The Local Paper. Lilydale and Yarra Valley Expresss Edition. Wed., Oct. 8, 2025

SAY GOODBYE TO SEPTIC TANKS

Bushfire alert: clean-up time

■ Households and businesses across Monbulk are being encouraged to connect to the sewerage system and say goodbye to ageing septic tanks, boggy yards, unpleasant odours and the risk of polluted waterways.

Yarra Valley Water and Yarra Ranges Council have launched a new ‘Septic to Sewer’ campaign to highlight the benefits of connecting to a modern sewerage system.

Yarra Valley Water General Manager Asset Services Bridie Fennessy said making the switch delivers major environmental, community and health benefits.

“We’re sharing more information about the benefits of making the switch, so Monbulk households and businesses can move from out-of-date septic units to modern sewerage systems and immediately start seeing the difference,” Ms Fennessy said.

“Customers tell us they no longer face ongoing maintenance or upgrade costs, odours or boggy patches in their yards. Problems that can be all too common with ageing septic systems,” Ms Fennessy said.

“Customers also say they feel more confident when hosting family and friends, knowing their systems can cope with the extra use.”

Monbulk local resident and business owner Nikki Carter recently connected to the new sewerage system and is very happy with the change: “To celebrate, I hosted a Toilet Party with friends from far and abroad, with an odour free toilet flush and some nibblies and wine in our backyard, which is no longer soggy.”

SUNNY START TO SUMMER SPORT

■ Thirty players participatecd in the first of three rounds playing a stroke event at yea Golf Club at the wekend.

Winner of the day with a nett 68 was Sam Wright (29) with new playing member Paul Heyen (28) with nett 69 second. Third having a nett 70 was Michael Spagnolo (8). NTP was another new playing member in Jim Redmond on the 2nd. Rob Gill took out the Club Award.

Progressive leading scores in the Championship(gross scores, that is off the stick) are in A-Grade: Michael Spagnolo 78, Andrew Bohn 79, Rick Wills 81, Alan Pell 84. BGrade: Zach Pell 88, Peter Johnston 90, Neil Peterson 91, Martin Lowe/Anthony La Grutta/ Tony Rule/Greg Clements/Kevin Coghlan all on 92. C-Grade: Phil Armstrong 94, Russ Wealands 95, Sam Wright/Steve Rumney 97.

In the Ladies Stroke event, new Captain Vicki Clements (24) had nett 69 to win from Sharon Grogan(25) with nett 71. Third with nett 73 on CB was Judi Newman(36) from fourth Jan Wealands. Jan was the NTP on the 2nd.

★

In Seymour District Cricket, A-Grade matches start this Saturday (Oct. 11): Seymour v Puckapunyal Senior Mixed A (Chittick Park East), Alexandra A Grade v Pyalong A Grade (Leckie Park), Avenel Senior Men A v Yea Tigers A Grade (Avenel Recreation Reserve). Bye:Tallarook A Grade. B-Grade: Seymour v Puckapunyal. Alexandra B Grade v Pyalong B Grade. Avenel Senior Men B v Yea Tigers B Grade. Bye: Tallarook.

■ Yarra Ranges residents are being urged to prepare their properties for summer and help to reduce bushfire risk as the weather warms up.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Jim Child, said the Country Fire Authority had warned of a dry fire season ahead, with a potentially high fire risk, due to lower rainfall in the winter months.

“The CFA has said that we’ll have a higher risk for bushfire this year than we have in a few years, which means there’s no room for complacency,”Cr Child said.

“The Yarra Ranges, particularly the Upper Yarra, has a much higher bushfire risk than other parts of Victoria

“The best time to prepare your property for bushfire is yesterday; the next best time is right now. Ensuring your grass is mowed, picking up dead leaves, twigs and branches and trimming back trees and plants – particularly from around your home – could make the world of difference if a fire breaks out. Cleaning roof spouting and under and around decks is crucial.

“Before the CFA’s Fire Danger Period is declared, residents can burn off subject to very strict rules.

“I encourage everyone to look up when they can burn off, and make the most of all avenues, including the weekly FOGO collections.

“Our emergency services do an amazing job keeping our communities safe throughout the year, but managing bushfire risk is everyone’s responsibility.

“By preparing our properties for summer, we can rest a bit easier when the weather warms up.”

When the CFA’s Fire Danger Period begins, burning off without a permit will be prohibited in all of the Yarra Ranges

“As the fire risk increases heading towards summer, the Fire Danger Period can be declared at any time, with little notice, so never leave burning off to the last minute,” Cr Child said.

“The Fire Danger Period is the official start of the bushfire season, and the fact is that we’ve already had warnings that this season may be hotter and drier than others, so we anticipate the period will start sooner.”

Cr Jim Child, Mayor

● ● ● ●

Bridie Fennessy, YV Water

The Local Paper

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8,

OPEN SPACE PLAN ADOPTED

Local Briefs

Ranges teens charged

■ Investigators from Croydon Divisional Response Unit have charged four teenage males after tracking an allegedly stolen vehicle across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs and CBD on Monday afternoon last week (Sep. 29).

Police will allege the stolen BMW was driving erratically on the Eastern Fwy in Doncaster about 12.30pm.

The BMW was followed into the CBD where it allegedly struck a pedestrian on Exhibition St.

The woman was transported to hospital for observation with non-life-threatening injuries.

The BMW, allegedly stolen from the Boroondara area, was dumped a short time later in the Bourke St Mall and the four occupants fled on foot.

They were arrested a short time later outside a shopping centre on Lonsdale St.

A 17-year-old boy from the Greater Bendigo area was charged with (2x) theft of motor vehicle and theft. He was bailed to appear at a children’s court at a later date.

A 17-year-old from the Yarra Ranges area was charged with theft of motor vehicle, conduct endangering life, drive in manner dangerous, drive speed dangerous, unlicensed driving and fail to stop at accident. He was remanded to appear at a children’s court.

A 16-year-old from the Yarra Ranges area was charged with aggravated home invasion, aggravated burglary, (4x) theft of motor vehicle, attempted aggravated burglary and (2x) theft. He was remanded to appear at a children’s court.

A 16-year-old from the Bendigo area was charged with aggravated home invasion, (2x) theft of motor vehicle and theft. He was remanded to appear at a children’s court.

It’s Shocktober

■ Ambulance Victoria’s annual campaign Shocktober includes the Eildon Hour with an Ambo which takes place at Lake Eildon Visitor Centre at 10am on Tuesday, October 28.

● ● Community engagement on the Boundary Creek Open Space Plan eaerlier this year. Photo: Murrindindi Shire Council.

■ Murrindindi Shire Council has adopted the Boundary Creek Open Space Concept Plan at Yea.

the Council says it sets a clear direction for the future of this important community space.

“The four-hectare site, located along Boundary Creek and adjacent to the Yea Springs Estate, was created through land provided to Council by the Estate developer, as part of a public open space contribution,” said a Shire representative.

“Council assumed management of the site in 2024 and recognised the need for a longterm plan to guide its development and care.

“The Concept Plan was shaped through community input, including drop-in sessions and an online survey.

“Feedback highlighted strong support for a space that encourages passive and active recreation, and informal gathering.

“The community also prioritised improved accessibility, including safe walking links between Yea Springs Estate and the town centre, protection of the creek corridor environment, and better emergency access.

“Features of the plan include nature-inspired play elements, picnic areas, seating, walking paths, and landscaping that reflects

the natural character of the site. The plan also supports future connectivity with nearby residential developments and aligns with broader planning goals in the Draft Yea Structure Plan

The Concept Plan was prepared with funding support from the State and Federal Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and developed in partnership with Landscape Architecture and Urban Design Consultants, Michael Smith & Associates.

“Adopting the Plan gives Council a clear guide for planning, funding advocacy and maintenance programming. Early-stage works are estimated at $123,860 in capital items, with additional ongoing maintenance costs to follow.”

Cheviot Ward Councillor and Sustainability and Assets Portfolio holder Cr Sue Carpenter said the Plan provides long-term direction for an area already valued by the community.

“We’ve had some really helpful feedback from the Yea community about what they’d like to see in this space.

“Residents are looking for somewhere simple and welcoming, where they can walk the dog, take the kids to play, or just sit and enjoy the outdoors,” Cr Carpenter said.

Snake sighted

■ A snake, believed to be a copperhead but potentially a brown snake, has been reported across the road from Wandong Primary School near the rail bridge.

Local snake removalist Anthony Calleja was notified and was tosafely relocate the snake once it reappears, likely on the next sunny day.

“We appreciate the community staying alert and taking care while the snake is relocated,” said a Mitchell Shire Council representative.

“Mitchell Shire Council is unable to assist with snake removal. There are several private snake catches working in Mitchell Shire and fees for their services will apply.”

‘No’ to Optus tower

■ Nillumbik Council voted last week to reject a lease proposal for Optus infrastructure at Eltham Lower Park.

There were 66 submissions from the public: 27 of these were in support, 36 objected and three were unsure of the lease proposal.

The 10-year lease was to have been worth $25,000 per year, aggregating $250,000 over the decade.

The Council said it was committed to addressing the telecommunications blackspot in the Eltham area and requests Indara to consider an alternative option for the siting of telecommunications infrastructure, either within Eltham Lower Park or at another suitable nearby location, that balances improved connectivity with the protection of the natural environment.

The Local Paper

association with the Established September 14, 1969

Published in localised editions in 40 areas across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and some country areas.

ABOUT US

Incorporating the traditions of the Evelyn Observer (Est. 1873), Seymour Express (Est. 1872), Yea Advertiser (Est. 1995), Yarra Valley Advertiser (Est. 1995), Whittlesea Advertiser (Est. 1995).

The Local Paper is published weekly online and printed fortnightly and circulates in local editions:

• Regional/’Dindi Local’ Edition: Murrindindi, Mansfield, Strathbogie, rural sections of Nillumbik and Whittlesea

• ‘Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express’ Edition: Yarra Ranges Shire

• Mitchell Shire Edition: Mitchell Shire

CONTACT US

Phone: 1800 231 311, 9489 2222, 9439 9927, 0450 399 932, 5797 2656. Reg. Office: 30 Glen Gully Rd, Eltham, Vic 3095 (same address for 31 years)

Mail: PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095

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Matt Bissett-Johnson, Cartoonist Peter Kemp, Art Rob Foenander, Music

Editor: Ash Long

Features Editor: Peter Mac

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 Semmel

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‘Don’t short-change us on bridge’

■ Murrindindi Shire Council is calling for tenders to reinstate Breakaway Bridge at Acheron

The Council is telling State and Federal Governments that full funding is needed to deliver a safe, functional and futureproofed bridge.

Breakaway Bridge was damaged in the October 2022 floods, severing a vital connection for Acheron and surrounding districts.

“Since then, Council has worked with Emergency Recovery Victoria and other agencies under the joint CommonwealthState Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements to secure a replacement crossing,” said a Murrindindi Council representative.

“Council recently received an offer from ERV of $5.2 million to cover construction and project costs to date.

“Independent advice and Council’s own assessments indicate that delivering a resilient bridge to contemporary standards will cost significantly more than this amount.

“To preserve the current funding offer and maintain momentum, Council is calling for tenders this month seeking two design-and-construct options, with submissions due by the end of October:

“Option One - ERV supported: singlelane bridge with traffic lights and battery backup; demolition of the original timber bridge

“Option Two - Alternative: dual-lane bridge built to contemporary standards, without reliance on traffic lights; demolition of the original timber bridge ERV has indicated its

Long Shots

funding would support construction of a 105-metre single lane bridge with traffic signals.

“While such a design would technically carry vehicles, Council is concerned this option does not meet contemporary Australian road and bridge design standards.

“Reliance on traffic lights introduces risks in a disaster-prone area with frequent power outages, heavy fog and limited emergency access.

“Independent advice confirms that a dual-lane bridge is the only compliant and resilient solution for this location.

“The Acheron community is no stranger to disasters.

“It has endured the 2009 fires, major floods in 2022 and 2024, and frequent power and communication outages.

“These conditions demand resilient infrastructure that ensures safety, emergency access, and reliable connectivity.

Transport Accident Commission data confirms this region is already overrepresented in serious road injuries and fatalities.”

The Council wrote on Friday (Oct. 3) to Vicki Ward, Minister for Emergency Services; Jaclyn Symes, Minister for Regional Development; and Melissa Horne, Minister for Roads and Road Safety.

The Council isd calling for urgent support to secure funding for a dual-lane bridge that meets contemporary standards and restores safety and resilience for the Acheron community.

Murrindindi Shire

Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher said this issue goes beyond replacing a bridge.

Local Photo Flashback

The Local Paper

In association with the Established September 14, 1969

Online weekly. Print copies fortnightly. Published in localised editions in 40 areas across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and some country areas.

MANSFIELD

Mansfield readership is in the township of Mansfield. The Mansfield Shire comprises Ancona, Barjarg, Barwite, Bonnie Doon, Boorolite, Bridge Creek, Delatite, Gaffneys Creek, Goughs Bay, Howes Creek, Howqua, Howqua Hills, Howqua Inlet, Jamieson, Kevington, Lake Eildon, Nillahcootie, Piries, Sawmill Settlement, Tolmie, Woodfield and Woods Point. Mansfield Shire is home to 10,546 people, living in approximately 6612 homes.

MITCHELL

Incorporating the traditions of the Seymour Express (Est. 1872) Mitchell Shire comprises Beveridge, Broadford, Kilmore, Puckapunyal, Seymour, Tallarook, Tooborac, Trawool, Wallan, Wandong and Heathcote Junction. Mitchell Shire is home to more than 49,216 people, living in approximately 16,321 homes.

MURRINDINDI

Incorporating the traditions of the Yea Advertiser (Est. 1995). Murrindindi comprises Acheron, Alexandra, Buxton, Cathkin, Castella, Caveat, Devils River, Dropmore, Eildon, Fawcett, Flowerdale, Ghin Ghin, Glenburn, Gobur, Granton, Highlands, Homewood, Kanumbra, Kerrisdale, Killingworth, Kinglake, Kinglake Central, Kinglake West, Koriella, Limestone, Maintongoon, Marysville, Molesworth, Murrindindi, Narbethong, Pheasant Creek, Rubicon, Strath Creek, Taggerty, Taylor Bay, Terip Terip, Thornton, Toolangi, Whanregarwen, Yarck, Yea. Murrindindi Shire is home to more than 14,478 people, living in approximately 6293 homes.

NILLUMBIK (RURAL)

Incorporating the traditions of the Diamond Valley Advertiser (Est. 1995) and The Advertiser (earlier Evelyn Observer) (Est. Oct. 31, 1873)

Nillumbik Shire (rural) comprises Arthurs Creek, Bend of Islands, Christmas Hills, Cottles Bridge, Diamond Creek, Doreen, Eltham, Eltham North, Hurstbridge, Kangaroo Ground, Kinglake, Kinglake Central, Kinglake West, Nutfield, Panton Hill, Plenty, Research, Smiths Gully, St Andrews, Strathewen, Warrandyte North, Watsons Creek. Nillumbik Shire is home to more than 64,659 people, living in approximately 21,753 homes.

STRATHBOGIE (PART)

Starthbogie readership area comprises Avenel, Euroa, Nagambie, Violet Town. Strathbogie Shire is home to more than 11,578 people, living in approximately 5768 homes.

WHITTLESEA (RURAL)

Incorporating the traditions of the Whittlesea Advertiser (Est. 1995) Whittlesea Post (Est. 1924), and The Advertiser (earlier Evelyn Observer) (Est. Oct. 31, 1873) Whittlesea Post readership area comprises Arthurs Creek, Beveridge, Donnybrook, Doreen, Eden Park, Hazel Glen, Humevale, Kinglake West, Mernda, South Morang, Whittlesea, Wollert, Woodstock, Yan Yean. The City of Whittlesea is home to more than 197,491 people, living in approximately 71,014 homes.

YARRA RANGES

Incorporating the traditions of the Lilydale and Yarra valley Express (Est. June 30, 1886) Yarra Ranges readership area comprises Badger Creek, Chirnside Park, Chum Creek, Coldstream, Dixons Creek, Don Valley, East Warburton, Fernshaw, Gilderoy, Gladysdale, Gruyere, Healesville, Hoddles Creek, Launching Place, Lilydale, Millgrove, Mooroolbark, Mount Evelyn, Powelltown, Seville, Seville East, Steels Creek, Wandin East, Wandin North, Warburton, Wesburn, Wonga Park (part), Woori Yallock, Yarra Glen, Yarra Junction, Yellingbo and Yering. Yarra Ranges Shire is home to more than 158,831 people, living in approximately 58,509 homes.

Cheryl Threadgold, Local Theatre Julie Houghton, The Arts Kevin Trask, Entertainment

Rourke, Film Ted Ryan, Horse Racing Len Baker, Harness Racing

Statewide

NORTH Firearms seized

■ Detectives from Taskforce Lunar have charged a woman after police seized firearms and explosives as part of an ongoing investigation into a serious organised crime group.

Broadmeadows Police executed a warrant at a Campbellfield factory and located a stolen vehicle bearing cloned number plates.

During a search of the vehicle, detectives located seven firearms including a Remington 30-06 bolt action rifle, a Predator 12-gauge shotgun, a loaded automatic ‘AR’ style rifle, a Remington 30-06 pump action rifle, a loaded .44 calibre revolver handgun, two semi-automatic handguns, and various types of ammunition.

They also found a large number of explosives, chemicals and equipment.

Members of the Arson and Explosives Squad and Bomb Response Unit also attended the scene.

Police believe the quantity of explosives seized had the potential to completely demolish a building.

On Tuesday last week (Sep. 23), detectives from Taskforce Lunar executed two search warrants at residential addresses in Doreen and Dandenong.

A number of mobile phones, cloned numberplates and cash were seized from the Doreen address.

A 32-year-old Dandenong woman was arrested and interviewed by police.

She was subsequently charged with the following:

■ Possess traffickable quantity of unregistered firearms;

■ Possess/carry/use unregistered Cat A or B longarm;

■ Possess/carry/use unregistered Cat C or D longarm;

■ Possess/carry/use unregistered general category handgun;

■ Possess cartridge ammunition without licence;

■ Possess explosive substance; and

■ Theft of motor vehicle.

The woman was to face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court

‘WE CANNOT ALLOW CRIME TO GROW SO QUICKLY’

■ Victoria Police has commented on the growing rate of crime, saying that the increase cannot be allowed to grow.

“There were 638,640 criminal offences recorded in Victoria in the 12 months to end of June 2025 – an increase of 86,587 offences or 15.7 per cent,” said a Police representative.

“When population growth is considered, the crime rate rose by 13.8 per cent from the previous 12 months (8,998.9 offences per 100,000 people).

“As a society, we simply cannot allow the level of crime we are seeing to become normalised and accepted – every Victorian deserves to feel safe in their home, within the community and on the roads.

“Victoria’s crime rate can reduce when there is strong accountability for offending, combined with ongoing swift arrests and proactive operations to prevent crime in the first place.

Fastest growing offences are mostly acquisitive crimes. In order, these crimes are:

■ Theft from motor vehicle (86,351 offences, +24,409 or 39.4%)

■ Motor vehicle theft (33,018 offences, +9,786 or 42.1%)

■ Theft from a retail store (41,667 offences, +9,004 or 27.6%)

■ Theft (other) offences (58,593 offences, +7,931 or 15.7%), with petrol the most common item stolen

Statewide

Across Victoria

CARRUM DOWNS

Police car rammed

■ Police arrested five men after a police vehicle was rammed in Carrum Downs Officers on patrol first responded to reports of three vehicles performing burn outs in an industrial area on Sahra Grove about 11.40pm on Tuesday, September 23.

As police approached the scene it is alleged that a Holden Commodore accelerated heavily, ramming the police car front on. It is understood the Commodore, which had no plates, then reversed into a tree before fleeing the scene.

The officers inside the vehicle were not injured.

With the assistance of the Air Wing, vehicle was followed as it drove towards Frankston-Dandenong Rd, before continuing at speed onto Skye Rd, the Frankston Fwy, and towards Mornington-Tyabb Rd in Moorooduc.

Stop sticks were successfully deployed on Purves Rd in Main Ridge and the quintet were arrested.

Officers searched the Commodore and located and seized a number of tools and balaclavas.

One man, aged 19, is expected to be interviewed in relation to the incident.

The other men, aged 27, 34, 23 and 18, were spoken to and released pending further enquiries.

The Commodore was not stolen.

ST KILDA

Murder charge

■ Homicide Squad detectives have charged a man following the death of a man in St Kilda in February this year.

A 31-year-old St Kilda man, who is currently in custody on unrelated matters, has been charged with murder.

He was to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Monday this week (Sep. 29).

The charge follows an incident where emergency services were first called to reports of a fire at the Chapel St address about 8.40pm on Wednesday, February 5.

● ● ● ● Mike Bush, Police Chief Commissioner

Extra meeting draws criticism

● Craig Lloyd, Whittlesea CEO

■ An extra meeting of Whittlesea Council is due to be held next Tuesday (Oct. 14), just prior to the expected return of suspended Mayor Cr Aidan McLindon.

The meeting, being held in addition to the regular meeting on October 21, is expected to include a resolution by Councillors of a new contract for Chief Executive Officer Craig Lloyd.

Council Watch Victoria Inc. is highly critical of the extra meeting and its timing:

“Council has quietly slipped in an extra meeting for October14 – just three days before Cr McLindon returns from suspension.

“Why not wait until after? Oh no, it gets juicier … On the secretive agenda:

■ CEO’s contract renewal – in confidential business, of course.

■ Proposed Hindu Temple – guaranteed to spark huge community interest.

“But who actually decided to move these items off the “too big” October 21 agenda?

“The CEO? Nope – he’s on leave.

“The Mayor (Cr Martin Taylor)? He told us it's not him.

“That leaves… Acting CEO Deb Wood –who just happens to report directly to the same CEO, Craig Lloyd, whose contract is up.”

The agenda for the October 14 meeting had not been published when this issue of TheLocalPaper went to press.

Council Watch Victoria Inc. has previously claimed that the inquiry into Cr McLindon’s behaviour, and subsequent suspension from the Council, has cost $2 million.

In its social media posts, Council Watch Victoria has not published any evidence to substantiate the claim.

Children’s Week in Yarra Ranges

■ Families are invited to celebrate Children’s Week (October 18-26), with a range of events being held across the Yarra Ranges

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Jim Child, encouraged families to sign up early for events.

“Children’s Week is a time when local children get to learn, play and explore, with a range of free events being hosted by local community services, with the support of Council

“Wherever you are, there should be an event close by. Children can meet local emergency services workers, take part in an art experience, learn about animal habitats and more.

“I’m really proud of the events that we have coming up, and there’s something for everyone in our event lineup.

“Events do book out, so I’d encourage families to visit yarraranges.vic.gov.au/families to check out the events and book now.”

Theme for Children’s Week 2025 is Everyone Should Know About Children’s Rights, referencing Article 42 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child,which acknowledges and promotes the rights and wellbeing of children across the world, outlining how countries should protect children from harm.

5% DEPOSITS LAUNCHED

■ The Federal Government is helping more Australians realise their dream of home ownership, with 5 per cent deposits for all first home buyers launched last week (Wed., Oct. 1).

Through the expanded 5 per cent deposit scheme, the Government will guarantee a portion of the first home buyer’s loan, so they can purchase with a lower deposit and not pay Lenders Mortgage Insurance.

“Five per cent deposits for all first home buyers will mean more people can get into their own home sooner and levels up the playing field to back a new generation of first home buyers into the housing market,” McEwen MHR Rob Mitchell said.

“We want to help young people and first home buyers achieve the dream of home ownership sooner and now all first home buyers in McEwen will be able to buy a home of their own with a deposit of just 5 per cent.”

In McEwen, more than 1641 locals have been able to buy their first homes thanks to the expanded 5 per cent scheme.

Under these changes, all first home buyers in McEwen will have access to 5 per cent deposits, with np caps on places or income limits.

Property price caps will also be set higher in line with average house prices, providing access to a greater variety of homes.

Pet Expo on October 19

■ Nillumbik Council’s much-loved, long-running Pet Expo is coming back to Diamond Creek on Sunday 19 October.

The event will feature face painting, pony rides, kids’ activities, food and retail stalls and entertainment.

There will be a Vision Australia puppy performance, help with barking dogs courtesy of Leading the Hounds, plus a range of rescue organisations on-site.

Pet competitions are back too, with prizes on offer for best trick, best dressed, best pet/ owner lookalike, smallest pet and biggest pet.

Nillumbik Mayor Cr John Dumaresq said the expo helps educate visitors about responsible pet ownership in a fun and engaging way.

“Our Community Safety team will be available to answer any questions you have about pets, assisting with free first-time pet registrations and providing free reusable pet goodie bags,” Cr Dumaresq said.

“There is plenty on offer for cat owners as well as dog lovers, including cat enrichment talks, agility play and pet products,” he said.

Ellis Ward councillor Peter Perkins said the Nillumbik Pet Expo remains one of Diamond Creek’s biggest family friendly events. The Nillumbik Pet Expo will be held at Marngrook Oval in Diamond Creek from 10am-4pm on Sunday, October 19. Entry is free.

Fire inspections

■ Fire season is fast approaching, which means Murrindindi Shire Fire Prevention Officers will soon begin inspections to help identify and reduce fire hazards across the community.

“Fire prevention isn’t optional, it’s a legal responsibility we all share. By working together, we can help stop fires from starting and spreading in our Shire,” said a Council representative.

“Our Fire Prevention Officers will be working alongside landowners to find practical ways to manage risks.

“In some cases, they may need to issue notices asking for works to make properties safer. These steps aren’t about being strict – they’re about protecting people, homes and the environment we all value. In rare cases where works aren’t completed, further action may be required – but our aim is always to support landowners to get the job done first.”

● ● ● ● Rob Mitchell MHR

● ● Nillumbik Pet Expo

Where

■

■

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Alexandra Newsagency. 82-84 Grant St.

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Corner Hotel.

65 Grant St.

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ THORNTON. Thornton General Store. 1365 TaggertyThornton Rd.

■ ■ WATTLE GLEN. Peppers

■ ■ WARRANDYTE. Warrandyte Newsagency/Post Office. 100 Melbourne Hill Rd.

Court Lists

Seymour Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings

Thursday, October 9

Local News Road re-opens

■ Works on the Maroondah Aqueduct bridge on Eltham-Yarra Glen Rd were completed ahead of schedule, allowing for the re-opening last week.

■

■

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Endeavour

■

Alexandra (BP). 10 Downey St.

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Foodworks. 102 Grant St.

■

Paddock General Store. 13 Kangaroo Ground-Wattle Glen Rd.

■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Champions IGA Supermarket. 2/16 Church St.

■ WESBURN. Hotel. 2882 Warburton Hwy.

■ WONGA PARK. IGA Xpress.

70 Jumping Creek Rd.

Train line works

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■

■ ALEXANDRA. Mount Pleasant Hotel. 90 Grant St.

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Nutrien Harcourts. 56 Grant St.

■

■

■ ■ WHITTLESEA. El Azar Milk Bar. 13 Church St.

■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Royal Mail Hotel. 29 Beech St.

■ ■ ■ WOORI YALLOCK. Hillcrest Little Store. 1745 Warburton Hwy.

■ WOORI YALLOCK. Woori Yallock Newsagency. Shop 4,1585 Warburton Hwy.

■

■

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Shamrock Hotel. 80 Grant St.

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Simpson’s Fuel (Caltex). 25 Aitken St.

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Totally Trout. 42 Downey St.

■ ■ BUXTON. Blue Igloo Roadhouse. 2200 Maroondah Hwy.

■

■ BUXTON. Buxton Hotel. 2192 Maroondah Hwy.

■

■ BUXTON. Shell Buxton. 2093 Maroondah Hwy.

■

■ DIAMOND CREEK. Diamond Creek Newsagency. Shop 62a Main Rd, Diamond Creek Plaza.

■ ■ DOREEN. Doreen General Store. 920 Yan Yean Rd.

■

■ EILDON. Foodworks. 18 Main St.

■

■ ELTHAM. Eltham Newsagency. 2/963 Main Rd.

■

■ EPPING. APCO Service Station. Cnr McDonalds Rd and High St.

■ ■ EPPING. Epping RSL. Harvest Home Rd.

■

■ FLOWERDALE. Flowerdale Community House. 36 Silver Creek Rd.

■

■ FLOWERDALE. Flowerdale Hotel. 3325 Whittlesea-Yea Rd.

■

■ ■ ■ ■ FLOWERDALE. Hazeldene General Store. 6 Curlings Rd.

■

■ GLENBURN. Glenburn Roadhouse. 3883 Melba Hwy.

■

■ ■ ■ HURSTBRIDGE. Hurstbridge Newsagency. 900 Main Hustbridge Rd.

■ ■ KANGAROO GROUND. Kangaroo Ground General Store. 280 Eltham-Yarra Glen Rd.

■ ■ KINGLAKE. Cafe. WhittleseaKinglake Rd.

■ ■ KINGLAKE. Foodworks. 12 Whittlesea-Kinglake Rd.

■ ■ KINGLAKE. Kinglake Pub. 28 Whittlesea-Kinglake Rd.

■ ■ KINGLAKE. United Service Station. 2 Glenburn-Kinglake Rd.

■

■ ■ ■ LAURIMAR. Laurimar Newsagency. 95 Hazel Glen Dr.

■ ■ MANSFIELD. Foodworks. 119 High St.

■

■

■ ■ MARYSVILLE. Foodworks. 40A Darwin St.

■ ■ MERNDA. Mernda Villages Post Office. 50 Mernda Village Dr.

■

■ ■ ■ MOLESWORTH. Molesworth Store. 4353 Goulburn Valley Hwy.

■ ■ NARBETHONG. Black Spur Inn. 436 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Whittlesea Bowls Club. 101 Church St.

■

■ ■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Whittlesea Court House. 74 Church St.

■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Whittlesea NewsXpress. 45 Church St.

■ ■ WOLLERT. Wollert General Store. 491 Epping Rd.

■ ■ YARCK. Buck’s Country Bakehouse. 6585 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ YARCK. Giddy Goat Cafe. 6606 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ YARCK. Yarck Hotel. Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ YEA. Amble Inn Cafe. 24 High St.

■ YARRA GLEN. IGA Supermarket. 1/38 Bell St.

■

■ YARRA GLEN. Yarra Glen Newsagency. 32 Bell St.

■ YARRA JUNCTION. Yarra Junction Newsagency. 2454 Warburton Hwy.

Mitchell Shire Edition

■ BEVERIDGE. Beveridge Post Office. Lot 1 Old Hume Hwy.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Corner Store. 89 High St.

■

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Hotel. 100 High St.

■

■

■

■

■ YEA. Country Club Hotel. 18 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Endeavour Petroleum (BP). 31 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Newsagency. 67 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Post Office. 123 High St.

■

■ YEA. Foodworks. 10 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Giddy Coat Cafe. 94

High St.

■

■ ■ BROADFORD. Broadford Service Station. 165 High St.

■ There is a month-long disruption to train services on the Hurstbridge Line and a major road closure on Grimshaw St in Greensborough during October.

Works progress on the M80 Ring Road Completion Project.

Buses are replacing trains on the Hurstbridge Line between Heidelberg and Eltham until the last service on Thursday, October 30.

Passengers should allow extra time when travelling and check the Transport Victoria website or PTV mobile app to plan their journey.

Buses will be a mix of express and stopping all stations services and will operate as often as every 5-10 minutes. Additional express services will operate direct between Eltham and Parliament during weekday peak periods.

Grimshaw St, Greensborough, is closed in sections between the Greensborough Bypass and William St/Adeline St until 5am Saturday, November 1.

Drivers should allow up to 45 minutes for the detour via the Greensborough Bypass, Diamond Creek Rd, Main St and The Circuit.

■

■

■ ■ NARBETHONG. Black Spur Roadhouse. 264 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ PANTON HILL. Panton Hill General Store. 586 Kangaroo Ground-St Andrews Rd.

■

■ PANTON HILL. Panton Hill Hotel. 633 Kangaroo Ground-St Andrews Rd.

■

■ PHEASANT CREEK. Flying Tarts Cafe. 888 WhittleseaKinglake Rd.

■ ■ PHEASANT CREEK. Pheasant Creek Store. 884 Whittlesea-Kinglake Rd.

■ ■ RESEARCH. Research Post Office. 1546 Main Rd.

■ ■ SMITHS GULLY. Smiths Gully General Store. 914 Kangaroo Ground-St Andrews Rd.

■ ■ SOUTH MORANG. Milk Bar.

15 Gorge Rd.

■

■

■ ■ ST ANDREWS. St Andrews General Store. 10 Caledonia St.

■ ■ ST ANDREWS. St Andrews Hotel. 79 Burns St.

■ ■ STRATH CREEK. Strath Creek Post Office. 8 Glover Rd.

■

■

■ ■ TAGGERTY. Taggerty General Store. 26 Taggerty-Thornton Rd.

■ ■ THORNTON. 4 Ways Diner.

1369 Taggerty-Thornton Rd.

■

■ ■ ■ THORNTON. Rubicon Hotel. 1362 Taggerty-Thornton Rd.

■ YEA. Grand Central Hotel. 64

■

■

High St.

■

■

■

■ YEA. Marmalades. 20 High St.

■

■ YEA. Mint and Jam. 46 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Nutrien Harcourts. 52

High St.

■

■ BROADFORD. Commercial Hotel. 31 High St.

■ BROADFORD. High Street Bakery. 67A High St.

■ BROADFORD. IGA Supermarket. 65 High St.

■

■ ■ BROADFORD. Stuty’s Bakehouse. 91-93 High St.

Adams, Jaidyn Barham, Matt Stuart Bell, James Owen Benmasaud, Nathan Timothy Biddle, Aaron Board, Jeffrey Maxwell Bond, Jason Borham, Shane Brooksbank, Callum Burns, Jemma Cottier, Nicole Creighton, Stephen David Crofts, Teakamarie Densworth, Wesley James Djuric, Miroslav Fadakaran, Morteza Fleming, Daniel James Fleming, Kristine Formosa, Shane Garlick, Frances Gleeson, Renee Godwill, David Greenova Pty Ltd Kelly, Brandon Kirkham, Kaylam Macneil, Caleb Maino-Hennessy, Dale Mowbray, Adam Charles Mudd, Eric Newell, Madeline Sarah Newey, Shae Petronio, Jaimie Dean Pettie, Kevin Hughie Philips, Desmond Alan Reid, Darren Thompson, Mark David Tonkin, Lee Trim, Brandon Trimboli, Mario Ward, Joshua Warne, Kyle Wright, Hailey

Buses on routes 566 and 902 will detour around the road closures and will miss four stops in both directions.

Crews will work on the rail corridor and the road above to build the eastern foundations for the Grimshaw St road bridge over the Hurstbridge Line, a new walking and cycling underpass and new gantries over the road.

■

■

■ ■ YEA. Peppercorn Hotel. 21 Station St.

■ ■ YEA. Provender Bakery. 56 High St.

■ DONNYBROOK. Donnybrook Hotel. 825 Donnybrook Rd.

■ DONNYBROOK. Donnybrook Post Office. 810 Donnybrook Rd.

■ KILMORE. BP. 102 Sydney St.

■ YEA. Rendezvous In Yea. 10

■

High St.

■ ■ YEA. Royal Mail Hotel. 88

High St.

■

■ KILMORE. Kemp’s Bakery. 65 Sydney St.

Friday, October 10 Al Qattan, Okba Brown, David Ronald Cleveland, Brady Dalli, Justin Mccormick, Shane Ashley Monaghan, Zak William Pankhurst, Shannon Scicluna, Brandon Shah, Talhah

Off to Canberra

■ Cr Lawrie Cox has been authorised by his fellow Whittlesea Councillors to attend the National Growth Areas Alliance Parliamentary Delegation visit to be held in Canberra between November 25-27 at an approximate cost of $1960.e w

■

■

■ ■ YEA. Yea Bakery. 44 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Yea Newsagency. 74

High St.

■ ■ YEA. Yea Take-Away. 68 High St.

Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express Edition

■ ■ COLDSTREAM. Coldstream Post Office/Newsagency. The Lodge Shopping Centre. 670-672 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ CROYDON NORTH. Croydon North Newsagency. 5 Exeter Rd.

■

■ ■ ■ HEALESVILLE. BP. 66 Maroondah Hwy.

■

■ ■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Coles Express. 123 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Grand Hotel. 270 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Healesville Newsagency. 195 Maroondah Hwy.

■ KILMORE. Kilmore Bakery. 54 Sydney St.

■ KILMORE. Kilmore Newsagency. 41 Sydney St.

■ ■ KILMORE. Red Lion Hotel. 29-31 Sydney St.

■ ■ KILMORE. Royal Oak Hotel. 29-31 Sydney St.

■ KILMORE. United Service Station. 127-145 Powlett St.

■ SEYMOUR. IGA O’Keefe’s. 10/115 Anzac Ave.

■ ■ SEYMOUR. Liberty Seymour. 37-39 Emily St.

■ SEYMOUR. Seymour NewsXpress. 66 Station St.

■ SEYMOUR. Seymour South Post and Lotto. 75 Anzac Ave.

■ SEYMOUR. Prince of Wales Hotel. 48 Emily St.

■ ■ SEYMOUR. Royal Hotel. 26 Emily St.

■ SEYMOUR. Terminus Hotel. 26 Station St.

■ SEYMOUR. Top Shop. Cnr Anzac Ave and Delatite Rd.

Short, Stephen Smith, Bruce Graham Monday, October 13 Lippert, Chantelle Tuesday, October 14

Firearm, drugs

■ Broadmeadows Police arrested two men and located a firearm and drugs in Reservoir early on Wednesday morning (Oct. 1).

Police observed a white Toyota Corolla speeding along Mahoneys Rd before the vehicle was dumped on Laurie St in Reservoir just after 1am.

Officers ran after the male occupants and arrested one man before locating a firearm, believed to be thrown under the car.

A search of the vehicle also located cannabis and weapons, including machetes.

A short time later police intercepted a white Mercedes, believed to be linked, on Hickford St and arrested a man in possession of shotgun cartridges.

A 20-year-old Craigieburn man and a 19year-old Meadow Heights man were in custody and the investigation remains ongoing.

■

■

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Tobacco Station/Tatts. Shop 11, Healesville Walk.

■

■

■ ■ LAUNCHING PLACE. Launching Place General Store. 2200 Warburton Hwy.

■ ■ LAUNCHING PLACE. Home Hotel. 2170 Warburton Hwy.

■ ■ LILYDALE. Lilydale Newsagency. 237 Main St.

■

■ ■ ■ MILLGROVE. Licensed Grocery. 3043 Warburton Hwy.

■

■ ■ ■ MOUNT EVELYN. Mount Evelyn Newsagency. 1A Wray Cres.

■ ■ RINGWOOD. Burnt Bridge Newsagency. 434 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ SEVILLE. Wooworths Seville. 568 Warburton Hwy.

■ ■ WANDIN. Wandin Newsagency. 18/2 Union Rd.

■

■ ■ ■ WARBURTON. Bakery. 3415 Warburton Hwy.

■ ■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook General Store. 36 Main Rd.

■ ■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook Hotel. 15 Main Rd.

■ TRAWOOL. Trawool Estate/ Hotel. 8150 Goulburn Valley Hwy.

■ WALLAN. United Service Station. 11-14 High St.

■

■ WALLAN. Wallan News and Lotto. Shop 6, 55 High St.

■ WALLAN EAST. New Rattlers Inn. Station St.

■ WANDONG. Caltex Star Mart. 3272 Epping-Kilmore Rd.

■ WANDONG. Dundee’s Fish and Cips. 3272 Epping-Kilmore Rd.

■ WANDONG. IGA Supermarket. 3272 Epping-Kilmore Rd.

■ WANDONG. Wandong Post News and Tatts. 3272 EppingKilmore Rd.

■

■ ■ ■ ■ WARRANDYTE. Grand Hotel.

140 Yarra St.

■ ■ WARRANDYTE. Quinton’s Supa IGA Supermarket. 1/402 Warrandyte Rd.

■ WANDONG. Kemp’s Wandong Bakery. 372 EppingKilmore Rd.

■ WANDONG. Magpie and Stump Hotel. 3313 EppingKilmore Rd.

Bennett, Travis William Thursday, October 16 Baker, Nigel Binks-Brown, Nick Bond, Jason Borham, Andrew William Burns, Mitchell Scott Deakin, Shania D'silva, Kirk Finn, Luke Grant, Travis Grantham, Benjamin Hammond, Anthony James Hannah, Lisa Hayes, Terry Hore, Andrew William Iocco, Oscar Ismail, Deniz Janusauskas, Perry Kelly, Isabella Kirkham, Jayden Macpherson, Kaleb John Mccabe-Jackson, Daniel Mclaren, Shane Graham Mclean, Luke Mcleish, Peter Kenneth Merkel, Scott Andrew Nahidi, Seyed Hamid Nesbitt, Anthony Newton, Sean Jeffrey Nodzio, Jai Clinton Orchard, Tristian Otoole, Nick Pejkovic, Braith Pereira, Luke Phillips, Craig Anthony Quillinan, Jeffrey Paul Rowbottom, Tahlia Sanderson, Mitchell Sandhu, Charanjeet Singh Shorten, Zachary Smith, Adrian Sparkes, Matthew Luke Speechley, Stewart Francis Stefuly, Ricky Emrick Suttie, Adam Thomas Trimmer, Taylor Whyte, Paul Robert Williams, Charles Wood, Luke Matthew Zinghini, Frank

Tough on rubbish

■ Whittlesea Councillors voted unanimously to advocate to the State Government for law reform to increase the penalty units applicable to illegal rubbish dumping offences.

The Councillors want to see Body Corporate infringement penalties increased five times from 50 penalty units to 250 penalty units.

Natural person penalties should be Increased from 10 penalty units to 50 penalty units, the Councillors argue.

The Chief Executive Officer and the Mayor were authorised to draft, jointly sign and send a formal letter, on behalf of Council , to the Minister for Environment, the Minister for Local Government, the Attorney General of Victoria, and the local members of State Parliament advocating for the above legislative reforms.

● ● ●

● The Local Paper has localised editions in all suburbs across Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula, and selected Victorian country areas. Digital issues are published weekly, February-December. Print issues are published fortnightly.

Local Briefs

Forums by Shire

■ Strathbogie Council has held a number of forums over the past two months, with focus on three subjects:

■ Agriculture and Viniculture

■ Manufacturing

■ Tourism, Retail and Healthcare

“These bought together Councillors and local businesses to talk through current opportunities and challenges, and to strengthen those important connections,” said Mayor Cr Claire Ewart-Kennedy

“These sessions were a fantastic opportunity to bring our business leaders together, share ideas, and explore practical solutions for building a more sustainable and resilient local economy.”

Planning change

■ Murrindindi Shire Council has has now completed the exhibition process for Planning Scheme Amendment C73 as authorised by Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny.

“The exhibition period has closed, and six submissions have been received. Council is required to consider all submissions and resolve on the next step in the amendment process,” the latest meeting of the Council was told.

On the motion of Crs Sandice McAulay and Sue Carpenter, Councillors resolved to adoipt the amendmentas exhibited, with minor edits.

The adopted amendment will be submitted to the Minister.

The recommendations of the Planning Scheme Review Report 2023 and the Housing and Settlement Strategy 2022 will be reviewed prior to their implementation via a subsequent planning scheme amendment.

Stormwater Plan

■ The Stormwater Plan Community Reference Panel Meeting held last month at the Yarra Ranges Council Civic Centre was attended by Cr Heenan, Cr Marriott, Cr Mazzarella and Cr Mcilwain

Baby welcomed

■ The City of Whittlesea’s Cr Michael Labrador has been congratulated by Mayor Cr Martin Taylor about the latest addition to the Labrador family.

“I would like to take the opportunity to congratulate our colleague Cr Labrador and his wife on the recent safe arrival of their new baby. We look forward to welcoming Cr Labrador back to the chamber very soon,” Cr Taylor said.

Tablelands event

■ Cr Claire Ewart-Kennedy, Strathbogie Mayor, attended the officiall opening the Tablelands Community Garden Perpetual Calendar Launch

“This fantastic project was supported by Strathbogie Shire Council through the Circular Economy Councils Organics Fund, delivered by Sustainability Victoria,” Cr EwartKennedy said.

“It was also a chance to see the newly completed shelter shed veranda at the Tablelands Community Centre in Ruffy a project proudly funded through Council’s Pitch Your Project initiative.”

RUOK film night

■ Cr Sue Carpenter told the latest Murrindindi Council meeting that she attended the RUOK community film night at the Yea Shire Hal.

“ A great crowd of people came to the event and watched the Australian movie, Runt. Thank you to Yea Rotary for cooking sausages and to the Council engagement team for organising RUOK events around the shire.

“Another event that I went to at the Yea Shire Hall, was to see best seller children’s author Adrian Beck share his passion for literature, learning and laughter with kids from the three local primary schools.

“This was organised by Yea Library and sponsored by The Friends of Yea Library.

“It is great to see the contribution that volunteers of FOYL do in our community and one of the many ways in which our libraries are serving and engaging with the community beyond the library space itself. The kids loved it,” Cr Carpenter said.

■ City of Whittlesea acting Chief Executive Officer Debbie Wood has side-stepped a request by Mernda resident Gaurav Surati for the Council to consider holding free clean days over weekends for residents to dispose of rubbish similar to what Hume Council has done.

“Currently Council delivers a range of free and low-cost waste services,” Ms Wood told the latest municipal meeting.

“This includes two free at home hard waste collections, unlimited free at home bundled branch collections, four free green waste vouchers, four free timber waste vouchers, two free brick and rubble vouchers and a significantly discounted tip voucher.

“A range of free waste pop-up events focusing on e-waste, cardboard and polystyrene are held throughout the year.

“We also encourage residents to go to our website and look at the A-Z recycling guide to find easy and affordable solutions for waste and recycling.

“Council continually reviews its services, including hard waste, to ensure what we are offering meets community need,” Ms Wood told the meeting.

● ● ● ● This edition covers Mansfield, Mitchell, Murrindindi, Nillumbik (rural), Starthbogie (part), Whittlesea (rural) and Yarra Ranges.

Let’s Build Back Better Call for free clean-up days

POLICY CHANGE

■ Murrindindi Shire Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher was invited to participate in a Municipal Association of Victoria delegation to Canberra to represent the advocacy agenda of Victorian Councils

“I proudly shared Murrindindi’s experience of the need to build back better, more resilient assets in the face of more regular, more intense climate-related emergencies,” Cr Gallagher told the latest municipal meeting.

“It was pleasing that federal Ministers and parliamentarians from across the political divide heeded the message and acknowledged the waste of continually rebuilding like-for-like assets after successive flood, storm, or fire events.

“We eagerly await the policy shift,” Cr Gallagher said.

Outcomes for logging transition

■ Murrindindi Shire

CEO Livia Bonazzi says that a briefing and snapshot presented by Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action shows positive progress on Native Logging Transition Outcomes

“Eleven businesses and community groups [have been] supported with over $5.4 million in funding, and 12 former timber workers successfully re-employed,” Ms Bonazzi told Murrindindi Shire Councillors.

“Nearly half of the investment has gone into manufacturing, agribusiness, and automotive sectors.

★

ms Bonazzi also toild the Council meeting about the Discover Dindi Trail Launches.

“We’ve launched new trails on the online tourism platform Discover Dindi, including the Pub and Tipple Trail, Waterfalls, and DogFriendly options.

“More trails are in production, with filming underway. You can follow Discover Dindi on social media to explore and share. Soon we will launch a Spring Promotion campaign to amplify our new trails through partnerships with influencers, features in One Hour Out, and a spread in the MurrindindiGuide.A successful collaboration between our visitor centres and local creatives, this event deepened connections with the arts and creative industries.”

Thomastown Walk

■ The Walking Thomastown event has been described by City of Whittlesea Mayor Cr Martin Taylor as successful.

“The night was filled with glowing neon lights, art installations, live performances and community spirit, as familiar streets and landmarks were transformed into a magical celebration of culture and creativity,” Cr Taylor told the latest Council meeting.

“Community feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Thank you to all those who attended and well done to all the teams involved in bringing it to life,” Cr Taylor said.

Taungurung meeting

■ The Taungurung Local Government Forum was co-hosted by Campaspe Shire Council and the Taungurung Land and Waters Council in Toolleen

“This was the fourth Taungurung Local Government forum and remains the primary platform for engagement and partnership between Local Government and the Taungurung people, bringing together all 15 councils across Taungurung Country,” said Strathbogie Mayor Cr Claire EwartKennedy.

“It was a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with fellow Councillors, Mayors and CEOs from participating councils, as well as key representatives to progress the priorities,” Cr Ewart-Kennedy said.

Women’s Health

■ Women’s Health Week was celebrated last month at the City of Whittlesea.

“This year’s theme, ‘say yes to you’, highlighted the importance of self-care while recognising that when women thrive, the whole community benefits,” Councillors were told.

“Council is proud to support women’s health and inclusion including initiatives to increase women and girls’ participation and leadership in sport.

“By creating more opportunities and fostering inclusive environments, Women’s Health Week is a reminder to put health first and get involved in activities and supports that strengthen the entire community.”

Fire season

■ Murrindindi Council is kicking off free green waste disposal at local resource recovery centres throughout October and November, according to Cr Anita Carr.

Cr Carr described it as “perfect timing” as the community braces for what is predicted to be an intense and early fire season.

“Officers will be beginning there pre fire season inspections in coming weeks/months so again this is a great time to get your properties fire ready.

“The CFA urges everyone to prepare now: clean up your property, create a fire plan, and pack a ready-to-go emergency tub with essentials like important documents, water, torch, radio, batteries, pet food and phone chargers,” Cr Carr said.

Educators Day

■ Early Childhood Educators Day 2025 was held last month in the City of Whittlesea

“The day celebrates the vital role early childhood professionals play in supporting children’s learning, growth and wellbeing,” saidCr Martin Taylor, Mayor.

“Council extends its sincere gratitude to all early childhood educators across the municipality for their professionalism, care, commitment and positive impact on families and the community.”

Crime in W’sea

■ Epping resident Nick Brain quizzed Whittlesea Councillors on what steps the Council is considering to take, or is taking, to help play its part in preventing the occurrence of crime in the community.

Acting Chief Executive Officer, Debbie Wood, said: “Thank you for your question. Council works closely with Victoria Police and other agencies to support community safety. We are involved in community safety networks and partnerships; supporting programs and events that promote social connection, participation, skill-building and positive relationships; and we advocate for community safety initiatives.”

Bonazzi, Murrindindi

Debbie Wood, Acting CEO

Damien Gallagher, Murrindindi Mayor

Out and About

Sitting days

■ Local Parliamentarians asre due to return to Spring St next week for three sitting days: Tuesday-Thursday, October 14-16. There were three sitting days in September (9-11). There are two weeks of sittings scheld in each of October and November, and one week in December (2-4).

Vote for Mayor

■ The Mayoral Election for Yarra Ranges Shire is due to take place on Tuesday, November 11.

The next meeting of the Council is scheduled to take place on tuesday next week (Oct. 14).

On the radio

■ Strathbogie Council mayor Cr Claire Ewart-Kennedy last month joined ABC Shepparton Radio for a live broadcast from Nagambie, organised in partnership with Go Nagambie and Strathbogie Shire Council

“The breakfast program focused on ‘Keeping on Track – Supporting Agricultural Communities in Tough Times’,” Cr Ewart-Kennedy said.

“I shared my personal experience as a farmer and spoke about the impacts of the October 2022 floods and recent drought conditions on our community,” Cr EwartKennedy told rthe latest Strathbogie Council meeting.

Medal to Council

■ Julie Aldous last month presented Mansfield Shire Councillors with the Medal of the Order of Timor-Leste.

The medal presentation took place at the September 16 meeting of Council.

Muddy Creek Massages

■ Application is being made to Murrindindi Shire Council for a sign to be displayed at 7 The Semi-Circle, Yea, to advertise ‘Muddy Creek Massages’.

Therapists share the dwelling to provide allied health through counselling, massage therapy, and FMS therapy.

The application is to use a sign frame that was previously used for the previous allied health business in the location.

Watson St closed

■ A section of Watson St, Wallan, was to be temporarily closed this week to repair a manhole cover and the surrounding area.

“The closure is necessary to allow concrete and asphalt repair works to take place, ensuring the road remains safe and durable for residents, businesses, and visitors,” said a mitchell Shire Council representative.

The section of Watson St between Stanley St and Wellington St was to be closed for the essential maintenance works

Detours were to be in place for through traffic via Raglan St, Stanley St, Queen St and Wellington St.

Access to properties within the closure area werre to be be maintained but minor delays are expected

Works werescheduled to occur on Monday and Tuesday (Oct. 6-7). Works were to occur during the day with the road closure to remain overnight to allow the concrete repairs to cure. Minor delays were expected.

Tender awards

■ Mansfield Council has awarded a lump sum contract for the Reconstruction and Reseal Preparation Program to Central Vic Stabilising in the amount of $ 340,347.38 (excluding GST).

mThe Council has approved a 10 per cent construction contingency amount of $34,034.74 (ex. GST).

The Council also considered a tender for the Mansfield Heritage Museum.

The report to Councilors contained confidential information pursuant to the provisions of the Local Government Act whereby Council business information, being information that would prejudice the Council's position in commercial negotiations if prematurely released, was kept confidential.

Arts events planned for Yea

■ Two arts events are planned for Yea on Saturday, October 18.

Yea Arts Inc. will present an international hit performance and a day-long workshop with leading curator Naomi Cass

Social networking will take place from 6pm at the Country Cluib Hotel , followed by a performance of Niusiaat the Yea Butter Factory.

Niusia has had critically acclaimed and award-winning premiere seasons at Melbourne Fringe Festival and La Mama Theatre, and has just returned from this year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe

Through Niusia, writer, opera singer and multidisciplinary artist Beth Paterson weaves memories, handed-down stories and interviews in an attempt to reconcile her own mixed cultural inheritance and comprehend her grandmother’s complex legacy.

It examines the precarity of identity, and the haphazard cultural legacy second, third, and fourth generation immigrants are handed.

Throughout the work, Beth asks, “what does remembrance look like when all I remember is the space where questions should go?”

“Beth Paterson has created a most entertaining, clever, educative, hilarious, and unique piece of theatre. A one-woman show is a huge undertaking, especially from a such young actor/writer,” says Cynthia Lim of Yea Arts Inc

“She delivered a tour de force. She also sings with purity and her voice reverberated around the theatre and into our viscera.”

Tickets are available from: https:// yeaartsinc.org/events

The RAV in Residence: Building Professional Materials workshop will taker place from 10am4pm on Saturday, October 18, at the Yea Wetlands Discovery Centre

The event is a partnership between Regional Arts Victoria with Yea Arts Inc. and Murrindindi Shire Council.

Visual artists and crafters of all experience levels are welcome to participate in this free, day-long workshop.

Led by Naomi Cass, one of Australia’ s foremost curators and gallery directors, RAV in Residence: Building Professional Materials will allow visual artists to learn about the gallery landscape.

Joining Cass will be two key people from Regional Arts Victoria:

■ Jo Porter, Chief Executive Officer and ■ Kate Gerritsen, Director, Communications and Engagement.

“Developing networks to further a creative career is the key to exhibiting and other opportunities such as lifelong peer learning and career sustainability,” said a Yea Arts representative.

“Attendees will come away with ideas for networking, presenting their CV and articulating creative intentions to gallery directors and others.”

https://www.rav.net.au/events/rav-in-residence-building-professional-materials/

Nillumbik sets priorities

■ Nillumbik Council has formally endorsed its key advocacy priorities.

They focus on delivering significant infrastructure upgrades, improvements to community sporting facilities, and changes to key legislation. Key advocacy priorities include:

■ Upgrading the Greensborough Bypass / Diamond Creek Rd roundabout

■ Installing a pedestrian crossing over the Hurstbridge train line at Coolabah Reserve, Eltham North

■ Undertaking a comprehensive bus service review, including proposed extensions into rural areas and a new route connecting Diamond Creek and Mernda train stations

■ Ensuring critical improvements are included in the Yan Yean Rd upgrade, such as: sealing of Eisemans, DeFredericks and Hacketts Rds in Yarrambat

■ Installation of virtual fencing to protect local wildlife

■ Preservation of six significant River Red Gums near the Bridge Inn Rd intersection

■ Extending the Plenty River Trai l in Greensborough to connect with the Diamond Creek Trail in Eltham North

A further 23 electorate-based projects have been identified, many involving upgrades to local sporting facilities. Council will collaborate with local MPs to explore funding.

Regional Round-Up

Lauries Field

■ The City of Whittlesea is thanking the community for its strong participation in the onsultation on the Lauries Field draft master plan.

The Council is now reviewing all feedback and considering updates to the draft master plan.

“Once a revised version is ready, the community will have another opportunity to share their thoughts before the final plan is presented to Council for endorsement,” said a Council representative.

“Council is pleased that so many people care deeply about their local park and took the time to share their thoughts on the draft master plan.

“The six-week consultation period included community pop-up sessions, an information session, email submissions, and an online survey.

“During the consultation, Council received a wide range of ideas and suggestions.

Key themes that emerged include:

■ Support for the lake to remain in its current form rather than being converted into an ephemeral wetland.

■ Strong support for playground renewal and maintaining the natural aesthetic of the site.

“A master plan is a long-term planning document, and the delivery of any initiatives in the endorsed plan will depend on future funding.”

At Goughs Bay

■ Several questions about Goughs Bay were posed by Richard Heath at last month’s Mansfield Council meeting.

“The land zoning in Goughs Bay opposite properties 9,10,11,12 and 13 Lake Valley Drive between the road and the lake is zoned Public Park and Recreation Zone. Does the CEO or Council have plans to rezone this area in any way to stop construction of any type?

Response: “There are currently no plans to rezone the land opposite 9 to 13 Lake Valley Drive, Goughs Bay.”

Question 2: “In the Council Report related to the Goughs Bay Playground, why has it not been noted for Councillor consideration that an offer was made to erect a playground fence for free by a local resident around the community’s chosen spot?

Response: “The report lists a range of factors that were taken into consideration for the final site location.

“The offer of the fence at the initial site on Lake Valley Drive was welcomed by Council officers. However, it preceded the final site selection and did not address the other concerns raised by community members as discussed at the site walk on May 31.”

Garage permit bid

■ Murrindindi Shire Council has received a planning permit application for a garage to be erected at 24 Dickens St, Narbethong.

Process failed

■ Mansfield Council did not follow its normal consultation process over a playground development at Goughs Bay, the latest shire meeting has been told.

Resident Donna Heath said: “The CEO acknowledged that the community consultation process did not follow Council’s standard practice. Did the following engagement processes take place as a result of this initial engagement not following process?”

A Council official responded: “Council’s community engagement policy and processes outline the importance of transparent community consultation.

“We ask for feedback from the community, listen to concerns and act in the best interests of our community.

“We take community feedback into account when weighing up the many factors that go into making a decision.

“In this case, Council officers did not send direct letters to those who lived near the playground, which would be what Council would consider standard process.

“At the same time, it became evident that there was division in the community around where the playground should be located.

“For these reasons, Council took a lead role in facilitating the community consultation process to better understand the issues and concerns being raised by community members,” the latest Mansfield Shire Council meeting was told.

● ● Beth Paterson

● ● Naomi Cass

FREE WITH

Observer Melbourne

Latest News

RSL suspended

■ RSL Victoria has suspended the Newport sub-branch for 12 months over concerns about its finances and a redevelopment at its Market St site.

Fuel prices listed

■ The State Government has commended fuel retailers across Victoria for their compliance with mandatory fuel price reporting regulations now in effect.

Almost 1300 retailers are now onboard across the state and ready to report their fuel prices.

The retailers are now required to report their fuel prices through a new fuel finder feature soon available on the Service Victoria app that will help motorists make informed decisions about when and where they fill up their tank.

2 women dead

■ Two women have been found deceased in Nelse, in Victorian alpine country.

Emergency services were first called following reports two bodies had been found at Lendenfeld Point on Friday (Oct. 3) about 12.50pm.

Two hikers came across the scene near Cleve Cole Hut and called Triple Zero (000). Uniform officers, along with the Search and Rescue Squad and Air Wing, responded and made their way to the isolated scene.

It appears the pair, believed aged in their 20s or 30s, may have been in the area to hike and camp.

The deaths appear non-suspicious.

Fatal collision

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a head-on collision that occurred in Kaarimba on Friday (Oct. 3).

It is believed a Toyota Corolla collided head-on with a Renault SUV on BarmahShepparton Rd just after 4.30pm.

The driver and sole occupant of the Renault, a 45-year-old Nathalia woman, died at the scene.

The driver and sole occupant of the Toyota, a 30-year-old Nathalia man was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries.

Wodonga head-on

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating the circumstances following a fatal head-on collision in Wodonga

It is believed a stolen Nissan X Trail collided head-on with a utility on the Hume Freeway about 12.50am Friday (Oct. 3).

The driver of the Nissan, an 18-year-old Corryong woman, was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Her passenger, a 16-year-old girl from the Wodonga area, died at the scene.

The driver of the ute, a 23-year-old NSW man, was taken to hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries.

Investigators allege the Nissan was stolen from a Wodonga West address on September 30.

Third man charged

■ North West Metro Regional Crime Squad detectives have charged a third man following an alleged aggravated burglary in East Melbourne on September 4.

Detectives from Taskforce Hawk also assisted with the charges, after information about the alleged offending was located during a separate unrelated investigation into criminality linked to the construction industry. This follows the arrest of three men and a woman last month after a spate of offending across various Melbourne suburbs.

SWENSON SIGNS FOR DIAMOND MUSICAL

■ The cast of the smash-hit Broadway musical ABeautifulNoise:TheNeilDiamondMusical has been unveiled ahead of its Australian premiere in Melbourne in 2026.

Broadway star Will Swenson will reprise the lead role, which celebrates the legendary life and music of Neil Diamond

Swenson was the first person to play Diamond on Broadway in 2022, receiving critical and audience acclaim, and will bring his award-winning performance to Australia for the first time.

He has previously earned a Tony Award nomination for his performance in Hair, plus a Drama League nomination for Priscilla:Queen of the Desert, and his extensive credits also include roles in LesMisérables,RockofAges and LittleMissSunshine

Melbourne will be the first city outside the United States to host the musical.

The musical will make its Australian premiere at the Princess Theatre in August 2026 and is set to attract visitors from across the country to experience classics like Sweet Caroline, ForeverinBlueJeansand Cracklin’ Rosie

American music icon Diamond, who has sold 120 million albums worldwide, worked in collaboration to create the theatre show. He performed seven concert tours across Australia

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Will Swenson

1870: Yea takes on Alexandra at cricket

■ One of the first press mentions of cricket in Yea can be found in the Alexandra Times newspaper of January 21, 1869.

The report from ‘our own correspondent, 150 years ago, reads:

The report, from ‘our own correspondent’, 147 years ago, reads: “There was a cricket match played here on Saturday inst, between eleven of the Murrundindi, and eleven of the Yea Club(s).

“Murrundindi was in a fair way of winning the match, but as there was barely time to play the game out, it was decided by the first innings, and in favor tf the Yeaites, Murrindindi scoring 43, and Yea, 58 runs.

“As the scorang sheet has been accidentally mislaid the details cannot be given. Some of the play was remarkably good, particularly the batting on the Murrindindi side of the Messrs Smith Bros., and, the bowling of Mr D. McLeish

“On the Yea side, the batting of Messrs. G. Grant and C. Forbes deserves great praise, as well as the bowling of G. Grant, and W. Scott, not forgettibg Tommy Blunn's fielding.”

Later in the same year (September 17), the Alexandra Times noted: “The memberas of the Alexandra Cricket Club are going to work in a thoroughly earnest manner, and a first-class team hass now been fairly organised.

“A new set of bats and wickets have been procured, and our club will shortly be in a position to accept a challenge from Godfrey's Creek, Yea, or Mansfield

“At a meeting of the members, held on last Friday evening, Mr M. Raphael was unanimously elected President, Mr Anderson Captain, and Mr C. James Secretary.

“The President has kindly presented the Club with a handsome set of books. A grand opening scratch match is to be played to morrow evening at the rear of Mr Coster's residence.”

That summer brought a contest between Yea and Alexandra:

“The cricket match between the Yea and Alexandra elevens comesoff on 'I'uesdav next on the ground below the township, on the . U.T. Flat,” said the February 11, 1870 issue.

“Thisrmatch will be an interesting one, and every person who can sparo time will visit the ground on the occasion.”

After the match, the Alexandra Times reported it, thus:

“This match was played on Tuesday last under a` boiling sun. In. consequence of the excessive heat very few. persons visited the ground.

“The Alexandra team won the toss for the first innings, and sent their opponents. to the wickets.

“The first five wickets having gone down for 18 runs, the game was considered, all up, but Blunn's batting soon raised the drooping spirits of his party, and the innings closed for the very fair score of 64.

“The manner in which Blunn handled the willow deserves special mention; he played throughout with skill and judgment, and the stand that lie made against the real good bowling opposed to him, proves him. to be a fine batsman..

“The Alexandra Eleven were quite confident of success from the first, and the good stand made by Captain Anderson increased their confidence.

“The bowling of the two Messrs Grants and the good fielding soon brought them to grief, having: scored only 50.

“At this period of the game all faith in the Alexandra team.was gone, and. two to one was the batting against them.

“The two Elevens adjourned to O'Donnell's Miners' Exchange Hotel, whore a lunch was provided by the Alexandrans

“After lunch Grant's Eleven (Yea) went to the wickets for the second time,, and having scored only 58 the Alexandra team were again jubilant, but when the captain went out for a duck egg, and four of the best batsmen for very small scores, then it was considered all over with the Alexandrans, and even their best friends abused them.

“The steady manner in which Messrs Scott and Norman Whitelaw played deserves special mention,, and to them belongs the honor of having won the day for Alexandra

“The excitement at this part of the game was intense, and as each run was made, the applause of the spectators encourged the players to further deeds of daring till at last a tie was called, after which Mr N. Whitelaw made a fine hit to leg for three, thus winning the match by two runs and two wickets to fall.

“The two last batsmen (Scott and N. Whitelaw) kept possession of the wickets for a considerable time, and completely puzzled the captain of the opposing team. (Mr G. Grant) who several times changed his tactics, but all to no purpose, as both players carried their bats out amidst the cheers of the surrounding spectators.

“The long-stopping of C. Freeman for Alexandra is worthy of special mention, as is also the wicket keeping of R. Barton for the opposing side, both deserving credit.

“Both Elevens played well, and until the next game comes off, which is fixed for the beginning of April, it is difficult to say which is the better. of them.

“It will be seen the totals, for two. innings are Alexandra Eleven, .125; Grant's Eleven, 122, the former thus winning -by-three runs, leaving two

wickets to fall. The, game throughout was characterised by most perfect good humour on the part of all engaged in the mimic war, and the only. real drawback to the day's sport was the intense heat that prevailed.

“A.slight mishap, and, fortunately the only one, occurred during the early portion of the day through, which Mr. T. Grant received a wound in the forehead in consequence of the ball striking him in that place.

“We may mention that Mr G. Grant was rather disappointed in consequence of the whole of his team not having come to Alexandra, he being short of two players and an umpire.

“This little difficulty was, however, bridged over on the ground by choosing Messrs G. Freeman and R. Barton to play and Mr J. Levy to act as umpire, the lattergentleman forming one of the Alexandra Eleven, had a substitute provided for him whilst discharging the duties devolving upon him by his acceptance of office.

“Mr. J. Branch acted as umpire for the Alexandra team, Mr M. Raphael as scorer for. the same side, and Mr T. Monahan filled a similar post for the opposing side.

“At the conclusion of the match three cheers were given for both teams in a manner that "made the welkin ring”.

“A quadrille party took place in the evening at O'Donnell's Miners' Exchange Hotel, which was very numerously attended, the youth and beauty of Alexandra mustering in great force on the occasion.

“Dancing was kept up with great spirit till far into the small hours, when the company separated highly pleased with the evening's enjoyment.”

The February 25, 1870, issue of the Times talked of a return match in Yea: “Since the late cricket match at Alexandra the Yea cricketers seem to be quite put on their mettle, and arrangements have already commenced in preparation for the return match.

“A splendid. piece of ground can be obtained on the banks of the Muddy Creek, at the back of the

Local poet describes 1870 game

■ Alexandra poet ‘AZ’ described the cricket match against Yea on February 1870 in this way in the Alexandra Times newspaper:

The cricket match is over: . The hurly-burly's done; The game was played right gallantly

Beneath a burning sun. For both sides did their level best,, And Alexandra won.

The game was well contested The cricketers of Yea Had ten to one. and other odds,. 'Gainst Alexandra's play. The Alexandrans scored the best, And.won the well fought day.

racecourse, upon which to play the return match, which it is expected will take place about the 18th April, Easter Monday.”

Twelve months later (Feb. 10, 1871), the Times reported: “A cricket match -Yea and Higinbothbam v. Alexandra - will take place on the Alexandra ground on Wednesday. the 23rd instant,

“We understand that a match, also to be played at Alexandra, will shortly take place between Mansfield and Alexandra against Wangaratta ”

George S.M. Grant, Captain of the Higinbotham Cricket Club, later wrote a letter to the Times editor: “As it is generally believed that the Eleven who played against Alexandra yesterday were a united team, chosen from the Yea and Higinbotham cricket clubs, I beg to state on behalf of the Higinbotham C. C., that the Yea Cricket Club (if there is such a body) was not recognized in the match.

“It was solely a match between the cricket clubs of Alexandra and Higinbotham.” The contemporary press reports and other early records use the township spelling with one ‘g’.

According to the Placenames Australia newsletter (June 2006): “Early in 1866 rich reefs were discovered at what was originally called New Chum, up the Murrundindi River about10 miles from Yea, and there was a rush prospected by McLeish and party in 1868.

“In 1869 the mining village, where there was a club and a theatre, changed its name to Higginbotham, after a reefer named George Higginbotham

“There was a single reference to the Higginbotham Prospecting and Gold Mining Company, of which John Wishart Cairns was a director, but there was no mention of the village.

Nigel Sinnott notes there was another New Chum at Healesville West.

“The mine lay between two ridges that carried Grants Track and Beatsons Track, and there was also Higginbotham Track nearby.

“Grant (1822-85) was the radi-

For they have oft' times conquered,. And have been "licked" before. Three cheers for Alexandra, Three cheers, end one cheer more.. May many a future triumph boys: For you be yet in store.

The cricketers of Yea ; three cheers; The bat you:deftly wield; You played the game right well throughout: Tho’forced at last to yield. Revenge you'll have some other day Upon the tented field.

member of Parliament after whom Grant St , Alexandra, was named.”

The February 25, 1871, issue of the Alexandra Times reported on the Higinbotham v Alexandra cricket match:

“This match was played on the Alexandra cricket ground on Wednesday last.

“The game was to have commenced at 10 o'clock, but, owing to the unavoidablo absence of the gentleman who was to have occupied the position of umpire, it was fully 11 o'clock before "play"was called.

“The toss was won by the captain of the; Higinbotham team, Mr G. Grant, who sent the Alexandra men to the wickets.

“The bowling of the Messrs. Grant and Mr McLeish was too good to score off, and the first lot of wickets were knocked down for 38 runs.

“It was fully expected by both sides that this small score would be passed by the Hginbotham team; such however was not the case.

“Messrs Parker and E. Whitelaw bowling better than ever they did before succeeded in ousting their opponents with only 32 runs.

“After refreshment the Alexandra team again went to the wickets, adding 54 to their previous score. In their second innings the Higinbotham men were even less fortunate than in their first, only scoring 27, thus leaving the Alexandra team victorious by a majority of 33 runs.

“The particularly good long stopping on both sides is worthy of mention, as may be gathered by the few byes obtained.”

● ● 19th century cricket icon Dr William Gilbert Grace (1848-1915) at the crease

Tomas Clifford Got Stood Up

■ Rarely does an outstanding young talent such as Tomas Clifford emerge onto our stage. It was a delight to experience this fresh, multi-talented performer in his original musical-comedy cabaret TomasClifford GotStoodUpat the Melbourne Fringe Festival

He tells his story of the raw feelings of a child growing up as a young gay boy, teenage crushes, unrequited loves and finding hope after being stood up as an adult. Tomas directed this show, wrote the lyrics and composed and arranged the score. His pithy, poignant and touching words are delivered with humour in verse in a combination of lyrics and storytelling. He is backed by six polished instrumentalists and a strong chorus of three vocalists.

Dressed white shirt and black trousers set off by suggestions of red, he nimbly dances in black high-heeled, platform shoes. He projects an energy in his movements on stage creating the perfect fit to drive the changing moods of his story.

Tomas has a beautiful and clear tone of voice whether in song or spoken. This attribute, in conjunction with a pervasive stage presence, sees him engage with his audience and fellow musicians with warmth and a great sense of fun.

Packed onto a small stage the tempo and colour of this ensemble’s electric performance is heightened by intense flashes of bright lighting and dynamic techno sound.

One hour passed too quickly. We’re left with a sense that this show could be developed into a larger musical. Whatever happens, I am certain that the strength and versatility of Tomas’s talents will propel him on to a great theatrical future. He is one to watch.

Review by Sherryn Danaher

MELANCHOLIPEDIA Confidential

Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

■ Being melancholy in this day and age is often seen as a negative emotional and mental state and to be avoided at all costs.

However, across the ages this wasn't always so. In his often hilarious yet also somehow disturbing one-man show Melancholipedia, which played at Trainscendence in Collingwood, Robbie O'Brien sought to remind us of this and restore respect for melancholia.

An aspiring wannabe TED talk presenter/ podcast host, O'Brien gave a slideshow presentation detailing the history of melancholia and how, in the past, revered philosophers and artists spoke highly of it.

However, digression after digression meant the worldview of the presenter was sliced apart with surgical precision, leaving his soul tormented and in tatters.

Created by O'Brien himself, the monologue was evidence of a sharp mind at work. Full of intellectual wit and searing observations, the writing was funny and poignant.

The ideas flew thick and fast but never overshadowed the undercurrents of despair and desperation that were the script's emotional bedrock.

The writing was reminiscent of Chekov in its “laughter through tears” mood and intensity, where the stories told were indeed bittersweet, having both tragic and comic elements

Aided by dramaturg Morgan Rose and the evocative music of James O’Brien, the script’s mood and intensity was matched by Robbie’s performance where he seemed, at times, to be the very embodiment of melancholia.

One minute, brash and full of confidence, he made sweeping pronouncements on the future of humanity. Then, when the penny dropped as to the diabolic consequences of said pronouncements, he was raw and pitifully exposed.

As grand in scope as it was, though, the show also felt deeply personal. There was always a haunting feeling that O’Brien might have been playing a character, or maybe playing O’Brien, or maybe just being himself, whatever that means.

A difficult show to describe and categorise, Melancholipediawas intriguing and O’Brien definitely a talent to keep an eye on.

Review by Peter Murphy

One of the

shows on Broadway

as 'a

even more popular with the 1978

of rock n’ roll, American teen culture, and the

Nominated for countless awards, the show features songs such as: You’retheOneThatI Want,GreasedLightnin’,HopelesslyDevotedtoYou,SummerNights, and ThereAreWorse ThingsICouldDo Performance Season: Oct 10, 11, 16, 17, 18 at 8pm; Oct 11, 12, 18 at 2pm Venue: The Round, 379 - 399 Whitehorse Rd., Nunawading. Cheryl Threadgold

The Mutineers

■ Another totally engaging performance by Monash Uni Student Theatre with their sold out season of The Mutineers, written by emerging playwright Tavisshi Dhawan who also shared Co-Director with Tiara Pires. A challenging piece of theatre meticulously handled by all cast and crew alike.

The writer explained why the title Mutineers? “It is one who speaks of rebellion, disobeys orders and particularly one who questions authority.”

And so at the prestigious Bellview Academy, the Class of 1995 are a group of students whose lives change while inside the walls of the Academy and who could readily be termed, Mutineers.

Central to the play is the journey of two scholarship students Veronica (Ronnie) Hughes a guarded young woman with a strong sense of justice played by Jada-Li Crossey who exuded talent at all times and Theodore (Ted) Lewis played by Lucas Lines , a young man adjusting to the complex social and sexual environment.

As a first year performer he showed great ability in delivering his mood changes and in particular his managing of the growing relationship with Russel Briggs played Lachlan Robertson.

The versatility of Lachlan Robertson was well to the fore, providing a strong contrast to James Finley played by Marcus Leder who commanded the stage at all times as well with his flirtations with Veronica (Ronnie) Hughes.

A noteworthy and skillfully played role was Bridget Hyde (he/she/they) as Kenneth Freeman, brother of Tammy Freeman played by Sophie Foster, who coupled with Elizabeth (Beth) Brooker played by Wynter Dallas.

An outsider to the group was the cameo role of Donald Gibson played by Dominic Hartono.

The past life of the Headmaster Mr Hallward played by Vedant Pithi a, was laid bare by teacher Mr William Pierce played by Sam Pringle who just happened to be a student with Mr Hallward as the teacher some 20 years earlier.

The set was well devised with hinged panels transforming the school room into an outdoor setting, with boxes changing position for seating and desks.

Obviously, the script demanded much resetting of the boxes which took time in maintaining continuity.

In saying that, the work was quite extraordinary and should be performed again, perhaps in mainstream community theatre. Review by Graeme McCoubrie

● ● The Melbourne Observer is published weekly, February-December, as a digital edition. Print copies, inside The Local Paper, are fortnightly.

Evening on Broadway

■ In what was a thoroughly entertaining celebration of the Broadway musical, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s An EveningonBroadwayat Hamer Hall was a resounding success.

Consisting of two halves, the first act had 10 musical theatre pieces followed by a second act consisting of nine pieces. Each half consisted of a mix of instrumental works accompanied by crowd favourites from a wide range of musicals mixed with some lesser known songs.

The list of famous composers and lyricists showcased on the evening included such luminaries as Rodgers and Hammerstein, Sondheim, Lloyd Webber and Lerner and Loewe while musicals such as LesMisérables,ThePhantomoftheOpera, West Side Story, Evita and Cats, among others, were featured.

There were three purely instrumental pieces when the orchestra itself shone; otherwise the evening saw solos and duets sung by two Australian shining lights of the genre. Those two shining lights were the magnificent Amy Manford (soprano) and Josh Piterman (tenor). Both world-class singers who have performed as principals in The PhantomoftheOperain London’s West End, they were clear evidence of the depth of talent Australia has.

In particular, Piterman , when he sang BringHimHomefrom LesMiserablesand Manford, when she sang WishingYouWere SomehowHereAgainfrom ThePhantomof theOpera, touched hearts in the appreciative audience.

Critical to the success of the evening was the work of Jessica Gethin, credited as conductor and music director. She conducted the orchestra in a masterful way on the night. In addition, she made a significant contribution to the overall success of the concert through her curation of the works performed, proving herself to have a keen eye for a Broadway song.

A definitive crowd pleaser, AnEveningon Broadway successfully demonstrated the MSO’s commitment to broaden the scope of its work and engage and delight a broader demographic of the Melbourne citizenry.

Review by Peter Murphy

Not Without Right

■ The question of who wrote the plays attributed to Shakespeare has been solved. It was Colin Cox, the author of and performer in, NotWithoutRight

Taking Shakespeare’s coat of arms as a title, Cox provides us with an entertaining overview of the Bard’s life whilst the latter is grappling with his will. Meanwhile, Will’s muse (Allesandra Manon) is willing him on separating fact from fiction and encouraging William to explain his conduct and account for some of the apocryphal stories that have arisen over time.

Cox and Manon take to the task of relating the story with gusto. This play now seems part of their DNA so familiar do they relate their lines. A quick change of hat or cloak allows Manon to move between characters pivotal in Shakespeare’s life and Cox toys with the audience with asides alluding to contemporary issues that prove the timelessness of the Bard. There is both an indepth knowledge of Shakespeare and an appreciation of dramatic versatility in this approach.

A general chronology relating to when plays appeared provides continuity but there is a universality when it comes to the lines from the plays which are interwoven throughout the performance adding colour and texture to the moment.

For those versed in Shakespeare, the ease with which Cox has done this is amusing and revealing.

It’s a way of adding comedy or fleshing out a character and insinuates just how closely the lines reflected Shakespeare’s actual life. For those unfamiliar with the plays, there is an appreciation that can be garnered from the sentiment created but also encouragement to look into Shakespeare’s life a little more.

Performing at a small bar called the Bard’s Apothecary in one of Melbourne’s laneways is an inspired choice adding to the novelty. NotWithoutRightis a delight.

Until October 19

Bards Apothecary, 7/24 Crossley St., Melbourne melbournefringe.com.au Review by David

● ● Robbie O'Brien.

Photo: Morgan Roberts

McLean

● ● Tomas Clifford

■ Babirra Music Theatre presents Greasefrom October 10-18 at The Round, Nunawading Directed by Mark Cluning, with musical direction by Vicki Quinn and choreography by Steph Clare-Cover, Greaseis set in 1959 at Rydell High School. Danny Zuko and Sandy Dumbrowski’s summer romance is put to the test when they unexpectedly reunite on the first day of school.

longest running

(made

film), Grease is described

celebration

1950s.'

● ● ● ● Grease is being staged by Babirra Music Theatre at Nunawading.

Bush Telegraph Fatal rollover

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash in Red Cliffs last wednesday morning (Sep. 24).

Officers were driving along Cocklin Avenue when they noticed a car on its side just before 3.30am. driver had died at the scene.

Exact circumstances surrounding the crash are being investigated.

Shepp. carjacking

■ Shepparton Crime Investigation Unit detectives charged a man and teenage boy following an alleged aggravated carjacking in Shepparton

It is alleged a ride-share driver was in his Nissan vehicle in Northumberland Crescent when a rear male passenger produced a knife, and an unknown male approached the vehicle about 3.20pm on Saturday, September 20.

The pair allegedly threatened the victim before a physical altercation ensued and the two offenders fled in his vehicle. The victim was not seriously injured.

Police later located the pair near the vehicle at the Seymour Railway Station about 4.30pm.

Officers arrested the pair after an alleged short foot pursuit.

A 15-year-old Shepparton boy has been charged with aggravated carjacking, commit indictable offence whilst on bail and post and boast offence.

He was expected to appear at a children’s court at a later date.

An 18-year-old Shepparton man has been charged with aggravated carjacking, commit indictable offence whilst on bail, post and boast offence and unlicensed driving.

He was remanded in custody and was to appear before the Shepparton Magistrates Court.

Birdwoodton death

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash in Birdwoodton on Saturday evenin, September 20

It is believed a motorcycle rider and his pillion passenger were riding south along McEdward St about 7.15pm. A man died at the scene.

A second man sustained life-threatening-injuries and was to be airlifted to Melbourne

The investigation remains ongoing.

Woodend crash

■ Emergency services responded to a crash in Woodend on Saturday morning, September 20.

It is believed a car was travelling on Donalds Rd when it rolled over about 12.30am.

The driver and sole occupant died at the scene. exact circumstances of the crash are being investigated.

Rallying for Mayor

■ Horsham Rural City Council officials and members of the public rallied around Mayor Ian Ross at an emotionally-charged meeting as he publicly disclosed a cancer battle, requiring him to take a leave of absence. Cr Ross announced he would step down as Mayor, with Cr Brian Klowss appointed as Acting Mayor at a special meeting on September 4. Weekly Advertiser

Gippsland works

■ The Federal and State Governments are delivering roaqd works around Lakes Entrance and Kalimna as upgrades to a key intersection along the Princes Hwy get underway. Sections of Kalimna Path will be reconstructed and surfaced, with safety barriers, pedestrian fencing and drainage.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2025

ROADS BLITZ FOR THE BUSH: GOVT

■ The State Government is promising a blitz to repair roads throughout country Victoria.

The Government sayts it is rolling out a major road maintenance blitz to rebuild, repair, and resurface roads right across Victoria – backed by what it claims is the largest singleyear investment in road maintenance in the state’s history.

Melissa Horne, Minister for Roads and Road Safety, launched the Government’s $976 million road maintenance blitz. She was in Kyneton where crews will begin fixing potholes and upgrading road surfaces.

“As part of our Better Roads Blitz, crews will begin delivering hundreds of major maintenance projects between now and mid-2026 on roads – with 70 per cent of all the funding going towards our regional roads,” said a Government representative.

“Over the next nine months, crews will complete thousands of projects on our network, ranging from road rehabilitation and resurfacing, patching potholes and maintaining bridges, installing traffic lights and signage.

“The blitz will target the state’s busiest travel and trade routes, helping to get millions of people and hundreds of thousands of tonnes of freight to and from their destination smoothly.”

Key roads across regional Victoria that will be targeted through this program of works include the Western Highway, Princes Highway East, Princes Highway West, Hume Highway and Calder Highway.

The Mornington Peninsula Freeway and the Warburton Highway will also see upgrades.

“All these roads were prioritised based on expert assessments and community feedback, ensuring that upgrades are focused where they’re most needed,” said the representative.

“As well as repairing some of our busiest roads, crews will also mow, slash and spray tens of thousands of kilometres of roadsides, inspect and repair thousands of bridges and other structures.

“They’ll also fix hundreds of sets of traffic lights and electronic signs, clean up graffiti and deliver other maintenance works as needed.

Ms Horne said: “We’re investing nearly a billion dollars to rebuild and repair the roads that Victorians depend on every single day — from the highways connecting our major centres to the local roads that keep our communities moving.”

“The last Liberal National Government cut roads maintenance funding and jobs – we’re getting on and delivering the biggest singleyear investment in road maintenance in Victoria’s history.”

Macedon MLA Mary-Anne Thomas said: “Whether it’s fixing potholes, resurfacing roads or improving safety, this blitz will deliver better and smoother journeys for drivers right across regional Victoria – keeping our communities connected.”

Gisborne move

denied by AFL

■ Gisborne Football Netball Club is canvassing its options after its application to join the Ballarat Football Netball League in 2026 was knocked back by the AFL Victoria Appeal Panel. The Bulldogs were advised on Wednesday (Sep. 24) that their bid to switch leagues had been rejected, in effect, forcing them to remain in the Bendigo League against the wishes of the club’s rank and file.

Acknowledging the outcome, the Ballarat FNL said it remained committed to having Gisborne as part of the competition and that dialogue between the League and the Bulldogs would remain open.

Moorabool News

Whiparound Surgeon axed

■ A prominent Border region breast cancer surgeon whose contract has been terminated after 27 years of service says the decision will "punish Albury-Wodonga patients".’

John Stuchbery says he was given three months' notice after he was terminated by the Albury Wodonga Health board Border Mail

Red Hot Summer

■ Paul Kelly, Missy Higgins, the Cruel Sea, the Cat Empire, Kasey Chambers and Jess Hitchcock will perform at the Warrnambool Racecourse on Saturday, January 17. About 7000 people are expected to attend.

Warrnambool Mayor Cr Ben Blain said that to be approached by the festival, spoke to the city’s growing reputation as an events destination, especially following last year’s wildly successful Triple j One Night Stand event.

Warrnambool

Weekly

Pecans take root

■ At Premier Australian Walnuts, Lemi Sherolli is planting a new legacy, one that could change the region’s agricultural landscape for generations.

Lemi made a bold move 16 years ago , replacing much of his tomato crops with walnut trees. Now, Lemi and a team of former horticultural researchers are taking on a new kind of nut: pecans. Shepparton Adviser

Melissa Horne, Roads Minister

7, 8 and 9)

Places To Go

What’s On What’s What’s

Under the radar

■ Aussies are turning their backs on the world’s busiest tourist hotspots in favour of under-the-radar gems. New research from Insure&Go shows 66 per cent of Australians over 50 plan to seek out quieter, lesser-known destinations in the next two years, citing over tourism and soaring costs as the key deterrents. From charming European villages to remote nature escapes, travellers are chasing culture, calm and better value over crowds and queues.

Top End

■ This dry season marks the long-awaited return of Gunlom, one of Kakadu National Park’s most photographed sites, now reopened after a six-year closure. It’s never been a better time for travellers to explore the Top End – where spectacular natural attractions, ancient landscapes and a packed dry season events calendar awaits.

INVERLOCH RESORT EXPANDS

■ RACV has unveiled plans for a multi-million-dollar expansion of its Inverloch Resort, featuring 36 premium rooms that will create 120 jobs during construction and 15 ongoing positions once operational, injecting an estimated $6.5 million annually into the local economy.

The development comes as regional accommodation providers struggle to meet soaring demand, with the popular Bass Coast destination regularly turning away thousands of visitors during peak periods due to capacity constraints.

"This is an investment into Inverloch and Gippsland tourism that RACV is tremendously proud to be a part of," said RACV Executive General Manager Leisure, Craig Peachey

"With regional tourism booming post-pandemic, these new premium rooms will help address a significant market gap while elevating Inverloch's status as a premium destination.

“We’re pleased that the Victorian Government shares our vision for the project, and we’re appreciative of their assistance in making this expansion possible, with RACV a successful recipient of a grant from the Victorian Government’s Regional Tourism Investment Fund.”

The resort currently operates at almost full occupancy during peak periods and is fully booked months in advance, forcing many potential visitors to seek alternatives outside the region. This expansion will enable the facility to welcome up to 20,000 additional guests annually.

“Our nine RACV Resorts across Victoria, Queensland and Tasmania have something for every traveller – from dramatic coastal scenery like you’ll find at RACV Inverloch Resort – to rich bushland or a bustling city break and we’re delighted to be able to continue to invest in our accommodation options for our RACV members and guests.”

Architectural renders showcase the striking two-level wing that will feature floor-to-ceiling windows capturing panoramic views across Andersons Inlet. The bold design by acclaimed firm GHD blends seamlessly with the coastal landscape using

● RACV has announced a multi-million-dollar expansion of its Inverloch Resort. sustainable materials and native vegetation. The expansion will specifically target three underserved market segments:

The conference and events sector, with new capacity for larger events and conferences.

■ Travellers seeking premium coastal accommodations; and

■ Family groups requiring flexible room configurations.

Located on Bunurong land just 90 minutes from Melbourne, the expanded resort will serve as a gateway to Victoria's emerging coastal experiences, including the recently established Yallock-Bullock Coastal Park and Bunurong Marine Park

The 4.5-star RACV Inverloch Resort currently hosts 55,000 visitors annually and offers diverse accommodation options, the acclaimed Radius Restaurant showcasing local produce, and conference spaces. The resort plays a pivotal role in regional tourism infrastructure and actively supports local producers, artists, and community initiatives.

The new wing expected to welcome its first guests by December 2026.

What’s

Campfire rules

■ The Conservation Regulator Victoria, CFA, Parks Victoria , and Forest Fire Management Victoria are reminding campers about the importance of knowing the rules around campfire safety to protect the environment from the dangers of an escaped campfire. Many people try to put out campfires incorrectly with soil, or not enough water to extinguish them completely. Fires that haven’t been properly extinguished can smoulder under soil for days and reignite in the right conditions.

Humpbacks

■ It’s peak season to swim with humpback whales on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. Share the waters with these majestic creatures in their natural environment with Australia's first humpback whale swimming experience. The three-hour boat expedition is run out of Mooloolaba.

Wander through many beautiful gardens across the rolling hills of Baw Baw Shire. Gardivalia Festival of Gardens" will open on Saturday and Sunday, October 25 and 26.

From Warragul, Drouin and Darnum across to Trafalgar. At Willow Grove and Hill End up to Piedmont and Icy Creek. Neerim, Jindivick and Nilma North. Many gardens to enjoy, blooming backyards, hidden green gems and floral masterpieces waiting to be explored throughout Gippsland.

Prices range from free to $10 per adult, cash required for most gardens. Visit www.gardivalia.com.au. Email info@gardivalia.com.au or contact Maree on 0403 449 179 for more detail.

Shows

■ The Basin Theatre Group: Dead Man’s Cell Phone (Sarah Ruhl) Until October12 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: John Putman. Bookings: 0494 065 006.

■ The 1812 Theatre: Speaking in Tongues (by Andrew Bovell) Until October 25 at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Dexter Bourke. Bookings: 1812theatre. com.au

■ CLOC Musical Theatre: Juliet. October 10 – 25 at the National Theatre, St Kilda. Director: Karl McNamara; Musical Director: Dan Heskett; Choreographer: Felicity Bender. Bookings: cloc.org.au

■ Babirra Music Theatre: Grease. October 10-18 at The Round, Whitehorse Rd., Nunawading. Bookings: theround.com.au/ whats-on/grease-babirra

■ Altona City Theatre: Urinetown October 10 – 18 at Altona Theatre, Civic Pde., Altona; Director: Dean Mitchelmore; Musical Director: Oscar Wilson; Choreographer: Chloe Carroll. Bookings: altonacitytheatre.com.au

■ Encore Theatre: The Revlon Girl (by Anthony Docking) October 10 – 19 at the Clayton Community Centre, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: David Krause. Bookings: encoretheatre.com.au

■ Ballarat National Theatre: God of Carnage (by Yasmina Reza) October 16 – 19 at the Ballarat Mechanics’ Institute, 117-119 Sturt St., Ballarat Central. Director: Ruby Abbott. Bookings: bnt.org.au

■ Warragul Theatre Company: The Game’s Afoot (by Ken Ludwig) October 16 – 19 at the West Gippsland Arts Centre, 1 Civic Place, Warragul. Director: Justin Stephens. Bookings: Coming soon.

■ CPP Community Theatre: Urinetown October 17 – 24 at the Rowville Performing Arts Centre, Humphreys Way, Rowville. Director: Mitchell E Roberts; Vocal Musical Director: Brodie Sainsbury-King; Orchestral Musical Director: Scott Huddleston; Choreographer: Molly Daley. Bookings: Trybooking.

■ Moonlite Theatre: Rope (by Patrick Hamilton) October 17 – 25 at Holy Trinity Anglican Church Hall, 19 Gisborne Rd., Baccus Marsh. Director: Shannon Nicholson. Bookings: trybooking.com/ DBPIV

■ Bairnsdale Production Line Theatre Co.: The Heartbreak Choir (by Aidan Fennessy) October 17 – 26 at the Forge Theatre and Arts Hunb, 80 McKean St., Bairnsdale. Director: Susan Gibson. Bookings: eastgippsland.vic.gov.au/leisure/whats-onand-buy-tickets

■ Torquay Theatre Troupe Inc: Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike (by Christopher Durang) October 23 – November 1 at Shoestring Playhouse @ The MAC, 77 Beach Rd., Torquay; Director: Zina Carman. Bookings: Trybookng.com.au

■ PEP Productions: Love, Loss and What I Wore (by Nora Ephron and Delia Ephron, based on the book by Illene Beckerman) October 24 – November 1 at The Doncaster Playhouse, 679 Doncaster Rd., Doncaster. Director: Jennifer Pacey. Trybooking.

■ LOTS Theatre (Legends of the Skies): Charles Kingsford Smith – The Man, the Myth, the Mystery, Smithy a musical flight through history. November 6 – 8 at 7.30pm, Nov 8 and 9 at 2pm at the Moorabbin Air Museum. Artistic Director: Maggie Morrison. All tickets $25, family of four $90. Bookings: .trybooking.com/DFEAG

■ Malvern Theatre Company: Perfect Wedding (by Robin Hawdon) October 24 – November 8 at Malvern Theatre, 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East. Director: Pip Le Blond. Bookings: 300 131 552, or online via our website: malverntheatre.com.au/book-tickets

Auditions

■ Actors and singers. A Christmas Presence (a fun musical play about the story of Christmas for children and families) to be performed at the Mills St. Theatre, Cheltenham. Director: Elizabeth Semmel. Actors must be 16+. Running mid December, rehearsals Oct, Nov, Dec. For audition bookings/info: call Elizabeth 0410 665252 or Ann 0409 532 166.

■ The 1812 Theatre: Clue on Stage (adapted from the Paramount Pictures film by Jonathan Lynn and the board game from Hasbro, Inc.) October 26 at 7pm, October 27 at 6.30pm at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Amy Calvert. Audition bookings: outlook.office.com/book/ AuditionBookings@theatreperson.com Cheryl Threadgold

Entertainment

BROTHERS BARE

■ Ranting Mime Productions in conjunction with Theatre Works present BrothersBareat 7.15pm from October 7-11 at the Theatre Works Explosive Factory in St Kilda.

Co-written by Jessica Fallico and Iley Jones and directed by Jessica Fallico, BrothersBare is described as: 'A dark dissection into the nature of the Grimm’s Brothers work. A discovery of fairy tales, their haunting origins and the unrealistic expectations they induce in adulthood. Using pillars of traditional fairytale and nursery rhyme—seemingly virtuous morals will be daringly twisted, challenging wellloved fables, as we descend down the rabbit hole.’

Performance Season: Oct. 7-11 at 7.15pm

Venue: Theatre Works Explosives Factory, rear laneway 67 Inkerman St, Off Lyell Street, St Kilda.

Bookings: melbournefringe.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

New at MTC Board

■ The Melbourne Theatre Company has announced international award-winning playwright Suzie Miller as a new board member.

Suzie Miller is a globally celebrated playwright, screenwriter and novelist whose work has been staged in over 100 productions worldwide.

With degrees in law and science, she is drawn to complex human stories and contemporary themes.

Her breakthrough play Prima Facie premiered at Griffin Theatre Company in Australia before enjoying a sold-out season at Melbourne Theatre Company

Internationally, it has since had acclaimed new productions in London’s West End and on Broadway, been translated into more than 20 languages, been produced all over the world in around 48 countries and published as a novel in six languages.

The feature film adaptation of PrimaFacie starring Cynthia Erivo is currently in production and marks Suzie’s screen debut.

Suzie Miller said: “I’m honoured to be joining the Melbourne Theatre Company Board at such an exciting time and delighted to be able to support the incredible stewardship of Anne-Louise Sarks as a strong female creative leader.

“The company is brimming with momentum and big ideas, with a bold vision for the future and an extraordinary 2026 season being announced this October.

“I look forward to contributing to its work, and watching the company continue to flourish, as we continue to nurture the arts here in Melbourne and beyond.”

Melbourne Theatre Company Chair Martin Hosking said: "We are delighted to welcome Suzie Miller to the Melbourne Theatre Company Board. Suzie’s extraordinary interna-

More Auditions

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: The Great Divide (by David Williamson) October 19 at 2pm; October 20 at 7.30pm at Unit 8, 417419 Warrigal Rd, Cheltenham. Director: Damian Jones. Audition bookings: mordialloctheatre.com.au/auditions-thegreat-divide/ ■ Williamstown Little Theatre: The Browning Version/South Downs (by Terrence Rattigan/David Hare) October 19, 20 at 7pm at 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Deborah Fabbro. Audition bookings: orbbaf@ozemail.com.au Cheryl Threadgold

tional achievements and deep understanding of theatre will be invaluable as we continue to build on Melbourne Theatre Company’s artistic legacy and look ahead to the ambitious Season 2026."

A statement said that Miller joins a Board committed to shaping the future of Melbourne’s arts culture, supporting the production of innovative works and championing the next generation of artists.

Cheryl Threadgold

Cirque Experience

■ World class circus artists and mainstage musical theatre stars are performing together in Oz:TheCirqueExperienceuntil November 1 at The Alex Theatre, St Kilda.

Described as 'an all-new theatrical experience', this will be the well-known Oz story reinvented with stunts, killer songs and a modern twist – perfect for all ages.

Musical theatre talent Elena Atanasovski (Footloose:TheMusical) will star as Dorothy, with world-touring artist Dan Price (CirqueDu Soleil,HarryPotterandtheCursedChild) as Tinman, and Bede Nash (Circus Oz) as Scarecrow.

The Wizard will be played by multi-skilled circus, dance, theatre and music performer Jonathan Nash-Daly, who was recently the comedian host at Brisbane’s iconic Pink Flamingo cabaret club.

From gravity-defying acrobatics and tricks to 'stunning design and jaw-dropping effects', Oz:TheCirqueExperienceis a kaleidoscopic collision of performance and play.

Other cast members include Luke Blaze as The Illusionist, Jordan Twigg (Beautiful:The CaroleKingMusical,FootlooseTheMusical) as The Wicked Witch, Hannah Gardiner (Priscilla: The Musical) as Glinda the Good Witch, with Conor Putland (Friends!TheMusicalParody,GreaseTheMusical), Zoe Rose (Cruel Intentions: The Musical) and Jessica Cannizzaro making up the ensemble.

Performance Details: Until November 1

Venue: The Alex, St Kilda

Performance Duration: 2 hours, incl. 20 minute interval.

Bookings and further details: oztheexperience.com

Cheryl Threadgold

● ● Jonathan Nash-Daly in Oz: the Cirque Experience

● ● Peter Bishop in Hawke ■ An Australian prime minister dies and wakes up in purgatory, wondering why he is there.

No, it’s not a new political joke, but the premise of a new musical play called Hawke, about the legendary Robert James Hawke, Australia’s 23rd prime minister.

Written by P. Kauffman , and Denny Lawrence, with original music written by David Pereira and performed by Pereira and Edward Neeman , Hawke comes to Chapel off Chapel this week.

The real Hawke won four consecutive elections and had the highest popularity rating of any prime minister since the debut of opinion polls.

But according to the fantasy of the play, Hawke’s success was founded on a heinous act, so after his death Hawke wakes up in purgatory, the waiting room between heaven and hell in Christian mythology.

But he has visitors – a bishop with a dark past and his two wives, wife number one, Hazel Hawke, and wife number two, the still very much alive Blanche d’Alpuget. As the action of the play unfolds, we learn whether Hawke will end up in heaven or hell.

Playing characters based on people who are so familiar from recent memory presents a huge challenge, but director Denny Lawrence has found four actors at the top of their game.

Playing the larger than life character of Hawke is Peter Houghton, with Mike Bishop as The Bishop (naturally), and Ana Mitsakis as Hazel, and Chelsea Plumley as Blanche. Described as “an excellent script” from former Labor staffer for Hawke, Dr Mark O’Connor , and as “more Macbeth and Rigoletto than Wharf Revie or Crocodile Dundee” by Michael Jackson from Harvard, the premise sounds intriguing.

And there’s only one way to find out if Hawke ascends or descends from purgatory, and that’s to go and see this new musical play.

It’s running for a short season at Chapel off Chapel from October 9-12. Book tickets at chapeloffchapel.com.au or call 8290 7000. Julie Houghton

British Film

■ The 2025 Russell Hobbs British Film Festival will be presented by Palace Cinemas in Melbourne from November 5 to December 7, featuring 'exquisite dramas, fascinating documentaries, much-loved retrospectives, comedies and more' at Palace Cinemas, Palace Nova and Luna Palace Cinemas.

The festival centrepiece is the highly anticipated drama Anemone starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Sean Bean and Samantha Morton, in the directorial debut from Ronan Day-Lewis

In a script co-written by Daniel Day-Lewis and son Ronan, the film explores the complex and profound ties that exist between brothers, fathers, and sons. The explosive drama is Day-Lewis' first film in eight years in which he portrays a former British soldier who lives in the remote woods who must confront his past.

In icy suspense thriller TheDeadofWinter, Emma Thompson plays Barb, a woman travelling alone through snowbound northern Minnesota. Barb interrupts the kidnapping of a teenage girl, and hours from the nearest town and with no phone service, she realises that she is the young girl’s only hope.

Moss and Freud is the biopic about the life of era-defining supermodel Kate Moss and her relationship with the acclaimed British artist Lucian Freud, starring Ellie Bamber and Derek Jacobi as Freud Scenic drama TheNorth is an adventurous tale of two old friends who embark on a 600-kilometre journey through the Scottish Highlands. The full program is to be announced and tickets on sale in mid-October. www.britishfilmfestival.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

● ● Suzie Miller

● ● Arianna Marchiori in Brothers Bare. Photo: Steven Mitchell Wright.

Tapas Bar Home-Made Desserts

Great Range of Cocktails and Mocktails Available.

Teas and Coffees

Don’t

CATO THE WISE

★Wendy Stapleton will be guest speaker at Jeff Joseph’s Marquee Luncheon Club at South Melbourne on Tuesday, October 21.

★The Wiggles will perform their Australian Big Show tour from November 1.

★Hush Foundation, created by Dr Catherine Crock, is about to celebrate its 25-year anniversary.

★Ruby Hunter will be posthumously inducted into the 2025 Australian Women In Music Honour Roll at this year’s Award Ceremony alongside Helen Reddy, Dame Joan Sutherland, Olivia Newton John, Judith Durham and others.

★A $10,000 cash prize will be awarded to the winner of the Fantastic Film Prize, spotlighting visionary filmmakers pushing the boundaries of horror, sci-fi, fantasy, action, cult, and the downright unclassifiable.

★The Book of Mormon will return to Melbourne’s Princess Theatre from February.

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Rourke’s Reviews Entertainment

★The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra will celebrate the 2025 cohort of the MSO Academy with a special End of Year Showcase on Sunday, November 16, at the Iwaki Auditorium

★Possum Gully Fine arts Gallery, near Maryborough, will open a new exhibition from November 1. Artists include Roz Avent, Dean Bowen, Wes Lancaster, Janette Lucas, Vida Pearson, Geoff Todd, Nicholas Truscott, Margaret Voterakis, Patricia Walsh, Nick Driden, Marina Pribaz, Petrus Spronk, Fiona Silver and Angie Russi.

★The Japanese Film Festival will screen at The Kino, ACMI, from November 6.

★Harry Potter: The Exhibition at the Fever Exhibition and Experience Centre in Brunswick, has been extended until November 30.

★ Skyhooks guitarist Bob 'Bongo' Starkie has been forced to cancel 'Ego Is Not A Dirty Word' 50th Anniversary celebrations.

● ● Kelly Williams (Jean) at left, Keziah Gillam (Rona), Emma Spencer (Sian), Bella Barker (Revlon) and Kate Lawson (Marilyn) in The Revlon Girl.

The Revlon Girl

■ Encore Theatre Company presents TheRevlonGirlfrom October 10

- 19 at the Clayton Community Centre Theatrette, Cooke St, Clayton

Written by British playwright Neil Anthony Docking and directed by David Krause, this emotion-evoking, uplifting award-winning play tells of the tragic aftermath of the 1966 Aberfan disaster in Wales

The tragic incident caused the death of 144 people, including 116 children, when a mountain of coal waste crushed homes and a school in the small Welsh town.

The play is set eight months after the disaster and depicts four bereaved mothers who meet with a Revlon makeup artist in the local pub one evening to talk, cry and even laugh without feeling guilty – all the while navigating how to cope with heart-breaking loss

Performance Season: Oct 10, 11, 16, 17, 18 at 8pm; Oct 12, 18, 19 at 2pm Venue: Clayton Community Centre Theatrette, 9-15 Cooke St., Clayton Tickets: $28 Group (10 or more) $25 (please call 1300 739 099 to book in a group)

Bookings: Trybooking or encoretheatre.com.au Cheryl Threadgold

Sync-ready

Victorian music

■ The Victorian Music Finder, a new digital platform, is making it easier than ever to discover and license sync-ready music from Victorian artists.

The Victorian Music Development Office , in partnership with Level Two Music, has launched the Victorian Music Finder, a purpose-built platform that streamlines how Victorian music is discovered, accessed and licensed.

The Victorian Music Finder helps you find, listen to and select Victorian music and Level Two will ensure that you are connected with the copyright owners for licensing.

A key focus of the VMDO is strengthening Victoria’s music industry by creating sustainable revenue opportunities for local artists, composers and rights holders.

The Victorian Music Finder supports this goal by offering a centralised, curated library of music by artists from or based in Victoria, and making it easier for organisations to license local music for their projects.

The Victorian Music Finder is powered by DISCO, a cloud-based music catalogue management and discovery platform founded in Victoria.

Trusted globally by top music supervisors, labels, publishers and artist managers, DISCO hosts over 140 million tracks and delivers an industry-standard user experience designed to support seamless collaboration and licensing workflows.

Tailored for government agencies, advertising firms, production companies and content creators across film, television, games and broadcast, the Victorian Music Finder allows users to search by genre, create playlists and explore curated collections within an intuitive interface built to spotlight Victorian talent.

To support the rollout, Level Two Music will offer concierge-style services, including guided searches and licensing administration with the relevant rights holders.

With over two decades of experience in music supervision, Level Two works with leading clients across the creative industries and will ensure users are fully supported throughout the process.

This launch comes at a pivotal time. According to The Bass Line report from Music Australia , synchronisation licensing generated $64 million for the Australian music industry in 2023, highlighting its growing significance as a revenue stream for artists and labels.

The Victorian Music Finder represents a new model for industry development – driving economic growth through increased investment in music, connecting decisionmakers directly with Victorian-made content and enabling tangible commercial opportunities for the local music ecosystem.

Kirsty Rivers, VMDO General Manager,c said: “The Victorian Music Finder is an investment in the Victorian music ecosystem. While users benefit from streamlined access to high-quality, sync-ready music, local musicians gain increased visibility and direct licensing opportunities.”

Karl Richter, Level Two and DISCO Founder and CEO, said: “As both Level Two and DISCO were founded in Victoria, it’s incredibly rewarding to support this local-first initiative with global reach.

“DISCO powers discovery and connects the world’s leading music professionals and now, through the Victorian Music Finder, it’s celebrating music talent from across Victoria.” Ben Starick

Good Boy

■ (M). 73 minutes. Now showing in selected cinemas.

What could be glibly described as TheSixthSensewith a dog, this largely compelling film may not fully overcome its short film origins, but a carefully created atmosphere and a terrific lead performance makes this worthwhile viewing.

The premise is a very simple one; Todd (Shane Jensen) is suffering from an increasingly debilitating illness, and deciding to shun the support offered by his sister Vera (Arielle Friedman), takes a trip to the isolated property of his deceased grandpa (Larry Fessenden), attempts to deal with his painful mortality, while watching old VHS tapes of Grandpa, who seemed to suffer a similar fate in the house which Vera believes is haunted.

The twist is that all this is seen from the POV of Todd’s loyal Nova Scotia retriever dog, Indy, who can sense and see whatever is lurking in this gloomy home.

Co-writer/director Ben Leonberg expands his short film, crafting a slow burn horror/drama that relies more on mood than plot.

As the movie progresses, one can see more and more that it began as a short, with Leonberg not building enough on certain aspects to sustain a feature length running time.

What Leonberg does succeed with is building a connection between dog and owner, and when the film reaches its ending, there is an effective, emotional pay-off.

Due to the meticulous nature required regarding the canine central performance, Leonberg patiently shot the film over a period of three years, but the results are incredible.

Indy (the director’s own dog) is astounding, delivering the kind of expressions and movement that some human actors would find hard mastering.

The audience are convinced of Indy’s loyalty, and unsettled nature when spooky incidents are occurring.

The humans are largely secondary, but the cast are all okay.

Though I understand Leonberg’s decision to keep him partially out-of-frame or in shadows, I wish Todd was more fleshed out and more in frame, especially in the early stages, to more properly convey the love between dog and owner.

More background to Grandpa

and Vera would also have been appreciated.

Cinematographer Wade Grebnoel deserves credit for the film’s impressive look, and perfectly capturing its leading actor.

GoodBoy is definitely familiar material, but its unique viewpoint makes it something very interesting and involving.

Though I wish the script was meatier, this is worth seeking out, and gives us a possibly a future, four-legged star.

RATING - ***½ Him

■ (MA). 102 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.

Potentially relevant and dark subject matter goes unrealised in this odd misfire, which begins with a promising set-up, but then veers so wildly all-over-the-place, that any commentary or point is lost. Tyriq Withers stars as Cam, the next big thing in Grid Iron football.

Listed in the draft, this hotshot quarterback, after a brutal setback, is chosen by legendary player Isaiah White (Marlon Wayans) to attend his sprawling, secluded palace to take part in a one week training course, to see if he truly has what it takes to follow in his idol’s footsteps.

It will be a terrifying journey for the young man. Co-writer/director Justin Tipping, who hasn’t made a feature film since the solid Kicks in 2016 (it is worth tracking down), wants to show the inhumane nature of modern sport, and Grid Iron in particular, where young people, poor black men especially, are put through the meat grinder for profit and power by those that run the show above them.

There is almost an expendable, frontline soldier mentality presented, but Tipping and his coscreenwriters can’t seem to build on and detail these great ideas properly, so everything frustratingly starts to miss the mark at an early stage, and by the time the film reaches its finale, any dramatic weight or unsettling horror has long disappeared.

Withers makes for a dull lead, and while Wayans gives a committed performance, there’s not enough to his character to make it truly work.

Him does have lofty goals, but the execution is weak, resulting in a huge missed opportunity.

RATING

Maxwell Newton

In Memory of

● ● Aaron Rourke

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Lovatts Crossword No 30

Across Across Down Down

2. Sleeps through winter

7. Waterproof fabric

11. Greatly delighted

17. Baked treat

18. Sharp humour

19. Boxer, Muhammad ...

20. Terrible tsar

21. Rissole

22. Timetable

23. Differentiate

26. New Zealander

28. Marvel

29. Windpipe

31. Alien spacecraft (1,1,2)

34. Of newborn

36. Get to feet

39. Stagger

41. Decisive trial (4,4)

43. Most peculiar

46. Artist's naked models

47. Annul

49. Took (baby) off bottle

51. Lists articles

52. Show on screen

53. Nap

54. Lieu

55. Guitarist, ... Clapton

56. Comic verse

61. Sightseers

64. Electrode material

65. Lout

66. Nomadic beggars

67. Fire warming shelf

69. Gaggle birds

71. Boat launching ramp

74. River Jordan lake (4,3)

76. Case-harden

78. Tip of grain

79. Assail

81. Baronet's title

83. Faithful

84. Huge marine mammal

86. Renovated

89. Actress, ... Dukakis

90. ... Syne (4,4)

93. Group of fish

94. Releases grip (4,2)

97. Designer, ... Laurent (4,2)

100. Pause punctuation mark

101. Bewitching

103. Promote product

106. Et cetera (3,2,2)

108. Islam text

109. Speared

110. Swaddle

111. Effeminate

112. Dock

113. Match before final

115. Weathermen

118. Wears overly-fine attire

121. Paradise

124. Ruin

128. Idolise

129. Atlantic or Indian

130. Futility

134. Utilisation

135. Alpaca relative

136. Viper

137. Typeface

138. Burn with steam

139. Put pressure (on)

140. Citizenship

143. Greeting word

144. Last Greek letter

147. Annoy

150. Walk in water

151. Avoidable

155. Graveyard areas

157. Periods

158. Animal welfare group (1,1,1,1,1)

159. Discharge from army

162. More work-shy

164. Scrubbing stone

167. Troubled

168. Cowhands

169. Memphis is there

172. Headache tablet

173. Unfastened

174. Hooded jackets

177. Extreme limit

180. Relaxes

181. Destroy

183. Salary list

184. Butt receptacles

186. Inaccuracy

187. Reproductive gland

188. Sort

191. Dodging (duty)

195. Actors Gibson or Brooks

197. Untruthful

198. Incited (5,2)

200. Carved picture design

202. Selected

203. Chaps

205. Verify

206. Supplement, ... out

208. Singer, ... Garland

209. Stowing away

212. Confused rush

215. Shocked inhalation

217. Copper alloy

220. Small & delicate

222. Deficiency disease

224. Oily medicinal cream

226. Local

228. Stoneworkers

229. About-face (1-4)

230. Australia/New Zealand sea

232. Completely envelop

235. Songbird, ... wren

236. Arab land

238. Major celebrity

241. Scientific information

242. Distance travelled

243. Try

244. In present condition (2,2)

246. Mixing with others

252. White wine grape

253. Applicable

254. Respectfully, on bended ...

255. Irish movement (1,1,1)

256. Recline

257. Red-skinned cheese

258. Hidden past (4,6)

259. Cleaver

260.Assumptions

1. Taxi-driver

2. Confines (4,2)

3. Bird's mouth

4. Putting together again

5. TV broadcast

6. Stockholm natives

7. Singer, ... Redding

8. Jeans pioneer, ... Strauss

9. Martial art, ... fu

10. German WWII fascist

11. Seventh, ..., ninth

12. Remodels

13. Fab Four group (3,7)

14. Utter defeat

15. Become extinct (3,3)

16. Pity-arousing quality

24. Metric tons

25. Unexpended

26. Enlightenment

27. Seducer

28. Former Chinese leader, ... Zedong

30. One-spot card

32. Fierce

33. First aid bed

35. Yes vote

37. Identical sibling

38. Sweeping receptacles

39. Not to mention (3,5)

40. Ship's staff

42. Lion's lair

44. Dublin republic

45. Humanitarian, Mother ...

47. Actress, ... Kidman

48. Apparel

50. Dead as a ...

53. Mediocre (2-2)

57. Of childbirth

58. Six-stringed instrument

59. Ill will (3,5)

60. Get a word in ...

62. Infuse

63. Unappreciated

65. Longbow timber

68. ... & brace

70. Soil excavator (5,5)

72. Playwright, Oscar ...

73. Spinning toys (2-3)

74. Duck's mate

75. Regions

77. Circus director

80. Undying

82. Theatrical

85. Suffered torment (over decision)

87. Panache

88. Singer, ... Fitzgerald

91. Salt Lake City state

92. Corporals, sergeants etc (1,1,2)

95. Nails

96. Small devices

98. Arteries, blood ...

99. Sedate (character)

102. Otherwise

104. Oaths

105. News

107. Sydney's state (3,5,5)

113. Drink down

114. Intimidated

116. Outdoors (4-3)

117. Magic lamp owner

119. Reincarnation

120. Sent via Internet

122. Titled widow

123. Aggravates

125. Gumtree marsupial

126. Trial showings

127. Scientist, ... Newton

128. Greek fable teller

130. Hot water dispenser

131. Consume

132. Famous record label (1,1,1)

133. Secret agent

141. Canadian province

142. Brass instrument

145. In a motherly way

146. Ethnic extermination

148. Weirdness

149. Cards between sweethearts

152. Struggler

153. Julia Roberts' film, ... Brockovich

154. Came into view

155. Sedans & coupes

156. Relief brooch

160. Be an omen of

161. Repugnant

163. Egyptian snakes

165. Tabbies or Siamese

166. Threw into disorder

167. Breezy

170. Coffee style

171. Extol

175. Onward

176. Danish novelist, ... Blixen

178. Cat cry

179. Authority (3-2)

182. Mental pictures

185. Vehicle's wheel cover

188. Injudicious (3-6)

189. Most considerate

190. Club's yearly meeting (1,1,1)

192. Briskness

193. Unreal

194. Diamonds

195. Puritans

196. 366-day cycles (4,5)

199. Proprietors

201. Beginning

204. Glimpse

207. Eager

210. Armoured US animals

211. Vagrant

213. Door rugs

214. Bivouac site

216. Woodwind instrument

217. Asian sultanate

218. Tendons

219. Eyelid swelling

221. Sticky coal by-product

223. Put at risk

225. Chatted

227. Cry of discovery

228. Close-mouthed

231. Mesh trap

233. Nominating

234. Great loathing

235. Missionary priest

237. Henpecked

239. Fries lightly

240. Car safety cushion (3,3)

245. Pub drink

247. Cease talking, ... up

248. Your school, ... mater

249. Des Moines is there

250. Indolent

251. Pudding starch

By Rob Foenander

Clayton’s Uluru

■ Melbourne singer-songwriter Clayton Saunders has released his next single.

Titled Uluru, the song captures the timeless beauty, deep history, and cultural significance of Ayers Rock — a sacred place that stands as a symbol of resilience, connection and storytelling, says his media release.

Hall of Fame

■ The Memo Music Hall will host the Victorian Blues Music Hall of Fame 2025. The night will celebrate the legends, venues and champions who keep the blues alive throughout the state. 2025 inductees and honourees will include Lloyd Spiegel, Rob Rowe, The Rainbow Hotel, Colin Thompson, Roger McLachlan (R I P)and Alan Stafford Wednesday, November 26, commencing 8pm. Tickets at trybooking

New for Lance

■ Country music singer-songwriter Lance Birrell has launched his new track True blueAussieSon.

It’s a song that depicts the Australian way of life having a go and doing your best.

Whether you are working on the land, driving a truck or part of our military, we all do what we can to keep this country going.

It’s about our core values, respect and love for our fellow mates and families which is our Country’s heritage and what we stand for, says Lance. - Rob Foenander

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Celebration of older LGBTIQA+ people

■ All The Queens Men announce the return of TheComingBackOut Salon, a joyful afternoon tea dance celebrating older LGBTIQ+ people, their allies and chosen families.

Taking place on Sunday, October 19, at The Edge, Fed Square, this special event honours the resilience, visibility and fabulousness of elders through music, dancing and community connection.

Since its inception, The ComingBackOutSalonhas become a cornerstone of LGBTIQ+ community celebration, building on the legacy of the internationally acclaimed ComingBackOutBall

More intimate in scale, the Salon continues to offer a safe and welcoming space for older LGBTIQ+ people, many of whom have lived through decades of discrimination and invisibility, to be celebrated publicly with pride, respect, and joy.

This year’s Salon will feature performances from incredible vocalists from Melbourne including Robyn Archer, Tina Del Twist, Nefertiti LaNegra, Ash Flanders, Nicolette Forte, JXCKY, June Jones and 2Joocee , with live piano accompaniment Toni Lalich and a repertoire of uplifting classics and queer anthems.

Together, they will transform The Edge into an inclusive cabaret-style ballroom where everyone belongs on the dance floor.

“The Salon is about more than performance, it’s about belonging. It’s a chance for older LGBTIQ+ communities to connect with one another, to share stories and to

Crossword Solution No 30

dance freely in a space where they are cherished,” said Tristan Meecham, Co- Artistic Director of All The Queens Men.

Guests will enjoy live music, dancing and afternoon tea, alongside opportunities to connect across generations and communities.

The event is for older LGBTIQ+ participants and their allies, affirming the central message that everyone deserves to be seen, celebrated and loved.

Performers in The Coming Back Out Salon 2025:

Tristan Meecham is a queer artist and performer, who connects community, audiences and artists together. He is the Co-Director of All The Queens Men with Bec Reid.

Bec Reid is a performer, producer, director and choreographer. She encourages people to experience their worlds in revelatory ways through highly physical, participatory, practical and celebratory actions.

Robyn Archer is known to many for her one-woman shows, by others for her original songs and recordings and now by thousands more for her arts festivals in Canberra, Melbourne, Adelaide and Tasmania June Jones is a singer songwriter whose everevolving approach to music is underpinned by a dedication to candid emotionality, humour and an idiosyncratic combination of genres / styles.

The Coming Back Out Salon Sunday, October 19 2.30pm – 5.00pm The Edge, Fed Square

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

● ● Jane Jones

WEEKEND’S LOCAL CRICKET FINAL SCORES

Premier

■ Men’s Premier Firsts. Round 1. One Day. St Kilda 1st XI 4/170 v Prahran 1st XI 9/169. Northcote 1st XI 10/248 v Carlton 1st XI 6/ 249. Melbourne University 1st XI 10/183 v Camberwell Magpies 1st XI 4/186. Greenvale Kangaroos 1st XI 10/146 v Richmond 1st XI 1/ 147. Fitzroy Doncaster 1st XI 8/203 v Dandenong 1st XI 3/204. Melbourne 1st XI 1/ 266 v Essendon 1st XI 9/262. Geelong 1st XI 6/247 v Ringwood 1st XI 10/159. Kingston Hawthorn 1st XI 10/234 v Footscray 1st XI 7/ 263. Casey South Melbourne 1st XI 3/107 v Frankston Peninsula 1st XI 10/104. Seconds. Round 1. One Day. Prahran 2nd XI 10/172 v St Kilda 2nd XI 7/211. Carlton 2nd XI 7/139 v Northcote 2nd XI 10/138. Camberwell Magpies 2nd XI v Melbourne University 2nd XI 4/36, abandoned. Richmond 2nd XI 6/177 v Greenvale Kangaroos 2nd XI 10/ 176. Dandenong 2nd XI 10/122 v Fitzroy Doncaster 2nd XI 7/232. Essendon 2nd XI 5/ 237 v Melbourne 2nd XI 5/236. Ringwood 2nd XI 10/202 v Geelong 2nd XI 8/209. Footscray 2nd XI 10/146 v Kingston Hawthorn 2nd XI 8/ 251. Frankston Peninsula 2nd XI 5/141 v Casey South Melbourne 2nd XI 10/137.

Thirds. Round 1. One Day. St Kilda 3rd XI 9/217 v Prahran 3rd XI 9/215. Northcote 3rd XI 4/207 v Carlton 3rd XI 10/203. Camberwell Magpies 3rd XI v Melbourne University 3rd XI. Greenvale Kangaroos 3rd XI 10/168 v Richmond 3rd XI 10/168. Fitzroy Doncaster 3rd XI 5/191 v Dandenong 3rd XI 6/189. Melbourne 3rd XI 5/120 v Essendon 3rd XI 10/119. Ringwood 3rd XI 10/207 v Geelong 3rd XI 4/ 208. Kingston Hawthorn 3rd XI v Footscray 3rd XI. Frankston Peninsula 3rd XI v Casey South Melbourne 3rd XI 10/155.

Fourths. Round 1. One Day. Prahran 4th XI 10/176 v St Kilda 4th XI 10/200. Carlton 4th XI v Northcote 4th XI. Melbourne University 4th XI v Camberwell Magpies 4th XI. Greenvale Kangaroos 4th XI 10/118 v Richmond 4th XI 7/164. Dandenong 4th XI 7/224 v Fitzroy Doncaster 4th XI 5/228. Essendon 4th XI 9/167 v Melbourne 4th XI 5/304. Geelong 4th XI v Ringwood 4th XI. Footscray 4th XI 10/ 156 v Kingston Hawthorn 4th XI 10/148. Casey South Melbourne 4th XI 10/147 v Frankston Peninsula 4th XI 4/149.

Sub-District

■ East-West 1st XI. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Balwyn 1st XI v Noble Park 1st XI. Donvale 1st XI v Taylors Lakes 1st XI. Endeavour Hills 1st XI v Altona 1st XI. Mt Waverley 1st XI v Box Hill 1st XI. Hoppers Crossing 1st XI v Yarraville 1st XI. Spotswood 1st XI v Croydon 1st XI. Werribee 1st XI v Melton 1st XI. Williamstown 1st XI v Bayswater 1st XI. East-West 2nd XI. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Noble Park 2nd XI v Balwyn 2nd XI. Taylors Lakes 2nd XI v Donvale 2nd XI. Altona 2nd XI v Endeavour Hills 2nd XI. Box Hill 2nd XI v Mt Waverley 2nd XI. Yarraville 2nd XI v Hoppers Crossing 2nd XI. Croydon 2nd XI v Spotswood 2nd XI. Melton 2nd XI v Werribee 2nd XI. Bayswater 2nd XI v Williamstown 2nd XI.

North-South 1st XI. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Coburg 1st XI v Preston 1st XI. Kew 1st XI v Moorabbin 1st XI. Plenty Valley 1st XI v Ivanhoe 1st XI. St Bernard's OC 1st XI v Caulfield 1st XI. Brighton 1st XI v Strathmore 1st XI. Elsternwick 1st XI v Malvern 1st XI. Oakleigh 1st XI v Port Melbourne 1st XI. Ormond 1st XI v Brunswick 1st XI.

North-South 2nd XI. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. Moorabbin 2nd XI v Kew 2nd XI. Ivanhoe 2nd XI v Plenty Valley 2nd XI. Caulfield 2nd XI v St Bernard's OC 2nd XI. Strathmore 2nd XI v Brighton 2nd XI. Malvern 2nd XI v Elsternwick 2nd XI. Port Melbourne 2nd XI v Oakleigh 2nd XI. Brunswick 2nd XI v Ormond 2nd XI. Preston 2nd XI v Coburg 2nd XI. North-West 3rd XI. Division 1. Round

1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Melton 3rd XI v Brunswick 3rd XI. Preston 3rd XI v Hoppers Crossing 3rd XI. Taylors Lakes 3rd XI v St Bernard's OC 3rd XI. Werribee 3rd XI v Plenty Valley 3rd XI.

North-West 3rd XI. Division 1. Round

1. Saturday, October 11. Melton 3rd XI v Brunswick 3rd XI. Preston 3rd XI v Hoppers Crossing 3rd XI. Taylors Lakes 3rd XI v St Bernard's OC 3rd XI. Werribee 3rd XI v Plenty Valley 3rd XI.

North-West 3rd XI. Division 2. Round

1. Saturday, October 11. Altona 3rd XI v Strathmore 3rd XI. Kew 3rd XI v Coburg 3rd XI. Spotswood 3rd XI v Williamstown 3rd XI. Yarraville 3rd XI v Ivanhoe 3rd XI.

North-West 4th XI. Division 1. Round

1. Saturday, October 11. Brunswick 4th XI v Melton 4th XI. Hoppers Crossing 4th XI v Preston 4th XI. St Bernard's OC 4th XI v Taylors Lakes 4th XI. Plenty Valley 4th XI v Werribee 4th XI.

North-West 4th XI. Division 2. Round

1. Saturday, October 11. Strathmore 4th XI v Altona 4th XI. Coburg 4th XI v Kew 4th XI. Williamstown 4th XI v Spotswood 4th XI. Sunday, October 12: Ivanhoe 4th XI v Yarraville 4th XI.

South-East 3rd XI. Division 1. Round

1. Saturday, October 11. Balwyn 3rd XI v Elsternwick 3rd XI. Caulfield 3rd XI v Malvern 3rd XI. Mt Waverley 3rd XI v Bayswater 3rd XI. Oakleigh 3rd XI v Croydon 3rd XI.

South-East 3rd XI. Division 2. Round

1. Saturday, October 11. Endeavour Hills 3rd XI v Brighton 3rd XI. Noble Park 3rd XI v Moorabbin 3rd XI. Ormond 3rd XI v Donvale 3rd XI. Port Melbourne 3rd XI v Box Hill 3rd XI.

South-East 4th XI. Division 1. Round

1. Saturday, October 11. Malvern 4th XI v Caulfield 4th XI. Croydon 4th XI v Oakleigh 4th XI. Sunday, October 12: Elsternwick 4th XI v Balwyn 4th XI. Bayswater 4th XI v Mt Waverley 4th XI.

South-East 4th XI. Division 2. Round

1. Saturday, October 11. Brighton 4th XI v Endeavour Hills 4th XI. Moorabbin 4th XI v Noble Park 4th XI. Donvale 4th XI v Ormond 4th XI. Box Hill 4th XI v Port Melbourne 4th XI.

Diamond Valley

■ Barclay Shield. Round 1. One Day. Bundoora 1st XI 5/161 v Rosebank 1st XI 8/ 159. Diamond Creek 1st XI 2/90 v Epping 1st XI. Macleod 1st XI 8/207 v Heidelberg 1st XI 8/201. Riverside 1st XI 9/173 v North Eltham Wanderers 1st XI 4/177. Rosanna 1st XI 6/ 172 v Bundoora United 1st XI 5/171. Money Shield. Round 1. One Day. Banyule 1st XI 3/139 v Montmorency 1st XI 8/138. Eltham 1st XI 5/146 v Research Eltham Collegians 1st XI 10/187. Mernda 1st XI 5/196 v Greensborough 1st XI 10/60. Bundoora Park 1st XI 3/198 v Lower Plenty 1st XI 5/203. Lalor Stars 1st XI 7/245 v Plenty 1st XI 10/219. Mash Shield. Round 1. One Day. Dennis 1st XI 7/177 v Rivergum 1st XI 5/178. Laurimar 1st XI 4/159 v South Morang 1st XI 10/158. Lower Eltham 1st XI 2/222 v Mill Park 1st XI 9/136. Thomastown 1st XI 9/158 v Keon Park CC 1st XI 5/161. Thomastown United 1st XI 10/75 v Hurstbridge 1st XI 1/76. Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 1st XI 10/212 v Panton Hill 1st XI 3/267.

B-Grade. Round 1. One Day. Plenty 2nd XI v Rosanna 2nd XI. Heidelberg 2nd XI v Mernda 2nd XI. Research Eltham Collegians 2nd XI v Diamond Creek 2nd XI. North Eltham Wanderers 2nd XI v Riverside 2nd XI. Montmorency 2nd XI v Banyule 2nd XI.

C-Grade. Round 1. One Day. Bundoora United 2nd XI 6/261 v Lalor Stars 2nd XI 10/ 258. Greensborough 2nd XI 10/139 v Macleod 2nd XI 8/174. South Morang 2nd XI 5/221 v Eltham 2nd XI 9/224. Lower Plenty 2nd XI 10/ 169 v Riverside 3rd XI 5/170. Rivergum 2nd XI 9/143 v Bundoora 2nd XI 2/145.

D-Grade. Round 1. One Day. Hurstbridge 2nd XI 1/64 v Diamond Creek 3rd XI 10/62. Mill Park 2nd XI 5/155 v Lower Plenty 3rd XI 2/226. Montmorency 3rd XI 10/120 v Laurimar 2nd XI 9/185. Panton Hill 2nd XI 2/63 V Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 2nd XI 10/60. Rosebank 2nd XI 2/101 V North Eltham Wanderers 3rd XI 6/100. Keon Park CC 2nd XI 5/ 169 V Bundoora Park 2nd XI 8/166.

E-Grade. Round 1. One Day. Banyule 3rd XI 3/116 V Thomastown United 2nd XI 8/115. Mernda 3rd XI 9/159 V Lower Eltham 2nd XI 5/163. Greensborough 3rd XI 8/242 V Heidelberg 3rd XI 10/161. Riverside 4th XIb 2/137v Thomastown 2nd XI 10/136. South Morang 3rd XI v Dennis 2nd XI 5/128.

Eastern

■ Dunstan Shield. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Edinburgh 1st XI v Glen Iris 1st XI. East Doncaster 1st XI v North Balwyn 1st XI. Bulleen 1st XI v Old Carey 1st XI. East Malvern Tooronga 1st XI v Mont Albert 1st XI. Wright Shield. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day.. Deepdene Bears 1st XI v Canterbury 1st XI. Ashburton Willows 1st XI v Surrey Hills 1st XI. Mulgrave 1st XI v Richmond City 1st XI. Heathmont 1st XI v Marcellin OC 1st XI.

A Turf. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Old Carey 2nd XI v Balwyn Saints 1st XI. Ashwood 1st XI v Mazenod OC 1st XI. Mont Albert 2nd XI v Boronia 1st XI. Hawthorn Boroondara 1st XI v Burwood 1st XI.

B Turf. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Canterbury 2nd XI v Deepdene Bears 2nd XI. Richmond Union 1st XI v Heathmont 2nd XI. North Balwyn 2nd XI v East Doncaster 2nd XI. St. Kevins Old Boys 1st XI v Bulleen 2nd XI.

C Turf. Round 1. Saturday, October 11.

One Day. La Trobe University 1st XI v East Malvern Tooronga 2nd XI. Boronia 2nd XI v Mulgrave 2nd XI. Burwood 2nd XI v Hawthorn Boroondara 2nd XI. Glen Iris 2nd XI v Edinburgh 2nd XI.

D Turf. Round 1. Saturday, October 11.

One Day. Surrey Hills 2nd XI vb Ashburton Willows 2nd XI. Richmond City 2nd XI v Mont Albert 3rd XI. Mazenod OC 2nd XI v Ashwood 2nd XI. Marcellin OC 2nd XI v Old Carey 3rd XI.

E Turf. Round 1. Saturday, October 11.

One Day. Heathmont 3rd XI v La Trobe University 2nd XI. Balwyn Saints 2nd XI v Deepdene Bears 3rd XI. Hawthorn Boroondara 3rd XI v Marcellin OC 3rd XI. East Malvern Tooronga 3rd XI v Edinburgh 3rd XI. Surrey Hills 3rd XI v Richmond Union 2nd XI.

F Turf. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Bulleen 3rd XI v Surrey Hills 4th XI. Richmond City 3rd XI v Hawthorn Boroondara 4th XI. St. Kevins Old Boys 2nd XI v East Malvern Tooronga 4th XI. Deepdene Bears 4th XI v East Doncaster 3rd XI. Mont Albert 4th XI v Heathmont 4th XI. MacGibbon Shield. Round 1. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Glen Waverley 1st XI 2/45 v West Ivanhoe United 1st XI 10/ 197. Holy Trinity 1st XI 10/162 v Trinity Willison 1st XI 3/20. Burwood Unt. Canterbury 1st XI 9-d/302 v STC South Camberwell 1st XI 1/4. Clifton Hill 1st XI v Deepdene Uniting 1st XI 9/ 255.

Burt Shield. Round 1. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. North Alphington 1st XI 10/315 v Glen Waverley 2nd XI 1/6. Trinity Willison 2nd XI 10/210 v Holy Trinity 2nd XI 0/ 1. St. Paul's Oakleigh District 1st XI 6-d/183 v Clifton Hill 2nd XI 10/26 & 0/8. Toorak Prahran 1st XI 10/304 v Burwood Unt. Canterbury 2nd XI 0/42.

Morn. Peninsula

■ Provincial Firsts. Round 1. One Day. Mornington 1sts 10/148 v Pines 1sts 10/176. Dromana 1sts 6/191 v Langwarrin 1sts 9/189. Red Hill 1sts 8/222 v Baden Powell 1sts 10/ 181. Sorrento 1sts 6/181 v Heatherhill 1sts 5/182.

Peninsula Firsts. Round 1. One Day. Balnarring 1sts 10/160 v Old Peninsula 1sts 5/163. Somerville 1sts 5/191 v Long Island 1sts 10/140. Seaford CC 1sts 10/143 v Mt Eliza 1sts 7/183. Moorooduc 1sts 9/118 v Rosebud 1sts 5/227.

District Firsts. Round 1. One Day. Rye 1sts 7/179 v Seaford Tigers 1sts 8/178. Crib Point 1sts 10/185 v Carrum Downs 1sts 8/ 188. Flinders 1sts 5/103 v Main Ridge 1sts 10/100. Boneo 1sts 3/108 v Carrum CC 1sts 10/107.

Sub-District Firsts. Round 1. One Day. Frankston YCW 1st 10/138 v Skye 1sts 4/142.

Delacombe Park 1sts 10/122 v Ballam Park 1sts 6/126. Pearcedale 1sts 9/142 v Baxter 1sts 1/144. Mt Martha 1sts v Tootgarook 1sts.

North Metro

■ Jika Shield. Round 1. One Day. Preston Baseballers CC 1st XI 3/128 v Donath CC 1st XI 9/126. Camrea Stingrays CC 1st XI v Olympic Colts CC 1st XI 4/129. Northern Socials CC 1st XI 10/185 v Fiji Victorian CC 1st XI 6/ 215. Jack Quick Shield. Round 1. One Day. Fiji Victorian CC 2nd XI 10/96 v West Preston CC 1st XI 3/171. Bellfield Bulls CC 1st XI 10/ 164 v Strathewen Cougars CC 1stXI 10/61. Reservoir Cobras CC 1st XI 5/170 v Cameron CC 1st XI 9/168. Jack Quick Shield. Round 1. One Day. Royal Park Reds 3rd XI 5/111 v Fairfield CC 1st XI 10/106. Ivanhoe Mavericks CC 1st XI 9/ 132 v Preston YCW District 1st XI 5/137. West Preston CC 2nd XI 10/123 v Preston Baseballers CC 2nd XI 5/158.

B-Grade. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Fiji Victorian CC 3rd XI v Northern Socials CC 2s XI. Bellfield Bulls CC 2nd XI v Wollert Rhinos CC 1st XI. Fairfield CC 2nd XI v West Preston CC 3rd XI.

C-Grade. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Royal Park Reds 4th XI v Olympic Colts CC 2nd XI. Camrea Stingrays CC 2nd XI v Fiji Victorian CC 4th XI. Preston Baseballers CC 3rd XI v Bellfield Bulls CC 4th XI. Bellfield Bulls CC 3rd XI v Reservoir Cobras CC 2nd XI.

Ringwood District

■ A-Grade. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Wonga Park 4XI 9/85 v St Andrews 4XI 2/87. South Croydon 3XI 0/103 v Wantirna South 3XI 6/101. Mooroolbark 3XI 6/197 v Heatherdale 3XI 8/82. Powelltown 1XI 5/269 v Norwood 4XI 6/186.

B-Grade. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Templeton 3XI 1/112 v Mooroolbark 4XI 9/110. Warrandyte 4XI 0/7 v Coldstream 2XI. South Warrandyte 3XI 7/171 v Kilsyth 4XI 9/169. Heathwood 3XI 2/117 v Mt Evelyn 3XI 10/115.

Bill Wilkins Cup. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Kilsyth 1XI 3/187 v Mooroolbark 1XI 8/184. Vermont 1XI 4/198 v Mt Evelyn 1XI 10/181. Wonga Park 1XI 10/ 248 v Warranwood 1XI 9/236. East Ringwood 1XI 9/123 v Bayswater Park 1XI 5/126. Heatherdale 1XI 3/241 v Wantirna South 1XI 8/193.

C-Grade. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. North Ringwood 4XI 7/94 v Chirnside Park 4XI 2/98. Croyd 8/160. St Andrews 5XI 6/128 v Wantirna 1XI 10/127. East Ringwood 4XI 4/205 v Warrandyte 5XI 10/204. D-Grade. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Mooroolbark 5XI 7/206 v Norwood 5XI 10/105. Lilydale 4XI 10/109 v Yarra Junction 3XI 8/238. Wandin 2XI 3/122 v Croydon Ranges 5XI 10/119. Warranwood 4XI 1/115 v Heatherdale 4XI 8/114.

David Beatty Shield. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Yarra Glen 1XI 10/94 v Wandin 1XI 7/96. Norwood 3XI 10/114 v Seville Burras 2XI 5/225. Mt Evelyn 2XI 7/283. North Ringwood 3XI 9/117. Bayswater Park 2XI 8/ 159 v Montrose 3XI 4/160. Don Smith Shield. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Kilsyth 3XI 7/176 v Hoddles Creek 1XI 7/206. Ainslie Park 3XI 8/281 v Warranwood 3XI 3/282. St Andrews 3XI 7/189 v Wonga Park 3XI 10/153. Warrandyte 3XI 4/ 246 v Croydon Ranges 3XI 9/143.

Western

■ A-Grade. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Truganina Strikers CC Yellow 1st XI v AA Tarneit 1st XI. Altona Sports 1st XI v Williams Landing SC 1st XI. West Point Titans 2nd XI v Manor Lakes Senior Mixed 2nd XI. ■ B-Grade. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. One Day. Wyndham Vale 3rd XI 7/260 v Altona Sports 2nd XI 7/224. Vic Bangladeshi SC 2nd XI 4/180 v Point Cook Centrals 3rd XI 5/178. Glen Orden Thunder 6th XI 10/158 v Western Lions Gryphons 1st XI 9/159. Edgar Cricket Club 1st XI 5/130 v Point Cook 5th XI 9/128.

(Back load Specialist. Conditions apply)

24 HOURS7 DAYS A WEEK

(Scrap bin available)

AINSWORTHS DO WELL AT CHARLTON

■ Central Victorian Racing at Charlton commenced the week on Monday September 29 with an eight event card and it was a good day for the Ainsworth family after Stawell trainer Jason Ainsworths 8Y0 Shadyshark HanoverLibinski gelding Hanover Jack driven by James Herbertson scored in the 2100 Charlton Caravan Park Pace over 2100 metres and brother Ashley based in Moyreisk landed the Vale Matt Donaldson Trotters Mobile over the same journey with 5Y0 Majestic Son-Catchya Maya mare Paris Jamilla with Jason doing the driving.

Hanover Jack after trailing Better Blue Boys which had whizzed across from gate five to lead easily enjoyed a cosy passage from the pole and after making use of the sprint lane, sailed home to record a 1.5 metre vicory from Over The Line (gate two-one two (four wide home turn, with Better Blue Boys weakening to be third 2.7 metres back. The mile rate 1 58. Paris Jamilla after following the poleline leader Castles In The Sky came away from the inside in the last lap dashing away to hold a handy margin on the home turn and greet the judge by 1.6 metres in advance of the hot favourite Zarski which missed away by a big margin making ground four wide in the last lap. Oopzee Daiszee (gate two- three pegs (one-one) last lap was third a half neck back. The mile rate 2-02.2.

■ Elliminyt partowner trainer Julie Brimacombe was successful with 6Y0 Tintin In America-Hula Gold mare Ittakeslove in the Vale Jeff Gadsden ace over 2100 metres.

With Michael Bellman in the spider, polemarker Ittakeslove after a cosy trail trailing the leader Normandy Nugget (gate five which flew the gate from barrier five) was another to use the sprint lane for victory, scoring by 3.2 metres over the leader. Ronzel Micky (three pegs from inside the second line) was third a neck back after also using the sprint lane. The mile rate 1-58.8.

■ Charlton duo Leon Fanning (trainer) and Luke Dunne (driver) were successful with inform and very honest 5Y0 Always B MikiHanover Chance mare Fair Chance in the 1609 metre Ames Australasia Pace Final for horses which had qualified in the heats held at Maryborough and Stawell.

Starting from gate two on the second line as Alcatraz Girl which had flown away from outside the front line led, Fair Chance was quickly sent forward to race exposed and proved too tough at the finish, defeating Sir Nippa (one/ three) from inside the second line after gaining a split on turning late, with old timer Johnny Redcoat (gate five) also using the sprint lane off the back of the leader third. The margins 2.2 by 6.7 metres in a mile rate of 1-59.2.

■ Leichardt’s Ben Pell registered a training double after 9Y0 Mach Three-Western Spirit gelding Valiente scored in the 2100 Community Bank Charlton AND District Pace over 2100 metres and 3Y0 The Storm Inside-No Share Left gelding Insider Trading the Cup Eve @ Charlton Trots Pace Final for those that qualified in the heats at Stawell and Maryborough.

Valiente driven by James Herbertson began fast from gate six to lead and rated well, defied all challengers to account for The Sportz Star (gate five) by 4.6 metres which led before electing to take a trail. Wild Bull (four pegs from inside the second line) was third 11.1 metres back. The mile rate 1-55.8.

Insider Trading from the pole followed the pacemaker Aliza Hill Which flew the gate from outside the front line before also using the sprint lane to prevail by a half neck in 1-56.2. Celestial Zodiac (gate three on the second line) ran on out wide from six back in the moving line for third 7.5 metres back.

Double Day

■ Tuesday was double day with Shepparton and Mildura racing at night.

At Shepparton, Wyuna part-owner/trainer James Frost’s 7Y0 Shadow Play-Piece Of My Heart gelding Nivekalon Eagle scored a well deserved victory after some solid performances recently to land the Wager Wednesday SHRC Facebook Page Pace over 1690 metres. Driven by local Tasmyn Potter, Nevekalon Eagle was sent forward from gate five to lead and after dictating terms couldn’t be caught, greeting the judge 2.5 metres in advance of The Villan from the extreme draw off a three wide trail from five back in the moving line following Cresco Threepeat gate three second line (one/three) who held third a nose away. The mile rate 1-59.1. It was the winner’s seventh success in 62 outings.

Harness Racing

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker

■ Kialla trainer/driver Bec Bartley produced a nice type in Thunderfire a Art Major-Aleppo Heiress colt on debut to record an impressive victory in the Neatline Shepparton Pacing Cup 17th January 2026 3Y0 Pace over 1690 metres. Lobbing one/one from gate two on the second line as Colorado Girl (gate six) led, Thunderfire vacated the prime spot to race exposed from the bell and after taking care of the leader approaching the final bend, Thunderfire easily held his rivals at bay to score by 6.2 metres from Eebeebee (one/three – one/ one at bell) and Colorado Girl which was a fighting head back third. The rate 1-56.3. Thunderfire is part-owned by local resident John Hallam.

■ Border hopper Ultimate Gladiator, a former NZ South Islander making his Australian debut made mincemeat of his rivals in the 2190 metre Hygain Pace.

Trained at Leeton by Philip Maguire, the three year old gelded son of Ultimate Machete and Bee Jays Money driven by Mark Pitt led throughout after being tested by Coral Kys (gate six) as the start was effected to record a brilliant 45.5 metre margin in advance of Beryls Boots (three pegs - one/one) from the pole, with first starter Maurlen Compass on debut for Ian Ward (four pegs – one/two – three pegs on turning) from gate three using the sprint lane for third 2.4 metres back. The mile rate 157.9.

■ At Mildura 254 start 11Y0 For A Reason-In The Beginning gelding Budd Sidewinder chalked up his 27th victory by taking the 2190 metre Park Douglas Printing Pace.

Trained and part-owned by Tasmanian Mick Laugher with caretaker driver son Jack in the sulky, Budd Sidewinder led all of the way from the pole, just lasting by a head in a 2-02.1 mile rate from Cheers Poverty (gate four – one/one), with Hesastar (gate three second line) off a three wide trail last lap from mid-field third 3.7 metres away.

■ Former Goulburn Valley 5Y0 Sunshine Beach-Vickymurphy gelding Kialla Kid now with Boris Devcic at Irymple, also led throughout from the pole in the 1790 metre McDonalds Irymple AND Mildura Pace.

Allowed to dictate the terms with no pressure being applied, Kialla Kid ($30.00 fixed and $19.00 parimutual) appreciated the short trip and although appearing to be under pressure coming off the back straight kept giving to prevail by a nose in a tricky finish from Avoca Blues which trailed from inside the second line angling wide on turning. My Ultimate Jimmy (four pegs from the extreme draw) –three pegs on turning was third 5.1 metres back. The mile rate 1-57.8.

Bendigo highlight

■ The usual Bendigo fixture was on Wednesday with a most interesting program- the highlight being the return to the winners list of one of Victoria’s most prominent and successful reinsmen Daryl Douglas who had been forced off the scene for many months due to injury.

Showing he has lost none of his ability, Daryl was victorious aboard 3Y0 A Rocknroll DanceGone Walkabout filly Emily Jazz trained by sister-in-law Julie Douglas in the Gold Central Victoria Pace over 1650 metres. Taken back to the rear from outside the front line as Wheres Wood Wood (gate two) trailing the leader Pappa Leo (gate five) was driven with aggression by Chris Alford to come away from the inside and assume control.

Emily Jazz commenced a forward move three wide racing for the bell to join the pacemaker

and take a narrow lead on the home turn. Tackled strongly by Salsboy (gate four - one/ one) in the straight when switching to the sprint lane on turning, Emily Jazz rallied to gain the day by a neck. Majors Creek (gate six) also switched down to the sprint lane on turning after coming from the tail for third 7.5 metres back. The mile rate 1-57.6.

■ Elmore trainer Keith Cotchin combined with Alby Ashwood aboard 5Y0 Betterthancheddar-Ladu Octavia gelding

Tooram Cee Cee to land the 1650 metre King Of The North @ Llowalong Farms Pace. Going forward three wide from gate three to join the poleline leader Arnies Army, Tooram Cee Cee was to receive cover approaching the bell when Karuma Kev (gate two second line) was set alight with a rush by James Herbertson to race exposed for the final circuit.

Angling three wide on the home turn, Tooram Cee Cee score by a neck in a thrilling finish with six horses crossing the wire almost together in a 1-55.2 mile rate. Karuma Kev was second, with Lenard Ess using sprint lane from four pegs third 1.1 metres back ahead of Sheza Daydreamer, Arnies Army and Michen Roy all close up.

■ Twenty-four-year-old Goulburn Valley based reinswoman Grace Bilney added another victory to her tally of sixteen when successful aboard the Julie Douglas (Strathfieldsaye) trained Owen The Saints in the Happy Birthday Brian Cook Concession Drivers Pace over 1650 metres.

Bred and raced by Swan Hill President Noel Watson, Owen The Saints carrying the St Kilda Football Club colours settled three back in the running line from a solo second line draw as Ears The Boss (gate three) led.

Going forward three wide in the last lap to follow Wow You Can Dance (one/one – three wide last lap) into the final bend, Owen The Saints was too tough at the finish, recording a half head margin in a tricky finish, with Written In Silk (gate four) third 13.4 metres away third. The mile rate 1-56.7.

Ballarat briefs

■ Ballarat raced on Thursday and an impressive winner was lightly raced 4Y0 Fear The Dragon-Miss Trickin Lombo gelding The Steel Dragon in the 1710 metre Interpath Pace for Lexton mentor Ashleigh Herbertson.

Restrained from gate two as Fearless Writer looking for a hat-trick crossed polemarker Captain Wilson, Fearless Writer was taken back to fourth place but uncovered moving closer racing for the bell.

Gaining cover shortly after with the oddson favourite making a rush from the tail to join te leader with a lap to travel. Still in front on turning, Fearless Writer was gathered in over the concluding stages by The Steel Dragon which had eased wide on straightening and was determined to get there and did by a metre from Surfe La Mer (gate sevenone/four) which unleashed a brilliant burst of speed out wide. Wild Bull (gate five – four pegs) used inside runs for third a half head away. The mile rate a slick 1-55.6.

50 years ago

■ Trotting Weekly or National Trotting Weekly as it was later called rolled off the press 50 years ago on October 3, 1975. There were 13 trotting publications at the time, but within a couple of years, there was only one – now there are none except for an online edition of Trotguide produced by the NSW Trotting Club.

New chapter

■ Extremely talented (recently retrenched) Harness Racing Victoria and freelance race caller Luke Humphreys (24) has been given the opportunity of a lifetime by being appointed the official English speaking race caller in South Korea commencing in November.

Luke always had a desire to be a race caller and when a very young age requested his parents to allow him to attend the races and trots to practice calling.

Each day he would watch the meetings on Sky Channel, turning off the sound and call them into a cassette after learning and memorizing the colors.

Finally at the age of 15 the called his first official meeting at an Elmore restricted fixture

Much travelled Luke has:

■ Called overseas races regularly.

■ Called the Elitloppet, most of the main country cups locally and the majority of the main

Sulky Snippets Sulky Snippets

This Week

■ Wednesday – Bendigo, Thursday –Kilmore, Friday – Melton, Saturday – Melton, Sunday – Cranbourne, Monday –Maryborough, Tuesday – Shepparton.

races in South America and Turkey.

■ Called in Australia (Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania) United States of America, United Kingdom, France, Sweden, New Zealand and remotely from Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Turkey.

■ Called at principal harness tracks in Australia (Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia) as well as New Zealand and the principal track in France, Sweden and the United States of America on a regular basis

■ In recent times Luke has called a Hong Kong Jockey Club World Pool meeting on October 18 from Gavea in Brazil which includes South America’s biggest race.

■ Called at The Meadowlands (USA) on a recent holiday.

Best wishes are extended to Luke for a long and successful career overseas.

Len Baker

Latest News Wangaratta man faces Court

■ A Wangaratta man was expected to face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Friday (Oct. 3) for allegedly possessing and soliciting child abuse material from the Philippines via a messaging service.

Australian Border Force members searched the man, 43, when he arrived at Melbourne International Airport on a flight from Croatia via Singapore on September 27.

Officers allegedly located child abuse images on a mobile phone in his possession.

Australian Federal Police Joint AntiChild Exploitation Team members were notified and, on further examination of the phone, allegedly identified messages by the man requesting child abuse material from another user.

The man was arrested and charged with one count of using a carriage service to possess child abuse material; and one count of using a carriage service to solicit child abuse material. Maximum penalty for each offence is 15 years’ imprisonment.

He was released on strict conditional bail to appear before court.

Southern Command JACET members executed a search warrant at the man’s Wangaratta home on October 1 and seized a hard drive and printed images depicting child abuse material.

These will be the subject of further forensic examination.

AFP Detective Sergeant Scott Amjah said anyone asking for child abuse material was committing a serious offence and enabling heinous acts upon children.

“Every online action is traceable, and the AFP works tirelessly to find those in possession of, or soliciting, this kind of material,” Det-Sgt Amjah said.

“If you possess, solicit, share or create child abuse, expect a knock on the door from us and to be put before the courts.”

ABF Acting Superintendent Costas Karatzas said officers would continue to work alongside law enforcement partners to target individuals who attempt to bring child abuse material across Australia’s border.

“Offenders who think they can hide this material from ABF officers should think again. The ABF has zero tolerance for those who exploit children, and we will continue to identify and intercept those engaged in this abhorrent activity,” Acting Superintendent Karatzas said.

■ Alan Rowe was born in Richmond in 1918 and spent his life in showbusiness as an actor, comedian, comedy impressionist, entertainer, and ventriloquist.

In 1939 he enlisted in the army and worked in the area of pay and supplies during the war years.

In 1944 he was appearing on 3UZ in a comedy show ChinsUp with Roy Lyons

This led to regular spots on radio variety productions such as TheShellShowand The RealMcCoys

In 1948 he starred in his own show Streamline broadcast on 3DB. Alan wrote and performed the comedy sketches.

The cast included Penny Lucas, Roy Lyons, Laurie Wilson, George Bellmaine and The Tune twisters.

In 1949 worked on the original television test demonstrations from the Melbourne Town Hall

In 1951 he went to England to try his luck and performed in many famous English theatres including The Windmill Theatre in Soho.

In 1954 he toured with the famous comedy team of Laurel and Hardy in a show titled BirdsofaFeather

Around this time Alan created the character of ‘ Kimbo the Koala’ and developed his ventriloquist act.

He married Jean Vaughan in England and the couple sailed for Australia in 1957.

Television was just beginning and Alan became a regular performer on the children’s shows.

He worked on the TaraxShow on Channel

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Whatever Happened To ... Alan Rowe

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

Nine with Happy Hammond and was cast in the annual pantomime shows with performers such as Joff Ellen, Ron Blaskett, Patti McGrath and Frank Rich

Alan’s dramatic career in television began with an appearance on ConsideryourVerdict.

Over the years he acted in Crawford’s productions, appearing in shows such as Homicide,Ryan,DivisionFour,TheSullivans and MatlockPolice.

He played the ongoing character of Albert James in the series Prisonerand had a role in the feature film Dimboola

He is remembered for his Coles & Garrard television commercial where he played the optician who uttered the catch phrase 'Your glasses won't be a moment, Mrs Jones'.

Alan was a keen railway enthusiast and he released two albums of train sounds which he performed himself.

He wrote plays and monologues which were sold through various outlets including Will Andre in the city.

I first met Alan Rowe through 96.5FM and he was a regular guest on That’s Entertainment. We always looked forward to his appearances.

Alan Rowe passed away in 1997 and I was glad that I made the visit to Geelong Hospital to say a final goodbye to a dear friend.

Kevin

And on 96.5 FM

That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon.

www.innerfm.org.au

YOUNG ARTS PEOPLE CONNECT WITH THEIR PEERS

Hearten Art Prize

In line with Geelong Gallery’s long history of prize exhibits, the Hearten Art Prize celebrates the creative voices of emerging artists in the Geelong region aged between 18 and 30, showcasing their diverse practices and thematic interests.

The prize has been created by the 2025 GG Connected Youth Digital Trainees – a team of two young people working to connect their peers to Geelong Gallery through digital engagement.

The GG Connected project invites local youth to interpret the Geelong Gallery collection and exhibitions program through their own lens and see what the Gallery teams to their generation.

This year, the trainees invited young representatives to respond to the theme inspiration through works submitted to the Hearten Art Prize.

They posed the question: Who or what inspired you, and how has that shaped your practice?

The Hearten Art Prize presents an impressive selection of works across a variety of media, including painting, drawing, mixed media, photography. And textiles.

The artists draw inspiration from the diverse sources such as literature, art history, the natural world, and their own personal experiences and identities.

The shortlisted works were selected based on each artist’s conceptual development, technical application, aesthetic considerations, and engagement with the theme.

The exhibition includes work by Bambie Barry; /beany; Danielle Cook; Your Pal Gerornmey; Billy Mutt; Sarah Porter; Queerly; and Maria Yakimov.

Exhibition closes Monday October 27.

★ re/JOY – Vipoo Srivilasa

Ceramic artist Vipoo Srivilasa’s solo exhibition re/JOY represents his most significant body of work to date, and the largest he has ever attempted.

For this collaborative community project Vipoo has taken seven precious, yet broken, ceramic objects donated by strangers, each with their own story of migration to different parts of Australia

Around these pieces he has built seven towering large-scale works, plus a smaller one in honour of his own story.

Presented as part of Australian De-

The Arts

sign Centre’s 60th anniversary year, re/JOY aims to engage with overseas-born Australians, but anyone will recognise the connections we form with certain items that, far from inanimate, hold special memories that can evoke strong emotions.’

Curated by Lisa Cahil, ADC’s CEO and Artistic Director, and designed by Stephen Goddard, re/JOY captures the diversity of immigration stories and how people build their different lives in Australia

It also looks at the complex feelings and challenges that come with relocating countries and finding a new place to belong, the pain of leaving family and friends, the difficulties of applying to stay.

Above all re/JOY is a joyful, playful and hopeful project - a tapestry of humanity.

Exhibition closes Sunday November 2. Geelong Gallery 69 Little Malop St, Geelong

NGV

Cartier

The largest exhibition of the global jewellery house ever staged in Australia will pen at NGV next June.

The 2026 Melbourne Winter Masterpieces: Cartier exhibition will feature more than 300 works, including precious jewellery, historic gemstones and iconic watches that tell the story of three brothers who made Cartier into a global jewellery house celebrated for its design, craftmanship and innovation.

See these show-stopping jewels including some never displayed in Australia before from the Cartier Collection, together with works lent by museums and collections from across the world

Exhibition opens June 12, 2026 –October 4, 2026.

National Gallery of Victoria

180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

Since 1944

■ The Ferntree Gully Arts Society was formed in 1944 making it the second oldest in Victoria

The aim was to encourage the practice and a recitation of the arts.

Early members described themselves as “a group o of people who meet regularly to draw, paint and yarn together”.

This is very much true today with members attending friendly untutored workshops in painting, life drawing, still life, printing and portraiture.

Courses in pastels, acrylics, oils and drawing are offered on a term basis. Members have the opportunity of entering their work in several exhibitions a year, with awards in watercolour, pastel, and print on offer.

The coveted annual award takes place each October. In past years this was an acquisitive award which ;largely formed the Hut Collection of some 100 works.

The Ferntree Gully Arts Society 157 Underwood Rd. Ferntree Gully - Peter Kemp

Theatre history

■ George Coppin was a powerhouse of early Australian theatre, responsible for much of the popular culture that entertained theatre-going audiences in the second half of the 19th century.

The State Library of Victoria has digitised more than 1200 theatre playbills from our comprehensive Coppin Collection – a highly significant archive of theatrical history.

Journey through stories that shaped the stage in the latest blog. www.slv.vic.gov.au

I could be testing your memory if I asked who was

of Big Brother 17 years ago? To put you out of your agony the answer is Gretel Killeen, who these days is replacing Roger Corser as host of The Traitors, now in its third series. Gretel and crew are currently filming in New Zealand, competing for a prize pool is $250,000 . More details to come.

Still pulling in a crowd

■ As Ambassador of the Global Citizen Festival, Hugh Jackman was front man on stage presenting a galaxy of musicians appealing to the 60,000 followers who filled Central Park, New York. Global Citizen is an organization striving to bring an end to extreme poverty, climate change, and equal access to nutritious food.

Peanuts anniversary

■ Seventy-five years ago, cartoonist Charles Schulz drew a dog, a bird, some kids and called his creation Peanuts. In business terms it was a financial banger and despite Schulz passing in the year 2000 the legend continues with royalties of around $30 million annually. The Peanuts comic strip appears in 2600 newspapers worldwide in 75 countries translated into 21 languages.

Night with Greek goddess

■ 'Up Yourselfness' is the theme of an evening with the ever-hilarious Effie; remember her on ComedyCompany? On October 31,be prepared as Effie walks the talk through political correctness and social landmines. To be shocked and surprised, book at ISCW Functions, Werribee, 9741 125.

● ● ● ●

Alan McCurdy, Alan Rowe and Rob Williams

Alan and Jean had two boys, Victor and Derek and two grandchildren, Daniel and Sarah Alan Rowe brought the gift of laughter into our lives.

Kevin Trask

can be heard on 3AWThe Time Tunnel - Remember WhenSundays at 10.10pm with Simon Owens and Andrew McLaren

Big Brother flashback

with Peter Kemp

■

the presenter

● ● Gretel Killeen

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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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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

ANTIQUE DRSSING TABLE. 3 mirrors, size: wdith 1.23m, depth 55cm, height 1.82m. Delivery arranged. VGC. $250. Coburg. 0428 130 049. Z-CC

BARBECUE. Weber. With instruction book. Hardly used. New: $369. Sell $1009. Mt Martha 5973 4163. JJ-NN

BATHROOM TILES. To cover 270sq m. EC. $60. Ferntree Gully. 9758 3950. HH-LL

BED. 3-seater and two seater. Red, vinyl. Dark wood trims. VGC. $300. Cranbourne, 0401 898 413. HH-LL

BED HEAD. Wooden. And base. With slats. As new. $80. Whittlesea. 0494 380 264. Z-CC

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

BIRD CAGE. Green. 52cm square. as new. $40. Whittlesea. 0494 380 264. Z-CC

BOAT. Savage 12’. 15HP Johnson OB. Trailer. All Safety EQ. Bow canopy. Storm cover. VGC. $1800. Alexandra. 0419 329 264. Z-CC

BOOSTER SEAT. Mothers hoice. Convertible. 6 months to 8 years. VGC. $40. Whittlesea. 0494 380 264. HH-LL

BRICKS. 100+. Clean, red. Plus halves. $50. Keon Park. 9469 4558. HH-LL

CARAVAN. 21’6” 2014 Crusader. Reg till Feb. 2026. Full ensuite, separate shower/toilet, queen bed, a/c heater, TV radio, Gas/Elec. cooktop, micro washing machine, solar panel, large fridge, freezer, new tyres and batteries. many extras. EC. $40,000 ONO. Mount Eliza. 0429 877 964. Z-CC

CARAVAN. 2021. 16ft. Aspire caravan. As new. Air cond. heating, full annexe, double bed, shower toilet, solar panel, TV, tare 1275 kg. Easy ti tow. Light weight EC. $42,000 neg. Whittlesea. 0438 434 413. HH-LL

CARAVAN. Jayco. 2004. Freedom. Single beds, RC/ AC, new tyres, unused porta-potti, m’wave, 3-way fridge, gas & elec. cooktop + grill, 240/12 volt TV and aerial. Reg till Jan 2026. Everything in working order. 1150 kg. Tows great. VGC. $12,500 ONO. Hastings. 0409 645 059. HH-LL

CHAIR. Pink, small, white spots. Suit girl . VGC. $15. Surrey Hills. 0410 626 110, after 5pm best. HH-LL

CHEST FREEZER. Haier. Three months old. $150. Reservoir. 0491 083 248. NN-QQ

CHILD’S Old Style TwoSeater School Desk. Steel frame, hardwood seat and desktop GC. $40. Yea. 0409 109 887. NN-QQ

CIRCULATION STIMULATOR. Clare. VGC. $20. Frankston. 9789 9634 Z-CC

CLARE Wellness Circulation Stimulator. Instruction Manual included. VGC. $150. Frankston. 9789 9634. HH-LL

CLOTH FOOTBALL MASCOT. Footscray Bulldogs. 39cm tall. VGC. $65. Pick-up: Glenroy. 9306 7628 LL-OO

• Any person or business advertising to sell or give away a dog, cat, puppy or kitten in Victoria must be enrolled on the Pet Exchange Register to obtain a source number, and must include this source number along with each animal's microchip number in all advertisements.

• Advertisers should be honest in their dealings. Claims should be true, accurate and based on reasonable grounds.

BOOKS. Large variety. Various authors. $2, or 3 for $5. Heathmont. 0423 720 137. HH-LL

BOOKS. Collection of Mary Grant vintage books. Mostly VGC with dust jack- ets. Offers welcome. Research. 9437 1253. JJ-NN

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

DINING SETTING. Midcentury teak. Extension table and 8 chairs. newly upholstered about 6 years ago. EC. Some minoir surface wear. Very heavy table. 6ft, extends to 9ft 4in. VGC. $2100. Donvale. 0410 031 094. JJ-NN 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

ELECTRIC WHEELCHAIR. ‘Pride Go Mobility Chair’. Hardly used. EC. $1400. Viewbank. John, 0418 583 120. LL-OO

ENCYCLOPEDIA. Complete set A-Z. GC. $60 ONO. Frankston. 9789 9634. HH-LL

FISHER PAYKEL Fridge Freezer. 8 months old. New. Cost $870, sell $400. Keysborough. Joe, 0402 385 692.HH-LL

FOOTBALL CAPS. Footscray. New. Pick up Glenroy or ost extra cost. $15 each. Glenroy. 9306 7628 LL-OO

FOOTWEAR. Navy woven leather. Diana ferrari. Sandal size 9, worn once. EC. $50. Ferntree Gully. 9758 3950.HH-LL

GARDEN HOSE. 30 metres long. Heavy duty. Good quality, bought at Bunnings. $30. Mt Martha 5973 4163. JJ-NN

GOLF CLUBS. Gents (13), Ladies (13).. And 200+ balls. GC. $400. Doncaster. 0409 414 417. NN-QQ

GUITAR. Lindsay. Valued at $1000. Can’t play it. Dandebnong North. 9794 6996. HH-LL

GUITAR AMP. 2’ wide. 2½’ high. Lots of dials. GC. $00. Seymour. 0422 204 977.HH-LL

HEATER. Dimplex. Electric. Portable 7 vane. $90. Frankston. 9789 9634. HH-LL

LAURA ASHLEY Cotton Queen Coverlet set. Size 220cm x 240cm, plus 2 pillowcases. Pale blue with thin white stripes. Never used. EC. $25. Ashburton. 9885 2203. Z-CC

LAWN MOWER. Ozito. Corded. With catcher. lightweight. Paid $149 at Bunnings. Sell $60. Mt Martha 5973 4163. JJ-NN

LINE TRIMMER. Electric. 500 watts. 290mm cut. Little used. GC. Purchase to collect. $10. Doreen. 9717 3465 HH-LL

LOUNGE SUITE. 3 piece. Luxury, light cream leather. Moran pillow type. EC, not used. $4000 (cost $6000). Strathmore. 0419 384 496. JJ-NN

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

COROLLA. Manual.

TWO-PERSON SAW. $90. Mill Park. 9436 8935.HH-LL

WHEELBARROW. $75. Mill

9436 8935. HH-LL

WORKSHOP MANUALS.

RECORDS. 33rpm. Casslical singers. OPaul Robeson, Mobncrieff, Kiri Te Kanwa, Peter awson, Pavarotti, Secombe, Caruso, Peerse, lawrence, Hammond, Bronhill, Sutherland. GC. Various prices. Box Hill South. 9890 7904. HH-LL

RECORD PLAYER. Radiogram, $25. VGC. Mill Park. 9436 8935. HH-LL

REFERENCE BOOK. Holden Commodore 1978. 42cm x 29cm. $85. Glenroy. 9306 7628 LL-OO

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

ROTARY CLOTHES LINE. Mk 2. Cost, $349. Sell $140. Doncaster. 0409 414 417. NN-QQ

To lodge your free For Sale ad: www. AdvertiseFree. com.au

COUNTRY MUSIC. 33rpm. Slim Dustry, Reg Lindsay, Hank Snow, glen Campbell, Sons of the Pioneers, Tex morton, Buddy Willkiams, Hank Williams, Hawking Bros., The Overlanders, The Folk Singer. GC. Various prices. Box Hill South. 9890 7904. HH-LL

HEDGE TRIMMER. Honda. HHH25D. 4 stroke. With hour meter fitted. VGC. Bought in Feb. 2022. Has done 20.8 hours. $650 ONO. Pearcedale. 0418 457 588. Z-CC

JAYCO 2004 Freedom Caravan, single beds, RC/ AC, new tyres, unused porta potti, m’wave, 3 way bridge, gas & elec. cooktop and grill, 240/12 volt TV. Aerial. Reg till Jan. 26. Everything in working order. 1150kg. Tows great. VGTC. Hastings. 0409 645 059. Z-CC

for Ford AUIIV8. Secondhand. Struts. New parts: ball joints, 2 boxes of

SAWS. 5 vintage saws for woodwork. FC. $12. Also frame for manual sharpening, GC. $8. Ashburton. 9885 2203. HH-LL

VGC. $1000.

0419 881 573. N-Q

PIANOLA ROLLS. Around 50 rolls in all. Many older tunes. GC. $75. Malvern East. 0419 685 666. LL-OO

PICTURE FRAMES.

PHOTO COPIER. $100. Dandebnong North,. 9794 6996. HH-LL

PLUMBING FITTINGS. New. Box, 100m, sew/SW E/Boxes. Box: 100mm, 500mm, elbows, as new. New. $35. yea. 5750 2615. HH-LL

SCOOTER. Pegasus. Pro. 4 years old. Done 30km only. Like new. $4000 ONO. Melton. 0488 007 395. HH-LL

SEWING MACHINE. Singer. Wrought iron. With marble top. Suit garden setting. Black, needs painting,. VGC, $25. Surrey Hills. 0410 626 110, after 5pm best. HH-LL

STAMP PACKS. New, unopened, from 1970s, 80s. Approx. 200, sell for face value. New. Mill Park. 9436 8935. HH-LL

HEATER. Wood. With flue. Warmbrite. GC. $500. Seymour. 0422 204 977. HH-LL 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

Old, child’s col- lectable. GC. $60. Wandong. 041`8 399 261. R-U

PRESSURE WASHER. Karcher. Good working order. little used, complete with operating instructions. Purchaser to collect. GC. $55. Doreen. 9717 3485. HH-LL

TRANIST WHEELCHAIR with seatbelt, footrest and armrests. Lightweight. Cost $279, sell $70. Whittlesea. 0494 380 264.HH-LL STROLLER. City aselkect by Baby Jogger. VGC. $60. Whittlesea. 0494 30 264. HH-LL

Bank Money Boxes. GC. Price negotiable. Will alsoswap. Mill Park. 9436 8935. HH-LL

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

ANZ

TOYOTA

Roacdworthy condition. VG motor, gear box. Dark blue. RXJ-289. GC. $2000. Box Hill North. 0449 836 907. HH-LL WOOD HEATER. Cast iron. GC. $500. Seymour. 0422 204 977. Z-CC

Holden VR Commodore. Vol 8, 4 and 5,. $220. Kangaroo Groundf. 9712 0337. Z-CC

Park.

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION DETAILS

Application reference number: P24/2068

Applicant name: KS INVESTMENTS CO NO. 2 PTY LTD

The Land affected by this application is located at: 20 AND 22 LEYDEN AVENUE PORTSEA

LOT 1 & 2

PS 638295 VOL 11561 FOL 345 & VOL 11561 FOL 346

The application is for a permit to: DEVELOPMENT OF DWELLING, VEGETATION REMOVAL, USE AND DEVELOPMENT OF PRIVATE TENNIS COURT. VARY THE FOLLOWING RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS:

- 2297215, 2319752 AND 2370984, AS AMENDED BY VARIATION NO. AD675944A BY THE FOLLOWING: AFTER THE CURRENT WORDS: “AND EXCEPT THAT NOTHING HEREIN SHALL PREVENT THE USE AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE LAND CONTAINED IN CERTIFICATE OF TITLE VOLUME 08583 FOLIO 689, BEING LOTS 3 AND 4 ON PLAN OF SUBDIVISION 052729, FOR THE PURPOSE OF FOUR SINGLE STOREY DWELLINGS, TENNIS COURT, SWIMMING POOL AND OUTBUILDINGS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH A PLANNING PERMIT ISSUED BY MORNINGTON PENINSULA SHIRE COUNCIL IN APPLICATION NO. CP02/004.” THE PROPOSED VARIATION IS TO INSERT THE FOLLOWING WORDS:

“AND, NOTING THAT PLANNING PERMIT CP02/004 HAS EXPIRED AND NO LONGER AUTHORISES THE USE AND DEVELOPMENT DESCRIBED IN THE PROVISION ADDED BY VARIATION OF COVENANT AD675944A, NOTHING HEREIN SHALL PREVENT THE USE AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE LAND CONTAINED IN CERTIFICATES OF TITLE VOLUME 11561 FOLIOS 345 AND 346, BEING LOTS 1 AND 2 ON PLAN OF SUBDIVISION 638295, FOR THE PURPOSE OF THREE DWELLINGS, TENNIS COURTS, SWIMMING POOLS AND OUTBUILDINGS.”

PLANNING SCHEME CLAUSE

A permit is required under the following clauses of the planning scheme: MATTER FOR WHICH A PERMIT IS REQUIRED

Clause 42.02-2 (VPO1) Remove, destroy or lop any vegetation specified in the schedule to the overlay.

Clause 43.02-2 (DDO2) Construct a building or construct or carry out works(Dwelling)

Clause 52.02 Create, vary or remove an easement or restriction under Section 23 of the Subdivision Act 1988.

Clause 52.21-2 Construct, use or illuminate a private tennis court.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 20 OCTOBER 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

CLAIM: EXECUTOR / TRUSTEE FOR THE ESTATE Mel Pavilach, Mia Papas, and Mark Tucker are witness to the 4 Public Notices for Living Soul Maurice-paul of the House Lepore {and/or any name derivation}, being Executor of the Aquilla Project Trust {RR075 & RR075A}.

Notice: To any ens legis, being the occupant of any office, that may believe they have any authority, claim, or interest in said Estate, Trust property, or any alleged Powers of Attorney or Guardianship: The Estate and Trust documents are unrebutted; The record now stands perfected. Documents to view/rebut at Public Notices: https://www.thecommonwealthofaustralia.com.au/ public-notices/view-all-public-notices/

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION DETAILS

Application reference number: P25/1348

Applicant name: MELINDA ZACHARCHUK

The Land affected by this application is located at: 26 LAHINCH DRIVE FINGAL LOT 26 PS 438599 VOL 10627 FOL 245

The application is for a permit to: VARIATION OF RESTRICTION ON TITLE -TO VARY THE SHAPE OF THE BUILDING ENVELOPE ON LOT 26 AS SHOWN ON PS 438599N EDITION 29 (TO INCLUDE POOL)

PLANNING SCHEME CLAUSE

MATTER FOR WHICH A PERMIT IS REQUIRED

Clause 52.02 A PERMIT IS REQUIRED BEFORE A PERSON PROCEEDS UNDER SECTION 23 OF THE SUBDIVISION ACT 1988 TO CREATE, VARY OR REMOVE AN EASEMENT OR RESTRICTION

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 20 OCTOBER 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

PUBLIC NOTICES

I, Dongyue Xia, applied to Liquor Control Victoria on 7 August 2025 for the grant of a packaged liquor licence at 16-18 Newcomen Road, Springvale 3171.

Any person may object to the grant of this application on the grounds that: - it would detract from, or be detrimental to, the amenity of the area in which the premises are situated, and/or - it would be conducive to or encourage the misuse or abuse of alcohol.

An objection must state the reasons for the objection.

All objections are treated as public documents. Objections must be made in writing to:

Liquor Control Victoria PO Box 1019

Richmond VIC 3121

Objections must be made no later than 30 days after the date of this notice

I, Kuan-Lin Chen, applied to Liquor Control Victoria on 16 August 2025 for the grant of a packaged liquor licence at A7 2A Westall Road, Springvale 3171.

Any person may object to the grant of this application on the grounds that: -it would detract from, or be detrimental to, the amenity of the area in which the premises are situated, and/or - it would be conducive to or encourage the misuse or abuse of alcohol.

An objection must state the reasons for the objection.

All objections are treated as public documents. Objections must be made in writing to:

Liquor Control Victoria PO Box 1019

Richmond VIC 3121

Objections must be made no later than 30 days after the date of this notice

The Local Paper

CONTACT US

Phones: 1800 231 311, Email: editor@ LocalPaper.com.au BOOKING AND COPY DEADLINE: 5pm Fridays, prior to Wednesday issue.

CLASSIFIED ADS

Classified ads are available each fortnight in The Local Paper, which is published on Wednesdays, February-December (with the exception of Easter Wednesday).

SECTION 7 - NEWSPAPER OR SOCIAL MEDIA NOTICE PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT 290-332 BANYULE RD, VIEWBANK VIC 3084 (RFNSA 3084020)

1. Telstra is proposing to upgrade an existing mobile phone base station at 290-332 Banyule Rd, Viewbank VIC 3084.

2. The proposed upgrade will consist of the removal of three existing antennas, installation of six panel antennas, reconfiguring of six panel antennas and ancillary works such as GPS antenna, feeders cables and works within the existing 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 Jordan Leverington, Service Stream, 0458 011 882, Jordan.Leverington@servicestream.com.au, or Level 3, 821 Pacific Highway, Chatswood, NSW 2067 by 5pm Thursday 16/10/2025.

For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visit www.rfnsa.com.au/3084020.

Service Stream ABN: 46 072 369 870 Telstra ACN: 086 174 781

Battery cause

■ Fire Rescue Victoria, supported by Country Fire Authority, responded at 11.10pm on Saturday (Oct. 4), after a caller to Triple Zero (000) reported a garage fire at Henry St, Eltham. Firefighters arrived on scene within four minutes to find the garage (5m x 8m) and the adjoining house (10m x 20m) well involved in fire.

A family of four were woken up by smoke alarms sounding and small explosions coming from the garage.

They safely self-evacuated with their pet cat.

The fire was caused by lithium-ion batteries on charge in the garage.

The fire took approximately 90 minutes to bring under control.

The garage, including four cars, was destroyed. Most of the house was extensively damaged by fire.

The family sourced alternative accommodation.

FRV and CFA Firefighters were to remaining on scene throughout the morning to overhaul and continue to extinguish hotspots.

Seniors’ Fest

■ The Victorian Seniors Festival has kicked off, with a month-long program of music, theatre, exhibitions and community activities celebrating older Victorians throughout October.

Ingrid Stitt, Minister for Ageing, joined thousands of festivalgoers at Federation Square for Celebration Day – officially launching this year’s Festival and transforming the precinct into a hub of culture and connection.

Celebration Day featured seven hours of free entertainment across three stages with activities ranging from calming tai chi and information stalls to lively line dancing and classic 60s hits.

Highlights included a 60-strong dance performance by the Chinese Senior Citizens Club of Manningham , the Australian Women’s Choir at The Edge Theatre, a ukulele workshop led by AJ Leonard and a mass ukulele performance.

The main stage came alive with 10-piece band Groove Dimension getting crowds dancing to hits from Earth, Wind & Fire, KC & The Sunshine Band and The Jacksons Visitors also enjoyed hands-on workshops and dynamic performances from talented local artists.

Across Victoria, more than 2000 free and low-cost events are taking place in all 79 municipalities throughout October.

The program includes over 20 Country Concerts bringing live entertainment to regional towns such as Bendigo, Wodonga, Castlemaine, Sale and Horsham. Melbourne hosts exhibitions, dances, sporting activities, film festivals, and more.

A variety of multicultural and First Nations events will also take place, including a Diwali celebration in Hawthorn, a Seniors Yarn at Gateway Island and a vibrant culinary adventure in St Albans Victorian Seniors Card holders can enjoy eight days of free public transport between October 5-12, making it easier to explore the Victorian Seniors Festival.

Free travel is available across all metropolitan services, V/Line train and coach services, and selected regional bus routes outside the myki-enabled area.

“We are proud to deliver this Festival as a month-long celebration of the valuable contributions senior Victorians make to our state,” said Ms Stitt.

“I encourage seniors everywhere to take advantage of the free travel to meet with friends, try something new and discover all that the Seniors’ Festival has to offer.”

Stone Soup

■ The University of Melbourne’s Buxton Contemporary has announced Hany Armanious: Stone Soup, a major solo exhibition presented in partnership with the Henry Moore Institute, United Kingdom.

Opening November 21 and running until April 11, 2026, the exhibition will showcase more than 80 works, including a significant new commission.

This exhibition is part of a series at Buxton Contemporary that focuses on artists from the Buxton Collection and follows the 2024 presentation of StoneSoupat the Henry Moore Institute in Leeds

The Melbourne exhibition is guest curated by Laurence Sillars, Head of the Henry Moore Institute.