The Local Paper. Northern Suburbs Edition. Wed., Apr. 17, 2024

The Innovation Youth Centre in Bundoora has supported more than 500 marginalised young people with a place to connect and engage in innovative youth programs.

“The current Federal Labor Government has failed to renew funding for the centre, and despite making multiple visits and spruiking the benefits of this centre, the Allan Government has also failed to step up and provide financial support,” said a Liberal Party representative.

“As a consequence, the centre is now facing imminent closure – which would result in the loss of the only youth centre in the City of Whittlesea and deny hundreds of young Victorians access to a potentially life-changing service.

Sam Groth, Shadow Minister for Youth, said: “Labor cannot manage money and young Victorians are being punished as a consequence.

“This centre requires a modest amount of funding to keep its doors open. The Allan Government must now walk and talk and provide the Innovation Youth Centre the support it deserves.”

Richard Welch, MLCfor North-Eastern Metropolitan Region,said: "Colin Brooks, Lily D'Ambrosio, Bronwyn Halfpenny and Natalie Suyleman have all lined up with the Innovation Youth Centre for photo ops, but when it

● ● Richard Welch, MLC

comes to supporting these kids, they have walked away, these kids have been abandoned.

"Labor had photo opportunities, but it is incredibly cruel and unfair to turn around and not support these vulnerable kids,” Mr Welch said.

● Grant Souter

✖Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate Grant Souter. The 47-year-old is wanted on warrant for failing to appear at court for a traffic offence. Souter is described as approximately 185cm tall, of thin build with brown hair. He is known to the frequent the Northern Suburbs, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane areas. Investigators have released an image of Souter in the hope someone may be able to provide information on his current whereabouts.

● ● George Megalogenis

✔Author George Megalogenis will deliver Cultural Diversity Oration to be held at the Darebin Intercultural Centre on May 21 for World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development. Known for his commentary on local and global politics, economics, and culture, Megalogenis is billed as having a unique ability to engage audiences with his deep understanding of the complexities of cultural diversity. “Whether discussing the role of immigration in shaping Australia or exploring the implications of diversity for social cohesion, Megalogenis is a captivating and informative speaker, said a Darebin Council representative. Darebin Mayor Cr Susanne Newton acknowledged the importance of celebrating diversity and exploring it’s complexities. “I’m incredibly proud to be the Mayor of Darebin, a diverse and vibrant community where we celebrate difference,“ Cr Newton said. “Our community is made up of such a rich diversity of people joining us from 127 countries and speaking over 118 languages. We know we are stronger because of our diversity.”

✔Harriet Shing, Minister for Housing, this month turned the first sod at the site of a new $4 million social housing development in Epping. The homes are being delivered as a partnership between VincentCare Community Housing and Homes Victoria through the Labor Government’s landmark $5.3 billion Big Housing Build. The nine two and three-bedroom homes will provide safety and security for up to 23 people on the Victorian Housing Register. The homes will be managed by VincentCare Community Housing, part of St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria, which is celebrating 170 years of providing support and assistance to Victorians in need. The new homes are located within Development Victoria’s Aurora Housing development.

$1m upgrade at S. Morang

■ A $1 million upgrade to the Riverside Community Activity Centre and Reserve in South Morang will make the facilities more comfortable, functional and accessible for residents.

City of Whittlesea CEO Craig Lloyd joined Mill Park MLA Lily D’Ambrosio on March 27 to tour the sites.

The project, which is funded by a $500,000 contribution from the Council and $500,000 from the State Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund, is split into two stages.

The first stage is the refurbishment of the Community Activity Centre to ensure it meets the needs of current and future users.

Some of the improvements include the renovation of the consulting and lunch spaces to create an additional meeting room for people, groups and organisations to use.

The foyer area will be expanded and a kitchenette installed, while the acoustics in the community hall will be upgraded to assist those with hearing difficulties.

Work will be done to improve access to the centre’s external accessible toilet, as well as upgrades to the centre’s cladding and heating, ventilation and cooling systems.

Whittlesea Council will also continue its shift away from gas appliances as it works towards itsgoal of becoming a net zero emission municipality, by installing electric cooktops, ovens and hot water systems throughout the building.

Second stage of the project – the upgrade to Riverside Reserve – is expected to start in April and continue until the end of June.

The reserve’s social gathering place will get a makeover with the installation of a new barbecue, public furniture, drinking fountain and bike racks.

There will also be improvements to the timber access ramp to the playgrounds and refurbishment of the site’s large shelters.

Other works to be done include replacing the aged asphalt path with a concrete one, installing new precinct maps and signage, and landscaping and vegetation works.

City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said the investment in the centre and reserve underlined the Council’s commitment to providing quality community facilities at the local level.

“It is wonderful to see this level of investment, by both Council and the Victorian Government, to ensure the Riverside CAC meets the needs of its users.

“Likewise, our reserves are crucial in promoting healthy and active lifestyles among residents of all ages and abilities.

“These improvements here at Riverside Reserve will help to encourage more people to get out and about in their local neighbourhood and take advantage of everything this space has to offer,” Ms Wilson said.

URBAN TREE CANOPY TALKS

■ Opinions are being sought about the urban tree canopy in Nillumbik Shire.

Discussions are being held about the canopy in Nillumbik suburbs and townships by providing feedback on the draft Urban Tree Canopy Strategy 2024-2040

Nillumbik has the second-highest urban tree canopy cover in metropolitan Melbourne Challenges include extreme weather, changing average temperatures and rainfall patterns, bushfires and urban development continue to put pressure on our trees.

“This draft strategy seeks to protect and maintain our existing tree canopy as well as identify opportunities to enhance the canopy in areas where there are less trees,” said a Council representative.

The strategy provides a 15-year framework and has three overarching goals:

■ Goal 1: That Nillumbik’s urban canopy is protected and enhanced

■ Goal 2: That the Nillumbik community value and care for our urban canopy Goal 3: That a healthy urban canopy supports the wellbeing of the Nillumbik community.

Feedback closes on Sunday, April 28.

● ● Lily D’Ambrosio, Mill Park MLA Mernda line works

■ The State Government is ramping up a construction blitz to remove the dangerous and congested level crossing at Keon Parade a year ahead of schedule – with the new Keon Park Station on track to open in Spring.

Crews will work around the clock on the rail bridge that will take trains over Keon Parade – with buses to replace trains on sections of the Mernda Line from 9pm Tuesday, April 30 to last service Tuesday, May 7.

Trains will begin running on the new bridge on Wednesday, May 8, but will not stop at Keon Park Station while works continue on the new station. A shuttle bus will run between Ruthven and Thomastown to connect Keon Park passengers with trains. Works will continue at the new station over the next few months, including installing lifts and stairs.

55 YEARS AS NEWSMAN IN MELBOURNE’S NORTH

In September 1969, Ash Long , 12, became a newsboy for the new Melbourne Sunday Observer newspaper in the Preston-Reservoir area.

Some 55 years on, in 2024, Ash Long continues his lifetime of community service, as Publisher of The Local Paper group, which has localised newspapers across 40 local government areas covering all Melbourne suburbs, the Mornington Peninsula and beyond.

The northern suburbs is in his DNA. Born in Ivanhoe, started school at East Reservoir, lived in Thornbury and Eltham.

As a teenager, Ash Long worked in newspaper production and distribution, then widened his experience as an editorial ‘stringer’ for the Leader group.

He furthered his career as Regional Manager for the Brunswick, Coburg, Diamond Valley, Doncaster-Templestowe, Heidelberg, Northcote, Preston-Reservoir and Whittlesea area newspapers.

He was involved with the Australian Suburban Newspapers’ Association, later becoming a National Judge.

In 1983, he branched out on his own, developing newspapers across Victoria.

Ash Long at the start of his newspaper career in 1969.

In the intervening years, there have been successes (and a few stumbles!)

In 2009, he founded The Phoenix newspaper for the Black Saturday bushfire communities. In this project, $1.3 million worth of advertising was donated free for local businesses to get back on their feet.

In 2002, Long reinvograted the Melbourne Observer newspaper. It continues today as a free section within all editions of The Local Paper.

There have been other involvements with TV, radio and online projects. Decades on, Ash Long and his team remain committed to providing the best possible service to readers and clients.

CASEY DONOVAN TO STAR IN SISTER ACT

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■ In the biggest role of her career to date, Casey Donovan has been confirmed to lead the cast of the most heavenly of musicals, Sister Act, when it opens at the Regent Theatre in Melbourne from November.

Joining Casey in donning the habit will be the much-loved Genevieve Lemon in the role of Mother Superior.

“Although I never thought I would see the day when I put on a habit, I’m so incredibly excited to be joining Sister Act and to be playing the lead role of Deloris Van Cartier, played by the iconic Whoopi Goldberg in the much-loved films,” said Casey Donovan “Growing up, Sister Act was one of the movies that I watched on repeat. I love the film and am truly honoured to be part of such an uplifting, joyful, fun and feel-good production featuring the brilliant original music by multiple Tony Award-winning composer Alan Menken,” she added.

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.

Casey Donovan is one of Australia’s most versatile entertainers, making her mark not only as a musician, but also in the areas of stage, screen, presenting and writing.

She is a multi-award winner and nominee, including Deadly Awards, ARIA #1 Award, Double and Triple Platinum selling recording artist and has starred in theatrical productions including The Sapphires, The Flowerchildren, Opera Yarrabah, As You Like It, Rent, We Will Rock You, Chicago, 9 To 5 The Musical and & Juliet.

On screen from the age of 16, Casey was the youngest winner of Australian Idol and has since appeared in the TV series StreetSmart, How To Stay Married, What Does Australia Really Think? and crowned Queen of the Jungle in I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here.

Genevieve Lemon has appeared in many premiere Australian productions in a 40-plus year career including Steaming, Steel Magnolias, Seventeen, Miracle City, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Billy Elliot.

●

● ● Casey Donovan and Genevieve Lemon. Photo: Benny Capp

Melbournewide

POINT COOK Centre expands

■ Wyndham City is undertaking an expansion of the Jamieson Way Community Centre and Reserve.

This $11 million project is being delivered in three stages and includes:

■ Stage 1A – construction of a third kindergarten room, expansion of the existing kindergarten outdoor play area and redevelopment of the Maternal and Child Health spaces.

■ Stage 1B – a new multipurpose community meeting space, consolidated staff office, community kitchen and redeveloped entrance and reception area.

■ Stage 2. Compact sports venue. Outdoor sports courts. Stage 2 of the Master Plan is subject to funding in line with the Long-Term Financial Plan.

This expansion is being delivered in line with the Jamieson Way Community Centre and Reserve Master Plan that Wyndham Council adopted in April 2022, and will create a fit-for-purpose facility to better meet the needs of the growing Point Cook community

TRENTHAM

Spudfest soon

■ There’s plenty to celebrate and enjoy in the township of Trentham, from its rich red volcanic soil to its historic main street, but this May, it’s the humble spud will capture the spotlight, reports the Moorabool News.

“The 16th Great Trentham Spudfest will hit the historic town of Trentham, and surrounding districts, across May 4 and 5, bringing together local potato growers, artisans, music, food vendors, and local history,” said festival coordinator Kye Theobald

“Spudfest 2024 promises to be bigger and better than ever before, celebrating our region’s potato culture and history, but most of all, our community.”

- Moorabool News

CARDINIA

Gambling move

■ The Cardinia community is being invited to provide feedback on a draft document aimed at reducing gambling harm in the local community.

Input provided will help shape the final version of Cardinia Shire Council’s Gambling Harm Prevention and Minimisation Policy

The community is invited to view the policy and provide feedback via an online survey on Council’s Creating Cardinia website (www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay) The feedback period closes on Tuesday, April 30. Feedback on the draft policy can also be made via letter or email.

This is the final stage of community consultation on the revised policy. It follows two previous stages that took place via the Community Household Liveability Survey in mid-2023, as well as engagement in late-2023 with key stakeholders from electronic gaming venues and in the health and social services sectors.

STONNINGTON

Excessive music

■ Chapel Street venue Peachy Lopez Pty Ltd, trading as Three Monkeys , pleaded guilty to charges relating to excessive music noise levels contravening a planning permit, at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court. The venue was fined $750 without conviction and made to pay an $8000 costs order in the matter of Stonnington City Council vs Peachy Lopez Pty Ltd.

City of Stonnington Mayor , Cr Joe Gianfriddo, said that the Council takes contraventions of planning permits seriously and entertainment venue operators must adhere to their planning permit conditions. Failure to do so can lead to a planning infringement notice or enforcement action.

“Council’s planning investigation officers carry out regular late-night inspections of entertainment venues, especially in the Chapel Street precinct, to ensure that venues are complying with their planning permits and that residents are not being detrimentally affected by excessive music noise,” he said.

STOLEN CREDIT CARDS USED IN SPENDING SPREE

● ● Police want to speak with this woman about use of stolen credit cards.

■ Police are appealing for public assistance to identify two thieves who used a stolen credit card to purchase items in Dandenong

Police have been told an unknown man and woman stole the credit card from a parked car on Fugosia St, Doveton. Officers believe the stolen cards were then used to purchase items at multiple petrol stations in the Dandenong and Dandenong South areas.

Police have released images of a man and a woman who they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.

The woman perceived to be Caucasian in appearance, in her early 20s and is of slim build.

She was wearing an orange hooded jumper and black leggings.

The man is also perceived to be Caucasian in appearance, and is of slim build with brown hair and a moustache.

He was wearing an orange hooded jumper, a black T-shirt and grey tracksuit pants.

MANSFIELD Fatal crash

■ Police are investigating a fatal collision in Mansfield on Thursday afternoo, April 4.

It is believed that a truck collided with a car near the intersection of Mount Buller Rd and Mansfield-Woods Point Rd about 3pm.

The driver of the car died at the scene. The passenger was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

The driver of the truck stopped at the scene and was assisting police with their enquiries.

WESTERN SUBURBS

4 charged

■ Detectives from the Financial Crime Squad have charged four men as part of an investigation into an organised crime syndicate allegedly committing a series of complex frauds and deceptions totalling almost $4 million.

Statewide Observer Melbourne

SEYMOUR

Crashed into tree

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash in Seymour on Thursday morning, April 4.

It is believed a vehicle was travelling along Kobyboyn Rd when it crashed into a tree about 7.30am.

The driver, a sole occupant of the vehicle, died at the scene.

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

WARRNAMBOOL New clubhouse

■ Golf enthusiasts can now enjoy a new multi-million dollar facility in the heart of Warrnambool.

The Warrnambool Golf Club opened its modern clubhouse and its members couldn’t be prouder.

Originally anticipated to cost around $5.5 million, estimates have now put the project at closer to $7.5 million.

“We had a strategic plan back in 2019 to develop a concept and feasibility study for a new clubhouse,” said Ashlee Scott, Club General Manager.

- Warrnambool Weekly

Investigators will allege the syndicate was fraudulently obtaining or attempting to obtain mobile phones – worth over $2.5 million – which were subsequently shipped overseas, primarily to Russia

During the 18-month investigation, Police also uncovered two allegedly fraudulently obtained mortgages and a fraudulently obtained vehicle worth at least $1.36 million.

The quartet was arrested by Police and collectively charged with almost 100 offences, including:

■ A 38-year-old Keilor Downs man, who was charged with 37 counts of obtain property by deception, knowingly deal proceeds of crime and deal property suspected proceeds of crime,

■ A 33-year-old Taylors Lakes man, who was charged with 37 counts of obtain property by deception, three counts of obtain financial advantage by deception, knowingly deal proceeds of crime and three counts of deal property suspected proceeds of crime,

■ A 32-year-old Sydenham man, who was charged with negligently deal proceeds of crime and deal property suspected proceeds of crime, and

■ A 69-year-old Melton man, who was charged with 12 counts of obtain property by deception, recklessly deal proceeds of crime and deal property suspected proceeds of crime.

All four were bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on April 8.

MORN. PENINSULA Visitor bid

■ Mornington Peninsula Shire has announced its newest tourism initiative: The Magical Mornington Peninsula – Taste, Play, Stay campaign.

In collaboration with local tourism businesses, The Magical Mornington Peninsula is a showcase of experiences that embody the core of Taste, Play and Stay.

Running through April to July, this campaign invites both the community and visitors to explore further and stay longer, designed to help counter seasonal visitor fluctuations, and inspire year-round exploration.

SAN REMO

Target topped

■ San Remo CFA and SES, along with Jim's Bait and Tackle and the San Remo Hotel joined together for a megafundraiser for this year's Good Friday Appeal

They raised $53,000, smashing last year's total of $35,000.

The one dark cloud on an otherwise brilliant day came when someone hacked into the San Remo Hotel's Facebook page, forcing them to shut it down, so they were unable to keep promoting the fundraising efforts on social media.

- Phillip Island and San Remo Advertiser

MORWELL

News boss dies

■ Bruce Ellen, 65, Managing Director of the Latrobe Valley Express and Gippsland Times, has died of cancer.

A funeral service was held on Friday afternoon, April 5, in Morwell.

Mr Ellen, part of the family that operates the Sunraysia Daily, Midland Express and Castlemaine Mail newspapers, also had his own investments in newspapers in South Australia and Queensland.

EUROA $¼-mil. for CEO

■ Peter Stephenson will earn over a quarter of a million dollars for his role as Strathbogie Shire Council’s administrator, says the Wangaratta Chronicle.

“His ratepayer-funded remuneration of $254,300 is equal to what ratepayers would pay in one year for seven councillors,” reported journalist Darren Chaitman.

“The part-time role requires a minimum of three days of work per week, but the remuneration is not pro-rata, meaning he will be paid the full amount.

“The payment was set by Local Government Minister Melissa Horne and is detailed in an attachment to last month’s council meeting agenda.

“Mr Stephenson’s appointment as administrator began on December 6, 2023, and will end on the day of the next council election, which will take place in October 2024.”

- Wangaratta Chronicle

EAST GIPPSLAND

Telstra collaborates

■ “The ongoing collaborative work between East Gippsland Shire Council and Telstra continued with a visit from chief executive officer Vicki Brady and her team, and representatives from NBNCo,” reported the Bairnsdale Advertiser.

“The thought-provoking update and discussions included an overview of some of the changes that have been made to the delivery of telecommunication services in the region since the 2019-20 fires, including infrastructure upgrades to facilitate 3G to 4G/ 5G, and the delivery of a further 18 new mobile sites coming online in East Gippsland, thanks in part to advocacy efforts.

“The discussion also focused on some of recent learnings from the recent storm event where power failures led to extensive telecommunications outages and the information isolation of many communities.

“Telstra was able to indicate a strong understanding of the needs of the community and shared some of the work they are trialling to improve services to East Gippslanders.”

- Bairnsdale Advertiser

Broome Beach Resort welcomes all guests to this relaxing retreat, situated at Cable Beach in the magnificent Western Australian coastal town of Broome. Within a short leisurely stroll to the iconic Cable Beach, Day Spas, restaurants, cafes and bars, Broome Beach Resort is the ideal 4½ star family resort. Set amongst lush, tropical gardens, each of our fully selfcatering, air-conditioned 1, 2 or 3 bedroom apartments are well appointed and feature full kitchen and laundry facilities, a spacious open plan dining and living area, a private verandah and free WIFI and FOXTEL. Free off-street parking is also available for in-house guests' vehicles.

Ash on Wednesday

ALP branch stacking claim

■ Darebin Council’s

Cr Tim Laurence claims that local branches of the Labor Party have been improperly ‘stacked’ to an “Industrial scale”.

“The under investment in Resevoir, Kingsbury, Bundoora and Preston by all three levels of government is not accidental it is structural,” Cr Laurence said.

“ The Labor Party was once a mass party but it was captured by factions 40 years back.

“This tiny group of yuppy elites like to live in expensive parts of our city and they control preselections via branch stacking with naïve uneducated migrants.

“This has led to most members being in the south of this city while maintaining control of the north.

“The payment of other people’s membership fees is a feature of branch stacking.

“This practice is against the rules of Labor but not always illegal.

“It steps into the illegal realm when ‘warehousing’ is undertaken and AEC and false enrolments occur.

“This is jail time zone - as we have seen in Queensland

“The ‘grey corruption’ of pork barrelling is not defined as corruption in Victoria but it is finally being pursued at the Federal level.

“In Victoria the outgoing Independent Broad-based Anticorruption Commission chief stated that IBAC needs to be able to investigate pork barrelling and conflicts of interest.

“Voters and inde-

pendent candidates need to understand that the uneven investment between the south of the city and the north is a product of industrial scale branch stacking in Labor and a structural problem with the Greens where their city wide membership that is also concentrated in the south dictates both candidates and policies.

“The situation with Reservoir Pool and Clements Reserve is caused by the two main parties in this city which is to do with the undemocratic nature of both Labor and Greens.

“Clements Reserve should have been transferred at no cost or little cost to the community back in the 1980s when freeway plans were scrapped.

“Instead we have had a number of State MPs who were too busy branch stacking to actually secure the site.

“The lead contaminated part is 80 per cent State Government owned.

“Pork barrelling is a two edged form of grey corruption as it misallocates funds to wealthy areas and robs poorer areas of basic infrastructure.

“It is the exact opposite of needs based funding.

“In Council we did briefly break this pattern between 2008 and 2016 when with Cr Greco and myself were able to capture 55 per cent of capital spending in the top third of the city. “But before that period and after that time we see chronic under investment at all three levels of government,” Cr Laurence said.

New roof for netball

■ Construction of a roof for courts one and two at Diamond Creek netball courts is underway.

The roof construction is funded via $1 million from the State Government and a $652,400 Nillumbik Council contribution.

The addition of a roof over the two courts enables matches to be played in all weather. A new pavilion and upgrades to lighting have been completed in recent years.

Hit brick wall

■ Police are appealing for witnesses after a stolen car crashed into a brick fence in Preston on Saturday night (Apr. 13).

It is understood that a stolen white VW Tiguan crashed through a fence at a property on High St about 10.45pm.

Investigators were told that three men fled the scene following the crash.

Despite police responding swiftly and conducting a thorough search of the neighbourhood, the offenders were not located.

Incorporating the traditions of the Heidelberg City News (Est. Mar. 26, 1897), Heidelberger (Est. Nov. 12, 1958) and Evelyn Observer (Est. Oct. 31, 1873). The Heidelberger area comprises Bellfield, Darebin, Eaglemont, Heidelberg, Heidelberg Heights, Heidelberg West, Ivanhoe, Ivanhoe East, Macleod, Rosanna, Watsonia, Viewbank and Yallambie. Banyule is home to more than 121,865 people, living in approximately 50,223 homes.

Incorporating the traditions of the Northcote Budget (Est. 1888) Northcote Budget area comprises Alphington, Clifton Hill, Collingwood, Croxton, Dennis, Fairfield, Fitzroy, Fitzroy North, Merri, Northcote, Thornbury and Westgarth. The City of Darebin is home to more than 146,719 people, living in approximately 63,562 homes.

NILLUMBIK

Incorporating the traditions of the Heidelberg City News (Est. Mar. 26, 1897), Diamond Valley News (Est. 1959) Evelyn Observer (Est. Oct. 31, 1873), and Eltham & Whittlesea Shires Advertiser The Diamond Valley News area comprises Briar Hill, Eltham, Greensborough, Lower Plenty, Montmorency and St Helena. Nillumbik Shire is home to more than 64,659 people, living in approximately 21,753 homes.

WHITTLESEA

Incorporating the traditions of

the Whittlesea Post (Est. 1935), Whittlesea Chronicle, Whittlesea Advertiser, and Eltham & Whittlesea Shires Advertiser, Evelyn Observer (Est. Oct. 31, 1873).

Whittlesea Post area comprises Bundoora, Epping, Epping North, Lalor, Mill Park, Thomastown, South Morang, Wollert. The City of Whittlesea is home to more than 197,491 people, living in approximately 71,014 homes.

Have a free copy of the online edition sent to your email address each week:

I’m A Refugee, Get Me out Of Here

● ● Samuel

Gebreselassie

■ Award-winning Samuel Gebreselassie presents I'm a Refugee ... Get Me Out of Here in the Melbourne International Comedy Festival until Sunday, April 21 at the Chinese Museum - Tea Room in Melbourne. Sam was just a child in 1998 when his family escaped a war-torn Ethiopia for a Sudanese refugee camp, before finding themselves in New Zealand, thanks to the UN's refugee program.

Today, Sam is one of Australia's rising comedy stars, a multi-award-winning comedian and producer making his way across the ditch to share his unique origin story and outsider perspective of the world.

Performance Dates: Until Sat. April 20 at 6pm; Sun. April 21 at 5pm

Venue: Chinese Museum - Tea Room, 22 Cohen Pl, Melbourne

Duration: 50 minutes

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Pass The Parcel

■ Pass The Parcel is advertised with the phrase ‘Life can be disappointing, but does a party game have to be?’ This show lives up to this theme questioning the very essence of this popular party game, whether losing is an important lesson in life making winning sweeter, or whether the philosophy of sharing is caring is more important.

With this show we all come away winners, whether it be gaining a prize from unwrapping a layer or enjoying the clever, unique scenes presented to us.

Pass the Parcel is an original concept presented by two talented actors Meg Taranto and Elliot Wood. Both physical, energetic, personable, clever performers. It is fifty minutes of joy, and when not laughing I was smiling.

The show is a mixture of skit, stand up , physical theatre, audience interaction, game show. Whilst everyone on our night participated there is a genuine, respectful option to opt out , ‘spectate’ only.

The actors were well rehearsed, many moments relying on precision – they did not miss a beat.

There is an obvious rapport/ chemistry between these two performers ,allowing the audience to feel comfortable, being a part of the game.

Taranto and Wood both had their shining moments, Elliot with his precise ‘butter monologue’ was spot on, clever, funny, unique – a comedian to look out for in the future.

Pass The Parcel is a high energy show , funny , thought provoking, original. With many comedy acts to choose from this is certainly one to unwrap - you will not be disappointed.

- Review by Elizabeth Semmel

Media Flashes

■ Michelle Bowes has joined The Australian Financial Review as a Wealth Reporter.

■ Sue Lannin has been appointed Editor of Investment Magazine. She joins the publication after 20 years at the ABC , where she reported on financial markets and the economy for national radio and television programs.

■ Carolyn Hiblen has finished as Editorin-Chief of Foxtel Magazine

■ Georgina Noack has started as a Senior Digital Producer at The Nightly. She was recently a Reporter for NewsLocal and, prior to that, a General News Reporter at news.com.au

SHARE HOUSE THE MUSICAL

■ Multi award-winning singer, songwriter and comedian Jude Perl presents the premiere of Share House: the Musical at Arts Centre Melbourne's Fairfax Studio from May 16-19.

Featuring a 15-piece orchestra, the comedymusical is based on Perl’s solo show Roommates: The Musical (winner of the Green Room Award 2018 for Best Original Songs).

Share House: The Musical navigates the gruelling (and sometimes comical) complexities of house-sharing.

Joining Perl onstage is Isabelle David, and together they star as Lucy and Jane, childhood friends and long-term roommates.

Anita Mei La Terra joins the cast as Alice, a new third housemate whose persistent optimism grates on the pessimistic Jane and threatens to derail the delicately balanced household equilibrium.

Perl, Davis and Mei La Terra are joined by Jasmine Tuvey and Amie Zwag as Young Lucy and Young Jane . Direction is from Brendan Tsui.

Jude Perl says: "What's really exciting to me about the newly developed version of the show, is that those symbolic characters from Roommates: The Musical are now actual characters, being brought to life by real incredible human actors.

“The story has shifted to highlighting the value of being around people who think and live differently to you. And what better setting to talk about tolerance and acceptance than a dilapidated Melbourne share house."

Share House: The Musical is presented by Arts Centre Melbourne as part of its commitment to supporting upcoming Australian talent.

Performance Details: May 16-19

Venue: Fairfax Studio, Arts Centre Melbourne Bookings: artscentremelbourne.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Hold Me Closer

Tony Danza

■ Queensland-based dance company The Farm presents Hold Me Closer Tony Danza at Monash Performing Arts Centres for four shows from May 1-3.

Commissioned by MPAC and making its Victorian premiere, Hold Me Closer Tony Danza is an immersive dance-theatre show that confronts a world driven by information overload. Tony asks how we can still connect with each other when we feel so far apart? In line with their ethos, The Farm crosses art forms and genres to express what it is like to live in this time, on this planet.

The show suggests that a commonly misheard song lyric contains a deeper proposition about how we form meaning and a provocation that perhaps our understanding of the world is intrinsically flawed.

With a strong satirical edge, Hold Me Closer Tony Danza asks the audience to pick a side, show their true colours, and get ready for a danceoff as if their lives depend on it.

This one-hour ride asks the audience to feel brave enough to participate in the dance-off where they will sometimes be asked to stand and move around the space with seating available if required.

Hold Me Closer Tony Danza features dancer, choreographer and founding member of The Farm, Kate Harman. Kate has created and performed in works within the realms of dance, theatre, circus, performative installation and in projects created with amateurs and young people.

She is a frequent collaborator with The Farm and with them has created the works Cockfight, The Ninth Wave, Throttle and Tide. Through her work with The Farm, Kate has won a Helpmann, Drovers and most recently an Australian Dance Award.

Kate will be joined by choreographer and dancer Oli Mathieson. Oli has worked with The New Zealand Dance Company performing in What They Said, choreographed by Melbourne

● ● Jude Perl in Share House: The Musical. Photo: Nick Manuell choreographer Jo Lloyd, which premiered in Tempo Dance Festival 2022. Oli has also worked with Movement Art Practice in residence to research his work Full Digital Upload

Hold Me Closer Tony Danza is directed by The Farm’s co-artistic director Gavin Webber. Throughout his career, Gavin Webber has worked between Australia and Europe and directed theatre, dance, circus, film and installation. He took The Farm from regional Australia to national and international touring and back to Europe to join PVCtanz in Germany

Venue: David Li Sound Gallery, The Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts, 48 Exhibition Walk, Clayton

Performance Dates and Times: May 1 and May 3 at 7.30pm, May 2 at 1pm and 7.30pm

Pricing: $20 – $39

Bookings: https://www.monash.edu/performing-arts-centres/event/hold-me-closertony-danza/

- Cheryl Threadgold

Comedy Roulette

■ Comedy Roulette - Spin that Wheel is being presented as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival until April 21 at the Trades Hall, Carlton.

Described as a 'standup comedy show with a spontaneous twist', the audience spins the wheel and comedians crack improvised punchlines inspired by the topics the wheel lands on.

A rotating lineup of Melbourne comedians will be showcased, including those who have been on TV and radio and local comedy sensations.

Hosted by Mumbai’s Kru Harale and Estonian performer Olga Loitsenko, this show features acts such as He Huang, Mike Goldstein, Dane Simpson, Danielle Walker, Michael Shafar, Chris Ryan, Takashi Wakasugi, Rowan Thambar and many more.

Performance Dates: Until April 21 (no show on Wednesdays)

Times: Mon.-Sat .9pm, Sun. 8pm

Venue: Trades Hall, 54 Victoria St., Carlton.

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

● ● Digital editions of the Melbourne Observer are published weekly, FebruaryDecember. You can have a copy emailed to you, free. Take out a free subscription at: www.FreePaper.com.au

■ Th'UnGuarded Duncan presents Once Were Pirates from April 24

Written by Emilie Collyer, directed by Kevin Hopkins and performed by Anthea Davis and Claire Nicholls, Once Were Pirates tells of Shane and Gareth who were once pirates.

Marooned by time, they are now stranded in the real world fathoming how to live. Gareth starts getting out and meeting new friends.

Shane is less keen. Civilisation is confusing and old school pirate rules don’t apply here. Can their friendship survive this new situation? Can they survive?

Once Were Pirates navigates Shane and Gareth’s voyage from their get-rich-quick scheme of winning a million-dollar booty in a game show, to Gareth accepting the need to fit in with this new landlubber society, pitted against Shane’s inability to do the same. All the while, these seadogs unwillingly careen toward a bitter-sweet conclusion.

Staged in a modest theatre space, the strength of this play is said to be Shane and Gareth’s relationship. Even as they cavort and fight, their connection to one another is undeniable.

Once Were Pirates includes singing, sword fighting, and a stuffed parrot. It’s about trying to make good and asks if we can ever really change who we are?

Content Warning: Strong Language

Performance Season: April 24-May 4 at 8pm

Venue: Bard’s Apothecary, 7/24 Crossley St., Melbourne.

Bookings: www.trybooking.com

- Cheryl Threadgold

Bloomsday

■ Bookings are now open for Bloomsday in Melbourne 's new play Samuel Beckett and the Rainbow Girl, being presented from June 13-23 at St Martins Theatre, South Yarra.

Written by Steve Carey and directed by Carl Whiteside , this centrepiece of Bloomsday in Melbourne 2024 the play tells the story of James Joyce's talented daughter Lucia, her passion for dance and her doomed love affair with Samuel Beckett.

Set in Paris in the late 1920s, Lucia, muse and only daughter of notorious banned novelist James Joyce, is poised to succeed as a daringly original dancer.

Into this dysfunctional artistic household arrives alluring young Dubliner Samuel Beckett, an enigmatic, hyper-educated writer seeking his own literary voice.

He finds himself drawn into the older writer's web, and at the same time becomes the reluctant subject of Lucia's increasingly obsessive amorous gaze.

A series of romantic misunderstandings, at first comic but increasingly tragic, strip Lucia of her nascent career and, her family and love interest both lost to her, she spirals into madness.

Performance Dates: June 13 - 23

Venue: St Martins Theatre, 28 St Martins Lane, South Yarra

Bookings: bloomsdayinmelbourne.org.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Claire Nicholls (left) and Anthea Davis in Once Were Pirates.

Photo: Tony Rive

- May 4 at 8pm at Bard's Apothecary, Melbourne.

Shows

■ The 1812 Theatre: The Fire Raisers (by Max Frisch, translated by Alistair Beaton)

Until April 27 at The 1812 Theatre, Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Andrew Ferguson. Bookings: www.1812theatre. com.au

■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: The Last Quiz Night on Earth (by Alison Carr)

Until April 20 at Warrandyte Mechanics Institute, 180 Yarra St., Warrandyte. Director: Bob Bramble. Bookings: https:// www.trybooking.com/CKUCN

■ Frankston Theatre Group: Pack of Lies (by Hugh Whitemore) Until April 21 at the Mount Eliza Community Hall, 90-100 Canadian Bay Rd, Mount Eliza. Director: David Dodd. Bookings: frankstontheatregroup. org.au

■ Gemco Players: Millie’s War, Until April 28 at The Gem Theatre, 19 Kilvington Drive, Emerald. Bookings and further details: www.gemcoplayers.org

■ Williamstown Little Theatre: The Memory of Water (by Shelagh Stevenson)

April 17 – May 4 at 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Brett Turner. Bookings: wlt.org.au

■ The Basin Theatre Company: Berlin (by Joanna Murray-Smith) April 18 – 28 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Sharon Maine. Bookings: thebasintheatre.org.au

■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Still Alice (adapted by Christine Mary Dunford. From the book by Lisa Genova) April 18 – May 4 at The Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre, 39-41 Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Alan Burrows. Bookings: www.lilydale atc.com Phont: 9735 1777.

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Berlin (by Joanna Murray-Smith) April 19 – May 4 at Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Natasha Boyd. Bookings: htc.org.au

■ Geelong Repertory Theatre: Home I’m Darling (by Laura Wade) April 19 – May 4 at the Woodbin Theatre, 15 Coronation St., Geelong West. Director: Robyn Birrell. Bookings: Geelong Arts Centre 1300 251 200 geelongartscentre.org.au

■ Moonlite Theatre/Bacchus Marsh and Melton District Community Theatre: Ouch! (by William Alexander) April 19 – 20 at Holy Trinity Anglican Church Hall, 19 Gisborne Rd., Bacchus Marsh. Director: Alex McMurray. Bookings: www.trybooking.com/ CPFPX or text 0491 179 761

■ Off the Leash Theatre Productions: The Heartbreak Choir (by Aidan Fennessy) April 19 – 27 at the West Gippsland Arts Centre, Cnr Albert and Smith Sts., Warragul and Algie Hall, 213 Main Neerim Rd., Neerim Suth. Director: Kellie Bray. Bookings: 0407 444 430

■ Eltham Little Theatre: The Peppercorn Tree (by Alison Campbell Rate) April 19 –May 4 at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Rd., Research. Director: Roderick Chappel. Bookings: elthamlittletheatre.org.au

■ WOMPA (West of Melbourne Performing Arts) One-Act Play Festival at Wyndham Cultural Centre, Sunday, April 21 at 2.00pm. Director: Alaine Beek. Bookings: essencetheatre.productions/wompa2024

■ LOTS Theatre (Legends of the Skies): Wednesday, April 24 at 7.30pm in the Casey Hangar of the Moorabbin Air Museum. Anzac Day Tribute. Artistic Director: Maggie Morrison. Tables of Eight. BYO supper. $20 per person. Bookings: trybooking.com/ CPOTR.

■ Synchronicity Performing Arts: The 39 Steps (Adapted by Patrick Barlow from the novel by John Buchan) April 25 - May 4 at The Engine Room 56 View St., Bendigo. Director: Wendy Collishaw. Bookings: gotix.com Malvern Theatre Company: The Glass Menagerie (by Tennessee Williams) April 25 –May 11 at 29a Burke Rd., Malvern. Director: Barry O’Neill. Bookings: malverntheatre. com.au

■ F.A.M.D.A. Inc: The Architect (by Aiden Fennessey) April 26 – May 5 at the Foster War Memorial Arts Centre, 79 Main St., Foster. Director: Bernadette Grainger. Bookings: famda.org.au

■ Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria (GSOV): Kiss Me, Kate, May 2 – 5 at The Ian Potter Centre for the Arts, 48 Exhibition Walk, Monash University. Director: Patrick Hill; Musical Director: Trevor Henley; Choreographer: Denique Adlam. Bookings: gsov.org.au

■ Bairnsdale Production Line Theatre Company: Anything Goes May 3 – 19 at Forge Theatre and Arts Hub, Bairnsdale. Director: Beverley Campbell. Bookings: www.eastgippsland.vic.gov.au

BILLY ELLIOT’S STRUGGLE

■ CLOC Musical Theatre presents the Australian non-professional premiere of Billy Elliot from May 10-25 at the National Theatre, St Kilda.

Co-directed by Lynette White and Chris White, Billy Elliot tells of a boy's struggle for the right to express himself through dance; set against a community's struggle for the right to work during the 1984 Coal Miners' Strike in Great Britain.

Since its 2005 London debut, and now boasting 10 Tony Awards , 10 Drama Des k awards,four Olivier Awards and 7 Helpmann Awards (including Best Musical in each case), Billy Elliot is based on the 2000 international smash-hit film, with the score by Sir Elton John CLOC Musical Theatre's show is musically directed by David Clausen-Wisken, with choreography by Lynette White and set design by Chris White . The role of Billy Elliot will be shared between Sebastian Sero and Lukas Elliott.

Performance Details: May 10 -25

Venue: National Theatre, 20 Carlisle St., St Kilda

Bookings: cloc.org.au - Cheryl Threadgold

The Audition

■ Finding refuge in Australia can be challenging

Outer Urban Projects return its critically acclaimed theatre work, The Audition , with a Melbourne -metro tour to La Mama Courthouse, Bunjil Place and Bowery Theatre in May and June.

Inspired by two young Iranian immigrant artists Milad Norouzi and Sahra Davoudi, The Audition peels back the layers of the audition process and how it correlates to seeking asylum in Australia.

Asylum seekers and actors have one thing in common. They are outsiders with uncertain status.

The Audition director and Outer Urban Projects Artistic Director, Irine Vela, says there are parallels in the process experienced by actors seeking work and refugees seeking asylum.

“In both cases, applicants wait while someone more powerful determines their future, often based on a single encounter. The asylum seeker, just like the actor, is an expert at being patient with a force that keeps them waiting without having their hopes dashed,” explained Vela.

When The Audition premiered almost five years ago in 2019, Norouzi and Davoudi were doubly displaced within Australia and on its stages. They now have permanent Australian residency and are enjoying their artistic pursuits.

Norouzi and Davoudi are ongoing associate artists with Outer Urban Projects. They have contributed to the company over many years in major works and other outreach programs while they went through the process to secure refuge in Australia.

Outer Urban Projects aims to connect new and established artists based in the northern Melbourne fringes. It provides an open door for collaboration, where artist lived experiences shape the content of the stories that it shares.

Norouzi and Davoudi didn’t have to audition. Instead, they were invited to create The Audition in collaboration with Irine Vela and writers: Christos Tsiolkas, Patricia Cornelius, Melissa Reeves, Tes Lyssiotis and Wahibe Moussa. They will also join Mary Sitarenos and Evangelos Arabatzis as performers in the 2024 Melbourne-metro tour.

“Our Melbourne-metro tour of The Audition ends during Refugee Week, which this year has the theme of 'Finding Freedom through Family.’ This seems very fitting as Milad has now reunited with his parents after a decade of separation.” explained Vela.

“The Audition offers a sharp and insightful perspective into the protocols and powers that permit or veto entry into our country and onto our stages.”

Tickets: $18 – $30

Information outerurbanprojects.org/works/ theaudition - Cheryl Threadgold

Possum Magic

■ Possum Magic by Monkey Baa Theatre Co. is a beautiful, magical, engaging, funny Australian piece of theatre.

Special effects are employed from the very beginning making Possum Magic enthralling from the start.

With both live actors and the use of technology Mem Fox’s book comes to life maintaining the authenticity of the story adapted cleverly for the stage by Eva di Cesare and Sandie Eldridge.

For those who love the book there is no disappointment, any additions well thought out expansions. Those not so familiar, the story is easy to follow.

This rendition of Hush and Grandma Poss’s adventure around Australia has heart, delving further into the message of the importance of being visible.

The stage was a beautiful representation of the Australian bush. The four actors played their roles gracefully, thoughtfully, respectfully.

We meet many characters including humans along the journey, all unique. The space is used well, costumes, props, special effects everything there for a purpose.

We can easily imagine Hush invisible having fun in the bush. There was some ‘calling out’ by the young audience, only to declare where the show would be taking us next on its trip around Australia or to ask questions such as ‘where is Grandma Poss?’

No sense of boredom or restlessness from the young or older in the audience. This show has something for all ages to contemplate.

Possum Magic is well rehearsed with a talented cast /crew able to bring this Australian favourite to life, highlighting the essence behind Mem’s words with true magical spirit.

- Review by Elizabeth Semmel

Preserving maps

■ State Library Victoria’s archive holds an important collection of maps that charted the foundation of Melbourne.

These survey maps are a missing piece in the story of Melbourne’s development, giving an account of streetscapes, civic spaces and social development.

They help people understand who we were, how we organised our communities and what lives looked like years ago.

Time is a risk to these fragile historic drawings. The State Library needs to urgently conserve, catalogue and digitise them so that they can be protected forever and made accessible to all.

Art Book Fair

■ The National Gallery of Victoria presents the 10th annual Melbourne Art Book Fair in May, a state-wide celebration of art book publishing and Melbourne’s status as a UNESCO City of Literature. Over 11 days, from May 23 to June 2, the Fair will enliven venues across Victoria with book launches, talks, exhibitions and more

Sisters In Crime

■ Long gone are the days when the clever sleuth at the centre of a good crime novel was a cop or private investigator.

With this in mind, Melbourne’s literary ladies, the Sisters in Crime, are on the case, with a special night coming up called Reimagining the Sleuth, on Friday-pr. 19), from 6.30 pm for dinner, and 8 pm show at their usual watering hole, The Rising Sun Hotel, 2 Raglan St, South Melbourne

Three crime writers will be grilled about their heroic sleuths by award-winning author Emma Viskic

Author of The Engraver’s Secret, Lisa Medved, has created a contemporary art historian as her sleuth, who explores a mystery in the 17th century world of painter Reubens

In Sulari Gentill’s The Mystery Writer, it’s the aspiring author herself who finds something sinister going on in the world of publishing and has to unravel the mystery before she becomes the next victim.

And in It takes a town…to solve a murder, Melbourne-based author Aoife Clifford goes right away from the idea of the sleuth being just one person.

An entertaining evening is promised, and ‘brothers-in-law’ aka the males of the species, are warmly welcomed to join the fun.

Book tickets at https://sistersincrime. org.au/event/reimagining-the-sleuth/, and enjoy finding out how modern crime authors develop their characters and plots.

Julie Houghton

Auditions

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Wait Until Dark (by Frederick Knott) April 21 at 5.30pm; April 22 at 6.30pm at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Dean Banova. Audition Bookings: deanbanova@gmail.com

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Minnie and Liraz (by Lally Katz) April 28 at 2pm and April 29 at 7pm at Unit 8, 417-419 Warrigal Rd., Cheltenham. Director; Barbara Crawford. Audition enquiries and bookings: 0414881844 or e-mail: barbaracrawford4 @gmail.com.

■ Beaumaris Theatre: Bridges of Madison County April 28, 1pm – 5 pm and April 29, 7pm – 10pm at 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Colin Armstrong; Musical Direction; Sue Fletcher. Audition enquiries and bookings: beaumaristheatre.com.au/audition

■ Wyndham Theatre Company: After Dinner (by Andrew Bovell) May 1, 7pm-9pm; May 4 2pm-4pm at Crossroads Theatre, Cnr Duncan’s Rd and Synnot St., Werribee. Director: Fiona Scarlett. Audition deadline: April 22. A two-minute monologue selected by the auditionee is to be prepared and presented. For further details of characters and audition requirements, wyndhamtheatrecompany. org.au/ Please submit expressions of interest by emailing info@wyndhamtheatre company.org.au or filling in the contact form on the website, specifying preferred date and character

■ Malvern Theatre Company (a joint production with Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company ): Little Women – the Musical (Book by Alan Knee, Lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, Music by Jason Howland) May 5 at 7pm, May 6, 7 at 7.30pm, Callbacks May 12 at 7pm, at Malvern Theatre, 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East. Director: Alan Burrows. Further details: aburrow1@bigpond.net.au 0412 077 761

■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Little Women (book by Alan Knee) May 5, 6, 7 at 7.30pm at 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East. Director: Alan Burrows. Further details: aburrow1@bigpond.net.au 0412 077 761

■ PLOS Musical Productions: School of Rock the Musical: May 11-23 Dewey and Children auditions. Bookings now open. Adult Principals and Ensemble auditions August 4 – 11, bookings open in July. Director: Brad Fischer; Musical Director: Bev Woodford; Choreography: Jess Pratt and Tahlia Sweetman. Further information and audition booking details: plos.asn.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Sebastian Sero (Billy Elliott) with (from left)Thomas Myszka (Big Davey), Chris Hughes (Jackie Elliot), Joshua Sumner (Tony Elliot), Ric Birkett (George), Brian Griffin, Michael Birkett and Sujanthan Satkunarajah. Photo: Ben Fon

GREEN ROOM WINNERS

■ Melbourne's Comedy Theatre was the venue for the 2023 Green Room Awards , when members of Victoria's theatre industry came together to celebrate and acknowledge this year's winners, including the newly introduced Music Theatre - Independent/Fringe category.

The star-studded line-up of performers included Courtney Monsma and Zoe Coppinger from Wicked, the casts of Groundhog Day,Songs For A New World, Cuddle, Kinky Boots and Rhonda Burchmore with the Jack Earle Trio

Speakers on the night included the Colin Brooks, Minister for Creative Industries; Lord Mayor Sally Capp, Association President Anton Berezin and Association Patron, Dr Liz Jones

Colin Brooks said: “From independent shows that got people talking to much loved global hits making their Victorian debut, it’s been a huge year on stage and behind the scenes for Victoria’s performing arts community.

“Congratulations and thank you to all of this year’s winners and nominees for your talent and tenacity and the role you play in making Victoria the vibrant creative state it is.”

CABARET

Outstanding Production. Spunk Daddy presented by Autonomous Inventions and The Butterfly Club as part of Melbourne Fringe

Outstanding Ensemble . Ella Ganza in association with Joshua Taliani for Blakout commissioned by Yirramboi Festival and presented by Arts Centre Melbourne

Outstanding Musical Direction

Greg Lavell for Cabaret Unscripted presented by Melbourne Unscripted and The Butterfly Club as part of Melbourne Fringe

Outstanding Direction. Casey Gould for Spunk Daddy presented by Autonomous Inventions and The Butterfly Club as part of Melbourne Fringe

Outstanding Original Songs. Gillian Cosgriff for Actually, Good presented by Gillian Cosgriff and The Butterfly Club as part of Melbourne

International Comedy Festival

Outstanding Writing. Darby James for Spunk Daddy presented by Autonomous Inventions and The Butterfly Club as part of Melbourne Fringe

Outstanding Artiste. Miss Friby for Galah. presented by Miss Friby Productions

Outstanding Production Design. Elizabeth Dawson-Smith and Louise Purcell for Galah. (stage) presented by Miss Friby Productions

CONTEMPORARYAND EXPERIMENTAL(CEP)

Contribution to Sector and Community (Two recipients). Kianna Oricci, Lay The Mystic and Efren Pamilacan for Genesis presented by Arts House and Cypher Culture Bukjeh

Outstanding Work. Betty Grumble for Enemies of Grooviness Eat Sh!t

produced by Performing Lines and presented by Arts House and Melbourne Fringe Performance by a Performer or Ensemble (Two recipients). Dan Daw for The Dan Daw Show presented by Arts House and Rising. Heather Cull, Sandy Daly, Marilyn Davies, Sally Goldner, Clare Larman, Terri Seddon, Jo Walker and Sandy Wood for Wake produced by Performing Lines and presented by The Substation, Melbourne Fringe and The Rabble. Design/Technical Achievement. Design Team for ~~~~~ "...derelict in uncharted space..." by Fayen d'Evie, Benjamin Hancock, Rebecca Bracewell, Luke D. King, Georgina Kleege, Nelly Kate, Andy Slater, Lloyd Mst, Jon Tjhia, Alex Craig, Anastasia La Fey, Aaron McPeake, Ashley Buchanan, Marco CherGibard, Anna Seymour, Sheereen Perrin, George Thomas, Lorena Zapiain and Sheri Wells-Jensen presented by Chunky Move and Melbourne Fringe DANCE

Best Sound Design . Alisdair Macindoe for 4/4 presented by Chunky Move

Best Visual/Digital Design. Lighting Design: Alex Nguyen and Marco Cher-Gibard for Mohini presented by Raina Peterson and Arts House as part of Frame: A biennial of Dance

Best Set/Costume Design. Set Design: Paul Yore and Devon Ackermann, Costume Design: Toni Maticevski for Triptych presented by Phillip Adams BalletLab and Temperance Hall as part of Frame: A biennial of Dance

Best Choreography. Antony Hamilton for Forever and Ever presented by Antony Hamilton and Sydney Dance Co.

Best Ensemble. Harrison Hall, Samuel Harnett-Welk, Benjamin Hurley, Oliver Savariego and Alexandra Dobson for Triptych presented by Phillip Adams BalletLab and Temperance Hall as part of FRAME: A biennial of Dance

Best Performer (Two recipients). Jesse Scales for Forever and Ever presented by Antony Hamilton and Sydney Dance Co. Raghav Handa for Two presented by Raghav Handa and Arts House as part of Frame: A biennial of Dance and produced by Performing Lines

Breaking Ground Award. Jackie Sheppard for The Honouring presented by Jackie Sheppard and Arts House as part of FRAME: A biennial of Dance

Outstanding Creation. Lucy Guerin for Newretro presented by Lucy Guerin Inc.

INDEPENDENTTHEATRE

Best New Writing. Liv Satchell with Chanella Macri and Emily Tomlins for i sat and waited but you were gone too long presented by VIMH in association with La Mama Theatre

Best Direction. Cassandra Fumi for The Crocodile presented by Spinning

Plates Co. in association with fortyfivedownstairs

Best Performer (Two recipients). Cait Spiker for The Crocodile presented by Spinning Plates Co. in association with fortyfivedownstairs. Lily Fish for Rakali presented by Fish and Duncan as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival

Best Ensemble. Clare Bartholomew, Nicci Wilks and Mozes for The Long Pigs presented by WE3 and Cluster Arts and Theatre Works

Best Lighting Design. Bronwyn Pringle for Prophet presented by Poiesis and Theatre Works

Best Set and Costume. Dann Barber for The Crocodile presented by Spinning Plates Co. in association with fortyfivedownstairs

Best Sound Design and Composition. Meena Shamaly and Camille El Feghali for Zaffé presented by Stéphanie Ghajar & Collaborators as part of Melbourne Fringe Festival

Best Production. Animal Farm presented by Bloomshed and Darebin Arts Speakeasy

MUSICALTHEATRE –COMMERCIAL/FUNDED

Artists Ensemble (Including featured ensemble). The Company for Once presented by Darlinghurst Theatre Company

Artists (Leading). Seann Miley Moore for Miss Saigon presented by Opera Australia in association with Cameron Mackintosh

Artists (Supporting). Jack Chambers for Mary Poppins presented by Disney and Cameron Mackintosh in association with Michael Cassel

Group

New Australian Music Theatre

Writing. Tom Gleisner (Book and Lyrics) and Katie Weston (Music) for Bloom presented by Melbourne Theatre Company

Design. Silicon Theatre Scenery implement by Cam Balfour (Automation) for Miss Saigon presented by Opera Australia in association with Cameron Mackintosh

Choreography. Michael Ralph for Elvis: A Musical Revolution presented by David Venn Enterprises

Direction (Music). Guy Simpson (Supervisor) and Anthony Barnhill (Musical Director) for The Phantom of the Opera presented by Opera Australia and The Really Useful Group in association with Cameron Mackintosh

Direction (Stage and Technical). Laurence Connor and Jean-Pierre

Van Der Spuy (Stage) for Miss Saigon presented by Opera Australia in association with Cameron Mackintosh

Outstanding Music Theatre Production. Mary Poppins presented by Disney, Cameron Mackintosh and Michael Cassel Group

●

● More awards on next page

The First Omen

■ (MA). 119 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.

After J ohn Moore’s abysmal remake in 2006, I had no expectations for this latest entry in the demonic series, which shows the events leading up to Richard Donner’s 1976 blockbuster starring Gregory Peck.

The result is thankfully something more interesting, but because the writers don’t fully capitalise on the premise put forth, it is a frustrating viewing experience.

Set in 1971, the story centres on young American Margaret (Nell Tiger Free), who arrives in Rome to take her vows.

Welcomed by long time mentor

Cardinal Lawrence (Bill Nighy), and introduced to the stern Sister Silva (Sonia Braga) and fellow nun-to-be roommate Luz (Maria Caballero), Margaret is ready to serve God, but starts having nightmarish visions when she meets one of the young girls, Carlita (Nicole Sorace), who is segregated from the others, and seems to be treated badly by those who are supposed to care for her.

As she begins to investigate why, Margaret uncovers that something truly unholy is coming.

The First Omen surprisingly takes its time setting up its story and characters, while debutant director Arkasha Stevenson lovingly immerses the audience in 70’s atmosphere and aesthetics, and manages to provide some effective moments (especially a scene which feels like a mix of Andrzej Zulawski and Takashi Miike).

References to the earlier films will please fans of the series.

The film stumbles at crucial times due to an uneven script, which falls into clumsy exposition, treating its characters like idiots.

Performances are generally fine (Caballero and Sorace could be directly from 70’s Euro horror), and technically the film is well crafted.

The First Omen is far from the disaster I might have been expecting, thanks to Stevenson’s committed direction (I look forward to see what she does next), but a more consistently good script could have made this something more.

It will quite possibly make people interested in watching the original trilogy (The Omen in 1976, Damien : Omen II in 1978, and The Final Conflict in 1981).

Whether you want to endure the 1991 TV movie and the 2006 remake (I haven’t seen the 2016 TV series, Damien), is another matter altogether.

RATING - ***

Monkey Man

■ (MA). 123 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.

Dev Patel makes an admittedly eye-popping directorial debut here, with a hugely energetic action/ drama/thriller, packing so much into its story that it all feels a bit unwieldy, but weirdly doesn’t detract from its overall entertainment value.

Co-writer/co-producer/director Patel stars as Kid , a second-rung fighter who participates in illegal, underground bouts for ruthless promotor Tiger (an over-the-top Sharlto Copley), in a fictional city that is clearly meant to be Mumbai.

His identity hidden under a monkey mask, Kid is always the hated opponent, there to be beaten each time by the beloved champions.

Kid is obsessed in carrying out another plan however, which is getting revenge on Police Chief Rana (Sikander Kher), who murdered his mother while evicting their villagers in brutal fashion, to make way for a temple.

Also on his list is Baba Shakti (Makrand Deshpande), a self-confessed religious leader who is as corrupt as any law enforcer or politician who is helping him during upcoming elections.

When Kid gets his chance to get closer to these culprits, events become extremely dangerous as he puts his life at risk again and again.

It is incredible that audiences are seeing anything at all of Patel’s obvious passion project, and I recommend people reading up on the film’s insanely troubled production, which began pre-COVID.

Patel deserves credit for merely completing the movie, but the fact that he has created something quite memorable is truly remarkable.

Despite Patel perhaps trying to pack too many subjects into the script, including multiple criticisms at the current Indian government and its treatment of minority communities, a look at local spiritualism, and an examination of the class system, the inevitable messiness actually works in its favour, and topped by some excitingly staged fight sequences, allows Monkey Man to stand above the crowd of action/thrillers.

Patel also wears his influences on his sleeve, including Enter The Dragon, John Wick, Korean action cinema (in-particuarly City Of Violence), Strange Days, and filmmaker Danny Boyle (who directed Slumdog Millionaire).

Monkey Man will divide audiences, but Patel’s genuine conviction and determination should be applauded, and the film deserves to be given a chance. RATING

- Aaron Rourke

Smart phone ... help!

■ Is your smart phone driving you crazy? Do you like to learn one-on-one or in a small group? Do you like a laugh and a cuppa? Do you want to learn yourself and stop relying on family? Some common topics include:

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You are never too old to learn. No task is too small. One-off or regular lessons. From $80 per hour.

Multi-session discounts available.

Contact: Sarah Flynn, Digital Teacher, phone 9436 4349.

Places To Go

What’s OnWhat’s On Entertainment

Hall of Fame

■ The Australian Publishers Association has announced the 2024 Hall of Fame Awards: the 2024 Lloyd O’Neil Award, which recognises exceptional service to the Australian book Industry by a member from within its ranks; the 2024 Pixie O’Harris Award, for consistent excellence in contributions to children’s literature; and the 2024 Business Awards Shortlists which includes categories of Bookshop, Commissioning Editor, Marketing Strategy, Publisher and Small Publisher of the Year.

This year’s winners for the 2024 Hall of Fame Awards are:

■ Lloyd O’Neil Hall of Fame Award – Fiona Stager. Through bookstores Avid Reader and Where the Wild Things Are, she has not only provided a platform for local and emerging writers but also cultivated a space where readers can explore a diverse range of literature, from classics to contemporary works. Her involvement in prestigious literary awards such as the Vogel Award, Stella Prize and the Queensland Literary Awards, along with her recognition by the Johnno Award and life membership in the Australian Booksellers Association highlights her immense contributions to the Australian literary scene. The ABIA's acknowledgment of her impact further solidifies her status as a champion of Australian literature, and her efforts continue to shape and enrich the cultural landscape of the country.

■ Pixie O’Harris Hall of Fame Award - Jane Godwin Jane Godwin's impact on Australian children's literature is immense and multifaceted. Her prolific output of more than 40 books demonstrates her versatility and dedication to the craft. She is a tireless advocate for Australian children's literature, both as a supporter and promoter of fellow authors and illustrators. Her commitment to nurturing talent extends to her work as a teacher and mentor, where she has shared her expertise through courses and workshops across Australia and internationally. Her involvement with organisations like the Indigenous Literacy Foundation showcases her dedication to fostering literacy and creativity in diverse communities, including remote Aboriginal communities and children in hospitals.

■ ABIA 2024 Commissioning EditorAward

Shortlist

The Commissioning Editor Award recognises the importance of an editor or publisher who provides excellence in the support of their authors, and the acquisition and commission of new titles that enriches the Australian publishing landscape and supports the needs of the publishing house.

The shortlisted professionals for the 2024 Commissioning Editor are:

■ Kristen Abbott (Thames & Hudson Australia)

■ Anthea Bariamis (Simon & Schuster Australia)

■ Vanessa Radnidge (Hachette Australia)

■ Rebecca Saunders (Hachette Australia)

■ Catherine Milne (HarperCollins Publishers)

■ Madonna Duffy (UQP)

■ ABIA 2024 Marketing Strategy Award

Shortlist

The Marketing Strategy Award recognises the outstanding contributions of marketing professionals in showcasing their talent and individual product lines and lists with imaginative, innovative and effective campaigns that have captured the imagination of Australian readers.

The shortlist is:

■ Lola In the Mirror (HarperColllins Publishers)

■ Fourth Wing and Iron Flames (Hachette Australia)

■ The Bookbinder of Jericho (Affirm Press)

■ Wifedom (Penguin Random House Australia)

■ The Last Devil to Die (Penguin Random House Australia

■ Everyone on This Train is a Suspect (Penguin Random House Australia)

Winners of these and other categories will be announced at this year’s Awards night, hosted on Thursday, May 9 at Zinc Fed Square in Melbourne.

PRAHRAN ARTIST ON SHOW

■ Australian-Italian artist Melissa La Bozzetta’s paintings which include nudes, abstracts and sculptures hang in France, Italy, New York and Rome in addition to her Prahran studio.

Melissa describes her childhood as colourful and extremely strict.

Melissa says: "I started to draw at age four as I was rarely allowed to go out and play with the other kids. I found solace, freedom and strength in my art. As a teenager my room was covered wall to wall in art. Each creation helped me work through a lot of pain that I carried and helped build my resilience."

Melissa met her husband, ex-Premier League footballer, Steve Mautone, in a Melbourne cafe. Steve played for West Ham and Reading. Upon retiring overseas, Steve became Melbourne Victory's Goalkeeper Coach for 10 years winning three premierships in his time at Victory

Melissa says: "After we had our twins, I started to paint again when they were around 8 months old. Steve would come home and find the babies and walls covered in specs of paint."

Whilst her family discouraged her from becoming an artist and pleaded with her not to paint nudes, Melissa listened to her intuition and is now a well known international artist with paintings and sculptures in the Louvre, Singulart France, Rome, New York and Australia.

Australians flock to her gallery in Prahran to commission nude self portraits, feeling liberation in their stories and journey being told through art. Melissa has male and female clients of all ages but she has cultivated a significant demand for women wanting nude self portraits.

https://www.melissalabozzetta.com/ ● ● Melissa

GREEN ROOM WINNERS

Continued From Previous Page MUSICALTHEATRE –INDEPENDENT/FRINGE

Artists Ensemble (including Featured Ensemble) . The Angels (Carter Rickard, Cody Green, Jayden Prelc, Lochlan Erard, Samuel Allsop) for Kinky Boots presented by James Terry Collective Artists (Leading). Charmaine Gorman for A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum presented by Watch This Artists (Supporting). Javon King for Guys and Dolls presented by Antipodes Theatre Company

New Australian Music Theatre Writing. Sarah Wynen for Blue to the Horizon presented by Sevenfold Theatre Company Design. Sidney Younger (Lighting) for Body of Work - Parade, Songs for a New World Choreography. Veronica Beattie George for La Cage aux Folles presented by David M. Hawkins in association with Arts Centre Melbourne Music Direction. David Butler for Guys and Dolls presented by Antipodes Theatre Company Direction. Martin Croft for Kinky Boots presented by James Terry Collective Outstanding Music Theatre Production. Kinky Boots presented by James Terry Collective

OPERA

Outstanding Performance in a Lead Role (Two recipients). Antoinette Halloran for Götterdämmerung presented by Melbourne Opera., Adrian Tamburini Götterdämmerung presented by Melbourne Opera Outstanding Performance in a Supporting Role (Two recipients). Timo Riihonen for Tannhäuser presented by Opera Australia. Dimity Shepherd for Galileo presented by Victorian Opera Design. Dann Barber (Sets), Sabina Myers (Costumes) and Lisa Mibus (Lighting) for Melbourne Cheremushki presented by Victorian Opera Musical Achievement. Conducting: Richard Mills for Galileo presented by Victorian Opera New Australian Opera. Richard Mills and Malcolm Angelucci for Galileo presented by Victorian Opera Best Direction. Constantine Costi for

Noted With Thanks

■ Malaysian comedian Kuah Jenhan presents Noted with Thanks in the Melbourne International Comedy Festival until April 21 at the Trades Hall Meeting Room, Carlton.

Despite having a day job as an awardwinning Creative Director of a major advertising agency, Jenhan knows who the real experts are when it comes to "the socials".

For his show Noted With Thanks, Jenhan has assembled ‘Team Jenhan’ - a squad of Year 10 students he met at a school workshop - to run his social media campaign.

Team Jenhan has been coaching Jenhan on his posts in addition to supplementing his content with their own, colourful, distinctively digitally native, efforts.

‘Team Jenhan’ is lead by Kai Ling and Jesslyn, two students chaperoned by their drama teacher. Kai Ling and Jesslyn are online everyday, alternately coaching and scolding Jenhan for his efforts on his channels as well as attempting to boost his brand on their own channel @teamjenhan

Performance Details: Until April 21

Venue: The Meeting Room, Trades Hall, 54 Victoria St., Carlton Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

M Is For Melbourne

■ M is for Melbourne: the World's Mostly Liveable City

Personable designer and academic Julian O'Shea enjoys making short videos about interesting places around his beloved home city of Melbourne for YouTube, Instagram and Tik Tok.

Not surprisingly, Melbourne was the topic for his first live show presented at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival at the Doubletree Hilton.

Melbourne, Cheremushki presented by Victorian Opera

Outstanding Special Achievement. The Ring Cycle presented by Melbourne Opera

Best Production. Idomeneo presented by Victorian Opera THEATRE COMPANIES

Outstanding New Australian Writing. Declan Furber Gillick for Jacky presented by Melbourne Theatre Company

Outstanding Composition and Sound Design. Joe Paradise Lui for Is God Is presented by Melbourne Theatre Company and Sydney Theatre Company

Outstanding Lighting Design. Rachel Burke for My Sister Jill presented by Melbourne Theatre Company and Wittenoom presented by Red Stitch Actors’ Theatre

Direction. Susie Dee for My Sister Jill presented by Melbourne Theatre Company

Outstanding Costume Design. Marg Horwell for Bernhardt/Hamlet presented by Melbourne Theatre Company

Outstanding Set Design. Marg Horwell for Escaped Alone and What If If only presented by Melbourne Theatre Company

Outstanding Ensemble. My Sister Jill presented by Melbourne Theatre Company

Outstanding Production. My Sister Jill presented by Melbourne Theatre Company

Outstanding Performer (Two recipients). Danny Ball for Loaded presented by Malthouse Theatre. Chika Ikogwe for seven methods of killing kylie jenner presented by Malthouse Theatre in association with Darlinghurst Theatre Company and Green Door Theatre Company

ASSOCIATIONAWARDS

Work for Young Audiences (CEP). The By Kids For Kids Collective for Don't Panic, Everything Is Urgent presented by ArtPlay and House of Muchness

Betty Pounder Award for Original Australian Choreography (MT). Michael Ralph for Elvis: A Musical Revolution presented by David Venn Enterprises

Geoffrey Milne Award (CEP). Phillip Adams

Lifetime Achievement Award. Phillip Adams Technical Achievement Award. Peter John Sidney Pettet

- Cheryl Threadgold and Michael Wilkie

Titled M is for Melbourne: the World’s Mostly Liveable City, O’Shea works through the alphabet from A to Z, assisted by electronic visuals, to take his audience on a respectful, tongue-in-cheek exploration of the city’s ‘weird and wonderful’ parts.

The result is an engaging, entertaining 40minute show, intelligently and articulately presented at high-octane pace by O’Shea, comprising clever, clean humour, well-researched interesting facts, and no audience participation needed except for much laughter and emotive responses from the full capacity crowd.

Until now, who would have realised that the Collins Street bicycle lane is not as wide as adult bicycle handlebars, that inflatable tube signs are no longer permitted, or that the cast bronze statue of canine Larry Latrobe in Federation Square was stolen and replaced?

Also attracting endearing scrutiny were the Parliament House Station escalators, the Montague Bridge, the Yarra River and many more.

O’Shea makes it clear he would love to see Melbourne reclaim its title from Vienna as The World’s Most Liveable City.

He points out some astonishing facts about the small number of cities assessed each year for global liveability ranking.

As a point of interest, M also stands for Mayor, and the City of Melbourne happens to have a forthcoming vacancy.

What better candidate than this self-described ‘boy from the country who talks about cities’, who obviously passionately cares about where he lives?

Congratulations Julian O’Shea for a terrific first MICF show. May there be many more.

- Review by

Cheryl Threadgold

At Oakleigh

■ Ella's Music Club presents Kings& Queens of Soul and Tina Loves Sam at Oakleigh Music Hall from 8pm on Saturday, April 20.

The line-up is Andrea Marr - Vocals, John McNamara - Guitar and Vocals, Shane Gilbert - Guitar (and Backing Vocals), Andrew Fry - Bass, Dave Clark - Drums.

La Bozzetta

■ It is amazing how I get the inspiration to research and write these stories.

I pulled out the DVD of Gone With The Wind recently to show my youngest daughter.

As we sat and watched the film I was entranced with the performance of Leslie Howard

I thought - whatever happened to Leslie Howard ? Please read on, it is a fascinating story.

Leslie Howard Steiner was born in Forest Hill, London in 1893.

His parents were of Jewish heritage but his mother was raised as a Christian.

Leslie was the oldest of five siblings and the family changed their name to Stainer.

Leslie was educated at Alleyn's School in London and worked as a bank teller before serving in the British Army during World War One. He was discharged suffering with shell-shock in 1916. Leslie became a stage actor and worked professionally on London's West End and then on Broadway in many plays.

In 1920 he changed his name to Leslie Howard by deed poll. He married Ruth Martin and they had two children.

Leslie began his film career in England working in silent films before playing lead roles in sound films.

His early films included British Agent, Of Human Bondage and The Scarlett Pimpernel

Leslie received an Academy Award nomination for his performance in Berkley Square

Whatever Happened To ... Leslie Howard

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

During his career he worked as an actor, producer and director.

In 1935 Leslie starred in The Petrified Forest on Broadway and this led to his being cast in the Warner Brothers film of the same name opposite Humphrey Bogart and Bette Davis

He insisted that Bogart be cast as the gangster Duke Mantee after working with him in the stage play.

They became firm friends and Bogart named his daughter Leslie in his honour.

Leslie starred as Professor Henry Higgins in Pygmalion in 1938.

His most remembered role was as Ashley Wilkes in Gone With The Wind in 1939. He agreed to play the character without reading the

● ● Leslie Howard

novel by Margaret Mitchell or the film script. It seems he hated playing the role of the honourbound disillusioned intellectual Southern gentleman and was quoted as saying: "I hate the damn

part. I'm not nearly beautiful or young enough for Ashley and it makes me sick being fixed up to look attractive".

But the public loved him and he was wonderful in the film. He returned to the UK during the war years and used his profile to raise money for the war effort.

He produced films and did a lot of voice work.

In 1943 Leslie Howard was aboard a plane flying from Portugal to England when it was shot down by a Luftwaffe fighter aircraft over the Bay of Biscay.

Leslie was among 17 people who were killed. There have been all sorts of theories over the years on this tragic event including the story that the Germans may have thought that Winston Churchill was on board.

His late son Ronald Howard became an actor and portrayed the title character in the 1954 television series Sherlock Holmes

Leslie Howard was 50 when he became a casualty of war and a documentary on his life was recently produced.

Kevin Trask

Kevin can be heard on 3AWThe Time Tunnel - Remember WhenSundays 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

INDIGENOUS TREES AND THE DREAMING

Grounding and Connecting –Indigenous Trees and The Dreaming

This exhibition, presented by Mullum Mulam Indigenous Gathering Place, celebrates the launch of a new project mapping First Nations art including outdoor and indoor murals, sculptures, meeting places, galleries and collections, monuments and other art forms in Melbourne’s eastern regions.

The exhibition presents a newly commissioned mural, and exhibition works ranging across painting, sculpture, wood and photography by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders artists responding to the themes of Big Old Beautiful Indigenous Trees and The Dreaming.

Exhibition closes June 9.

Arts in Maroondah

Ringwood Town Square Ground Floor 179 Maroondah Hwy (opposite Ringwood Station) Ringwood

MUMA

■ Muma opens ground-breaking exhibition of Australian design visionary Visnja Brdar.

Muma has unveiled the groundbreaking debut exhibition of Australian born, New York based designer Visnja Brdar, Visnja Brdar: Design

Exalted is Australia’s first significant exhibition of a female graphic designer and profiles the remarkable 37-year career if a design visionary in an exhibition exclusive to Muma.

Drawing in Brdar’s design archive and celebrating the designer’s important role in contemporary design communication, the exhibition coincides with the first monograph of Brdar’s work co-published by Muma and Powerhouse Publishing.

The exhibition also explores the meticulous artistry and sophistication within Brdar’s brand identity, collateral, book design, packaging, jewellery, and creative direction projects, underlying her commitment to design as storytelling , in addition new works of art and personal notebooks made public for the first time, attesting to her remarkable and broad range of expression.

Exhibition closes June 15. Monash University of Art (MUMA)

The Arts

with Peter Kemp

Building F

Caulfield Campus Princes Hwy, Caulfield

Blender

Ordered Chaos – Jo Ryan

The artwork is created if a weird psychological and surreal imagery, depicting hidden moments in a familiar world.

The familiarity of suburbia is something that Ryan placates through her choice of imagery.

The absence of life in much of the artwork evokes vast emptiness and creates a window into a familiar dystopian world.

Ryan has constructed a muse en scene, that gives the iconography a new and secondary life cuisine the suburban banality.

Exhibition opens Friday April 19 and closes May 4. Blender Studio 33035 Dudley St, West Melbourne

NGV

■ The Grace Crowley and Ralph Belson exhibition pairs two pioneers of Australian abstraction for the very first time.

Grace Crowley and Ralph Balson is the first ever major exhibition to explore in-depth the longstanding creative partnership and artistic synergies between pioneering abstract art-

ists Grace Crowley (1890 – 1964) and Ralph Baylon (1890 – 1964).

Opening at the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, the exhibition charts their radical leap into pure abstraction, and the important role they played in shaping the modern art movement in Australia

By presenting the work of Crowley and Balson together, the exhibition invites audiences to trace the shared influences and harmonies between their works, as well as to appreciate the centrality of collaboration to their individual practices.

The exhibition comprises more than 75 paintings and works on paper, with some of these never-before-seen by the Australian public, and drawn from Victorian and interstate collections, major institutions including the Art Gallery of New South Wales and the National Gallery of Australia, regional and private collections.

Exhibition opens May 23 and closes September 22.

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne - Peter Kemp

Radio DJ items stolen

■ Melbourne veteran radio man Kevin Hillier and his partner Sarah Patterson have lost a number of radio awards after their western suburbs home suffered a break-in.

One item was a TV Week DJ of the Year. Another item was an Australian Commercial Radio Awards (ACRA).

Kevin also lost a framed picture of a gold Twelfth Man album he had been gifted by EMI for helping to break the record.

Kevin told Radio Today that he’s equally worried that some Cash Converters worker will obtain it and say: “That Kevin Hillier fellow must be going through tough times, trying to offload his ACRAs.”

- Radio Today

OK. With John O’Keefe

Partridge Family celebrates

■ Shirley Jones, the Mum in TV mega hit series 'Partridge Family' celebrated her 90 th birthday with her Cassidy kids. Shirley blew out the candles at a small party at a US snowy mountain resort. In attendance was once teen singer, Shaun, age 65 who after years living as a semi recluse has returned to the stage with a songs and memories of being a Partridge member and his time as a long haired, once adored teen idol.

Train of Thought

■ It seems so bleeding obvious. Across the ditch, KFC rented a suburban train, had an artist provide signage for KFC, but the real Zinger was name given to the train - The Gravy Train

The train was travelling between stations en route to a major rugby game and apart from advertising KFC, it also encouraged travellers to leave cars at home and catch a train.

Different Foodie tour

■ Queen Victoria Market has introduced a new mouthwatering foodie tour called Tastes of Australia. The 90-minute tour, Friday to Sunday, takes you on a culinary adventure sampling Australian bush ingredient, learn cooking tricks using exotic ingredients from stallholders. Perfect for locals and tourists. Details: 0491 361 528

Colette returns home

■ Colette Mann has returned home after a year in London where she featured in a variety of theatrical jobs including TV commercials, experimental theatre and generally having a fun time. Colette, now 74, is keen to return to a Melbourne radio station looking for a quick-thinking broadcaster.

Bridget Jones continues

■ The hugely successful film franchise 'Bridget Jones' has announced plans to produce the fourth movie- 'Bridget Jones; Mad about the Boy'. Already Renee Zellweger, Hugh Grant and Emma Thompson are confirmed and will reunite to star when film is released Valentine's Day, 2025. The Bridget Jones franchise has already grossed $760 million at box office. - John O’Keefe

● ● ● ● Shirley Jones

Crossroads

By Rob Foenander info@robfomusic.com.au

New single

■ Melbourne based Mr Alford continues on his successful musical journey with his next single release. Titled Bury Me On This Hill, it’s scheduled to hit the airwaves in mid May. The country folk-inspired singer, songwriter and musician has brought together an elite list of renown musicians from around Australia to add to his already impressive studio recordings. The new single features Pia Nesvara, a regular herself at numerous venues around town. “I adore making music and find that part easy, now is the hard bit, telling the world about my work”.

Heritage legends

■ A once-in-a-lifetime experience for lovers of true-blue, Oz Blues, Country Rock and Folk is set for the Frankston Arts Centre on June 2. Heritage legends Chain, Stars and The Bushwackers will relive their hits and music that have made them Australian music icons for countless decades. https:// artscentre.frankston.vic.gov.au/Whats-On/

Story tellers

■ Casey Radio 97.7fm is presenting the next instalment in its highly successful Storytellers at the station series of concerts. ‘Corn Nut Creek’ are award-winning folkies hailing from New York and Melbourne Their spellbinding songs draw from Appalachian roots and will transport you with lush vocal harmonies and toe-tapping fiddle and banjo. Danielle Vita and Tanya Bradley are storytellers bound together through sisterhood and song. Sunday (Apr. 21) 2pm4pm. Tickets at trybooking.com

TOP

OF

■ Rohan Arneil has an easy-going attitude in his comedic delivery as he recounts the ridiculous nature of many of his experiences in life as a garbo, stonemason and wouldbe paramour.

His view is original with a turn of phrase that makes for the comic. He is also confident on stage and able to interact with his audience.

But there is another level possible. His peripatetic lifestyle is mirrored in his shtick as he moves from one episode to another which seem to be conveniently listed on his phone.

The next dimension would be a greater structure and form to the set. The common factor between all the items is Rohan himself and not necessarily the language or common argument or thread.

When he finishes one episode he moves on to the next. This amuses. This makes for laughter. But such an approach could go on forever.

The best reflection of what I mean is the title given to his show, Top of the Food Chain

There is actually no reference to it in the hour or play on what it might mean, and there is fun to be had with never actually rising to the top or who you have to consume to get there.

That narrative arc is something that would bring the whole show together allowing, perhaps, for a final revelation about the absurdity of life.

Crossword Solution No 4

THE FOOD CHAIN

The Dove Club until April 18 comedyfestival.com.au

- Review by David McLean

Still Dry White

■ Be prepared for quick-fire one liners from Nick Schuller with his season of Still Dry White as a part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival delivered at the Trades Hall - Archive Room.

But not before what I would call an eight-minute ‘warm up’ segment by stand-up comic Luka Muller with some of his life’s experiences before introducing Nick

Across the front of the stage were bottles of Nick’s own wine label – of still dry white, with the emphasis on “dry” aligning it to his style of humour.

Tall and imposing it was hard to get a smile from him as there was nothing sacred in the delivery of his many narrations.

His ability to switch from one subject to another was obvious, using the last word of a one liner to change direction with ease.

In engaging the audience, he moved across the front row enquiring of their occupations, a physio, a housewife, a uni-student and when I was challenged – “I am a reviewer”, his quick-fire response was, “There goes my career as a comic”.

Most of the time his delivery was

TOPPLING PERTURBS HEREDITY MOONBEAM

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BEDSIDE INDIA OMEGA SCALA EDDYING

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MOROCCO AVEMARIA FERRYMAN LEAKAGE

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APERITIF KISSED C L BEATEN UNSPOILT

R N N C PANE REENTER ERGO G A C O DISPENSER MELBA S H ABASE ARSONISTS M O O E A A PASTIES V C T

monotone and emotionless and as dry as his wine. He reminded us that Adelaide was the home of Australia’s worst serial killers, linking barrels to “full bodied“ wine.

Predatory priests didn’t escape his rhetoric nor a reference to playing golf was like having sex.

Telling us he was newly married, his wife was cooking and asked him to get some fish stock, so dutifully he went out and invested in some John West stocks.

There were plenty more cleverly delivered situations, much to the delight of the audience. A wellcrafted performance topped off with the handing out bottles of his wine as we left the building.

- Review by

Graeme McCoubrie

■ Aan incorrect review was published for this show in last week's edition. Enquiries of the author lead us to believe it was an unintentional error. - Editor.

Vale Garry Van Egmond

■ Garry Van Egmond, respected music industry stalwart passed peacefully on Saturday morning, April 6, following complications of recent surgery.

Garry Van Egmond was a key figure in the Australasian entertainment industry, with over 50 years’ experience in touring, production of theatrical events, event merchan-

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

dising, marketing, and promotion –selling in excess of 35 million tickets across Australia, New Zealand, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Korea, Taiwan and Japan.

Through Garry’s long and highly regarded presence in the Industry, he was responsible for four of the biggest concert tours of Australia including ‘Dire Straits’ 1986, ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ 1992, ‘Riverdance’ 1997 and ‘AC/DC’ in 2010.

In a career of ‘sold out’ business, highlights include Dire Straits ‘Brothers In Arms Tour’ , which saw 250,000 seats, sold in Sydney alone, and ticket sales of approximately one in 15 to the entire Australian population (this achievement is listed in the Guinness Book of Records), Bette Midler’s ‘The Divine Miss M Tour’ of 1978, which sold out 72 performances, and in 2010 AC/DC’s ‘Black Ice Tour’.

TEG Group CEO Geoff Jones said: “Today the entire TEG family expresses our sadness and mourns the loss of Garry Van Egmond. “Garry was not only a highly valued colleague but a thoroughly decent person, and a resounding talent with the highest integrity.

“His legacy will stand the test of time.

“Our thoughts are with Christo, Katie and his family through these difficult times.”

- Contributed

• Specialising in Rock & Sleeper Retaining Walls • Tight Access • Site Clean

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Victorian Rural News

WEEKEND’S LOCAL FOOTBALL MATCH RESULTS

Amateurs

■ Victorian Amateur Football Association. Premier Men’s. Old melburnians 15.13 (103) d Collegians 12.10 (82). St Bernards 11.12 (78) d Fitzroy 11.10 (76). St Kevins 12.10 982) d Old Xaverians 9.8 (62). Old Scotch 9.4 (58) d University Blacks 7.7 (49). Old Br5ighton 14.16 (100) d University Blues 11.14 (70).

■ Premier Men’s Reserves. Collegians 8.15 (63) d Old Melburnians 7.11 (53). St Bernards 13.13 (91) d Fitzroy 7.4 (46). Old Xaverians 6.10 (46) d St Kevins 6.9 (45). Old Scotch 12.9 (81) d University Blacks 2.8 (20). University Blues 12.11 (83) d Old Brighton 6.7 (43).

■ Premier B Men’s. Old Trinity 12.8 (80) d Old Haileybury 8.14 (62). Old Camberwell 10.15 (75) d Old Ivanhoe 9.15 (69). Old Geelong 15.11 (101) d Williamstown CYMS 8.15 (63). De La Salle 9.21 (75) d Beaumaris 8.8 (56). CCaulfield Grammarians 13.13 (91) d St Bedes/Mentone Tigers 12.7 (79).

■ Premier B Men’s Reserves. Old Trinity 12.18 (80) d Old Haileybury 7.5 (47). Old Ivanhoe 17.14 (116) d Old Camberwell 4.7 (31). Williamstown CYMS 7.8 (50) d Old Geelong 6.3 (39). De La Salle 9.10 (64) d Beaumaris 4.13 (37). St Bedes/Mentone Tigers 13.15 (93) d Caulfield Grammarians 5.2 (32).

■ Premier C Men’s. AJAX 16.14 (110) d Marcellin 7.5 (47). Old Carey 11.16 (82) d Monash Blues 10.7 (67). Mazenod 12.11 (83)

d PEGS 6.12 (48). Parkdale 29.22 (196) d Glen Eira 3.5 (23). Hampton Rovers 9.21 (75) d Oakleigh 7.7 (49).

■ Premier C Men’s Reserves. AJAX 15.16 (116) d Marcellin 5.6 (36). Old Carey 13.14 (92) d Monash Blues 9.7 (61). Mazenod 9.13 (67) d PEGS 6.4 (40). Parkdale Vultures 20.14 (134) d Glen Eira 6.1 (37). Hampton Rovers 18.19 (127) d Oakleigh 1.5 (11).

■ Division 1 Men’s. Prahran 14.11 (95) d Ormond 8.13 (61). UHS-VU 10.12 (72) d Parkside 9.12 (66). Therry Penola 15.11 (101) d West Brunswick 7.9 (51). Kew 15.15 (105)

d Preston Bullants 8.6 (54). Old Peninsula 13.9 (87) de Old Yarra 4.7 (31).

■ Division 1 Men’s Reserves. Ormond 14.17 (101 d Prahran 10.10 (70). Parkside 12.9 (81) d UHS-VU 7.7 (49). West Brunswick 16.14 (110) d Therry Penola 7.6 (48). Preston Bullants 8.120 (58) d Kew 3.9 (27). Old Yarra Cobras 9.14 (68) d Old Peninsula 7.6 (48).

■ Division 2 Men’s. Whitefriars 10.7 (67) de St Marys Salesian 6.17 (53). Wattle Park

14.4 (88) d Aquinas 9.12 (66). Brunswick

13.6 (84) d Elsternwick 8.15 (63).Hawthorn 16.15 (111) d MHSOB 11.11 (77). South Melbourne Districts 13.11 (89) d Bulleen Templestiowe 5.5 (35).

■ Division 2 Men’s Reserves. St Marys Salesian 11.12 (78)_ d Whitefriars 6.2 (38). Wattle Park 20.10 (130) d Aquinas 16.7 (103). Brunswick 22.15 (147) d Elsternwick 8.l9 (57). MHSOB 18.11 (119) d Hawthorn 9.6 (60). South Melbourne Districts 14.11 (95) d Bulleen Templestowe 18.11 (119).

■ Division 3 Men’s. St Johns 23.17 (155) d La Trobe University 9.8 (62). Power House 14.16 (100) d Canterbury 14.9 (93). Swinburne University v Chadstone. Albert Park 20.6 (126) d Box Hill North 12.15 (87). North Brunswick v Richmond Central. Eley Park: Bye.

■ Division 3 Men’s Reserves. St John’s 10.16 (76) d La Trobe 4.10 (34). Power House 8.7 (55) d Canterbury 8.4 (52). Swinburne University d Chadstone. Box Hill North 10.15 (75) d Albert Park 5.15 (45). North Brunswick v Richmond Central. Eley Park: Bye.

■ Under 19 Premier Men’s. St Bedes/Mentone 13.14 (92) d Williamstown CYMS 4.9 (33). Old Brighton 12.16 (88) d St Kevin’s 6.8 (44). Caulfield Grammarians 12.12 (84) d Beaumaris 9.9 (63). Old Xaverians 15.10 (100) d Uni Blues 12.8 (80). Old Scotch 15.19 (109) d De La Salle 1.6 (12).

■ Under 19 Division 1 Men’s. Hampton Rovers 19.7 (121) d Glen Eira 8.7 (55). Old Heileybury 21.14 (140) d Old Trinity 11.16 (82). St Bernards 13.15 (93) d Fitzroy 4.13

(37). Old Carey 19.14 (128) d University Blacks 3.5 (23). Old Melburnians 11.10 976) d Old Xaverians 10.5 (65).

■ Under 19 Division 2 Men’s. Old Ivanhoe 8.17 (65) d Old Camberwell 6.13 (49). Parkdale Vultures 14.7 (91) d Parkdale 6.7 (43). St Bedes/Mentone 2 17.15 (117) d Mazenod 9.7 (61). University Blues 9.12 (66) d St Kevins 2 4.6 (30).

■ Under 19 Division 3 Men’s. Monash Blues 9.7 (61) d Kew 6.12 (48). Oakleigh 6.13 (49) d PEGS 4.4 (28). Therry Penola 16.12 (108) d MHSOB 7.9 (51). Ormond 11.10 (76) d St Marys Salesian 3.13 (31). Preston 15.10 (100) d Bulleen Templestowe 4.10 (34). Collegians: Bye.

■ Under 19 Division 4 Men’s. Beaumaris

2 22.24 (156) d St Kevins 3 4.3 (27). Old Xaverians 3 20.21 (141) d Glen Eira 2 6.8 (44). St Bernards 2 14.14 (98) d De La Salle

2 9.12 (66). Williamstown CYMS 2 10.13 (73) d Caulfield Grammarians 9.16 (70).

■ Thirds Division 1 Men’s. Fityzroy 12.14 (986) d Old Trini9ty 13.6 (84). Old Xaverians 15.14 (104) d Old Geelong 9.6 (60). Old Brighton 19.15 (129) d Old Melburnians 5.3 (33).

■ Thirds Division 2 Men’s. Collegians v Old Xaverians. University Blacks 15.13 (103) d Richmond Central 6.8 (44). Ajax v Beaumaris. Williamstown CYMS: Bye.

■ Thirds Division 3 Men’s North. Ajax Thirds 10.19 (79) d Marcellin 5.5 (35). Parkside 19.11 (125) d Whitefriars 8.4 (52). Old Camberwell 20.16 (136) d South Melbourne 2.2 (14). Masala 14.9 (93) d West Brunswick 1.6 (12).

■ Thirds Division 3 Men’s South. Old Brighton 19.8 (122) d Old Scotch 6.8 (44). Williamstown CYMS 11.10 (76) d Hampton Rovers 9.12 (66).Mentone Panthers 14.15 (99) d Glen Eira 4.7 (31). St Kevins 10.11 (71) d Old Xaverians 7.8 (50).

■ Thirds Division 4 Men’s North. Hawthorn 9.20 (74) d MHSOB 4.126 (40). Marcellin 12.10 (82) d Canterbury 3.4 (22). Old Carey 19.19 (133) d Old Yarra Cobras 0.2 (2). UHS-VU 230.21 (141) d Swinburne 4.2 (26). Kew 17.10 (112) d Box Hill 5.8 (38).

■ Thirds Division 4 Men’s South. De La Salle 13.13 (91) d Mazenod 6.9 (45). Parkdale 10.17 (77) d Monash Blues 5.6 (36). Ormond 9.23 (77) d St Marys Salesian 6,7 (43). Wattle Park 13.14 (92) d Elsternwick 6.13 (49). Oakleigh 17.12 (114) d Masala 2.2 (14).

■ Thirds Premier Men’s. Uni Blues 16.15 (111) d St Bernards 5.4 (34). Old Xaverians 16.10 (106) d St Kevins 6.9 (45). Old Scotch 11.5 (71) d Fitzroy 6.6 (42).

Eastern

■ Eastern Football Netball League. Premier Seniors. Balwyn 25.13 (163) d Norwood 9.7 (61). Blackburn 14.11 (95) d Vermont 10.11 (71). Noble Park 8.13 (61) d Doncaster East 7.9 (51). Rowville 21.14 (140) d Berwick 10.4 (64). East Ringwood 16.18 (114) d South Croydon 9.9 (63).

■ Premier Reserves. Balwyn v Norwood. Blackburn 7.11 (53) d Vermont 7.7 (49). Noble Park 11.9 (75) d Doncaster East 7.6 (48). Rowville 9.8 (62) d Berwick 4.4 (28). East Ringwood 6.10 (48) d South Croydon 5.4 (34).

■ Premier Under 19.5. Rowville 10.6 (66)

d Berwick 8.13 (61). Doncaster East 13.8 (86) d Noble Park 7.11 (53). Balwyn v Norwood./ Blackburn Black 12.5 (77) d Vermont Purple 9.7 (61). East Ringwood: Bye.

■ Division 1 Seniors. Bayswater 12.7 (79)

d Doncaster 5.13 (43). Mitcham 14.13 (97)

d Mooroolbark 9.11 (65). Beaconsfield 12.10 (82) d North Ringwood 10.15 (75). Montrose 19.9 (123) d South Belgrave 7.14 (56). Park Orchards 12.14 (86) d Wantirna South 7.9 (51).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Doncaster 7.6 (48)

d Bayswater 5.8 (38). Mitcham 14.11 (95) d Mooroolbark 3.3 (21). North Ringwood 7.10 (52) d Beaconsfield 7.6 (48). Montrose 8.6 (54) d South Belgrave 6.6 (42). Park Orchards

9.6 (60) d Wantirna South 6.7 (43).

■ Division 1 Under 19.5. Surrey Park 19.17 (131) d Bayswater 1.1 (7). Mitcham

14.16 (100) d Mooroolbark 4.1 (25). Beaconsfield 5.7 (37) d North Ringwood 3.9 (27). South Belgrave 10.13 (73) d Montrose 8.5 (53). Park Orchards 11.11 (77) d Wan-tirna South 6.3 (39).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Boronia 20.18 (138) d Mulgrave 4.3 (27). Ringwood 9.11 (65) d East Burwood 4.9 (33). Templestowe 16.15 (111) d The Basin 6.6 (42). Waverley Blues 13.13 (91) d Heathmont 4.3 (27). Croydon 13.4 (82) d Lilydale 7.7 (49).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Boronia 12.6 (78) d Mulgrave 3.5 (23). East Burwood 15.9 (99) d Ringwood 2.3 (15). Templestowe 6.9 (45). Heathmont 3.9 (27) d Waverley Blues 3.6 (24). Croydon 9.5 (59) d Lilydale 6.8 (44).

■ Division 2 Under 19.5. Mulgrave 13.12 (90) d The Basin 8.4 (52). Heathmont 7.10 -52) d Waverley Blues 7.9 (51). Croydon 10.9 (69) d Lilydale 3.4 (22). East Burwood: Bye.

■ Division 3 Seniors. Coldstream 13.11 (89) d Knox 10.5 (65). Donvale 8.14 (62) d Surrey Park 8.9 (57). Silvan 10.11 (71) d Fairpark 7.8 (50). Oakeligh District 10.23 (83) d Warrandyte 11.7 (73). Upper Ferntree Gully 10.7 (67) d Ferntree Gully 4.4 (28).

■ Division 3 Reserves. Knox 8.5 (53) d Coldstream 5.7 (37). Donvale v Surrey Park. Fairpark 7.9 (51) d Silvan 5.10 (40). Oakleigh District 12.8 (80) d Warrandyte 8.7 (55). Upper Ferntree Gully 10.13 (73) d Ferntree Gully 5.1 (31).

■ Division 3 Under 19.5. Knox 21.20 (146) d Coldstream 1.0 (6). Donvale v Surrey Park. Upper Ferntree Gully 11.11 (77) d Ferntree Gully 9.3 (47). Fairpark: Bye. Warrandyte: Bye.

■ Division 4 Seniors. Nunawading 15.13 (103) d Croydon North 11.7 (73). Scoresby 21.14 (140) d Forest Hill 8.6 (54). Chirnside Park 16.10 (106) d Whitehoprser Pioneers 13.7 (85). Kilsyth: Bye.

■ Division 4 Reserves. Croydon North 1.1 (7) d Nunawading 0.0 (0). Scoresby 15.11 (101) d Forest Hill 1.3 (9). Whitehorse Pioneers 16.9 (105) d Chirnside Park 4.6 (30). Kilsyth: Bye.

■ Division 2 Seniors. Chirnside Park 6.8 (44) d Berwick 2.8 (20). Ferntree Gully/South Croydon 9.8 (62) d South Belgrave 3.9 (27). Blackburn v Kilsyth. Mitcham Yellow 5.12 (44) d Scoresby 4.6 (30). Wantirna South White: Bye.

Essendon District

■ Premier Division Seniors. Avondale Heights 9.9 (63) d Greenvale 7.9 (51). Aberfeldie 16.13 (109) d Airport West 10.14 (74). Keilor 21.12 (138) d Deer Park 9.8 (62). Strathmore 20.8 (128) d East Keilor 7.13 (55). Pascoe Vale 16.14 (110) d Essendon Doutta Stars 6.6 (42).

■ Premier Division Reserves. Greenvasle 15.13 (103) d Avondale Heights 2.7 (19). Aberfeldie 17.11 (113) d Airport West 2.7 (19). Keilor 49.21 (315) d Deer Park 0.0 (0). Strathmore 16.14 (110) d East Keilor 5.1 (31). Essendon Doutta Stars 7.109 (52) d Pascoe Vale 6.11 (47).

■ Premier Division Under 18.5. Avondale Heights 10.6 (66) d Greenvale 9.7 (61). Aberfeldcie 22.20 (152) d Airport West 0.1 (1). Strathmore 23.14 (152) d East Keilor 0.2 (2). Pascoe Vale 10.9 (69) d Maribyrnong Park 4.10 (34). Keilor: Bye.

■ Division 1 Seniors. Hillside 11.12 (78) d Craigieburn 8.9 (57). Roxburgh Park 11.9 (75) d Keilor Park 10.10 (70). Moonee Valley 15.15 (105) d Oak Park 11.7 (73). St Albansx 15.18 (108) d Rupertswood 5.6 (36). West Coburg 12.9 (81) d Maribyrnong Park 8.17 (65). Tullamarine: Bye.

■ Division 1 Reserves. Hillside 25.12 (162) d Craigieburn 1.2 (8). Keilor Park 13.5 (83) d Roxburgh Park 10.9 (69). Oak Park 11.14 (80) d Moonee Valley 8.11 (59). St Albans 18.7 (115) d Rupertswood 5.2 (32). Maribyrnong Park 13.12 (90) d West Coburg 6.4 (40). Tullamarine: Bye.

■ Division 1 Thirds. Hillside 12.9 (81) d Aberfeldie 7.6 (48). Keilor 18.25 (133) d Greenvale 0.0 (0). Maribyrnong Park 8.10 (58) d Oak Park 6.7 (43). Strathmore 12.10 (82) d Glenroy 4.12 (36).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Burnside Heights 18.21 (129) d Hadfield 5.6 (36). Coburg Districvts 12.16 (88) d Northern Saints 12.9 981). Westmeadowsa 26.15 (171) d East Sunbury 4.7 (31). Taylors Lakes 15.16 (106) d Sunbury Kangaroos 10.14 (74). Glenroy: Bye.

■ Division 2 Reserves. Burnside Heights 18.12 (120) d Hadfield 5.6 (36). Coburg Districts 11.7 (73) d Northern Saints 7.4 (46). Westmeadows 15.16 (106) d East Sunbury 3.2 (20). Taylors Lakes 12.16 (88) d Sunbury Kangaroos 3.2 (20). Glenroy: Bye.

■ Division 2 Thirds. Airport West 12.10 (82) d Avondale Heights 3.2 (20). Taylors Lakes 6.7 (43) d Hillside 4.8 (32). St Albans 9.17 (71) d Northern Saints 2.0 (12). Sunbury Kangaroos 11.14 (80) d Roxburgh Park 3.4 (22).

Morn. Peninsula

■ Division 1 Seniors. Mt Eliza 13.14 (92) d Dromana 7.11 (53). Red Hill 14.6 (90) d Frankston Bombers 6.10 (46). Sorrento 11.12 (78) d Frankston YCW 11.8 (74). Pines 10.6 (66) d Langwarrinn 8.14 (62). Mornington 18.5 (113) d Rosebud 14.13 (97).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Dromana v Mt Eliza. Red Hill 11.8 (74) d Frankston Bombers 8.3 (51). Frankston YCW 13.11 (89) d Sorrento 4.3 (30). Langwarrin 12.10 982) d Pines 6.3 (39). Rosebud 9.10 (64) d Mornington 8.11 (59).

■ Division 1 Under 19. Dromana v Mt Eliza. Frankston YCW 7.15 (57) d Sorrento 4.9 (33). Langwarrin 8.8 (56) de Pines 7.2 (44). Mornington 16.22 (118) d Rosebud 1.4 (10). Red Hill: Bye.

■ Division 2 Seniors. Tyabb 12.14 (86) d Rosebud 12.10 (82). Chelsea 20.19 (139) d Rye 5.4 (34). Crib Point 11.18 (84) d Karingal 7.13 (55). Devon Meadows 36.20 (236) d Hastings 5.2 (32). Edithvale-Aspendale 11.10 (76) d Somerville 11.7 (73). Pearcedale 15.14 (104) d Seaford 9.12 (66).

■ Division 2 Reserves. Tyabb 8.9 (57) d Bonbeach 6.2 (38). Chelsea 18.24 (132) d Rye 1.2 (8). Crib Point 23.13 (151) d Karingal 0.1 (1). Devon Meadows 17.15 (117) d Hastings 1.1 (7). Edithvale-Aspendale 14.9 (93) d Somerville 6.7 (43). Pearcedale 6.8 (44) d Seaford 5.8 (38).

■ Division 2 Under 19. Bonbeach 16.14 (110) d Tyabb 2.5 (17). Crib Point v Karingal. Devon Meadows 11.7 973) d Rye 8.4 (52). Edithvale-Aspendale 11.14 (80)) d Somerville 2.4 (16). Seaford 15.9 (99) d Pearcedale 6.7 (43).

Northern

■ Division 1 Seniors. Greensborough 15.19 (109) d Eltham 9.6 (60). Hurstbridge 12.14 (86) d Eltham 9.6 (60). Montmorency 11.16 (82) d Bundoora 9.6 (60). Banyule 12.22 (94) d Macleod 11.10 (76). Greensborough 13.8 (86) d West Preston-Lakeside 11.8 (74). Heidelberg 12.13 (85) d North Heidelberg 6.14 (50).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Greensborough 10.11 (71) d Eltham 9.7 (61). Heidelberg 17.12 (114) d North Heidelberg 5.1 (31). Hurstbridge 9.14 (68) d Eltham 7.12 (54). Montmorency 20.19 (139) d Bundoora 2.6 (18). Banyule 12.12 (84) d Macleod 8.11 (59). Greensborough 13.12 (90) d West PrestonLakeside 2.7 (19).

■ Division 1 Under 19.5. Eltham 10.12 (72) d Greensborough 8.7 (55). Banyule 7.1 (43) ed Eltham 1.4 (10). Greensborough 1 17.12 (114) d West Preston-Lakeside 1.7 (13). Diamond Creek 7.5 (47) d Montmorency 5.12 (47). Heidelberg 7.2 (44) d North Heidelberg 2.1 (13).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Whittlesea 10.14 (74) d St Mary’s 6.25 (61). Lower Plenty 10.17 (77) d Laurimar 10.13 (73). South Morang 14.18 (100) d Watsonia 11.8 974). Panton Hill 11.11 (77) d Northcote Park 11.6 (72). Diamond Creek 12.11 (83) d Thomastown 7.10 (52).

■ Division 2 Reserves. St Marys 10.12 (72) d Whittlesea 10.9 (69). Laurimar 14.11 (95) d Lower Plenty 4.6 (30). Watsonia 12.14 (86) d South Morang 8.5 (53). Panton Hill 34.21 (225) d Northcote Park 3.3 (21). Diamond Creek 10.10 (70) d Thomastown 6.9 (45).

SCORES FROM SATURDAY MATCHES

Northern

■ Division 2 Under 19.5. Hurstbridge 17.17 (119) d Thomastown 4.6 (30). St Mary’s 12.10 982) d Whittlesea 9.9 (63). Laurimar 10.12 (72) d Lower Plenty 4.3 (27). South Morang: Bye.

■ Division 3 Seniors. Old Eltham Collegians 11.;8 (74) d Epping 9.18 (72). Fitzroy Stars 15.15 (105) d Lalor 6.2 (38). Mernda 17.13 -115) d Heidelberg West 10.9 (69). Kilmore 13.18 (96) d Reservoir 4.8 (32). Old Paradians 6.6 (42) d Ivanhoe 5.6 (38). Kinglake: Bye.

■ Division 3 Reserves. Epping 12.12 (84)) d Old Eltham Collegians 10.6 (66). Fitzroy Stars 13.19 (97) d Lalor 6.3 (39). Kilmore 28.15 (183) d Reservoir 0.3 (3). Mernda 15.20 (110) d Heidelberg West 5.3 (33). Old Paradians 8.11 (59) d Ivanhoe 8.9 (57). Kinglake: Bye.

■ Division 3 Under 19.5. Greensborough 2 210.3 (63) d Diamond Creek 2 4.14 (38). Bundoora 15.17 (107) d Pasnton Hill 7.11 (53). Mernda 15.3 (93) d Old Paradians 8.9 (57). Macleod 13.3 (81) d Banyule 2 8.7 (55).

Outer East

■ Premier Division Seniors. Narre Warren 19.11 (125) d Pakenham 11.10 (76). Wandin 10.17 (77) d Mt Evelyn 10.11 (71). Upwey tecoma 11.14 (80) d Monbulk 8.10 (58). Olinda Ferny Creek 15.13 (103) d Emerald 6.9 (45). Woori Yallock 14.7 (910 d Officer 9.2 (56). Gembrook Cockatoo 10.8 (68) d Berwick Springs 8.12 (60).

■ Premier Division Reserves. Narre Warren 19.15 (129) d Pakenham 1.1 (7). Wandin 9.10 (64) d Mt Evelyn 2.7 (19). Upwey Tecoma 12.8 (80) d Monbulk 4.5 (29). Olinda Ferny Creek 9.12 (66) d Emerald 6.10 (46). Officer 17.13 (115) d Woori Yallock 5.5 (35). Berwick Springs 3.11 (29) d Gembrook Cockatoo 3.7 (25).

■ Division 1 Seniors. Yarra Junction 16.10 (106) d Powelltown 10.5 (65). Alexandra 22.9 (141) d Yea 10.5 (65). Warburton Millgrove 11.7 (73) d Seville 8.8 (56). Belgrave 25.12 (162) d Yarra Glen 8.5 (53). Healesville: Bye.

■ Division 1 Reserves. Powelltown 9.6 (60) d Yarra Junction 6.9 (45). Alexandra 14.9 (93) d Yea 0.6 (6). Seville 9.11 (65) d Warburton Millgrove 3.6 (24). Belgrave 23.17 (155) d Yarra Glen 0.3 (3). Healesville: Bye.

■ Under 19 Boys. Narre Warren 15.13 (103) d Pakenham 4.7 (31). Upwey Tecoma 13.14 (92) d Wandin 1.8 (14). Offiocer 9.10 (64) d Gembrook Cockatoo 6.6 (42).

■ Under 18 Boys. Mt Evelyn 13.14 (92) d Olinda ferny Creek 6.7 (43). Woori Yallock 13.15 (93) d Seville 3.5 (23). Healesville 14.14 (98) d Upwey Tecoma 4.8 (32).

■ Division 1 Women’s Seniors. Berwick Springs 2.4 (16) d Belgrave 1.3 (9). Upwey Tecoma 4.4 (28) d Pakenham 1.5 (11). Healesville 4.14 (38) d Olinda Ferny Creek 4.124 (38).

■ Division 2 Women’s Seniors. Monbulk 8.6 (54)) d Emerald 2.1 (13). Warburton Millgrove 9.9 (63) d Seville 5.7 (37). Woori Yallock 5.14 (44) d Officer 1.4 (10). Wandin 8.,10 (58) d Thornton Eildon 0.3 (3).

Southern

■ Division 1 Seniors. Bentleigh 13.16 (94) d Chelsea Heights 9.100 (64). Cheltenham 15.11 (101) d Dingley 10.5 (65)). St Paul’s McKinnon 15.12 (102) d Cranbourne Eagles 8.11 (59). Springvale Districts 15.14 (104) d East Brighton 9.10 (64). Mordialloc v Port Melbourne Colts.

■ Division 2 Seniors. East Malvern 9.15 (69) d Highett 8.7 (55). Hampton Park 8.14 (62) d Doveton Doves 9.7 (61)0. Caulfield Bears 15.6 (96) d Keysborough 13.17 (95). Murrumberena 16.17 (113) d St Kilda 10.8 (68). Endeavour Hills 12.8 (80) d Skye 8.100 (58).

■ Division 3 Seniors. Heatherton 12.13 (85) d Narre South Saints 8.7 (55). Carrum Patterson Lakes 14.5 (89) d Frankston Dolphins 12.8 (80). South Mornington 13.14 (92) d Black Rock 9.9 (63). Lyndhurst 14.5 (89) d Ashwood 10.7 (67)

■ Division 4 Seniors. Lyndale 15.15 (105) d Dandenong West 11.8 (74). Hampton 15.13 (103) d Hallam 3.11 (29). Clayton 10.9 (69) d Doveton Eagles 6.12 (48). Moorabbin Kangaroos 22.18 (150) d South Yarra 7.5 (47).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Bentleigh 17.29 (131) d Chelsea Heights 0.0 (0). Dingley 10.5 (65) d Cheltenham 9.3 (57). Cranbourne Eagles 15.7 (97) d St Paul’s McKinnon 4.1 (25). Springvale Districts 14.9 (9300 d East Brighton 4.5 (29). Mordialloc v Port Melbourne Colts.

■ Division 2 Reserves. East Malvbern 5.7 (37) drew with Highett 5.7 (37). Doveton Doves 8.13 (61) d Hampton Park 9.5 (59). Caulfield Bears 10.6 (66) d Keysborough 5.3 (33). Murrumbeena 16.11 (107) d St Kilda City 0.2 (2). Skye 7.14 (56)) d Endeavour Hills 6.8 (44).

■ Division 3 Reserves. Heatherton 8.14 (62) d Narre South Saints 4.8 (32). Frankston Dolphins 12.12 (84) d Carrum Patterson Lakes 4.7 (31). Black Rock 18.12 (120) d South Mornington 4.7 (31). Lyndhurst 10.6 (66) d Ashwood 9.4 (58).

■ Division 4 Reserves. Lyndale 22.9 (141) d Dandenong West 2.3 (15). Hampton 12.3 (75) d Hallam 7.11 (53). Clayton 16.20 (116) d Doveton Eagles 0.3 (3). Moorabbin Kangaroos 25.11 (161) d South Yarra 6.3 (39).

■ Open Grade Division 1. Cheltenham 12.11 (83) d Carrum Patterson Lakes 2.5 (17). Heatherhill 13.8 (86) d Lyndhurst 3.3 (21). Skye 10.6 (66) d Springvale Districts 5.7 (37). Dingley 10.10 (70) d Highett 9.8 (62).

■ Open Grade Division 2. Lyndale v Hallam. Endeavour Hills 7.5 (47) d Murrumbeena 3.9 (27). Lyndhusrt 7.6 (48) d Keysborough 6.6 (42). Narre South Saints v Black Rock.

■ Division 1 Under 19.5. Bentleigh 27.17 (179) d Chelsea Heights 3.2 (20). Frankston Dolphins 12.10 (82) d Endeavour Hills 6.6 (42). Cranbourne 7.4 (46) ed Highett 6.10 (46). Murrumbeena 10.16 (76) d Dingley 2.1 (13).

■ Division 2 Under 19.5. Cheltenham 25.17 (167) d Ashwood 6.2 (38). Carrum Patterson Lakes 17.18 (120) d Lyndhurst 4.3 (27). Heatherton 16.14 (110) d Narre South Saints 3.3 (21).

Western Region

■ Division 1 Seniors. Yarraville Seddon Eagles 17.15 (117) d Caroline Springs 6.9 (45). Spotswood 13.14 (92) d Hopp[ers Crossing 7.16 (58)./ Point Cook 7.16 (58) d Parkside 5.10 (40). Werribee District Seniors 11.17 (83) d Point Cook Centrals 10.10 (70).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Caroline Springs v Yarraville Seddon Eagles. Spotswood 12.6 (78) d Hoppers Crossing 10.8 (68). Point Cook 12.12 (84) d Parkside 3.3 (21)). Werribee Districts 18.22 (130) d Point Cook Centrals 3.5 (23).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Sunshine Heights v North Footscray. Suns v Laverton Magpies. Newport 21.21 (147) d Western Rams 5.5 (35). Albion 30.15 (195) d Albanvale 4.7 (31). Sunshine 37.31 (253) d North Sunshine 0.1 (1). Braybrook 19.10 (124) d Tarneit 4.8 (32). Wyndhamvale 7.17 (59) d West Footscray 7.12 (54).

■ Division 2 Reserves. North Footscray 17.11 (113) d Sunshine Heights 3.9 (27). Suns 19.21 (135) d Laverton Magpies 0.0 (0). Newport 25.16 (166) d Western Rams 0.0 (0).

Albion 13.17 (95) d Albanvale 3.1 (19). Sunshine 19.23 (197) d North Sunshine 0.0 (0). Braybrook 26.12 (172) d Tarneit 0.3 (3). West Footscray 9.8 (62) d Wyndhamvale 4.11 (35).

Country Leagues: Goulburn Valley

■ Seniors. Euroa 9.14 (68) d Tatura 5.4 (34). Mansfield 15.9 (99) d Shepparton Swans

14.12 (96). Mooroopna 21.13 (129) d Benalla

5.7 (37). Rochester v Kyabram. Shepparton 16.16 (132) d Shepparton United 8.3 (51). Echuca, Seymour: Bye.

■ Reserves. Euroa 13.10 (88) d Tatura 6.4 (40). Shepparton Swans 4.5 (29) d Mansfield 3.4 (22). Mooroopna 9.12 (66) d Benalla 4.5 (29). Rochester 9.10 (64) d Kyabram 4.10 (34). Shepparton 12.12 (84) d Shepparton United 3.2 (20. Echuca, Seymour: Bye.

Kyabram District

■ Seniors. Avenel 18.12 (120) d Violet Tgown 8.13 (61). Dookie United 11.13 (79) d Undera 9.5 (59). Tallygaroopna 16.13 (109) d Girgarre 11.7 (73). Lancaster 17.15 (117) d Stanhope 6.3 (39). Shepparton East 21.9 (135) d Longwood 3.5 (23). Merrigum 16.12 -108) d Rushworth 12.10 (82). MurchisonToolamba v Nagambie.

■ Reserves. Avenel 28.11 (179) d Violet Town 00.2 (2). Dookie United 23.21 (159) d Undera 4.2 (26). Tallygaroopna 17.4 (106) d Girgarre 4.6 (30). Lancaster 20.15 (135) d Stanhope 3.4 (22). Shepparton East 16.12 (108) d Longwood 12.0 (6). Merrigum 26.18 (174) d Rushworth 2.3 (15). MurchisonToolamba v Nagambie.

■ Under 18. Undera v Tallygaroopna. Lancaster 23.20 (158) d Stanhope 1.2 (8). Shepparton East 20.12 (132) d Longwood 1.6 (12). Murchison-Toolamba v Nagambie. Violet Town: Bye.

Riddell District

■ Seniors. Wallan 14.12 (96) d Diggers Rest 10.5 (65). Riddell 7.13 (55)_ d Kyneton 3.8 (26). Romsey 10.8 (68) d Melton Centrals 10.5 (65). Macedon 9.10 (64) d Woodend Hesket 6.2 (38). Lancefield: Bye.

■ Reserves. Diggers Rest 11.5 (71) d Wallan 8.7 (55). Riddell 5.10 (40) d Kyneton 5.5 (35). Romsey 20.14 (134) d Melton Centrals 0.1 (1). Macedon 16.8 (104) d WoodendHesket 9.1 (55). Lancefield: Bye.

■ Under 19. Wallan 8.5 (53) d Diggers Rest 6.9 (45). Kyneton 8.8 (56) ed Riddell 8.6 (54). Macedon 8.11 (59) d Romsey 5.5 (35). Gisborne 11.10 (76) d Lancefield 3.3 (21).

Geelong District

■ Seniors. Belmont Lions 16.15 (111) d Corio 15.10 (100). Inverleigh 14.11 (95) d Bell Post 9.6 (60). North Geelong 10.12 (72) d Anakie 9.6 (60). East Geelong 12.16 (88) d Thomson 5.9 (39). Werribee Centrals 9.10 (64) d GW Giants 8.5 (53). Bannockburn 9.12 (66) d Winchelsea 8.9 (57).

■ Reserves. Belmont Lions 11.25 (91) d

Corio 2.3 (15). Inverleigh 22.15 (147) d Bell Post 1.2 (8). Anakie 9.13 (67) d North Geelong 8.2 (50). East Geelong 8.4 (52) Werribee Centrals 4.18 (42) d GW Giants 4.5 (29). Bannockburn 7.10 (52) de Winchelsea 6.9 (45).

Ballarat

■ Seniors. Ba;llarat 11.19 (85) d Bacchus

Marsh 10.9 (69). Darley 21.14 (140) d East Point 6.8 (44). Melton 33.13 (211) d Melton

South 3.5 (23). Sunbury 15.9 (99) d Redan 11.8 (74). Sebastopol 17.16 (118) d Lake

Wendouree 5.,8 (38). North Ballarat: Bye.

■ Reserves. Ballarat 12.17 (89) d Bacchus

Marsh 1.4 (10). East Point 19.11 (125) d

Darley 5.8 (38). Melton South v Melton. Sunbury 17.22 (124) d Redan 1.5 (11). Lake Wendouree 6.6 (42) d Sebastopol 3.7 (35).

North Ballarat: Bye.

■ Under 19. Bacchus Marsh 10.7 (67) d Ballarat 4.9 (33). East Point 11.12 (78) d darley 4.8 (32). Melton 23.14 (152) d Melton

South 2.3 (15). Sunbury 9.10 (70) d Redan 4.9 (33). Lake Wendouree 8.17 (65) d Sebastopol 3.4 (22). North Ballarat: Bye.

West Gippsland

■ Seniors. Inverloch-Kongwak 19.12 (126) d Warragul Industrials 9.2 (56). Koo Wee Rup

13.12 (90) d Dalyston 10.12 (72). Garfield

10.13 (73) d Bunyip 4.6 (30). Kilcunda Bass

Your Stars with Kerry Kulkens

ARIES: (March 21- April 20)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 1.6.5.2.

Lotto Numbers: 2.5.12.26.36.39.

It is possible that you may encounter challenges with communication during this period, which could lead to uncomfortable or embarrassing situations. To relieve stress and potentially improve your luck, it may be worth considering participating in games of chance.

TAURUS: (April 21- May 20)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 2.6.8.5.

Lotto Numbers: 1.15.24.40.22.8.

Your schedule is packed with activities, leaving you with limited time to complete everything. It is important to pace yourself and avoid getting overwhelmed, as taking breaks and resting is crucial. Despite the busy schedule, your social life is thriving and filled with enjoyable experiences.

GEMINI: (May 21- June 21)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 1.3.5.9.

Lotto Numbers: 1.15.26.34.40.33.

During this period, you have the potential to make a favourable impression on individuals of importance. However, it is advisable to avoid going overboard with your attempts at entertaining them. It would be wise to engage in a conversation with a family member and try to come to an understanding.

CANCER: (June 22- July 22)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.6.

Lotto Numbers: 1.15.26.34.4.22.

It's important to resist the urge to celebrate prematurely, as it could potentially harm your prospects of being promoted. To improve your chances, take the time to carefully evaluate and understand the problems at work. By gaining more experience in your role, you'll be better equipped to navigate any challenges that arise and position yourself for success.

LEO: (July 23- August 22)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 1.6.9.8.

Lotto Numbers: 9.8.15.45.32.6

You may have noticed that the problem that has been causing you concern is gradually resolving on its own. In fact, you have been presented with a plethora of new and exciting possibilities that could potentially change your life for the better. This could be the perfect moment for you to carefully evaluate your options and make an informed decision about which path to take.

VIRGO: (August 23- September 23)

Lucky Colour: Violet

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.3.

Lotto Numbers: 2.15.26.34.40.5

As the days unfold, you will find yourself with ample time to indulge in your favourite pastimes or explore new ones. This period will also be marked by a heightened receptivity towards your ideas, making it the perfect time to share them with those around you.

LIBRA: (September 24- October 23)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.3.

Lotto Numbers: 5.12.23.36.39.4.

As you navigate through this period, it is crucial to approach situations with diplomacy and tact. Strive to strike a balance between being pleasant and not appearing overly sweet. It's important to stay mindful of potential pressures to make decisions before you are fully prepared.

SCORPIO: (October 24- November 22)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Sunday

Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.6.

Lotto Numbers: 2.12.26.35.40.33.

As you navigate your social life, it's imperative to prioritize self-care to avoid feeling overwhelmed and drained. Introducing a new diet or exercise regimen can have a positive impact on your physical and mental wellbeing, helping you feel rejuvenated and ready to take on new challenges. Be prepared for significant developments in your career and financial situation during this promising period, where success awaits.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23- December 20)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 4.6.8.9.

Lotto Numbers: 8.15.9.6.21.33.

As you navigate through this period, you may find that the spotlight is on you. It's important to be mindful of how you present yourself during this time as others may be paying close attention. Furthermore, a new interest or activity may capture your attention and require a significant amount of your time and energy. Be sure to prioritize and manage your time effectively to make the most of this period of growth and discovery.

CAPRICORN: (December 21- January 19)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.8.

Lotto Numbers: 2.15.26.34.40.11.

During this enchanting phase, you can expect to receive a lot of admiration and interest from individuals of the opposite gender. If you find yourself drawn towards someone, it's advisable to maintain a composed demeanour and avoid any overt displays of eagerness.

AQUARIUS: (January 20- February 19)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 8.9.5.2.

Lotto Numbers: 8.15.29.34.40.11

You might just be in luck when it comes to searching for a missing item or finding great deals while shopping. Additionally, you could have the opportunity to make new connections with interesting people who can introduce you to exciting experiences and novel activities.

PISCES: (February 20- March 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 2.6.5.4.

Lotto Numbers: 5.12.24.45.40.33.

The near future may hold an exciting surprise celebration for you, possibly involving someone close to you. Additionally, you may receive news from a distant location that could spark your imagination and lead to new plans, resulting in more happiness and fulfilment in your life.

12.16 (88) d Korumburra 5.7 (37). Nar Nar Goon 15.9 (99) d Phillip Island 7.8 (50). Cora Lynn 11.6 (72) d Tooradin-Dalmore 9.9 (63). Sign

QUOKKA CLASSIC OVER 1200 METRES

■ One of the most popular races run across Australia this time of the year is the Quokka, run in Western Australia on April 20.

The early favorite is the champion Western Australia mare, Amelia’s Jewel.

She was unlucky when she missed the start and was last on settling down over the 1200 metre trip, and at the turn, but flashed home for second, beaten a short half head, behind the winner Overpass and the Victorian mare, Bella Nipotina.

Overpass is also one of the best going around and will tackle the big race again.

Trained by Bjorn Baker, he is all class and will close again.

Also the Victorian mare, Bella Nipotina, not far away last year, will have another crack at the big event.

The Victorian star, I Wish I Win, could go around here and handles all tracks and is smart in the care of leading Victorian trainer Peter Moody.

He was narrowly beaten in the Everest last year. He also won the T.J.Smith Stakes and the Golden Eagle.

Due to his regular rider Luke Nolen still unavailable to ride him, leading rider James McDonald will have the ride.

One of the smart Snowden team, King of Sparta, is smart on his day having won the Expressway over 1200 metres at Randwick on February 17.

He has tackled the best many times and always puts in.

One that is v quick is the James Cummings trained mare, In Secret , a brilliant winner a couple of years ago, ridden by the ill feted young senior rider, Dean Holland.

He unfortunately was killed at a country meeting, only weeks after getting the late ride on the mare in the Newmarket. She is a good mare, and will out in again here.

Another Western Australia that goes well is Oscars Fortune, trained by WA mentor Dion Luciani, who won the Placid Ark , and has a good record for four wins and three seconds.

Another who always puts its best foot forward is the Matthew Smith trained Buenos Nochis, who continues taking on the best in the big races.

Another top sprinter having a go here is the popular galloper, Private Eye, under the top Sydney trainer Joe Pride, and always gives his all.

There a number of horses not far behind. They include Asforra, Learning to Fly, Aft Cabin, I Am Me, Mazu and Rothfire. It will be a strong field.

On her home track, Amelia’s Jewel will be hard to beat from the likes of I Wish I Win, Overpass and Private Eye. It’s a tough ask.

Across the border

■ The reaction to the mooted transfer of ownership of the Goulburn Racecourse from the club to Racing NSW has been surprisingly strong in the broader thoroughbred industry.

What started off as an infrastructure announcement has evolved into a series of stories

Ted Ryan

around the precise nature of what is being presented before members for a vote. It prompted a broader discussion about the role of clubs and indeed that of PRAs in the future management of racecourses.

Racing NSW’s CEO Peter V’landys says the strategy is about preserving racecourses for years to come with Goulburn to join five others acquired by Racing NSW over recent years.

But where does that strategy sit in the context of the potential closure and redevelopment of Rosehill?

It has become a divisive issue and independent MP Mark Latham weighed into things with a concerted attack on V’landys, Racing NSW and the Australian Turf Club under parliamentary privilege.

★

In the wagering space, 2024 is set to be a year marked by regulatory change.

The first step of this is the passage of a bill through the Northern Territory Parlament, bringing the new Racing and Wagering Act into effect from July 1.

In the Bloodstock space, the Yulong team had a Golden Day with a golden quinella in the Ranvet Stakes with two of their sires quinellaing the rich Golden Slipper.

The victory of Veight in the George Ryder was also a major milestone, as he became the first Group One winner conceived in a Yulong Stallion barn, by their foundation stallion Grunt. The numbers look good at the burgeoning influence of Yulong’s stallions.

Finally, Inglis announced its catalogue for the Chairman’s Sale in May, with 679 mares or fillies to sell including 56 stakes horses.

In wagering, tough times continue for Australia’s biggest bookmakers with Flutter confirming its Australian powerhouse Sportsbet has seen its revenue drop 7 per cent through 2023, while its market share has also slid downwards.

Meanwhile, the Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sales got underway and the first day highlighted by a record price paid for a filly, with a daughter of I Am Invincible for $400,000.

On a footnote, awell -travelled Bloodstock figure at Easter Sales recently was that man about town, Sydney’s John Singleton.

John Singleton now 82, hasn’t lost the zest racing.

Although he may have sold his farm and a lot of his broodmares this year, but in his own words “I still love racing horses and I still love gambling.”

So, he was happy to part with $700,000 for an I Am Invincible filly, out of Group One winner Lucia Valentina.

- Ted Ryan

Overpass.Racing Photos.

Jewel. Racing Photos.

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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

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•

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BLINDS. Clarke’s. Suitable for 4 bedroom house, 1 kitchen, 238cm x 120cm down. Dining 2 x 177cm x 125cm. Deck 180cm x 210cm, `100cm c 10cm down. Lounge 230cm x 177cm. Bedroom 1 x 2 60x 180 x 90 @ x 180 bedroom 2+3 175 x 120cm down. Office/bedroom 4 175cm x 120cm. All as new. Charcoal and beige colour. EC. $950 total. Officer. 0407 339 696. H-K

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TRACK HOLDS WELL FOR MILDURA PACING CUP

■ Mildura Pacing Cup day opened on a wet day in Sunraysia on Saturday April 6, with persistent rain (not heavy)from early morning right through to 5.30pm putting a dampener on the meeting.

However to the credit of the track curator, the track held up well with good times recorded all through the evening.

The feature event – the $50,000 Tasco Petroleum Mildura Pacing Cup Final over 2600 metres - attracted a handy field made up of horses which qualified the previous Tuesday over the shorter trip of 2190 metres lining up in the following order :-

Little LouieAaron Dunn

My Ultimate Billy Luke Dunne

John McLeanEllen Tormey

DangerousAbby Sanderson

Springfield Affair (Emerg)

Western TerrorBlake Jones

Front line

Earl Of Pembroke Jack Laugher

Kowalski Hanover Jackie Barker

Our Vincent Van GoghAlex Ashwood

Helluva Ewa Justice

Serg BlancoRyan Duffy

Dangerous was the heavily supported favourite following his easy victory in the heat, however there was speculation if he could lead with slick beginners Little Louie and My Ultimate Billy inside him.

That theory was thrown out the window with Dangerous easily crossing Little Louie which seemed content to take a trail running into the first turn and My Ultimate Billy angling to be three pegs only to go off stride.

Well backed Earl Of Pembroke threw away his chances when galloping shortly after the start to tail out, with John McLean angling to trail the leading pair followed by stablemate Our Vincent Van Gogh, while Kowalski Analysis was caught leading up the outside division momentarily before both Our Vincent Van Gogh and Helluva went forward to be the first two in the running line relegating Kowalski Analysis to three back being followed by Western Sonador and Serge Blanco at the rear. Earl Of Pembroke after the early mistake caught the field to be last along the markers.

Serge Blanco was first to angle three wide racing for the bell, with Kowalski Analysis coming out ahead of him before struggling and dropping out inconveniencing Serg Blanco.

Kicking away at the straight entrance with race safely in his keeping, Dangerous raced by the Birchip boys registered a 4.2 metre margin in advance of a courageous Helluva, with Little Louie after angling three wide on turning third 2.6 metres back. John McLean used inside runs for fourth 1.8 metres back 3.7 metres clear of Serge Blanco which ran on best when clear.

In quarters of 30.1, 30.8, 28.1 and 29.4 after a lead time of 72.1 seconds, Dangerous returned a mile rate of 1-57.9 - 1.2 seconds outside the track record of 1-56.7 set by Phoenix Prince in 2022.

It was Shane Sanderson’s second Mildura Cup after winning last year with Sahara Tiger driven by son Ryan who landed the 2190 metre J & A Mazzetti Pace on the night.

The $20,000 Club Merbein Mildura Trotters Cup over 2600 metres supplemented the meeting, with Bolinda trainer Brent Lilley’s 6Y0 Muscle Mass-U Dream gelding Kyvalley Heist successful in a rate of 2-07.7.

Driven by 21 year old deep South Islander Tristan Larsen now based at the Lilley stable., Kyvalley Heist raced by Jim Connelly’s KPC Racing one of only two front markers was rated to perfection out in front and never looked like losing, greeting the judge 5.8 metres clear of a death-seating Keayang Xena (20m) and Hatchback (20m) who was a head away. Hot favourite Mercenary (30m) had no luck whatsoever finishing fourth 16.3 metres back after making an early three wide unsuccessful forward move and easing back to the tail.

COMMENT

It is so disappointing that Mildura Cup week has dropped in popularity. For many years the Mildura Club arranged many social functions such as a River Boat Calcutta Cruise, Golf Day, Bowls Competition and a function at the Workers – all have since faded away.

Harness Racing

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker

Eased away

■ Horsham commenced the week on Monday April 8 and Great Western’s Peter Manning snared a double – Franco Nelson-Miss Rivkah filly Moonie River taking the West Side Trivia Tue 34/4 2Y0 Pace over 1700 metres and 7Y0 Peak-Lazy Toes mare Onestep Ahead the 2200 metre Woodlands Stud NZ Trotters Handicap. Moonie River bred and raced by Queensland’s Aldons family driven by Jason Ainsworth enjoyed a sweet passage from the pole on the back of last start Charlton winner Insider Trading was most impressive after easing away from the markers in the straight to record a 2.1 metre victory over the pacemaker in a mile rate of 2-03.4.

Stablemate Blame Game after racing exposed for the last lap was third 17.7 metres away. Onestep Ahead driven by Kerryn for the Adelaide based Cormack family made a one act affair of her race.

Starting outside the front line, Onestep Ahead eased away from a one/one trip in the last lap and sprinting brilliantly dashed to the lead prior to the home turn, scoring by a huge 34 metre margin in advance of the leader Wistful Lady returning a mile rate of 2-11.2. Earl Patrick (barrier three) after racing uncovered battled on gamely for third a head back.

■ Charlton’s John Tormey combined with daughter Ellen to land the 1089 3WM The Shirt Front Sat @ 8-00am Maiden Pace over 1700 metres with Hesaa Lister, a 3Y0 gelded son of Vincent and Ima A Lister in 2-00.4.

Despite racing in the open from gate five, Hesaa Lister was too strong for his rivals, reaching the post 1.5 metres in advance of first starter Keayang Moscato (one/one – three wide home turn) from the extreme draw. Dancin With Lush held third a half neck away after leading.

■ The 1700 metre Worlds Best Hoof Oil Maiden Pace saw Heywood trainer Bec East successful with Sweet Lou-Splash Out filly We Favour Rosie.

Driven by Michjael Bellman, We Favour Rosie settled one/one from the extreme draw as Keayang Galliano went forward from inside the second line to cross Notyouraveragejoe shortly after the start.

Going forward three wide in the last lap to join the leader on the final bend, We Favour Rosie recorded a fine 3.6 metre victory over the pacemaker in 1-59.3. Remmington (gate six) after galloping away made up many yards to settle one/two before going forward three wide in the last lap to finish third 4.4 metres back.

■ Ecklin South trainer Paddy Lee combined with cousin Glen Craven aboard 5Y0 Lincoln Royal-Verdant gelding Royal Division to capture The Weekly Advertiser Pace over 2200 metres.

Raced by Terang’s Lenehan family, Royal Division led all of the way from gate three, accounting for Matty Horsnell’s Silver Mystique which trailed, with Jilliby Adore (one/one) third for Marg Lee to give Terang the trifecta. The margins 8.8 by 5.7 metres in a mile rate of 206.2.

■ Unfortunately the rest of the program was abandoned following heavy rain making the track unsuitable for racing.

Tuesday events

■ Mildura was again the venue for Tuesday’s meeting and Bendigo based Liam Older who has been making regular visits to Mildura landed a double during the evening, taking the Euston Club Pace aboard local trainer Brendan Tune’s 6Y0 Sportswriter-Shadow Flag gelding Beartastic Writer and The Gateway Pace Final for Axedale trainer Mick Carbone with 6Y0 Shadow Play-Western Art mare Malava Lass. Beartastic Writer led throughout from gate three to account for You Little Terror (three pegs from inside the second line) which had eased wide on turning in a mile rate of 2-00.6. Polemarker Highview Hammer which trailed the winner was third. The margins a half neck by a half head in a thrilling finish.

■ Kilmore’s Corey Bell did the same, driving Broken Hill trainer Darren McInnes’ Mach Three-All Mystique 8Y0 gelding Machstique to an all the way victory in the 2190 metre McDonalds Irymple and Mildura Pace and his own 4Y0 Art Major-Jets Girl gelding Major Bert in the Well Done Cup Week Workers Pace over 1790 metres, scoring by 6.3 metres from Mustang Max which trailed from inside the second line, with White Star Sammy a neck back third out wide after a three pegs trip. The mile rate 204.2.

Major Bert was tough after sitting parked from gate four outside Places You Don’t (gate three) to outstay his rivals, accounting for the pacemaker by a neck. Miss Poppys Friend (one/one from outside the front line) was third 1.2 metres away. The mile rate 2-00.4.

Double Day

■ Double day Wednesday with Charlton racing in the afternoon respecting the indigenous people with the annual Djaara Cup meeting and Bendigo at night with the Nutrien juveniles on show.

At Charlton, Derrinal trainer Glenn Bull provided the quinella in the Wimmera Mallee Pace over 1609 metres when 6Y0 Dawn Ofa New Day-Starong Star gelding Go George Go led throughout from gate six to prevail by 8.4 metres from stablemate Stellar Queen which trailed in a rate of 1-59. El Awoman came from well back out wide for third 1.9 metres away. The winner was driven by neighbour Sean O/Sullivan who has been going great guns of late.

■ A decent size plunge was landed in the Swift Freight Trotters Handicap over 2100 metres by Girgarre part-owner/trainer Ken Covington’s 7Y0 Down Under Muscles-Madiskita mare Montana Muscle.

Backed in from the double figure morning line to run at $3.30, Montana Muscle driven by Gary Pekin (four pegs from barrier) eased to be outside the leader Midnight Avenger (gate four) racing for the bell and was too tough at the finish, defeating the leader by a half neck, with Charlie Walker (five pegs – one/one last lap) running his usual honest race for third 1.2 metres away. The mile rate 2-06.1.

■ Allendale owner/trainer Adam Stephens added another winner to the list when 7Y0 Bettors Delight-Lombo Madam Lashe gelding Silver Domino driven by Jordan Leedham scored in the 1609 metre Gitjawil Matom (Chocolate Lily) Pace in 2-01.3.

Going forward three wide from gate four to park outside the leader Straight Up (gate two) which had crossed polemarker Night Safari, Silver Domino raced clear halfway up the running to greet the judge by 6.6 metres from The Regulator which followed him throughout, with Lady Lagertha third a half neck away off a three wide trail last lap from well back.

■ Stawell’s Jason Ainsworth is on a roll at present and 9Y0 Courage Under Fire-Bay Torrent gelding Flaming Lucky was successful in the Murna (Yam Daisy) Pace over 1609 metres. Trained and driven by Jason for partner Natasha Raven, Flaming Lucky at start 154 led throughout from the pole to register a 6.5 metre margin ahead of Salsboy which trailed from inside the second line. Friends (one/one) was third from gate two 5.8 metres away. The mile rate 1-59.1. It was Flaming Luck’s 11th victory.

■ At Bendigo some outstanding performances were produced especially by fillies Rainbow

Sulky Snippets Sulky Snippets

This Week

■ Wednesday – Hamilton/Shepparton, Thursday – Swan Hill, Friday – Ballarat, Saturday – Melton, Sunday – Warragul (Cup), Monday – Maryborough, Tuesday –Shepparton.

Jester (2Y0 C and G) and Keayang Tweetybird (3Y0 F) in the all trotting Nutrien Series program. Goulburn trainer/driver Dennis Day rarely makes a visit to Victoria but did so with Rainbow Jester, a daughter of Majestic Son and Miss Maori Rainbow.

Making her second race appearance following a victory at Menangle on April 2, Rainbow Jester galloped away from the pole shortly after the start to tail out not helping her chances as first starter Voldagha led from gate three.

Gradually making ground to be one/one at the bell, Rainbow Jester was assisted when the leader galloped in the back straight on the final occasion allowing Aldebaran Zane to lead into the final bend with Rainbow Jester chasing valiantly.

Using the sprint lane, Rainbow Jester finished best to prevail by 2.3 metres over Aldebaran Zane, with Voldagha getting going again for third albeit 51 metres away. The mile rate 2-08.4.

■ Keayang Tweetybird was most impressive in her heat. Trained by Marg Lee and driven by son Jason, Keayang Tweetybird (galloped away from gate six giving away a tidy start with polemarker Maoris Mac leading on debut.

Well supported The Priestess also galloped away from gate two to follow Keayang Tweetybird when they both regained their gaits but a long way off the leader.

Moving to be four pegs racing for the bell, Keayang Tweetybird came away from the inside to give chase in the back straight with The Priestess latching to her back.

Showing a good turn of speed prior to the home turn to join the leader, Keayang Tweetybird with no puddydat in sight, ran home determinedly to gain the day by 2 metres over Maoris Mac who wouldn’t give in without a fight, with The Priestess third 4.8 metres back. The mile rate 2-05.8.

■ Nathan Jack was victorious with undefeated Volstead-Cyclone Jetta gelding Derek The Jet in the 3Y0 heat for C&G. Given time to balance from inside the second line, Derek The Jet was off and running at the bell to assume control for the last lap and couldn’t be caught, reaching the wire 2 metres in advance of NSW visitor Valtino which led from gate five. Polemarker Val Thorens used the sprint lane from three pegs for third a half head away. The mile rate 2-03.8.

■ Cardigan trainer Anton Golino’s first starter Enchauffour had scored in the first of the 2Y0 C&G with Nathan Jack in the sulky.

Beginning safely from the pole to trail the leader Aldebaran Denbay (gate three), Enchauffour had little trouble moving around him stretching out beautifully to account for Kyvalley Jagger (six pegs after a bad beginning from outside the front line) which ran home strongly. NSW hope Sioux Warrior after a bad beginning from gate four, rattled home along the sprint lane from seven pegs to be third a neck away. The mile rate 2-10.3.

■ Kiwi filly We Can Have It All (Volstead-Duchess Ella) filly We Can Have It All trained by Jayne Davies appears to be something special when leading throughout from the pole with Chris Alford aboard in the 2nd 3Y0 Fillies Heat. With Chris Alford in the sulky, We Can Have It All ambled around at her leisure, coasting to the wire 12.2 metres in advance of Preferred Love (five pegs – one/two at bell) which flashed home along the sprint lane. Keayang Gypsy was third a neck away after racing exposed at the bell. The mile rate 2-03.1. The other winner being Keayang Kurki for Marg Lee and Jason Lee in the 2Y0 Fillies Prelude.