The Local Paper. Eastern Suburbs Edition. Wed., Nov. 19, 2025
■ Cr Stuart James has been elected as Mayor of Monash City Council for 2025-26, with Cr Elisha Lee to serve as Deputy Mayor.
Cr James thanked his colleagues for their trust and outlined plans for the year ahead.
“We have a big year ahead,” Cr James said.
“We’ll be navigating major planning reforms, awarding the tender for our Glen Waverley library and civic centre, planning a major upgrade of Monash Aquatics and Recreation Centre and continuing our advocacy to ensure the Suburban Rail Loop delivers real benefits for our community.
“Sustainability will be a central focus for my Mayoral term. As a council we have a responsibility to lead by example by reducing our environmental footprint, transitioning to a circular economy and helping our community adapt to a changing climate,” Cr James said.
Cr James thanked Cr Paul Klisaris and Cr Brian Little for their leadership as Mayor and Deputy Mayor during the previous year.
Cr James was elected to represent Oakleigh Ward in 2016 and now represents Warrigal Ward following changes to ward boundaries in 2024.
He is a long-term Oakleigh resident, an IT professional, Deputy President of the Municipal Association of Victoria and a Board member of the Australian Local Government Association and the Alliance for Gambling Reform. He has previously served as Mayor in 2019–20 and 2021–22.
Cr Lee epresents Jells Ward
■ Manningham Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating after two 13-year-old boys were injured and had their electric motorcycles stolen in East Doncaster
Investigators have been told the pair were riding along Koonung Creek Trail when they were approached by two unknown males shortly after 5pm on Monday, November 10.
The offenders assaulted one of the boys and stole his motorcycle.
He fled on foot and received minor injuries that did not requirement medical treatment.
The second boy fled on his motorcycle before crashing into a wall and sustaining serious injuries near the Blackburn Rd underpass.
The offenders caught up with the victim, failing to render assistance, and stole his motorcycle.
The offenders fled on both motorcycles, east along the trail.
The first offender is described as Caucasian, approximately 15 years old, 165cm tall and was wearing a black ski mask, black hooded jumper and black trackpants.
The second offender is described as Caucasian, approximately 15 years old, 165cm tall with black hair and was wearing a black ski mask, multi-coloured BAPE hooded jumper and black trackpants.
Investigators have released an image
and
● ● ● ●
Crs Elisha Lee and Stuart James
Manningham Carols returns
● ● Santa Claus and Lucy Durack
■ Manningham’s Carols by Candlelight returns on Friday, December 12, bringing festive cheer to Ruffey Lake Park in East Doncaster.
The event is cdescribed as a magical evening of live music, entertainment and food under the stars – capped off by a fireworks display.
This year’s event will be hosted by star performer Lucy Durack and local Carols favourite Richard Thomas. They will be joined on stage by a huge line up of local and national artists, with a special guest appearance by Santa Lucy Durack is one of Australia’s most well-known leading ladies, with major roles in productions including Wicked,Shrekthe Musical,LegallyBlondeand Midnightthe Musicalas well as TV series TheLetdown, Sisters,APerfectPairingand DoctorDoctor
She’s been a judge on Australia’s Got Talent and performed on The Masked Singer.
“I can’t wait to see you at Manningham Carols by Candlelight,” Lucy said. Richard Thomas has been entertaining audiences for more than 25 years. His musical theatre credits include Mame,Sweet Charity, Follies,TheSecretGarden,Les Miserables,Chicago,Rebecca,TheProducers,ThePhantomoftheOperaand Mary Poppins.
The evening’s events will start at 6 pm with pre-show entertainment on stage and activities for the kids. The main event kicks off at 7.15pm, ending with a fireworks display at 9.30pm.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic, or enjoy food from one of the food trucks on site.
This is a free, but ticketed event. Register online at manningham.vic.gov.au/carols to receive the latest event updates, including any changes due to extreme weather.
Yarra Valley Water offers help
■ Yarra Valley Water is encouraging customers who are struggling to reach out for support ahead of the holiday season.
National data shows that one-in-three Australians are feeling financial pressure, The water utility says that it offers a range of ways to ease the cost of water bills, including concessions, grants and flexible payment plans.
Yarra Valley Water General Manager Strategy and Community Tiffany White encouraged people experiencing financial difficulties to use the support available to them.
“We know that balancing finances during the holiday season can be a stressful experience for people who are already feeling the pressure,” she said.
“We want to show up for our customers and help where we can. That’s why we have a dedicated financial support team that can assist people in paying their water bills, with different options to suit individual circumstances.”
Households on low incomes may be eligible for utility relief grants worth up to $650 off bills over two years.
Last financial year, Yarra Valley Water supported more than 23,000 customers with utility relief grants and delivered over $54 million in concession discounts.
The organisation can arrange payment plans and extensions and connect customers with free financial counselling.
New Mayor for Whitehorse
■ Whitehorse City Council has announced the appointment of Cr Kirsten Langford as the city’s new Mayor, supported by Cr Kieran Simpson as Deputy Mayor.
Both were elected by their fellow Councillors at the annual meeting n Wednesday, November 12.
Cr Langford represents Kingsley Ward. She is Council’s representative on a number of committees including Whitehorse Business Group and Whitehorse Disability Advisory Committee.
Cr Simpson represents Cootamundra Ward He is Council’s representative for the Municipal Association of Victoria and the Metropolitan Transport Forum.
Cr Langford said this position is about being a leader amongst equals and representing the whole community. Cr Langford highlighted the importance of celebrating and preserving the city in the face of future challenges.
“Our role is to represent every person in Whitehorse. Our city faces significant challenges over the next 25 year, with significant housing growth, two new SRL stations, three new activity centres, North East Link and many others,” Cr Langford said.
“We must protect open space and respond to threats to our neighbourhood character. It will be vital that we provide bipartisan advocacy for the community.”
Cr Simpson spoke to the need for collaborative leadership with a focus on local issues and building out shared services.
He said he looked forward to embracing the challenges and opportunities the Deputy Mayor role would bring.
Cr Langford thanked outgoing Mayor Cr Andrew Davenport and outgoing Deputy Mayor Cr Prue Cutts for their service over the past 12 months. Both will continue as representatives for Wattle Ward and Simpson Ward respectively.
Cr Langford and Cr Simpson will serve in their new positions until November 12, 2026.
GAULT HEADS BOROONDARA
● ● ● ● Cr Wes Gault
■ Glenferrie Ward Councillor Wes Gault has been appointed Boroondara mayor for the 2025–26 council year. This marks Cr Gault’s first term as mayor.
Cr Gault was elected by fellow councillors at the Council meeting on Monday, November 17. He has represented Glenferrie Ward since October 2020 and has served as Deputy Mayor.
“I’m honoured to serve as mayor and thank my fellow councillors for their confidence in my leadership,” Cr Gault said.
“Together, we’ll keep delivering on what matters for the communities we represent.”
“As a group, we're committed to working tirelessly to manage any negative impacts of the state government’s Activity Centre Program and its densification aims.
“New housing needs to respect and enhance the characteristics that make Boroondara a spectacular place to live, work, and play.
“We’ll oversee planning for revitalised shopping strips and drive new climate action initiatives, such as reducing CO2 emissions, improved tree canopy and more connected walking and cycling paths. My councillor colleagues and I are also keen to see the progress of key capital projects.
Ben’s funeral
■ The funeral service for Ferntree Gully cricketer Ben Austin will be held at Cricket Victoria's headquarters at the Junction Oval in St Kilda at 11am this Thursday (Nov. 20).
‘No’ to picnic
■ Knox Council has unanimously rejected Australia Day celebration picnic plans, and will only hold three citizenship ceremonies on January 26. Councillors voted to reject a plan for a ‘Knox Picnic in the Park’ event, which would have been held at the Tim Neville Arboretum
Tribute to Alice
■ City of Boroondara is backing a landmark initiative to honour Alice Andersona pioneering mechanic, entrepreneur and trailblazer from Kew
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.
Whitehorse Mayor Cr Kirsten Langford with Cr Kieran Simpson
BALLARAT
Church damaged
■ Ballarat Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man following an arson in Ballarat on Thursday (Nov. 13).
It is alleged the man was seen acting erratically by witnesses inside a church on Lydiard St South about 3pm.
Police allege the man set a lectern, altar and other antique furniture alight before smashing a window and fleeing the scene.
The fire was extinguished and the damage is estimated to be around $75,000.
Two men were inside at the time but were not injured.
Detectives executed a search warrant at a property on Bell St in Redan and arrested a 53-year-old man on Friday (Nov. 14).
The Redan man was charged with arson, criminal damage (x3), unlawful assault and possess prohibited weapon.
He appeared at the Ballarat Magistrates’ Court where he was bailed to attend court again on November 17.
The incident is not believed to be religiously motivated.
Detective Sergeant Glen Melder from Ballarat Crime Investigation Unit said: “Our team of detectives demonstrated their efficiency and skill in identifying, locating, and arresting the offender for this incident in under 24 hours.
“We understand that a church is a safe space for many, and it was important for us to find the offender and hold him to account as quickly as possible.”
BELMONT
Mitsubishi madness
■ Police have caught a woman who carries a zero-alcohol limit on her licence, behind the wheel and allegedly more than four times the standard blood alcohol limit in Belmont on Thursday (Nov. 13).
Officers responded to reports of a substance affected woman behaving erratically in a car park on High St about 2.30pm.
The woman, who was behind the wheel of her Mitsubishi Outlander, returned a positive preliminary breath test and was transported to a police station.
She later returned an alleged evidentiary reading of .203, more than four times the limit of a driver on a standard driver’s licence.
The 32-year-old Highton woman had her license immediately suspended, her vehicle impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1305 and she is expected to be charged on summons.
NATHALIA
Fatal crash
■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal single vehicle crash in Nathalia on Wednesday morning (Nov. 12).
Emergency services were called to reports of a car crashing into a tree near the intersection of the Murray Valley Hwy and Katunga-Picola Rd about 4.15am.
The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle died at the scene. The investigation remains ongoing.
BUNGAREE
Double the limit
■ A 23-year-old driver will find himself before the courts after allegedly claiming his vehicle was stolen when it was clocked by police travelling at 224-kmh in Bungaree Ballarat Highway Patrol members were on patrol on the Western Hwy when a speeding vehicle drew their attention.
Officers clocked the Holden Commodore VE allegedly travelling at more than 160kmh in a 110-kmh zone at 12.24am on November 1.
Police attempted to intercept the vehicle however when it reached speeds of 224-kmh and turned off its lights, officers terminated the chase due to safety concerns.
Within hours of the incident, it IS alleged the registered owner reported his vehicle stolen to police.
Not to be deterred, officers continued their investigation and arrested the 23-yearold registered owner of the vehicle..
Officers interviewed the Ballarat man and will allege that he falsely reported his vehicle being stolen.
He is expected to be charged on summons with perjury, false report and failing to nominate the driver of the vehicle. Investigations into who was driving at the time of the incident remain ongoing.
Hit-run at Traralgon Hit-run at Traralgon
● ● ● ● Latrobe Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance after a pedestrian was involved in a hit-run collision in Traralgon. It is believed an altercation occurred between parties known to each other, before a man was hit by a car on Watkins Court about 5.45pm on August 7. The car, a maroon Ford Falcon failed to stop and drove away from the scene. A 45-year-old Traralgon man was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and has since been released. No arrests have been made, and detectives are keen to speak to any witnesses or anyone in the area at the time of the incident.
ADAM RICHARDSON WANTED ON WARRANT
■ Detectives from East Gippsland are appealing for public assistance to help locate Adam Richardson
The 26-year-old is wanted on warrant for breaching his parole conditions and removing his monitoring device.
Richardson is described as being approximately 178cm tall, of solid build with bald head and a black goatee beard. He is known to frequent the Bairnsdale and Melbourne areas.
Investigators have released images of Richardson in the hope someone may be able to provide information on his current whereabouts.
Anyone who sights Richardson is asked not to approach him and to contact Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Detectives are also urging Richardson to make contact with police or hand himself in at any police station as soon as possible.
BEECHWORTH
Firearms raid
■ Two men have been charged and five firearms, fire-
Across Victoria Across Victoria
arms parts, weapons and drugs have been seized as part of an investigation into illegal firearms use in Victoria’s east. Wodonga detectives, with assistance from the Special Operations Group, executed two search warrants at properties in Beechworth on Monday (Nov. 10), arresting a 64year-old man and 42-year-old man.
At the first address police seized three illicit firearms, assorted ammunition, firearm parts, handgun holsters, rifle scopes, four cannabis plants, steroids and testosterone.
Statewide
CAMPBELLTOWN
Cobra recovered
■ Moorabool Crime Investigation Unit detectives have recovered a stolen Shelby Cobra and 11 other stolen vehicles following the execution of a warrant at Campbelltown on Wednesday (Nov. 12).
Detectives executed the warrant as part of an ongoing stolen vehicle investigation. Some 11 allegedly stolen vehicles were recovered at a Williams St address, along with a stolen boat, bobcat and motorcycle. Officers also located and seized a loaded sawn off shot gun, a suspected 3D manufactured handgun with silencer, cash and quantities of alleged methylamphetamine and GHB.
Further enquiries uncovered a unique and collectable Shelby Cobra Roadster, which was stolen from a rural property in Pentland Hills over the weekend, later the same day.
A 55-year-old Campbelltown man, who was arrested at the Campbelltown property, has been charged with prohibited person possess firearm, drug possession and 14 counts of theft of motor vehicle.
He was remanded in custody to appear before Ballarat Magistrates’ Court
KNOWSLEY
9 vehicles stolen
■ Bendigo Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance after nine vehicles and property were stolen from a farm in Knowsley.
It is believed that unknown offenders attended the rural property on Tunnecliffs Lane between October 12-24while the occupants were away.
During the 12-day period, offenders attended and stole over $150,000 of items, including:
■ a grey 1993 Mazda Bravo ute, registration FBZ077
■ a red Sami tractor
■ a Suzuki 200 motorcycle ■ a Honda CR80 motorcycle
a Yamaha Pwee 50 motorcycle
a Yamaha 350 quad bike ■ two Yamaha 85 mini quad bikes
■ a ride-on lawn mower
■ an air compressor
■ gardening tools, including a leaf blower and whipper snipper
■ a number of tools including chainsaws, drills, a circular saw, an angle grinder and multiple socket sets
The 64-year-old man was charged with almost a dozen offences including prohibited person possessing a category A longarm without a licence, possessing a handgun without a licence, possessing an imitation firearm without a licence, possessing cartridge ammunition without a licence, possessing a traffickable quantity of unregistered firearms and cultivating cannabis.
He wAS TO appear before Wodonga Magistrates’ Court for a remand application.
At the second address police located two imitation handguns, four swords, rifle scopes, assorted ammunition, a slingshot and firearms parts.
The 42-year-old man was charged with seven offences including prohibited person possessing a firearm, prohibited person possessing an imitation firearm, possessing cartridge ammunition without a licence and possessing methylamphetamine.
He was bailed to appear before Wodonga Magistrates’ Court on March 3.
Victoria Police continues to work tirelessly to detect and disrupt illegal firearm use in the community.
Detective Inspector Anthony Town, Eastern Region Investigation and Response Manager, said: “Illicit firearms have absolutely no place in our community, and we are committed to removing them from the wrong hands.
“Victoria Police will stop at nothing to track down and charge those we believe have the access to and propensity to use firearms.”
■ three registered trailers including a camper trailer, a silver tandem trailer and a black 6x4 trailer
Investigators believe most items were stolen on October 19, with the tractor driven away about 10pm.
The offenders also gained entry to the house, taking items including:
■ two televisions
■ three kitchen bench chairs
■ a coffee table
■ two paintings
■ multiple bottles of wine, as well as a wine fridge.
STONELEIGH
3 people die
■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives headed to the scene of a triple fatality in Stoneleigh on Tuesday morning (Nov. 11).
Emergency services were called to the collision, between a truck and car, at the intersection of Eurambeen-Streatham and Mount William Rds shortly after 9.30am.
The vehicle appears to have rolled and been crushed.
The 41-year-old male driver, 31-year-old female passenger and 3-year-old boy died at the scene.
Another adult female, who was trapped in the vehicle, has life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to hospital.
The area was cordoned off and the surrounding roads are blocked while police and emergency service personnel responded to the scene.
Detectives from the Major Collision Investigation Unit are investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision.
The driver of the truck appears to have received minor injuries.
PHOTO: VISIT VICTORIA
Suburban Report
KEW Still Point
■ Otomys, a leading contemporary gallery in the heart of Melbourne, celebrates its 15th anniversary with Still Point - a milestone exhibition now open at the historic Villa Alba Museum in Kew.
On view until Sunday (Nov. 23), StillPoint brings together new works by emerging and established Australian and international artists in a setting that bridges contemporary practice and historic architecture.
Co-curated by Otomys Directors Megan Dicks and Hannah Abbott, the exhibition brings together contemporary works by 23 emerging and established artists from Australia and abroad, all of whom are deeply engaged with process and philosophy in their respective practices.
From sculpture to painting, textile and print, these works reward attentive stillness with a gently resonating presence that extends beyond material form. Still Pointis an invitation to linger in this attentive calm, says publicists
“In a world saturated by cultural clamour, StillPointoffers an alternative, a moment of quiet engagement set within the layered architecture of Villa Alba,” said Ms Dicks “The works reflect process perception and philosophy. These are not artworks that demand attention. They reward it. The still point is a call to slow looking, a quiet encounter, a space for resonance, not reaction.”
“StillPointat Villa Alba offers artists the chance to create new work within a new context.
“They are invited to respond directly to its spaces, shifting their perspectives and processes.
This immersive encounter between artist and place fosters work that could only emerge from the dialogue between contemporary practice and Villa Alba’s richly evocative setting,” said Ms Abbott
The exhibition also introduces the latest artists to join the Otomys stable - Caroline Collom, Madisyn Zabel and Chica Seal - each debuting new work within the exhibition.
A series of special events and talks will take place throughout the run of StillPoint
Across Town ADULTS ONLY VERSION OF HARRY POTTER EXHIBITION
■ HarryPotter:TheExhibition is inviting its adult fans to experience the world-renowned exhibition, in a new way with the launch of After Hours, an exclusive 18+ event debuting this month in Melbourne
AfterHoursoffers a relaxed experience that blends social connection with exploration. Guests can enjoy a complimentary snack and their choice of a cocktail (with valid 18+ ID), mocktail, or soft drink before venturing into the exhibition to discover beautifully crafted environments that
Melbournewide
honour many of the unforgettable moments from the films that fans and audiences have loved for more than two decades.
Show dates are:
■ November 24 ■ December 8 6pm-9pm (last entry at 8pm)
Fever Exhibition and Experience Centre, Brunswick
While tailored for adults, the evening retains all the wonder of the behind-thescenes filmmaking magic, celebrating iconic moments, characters, settings, and creatures.
Guests can learn how to brew a potion, cast a spell, pot a mandrake, or even sit down in Hagrid’s oversized armchair or give their Quidditch skills a try.
After Hours is designed for every kind of fan and grown up who needs a night out.
MELBOURNE
Union, RMIT in Court
■ The National Tertiary Education Union has launched Federal Court action against RMIT University over allegations it underpaid student counsellors for at least a decade, with affected staff potentially owed more than $1 million in stolen wages.
The case centres on RMIT requiring counsellors to be psychologists or social workers who hold postgraduate degrees in psychology or social work while paying them at a lower classification reserved for undergraduate-qualified positions.
The test case brought on behalf of NTEU member and clinical psychologist Michael Swadling, who is seeking $87,000 in underpayments since 2019, could open the door for 15 current counsellors and additional former staff to recover years of wages, says a statement from the union.
RMIT's student counselling team supports more than 2000 students each year, with 30 per cent of those students reporting thoughts of suicide/self-harm or experiencing family violence in 2023.
“Despite the critical nature of this work, RMIT was the only university nationally requiring postgraduate qualifications while paying counsellors at the lower Level 7 rate instead of Level 8,” said a Union representative.
“In May this year, RMIT moved counsellors to ‘senior counsellor’ roles at the higher pay rate – effectively admitting the misclassification – but refused to provide backpay or properly recognise years of service in setting salaries.”
NTEU National President Dr Alison Barnes said the case exposed how universities exploit their most vital workers.
"Here we have highly qualified mental health professionals responding to student crises and preventing tragedies, yet their employer has underpaid them for years," she said.
"RMIT decided these counsellors needed postgraduate degrees to do their jobs safely and effectively, but chose to pocket the difference by classifying them incorrectly.
"This is a betrayal of the crucial professional staff universities rely on to keep vulnerable students safe."
Adults only Harry Potter exhibition at Brunswick
Observer Health
In The Pink Plants for pain
■ Up to 8 in 10 women experience period pain, and nearly half report PMS symptoms.
Professional netballer, Goal Attack Kiera Austin, 28, from Melbourne, will this week pivot from the court to front a national conversation about menstrual health, sharing how its symptoms can affect focus, energy, and performance.
She will discuss the potential of evidencebased, plant-based alternatives to traditional pain-relief medicines for millions of women and girls.
Disease control
■ Public health groups say they are delighted that legislation to create an Australian Centre for Disease Control – which they say is the most important piece of public health infrastructure in generations – has having passed the Senate and can start next year.
“Thanks to the many people who’ve put in hard work and long nights, showing it’s a long way to the top to get a Centre for Disease Control,” said Adj Prof Terry Slevin, CEO, Public Health Association of Australia
Mental health
■ Safe Work Australia has revealed a sharp increase in work-related mental health claims between 2023 and 2024, now making up 12 per cent of all serious workplace claims.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2025
NEW RESTRICTIONS ON INDEPENDENT NURSES
■ New telehealth rules will restrict nurse practitioners’ ability to deliver high-quality healthcare, according to Australian College of Nursing Chief Nursing Officer, Frances Rice
This will be a loss to Australians, particularly in remote and regional areas.
Patients of independent nurse practitioners will now be required to have had at least one face-to-face appointment within the prior 12 months to be able to claim a Medicare rebate for a telehealth appointment.
“In a health system desperately short of clinicians, independent nurse practitioners are a hugely valuable asset that we should be encouraging and supporting,” Ms Rice said.
“We need to be using each and every health professional’s skills and expertise to their full extent.
“Yet at every turn, nurse practitioners have to fight tooth and nail to be able to deliver care within a system that is often hostile to them.
“The telehealth rules are just the latest example of this.”
While general practitioners are exempt from the new ‘one-in-twelve’ rule if they are registered with the MyMedicare system, independent nurse practitioners are excluded from registering with MyMedicare
NOTICE TO PATIENTS OF Mount Waverley Clinic Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) Health Records Act 2001 (Vic)
Matthew Rubinfeld Medical Pty Ltd (ACN 126822106), which operates a medical centre business in Victoria trading as Mt Waverley Clinic (Business), is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement to sell the Business to Bupa Health Centres Pty Ltd (Bupa Medical) (ACN 601 714 738), expected to be effective from 1 December 2025.
Patient health records (other than any records which patients direct Bupa Medical to deal with as outlined below) will be transferred to Bupa Medical, who will maintain and manage those records on an ongoing basis in accordance with accepted medical records management practices. If we hold health records of yours and you would prefer that we transfer your health information to another health service provider, or to you, please contact Bupa Medical on the contact details below as soon as possible.
■ A new clinical trial will investigate an accelerated, less burdensome treatment to improve quality of life for people with brain cancer, supported with $1.49 million in funding from the Medical Research Future Fund
A Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research-led team of clinicians and researchers will collaborate on the trial, focused on glioblastoma – a highly aggressive and lethal brain cancer with an average survival time of 12 to 18 months.
Vitamin D down
■ Many Australian parents are unknowingly running on empty. Iron and vitamin D deficiencies are quietly affecting parents’ energy, mood and focus – often mistaken for the usual exhaustion that comes with raising kids.
Nearly a quarter (24 per cent) of Australian adults are vitamin D deficient, while around two million Australians are low in iron, says Touch Biotechnology.
Women’s wellbeing
■ Almost 50 per cent of women in midlife surveyed in a Monash University-led study had poor sexual wellbeing, including a doubling of the likelihood of desire and arousal dysfunction in early peri-menopausal women from premenopause. The study was published in in TheLancetObstetrics,Gynaecology,&Women'sHealth.
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■ Detectives from the Homicide Squad are investigating following the death of a Sebastopol child.
Police have been told the one-year-old boy became unresponsive about 12 Noon on Tuesday, November 4, while at home and was taken to hospital by his mother and her partner.
The child passed away in a Melbourne hospital on November 6.
Exact circumstances leading up to the child’s death are still being determined.
Detectives from the Homicide Squad and the Ballarat Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Investigation Team have spoken with the boy’s 26-year-old mother and her 18-yearold male partner.
The investigation remains ongoing. DANDENONG
Report for Coroner
■ A woman and child drowned after falling into a waterway in Dandenong
A witness reported two people had been swept away after falling into Dandenong Creek, near Allan St, about 3.45pm on Monday, November 10.
It is believed that the woman went to the aid of the child and also got into difficulty.
Police conducted a search of the area and located the unconscious pair, pulling them from the water and starting CPR.
Despite the best efforts of emergency services, they were unable to be revived and declared deceased at the scene.
The deceased are believed to be a 33year-old woman from Doveton and a 7-yearold boy from Doveton. Police will prepare a report for the coroner.
VICTORIA
Pill testing ratio
■ Mobile pill testing by the State Government at five major music festivals last summer, where almost ,400 samples were tested – saw 11 per cent of samples not what people expected their drugs to be.
CYBERCRIMINAL COPS
22 MONTHS IN PRISON
■ A Victorian man who purchased stolen personal data from an illegal online marketplace and used it to facilitate criminal activity, including money laundering and drug trafficking, has been sentenced to 22 months’ imprisonment.
The Box Hill man, 34, was sentenced by the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court after previously pleading guilty to six offences.
After serving 12 months’ imprisonment, the man will be released on a two-year recognisance release order.
In 2020 and 2021, the man used an account on Genesis Market - which was once one of the largest cybercriminal marketplaces on the internet - to purchase malware bots containing compromised credentials of Australian victims.
The credentials included log-in passwords and screenshots of identification documents and financial transactions.
The man used the credentials to access the victims’ bank accounts and transfer their money into accounts in his name.
He also used the stolen identities to apply for a VIP account at a casino, purchase cryptocurrency and launder money.
The Australian Federal Police identified the man as part of Operation Zinger , which was an FBI-led, multi-agency international investigation
Statewide
into Genesis Market, assisted by the AFP , NSW Police Force, Victoria Police, Queensland Police Service and Western Australia Police Force
In March 2023, the AFP executed a search warrant at the man’s Box Hill home. Police seized six phones, each containing the personal details of fraud victims, gold bars, images of the man posing with fraudulent IDs, more than 15 cryptocurrency seed phrases, about $10,000 cash, small quantities of illicit drugs hidden inside an energy drink can and three luxury watches.
The man was charged in October 2023. He later pleaded guilty to:
■ One count of producing false or misleading documents,
■ One count of possessing identification information,
■ One count of dishonestly obtaining or dealing in personal financial information,
■ One count of trafficking in a controlled drug, namely methamphetamine and gamma-butyrolactone,
■ One count of dealing with property reasonably suspected of being proceeds of crime, and
■ One count of possessing identification information, with the intent to use that identification information to engage in conduct which constitutes an offence.
Across Victoria
MELBOURNE
Hidden in powder
■ A Hungarian national has been sentenced to more than seven years’ imprisonment for trying to smuggle 9kg of methamphetamine into Australia last year, concealed inside blueberry powder packaging.
The man, 26, was sentenced by the County Court to seven years and six months’ imprisonment, with a non-parole period of four years.
Investigations began after the man arrived at Melbourne Airport on December 17, on a flight from Los Angeles, USA Australian Border Force officers alerted the Australian Federal Police after examining the man’s suitcase and finding 9kg of methamphetamine concealed inside packets of blueberry powder.
The man told police he was paid about $14,200 to carry ’watches‘ into Australia and was then to meet an unknown individual at a nearby hotel to hand them over.
The AFP charged the man and he pleaded guilty on October 29, to one count of importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, namely methamphetamine.
AFP Detective Inspector Jarrod Ragg said the seized methamphetamine had the potential to be sold as 90,000 individual street level deals, worth an estimated $8.3 million in profits for criminals.
“The AFP and ABF are relentless in our commitment to prevent harmful drugs from entering our community and causing harm,” Det Insp Ragg said.
“Drugs like methamphetamine bring harm and violence into our communities and are an impost on our health care system.
“This matter is an important reminder that travellers are responsible for the items they bring into Australia. Anyone who offers you cash to carry something for them is not to be trusted and claiming you did not know the items were illicit drugs is not a valid excuse.”
ABF Inspector Costas Karatzas said this outcome serves as reminder to anyone looking to circumvent Australia’s border controls that they will be met with an appropriate punishment.
Columnists: Len Baker, Matt Bissett-Johnson, Rob Foenander, Peter Kemp, Aaron Rourke, Ted Ryan, Cheryl Threadgold, Julie Houghton, Kevin Trask, John O’Keefe
Honorary Reviewers: Juliet Charles, Sherryn Danaher, Lyn Hurst, Kathryn Keeble, Beth Klein, Graeme McCoubrie, David McLean, Maggie Morrison, Peter Murphy, Lucy Nicolson, Jill Page, Elizabeth Semmell
Logistics: Tyler Sandiford, Tim Granvillani, Erica Koldinsky
Credit Manager: Michael Conway OAM, Fast Action Debt Recovery, 0402 142 866
Ash on Wednesday Hancock leads Maroondah
■ Maroondah City Council has a new Mayor, following a Meeting on Wednesday (Nov. 12).
Cr Linda Hancock was elected as Maroondah’s 29th Mayor during a special neeting which was also livestreamed to the Maroondah community. This is Cr Hancock’s first term as Mayor.
Cr Hancock will be supported by Cr Paul Macdonald, who was elected to the role of Deputy Mayor. It is the second time he has held this position.
Cr Hancock said it was a great honour to be elected to represent the Council for the next 12 months, the second year of the current Council term.
“As Mayor, I’m looking forward to representing our community with integrity, respect, and dedication,” Cr Hancock said.
“I am especially passionate about fostering inclusion — ensuring that everyone in Maroondah, regardless of age, background, or circumstance, feels valued and supported,” Cr Hancock said.
“I will ensure that we continue to provide services and facilities that meet the needs of our community and remain focussed on delivering outcomes that matter — supporting families and businesses, strengthening our local economy, enhancing our community spaces, and ensuring that we listen to our residents.
“I’d like to thank my fellow Councillors for entrusting me to lead this Council and our vibrant and diverse City
“Together, I know we will continue to work collaboratively as a team to serve the
Long Shots
people of Maroondah with transparency, accountability, and care.”
Cr Hancock thanked the outgoing Mayor, Cr Kylie Spears, for her strong leadership, commitment and enthusiasm for the Maroondah community over the past 12 months.
“As we enter the second year of this current Council term, I look forward to continuing and completing many of the projects aligned with the new Council Plan 2025-29 and Maroondah 2050 — our new long-term community vision,” Cr Hancock said.
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
September 14, 1969
in localised
in 40 areas across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and some country areas.
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
‘Gainst
“These include continuing one of Council’s biggest ever infrastructure projects as part of the Croydon Community Wellbeing Precinct, as well as the revitalisation of Croydon Main Street . I look forward to meeting many members of our community during my term as Mayor,” cr Hancock said.
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. Read
Have a
Cheryl Threadgold, Local Theatre
Julie Houghton, The Arts
Kevin Trask, Entertainment
Rourke, Film
Ted Ryan, Horse Racing Len Baker, Harness Racing Matt
Mayor Cr Linda Hancock with Deputy Mayor Cr Paul Macdonald
Obs and Revs
Nice guy Mike
■ The LocalPaper/MelbourneObserveris expanding, and one of our growing sections is the VictorianRuralNewsliftout.
A shoutout to Mike Henderson of Lonsdale Merchants , who are based in Stawell, whose advertisements have been seen in our country living section.
Thanks to our readers who have been sending congratulatory messages for our added sections including:
■ PlacesToGo
■ ObserverHealth
■ MelbourneSeniorsNews
■ MelbourneHomemaker.
A DineOutsection is being added in 2026.
Celebrating Brendan
● ● Brendan Scott
■ Brendan Scott first came to prominence across Melbourne with his appearances on the 3AW Nightlineand Overnightersradio programs with presenters Bruce Mansfield, Philip Brady and Keith McGowan.
Brendan has forged a career as an entertainer with a regular schedule of gigs across Victoria (and beyond) at pubs, clubs and halls.
In what he says is a natural progression, Brendan has become a Funeral Celebrant. He says he will be honoured to assist families at a difficult time.
Paul is a Star
■ Our companies may compete for local newspaper advertising dollars, but there is no doubt that Star News Group boss Paul Thomas is setting a cracking pace with his growing stable of mastheads across Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia.
The latest acquisitions, with his Today group partner Damian Morgan, have been a cluster of community mastheads to the west and north of Brisbane. Through their Ipswich Media company, the duo has acquired the FassifernGuardianand sister publications the MoretonBorder News and Ipswich Tribune from the Boonah Newspaper Company
In September, they took over Mildura’s SunraysiaDaily, the SwanHillGuardian, the GannawarraTimesat Kerang, Broken HillTimesand North-WestFarmer,from the Lanjyon family.
Musical theatre
■ The Idols of Musical Theatre takes the stage at Melbourne Recital Centre on December 27 and 28. Rob Mills, Casey Donovan and Paulini came together in the rehearsal room alongside John Foreman to launch the event.
Omega Ensemble
■ Omega Ensemble i has unveiled its 2026 national concert season, a celebration of chamber classics and cutting-edge new works performed by classical music’s finest artists.
In 2026, audiences can expect six programs, 11 concerts, six world premieres and three Australian premieres, performed by outstanding artists, including Australian trumpet virtuoso David Elton, French-born, Australian-based Horn player Nico Fleury, rising star conductor Sam Weller and internationally acclaimed clarinettist David Rowden Starburstwill be in Melbourne on Wednesday, February 18.
HAPPY 50TH TO FINE MUSIC 3MBS
■ As part of the halfcentury celebrations for Melbourne fine msuic station 3MBSFM, Sarah Barzel conducted an hourlong interview with Henry Sachwald, host of Theatretrack.
Henry has been a volunteer host at the Abbotsford-based radio station for more than 40 years. He wants to beat John Cargher’s 42-year stint at the ABC.
In the chat, he traced the history of the show, and how it developed from an idea in his New Yorkchildhood.
Henry conducted the first on-air interview for the station at its then-Cotham Rd studios with local actor Frank Wilson. He is known as a former teacher at Mount Scopus, Carey and Wesley, as well as being a celebrated oboist, conductor, educator and broadcaster. He founded Musicals Australia
On air favourites
■ Your columnist’s radio is firmly tuned most of the week to the 103.5FM frequency for 3MBS. The Observer’s own Julie Houghton can often be heard on Amanda Smith’s Friday drive-home program.
Our favourites on the station, in no particular order, include:
■ Peter Bandy, who has a marvellous ability to laugh at himself on his Wednesday afternoon Intermezzoprogram,
■ Ian Lingard, with his Saturday morning brass band selections, ■ Loretto Perkins, the Tuesday morning Daybreakhost, ■ Stephen Carpenter, with his Morning Recitalpresentations on Friday.
Special mentions to Ted Davies (Concert Hall, Thursday afternoons); Allan Smith (Organ and ChoraleMusic,Sundays); the posh Felicity Cronan (MusicFor Strings, Sunday mornings); and Mark Vendy on Saturday mornings (although his microphone levels lately are a bit on the quiet side).
School days
■ School days, School days, dear old gold-en rule-days Read-in' and 'rit-in' and 'rith-me-tic, Taught to the tune of a hick-'ry stick,
Best wishes to Ivanhoe Grammar School Principal Gerard Foley and Development Director Geoff Brown who are organising the annual reunion lunch next Tuesday (Nov. 25) for ‘Old Boys’ from 1915-1980.
These years were under the Headmasterships of Sydney Buckley, Victor Brown and Charles Sligo, when IGS was boys only.
Vale Geoff
■ Former 3XY, EON (now MMM ) and GTV9 Chief Engineer Geoff Tomes passed away on November 8 at age 79, after a brief illness.
There will be a funeral and life celebration this coming Friday (Nov. 21) to honour Geoff He was husband of Lindy (dec.), and father of Penny and Vicki
luncheon of the journey involved in assembling the books.
Other speakers at the luncheon, convened by former Festival Records executive Bill Duff, were Derryn Hinch, Craig Willis and JohnMichael Howson.
The event, hosted at South Melbourne’s Emerald Hotel , served as a reunion for the team that produced the groundbreakingx 1990s Pillow Talk programs: MMM’s Dr Sally Cockburn (‘Dr Feelgood’), Paul Cashmere and Roselle Sorrentino.
Some of the 3AW news alumni were there: Denis O’Kane, Tony Tardio, Rob Curtain, Tony McManus, Paul Nicholson and Ron Bourke.
The Channel 7 team included Gordon Bennett, Mal Walden and Chris Ryan.
The Geelong contingent included 3GL alumni John Humphries, Ric Ditchburn and Gary Newton.
Other radio folk in attendance were Bruce Stewart (3DB), Gary Mac (various), Mike Menner (3WBC) and Kevin Trask (Inner FM).
Countdownlegend Gavin Wood was looking ultra-healthy, as was his colleague from US days, Rod Hardy (formerly Crawford Productions, as was Grant Brown).
Mayor election
So long David
■ Carole Ann Aylett Gill was speaker at the funeral service for David Martyn, husband of Jan, at Warrandyte last week.
Media mates
■ It has been 12 years since TV newsreader Mal Walden signed off from his last Ten News bulletin.
And it has been 38 years since HSV-7 bosses axed him from the 6.30pm news broadcasts, back in 1987.
Mal has been busy in the meantime, penning nine books through Brolga Publishing, headed by Mark Zocchi.
Mal’s latest book, TheNewsMan:Sixty Years of Television was launched last month.
He told last Saturday’s Survivors
■ Family and friends will gather at 11am tomorrow (Thu., Nov. 20) at St Paul's Catholic Church, 230-240 Sunshine Ave, Kealba, for the Requiem Mass for Peter Frederick Furniss who died on October 31, aged 85.
Peter was a prominent member and former Chairman of the Collingwood Football Club Archives Committee. In his working life, he instructed in auto trimming at Kangan TAFE when it was situated in Gaffney St, Coburg.
Peter was husband of Demaris who predeceased him, and father of Adam and Shivaun.
A private cremation will take place at another location. Arrangerments are in the hands of Ern Jensen Funerals.
Relations of Mina
■ John Fleming, a life member of the Australian Photographic Collectors Society, is seeking to contact relatives of the 1930s photographer Mina M. Stoll of Vermont
Miss Mina Marguerita Stoll, a teacher by profession, was born in 1897 and spent most of her life on the family orchard in Boronia Rd, where Moore Rd is now.
“During the period mid-1920s to about 1940 she contributed regularly to the old AustralasianPhotoReviewmagazine and won many first prizes for her wonderful compositions,” said John.
“I have scans of most of these, fortunately the National Library of Australia has every issue of APR archived. Mina retired from teaching in 1957, and by that time was living in Barkly Terrace.
“She died in 1988 and I would like to trace any family members to perhaps gain first hand account of her and her work.”
■ The election for City of Whittlesea Mayor is due to take place tonight (Wed., Nov. 19).
Cr Martin Taylor, current Mayor, went on social media last weekend to confirm that he would like to continue in the role.
“After strong encouragement from across our community, I wish to share that I will be seeking re-election as Mayor of the City of Whittlesea for the 2026 term.
“I make this announcement with humility, pride, and a firm commitment to continuing the good work we have commenced together and further strengthening the future of our municipality.
“Serving as Mayor has been one of the great honours of my professional life.
“Over the past year, our city has navigated significant transition, renewal, and growth,” Cr Taylor told the Facebook audience.
He wants to contact people including Gregory Emmerson, Anthony Emmerson, Michael Emmerson or Richard Emmerson, all born post 1950, Box Hill. He is also seeking Haydn Clyde Sherlock (a grandson of Mina’s sister).
Peter Roland Emmerson was a Box Hill businessman and Rotarian, also executor of her will.
Contact John by email at: johnlinhof54@gmail.com
On the Square
■ Phillip Barravecchio will be re-installed as Worshipful Master of Sir Redmond Barry Lodge at Freemasons Victoria East Melbourne headquarters this Friday (Nov. 21).
The Sick List
■ Best wishes for a speedy repair to media man John Allan (‘Officer Green’ in Prisoner) who had unexpected gallstones surgery at Knox on Saturday (Nov. 15).
■ TV-radio man Derryn Hinch is back at home after a three-week stay at the Alfred Hospital following a fall in his St Kilda Rd apartment.
Good word for ...
■ PJ Lane, son of TV performer Don Lane, ut together a mighty tribute show to his late father at Palms At Crown last Friday night (Nov. 14). There was quite a contingent of big names from those GTV-9 days. ■ ABC Gippsland reporter Bec Symons has been named the inaugural Rural Press Club of Victoria scholarship recipient for 2025.
Peter Furniss
● ● ● ● Henry Sachwald
Titus Andronicus
■ The gratuitous violence and callousness of Shakespeare’s TitusAndronicus has often seen the work sidelined, but in this interpretation by directors Kevin Hopkins and Claire Nicholls, the moral ambiguities of exacting revenge, the political schemes perpetrated, and personal grievances manifested are all made relevant.
Josh Morrison makes for a powerful Titus caught between duty to the state and the love of his family.
The challenge is to play the emotional untethering, where madness and reason become confused, gradually over the course of the play.
This ultimately allows him to serve his daughter’s rapists up as a meal to their mother.
The unity of the cast in developing characters that are able to deliver lines convincingly speaks to their ability to inhabit roles that have emotional depth and purpose.
Hopkins and Nicholls have kept the performance space sparse, trusting in the cast’s ability to convey atmosphere.
The oriental costuming ( Paulina Kostove), while a quirk, serves to highlight the ordered world of Rome where the play is set, in contrast to the shambolically dressed Goths.
The foundation of Shakespeare’s craft as an emerging playwright are evident in this performance. The political appeals to the audience invite participation. Shakespeare broke the fourth wall before the term even existed.
The Fifth Step
● ● ● ● Martin Freeman and Jack Lowden in The Fifth Step
■ TheFifthStepwill screen in select Australian cinemas from November 28.
Olivier Award-winner Jack Lowden (Slow Horses,Dunkirk) is joined by Emmy and BAFTA -winner Martin Freeman ( The Hobbit,TheResponder) in this critically acclaimed and subversively funny new play written by David Ireland and directed by Finn den Hertog.
The story tells of James having spent years in the 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous, who becomes a sponsor to newcomer Luka
The pair bond over black coffee, trade stories and build a fragile friendship out of their shared experiences. But as Luka approaches step five–the moment of confession–dangerous truths emerge, threatening the trust on which both of their recoveries depend.
Filmed live from @sohoplace on London’s West End, TheFifthStepwill screen in select Australian cinemas from November 28. Tickets on sale now. sharmillfilms.com.au
Cheryl Threadgold
Love Actually, Musical Parody
■ LoveActually,theMusicalParodyreturns to Melbourne's Athenaeum Theatre from December 5.
The show is promoted as: '”This festive season, everyone's favourite christmas movie will be gloriously sent up in the offBroadway smash hit, Love Actually: The MusicalParody
“From the comedic minds behind Friends!TheMusicalParody, this new musical brings the classic Christmas rom-com Love Actually to life in a whole new way. Described as 'The perfect untraditional Christmas tradition for ages 15 and up'.”
Tickets on sale now: loveactually musicalparody.com
Cheryl Threadgold
● ● The Melbourne Observer section is produced weekly, February to December. Digital issues are weekly, print issues are fortnightly.
CRICKET THE MUSICAL Confidential
■ Singer, songwriter and satirist Denis Carnahan returns to the stage this summer with his one-man cult hit musical comedy show, CrickettheMusical.
CricketTheMusicalwill follow the English Cricket Team’s tour of Australia and plays in Melbourne on December 27, 28 in The Show Room, Arts Centre Melbourne.
“The 2025-26 cricket season is destined to be filled with controversy and pantomime, from the World Test Championship to the West Indies series, followed by the always hilarious touring English cricketers,” said Carnahan.
“They’re still smarting from the Farce of the Wandering Bairstow, and sure to bring the slapstick of Bazball
“Add to that the drama of last season’s Indian shoulder charges and send offs and the burlesque of the Big Bash, and you have more comic narratives than any music theatre librettist could ever dream of.
“So I can’t think of a better time to tour CricketTheMusicaland bring people together around their shared love of the game than while the energy is high and the crowds are buzzing around the country this summer.”
Australia’s musical sports satirist will use his unique satirical spin to review all the standout moments of the summer’s cricket, along with the game’s history of treachery, villainy, facial hair, and illegal abrasives.
For almost two decades, Carnahan has been producing songs and parodies about the many colourful characters and controversies Australian sport produces.
They go to air weekly on the ABC, and have previously featured on TheFootyShow, Fox Sports, Triple M and many more.
His songs about Stuart Broad’s sportsmanship, MCC selection policies, Mitchell Johnson’s moustache and other sports have had millions of hits on YouTube
CricketTheMusicalbrings songs to life on stage, with videos, sketches and caricatures celebrating the many controversies of this summer’s matches. Tickets are now on sale.
Performance Season: December 27, 28
Venue: The Show Room, Arts Centre Melbourne Bookings: cricketthemusical.com.au
Cheryl Threadgold
Dark Erotica Quartet/Footfalls
■ The double bill of James Hazelden’s Dark EroticaQuartet, and Samuel Beckett’s Footfalls, is an intriguing journey into the untethered mind.
Hazelden provides a quirky scenario with an opening that touches on homosexual erotica only for the narrative to deviate in comic and perplexing ways. He takes us on a journey that doesn’t follow the normal expected course.
What connects the piece are recurring images that bind the story line which is enough to keep the audience centred but slightly disoriented.
Only when - and here is a spoiler alert - you realise that we are in a dreamscape does everything become explicable.
What didn’t make sense, namely a cello punctuating action or a leap in performance style or character, suddenly becomes an insight into the quirkiness of dreams.
Performers Cait Spiker, Matthew Connell and Tim Wotherspoon are afforded the liberty to move between melodrama and realism given the nature of the piece playing the audience when given the opportunity. They take the audience with them, teasing out erotic suggestion without prurience making it, just as our dreams are, a normal function of the imagination.
Maude Davey’s performance in Beckett’s Footfalls, is far more cerebral. A mature woman paces the floor recalling conversations with her aged mother only to recount scenes of past events.
There is no comic relief here and Davey plays with the notion of a febrile mind and how discordant and unfastened reality can become.
Beckett intended the work as an insight into the mind’s instability but, as such, deliberately never resolved the unsettling repercussions of a mind that can fabricate reality. Both works, perhaps, toy with the notion of absence. Everything is mutable where the mind is concerned.
The performance space (Oliver Hall ) is sparse and the lighting (Kris Chainey) provides appropriate shadow and tone adding to the atmosphere. All in all, a thought provoking evening.
Presented at fortyfivedownstairs
Review by David McLean
Two Prosecutors
■ Set in Stalin’s Russia in 1937, TwoProsecutorsis based on a story by dissident writer and gulag survivor Georgy Demidov and is written and directed by Sergei Loznitsa. A chance discovery of a blood-written note, rescued from a mountain of others headed for the incinerator, is diverted to the prosecutor’s office.
A secret act of defiance by a fellow prisoner in a world of oppression. Kornyev (Aleksandr Kuznetsov), inexplicably promoted to state prosecutor three months after graduating, decides to pursue the strange request.
The note writer, Stepniak (Aleksandr Fillipenko), is a former state prosecutor, now a political prisoner. Undeterred by the prison authorities’ delaying tactics, Kornyev insists on visiting the old man.
Mundane scenes follow, of endless shots of climbing stairs, walking down grey corridors, and locking and unlocking gates. Despite the monotony, a sense of unease begins to spread.
Kornyev recognises the old man as a former lecturer who spoke on ‘The Great Bolshevik Truth’, resolving to plead Stepniak’s case to the authorities in Moscow . At each meeting with various functionaries, Kornyev waits as the clock marks time passing, ignoring subtle warnings not to pursue Stepniak’s case.
In Moscow, amid a room full of other greysuited young men, Kornyev waits for hours.
Finally, in a short and brutal meeting, a bureaucrat, Vyshynsky (Anatoli Beliy), listens poker-faced to his plea before dismissing him.
Two Prosecutors is a terrifying cautionary tale about how totalitarian regimes turn timewasting methods into a deadly game.
Kuznetsov is excellent as Kornyev, his idealism shining through despite his deadpan expression.
Lulled into a false sense of justice in his mission, Kornyev misjudges the danger he is getting himself into, but we recognise the Kafkaesque nightmare he is entering. Chillingly, we sense the ending and dread the inevitable.
Now screening in Australian cinemas. Review by Kathryn Keeble
■ Parody done well can be hilarious. However, doing it well is not as simple as it looks. The play TheHauntingOfSpookMansion (By Ghosts), as the title suggests, was a send-up of the classic haunted house horror story.
Hilarious at times it unfortunately failed to maintain its early momentum and faded in the second half.
In a plot straight out of the horror playbook, noted author and professional sceptic of the supernatural, Professor Adrian Chambers, is offered half a million dollars by a devoted reader, Beth Jackson.
The catch is that to earn the money he must spend a night in a house supposedly haunted by Jackson’s dead father. Chambers’ beliefs are shaken to the core as the night’s events unfold.
Written by comedy writer Michael Ward, the scene was set economically with many a gag and jokes so bad they were good.
The play’s three characters of Chambers, Jackson and Flugel, were appropriately stereotypical and the action proceeded apace.
However, as the plot developed more fully the tone seemed to turn more serious, with attempts at humour misfiring or feeling jaded.
Far from jaded however were the solid performances of the seasoned professionals playing in this three-hander.
The trio consisted of Peter Houghton (playing Adrian Chambers), Emily Taheny (Beth Jackson) and Ben Russell (Flugel)
The standouts though were Houghton and Taheny. The nervous tic Houghton gave Chambers and Taheny’s playing of the mandatory scene of Jackson being possessed were comedy gold.
Directed by Russell Fletcher there was a good pace to the show with scene changes well-executed.
Fletcher was given fantastic support by the production team of Sarah Tulloch (set and costumes), Jason Bovaird (lighting) and Stephen Gates (sound), who did a marvellous job of creating a suitably spooky atmosphere.
Sadly though, after a promising start, The HauntingOfSpookMansion(ByGhosts) ran out of comedy steam and, consequently, became a less than satisfying evening’s entertainment.
Season: Until November 23
Venue: Chapel-off-Chapel, 12 Little Chapel St, Prahran Review by Peter Murphy
ABC accountable
■ Senator Sarah Henderson says the ABC must be held to account “when it doctors footage and photographs or otherwise conducts itself in a manner which compromises its statutory obligation to be impartial and accurate in its reporting”.
“In the wake of the growing scandal at the BBC involving the doctoring of a speech made by President Trump on January 6, 2021, Sky News presenter Chris Kenny has revealed the ABC also improperly edited this same speech as depicted in a FourCornersdocumentary,” Senator Henderson said.
“Like the BBC, the ABC stands accused of deleting key lines in President Trump’s speech which contradicted Four Corners’ narrative alleging the President had implicitly encouraged civil unrest which led to the Capital riots,” Senator Henderson said in a statement.
● ● ● ● Denis Carnahan in Cricket The Musical
● ● Peter Houghton (Adriuian Chambers) in The Haunting of Spook Mansion (by Ghosts)
Photo: Darren Gill
David McLean
Local Theatre Observations
Shows
■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Jeeves and Wooster in ‘Perfect Nonsense’ (by The Goodale Brothers and PG Wodehouse) Until November 22 at 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Keith Hutton. Bookings: wlt.org.au
■ Beaumaris Theatre: Blackaddder II (based on the original BBC Television Series created by Richard Curtis, Rowan Atkinson, Ben Elton and John Lloyd and adapted for the stage by Dan Bellis and Harrison Ewart-Dart) Until November 22 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Directors: Dan Bellis and Harrison Ewart-Dart. Bookings: beaumaristheatre.com.au
■ Williamstown Musical Theatre Company: Cruel Intentions Until November 22 at Altona City Theatre, 115 Civic Pde., Altona. Director: Stuart Dodge; Musical Director: Jem Sherwill; Choreographer: Gabriele Pagano. Bookings: wmtc.org.au
■ The Good Life (by Jeremy Sams) Until November 22 at Brighton Theatre, Carpenter St., Brighton. Director: Joanne Gabriel. Bookings: brightontheatrecompany.com.au Powderkeg Players: November (by David Mamet) Until November 22 at St Albans Senior Citizens Centre, Cnr William and Alfrieda Sts., St Albans. Director: Lee Cook. Bookings: 0407802165.
■ Trek Musicals: A Coo-ee to Marie: Marie Narelle, Australia’s Queen of Irish Song (written and directed by Darren Rosenfeld and Michael Try) All performances at 2pm. November 22 at Diamond Creek Uniting Church; November 23 at Ormond Uniting Church. Musical Director: Graham Ford. Tickets: Trybooking. $25/$20 or at the door.
■ Peridot Theatre Company: Talking Heads (by Alan Bennett) Until November 23 at the South Oakleigh Bowling Club, 1216 North Rd., Oakleigh South. Directors: Bob Bramble, Steven McPhail, and Eleni Rogers.
■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Birthday Candles (by Noah Haidle) Until November 22 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, Parkdale. Director: Helen Ellis. Bookings: mordialloc theatre.com.au/ or 9556 4440.
■ The 1812 Theatre: Rhinestone Rex and Miss Monica, November 13 – December 6 at The 1812 Theatre, 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Chris and Libby Procter. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au 9758 3964.
■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG) The Beauty Queen of Leenane (by Martin McDonagh) Until November 22 at the Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman St., Strathmore. Director: Matthew Freeman. Bookings: stagtheatre.org
■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee November Until November 29 at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Tim Scott. Bookings: htc.org.au
■ Frankston Theatre Group: The Farndale Avenue Housing Estate’s Townswomen’s Guild Dramatic Society’s Production of ‘A Christmas Carol: A Comedy (by David McGillivray and Walter Zerlin) Until November 30 at the Mt Eliza Community Hall, 90 –100 Canadian Bay Rd., Mt Eliza. Director: Robert Lister. Bookings: trybooking.com/ events/landing/1374274
■ Synchronicity Performing Arts: A Sherlock Carol – Premiere Production (by Mark Shanahan) November 20 – 29 at The Engine Room, View St., Bendigo. Bookings: synchronicity.org.au
■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Sister Amnesia’s Country Western Nunsense Jamboree (book, lyrics and music by Dan Goggin) November 20 – December 6 at the Lilydale Mechanics’ Institute, Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Alan Burrows. Bookings: lilydaleatc.com
■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: The Famous Warrandyte Follies November 21 – December 6 at the Warrandyte Mechanics’ Institute, 180 Yarra St., Warrandyte. Director: Adrian R,ice. Bookings: tba
■ Eltham Little Theatre: Whodunnit (by Anthony Shaffer) November 21 – December 6 at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Rd., Research. Director: Peter T Nathan. Bookings: elthamlittletheatre. org.au/
■ OSMaD: Come From Away. December 4 –13 at the Geoffrey McComas Theatre, Scotch College Campus, 1 Morrison St., Hawthorn. Director: Daragh Wills; Music Director: David Barr. Bookings: osmad.com.au
■ Heidelberg Theatre Company Youth: The Tale of Pinocchio (by Ryan Purdey, Erich Fordham) December 5 – 13 at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Directed by Ryan Purdey and Sean Tessari. Bookings: htc.org.au Cheryl Threadgold
Entertainment
Australian Music Prize
■ The winner has been announced for the 21st SoundMerch Australian Music Prize, described as 'Australia’s most prestigious award recognising and honouring the creative accomplishments of Australian musicians'.
This year’s winner is Ninajirachi with ‘I Love My Computer’.
Ninajirachi has been awarded $50,000 prize money and joins previous winners including Kankawa Nagarra (2024), RVG (2023), King Stingray (2022), Genesis Owusu (2021) and The Avalanches (2020).
The prize is widely recognised as the most prestigious award for Australian recording artists and Australia's most coveted accolade in the music community.
Ninajirachi exploded on the Australian music scene this year with her hard-driving electronic precursor to her winning album ‘I Love My Computer’.
Hailing from the Central Coast, Ninajirachi has been making music for over a decade and drew attention from the industry with her track ‘Glass’, one of the Unearthed High finalists.
‘I Love My Computer’ includes catchy, glitchy, sweet yet explosive tunes, including ‘iPod Touch’, ‘Delete’ and ‘All I Am’, which have garnered millions of streams across platforms.
She has a tour kicking off at the end of November across Australia, New Zealand and the USA where she is set to play Coachella. With eight ARIA Award nominations, Ninajirachi can now add 21st SoundMerch Australian Music Prize winner to her fast-growing accolades.
“Thank you so much to the Australian music prize for awarding me this year, this truly means a lot to me," says Ninajirachi
"I’m so proud to have produced an Australian album. I Love My Computer drew from my growing up on the central coast and the Australian dance music I heard in my childhood.
“To sincerely contribute to the awesome story of Australian music was one of my highest hopes. I hope I can keep making albums and telling stories forever. Thank you so much, I’m so honoured to receive this award.”
The AMP works via a three-stage judging system with a panel of established musicians, music retailers and music media listening to every eligible album.
Each judge must agree to listen to randomly
More Shows
■ Essendon Theatre Company: Significant Other (by Joshua Harmon) November 27 –December 6 at the Bradshaw Street Community Hall, Bradshaw Street, Essendon. Director: George Benca. Bookings: essendontheatrecompany.com.au
■ The Basin Theatre Group: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (by CS Lewis, adapted by Glen Robbins) November 27 –December 7 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Jason Triggs. Bookings: 0494 065 006. ■ Essendon Theatre Company: Significant Other (by Joshua Harmon) November 27 –December 6 at the Bradshaw Street Community Hall, Bradshaw Street, Essendon. Director: George Benca. Bookings: essendontheatrecompany.com.au
Auditions
■ Peridot Theatre Company: A Night on the Tiles (by Suzanne Hoswley) November 24 and 26 at 7pm at Fleigner Hall, Cnr Highland and Turnbull Avenues, Oakleigh East. Director: Samsara Dunstan. Audition bookings/enquiries; samsaradunston@ gmail.com, or 0412 415 159.
■ Malvern Theatre Company: The Visit (by Friedrich Dürrenmatt) November 23 and 24 at 6.30om at 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East. Director: Andrew Ferguson. Audition bookings: Andrew Ferguson apferguson@ bigpond.com
■ Torquay Theatre Troupe: The Gift (by Joanna Murray Smith) November 29 at 11am; November 30 at 2pm at the Shoestring Playhouse at The MAC, 77 Beach Rd., Torquay. Director: Natasha Boyd. Audition bookings (by appointment only): ttt.org.au/ auditions
■ The 1812 Theatre: The Ladykillers (by Graham Linehan) November 30 at 1pm and December 1 at 7pm at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Susan Rundle. Audition enquiries: Susan Rundle theatre@psrundle.com Cheryl Threadgold
assigned albums, in full, at least once before filing a judgment. They must also agree to notify AMP administration of any personal and/ or business connections to the artists who have eligible albums.
In stage two, the panel of judges listens to the nominated albums and works with the Prize Director to determine which albums will form the Shortlist (nine albums). Finally, in stage 3, the panel of judges meet, face-to-face, to decide on one winner.
Launched in 2005, The AMP celebrates a milestone of existing to discover, reward and promote new Australian music of excellence. australianmusicprize.com.au
Cheryl Threadgold
Meow Meow’s
The Red Shoes
■ International cabaret star Meow Meow returns to Melbourne this month with Meow Meow’sTheRedShoes, described as 'a wildly inventive, darkly funny and achingly beautiful reimagining of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairytale,' playing from November 19 - December 6 at the Merlyn Theatre, Malthouse
Drawing on the myth of a young girl who cannot stop dancing, Meow Meow explores the seduction of desire, the fragility of identity, and the hunger for transcendence that drives every performer to step back into the spotlight, again and again.
The beguiling fairytale offers audiences a cabaret spectacle that' leans into frenzy, ferocity and joy, with a wink, a gasp and more than a little mischief.'
Directed by Kate Champion (Artistic Director of Black Swan State Theatre Company), Meow Meow is joined on stage by a live ensemble of virtuosic musicians and collaborators, including Kanen Breen, Mark Jones, Dan Witton and Jethro Woodward, with musical direction and sound design by Jethro Woodward, set and costume design by Dann Barber and lighting design by Rachel Burke
MeowMeow’sTheRedShoes is the third in a trilogy of Hans Christian Andersen adaptations created and performed by the venerated artiste, following on from the success of Meow Meow’s Little Mermaid (2017) and Meow Meow'sLittleMatchGirl(2012).
Meow Meow is widely celebrated as one of the world’s most electrifying and genre-defying performers.
Her ‘kamikaze cabaret’ has been hailed across international stages from the Sydney Opera House to London’s West End, Lincoln Center and the Berlin Philharmonic.
Known for her ability to shatter the conventions of cabaret while maintaining a deep musicality and razor-sharp theatrical intelligence, she has collaborated with artists and companies including Pina Bausch’s Tanztheater Wuppertal, Mikel Rouse, Barry Humphries and the London Philharmonic Orchestra
Performance Season: November 19 - December 6
Venue: Merlyn Theatre, Malthouse, 113 Sturt St., Malthouse. Tickets are on sale now at malthousetheatre.com.au
Cheryl Threadgold
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John Foreman
■ Conductor John Foreman and New Year Concerts have been favourites in Melbourne’s December music calendar for many years.
But this year John is expanding beyond the usual NewYear’sEveandTheDayBefore concerts to add in several other December shows.
First cab off John’s musical rank is The GreatChristmasSingalong on December 20, starring Melbourne musical powerhouse Silvie Paladino , singing Christmas favourites but with the chance for the audience to sing along to some favourite carols.
Just before Christmas, on December 22 and 23, musical chameleon Bernadette Robinson takes to the stage with her show called TheySangAtCarnegieHall, a musical tribute to the great female singers of recent years, including Barbra Streisand, Shirley Bassey, Judy Garland and many more.
After just two days off for Christmas, John Foreman joins with AustralianIdolsuccess stories Casey Donovan, Rob Mills and Paulini to perform TheIdolsofMusicalTheatre, as they bring the best of Broadway to life on December 27 and 28.
Rounding out the season are the popular NewYear’sEveandTheDayBeforeConcerts, starring Marina Prior, who is just back from a successful season as Madame Thenadier in Les Misérables on London’s West End. She will be joined by former West End star Simon Gleeson, Australian musical theatre leading lady Lucy Durack, and the Dana Jolly dancers for two concerts of favourite songs. At the helm of all the concerts is John Foreman and his Australian Pops Orchestra, doing what they do best – entertaining people.
Buying a ticket to one of these concerts could solve gift-giving problems. Visit apoconcerts.com for more information and to buy tickets.
Julie Houghton
Cast announced
■ The Melbourne cast for LoveActually? TheMusicalParodyhas been announced. It returns to the Athenaeum Theatre from December 5.
Mitchell Groves (Cruel90sMusical) plays Colin Firth (Jamie), and Belinda Jenkin (Friends!TheMusicalParody) stars as glowing newlywed Keira Knightley (Juliet).
Jeremy Harland performs as Liam Neeson (Daniel) while Ian Andrew (Midnight:The CinderellaMusical,ThoroughlyModern Millie) plays the awkward Prime Minister Hugh Grant (David).
Devoted wife Emma Thompson (Karen) is played by Sophie Loughran (50Shadesof Grey-TheMusicalParody,TheBeautiful Game). Massimo Zuccara ( Opera Australia’sWestSideStory) will perform as Peter, Juliet’s husband.
2026 program
■ Monash University Museum of Art MUMA, Australia’s leading university art museum, has announced its 2026 exhibition program, a year-long exploration of belief and ways of knowing. Across four major exhibitions, leading Australian and international artists will probe mysticism, ancestral traditions, ritual and mythology.
● ● Ninajirachi, winner of the 21st SoundMerch Australian Music Prize.
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
Legends of the Skies Sulky Snippets
Aussie dominance in NZ
■ New Zealand’s biggest week of racing was held last week in Christchurch featuring the New Zealand Trotting Cup and the Dominion Trotting Handicap at Addington Raceway, Christchurch on Tuesday November 11, the Allied Security NZ Pacers Free For All and the New Zealand Free For All and the Azap Electrical NZ Trotting Free For All on Friday, the New Zealand Cup for Greyhounds also at Addington on Thursday and the New Zealand Cup for the gallopers at Riccarton on Saturday.
It was the Aussie dominance that prevailed when New South Wales trainer/driver Luke McCarthy was successful in the $1,000,000 IRT New Zealand Trotting Cup over 3200 metres and Queenslanders Chantal Turpin (trainer) and husband Pete McMullen (driver) successful in the $400,000 Renwick Farms Dominion Trotters Handicap again over the 3200 metre distance.
Four year old Always B MikiGotta Go Dali Queen entire Kingman was the victor of the NZ Cup and 6Y0 Majestic Son-Kylee Bee gelding Gus who captured the Dominion Trot making it a day which will be long remembered by all in attendance who witnessed these two great features.
It was an outstanding victory by Kingman in the Cup when having only his second standing start and after stepping safely from barrier nine on the front line settled a long was back one out six back in the running line as Pinseeker (barrier three) was best away before handing over to Mark Purdon and Akuta (barrier eight) who was immediately restrained to allow the highly fancied Republican Party (barrier four) with Carter Dalgety aboard for parents Cran and Chrissie to assume the front running, with Leap To Fame after also stepping cleanly from barrier five for Grant Dixon going forward to race exposed, a position he usually relishes.
There was not too many changes through the middle stages with Kingman easing three wide from well back racing for the bell to improve his position only to be trapped wide for the remainder of the race.
Turning in front, Republican Party was passed on straightening by Leap To Fame, with Kingman in a staggering performance claiming the pair and Merlin switching back to the inside to put in his claim following a great drive by Zac Butcher looking most dangerous, however it was Kingman who’s effort was nothing short of sensational to gain the prize by one and a quarter lengths in a 1-58 mile rate (last half 57.2 – quarter 30.3) over a game Leap to Fame who refused to give in. Merlin (one/three) had his chance finishing third a half length back after switching down to the inside and looking a big chance as the post came into view, with rank outsider Better Knuckle Up a half length away fourth.
Owner Mick Harvey has enjoyed plenty of success over the years with both harness horses and gallopers, but this by far gave him his greatest thrill.
The Dominion Trotters Handicap was a thriller with four Australians lining up, they being the favourite Jilliby Ballerina, second elect Arcee Phoenix, Parisian Artiste and the winner Gus.
Beginning safely from barrier five on the second line, Gus wasn’t
bustled at the start given plenty of time to find his rhythm, settling seven back in the running line as Maui began fast from the pole before being crossed by One Over All (barrier four), Mighty Logan (barrier seven), and Jilliby Ballerini (barrier two) which had pressed forward once positions were made to take over after all had done their share of work in the first 1000 metres with Arcee Phoenix (one/one) vacating the prime spot shortly after to assume control
Set alight four wide in the last lap with a rush to lead on the final bend, Gus held a two and a quarter length margin to the wire, recording a 2-02.7 mile rate (last half mile 58.1 – quarter 30.5) over Mr Love (barrier eight – one/one last lap), with Oscar Bonavena (gate nine) making up plenty of ground from well back for third a half neck away. Jilliby Ballerini was fourth a half neck back after obtaining a clear run from three pegs in the straight. Arcee Phoenix weakened badly to finish thirteenth.
Mighty Logan (sixth) was luckless and should have finished much closer after being held up badly from the home turn and angling wide in the straight.
Australia dominated on the Friday with four winners – Bold EagleKennys Dream colt Kyvalley Ray scoring in the $120,000 (Group 1) IRT Sires Stakes Championship for two year olds over 1980 metres for Bolinda’s Brent Lilley, Love YouCyclone Jeter filly Tracy The Jet for Myrniong’s Jess Tubbs the $500,000 Majestic Horsefloats LP ‘The Acent’, a Slot Race over 1980 metres, 6Y0 Majestic Son-Kylie Ree gelding Gus the $100,000 1980 metre Azap Electrical NZ Trotting Free For All for Chantal Turpin and Pete McMullen, while champion 6Y0 entire Leap To Fame Bettors Delight-Lettucereason) made amends for his close second on Tuesday to take the $200,000 (Group 1) Allied Security NZ Pacers Free For All over 1980 metres for Grant Dixon.
Kyvalley Ray driven by New Zealander Blair Orange raced parked from gate five, proving too tough for the pacemaker Petite Amour (gate three) and Who’s Ya Daddy (gate two) in a mile rate of 1-57.5.
Tracy The Jet (gate three) with James Herbertson in the sulky led throughout to account for Gatesys Gem in 1-56.7 which trailed from the pole to give Victoria the quinella. Gus starting from the extreme draw was again breathtaking after going forward three wide to join the odds-on favourite Jilliby Ballerini with a circuit to travel.
Applying pressure prior to the home turn, Gus raced clear to score by a neck from Muscle Mountain (gate five) who was always handy, with Oscar Bonavena who was gigantic on Tuesday rattling home from a mile back from inside the second line for third a further neck away. The mile rate 1-57.
Grant Dixon’s Leap To Fame starting outside the front line went forward in customary fashion after being trapped wide to assume control from Republican Party (gate seven) and defied all challengers to record a three quarter of a length margin over Republican Party along the sprint lane, with Merlin a game third from inside the second line after being left exposed from the bell third one and a half lengths back. The mile rate 1-53.7. Len Baker
■ LegendsoftheSkies(LOTS)Series 13 performance season was timely in that it marked the 90th Anniversary of when Charles Kingsford Smith lost his life, on crashing into the Andaman Sea . Known also as the Burma Sea off Thailand, ‘Smithy’ and co-pilot John Thompson ‘Tommy’ Pethybridge were attempting a flight in the Lady Southern Cross, to break the England-Australia speed record. Their bodies were never recovered.
The production honoring Sir Charles Edward Kingsford Smith MC, AFC , staged in the historic Casey HangAr at the Moorabbin Air Museum e xplored the Man, the Myth and the Mystery written by playwright Alison Knight. Another gem of hers.
Not an easy task putting so many events into script around Kingsford Smith, for he had as many ups as he had downs.
More so ,bringing these events to life under the artistic direction and dramaturg of Maggie Morrison required a responsive and capable cast. That she assembled.
There were many highlights on a stage well devised with a set of wings spread across the stage, with some pilot seats under and a single propeller in front centre stage, so formed that it operated when flight was required. Well done set construction of Graeme Hanks and Sam Withington.
Taking us through Smithy’s events were three Narrators, Annie Marrie Pollard, Cheryllyn de Vries and Pia Maganov who combined well and also backed the many explanatory vocals led harmoniously by guitarist Bob Hook.
Also linking us to the many heroics and not so successful life events was LOTS stalwart David Dodds giving us a number of classic lines.
While not dwelling on the story, two brothers Christian and Sebastian Jones made their mark on the production, each notably portraying several characters.
Having witnessed many past performances of well-seasoned actor Damian Vuleta, here he shone and certainly provided an absorbing character portrayal as Charles Kingsford Smith.
His ability to portray the many traits of Kingsford Smith was commanding and added well to our understanding of Smithy’s persona.
Yes ‘Smithy’ has been quoted as the world’s greatest airman, while Kingsford Smith himself once said that, “ the hardest thing about flying is the ground”.
Another well researched and performance production by LOTS Review by Graeme McCoubrie
Rourke’s Reviews
Sisu: Road To Revenge
■ (MA). 88 minutes. Opens in cinemas November 20.
After mutilating Nazis in Sisu (2022), the stoic, silent and unstoppable hero returns in Sisu: RoadToRevengeto do the same to the Russians, and if you thought the first film was ultraviolent, you ain’t seen nothing yet.
The year is 1946, and WWII is over. As part of an agreement, Finland has to concede some of its land to the Soviet Union, and thousands of displaced people have to move over the newly created border, but unfortunately many didn’t survive the journey.
Travelling into this occupied territory is Aatami Korpi (Jorma Tommila), who wants to visit the home where his wife two young children were murdered.
Taking the wooden house apart, Korpi loads his truck with what he considers valuable cargo, and begins his trip back to the border crossing and into his home country.
Suddenly blocking his way is Igor Draganov (Stephen Lang) , the Russian commander who killed Korpi’s family during the war, hired by a General (Richard Brake) to terminate the Finnish soldier, who thanks to Draganov’s genocidal orders, has created a legend.
As their confrontations escalate, via different modes of transport (trucks, tanks, planes, etc), the body count sky rockets, as Korpi will stop at nothing to take down the person who took his family away from him.
While Sisu was more sombre and moody, the sequel is, after a slow start, a pure blast of adrenaline, taking the premise laid down in the original and turning it up to the max, with realism taking a back seat to a series of growingly outrageous set-pieces.
But if you expect it to be merely a repetitious rehash of the first film, think again.
A knowing, constantly hilarious sense of humour (usually physical) shows that returning writer/ director Jalmari Helander (Rare Exports) knows what he is doing, and has thought about what he wants to put on screen, while clearly being influenced by filmmakers such as George Miller, Sam Raimi and Paul Verhoeven.
Tommila again makes for an imposing figure, convincing us he can survive numerous battles and beatings.
Two successful additions to this world are Lang and Brake , perfectly cast as the brutal villains, while also acknowledging the humour that is threaded throughout the bloody mayhem.
One has to ask how this managed to only receive an MA rating, as it is far gorier than its predecessor.
Sisu:RoadToRevengeis absolutely bonkers in the best way, taking the material, as well as its main character, to a whole new level.
It also doesn’t outstay its welcome (something a lot of modern action films unfortunately do), running a wonderfully lean 88 minutes.
If Helander decides to do a third film, it will be genuinely fascinating to see what on earth he comes up with, as Part Two takes things just about as far as they can go.
RATING - ****
The Sadness
■ (R). 100 minutes. Now streaming on Shudder.
Not for the squeamish or easily offended, The Sadness is a genuinely memorable experience, whether you want it to be or not, but the non-stop atrocities occurring onscreen thankfully have a point behind them.
Set in the Taiwan capital, Taipei City, the story begins quietly, with young couple Kat (Regina Lei) and Jim (Berant Zhu) waking up one morning, and are soon talking about a possible trip away together.
The country is attempting to recover from a virulent pandemic, with the government trying to act as if everything is okay again, despite the misgivings of renowned epidemiologists, who are warning of a new, mutant variation of the original virus.
Jim rides Kat to work on his motorcycle, but when he goes to a nearby cafe to get something to eat, those warnings of a new outbreak quickly become a horrifying reality, with the virus causing the infected to indulge in their deepest, darkest desires.
The two lovers desperately try to reunite, before society collapses completely.
Like the highly uneven 2020 Taiwanese horror/comedy Get The Hell Out, The Sadness also criticises its government, but here it specifically targets various mistakes made during the COVID outbreak.
What one can also interpret from what is unfolding onscreen, is an ominous, highly disturbing vision of what might happen to Taiwanese citizens if China decides to take their country by force.
With conspiracy theories successfully overriding science, facts and common sense in some sectors of the community, debutant writer/director Rob Jabbaz presents the material in an aggressive, inyour-face manner, seemingly infuriated that the truth can be so easily dismissed in favour of ridiculous ideals someone conveniently wants to believe, or use for political gain.
Subtlety is not this film’s strong suit, but after so much that has occurred over the past two years, Jabbaz has decided that to make his point effectively, brutally blunt is the way to go.
Zhu, and especially Lei, are natural and likeable, and prove crucial to the film’s overall success, as they give the audience someone to connect with, and hang on to, as the mayhem around them becomes more and more grotesque.
Even seasoned horror fans may flinch at the movie’s graphic, confronting set-pieces, made more unsettling by the extremely convincing make-up effects.
TheSadness is hardcore entertainment, but not mindless, with a talented film-maker backing up his gory imagery with messages that are dour and darkly pessimistic. RATING - ****
● ● Sir Charles Kingsford-Smith
● ● ● ● Aaron Rourke
What’s On What’s What’s
■ Sweetness has become the signature flavor of Jiashi County, China. A travel campaign is promoting the region’s plum and melon sectors in the rich area of the Kashgar Prefecture
Wildlife
■ Samara Karoo Reserve is one of Africa’s most compelling examples of ecological restoration. Tucked away in the vast, sun-soaked heart of South Africa’s Great Karoo lies a reserve where wildlife is not only protected — it is being brought back to life. Samara’s impact stretches far beyond its 27,000 hectares. Aussie travellers can contact Where Wild Things Roam.
Access
■ Dubai Airports has enlisted Paralympian Jessica Smith, alongside Emirati disability rights expert Fatma Al Jassim, and Team AngelWolf as advisors to help make Dubai International the world's most accessible aairport.
■ Ciel Dubai Marina, Vignette Collection by IHG will this week transcend new heights as the world's tallest hotel with the highest infinity pool.
Spanning 82 floors and soaring to a height of 377 metres, Ciel Dubai Marina, is described as an architectural masterpiece.
Openining on Saturday (Nov. 15), publicists say it offers a new luxury hospitality experience defined by award-winning design, high-end guest experiences, exceptional facilities and stunning views.
Ciel Dubai Marina has been designed by awardwinning architect Norr, featuring an elegant “eye of the needle” shape.
The hotel will comprise 1004 luxuriously designed rooms and suites, all with floor-to-ceiling glass windows showcasing panoramic views of Palm Jumeirah, the Arabian Gulf, and Dubai’s skyline.
The hotel offers direct access to Dubai Marina’s world-class dining, shopping and attractions.
See details in the La Cantina advertisement, inside this section
$9.99 bus
■ FlixBus s introducing its first Australian routes, connecting Melbourne, Canberra and Sydney from November 20. To mark the launch, fares will start at just $9.99 until the end of November.
For women
■ Vibrant Women Homestay is a newly launched platform which connects female travellers with vetted female hosts who offer spare rooms within their own homes. The platform says it the rising demand for safe, affordable travel for women and the growing strain of the housing crisis
Meatstock
■ Meatstock, Australia’s one-of-a-kind music and barbecue festival, is coming to the rolling hills of Lardner Park, Warragul (Vic.), in 2026. The u weekend of "BBQ, Bands, and Bedlam" will take place on Friday-Saturday, , April 1718. There will be on-site camping available.
● ● Ciel Dubai Marina soars above the heart of Dubai Marina.
Bush Telegraph
Preventing Bird flu
■ Victoria is ramping up its biosecurity defences against H5N1 bird flu, with new federal support to boost emergency preparedness and rapid response capabilities.
As part of a $100 million national biosecurity package, the Federal Government is investing $1.7 million in equipping Victoria with testing technology and specialised field response tools.
Land unlocked
■ The State Government is unlocking industrial land across Victoria. Planning is underway to unlock key sites in Merrifield North, Derrimut Fields, Altona North and Hastings, along with regional employment precincts in Ballarat, Bendigo, Parwan and Avalon
Access ‘coercion’
■ Farmers in the path of the controversial VNI West Transmission Project are set to be steamrolled following the issuing of Section 93 notices to landholders along the proposed VNI West transmission project route, effectively granting compulsory access to private land, says the Victorian Farmers Federation.
VFF President Brett Hosking said the timing and manner of this move is deplorable and demonstrates a complete lack of respect for farmers’ rights and businesses.
“Forcing access to farms at one of the busiest times of year, at the height of harvest, a time when biosecurity and protection of the crop is paramount shows just how out of touch this process has become.”
■ Rural Aid has announced the appointment of Jess Webb to its Board of Directors.
Ms Webb brings extensive experience in agribusiness, governance, and rural community development, further strengthening Rural Aid’s commitment to supporting Australian farming communities.
Ms Webb has served on several for-purpose and nonprofit boards, including Beef Australia, where she is ViceChair, and The Armidale School Foundation, where she contributes to fundraising and strategic growth initiatives.
With a background in communications and strategy in agribusiness, and hands-on experience operating an Angus beef cattle enterprise in the New England region, Ms Webb has a deep understanding of the issues facing rural and regional Australia
Whiparound Touring grants
■ Colin Brooks, Minister for Creative Industries, has announced the opening of applications for the Touring Victoria grant program which provides between $10,000 and $150,000 for Victorian artists and creative organisations to take their events to regional and outer-metropolitan Victoria, reaching new audiences and building professional networks.
Aircraft deployed
■ Victoria has strengthened its bushfire preparedness by deploying firefighting aircraft ahead of schedule to key parts of the state. State Government officials met crews and viewed the firefighting aircraft which are now at Ballarat
A total of 15 regional aircraft will start their service period early in key locations including Ballarat, Stawell and Ovens Valley. These aircraft can be moved across the state according to risk.
Mounting ramp
■ The Hepburn Shire Council received a grant to construct an accessible equestrian mounting ramp at the Glenlyon Recreation Reserve
The recently completed ramp assists horse riders of all abilities to participate in the local pony club, adult riding club and Riding for the Disabled Association of Australia activities. Applications for the next round of grants from the Tiny Towns Fund are now open.
● ● New Rural Aid Director Jess Webb, with husband, Hamish, and children Angus, Willa and Walter
Places To Go Revamp for Bayside Geelong Hotel
■ A new chapter has begun for Choice Hotels' Bayside Geelong Hotel and Apartments, an Ascend Collection Hotel, unveiling the first stage of a multi-million-dollar redevelopment of their waterfront property.
The transformation of the circa 1962 property, originally known as Hamilton Hume Motor Inn and more recently Quality Hotel Bayside Geelong, re-emerges as a 4.5-star, 110room boutique hotel, delivering a new level of luxury and sophistication to the region's accommodation offering.
The project is already making a significant economic impact, generating approximately 300 construction jobs and creating 75 operational roles.
Once complete in late 2026, the hotel will feature a striking new façade and a fine-dining restaurant with sweeping views of Corio Bay.
Stage one is now complete and has
Geelong Hotel
seen 60 per cent of the original structure demolished to make way for:
■ a new lobby and guest arrival space
■ Franca's Ristorante, an all-day Italian-inspired dining venu
■ 79 newly built guest rooms with premium finishes and thoughtful design
■ seven flexible meeting and event spaces
■ a fitness centre, sauna, and indoor lap pool with accessibility hoist.
Kevin Robe, General Manager, Bayside Geelong Hotel and Apartments, said the redevelopment is about more than just bricks and mortar.
“We're creating a hotel that reflects the spirit of Geelong – its history, its people, and its future.
“From the architecture and interiors to the smallest design details, we've drawn inspiration from our
stunning bayfront location, the region's wool and textile heritage, and its Indigenous roots,” he said.
“We're proud to offer a contemporary, inclusive, and welcoming space for travellers from across Victoria, interstate and overseas – whether they're here for business, leisure, or one of the region's many iconic events.”
Inclusivity and accessibility have been a key focus in the refurbishment plans, with 10 accessible rooms, including seven twin share options ideal for families, carers, and guests travelling together.
Sustainability is also front and centre, with the hotel incorporating energy and water-saving technology, including a 100kW solar array, Energy Recovery Ventilation in guest rooms and common areas, doubleglazed windows and smart LED lighting controls throughout.
Caravans, Camping
Crusader
launches
new brand
■ Crusader Caravans has unveiled a new second brand, Dreamhaven, created to offer Australians greater access to high-quality, locally made caravans at an affordable price.
Dreamhaven combines Crusader’s decades of award-winning experience with practical design and quality full composite construction.
Each caravan is built to deliver comfort, style and durability at a price that competes directly with imported models.
Crusader Caravans Founder and CEO Serge Valentino said the new brand was born from a clear gap in the market.
“We saw a real opportunity to create Aussie-made caravans that are both highquality and affordable. The Dreamhaven range reflects our belief that caravanning should be simple, practical and accessible by more Australians,” Mr Valentino said.
“Dreamhaven delivers a simple range of high-quality full composite caravans, created for buyers seeking a straightforward and well-priced option. We’re talking darn good caravans at a darn good price.”
With models starting from just $250 per week or $68,990 RRP*, the Dreamhaven range offers an entry point for outdoor adventurers who might have previously relied on tents, cabins, camper trailers or older caravans.
The new product range features five layouts, with on-road and off-road versions available, for a total of 10 individual models. The range caters to all sectors of the market from solo travellers and couples, right through to families.
Decades of industry know-how ensures the caravans offer everything needed; all housed in a high-quality build.
The Tourline series (On road) offers all the essentials for comfortable highway cruising and comforts for the perfect getaway. The Series X (Off road) offers upgraded rugged features for tackling challenging tracks, including independent suspension, without breaking the bank.
Places To Go Places To Go
Family holidays
■ UltimateFamilyHolidays:Australiais described by publishers Hardie Grant as a musthave guide, packed with travel inspiration, featuring 65 experiences from around the country.
The publication is organised in useful themes including: staycations, walks and wilderness, culture and curiosity, holiday parks and farm stays, wildlife encounters, swim spots, thrill-seeker adventures, epic stays and just for fun.
Author Catherine Best suggests that readers check out an array of kid-friendly options at bucket-list destinations including Uluru, Rottnest Island/Wadjemup, Cairns and Sydney
“Ditch the schoolbooks and learn by immersion at cultural highlights like the Dinosaur Trail in outback Queensland, or simply enjoy a gardenful of fun at Gnomesville in Western Australia
“Whatever your family’s holiday fancy UltimateFamilyHolidays:Australiahas got you covered, and also includes helpful hints on where to sleep, eat and visit - including budget-friendly options.”
Catherine Best is an award-winning travel journalist, magazine editor and storyteller who has been writing professionally for more than 25 years.
She started her career as a news reporter, when journalism seemed like a logical outlet for someone destined to write, but soon discovered there was more beauty and joy in travel writing than being part of the 24/7 news’ cycle.
It’s in nature – climbing mountains, scuba diving and camping in the outback – where Catherine finds her greatest inspiration and connection to place.
Sharing in her passion for wild places are her three kids and husband, who are her favourite travelling companions. When not off on an adventure, you will find Catherine at home in Melbourne with her three musket-
teers, consoling the labradoodle, who is too often left behind, and planning the next mods on her family caravan.
Catherine’s first book, Ultimate Caravan Trips: Australia, was published by Hardie Grant in 2022.
Boost for Xiqing
■ Yangliuqing Ancient Town in Xiqing District, north China's Tianjin, saw a surging influx of visitors, according to the publicity department of Xiqing District.
The exquisitely carved courtyard residences of the Ming and Qing dynasties, vividly rendered New Year paintings, and the winding ancient canal wove together into a living tapestry of folk culture.
Exploring Qld
Savannahlander
■ For the third year running, Cocky Guides, the not-for-profit accessible tour operator and partner of Sensory Tourism Australia, has returned to Queensland’s Gulf Savannah region aboard The Savannahlander, one of Australia’s most iconic rail journeys.
This season, a group of blind and lowvision travellers have been exploring highlights such as Chillagoe Caves, Cobbold Gorge and the Undara Lava Tubes
Along the way, they’re also contributing to the local economy and building connections with communities in Almaden, Chillagoe, Mount Surprise and Forsayth
James ‘Buck’ McFarlane, Director and Co-founder of Sensory Tourism Australia, said: “While we could visit this region by bus, The Savannahlander team enriches the journey with storytelling, trackside whistle stops and their close ties to the communities they serve.
“For our travellers, who rely on senses beyond sight, this makes the experience far more personal and meaningful.”
Traveller Graham Coulton agrees: “This is my second time on The Savannahlander, and both trips have been completely different depending on the attractions and accommodation chosen.
“As a low-vision traveller, I find the train incredibly accessible. Last year I touched Cobbold Gorge ; this year I’m excited to explore more of the Lava Tubes at Undara Volcanic National Park and soak up the atmosphere of true bush hospitality.”
While recent uncertainty around required infrastructure works cast doubt over the future of The Savannahlander , the Queensland Government has confirmed its support for this much-loved rail journey as it celebrates its 30th season.
Sensory Tourism Australia delivers supported travel year-round across Australia’s gateway cities, including Sydney, Melbourne and Cairns, and is seeking regional tourism organisations and local government partners to help grow inclusive tourism experiences.
●
● Ultimate Family Holidays by Catherine Best
SeniorsNews Melbourne
Senior Service
Retirement living more affordable
Queensland.
■ New research shows retirement living is becoming a more affordable option, due to soaring house prices and rents. It also frees p much needed housing for the wider community.
Stewart Brown’s latest RetirementLivingPerformanceSurveyReportshows the median entry costs for a two-bedroom retirement living unit is equivalent to just 53 per cent of the median house price in the surrounding suburb, rising to 66 per cent for three-bedroom units.
The lower entry cost allows retirees to stay in the same community, close to family and friends, while freeing up equity from their homes to boost savings and reduce financial stress.
When then-62-year-old Karen Cook moved into her retirement village at Victoria Point 7½-years ago, she wasn’t planning an early retirement - she was looking for a lifeline for her husband, Paul
“He’d become quite reclusive because of his Parkinson’s [disease],” says the 62year-old. “There’s lots of activities here, and I thought it might give him some life again.”
Karen was still working part-time when they decided to leave the Gold Coast, where they had lived for 36 years, and downsize.
“We just said, okay, this is what we need to do. I got onto Airtasker, got the house ready, and we were here within 12 weeks. I’m a bit of a goer - a doer, so I just put my mind to it,” she says.
She encourages those in a similar position to start sooner rather than later.
“They think, ‘I can’t possibly downsize I’ve got all the kids’ schoolbooks and tools in the garage’. But then it becomes overwhelming. I tell people: don’t wait until you can’t manage,” she says.
Now 69, Karen’s two-bedroom groundfloor unit sits among leafy gardens just a short walk from the bay, where Paul used to cast a line and watch the water.
When he passed away, Karen briefly considered moving back to the Gold Coast or joining her daughter in Sydney
But the reality of soaring house prices and the comfort of community kept her put. “You can close the door, lock the unit and off you go. You know it’s pretty safe. People keep an eye out for you,” she says.
Ageing Australia CEO Tom Symondson said the results add to findings from last year’s Catalyst Research Report showing people in retirement living consistently report higher rates of happiness and wellbeing than all older Australians. Those in a Retirement Community scored significantly higher on the Catalyst Wellness Index (77.5) compared with the average for all older Australians (71.3).
OLDER PEOPLE HAVE RIGHT TO DECIDE
■ The new rights-based AgedCareAct, which commenced on November 1, affords older Australians with greater independence and autonomy, says the Older Persons Advocacy Network
“The overhaul of the Act is long overdue generational reform, with demand for aged care projected to grow dramatically due to Australia’s ageing population,” said a represebntative for the Network.
“A new AgedCareAct, framed in rights of the older person, was the number one recommendation of the Royal Commission into Quality and Safety in Aged Care’s final report 4½ years ago.
“The Actreinforces that older people have the right to make their own decisions, with appropriate support if they need it.
“For registered supporters, the new regime also introduces clear responsibilities and consequences, ensuring that the autonomy and voice of the older person is respected in all decisions about their care and life.”
Older Persons Advocacy Network CEO Craig Gear said the hallmark of the new Act is a Statement of Rights.
“This is an exciting new chapter for the sector, older Australians, carers and providers,” Mr Gear said.
“At its core is the recognition that older people remain at the centre of their care, supported by those they trust - whether that’s a family member, friend, advocate or provider.
“This is a transformational shift in power dynamics, and it is imperative that older people are empowered to make informed decisions that benefit them.”
Along with the new Act comes strengthened quality standards and greater protections for older people receiving aged care.
It also sees the commencement of the Support at Home Program which has higher levels of support, more packages and benefits such as restorative care pathways.
There is also an end-of-life pathway to support people who choose to die at home.
“Like with most significant reforms, there will probably be teething issues, as the changes have yet to be tested,” Mr Gear said.
● Greg Gear, CEO
Senior Moments
$75m request
■ Community Health First, representing Victoria’s 22 independent registered community health services, has released its 2026–27 Victorian Budget Submission, calling for a strategic investment of $75 million per year to unlock better health outcomes, reduce hospital demand and improve health equity across the state.
Pay goes up
■ Many aged care workers across Australia are receiving a long overdue boost to their pay packets, following the success of the Health Services Union’s landmark aged care work value case.
A personal care worker will now earn $34.60 an hour. This is the final stage of wage increases stemming from the aged care work value case, which was lodged by the Health Services Union in the Fair Work Commission in November 2020.
Since the increases began in 2023, a personal care worker’s pay is now up from $23.20 an hour – an extra $433 per week.
One-in-seven
■ One-in-seven Australian women risk being diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, with 58 people diagnosed daily
Over 10,000 working-age Australian women diagnosed in 2022 will lose an estimated $1.4 billion in wages over the next decade, says Breast Cancer Trials.
in
of
connection, and creativity”, according to tghe local Council. Throughout last month, a record 1000 seniors across the Shire participated in more than 30 events, all designed to elebrate the contributions of our older residents. The events included the enchanting, guided bush walks in Gembrook to the d high tea events, and the festival showcased a diverse range of activities that fostered connections among attendees.
● ● ● ● Karen Cook and her late husband Paul moved into retirement living in
■ \I met Betty McQuade only once, at the Preston TownHall for the 41st anniversary of The Thunderbirds in1998.
In my mind’s eye I can still see the crowd gathered around the stage that night listening to Betty singing MidnightBus. It was like they were entranced by her beautiful singing voice.
My only bad memory of the night was that I recorded a radio interview with famous radio disc jockey Stan Rofe but the tape did not come out.
But it was great to interview Betty and finally meet her. I had been a long time fan.
Betty McQuade had sung at the original Rock and Roll dance at the Preston Town Hall in 1961 working with The Thunderbirds, Billy Owens, Noel Watson and The Cherokees
Betty McQuade was born in Paisley, Scotland in 1941.
The family immigrated to Brisbane in 1949. Betty always wanted to be a singer.
When she left school she worked in an office job. In 1955 Betty won a local talent quest in Brisbane and went on to perform at the famous Cloudland venue which was then owned by Ivan Dayman.
Betty McQuade appeared with Johnny O’Keefe and Col Joye at Festival Hall in Brisbane.
She moved to Melbourne in 1960 to pursue her singing career. Luckily her timing could not have been better and Betty was soon singing at local dances backed by The Thunderbirds.
My mate Peter Robinson was bass player
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
Whatever Happened To ... Betty McQuade
By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM
and also vocalist for The Thunderbirds. In the early 1950s Peter and I lived in Gilmour St, Coburg and we played together as youngsters before Peter’s family moved to Pascoe Vale
In 1961 Betty recorded the John D. Loudermilk composition MidnightBusfor Astor Records
The song went to number five on the hit parade in Melbourne but it wasn’t a hit in Perth and Brisbane until it was rereleased on the Go label in 1965.
When the teenage television series The Go Showbegan on ATV0 in 1964 Betty was a regular performer on the program.
Some of Betty’s recordings included Blue Train,Bobby,Bobby,Bobbyand YouMakeMe Mad. She also released the EP – Betty McQuadeSings.
Betty recorded other songs during her career but none reached the heights of Midnight Bus. She became lead vocalist with another group, The Premiers, and continued to sing at local dances but decided to retire and return to Brisbane in 1968.
Betty was back in Melbourne working in the Myer accounts department during the 1970s and 1980s.
She took part in many revival concerts over the years and still had that magic sound onstage.
Over the years Betty had several long term boyfriends but never got around to getting married.
Betty McQuade passed away at her Brisbane home on Boxing Day 2011 and her sister Rachel commented in the obituary notice, “No more pain now Bet.” John D Loudermilk paid a great
compliment to Betty McQuade when he said her version of MidnightBuswas his favourite.
Betty had told me that whenever she sang Midnight Bus there would be three generations gathered around the stage - Those that were there when it was a hit in 1961, their children and their children’s children.
Not a bad legacy for this lovely lady of Rock and Roll in Australia
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
VOICE EXHIBITION AT MAROONDAH ESTATE GALLERY
Did Cliff mime his songs?
■ Could be true. Might be BS. The rumour is that evergreen Cliff Richard mimed songs during his Melbourne gig. It would not be surprising as Cliff has been singing most of his life and at 85 years of age his tonsils need a rest every so often. Cliff is the third biggest selling artist after The Beatles and Elvis Presley.
Stones flog favourite things
■ The Rolling Stones are having a clearance auction in London. Amongst the 185 items to go under the hammer is the first guitar owned by Brian Jones. The same guitar was used on first single released by The Stones The guitar could reach $400,000. Local auctioneer Martin Evans reckons the total of items could reach $1.3 million.
Good luck for next year
■ Next year promises to be a big, bold year for breakfast announcer Christian O'Connell of Gold 104.3. First of all, his show will go national, next he will release a new book titled Unscript ' with stories and lessons he has learnt in his 27 years on radio in the UK and Australia. The book is due out mid-year.
Great Aussie scroll
■ Research company Meltwater has released their Digital Report, Australia. It claims Australians spend 41 hours a week watching online, that's more time than the average Aussie spends working.
Aussie behaving badly
■ Johnson We n, aka The Pyjama Man , is unknown in Australia, his birthplace. In America he's a four-star nuisance. His latest exploit was to make a lunge towards
turned him over to the Feds, and he now faces a $1500 fine. John O’Keefe
Disillusion Disolution
Is a response to the outcome of the 2923 referendum on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.
The exhibition reflects artist megan even’s response to this outcome and her hope for an united and healing future – one where truth and integrity bridge divides – through painting, sculpture, video, and fabric.
Exhibition closes Friday, January 16.
★
Ritual Artefacts – Inga Hanover explores ancient yet enduring folklore rituals and ceremonies of indigenous Latvian traditions through textiles, sculpture and video.
These cultural practices are rooted in seasonal rhythms of solstice, carnivals and festivals, reflecting deep connections with the past.
Revisions: Made by the Warlpiri of Central Australia and Patrick Watwerhouse.
This groundbreaking body of work challenges colonial narratives and amends historical omissions.
It amplifies the voices of the people w hose stories and traditions have been passed down for generations.
After successful showing at The Whitby Museum (UK) and Rautenstrauch – Joseph -Museum (Germany), Burrinja presents this major Australian premiere, curated by Warjukurlangu artists and Patrick Waterhouse.
Over a period f 19 years, groups of Waripiri artists in Yuendumu and Nyirrpi (hundreds of kilometres north-west of Alice Springs) collaborated with internationally acclaimed London-based photographer to revise a collection of maps, flags, photographs, comic illustrations and other archival material.
The body of work emerging from this collaboration questions and amends the assumptions prescribed throughout the old documents.
It adds information missing from the historical record and gives voice to the stores of the original custodian of the land, passed down form generation to generation.
MakingRevisions, a documentary showing some of this process is also
The Arts
featured in the Exhibition. Closes Sunday, March 1.
Burrinja Artist Network Group Exhibition
Step into a kaleidoscope of creativity at Summer Salon, Burrinja’s annual group exhibition celebrating
the incredible talents of our local artists.
Featuring works from Burrinja Studio Artists and Artist Network members, Summer Salon brings together a dazzling array of styles. Mediums, and perspectives, from bold abstracts and delicate drawings o sculptural forms and experimental pieces.
Presented in a dynamic Salon Hang style, the Lyre Gallery will burst with colour, energy and inspiration.
★
The Burrinja Artist Network brings together a vibrant mix f artists at all stages of their creative journeys.
From those who lease studios at Burrinja to members of the wider artistic community, these creators unite to present diverse and inspiring group exhibitions throughout the year.
This showcase celebrates their unique perspectives, styles, and stories – a true reflection of the creative spirit that thrives within our region. Exhibition opens December 5 and closes February 1. Burrinja Gallery 351 Glenfern Rd, Upwey - Peter Kemp
La Mama vintage prints
■ La Mama Theatre will celebrate her history with a new limited edition print series available for purchase. Featuring four iconic reproductions from the 1960s and 70s, these prints pay tribute to the daring creativity that helped shape Australian theatre.
La Mama CEO and Artistic Director Caitlin Dullard said: “By purchasing one of these glorious prints, you’re not just celebrating La Mama’s history - you’re helping to shape her future.
“Australian theatre needs La Mama to continue this vital work that has long sustained and inspired the independent sector. These prints beautifully encapsulate the artist-led legacy we’re determined to carry forward.”
The prints capture a vivid period of Australian theatre where bold story ideas met equally bold graphic styles. Designed by Ian McCausland, Trina Parker, Bruce Spence, and Beth Parnaby, this series of four have been reproduced on Mohawk Archival Vellum, are individually numbered and certified by La Mama Theatre Melbourne, and come with a certificate of authenticity.
All proceeds go towards supporting La Mama’s continuing theatre work; making space for new writing, staging new performances, and ensuring that independent artists continue to have the opportunity to experiment, and to create new Australian work.
Single print: $200. Set of four prints: $700.
Kangaroo hops into place
● ● Betty McQuade
Where to pick up your free copy of The Local Paper
■
■ ■ ASHBURTON. Ashburton Newsagency. 168 High St.
Court Lists
Local Briefs
■ BALWYN. Balwyn Newsagency.
■
413 Whitehorse Rd.
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■ BALWYN. Coles Express. 449 Whitehorse Rd (Cnr Imaroo St).
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■ BALWYN. United Petroleum. 99 Balwyn Rd.
■
■ BAYSWATER. 7-Eleven. Cnr Scoresby Rd and High St.
■
■ BAYSWATER. Cellarbrations. 717 Mountain Hwy.
■ ■ BAYSWATER. Coles Express. 768 Mountain Hwy.
■ ■ BORONIA. Metro Boronia Cinemas. Dorset Square.
■ ■ WATTLE PARK. Wattle Park Licensed Post Office. 190 Elgar Rd
■ ■ WHEELERS HILL. Wheelers Hill Hotel. Cnr Ferntree Guilly Rd and Jells Rd.
Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court Criminal Court Listings Wednesday, November 19 Ahmad, Mougehed Ahmed, Tanveer Alashkar, Mohamed Almashhadi, Mohsen Andrews, Allison Arceri, Joe Baird, Victoria Ball, Dustin Barnes, Harley Beainy, George Beard, Jason Raymond Beasy, Warren Belhadj, Ahmed Black, Matthew Bowen, Tracey Boyse, Mark Anthony Brackley, Martin Lee Britton, Damien Brown, Alyssa Buhagiar, Brian Burnett, Tyler Jordyn Ceyran, Yakup Chauhan, Balbir Chebet, Dotty Chen, Kongqing Christodoulou, Janae Coghlan, Daniel Conroy, Elise Cooney, Brendan Cooper, Victoria Davies, Bradley Edward Davis, Cheyanne Duncan, Lisa Elmustapha, Youssef Eltoum, Ali Emrulov, Fadil Faraj, Adam Feraset, Ozan Fox, Tom Georgiou, Ekaterini Giacominato, Anthony Ernesto Gozel, Selim Hadi, Mariam Hamod, Charbel Harrison, Patricia Hassall, Benjamin Patrick Herni, Skot Holford, Kriston Icho, Banibal Issam, Yusuf Keen-Scott, Siobhan King, Jackson Robert Lacy, Bianca Lado, Dennis Lai, Sylvia Latkoska, Hristina Marinos, Vicky Mazar, Robert Mcgowan, Bonnie Mcgrath, Stephen Memedoski, Sebastian Mihaljovski, Allen Moloney, Luke Naccrout, Mahassen Nakdali, Mohammed Nepia, Aidan Newham, Kacey Noack, Michael Orlando, Christopher Tony Panev, Mile Pangallo, Jacinta Pappas, Cherie Piccinelli, Alexander Pilcher, Travis Pirini, Awa Prendergast, Joshua Priovolos, Adrian Prodger, Ngawaiata Psarologos, George Qadri, Emad Raffelle, Brent Ratnarajah, Anthony Reeves, Corey Rodda, Josh Saadat, Mohammad Sari, Ali Seath, Corey Sedawie, Robert Shaw, Aaron Taleb, Bader Tan, Mingqian Thomas, Matthew Alan Thorpe, Colleen Timmins, Corey Trimboli, Mario Wagg, Andrew Williams, Bruce Albert Witeri, John Youssef, Amelia Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court Criminal Court Listings Wednesday, November 19 161 Boundary Pty Ltd A & K Imperial Pty Ltd Abdou, Omar Akyol, Aleyna Arabi, Hayesan Askar, Ragheed Faris Bafkanli, Guner Bamblett-Edwards, Kea Barkho, Joseph Basit, Lisa Bernardo, Carmelo Bigay, Orhan Boone, Dylan Burke, Jake Stuart Burns, Shane Cabdi, Mahamed Cadman, Gary Cahill, Andrew
Cali, Celattin Celik, Furkan Chakik, Oday Chamma, Azam Clark, Belinda Christine Coburg Gardens Pty Ltd Collins, Beau Cougar Productions Pty Ltd Cullen, Alissia Maree Da Cunha, Tiana Dance, Trevor Deguara, Daniel Dell'albani, Amanda Demirtas, Serkan Divljan, Tiana Dogan, Ozkan Dwyer-Lewis, Joshua Elgammal, Careem Elhelwani, Mazen Eroglu, Burak Fenech, Aaron Field, Matthew Fisicaro, Giulia Flower, Michael Fong, Anika Freddura, Marco Galioto, Maria Gjorgjioski, Christian Guy, Courtney Hafda, Mustafa Hall, Calvin Robert Hastings, Steven Hayd, Ahmed Hayward, Meredith Sian Hingston, Graeme Hughes, Shaun Lesley Iaquinto, George Johnson, Simone Kaler, Manpreet Kamil, Kerim Kanoyangua, Diago Karaan, Josephine Karanfil, Samet Kaya, Halil Kelly, Damien Khan, Abdullah Khodr, Al Khodr, Khaled Kocakahya, Yusuf Kudsi, Sammy Kutny, Michael Lakeman, Edward Latimer, Harley Law, Tania Margaret Lee, Kristy Limosani, Nicole Lyons, Lawrence Cleveland Mansfield, Ashleigh Marks, Bradley Marsich, Tracey Mcdonald, Thomas Leslie Mcmahon, Jusstene Mekhael, Prince Mellish, Anthony Mihailovic, Ben Miller, Jacinta Miller, Kyrre Mina, Mouhamed Mirsa Pty Ltd Missiris, Harrison Mohamed, Mohamed Mourani, Jenifer Moustafa, Hadi Munro, Tyler Mutic, Nidal Najib, Lina Niehus, Edward O'connor, Sharron Oraha, Aeleen Park, Cody Pearn, Makayla Pgrf Holdings Australia Pty Ltd Pollock, Zeke Polus, Sinan Rabeh, Mahmoud Rabith, Sarraj Razeek, Abdurrahman Mohamed Ringrow, Shae Riza, Hassan Robinson, Mark Rukaj, Orijol Rukaj, Sidita Sakr, Seif Saygili, Suleyman Scoble, James Seddon, Joshua Sekhon, Glory Seng, Pisey Singh Gill, Gurdeep Singh, Surinder Sj Moore Road Pty Ltd Soiklis, Kyriacos Spaseski, Chris Strinavic, Joesph James Taala, Joseph Teki, Shalako The Burnt Ones Pty Ltd Toi, Charles F Toma, Ramson Traficante, Robert Tree, Courtney Jane Trimble-Jeffery, Lochie Tzanakos, Peter Ututaonga, Zayah Verma, Manvinder Singh Villiers, Tim Walpole, Holly Walpole, Olivia Watt, Philip Leslie Woodman, Steven Daniel Yehia, Mohammed Yildiz, Eray Younan, Landy Zakariya, Evan
Ringwood robbery
■ Knox Crime Investigation Unit detectives charged two boys after a robbery in Ringwood
Police responded to reports a group of alleged offenders assaulted victims and stole a jumper in the food court of a shopping centre on the Maroondah Hwy about 4.30pm on Thursday (Nov. 13) It was reported one of the alleged offenders made claims of being in possession of a machete.
Fast responding officers quickly located and arrested two alleged offenders, a 13year-old boy and a 15-year-old boy, both from the Maroondah area.
The victims, two 14-year-old boys and a 13-year-old boy all from the Maroondah area, were not physically injured.
A third alleged offender, a 14-year-old boy also from the Maroondah area, was located and arrested by investigators inside the same shopping centre later in the evening.
A machete was not located.
All three alleged offenders were interviewed by detectives.
A 15-year-old boy and a 14-year-old boy were both charged with robbery and bailed to appear before a children’s court at a later date.
A 13-year-old boy was issued with a caution for handle proceeds of crime.
Allegedly stolen property was located, seized and returned to one of the victims.
Freeway fatality
■ Police attended at the scene fatal crash on the Eastern Freeway in Box Hill North Emergency services were called to reports of a car crashing into a stationary truck near roadworks on the Eastern Fwy, inbound between Middleborough and Tram Rds, about 1am Thursday (Nov. 13).
The driver and sole occupant of the car, died at the scene. A roadworker was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening inju
The area was cordoned off and a section of the Freeway was closed while police responded to the fatal crash.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash remains ongoing.
Guard assaulted
■ A man has been charged after a security guard was allegedly assaulted at a Wantirna South shopping centre precinct on Cup Day.
The 19-year-old was arrested after he was found asleep in a car which had allegedly been broken into at Ringwood.
Detectives from the Knox Crime Investigation Unit later charged the Thornbury man with 12 offences including intentionally causing injury, assault with weapon, commit indictable offence while on bail, possessing stolen goods and attempted burglary.
He was to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court where police will apply for remand.
The arrests follow an incident in a laneway next to the Burwood Hwy shopping centre about 12.45pm on Tuesday, November 4.
Police will allege the man assaulted a 47year-old security guard before taking off on foot through the shopping centre.
The victim was taken to hospital with serious facial injuries. He is now recovering at home.
Baysie shooting
■ Detectives from the Armed Crime Squad have charged a man following a non-fatal shooting in Bayswater earlier this month.
A 30-year-old Mooroolbark man was arrested.
He was interviewed by investigators and subsequently charged with intentionally cause serious injury, reckless conduct endangering life and prohibited person possess firearm.
The man was remanded overnight to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court With assistance from Maroondah Crime Investigation Unit and Divisional Response Unit, search warrants were executed at residential addresses in Mooroolbark and Croydon.
A cut up firearm was located at the Mooroolbark property. This follows an incident where emergency services were called to Station and High Sts just before 4pm on Saturday, November 1, after a man was located with a gunshot wound. It’s understood two men were seen arguing in a car park just prior to the incident.
By Rob Foenander
Whispering Hope
■ The annual Christmas party for the Whispering Hope charity group will be held at the Springvale RSL from 12.30 onwards on Sunday, November 30.
Christmas Carols, dancing to entertainer Rob Foenander, Santa Claus, prizes, music and a Eastern and Western Smorgasbord. All proceeds will go toward the purchase of a prosthesis leg for a Cancer Ward patient at the Badulla Hospital, Sri Lanka
■ Aussie music legend Jeff Duff will present his own special tribute to the late rock icon David Bowie 2026 marks the dates that changed music forever with Bowie’s birthday on January 8 and his passing on January 10.
It also commemorates the 10th Anniversary of the Bowie Unzipped show itself. Memo Music Hall: Sunday, january 11. Tickets at Trybooking.com
- Rob Foenander
Top Melburnian
■ Pioneering business leader and MECCA Brands founder and Co-CEO Jo Horgan has been named Melburnian of the Year at the Melbourne Awards.
Recognised for her exceptional leadership and contribution to the city, Horgan has grown MECCA f rom a single South Yarra store into a beauty empire with more than 110 stores across Australia and New Zealand. Young Melburnian of the Year is Dr Belle Lim
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
Bladderwrack reviewed by Peter Murphy
■ Innovation and risk-taking in the theatre are always welcome and Bladderwrack at Theatre Works had both in spades. Unfortunately, risk-taking is, well, risky and while the play certainly had several commendable features, the evening overall was one of disappointment.
The plot followed the travails of two ancient pirates who had lived in a sunken galleon for decades.
They were kept alive through the air provided by bladderwrack, a common type of seaweed that captures air in bladders for buoyancy.
Monsters and strange creatures of the deep keep the salty old sea dogs company as they ruminate on their situation.
Written by David Tredinnick and Adam Browne, the play was described as a science fiction pirate horror comedy with pantomime and opera thrown in for good measure.
While admirable in its ambition, these elements did not always sit well with each other; consequently, the story felt disjointed and piecemeal.
The world of the play was arcane and the language dense, full of metaphor and allegory. It was almost, at times, a literary work rather than theatrical; meant to be read rather than enacted.
In addition, attempts at humour often fell flat and there was little sense of drama or tension.
Despite this, the cast of fiveTredinnick and Browne joined by Samuel Thomas-Holland, Harriet Turner-Browne and Oscar Munro
Crossword Solution No 38
gave spirited performances, full of fire and ardour. They mastered the potentially tricky language of the script and shared a good onstage rapport.
As well as writing and performing Tredinnick and Browne were co-directors.
They, along with their creative team of puppet-makers, foley artists and fellow performers, constructed a fantastical underwater world which was a feast for the eyes and ears, a true wonderland.
Still, an outside objective eye would have helped highlight and address shortcomings of the overwrought script.
Unfortunately, unlike its namesake, this Bladderwracksuffered from a lack of buoyancy, notwithstanding the beautiful oceanic fairyland its creative team brought to life.
Venue: Explosives Factory, Rear Laneway 67 Inkerman St, St Kilda.
Review by Peter Murphy
Blanc de Blanc
■ Dwarfed by the office and retail towers of Lonsdale St, the Spiegel Haus Melbourne is a festive little nook — and the perfect setting for the riotous debauchery of Blanc de Blanc Encore.
Boasting a mix of international and home-grown talent, the show is an intoxicating blend of bawdy comedy, lip-sync, cabaret, burlesque, and a dash of circus — and it’s strictly adults only.
Conceived and directed by Scott Maidment, one half of the creative duo behind Strut and Fret (the team also responsible for The Garden of Unearthly Delights at Adelaide Fringe), Blanc de Blanc Encore bursts with energy, clowning, shock, and spectacle.
Emile Mathieu and Felix Pouliot — both Canadians and Cirque du Soleil alumni — emcee the proceedings with French accents, infectious enthusiasm, and unrestrained cheek. Their antics are undeniably fun, if occasionally a little overcooked.
While very much an ensemble piece, each of the seven performers shines in their moment under the spotlight.
Among the Australians, Clara Fable oozes sensuality with her tantalising and seductive vocals, while Melanie Hawkins and Flynn Miller impress as accomplished, artful dancers - Hawkins with a divine, sultry silhouette strip, and Miller with comic mastery.
A standout is the elegant Danielle Summers (UK) on aerial hoop, who later, somewhat less elegantly, dangles upside down pouring champagne into the lifted glasses of enthusiastic audience members. It’s a shame we didn’t see more of her impressive skill.
Mathieu also proves his talents extend beyond emceeing — his performance on his “organic” instrument leaves the audience roaring with laughter and disbelief.
Pouliot dazzles on the Chinese pole, taking planking to audacious new heights.
Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson
Contortionist Mykhailo Makarov (Ukraine) delivers some jaw-dropping, shoulder-socketdefying feats that delightfully disgust the crowd — not one for the squeamish.
The luxurious costumes (James Browne ), atmospheric lighting and set ( Philip Gladwell), and sultry choreography ( Kevin Maher) combine to create an aura of lushness, sensuality, and excess that simply drips with pleasure. BlancdeBlancEncoreis a dazzling and utterly entertaining cabaret experience.
Venue: Spiegel Haus Melbourne, 217 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne
Season: through to end of January 2026
Bookings: spiegelhausmelb.
com
Cost: $99 - $149
Review by Beth Klein
New album
■ A(Very)MusicalChristmasreturns this year with a new album capturing the magic of the 2025 production, filmed live on the set of MjTheMusical in Melbourne and hosted by Australian media icon Zan Rowe
Presented by Michael Cassel Group and the ABC, this festive celebration unites Australia’s brightest musical theatre stars to reimagine beloved carols and Christmas classics like never before. The new live recording will be released on December 5, allowing audiences to relive the joy all season long.
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
Observer Melbourne Lovatts Crossword No 38
AcrossAcrossDownDown
1. Supporting structure
6. Discreetly
11. Discontent
15. Enlisting (7,2)
20. Verve
21. Circle (planet)
22. Aria-nominated singer, ... Murray
23. Soiled
25. Reflector
26. Nastier
27. Of kidneys
29. Debar (4,3)
32. Close
34. Go berserk, run ...
36. Self-centredness
39. Acute remorse
41. Tree, copper ...
43. Merits
46. Fatigued
48. Blunder
49. Swerve
51. Stone god
52. Revenge
55. June 6, 1944 (1-3)
56. Louts
59. Confuse
61. Whisky & ...
62. Tennis ace, Steffi ...
63. Condition
64. Verb modifiers
67. Many-sided figure
68. Pacify
70. Earth's environment, Mother ...
71. Stern
72. Cricket side
73. Anxious (2,4)
74. Polite form of address
75. Italian rice dish
77. Lead-in
78. Radiate
79. Measly
82. German war vessels (1-5)
86. Madden
87. Russian leader
89. Alpine flower
92. Truck's unloaded weight
94. Country, Sri ...
96. Catch sight of
98. Negative votes
100. Cure (fish)
101. Feel the loss of
103. Old Testament son of Isaac
105. French cap
106. Murder (2,2)
108. In charge, at the ...
111. Domestic servant
112. Bread grillers
114. Light classical musical
116. Early guitar
119. Authentic
120. Hasten
121. Typist's ailment (1,1,1)
123. Arguable
124. Engrave
125. Wipe out
126. Revenge
127. Constantly busy (2,3,2)
130. City's chief mail centre (1,1,1)
131. Thin-petalled flowers
135. Tartan skirts
138. Leonardo da Vinci's ... Lisa
139. Genuine thing, the ... McCoy
141. Barbie toys
144. Chew like rat
146. Sergeant or corporal (1,1,1)
147. At that time
148. Hawaiian garland
149. Female horse
150. Nautical yes
151. Cut (timber)
152. Amounted to (4,2)
153. Wine, ... spumante
155. Happily ... after
157. Garden tool
158. Volleyball court dividers
160. Requirements
161. Elevate
162. Progress chart
163. Mirth
165. Light purple
166. Uncle Sam (1,1,1)
167. Anger
168. Official decree
169. Europe/US defence pact
171. Pale beer
172. Board
175. Jottings
176. Per, for ...
179. Swelled
180. Lessen
182. Tennis great, Arthur ...
184. Prompting (actor)
185. Uprising
186. Achieve
188. Drag with effort
189. Drilling platform
190. Soviet Union (1,1,1,1)
191. Utilise
193. Perfumed powder
194. Community spirit
196. Father
197. Covers
198. Overfills
200. Furtiveness
205. Definite article
207. Climbs
210. Intoxicate
211. Chatty
212. Suffer pain
213. Saint's ring
214. Mayday signal (1,1,1)
216. Zodiac crustacean
218. Wickedness
219. Eastern European
220. Dining table protector (5,3)
224. Dreamer
227. Pint-size
229. Jeans maker, ... Strauss
230. Black soft drink
231. Bounders
232. Front of leg
233. Concept
235. Durable fabric
237. Performs
239. Hitler's ... Kampf
241. The Devil
244. Dancer, ... Pavlova
246. Coiffure
249. Eye lustfully
252. Gives birth to pups
254. Make untidy (4,2)
256. Charmingly unusual
258. Pill
259. Hostile frown
260. Primped
263. Cowardly informer
264. Minor details
265. Interfere
267. Sand granules
270. Threat
271. Imperial ruler
272. Marine mollusc
273. Ancient Arabic tribesman
274. Partners
277. Yuletide
279. Sudden invasion
281. Fires (from job)
284. Famed lioness
286. High temperature
288. Died before
292. Additional
294. Encounter
295. Half-diameters
298. Cook in oven
300. Come up
301. Screened (film) again
303. Marten fur
306. Racing car's protective frame
308. Single thing
309. Embraces
311. Paltry sum of money
314. Internet message
315. Cease operating (3,3)
316. Gradually implant (ideas)
317. Dinners or lunches
318. Meadows (poetic)
319. Supplementary
320. Fiddling emperor
321. Tough circumstances
322. Nipped with beak
323. Sat lazily
324. Freedom fighter
1. Load completely
2. Actor, ... Baldwin
3. Encourage (3,2)
4. Skips
5. Lock openers
6. Movie star, ... L Jackson
7. Join
8. Set fire to
9. Big Apple resident, New ...
10. Engross
11. Maximum
12. Estate agent
13. Lance
14. Expressed as 15. Yank
16. Personal
17. Eskimo shelter
18. Mongolian desert
19. Rhyme
24. Picnic blankets
28. Taj Mahal city
30. Had to repay
31. Philosopher, ... Marx
33. Atomic devices (1-5)
35. Most likely to win (4-2)
37. Brisk pace
38. Filter
40. Natives of Lhasa
42. Hag
44. Church corridors
45. Gold ore lump
47. Foolish
48. Cosmetic pencil
49. Most conceited
50. Opinion column
53. Narrowed
54. Volcanic (rock)
57. African anteaters
58. Dissolved (ties)
60. Tag for future use
63. Similar-meaning word
65. ... Sea Scrolls
66. Golfer, ... Ballesteros
68. Edible flesh
69. Front
76. Forth
79. Woman's title
80. Yawning gulf
81. Satirical play
83. Pop song's flip (1-4)
84. Sharpshooter, ... Oakley
85. Pig's home
88. Of beauty
90. Wanes
91. Interested in 93. Sheepishly
95. Amongst
97. Medieval farm labourer
99. Actor, ... Banderas
100. Indecent material
102. US Rockies state
104. Loft
107. Request from menu
109. Composer, Andrew ... Webber
110. Broad smile
111. Engage (with)
113. Thinks logically
115. Author's alias (3,4)
117. Snake-like fish
118. Point of perfection
121. Splendid clothes
122. Play piano, tinkle the ...
127. Liver or spleen
128. Stretch (of land)
129. Family-tree specialist
132. Varieties
133. Altogether (2,3)
134. Burn (hair)
135. Enlightenment
136. Gandhi's garment
137. ... & weaknesses
138. Fulfil expectations (7,2)
140. Bulkiness
141. Crystal brandy bottles
142. Verbally attacks (6,3)
143. Items of stage scenery (3,6)
145. Rinse (4,3)
151. Section
154. Snares
156. Yashmaks
159. Historical period
164. And so on
169. Standards
170. Steak cut (1-4)
173. Makes fizzy
174. Young eagles
177. Anew
178. Pawns
181. US cotton state
183. Crowded together
187. From Addis Ababa
192. Picking
195. Be melodramatic
199. Idiotic
201. Mite
202. Primates
203. Pull strenuously
204. Brutal
206. Prince Andrew's ex
207. Diminish
208. Covet
209. Quacking bird
213. ... & hearty
215. Supervise
217. Bigotry
221. Fees
222. Ruined Inca city, ... Picchu
223. Siamese
224. Child's guessing game (1,3)
225. East England county
226. Restrict
228. Vagrants
234. Frivolous time-wasting
236. Caravan nomads
238. Wheel-shaft projection
240. Olympic Games body (1,1,1)
242. Rouses
243. Be unfaithful to (3-4)
245. India's capital (3,5)
247. Satisfy
248. Accounts books
250. Connections
251. Non-believer
253. Swindle
255. Jug
257. Charged atoms
258. Docile
261. Rubber
262. Gallows loops
265. Composer, Wolfgang Amadeus ...
266. Gets rid of
268. Stage whisper
269. Malay garment
275. Singing pitch
276. Tea, ... Grey
278. Paintings & drawings
280. Spray can
282. Prayer ending
283. Conserved
285. Cricketer, ... Gilchrist
287. Shoe reinforcement
289. Moved swiftly
290. Musky cats
291. TV reception pole
292. Manhandled
293. Explorer, ... Tasman
296. Aids in crime
297. Baghdad native
299. Tickle
302. White wine, ... Riesling
304. Quickly
305. High-quality printer type
306. Hurry
307. Suggestive look
308. Troubles
310. Urban haze
312. Russia's ... Mountains
313. Two-seater lounge
WEEKEND’S LOCAL CRICKET FINAL SCORES
■ Men’s Premier Firsts. One Day. Sat., Nov. 15. Richmond 1st XI 9/198 v Carlton 1st XI 6/254. St Kilda 1st XI 5/207 v Casey South Melbourne 1st XI 10/203. Footscray 1st XI 10/ 158 v Northcote 1st XI 9/207. Kingston Hawthorn 1st XI 9/242 v Camberwell Magpies 1st XI 9/279. Prahran 1st XI 4/210 v Essendon 1st XI 8/209. Geelong 1st XI 10/138 v Melbourne 1st XI 9/279. Melbourne University 1st XI 4/ 260 v Dandenong 1st XI 7/259. Ringwood 1st XI 2/166 v Fitzroy Doncaster 1st XI 10/162. Greenvale Kangaroos 1st XI 9/270 v Frankston Peninsula 1st XI 4/271. Seconds. Carlton 2nd XI 8/144 v Richmond 2nd XI 10/139. Casey South Melbourne 2nd XI 8/240 v St Kilda 2nd XI 9/218. Northcote 2nd XI 2/301 v Footscray 2nd XI 10/ 275. Camberwell Magpies 2nd XI 9/207 v Kingston Hawthorn 2nd XI 10/168. Essendon 2nd XI 7/289 v Prahran 2nd XI 10/270. Melbourne 2nd XI 10/185 v Geelong 2nd XI 4/ 189. Dandenong 2nd XI 10/198 v Melbourne University 2nd XI 3/224. Fitzroy Doncaster 2nd XI 9/200 v Ringwood 2nd XI 10/67. Frankston Peninsula 2nd XI 6/203 v Greenvale Kangaroos 2nd XI 10/201.
Thirds. Richmond 3rd XI 10/217 v Carlton 3rd XI 10/186. St Kilda 3rd XI 5/207 v Casey South Melbourne 3rd XI 7/205. Footscray 3rd XI 6/245 v Northcote 3rd XI 2/249. Kingston Hawthorn 3rd XI 9/185 v Camberwell Magpies 3rd XI 5/192. Prahran 3rd XI 5/242 v Essendon 3rd XI 6/244. Geelong 3rd XI 6/214 v Melbourne 3rd XI 10/149. Melbourne University 3rd XI 10/191 v Dandenong 3rd XI 3/274. Ringwood 3rd XI 10/217 v Fitzroy Doncaster 3rd XI 7/ 286. Greenvale Kangaroos 3rd XI 10/136 v Frankston Peninsula 3rd XI 5/140.
Fourths. Carlton 4th XI v Richmond 4th XI, abandoned. Casey South Melbourne 4th XI 9/163 v St Kilda 4th XI 7/220. Northcote 4th XI 9/217 v Footscray 4th XI 5/282. Camberwell Magpies 4th XI 7/213 v Kingston Hawthorn 4th XI 2/214. Melbourne 4th XI 9/189 v Geelong 4th XI 4/193. Dandenong 4th XI v Melbourne University 4th XI, abandoned. Fitzroy Doncaster 4th XI 10/245 v Ringwood 4th XI 10/202. Frankston Peninsula 4th XI 3/158 v Greenvale Kangaroos 4th XI 9/156. Essendon 4th XI 10/ 146 v Prahran 4th XI 7/191.
Sub-District
■ East-West 1st XI. One Day. Bayswater 1st XI 10/174 v Noble Park 1st XI 5/273. Box Hill 1st XI 3/220 v Donvale 1st XI 6/216. Croydon 1st XI 9/160 v Endeavour Hills 1st XI 6/162. Mt Waverley 1st XI 9/180 v Balwyn 1st XI 5/334. Altona 1st XI 7/171 v Yarraville 1st XI 10/110. Melton 1st XI 7/164 v Spotswood 1st XI 3/167. Taylors Lakes 1st XI 7/198 v Hoppers Crossing 1st XI 7/202. Werribee 1st XI 5/239 v Williamstown 1st XI 8/136. East-West 2nd XI. Noble Park 2nd XI 4/ 177 v Bayswater 2nd XI 9/173. Donvale 2nd XI 2/135 v Box Hill 2nd XI 7/134. Endeavour Hills 2nd XI 5/193 v Croydon 2nd XI 7/196. Balwyn 2nd XI 9/204 v Mt Waverley 2nd XI 6/ 209. Yarraville 2nd XI 8/187 v Altona 2nd XI 7/ 185. Spotswood 2nd XI 6/232 v Melton 2nd XI 6/233. Hoppers Crossing 2nd XI 10/180 v Taylors Lakes 2nd XI 5/205. Williamstown 2nd XI 7/133 v Werribee 2nd XI 5/185.
North-South 1st XI. Brunswick 1st XI 2/ 162 v Plenty Valley 1st XI 10/159. Preston 1st XI 2/176 v Kew 1st XI 5/175. St Bernard's OC 1st XI 3/218 v Coburg 1st XI 8/215. Strathmore 1st XI 7/205 v Ivanhoe 1st XI 9/ 202. Caulfield 1st XI 9/185 v Elsternwick 1st XI 7/189. Moorabbin 1st XI 10/140 v Brighton 1st XI 10/225. Oakleigh 1st XI 9/197 v Malvern 1st XI 4/198. Port Melbourne 1st XI 7/212 v Ormond 1st XI 5/213. North-South 2nd XI. Plenty Valley 2nd XI 10/143 v Brunswick 2nd XI 9/224. Kew 2nd XI 10/154 v Preston 2nd XI 9/157. Ivanhoe 2nd XI 10/137 v Strathmore 2nd XI 6/173. Elsternwick 2nd XI 3/193 v Caulfield 2nd XI 6/ 191. Brighton 2nd XI 4/249 v Moorabbin 2nd XI 10/203. Ormond 2nd XI 10/114 v Port Melbourne 2nd XI 5/115. Coburg 2nd XI 6/188 v St Bernard's OC 2nd XI 4/190. Malvern 2nd
XI v Oakleigh 2nd XI.
North-West 3rd XI. Division 1. Brunswick 3rd XI 3/154 v Plenty Valley 3rd XI 10/ 152. Melton 3rd XI 5/63 v Hoppers Crossing 3rd XI 10/60. Taylors Lakes 3rd XI 9/133 v Werribee 3rd XI 9/130. St Bernard's OC 3rd XI 10/149 v Preston 3rd XI 3/150. North-West 3rd XI. Division 2. Coburg 3rd XI 5/195 v Spotswood 3rd XI 10/161. Strathmore 3rd XI 8/254 v Kew 3rd XI 9/235. Williamstown 3rd XI 8/153 v Ivanhoe 3rd XI 6/ 234. Yarraville 3rd XI 7/165 v Altona 3rd XI 7/ 162.
North-West 4th XI. Division 1. Plenty Valley 4th XI 8/188 v Brunswick 4th XI 10/ 179. Hoppers Crossing 4th XI 9/199 v Melton 4th XI 5/217. Preston 4th XI 2/135 v St Bernard's OC 4th XI 9/134. Werribee 4th XI 10/53 v Taylors Lakes 4th XI 0/54.
North-West 4th XI. Division 2. Plenty Valley 4th XI 8/188 v Brunswick 4th XI 10/ 179. Hoppers Crossing 4th XI 9/199 v Melton 4th XI 5/217. Preston 4th XI 2/135 v St Bernard's OC 4th XI 9/134. Werribee 4th XI 10/53 v Taylors Lakes 4th XI 0/54.
South-East 3rd XI. Division 1. Caulfield 4th XI 10/60 v Elsternwick 4th XI 9/147. Croydon 4th XI 10/91 v Malvern 4th XI 10/ 163. Balwyn 4th XI 9/142 v Mt Waverley 4th XI 7/155. Oakleigh 4th XI 5/255 v Bayswater 4th XI 10/85.
South-East 3rd XI. Division 2. Box Hill 3rd XI 10/138 v Noble Park 3rd XI 8/192. Brighton 3rd XI 4/174 v Port Melbourne 3rd XI 10/173. Moorabbin 3rd XI 5/283 v Donvale 3rd XI 10/113. Ormond 3rd XI 10/201 v Endeavour Hills 3rd XI 8/202.
South-East 4th XI. Division 1. Caulfield 4th XI 10/60 v Elsternwick 4th XI 9/147.
Croydon 4th XI 10/91 v Malvern 4th XI 10/ 163. Balwyn 4th XI 9/142 v Mt Waverley 4th XI 7/155. Oakleigh 4th XI 5/255 v Bayswater 4th XI 10/85 v Elsternwick 4th XI 9/147. Croydon 4th XI 10/91 v Malvern 4th XI 10/ 163. Balwyn 4th XI 9/142 v Mt Waverley 4th XI 7/155. Oakleigh 4th XI 5/255 v Bayswater 4th XI 10/85
South-East 4th XI. Division 2. Noble Park 4th XI 7/131 v Box Hill 4th XI 10/130. Port Melbourne 4th XI 10/142 v Brighton 4th XI 10/89. Donvale 4th XI 0/155 v Moorabbin 4th XI 8/154. Endeavour Hills 4th XI 2/129 v Ormond 4th XI 7/128.
Diamond Valley
■ Barclay Shield. One Day. Bundoora 1st XI 5/188 v Heidelberg 1st XI 10/137. Diamond Creek 1st XI 4/187 v Macleod 1st XI 10/84. Epping 1st XI 5/87 v Riverside 1st XI 10/83. North Eltham Wanderers 1st XI 10/165 v Rosanna 1st XI 10/190. Rosebank 1st XI 7/ 146 v Bundoora United 1st XI 4/147. Money Shield. Eltham 1st XI 9/185 v Mernda 1st XI 6/219. Research Eltham Collegians 1st XI 6/210 v Bundoora Park 1st XI 7/ 202. Lower Plenty 1st XI 5/229 v Lalor Stars 1st XI 8/226. Montmorency 1st XI 4/181 v Plenty 1st XI 5/184. Banyule 1st XI 2/127 v Greensborough 1st XI 10/126. Mash Shield. Dennis 1st XI 10/119 v Hurstbridge 1st XI 5/120. Laurimar 1st XI 4/ 137 v Mill Park 1st XI 8/136. South Morang 1st XI 9/109 v Lower Eltham 1st XI 10/106. Panton Hill 1st XI 8/200 v Thomastown 1st XI 9/166. Rivergum 1st XI 5/219 v Thomastown United 1st XI 10/105. Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 1st XI 10/146 v Keon Park CC 1st XI 5/199
B-Grade. Plenty 2nd XI v Diamond Creek 2nd XI. Heidelberg 2nd XI v Research Eltham Collegians 2nd XI. Mernda 2nd XI v North Eltham Wanderers 2nd XI. Riverside 2nd XI v Montmorency 2nd XI. Rosanna 2nd XI v Banyule 2nd XI
C-Grade. Bundoora United 2nd XI 7/190 v Eltham 2nd XI 8/150. Greensborough 2nd XI 5/210 v South Morang 2nd XI 10/154. Macleod 2nd XI 10/123 v Lower Plenty 2nd XI 3/127. Riverside 3rd XI 6/174 v Rivergum 2nd XI 6/ 175. Lalor Stars 2nd XI 10/131 v Bundoora 2nd XI 3/132. D-Grade. Hurstbridge 2nd XI 9/185 v North Eltham Wanderers 3rd XI 6/187. Mill Park 2nd
XI 10/95 v Laurimar 2nd XI 2/97. Lower Plenty 3rd XI 6/191 v Montmorency 3rd XI 10/61. Bundoora Park 2nd XI 9/121 v Panton Hill 2nd XI 10/139. Diamond Creek 3rd XI 8/150 v Rosebank 2nd XI 6/151. Keon Park CC 2nd XI 8/99 v Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 2nd XI 2/ 100
Eastern
■ Dunstan Shield. One Day. Mont Albert 1st XI 5/141 v North Balwyn 1st XI 6/137. Glen Iris 1st XI 4/136 v Bulleen 1st XI 10/135. Edinburgh 1st XI 10/136 v East Doncaster 1st XI 6/174. East Malvern Tooronga 1st XI 5/185 v Old Carey 1st XI 2/188. Wright Shield. Marcellin OC 1st XI 10/ 107 v Ashburton Willows 1st XI 5/109. Heathmont 1st XI 8/209 v Mulgrave 1st XI 7/ 228. Canterbury 1st XI 10/164 v Richmond City 1st XI 10/164. Deepdene Bears 1st XI 10/ 85 v Surrey Hills 1st XI 10/69.
A Turf. Mazenod OC 1st XI 8/172 v Boronia 1st XI 8/172. Balwyn Saints 1st XI 9/168 v Hawthorn Boroondara 1st XI 7/170. Ashwood 1st XI 9/188 v Burwood 1st XI 10/112. Old Carey 2nd XI 5/146 v Mont Albert 2nd XI 10/ 145.
B Turf. East Doncaster 2nd XI 9/196 v Deepdene Bears 2nd XI 5/203. Bulleen 2nd XI 5/114 v Richmond Union 1st XI 10/113. St. Kevins Old Boys 1st XI 9/154 v Canterbury 2nd XI 8/140. North Balwyn 2nd XI 7/206 v Heathmont 2nd XI 8/204.
C Turf. Hawthorn Boroondara 2nd XI 8/187 v Glen Iris 2nd XI 10/150. Mulgrave 2nd XI 8/ 159 v East Malvern Tooronga 2nd XI 9/149. Burwood 2nd XI 2/90 v La Trobe University 1st XI 10/88. Boronia 2nd XI 9/113 v Edinburgh 2nd XI 9/141.
D Turf. Ashburton Willows 2nd XI v 5/123 v Marcellin OC 2nd XI 10/118. Surrey Hills 2nd XI 7/163 v Mazenod OC 2nd XI 5/160. Richmond City 2nd XI 3/134 v Old Carey 3rd XI 9/132. Mont Albert 3rd XI 7/126 v Ashwood 2nd XI 4/127.
E Turf. Heathmont 3rd XI 2/100 v East Malvern Tooronga 3rd XI 10/99. Hawthorn Boroondara 3rd XI 9/173 v Balwyn Saints 2nd XI 5/175. Deepdene Bears 3rd XI 7/178 v Surrey Hills 3rd XI 10/106. Richmond Union 2nd XI 10/145 v Edinburgh 3rd XI 10/156. La Trobe University 2nd XI v Marcellin OC 3rd XI, abandoned.
F Turf. East Malvern Tooronga 4th XI 8/182 v Hawthorn Boroondara 4th XI 3/183. St. Kevins Old Boys 2nd XI 10/97 v Mont Albert 4th XI 10/138. Richmond City 3rd XI 1/85 v Surrey Hills 4th XI 10/82. East Doncaster 3rd XI 6/ 156 v Heathmont 4th XI 8/153. Bye: Bulleen 3rd XI
MacGibbon Shield. Deepdene Uniting 1st XI 7/177 v STC South Camberwell 1st XI 9/ 176. Holy Trinity 1st XI 10/209 v Burwood Unt. Canterbury 1st XI 10/198. Clifton Hill 1st XI 3/ 147 v West Ivanhoe United 1st XI 10/145. Trinity Willison 1st XI 3/117 v Glen Waverley 1st XI 10/113.
Burt Shield. Toorak Prahran 1st XI 2/87 v Holy Trinity 2nd XI 10/86. Burwood Unt. Canterbury 2nd XI 7/169 v Clifton Hill 2nd XI 4/ 174. North Alphington 1st XI 10/104 v St. Paul's Oakleigh District 1st XI 7/182. Glen Waverley 2nd XI 10/104 v Trinity Willison 2nd XI 2/105.
Morn. Peninsula
■ Provincial Firsts. Two Days. Sats., Nov. 8 and 15. Mornington 1sts 8/195 v Dromana 1sts 10/138. Langwarrin 1sts 6/132 v Red Hill 1sts 4/133. Baden Powell 1sts 5/259 v Sorrento 1sts 9/208. Pines 1sts 7/147 v Heatherhill 1sts 10/136 Peninsula Firsts. Balnarring 1sts 3/165 v Somerville 1sts 8/163. Long Island 1sts 6/ 164 v Seaford CC 1sts 10/122. Mt Eliza 1sts 1/120 v Moorooduc 1sts 8/119. Old Peninsula 1sts 10/127 v Rosebud 1sts 5/131. District Firsts. Rye 1sts 9/158 v Crib Point 1sts 7/192. Carrum Downs 1sts 4/89 v Flinders 1sts 10/88. Main Ridge 1sts 9/170 v Boneo 1sts 10/193. Seaford Tigers 1sts 8/114 v Carrum CC 1sts 8/116.
Sub-District Firsts. Tyabb 1sts 10/137 v Mt Martha 1sts 8/202. Tootgarook 1sts 10/90 v Frankston YCW 1st 4/91. Ballam Park 1sts 10/108 v Pearcedale 1sts 9/113. Skye 1sts 6/ 121 v Baxter 1sts 6/105, abandoned. Bye: Delacombe Park 1sts.
North Metro
■ Jika Shield. Two Days. Sats., Nov. 15 and 22. Preston Baseballers CC 1st XI v Olympic Colts CC 1st XI 7/306. Camrea Stingrays CC 1st XI 10/64 v Northern Socials CC 1st XI 10/ 157. Donath CC 1st XI 0/0 v Fiji Victorian CC 1st XI 10/170.
Jack Quick Shield. Fiji Victorian CC 2nd XI v Strathewen Cougars CC 1stXI. Bellfield Bulls CC 1st XI 10/218 v Reservoir Cobras CC 1st XI 0/11. West Preston CC 1st XI v Cameron CC 1st XI 7/282.
Jack Kelly Shield. Royal Park Reds 3rd XI v Preston YCW District 1st XI. Ivanhoe Mavericks CC 1st XI 1/23 v West Preston CC 2nd XI 10/115. Fairfield CC 1st XI v Preston Baseballers CC 2nd XI 4/167.
B-Grade. Wollert Rhinos CC 1st XI 7-d/282 v Bellfield Bulls CC 2nd XI. West Preston CC 3rd XI v Fairfield CC 2nd XI 10/95. Northern Socials CC 2s XI 10/90 v Fiji Victorian CC 3rd XI 4/98.
C-Grade. Fiji Victorian CC 4th XI 10/170 v Bellfield Bulls CC 3rd XI 0/10. Olympic Colts CC 2nd XI Forfeit v Preston Baseballers CC 3rd XI. Reservoir Cobras CC 2nd XI v Camrea Stingrays CC 2nd XI 9/211. Bellfield Bulls CC 4th XI v Royal Park Reds 4th XI 9/220. Robert Young DODC. Cameron CC OD 10/100 v Kinglake CC OD 7/101. Preston YCW District OD v Donath CC OD Forfeit. Bye: Camrea Stingrays CC OD.
Ringwood District
■ Lindsay Trollope Shield. Two Days. Sats., Nov. 15 and 22. St Andrews 1XI v Ainslie Park 1XI 10/239. Croydon Ranges 1XI v Norwood 1XI 5/270. North Ringwood 1XI 10/258 v Lilydale 1XI. Montrose 1XI 7/252 v South Croydon 1XI.
Bill Wilkins Cup. Kilsyth 1XI 5/76 v Warranwood 1XI 10/193. Vermont 1XI v Wonga Park 1XI 8/316. Mt Evelyn 1XI 2/33 v East Ringwood 1XI 6-d/367. Bayswater Park 1XI 0/ 21 v Heatherdale 1XI 10/126. Mooroolbark 1XI 6-d/169 v Wantirna South 1XI 10/57 & 0/ 14
Stuart Newey Plate. Healesville 1XI 9/ 241 v South Warrandyte 1XI. Warrandyte 1XI 10/250 v Templeton 1XI. Heathwood 1XI v Seville Burras 1XI 7/290. Yarra Junction 1XI v Chirnside Park 1XI 10/241.
Steve Pascoe Shield. Norwood 2XI 10/ 120 v Warrandyte 2XI 3/34. Ainslie Park 2XI 5/296 v Croydon North 1XI. South Croydon 2XI 10/154 v Montrose 2XI 3/87. East Ringwood 2XI v North Ringwood 2XI 10/180.
South-East
■ Longmuir Shield. One Day. East Sandringham 1 6/275 v Kingston Heath 1 9/ 192. Washington Park 1 7/129 v Brighton Union 1 9/125. West Bentleigh 1 6/223 v Bentleigh ANA 1 7/217. Le Page Park 1 5/171 v Bentleigh Uniting 1 9/170. ■ Woolnough Shield. Mackie 1 4/173 v Carnegie South 1 10/170. Hampton Central 1 10/114 v CHAG 1 8/165. Elwood 1 9/190 v Omega 1 8/188. Cluden 1 6/254 v Cheltenham Park 1 10/157.
Western
■ A-Grade. Tarneit Central 4th XI 7/209 v Altona Sports 1st XI 10/204. Truganina Strikers CC Yellow 1st XI 9/138 v Manor Lakes 2nd XI 10/131. West Point Titans 2nd XI 10/118 v Williams Landing SC 1st XI 5/121. ■ B-Grade. Point Cook Centrals 3rd XI 2/ 117 v Glen Orden Thunder 6th XI 10/113. Vic Bangladeshi SC 2nd XI 10/112 v Western Lions Gryphons 1st XI 9/114. Wyndham Vale 3rd XI 10/186 v Point Cook 5th XI 5/165. Altona Sports 2nd XI v AA Tarneit 1st XI 10/69.
Your Stars
with Kerry Kulkens
Presented by Sarah Kulkens, Australia’s
Trusted Psychic Family
ARIES (March 21 - April 20)
Lucky Colour: Cream
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 5, 3, 2, 1
Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 26, 36, 35, 8
Travel may be necessary to improve your financial situation. Your love life is the focus right now, with the welfare of loved ones weighing heavily on your mind.
TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)
Lucky Colour: White
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 2, 5
Lotto Numbers: 1, 15, 25, 23, 36, 7
Maintain a cool head when managing finances, even if tempted to spend on seemingly valuable items. Relying on others may lead to disappointment—trust in your abilities to get the job done.
GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)
Lucky Colour: Peach
Lucky Day: Monday
Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 2, 5
Lotto Numbers: 2, 3, 12, 26, 35, 40
Putting in extra effort to keep someone happy will prove worthwhile. Avoid getting involved in workplace disputes and let others take their own course.
CANCER (June 22 - July 22)
Lucky Colour: Violet
Lucky Day: Wednesday
Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 6, 5
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 26, 35, 5, 4
This is an accident-prone period, so stay alert. Opportunities and unexpected good luck may come from unusual sources, so keep an open mind.
LEO (July 23 - August 22)
Lucky Colour: Blue
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 1, 2, 5, 2
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 23, 36, 32, 20
Happiness and a delightful surprise in your love life are predicted. Be cautious with money—avoid overspending or making financial decisions based on unrealistic expectations.
VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)
Lucky Colour: Black
Lucky Day: Wednesday
Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 2, 5
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 26, 35, 40, 45
Avoid being overly critical at work, as it could result in losing essential support. However, happy moments are likely in your relationships.
LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)
Lucky Colour: Cream
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 2, 5
Lotto Numbers: 1, 15, 45, 20, 32, 22
Misunderstandings may lead to revenue loss, so ensure clarity in communication. This isn’t the best time to extend invitations to stay at your place.
SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)
Lucky Colour: Yellow
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 2, 1
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 25, 8, 6, 11
News from afar might inspire your next holiday destination. A streak of luck could help plans materialise sooner than anticipated—include your partner in the decision-making process.
SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)
Lucky Colour: Pink
Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 2, 1
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 25, 6, 30, 11
Keep communication lines open to avoid confusion. Reuniting with old friends will bring laughter and a welcome break from routine.
CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)
Lucky Colour: Silver
Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 5, 9
Lotto Numbers: 8, 12, 5, 44, 40, 33
Avoid arguments, as they’re easy to start but hard to resolve. Prepare excuses for potentially unwelcome invitations. Luck is associated with the colour red.
AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)
Lucky Colour: Green
Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 4, 5, 2, 6
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 26, 34, 40
Surrounding yourself with people will enrich this period, and your leadership will guide others. Your experience will prove invaluable during this time.
PISCES (February 20 - March 20)
Lucky Colour: Silver
Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 2, 5
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 26, 30, 33
Uncertainty may arise, but someone in a position to help will provide guidance. Past good deeds will bring benefits, and you may reconnect with people from your past.
Fuming at Council
Sir,
Residents across the City of Whittlesea are fuming as heavy-handed council officers clamp down on everyday people - not for endangering anyone, but for daring to park a caravan a few inches too far forward in their own driveway.
In one shocking instance, families in built-up estates have been slugged with fines simply because their caravans could not fit entirely behind the front façade of their homes.
The irony? These are the same councils claiming to champion affordable living, sustainability, and “community resilience”.
Locals say there have been no safety concerns, no complaints, and no harm done — yet compliance officers have been dispatched as if chasing hardened criminals.
Whittlesea residents, already living shoulder-toshoulder in dense estates where the housing crisis has squeezed space to breaking point, now face further pressure for simply trying to store their recreational vehicles.
Meanwhile, some have looked to neighbouring Nillumbik for a fairer approach — only to find their caravans ordered off private land there as well.
Those who tried to do the right thing, finding alternative storage on rural properties, are now being told even that is a “breach”.
The result? A community in uproar and a growing sense that councils have lost sight of their most basic purpose — to help the people they serve.
Instead of supporting residents to find sensible, lowimpact solutions, both councils have turned a blind eye to the real issues — housing affordability, land shortages, and community wellbeing — and chosen the easy route of enforcement over empathy.
If councils want to rebuild public trust, they need to start by using common sense.
Australians have always valued fairness, mateship, and problem-solving — not bureaucracy for bureaucracy’s sake.
When a few inches of caravan overhang can spark official action, it’s clear something has gone seriously wrong.
Ross Lee, Doreen
Mean spirited
Sir,
The Albanese Government’s mean-spirited plan to overhaul the honours and awards appeal system is a betrayal of our veterans and their families.
The Labor Party’s legislation takes away long-standing rights to appeal Defence decisions and would impose a 20year time limit on applications for review.
In practice, that means Australian Defence Force personnel, veterans and their families would be silenced, with no avenue to challenge Defence decisions on medal entitlements or recognition of service.
Letters must be short and may be edited. All letters to be considered for publication must have a name, street address and phone number so their authenticity can be checked. An email address is not sufficient.
in recognising our nation’s heroes.
The Tribunal’s independence has allowed cases like Ordinary Seaman Teddy Sheean VC and Private Richard Norden VC to finally receive the recognition they deserved.
Under Labor’s changes, these heroes would never have been recognised for their bravery because their actions occurred more than 20 years ago.
Even worse, the Department of Defence admitted during Senate hearings that it failed to consult either the Tribunal or the ex-service community before drafting the Bill.
Veterans across the country have lined up to condemn the legislation.
The RSL of New South Wales called it “disgraceful” and warned that it would harm the physical and mental wellbeing of veterans and their families.
The Tribunal itself has said the Bill would remove existing rights and work to the “very significant disadvantage” of those who have served.
Darren Chester Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
Disaster season
Sir,
The Salvation Army Emergency Services are encouraging Australians to be alert and prepare for the upcoming summer season, as the risk of natural disasters increases heading into the warmer months.
The Bureau of Meteorology has released the outlook for this year’s High Risk Weather Season (October to April), showing increased risk of bushfire in parts of Western Australia, South Australia and Victoria, increased risk of extreme heat in far northern Australia and increased risk of flooding across eastern Australia.
Severe weather events can happen at any time during the year, but the highest likelihood of extreme disasters like flooding, tropical cyclones, heatwaves and bushfires to occur is between October and April.
The Salvos have seen this impact first hand, as we have supported individuals, families and communities for the last 130 years who have been impacted by natural disasters.
This is why we are encouraging Aussies to get themselves and their homes ready.
We don’t want people to be alarmed, but to be prepared for the potential risks that this season can bring.
There are really practical ways you can prepare; make an emergency ‘go bag’ with key personal documents, ensure you have a few days supplies like food, water and even cash on hand, in case a disaster affects access to key services, and much more.”
The SAES teams have a long and credible history supporting Aussies during national disasters, both with meals and practical support when disasters strike as well as long-term emotional and financial support as communities recover and rebuild.
This has included supporting people during Cyclone Tracy over 50 years ago, and more recently the 2019 Black Summer bushfires, the 2022 Queensland and New South Wales floods, and countless others.
In the past three years alone, SAES teams have distributed over 380,000 meals and refreshments and supported over 75,000 people, all of which wouldn’t have been possible without the 68,000 volunteer hours completed by over 10,000 volunteers.
‘I have prayed for so long’
■ "I have prayed so long, so hard. Somehow I feel this could be the answer to my prayers”.
These wistful, courageously, hopeful words were spoken yesterday by frail, but strong-hearted Mrs. Lily Hickman, a patient at Fairfield Hospital
She is one of the two women in the hospital's T.B. section who offered to become human guinea, pigs to test Professor Sydney Rubbo's new anti tuberculosis drug, verazide.
4 lose cars
■ Four bewildered motorists had their newly bought Holdens confiscated by motor squad detectives yesterday.
Police said the motorists were the innocent dupes of a highly organised car-stealing racket.
Detectives claim that the four late-model Holden Specials were stolen over the last six months, re-registered by the thief at the Motor Registration Branch, then sold to a legitimate used car dealer.
The dealer resold them, unaware that they were "hot."
The police seizures climaxed round - the clock investigations by Sen.-det. C. Beatty and five other detectives as signed to smash the racket.
Detectives allege that the cars were stolen from the City, South Melbourne, and from Bendigo race track, between May this year and last Wednesday.
They claim that the thief altered the engine numbers, removed the number plates and calmly reregistered the cars as exN.S.W. vehicles.
9754 4587
WWW.KERRYKULKENS.COM.AU
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The Bill is an attack on the independence of the Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal, a body that was established to stand apart from Defence and ensure fairness
This is not a minor administrative reform; it’s a fundamental weakening of transparency and oversight by a Labor Party which hates being held to account.
The Coalition is working with the crossbench in the Senate to defeat the Bill, but we need your help.
If you live in a Labor Party electorate, write to your Member of Parliament and tell them to oppose this plan which puts a time limit on ‘We
Small, practical steps in preparation can make a huge difference for you and your family if a disaster strikes; it means you are ready to spring into action if needed, and you will have peace of mind knowing you have done all you can.
The Salvos also want to encourage people to reach out to those around you, particularly your elderly or vulnerable neighbours, or those who live alone, ahead of this disaster season. We can get through anything if we do it together.
Daryl Crowden, Head of The Salvation Army Emergency Services
Th,e alleged racket worked so swiftly that a car stolen f'rom Bendigo races on Wednesday was in the hands of a private motorist when police tracked it down yesterday.
At 7 a.m. yesterday, Dets. Don. Westwood and Derek Sharp of the Motor Squad arrested a man in a raid on a South Melbourne house.
Later a 47-year-old club proprietor was charged on four counts of car stealing
All star cast
■ Recent Army instruciion says that cars carrying top-ranking of officers must have stars pointed on them fore and aft-five for a Field Marshal, what we haven't got, down to one f or a Brigadier. Thought they'd paint the appropriate stars on the appropriate cars, but no, sir. They're painting five stars on ALL of them.
Classifieds 9489 2222
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Go directly to www.LocalPaper.com.au or www.MelbourneObserver.com.au to read digital editions (exact replicas of print editions), free. Online edition dates in 2025 are: Feb. 5, Feb. 12, Feb. 19, Feb. 26, Mar. 5, Mar. 12, Mar. 19, Mar. 26, Apr. 2, Apr. 9, Apr. 16, Apr. 30, May 7, May 14, May 21, May 28, Jun. 4, Jun. 11, Jun. 28, Jun. 25, Jul. 2, Jul. 9, Jul. 16, Jul. 23, Jul., 30, Aug. 6, Aug. 13, Aug. 10, Aug. 27, Sep. 3, Sep. 10, Sep. 17, Sep. 24, Oct. 1, Oct. 8, Oct. 15, Oct. 22, Oct. 29, Nov. 5, Nov. 12, Nov. 19, Nov. 26, Dec. 3, Dec. 10. Lodge ads by 4pm Friday prior to publication.
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Free non-commercial classified advertising is available for individual readers, selling iitems. Your ad can be up to 40 words. This service is available at the sole discretion of the Editor. Ads will appear for up to 4 weeks. Free ads are not available to businesses or organisations. Deadline: 4pm Fridays prior to Print Edition. You can lodge your Free Ad by:
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FREE non-commercial classified advertising is available for individual readers, selling iitems. Your ad can be up to 40 words. This service is available at the sole discretion of the Editor. Ads will appear for up to 4 weeks. Free ads are not available to businesses or organisations. Deadline: 4pm Fridays prior to Print Edition. You can lodge your Free Ad by:
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• EMAIL: editor@Local Paper.com.au
• POST: Mail the form (available in this newspaper) to PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095. Free Ads will not be accepted by phone.
FREE PHOTO ADS AdvertiseFree.com.au
BOOKS. Collection of Mary Grant vintage books. Mostly VGC with dust jack- ets. Offers welcome. Research. 9437 1253. JJ-NN
BOOSTER SEAT. Mothers hoice. Convertible. 6 months to 8 years. VGC. $40. Whittlesea. 0494 380 264. HH-LL
ALUMINIUM PUNT 4 metre, with all required safety equipment with relocatable folding seats plus 77.5hp Mercury outboard motor. GC. $1600. Seymour. 0410 032 064. NN-QQ
BARBIE Dolls and barbie Dresses. GC. 10 for $250. Surrey Hills. 0410 626 110, 4pm-10pm. RR-VV
BATHROOM TILES. To cover 270sq m. EC. $60. Ferntree Gully. 9758 3950. HH-LL
BBQ. Gas. 5-Burner. Wheels. New ignition assembly. Full gas bottle. EC. $100. Pascoe Vale. 04129 138 356. RR-VV
BBQ. Red Centre. 45cm round. Large cast iron plate trivet for boiling. Also hose and wind shield. New, still in box. $45. Bittern. 0459 558 055 RR-VV
BED. 3-seater and two seater. Red, vinyl. Dark wood trims. VGC. $300. Cranbourne, 0401 898 413. HH-LL
BED. Electric. King Size. High low. Head comes up to sitting position. Legs raise, bed tilts. 12 months old. No longer needed. Top quality mattress. EC. $3500. Yea. 0409 944 982. LL-OO
BIKE. Lady’s. Purple. Make: Huffey Friction. Complete with helmet and pump and basket. VGC. $120. Pakenham. 5940 5018. LL-OO
PRIVATE SELLERS can have a free 40-word ‘For Sale’ ad - plus a single colour photo - in The Local Paper Classifieds to sell their items. Your free ad will appear in all editions of The Local Paper, covering all suburbs of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula, and selected Victorian country areas. Your free ad will appear in up to 4 issues. There are no charges, no commissions. T&Cs apply. Lodge your ad at: www.AdvertiseFree.com.au
DRILL DRIVER. Ozito. 10mm, 28 ow, micro speed control, still in box. EC. $10. Mt Martha. 5973 4163. TT-XX
DISHWASHER. Norj. 13.7 litres per wash. Large. 2’ wide, 2.9high. Not connected. New. Bought for $720. Sell $360. Alexandra. 0409 470 107. NN-QQ
BRICKS. 500. Clean, as new $400. 100 face bricks, $120. New. Bittern. 0419 582 437. PP-TT
BRICKLAYERS TUBE & CLIP SCAFFOLDING TUBES clips swivels joiners putlog clips base plates sole boards Oregon planks. Genuine offers only enquires welcome GC. $6000. Crib Point. 0419 935 807 PP-TT
CARAVAN CRUSADER. 17ft 1998 pop top, full annexe. reg July 26. double bed. new mattress. 3 way fridge. Gas cook top and grill. Tows well. GC. $9000. Toolangoi. 0448 438 790. TT-XX
CARAVAN. Millard Grand Champion 17 FT Air/ con 3 way fridge microwave gas cook top double bed plus two smaller singles full annex with floor van cover Pop Top 1170 kg registered many extras. GC. $12,750. Flowerdale. 0411 577 050 PP-TT
CRICKET MEMORABILIA. 19 books. Bradman Calendar 1908-2001. Plus ‘Argus’ Magazines 1950, 1951 x 2. GC. Box Hill South. 9890 7904. PP-TT
DOLL HOUSE. Three level wood house with wood furniture, carpets, accessories, two families, baby dog, cat, plates, cups. Made of ceramics. $130. Bundoora. 9467 8990 TT-XX
ELECTRIC DRILL. Ryobi. 240V. 50Hz. 600w. With case. EC. $20. Mt Martha. 5973 4163. TT-XX
ELECTRIC WHEELCHAIR. ‘Pride Go Mobility Chair’. Hardly used. EC. $1400. Viewbank. John, 0418 583 120. LL-OO
LAND. Expansive acreage ideal for farming or livestock. Secure paddocks, peaceful setting, close to amenities. Option to lease land only or house and land together. Suitable for genuine agricultural use. GC. $420/month for the land only. Land and house, $15 00/month. Balnarring Beach. 0434189 449 PP-TT
LAWN MOWER. Ozito. Corded. With catcher. lightweight. Paid $149 at Bunnings. Sell $60. Mt Martha 5973 4163. JJ-NN
MATT BLATT egg chair on steel base. $130. Malvern East. 0419 685 666 PP-TT
MOBILITY SCOOTERS (2). Deceased estate. S840 (yellow). With battery, lights and all extras. EC. $1400. East Travel Elite, small and collapsable. Folds up easily buy very heavy. $500. Taylors Hill (Melton). Contact Len, 0401 679 745. TT-XX
MOBILITY SCOOTER. Mobility Scooter. Invacare Pegasus Metro- VGC Large 45km Range- Swivel Seat, Digital Dash, 10kph- Rear Bag, Shopping Basket, Spare Key & Charger. Too Many Features to List. Under Warranty, Can Deliver Free if Required. VGC. $1800. Moorabbin. 0401 980 969. PP-TT
MOTOR HOME.. With two solar panels for lights and air con. Double bed, gas cooker. Holden Rodeo 1998 rego till Feb. 24, 2026. Tour atlas inc. new battery and x bars. History of work completed. 1LB- 2CN. VGC. $19,000 ONO. Alexandra. 0409 470 107. LL-OO
PARTS for Ford AUIIV8. Secondhand. Struts. New parts: ball joints, 2 boxes of parts. VGC. $1000. Seymour 0419 881 573. N-Q
PIANOLA ROLLS. Around 50 rolls in all. Many older tunes. GC. $75. Malvern East. 0419 685 666. LL-OO
PHANTOM COMIC Collection. 1360. Continuous, No 692-1976. Also No 552 and 548. Replicas: 20 of between Nos 16-34. Doubles: 38. Phantom’s World, 8x. Sell full collection only. Best reasonable offer. Ferntree Gully. 9758 8990. RR-VV
PRESSURE WASHER. Karcher. Good working order. little used, complete with operating instructions. Purchaser to collect. GC. $55. Doreen. 9717 3485. HH-LL
QUEEN COVER SET. Laura Ashley, cotton. Size: 220cm x 240cm with 2 pillowcases. Pale blue with thin white stripes. Never used. EC. $25. Ashburton. 9885 2203. TT-XX
RECORDS. Capital./ 78rpm Les Paul and Mary Ford, 14 records. Also 2 records, 33rpm. GC. 78 rpm - $50. 33 rpm - $15. Box Hill. 9890 7904. TT-XX
RIDE-ON Deutscher 280 Honda 390 motor run fine seal on shaft leaks, heaps of parts including new seat, new cutting plate body part dismantled, everything is there. GC. $500 or offer. yarck. 0414 718 812. NN-QQ
ROLLER DOOR Electric motor. 4 Doors brand. Near new Model 4DR1 v4 with remotes. Still has new stickers on it. EC. $100. Whittlesea. 0419 002 507.LL-OO
SAWS. 5 vintage hand saws for woodwork. FC. $12. Also frame for manual sharpening included. GC. $12. Ashburton. 9885 2203. TT-XX
STATUES. Two garden vintage statues. 1: Greek lady, 66cm. 2: Bashful child, 59cm. 1 x buddha, 43cm, also baby deer snd four plaques. one tortoise, various designs. 10 peices. VGC. $300 ONO. Bittern. 0459 558 055. JJ-NN
$95. Bundoora. 9467 8990. TT-XX
TABLE.
TWO-PERSON SAW. $90. Mill Park. 9436 8935.HH-LL
GOD’S CHURCH invites faithful followwees of Christ to attend the New Testament local Passover night service. Alfredton, Ballarat. To secure your seat, 0419 327 366.N-P
THE SOUTH EAST CRCKET ASSOCIATION requires Umpuires. Full Training provided. Local competition. Women/girls most welcome. Payment up to $200 per day. Please reach out to Steve Jasek 0436 482 783 or Andrew Collison 0411 862 617. TT
RING PULLS off all aluminium cans and any quan- tity to assist towards people who need prosthetics and wheel chairs and walking frames. Genuine collector. Victoria wide. Ararat. 0458 339 871.
WANTED. Independent Support Provider for NDIS participant in Acheron, near Alexandra. Participant is 20yo male - living independently - loves outdoors,, nushwalks, fishing. Suit experienced male SP , contractor, registered, NDIS screening, refrences. Flexible hours. Immediate start. 0412 224 464. HH-LL
COMMUNITY GROUPS can advertise their upcoming events in The Local Paper, without advertising charges. Go to the What’s On - Free Ad Form section at the www.Local Paper.com.au website WHAT’S ON
Saturday, November 15. 10am-1pm. Annual Resident Fete. Berwick Brae Resident Fete at the village, 670-690 :Princes Hwy, Berwick. Stall, devonshire tea, sausage sizzle, raffles, entertainment. Proceeds towards charoty groups. $1-$6. Phone 8780 5300. adminberwickbraegardens @mecwarecare.org.au TT
Friday, December 8. 10am. Victoria Disability Sport abnd Recreation Festival 2025. People of all abilities can explore and experience accessable and inclusive sport and recreation at this annual Festoival. Attendees can join in hands-on activities, watch a thrilling wheelcahir rugby match, enjoy DJ entertainment, and meet world champion athletes. Free. At The Crown Promenade, 3 Whiteman St, Southbank. Phone 8652 9722. dsr.org.au/vdsrfestival TT-XX
WHEELBARROW. $75. Mill Park. 9436 8935. HH-LL
GRIDDLE. Cast iron. 33cm x 21cm. Very clean. As new. Pascoe Vale. 04129 138 356. RR-VV
PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT MELBOURNE
1. Optus and Vodafone are proposing to upgrade an existing mobile phone base station at 2 Swanston Street, Melbourne VIC 3000.
2. The proposed upgrade will consist of:
•Replacement of the existing shroud with a new shroud with a slightly larger diameter;
•Replacement of two (2) existing shared Optus/Vodafone panel antennas with two (2) new shared Optus/Vodafone panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m in length);
•Installation, relocation and removal of ancillary equipment, including sixteen (16) new Remote Radio Units (RRUs), a GPS antenna, mounts, feeders, cabling, combiners, and other associated equipment; and
•Internal works within the existing outdoor units.
3. In accordance with Section 7 of the Industry Code C564:2025 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment, we invite you to make comments about the proposal.
Please direct comments to Vanessa Wan at 0447 240 015 or via email at Optus.submissions@servicestream.com.au or via post at Level 3, Tower B, Zenith Centre, 821 Pacific Highway, Chatswood NSW 2067 by 5pm, Thursday 27 November 2025.
For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visits www.rfnsa.com.au/3000062.
NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION DETAILS
Application reference number: P25/1054
The Land affected by the application is located at: 3 KELBURN COURT SOMERS
PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT MICKLEHAM
1. Optus is proposing to upgrade an existing mobile phone base station at 1327 Hume Fwy, Mickleham VIC 3064.
2. The proposed upgrade will consist of:
•Replacement of one (1) existing panel antennas with one (1) new panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m in length);
•Installation, relocation and removal of ancillary equipment, including two (2) new Remote Radio Units (RRUs), a GPS antenna, mounts, feeders, cabling, combiners, and other associated equipment; and
•Internal works within the existing equipment shelter.
3. In accordance with Section 7 of the Industry Code C564:2025 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment, we invite you to make comments about the proposal.
4. Please direct comments to Vanessa Wan at 0447 240 015 or via email at Optus.submissions@servicestream.com.au or via post at Level 3, Tower B, Zenith Centre, 821 Pacific Highway, Chatswood NSW 2067 by 5pm, Thursday 27 November 2025.
For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visit www.rfnsa.com.au/3064002.
The Local Paper
News Extra
Intense blaze
■ Fire Rescue Victoria responded at 9.42pm on Saturday (Nov. 8) to an incident on Patterson St, Ringwood East, after callers to Triple Zero (000) reported a house fire.
Firefighters arrived within four minutes to find a single storey brick building well alight. Due to the intensity of the fire, firefighters were initially unable to enter the home to conduct a search. The house was reported to be inhabited by squatters. A search later confirmed no persons inside the building. No injuries have been reported.
The fire was declared under control at 10.17pm. Cause of the fire had not been determined, but has been deemed suspicious, said a fire Rescue Victoria representative.
The application is for a permit to: DEVELOPMENT OF A DOUBLE STOREY DWELLING AND FENCING, VEGETATION REMOVAL AND VARIATION OF ARESTRICTIVE COVENANT TO VARY PERMITTED MATERIALS
A permit is required under the following clauses of the planning scheme: Planning Scheme Clause: Matters for which a permit is required
Clause 42.01-2 (ESO20) Construct a building or construct or carry out works.
Clause 42.01-2 (ESO20) Remove, destroy or lop any vegetation, including dead vegetation.
Clause 42.02-2 (VPO1) Remove, destroy or lop any vegetation specified in the schedule to this overlay.
Clause 42.03-2 (SLO2) Construct a building or construct or carry out works.
Clause 42.03-2 (SLO2) Remove destroy or lop any vegetation.
Clause 42.03-2 (SLO4) Construct a building or construct or carry out works.
Clause 42.03-2 (SLO4) Remove destroy or lop any vegetation.
Clause 43.02-1 (DDO3) Construct a building or construct or carry out works.
Clause 43.02-1 (DDO3) Construct a fence specified in the schedule to this overlay.
Clause 52.02 Create, vary or remove an easement or restriction.
Applicant name:
TOM ROBERTSON ARCHITECTS
The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 26 NOVEMBER 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
PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT TEMPLESTOWE
1. Optus and Vodafone are proposing to upgrade an existing mobile phone base station at 177 Templestowe Road, Templestowe Lower VIC 3107 (16~A\PP2264).
2. The proposed upgrade will consist of:
•Replacement of three (3) existing Optus/Vodafone shared panel antennas with three (3) new Optus/Vodafone shared panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m in length);
•Installation, relocation and removal of ancillary equipment, including GPS antennas, Mast Head Amplifiers (MHAs), mounts, feeders, cabling, combiners, and other associated equipment; and
•Internal works within the existing equipment shelter.
3. In accordance with Section 7 of the Industry Code C564:2025 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment, we invite you to make comments about the proposal.
Please direct comments to Vanessa Wan at 0447 240 015 or via email at Optus.submissions@servicestream.com.au or via post at Level 3, Tower B, Zenith Centre, 821 Pacific Highway, Chatswood NSW 2067 by 5pm, Thursday 27 November 2025
For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visits www.rfnsa.com.au/3105003.
Station plans
■ Gabrielle Williams, Minister for Transport Infrastructure, on Sunday (Nov. 9) unveiled the Boronia Railway Station designs, which feature a striking new station forecourt canopy inspired by nearby Dandenong Ranges flora and an expanded concourse to improve connections across the rail line.
A new landscaped plaza between the station and Dorset Rd will create more green space and seating, while also providing a new community meeting place and simplifying pedestrian movement between the station and Boronia’s shopping precinct. The station concourse will be widened, with the ticket office relocated to the Erica Avenue entry and the protective services office moved to the Lupton Way entrance – boosting safety through improved visibility across the plaza and station area.
Accessibility will be enhanced with an upgraded pick-up and drop-off zone on Lupton Way, better footpaths to both station entrances, and more bike hoops and improved cycling connections.
Melton fire
■ Fire Rescue Victoria respondedat 5.42am Saturday (Nov. 8) to an incident on Coburns Rd, Melton, after callers to Triple Zero (000) reported a house fire. Crews arrived on scene within five minutes to find a single storey home fully involved in fire and threatening to spread to adjoining homes. Firefighters established firefighting hose lines to protect adjoining residences. Crews entered the building and contained the blaze. There were no injuries.
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