The Local Paper. Eastern Suburbs Edition. Wed., May 27, 2026

WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2026

NORTH-EAST LINK BREAKTHROUGH EVADED POLICE ACROSS SUBURBS

■ A man has been arrested after allegedly evading police in a suspected stolen vehicle through Melbourne’s north-eastern suburbs on Thursday morning.

The Air Wing spotted a suspicious vehicle on Dougharty Rd in West Heidelberg about 2.45am.

Officers attempted to intercept the vehicle on Waiora Rd in Heidelberg Heights before it took off at a fast rate of speed.

Another intercept was attempted on Banksia St in Heidelberg with the vehicle once again allegedly evading police.

The Subaru Outback, which is believed to be stolen, was followed through Bulleen, Templestowe Lower, Montmorency, Watsonia and Yallambie

Stop sticks were successfully deployed, puncturing all four tyres, before the vehicle came to a stop with the driver surrendering at the intersection of Grace and High Sts in Watsonia

A 29-year-old Wallan man is expected to be interviewed.

■ A major milestone has been reached on the orth East Link, with tunnel boring machine Zelda breaking through in Bulleen

This completes excavation on the first of the two three-lane tunnels: the northbound tunnel.

Zelda is one of two TBMs building Victoria’s largest road tunnel from Watsonia to Bulleen .

TBM Gillian is continuing excavation of the southbound tunnel and is expected to break through in the coming months.

The tunnels will provide a direct route for up to 15,000 trucks each day, reducing travel times by up to 35 minutes between Melbourne’s north and east.

More than 39,000 precast concrete segments manufactured in Benalla have been installed inside the tunnels.

Crews are now building the road inside the tunnels and installing electrical, lighting and safety systems.

Premier Jacinta Allan said: “This breakthrough is a major step towards fixing the missing link in Melbourne’s road network. “This project will deliver faster journeys, less congestion and get Victorians home sooner.”

● ● Matthew Guy, Bulleen MLA

■ Bulleen MLA Matthew Guy has warned of the danger of Victoria losing the hospitality sector because of State Government in action towards crime.

“We are about to lose an entire sector of our economy.” Mr Guy told the Legislative Assembly.

“Melbourne is about to lose its hospitality sector from the violence that is happening against small businesses, against family businesses, against established businesses.

“Whether it is tobacco wars or the vodka wars that are coming, this Government and this Premier have not even talked about this.

“We are going to see institutions in Melbourne close because the government is not doing anything to stop these wars against our hospitality sector.

“Whether it is people from overseas or whether it is gang violence that is from Melbourne , it is hurting small business,” Mr Guy said.

Print editions of The Local Paper are produced fortnightly. Next print issue is on Wednesday, June 10, following the King’s Birthday Holiday. Normal deadlines apply. Distribution will be one day later.

● ● Jacinta Allan, Premier

Photo: ABC News

New lights at Heathmont

■ Heathmont tennis players can look forward to maximising their court time at the Heathmont Tennis Club, thanks to the completion of lighting upgrades.

North-Eastern Metropolitan MLC Sonja Terpstra joined representatives from Maroondah City Council and the Club to officially flick the switch on the upgraded court lighting backed by $225,000 from the Government’s Local Sports Infrastructure Fund

The bright new lights open the door for more pathways and local development programs for keen local players.

There are now competition-compliant lights shining bright on the club’s courts, allowing the venue to operate safely and provide more playing time.

And new Book-a-Court infrastructure opens the courts to more locals to have a hit.

The State Budget 2026-27 is providing $24 million to support the development of high-quality, accessible community sports infrastructure across the state, including through the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund

Ms Terpstra acknowledges and thank s Maroondah City Council for its $260,000 and Tennis Australia for serving up $40,000.

“Thanks to these bright new lights, players at the Heathmont Tennis Club can look forward to more court time throughout the year.

“More playable hours mean the club will have even more opportunities to expand its programs and get even more locals in on the fun.

“Better facilities like these make it easier for people to lead active and healthy lifestyles, full of the health and wellbeing benefits offered by participating in sport and recreation,”: Ms Terpstra said.

Council Rounds

Better bus servives

■ Manningham Council is asking residents to have their say on bus services so it can advocate for investment in the municipality.

Manningham Mayor, Cr Jim Grivas, has urged the State Government to ensure the community has access to better bus services.

“We are the only metropolitan council in Victoria without trains or trams – buses keep us moving and ensure residents can get to school, work, appointments, and access local services,” said Cr Grivas

“Our community deserves public transport that is frequent, reliable and safe – particularly at a time when the rising cost of living is putting pressure on many residents.

“We want to hear directly from the community about how they use buses in Manningham, and what could be improved.

“Please let us know your thoughts on the quality and reliability of bus services so we can advocate to the State Government and ensure your concerns are heard,” said Cr Grivas.

“We want to hear from the community about:

■ How they use bus services in Manningham

■ What could be improved to make buses a better option for getting around.

yoursay.manningham.vic.gov.au/ better-bus-services

Meth, firearms, gold bullion seized in Eastern warrants

■ Seven people are facing serious drugs charges over their alleged involvement in a meth trafficking syndicate in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

The alleged syndicate was busted after a series of raids, where police seized methylamphetamine, firearms, gold bullion and large amounts of cash.

Detectives from the Croydon Divisional Response Unit have been investigating alleged methylamphetamine trafficking across the Knox area since July last year.

The investigation led to eight search warrants being executed on Tuesday, May 19, at homes and storage units in Bayswater Noth, Boronia, Croydon, Croydon Hills, Chirnside Park, Mooroolbark and Seville

During the searches, detectives uncovered approximately 800g of methylamphetamine worth $75,000, four firearms, and gold bullion valued at $22,000.

Jewellery

Designer handbags, a watch, jewellery, two vehicles and more than $200,000 in cash – all believed to be the proceeds of crime – were also seized alongside prohibited weapons including imitation firearms, batons, tasers, knuckle dusters, knives and ammunition.

Four men and two women were arrested:

A 22-year-old man and 23-year-old woman from Croydon Hills were arrested at a home on Campaspe Drive. It will be alleged police seized more than 600g of methylamphetamine from the property worth more than $60,000 as well as half a litre of 1,4-Butandiol, almost $35,000 in cash and an Audi believed to be the proceeds of crime. Both were charged with trafficking a commercial quantity of methylamphetamine, trafficking firearms and possessing proceeds of crime. The pair appeared in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday(May 20) where they were further remanded to reappear on August 12.

A 30-year-old woman was arrested at a home on Wallace Rd, Seville. There, investigators seized the gold bullion, and almost $150,000 in cash. The woman was charged with possessing and trafficking methylamphetamine, as well as possessing proceeds of crime. She was bailed to appear in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on May 26.

Sawn-off rifle

A 44-year-old man was arrested at a property on Connors Lane, Seville where police located a handgun, a pistol, a sawnoff .22 calibre rifle and a sawn-off shotgun. He was interviewed in relation to trafficking a drug of dependence and possessing firearms. He is expected to be charged on summons.

A 26-year-old man from Croydon was arrested in Wantirna South and charged with possess drug of dependence and commit an indictable offence whilst on bail. He was bailed to appear at Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on August 28.

Two men aged 23 and 36 were arrested at homes in Boronia and Bayswater North. Both were charged with possessing prohibited weapons and bailed to appear at Ringwood Magistrates’ Court at a later date.

Detectives from the Croydon Divisional Response Unit were assisted by the Knox, Maroondah, and Yarra Ranges Crime Investigation Units , the Critical Incident Response Team, Eastern Region Crime Squad, VIPER Taskforc e, the Croydon Family Violence Unit and the Dog Squad

Anyone with information about drug trafficking or suspicious activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Croydon Divisional Response Unit Sergeant Russell Church said: “If you make the very poor decision to distribute drugs, we will make no apologies in our relentless in our pursuit of you.

“The consequences of trafficking drugs extend far beyond an arrest; the charge carries with it a maximum prison sentence of up to 25 years and will affect future employment, relationships and your reputation. Anyone who thinks they can stay in the shadows and get away with trafficking drugs is sorely mistaken. “

New Bayswater plant

■ State Minister Colin Brooks has announced Corvus’s new advanced manufacturing facility in Bayswater.

The state-of-the-art facility will create 49 highly skilled jobs.

The facility is producing in-arm suspension units for armoured vehicles.

Local assembly in Victoria is expected to benefit the state’s supply chain, valued at an estimated $45 million over six years.

Thanks to a technology-sharing agreement with leading South Korean company MNC Solution, Corvus will gain advanced manufacturing technology and expertise not currently available in Australia

■ A new local service has officially opened in South-East Melbourne to support parents experiencing perinatal depression and anxiety.

Gidget House Clayton has now opened within Monash Medical Centre, part of Monash Health, Victoria’s largest public health provider, serving a quarter of Melbourne’s population.

● ● Sonja Terpstra MLC

57 years. Since 1969.

Police Beat

Armed robbery

■ Geelong Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged four people following an armed robbery where a woman was assaulted in Norlane

Four offenders approached a 55-yearold woman near an ATM machine on Robin Avenue about 4am on April 26.

It is alleged a woman, who was armed with a weapon, demanded cash from the victim before assaulting her.

Three other offenders allegedly assaulted the woman, pushing her to the ground.

The offenders stole the victim’s bags and a small quantity of cash, then fled on foot.

The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

Two people were arrested on 4 May as part of the investigation.

A 31-year-old Norlane man was charged with armed robbery and remanded to next appear at Geelong Magistrates’ Court on August 11.

A 27-year-old Norlane woman was charged with robbery and bailed to appear at Geelong Magistrates’ Court on August 11.

Police executed search warrants in Corio and Norlane on Thursday (May 21) and arrested a man and woman.

During the warrant, officers located a loaded firearm, drugs and prohibited weapons.

A 32-year-old Corio man was charged with armed robbery, affray, possess firearm, possess drug of dependence, possess prohibited weapon and possess proceeds of crime.

A 25-year-old Norlane woman was charged with armed robbery, affray, traffick drug of dependence, possess prohibited weapons (x2) and possess proceeds of crime.

They were both remanded and were to face Geelong Magistrates’ Court on Friday (May 22).

Fire at Wendouree

■ Police will prepare a report for the coroner following a fatal fire which occurred in Wendouree

Emergency services were called to a block of units on Marigold St after reports of a fire about 6.30am.

Crews extinguished the blaze and located a man inside who was extracted from the property unresponsive.

He was treated at the scene but could not be revived.

The cause of the fire is believed to be non-suspicious.

Blaze at Dallas

■ Fire Rescue Victoria was called to an incident on Boort St, Dallas after multiple callers to Triple Zero (000) reported a house fire on Saturday (May 23).

Further calls stated windows were exploding, so the response was escalated.

Firefighters arrived on scene within four minutes to find smoke and flames issuing from a single-storey house.

Fire crews donned breathing apparatus to attack the fire and prevent it from spreading to adjoining properties.

Two residents returned to the home at the time of the fire.

The fire was deemed Under Control at 5.06pm.

The cause of the fire is not yet known but it will be investigated by FRV specialists.

A Community Advice message was issued for smoke in the area.

Firefighters were to remain on scene to ensure the fire is fully extinguished.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2026

CAR THIEVES PUT ON NOTICE

Magistrates’ Court

■ A new investigation team has arrested 45 car thieves and recovered more than 100 stolen cars in the Ballarat area over the last eight weeks.

The Divisional Crime Investigation Team , which is made up of detectives, general duties and Highway Patrol, launched in late March to target rising car thefts and theft from cars.

Since then, the team has arrested 45 alleged car thieves and laid more than 100 charges including car theft, stealing from a car, handling stolen goods and dangerous driving.

Recent arrests include:

■ A 16-year-old boy from the Ballarat area who was arrested on May 9 following a series of car thefts across Ballarat between April 22 and May 4. A number of vehicles were allegedly stolen including a Toyota Hilux, Ford Everest, Ford Ranger, Subaru Outback and Toyota Rav4 . It will be alleged the boy deliberately swerved at police when they attempted to intercept the stolen Subaru on April 22. The boy has been charged with 22 offences including eight counts of car theft, two counts of reckless exposure of police officer to risk by driving, and theft from motor vehicle. He was remanded to appear before a children’s court at a later date.

■ A 21-year-old man who was located in an allegedly stolen red Toyota 86 coupe in Bacchus Marsh on May 5. Officers also discovered stolen property allegedly linked to a series of theft from vehicles in the Ballarat area. The Wendouree man was charged with theft of motor vehicle, three counts of handling stolen goods, fraudulently using registration plates and commit indictable offence while on bail. He faced Ballarat Magistrates’ Court and was bailed to appear again on June 4.

■ A 39-year-old man who attended a Sebastopol licensed venue in an allegedly stolen white Mazda utility on May 15. The vehicle had allegedly been stolen from the Ballan area the night before. Officers arrested the Ballarat East man inside the venue and charged him with theft of motor vehicle, handling stolen goods, possessing the proceeds of crime, unlicensed driving and going equipped to steal. He was bailed to appear before Ballarat Magistrates’ Court on July 13.

Detectives have also recovered more than 100 stolen cars as part of the operation.

Car theft continues to rise across the state, with the latest Crime Statistics Agency data showing more than 32,000 cars were stolen in 2025.

This has directly coincided with a surge in car thieves using key mimicking or cloning technology to override car security systems.

Statewide police intelligence estimates a third of all cars are now likely to be stolen in this manner.

The Ballarat local government area is seeing similar trends, with 769 vehicles stolen in 2025 – up from 10 per cent the year before.

In response, Ballarat police launched the Divisional Crime Investigation Team to identity, arrest and hold to account car thieves.

The operation will continue for the foreseeable future.

To help prevent thefts, police are urging owners of vehicles to look at a range of preventative measures to help deter thieves, including an on-board diagnostic port lock which prevents an offender connecting a reprogramming device to your vehicle.

These locks are highly affordable and self-installable.

Old fashioned club type locks on steering wheels and brake pedals are also still effective deterrents with observations of offenders walking away from cars fitted with these devices.

Opportunistic offenders continue to target unlocked vehicles, so police are also reminding drivers to always lock doors and windows and to remove valuables from plain sight.

Detective Inspector Andrew Brady, Investigation and Response Manager, said: “This new team has been working tirelessly - at all hours of the day and night – to locate car thieves and remove dangerous drivers from the road.

“We are determined to make Ballarat a hostile environment for car thieves and that’s evident in the 45 arrests and 100 stolen cars recovered.

“This important work will continue, however we ask the community to remain vigilant by always ensuring your vehicles are locked, parking off the street where possible and installing anti-theft measures.

“Our message to offenders is clear – if you choose to steal a car in Ballarat, you will be arrested and you will be held to account.”

Local Briefs

Assault at Geelong

■ Police have charged three teenagers following an assault in Geelong

It is alleged four female offenders assaulted a 13-year-old boy on Moorabool St about 5.15pm on Monday, May 18.

The boy was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Officers arrested three 14-year-old girls from the Geelong area.

They were all charged with affray and behave in a riotous manner in a public place.

They were bailed to appear at a children’s court at a later date.

Police believe the parties were known to each other.

One of the female offenders remains outstanding at this stage and investigations are ongoing.

Drysdale death

■ Detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a man following an alleged assault in Drysdale

Officers responded to reports of an altercation between two men at a property on Murradoc Rd about 11.20am on Sunday, May 10.

An 80-year-old man sustained lifethreatening injuries and was airlifted to hospital, where he died on Monday, May 18.

A 44-year-old man was arrested at the scene, interviewed by detectives and released pending further investigation.

Investigators believe the people are known to each other.

A postmortem will be conducted to determine the cause of death and the investigation remains ongoing.

Detectives are not searching for anyone else in relation to the incident.

Box Hill house fire

■ Fire Rescue Victoria responded to several Triple Zero (000) calls of a house fire in Box Hill on Thursday morning (May 21).

Several callers stated hearing explosions, glass breaking and fire so the response was escalated.

Crews arrived on scene within five minutes to find the house fully involved in fire.

FRV crews wore breathing apparatus to attack the fire and prevent it spreading to adjoining properties.

All occupants safely evacuated and were assessed by Ambulance Victoria

The fire was deemed under control by 4.09am.

The cause of the fire is not yet known but will be investigated by FRV specialists.

Firefighters remained on scene for some time to ensure the fire was fully extinguished.

450 might return

■ More than 450 former police have signalled interest in returning to perform station counter duties so serving officers are freed to get out into the community.

The response - recorded within just a week - comes as Victoria Police looks to recruit 200 reservists to perform a newlycreated frontline support officer role. It will see reservists perform a range of administrative duties at police station counters including answering phones, helping with paperwork, signing statutory declarations, receiving exhibits into police custody and taking crime reports, said a Victoria Police representative.

ARIES (March 21 – April 20)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 3-1-9-6

Lotto Numbers: 3-10-11-19-28-37

You seem to have an extra dose of charm and animal magnetism. Use it to your full advantage, and you can pursue matters of the heart with confidence. Health needs to be taken care of, as extra activity and excitement can take their toll if you overdo it.

TAURUS (April 21 – May 20)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 2-10-2-6

Lotto Numbers: 2-10-20-22-37-41

You could feel a little unsettled and not your usual practical self. It is best to follow your instincts and tie up any loose ends. Avoid unnecessary spending and focus on keeping your financial position stable.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 7-1-4-12

Lotto Numbers: 3-7-12-16-21-30

An opportunity may present itself, but you must stay alert; otherwise, it could pass you by. You could find yourself socialising with people who are well-positioned to help your career. A friendly and confident approach will open important doors.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

Lucky Colour: Brown

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

Lotto Numbers: 3-11-15-27-35-44

Many will finally receive rewards for their previous hard work and come out on top. Some could even consider starting their own business. However, be cautious in partnerships and make sure agreements are clear and fair.

LEO (July 23 – August 22)

Lucky Colour: Beige

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 3-7-7-4

Lotto Numbers: 3-13-14-27-35-42

Some of you may need to swallow your pride for the greater good. Avoid rushing situations and allow others to reveal their own mistakes. Keep a close watch on both your health and finances during this period.

VIRGO (August 23 – September 23)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 7-9-3-1

Lotto Numbers: 7-14-15-27-28-45

Matters may not yet be entirely clear, but improvement is underway. Continue working steadily and do not lose heart. Career advancement or financial improvement is possible if you remain diligent and focused.

LIBRA (September 24 – October 23)

Lucky Colour: Hot Pink

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 6-8-9-3

Lotto Numbers: 11-13-20-31-40-43

Big new plans may be forming, although you might not be able to act immediately. Perseverance is essential during this period. Something unexpected could arise and offer a promising new direction.

SCORPIO (October 24 – November 22)

Lucky Colour: Burgundy

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 7-9-11-3

Lotto Numbers: 18-28-34-36-38-41

Home improvements or changes to your environment may be on your mind. Career plans may experience delays, but do not let frustration get the better of you. Patience will serve you well.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 – December 20)

Lucky Colour: Royal Blue

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 9-4-2-6

Lotto Numbers: 3-10-16-23-24-36

This could be one of the luckiest periods you have experienced in some time, but avoid reckless gambling. Personal relationship matters should improve, and business affairs are likely to proceed smoothly.

CAPRICORN (December 21 – January 19)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 6-2-3-5

Lotto Numbers: 12-15-18-25-30-31

Travel or relocation plans should go smoothly, provided you double-check appointments and arrangements. Family relationships may need attention, and your practical ideas could bring positive results.

AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 19)

Lucky Colour: Jade

Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 6-1-2-5

Lotto Numbers: 5-10-23-26-30-34

Moments of happiness should prevail, and family members will be a source of joy. Business matters may present minor challenges, but your organisational skills will help you resolve them effectively.

PISCES (February 20 – March 20)

Lucky Colour: Pastel Blue

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 6-3-9-9

Lotto Numbers: 15-29-31-34-38-43

Changes and plans for your future may unfold more slowly than expected, but the groundwork has already been laid. The support of a loved one will greatly influence your decisions and outlook.

7000 UNWANTED APPROACHES

■ Transit Safety Division’s ‘STOPIT’ team have received more than 7000 reports of unwanted sexual and anti-social behaviour via STOPIT , since its launch in 2022.

STOPIT is a textbased notification service to help combat sexual offending on public transport and give commuters greater confidence when they travel.

Of the 7400 notifications, 85 per cent related to antisocial behaviour and 15 per cent related to unwanted sexual behaviour, with the majority of reports coming from incidents on trains.

Of those notifications, detectives have investigated 500 matters.

Those investigations have resulted in 77 people being arrested and charged for sexual offences.

These include:

■ A 26-year-old man was charged with sexual assault, sexual exposure in a public place and upskirting offences after he sexually assaulted a woman on citybound tram in June 2025. The STOPIT notification identified a further sexual exposure at a railway station. He was sentenced to three months imprisonment.

■ A 27-year-old man was charged with sexual activity directed at another person (3x) following an incident at Flinders St station in July 2025. The victim reported the matter via STOPIT including the platform, time, location and description of the male.

Investigators were able to identify the offender, and he was subsequently sentenced to 12 months imprisonment and placed on the for life.

Whilst there have been more than 7000 STOPIT notifications, detectives believe this number is underrepresented particularly in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities and the LGBTIQA+ community.

Information received also gives police a broader picture about behaviour across the public transport network, be it a particular train line or time of day.

The majority of STOPIT notifications are made between 3pm and 7pm.

This information means deployment of transit police is intelligence-led.

The service is not monitored live and commuters should always contact Triple Zero 00 0 in an emergency.

Superintendent Mark Zervaas, Transit Safety Division, said: “We want members of our community to be able to commute on public transport without feeling threatened.

“STOPIT is a fantastic tool to provide some reassurance to commuters that if they witness antisocial or unwanted sexual behaviour, they can quickly report it to police.

“Every piece of information received has helped us make the network a safer place for all commuters.

“We encourage all commuters to save the number in your phone and text

STOPIT (0499 455 455) if you experience or see unwanted sexual behaviour on the network.

“Your information could be the final piece of the puzzle we need to arrest an offender.”

SEC’s new academy

■ The Allan Labor Government says it will deliver Vic-toria’s first publicly-owned apprenticeship academy.

The SEC Apprenticeship Academy will offer 2000 electrical trade apprenticeships over the next four years.

“These apprentices will earn while they learn and deliver the workforce needed to build Victoria’s future,” said Ms Allan.

“And every single one of them will be employed by the SEC

“The SEC will become the largest employer of electrical apprentices in the state.”

Shadow Energy Minister David Davis said SEC promises were a “fraud”.

Before the last election, Labor promised the SEC would support 59,000 jobs and deliver lower energy prices for Victorians

“In the four years since, the SEC has failed to deliver a single new electricity generation project, as Melbourne electricity prices surge 23.8 per cent in the 12 months to February 2026,” Mr Davis said.

Letters to the Editor

Vote ‘No’ on ASIO amendmrnt bill

Sir,

I am writing to urge you to vote NO on the ASIO Amendment Bill No. 2 2025. This legislation poses a significant threat to the freedoms and rights of Australians by allowing extraordinary interrogation powers to become permanent.

Warrants for such interrogations would be approved by the Attorney-General rather than a judge, which raises serious concerns about oversight and accountability.

Furthermore, the absence of a right to silence, where refusal to answer questions could result in a prison sentence of up to five years, undermines the very principles of justice and liberty that our society stands for.

The implications of this Bill extend beyond individual rights; they threaten the fabric of our democratic values.

By compelling citizens to provide information without being charged with a crime, we risk creating an environment of fear and coercion.

I implore you to take a stand against this erosion of civil liberties and advocate for the protection of our democratic freedoms.

At the very least, please support extending the sunset clause to May 1, 2028 to allow for further scrutiny and debate on this critical issue.

Ross Lee, Doreen

The

Argus. Sat., May 26, 1951.

Girl kidnapped

■ A telephone number pencilled inside a shoe has put police on the track of a missing New Australian girl who was forced into a car and driven away by two men at Royal Park yesterday.

Two 10-year-old boys told police at 4.30 p.m. that they had just seen a girl, aged about 18, drag-ged from a telephone booth outside the Infant Welfare Depot, Royal Park

The boys said that two men had parked a large blue sedan car outside the booth.

They had half-carried the girl from the booth to the car. Her blouse, jumper, and a shoe had been ripped off in her struggles.

Wireless patrol police took possession of the clothing. The phone number of a North Balwyn chemist's shop was on the shoe's instep.

Police learned that a girl employed at the shop knows the New Australian girl as Eva Seldman , but does not know her address.

The shopgirl said that Eva recently mentioned that two New Australians had been threatening her.

Police think Eva may have seen the car approaching in Royal Park , and may have been telephoning for help.

Police are now looking for a man of about 30 years, 6ft., wearing black coat, white scarf, and grey hat; and another of about 26, 5ft. 9in., black curly hair, wearing brown overcoat, tartan scarf, grey hat.

The King has flu

■ London, Friday. The King is confined to his room in Buckingham Palace with a mild attack of influenza, it was announced in London today.

Doctors visited him this morning, but there will be no bulletins.

Princess Elizabeth will take her fathcr's place at the presentation of new Colors to the Third Battalion, Grenadier Guards, this afternoon, and at the presentation of the Kind's Color to the Royal Air Force in Hyde Park tomorrow.

Home on leave

■ Men of H.M.A.S. Bataan will enjoy their first home leave for 12 months when their shipb returns to Sydney next Tuesday after taking part in the Korean war. Bataan bears the reputation of being a "lucky" ship.

● ● ● ● The STOPIT app is not monitored live

Between The Lines

● ● Scott Middleton (Marx), Tref Gare (Joyce) and Seon Williams (Pandora Friedan) in Between the Lines. Photo: Jody Jane Stitt.

■ Bloomsday in Melbourne presents Between the Lines: The James Joyce/ Groucho Marx Letters from June 17 - 21 at fortyfivedownstairs.

Written by Steve Carey and directed by Renee Palmer, Between the Lines tells of a young scholar in 1987 making the discovery of the century – letters between James Joyce and comedy legend Groucho Marx.

Believing she has secured her legacy, she is ignorant of the fact that in the cutthroat Joyce Industry, credit rarely goes to a woman.

This literary mystery follows her descent into a patriarchal web of ego and academic theft, inviting audiences on a heady journey as her groundbreaking find is hijacked by the very mentor she trusted to protect it.

The cast includes Seon Williams, Christina Costigan, Scott Middleton (Groucho Marx), Tref Gare (James Joyce) and Shannon Woollard

An annual commemoration of Irish writer James Joyce, celebrated on June 16, Bloomsday is a worldwide event that marks the date in 1904 when his famous novel Ulysses takes place.

Named after the protagonist Leopold Bloom , this internationally celebrated day features literary readings, performances, costumed reenactments, and many more varied events.

Performance Season: June 17 - 21

Times: Tues - Sat 7.30pm, Sun 3.30pm

Tickets: $48 Full, $39 Concession, $35 Groups 4+ and Mob Tix

Bookings: fortyfivedownstairs.com/ event/between-the-lines-the-jamesjoyce-groucho-marx-letters

Enquiries: 9662 9966

Venue: fortyfivedownstairs - 45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne CBD bloomsdayinmelbourne.org.au

Duration: 85 minutes no interval

Age suitability: 16+

Warnings: Adult themes, references to sexual assault Cheryl Threadgold

Prairie Dog

■ The Victorian Swiss Club in Flinders Lane is a great Comedy Festival Venue - it's got a large bar and dining area for catch-up drinks or a tasty Swiss treat before the show - the rosti is a perfect preshow snack. Daniel Connell even weaved it into his comedy act with a delightful quip about how the Swiss love to climb - a reference to the levels of stairs we had to ascend to get to the venue. A regular of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival since 2011, Connell takes the stage with an easy swagger. His style is relaxed and assured, with a slightly blokey edge that never tips into excess. While there were moments where his quieter asides drift just below full audibility, his artful delivery is nuanced for maximum comic effect. Prairie Dog, his 2026 hour, draws deeply from everyday life. Connell has a talent for isolating the exact detail that makes an ordinary situation worth unpacking.

A highlight is in the tale about his child returning from childcare with a bag of what staff called “art”, that he reclassifies as “hard rubbish.” The suggestion they outsource their hard rubbish via the kids’ backpacks rather than paying for costly disposal is absurdly funny. Hilariously, his attempt to play them at their own game is an epic failure. Connell’s observational comedy is clever. It’s the kind of show that feels easy to settle into and just as easy to recommend, especially if you like your comedy grounded, wellshaped, and delivered without a hint of fuss.

Review by Beth Klein

CARYL SPARKLES WITH LAUGHTER AND FUN

■ Dynamic Melbourne-based entertainer

Caryl (Perry) Bowen was guest speaker at the 2026 Theatre Heritage Australia Annual General Meeting held in the Melbourne Athenaeum Library ,

In an interview with Diana Burleigh, Caryl shared fascinating stories of growing up in a show business family, with her talk enhanced by an interesting visual display.

Caryl's father was Jack Perry, half of the popular entertainers Zig and Zag . Her mother, Phillis , began a theatrical talent agency in 1943, the Phil Perry Theatrical Agency, as well as running another business from home, the Caryl School of Dressmaking

At age four, Caryl followed her father into entertaining and worked alongside him in comedic routines. There were some impressive radio show performances by the young comedienne.

Caryl would later partner her mother in operating their talent agency Perry Entertainments Pty. Ltd

Over the years, Caryl has created a number of personae for entertaining at events, including Sparkles the Clown, Fairy Floss and Witchazel, to name a few.

Her family-friendly acts include close-up magic and the manipulation of balloons and beads into keepsakes.

I personally was delighted to meet Caryl again, as in 1982, Sparkles the Clown performed at our daughter Camilla's fifth birthday party.

The children have always remembered Sparkles visiting our home and the joy she brought to all in attendance with her infectious laugh and clever entertainment.

When Caryl saw the photo of Sparkles and Camilla , she kindly gifted a little keepsake dog she skillfully created from gold beads to pass on to a (now grown up) delighted Camilla. A beautiful, thoughtful gesture.

Caryl and her husband John Bowen are also co-founders and active members of Melbourne's Showbiz Social Club and enjoy travelling to various parts of Australia Cheryl Threadgold

Franz

■ The biographical drama, Franz, depicts the life of Franz Kafka from his early childhood to his death at the age of 40 in 1924.

The film, written by Marek Epstein and directed by Agnieszka Holland, conveys a sense of the surreal in its two-hour running time where the linear biographical detail is interspersed with recreations of some of his stories, with modern day acolytes on tours to where Kafka lived, with commentary, at times, to camera, and with fragments from Kafka’s life.

Holland has also used the full repertoire of cinematographic technique to convey just how unusual Kafka’s thought process was; distortions, reflections, camera angles and imagery.

What emerges is an individual somewhat out of place in the bureaucratic world of Prague at the beginning of the 20th century attempting to find his place in life given the strict expectations of his father and the social expectation to conform.

One might even see his temperament as somewhat autistic. Writing seemed to provide him with the distance needed to avoid intimacy; he was engaged three times but never married. His perspective was also unique and quirky.

The existential is foremost as the film suggests but cannot confirm those forces and influences that might have shaped Kafka. His own psychology would have been an element fashioning his life as well.

Idan Weiss’ portrayal of the man captures the vulnerability and confusion of an individual who, only after his death, became the touchstone for the disorientation many people feel when confronted by modern day life. Now showing. sharmillfilms. com.au/franz/ for cinemas.

Review by David McLean

What’s On Opera Ayustralia’s

70th Anniversary Gala

■ Opera Australia’s 70th Anniversary Gala began with the popular William Tell Overture by Gioachino Rossini, led by internationally acclaimed conductor Giampaolo Bisanti.

Maestro Bisant i was pure joy to watch. His expressive and enthusiastic style had the audience fervently bouncing along with the well-known finale. It was like watching a fine ballet dancer in action.

The sumptuous majesty of the Regent Theatre was the perfect venue for such an auspicious occasion. This royal theatre will be celebrating its own100th anniversary later this year.

The Opera Australia principals displayed their dramatic and comedic talents in the thrilling Ecco il birbo from Mozart’s Don Giovanni and the witty, humorous Dite, chi e quella femmina from Rossini’s L’Italiana in Algeri’. They also amazed us with such technical skill and prowess, following conductor Sam Weller, who took this at an exhausting, rollicking pace.

The Opera Australia Chorus charmed us with their perfectly balanced, exquisitely executed Va Pensiero from Verdi’s Nabucco, following Bisanti’s intense dynamic contrasts.

Following two impressive Verdi ensembles, The Smugglers Quintet from Bizet’s Carmen, provided some lighter, familiar tunes to tap along to.

My personal highlight was the opening of Act Two, the blood-curdling battle cries of Opera Australia’s strong women’s chorus in Wagner’s The Ride of the Valkyries from the opera Die Walkure.

One needs a big theatre, a big pit and big voices to accommodate this formidable work of art.

Emma Matthews, Australia’s most highly awarded soprano, delighted us with a mesmerising delivery of The Nightingale’s Song from The Love Of the Nightingale by Australian conductor and composer Richard Mills

Tenor Diego Torre received rousing applause for his powerful Nessun Dorma, a favourite with the audience. Award-winning, talented Sam Weller , one of the designated winners of the International Conducting Competition in Rotterdam , returned to conduct the profoundly demanding Old Joe Has Gone Fishing with prodigious skill and aplomb.

The magnificent evening concluded with TheToreadorSong, the Triumphal Scene from Aida and the William Tell Finale

For further details of Opera Australia events, visit opera.org.au

Review by Lucy Nicolson

Hunchback of Notre Dame

■ While CLOC has since 1964 staged over 100 productions they now celebrate 16 years of show stopping musicals at the iconic The National Theatre, St Kilda with its production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. It must be said that CLOC is a non-professional, not for profit theatre company with all volunteering without payment for their part in any production.

The term non-professional however is misnomer in the case of CLOC as this production they have excelled, standing tall above those that are termed professional. I witnessed an extraordinary overwhelming performance of The Hunchback of Notre Dame that woul have give goosebumps to the creators, Music by Alan Menken, Lyrics by Stephen Swarrtz and Book by Peter Parnell.

Before giving credit to the cast and team, the story behind Victor Hugo’s book in 1831 tells the tragic story of humanity’s cruelty, yet compassion, set in Paris in 1482.

There is no doubt that CLOC’s Director Shaun Kingma , worked meticulously in drawing upon the talents of some 200 people to bring this story to stage. None more so than “his’” cast.

Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer played by Jackson Howe, showed remarkable dexterity in capturing the role, giving a strong and emotional delivery complete with arresting vocal renditions. His two solos Out There and Heaven’s Light stood out, showing his ability for sustaining long notes, powerfully and with lucidity.

Gypsy, Esmeralda, played by Teresa Giansiracusa was vibrant, immediately capturing the audience with her entrance in Rhythm oftheTambourine. Her character’s vulnerability was tested many times and particularly with that of Archdeacon Claude Frollo , played by Mike Gardiner , while a man of God had villainous desires. His stage presence was menacing, while his vocal range was immense.

Evan Evans as Clopin , the jester of th e Gypsies, and Thomas Bowman as Captain Phoebus , each played pivotal roles with great conviction, while supported by The Congregation of eminent actors. The Notre Dame Choir was something to behold as they provided constant harmonies from the beginning with The Bells of Notre Dame, right through to the Finale Ultimo.

Set and Staging, Choreography, Lighting, Sound, Costumes, Props and the Orchestra under Conductor David Clausen-Wisken were all five star. That says it all.

Until May 30 at the National Theatre, St Kilda . Bookings: cloc.org.au Review by Graeme McCoubrie

● ● ● ● Cheryl Threadgold (Ieft) with guest speaker Caryl (Perry) Bowen at the Theatre Heritage Australia AGM.

● ● Sparkles the Clown with Camilla Threadgold in 1982.

Photo: Malcolm Threadgold

Observations

All Night Vigil

■ Russian composer Rachmaninov wrote superb music – who could forget his Piano Concerto no 2, which was the theme of the famous classic movie Brief Encounter.

But Rachmaninov loved the human voice and penned many fine works for vocal ensembles, including his AllNightVigil(Opus 37), and the Melbourne Bach Choir will be presenting it in June.

Rachmaninov’s All Night Vigil (also known as ‘The Vespers’) will be sung in Church Slavonic, the liturgical language for all non-Greek churches in the Orthodox tradition, so concertgoers are in for thrills, challenge, and personal significance as each soloist brings their own unique and individual perspective.

As usual, Melbourne Bach Chamber Choir’s winter offering features fine soloists mezzo-soprano Belinda Paterson, tenor Michael Petrucelli and bass Aleksander Pokryshevsky, accompanied by Kathryn Pisani

That vocal work will get an airing from the Melbourne Bach Choir in the second of their four celebratory 20th anniversary concerts, at St John’s Anglican Church, Burke Rd, Camberwell, on June 12 at 7.30 pm.

The concert will also feature Art Songs by Ukrainian composer Jul'ij Meitus, which will be sung by the smaller MB Chamber Choir.

These six songs are particularly meaningful for MBC artistic director and chief conductor Rick Prakhoff, and bass Aleksander Pokryshevsky, as both musicians share Ukranian heritage.

The MBC May concert sold out, now is the time to get online and book tickets before they disappear. Visit trybooking.com

Julie Houghton

Selby and Friends

■ Now in its twentieth season, Selby and Friends tours this month with the highly anticipated return of two guest artists, performing in Melbourne in ' The Living Tradition on Thursday, May 28 at 2pm and 7pm at the Primrose Potter Salon, Melbourne Recital Centre.

Alexandra Osborne, SSO Associate Concertmaster, and Clancy Newman, Naumburg Award -winning cellist, will join Artistic Director and pianist Kathryn Selby for concerts of melodious chamber music.

On the program are piano trios by Fanny Mendelssohn and Franz Schubert - examples of the dawn of the Romantic period. Singular works by Australian composer Elena KatsChernin and Ludwig van

The Living Tradition includes Elena Kats-Chernin: Variation on Schubert Trauerwalzer (2009), Fanny Mendelssohn: Piano Trio in D minor, Op. 11 (1846-47), Ludwig von Beethoven: Variations on Ich bin der Schneider Kakadu, Op. 121a (1824), Franz Schubert: Piano Trio No. 1 in B-flat major, Op. 99 D 898 (1827).

Tickets start at $66 from www.selbyandfriends.com.au or at the door

Thursday, May 28 at 2pm and 7pm at the Primrose Potter Salon, Melbourne Recital Centre

Information and bookings at selbyandfriends.com.au info@selbyandfriends.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE

■ A parish parson, Mr Collins (Syd Brisbane), addresses the audience: “Dearly Beloved, it is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a quarter-acre block, one and a half baths, and a King single …”

Parading around a giant wedding cake set, Mrs Bennet (Emily Carr) laments to her husband, played by a Monstera pot plant, that their five daughters need husbands. The newly arrived, rich but feckless, Mr Bingley (John Marc Desengano) , is in want of a wife.

“What does it matter which one he chooses? We have a horde of them. Anyone will do.”

So begins Bloomshed’s riotous retelling of Jane Austin’s classic, but this is Pride and Prejudice, not as we know it.

Inspired and hilarious, the cast takes Austen’s tale of class and manners, and updates it with nods, winks, clever puns, and screwball physical comedy.

The ensemble cast of eight plays multiple roles, and all give superb performances.

Brisbane is a standout, switching between the fawning vicar, Mr Collins, and the much put-upon Kitty Bennet.

Lauren Swain brings outlandish bad boy vibes to the swaggering cad Wickham

Anna Louey plays Jane Bennet , the daughter chosen to be the family’s saviour, with increasing desperation.

Laura Aldous is equally rib-tickling as the raunchy Lydia Bennet and the haughty Caroline Bingley.

In one memorable scene, a trolley carrying a hot water urn, plastic cups, and tea bags is wheeled onstage as Elizabeth (Elizabeth Brennan) and Darcy (James Jackson) take tea with the formidable Lady Catherine de Burgh (Desengano). What follows is an excruciating silence, broken only by darting eyes and raised eyebrows, before the madcap frenzy returns.

Superb, sharply observed absurdist wordplay and satirical critique, moving at a rollicking pace, mark this outstanding production.

Performed at The Malthouse

Reviewed by Kathryn

Keeble

The Shepherds

■ The Shepherds, a collaborative piece, is being presented with Rising at Arts House, North Melbourne , June 5-7 as part of the inaugural Australian Dance Biennale.

The Shepherds is a dark and comedic dance work starring two lost sheep in a slaughter paddock, out to remake Australian mythmaking.

Carly Sheppard and Alisdair Macindoe are intrepid dance makers with seven Green Room awards and a Helpmann between them.

In this collaborative piece, they’re on their most transformative journey yet. Both lonely livestock, they’re grazing in a country that’s riding on a sheep’s back (that is trampling the land on the way through), on a quest to find the shepherd who sealed their fate.

Along the way, they wrangle their shared experiences of mysterious and broken familial ancestry—leaping into invented histories and worlds.

Mixed inheritances become accountable rites, living kinships and humane symbols. The consequences of Australia’s colonial invasion, with its devastation of ecology, First Nations peoples, knowledge, and lifeways, is led into new pastures.

Finding themselves driven by the question: how can we finish the stories we need to tell and leave behind a more fertile future?

Performance Season: June 5-7 presented with Rising at Arts House, 521 Queensberry St., North Melbourne Post-show artist talk for all ticket holders. Sat., June 6, 2pm show Auslan Interpreting Sun., June 7, 2pm Available on request – book by Thu. May 28

Tactile Tour and Audio Described Performance Sun., June 7, 2pm. Available on request – book by Thu. May 28

Bookings: artshouse.com.au

VABT Trivia Night

■ The Victorian Actors' Benevolent Trust inaugural Trivia Night was such a success in 2025 that another similar event, A Very AppealingShowbizTriviaFundraiser 2026, will be presented by the VABT on Saturday, June 13 from 7pm10.00pm at NEP Studios , 75 Coventry St, Southbank (formerly the Channel 7 studios).

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

Venue: NEP Studios, 75 Coventry St, Southbank (formerly Channel 7 studios) street parking available

Date and Time: 7pm-10pm, Saturday June 13

Tickets: $60 per head: BYO food and beverages (alcohol allowed) Tickets now available at: humanitix.com (search VABT) events.humanitix.com/very-appealingshowbiz-trivia-2026

Shows

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

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

■ BottledSnail Productions: Witness for the Prosecution (by Agatha Christie) Until 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) Until 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) Until May 31 at the Clayton Community Theatre, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: Steve Saul. Bookings: peridot.com.au

■ Beaumaris Theatre: Two Ladies (Nancy Harris) Until 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.

■ Mt Eliza Community Pantomime: Alice in Wonderland. June 5 – 7 – matinees and evening performances at the Mt Eliza Community Hall, 90-100 Canadian Bay Rd., Mt Eliza. Director: Robyn Walker; Choreographer: Kim Annette; Musical Director: Gina Reimers. Bookings: Trybooking.

■ The Basin Theatre Group: The Full Monty (by Simon Beaufoy) June 11 – 21 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Julie Cunningham. Bookings: thebasintheatre.com.au

■ PEP Productions: The Heartbreak Choir (by Aidan Fennessy) June 12 – 21 at the Doncaster Playhouse, 679 Doncaster Rd, Doncaster. Director: Justin Cleaver. Bookings:

■ Windmill Theatre Company: & Juliet, June 11 – 21 at Bunjil Place, Narre Warren. Director: Sienna Iscaro; Musical Director: Rachel Gorman: Choreographer: Guada Banez. Bookings: Trybooking.

■ MOARTZ Inc: Chalkface (by Ange Betzien) June 19 – 27 at Monash Hall, Reserve St., Yallourn North. Director: Mike Pullar. Bookings:

■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: The Father (by Florian Zellar translated by Christopher Hampton) June 14 – July 4 at the Warrandyte Mechanics’ Institute, 180 Yarra St., Warrandyte. Director: Grant Purdy. Bookings: trybooking.com/ DHJOP

Auditions

■ 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

Belinda Paterson

● ● ● ● Pride and Pejudice. Photo: Cameron Grant, Parenthesy

● ● ● ● Alisdair Macindoe and Carly Sheppard in The Shepherds Photo: Tiffany Garvie

Winton Raceway

■ The 49th Historic Winton Race and Display on May 30 and 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

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 .

Rourke’s Reviews

The Mandalorian And Grogu

■ (M). 132 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.

What is the first Star Wars film to reach the big screen since the deplorable The Rise Of Skywalker in 2019, what is apparent from the audience reaction at the screening I attended is, this is not a film for critics.

The joy from fans, particularly those of the popular TV series that has run for three seasons so far, shows that it will succeed more than what naysayers put forth.

Pedro Pascal (whose recent films include the vastly superior Materialists, Eddington and Freaky Tales) is back to voice the character of Din Djarin , the quiet bounty hunter loner who found a partner in Grogu , the small, Force -gifted creature who is the same species as Yoda

The story is set a year after Return Of The Jedi, beginning with an elaborate sequence that feels like a riff on Japanese soldiers holding out at the end of WWII.

Once Din survives this battle, he is soon hired by Colonel Ward (Sigourney Weaver, giving a more professional than committed performance), to rescue Jabba The Hutt’s son.

A deal is made, one that may prove beneficial to Din.

Co-writer/producer/director Jon Favreau, who created the hit TV series, knows his way around FX-heavy blockbusters, helming movies such as Iron Man 1 and 2, The Jungle Book and The Lion King.

Though he tries to propel the material with a fast pace and technical wizardry, this still feels like multiple episodes threaded together, pushing the familiar rather than invigorating a story in the kind of way that made audiences love Star Wars in the first place.

Buffs will love the voiceonly role of a legendary director. George Lucas and Steven Spielberg had a love for Saturday matinee serials ( Weaver’s presence is no coincidence either), and The Mandalorian And Grogu certainly wants to fall within that same category.

Sometimes sitting somewhere between Star Wars and Indiana Jones, this will satisfy most franchise audiences, but it still doesn’t come close to the original trilogy.

As far as the Disney entries go, this is also far from my favourite modern Star Wars film, Rogue One, which towers above the recent output.

I haven’t seen it, but friends also highly recommend the Andor TV series.

RATING - ***

The Backrooms: Complete shorts

■ (2021). 175 minutes. Available on YouTube.

This intriguing YouTube series, began in 2021, made by 16-year-old Kane Parsons , became a viral sensation, winning many fans and online imitators, and seen complete, successfully holds your attention for most of its almost three hour running time.

Set at various times during the 80s and 90s, this is presented as found footage, showing what happens when a company called Async attempt to use state-of-the-art technology to manipulate space to create opportunities to solve overpopulation and lack of space for new housing (sound familiar?).

The experiment doesn’t go to plan, causing parallel rifts, and as scientific teams attempt to investigate the why, they soon realise that there is something amongst the vast offices and corridors.

Seemingly inspired by The Philadelphia Experiment (1984), created by John Carpenter and starring Michael Pare , this fascinating sci-fi is compelling for quite a while, incorporating video links and company infomercials with starkly sterile scenes to explore what Async are trying to do, but not fully aware of what they are doing to time, space and the people they are trying to help.

During this section, which takes up a majority of the series, it is enthralling, but unfortunately it falls into repetitive, trapped-and-chased setpieces in its final hour that diminishes its overall impact (these latter scenes are however very well executed).

One has to take into account that this was originally watched in short segments, so this late flaw may be purely unintentional.

Parsons blends various forms of technology to believable effect, and it is again hard to believe he was a teenager when this was crafted.

The talented Parsons has now directed a feature film version, set around the same time as the events in the series, and is out in cinemas on Thursday.

Reportedly helped by filmmaker Osgood Perkins (Longlegs, The Monkey, Gretel & Hansel), one hopes Parsons makes a successful transition to the big screen.

RATING - ***½ Aaron Rourke

● Aaron Rourke

Making The Grade Thinking Caps

Sexism worsening

■ From lurid innuendos to verbal abuse and physical assault, female teachers are bearing the brunt of a new wave of sexism and misogyny in Australian schools according to research from Adelaide University. Published in Gender and Education, the study points to the influence of the online manosphere – which frames masculinity around dominance and claims that gender equality has disadvantaged men – alongside policy gaps and systemic issues that researchers say are contributing to extreme incidents of gendered abuse in classrooms.

The research characterises the behaviour as deliberate and predominantly enacted by boys and young men who are attempting to gain status, impress their peers or challenge female authority.

Uni doors open

■ Universities Australia supports the Federal Government’s efforts to meet Australia’s growing demand for university by making an extra 9500 places available in 2026.

“This is great news for people wanting to go to university,” Chief Executive Officer Luke Sheehy said.

“Every Australian who wants a degree should to able to get one, and these new places will help.

Music while studying

■ A new study from Edith Cowan University has surveyed more than 220 university students about whether they listen to music while studying and if it helps or hinders their focus.

The findings suggest that the impact of music on study performance is not one-size-fits-all and instead shaped by individual differences in how people engage with music.

NOW OR NEVER FOR UNIVERSITIES

■ Vice-Chancellor and leading constitutional expert Distinguished Professor George Williams has called for Australian universities to reclaim their civic purpose, rebuild trust and recommit to serving students and communities.

“The time has come for a reckoning in Australian higher education,” said Professor Williams.

“Decades of policy decisions have made access to higher education harder for those who need it most.

“Public trust and community confidence in universities in Australia and overseas are at all-time lows, and ad hoc and insufficient government funding has forced universities down the path of corporatisation, further pushing them away from their mission to serve the public good.

“Political sentiment has shifted. Our centres of higher learning have leapfrogged big business to become easy political targets.

“And it’s no surprise; the sector has scored its fair share of own goals over the handling of unpaid wages, Vice-Chancellor salaries, free speech and safety on campus.

“Yet, despite the media storm around the state of our universities, rarely does the issue of student poverty and the interests of those the system should serve enter the debate.”

With a focus on centring the needs and experiences of students and communities — the very people the system should serve — in Aiming Higher: Universities and the future of Australian democracy, Professor Williams weaves together expert analysis of the higher education sector with deep personal engagement and understanding of the needs of students today.

Drawing on his expertise in Australian constitutional law and democracy, Prof. Williams argues that universities must take charge of their future — claim agency,

● ● Professor George Williams tackle the issues within their control, and replace self-interest with a genuine commitment to putting their students and communities first.

Without a reset, the future looks grim. At a time when the nation requires critical thinkers, researchers and innovators more than ever, our universities must guard against misinformation, reconnect with their mission, and help shape a stronger democratic future.

Gifted education

■ More targeted gifted education programs and teacher training help ensure the substantial potential of gifted students does not go untapped.

A lack of specialised training in gifted education leaves many teachers illequipped to identify and cater for gifted students, says an expert in gifted education from UNSW Sydney.

Gifted students are those who have the potential – across intellectual, creative, social and/or physical domains –in the top 10% of their age peers. They may be identified from as young as two years old.

More accommodation

■ Campus Living Villages has secured a $70 million loan from the Federal Government to support the construction of a new Charles Darwin University student accommodation building opposite the Danala Education and Community Precinct

The funding is being delivered through the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility with support from the Federal Minister for Northern Australia, Madeleine King , who visited the University’s newest campus.

Green schools

■ Monash University experts are calling for a radical rethink of the Australian school estate.

With new data showing that net zero transitions can slash school power bills by nearly $5 million annually and significantly boost student health, the push for green schools has moved from a "nice-to-have" to an economic and educational necessity.

Professor Alan Reid said In Victoria alone, initiatives like the Greener Government School Buildings program are already projected to save schools more than $4.9 million on power bills

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

Places To Go

Travel Briefs

Europe here

■ With many Australians reconsidering European travel this year because of the political situation, Fondue Chalet and DoubleTree by Hilto n have partnered to create a European-style winter escape in Australia , recreating the atmosphere of the French Alps in the heart of Melbourne

See Croatia

■ Specialist small-ship cruising company Unforgettable Croatia has launched its 2027 small-ship cruising program, featuring 131 guaranteed departures. The luxury operator will offer 12 cruise itineraries, and nine cruise and land journeys, during the season, taking place from May to October across six ships, with a maximum of 18 cabins.

Extra costs

■ Almost one in three (32 per cent) of Melbourne travellers have been hit with unexpected baggage fees in the past 12 months, being charged an average of $111.

■ A resurgence of illegal fishing in northern Australian waters is cause for environmental, bio-security and social concern, and new research suggests the causes of this activity are increasingly complex.

The project, funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research, was conducted by a team of researchers from Charles Darwin University and Indonesia’s National Research and Innova tion Agency, and Nusa Cendana University.

The Australian Fishing Zone covers waters from three nautical miles to 200 nautical miles off the Australian coast.

Illegal Indonesian fishing incursions in the zone have become a pervasive issue in the last five decades, with 361 boats apprehended in 2005 to 2006 alone.

Despite significant investment from the Australian Government in the surveillance, enforcement, apprehension and prosecution of fishers, the zone has experienced an influx of illegal fishing activity post-COVID ● ● There are increasingly complex reasons for illegality.

Finn cuisine

■ Finland, named the world’s happiest country for the ninth consecutive year in the UN World Happiness Report, has announced Finland's Official Tasting Table. The curated, four-day culinary experience will take place at some of the country's most stunning locations, hosted by the Finns behind the food and designed to introduce Finnish cuisine to the world.

Best views

■ Two new beachfront tiny homes with luxe rooftop sun decks and unparalleled views over iconic destination Clarkes Beach and The Pass are turning heads as an “accommodation first” at Reflections Byron Bay and the village of Byron in northern NSW

Safer trams

■ The State Budget is investing $76 million in the tram network, including to deliver level access tram stops on some of Melbourne’s busiest streets.

Places To Go

WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2026

Bush Telegraph

Horticulture leaders

■ The Victorian Farmers Federation has announced the appointment of a new leadership team for VFF Horticulture group, with Goulburn Valley farmer Michael Crisera elected as President.

Joining the leadership group are Kain Richardson as Western Region Councillor, Monre Meyer as Central Region Councillor and Dean Gazzola as Central Region Councillor.

Climate effects

■ A new project by Charles Darwin University aims to better understand the impact of the climate extreme on the agricultural industry.

The project, led by CDU's Northern Institute , aims to explore how rising temperatures are affecting labour productivity, operational costs, crop and livestock production, and the long-term sustainability of agricultural businesses in Australia.

Cattle taskforce

■ The Australian red meat and livestock industry has announced the establishment of the Indonesia Live Cattle Industry Taskforce, a strategic advisory body designed to enhance collaboration, guide investment and strengthen outcomes in Australia’s most important live cattle export market.

VITAL RESERVE KEEPS FARMS GOING

■ The Victorian Farmers Federation welcomes the State Government’s announcement to secure a vital 10 million litre diesel reserve for Victorian agriculture industry.

VFF Acting President Peter Star said it was a sensible step to strengthen confidence across the sector and a step in the right direction after sustained advocacy from farmers and the industry.

“Securing this vital diesel reserve is a practical and welcome move that gives farmers greater confidence after one of the most volatile periods in recent memory.\

“Farmers have been at the coal face and bearing the brunt of diesel scarcity. Without a reliable supply of diesel, our industry grinds to a halt and so does our ability to produce food and fibre.

“This move will help ensure farmers can keep farming and providing food for our supermarket shelves.

“This is something the VFF has been advocating for and it’s pleasing to see that message being heard.

“The next logical step is working towards the ability to store more fuel on-farm to help cushion farmers from any future shocks,” Mr Star said. It must be part of a broader, coordinated approach to supporting agriculture.

Whiparound

Drought nearby

■ Ongoing dry conditions are not only reducing feed and water availability, but forcing difficult decisions about livestock, production and the future of their farms in eastern Australia Rural Aid support is increasingly important to how they are managing through the conditions.

Canola grows

■ Expanding domestic crushing capabilities will be key to scaling up Australian canola production in the future, Rabobank says in new industry research. The specialist global agribusiness bank says Australia has the capacity to lift its average annual production of canola – the country’s primary oilseed crop – to around seven million tonnes a year over the next 10 years, up from recent annual averages of 6.5 million tonnes.

Carp alliance formed

■ Victorian Fisheries Authority is part of a Carp Action Alliance to deal with Australia’s invasive carp problem. This comes after the VFA co-hosted the Murray Darling Carp Action Summit in Nagambie, bringing together more than 80 community leaders from across Australia’s fishing, conservation, farming and scientific sectors.

● ● Peter Star, VFF A/President

Places To Go

Places To Go

Senior Service

Aged care caps

■ The Federal Government's decision to defer price caps for the Support at Home aged care program protects older Australians from unintended consequences, Catholic Health Australia said. CHA also strongly backed the announcement of consumer protections it had advocated for, including new powers for the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission to order refunds where providers are found to be overcharging.

Palliative re-think

■ Australia must fundamentally rethink how it supports people living with dementia, with palliative care introduced earlier and more consistently, leading palliative care physician Dr Michael Chapman has told a National Palliative Care Week audience.

Speaking at a Special Guest Lecture, Rethinking Dementia and End-of-Life Care, at Parliament House, Dr Chapman called for a shift in how dementia care is understood, planned and provided.

Dementia is now the leading cause of death among older Australians , but many people are still not recognised as needing palliative care until very late in their illness. He said this means too many people with dementia are missing out on support that could improve quality of life.

DOWNSIZERS SEEK UNIQUE SOLUTIONS

■ Intergenerational living is on the rise but with it also being synonymous with cramped homes and a lack of independence, Australians are seeking unique solutions offering the benefits of the trend but without having multiple generations under the one roof.

With Australia facing an aging population, more downsizers are now having to consider the needs of their parents as they embark on their own retirement journey.

One family who found the right balance is the Goldsworthys who recently made the move to Waterline Place by AVJennings (now AVID Property Group) in Williamstown , after seeking out a new home which suited both their retirement and changing family needs.

Shane Goldsworthy and his wife Liz were initially drawn to Waterline Place because of the ability to lock up and leave after they had returned from a caravan trip around Australia to find their home in need of some desperate ‘TLC’

“Having recently retired, we had spoken about downsizing, and this was just the push we needed to find something we could easily pack up and feel confident our home was secure when we’re away,” Mr Goldsworthy said.

Senior Moments

Wait for aged care

■ New figures show it takes 12 months on average to get a spot in an aged care home or receive at-home support. These were released as part of the first report on wait times from the new Aged Care Act Professor Hal Swerissen said: “The pace of reform in aged care is too slow. Without additional aged care places, many older people and their families will continue to live with inadequate support at home or be stuck in a hospital bed.”

My Aged Care overhaul

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

The review found that My Aged Care is onerously complex to navigate and not tailored to the needs of older people; it is poorly understood due to a lack of awareness; the delivery model is not fitfor-purpose; and there is a lack of equity for older people from diverse backgrounds or complex needs.

Older Persons Advocacy Network CEO Craig Gear said the findings are not surprising given what it is consistently heard from older people, with My Aged Care in need of an overhaul.

● ● ● Liz and Shane Goldsworthy

WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2026

In The Pink The Pulse

Surgery in the home

■ Ambulance Victoria, in partnership with The Alfred , has delivered worldleading medical care to a Brighton living room, performing emergency surgery inside the family home to save the life of a father in cardiac arrest.

Peter , 56, is alive today thanks to treatment with a complex portable heart-lung machine, known as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, normally reserved for use only in hospital operating theatres and intensive care units.

It replaces the function of the heart and lungs, allowing blood to be pumped outside the body, removing carbon dioxide and sending oxygen-filled blood back into the body.

Melbourne was the first city in Australia and one of only a handful around the world where pre-hospital ECMO is being delivered. Peter was the 41st patient in Melbourne to receive ECMO treatment at home.

‘Minister concedes’

■ Victorian Health Minister Harriet Shing has effectively conceded the Allan Labor Government is out of ideas to tackle the state’s ballooning elective surgery lists and broader health crisis, according to Shadow Minister Georgie Crozier.

Ms Crozier said that under questioning by the Victorian Parliament’s Public Accounts and Estimates Committee, Ms Shing failed to answer basic questions, including:

■ Why Victoria’s elective surgery waitlist has ballooned to more than 68,000 patients – an increase of more than 4000 in just three months.

■ How many patients waiting for vital surgery are children.

■ How many Victorians have died while waiting for surgery.

■ Why graduate nurses and paramedics can’t get a job at a time when the system is under huge pressure.

■ Whether Ambulance Victoria has the resources it needs to fill daily rosters.

“ Ambulance Victoria CEO Jordan Emery made the extraordinary admission that Flexible Work Arrangements are challenging and had a major impact on the ability to fill shifts, directly affecting the availability of ambulances.”

Ms Crozier said: “It’s disappointing that Labor continues their spin, deflection and weasel words as patients can’t get the care they desperately need.

“If the Minister can’t be upfront in this committee about the true state of Victoria’s health system, then why would any Victorian believe her?

“Victorians are paying the price for Labor’s mismanagement of the health system,” Ms Crozier said.

Gut problems

■ New research from Metamucil's Great Fibre Gap Audit has uncovered a significant disconnect between how Australians perceive their gut health and what's actually happening.

Despite most Australians (61 per cent) believing they're getting enough fibre, national nutrition data shows around seven in 10 Australian adults do not consume the recommended daily amount. That shortfall is playing out in everyday life:

■ Nearly half (47 per cent) of Australians experience weekly digestive issues including bloating, irregularity and that heavy, sluggish feeling

■ More than one in five (22 per cent) have cancelled or delayed plans due to digestive discomfort

■ Poor gut health is affecting mood (45%), energy levels (43%), sleep quality (31%) and even confidence (30%).

GENETIC THERAPY TO LOWER CHOLESTEROL

■ The Victorian Heart Hospital and the Victorian Heart Institute will lead a firstin-human clinical trial of a new investigational genetic therapy that aims to lower cholesterol in people at increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

The Victorian Heart Hospital, operated by Monash Health in partnership with Monash University, will be the first clinical trial site globally to begin testing the investigational therapy STX-1150, developed by Scribe Therapeutics

The therapy is designed to reduce LDL (‘bad’) cholesterol by targeting a gene in the liver called PCSK9, a well-established regulator of cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk.

Elevated LDL cholesterol is a major cause of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes.

STX-1150 uses a next-generation CRISPR-based approach known as epigenetic silencing.

One-time infusion

Delivered as a one-time infusion, the therapy is designed to reduce cholesterol levels for an extended period without permanently altering a person’s DNA.

Principal Investigator of the study, Professor Stephen Nicholls , Director of the Victorian Heart Hospital and Victorian Heart Institute , and Professor of Cardiology at Monash University , said the trial represented another major step forward in developing more durable approaches to cardiovascular prevention.

“The best way to treat heart disease, the leading cause of death globally, is to prevent it,” Professor Nicholls said.

“While existing cholesterol-lowering therapies are highly effective, many people still struggle to maintain long-term treatment due to cost, access, side effects, or the burden of ongoing medication.

Reduction

“This new investigational therapy is designed to provide sustained cholesterol reduction following a single treatment, which could significantly change how we manage cardiovascular risk in the future. This represents the new frontier of cardiovascular medicine.’

“It is incredibly exciting that Victorians and Australians will again play a leading role in the development of next-generation genetic therapies for heart disease.”

The Phase 1 study will assess the safety, tolerability and biological effects of STX1150 in adults with elevated LDL cholesterol who are at increased cardiovascular risk.

The trial plans to enrol up to 64 participants across sites in Australia and New Zealand , with participants monitored for one year following treatment.

The study follows regulatory clearance from Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration and builds on growing international interest in genetic approaches to cardiovascular disease prevention.

Women’s pain real

●

● The green whistle (Penthrox) is now available at all Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Hubs.

“It’s a safe, fast acting and dignified pain management option available for free for IUD insertions and removal,” said a State Government representative./

The rollout was a promise made by the Allan Labor Government following the release of Victoria’s landmark Inquiry into Women’s Pain.

Professor Stephen Nicholls Professionals vote ‘Yes’ for action

■ Victorian allied health professionals, outraged at what they say is the lack of respect shown by the Allan Government and Victorian public health services, have turned that anger into action by voting to take protected industrial action.

After more than eight months of bargaining, the professionals say that the Allan Government has still not provided a wages offer.

“Allied health professionals feel they are the invisible health workforce – ignored and disrespected. That is all about to change,” said a representative of the Victorian Allied Health Professionals Association.

They returned ballots endorsing protected industrial action, with an overwhelming ‘YES’ vote.

An average of 92.87 per cent of members across 43 health services voted, with 98.73 per cent supporting action. Fifteen health services recorded 100 per cent turnout and 100 per cent ‘YES’ votes.

Allied health professionals say theyu have sent a resounding message to Victorian public health services and the Allan Government that they mean business.

“It has been nearly 10 years since allied health professionals marched in Melbourne demanding better pay and career structure reform.

“Since then, they have faced a decade of wage restraint, austerity, rising demand for their services, escalating workloads, the pressures of frontline pandemic work, and now workforce shortages with serious attraction and retention issues.

“With negotiations stalled, allied health professionals have overwhelmingly voted to take protected industrial action to advance their claims for better pay, conditions, and respect.”

VAHPA will lodge notices with the 43 affected health services, with protected industrial action set to begin thois week and further action to follow, said the VAHPA representative.

Diptheria outbreak

■ Australians are being urged to visit a community pharmacy to check their vaccination status for diphtheria, following a significant increase in cases reported nationally in 2026.

Pharmacy Guild of Australia National Vice-Presiden t Simon Blacker said vaccinations are vital at every age. The largest proportion of new cases has been occurring in adults aged 25-44 years who accounted for 46 per cent of cases*.

“Community pharmacists can quickly and easily help people check their vaccination records, provide expert advice and, where appropriate, administer diphtheria-containing vaccines — often with no appointment required,” said Mr Blacker.

“Diphtheria is affecting Australians well beyond childhood, particularly younger and middle-aged adults. We know significant numbers of people are not up to date for their boosters.

“Checking your vaccination status is a simple step, and community pharmacies are uniquely placed to make that process fast, accessible and convenient.”

Community pharmacists across Australia access and update the Australian Immunisation Register , helping patients understand whether they are fully protected and providing tailored advice based on age, risk and local requirements.

Mr Blacker said: “A quick visit to your local community pharmacy will give you the information you need. It’s particularly important if you can’t recall when you had your last vaccination; haven’t had a booster in over 10 years; are working with vulnerable people, or if you are pregnant.”

Pharmacists are authorised to administer diphtheria-containing vaccines across Australia , with age eligibility varying by state and territory:

There are more than 6000 community pharmacies across Australia , many open evenings and weekends, providing frontline healthcare access when other services may be limited or unavailable.

“You don’t need to book ahead or wait weeks for an appointment. You can simply walk into your local pharmacy and get advice from a trusted health professional.”

To patients faster

■ Ambulance Victoria paramedics and first responders are getting to patients needing lifesaving care faster as hospital clearing times in the Metropolitan Region are said to continue to improve.

Metropolitan Regional Director Tarryn Whitmore said in the Metropolitan Region, paramedics and first responders responded to 65,728 Code 1 cases between January and March.

“The quicker response times are thanks to the incredible efforts of our hard-working crews who are clearing hospital more than four minutes faster than a year ago,” Ms Whitmore said.

“When we leave hospital faster, we can get back out into the community faster – and that means better outcomes for patients facing critical life-threatening emergencies.”

Hospital clearing times are the duration between an ambulance crew completing their patient handover and being available to attend another case.

The average clearing time in the Metropolitan Region has dropped from 33 minutes between January and March 2025 to 28.5 minutes between January and March 2026.

The latest performance data shows improvement across Victoria with emergency ambulance crews responding to 66.4 per cent of Code 1 cases within the state-wide target of 15 minutes between January and March this year, up from 65.1 per cent in the previous quarter.

● ● ● ●

■ You won’t see any of the old Blondie films played on “free to air” television these days. You might see them on Channel 31 or on DVD but that’s about it.

The films were based on the popular comic strip by Chic Young American actor Arthur Lake played Dagwood Bumstead in a series of 28 Blondie films between 1938 and 1950.

Arthur Silverlake was born in Corbin, Kentucky, in 1905. When he was three Arthur and his sister Florence joined their parents in a family vaudeville act.

Arthur made his stage debut when he was 12 in the pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk

In 1924 he got a job at Universal Studios in a series of “two reelers.” His surname was changed to ‘Lake’ by the studio executives.

He appeared in some important films which included: Indiscreet (1931) with Gloria Swanson , Silver Streak (1934), Orchids to You and Topper with Cary Grant (1937).

In 1937 he married 18-year-old Patricia Van Cleeve . Shortly after the wedding Arthur was signed by Columbia Studios to play Dagwood Bumstead in the first Blondie film.

He actually looked like the character of Dagwood in the comic strip.

Penny Singleton was cast as Blondie. The first film was so successful that they immediately began working on the series.

Some of the titles included Blondie Meets the Boss, Blondie Takes aVacation,

Whatever Happened to ... the Arthur Lake

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

Blondie Brings Up Baby, Blondie Knows Best and Blondie Hits the Jackpot

Many famous stars got their first screen roles in the Blondie series – Rita Hayworth, Larry Parks, William Frawley and Lloyd Bridges

When the radio series began in 1939 it was panned by the critics but it was very popular and ran for 11 seasons.

In 1943 Arthur and Patricia had their first child Arthur Patrick and the following year their daughter Marion was born.

Although Arthur Lake was typecast as Dagwood he would say: “The only time I get to eat regular is when I’m playing dopes, so why should I yell about being typecast. I’m grateful to Hollywood . Where else could I make so much money as I do?”

There was a television series of Blondie

in 1954 with Pamela Britton and Arthur Lake but it only lasted a year.

Will Hutchins from the TV western Sugarfoot was in a television revival playing Dagwood but it was not successful either.

Arthur had invested wisely and in retirement Arthur and Patricia were able to do a lot of travelling together.

Arthur Lake suffered a heart attack at his home in 1987 and passed away in the emergency room at the Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage Patricia passed away in 1993.

I fondly remember Dagwood running late for work and bumping into the mailman Mr Beasley as he dashed out the front door and his familiar cry of Blonnnndie!

Ah those were the days.

The Blondie comic strip is still running in newspapers throughout the world.

Anyone for a Dagwood Sandwich ? 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

MICHAEL HALE EXHIBITS AT MORN. PENINSULA

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.

The Cuckoo, The Herring and The Trembling Tambourines – Michael Vale

Michael Vale is a Melbourne -based artist, whose practice brings together Romantic traditions, absurdist theatre, dark fiction and a mischievous sense of humour.

Over several decades, he has developed a distinctive visual language that fuses the grandeur of dramatic landscapes with the unexpected of surreal and often comical figures.

His paintings and installations are populated with spectral characters, cartoonish costumes and shadowy, theatrical backdrops that unsettles as they amuse.

Exhibition closes May 31.

■ Confined 17 provides a dedicated space for First Nations people who have experienced incarceration in Victoria to share their stories, culture and lived experiences through the artworks they produce.

This exhibition serves as a program reflection on the disproportionate presentation our First Nations Australians in our criminal justice system, underscoring the urgent need for change.

Exhibition closes Saturday June 14. Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery Civic Reserve Dunns Rd, Mornington

Town Hall Gallery

Desire Lines – Anna Kiparis

Photographer Anna Kiparis explores the unofficial dirt trails that form when walkers consistently choose a more direct or convenient route instead of following a planned path, known as “desire lines”.

Walking through nature is an essential ritual for Kiparis , finding comfort and calm in the repetitive movement and taking notice of the details to the local landscape around Gardiners Creek.

Documenting these desire lines and surrounding scenery with her camera allows Kiparis to take moments of pause while contemplating human impact on natural landscapes.

This exhibition invites reflection on our relationship with nature and the marks we leave behind, acknowledging the universal impulse to wander, deviate and forge our own path.

Exhibition closes June 13.

■

Slow Read

In an era of constant scrolling and visual saturation Slow Read turns our attention back to the printed page and to quiet, deliberate acts of looking and reading.

The featured artists are all down to printed matter, creating artist books and multi-disciplinary artworks that explore the possibilities of the book format.

Within this exhibition, artist0held publishing os recognised as a rich creative practice and an art form at its own right.

Exhibition closes July 26.

Town Hall Gallery

360 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn

MAPh

The Arts

With Peter Kemp

Rollercoaster – Brook Andrew winhangadurinya in motion

In 2026 the Museum of Australian Photography presents major commission by Brook Andrew , one of Australia’s most influential and internationally recognised artist.

Working across visual art, research and longterm collaboration, Andrew’s practice reveals and reimagines the legacies of power and representation that continue to shape how histories are produced, circulated and understood.

His work brings the unseen into view, unsettling inherited narratives and proposing new ways of seeing the entablement of historical structures with contemporary life.

This practice is informed by Andrew’s perspectives as a Wiradjuri and Ngunnawat person, and by sustained engagement with archives, museums and global systems of display.

Exhibition opens June 6 and close August 30. MAPh 861 Ferntree Gully Rd, Wheelers Hill Peter Kemp

Spotlight on the arts

■ The Coalition has made representations to the Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion that it establish a dedicated block of hearings into Australia’s arts institutions and public broadcasters, including the ABC and Creative Australia

“Publicly funded cultural institutions do not operate outside the national conversation. They shape public debate, influence cultural norms and carry significant responsibilities to foster social cohesion and combat hatred in all its forms,” said Senator Sarah Henderson.

“Recent events have raised serious questions about whether some institutions have responded with sufficient urgency, consistency and transparency to rising antisemitism. The ABC has faced sustained criticism and public concern over aspects of its Middle East coverage, complaints handling processes and broader editorial approach.”

● ● Arthur Lake

Winton Raceway

■ The 49th Historic Winton Race and Display on May 30 and 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

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 .

Rourke’s Reviews

The Mandalorian And Grogu

■ (M). 132 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.

What is the first Star Wars film to reach the big screen since the deplorable The Rise Of Skywalker in 2019, what is apparent from the audience reaction at the screening I attended is, this is not a film for critics.

The joy from fans, particularly those of the popular TV series that has run for three seasons so far, shows that it will succeed more than what naysayers put forth.

Pedro Pascal (whose recent films include the vastly superior Materialists, Eddington and Freaky Tales) is back to voice the character of Din Djarin , the quiet bounty hunter loner who found a partner in Grogu , the small, Force -gifted creature who is the same species as Yoda

The story is set a year after Return Of The Jedi, beginning with an elaborate sequence that feels like a riff on Japanese soldiers holding out at the end of WWII

Once Din survives this battle, he is soon hired by Colonel Ward (Sigourney Weaver, giving a more professional than committed performance), to rescue Jabba The Hutt’s son.

A deal is made, one that may prove beneficial to Din.

Co-writer/producer/director Jon Favreau, who created the hit TV series, knows his way around FX-heavy blockbusters, helming movies such as Iron Man 1 and 2, The Jungle Book and The Lion King.

Though he tries to propel the material with a fast pace and technical wizardry, this still feels like multiple episodes threaded together, pushing the familiar rather than invigorating a story in the kind of way that made audiences love Star Wars in the first place.

Buffs will love the voiceonly role of a legendary director. George Lucas and Steven Spielberg had a love for Saturday matinee serials ( Weaver’s presence is no coincidence either), and The Mandalorian And Grogu certainly wants to fall within that same category.

Sometimes sitting somewhere between Star Wars and Indiana Jones, this will satisfy most franchise audiences, but it still doesn’t come close to the original trilogy.

As far as the Disney entries go, this is also far from my favourite modern Star Wars film, Rogue One, which towers above the recent output.

I haven’t seen it, but friends also highly recommend the Andor TV series.

RATING - ***

The Backrooms: Complete shorts

■ (2021). 175 minutes. Available on YouTube.

This intriguing YouTube series, began in 2021, made by 16-year-old Kane Parsons , became a viral sensation, winning many fans and online imitators, and seen complete, successfully holds your attention for most of its almost three hour running time. Set at various times during the 80s and 90s, this is presented as found footage, showing what happens when a company called Async attempt to use state-of-the-art technology to manipulate space to create opportunities to solve overpopulation and lack of space for new housing (sound familiar?).

The experiment doesn’t go to plan, causing parallel rifts, and as scientific teams attempt to investigate the why, they soon realise that there is something amongst the vast offices and corridors.

Seemingly inspired by The Philadelphia Experiment (1984), created by John Carpenter and starring Michael Pare , this fascinating sci-fi is compelling for quite a while, incorporating video links and company infomercials with starkly sterile scenes to explore what Async are trying to do, but not fully aware of what they are doing to time, space and the people they are trying to help.

During this section, which takes up a majority of the series, it is enthralling, but unfortunately it falls into repetitive, trapped-and-chased setpieces in its final hour that diminishes its overall impact (these latter scenes are however very well executed).

One has to take into account that this was originally watched in short segments, so this late flaw may be purely unintentional.

Parsons blends various forms of technology to believable effect, and it is again hard to believe he was a teenager when this was crafted.

The talented Parsons has now directed a feature film version, set around the same time as the events in the series, and is out in cinemas on Thursday.

Reportedly helped by filmmaker Osgood Perkins (Longlegs, The Monkey, Gretel & Hansel), one hopes Parsons makes a successful transition to the big screen.

RATING - ***½ Aaron Rourke

●

● Aaron Rourke

Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court Criminal Court Listings

Wednesday, May 27

Abdullah, Mohamad Ali Abreu Soeiro De Faria, Rodrigo Adam, Jaiden Adan, Siman Aiello, Adrian Aksungur, Harun Alabudi, Narges Amboka, Peter Ascenzo, Melissa Bajramovski, Petrit Ballinger, Zachary Barsoum, John Belhadj, Abdellatif Besnek, Murat Black, Matthew Stephen Bochrinis, Nicholas Bott, Sarah Brockdorff, Jason Broderick, Harley Craig Brown, Sanerivi Bunic, Lilly Cain, Shane Cerini, Leigh Chatzikyriazis, Foney Chen, Yuanxing Chiodo, Adrian Clark, Kristine Coall, Timothy Connors, James Creedon, David Croughan, Robert Bradley Dan'ee, Lisa Marie Daoud, Daniel De Frederico, Cara Delcus, Lee Di Federico, Kara Doaud, Daniel Dole, Mark Anthony Doney, Luke Drommel, Troy Anthony Elissa, Hayden Ellie, Baho Emam, Seyed Emery, Jade Estaifo, Jason Etienne, Emily Fait, Dion Fallet, Stephen Farral, Trent Fiddes, Taylor Ashley Gardiner, Luke Owen Glasby, Laura Gondalwala, Hussain Gourgouletis, Billy Grace-Della Rosa, Melisa Greige, George Anthony Hainey, Elizabeth Hammond, Jaiden Harrison, Grant Hayes, Christopher Hedrick, Tracey Holten, Simon Hood, Stephen Huckstepp, Ben Huriwai, Reuben Hyman, Roy Ikhtear, Ryan Ilda Rigby, Catherine Ismail, El-Shayma Jennings, Mark Kataria, Anand Kazaley, Jemma Kelada, Joshua Kenneally-Murphy, Pamela Kerbatieh, Robbie Kirby, Margaret Maree Kuruppan Ruby, Riya Lai, Davy Maalouf, Jack Macdonald, Shane Edward Mahat, Salih Manoussakis, Billy Marinovic, Lana Martin, Scott Mason, Michelle Leanne Maybir, Daniel Mccawley, Corey Mcdonald, Wayne Mcmurray, Sasa Phillip Metaxotos, Michael Emmanuel Mohamad, Bassel Morgan, Jaden Moscato, John Mostafa, Omar Mozolli, Andrew Mullenger, Tanya Lee Murganti, Patrick Nguyen, Quoc Nikolovska, Natalie O'brien, Shane O'grady, Philomena Orrico, Robert Osman, Joelle Osterlund, Naomi Pearson, Marc Pereira, Luke Angelo Perry, Ashlee Marie Piazza, Neglia Piazza, Vincenzo Prior, Nicole Rahme, Michael Rai, Anshuman Reid, Jarryd David Richards, Jarrod Rivette, Clint Rolevski, Tony Sailah, Brooke Louise Saliah, Paul James Salisbury, Charles Saliu, Esat Santarpino, Pasquale Siamidis, Konstantinos Silva, Angelica Singh, Pankaj Singh, Ramandeep Smith, Gary Smith, Patrick Michael Spencer, Jaydan James Sportelli, Daniel Sprague, Rodney Tabone, Anthony Michael

Taleb, Khodor Thakur, Dannii Tindal, Trudi Tralongo, Lydia Tupola, Fetuao Varghese, Alen Vintulie, Sam Vouvakis, Konstantina Wallis, Duane Walters, Daniel Windsor, Rhiannen Yogesh, Yogesh Yu, Kang Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court Criminal Court Listings Wednesday, May 27 Abdullah, Fation Aboueid, Mouhammed Aboueid, Yahya Ahmad, Ali Ahmad, Mohammed Aryahi, Mohammed Al Rayis, Ahmed Alam, Abrar Al-Aryahi, Mohammed Albosouliem, Rida Allouche, Moustafa Anderson, Jarrod Andronaco, Nicholas Ayala, Manuel Barnabas, Christopher Barnard, Aaron Scott Bartalotta, Domenico Bektas, Yalin Benchaban, Hannah Blegg, Jaclyn Brennan, Jackson Buchmasser, Simon Cameron, Robert Gordon Carlisle, Shelley Carlyon, Hailey Louise Caruana, Robert Cetinkaya, Akif Chowdhury, Nuruzzaman Cox, Blake Daghagheleh, Amin Dalton, Lewis Reuben D'avoine, Joshua Niklas Dimov, Nancy Dislekis, Jessica D'orazio, Daniel Eissa, Jihad Ezzat, Ziyad Fadih, Rudah Fatho, Andy Fry, Christopher Garg, Manik Georgiev, Johnny Giacominato, Anthony Gioia, Matthew Gomez, Kevin Gonzalez Bello, Juan Esteban Gurung, Jiwan Hano, Yousif Hardstaff, Leigh Harris, Brendan Hassen, Ranya Shue He, Benny Hearty, Michael Hefzabad, Mehdi Hurdal, Osman Ibrahim, Dolovan Joha, Alias Kaladjic, James Kanoyangua, Diago Kelly, Emily Khalid, Adam Khasrawy, Mariam Khodar, Ebrahem Lustica, Vedrona Marchant, Dean Mark, Leigh Markis, Sandi Masoud, Mina Mcconnaughie, Benjamin Mead, Alec Milanovic, Nikola Nally, Rebecca Nasra, Rojer Nasser, Mouhammad Nelson, Andrew Noury, Ashrf O'callaghan, Angus O'neil, Shaun Ponsonby, Daniel Portelli, Ricky Preston, Simone Quainoo, Isaac Quintigliano, Teodoro Reed, Luke Roach, Jake Rodero, Kiara Rossino, Sofia Rowe, Justin Safar, Martin Salma, Fahd Sami, Vinay Vishal Samoa, Ninous Samuels, Toby Scicluna, Dylan Shabo, Alen Shamoon, Milad Shead, Justin Shire, Preston Singh, Balwinder Singh, Jagmeet Slaveski, Sidor Sobnauth, Rohan Rahul Soper, Rohan Spooner, Jason Stacey, Thomas Stella, Luke Stubberfield, James Suvari, Yilmaz Taito, Wilson Tanic, Sasha Thompson, Wivemu Tokhi, Haroon Tufail, Aneeta Vicario, Charlie Windsor, Sean Yilmaz, Muharrem Yokhanna, Ayad Zoora, Paul

Evaded Police

■ A man has been arrested after allegedly evading police in a suspected stolen vehicle through Melbourne’s northeastern suburbs on Thursday morning.

The Air Wing spotted a suspicious vehicle on Dougharty Rd in West Heidelberg about 2.45am.

Officers attempted to intercept the vehicle on Waiora Rd in Heidelberg Heights before it took off at a fast rate of speed.

Another intercept was attempted on Banksia St in Heidelberg with the vehicle once again allegedly evading police.

The Subaru Outback , which is believed to be stolen, was followed through Bulleen, Templestowe Lower, Montmorency, Watsonia and Yallambie

Stop sticks were successfully deployed, puncturing all four tyres, before the vehicle came to a stop with the driver surrendering at the intersection of Grace and High Sts in Watsonia

A 29-year-old Wallan man is expected to be interviewed.

Elder abuse issues

■ World Elder Abuse Awareness Day will be held on June 15.

Elder abuse is any act that harms an older person and is carried out by someone they know and trust, like a family member, friend or carer. It takes many forms, including emotional, financial or physical abuse, as well as neglect.

Paul Were , managing lawyer of the elder abuse response program at Eastern Community Legal Centre , says early support is critical.

“Seeking help as early as possible can make a significant difference, as these situations often escalate quickly and early intervention can prevent them becoming more serious,” says Mr Were.

He says around 60 per cent of people supported through ECLC’s elder abuse response program are experiencing abuse by their adult children. Many cases arise from shared living arrangements.

Knox volunteers

■ Knox Council has recognised inspiring volunteers and community organisations in the Knox Community Awards.

Awards were presented for Community Organisation of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Volunteer of the Year – Special Honours, and Recognition of Years of Service.

Knox Mayor, Cr Paige Kennett, said these awards celebrate the people who quietly strengthen our community.

The theme of this year’s week was ’Your Year to Volunteer’.

Volunteer of the Year – Richard Faragher

Community Organisation of the Year

– Foothills Community Care

Volunteer of the Year — Special Honours: Eddie Atacador, Rob Bloye, Brooke Junginger, Christine Pow, Kristian Schouten

Carols planning

■ Manningham Council is inviting talented local performers, food vendors, businesses and community groups to be part of the 2026 Manningham Carols by Candlelight.

This year’s event will be held on Friday, December 11, at Ruffey Lake Park Expressions of interest to get involved are now open until 11.59pm on Sunday, June 21.

Last year’s Carols had record crowds of more than 13,000 people. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for local businesses. For more information about sponsorship, contact events@manningham.vic.gov.au

Land acquisition

■ Whitehorse City Council is intending to purchas properties known as 53 and 55 Station Street, Burwood

The propertoes have been purchased by Council for open space purposes. The Council resolved to undertake an “inform” level of community engagement for the purchase of the Land, in accordance with its obligations under the Act

Across Across

1. Pony competition

6. Meddler

11. Large NZ city

15. Drinking glasses

20. Moose

21. Drizzles

22. Married title

23. Nudism

24. Armed conflict within nation (5,3)

25. Family favouritism

27. Segregated

28. Roman robe

29. Hungry

31. Slightly open

32. Skin eruptions

36. Staining

37. Room

38. Painter of The Queen's latest portrait, Rolf ...

41. Length unit

44. Hair dye

45. Touchy

48. Metal extraction plant

49. Cupboard

52. Banked (on)

56. Gets

57. Form of prayer

58. Futile

61. More affluent

62. Bring honour to

63. Gladden, ... up

64. Japan's capital

65. Shillyshallies

66. Greed

67. Withdraws from position (5,4)

71. Fertile desert spot

73. TV personality, ... McGuire

75. Aid financially

80. Pistols

82. Intervening time

83. Jog

85. Definitions

86. Old Spanish money unit

88. Split in church

90. Slays (5,3)

91. Biting insects

93. Wise biblical king

94. Tossing

95. Fragile & airy

96. Suit-makers

97. Jot

99. Charlotte Bronte novel, Jane ...

100. Concludes

104. Of kidneys

105. Taco sauce

106. Sing monotonously

107. Revolved

111. Deserve

113. Fah, soh, ...

114. Inflatable vest, ... west

115. Serving platters

117. Irrational fear

118. Kitchen strainer

121. Saturate (with colour)

122. The Hunchback Of ... Dame

125. Harpoon hunter

126. Formerly Persia

127. Garden of Creation

129. In place, in ...

131. Actress, ... Thompson

132. Stellar

135. Kuwaiti ruler

136. Eternal

139. Siamese

140. Up-to-date

144. Physicist, ... Newton

145. Excel

146. Castle water barriers

147. Elaborately

148. Cattle-farmers

149. Mad (dog)

150. Tied (shoes)

152. Surprise victory

154. Labelled

157. Chinese gooseberry, ... fruit

158. Of the side

162. Grieg opera, Peer ...

163. SOS

166. Wig material

167. Speaks

169. Kind

171. Door frame post

172. Resistant to disease

173. Start (of ailment)

175. Primp

176. Encouraged

179. Tutsi country

180. Ranted

182. Hawaiian garland

183. Belonging to us

184. Spindly

186. Took in (child)

189. Last Greek letter

190. Wallabies or Springboks sport

191. Synagogue scholar

192. Stimulating

196. Disable

197. Canadian province, ... Scotia

198. Kenya's capital

199. Exhilarating

201. Caught

202. Ridicule

203. Departing

204. Fibre-spinning rods

205. Writer, ... Hemingway

208. Journalist's credit (2-4)

210. Cheap ship fare

211. Fertiliser ingredient

212. Redder

213. Bobs head

215. Firebugs

219. Signalling flame

221. Cruel men

223. Searches out scandal

227. From Brussels

228. Mummifies (corpse)

230. Judge's hammer

231. Democratic Republic of Congo

232. Threatened

233. Slip by 234. Gist

238. Tennis ace, ... Edberg

239. Indianapolis state

240. Splatter

243. Arrival

246. Annulled

247. Dressy

250. Woodwind instruments

251. Fools

253. Paltry

256. Helicopter's landing place

257. More hefty

258. Grills

262. Labyrinth

263. Reverie

266. Honey liquor

268. Peacemaker

269. Central Asian republic

270. Lovely women

271. Miniature toy, ... car

272. Banned pesticide (1,1,1)

273. Downy duck

274. Naval exercises

275. Makes stable

276. Perceived wrongly

277. Aerobics outfits

278. Abbreviates

Down Down

1. Doomed person

2. Legends

3. Equine

4. Cosy home

5. Nearly

7. A few

8. Persecutes

9. Checkers game

10. Thread

11. Henry VIII's ... Boleyn

12. Second-hand vehicles (4,4)

13. Smart aleck (4-3)

14. Friendly

15. Tests

16. Former Soviet region (1,1,1,1)

17. Lightweight timber

18. Go in

19. Mixer drinks

24. Appeared

26. Trading centre

30. Last-minute

33. Pungent cleaning fluid

34. Small hill

35. Sniffed

38. Cross-breeds

39. Made contact with

40. Takes no notice of

42. Canadian lake

43. Bringing up

46. Stud (with jewels)

47. Conformed, ... the line

49. Hurricane

50. Follows orders

51. Europe/Asia

53. Regards highly

54. Riled

55. Aussie sheep herders

59. Very demanding

60. Settle overseas

67. Bewildered

68. Moved on hands & knees

69. Of earthquakes

70. Run (event)

72. Aplomb

74. Travelling worker

76. Gusty

77. Leave impression

78. Smooth over (4,3)

79. Gushed

81. Brash newcomers

84. Egg dish

87. Dried with cloth

89. Moon shape

91. Grinding (teeth)

92. British royal court, ... Palace (2,5'1)

98. Worldwide

101. Group value system

102. Shade of brown

103. Sends via Internet

108. Alleged assassin, Lee Harvey ...

109. Stop! (nautical)

110. Odds or ...

112. Emerging again from sleep

116. Protective shielding (6,5)

119. Act of dunking

120. Say

123. Canoe with attached float

124. Set out differently

128. Enthusiastically

130. From Tel Aviv

132. Allow inside

133. Banjo sound

134. Gangway

137. Cleopatra's land

138. Famous Swiss mountain

141. Main artery

142. Flowed away

143. Yesterday, ..., tomorrow

151. Cling (to)

153. Early fetus

155. Directed

156. Surly person

159. Hoping (to)

160. Vitality

161. Irritating

164. 365-day periods

165. Cosmetics boss, Elizabeth ...

168. Legendary Atlantic continent

170. Money

173. Car distance clock

174. Mideast waterway (4,5)

177. Raincoat fabric

178. Gradually diminished

181. Devotees

185. Thrilling

186. Loss of memory

187. Beginnings

188. Trampled

193. Obscure

194. Sports injury remedy (3,4)

195. Hot springs

200. Venetian boats

201. Conceive of

206. Havens

207. Increases threefold

208. Sun-tanned

209. Most inquisitive

211. Coup organiser

214. Cigarette users

216. Affair of the heart

217. Giving green light to

218. Huge

220. Blacksmith's block

222. German wine, ... Riesling

224. Most avid

225. US cotton state

226. Giant Himalayan peak

229. Criticise harshly

232. Lion's neck hair

235. Poorer quality

236. Wear down

237. Soft goat wool

241. Fence planks

242. Authorise

244. Bridge over gorge

245. Louder

248. Trophies

249. Those ones

251. Weaponry

252. Bogs

253. Office circulars

254. Grand Slam winner, ... Agassi

255. Writer, ... Dahl

259. Happen

260. Prized fur

261. Genders

262. Method

264. Sudden attack

265. Son of Adam & Eve

267. Sprint

Pieces of Me

■ After five years in the making, local singer songwriter Magdalia has released her debut EP Pieces of Me. The awardwinning soulful performers powerful vocals and storytelling have drawn comparisons to Florence and The Machine, Taylor Swift , and Lorde. As an autistic artist she brings a distinctive perspective to her music, blending her blunt humour and relatability with a profound love for storytelling, her media release says. Pieces of Me is available on streaming platforms.

Motown Spectacular

■ The Big Chillout Motown spectacular featuring the Voice winner Judah Kelly along with Asabi Goodman will rock the Memo Music Hall, St Kilda on Thursday, June 11. Get ready to relive your youth in The Big Chillout , a joyous, soul-stirring celebration featuring the songs and stories of the legendary Big Chill movie soundtrack and the Motown revival it sparked. Tickets at Trybooking.com

Dadstock 26

■ From Shed to Shred, Garage to Glory, Dadstock returns and is now taking submissions from bands (which are mostly made up of Dads ) who wish to compete in the local heats, with winners progressing through to the Grand Final later in the year. The goal is to raise awareness and funds for Men's Mental Health (Movember Australia) . The band’s technical ability is only part of the scoring criteria. Additional points for song choice, crowd interaction, costumes and more are also on the check list. andy@thegoodmachine.com.au

SIMON AND RACHAEL JOIN FORCES AT NIDA

■ For its 2026 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.

Phillips opens the Winter Season with A Midsummer Night's Dream on the Parade Theatre stage. Maza closes the Spring Season with Michael Gow's Away, Australia's most produced play in its 40th anniversary year, brought to the stage for the first time through a First Nations lens.

The six remaining works include the first Australian production of a play described by The Times as “the play of the decade”, an operatic co-production with the Sydney Conservatorium of Music , a queer-inclusive musical, a revenge drama widely hailed as one of the most important Australian plays of the decade, the Australian premiere of a political thriller, and a brand new ghost story.

"Eight productions, one question: what do we owe each other?

“It’s asked in a courtroom, a haunted house, a hospital, a beach at summer's end, a revolution broadcast live, and a forest where lovers lose themselves in the dark.

“It’s asked with rage, with laughter, and with music. And it’s asked it in the company of some of the finest theatre makers in the country, working alongside the next generation of Australian storytellers," said David Berthold, Artistic Director in Residence, NIDA.

Winter Season: June 4-13

Winter Season launches with A Midsummer Night’s Dream, directed by the acclaimed Simon Phillips, who brings his hallmark clarity and velocity to Shakespeare’s wildest comedy on the bi stage.

Associate Artistic Director of Griffin Theatre Company, Anthea Williams , directs Possessions, a newly commissioned play by the award-winning Keziah Warner in which grief, guilt and something beneath the floorboards refuse to stay buried.

Green Room Award winner Miranda Middleton directs, and Zara Stanton leads the music for In Pieces, Joey Contreras’s new, queer-inclusive musical exploring friendships, families and former lov Contributed

ETHEREAL TAILORS

E E I IOTA A E A G J S R EYRE N U E DEDUCES RENAL SALSA CHANT ROTATED T M MERIT C LAH O MAE N TRAYS V V PHOBIA E SIEVE IMBUE NOTRE R WHALER O E IRAN M EDEN A SITU E EMMA S N ASTRAL W EMIR AGELESS THAI O LATEST D W ISAAC E B G G I R R R OUTDO B O MOATS K ORNATELY GRAZIERS

CAULFIELD RACES PAST AND PRESENT

■ The major metropolitan race meeting this Saturday (May 30) is at Caulfield, also referred to as the Heath , due to the type of land on which the racetrack was first established.

Melbourne Racing Club (formerly Victoria Amateur Turf Club) commenced racing on the site 150 years ago.

Naturally there are countless stories which can be told associated with horse racing in that time.

Here are just a couple: Cup Day Fire

In the early hours on the morning of the 1922 Caulfield Cup , the members stand and judges box were burnt to the ground by a deliberately lit fire.

Despite a reward being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrator, the case was never solved.

However, it was widely reported at the time that suspicion centred around an incident which occurred at the previous Caulfield race meeting held on the Wednesday of that week.

Apparently, career criminal and gang leader Leslie ‘Squizzy’ Taylor didn’t take kindly to being ordered off the course and this was suggested as a motive.

The crimes committed by and at the direction of Taylor , born Joseph Theodore Leslie Taylor, at Brighton in 1888, are well documented.

What isn’t so well known is that when he was younger, ‘Squizzy’ was a jockey.

Records indicate J. Taylor rode 37 winners, mostly at the pony meetings held on privately owned racetracks around Melbourne .

Suburbs such as Richmond and Fitzroy hosted pony racing until 1931, while Ascot stopped racing part way through the Second World War in 1942 and was unable to reopen when proprietary racing was formally outlawed in 1945.

Taylor’s time as a jockey was cut short when he was permanently stood down, due to alleged irregularities in the performances of a horse he rode at Ascot

Super Challenge

■ The Caulfield Cup carnival continues to be held over three race days in October each year.

Commencing on a Saturday, the carnival culminates on Caulfield Cup day the following Saturday, with a Wednesday race meeting in between.

In 1992, the Thousand Guineas was supposed to be the highlight of the second day. However, a very wet spring to that point, which would continue through the rest of the month and into November, led to a unique event which drew a larger than normal crowd.

The original form of horse racing is known to have been a match-race to determine the fastest of two horses.

On this occasion, two of Australia’s greatest racehorses at the time, were desperately in need of a hit-out under race pressure to be ready to contest the W. S. Cox Plate at Moonee Valley in 10 days. So, the concept of a match-race returned and was promoted as the Super Challenge Better Loosen Up, being the older of the

two horses, had won twice as many Group 1 races (eight) as his opponent.

Yet, the former Cox Plate and Japan Cup winner appeared to be nearing the end of his racing career.

Let’s Elope , the Caulfield Cup and Melbourne Cup winner from the previous year, had only raced once since March.

Run over around 2000 metres, tactics were always going to be important, and Better Loosen Up took up the running early.

It wasn’t until the 600 metres mark that Let’s Elope moved up on the outside to join Better Loosen Up, and as they turned for home, the mighty mare put her head in front.

Extending that margin to half a length half-way up the straight, despite the geld-

ing showing plenty of fight, Let’s Elope was able to get the better of him on the line to win by just over one length.

As a postscript to this exciting clash, both horses would go on to figure prominently in a chaotic Cox Plate Super Impose got the money in a busy finish, however fifth-placed Better Loosen Up may have won had it not been for interference caused by the runner-up Let’s Elope . A protest by the rider of Better Loosen Up against Let’s Elope was upheld by stewards, relegating Let’s Elope back to fifth place behind Better Loosen Up now officially fourth.

Bel Espirt Stakes

■ A sprinting contest over 1100 metres named in honour of the sire of Black Caviar is the feature event at Caulfield on Saturday (May 30).

As a handicap, the Bel Esprit Stakes field would include the following horses among the top picks if given their chance:

Tycoon Star

Quality three-year-old colt who’s past three starts have been at Morphettville. He was second in a photo finish in the Listed Redelva Stakes, then defeated Extragalactic in the Group 2 Tobin Bronze and most recently was fifth in a blanket finish in the Group 1 Goodwood.

Bustling

Talented former West Australian now based locally. Resumed from a lengthy injury-enforced layoff with a solid third at Caulfield over 1000 metres. Would have derived enormous benefit from that.

Horses To Follow

■ Best Terms, Concord Connie, Our Brave Boy

Racing Calendar

■ Wednesday, May 27: Caulfield Heath

■ Thursday, May 28: Moe

■ Friday, May 29: Bendigo, Pakenham

■ Saturday, May 30: Caulfield, Werribee

■ Sunday, May 31: Sandown Lakeside

■ Monday, June 1: Kilmore

■ Tuesday, June 2: Echuca

● ● Half Yours. Racing Photos.

ENTERTAINING EVENTS AT TERANG

■ Western District Racing at Terang commenced the week on Monday May 18 with a most entertaining eight race day meeting.

It was a complete blow out for punters in the second leg of the quaddie - the 1680 metre Basil J. Brock Memorial Pace taken out by Horsham owner/trainer Rod Carberry’s 7Y0 Pet Rock-Doutzen gelding Vinny Rock at Supertab odds of $34.00 fixed, but $37.40 parimitual.

Driven by Ararat’s Michael Bellman Vinny Rock settled three back along the markers from gate two as polemarker Monsieur Flamel ($81) and ($103.70 fixed) led with Huxham Chubb ($37.40) and ($41 fixed) trailing from inside the second line. When Monsieur Flamel (Reagan Clarke) kicked clear on the final bend appearing to have the race in his keeping, Vinny Rock hard driven and using the sprint lane bloused him by a head in a tricky finish, with Huxhum Chubb third 3.7 metres back after also utilizing the sprint lane. The mile rate 1-56.7.

To the dismay of punters raging hot favourite Some Magic ($1.50) galloped away wildly from gate five and was never a chance.

It’s interesting to note the multiple dividends: Quinella $736 in a pool of $1956, Trifecta $5954 – pool $9116 and First Four $15,563 – pool $10,041 after percentages were taken out.

■ Cudgee owner/breeders John and Mary Meade provided Classic Connection-Glory Salute gelding Glory Connect on debut to land the Laurie McKenna Memorial Maiden Trotters Mobile over 2180 metres. Driven by John, Glory Connect trotted to perfection trailing Vixan (Mick Bellman) which led from gate two. Using the sprint lane, Glory Connect stuck his neck out showing a great desire to win on turning to greet the judge by 4.1 metres from I Am Skye Chiola (gate five – four pegs – one/ two home turn) after a bad beginning which flashed home, with Island Rubee (gate three – three pegs) a head away third after being held up approaching the wire. The mile rate 2-00.2.

■ Much travelled now Terang based trainer Michelle Phillips combined with Glen Craven to capture the 1680 metre Denis Heffernan Memorial Pace for two year olds with Nonnas Dream, a daughter of Raging Bull and Nonnas Coraggio bred and raced by Paddy Lee who was making her fourth race appearance.

Given a cosy trip from the pole trailing Remarli (gate six) which led easing outside Remarli on turning, Nonnas Dream finished best to record a 1.7 metre margin over Remarli and a death-seating Letitrideluv which battled on gamely for third 1.4 metres back after racing exposed from a solo second line draw. The mile rate 1-58.9.

■ The Kevin O’Bryan Memorial Maiden 3Y0 Pace over 1680 metres went the way of Portland breeder/owner/trainer Donna Bourke’s Fear The Dragon- Hamilton’s Jackie Barker, That’s Kevin after being trapped wide from gate six as polemarker High Tempo led was sent forward to race exposed and dictate the terms of the race. Showing plenty of heart on turning, That’s Kevin kept on giving to score by 2.8 metres over the leader, with Bobbys Room third 7 metres away after following the pacemaker.

Most consistent 6Y0 Sweet Lou-Sunday Rose mare Quick Decision chalked up her fourth victory in 82 outings (22 placings) by charging home from mid-field to land the 1680 metre Norm McSween Memorial Pace Final in a 1-58.8 mile rate.

Driven byReagan Clarke, Quick Decision trained at Swan Marsh (Otway Shire) by Paul Castle for the Castle family, Quick Decision after racing roughly at the start from gate four settled mid-field as Livermere (gate two) led before being crossed by Ittakesluv (gate six) with a rush racing for the bell.

Despite making the final bend right off the track, Quick Decision dashed away to greet the judge by 4.3 metres in advance of Livermere along the sprint lane and Doctor Go Joh (gate three) which raced wide from mid-field in the final circuit.

ing with many local trainers in the winners list.

■ Kialla trainer Isabell Walsh’s lightly raced 3Y0 Lochinvar Art-Somedaylady colt Dembe driven by Leigh Sutton chalked up his second success in eight outings when taking The Carrington Pace over 2190 metres in a 1-58.8 mile rate.

Going forward from gate four to cross Uncle Trev (gate three), Dembre bowled along at his leisure, accounting for Hellofatime (one/two) from a solo second line draw, with polemarker Im Dustee (four pegs) gaining a late split in the straight for third 13.9 metres away.

Kialla duo Luke Tabone (trainer) and Bec Bartley (owner/driver) landed the 2190 metre SHRC Wager Wednesday Pace with first starter Shes From Texas, a 4Y0 daughter of Jilliby Kung Fu and Dianne Valerie.

Enjoying a cosy trip three pegs from the pole after Rock Poster (gate two) was restrained to allow Eebeebee (gate four) to stride clear, Shes From Texas using the sprint lane ran home stylishly to register a 3.9 metre victory over Eebeebee and Rock Poster who was 2.5 metres away third. The mile rate 2-00.1.

■ Another Kialla winner was 5Y0 Tinted Cloud-Longtan Jacaranda gelding Longtan Viper for Paul Tonkin in the 2190 metre Hygain Pace.

Driven by Ellen Tormey, Longtan Viper backed for bundles to run a $1.45 favourite settled four back in the moving line from gate six as speedy local Hez Harrywho led from gate two.

Moving into the race approaching the final bend, Longtan Viper finished best to prevail by 2.2 metres from Sir Sonny Maguire (three pegs from a solo second line draw) along the sprint lane. Hez Harrywho held third a neck back. The mile rate 1-59.4.

■ Doreen trainer John Yeomans snared the Saddleworld Maiden Pace over 2190 metres with 4Y0 Rock N Roll Heaven-Our Star Dust mare Helenshope bred by Helen Head in the Goulburn Valley.

Raced by John and wife Christine, Helenshope was given a sweet passage from gate two by Tasmyn Potter trailing Diamondontherocks which charged away from outside the front line to lead easily. Easing outside the leader on the final bend and racing clear, Helenshope was too strong at the finish for Just Like Nugget which had followed her throughout going down by 6.6 metres. Imagunnarestngo (four pegs) was third 12.8 metres back. The mile rate 2-01.

■ Henty trainer Brooke McPherson has been racing on a regular basis at Shepparton in recent weeks and was successful with 4Y0 Father Patrick-Zhenya gelding Aldebaran Zane in the VHRC Maiden Trotters Mobile over 1690 metres. Given a lovely trip from a solo second line draw by Ryan Sanderson following the pacemaker Istanbul (gate six) after Lookat Spunky Trot galloped wildly as the start was effected, Aldebaran Zane was eased off the back of Istanbul on the home turn and finished best to defeat Istanbul by 6.8 metres, with first starter Galhalla after galloping early suggesting a win is not too far away when third 8 metres back. The mile rate 2-07.3.

taken out by Cardigan trainer Sam Barker’s smart 8Y0 Alta Christiano-Bella Enobrac gelding Ultimate Vinnie. Driven by Allan McDonough, Ultimate Vinne exploded away from outside the front line to cross Medina (gate two) shortly after the start running his rivals ragged to score by 9.6 metres in advance of Medina, with Western Sonador (three wide last lap from the rear) unable to sustain the effort third 5.3 metres away.

The mile rate a slick 1-55. Bred by Axedale’s Mick Carbone, Ultimate Vinnie recorded his 15th success in 94 outings which include 25 placings and almost $250,000 in stakes.

■ Most reliable 10Y0 Great Success-Majestic Eclipse gelding Allwatfunjingles bred by Bendigo’s Teddy Carmody, raced and trained by Melton’s Steve Alexandrou finally cracked it for a deserved victory by taking the 2150 metre J & A Mazzetti Painting Trotters Mobile at start number 118.

Driven by Chris Alford, Allwatfunjingles was restrained from gate four to settle five back in the moving line as Little Tedey (gate five) led before handing over to old timer Christmas Babe (gate six).

Set alight three wide racing for the bell to park outside the leader for the last lap, Allwatfunjingles surged to the front approaching the final bend and despite a strong challenge halfway up the running by Alabama May (gate four second line – three wide last lap) held on to gain the day by a head in a 2-04.9 mile rate.

Little Tedey held third 7.7 metres back. It was the winner’s 10th success including 34 placings with his last victory being at Maryborough in February.

■ Myrniong trainer Jess Tubbs produced Bold Eagle-Dance Craze filly Queen Of Sees to register a first up since November last year victory in the 1st Heat of The Douglas Deck Graduation Series 3Y0 Trotters Mobile over 1650 metres.

Bred by Yabby Dam Farms Pty Ltd and raced by them in partnership with Jess and mother Cate, Queen Of Sees one of three winners on the night for James Herbertson which had been trialing well, was restrained from gate two settling one/one as polemarker Jilliby Radiance led.

Going forward three wide in the last lap to join the leader on the home turn, Queen Of Sees opened up in the straight to score impressively by 7 metres over Jilliby Radiance and Island Frankie which had followed the pacemaker from inside the second line to finish third 13.2 metres away. The mile rate 1-59.4.

■ Reliable nine year old Bad Boy TruscottSpoil Me Guv gelding Kalarney Prince trained at Wahring by part-owner Paul Weidenbach and driven by Abby Sanderson scored his first victory since September 2024 when successful in the Petersen Westbrook Cameron Lawyers Bendigo Trotters Mobile over 2150 metres, leading throughout from gate two, accounting for Miss Avenger (gate four) which trailed, with Money Talks (inside second line – three pegs) third after moving to race exposed at the bell. The margins 4.5 by 3.2 metres in a mile rate of 204.7.

■ Myrniong based trainer Craig Demmler snared the quinella in the Spring H20 Graduation Series 3Y0 Pace over 1650 metres when Bettors Wish-Chrisanna gelding defeated Secret Service Agent in a 155.7 mile rate, both horses raced by Riverina based Mick Boots under the banner of Boots Properties Racing Pty. Ltd.

Taken back by ‘Herbie’ to settle five pegs from gate six after Soho Amaryllis led out from the pole before being crossed by the almost unbackable favourite Midnight Moth ($1.22 from gate four). Making ground to be one/one in the last lap and three wide on the final bend, Rocknroll Wish joined the leader halfway up the running which went off stride galloping wildly gifting the race to him.

Secret Service Agent came from near last on turning along the sprint lane for second7.2 metres back, with Soho Amaryllis third 2 metres back.

Kilmore

This Week

■ Wednesday – Bendigo, Thursday –Ballarat, Friday – Mildura/Melton, Saturday – Melton, Sunday – Maryborough (Cup), Monday – Stawell, Tuesday –Shepparton.

ous in the Coulter Legal 4Y0 & Older 2-3 wins Trotters Mobile over 2180 metres last Thursday May 21.

Driven by James Herbertson, Kennys Son began very fast from gate four to lead and was untroubled to score by 3.9 metres in advance of Ahundredplus (three pegs from inside the second line) which eased away from the inside approaching the final bend, with Rymes (one/one from the extreme draw) third after shifting up the track on turning third 6.5 metres back. The mile rate 2-03.1.

■ The 2180 metre Pacing For Pink 3Y0 Maiden Pace saw Harkness trainer Joe Pace and son Adrian combine with For A Reason-Princess Fly High gelding Hiltons Pride.

Enjoying a cosy passage from gate four following the poleline leader Jansen, Hiltons Pride after extricating into the clear on turning ran home stylishly to gain the day by 8.9 metres from Heavenly Flyer (four pegs from gate two on the second line) and Jansen which hels third 1-9 metres away. The mile rate 2-02.2.

■ Astute Bannockburn trainer Geoff Webster provided 4Y0 Father Patrick-Aldebaran Aliza entire Aldebaran Abel to land the cash in the 1690 metre JC Windows Trotters Mobile. Driven by James Herbertson, Aldebaran Abel was restrained from gate six as polemarker Piesridingshotgun showed his usual speed to lead from the pole, Aldebaran Abel after settling four back in the moving line was sent forward three wide in the last lap to sustain a long run and score by a metre from Buslin Brodie (gate three – three pegs) in a 2-01.7 mile rate. Quake Proof after trailing the pacemaker from inside the second line ran his usual honest race for third 3.4 metres back.

■ The first of two Concession Drivers races was the MC Labour Pace over 1690 metres with victory going to 4Y0 Jilliby Kung FuJovial Jumo Lombo mare Elizajane in 159.9.

Trained at Kialla by Tasmyn Potter and driven by Goulburn Valley based Grace Bilney who has a great record in these races, Elizajane led throughout from gate three to register a 4.5 metre margin over Colorado Girl (Hannah Parish – gate five) which followed the winner all the way. Polemarker My Kgari trained and driven by 63 year old Warren Greene was third 3 metres back. The mile rate 1-59.5.

■ The second - the ‘Picklebet Get Your Pickle On’ Pace over 2180 metres saw Derrinal trainer Glenn Bull successful with 9Y0 Western Terror-Paris Highlights mare Favouritehighlight who returned a mile rate of 2-05.9. Settling three back in the moving line for Hannah Parish, Favouritehighlight despite racing wide for the last lap raced to the front in the closing stages to prevail by 1.3 metres over Corey Bell’s Northern Terror (Riley Pacethree pegs from gate six) which flashed late after extricating wide in the straight. Miss Hermes with Grace Bilney in the sulky was third 2.6 metres away after racing exposed from gate four.

■ Sutton Grange trainer Ross Graham has a great record at Kilmore and five year old Tell All-Poets Glory gelding Whats The Tea gave ‘Herbie’ another victory on the night when saluting the judge in the C&M Build Group Trotters Mobile over 2180 metres.

Shepparton

■ The regular Shepparton was Tuesday with an even program of interesting rac-

■ Bendigo on Wednesday saw some good quality races including the Great Ocean

■ It was Kilmore on Thursday and Bolinda trainer Brent Lilley is always around the mark at Kilmore harness meetings and 4Y0 Majestic Son-Princess Kenny was victori-

Taken back from gate five to settle three back in the moving line as Massive Central led from gate four, Whats The Tea was sent forward mid-race to park outside the leader and outstay his rivals, recording a 2-00.7 mile rate to defeat Bettor Man (one/ one mid-race from the extreme draw) and Pro Hibition (four pegs from inside the second line) after using the sprint lane. The margins 4.7 by 2.8 metres. Len Baker

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CRAIGIEBURN. Available now. Clean, quiet furnished ensuite-room available in old Craigieburn. Suitable for a working professional or student. Includes private bathroom, shared kitchen/ laundry, WiFi, safe onstreet parking, close to transport and shops. Nonsmoker, no pets preferred. GC. $340. 0419 681 292.U-Y

BED. Hospital-type. Fully adjustable, electric with side rails and pneumatic alternating pressure mattress and controller. EC. $2400. Watsonia. 0490 130 660.U-Y

BIKE. Lady’s.. Colour: purple. make: Huffy Friction. Plus: basket, helmet and ump. VGC. $100. Pakenham. 5940 5018. U-Y

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REGISTRATION

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CARAVAN.

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DEATHS

DRISCOLL

Brian John “Dricca”

28/09/194214/05/2026

Passed away peacefully with his devoted Wife by his side at Respect, Wattleglen in Sale.

Beloved and loving Husband to Carole.

Cherished Dad to Shane, Meg & her husband Mark, Bron & her partner John.

Adored Pa to Jess, Brody, Lauchlan, Fletcher, Jordan and Molly.

Special “Big Pa” to his eight Great Grandchildren.

An amazing friend to many.

A thoughtful and caring gentleman to the end.

Deeply loved.

Forever Remembered

The Family would like to extend their deep gratitude to the staff at Respect, Wattleglen whose care and support has been marvellous.

DRISCOLL

The Funeral Service for Mr Brian John Driscoll was held at Delbridge Funeral Chapel, Marley Street Sale followed by a Private Cremation. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Epilepsy Foundation. Please see our website for livestream link.

BARRY & ANNETTE LETT

67 MACARTHUR STREET

SALE 5143 1232

MEMBER FUNERALS

AUSTRALIA www.lettsfunerals.com.au

CLAIM: SOLE FIDUCIARY/DIRECTOR/EXECUTOR TRUSTEE FOR THEIR ESTATES

Living Souls: Nick Papas, Man; Rena Papas, Woman; William Papas, Man; Mia Papas, Woman (any name derivative). NOTICE: To any entity, body, man or woman that believe they have any authority or interest in said Estates may view/rebut documents at Public Notices: www.thecommonwealthofaustralia.com.au

Notice of Precipe

For the record Marta Popa© nee Servanis, on Victoria, is permanently domiciled on the Land and Soil of Terra Australis. I am not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and the paramount security interest holder of all estates, property, assets and collateral, both registered and unregistered, and all associated copyright protected trade names. My lawful Conveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis was recorded with Public Recording Number RPP44 63900 05100 38541 62601 on Proclamation Date10th September 2025, respectively. All usufruct subjugation ties have been severed with the occupying corporate government of Australia. The corporate Australian kakistocracy and its affiliates are instructed to immediately cease and desist misaddressing Marta Popa© nee Servanis in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin, GLOSSA and to cease and desist infringing upon my estate, property, assets, collateral and copyright protected trade names.

FORM 7

Regulation 16

Land Acquisition and Compensation Act 1986

Notice of Acquisition

Compulsory Acquisition of Interest in Land

The Minister administering the Education and Training Reform Act 2006 (Early Childhood Education and Care) (Authority) declares that by this notice she acquires the following interests in the whole of the land described as Lot 1 on Title Plan 158154B contained in Certificate of Title Volume 09381 Folio 442:

Interests Acquired:

•that of Peter Neil Sorensen and Anne Patricia Sorensen (registered proprietor);

•and all other interests.

The acquisition is made pursuant to section 5.2.3 of the Education and Training Reform Act 2006 for the purpose of early childhood education and care.

A notice of intention to acquire the interest in the land was not required under section 7(1) of the Land Acquisition and Compensation Act 1986 because the land has been publicly advertised for sale and the Authority believes in good faith that the interest is still available for sale.

Published with the authority of the Authority. For and on behalf of the Authority

Signed:NICOLE POPE

Name:Nicole Pope Director, Property Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA)

Date7 May 2026

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE A MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION ON THE EXISTING MONOPOLE AT TULLAMARINE VIC 3043

1. Telstra is proposing to upgrade a mobile phone base station on the existing 30m Monopole at, 84 Springbank St, TULLAMARINE VIC 3043.

2. In summary, this upgrade will comprise of:

• Removal of (12) existing antennas and ancillary equipment

• Installation of (9) 4G/5G Panel Antennas on the existing headframe

• Replacing and installing ancillary equipment

• Internal works within the existing shelter

• There will be no increase in height to the facility

3. We invite you to provide your feedback or request further information by contacting us at: Emily Wardlaw on behalf of Telstra, 0422 685 472, PO BOX 586, Elsternwick VIC 3185, consultation@acquirecomm.com.au. We will accept submissions until 5pm on Friday 12th of June 2026.

4. For more information, please visit www.rfnsa.com.au/3043019 Telstra Limited A.C.N 086 174 781 Acquirecomm Pty Ltd A.C.N: 603 876 240

HEALTH RECORDS NOTICE — TRANSFER OF PRACTICE (STRACHAN EYECARE PLUS BLACKBURN)

Strachan Eyecare Plus, located at Shop 22, Blackburn Square, 66 Springfield Road, Blackburn, advises that this practice is being transferred to Jacky Wu, long-time employee of Greg and Sue Strachan, and that Greg and Sue will be retiring and no longer be providing health services. The business will continue under the same name.

Your health records

In accordance with Health Privacy Principle 10.2 of the Health Records Act 2001 (Vic), patients who have received health services at Strachan Eyecare Plus are advised that their health records will be made available for transfer to themselves or to a health service provider of their choice.

Patients who wish to arrange transfer of their records should contact Strachan Eyecare Plus at blackburn@strachaneyecare.com.au within 21 days of the date of this notice.

After that time, records will be dealt with in accordance with the Health Records Act 2001 (Vic).

Continuity of your care

We want to reassure you that Jacky and the rest of the Strachan Eyecare Plus team, including Petra, Hana, Christa, Phoenix, David, Elisabeth, Ray, Helen, Carolyn, and Lauren, who have been working alongside Greg and Sue for many years, will all remain in place. You can expect the same high level of care and personal attention you have always received.

Dated: 27 th May, 2026 Contact: blackburn@strachaneyecare.com.au or 9878 9095

Jacky Wu and the Strachan Eyecare Plus Team

HEALTH RECORDS NOTICE — TRANSFER OF PRACTICE (STRACHAN EYECARE PLUS BALWYN) Strachan Eyecare Plus, located at Shop 4, Belmore Plaza, 399 Belmore Road, Balwyn, advises that this practice is being transferred to Jacky Wu, long-time employee of Greg and Sue Strachan, and that Greg and Sue will be retiring and no longer be providing health services. The business will continue under the same name. Your health records

In accordance with Health Privacy Principle 10.2 of the Health Records Act 2001 (Vic), patients who have received health services at Strachan Eyecare Plus are advised that their health records will be made available for transfer to themselves or to a health service provider of their choice.

Patients who wish to arrange transfer of their records should contact Strachan Eyecare Plus at balwyn@strachaneyecare.com.au within 21 days of the date of this notice.

After that time, records will be dealt with in accordance with the Health Records Act 2001 (Vic).

Continuity of your care

We want to reassure you that Jacky and the rest of the Strachan Eyecare Plus team, including Petra, Hana, Christa, Phoenix, David, Elisabeth, Ray, Helen, Carolyn, and Lauren, who have been working alongside Greg and Sue for many years, will all remain in place. You can expect the same high level of care and personal attention you have always received.

Dated: 27th May, 2026

Contact: balwyn@strachaneyecare.com.au or 9857 9375

Jacky Wu and the Strachan Eyecare Plus Team

Notice of Praecipe

For the record

Andreas Mardes(c) and Paulina Winnifred Mardes(c) in care of Wonga Park, Victoria State are permanently domiciled on the Land and Soil of Terra Australis. We are not voluntary transactors in commerce and we are the paramount security interest holders of all estates, properties, assets and collateral, both registered and unregistered, and all associated copyright protected trade names. Our lawful conveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis also known as the Commonwealth of Australia was recorded with Public Recording Number RPP44 63900 05100 28511 90600 and RPP44 63900 05100 28511 91607 respectively on Proclamation Date 16th March 2026. All usufruct subjugation ties have been severed with the occupying corporate government of Australia. The corporate Australian kakistocracy and it’s affiliates are instructed to immediately cease and desist misaddressing Andreas Mardes(c) and Paulina Winnifred Mardes(c) in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin, GLOSSA and to cease and desist infringing upon our estates, properties, assets, collateral and copyright protected trade names.

(1) A

a literary, dramatic, musical or artistic work, or work with an adaptation of a literary, dramatic or musical work, does not constitute an infringement of the copyright in the work if:

(a) it is for the purpose of, or is associated with, the reporting of news in a newspaper, magazine or similar periodical and a sufficient acknowledgement of the work is made; or (b) it is for the purpose of, or is associated with the reporting of news by means of a communication or in a cinematogrpah film.”

We acknowledge source material in ths edition:

• 1 Stop Training Centre - Wangaratta Chronicle

• Doutta Galla Aged Services - Shepparton News

• Golden Age Hotel - Bairnsdale Advertiser

• Heywood Rural Health - Portland Observer

• Kevin Pearce Tours - Have A Go News

• Medic Technology - Have A Go News

• Tathra Beach Eco Camp - Sapphire Coast

•Wyndham Central Secondary College - Wyndham Star Weekly