The Local Paper. Eastern Suburbs Edition. Wed., July 16, 2025
91-YEAR-OLD DRIVER
■ A 91-year-old woman was the driver of a vehicle that collided with three people at Wantirna South, killing one of them.
The incident occurred at a Coleman Rd playground on Thursday afternoon (July 10).
Emergency services responded to the single vehicle collision.
It is believed the vehicle lost control on Coleman Rd around 12.20pm, struck three pedestrians before driving through a fence.
One of the pedestrians, za 59-year-old woman died at the scene.
A second person, a 60-year-old man, was transported to hospital in a critical condition He died. A third person, a two-year-old, was taken to hospital with serious injuries. The driver of the vehicle was not seriously injured but was taken to hospital as a precaution.
Exact circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be determined and Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating.
CRIMINAL DAMAGE CHARGES AT KEW
This Saturday
■ Eastern District Football League. Premier Division. Round 13. Saturday, July 19.
2.20pm. Mitcham v Noble Park. Doncaster East v East Ringwood. Rowville v South Croydon. Blackburn v Vermont. Balwyn v Berwick.
DAMAGE ESTIMATED AT $100,000
■ Boroondara Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a woman after more than 40 cars were damaged in Kew on ANZAC Day
It is understood vehicles parked on Wishart St, Hunter St, Lady Locks Drive, Goldthorns Avenue, Campbell St, John St, Thomas St and Rowland St were damaged between 5.30am and 7am on April 25.
Police will allege the vehicles had their side panels and windows scratched using a sharp object, while one vehicle also had words engraved into a side window.
The damage to the 44 vehicles is estimated to be in excess of $160,000.
Detectives have charged a 30-year-old female of no fixed address with 44 counts of criminal damage.
The woman, who was charged on summons, was to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on July 15.
40 YEARS AT LOCAL COUNCIL
■ Maroondah City Council has acknowledged 42 employees for their significant length of service.
Mayor of Maroondah, Cr Kylie Spears, thanked the employees for their commitment throughout the years.
“Council is proud to celebrate our employees each year, in recognition of those who have served the community for a significant period of time.
“This year, we have six employees who are celebrating an impressive 30 years of continuous service, 12 who are celebrating two decades of service, 23 who have reached their 10-year milestone and one employee who has achieved an incredible 40 years of service in our Immunisation team,” Cr Spears said.
“These milestones are a testament to the positive working relationships Council employees build with each other, as well as the care and commitment they demonstrate while supporting the Maroondah community.
“I extend my congratulations to those celebrating milestones this year and sincerely thank each of them, along with all of our employees, for their dedication. Maroondah would not be the community it is today without your efforts.”
Maureen (Moon) Houston was among the employees recognised this year. Moon has been an Immunisation Nurse with Council for over 40 years.
"What started out as a head lice inspection expanded into today's immunisation operation. I believe in what I do. Immunisation is essential in maintaining a healthy community," Ms Houston said.
"A highlight is the enduring friendships with people I have worked with and the incredible improvement in the efficiency of our processes."
Local People
Margot, star at 80
■ Margot Capuano, 80, dons her netball bib and steps onto the court at Knox Regional Netball Centre
The oldest player in the Mountain District Netball Association turns up each Wednesday morning for a social game of walking netball.
She had given up netball at age 64 but has been able to resume the sport she loves thanks to a modified version of the game where players walk instead of run.
Margot says the game has expanded her social circle and improved her strength and fitness.
200-KMH TO AVOID ARREST
■ A motorcyclist has been charged after he was allegedly detected travelling at speeds up to 200-kmh while trying to avoid arrest.
Officers patrolling in Mulgrave first observed the motorcycle travelling at a fast rate of speed on Wellington Rd about 8.50pm on Thursday, June 3.
The Air Wing was called in as the motorcycle reached speeds of 140-kmh in a 80-kmh zone before entering the Monash Freeway
Police continued to follow the motorcycle from the sky as it allegedly reached speeds up to 200-kmhr while heading south the Monash Freeway and South Gippsland Highway
The rider performed a U-turn and the motorcycle was ridden northbound before pulling into a service station at the corner of Springvale and Wellington Rds
The rider allegedly stole fuel before speeding off, going back onto the Monash Freeway and making their way into the city.
Officers were able to co-ordinate a response on the ground and arrested the rider after he entered a side lane off Flinders St
The motorcyclist, a 21-year-old Berwick man is expected to be charged on summons with a string of traffic offences.
The motorcycle was also impounded for 30 days at a cost of $999.
This arrest formed part of Operation Advance, a local operation with dedicated Air Wing support targeting high-risk traffic offenders in the eastern suburbs.
Bayswater service marks 10 years
■ The Young Women’s Program of St Kilda Gatehouse is celebrating its 10 year Anniversary with an afternoon tea.
Chief Executive Office Nickie Gyomber says thatit has been a decade of empowering young people to step into lives of choice.
She says that YWP has had a profound impact among the community’s most vulnerable girls and young women.
“Having first opened in Dandenong in 2015, the YWP moved to Bayswater North during the COVID years.
“We continue to serve the south and east of Melbourne and have been fortunate to secure some local government support for our service.”
■ Sixty young people were supported through weekly/fortnightly individualised 1:1 outreach stream
■ 64 young people were indirectly supported through the Secondary Consultation expert advice service
■ 63 young people attended the early intervention therapeutic School's Based Group Work sessions, across eight schools
“Analysis of our 2024 calendar year therapeutic data revealed an improvement in Protective Factors among 65 per cent of young people involved in our 1:1 Outreach stream. This is significant, as the usual trajectory would be a decrease as risks and behaviours become entrenched and normalised.”
Youth Committee
■ TheCity of Monash’s Youth Committee scored a mention at the latest council meeting.
The Committee provides opportunities for young people to provide feedback and advice to Council and staff on issues of importance to them.
The MYC Committee:
• is led by an executive team of young people, who have been voted in by their peers
• provides an independent youth voice to Council plans, strategies, and programs
• advocates on issues impacting their peers in the local and wider area
• identifies and undertakes specific personal and professional development training
The Committee has two appointed Councillors who attend meetings. The Councillors do not have an executive function or voting rights. Councillors provide insight into Local Government function.
■ Local resident Jeffery Douglas asked Monash Council what is happening with the 149 Hansworth St development?
The Coubncil reply: “Stages 1 and 2 of the development are currently under construction. Stage 3 is yet to commence. Under the planning permit the development must be completed by November 8, 2028, unless the permit is extended.”
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45 YEARS AS NEWSMAN
IN MELBOURNE’S EAST
In 1978, Ash Long was Editor of Bayswater News, as well as President of the Bayswater Chamber of Commerce of Industry.
Leader Newspapers promoted the 22year-old to become Manager of the Knox and Mountain District Free Press, where he led production of a record-size 76page edition.
He had stints as Manager of the KnoxSherbrooke News, as well as Acting Editor of group newspapers including Box Hill, Nunwading, Ringwood, Croydon, Lilydale, Waverley and Chadstone.
Some 45 years on, in 2024, Ash Long continues his lifetime of community service, as Publisher of The Local Paper group, which has localised newspapers across 40 local government areas covering all Melbourne suburbs, the Mornington Peninsula and beyond.
He was involved with the Australian Suburban Newspapers’ Association, later becoming a National Judge.
In 1983, he branched out on his own, developing newspapers across Victoria.
In the intervening years, there have been successes (and a few stumbles!)
Ash Long as Editor of the Bayswater News in 1978.
In 2002, Long reinvograted the Melbourne Observer newspaper. It continues today as a free section within all editions of The Local Paper. There have been other involvements with TV, radio and online projects.
Decades on, Ash Long and his Local Paper team remain committed to providing the best possible service to readers and clients.
● Police Air Wing. File Photo.
● ● Maureen ‘Moon’ Houston
● Nickie Gyomber
● Margot Capuano
Statewide
BRUNSWICK WEST
Apartment fire
■ Fire Rescue Victoria responded to a building fire in Brunswick West on Wednesday evening (July 9).
Firefighters arrived within six minutes to find a residential unit on the third floor of an apartment building fully ablaze.
FRV crews evacuated an occupant from the apartment to safety. The occupant will be assessed by Ambulance Victoria
Firefighters contained the fire to the apartment and stopped it spreading to adjoining units.
The fire was declared under control at 5.42pm, 25 minutes after FRV arrived on scene.
The apartment sustained significant damage with the cause of the fire to be investigated.
SUNSHINE
Factory fire
■ Fire Rescue Victoria crews responded to a building fire on Judge St, Sunshine, at 1.22pm Wedndesday (July 9).
Firefighters arrived on scene within six minutes to find smoke and flames issuing from a 10 x 20 metre brick factory housing an auto repair business.
Firefighters in breathing apparatus entered the building and discovered multiple vehicles and mechanical parts on fire.
Firefighters assisted with evacuations from nearby businesses.
FRV crews were able to quell the flames and bring the fire under control at 1.53pm, 25 minutes after arriving on scene.
The building sustained significant damage in the blaze and will be assessed by the local municipal building surveyor for structural integrity.
No injuries have been reported.
A community advice message was issued due to the large amount of smoke in the area.
Cause of the fire is yet to be determined and was to be investigated by FRV fire investigators.
Across Victoria MAN CHARGED AFTER GLENROY ARSON ATTACK
■ Detectives from the Arson and Explosives Squad have charged a man following an alleged arson attack in Glenroy.
The charges follow an incident where it will be alleged the man threw a flammable substance over a woman before igniting it at outside a property on View St about 6.40am on Thursday, July 3.
A 35-year-old Glenroy woman was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries, where she remains in a critical but stable condition.
The parties are known to each other.
A 41-year-old Glenroy man was arrested at the scene.
He has since been charged with attempted murder and has been remanded to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on November 7.
WANTIRNA
Fatal crash
■ Police are investigating a fatal collision in Wantirna on Monday morning, July 7..
It is understood a motorcycle and car collided on Mountain Highway about 6am.
The motorcyclist, a 32-yearold Croydon man, died at the scene.
The driver of the car, a 30year-old Heathmont woman, stopped at the scene and was uninjured.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision remains ongoing.
Statewide
WEST MELBOURNE
Trains disrupted
■ Fire Rescue Victoria crews responded to a building fire on Rosslyn St in West Melbourne shortly after 3pm on Wednesday afternoon (July 9).
Firefighters arrived in six minutes to find smoke and flames issuing from a 30 x 10 metre storage building underneath the Dudley St railway bridge.
Firefighters in breathing apparatus entered the building and found various equipment and contents on fire.
A search confirmed no persons inside the structure.
Trains were halted while firefighters fought the fire and later inspected the rail line for fire extension.
The fire was contained to the contents of the building.
FRV crews were able to quell the flames and bring the fire under control at 03.33pm, 28 minutes after arriving on scene.
No injuries have been reported.
The cause of the fire is yet to be determined but will be investigated.
NEERIM EAST
Unsafe riders
■ State Highway Patrol Solo Unit officers have impounded three all-terrain motorcycles and issued several infringement and defect notices across Victoria Officers were on patrol when they intercepted three motorcycles on Beards Track in Neerim East about 3pm on Sunday, July 6.
After inspecting the bikes, it became apparent that all three were unregistered and failed to comply with the standards for registration.
The three bikes were impounded at a cost of $1291 each, while the riders, a 22year-old Traralgon man, a 22-year-old Yarragon man, and a 23-year-old Moe man, are expected to be charged on summons with traffic offences.
Officers also intercepted an allegedly unlicensed solo rider on an all-terrain motorcycle on La Trobe River Rd, Neerim East, about 1.30pm.
In association with the Established September 14, 1969 Online weekly. Print copies fortnightly.
Published in localised editions in 40 areas across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and some country areas.
ABOUT US
Incorporating the traditions of the Evelyn Observer (Est. 1873), the Box Hill Reporter (Est. 1888), Doncaster-Templestowe News (Est. 1962), Maroondah Mail (Est. 1922), Knox-Sherbrooke News (Est. 1967), Mountain District Free Press (Est. 1946). Waverley Gazette (Est. 1961) Progress News
The Local Paper is published weekly online and printed fortnightly and circulates in a local edition: • Local Paper - Eastern Suburbs Edition
Columnists: Len Baker, Matt Bissett-Johnson, Rob Foenander, Peter Kemp, Aaron Rourke, Ted Ryan, Cheryl Threadgold, Julie Houghton, Kevin Trask, John O’Keefe
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Ash on Wednesday Council ‘stunned’ by
■ Monash Council says that it is “stunned” by the State Government’s decision to withdraw more than $100,000 in funding from its sleep and settling program.
Monash Mayor, Cr Paul Klisaris, said the decision does not make sense given the State Government’s recent investment in a new facility housing our program.
“The Victorian Government invested $4.5m in our Dorrington Child and Family Hub in Mount Waverley, with Council contributing $2.4m to the $7m project,” Cr Klisaris said.
“Construction was completed in January and is home to a range of early years services, including 66 kindergarten places and our sleep settling program.
“We can’t understand why the Victorian Government would commit that level of funding and then remove support of a program central to the new hub’s support for families.
“We don’t want to reduce this crucial program for our community and will keep advocating to the Victorian Government to rectify this,” Cr Paul Klisaris said.
“Our sleep settling program creates a warm and inviting space with dedicated sleep rooms,” said a Monash Council representative.
“At our Dorrington Child and Family Hub in Mount Waverley, MCH staff look at the day in the life of a child and talk to parents about sleep strategies, feeding and family dynamics that may be impacting sleep patterns.
“ MCH staff also provide group sessions in both English and Mandarin. These sessions,
Long Shots
which are affected by the funding cuts, are the entry point for families with education and practical strategies.
“They also help our MCH staff to identify families who may benefit from more intensive programs.
“Without this funding, families may miss out on this early intervention, increasing demand for more intensive services and leading to longer waiting lists.
“Last financial year, over 800 families sought advice from our sleep and settling service, with close to 300 families receiving outreach support and another 55 on the waitlist for support in the future.
“ Council already contributes more than 65 per cent of the total cost to deliver the MCH service with Victorian Government funding covering the remaining costs.
“In 2024-25 Monash Council’s contribution to the delivery of MCH services was more than $1.6M,” Cr Klisaris said.
40kmh zones
■ There is a new speed zone for all local roads in the centre of Box Hill
The new 40-kmh speed zone came into effect last week.
The zone includes streets around Box Hill Central, Elgar Road, Box Hill Library and the Box Hill Community Arts Centre
The 40km speed zone has been in place around Box Hill Hospital since early 2024.
“Safer speeds make room for everyone, as we share our streets,” said a Council representative.
The Local Paper is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach The Local Paper or make a complaint to the Australian Press Council in writing at: www.presscouncil.org.au
The Council may also be contacted on 1800 025 712.
The Local Paper
BOROONDARA NORTHERN SECTION
Incorporating the traditions of the Boroondara Weekly, Progress News, Camberwell Free Press (Est. 26, 1927) Boroondara (North) comprises Ashburton, Balwyn, Balwyn North, Burwood, Canterbury, Deepdene, Greythorn, Kew, Kew East, Mont Albert and Surrey Hills. Boroondara is home to more than 167,231 people, living in approximately 69,420 homes.
KNOX
Incorporating the traditions of the Knox-Sherbooke News (Est. April 19, 1967), Mountain District Free Press (Est. Aug. 9, 1946), Ferntree Gully News (Est. 26, 1923) and Ferntree Gully Times (Est. Jun. 8, 1889). Knox comprises Bayswater, Boronia, Ferntree Gully, Lysterfield, Knoxfield, Rowville, Scoresby, The Basin, Upper Ferntree Gully, Wantirna, and Wantirna South. Knox is home to more than 154,110 people, living in approximately 59,086 homes.
MANNINGHAM
Incorporating the traditions of East Yarra News (Est. May 9, 1962) and Doncaster-Templestowe News. Manningham comprises Bulleen, Doncaster, Doncaster East, Donvale, Nunawading (part), Park Orchards (part), Ringwood North (part), Templestowe, Templestowe Lower, Warrandyte, Warrandyte South and Wonga Park (part). Manningham is home to more than 122,900 people, living in approximately 45,500 homes.
MAROONDAH
Incorporating the traditions of the Ringwood and Croydon Mail (Est. Jan. 9, 1924), Croydon City News (Est. 1983), Ringwood City News (Est. Jul. 6, 1984). Maroondah comprises Bayswater North, Croydon, Croydon Hills, Croydon North, Croydon South, Heathmont, Kilsyth (part), Kilsyth South, Park Orchards (part), Ringwood, Ringwood East, Ringwood North (part), Vermont (part), Warranwood and Wonga Park (part). Maroondah is home to more than 117,498 people, living in approximately 54,921 homes.
MONASH
Incorporating the traditions of the Waverley Gazette (Est. Feb. 8, 1961), Oakleigh Times (Est. Jun. 8, 1889).
Monash comprises Ashwood, Clayton, Glen Waverley, Hughesdale, Huntingdale, Mount Waverley, Mulgrave, Notting Hill, Oakleigh, Oakleigh East, and Wheelers Hill. Parts of Chadstone, Burwood and Oakleigh South are also included in Monash. Monash is home to more than 202,847 people, living in approximately 70,600 homes.
WHITEHORSE
Incorporating the traditions of Box Hill Reporter (Est. Jun. 26, 1889).
Whitehorse comprises Balwyn North (part), Blackburn, Blackburn North, Blackburn South, Box Hill, Box Hill North, Box Hill South, Burwood (part), Burwood East, Forest Hill, Mitcham, Mont Albert (part), Mont Albert North, Nunawading (part), Surrey Hills (part), Vermont (part) and Vermont South. Whitehorse is home to more than 176,196 people, living in approximately 65,881 homes.
Cheryl Threadgold, Local Theatre Julie Houghton, The Arts Kevin Trask, Entertainment
Rourke, Film Ted Ryan, Horse Racing Len Baker, Harness Racing
● Cr Paul Klisaris, Mayor
Police Rounds
Stolen car crash
■ Police have charged a woman after an allegedly stolen Mazda crashed in Brunswick West early hours of Friday morning (July 11).
It is alleged that a stolen blue Mazda sedan crashed into an unoccupied parked car and a power pole on Brunswick Rd about 12.30am.
The crash caused the engine block of the Mazda to ignite on fire.
Investigators allege the driver of the vehicle took off from the crash on foot.
The car fire was successfully extinguished and officers seized a substantial amount of cash from the abandoned vehicle.
Officers arrested a woman, alleged to be the driver, at a nearby property on Brunswick Rd
Investigators allege that the Mazda was stolen from a Coburg address on Thursday (July 10).
A 42-year-old woman of no fixed address has been charged with theft of a motor vehicle, handle proceeds of crime and various driving offences.
She was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.
Driver blew .18
■ Altona Highway Patrol officers expect to charge a rider after a Harley Davidson uturned straight into a police vehicle, early hours this morning.
A motorcycle was spotted travelling at a fast rate of speed near the corner of Derrimut and Hogans Rds about 1am.
The Harley Davidson was seen reaching alleged speeds of up to 140-kmh.
Officers attempted to intercept the vehicle before it’s alleged the rider attempted to perform a u-turn and collided with a police vehicle. No one was injured.
It is alleged that the rider retuned an evidentiary breath test for alcohol of 0.18 and a positive oral fluid test for methamphetamine.
A 49-year-old Hoppers Crossing man is expected to be charged with drug driving, drink driving and other driving offences.
The Harley was impounded at a cost of $1225.
Crop house raid
■ Police have dismantled a large cannabis crop house at a home in Chelsea, following an investigation into an alleged organised crime syndicate.
The Caulfield Divisional Response Unit executed a search warrant at the home on Newington Parade at 7.30am on Wednesday (July 8).
It will be alleged the sophisticated set up spanned the entirety of the property – eight rooms in total – with investigators seizing more than 200 cannabis plants of varying maturity.
The commercial quantity of the plants has an estimated potential street value of approximately $1.5 million.
A 22-year-old man from Caroline Springs was arrested at the property and charged with cultivating a drug of dependence.
Pending further analysis of the seized plant material, he could face additional charges.
The man was granted bail to appear at Frankston Magistrates’ Court on August 1.
Caulfield Divisional Response Unit Sergeant Stuart Burnham said: “Crop houses can often go undetected for long periods of time, which is evident due to the maturity and number of plants seized.
“It’s for this reason that we ask residents to let us know if they suspect anything unusual at a neighbouring property.
“This can sometimes – but not always –include windows blacked out, lights always on in certain rooms at all hours, [AND] excessive external wiring or cables.”
TEENS ARRESTED AFTER CARJACKING Sport
■ Brimbank Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged five teenagers as part of an ongoing investigation into a series of offences.
It is understood a rideshare driver picked three males up from Kings Park Reserve and dropped them off near Neil St in Sunshine about 10.30pm Friday (July 11).
They allegedly attempted to steal his car but were unsuccessful.
The victim, a 28-year-old Keilor East man, was allegedly stabbed during the incident but managed to drive to a nearby police station.
He was taken to hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries.
A short time later, police were called to reports of an aggravated carjacking on Kinnane Crescent in Sunshine about 10.50pm.
It is alleged that three males, armed with machetes, approached a rideshare vehicle, made demands for the silver Toyota Camry and assaulted the driver.
The rideshare driver, a 28-year-old Craigieburn man, was not physically injured.
The three males allegedly stole the Camry and fled the scene.
The vehicle was located by police at a fastfood restaurant drive-thru on St Albans Rd in St Albans
Police approached the Toyota before the driver allegedly attempted to drive away.
It is alleged the Toyota collided with an unmarked police vehicle and bollards at the drive-thru.
With the assistance of a K9 unit, six teenagers were arrested at the scene.
One of the males allegedly resisted arrest and sustained a dog bite.
He was taken to hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries.
All six males were taken into custody and interviewed by detectives.
A 16-year-old boy from the Brimbank area was charged with aggravated reckless exposure of police officer to risk by driving (x2), damage emergency services vehicle, criminal damage, theft of motor vehicle, unlicensed driving, being disguised with unlawful intent.
He will appear at a children’s court at a later date.
A 15-year-old boy from the Melton area was charged with theft of motor vehicle and possess prohibited weapon.
A 16-year-old boy from the Brimbank area, a 15-year-old boy from the Footscray area an a 15-year-old boy from the Brimbank area were charged with theft of motor vehicle.
They were all bailed to appear at a children’s court at a later date.
A 16-year-old boy from the Brimbank area was cautioned in relation to theft of motor vehicle.
Investigations are ongoing into the attempted carjacking, stabbing and aggravated carjacking.
WARNING ON STOLEN PLATES
■ With numberplate theft at record highs, Victoria Police is urging owners to fit anti-theft screws to their vehicles.
Across the state, numberplate thefts have surged by 50 per cent to the highest number recorded in the state, with 29,790 recorded over the last year, equivalent to 83 a day or one every 17 minutes.
Thefts of numberplates account for over a third of all items stolen from cars across the state, which continues to be the most common and fastest growing crime in Victoria. Not only is it an inconvenience to car owners, numberplate theft is often at the centre of more serious offending.
Stolen numberplates are often used by offenders to hide the identity of a vehicle when committing other crimes such as burglaries, ram raids, petrol drive offs and to evade police. In June, an alleged stolen Toyota Landcruiser drove through a shopping centre in
Preston while allegedly bearing stolen numberplates.
It is also believed stolen and cloned numberplates, along with stolen vehicles, have been used in incidents linked to several arsons at tobacco shops and associated businesses being investigated by the Lunar Taskforce.
The Crime Statistics Agency data indicates the top five areas for numberplate thefts over the year ending March 2025 are:
■ Casey (2139 numberplate thefts)
■ Hume (1966 numberplate thefts)
■ Greater Dandenong (1581 numberplate thefts)
■ Wyndham (1449 numberplate thefts)
■ Brimbank (1414 numberplate thefts)
Inter Dominion
■ The second round heats of the Albion Park Inter Dominion over 2860 metres was held last Saturday (july 12)with most winners well supported.
PACERS HEAT ONE
Queenslander Shannon Price and Adam Sanderson were victorious with first night winner 5Y0 Captain Treacherous-Musical Delight gelding Sure Thing Captain leading virtually throughout to record a 4 metre margin from Max Delight which had gone forward from the extreme draw to race uncovered when trying his heart out.
Tims A Trooper (gate two) off a three wide trail last lap was third 3.1 metres away, with Petes Said So (gate five) death – one/ one – one/two fourth 1.4 metres back. The mile rate 1-56.3.
HEAT TWO Grant Dixon’s phenomenal champion6Y0 entire Leap To Fame (Bettors DelightLettucereason) continued on his winning way, cruising to a 10.1 metre victory over Nyack (gate two second line – four wide home turn) in 1-53.7.
Kanena Provlima (gate three) after leading out and taking a trail on Aroda (gate four) ran on late when extricated into the clear to be a head away third, with Better Eclipse (one/two) fourth 5.8 metres back.
Second elect Don Hugo (three pegs from the pole) before coming off the inside to race in the open gave ground badly in the last lap to finish 28.4 metres back in eighth place.
HEAT THREE Shannon Price and Adam Sanderson made it a double after 6Y0 Bettors DelightPrivate Bronski gelding Speak The Truth scored in 1-56.1.
Able to cross Jorge Street (gate two) from gate three, Speak The Truth was rated to perfection, holding too many guns for a game Captains Knock ( three wide to outside the leader from outside the front line before easing to be one/one before again going forward three wide in the last lap).
Perennial placegetter Cya Art (four pegs) ran on late for third and Rakero Rebel (gate six) off a three wide trail from last fourth. The margins 3.1 by a neck by 3.5 metres. TROTTERS HEAT ONE West Melton (Christchurch) co-trainers David and Stacey White’s 5Y0 What The Hill-Factor The Odds gelding Bet N Win was an easy victor making it two from two. With Bob Butt in the sulky, Bet N Wil led from gate two before electing to hand over to London To A Brick from outside the front line which virtually took no part in last weeks heat after galloping wildly.
Although pocketed approaching the home turn, Bobby wasn’t perturbed and Bet N Win strode clear along the sprint lane to greet the judge by 3.5 metres in a rate of 1-57.8.
Police are regularly seizing stolen numberplates, particularly during operations utilising Automatic Numberplate Recognition Technology. ANPR technology allows police to rapidly scan vehicles and immediately identify any cars bearing false or stolen numberplates.
Six stolen numberplates were seized in an operation conducted in Brimbank , which is the fifth highest area for numberplate thefts across the state.
There were 1414 thefts of numberplates over the last year, which has increased by 40 per cent
All vehicle owners are urged to install anti-theft screws, which are also available from hardware stores, automotive parts stores and petrol stations.
Police are also urging the community to blur number plate details when advertising vehicles online, or when sharing photos on social media to avoid cloning.
Local hope Gus after making a three wide surge from the tail in the last lap before momentarily dropping into the one/one running into the final bend, was third 4.6 metres away 8 metres ahead of Not As Promised which raced exposed from the bell.
HEAT TWO
It was a Victorian quinella when honest 7Y0 Love You-Schleck gelding Parisian Artiste (gate four) trained by Alby Ashwood assisted by reinswoman partner Tayla French was successful. Stepping cleanly from gate four, Tayla seized the opportunity to challenge the leader Constantinople (gate five) and strode clear without spending any petrol.
Given a sweet trip, Parisian Artiste was untroubled to register a 6.7 metre margin over Arcee Phoenix which was quickly away from inside the second line to go forward and race exposed.
Roughie Love Gun (three pegs from gate two) was third 7.4 metres back with Victorian Harry Stamper (gate four second line –one/one last lap) fourth 4.3 metres away. The mile rate 1-57.6. The well fancied Kiwi Oscar Bonavena missed the start hopelessly from the pole making plenty of ground to finish sixth just scraping into the final.
Leap To Fame will be an unbackable favourite wherever he draws in Saturday’s Grand Final, while Bet N Win, Arcee Phoenix and Parisian Artiste look the main chances in the final. Should Leap To Fame win and there’s no reason why he should’nt he will become the richest standardbred in Australasian history. Len Baker
Your Stars
with Kerry Kulkens
Presented by Sarah
Kulkens,
Australia’s
Trusted Psychic Family
ARIES (March 21 - April 20)
Lucky Colour: White
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 3, 3, 2, 1
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 26, 30, 33
This week, it’s time to reassess your spending habits. Avoid unnecessary purchases and focus on financial planning. A project you’ve been trying to start may finally gain momentum. Romance is set to flourish.
TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)
Lucky Colour: Peach
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 3, 2, 6, 5
Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 25, 40, 44, 45
Better prospects are on the horizon, and you’ll feel renewed happiness. Unexpected support may come from new friends, helping you achieve more than anticipated.
GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)
Lucky Colour: Green
Lucky Day: Wednesday
Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 5, 6
Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 25, 36, 39, 3
Take some time to relax and avoid overthinking. If you’ve neglected someone special, now is the time to reconnect. Family support will strengthen your resolve during this period.
CANCER (June 22 - July 22)
Lucky Colour: Blue
Lucky Day: Monday
Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 2, 1
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 45, 8, 33
Support may not come from the expected sources, but this shouldn’t deter you from giving your best effort. Your loved ones will play a pivotal role in helping you make progress.
LEO (July 23 - August 22)
Lucky Colour: Mauve
Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 2, 3
Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 3, 36, 39, 5
Trying something new will bring a refreshing change. You’ll see improvements in areas where you’ve invested effort, and financial luck may follow.
VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)
Lucky Colour: White
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 2, 1, 3, 5
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 45, 40, 22
If you’ve done your best, luck will naturally follow. A busy social calendar promises happiness, and someone special may soon enter your life.
LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)
Lucky Colour: Peach
Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 2, 6, 9, 8
Lotto Numbers: 8, 12, 5, 16, 20, 33
Expect a bustling social life and an exciting encounter with someone from your past. A person born in May may prove particularly lucky for you.
SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)
Lucky Colour: Green
Lucky Day: Thursday
Racing Numbers: 2, 1, 3, 6
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 45, 40, 33
Double-check your business dealings, as unwritten agreements may lead to misunderstandings. A pleasant surprise in your love life will brighten the week.
SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)
Lucky Colour: Pink
Lucky Day: Monday
Racing Numbers: 1, 5, 9, 6
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 4, 20, 29
Keep business and pleasure separate this week to avoid complications. Positive changes in your love life are likely, as someone interesting looks closely at your personality.
CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)
Lucky Colour: Yellow
Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 9, 5
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 45, 40, 33
Take care of your health to fully enjoy this period. Avoid overcommitting your time, as something important may require your attention.
AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)
Lucky Colour: Orange
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 6, 9
Lotto Numbers: 1, 15, 26, 29, 8, 7
This week is ideal for strengthening bonds with loved ones. You may finally meet the person you’ve been looking for, and financial improvements are also on the way.
PISCES (February 20 - March 20)
Lucky Colour: Green
Lucky Day: Wednesday
Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 6, 5
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 45, 40, 22
Ensure you eat and sleep well to be prepared for extra tasks. Someone unexpected could play a key role in helping you achieve your goals.
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By Beverley Pinder
Vale Peter Russell-Clarke
■ Australia’s pioneering TV chef, Peter Russell-Clarke has died peacefully, aged 89.
With Jan, his faithful, English-born wife of 65 years by his side and his two children, Peter and Wendy, and their families - the cook, the artist, the writer, the illustrator, the author, and the television icon passed Friday July 3 from complications following a stroke.
We know him best as one of Australia’s first TV cooks. But Peter Russell-Clarke was a phenomenon – years ahead of his time.
Born in 1935 in Ballarat - a city recovering from the Great Depression, but still retaining its Victorian-era charm and history, particularly its gold rush heritage – Peter grew accustomed to living a simple life in between homes, following the divorce of his father and mother.
Peter’s father was an excommunicated Anglican minister and his mother a dressmaker – possibly where he gained his Bohemian-style of dress: neckerchief and artist’s smock - his signature de rigueur in daywear.
Peter was a political cartoonist for the Melbourne Herald; appeared in the 1983 film At Last…Bullamakanka: the motion picture alongside fellow ‘bearded bookend’ Derryn Hinch; worked as a creative director in the top advertising agency of the 70s; ran an unnamed pop-up restaurant in Carlton decades before they were a thing; wrote nearly 40 recipe books; and, was even named a food ambassador for the UN
The mischievous Aussie larrikin with a full beard and eyes that twinkled, found his happy place in television in the 70s and 80s.
His distinctive expressions: Come and Get It, on his fiveminute cookery show on the ABC lasted 900 performances before the ABC replaced it.
On the same nights if you were to switch channels there would be Peter scrambling across the countryside for the Australian Dairy Corporation with a backpack full of cheddar as onlookers shouted, “Where’s the Cheese?”
Decades later, strangers would still ask him that question. His lexicon, while teaching generations of Aussies how to cook, was peppered with “g’days”, “rippers” and “you beauts” – such was the relaxed manner in which he conveyed his secret to cooking as it was with painting: colour, form, texture and shape - the critical elements to think about. “Whether you are cooking or painting, follow your imagination,” was an oft revealed hint.
Peter spent stints in foster homes including living with a Chinese family who helped him discover Asian cuisine. They taught him how to work with Eastern -style flavours and cook banquetstyle meals, which he continued to prepare up until a couple of years ago when his health started to fail.
For a time, Peter lived on the streets of Melbourne , fossicking for discarded food behind Florentino on Bourke Street Half-jokingly, he would say, “that’s where I developed my love of fine food and I remember writing to the chef com-
plaining that his fish had freezer burn ...”
From the ABC TV show: “Come and get it, come and get it, with Peter RussellClarke . In the city or the outback he's Australia's brightest spark.
“Come and get it, come and
Pay up 3/-
■ Pay envelopes of 350,000 Victorian workers half the labor force-will be fatter by 3/ from the first pay day next month.
But cigarette and tobacco prices are up from Monday 1 d. on a packet, of 20 smokes and lld. on 2oz. of tobacco.
The cost-of-living rise of 3/, announced in Canberra yesterday, will apply to Victorian State Award workers, giving them a basic wage of £12.
Need an army
■ Án army pf inspectors would be needed to stop children seeing "unsuitable" films, Mr. Rylah, Chief Secretary told a deputation yesterday.
Mrs G. W. Paton, pre-sident of the Victorian Council for Children's Films and Television and leader of the deputation, brushed with Mr. Rylah during the meeting.
Mrs. Paton: stop children from seeing films branded by the censor as unsuitable.
Mr. Rylah: An army of inspectors would be needed to do this. My Government has recently been under fire for employing too many civil servants.
Scouts’ home
■ The Boy Scouts' Association has exchanged its present headquarters building at 516 Collins st., near King st., for the old Bank of Australasia branch building at 384 Elizabeth st., opposite TheArgusoffice.
Hidden threat
■ Health men are worried about the outbreak of dysentery and other diseases in Melbourne suburbs, writes Mr. T. R. Robertson, of Box Hill ...
But if they like to take a walk around the suburbs they will find the answer to the problem.
Every new road has an open, filthy drain, thick with slime and full of germs, where children play all day long and parents work to try to keep them free of weeds.
Best statement
get it, good food you like to eat; come and get it, come and get it and there's people you can meet …”
Adieu, Peter RussellClarke - the lovable, larrikin artist and gentleman of the art of relaxed cooking. ‘Til we all meet again.
■ Soviet Premier Bulganin today made the most welcome statement to come out pf the Kremlin since thei war - "Force is no answer to the problems to be discussed at Geneva." At an historic Press conference - the first ever held in the Kremlin, the first ever given by a Russian Premier - he told correspondents the dispute between Communism and Capitalism could not be solved by war. The Argus
● ● ● ● Peter Russell-Clarke
● At home with the microphone.
● ● ● ● The Argus. July 16, 1955.
Mary, Lady Montagu
■ Mary, Lady Montagu , daughter of Geelong car dealer Walter McClure, has died at age 87. As a rather inventive journalist, she had graced the pages of the Toorak Timesand SundayObserverwith her Lady M' social columns. She had married Lord Angus Montagu in 1961, produced son Alexander (13th Duke of Manchester) and daughter Lady Emma.
Kipling’s India
■ Murrindindi Film society will present John Huston’s colourful 1975 production of TheManWhoWouldbeKing. Doors open at 6.45pm for a 7pmstart on friday (July 18) at the Yea Butter Factory.
Based on a novella by Rudyard Kipling, the film had been a pet projecct of director Huston for many years.
The story follows the adventures of two rogue ex British Army sergeants in far off Kafiristan in the 1890s.
After briefly making the acquaintance of Kipling in India they set off through the Khyber Pass to aquire ill-gotten gains.
However various occurrences lead to one of them being created King by a local tribe which eventually leads to mayhem.
The adventurers are played by Michael Caine (Peachy Carnehan) and Sean Connery (Daniel Dravot), while Christopher Plummer appears as Kipling. Michael Caine’s wife Shakira plays Roxane, a beautiful local maiden.
The film has been described as “an escapist entertainment, quite unabashed and thrilling and fun” but also as “a genuinely witty and literate adventure story”.
It is hoped that as many members as possible will be able to attend this entertaining screening. Prospective members and first time guests will be made welcome free of charge.
All enquiries to Jill Dwyer, Secretary, 5797 2480 or jill.dwyer@bigpond.com
Jill Dwyer
Glass Menagerie
■ TheGlassMenagerieby Tennessee Williams will be presented by Running With Scissors Theatre and Victory People Productions from July 24 to August 2 at the Meat Market Stables, North Melbourne.
Co-directed and produced by Nicholas Reynolds and Nadia Sirninger Rankin, the play is narrated by Tom Wingfield. The story unfolds as he recalls life with his mother, Amanda and sister, Laura, in their cramped tenement apartment during the midst of the Great Depression.
The play explores family tensions and the struggle between illusion and reality in a world that feels increasingly confining.
This boutique production of The Glass Menagerieseeks to present a nuanced and resonant interpretation of Tennessee Williams’ classic, honoring its dreamlike essence while embracing fresh perspectives.
The cast includes Oliver Gorringe (Tom Wingfield), Linda Cookson (Amanda Wingfield), Caitlin McCallig (Laura Wingfield) and Columbus Lane (Jim O’Connor) Venue: Meat Market Stables, North Melbourne.
Dates: July 24, 25, 26, 31, August 1 at 7.30pm; July 27, August 2 at 2pm.
Ticket Prices: $55 General Admission, $34 Concession, $24 - MobTix, $76 - Support the Show, $100 - Patron of the Arts Link: events.humanitix.com/the-glassmenagerie-wqqg7rve/tickets Cheryl Threadgold
Ray Chen tours
■ Globally renowned Taiwanese-Australian violinist and social media sensation Ray Chen is touring Australia this September. Promoters say Chen redefines what it means to be a classical musician, with his viral reels and YouTube videos captivating millions of people around the world.
“His content highlights music’s ability to inspire joy, connection and healing in humans and animals.
“Joined by the gifted Julio Elizalde on piano, the virtuosic violinist will perform recitals at Arts Centre Melbourne’s Hamer Hall on September 8.
“Ray’s new Australian tour follows a huge 2024, with the release of his album Player1 and the growth of Tonic, the artist’s independent startup that is building a global community via a free platform for musicians and learners to practice their craft together.”
Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless
LOVING THE ALIEN
■ The enigmatic rockstar David Bowie was the focus of Loving The Alien, an Arts Centre Melbourne show that sought to find out the truth behind the legend.
However, while certainly having its moments in portraying Bowie’s life, it ultimately disappointed as it felt under-rehearsed and underdeveloped.
Going from his secondary school years up until his death in 2016, the show’s two singers, Karlis Zaid and Aurora Kurth, told stories about Bowie’s personal and professional lives.
They also sang a selection of his songs, with live music from a pianist and a guitarist supplemented with recorded music.
Zaid is credited as the creator of the show. It had an appealing simple structure of anecdote followed by song followed by anecdote.
Together, anecdotes and songs gave the audience something of an insight into Bowie . However, the anecdotes, while informative, were often poorly written with attempts at humour that were simply not funny.
The four performers, Zaid and Kurth singing and story-telling, with Andrew Patterson playing pianoforte and Aaron Syrjanen playing guitars, were all clearly professionals with solid stage experience.
Patterson and Syrjanen in particular stood out for their impressive display of musical talent. Unfortunately, apart from one or two instances, Zaid and Kurth’s voices didn’t feel right for many of the songs while their delivery of the anecdotes tended to be flat and uninspiring.
There was no credit for directing, other than Patterson for musical direction, and this was part of the problem; both Zaid and Kurth could have done with an outside eye to help improve their performances, of both text and song, as well as improve the writing.
Zaid, in particular, seemed lost for words at times and dependent on an autocue to get through the text.
The idea of honouring Bowie’s work in a show like this has its merits, but LovingThe Alienfelt like a first draft that needed a strong director to develop and grow it.
Venue: The Show Room, Arts Centre Melbourne.
Review by Peter Murphy
The Talented Mr Ripley
■ Acclaimed Australian playwright Joanna Murray-Smith's adaptation of American novelist Patricia Highsmith's 20th century iconic psychological thriller, TheTalentedMrRipley, will be presented at Arts Centre Melbourne from October 28 - November 23.
The Sydney Theatre Company production will make its Melbourne debut at the Playhouse direct from the world premiere Sydney season.
Murray-Smith will reunite with director Sarah Goodes to transform The Talented Mr. Ripley into 'an electrifying stage experience'.
The Melbourne season will star Will McDonald (Netflix’s HeartbreakHigh), Claude ScottMitchell (Binge’s TheLastAnniversary), Faisal Hamza ( ABC’s House of Gods), Andrew
● ● Karlis Zaid, creator/performer.
McFarlane ( ABC’s The Newsreader) and Johnny Nasser (HeartbreakHigh). The role of Dickie Greenleaf for the Melbourne season is still to be announced.
McDonald plays Tom Ripley, an orphan and a hustler, barely scraping by in 1950s New York. Beneath his woebegone exterior, Tom cultivates certain talents that set him apart: an extraordinary capacity for mimicry and deception.
He is a man with a face no-one remembers. Whereas no one could forget Dickie Greenleaf, a confident, stylish heir to a large fortune who introduces Ripley into the glittering world of luxury, beauty and hedonism on the Italian Riviera
Intoxicated with this new social scene, Tom begins to fashion himself after Greenleaf and imagine for himself a life, a life he’d kill for.
Joanna Murray-Smith says that reuniting with director Sarah Goodes to bring literature’s most alluring confidence man to life was a 'job sent from heaven': ''I have long been invested in The Talented Ms Highsmith and her wildly strange and brilliant mind. The world’s most famous serial killer has been waiting for his moment in the spotlight and it’s now."
For 70 years, the character Tom Ripley has captivated readers and cinephiles alike. Various film and television adaptations have been made of Highsmith’s 1955 novel, including the 1999 cult film starring Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jude Law, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Cate Blanchett.
"It’s remarkable how enduring the appeal of TheTalentedMrRipley remains, 70 years after Patricia Highsmith first published her novel.
“There’s something perennially intriguing about Tom Ripley, a character on the fringes, whose need for acceptance outweighs any moral code. The stage is the perfect setting for such rich psychological material, his slippery identity, his shame and his cunning talent for impersonation," said Goodes
Performance Season: October 28 - November 23
Venue: The Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne
Bookings: artscentremelbourne.com.au
Cheryl Threadgold
Jackson Aces
■ Duet Productions presents illusionist Jackson Aces' show Beyond Possible ... Live on Saturday, July 26 at 7.30pm at The Palms at Crown, Melbourne. From $60. Ticketmaster. Renowned for pushing the boundaries of modern magic, Jackson Aces fuses sleight-ofhand wizardry, psychological illusion, cheeky humour and a dash of dark arts to 'create an unforgettable theatrical experience'.
Jackson Aces has over sixmillion TikTok followers and fans across the globe, and his signature card artistry, captivating storytelling, and genre-defying illusions are said to 'stun even the most sceptical audiences'.
● ● Anna Snoekstra
■ Sisters in Crime will meet on Friday, July 18 at 8pm at the Rising Sun Hotel, South Melbourne, to present DesperateTimes, DesperateMeasures
Homelessness, financial crises, bad decisions, and family secrets can make for desperate times requiring desperate measures – even murder.
Authors Michelle Prak (BarrenCape), Samantha Byres (Dead Ends) and Anna Snoekstra (The Ones We Love) will chew over the issues with fellow author, Ilsa Evans
Date: Friday, July 18 at 8pm,. 6.30pm for dinner.
Venue: Rising Sun Hotel, 2 Raglan St., South Melbourne.
Tenor Stephen Coutts, who appeared in the TV mini-series Fake playing the character Ade, is appearing at the CWA’s High Tea and Opera on August 25 at the Hotel Windsor.
■ The second annual Winter Soiree by the Country Women’s Association of Victoria’s Umina Branch is again shaping up to be loads of fun.
Melbourne’s The Hotel Windsor will host the High Tea and Opera on Monday, August 25. Last year saw a combination of opera and charity go hand in hand to raise funds for the CWA’s support for vulnerable women, children and families.
Not-for-profit Ready Set will be on hand to help celebrate National Secondhand Wardrobe Day with CEO Cynthia Kralik speaking on the value of providing jobseekers who are experiencing disadvantage, high quality work-appropriate clothing, shoes and accessories to take them through from interview to a workday.
Tickets are $94 per head for High Tea and Opera with a glass of champagne. A raffle with generous prizes from The Hotel Windsor and other supporters will add to the fundraising efforts.
Date: Monday, August 25. Time: 12 noon for 12:30 pm. Venue: The Hotel Windsor, 111 Spring St, Melbourne. Tickets: Try Booking https://www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1410875
●
● Will McDonald stars in The Talented Mr Ripley
Photo: Derek Henderson
Local Theatre Observations
Shows
■ Peoples Playhouse Theatre Company: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (based on Roald Dahl’s novel) Until July 19 at the Cranbourne Community Theatre. Bookings: Trybooking.
■ MLOC Productions: The Pirate Queen (Boublil and Schönberg) Until July 19 at the Frankston Arts Centre, Davey St., Frankston. Director: Chris Ryan; Musical Director: Matthew Pines.
■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: The Diary of Anne Frank (by Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett) Until July 19 at the Lilydale Mechanics’ Institute, Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Kellie Tweeddale. Bookings: lilydaleatc.com
■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Love, Love, Love (by Mike Bartlett) Until July 19 (2pm matinees on weekends) at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: George Werther. Bookings: htc.org.au
■ Off the Leash Theatre: Things I Know to be True (by Andrew Bovell) July 17 – 20 at the West Gippsland Arts Centre, 1 Civic Place, Warragul. Director: Amy Moss. Bookings: offtheleashtheatre.com.au
■ Theatrical: Legally Blonde Until July 27 at the National Theatre, St Kilda. Director: Aimee F orrest; Musical Director: Kent Ross; Choreographer: Maggie Lynch, Bookings: booktickets.com.au
■ Fab Nobs Theatre: Zombie Prom - The Atomic Edition. Until July 20 at Fab Nobs Theatre, 33 Industry Place, Bayswater. Director: Maeghan McKenzie; Choreographer: Dean Robinson; Musical Director: Sally McKenzie. fabnobstheatre.com.au
■ CPP Community Theatre: Seussical Jr. July 17, 18 at 7.30pm; July 19 2pm; at Boronia K-12 College, Performing Arts Centre, Albert Ave., Boronia (park at Rangeview Rd. end). Director/Musical Director: Helen Taylor; Associate Director: Fiona Rosel. Bookings: cppcommunitytheatre.com.au/
■ Darebin Arts Speakeasy: Garçon with Wani Toaishara, July 16 – 20 at the Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre, 189 High St, Northcote. Bookings: arts.darebin. vic.gov.au/Programs-and-opportunities/ Programs/Speakeasy-presentations/garconby-wani-toaishara
■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Lord Savile’s Crime (by Constance Cox) July 24
– August 2 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Director: Deborah Fabbro. Bookings: mordialloctheatre. com.au
■ Encore Theatre: Agatha Crispie (by Cenarth Fox) July 18 – 27 at the Clayton Theatrette, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: David Dodd. Bookings: Trybooking.
■ Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria (GSOV): The Mikado July 17 – 20 at The Alexander Theatre, Monash University, Clayton.. Queenscliff Town Hall, July 26, Stawell Town Hall, August 2; Berninneit Theatre at Cowes, August 9. Bookings: gsov.org.au
■ PLOS Musical Productions: We Will Rock You. July 25 – August 2 at the Frankston Arts Centre, Davey St., Frankston. Director: Paul Watson. Bookings: plos.asn.au or 9784 1060.
■ The Basin Theatre Company: Educating Rita (by Willy Russell) August 7 – 17 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Sharon Maine. Bookings: thebasintheatre.au
■ Williamstown Musical Theatre Company: Disney’s Dare to Dream Jr. August 1 – 10 at Altona Theatre, 115 Civic Pde., Altona. Director: Stuart Dodge; Musical Director: Ang Cuy; Choreographer: Gabriele Pagano. Bookings: wmtc.org.au
■ The 1812 Theatre: Home, I’m Darling (by Laura Wade) August 7 – 30 at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Amy Calvert. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au
■ Beaumaris Theatre: The Witches (based on the book by Roald Dahl. Adapted by David Wood) August 8 – 23 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Leah Osburn. Bookings: beaumaristheatre. com.au
■ Brighton Theatre Company: Fallen Angels (Noel Coward) August 15 – 30 at Brighton Theatre. Director: Joe Dias. Bookings: brightontheatre.com.au
Entertainment
TROPHY BOYS
■ The acclaimed queer black comedy Trophy Boys is returning to Arts Centre Melbourne from August 12 - 24.
Set on the night of the Grand Final of the Year 12 Interschool Debating Tournament –TrophyBoysfollows the all-boys debate team from an elite private school as they are tasked with arguing that ‘feminism has failed women’.
Written by Emmanuelle Mattana (ABC’s Mustangs FC) and directed by Marni Mount (POTUS:Or,BehindEveryGreatDumbassare SevenWomenTryingtoKeepHimAlive) and performed by a female and non-binary cast in masculine drag, the play unfolds in real time during the debate’s one-hour prep window as the riotously funny satire turns into a sharp exploration of power and privilege.
TrophyBoysdebuted to sold-out crowds at La Mama Theatre in 2022, followed by sold-out seasons at fortyfivedownstairs in 2023 and Arts Centre Melbourne last year.
Off the back of TrophyBoys’success in Australia, a US production premiered this year, directed by Tony Award -winning Danya Taymor and Mattana as a member of the cast.
For the Arts Centre Melbourne season, Leigh Lule returns as the nerdy enigma David, along with Gaby Seow as the dopey lawyer’s son Scott and Fran Sweeney-Nash as the soft-boy-jock Jared. Myfanwy Hocking will debut as the brainiac scholarship kid Owen. Performance Season: August 12 - 24
Venue: Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio
Bookings: artscentremelbourne.com.au
Cheryl Threadgold
Forgotten Songbook
■ A new Australian musical, TheForgotten Songbook, opens at Chapel off Chapel, Prahran, from July 25 - 27.
The ambitious project is led by two talented young theatre makers - 23-year-old historian and composer Emerson Hurley and producer Dylan McBurney.
Under the direction of Mikey Halcrow, the cast features versatile Melbourne musical theatre performers Karla Hillam and Jonathan Guthrie-Jones, with Emerson Hurley on the piano.
Presented as the songs of a forgotten GoldenAge composer, the show comprises original songs written in the AmericanSongbookstyle.
When Hurley first encountered the music of Broadway composer Wilbur Weissman, he was astonished to find that almost no information about this once-famous songsmith was publicly available.
More Shows
■ The Mount Players: A Skull in Connemara (by Martin McDonagh) August 15 – 31 at the Mountview Theatre, Murphy St., Macedon. Director: Travis Handcock. Bookings: 0419 329 052
■ Peridot Theatre: Frankenstein (by Nick Dear) August 15 – 24 at the Clayton Community Centre Theatrette, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: George Benca. Bookings: tickets@peridot.com.au
■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: Grey Nomad (written and directed by Dan Lee) August 22 – September 6 at the Warrandyte Mechanics’ Institute, 180 Yarra St., Warrandyte. Bookings: Trybooking.
■ Malvern Theatre: The Humans (by Stephen Karam) August 22 – September 6 at 29a Burke Rd., Malvern. Director: Nicky Neville-Jones. Bookings: malvern theatrecompany.com.au
Cheryl Threadgold
Once at the heart of Tin Pan Alley in the thirties and forties, it seemed that Weissman, like many of his contemporaries, had fallen into complete obscurity.
Leading a passion project combining his love of music and history, Hurley is thrilled to be bringing Weissman's work to the stage for the first time in decades.
Alongside Hurley's new book, the product of painstaking research, and presented with humour and sensitivity, the music of TheForgottenSongbookis said to 'make a heart- warming case for one overlooked artist’s reintegration into the musical theatre canon.'
Audiences will experience the swinging music of Broadway's most iconic era 'as never heard before', and are invited to decide whether Weissman's name should join the ranks of Broadway legends or be relegated to history.
Producer Dylan McBurney says: "With themes of authenticity and imitation, the show explores the anxieties that artists face in their professional lives, and asks the difficult question: what if our own art is forgotten?"
Performance Season: July 25 7.30pm (opening night), July 26 7.30pm, July 27 at 5pm.
Venue: Chapel off Chapel, 12 Little Chapel St., Prahran.
■ The Australian Music Vault has announced a new display, KylieMinogue:TheMusicVideosfeaturing six iconic costumes including the white jumpsuit worn in the video clip for Can’t Get You Out Of My Head’ and, a Jean-Paul Gaultier outfit worn in the video for fan anthem All The Lovers . The Gaultier costume will be on display to the public for the first time in honour of the 15th anniversary of the hit.
The new display features costumes from Kylie’s video clips including Hand on Your Heart, Did It Again, On A Night Like This, Can't Get You Out of My Head, I Believe In You and All the Lovers
Australian Music Vault curator Olivia Jackson said: “The format of music videos – with special effects, lighting and editing – allowed Minogue to experiment with more adventurous costumes, themes and narratives that would be otherwise difficult to convey in live performance.”
Jackson said her videos have helped define her status as a global pop star with her back catalogue of videos revealing a journey through the world of pop culture, an evolution of aesthetics, personas and creativity.
“The display explores select moments from Kylie’s artistic evolution over the years. It is comprised of six costumes spanning three decades of Kylie’s career, beginning with Hand OnYourHeart(1989) and ending with AllThe Lovers(2010).
“Kylie’s music videos have left an indelible mark on her legions of fans over the years, and this display provides an opportunity to have a close interaction with iconic costumes from these videos.”
The Australian Performing Arts Collection is the proud custodian of the Kylie Minogue Collection. Starting from a single costume donation in 1991, today it includes more than 300 costumes and accessories, alongside other material related to her concert tours.
The Australian Music Vault is a free exhibition developed by Arts Centre Melbourne in collaboration with the music industry and was a key initiative of the Victorian Government's Music Works strategy.
■ While some brothers grow up niggling each other and striving to outdo one another, Slava and Leonard Grigoryan were usually in harmony. Literally.
The now-adult brothers have become a musical force to be reckoned with, carving out international names separately and together as classical guitarists.
Returning to their hometown of Melbourne, they are performing at Hawthorn Arts Centre on August 1.
The multi–Aria Award winning duo will perform a collection of numbers from their 2024 album entitled Amistad, which is s a collection of arrangements given to them by composers they have met on their musical journeys over the last 20 years.
Those composers include Cuban guitarist Leo Brouwer, jazz guitarist Ralph Towner, pop idol Sting’s guitarist Dominic Miller, and acclaimed Australian pianists Nat Bartsch and Sally Whitwell
The concert will also include popular works from the brothers’ earlier albums.
The brothers never confine themselves to one narrow genre, as they enjoy playing music spanning different centuries and styles.
The brothers Grigoryan promise a fine night of music in a lovely venue in this Melbourne winter, and it’s a must for everyone who enjoys classical guitar. It’s all happening at 7.30 pm on Friday August 1 at Hawthorn Town Hall. Book tickets at brooondara.vic.gov.au/events/ grigoryan-brothers-amistad Julie Houghton
Dare To Dream Jr
■ Williamstown Musical Theatre Company presents Disney'sDaretoDreamJr from August 1 to 10 at Altona Theatre
Disney’s DaretoDreamJrfollows an eager group of trainees on their first day at a fictional Walt Disney Imagineering Studio
As the group sets out to help each other discover their dreams, they work together to explore the power of dreams to unite, inspire, and make anything possible.
Drawing from a century of beloved Disney films, Dare to Dream Jr features songs appearing for the first time ever in a Disney stage musical, including songs from The PrincessandtheFrog,Coco,Encantoand FrozenII
This musical revue is described as "a thrilling mix of contemporary songs, timeless classics, and brand-new medleys that are sure to surprise and delight Disney lovers of all ages".
Performance Dates: August 1, 7 at 7.30pm; August 2, 3, 9, 10 at 1pm; August 2, 9 at 5pm
Venue: Altona Theatre, 115 Civic Pde., Altona
Bookings: 1300 881 545 or wmtc.org.au Cheryl Threadgold
● ● ● ● Leigh Lule, Gaby Seow, Fran Sweeney-Nash and Myfanwy Hocking star in Trophy Boys.
● ● Leonard and Slava Grigoryan
● ● ● ● Jonathan Guthrie-Jones (left), Emerson Hurley and Karla Hillam in The Forgotten Songbook. Photo: Kris Wardhana.
● ● ● Cast of Disney's Dare to Dream Jr.
The Melbourne Observer section is published
CATO THE WISE
Maxwell Newton
★Warragul will host this year’s Rural Press Club of Victoria awards. The event will be held on Friday, October 31 at the West Gippsland Arts Centre
Successful events have been held in Bendigo, Ballarat and Geelong in the past three years.
★The premiere of Stories of Bradmill, a short film delving into the legacy of the iconic Bradmill denim factory and the vibrant community it fostered, was held last Wednesday (July 9) at The Sun Theatre, Yarraville
★The Maylene Yinarr TrioEchoes of the Earth will perform at 8pm on Wednesday, August 20, at Clocktower, Moonee Ponds. Yinarr is described as the next generation of Australian singer songwriter music, from Melbourne. She will appear with special guests Phoebe Elsworth and James Seymour.
★Andy Jackson and Gayelene Carbis will be judges for the Woorilla International Poetry Prize. Entries close at midnight on September 30.
★Ultimate Backroads & Detours: Australia is the latest guide from bestselling author and travel writer Lee Atkinson, exploring 35 of the best backroad trips and detours the country has to offer.
★Chilliest municipalities in Melbourne have been ranked by Alliance Climate Control: Kingston, Maroondah, Knox, Manningham, Moonee Valley, Whitehorse, Brimbank, Monash, Boroondara and Banyule.
★John McKechnie’s new book is described as a compelling reflection on justice, power and the human stories behind the law. He was a barrister, prosecutor, judge ancd corruption commissioner.
★Environmentalist, scientist, writer and researcher Professor Tim Flannery has joined RMIT in the College of Design and Social Context.
★Comedian Sheng Wang is performing at the National Theatre, St Kilda, in a second show at 4.30pm on Saturday, August 16.
★Kew author Anne Vines has published Flight, a novel about love, war and forbidden desire in wartime Melbourne
★Jack Braddy, actor/producer, lives in Preston. His company Weird Neighbour put a callout for a new social media intern, and had a response from a 60+ year old man named Malcolm Daniher. He says the community has got around him.
★Cinnabon opened at Melbourne Central last Saturday.
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
Rourke’s Reviews Entertainment
★Dancing Story provides an interactive dance and storytelling session for children aged 3-5. Hosted by the Australian Ballet Education and Outreach team at Clocktower, Moonee Ponds, participants will explore the story of Wonderland, an adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s famous storybook. Event date is Wednesday, September 17.
★Truffles , the modern fable from Italy’s truffle region, is set to screen across Australia on Sunday (July 20) as part of the Espresso Cinema Italian film series.
★A free, family-friendly event, planting 3000 native trees, shrubs, and ground covers, will be held on Sunday, July 27, at Koolamara Waters Reserve, Ferntree Gully , a hotspot for waterbirds in Knox
★Banyule Council is discontinuing its free community bus. The The final day of service was June 30. The community bus was introduced in April last year on a trial basis.
★Platypus artworks are on display at the Lerderderg Library, Bacchus Marsh, until further notice. The cardboard sculptures are by artist Taro Iiayama. The Bacchus Marsh Platypus Alliance has loaned the artworks, as large as five metres long, to Moorabool Council
★Hume City Council is once again offering a free confidential Tax Help service to help residents who earned less than $70,000 in the last financial year to complete and lodge their tax returns. The Tax Help program is delivered in Broadmeadows, Craigieburn and Westmeadows. The program is run by the Australian Taxation Office and supported by trained and accredited volunteers from the Hume Volunteer Gateway.
★Soft plastic recycling is back in Manningham thanks to a new trial at Woolworths supermarkets. Items must be clean and dry. Eligible soft plastics include: plastic bags, zip lock bags, cling wrap, bread bags, chip packets, cereal liners, yoghurt pouches, baby food pouches and pet food pouches. These materials will be transported to local recycling facilities to be processed into products like shopping trolleys, park furniture and road additives. In Manningham, locations include: Devon Plaza, Westfield Doncaster Shopping Centre and Macedon Square.
★Nominations are now open for the Cardinia Shire Council's annual Good Choice Awards Nominees are to be aged 12-24.
Chamber Made
■ Chamber Made will transform Melbourne Recital Centre into a sonic playground with ListeningActs – a bold takeover of its public and hidden spaces for the Now or Never festival, from August 22 - 24.
ListeningActsisn’t a typical concert or exhibition – it’s a portal into the unheard and unexpected, featuring three live performances and six sound installations that intersect sound, technology, memory and identity.
Grounded in the artists’ lived experiences, personal histories and cultural perspectives, the works create sensory encounters that are both solitary and shared, blurring the boundaries between hearing and feeling.
Chamber Made Artistic Director, Tamara Saulwick, invites audiences to experience this multi-artform sonic inquiry – one that reframes how sound is perceived and encourages listening in entirely new ways.
“ListeningActstransforms everyday sounds into something profound, strange and moving. How do we hear ourselves and each other through the layers of technology, trauma and time?” asks Saulwick
The intimate live performance features three acoustic works:
SongtotheCellby Biddy Connor is a haunting duet between a live vocalist and a hospital IV machine. Featuring hums, beeps and mechanical rhythms, it’s a transhumanist song cycle exploring healing, dependence and human–machine connection.
TactilePieceforHumanEarsby Aviva Endean offers a subtly communal binaural experience. Audiences wear headphones to enter a surreal soundscape shaped by wind currents, pipe tones and underwater vibrations – altering their sense of acoustic reality.
Soundingforms/formingsounds by Alexandra Spence begins as a solo and evolves into a trio with Connor and Endean. Using resonating sinewaves, custom-built perspex instruments and drum skins, the work reveals the physical presence of sound in space and the body.
Six free installations guide audiences on a sonic journey throughout the venue:
Accordion Without Organs by Rebecca Bracewell is an unfolding work of sonic archaeology centred on a single accordion recording.
Cathedral Reverb by Hannah de Feyter invites one listener at a time into a sculpted sound space.
WithGhosts:AChoreographyof Presence by Anna Liebzeit centres on a 13-foot plait of hair suspended on a wall, paired with an educational video.
Chit and Chat by Monica Lim eavesdrops on the uncanny, AI-generated conversation of two water coolers.
Myself in That Moment by Tamara Saulwick with Peter Knight is a 39-channel audio-visual installation.
InSilenceby Thembi Soddell is a deeply personal, one-on-one audiovisual experience that grapples with family history and the intergenerational impacts of war.
Event Dates: August 22 - 24
Venue: Melbourne Recital Centre, 31 Sturt St, Southbank Free installations. Fri. Aug. 22 –Sat. Aug. 23 11am – 8pm; Sun. Aug. 24 2.30pm – 6pm
Live performances. Fri. Aug 22
6pm and 8.30pm; Sat. Aug. 23 2pm and 6pm
Artist talk: Sat. Aug. 23 at 4pm
Tickets: $25 – $50 (plus booking fee)
Booking: melbournerecital.com. au or 9699 3333
Cheryl Threadgold with Ben Starick
28 Years Later
■ (MA). 115 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.
Director Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland return to their influential 2002 virus horror/thriller 28DaysLater with this meaty, doggedly different follow-up which will disappoint many who want more of the same, or crave a nostalgic hit in the vein of TopGun:Maverickor other belated sequels.
Focusing on a quasi-religious community who live on an isolated island, the story centres on 12 yearold Spike (an extraordinary Alfie Williams ), who is now at an age where he questions everything around him, including the behaviour of his father Jamie (Aaron Taylor-Johnson), who decides what is true with impunity, while his mother Isla (Jodie Comer), who is so unwell due to unknown health issues, is bedridden and dismissed.
When Spike is exposed to the world outside their bubble, having to confront hordes of the infected, he will decide to undertake a dangerous journey that will open his eyes in unexpected ways.
Knowing audiences will have certain expectations, Boyle and Garland deliberately shake and kick those expectations out the door, wanting to concentrate on something new, and while the opening scenes are admittedly confusing, the fresh story does engage and involve, building to an emotional finale.
Along with Williams, there are terrific performances from Comer and Ralph Fiennes, while the normally dull Taylor-Johnson leaves a bigger impact.
The film is stunningly shot on state-of-the-art iPhones. The changes in tone will be off-putting to some, who will find the emergence of absurdist humour (especially during its bizarre non-ending) distracting and misguided.
28 Years Later is a thoughtful, refreshing sequel, one that wants to take its story in a new direction, and will feel relevant to what is going on in the world today.
The next instalment, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, is due out in January.
RATING - ****
F1: The Movie
■ (M). 155 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.
For all those millions of people who loved TopGun:Maverick(I am definitely not one of them), then they should love F1, which is basically TopGunwith cars. Brad Pitt plays the seasoned veteran who has a troubled past, while Damson Idris is the cocky young contender who is trying to hit the big time.
The two have to team up for the new Formula One season, and of course they don’t get along at first. Javier Bardem is the old friend who gives Pitt a second chance, and Kerry Condon might as well wear a T-shirt with ‘Love Interest’ printed on it.
The script is full of cliches, the characters are paper thin, and the simple plot is utterly predictable (and yet it goes an astoundingly overlong 155 minutes).
The racing footage is impressive, but as the film is nothing more than a series of set-pieces, it all eventually becomes tiresome and repetitive.
The 1990 Tom Cruise film Days OfThunderwas a bad, bad movie, so it’s not a positive to say F1 would make an appropriate double bill with it.
RATING - **
Megan 2.0
■ (MA). 119 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.
This sequel to the surprise 2022 box-office hit decides to go down a different path, moving from horror/comedy to action/comedy, but the result is anything but satisfying.
A murderous villain in the first film, the title A.I. intelligent doll is now a murderous hero in the vein of Arnie in Terminator2, protecting a child while trying to defeat an improved version of itself.
Returning director Gerard Johnstone, working from a script by Akela Cooper, could have been a goofy, fun 90 minute B movie, but the material is stretched to a ridiculous two hours.
This flattens the humour, and dulls the edge on the action scenes.
Characters are one-note, with performances to match.
Megan 2.0 is completely wrongheaded in its execution, bringing an obviously intended franchise to possibly a very quick end.
RATING - ** Aaron Rourke
In Memory of
● ● Aaron Rourke
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
Observer
Lovatts Crossword No 11
Across Across Down Down
1. More droopy
6. Dig
11. Legendary gold city (2,6)
15. Having a poor ear for pitch (4-4)
20. Relations
21. Undue speed
22. Pen name, ... de plume
23. Gleefully chuckles
24. Tent supports (3,5)
25. Jesus' home town
27. Singing with trills
28. Prima donna
29. Writer, ... Thomas
31. The O of PTO
32. A wolf in ... clothing (5'1)
36. ANC hero, Nelson ...
37. Within house
38. Lovely
41. Dutch centre of govt, The ...
44. Fishing-line fibre
45. Sample
48. Way of life
49. Very busy
52. Goose & ...
56. Out-of-vogue star (3-4)
57. Small stone
58. Most uptight
61. Arduous experience
62. Foretold
63. West African nation, Sierra ...
64. Warms
65. Fools
66. Cleaver
67. Without artifice
71. Toadstools
73. Silly
75. Catastrophes
80. Ignore
82. Ice-cream desserts
83. Globes
85. Acting as go-between
86. Treat cruelly (3-3)
88. African disease fly
90. Nourishing drinks (3,5)
91. Bible song
93. Current flow rating
94. Interjectors
95. Ski headwear accessory
96. Military flying facility (3,4)
97. No part
99. Burial vault
100. Removed from power
104. Hoist (flag)
105. Cat cry
106. Of sheep
107. Leaseholders
111. Slightly wet
113. Crab's pinch
114. Have
115. Wrath
117. Pitch tent
118. Should, ... to
121. Tribal post, ... pole
122. Moved slowly
125. Field
126. Jump high
127. The ... of Capri
129. Assistant
131. Opposed to
132. Releases grip (4,2)
135. Among
136. Emerald Isle
139. Hordes
140. Scolded
144. Eagle's nest
145. Chick's call
146. Aimed
147. Disengage (train carriages)
148. Splendid (mansion)
149. Public square
150. Lacking originality
152. Customary
154. Baton races
157. Flying saucers (1,1,2)
158. Blabs
162. Matching outfit
163. Meagre
166. Flag down (cab)
167. Speech defect
169. Butterfly catchers
171. Biblical you
172. US moon rocket
173. Composer, Andrew ... Webber
175. Cloth fold
176. Chock
179. Culminate in (4,2)
180. Wash lightly
182. Recline, ... down
183. Repetitive strain injury (1,1,1)
184. Grind (meat)
186. Powder, ... of Paris
189. Thread
190. Peace pact
191. Sense receptor
192. Said
196. Tenant's payment
197. Bellow
198. Vermouth cocktail
199. Remnants
201. Playing for time
202. Harvesters
203. Roof overhangs
204. Last Russian tsar
205. Entangle
208. To the rear
210. Bridge designer
211. Sector
212. Outdoors (4-3)
213. Sinks in middle
215. Unfavoured horses
219. Lead-in
221. Sunday joint
223. Not perfumed
227. Juvenile
228. Ambassador's office
230. Move with effort
231. Cut wildly
232. Pillages
233. Mutilate
234. Admire
238. Delighted
239. First
240. Meal
243. Approval
246. Loosen
247. Dough ingredient
250. Corn husks
251. Out of style
253. Laughing scavengers
256. Frequent visitor
257. Female betrothed
258. Cease
262. Spy, ... Hari
263. Steak cut (1-4)
266. Ark builder
268. WA wine-growing region, ... River
269. Business income
270. Artist's medium (3,5)
271. Sewer coverings
272. Born as
273. Man-made fabric
274. Raises (the ante)
275. Climbs down
276. London/Edinburgh express, Flying ...
277. Lacy robe
278. Roomy
1. Confronts
2. Holed atmosphere layer
3. Erect (3,2)
4. ... out a living
5. Coming up (of sun)
7. Red pepper spice
8. Brutal
9. Michael Flatley's Lord of ... (3,5)
10. Simple
11. Famous volcano
12. Inclinations
13. Continually (2,3,2)
14. Phenomenal
15. Turrets
16. Actor, ... Sharif
17. Fire fragment
18. Remove from home
19. Misty
24. Pastime
26. Multitude
30. Lounges about
33. Barn dance
34. Distinguished
35. Actor, Sam ...
38. Ringing (of bell)
39. Nudged
40. Drama venue
42. Afresh
43. Unties
46. Junkies
47. Compared to
49. Cooperative
50. Top of head
51. List down
53. Non-believer in God
54. Roman moon goddess
55. Staff schedules
59. Proximity
60. Able to be rubbed out
67. Uncared-for
68. Traffic jam (5-2)
69. Undoes (envelope)
70. Sly suggestion
72. Opening
74. Telling
76. Debatable
77. Energies
78. Copy
79. Siblings
81. Until now
84. Mattress frame
87. Paint thinners
89. Called
91. Autocue
92. Insane lady
98. Fireplace shelf
101. TV host, ... Dingo
102. Egg shapes
103. Give work to 108. Stoat
109. Colloquial language
110. Inspire
112. Inventiveness
116. Feared Mongolian ruler (7,4)
119. Inattentive
120. Grotesquely
123. Small coffee cup
124. Welcoming
128. Clinging gastropods
130. Hero-worship
132. Feebler
133. Fish commercially
134. Survive (3,2)
137. Turn out
138. Disgust
141. Granny Smith fruit
142. Cogwheel set
143. Personal memoirs
151. On dry land
153. Lucky charm
155. Dismiss (from college)
156. Map book
159. Desire for food
160. Tethered (4,2)
161. Pleads
164. Swiftly
165. Fluid unit
168. Laziness
170. Glimmers
173. Unused portion
174. Public referee
177. Filth
178. Coming into view
181. Water (pasture)
185. River flows
186. Allspice
187. Orange/pink shade
188. Libya's capital
193. Afternoon break
194. Vote back into office (2-5)
195. Wanted
200. Uniformity
201. Divide
206. Not either
207. Car horns
208. Takes into custody
209. Type of spanner
211. Appoints
214. Sultan's wife
216. Sissy
217. Austere
218. Disappoints
220. Hobo
222. Conscious (of fact)
224. Held tenderly
225. Subtleties of meaning
226. Infinite
229. Famous US university
232. Army dining room
235. And so forth (2,6)
236. Greek philosopher
237. Coffee drug
241. Legal trade ban
242. Lawsuits
244. Surgical blade
245. Kissing & cuddling
248. Eases off
249. Which
251. Repressed, ... up
252. Postage stickers
253. Hot & damp
254. Gains
255. Proverb
259. Moral principle
260. Eskimo hut
261. Cricket matches
262. Fix
264. Roughage
265. Midday
267. Padlock clasp
Foenander
Piano Wizard
■ Songs, Stories and 88 Notes is the new show for the piano wizard Andrew Farrell
This one-of-a-kind gig blends iconic songs, wild piano wizardry, and engaging storytelling from the master pianist. Sunday, July 28. 3pm- 5pm.
The Shed Theatre at The Pig & Whistle Main Ridge. Tickets at trybooking.com
Hold Me Now
■ Gippsland based Alt-Country duo Ally Row are riding high. After achieving ABC Country high rotation, CMT Airplay, Apple Music editorial playlisting as well as Double and Triple J success, their new single indie folk anthem Hold Me Now is out everywhere.
This sweet, spirited single takes a step back from the duo’s moody upbeat catalogue, exploring a slower heartfelt meditation on love, vulnerability and the need for human connection, says their media release.
Bobby Valentine
■ We’re Riding with The Kings is back by popular demand at the Memo Music Hall, St Kilda, on Saturday, September 20. It’s a celebration of the 25th anniversary of Riding with the King iconic blues crossover album and the collaboration of two giants of the blues world, Eric Clapton and BB King.
Bobby Valentine will channel the spirit of BB King, Andy McGarvie is Clapton, and an A-list of musicians will relive the albums timeless songs. Tickets at Trybooking. com - Rob Foenander
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
Bloomshed’s Pride and Prejudice
■ Bloomshed returns to Darebin with a bold new take on Jane Austen’s classic PrideandPrejudice from July 30 to August 10 at the Darebin Arts Centre, Preston. Bringing their signature wit to the depths of the housing crisis, this raucous production flips the table on the Bennet sisters’ quest for love and security through a mercenary marriage.
In the plush ballrooms of high society, Mrs Bennet sees too well the value of a strategic union.
But her five daughters all have ambitions of their own. With the cost of living rising, and Mr Bennet played by a potted monstera, how will the Bennet family hold onto their precarious position on the property ladder?
Bloomshed are one of Melbourne's leading independent theatre companies, known for vibrant adaptations that both celebrate and reframe the stories we think we know – from AnimalFarm to Paradise Lost, A Streetcar Named Desire and The ImportanceofBeingEarnest
With big design gestures and a powerhouse ensemble, Bloomshed shows are joyous experiences - hilarious, fast-paced and invigorating for audiences.
In PrideandPrejudice, they’re challenging themselves to tell one of the most iconic love stories of the Western canon, turning their critical eye to the politics of love, marriage and the property ladder.
After sell out seasons across Melbourne and countless Green Room Awards, Bloomshed are stepping up to the epic stage of Darebin Arts Centre for this large-
Crossword Solution No 11
scale production, highlighting the company’s growing reputation and offering wider audiences a chance to experience their work.
Co-creator James Jackson says:
"Playing with Austen’s original, with the Romantic Comedy, and with the form of reality television, we’re looking at the decay of 'Love' as a political category.
“How the institution of marriage emerges not as an artful expression of human passion, but as a calculated ritual of ownership.
“Can we redeem actual, radical, really existing 'love'? Can we separate property and marriage? And can the romantic comedy save us from social bankruptcy?’"
Performed by: Laura Aldous, Elizabeth Brennan, Syd Brisbane, James Jackson, James Malcher, Anna Louey and Lauren Swain Bloomshed is an award-winning group of Australian artists who create cutting edge political satire, energising classic texts with physical comedy and outrageous dance breaks.
Their radical re-imaginings mix big political ideas with entertaining and accessible storytelling.
Performance Details: July 30August 10 Wed - Sat 7.30pm; Sun 5pm
Venue: Darebin Arts Centre, 401 Bell Street, Preston arts.darebin.vic.gov.au/Programs-and-opportunities/Programs/Speakeasy-presentations/ Pride-and-Prejudice
Cabaret de Paris
■ In a tribute to the French caba-
ret scene Cabaret De Paris, created by Michael Boyd Productions, entertained an enthusiastic crowd at The Palms at Crown with the wonderful Rhonda Burchmore providing star power.
Promoted as a burlesque extravaganza, the show was a series of songs with Parisian or French themes, all either sung live by Burchmore or played from recordings, and which had dance routines set to them involving seven showgirls and two male dancers.
In addition, illusionist Michael Boyd (whose company produced the show) and the contortionist Veronica Waite each had two sets where they performed some amazing feats.
With Paris being the theme, the show impressed on a number of levels.
Front and centre was the powerful voice and stage presence of Burchmore . Every inch the professional, she delighted with her boldness and good-natured cheek when interacting with the audience who lapped it up.
Similarly, Waite was fascinating to watch as she got into some astonishing positions, weaving her body snake-like around a pole. Less so was Boyd as it was too easy to see how several of the illusions were created.
Of course, critical to the whole enterprise and dazzling with their display of movement and colour were the dancers.
Often the unsung heroes of cabaret, the nine of them ll displayed great skill and flair with a highlght being their performance of the Can Can.
The dancers were not listed individually in the programme, but collectively added a wow factor to the show.
The production team behind Cabaret De Paris did a great job of realising Boyd’s vision for the show. In particular, Matt Browning, the show’s rehearsal director, choreographer and dance captain, successfully fulfilled his central role in pulling it all together. Cabaret can be an acquired taste and not always to everyone’s liking. However, if it is to your liking then this is a show that will entertain and delight you. cabaretdeparis.com.au
Review by Peter Murphy
Lady Is A Tramp
■ LadyisaTrampwill be staged at Brighton Yacht Club at 8.30pm on Saturday, August 2.
Two of Australia’s most powerful voices join forces to pay homage to groundbreaking artists like Amy Winehouse, Aretha Franklin, Nina Simone, James Brown, Janis Joplin, Prince, Tina Turner and the Queen of Jazz - Ella Fitzgerald.
Join Karise and Greg as they put their own unique, tasty spins on theseunforgettable timeless classics.
Karise Eden - vocals, Greg Gould - vocals, Ben Cripps - bass, Jonathan Skovron- guitar / vocals, Marcus Ryan - drums, Jonathan Holmes - keys / vocals. www.ellasmusicclub.com
Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson
Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson
■ In the mid 1950s Dorothy Baker had left school and was working as a secretary in the city when she entered and won a talent quest.
This led to singing engagements at the various dance venues such as Ziegfeld's Ballroom in Hawthorn, the Orama in Footscray, and the Moonee Ponds Town Hall.
The Federal Hotel Association, which managed a group of hotels including The Menzies, The Federal and The Savoy Plaza, hired Dorothy to sing at their venues.
The Managing Director, Oliver Shawl, said to the young Dorothy : "Go home and learn some Vera Lynn songs."
Dorothy replied "Who's Vera Lynn?"
But she soon found out and had been singing the songs of Vera Lynn for over 50 years.
In those days, prior to television, Dorothy was singing at five different venues each night, seven days a week. It is remarkable, Dorothy has never had a singing lesson in her life - it has been a God given gift.
In 1957 Channel Seven were looking for television singers and Dorothy began singing on TheLateShow
In 1959, she was contracted to Channel Nine to appear on Graham Kennedy's InMelbourne Tonight
During her career, Dorothy performed in television shows such as TheDelo&DalyShow, TheBertNewtonShow,TheDonLaneShow and many more.
Dorothy appeared on CarolsbyCandelight on 3KZ in 1962 and the audience response to her signing White Christmas was so over-
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
Whatever Happened To ... Dorothy Baker
By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM
whelming that she agreed on the spot to sing an encore song - which was IBelieve. Has that ever happened before at Carols by Candlelight?
Dorothy had a hit song with I'm The Girl FromWolvertonMountainin 1962. In 1963 Dorothy went overseas for two years and worked in England, Germany, France and Italy
She toured with David Frost, Frankie Vaughan, Adam Faith and Gerry and The Pacemakers - to name a few. Her first single recording TryBeingNicetoMe was released in the UK on the Parlophone Label.
In the eighties, Dorothy was working on cruise liners for Sitmar and Flotta Lauro. She sang on many ships including the CastelFelice, Fairsky,FairSea,AchelleLauroand Angelina
"Go home and learn some Vera Lynn songs." Dorothy replied "Who's Vera Lynn?"
Lauro. Her husband Ron Webb, who played trumpet in the original Channel Nine orchestra, passed away in 1998.
Dorothy was the mother of two daughters Kerri and Lisa I just adored Dorothy Baker, she was a real professional and I loved hearing her sing the Vera Lynn songs. Sadly, Doorthy Baker passed away on March 13, 2020, at the start of the COVID epidemic and many of her friends and family could not attend the funeral.
Dorothy Baker was a wonderful singer and a dear friend. We miss her so much.
Kevin Trask Kevin can be heard on 3AWThe Time Tunnel - Remember WhenSundays at 10.10pm with Simon Owens and Andrew McLaren. And on 96.5 FM
That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon.
www.innerfm.org.au
SMOKESCREEN AT FORTYFIVEDOWNSTAIRS
■ Set some 50 years ago, Smokescreenis actually a contemporary play written by Christopher Samuel Carroll about the dissonance between human capacity for rationalisation and the resulting destructive outcomes.
Oil executive, Glen (Carroll) and advertising guru, Bud (Damon Baudin) meet in an airport lounge to discuss ways around the impending crisis facing the oil industry – global warming.
Bud’s experience in the tobacco industry makes him the perfect foil justifying, as he has, the continued marketing of what can only be described as a symbol of success, the cigarette, given it serves no other purpose but remains cancerous.
Can the oil industry justify its own existence given the cataclysmic potential of climate change?
The work is dialectic in nature pursuing arguments rather than following the arc of a character’s development or the narrative of a story.
Set with the two at either end of a table, the emphasis is on substance and the reasoning behind the justification of their respective industries.
Both performers sustain their characters amidst the weight of the dialogue, there being little relief dramatically but for the changing of positions by the end of the play. The power dynamic has altered.
Whilst Carroll has identified the fatal flaw in both industries and within the human condition that leads to denial, the play’s initial overture in addressing the tobacco industry is familiar.
The sense that the oil industry knew of the impending crisis correlates well with how tobacco executives behaved.
There is, perhaps, a coda possible, however. The emphasis placed on individual freedoms and choice speaks to a crisis in current day politics where short term decisions compromise the collective good.
One only has to think of the threat Covid posed and how selfishly many behaved because it was their individual right – an attitude that Carroll identified in how the tobacco and oil industries have justified themselves.
The Kraken of their logic has been lost on the world.
Performed at fortyfivedownstairs, 45 Flinders Lane.
Review by David McLean
Love, Love, Love
■ Families are rarely without drama, but in English playwright Mike Bartlett’s Love, Love, Love, the drama runs so deep it borders on tragic.
The play explores, among other things, whether adult children can reasonably blame their parents for their lack of direction or unfulfilled potential.
The story follows two idealistic Oxford students who meet in 1967, charting the disintegration of their youthful ideals and relationships. Across two subsequent acts, set in 1990 and 2011, those once-hopeful visions unravel into a fractured, selfserving version of adulthood that leaves a bitter legacy for their children.
Genya Mik is outstanding as Sandra. While she is never likeable— and nor are any of the characters really—Mik brings compelling energy and precision to the role.
In 1967, Sandra’s wide-eyed idealism is almost charming. By 1990, she’s become a whirlwind of wineinfused selfishness and dysfunction, by 2011, her indifference to the consequences of her choices is genuinely unsettling.
Blake Stringer is steady as Kenneth, who remains somewhat subdued next to Sandra’s volatility. He successfully anchors Kenneth
through each chapter—from charismatic youth to disengaged middle age.
Julie Ahearne is superb as the teenage Rose, capturing adolescent disdain through tone, posture, and perfectly timed eyerolls. As the blame-shifting adult in 2011, she delivers a compelling and unsettling portrayal of entitlement.
Jerome Pollard’s performance as Jamie brings nuance to a scarred character.
Director George Werther has orchestrated a cohesive and engaging production, with set design (Mary Werther) and lighting ( Tamsin Mackie), working together to create a strong sense of time and place.
Love,Love,Loveis sharp and uncomfortable—challenging audiences to consider the long shadow cast by a generation once intent on changing the world, but who may have only rearranged it to suit themselves.
Presented by Heidelberg Theatre Company.
Performance dates: until July 19
Venue: Heidelberg Theatre , 36 Turnham Avenue, Rosanna Cost: $23 - $28 Bookings: https://auhtc.sales. ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/ 142820 Review by Beth Klein
■ Connie Francis, now aged 87, has been described as the quintessential American singer during the 1950s. One of her many chart toppers was PrettyLittleBaby which more recently made a comeback on Tik Tok , some 75 years later. Connie still performs but had to cancel a July 4 guest appearance because of a re-occurring medical condition. Get well, Connie
Over and out
■ David Charvet , now 53, was once the hot young lifeguard in Baywatch who went onto bigger things in Hollywood, starring in MelrosePlace. In 2013, he turned his back on Tinsel Town to concentrate on a niche building company he founded constructing luxury homes and gymnasiums. Apart from his business interests David has time to spend with his two children and we're told a return to movies is not on.
Gig guide
■ For readers who plan which gigs to attend we have news on forthcoming Victorian dates featuring electronic rock musicians Boom, Crash Opera and The Models. Concerts commence late October, then various dates November and December. For details check gig guides. A t 79 years of age, Leo Sayer is still going strong. He has just announced a leg of his StillFeelLikeDancingtour includes Geelong. Details for his August 29 performance from Geelong Arts Centre.
Daylight robbery
■ Thieves broke into the home of Joe Camilleri of Black Sorrows, and stole nine of his prized, and very expensive guitars, as well as his passport, computers and household items. This is second time Joe has been robbed over recent years. The current theft is being investigated. Scheduled gigs for Joe and his band will still be performed.
Wimbledon winner
■ Strawberries are the outright winner at Wimbledon. First of all, strawbs are grown locally, sufficient for180,000 bowls. Each bowl costs two pounds seventy pence with cream (vegan free) and sugar optional extras. John O’Keefe
Dorothy Baker
● Connie Francis
● ● ● ● Damon Baudin and Christopher Samuel Carroll in Smokescreen. Photo: Nicholas Robertson
WEEKEND’S LOCAL FOOTBALL FINAL SCORES
Eastern
■ Eastern Football League. Division 1
Seniors. South Croydon 28.8 (116) d Doncaster East 14.10 (94). Balwyn 21.18 (144) d Mitcham 6.12 (48). Berwick 11.7 (73) d East Ringwood 8.19 (67). Blackburn 21.12 (138) d Noble Park 6.9 (45). Sunday, July 13: Vermont v Rowville.
Division 1 Seniors. Boronia 9.15 (69) d Beaconsfield 9.12 (66). Park Orchards 19.7 (121) d Mooroolbark 6.10 (46). Bayswater 14.11 (95) d Norwood 6.10 (46). North Ringwood 13.9 (87) d South Belgrave 11.10 (76). Bye: Montorse.
Division 2 Seniors. Heathmont 17.12 (114) d East Burwoosd 7.5 (47). Mulgrave 15.13 (103) d Surrey Park 9.11 (65). Wantirna South 15.9 (99) d Ringwood 11.5 (71). Templestowe 13.16 (94) d Lilydale 4.12 (36). Waverley Blues 12.9 981) d Croydon 4.10 (34).
Division 3 Seniors. Donvale 12.11 (83) d Fairpark 7.7 (49). Coldstream 14.9 (93) d Ferntree Gully 8.8 (56). Knox 10.12 (72) d Oakleigh District 9.16 (70). Scoresby 14.9 (93) d The Basin 7.6 (48). Silvan 12.9 (81) d
Upper Ferntree Gully 12.8 (80).
Division 4 Seniors. Croydon North MLOC 10.16 (76) d Warrandyte 7.7 (49). Bulleen Templestowe 26.18 (174) d Forest Hill 9.4 (58). Whitehorse Pioneers 13.9 (87) d Kilsyth 10.9 (69). Bye: Chirinside Park.
Essendon
■ Premier Division. Keilor 19.8 (122) d Aberfeldie 11.4 (70). Airport West 19.9 (123) d Greenvale 15.7 (97).
Division 1. Avondale Heights 13.19 987) d Moonee Valley 8.7 (55). Craigieburn 13.12 (90) d Taylors Lakes 8.11 (59). Hillside 13.12 (90) d Tullamarine 12.l7 (79). Oak Park 9.20 (134) d Roxburgh Park 4.7 (31). West Coburg 29.14 (188) d St Albans 6.6 (42).
Division 2. Coburg Districts 23.18 9156) d Burnside Heights 6.8 (44). Hadfield 10.14 (74) d Keilor Park 7.6 (48). Glenory 17.14 (116) d Northern Saints 5.10 (40). Rupertswood 15.16 (106) d Sunbury Kangaroos 9.10 (64). Westmeadows 16.15 (111) d East Sunbury 8.8 (56).
Latest News
210 arrested
■ Police have made 210 arrests in a threemonth long drug detection operation encompassing Dandenong, Noble Park and Springvale CBDs. Among those arrested include alleged drug dealers who police will allege were trafficking substances including heroin and methylamphetamine.
Local police have a strong focus on those peddling drugs on local streets, with the latest crime data showing drug trafficking offences rose by almost 110 per cent in Springvale in the year to end of March. This crackdown has continued in recent months, with police from the Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Policing Unit, officers from Springvale, Dandenong and the Greater Dandenong Divisional Response Unit, Transit Safety Division – with assistance from the Dog Squad, the Public Order Response Team, and Mounted Branch – targeting those trafficking, dealing and possessing illicit substances.
Arrests of note include:
■ On April 23, a 22-year-old man was allegedly found with heroin in Springvale. He was charged with possessing a drug of dependence and was granted bail.
■ On May 9, a 39-year-old man was arrested in Dandenong and charged with trafficking Methylamphetamine. He was granted bail.
■ On May 15, a 21-year-old woman was spoken to by police in Noble Park, before they uncovered quantities of methylamphetamine, GHB and cannabis, as well as a knife in her pocket/handbag. She was charged with possessing a drug of dependence and possessing a controlled weapon, and was granted bail.
■ On May 23, a 34-year-old man from Caulfield was arrested in Springvale, and was allegedly found in possession of cocaine. He was charged with trafficking a drug of dependence, and remanded in custody.
■ On 1 June 217, police arrested a 44-yearold man over the alleged possession of heroin in Springvale. He was charged and bailed.
One man was arrested 11 times during the three-month operation. The 54-year-old has been charged with possessing methyl-amphetamine, failing to answer bail, and eight counts of contravening bail conditions. He was remanded in custody.
All will face Dandenong Magistrates’ Court at later dates.
Some 114 penalty infringement notices and 45 cautions were issued to people for possessing small quantities of drugs, as well as contravening their bail conditions.
Police also provided referrals to local outreach services to support those experiencing homelessness, mental health or drug related issues.
While the focus of the operation cantered around drug offending, police also made several arrests relating to other crimes, including car theft, burglary, theft, assault, possess prohibited weapon, drive whilst suspended, criminal damage and handling stolen goods.
Similar operations will be undertaken in the future.
Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Policing Unit Sergeant James Frost said: “In Springvale alone in the past 12 months, we have seen double the amount of drug trafficking offences detected compared to the previous year.
“That is due to the tireless work of our members who are targeting those who choose to prey on vulnerable members of the community with a drug addiction.
“The number of alleged drug offenders who we came into contact with police declined towards the end of this operation, purely because they were aware of our ongoing presence in the area.
“It was enough to deter a lot of people from making the wrong decision twice.
“We will continue to be relentless in our efforts to reduce harm in our community that is caused directly and indirectly by illicit drugs.”
Trio charged
■ Police have charged three people after tracking an allegedly stolen vehicle across north-eastern Victoria and New South Wales on Wednesday (July 9).
Officers first spotted the Nissan Pulsar on Yale Court in North Shepparton about 8.30am.
With assistance from the Police Air Wing, the vehicle was followed through Shepparton, Echuca, Moama and Barma in New South Wales
.
The Air Wing located the vehicle in Nathalia and it is alleged several attempts to stop the vehicle were made in Shepparton and Mooroopna
The vehicle allegedly continued to drive erratically through Shepparton before it was dumped on McCracken St
Police located and arrested a 19-year-old Mooroopna man, 20-year-old Shepparton man and 18-year-old Shepparton woman following a short foot pursuit on Wilmot Rd.
The Shepparton woman has been charged with theft of motor vehicle and drug related offences and bailed to appear in Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on October 27.
The 19-year-old Mooroopna man was charged with:
■ Contravene bail conditions (6)
■ Aggravated intentionally exposure of police to risk by driving (2)
■ Theft of motor vehicle (2)
■ Commit indictable offence whilst on bail
■ Drive whilst disqualified
■ Reckless conduct endangering life
■ Refuse oral fluid test
He was remanded in custody and will appear at Shepparton Magistrates’ Court at a date to be determined.
The 20-year-old Shepparton man was charged with:
■ Obtain property by deception (13)
■ Theft of motor vehicle (7)
■ Commit indictable offence on bail (4)
■ Unlicensed driving (4)
■ Burglary (2)
■ Contravene bail conditions
■ Aggravated burglary (person present)
■ Reckless conduct endangering serious injury
■ Dangerous driving whilst pursued
Mornington
■ Mornington Peninsula Nepean Football Netball League. Division 2 Seniors. Chelsea 14.12 (96) d Bonbeach 9.9 963).
Somerville 11./11 (77) d Devon Meadows 10.10 (70). Frankston Bombers 18.13 (121) d Karingal 6.1 (37). Pearcedale 16.10 (106) d Hastings 7.23 (65). Rye 12.7 (79) d Crib Point 9.11 (65). Seaford 19.7 (131) d Tyabb 16.6 (104).
Division 2 Reserves. Bonbeach 9.14 (68) d Chelsea 5.3 (33). Somerville 22.18 (150) d Devon Meadows 2.0 (12). Frankston Bombers 26.19 (175) d Karingal 0.1 (1). Pearcedale 13.13 (91) d Hastings 09.2 (2). Rye 9.8 (62) d crib Point 7.7 (49). Seaford 20.14 (134) d Tyabb 2.4 (16).
Division 2 Under 19. Chelsea Editbvale 9.8 962) d Bonbeach 6.13 (49). Devon Meadows 8.5 (53) d Somerville 5.11 (41). Pearcedale 5.11 (41) d Langwarrin 2.5 (17). Rye 5.10 (40) d Crib Point 5.9 939). Seaford v Mornington Tyabb
Northern
■ Northern Football Netball League. Division 1 Seniors. Heidelberg 18.16 (124) d Montmorency 11.4 (70).
Division 1 Reserves. Heidelberg 15.13 (103) d Montmorency 5.6 (36).
Division 1 Under 19.5. Heidelberg 8.9 (57) d Montmorency 5.6 (36).
Division 2 Seniors. Northcote Park 9.7 (61) d Lower Plenty 7.11 (53). Whittlesea 13.11 (89) d Macelod 12.6 (78). Panton Hill 13.14 (92) d Watsonia 2.2 (14). Diamond Creek 16.14 (110) d Old Paradians 6.6 (42). St Mary’s 16.10 (106) d Thomastown 12.13 (85).
Division 2 Reserves. Northcote Park 13.9 (87) d Lower Plenty 9.5 (59). Diamond Creek 12.16 (88) d Old Paradians 2.3 (15). Panton Hill 13.7 (85) d Watsonia 5.11 (41). Whittlesea 8.10 (58) d Macleod 8.9 (57). St Mary’s 8.12 (60) d Thomastown 8.8 (56).
Division 2 Under 19.5. Lower Plenty 10.17 (77) d Heidelberg 6.6 (42). Whittlesea 26.11 (167) d Macleod 4.4 (28). North Heidelberg 12.10 (82) d Laurimar 6.6 (42). South Morang 14.16 (100) d Mernda 6.8 (44).
Division 3 Seniors. Laurimar 16.12 (108) d Epping 9.8 (62). Kilmore 10.9 (69) d Reservoir 8.6 (54). Kinglake 17.18 (120) d Old Eltham Collegians 7.2 (44). Ivanhoe 14.15 (99) d Mernda 15.3 (93). Heidelberg West 14.15 (99) d Lalor 8.14 (62).
Division 3 Reserves. Old Eltham Collegians 8.18 (66) d Kinglake 6.5 (41). Kilmore 18.19 (127) d Reservoir 2.0 (12). Laurimar 20.18 (138) d Epping 3.4 (22). Ivanhone 11.10 (76) d Mernda 9.7 (61). Heidelberg West 12.14 (86) d Lalor 1.5 (11).
Division 3 Under 19.5. Bundoora 17.18 (120) d Old Paradians 4.5 (29). Watsonia 11.12 (78) d Panton Hill 6.13 (49). Banyule 8.11 (59) d Kilmore 7.4 (46). Bye: Eltham.
Outer East
■ Outer East. Premier Division Seniors. Woori Yallock 13.13 (91) d Healesville 6.6 (42). Offoicer 12.12 (84) d Mt Evelyn 10.6 (66). Monbulk 9.9 (63) d Upwey Tecoma 9.8 (62). Wandin 18.19 (127) d Emerald 6.7 (43). Olinda Ferny Creek 19.17 (131) d Gembrook Cockatoo 9.4 (58). Premier Division Reserves. Woori Yallock 15.11 (101) d Healesville 6.6 (42). Upwey Tecoma 8.7 (55) d Monbulk 5.7 (37). Officer 8.6 (54) d Mt Evelyn 7.7 (49). Wandin 10.11 (71) d Emerald 7.4 (46). Gembrook Cockatoo 12.8 (80) d Olinda Ferny Creek 3.3 (21).
Division 1 Seniors. Yarra Glen 13.11 (89) d Yarra Junction 6.7 43). Belgrave 13.15 (93) d Pakenham 14.7 (91). Alexandra 24.11 (155) d Powelltown 6.3 (39). Warburton Millgrove 17.9 (111) d Seville 16.8 (104). Bye: Yea.
Division 1 Reserves. Pakenham 11.8 974) d Belgrave 4.11 (35). Seville 13.5 (83) d Warburton Millgrove 2.6 (18). Yarra Glen 12.5 (77) d Yarra Junction 4.6 (30). Alexandra 13.12 (90) d Powelltown 1.4 (10). Bye: Yea.
Premier Division Under 18 Boys. Healesvillde 10.12 (72) d Woori Yallock 4.2 (26). Upwey Tecoma 12.20 (92) d Monbulk 6.8 (44). Mt Evelyn 11.13 (79) d Officer 3.4 (22). Olinda Ferny Creek 12.18 (90) d Gembrook Cockatoo 1.8 (14). Bye: Wandin. Division 1 Under 18 Boys. Seville 24.22 (166) d Warburton Millgrove 0.3 (3). Alexandra 6.9 (45) d Yarra Glen 3.5 (23). Bye: Pakenham, Yea.
Women’s Division 1. Healesville 6.12 (48) d Woori Yallock 1.2 (8). Pakenham 6.3 (39) d Belgrave 3.6 (24). Mt Evelyn 16.15 (111) d Olinda Ferny Creek 1.0 (6). Bye: Upwey Tecoma.
Women’s Division 2. Warburtonj Wesburn 19.17 (131) d Seville 0.0 (0). Wandin 13.8 (86) d Emerald 0.0 (0). Yea 6.7 (43) d Thornton Eildon 3.4 (22).
Western
■ Division 1 Seniors. Spotswood 16.22 (118) d Newport 5.5 (35). Parkside 15.11 (101) d Sunshine 12.4 (76) Werribee Districts 21.14 (140) d Point Cook 3.7 (25). Hoppers Crossing 12.19 (91) d Altona 6.12 (48). Albion 25.15 (165) d Point Cook 8.5 (53). Yarraville Seddon Eagles 14.14 (98) d Caroline Springs 11.12 (78).
Division 2 Seniors. North Footscray 12.7 (79) d West Footscray 10.12 (72). Wyndhamvale 26.17 (173) d Sunshine Heights 7.4 (46). Braybrook 219.13 (127) d Albanvale 11.12 (78). Laverton Magpies 2.0 (12) d tarneit 0.0 (0). Suns 18.25 (133) d Western Rams 6.12 (48).
Goulburn Valley
■ Seniors. Mansfield 23.15 (153) d Shepparton United 10.10 (70). Seymour 14.10 (94) d Shepparton Swans 10.10 (70). Kyabram 25.27 (177) d Tatura 2.1 (13). Shepparton 19.15 (129) d Euroa 3.6 (24). Reserves. Mansfield 9.9 (63) d Tatura 3.3 (21). Seymour 6.9 945) d Shepparton Swans 3.10 (28). Kyabram 26.12 (168) d Tatura 0.0 (0). Shepparton 27.15 (177) d Euroa 0.3 (3). Under 18. Mansfield 9.10 (64) d Shepparton United 3.2 (20). Seymour 6.11 -41) d Shepparton Swans 5.5 (35). Kyabram d Tatura, by forfeit. Shepparton 9.9 (63) d Euroa 2.3 (15).
Kyabram District
■ Seniors. Lancaster 11.13 (79) d Murchison Toolamba 10.2 (62). Girgarre 17.13 (115) d Tallygaroopna 6.6 (42). Stanhope 16.12 (108) d Undera 9.13 (67). Shepparton East 21.11 (137) d Nagambie 8.8 956). Longwood 12.12 (84) d Rushworth 6.7 (43). Reserves. Murchison Toolamaba 15.16 (106) d Lancaste5r4 2.2 (14). Girgarre 8.8 (56) d Tallygaroopna 4.5 (29). Stamnhope 26.13 (169) d Undera 2.4 (16). Shepparton East 18.13 (121) d Nagambie 2.4 (16). Longwood 14.5 (89) d Rushworth 6.15 (51)./ Sunday: July 13: Violet Town v Avenel. Under 18. Murchison Toolamaba 15.6 (96) d Lancaster 4.4 (28). Nagambie 23.10 (148) d Shepparton East 2.4 (16). Tigers 18.25 (133) d Longwood 3.6 (24). Sunday, July 13: Violet Town v Tallygaroopna. Bye: Girgarre, Undera.
Riddell District
■ Seniors. Lancefield 14.15 (99) d Gisborne Giants 9.12 (66). Riddell 16.6 (102) d Kyneton 7.9 (51). Macedon 12.22 (94) d Melton South 9.6 (60). Woodend Hesket 18.13 (121) d Melton Centrals 7.6 (48). Wallan 18.12 (120) d Romsey 9.16 (70). Bye: Diggers Rest. Reserves. Gisborne Giants 6.4 (40) d Lancefield 3.4 (22). Riddell 13.8 (86) d Kyneton 4.5 (29). Macedon 6.6 (42) d Melton South 4.5 (29). Woodend Hesket 17.14 (116) d Melton Centrals 1.3 (9). Wallan 8.10 (58) d Romsey 6.5 (41).
VICTORY TO STAWELL’S AINSWORTH
■ Charlton’s long standing affiliation with the USA continued on Monday celebrating American Independence Day with a neat eight event card.
The We Salute Aussies Racing In America Pace over 1609 metres commenced the day with victory going to Stawell trainer/driver Jason Ainsworth with aptly sired 5Y0 American IdealRed Hot Rita gelding Optimal.
Raced by partner Natasha Raven, Optimal starting solo on the second line possied beautifully one/one as Coral Cays led from gate two. Easing three wide approaching the final bend as Better Blue Boys after racing parked from outside the front line strode past the pacemaker, Optimal raced clear in the straight to record a 3.2 metre margin in a 1-57.4 mile rate over Vincent Grange (gate three) which trailed the leader, with Better Blue Boys holding down third 1.9 metres back.
■ Birchip owner/trainer Gary Living loves his harness racing and 9Y0 Art Major-Stylish Jasper mare Stylish Gem notched up her 12th success when taking the 2100 metre Stars And Strips Pace.
With Jackie Barker in the sulky, Stylish Gem (gate two) settled three back in the moving line after James Garner went forward from near last to race exposed outside the local front runner Jilliby Tidalwave (gate three).
Gaining a three wide trail home in the last lap on the back of Resurgent Warrior (one/ three), Stylish Gem after angling five wide on straightening rushed home to prevail by 1.3 metres from James Garner which fought on bravely with Jilliby Tidalwave holding third a head away. The mile rate 1-58.1.
■ There would have been an extra spoonful of sugar in Smythes Creek part-owner/trainer Nathan Cahir’s coffee following the victory of 6Y0 Sweet Lou-Almihata mare Nothing Sweeter in the Thank You Ames Australasia Pace over 2100 metres.
With the state’s number one driver James Herbertson in the sulky, Nothing Sweeter unbackable at $1.10 led throughout from gate five to defy all challengers when accounting for Fair Chance (gate four) and Nevs Dream (one/two from gate six) in a mile rate of 1-59.4. The margins 4.2 by 5.8 metres.
■ The Thank You Dale McGrath CFO Ames Australasia Pace saw Kooreh co-trainers Shaun and Jason McNaulty successful with 4Y0 Restrepo-Begoodorbegoodatit mare Into The Harkness which greeted the judge giving ‘Herbie’ another winner on the program.
Raced by a large syndicate headed by the McNaulty Family Trust, along with HRV’s Tim O’Connor and form guru Darren Carroll plus a cast of many, Into The Harkness (gate four) quickly crossed stablemate Redbank Molly (gate three) to take up the running and rated well, coasted to the wire defeating a deathseating Presidentialchange by 5.7 metres which switched down to the sprint lane on turning. Local Hungry Hogarth was third 10.9 metres away off a three wide trail from four back in the running line. The mile rate 1-56.2.
■ Ninety year old Huntly Nonagenarian Bill White provided Pastor Stephen-Modern Pegasus filly Modern Hope raced by himself and 66-year-old son Ian to blow most punters out of the quaddie when paying odds of $45.00 (Fixed) and $26.00 (parimutual) when winning the USA Charlton Partnership Maiden Trotters Mobile over 1609 metres.
Driven by Ian, Modern Hope unplaced in 12 outings going into the race began safely from the extreme draw to slot into a one/one position outside polemarker Taken By Wine having her 43rd start.
Going forward in the last lap to join the leader when Littler (gate six) ahead of her galloped, Modern Hope showed plenty of tenacity from the home turn to register a 2.7 metre victory over Nedza Thriller (gate three second line - three wide home turn). Taken By Wine was third a half head away. The mile rate 2-03.5.
■ It was ‘Herbie’ again when Kyabram trainer Mark Watson’s She Is Lovely scored in the 2100 metre All American Maiden Pace and she certainly was as Mark is one of the mares owners. Beginning swiftly from gate five to park momentarily outside the poleline leader Sonora Sunset before gaining one/one cover at the expense of Theroux (gate two on the second line, She Is Lovely travelled sweetly before angling three wide into the home turn and finished her race off well to prevail by 4.2 metres from Sheez Slashing (one/two from gate five) recording a mile rate of 2-00.9. Sonora Sunset held third 1.2 metres back.
■ The Land Of The Free Trotters Handicap over 2100 metres went the way of Marong trainer David Van Ryn’s Yankee Spider-Ima
Harness Racing
len-baker@ bigpond.com
with Len Baker
Thrill Seeker 6Y0 gelding Alfie Always in a rate of 2-03.2. Starting from 20 metres, Alfie Always driven by Ellen Tormey began fast to go forward and take over the front running within a lap from 12Y0 mare Tension Seeker (barrier two) and after bowling along at his leisure, held too many guns for one of three 20 metre markers Knight Whisperer which had followed him forward only to be left exposed.
Although Knight Whisperer tried valiantly on turning, Alfie Always driven with supreme confidence held him at bay to register a neck margin. Romantic Nina (30 metres) ran on late from well back for third 7.8 metres back. The mile rate 2-03.2.
■ It’s very rare to see outstanding reinswoman Kerryn Manning successful on a long shot as most of her drives are normally in the betting, however 8Y0 Sportswriter-Molly Pitcher gelding The Sportz Star bred in the Goulburn Valley by Dean and Blanch Poole snared the 1609 metre Celebrating Independence Day Pace at bolters odds of $31.00 fixed and $35.80 on the parimutuel tote.
Raced by Kerryn, The Sportz Star after being trapped wide from outside the front line as local Yapper led from gate six for Mark Boyle, had no option but to go forward and race exposed before gaining a short breather prior to the bell after Dance Away (also wide from gate five) went forward to race in the open.
Easing wide in the home straight, The Sportz Star ran home stylishly showing a good turn of speed to score by Ruby Wingate (four pegs from gate five second line) which came from knowhere, with Yapper hanging on for third a neck away after looking the winner on turning. The mile rate 1-54.4.
■ On a day of several upsets, the quaddie was declared as a massive $14,738.70, however with percentage discounts the dividend paid $7215.86 from a pool of $9211.72.
The winners being Modern Hope, She Is Lovely, Alfie Always and The Sportz Star which on an all-up basis would have returned a dividend in excess of $108,181 keeping in mind that the dividends would have changed rapidly and the divvy would have been nothing like this.
7 races at Echuca
■ It was Echuca on Tuesday with seven races on the program and both James Harbertson and Kerryn Manning followed on from their Charlton wins the day before – Herbie with a double and Kez with a single victory.
Herbie’s double came courtesy of local partowner trainer Matthew Beecroft’s 8Y0 Four Starzzz Shark-Atalanta Jewel mare Four Starzzz Ruby in the Byfords Equipment Pace over 1755 metres and Arcadia trainer John McLean’s 4Y0 Ultimate Machete-Alleluia mare Princess Arna in the 2160 metre Super Clean Linen Service Maiden Pace with both horses leading throughout.
Four Starzzz Ruby (gate two) had little difficulty in crossing polemarker Stellar Queen before coasting to a 12.2 metre victory in a 200.7 mile rate over Stellar Queen, with Murial switching to the sprint lane from mid-field on turning for third a head away, while Princess Arna bred and raced by Julie Duffy after going forward three wide from gate three was able to cross Ima Tiggy Tiger (gate two) to take over running into the first turn and defeat Krakey (restrained from gate six) before going forward to race in the open before dropping to the back of the leader and receive an easy passage.
Angling outside the winner on the home turn, Krakey tried hard and was slightly in-
convenienced when Princess Arna shifted out in the straight going down by 1.5 metres firing in an unsuccessful protest. Red Robber (gate four came from midfield for third 15.1 metres back) The mile rate 2-01.2.
■ Kerryn had an armchair drive aboard father Peter’s Sweet Lou-Torque Of Life 3Y0 gelding Torque Power in the Moama Bowling Club Pace Final over 1755 metres.
Spearing away from gate four to lead, Torque Power was never in any danger, scoring by 3.2 metres in advance of Karuma Kev which trailed from the pole and High Flux which was strong after racing three wide solo from the bell finishing 3 metres back. The mile rate 158.8.
■ Former Diamond/Yarra Valley and Sunraysia trainer Brian Crossland now based at Kialla provided a shock result in the 1755 metre Alabar Bloodstock Pace when 9Y0 Bgs FollySuffolk Star stallion Bee Gee Cee at odds of $41.00 greeted the judge.
With Cameron Maggs in the sulky, Bee Gee Cee was given a sweet passage three back in the running line from gate three as polemarker With In Reason led before being crossed at the bell by Dieing Fear which had raced outside him enabling Bee Gee Cee to work a spot closer now one/one.
Angling wide on turning, Bee Gee Cee ran on best to gain the day by a neck in a mile rate of 1-58.3 from Fear The Power which had trailed With In Reason from inside the second line and using the sprint lane, with With In Reason third 2.3 metres away, It was Bee Gee Cee’s seventh success in 77 outings.
■ Cobram trainer Adam Rudd combined with Tasmyn Potter to land the Llowalong Farms Pace over 2160 metres with Hes Watching-Bliss 6Y0 gelding Elated who was another to lead all of the way, accounting for Interpretation which trailed after an unsuccessful crack for the lead from outside the front line, going down by 2.9 metres in a 1-58.9 mile rate. Owen The Saints (one/one) was third 18.1 metres away.
■ Local Echuca part-owner/trainer Wayne Lear went home on a happy note after 8Y0 Mach Three-Vertigal mare Wheres Wood Wood driven by Abbey Turnbull led throughout from gate four in the 2160 metre Kyabram Tyre & Battery Pace, easily accounting for a deathseating Cobalt Blues which raced outside her from outside the front line. Beryls Boots (one/ one from gate two) used the sprint lane for third 10.8 metres away.
At Bendigo
■ The regular Bendigo fixture was Wednesday’s fixture and a good night was had by Henty (NSW) owner/trainer Brooke McPherson after landing a stable double – 3Y0 Always B Miki-Shadesoff gelding Shades Of Miki taking the 1650 metre Stonemans Village IGA & Liquor Strathdale Pace and Art MajorTact Hayleys Delight filly Major Hayley the Alabar Bloodstock 3Y0 Maiden Pace over the same trip, both handled to perfection by Murchison East reinsman Ryan Sanderson.
Shades Om Miki (gate two second line) ran home from four back in the moving line to register a 2.5 metre margin in 1-54.1 over local hope Mister Jimaringle (three wide to outside the pacemaker Muselet (gate five) from the extreme draw).
Celestial Zodiac (one/four) from inside the second line was third 6.1 metres back. Major Hayley led out from the pole before taking a trail behind Stay Alpha (gate three). Using the sprint lane, Major Hayley dashed home to record a 1.6 metre margin in advance of Kutani which raced uncovered from gate two, with Catherine (gate five one/one) third a head away. The mile rate 1-57.3.
■ Daylesford’s Mick Barby (trainer) and AnneMaree Conroy (driver) landed the 1650 metre Prydes Easifeed Trotters Mobile with more than handy 7Y0 Love You-Valerie mare Amour Maternal.
Raced by the pair, Amour Maternal was restrained at the start from gate five to settle four back in the running line as Myheartbeatstrue (gate six) led. Going forward in the last lap, Amour Maternal sustained a long run to gain the day by 4.3 metres from Ox Knox which went forward from the extreme draw to race exposed at the bell. Mielicki (three pegs from inside the second line) was third 1.6 metres back. The mile rate 1-59.5.
■ Eighty two year old Havelock (Maryborough) owner/trainer Derick Kraft has enjoyed a great season with his 5Y0 Betting Line-The Majors Daughter gelding Kimchi who notched up his 7th success in 80 outings
when taking the Vale Stephenie Moody Pace over 1650 metres. Driven by Kerryn Manning, Kimchi was given an easy time one/one from inside the second line by Kerryn Manning as speedy mare Noble Julia led from gate four. Angling three wide approaching the final bend to follow Alcatraz Girl one/two, Kimchi ran on best to prevail by a half neck from The Majors Girl (one/three from inside the second line), with Alcatraz Girl third a neck away in a fighting finish. The mile rate 1-59.
Thursday call
■ Ballarat was Thursday’s fixture with some rough results throughout the night. Dunnstown trainer/driver David Murphy snared the Ballarattrottingclub.com.au Pace over 2200 metres with 4Y0 Always B Miki-Young Jane mare Janiebquick paying odds of $32.70. fixed and $26.00 parimutual.
Driving through from inside the second line to trail the poleline leader Bon Viveur, Janiebquick gained an inside passage halfway up the running to score by 3 metres from Shotinthedark off a three wide trail home from five back in the moving line. Where Is Woody (gate 3 – outside the leader – one/one – four wide home turn) was third 10.4 metres away. The rate 1-58.8.
■ Kolora owner/trainer Barry Beasley combined with Mick Bellman aboard 4Y0 Always B Miki-Lady Blanchet gelding Pretty Basic in the Interpath 4Y0 & Older Maiden Pace over 2200 metres.
Raced by former HRV Board member Geoff Senior and son John, Pretty Basic at odds of $33.90 parimutual but only $23 fixed settled three pegs from gate four, angling three wide on the final bend to defeat the first start pacemaker Jilliby Moon (gate five) which led by 2.3 metres in a mile rate of two minutes even. Im The Wild One after trailing the winner from gate two and easing off the markers on the home turn was third a half neck away.
■ Arcadia South trainer Jamie Egan’s 6Y0 Majestic Son-Aldebaran Etta mare Faith Full was a deserved victor of the Radio Ballarat Trotters Mobile over 1710 metres.
Raced by Jamie and partner Bec Dudley, Faith Full driven by James Herbertson had to spend petrol from outside the front line to move outside the leader Double Dot (gate four) before taking over with a circuit to travel. Travelling kindly, Faith Full won easily by 12.9 metres in a rate of 2-00.3. from Double Dot and Aldebaran Maverick (three pegs from gate two) was third 3.3 metres away.
■ Cranbourne part-owner/trainer/driver Phillip Ellery was successful with Kiwi bred 6Y0 Skyvalley-Hiona Mountain gelding Rarity Rock in the 2200 metre Coca Cola Trotters Mobile. Lobbing one/one from gate two on the second line as Ikara (gate six) led, Rarity Rock enjoyed a charmed passage and after joining a death-seating Scar on the home turn which had taken care of the leader, ran on best to gain the day by 3 metres. Scar galloped at the finish and was relegated to third with Noble Count promoted to second after trailing the leader from gate two 1.5 metres back. The rate 2-02.9.
Phillip drives the mobile gate at most Cranbourne meetings and Melton and other tracks at times.
■ Bolinda’s Alison and Chris Alford landed the VSTA Trotters Cup (3rd Heat) over 2200 metres with Link In Bio, a four year old Slyvalley-Starcus mare.
Beginning swiftly from 10 metres to lead, Link In Bio rated a treat greeted the judge 3.3 metres clear of a death-seating Buslin Brody (barrier three). Above The Law (10m) was 2.4 metres back after trailing the winner. The mile rate 2-04.1.
Len Baker
REVISED SCHEDULE FOR 2025-26
■ The season will comprise 530 meetings made up of 106 metropolitan, 368 country, 17 country non-TAB and 33 picnic meetings.
Racing will occur on 348 days with 17 free race days-the same as the current season.
This includes a strategic reduction of 18 race meetings from December 2025 to May 2026 to improve field sizes and wagering outcomes during a contested period with more night and event meeting prevalent.
Decisions on the reallocation of prizemoney from these meetings will be made in consultation with theabove shareholders apart of the annual prizemoney process.
A total of 51 night meetings are scheduled one less that 2024-25, with Thursday night racing to conclude a month earlier, at the end of April 20226, to assist participant workloads, Friday night racing will continue through May 2026 prior to its Winter recess; and a total of 26 synthetic meetings are scheduled, one less than 2024-25, while the number of twilight fixtures increases by one to 17 with the addition of New Years’ Eve at Flemington
Relocated meetings
■ With the Valley closed for over 18 months for its redevelopment , the MVRC’s meetings from November 2025 to July 2026 will be run at the following venues as a mix of metropolitan and country fixtures.
Southside Racing will host 11 meetings and assume the mantle as the home of night racing.
Cranbourne - eight Friday meetingd and the Saturday metropolitan meeting on December 27, 2025, and Sportsbet Pakenham - two Friday night meetings (Derby Eve and Champions Stakes Eve).
Geelong - two Wednesday twilights and two Friday afternoon meetings, Caulfield - the Group One William Reid Stakes meeting on Saturday March 21, 2026
A decision on the location of the 2026 Ladbrokes Cox Plate – which falls within the 2026-27 race dates – is expected to be made soon
The allocation of MVRC’s Saturday metropolitan meeting to Cranbourne means the track will host one less Saturday night other than 2024-25 with meetings programmed on January 3,10, and 17, 2026.
Subject to final approvals, Bendigo will undergo a major tack upgrade following their October 29 Cup meeting.
They will return to racing to March 27, 2026, with a five month hiatus.
Subject to final approvals, Benalla will undergo a major track upgrade following their September 26 Cup meeting and will be offline for the remainder of the 2025-26 season.
Golden Rose
■ I felt it was time to have a relook at the Golden Rose to be run and won in Sydney coming up in a while.
Punters are taking a good look at the young gallopers as they venture on.
Punters are sticking with the smart youngster, Nepotism, who backin April looked good winning good style in the Champagne Stakes, over 1600 metres at his second outing.
He’s a nice type of horse, being by Brutal winning his second race in three starts for the
Ted Ryan
Hawkes team. The next we will have a look at it another nice type is Autumn Boy, by Autumn Sun, a smart one in his day. He only had a few starts and was all class. He won the Caulfield Guineas in great fash-
ion. There is another smart youngster in Beadman, named after the champion jockey, Darren, who took all before him.
He won the Ken Russell Memorial Classic over 1200 metres at the Gold Coast in easy fashion.
Then we had the early Golden Slipper favoUrite, Wodeton, but who was found wanting in the run there.
But he is in a strong camp with Waller and you can’t leave him out.
Then we have the Golden Slipper winner, Marhoona, who won the big one in style, back in March.
Prepared by former Melbourne trainer, Michael Freedman, Marhoona won well and will be right in this but, like a few of the others will need the run.
Next is the Kris Lees trained colt,Rivellino, who put three together inwinning the Skyline Stakes at Randwick, on April 19.
He is by the leading
Another that is
Having his third start in the
won in terrific fashion to make it three on end.
He is by the top stallion, I Am nvincible , and could go right on from here.
Another that impressed was the Hawkes team, right on the ball with their charge, Devil Night, when it won the coveted Blue Diamond Stakes at Caulfield on February 22.
One of the Ciaron Maher team has ability and was a bit unlucky not to have run a place in the Champagne Stakes at Randwick back on April 19.
It is another of the Wootton Bassett team to grace the turf and has ability.
Ciaron is quite happy with the way the colt is racing at present.
Tempted is nicely bred being by the top sire, Street Boss,who has bred many a top class winner.
Last but not least is another smart youngster,with plenty of zip in Within The Law.
Trained by Bjorn Baker, he is spot on at present.
Ted Ryan
● ● Wayne Hawkes. Racing Photos.
sire, Too Darn Hot,and is smart.
top shelf is Vin Rock, the galloper, trained in Victoria by Matt Laurie
Inglis Sires, he
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Retailer fined $961,550
■ Energy retailer Pacific Blue Retail Pty Ltd which trades as Tango Energy and Pacific Blue Retail, has paid $961,550 for allegedly breaching Victorian energy rules related to guaranteed service level payments. Victorian energy distributors are required to make guaranteed service level payments to customers who receive a level of service worse than a specific threshold or level. Where a distributor makes a guaranteed service level payment, the energy retailer must apply the credit to the customer’s account within 10 business days. The Essential Services Commission alleged that between September 2021 and December 2024, Pacific Blue failed to credit 8131 guaranteed service level payments to 6376 customers within 10 business days.
■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating after two people died in a collision at Templestowe on Monday morning, July 7. Emergency services were called to reports of a multi-vehicle collision on Fitzsimons Lane about 9.25am.
It is understood a silver SUV was travelling northbound when it veered onto the wrong side of the road and collided headon with a small hatchback. Both occupants of the hatchback died at the scene.
The driver of the SUV, a 54-year-old Balwyn North woman, was taken to hospital with minor injuries under police guard.
A grey compact SUV was also struck following the initial collision. The occupants of that car were uninjured.
Exact circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be determined and investigations remain ongoing.
RSL suspension
■ The Kew RSL Sub-Bramnch has been suspended, accused of failing to meet charitable objectives and not complying with regulatory obligations.
RSL Victoria President Des Callaghan said the 12-month suspension occurred after incomplete and unsatisfactory responses after two years of warnings.
Stolen car chase
■ Police have charged a man following a crash in an allegedly stolen vehicle in Ashburton on tuesday night, July 8.
The allegedly stolen silver MG station wagon was spotted on Wellington Rd in Mulgrave about 10.15pm.
Officers attempted to intercept the MG, before the driver allegedly refused to pull over and took off at speed.
It is alleged that the MG was then seen speeding near the intersection of Blackburn Rd and Monash Freeway in Glen Waverley about 10.20pm.
The Air Wing was called in and spotted the vehicle travelling citybound on the freeway, reaching alleged speeds of 170-kmh.
The MG was allegedly seen driving erratically and at speed through Chadstone and Ashwood.
The vehicle travelled through Ashburton, before officers successfully deployed stop sticks on Warrigal Rd
The MG allegedly continued to drive before crashing into a fence on Gloucester Rd and being dumped by the driver. There were no injuries.
Police moved in and arrested a man, allegedly running from the car on High Street Rd
Investigators allege that the MG was stolen from a Boronia address.
A 31-year-old man was charged with reckless conduct endangering serious injury, theft of a motor vehicle and a string of driving offences.
He was bailed to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on September 25.
$1 million win
■ An Oakleigh man nearly fell off his chair when he spotted his lottery numbers played faithfully for 40 years, printed in the newspaper, revealing a $1 million Weekday Windfall win.
The man held the only Division One winning entry in Weekday Windfall draw 4568, drawn Friday, July 4.
When asked how he planned to enjoy his new millionaire status, the long-time player revealed he was upgrading his family holiday to a first-class experience. His winning marked four -game entry was purchased at East Boundary Road Lotto, 1/251 East Boundary Rd, Bentleigh East.
Badge effort
■ Design Technology students from Templestowe College used their creativity and 3D printing skills to support Eastern Palliative Care, designing and printing over 400 custom badges for their volunteers.
● The Eastern Suburbs Edition of The Local Paper covers the municipalities of Boroonadra (north), Knox, Manningham, Maroondah, Monash and Whitehorse. Digital issues are weekly, print issues are fortnightly.
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BED. Single. Electric folable with massage and remote control. Adjustable back, legs and height. New Aspire mattress. German motor. EC. $500. Diamond Creek. 0401 473 565.N-Q
BED HEAD. Wooden. And base. With slats. As new. $80. Whittlesea. 0494 380 264. Z-CC
BIKE. Ladies. Make: Friction Huffey. Purple. Plus helmet, basket and pump. VGC. $110. Pakenham. 5940 5018. R-U
CARAVAN. E20½ ft reegal 2009 Aussie Tourer Caravan. Full ensuite with separate shower, queen bed and AC/heater, TV, stereo, gas cooktop, microwave, comes with cover and large outdoor mat. EC. $32,000. Taggerty. 0438 782 112. R-U
CARAVAN. 21’6” 2014 Crusader. Reg till Feb. 2026. Full ensuite, separate shower/toilet, queen bed, a/c heater, TV radio, Gas/Elec. cooktop, micro washing machine, solar panel, large fridge, freezer, new tyres and batteries. many extras. EC. $40,000 ONO. Mount Eliza. 0429 877 964. Z-CC
COLLECTORS Melway Nos 9, 20, 33. Wax matches (234) in book, 17 loose. VFL Records, finals, mainly Richmond. Small and large. Phone cards. Vatious prices. Box Hill South., 9890 7904.N-Q
CRIME FICTION BOOKS. Various authors. Harlen Coben, James Patterson plus others. GC. $2, or 3 for $5. Mill Park. 052 665 276. H-O
DOG KENNEL. Plastic. Grey colour. Very clean. never used as kennel. GC. $10. Purchaser to collect. Doreen. 9717 3465. N-Q
EDISON STANDARD PHONOGRAM Serial Nuimber 638427. October 1905 with five Edison goldmoulded records complete with reproducing trumpet model C. Rare antqiue, working well. VGC. $1850. Glen Iris. 0407 276 973. Z-CC
ENCYCLOPEDIA. Complete set A-Z. GC. $50. Frankston. 9789 9634. Z-CC
FORD AUII Fairport V8 Sedan. Original.Runs well. No rust. Good tyres, new screen, bring your mechanic or RACV test, RWC. Reg 7/27. 2AN3XE. VCG. $8000. Seymour. 0419 881 573. N-Q
INVERTER-GENERATOR. 2200-watt. 91 octane 4-stroke petrol motor, single phase, 240 volts, 50 hertz output, little used. GC. $95. Doreen. 9717 3465. R-U
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Divorce Notice
I, Chunbin Wang, filed for divorce from Xiaomin Hu on 12 March 2025.
Hearing details: File No.: BRC3073/2025
Filed at: Brisbane Presiding Officer: Deputy Registrar Moore
Hearing Type: No Attendance (In Absence)
Date: Wednesday, 23 July 2025
Time: 8:30 AM
If Ms. Hu sees this notice, please contact my lawyer Sylvia (LMP Immigration)
Email: sh@lmpi.com.au Phone: +61 02 9086 9186
JAYCO 2004 Freedom Caravan, single beds, RC/ AC, new tyres, unused porta potti, m’wave, 3 way bridge, gas & elec. cooktop and grill, 240/12 volt TV. Aerial. Reg till Jan. 26. Everything in working order. 1150kg. Tows great. VGTC. Hastings. 0409 645 059. Z-CC
LAURA ASHLEY Cotton Queen Coverlet set. Size 220cm x 240cm, plus 2 pillowcases. Pale blue with thin white stripes. Never used. EC. $30. Ashburton. 9885 2203. Z-CC
MAGAZINES. Collectors. New Idea, Woman’s Day, Stellar, Body and Soul, House magazine and many others. GC. Price nego- tiable. West Preston. 0416 576 660. R-U
MAGAZINES. Purnells History of WWII, Australian Geographic, Choice, Burke’s Backyard, Organic Gardener, Gardening Australia, Vegi Patch and some odd ones. GC. 50c each. Reservoir. 0421 131 681. Z-CC
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Packaged Liquor Licence Application
We YUYAN PTY LTD applied to Liquor Control Victoria on 24th June 2025 for the grant of a packaged liquor licence at Fortune Asian Supermarket, Shop W041, Northland Shopping Centre, 2 - 50 Murray Road, Preston, VIC 3072.
Any person may object to the grant of this application on the grounds that:
• It would detract from, or be detrimental to, the amenity of the area in which the premises are situated, and/or
• It would be conducive to or encourage the misuse or abuse of alcohol.
An objection must state the reasons for the objection.
All objections are treated as public documents.
Objections must be made in writing to: Liquor Control Victoria PO Box 1019 Richmond VIC 3121
Objections must be made no later than 30 days after the date of this notice.
PRESSURE WASHER. Karcher. Good working order. little used. Complete with operating instructions. Purchaser to collect. GC. $55. Doreen. 9717 3465 Z-CC
NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION DETAILS
Application reference number: P25/0803
Applicant name: NEPEAN PLANNING CONSULTANTS
The Land affected by this application is located at:
1 MARVIN AVENUE RYE Lot 32 on Plan of Subdivision 030579 VOL 10852 FOL 565
The application is for a permit to: VARY RESTRICTIVE COVENANT CREATED IN TRANSFER NO. A208723 AFFECTING CERTIFICATE OF TITLE VOLUME 10852 FOLIO 565 BY VARYING THE RESTRICTION WORDING FROM: “ANY BUILDING WHICH SHALL NOT BE SET BACK AT LEAST FORTY FEET FROM THE STREET ALIGNMENT OF SUCH LAND” TO: “ANY BUILDING WHICH SHALL NOT BE SET BACK AT LEAST 7.5 METRES FROM THE FRONT TITLE BOUNDARY”
A permit is required under the following clauses of the planning scheme: MATTER FOR WHICH A PERMIT IS REQUIRED PLANNING SCHEME CLAUSE
Clause 52.02 (Easements, Restrictions and Reserves)
Under section 23 of the Subdivision Act 1988, to vary a restriction.
The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 9 JULY 2025
How can I find out more?
You may look at the application and any documents that support the application free of charge at: www.mornpen.vic.gov.au You may also call (03) 5950 1010 to arrange a time to look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council. This can be done during office hours and is free of charge.
Privacy Notification: The personal information provided in an objection is collected for planning purposes in accordance with the Planning & Environment Act 1987 (the Act). The public may view an objection in accordance with Section 57 of the Act whilst the planning application is current
SAWS. 5 vintage saws for woodwork. FC. $15. Also frame for manual sharpening, GC. $8. Ashburton. 9885 2203.Z-CC
REAR SPOILER for VE Holden Commodore Sedan. EC. Best Offer. Mornington. 5975 3609. Z-CC
HEDGE TRIMMER. Honda. HHH25D. 4 stroke. With hour meter fitted. VGC. Bought in Feb. 2022. Has done 20.8 hours. $650 ONO. Pearcedale. 0418 457 588.
WHEELS IN VICTORIA Rare 528 page volume, registered 1518 by Harold H. Paynting. History of Wheelecd Transport 1824 to 1984, mint condition in hard cover sleeve. EC. $400. Glen Iris. 0407 276 973. Z-CC
PLUMBING FITTINGS. 1 box PVC 100m Sew/SW, Elbows 45°. As new. $35. Z-CC
