The Local Paper. Eastern Suburbs Edition. Wed., May 20, 2026

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2026

KNOX RATEPAYERS CHARGED TWICE

Longy’s Lampoon

Longy Library to close soon

■ Glen Waverley Library will temporarily close from Monday June 8 to begin construction of Monash Council’s $110 million Glen Waverley Civic Precinct Project – which will start in the second half of the year.

“To ensure we continue to deliver essential library services for the community, two new temporary sites will open in July:

■ Glen Waverley Library Express at 173 Coleman Pde, Glen Waverley

■ Glen Waverley Children’s Library at Black Flat Community Hall, 685 Waverley Rd, Glen Waverley

Monash Council says it realises that the closure will cause some disruption.

■ A number of City of Knox ratepayers who pay on a nine-month direct debit cycle may have experienced a second deduction processed.

Knox Council says this was caused by a “bank error”: “We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this has caused and understand the impact unexpected account deductions can have.

“Initial investigations indicate the duplicate deduction relates to a processing error by our bank,” said a Council representative.

“Council is working closely with them to resolve this as quickly as possible and to ensure appropriate safeguards are in place.”

Duplicate deductions were refunded on Thursday, May 7, and were to be visible in customer’s accounts shortly thereafter, depending on their bank’s processing times.

“Where customers have incurred bank fees due to this issue, we will arrange appropriate reimbursement, we are working with our bank on the best way to do this,” the Knox Council representative said.

“We are investigating the cause of this bank error and will implement any required improvements to prevent a recurrence.?

“If you have incurred bank fees due to this issue, we will arrange appropriate reimbursement. We are working with our bank on the best way to do this and will let you know more when confirmed.

“”Council sincerely apologises for this bank error,” the City Of Knox said.

Two dead after horror crash

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a fatal crash in Dandenong on Wednesday morning (May 20).

It is understood a vehicle was travelling along Princes Hwy when it lost control and crashed into a tree about 1.20am.

Both occupants of the vehicle died at the scene.

They are believed to be a 38-year-old man and a 19-year-old man from the Dandenong area.

Exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be established and the investigation is ongoing.

Traffic disruptionswasexpected in the area for most of the morning, with Princes Highway closed in both directions between Robinson and Potter Sts

Anyone who witnessed the incident, with footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at www.crimestoppers vic.com.au

Roof Repairs & Roof Replacements And Much More

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Photo: ABC News

Immerse at Knox

■ A world of art will be in unexpected places with the return of Immerse from June 26-July 26.

“Immerse will once again transform Knox into an openair gallery, bringing creativity out of traditional spaces and into every day,” said a Knox Council representative.

“Now in its eleventh year, Immerse continues its mission to make art accessible, surprising, and shaped by the people and places that make Knox unique.

“Across various locations across Knox , you can discover more than 20+ free experiences.

“From interactive installations, playful pop-ups and exhibitions, unexpected performances, and more. Wander through laneways, parks, and public spaces reimagined by artists from across the state.

Suitable for all ages.

HAVE YOU SEEN DAVID?

■ Police are urgently seeking public assistance to help locate missing 96-year-old Bulleen man David David was last seen in Victoria St in Bulleen on May 8 around 3.30pm.

Police and family have serious concerns for David’s welfare due to a medical condition and the length of time he has been missing.

David is perceived as Asian in appearance, with a thin build, balding grey hair and possibly wearing a suit.

It is believed David may have been in the Melbourne CBD and Lilydale areas on May 10.

He may be travelling in his silver 2004 Toyota Camry sedan with registration TGC818.

David does not have his mobile phone with him and he may be disorientated.

Anyone with information on David’s whereabouts is urged to contact Triple Zero (000) or Doncaster Police Station on 8841 3999.

Library re-opens

■ Bulleen Library is ready to welcome the community into a refreshed, more functional space designed to support learning, connection and culture.

The refurbishment builds on Bulleen library’s long-standing role as more than just a place to borrow books, strengthening its position as a valued community hub.

Eastern Briefs Monster raffle

Dutch connection

■ Monbulk Living and Learning Centre hosted the From the Lowlands to the Ranges exhibition held by the Lilydale & District Historical Society.

“This collection of stories and images celebrating the story of Dutch migration to Australia and settlement in Monbulk, Silvan and surrounds saw hundreds turn out to reminisce and reconnect with others who share their heritage,” said monbulk MLA Daniela De Martino.

State Funeral

■ The State Funeral Service of the Norman Henry Lacy (1941–2026) was held yestrday (Tues., May 19)

Mr Lacy was elected to the Victorian Parliament in 1973, representing both Ringwood and Warrandyte , and was Secretary of the Parliamentary Liberal Party from 1976 to 1979.

He was integral in establishing Heide Museum of Modern Art.

Help with bills

■ Yarra Valley Water is bringing faceto-face financial support to Darebin, Manningham and Banyule households this May and June, making it easier for residents to get help with their water bills.

Whether it is understanding concessions, checking eligibility for grants or setting up more manageable payment options, staff will be on hand to offer practical help.

Elder abuse talk

■ Everyone in the community has a right to feel safe, respected and supported in public spaces and at home. However, some older people are denied these rights, often by the people who are closest to them. Elder abuse is one of the most overlooked and hidden issues in our communities, and like many other forms of family violence, many cases go unreported.

The Knox Council says that it is committed to helping the community to live free from abuse, and this year will acknowledge World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Tuesday, June 23, with a free event. The day is an opportunity for communities to come together and engage in conversations that not only address elder abuse and ageism, but also preserve the dignity of older people.

“Bulleen Library has long played a vital role in the community, and we’re excited to welcome people back to a refreshed space that enhances the accessibility and benefit of library services,” said Whitehorse Manningham Libraries CEO Sally Both

Armaguard hold-up probe

Police issued this image

■ Detectives from the Armed Crime Squad are appealing for information after reopening a cold case investigation into an armed robbery of an Armaguard truck at Chadstone shopping centre in 1994.

Two Armaguard employees, a 61year-old North Melbourne man and a 54-year-old Sandringham man, were at the centre’s cinema on Monday, May 16, 1994, to collect the weekend’s takings.

Around 11.40am, they exited the complex carrying three bags filled with cash when they were confronted by a lone male offender wearing a balaclava and carrying a handgun and a cardboard box.

The man was described at the time as approximately 30-40 years old, around 170-178cm tall with a medium/ slim build. He was wearing a fawn long sleeve top, a fawn balaclava and brown gloves.

The man demanded the two Armaguard employees “get down, drop the money” at gunpoint.

The offender consequently – and deliberately – shot one man in the lower leg area. The round struck him in the right ankle before ricocheting into the shoe of the other guard.

■ The 2026 Monster Community Raffle celebrates 21 years of supporting the Manningham community.

The raffle has been helping local groups raise funds for their programs, services, and initiatives, and deliver positive outcomes for people of all ages.

The raffle is supported by Manningham Council’s raffle partner, the Templestowe Bowling Club

First prize is one $5000 Coles Myer gift voucher.

Runner-up prize is five $1000 Coles Myer gift vouchers.

Any not-for-profit organisation in Manningham can take part in the raffle. This includes schools, community groups and clubs.

Not for profit community groups can order the ticket books for free.

The only cost to the groups and organisations is the time it takes to sell the tickets.

■ Monbulk MLA Daniela De Martino handing out SRC badges at The Patch Primary School to Millie, Norah, Sage, Reggie, Joe, Emily, Benji and Henry

David of Bulleen

57 years. Since 1969.

Police Rounds

Erratic driving

■ Police have arrested a man and seized cash and weapons following reports of erratic driving in Flemington on Wednesday evening (May 13).

Officers responded to several reports of a Subaru WRX being driven on its rims in the Flemington area about 8.30pm.

Police spotted the vehicle stationary on Clarence St before boxing in the Subaru and making demands for the driver to exit the vehicle.

The driver allegedly attempted to flee the scene, crashing into several parked vehicles, before officers effectively deployed a taser and he was taken into custody on Marshall St.

Police searched the vehicle and seized a jerry can, a baton and OC spray.

An amount of cash, drugs and a taser were also allegedly located on the driver.

A 31-year-old man was transported hospital under police guard and is expected to be interviewed. The investigation remains ongoing.

Pedestrian struck

■ Police are investigating after a car struck a pedestrian in Meadow Heights last Tuesday evening (May 12).

Emergency services were called to the collision at the intersection of Shankland Boulevard and Nicholson Crescent about 5.50pm.

The pedestrian, a 78-year-old man, was transported to hospital with lifethreatening injuries.

The driver of the car stopped at the scene and is assisting police with their enquiries.

Car park assault

■ Police have charged a man following an assault in a carpark in Meadow Heights on April 20.

It is alleged two vehicles were involved in a minor collision in the car park of Meadow Heights Shopping Centre

A witness to the collision intervened after observing a male and female arguing with the driver of the other vehicle.

During the incident, the male offender assaulted the witness, causing him to sustain significant facial injuries.

Police executed warrants at addresses in Glenroy and Strathmore where a 43year-old man was arrested.

He has been charged with multiple offences including recklessly cause injury, common law assault and drug possession.

He has been bailed to appear at Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court on September 8.

Criminal damage

■ Fawkner Divisional Response Unit officers are appealing for public assistance as they investigate a series of criminal damage incidents where ball bearings were fired across Melbourne and the surrounding suburbs.

It is believed offenders fired ball bearings to smash the windows of shops, restaurants and businesses between Friday May 8 and Monday May 11. Several bus shelters were also damaged during this time. Some of the incidents which are believed to be linked include those at Malvern East, Bentleigh East, Stonnington and Coburg

of a

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2026

FIREARMS, DRUGS SEIZED IN RAIDS

■ Police have charged two men and seized 11 firearms and a large quantity of drugs as part of an ongoing investigation into an alleged syndicate linked to trafficking and the manufacturing of drugs and firearms.

With assistance form the Special Operations Group, Bomb Response Unit, Clandestine Laboratory Squad, the Western Region Crime Squad and Mill Park Divisional Response Unit, detectives from the North West Metro Regional Crime Squad executed search warrants in the Lara, Gisborne and Thomastown areas.

As a result, police seized the following items:

■ 11 firearms, including homemade firearms, imitation firearms and gel blasters

■ Firearm parts and ammunition

■ Drugs of dependence.

A 54-year-old Lara man, a 38-year-old Gisborne man, a 19-year-old Thomastown man and a 32-year-old Lara man were arrested.

The 54-year-old man has since been charged with:

■ Prohibited person possess a firearm

■ Possess traffickable number of firearms

■ Possess cocaine

■ Possess cannabis

■ Fail to comply with direction to assist with access to data under warrant.

He will appear before Geelong Magistrates’ Court on May 14.

The 38-year-old man has since been charged with:

■ Possess cocaine

■ Possess drug of dependence

■ Possess prohibited weapon

■ Possess a general category handgun.

He has been bailed to appear at court at a later date.

The 19-year-old man and the 32-year-old man are expected to be charged on summons with firearm related offences.

161 VIOLENCE CALLOUTS LOCALLY IN ONE WEEK

■ A man who allegedly strangled and threatened to kill his former partner with a hammer before attempting to set part of his home alight is one of the 161 family violence callouts police in the Dandenong division responded to and foiled in just a week.

Police intelligence tracked how many family violence related matters the division responded to over a seven-day period last month.

Officers in the division worked around the clock, responding to every family violence call out as a priority to ensure victim safety and prevent further harm from occurring.

The Dandenong division includes the Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia areas.

Of the 161 call outs, 85 were in Casey, 45 in Greater Dandenong and 31 in Cardinia

It resulted in 95 perpetrators being arrested in the week – with 58 of them charged by police for family violence offences.

Some of those arrested and charged include:

■ A 36-year-old man who allegedly strangled and threatened to kill his former partner with a hammer before dousing the front porch of his residence with

petrol and attempting to set it alight. The man was arrested by police, with the victim taken to safety. The man was charged with intentionally cause injury, threats to kill, contravention of an intervention order and attempted criminal damage by fire.

■ A 35-year-old man who allegedly used a handgun to threaten and rob his former partner and persistently contravened a family violence intervention order.

The man was arrested by police, with the victim taken to safety. He’s been charged with 35 offences including armed robbery, persistent contravention of an intervention order, conduct endangering life and ramming of a police vehicle.

Police executed a search warrant at the man’s property and seized several handguns and imitation firearms.

A 28-year-old man who allegedly killed his family

Police Beat

Queen Vic arson

■ Detectives from the Arson and Explosives Squad are investigating a theft and arson on an ATM in Melbourne’s CBD early on Wednesday morning (May 13).

Three people gained access to an ATM using homemade explosives on Victoria St about 2.45am.

The homemade device ignited in the face of one of the men, leaving him with serious and life changing injuries.

It is believed the trio fled the scene on foot, before the injured man was located a short time later on Peel St

He was conveyed to hospital to be treated for serious facial injuries where he was under police guard.

Detective Inspector Chris Murray, Arson and Explosives Squad, said: “This was a targeted and opportunistic attack on an ATM which has left one man with life changing injuries.

“I have said it before and I will say it again: fire and incendiary devices are volatile, unpredictable and incredibly dangerous in untrained hands.

“Two other men present at the scene fled, leaving their associate severely injured. It is only a matter of time until you are identified and arrested – I would appeal to you to visit your nearest police station and hand yourselves in before then.”

Trio charged

■ Detectives from Operation Alliance have charged three teenagers following a series of incidents across Wyndham on Monday night, May 11.

Police will allege a group of six entered a gym on Hummingbird Boulevard in Tarneit , where they stole a set of car keys before fleeing in a white Honda Accord Euro

dog and persistently contravened a family violence intervention order. The man was arrested by police, with his family taken to safety. He’s been charged with persistent contravention of an intervention order, criminal damage and cruelty to animals.

All three men have been remanded in custody to face court at a later date.

The callouts led to around 290 family violence offences being detected by police in the week.

More than half of the offences (57 per cent) related to perpetrators breaching family violence intervention orders and 26 per cent related to assaults against victims.

Police know that many breaches of intervention orders are committed using technology, with perpetrators using mobile phones and social media to harass, threaten and control victims remotely – extending harm beyond physical proximity and making it harder for families to feel safe.

Other offending included harassment, property damage, rape and non-fatal strangulation.

Six of the perpetrators charged were also recidivist – committing multiple family violence offences against their partners and children over extended periods of time.

It is understood the same group then reattended the same gym, this time stealing a blue BYD Sealion about 9.30pm.

At 1.15am, the six teens approached two men who were exiting a gym on Palmers Rd in Truganina

Police will allege the group demanded their phones while making verbal threats.

The group fled the scene empty handed in the stolen BYD Sealion

A short time later, the group allegedly approached two teenage boys on the corner of Ison and Ballan Rds in Manor Lakes

One of the boys was stabbed, while the other is believed to have been struck by a vehicle.

A 15-year-old boy was taken to hospital with critical injuries, while a 16-yearold boy was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Three teenagers were arrested.

A 14-year-old boy from the Wyndham area has been charged with intentionally cause serious injury in circumstances of gross violence, affray, aggravated burglary and theft of motor vehicle.

A 15-year-oldgirl from the Wyndham area has been charged with (x2) aggravated burglary and theft of motor vehicle.

A 16-year-old girl from the Wyndham area has been charged with (x3) aggravated burglary, theft of motor vehicle and handle stolen goods.

The trio were remanded to appear before a children’s court at a later date.

Specialist detectives from Operation Alliance continue to investigate the incidents and anticipate further arrests will occur in the coming days. Operation Alliance is dedicated solely to pursuing, disrupting and dismantling the state’s worst youth gangs.

ARIES (March 21 – April 20)

Lucky Colour: Black

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 1-2-8-1

Lotto Numbers: 1-10-19-28-37-40

For most, a sentimental mood prevails, and you could find yourself easily moved by emotional situations. More work and added responsibility are indicated, and for some, this will also mean more money and travel. A romantic suggestion may arrive unexpectedly and bring pleasant surprise.

TAURUS (April 21 – May 20)

Lucky Colour: Mauve

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 1-2-1-4

Lotto Numbers: 6-12-14-24-36-37

Many Taureans will be travelling to unusual places or spending more time away from home. Be careful with spending and avoid unnecessary losses. Social activities increase, but take care not to upset your digestive system through overindulgence.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 3-1-5-1

Lotto Numbers: 3-21-30-38-39-42

Watch your finances carefully and keep track of where your money goes. An invitation to a major event may come your way. An idea of yours could be well received, especially in a work-related matter, leading to a favourable outcome.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 1-2-3-4

Lotto Numbers: 7-13-24-25-32-41

Secrets have a way of surfacing, so keep confidences to yourself. Someone close may need your help or guidance. There could also be an increase in youthful energy around you, whether through children, pets, or new beginnings within the home.

LEO (July 23 – August 22)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 1-6-2-4

Lotto Numbers: 1-16-24-30-40-43

Many Leos will need to face certain facts before making major changes. Some confusion regarding loyalties could arise, and loved ones may complicate decision-making. Take your time and be clear about where you stand.

VIRGO (August 23 – September 23)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 3-2-4-2

Lotto Numbers: 3-12-32-36-40-41

Romance may demand more of your time. A rather unusual social invitation could lead to memorable experiences. Some Virgos may also receive a financial windfall or welcome a monetary boost.

LIBRA (September 24 – October 23)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 1-9-3-2

Lotto Numbers: 10-19-23-32-34-41

Compliments may turn your head, but take praise with a grain of salt. Social events bring the unexpected, and for some, a new love with a hint of mystery may enter the picture.

SCORPIO (October 24 – November 22)

Lucky Colour: Navy

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 4-3-2-9

Lotto Numbers: 4-13-22-29-30-41

You are likely to receive value for money in current dealings. A decision may need to be made that affects your lifestyle. Expanding your social circle will prove beneficial, as new connections open fresh possibilities.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 – December 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 3-1-1-8

Lotto Numbers: 3-11-18-37-40-44

A very busy period lies ahead, requiring quick thinking and fast decisions. Changes may bring greater responsibility along with improved finances. Love relationships improve, and there is more to celebrate than to regret.

CAPRICORN (December 21 – January 19)

Lucky Colour: Sand

Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 6-7-7-2

Lotto Numbers: 6-15-27-36-40-43

Be cautious about what you reveal to others. This period brings the unexpected. A new person entering your life may spark romantic interest and bring renewed excitement.

AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 19)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 4-3-2-2

Lotto Numbers: 4-13-22-31-39-40

Opportunities arise to visit unusual places and meet interesting people. Finances receive a boost, and love may begin to take up more of your time and attention.

PISCES (February 20 – March 20)

Lucky Colour: Pale Blue

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 5-8-3-1

Lotto Numbers: 5-14-17-21-33-42

Health and diet may become a priority. Count the cost carefully before engaging in legal matters. Joint possessions or shared finances could require careful handling to avoid tension.

Longy’s Lampoons

BUDGET BACKLASH

■ Last week’s Federal Budget launched by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Treasurer Jim Chalmers has broken election promises.

What an embarrassment to see tghe nation’s Prime Minister squirm his way through an interview with the 7.30’s host Sarah Ferguson.

Mr Albanese insisted no election promises had been broken, just that the Government had “changed position”.

Solar petition

■ A 1509-signature petition against a Solar Project at rubicon has been presented by eildon MLA Cindy McLeish.

The petition points out the project is located in a high bushfire-risk zone, surrounded by dense forest with only one road in and out.

“The site lies close to two school camps that host children yearround, increasing the danger in the event of fire.

“The inclusion of lithium battery storage adds serious risk of explosion and contamination of local waterways.

“This industrialscale development would ruin the rural landscape, threaten wildlife and tourism, and cause significant stress and mental health impacts for residents who fear for their safety and the loss of their way of life.”

The petition asks that the Legislative Assembly oppose and reject the Rubicon Solar Project, and to prevent large-scale industrial energy developments in bushfire-prone, environmentally sensitive, and rural residential areas.”

Dodgy lotto deal

■ Veteran Victorian MLA Beverley McArthur says the Opposition has successfully secured a motion demanding all documents on the Allan Labor Government's “dodgy lottery deal”.

“The motion follows the Treasurer's announcement on Budget Day that the state's exclusive public lottery licence had been handed to The Lottery Corporation for 40 years,” Mrs McArthur said.

“This decision is a result of a negotiation that occurred without a competitive, public tender process, is decades longer than the previous ten-year deal signed in 2017, and benefits a public company that donated at least $132,000 to Labor since 2022.”

83 days to Census

■ There are only 83 days to go until Census night, taking place on Tuesday, Augus 11.

Remember the shambles when the previous Census was held?

The Australian Bureau of Statistics is encouraging regional and rural communities in Victoria to be counted and ensure their communities are accurately represented.

Data from the 2021 Census showed a significant increase in people moving to regional areas (+184,000 people) in the previous five years, with +62,900 moving to regional Victoria

The 2026 Census will be the first opportunity to record how these shifting populations have impacted local infrastructure and where new investments in services are required.

No food for kids

■ Almost nine in 10 parents going without food so kids can eat, over one-third can’t afford doctors for kids and a shocking one in fivesay their children have gone without food for a whole day, new research reveals.

The Salvation Army has launched their annual Red Shield Appeal and warned that the need is growing, as a new survey of Salvos clients details the inconvenient truths.

$2m for rail CCTV

■ The Allan Labor Government’s announcement of $2 million for CCTV upgrades at some regional train stations fails to improve the safety of commuters, says Shadow Minister for Police and Corrections Brad Battin.

“Whilst Labor spins this modest upgrade, they are ripping PSOs from 119 train stations across metropolitan Melbourne, despite criminal offending being at a record high,” Mr Battin said.

Lots of wind

■ The Allan Labor State Government has OK’dthe biggest wind farm in the Southern Hemisphere Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny has signed off on the Environment Effects Statement for the Warracknabeal Energy Park

“Once complete, the 219-turbine wind farm would deliver more than 1.5 gigawatts of renewable energy –enough to power up to 1.2 million homes,” said a Government representative.

“The project would become the highest producing wind facility in Victoria and generate around 12.5 per cent of the entire state’s future energy needs.

“The project is expected to create almost 950 jobs during construction.”

■ Bendigo - Seven hundred people in the Town Hall tonight heard 25 - yearold printer, Mr. Clifford Powell, win the final of the first "Argus" Lieder contestthe biggest competition of its kind in Australia

Mr. Powell, a bass baritone, who lives in High st., Thornbury, sang Schubert's "Eil King" and Schumann's "I Will Not Grieve ."

He is a member of The Argus offset printing staff.

Strike clashes

■ Nine men were arrested in clashes between New Zealand police and striking waterside workers near Auckland waterfront last night.

Thousands of Friday night shoppers, with many children, suddenly found themselves in the centre of struggles on footpaths and roadways.

The disturbance started at 5 p.m., when deregistered unionists congregated in the waterfront area as members of the new waterside union were leaving the wharves for tea.

As a large parly of new unionists started to cross Queen st , the demonstrators converged on them.

All police reserves were called out, and they came in police cars and vans with sirens screaming.

Two lines of constables, shoulder to shoulder, then formed across a side street and moved slowly toward Queen st., shepherding all the demonstrators before them.

Albert gives £1000

■ This week, Australian aboriginal artist Albert Namatjira provided £1,000 for the Adelaide University's fund for aboriginal research.

Namatjira did not make the donation directly himself. As Australian law now stands, an aborigine cannot control an income of his own.

But the gift was made by the founder of the Bread and Cheese Club in Melbourne, Mr. J. K. Moir , out of the proceeds of an illustrated book of Namatjira's art which the club published under the editorship of Mr. C. P. Mountford, the anthropologist.

Mr. Moir said yesterday: "Albert , as an aborigine, cannot con trol his own financial affairs, but I know that what we have done has his enthusiastic endorsement.

● ● ● ● Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

Longy

■ The Torch announces an immersive public program for Confined 17 - its landmark annual exhibition featuring 497 artworks from 424 First Peoples artists with lived experience of incarceration in Victori.

The exhibition is until June 14 at Glen Eira City Council Gallery.

Through a series of live events, The Torch invites the public to engage directly with the artists’ stories, learn traditional skills, enjoy exhibition tours, Sunday music sessions and more, moving the conversation beyond the gallery walls and fostering a deeper community connection.

Confined 17 is an exhibition spanning painting, weaving, ceramics and carved emu eggs, alongside unexpected works including a large handmade woollen rug, woven eel traps and a sculpture made from kangaroo bones.

Together, these works explore themes of kinship, healing, cultural identity and personal journeys, reflecting the strength, resilience and creativity of artists connected to The Torch’s Indigenous Arts in Prisons and Community program

This exhibition serves as a profound testament to the resilience and cultural identity of artists navigating the justice system.

Exhibition dates: Until June 14

Times: Mon to Fri 10am–5pm; Sat and Sun, 1–5pm

Venue: Glen Eira City Council Gallery, Cnr. Glen Eira and Hawthorn Rds., Caulfield

Admission: Free

Further Details: thetorch.org.au/ Cheryl Threadgold

Gran Partita

■ The MSO’s Gran Partita concert was a celebration of all things woodwind. The first half comprised Strauss’ Sonatina 1 in F major under the direction of David Thomas Composed between 1941 and 1943, it serves as an introduction to a more modern sensibility of counterpoint and texture where composition was concerned. Whilst maintaining a lyric sensibility, there is a robustness in the 16 piece wind ensemble that builds in complexity.

The contrary motion between the oboes and bassoons is equally playful and majestic speaking to a romantic sensibility. Ironically , Strauss ignores the prevailing turmoil of the decade escaping into a musical world where the interplay between instruments provided intellectual relief.

The second half of the evening was Mozart’s, Gran Partita under the direction of Johannes Grosso . There is a more traditional conversation between instruments taking place in this work where the lyric motifs are threaded across parts echoing and resurfacing in a more traditional manner. Individual instruments are given their moments before, once again, merging with the ensemble.

What is of particular note is the unity amongst the instrumentalists in both halves of the evening. There is an understanding between the players of where the light and shade must fall whilst dealing with music that is technically demanding and emotionally charged. In this instance, Grosso and Thomas led from their chairs as players. A larger orchestra would have had a conductor. Players, thus, must be attuned to the whole not just for timing but for the overall balance and texture. Such was the accord between them that both the Strauss and Mozart were done equitable justice.

Review by David McLean

DEATH OF A SALESMAN

■ GWB Entertainment and Andrew Henry Presents have announced the return of Arthur Miller's Pulitzer Prize-winning classic play Death of a Salesman to Her Majesty’s Theatre, Melbourne, for a strictly limited two-week season from August 11.

Emmy, Golden Globe and Tony Award winner Anthony LaPaglia will reprise his role as Willy Loman , for which he received rave reviews for the Melbourne, Sydney and Perth seasons.

LaPaglia’s portrayal of Willy Loman offers an opportunity to see this actor at home in Australia in one of the most iconic plays of the 20th Century.

Anthony LaPaglia expressed his delight at returning to the role of Willy Loman for an encore season at Her Majesty’s Theatre Melbourne where the production triumphed in 2023.

He said: “Arthur Miller was the presiding genius of American theatre in the 20th Century and Death of a Salesman arguably his finest achievement .

“I was lucky enough to meet and work with Arthur when I played Eddie Carbone in A View From the Bridge on Broadway in 1997 and feel a deep affinity for his work.

“The story of Willy Loman is simply one of the greatest roles ever written and remains timeless in its creation of the tragic unravelling of a man’s identity after years of neglecting his relationships and true self-fulfilment.

“You see the effect this has on his devoted wife and the shattered relationships with his sons.

“It also speaks profoundly to the American Dream and, in many ways, foreshadows the dissolution of that dream in the 21st Century. Even after 77-years, this play, like all great classics, is as powerful and relevant as ever.”

Directed by Neil Armfield (Cloudstreet, TheDiaryofaMadman,TheSecretRiver), this celebrated production offers theatregoers an opportunity to witness the power of live theatre in a transformative experience.

“When we developed this production of Arthur Miller’s great drama of the failure of the American Dream, Biden was in the White House

“With the extraordinary Anthony LaPaglia at its heart, the success of our show gathered and extended. As the presidency changed, we were shocked at Miller’s prescience.

“And now, as the Trump administration seems on the verge of chaotic collapse, this great play is all the more alive and urgent. I’m thrilled to be joining this brilliant cast once again as we bring this dazzling work of human imagination to life”, shared Armfield

LaPaglia and Armfield will be joined by an Australian cast, including Logie and Helpmann Award winner Alison Whyte reprising the role of Linda Loman , the complex and devoted wife of the failing salesman and Josh Helman (Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga) in his Green Room Award nominated performance as Willy’s tortured son Biff Loman, the golden boy who has descended into self-doubt and despair, with Ben O’Toole also reprising his role as Biff’s feckless brother Happy. Tickets are now on sale from salesmanaustralia.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Swing Affair

■ Mack the Knife was a ripping song (sorry!) to commence Morning Melodies at Hamer Hall.

Rhys Tolhurst sang the song languidly and sexily. He introduced the four-piece band: Musical Director Mike Pensini on keyboards, Gerry Pantazis on drums, Harry Morrison on double bass and Tim Wilson on saxophone and flute. What a quartet!

Each musician enjoyed solos throughout the concert, and all were impeccable.

Tolhurst’s I Get a Kick Out of You was enhanced by the smooth saxophone and was followed by a medley of That’s All, Where or When and Hold Me in Your Arms, before Nina Ferro joined him in Fly Me to

● ●

● ● Anthony La Paglia in Death of a Salesman. Photo: Jeff Busby the Moon Ferro’s harmony beautifully complemented Tolhurst’s melody.

Ferro’s renditions of So Nice to Come Home To and Crazy Way of Loving showcased her mellow, mezzo, ‘jazz’ voice. She looked elegant in a burgundy velvet, offthe-shoulder gown and was charmingly relaxed in all her songs.

Ferro revealed that she had chosen Rhys Tolhurst to join her in performing Dirty Dancing in Concert, which they were soon to reprise. Ferro warmly praised Tolhurst’s talent - justifiably - he was excellent.

Tolhurst returned to sing the gorgeous Something Stupid with Ferro, and her harmony, reminiscent of Nancy Sinatra, was delightful. The easy banter between the pair showed an endearing mutual respect and affection.

Tolhurst’s voice was evocative of Michael Bublé, Frank Sinatra and Harry Connick Junior, but melded into his own unique style, and exemplified in a lovely rendition of That’s Amore. Saxophone and drum solos in Dance With Me and You Don’t Know were exceptional.

When Ferro returned, she sang Shiny Stockings, which she confided was performed by Ella Fitzgerald and the 16-piece Count Basie band. One can only imagine the big band sound! Ferro’s rendition with the smaller band, however, was superb.

The encore was Unforgettable, famously sung by Nat King Cole. This wonderful finale, which included stunning double bass and piano solos, concluded an ‘unforgettable’ afternoon.

Review by Juliet Charles

You and Me and the Land of Lost Things

■ Arts Centre Melbourne presents a CDP Kids Production, Andy Griffiths' You and Me and The Land of Lost Things on June 13-14 at 11am or 1.30pm at the Playhouse.

A play by Richard Tulloch, this show is adapted from the book by Andy Griffiths and Bill Hope in a fun new theatrical adventure for children aged 6-12 and their adults.

A guinea pig and a lucky rabbit's foot are off on a wild quest through the Land of Lost Things - a world of snapping turtles, flying socks, treasure-hungry pirates and a very anxious bull.

It's a dangerous adventure, but with a bathtub boat, a guinea pig detector and just a little bit of luck, they might just make it home. That's if they don't get eaten by sharks, or tricked by Johnny Knucklehead, or trapped in the Lost Foot Empawrium

Performance Dates: June 13, 14 at 11am or 1.30pm. Venue: Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne Bookings: artscentremelbourne.com.au/ whats-on/2026/kids-and-families/you-andme-and-the-land-of-lost-things Cheryl Threadgold

Fabulous Caprettos

■ The Fabulous Caprettos perform at Frankston Arts Centre on Friday, May 22 at 8pm in the Main Theatre

Four legends unite for a night of Australian hits, including Dave Gleeson (The Screaming Jets/The Angels), Rai Thistlethwayte (Thirsty Merc/Joe Satriani/Sammy Hagar/TOTO), Joe Camiller i (The Black Sorrows) and Wendy Matthew s (Multi Aria Award Winner) live together as The Fabulous Caprettos

Performance Date: Friday, May 22 at 8pm Venue: Main Theatre, Frankston Arts Centre, Davey St., Frankston. Bookings: artscentre.frankston. vic.gov.au/Whats-On/Search-AllEvents/The-Fabulous-Caprettos-26 Cheryl Threadgold

Postcard Show

■ The Linden Postcard Show 2026 opens on June 6 and runs until August 1. Now in its 36th year, the show features 1000 works in a range of media and styles by artists of all backgrounds and abilities.

For some artists, the Postcard Show is the first time they publicly exhibit their work, while others enter year after year. What excites them all is the opportunity to exhibit their work at Linden New Art, alongside their peers both established and emerging.

Emerging artist and 2025 Postcard Show participant Chloe Kokoris says:

“I have found th e Linden Postcard Show a great way to share my artwork with the community, and to be inspired by the diverse range of creative art displayed by others. Being awarded The Geoffrey Conaghan and Matthew Erbs Tertiary Prize felt like a recognition of the importance of my contemporary textile practice and encouraged me to continue creating innovative pieces.”

Importantly, the Postcard Show provides a valuable source of income for artists through artworks sales, while revenue from entry fees and commission is invested back into Linden’s exhibition program.

Hamish Sawyer, Linden New Art’s curator adds: “The Linden Postcard Show is one of the few genuinely open art prizes in Australia. There is no selection process. You pay your entry fee, submit your works, and you’re automatically in the exhibition. As we celebrate our 40th birthday this year, we want the 2026 Postcard Show to be the biggest and best yet.”

As in previous years, the Linden Postcard Show is supported by local businesses and community members from St Kilda , donating more than 12 cash prizes and vouchers. Among the highlights are The Hive Milton House People’s Choice Award ($1000 cash) and The Linden New Art Board First Nations Award ($1000 cash) underscoring both Linden and the local community’s commitment to recognising and celebrating diverse artistic voices.

Event Details: June 6 - August 1

Address: 26 Acland St., St Kilda

Further Details: lindenarts.org/exhibitions/linden-new-art/linden-postcardshow-2026/ Cheryl Threadgold

● ● ● ● Installation view, Confined 17 2026 , presented by The Torch at Glen Eira City Council, Caulfield.

Photo: James Henry

● ● Mathew Lee, Catherine Dominguez, Nicholas Starte and Mym Kwa, Mathew Lee and Nicholas Starte in You and Me and the Land of Lost Things at Arts Centre Melbourne. Photo: Phil Erbacher. Report at left.

Observations

Broken Sky

■ Detective stories are loved by so many people, and the leading protagonist can range from an elderly English villager, a Belgian detective, a mediaeval monk or a contemporary cop.

But rarely is the detective a queer man investigating the murder of a gay son’s mother.

American author Joshua Moehling created the acclaimed and best-selling Ben Packard series, and his latest book is Beneath a Broken Sky in May, the fourth in the popular series, where Packard explores small town politics, a mysterious killer and a deadly storm.

Detective Ben Packard has settled in the small town of Sandy Lake. It's a hot summer, and a tornado has swept through causing fallen trees, destroyed homes, and desperate people.

The storm has also attracted a group of storm chasers with something to hide.

Then the mother of a gay boy is murdered in her home, suspects are everywhere. She was unpopular among the locals for the hell she recently raised at school when the administration refused to punish a group of students who were bullying her son. Could this be a case of payback?

This case feels close to home for Packard. Then someone from his past shows up unexpectedly and he is forced to confront the reality of navigating life as a gay man in a small town bent on tradition, no matter the cost.

The scene is set for revelations as Packard faces the prejudice of the town against the gay detective.

To find out how Moehling resolves this complex situation and solves the crime, you will have to read the book

CIRCUS SHOWCASE OPENS

■ One of the funniest, most endearing/ clever MCs Dandyman (Daniel Oldaker)a physical comedian, opened the Circus Showcase at Gasworks

This show featured a variety of finalists in this development competition, all receiving awards/prizes.

Oldaker set the scene for a fun evening with his physical comedy, plus sharp wit. He was funny, engaging, very professional, quite unique, though did remind me of the film character ‘ Pee-Wee Herman ’ ( Paul Reubens ).

Oldaker’s role was to introduce the three acts, plus encourage audience questions between them. A good device to keep things moving as the stage was reset.

First performer was Ryan Darwin , who used various apparatus with smooth, interesting transitions. It was mesmerising to watch him on the rope or swing with no safety net. Along with music his show flowed well. It was a poetic piece moving from the rope to juggling to the swing. Keeping audience interest throughout. This skilful piece was my favourite of the night.

Following Darwin was the very experienced Michael Connell . His show was classed as ‘edutainment’ as he combined maths with juggling - very impressive with a terrific rapport with the audience.

The third act was a trio of gnomes –known as Blitzen, Butts and Bonkers

Shows

■ The Mount Players: Mr Bailey’s Minders (by Debra Oswald) Until May 24 at the Mountview Theatre, 56 Smith St., Macedon. Director: Sonja Prater. Bookings: themountplayers.com

■ CLOC Musical Theatre: The Hunchback of Notre Dame, May 15-30 at the National Theatre, St Kilda. Director: Shaun Kingma, Musical Director: David Clausen-W isken, Choreographer Melanie Ott. Bookings: cloc.org,au

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: The Other Place (by Sharr White) Until May 16 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Director: Barry O’Neill. Bookings: mordialloctheatre. com.au

■ Williamstown Musical Theatre Company: Company – A Musical Comedy (Stephen Sondheim) Until May 23 at Altona City Theatre, 115 Civic Pde., Altona. Bookings: wmtc.org.au

■ Essendon Community Theatre: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (by John Heimbuch and Jon Ferguson) May 21 –30 at the Bradshaw St. Theatre, Bradshaw St., West Essendon. Directors: Claire Benne and Nathalie Fo. Bookings: essendontheatrecompany. com.au

Julie Houghton

Beneath A Broken Sky will be released by Penguin Random House on Ma 26 and will be available in bookstores or online.

La Traviata

■ “What’s not to love about Verdi ?” I asked my companion for the evening at the Australian Opera’s production of La Traviata. The maestro could sway the audience with a lyric motif that could evoke both delight and sadness. As the courtesan, Violetta (Stacey Alleaume) is dying in the final act, echoes of the theme that represented her love for Alfredo (Filip Manu) accentuates the emotion of her coming demise. We are left emotionally bereft. Alleaume captures that emotional range - her character having sacrificed everything. Her voice transports the audience, the colour and texture redolent with passion, pity and tragedy when required. Manu’s Alfredo is caught up in the wake of the path Alleaume ascribes for her character. Their duets are, however, passionate and moving.

Director Sarah Giles has incorporated tableaus and motifs to accentuate the indulgent world of Paris. The set by Charles Davis provides for anterooms and an outdoor setting with a simple sliding of walls that allows the change of acts to work seamlessly. The opening crimson lighting ( Paul Jackson ) denotes a red light district with Violetta attempting to extricate herself from a liaison in one room while the party continues next door. Her character is set. Giles has also added dumb show figures to symbolise events as characters sing. This doesn’t always land. But the simple falling of leaves from a tree epitomises what is to come.

Conductor Giampaolo Bisanti provides equitable restraint with the orchestra building on the rising emotion of the moment without letting it escape.

The Regent Theatre provides the audience with a greater awareness of the role of the orchestra as it is so exposed. This means the acoustic balance is not always that of a modern concert hall, but it makes the interplay between the characters on stage and the pit an essential part of the action. This would have been the case in Verdi’s day.

La Traviata is an opera for the people. A socially ostracised courtesan teaches the so-called elite the true meaning of love and honour. It is a story of redemption and sacrifice but, alas, this can only lead to tragedy.

Review by David McLean

They were the ‘clowns’ of the circus with a mixture of large prop, ‘knockabout’ comedy with some technical, clever acrobatic work from contortionist Kelsea . There was a lot going with this group from the company LAKKlustre with clown trained Karly and fitball tumbling performer Ashley , sometimes too much at one time making it difficult to know who to watch.

Overall, this Gasworks Circus Showcase was a terrific way to watch a variety of circus performances with some very talented people sure to impress for many years.

Review

by

Elizabeth Semmel

A Twist of Fate

■ You could call them ambitious, but Scary Goats Theatre, founded in 2023 by Chloe Towan, has proven beyond doubt of their ability to create unique works such as A Twist of Fate, in fact Season 4.

In less than a year SGT has already performed Seasons 1 to 3 and obviously my regret is having missed them.

Chloe Towan SGT’s mission to provide “a blend of different genres together to make memorable theatre experience” was just that, with four individual plays performed by a large group of masterly and engaging actors.

Not only did many act, they were also writers and directors showing off their ability to embrace the many facets of theatre.

As Narrator, Cowan introduced each piece, was it to be scary, was it to be comedic, they were all of that, yet with a twist.

Deaccession written by Jes Budin and

directed by Kate Weston with Hayley Michaels demonstrating her considerable range of emotions in a Museum that had security problems.

William Whitfield’s Consider the Birds and directed by Chloe Towan, brought together four seasoned actors, Richard Mealey, Lillian Braumberger, Jess Budin and Corey M. Glamuzina for birdwatching, that turned out to be a little more. Hard to top Richard Mealey’s comedic moments.

Following an interval at the intimate space that is Carlton’s, The Motley Bauhaus, a three hander, Personal Space written by Samina Ellen and directed by Patrick Slee with some serious interaction between Colin, Max Nunes-Cesar and Amanda, Jess Budin . Another woman Victoria, Kate Weston appeared, but with what influence and with whom?

The final play 6 Down 1 Across written and directed by Chloe Towan, brought attempted murder to the fore. “Murderer”, Richard Mealey while covering his victim and with knife in hand was caught by crossword expert Death Tayla Harry but while explaining his reasons for murder to Death, he met an untimely end by the hand of his victim in A Twist of Fate

A must, watch out for A Twist of Fate’s Season 5 Anthology of the Unusual later in July.

Review by Graeme McCoubrie

Trivia Night

■ After the roaring success of the inaugural VABTTriviaNight in 2025, the demand was overwhelming to stage another similar event. AVeryAppealingShowbizTrivia Fundraiser will be held on Saturday, June 13. Celebrities attending include Alan Fletcher, Brian Nankervis, Don Bridges, Denise Scott, Geoff Paine, Jack Levi, Katrina Milosovic, Lucinda Cowden, Mark Taylor, Marty Fields, Michael Pope, Richard Stubbs, Sally-Anne Upton, Sian Fuller, Simon Taylor, Steven Gates and special musical performances by The Sarah MacLaine Trio.

Event Emcee and comedian Michael Pope says: “Last year went off so well, we thought we should give it another go. Who doesn’t enjoy music, trivia, games, and silliness?”

Very Appealing Showbiz Trivia Fundraiser 2026. Venue: NEP Studios, 75 Coventry St, Southbank. Time: 7pm-10pm, Saturday, June 13. Tickets: $60 per person: BYO food and beverages humanitix.com (search VABT)

■ BottledSnail Productions: Witness for the Prosecution (by Agatha Christie) May 21 – May 30 at the Old Magistrates' Court, Old Melbourne Gaol, 377 Russell St., Melbourne. Director: Nicky NevilleJones. Bookings: bottledsnail.com/ events/2026/5/21/witness.

■ The 1812 Theatre: The Ladykillers (by Graham Linehan) May 21 – June 13 at The 1812 Theatre, 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Susan Rundle. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au

■ Peridot Theatre: The Cottage (by Sandy Rustin) May 22 – 31 at the Clayton Community Theatre, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: Steve Saul. Bookings: peridot.com.au

■ Beaumaris Theatre: Two Ladies (Nancy Harris) May 22 – June 6 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Adam Rafferty. Bookings: beaumaristheatre.com.au

■ Melton Performing Arts: Terry Pratchett’s Guards! Guards! (Adapted by Stephen Briggs) May 28 – 30 at the Melton Community Hall. Director: Josh Tooth. info@meltonpa.org.au

■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group: Kimberly Akimbo (by David Lindsay Abaire) May 28 – June 6 at the Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman St., Strathmore. Director: Drew Mason. Bookings: stagtheatre@outlook. com or 0419505231

■ Babirra Music Theatre: 42nd Street, May 29 – June 6 at The Round, 397 Whitehorse Rd., Nunawading. Director: Alan Burrows: Musical Director: Marty Macaulay; Choreographer: Sue Lewis. Bookings: babirra.org.au

■ Hills Act Theatre Company: Away (by Michael Gow) May 30 at 7.30pm and May 31 at 2pm at The Memo, 2/38 Symons St Healesville. Bookings: Culture tracks.info. Bookings: 1300 368333.

Auditions

■ The Mount Players: After-Light (Zachary Vanstone) May 21 at 7pm at the Mountview Theatre, 56 Smith St., Macedon. Directors: Tom Foster and Zachary Vanstone. Audition bookings: mountplayerspresident@gmail.com

■ Frankston Theatre Group: As You Like It (By William Shakespeare) May 21, 22 at 6.00pm; May 23 at 10.00am at The Shed, Overport Park,4/159 Overport Rd., Frankston South. Director: Ruth Gilmour. Audition enquiries: r.macaulay007@gmail.com

■ The 1812 Theatre: A Murder is Announced (by Agatha Christie) May 24 at 7pm and May 26 at 7.30pm at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Steve Saul. Audition enquiries: taul62@yahoo. com.au or 0414 733 268.

■ Encore Theatre: Steel Magnolias (by Robert Harling), May 31 from 1.30pm, June 2 from 7pm at Fleigner Hall, 31 Highland Ave, Oakleigh East. Director: Susan Rundle. Audition bookings: Trybooking

Cheryl Threadgold

● ● ● ● Michael Connell

● ● Chloe Towan Photo: 3 Fates Media.

Winton Raceway

■ The 49th Historic Winton Race and Display on May 30 nad 31 with a free train and shuttle service provided for those traveling to Winton Motor Raceway from Melbourne and with locals anticipating one of North-Eastern Victoria’s largest sporting events.

“The J (pre-1931) and K (prewar and WW2 era cars) will be a highlight that not all other historic events include on their programs,” Event Secretary, Peta Lee of the Austin 7 Club said.

She said more veteran and vintage marques will compete in Regularity One and Two events as well.

Melbourne Art Book Fair

■ Celebrating bold and experimental independent publishing from across Australia and the globe, Melbourne Art Book Fair 2026 boasts a page-turning program of books, art, exhibitions, talks, workshops, launches and more featuring publishers Giramondo, Perimeter, Books at Manic, Arts Projects Australia, Bruno (Italy), Salt and Pepper (Japan), Spector Books (Germany) and Binatang Press (Indonesia)

Running until May 24 at NGV International and venues across Melbourne , the MABF program spans books, publishing, cultural criticism, archival research, graphic design and more.

In 2026, visitors to the Fair can get their hands on a free poster from the International Poster Biennial of Mexico archive; receive a one-of-a-kind, hand-made bookmark; learn about one of the world’s oldest art books held in the NGV Collection ; and get exclusive access to some of the rarest fashion magazines in the Campbell-Pretty Fashion Archive.

TarraWarra Museum of Art

■ TarraWarra Museum of Art presents an afternoon of live music and performance on Saturday, May 30.

This First Nations music program profiles three forward-thinking artists working at the precipice of language revitalisation, sound art and experimental music.

Led by a rare live survey of vocal and sound works by internationally acclaimed artist Christian Thompson, the afternoon will also present live performances by NSW duo Sumn Conduit , comprising Dharawal woman and vocalist Sonya Holowell and modular synthesist and composer Ben Carey, alongside amby downs, the anti-colonial ambient/noise sound project of Yuwalaraay/Gamilaraay artist Tahlia Palmer.

Potter Museum of Art

■ The University of Melbourne’s Potter Museum of Art announces a major new exhibition Ngarn Wa’ngal: Art of the gum tree. Opening July 10 and running to November 21, the exhibition explores this most iconic tree as a source of creative inspiration across colonial, twentieth century and contemporary practice, and includes five significant new artist commissions.

Taking its title from the Woi Wurrung language — Ngarn wa’ngal, meaning “breathing for

Rourke’s Reviews Cicero

us” – the exhibition reflects the deep cultural and ecological significance of the gum tree as both a living presence and a powerful symbolic force.

Curated by Alisa Bunbury , Senior Curator of the Grimwade Collection at the University of Melbourne , and Guest Curator Sophie Gerhard , the exhibition features 163 artworks including colonial paintings by John Glover, Eugene von Guérard and Frederick McCubbin, 20th-century art by Arthur Boyd, Hans Heysen, Albert Namatjira, Grace Cossington Smith , and Jessie Traill, alongside leading contemporary artists including Nici Cumpston, Vincent Namatjira, Joan Ross and Christian Thompson.

Alongside artworks from the University of Melbourne’s collections and major loans from across Australia, the exhibition presents five new commissions.

Australian photographer Jane E. Brown draws on research into chemist and botanist Russell Grimwad e and early carbon printing techniques to produce intricate images of gum blossoms and gum nuts. Using an innovative process with eucalyptus oil used as a developing agent, Brown brings the material properties of the gum tree directly into the work itself.

An artist of Worimi descent Dean Cross will present There are 1000 ways to change the world, but you only need one, an installation of seed-filled papier-mâché forms, each containing manna gum seeds. Referencing the Birrarung landscape and the vulnerability of eucalypt species under climate change, the work reflects themes of regeneration and ecological futures.

Melbourne -based interdisciplinary artist megan evans will present Gust , an installation of hundreds of eucalyptus leaves collected over decades — including leaves preserved from the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires — alongside a large-scale animated work, Remanence, exploring memory and residual presence.

An Incantation for a Eucalypt, a layered installation by leading Australian artist Janet Laurence , engages with scientific classification and environmental witnessing, incorporating materials from the University's Rare Books and Archives collections, and the Victorian Herbarium. The work is structured around two themes — Cataloguing , which examines Eurocentric systems of botanical classification, and Witness, which reflects on trees as enduring observers of environmental change and the impacts of colonisation.

Award-winning Wiradjuri poet and artist Jazz Money will present a floor-based text piece accompanied by a moving image of rising smoke, opening the exhibition’s first room dedicated to First Nations perspectives.

Senior Curator Grimwade Collection Alisa Bunbury says: “Ngarn Wa’ngal encourages us to reflect upon the fundamental role of eucalypts in our society and within Australia’s natural and built environments. Surveying the many ways in which artists have used the gum tree to reflect their own relationships with this most familiar of trees, we see clearly their enduring hold on our emotions, memories, and personal and national identities. Through this recognition, it also asks us to accept responsibility for their continuity and survival as we negotiate the escalating climate emergency.”

Knowledge and connection to Country, to its role in shaping national identity and our understanding of the environ-

ment to day. Ngarn Wa’ngal: Art of the gum tree invites audiences to reconsider the eucalypt not simply as an icon, but as a living subject that continues to shape artistic, cultural and environmental narratives across generations.”

The exhibition will be accompanied by the publication, Ngarn Wa’ngal: Art of the gum tree published by Melbourne University Publishing . The richly illustrated book brings together artists, Aboriginal Elders, art historians, ecologists, poets and writers to reflect upon the eucalypt’s role in our social and art history.

A program of events will run across the exhibition's duration, starting with Saturday July 11 to mark the exhibition's opening weekend, with talks focused on the newly commissioned works. Further events include curator-led tours, interdisciplinary conversations, hands-on workshops and walking tours of significant gum trees at the University's Parkville campus.

This exhibition was inspired by Russell Grimwade’s love of eucalypts. Grimwade (1879-1955) had a life-long association with Melbourne University, bequeathing an art collection, library and support for future research, exhibiting, publishing and collection development.

The exhibition is supported by the Russell and Mab Grimwade Miegunyah Fund and Eucalypt Australia. The publication is supported by the Russell and Mab Grimwade Miegunyah Fund and The Gordon Darling Foundation.

Participating artists include: Khadim Ali, Ethel Atkinson, Thelma Austin, Rex Battarbee, Dorrit Black, John Blogg, Arthur Boyd, Merric Boyd, John Brack, Jane E. Brown, Nikki Browne, Hector Tjupuru Burton, Louis Buvelot, Robert Campbell Junior, Harold Cazneaux, Maree Clarke, Selma Nunay Coulthard, Dean Cross, Nici Cumpston, Jess Dare, Shay Docking, Peter Dombrovskis, Julie Dowling, Russell Drysdale, AW Eustace, megan evans, Adrian Feint, Rosa Fiveash, Sue Ford, William Ford, Helen Fuller, Deanne Gilson, Joshua Wickett Gliddon, John Gollings, Julie Gough, John Glover, Russell Grimwade, Henry Gritten, Eugene von Guérard, Treahna Hamm, Matthew Harris, Hans Heysen, Naomi Hobson, Wendy Hubert, Dianne Jones, Narelle Jubelin, Tjilpi Kunmanara Robin Kankapankatja, John Kauffmann, Kiah Kraftsrafts, Rosemary Laing, Janet Laurence, Lefebure and Sons, Jenna Lee, John Lewin, Sydney Long, Mildred Lovett, Brian Martin, Robyn Mayo, Frederick McCubbin, Rob McHaffie, Louisa Anne Meredith, Michelle Pulatuwayu Woody Minnapinni, Hal Missingham, Jazz Money, Eirene Mort, Albert Namatjira, Vincent Namatjira, Frederick Polydore Nodder, Ian North, Lin Onus, Jill Orr, Sydney Parkinson, Marylin Brown Petyarr, Tali Tali Pompey, Robert Prenzel, Margaret Preston, Shirley Purdie, Anita Mbitjana Ratara, Hilda Rix Nicholas, Carol Panangka Rontji, David Rose, Joan Ross, Mervyn Rubuntja, Alfred Sells, Alexander Schramm, Rebecca Selleck, Grace Cossington Smith, Yasmin Smith, Margaret Stones, Arthur Streeton, William Strutt, Stefan Szonyi, Christian Thompson, Mary Tonkin, Jessie Traill, Peter Tully, James Tylor, Hossein Valamanesh, May Vale, Gaypalani Wa?ambi, Wukun Wamambi, Lewis Wandin-Bursill, Sera Waters, Fred Williams, Dino Wilson, John Wolseley, Pedro Wonaeamirri, Gertie Yabbu, Wanapati Yunupi .

The Sheep Detectives

■ (PG). 109 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.

A surprisingly deft blend of family film (in the tradition of Babe) and Agatha Christie style murder mystery, this is one of those genuinely rare birds that will captivate both children and adults.

Hugh Jackman plays George , a gentle farmer who lives in the kind of gorgeous countryside one can only dream about.

Residing in a mobile home, George takes care of a herd of sheep, and performs an unusual ritual by reading mystery stories to them each night.

What George doesn’t realise is that the animals understand everything he is saying, and they are enthralled, wanting to solve who the culprit is in each story.

Always coming to the right conclusion is Lily (voiced by Julia Louis-Dreyfus).

When George is found dead, the sheep take it upon themselves to find out who committed the murder, and seem a step ahead of small town officer Tim Derry (Nicholas Braun)

Things become complicated when American Rebecca (Molly Gordon) and lawyer Lydia (Emma Thompson) arrive on the scene.

The script by Craig Mazin , who began his career penning awful comedies like RocketMan (1997), Scary Movie 4 (2006) and Identity Thief (2013), before moving on to much better projects like Chernobyl (2019) and The Last Of Us (2023), knows how to engage various age groups without forsaking quality writing, combining charm, humour and mystery to successful effect.

The material is then wellhandled by director Kyle Balda , showing a more measured hand than his previous efforts, such as The Lorax (2012), Minions (2015) and Despicable Me 3 (2017).

Jackman is terrific in what is fairly limited screen time, while Thompson is fine as usual.

The voice cast are all excellent, as are the visual effects. The Sheep Detectives, while not as good as the recent Hoppers, is a standout example of family entertainment.

RATING - ***½

Obsession

■ (MA). 108 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.

After creating a large fanbase with his striking short films, Curry Barker makes the jump to feature films with Obsession, and it is a confident, impressive debut.

Michael Johnston stars as Baron (who also goes by the nickname Bear ), who along with friends Ian (Cooper Tomlinson), Nikki (Inde Navarrette) and Sarah (Megan Lawless) , all work at the same music store, run by Sarah’s dad Carter (Andy Richter).

Baron has had a lifelong crush on Nikki, and wants to ask her out, but can’t build up the courage to do so.

When Nikki loses her crystal necklace, Baron goes to a local wellness/healing energy

shop to buy a new one for her, but instead walks out with something called a One Wish Willow

On the box, it says make a wish, break the toy in half, and the wish will come true.

Baron wishes Nikki would fall in love with him, but what happens next is anything but a dream come true.

While the premise seems like something out of Creepshow or Tales From The Crypt, editor/writer/director Barker uses it as a foundation to explore various themes, but mainly looks at toxic relationships and male coercive control.

While a dark sense of humour permeates throughout, as Baron’s behaviour and decisions become more and more inexcusable, the story becomes nastier, with some perfectly timed moments of startling violence.

Johnson is excellent as Baron , convincingly turning what initially appears like a likably awkward person into an unnerving representation of the worst of male entitlement.

I don’t know if it was intentional on the part of Barker , but Johnston’s facial expressions, mannerisms and hair (especially after a haircut) reminded me of horror icon Bruce Campbell Barker regular Tomlinson is funny, if a bit one note, as Ian, while Lawless is endearing as Sarah . The film, however, is stolen by Navarrette, who is simply extraordinary as Nikki As her character is increasingly forced into a hideously controlled mindset, Navarrette brilliantly executes a multitude of memorable moments, ranging from hilarious to horrific.

The ending is satisfying and meaningful. The one main quibble for me was that Barker the director isn’t strict enough on Barker the editor, allowing the film to go on longer than is necessary, with the latter portion feeling somewhat protracted (I had the same issue with his short film, Milk & Serial).

Obsession, like the outstanding recent films The Plague and Undertone, offers dramatic material with horror elements, and with its stylish visuals and effective sound design, should be seen on the big screen.

The short films of Barker that I have seen, Heavy Eyes (2022, 5 minutes) (***), The Chair (2023, 24 minutes) (****), Enigma (2023, 19 minutes) (***½), Warnings (2023, 20 minutes) (***½) and Milk & Serial (2024, 62 minutes) (***½) are all solid or better, and are readily available on YouTube. A couple certainly show he is a fan of Richard Kelly (Donnie Darko, Southland Tales, The Box).

RATING - **** Aaron Rourke

●

● Aaron Rourke

73 years on the buses

■ Dysons Bus Services became known across Victoria and beyond.

In the northern suburbs, it was the traditional Plenty Rd services that started with “four clapped out buses” on Plenty Rd with Route 46A, Regent Station to Janefield.

Further afield came the RegentWhittlesea-Kinglake route before the railway closed in the early 1960s.

West of the Darebin Creek came the East-West Bus partnership with the Cooper family’s Reservoir Bus Co., and its eventual takeover.

In the north-west came expansion with the Bell St Bus Co. and Northern Bus Lines routes.

In the east were school bus runs, especially to Yarra Valley Grammar, particularly around Box Hill and Templestowe.

Company ) and he was left looking for a new job.

Laurie soon found employment as a driver for Ned Gastin. Ned had operated the 46A between Regent Station and Janefield along Plenty Rd since 1938, largely serving a series mental asylums in Mont Park and Bundoora in what was then the semirural fringe.

In 1946 Laurie would take over the Kilford Repair Service , a service station on busy Smith St in Collingwood alongside his friends, George Dobson and Jim Rule, who ran knifesharpening business in the back room.

Editor: Ash Long

Features Editor: Peter Mac

Columnists: Len Baker, Rod Basto, Matt Bissett-Johnson, Rob Foenander, Peter Kemp, Aaron Rourke, Cheryl Threadgold, Julie Houghton, Kevin Trask

Honorary Reviewers: Juliet Charles, Sherryn Danaher, Linda Hartley, Lyn Hurst, Kathryn Keeble, Beth Klein, Graeme McCoubrie, David McLean, Maggie Morrison, Peter Murphy, Lucy Nicolson, Jill Page, Elizabeth Semmel

Logistics: Tim Granvillani, Erica Koldinsky, Tyler Sandiford

The Bus and Coach Society of Victoria says the sale ends a centurylong association with the Dyson family in the Bundoora area, dating back to 1923 when 18 year old Yorkshire -born Laurence 'Laurie" ‘Pop’ Collins Dyson migrated to Australia , and settled in Bundoora thanks to the sponsorship of local farmer Ben Weir.

Laurie soon drove milk carts for the McLean family, marrying their ninth daughter, Nina.

He enlisted as a transport driver in the Middle East during WWII.

Upon return, the McLean family had sold their milk transport business to the Cooper family (later owners of Reservoir Bus

Following the death of Ned Gastin , his nephew Jim offered Laurie Dyson the opportunity to buy Route 46A and in June 1952 L.C. Dysons Bus Service was formed, with four buses - two 1947 OB Bedfords , one 1939 Ford and one 1941 International. Plenty Rd would become the spine in the Dysons network, with additional routes being introduced as new suburbs developed north from the East Preston tram terminus, including Kingsbury, Watsonia, Bundoora, Mill Park, South Morang and more recently Mernda and Doreen

In 1957 Dysons took over the Melbourne - Nathalia bus service operated by Taylor’s , the first of many regional acquisitions.

Two years later Dysons would purchase Heather's Kinglake service, ahead of the closure of the Whittlesea railway line.

Basto,

Celebrating 57 years in local media

● Laurie ‘Pops’ Dyson

■ I was watching an old movie on television recently which featured one of my favourite Hollywood film stars.

The film was Kid Galahad and it starred Edward G. Robinson, Bette Davis, Humphrey Bogart and my favourite, Wayne Morris

Wayne Morris played the role of the young boxer in the 1937 film. Film buffs will remember that Kid Galahad was re-made in the 1960s with Elvis Presley in the title role.

There was something about Wayne Morris that I liked, he was six foot two with blond hair, good looks and a great smile.

Bert DeWayne Morris was born in Los Angeles, California , in 1914.

After graduating from High School he joined the Pasadena Playhouse and studied to be an actor.

In 1936 Bert was spotted by a Warner Brothers talent scout and signed to a studio contract.

His name was changed to Wayne Morris and his first role was a bit part in China Clipper where he played opposite Pat O’Brien and Humphrey Bogart.

As a contract actor at Warner Brothers he was cast in film after film and was soon playing larger roles.

In 1939 Wayne was in a film titled The Return of Doctor X and although Humphrey Bogart described it as, “the worst film he ever made” to me as a young boy munching on my lollies and icy pole at the Saturday afternoon matinees I thought

Whatever Happened to ... Wayne Morris

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

it was great. Wayne married Lenora Schinasi in 1939 but the marriage ended in divorce in 1940.

In 1942 Wayne joined the Navy as a fighter pilot and flew on 57 missions where he shot down seven Japanese planes and contributed to the sinking of five enemy ships.

He was awarded four Distinguished Flying Crosses and two Air Medals. Wayne was flying off the aircraft carrier USS Essex and was petrified that one of his films would be shown to the to the crew as he thought he would never “live it down”.

His younger brother Richard was also an “air ace” but was shot down and killed during World War II.

Wayne married Patricia O’Rourke, who was a former Olympic swimmer and they

were together for the rest of his life. After the war ended Wayne Morris returned to films but his career was not as successful as it had been.

He was loaned out to various studios and became well known for his B-grade westerns. He did guest appearances in many television series during the 1950s. His most significant film role came in 1957 when he was cast as a weakling in the Stanley Kubrick classic The Paths of Glory. He made his Broadway debut in a play titled The Cave Dwellers where Wayne played a “washed up” boxer.

Wayne Morris died suddenly of a massive heart attack at the age of forty five in 1959. He was aboard an aircraft carrier in San Francisco Bay watching aerial displays from the bridge at the time and was immediately transported to hospital, but was pronounced dead on arrival. Wayne had appeared in 64 films during his career. He was survived by his wife Patricia and three children. Wayne Morris was buried at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honours.

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

PETER KEMP’S LATEST NEWS IN THE ARTS

Latest Shows

Fiona Longhurst

■ Arts Project Australia presents 5 7 3 Float Fall Petals 10 Trees, a major retrospective by Melbourne-based artist Fiona Longhurst until June 13 at the APA Gallery in Collingwood Yards

Spanning more than three decades, the exhibition brings together key works tracing Longhurst’s sustained engagement with pattern, repetition, colour and hand-drawn text.

Since 1991, Longhurst has worked at the APA studio, developing a distinctive visual language defined by layered compositions, dense markmaking and intuitive structure. Drawing on repetition and memory rather than direct observation, her practice is always evolving, but immediately recognisable.

“I like colours. Beautiful yellow, orange, and pink. Mauve and grey. Blue and green. Flowers and gardens. A blue rose. Leaves, squares, the sun. Writing in colours,” said Longhurst Fiona Longhurst is known within the APA studio for her gregarious presence and strong engagement with peers and staff.

Now 75, Longhurst is an artist with Down syndrome whose life and practice reflect significant shifts in how artists with intellectual disability are supported and recognised in Australia.

Born in Tonbridge (Kent), England in 1950 and migrating to Australia in the 1960s, Longhurst’s early life included time in institutional care before transitioning into community-based supported living.

Longhurst has sustained a long-term studio practice within APA’s supported environment, enabling focus and continuity over several decades. Her career reflects the evolution of disability support models in Australia, from residential care settings to contemporary communitybased creative practice.

With works held in private collections across Australia, Longhurst has exhibited widely across Australia and internationally, including in the United States and Belgium . Her work also featured in the Gorman x APA collaboration, translating artist-led works into fashion, homewares and design.

APA Director Liz Nowell said the exhibition marks a significant milestone in Longhurst’s career, presenting work that is rigorous, intuitive and unmistakably her own.

“Fiona has developed a singular and recognisable visual language over decades. This exhibition brings her achievement into sharp focus while exemplifying Arts Project Australia’s vision to champion neurodivergent artists and artists with intellectual disability as leading voices in contemporary art,” Nowell said.

Coinciding with the exhibition, APA will launch a new partnership with Perimeter Editions, producing a series of monographs over the coming years. The inaugural volume, 5 7 3 Float Fall Petals 10 Trees, celebrates Longhurst’s work and will be available at the exhibition and via Perimeter Books

Longhurst is the subject of a 2026 Archibald Prize finalist portrait by fellow APA artist Anthony Romagnan o, her studio colleague of more than two decades.

NIDA’s production season

■ NIDA , Australia’s national dramatic arts educator, has brought together two of the country's most distinguished theatre makers: Simon Phillips and Rachael Maza . They are joined by directors Zindzi Okenyo, Anthea Williams, Dino Dimitriadis, Margaret Thanos, Claudia Osborne, Miranda Middleton, music director Zara Stanton, and playwright Keziah Warner , whose new work receives its premiere.

The eight productions are performed by third year acting students and created by students across design, costume, props and effects, technical theatre, stage management, set construction and make-up.

A Creative Partnerships/ Anita Lawrence and Bill Young

- This exhibition of prints explores the creative partnership of significant local artist Anita Lawrnece and Bill Young which has spanned more than three decades.

Anita is a painter and printmaker whose works are inspired by the connection she has with the landscapes she has called home.

Bill is a Master Printmaker specialising in large format intaglio and relief printing and has worked with many leading Australian artists during his career.

Anita and Bill expired printmaking throughout their careers – Anita’s focus has been on place while Bill has been on the process.

Exhibition closes June 28.

★

Cabbage Salad – Anna Dehm

Anna Dehim is an emerging artist whose works explore rhythm, movement and inclusive form.

Working with ,markers and mixed media techniques including collage, she creates striking compositions where freeform shapes merge and unfold into intricate, memorising problems.

Exhibition closes May 41.

★

Mysteries of the Great Ocean Road – Jane Coy

Jane Coy presents a series of prints based on her watercolour paintings inspired by the dramatic landscapes and wildlife of the Great Ocean Road accompanied by a selection of associated wildlife dioramas that reflect the regions unique natural environment.,

Exhibition closes May 31.

Salt Contemporary Art 33-35 Hesse St, Queenscliff

★

Feathers & Flight

Our feathered companions often signify freedom and hope. Bearing omens, singing songs, holding secrets.

Marrying the earth with the sky birds vary memories from prehistoric times, echoing through over 150 million years of evolution.

Feathers & Flight brings together works by Bridget Thomas, Dean Bowen, Dianne Fogwell, Gillian Lodge, Gus Leunig, Kate GorringeSmith, Clay Gibson. Martin King and Suer Anderson. Each artist offers an unique perspective of the mystical and alluring facets of our avian companions. Nestled in a landscape, in flight, watching over.

Exhibition closes May 29.

Benalla Art Gallery

Botanical Gardens, Bridge St, Benalla Bunjil Place

The Offbeat Sari

A major exhibition celebrating the contemporary Sari. This exhibition unravels its numerous forms demonstrating the sari to be a metaphor for the layered and complex definitions of India today. It brings together the finest t saris of our time from designers, wearers and craftspeople of India.

In recent years the sari has been reinvented.

Designers are experimenting with hybrid forms such as sari gowns and dresses, pre-draped saris and innovative materials such as steel. People in cities who used to associate the sari with dressing up can now be found wearing saris and sneakers on their commutes to work. Individuals are wearing he sari as an expression of resistance to social norms and activities are embodying it as an object of protest.

Bunjil Place

2 Patrick North East Drive, Narre Warren Peter Kemp

Amrum

■ Amrum takes its name from an island off the German North Sea coast and serves as the backdrop for Fatih Akin’s film.

Set in 1945, the islanders of this tiny, rural community eke out the final days of the war on the bleak, windswept island, digging potatoes, hosting refugees, and trying to make sense of the approaching new world order.

Twelve-year-old Nanning (Jasper Billerbeck) lives with his mother, aunt and siblings in a house dominated by a Nazi flag. Nanning and his friend Hermann (Kian Köppke) work for potato farmer Tessa (Diane Kruger) in exchange for milk.

Nanning’s father, an SS officer, is not on the island, fighting the war for the Reich on the mainland.

Nanning’s heavily pregnant mother Hille (Laure Tonke) remains an ardent B in a village where most inhabitants are not.

On the day Hitler is announced dead, Hille goes into labour, and into a deep depression. Fearing for his family’s future, Nanning embarks on a quest to obtain the impossible to cure his mother’s depression: white bread, real butter and honey.

Along the way, Nanning learns life lessons and family secrets from the eccentric residents, including fishmonger Sam Gangsters (Lars Jessen) , as he works and haggles his way toward his goal.

Amrum carries its baggage with it.

Even as we root for Nanning, dressed in his Hitler Youth uniform, we feel conflicted.

Intellectually, we understand the impact on ordinary Germans as they confront the disintegration of a belief system ingrained since birth, especially for children conscripted into Nazi youth movements.

Emotionally, we can’t escape the memory of the heinous crimes committed.

Yet, at its heart, Amrum is a tender, coming-of-age story that, in its final shot, appeals to hope and a better future.

Amrum opens in Melbourne as the Centrepiece Premiere of the 2026 German Film Festival on May 10, with screenings at various Palace Cinemas

The film is featured in the festival, which runs from May 8-27.

Review by Kathryn Keeble.

St Mary’s, Alexandra

■ At St Mary’s school we encourage an inclusive, learning community that values safety, love and faith.

St Mary’s Vision Statement

At St Mary’s School Alexandra, we hold the care, safety and wellbeing of children and young people as a central and fundamental responsibility of our school.

Our commitment is drawn from and inherent to the teaching and mission of Jesus Christ, with love, justice and the sanctity of each human person at the heart of the gospel

This is central to the motto of our school which is: Love One Another.

St Mary’s Alexandra is committed to Child Safety.

MACS Governance Statement

St Mary’s Primary School, Alexandra is a school which operates with the consent of the Catholic Archbishop of Melbourne and is operated and governed by Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools Ltd (MACS).

MACS governs and operates Catholic schools in the Archdiocese to continue the mission of Catholic education to proclaim the Good News and equip our young people with the knowledge, skills, and hope to live

■ SCHOOL: St Mary’s, Alexandra

■ PRINCIPAL: Jenny Allatt

■ ADDRESS: 10 Myrtle St, Alexandra, Vic 3714

■ PHONE: 5772 1500

■ WEBSITE: www.smalexandra. catholic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: principal@smalexandra. catholic.edu.au

meaningful lives and enrich the world around them.

Because the good work of educating the young is a co-responsible task led by every member of the Catholic school community, School Advisory Councils have been established to provide a crucial point of connection between the wider school community and school leaders.

This governance model was designed to ease the administrative burden on our schools and parishes, allow parish priests to focus on the mission of education in the parish, enable greater collaboration between schools and ensure greater consistency in school policies and procedures.

More information about MACS is available at www.macs.vic.edu.au.

North-Eastern Montessori School, St Helena

“When you start to think differently about what school could be.”

At North-Eastern Montessori School, we support children from their earliest years through to adolescence, offering a consistent, personalised approach that grows with them.

Families are drawn to our school seeking an education that is thoughtful, responsive, and grounded in a deep understanding of how children learn best.

From our Toddler and Early Years programs through to Primary and our Middle Years program, we provide continuity in both learning and relationships, allowing each child to feel secure, known, and supported. Small class sizes and a strong focus on connection allow students to work at their own pace, developing independence, confidence, and meaningful engagement with their learning.

Educators guide and challenge each student, balancing care, encouragement and high expectations.

■ SCHOOL: North Eastern Montessori School

■ ADDRESS: 315 Aqueduct Rd, St Helena, Vic 3088

■ PHONE: 9438 3202

■ WEBSITE: wwww.northeastern. vic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: hello@northeastern. vic.edu.au

Set within a beautiful environment, our school provides a genuine feeling of calm, community and happiness. Students develop a strong sense of belonging and a natural enthusiasm for coming to school each day — reflected in our consistently high attendance of around 95 percent.

North-Eastern Montessori School offers something truly special: a seamless journey from early childhood to secondary where young people are nurtured to grow, discover their strengths and develop with confidence.

Mernda Park Primary School

Mernda Park Primary School: A Community of Learners

Mernda Park Primary School (MPPS) stands as a vibrant heart of our local community, committed to providing a high-quality education that prepares every student for a successful future.

As we celebrate Education Week 2026, we invite you to discover the dedication and passion that define our school.

Our state-of-the-art Learning Communities are designed to foster a focused and supportive environment.

At MPPS, we prioritise a rigorous curriculum with a strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy, ensuring our students build the essential foundations needed for lifelong achievement.

This academic core is enriched by diverse specialist programs, including Physical Education, Performing Arts, Visual Arts, and Japanese, allowing students to explore their talents and interests.

We believe that education is a true part

■ SCHOOL: Mernda Park Primary School

■ ADDRESS: 40 Riverdale Rd, Mernda, Vic 3754

■ PHONE: 8776 9700

■ WEBSITE: www.merndaparkps. vic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: mernda.park.ps@ education.vic.gov.au

nership between the school and our families. By working closely together, we create a safe, inclusive environment where every child is known, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

From our enthusiastic performances in the Community Hub to our active student leadership, the spirit of MPPS is driven by a shared commitment to excellence.

We welcome families to visit and see firsthand why Mernda Park Primary School is the ideal place for your child to grow and thrive

St Francis Xavier, Box Hill

■ Our vision, ‘a caring faith community fostering welcome, inclusion and a love of learning’ is at the heart of everything we do.

We are a culturally diverse school that treasures the richness this brings as our students learn what it means to belong to a school in the Franciscan tradition.

St Francis Xavier's story as a man of faith who ventured to many countries, learning the languages and cultures of the people he met, inspires us.

He was a brave, courageous, risk-taker, always willing to push himself and meet the challenges he encountered.

We want this for our students: to be lifelong learners who always give their best effort and work hard to build and sustain positive relationships.

Our core values of trust, respect, forgiveness and care drive our interactions with one another as teachers, students and

■ SCHOOL: St Francis Xavier Box Hill

■ PRINCIPAL: Mary Jones

■ ADDRESS: 1087 Whitehorse Rd, Box Hill, Vic 3128

■ PHONE: 9890 1108

■ WEBSITE: www.sfxboxhill. catholic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: enquiries@sfxboxhill. catholic.edu.au

families, and guide us in being our best selves.

St Francis Xavier has a rigorous learning program that prioritises wellbeing so that every student can feel confident, safe and ready to learn.

This enables optimal learning for all and makes our classrooms calm, settled learning spaces where all can succeed. We welcome all families to come and visit and experience this wonderful learning environment for themselves.

St Martin De Porres, Avondale Heights

■ St Martin de Porres catholic primary school is a place where faith, learning, and community come together to nurture every child’s potential.

At the heart of our early literacy approach is the highly effective UFLI Phonics program, which provides explicit, systematic instruction to ensure all students become confident, capable readers.

This strong foundation is complemented by contemporary teaching practices that are evidence-based, engaging, and responsive to the needs of every learner.

Our dedicated teachers create dynamic classrooms where curiosity is encouraged and students are empowered to take ownership of their learning.

Technology is thoughtfully integrated to enhance outcomes, while a strong focus on wellbeing ensures every child feels safe, supported, and valued.

We are a Positive Behaviours for Learning School and we explicitly teach the behaviours we want to see.

■ SCHOOL: St Martin de Porres Catholic Primary School

■ PRINCIPAL: Stefanie Harvey

■ ADDRESS: 158 Military Rd Avondale Heights, Vic 3034

■ PHONE: 9369 1070

■ WEBSITE: www.smdplaverton. catholic.edu.au/

■ EMAIL: principal@smavondale heights.catholic.edu.au

Beyond the classroom, our school boasts spacious, well-maintained grounds that offer room to play, explore, and grow.

Lunchtime clubs provide rich opportunities for students to pursue interests, build friendships, and develop new skills— whether in sport, arts, or leadership.

Above all, our vibrant, faith filled and diverse community is what truly sets us apart. Families, staff, and students work in partnership, creating a sense of belonging where every child is known and cared for. We invite you to come and see our school!

Orchard Grove Primary School, Blackburn North

■ Orchard Grove Primary School warmly invites families and community members to attend our upcoming Open Night on Tuesday 19th May.

This night is a wonderful opportunity to experience our strong sense of community and see our students actively engaged in their learning. The evening will begin at 6:00pm with a welcome from our School Captains, followed by an opportunity to explore classrooms across the school.

Open Night is designed to showcase the engaging learning experiences that take place every day at Orchard Grove.

Families will have the chance to view student work and participate alongside students in short, interactive 10–15 minute lessons in Mathematics, Literacy and Inquiry.

These sessions provide a valuable insight into classroom learning and allow students to proudly share their achievements.

■ SCHOOL: Orchard Grove Primary School

■ ASST. PRINCIPAL: Andrew Moore

■ ADDRESS: 101 Orchard Grove, Blackburn South, Vic 3130

■ PHONE: 9894 3400

■ WEBSITE: https:// orchgveps.vic.edu.au/

■ EMAIL: Andrew.Moore3@ education.vic.gov.au

For families new to the school, guided tours will be available, departing from the office between 6.15pm and 6.30pm, offering a closer look at our learning environment and programs.

The evening will conclude at 7.15pm with a performance from our talented Diwali dancers. Here at Orchard Grove, we are proud of the rich cultural backgrounds that make up our school community, and we take great joy in celebrating this diversity.

St Dominic’s Primary School, Camberwell East

St. Dominic’s -

A message from our Principal.

My name is Natalie Kenny and it is my honour and privilege to lead the St. Dominic’s school community.

As a Catholic educator of more than 30 years and a parent of two, I deeply understand the importance of selecting the right primary school for your child and family.

Choosing a school is a significant decision for every family.

We invite you to visit us and experience our learning culture, meet our community, and ask the questions that matter most to you at this very important time for your family.

At St.Dominic’s we pride ourselves on being a warm, welcoming, supportive and inclusive community and we deeply value the partnership between school and home.

Every child is truly valued, known, celebrated and empowered and are always at the heart of all we do.

We believe that wellbeing is central to successful learning. Children who feel happy, confident and supported form strong connections, achieve positive learning outcomes and flourish in all aspects of school life.

This is at the core of our work and our community. At St.Dominic’s we truly live the African proverb,”It takes a village to raise a child”.

Our Dominican Charism shapes everything we do: grounded in Prayer, Learning Service and Community, which is lived and celebrated daily.

St. Dominic’s offers diverse, enriching and engaging learning programs, contemporary learning spaces, strong student voice and agency and tailored learning support.

We have dedicated and professional staff who are committed to each child’s growth.

■ SCHOOL: St Dominic’s Primary School, Camberwell

■ PRINCIPAL: Natalie Kenny

■ ADDRESS: 145 Highfield Rd, Camberwell East, Vic 3124

■ PHONE: 9836 8300

■ WEBSITE: www.sdcamberwelleat. catholic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: wdalton@sdcamberwell east.catholic.edu.au

to discover the St. Dom’s Difference for yourself.

Often described as ‘the hidden gem of Camberwell’, I warmly invite you and your family

St Dominic’s School, Broadmeadows

■ St. Dominic’s School is a Catholic school community where your child will experience belonging and be both challenged and supported to reach beyond their boundaries.

As a richly diverse learning community, our students thrive in knowing they are known and valued.

In partnership with families, we build positive relationships that enable each child to flourish and exemplify our school motto, “Let your light shine” (Matthew 5:16).

We hold a vision of high-quality, affordable Catholic education for our local community.

Our staff are committed to providing engaging teaching and learning experiences that interweave wellbeing and academic growth, ensuring every student develops a strong sense of belonging.

■ SCHOOL: St Dominic’s School, Broadmeadows

■ CONTACT: Katie Broadbent

■ ADDRESS: 408 Camp Rd, Broadmeadows, Vic 3047

■ PHONE: 9309 4146

■ WEBSITE: www.sdbroadmeadows. catholic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: kbroadbent@ sdbroadmeadows.catholic.edu.au

St Aloysius College, North Melbourne

■ SCHOOL: St Aloysius College

■ PRINCIPAL: Mary Farah

■ ADDRESS: Boundary Rd, North Melbourne, Vic 3051

■ PHONE: 9325 9200

■ WEBSITE: www.aloysius.vic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: irvinem@ aloysius.vic.edu.au

St Aloysius College Opens the Doors to Senior Years Campus

St Aloysius College will open its new purpose-built Senior Years Campus, at the commencement of Term 3.

Located on Boundary Road, North Melbourne, the six-level campus has been designed to cater to the unique and emerging learning needs of VCE students, providing contemporary spaces that reflect the demands of senior study and life beyond school.

The campus features flexible learning spaces, specialist science facilities, collaborative study areas, student breakout zones and a rooftop terrace overlooking the city skyline. The environment is built to foster independence, academic excellence and genuine connection.

Principal Mary Farah said the campus marks an exciting new chapter for the College community.

“This campus has been thoughtfully created to inspire ambition, curiosity and confidence in our senior students," she said.

St. Dominic’s is a Child Safe School with zero tolerance for child abuse. We value the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of every student, and warmly invite you to visit and experience our welcoming community.

Our rich liturgical life, student leadership opportunities, and student-driven lunchtime clubs—including Lego, Robotics, Gardening, Choir, and more—support all members of our community to live a life centred in faith, hope, and love.

Canterbury Girls’ Secondary College

■ Recognised for its strong culture and quality teaching, Canterbury Girls’ Secondary College empowers students not just to succeed, but to contribute meaningfully and lead with purpose in an increasingly complex world.

Canterbury Girls’ Secondary College creates a community defined by belonging, shared purpose and pride. Confidence is built, voices are strengthened, and young women learn to shape their own futures. At its heart is a powerful sense of connection—between students, families, staff and alumni.

As one of the state’s few government all-girls’ schools, Canterbury Girls’ Secondary College offers a learning environment where every student is truly known and supported. Individuality is celebrated, while shared values guide students to grow with clarity, courage and self-belief. Students succeed academically at Canterbury Girls’ Secondary College. Evidence-informed teaching, high expectations and a culture of curiosity ensure

"It reflects our commitment to providing future-focused learning environments while remaining deeply grounded in the Mercy values at the heart of St Aloysius College."

The opening of the Senior Years Campus marks a significant milestone in the College's continued growth, and a bold step in its Journey of Excellence.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Ringwood

■ SCHOOL: Canterbury Girls’ secondary College

■ PRINCIPAL: Julie Niamh

■ ADDRESS: Mangarra Rd, Canterbury, Vic 3126

strong academic growth and VCE success. Students are challenged to think deeply, take intellectual risks.

Canterbury Girls’ Secondary College offers, a rich co-curricular program spanning music, sport, leadership and community engagement building resilience, creativity and adaptability. Students develop agency and confidence, learning to lead with integrity and intent.

■ Our Lady of Perpetual Help is a welcoming Catholic Primary School in Ringwood, with a proud history of over 90 years.

Our school is a place where students thrive in their learning, grow in faith, and build a strong sense of community.

We focus on academic excellence, spiritual development, service to others, and helping each child grow personally.

We believe in treating everyone with respect, kindness, and celebrating what makes each person unique.

At Our Lady’s your voice, your story, and your identity are important. We are committed to creating a community where everyone, no matter their background or beliefs, feels valued, included, and empowered.

■ NAME: Our Lady of Perpetual Help

■ PRINCIPAL: Jennifer Rohan

■ ADDRESS: 2 Wilana St, Ringwood, Vic 3134

■ PHONE: 980 7227

■ EMAIL: principal@olringwood. catholic.edu.au

Our academic programs are designed to challenge and support each child, helping them reach their full potential. Our dedicated teachers and staff are here to guide and encourage your child’s success. Small class size caters for all needs

We warmly invite you to visit us and take a tour of our school!

Box Hill North Primary School

Every Student known. Every student challenged. Every student supported.

Now enrolling for Prep 2027

At Box Hill North Primary School, we are clear about our purpose. Every student is entitled to strong teaching that meets them at their point of need and moves their learning forward.

From the first year of school, we take a deliberate approach to teaching and learning, grounded in responsive teaching. Teachers use regular, structured assessment to understand what each student knows and what they are ready to learn next. This informs daily practice, ensuring that support and extension are provided as required.

Our Prep program sets the foundation for future success. Students begin with explicit, carefully sequenced instruction in literacy and numeracy, alongside the routines and habits that support learning. Classrooms are calm, focused and purposeful, allowing students to build confidence and independence from the outset.

Over time, students develop strong academic foundations and the ability to think, apply their learning, and take responsibil-

■ SCHOOL: Box Hill North Primary School

■ CONTACT: Sarah Thomas

■ ADDRESS: 7-9 Elizabeth St, Box Hill North, Vic 3129

■ PHONE: 9890 5023

■ WEBSITE: www.bhnps.vic.edu.au

ty for their progress. Wellbeing is embedded within this work through consistent classrooms, clear expectations and strong relationships between teachers and students.

We work in partnership with families to ensure every student’s success. Communication is clear and purposeful, giving families a strong understanding of their child’s progress and how learning can be supported at home.

We are proud that our Prep program is led by a teacher recognised with a 2025 Victorian Education Excellence Award, reflecting the quality of teaching and commitment to student growth at our school.

If you are considering Prep for 2027, we invite you to visit and see our classrooms in action.

Book a tour with the Principal today.

Good Samaritan Primary School, Roxburgh Park

■ Good Samaritan Catholic Primary School (GSCPS) is a culturally rich and diverse learning community. It has been part of the Roxburgh Park community for 30 years.

Our School is inspired by the parable of the Good Samaritan, which illuminates the life-giving influence of justice, compassion, mercy and respect.

We strongly value partnership with families and recognise that education is most successful when schools and families work together.

The collaborative partnership between child, family and school strengthens learning, wellbeing and belonging.

We are a school of high expectations and as such “Our dream for each child is a life fully lived”.

At the heart of everything we do is the child. Guided by our Christian faith, our approach to curriculum and pedagogy nurtures and empowers students with the knowledge, skills and capabilities they need for lifelong learning and to live life to the

■ SCHOOL: Good Samaritan Catholic Primary School

■ PRINCIPAL: Nancy Greige

■ ADDRESS: 1-29 Southern Cross Drive, Roxburgh Park, Vic 3064

■ PHONE: 9308 6177

■ WEBSITE: www.goodsam. catholic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: office@goodsam. catholic.edu.au

Our school provides a safe, inclusive and engaging learning community where each child passes through Learning Villages that are developmentally appropriate to their age and stage of learning.

Each child experiences a variety of learning environments of ever increasing complexity and challenge, fostering creativity, promoting strong interpersonal relationships and stimulating excitement and wonder for the world around them.

Marian College, Sunshine West

■ Marian College is a vibrant Catholic learning community committed to educational excellence and a future focused approach to teaching and learning.

Grounded in faith and Gospel values, the College nurtures each student to grow academically, spiritually, socially and emotionally in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Educational excellence at Marian College is driven by high expectations, evidencebased teaching practice and a strong culture of continuous improvement.

Our dedicated staff work collaboratively to deliver engaging, contemporary curriculum programs that challenge students and support them to achieve their personal best.

Student wellbeing is central to all we do at Marian, ensuring our young people feel seen, valued and empowered to succeed.

With a strong future focus, Marian College embraces innovation, digital technologies and realworld learning experiences to prepare students for a rapidly changing world.

■ SCHOOL: Marian College, Sunshine West

■ PRINCIPAL: Angela Romano

■ ADDRESS: 196 Glengala Rd, Sunshine West, Vic 3020

■ PHONE: 9363 1711

■ WEBSITE: www.mariansw. catholic.edu.au

Critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and adaptability are embedded across learning programs, enabling students to become confident problem solvers, lifelong learners and global citizens.

Strong links with community, tertiary pathways and vocational opportunities further support students to make informed choices about their future.

Through a balance of academic rigour, pastoral care and forwardthinking education, Marian College prepares students not only for academic success, but for meaningful, purposedriven lives beyond the classroom.

Old Orchard Primary School, Blackburn North

■ Old Orchard Primary School provides a nurturing and supportive environment, with high standards and expectations of all students and a commitment to both academic achievement and student wellbeing.

The acquisition of high-level literacy and numeracy skills is at the centre of our curriculum, in accordance with the Victorian Curriculum and guided by the Victorian Teaching and Learning Model 2.0. High quality specialist programs are offered in STEM, Music / Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Physical Education and Mandarin.

Our modern library caters for all students and actively promotes a love of literature and reading. Many of our extra-curricular programs are linked to the specialist programs and provide genuine enrichment opportunities for our students.

Our school culture is exemplary, with positive connections and interactions consistently on display.

We have a range of wellbeing programs that fall within the School Wide Positive Behaviour Support framework.

■ SCHOOL: Old Orchard Primary School

■ PRINCIPAL: Duncan Cant

■ ADDRESS: 70-88 Koonung Rd, Blackburn North, Vic 3130

■ PHONE: 9877 7899

■ WEBSITE: www.oldorchardps.vic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: old.orchard.ps@ education.vic.gov.au

Values such as respect, tolerance, honesty, perseverance, trust and compassion are actively taught and there is a commitment to promoting resilience and optimism in students.

We welcome the opportunity to show you around our wonderful school and chat about its many outstanding features.

Open Evening: Thursday May 28th 5.00

– 7.00pm

Please visit our website for school tour details.

Mahogany Rise Primary School, Framkston North

■ Welcome to Mahogany Rise Primary School.

It is a privilege to lead such a vibrant and caring school community where every child is known, valued, and supported to achieve their best.

Our vision — “Every child and family is successful in learning and life” — guides everything we do and is complimented by our school expectations of ‘Be a Learner, Be Respectful and Be Safe’.

Our vision and expectations reflect our unwavering belief that education extends beyond the classroom, shaping confident, capable, and compassionate individuals.

At Mahogany Rise, our teaching is grounded in explicit instruction, ensuring every student receives clear, structured, and engaging lessons that build strong foundational skills and confidence as learners.

This evidence-based approach provides consistency across classrooms and supports every child to experience success in their learning.

We are equally committed to nurturing wellbeing. Each day, our students and staff come together in our school dining room, where every child is provided with a nutritious meal.

■ SCHOOL: Mahogany Rise Primary School

■ CONTACT: Michelle

■ ADDRESS: 23 Jenkens St, Frabkston North, Vic 3200

■ PHONE: 9786 3211

■ WEBSITE: www.mahoganyriseps. vic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: mahogany.rise.ps@ education.vic.gov.au

This daily routine fosters a sense of belonging, connection, and community, while ensuring that all students are ready to learn and thrive.

Our dedicated staff use data-driven and positive education practices, drawing on the Berry Street Education Model to create safe, inclusive, and predictable learning environments.

We work closely with families and community partners to ensure that every child’s academic, social, and emotional needs are met with care and high expectations.

I warmly invite you to visit our school, meet our wonderful staff and students, and experience the welcoming spirit that makes Mahogany Rise such a special place to learn and grow.

Mernda Central College

■ Mernda Central P–12 College is a vibrant and inclusive school at the heart of the Mernda community, delivering high-quality education from Prep to Year 12.

With a strong commitment to excellence, wellbeing and inclusion, the College offers a supportive and engaging environment where every student is empowered to achieve their personal best.

For our youngest learners, the early years are shaped in a warm and nurturing environment where students grow socially, emotionally and academically.

Strong foundations in literacy and numeracy are developed through engaging and differentiated programs, inspiring curiosity, independence and a lifelong love of learning.

Teaching and learning place explicit instruction at the centre of classroom practice, ensuring clarity, consistency and strong outcomes for all learners, strengthened by a valued partnership between students, families and staff.

Students benefit from a broad and engaging curriculum with diverse subject op-

■ SCHOOL: Mernda Central College

■ CONTACT: Amy Pignatelli

■ ADDRESS: 70 Beadalbane Ave, Mernda, Vic 3754

■ PHONE: 8776 9600

■ WEBSITE: www.merndacentral p12college.vic.edu.au/

■ EMAIL: mernda.central.p12@ education.vic.gov.au

tions supporting individual interests and future pathways, including Japanese language studies, vocational education pathways, a Rugby Academy and targeted learning enhancement programs.

Beyond the classroom, a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, including Energy Breakthrough, Instrumental Music, and camps and excursions, enrich the student experience.

The College prepares students for life beyond school through strong careers and pathways programs, developing confident, capable and connected young people.

Emmanuel College, Altona North

■ At Emmanuel College, students are at the centre of everything we do. Our commitment to outstanding Catholic education ensures every student is supported to learn, grow, and thrive, from Year 7 to 12.

Guided by our Marianist tradition, students experience a strong focus on both academic excellence and belonging, helping them develop confidence, compassion, and a sense of purpose.

Learn Well at Emmanuel is our approach to strengthening student learning through engaging classroom experiences, explicit teaching, and greater opportunities for academic success. Students are supported to build deeper understanding, confidence, and strong learning habits that prepare them for the future.

Our Calm Classrooms model ensures students benefit from safe, respectful, and supportive learning environments that promote positive relationships, belonging, and

■ SCHOOL: Emmanuel Collge

■ CONTACT: Tarryn

■ ADDRESS: 423 Blackshaws Rd, Altona North, Vic 3025

■ PHONE: 0402 814 666

■ WEBSITE: www.ecmelb. catholic.edu.au

readiness for learning.

Across our St Paul’s Boys Campus in Altona North and Co-educational Campus in Point Cook, students have access to a broad range of academic, vocational, and leadership pathways, providing opportunities to explore interests, prepare for future careers, and discover their individual strengths.

Our vision is the creation of an inclusive community where every student feels valued, connected, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Our Lady of Sion College, Box Hill

■ Our Lady of Sion College is a community where every young person is welcomed into a culture grounded in dignity, respect and genuine care.

Inspired by the charism of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion, our story is shaped by hope, reconciliation, justice and compassion, values that are lived each day through our relationships, learning and community spirit.

At the heart of our mission is our motto, Truth in Love. It calls us to seek understanding with compassion, pursue excellence with humility, and engage with generosity and respect.

A defining feature of Sion is our strong sense of belonging. Students are known and valued, staff foster meaningful connections, and our learning environment supports curiosity, confidence and growth. Through the benefits of all-girls education,

■ SCHOOL: Our Lady of Sion College

■ ADDRESS: 1065 Whitehorse Rd, Box Hill, Vic 3128

■ PHONE: 9890 9097

■ WEBSITE: wwww.sion.catholic. edu.au

our students are empowered to develop as capable learners, leaders and young women.

Our vision is to uncover the excellence within every student, inspire a lifelong commitment to justice, and nurture young people who will meet a changing world with courage, integrity and purpose.

I warmly invite you to visit our College and experience firsthand a community that embraces inclusion, cultivates excellence and nurtures hope. We look forward to welcoming you.

Holy Family Primary School, Mount Waverley

■ At Holy Family Primary School, we foster a nurturing, faith-filled environment where every child is known, valued and supported to flourish academically, socially and emotionally.

Our school culture is built on strong routines, explicit teaching and high expectations that create calm, purposeful learning environments.

We use evidence-based approaches to teaching and learning, ensuring students are supported and challenged to achieve growth and success.

Our literacy program includes a structured synthetic phonics approach with a strong focus on morphology and vocabulary development to strengthen reading comprehension, spelling and writing skills.

Teachers use ongoing assessment and targeted feedback to meet individual learning needs.

Student wellbeing is central to school life. Through our Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) framework and strong focus on men

■ SCHOOL: Holy Family School, Mount Waverley

■ PRINCIPAL: Julie David

■ ADDRESS: 250 Stephensons Rd, Mount Waverley, Vic 3149

■ PHONE: 9807 3300

■ WEBSITE: www.hfmw.catholic. edu.au

■ EMAIL: principal@hfmw. catholic.edu.au

tal health and wellbeing, students develop resilience, confidence and positive relationships.

Holy Family values strong partnerships with families and the wider community. We also enjoy close links with Salesian College and Avila College, supporting smooth transition pathways for our students.

Guided by our Catholic faith, we strive to nurture compassionate, confident and capable learners.

Education Week

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VIC. TRAVELLERS PAY MOST, JUST TO GET TO THE AIRPORT

■ Victorian travellers are paying more than anyone else in Australia just to get to the airport.

Transport costs average $49.79 per trip, the highest in the country, before parking, food or baggage fees are even factored in.

New data from Send My Bag’s Australian Travel Index, which surveyed 2000 Australians between late February and March this year, reveals:

■ Over one-third of Victorians (35.15 per cent) are spending $50–$100 just to get to the airport

■ Nearly four in 10 (38.46 per cent) are paying $101–$200 on airport parking per trip

■ Almost one in three Victorian travellers (30.51 per cent) have been hit with unexpected baggage fees

Those caught out are typically paying $100–$199 just to check a bag. Travellers are also spending an average of $31.54 on food and drink before take-off

Rombination of travel disruption, rising fuel costs and hidden fees is driving up costs of flying.

School o

■ The Alice Spr of the Air Visitor year celebrates sharing one of A most unique an d education stori e world.

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Through engagi and personalised t gain insight into tion, resilience, and that has shape d Springs School of continues to supp education today.

● Melbourne Airport.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2026

Bush Telegraph Whiparound

Transmission lines

■ Victorian Farmers Federation Acting President, Peter Star, has commented on the Victorian Coalition’s announcement to pause the VNI West and WRL transmission line projects.

“The reckless VNI West and WRL transmission lines are failed projects that threaten to tear generational farming families apart and destroy the best farmland in the country,” Mr Star said.

"This pause is a well-overdue acknowledgment that these projects are deeply flawed, but a pause alone is not enough. They should be scrapped entirely and we will keep fighting until that happens.”

Alpaca Week success

■ The Australian Alpaca Association celebrated local farmers and the advancement and growth of the alpaca industry in Australia with the return of its 36th annual National Alpaca Week, from May 2-10.

“With no better time to celebrate the farmers and producers on our home shores, National Alpaca Week is an opportunity to engage with Australia’s most charming farm animals through open farms, fleece demonstrations and youth workshops. National Alpaca Week provides an opportunity to get up close and personal with alpacas and learn about their growing role in both farming and fashion.”

FIRST FEMALE MINING WARDEN APPOINTED

■ Karen Streckfuss has been appointed Victoria’s Mining Warden for a period of three years.

The Mining Warden plays an important role in investigating and attempting to resolve mining related disputes by mediation, conciliation and arbitration.

The Mining Warden can also make recommendations to the Minister for Energy and Resources

Licence holders, landholders and community members can bring mining related disputes to the Mining Warden, including disagreements about land access and boundaries covered by a licence or an application.

Ms Streckfuss brings a wealth of experience to this role. She is an accredited mediator with extensive experience conducting mediations and conciliations, including on sensitive matters.

She has previously been on the Mediators List for several courts and tribunals.

She is also a member of the Victorian Bar and has practised as a barrister for 27 years, with prior experience as a solicitor.

“If parties can agree on a resolution, they are generally going to have more buy in than if a solution is imposed on them,” Ms Streckfuss said. “I am looking forward to helping people to resolve their disputes in my role as Mining Warden.”

Capital gains hit

■ The Victorian Farmers Federation called on Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers to rule out changes to capital gains tax concessions on farm transfers in last night’s Federal Budget VFF Acting President Peter Star said the gap between what a farm is worth on paper and what it earns has never been wider.

For Young Women

■ Young women in regional Australia at risk of disengaging from school or leaving care without support will soon have access to a national mentoring program

The Warrior Woman Foundation is expanding beyond NSW and QLD, with a new online model designed to reach regional communities where services like this are often limited or non-existent.

The Charity's Founder, J essica Brown, says the real difference having access to support like this can make, including:

■ How confidence and job-readiness are changing for young women who have access to consistent support

■ Why online mentoring is becoming essential for regional and rural communities

■ Why financial literacy is still a major barrier for young women entering independence in regional Australia

● ● Karen Streckfuss

Places To Go: Mid-Year Travel

Places To Go: Mid-Year Travel

Places To Go: Mid-Year Travel

Places To Go: Mid-Year Travel

WEDNEDAY, MAY 13, 2026

In The Pink

Discharge delays

■ Ageing Australia says that it welcomes the establishment of joint inquiries into older people facing delayed discharge from hospitals by State and Federal Governments

A new national hospital discharge joint taskforce will look at ways to improve outcomes for older patients, while a separate enquiry by the NSW Productivity Commission will recommend ways of reducing discharge delays, improving access to care and relieving pressure on hospitals.

“Too often, older people are being left to languish in hospital far longer than necessary. But the solutions to this problem are constantly oversimplified, which makes real progress impossible,” Ageing Australia CEO Tom Symondson said.

Staff levels at risk

■ Victoria’s public hospital mandated nursing and midwifery safe staffing levels are at risk under a Wilson Liberal Government, says Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (Victorian Branch) Assistant Secretary Nicole Allan . Announcements flagged to slash more than 7000 public sector jobs have put nurses and midwives on high alert, said Ms Allan. “History tells us that Liberal Governments go after nurse/midwife patient ratios and they don’t support or understand mandated minimum safe staffing.”

PALLIATIVE CARE QUESTION TIME

■ Australians are being encouraged to start important conversations about palliative and end-of-life care as National Palliative Care Week takes place.

Running until Saturday (May c16), this year’s NPCW campaign, Getting to the heart of it: Big Questions. Real Answers, encourages people to ask questions, seek trusted information and talk about what matters most.

Palliative Care Australia Interim CEO Simon Waring said the week is an opportunity to improve understanding of palliative care and encourage earlier conversations.

“Too many Australians still think palliative care is only for the very end of life, when in reality it can begin much earlier and sit alongside other treatments,” Mr Waring said.

“Palliative care is about helping people with a life-limiting illness live as well as possible, for as long as possible. It supports comfort, dignity and quality of life, while also helping families, carers and loved ones.”

“This year, we are encouraging Australians to ask the big questions: What matters most to me? What care would help me live well? Who needs to know my wishes? And what support is available for the people around me?” Mr Waring said.

Simon Waring

The Pulse Danger to rebates

■ Private Healthcare Australia has warned the Federal Government’s proposed changes to the private health insurance rebate for older Australians could threaten the viability of dozens of private hospitals that regional communities rely on for essential healthcare.

PHA said many private hospitals serving large populations of older Australians are at risk of a significant reduction in patient activity if thousands of seniors are forced to drop or downgrade their health insurance because of steep premium increases expected next year.

Need for rural physio

■ The Australian Physiotherapy Association has released its recent submission to the Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee, calling for reforms to Medicare which it says remedy the Scheme’s failure to provide equitable access to physiotherapy in rural, regional and remote communities.

The APA’s submission, which comes as part of the Committee’s examination into Rural, Regional and Remote Medicare Access and Funding , provides a suite of recommendations which, among other things, seek to prevent avoidable hospitalisation, unnecessary imaging and medication use and avoidable strain on the Australian health system.

Senior Service

Extra aged fees axed

■ Indi MHR Dr Helen Haines has welcomed the Government’s decision to scrap aged care co-payments for essential daily care, following persistent advocacy from the crossbench and community.

“This is a win for older people across Indi , and the nation, and for the families and carers who spoke up about what these changes mean for their daily lives,” Dr Haines said.

Under changes to home support that commenced last year, older Australians are required to pay out-of-pocket costs by classifying services like showering as ‘non-clinical’ care.

“When the government introduced its aged care reforms in 2024, I raised serious concerns about the co-payment.

“I continued to voice those concerns with the new aged care minister in 2025 until now.

“Basic care - like help with showering, eating and getting dressed - is not a luxury. It is clinical care that is fundamental to dignity, health and quality of life."

Dr Haines said many constituents had contacted her office, sharing their fears that the changes would make essential care unaffordable. She said the crossbench had led the charge on taking this issue to the government.

“I heard directly from older people and their families who were worried they would have to go without care or be pushed into hardship.”

Dr Haines said the Government’s decision to reverse course was the right one.

“This is the right outcome, and it shows that when communities speak up and with their voices being championed from the crossbench, governments must act.”

She noted that while the co-payment proposal was flawed, there remains a need for integrity and sustainability in the aged care system.

“I support strong safeguards to ensure public funding is used properly and to prevent fraud.

“But those safeguards must never come at the expense of access to essential care.”

Dr Haines said she would continue to advocate for a fair, accessible and highquality aged care system.

“Our older Australians deserve a system that puts their dignity first - and I will keep working to make sure that’s exactly what they get.”

A reversal of the co-payments will commence in October.

Price benchmarks

■ The Australian Independent Retirees submissions to the Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority seek clear and enforceable pricing benchmarks for aged care services.

“Without clear and enforceable pricing benchmarks, retirees are vulnerable to excessive or opaque charges for aged care services,” said AIR Chief Advocate Wayne Strandquist

“Older Australians, particularly fully and partly self-funded retirees, face escalating costs for in-home care, with many reporting higher hourly rates, reduced service hours and administrative charges that are difficult to understand or justify.”

Flaws noted

■ The Inspector-General of Aged Care’s final report of its Review of My Aged Care has exposed significant flaws and inadequacies with the platform designed to be the single-entry point to the aged care system.

KEYTON WELCOMES VERSO PLACE APPROVAL

■ Keyton has welcomed Whitehorse City Council’s unanimous decision to approve its VerSo Place development in Vermont South.

It marks a major milestone for one of Melbourne’s most significant new retirement living communities.

“This unanimous decision is a strong vote of confidence in our vision for VerSo Place and in the way we’ve approached this project from day one,” said Keyton Chief Executive Officer Nathan Cockerill

“We’re grateful to Council for its considered assessment and for recognising the quality, care and long-term value this development will bring to the local community.”

VerSo Place will be delivered as a staged development, with a strong emphasis on design quality, sustainability and connection to place.

The project has been shaped through extensive consultation and planning, including refinements to address community feedback raised during the planning process.

“We received some objections to our proposal from our neighbours during the DA process and worked proactively with them to address the concerns raised,” said Mr Cockerill.

“We listened and responded constructively and made changes around access, landscaping and the integration of the village with its surrounds.

“This approval reflects that process. It shows what’s possible when developers, councils and communities engage respectfully and with a shared focus on good outcomes,” he said.

Mr Cockerill said VerSo Place represents a new benchmark for how Keyton approaches retirement living, not as a standalone project, but as part of the fabric of an established neighbourhood.

“From the adaptive reuse of the heritage building to the way homes and shared spaces are oriented to the landscape, this is about creating a community that feels authentic and enduring.”

With planning approval secured, Keyton will continue early works and progress the next phases of the project in line with its staged delivery program.

“Reaching this point is a significant moment, but it’s also the start of the next chapter.

“We’re looking forward to moving ahead, keeping our communication and community engagement open, and delivering a development at VerSo Place everyone can be proud of,” Mr Cockerill said.

Keyton is a leading owner and operator of independent retirement living communities in Australia

■ A major Australian trial published in The Lancet Public Health has found that a tailored online program can help older adults aged 60-75 years significantly reduce risky alcohol use, by cutting consumption by an average of five standard drinks per month.

High-risk alcohol use among older Australians is an emerging issue. While overall drinking rates have declined in recent decades, risky drinking has remained steady or increased in later life.

National data show nearly one in five Australians in their 60s exceed recommended guidelines, placing them at greater risk of long-term harms. This is particularly important as alcohol is a key modifiable risk factor for dementia yet remains under-recognised in older adults.

Senior Moments

Healthy Ageing Day

■ Australia’s first National Healthy Ageing Day was held last week on Wednesday, May 6, highlighting how simple, practical healthy ageing approaches can help Australians stay strong, independent, and keep doing what matters as they age.

Healthy ageing is supported through evidence-based actions such as staying active, staying socially connected, and using the right tools to maintain independence.

The inaugural theme, Keep doing what matters, encouraged people to reflect on what they value most, whether that’s continuing a hobby or maintaining social ties, and how healthy ageing approaches can support those goals.

Andrea Morris , CEO of iLA , said: “Ageing well doesn’t require big changes. It starts with small, achievable actions that support strength, connection and independence. National Healthy Ageing Day is about encouraging people to take those steps."

Probe welcomed

■ The Human Rights and Age Discrimination Commissioners welcome the Commonwealth Ombudsman’s decision to investigate the use of the Integrated Assessment Tool in aged care.

The IAT is a national digital system designed to make decisions about an older person's needs and their eligibility for home-based governmentsubsidised aged care services, as part of the government’s Support at Home program.

In practice, the IAT can shape decisions about what services a person can access, and how costs are shared between them and the government.

“Independent scrutiny is critical where automated or algorithm-based systems are used in public administration in ways that shape access to services and have financial consequences,” said a representative of the Human Rights Commission,

“For older people, aged care assessments often determine both the level of support received and the costs they must meet, frequently at times of heightened vulnerability.

“Recent public reporting highlights concerns about how the Tool operates in practice.

“These include whether human reviewers are being prohibited from overriding automated decisions, and whether review pathways are accessible and effective when people’s circumstances change or errors detected.

“The Commission has consistently emphasised that AI-informed decisionmaking in government must operate within clear legal authority and be supported by effective human oversight, transparency and review.

“These principles are directly relevant to digital tools used in aged care, where decisions have enduring consequences for people’s dignity and wellbeing.

“The Ombudsman’s investigation provides an important opportunity to examine whether current practices reflect these standards and where safeguards need to be strengthened.”

Loneliness concern

■ As Australia’s population ages and loneliness becomes a growing public health concern, new research from Monash University has found that older Australians without close family ties face significantly higher rates of loneliness. Even with formal aged care support, the absence of partners or children significantly increase the likelihood of severe loneliness.

● ● ● ● An artist’s view of VerSo Place.

● ● ● ● Nathan Cockerill Seniors risky drinking

People

Home Sweet Home Home Affairs

Smoke alarms gap

■ Research suggests only 45 per cent of properties attended by fire services had smoke alarms and, of those, 31 per cent were not working2.

Fire safety experts at Brooks Australia are calling for residents in Victoria to make a habit of checking, cleaning, and replacing the batteries for, their fire and smoke alarms.

They follow the Rule of 10 when it comes to alarm maintenance:

■ Smoke alarms need to be less than 10 years old;

■ They take less than 10 seconds to clean;

■ They take less than 10 seconds to test.

Activity picks up

■ “Access to skilled labour deteriorated further, across almost all regions and all trades, as the number of homes under construction grew in the March quarter this year,” stated Housing Industry Australia Senior Economist Tom Devitt

“The HIA Trades Report provides a quarterly assessment of skilled labour availability in residential construction, as well as demand pressures identified through a survey of home builders.

“Despite rising interest rates and global turmoil, home building activity picked up in the March quarter of 2026, placing renewed pressure on an already constrained skilled workforce,” said Mr Devitt

7000 ‘social homes’

■ Council to Homeless Persons has warmly welcomed the Victorian Government’s commitment to build 7000 new social housing properties, describing the $860 million investment as an important first step in addressing the housing crisis.

“This is a significant and welcome investment, and we congratulate the Victorian Government for making it,” said Deborah Di Natale, CEO of Council to Homeless Persons

“Seven thousand new social housing properties will make a real difference to real people. That includes families on waiting lists, people sleeping rough, and the tens of thousands caught in the revolving door of the private rental market.

“But we have to be honest about the scale of the crisis we’re facing. 39,000 people in greatest need are languishing on Victoria’s priority housing waiting list right now. These seven thousand homes announced by the government are not nearly enough to offer hope to them.

“Modelling by SGS Economics tells us Victoria needs to construct 7990 new social homes every year for the next 10 years - around 80,000 in total - just to lift Victoria up to the national average of social housing.

“This announcement represents barely 10 per cent of what Infrastructure Victoria has recommended the Victorian Government build over the decade.

“The waiting list is longer than it has ever been. People are waiting years for a home they should be able to access now. This investment needs to be the foundation of something bigger, a longterm, sustained commitment to social CHP is calling for a mix of public and community housing in the new build, as the Productivity Commission found that only 36 new public housing dwellings were built over the last 9 years.

“We look forward to working with the government to build on this welcome first step and make sure no Victorian is left without a safe place to call home.”

$3 BILLION SAVED ON ENERGY BILLS

■ Climate-smart home upgrades such as solar panels, batteries, insulation, heat pumps and passive design are already saving Australian households an estimated $3 billion a year, with average savings of around $1500 per year, per home.

Adding EVs to a home’s energy ecosystem can further cut fuel costs, with households potentially saving up to $1000-$1500 per year on petrol depending on driving patterns.

These climate-smart and practical solutions will be on show across the country next month as hundreds of homes prepare to open their doors, showcase clever upgrades, and inspire their neighbours and local community as part of this year’s Sustainable House Day (May 17).

Beyond cost savings, upgrades can make homes more climate-ready to better cope with extreme heat, storms, and blackouts.

The majority of Australia’s housing was built before energy standards were introduced, making retrofits a vital way to cut energy bills, increase comfort, and strengthen homes against future climate risks.

Hosted by not-for-profit organisation Renew, Sustainable House Day has grown to become Australia’s largest national, community-driven celebration of climatesmart living.

Showcase

This year will showcase Australians who have retrofitted, renovated, rebuilt or electrified their homes, perhaps even switching to an EV, to share, inspire and showcase practical solutions for effective climate living.

Tickets are now available for an all-day flat $15 ticket fee, giving visitors access to see as many homes as they like and learn practical ways to cut energy bills and strengthen climate resilience.

Helen Oakey , CEO of Renew , said: "Australian households are leading one of the fastest clean energy transformations in the world.

“Families are installing rooftop solar, embracing home batteries, retrofitting insulation, and adopting passive design to save on bills and improve the safety of their homes in the face of extreme weather events.

“Seeing solutions in action inspires neighbours to act too. Small changes add up, and people leave feeling empowered rather than overwhelmed.

Sustainable

“Sustainable House Day is where it all comes to life. It’s the neighbour-toneighbour learning that drives real change."

Research shows Australians spend almost 90 per cent of their time indoors, most of it at home. Residential buildings account for around 24 per cent of national electricity use and more than 10 per cent of Australia’s total carbon emissions.

Oakey said: “People are feeling the impacts of extreme heat, rising energy costs, and unreliable power, and they’re looking for practical ways to respond.

“Climate action doesn’t just start in Parliament, it starts in our living rooms, kitchens and on our rooftops.

“Sustainable House Day gives people the chance to see those solutions up close, to walk through a home, ask honest questions, and understand what’s actually achievable for them.

“That’s when it shifts from a concept to something real. It becomes a powerful way to drive change and build understanding of what's possible.”

Feeling safe at home

■ One in five Victorians say they don’t feel safe in their own home, while onethird feel less safe than they did 12 months ago, according to new research from RACV’s Home Safety Pulse.

The findings highlight a growing sense of unease among households across Victoria , driven largely by concerns about crime and what people are seeing and hearing in their local communities.

While most Victorians still report feeling safe at home, the research shows a material shift in perceptions, with a significant minority feeling increasingly unsettled.

RACV General Manager Corporate Affairs Liz Carey said feeling safe at home is fundamental to wellbeing and quality of life.

“Home should be a place where people feel secure and at ease, but this research shows that for many Victorians , that sense of safety is being eroded,” Ms Carey said.

“This isn’t just about personal experience. Perceptions of safety are shaped by what people see happening around them, what they hear from neighbours, and the broader public conversation about crime.”

Among Victorians who said they feel less safe at home compared to 12 months ago, the research found:

■ 94 per cent attributed this to crime increasing

■ 32 per cent said it was linked to a neighbour experiencing a crime

■ 14 per cent said it was due to their own personal experience of crime

“These findings show that even when people haven’t been directly affected, concerns about crime in their community can still have a powerful impact on how safe they feel at home,” Ms Carey said.

“Home burglary offences were down by 7 per cent in the latest crime rates from Victoria’s Crime Statistic Agency. However, it’s important to view the trend over a longer period. Home burglary rates are still higher than they were two years ago”.

The Home Safety Pulse also found that perceptions of safety vary across different household types and locations, reinforcing that safety is deeply personal and influenced by context.

“People’s sense of safety goes beyond crime statistics. It’s about confidence in your home, trust in your community, and feeling supported by practical measures that help reduce risk.”

Outdated lot sizes

■ New Housing Industry Association analysis shows state and local governments are actively blocking housing supply while publicly committing to fix affordability.

HIA’s analysis finds that outdated minimum lot size rules embedded in planning schemes across Australia are preventing new homes from being delivered in established suburbs, making it near impossible to meet the National Housing Accord target of 1.2 million new homes.

“Governments are setting housing targets with one hand and shutting down supply with the other,” said HIA Executive Director Planning and Development Sam Heckel.

“You cannot meet housing targets while leaving 1950s planning rules untouched,” said Mr Heckel . HIA data shows housing construction remains well below the 240,000 homes a year required to meet national targets, while land prices have surged to record highs.

Despite this, up to 80 per cent of residential land in many cities remains locked into low-density zoning or similar with minimum lot sizes that effectively prohibit subdivision.

“These rules are a political choice, not a technical necessity,” he said.

“They were designed for a completely different time, yet governments continue to protect them even as affordability collapses.

“Minimum lot sizes are one of the easiest supply constraints for governments to remove yet remain largely untouched because of political reluctance to reform suburban planning controls.

“Governments keep talking about affordability, but this is where it is being lost. Smaller, sensible lot sizes in well-located suburbs would deliver more homes quickly, without high-rise development and without major infrastructure spending.

“Concerns about overdevelopment are being used as an excuse for inaction, despite the fact subdivision is already limited by stormwater rules, flooding, demolition costs, heritage protections and market demand.

“The market already decides where subdivision works and where it doesn’t. What governments are doing is stopping it everywhere, regardless of context,” said Mr Heckel

“HIA modelling shows reducing minimum lot sizes from 500sqm to 300sqm would cut the land cost of a new home by more than $200,000 providing immediate relief for first home buyers and downsizers.

“This is a fast, low-cost reform that governments could implement tomorrow. If governments are genuinely serious about housing supply and affordability, minimum lot sizes must go. Continuing to defend them means accepting higher prices, lower supply and ongoing failure to meet housing targets,” Mr Heckel said.

Housing stress

■ Amplify is releasing new national research showing Victoria is leading the country in housing stress.

■ Nearly three in four Victorians report that more than 30 per cent of their income goes towards housing

■ 62 per cent of Victorians report they don’t trust the State Government to improve housing

■ 74 per cent of Victorians believe little or no progress is being made on housing supply

■ 64 per cent of Australians support changes to Capital Gains Tax discounts and negative gearing.

● ● Helen Oakey

Royal Historical Society of Vic.

Sir,

Somewhere in our collection, there is a photograph of your suburb before it was your suburb.

A diary written by someone who walked your street a century ago. Evidence that the place you know has always been changing, and that someone thought it worth recording.

The Royal Historical Society of Victoria has been doing this work for 117 years.

We preserve Victoria's history. We support more than 350 local historical societies across the state. We make these stories available to anyone who wants them.

And we do all of this without ongoing government funding.

The defining issues of our time, the climate emergency, the rise of AI, Truth-Telling and Treaty with First Peoples are inseparable from how we understand the past. Each of these issues has a history.

Victoria is also changing quickly. Urban development is reshaping communities faster than the heritage system can protect them. Historical scholarship in our universities is under serious pressure. This makes organisations like ours, and the more than 350 local historical societies we work with across Victoria , more vital than ever.

Help us reach $100,000 before June 30.

A gift to the RHSV goes directly to:

■ Preserving our collection — manuscripts, photographs, maps and objects that tell Victoria's story

■ Supporting local historical societies in every town and suburb across the state

■ Running programs, exhibitions and publications that make history accessible to everyone

■ Keeping scholarship and research alive for future generations

If you have ever wondered what your place looked like a hundred years ago — who lived there, what they cared about, what they built or lost or chose to save — we exist because those questions matter. Help us keep answering them.

Donate before June 30

Dr Steven Cooke

Executive Director Royal Historical Society of Victoria

Heidelberg

Magistrates’ Court Criminal Court Listings

Wednesday, May 20

Abbott, Simon Anthony Abdol, Abdi Al-Kazona, Saif Amad, Joseph George Andy, Leone Arachchige, Chinthaka Asanoksi, Emrah Austin, Dakota Barrese, Joseph Batuwattegama Adikar, Yevin Inod Bedson, Brendon Bennett, Mali Cicada Blunden, Daniel Bolton, Andrew Bradley, Morgan Brownrigg, Rikki Bo Cassidy, Emily Chang, Chia-Wei Constantinou, Peter Dafalias, John Datta, Sumit Daw, Justin Deng, Kek Emmerson, Matt Favory, Natalie Fretton, Dillon Galea, Matthew Ghassemi, Karen Gough, Elysa Hangar, Nansi Hart, Adam James Hicks, Noah David Hume, Cody Kargar, Iman Khozadi, Rahim Knight, Millie Valda Laurie, Robert Lin, Yanwen Linares, Marcel Eric Lindstrom, Jorden Linton, Brooke Marangos, Paris Mohammad, Younis Morley, Cameron Nikopoulos, Nicholas O'leary, Geri Ozdemir, Selim Parcalar, Mesut Phan, Andrew Phillips, Mark Podhajski, Luke Rebershak, Radivoj Rose, Tamara Sfakanakis, Michael Sipiki, Barry Terei, Haley Thomas, Adam Vivian Tuncer, Feride Winch, Taylor Ann Wood, Frank Yingjun, Jiang Zafiri, Mohammad Zahran, Ahmed

Aquarena works

■ Construction is underway on a major upgrade to Aquarena , one of Manningham’s most popular leisure facilities.

Manningham Council marked the important milestone with a sod-turning event, officially kicking off the outdoor redevelopment.

The project will deliver an upgraded outdoor pool, new amenities, and improved landscaping designed to better meet current and future demand from schools, clubs and families.

Manningham Mayor, Cr Jim Grivas, said the start of construction signalled the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Manningham’s history.

At Springfield Rd

■ Whitehorse Council is this week resurfacing Springfield Rd between Southey St and Surrey Rd, as part of is annual road maintenance program.

The works will be delivered in stages with patching works scheduled to start, taking up to 3 days. Working hours will generally be 9.30am to 3pm, Monday to Friday.

Electronic signs will be on display to notify road users. The works involve:

■ Removing sections of the existing road surface where needed

■ Repairing damaged areas of the road

■ Laying a new asphalt surface Parking will not be permitted on the section of Springfield Rd being resurfaced between 7.30am and 5pm.

Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court Criminal Court Listings Wednesday, May 20 Aceski, Daniel Acikoglu, Yasin Adam, Ali Alberts, Dylan Ali, Adnan Ali, Heba Allouche, Ahmed Allouche, Mustufa Brown, Lenard Calleja, Robert Clark, John Coffey, Sam Cole, Daniel Cowley, Samuel D'cruz, Izaya Dick, Shandice Edelbi, Amron El Baba, Juhayan El Omari, Azelarab Ghoson, Elias Abi Gill, Jasvir Hameed, Sajjad Hano, Yousif Zeyad Hayek, Bassam Herath, Jude Herrera, Matthew Heyfron, Rycky Hijazi, Mohammad Hoblos, Jalal Horton, Mathew Hothlyn Homes Pty Ltd James, Adam Jeboo, Nadia Kelly, Damien Kennedy, Veisinia Khaldie, Aman Kheir, Linda Kirk, Katie Laguerre, Hayzel Lahoud, Joe Mayberry, Andrew Mcadam, Jason Mcgahy, John Joseph Mckenzie, Jessica Montera Homes Pty Ltd Morris, Lachlan Stuart Mostafa, Mostafa Naaman, Ida Najib, Lina Palazzolo, Francesca Peskett, Jodi Polus, Zied Randall, Luke Scavo, Luke Shah, Mohammad Singh, Sonia Stiles, Jack Stratton, Luke Tarczon, Dylan Peter Vanderpol, Clinton Watson, Kylie Wilson, Anthony Kaz

Springfield Rd will be closed to through traffic during the hours of 9.30am to 3 pm, between Southey St and Surrey Rd

Access to North Blackburn Shopping Centre will be via Willams Rd.

The bus service along Springfield Rd will continue to operate normally. There may be bus stops temporarily unavailable during the works.

Bin collection will take place on the usual day, although collection times may vary.

At Coleman Pde

■ As part of Monash Council’s road reconstruction works in Glen Waverley’s Coleman Parade , it will be conducting night works, between Blackburn Rd and Fiander Avenue, today (Wed., May 20).

“It is essential that these asphalting works are completed at night to minimise traffic disruption,” said a City of Monash representative.

Road pavement profiling and asphalting works will take place from 7pm Wednesday, May 20 until 6am Thursday, May 21.

Film screening

■ Knox Council is organising a free screening of Luku Ngarra: The Law of the Land on Thursday June 25 at Knox Community Arts Centre.

The film shares the extraordinary story of Rev Dr Gondarra , an initiated clan leader within the Yonu Nation who has spent the most part of his life as a civil rights activist, spiritual leader, cross cultural mediator and educator and an elder who has dedicated his life to upholding the traditional law of his people.

Afterwards there will be light refreshments a panel discussion and Q&A exploring the themes of the film and how they relate to truth telling, Treaty Victoria, and reconciliation today.

Content warning: This film contains footage of deceased Aboriginal Elders

Date: Thursday, June 25. 10.30am12.30pm.

Location: Knox Community Arts Centre, Cnr Mountain Hwy and Scoresby Rd, Bayswater

Cost: Free, registration required

Contact: email arts@knox.vic.gov.au or call the Knox Community Arts Centre team on 9729 7287.

Healesville is tops

■ Healesville has been recognised as one of the 100 Best Towns to Visit in Australia by a panel of judges for Australian Traveller magazine. The charming Yarra Ranges township placed fifth in the ‘Emerging’ category and came in 57th overall.

Chess, Normie

■ Here For The Beer is the new single release for Aussie music icons Johnny ‘Chess’ Chester and Normie Rowe . Written by Chess , it’s a fun feel good country tune about life, mates and a cold beer. Interestingly his first single was released 65 years ago on May 11, 1961. A host of renowned musicians including Mick Hamilton, Adam Peterkin, Graham Bloomfield, Noel Tresider, David Mackay and others, with production by Geoff Peterkin, contributed to the very catchy tune that’s available on all streaming platforms.

Crooners Dream

■ A new show by Wade Morgan, The Crooners Dream, celebrates the music and legacy of Bing Crosby, Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra . The stories, facts and their connections with each other will all come to life alongside a live jazz band to help create that jazz club atmosphere, Wade says. Paris Cat Jazz Club , Sat. June 20, commencing 6.30pm.

Together Alone

■ Country music and rock come together with Ian Moss and Troy Cassar–Daley bringing their Together Alone tour back to Victoria in December. On paper, a rock musician and a country singer might not seem like a natural fit, but their chemistry makes it work effortlessly. Their styles blend seamlessly, creating spontaneous moments that are one-of-a-kind and never repeated, the press release declares. Dates and venue information available online.

DEGAS TO PICASSO AT SHEPPARTON

■ A special early preview of Shepparton Art Museum's Australian -exclusive winter blockbuster exhibition Facing Modernity: Degas to Picasso from Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki was held yesterday (Tues.) ahead of its public opening on Saturday (May 23).

Young artists encouraged

■ Hobsons Bay City Council is calling on young artists to take part in the Woods Street Youth Art Prize.

Entries are open for the popular biennial event until 3pm on Friday, June 12.

The competition is an opportunity for young people aged 14 to 25 years living, working, studying or with a connection to the western suburbs of Melbourne to submit various forms of art for both display and to go in the mix for a range of awards.

A range of artistic mediums are welcome, from 2D works such as painting, drawing or photography, 3D works like sculptures or installations, as well as film and performance art.

Six prize categories are up for grabs in 2026 with various amounts of prize money, including:

■ Open category - $1000

■ Runner-up open 500 - $500

■ Hobsons Bay artist - $400

■ Artist encouragement award (under 20) - $200

■ Artist encouragement award (over 20) - $200

■ People’s choice award - $400 Works will be displayed at Laverton’s Woods Street Arts Space from September 4-19, with winners announced at the exhibition’s opening night on September 4.

Mayor of Hobsons Bay, Cr Diana Grima, said: “The Woods Street Youth Art Prize is a fantastic opportunity for young creatives to share their voice, showcase their talent and be recognised for their work.

“I encourage all eligible young artists to get involved and take this chance to be part of a vibrant and supportive creative community.”

Smart Fone Flick Fest

■ The 12th annual Smart Fone Flick Fest is open for entries.

The Sydney -founded - now international - hit film fest that puts movie-making in the hands of everyone and every age, will again take place at the Sydney Opera House on November 1.

Last year over 450 entries came from every corner of the globe, with the best of them facing off in front of a full house of industry A-listers, festival ambassadors and celebrity and industry judges for a share of more than $50,000 in prizes.

South African filmmaker SJ van Breda scooped five major prizes for her documentary

Squashbox . Three more went to French film Umami by Aida Bahrami.

However, Australian films from Braybrook and South Yarra won awards in the Gala Finals . And Best SF3 Kids awards went to Dylan Quick of Caulfield in the High School section.

This year’s November 1 live screenings at the Opera House will feature SF3 Kids Finals and 12th Annual Gala Finals as well as the announcement of the Feature Film winner. That film together with the ‘Mini’ finalists will have a separate screening.

Riding for Disabled

■ More than 1000 Victorians living with disability are currently waiting for the chance to participate in Riding for the Disabled Association of Victoria programs — prompting a statewide appeal for donations and corporate support before June 30.

Following a recent Channel 9 News feature highlighting the impact of its work, RDAV has renewed its “Waiting to Belong” campaign.

The organisation is aiming to raise $300,000 before June 30 to help more than 1000 Victorians currently waiting for access to its programs.

RDAV has already raised more than $120,000 toward its end-of-financial-year target, but says strong community and

corporate support is still needed to help clear growing waiting lists across Victoria

For more than 50 years, RDAV has supported children and adults living with physical, intellectual,sensory and psychosocial disabilities through a network of 33 volunteer-run centres across Victoria

Across the state, more than 600 participants aged from three to 65 currently take part in RDAV programs, supported by more than 1200 volunteers and over 200 horses.

But growing demand means more than 1000 people are now waiting for a place.

MAPh

■ The Museum of Australian Photography is thrilled to present a major exhibition by one of Australia’s most influential artists: Brook Andrew, with Rollercoaster: winhangadurinya in motion

Over recent years, the museum has steadily built a significant collection of A ndrew’s work, now brought into focus in this exhibition. Drawing on these holdings, MAPh brings this collection into dialogue with a new commission.

Working across visual art, performance, research and long-term community and museum collaborations, Andrew’s practice reveals and reimagines the legacies of power and representation that continue to shape how histories are produced.

EVEN PROGRAM OF EIGHT EVENTS

■ Maryborough commenced the week on Monday May 11 with an even program of eight races and Tasmanian reinsman Liam Older has made a great return to Victoria driving in brilliant fashion for both Bec Bartley and Craig Turnbull and added another winner to the list when successful aboard ex-Kiwi 7Y0 Kadabra-October Rain gelding Antonov in the 2690 metres Worlds Best Hoof Oil Trotters Handicap.

Trained at Kialla by Bec, Anonov heavily supported from double figures in the morning line into a $3.90 favourite settled four back along the markers from 10 metres as both Distant Sun (barrier three) and Im Above The Law (20m) engaged in head and head battle ruining their chances a long way from home.

Driving with extreme patience after allowing both Johns Boy (five pegs from 30 metres) and A True Story (20m which trailed three wide last lap from the rear) to pour the pressure on, Antonov commenced a three wide move prior to the home turn and steamed home to record an easy 5.1 metre margin in 2-01.1 over Johns Boy which had taken over on the final bend and battled on well. Polemarker Watch And Act (three pegs) was third 10.9 metres away.

■ Pastor Stephen-Hush Your Majesty gelding Regal Gala was most impressive in taking the Aldebaran Park Kindergarten 2Y0 Trotters Mobile (1st Heat) over 1690 metres for Muckleford trainer Chris Angove.

Driven by James Herbertson, Regal Gala ($1-65) began fast from gate four to lead with Orlando Veyron (gate five $2.15) going with him full bore into the first turn but couldn’t cross as Chris Alford eased to trail the favourite).

Trotting boldly, Regal Gala bred and raced by Michael Taylor coasted to the wire to score by a metre only with plenty in hand returning a mile rate of 2-01.8. Peter Manning’s Callinan starting solo on the second line looked a coming winner after facing the breeze from the bell to be third 7.6 metres back. It was Regal Gala’s third victory in six outings.

In form 6Y0 Fear The Dragon-Macy Lila mare Outback Queenie bred by local Peter Fitzpatrick and raced by him in partnership with Tim and Helen Mortlock chalked up her tenth victory in 78 outings (eleven placings) when victorious in the Redpath Tyre and Battery Service Concession Drivers Pace over 2190 metres.

Driven by 35 year old Trent Fiscalini who only started driving last year, Outback Queenie after starting inside the second line and settling five back in the moving line made a fast move prior to the bell to park outside the pacemaker Jindalea Jack before surging clear shortly after with a circuit to travel. in advance of Precious Belle (Louis Emerson – three pegs from the pole) flashing late, with Jindalea Jack third a nose away. The mile rate 2-02.6. ■ Honest 8Y0 Courage Under Fire-As Above gelding Zwick raced by Navarre trainer Toby Ainsworth and partner Ada Massa snared the 1690 metre Peter Egan Bi-Rite Electrical Concession Drivers Pace, chalking up his first victory since November last year and six in total.

Given a sweet trip from gate two following the pacemaker Iamawingate which had crossed from outside the front line, Zwick received a surprise inside passage approaching the home turn to lead on straightening and held on by a neck from Wow You Can Dance (gate four – one/one) and a death-seating Quick Decision 6.9 metres back after racing exposed. The mile rate 1-57.2.

Shepparton

■ Shepparton held a mammoth ten event card in their regular Tuesday timeslot and being up close was the place to be in the majority of races.

Four year old Always B Miki-Bonnie Mahoney gelding Random Mahoney trained at Strathfieldsaye by Julie Douglas was successful in the 1690 metre Abbey and Abby SHRC Facebook Pace.

Bred and raced by Mahoney Standardbreds, Random Mahoney driven by Tasmyn Potter was given the run of the race from the pole trailing the pacemaker Line Dance (gate six) before using the sprint lane on turning to gain the day by a half neck from Ginger Ella (three pegs from

inside the second line) which also made use of the sprint lane. Our Cheeky Devil (gate two – one/two) was third 1.3 metres away. The mile rate 1-56.2.

■ Lancefield’s “Rocket” Rod Petroff trained and reined 7Y0 Betting Line-Arivee gelding Ya Bottom Dollar to land the SHRC Wager Wednesday Pace over 1690 metres in similar fashion.

Trailing the leader King Saint (gate three) after starting from gate two which had crossed polemarker Aliza Hill and enjoying a cosy trip, Ya Bottom Dollar used the sprint lane to prevail by a neck over King Saint which wouldn’t lay down, with Little Wonder (one/one from gate four –outside King Saint home turn) third 2.7 metres away. The mile rate 1-55.3.

■ Avenel’s Juanita Breen was another to train and drive a winner when 7Y0 Betting Line-Stylish Boulevard gelding Our Mystery Bet outstayed his rivals in the 2190 metre Hygain Pace.

Going forward from gate four to park outside the leader Krakey (outside front line) which had cleared polemarker Olly Odd Potts when pressured, Our Mystery Bet scored by 1.6 metres from Gary Pekin’s Cresco Threepeat (one/two from gate six) returning a 1-59.8 mile rate. Krakey held third 4.5 metres back.

■ Local trainer Bec Bartley provided her second winner in two days when 4Y0 Volstead-Cashel Dagha gelding Voldagha accounted for his rivals in the Neatline Trotters Mobile over 1690 metres.

Given every opportunity by Mark Pitt after avoiding several gallopers at the start, Voldaga (gate three) settled one/one with Jetaway Saint flying out from outside the front line to cross Taken By Wine (gate six) and dictate.

Easing three wide running into the final bend, Voldagha ran on best to just last from a flying Sammy Holler (one/two from the extreme draw) which sprouted wings to go down by a head. Aldebaranharlequin (gate four) after racing exposed was third 3 metres away. The mile rate 2-02.2.

■ Wahring trainer Rosie Weidenbach combined with Bendigo based Neil McCallum to snare the Shepparton Showcase Podcast Preview Pace over 1690 metres with Im Big Business, a three year old gelded son of Art Major and War Dan Bad Girl.

Settling four back in the moving line from gate two on the second line, Im Big Business went forward three wide in the last lap sustaining a long run to gain the day by a half neck from Owen The Saints (gate three second line) which followed him home. Follow The Money (gate three second line) was third 1.3 metres back after trailing the pair. The mile rate 1-56.2.

Bendigo

■ Bendigo raced on Wednesday and it was the trotters who stole the show winning five of the eight races on the program.

Six year old Majestic Son-Catchya Maya mare Paris Jamilla started the ball rolling when victorious in the 1650 metre Northern Rivers Equine Vet Clinic and Lowalong Farms Mobile. Trained at Arcadia South by Jaimie Egan for himself and partner Bek Dudley, Paris Jamilla driven by Nathan Jack was sent forward from gate four to lead throughout, accounting for Artigas (gate four second line – one/three) and Deejay Dex (gate five second line – one/ four) which followed the runner up home.

The margins 2.2 by 2.5 metres in a 1-57.1 mile rate.

■ Balliang trotting specialist Tyrone Abela landed the Aldebaran Park Mobile over 1650 metres with Jays All That, a three year old gelded son of Elite Stride and Peggyhall raced by the family’s Evolution Lodge Pty. Ltd. With Jodi Quinlan in the sulky, Jays All That (gate four) settled one/one enjoying a cosy trip as Watch And Act led from gate two.

Joining the leader on the home turn, Jays All That after a head and head battle with the leader all the way up the running, prevailed by a head in a thrilling finale. Bullapark Beno (three pegs from inside the second line) after angling three wide on the final bend was third 2.1 metres back. The mile rate 1-58.3.

■ The Haras Des Trotteurs Mobile saw Rushworth trainer Don Cross successful with the Cross family bred 8Y0 Imperial Count-Im Rite Or Wrong mare Jessicas Story.

Driven by Abby Sanderson, Jessicas Story a winner of 14 with 46 placings going into the race enjoyed the run of the race from the pole as Robert John flew away to lead from gate five. Making full use of the sprint lane, Jessicas Story scored by 2.4 metres in a rate of 2-02.4 from Little Tedey (three pegs from inside the second line) which also used the sprint lane, with Robert John holding down third 5.1 metres back.

■ Torrumbarry trainer Faye McEwan who loves the trotters was successful with What The Hill-Always Treasure filly Morning Dove in the Stonemans Village IGA & Liquor Strathdale Maiden over 2150 metres.

With Michael Bellman holding the reins, Morning Dove starting from the extreme draw avoided several breakers in the early stages to settle one/one momentarily as Great Horizon led from gate three before being crossed by Dalahasten (gate six) leaving Morning Dove exposed.

Despite the tough passage, Morning Dove careered away on turning to greet the judge by 18.4 metres from polemarker Arivaderchi (one/two), with Dalkahasten third a metre back. The mile rate 2-03.4.

■ Wedderburn part-owner/trainer Tarah McNamara’s most consistent 7Y0 Danny Bouchea-Windsor Black mare Poppy Popstar bred by veteran ‘Doc’ Hargreaves was a raging hot $1.25 favourite in the Worlds Best Hoof Oil Trot over 1650 metres and didn’t let her supporters down.

Driven by the ‘best in the business’ James Herbertson, Poppy Popstar (three wide from gate four) wasn’t pushed out before going forward to stroll past the polemark leader Giggle Water racing for the bell, toying with her rivals to register a 14 metre victory from the ever reliable Allwatfunjingles (three pegs from inside the second line) along the sprint lane, with Giggle Water 3.2 metres back third. The mile rate 1-58.4.

Ballarat

■ Ballarat raced on Thursday with an even nine race card and veteran Balliang horseman ‘Ginger Gleeson’, a former Gordon Rothacker Medallist and one of the sports really ‘good guys’ was victorious with 6Y0 Kvintet Avenger-Sheza Spur gelding Nuclear Attitude in the Book Now Girls Night Out 25/6 Trotters Mobile over 1710 metres.

Settling one/one from gate six after Aldebaran Maverick led from gate five, Nuclear Attutude was left exposed prior to the bell when Touchango (gate four) ahead of him dropped to the markers three back.

Surging to the front on turning, Nuclear Attitude defied all challengers to gain the day by 7.9 metres from Jungle Spider which trailed the leader from gate three getting clear in plenty of time giving the Bacchus Marsh area the quinella. Charlie Walker (gate two second line) was third 4.1 metres back after following the winner most of the way. Raced by the Gleeson family, it was Nuclear Attitude’s third success in 74 outings returning a 2-00.3 mile rate.

■ Trotters were once again prominent during the night and it was great to see Dunnstown trainer David Murphy who has been doing it tough in recent times listed as the trainer of 4Y0 Majestic SonLindarella mare Buckles For Berry who snared the Alfredton Laundry Trotters Mobile over 2200 metres.

This Week

■ Wednesday – Bendigo, Thursday –Kilmore, Friday – Mildura/Geelong, Saturday – Melton, Sunday – Cranbourne, Monday – Horsham, Tuesday –Shepparton.

Driven by son Brent who has been doing a sterling job with the team during David’s illness, Buckles For Berry (inside second line) after being extricated away from four pegs in the last lap and wide on the final bend, ran home strongly tp prevail by 4.3 metres from No Telling Heather (one/three from outside the front line), with Snickers Express (gate three second line – one/one at bell – outside leader Champagnes (gate three) home turn third 2.4 metres away third. The mile rate 2-00.9. ■ Horsham owner-part/breeder and trainer Rod Carberry combined with Michael Bellman to land the 2200 metre Natures Cargo Pace with Sportswriter-Bou Chard mare Sportsbou returning a 1-57.3 mile rate.

Given an easy time one/one from gate two as Caledonian Ranger (gate four) led before electing to take a trail on Just Incredible (gate six), Sportsbou easing three wide on the final bend as Affamato (one/ three) from inside the second line had gone forward to join the pacemaker prior to the home turn, Sportsbou ran home best to blouse Affimato by a neck, with Caledonian Ranger using an inside passage for third four metres back.

■ Kurunjang duo Maree and John Caldow were winners when 6Y0 What The HillCloud Chaser mare The Sky Is The Limit with John driving led throughout from gate two in the Radio Ballarat Trotters Mobile over 2200 metres.

A master when leading, John rated The Sky Is The Limit to perfection never panicking at any stage before running out a 2.1 metre victor in advance of Amour Maternal (three pegs from gate three) which ran home swiftly. Polemarker Night Flight after trailing the winner and easing off the inside on turning was third 1.3 metres back. The mile rate 2-01.1.

■ Harkness trainer Joe Pace was successful with raging hot favourite Sweet Irish Loch, a 3Y0 daughter of Sweet Lou and Just Irish Loch in the 1710 metre Ferndale Foods Pace.

Driven by son Adrian, Sweet Irish Luck wasn’t pushed out from gate four as the start was effected as Colorado Girl led easily from gate two.

Gradually going forward to race without cover, Sweet Irish Loch first up since December travelled sweetly taking over on the final bend to score by 4.3 metres from American Guy which trailed the pacemaker who held down third 3.4 metres back. The mile rate 1-56.9.

Please standby

■ Stand by for a coming announcement that Sky Channel come September/October will be launching a new channel - Sky 3. Could it be that this channel will be dedicated exclusively to trots and dogs? More to come.

Len Baker

Latest News

■ North West Metro Regional Crime Squad detectives arrested five people after seizing an assortment of guns and drugs and disrupting a clandestine drug laboratory in Broadmeadows on Monday (May 18).

Detectives executed a search warrant at a home on Riggall St, Broadmeadows. Twelve firearms were located and seized, including handguns, a shotgun, and an air rifle. A clandestine laboratory was located inside the premises and was examined by chemists before being dismantled.

WINNER, WINNER, CHICKEN DINNER

■ I have been a racing participant for almost all of my life.

The irony in the headline is that I have also been a vegetarian for over 50 years.

First and foremost, it is the animals I love, but also the excitement and wagering aspect of the sport.

The theatre of a racetrack on race day can be something to behold.

Horses arriving on course and being stabled, saddled, led around the parade ring and into the mounting yard.

Bookmakers challenging punters with the odds they offer in a sometimes-bustling betting ring.

Trainers discussing tactics with jockeys who are given a leg up onto the back of their horse, enter the track and make their way towards the barriers.

Then there is the race itself.

Not only the colour and spectacle, but also the way in which each race unfolds as it reaches its conclusion.

The triumphant horse and rider returning after the event.

Sometimes to the plaudits of the crowd and on other occasions an almost deathly silence, when an unexpected outcome has eventuated.

In all this time, I have never owned a share in a racehorse.

That is, until now.

Feek Racing

■ Recently, a new advertiser appeared on the Observer Racing page in The Local Paper.

Welcome to Feek Racing , the husbandand-wife team of David and Coral Feek , who combine to provide a first-class racehorse training service.

If you are reading the digital edition, simply click on the web address (feekracing.com.au ) in the display ad to meet the team, check out their facilities and consider ownership opportunities.

As Feek Racing was going to appear on this page, I researched the stable and its horses, gaining a particular insight into those which were currently racing.

Then, out of the blue, I came across a small share for sale in one of those wellperformed horses and couldn’t resist.

That was in mid-April.

Straight away I received a phone call from Coral, congratulating me on my purchase and welcoming me to the ownership group.

I have since received regular communication about the horse from David and Coral

This has included audio and video messages, updates and reports, and also stable photos and videos.

As the horse I bought a share in was already racing, it was just a few weeks away from having its next start.

In the meantime, I was given added confidence from watching other Feek Racing trained runners compete.

It was clear that every horse in the stable was being given the utmost care and attention, and as a result racing well.

Their horses were consistently outperforming market expectations.

It also became obvious that a lot of thought went into placing the horses in

Rod Basto

suitable events. There is an old racing quote, “try to keep yourself in the best company and your horses in the worst.”

My first-time horse races under the name of Smarticon. He is a four-year-old gelding and bay in colour.

His father is the former talented juvenile Smart Missile and mother Think Icon, a daughter of the champion racehorse So You Think Generations of that dam line, as well as So You Think , were owned by the late Dato Tan Chin Nam and trained by the late and great Bart Cummings I included Smarticon in the profitable Observer Racing Horses To Follow section (April 29 edition), believing he was likely to be a winning chance at his next outing.

Word came through that he would attempt his third victory at just his 13th start at Echuca over 1000 metres, a distance he had not raced over previously. Both Smarticon’s wins to date had been just beyond 1100 metres and his racing pattern was well established, settling in the second half of the field and unleashing a strong finish. So having to start from the outside barrier, knowing he would be well back over the shorter trip and most likely wide in the run, added to the intrigue.

In Smarticon’s favour was having an experienced jockey in Patrick Moloney on board. After opening the second pick in early markets, Smarticon was backed into favouritism. He jumped well, but as expected, drifted back and raced wide. Then, after the field had travelled about 300 metres, Smarticon became unbalanced when bumped on the hindquarters. Fortunately, both horse and rider were able to gather themselves and continue unharmed. Reaching the turn into the home straight, Smarticon was the widest runner and moving into the race.

With 200 metres remaining, it appeared as though he was going to be in the finish. Then, in the final 50 metres, Smarticon hit the front and went on to win by three quarters of a length. What a thrill!

Thank you to David and Coral and the rest of the team behind the scenes, as well as Pat Moloney and of course, Smarticon himself for a day to remember. Let’s hope the stable can produce another winner in the coming weeks.

Horses To Follow

■ Powerful Torque, Smarticon, Every Little Thing, Colizzi

Racing Calendar

■ Wednesday, May 20: Caulfield Heath

■ Thursday, May 21: Seymour

■ Friday, May 22: Geelong, Pakenham

■ Saturday, May 23: Sandown Lakeside, Echuca

■ Sunday, May 24: Ballarat, Mildura

■ Monday, May 25: Mornington

■ Tuesday, May 26: Hamilton

● ● Smarticon. Racing Photos.

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BOOKS. 10. Peter Fitzsimons. Hard cover. All different titles. VGC. $100. Brookfield. 0415 562 593.Q-W

CARAVAN. Royal Flair Poptop. Double bed,c addon annexe, gas cooking grill. Three-way fridge. Micro TV video. Innerspring mattress. Handles well. Compact. New awning. Reg 2027: PO3930. 15 ft long. VGC. $9500. Euroa. 0455 267 422.Q-W

CHEVROLET. 1991. Camaro RS Coupe. White in colour. Auto. 5-litre V8. Low miles. Targo top. EC. Club rego: H6193. $32,000. Viewbank. 0407 403 507.Q-W

COAT. Women’s. Gold velour. Size 18. GC. $80. Greensborough. 0433 366 628. Q-W

COAT. Women’s. Navy blue, double breasted, wool blend. Size 16-18. FC. $70. Greensborough. 0433 366 628. Q-W

DINGHY. Walker Bay. Ideal for a tender from a larger boat. Can take a 3HP motor. FC. Comes without oars or row locks. $300 or best offer. Sorrento. 0418 311 195.

DINING CHAIRS. Parker. 6. Solid vintage frames, FC. Upholstery could use a clean or recover but structurally sound. Great project for restoration or retro dining setup. Selling as set of six. Pickup required. Message if interested. $1000. Greensborough. 0433 366 628.Q-W

DVDs. 350+. Some new. Hot Rod Street Classic, Motor Bike Shows. 1956 up to 2020 movies. Cars, war, romance, Aussie crime, Western, Nature. Box sets. VHS. Planet of the Apes. More. Also Cassettes, Music. VGC. $150 or best offer. Healesville. 5962 6219.Q-W

DOLL MAKING PARAPHERNALIA. Lots of wigs, shoes, hand made clothes. UFOs, etc. New cond. $250. Whittlesea. 716 1881.H-K

ELECTRIC MIXMASTER. Pasta making machine including big bowls for mixing flkour. $20. Electric fan for summer, portable, large, $20. Terra cotta cooking pot with lid. Ladies shoes, new, never been worn. Medium heels, size 38, In box. Black. $140. Exhaust fan. For ceiling mounting,c electric, Austral brand. $25. East Bentleigh. 9503 8686. Q-W

FIREPLACE GUARD. Black, metal. 800mm wide, with 2 folding side panels at 300mm. GC. $30. Greensborough. 0433 366 628.Q-W

LOUNGE SUITE. 3-piece top quality luxury leather. Light cream Moran pillow type. Unused Lounge. $1800. Armchairs, $990 each. 2 throws and 2 pillows included. Essendon area. 0419 384 496. Q-W

MOBILITY SCOOTER. Pathrider 140 XL. Has lights, rear vision mirror, shopping basket on the front, shopping bag on the back. Complete with charger, sturdy scooter. VGC. $2100. Tootgarook/ Rye. 0415 801 782 K-N

MOBILITY SCOOTER. Freedom Odyssey Plus, as new, 2 batteries, fully charged. Manual with instructions and invoice. Not needed anymore. Can inspect anytime. EC. $1800. Heidelberg. 0429 054 065.H-K

PLANTS. Indoor Outdoor Ground Covers. Stags, Bird of Paradise, Succulents, Ferns, Hydrangeas, more. Come and see. Very cheap. VGC. Noble Park. 0407 325 030.I-L

PLUMBING DOWNPIPE. Colourbond Steel. 100x50mm. Four lengths at 1.8 metres. Yea. 0418 109 887. O-S

REGISTRATION

PLATES. Personalised. ‘MISUBI’. Slimline. B&W. VGC. $550. Frankston. 9789 9634. O-S

ROOM HEATER. Dimplex. Electric Portable. 7 vane. VGC. $60. Frankston. 9789 9634 O-S

SALE

VARIOUS ITEMS. New shoes, size 38 women, colour: black. Swede top, medium size, heels. $200. Sunbeam Mixmaster, electric, pasta maker, including mixing bowls, large, $200. Fruit plate, new, in box, $10. 8-people rectangular table cover, $15. Superior elec. fan, portable, 3-speed, new cond., $15. East Bentleigh. 9503 8686. O-S

5 vintage saws for

FC. $12. Also frame for manual sharpening. GC. $8. Ashburton. 9885 2203.H-K

Electric Free Standing Stove with CookTop and Oven. Near new. Ideal for holiday

VINTAGE Mechanical Car and Trucks Jacks. 250 in total. Price negotiable. Williamstown. 0400 825 550.H-K

or

STUDY OFFICE CHAIR. Pink, white spots. Smallisdh. $12. Surrey Hills. 0410 626 110. O-S

TRAILER. 7x4 single axle trailer with removable 600mm cage. Tilt body with front and rear tailgates. Hot-dip galvanised and fully welded body. 2.5mm checker plate floor. LED lights. Spare wheel. 1200mm drawbar. 12 months rego, Z25487. GC. $950. Briar Hill. 0407 819 877.I-L

VICTORIAN rocking horse, carved from wood and original. GC. $2000. Broadmeadows, Dallas. 0480 273 335I-L

Olympic Games. Melbourne, 1956. Sydney, 2000. Manchester, opening and closing. GC. $10 each. Box Hill South. 9890 7904.F-I

Very clean. EC. $100. Marysville. 0417 337 424.F-I HORSE FLOAT. 2001 Kara Kar. Rego until may 28, 2026. Side window vent, day yard included. Reliablem roadworthy. Fantastic condition. $15,000. Richmond. 0434 974 072.F-I

RUG. Tartan.

used. GC. $30. Macleod. 9459 6714. O-S

KITCHEN CHAIRS. Nameo. 4. 1950s/60s. Chrome and mustard colour, vinyl. GC. $250. Glenroy. 9306 7628. I-L

2203.H-K

WASHING MACHINE. Haier. 6kg. VGC. $80. Thomastown. 0431 367 868.I-L

STIMULATOR. Clare. Instruction Manual included. VGC. $100. Frankston. 9789 9634 O-S

WETSUIT. Men’s. Wavelength. PFP Type 3. Suitable for waterskiing. Intended body mass 60kg. and cover, manufactured 2001. Catalogue No 3025, batch 0639. Rarely used, EC. $50. Greensborough. 0433 366 628.Q-W

WINDOW AIR CONDITIONER. VGC. $60. Thomastown. 0431 367 868.I-L

WORLD BOOK ENCYCLOPEDIA. Complete Set. $50. Frankston. 9789 9634 O-S

WROUGHT IRON Sewing Machine Marble Top. Suit Garden. VGC. $25. Surrey Hills. 0410 626 110. O-S

B-CURE LASER. Portable therapeutic device, either new or used in good working order. Price negotiable. Ashburton. 9885 2203.OS

WANTED for reale or wrecking. Richard, 0419 566 009.Q-W

LAURA ASHLEY Cotton Queen Coberlet set. Size 220cm x 240cm, plus 2 pillowcases. Plae blue with thin white stripes. Never used. $25. Ashburton. 9885

SAWS.

woodwork.

WELLNESS

WALL TILES. Johnson White bathroom 150 x 150mm. Approx 128 tiles. $60. Soal holder $10. Johnson wall tiles, 198mm x 198mm. Approx 60 tiles, $40. Yea. 0418 109 887. O-S

HORSE

Hardly

TRUCKS

Phone: 9489 2222 or 1800 231

FOR SALE

GRAVESITE PRIVATE SALE

Cheltenham Memorial Park Cemetery. Rare opportunity.

Located Coastal Rise N.130. 3 Burials plus Cremations. Idyllic position beside flowering Gums and Bench Seat.

Inspection will impress. 0417 55 6755

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