JULY 1 ISSUE: CHINESE VILLAGE AT FLOWERDALE?
Local Paper FREE
Local and Independent. Not associated with any other publication in this area.
The
Phone: 5797 2656 or 1800 231 311.
www.LocalPaper.com.au
‘The Local Paper’ is published by Dindi Media, a division of Local Media Pty Ltd
H-G17
WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, 2020
Star Tree Services
QUALIFIED ARBORISTS
• Tree Removal • Tree Surgery & Pruning • Consultations & Reports • Elm Leaf Beetle Control • Mulch & Firewood Sales
5783 3170
Free Quotes. Full Insurance Cover www .treeservices.com.au mail@treeservices.com.au
JUST JAPANESE ~ MAPLES Many Varieties from $20. All grafted Great Ideas for 2020 48 Cooper St, Alexandra. Phone: 0478 599 412
* IPL Hair Removal & Face Rejuvenation * Dermalogica Peels Discover the antidote to skin ageing! now at Shop 1/10 High St, Yea Health Solutions For EveryBody 0407 437 866 *Free patch test
FIREWOOD Murray Murray River River Redgum Redgum Yes! Yes! ... ... We We Deliver. P: 1300 87 87 25 E: yarravalley@ brazzen.com.au
ACROSS TECHNOLOGY
CENTRE STATE DRILLING
Page 2 - Wednesday, July 1, 2020
www.LocalPaper.com.au
Killingworth Hill Cafe & Whisky Bar 36 Killingworth Rd, Yea Open 11am-8pm Friday-Sunday Gift Vouchers Available
Cosy open fire. Open Public Holidays. Today’s Menu Charcuterie Boards: Your choice of a meat platter, cheese platter, terrine platter or fish platter all accompanied with fresh home grown and made produce, for example, vegetables, gluten free pesto’s, chutneys, nuts, etc,
RECENTLY AWARDED YEA’S BEST PUB AND BAR BY RESTUARANT GURU
All Products Home-Made. Soups. Beef and Guinness Pies. Sausage Rolls. And Tarts. Sweets as per Specials Board. Teas and Coffees Don’t forget our Famous Devonshire Tea We strive for excellence, we do not rest until our best is better We guarantee our products 100%. If unsatisfactory, please advise staff who will replace or refund immediately
Are you arranging a gathering of friends, family or for a club? The team at Killingworth Hill Café & Whisky Bar will happily host your party Why not call us to discuss your requirements and make a booking?
Killingworth Hill Cafe & Whisky Bar Phone: 0455 266 888 www.killingworthhill.com.au
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL
www.LocalPaper.com.au
Wednesday, July 1, 2020 - Page 3
Page 4 - Wednesday, July 1, 2020
www.LocalPaper.com.au
www.LocalPaper.com.au
$30 MIL. POWERBALL THU., JUNE 25
Tattslotto, Oz Lotto, Powerball and more
vehicle
Buy yo ur ticket at Yea Newsagency
● Office ● Toys Needs ● Inkjet ● Greeting ● Magazines ● Newspapers Cards ● Lotto ● Stationery
Yea Newsagency 74 High St, Yea Phone: 5797 2196
Star Tree Services in
QUALIFIED ARBORISTS
• Tree Removal • Tree Surgery & Pruning • Consultations & Reports • Elm Leaf Beetle Control • Mulch & Firewood Sales
5783 3170 Free Quotes. Full Insurance Cover www.treeservices.com.au mail@treeservices.com.au
Wednesday, July 1, 2020 - Page 5
Page 6 - Wednesday, July 1, 2020
www.LocalPaper.com.au
Star Tree Services in
QUALIFIED ARBORISTS
• Tree Removal • Tree Surgery & Pruning • Consultations & Reports • Elm Leaf Beetle Control • Mulch & Firewood Sales
5783 3170 Free Quotes. Full Insurance Cover www.treeservices.com.au mail@treeservices.com.au
To advertise in The Local Paper contact the office on 9439 9927
www.LocalMedia.com.au
Wednesday, July 1, 2020 - Page 7
‘Exclusive Chinese Village’ at Flowerdale
● Flowerdale residents gathered at the weekend to protest at what they call an ‘exclusive Chinese Village’ being built at Moores Rd, near the hotel. ■ Development of the Cherry Tree Farm, at Flowerdale, with an emphasis on attracting Chinese visitors, has raised objections from the Flowerdale community. A planning permit application is before the Murrindindi Shire Council to develop the Sir, ■ Alexandra’s community wood auction Moores Rd property. A walk to the shops with my children on took place on Saturday (June 27). ■ Property owner Zhi Huang has had his The Council has received a planning permit Saturday afternoon saw us bump into a young Volunteer organiser Andrew Embling said say in response to criticisms from within the application for a tourist village development on stranger on a push bike. the auction involved, Alexandra. Kinder, Flowerdale community about his proposal to the site of the old 50-acre Carric Hill cherry After my daughter greeted him he stopped Alexandra CFA , Murrinindi Little Aths, develop land at Moore Rd. farm. and beckoned us towards him; opening a plasAlexandra Christmas Tree Committee, “I’m here just to state the fact that our The application requests six cabins and a tic bag he had slung over the handlebar. Buxton Primary School, Upper Goulburn proposed group accommodation welcomes community building, valued at approximately As he also carried a fishing rod I guessed Deer Shooters Association, Fawcett Hall everyone from any part of the world,” Mr $950,000. at the contents of the bag. His gesture acCommittee, the Rotary Club of Alexandra, Huang said. The application has been lodged by Shane companied a heavily accented offer to see and the Alexandra Tuck Show . “It is not based on any racialism, regionSylvanspring of Planning Sustainable Soluthe "big fish". A total of 24 trailers were involved in the alism or any form of discrimination. tions of Mullumbimby Creek, NSW. My daughter looked, said "That's good" auction. “Together with our planner Shane Some 24 concerned Flowerdale residents and tried to engage him with more conversaTop price of $500 was for a tandem load Sylvanspring, a local Australian ecovillage met together outdoors on Saturday (June 27) to tion. of Red Gum Wood. Total amount raised fopr planner, it is our preference to join Global discussthe permit application. I looked in the bag expecting to see a Carp the community groups was $7200. Ecovillage Network Australia. Residents discussed concerns with the probut instead saw a Murray Cod. Some 38 people registered for the sale. “Therefore our proposal goes beyond posal such as bio-security risk, traffic manage"Big fish" he said again grinning like a Thanks have been extended to Ayden Australian and Chinese. It is global. ment issues, farming zone compatible commerCheshire cat. Embling, Nicky Grey and Josh Palmer or “Myself lives in Flowerdale for two years, cial activities, threats to the biodiversity in the "Not legal though," I replied. His expreshelping on Saturday morning. and the kids, relatives and friends occasionarea, weed management and importation of fursion of puzzlement drove me to try to explain Thanks have also been expressed to ally stay in the farm. ther invasive species. that the fish was well and truly undersized. Murrindindi Shire CEO Craig Lloyd and his “We can all feel the tranquility and beauty Many attendees felt that the proposal is poorly He couldn't grasp what I was trying to say. team, and Sam Hicks once again. of it, and everyone can purify themself a bit argued as an organic/permaculture enterprise, Perhaps a language barrier was to blame Andrew Embling says he is looking forfrom accumulated daily stress and feel more as the current owners have held the property for here? ward to doing it all again next year. calm. more than five years and have not farmed the The fact that the Cod would have struggled “It is from this experience that we form property productively, or indeed at all in that time. to be 30cm meant nothing to this gent alarmthe vision to share these goodness of Residents spoke about concerns they had that ingly. Flowerdale to more people. the document appears quite "green-washed". I am not saying he knew what he was ■ The 2020 Seymour Show has been can“‘Having a vision of bring in Chinese tourNumerous people also pointed out inconsisdoing was wrong, I actually believe he was celled, says Jason Ronald, President of the ists’ and ‘exclusively for Chinese tourists’ are tencies that they had observed in the document just proud of his angling success and wanting SeymourAgricultural and Pastoral Society. two total different concepts. with particular interest to images and maps. to show the world. “Last week the Seymour Agricultural & “We apologize that the wording our planThe proposal is potentially inherently controWe went our separate ways and I'm sure Pastoral Society Council met at Kings Park ner put it confuses the public a bit. versial as it proposes "accommodation specifihe enjoyed his sushi that night but I do wonfor the first time since the Annual Meeting in “Nevertheless, we open to anyone who cally for Chinese international tourists" and alder what needs to be done to educate our February,” Mr Ronald told The Local Paper. seek similar accommodation idea with us. leges to be a "unique initiative, the first venue of ethnic friends on proper etiquette with regards “The main item was to consider the 2020 “We do understand there will be objecits kind in greater Melbourne". to angling rules. Seymour Show on October 2 and 3. tions to our proposal, as people do have difThe overall sentiment expressed by attendI doubt he had a licence, probably doesn't “After an extensive discussion the Counferent pursuit of their lives due to different ees at the meeting was that they were not in know he should have one if he indeed does cil decided to cancel the Show for this year experiences, needs and ideologies. favour of any tourist village development in the require one likely being a visitor and theredue to the concerns about the Coronavirus “We will listen to objections that based on farming zoned part of the valley, but especially fore would be oblivious to the potential damand the difficulty of knowing if conditions will reasonable ground, and hope that finally the not one that is only marketed to a niche overage he causes. How do we arrest this probimprove for having crowds of people in the proposal will make more people happy,” Mr seas market. lem? one area by October. Huang said. Residents expressed desire to see any develOne undersize fish won't end the riparian “So far over 40 Shows have been can★ opment in Flowerdale remain transparently nonworld but if he tells his mates and they all celled throughout Victoria including theRoyal On social media, resident Sarah Hart rediscriminatory and inclusive. start doing the same well that's a different Melbourne Show. butted Mr Huang’s statement: They discussed the statement in the proposal story isn't it? “We naturally would like to have a Show “As a resident in Flowerdale, close to your regarding the facility being closed to the public, - Dave Palmer but the uncertainty and the withdrawal of volproperty, I’d like to raise my concerns. with what they say has been little intent exRedbank Rd. Seymour unteers and sponsors leaves us with no choice. “I have read your application and the propressed to engage with the local community or “The dates will be reserved and if cirposal for the accommodation plus commubenefit the local economy Stakeholders at the cumstances change dramatically thought will nal facility and I have to say that I don’t buy meeting expressed strong desire to remain an be given to a Gymkhana with entertainment,” it at all. inclusive community and to keep this proposal Mr Ronald said. “I understand that you’ve owned the said out of the "identity politics" arena cherry farm for five years which is proposed Resident Sarah Hart said on social media, to become a “regenerative farming” project in an open letter to property owner Zhi Huang: ■ Some 24 people played a par round on and& yet since your purchase of the prop“Add to this the fact that you plan to rip out all ■ Police are urging people to be vigilant as Saturday with Jonathon Fisher (16) playing erty, you’ve done nothing to contribute to the native eucalypts on the property and plant a the current increase in online activity and a great round with +3 to win. Second on CB process of regeneration in any way, on that ‘weed’ around the perimeter which will infilsocialising brings increased risk to the safety was Phil Armstrong (24) with +2 from third property. trate all properties with the deposition of seeds of children. Gary Pollard (13). Fourth with +1 was Brian “There is zero evidence that you take any proves that you have no regard for the enorDetectives from the Victorian Joint Anti Simmons (12) from fifth Steve Rumney (29) interest on that land to improve the soil or mous amount of work that has been done by Child Exploitation Team (JACET), which is with square. Brian Simmons was NTP on contribute to the microbiome of our farmresidents to build and support the diverse comprised of both Victoria Police and AFP the 18th and Mark Mullaly won the Club land in any way. microbiome necessary to sustain our wildlife, investigators, have seen a marked increase Award on CB from Kevin Coghlan and Rob “The fact that your dying cherry orchard both flora and fauna. in the sharing of child exploitation material O’Halloran. Gary Pollard and Jonathon which is allegedly filled with canker is left to “I do not support your exclusive, racist devia Peer 2 Peer (P2P) sites. Fisher won their first round matches in the rot rings massive alarm bells for me,” Ms velopment at all and will oppose it on every www.accce.gov.au Club Knockout. - Alan Pell Hart said. level,” Ms Hart said.
Letter to the Editor Size does matter
Land owner has his say
Local Briefs Wood auction
Seymour Show off
Local Sport Yea Golf Club
Online safety care
Page 8 - Wednesday, July 1, 2020
Virus Updates Pandemic alters travel patterns
■ The Satte Government says it is making it easier for people and goods to get around Melbourne with better technology, more specialist staff and stronger enforcement of clearways in response to the Coronavirus pandemic. Ben Carroll, Minister for Roads and Road Safety, this week unveiled a $340 million package of measures to make it easier for people and freight to get around on our roads. The Coronavirus pandemic has dramatically altered the way Melburnians move around the city with more people now expected to use cars to get around. The number of people making trips on Melbourne’s roads each day is increasing, with road traffic now only 17 per cent below normal levels, while passenger numbers on public transport are 71 per cent less than the same time last year. To keep Melburnians moving during this time, the Government is ramping up direct traffic interventions by tasking more response crews and traffic engineers with tackling congestion hotspots, incidents and blockages on the network. Three key traffic hotspots in the western, eastern and south eastern suburbs of Melbourne will also be blanketed with the technology and resources to help keep traffic moving, reduce delays and provide drivers with better traffic information. Almost 700 CCTV cameras will be installed to identify bottlenecks as soon as they start and more than 200 wireless travel time sensors and 40 new visual message boards will put live traffic data in the hands of our traffic management centre and drivers. Six extra incident response crews and dozens more specialist traffic engineers will be hired to keep our roads moving around the clock – creating jobs and reducing delays from unexpected events. The timing of hundreds of traffic lights – along with traffic patterns and crash data – will be analysed and re-sequenced to maximise traffic flow along some of the busiest routes in the targeted areas. Clearways across inner-Melbourne will also be strongly enforced with new penalties for those that park illegally and all arterial road clearways within 20 kilometres of the CBD will be strengthened to tow-away zone status. Road occupation charges to charge developers for blocking precious lanes on arterial roads during building works will recommence from July 20, after they were suspended in response to the Coronavirus outbreak. “This is a comprehensive plan to create more space on Melbourne’s roads and keep people and goods moving as we continue to respond to the coronavirus pandemic. For more information visit vicroads.vic.gov.au,” Mr Carroll said. “The way we travel around Melbourne has been massively impacted by the coronavirus pandemic – our plan will mean people spend less time stuck in traffic and more time at home with their families, said Ben Carroll, Minister for Roads and Road Safety. “We’re building more roads and adding lanes through our unprecedented Big Build – now we want to ensure our entire road system works as efficiently as possible as we continue to deal with coronavirus.”
Temperature checks ■ Travellers and accommodation operators will benefit from on-site temperature testing over the school holidays, with infrared thermometers being distributed across the state to help keep Victorians safe. About 4800 thermometers are on their way to holiday locations as part of the Victorian Government’s efforts to slow the spread of coronavirus. In addition, coronavirus testing clinics will be established at popular destinations on the Great Ocean Road and in the Alps: Lorne, Apollo Bay, Falls Creek, Mount Hotham and Mount Buller. Accommodation providers with communal facilities will be given priority access.
www.LocalMedia.com.au
Special Report
Coronavirus emergency ■ Some 75 new Coronavirus cases were reported across Victoria on Monday (June 29). The total number of Coronavirus (COVID19) cases in Victoria was 2099. The overall total increased by 71, with four cases reclassified. Within Victoria, 14 new cases are linked to outbreaks, 37 new cases have been identified through routine testing, 23 cases are under investigation and one case was detected in a returned traveller in hotel quarantine. There have been no new deaths reported. To date, 20 people have died from Coronavirus in Victoria. There have been 271 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Victoria that have been acquired through unknown transmission. There are currently 288 active cases in Victoria. Currently, nine people with coronavirus infection are in hospital, including one patient in intensive care. 1789 people have recovered from the virus. Of the total 2099 cases, there have been 1772 in metropolitan Melbourne and 247 in regional Victoria. The total number of cases includes 1104 men and 993 women. More than 792,000 tests have been processed to date. “Of today’s new cases linked to outbreaks, one case is linked to the North Melbourne family outbreak - bringing the total in this outbreak to 22,” said Monday’s statement by the Department. “Three new cases are linked to the Brimbank family outbreak – bringing the total number of cases in this outbreak to nine. “A link has been established between these outbreaks. Three new case are linked to the Stamford Plaza Hotel, taking that outbreak total to 23 and three new cases are linked to a Truganina family outbreak, taking that total to five. “One new case is a close contact linked to the Wollert outbreak – bringing the total number of cases in this outbreak to 10. Three new cases are linked to a new family outbreak in Patterson Lakes and Lysterfield – bringing the total number of cases to four. “Cases are linked to a number of new schools including Queen of Peace Parish Primary School in Altona Meadows, Aitken Hill Primary in Craigieburn, Maribyrnong College, Footscray High School, Port Phillip Specialist School and Al-Taqwa College, Truganina. “All schools will undergo a deep clean of affected classroom and common areas, and close contacts will be required to quarantine. “Guardian Childcare and Education in Abbotsford has closed for cleaning until Wednesday following a positive case in a child. Cleaning and contact tracing are under way. “Other key cases include a healthcare worker at The Melbourne Clinic in Richmond. Close contacts among patients and staff have been identified and contacted, and the facility will be cleaned and the outbreak squad is visiting today. “A staff member at the Red Cross processing facility Lifeblood has tested positive. Contact tracing is under way and cleaning has been undertaken. “This is the 13th consecutive day of doubledigit case growth in Victoria, with a continuing and concerning number of new cases associated with transmission in households and families.” The Victorian Government has launched a targeted blitz across 10 priority suburbs with a team of 800 testers to zero in on community transmission with a fleet of mobile vans. Over the coming week, residents of these suburbs will receive free testing – with or without symptoms. On the advice of the Chief Health Officer, priority suburbs include Keilor Downs, Broadmeadows, Maidstone, Albanvale, Sunshine West, Hallam, Brunswick West, Fawkner, Reservoir and Pakenham, with Keilor Downs and Broadmeadows identified as the current focus of testing. “It remains critical to practice good hygiene in and outside the home – wash your hands regularly, cough and sneeze into a tissue or your elbow and try to avoid touching
Cases by local government area
■ Latest Coronavirus figures, identified by local government areas, were released on Monday (June 29). Here is a selection in The Local Paper group area: ■ Hume, 139 (confirmed cases ever, 54 active cases ■ Brimbank, 115, 32 ■ Melbourne, 105, 11 ■ Stonnington, 101, 4 ■ Moreland, 99, 26 ■ Banyule, 96, 1 ■ Boroondara, 74, 0 ■ Moonee Valley, 69, 29 ■ Whittlesea, 58, 16 ■ Darebin, 57, 8 ■ Monash, 53, 0 ■ Yarra, 41, 9 ■ Manningham, 33, 0 ■ Maribyrnong, 31, 9 ■ Nillumbik, 27, 1 ■ Yarra Ranges, 26, 1 ■ Whitehorse, 25, 0 ■ Knox, 23, 6 ■ Hobsons Bay, 22, 2 ■ Maroondah, 16, 0 ■ Greater Shepparton, 14, 0 ■ Mitchell, 12, 2 ■ Macedon Ranges, 9, 0 ■ Benalla, 3, 0 ■ Mansfield, 3, 0 ■ Moorabool, 3, 0 ■ Murrindindi, 2, 0 ■ Strathbogie, 2, 0 ■ State Total, 2099, 288
COVID-19 tests
■ Testing for COVID-19 can give some much-needed information to help understand and manage this viral infection on an individual, local, national and global level. “The most reliable way to test someone for a current COVID-19 infection is with what we call a PCR test, which is the test being administered at the COVID-19 clinics around the country right now,” says Dr Jill Thistlethwaite, medical adviser at NPS MedicineWise and GP. “A PCR test can detect the virus which causes COVID-19 if it’s present on a swab, usually taken from the back of your nose and throat.” Medical tests are rarely 100 per cent accurate, Dr Thistlewaite said. your face,” Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Professor Brett Sutton said. “Stay 1.5 metres away from anyone you don’t live with and avoid crowds, especially indoors. If you can keep working from home – you must keep working from home. “We have made some great progress in slowing the spread of coronavirus, but we are still seeing new cases in the community. “We have launched a targeted testing blitz across 10 priority suburbs and encourage locals in these areas – especially if you have symptoms – to come forward for testing and help us find and contain the virus. “The Victorian Government has also announced a tightening of the rules and has reduced the number of visitors you can have in your home to five. Outside of the home, people can now gather in groups of up to 10 only. “These moves are important to keeping our community safe and to ensure COVID-19 does not get away from us. We do not want Victoria to suffer like many major cities around the world who have been devastated by the severe impacts of COVID-19. “Don’t take this disease lightly. if you feel unwell with any symptoms of coronavirus, however mild, you should stay home and get tested. “If you have any fever, chills, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose, and loss of sense of smell or taste - stay home, don’t go in to work and don’t visit friends and family. Get tested and stay at home until you get the result,” Prof. Sutton said.
Local Briefs NAIDOC Week
■ Arts Centre Melbourne will be celebrating Victorian NAIDOC Week with a range of digital content being released from July 5-12 as part of its Together With You initiative. This VicNAIDOC offering includes archival performances of Jack Charles v The Crown, A Not So Traditional Story and an Vic NAIDOC Concert - AlwaysWas, Always Will Be - from Hamer Hall in partnership with Aboriginal Victoria, 3KND, VACCHO and Victoria Together. Other features include recordings from Tell It Like It Is - First Nations Hip Hop Forum hosted by the Australian Music Vault, Australian Music Vault Long Play Series interviews with Dr Lou Bennett from Tiddas and legendary musician Archie Roach; as well as a range of stories which showcase the cultural impact of the First Nations community across the arts.
Youth Council
■ Mitchell Shire Youth Services is looking for young community leaders across Seymour, Pyalong, Tooborac, Puckapunyal and the surrounding areas to take part in 202021 Mitchell Youth Council. Participating in the program will develop your leadership skills and help make a difference in the community. The Youth Council has been influential across projects big and small and was vital in securing the new Mental Health Hub in Wallan. The Youth Council is an advisory committee that has played a pivotal role in shaping the future for young people in our region. If you are 12-24 years of age and live, work or study in the northern towns of Mitchell Shire, you can apply now. Mitchell Youth Council is divided into three wards; North, Central and South. Three members of Youth Council represent the North Ward, six in the Central Ward and three in the South Ward, making a total of 12. At the moment the South and Central wards positions are occupied, so officials are looking for three new members to represent the North. The Youth Council works towards: ■ Helping Council understand issues from the perspective of young people ■ Developing local initiatives and programs for young people ■ Advocating on matters that affect young people
Forests injunction ■ “Victoria's government logging agency, VicForests, has again had a legal injunction halt its operations, after the Supreme Court heard allegations it had breached logging regulations in 14 coupes in the Central Highlands,” reports The Age. “This new court action places further pressure on the agency, which is now facing five court challenges from crowdfunded community environmental groups. “Last month it lost a landmark court case when the Federal Court found it had unlawfully logged areas of critically endangered possum habitat. “At least 65 Victorian logging coupes are currently subject to legal challenges, the Supreme Court heard,” reported journalist Miki Perkins.
Y’bat mini golf ■ Try a round of Goanna Golf mini golf at Yarrambat Park Golf Course. To ensure the health and safety of guests, numbers for each session are strictly limited, so to ensure your spot make a booking. The club is offering 25 per cent off rounds until uly 12 – use the promo code #Nillumbik when booking. Terms and conditions apply.
Dindi Sessions ■ Original music from talented young artists is being featured on the Murrindindi Youth Facebook page. Singer and songwriter Molly Maddox will perform an original song called Paraspychology this Saturday (July 4). This program is supported by Creative Victoria and the Government's FReeZA.
www.LocalMedia.com.au
Ticks & Crosses
✖ ✔
Junior footballers are going to miss their sport in 2020. AFL Goulburn Murray has confirmed that the Seymour District Junior Football Netball League season has been cancelled for 2020. Alexandra Football Football-Netball Club is continuing with its aluminium can recycling program. People are dropping them in to the red lid bins located at the umpires’ rooms at the football club rooms. A tick to Ray Steyger (phone) 5772 2627 who organises the collection of big amounts. Twelve individual Flowerdale residents indicated they would be will ing to speak to a Murrindindi Council community consultation on the issues they have with the development at Moores Rd, if given the opportunity. Most attendees expressed the intent to oppose the development in writing, and stated they feared this was only the first stage of further development on the site in future, once the first stage is approved.
✖
✖
Opponents to the Flowerdale tourism development say there are unlikly to be any local jobs created. “[There are] no employment opportunities for Flowerdale unless you speak Mandarin,” say the locals.
● Tania Maxwell MLC Northern Victorian MLC Tania Maxwell says that all CFA volun teers should wear a black armband with their uniforms as the new Fire Rescue Victoria fire service comes into effect from today (July 1). Ms Maxwell called on the incoming temporary CFA Chief Executive, Catherine Greaves, to publicly release the draft agreement and commit to not signing the document until volunteers were given the opportunity to scrutinise the agreement and provide feedback. Ms Maxwell said she joined with her fellow CFA volunteers across Victoria in being disheartened and concerned by the lack of consultation, evidenced by the recent resignation of CFA Chief Executive, Steve Warrington. “Volunteers feel let down and unappreciated by this entire process and it is heartbreaking,” said Ms Maxwell. “For many of them, this may be the last straw. Unfortunately, I fear the death of the volunteer fire service.” A tick to the Flowerdale Walking Group. They are in recess for two weeks of the school holidays. The next walking group will be Thursday, July 16. If you would like to join, please meet at the Hazeldene store at 10am. Yarra Valley’s Balgownie Estate was damaged by fire last Thursday (June 25). Ray’s restaurant, kitchen and cellar door were damaged at the Yarra Glen premises. The Estate’s accommodation continues to trade. McDonalds Mill Park restaurant was temporarily closed last week after one of its staff was tested positive for Coronavirus. A student from St Monica’s College, Epping, was counted within the ‘Wollert outbreak’. She worked at the fast food outlet while infectious. The Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service is offering free fun activity packs that can be ordered through the Click & Collect service or downloaded online.
✔
✖
✔ ✖
✖
✔
Send your contribution to: editor@LocalPaper.com.au Contributions will be published at the sole discretion of the Editor.
Wednesday, July 1, 2020 - Page 9
Local News
Kinglake, Alex pull out of 2020 footy ■ Kinglake and Alexandra have withdrawn from any participation in a 2020 season which might be run by AFL Outer East. “Given the current circumstances in Victoria, the Kinglake Football Netball Club can no longer guarantee the health and safety of its players, volunteers and supporters,” said the Kinglake club in a statement late last week. “This coupled with the financial impact to the club and the extra workload required by a dwindling volunteer base, with some volunteers understandably indicating they would prefer to stay away through this period, is what has led us to make this tough decision. “As restrictions allow, we intend to hold Thursday night dinners and certain functions to give our players, volunteers, members and the wider community an outlet to stick together through this difficult period. “We want to thank our playing groups for the effort they have all put in through the pre-season and in recent weeks since returning to training, we especially want to thank our senior football coach Andrew Fairchild and our senior netball coach Latoya Wards for their continued hard work, both have endured heightened stress levels through this period and we all appreciate their efforts in doing what’s best for our club,” the Kinglake Football Netball Club announcement said. ★ At Alexandra, Club President Ray Steyger made a similar announcement on Monday: “With the Senior competition, the Club has advised the AFL Outer East that we have opted out for the 2020 season and will not be fielding any football or netball teams. “Other Clubs have advised the League that they have made the same decision with the League set to make an announcement next week as to the 2020 season. “The Club will continue to give players and coaches for both Juniors and Seniors the opportunity to train within the current restrictions. “If and when restrictions ease sufficiently to allow safe and practical use of our rooms, the Club will look to restart social activities. “We hope to organise a Patrons Day function, albeit late in the year, again dependant on restrictions allowing this type of event,” Mr Steyger said. “A number of patrons and sponsors have paid their annual fees which is much needed revenue that will assist the Club to get through these difficult and unprecedented times. “We still have incoming accounts for utilities, equipment and operating costs so this income is extremely important. “If you would like to pay you’re 2020 patron membership or sponsorship fees, or part thereof, the Club will be extremely grateful,” Mr Steyger said. “We will now look forward to the 2021 season and push towards retaining all current players and building on our teams for a rejuvenated 2021 year of the Rebels ★ The Kinglake club’s statement said : “ We have a great group of coaches and players in both football and netball and we can all look forward to an exciting 2021 season. “Over the past few months, we have been in constant communication with the AFLOE league regarding an effort to return to football and netball competition. “It has been a gruelling process of uncertainty that has peaked over the past week. “Despite return to play protocols being released on Wednesday night that indicated the season was back on, our executives in consultation with our playing group have made the difficult decision to withdraw all teams from the AFLOE Div 2 competition for season 2020. “Making an effort to return to football and netball has been our priority through this period and with cases dropping and restrictions easing we believed it was a realistic possibility. “We’d also like to thank Aaron Bailey (AFLOE=) and his team at the league for the hard work they’ve put in through this period.
Local Briefs Killingworth plan
■ James and Beverley Veale of Glenburn are the owners of property at 34 Killingworth Rd, Yea, wpon which they wish to build a dwellings and outbuildings. A planning permit application has been submitted to Murrindindi Shire Council.
Allowance relief ■ The Australian Government is extending the availability of the Farm Household Allowance relief payment for three months, providing $2.1 million to eligible farmers and their families. Agriculture Minister David Littleproud said the payments would support farmers who require some more breathing space to begin to recover or make difficult decisions about their future. “Farmers and their partners will automatically receive $13,000 a couple or $7500 a single person, roughly equivalent to six months of the standard FHA payment, if they exhaust their FHA payments between July 1and September 30.”
Plan for wild dogs
● Ray Steyger, Alexandra President “Their communication with the clubs has been fantastic and their efforts gave us every chance to take the field/ court this season, unfortunately the past week didn’t fall the way we were hoping. “To all our sponsors and members, we can’t thank you enough for your continued support, this is a difficult period on many levels for our club and we understand many of you are dealing with your own difficulties. “We will endeavour to ensure our club and its participants look to support you all and as we plan for the 2021 season, we hope these relationships can continue. “When restrictions allow us, we will be making every effort to get all sponsors to the club so we can all personally thank you for your support. “Despite this unrest we will now look to use the coming months to benefit our 2021 season.”
Stop Press
■ As The Local Paper was going to press on Monday night (June 29), Yea Football Netball Club announced that it would not field senior teams in 2020. The Club said it discovered a significant number of our competing clubs were also withdrawing from the 2020 season.
Works underway at Rebel Park
■ Development of Rebel Park has proceeded during the Coronavirus pandemic, says Alexandra Football Netball Club President Ray Steyger. “Stage 1 and stage 2 have been completed with the construction of two new netball courts, lighting, infrastructure and building with change rooms, toilets, showers, storage and office,” Mr Steyger said. “Stage 3 will see the construction of a new multipurpose building with stage 4 providing an upgrade of power to the reserve and new lights to the oval. “The tender process was advertised in May with a total of six companies submitting tenders for stage 3, the Project Control Group responsible for delivering the project impressed at the number and strength of the six companies. “At present, the tenders are being assessed by an independent panel and we anticipate completing the process and confirming the successful tender company in coming weeks.” Other Clubs have advised the League that they have made the same decision. The League set to make an announcement next week as to the 2020 season.
■ The new 10-year National Wild Dog Action Plan takes effect from today (Wed., July 10. The plan is endorsed by producers, peak farming bodies, the Australian Government, state governments and research and development corporations. It ensures wild dog control measures are humane, evidence-based and best practice.
Thornton permit ■ Tanglewood Musical Entertainment is applying for a five-year permit to run an annual music festival on private land at 969 Maroondah Hwy, Thornton. The festival has taken place from 2015-19. The festival is described as a “boutique” event, with music, arts, workshops and arts.
Firewood help
■ Those who use firewood as their only source of heating in winter, and Victorians on low incomes may be eligible for financial assistance to help with firewood costs. For more information or to apply for the Utility Relief Grant Scheme (non-mains), contact the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services on 1800 658 521
F’dale House closes
■ Flowerdale Community House is closed for two weeks and will be back on Tuesday, July 14.
YFNC facilities pride
■ Yea Football Netball Club has posted short video on social media to show the new home team toilet and showers. This, the away rooms and the disabled toilet in the main pavilion were part of a $250,000 redevelopment just completed.
$97.3 mil. budget
■ Mitchell Shire Council’s 2020-21 budget is highlighted by $1.93 million for Wallan’s Greenhill Reserve and Wellington Street Precinct, a $2.48 million rejuvenation on Sydney St, Kilmore, and an allocation of $2.37 million for a permanent Seymour Resource Recovery Centre. Mitchell Council will also increase funding to its sealed roads program, continue to improve road and footpath linkages and keep the doors open to outdoor pools for free as part of the $97.32 million 2020-21 budget. "This is truly a milestone budget for Council. We’re proud of the financially responsible legacy we’ve built,” Mayor Cr David Lowe said.
Your news stories
■ The Local Paper wants to hear your news stories. Tell us about you group. editor@LocalPaper.com.au
Page 10 - Wednesday, July 1, 2020
www.LocalMedia.com.au
Ash OnWednesday Contact Us
So long, Channel 31
Phone: 1800 231 311 Reg. Office: 30 Glen Gully Rd, Eltham, Vic 3095 (same address for 25 years) Mail: PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095 Web: w w w.L ocalMedia. c om.au .LocalMedia. ocalMedia.c E-Mail: Editor@LocalMediacom.au
At Terangaville
incorporating Murrindindi Citizen, The New Free Press and The Phoenix Vol. 5. No No.. 196 Wednesda y, July 1, 20 20 ednesday 2020 Published W ednesda y s Wednesda A ddr es s: 74 High S t, Y ea, V ic 3 71 7 ddres ess: St, Yea, Vic Local Phone: 5797 2656 ocalP aper Web: ww w.L .LocalP aper..c om.au E-Mail: Edit or@L ocalP aper ditor@L or@LocalP ocalPaper aper..com.au L ocal P os t: PO Bo x 14, Y ea, V ic 3 71 7 Po Box Yea, 37
Melbourne
Observer
Our Team Editor: Ash Long Features Editor: Peter Mac Columnis ts: L en Bak e rr,, Ma tt Bis settolumnists: Bake Matt BissettJohnson, Da v d Ellis, R ob F oenander Dav Rob Foenander oenander,, Mike McColl Jones, Peter Kemp, Aaron Rourke, John Rozentals, Jim Sherlock, an, Cheryl T hr eadgold, K evin Ted Ry Ryan, Thr hreadgold, Ke Tr ask, G a vin W ood Ga Wood Honorary Reviewers: Juliet Charles, Martin Curtis, Sherryn Danaher e tte er Danaher,, P Pe Gr een, L yn Hurs t, K athryn K eeble , Beth Green, Lyn Hurst, Ka Keeble Klein, Ai Diem Le, Deborah Marinaro, David McLean, Graeme McCoubrie, Maggie Morrison, Jill Page Elizabeth Semmel Distribution (Observer): Sam Fiorini, All Day Distribution Logistics: John Parry (Whittlesea) Credit Manager: Michael Conway OAM, Fas ction Debt R ov ery astt A Action Ree cco ery,, 040 04022 142 866
Distribution The L ocal P aper: A vailable a e than Local Paper: att mor more 70 outlets in these municipalities: Murrindindi, Mansfield Mitchell, Nillumbik, Whittlesea, Y arr a Ranges. Yarr Melbourne Observ er: A vailable a t Observer: hundreds of Victorian newsagencies, including the Melbourne metropolitan area, Mornington Peninsula, Geelong, Bellarine Peninsula, Surf Coast, and Victorian regional centres.
Deadlines Trades Advertising Advertising:: 5pm Fridays Display Advertising Advertising:: 6pm Mondays News News:: 10am Mondays Sports News News:: 10am Mondays Paid Classified Ads Ads:: 6pm Mondays E-Mail or@L ocalP aper aper..com.au, E-Mail:: edit editor@L or@LocalP ocalPaper edit or@MelbourneObserv e rr..com.au editor@MelbourneObserv
● The late Bruce Mansfield ‘on location’ for the Mansfield’s Melbourne TV program that aired on community television in the 1990s. ■ Community television station Channel 31 was due to stop transmission at ■ It’s the start of a 11.59pm last night new financial year (Tues.) as The Local July 1. Our Local PaPaper and Melbourne per Regional Edition print edition returns to Observer went to its normal size - 92 press. pages - after three The station was months of COVID-19 hoping for another lastOur Mitchell Shire minute licence reEdition and Lilydale prieve from Commuand Yarra Valley Exnications Minister press editions return. Paul Fletcher, but that Our Melbourne did not look likely. Observer newspaper Long Shots was returns to the Producer of a number newsagents’ shelves of shows that aired on this week after a threeChannel 31: the month hiatus. nightly Mansfield’s The Local Paper Melbourne with the Northern Edition and late Bruce Mansfield, Eastern Edition conwith Ash Long, Editor Mansfield’s Memotinue to grow. Thanks Previous winner, Victoria’s best local r eporter ries, and Night Owl to everyone for the Theatre. support. Now in his 51st year of local newspapers. Mansfield was And today sees the “For the cause that lacks assistance, then 3AW’s night-time launch of our new co-host with Philip ‘Gainst the wrongs that need resistance North-West Edition Brady. Our company through Brimbank, For the future in the distance, also produced TV Hobsons Bay, Hume, And the good that we can do” Maribyrnong. shows for Optus, and Phone: 1800 231 311 Moonee Valley and TV stations in Sydney, Personal Web: www.Long.c om.au Moreland. Brisbane and Adelaide.
Long Shots
Press on
Cyclists’ Rest Wine Shop in Yea
Online
■ On Wednesday of last week Captain G. A. Fairbairn's homestead, Terangaville,was the scene of a brilliant function, the occasion being the birthday celebration of Mr Paul Jaques. A pleasant evening was held in the men's hall, which was tastefully decorated with bush vegetation in the old bush style, The veteran received a gift of cardigan jacket and walking stick from the men working on the new homestead. Captain Fairbairn made the presentation, and in a happy little speech congratulated Mr. Jaques on his having attained his 81st birthday. Mr Jaques also received a handsome pipe with tobacco, from Mrs G. A. Fairbairn, and the toast of the guest of the evening was enthusiastically drank. Mr Jaques suitably responded, thanking his friends and workmates for their generous tribute,. A musical programme by the talented Terangaville orchestra (conducted by G. Dynon) then followed, The musicians were; R, Taylor (violin), T. Dawe (violin), W. Greenwood (violin), V. Dann (baritone), Dunstan (piano), D. Robertson (side drum), etc. Songs were rendered by G. Gilmour (Mother MoCree), V. Dunn (Smiles), S. Dunstan, late.of the Tivoli theatre (Poor Old Man), J. Dynon (When You Gang 'awe, Jimmie), W. Youins (While London Sleeps), and .W. Greenwood (I Dreamed a Dream). T. Richardson also sang the favorite camp song Mulligan's Band, accompanied by the orchestra. The rendering of this song was greatly appreciated by the company, and a step dance was given, with lightning touch by D. Robertson, Mr Jaques also filled his niche in the programme by reciting The Country Fair, our octogenarian friend in this ong recitation showing that his memory and elocutionary powers had in no wise diminished in spite of his advanced age, his impersonations of charactors at an English fair greatly delighted the assemblage, and at the conclusion he was vigorously applauded. An adjournment was made for supper at 9,30 p.m,, after which the floor was cleared for dancing, when numerous couples took posesseion of the floor, An outstanding feature of the dancing was a display by G. Gilmour of his famous 'kangaroo hop." While the festivities were in full swing numerous telephone messages of cogratulation were received from friends in different parts of the State. A most enjoyable even.ing terminated at 11.30 p.m.
Little fellow hurt ■ A little fellow named Willie Dignam, aged 10 years, fractured his left elbow whilst playing in the sohool ground on Wednesday afternoon of last week. He was carrying anotherj little fellow on his back, and slipped and fell. Dr Colin Campbell attended to the little fellow
www.L ocalPaper. com.au www.MelbourneObserv er. com.au You can rread ead our paper fr ee on the free internet. Our online news service is egularly or our upda updatted rregularly egularly.. Details ffor advertisers - and how to contact them are also available at our website. F ac ebook: L ocal P aper acebook: Paper aper,, Melbourne Observer Group
Sawmill accident
Independently Owned and Operated Printed under contract by Streamline PressPty Ltd, 155 Johns t, Fitzr oy, ffor or the publisher ocal Johnstton S St, Fitzro publisher,, L Local Media Pty Ltd. ABN 67 096 680 063, of the registered office, 30 Glen Gully Rd, Eltham, Vic 3095. Responsibility for election and referendum comment is accepted by Ash Long. Copyright © 2019, Local Media Pty Ltd. ACN 096 680 063.
We acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which we live and work.
Editor Ash Long first started newspaper work in 1969. He began writing for local newspapers in 1973. Over those 47 years he has kept extensive diaries and local photo files.
From Our Files - 100 Years Ago July 1920
The Local Paper
inc orpor a ting Melbourne A dv ertiser orpora dvertiser ertiser,, Melbourne Seniors News, Melbourne Trader and Victorian Rural News Vol. 5 2. No . 17 86 52. 1786 Wednesda y, July 1, 20 20 ednesday 2020 Published W ednesda ys ednesday Phone: 9439 9927 e rr..com.au Web: ww w.MelbourneObserv .MelbourneObserve E-Mail: Edit or@MelbourneObserv e rr.. ditor@MelbourneObserv or@MelbourneObserve com.au Post: PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095
Editor’s Diary
● Yea once had a licensed wine shop which commenced in 1904 in Melbourne Road and was run by David and Isabella Walker. This Wine Shop was called ‘The Cyclists Rest Wine Shop’ and had a bar set up in one of the front rooms of the house. Photo: Alan Thorley, Yea and District Historical Pages.
■ A man named George Gale, a benchman employed at Edwards' sawmills (late Kidd's),- Yarck, met with a very nasty accident on Saturday morning, just prior to finishing his. week's work, He had just placed his last log on the bench when his hand slipped and came in contact with the circular saw, which inflicted a nasty cut across the fingers of his right hand. He was brought into Yea in Mr McCormack's motor car. Dr. Colin Campbell, who attended to the injured man, found it necessary to amputate the top of the first finger, but entertains hopes of saving the others
www.LocalMedia.com.au
Your Stars with Kerry Kulkens ARIES: (March 21-April 20) Lucky Colour: Silver Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 8.9.4.5 Lotto Numbers: 8.2.4.16.28.33. Try to keep cool and your plans will work much better and benefits are there to be seen very soon. Things are not straight forward ad it seems from afar check all the small print before signing anything. TAURUS: (April 21- May 20) Lucky Colour: Lemon Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 6.9.1.2 Lotto Numbers: 1,17,23,34,44.45. You could be hankering to the good old days but not remembering that the sun was not always shinning. Face facts and try to improve your present situation with common sense and some hard work. GEMINI: (May 21- June 21) Lucky Colour: White Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 7.9.1.4. Lotto Numbers: 1,16,23,34,36,22, Some very good vibes in your chart for leisure and enjoyment now. Trusting people could be very wrong if you do not know them well enough- make sure you check all financial transactions. CANCER: (June 22- July 22) Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 7,8,9,3, Lotto Numbers: 1,16,23,34,41,22, You should know yourself well enough to assess the possibilities of you being wrong sometimes is as great as with others so give up that superior air and admit that you could be wrong this time. LEO: (July 23-August 22) Lucky Colour: Cream Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 6,8,4,5, Lotto Numbers: 1,17,23,36,42,11, Not a good time to get involved in other people's problems. People close to you should show more affection and give you a good feeling and plans for some happy times ahead. VIRGO: (August 23- September 23) Lucky Colour: Mauve Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 7,9,3,4, Lotto Numbers: 1,16,23,34,41,22, Busy social period in which some surprise invitations could dazzle you. Travel to distant places could be discussed but do not make plans that cannot be changed.
Wednesday, July 1, 2020 - Page 11
Local News
‘Love me Tender’ ■ Murrindindi Shire Council, together with Tender Right, is holding an online workshop on Monday (July 6) to assist businesses interested in tendering for Council services and projects. Council routinely puts out tenders throughout the year, seeking supplier bids for a range of different works and services, including financial, construction and trades, planning, consulting and engineering. Council's Mayor, Cr Leigh Dunscombe, said the Tender Right Workshop is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to learn about the local government tender process and how they can put their best foot forward when it comes to submitting a tender bid for a particular project or service. “It's helpful to understand the tender process from endto-end because you only have one chance to submit your bid - and you need to make it count. The workshop will help you to determine whether a particular tender is a good fit for your business, by working through
● Cr Leigh Dunscombe, Murrindindi Mayor pre-qualification criteria. “It will also help businesses understand local government tender documents and how to use our e-tendering portal,” Cr Dunscombe said. “An important part of the bid process involves providing examples of past work, to prove that your business has a successful history of delivering certain projects or services. “During the workshop,
you'll learn how to write a tender bid that not only highlights your skills and experience, but also uses tangible examples to demonstrate your strengths and what might set your bid apart from others. “Finally, the workshop will provide a good overview about how tenders are evaluated and what government assessors are looking for in a bid. “We want businesses to get the most out of this workshop, so please come prepared with any questions you'd like answered. “While the facilitator won't be able to answer any questions about specific tenders, they will assist with any general questions you may have about the tender process itself.” Cr Dunscombe said. The workshop will be held online via Zoom. To register for the workshop, please visit the Council website at murrindindi.vic.gov.au/ tenderworkshop or give a call on 5772 0333. Please register for one of the following two sessions available: 12 Noon 1pm or 5.30 - 6.30 pm.
Wire rope barriers flawed
LIBRA: (September 24- October 23) Lucky Colour: Yellow Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 7,9,3,5, Lotto Numbers: 3,6,23,31,22,28, This is a period of expansion so take it easy as this includes your waistline also. In business, things should work out well and some could be spot on with their hunches. SCORPIO: (October 24- November 22) Lucky Colour: Orange Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 6,9,3,4, Lotto Numbers: 1,16,23,27,34,41, You could be interested in improving your appearance or your health. Keep away from irritating people and try to keep a positive attitude and you will sail through this period. SAGITTARIUS: (November 23- December20) Lucky Colour: Red Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 6,8,3,4, Lotto Numbers: 1,15,23,35,41,22, Some readjustments possible in relationship matters and could have some affect on your career matters as well. People could be in and out of your place a lot so be prepared. CAPRICORN: (December 21- January 19) Lucky Colour: Silver Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 4,6,2,3, Lotto Numbers: 1,14,23,27,34,38, Things should work out surprisingly well even if it looks bad in the beginning. Trust your own judgement when it comes to people you know well and who have helped you in the past. AQUARIUS: (January 20- February 19) Lucky Colour: Violet Lucky Day: Thursday. Racing Numbers: 5,7,3,4, Lotto Numbers: 1,16,23,26,34,39, To keep close ones happy, try to give some of your time for matters at home. Career matters are in a flexible state and you should be able to pick and choose your experiences. PISCES: (February 20- March 20) Lucky Colour: Red Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 7.8.9.3. Lotto Numbers: 1,14,23,34,45,22, Take note of some helpful advice given and do not rush into loving or changing things in a hurry. The changes are coming but could take some time before you know how. KERRY KULKENS PS YCHIC LINE 1300 246 244 VISIT KERRY KULKENS MAGIC SHOP AT 1 693 BUR W OOD HW Y BELGRA V E PH/FA X ( 03 ) 9754 458 7 W W W. K E R R YK U L K E N S . C O M . A U Like us on facebook
Murrindindi Matters Items provided by Murrindindi Shire Council. The Local Paper makes no charge for this space.
Running for this year’s elections?
■ Murrindindi Shire Council, together with the Victorian Local Governance Association, is holding an online Candidate Information Workshop from 5.30pm - 7.30 pm on Friday, July 17. Purpose of the session is to prepare community members with the skills, knowledge and connections required to be successful leaders in the community. Murrindindi Council's CEO Craig Lloyd said community members interested in running as a candidate in the 2020 Local Government election in October should attend the Workshop. “The Workshop is designed to educate community members about the role of Council and how Council elections work,” Mr Lloyd said. “Together with VLGA, we want to provide quality information and resources to potential candidates about local government, including the roles and responsibilities of councillors and current issues facing local government. “The Workshop will also assist candidates with the business of getting elected to local government, including offering advice on how to connect with the community and discussing key skills and campaign techniques that will help you on your journey from community member to candidate - and possibly even to councillor. “Ultimately, we hope that this Workshop can both encourage and attract high quality candidates who are in tune with community needs to stand for the important role of councillor. “If you feel you have a contribution to make to our Shire, please attend this workshop to learn more,” Mr Lloyd said. ■ For more information and to register for the workshop, please visit the VLGA website at www.vlga.org.au/events
Applications open
● Wire rope barriers on the Melba Hwy, south of Yea. Photo: Ash Long “They have not addressed the urgent need ■ Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish says she is exasperated by the Victorian Labor for highway improvements including overtakGovernment's deeply flawed rollout of wire rope ing and turning lanes. "The installation of rope barriers has been a barriers across the state. The highly controversial barriers were the concern amongst the community for years. The subject of a damning Auditor-General's report barriers between Yea and Molesworth were the that showed the project is full of misleading fig- first in the state and were a constant subject of complaint." ures and false facts. Barriers were installed along 20 of the most "I have no doubt that locals will not be at all dangerous highways in Victoria, however many surprised by the report,” Ms McLeish said. “The flawed rationale for the project, flawed of them are placed in low-risk areas. selection of installation sites and flawed manThe lack of stakeholder consultation was also agement shows how little effort and planning the subject of criticism. the Labor Government put into this project." “The Labor Government failed to provide The report reveals the Labor Government's comparative barrier options, leaving flexible barrollout will exceed the estimated budget cost by riers as the only solution. $100 million. “There is no adequate evidence to support "That comes as no surprise as the budget for their claim that wire rope barriers will reduce demonstration barriers on the Melba Highway car accidents by 85 per cent. blew out from an expected $350,000 to “The Auditor-General reported the car crash $505,000,” Ms McLeish said. reduction figures are closer to 56 per cent. “The true cost of the Goulburn Valley High“The report shows barrier locations have not way installations was never released." been accurately recorded on these dangerous "The wire rope barrier rollout is just another highways, nor the points of emergency service example of the city centric Labor Government's access. poor treatment of regional Victoria. “There is no record kept of how often flex“They invested works in the wrong places, ible barriers are maintained and no timeliness failed to locate hotspots and failed to consider standard for repairs. views from Emergency Services. “This hinders the ability to evaluate the effectiveness of the barriers and the location of the barriers in time of emergency. "The State Labor Governmentis throwing ■ Yarra Ranges Council is seeking Expresaround taxpayers money installing these barrisions of Interest from Aboriginal and Torres ers and then forgetting where they've installed Strait Islander artists and creative teams for them - truly extraordinary." a significant public art opportunity at the newly "The Auditor-General's report reveals how developed Civic Centre in Lilydale. little the State Labor Government care about The successful artist or creative team will regional Victoria. The data revealed in this rebe selected by a panel consisting of an Indigenous advisory committee and Yarra Ranges port doesn't do the project any favours," Ms Council. McLeish said.
Indigenous art
■ Applications are now open for Murrindindi Shire Council's 'Grants and Contributions Program'. The Program helps communities and businesses access funds to support projects and events that align with the goals we set in the 2017-2021 Council Plan. This year in particular, the Council is interested in supporting projects and initiatives that will help the community, business and industry bounce back from what has been a difficult time for many. Mayor Cr Leigh Dunscombe said the Program has nine different streams of financial and in-kind support available to not-for-profit community groups, businesses and event organisers. “We have a great range of grants available, from quick response grants to business and innovation grants to community sponsorships and events grants. “Each of these grants is open for applications from July 1 to November 30, with a second round opening from February 1 to 30 June 30, 2021. “All grant applications will be assessed and awarded each month, including applications for ■ Fee Reductions ■ Quick Response Grants ■ Community Sponsorships ■ Community Projects and Events ■ Events - Small or New Tourism Events ■ Events - Events of State Significance ■ Governance, Skills and Capacity Building ■ Business and Innovation Grants ■ Economic or Industry Growth “We want to make grants easily accessible to the community, so if you would like to learn more about this Program and how you can apply, please visit our website at murrindindi.vic.gov.au/grants or you can give us a call on 5772 0333,” Cr Dunscombe said. - Contributed
Page 12 - Wednesday, July 1, 2020
www.LocalMediacom.au
People
Photos: Ash Long
Freemasons Victoria Grand Installation Photos: Ash Long
● Peter Julier, Richard Elkington and Peter Gurr.
● Richard Elkington takes his obligation.
● Richard Elkington addressed by Don Reynolds.
● Felix Pintado, Richard Elkington, Ian Goddard and Roger Manderson
● Anthony Bucca and Ben Quick
● Richard and Kathleen Elkington, Anthony and Anna Bucca
● Anthony Bucca seals his obligation.
● Anthony Bucca, Ash Long and Richard Elkington.
● Richard Elkington and Myles King.
● John Rodrigo, Senior Grand Warden.
www.LocalMedia.com.au
Observations New Aussie label
■ As the screen industry emerges out of a COVID-19 world and is looking to find ways to reinvigorate itself, Monster Pictures and producer Chris Brown’s Pictures in Paradise have joined forces in their common commitment to become an important part of the economic recovery. This week they announced the establishment of an international production and investment partnership with Nicolas Levene and Toby Louie of Fairvale Entertainment to launch a premier Australian horror and genre label that will focus on producing and financing elevated and shrewdly budgeted films aimed at the international market. The team intends to launch with a slate of five films and are now looking for projects from writers, directors, producers and creative teams as they explore new ways to innovatively finance and produce feature films as Australia and New Zealand emerge as two of the most COVID-19 safe production environments in the world. The vision is to pioneer a new model of creating screen content in Australia and New Zealand, an exciting prospect for independent filmmakers that offers an opportunity to have their films guided through a production pipeline in which every aspect of development, production and most importantly distribution is already attached. The long term goal is to have a production company that is recognised globally as a leader in the Australian Screen Industry, one that is creating hundreds of local jobs, driving economic growth and investing into horror and genre talent. A renaissance of Australian cinema is now imminent and the partners see this new venture as part of an exciting rebirth of local storytelling that will focus on the need for diversity in filmmaking by giving more opportunities to new voices and filmmakers with diverse backgrounds, experiences and unique points of view. Chris Brown said: “COVID-19 has permanently changed the way films will be made on every level. “The fact that horror films have always worked in contained locations with smaller casts puts us in a unique position to take advantage of this and make high concept, contained stories. “This new venture is a meeting of experienced minds that are all significantly established and experienced in what they do and have the necessary market place relationships in place to make this work”. Director of Monster Pictures, Grant Hardie, said: “We will focus on developing, producing and distributing cost- effective, high quality, high concept, character-driven films while consistently entertaining audiences around the world”. Fairvale Entertainment’s Nicolas Levene and Toby Louie commented; “Partnering with Chris Brown and Monster Pictures is one of the more exciting opportunities we have come across and we are very much looking forward to expanding our business into Australia and New Zealand showcasing their genre talent”. - Cheryl Threadgold
CIVICS at R’wood CIVICS -curated by Laura McLean This fascinating exhibition presents documents, photographs and artworks drawn from the Ringwood and District Historical Society and the Maroondah City Council Art Collection. CIVICS considers the way in which nation, states and territories are formed through imperial systems of data collection, organisation and representation. Exhibition opens July 1 and closes August 14. Maroondah Federation Estate Gallery 32 Greenwood Ave ,Ringwood - Peter Kemp
Jones on Sky
■ Former 2GB/4BC breakfast announcer Alan Jones will host a new Sky News program four nights a week. The program starts on Monday (July 6)
Observer
Wednesday, July 1, 2020 - Page 13
Perfromances Coady Green
Published statewide weekly in the Melbourne Observer and all editions of The Local Paper. Phone: 1800 231 311. Email: editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au
WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, 2020
ARTS HOUSE DIGITAL ■ Arts House, North Melbourne presents Alex Kelly and David Pledger in Assembly for the Future, a series of participatory, digital gatherings of around 70 citizens who will create new visions for futures that may be credible, idealistic or utterly fanciful. A multi-platform exploration of futures to come in the era of climates changed, Assembly for The Future transports collaborators, participants and audiences to 2029, when significant impacts on planetary health are causing powerful transformations of our cultural, political and energy systems. Registrations are open to participate in: Thursday, July 9 at 2 pm , Assembly for the Future: Beyond Whiteness - The Rise of New Power Thursday, July 23 at 2 pm , Assembly for the Future: Somewhere, Everywhere, Right Here Global Struggle Comes Home Thursday, August 6 , at 10am, Assembly for the Future: The Last Disabled Oracle Further details: www.artshouse.com.au
● Alex Kelly
Grants from Frankston ■ Frankston City Council is supporting two grant streams to support local artists to continue creating work that contributes to their culture and community. The funding is a part of the $6.434m Relief and Recovery Package, to help individuals, community groups and businesses survive and thrive through COVID-19 and beyond. Artist grant streams include: ■ Creative Industries Professional Development Grants (up to $2,500) ■ Artist Project Grants (up to $4,000) To apply for funding please read details about
the two grant streams on the City of Frankston website then complete and submit the relevant application form through the secure online grants system, Smartygrants. Applicants must live, work or study in the Frankston municipality or demonstrate a strong affiliation with the Frankston City municipality. More information about the range of opportunities in the Community and Business Support Grant Program is available on www.frankston.vic.gov.au/Home Submissions close: Sunday, July 19.
Review: Coriolanus ■ Not often performed, the plot of Shakespeare’s Coriolanus is convoluted. The general, Caius Marcius (Tom Hiddleston) is contemptuous of the plebeians of Rome for rioting. He finds them undeserving of the grain they want as the populace hadn’t fought to save Rome in the recent battles with the Tarquin kings. The impending threat posed by the Volscian army then propels Marcius to glory as he defeats their leader, Aufidius (Hadley Fraser) and is greeted as Coriolanus – or conqueror. Capitalising on his new found reputation Coriolanus enters politics only to find he cannot live up to the expectations of the people or political opponents who want to bring him down. Sent into exile and humiliated, he defects to the Volscian army and leads them against Rome. A change of heart occurs when his mother, Volumina (Deborah Findlay), appeals to his honour which will be forever tarnished by his betrayal. Coriolanus concedes and is slain by Aufidius. Shakespeare’s reasons for tackling this topic may coincide with popular uprisings in England against the merging of small landholdings into larger estates by landlords consolidating their holdings. Whilst audiences might be able to identify with the theme of disaffection, the character of Coriolanus is less sympathetic.
‘The strength of the language and the skill of the actors hold the moment’ He has no monologues that help establish his train of thought or change of heart. Coriolanus is not a conventional tragic hero nor are the vagaries of the general public easy to fathom. For all that, this is a dynamic production. The minimalist set (Lucy Osborne) and the sparse direction (Josie Rourke) sees characters stepping into their multiple roles from seats set against a common wall. The strength of the language and the skill of the actors hold the moment. The back wall serves as a screen and a prop for graffiti. A simple square painted on the floor becomes the prime focal area into which characters enter and depart the action. At two hours and 40 minutes in length, this YouTube streaming of the National Theatre’s production first performed in 2014 is not for the faint hearted. It is, however, more than just a record of one of Shakespeare’s lesser known plays, it is a testament to the theatrical arts and the performance skills by actors that make theatre come alive. - Review by David McLean
● Coady Green ■ The sound of live performances has been missing in Melbourne for more than three months now, but for concert pianist Coady Green, that's about to change. Coady is performing three socially distanced classical piano concerts at Brunswick's Tempo Rubato later this week. The concerts are on Friday (July 3_ at 8pm and Saturday (July 4) at 6 pm and 8 pm. With only an audience of 20 people permitted, the concerts of Liszt, Kouvaras and Rubinstein are heavily booked, such is the desire for live professional classical music. But if you miss out on scoring a ticket to the live concerts, Coady's pianist fingers are very busy at the moment, preparing to record his first set of CDs for British label Toccata Classics. He will be recording the complete piano etudes of the Romantic Russian composers, Anthon Rubinstein. This is a particular exciting project, as they have never been recorded in their entirety before and are notoriously difficult. And that's not all for this busy musician he is also recording a CD of Australian music for saxophone and piano, with his classical saxophone playing partner Justin Kenealy. Together they are Duo Eclettico, and this recording will be on the Australian Tall Poppies label. Coady is adamant that he loves sharing his music with a live audience, because he says that while each of the audience come from different background with their own personal stories, all are united for a moment by the experience of the music. So what has this passionate pianist missed most about not having live performances? "The communication between performer and audience is what I have missed about live performance, and what thrills me to go back to performing live attain," he said. Away from the concert state, Coady is a pianist and lecture in classical performance at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music at the University of Melbourne. If you miss the Tempo Rubato concerts, you can catch Coady and Justin in Duo Eclettico at Melbourne Recital Centre on November 9 in their concert entitled Full Moon Dances, which is part of the Local Heroes series. For more information about the July concerts go to www.temporubato.com.au, and for the November concert visit www.melbournerecitalcentre.com.au - Julie Houghton
Page 14 - Wednesday, July 1, 2020
Victorian Arts Bendigo Gallery Bessie Davidson & Sally Smart - Teo artists and the Parisian avant-garde Bessie Davisdon was one of a cohort of female Australian artists who.at the turn of the 19th century, sought to expand their lives and artistic careers by travelling to the renowned cultural centres of Europe, most notably Paris and London. Many artists returned to Australia bringing their matured artistic style to an Australian audience. Davidson was one of the few who choose to stay in Europe, firmly establishing herself within the vibrant artistic milieu of Paris's Montparnasse. Over the course of her career Davidson received many accolades and awards including being made a chevalier of the Legion of Honour - the highest award conferred by the French Government. Whilst Davidson's work has largely been overlooked in Australia, stories of Bessie Davidson's life as an artist living in Paris were a frequent part of conversation in artist Sally Smart's childhood home in rural South Australia. Bessie was Sally's great aunt - her legacy empowered this renowned Australian artist to follow her own artistic ambitions. This exhibition brings together more than 50 works that highlight Davidson's 'modern French impressionist' style of painting - with life filled domestic interiors, landscapes and portraits of women, in addition, the gallery has invited Sally Smart to create a new body of work responding to and developing upon the cultural legacy of Davidson as a pioneering female South Australian artist - firmly placing the work of this ground-breaking artist back into the story of Australian art history. Sally Smart, who recently retraced Davidson's life in Paris, has worked with leading dancers, Deane Butterworth and Jo Lloyd, to create a new cross-disciplinary video installation that represents Davidson's relationship with lifelong friend and rumoured lover, Margaret Preston. His newly commissioned work "embodies the timeless psychological tensions for these women, grappling with the avant-garde in art and life, at a traumatic period in human history with war, isolation, gender and modernity", and will be shown alongside a survey of key works from Smart's Australian and international collection. Exhibition closes July 26. Or you can go to bendigoregion.com.au/Bendigo-art-gallery and follow the instructions. ★ The Story of Bendigo Art Gallery Bendigo Art Gallery is one of the oldest and largest regional galleries in Australia, established in 1887, Bendigo Art Gallery's collection is extensive, with emphasis on 19th century European art and Australian art from the 1800s alongside a strong collection of contemporary Australian art. The collection includes paintings, sculpture, ceramics, decorative arts, photography works on paper and Australian art. Including works by artists such as Patricia Piecinini, Bill Henson Dale Frank, Kan Nelson, Fiona Hall, Emily Kane Kingwarreye, Kit Webster, and Ben Armstrong. Over the past decade. Bendigo Art Gallery has cemented its reputation for presenting innovative international exhibitions alongside a dynamic and varied suite of public programs and events. Bendigo Art Gallery attracts a diverse audience from metropolitan Melbourne and from across Victoria and Australia. Bendigo Art Gallery 42 View St, Bendigo . - Peter Kemp
www.LocalMediacom.au p
Melbourne
Confidential Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless
‘Together With You’ ■ As the school holidays begin, Arts Centre Melbourne’s Families Program has created online experiences through the Together With You digital offering which is a world of fun and interactive experiences to help kids stay connected, entertained and inspired. They will be able to ignite their imagination with their family by watching theatre performances, listen to music and podcasts, explore stories or get stuck into a creative activity at home. Step into an imaginary world of hidden tunnels, lava pits and underwater caves without ever leaving home in Mountain Goat Mountain. In this interactive journey, families will be guided with audio through a series of playful activities before being carried along through an immersive soundscape. Created entirely in isolation, Mountain Goat Mountain is designed for children and grown-ups to share together. Last year, A Not So Traditional Story by Nathan Maynard took to the Fairfax stage in a story with a little bit of truth and a little bit of make believe. This archival recording combines Terrapin entertaining and engaging children with the voice of a new generation of Tasmanian Aboriginal performing artists. The work will be available for 10 days from 12pm Monday (July 6) Kids can also participate in multiple workshops created by The Channel: Home Studio which allows them to get creative in their very own digital home studio. They can discover how to create beats, perform magic tricks, make their own puppets, write lyrics and so much more. This series of fun and interactive digital workshops is taught by leading artists and musicians. A Lyric Writing Workshop with Eva Popov takes kids through an easy step-by-step guide to writing their own lyrics; DIY Beat-Making Workshop with Benji Miu sees Benji use household items and the Koala Sampler app to show young creatives how to make a unique sample-based drum kit; Puppetry Workshop with Iris
will teach kids how to make their own puppet with materials you can find at home, and then guide you in bringing it to life; once you have sworn the magician’s oath, you can step behind the curtain and enter a world of mind-boggling magic secrets in the Magic Workshop with Lee Cohen; and incredible beatboxing mime Holly Austin will give 5-8 year olds a crash course in clowning and show 9-11 year olds how to create a world to perform in, using only the voice, body, and imagination. Edition 1: Top 5 Picks for Families – Run away with the Flying Fruit Fly Circus, get crafty with Polyglot Theatre, laugh with The Listies, see what the Teeny Tiny Stevies have been up to and be immersed in an audio story adventure. Edition 2: Top 5 Picks for Families – David Walliams talks about imagination, enjoy story time with Grug, create a world of shadow puppets and snuggle up on the couch to watch children’s theatre. Edition 3: Top 5 Picks for Families – In this edition of top picks kids become the artists! Make music with the MSO, give poetry a try, learn African drumming, dive into an international art project or watch award-winning children’s theatre. Edition 4: Top 5 Picks for Families– Try your hand at making puppets, watch the tale of Anansi the Spider, listen to Kinderling radio’s guided meditation and perform your very own theatre shows at home! Edition 5: Top 5 Picks for Families - Dive into creative activities with your family these school holidays. From trying your hand at juggling, to learning the art of book making, stay creative this winter. In this Author Talk, Australian children’s author and illustrator Shaun Tan discusses the motivation and meaning behind his stories and illustrations, often encouraging readers to ask questions rather than reach conventional conclusions. Tan shares insights into what it means to be an artist, how he develops ideas and some of his own tips for writing and drawing. This talk is suitable for ages 11+. - Cheryl Threadgold
Dear Australia
■ Arts Centre Melbourne alongside Playwriting Australia (PWA) and 25 arts organisations from across the country will broadcast Dear Australia; a collation of creative works from 50 Australian playwrights from July 2-5 on its digital hub, Together With You. Interim Executive Chair of Playwriting Australia, David Berthold, said that this was a project that “not only elevates the voice of playwrights, but also demonstrates the huge diversity of voices this nation enjoys.” “Recent months have exposed and prised open many cracks in our society. “These 50 micro works address major questions, allowing us to see into some of those cracks, but also inviting us to see light ahead. “These stories are, in turn, confronting and comforting. Together, they are a revelation and unique celebration of Australian voices.” Arts Centre Melbourne will be working in partnership with Playwriting Australia alongside Adelaide Festival Centre, Canberra Theatre Centre, Darwin Entertainment Cen-
tre, Queensland Performing Arts Centre and the Sydney Opera House. “This has been an amazing opportunity to partner with PlaywritingAustralia to ensure Dear Australia is accessible to as many people as possible. “This project has proven to be a fantastic collaboration across major performing arts venues across the industry, said Dan Clarke, Arts Centre Melbourne Creative Producer. “Arts organisations have always had a history of collaboration and exploring ideas together. “Our art-forms are collaborative in their nature, but there is even more opportunity to work together now. We haven’t experienced anything like the current circumstances; and as a sector; new collaborations are vital to its recovery.” Notable playwrights include Richard Frankland, Nakkiah Lui, Anchuli Felicia King, Suzie Miller and Jada Alberts, along with actors such as Jack Thompson, Miranda Tapsell, Helen Thomson, Danielle Cormack, Peter Carroll and Tasma Walton. Participating organisations include the Australian Theatre
for Young People, Barking Gecko Theatre Company, Contemporary Asian Australian Performance, Blue Cow Theatre, Brink Productions, Brown’s Mart, Griffin Theatre Company, HotHouse Theatre, Ilbijerri Theatre Company, Jute Theatre Company, La Boite Theatre Company, La Mama, Merrigong Theatre Company, Monkey Baa Theatre Company, Moogahlin Performing Arts, National Theatre of Parramatta, NORPA, PlayLab, Red Stitch Actors’ Theatre, South Australian Playwrights Theatre, The Street Theatre, Terrapin Puppet Theatre, Theatre Works, Windmill Theatre Company, and Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company. The Dear Australia content will be streamed through Arts Centre Melbourne’s digital platform Together With You as well as Facebook. Victorian times are as follows: ■ Thursday, July 2 at 7pm ■ Friday, July 3 at 7pm ■ Saturday, July 4 at 5pm For further details visit artscentremelbourne.com.au
Observations Geelong Arts Centre Partial Re-Opening The GAC is delighted to announce the partial re-opening Geelong Arts Centre commencing July 13. The new Ryrie St building will fully open to the public, offering a range of services and opportunities for the community - including rehearsal and performance spaces and the return pf the Creative Engine program. Completing GAC's on site activity, the Gallery will continue to offer a rich online experience through the popular Where Creativity Meets At Home series. Stay tuned for fantastic live-stream performances, behind the scenes moments, digital content and creative activities on the website and social media channels for the company's audiences. The reopening plan follows the Victorian Government's directions on the gradual easing of coronavirus restrictions, which are subject to ongoing review. GAC is putting in a range of health, hygiene and physical distancing measures n place, in line with government guidelines to ensure the safety pf the visitors and staff. For more information and updates see geelongartscntre.org.au Geelong Arts Centre 60 Little Malop St, Geelong - Peter Kemp
The Substation
■ The Substation presents Platform: a New-World Arts Experience. A digitally-scaled recreation of The Substation building hosted inside a private Minecraft server, Platform is a space for artists across visual arts and electronic music to develop and present new work. In-game audiences will be free to explore the iconic Newport building, attend exhibitions across its galleries and interact with other audience avatars. This new-world experience seeks to capture the sense of community that transpires in the physical venue, with a series of events scheduled from July 17. The first event is a partnered club night meets exhibition with local-techno aficionados Stable Music featuring music from: ■ Jani Ho (live) AU ■ Monolith AU ■ An on Bast (live) PL ■ Matt Radovich AU ■ Honeysmack (live) AU The in-game exhibition, curated by The Substation, will feature work from: ■ Ian MacLarty and Kalonica Quigley - Installation/3D Art ■ Henry Jock Walker - Gallery Exhibition ■ EduElfie - World Customisation For further details visit www.thesubstation.org.au - Cheryl Threadgold
Scienceworks
■ Melbourne Museum and Scienceworks have now reopened to the public and look forward to welcoming guests back through their doors. In line with guidelines from the Victorian Government and Chief Health Officer, several measures will be put in place to support public health and safety. For example, there will be limited capacity within the enclosed spaces, increasing cleaning throughout the day and collecting visitors' first names and phone numbers to help with contact tracing in the event of a suspected COVID-19 case. Tickets should be pre-booked online for a specific time, and visits aimed for two hours or less. Further details: www.museumsvictoria. com.au - Cheryl Threadgold
Papers resume
■ Australian Community Media has announced this morning that dozens of local print titles suspended in April due to the shortages of work, resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, will resume printing this week. - Telum Australia