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Racing Numbers: 9.6.5 Lucky Day: Green
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18,330 cases across Victoria
Professor Brett Sutton, Chief Health Officer. Photo courtesy: SBS. ■ Victoria recorded 116 new cases of Coronavirus in the 24 hours to Monday (Aug. 24), with the total number of cases now at 18,330.
The overall total increased by 99 due to 17 cases being reclassified largely due to duplication.
Within Victoria, 29 of the new cases are linked to outbreaks or complex cases and 87 are under investigation.
There have been 15 new deaths from COVID-19 reported since in the 24 hours until Monday.
Five men and three women aged in their 80s, four women and two men in their 90s and one woman aged in her 100s.
All of the new deaths are linked to known outbreaks in aged care facilities. To date, 430 people have died from coronavirus in Victoria.
In Victoria as at Monday: ■ 4028 cases may indicate community transmission ■ 3731 cases are currently active in Victoria ■ 629 cases of coronavirus are in hospital, including 31 in intensive care ■ 14,077 people have recovered
Elderly case numbers grow
■ Active aged care outbreaks with the highest cumulative case numbers are as follows: ■ 211 cases have been linked to Epping Gardens Aged Care in
Epping
■ 195 cases have been linked to St Basil’s Homes for the Aged in
Fawkner
■ 160 cases have been linked to BaptCare Wyndham Lodge Community in Werribee ■ 159 cases have been linked to Estia Aged Care Facility in Ardeer ■ 138 cases have been linked to Kirkbrae Presbyterian Homes in
Kilsyth
■ 119 cases have been linked to Cumberland Manor Aged Care Facility in Sunshine North ■ 118 cases have been linked to Twin Parks Aged Care in Reser
voir
■ 114 cases have been linked to Outlook Gardens Aged Care Facility in Dandenong North ■ 110 cases have been linked to Japara Goonawarra Aged Care Facility in Sunbury ■ 109 cases have been linked to Estia Aged Care Facility in Heidel
berg
In Victoria there are currently 57 active cases in residential disability accommodation: ■ Total resident cases: 13; Total Staff cases: 44 ■ Active cases in NDIS homes: 42 (13 residents)
Active cases in ‘transfer’ homes (State regulated/funded): 15 (0 residents)
Active cases in state government delivered and funded homes: 0
Key outbreaks with new cases include: ■ 54 cases have been linked to Peninsula Health
The Department of Health and Human Services is also investigating cases linked to the Melbourne Safe Injecting Room and the Best Western in Melbourne.
As at the weekend, key outbreaks with new cases included: ■ 211 cases have been linked to Bertocchi Smallgoods in
Thomastown
■ 158 cases have been linked to JBS Brooklyn ■ 83 cases have been linked to Australian Lamb Company in
Colac
■ 35 cases have been linked to Werribee Mercy Hospital ■ 35 cases have been linked to AusFresh in Broadmeadows ■ 21 cases have been linked to the Vawdrey Australia in Dandenong
South
The Department is also investigating cases linked to Princeton View Aged Care in Brighton, Estia Health aged care facility in Keysborough, a ward at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Western Private Hospital in Footscray, the Laming racing stable in Cranbourne and Channel 10 Studio in Docklands. from the virus
A total of 2,106,139 test results have been received which is an increase of 14,811 since yesterday.
Of the 3,731 current active cases in Victoria: ■ 3332 are in metropolitan Melbourne under Stage 4 restrictions ■ 232 are in regional local government areas under Stage 3 restrictions ■ 158 are either unknown or subject to further investigation ■ 9 are interstate residents ■ Greater Geelong has 88 active cases, Bendigo has 24 active cases and Ballarat has six active cases
Of the total cases: ■ 16,744 cases are from metropolitan Melbourne, while 1104 are from regional Victoria
Total cases include 8776 men and 9511 women
Total number of healthcare workers: 2744 active cases: 476
There are 1568 active cases relating to aged care facilities
The Victorian Government will extend a ban on evictions and rental increases until the end of the year, giving tenants certainty and security they won’t lose their home or workplace during the pandemic.
To ensure greater fairness –and support small local businesses – additional measures will also be introduced, with commercial landlords required to provide rent relief in proportion with the fall in turnover being experienced by eligible tenants going forward.
Eligible residential tenants and landlords will be supported with up to $3000 in rental payments as part of the Rental Relief Grant program, with new recipients able to apply for the full amount, and up to $1000 extra available for previous recipients.
“No one should have to be worried about losing a roof over their head right now," said Premier Daniel Andrews.
On Monday, the Premier an- nounced new laws which could extend the existing state of emergency up to September 2021. This would take the COVID-19 response further into uncharted waters, and represents a potentially concerning sign, says the Herald
Sun.
The new laws, planned for introduction to Parliament in a Bill on Tuesday (Sept. 1), will amend the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008. Cases by area at a glance ■ COVID-19 notificationsby local government areas were notified on Monday (August 24).
The first figure is for confirmed cases (ever), and active cases (current): ■ Wyndham, 1970, 380 ■ Brimbank, 1821, 334, ■ Hume, 1505, 247, ■ Whittlesea, 1127, 235, ■ Melton, 1025, 209, ■ Moreland, 939, 225, ■ Casey, 868, 167, ■ Melbourne, 854, 119, ■ Moonee Valley, 706, 85, ■ Darebin, 599, 193, ■ Maribyrnong, 529, 115, ■ Banyule, 433, 53, ■ Yarra, 427, 59, ■ Greater Dandenong, 418, 112, ■ Hobsons Bay, 388, 121, ■ Greater Geelong, 342, 88, ■ Kingston, 261, 81, ■ Monash, 259, 45, ■ Boroondara, 250, 41, ■ Stonnington, 244, 22, ■ Yarra Ranges, 237, 71, ■ Port Phillip, 230, 40, ■ Frankston, 208, 66, ■ Bayside, 197, 79, ■ Glen Eira, 186, 21, ■ Whitehorse, 183, 18, ■ Cardinia, 176, 30, ■ Mornington Peninsula, 163, 55, ■ Manningham, 162, 28, ■ Knox, 148, 24, ■ Nillumbik, 129, 39, ■ Maroondah, 102, 18, ■ Interstate, 100, 9, ■ Greater Bendigo, 97, 24, ■ Colac Otway, 97, 11, ■ Mitchell, 83, 19, ■ Ballarat, 61, 6, ■ Macedon Ranges, 57, 14, ■ Greater Shepparton, 49, 17, ■ Latrobe, 46, 11, ■ Moorabool, 33, 9, ■ Glenelg, 19, 2, ■ Surf Coast, 18, 5, ■ Golden Plains, 18, 0, ■ Wellington, 17, 3, ■ Baw Baw, 14, 1, ■ Warrnambool, 17, 3, ■ Horsham, 12, 2, ■ Bass Coast, 11, 1, ■ Moira, 11, 0, ■ South Gippsland, 11, 0, ■ Mount Alexander, 10, 0, ■ Murrindindi, 9, 4, ■ Mansfield, 9, 1, ■ Ararat, 7, 1, ■ Campaspe, 7, 1, ■ East Gippsland, 6, 3, ■ Mildura, 6, 1, ■ Overseas, 5, 0, ■ Swan Hill, 5, 0, ■ Loddon, 4, 0, ■ Benalla, 3, 0, ■ Northern Grampians, 3, 0, ■ Southern Grampians, 3, 0, ■ Central Goldfields, 2, 1, ■ Corangamite, 2, 0, ■ Gannawarra, 2, 0, ■ Hepburn, 2, 0, ■ Pyrenees, 2, 0, ■ Queenscliffe, 2, 0, ■ Strathbogie, 2, 0, ■ Wangaratta, 2, 0, ■ Wodonga, 2, 0, ■ Alpine, 1, 0, ■ Indigo, 1, 0, ■ Moyne, 1, 0, ■ West Wimmera, 1, 0, ■ Yarriambiack, 1, 0, ■ Unknown, 377, 158,
Total, 18,330, 3731
www.LocalPaper.com.au Your Stars with Kerry Kulkens
ARIES: (March 21- April 20)
Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1.3.2.5. Lotto Numbers: 1.12.26.36.34.45. By using that charm on all around you the chance or choice of a life time could present itself. Many singles could decide to make a permanent romantic relationship. Contacts from the past should be friendly.
TAURUS: (April 21- May 20)
Lucky Colour: White Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 6.2.3.5. Lotto Numbers: 5.12.26.29.8.11. Not wise to mix business with pleasure, almost anything started for this period had an element of success attached to it. sudden changes for many.
GEMINI: (May 21- June 21)
Lucky Colour: Violet Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.2. Lotto Numbers: 2.13.26.34.40.45. A very busy period in which most will have to be careful in making any decisions that concern others and their assets wiser to separate love and career dealings for now.
CANCER: (June 22- July 22)
Lucky Colour: Cream Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1.3.2.5. Lotto Numbers: 1.12.26.36.39.5 Many will be tying up loose ends and some will be extracting themselves out of difficult situations. On the domestic scene meant will be re arranging furniture changing address and their lifestyle, improvements are indicated.
LEO: (July 23- August 22)
Lucky Colour: Red Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 1.3.2.5. Lotto Numbers: 1.12.26.24.40.33. Think before you say anything that could lose support where you need it most. For many travel plans could be altered or deferred. Later in this period people could be more inclined to listen to your careful thought out plans.
VIRGO: (August 23- September 23)
Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.2. Lotto Numbers: 2.13.25.24.40.44. A lot will depend on how you handle the family budget, now is the time to pay bills and return favors. Check the small print before signing anything. Some could get caught between waring friends and find it hard to stay neutral.
LIBRA: (September 24- October 23)
Lucky Colour: Orange Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1.3.2.5. Lotto Numbers: 1.12.26.34.40.45. Irritations or outside influences could interfere with personal relationships, so keep your cool. Although this is a progressive period thing are not what they seem to be so get everything in writing.
SCORPIO: (October 24- November 22)
Lucky Colour: Peach Lucky Day: Green Racing Numbers: 9.6.5.2. Lotto Numbers: 9.12.26.35.40.45. Far distant places or persons could be important in your future planning. No, the time to take risks with any shared assets, avoid speculating on the unknown.
SAGITTARIUS: (November 23- December 20)
Lucky Colour: Silver Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2.3.2.1. Lotto Numbers: 2.13.26.35.40.45. Not too easy to keep the peace in any close relationship. Someone close could be experiencing problems and need your help. On almost all levels stability returns.
CAPRICORN: (December 21- January 19)
Lucky Colour: Pink Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.6. Lotto Numbers: 5.12.29.6.14.45. A very moody influence around you and you will need to make quite an effort to keep organized. Good chance of an opportunity to bring some of your dreams to reality.
AQUARIUS: (January 20- February 19)
Lucky Colour: Yellow Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 4.6.8.9. Lotto Numbers: 4.12.25.8.36.30. For the patient ones things are about to return to normal. If planning major moves ponder on who gets the most benefit, for now it is wiser to stay with the one you know best.
PISCES: (February 20- March 20)
Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 4.6.8.7. Lotto Numbers: 7.15.29.38.4.33. Someone could irritate you so don't take their remarks too personally. For those with the get up and go very many changes coming up and more success is indicated. Luck in a hunch that could pay up.
Local News Co-ordindate Preston lights: MP
The Bell St-High St intersection in Preston, looking west. ■ Traffic lights in Preston need to be better co-ordinated, says Craig Ondarchie, MLC for
Northern Metropolitan.
Mr Ondarchie told State Parliament this week on the need for improvements at lights inm High St and Bell St at various intersections.
“My office has recently conducted a community survey in Preston, and I am very grateful to all those residents who responded.
“Every morning Preston residents experience choked roads and frustration as the traffic is banked up. Residents have told me that it is a nightmare trying to get to work on time with the its previous involvement in a legal action against the State Government over North East Linkhas meant changes to the project that have improved the outcomes and reduced the impacts of the project to the Banyule community.
This statement came after Nola McDowell and Michelle Giovas spoke at last week’s Council meeting on the matter of the Superme Court case settlement.
“There will be continued work on behalf of the community to advocate for further changes to the project that will further protect the natural environment, preserve local neighbourhoods, avoid dividing the community, minimise health impacts and provide for real solutions to the transport issues in the north,” said a report to last week’s Banyule ■ Banyule Council is to increase its advocacy to the State Government about promised improvements to the Hurstbridge railway line.
At last week’s Council meeting, Councillors agreed to: ■ Step up its strong advocacy regarding the Hurstbridge Railway Line Upgrade (Stage 2) to ensure improved outcomes for the community are achieved with a specific focus on the following key components being included: ■ An off road bus interchange at Greensborough Station; ■ A shared user path to be provided along the rail corridor; ■ A taxi zone and pedestrian and cycling facilities at both Montmorency and Greensborough Stations; ■ General landscaping and urban design enhancements; ■ The potential for an upgrade at Watsonia Station as an additional scope, with delivery aligned to the NE Link project improvements at Watsonia. mThe Council agreed to write to Premier Daniel Andrews requesting the inclusion of an integrated public transport interchange in the new
morning peak hour and similarly, especially in the evening, trying to get home to their families is difficult as well. “The action I seek from the minister by way of directing the Department of Transport is to investigate the light sequencing at the intersection of Bell St and St Georges Rd, Bell St and Albert St ,and High St and Murray Rd so my residents can spend less time in traffic and more time with their families. Mr Ondarchie directed his Parliamentary question to Ben Carroll, Minister for Roads and Better outcomes on Link
■ Banyule Council says that
City Council meeting.
Artist’s impression of the North East Link. Pressure for rail line
Road Safety. Greensborough Station .
Local Briefs Rezza library move ■ Cr Gaetano Greco has called for better use of the old Reservoir Library building.
“While the old library building may have some defects the report should consider options on how the building could be economically restored and used for community benefit,” Cr Greco told last week’s Darebin Council meeting.
“Particular attention should be given to providing space to young people and local artist who are and will continue to face the brunt of the COVID-19 economic down turn expected in the coming years.
“Revitalising the old building will also help bring more interest and attention to the shopping precinct,” Cr Greco said.
Climate action ■ Banyule Council last week voted to: ■ Write to community groups and individuals who made a submission during the public exhibition period and thank them for their invaluable contribution to the Climate Action Plan, ■ Adopt Banyule’s inaugural Community Climate Action Plan (August 2020) after requesting officers to: ■ include a target of zero net community emissions by 2040 within the plan. ■ adjust the interim target for 2024 on page 22 of the plan having regard for the zero net community emissions target. ■ Consider ongoing financial support through future budget processes to help unlock community and business potential to deliver on actions within the Community Climate Action Plan. ■ Receive further annual reports on the implementation of the Community Climate Action Plan via the annual State of the Envi
ronment Report.
A key focus of the annual reporting will be to develop and continually refine the pathways to achieve the target in collaboration with the community. Ecosystem decline ■ A submission to the Victorian Legislative
Assembly Environment and Planning Com
mittee conducting a ‘Parliamentary Inquiry into Ecosystem Decline’ has been prepared with the support of expert community members from the Darebin Nature Trust and in consultation with the Darebin Creek Committee of Management. Route 11 extension ■ The age-old issue of extending the Route 11 West Preston tram service to Edwardes Street, Reservoir, looks likely to be re-activated.
Darebin Council has been advocating - for decades - to extend the Tram 11 route to Edwardes St at Reservoir Station.
“The Suburban Rail Loop, and the need to generate jobs and economic activity through infrastructure projects to recover from COVID-19, presents a timely opportunity to reinvigorate Council’s advocacy,” last week’s Council meeting was told.
“This report proposes an advocacy campaign for early 2021, to call for a Tram 11 extension, and to re-engage the Darebin community in this campaign.
“This approach also includes advocating for a connecting electric bus in the shortterm, which will provide an immediate lift in service levels while gathering patronage data to support a tram extension business case.” $30 mil. spend ■ Banyule Council says it achieved $30 million of spending on public projects by the State Government as part of the settlement of the North East Link legal action.
“More than $30 million worth of new investment in pavilions, sporting and community facilities to be developed in Banyule proximate to the North East Link corridor has already been agreed by the State Government and is currently being delivered. This includes projects such as the Binnak Park pavilion and sports field,” said a report to this month’s Council meeting.
Grand return awaits ■ The Grand Warrandyte’s taps have been switched off since March 23. Warrandyte’s local bar and eatery has not seen a closure of this length in its 120-year history.
If history is anything to go by however, the pub will emerge from Coronavirus with flying colours and with a shiny new beer garden.
Fire, floods and everything in-between has beset the Yarra Street establishment over its 120-year journey and while General Manager Peter Appleby is confident the Grand will re-open its doors when appropriate, he admits the lockdown period has been a tough one, especially in the early days of the virus.
- Warrandtye Diary
YVCA merges ■ The Yarra Valley Cricket Association will merge with the Ringwood and District Cricket Association in a move that will alter the sport in the Yarra Valley and the 114 year old association.
YVCA president David Peel told Star Mail that cricket had been diminishing in the Yarra Valley for quite some time and that it was no longer a growth area for the sport.
“In the current economic times, we’ve found that people who live in the Yarra Valley in the 18-26 age bracket are now working a six day week meaning saturday cricket is being lost to them,” Peel said.
- Mountain Views Star Mail
Here comes Ben ■ Young Whittlesea musician Ben Gillard hopes to brighten people’s days during COVID-19 lockdown, especially with his latest cover of Here Comes the Sun by The Beatles.
Ben, 12, said he had been playing guitar for about five years, and also played violin and trumpet in school.
He posted the cover to his music-dedicated Facebook page last month and it has more than 1000 views and several comments. - Whittlesea Review Scam: 6 charged ■ Wyndham Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a teenager and five men after executing warrants at properties in Tarneit, Truganina and Hoppers Crossing as part of an alleged car scam investigation.
The warrants were executed at five houses at 7.30am on Friday (Ayg. 21) with Police also seizing a number of items including documents and electronic devices.
Police will allege they were all involved in a scam, which has allegedly been taking place over three months in various suburbs across metropolitan Melbourne.
- The Local Paper : North-West Fawkner robbery ■ A Fawkner man was followed from his home before a stranger tried to rob him at knifepoint, stabbing his car window and threatening him as he made a dash to escape.
Unsuccessful in his bid for cash, the attacker, who had just fought with his partner, went on to steal inflatable Santas and electronic Christmas decorations, the County Court has heard.
Scott Harrison fronted the court on Wednesday, August 19 to be sentenced over the December 30 incident.
Judge Johns sentenced Harrison to nine months’ jail, with 229 days having already been served, followed by a two-year community corrections order including 100 hours of community work and drug and alcohol treatment.
- Herald Sun
On three wheels ■ Motorist Matthew Longey of Eden Park smashed into a golf course’s fence after almost colliding with an oncoming car, then drove home his extremely damaged 4WD — on three wheels. Longey was banned from driving for 16 months, and fined $1627.40
Go-ahead for elections
■ Local government elections will go ahead as scheduled for Saturday, October 24.
This follows advice to the State Government from Professor Brett Sutton, the Victorian Chief Health Officer.
“As Minister for Local Government, I sought advice from the Victorian Government Solicitor’s Office and Chief Health Officer as to how best to proceed while Victoria is in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic,” said Shaun
Leane.
“I also engaged with the local government sector to fully understand concerns regarding the impact of current restrictions in Victoria on campaigning, and relayed that I would act on advice from the Chief Health Officer.
“The Chief Health Officer has advised that October represents a period when risk is likely to be substantially lower than at present, and there are no compelling public health grounds for the elections to be delayed.
“The Chief Health Officer has also worked closely with the Victorian Electoral Commission and is satisfied that appropriate physical distancing, cleaning and hygiene and workforce planning have all been considered and integrated into the VEC’s COVIDSafe plans,” Mr Leane said.
Prof. Brett Sutton ‘Practically Green’ at Nillumbik
■ A new ‘Practically Green’ porgram is coming to Nillumbik next month with a series of sustainable events.
Re-imagine, Re-think and
Re-energise is the theme for Practically Green, which is run by Clean Energy Nillumbik and funded through Nillumbik Shire Council. ■ Dr Matthew Bach, Eastern Metropolitan MLC (Liberal), is concerned for the small businesses of Melbourne’s east and north-east.
He addressed a question to Jaala Pulford, the State Small Business Minister when the Legislative Council sat last week.
“When the hotel quarantine wave finishes and when we seek to finally reopen our economy and get back to work, we are going to rely on small businesses to do a huge amount of the heavy lifting,” Dr Bach said.
“And yet this government is failing to support them, with hiked payroll tax on July 1 in the middle of the pandemic, and it is offering no financial assistance to sole traders.
“My office is being inundated with calls from small business owners in Melbourne’s east and north-east crying out for greater help.
“No wonder one in eight small and medium businesses are set to close.
“So my question is: how does the minister expect sole traders and the smallest businesses to kickstart our economy post COVID, when the government’s own policies will force so many
Clean Energy Nillumbik
has been awarded the tender to deliver Nillumbik’s Practically Green events for the next three years.
First held in 2008, Practically Green continues in 2020 as a series of events to offer free, practical and simple eco building and lifestyle ideas to help people and their families live sustainably.
Mayor Cr Karen Egan said it is an exciting time in energy with so many new technologies and ideas available.
This partnership is one of Council’s initiatives that tackle
‘Practically Green’ returns to Nillumbik climate change and support residents in making smart energy choices.
“Many people want more action to address climate change and Clean Energy Nillumbik is demonstrating practical ways for the Nillumbik community to help make a difference,” Cr Egan said.
“Clean Energy Nillumbik has a program of free events planned for 2020 that will help you make your home more comfortable, affordable to run, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.” Events have been redesigned into different formats in response to the COVID-19 restrictions. This year, Practically Green will run with three key themes: Re-imagine: Sustainable House Day events - Saturday, September 19, and Sunday, September 20 ■ For more information go to Council’s website, nillumbik.
- Contributed Small biz needs help: MLC
vic.gov.au/Practically-Green
of them to close?”
Editor Ash Long first started newspaper work in 1969. He began writing for local newspapers in 1973. Over those 47 years he has kept extensive diaries and local photo files.
From Our Files - 100 Years Ago August 1920
Diamond Creek ■ A meeting to establish a branch of the National Federation League was held in the Public Hall on Thursday, 10th inst. Mr. W.J. Cook was elected Chairman. Lieut. D'Euyac gave a resume of the aims and objects of the League. It was decided to form a branch. Mr. S. J. Downey was elected President, Dr. Cordner and Mr. E. C. Leach Vice-Presidents, and Mr. Spencer Maggs Secretary and Treasurer. Messrs. Downey and Cook were elected Delegates. Committees were also elected. It is likely that quarterly public meetings will be held in the form of socials so as to bring the people in touch with one another.
Coming of age ■ The hospitable doors of "Dalkeith," the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Young, were thrown open on the night of the 21st inst. to between 30 and 40 guests, who were invited to the party given in honour of the coming of age of the eldest daughter of the house— Miss Agnes Young.
Among the guests were many friends of the family from not only all parts of the surrounding districts, but also from Melbourne.
Among the varied items of the evening's entertainment there were dancing, songs, recitations and games.
The floor was excellent for dancing, the singers in good voice, and the recitations most amusing. Mr. G. D. Nash and the Misses Young and Birch provided the music.
Miss Agnes Young, who is an easy first favourite with every one who knows her, looked charming in a pink dress made of some light material, and was the recipient of many handsome presents in honour of this day of all natal days, and as this happy event is the forerunner of a still happier one which lies in the near future—namely, her coming marriage with Mr. Charles Bates—she received the most heartfelt good wishes for her future welfare and happiness.
Mr. Bates' gain will be the loss of Christmas Hills. A sumptuous supper brought the happy gathering to an end at about 2 a.m., and the wish in each of our hearts as we left for home was, "Many, many happy returns of the day."
Mrs P. Ryan ■ The friends of Mr. P. Ryan, of Diamond Creek, will learn with regret of the death of Mrs. Ryan, who passed away on Monday, 16th inst., and was buried in the Nillumbik Cemetery on the following Wednesday.
The funeral arrangements were carried out by Messrs. W. G. Apps and Sons, of Heidelberg. General sympathy is expressed for the bereaved family.
Tennis Club ■ The Diamond Creek Tennis Club, which has been inactive since the war, has been reformed, Dr. Cordner has been elected President, Messrss C. Lawrey and A. Reeves Vice-Presidents, Miss Leach Secretary, and Mr. J. H. Negus Treasurer.
A concert was to have been held on Tuesday night, but was postponed owing to the death of Mrs. Ryan. It has been decided to hold it on Wednesday, 1st September.
W’sea Council ■ From Departmentof Agriculture, intimating that Harvest Home lane and Cemetery lane, Epping, had been release from quarantine --Received. ■ From R. T. M'Kimmie, Stiathewen, wanting to know exact position re the road through Mr Wilson's property. Crs Mitchell and Brock moved that the matter be left in the Engineer's hands.-Carried.
Grace Egan and Emily Egan in
Stories Beneath the Vale. ■ Australian arts company Phunktional Arts has gathered leading creatives from across the country to work with the diverse communities of rural Victorian township Robinvale on a film project called Stories Beneath the Vale.
The project is the realisation of the participation of Elders and youth in the Phunktional Arts programs over a four-year period.
Led by Phunktional's Artistic Director Gerard Veltre, local area co-ordinators and a mix of local and nationally recognised artists facilitated workshops with the young people of the Murray River township.
Their vision has driven the development of the storyline, script scenes and choreography of the work,
Currently being shot under strict COVID restrictions, the storyline spotlights the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island and First Nations Pacific Island youth.
Aged between 12-21 years, they have been supplied with equipment and are filming their own scenes with support of director Oriel Guthrie and other creatives from Melbourne via live video chat.
Uncle Kutcha Edwards, proud Matti Matti man has recorded the film's opening track, with Denise Scott, Stephen Curry, Nazeem Hussain and Steph Tisdell also involved in the project.
Stories Beneath the Vale is the story of a young Aboriginal dancer and choreographer Annette, played by Emily Egan, finding power within her art and her relationships and speaking up when it matters. "Community organisations, leaders and Elders in Robinvale had identified their young people as being at increased risk of social isolation, education and work disengagement and bullying both online and offline," said Veltre. “As we were about to embark on pilot filming, COVID-19 hit. During this time of uncertainty, disruption and social restrictions, it was impossible to continue the project as originally planned, but the need for young people in rural Victoria to connect to culture and to experience creative health and wellbeing activities were more important than ever.”
Together with the project participants, narratives and scripts have been adapted to reflect the current challenging circumstances as well as the creative process with the Director, Choreographers, Sound Designer and other artists, connecting and collaborating online.
Laid out over five episodes, the miniseries features original local music.
Stories Beneath the Vale pilot episode will premiere online in late September and it is hoped a further four episodes will be shot in the near future when normal filming can recommence.
- Cheryl Threadgold
Bye to Melissa ■ After 25 years working across many of Channel Seven’s flagship programs, including Sunrise, Today Tonight, Seven News and Sunday Night, presenter Melissa Doyle is leaving the network.
Also leaving is Weekend Sunrise sports presenter Simon Reeve.
Observer Observer
Published statewide weekly in the Melbourne Observer and all editions of The Local Paper.
Phone: 1800 231 311. Email: editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2020 VALE TOM TRAVERS
■ Highly respected Melbourne theatre identity Tom Travers passed away peacefully, aged 93, at the Parkview Aged Care home in Malvern.
Tom was farewelled this week in a funeral service viewed on Zoom by his many theatre friends.
Regarded by all who knew him as "a true gentleman", Tom was the Victorian Drama League's longest standing and continuous member, having attended the 'constituent meeting' held at the South Melbourne Town Hall on Saturday, May 3, 1952, which saw the election of the first council of the League.
In November, 1952 at the League's inaugural One Act Play Festival, Tom was awarded the Best Actor Award for his role as Dicky Bach Owl in Birds of a Feather, presented by The Therry Society.
VDL Treasurer Deborah Fabbro writes in her tribute to Tom that he held the office of VDL Treasurer from 1959 to 1966, and continued to regularly visit the Library until recently, hiring a selection of scripts to peruse, and entertaining the library volunteers with his theatrical stories.
Deborah also notes that as well as a skilled actor, Tom was also a playwright, penning two plays which are part of the VDL's play catalogue.
His first play, Spare Me Bloomin' Days, a stage adaptation of the larrikin verses of C.J. Dennis aka The Sentimental Bloke, was first presented at Malvern Theatre Company in 1992. He also wrote The Song is You about his favourite composer Jerome Kern.
In February, 2017 when Tom attended Beaumaris Theatre intending to perform in a fund-raising concert, he was instead surprised by a large gathering of theatre friends and family celebrating his 90th Birthday. ■ Theatre friends of Dorothy Parker were thrilled to see her appear on Channel 7's breakfast show Sunrise in a segment presented by weather presenter Sam Mac.
A veteran entertainer of over 50 years, Dot talked about her role of Frau Schmidt in The Sound of Music, and entertained with a few bars of song.
Dot explained later that on the day she was scheduled to appear on Zoom at 7am, and kept waking up during the night every couple of hours to ensure getting up at 5.45am to do her hair and make-up.
Sunrise sent Dot the Zoom link, all worked well and now she proudly feels tech savvy.
Dot is even celebrating her birthday on Zoom this week with her family who live interstate, overseas and in Melbourne.
Dot has performed for more than half a century in professional and non-professional musical theatre shows, cabaret, theatre restaurants and television.
As well as performing principal roles such as Dolly Levi in Hello Dolly!, Mrs Strakosh (Funny Girl) and Madame Thenardier in Les Misérables, Dot's versatile theatrical talents include costume design, wigs, hair and make-up.
Dot says this is the first year that she has not been involved in some form of theatre, both on or backstage, and doing pro gigs in clubs and pubs, stand up comedy and singing. "I feel that my life is at a standstill", says Dot. "However, I have been writing down memo- ries of my life, and if I can type properly, I plan Tom Travers. Photo: Victorian Drama League
A 'Tom Travers, This is Your Life' session was presented by Peter Newling, and many of Tom's theatre friends joined Tom on stage, including Kevin Trask.
Deborah Fabbro aptly expresses our loss of Tom: "Vale Tom. Our theatre world is a sadder place with your passing".
Dorothy Parker on TV
- Cheryl Threadgold ● Dr Anita Collins ■ During the time of COVID-19, many parents with children learning music may be wondering if it's really worth it.
According to groundbreaking music educator Dr Anita Collins, the answer is a resounding yes.
In her new book being released on September 1, The Music Advantage, Dr Collins draws on the latest international neurological research to prove the extraordinary benefits of children learning music.
While Dr Collins's name may not be a household one, she wrote and appeared on the ABC series, Don't Stop The Music, fronted by Australian singer-songwriter Guy Sebastian.
The Music Advantage explores how learning music helps a child's brain and well being, a fact supported by high profile musicians like composer of Matilda The Musical, Tim Minchin, and Choir of Hard Knocks founder, Jonathon Welch.
Dr Collins's premise was borne out in the Don't Stop The Music series, and emphasised by Guy Sebastian. "There was an indigenous kid whose attendance rate (at school) was 25 per cent. We stuck an instrument in his hand suddenly he had purpose, he was gaining encouragement, and his attendance went up to 85 per cent," recalled Guy.
But what about that perennial problem for parents of a child learning music, the lack of motivation to practise? Dr Collins sympathises but reassures parents that it's worth sticking with it. "As a young musician's parent, I understand the frustration of paying every week for music lessons, and in some weeks, feeling like the only time my child plays is in her lesson, she said.
But as a music educator, Dr Collins said that a 30-minute lesson a week at the age of seven really improves all kinds of brain processes, and has a really positive impact on language skills as well. "The brain development research has found that music learning is cognitively beneficial far beyond the music concerts and exams. Learning music is not a linear progression - it goes up and down with breakthroughs and plateaus."
So for harried parents of young music students, the message is to stick with it for the terrific brain development it will give your youngster.
The Music Advantage by Dr Anita Collins will be available from September 1 at
booktopia.com.au/the-music-advantageanita-collins
- Julie Houghton Emma leaves ABC ■ Emma Alberici is leaving the ABC and her current role as Chief Economics Correspondent after 18 years at the broadcaster. Her departure comes at the same time as a number of other high-profile female presenters and journalists leave the ABC, including: ■ Kellie Riordan, Head of ABC Audio ■ Sheryle Bagwell, Executive Producer and Business Editor of ABC RN Breakfast ■ Elizabeth Jackson, Presenter ■ Michaela Boland, National Arts, Entertainment and Culture Reporter
National Gallery ■ The NGV is launching virtual content weekly on NGV Channel on NGV's website. Watch: Live in-studio visit with Artist James Lemon.
Wednesday September 2, 6pm - 6.30pm, NGV Instagram Live.
Artist James Lemon explores and experiments with clay as a generative activity to develop works that ae sculptural and functional Known for his ceramic vessels with highly gestural surface abstraction , Lemon's sculptural forms are tactile, playful and dynamic objects. While crafted using traditional methods of hand-building and coiling, his pieces are also warped to express movement and gesture. Their upscaled and warped traditional forms challenge notions of functionally inherent to these objects and expose the material as the agent, a celebration of materiality.
Myf Doughty, Curator of Contemporary Design and Architecture NGV, will virtually visit James in his Northcote studio to hear about his practice, his work in the NGV Collection and what he is currently working on. James's work in the NGV Collection. https:/
/www.ngv.vic.gov.au/explore/collection/work/ 142309/
★
Watch: Live in-studio visit with artist Nikos Pantazopoulos ,
Nikos Pantazopoulos explores LGBTQ+ politic through an immigrant XIS Gay Lens. His work remedies art history and popular narratives that are influenced by hegemonic culture. Pantazopoulos's current research is engaged in Ancient Greek legacies and its influence on modernism, minimalism, relational, outsider art and on labour and its economic values in our society. Pantazopoulos's materials critique the classical traditions of the arts to repurpose them through a photographic data and technologically driven lens.
Dr Simon Maidment, Senior Curator of Contemporary Art, NGV, will virtually visit Nikos in his studio to hear more about his practice and see on what he is working.
Available to watch on NGV's Instagram on Wednesday September 9 at 6pm and available to watch on NGV Channel following the livestream.
National Gallery of Victoria 180 St. Kilda Rd, Melbourne
- Peter Kemp
ACCA Open ■ The first two projects from a new series of digital commissions launch this week via ACCA's new artonline platform.
Announced in April, ACCA Open was conceived as a way for ACCA to continue to support contemporary artists and will engage with online audiences during COVID-19 related gallery closures. Australian artists from all backgrounds, career levels and practices were invited to submit ideas for projects that could be presented through digital platforms.
Six projects were selected from over 340 submissions the first two of which was launched the week of August 17 - August 21. How Much Time Do We Have? by artists Madeleine Flynn and Tim Humphrey
An ever-evolving, live-generated visual piece of breaks, flows, segments, junctures and shifts made during the timeless state of the present evernow, How Much Time Do We Have? is a site-specific and time-based work made in the midst of a global pandemic.
Broadcast precariously from a single computer located at the artist's studio, the work will eventually fade from view when Stage 4 restrictions are lifted in Melbourne. This recent event provides a finite - if unpredictable - duration for a work that creates space for audiences to experience both alone, and in connection with others, in a virtual sphere, at a time when our physical worlds are limited.
This is a collaboration between artist and choreographer Amrita Hepi and writer, neuroscientist and psychiatrist Sam Lieblich.
Further updates, including the opening of Nirin Naar,he Melbourne satellite exhibition of selected works from NRIN, the landmark 22nd Biennale of Sydney, curated by Brock Andrew, are now available via
acsc.melbourne Australian Centre for Contemporary Art. 111 Sturt St, Southbank.
Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless Masons raise cash for Lebanon relief
Emmanuel Marabeliotakis and Gabrielle Marabeliotakis
Bob Pullin Julia Edwards
Barry Minster and Judy Minster
Cover of Cenarth Fox's new novel
The Sins of the Grandfather. ■ Melbourne novelist Cenarth Fox has released book seven of his crime series The Detective Joanna Best Mysteries starring Melbourne’s brilliant female sleuth in The
Sins of the Grandfather.
Jo faces two homicides, a kidnapping, a Mafia moment, and Mickey Spillane in Brunswick. The suspense, sexual tension and slapstick continue.
All details can be found on
www.cenfoxbooks.com
Cenarth Fox's crime series six-book set.
Dandelion Wine ■ Melbourne based ethereal electro-folk band Dandelion Wine have released a video titled Live At The Visionary Art Atelier.
This recording of a special performance live (with no audience) at a Bavarian style chalet in Melbourne, was captured on the Winter Solstice, in the brief period between Melbourne's lockdowns.
It took place on the last day that more than five people were permitted to gather at a private residence.
Live At The Visionary Art Atelier features performances of five songs from the band's new album Le Cœur featuring the band's trademark tapestry of instruments including lute, hammered dulcimer, cello, bell cittern, sansula, electric guitar, flute, mechanical beats and fat analogue synths.
Also featured is special guest Phil Coyle playing Persian frame drums.
The 28-minute video can be viewed on
https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=FdRtXt3NBoU&feature=youtu.be
- Cheryl Threadgold
Radio cutbacks ■ SCA has announced that it will introduce statewide breakfast shows across its national Hit network of regional stations. The Hit Network stations in Western Australia have already adopted this approach with a statewide breakfast show airing weekdays. The regional network in Victoria will follow.
