and proud Yorta Yorta, Wurundjeri and Wiradjuri woman) and Sarah Werkmeister (Curator at Bundoora Homestead Art Centre). The judges said of the sculpture "Tropical Flesh (ii)": “Nathan’s work is intriguing in that it talks to a variety of themes. It’s a meditation on diaspora, it connects food with culture, and talks to his familial heritage. It talks about mortality while being playful. Part of a larger body of work, the sculpture also posits that cultures are always part of a wider global network.

As an early-to-mid-career artist, we are happy to see the work being acquired into the Darebin Art Collection and celebrate Nathan’s achievement in his practice so far.”

Nathan’s winning artwork will be available to view at Bundoora Homestead until March 23.

Whittlesea Council CEO Craig Lloyd may become a local election issue as Councillors return to the municipality in October this year.

Mr Lloyd, who is paid more than $390,000 annual salary by Whittlesea for his full-time municipal CEO job, spent a proportion of last month at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, furthering his parttime interest as a country music enteratiner.

Mr Lloyd has an ABN registration for his exrtra work, and runs extensive social media campaigns to promote his music. Connections of The Local Paper appear to have been blocked from Mr Lloyd’s country music Facebook page.

Mr Lloyd also operates his own website - www.craiglloyd. com.au - at which he describes himself as a “Multi-Award Winning Country Singer and Songwriter”.

One Whittlesea Council observer said: “Mr Lloyd is paid $7500 a week to be the 24/7 CEO. Ratepayers are entitled to expect his full-time attention to the job. Whittlesea’s out-of-town administrators seem to have no problem with this arrangement. Local councillors are likely to feel quite differently.”

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CHASING COUNTRY MUSIC FAME

● One of a series of self-promotional social media posts by Whittlesea CEO Craig Lloyd.

GRANTS OPEN AT NILLUMBIK

● Cr Ben Ramcharan, Mayor ■ Applications are now open for the Nillumbik Community Fund, Council’s major annual grants program supporting a huge range of local projects, activities and events.

Community groups, not-for-profit organisations, clubs and artists are invited to apply for grants of up to $5000 for projects that will benefit the Nillumbik community.

Applications are open until March 24, and an information session about the grant process and how to apply will be held at 11am topday (Wed., Feb. 7) at the Diamond Valley Library.

Nillumbik Mayor Cr Ben Ramcharan said the Council wanted to support grassroots initiatives that made Nillumbik a better place to live, work and visit.

Funding can be used to support initiatives such as: community or youth programs; First Nations activities; arts, cultural and heritage activities; community events; placemaking and other creative initiatives to activate a public space; community safety initiatives; environmental initiatives, or those that support Council’s climate action aims; initiatives that enhance and celebrate diversity, access and inclusion.

Last year, the Eltham Toy Library received $1500 to expand their range of diverse and inclusive toys.

REGIONAL EDITION

40 YEARS SERVICE TO MURRINDINDI, YARRA RANGES WHITTLESEA AND MITCHELL In April 1984, Ash Long purchased the Yea newspaper business from Tom Dignam. Exactly 40 years on, throughout 2024, Ash Long continues his lifetime of community service as Publisher of The Local Paper.

Times change. For some in the 1980s, the definition of ‘local’ was being between the two bridges in the Yea township. The local government mergers of the 1990s saw the new Murrindindi Shire widen the scope to take in parts of the Alexandra, Broadford, Eltham, Whittlesea and Yea municipalities.

The reconstruction and recovery from the 2009 ‘Black Saturday’ fires again broadened the meaning of ‘local’.

By the 1990s, Ash Long could see that the concept of a paid-circulation local newspaper was already outdated.

In the early 2000s, The Local Paper and its progenitors were already developing an online presence, as well as growing the free printed editions.

Tom Dignam and Ash Long, 1984.

Today, The Local Paper is still the largest local newspaper, with editions covering Mansfield, Mitchell Murrindindi, Nillumbik (rural), part of Strathbogie, Whittlesea (rural) and Yarra Ranges.

Decades on, Ash Long and his team remain committed to providing best possible service to readers and clients.

The Local Paper FREE Phone 5797 2656 or 1800 231 311 www.LocalPaper.com.au

Page 6 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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The Local Paper

Ash on Wednesday

Online weekly. Print copies fortnightly.

Fruit fly detected

Melbourne In association with the Established September 14, 1969

Observer

Published in localised editions in 40 areas across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and some country areas.

ABOUT US Incorporating the traditions of the Evelyn Observer (Est. 1873), Seymour Express (Est. 1872), Yea Advertiser (Est. 1995), Yarra Valley Advertiser (Est. 1995), Whittlesea Advertiser (Est. 1995).

The Local Paper is published weekly online and printed fortnightly and circulates in local editions: • Regional/’Dindi Local’ Edition: Murrindindi, Mansfield, Strathbogie, rural sections of Nillumbik and Whittlesea • ‘Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express’ Edition: Yarra Ranges Shire • Mitchell Shire Edition: Mitchell Shire

CONTACT US Phone: 1800 231 311, 9489 2222, 9439 9927, 0450 399 932, 5797 2656.

Reg. Office: 30 Glen Gully Rd, Eltham, Vic 3095 (same address for 30 years) Mail: PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095 Web: www.LocalPaper.com.au www.MelbourneObserver.com.au www.LocalMedia.com.au E-Mail: Editor@LocalPaper.com.au Editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au Editor@LocalMedia.com.au

OUR TEAM

Cheryl Threadgold, Local Theatre

Kevin Trask, Entertainment

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Editor: Ash Long Features Editor: Peter Mac Columnists: Len Baker, Matt Bissett-Johnson, Rob Foenander, Mike McColl Jones, Peter Kemp, Aaron Rourke, Jim Sherlock, Ted Ryan, Cheryl Threadgold, Julie Houghton, Kevin Trask, Gavin Wood, John O’Keefe Honorary Reviewers: Juliet Charles, Sherryn Danaher, Peter Green, Lyn Hurst, Kathryn Keeble, Beth Klein, David McLean, Graeme McCoubrie, Maggie Morrison, Peter Murphy, Jill Page, Elizabeth Semmel.

Logistics: Tim Granvillani, Graeme Hawke, Erica Koldinsky Credit Manager: Michael Conway OAM, Fast Action Debt Recovery, 0402 142 866

■ Yarra Ranges Council is asking residents to be on the lookout for the Queensland Fruit Fly in coming months and help prevent its spread, after local detections.

Queensland Fruit Fly has been detected in the Yarra Valley several times since February 2018.

Containment and eradication treatments were then put in place by private landowners, and the Council has been working with Agribusiness Yarra Valley to notify nearby owners when Queensland Fruit Fly is detected and work on containment measures.

Te fruit fly has again been detected in the Yarra Ranges, in the Lilydale area in mid-January.

The Queensland Fruit Fly is active in fruiting season, though populations increase in spring when temperatures rise above 16 degrees.

They can remain active in autumn and winter in warmer weather.

Yarra Ranges Council and Agri-business Yarra Valley will work with the landowners to contain and eradicate any Queensland Fruit Fly.

● Queensland Fruit Fly

Long Shots

with Ash Long, Editor

Flowerdale res-

Celebrating 55 years in local media Winner, Best Local Reporting Award Victoria-wide Westpac Award Direct: 0450 399 932 E: editor@LocalPaper.com.au Web: www.LocalPaper.com.au Personal: www.AshLong.com.au “For the cause that lacks assistance, ‘Gainst the wrongs that need resistance For the future in the distance, And the good that we can do”

idents living on the wets side of YeaWhittlesea Rd have been able to have their mail diverted to The Strath Creek ‘General’ store.

Mail for Flowerdale side of the road is usually handled through Yea. Residents have set up a GoFundMe page to support paying Mike and Sue’s legal fees.

As at Monday morning (Feb. 5), thge appeal had raised $1805.

The store was closed on January 29, when the landlords entered the premises and changed the locks.

“The closure of Hazeldene General Store has left a void in our community. No longer can we rely on the convenience of collecting our mail and packages, purchasing bread, milk, and other necessities close to home,” said the GoFundMe page.

Local Photo Flashback

Printed under contract by Newsprinters Pty Ltd, 1 McCoy St, West Wodonga, for the publisher, Local Media Pty Ltd. ABN 67 096 680 063, of the registered office, 30 Glen Gully Rd, Eltham, Vic 3095. Responsibility for election and referendum comment is accepted by Ash Long.

Copyright © 2024, Local Media Pty Ltd.

Read online editions at: www.LocalPaper.com.au www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Have a free copy of the online edition sent to your email address each week: www.FreePaper.com.au

■ A man drowned in the Yarra River last month, after he was swept away by fast-moving rapids near Osborne Rd, Warrandyte North.

Three friends raised the alert, and Police, Air Wing and Rescue Squad discovered the body after several hours.

The tragedy is said to have occurred near a “popular swimming hole” on the river.

Honours list

Public support

■ A legal dispute has closed Hazeldene General Store and Post Office at Flowerdale.

Landlords locked out tenants Mike and Sue, angering locals who have been unable to access their mail because of the shoip closure.

Local Briefs Warrandyte tragedy

● Glenburn Hotel. Pre-2009. Photo: Aussie Outback/Flickr.

■ Member (AM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia ■ Mr Francis RogerAcquah, Kalkallo VIC. For significant service to mental health care, and to the community.

Medal (OAM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia ■ Mr Raymond Cronin, Avenel VIC. For service to aviation.

■ DrAndrew James Hogan, Seymour VIC. For service to the community of Seymour.

■ Mr Michael Henry Tehan, Euroa VIC. For service to the community of the Goulburn Valley.

■ Mrs Peta Whitford, Steels Creek VIC. For service to orienteering, and to the community of Steels Creek Australian Police Medal (APM) Victoria ■ Detective Sergeant Roslyn Valerie Wilson.

Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) Victoria ■ Mr Damian Paul O'Toole, Eildon VIC.

Mitchell’s day

■ The Mitchell Shire community welcomed new Australian citizens and announced Community Award recipients in a ceremony held in Wallan.

The annual Council event was hosted by the Wallan Neighbourhood House, who were selected after an expression of interest process.

The 2024 Mitchell Shire Community Award recipients are: ■ Citizen of the Year: Sergio PradoArnuero ■ Young Citizen of the Year: Kirsten Boehm ■ Community Event of the Year: Seymour Show ‘n’ Shine ■ Community Group of the Year: Tyaak Cemetery Trust ■ Access and Inclusion Champion: Mitchell Rangers Soccer Club ■ Sports Person of the Year: Peter Baxter ■ Arts and/or Culture Person of the Year: Rhonda Coates ■ Commendation awards: Carolyn Atkinson and Margrette Inness ■ Certificate of Appreciation: Gnarly Neighbours, Seymour and District Art Society, Seymour and District Historical Society and Broadford and District Historical Society

Talk to Administrator

■ Strathbogie Shire’s Administrator Peter Stephenson is embarking upon a series of meetings with local residents.

Mr Stephenson has set up a schedule of meetings at Avenel (Feb. 13), Euroa (Feb. 27), Nagambie (Mar. 12), Strathbogie (Mar. 26), Ruffy (Apr. 9),and Violet Town (Apr. 23).

Residents can register to meet with Mr Stephenson in several townships throughout the Shire. Bookings are required to secure a time slot – there is a maximum of 15 minutes per person.

Mr Stephenson said it was a chance for residents to ask any burning questions or clarifications following the announcement of his appoiintment by Local Government Minister Melissa Horne.

“We know there are lots of people in the community who would like to chat about this decision and what it means for Council,” he said.

“I’d encourage anyone who would like to attend to do so. I’m more than happy to discuss any concerns with the community to ensure this transition is well understood.”

www.LocalPaper.com.au

The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 7

THE IGET IT, I THINK BIT

Lose yourself at one of Victoria’s renowned galleries or artist workshops.

You’ll find plenty to your taste – or not.

And that’s the fun of it.

Get curious at cultural institutions like Bendigo Art Gallery.

VISITVICTORIA.COM

Page 8 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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24 HOURS 7 DAYS A WEEK

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 9

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Local News Car Park works

■ Murrindindi Council advises that works are now complete on the reconstruction and resealing of the Pioneer Reserve Car Park in Yea. The Car Park area has been reopened.

“Thank you to local residents, community groups and those impacted by the closure for your patience while we completed this project,” a Council representative said.

4-year program

■ Mitchell Shire Council is inviting residents to help shape the future by providing input and feedback on its draft Four-Year Capital Works Program and 2024-25 budget development.

The consultation process will include a series of pop-up sessions at local markets, online platforms for feedback submission, and an interactive project pipeline on Council’s website.

Mitchell Council says it aims to gather input from across the Shire to ensure the budget development and capital works program meet the evolving needs of the community.

The draft 2024-25 budget and capital works plan will focus on vital areas such as infrastructure development, community services, and environmental sustainability.

Project highlights from the draft capital works program for 2024-25 include: ■ Wallara Waters Integrated Family and Children's Centre ■ Greater Beveridge Community Centre Expansion ■ Missing Links Footpath along Northern Highway, Wallan ■ Beveridge Central Active Open Space ■ Seymour Tennis Complex ■ Raised Pedestrian Crossing at Station Street and Wallis Street, Seymour ■ Wallan Kindergarten Play Space Renewal ■ Wellington Street, Wallan, road construction ■ Darraweit Road, Wallan, road construction

Mansfield’s best

■ Mansfield Shire welcomed a new Australian citizen on Friday January 26 at the Australia Day Ceremony in Botanic Park where the winners of the 2024 Mansfield Shire Citizen of the Year Awards were also announced.

The awards were presented across five categories and were awarded to: ■ Cathy Raeburn, Citizen of the Year ■ Karen Pirie, Senior Citizen of the Year ■ Amelie Walker, Young Citizen of the Year ■ Mansfield Pottery Festival, Community Event of the Year ■ Delatite Drivers Car Club, Community Group or Organisation Mayor Cr Steve Rabie congratulated the award recipients and nominees and commended their contributions, commitment, and valued work within the community.

Time for kinder.

■ Applications for the 3-year-old kindergarten program in 2025 and the 4-year-old kindergarten program in 2026 are now open.

With 43 kindergartens in the City of Whittlesea, including the newly opened Murnong Kindergarten in Donnybrook, families can now access two years of kindergarten at no cost.

“Thanks to funding received from the Department of Education, the City of Whittlesea is waiving the application fee, saving families up to $46. This initiative aims to make it even easier for families to enrol their children in these essential early education programs,” a Council representative said.

City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson encouraged parents, carers, and children to take the opportunity to meet the kindergarten teachers and explore the learning environment at the upcoming kindergarten open days.

“Kindergarten lays the foundation for a child's lifelong love of learning. IThe experiences gained during these formative years are instrumental in shaping confident, resilient, and well-rounded individuals,” Ms Wil-

Local News

Arrests over tobacco shops

■ ■ Police have charged two men and seized four guns and a significant amount of illicit tobacco as part of an investigation by Taskforce Lunar into a series of suspicious fires connected to the current illicit tobacco dispute.

Warrants were executed on Tuesday last week -Jan. 30) by the Lunar and VIPER taskforces at four properties in Epping (2), Campbellfield and Thomastown.

A 25-year-old Epping man, 40-year-old Campbellfield man and a 48-year-old Thomastown man were arrested and subsequently interviewed by police.

The Epping man has been charged with arson (x4) and extortion while the Thomastown man has been charged with possess carry or use unregistered long arm, non prohibited person possess handgun without a licence, possession of traffickable quantity of firearms and handle stolen goods.

Both were remanded in custody and to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.

The Campbellfield man was released pending further enquiries.

Police seized the following from the Campbellfield address: ■ 615kg of loose tobacco valued at approximately $800,000; ■ Almost 725,000 cigarettes with an excise value of $750,000; and ■ 1068 vapes valued at approximately $30,000.

From the Thomastown property, Police seized four firearms including two rifles, a handgun and an imitation longarm, as well as a range of ammunition.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Detectives will allege the Epping man was responsible for commissioning a number of arson attacks on businesses last year, including: ■ A fire at a tobacco store in Glenroy on October 9; ■ Two fires at the same Docklands restaurant on November 18 and 20; and

■ Some 29 Yea Golf Club members competed at Alexandra Foodworks Masters Round 3.

The Ladies shone the torch for us with Sharon Grogan taking out the Ladies Mini Master trophy with 38 points Sue Aurisch also did well with 33 points to be declared runner up in B Grade Ladies Best score from the Men was understood to be 35 points.

- Alan Pell

Yea Golf Club

■ A fire at a reception centre in Tullamarine on December 8.

He has also been charged in relation to a threat against a tobacco store owner in Glenroy on September 24.

The man was interviewed in relation to a fire at a Williamstown North business on October 5 and a fire at a Docklands restaurant on December 8, however has not been charged in relation to those matters at this time.

Taskforce Lunar currently has 31 active arson investigations, which include tobacco stores, vehicles, gyms, restaurants and private addresses.

A significant investigation into the series is underway with Taskforce Lunar drawing on a range of specialised resources from the Gang Crime Squad, Arson and Explosives Squad, Echo Taskforce, VIPER Taskforce, Criminal Proceeds Squad and Financial Crime Squad.

The taskforce is also working closely with regional police, as well as a range of external agencies such as the ABF, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, Australian Federal Police and Australian Taxation Office.

New citizens at Murrindindi ● New citizens were sworn in at Alexandra on January 23.

■ Murrindindi Shire Coun- gratulations to all the confercil celebrated six new Austra- ees and wished them all the lian citizens on Tuesda, Janu- best in their new journey as ary 23, at an official Citizen- Australian Citizens.

Murrindindi Council will ship Ceremony held at the ■ Mitchell Council has Alexandra Council Chamber. proudly host a further three Citimade the decision to temClinton, Negin, Rajeshna, zenship Ceremonies throughporarily suspend its Road Management Plan for a Alireza, Hector, and Catherine out 2024. two-month period, effecTo learn more about bepledged their loyalty to Austrative immediately. lia, its people, and its demo- coming an Australian citizen, This means that regucratic beliefs, and to uphold and please visit the Department of lar activities and obligaobey the laws of Australia and Home Affairs website or call tions outlined in the plan respect the rights and liberties the Citizenship Information are temporarily put on hold line on 131 880 during business of its people. due to exceptional circumstances.

In attendance were distin- hours.

“The recent rain and Mayor Cr Damien guished guests including flooding event has had a Murrindindi Shire Council Gallagher said, “This cersignificant impact on our Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher, emony is a significant event in road infrastructure,” said CEO Livia Bonazzi, Cindy the lives of the conferees, and a Council representative.

McLeish MLA, Gaelle Broad it is a privilege for our commu“Since the event there MP, Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell MP, nity to welcome our newest citihave been approximately Henry Andrews and Bob zens. We are here to acknowl147 individual roads listed for works with a total of 26 Benghamy from Alexandra edge their commitment and to roads being closed at the RSL, and Sharon Fox from celebrate their new journey as peak of the event.

Rotary Club ofAlexandra, who Australians.”

“Despite Council's efwere pleased to congratulate forts to address the situaour newest Australians. ● This edition of The Local tion through reactive An apology was received Paper covers Mansfield, works, further inspections from Aunty Angela ten Mitchell, Murrindindi, Nillumand repairs are essential to ensure the safety and funcBuuren, a Taungurung Elder. bik (rural), Strathbogie (part), tionality of the affected Murrindindi Shire Council Whittlesea (rural) and Yarra roads.’ extended its warmest con- Ranges.

Road Plan suspended

Local Sport M’dindi Masters

■ Strong blustery winds greeted the 39 members who fronted up for Wednesday Round 7 Gender Challenge played as a Stroke and Putting event.

Scoring was difficult in the windy conditions but several players shone through. None more so than Margie Wright (24) with 69 nett to lead all comers Stuart Jarvis (13) provided the highlight in the Mens group with 72 nett to take out second place overall.

Evergreen Gary Pollard (15) and the consistent Peter Johnston (18) both recorded 74 nett to fill the minor placings for the Mens team Ladies Captain Jan Wealands (31) nett 73 and Miranda Gill (17) nett 76 collected valuable points for the Ladies team In the Putting Competition Jeff Aurisch was a standout and clear winner with 25 putts in the Mens. Jan Wealands and Adrianne Anglin both registered 28 putts with Jan getting the nod on a countback Not to be left out in the cold Adrianne collected the Ladies NTP on the 10th Hole.

Mens NTP went to Paul Clayton This weeks Club Award went to rough cutter Brian Preistly.

Next Saturday -Feb. 10) is the final round of the Murrundindi Masters at Yea. Any members wishing to participate in this event should contact Vicki Clements to ensure they It is really pleasing for all members to welcome home Mens Club Captain Alan Pell who has endured some health issues over the past month. Great to hear and hope to see Alan back on the course as soon as possible.

-Phil Armstrong

SDCA results

■ A-Grade. Alexandra A Grade 10/73 v Tallarook A Grade 2/78. At Leckie Park Seymour A Grade 4/138 v Pyalong A Grade 9/136. At Chittick Park (East) Avenel A Grade 9/86 v Yea Tigers A Grade 2/91. At Avenel Recreation Reserve Bye: Eastern Hill A Grade ■ B-Grade. Eastern Hill B Grade 1 2/245 v Seymour B Grade 9/76. At Kings Park Reserve (Seymour) - Oval #1 Tallarook B Grade 10/130 v Yea Tigers B Grade 6/141. At Tallarook Recreation Reserve Pyalong B Grade 10/126 v Puckapunyal B Grade 2/132. At Pyalong Recreation Reserve Eastern Hill B Grade 2 8/126 v Avenel Senior Men 7/123. At Kings Park Reserve (Seymour) - Oval #2 Bye: Alexandra B Grade

Reconciliation Plan

■ Murrindindi Shire Council says that it continues to make progress towards reconciliation, with several key initiatives being achieved during the first six months of implementing its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan.

“With a focus on improving cultural awareness and fostering cultural safety, Council has completed a review of our workplace policies to ensure the organisation maintains a high standard of cultural safety for our employees and broader community,” said a Murrindindi Council media statement.

“We have developed guidelines for engaging and working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and organisations. These guidelines support Council in consulting and involving First Nations Peoples in decision making for key projects, leading to better outcomes for our communities.”

Page 10 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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MARKETING FEATURE

The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 11

Page 12 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 13

Local Sports History

Early days of racing at Alex.

■ Early mentions of horse racing at Alexandra came within weeks of the first issue of the Times local newspaper.

“There was a goodly attendance on the race-course last Thursday, and seldom have I witnessed a more orderly and enthusiastic crowd than that which assembled on the hill, not at Flemington, but at Alexandra,” wrote the Times correspondent on August 18, 1868.

“The town was decked out with a grand display of bunting in honor of the occasion and every thing looked gay.

“Although the "old hoss" did not win, he showed such an amount of gameness and good staying qualities that I noted him as first favorite when next he enters the lists.

“My "dark 'un" did not make the show I expected, the pace being evidently too severe, yet he persevered to the end.

“I had a look at the stable in the evening and found the old one and the dark gentleman looking as fresh as daisies, but did not fancy the appearance of most of the others who seemed thoroughly jaded by this their first gallop and defeat.

“I wonder how all the free lunches which were provided on Thursday last were disposed of. “North, south, east, or west, turn how one would, the startling announcement that a free lunch was provided stared you in the face.

“I have no doubt the greater part of the solids disappeared somehow, and the worthy bonifaces of the town had nothing to complain about in the shape of the sale of liquids, for to judge from the number of thirsty souls who crowded the several bars a golden harvest was being reaped.

“In the evening there were free balls and suppers at several of the hotels, and the sounds of music and of mirth could be heard up to a late hour.

“All seemed upon enjoyment bent, and the utmost good humor prevailed throughout the entire festivities.” ★ On the mining fields of Godfrey’s Creek, foot races were organised alongside horse races on New Year’s Day 1869.

Stewards - E. W. Pennington, John Tuin, John Ambrose, E. T. Farrell, Judge. - Mr D. Curtain.

Starter - Mr T. Hannigan.

“A considerable crowd collected on the course, which was about one mile from the township.

“Several booths were erected, and refreshments were provided on a liberal scale, which was highly pleasing to the crowd collected to see the sports.”

FLAT RACE. Prize £3: distance one mile anda-half,for all horses the property of the inhabitants of the creek.

Mr Pennington's Maritana ......... 1 Mr. Farrell's Champagne Charlie 2 Mr Thompson's My Dream ........ 3 Mr Ambrose's Tommy ................. 4 “When the flag fell My Dream rushed to the front, followed by Champagne Charlie, who made a good effort to reach the front; but they were beaten by Maritana coming in a winner by two lengths, Time 3 min. 56 sec..

2ND EVENT Distance one mile; for all horses the pro perty of residents on the creek.

150th anniversary of first meeting

● This advertisement appeared in the Alexandra Times on December 3, 1869.

Pristine hay each horse.

Win if I Can .................................. 1 Stranger ....................................... 2 Tommy .......................................... 3 Grey Tommy ................................. 4 At the drop of the flag Tommy went to the front, followed by Grey Tommy; Win if I Can and Stranger in the rear. At the the distance a sharp race took place between Win if I Can and Stranger, which resulted in Win if I Can coming in first by a head.

After the race a protest was entered against Win if I Can and Stranger, on the plea that they ran inside the post; this however, was to be decided by the stewards. Time 8 min.

3RD EVENT - THREE MILE RACE For all diggers' horses on Godfrey's Creek Prize £3 New Broom ................................... 1 Champagne Charlie ..................... 2 Tommy........................................... 3 Fly at Night ................................... 4 Tommy at the start rushed off to the front but was ultimately beaten

by New Broom coming in an easy winner. Time 8 min.

CONSOLATION STAKES Distance one mile and-a-half; for all beaten horses. Prize £3 Fenella ............................................ 1 Champagne Charlie ..................... 2 Grey Tommy ................................. 3 The horses kept well together for one round, when Fenella took the lead, winning easily. Time 5 min 3 sec.

HANDICAPFOOTRACE For all comers. Prize, 30s.

J. Gundy ....................................... 1 D. Fagles ....................................... 2 W.Dearlove ................................... 3 Gundy was placed ten yards in advance of the two others; he won easily.

A number of girls' and boys' races, throwing the stone, &c. afterwards took place, which closed a day's good sport, the first ever held on Godfrey's. ★ Origins of a race club at Alexandra are alluded to in a Times press report on December 3, 1869: “The Alexandra Race Commitee have set to work in an energetic manner.

“The course is now cleared and marked out. Subscriptions are fast coming in, so that everything indicates the first meeting on the new

“It will be seen by reference to our advertising columns, that a meeting of subscribers to the fund will be held this evening for the purpose of electing Stewards.

“We trust gentlemen will be selected in whom the public repose implicit confidence.”

The 1870 officials were J. Peterkin (judge), with stewards comprising W.V. Smith, A.H. Emerson, John Whitelaw, A. Motherwell, F. Coster, G. Whiting, J. Blain, J. Cronin and John Branch. By. Perkins was starter, A. Armstrong was listed as Clerk of the Course, C. Harker was elected as Treasurer, and T.A. Bourke filled the role as Hon. Secretary. ★ At Godfrey’s Creek, a two-day meeting was advertised for December 27-28, 1869.

The Godfrey’s Creek Jockey Club notified that its stewards were R.W. Blythman J.P., J.J. Downing, R. Gruby, E. Namsberg, W.K. Boulter, R.Anquetell, T.N. Jewell and J. McMahon.

Other officials included J. O’Callaghan, J. Coyne (Clerk of the Course), Samuel Fenton (Treasurer and Secretary), and A. Bunney (Weigher).

The first day of racing included a Maiden Plate, Miners’Purse, Town Plate, Ladies’ Pulse and ‘Hurry Scurry’.

The second day events were the Licensed Victuallers’ Purse, Hurdle Race, Storekeepers’ Plate and Consolation Stakes.

“A penalty of £1 will be entered against any jockey riding in colours other than those entered ... all jockeys to ride in proper costimes.” ★ The Alexandra Races were advertised for Thursday-Friday, March 1718, 1870 (insteadof February 24-25).

The second day promised the Alexandra Handicap with a £30 prize for the race over two miles.

Nominations needed to reach Secretary Calvert Harker by March 1. Acceptances needed to be accompanied by 40 shillings.

The Times (March 18, 1870) reported on the race meeting: “Yesterday may indeed be accounted a rod letter day.in the annals of Alexandra, and when the time comes that the attendance at our race meetings may be counted by thousands instead of hundreds, which may not be so very far off, despite the melancholic croakings of a

few the morning visitors from all quarters began to flock into the township, and until about noon the cry was "still they come."

“Bilious bipeds, who always look at the darkest side of things, this race meeting-which may be called our first legitimate trial to establish an annual race meeting in.Alexandra will be looked upon as inaugurating a new era in sporting matters in this district.

“Thursday morning dawned bright and fair, and old King Sol shone forth in his brightest raiment to do honor to the occasion.

“Upon arriving on the course, we found three substantial booths erected. The first of these, which included the grand stand, was under the able management of Messrs Irvine and Levy, the second belonged to Mr J. Kirwan, of the Shamrock Hotel, and the third to Messrs P. O'Donnell and P. Buggy.

“Having refreshed the inner man, we proceeded to take a cursory view of things in general, and were much gratified to see such a ga:thering of youth and beauty, the "fair daughters of Victoria" being present in great numbers.

“The usual ''under and over" and roulette tables were in full swing, despite the terrors of the law, and again exemplified the truth of the old adage, "A fool a d his money," &c.

“The greatest order and good humour prevailed throughout, and all appeared to enter into the day's sport with great zest.

“An accident happened during the afternoon by which two persons were injured.

“It appears that a young lady, whose name we have not learnt, was riding: round the course, when she came into violent collision with two horsemen who were coming from the osrte dircotion.

“She was thrown heavily to the ground, one of the horsemen sharing a similar fate.

“We understand that the young lady has received a slight injury to her hip, and that the unfortunate man had his leg broken in two places.

“The first' race of the day was the Maiden Plate, for which there were seven colored on the card, the whole of which weighed out.

Flirt won after a good race.

Maiden Plate, £10, One Mile and Half, weight for age.

Mr Hoysted's Flirt, aged ................1 Mr Purcell's Killingworth, aged ................... 2

Mr Kelly's Murrundindi ............. 3 “The following also ran-Wildfire, Thorn ton Maid,. Creeping Jane, and Possum.

“A capital start was effected, the lot getting away well together, with the exception of Possum, whose chance was hopeless from the first, “Flirt, Murrundindi, and Killingworth kept well together, with Wildfire close up. for about half way round, when the latter began: to drop off.

“A fine race home then ensued, which was cleverly won by Flirt. A protest was entered against the winner on the ground of having previously won an advertised prize, which was decided by the Stewards disqualifying her.

“Protests were also entered against the second and third horses, through which Killingworth was also disqualified, the j ockey having dismounted before being ordered to do so.

“The protest against Murrundindi, which was a.similar one to that against Flirt, will be decided this evening:.

“The next eventof the day was the Publicans' Purse, £15, Two Miles, weight for age.

Mr Hoysted's Poison .................... 1 Mr Patton's Velocipede ............... 2 “Only two horses came to the post for this race, and both got away well at the start.

“Velocipede 'gradually' drawing ahead, the rider of Poison evidently waiting on him.

“When. half the distance was accomplished Poison gradually crept up, and at last passed 'her antagonist.'

“From.this time the race was never in doubt, the mare gradually increasing her lead, and coming home a winner several lengths ahead of Velocipede, who ran a game horse throughout.

“The Ladies' Purse having fallen through in consequence of there not being sufficient. entries, a Visitors' Handicap was got up in lieu thereof.

“The following horses started for this event : Visitors' Handicap, £15, Tivo Miles.

Mr Sherman's Roger ................... 1 Mr Hoysted's Poison ................... 2 Mr Purcell's Killingworth ............ 3 Mr Cronin's Rosina ..................... 4 “Roger went off with the lead; but was passed by Poison. Roger, however, shook the mare off, upon whom the weight began to toll, and ran home an easy winner.

“The next event on the programme was the Hurdle Race, for which five horses were colored on the card, all of whom came to the post: Thie race was won by Moscow.

Hurdleo Race, Two Miles and a Half, over 2 Leaps, 3ft 6in Mr Hoysted's Moscow .................. I Mr Patton's Lantern ....................2 Mr Sherman's Turpin ................. 3 Mr Taylor's Gertrude .................. 0 Mr Taylor'sPhantom .................... 0 “This was the most exciting raceof the day. A good start having been effected, Turpin at once made a rush to the front and secured the lead, which he kept till the seventh jump was reached, at which he baulked.

“Moscow then assumed the lead, his title to which was disputed by Lantern. A fine run home onsued between the pair, Moscow at last winning by a couple of lengths, “This brought the first day's racing to a close, the remaining event on, the card - a hack race - being postponed on account of the lateness of the hour.”

Page 14 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Where to pick up your free copy of The Local Paper ■ ALEXANDRA. Alexandra Newsagency. 82-84 Grant St. ■ ALEXANDRA. Corner Hotel.

65 Grant St. ■ ALEXANDRA. Endeavour Alexandra (BP). 10 Downey St. ■ ALEXANDRA. Foodworks. 102 Grant St. ■ ALEXANDRA. Mount Pleasant Hotel. 90 Grant St. ■ ALEXANDRA. Nutrien Harcourts. 56 Grant St. ■ ALEXANDRA. Shamrock Hotel. 80 Grant St. ■ ALEXANDRA. Simpson’s Fuel (Caltex). 25 Aitken St. ■ ALEXANDRA. Totally Trout. 42 Downey St. ■ BUXTON. Blue Igloo Roadhouse. 2200 Maroondah Hwy. ■ BUXTON. Buxton Hotel. 2192 Maroondah Hwy. ■ BUXTON. Shell Buxton. 2093 Maroondah Hwy. ■ DIAMOND CREEK. Diamond Creek Newsagency. Shop 62a Main Rd, Diamond Creek Plaza.

■ DOREEN. Doreen General Store. 920 Yan Yean Rd. ■ EILDON. Foodworks. 18 Main St. ■ ELTHAM. Eltham Newsagency.

2/963 Main Rd. ■ EPPING. APCO Service Station. Cnr McDonalds Rd and High St. ■ EPPING. Epping RSL. Harvest Home Rd. ■ FLOWERDALE. Flowerdale Community House. 36 Silver Creek Rd. ■ FLOWERDALE. Flowerdale Hotel. 3325 Whittlesea-Yea Rd. ■ FLOWERDALE. Hazeldene General Store. 6 Curlings Rd. ■ GLENBURN. Glenburn Roadhouse. 3883 Melba Hwy. ■ HURSTBRIDGE. Hurstbridge Newsagency. 900 Main Hustbridge Rd. ■ KANGAROO GROUND. Kangaroo Ground General Store.

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1369 Taggerty-Thornton Rd. ■ THORNTON. Rubicon Hotel.

1362 Taggerty-Thornton Rd.

■ THORNTON. Thornton General Store. 1365 TaggertyThornton Rd. ■ WATTLE GLEN. Peppers Paddock General Store. 13 Kangaroo Ground-Wattle Glen Rd. ■ WHITTLESEA. Champions IGA Supermarket. 2/16 Church St. ■ WHITTLESEA. El Azar Milk Bar. 13 Church St. ■ WHITTLESEA. Royal Mail Hotel. 29 Beech St. ■ WHITTLESEA. Whittlesea Bowls Club. 101 Church St. ■ WHITTLESEA. Whittlesea Court House. 74 Church St. ■ WHITTLESEA. Whittlesea NewsXpress. 45 Church St. ■ WOLLERT. Wollert General Store. 491 Epping Rd. ■ YARCK. Buck’s Country Bakehouse. 6585 Maroondah Hwy. ■ YARCK. Giddy Goat Cafe.

6606 Maroondah Hwy. ■ YARCK. Yarck Hotel.

Maroondah Hwy. ■ YEA. Amble Inn Cafe. 24 High St. ■ YEA. Country Club Hotel. 18 High St. ■ YEA. Endeavour Petroleum (BP). 31 High St. ■ YEA. Foodworks. 10 High St. ■ YEA. Giddy Coat Cafe. 94 High St. ■ YEA. Grand Central Hotel. 64 High St. ■ YEA. Marmalades. 20 High St. ■ YEA. Mint and Jam. 46 High St. ■ YEA. Nutrien Harcourts. 52 High St. ■ YEA. Peppercorn Hotel. 21 Station St. ■ YEA. Provender Bakery. 56 High St. ■ YEA. Rendezvous In Yea. 10 High St. ■ YEA. Royal Mail Hotel. 88 High St. ■ YEA. Yea Bakery. 44 High St. ■ YEA. Yea Newsagency. 74 High St. ■ YEA. Yea Take-Away. 68 High St.

Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express Edition

■ COLDSTREAM. Coldstream Post Office/Newsagency. The Lodge Shopping Centre. 670-672 Maroondah Hwy. ■ CROYDON NORTH. Croydon North Newsagency. 5 Exeter Rd. ■ HEALESVILLE. BP. 66 Maroondah Hwy. ■ HEALESVILLE. Coles Express. 123 Maroondah Hwy. ■ HEALESVILLE. Grand Hotel.

270 Maroondah Hwy. ■ HEALESVILLE. Healesville Newsagency. 195 Maroondah Hwy. ■ HEALESVILLE. Tobacco Station/Tatts. Shop 11, Healesville Walk.

■ LAUNCHING PLACE. Launching Place General Store.

2200 Warburton Hwy. ■ LAUNCHING PLACE. Home Hotel. 2170 Warburton Hwy. ■ LILYDALE. Lilydale Newsagency. 237 Main St. ■ MILLGROVE. Licensed Grocery. 3043 Warburton Hwy. ■ MOUNT EVELYN. Mount Evelyn Newsagency. 1A Wray Cres.

■ RINGWOOD. Burnt Bridge Newsagency. 434 Maroondah Hwy. ■ SEVILLE. Wooworths Seville.

568 Warburton Hwy. ■ WANDIN. Wandin Newsagency. 18/2 Union Rd. ■ WARBURTON. Bakery. 3415 Warburton Hwy. ■ WARRANDYTE. Grand Hotel.

140 Yarra St. ■ WARRANDYTE. Quinton’s Supa IGA Supermarket. 1/402 Warrandyte Rd.

■ WARRANDYTE. Warrandyte Newsagency/Post Office. 100 Melbourne Hill Rd. ■ WESBURN. Hotel. 2882 Warburton Hwy. ■ WONGA PARK. IGA Xpress.

70 Jumping Creek Rd. ■ WOORI YALLOCK. Hillcrest Little Store. 1745 Warburton Hwy. ■ WOORI YALLOCK. Woori Yallock Newsagency. Shop 4,1585 Warburton Hwy. ■ YARRA GLEN. IGA Supermarket. 1/38 Bell St. ■ YARRA GLEN. Yarra Glen Newsagency. 32 Bell St. ■ YARRA JUNCTION. Yarra Junction Newsagency. 2454 Warburton Hwy.

Mitchell Shire Edition

■ BEVERIDGE. Beveridge Post Office. Lot 1 Old Hume Hwy. ■ BROADFORD. Broadford Corner Store. 89 High St. ■ BROADFORD. Broadford Hotel. 100 High St. ■ BROADFORD. Broadford Newsagency. 67 High St. ■ BROADFORD. Broadford Post Office. 123 High St. ■ BROADFORD. Broadford Service Station. 165 High St. ■ BROADFORD. Commercial Hotel. 31 High St. ■ BROADFORD. High Street Bakery. 67A High St. ■ BROADFORD. IGA Supermarket. 65 High St. ■ BROADFORD. Stuty’s Bakehouse. 91-93 High St. ■ DONNYBROOK. Donnybrook Hotel. 825 Donnybrook Rd. ■ DONNYBROOK. Donnybrook Post Office. 810 Donnybrook Rd. ■ KILMORE. BP. 102 Sydney St. ■ KILMORE. Kemp’s Bakery.

65 Sydney St. ■ KILMORE. Kilmore Bakery.

54 Sydney St. ■ KILMORE. Kilmore Newsagency. 41 Sydney St. ■ KILMORE. Red Lion Hotel.

29-31 Sydney St. ■ KILMORE. Royal Oak Hotel.

29-31 Sydney St. ■ KILMORE. United Service Station. 127-145 Powlett St. ■ SEYMOUR. IGA O’Keefe’s.

10/115 Anzac Ave. ■ SEYMOUR. Liberty Seymour.

37-39 Emily St. ■ SEYMOUR. Seymour NewsXpress. 66 Station St. ■ SEYMOUR. Seymour South Post and Lotto. 75 Anzac Ave. ■ SEYMOUR. Prince of Wales Hotel. 48 Emily St. ■ SEYMOUR. Royal Hotel. 26 Emily St. ■ SEYMOUR. Terminus Hotel.

26 Station St. ■ SEYMOUR. Top Shop. Cnr Anzac Ave and Delatite Rd. ■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook General Store. 36 Main Rd. ■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook Hotel.

15 Main Rd. ■ TRAWOOL. Trawool Estate/ Hotel. 8150 Goulburn Valley Hwy. ■ WALLAN. United Service Station. 11-14 High St. ■ WALLAN. Wallan News and Lotto. Shop 6, 55 High St. ■ WALLAN EAST. New Rattlers Inn. Station St. ■ WANDONG. Caltex Star Mart.

3272 Epping-Kilmore Rd. ■ WANDONG. Dundee’s Fish and Cips. 3272 Epping-Kilmore Rd. ■ WANDONG. IGA Supermarket. 3272 Epping-Kilmore Rd. ■ WANDONG. Wandong Post News and Tatts. 3272 EppingKilmore Rd. ■ WANDONG. Kemp’s Wandong Bakery. 372 EppingKilmore Rd. ■ WANDONG. Magpie and Stump Hotel. 3313 EppingKilmore Rd.

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Court Lists Seymour Magistrates’ Court Plaintiff / Informant / Applicant vs Defendant / Accused / Respondent. Information Division.

Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, Februray 7 Bau, John Thursday, February 8 Arnup, Glen Baker, Adrian Baker, Kye Blackwell, Natha Boulton, Ashlee Bouwmeester, Matthew Bulled, Peter Cleaver, Benjamin Dowson, Hayley Edwards, Nathan Fletcher, Timothy Furlong, Bryan Goodwin, Andrew Gray, Matthew Luke Hartman, David Hatfield, Robert John Hazelden, Dianne Heinemann, Dane Houston, Luke Hyatt, Michael Jones, Christopher Lee Krosohos, David Mancino, Carl Moore, Jamie Morrison, Travis Nayda, Robert Neil Rogers, Shane Rusic, Benedict Alexander Stebbing, Finn Strnak, Ivan John Wright, Joanne Friday, February 9 Hands, David Mcmaster, Michael Davi Minnitt, Lorraine Molloy, Tracey Elizabeth Moreton-Smith, Anthon Rusic, Christopher Tuesday, February 13 Bennett, Taylah Shaye Brazier, Scott Creeley, David Harrington, Jason Ismail, Baris Jelcon Pty Ltd Johnstone, Glenn Robert Mcbean, Dylan Gregory Mclaren, Shane Pemberton, Andrew Robbins, Luke Robert Shamsudin, Mohamad Walton, Kerry Wilson, Jason Glen Wridgway, Ryan Thomas Mansfield Magistrates’ Court Wednesday, February 7 Abdo, Fouad Barrett, Kenneth Alan Behan, Max Christodoulou, Michael Clay, Kieran Dowling, George Howard Fong, Charles Timothy Grau, Harrison John Groves, Dene Gysberts, Luke Hassett, Lilly Hu, Lin King, Bradford Paul Marks, Robb William Miritis, Theodosios Monk, Michelle Parry, Robert Preston, Harry Joh Pun, David Purcell, Matthew Robert Raisi, Murtaza Schierholter, Pete Shahed, Khan Shakes, Olivia Matilda Spiers-Fife, Amy Start, Brendan Michae Trellu-Coker, James Henri Virgona, Leith Mark Woronka, Nicholas Yehia, Hasan

Local News 89-year-old dies

■ Police are investigating a fatal crash in Whittlesea on Sunday, January 28.

Officers have been told a ute was travelling along Wallan Rd when it left the road and crashed into a tree, about 4.30pm.

An 89-year-old Wallan man, the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, died at the scene.

Exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be determined and investigations remain ongoing.

Vale Margaret Mott

■ A senior member of the Leader Newspapers dynasty, Margaret Mott, has died at the age of 94. Margaret was wife of John Mott, and mother of Julie, David and Andrew. A private funeral service was held.

Craigieburn fatal

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash which occurred in Craigieburn on Saturday morning (Feb. 3).

Emergency services were called to the vicinity of Grand Boulevard and Newbury Boulevard about 3.20am after reports a motorcycle had crashed.

Police were quickly on scene and located a male rider with critical injuries.

Crews attempted to treat the man but he died at the scene.

Exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be determined and investigations remain ongoing.

Mernda follow-up

■ Transit Divisional Response Unit officers have charged a man following criminal damage to Flinders Street Railway Station.

It is alleged that on January 12 a man scaled and tagged the heritage listed façade of the building causing extensive damage.

It is also alleged tags were painted on walls around the Westgate Tunnel Project in Spotswood and across Sandringham, Mernda, Craigieburn and Sunbury railway lines. The damage is estimated at over $200,000.

Police executed search warrants at addresses in West Footscray and Caulfield North and seized a number of items including spray paint, knuckle dusters and a samurai sword.

The 23-year-old West Footscray man has been charged with multiple offences including criminal damage and possessing a controlled weapon.

He was bailed to appear in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court tomorrow (Thu., Feb. 8).

Teen arrested

■ Police have arrested a teenager after a traffic camera car was allegedly damaged in South Morang.

It is believed the car was damaged on Findon Rd about 1.50pm on 27 January.

The teenager allegedly ran up to the car and kicked the side mirror, before fleeing on foot.

The female camera operator inside the vehicle as not injured.

After executing a search warrant in Kalkallo, officers have released a 15-yearold Kalkallo boy pending summons.

Biodiversity plan

■ In consultation to help develop the draft biodiversity strategy, Nillumbik Council heard that local people value biodiversity, think that biodiversity in Nillumbik today is okay but declining, and consider the biggest threats to biodiversity in Nillumbik include habitat loss, climate change impacts, development of land, non-native/pest animals, and tree canopy loss in urban areas.

Vale Dr Ash Gordon

■ A young doctor, Ash Gordon, who has worked at the North Eltham Medical Centre, was killed as he encountered thieves who had entered his Sargent St home in Doncaster.

Victoria Police have laid charges over the incident.

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 15

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● Whoopi Goldberg in Sister Actr has inspired the stage show.

■ Sister Act will make its Australian debut from August, coming to Melbourne after Sydney.

The production of the Broadway and UK smash hit musical comedy sensation direct from London will open at the Regent Theatre in Melbourne from November.

“It is a joyous thing to produce a musical that has never been seen in Australia before and I feel very blessed to be bringing Sister Act to our shores,” said producer John Frost.

“It’s a brilliant, must-see show that will lift audiences up and I know Australians will get into the habit of seeing again and again.”

Based on the iconic film starring Whoopi Goldberg and featuring original music by Tony and eight-time Oscar award-winner Alan Menken (Disney’s Aladdin, Enchanted, The Little Mermaid), and songs inspired by Motown, soul and disco, this heavenly musical is joyous and uplifting in equal measures.

Disco diva Deloris’s life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder. Placed under protective custody she is hidden in the one place she shouldn’t be found – a convent.

Encouraged to help the struggling choir, she helps her fellow sisters find their true voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.

Casting announcements will be made in the coming months.

Page 18 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 19

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City Extra The hottest news around Melbourne

The Buzz Philip Brady discharged

● Flashback: Philip Brady with walking frame after his first hip break.

■ 3AW ‘Remember When’ cohost Philip Brady was due to be discharged from hospital last week, after surgery for a second broken hip.

Brady, 84, was sidelined after he fell in an incident with dog Oro outside his Kew home. The radioTV host had to crawl inch-by-inch on his driveway and into his home to reach a phone to call an ambulance.

● Sydney radio pair Kyle Sandliands and Jackie O say their entry into Melbourne radio on KIIS 101.1 will be ‘soon’.

ABC ALUMNI WELCOMES KIM ■ ABC Alumni have welcomed the appointment of Kim Williams as the new Chair of the ABC Board.

“We understand that Mr Williams was on the shortlist submitted by the Nomination Panel. We are pleased that this government has stuck by its election promise to follow the process laid down in theABC Act,” said theAlumni Board comprising Jonathan Holmes (chair), Janet Clayton, Quentin Dempster, Gael Jennings, Sandra Levy and Alan Sunderland.

“Kim Williams was the CEO of News Ltd (now News Corporation Australia) for less than two years. In a long and varied career, he has also been Chair or CEO (among others) of Musica Viva, the Australian Film Commission, Southern Star Entertainment, Foxtel, and the Sydney Opera House Trust. He has been a senior executive at the ABC and a Commissioner of the Australian Football League.

“With that varied experience, we have no doubt that Kim Williams will be aware of the vital importance of preserving the ABC’s independence from government.”

Under The Clocks Woman In Black returns

● Kim Williams, ABC Chair

ON AIR AT THE OPEN

Sci Fi at Nova

■ The Melbourne Science Fiction Film Festival returns to Cinema Nova from February 23-25 with 10 sessions of what it considers to be the best sci-fi/fantasy films.

This year’s Melbourne line-up will include 16 Australian premieres from independent visionaries whose features hail from France, Canada, Macedonia, Sweden, the United States and the United Kingdom. The short-film roster of 12 titles includes groundbreaking works from the Chinese visual effects sector.

STOP PRESS

■ The Woman In Black, at Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre from June 14, will star John Waters and Daniel MacPherson.

With a career spanning 50 years, Waters is well known for lead roles in the film Breaker Morant and the television series Rush, All the Rivers Run, Rake and his 20-year run on Play School.

Waters has toured many times with his one-man show Looking Through a Glass Onion.

Daniel MacPherson rose to fame on Neighbours, spent two years in the UK on the popular TV ● John Waters and series The Bill and starred on Daniel MacPherson stage in Godspell.

Producer Alex Woodward said, “I first saw The Woman in Black in 2020 and knew I had to bring it back to Australia. It’s such an incredible gripping show that is so spellbinding, it has you on the edge of your seat for two hours. When it came to casting we knew it was perfect to ask theatre royalty John Waters to reprise his role he debuted in Australia more than 15 years ago. Daniel was also a natural choice for his incredible ability, charm and charisma.”

Written in 1983, Susan Hill’s The Woman in Black has become one of the most successful gothic novels in the English canon. Readers are transported to the eerie setting of Eel Marsh House in the small market town of Crythin Gifford in the north of England.

The story is told through the first person narration of Arthur Kipps, who begins the novel too distressed to share a ghost story with his family, and then recounts how as a young solicitor he was sent to oversee the funeral of a Mrs Alice Drablow, a client of his law firm.

Along the way he encounters many who seem unwilling or unable to share the secrets of Eel Marsh House and its inhabitants, until he himself encounters the Woman in Black, and begins to unravel the mystery of the haunted past and eerie spectre he sees.

Patti wows ‘em in Grease

● Peter ‘Grubby’ Stubbs with Luke Dennehy at the Open.

Melbourne Moments Tom starts

■ Former 60 Minutes reporter Tom Steinfort has made a confident start as co-anchor of the weekday Nine News bulletins alongside Alicia Loxley.

Having previously worked on the Today show and A Current Affair, the Melbourne-raised journalist studied at RMIT University, with his first onair role at WIN Ballarat.

Loxley and Steinfort have replaced Peter Hitchener, who turns 78 on February 21.

The Steinfort family had a connectio with the Croxton Park Hotel between 1948 and 1971.

60 Minutes

● Tom Steinfort

■ 60 Minutes welcomed reporters Dimity Clancey and Adam Hegarty to the team, starting last Sunday (Feb. 4).

Dimity started with 9 News Sydney in 2010, covering crime. In 2016, she joined A Current Affair, where her work was recognised with both a Walkley and Kennedy Award.

Adam has worked as a reporter, producer, and writer in newsrooms around the world, including at Sky News in the UK, Turkish television, and CCTV / CGTN in Beijing. In 2018, he moved to 9 News as a Reporter.

● Patti Newton stars in Grease at Her Majesty’s.

■ Entertainment veteran Patti Newton is wowing audiences in the latest production of Grease The Musical at Her Majesty’s Theatre in Melbourne. It is 10 years since her late husband Bert starred in the same production.

Patti Newton, who turned 79 last Sunday (Feb. 4), came into the role fresh from her appearances as The Bird Woman in Mary Poppins, in which she starred in the Brisbane and Melbourne performances.

Patti’s debut in Grease as Miss Lynch was slightly delayed when she contracted COVID. She stars alongside Marcia Hines as Teen Angel and Jay Laga'aia as Vince Fontaine. ● Nine Network personality Pete Smith says he spent a morning today hi in company with veteran GTV-9 Chief Engineer Tom O’Donohue at Sorrento . O’Donohue is aged 92.

Page 20 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 21

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Melbournewide PRAHRAN

New parks open

■ Mount St and Bangs St parks in Prahran are now open. Mount St and Bangs St parks officially opened late last year and are the first of four parks to be completed as part of the Mount St Masterplan which will include the development of Anchor Park and Remo Park (future).

Stonnington Council has organised free fun activities this February. There will be yoga, dancing and jiu-jitsu classes as well as art workshops, pet photography and a pet parade and competition.

- Stonnington Council

MASONS SEND KIDS ON BEACH HOLIDAY

High voltage taser

■ Police have charged two men after they were located asleep in a vehicle in Melbourne’s CBD. Officers noticed the car on Spring St just after 5.30am on Saturday, January 27, and approached it to find two men asleep, with the driver alleged to have drug paraphernalia on his lap.

Police subsequently searched the car and allegedly located drugs, tools, suspected stolen property, cash, and a charged professional grade taser capable of producing a 60,000volt charge.

A 31-year-old Kensington man has been charged with multiple offences including possess a prohibited weapon, possess a drug of dependence, and receive/handle stolen goods.

He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates' Court.

A 41-year-old Bendigo man has been charged with receive/handle stolen goods, deal property believed to be proceeds of crime, and commit an indictable offence whilst on bail. He was bailed to appear in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on April 16.

- Victoria Police

SUNSHINE

Charges over fire

■ Brimbank Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man over a suspicious building fire which occurred in Sunshine.

Emergency services were called to a fire at a commercial premises on Devonshire Rd about 4am on Saturday, February 25 last year.

The fire quickly spread and a number of business were damaged.

A 29-year-old man from Gatton, Queensland was arrested by police. He has been charged with criminal damage by fire, burglary and reckless conduct endangering life and has been remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on April 15.

- Victoria Police

MORNINGTON PENINSULA

Roads responsibility

■ Fulton Hogan Industries Pty Ltd will be responsible for the maintenance of Mornington Peninsula’s 1700 km road network, as well as drains and footpaths.

- Mornington Peninsula Council

Tobacco shop fire

■ Firefighters were working to control a "suspicious" fire at a tobacco store on Hargreaves Mall.

The blaze is believed to have started around 4.51am on Monday, January 29 at a store near the Williamson St end of the mall.

Police said the tobacco store fire was being treated as suspicious and they would investigate whether it had any links to other recent fires.

- Bendigo Advertiser

Bottle uncorked

Students’ mural

MELBOURNE CBD

BENDIGO

RUTHERGLEN

EPPING ■ Students from Al Siraat College, Edgars Creek Secondary College and Wollert Secondary College have joined forces to create a public mural at the Y Leisure City in Epping.

In response to feedback from local school Student Representative Councils, this initiative, led by the City of Whittlesea, is focused on enhancing the connections of young people to local sports and recreation spaces.

Renowned Melbourne Street artist Baby Guerrilla was commissioned to guide and inspire the students to bring their creative visions to life.

Together, they co-designed paste-up walls reflecting the four pillars of Y Leisure City Epping: Community Wellbeing, Community Contribution, Sustainability and Justice, while seamlessly incorporating the values of their schools.

- Whittlesea Council

Across Victoria

● Wakanyans Chief Ken Cribbes, Freemasons Grand Master Anthony Bucca, Freemasons Foundation Chairman Garry James, Cottage By The Sea Director Andrew Balaam and Cottage Finance Director Moira Willcox.

■ Some 18 disadvantaged children from bushfireaffected Nicholson Primary School in Gippsland will enjoy a life-changing beach holiday at Queenscliff’s Melbourne Cottage By The Sea, thanks to the generosity of the Freemasons.

The annual Wakanyanas event at the Queenscliff Masonic Centre saw more than 100 attendees present a $22,123 cheque to make the holiday possible.

Freemasons Foundation Victoria Chairman Garry James announced an $8000 A video posted to social FireWise project in the Far contribution towards the media by the Victorian East. project. More than $200,000 Ambulance Union showed a The FireWise project aims has been raised for Cottage collapsed ceiling and a well to improve, share, test and

By The Sea, since the developed patch of black demonstrate our understandWakanyanas event began in mould. ing of how numerous species 1916.

- Sunraysia Daily of Indigenous (native) plants, Freemasons Grand Master can be retained or planted in GORDON Anthony Bucca thanked strategic locations around the members, families and built environment, to better friends who attended the protect assets from bushfire special fundraiser. and enhance local biodiversity.

YARRAWONGA ■ Worst fears of wildlife - Snowy River Mail advocates have been confirmed after multiple WARRNAMBOOL koalas were killed on the Western Freeway in Gordon ■ Yarrawonga’s Australia after the logging of a nearby Day Awards Ceremony was blue gum plantation. well attended at Kennedy Tree felling operations ■ Work on the long-awaited Park with awards presented began on December 4, at the $384 million redevelopment to local citizens who have plantation which was home of the Warrnambool Base given back to their commuto a small but significant Hospital will soon get nity in the past 12 months. population of koalas. underway.

Hosted by the Yarrawonga At the time, wildlife During a visit to the Mulwala Rotary Club on advocates appealed to the recently completed Regional behalf of Moira Shire state government to take Logistics Distribution Centre Council, a large crowd precautions prior to logging, in Warrnambool, Minister listened to a stirring speech such as relocating the four for Health Infrastructure from guest speaker and 2021 koalas that were living in the Mary-Anne Thomas also Federation Council Citizen of forest. the Year Vivian Spilva OAM, But the Victorian Conser- announced Hansen Yuncken before the awards were vation Regulator denied re- will begin work on the presented. quests on the grounds reloca- hospital redevelopment early John Wright was tion would cause significant February.

- Warrnambool Weekly awarded the top honour of stress to the animals. being named the 2024 - Ballarat Courier WANGARATTA Yarrawonga Citizen of the Year.

- Yarrawonga Chronicle ORBOST

Observer

Statewide

Dead koalas along Fwy

John is top citizen

MILDURA

Black mould at station

■ The Ambulance Union says its members refuse to work in the Irymple Station building if interior water damage is not fixed “very, very quickly”.

Hospital upgrade

Fire Wise awareness

■ After a number of discussions with landowners in fire impacted areas, Far East Landcare Victoria and the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife and are excited to announce the

Reflection ceremony

■ It was a big Australia Day long weekend with official events getting things off to a wonderful start, with 800 people at the awards ceremony and around 150 people attending the inaugural reflection ceremony in Merriwa Park.

- Wangaratta Chronicle

■ Rutherglen's historic wine bottle has intrigued many passersby, yet few have had the opportunity to peer inside - until now.

Throughout January, the Rutherglen Wine Bottle committee has uncorked the iconic water tower, inviting the public to explore what is inside.

Committee president Julie Taylor said the response has been enthusiastic, with about 80 visitors attending the tours each Sunday morning.

- Border Mail

BAIRNSDALE

Renovations

■ Bairnsdale's Ambulance Branch has thrown open the doors to show off its newest renovations and extension.

It was the tireless fundraising work of the BairnsdaleAmbulanceAuxiliary that enabled the renovation of the branch, which was completed in November last year.

The renovations include two new vehicle bays, an office, a dedicated training space and additional sleeping quarters.

- Bairnsdale Advertiser

HORSHAM

Subdivision sale

■ A new 16-lot subdivision contains the largest industrial blocks Horsham has seen on the market – and it is attracting interest.

Harcourts Horsham director Mark Clyne said the Kenny Rd blocks, ranging from 4685 to 11,400 square-metres, were meeting a demand for new businesses to establish themselves in the municipality, and allowing existing businesses to expand.

He said eight blocks were already on hold or under contract after going on the market before Christmas, with interest expected to increase in February.

- Weekly Advertiser

MANSFIELD

Credit for rates

■ Barwite resident Dan Harrop has recently been credited over-paid rates after successfully querying a change in categorisation on his Mansfield Shire rates notice that saw his farmland property re-classified as rural residential.

Mr Harrop has had the Melba Rd property for close to 20 years, with the 40 hectare property one of the larger properties in the immediate vicinity.

The overlay is farming and the property itself had always been zoned farmland, until recently when - along with a rates increase – the zoning changed.

- Mansfield Courier

GUYS FOREST

Fatal cycle crash

■ Emergency services responded to a fatal motorcycle crash in Guys Forest on Saturday morning, January 27.

It is believed the male was riding with other people when he crashed and hit a railing on Old Shelley-Walwa Rd just after 11.30am.

The rider died at the scene.

Exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be determined and investigations remain ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the collision, with dashcam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au - Victoria Police

Page 22 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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Local Theatre Grease The Musical

■ Grease the Musical fans of all ages can enjoy rocking with the gang from Rydell High at Her Majesty's Theatre until March 14.

This show is presented by John Frost for Crossroads Live Australia. 1950s dressed patrons enhance the atmosphere, ready to enjoy the show's familiar tunes, rendered with gusto by Dave Skelton’s orchestra.

Luke Joslin’s sharp-edged, pacey direction and Eric Giancola’s snappy choreography create a high energy production, outpacing the slower '50s era, but delighting modern-day audiences.

Trudy Dalgleish’s intrinsically timed, vibrant lighting design is a strong player in the show’s aesthetics, complemented by James Browne’s theatrically colourful, creative costumes.

The triple-threat vocal/dance/acting talents of the young lead performers are fantastic, but emphasis on vocal/dance work for principal characters in this interpretation risks diminished character development.

Annelise Hall (Sandy) and Joseph Spanti (Danny Zuko) are well cast in the iconic lead roles, joined by more splendid performers Mackenzie Dunn (Rizzo), Brianna Bishop (Marty), Keanu Gonzalez (Kenickie), Lucy Fraser (Patty) and Gareth Isaac (Eugene), Catty Hamilton (Frenchy), Caitlin Spears (Jan), with Andy Seymour (Roger), Harry Targett (Sonny) and Tom Davis (Doody), supported by a dynamic, talented ensemble.

Personable Jay Laga’aia is Vince Fontaine, popular Patti Newton plays Miss Lynch, and Marcia Hines makes a stunning, glittery appearance as Teen Angel.

Sandy’s transformation in this interpretation was more exaggerated and raunchier than other Grease versions seen, which I felt was questionable considering the show's enthusiastic young audience members.

The controversial message conveyed regarding Sandy’s transformation has remained the same since the first version seen in 1972 at Melbourne's Metro Theatre, presented by Harry M Miller, but is usually implemented with skilled subtlety.

Show standouts for me were Mackenzie Dunn’s heartfelt, dynamic portrayal of Betty Rizzo, Marcia Hines’ moving performance, and the spectacular, fabulously staged Greased Lightning number.

It is terrific to see Grease the Musical return to the Australian stage.

Until March 14.

Her Majesty's Theatre, Melbourne.

- Review by Cheryl Threadgold

Showbiz Flashes

■ Screen Producers Australia has announced that Aussie funnyman Matt Okine will join the who’s who of the Australian screen production industry as the host of the 22nd Annual Screen Producers Australia Awards on the Gold Coast in March.

■ RocKwiz’s Really Really Good Friday is being held at Hamer Hall on March 29.

■ James Morrison’s Jazz Quartet meets John Foreman’s Symphony Orchestra - one night only at Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne on February 26.

■ Shaki Prasanna, the creative force behind new micro-documentary series, Heatwaves, has been redefining Melbourne's diverse art scene. The first three in the series featured woodstock carving artist, A.Kid; footwear designer, Tim Gleig; and illustrator, Aki Yaguchi.

■ An additional preview has been announced for the upcoming Melbourne season of the musical Wicked, on Saturday March 2 at 7.30pm at the Regent Theatre.

This will be the first chance for fans to see the much-anticipated Broadway blockbuster in Melbourne. Tckets for this special preview will cost only $20 and go on sale at 8am today (Wed., Feb. 7) at the Regent Theatre.

Tickets for this preview performance are only available in person through the Regent Theatre box office.

■ Sarah Buchecker is now a Producer for the breakfast show on ABC Mildura-Swan Hill. She joins from the Sunraysia Daily, where she spent three years as a Journalist.

■ Network 10 has launchws a new 3.30pm news bulletin hosted by Narelda Jacobs.

The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 23

Melbourne

Confidential Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

JOYFUL CHOIR OF MAN

● Tapper Ethan Vijn (Handyman) delights his pub mates and audiences with a spectacular routine in The Choir of Man. Photo: Danysha Harriott ■ If you have not yet seen The Choir of Man concept (Danny Ginsberg) and splendid music at the Playbox, Arts Centre Melbourne, then from Malcom Huddle's orchestra, to present an don’t miss this joyful, inspirational theatre expe- outstanding interpretation of this 1960s-themed rience which closes on February 11. entertaining show.

On arrival, audience members are invited to Based on the movie directed by Steven join cast members onstage in The Jungle pub Spielberg, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom for a chat and complimentary glass of beer. This Hanks, Catch Me If You Can is purportedly conviviality is so pleasantly orderly and low key autobiographical. that I wondered how the show would get going.

The story tells of young con artist/impersonWow! It sure did. With patrons seated and ator Frank Abagnale Jr (Jordan Poyser) using lights up, the four-piece band positioned on a charm to fool many people in various situations, platform above the bar commenced their musi- and enjoying an elusive cat and mouse game cal smorgasbord, from pub anthems and folk with FBI agent Carl Hanratty (Aidan Niarros) melodies, to Broadway hits and rock classics. A and his team. show-stopper is The Voice.

Charismatic triple threat Jordan Poyser comNine multi-talented, down-to-earth blokes manded the stage with his presence in the lead from the UK generously share their remarkable role, beautifully capturing young Frank’s variacting, vocal, dance and instrumental skills to ous emotions during his adventures, and makconvey stories of the importance of pubs – places ing the role his own. where men have somewhere to go, where they Niarros’s portrayal of Carl Hanratty can joke, talk, share problems and, most of all, wasAidan also terrific, weaving showmanship into his celebrate friendship and life.

The men also share their own real-life sto- antagonist role and delighting audiences.

All cast members were standouts in their inries, and discuss serious topics such as suicide prevention and view diminishing pubs as sad dividual performances. The remaining lead roles casualities of time. In contrast, there’s fun audi- were played by Emily McKenzie (Paula Abignale) and Peter Noble (FrankAbignale Sr), ence participation.

Band members include Angus Burchall Emilie Toby (Frank’s girlfriend Brenda Strong), (drums), Kyla Matsuura-Miller (violin), Marcus Courtney Smyth and Lee Threadgold (Carol and Roger Strong), Jesse Thomas (Agent Cod), Kurban (guitar) and Craig Newman (bass).

The Narrator (Poet) who introduces the char- Guada Banez (Agent Branton) and Ben Nobleacters, was portrayed at the performance I at- Saroto (Agent Dollar).

The energetic, talented ensemble members tended by Alistair Higgins (in other shows by were a joy to watch, particularly when executConnor Going), and the Romantic was played ing Mackenzie and Mitchell’s vibrant, refreshby Bradley Walwyn (Jordan Donnelly).

Matthew Campbell (Maestro), Rob Godfrey ing choreography.

Many behind-the-scenes contributors listed (Beast), Nathaniel Morrison (Barman), Aled Pennock (Bore), Will Silver (Hardman), Chris- in the programme are to be congratulated, but in tian Tyler-Wood (Joker) and Ethan Vijn (Handy- particular, Daniel Jow’s atmospheric lighting man) with his spectacular tap routines, repre- design, Marcello Lo Ricco’s sound, and the cossent this exceptional group of individuals who tumes from CLOC Musical Theatre with addiengage and entertain their audience for 90 min- tions by Brett Wingfield, which ranged from era-authentic day-wear to stunning theatrical utes .

Direct from a season in London’s West End, glamour.

Thanks PLOS Musical Productions for a created by Nic Doodson (also director) and Andrew Kay, successes enjoyed by this hard-work- memorable, wonderful production. ing group are well-deserved, as are the standing - Review by Cheryl Threadgold ovations and resounding applause received from Melbourne audiences.

Performance Season: Until February 11 ■ UK music specialist Andrew Moore has been Venue: Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne - Review by Cheryl Threadgold appointed as the new Director of Programming of the MSO. Currently based in Scotland, Moore has held various roles at Edinburgh International Fes■ PLOS Musical Productions' shows are leg- tival for the past decade, including Head of Muendary for their strong and effective use of tech- sic since 2017. He will commence his new role nology, but the production of Catch Me If You with the MSO in April.

Can - The Musical at Frankston Arts Centre, MSO Managing Director Sophie Galaise excelled equally in all areas. says she was looking forward to welcoming Innovative, clever technology merged with a Andrew Moore to the MSO team. top cast of musical theatre performers, fabulous Recently completing his11th Edinburgh Inchoreography (Mark Mackenzie and Michael ternational Festival, Moore says he is excited Mitchell), sharp, expert direction and scenic to be starting a new year with the MSO in 2024.

New director

Catch Me If You Can

What’s On Very Naughty

■ A Very Naughty Christmas is advertised as a show that will ‘spice things up’; this show is definitely spicy, surprising, super fun.

With a cast of eight, a live three person band, parody of well known songs plus stories that question the traditional, a vibrant , entertaining evening is ensured.

Nothing is off limits. Performances are polished, each performer with their own character their own ‘niche’.

There were some standouts, yet everyone played their part well. The women were definitely the better singers –particularly the fabulous Jordan Twigg.

Whilst all the girls could sing she was the starlet as was evident from her applause on the night mid-song . The men were weaker singers yet made up for it with their dance moves , comedy, stage presence. Shay Debney a standout as Santa’s elf.

This is a variety show with singing, dancing, comedy routines, story telling, audience participation, and almost full nudity. Lots to laugh at, plenty to make the 90 minutes memorable.

The music was all well known, the lyrics changed to suit the theme for each routine.

They used levels, the whole theatre, clever use of space. It was fast paced, without a dull moment.

Co- creators Alex Woodward and Dan Venz have put together a very witty, clever show, perfect for those who like to have fun in the festive season , or who are not easily offended nor mind raunchy humour.

They make many statements about political correctness, their view on the first Christmas story, their ‘take’ on all things Christmas. Some of the comedy was predictable especially during the story telling, yet was fitting.

Woodward Production’s AVery Naughty Christmas is a very naughty , over 18, uniquely Australian show that for me could easily become an annual tradition.

Presented at The Alex Theatre, St Kilda.

- Review by Elizabeth Semmel

Malevo

■ Malevo, which had a short season at the State Theatre, Arts Centre Melbourne, lived up to its claim to be an “electrifying dance spectacular” with the all-male troupe of Argentinian dancers, drummers and musicians receiving a standing ovation on opening night.

Based on the malambo, an Argentinian folk dance traditionally performed by gauchos of the Pampas region, director choreographer and dancer Matias Jaime has modernized the traditional form in an inspired and intoxicating fashion.

From the very opening percussion piece using drums only to the final rousing dance sequence showcasing the whole ensemble, the audience was taken on an exhilarating rollercoaster of a ride.

Malevo was not purely malambo in style as elements of flamenco and urban beats and movements were also incorporated into an evening consisting of a number of set pieces showcasing, in turn, individual dancers, groups of dancers or the band of musicians.

Some of the show’s most spine-tingling moments came when dancers performed with spinning boleadoras, a leather and stone gaucho hunting tool.

First spun by a solitary individual, then in a duet with a second dancer, then slowly building into small groups of dancers doing coropregon (call-and-response) pieces, the audience was mesmerized by the ensemble’s breathtaking display of virtuosity in terms of skills and timing.

At other times zapateados (stomping) and cepaillados (brushing or scrubbing) movements were done with great alacrity and zest, all accompanied by guttural cries of passion.

Nevertheless, there were moments in certain set pieces which bordered on caricature, when the stylized movements and macho posturing threatened to spill Malevo over into a South American pastiche of Riverdance or of a Jets versus Sharks stand-off from West Side Story.

Fortunately, such moments quickly passed as individuals or the ensemble as a whole grounded themselves by returning to the malambo.

A wonderful evening’s entertainment then which delivered both an insight into Argentinian culture and which left audiences buzzing with excitement.

- Review by Peter Murphy

Page 24 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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Local Theatre Shows

■ Geelong Repertory Theatre: Farragut North (by Beau Willimon) February 3 – 17 at the Woodbin Theatre, 15 Coronation St., Geelong West. Director: Jules Hart. Bookings: Geelong Arts Centre 1300 251 200 geelongartscentre.org.au ■ Windmill Theatre Company: Noises Off (Michael Frayne) February 7 – 11 at Bunjil Place Studio, Narre Warren. Director: Ben Dowthwaite. Bookings: windmilltheatre. com.au ■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Photograph 51 (by Anna Ziegler) February 7 – 24 at Williamstown Little Theatre, 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Natasha Boyd. Bookings: wlt.org.au/book-tickets ■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Piece of Mind (by Emma Wood) February 8 – 24 at the Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre, Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Susan Rundle.

Bookings: lilydaleatc.com ■ Playhouse Players Inc: 21st Year National Playwright – Three Finalist One Act Plays: Behold the AI, Guilty and Seminal Chaos: Performances and Awards February 15-17 at Doncaster Playhouse. Bookings/ Information trybooking.com/CMBZP or playhouseplayersinc@gmail.com ■ Brighton Theatre Company: Love Song (by John Kolvenbach) February 16 – March 2 at the Bayside Arts and Cultural Centre, Carpenter St., Brighton. Director: Gaetano Santo and Jeff Saliba. Bookings: brightontheatre.com.au ■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Rumors (by Neil Simon) February 16 – March 2) at Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Gayle Poor. Bookings: www.htc.org.au ■ Malvern Theatre Company: The Lifespan of a Fact (by Jeremy Karaken, David Murrell and Gordon Farrell) February 16 to March 2 at Malvern Theatre, 29 Burke Rd., Malvern. Director: Deborah Fabbro.

Bookings: malverntheatre.com.au ■ Eltham Little Theatre: Yes, Prime Minister (by Antony Jay and Jonathon Lynn) February 16 – March 2 at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Rd., Research. Director: Samuel Chappel. Bookings: elthamlittletheatre.org.au ■ Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria (GSOV): Lilac Time (by Franz Schubert) February 17 -March 3 at The Knowe, Sassafras. Bookings: gsov.org.au ■ The 1812 Theatre: Mother and Son (original script by Geoffrey Atherden) February 22 – March 16 at The Lowe Auditorium, Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Pip Le Blonde. Bookings: 1812theatre.sales. ticketsearch. com/ ■ The Basin Theatre Group: Hatched, Matched and Dispatched (by Chris Hodson) February 22 – March 3 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Laell Raiteri. Bookings: thebasintheatre.org.au ■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): Madagascar (by J.T. Rogers) February 22 – March 2 at Strathmore Community Theatre, 50 Loeman St., Strathmore.

Director: Luisa Romeo) Bookings: 0419 591 517.

■ PEP Productions: Eurovision Moldova (by Craig Christie) February 23 – March 1 at Doncaster Playhouse. Bookings: pepproductions.org.au ■ The Mount Players: Wild (by Mike Bartlett) February 23 – March 10 at The Mount View Theatre, 56 Smith St., Mt Macedon. Director: George Benca. Bookings: themountplayers.com ■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: And Then There were None (by Agatha Christie) February 29 – March 8 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Director: Travis Handcock. Bookings: 9556 4440 or kingstonarts.com.au/upcoming-events/allevents/mordialloc-theatre-company ■ Beaumaris Theatre: A Year With Frog and Toad (book and lyrics by Willie Reale, Music Robert Reale, Based on the books by Arnold Lobel), March 1 – 16 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Leah Osburn. Bookings: beaumaristheatre. com.au ■ Essendon Theatre Company: A Tomb with a View (by Norman Robbins) March 14 – 23 at 9 Bradshaw St. (enter from Buckley St.), Essendon. Bookings: 0406448368 or Trybooking.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 25

Entertainment

Jazz Men full of verve ● Davy Harris (left), Cameron Davey, Bek Chapman, Dean Schulz, Jesse Mattherws, Benito Veneziano in Jazz Men. Photo: Robert Cuzens ■ Jazz Men, which had a very brief season at with a twist, petrons will enjoy Aretha, Joni, the Athenaeum Theatre, was full of verve and Streisand, Ella and Eva Cassidy. Wankernomics passion but ultimately disappointed due to some returns when they undress bureaucracy in the poor choreography unevenly executed by an en- raw. Melbourne Writers' Theatre's feisty revosemble of dancers of different skill levels. lutionary Jennie throws us onto 1920’s Port Promoted as a dynamic dance revue, the Melbourne streets. show consisted of a number of vignettes and set Queer Playwriting Award Showcase will pieces of choreography involving either the present first-staged readings of top four finalwhole ensemble of 13 performers or smaller ists. IlbijerriTheatre Company promises nonsubgroups of the 13; occasionally soloists took stop laughs with Goodbye Aunty Flo. the spotlight.

The Sciencewits, Captain Chaos and Science Each piece was set to taped music from a Sam, appear again during April holidays with range of different genres such as swing, eight- another ‘explosive’ interactive show. Kids can ies rock and disco, to name just three. The whole also interact with Polyglot's giant Ants. For cirwas strung together by the evening’s emcee, cus arts see Circus Trick Tease, Go/No Go, Red vocalist Bek Chapman, who performed sev- Canvas and Highwire Entertainment. eral songs solo or in a duet.

Gastronomic delights at Gasworks Café. OrThroughout the evening there was no dis- der a gateaux for your golden retriever, German cernible main theme tying the vignettes together, Rex, or even pet guinea pig. notwithstanding the title of Jazz Men. Open seven days a week. Pick up a season This was unfortunate as the show cried out guide from the Park for the full 2024 program. for a stronger structure; as it was, it felt like a Ramp entrance at main gate, Graham St, Albert random scattering of half-shaped thoughts and Park. ideas for entertainment.

- Sherryn Danaher The show felt very much like a rough first draft that was being given a trial run in front of an audience.

And, even though it was enthusiastically re- ■ “What’s special about it?” asks my 12-yearceived by a very user-friendly audience, there old grandson, before committing to accepting a is still some way to go to get several shortcom- ticket to A Midsummer Night’s Dream in Melbourne’s glorious Botanical Gardens. ings ironed out.

Rather than try to explain that the play is These shortcomings showed in a number of different ways: dancers did spot lit solos but about love as a complex metaphoric catalyst wandered out of the spot; the choreography fell for conflict, chaos, and comedy, I merely smile into cliched moves; dancers were out of synch and reply, “ Absolutely everything."

In fact, to partially quote Shakespeare via with either the music or fellow dancers or both.

Still, there were some wonderful show-stop- the The Maltese Falcon, "This is the stuff that ping moments during the evening when every- dreams are made of.”

Glen Elston’s current production is the most thing came together and great dancers enthralled the audience with sensuous moves set to the complete tribute to Shakespeare’s comedies that I can remember. pulsating beats of musical hits.

Love’s human frailties are exposed through Overall then something of a mixed bag. The revue needs much further work, in both writing all manner of dramatic skills and entertainment and rehearsal, for it to come together and realise – clarity of meaning, song, dance, gymnastics, physical fights, poetry, witty links to current poliits full potential.

Jazz Men will next be presented at the tics, magic and ubiquitous “trends”.

I would need to list all crew, cast and direcGeelong Performing Arts Centre in early March.

- Review by Peter Murphy tors to be fair to this production; sadly I don’t have room. But please look them all up at A Midsummer Night’s Dream Under the Stars, for this is a superbly balanced romp by a superb ■ Hearts were gladdened to be going forward interdependent theatrical team, with full trust in into a new year when graced with a gala night at each other’s talents and timing.

Sound, lights, technical effects, set, costumes, the launch of Gasworks Arts Park 2024 season.

It was aglow with excitement as glimpses choreography, directors, music, performers, FoH were grabbed of the glamour, gaiety, glitz and all take a bow.

If spirits do hang around out there, most surely gusto at this truly great indoor and outdoor venue.

It’s a gift to Melbourne’s arts community. A the Bard was smiling broadly somewhere just golden gateway into local and globally ac- above us in our picnic chairs as he saw his most claimed artists with opportunities galore for famous comedy brought to glorious life by a team celebrating the wonderful 35th year of this iconic emerging artists.

International prizewinners Affinity Quartet Australian Shakespeare Company’s Botanigave a galvanising live taste of their upcoming cal Gardens productions, under the magical mix August concert. of stage lighting, coupled with nature’s clouds All encompassing, Gasworks Arts Park fos- and shadows, and on human built staging surters visual and performing arts, special events rounded by nature’s own set of trees and shrubs. and exhibitions. Summer in the Glade is a free As ever, you are invited to take along your monthly event offering an art and craft market, picnic. Front rows with beach chairs start at food trucks, drinks and live music. $100 with children only $35. Then work back Studios of 15 artists in residence welcome through rent-a-chair down to take-a-blanket. visitors on the third Saturday in the month, enThis is the most delicious family entertaincircled by the thriving Gasworks Farmers Mar- ment that Melbourne offers this holiday; don’t ket. miss it.

In February, the Barcelona-based Until February 17. Royal Botanic Gardens Flamencodanza duo will entertain with their Melbourne - Southern Cross Lawn contemporary dance/guitar show.

Bookings: Australian Shakespeare Company In Queenie van de Zandt ‘s ground-break- or 8676 7511. Bookings essential. ing smartphone driven, female-focused cabaret - Review by Maggie Morrison

Midsummer Night

Gasworks Art Park

Observations Candide

● Lyndon Watts ■ While late composer Leonard Bernstein’s name is synonymous with his hit musical West Side Story, there is another musical creation from this great man of music that is causing much excitement in Melbourne theatrical circles.

It’s called Candide, and is best described as an operetta, lying somewhere between opera and music theatre.

Its story is taken from 18th century French philosopher and writer Voltaire. This is Victorian Opera production for 2024, which will run at St Kilda’s Palais Theatre, for just three nights, Thursday February 8 until Saturday February 10.

It follows the story of hero Candide and his trye love Cunegonde, through a world peopled with characters who show the seedy side of human nature.

Candide is the eternal optimist, believing that this is the best of all possible worlds, so his journey injects some reality into his views on life.

While his road twists and turns, it does end happily, and this new production features award-winning star from the musical Hamilton, Lyndon Watts, and music theatre royalty Eddie Perfect.

They lead an Australian cast of household names in the world of opera and music theatre, including Maria Mercedes,Alexander Lewis Eddie Muliaumaseali’I, Katherine Allen and Euan Fistrovic Doidge.

With a creative team led by Maestro Benjamin Northey with Orchestra Victoria and director Dean Bryant, Melbourne audiences are in for a treat with this lesser known but much-loved work from the pen of Bernstein.

Performances are 7.30 pm at the Palais Theatre from February 8-10, and bookings can be can made at victorianopera.com.au - Julie Houghton

Shows

■ Torquay Theatre Troupe: Sylvia (by A. R. Gurney) March 14 – 23 at Shoestring Playhouse @ The MAC, 77 Beach Rd., Torquay.

Director: Paul Friend. Bookings: Trybooking.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

Auditions

■ F.A.M.D.A.: The Architect (by Aiden Fennessey) February 4, 2024 at 10.00am at the Foster War Memorial Arts Centre, 79 Main St., Foster. Director: Bernadette Grainger. Audition bookings: 0439 394 704.

■ The 1812 Theatre: The Sweet Delilah Swim Club (by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten) February 11, 12 in the Foyer of The 1812 Theatre, 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Amy Calvert.

Audition enquiries/bookings: aj267@outlook.com ■ The Mount Players: Looped (by Matthew Lombardo) February 18 from 2pm at the Mount View Theatre, 56 Smith St., Mt Macedon. Director: Peter Newling: Audition bookings: themountplayers.com ■ Wyndham Theatre Company: 2024 WOMPA Short Play Festival ‘Waiting for a Friend’, February 24 from 3pm at the Crossroads Theatre, Duncans Rd and Synott St., Werribee. Audition bookings: w y n d h a m t h e a t r e c o m p a n y. o rg . a u / new-contact-us - Cheryl Threadgold

Page 26 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 27

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Magazine

Entertainment

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING

■ The Australian Shakespeare Company is back with its romantic, funny adaptation of the Shakespearian classic Much Ado About Nothing, being presented from February 23 to March 17 in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne.

Performed as open-air theatre, the play will be a fusion of rock imagery, pop music, sitcom and pantomime.

Australian Shakespeare Company Artistic Director Glenn Elston says: “Our adaptation of Much Ado About Nothing is for everyone, not just Shakespeare lovers.

“We’ve arranged a pop-musical score inspired by the play’s original text, and matched it with costumes and staging that are very 2024.

That’s my favourite thing about Shakespeare - even hundreds of years later, his work is still so relevant to this day.”

Audiences are encouraged to pack a picnic and bring family and friends.

Performance Details: February 23 - March 17 Venue: The Southern Cross Lawn - Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Melbourne Gardens, 100 Birdwood Avenue, South Yarra.

Prices: $25-$115.

Bookings: www.shakespeare australia.com.au 8676 7511 Via Ticketmaster Tickets can be purchased on site approx. one hour before show time, subject to availability.

Running time: 2 hours 20 minutes (incl. 20 minute interval) - Cheryl Threadgold

Hate Race

■ The Hate Race is being presented at Malthouse, in the Beckett Theatre, from February 23 - March 17.

Inspired by the best-selling, awardwinning memoir by Caribbean-Australian writer Maxine Beneba Clarke, The Hate Race explores the complexities of race in Australia, and the universal search for belonging.

Making its theatrical premiere on the Malthouse stage, The Hate Race stars Zahra Newman (Wake In Fright), who is said to embody all characters from the book with honesty and theatricality.

The Hate Race follows Maxine’s childhood in Sydney’s western suburbs, as she navigates the sting of otherness. From everyday street encounters to schoolyard battles, Maxine’s story exposes the realities of growing up the child of Black migrants in a predominantly White society.

Audiences are invited to experience Maxine's world - exposing biases, challenging societal norms, and asking us to foster empathy and understanding as we seek an inclusive future.

Performance Season: February 23 - March 17. Venue: Malthouse, Beckett Theatre, 113 Sturt St., Southbank. Bookings: malthouse theatre.com.au

4Peace Band

■ The 4Peace Band returns to the Mentone RSL on Friday, February 16 from 7.30pm.

Enjoy and dance to the 4Peace Band playing favourites from the 60s, 70s, 80s and more.

Event Details: Friday, February 16 at 7.30pm Venue: Mentone RSL, 9 Palermo St., Mentone.

Dinner Bookings: 9583 2841 Free Entry. ● Starring in Much Ado About Nothing

Midsumma

■ The Midsumma Festival 2024 continues until February 11.

Events include the dark comedy Ruff Trade at the Motley Bauhaus, Carlton, until February 10; Vau d'vile Vixens - a night of drag entertainment until February 9 in the Vau d'vile Showroom, Fitzroy; and the comedy show Hufflepoof presented by Dirk Strachan-Thornton until February 10 at the Speakeasy Theatre, Flinders St, Melbourne.

Midsumma is Australia's premier LGBTQIA+ arts and cultural organisation.

Sharing the lived experiences of voices at the margins, expressions of queer history, and the celebration of new ideas and stories that come to life through art and performance.

The full program for the Midsumma Festival 2024 can be found at midsumma.org.au - Cheryl Threadgold

Rumors

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company presents the farce Rumors from February 16 - March 2 at 36 Turnham Avenue, Rossana.

Written by Neil Simon and directed

by Gayle Poor, Rumors tells of Ken and Chris Gorman arriving for a 10th anniversary party, at the home of their friend Charlie Brock – New York's Deputy Mayor – and his wife Myra.

They soon discover the servants are gone, the hostess is missing, and the deputy mayor has just tried to shoot himself.

Soon more guest couples arrive and comic complications escalate when they decide to do everything possible to conceal the evening’s events.

Performance Season: February 16 - March 2 at 8pm (2pm matinees February 17, 18, 24, 25) Venue: Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna Bookings and Performance Times: htc.org.au - Cheryl Threadgold

Playwright Competition

■ Playhouse Players Inc. presents the 21st National Playwright Competition from February 15-17 at the Doncaster Playhouse.

This milestone competition event for original One Act plays will see three finalist plays vying for cash awards, with actors awaiting People's Choice Awards, voted by audiences during the performances.

Four premiere performances culminate in the award ceremony conducted by Andrew Burns, who was an original director back at the beginning in 2000.

The finalist plays include: Guilty (written by Eugenia Kozlevcar, directed by Bernadette Maria) - an unhappily married woman comes up with a plan to free herself from her husband; Behold the AI (by Harry Kolotas, directed by Graeme McCoubrie) - Amazon delivers a human in a box for the pleasure of two Androids - hopefully; Seminal Chaos (by Willa Hogarth, directed by Callum Dale) - a husband's sperm donation surprises his wife as the donor 'sons' arrive.

Event details: February 15-17 Venue: Doncaster Playhouse, 679 Doncaster Rd., Doncaster All details including times and booking: www.trybooking.com/ CMBZP. Further information: playhouseplayersinc@gmail.com - Cheryl Threadgold

Comedy Fest

■ The Melbourne International Comedy Festival returns in 2024 with a showcase of 261 performances across five theatres to deliver 22 nights of comedy entertainment.

Running from March 28 to April 21, Comedy Festival at the recently renovated Malthouse will utilise the upgraded indoor and outdoor facilities to present comedy in a setting of comfort and style.

Comedy Festival at Malthouse runs March 28 – April 21 .

Further details: malthouse theatre.com.au/discover/2024-comedy-festival-at-malthouse/ - Cheryl Threadgold

Rourke’s Reviews Welcome to 2024

■ A big welcome back to all our readers, as 2024 gets underway.

With Oscar nominations now announced, this year will be a very interesting for film.

Here are some of the movies I saw during the break.

Dream Scenario (MA). ****.

Nicolas Cage is excellent in this growingly unsettling dark comedy from the director of Sick Of Myself.

Thanksgiving (R). **. Eli Roth expands his trailer from the 2007 cult classic Grindhouse into a feature film, with typically gory and tiresome results.

Wish (PG). **½. Watchable if utterly forgettable Disney film which celebrates 100 years of Disney animation. Plays it way too safe, but Ariana DeBose does offer charming voice work.

12.12 : The Day. **½. Very entertaining and compelling thriller based on the military coup which occurred in South Korea in 1979 after the President was assassinated. Some facts have been changed, but this is good stuff.

Napoleon (MA). **½. Extremely choppy account of the famed military commander, with too many plot points and characters never given satisfying screen time. Ridley Scott’s director’s cut, which is around 4½ hours, may eliminate many of these flaws.

Maestro (M). ***½. Bradley Cooper follows up his solid directorial debut with an invigorating look at conductor Leonard Bernstein.

Doesn’t work as a biopic, but does as a passionate account of Bernstein’s love for music, and its affects on everyone around him.

Godzilla : Minus One (M). ****½. Exceptional entry in the long-running franchise, perfectly blending the highly allegorical creature mayhem with engrossing human drama. Strong performances and great effects.

Silent Night (MA). ****. Iconic action film-maker John Woo returns with this unusual action/drama, a tale of revenge which features no dialogue. Not everything works, but it offers something different, and Woo’s action scenes are bloodily impressive.

Wonka (PG). ****. After the Johnny Depp atrocity, this prequel to the Gene Wilder classic is a lovely surprise; a buoyant and beautifully designed film that also contains some delightful musical numbers. From the makers of the Paddington films.

The Boy And The Heron (PG). ****. Hayao Miyazaki returns with this enthralling animated fantasy/ drama, again centring the action on a child, who has to deal with

particular hardships and obstacles.

An absolute treat.

It’s A Wonderful Knife (MA). **. A clever reworking of the James Stewart favourite is left wanting in this disappointing, ultimately routine horror/comedy.

The Beekeeper (MA). **. Very 80’s treatment of a worrying, modern problem, this should have been more riveting and entertaining than what it is, with David Ayer going his standard directorial approach, not helped by an awful script.

Priscilla (M). **. Sofia Coppola again returns to her familiar themes of gender suffocation and empty existence, using Priscilla’s marriage to Elvis this time as a foundation, but again never fleshes her script out in a satisfactory manner.

DogMan (MA). ***. Luc Besson returns to the director’s chair for this odd, generally engrossing thriller that features a strong central performance from Caleb Landry Jones. Not a remake of the excellent 2018 film.

There’s Something In The Barn (M). **. What should have been fun, Gremlins-like viewing is instead a dull, needlessly protracted bore, as angry elves make a newly arrived family’s life hell.

All Of Us Strangers (MA). ****½. Director Andrew Haigh ’s new film is mesmerising, using alternate realities and timelines to take its lead character on a very emotional journey. The director’s best film to date.

Migration (PG). **. Hollow animated film is a clunky collection of mostly unfunny sketches, rather than a competent, feature length narrative. The animation is fine, the voice actors try their best, but the results are subpar.

May December (MA). ****.

Todd Haynes, working from a script which uses a real life story as inspiration, expertly creates a darkly funny, but ultimately unsettling and sad, look at predatory behaviour.

First-rate acting from a strong cast.

Next Goal Wins (PG). **. An unfortunate misfire from director Taika Waititi, taking a real life story and making something which fails to engage or entertain. Michael Fassbender tries, but is miscast.

Ninja vs Shark (MA). **½.

Completely silly, but falls just on the right side of fun, as a disgraced ninja helps a terrorised fishing village take on a large shark. Performances are better than expected, and the CGI effects are predictably goofy.

Foe (MA). *½. Co-writer/director Garth Davis (Lion) takes an intriguing premise (based on a bestselling book), and totally botches it, and wastes two talented actors, especially Saoirse Ronan, who delivers her first unconvincing performance.

- Aaron Rourke

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Places To Go

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Places To Go

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Magazine Melbourne

Observer Lovatts Crossword No 26

Across

Across

1. Hair-stylist 6. Straight-line racing car 11. Famous Indian mausoleum (3,5) 15. Nightclub dancer 20. ... kwon do 21. Labyrinths 22. Aegean or Caspian 23. Lahore is there 24. Mad Russian monk 25. NE Scottish seaport 27. Jumbo animal 28. Watering tube 29. Fixed gaze 31. World fair 32. Cruel person 36. Pins & ...

37. Prolong (4,3) 38. Checks (text) for errors 41. Renovate (ship) 44. Metal bar 45. Unfortunately 48. Sneeze noise (1-6) 49. Oddball 52. Rectangular 56. Addressing crowd 57. Anxious (2,4) 58. Perfumed burning stick 61. Goat's wool 62. Economises, ... & saves 63. Fibbing 64. Naomi Campbell is one 65. Imperial ruler 66. Collided with (3,4) 67. Disincentive 71. Absurd comedy 73. Of the ear 75. Windbag 80. Clarify, ... light on 82. Hone 83. Disobey 85. Gauges 86. Befuddles 88. Labourer's tools, pick & ...

90. Welcomes 91. British coin 93. Taking sides 94. Climbing plants 95. Female voices 96. Wither 97. Tingle 99. Mark as correct 100. Holy places 104. Rubbish 105. School maxim 106. Track down 107. Sent via Internet 111. The other way around, vice ...

113. Observe 114. The masses, ... polloi 115. Disorderly 117. Smear 118. Affirmative replies 121. Russian spirit 122. Mustard & ...

125. Canine disease 126. Shaving cut 127. Roman dress 129. Pulpy, soft food 131. Yoga master 132. Apprehension 135. Feng ...

136. Unplaced competitor (4-3) 139. Wild party 140. Representatives 144. Strangely 145. Scandinavian 146. Wall painting 147. Underwriters 148. Glared

149. Gallows rope 150. Group of eight 152. Hang loosely 154. Flog 157. Fluid unit 158. Minutest 162. Iran's neighbour 163. Exhausts supply of (4,2) 166. Porridge cereal 167. Pour with rain 169. Slow down!

171. Car pioneer, Karl ...

172. Tobacco user 173. Leers 175. Lever (off) 176. Single 179. Swiss banking centre 180. Come to rest (3,2) 182. Liqueur, ... Maria 183. Towards stern 184. Blackboard stand 186. Negative 189. Harness-racing horse 190. Return (of symptoms) 191. Epic movie-maker, Cecil B De ...

192. Big Apple city (3,4) 196. 60s pop dance (2-2) 197. Dad 198. Heedful 199. Spend extravagantly 201. Not fit for consumption 202. Gloomier 203. Performing 204. Car-top luggage frame (4,4) 205. Worked hard 208. Guidance 210. Up to this time 211. Aquatic bird 212. Pragmatism 213. Vein of ore 215. Vending machine 219. Nimble 221. Small & efficient 223. Striped brown gem (5'1,3) 227. Biology or physics 228. Mummifies (corpse) 230. Donations 231. Scorch 232. Charts (course) (4,3) 233. Villain 234. Arrogant newcomer 238. Power outlet 239. Knit with hooked needle 240. Scratch 243. Eagle nests 246. Ancestry 247. Lease again 250. Naming words 251. Greek philosopher 253. Muddles (up) 256. Frequent visitor 257. Mischievous 258. Character 262. Manufacture 263. Florida's Key ...

266. Is in debt to 268. Citrus fruit 269. Surgical removal 270. Not enclosed (of land) 271. Ruling (monarch) 272. Decimal unit 273. Opinion surveys 274. Corroded, ... away at 275. Slyer 276. Supervised 277. Perseveres 278. Least

Down 1. Manages 2. Annoyed 3. Abstains from food 4. Salt Lake City state 5. Absconded (3,3) 7. Severely simple 8. Seedy conditions 9. Discharge 10. Talk wildly 11. Muscle rupture 12. Fire-resistant material 13. Of war 14. Country dance 15. Leaked slowly 16. Aura 17. Windscreen cleaner 18. Rocky Mountains state 19. Early guitars 24. Tenant's fee 26. Fish traps 30. Quarrel 33. Document bag, ... case 34. Evoke 35. Cavalryman 38. Triangular-sided building 39. Constantly busy (2,3,2) 40. Learn (4,3) 42. Great ages 43. Charges with crime 46. Furiously 47. Beliefs 49. Properly nourished (4-3) 50. Frostier 51. Stray 53. Bewails 54. More mature 55. Biblical sea 59. Oil paintings 60. Skittles 67. Lowers (oneself) 68. Fishing boat 69. Ex-pupils' get-together 70. Invigorate 72. Residential locations 74. Score after deuce 76. Exposed 77. French N-Test region, ... Atoll 78. Rude 79. Pestered 81. Cargo door 84. Unnerves 87. Strong coffee 89. Nonconformists 91. Primitive 92. Japan's second largest city 98. Recording room 101. Restrict (3,2) 102. Asian cricketing nation 103. Flattened 108. Countless number 109. Saturate (with colour) 110. Turn inside-out 112. Remembered 116. Carpenters 119. Brightening up 120. Proper behaviour 123. Now Zimbabwean 124. Set apart 128. News-sheet 130. Ill-bred 132. Unfulfilled

Down

133. Inaccuracy 134. Songs for one 137. Actress, ... Sarandon 138. Scoundrel 141. Heredity units 142. Cosy corners 143. Clean with broom 151. Household jobs 153. Riddle 155. Hot & moist 156. Lower leg joint 159. Revealed (knowledge) 160. Foolishness 161. Inducting, ... in 164. Too soon 165. Open wound 168. Alienate 170. Unfashionable 173. Reverse 174. Giving university talk 177. Soundly constructed (4-5) 178. Worsened (of crisis) 181. Leaves uncared-for 185. Permitting 186. Liked 187. Retailers 188. Football umpire 193. Sun or rain 194. Acorn bearer (3,4) 195. Sing-along entertainment 200. Prayer beads 201. Official emblems 206. ... & lemons 207. Wear best clothes (5,2) 208. Human rights group, ... International 209. Modesty 211. Large pedal 214. Moral 216. Dip in liquid 217. Capers 218. Numerals 220. Conclude 222. Toadstools 224. Great joy 225. Questionable 226. Junior 229. Fully satisfy 232. Liquefy 235. Actress, ... Cruz 236. Straighter 237. Reaction 241. Changing booth 242. Picasso & Monet 244. Library patrons 245. Belongings, personal ...

248. More meagre 249. You 251. Walk with heavy steps 252. Turns away 253. Imitate 254. Father Christmas 255. Praise highly 259. Divine messenger 260. Combine 261. Roman VIII 262. Small tick 264. Unknown writer 265. Swallow noisily 267. Appear

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Magazine Crossroads

By Rob Foenander info@robfomusic.com.au

Clayton’s single

■ Local singer songwriter Clayton Saunders has released his new track for local and international air play.

Titled Black Sheep, the song is a little ditty about how that particular person may be in our own family or someone else’s but they do exist.

However, they can still be loved but perhaps kept at a distance as they’re easier to deal with in that way, says Clayton. More info https://claytonsaundersmusic.com

Thanks Country

■ Country artist Craig Lloyd continues on his award-winning song writing journey with his new song Thank You Country.

Co-written with David Carter/Merelyn Carter and Michael Saleta, Craig describes the song as a heartfelt reflection on the feeling he gets each and every time he drives into our country areas along dusty roads, listening to country music, all with the overwhelming feeling of belonging and freedom.

More info: www.craiglloyd.com.au

Judy in Melb.

■ World renowned singer entertainer Judy Collins will perform at Memo Music Hall, St Kilda on Wednesday, March 13. The Grammy Award winner will sing the hits from her career plus include songs by contemporaries such as Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, Jimmy Webb, as well as songs by Judy herself.

Tickets at Trybooking.com - Rob Foenander

PETER MURPHY REVIEWS QUEER AS FLUX

■ Queer as Flux, which had a short season at Theatre Works as part of the 2024 Midsumma Festival, was a courageous show about one person’s journey transitioning from being born a female to their current identity as trans-masculine.

The solo show consisted of Zac Callaghan playing two central characters, Polly Tickle an outrageous drag queen fairy godmother and Stace (previously Stacey), a grownup tomboy.

A range of other minor characters came and went as the audience was taken on a journey consisting of two interwoven themes.

The first theme was Polly speaking to a slideshow of certain key milestones in the development of the LGBTQIA+ movement, from the Stonewall riots in the US and the first Sydney Mardi Gras through the AIDS crisis and to today’s transitioning community.

The second thread was Stace enacting key moments in their journey from female to trans-male.

A strength of the autobiographical script was its simple structure of the public and private themes.

The best, most moving moments were in the writing of the personal intimate details of Zac’s struggle to overcome the challenging and difficult life lived by people whose gender identity conflicts with their sex at birth.

There was more showing of the private story, rather than telling it, something the delivery of the pub-

lic theme would have benefited from as it, at times, felt preachy and didactic.

Holding everything together was Callaghan’s high-energy passionate and committed performance.

Working with director/dramaturg Leah Mercer, Callaghan successfully created the two different worlds in which their story played out.

No small feat given the very different nature of those worlds. However, the night was not without glitches as humorous one-liners and asides to the audience sometimes hit their mark, sometimes felt forced and fell flat, while two whales as minor characters felt odd and out-of-place.

Notwithstanding these reservations, the night was an engaging telling of a story needing to be told.

- Review by Peter Murphy

Home Economics

■ Theatre Works’ production of Declan Greene’s Home Economics presents three short explorations, each a chain in a thought-provoking vignette on power imbalances and desire.

With a set swathed in plastic and disco tinsel and some great music and choreography, this is a show that seems not to take itself too seriously at first.

Sight gags liven up the action,

Crossword Solution No 26 C O I F F E U R D R A G S T E R T A J M A H A L S H O W G I R L O R A T A E U Q M A Z E S A O S E A I D U P A K I S T A N R A S P U T I N A B E R D E E N E L E P H A N T E E T H O S E T A S T A R E T D E X P O E H E S A D I S T F N E E D L E S R S P I N O U T E P R O O F S T N R E F I T R O I N G O T A W S A D L Y N I A T I S H O O N W E I R D O U O B L O N G N O R A T I N G A P O N E D G E C I N C E N S E L A N G O R A H D S C R I M P S I L Y I N G A I M O D E L R E M P E R O R H R E C L E R A N I N T O E I I I G U D E T E R R E N T F A R C E V E A U R A L L O U D M O U T H R E N S H E D S H A R P E N D E F Y N U N A E M E A S U R E S A D D L E S S I S H O V E L E M B R A C E S E W N R T R S P E N N Y E A U A U I S C R E E P E R S S O P R A N O S S H R I V E L A L L Y I N G N E O I T C H S R I S K E T T I C K O I E W A S T E M O T T O T R A C E E M A I L E D S H R I N E S E N V E R S A E S E E U H O I G R O W D Y M V S M U D G E E Y E S E S V O D K A C R E S S O R A B I E S I I N I C K N T O G A I M U S H E Y O G I U R U N E A S E O S H U I A L S O R A N O R G Y D A G E N T S N R O D D L Y A Q Z U O C D R S W E D E O W M U R A L L I N S U R E R S G L O W E R E D O N O O S E O O C T E T C E T A U U S G D R A P E K E E T H R A S H C P I N T T I N I E S T I R A Q K U S E S U P U N O A T S N T E E M D W H O A T B E N Z A L S M O K E R E O G L E S P R I S E U N W E D R Z U R I C H I L E N D U P E T I A O A F T E E A S E L L E A D V E R S E P A C E R R E C U R M I L L E N E W Y O R K D E E G O G O T A T Y I O L P A P A E A A M I N D F U L S Q U A N D E R I N E D I B L E B L A C K E R I D E E I R G D O I N G E U N L T T A R O O F R A C K T O I L E D S S A D V I C E H I T H E R T O E R E T T E R N R E A L I S M L O D E N E E K D I S P E N S E R A G I L E R G N I F T Y T I G E R S E Y E M R U E N N S C I E N C E U N H L U O E M B A L M S A G I F T S E I S I N G E I M A P S O U T E N B A D D I E E U P S T A R T G S O C K E T P N C R O C H E T L S C R A P E R E Y R I E S A L I N E A G E S E R E L E T U R N O U N S E F P L A T O C E M E S S E S E H A B I T U E E P L A Y F U L V N A T U R E I A X M A K E I I L A R G O D E O W E S N N I M A N D A R I N E X C I S I O N U N F E N C E D R E I G N I N G I T L T E N L T P O L L S R T A T E E T H C R A F T I E R O V E R S E E N P E R S I S T S S M A L L E S T

lulling the audience into a false sense of what will unfold.

The production soon reveals bipolar roots as dark themes emerge.

In Sugar, orthodontically-challenged schoolgirl Priscilla (Shani Sobti) has “heaps of feelings”.

Despite running through a list of her top 10 ‘hottest’ boys, Priscilla’s feelings are for one boy, in particular Troy McMahon (Alfie Baker).

Priscilla spends her time imagining their conversations.

In reality, the most Troy says to her is, “Sausage roll, no sauce,” when she works in the school canteen.

Throw in social stigma, shame, and bullying from peers; crushes can be cruel when the object of your crush is not interested.

In Truffles, a sex worker (Sarah Iman) engages in a fraught dinner with a client (Charlie Veitch).

A bruised ego leads to clipped conversations and occasional violence.

Short exchanges flip the power between the two, exposing divisions of privilege, dominance, and control.

In Flour, home economics teacher Mr Lleyland (Edan Goodall) tortures himself with a desire for a student, Phillip (Marko Pecer).

Disturbing and unsettling, this work plays on stereotypes that gay male teachers are a danger to students and that precocious teenag-

ers lead adults to paedophilic acts and are somehow complicit.

Directed by Steph Lee, these three short works pose more questions than they answer.

- Review by Kathryn Keeble

State tour

■ Joe Camilleri and The Black Sorrows have announced a run of shows in Victoria and Tasmania during February and March.

Joe Camilleri has been at the forefront of the Australian music scene for decades as the leader of Jo Jo Zep and The Falcons and The Black Sorrows, and as writer of radio anthems. Joe is also an ARIA Hall of Famer and a rock’n’roll lifer.

Victorian performances are as follows: February 9. Echuca Paramount Theatre February 10. West Gippsland Arts Centre, Warragul February 11 . Burrinja Cultural Centre, Upwey February 16. Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre February 17. Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre, South Morang February 18. Frankston Arts Centre March 15. Horsham Town Hall March 16. Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts, Ballarat March 22. Thornbury Theatre - Cheryl Threadgold

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Mike McColl Jones

Top 5 THE TOP 5 COMMENTS HEARD WHEN THE ROYAL FAMILY TOOK OVER LONDON’S MEDICAL DISTRICT. 5.“Now, that’s what I call the Royal Wee.” 4.“I apologise Your Majesty. Not everything will stand!”.

3.“I hope he remembered to pay his BUPA”.

2. “Please tell the children, this is no place for a Corgi!”

1. The king made it easier for the surgeon by wearing a kilt.

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Page 36 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 37

Magazine

■ I guess if you are born with the name of a famous movie star then it might be a good idea to change it to avoid confusion if you want to become a film star yourself.

In 1938 young James Stewart, who lived in the UK, did exactly that by taking the ‘stage name’ of Stewart Granger, and went on to become one of the famous film stars of the 20th century.

James Lablache Stewart was born in West London in 1913 and his grandmother was an opera singer and his grandfather was an actor.

Young James decided at an early age that he was also going to be an actor. He worked in repertory theatre for many years during the 1930s before being cast in a professional play opposite Lawrence Olivier and Vivien Leigh.

When he was offered a small uncredited role in the film the young actor decided to change his name to Stewart Granger - to avoid being confused with the famous Hollywood actor James Stewart.

But to his friends he was always known as Jimmy’. He married the actress Elspeth March in 1938, the marriage was to last for 10 years and the couple had two children.

During the war years Stewart served in the Gordon Highlanders and then in the Black Watch.

He was invalided out of the Black Watch in 1942 due to stomach ulcers and lived with the guilt of knowing that his entire platoon had been later killed whilst on active service in North Africa.

that he hated all his films and never watched them.

Some of his best films included

Whatever Happened To ...

Stewart Granger

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM The following year Stewart was cast in his first major film role in and worked with James Mason, Phyllis Calvert and Margaret Lockwood.

It was in this film that he learned not to project his voice as he had done onstage but to speak quietly and naturally whilst on camera.

He became friends with James Mason and described him as one of his closest friends, a wonderful actor and a humble and wonderful man.

In 1948 Stewart and Elspeth were divorced.

He continued to make films in England and in 1950 signed a seven-year contract with MGM studios in Hollywood.

Stewart moved to the US and made the film .

● Stewart Granger He married British actress Jean Simmons in a bizarre wedding ceremony organised by the film producer Howard Hughes. His friend Michael Wilding was best man.

At this stage Stewart was a tall handsome man in his late 30s. He looked good in tights, could handle a sword and was cast in many of the MGM period films during the early 1950s. He starred opposite Jean Simmons in several films including in 1953. Stewart would later say

and .

In 1956 Stewart Granger became a naturalised American citizen. His marriage to Jean Simmons ended in divorce in 1960 and four years later he married Caroline LeCerf.

Stewart continued to make films during the 1970s and was cast as a regular character in the television series .

In 1978 he starred in opposite Richard Burton, Roger Moore and Richard Harris.

In 1981 he published his autobiography .

Stewart Granger died of prostate cancer in 2003 in Santa Monica, California, at the age of 83. He starred in more than 60 films and always seemed to have a great screen presence and a wicked sense of humour Kevin Trask Kevin can be heard on 3AW The Time Tunnel - Remember When Sundays at 10.10pm with Philip Brady and Simon Owens.

And on 96.5 FM That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon. www.innerfm.org.au

NORTH-EAST VIC. ARTISTIC TALENTS CELEBRATED

Showcase – 2023 Senior Art and Design. Student Exhibition This annual exhibition celebrates the artistic talents of Benalla and North East Victorian senior Art and Design students.

Showcase provides students from across the region the opportunity for artistic recognition in a public art place.

Representative of a range of media and topics this exhibition highlights the creativity and diverse talents of young and emerging artists within the community.

Exhibition opened January 26 and closes February 26.

BenallaArt Gallery Botanical Gardens Bridge St, Benalla

The Arts

March at Shrine

Kingston Arts

with Peter Kemp

Artists in Residence Program Kingston Arts announces visual artists Arabella Stracha and Shea Oberleuter as the recipients of Magnify, a six-month residency program curated by Kingston Arts and Craft Victoria.

Located at G3 Artspace in Parkdale, Arabella and Shea will share an accessible multipurpose studio, exhibition and retail space that will also open for public viewing.

Throughout the residency, the artists will experiment with new approaches to their practices, creating a nexus of artistic innovation and cultural exchange.

Resident artists will also benefit from membership and professional development opportunities provided in partnership with Craft Victoria.

Dates: opened January 3 and closes June 29 at 4pm.

Kingston Arts G3 Artspace Shirley Burke Theatre 64 Parkers Rd, Parkdale

ing through the Great Hall. Korean Samu Nori performances, guided tours of the NGV Triennial exhibition in Mandarin, English and AUSLAN, art-making activities and more.

On each day of the Lunar New Year program the Hong De Lion Dance Association performs Dragon Dances accompanied by traditional Guzheng music and percussion on drums, cymbals and gongs which will enliven the Great Hall with a special performance of Carp Leaping Over theDragon Gate.

On Saturday February 10, a traditional Lion Dance will be performed in the Great Hall to usher in good luck and fortune for the year.

Visitors are invited to join the weekend’s festivities wearing traditional costumes from across the Asian region and participate in a community fashion parade hosted by artist Scotty Sp and Chinese traditional fashion enthusiast, Yi Yi Hanfu.

On Sunday February 11 Beijing Opera’s enchanting sounds will resonate throughout the Great Hall, courtesy of performers from Mei Lan Fang’s art Chinese Beijing Opera Association.

The unique blend of music, vocal performance, mime , dance and acrobatics will thrill audiences in a century-old art form that is enjoyed throughout the world.

Year of the Dragon opens February 10 and closes February 11.

Year of the Dragon

■ The National Gallery of Victoria celebrates the Year of the Dragon with free activities on February 1 and 11.

Extending the celebration over two days for the first time, this year’s Lunar New Year program at the NGV features lion and dragon dances weav-

National Gallery of Victoria 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne - Peter Kemp

■ February 11 sees the National Servicemen's Association of Australia Annual March at Melbourne's Shrine of Rembrance.

The march commences at 11.30am and there will be a flyover of vintage aircraft from the RAAF Museum at Point Cook, this will be at 11.35am.

The music will be supplied by the Royal Australian Navy Band, and we have the Royal Victorian Pipe Band playing The Lament.

Any person who served in the National Service between 1951 and 1972 will be most welcome. Please arrive at the Shrine at 11am. publicity@pktheatre.com or 0427 859 549 - Peter Kemp

Warrnambool Art Gallery

■ Australian art and fashion history is celebrated this summer at Warrnambool Art Gallery’s groundbreaking contemporary design exhibitionLisa Gorman + Mirka mora: To breathe with the rhythm of the heart which is on display until March 17.

Curated by WarrnamboolArt Gallery Director Aaron Bradbrook and supported by the Victorian Government’s Regional Events Fund, the exhibition aligns the work of Warrnambool-born designer and visual artist Lisa Gorman and iconic Australian painter Mirka Mora - two pioneering and ground-breaking artists whose practices traverse generations and art form.

For this exclusive exhibition, Lisa Gorman draws from her love of colour and experience with textiles, specifically the process of weaving, to create a series of exquisite and illuminating acrylic sculptures, immersing visitors in a neon colour bomb of bouncing light and playful shapes.

- Contributed

OK. With John O’Keefe Fifty Not Out

● Samantha Fox ■ Samantha Fox, the legendary pin-up girl of the UK papers, celebrated her 50th birthday with half a dozen gal pals on a spiritual weekend on a Caribbean island. Samantha at one stage was romantically linked to notorious Australian conman Peter Foster but his invite was returned 'Not Known At This Address'.

New from Netflix

■ Set in the 1980s is an Australian made star-studded movie 'Boy Swallows Universe' with cast including Bryan Brown, Simon Baker, Travis Fimmal, Anthony LaPaglia . Based on a book this local product is bound to be a winner.

Rock and Roll Royalty

■ Don't leave town as Alice Cooper and other chart-topping artists are coming to perform April 20 at Caribbean Gardens. Acts include Blondie, Deep Purple, Placebo and a stack of others. Bookings at the usual suspects.

All In The Family

■ Production of ‘Michael', the biopic of Michael Jackson, is well underway with MJ's nephew Jaafar Jackson playing the lead role. Nephew is 27 years of age and said to be a natural in front of camera. Script is family approved and said to be a riveting, honest portrayal. Commit the title to your memory bank as release date is around mid-April 2025.

Willo wings clipped

■ Our True Blue balladeer John Williamson suffered a serious accident involving his guitar playing hand. Suffering shredded skin, muscle damage, the incident will put an end to concert performances, sidelining Willo for at least one month. He was hopeful to be back on stage in time for Tamworth.

- John O’Keefe

Page 38 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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MARKETING FEATURE

The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 39

Magazine

Stateside with Gavin Wood in West Hollywood

IT’S GOODBYE FROM TINSEL TOWN

■ Hi everyone, remotely from my suite at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites in West Hollywood comes this week’s final news.

Out and About

My final page

■ Hello fine readers of the Melbourne Observer and the Local Paper. It is a closing of my page today after reporting for 11 years on all the American stories and one of the best value for money hotels in West Hollywood, California, the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites, 8585 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood.

I will miss the day-to-day connections with Ramada managing director Alan Johnson and all his amazing staff.

I have moved home to Melbourne permanently to be close to my dear family and I have missed the most livable city in the world.

To drive around the Yarra, into the city, is one of the most beautiful drives in the world.

This year is the 50th Anniversary of ABC TV’s groundbreaking music program ‘Countdown’ apart from catching up with my dear friend Ian ‘Molly’ Meldrum, I will be hosting a series of live shows around Australia called ‘Gavin Wood’s CountdownLive’ featuring the stars of this iconic show in concert.

I am so looking forward to be getting out around this beautiful country to say hello to you all.

I would like to pay tribute to the editor of the Observer and Local Paper, Ash Long, who has been a mentor and a dear friend for many years.

Your guidance has been above and beyond and you have nurtured and guided this page for the 11 years. Thank you Ash. I am sure we will be able to catch up more now that I am home.

To my best mate, Ramada Managing Director Alan Johnson, thank you for your support and friendship especially during my early days in West Hollywood and beyond.

I met you at North Melbourne Football Club when I came down from Brisbane to 3XY back in 1980. A true strong friendship that I will treasure forever.

All I can say is ‘Hello Melbourne, it’s fantastic to be home, permanently. Remember: Life is too short to wake up in the morning with regrets.

So, love the people who treat you right, forget about the ones who don’t and believe that everything happens for a reason. If you get a chance, take it. If it changes your life, let it. Nobody said that it would be easy, they just promised it would be worth it.

Costly neighbourhoods

■ A study analysing property prices reveals one neighborhood with an average square footage cost of $1318 and another with an average cost of $419 per square foot.

American Home Shield, a home warranty company, revealed the most expensive neighborhood in LA, and the results were as expected.

According to the study, Bel Air is the most expensive neighbourhood in Los Angeles.

The company ranked where the most and least neighbourhoods to buy property are, using the neighbourhood search to find the average price per square foot data for over 22,000 US neighbourhoods.

Bel Air is home to the stars, with many celebrities historically living within its gates and walls, like Mariah Carey, Michael Jackson, and Taylor Swift, to name a few. These luxury homes in exclusive gated communities have an average square footage cost of $1318.

In 2023, historic Casa Encatada was set to break the record for the most expensive homes at $250 million, but it was cut to $195 million.

Despite the $5 million cut, it is still the most expensive mansion in Bel Air as of today. This translates to $4 875 for each square foot of the roughly 40,000-square-foot mansion.

Mature Millennials?

■ According to new research, more than half of millennials think they’re more mature than their parents financially.

A survey of 2000 millennials examined their financial knowledge and found that while many feel they know more than their parents, 71 per cent still want to learn more.

But respondents aren’t sitting on their hands – half of those surveyed said they’ve already taken more interest in managing their finances this year than last year.

So much so that eight in 10 are confident in managing their finances.

Smallest military

■ The United States is set to enter 2024 with its smallest military in more than eight decades and faces one of its ‘greatest challenges’ as it tries to boost recruiting from Gen Z, Pentagon officials said.

Under the $886 billion annual defence bill passed by Congress, the total active-duty troop numbers will fall to 1,284,500.

That is the lowest total since before the US entered the Second World War in 1941, and officials said there should be a ‘national call to service.’ ● Gavin Wood and Alan Johnson

Higher employment

■ The share of people with disabilities who are employed 22.9 per cent in November is hovering around its highest level in Bureau of Labor Statistics records going back to 2008. The average since June 2008 is 18.8 per cent.

The peak was 23 per cent in August. A continued shortage of labor has made employers more open to hiring disabled people, Bryon Bass, chief executive officer of the Disability Management Employer Coalition, wrote in an email.

Long COVID slightly increased the number of working people who are disabled. Also, the COVID pandemic showed that “it absolutely is possible for us to work from home,” said Felicia Nurmsen, managing director for employer services at the National Organisation on Disability.

The option to work from home attracts some disabled people who otherwise might not seek employment.

Dangerous phones

GavinWood

From my Suite at the Ramada Plaza Complex on Santa Monica Blvd On the other side of town, the South Park neighbourhood was ranked the least expensive in Los Angeles. This downtown neighbourhood has an average cost of $419 per square foot.

Although the least expensive, given it is in the downtown area, there is a higher crime rate at an estimated 492 percent above the national average.

The most expensive neighborhood in the US is in San Francisco. If looking to live in the South of Market neighbourhood, home buyers should be ready to shell out $5415 per square foot.

New tech’s limits

■ A new bill would require cars and trucks made in 2027 or later to install the speed-limiting technology. For all the Angelenos who like to drive "with traffic," that may be coming to a full stop in the future.

California Sen. Scott Weiner has introduced a bill that would require cars to install speed-limiting technology, effectively preventing drivers from going 10-mph over the posted limit.

The new hardware would be mandated for cars and trucks made in 2027 or later. "I don't think it's at all an overreach, and I don't think most people would view it as an overreach, we have speed limits, I think most people support speed limits because people know that speed kills," Wiener told the outlet.

"I think if you ask anyone, do people need to be driving more than 10 miles an hour over the speed limit, assuming you're not an emergency vehicle which are exempt from the bill, I think most people would say no, I don't want people driving more than 10 miles an hour in my neighbourhood," he continued.

A woman whose mother was struck by a car in San Francisco and now suffers from permanent issues was a strong advocate for the change.

"It is hard to stand here where she suffered, where everything changed in an instant, all she was doing was crossing the street," Jenny Yu told KTLA. "Dangerous speeding destroys lives, speed is the number one cause of severe and fatal crashes in San Francisco and in California, and dangerous speeding is on the rise.

www.gavinwood.us

■ A new study warns that teenagers who use smartphones for over four hours a day are at a “serious” risk for specific health issues.

Researchers say that increased smartphone use has been linked to psychiatric disorders, sleep disturbances, eye problems, and musculoskeletal issues.

The study found that adolescents with more than four hours of daily smartphone use exhibited higher rates of stress, suicidal thoughts, and substance use compared to those with less usage. They also had a significantly higher rate of obesity.

Is the air safe?

■ One air traffic controller went into work drunk this summer and joked about “making big money buzzed.” Another routinely smoked marijuana during breaks.

A third employee threatened violence and then “aggressively pushed” a colleague who was directing aeroplanes.

The incidents were extreme examples, but they fit into a pattern that reveals glaring vulnerabilities in one of the most important protective layers of the nation’s vaunted aviation safety system.

In the past two years, air traffic controllers and others have submitted hundreds of complaints to a Federal Aviation Administration hotline describing issues like dangerous staffing shortages, mental health problems and deteriorating buildings, some infested by bugs and black mould.

There were at least seven reports of controllers sleeping when they were on duty and five about employees working while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Add-on rental feees

■ Fees for trash pickup, pest control, the use of a mailbox, and routine maintenance – many no more than five or 10 bucks each – are piling up for renters, straining the budgets of many tenants whose wages didn’t keep up with rent increases during the COVID-19 pandemic.

While rent growth has since flattened in much of the country, large propertyinvestment companies continue with these add-ons to boost their bottom lines, saying it is a way to compensate for rising operating costs. The Federal Government and some states are pushing back. ● Our special offer will still remain in place. If you are considering coming over to California for a holiday, then I have got a special deal for you. We would love to see you at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites, 8585 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood. I have secured a terrific Holiday deal for readers of the Melbourne Observer and The Local Paper. Please mention ‘Melbourne Observer’ when you book to receive the ‘Special Rate of the Day’ for your advance bookings. Please contact: Jennifer at info@ramadaweho.com

Page 40 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 41

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Page 42 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 43

Page 44 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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Local Sport

SATURDAY’S LOCAL CRICKET MATCH RESULTS Premier Cricket

■ Premier Men’s Firsts. Round 17. TwoDay. First Day (Sat. Feb. 3-Sat. Feb. 10).

Melbourne 1st XI v Richmond 1st XI 5/420.

Carlton 1st XI 7/303 v Prahran 1st XI. Ringwood 1st XI 10/184 v Footscray 1st XI 2/17. Frankston Peninsula 1st XI v St Kilda 1st XI 7/226.

Camberwell Magpies 1st XI 7/293 v Northcote 1st XI. Essendon 1st XI 10/108 v Kingston Hawthorn 1st XI 7/112. Greenvale Kangaroos 1st XI 10/173 v Fitzroy Doncaster 1st XI 6/68.

Geelong 1st XI v Dandenong 1st XI 9/267.

Melbourne University 1st XI Casey South Melbourne 1st XI 5/371.

■ Premier Men’s Seconds. Richmond 2nd XI 0/17 v Melbourne 2nd XI 10/174. Prahran 2nd XI 3/120 v Carlton 2nd XI 10/137.

Footscray 2nd XI 10/234 v Ringwood 2nd XI 2/ 68. St Kilda 2nd XI 7-d/307 v Frankston Peninsula 2nd XI 1/13. Northcote 2nd XI 10/284 v Camberwell Magpies 2nd XI 0/1. Kingston Hawthorn 2nd XI v Essendon 2nd XI 10/311.

Fitzroy Doncaster 2nd XI 4-d/296 v Greenvale Kangaroos 2nd XI 1/11. Dandenong 2nd XI 10/ 250 v Geelong 2nd XI 1/4. Casey South Melbourne 2nd XI v Melbourne University 2nd XI 7/334.

■ Premier Men’s Thirds. Melbourne 3rd XI v Richmond 3rd XI 8/301. Prahran 3rd XI 7/ 210 v Carlton 3rd XI. Ringwood 3rd XI 8/377 v Footscray 3rd XI. Frankston Peninsula 3rd XI 8/192 v St Kilda 3rd XI. Camberwell Magpies 3rd XI v Northcote 3rd XI 10/285. Essendon 3rd XI v Kingston Hawthorn 3rd XI 7/307.

Greenvale Kangaroos 3rd XI 10/147 v Fitzroy Doncaster 3rd XI. Geelong 3rd XI 10/204 v Dandenong 3rd XI 3/25. Melbourne University 3rd XI 1/6 v Casey South Melbourne 3rd XI 10/ 129.

■ Premier Men’s Fourths. Richmond 4th XI v Melbourne 4th XI 9/228. Carlton 4th XI 10/141 v Prahran 4th XI 2/45. Footscray 4th XI 0/34 v Ringwood 4th XI 10/260. St Kilda 4th XI 5-d/305 v Frankston Peninsula 4th XI 1/ 11. Northcote 4th XI v Camberwell Magpies 4th XI 0/37. Kingston Hawthorn 4th XI 5/159 v Essendon 4th XI 10/94. Fitzroy Doncaster 4th XI 10/325 v Greenvale Kangaroos 4th XI. Dandenong 4th XI 10/111 v Geelong 4th XI 7/ 113. Casey South Melbourne 4th XI 10/148 v Melbourne University 4th XI 0/28.

Sub-District

■ North-West First XI. Round 12. TwoDay (Sat., Jan. 27-Sat. Feb. 3.) Altona 1st XI 10/108 v St Bernard's OC 1st XI 9/241.

Brunswick 1st XI 9/171 v Coburg 1st XI 10/ 169. Strathmore 1st XI 10/122 v Melton 1st XI 10/204. Plenty Valley 1st XI 10/98 & 10/ 191 v Williamstown 1st XI 2-d/165 & 2/127.

Preston 1st XI 10/212 & 5/42 v Hoppers Crossing 1st XI 10/149. Werribee 1st XI 10/227 v Ivanhoe 1st XI 10/226. Spotswood 1st XI 4/ 346 v Yarraville 1st XI 10/231. Taylors Lakes 1st XI 10/102 v Kew 1st XI 10/124 & 0/28.

■ North-West Second XI. St Bernard's OC 2nd XI 10/255 v Altona 2nd XI 10/109 & 5/93.

Coburg 2nd XI 10/144 v Brunswick 2nd XI 10/ 100 & 3/78. Melton 2nd XI 7-d/184 v Strathmore 2nd XI 10/97 & 9/43. Williamstown 2nd XI 6-d/160. Plenty Valley 2nd XI 10/115 & 4/143. Hoppers Crossing 2nd XI 10/152 v Preston 2nd XI 6/223. Ivanhoe 2nd XI 10/156 v Werribee 2nd XI 10/180. Yarraville 2nd XI 3/ 195 v Spotswood 2nd XI 10/194. Kew 2nd XI 10/214 v Taylors Lakes 2nd XI 10/250.

■ North-West Third XI. Division 1.

Werribee 3rd XI 10/159 v Brunswick 3rd XI 10/127. St Bernard's OC 3rd XI 10/163 v Plenty Valley 3rd XI 9/165. Kew 3rd XI 5-d/286 v Coburg 3rd XI 9/88 & 5/102. Preston 3rd XI 4/ 79 v Melton 3rd XI 10/129.

■ North-West Third XI. Division 2.

Yarraville 3rd XI 10/309 v Spotswood 3rd XI 6/ 313. Williamstown 3rd XI 10/276 v Ivanhoe 3rd XI 10/206. Strathmore 3rd XI 8/86 & 8/ 178 v Hoppers Crossing 3rd XI 5-d/249. Altona 3rd XI 10/153 v Taylors Lakes 3rd XI 10/90.

■ North-West Fourth XI. Division 1.

Brunswick 4th XI 10/76 v Werribee 4th XI 6/ 50. Plenty Valley 4th XI 10/165 v St Bernard's OC 4th XI 8/240. Coburg 4th XI 7/180 v Kew

4th XI 10/163. Melton 4th XI 10/171 v Preston 4th XI 1/33.

■ North-West Fourth XI. Division 2.

Spotswood 4th XI 3/279 v Yarraville 4th XI 10/ 260. Ivanhoe 4th XI 10/113 v Williamstown 4th XI 10/43 & 4/84. Hoppers Crossing 4th XI 10/129 & 9-d/149. Strathmore 4th XI 9/95 & 6/32. Taylors Lakes 4th XI 7/156 v Altona 4th XI 9-d/118.

■ South-East First XI. Box Hill 1st XI 10/ 197 v Ormond 1st XI 9-d/213. Brighton 1st XI 5/209 v Caulfield 1st XI 10/208. Malvern 1st XI 7-d/173 & 6/112 v Endeavour Hills 1st XI 10/127 & 10/229. Elsternwick 1st XI 7/372 v Bayswater 1st XI 10/191. Oakleigh 1st XI 5/ 173 v Donvale 1st XI 9/170. Moorabbin 1st XI 10/93 & 7/76 v Mt Waverley 1st XI 8/286.

Croydon 1st XI 10/72 & 4/178. Port Melbourne 1st XI 8/190. Noble Park 1st XI 10/236 v Balwyn 1st XI 10/229.

■ South-East Second XI. Ormond 2nd XI 10/204 v Box Hill 2nd XI 10/136 & 4/89.

Caulfield 2nd XI 10/219 v Brighton 2nd XI 10/ 55 & 0/25. Endeavour Hills 2nd XI 10/192 v Malvern 2nd XI 8/194. Bayswater 2nd XI 10/ 190 v Elsternwick 2nd XI 4/204. Donvale 2nd XI 10/174 v Oakleigh 2nd XI 1/177. Mt Waverley 2nd XI 10/134 v Moorabbin 2nd XI 9/172. Port Melbourne 2nd XI 10/249 v Croydon 2nd XI 10/145 & 3/142. Balwyn 2nd XI 9/201 v Noble Park 2nd XI 8/200.

■ South-East Third XI. Division 1.

Brighton 3rd XI 10/258 v Balwyn 3rd XI 9/ 268. Bayswater 3rd XI 6/98 v Mt Waverley 3rd XI 10/94. Endeavour Hills 3rd XI 10/65 & 9/119 v Caulfield 3rd XI 10/100 & 2/77.

Oakleigh 3rd XI 10/204 v Croydon 3rd XI 10/ 104.

■ South-East Third XI. Division 2.

Elsternwick 3rd XI 7/206 v Port Melbourne 3rd XI 10/201. Box Hill 3rd XI 10/111 & 6-d/134.

Malvern 3rd XI 10/117 & 6/135. Donvale 3rd XI 10/147 v Noble Park 3rd XI 10/192.

Moorabbin 3rd XI 10/240 v Ormond 3rd XI 9d/330.

■ South-East Fourth XI. Division 1.

Balwyn 4th XI 9/218 v Brighton 4th XI 10/ 173. Caulfield 4th XI 10/153 v Endeavour Hills 4th XI 10/143. Croydon 4th XI 10/122 v Oakleigh 4th XI 7/216. Mt Waverley 4th XI 0/ 74 v Bayswater 4th XI 10/124.

■ South-East Fourth XI. Division 2. Port Melbourne 4th XI 10/70 & 7-d/108 v Elsternwick 4th XI 10/76 & 2/48. Malvern 4th XI 10/167 & 1/45. Box Hill 4th XI 10/93 & 7/ 114. Noble Park 4th XI 10/55 & 5/71 v Donvale 4th XI 6-d/185. Ormond 4th XI 10/263 v Moorabbin 4th XI 10/137 & 4/38.

Diamond Valley

■ Barclay Shield. Round 12. Two-Day. First Day (Sat. Feb. 3-Sat. Feb. 10). Riverside 1st XI 9/196 v North Eltham Wanderers 1st XI. Diamond Creek 1st XI v Bundoora 1st XI 10/230. Rosanna 1st XI 10/148 v Epping 1st XI 0/5. Macleod 1st XI v Heidelberg 1st XI 3/260. Rosebank 1st XI 8/208 v Research Eltham Collegians 1st XI. ■ Money Shield. Eltham 1st XI 1/57 v Laurimar 1st XI 10/99. Bundoora United 1st XI 5/150 v Greensborough 1st XI 10/54. Banyule 1st XI 9/221 v Bundoora Park 1st XI. Lalor Stars 1st XI 10/171 v Lower Eltham 1st XI 3/ 17. Montmorency 1st XI v Plenty 1st XI 10/ 197.

■ Mash Shield. Mill Park 1st XI 10/150 v Panton Hill 1st XI 2/66. Lower Plenty 1st XI 9/ 203 v Mernda 1st . Thomastown United 1st XI 10/152 v South Morang 1st XI 0/28.

Hurstbridge 1st XI 1/37 v Thomastown 1st XI 10/153.

■ B-Grade. North Eltham Wanderers 2nd XI v Riverside 2nd XI 10/251. Banyule 2nd XI 4/ 62 v Diamond Creek 2nd XI 10/120. Epping 2nd XI 0/39 v Rosanna 2nd XI 10/167. Heidelberg 2nd XI 6/338 v Lalor Stars 2nd XI. Mernda 2nd XI 10/171 v Montmorency 2nd XI 1/20.

■ C-Grade. Laurimar 2nd XI 1/49 v Eltham 2nd XI 9-d/167. Research Eltham Collegians 2nd XI 5/410 v Bundoora United 2nd XI. Bundoora 2nd XI 10/107 v Lower Plenty 2nd XI 1/52. Lower Eltham 2nd XI 8/265 v Macleod 2nd XI. Plenty 2nd XI v Riverside 3rd XI 5/247

■ D-Grade. Montmorency 3rd XI 10/166 v Mill Park 2nd XI 1/88. Bundoora Park 2nd XI 5-d/299 v Thomastown 2nd XI 3/20. North Eltham Wanderers 3rd XI v Greensborough 2nd XI 8/333. South Morang 2nd XI 10/189 v Rosebank 2nd XI 2/16. Diamond Creek 3rd XI 8/46 v Banyule 3rd XI. ■ E-Grade. Panton Hill 2nd XI 0/69 v Riverside 4th XI 10/161. Greensborough 3rd XI v Mernda 3rd XI 7/276. Hurstbridge 2nd XI 1-d/ 73 v Rosanna 3rd XI 9/62 & 1/85. Lower Plenty 3rd XI 3/153 v Bundoora 3rd XI 10/84.

■ F1-Grade. Riverside 5th XI 0/21 v Laurimar 3rd XI 10/237. Heidelberg 3rd XI 10/ 172 v Greensborough 4th XI 0/12. Research Eltham Collegians 3rd XI v Banyule 4th XI 8/ 218. Epping 3rd XI 0/28 v Diamond Creek 4th XI 10/108.

■ F2-Grade. Riverside 6th XI 10/92 v Plenty 3rd XI 1/44. Eltham 3rd XI 0/0 v Greensborough 5th XI 10/164. Research Eltham Collegians 4th XI v Banyule 5th XI 8/188. South Morang 3rd XI 0/5 v Mill Park 3rd XI 10/158. Lower Plenty 4th XI v Macleod 3rd XI 8/428.

■ F3-Grade. Bundoora Park 3rd XI v South Morang 4th XI 9/197. Laurimar 4th XI v Plenty 4th XI 8/326. Research Eltham Collegians 5th XI 2/12 v Hurstbridge 3rd XI 10/201.

Thomastown United 2nd XI v North Eltham Wanderers 4th XI. ■ G1-Grade. One Day. Panton Hill 3rd XI 10/74 v Rosebank 3rd XI 8/177. Lalor Stars 3rd XI v Bundoora Park 4th XI, Forfeit. Lower Eltham 3rd XI 7/130 v Thomastown United 3rd XI 8/129. Bundoora 4th XI 5/135 v Montmorency 4th XI 9/130. Mernda 4th XI 10/115 v Laurimar 5th XI 4/119.

■ G2-Grade. Epping 4th XI Forfeit v North Eltham Wanderers 5th XI. Bundoora United 3rd XI v Diamond Creek 5th XI, Forfeit.

Thomastown 3rd XI 4/144 v Banyule 6th XI 5/ 147. Laurimar 6th XI 6/232 v South Morang 5th XI 9/73. Mill Park 4th XI 10/139 v Eltham 4th XI 6/147.

■ G3-Grade. Macleod 4th XI 5/114 v Banyule 7th XI 6/113. Heidelberg 4th XI 3/ 162 v Lower Plenty 5th XI 10/160. Greensborough 6th XI 6/153 v Rosanna 4th XI 3/159.

Montmorency 5th XI 7/93 v Bundoora United 4th XI 6/218. North Eltham Wanderers 6th XI: Bye.

Eastern

■ Dunstan Shield. Round 12. Two-Day. First Day (Sat. Feb. 3-Sat. Feb. 10). East Doncaster 1st XI 4/119 v Old Carey 1st XI 10/ 116. Heathmont 1st XI 10/114 & 6/176 v Canterbury 1st XI 10/92. Mont Albert 1st XI 7/ 137 v North Balwyn Bulls 1st XI 10/134. Bulleen 1st XI 7/192 v Glen Iris 1st XI 8-d/189.

■ Wright Shield. Marcellin OC 1st XI 10/ 153 v Mazenod OC 1st XI 10/76. Mulgrave 1st XI 10/81 v Ashburton Willows 1st XI 8/ 217. Hawthorn 1st XI 10/158 & 2/48 v East Malvern Tooronga 1st XI 5-d/228. Edinburgh 1st XI 9/277 v Deepdene Bears 1st XI 10/176.

■ A Turf. Boronia Hawks 1st XI 10/169 v Burwood 1st XI 10/130. Old Carey 2nd XI 10/ 129 & 10/57 v Richmond City 1st XI 8/242.

Canterbury 2nd XI 10/147 & 10/153 v Surrey Hills 1st XI 10/129 & 5/90. Mont Albert 2nd XI: Bye. ■ B Turf. North Balwyn Bulls 2nd XI 6/150 v Balwyn Saints 1st XI 10/149. Deepdene Bears 2nd XI 10/112 & 1/14 v Ashwood 1st XI 10/90 & 8-d/167. Richmond Union 1st XI 10/63 & 7d/179. Marcellin OC 2nd XI 10/68 & 10/105.

St Kevins Old Boys 1st XI 10/160 v Heathmont 2nd XI 10/178.

■ C Turf. Burwood 2nd XI 7-d/133 v Boronia Hawks 2nd XI 10/70 & 7/233. East Malvern Tooronga 2nd XI 3-d/229 v Hawthorn 2nd XI 10/130 & 4/85. Glen Iris 2nd XI 10/154 v Bulleen 2nd XI 6/215. Mazenod OC 2nd XI 10/ 62 & 10/79 v East Doncaster 2nd XI 10/162 ■ D Turf. Richmond City 2nd XI 8/241 vOld Carey 3rd XI 10/283. Surrey Hills 2nd XI 10/ 108 v Edinburgh 2nd XI 9-d/330. Mont Albert 3rd XI 1/460 v La Trobe Uni 1st XI 10/218.

Ashwood 2nd XI 8/205 v Mulgrave 2nd XI 9/ 204.

■ E Turf. East Malvern Tooronga 3rd XI 8/ 301 v Richmond Union 2nd XI 10/109. Haw-

thorn 3rd XI 7/175 v Surrey Hills 3rd XI 10/58.

Balwyn Saints 2nd XI 7/130 v Deepdene Bears 3rd XI 10/128. Edinburgh 3rd XI 10/112 v Heathmont 3rd XI 2/36.

■ F Turf. Deepdene Bears 4th XI 8/232 v Bulleen 3rd XI 9/230. Heathmont 4th XI 8/ 244 v Mont Albert 4th XI 10/120. Richmond City 3rd XI v Hawthorn 4th XI, Forfeit. Surrey Hills 4th XI 9/64 v St Kevins Old Boys 2nd XI 0/68. Mazenod OC 3rd XI 10/166 v East Malvern Tooronga 4th XI 10/140.

■ MacGibbon Shield. Burwood Uniting Canterbury CC 1st XI 10/131 v St. Pauls CC 1st XI 4/134. Clifton Hill 1st XI 10/119 & 4-d/203 v Deepdene Uniting 1st XI 10/167 & 6/123.

Boroondara 1st X1 10/86 v Trinity Willison CC 1st XI 10/140. Toorak-Prahran 1st XI 10/101 & 9/123 v Glen Waverley CC 1st XI 10/143 & 6-d/208.

■ Burt Shield. Trinity Willison CC 2nd XI 10/ 170 v STC South Camberwell 1st XI 6/171.

Glen Waverley CC 2nd XI 10/62 & 6/133 v Monash ROADERS 1st XI 9-d/198. Mount Waverley Uniting 1st X1 10/142 & 3/101 v West Ivanhoe United 1st XI 4-d/290. Mt Waverley Catholics CC 1st XI 10/221 v Clifton Hill 2nd XI 10/149.

■ Menzies and Mackay Shield. Burwood 3rd XI 10/101 & 10/110. Burwood Uniting Canterbury CC 2nd XI 3-d/154 & 1/61. Trinity Willison CC 3rd XI 4/155 v North Alphington 10/152. Blackburn North United 1st XI 10/104 v Toorak-Prahran 2nd XI 4/106. STC South Camberwell 2XI 10/167 v Boroondara 2nd X1 10/119.

■ A Synthetic. AYC Harlequins 1st XI 7/248 v Clifton Hill 3rd XI 10/203. Boroondara Forfeit v Mount Waverley Uniting 2nd XI. Monash 2nd XI 10/81 v Glen Waverley 3rd XI 10/55.

■ B Synthetic. West Ivanhoe United 2nd X 8/119 v Trinity Willison CC 4th XI 10/117. Glen Waverley CC 4th XI 10/217 v Edinburgh 4th XI 8/343. Burwood Uniting Canterbury CC 3rd XI 4/177 v Mazenod OC B Grade 8/176.

■ McCarthy Shield. One Day. Melbourne Sixers 1st X1 8/250 v St. Pauls CC 2nd XI 9/ 150. Knox Churches LOC 1 5/202 v Northcote United 1st XI 8/198. Deepdene Uniting 2nd XI 9/164 v Malvern Valley Saints CC 1st XI 10/ 172. Bye: Eagles Cricket Club 1stXI ■ LOC2. R.W. Laws Shield. Monash University 4 v Manningham 1st XI 0/24. Canterbury 3rd XI v Hartley Bull Terriers 2nd X1. Glen Iris 3rd XI 8/199 v Eagles Cricket Club 2ndXI 4/200. Toorak-Prahran 3rd XI 2/143 v Mt Waverley Catholics CC 2nd XI LOC2 10/142.

Mulgrave 3rd XI 6/232 v East Doncaster 4th XI 4/229.

■ LOC3. Lamborn Shield. Malvern Valley Saints 2nd XI 8/222 v Mulgrave 4th XI 4/22.

Eagles Cricket Club 3rdX. Hartley CC Bull Terriers 8/104 v St Stephens Greythorn 1st XI LOC 8/255. St. Pauls CC 3rd XI 8/136 v Balwyn Saints 3rd XI 9/169. Manningham 2nd XI 10/ 80 v Melbourne Sixers 2nd X1 10/95.

■ LOC4. Tobias Shield. Northcote United 2nd XI 9/252 v Burwood 4th XI 8/186. Marcellin OC 3rd XI 8/160 v Abbotsford Anglers 9/159.

North Balwyn Bulls 4th XI 9/156 v Ashburton Willows 2nd XI 7/220. Salesian 1st XI 8/185 v STC South Camberwell 3XI (LOC4) 2/181. St Andrews Gardiner 1st XI 7/225 v AYC Harlequins 2nd XI 7/224.

■ LOC5. Minahan Shield. Mount Waverley Uniting 3rd X1 10/122 v Toorak-Prahran 4th X 8/192. Ashburton Willows 3rd XI 5/149 v Glen Iris 4th X1 8/150. Heathmont 6th XI 7/145.

Blackburn North United 2nd XI 6/231.

Manningham 3rd XI v Ashwood 3rd XI. ■ LOC6. Bingley Shield. Clifton Hill 4th XI 7/123 v STC South Camberwell 4th X1 (LOC6) 6/171. Ashwood 4th XI 8/195 v Burwood Uniting Canterbury CC 4th XI 10/184. Richmond Union 3rd XI 6/187 v Edinburgh LOC6 10/91.

Salvation Army Waverley 7/199 v St Andrews Gardiner 2nd XI 8/143. Bye: Deepdene Uniting 3rd XI ■ LOC7. Fitzwilliam Shield. East Doncaster 5th XI 6/144 v Manningham 4th XI 7/143. Mont Albert 5th XI 2/107 v Glen Waverley CC 6th XI - Sunday 9/102. Boroondara LOC7 4/113 v Mt Waverley Catholics CC 3rd XI LOC7 10/110.

STC South Camberwell 5th XI (LOC7) 4/166 v Bulleen 4th XI 7/178.

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 45

Local Sport

SCORES FROM WEEKEND MATCHES Morn. Peninsula

■ Provincial Firsts. Baden Powell 1sts 2/ 189 v Heatherhill 1sts 8/188. Red Hill 1sts 7/ 202 v Old Peninsula 1sts 6/224. Langwarrin 1sts 9/178 v Sorrento 1sts 7/197. Pines 1sts 8/175 v Long Island 1sts 8/170.

■ Peninsula Firsts. Mt Eliza 1sts 8/143 v Dromana 1sts 10/141. Rosebud 1sts 10/183 v Mornington 1sts 8/184. Seaford Tigers 1sts 7/146 v Moorooduc 1sts 10/145. Baxter 1sts 5/189 v Somerville 1sts 5/191.

■ District Firsts. Carrum Downs 1sts 4/188 v Crib Point 1sts 8/189. Balnarring 1sts 7/ 184 v Main Ridge 1sts 8/132. Carrum 1sts 8/ 171 v Seaford 1sts 9/172. Flinders 1sts 3/ 198 v Delacombe Park 1sts 7/196.

■ Sub-District Firsts. Pearcedale 1sts v Rye 1sts. Hastings 1sts v Mt Martha 1sts. Skye 1sts 10/85 v Boneo 1sts 7/170. Tootgarook 1sts 6/139 v Frankston YCW 1sts 10/137.

Ballam Park 1sts 9/130 v Tyabb 1sts 2/132.

■ Provincial Seconds. Heatherhill 2nds v Baden Powell 2nds, Abandoned. Old Peninsula 2nds v Red Hill 2nds. Sorrento 2nds 7/201 v Langwarrin 2nds 10/198. Long Island 2nds 9/ 170 v Pines 2nds. 4/171 ■ Peninsula Seconds. Dromana 2nds 10/ 71 v Mt Eliza 2nds 1/72. Mornington 2nds 5/ 143 v Rosebud 2nds 10/77. Moorooduc 2nds v Seaford Tigers 2nd. Somerville 2nds 3/190 v Baxter 2nds 8/186.

Harness Racing Hunter Cup Night

■ Champion trainer/driver Grant Dixon’s outstanding Better Delight-Lettucereason 5Y0 entire Leap To Fame was a brilliant victor of the $500,000 (Group 1) SenTrack A.G. Hunter Cup in front of a large crowd at Melton Entertainment Park on Saturday night.

Given time to balance after being eased from gate five as polemarker Catch A Wave led with multiple provincial cup winner Curley James (gate three) on his outside momentarily before Sydneysider Cya Art (gate four) went forward after being caught wide to race exposed.

With no changes through the middle stages, the formation was Leap To Fame leading from Catch A Wave, Max Delight, Spirit Of St Louis and Taipo on the markers, with Cya Art breezing being followed by Curley James, Don’t Stop Dreaming, Better Eclipse.

Beyond, Delight, Mach Dan and Kanena Provlima occupied the last three positions.

Curley James was first to make a move approaching the final bend, with Don’t Stop Dreaming trailing, however Leap To Fame was off and running with the race safely in his keeping.

Reaching the wire it was Leap To Fame unextended by 1.6 metres from Don’t Stop Dreaming which pulled plenty of ground off him. Mach Dan after a great drive by Nathan Jack sticking to the markers used the sprint lane for third 3.4 metres away, with Bettor Eclipse back in fourth place and Taipo 4.4 metres back fifth a half head back after also using the sprint lane.

Raced by Kevin and Kay Seymour under the banner of Solid Earth Pty Ltd, Leap To Fame in quarters of 30.4, 29.5, 27.1 and 27.2 after a lead time of 81.3 seconds, returned a mile rate of 1-54 eight tenths of a second outside Tiger Tara’s 1-53.2 set in 2009.

The $300,000 (Group 1) Yabby Dam Farms Great Southern Star Grand Final over 1720 metres (two heats held on the same night) in a thrilling finish went the way of European bred (Trixton-Gilly LB) 6Y0 entire Callmethebreeze for Haras Des Trotteurs principal Pat Driscoll in a mile rate of 1-53.1 equalling Torado Valley’s 2021 record.

Easing three wide on the final bend to tackle Just Believe with the pair turning together, Callmethebreeze was outstanding in gaining the day from a game Just Believe by a neck, with Keayang Chucky using the sprint lane off the back of the weakening leader Hesallmuscle third 5.7 metres away.

- Len Baker

■ District Seconds. Crib Point 2nds 3/150 (v Carrum Downs 2nds 8/149. Main Ridge 2nds 8/260 v Balnarring 2nds 9/235. Seaford 2nds 1/101 v Carrum 2nds 10/98. Delacombe Park 2nds 4/275 v Flinders 2nds 10/123.

■ Sub-District Seconds. Rye 2nds v Pearcedale 2nds. Mt Martha 2nds 9/206 v Hastings 2nds 10/129. Boneo 2nds 4/249 v Skye 2nds 8/49. Frankston YCW 2nds 4/211. v Tootgarook 2nds 9/174. Tyabb 2nds 4/143 v Ballam Park 2nds 10/140.

North Metro

■ Jika Shield. Round 12. Two-Day (Sat., Jan. 27-Sat. Feb. 3.) Reservoir Cobras CC 1st XI 10/63 & 10/124 v Keon Park CC 1st XI 10/183 & 0/6. Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 1st XI 9/164 v Rivergum CC 1st XI 7/307. Holy Trinity CC 1st XI 7/148 v Preston Baseballers CC 1st XI 10/146. Camrea CC 1st XI: Bye. ■ Jack Quick Shield. Bellfield CC 1st XI 10/ 159 v Strathewen CC 1st XI 10/143. Donath CC 1st XI 10/299 v Holy Trinity CC 2nd XI 10/ 121. Fairfield CC 1st XI 0/30 v Cameron CC 1st XI 7-d/252, Fiji Victorian CC 1st XI 10/ 108 v Dennis CC 1st XI 10/256.

■ Jack Kelly Shield. Rivergum CC 2nd XI 9/ 159 v Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 2nd XI 9/ 154. Northern Socials CC 1st XI 10/214 v Ivanhoe Mavericks CC 1st XI 9/98. Strathewen CC 2nd XI Forfeit v Olympic Colts CC 1st XI. Preston Himalayan CC 1st XI 10/147 & 8/166 v West Preston CC 1st XI 5-d/316.

■ B-Grade. Preston YCW District CC 1st XI 10/140 v Balmoral Redbacks CC 1st XI 10/ 220. Dennis CC 2nd XI 3/272 v Fiji Victorian CC 2nd XI 10/257. Preston Baseballers CC 2nd XI 10/39 & 10/70 v Camrea CC 2nd XI 7-d/ 104 & 1/8. Keon Park CC 2nd XI: Bye. ■ C-Grade. Cameron CC 2nd XI 10/50 & 10/ 116 v Fairfield CC 2nd X1 2-d/140 & 0/27.

Royal Park Reds CC 1st XI 7/269 v Rivergum CC 3rd XI 10/82. Ivanhoe Mavericks CC 2nd XI 4/135 v Fiji Victorian CC 3rd XI Forfeit. Reservoir Cobras CC 2nd XI v Holy Trinity CC 3rd XI 8/188.

■ D-Grade. Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 3rd XI 3-d/267 v Bellfield CC 2nd XI 9/163 & 10/ 45. West Preston CC 2nd XI 10/239. Dennis CC 3rd XI 10/129 & 3/79. Holy Trinity CC 4th XI 10/125 & 0/71 v Donath CC 2nd XI 5-d/ 222.

■ Robert Young DODC. Olympic Colts CC OD 1/112 v Northern Socials CC OD 10/111.

Fiji Victorian CC OD 4/220 v Holy Trin 8/140 v Fairfield CC OD 4/210. Dennis CC OD 10/ 185 v Bellfield CC OD 8/191. Royal Park Reds CC OD: Bye. ■ Casey Radcliffe DODC. Rivergum CC OD 6/280 v Kinglake CC OD 9/240. Keon Park CC OD 10/114 vb Ivanhoe Mavericks CC OD 7/ 141. Dennis CC OD (2) 10/63 v West Preston CC OD 3/64. Strathewen CC OD 6/116 v Preston YCW District CC OD 6/114.

Ringwood District

■ Linday Trollope Shield. Round 12. TwoDay (Sat., Jan. 27-Sat. Feb. 3.) Norwood CC 1st XI 10/177 v Lilydale 1st XI 10/217.

Ainslie Park 1st XI 3-d/141 v East Ringwood 1XI 10/133 & 4-d/165. Montrose 1st XI 7-d/ 177 v Kilsyth 1st XI 10/174. North Ringwood 1st XI 6/246 v South Croydon 1st XI 7/242.

■ Bill Wilkins Cup. Wantirna South 1st XI 10/137 v Warrandyte 1st XI 6/266. Bayswater Park 1st X1 8/213 v Mooroolbark 1st XI Men's 10/211. Croydon Ranges CC 1st XI 7/241 v St Andrews 1st XI 10/240. Templeton 1st XI 10/ 216 v Wonga Park CC 1st XI 10/121.

■ Stuart Newey Plate. Chirnside Park 1st XI 6/290 v Croydon North 1st XI 10/69 & 2/ 104. Heathwood CC 1st XI 10/157 v Montrose 2nd XI 8/338. Seville Burras 1XI 10/81 v South Warrandyte 1st XI 10/110. Mt Evelyn 1st XI 7/ 172 v Warranwood 1XI 10/170.

■ Steve Pascoe Shield. Kilsyth 2nd XI 10/ 246 v Croydon Ranges CC 2nd XI 10/264. South Croydon 2nd XI 10/156 v North Ringwood 2nd XI 3/261. Yarra Junction 1stXI 9/112 v Ainslie Park 2nd XI 8-d/175. Warrandyte 2nd XI 5-d/ 121 & 4/114 v Wantirna South 2nd XI 10/114 & 10/157.

■ Pat Meehan Shield. Wonga Park CC 2nd XI 9/264 v Healesville 1st XI 10/330. South Warrandyte 2nd XI 10/123 v Eastfield 1st XI 4/ 125. East Ringwood 2XI 7/222 v Lusatia Park 1st XI 10/220. Lilydale 2nd XI 10/202 v Norwood CC 2nd XI 5/205.

■ Ian Spencer Shield. Warranwood 2XI 10/ 202 v Templeton 2nd XI 6/203. St Andrews 2nd XI 10/151 v Montrose 3rd XI 9/261.

Mooroolbark 2nd XI Men's 10/219 v Bayswater Park 2nd X1 10/192. Coldstream 1stXI 10/ 149 v Chirnside Park 2nd XI 10/52.

■ David Beatty Shield. East Ringwood 3XI 10/224 v Mt Evelyn 2nd XI 10/218. North Ringwood 3rd XI v Wandin CC 1st XI. Norwood CC 3rd XI 10/182 v Heathwood CC 2nd XI 4/ 183. Warrandyte 3rd XI 10/122 v Seville Burras 2XI 7/125.e ■ Don Smith Shield. Montrose 4th XI 10/ 479 v Yarra Glen Senior Men 1st XI 10/128 & 2/48. Croydon Ranges CC 3rd XI 8/216 v Warranwood 3XI 9/212. Hoddles Creek 1st XI 9-d/123 & 2/77 v Yarra Junction 2ndXI 10/60 & 10/139. Wonga Park CC 3rd XI 10/276 v Ainslie Park 3rd XI 10/335.

■ John Springett Shield. Wandin CC 2nd XI 10/288 v Kilsyth 3rd XI 5-d/290. Healesville 2nd XI 9/146 v Lilydale 3rd XI 10/144. Eastfield 2nd XI 10/214 v Wantirna South 3rd XI 5/218.

Lusatia Park 2nd XI 10/240 v St Andrews 3rd XI 8/241.

■ A-Grade. Chirnside Park 3rd XI 4/78 v Heathwood CC 3rd XI 7/77. South Croydon 3rd XI 9/223 v Powelltown 1st XI 6/238. St Andrews 4th XI 7/126 v Croydon North 2nd XI 3/134.

Seville Burras 3XI 6/123 v Norwood CC 4th XI 10/121.

■ B-Grade. North Ringwood 4th XI v Warrandyte 4th XI. Templeton 3rd XI 1/90 v Wonga Park CC 4th XI 10/88. Mt Evelyn 3rd XI v Croydon Ranges CC 4th XI. Mooroolbark 3rd XI Men's 2/189 v South Warrandyte 3rd XI 5/ 187.

■ C-Grade. Montrose 5th XI 8/246 v Chirnside Park 4th XI 7/225. Mt Evelyn 4th XI v Kilsyth 4th XI. Healesville 3rd XI v Boronia Hawks 4th XI. Bayswater Park 3rd X1 9/151 v Coldstream 2ndXI 5/210.

■ D-Grade. Lilydale 4th XI 7/175 v St Andrews 5th XI 6/246. Warrandyte 5th XI v East Ringwood 4XI. Yarra Junction 3rdXI 10/ 118 v Warranwood 4XI 6/121. Yarra Glen Senior Men 2nd XI 10/189 v Wonga Park CC 5th XI 5/192.

South Eastern

■ Longmuir Shield. Kingston Heath 1 10/ 90 v Bentleigh Uniting 1 3/60. Bentleigh ANA 1 9/223 v Brighton Union 1. Le Page Park 1 v East Sandringham 1 10/192. CHAG 1 10/152 v Elwood 1 0/12.

■ Woolnough Shield. Hampton United 1 9/ 192 v Cheltenham Park 1. Omega 1 0/11 v Mackie 1 10/156. Cluden 1 v Hampton Central 1 10/353. Washington Park 1 4/14 v West Bentleigh 1 10/182.

■ Quiney Shield. Mackie 2 10/269 v Omega 2. Bentleigh Uniting 2 v Kingston Heath 2 9/ 183. Elwood 2 10/307 v Washington Park 2.

Carnegie South 1 v Le Page Park 2 10/245.

■ Pullen Shield. Brighton Union 2 9/233 v Melbourne Wanderers 1. Cheltenham Park 2 7/195 v Hampton United 2 10/134. West Bentleigh 2 10/299 v CUCC Kings 1. East Sandringham 2 8/269 v Cluden 2.

■ E-Grade. Melbourne Districts United 1 8/ 289 v Bentleigh ANA 2. Diamond 1 10/204 v Keysborough Park 1 1/11. Le Page Park 3 9/ 235 v CHAG 2. CUCC Kings 2 v Highett West 1 9/209.

■ F-Grade. Emmanuel South Oakleigh 1 10/210 v East Bentleigh Central 1. Dingley 1 v Elwood 3 9/254. East Sandringham 3 10/ 164 v Omega 3. Hampton Central 2 4/29 v Mackie 3 10/116. St Andrews Gardiner 1 9/ 170 v Washington Park 3.

■ G-Grade. CUCC Kings 3 v Kingston Heath 3. Washington Park 4 3/264 v Le Page Park 4. East Bentleigh Central 2 v Southside East Caulfield 1 10/293. Highett West 2 1/94 v Carnegie South 2 10/133.

Your Stars with Kerry Kulkens Aries: March 21- April 20.

Colour: Green Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 1.4.8.5 Lotto Numbers: 12.13.18.25.32.45.

The near future promises to be full of excitement and opportunities for most of you. This is the perfect moment to reflect on your life and make the necessary changes to achieve your goals. You can also look forward to a new and exciting romantic prospect that is about to enter your life. Get ready for some positive changes and new beginnings.

Taurus : April 21- May 20.

Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 8.5.2.5 Lotto Numbers: 1.18.19.23.37.44.

As we move forward, there is a notable uptick in energy levels that could inspire some individuals to pursue new job opportunities. Additionally, the romantic realm may bring about unexpected and exciting changes, so it would be wise to seek guidance from experts in this area.

Gemini : May 21- June 21.

Colour: Yellow Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 1.5.8.3.

Lotto Numbers: 6.9.18.24.22.45.

It is crucial to exercise caution when making decisions on a whim, as such actions can have negative consequences. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid gambling unless the odds are significantly in your favor. Brace yourself for significant changes in your lifestyle, as they are highly likely to occur.

Cancer: June 22- July 22.

Colour: Lilac Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 3.5.2.1.

Lotto Numbers: 12.18.24.29.35.33.

There are positive signs of improvement in the financial situation, indicating that changes are on the horizon.

Additionally, new friendships are blossoming and opportunities for forging new connections are presenting themselves. It seems that travel to various places is in the cards and an exciting journey awaits.

Leo: July 23- August 22.

Colour: Mauve.

Lucky Day: Tuesday.

Racing Numbers: 5.4.8.4.

Lotto Numbers: 15.19.25.40.36.23.

Opportunities abound for correcting past mistakes and making amends. The indications point towards a multitude of changes that are likely to occur, and your high level of confidence will make it easier to navigate through these transitions and challenges.

Virgo: August 23- September 23.

Colour: Green Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 1.5.7.4.

Lotto Numbers: 10.45.1.41.26.33.

In situations where time is of the essence and decisions must be made rapidly, people may find themselves struggling to conclude. However, it is often advisable to rely on your initial gut feeling and trust your intuition. Your subconscious mind may have already processed the necessary information and arrived at a decision that is in your best interest.

Libra: September 24- October 23.

Colour Dark: Blue Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 1.5.8.7.

Lotto Numbers: 15.19.24.28.34.45.

If you're looking for a more pleasant and fulfilling experience, you might want to consider spending more time indoors. People indoors tend to be more helpful and welcoming, and you may even find that your relationships at home improve as a result. On the other hand, outdoor activities may not be as enjoyable or fulfilling as the ones you can have indoors.

Scorpio: October 24- November 22.

Colour: Green Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing: 1.5.7.4.

Lotto Numbers: 15.19.24.28.34.36. .

You are currently in a position where you have several promising opportunities ahead of you. The timing couldn't be better, and financial gains are likely to come your way.

However, it's important to keep in mind the people who have supported you in the past, particularly your old friends. Don't forget to show them gratitude and appreciation for their help and support.

Sagittarius: November 23- December 20 Lucky Colour: Orange Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1.8.7.4 Lotto Numbers: 1.5.19.24.42.45 Anticipate a surge of good fortune in your financial life, as a significant windfall is on the horizon. The wanderlust bug is also set to bite many, igniting a desire to explore new destinations and embark on exciting adventures. Moreover, the social scene is abuzz with activity, providing ample opportunities for meeting fascinating new people. Keep an eye out, as you never know who you might encounter.

Capricorn: December 21- January 19.

Colour: Fawn Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 2.5.2.4.

Lotto Numbers: 12.19.15.24.45.32.

You may experience some changes in your career, such as a possible promotion or a shift in responsibilities. However, it's crucial to remember to prioritize your relationships with loved ones and seek their counsel and support during this time of transition.

Aquarius: January 20- February 19.

Lucky Colour: Navy Blue Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 2.4.8.7.

Lotto Numbers: 1.5.40.28.34.33 This is a time to introspect, evaluate oneself and make necessary alterations. The universe may be signaling a need for change, prompting you to let go of anything that no longer serves you.

Pisces: February 20- March 20.

Colour: White Lucky Day: Tuesday.

Racing Numbers: 5.6.4.1.

Lotto Numbers: 12.19.24.35.36.42.

As the future unfolds, certain individuals will have the pleasure of experiencing new and meaningful relationships that will bring them joy and fulfilment. Additionally, they will come across new opportunities to take their careers to the next level. Nevertheless, it is crucial to exercise caution and remain alert for any false friends who may be lurking around.

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KERRY KULKENS MAGIC SHOP 1693 BURWOOD HWY BELGRAVE PH 9754 4587 WWW.KERRYKULKENS.COM.AU Like us on Facebook

Page 46 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 47

Sport

VICTORIAN PROVINCIAL CIRCUIT IN FULL SWING

■ The provincial circuit has been in full swing, let’s look at what has happened starting with the first meeting of the new year – ECHUCA. It was New Years night Monday January 1 , at which saw the running of both the Echuca Pacing and Trotting Cups in a new allocated time frame which attracted a large crowd of holiday makers.

Both races carried a stake of $30,000 with capacity fields in each event – the Moama Bowling Club Echuca Pacers Cup a mobile over 2560 metres and the Arch Electrical Echuca Trotters Cup a handicap over 2530 metres.

The pacers cup saw Strathfieldsaye based Anderson Racing Team successful with former New Zealand 3Y0 Vincent-Hazel B Hasty gelding Our Vincent Can Gough who was able to defeat his more seasoned runners.

Trained by daughter Julie and driven by Jack Laugher, Our Vincent Can Gough starting from gate two on the second line settled four back in the running line as Mildura (Red Cliffs) visitor Jaxon Beach (Chris Alford gate three) applied pressure to the poleline leader Wotdidusaaay (Jackie Barker) before crossing at the turn out of the straight on the first occasion.

As soon as the speed slackened, Jack Laugher and Our Vincent Can Gough were off and running having little difficulty in striding clear with Alford content to take a trail.

There were a number of mid-race moves with All Da Rage going forward to park in the open momentarily before gaining cover from the heavily supported Ultimate Vinnie which followed him forward to race exposed.

Racing for the bell Tangoingwithsierra was off and running three wide from the rear with Magnetic Terror (one/four) following him forward with the pair trapped on a limb going nowhere.

Kicking away approaching the final bend, Our Vincent Can Gough had the race well in his keeping to score by 5.4 metres from Jaxon Beach, with Ultimate Vinnie meritorious in finishing third 2.5 metres away and All Da Rage a creditable fourth.

In quarters of 31.4, 30.2, 28.7 and 27.7 after a lead time of 68.8 seconds, Our Vincent Can Gough recorded a mile rate of 1-57.4.

The Trotters Cup was taken out by last years Boort Cup victor - 7Y0 Majestic Son-Wee Sun Lass gelding Double Helix for Great Western trainer Phillip Giles who races him in partnership with wife Tammy.

Bred by Cudgee (Warrnambool) duo John and Mary Meade, Double Helix with Jackie Barker in the sulky was expected to lead from barrier three but was beaten out by John Caldow aboard Sangreal which flew the tapes from barrier five to lead easily.

Immediately giving chase to assume control hitting the back straight, Double Helix was rated to perfection with no serious challengers looking the winner a long way out.

Turning for home, Sangreal eased off his back to give chase with Double Helix holding him and Jackie driving confidently, however Sangreal made a late dive on the post to get within a nose on the wire. Berriesandcherries (one/two – three wide to outside the leader, then one/one after Tripod went forward to race exposed) was third 14 metres back a head in advance of Grumpee which used inside runs from five pegs.

In quarters of 33, 29.3, 29.6 and 29.5 after a lead time of 75.7, Double Helix returned a mile rate of 2-05.4 in winning his 11th race (15 placings) from 73 outings.

Bendigo

JANUARY 6 - BENDIGO What a thrill popular Avenel trainer David Aiken would have received when his revitalized 8Y0 Bettors Delight-Lady Euthenia entire Max Delight snared the $75,000 (Group 2) Garrards Horse and Hound sponsored Bendigo Pacing Cup over 2650 metres and in doing so, brought up a hat-trick of victories.

Driven by Nathan Jack, Max Delight raced

by Tasmania’s Michael Maxfield settled three back in the moving line from the extreme draw as polemarker Serg Blanco (Ryan Duffy) led on his ear. Surprisingly the easing favourite Beyond Delight (gate six) after showing no gate

Harness Racing

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker speed and was eased to the tail by James Herbertson facing a herculian task, with Hurricane Harley from inside the second line following Serg Blanco.

With the pace nothing more than a dawdle for a cup race, it what was the “drive of the night”, Nathan Jack seized the opportunity and set Max Delight ablaze with a lightning burst of speed to cross and lead entering the straight with two laps to travel after it appeared that Serg Blanco was looking for a sit.

The field continued at an even tempo for another circuit with no moves being made in a most uninteresting affair.

In quarters of 30.3, 30.1, 28 and 28.3 after a lead time of 78.6 seconds, Max Delight kicked with Serg Blanco easing off the markers to issue a challenge with the pair having the race to themselves.

Holding on under hard driving, Max Delight held Serg Blanco at bay to register a half neck margin in a mile rate of 1-57.4, 2.5 seconds outside Code Bailey’s 2020 record. Hurricane Harley after using inside runs was third 5.6 metres away, with rank outsider Kosimo (four pegs) also using the pegs to be fourth 6.5 metres away.

A former Victoria Cup winner when held at Bendigo in 2021 due to Covid, David Aiken deserves all the accolades for having faith in the horse after a form slump that looked like he was a spent force a few months back.

It has been mooted that David and wife Colleen are to shift back to their home state of NSW in the near future and set up a stable at the Menangle training complex.

The $75,000 (Group 1) Aldebaran Park Maori Mile (feature of the night) on the same program over the true 1609 metre journey was a semi upset when Romsey trainer/driver Chris Svanosio’s very honest 5Y0 Trixton-Justa Phoenix Arcee Phoenix raced by the Finley (NSW) boys and other stable followers scorched out of gate two to lead holding out the raging hot favourite Queen Elida ($1.35) from gate four.

Rated to perfection, Arcee Phoenix toyed with his rivals to defeat Inter Dominion runner-up Mufasa Metro (three pegs – death last lap) by nine metres, with Queen Elida maybe showing the effects of a tough campaign most disappointing when 1.2 metres away third after trailing the winner. The mile rate 1-53.8 taking point one of a second off Sparkling Success’ 2018 success when also driven by Chris.

around $3.50 to start at $23.00 was successful in the Cup. Enjoying the run of the race from the pole on the back of favourite Earl Of Pembroke (another former New Zealander) which led from gate five, Invitation Only first up in Victoria since July travelled kindly throughout before using the sprint lane to blouse the pacemaker by a neck.

Hiranya one/three (Abbey Turnbull – gate nine) after going forward three wide uncovered for the final circuit was a strong third 4.1 metres back 1.6 metres in advance of Platinum Stride one/four (Ryan Sanderson – gate eleven) which raced in the open from the bell.

The mile rate 1-57.5 (last half 56.9 – quarter 28.3).

Bolinda trainer Brent Lilley snared the quinella in the Trotters Cup when 6Y0 Muscle Hill-Love Ya Doosie entire Kyvalley Hotspur (10m) raced by staunch stable client Jim Connelly under the banner of KPC Racing defeated stablemate Aldebaran Keepa also from 10 metres in a mile rate of 2-04.7.

Trapped leading the outside division as Daqueri (barrier two) led, Moran pressed forward and Kyvalley Hotspur had little trouble in crossing him with two laps to travel.

With no pressure being applied, Kyvalley Hotspur defied all challengers to register an easy 19.9 metre margin over Aldebaran Keepa (one/ two – three wide approaching the final bend), with S-A Trotters Cup victor Blue Coman (three pegs) third 3.8 metres away, with Berriesandcherries running her usual honest race to finish fourth after coming from the rear.

The last half mile was run in 57.7 – quarter 28.1.

Shepparton

SHEPPARTON – JANUARY13 One of the great provincial races each year is the Shepparton Gold Cup steeped in history and last Saturday’s standing start feature over 2690 metres sponsored by Neatline Homes was no exception with local runner Curly James the victor.

Partly owned and trained at Kialla by youthful Courtney Laker and driven by local David Moran, Curly James was surprisingly beaten for speed from the pole by the KerryAnn Morris trained and driven Kanena Provlima (gate four), one of two stable reps which flew the start, the other being Petes Said So (Joshua Gallagher – gate six), while another NSW hope Taipo (Brad Hewitt – gate five) was content to park in the open, with Petes Said So angling one/one being followed by Serg Blanco from gate three on the second line. Harley Hanover who was expected to follow Curly James from inside the second line was eased into the running line mid-field ahead of Max Delight (one/four from gate four on the second line).

Making a swift move three wide with two laps to travel as he did at Bendigo the week before, Max Delight was caught three wide when Hewitt would not give the death seat away resulting in Nathan Jack having to ease back to the tail of the field. Shortly after Harley Hanover appeared to strike a wheel galloping wildly and was tailed off.

With Taipo issuing a serious challenge in the last lap, he and Kanena Provlima turned on terms with Kanena Provlima kicking clear shortly after as Curly James after a cosy passage appearing to be struggling to keep in touch.

Angling away from the inside on straightening, Curly James driven desperately rallied late to gain a last stride half head margin over the JANUARY 7 – COBRAM After the oppressive heat experienced the day pacemaker which looked to have the race in his before, the weather gods were not kind to the keeping. Petes Said So finished on for third 7.5 Murray River town of Cobram who held their metres back with Taipo probably the run of the race when fourth 2.5 metres away. annual Cup Day program on Sunday.

In quarters of 29.9, 30.5, 27.9 and 28.3 after Despite persistent rain prior to and during the meeting, the program went ahead with the two a lead time of 78.6 seconds, Curly James a 6Y0 $25,000 features being the Jim Phillips Memo- gelded son of A Rocknroll Dance and Someone rial Cobram Pacing Cup over 2678 metres and To Love bred by Lauriston Bloodstock Pty Ltd, the Central Murray Credit Union Cobram Trot- recorded his 12th success in 36 outings returnters Cup, a standing start race over the same ing a mile rate of 1-56.8 well outside Spirit Of St distance and what a day it was for Goulburn Louis’ 1-55.6 set in 2022.

Valley based reinsman David Moran who won both events.

Much travelled ex-Kiwi 5Y0 Bettors DelightHAMILTON – JANUARY 14 Elegant Art gelding Invitation Only now in the The Western District held their biggest harhands of Kialla trainer Isabell Walsh despite an ness meet of the season when the Hamilton

Cobram

Hamilton

Sulky Snippets

Harness Racing Club staged the $30,000 Matthews Petroleum Hamilton Pacing Cup over 2160 metres supplemented by the 2660 metre Alexandra House Sports Club Hamilton Trotters Cup and it was Terang (South Ecklin) trainer/ driver Mattie Craven’s 8Y0 Rock N Roll Heaven-Localize gelding Fides the pacing cup victor when having only his second outing in two years.

Raced by a large syndication including some very ecstatic Tasmanians, Fides coming off a dynamic fist up victory at Bendigo a week earlier started from gate three on the second row, spending most of the race near last with the exception of bonny mare Sew What which had to contend with the extreme draw.

Jillibyjacksparrow (gate four) began fast to assume control from polemarker Wotdidusaaay with Radius (gate three three wide) and Highway To Heaven (gate five four wide) going forward to race exposed after Arggghhh received a great run through from inside the second line to momentarily trail the leader before coming away from the markers to be one/one then one/ two as Highway To Heaven eventually moved forward to face the breeze.

With plenty of non stop action, Ultimate Vinnie was set alight by Tayla French from midfield in the running line shortly after to occupy the position outside the pacemaker prior to the bell.

Racing for the bell, Fides was eased three wide uncovered to commence a forward move before gaining cover as Arggghhh came out ahead of him in the back straight to lead up the three wide train into the final bend.

Angling four wide on the home turn, Fides unleashed a phenomenal burst of speed to race clear in the straight and gain the day by 4.3 metres over Sew What which trailed the winner home.

Arggghhh was meritorious in finishing third 1.4 metres back with Ultimate Vinnie a meritorious fourth 1.8 metres away.

In quarters of 30, 31.3, 28.1 and 27 even after a lead time of 40 seconds, Fides returned a mile rate of 1-56.5. With an imposing record of 12 wins and 8 placings from 30 outings, Fides should he stay sound has many more wins ahead of him.

Not to be outdone, cousins Paddy and Jason Lee snared the Trotters Cup with 5Y0 Love YouThe Sun Goddess gelding Keayang Chucky bred by Pat Driscoll’s Yabby Dam Farms Pty Ltd. Stepping cleanly from 20 metres, Keayang Chucky raced by The Levarg Racing Group who have won more races than anyone can mention, stepped cleanly from 20 metres to settle three back in the moving line as stablemate Keayang Xena also from 20 metres raced exposed out side You No Ill Be Late (barrier two) in a spread out field.

Easing three wide in the straight racing for the bell, Keayang Chucky crept forward before letting rip with an electrifying burst of speed to dash clear with 800 metres to travel. Thirty metre backmarker Aldebaran Keepa was left lamenting when trying to follow him forward from the rear, but to his merit kept trying to run into second place under pressure on the final bend.

Careering away in the straight, Keayang Chucky greeted the judge by 19.7 metres from Mercenary which never got clear of a pocket until well in the straight from behind the weakening leader, with Aldebaran Keepa third 1.8 metres back 3.5 metres ahead of El Resamo (four pegs).

In quarters of 30.6, 30.8, 28.6 and 29.1 after a lead time of 83.1 seconds, Keayang Chucky returned a mile rate of 2-01.4 winning his 9th race in 26 outings which include eight placings.

- Len Baker

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Page 48 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Sport

TOP CLASS FIELD TO CONTEST FUTURITY

■ One of the Melbourne Racing Club’s major events comes up this month on Saturday, February 24, with possibly one of the best fields to ever contest the event.

Early favourite before nominations is the class galloper, Mr Brightside a winner of nearly $12 million in stakemoney, and without a doubt one of the best gallopers racing in Australia at present.

A winner of two Doncaster Handicaps, and the All-Star Mile, the son of Bullbars, has been a consistent type in all his races.

Prepared by the Hayes brothers, Ben, Will and J.D., he is part owned by a few Richmond footballers, among them recently retired champion, Jack Reiwoldt, who have enjoyed every moment of the class horse’s efforts. Wouldn’t you with the cash in the bank at the moment?

He was also an unlucky second in last year’s Cox Plate at the Valley, going down by the barest of margins, to the Hong Kong champion, Romantic Warrior.

A number of racegoers felt that he had just beaten the overseas champion, but it wasn’t to be.

Least of all, the Hayes team, who thought he had lasted to score.

As usual he won’t have it his own way, with many a top galloper expected to join him in the battle for the honours.

The former Queenslander, Alligator Blood, his main danger, has sustained an injury and may not race again.

Since joining the top team of Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott in Sydney, the horse hadn’t missed a beat.

He, alongside, Mr. Brightside, was surprisingly beaten by Pride of Jenni, a six year-old mare, by Pride of Dubai, prepared by Ciaron Maher and David Eustace.

It is certainly bad luck for connections as the seven-year old is all class, but we may never see him back at the barriers even as much as twelve months.

In winning the Champions Mile on the last day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, Pride of Jenni upstaged the likes of Mr Brightside and Alligator Blood, winning in good style.

She was coming off a win at her last outing prior, winning the Empire Rose Three-year old Fillies and Mares, over 1600 metres on Derby Day. Another with plenty of talent is Fan Girl, prepared by leading trainer, Chris Waller, who is one of the best mares going around.

She ran just behind the placegetters in the Champions Mile, and has been a model of consistency.

From her 23 starts she has won seven with seven placings and accumulated over $7 million in stakemoney.

She is right up there with the best, and will run a big race here if she goes around.

Another former international, Bukaroo, now with Chris Waller, was formerly who with world renowned trainer, Joe O’Brien ran a big race in the Champions Stakes, in the Melbourne Cup Carnival.

Finishing fifth after coming from well back, but whether or not he is good enough this field.

● Mr Brightside. Racing Photos.

She’s not over confident that the laser treatment will do the trick, but the team Gai Waterhouse and her racing partner, Adrian Bott, are hoping for a miracle.

I feel all horse lovers are hoping for the best, and all we can do is hope the laser does the trick.

Away from that over the next few weeks we will have a look at how the Blue Diamond is shaping up.

Ted Ryan

Trans Tasman

■ It was great to touch bases with one of world’s leading racing men, in Ben O’Brien, who was kind enough to impart some of his great knowledge on me.

His thoughts on his company Straight Up has hit the jackpot in the racing world, and is top reading.

He mentioned the thoroughbred industries o New Zealand and Australia re inextricably linked, especially when it comes to bloodstock Such is the level of trade and business be tween the two, an economic tremor-positive or negative in one country- will be felt across the Tasman.

So when New Zealand announced it would be investing significantly into its Summer Rac ing Series, adding a $NZ 3.5 million slot race expanding the Karaka Millions Series and cre ating a super Saturday with four Group One races in early March, if was a sign to Australia tha Kiwis were putting difficult days behind them Key to the sudden flow of cash has been the multi-bullion dollar 25-year wagering deal struck between New Zealand and Thoroughbred Rac ing and wagering company Entain last year.

What that means is that the Kiwis shopping a the New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale at Karaka, recently had extra incentive to invest.

This provides greater competition for the in ternational dollar, led by the Australians, which usually make up 60 per cent of the market at the sale.

We saw with the positive results at the Ready To Run Sale in November that the New Zealand Bloodstock Industry is imbued with confidence in the wake of the landmark Entain deal, and we can expect to see a similarly bullish attitude at Karaka, Rich Slot Race for three-year-olds highlight a massive boost to NZ Feature Racing A $3.5 million slot race is among a slew o racing program changes in New Zealand de signed to reinvigorate the country’s Summer Carnival from 2025.

It’s as excellent example of how the eco nomics of the wagering, racing, and bloodstock industries are closely linked.

Equine Welfare is a key challenge for the entire Thoroughbred Industry, and it was inter esting to see Racing Victoria implement a rule recently that will ban participants from sending any live horses to a knackery or abattoir.

Looking for a Professional to run the show?

An update on Alligator Blood’s Pastern injury: The specialist looking after the champion, Dr Anna Robson, has said that she is using Laser Therapy for about six weeks to promote the healing.

★ Compere/Host ★ Auctioneer ★ Promotions ★ A-Grade Journalist ★ Voice-Over Commercials ★ Race Caller All Sports, Race Nights ★ TV, Radio, Press ★ Respected Member of the Media

Ted Ryan Phone 9876 1652 Mobile: 0412 682 927 ● Alligator Blood. Racing Photos.

E-Mail: tedryan@australiaonline.net.au ted.ryan@optusnet.com.au

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 49

Page 50 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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STATEWIDE • MELBOURNEWIDE • LOCAL

Phone

Melbourne

Observer

Incorporating the ‘Melbourne Trader’ and ‘Melbourne Advertiser’

Classifieds 9489 2222

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PRINT EDITION DATES - 2024 ‘Hard copies’ available free through a network of outlets across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and selected country areas. Print edition dates in 2024 are: Feb. 7. Feb. 21. Mar. 6. Mar. 20. Apr. 17. May 1. May 15. May 29. Jun. 12. Jun. 26. Jul. 10. Jul. 24. Aug. 7. Aug. 21. Sep. 3. Sep. 17. Oct. 2. Oct. 16. Oct. 30. Nov. 13. Nov. 27. Dec. 11. Lodge your ads by 4pm Friday prior to publication.

PRINT EDITION AREAS Eastern Suburbs Edition. Boroondara (north), Knox-Sherbrooke, Manningham, Maroondah, Monash, Whitehorse.

Lilydale and Yarra Valley Edition. Healesville, Lilydale, Mount Evelyn, Warburton.

Mitchell Shire Edition. Beveridge, Broadford, Kilmore, Seymour, Wallan, Wandong-Heathcote Junction. Part of Strathbogie Shire.

North-West Edition. Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Hume, Maribyrnong, Melton, Merri-bek, Moonee Valley. Moorabool, Wyndham Northern Suburbs Edition. Banyule, Darebin (north - Preston-Reservoir), Darebin (south Northcote, Thornbury), Nillumbik (urban), Whittlesea (urban).

Regional Edition. Mansfield, Murrindindi (Alexandra, Kinglake, Yea), Nilllumbik (rural), Whittlesea (rural).

Southern Cross Weekly Edition. Bayside, Boroondara (south), Glen Eira, Kingston, Melbourne, Port Phillip, Stonnington, Yarra.

South-East. Cardinia, Casey, Frankston, Greater Dandenong, Mornington Peninsula.

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

ALL CAR advertisers must supply registration or Vehicle Identification Numbers. By law, we are unable to publish listings without those details.

BARBECUE. Gas. Five burner. New ignition assembly. Wheels. Very clean gas tank, full. VGC. $150.

Pascoe Vale. 0419 188 356.

F-I BEER BREWING KIT. Includes two hydrometers, air lock brewing containers, 1 x 25-litre, 1 x 10-litre sping loaded bottle capper. GC. $20. Hastings. 0466 252 967.

F-I BICYCLE. 7-speed fuldup bike. Used twice. Includes helmet, master lock and light. New. $100.

Ferntree Gully,. 0433 887 719.

F-I

CARAVAN TOWING HITCH. 3.0 ton. Ease lift, elite. GC. $200. Hastings.

0466 252 967.

F-I ENCYCLOPEDIA. World Book. Plus Year Books 80/ 81. Science Books 82/83 and World Book Dictionary A-K/L-Z. $90 or offer. GC. $90. Frankston. 9789 9634.

F-I GENERATOR. Petrol. 4stroke. 1000 watts. Ideal for camping. Lights fridge.

Small power tools. Little use. VGC, as new. $250.

Launching Place. 5967 4412.

F-I

REGISTRATION PLATES. Personalised.

MISUBI. B/W. Slimline.

VGC. $1500 or offer.

Frankston. 9789 9634.

F-I ROOF TILES. Dark brown.

Terra cotta. 150. GC. Free.

Launching Place. 5967 4412.

F-I STAGS ELKS FERNS. Loads of so many plants, indoor, outdoor. Ideal presents, rubber, bird of paradise. Hydrangeas, lillies, Bromelids, beautiful colours, ground covers.

Why pay retail? Special Canna lillies, red from $15. New. Noble Park.

0407 325 030.

F-I SPORTLINER VAN. With annex, microwave, double bed, sink, hot water, gas, hot plates, TV aerial, kitchen stuff, bedding.

Seats 3. Electric brakes very tight, 690,000-km.

Easy to tow. Year 209. GC. $13,000. Rosebud. 5986 6352.

F-I TOYS, books, records, DVDs, plants, clothese (emn’s, women’s, mainly 10-16). Plastic plates, knives, forks, dog bowls, jackets, toilet training, bird seed. GC and EC. From $2. Noble Park. 0407 325 030.

F-I

VHS TAPES. 4-hour running time. New. Never used. $4 each. Pascoe Vale.

0419 138 356.

F-I VIBRATION TRAINER. Wellness. Clare. Circulation Stimulator. VGC. $200. Frankston. 9789 9634.

F-I FRIDGE. LC 400-lt. Bot freezer, stainless finish. HT 1730, Wide 700, deep 660. 6 years old. As new. $300. Hastings. 0466 252 967.

F-I

BUNNINGS Complete Guide To Gardening. New. $10. Pascoe Vale. 0419 138 356.

F-I CARAVAN. 2011 Jayco Eagle Outback. Inner spring mattresses, bike rack, roof rack, non-smokers, stove unused, good clean condition. $20,000, price is firm. View in Bayswater.

Phone Dean, 0407 350 560.

F-I

LOUNGE. Leather. White, 2-seater. Had very little use. EC. $30. Richmond.

0404 956 682.

F-I MOBILITY SCOOTER. Front basket. Rear larger sealed bag. Two large new batteries. VGC. $2000.

Reservoir. 9460 1501.

F-I PARK BENCH. Wrought Iron Ends. Needs Wooden Slats. Handyman’s delight to put together. Needs a little TLC, paint. GC. $40.

Surrey Hills. 9808 9176, after 5pm is good time.

F-I

WANTED TO BUY AWA RADIOLA portable transistor model released around 1960-1961.

Brown colour preferred.

Round dial, plastic white.

Average to good working working condition. Will pay $200+. Beaumaris. 9589 1457.

F-I

WHAT’S ON MORNINGTON Dutch Australian Seniors Club.

Meets weekly in Tyabb Community Hall, Frankston-Flinders Rd, Tyabb on Mondays, 10am2pm. Morning coffee, games of Klkaverjas and Rummicub. New members welcome. Nel, 0414 997 161. Paula, 5779 8291.

PUBLIC NOTICES Land Acquisition and Compensation Regulations 2021 FORM 7 Regulation 16 Land Acquisition and Compensation Act 1986 NOTICE OF ACQUISITION COMPULSORY ACQUISITION OF INTEREST IN LAND The Minister for the Crown administering the Education and Training Reform Act 2006 (Authority) declares that by this notice it acquires the following interest in part of the land described as Lot 4 on Plan of Subdivision 111799 contained in Certificate of Title Volume 09068 Folio 410, being that part of the land shown as Lot 1, R1 and R2 on the proposed Plan of Subdivision 835812C depicted below: Interests Acquired: That of Zdravko Jelic (registered proprietor) and all other interests.

The acquisition is made pursuant to section 5.2.3 of the Education and Training Reform Act 2006 for the purpose of a new government school.

A notice of intention to acquire the interest in the land was not required under section 7(1) of the Land Acquisition and Compensation Act 1986 because the Minister has certified that service of a notice of intention to acquire would be unnecessary, undesirable or contrary to the public interest.

Published with the authority of the Authority.

FREE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Free non-commercial classified advertising is available for individual readers, selling items. Your ad can be up to 40 words. This service is available at the sole discretion of the Editor. Ads will appear for up to 4 weeks. Free ads are not available to businesses or organisations. Deadline: 4pm Fridays prior to Print Edition. You can lodge your Free Ad by: • WEB: www.AdvertiseFree.com.au • EMAIL: editor@LocalPaper.com.au • POST: Mail the form (available in this newspaper) to PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095.

Free Ads will not be accepted by phone.

SOME ADVERTISING RULES • All car advertisers must supply registration or Vehicle Identification Numbers. By law, we are unable to publish listings without those details.

• Any person or business advertising to sell or give away a dog, cat, puppy or kitten in Victoria must be enrolled on the Pet Exchange Register to obtain a source number, and must include this source number along with each animal's microchip number in all advertisements.

• Advertisers hould be honest in their dealings. Claims should be true, accurate and based on reasonable grounds.

WORK

For and on behalf of the Authority: Signed: NICOLE POPE Name: Nicole Pope, Director, Property – Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) Date: 11 January 2024

PENSIONERS: PART-TIME WORK FROM HOME

Press reports say that for single pensioners, the pension income free area is $190 a fortnight and for couples combined, it is $336 a fortnight. This means a single pensioner over Age Pension age with no other private income could earn up to $490 a fortnight from work and still receive the maximum rate of pension. The Local Paper may have part-time work (as ABN contractor) available for seniors to sell advertising space on a parttime basis, within these boundaries. Only experienced telephone sales people need apply.

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REGIONAL EDITION, MITCHELL SHIRE EDITION, LILYDALE-YARRA VALLEY EDITION

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PHONE 9489 2222 or 1800 231 311 ANIMAL SERVICES

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Star Tree Services QUALIFIED ARBORISTS • Tree Removal • Tree Surgery & Pruning • Consultations & Reports • Elm Leaf Beetle Control • Mulch & Firewood Sales Free Quotes.

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The Local Paper’s Melbourne Press Network publishes localised editions for 40 local government areas including: ■ North. Banyule, Darebin, Nillumbik (urban), Whittlesea (urban).

■ South. Bayside, Boroondara (south), Glen Eira, Kingston, Melbourne, Port Phillip, Stonnington, Yarra.

■ East. Boroondara (north), KnoxSherbrooke, Manningham, Maroondah, Monash, Whitehorse.

■ West. Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Hume, Maribyrnong, Melton, Merri-bek, Moonee Valley, Moorabool, Wyndham.

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REGIONAL EDITION, MITCHELL SHIRE EDITION, LILYDALE-YARRA VALLEY EDITION: PHONE 1800 231 311 CARPENTRY

ELECTRICIAN

GARDENING

PAINTING

CARPET SERVICES

ELECTRICIAN

HANDYMAN

PARLIAMENTARIAN

ELECTRICIAN

HIRE AND PUMPS

PORTABLE HOMES

EXCAVATIONS

JEWELLERY

QUARRY

CARPET CLEANING EMERGENCY WATER DAMAGE RESTORATION SERVICE 24 HOURS PREFERRED RESTORER TO ALL MAJOR INSURANCE COMPANIES • Move out clean a specialty • Residential air duct cleaning service • Tile and grout/high pressure cleaning • Upholstery and rug cleaning

www. steamatic. com.au

5797 2555 DIRECT 0438 354 886

CONCRETE PIPES

Ken Dickson Concrete Pipes rejects 225mm-1200mm in stock other sizes available

0407 298 636 Maroondah Hwy, Merton

CURTAINS & BLINDS

All general earthworks and excavations. Free quotes dams, houseand shed sites, farm tracks driveways, trees, fence lines and scrub clearing.

Wide range of machines available.

Give us a go we won't disappoint.

AH 5796 9129

EARTHMOVING

ELECTRICIAN

EXCAVATIONS

SEPTIC TANK CLEANING

T&J MITCHELL EXCAVATION TRUCK TRAILER 5 Tonne and 25 Tonne BOBCAT track machines concrete driveways and sheds site excavation - site cleaning low loader hay and silage cartage and silage grab. dams and driveway constructions experienced tradie Tony ph 0408 584 854

SEPTIC TANK CLEANING

FENCING

BOB WALLACE & SONS

Serving the Kinglake Ranges and surrounding areas for 25 years.

Family owned and operated business.

• Septic Tanks • Treatment Plants • Grease Traps • Portable Toilets • EPA Licensed • Yarra Valley Water Approved Disposal Site

ALL HOURS: 0419 131 958 yarravalleyseptics.com

LANDSCAPING

SEPTIC TANK CLEANING

R&J

SEPTIC TANK CLEANING REC: 13433. AU27974 Brad: 0411 875 207 apolloelectrics@hotmail.com Specialises in: • All electrical service and installation • Melbourne’s BEST Split System Installation.

• Free home site inpsection and quote • 24/7 Emergency break down service EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE AND WORKMANSHIP FROM LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS

All general farm fencing, cattle yards, sheep yards, vineyards, on site welding and oxy work.

Tree plantation ripping.

5 hydraulic post drivers and pneumatic drivers.

HAY CONTRACTING: Mowing, raking, round and square bales, cartage, loading, unloading.

GRASS SLASHING: 4 extra heavy duty slashers.

GENERAL FREIGHT: Hay, timber, wool, steel, grapes, machinery

GLEN (HORACE) McMASTER 5797 2921. Mobile 0417 529 809

SEPTIC TANK CLEANING TREATMENT PLANTS PORTABLE TOILETS GREASE TRAPS, TRIPLE INTERCEPTOR AND EPA LICENSED SERVICING THE MANSFIELD & MURRINDINDI SHIRES. CALL RYAN

0409 511 268

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 53

REGIONAL EDITION, MITCHELL SHIRE EDITION, LILYDALE-YARRA VALLEY EDITION: PHONE 1800 231 311 TANKS & GARDEN BEDS

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Star Tree Services QUALIFIED ARBORISTS • Tree Removal • Tree Surgery & Pruning • Consultations & Reports • Elm Leaf Beetle Control • Mulch & Firewood Sales

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20 FT SECONDHAND SHIPPING CONTAINERS A-Grade,Premium, B-Grade, C-Grade FREE CAR REMOVAL, CASH PAID SOME CARS Truck,Motorbike,Ferrous,Non Ferrous ,Farm Clean Up Conditions apply Tractor,Earth Moving Equipment,Caravan,Boats

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 55

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Victorian Rural News

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The Local Paper -Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 59

52 *UDQW 6WUHHW $OH[DQGUD a High St, Yea. Phone: 5797 2799. Mobile: 0412 346 169

1 Hamilton Hume Terrace, Yea. $750,000-$790,000 3 BR 2 Bath 2 Car garage 906m2 Beautifully Designed home that has never been lived in only minute to the High Street in a peaceful pocket of Yea with a stunning rural outlook. Inspection will delight.

Please feel free to call on 0412 346 169 to discuss or to make an appointment to view.

/LFHQVHG (VWDWH $JHQWV

Page 60 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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