The Local Paper. Eastern Suburbs Edition. Wed., June 18, 2025
■ The ‘village heart’ of Blackburn is under threat, North-East Metropolitan MLC Richard Welch has told State Parliament.
“I rise today to share concerns on behalf of the residents of Blackburn regarding the future of Blackburn Village in the activity centre that has been designated over it,” Mr Welch told the Legislative Council.
“For generations Blackburn Village has been more than a commercial strip, it has been a genuine community hub and a home to family-run cafes, local grocers and small businesses that have served that community very well, but the character is deeply under threat.
“The Blackburn activity centre is opening the way for anything from six- to eight- to 12- to 20-storey buildings in the village heart.
“Surrounding residential streets may see buildings of six to eight storeys as the preferred heights.
“If there is social housing, there is no limit –it may go higher. There is no binding consultation.
“There are sweeping changes. I recently spoke with an owner of the local fish and chip shop on South Parade, which has served the community for over a decade.
“They told me that once this plan is put into place, they will be forced to leave and will be
out of business. The sentiment is shared by many.
“At the Blackburn market I heard the same concerns from new Australians who had moved here because of the neighbourhood’s villagelike character and surrounding suburbs.
“We are going to lose massive amounts of tree canopy and local treasured assets like the Blackburn Lake Sanctuary – their ecosystem will be under threat and overshadowed.
“Please do not let the pursuit of windfall gains tax override the will of everyday Blackburn residents.
“I urge the Government to rethink their approach. I stand with the people of Blackburn in saving Blackburn,” Mr Welch said.
● ● ● ● Water Week
✔Yarra Valley Water has announced the National Water Week 2025 poster competition is underway, with entries now open to all pre-schools and primary schools across its service region. Students from Melbourne’s North and East are being encouraged to create a poster with the theme of Water Heroes: Save Every Drop. The winners will be announced in October and go into a statewide competition, with the ultimate winners revealed during National Water Week, October 20-26.
● ● Talbot Quarry at Oakleigh South
✖Monash Council has outlined seri ous concerns with a proposal to rezone and develop a former quarry and landfill for residential housing in Oakleigh South. In its submission to the Minister for Planning, Monash Council will argue against rezoning the former Talbot Quarry amid concerns about the ongoing management of contamination and geotechnical issues. Monash Mayor, Cr Paul Klisaris, said it is important to advocate on behalf of any future residents of the site. “We understand and support the Victorian Government’s plans to create additional housing supply but given the site’s history as a sand quarry and landfill we have consistently expressed serious concerns about the proposed rezoning and residential development. Council is objecting to the draft amendment as it does not provide the level of detail and certainty required to protect current and future residents from ongoing risks resulting from previous quarrying and landfill activities.”
✔Cycling in Manningham is gearing up for a boost and residents can now have their say on plans for a variety of recreational bike facilities such as dirt jumps, pump tracks, flow trails and bike playgrounds. Manningham Council is seeking community feedback on its draft Recreational Bike Facilities Plan, which aims to provide a network of recreational cycling facilities across Manningham over the next 10 years. Manningham Mayor, Cr Deirdre Diamante, said the goal is to create a cycling network that provides opportunity for everyone, and that community input will help ensure the plan is on the right track. “We’ve seen a growing demand for more bike riding options in Manningham, with people looking for new and diverse riding experiences,” Cr Diamante said. “We want to create a plan that reflects the community’s needs and aspirations, responding to their call for facilities that cater to different riding abilities, styles and preferences and people of all ages,” she said. “This plan is about creating spaces that support both recreational riders looking for fun and safe places to ride, as well as more seasoned riders looking for more challenging experiences.”
$71.9m for Monash projects
■ Monash Council’s 2025-26 budget has been confirmed.
Highlights of this year’s budget include:
■ $71.9m in capital works projects
■ $13.5m in road projects including reconstructions and rehabilitation works, resurfacing and kerb and channel renewals
■ $4.8m in footpath renewal works
■ $2.6m on drainage improvements
■ $1m of renewal works at our aquatic centres
$1.6m to progress the Glen Waverley Civic Precinct project
■ $2.2m to continue work on the Waverley Rail Trail
“The Victorian Government’s rate capping policy continues to challenge councils,” said Monash Mayor Cr Paul Klisaris.
“While designed to ease financial pressure on households, rate capping limits the revenue councils can generate – despite increasing costs in every area of service delivery.
“As the council with the lowest rates per capita in Victoria, this means Monash must continually do more with less.
“And yet, we remain committed to being a council that continues to invest in core services that shape everyday life—waste collection, parks and open space, early education, libraries, sport and recreation, and road upgrades.
“These are the services that our community values most, and we are determined to protect and enhance them.
“In this budget, we have also prioritised capital works projects that invest in the future of Monash
“By upgrading community facilities, improving accessibility and safety in our public spaces, ensuring our sporting pavilions meet modern standards, we are focused on delivering infrastructure that meets the needs of our growing population.
“One of these exciting capital works projects is our Glen Waverley Civic Precinct project, a major investment that will a include new library, community event and meeting spaces,” Cr Kilsaris said.
Better parking in City of Knox
● ● ● ●
■ knox Council is inviting feedback on parking in Rowville and Mountain Gate to inform the development of new parking plans for these centres. Feedback closes on Monday (June 23).
“The Council has an important role in managing parking to ensure it is fair, equitable, accessible and safe for our community,” said a City of Knox representative.
“We are developing new Parking Management Plans for two activity centres, Rowville and Mountain Gate in Ferntree Gully.
“This is your chance to share your thoughts and experiences on various parking matters, including parking availability, time restrictions, issues and accessibility parking.
“By sharing your views and experiences, you can help inform the development of the draft plans.”
Rowville Activity Centre includes Stud Park Shopping Centre, Rowville Community Centre, Rowville Secondary College and Rowville Primary School.
Mountain Gate Activity Centre includes Mountain Gate Shopping Centre, Pickett Reserve and Gymnastics Centre
Further information is available on the Council’s Have Your Say webpage.
Nominations open
■ Manningham Council has launched a new community awards program to honour and celebrate individuals and groups doing amazing things.
Mayor Cr Deirdre Diamante officially announced the Manningham Community Awards, with nominations opening on Monday this week (June 16).
“We’re incredibly fortunate to have so many remarkable individuals, groups and organisations in our community, all working tirelessly to make a real difference,” Cr Diamante said.
“I’m thrilled to introduce the new Manningham Community Awards – a program dedicated to recognising the outstanding contributions of those who are helping to shape our vibrant community.
“This year, we will celebrate those who have gone above and beyond in making Manningham a better place to live, work and visit over the past 12 months.”
Trip to FOGO plant
■ Nearly 30 Maroondah residents toured the Bio Gro organics processing facility in Dandenong South, the destination for all of Maroondah’s FOGO (Food Organics Garden Organics) once it is collected from the kerb. Upon arrival, attendees donned protective gear and stepped into the massive processing shed.
45 YEARS AS NEWSMAN IN MELBOURNE’S EAST
In 1978, Ash Long was Editor of Bayswater News, as well as President of the Bayswater Chamber of Commerce of Industry.
Leader Newspapers promoted the 22year-old to become Manager of the Knox and Mountain District Free Press, where he led production of a record-size 76page edition.
He had stints as Manager of the KnoxSherbrooke News, as well as Acting Editor of group newspapers including Box Hill, Nunwading, Ringwood, Croydon, Lilydale, Waverley and Chadstone.
Some 45 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.
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.
In the intervening years, there have been successes (and a few stumbles!)
Ash Long as Editor of the Bayswater News in 1978.
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 Local Paper team remain committed to providing the best possible service to readers and clients.
● ● ● ●
Cr Paul Klisaris, Mayor
Photo: City of Knox
MELBOURNE
Visa breaches alleged
■ A Sudan-born man has appeared before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (June 10), charged with failing to comply with his visa-mandated conditions.
The Australian Federal Police charged the man, 39, after he was located in Melbourne
The man was charged with two counts of failing to ensure an electronic monitoring device remains in good working order,.
This offence carries a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment and/or a $99,000 fine.
KINGS PARK Blaze at home
■ Six FRV crews are responded to a house fire in Kings Park on Wednesday night (june 11).
Firefighters arrived at the Covar Place scene at 5.41pm, finding a 15-metre by 20metre single storey brick house well alight.
One occupant had safely evacuated before crews arrived.
The fire was in the back half of the property and had reached the roof space.
Firefighters escalated the response, sending additional firefighters and appliances.
Donning breathing apparatus, crews worked together to attack the fire, bringing it under control at 6.18pm.
A community advice warning was issued for smoke in the area.
SUNSHINE NORTH New charges
■ A Melbourne man with alleged links to international organised crime has been charged over his alleged involvement in a plot to import 70kg of cocaine.
The man, 32, from Sunshine North , is one of two brothers who were charged in over their alleged links to a ‘rip crew’ that was accused of breaking into a shipping container at the Port of Melbourne in March to access a consignment they allegedly believed contained cocaine.
However, authorities had already discovered and removed 70kg of cocaine and two GPS trackers hidden inside the shipment of industrial machinery.
A ‘rip crew’ is a group of professionals hired by criminal syndicates to retrieve illegally imported drugs from high-security areas.
When two men, dressed in black clothes and balaclavas, allegedly broke into the precinct with bolt cutters on March 105, they retrieved packages of an inert substance the AFP had placed in the container.
As a result of inquiries, the AFP executed a search warrant at the Sunshine North man’s home on April 2, and charged him over the alleged discovery of small quantities of illicit drugs at the property.
Police also seized a mobile phone for digital forensic analysis.
While examining this device, the AFP allegedly found evidence linking the man to the plot to retrieve the 70kg of cocaine which had been imported into Australia via sea cargo.
As a result of the new alleged evidence, the man was taken into custody on June 5, and appeared before the Melbourne Magistrates Court the following day charged with:
■ One count of attempted possession of a commercial quantity of an unlawfully imported border-controlled drug. he maximum penalty for this offence is life imprisonment.
■ One count of failing to comply with a 3LA Order. The maximum penalty for this offence is 10 years’ imprisonment.
The man was remanded in custody to reappear in court on July 23.
AFP Detective Superintendent Simone Butcher said the latest charges reinforced the relentless dedication of AFP investigators. “Our investigators comb through gigabytes of information in pursuit of the evidence they need,” Det Supt Butcher said.
“The AFP is dedicated to keeping Australians safe from the harm caused by illicit drugs and the cynical greed of organised crime pedalling their misery.”
MERCEDES IMPOUNDED: CLOCKED AT 131-KMH
■ Nearly one-third of drink drivers apprehended by Police during a major operation on CityLink allegedly blew more than double the limit.
The operation was led by Fawkner Highway Patrol and saw police conducting highvolume alcohol and drug testing on CityLink, targeting impaired drivers.
Police conducted 3007 preliminary breath tests, with 32 caught exceeding the alcohol limit.
Ten of those were found to have a reading more than .10, with one reaching an alleged reading of .158 which is more than three times the limit.
Officers also detected three alleged drug drivers from the 86 drivers tested.
Victoria Police is warning motorists there is a zero tolerance to drink and drug driving, with significant penalties for those blatantly disregarding the rules.
The operation was conducted by the Fawkner Highway Patrol, with support from Road Policing Drug and Alcohol Section and Melbourne and Greensborough highway patrols.
It forms part of the efforts by police across the state, who were out in force to drive down road trauma.
As part of Operation Regal, State Highway Patrol members impounded a vehicle after the driver was allegedly found to be speeding and driving while drunk.
The Mercedes sedan drew the attention of patrolling members when they detected the 31year-old travelling at 131-km h in a 100-kmh zone on the Princes Freeway about 9.20am.
The Point Cook man – who had a zero-alcohol condition on his licence - underwent a breath test, returning an alleged reading of .122.
His vehicle was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1305 and his licence was immediately suspended.
The man can expect to be charged on summons with numerous driving offences.
Police caught 136 drink drivers and 85 drug drivers across the state as part of Operation Regal.
Also detected were 117 disqualified/suspended drivers, 113 unlicensed drivers, 264 unregistered vehicles, 1252 speeding offences and 113 mobile phone offences.
Fawkner Highway Patrol, Senior Sergeant Frank Cuce said: “The number of impaired drivers we detected is incredibly disappointing.
“Not only are these drivers breaking the law, they’re also making a choice that puts everyone else on the road around them in danger.
“Detecting and removing impaired drivers from our roads is a significant priority for police and we make no apologies for running these operations. HOPPERS CROSSING
■ Fire Rescue Victoria and
Across Victoria
DHURRINGILE
Fatal collision
■ Police are investigating a fatal crash in Dhurringile on Sunday morning, Juine 8. Emergency services were called to Dhurringile Rd following reports a car had lost control and crashed into a tree about 6am.
The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle died at the scene.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash remains ongoing.
ORBOST
Two killed
■ Police are investigating a fatal crash in Orbost on Tuesday morning, June 10.
Emergency services were called to reports of a car crashing into a tree near the corner of Murphys Lane and BonangOrbost Rd about 12.20am.
The 18-year-old male driver and a 15year-old male passenger died at the scene.
A third occupant was taken to hospital with minor injuries.
Exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be determined and investigation remains ongoing.
HAMPTON PARK
Armed robbery
■ Moorabbin Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a woman following an armed robbery in Hampton Park Investigators allege that a man and woman approached a group of 15-year-old boys as they were leaving a park on Bluff Rd on Saturday, May 10, about 3.50pm.
Statewide
Country Fire Authority firefighters respondedto a house fire in Hoppers Crossing.
Crews arrived at the McCormack Crescent scene just before 6.30pm Wednesday (June 11), finding a 15-metre by 20-metre single storey brick veneer property well alight.
Firefighters immediately escalated the response, sending additional crews and appliances to attack the fire.
The back of the house was fully ablaze, with flames and smoke visible.
Donning breathing apparatus, firefighters worked together to attack the fire.
Crews brought the fire under control within 15 minutes of arrival.
Firefighters then conducted a search of the property and did not locate any occupants.
Crews remained on scene, fully extinguishing the fire.
The fire was deemed suspicious and will be investigated by Victoria Police MALVERN
Road death
■ Prahran Highway Patrol officers are investigating a collision in Malvern on Thursday night (June 12.
It is understood a car struck a pedestrian on Malvern Rd, near the intersection of Meredith St, about 6pm.
The pedestrian, a 22-year-
old Melbourne woman, was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries. She died in hospital on Friday morning.
The male driver of the vehicle, a 62-year-old Mount Waverley man, stopped at the scene and assisted.
Exact circumstances of the collision are being investigated.
BAYSWATER
Drug seizure
■ Police have seized approximately $1.5 million worth of cannabis from an industrial area in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs as part of an ongoing investigation into commercial drug trafficking.
Detectives from Croydon Divisional Response Unit executed two search warrants at two factory sites in the Bayswater area on Thursday (June 12).
Upon entering the adjoining factories, detectives uncovered two large-scale hydroponic cannabis set-ups.
More than 1300 cannabis plants were seized, weighing just over 1000 kilograms (a tonne).
No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information about drug trafficking is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au Victoria Police
The teens were carrying a football when it is alleged the woman produced a taser and made demands for the football.
It is alleged the woman chased the boys, causing one to fall to the ground before stealing the football and fled the scene.
A 15-year-old Brighton boy sustained serious injuries.
Detectives executed three search warrants in Hampton East, South Melbourne and Footscray where they located and recovered the allegedly stolen football and taser.
A 20-year-old South Melbourne woman was arrested and charged with armed robbery and remanded to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court. Investigations in relation to the identity of the male co-offender remains under investigation.
MORNINGTON PENINSULA Inquiry extended
■ The State Government is extending the final reporting date for the Board of Inquiry into the McCrae landslide to gather more expert evidence to get to the bottom of what happened.
The reporting date will be extended to September 10 to allow the Inquiry to obtain further expert evidence to make findings on the Terms of Reference.
In January, a landslide led to multiple homes being evacuated in McCrae and a Council worker was hospitalised after a house slid down a hill and collided with other homes.
The Inquiry was established on March 18 to investigate the cause of the landslide. The Inquiry has undertaken work including site visits, public hearings, and extensive engagement with the local community.
Led by Renée Enbom KC, the Inquiry is also investigating measures to prevent similar incidents occurring again.
The Inquiry will now be required to deliver a final report to the State Government by no later than September 10.
Premier Jacinta Allan said: “We thank the board for the substantial amount of work to investigate the cause of the McCrae landslide to date.”
“The extension of the Inquiry will ensure residents’ voices will continue to be heard and will help identify measures to prevent this from happening again."
Ms Enbom said the additional time enables geotechnical engineers and other experts to undertake further analysis.
● ● ● ● Police impounded a Mercedes sedan.
In association with the Established September 14, 1969 Online weekly. Print copies fortnightly.
Published in localised editions in 40 areas across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and some country areas.
ABOUT US
Incorporating the traditions of the Evelyn Observer (Est. 1873), the Box Hill Reporter (Est. 1888), Doncaster-Templestowe News (Est. 1962), Maroondah Mail (Est. 1922), Knox-Sherbrooke News (Est. 1967), Mountain District Free Press (Est. 1946). Waverley Gazette (Est. 1961) Progress News
The Local Paper is published weekly online and printed fortnightly and circulates in a local edition: • Local Paper - Eastern Suburbs Edition
Columnists: Len Baker, Matt Bissett-Johnson, Rob Foenander, Peter Kemp, Aaron Rourke, Ted Ryan, Cheryl Threadgold, Julie Houghton, Kevin Trask, John O’Keefe
Honorary Reviewers: Juliet Charles, Sherryn Danaher, Lyn Hurst, Kathryn Keeble, Beth Klein, Graeme McCoubrie, David McLean, Maggie Morrison, Peter Murphy, Lucy Nicolson, Jill Page, Elizabeth Semmell
Logistics: Tyler Sandiford, Tim Granvillani, Erica Koldinsky
Credit Manager: Michael Conway OAM, Fast Action Debt Recovery, 0402 142 866
Ash on Wednesday Firearms raid at Croydon
■ Detectives from the Illicit Firearms Squad have charged a man after a cache of homemade firearms, firearm parts, ammunition, weapons and drugs were seized in Croydon
The investigation commenced in partnership with Australian Border Force and led to a search warrant being executed at a residential address in Croydon on the morning of Tuesday, June 3.
Detectives seized eight 3D printed handguns, one privately made metal handgun, several gel blasters and imitation firearms, approximately 40 rounds of ammunition, a large quantity of various firearm parts and accessories including suppressors, five 3D printers, a quantity of methylamphetamine and two conducted electricity devices (tasers).
A 38-year-old Croydon man was subsequently charged with a range of offences, including:
■ Manufacture general category handgun without a licence,
■ Possess firearm parts for manufacture firearm,
■ Possess equipment to manufacture firearm,
■ Prohibited person possess a firearm,
■ Possess silencers,
■ Possess ammunition without licence,
■ Prohibited person possess imitation firearm,
■ Traffick Methylamphetamine, and
■ Possess prohibited weapons.
The man was remanded to appear at Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on June 12.
Long Shots
Detective Senior Sergeant Amanda Cohen, Illicit Firearms Squad , said: “As police, we are constantly evolving to combat new and emerging trends used by criminals.
“Alongside our state and federal partners, we have been monitoring the issue of 3D printed firearms for a number of years and there are incredibly serious repercussions associated with this kind of activity.
“There’s a range of legislation that police use in relation to 3D printed guns, digital plans and other firearm related items.
“It is illegal to manufacture firearms without a licence, and that includes 3D printed guns.
“In the eyes of law enforcement, a functioning 3D printed firearm and its potential to cause harm to the community is no different than a traditional gun, and those caught manufacturing any face up to ten years imprisonment.”
The Illicit Firearms Squad is based within Victoria Police’s Crime Command and targets the manufacture, trafficking and use of illicit firearms across the state.
Knox opposes
■ Knox City Council says that opposes the State Government’s decision to double the emergency services levy, which all councils are legally required to collect with rates from July 1, the replacing the Fire Services Property Levy
The Local Paper is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach The Local Paper or make a complaint to the Australian Press Council in writing at: www.presscouncil.org.au
The Council may also be contacted on 1800 025 712.
The Local Paper
14, 1969
BOROONDARA NORTHERN SECTION
Incorporating the traditions of the Boroondara Weekly, Progress News, Camberwell Free Press (Est. 26, 1927) Boroondara (North) comprises Ashburton, Balwyn, Balwyn North, Burwood, Canterbury, Deepdene, Greythorn, Kew, Kew East, Mont Albert and Surrey Hills. Boroondara is home to more than 167,231 people, living in approximately 69,420 homes.
KNOX
Incorporating the traditions of the Knox-Sherbooke News (Est. April 19, 1967), Mountain District Free Press (Est. Aug. 9, 1946), Ferntree Gully News (Est. 26, 1923) and Ferntree Gully Times (Est. Jun. 8, 1889). Knox comprises Bayswater, Boronia, Ferntree Gully, Lysterfield, Knoxfield, Rowville, Scoresby, The Basin, Upper Ferntree Gully, Wantirna, and Wantirna South. Knox is home to more than 154,110 people, living in approximately 59,086 homes.
MANNINGHAM
Incorporating the traditions of East Yarra News (Est. May 9, 1962) and Doncaster-Templestowe News. Manningham comprises Bulleen, Doncaster, Doncaster East, Donvale, Nunawading (part), Park Orchards (part), Ringwood North (part), Templestowe, Templestowe Lower, Warrandyte, Warrandyte South and Wonga Park (part). Manningham is home to more than 122,900 people, living in approximately 45,500 homes.
MAROONDAH
Incorporating the traditions of the Ringwood and Croydon Mail (Est. Jan. 9, 1924), Croydon City News (Est. 1983), Ringwood City News (Est. Jul. 6, 1984). Maroondah comprises Bayswater North, Croydon, Croydon Hills, Croydon North, Croydon South, Heathmont, Kilsyth (part), Kilsyth South, Park Orchards (part), Ringwood, Ringwood East, Ringwood North (part), Vermont (part), Warranwood and Wonga Park (part). Maroondah is home to more than 117,498 people, living in approximately 54,921 homes.
MONASH
Incorporating the traditions of the Waverley Gazette (Est. Feb. 8, 1961), Oakleigh Times (Est. Jun. 8, 1889).
Monash comprises Ashwood, Clayton, Glen Waverley, Hughesdale, Huntingdale, Mount Waverley, Mulgrave, Notting Hill, Oakleigh, Oakleigh East, and Wheelers Hill. Parts of Chadstone, Burwood and Oakleigh South are also included in Monash. Monash is home to more than 202,847 people, living in approximately 70,600 homes.
WHITEHORSE
Incorporating the traditions of Box Hill Reporter (Est. Jun. 26, 1889).
Whitehorse comprises Balwyn North (part), Blackburn, Blackburn North, Blackburn South, Box Hill, Box Hill North, Box Hill South, Burwood (part), Burwood East, Forest Hill, Mitcham, Mont Albert (part), Mont Albert North, Nunawading (part), Surrey Hills (part), Vermont (part) and Vermont South. Whitehorse is home to more than 176,196 people, living in approximately 65,881 homes.
Cheryl Threadgold, Local Theatre Julie Houghton, The Arts Kevin Trask, Entertainment
Rourke, Film Ted Ryan, Horse Racing Len Baker, Harness Racing
● Sen. Sgt Amanda Cohen
Observer Melbourne
Michelle Allen and team of Muddy Creek Health Hub, Yea
I have been working as a massage therapist in Yea, at my home for the last 15 years.
I have supported people's relaxation, remedial or correctional and palliative care treatments for this community and it's been an honor.. I have always been fascinated by the body and finding ways of helping people in pain and learning to see if we can push past our symptoms to heal on a deep or lasting level. It's always been a dream of mine to be part of a health hub that includes different types of therapists and modalities coming together.
Technology is happening in our health care industry and with so many amazing minds and by still using old fashioned foundations there is some seriously successful solutions for people's pain and healthcare needs.
My clinic is lucky enough to have Rebecca Bullen join the team as a Remedial Therapist who brings the same values with a different touch to her care for clients.
I have also introduced a Telsa
Former which uses Functional Magnetic Stimulation machine that can change our body on a very deep physiological level.
It supports problems around inflammation, pain, muscular atrophy and injury, stimulates the lymphatic system and supports drainage.
Weight loss or cellulite reduction or body sculpting. Pelvic floor issues and incontinence problems have had huge success and erectile dysfunction also has some.
We have an awesome team to begin with of Rebecca Bullen, Nicole Schryver, Grace Hamilton and myself who look forward to being part of Yea and districts healthcare solutions.
My telephone number is 0419 625 536 if you would like to talk more or even come in and have a look around at our facilities. The clinic's number is 0417 658 366 or email us at info@muddycreekhealthhub. com.au
Our address is 7 The Semi Circle, Yea. The old medical Centre and the old dentist.
Singing In The Rain
● ● An exuberant gorilla at Werribee Open Range Zoo is challenging the wide-spread belief that this species dislikes the rain – and he’s making quite a splash doing it.
The 25-year-old silverback, Ganyeka, has been caught on discreet keeper cameras enthusiastically enjoying the rain, putting a cheeky spin on the classic phrase ‘singing in the rain’.
Words and Image: Jesse Failla
● ● ● ● Michelle Allen, Nicole Schryver, Bek Bullen and Grace Hamilton
Your Stars
with Kerry Kulkens
Presented by Sarah Kulkens, Australia’s
Trusted Psychic Family
ARIES (March 21 - April 20)
Lucky Colour: Green
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 8, 9, 4, 5
Lotto Numbers: 8, 4, 13, 24, 34, 41
Relationships formed now could be highly successful. Financial improvements and surprises from past connections are likely. Keep an open mind for unexpected developments.
TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)
Lucky Colour: Orange
Lucky Day: Wednesday
Racing Numbers: 8, 9, 5, 6
Lotto Numbers: 8, 13, 15, 23, 36, 44
This period brings timely solutions and assistance from someone you’ve helped before. Expect a favour returned when it’s most needed.
GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)
Lucky Colour: Peach
Lucky Day: Sunday
Racing Numbers: 3, 5, 6, 7
Lotto Numbers: 1, 14, 23, 34, 45, 2
Avoid being overly pushy, as resistance could arise. Restlessness may lead to impulsive decisions, so evaluate your options.
CANCER (June 22 - July 22)
Lucky Colour: Silver
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 8, 9, 4, 5
Lotto Numbers: 7, 8, 34, 42, 21, 11
Quick thinking could place you in a leading position. Romance might lighten your workload, adding balance to a busy week.
LEO (July 23 - August 22)
Lucky Colour: Violet
Lucky Day: Monday
Racing Numbers: 9, 5, 6, 7
Lotto Numbers: 9, 24, 31, 33, 36, 4
Misinterpretations might arise, but patience can prevent misunderstandings. Singles have reasons to celebrate— don't settle for unwanted outcomes.
VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)
Lucky Colour: Apricot
Lucky Day: Sunday
Racing Numbers: 7, 3, 4, 5
Lotto Numbers: 2, 5, 13, 35, 41, 22
Impatience may test your resolve, but careful planning will yield positive outcomes. Surprises and resurfacing connections could define your week.
LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)
Lucky Colour: Green
Lucky Day: Wednesday
Racing Numbers: 5, 7, 8, 2
Lotto Numbers: 4, 6, 23, 31, 11, 19
Maintaining harmony is essential for domestic relationships. Diplomacy will help ensure success in your current endeavours.
SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)
Lucky Colour: Fawn
Lucky Day: Thursday
Racing Numbers: 2, 6, 3, 4
Lotto Numbers: 2, 4, 13, 21, 28, 38
Seize opportunities as they come—progress is attainable if you remain open to change. To maintain peace, avoid imposing your opinions on others.
SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)
Lucky Colour: Blue
Lucky Day: Thursday
Racing Numbers: 4, 8, 2, 8
Lotto Numbers: 1, 7, 12, 25, 32, 41
Domestic challenges may arise if you push too hard. Take life as it comes to reduce tension and avoid unnecessary stress.
CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)
Lucky Colour: Pink
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 7, 3, 4, 1
Lotto Numbers: 1, 6, 12, 25, 34, 41
Extreme behaviours might complicate your week. Focus on balance and avoid draining relationships. Trust your instincts about personal and professional matters.
AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)
Lucky Colour: Yellow
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 1, 6, 2, 4
Lotto Numbers: 1, 15, 23, 31, 11, 19
Unexpected changes could disrupt routines but may lead to profitable opportunities. Stay focused and flexible to make the most of the moment.
PISCES (February 20 - March 20)
Lucky Colour: Brown
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 7, 3, 4, 1
Lotto Numbers: 1, 16, 23, 35, 41, 22
Success is guaranteed for those who’ve done the groundwork, while others may need to reassess and restart. Lucky opportunities lie just ahead.
Kerry Kulkens™ Magic Shop
1693 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave
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The Labor State Government received 1 482 community objections to the Kingswood Golf Course proposed development plans
Plans saw dwellings crammed in at a preposterous 4.5m wide
The development would overburden an area ill-equipped to handle a dramatic population increase
Objections varied, but Kingston City Council’s response described the plans as poor quality, lacking transparency, clarity, and detail.
They are confusing, containing technical errors and inconsistencies.
The plans do not meet acceptable standards, and they require further work before approval is considered.
The rejection of previous development plans for the site by our council highlights that the community is not anti-development but rather opposed to inappropriate overdevelopment.
The plans fail to satisfy the requirements for the Development Plan Overlay, Vegetation Protection Overlay, Buffer Area Overlay, Special Building Overlay, and do not meet the expectations of the Golf Course Redevelopment Standing Advisory Committee.
The SAC has expressed concerns about the lack of clarity in how the development plan was arrived at.
Instead of achieving a siteresponsive design to protect the local environment, there are plots of land as narrow as 4.5m wide, which can only be described as a fool’s exercise on how many small dwellings one can cram into a golf course.
The plans also fail to adequately identify and protect the site's environmental values and asset ownership with Melbourne Water.
Kingston City Council is working towards meeting housing targets for the Federal Labor Government's mass immigration program without resorting to overdevelopment in Dingley Village
In a recent public statement, State Planning Minister Sonia Kilkenny emphasised the importance of focusing on areas close to trains stations, trams, jobs and services when approving new developments.
She also reiterated that "our green open spaces are what make Melbourne so liveable."
The proposed development would increase Dingley Village's population by 19 per cent in just 6 per cent of the available space.
The suburb has no trains or trams and is only served by a couple of insufficient bus routes. There is also concern about traffic congestion and lack of a pedestrian pathway connecting Kingswood to the shopping precinct.
I urge Sonia Kilkenny and the State Labor Government to take this opportunity to do the
Letters must be short and may be edited. All letters to be considered for publication must have a name, street address and phone number so their authenticity can be checked. An email address is not sufficient.
right thing by working with Kingston Council, Satterley, and the community to provide a revised development plan that achieves net community benefits and positive environmental outcomes.
Despite issues such as local flooding risks, lack of infrastructure, services, and secondary schools not being properly addressed in the plans, the Kingswood Golf Course development can be corrected by reducing the number of plots to align with the local neighbourhood character.
If Sonia Kilkenny chooses to approve this flawed development plan for the Kingswood Golf Course, it will demonstrate that the Labor State Government is working to line the pockets of Satterley , the same developers who fund their political party, rather than serving the community.
I thank Kingston City Council officers, planning team leader Jonathon Guttman, and the community including Save Kingswood and the Dingley Village Community Association for their thorough assessment of Satterley's development plans for the Kingswood Golf Course in Dingley Village Satterley acquired the land after a controversial divestment by superannuation fund AusSuper in 2023, having sat on the site for nine years.
The process was spurred on at the urging of the State Government in January of this year. The State Government gave Council a little under a month
to scrutinise thousands of pages of planning documents without scope for community consultation, with Council being stonewalled by Ms Kilkenny’s office until locals took action.
The Council has provided feedback on these plans to Ms. Kilkenny, who holds ultimate decision-making power over the site in the coming weeks.
Cr Caroline White Caruana Ward, Kingston City Council
Lower NDIS limits
Sir,
In the wake of the appalling decision by the NDIS to lower price limits for physiotherapy supports, the Australian Physiotherapy Association has been inundated with stories from our members across the country on how this decision diminishes access to critical care for many of Australia’s most vulnerable people.
In one particularly troubling case, Meg Lowry, an APA member in the electorate of Logan in Queensland, has had to scrap plans to build a new practice in a low income area due to the financially challenges she will face because of this decision.
After spending thousands of hours planning, working with local government and acquiring permits to build a brain health and balance practice in an area void of much needed outpatient care, Meg finally had her application to build this new practice approved last year.
Now, after having endured five years of price limit freezes and massive rises in the costs of construction, Meg says this latest decision by the NDIS makes building the clinic too financially impractical to proceed.
As a result, local residents will now be left without badly needed care as the property site Meg Lowry spent so much time and energy acquiring sits empty.
Australian Physiotherapy Association, by email
Patience is a virtue
Sir,
To quote the very brilliant, Elon Musk: “Patience is a virtue, and I’m learning patience. It’s a tough lesson.”
To quote the very learned, Joyce Meyer:
“Patience is not simply the ability to wait - it’s how we behave while waiting.”
Howard Hutchins
100 Harold St Wantirna
Peron revolt
■ BUENOS AIRES, Friday: Although the official radio claims all is calm, Peron supporters here haye burnt seven Catholic churches and a cardinals palace.
The radio said early today the revolution against President Juan Peron was crushed with heavy loss of life. United Press reports: 156 killed, and about 900 injured/96 critically.
Inland air
■ Ansett Airways made the inaugural flight of its air service to Mildura and Broken Hill to day.'' The service by Ansett means that Mildura and Broken Hill now have a twicedaily service to and from Melbourne.
Jilted lover
■ A jilted18-year-old lover had attacked his rival with a knife in Flinders st., on June 13, police told the City Court yesterday.
The Court was told the youth "had been so distressed” when his romance was broken that he had collapsed and been taken to hospital for more than a week.
The youth, Kenneth David Bramich, 18, of North st., Richmond, who pleaded not gullty to a charge of unlawful assault with a weapon on June 13, was remanded until June 24 to undergo medical examination.
Valerie Jean Spurrier, 17, of Burnley st., Richmond , wept as she told the Court: "I know Bramich loves me. But I just fell out of love."
"I thought it best to end it," she said.
She told Mr. Goldberg, for Bramich, she had met Kenny last November and became engaged in February.
Shortly after the engagement Kenny had gone to Puckapunyal to do his National Service training.
Four weeks ago she had gone to visit him and had told him the engagement was off.
Anthony Ramoskis , of Hoddle st., Collingwood, who allegedly was attacked by Bramich, said he had gone to meet Valerie at Flinders St. Bramich had stopped Valerie. "I went over to ask what was wrong. He met me half way and grabbed a knife out of some newspaper he was carrying. I don't think he tried to stab me. I was too easy to hit and he never looked like hitting me. I think he just wanted to frighten me."
Mr. Goldberg said Bramich was a subnormal person who until he found himself going with Spurrier had been the victim of childish ridicule.
In A Persian Garden
■ The Dunolly Gilbert and Sullivan Society presents In a Persian Garden: An Afternoon with Liza Lehmann and Friends on Saturday, June 28 at 2pm at St John's Anglican Church, 5 Finch St, Malvern East
This song cycle for soprano, contralto, tenor and bass by Edwardian song-writer Liza Lehmann in a setting from 1896, will be narrated by Rachel Buckley, with additional songs by the composer.
Accompanied by Geoff Urquhart, featured artists are: Amelia Ryan, soprano, Helen Hill, contralto, Brett O'Meara, tenor, and Ian Woolford, bass-baritone.
The audience will be asked to enjoy 'the beauties of nature, the essence of love, the mysteries of existence, the joys of wine, and the necessity of seizing the day.'
The admission price includes programme and post-performance light refreshments. Duration is 90 minutes.
Performance Date: Saturday, June 28 at 2pm
Venue: St John's Anglican Church, 5 Finch St, Malvern East
■ Roy Barker’s one man show, Don’t Get Carried Away, is a picaresque account of events in his life that led him to becoming a jobbing actor.
From his role in the primary school musical to work on advertisements and plays, Barker’s account, though linear in its narrative style, maintains a disarming charm given his delight at scoring roles he thought were out of his reach.
The piece serves more as a family history of coming to Australia as a10-pound pom, going to school in Doveton, becoming an apprentice printer to scoring acting gigs.
As such, this work serves as a reminiscence that would delight Barker’s grandchildren relating, as it does,to episodes in his life’s journey.
There is no real character development or story arc to the piece. Through it all, Barker maintains his surprise and enjoyment at having the opportunity to take part in the craft of performing.
There isn’t a vast repertoire of performance skills on display or any particular insight into the emotional challenges. Barker merely documents episodes of how he came to pursue what was, after years in the printing industry, his life’s passion.
Director, Clare Pickering, has done her best to allow Barker to utilise all of the small stage in the Butterfly Club, with the occasional change of costume or attempt to engage directly with the audience providing a little variety.
The work, as such, serves as a passion piece more than anything else – and good luck to him.
Review by David McLean
Bohemian
Rhapsody
■ Following a hugely successful 2023-24 sell-out tours, Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody is returning to The National Theatre with a new show - for one night only.
Queen is among the greatest rock bands of the 20th century and Freddie Mercury is hailed by many as the most charismatic and flamboyant performer in contemporary rock history.
Well-known Australian Freddie Mercury impersonator, Thomas Crane, with his Bohemian Rhapsody band, brings back to life the visual excitement, sound and stage energy as witnessed at a Queen concert.
Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody features all the great hits including We Will Rock You, Crazy Little Thing Called Love, We Are The Champions, Radio Ga Ga, A Kind of Magic, I Want To Break Free, Another One Bites the Dust, and of course, Bohemian Rhapsody Friday, August 16.
THE LUCKY COUNTRY
■ Following its acclaimed debut season at Sydney’s Hayes Theatre, the smash hit new musical, The Lucky Country, about what it means to be Australian , will open at Melbourne’s Lawler Theatre from Monday October 13, before heading to Brisbane Powerhouse as part of MELT Festival
With an original score that pays homage to some of Australia’s greatest musicians, this 60minute chamber musical takes audiences on a joyful and moving ride through a patchwork of Aussie stories.
Digging deep into the themes of identity and belonging, The Lucky Country is a heartfelt and wildly entertaining celebration of who we can be as Australians
Created by two Australian theatre-makers — composer and lyricist Vidya Makan (Hamilton, SIX) and director Sonya Suares (Into the Woods, Sunday in the Park with George) - The Lucky Country reclaims and reimagines the national songbook with a soundtrack, performed live by a five-piece band (featuring yidaki) alongside an ensemble of six.
Composer and lyricist Vidya Makan said: “We wanted the music to feel instantly familiar — like flipping through the radio dial of Australia. You’ll hear echoes of Baker Boy, Jimmy Barnes, Kylie, The Seekers, Electric Fields plus loads more — all remixed through a contemporary lens that feels uniquely ours.”
Meet Boy, a 13-year-old Thiitharr Warra kid, whose youthful optimism is dashed when he clashes with his teacher’s notion of ‘our shared history’.
It sparks a journey of self-actualisation that leads him back to Country and a moment of truth. While Boy grapples with the fault lines in our national story, we encounter a collection of all-Aussie characters including grey nomads who find love on a Contiki tour, a Chinese Australian restaurateur who dreams of life as a Byron Bay nudist, a young refugee in Mingoola, a WWII veteran, an aspiring actress and a fake Russian choir.
Director Sonya Suares said: “This is a show that claims space for the voices and perspectives that tend to be overlooked when Australia tells its story.
“It's cheeky, it's irreverent, at times it pops off like a rocket. But at its core, it's an invitation to gather, reflect, rethink where we've been and how we might move forward together.”
Performance Dates: October 13-18, Preview: Monday October 13. Time: 7pm Monday –Wednesday, 5pm Thursday, 8pm Friday and Saturday (2.30pm matinees Wednesday and Saturday)
Venue: Southbank Theatre, The Lawler, 140 Southbank Boulevard
Booking: mtc.com.au
Tickets: Preview $44.50; Early Bird $50; Adults $65-69; Conc $55-59 (Student, Equity, Pension); Group 6+ $55; Blaktix $44.50
Cheryl Threadgold
Blackrock
■ The MC Showroom presents Blackrock, the gripping drama adapted from Nick Enright's earlier 45-minute piece, A Property of the Clan, from June 25 - 28 at the MC Showroom, Level 1, 50 Clifton St, Prahran. This reimagined production by Lunatix Theatre takes a new look at a story that confronts issues of toxic masculinity, peer pressure, and moral responsibility in the wake of tragedy.
The show asks hard questions and doesn’t flinch- a vital conversation brought to life by a new generation of artists.
It’s Toby Ackland’s birthday party down near the surf club and that should mean heaps of grog, drugs and good clean fun. But by the morning, a young girl is dead, raped by three boys and bashed with a rock.
Who is responsible? The boy? The girl? Or the whole town?
Nick Enright's Blackrock was deeply disturbing when written 30 years ago. Sadly, many of the themes, which swirl
● ● ● ● The Lucky Country around the narrative after the tragic event, still resonate today as Australia struggles with issues of domestic abuse, respect and gender equality.
Performance Dates: June 25 - 28
Venue: The MC Showroom, Level 1, 50 Clifton St., Prahran
Bookings: themcshowroom.com
Cheryl Threadgold
Film Society
■ Murrindindi Film Society will screen Stanley Kubrick’s 1964 black satirical comedy ‘Dr Strangelove’ (or how I stopped worrying and learned to love the bomb) on Friday June 20 at the Yea Butter Factory, Doors open at 6.45 pm with the screening to commence at 7pm.
Madetwo years after the Cuban missile crisis, the film takes aim at Cold War mentality as it shows what could happen if the wrong person pushed the wrong button.
In this case it is Brig. General Jack D. Ripper (Sterling Hayden) who inadvertently sets off a nuclear emergency. Chief of staff Gen. Turgidson and other military experts are summoned to stop disaster happening.
Peter Sellers plays three roles: Dr Strangelove (a wheelchairbound ex Nazi with an uncontrollable hand); Lionel Mandrake, a diplomatic RAF officer and Merkin Muffley, President of the US, who exchanges banalities with the Russian leader (Dimitri…we have a problem).
Others in the cast are Keenan Wynn and Slim Pickens in a spectacular cameo role.
Sadly, in today’s worrying world we need even more to recognise the human flaws involved in the creation of weapons of mass destruction, and Kubrick, through this darkest of satire, clearly points out the folly behind modern man’s greatest concern.
The Society hopes as many members as possible will join to view, or review, this classic film, unfortunately still relevant after 60 years. Prospective members and first time guests will be made welcome free of charge.
All enquiries to Jill Dwyer, secretary, on 5797 2480 or jill.dwyer@bigpond.com
Make-up s’ship
■ NIDA and Netflix have announce a Specialist Make-Up Scholarship, which will provide a 2026 Diploma of Screen and Media (Specialist Make-up Services) student who identifies as First Nations and/or a person of colour with $50,000 to cover academic fees, travel and living expenses for the one year course.
This initiative underscores NIDA and Netflix's commitment to fostering creative careers and providing pathways to support diversity in the film and television industries.
NIDA and industry experts are constantly refreshing the Diploma of Screen and Media (Specialist Make-Up Services) to ensure it aligns with best practice in diversity and inclusion.
Netflix will now provide scholarship funding to support First Nations and POC with pathways into hair and makeup in the Australian screen industry.
NIDA CEO Liz Hughes said, “NIDA is committed to providing industry-ready training that supports the next generation of creatives with the skills they need to thrive. We are deeply grateful to Netflix whose generous scholarship is designed to remove barriers and create opportunities for talented individuals.”
■ Babirra Music Theatre presented a beautiful production of My Fair Lady at the new, well-appointed venue The Round , in Nunawading
How lucky audiences are to see such highquality musical theatre in the suburbs.
From the start of the Overture, the sonorous, wonderful sounds of Marty Macaulay's orchestra became a major player in the storytelling.
Alan Burrows’s expert direction ensured his audiences were constantly entertained, with never a dull moment on stage in this seamlessly flowing production.
Adapted from George Bernard Shaw’s play and Gabriel Pascal’s motion picture Pygmalion, the story tells of Eliza Doolittle’s transformation from cockney flower-girl to upper-class lady, under the tutelage of phonetics professor Henry Higgins
Delightful triple threat Siobhan Judge made Eliza Doolittle’s role her very own, skilfully transitioning in voice and physicality to become ‘a lady’ and charming audiences with her glorious voice.
Mark Monroe was great as Professor Higgins, impressively articulate, pompous, yet a tad vulnerable, and there was terrific power-playing dialogue between Higgins and Eliza.
Equally enjoyable in their roles were Tim Murphy as lovable linguist Colonel Pickering, who provided a welcome softer contrast to the sometime arrogant Higgins, as did Fiona Carter as caring, peace-keeping housekeeper Mrs Pearce
Eliza’s dad Alfred Doolittle was energetically portrayed by Tim Maloney, who entertained with his dynamic performance.
Patricia McCracken commanded the stage as likeable Mrs Higgins and Charley Conway splendidly portrayed Freddy. His lovely pas de deux with Yvette Lipovetsky was captivating.
Matthew Davies added an interesting story dimension as Hungarian phonetician Zoltan
The talented cast also included Ann Hubbard, Catherine Bolzonello, Garry Barcham, Steven Keane, Brent Denison, Mark Curran and Paul Ash, supported by a strong ensemble.
James Kaiser’s well-devised, polished choreography brought the stage alive with its various moods and styles.
Barry Pearce’s set design, Deryk Hartwick’s lighting, sound by Patrick Edwards, and Ely Tapp’s costumes significantly contributed to the show’s high-standard production values.
A stylish, elegant and joyful production.
Congratulations and thank you to Babirra Music Theatre.
babirra.org.au
Review by Cheryl Threadgold
Last Man Standing
■ The Last Man Standing by Barry Michael, published by New Holland Publishers, is a powerful and personal memoir from one of Australia’s most legendary boxing champions.
Former International Boxing Federation World Junior Lightweight Champion, Barry Michael shares his life story in his “tell as much as I can without getting sued” autobiography.
The Last Man Standing is an honest, behind-the-scenes look at the gritty realities of professional boxing where big money, big egos, and big careers are on the line.
●
● Tim Maloney (centre) as Alfred Doolittle, with Brent Denison at left (Harry) and Steven Keane (Jamie).
Photo: Gavin D. Andrew
Local Theatre Observations
Shows
■ Windmill Theatre: Mama Mia! Until June 21 at Bunjil Place, 2, Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren. Bookings: windmill theatre.com.au
■ The Basin Theatre Group: The War of the Worlds (A radio play by Howard E. Koch, based on the novel by H.G. Wells) Until June 22 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Pip Le Blond. Bookings: 0494 065 006
■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: The Importance of Being Earnest (by Oscar Wilde) Until June 28 at Warrandyte Mechanics’ Institute, 180 – 186 Yarra St, Warrandyte. Director: James Banger. Bookings: warrandytearts.org.au
■ Aspect Inc: Rent. June 19, 20, 21 at 7.30pm; June 21 at 2pm at 6.00pm at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Bookings: kingstonarts.com.au/ Community-Events-at-Kingston-Arts/allcommunity-events/Aspect-Theatre
■ Mountain District Musical Society (MDMS): Mary Poppins. Until June 22 at the Karralyka Theatre, Ringwood. Bookings: mdms.org.au
■ Ballarat National Theatre: Next Fall (Geoffrey Nauffts) Until June 22 at Ballarat Mechanics Institute – Minerva Space, 117119 Sturt St., Ballarat. Director: Matthew Henderson. Bookings: bnt.org.au/ news?view=article&id=749&catid=65
■ Essendon Theatre Company: Things I Know to be True (by Andrew Bovell) June 19
– 28 at the Bradshaw Street Community Theatre, Bradshaw St., West Essendon. Director: Angelo Snell. Bookings: 0406448368 or Trybooking
■ Malvern Theatre Company: Macbeth (by William Shakespeare) June 20 – July 5 at 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East. Director: David McLean. Bookings: 1300 131 552.
■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Rabbit Hole (by David Lindsay-Abaire) June 25 – July 12 at 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: John Bishop. Bookings: wlt.org.au/book-tickets
■ Wangaratta Players: Rumours (by Neil Simon) June 27 – July 6 at Stage Door Theatre, 4D Evans St., Wangaratta. Director: Steve Thornycroft and Leanne Kelly. Bookings: Trybooking.
■ MLOC Productions: The Pirate Queen (Boublil and Schönberg) July 1 – 19 at the Frankston Arts Centre, Davey St., Frankston. Director: Chris Ryan; Musical Director: Matthew Pines.
■ Theatrical: Legally Blonde July 12-27 at the National Theatre, St Kilda. Director: Aimee Forrest; Musical Director: Kent Ross; Choreographer: Maggie Lynch, Bookings: booktickets.com.au
■ Fab Nobs Theatre: Zombie Prom - The Atomic Edition. July 11 – 20 at Fab Nobs Theatre, 33 Industry Place, Bayswater. Director: Maeghan McKenzie; Choreographer: Dean Robinson; Musical Director: Sally McKenzie. fabnobstheatre.com.au
■ CPP Community Theatre: Seussical Jr. July 11, 12, 15, 17, 18 at 7.30pm; July 12,19 2pm; July 13 5pm at Boronia K-12 College, Performing Arts Centre, Albert Ave., Boronia (park at Rangeview Rd. end). Director/Musical Director: Helen Taylor; Associate Director: Fiona Rosel. Bookings: cppcommunitytheatre.com.au/
■ Encore Theatre: Agatha Crispie (by Cenarth Fox) July 18 – 27 at the Clayton Theatrette, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: David Dodd. Bookings: Trybooking.
■ Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria (GSOV): The Mikado July 17 – 20 at The Alexander Theatre, Monash University, Clayton. Bookings: gsov.org.au
Cheryl Threadgold
Auditions
■ Essendon Community Theatre: Cosi (by Louis Nowra) June 21 at 7pm, June 21 at 11am, June 22 at 10am. Callbacks June 24 at the Bradshaw Street Community Hall, Bradshaw St., Essendon. Director: Rosalin Shafik-Eid. Further details: essendontheatrecompany.com.au/auditions
Williamstown Little Theatre: The Hollow Crown (by John Barton) June 29 at 1.00pm and June 30 at 7.30pm at 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Peter Newling. Audition bookings: www.wlt.org.au/book-tickets Cheryl Threadgold
Thrones The Musical Parody
■ Thrones! The Musical Parody is playing until June 21 at St Kilda’s Alex Theatre, following smash hit seasons at the Sydney Opera House and Edinburgh Fringe.
The production has been created by the globally acclaimed comedy ensemble Baby Wants Candy, that launched the careers of Saturday Night Live’s Aidy Bryant and Silicon Valley’s Thomas Middleditch
House of the Dragon fans can relive the original, blockbuster TV show in an all-out parody that crams eight seasons of Game of Thrones into 90 minutes. Apart from the ending which has been rewritten to full glory, complete with a catchy tune titled ‘Ending That You Want’.
The hilarious cast sing and dance their way through their own warped idea of Westeros, with unique versions of plots and twists, and a side splitting original score featuring highlights from Cast member Conor Putland can’t wait to see how their adopted hometown responds to this new production of the global smash hit parody.
“I’m such a huge fan of the series. The audience responses are so fun. GoT diehards will be able to relive all their favourite moments in hilarious new ways, with Jon Snow battling White Walkers, a red wedding re-enactment (to a song called Stabbin’!), all the forbidden desires of Cersei and Jamie and so much more. Even if you’ve never seen the series, it’s still a night of non-stop entertainment,” says Conor.
The cast includes Kelsey Halge (Annette Hargrove in Cruel Intentions, Nicola and female swing in Kinky Boots- Green Room Award Production of the Year 2024), Belinda Jenkin (Friends! The Musical Parody Australian Tour, Love Actually? The Musical Parody), Conor Putland (Grease The Musical Australian Tour, Joey in Friends! The Musical Parody), Crystal Hegedis (Mrs Caldwell in Cruel Intentions, Brooke Wyndham in Legally Blonde), Joseph Lizacic (Don in Kinky Boots), Asher GriffithJones (Stranger Juliet), Callum O'Malley (Billy Cane in Bright Star, Harry in Kinky Boots) and Zoe Rose (Cruel Intentions).
Performance Season: Until June 21
Venue: Alex Theatre, 1/135 Fitzroy St/. St Kilda Bookings: thrones.com.au
Cheryl Threadgold
Harry Potter
■ When Harry Potter’s Muggle uncle declared, “There’s no such thing as magic,” he clearly never had the pleasure of experiencing the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra live.
Because pure magic is the only way to describe MSO’s performance of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone in Concert.
Under the flawless direction of conductor Vanessa Scammell, the orchestra brought John Williams’s iconic score to vibrant, emotional life.
Experiencing a live orchestral performance in sync with a film is nothing short of extraordinary—it reminds us just how much music shapes our emotional connection to cinema.
Fear, delight, anticipation, sadness—every feeling is amplified, coloured, and deepened by the score. And yet, we so often forget it's even there.
What stood out most was the remarkable precision required by the conductor to follow the actor’s cues and on-screen script.
Typically it's the conductor who leads and co-ordinates the entire performance, including any onstage performers, as in opera.
Here, that dynamic is reversed. Scammell masterfully tracks dozens of cues—one standout being the moment Harry removes his invisibility cloak - the mood music is suddenly interrupted by chime-like sounds, mirroring the cloak’s fall and enhancing the scene’s magical, ethereal atmosphere.
Whether you're a lifelong Potter fan or completely new to the wizarding world, this nextlevel cinematic experience is bound to leave you spellbound.
From the delicate celesta and sweeping strings to bold brass and mysterious woodwinds, the orchestra gave depth and drama to every magical moment.
The music danced between light and dark, whimsy and danger, just as the story does.
Events like this serve more than just entertainment—they offer an incredible gateway to orchestral music for younger audiences and reconnect long-time concertgoers with the timeless power of a live score.
It was heartening to see Hamer Hall filled with fans proudly wearing their house colours— from Gryffindor to Slytherin.
Unsurprisingly, the season sold out quickly. Look out for future film-and-orchestra performances at www.mso.com.au
Review by Beth Klein
Riviera Revenge
■ Set in Nice, on the dazzling Côte d’Azur, Riviera Revenge is a light-hearted French farce rom-com.
Retired army general Francois (André Dussollier) is content that after three children, four grandchildren, and 50 years of marriage, he and his wife Annie (Sabine Azéma) remain devoted to one another.
That is, until he finds a collection of love letters while tidying his attic.
The letters written by Annie to a secret lover reveal an old affair.
The revelation upends Francois’ previously well-ordered world.
Annie dismisses Francois’ concerns in typical French free-spirited fashion, stating that the affair was over decades ago and that her husband is being ridiculous even to mention the letters.
Even worse, she tells him that she thought he must also have had a few affairs and is shocked that he states he has not.
Unplacated, Francois is determined to track down Annie’s former lover.
When Francois discovers that Annie’s lover is none other than their close friend Boris (Thierry Lhermitte), rage, hurt pride, and revenge are on the cards.
He sets out to confront Boris and challenge him to a fight.
Annie tags along on the caper, determined not to let Francois make too much of a fool of himself.
Azéma is terrific as Annie
She initially goes along with her humorously outraged husband, only to realise she must make a choice: to rekindle her earlier romantic fling or stay with the partner she has made a life with.
This charming, warm-hearted romp is funny and moving in equal measure.
It is refreshing that, despite the main characters being all retirees in their 60s, writer and director Ivan Calbérac depicts their romantic entanglements as vibrant and ageless.
In Australian cinemas June 26.
Review by Kathryn Keeble
The Wrong Gods
■ What do we worship and what happens if beliefs clash with progress?
That’s an issue explored in the latest Melbourne Theatre Company/Belvoir St drama, The Wrong Gods, a new play by S. Shakthidharan.
Set in a remote Indian valley, we meet Mother Nirmala (Nadie Kammallaweera) and daughter Isha (Radhika Mudaliyar).
Nirmala is a traditional rural woman whose gods are those responsible for the natural world. But Isha is part of an educated modern generation who wants to be a scientist.
Immediately we see the clash of the ancient versus the modern.
Audiences see the seductive influence of commercialism in the form of a hydro dam that will be a huge success for a multinational corporation, but its eventual effect will decimate the life of Nirmala’s village and those like it.
Then Lakshmi (Vaishnavi Suryaprakash) from the multinational enters the picture with a tempting vision of how the village can prosper and make the new scheme work for it.
Unsurprisingly, Nirmala refers to Lakshmi as the devil, and the stage is set for several confrontations.
Nirmala becomes a protestor against the scheme, assisted by Devi (Manali Datar), as Isha has left to follow her dream of becoming a scientist, eventually working for Lakshmi’s corporation.
The play shows not just the clash of the old and the new, but also the changing dynamics of the relationships between all four women, with an ending that acknowledges the inevitable, but brings mother and daughter closer again.
It’s a fascinating journey, and to have a play where the only roles are four strong females is a delight.
Co-directed by the author and Hannah Goodwin, this is a strongly written drama that makes us question the ongoing battle between the environment, multinational desecration, and the people caught in the middle.
The Wrong Gods runs at the Fairfax Studio, Arts Centre Melbourne until July 12. Tickets can be booked at mtc.com.au
Julie Houghton
More Auditions
■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group: Marian, or the true tale of Robin Hood (by Adam Szymkowicz) June 18 at the Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman St., Strathmore. Director: Brian Edmond. Audition enquiries: bedled@hotmail.com or call 0417 694 567
■ Western Arts Theatre: The Drowsy Chaperone. June 23, 26, 28 at the Essendon Baptist Church, 134 Buckley St, Essendon. Booking: trybooking.com/events/landing/ 1412759.
Cheryl Threadgold
Sarah Snook wins
■ The Picture of Dorian Gray, Sydney Theatre Company’s genre-defying theatrical event, has taken home Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play for Sarah Snook, and Best Costume Design of a Play for Marg Horwell at the 78th Tony Awards in New York City
The Tony Awards, one of the highest honours in American theatre, celebrate outstanding achievements across Broadway productions. The Picture of Dorian Gray was adapted and directed by Kip Williams, and powered by Snook’s stage presence.
● ● Thrones! The Musical Parody Cast
Photo: Nicole Cleary
● ● ● ● Radhika Mudaliyar and Nadie Kammallaweera
Photo: Brett Boardman
CATO THE WISE
Maxwell Newton
★Espresso Cinema is a series of fresh, new and acclaimed Italian films, from the Venice Film Festival and beyond, providing a hit of Italian Cinema across Australia this winter. With an Australian premiere screening each month (June – August), this Sunday evening event series returns to Melbourne (Cinema Nova). The season starts with an Opening Night event on June 29, with a screening of Paola Randi’s comedy from the Venice Film Festival, The Story of Frank and Nina , with a complimentary Campariand Soda on arrival.
★Long-time 3AW listeners will remember the names of Veronica and Bob Beer of East Bentleigh. Veronica was a frequent talkback caller to the Nightline and Overnighters program, to recite her poems. Veronica died last week at age 97. Bob had predceased her.
★Be among the first to experi ence the Second World War Memorial Concert in the making - a moving tribute marking 80 years since the end of the World War II. Chris Latham, artist in residence at the Australian War Memorial, will share the creative journey behind this powerful commemorative performance, offering insights into the stories, inspiration and musical choices that bring wartime history to life. Enjoy excerpts from both historic wartime compositions and new works commissioned especially for this event, and take part in shaping the final concert by sharing your feedback before its national premiere in Canberra on August 15. The event at the Melbourne Shrine Auditorium will be from 2.30pm-4.30pm on Sunday, June 22. $10. $10
★The Ivalda Masonic Centre celebrated its Centenary with a Grand Re-Opening on Thursday May 29, Re-Dedication of both Lodge Rooms on Saturday May 31, and a Community Open Day and Sausage Sizzle on Sunday June 1. Some 125 members and guests attended each of the three events. The newly-named Anthony Bucca Hall was close to capacity. A $120,000 cheque was presented to the Good Samaritan Inn which is a new local shelter for women and children fleeing domestic violence. The Freemasons Foundation generously contributed $96,000 towards the total which recognised the collaboration that characterised the charitable efforts.
★Hobsons Bay City Council announces that nominations are now open for the 2025 Hobsons Bay Business Excellence Awards.
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
★Heide Museum of Modern Art has announced Man Ray and Max Dupain, a landmark exhibition that brings into dialogue the contemporaneous photographs of renowned American-born artist Man Ray (1890–1976) and eminent Australian photographer Max Dupain (1911–1992). Presented from August 6 to November 9, this is the first major Australian exhibition to consider these two influential 20th-century photographers side by side.
★
Boxer Harry Garside is leading a national call to action about mental health. “I nearly relapsed after the Olympics. I was fighting an invisible opponent every day,” Garside said. Harry is teaming up with Jack Davis , a Melbourne man who has lost four loved ones, including his partner Elle to suicide. Together, they are pushing to raise $100,007.
★The Veil is a major new exhibition at Buxton Contemporary featuring artists Hayley Millar Baker, Hannah Gartside, Aneta Grzeszykowska, Glenda Nicholls, Lisa Waup and Lena Yarinkura, running from June 27 to November 1. The exhibition offers a deep exploration into identity, memory and cultural resilience. Through new commissions, acquisitions and recent works, each artist journeys into the realm of the spiritual, exposing otherworldly experiences that are central to our existence yet often concealed.
★The Classic 100 In Concert is being staged at Hamer Hall on Froday and Saturday, June 20 and 21. Conducted by Benjamin Northey , hosted by Megan Burslem and Jeremy Fernandez, and presented in association with ABC Classic, the piano countdown in concert features Bartsch, Beethoven, Chopin, Gershwin, Hisaishi, Kats-Chernin, Rachmaninov and Tchaikovsky. Artists include Andrea Lam, Simon Tedeschi, Dong Jun 'DJ' Ha, Aura Go, Elena Kats-Chernin, Tamara Anna Cislowska, Nat Bartsch and Konstantin Shamray
★Gariwerd/Grampians will officially become home to a new cultural destination and environmental attraction, with the Wama Foundation announcing it will open at 12 Noon on Saturday, July 5.
★Dance Network in Hoppers Crossing and Port Melbourne has been recognised with a national Ready Set Dance Studio Award , celebrating acommitment to inclusivity and inspiring early childhood dance education.
Rourke’s Reviews What’s On Dangerous Animals
Bushfire Expo underway
■ Local organisations, businesses and community groups can now apply to become a stallholder at Nillumbik Council’s Community Bushfire Expo.
Held on Sunday, October 5, at Hurstbridge Hub, the expo is a free, family-friendly event designed to help residents prepare for the bushfire season.
The Shire-wide initiative brings together residents, emergency services, community groups, and local businesses to build awareness and resilience ahead of bushfire season.
It also offers a valuable opportunity for stallholders to connect with a broad local audience, showcase their expertise in bushfire safety and preparedness, and promote their services to an engaged and relevant audience.
By taking part, exhibitors support a vital annual event that fosters longterm bushfire education and strengthens partnerships across Nillumbik. Expressions of Interest for stallholders are now open and will close on Sunday, July 12. An EOI does not guarantee you a stall on the day. Successful stallholders will be informed soon after the EOI close date.
Stallholders with a focus on bushfire safety, emergency management or community wellbeing are encouraged to apply, along with food vendors and local businesses who can contribute to the family friendly atmosphere on the day.
Nillumbik Mayor Cr John Dumaresq said the expo provides an opportunity to bring the community together.
“The Community Bushfire Expo isn’t just about information – it’s about empowering our community and sharing knowledge, building resilience, and preparing for bushfire season,” Cr Dumaresq said.
“By participating as a stallholder, you’re not just showcasing your services, you’re playing a role in protecting our community.”
There is no cost for a stall.
Ross Wilson at Eildon
■ Ross Wilson’s 50 Years of Hits Tour will now be heading to Eildon on Sunday, July 27, to perform live at the newest local venue, Pixies At The Billabong
It has been 60 years since his first local Melbourne hit single Louie Louie by his first band The Pink Finks
Wilson and his band The Peaceniks continue touring relentlessly to celebrate over 50 Years of Hits including all the Daddy Cool and Mondo Rock favourites you’d expect along with the latest offering from an almost six-decade career, tracks from his latest EP on Bloodlines Records She’s Stuck On Facebook All The Time, and everything in between.
Olivia and Karen
■ Ella’s Music Club presents Olivia and Karen at the Royal Brighton Yacht Club at 8.30pm on Saturday, July 12.
253 Esplanade, Brighton Jacqui Hamilton and Susie King present the best of Olivia Newton John and Karen Carpenter songs at Ella's Music Club
Tickets: Reserved Seating $50
■ (MA). 98 minutes. Now showing in cinemas. A model of smart, efficient filmmaking, this taut, nasty thriller makes for compelling viewing, coming from an Aussie film-maker who carefully chooses his projects, but someone horror fans wish would be a little more prolific.
Hassie Harrison stars as Zephyr, an American tourist who has fallen in love with Australia’s ocean waves.
A dedicated surfer, Zephyr is a loner, moving from place to place, and enjoying everything on her own terms.
This singular journey is disrupted when she bumps into city guy Moses (Josh Heuston), who is need of a jump start.
This meeting leads to a one night stand, but a connection definitely happens between the two.
When Zephyr decides to quietly leave to catch the early waves, she encounters Tucker (Jai Courtney), who runs a shark dive business.
Soon after, Zephyr will be fighting for her life, as Tucker has a very dark side, one that involves an unsettling obsession with the underwater beasts.
Dangerous Animals works so well because all the ingredients come together beautifully.
Nick Lepard’s script makes for a solid foundation, combining multiple genres with a gallery of characters who are given just enough depth to make audiences care about what is going on.
Intelligently building on this intriguing mix is Sean Byrne, who directs with skill, precision and flair, knowing exactly when to move from horror to humour to drama.
Byrne also knows when to be graphic, and when to rely on things like sound design, music and performance.
Good casting is also a major factor in the film’s success. Harrison (Southbound, Yellowstone TV series) makes for a believably resourceful lead, while the chemistry between her and Heuston is convincing, with the duo making for a charming couple.
Other supporting players also get the chance to leave an impression.
The big surprise is Courtney, who makes the absolute most of the role given to him, and it is definitely the performance of his career.
It is amusing too how he is made to look like a beefier version of Richard Dreyfuss from Jaws
I’ve never been a fan of Courtney, but this might be a true turning point for the actor.
Technically the film is first-rate, with terrific cinematography by Shelley Farthing-Dawe (In Vitro, Boy Swallows Universe), a tremendously effective score by Michael Yezerski (Blindspotting, The Vigil), and pinpoint editing by Kasra Rassoulzadegan (The Royal Hotel). Even the CGI effects, while sometimes uneven, are better than expected.
Those craving non-stop carnage will be disappointed in Dangerous Animals, but those wanting a little
bit more to their horror will find a lot to love here.
At the helm is Byrne, who once more shows what an amazing talent he is, and one just hopes we don’t have to wait another decade before he makes his next film.
For those who haven’t seen Byrne’s previous work, please track down his short film Advantage (2007), and his two other features, The Loved Ones (2009) and The Devil’s Candy (2015).
Wick: Ballerina
■ (MA). 125 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.
Set between John Wick 3 and 4 , this attempt to create a spin-off from the hugely successful series struggles to find its own energy and identity, resulting in a routine, oddly dull action movie that never reaches the heights of the Wick films.
Trained Nikita style as an assassin, Eve (Ana de Armas) uses her abilities to exact revenge on Chancellor (a sleepwalking Gabriel Byrne), who killed her father when she was a child.
Helped by Winston (Ian McShane), Eve gets closer to her target, leaving a trail of bodies behind her.
Shot in 2022, Ballerina went through extensive reshoots with Chad Stahelski (who directed the Wick films) in 2024, who took over from Len Wiseman (the Underworld movies), whose work is bland and lead-footed.
The resultant mishmash is utterly forgettable, not helped by a bloated running time that is thirty minutes too long.
After such a long wait, Ballerina leaves the memory pretty quickly.
RATING - **
Aaron Rourke
In Memory of
Aaron Rourke
■ Jill Perryman is one of the ‘legends of the stage’ in Australia. Jill worked mainly for the J.C. Williamson organisation and performed in musicals for many years as well as working as an actress in films and television.
Jill Perryman was born in Melbourne in 1933. Jill was born into a theatrical family, her mother Dorothy understudied Gladys Moncrieff and her father Bill Perryman was principal tenor with J.C. Williamson's
Jill told me in a radio interview that she actually made her stage debut at the age of two in 1936 when she wandered onto the stage during a performance of The Whitehorse Inn wearing a nappy and looking for her mother.
She got a round of applause from the audience and after that Jill was included in the show along with her sister Diana
When Wirth's Circus toured the production around Queensland the family were ‘on the road’ and travelled for about 10,000 miles together performing in a circus tent when there was no theatre available.
The costume that Jill wore as ‘the goat girl’ in The Whitehorse Inn is preserved at the Victorian Arts Museum
During the war years Jill sang on a radio talent quest and the family were delighted when she won 30 bob's worth of groceries.
In 1953 she was working in the chorus of Call Me Madam and understudying the leading lady, Evie Hayes
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
Whatever Happened To ... Jill Perryman
By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM
Jill appeared in many shows during the 1950s which included Carnival, Can Can, The Pajama Game and Paint Your Wagon (which she often says was her favourite).
In 1959 Jill married Kevan Johnston who was a dancer and choreographer. They had two children Tod and Trudy.
Reg Gorman recalls seeing a ‘magic moment’ at the Phillip Street Theatre in Sydney in the early 1960s when Jill and her sister Diana did a sketch as ‘two ladies of theatre’.
During the sketch Diana turned to Jill and said, "What's left for us Jill ?" - and then they went into a very tasteful burlesque style ‘strip routine’ which Reg said was absolutely hilarious.
In 1965 Jill read in the paper that she was going to play the lead role of Fanny Brice in Funny Girl and then she got a phone call congratulating her on getting her first leading role.
At that stage Jill didn't have anyone managing her and after that incident she got an agent.
Evie Hayes played her mother in Funny Girl.
Jill's musicals included Side By Side By Sondheim, Annie, Hello Dolly and The Boy From Oz
Her dramatic stage productions included Summer Of The Seventeenth Doll and Death Of ASalesman.
Over the years Jill has guest starred in television series such as Homicide, Bellbird, A Country Practice, The Flying Doctors and Changi Her film roles include Clowning Around and Love in Limbo
Jill has been awarded the AM and the MBE. At the 2011 Helpmann Awards, Jill Perryman received the JC Williamson Award, for her outstanding contribution to the Australian live performance industry along with Nancye Hayes and Toni Lamond
Kevin Trask
Kevin can be heard on 3AWThe Time Tunnel - Remember WhenSundays at 10.10pm with Simon Owens and Andrew McLaren And on 96.5 FM
That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon. www.innerfm.org.au
HERMANNSBURG SCHOOL OF ART AT BENALLA
Simpson Gallery Ntaria and beyond
The Hermannsburg School of Art Ntaria is the home of Western Arremte people in the Northern Territory and includes Hermannsburg, a small town on the banks of the Finke Rive and at the foot of Mount Hermannsburg, 100 kilometres west of Mparntwe (Alice Springs).
The landscape features rugged mountains, deep gorges and dry plains, subject to harsh droughts and high temperatures.
Red desert, stunted trees and spinifex are flanked by the McDonnell, Krichauff and Gosse ranges.
The Hermannsburg School of Art developed in the 1950s as a distinctive style characterised by watercolours painted in the traditional techniques, depicting the striking landscape and homeland of the Arrernte people.
Its most famous painter, and founder , was Albert Namatjira.
The new technique of realistic water-colour painting that Albert adopted was different from the iconographic or abstract approaches used by other Arremte artists of the time
His success had a profound influence on his community and descendants, many of whom continue to paint watercolour.
This exhibition introduces six new Ntaria watercolours that have come into Benalla Art Gallery Collection, a generous gift by Peter and Wendy Fishley
Completing these acquisitions are existing Ntaria works from the Collection and loan from Shepparton Exhibition closes July 13.
Benalla Art Gallery
Abbotsford
Chroma by Convent Made
This winter, St Heliers Street Gallery celebrates a range of artworks that embody the creativity, passion, and artistic expression that thrive in this precinct through Chroma by Convent Made
Join in this visual journey as the works are highlighted the rich artistic community that calls Abbotsford Convent home.
Take a glimpse into what’s been happening behind the scenes of the
The Arts
studios upstairs and immerse yourself in the stories and visions they bring to life - full of personality, experimentation, and a little Convent magic
Exhibition opens June 18 and closes July 13.
★
Lost in Translation Exhibition
As we continue exploring the intricacies of the of human connection, you’re invited to Lost in Translation.
Platform Presents this next twoday exhibition at the Convent
This group show delves into the nuances of co communication what gets said, what’s left unsaid, and everything in between.
Through visual art, interactive installations and shared moments, Lost in Translation invites audiences to reflect in the beauty, vision and transformation that lives in miscommunication and interpretation.
Come together to celebrate the messy, mysterious ways we connect – across language, silence, distance and emotions.
This is et across six stunning gallery spaces.
Exhibition closes June 23. The Store. Abbotsford Convent St Heliers Street Gallery 1 St Heliers St, Abbotsford.
Mixed media
Artful alliance – Alison Fabiny and Vicki Singleton
Photographer Alison Fabiny and mixed media artist Vicki Singleton invite you into a breathtaking visual dialogue between detail and texture, stillness ansd vibrancy.
Alison’s floral portrait photography, some inspired by the quiet elegance Japanese wabi-sabi captures fleeting botanical moments with extraordinary precision and depth.
Her masterful use of natural and strobe lighting, combined with thoughtful composition, elevates each flower into something transcendent, inviting viewers to pause, lean in, and truly see. Her work is not just about beauty, but about presence.
In perfect harmony, Vicki’s richly textured mixed media and acrylic artworks burst with life and colour, drawing from the rhythms and patterns of the natural world.
Each piece is a layered tactile experience-alive with intuition, joy, and emotional depth.
Her vibrant works have earned local acclaim and can be found in her studio at Burrinja Cultural Centre
Together, Alison and Vicki create an exhibition that encourages you to slow down, look closer, and rediscover the wonder in the details that often go unnoticed.
Exhibition closes June 29.
Burrinja Cultural Centre
351 Glenfern Rd, Upwey
- Peter Kemp
The Count’s
■ This Winter, The Count’s presents Fran Swinn and James Sherlock, Nina Ferro, Steve Sedegreen and more Monash University Performing Arts Centres announcse the Live at The Count’s winter program, running throughout July and August. Curated by Chelsea Wilson, the series showcases seven standout Wednesday-night performances, spanning vintage swing, gypsy jazz, global fusion, bebop and soul.
Chelsea recently curated the inaugural Big Jazz Day Out, a one day jazz festival.
■ The mercurial Rod Stewart suddenly cancelled an evening residency in Vegas due to a medical problem best described as 'feeling crook'. Poor Rod has been having health problems of recent times, yet insists he can still sprint 100 metres in 18 seconds. Rod, aged 80, has a full book of engagements and just loves to entertain.
Britanny back in business
■ Brittany Higgins has announced her return to the work force and her husband is going along for the journey. They have signed on as a directors of Sydney based communications agency, Third Hemisphere, who are billed as an agency for change.
Birthday girl turns 50
■ The still very beautiful Angelina Jolie celebrated her half century on June 4 with a quiet get together with her six children, but no sign of one-time spouse Brad Pitt. Prior to her family meeting Angelina attended the Cannes Film Festival and issued a statement claiming she was more 'grounded than ever'.
Between the lines
■ It could be my imagination but worth watching that Nine Network could be on cusp of dropping real bombshells of investigative news. Nine has formed a new Current Affairs /Investigative crew headed by Kirsty Thompson who will juggle the new post plus 60 Minutes. This is no wall papering, it's dedicated to make Nine #1for breaking News. Ten intends replacing The Panel with a hard- hitting Investigative show anchored by Denham Hitchcock, ex-Seven's 'Spotlight'.
Ken Jones OAM
and well
on-air work entertaining listeners, and helping those in need.
Rod Stewart unwell
■ Much celebrations
worthy of every accolade goes to Ken James of community radio, Phoenix FM Bendigo. Ken received an OAM in the King's Birthday Honours for his tireless
John O’Keefe
With John O’Keefe
● ● ● ● Jill Perryman in an early career performance
● ● ● Rod Stewart
Today’s Menu
Charcuterie
Tapas Bar Home-Made Desserts
Plus A Variety of Weekly Specials
Great Range of Cocktails and Mocktails Available.
Teas and Coffees
Don’t forget our Famous Devonshire Tea
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
Across Observer Melbourne Lovatts Crossword No 24
1. Visionaries
6. Man of Steel hero
11. Tibia
15. Gangster's lieutenants
20. Clumsy lout
21. Tall Kenyan tribe
22. The Boston ... Party
23. Most substantial
24. Sermonises
25. State publicly
27. Causing (havoc)
28. Father (children)
29. Elevate
31. Ireland (poetic)
32. Pester
36. Kenya's capital
37. Gods
38. Prepared (3,3)
41. Takes note of
44. Cymbals sound
45. Dutch centre of govt, The ...
48. Non-professional
49. Mideast shipping passage (3,3)
52. Pushing for
56. Go in front of
57. Dessert, ... split
58. Aerial
61. Culminate in (4,2)
62. California's San ... Fault
63. Vestments
64. Dame Nellie ...
65. Performs service for
66. Joins forces (5,2)
67. Odd bod
71. Canal boat
73. Of sound system
75. Cloudiest
80. Battery fluid
82. Elbowing
83. The T of PTO
85. Vibrated
86. Made reparation
88. Colonial realm
90. Acorn-gathering mammal
91. Dot/dash code
93. Agitated
94. Misbehaved (6,2)
95. Yummiest
96. Prime example
97. A single occasion
99. Unicorn spike
100. Snake
104. Upper leg
105. Tycoon
106. Well done!
107. Freeloaders
111. Spooky
113. UAE sheikhdom, ... Dhabi
114. Estimated touchdown time (1,1,1)
115. Computer/phone link
117. Part of sentence
118. Ate out
121. Brazil's ... Janeiro (3,2)
122. Wood-shaping machine
125. Gambol
126. Clock face
127. Give up (territory)
129. Xmas period
131. Receive
132. Hansel's partner
135. Coober Pedy gem
136. Sticks (to)
139. Peruse
140. International charity club
144. Bravery badge
145. Sultan's wives
146. Cost
147. Grumble
148. Curtly
AcrossDownDown
149. Tuscany is there
150. Kinder
152. Not heavy
154. Surrenders
157. Small version
158. Letter
162. Spinster relative, maiden ...
163. Academy Awards 166. Bathe
167. Assents with head 169. Ayatollah's land 171. Capital of Peru 172. Main Japanese island 173. Rule
175. Raising agent 176. Lead
179. US president, Ronald ... 180. Bird of prey 182. And so forth 183. Facial twitch 184. Encouraged, ... on 186. Half-breeds
189. Scoffs
190. Shrub fence
191. Panic
192. Insists
196. Tofu bean
197. Scythes
198. Monarch's rod
199. Holding up 201. Paraffin oil
202. Stupidly
203. Taunted
204. Carve in stone
205. Inserts
208. Twins zodiac sign
210. Cairo native
211. Teenage heart-throb
212. Disorganised person
213. Tin containers
215. Dodges
219. Paris underground
221. Stop! (nautical)
223. Spear vegetable
227. Robbers
228. Pilot
230. Eighth, ..., tenth
231. Army chaplain
232. Plays at, ... in 233. Nit-picker
234. Fill with blood
238. Synagogue scholars
239. N African country
240. Actress, ... Bullock
243. Changes
246. Fettered
247. Plough (into)
250. Trivial
251. Concur
253. Desists
256. Supervise
257. Wind (of river)
258. Absorb
262. Speed measurement
263. Spoon
266. Rodents
268. Intermediary
269. Goes faster than
270. Wounds
271. Judgments
272. Commercials
273. Kilt
274. Prosecute
275. Adds sugar to
276. Discourtesy
277. Gauged
278. Matchless
1. Disband (troops)
2. Antelope
3. Corn
4. Singer, Diana ...
5. Lampooning comedy
7. Supposition
8. Stripy-tailed US animals
9. Film & Don McLean hit, ... Pie
10. Space agency
11. Depletes
12. Mercenary (5,3)
13. Smooching
14. Formal address
15. Chopping
16. Merit
17. Swimming stroke
18. Servants
19. Dusk to dawn
24. Sheep enclosures
26. Net fabric
30. Very annoyed
33. Yearly book of events
34. US folk singer, Woody ...
35. Stalk food
38. Of heart/lung exercises
39. More fortunate
40. Constant
42. Periods of time
43. Mythical vampire
46. Born Free writer, Joy ...
47. As far as (2,2)
49. Cheese on toast, Welsh ...
50. Blackball
51. London district (4,3)
53. Rush about angrily
54. Lazed
55. Allure
59. Drip shape
60. Most unpleasant
67. Follow-up movies
68. Train coach
69. Tussle
70. Personal reminiscence
72. Deep love
74. Travelling worker
76. Order
77. Made whole
78. Fleshy ear tissue (3,4)
79. Bank clerks
81. Reprimanded severely
84. Nursing sanatorium (4-4)
87. Tinted sun visor
89. Naphthalene pellet
91. Muttered
92. Close watch (5,3)
98. Neglect
101. Early anaesthetic
102. Sow
103. Acupuncture spike
108. Current unit
109. Skin transplant
110. Speedster
112. Rearousal
116. Adapting to stage play
119. Speak off the cuff
120. Outshining
123. Flying craft
124. Newspaper titles
128. Harmed
130. Power-grabber
132. Nomad
133. Banishment
134. Correct (text)
137. Indian group of dialects
138. Bake (meat)
141. Skips
142. Ethiopia's Addis ...
143. Spinning toys (2-3)
151. Distributed
153. Stashes
155. Elephant poacher's cache
156. Cutting beam
159. Mentally gearing (up)
160. Pottery fragments
161. Discarded rubbish carelessly
164. Wear by rubbing
165. Reply
168. Biased (3-5)
170. Famed gangster (2,6)
173. Stayed
174. Lacking ability
177. Lecturers
178. Confined (6,2)
181. Congregate
185. Lessening in intensity (6,2)
186. Siberian dogs
187. Sanctified
188. Trainee doctors
193. Profiteering ticket seller
194. Swaying on heels
195. Common expressions
200. Surrounding
201. Capsize (4,4)
206. Instants
207. Suffocate
208. Clasped
209. Chats
211. Map pressure lines
214. Levee bank sack
216. Include
217. Income cheats, tax ...
218. Equatorial region, The ...
220. Wood joint projection
222. Tot up (3,2)
224. Humiliated
225. Strolling
226. Fruitless
229. Back section
232. Numbered cubes
235. Indescribable
236. Possessed
237. Articles of clothing
241. Turned aside
242. Scorn
244. Normally (2,1,4)
245. Toy bears
248. Trophies
249. Triumphant laugh (2,2)
251. Upper limbs
252. Regain
253. Pitches tent
254. Grand Slam tennis champ, .. Agassi
255. Take (revenge)
259. Internal
260. Summon up
261. Cricket matches
262. Cry in pain
264. Inquires
265. Former Italian money unit
267. Fencing sword
By Rob Foenander
Magic Melodies
■ Springvale RSL presents the Magic Melodies show on Wednessday, July 9.
Local favourites (the real but local) Paul Hogan and Susan Correll will hit the stage from 11am. after morning tea commencing at 10.30am.
Hosted by Jennifer Lee , the monthly morning show has become a must attend for the local seniors community plus a number of aged care facilities residents who regularly are there for the fun and, of course, the great songs.
Bookings on 9548 4155.
Vale Roger
■ Australian legendary bass player Roger McLachlan passed away from complications due to pancreatic cancer.
Roger played with the cream of Australian bands and musicians.
He was a regular on the local music scene where he not only was admired for his musicianship but also for his mentoring.
Whitlams, MSO
■ The Whitlams with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra storm to a third show in the first weekend of Spring, with a matinee performance at Melbourne’s Hamer Hall on Saturday, September 6.
The concert will feature the highlights of its long history of orchestral collaborations which began in 2004, says their media release.
Tickets at the Arts Centre Rob Foenander
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
Melbourne’s Art Trams return to tracks
■ Melbourne’s trams have become moving works of art once more, as the First Peoples Art Trams return to the city’s streets, launching as part of Rising
Six newly wrapped trams, each featuring powerful works by Victorian First People s artists, will traverse the city, celebrating ancestral knowledge and the vital, enduring role of women in community life.
Convened by Rising Senior Curator Kimberley Moulton (Yorta Yorta), a curatorial group of five leading First Peoples curators including Belinda Briggs (Shepparton Art Museum), Caine Muir (Museums Victoria), Gail Harradine (Koorie Heritage Trust) and Stacie Piper (Victorian Indigenous Research Centre, State Library Victoria) have shaped the 2025 program.
Together, they have selected works from private collections, major institutions and the artists' private collections that honour cultural legacy, assert presence, and carry stories across generations.
Leading this year’s launch is a tram honouring Beruk (William Barak) (Wurundjeri Woiwurrung), featuring Corroborree (Women in possum skin cloaks), an 1897 painting of deep cultural significance.
The work was returned to Victoria in 2022, acquired from Sotheby’s by the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Cor-
Crossword Solution No 24
poration , with support from the State Government. Now, instead of hanging on a gallery wall, it moves through the city—visible, powerful, and alive in public memory.
Alongside Barak’s historic work, this year’s trams showcase contemporary pieces by Kelly Koumalatsos (Wergaia, Wemba Wemba), Maree Clarke (Yorta Yorta, Wamba Wamba, Mutti Mutti, Boonwurrung), Jennifer Mullett (Gunaikurnai, Bidawal, Ngarigo), Patsy Smith (Taungurung), and a collaborative work with Elders Laurel Robinson (Yorta Yorta/Wurundjeri), Amy Briggs (Yorta Yorta), Cynthia Hardie (Yorta Yorta) and Rochelle Patten (Yorta Yorta, Wamba Wamba, Baraparapa)
Each artist brings a unique perspective—embodied with story, identity, and the enduring strength of First Nations women—that also affirms the unbroken connection to culture and Country.
Speaking to the artworks selected in 2025, Kimberley Moulton said; “It has been a privilege to bring together the First Peoples curatorial group who are deeply community connected with extensive experience in contemporary art, culture and public installation to work on art trams 2025. We selected artists that have contributed to the strong and multifaceted art history of Aboriginal Victoria and made an immense impact in their local communities and the state in their practice and in sharing their culture.”
LEADTO K L ANDREAS C ROBES E A MELBA M OBLIGES
A I R U E A TEAMSUP E M S I E S SCREWBALL BARGE R T AUDIO OBSCUREST E A R N ACID NUDGING TURN E N A E QUIVERED ATONED R E EMPIRE SQUIRREL
U L S C R R Y MORSE O N S U F L L EXCITED PLAYEDUP TASTIEST EPITOME
L A L ONCE T S R I G H R HORN E B R SERPENT THIGH MOGUL BRAVO CADGERS
T L EERIE O ABU N ETA N MODEM R A PHRASE E DINED RIODE LATHE R PRANCE
E N DIAL M CEDE R YULE E TAKE F E GRETEL W OPAL ADHERES READ M ROTARY
Y X MEDAL R I M I O U O D HAREM B O PRICE K COMPLAIN ABRUPTLY T ITALY
S L NICER V S G D S P L I LIGHT B O YIELDS N MINI
Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson
Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson
● ● Pictured (from left): Shepparton Art Museum Curator Belinda Briggs, Rising co-artistic directors Hannah Fox and Gideon Obarzanek, Yarra Trams CEO Vincent Destot, Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins.
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Ali, Rayann Altanhan, Seval Amin, Bayan Ashta, Bhupinder Singh Atay, Ali Attard, Alistair Augafaapae, Ioane Ayche, Mouhamed Banks, Denis Basbuilt Pty Ltd Beck, Dieter Bedi, Jashanpreet Behdadfar, Ali Bell, Stuart Buildqa Pty Ltd Butler-Griffiths, Jordan Robert Camilleri, Shanel Clements, Carolyn Comek, Halil Dahl, Paul Machek Davi, Vincent Duggan, Paul El Khouri, Georges El-Chami, Said El-Houli, Musa Eren, Burak Faour, Selin-Halime Feilding, Ashleigh Fneich, Ibrahim Gilbert, Luke Goodwin, Justin Goro, Lazar Green, Andrew Hajnal, Shyanne Hallinan, Patrick James Hannan, Ceallachan Ianni Hawel, Sargoon Hca Group Pty Ltd
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$13.9 mil. spend
■ South-Eastern Metropolitan MLC Michael Galea says $13.9 million in funding has been allocated for the full rebuild of Carrington Primary School’s facilities in Rowville
“It was great to visit with my colleague Mr Tarlamis, meet with principal Brett Speed, have a chat with him and see the excitement in the school community about this wonderful new project that is going to take down the old, out-of-condition buildings and replace them with a brand new learning hub and a staff and administration space as well as STEM facilities and the like,” Mr Galea told Parliament.
“It is going to be a wonderful asset for the local community as a whole, and the school is already working on proposals for how they can activate those spaces outside of school hours with the community.
“The staff, students and broader community at Carrington Primary School are all very excited to see this very important project progress with the full amount of funding as promised at the last state election and delivered in this very important state budget,” Mr Galea said.
Schools concern
■ Increasing concerns about schools maintenance have been raised in Parliament by North-Eastern Metropolitan MLC Richard Welch.
“Local school communities in Glen Waverley are growing increasingly concerned about the state of school facilities in our area,” Mr Welch said.
“I have heard from parents and teachers about leaking roofs, outdated classrooms, rusting gutters, a case where an air conditioner has fallen through a ceiling and disgusting toilets.
“This comes as the 2025–26 budget reveals that dozens of Labor’s promised school upgrades will not be delivered until after the next election, and $2.4 billion was quietly cut from public schools in the budget.
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Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, June 18 Abdo, Khalil Ahern, William Frederick Antonacci, Marco Atkinson, Reuben Azzopardi, Chloe Bahamdum, Rayan Barnett, Mathew Leigh Belvedeve-Bain, Thomas Bhandari, Karn Bonomy, Simon Bortolin, Isaac-Zayne Daniel Boskovic, Natalija Bradley, Justin Briggs, Darren Butt, Talha Calgaret, Terrence Cleary, Dylan Cole, Ashley Cole, Nathan Considine, Gavin Ashley Cornish, Bradley Crapper, Damon Cullinan, Culley Culmsee, Britanny Dehghani, Hamid Dimkopoulos, John Dockery, Thomas Dow-Gleeson, Ryan Leigh Droseropoulos, Georgios Duggan, Kelly Maree Duncan, Billy Edwardsmarks, Tegan Elizabeth Edwards-Thorpe, Wayen Elias, Yousif Sami Fiorenza, Adam Gabow, Abdiwahid Giallourakis, Constantinos Gibbs, Mitchell Giellin, John Goss, Christopher John Greaves, Brian Haddad, Mary-Anne Harper, Louise Harrison, Tyisha Chyanne Hassan, Mohamud Hastie, Justin Wade Hawkins, Shayden Herath, Jude Dhanandana Hewitt, Rachael Jade Hill, Kyland Hoare, Jonathan Holmes, Andrew Iaconis, Dominic Jeffrey, Dayle Johanson, Wayne Jondic, Jamie Kaddour, Mohamed Karkhal, Sukhwinder Katz, Mark Kheradmandi, Mohammad Kiro, Paige Kochan, Buse Krajisnik, Zoran Li, Dawei Lindo, Glen Andrew Maheshwari, Khagesh Mansour, Azimi Mappetenre, Muhammad Aleef Mascaro, Guiseppe Mazniovski, Tony Mazravi, Hadi Mccann, Tylah Jade Mclelland, Bradley Miller, Debrah Mitrovski, Jacob Lade Moloney-Salvador, Riley James Murphy-Vanbael, Tammee Louise Newman, Dylan Newton, Ashley Nicolas, Rogelio Nomikos, Nicholas Omar, Ghazi Oztas, Fatih Panozzo, Marc Patrick, Zak Prato, Tristian Procida, Adam Rellim, David Robinson, Andre Rojc, Bobby Rose, Janine Rossignoli, Brendan Said, Younes Sajjad, Muhammad Zaib Scerri, Cameron Senarath, Stephen Short, Stephen Joseph Singh, Balwinder Singh, Gurinder Singh, Yuvraj Sithole, Vongai Priscilla Skinner, Alexander Gregory Sloan, Nathan Sorzor, Abel Stoev, Stefan Suckling, Renae Suluker, Ali Temple, Jerelyn Julliana Thorpe, Colleen Tran, Eric Watson, Lester Youssaf, Kamil Zaib Sajjad, Muhammad Zayat, Roman Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, June 18 Abdelaziz, Mohamed Ahluwalia, Bikramjit Akgul Trade Pty Ltd Ali, Musaddiq
Hi-Quality Quarry Products Pty Ltd Hogan, Valda Joy Idrees, Zeeshan Ioane, Lupe Ishaac-Haldas, Marcus Jalali, Ali Jatana, Vishavjeet Singh Jones, Ethan Kalos, Nicholas Karaula, Branislav Kengarmedya Pty Ltd Khan, Naveed Ali Khodar, Gesnic Khoder, Douha Khoder, Rania Khodr, Ibrahim Kidwell, Henry Kormez, Erkan Leclercq, Maggie Lim, Li Yeng Lowe, Jordan Lowe, Mathew Robert Madden, John Mahon, Glen Malkoun, Zac Marchese, Angela Marchese, Connie Mark, Chris Matar, Jano Mccormick, Ashleigh Mcgorrery, Olivia Medya Pty Ltd Merhi, Hana Miletic, Grace Mitchell, Roxanne Mohammad, Ilyasuddin Mostafa, Moamen Musu, Pope Nadir, Muhammad Nemet, Matthew New Rise Developments Pty Ltd Newcomb, Nathan Nguyen, Thi Niazmand, Esmael Nomrad, Yousif Nunez, Richard Ozer, Sedat Ozzie Homes Building & Construction Pty Palermo, Ricky Peart, Timothy Pizzo, Zachary Precise Projects Pty Ltd Purcell-Green, Sophie Ralph, Terrence Neville Ramsay, Corey Rathjen, Lochlan Red Homes Pty Ltd Revels, Nathaniel Leonard Riyazati, Matin Robins, Jamie Rokaya, Mahesh Ross, Markus Sarson, John Cameron Sawa, Joseph Sheppard, Adrian Kurt Sims, Larissa Smith, Brendon Soeny, Ashok Steen, Kenneth Reginald Stevens, Jamie Stoev, Stefan Striglogiannis, Bill Taylor, Brayden Tetera, Terera Thomas, Billy Trimboli, Peter Edward Trotter, James Vella, Chantelle Waseem, Abdullah Wassilieff, Melissa Frances Welsh, Tiffany West, Riley Woodhouse, Shea Zervoulias, Dimitrios Zougoulis, Anthony
“Students in Glen Waverley deserve safe, modern learning environments, not delays and broken promises.
“My question is: why has the Allan Labor Government once again overlooked schools in Glen Waverley, not just one or two selected ones but the vast majority? And when will local students finally receive the facilities and investment they deserve?”
Heide access worry
■ Access to the Heide Gallery at Bulleen is a worry for North-Eastern Metropolitan MLC Aiv Puglielli.
“Heide Museum of Modern Art is a wonderful place to visit in my region. I attend regularly,” Mr puglielli told the Legislative Council.
“The art is spectacular, and the nearby parklands are a beautiful place to explore or to picnic.
“However, right now for residents from the Heidelberg area to access the museum by foot, they are not able to saunter across the parkland to the museum; they instead have to go a long way around, which includes walking along the narrow footpath right beside the busy, sixlane Manningham Road West
“For people walking with small children or with pets, this is very close to the road, without any barrier.
“It has been raised with me by residents that it would be much quicker, safer and frankly more pleasant to walk from Heidelberg to Heide through the parklands, and this would require the building of a bridge over the river to connect the community to the museum.
“Will you consider this proposal and improve pedestrian access to the museum of modern art?” Mr Puglielli asked.
Wide readership
● ● The Local Paper Easdtern suburbs Edition covers Boroondara (north), Knox, Manningham, Maroondah, Monash and Whitehorse municipalities. In print, fortnightly.
WEEKEND’S LOCAL FOOTBALL FINAL SCORES
Amateurs
■ Victorian Amateur Football Association. Premier Men’s. Old Haileybury 10.11 (71) d Collegians 5.7 (37). Srt Bernard’s 7.12 (54) d University Blues 7.12 (54). Old Xaverians 16.15 (111) d De La Salle 8.7 (55). St Kevin’s 11.16 (82) d Old Scotch 10.11 (71). University Blacks 10.7 (67) d Old Brighton 9.10 (64).
Premier Men’s Reserves. Collegians 9.12 (66) d Old Haileybury 10.5 (65). University Blues 8.8 (56) d St Bernard’s 5.9 (39). Old Xaverians 24.19 9163) d De la salle 3.2 (20). St Kevin’s 13.8 (986) d Old Scotch 5.7 937). Old Brighton 14.12 (96) d University Blacks 3.5 (23).
Premier B Men’s. Old Geelong 8.6 (54) d Fitzroy 4.6 (30). Williamstown CYMS 9.12 (66) d Old Camberwell 7.10 (52). Caulfield Gr ammarians 14.15 (99) d Ham pton Rovers 10.5 (65). Old Melburnians 14.10 (94) d Old Carery 7.15 (57). Old Trinity 13.11 (89) d Old Ivanhoe 7.10 (52).
Premier B Men’s Reserves. Old Geelong 11.9 (75) d Fitzroy 57 (37). Williamstown CYMS 13.8 (86) d Old Camberwell 3.9 (27) . Caulfield Grammarians 15.12 (102) d Hampton Rovers 5.4 (34). Old Carey 12.5 (77) d Old Melburnians 6.11 (47). Old Ivanhoe 5.10 (40) d Old trinity 4.10 (34).
Premier C Men’s. AJAX 11.12 (78) d Marcellin 3.7 (25). Parkdale Vultures 9.10 (64) d PEGS 9.9 (63). Beaumaris 134.10 (88) d St Bedes/Mentone 9.15 (69). Glen Eira/Old McKinnon 11.6 (72) d Parksoide 9.7 (61). Mazenod 15.15 (105) d Prahran 13.4 (82).
Premier C Men’s Reserves. AJAX 8.10 (58) d MNarcellin 4.5 (29). Parkdale Vulrtures 12.3 (75) d PEGS 4.2 (26). St Bedes/Mentone 14.8 (82) d Beaumaris 8.9 (57). Glen Eira/ Old McKinnon 9.9 (63) d Parkside 8,.9 (57). Mazenod 7.15 (57) d Prahran 7.5 (47).
Division 1 Men’s. Preston Bullants 11.6 (72) d UHS-VU 6.13 (49). Elsternwick 128.14 (122) d Therry Penola 11.7 (73). Kew 20.11 (131) d Old Paradians 7.13 (55). Monash Blues 10.8 (68) d Oakleigh 8.14 (62). Ormond 10.13 (73) d Brunswick 7.5 (47).
Division 1 Men’s Reserves. Old Peninsulaq 8.9 (57) d Kew 7.12 (54). Preston Bullants 7.9 951) df UHS-VU 7.6 (48). Elsternwick 10.10 (70) d Therry Penola 5.6 (36). Oakleigh 13.11 (89) d Monash Blues 4.7 (31). Brunswick 6.8 (42) d Ormond 4.7 (31).
Division 2 Men’s. West Brunswick 11.27 (93) d Whitefriars 7.13 (55). St Mary’s Salesian 15.12 (102) d St John’s 11.10 (76). Old Yarra 19.10 (124) d Canterbury 10.9 (69). South Melbourne 11.12 (78) d MHSOB 6.15 (51). Hawthorn 11.13 (79) d Aquinas 9.6 (70).
Division 2 Men’s Reserves. Aqwuinas 24.13 (157) d Hawthorn 10.9 969). West Brunswick 6.11 (47) d Whitefriars 4.11 (35). St Mary’s Salesian 16.7 (103) d St John’s 6.6 (54). Old Yarra cobras 11.22 (88) d Canterbury 4.4 (28). MHSOB 11.6 (72) d South Melbourne 9.10 (64).
Division 3 Men’s. Richmond Central 17.13 (115) d Box Hill North 8.9 (57). Albert Park 11.13 (79) d North Brunswick 9.10 (64). La robe University 2017 (137) d Chadstone 8.9 (57). Power House 13.16 (94) d Swinburne University 2.6 (18). Wattle Park 28.24 (192) d Eley Park 9.10 (64).
Division 3 Men’s Reserves. Sunshine 13.8 (86) d Altona 8.15 (63). Caroline Springs 14.9 (93) d Spotswood 10.9 969). Hoppers Crossing 16.15 (111) d Parkside 6.11 (47). Newport 12.17 (89) d Point Cook Centrals 6.10 (46). Yarraville Seddon Eagles 13.14 (92) d Point Cook 7.10 (52). Werribee Districts 123.
Eastern
■ Eastern Football League. Premier Division Seniors. East Ringwood 216.12 (108) d Balwyn 5.8 (38). Rowville 24.16 (160) d Mitcham 3.4 (22). Noble Park 14.8 (92) d Doncaster 11.13 (79). South Croydon 11.11 (77) d Vermont 10.9 (69). Blackburn 13.8 (86) d Berwick 8.13 (61).
Division 1 Seniors. North Ringwood 13.16 (94) d Bayswater 8.6 (54). Park Orchards 13.9 (87) d Beaconsfield 13.8 (86). Boronia 12.9
(81) d Mooroolbark 7.14 (56). South Belgrave 19.16 (130) d Montrose 6.10 (46). Norwood: Bye.
Division 2 Seniors. Surrey Park 11.12 (78) d East Burwood 9.8 (72). Ringwood 910 (64) d Lilydale 6.7 (43). Templestowe 17.11 (113) d Mulgrave 13.8 (86). Wantirtna South 9.13 (67) d Croydon 8.3 (51). Waverley Blues 14.13 (97) d Heathmont 14.11 (95).
Division 3 Seniors. Donvale 13.12 (90) d The Basin 2.7 (19). Coldstream 11.11 (77) d Fairpark 6.10 (46). Upper Ferntree Gully 11.7 (73) d Knox 7.9 (5). Oakleigh District 23.16 9154) d Silvan 3.13 (31). Scoresby 14.14 (98) d Ferntree Gully 6.8 (44).
Division 4 Seniors. Chirnside Park 14.7 (91) d Bulleen Templestowe 10.16 (76). Kilsyth 12.14 (86) d Croydon North MLOC 5.6 (36). Warrandyte 11.7 (73) d Whitehorse Pioneers 10.10 (70). Forest Hill: Bye.
Essendon
■ Premier Division. Aberfeldie 13.9 (87) d Strathmore 9.11 (65). d Airport West 6.10 (46). Keilor 20.10 (130) d Essendon Doutta stars 7.14 (56. Maribyrnong Park 13.12 (90) d Greenvale 9.6 (60). Pascoe vVale 27.27 (189) d East Keilor 0.0 (0).
Division 1. Avondale Heights 10.9 (69) d Craigieburn 5.7 (37). Taylors Lakes 12.11 (83) d Hillside 11.10 (76). Moonee Valley 12.9 (81) d Oak Park 10.12 (72). Roxburgh Park 16.13 (109) d St Albans 10.10 970). West Coburg 21.12 (138) d Tullamarine 15.6 (96).
Division 2. Roxburgh Park 7.22 (64) d East Sunbury 3.2 (20). Sunbury Kangaroos 6.3 (39) d Taylors Lakes 2.2 (14). Gisborne-Kyneton United 10.9 (69) d Sunbury Lions 1.1 (7).
Division 3. Richmond central 21.18 (144) d Box Hill North 6.1 (37). Albert Park 10.12 (72) d North Brunswick 4.8 (32). La Trobe University 18.14 (122) d Chadstone 3.9 927). Power House 26.24 (180) d Swinburne University 0.3 (3). Wattle Park 22.33 (165) d Eley Park 3.2 (20).
Mornington
■ Mornington Peninsula Nepean Football Netball League. Division 1 Seniors. Rosebud 14.11 (95) d Sorrento 13.7 (85). Dromana 63 d Red Hill 8.5 (53). EdithvaleAspendale 11.13 (79) d Mornington 11.13 (79). Frankston YCW 15.6 (96) d Langwarrin 8.9 (57). Mt Eliza 19.13 (127) d Pines 59. Division 2 Seniors. Pearcedale 13.15 (93) d Bonbeach 7.8 (50). Frankston Bombers 18.17 (125) d Chelsea 10.8 (68). Devon Meadows 10.12 (72) d Crib Point 8.7 (55). Rye 14.15 (99) d Karingal 7.5 (47) Hastings 13.6 (84) d Seaford 8.11 (59). Somerville 22.8 (140) d Tyabb 10.3 (63).
Northern
■ Northern Football Netball League. Division 1 Seniors. North heidelberg 15.8 (98) d Banyule 10.13 (73). Montmorency 13.11 (89) d West Preston Lakeside 6.7 (43). South Morang 8.7 (55) d Eltham 4.13 (37). Greensborough 8.7 (55) d Bundoora 8.6 (54). Heidelberg 18.5 (113) d Hurstbridge 9.9 (63).
Division 1 Reserves. Banyule 20.12 (132) d North Heidelberg 5.4 (34). West Preston Lakeside 9.7 (61) d Montmorency 6.7 (43). Eltham 5.13 (43) d South Morang 6.1 (37). Greensborough 19.13 (127) d Bundoora 6.4 (40). Heidelberg 16.19 (115) d Hurstbridge 2.3 (15).
Division 1 Under 19.5. St Mary’s 10.9 (69) d Montmorency 9.11 (65). Eltham 21.12 (138) d Greensborough 7.12 (54). Banyule 11.7 (73) d Diamond Creek 11.5 (71). Heidelberg 18.8 (116) d Hurstbridge 4.11 (35).
Division 2 Seniors. St Mary’s 21.19 (145) d Lower Plenty 5.10 (40). Thomastown 12.6 (78) d Old Paradians 6.9 (45). Macleod 19.15 (129) d Watsonia 8.2 (50). Panton Hill 12.14 (86) d Diamond Creek 11.19 (85). Whittlesea 19.8 (122) d Northcote Park 10.8 (68).
Division 2 Reserves. St Mary’s 19.17 (131) d Lower Plenty 4.7 (31). Thomastown 6.3 (39) d Old Paradians 4.2 (26). Macleod 13.13 (91) d Watsonia 7.12 (54). Diamond Creek 24.14
(158) d Panton Hill 3.12 (30). Whittlesea 10.17 (77) d Northcote Park 6.5 (41).
Division 2 Under 19.5. South Morang d Heidelberg, forfeit. North Heidelberg 13.10 (88) d Lower Plenty 8.13 (61). Whittlesea 13.8 (86) d Mernda 8.10 (58). Laurimar 16.10 (106) d Macleod 4.6 (30).
Division 3 Seniors. Fitzroy Stars 26.20 9176) d Lalor 0.5 (5). Mernda 11.16 (82) d Heidelberg West 7.7 (49). Ivanhoe 12.10 (82) d Kilmore 7.3 (45). Reservoir 9,.7 (61) d Laurimar 11.10 (76). Bye: Epping, Kinglake, Old Eltham Collegiansd.
Division 3 Reserves. Fitzroy Stars 29.25 (199) d Lalor 5.2 (32). Mernda 9.9 963) d Heidelberg West 5.4 (34). Kilmore 9.9 963) d Ivanhoe 6.9 (45). Laurimar 22.9 9141) d Reservoir 3.2 (20). Bye: Epping, Kinglake, Old Elthasm Collegians.
Division 3 Under 19.5. Old Paradians 7.5 (47) d Eltgham 6.10 946). Kilmore 12.18 (90) d Banyule 5.4 (34). Panton Hill 15.13 (103) d Watsonia 13.13 (91). Bundoora: Bye.
Outer East
■ Outer East. Premier Division Seniors. Monbulk 15.10 (100) d Officer 2.8 (20). Healesville 13.9 (87) d Gembrook Cockatoo 11.10 (76). Wandin 19.11 (125) d Upwey Tecoma 9.9 (63). Olinda Ferny creek 16.10 (106) d Emerald 6.8 (44). Woori Yallock 8.14 (62) d Mt Evelyn 7.8 (50).
Premier Division Reserves. Officer 6.7 (43) d Monbulk 4.10 (34). Gembrook Cockatoo 14.11 (95) d Healesville 3.6 (24). Upwey Tecoma 5.12 (42) d Wandin 6.4 (40). Emerald 9.9 (63) d Olinda Ferny Creek 6.12 (48). Mt Evelyn 15.16 (106) d Woori Yallock 1.2 (8).
Division 1 Seniors. Warburton Millgrove 19.19 (133) d Yarra Glen 6.6 (42). Yea 16.13 (109) d Powelltown 9.5 (59). Pakenham 12.7 (79) d Seville 7.8 (50). Alexandra 18.7 (115) d Belgrave 15.9 (99). Yarra Junction: Bye. Division 1 Reserves. Warburton Millgrove 21.14 (140) d Yarra Glen 1.0 (6). Yea 14.20 (104) d Powelltown 21.4 (10). Seville 11.13 (79) d Pakenham 6.2 (38). Alexandra 9.12 (66) d Belgrave 5.7 (37). Yarra Junction: Bye. Premier Division Under 18 Boys. Officer 13.16 (94) d Monbulk 1.4 (10). Healesville 12.14 (86) d Gembrook Cockatoo 3.2 (20). Wandin 11.7 (73) d Upwey Tecoma 8.11 (59). Mt Evelyn 17.23 (125) d Woori Yallock 1.0 (6). Olinda Ferny Creek: Bye. Division 1 Under 18 Boys. Warburtob Millgrove 14.8 (92) d Yarra Glen 2.7 (19). Pakenham 9.11 (65) d Seville 5.8 (38). Alexandra 12.13 (85) d Yea 3.2 (20).
Women’s Division 1. Healesville 8.7 (55) d Pakenham 2.3 (15). Olinda Ferny Creek 6.3 (39) d Upwey Tecoma 3.1 (19). Mt Evelyn 21.10 (136) d Woori Yallock 0.0 (0). Belgrave: Bye.
Women’s Division 2. Wandin 6.13 (49) d Seville 1.4 (10). Warburton Wesburn 12.14 (86) d Yea 0.1 (1). Thornton Eildon 2.3 (15) drew with Emerlad 2.3 (15). Officer: Bye.
Southern
■ Division 1 Seniors. Chelktenham 15.21 (111) d Cranbourne Eagles 8.6 (54). East Brighton 16.16 (112) d Murrumbeena 11.8 (74). Dingley 16.17 (113) d Port Melbourne Clots 6.9 (45). Bentleigh 12.9 (81) d Springvale Districts 11.13 (79). St Paul’s McKinnon 10.12 (72) d Narre Warren 8.9 (57).
Division 2 Seniors. East Malvern 14.7 (91) d Doveton Doves 10.8 (68). Highett 12.12 (84) d Frankston Dolphins 6.14 (50). Hampton Park 15.15 (105) d Keysborough 11.9 (75). Mordialloc 121.9 975) d Chelsea heights 6.5 (41). Caulfield Bears 14.11 (95) d Endeavour Hills 8.8 (56).
Division 3 Seniors. Hampton 15.15 9105) d Black Rock 5.10 (40). Heatherton 8.10 (58) d Carrum Patterson Lakes 8 .8 (56). Skye 13.7 (85) d Berwick Springs 5.8 (38). St Kilda City 14.16 (100) d South Mornington 8.3 (51). Ashwood 15.9 (99) d Lyndhurst 14.9 (93)
Division 4 Seniors. Hallam 29.12 (186) d Doveton Eagles 5.6 (36). Lyndale 15.5 (105) d Moorabbin Kangaroos 10.9 (69). Narre South Saints 12.11 (83) d Clayton 9.12 (66). Dand-
enong West 19.11 (125) d South Yarra 8.10 (58).
Western
■ Division 2 Seniors. North Footscray 17.15 (117) Sunshine Heights 56 (36). Suns 11.13 (79) d Braybrook 8.12 (60). West Footscray 29.20 (194) d Tarneit 3.4 (22). Western Rams 9.10 (64) d Laverton Magpies 7,.8 (50). Wyndhamvale 19.15 (129) d Albanvaler 6.4 (40).
Goulburn Valley
■ Seniors. Echuca 16.14 (110) d Shepparton United 11.7 (73). Bernalla 16.13 (109) d Moorabbin 13.9 (87). Rochester 7.12 (54) d Seymour 7,.3 (45). Mansfield 14.14 (98)d Euroa 10.10 (70). Kyabram 14.7 (91) d Shepparton Swans 10.18 (78). Reserves. Echuca 15.10 (100) d Shepparton United 6.4 (40). Benalla 13.13 (91) d Mooroopna 3.7 (25) Seymour 12.20 (92) d Rochester 6.5 (41). Mansfield 13.10 (88) df Euroa 5.4 (34). Kyabram 6.10 (46) d Shepparton Swans 6.7 (43). Under 18. Echuca 4.10 (34) d Shepparton United 3.7 (25). Benalla 11.11 (77) d Mooroopna 2.4 (16). Rochester 9.13 (67) d Seymour 3.6 (24). Euroaq 9.8 962) d Mansfield 4.8 (32). Kyabram 12.15 (87) d Shepparton Swans 2.5 (17).
Kyabram District ■ Seniors. Murchison-Toolamba 20.12 (132) d Ubndera 2.4 (16). Nagambie 26.19 (175) d Merrigum 1.5 (11). Lancaster 10.25 (85) d Avenel 6.5 (41),. Longwood 11.8 (74) d Stanhope 11.7 (73). Shepparton East 16.10 (106) d Violet Town 6.5 (41). Rushworth 15.15 (105) d Girgarrer Tallygaroopna: Bye. Reserves. Murchison Toolamba 33.20 (218) d Undera 0.0 (0). Nagambie 11.6 (82) d Merrigum 3.3 (21). Avenel 11.14 (80) d Lancaster 3.2 (20). Stanhope 10.7 (67) d Longwood 7.5 (47). Shepparton Ea st 17.9 (111) d Violet Town 5.7 (37). Rushowrth 5.1 (31) d Girgarre. Tallygaroopna: Bye. Under 18. Murchison Toolamba 8,.16 (64) d Undera 4.1 (25). Lancaster 100 d Longwood, forfeit. Shepparton East 25.23 (173) d Violet Town 1.2 (8). Nagambie 11.4 (70) d Tigers 210.5 (65). Bye: Girgarre, Tallygaroopna.
Riddell District
■ Seniors. Melton South 14.6 (90) d Woodend Hesket 11.8 (74). Riddell 15.10(100) d Lancefield 5.5 (35). Kyneton 11.15 (81) d Romsey 7.21 (63). Macedon 14.12 (96) d Melton Centrals 5.6 (36). Diggers Rest 15.10 (100) d Wallan 8.4 (52). Reserves. Me lton South 12.8 (80) d Woodend hesket 6.6 (42). Riddell 12.4 (76) d Lancefield 3.4 (22).Romsey 21.11 (137) d Kyneton 0.4 (4). Macedon 12.9 981) d melton Centrals 3.7 (25). Wallan 13.8 (86) d Diggers Rest 2.6 (18). Under 19.5. Melton South 11.12 (78) d Woodend Hesket 7.4 -46). Riddell 16.13 (109) d Lancefield 4.3 (27). Romsey 6.5 (41) d Kyneton 5.4 (34). DiggersRest 7.10 (52) d Wallabn 5.6 (36). Bye: Gisborne Giants, Macedon.
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Beveridge hit-run
■ Wallan Highway Patrol officers are appealing for public assistance as they investigate a hit-run collision in Beveridge. It is understood a white truck was travelling on the wrong side of the road on Minton St before it collided with a white Nissan Navara utility about 2.55pm on Monday, June 9.
Police were told the male truck driver stopped at the scene and spoke to the occupants of the Nissan, then fled in the truck. The rear passenger of the Nissan, a 17year-old Wallan girl, was taken to hospital with serious, non-life-threatening injuries. The driver, an 18-year-old Aberfeldie man, and the front passenger, a 51-yearold Wallan woman both went to hospital.
QUEENSLAND DOMINATES RACING SCENE
■ Another of the top races in Queensland will hit the track in the near future with the running of the Tattersalls Tiara at Eagle Farm on June 28.
The top galloper, Joliestar, in the strong camp of Chris Waller, will most likely go around again, a classy type she always puts in and will be hard to beat here.
She finished a good second to one of the fastest horses going around in the All Aged Stakes run at Randwick on April 19.
She is all class and will hard to beat here.
She won the Kingsford Smith Cup in style.
The top mare, Benedetta, may go around again in the Tatts Classic and on form is one of the hardest to beat here
She ran a close fourth to Sunshine in Paris in the Doomben 10,000, and she is one of the best mares in Australia
She finished seventh in the Kingsford Smith Cup and has had a lot of racing of late.
Prepared by leading Victorian trainer, Jason Warren at Mornington, she is always tough to beat.
Then we have the New South Wales sprinter, Kimochi, prepared by Gary Portelli, was outclassed in the All Aged Stakes, but puts in most of the time.
She was eased right out of the All Aged when she was soundly beaten.
However, in the Kingsford Smith Cup, improved with a good fourth to Joliestar.
The Annabel and Rob Archibald trained Lady Laguna was up in class, and was found wanting in the 10,000, and finished well back.
She is up in class here.
Then we have the Chris Waller trained Fire Storm, who finished well down the track in 12th spot in the Doncaster back on April 5.
He appeared a little out of his class.
The Victorian horse, Ameena, a three-yearold filly with Victorian trainers, Anthony and Sam Freedman, ran a good race finished fourth in the Doomben and is a nice type.
The Chris Waller trained Olentia battled away to finish seventh in the Sapphire Stakes,but they look a bit strong here.
One that has ability is the Victorian mare, CharmStone, who won the Sangster Stakes in Adelaide in fine style, but finished well back in the Goodwood, is much better than that, and the stable likes her.
The Graeme Begg trained three-year-old filly, Zloties, won the Queen of the Sapphire Stakes in good fashion.
Looks like many wins in store for her making it three on end.
Graeme is happy with the way she is travelling at the moment.
Another who goes well is Clear Thinking, trained by Paul Messara, who has had four starts and remains undefeated and is quick. She is up in class.
El Morzillo won in good fashion at Doomben, while Abounding also showed ability.
I do like Joliestar, Kimochi and Sunshine in Paris
Ted Ryan
Another blue blood
■ One of the most exciting colts of his generation, Growing Empire, will join Yulong Stud’s Stallion roster for the 2025 breeding season.
A brilliantly fast son of Miles of Krishan, he combines blistering speed, precocious talent, and a physique tailor-made for the sale ring.
A $700,000 Inglis Easter yearling, Growing Empire was a standout from day one. He delivered early on that promise, placing second on debut, before unleashing four straight stakes wins in his two-year-old and early threeyear-old career, including a dominant performance in the Group 3 H.D.F. Mc Neil Stakes and a commanding 1.3 lengths victory in the Listed Poseidon Stakes down the Flemington straight.
As a Spring three-year-old Growing Empire confirmed his standing among the elite taking on older sprinters for a gallant second in the Group One Manikato Stakes , beating home champion sprinter, I Wish I Win He was the first colt home in the $20 million
Everest, finishing third to, beat Group One stars, Lady of Camelot, Sunshine in Paris, Private Eye, Joliestar, Steffi Magnetica, and I Wish I Win. He backed that up with a brave fourth in the Newmarket Handicap, only a few lengths off the winner, despite as awkward run and carrying level weights, against older horses.
Hall of Fame Trainer Ciaron Maher was full of praise.
“Good horses can do that - they can sprint from either end of the race,” he said. “He’s a brilliantly fast colt”.
Growing Empire retired with over $3 million in earnings and a record that blends class, consistency and toughness.
Top jockey Mark Zahra, who partnered him in multiple wins, said: “He had that electric speed whenever you needed it – at the start or the finish, whenever to wanted to us it.”
His pedigree only enhances the package. He is by the champion sire, Zoustar, his dam Miles of Krishan, by Snitzel, was Group 2 placed and comes from a deep black-type family.
She is a half-sister to Group One winner II QuelloVeloce, stakes winner Donna Cattiva, and the to the dam of Group 3 winner Holmes A Court.
Applications open
■ Thoroughbred Breeder’s Australia has opened applications for its Stud Program, aimed at individuals with little or no experience in the breeding industry.
Launched in 2023 and fully funded by TBA, Stud Start is designed for those, particularly in rural areas, looking for a career or re-entering the workforce in the change of re-entering the workforce in the thoroughbred breeding sector. Successful applicants will participate in a sixweek program, including online learning, followed by an intensive week ion Scone, NSW It offers hands-on experiences with horses, class-based education, and farm visits.
● Sunshine In Paris. Racing Photos.
Locals celebrate end of the war
■ Local celebrations were hastily arranged to mark the end of World War II.
“A public thanksgiving service, arranged by the President of the Shire, was held at the Shire Hall on Thursday afternoon of last week.,” noted an Alexandra press report on August 24, 1945.
“There was a large attendance, the hall being filled. Cr. Murray presided, and on the platform with him were the Revs. E. Leaver, N. Paul and A. Lock ; Mr. G. V. Sawers (President R.S.L.), Mrs. C. Boote (R.S.L. Auxiliary), Mrs. Weeks (Red Cross), and Mr. C. Clifton (Dads Association)
“A programme of four hymns had been arranged, and printed sheets were provided for all present.
“The call to worship and prayer of thanks giving were given by Rev. E. Leaver ; the Rev. N. Paul read Psalm 126 and offered up prayers (the prayer of commemoration and the Lord's prayer), and the Rev. A. Lock gave an address appropriate to the special occasion.
“Mr. J. W. Whittaker sang Land of Hope and Glory. The National Anthem was sung before the service closed.
“Services were held in the morning at Yarck, Taggerty and Thornton Cr. Almond presided at Yarck and the Rev. Lock gave the address.
“At Taggerty Cr. Barker occupied the chair, and the Rev. Leaver gave the address.
“ Cr. Girdwood presided at Thornton and the Rev. Paul gave the address. All the services were very well attended.
★
“As part of the Peace celebrations an impromptu session of community singing was held in the Presbyterian Hall on Wednesday afternoon,” noted the Alexandra report.
“Although the function was originally planned at a few minutes' notice for the children, there was a very pleasing attendance of grown ups too, and as the afternoon went on the crowd grew until the hall was filled.
“The various brackets of community numbers were lustily sung, and the audience left the organisers in no doubt as to the enjoyment that was being derived from the entertainment,
“Bless em all was sung not once, but many times by special request.
“Mrs. D. Nicolson was pianist, and Miss Mary Nicolson conducted instrumental items were rendered by Mrs. Feldtmann and Audrey with piano-accordion, and Mrs. Dickson with her guitar.
“Songs were rendered by Messrs. Whittaker, Raff and Lister
“The happy mood of audience and performers was reflected in the numerous encores asked for and given.
“A spelling bee was won by Ann Barton
“To round off the afternoon an anonymous friend gave fruit, cakes, biscuits and raspberry cordial to provide afternoon tea for old and young.
“Rev. Paul thanked all who had helped make the afternoon such a splendid success.
“The children showed their appreciation by loud cheers. The singing of the National Anthem brought proceedings to a close.
“A bonfire was built on the hill near the Alexandra School, in quick
Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force member on August 15, 1945.
Australian
Memorial on Thursday of last week. A big attendance witnessed the burning of "Togo" on Thursday night,
“Oranges and biscuits were distributed to the children, as well as a a nice quantity of chocolates.
“Mrs Nicolson ignited the heap and it is understood this lady was responsible for the making of that not too handsome figure that was placed on the fire.
“It was really a great event for all-old and young alike.
“A very enjoyable night was held in the Parish hall on Friday last.
“Communly singing and dancing was indulged in by the big attendance of children present.
“ Mr. Ron Owens rendered a couple of yodelling numbers in good style, Mr R. H. Smith conducted the community singing; he also delivered an address to the children.
“Mr. Smith was "decked out" in a red cloak, with a flowing beard.
“The Alexandra Mothers' Club served the usual cordial with cakes, etc. to the children (nlu ring formation).
“Mrs Glllespie was a capable planist for the community singing.
“Peace celebrations were observed at Acheron with a social for the children, and a big bonfire.
“V.P. celebrations were held at Taggerty for the children.” ★
“In the East we still have to deal with the Japanese. To this task we shall turn with the utmost resolve, and with all our resources.”
The May 11, 1945 issue noted: “At 11 p.m. on Tuesday the British Prime Minister, Mr. Churchill, officially announced that Germany had surrendered, and the difficult job of "cleaning up" was now in progress.
“In Australia the news of Germany's capitulation was welcomed, as it will mean that full attention can now be given to the war in the Pacific.
“The lib eration of thousands of Australians, who are in Japanese prison camps, cannot come too quickly, as they have been in the hands of the Japs since 1942.
“Australian troops are fighting today in Borneo and various parts of New Guinea, and the thoughts of the people are naturally with them and the men in captivity.
“A combined thanksgiving service was held at the Shire Hall, Alexandra, on Wednesday at 11 a.m.
“Cr. W.A. Murray (President of the Shire) presided, and referred to the reason for the gathering that day-
“It was to offer thanksgiving for the successful way the European war had ended.
“It was with gladness in their hearts they offer thanksgiving. They were all glad the European war was over, but all must realise there was another war to finish.
“They would have to go on with the aim of concluding the war with Japan, and all meet again with gladness in their hearts when the war with Japan was over and their boys came back, and the obtaining of a lasting peace made.
“The hymn, All People that on earth do dwell, was sung by the gathering, after which Rev. Lock read a Scripture lesson, and the Rev. Leaver recited a Prayer of Thanksgiving.
“Mr. G. V. Sawers (President of Alexandra Sub-Branch R.S.L.) referred to the reason for thanksgiving by stating it was a thanksgiving to all who had assisted towards the defeat of Germany, and brought about the conclusion of the European war,
“There was a time when they may have been in a worse position, but our leaders and forces had guided us through.
“All hoped and trusted that the conclu. sion of the war with Japan was not far away.”
“Mr. C. Clifton (President of the Dads Association), Cr. Weeks (President of Alexandra Red Cross), and Mrs. D. R. Morrison (President Alexandra Comforts Funds) addres sed the gathering.
“The hymn, O God our Help in Ages Past, was sung. “A Prayer of Intercession was read by Rev. Lock and responded to
by the gathering. The Rev. Leaver gave a most appropriate address for the occasion.
“Benediction was given, two minutes' silence was observed, and the singing of the Recessional hymn concluded a simple and impressive service.
“The proceedings were opened with the National Anthem.”
● ● ● ● A policeman kisses a
Photo:
War
Earlier in the year in May, VE Day celebrated victory in Europe. The local newspaper published a photo of the King with his message:
we give thanks to Almighty God for great deliverance.
King George VI
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Go directly to www.LocalPaper.com.au or www.MelbourneObserver.com.au to read digital editions (exact replicas of print editions), free. Online edition dates in 2025 are: Feb. 5, Feb. 12, Feb. 19, Feb. 26, Mar. 5, Mar. 12, Mar. 19, Mar. 26, Apr. 2, Apr. 9, Apr. 16, Apr. 30, May 7, May 14, May 21, May 28, Jun. 4, Jun. 11, Jun. 28, Jun. 25, Jul. 2, Jul. 9, Jul. 16, Jul. 23, Jul., 30, Aug. 6, Aug. 13, Aug. 10, Aug. 27, Sep. 3, Sep. 10, Sep. 17, Sep. 24, Oct. 1, Oct. 8, Oct. 15, Oct. 22, Oct. 29, Nov. 5, Nov. 12, Nov. 19, Nov. 26, Dec. 3, Dec. 10. Lodge ads by 4pm Friday prior to publication.
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Free non-commercial classified advertising is available for individual readers, selling iitems. Your ad can be up to 40 words. This service is available at the sole discretion of the Editor. Ads will appear for up to 4 weeks. Free ads are not available to businesses or organisations. Deadline: 4pm Fridays prior to Print Edition. You can lodge your Free Ad by:
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PUBLIC NOTICES
Eager First Home Buyer Looking for Dream Home Local buyer ready to purchase now!
I’m a local resident looking to stay in the community I know and love. I'm actively searching for my first home and would love to hear from anyone considering selling.
Looking for:
Location: Preston, Thornbury, Coburg, or the edge of Reservoir
Within 1.8 km of a train station 2–3 bedrooms House, townhouse, or unit with some outdoor space preferred Budget: Up to $680,000 If you're thinking about selling—or know someone who is—I’d love to talk!
Contact: 0404 879 302 or 23SandJ@gmail.com Let’s make it a win-win for both of us. I’m serious, ready, and keen to move quickly!
CAR advertisers must supply registration or Vehicle Identification Numbers. By law, we are unable to publish listings without those details.
ARBOR FRUIT
All types of fruit trees. 40 yrs. Exp. Citrus and Olive tree specialist Espalier Expert. rankineaecos@ gmail.com
Call: John Rankine. 0415 927 342
BED. Single. Electric folable with massage and remote control. Adjustable back, legs and height. New Aspire mattress. German motor. EC. $500. Diamond Creek. 0401 473 565.N-Q
BIKE. Ladies. Make: Friction Huffey. Purple. Plus helmet, basket and pump. VGC. $110. Pakenham. 5940 5018. R-U
FORD AUII Fairport V8 Sedan. Original.Runs well. No rust. Good tyres, new screen, bring your mechanic or RACV test, RWC. Reg 7/27. 2AN3XE. VCG. $8000. Seymour. 0419 881 573. N-Q
INVERTER-GENERATOR. 2200-watt. 91 octane 4-stroke petrol motor, single phase, 240 volts, 50 hertz output, little used. GC. $95. Doreen. 9717 3465. R-U
LAURA ASHLEY Cotton Queen Coverlet set. Size 220cm x 240cm, plus 2 pillowcases. Pale blue with thin white stripes. Never used. EC. $40. Ashburton. 9885 2203. R-U
MAGAZINES. Collectors. New Idea, Woman’s Day, Stellar, Body and Soul, House magazine and many others. GC. Price negotiable. West Preston. 0416 576 660. R-U
PRIVATE SELLERS can have a free 40-word ‘For Sale’ ad - plus a single colour photo - in The Local Paper Classifieds to sell their items. Your free ad will appear in all editions of The Local Paper, covering all suburbs of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula, and selected Victorian country areas. Your free ad will appear in up to 4 issues. There are no charges, no commissions. T&Cs apply. Lodge your ad at: www.AdvertiseFree.com.au
OLD STAMPS, tools, tobacco bins, Telephone, pocket knifes, cigarette lighters, LP records, first covers and more. Australia decimal and pre-decimal bank notes. Used. Prices negot. Thomastown. 0425 733 890. F-M
PARTS for Ford AUIIV8. Secondhand. Struts. New parts: ball joints, 2 boxes of parts. VGC. $1000. Seymour 0419 881 573. N-Q
PICTURE FRAMES. 40 large to small. Various styles. VGC. All only $70. Keon Park. 9469 4558. N-Q
PORTABLE SAUNA. Top condition. $150. Alphington. 0401 226 114. F-M
RIDE-ON Deutscher 280 Honda motor, runs fine, seal on shaft leaks, heaps of parts including new seat, new cutting plate, body part dismantled, everything is there. GC. $800. Yarck. 0414 718 812. R-U
SAWS. 5 vintage saws for woodwork. FC. $20. Also frame for manual sharpening, GC. $8. Ashburton. 9885 2203.F-M
SHEEP. 60 mixed breed ewes, been running with rams, have ear tags. Friendly, great lawnmowers, saves mowing the paddocks and helps reduce fire risk. Can deliver. GC. $130. Deanside. 0426 397 741N-Q
SUBARU Rego Plates.
TABLE. Large solid timber, dining room table, 2100mm x 1000mm. Plus six chairs. GC. $30. Yea. 0419 109 887. N-Q
TRAIN BOOKS. Wide variety of books and pamphlets to all types of trains. All prices negotiable. Re- search. 9437 1253. N-Q
TYRE CHANGERS. Manual. Little used, complete with instructions, purchaser to collect. GC. $90. Doreen. 9717 3465 N-Q
WALKERS. Two. One new, hardly used, $120. Second one: GC but some small marks. $80. Seymour. 0419 881 573. R-U
WELLNESS Circulation Stimulator. $20 or offer. VGC. Frankston. 9789 9634.F-M
WHEELCHAIR. Electric. Pride Go. Mobility chair. Only moths old. Paid $3700. Will sell $1800 ONO. Like brand new. Rosanna. 0418 583 120. R-U
WHEELCHAIR. Electric. Hubang HBLD2-B. Light- weight, easy to manoeu- ver, strong battery life. Per- fect for everyday use. Sellng due to owner pass- ing away. GC. $1000. Thomastown. 0421 819 286.F-M
WHEELCHAIR. Manual. Evoke 2 Aspire 450mm. new, never been used as too small for subject. Foldable and extremely light for easy transport. Well made, Top of the range. EC. $600. Diamond Creek. 0401 473 565.N-Q
WINDOW. Aluminium. 1600mm x 1600mm with windout window. GC. Free. Murrindindi. 0418 564 174. R-U
and hot plate, lifting
carry bag. heaps ofready cut fire lighters. Heavy duty grate and 45 quart camp oven. VGC. $3000. Montmorency. 0483 881 609. R-U
PUBLIC NOTICES
GOD’S CHURCH invites faithful followwees of Christ to attend the New Testament local Passover night service. Alfredton, Ballarat. To secure your seat, 0419 327 366. N-P
CARAVAN. E20½ ft reegal 2009 Aussie Tourer Caravan. Full ensuite with separate shower, queen bed and AC/heater, TV, stereo, gas cooktop, microwave, comes with cover and large outdoor mat. EC. $32,000. Taggerty. 0438 782 112. R-U
MOBILITY SCOOTER. Pre-owned. Sill under warranty with new batteries. Features headlights and tail lights, swivel seat, rear shopping bag, includes key and charger. max user 136kg, 35km range per cahrge. Free delivery. VGC. $1295. Moorabbin. 0401 980 969. R-U
ANY or all amounts of used stamps to assist needy charities and world missions. Aust. and overseas used stamps. Keen collec- tor. Genuine. Top prices paid.
Horticultural Society Victoria. Saturday, June 14. 9.30am. Deakin University, Burwood. Rusden Theatre. Free parking and entry to large plant and allied goods market. Inspiring speakers: James Wall, Heidi Martin, Vasili Kanidiadis, $25, All welcome. plantzia@bigpond.com N-Q
BANK Money Boxes. GC. Negotiable. Mill Park. 9436 8935. H-O
CHAINS Bible College Australia; In depth Bible study and online Biblical studies. 0447 515 450 N-Q
WOOD FIRE STOVE HEATER. Ozpig Traveller. Used twice. Comes with grill
handle,
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