The Local Paper. Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express Edition. Wed., Sep. 17, 2025

COST SHIFTING HITS YARRA RANGES CL.

Overgrown berries: road safety worry

■ Yarra Ranges Shire and nearby Councils are suffering from ‘cost shifting’ - where where other levels of Government move services to Councils without adequate funding.

Yarra Ranges Shire CEO Tammi Rose attended a conference with other Council CEOs, Mayors and representatives from the State Government, where the subject was raised as a widespread issue.

Representatives from Outer Melbourne Councils and community groups met to discuss pressing issues for communities in Victoria with the State Government.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Jim Child, presented at a Community Growth and Infrastructure Forum and a Road, Transport and Connectivity Forum with other community leaders.

Ms Rose also spoke at an event at with other OMC Council CEOs and Mayors that was focused on issues impacting financial sustainability.

All forums were attended by representatives of both the State Government and the Opposition, in an early opportunity for the Council to highlight community needs in Yarra Ranges ahead of the November 2026 State Election Cr Child spoke on the importance of infrastructure renewal for locals and visitors alike, and ongoing funding support from the State Government

“We have more than $1.5 billion worth of assets over 55 townships, and they’re rapidly ageing,” he said.

PARKING CHANGES AT MOUNT EVELYN

■ Yarra Ranges Council is reviewing parking restrictions at Mount Evelyn to improve safety and ensure appropriate time restrictions work with local businesses and the community.

Billanook Ward Councillor, Tim Heenan, said the Mount Evelyn review followed the implementation of the Lilydale Parking Plan

“The thing about parking restrictions is that they very rarely change once they’re set – even though the needs of the community evolve over time,” Cr Heenan said.

“In Lilydale, we heard loud and clear from the community that parking restrictions in the main parts of town weren’t working as they should, so we developed a plan and altered restrictions in key areas to encourage traffic flow and turnover, but also allow people to park and use businesses as they wanted.

“We had great feedback during the process and the end result is better parking for everyone

“We’re now starting this process in Mount Evelyn, and we want to hear from you.

“Tell us how you use public parking spaces in Mount Evelyn, and how you’d like to use it –do you wish there were longer times outside of your favourite cafe or hairdresser?

“Would you like to see restrictions near the pump track, to help ensure everyone can get a park when they need it?

“There are no wrong answers, and this will all help us make sure that parking in town fits the needs of residents and visitors going forward,” Cr Heenan said.

Engagement closes September 30.

■ Croydon MLA David Hodgett has asked Roads Minister Melissa Horne to ask the Department of Transport and Planning to urgently clear the overgrown blackberry bushes that are overhanging the footpath on the pedestrian refuge at the corner of Mount Dandenong Rd and Wicklow Avenue in Croydon

“This is not a new issue. My office wrote to VicRoads a couple of years ago requesting this area be cleaned up, and yet despite the passage of time and the growing concern from residents, the problem remains unresolved.

“This pedestrian refuge is heavily used, not only by general foot traffic but also by senior residents from the nearby retirement village on Wicklow Avenue

“These residents have expressed their concern about the overgrown blackberries, which pose a physical hazard.

“They are worried about being scratched or injured while simply trying to cross the road safely. Indeed, this is one of many areas around the electorate that is under the responsibility of the Department of Transport and Planning and VicRoads that is unkept or unmaintained.”

Roadside dumping disgrace: McLeish

■ Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish says dumping of rubbish on Yarra Valley and Murrindindi roadsides is a disgrace.

“This needs to be an ongoing effort to clean up our roadsides,” Ms McLeish told Roads Minister Melissa Horne.

“It is bad enough that we have animal carcases from roadkill everywhere, but now we have got rubbish as well littering the roadsides. The tip costs are so expensive.

“People tend to dump building materials, rubble and bags of rubbish or just unload a tip.

“You will see piles of rubbish. Someone has backed up a trailer, boom, tipped it out, and there you go.

“The Yarra Valley farmland in Murrindind i and snowfields around Mansfield – people go to these spots, and they just do not want to see rubbish dumped,” Ms McLeish said.

● ● ● ● Tammi Rose, Shire CEO

● ● ● ● David Hodgett, Croydon MLA

The Local Paper

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17,

AGAINST PUBLIC’S WISHES

Local Briefs

Nominations open

■ Nominations are now open for the 2026 Mitchell Shire Australia Day Community Awards.

Anyone can nominate an individual or group in the seven categories of:

■ Citizen of the Year

■ Young Citizen of the Year

■ Community Event of the Year

■ Community Group of the Year

■ Access and Inclusion

■ Sports Person of the Year

■ Arts Person of the Year

Nomination close 9am Friday, November 7.

Free pads,tampons

■ Free pads and tampons are now available from vending machines at the Kinglake and Yea Library and Customer Service Centres

This is part of Victoria’s $23 million commitment to provide free pads and tampons in public places, now rolling out statewide. The program aims to make period products more accessible when and where they are needed.

Following a successful first phase – with over 25,000 products dispensed across metropolitan Melbourne – vending machines are now being installed in libraries, customer service centres, and major sports facilities across the state.

Vegetation goes

■ Mitchell Council will soon carry out vegetation removal and planting at the southern entrance to Kilmore (Northern Highway from Wallan).

The works are planned to start in midSeptember (weather permitting) and are expected to take about two days to complete. Traffic management will be in place while the works are underway with minor delays expected.

“This is part of Council’s ongoing investment in our parks and gardens, with more than $3.7 million allocated in the 2025-26 budget to maintain and improve parks, gardens, playgrounds and sports fields across Mitchell Shire,” a Council representative said.

■ State Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny has approved the Beveridge North West Precinct Structure Plan against the wishes of the local community, Northern Metropolitan MLC Evan Mulholland told State Parliament last week

Mr Mulholland said the public are dismayed at the approval of a quarry “right in the middle of a growth area”.

“I think the community are right to express their frustration to me. They are right to express their frustration very vocally to the absent member for Kalkallo, who has failed to advocate for her community,” Mr Mulholland said

“The member for Preston seems to be able to get changes to the Minister for Planning’s directions and her planning schemes, but the member for Kalkallo cannot.

“One thing that has angered my community is the lack of money for infrastructure in the Beveridge North West PSP

“We all support more housing, particularly more housing in the north. But let me break down what the government has approved.

“Between Beveridge and Wallan the State Government has approved 15,000 more homes. That is 50,000 people.

“If you look at the statistics, that is 100,000 more cars onto the Hume – because it will be the only way in and out of this estate – with absolutely zero dollars more for infrastructure.

“There is no additional money for infrastructure as part of this approval. There is no new Beveridge Station. There is no new train electrification past Craigieburn

“Two new stations were promised and then electrification to Wallan, but that is not on the table.

“There is no funding for an outer metropolitan ring-road, which would ease the traffic congestion.

“There is no funding for schools and for hospitals.

“I saw the Minister for Planning out there on the day saying, ‘We’ve listened and we’re going to deliver this PSP in a new way,’ but there is no evidence of that.

“The minister only needs to look at their botched delivery of growth areas in Kalkallo and Beveridge

“In Beveridge it takes 45 minutes for people to get off Lithgow St onto the Hume. In Kalkallo it takes about an hour for people just to get onto Donnybrook Rd to get out of their estate.

“There is no better example than Donnybrook Rd when highlighting the government’s inability to plan for growth.

“It was the Liberals who duplicated the Mickleham side of Donnybrook Rd because we

signed developer contribution agreements to build infrastructure as people were moving in.

“On the Kalkallo and Donnybrook side it is still an old farm track with a single-lane bridge over the Hume

“The action I seek of the minister is to come out to the outer north with me at peak hour and watch the traffic bank up from 2.30 in the afternoon on the Hume around the Donnybrook Rd exit.

“She could admire the $500 million white elephant in the quarantine facility, and she can come out with me and actually look at this and fund infrastructure when she is approving new housing in the north,” Mr Mulholland said

Views on parking

■ Mansfield Council is calling for community feedback as part of a new study into parking in Mansfield township.

The study aims to assess existing parking conditions and identify how parking could be improved.

Mansfield Council has been surveying specific areas , focusing on commercial zones near High St and Highett St and several residential streets near Mansfield Primary School.

Local people are being asked to suggest locations anywhere in Mansfield where they feel there are issues or opportunities to improve.

Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said that gaining a better picture of Mansfield’s parking needs would allow Council to develop tailored solutions.

“We know that many of our community members are concerned about parking pressure in Mansfield,” he said.

Share your ideas

■ Nillumbik Council’s Community Engagement Policy guides the process on involving the community in planning and decision-making.

Nillumbik Mayor Cr John Dumaresq said community input is essential to shaping a policy that works for everyone.

“We want to listen to our community in what engagement works best, whether that is surveys, workshops, pop-up events, or something new altogether,” Cr Dumaresq said.

● ● Evan Muholland MLC

● ● ● ● Sonya Kilkenny, Planning Minister

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Ash on Wednesday

Mayor’s 50-hour working week

■ Cr Martin Taylor offered a number of statistics at the latest Whittlesea Council meeting to explain how he is working 50hour weeks as Mayor.

“As Mayor my activity and engagement report consist of the following:

■ 201 hours (average 50.25 hours per week).

■ 459 emails received and responded to.

■ 35 CRMs lodged and recorded.

■ 18 CRMs investigated and closed.

■ 12 Counci l meetings, briefings, committee meetings and external stakeholder meetings.

■ 7 community engagement meetings attended.

■ 8 formal Council meetings, for which committees I have been placed on by Council,

• Outer Melbourne Councils Committee.

• Northern Councils Alliance Committee.

• Yarra Plenty Regional Library Board

• Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee.

• City of Whittlesea Business Advisory Panel.

• Audit and Risk Committee.

• CEO Employment Matters Advisory Committee

• Hearing of Submissions Committee

■ 163 telephone calls made and received.

■ 287 kms travelled in performance of Mayoral duties and events.

■ 22 events attended, most of which I have had the privilege of attending with my fellow colleague Councillors.

“Some of the more notable ones were:

■ Epping Scout Group Awards Night.

■ Community Plan Pop Up, Lalor Library.

■ Community Bus Tour with Positive Aging.

■ BlueFit Swimming

Long Shots

“For

www.LocalPaper.com.au

www.AshLong.com.au

Grand Reopening, South Morang.

Cr Taylor acknowledged Cr Stevan Kozmevski’s efforts and long service with Council .

“He will be sadly missed as a significant contributor to this Council

“I also welcome onboard Cr Labrador and I look forward to, as we all do, working with him.

“As the Mayor, I’m extremely privileged every day and excited to see the significant work that Councillors do within this Council, and I commend you all for the hard work that you do,” Cr Taylor said.

Million dollar website

■ Nillumbik Council has agreed to a tender submitted by Granicus Australia for the sum of $1,047,138.75 (inclusive of GST) for the rovision of public facing website services from 2026 to 2031. A two-year term extension of the contract is an option.

The Council’s Director Governance, Communications and Community Safety has been authorised to finalise and execute the contract documentation.

Hall upgrade

■ Lalor’s French St Hall has undergone a series of upgrades.

The kitchen has been enlarged to make it fully accessible for people with a disability, and a new kitchenette provides visitors with easy access to tea and coffee, said a report to Whittlesea Council. ● The next print

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

Cartoonist

Kemp, Art Rob Foenander, Music

● ● Cr Martin Taylor, Mayor

CORRUPTION ALLEGATIONS

■ Northern Victoria MLC Jaclyn Symes has urged anyone with information about corruption allegations about North-East Link employment practices, to take them to authorities.

Evan Mulholland, Northern Metropolitan MLC, last week told Parliament: “My question is to the Minister for Industrial Relations, and it concerns the shocking allegations in TheAge today that a military veteran helping ex-soldiers to get jobs on the North East Link was forced to pay a gangland-linked figure in order to gain access through the government’s social procurement program.

“Given the government’s response to date has failed, will the government take further action to stamp out this sickening fleecing of taxpayers money and gangland involvement on Victorian construction sites?”

Northern Victoria MLC Jaclyn Symes said: “I thank Mr Mulholland for his question. At the outset, we have zero tolerance for any corruption, any illegal activities and indeed any threatening behaviour on our worksites or any worksite for that matter.

“Mr Mulholland, you might not be familiar with this, because you have had some time away from the chamber, but in your absence we have passed legislation to implement some of the Wilson recommendations.

“So we are getting on with eradicating this type of behaviour. We are setting up an easy way for people to come forward, and anybody that wants to come forward I commend.

“This is the behaviour that you want to stamp out. You want people to come forward, whether it is through the media or whether it is through the opportunity that we have created through the WIV to provide a safe place for people to come forward.

“They can do it anonymously and it can be directed to the right authorities, and in many instances that will be Victoria Police.”

Mr Mulholland: “Minister, do you accept that extortion, fleecing of taxpayers money and gangland involvement are still occurring on the government’s Big Build?” Ms Symes: “Mr Mulholland, you or anybody who has information or allegations that they wish to make should make them either through the WIV or to the appropriate authorities.

“In relation to the way you characterised that, much of that would be illegal behaviour, and therefore police would be the appropriate body.”

Cheaper batteries powering McEwen

■ The Albanese Federal Government’s Cheaper Home Batteries program hit 50,000 batteries installed in homes, businesses and community groups across Australia last weekend, including 261 in communities across McEwen. Federal Member for McEwen, Rob Mitchell said the milestone shows Australians are embracing clean energy and getting on with the job of lowering bills and emissions.

“Australians know that batteries mean cheaper, cleaner, more reliable energy. In just over two months since July 1, 50,000 batteries have been installed, that is thousands of households, small businesses and community groups taking control of their energy and bills,” Mr Mitchell said.

COLDSTREAM ROAD FIX NEEDED

■ Coldstream residents are still waiting for Killara Rd and Maroondah Hwy to be upgraded, Evelyn MLA Bridget Vallence has told State Pafrliament.

“This is a vital road safety project for my community – indeed the entire Yarra Valley region – to duplicate Maroondah Highway, Coldstream, and make that dangerous intersection at Killara Rd safer with traffic lights,” Ms Vallence said.

“For around nine years I have been campaigning together with the community for this road project, and I will not ever stop doing so.

“The Victorian Liberals pledged traffic lights and worked with the former Federal MP Tony Smith to secure $20 million in funding back in 2019 dedicated to this exact road project.

“So for six years the Andrews and Allan Labor Government have sat on this funding, and frankly the excuse they have been peddling for years now, that it is still in the planning phase, is just utterly ridiculous.

“Coldstream, Yering and Gruyere residents, the Coldstream CFA and Gruyere CFA, fire brigades and local traders – in fact, people right across the Yarra Valley – deserve certainty from the Victorian Government and its Department of Transport and Planning about the longawaited Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream, project and when it will finally emerge from that protracted planning phase into actual works to get this vital road safety project done.

“So the matter I raise is for the Minister for Roads and Road Safety [Melissa Horne], and the action I seek is for the minister to inform me of the date on which the project scope and construction schedule will be made public for my community, noting this was promised by the minister for the 2025 calendar year – that is right.

“On the parliamentary record, in response to me raising this issue last year in adjournment matter number 955, the minister stated that the government’s transport department was reviewing designs and promised that the project scope, updated construction schedule and temporary road work impacts would be shared with the community in 2025.

“There are only three and a half months left in 2025. There is still no timeframe and construction schedule confirmed – it is a disgrace – despite Commonwealth funding being handed over six years ago.

“My community is desperate for information about the project – whether it has been approved for the works to start, whether there has been a tender done, whether there has been a contractor appointed, when community consultation will occur and basically when the Maroondah Highway, Coldstream, project will just be done.

“Ultimately, what our community demands is for the road project to actually be delivered and for it to be upgraded without further delay.

“Again, dare I say, it is only a Victorian Liberal Government that will deliver this road project for Coldstream, and I invite the Labor Government to prove me wrong on that. I will never give up campaigning for the Maroondah Hwy and Killara Rd, Coldstream, road safety project to be done,” Ms Vallence said.

Ranges burglaries up 177 per cent

■ Aggravated burglary is up a staggering 177 per cent in the Yarra Ranges, Evelyn MLA Bridget Vallence told Parliament last week.

“These are people in their own homes in Lilydale, in Mooroolbark, in Chirnside Park who are being terrorised – terrorised in their own homes, on their private property.

“These are the matters that are important to Victorians right now, and it is precisely why we should be adjourning debate.

“And I know that these are the matters that the opposition has been leading on. We are here because we want to give voice to the victims of crime.

“We were actually raising the serious matters of a 50-odd-year-old woman who had been carjacked violently and of a 12-year-old who had been hacked to death by a machete.

“These are terrible, terrible circumstances on the streets of Victoria , and yet all Labor wanted to do was distract, divert and silence the opposition, and it was a pure disgrace,” Ms Vallence said.

Sexual assaults

■ Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish says ABS statistics revealed a disturbing trend with incidents of sexual assault in Australia increasing by 10 per cent from the previous year.

“Most alarming, though, is that this increase was 13 per cent in Victoria. That is an additional 805 victims, 87 per cent of whom were females,” Ms McLeish said.

The Local Paper is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach The Local Paper or make a complaint to the Australian Press Council in writing at: www.presscouncil.org.au The Council may also be contacted on

● ● Bridget Vallence, Evelyn MLA

●

●

●

● Jaclyn Symes MLC

Minister visits Murrindindi

● ● ● ●

Local Government Minister Nick Staikos (pictured centre) visited Murrindindi Shire. He was photgraphed with Shire CEO Livia Bonazzi and Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher, with a Gough Whitlam portrait in the background.

Statewide

MELBOURNE 38kg cocaine seized

■ Major Drug Squad investigators arrested three people fter seizing 38kg of cocaine worth $12.3 million and uncovering a clandestine drug laboratory as part of an alleged drug trafficking syndicate in Melbourne’s west and north-west.

Investigators allege the syndicate had been operating out of an address in Braybrook and an address in Fraser Rise, as well as using two vehicles to travel interstate.

Police intercepted one of the vehicles on the Hume Hwy near Euroa and the other at an address in Sunshine on Monday last week (Sep. 8).

A search of both vehicles was conducted, with police locating and seizing 32kg of cocaine, cash and numerous mobile phones.

Subsequent warrants were then executed the same day by Major Drug Squad investigators and the Clandestine Laboratory Squad at an address in Braybrook, as well as the following day on Tuesday at addresses in Fraser Rise, Sunshine and Cairnlea

The Royal Avenue address in Braybrook was found to house a sophisticated drug lab along with various chemicals, equipment and weapons.

Further drugs, including 6kg cocaine and 16kg methylamphetamine were seized from the addresses, as well as three handguns, two 3D printed firearms, ammunition and around $70,000 in cash.

It means police sized a total of 38kg of cocaine, which has an estimated potential street value of $12.3 million.

The 16kg methylamphetamine seized by police has an estimated potential street value of $9.6 million.

A 30-year-old Sunshine man was arrested and charged with trafficking large commercial quantities of cocaine and methylamphetamine and possessing equipment for manufacture.

A 31-year-old Cairnlea man and a 26-yearold Fraser Rise man were also arrested and charged with trafficking large commercial quantities of cocaine.

All three men have been remanded to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on January 30.

WOMAN HID METH, HEROIN IN UNDERWEAR

■ Public Order Response Team officers have charged a woman after she was allegedly caught hiding heroin and methamphetamine in her underwear.

Officers were patrolling in St Kilda when they noticed a black Holden Viva with a smashed window parked on St Kilda Rd about 7.30pm on September 7.

As police approached the Holden a man exited the passenger’s seat and attempted to leave the area.

Officers stopped the man and while they were searching him a woman got out of the drivers seat and allegedly attempted to hide a bag under the vehicle.

Police retrieved the bag which was found to contain large quantities of methamphetamine and heroin, an imitation firearm, a knife, prescription medication and various drug paraphernalia.

The man was released pending further enquiries while the woman was taken to St Kilda Police Station where a full search was conducted.

Officers located 12.4g of heroin and $300 in cash hidden in the woman’s underwear while two bags of methamphetamine were found in her bra.

In total police seized 51.6g of methamphetamine and 27.48g of heroin.

The 23-year-old Dandenong woman was subsequently

PRESTON

20 cars damaged

■ Preston police officers are investigating after 20 vehicles were damaged in Preston Officers were told an unknown man sprayed graffiti on 20 parked vehicles on Murray Rd and William St between 3.30pm and 4.30pm on September 4.

charged with trafficking and possessing heroin, methamphetamine and drug of dependence as well as possessing an imitation firearm, pos-

sessing a controlled weapon and dealing with proceeds of crime.

She has been bailed to face Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on January 23.

Statewide

It is understood the man used spray paint to write the word ‘dog’ on each vehicle.

Total value of the damage is estimated to be about $10,000. Investigators have released CCTV and images of a man who may be able to assist with their enquiries.

The man is perceived to be Caucasian in appearance, aged in his 20s, with a medium build and short, dark hair.

He was wearing a brown cap, and a blue, black and white tracksuit hoody.

LYSTERFIELD

Fatal collision

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a fatal collision in Lysterfield on Thursday night (Sep. 11).

Two vehicles collided head-on on Lysterfield Rd, north of Wellington Rd, about 11pm.

Despite the best efforts of emergency services to revive the female driver of one vehicle, she was declared deceased at the scene.

A male passenger from the second vehicle was airlifted to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

The driver in the same vehicle sustained minor injuries and was taken to hospital under police guard.

Exact circumstances surrounding the collision are being investigated.

MILDURA

Burglary charges

■ Mildura Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged two men following a commercial burglary in Mildura on Sunday, September 7.

It is alleged the men gained entry to a business on Fifteenth Street

The Homes of Tomorrow Are Being Built Today: Wilson Heat Pumps Lead the Way

■ When Alex began building a new home in Hampton, in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs, the vision went far beyond floor plans and finishes. It was a commitment to the future.

Like many Australians, Alex had seen energy prices soar, and the conversation about moving away from gas grew louder.

Instead of waiting for change to be forced upon him, he decided to seize the opportunity to create a home that would be efficient, stylish, affordable to run, and environmentally responsible.

Designing for Tomorrow, Today

Working closely with the builder and installer to map out choices that would set his home up for decades to come, Alex took a future-focused approach.

From heat pump air conditioning to an AQUALUX Wilson Heat Pump Hot Water system, from battery storage to a home lift designed for accessibility, every detail was chosen with efficiency and longevity in mind.

A standout decision was hot water, not just for Alex, but more broadly, it’s one of the largest energy users in Australian homes, accounting for up to 30 per cent of household energy use.

CSIRO-supported modelling shows that upgrading thermal features, paired with electrifying hot water and cooking appliances, can slash energy bills by up to $2,200 a year.

For Alex, that made future-proofing feel like a win, not a cost burden.

“Rather than defaulting to traditional bulky systems, I chose an AQUALUX Domestic Hot Water Heat Pump from Wilson because its tank was stylish, designed and manufactured in Australia, and energy efficient compared to conventional technologies.”

Additionally, Alex said that he liked that Wilson systems use R-290. This low-global-warming-poten-

tial refrigerant reduces end-of-life environmental impacts, an increasingly important factor in national heat pump policy.

The Smarter Choice

In Melbourne, household energy choices could reduce bills by up to 82 per cent, according to the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA).

The analysis also highlights that thermally efficient homes in Melbourne consume only two-thirds of the energy of poorly performing homes, underscoring the long-term benefits of designing smarter, futureproof builds.

Trusted expertise was another key factor for Alex.

Ben, installer from NewGen Solar & Heat Pumps, says this choice is becoming the new norm.

“More households want to get off gas and reduce their energy bills, but they don’t want to compromise on

quality, reliability and performance, and you don't have to,” Ben said.

“Wilson Heat Pumps tick all the boxes, they’re engineered to Australian standards, built for local conditions, and backed by more than 95 years of experience in hot water manufacturing.”

Out With the Old, in With the New

For Alex, the decision was about more than bills. It was about building for the future.

“I wanted to create a home I can be proud of,” Alex explained.

“Knowing my choices are better for the environment, look great, and save money feels like a win-win.”

Mark Padwick, General Manager of Wilson Heat Pumps, said that future-proofing a home today extends beyond energy efficiency.

“Building a home today includes the ability to include adaptable spaces that can change with family

needs, design choices that enhance health and wellbeing, accessibility features and sustainable systems,” said Mark.

Together, these features create homes that are resilient, comfortable, and ready for decades of change.

To check out the Wilson Hot Water Heat Pump range, visit: https:// wilsonhotwater.com.au/wilson-heatpumps/

Product: Wilson Hot Water Heat Pump Range

Company: Wilson Hot Water

Website: https:// wilsonhotwater.com.au/ wilson-heat-pumps/

Where

Rail confidence

Local News

Prayer read

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■ 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.

■ Euroa MLA Annabelle Cleeland says regional Victorians deserve safe, reliable rail services. Her comments follow an incident where a V/Line train on the Seymour line lost a carriage near Tallarook

This forced services to shut down and left passengers stranded for hours on crowded replacement coaches.

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■

■ ALEXANDRA. Endeavour

Alexandra (BP). 10 Downey St.

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Foodworks. 102 Grant St.

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Mount Pleasant Hotel. 90 Grant St.

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Nutrien Harcourts. 56 Grant St.

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■ 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.

■

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.

■

■

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

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

■ ■ 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.

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

■

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

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

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

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

“This deeply concerning safety failure comes as the region prepares for a planned 55-day shutdown between September and November,” said Ms Cleeland , who has raised the matter in Parliament.

Court Lists

Seymour Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings

■ The latest meeting of Nillum bik Shire Council included a prayer read by Father Steven Rigo, Parish Priest of Sacred Heart Diamond Creek, St Thomas the Apostle Greensborough North and St Mary’s Greensborough

Sporting grants

■ Nillumbik Shire Council has presented za number of sporting grants:

■ Diamond Valley U14 Boys Basketball Team (Blue Lake Ward) received $500 for being selected to play at the National Club Basketball Championships in Western Australia.

■ Holly Gregory (Bunjil Ward) received $250 for being selected to represent Australia in Cross Country at the Sports Travel Australia Cross Country event in the USA

■

■

■ ■ 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.

■ ■ 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.

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.

■

■ EILDON. Foodworks. 18 Main

St.

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■ YEA. Country Club Hotel. 18 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Newsagency. 67 High St.

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■

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

■

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

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■ EPPING. Epping RSL. Harvest Home Rd.

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

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■ 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.

■

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

■ ■ YEA. Foodworks. 10 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Giddy Coat Cafe. 94

High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Post Office. 123 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Service Station. 165 High St.

■

■ YEA. Grand Central Hotel. 64

High St.

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■ ■ ■ BROADFORD. Commercial Hotel. 31 High St.

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■

■ ■ YEA. Marmalades. 20 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Mint and Jam. 46 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Nutrien Harcourts. 52

High St.

■ ■ YEA. Peppercorn Hotel. 21 Station St.

■

■ ■ ■ YEA. Provender Bakery. 56 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Rendezvous In Yea. 10

High St.

■ ■ YEA. Royal Mail Hotel. 88

High St.

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

■ BROADFORD. IGA Supermarket. 65 High St.

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

■ ■ DONNYBROOK. Donnybrook Hotel. 825 Donnybrook Rd.

■ DONNYBROOK. Donnybrook Post Office. 810 Donnybrook Rd.

■ KILMORE. BP. 102 Sydney St.

■

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

■ Sienna Pavitt (Ellis Ward) received $200 for being selected to represent Victoria at the Australian Gymnastics Championships in Queensland

■ Madeleine Goldsworthy (Wingrove Ward) received $200 for being selected to represent Victoria at the Australian Youth Indoor Volleyball Championships in Western Australia

Submission made

■ A Whittlesea Council meeting was due to be held on Tuesday last week (Sep. 9) to hear from one submitter who has requested to speak in relation to the proposed lease to Optus located at Council’s reserve, 52W Main St, Thomastown

A lease agreement is required to formalise the parties’ agreement to the proposal with the following proposed key terms:

■ Lease Term: 10 years with one further option of 10 years.

■ Rental Fee: Gross rental $30,000 per annum excluding GST.

■ Rental Review: 3% annually on every anniversary date.

■ Market Rent Review: at year 10

Peter Hopper Lake

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■ ■ 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.

■ ■ 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.

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

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

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

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■ ■ ■ 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.

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■ ■ 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.

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

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■ ■ YEA. Yea Bakery. 44 High St.

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■ ■ KILMORE. Kilmore Bakery. 54 Sydney St.

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■ ■ ■ 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.

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

■ 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.

■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook General Store. 36 Main Rd.

Thursday, September 18 Akram, Saher Baker, Kye Barnett, Philip Bradshaw, Tracey Brown, Tracey Cameron, Michael Cleveland, Trevor Cuschieri, Jonathon D'aloia, Anthony Damarda, Mustafa Dean, James Doyle, Christopher Edwards, Nathan Ettia, Joseph Manfred Ford, Darren Glavocih, Steven Hall, Ben James Hayes, Terry Hunt, Cheyenne Izzard, Jaxon Kaur, Karamjit Kelly, Hugo Mccarter, Clayton Mcinnes, Ethan Newell, Madeline Sarah Nodzio, Jai Clinton Oliver, Zackary Pearce, Samuel David Sheridan, Matthew Simmonds, Peter Donald Smith, Bruce Graham Smith, Jayden Stefuly, Ricky Emrick Stewart, Brenda Sutton, Brodee Tagiilima, Iosefa Friday, September 19 Anderson, Steven Elson, Steven Francis, Saliba Khan, Alfraaz Newton, Sean Jeffrey Pankhurst, Shannon Zhao, Haoyu

Wednesday, September 24 Bettridge, Patrick Leslie Blagrove, Andrew Braybrooke, Christine Darden, Adrienne Elizabeth Faley, James Victor Jones, Ronald Mazzeo, Joseph Mcguire, Daniel Michael Mutimer, Clinton Ronald O'connor, Colleen Norma Simonoski, Robert Tran, Kevin Boi Trott, Sherrie Veljanovski, Dylan Wilson, Robert Peter Wilson, Shelly

Mansfield Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings

■ Whittlesea Council has heard a report from Chief Executive Officer Craig Lloyd about the project to revitalise Peter Hopper Lake in Mill Park. It is said to be continuing well, with several major milestones reached recently.

“Construction of the lake’s new sediment pond has finished and installation of a new raingarden is taking shape,” Mr Lloyd said.

“The sediment pond has an important role to play in preventing pollutants entering the lake from stormwater, while the raingarden will improve water quality by continuously filtering lake water to remove excess nutrients.

“A gross pollutant trap, which captures things like bottles and leaves has been installed.

“The installation of a new pump station to support water circulation and landscaping works around the lake will be completed later in the year.

“This project is jointly funded by the Australian Government’s Urban Rivers and Catchments Program, and the City of Whittlesea,” Mr Lloyd said.

Parentline

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■

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

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

■ ■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook Hotel. 15 Main Rd.

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

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

■

■

■ ■ LILYDALE. Lilydale Newsagency. 237 Main St.

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

■

■

■ ■ MILLGROVE. Licensed Grocery. 3043 Warburton Hwy.

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

■

■ ■ ■ WALLAN EAST. New Rattlers Inn. Station St.

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

■

■

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

■ ■ SEVILLE. Wooworths Seville. 568 Warburton Hwy.

■

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

■

■

■ ■ WARBURTON. Bakery. 3415 Warburton Hwy.

■ ■ 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.

Wednesday, September 17 Amani, Bilal Bowden, Sarah Bradley, Paul Gregory Christie, Blair Crumpen-Dolheguy, Seth Devine, Charlie Eden, Mark Fraser, William Fullman, Michael Galanis, Andreas Christou Goschnick, Dean Gregory Hassett, Lily Jones, Jessica Loschiavo, Alex Murphy, Ben Naoum, Fadi Michel Padbury, Keith Parker, Alex Pay, Deborah Pritchett, Tanner Ryan, Patrick Stillman, Aaron Talarico, Anthony Webster, Colin John Whitehead, Scott Friday, September 26 Strong, Maree

■ North-East Metropolitan MLC Nick McGowan has spoken in State Parliament about Parentliner.

“Today I direct my question on behalf of my local constituents – it was because of them and in particular one mother there who raised her concern,” Mr McGowan said.

“In a previous life she used to work for Parentline, and she is extremely concerned at the prospect that on October 31, Parentline will close – it will cease.

“Parentline, as we know, services in excess of 17,800 calls every year.

“There is currently, as we understand from the minister’s response in this place, no plan whatsoever to replace that service.

“That is to say that when parents seek help for their children between the ages of 5 and 18, there will be nowhere to turn.

“There will simply be no-one at the end of that line.

“I seek from the Premier her urgent intervention to save Parentline on behalf of all of my constituents,” Mr McGowan told the Legislative Council.

● ● ● ● Print copies of The Local Paper are available fortnightly.

Local Briefs

Well done Bloods

■ Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish has given a Parliamentary shout-out to Healesville junior footballers.

“A big shout-out to the Healesville Junior Football Club Under15 girls and the Under-14 mixed team, who both won their grand finals against Mount Evelyn. It was a good season for the Bloods,” Ms McLeish said

“Congratulations also to the Wesburn Junior Football Club Under-17 girlsfor winning their premiership against Belgrave

“There was a great turnout on the day with hundreds of players, families and supporters across the day flocking to Yarra Junction, where the local club did a great job as hosts.

“The Mansfield community are always on the front foot, and the launch of the first solar and battery installation at the Mansfield Football Netball Club was no exception.

“Mansfield are the first AFL club to have solar panels – 66 440-watt panels with battery storage of 40 kilowatt hours – installed as part of Power Forward, a Footy for Climate initiative.

“This initiative will save the club an impressive $8000 each year on their power bills and is cutting 740 tonnes of emissions over the project life cycle.

“Footy for Climate was founded by AFL players Tom Campbell and Jasper Pittard. Tom visited Mansfield in November last year with the Melbourne Football Club for a community event and got the ball rolling very speedily with club president Bo Christopher and Michael Bretherton, the junior footy club president.

“It was great to see everyone from the footy and netball club get around the launch and be supported by other community and AFL leaders: Ben Brown, Matt Genever, Greg Madigan and Andy Randall from Easy Being Green, as well as Lex Lynch and Lisa Kyle . It was a great event and well supported,” Ms McLeish said.

Melba Hwy works

■ Transport Victoria are completing works to ensure roads in the Yarra Valley remain reliable, supporting local communities, business operations and tourism.

Upcoming works to repair two landslips on the Melba Hwy in Dixon's Creek , just south of the Healesville, Kinglake Rd intersection, will commence mid-October and are expected to be complete by early 2026.

Networking event

■ A Murrindindi Business Networking Event will be held from 10.30am-1pm on Tuesday, October 28, at the Oliver Room of the Country Club Hotel, Yea. Theme is ‘The Future is Flexible: A Business Networking Experience’.

The event is open to all businesses and entrepreneurs from across the Murrindindi Shire

There will be updates from Murrindindi Council on projects and initiatives.

Key note presentation is, ‘Work Re-imagined: Building Resilient Hybrid Teams in the Hume Region,’ by Regional Development Australia – Melbourne

Swinburne University will share the latest trends and best practices and gain realworld insights from local leaders who’ve made hybrid work, work.

Water Week

■ Water Week will be held from October 20-26.

There are three elements to Goulburn Valley Water’s Water Week messaging, the aim being to develop a better understanding of water use in communities.

The Waterwise Gardens event (at Riverlinks in Shepparton on October 22) will be followed by our involvement as a sponsor in Water Night event on October 23.

The Education team are also in the final stages of a Don’t Flush It toilet paper wrap design competition, which asks students to design toilet paper wraps promoting this program.

$2.5 million win

■ A Yarra Ranges man has confessed he had a Father’s Day that will be hard to top in future years after discovering he won $2.5 million in Tattslotto draw. The devoted dad plans to upgrade the car and caravan.

‘Bury pets with humans’

■ Northern Victoria MLC Georgie Purcell has asked asked for a change to “an old religious law” that prohibits joint burials of humans and their pets.

“Under Victorian law, burying an animal in a public cemetery, even placing an urn in a coffin, is illegal,” Ms Purcell told Parliament.

“Since that time New South Wales has fixed up the cruel loophole that was denying people their dying wishes.

“Just last week the Prime Minister was asked on ABC radio if he would want to be buried with Toto, to which he responded: ‘If people feel close to their pets and they want to be buried with them, why would you stop it? Who’s being hurt?’

“Once again, I ask: will the minister finally honour the dying wishes of thousands of Victorians and allow joint burials between people and their pets?

“Making this change has the backing of hundreds of cemetery managers and funeral directors, anthropologists, animal advocacy organisations and apparently even now the Prime Minister. Yet the Victorian Government told the ABC it was aware of community interest in the issue but said it was not currently a legislative priority.

Ms Purcell asked it the Minister had met with any cemetery managers or funeral directors who are currently breaking the law and risking massive fines.

200 can switch from septic

■ Almost 200 households in Lilydale can now switch from septic tanks to piped sewerage, saving maintenance hassles and benefiting the environment.

The project is part of the Yarra Valley Water’s Community Sewerage Program , which provides households in Melbourne’s outer northern and eastern suburbs with the option to connect to a modern sewerage system, rather than relying on septic tanks.

Yarra Valley Water General Manager Asset Services, Bridie Fennessy, said the program benefited both the community and the environment.

“Moving properties off septic tanks and onto a sewerage system is a win-win,” she said.

“Managing septic tanks can often be a hassle. When tanks are too small or aren’t maintained, they can create unpleasant smells and can even leak waste onto other properties or into waterways.

“Connecting to sewerage is

more convenient for property owners and better for the environment.

“While people still need to be mindful of what goes down the drain and maintain their household plumbing, sewerage offers a far cleaner and more reliable alternative to managing an aging septic system.

“We’re very pleased more people have the option to connect to sewerage now that we’ve completed the works in

Lilydale.” Residents only need to cover the cost of connecting their property.

Yarra Valley Water funded the construction of the sewerage network and the connection point to each property.

Yarra Ranges Council Deputy Mayor Cr Richard Higgins said they were pleased to see the project complete.

“As a council, we’re fully committed to ensuring our region is as clean and environmentally friendly as possible,” Cr Higgins said.

“The new sewerage network in Lilydale helps us meet this commitment; it creates an environmentally friendly way of transporting and disposing of wastewater from households in Lilydale, and makes life easier for residents switching from septic.

“It’s good news for residents and good news for the environment.”

Portholes query by MLC

■ Northern Victoria MLC Wendy Lovell has asked about fixes for potholes in Nagambie.

“ My question is for the Minister for Roads and Road Safety. When will the horrendous potholes on Vickers Rd, Nagambie, be properly repaired with a full pavement replacement?” Ms Lovell asked.

“Constituents have contacted me about the terrible condition of Vickers Rd, the C344, near Nagambie

“This road has had minor repairs on numerous occasions, and every time the repairs quickly disintegrate.

“After recent complaints from local drivers, a series of potholes were patched, but the quality of work was terrible.

“Just a few days later the potholes returned, and they continue to grow. Everywhere in Victoria cost cutting and low standards of repair work are leaving regional roads in worse condition than they have ever been.

“The Minister for Roads has a duty to ensure that road repairs meet a high standard and provide safe and smooth driving conditions for all Victorians.

“The Minister must order that Vickers Rd be properly repaired with a full pavement replacement,” Ms Lovell said.

Cutbacks query

■ Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish says the State Labor Government continues a program of funding cutbacks.

“We have had $8 million slashed from primary prevention, with $24 million from service delivery,” Ms McLeish told Parliament.

“One of the things that bothers me greatly is that the Allan Labor Government have failed organisations that do a good job.

“Now they have failed Safe Steps. Safe Steps needed $3.9 million to operate 28 new high-security crisis centre shelter units funded by the Federal Government

“The Federal Government thought it was a great initiative to fund these new units for people at that really pointy end of being in need in a crisis.

“This shelter could accommodate nearly 1000 women and children each year, but the government could not find it within themselves to find $3.9 million to help Safe Steps

“It is not a huge sum. They have a great record. They have got the runs on the board to show how well they do.

“A $30 million cut to the court system means that those that are going to court are waiting longer and sometimes being subjected to very harsh and trying conditions for that longer period of time.

“Locally, not much happened in my electorate. We have had emergency services screaming for upgrades.

“The Mansfield SES has been on the radar for at least a decade, and the ambulance station.

“They are both outdated and outmoded and need to be rebuilt in the emergency services precinct that Mansfield have identified.

“Hoddles Creek CFA: I think maybe –this is really a maybe only of this week –things are starting to move again after such a long period of time.

“I know the late former captain Leonie Turner did so much to push that, and the brigade, in honouring her, are continuing to do so.

“We might finally get a station there. There are sporting clubs that need upgrades that were left out.

“Wesburn Junior Football Club at Queens Park, Healesville, are getting a little bit of money now, but not a lot.

“We have got school projects that we need. Wesburn Primary School have been desperate to have electronic flashing speed signs at the front of the school.

“And the roads – goodness me, the roads budget. The budget revealed road patching targets have been cut by 93 per cent.

“Road patching is only filling in a little bit here and there. Whilst we have had some work done in my area on one part of the Melba Highway, not all of it, it is starting to fall apart again quite quickly.

“On the Goulburn Valley Highway between Yarck and Mansfield, there are some terrible spots at Maindample near Bonnie Doon, near Yarck, that are in great need of work.

“Don Valley had a real patch-up job on Don Rd there.

“The Whittlesea-Yea Rd had little bits of patching but not enough. Pedestrian safety in Hurstbridge needs to be improved.

“There are some simple, cheap alternatives there for the government to do things, to slow traffic, to make things slower, because Hurstbridge is a little village, and it has got a fairly main road.

“It is a busy road as people go through it sometimes going way too fast heading up the Heidelberg-Kinglake Road there.

“We have got roads in the Yarra Valley, including the Warburton Highway , that need work.

“The government just do a little bit and try and say they have done a great job, but it is not cutting the mustard.

“We know that we have been neglected, people in the country. Even as recently as this week there were newspaper articles saying that they feel left behind.

“I will tell you we are left behind, because all the money is going into big projects in the city, the Premier’s pet projects, and not helping those in the country, where the people from the city like to go and visit and recreate,” Ms McLeish said.

● ● Wendy Lovell MLC

● ● ● Georgie Purcell MLC

Local Briefs

Offices close

■ Murrindindi Shire’s Library and Customer Service Centres in Alexandra, Yea and Kinglake, and the Mobile Service, will be closed on Friday, September 26, for the Grand Final Eve public holiday. Usual hours will resume on Monday, September 29.

Kerbside Collection, Resource Recovery Centres and the Alexandra Landfill will be operating as per their regular schedules.

For urgent matters such as stock on roads, dog attacks or unsafe road conditions, including fallen trees over roads, please phone 5772 0333 at any time, said a Council representative.

Kilsyth $10m boost

■ The sum of $10.5 million has been invested by the State Government to deliver major upgrades for the Pinks Reserve at Kilsyth Sports Centre, according to NorthEastern Metropolitan MLC Sonja Tepstra.

“I was really pleased to attend the opening of the new and upgraded centre with my colleague the fantastic member for Monbulk, Daniela De Martino,” Ms terpstra told State Parliament.

“These facilities host over 10,000 participants a year – that is thousands of kids forming friendships and exercising as well as thousands of parents sharing courtside chips, amongst other things.

“The upgrades include a new court, change room facilities and more.

“The court will mean byes can be eliminated, and it also enables the wheelchair league at the facility to expand.

“It is a fantastic thing. I hope everyone in the local community enjoys this really important upgraded facility, whether they are playing, coaching or cheering from the sidelines.”

Virtual clinic

■ Sonja Terpstra, North-Eastern Metropolitan MLC, spoke in State Pasrliament, last week about a new virtual clinic for women’s health.

Ms Terpstra sought an update on how Victorian women and girls are benefiting from the virtual women’s health clinic, particularly in regard to abortion care, advice and treatment.

“The Allan Labor Government virtual women’s health clinic is now open to all Victorian women and girls of any age, providing free, expert advice on a wide range of health needs, including endometriosis and pelvic pain, menstrual health, cervical screening, menopause care, breast health and sexual and reproductive health such as contraception and abortion.

“The clinic is led by specialist nurses and can be accessed via telehealth either online or by phone.

“This makes it easier for women across the state, particularly in rural and regional and remote communities, to receive timely care without the barrier of distance,” Ms Terpstra told the Legislative Council.

Link destruction

■ Aiv Puglielli, North-East Metropolitan MLC, says that the North East Link toll road has “ripped a gaping path through parts of our beautiful natural environment in the north-eastern suburbs of Melbourne”.

“Remnant bushland at the Simpson Army Barracks was flattened. This was some of the best remaining habitat for the matted flax lily and the Studley Park gum, two critically endangered plants,” Mr Puglidelli said

“It was also part of a wildlife corridor used by the powerful owl and the swift parrot, two of our native birds that are vulnerable and critically endangered respectively.

“Living in the area it is pretty apparent that the environmental damage cannot be undone, but I think the public deserves to know just how bad the situation is.”

Mr Puglielli asked Transport Infrastructure Minister Gabrielle Williams to provide any updated guidance she had received on the impact that this project’s destruction has had on these endangered species at this site.

Magpies swoop

■ Magpies and other birds may be swooping, here's some things you can do to protect yourself : avoid the area; walk by them, don't run; travel in a group; hop off your bike when riding past a nest.

■ “Mernda police station is supposed to be a 24-hour station offering all-day coverage across the Whittlesea police service area. But when Liberal leader Brad Battin visited the station, the door was shut in the middle of the day, the lights were off and a big red sign said ‘Closed’,” Northern Victoria MLC Wendy Lovell has told Parliament.

“This is a relatively new police station that only opened in 2017, and it has already been closed unexpectedly because the Allan Labor Government is incapable of fully staffing our state’s police force.

“This follows recent unplanned closures at Epping police station due to staff shortages, leaving locals unsure if that station will continue to be open in the future.

“When I asked the Minister for Police why the government has not started construction of the new Wollert police station, he said, ‘Don’t worry; Wollert is covered by Epping police station.’ But Epping police station has had unplanned closures.

“Likewise, when I asked about funding for the upgrade of Whittlesea police station and increased service capacity, the minister said, ‘Don’t worry; that area is covered by the 24hour station in Mernda.’

“But now we learn that Mernda police station has also had unplanned closures. The people of Victoria deserve better,” Ms Lovell said.

Upgrade for Station House Mernda Police Station ‘closed’

■ Northern Victoria voters have been expressing their desire to be heard by the State Government, Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell says.

“From the emergency services and volunteers levy to the VicGrid reforms, my constituents are very concerned with the direction this government is taking,” Ms Tyrrell

“All they want is a chance for their concerns and opinions to be heard. Premier, why won’t listen to the constituents in Northern Victoria on issues that are affecting them?”

State Treasurer Jaclyn Symes replied: “Ms Tyrrell, I will pass your question to the Premier for direct response, but I would just comment that as a regional Victorian herself she is speaking regularly to members for Northern Victoria. She lives in a Northern Victoria electorate. I think you will get a response back about her numerous engagements with locals in Northern Victoria on a regular basis.”

Ms Tyrrell said people were gathering at Bendigo in an ttempt to speak with the Ms Allan: Premier, will you accompany me to this rally in your home town of Bendigo and listen to their concerns, “or is a business junket to China more important than your constituents?”

Ms Symes said the relationship with China was “really, really important” for country constituents.

Local Briefs

Police deaths

■ Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish has spoken on the death of two policemen at Porepunkah : “Two weeks ago Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de WaartHottart lost their lives when they were gunned down at work.

“Both were dedicated officers who would rather be out catching crooks than completing paperwork behind a desk. Their deaths will leave a great impact on their family and friends, particularly their policing colleagues, many of whom are active in the search for the gunman.”

Gunns Gully Rd

■

“Why has the government delayed the start of construction for the Gunns Gully Rd and Hume Freeway interchange, and when will work begin?” Northern Victoria MLC Wendy Lovell has asked Roads Minister Melissa Horne.

“Gunns Gully Road is a planned six-lane arterial road that will run west to east from the Hume Freeway to eventually join Merriang Road

“This road is vitally important for my constituents. It will take traffic off the chronically congested Donnybrook Rd and will provide essential alternative entry and exit points to the housing estates along Donnybrook Rd

“The minister said earlier this year that the Department of Transport and Planning was finalising agreements with a housing developer to deliver the Gunns Gully Road and Hume Freeway interchange and that construction works were expected to commence by mid-2025.

■ The iconic Station House building in the heart of Mt Evelyn is getting a muchneeded upgrade to improve accessibility and safety.

The site is home to the Reading Room, the Mt Evelyn Neighbourhood House and Tasty Az. Works will remove the old disability ramp, which is in disrepair, the retaining walls at the front of the building and createawrap-around accessible walkway, running from the accessible carparks to the Station House entrances.

A new stair at the rear of the building will complete the upgrades.

There will be some disruption to the surrounding areabut the builder will do their best to minimise any inconvenience.

Some car spaces and sections of footpath, at the front of the Station House, will be fenced off on Wray Cresent, but there will still be adequate parking.

“Spring is here, mid-2025 has passed, but the work has not commenced. This is another Labor planning failure that makes the serious traffic problems in the northern growth suburbs even worse. The minister must explain the reason for the delay and confirm when construction will begin.”

Somerton Rd query

■ There has been an unacceptable buildup of rubbish and debris along median strips in the outer north, particularly on Somerton Rd, according to Northern Metropolitan MLC Evan Mulholland.

“I am regularly contacted by constituents, particularly from Greenvale, who are frustrated at the mess and debris on Somerton Rd. Piles of litter, dumped rubbish and overgrown grass not only look terrible but create safety hazards that put my community at risk and in danger.

“Also it undermines pride in our local community. Local residents know how to spot the difference between a local government road and a state arterial road.

“Just look at the State Government roads: they have usually got more potholes and more rubbish.

“Minister [Melissa Horne], these roads are your responsibility. I ask you to direct your department to urgently clean up debris and remove rubbish on Somerton Road.”

Increased fire risk

■ Fire risk at the Toorourrong Reservoir Park needs to be reduced, Northern Victoria MLC Wendy Lovell has told Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos.

“Toorourrong Reservoir is a Melbourne Water facility just north of Whittlesea township, and the surrounding park is managed by Parks Victoria,” Ms Lovell said.

“I recently met with members of the Friends of Toorourrong, together with the Whittlesea and surrounds fire guard group, who are highly concerned about the increasing fire risk at the Toorourrong Reservoir Park

“This is a high-risk bushfire area that was devastated in the Black Saturday bushfires of 2009, and all steps possible must be taken to reduce the chance of future fires.

“Since the bushfires of 2009 regrowth in the area has been tremendous, and there have not been any controlled burns to reduce the increase in fuel load.

“Friends of Toorourrong volunteers have made several recommendations to reduce the fire risk in the park, and I am supporting their call for action to be taken. First, there should be controlled burns in the surrounding bush to reduce the fuel load. Malfunctions on the utomatic electric gate at the entry to the park on Jacks Creek Road need to be fixed, Ms Lovell said.

● ● Brad Battin, Opposition Leader

Mount Evelyn Station House

Latest News

Const. charged

■ A senior constable from a specialist department has been charged following an internal investigation.

The man has been charged with two counts of sexual assault, course of conduct sexual assault, sexual activity in the presence of a child under 16 and common law assault.

It is alleged the incident occurred between June 2023 and November 2024 while the officer was off-duty.

The 34-year-old has been charged on summons and is expected to appear before a magistrates’ court at a later date.

Skateboard crash

■ Prahran Highway Patrol officers are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a skateboarder was seriously injured in St Kilda West on Wednesday (Sep. 10).

Investigators have been told a man was riding an electrically-powered skateboard on Pier Rd

It is believed that the rider, who was not wearing a helmet, lost control and crashed about 8.45am.

The man was taken to hospital with lifethreatening injuries.

Exact circumstances surrounding the matter are yet to be determined.

Investigators are keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the crash, especially those with CCTV or dashcam footage.

Driving blind

■ A driver has been arrested after allegedly fleeing from police for more than 8km with his bonnet uplifted and blocking his windscreen in Melbourne’s south early on Wednesday morning (Sep. 10).

Cranbourne uniform members were on patrol when they came across a vehicle with a badly damaged front-end driving through Cranbourne West about 12.20am.

They did a U-turn to try and intercept the driver, who refused to pull over.

The police Air Wing began tracking the vehicle from overhead, guiding members on the ground to the vehicle’s whereabouts.

The 27-year-old driver pulled over and ran from the car near McCormacks Rd in Carrum Downs

In his haste, the fleeing man rolled his ankle and police were easily able to catch up with him. He was provided with medical treatment and taken into custody.

Police charged the Carrum Downs man with fail to stop at police direction, unlicensed driving, drive unregistered motor vehicle, resist arrest, possess meth, GHB and cannabis and commit indictable offence while on bail.

Suspicious fire

■ More than 30 Fire Rescue Victoria firefighters responded to a house fire in West Heidelberg

The fire was reported at 4.36am and crews arrived at the Southern Rd scene within six minutes.

Upon arrival, crews found a 15-metre by 15-metre brick home fully alight, with the fire having entered the roof space of the premise.

Firefighters immediately escalated the response, sending additional appliances and crews – including aerial appliances.

Wearing breathing apparatus, crews attacked the fire.

At 5.03am the roof of the property collapsed. All firefighting operations were conducted externally to ensure the safety of responding crews.

Firefighters brought the incident under control at 5.09am. No people were located at the scene. The fire has been deemed suspicious and will be investigated.

MAJOR ARREST OVER ILLEGAL TOBACCO

■ The alleged ringleader of a criminal syndicate accused of supplying Melbourne with more than seven tonnes of illicit tobacco has been charged following a major joint law enforcement operation.

The North Coburg man, 49, is accused of masterminding the importation of largescale quantities of illicit tobacco into Victoria , dodging an estimated $36.3 million in Commonwealth excise taxes.

● Police arrested a man at North coburg on Thursday (Sep. 11). November, 2024, based on intelligence from the ABF-led Illicit Tobacco Taskforce about a suspected criminal syndicate smuggling significant amounts of illicit tobacco into Australia. The tobacco was shipped to Victoria via air and sea cargo from multiple countries, concealed inside consignments of kitchen items and clothing.

A second man, 29, accused of conspiracy to import tobacco, has also been charged.

The Victorian Joint Organised Crime Taskforce, comprising members of the AFP, Victoria Police and Aus tralian Border Force , launched an investigation in

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It is alleged the North Coburg man facilitated the importation of more than seven tonnes of looseleaf tobacco, about five million cigarettes and more than 5000 vapes throughout a 10-month period to avoid millions in Commonwealth taxes.

He allegedly used connections and criminal associates

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in the freight and logistics industry to import and distribute the tobacco to a number of warehouses and 20 tobacco shops under his control.

JOCTF members arrested the man at a North Coburg property on Tuesday morning (Sep. 9). They also arrested a Meadow Heights man, 29, who was allegedly responsible for the movement of the tobacco across the state/country.

JOCTF members also executed a series of search warrants on Tuesday at commercial and residential properties across Melbourne, including at Campbellfield, Coburg North, Meadow Heights, Mickleham, Gladstone Park and Craigieburn , seizing equipment and other items.

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Latest

News

Officers charged

■ Detectives from Homicide Squad have charged two police officers with negligent manslaughter following the death of a man in Hoppers Crossing last year.

The two police officers – a 29-year-old male constable and 45-year-old male sergeant, both from North West Metro Region – have been suspended from Victoria Police since July last year.

Both officers have been bailed and were to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on September 12.

The charges relate to the death of a 35year-old Hoppers Crossing man, who was arrested at the corner of Heaths and Tarneit Rds, Hoppers Crossing, on July 15, 2024, and subsequently died in hospital eight days later on July 23.

Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam, Public Safety and Security, said: “Since the incident occurred last year, it has been subject to investigation by the Homicide Squad with oversight from Professional Standards Command

“I understand the news today will be concerning and difficult for many in the community, however I want to reassure them that Victoria Police does not shy away from taking action to uphold community trust and confidence in our organisation.

“The overwhelming majority of our police do the right thing day in and day out and provide exemplary service to the community.

“I is vital that where incidents such as this occur, they are investigated thoroughly regardless of a police officer's rank, position or tenure,” Deputy Commissioner Steednam said.

Mongols arrests

■ Victoria Police have arrested nine people and laid 42 charges as part of a national day of action targeting Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs, including the Mongols.

In Victoria, the Taskforce Morpheus day of action – which ran on Wednesday (Sep. 10) – focussed on swooping on OMCG members, including the Mongols, and their associates for Firearm Prohibition Order searches and other offences including affray and drugs.

Detectives from Echo Taskforce, VIPER Taskforce and Hawk Taskforce, as well as police from the regions including Caulfield Divisional Response Unit and Dandenong Family Violence Investigation Unit teamed up to conduct 20 FPO searches in multiple suburbs.

Suburbs included Parkdale, Mentone, Narre Warren, St Kilda, Hallam, Hoppers Crossing, Docklands, Diggers Rest, South Kingsville, Clyde North, Point Cook, South Morang, Craigieburn, Smythes Creek, Tatura and Shepparton

Four new FPO’s were also served on OMCG members.

Six of the arrests resulted in charges for an affray linked to an assault in a correctional facility in Lara on December 7 last year.

The other arrests related to various criminal offending. It included a 34-year-old Cranbourne West man who was arrested for possessing 100g methylamphetamine.

He has since been charged with trafficking a commercial quantity of a drug of dependence and was remanded to face the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.

And explore the fundamentals of fortune telling to uncover insights about yourself and your friends. Book an experience. fortyyears coffee.com Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or a curious beginner, our hands-on experiences will guide you through the journey of this ancient brewing art.

More than 1400 in cash was also seized by police during the arrest.

Another arrest included a 26-year-old Diggers Rest man for possessing prescription medications without a prescription.

Across the country, police arrested 41 people in total, resulting in 120 charges.

Police also conducted 43 FPO compliance checks, 21 search warrants, seizing two replica firearms, an amount of ammunition, more than 100kg of methamphetamine.

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Kerry Kulkens

Presented by Sarah Kulkens, Australia’s

Trusted Psychic Family

ARIES (March 21 - April 20)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 1, 7, 8, 4

Lotto Numbers: 13, 21, 45, 11, 10, 33

Avoid gossiping or repeating unverified information, as it could harm your reputation. Show appreciation to your loved ones to strengthen your relationships. Financial matters are set to stabilise, bringing balance to your week.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 1, 7, 8, 4

Lotto Numbers: 10, 1, 19, 15, 40, 22

A mystery admirer may take a keen interest in your activities. Many will be offered a chance to join financial ventures, while romantic propositions could excite your week.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: Fawn

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 2, 6, 5, 7

Lotto Numbers: 45, 6, 21, 5, 17, 11

Avoid lending money or possessions during this period, as misunderstandings could arise. Plan your social engagements carefully to avoid double-booking yourself.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 3, 5, 8, 7

Lotto Numbers: 12, 15, 19, 24, 28, 20

Tensions may arise, but you can avoid conflicts by discussing matters with your partner before making unilateral decisions. Luckier times are ahead if you remain patient and focused.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Lilac

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 4, 8, 6, 1

Lotto Numbers: 13, 16, 25, 24, 32, 34

Let your imagination inspire rather than mislead you. Singles will find their charm irresistible to others—this is a great time to pursue romantic interests confidently.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 2, 5, 6, 8

Lotto Numbers: 12, 5, 17, 45, 32, 36

Though impatience may tempt you, careful planning will lead to success. Surprises are likely, and someone from your past might unexpectedly re-enter your life.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 2, 4

Lotto Numbers: 13, 16, 24, 29, 35, 38

Diplomacy and understanding are essential in domestic relationships to maintain harmony. For many, career opportunities could open doors to the chance of a lifetime.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Lemon

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 5, 8, 4, 6

Lotto Numbers: 13, 16, 24, 29, 35, 33

Progress is on the horizon, and romance looks promising, though your partner may struggle with your mood swings. Balance your views with compromise for a harmonious week.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 2, 6, 3, 4

Lotto Numbers: 13, 16, 14, 21, 25, 22

Domestic tensions may stem from overburdening others. Allow life to unfold naturally for a more relaxed and productive week.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Brown

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2, 6, 3, 5

Lotto Numbers: 13, 16, 34, 33, 22, 7

Avoid extremes, as pushing too hard may lead to resistance. Take time to assess your commitments—some relationships may not be as balanced as you thought.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Grey

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 3, 5, 6, 1

Lotto Numbers: 13, 15, 18, 24, 26, 5

Unexpected changes may disrupt your routine, but these could lead to profitable opportunities. Career advancements are likely for the ambitious.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: Dark Blue

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 5, 3, 6, 1

Lotto Numbers: 13, 16, 18, 25, 24, 42

Help is coming for those who deserve it, and favourable opportunities will come knocking. Be decisive and open to the support of those who can help you achieve your goals.

Kerry Kulkens™ Magic Shop 1693 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave Visit us online at: www.kerrykulkens.com.au

Follow us on Facebook for the latest updates and offerings.

TURKISH DELIGHTS What’s On

● ● Melih Karaduman presents ‘Forty Years Coffee’, created from a passion for sharing the rich heritage of Turkish coffee.

■ Melih’s Karaduman’s mission is to bring people together through the timeless tradition of Turkish coffee making, offering an authentic cultural experience that is both enlightening and enjoyable.

He believes in the power of Turkish coffee to connect people, spark conversations, and build a sense of community.

Melih is dedicated to providing an unforgettable journey that celebrates the art and history of Turkish coffee.

The experience is designed to immerse patrons in the rich cultural heritage and timeless traditions of Turkish coffee.

Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or a curious beginner, the hands-on experiences will guide you through the fascinating journey of this ancient brewing art.

Begin with a comprehensive introduction to the history and cultural significance of Turkish coffee. Discover how this timeless tradition has played a central role in Turkish social life and continues to connect people today.

Watch as The Forty Years expert brews authentic Turkish coffee using traditional methods passed down through generations.

You will observe each step closely, from selecting the perfect coffee beans to creating the signature foam, with practical tips to help you brew Turkish coffee at home.

Enjoy a tasting session where you will savour the rich, aromatic flavours of freshly brewed Turkish coffee. As you sip, learn more about the role of coffee in Turkish culture, making your experience even more enriching.

After tasting, you’ll close your cup and let the grounds settle.

70 Years Ago

Hundreds queued

■ Hundreds of faithful Collingwood and Melbourne football fans huddled outside the gates of the Melbourne Cricket-ground overnight.

Most crouched round blazing fires, rugged up against biting wind and showers. Others sat out the vigil in cars.

Calendar

The Forty Years expert will then introduce you to the basics of coffee fortune telling, a captivating practice where you’ll learn how to interpret the symbols and patterns left in your coffee grounds.

Experience the magic of Turkish coffee with The Forty Years – available for individuals, couples, and groups across Melbourne and Victoria

Join one of the public workshops or arrange a private session for birthdays, hens’ nights, team bonding, or special celebrations.

Each experience includes a live demonstration of traditional Turkish coffee brewing, cultural storytelling, tastings, and a light-hearted introduction to fortune telling.

To explore upcoming sessions, simply use the datespecific buttons on the website page.

For customised events at a preferred location, feel free to contact The Forty Years directly.

In Turkish culture, fortune telling is not taken too seriously, but it is a beloved pastime that adds an element of fun and mystery to the coffeedrinking experience.

Fortune telling with Turkish coffee, known as 'fal,' is a cherished tradition in Turkey

After drinking the coffee, the cup is inverted onto the saucer, allowing the grounds to settle and form patterns.

These patterns are then interpreted to predict the future and offer insights into the drinker's life.

■ Tueday, September 16. 1pm. Diamond Valley Library. SOLD OUT. See the website for the latest available dates: fortyyearscoffee.com ● ● Forty Years Coffee https://www.fortyyearscoffee.com/ Facebook - Instagram -

Common symbols include hearts (love), birds (news), and snakes (warnings).

This practice is not only a fun activity but also a way to connect with friends and family, sharing hopes and concerns in a relaxed setting.

The art of coffee fortune telling has been passed down through generations, with each family having its own unique interpretations of the symbols.

The process begins with the preparation of the coffee, which is brewed using a special pot called a cezve.

Once the coffee is consumed, the cup is swirled to ensure the grounds cover the inside, then flipped onto the saucer.

After the cup has cooled, the fortune teller examines the patterns left by the grounds, interpreting their meanings based on traditional symbolism.

Become part of the Turkish coffee-loving community.

The first fans dribbled in at 1 p.m. yesterday. At 7.30 the rush began. The women brought blankets and food. The men supplied the beer.

Most of the fires werebüilt from timber being used to erect the new M.C.G. stand.

The young men an d women sat round their fires, singing and talking about the big match. The older women barbecued the steaks, chops, and eggs.

Experienced grand final "fanatics" were snug under tarpaulins or in sleeping bags.

Collingwood supporters heavily outnumbered Melbourne fans. Ninety thousand fans, maximum capacity,are expected to pack the M.C.G. for the Melbourne-Collingwood grand final. It is one of the most open battles for years.

Both teams are 100% fit, weather should be good, and a near perfect ground is predicted. Gates will open not later than 10.30 a.m., and admission prices are 4/ for adults and 1/3 for children.

Seconds' grand final between Footscray and Richmond will start at noon, and the main match at 2.30 p.m.

What goes on

■ Newsvendor at ot the corner of Flinders and Elizabeth must've taken a Dale Carnegie course or something. He was wearing a Collingwood guernsey. And Melbourne socks.

Lost men ate goat

■ A pet goat - now dead- saved the lives of two starving brothers lost in wild country near Wood's Point this week. Max, 20, and Walter May, 18, of Gaffney's Creek, lost themselves last Tuesday during their first day's work as temporary Forestry Commission officers, and were not seen again until they staggered to safety early today. They had been assigned to blaze a fire-precautionary trail between Knockwood and Cornhill . Their pet goat "Billy," like Mary's lamb, followed them wherever they went. Finally, after two days without, food, hungry, ex hausted, and desperate, they realised they had no alternative but to kill him.

● ● The Argus. Sept. 17, 1955.

Fringe Festival

■ The Melbourne Fringe Festival runs from September 30 to October 19, bringing 500 events over more than 130 venues, and turning the city itself into a stage.

Fed Square, Elizabeth Street, Queen Victoria Market, and more will be transformed into free, interactive, and immersive artworks that invite the public to play, move, and connect at this year’s Melbourne Fringe Festival.

The city’s laneways, parks, gardens and iconic buildings like Trades Hall and Meat Market will be presenting works as part of the experience.

The centrepiece to the Festival is Power Move, which places a kinetic dance floor at Fed Square, challenging the city to dance hard enough to power the event off-grid. PowerMovefeatures a rotating daily program of DJs, dance and participatory events and opens with eight-hours of Non-StopGo-Go dancing on Tuesday September 30.

Also at Fed Square, Unwoman(the protest) is a durational performance confessional by Melbourne feminist theatre company TheRabble, celebrating the multitude of experiences around birth, fertility, and pregnancy. Everyday citizens will take the stage in civic space at Fed Square’s The Edge on Sunday October 5 to share their testimonies and personal stories.

At Arts Centre Melbourne’s forecourt, the participatory installation Voicesinvites audiences to control a 50-voice philharmonic choir triggering light and movement and creating a collaborative, ever-changing soundscape.

KummargiiYulendjBarringGadhaba/ ProjectionsofaCurrentFutureis a cycling and walking tour across the city, narrated by Boon Wurrung Senior Elder and Professor N’arwee’t Dr Carolyn Briggs , reawakening hidden waterways and ancestral memory beneath Melbourne’s streets, with projections on buildings created by Amina Briggs.

Lygon Street’s iconic Trades Hall is the Melbourne Fringe Festival Hub , hosting over 110 shows across pop-up theatres, meeting rooms, cupboards and carparks.

Joshua Ladgrove: Guest Host on The DenisWalterShowwill present a late-night comedy variety spectacular; TheSubplot:A hyperfixationontheTitansubmersible, a deep-dive into obsession; How to Art, a clown-fruit mash-up about creativity, survival, and gallery chaos, and Murderinthe Graveyard:AMurderVillageImprovised Whodunnit, a ghostly, audience-driven Halloween mystery. Punters can also linger at late-night Club Fringe.

Queen Victoria Market bursts to life with the Fringe Flavours Night Market, a popup stage for circus, cabaret, comedy, and music, and in North Melbourne, the historic Meat Market is transformed into a multi-space performance hub with a leafy courtyard bar, performance hall, and black box theatre. The program includes Decadence:10YearsofYummy, a highoctane cabaret celebrating a decade of circus, drag, and burlesque; Birds, a darkly comic beach apocalypse; The Village Square, a musical storytelling experience weaving fables of love, loss, and mischief; and CabaretTimeMachine, where audience suggestions send performers spinning through history in a rollicking improvised cabaret.

Other works across the city include Canada’sSpeedDatingwith Cacti by Mammalian Diving Reflex at the Royal Botanic Gardens, a playful exploration of consciousness across people, plants, and time, and Runway in the Rainforest at Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium, where fashion designer Aron Katona and fellow artists present designs inspired by tropical wonders.

Melbourne Fringe Creative Director and CEO Simon Abrahams says: “Melbourne Fringe Festival is the city’s creative playground, where artists are free to experiment, take risks, and make work that could only happen here in Melbourne. This year, we’re excited not only to be the home for Melbourne’s independent artists, but also to welcome renowned international artists who are bringing bold, immersive, and thought-provoking experiences to the streets, squares, and venues of our city.” Melbourne Fringe Festival: September 30-October 19. melbournefringe.com.au Cheryl Threadgold

Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

COMMON KNOWLEDGE Confidential

■ Comedian, television host and film star Rosie O'Donnell will make her Australian debut with her new, critically acclaimed show CommonKnowledge.

After its debut in Dublin and direct from the Edinburgh Fringe, the one-woman show will play in Hamer Hall on Sunday October 19 at 2pm.

This show marks the first time Rosie has ever performed in Australia as she reflects on her life in the present, including her longing to visit and perform in Australia, why she moved to Ireland from the USA, and how that shift has shaped her future.

Audiences can expect a night of laughter and reflection from a truly unique voice sharing her opinions on subjects that matter most – here and now.

“I am thrilled that I am finally making the trip to Australia which I have always only dreamed about,” says Rosie

Common Knowledge showcases Rosie O'Donnell’s signature blend of 'heart, humour and honesty', as she promises Australian fans 'an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, surprises, and thought-provoking moments.'

The 11-time Emmy and Tony Award winner will explore everything from pop culture to politics with her trademark spontaneity and sharp observational style and deliver the raw humour that has made her a true icon.

Performance Date: Sunday October 19 at 2pm

Venue: Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne

Bookings: artscentremelbourne.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Other Desert Cities

■ In 2011, American playwright Jon Robin Baitz wrote OtherDesertCitiesaround the lives of an affluent Republican family in Palm Springs, California, during the Presidency of Republican Geoge W Bush, in 2003.

It is Christmas Eve and the Wyeths - Lyman and Polly - are committed Republicans and have invited their son and daughter to their Palm Springs home for Christmas

Both siblings are living their own lives away from the parents; son Trip, a Hollywood reality show producer, and daughter Brooke, a writer who has bought with her a manuscript, her second novel, that threatens to expose family secrets and damage the reputation of the family name and the parents' standingwithin the community and in particular as Republicans.

While the play revolves around Brooke (Jen Bush) and her plans to publish the novel, it is the domineering, sharp-tongued former screenwriter mother Polly (Lindy Yeates) that sets the tone for keeping the manuscript under wraps, while father Lyman (Phil Lambert) once a movie matinee star and now an Ambassador, weighs in considering the consequences of the release of the manuscript.

Giving some relief to the built up tension throughout the dialogue is Polly’s sister Silda (Paula McDonald), a reformed alcoholic, although sneaking a whisky and a smoke has her reasons for publishing the manuscript bringing to the fore a long held family secret.

Level headed son Trip (Liam Gillespie) was strong when telling his sister how selfish and self-centred she is, that most of the so-called events in her manuscript are based on her memory when she was 10 years old.

Heidelberg Theatre Company has an extraordinary wide stage and Director/Set designer Gaetano Santo made full use of its width and depth while providing for a very large functional living room with a distant moun-

● Rosie O’Donnell. Photo: Kip Carroll

tain range backdrop, at times we needed to turn our heads from side to side as if at a tennis match, to follow some of the dialogue.

There were instances where the actors needed to be closer when having robust discussions, rather than metres apart.

Given those comments though, it flowed well to an unexpected ending.

Performance Season: Until September 20 Venue: Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna.

Bookings: htc.org.au

Review by Graeme McCoubrie

Sincere Apologies

■ Alternative Facts brings their quietly subversive participatory performance Sincere Apologies to the 2025 Melbourne Fringe, from October 8-19 at Trades Hall, The Square

Created by award-winning artists Dan Koop, Jamie Lewis and David Williams, SincereApologiesis a show about how we say 'sorry'.

Part theatrical ritual, part social experiment, SincereApologies explores what it means to apologise in a world full of broken systems, failed relationships, and bureaucratic disclaimers.

The work is participatory, gentle, nurturing, community-building and non-judgmental.

Nothing is ever compulsory. With gentle instructions and a surprising sense of camaraderie, audiences slowly help construct the performance – reading aloud, reflecting silently or simply witnessing.

“The show will make you think but it will always, always look after you,” says co-creator David Williams

“It’s a show where everyone will be involved, just a little bit. There are surprises. You will definitely laugh at times. You might occasionally cry a little. We’re in this together.”

Alternative Facts creates theatre works of social relevance, aesthetic rigour and emotional impact –theatre designed to change the world, one person at a time.

Under the leadership of theatre maker David Williams and producer Suzie Franke, Alternative Facts works explore contemporary social life in all its complexity, messiness, beauty, and strangeness.

Venue: Trades Hall – The Square

Dates: October 8 -19

Times: Wed.-Sat., 6pm and 7.30pm;Sun. 5pm and 6.30pm

Tickets: https://melbournefringe.com.au/

Duration: 55 minutes, no interval

Warnings: Occasional coarse language, non-compulsory audience participation. Cheryl Threadgold

Are You There?

■ Theatre Works and Wild Boar Theatre’s premiere season of Are You There? was a beautiful piece of masterful storytelling, a timely dark comedy that gave a bittersweet insight into life in an aged care home.

The home in question was the fictional Autumn Dale Village. There we met three women - Colleen, Pia and Lauren - on an eventful Friday. Pia was the receptionist desperately trying to rein in the chaos, Colleen was a lively active resident while Lauren , also a resident, suffered from dementia and was off in her own world.

The world of the home was captured realistically by Irene Korsten’s script. In terms of structure, language and characterisation her writing was superb. The script never felt forced or artificial and, perhaps most importantly, never judgemental of the lives of these three women. The worker, the able resident and the not-so-able resident each had their stories told and brought to life.

Bringing them to life were three marvellous actresses, Jane Clifton (who played Colleen), Melanie Madrigali (Pia) and Rosemary Johns (Lauren). There was a great dynamic between the three of them and all performed with verve and a quiet confidence. In particular, Johns gave a sympathetic and dignified performance. Limited to saying only the words of the play’s title, her work using movement, gesture and expression was both touching and disturbing.

Performances of such tremendous quality require a great director which Rachel Baring clearly is. She allowed the actresses and script to shine and, consequently, the show was always engaging. Baring astutely varied the pace of the show, with quiet delicate moments of fragility contrasting with the hustle and bustle of life inside Autumn Dale.

AreYouThere?was a magnificent production which captured both the comedy and the tragedy of what it is to live in an aged care home. It is theatre of the highest quality and deserves a life beyond this all-too-brief season.

Venue: Explosives Factory, Rear Laneway 67 Inkerman St, St Kilda Review by

●

Liam Gillespie (Trip) and Jen Bush (Brooke) in Other Desert Cities

Photo: David Belton

Peter Murphy

● ● ● ● Jane Clifton, Rosemary Johns and Melanie Madrigali in Are You There?

Photo: Hannah Jennings.

Local Theatre Observations

Shows

■ Williamstown Little Theatre: The Hollow Crown (by John Barton) Until September 20 at 3-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Peter Newling. Bookings: wlt.org.au/booktickets

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Other Desert Cities (Jon Robin Baitz) Until September 20 at Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Gaetano Santo. Bookings: email boxoffice@ htc.org.au

■ Eltham Little Theatre: The Addams Family, a new musical (Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice). Until September 20 at Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Rd., Research. Director: Isabella Preston. Bookings: elthamlittletheatre.org.au

■ Geelong Repertory Theatre Company: Heartbreak Choir (Aidan Fennessey) Until September 20 at the Woodbin Theatre, 15 Coronation St., Geelong West. Director: Sue Rawkins. Bookings: Geelong Arts Centre 1300 251 200 geelongartscentre.org.au

■ Theatre of the Damned: La Cage Aux Follies. Until September 20 at the Belmont Performing Arts Centre. Director: Elise Dahl; Musical Director: Nathan Firmin; Choreographer: Venessa Paech. Bookings: theatreofthedamnedgeelong.com

■ Essendon Theatre Company: Cosi (by Louis Nowra) Until September 20 at the Bradshaw St. Community Hall, Bradshaw St., West Essendon. Director: Rosalin Shafik-Eid. Bookings: 04064 48368 or trybooking

■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: The Importance of Being Earnest (by Oscar Wilde) Until September 27 at the Lilydale Mechanics’ Institute, Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Katie-Jane Amery. Bookings: lilydaleatc.com

■ NOVA Music Theatre: Chess, September Until September 21 at The Round. Nunawading. Bookings: novamusictheatre. com.au

■ Track Youth Theatre: Midsummer Magic (by Ed Bailey) September 19 – 20 at the Clayton Theatre, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: Sophie Jevons. Bookings: trybooking.com/events/landing/1442403

■ Frankston Theatre Group: Emma (by Jane Austen, adapted by Michael Bloom) September 25 – October 5 at Frankston High School Performing Arts Theatre, 97 Foot Street, Frankston. Director: Candice Mitrousis. Bookings: frankstontheatregroup. com.au

■ The Basin Theatre Group: Dead Man’s Cell Phone (Sarah Ruhl) October 2 – 12 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: John Putman. Bookings: 0494 065 006.

■ The 1812 Theatre: Speaking in Tongues (by Andrew Bovell) October 2 – 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

■ 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

■ 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. Cheryl Threadgold

THE MUTINEERS

■ Monash Uni Student Theatre (MUST MSA) presents TheMutineers, written by emerging playwright Tavisshi Dhawan in The MUST Space at Monash University Clayton from September 18-27.

Co-directed by Tiara Pires and Tavisshi Dhawan, TheMutineers is set in the 1990s at the prestigious Bellview Academy. We follow the journey of two scholarship students as they navigate their shift from humble beginnings into ‘Hellview’s’ complex social environment.

Beneath the school’s polished veneer is a clandestine group of students who meet in secret to speak their truths and form unshakeable connections.

TheMutineersis described as a tale about love, friendship and queer identity in the face of adversity, and the challenges that come with change.

Performance Details: September 18 - 20 at 7.30pm, September 23 - 26 at 7.30pm and September 27 at 5.30pm

Venue: The MUST Space: Grnd Flr, West, Campus Centre, 21 Chancellors Walk, Monash University Clayton (See pin on Google and Apple maps)

Duration: 2 hours 10 mins, incl. interval

Post Show Q and A: September 25; Masked Performance (Audience and Crew) September 23

Content Notes: Homophobia, Bullying, low level violence.

Bookings: eventbrite.com.au/e/the-mutineers-a-new-work-by-tavisshi-dhawan-tickets-1626971087319

Cheryl

Threadgold

Sisters in Crime

● ● ● ● Nilma Rao, author

■ The next Sisters in Crime event is Friday, (Sept. 19) at 8pm at the Rising Sun Hotel, South Melbourne. Dinner is from 6.30pm.

Titled Death Pacificly: Fiji - the tropical scene of crime, a panel discussion will take place regarding Fiji seen not just as with coconut palms, coral reefs, shimmering blue seas and magnificent singing - it is fast becoming the tropical scene of crime.

In conversation with host Leslie FalkinerRose, see what lurks beneath the surface of this Pacific idyll with authors Nilma Rao, Ali Lowe and B.M. Allsopp

Date: Friday, September 19 at 8pm (Panel) Doors open 6.30pm. Dinner available.

Venue: The Rising Sun Hotel, 2 Raglan St., South Melbourne.

Bookings: sistersincrime.org.au/event/ death-pacificly/ Cheryl Threadgold

Til Death (or Court) Do Us Part

■ After three years 'off the boards', focusing on his work as a Marriage Celebrant, Jai Cameron is debuting his first-ever cabaret show in the Melbourne Fringe Festival titled TillDeath(OrCourt)DoUsPartfrom October 1 - 5 at 7pm (Sundays at 6pm) at the Bluestone Church Arts Space, Footscray Jai describes his show as 'Disney meets

Auditions

■ Malvern Theatre Company: The Tin Woman (by Sean Grennan) October 5 and October 6 at 7.30pm at 29 Burke Rd., Malvern. Director: Brett Turner-Valenta. Audition enquiries: bturnsta63@gmail.com

■ 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

Carmina Burana

●

Jane

Magao

■ Readers with good memories may recall a wonderful advertisement for coffee that features a stirring choral call to arms in the cause of buying the right brand of coffee.

That music was the earworm OFortuna, from Carl Orff’s marvellous work for big choral forces, CarminaBurana. It’s a work with so much passion and power, and has often been used in films.

MAFSin this genre-blending show about love, delusion and digital-age heartbreak.'

Keith Maiden, 'a wedding celebrant, professional heart-holder and part-time delusional romantic' is finally getting married himself after two decades of officiating at other people's happily-ever-afters. Keith is marrying an Egyptian prince he met online - who may or may not be real, or alive.

What begins as a joyful celebration of queer love, quickly unravels into a painfully honest deep dive into modern commitment, scammers, rom-com delusions and the true cost of believing in 'forever'.

Featured are songs like Love Boat, White Wedding, Love is in the Air, I Touch Myself, ChapelofLove,MakeYouFeelMyLove,True Colours and RememberMe

Jai Cameron is a qualified Civil Celebrant who has officiated over 30 weddings across Victoria since 2019.

Jai trained at the Victorian College of the Arts Music Theatre Studio (2017) under Trent Baker, David Butler and Phoebe Panaretos, and holds a Graduate Certificate in Business (Arts Management) from Deakin University.

Dates: October 1-5 at 7pm (Sun. 6pm)

Venue: Bluestone Church Arts Space - 8A Hyde St, Footscray VIC 3011

Cost: $22-25

Duration 55 minutes (no interval)

Tickets: melbournefringe.com.au

Rated: MA15+ (Mature Audiences) Cheryl Threadgold

CarminaBuranais being performed live by Melbourne Bach Choir on Friday September 19 at 8pm in the Elisabeth Murdoch Hall at Melbourne Recital Centre

While the text of Carmina Burana sprang from a mediaeval manuscript found in a Bavarian monastery, it deals with very secular themes of life, fate, dancing, drinking, gambling and love making, making it a very worldly piece indeed.

As well as the choral forces of the Melbourne Bach Choir and the Australian Children’s Choir, it features soloists soprano Jane Magao, baritone Christopher Hillier and tenor Robert Macfarlane – all names well known to Melbourne opera lovers.

The forces will be conducted by MBS conductor Rick Prakhoff, and accompanied by pianists Elyane Laussade and Kathryn Pisani, with percussion.

It promises to be a night where the music lifts off the roof.

Tickets are available from melbournerecital.com.au

Julie Houghton

Troy

■ It must say something about our culture that we can keep reviving millennia-old stories and present them in a new light.

Tom Wright’s Troy, directed by Ian Michael, reimagines Homer’s epic Iliad Troy opens with a column of sand pouring onto Dann Barber’s brilliant amphitheatre as if slowly reclaiming this ancient monument.

Elizabeth Blackmore’s rebellious teen Cassandra incites the god Apollo’s (Danny Ball) fury and is cursed.

A gift of prophecy wasted; her words twist with every warning she gives.

Among the soon-to-be ruins of an ancient civilisation, we meet Queen Hecuba (Paula Arundell), Queen Clytemnestra (Geraldine Hakewill), King Agamemnon (Mark Leonard Winter), their daughter Iphigenia (Ciline Ajobong), the hero Achilles (also Danny Ball ), and his lover Patroclus (Lyndon Watts)

Wright frequently pulls us out of the moment, reflecting on the story in the present. The lone symbol of protest against war, teen rebel Cassandra, vents her frustration at her helplessness to the audience.

Archaeologist podcasters in this millennium sit in ancient sands and muse about the past.

The infamous Trojan Horse, fantastically reimagined as a giant, ominous black balloon, dominates the stage.

The invasion of Troy is imminent. Spectacular, frightening air blasts, sirens, guns, and helicopter sounds evoke the chaos as the bodies pile up.

In place of the chorus, a singer (Lyndon Watts) performs melancholic laments.

The cast works hard to bring all elements together and mostly succeeds.

Wright’s reinterpretation of Iphigenia as a fanatic sacrificing herself out of free will is a misstep.

It excuses Agamemnon’s calculated decision to surrender his daughter in pursuit of calm seas.

This shift weakens Clytemnestra’s notorious fury, and although the narrative ends up in the same place, her motive becomes unclear. That said, this ambitious mythic work glimmers.

Until September 25 at the Malthouse Theatre

Bookings: malthousetheatre.com.au

Review by Kathryn Keeble

● ● Wynter Dallas, Sophie Foster, Lachlan Robertson, Sam Pringle, Bridget Hyde, Lucas Lines, Jada-Li Crossey, Marcus Ledger, Dominic Hartano, Vedant Pithia rehearse The Mutineers. Photo: Lisa Baker.

● ● Jai Cameron in Til Death (or Court) Do Us Part

Photo: Jeremy Guzman

● ● Cheryl and Malcolm Threadgold were pictured by Mark Gambin oat the opening night of the Lark

In Memory of

CATO THE WISE Maxwell Newton

★ The opening night of Rebecca, with Nikki Shiels and Pamela Rabe, will take place at the Southbank Theatre on Saturday, October 4.

★The irish Film Festival will have an opening night in Melbourne on October 23 at The Kino, with season extending until October 26

★Cluedo cast members, start ing at the Comedy Theatre in February, will include Genevieve Lemon, Craig McLachlan and Grant Piro

★Clint Stanaway will depart Channel 9 at the end of this year to focus on radio full-time at NOVA 100 with Jase Hawkins and Lauren Phillips.

★ The Australian, New Zealand and Asian Creative Arts Therapies Association welcomes the Duckett Review’s recognition of art therapy as an evidence-based therapeutic support that can significantly benefit National Disability Insurance Scheme participants.

★Lachlan Murdoch has won control of the News-Fox empire after settling a dispute about the Murdoch Family Trust with his siblings.

★Zoos Victoria is asking for ‘citizen scientists’ for help to track Endangered Bogong Moths as they migrate across the nation to the alpine regions this Spring.

★Rob Thomas is set to return to Australian stages with The All Night Days Tour. Shannen James will join him for the soldout Melbourne shows at The Forum on October 29-31.

★Chelsea Skatepark will host Kingston’s ultimate skate and scooter showdown - Skate of Mind - this Sunday (Sep. 21).

★Cancer Council Victoria is calling on women to rally their girlfriends, sisters, mums, and mates from september to November for Girls’ Night In, and help fund research and support for women’s cancers.

★Elmo’s Circus Dream is off to Westfield Fountain Gate from September 19 – October 12.

★Jetts Fitness Victoria clubs and leaders have achieved major success at The Gathering, Jetts annual awards night, bringing home two prestigious national awards. Victoria national winners were Angelique Woods, Cranbourne West and Templestowe

★TAC is paying barbers to fit seat belts to their chairs and lecture male drivers on wearing car seat belts.

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Rourke’s Reviews Entertainment

★Australia's first and only Sondheim repertory company

Watch This will present new work Colour & Light: The Art of Stephen Sondheim at Theatre Works, opening on Friday (Sep. 19).

★ Melbourne is to host Australia’s largest gastroenterology conference. The Gastroenterology Society of Australia and the World Gastroenterology Organisation and the have partnered to deliver the largest gastroenterology and hepatology conference in Australia.It will take place from September 19-22 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

★Murrindindi Film Society will this Friday (Sep. 19) close its season with the 2002 American romantic drama The Shipping News. Doors at the yea Butter Factory open at 6.45pm with the screening to begin at 7pm. Prospective members and first time guests will be admitted free of charge.

★With 70 events across week, Melbourne International Games Week includes plenty of surprises for gamers at every level plus all the industry must-haves and international guests.

★The Australian Communica tions and Media Authority has found Triple M licensees in breach of decency rules due to comments broadcast on the Marty Sheargold Show about women’s sport. The stations contravened the Commercial Radio Code of Practice by allowing derogatory language and sexist themes to be broadcast on the program.

★Melbourne Symphony Orchestra brings Disney’s beloved animated classic Beauty and the Beast to life in a spectacular live to film concert experience on Friday-Saturday, April 1011 next year, at Hamer Hall.

★ Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show will start in Melbourne on December 30 before moving onto other capital cities.

★The second annual Melbourne Pinball Expo is returning on November 7–9 at the Matthew Flinders Hotel, Chadstone.

★Some 33 finalists from around Australia have been selected for the 2025 Live Well, Die Well Art Prize, a Palliative Care Australia initiative.

★Cardinia Cultural Centre presents Eighty Years of Earth, Clay & Fire, celebrating the legacy of Robert Gordon Pottery, one of Australia’s most iconic ceramic and family-run businesses. The Pottery has shaped the ceramics landscape for three generations.

New artwork at Sunshine

■ Brimbank Council has unveiled plans for a significant new public artwork at the H.V. McKay Memorial Gardens in Sunshine, to be created by the acclaimed contemporary art collective, Monash Art Projects. Titled TheBirds(Sunshine), the project will see the installation of six sculptural birdbaths created from honed granite, bluestone and bronze.

Drawing inspiration from the industrial heritage of the Sunshine Harvester Works and the surrounding basalt plains, the sculptures will provide a functional and artistic habitat for local birdlife, while offering the community new ways to engage with the H.V. McKay Memorial Gardens’ unique natural and cultural history.

Monash Art Projects is a collaborative studio recognised for innovative, research-driven approaches to public art that bring together architecture, ecology, sculpture, and storytelling.

Collaborating on the development of this work are prominent artists Callum Morton (MAP Director), Jen Berean (MAP Associate Director) and Linda Tegg

The sculptural forms in TheBirds (Sunshine) are adapted from the Sunshine Harvester Company’s original parts catalogue, reassembled as modernist compositions reminiscent of Cubist collages. The work offers a poetic response to the machine age, reimagining industrial forms as vessels for care, regeneration, and connection with nature.

The new public artwork is scheduled for installation in mid-2026 and is supported through Brimbank Council’s Public Art Program

Brimbank Mayor, Cr Thuy Dang, said: “Council is pleased to be adding to the public art in Brimbank with a meaningful sculptural piece named The Birds that will be installed in Sunshine next year for everyone to enjoy.

“The Birds will connect deeply with the legacy of H.V. McKay and the site’s industrial past while looking forward - creating something that is both reflective and functional for our community and its environment.

“Public art brings people together, sparks conversation, and helps us see the world differently - and in Brimbank, we are proud to support work that strengthens our community in such powerful and lasting ways,” said Cr Dang.

The Birds (Sunshine) extends Monash Art Projects recent project TheBirds(MUMA), commissioned by Monash University Museum of Art (2024–2025), which featured carved boulders shaped to collect water for birds on campus.

That work explored Victoria’s geological diversity while foregrounding the needs of non-human species in urban design.

The Sunshine project will build on these learnings with new research into local avian life and site-responsive design.

■ Callum Morton is one of Australia’s most respected contemporary artists. Known for large-scale public sculptures and interventions, his work bridges architecture and narrative. His artworks are held in major collections including the National Gallery of Victoria, MONA and the MCA

■ Linda Tegg is an artist whose immersive installations explore multispecies relationships and ecological restoration. She represented Australia at the 2018 Venice Architecture Biennale.

■ Jen Berean is a designer and artist working across disciplines to examine systems, urban life, and material histories. Her collaborative work often explores spatial practice and environmental care.

The

Conjuring

- Last Rites

■ (MA). 135 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.

Touted as (supposedly) the last in the core franchise, this latest entry throws plenty of familiar elements into the mix, but strangely forgets to bring the actual horror, instead concentrating too much on soapy family drama and obvious spin-off set-ups.

Beginning in 1964, we see a young Lorraine and Ed Warren (played here by Madison Lawlor and Orion Smith) in the infancy of their careers as paranormal investigators.

The case involves a haunted mirror, and its power sends a heavily pregnant Lorraine into early labour, and the evil presence almost takes the baby’s life.

We then cut to 1986, where Lorraine and Ed (now played by regulars Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson) have taken a back seat to the spirit world, due to Ed’s heart condition, and the pair concentrating on their now-grown daughter Judy (Mia Tomlinson), who, surprise, surprise, has the same gift as her mother.

Judy is seeing the good-hearted Tony (Ben Hardy), who is nervous about meeting her famous parents, especially Ed, who is yet to be convinced he may be the person for his beloved child.

His concerns increase when Tony asks Judy to marry him. While this is happening, the Smurl family are dealing with a terrifying haunting that suddenly affects their household, starting when the parents buy a present for one of their daughters who has just had her confirmation.

That present: the mirror the Warrens encountered decades before.

Though initially hesitant, the Warrens eventually take on the case, mainly because Judy inadvertently becomes involved, and this will see the whole family (along with Tony) teaming up to defeat the dangerous demon.

TheConjuring:LastRitesbasically repeats the second film, but fails to introduce its afflicted family in a way that allows the audience to engage in their plight.

All we get are moments that are tired and highly predictable. Most of the time is spent on the impending marriage of Judy and Tony

This would be fine if the drama and terror were better balanced, but the writing is just not good enough to warrant so much attention on the pair, not helped by the fact that it is so apparent that the producers want the young, soonto-be betrothed, couple to carry on the franchise in MCU fashion.

The Exorcist (and the original Conjuring) was much better at examining its human characters before hitting us with the horror; here it feels more like template filler.

Those turning up for plenty of scares will need to wait for around 80 minutes, but even then they are few and far between, and fans will see them coming a mile away.

Along with TheConjuring2and The Exorcist, other films that come to mind during this overlong film are Poltergeist2,Constantine and TheOmen Michael Chaves , who helmed the hokey, forgettable Part 3, as well as the equally second-rate The Curse Of The Weeping

Woman (2019) and The Nun 2 (2023), again relies on tiresome tropes and cliches to elicit frights, and while generally slick (apart from the CGI blood and ghosts), presents the story in that now overly-used jittery cam method. What keeps one remotely interested in the film is the main cast.

Farmiga and Wilson again offer solid performances, and still manage to give their characters some kind of foundation even as the scripts get flimsier and flimsier.

Tomlinson and Hardy are likeable, but their characters feel more like spin-off tools rather than actual people.

No one else really gets a chance to make an impression. Less a horror film and more a variation on FatherOfTheBridewith a ghost story attached, The Conjuring: Last Rites is slightly better than its predecessor, but remains a huge disappointment.

As it all comes to an end (?), we are already picturing the next instalment, The Conjuring : The NextGeneration.

RATING - **

Companion

■ (MA). 97 minutes. Now available on Blu-ray and DVD.

Exploring the dangers of everevolving technology, Companionis a nice surprise, providing a smart sense of humour and good performances.

Sophie Thatcher plays Iris, an old-fashioned young woman who is devoted to her boyfriend Josh (Jack Quaid) , who seems to appreciate her commitment to their relationship.

Driving to a remote, luxury house for a relaxing getaway with friends, the two enjoy their surroundings, but things turn sour after a sudden, unexpected confrontation.

The less viewers know going in, the better. Even if you know what the main twist is, it shouldn’t dampen the film’s entertainment value.

Debutant writer/director Drew Hancock establishes his premise well enough to build on, and by using comedy more than horror, does tap into a mindset that is increasing in uncomfortable fashion, in regards to how men view women, with an ingrained sense of control and entitlement that has lead to worrying levels of misogyny.

Thatcher is excellent, while Quaid does well with his role. One could see Companionas the genre alternative to Barbie RATING - **** Aaron Rourke

Rourke

Today’s Menu

Charcuterie Boards:

Tapas Bar Home-Made Desserts

Great Range of Cocktails and Mocktails Available.

Teas and Coffees

Don’t forget our Famous Devonshire Tea

■ Arlene Dahl was born in Minneapolis in 1925 and broke into films after Warner Brothers studio boss Jack Warner saw her onstage in a Broadway show.

Arlene made her screen debut in Lifewith Father. Her beauty and flaming red hair made her a favourite of filmgoers in the 1940s and 1950s.

1953 was a very busy year for Arlene , she made five films, was writing a beauty column and designing lingerie.

She co-starred with Red Skelton in two films and thought he was a funny and marvellous person, despite his practical jokes such as throwing a “stink bomb” into her dressing room.

Robert Taylor was the most handsome and thoughtful man Arlene worked with in her career.

When filming Ambush with Robert Taylor in 1949 she confided in him, that when she was a teenager, she had written to him at MGM and received a signed photo. Arlene was not sure if it actually was Robert who had signed it.

The following day two dozen roses and a package arrived at her dressing room. Inside was a personally signed photo of Robert Taylor in a sterling silver frame and a present of a small carved ivory Buddha statue.

The attached note read “Greta Garbo gave this statue to me when we were filming Camille for good luck and I’m giving it to you for the same reason, love Robert.”

Some of her best films were Sangaree,

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Whatever Happened To ... Arlene Dahl

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

Woman’sWorld, SlightlyScarletand Journey totheCentreoftheEarth

Arlene’s personal favourite is Women’s World

Arlene was married six times and her husbands included Lex Barker and Fernando Lamas.

Over the years she was very successful in the lingerie and cosmetic business.

Arlene wrote many books and an astrology column.

Arlene would have preferred to be known as a Broadway performer rather than a film star.

We heard her beautiful singing voice on screen when she sang ILoveYouSoMuch in the 1950 MGM musical ThreeLittleWords

During her career Arlene toured in many stage musicals such as TheKingandI, Applauseand ALittleNightMusic. She guest starred in many of the popular American television series and played an ongoing role in the soap opera AllMyChildren

Sadly, Arlene Dahl passed away in 2021 at the age of 96.

SYMBOLS AT SULLIVAN AND STRUMPF

Symbols – Ry David Bradley Sullivan & Strumpf is presenting a solo exhibition of new paintings from London/Paris-based Melbourne artist Ry David Bradley, on now at their Melbourne gallery.

A continuation of his latest body of works, first presented at Carl Kostyal, London, earlier this year, as a prelude to his major Lyn House museum exhibition Epoch – now until May 2026; Symbolsmarks a significant turning point in Bradley’s artistic trajectory, in which he calls for pause and reflection: on how we engage with the digital, and what it means to exist within a hyper-digital movement.

Ry David Bradley’s practice is driven by a longstanding investigation into what painting can mean in the 21st century.

One of a handful pf international artists immersed in the digital revolution, for 20 years he has worked at the intersection of digital and traditional methods.

Advancing provocations around the nature of image-making by combining pixels with oil paint and the gestural marks of the artist’s hand; constructing of image- constructing works that deliberately blur and destabilise the boundaries between the two, these hybrids, in history and speculation refuse to collapse into one another , existing instead in a space of productive tension.

Born in Melbourne in 1979, Ry David Bradley lives and works in London, Paris and Melbourne

He holds a Master of Fine Art from the Victorian College of the Arts,, University of Melbourne, and has exhibited extensively in galleries and museums in Australia and internationally, including art fairs in New York, London, Milan, Los Angeles, Berlin and Paris

His work is represented in major public and private collections including the National Gallery of Victoria, the Herning Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Lyon House museum.

Exhibition closes September.

MAPh

The Wayward Girls –

Deborah Paauwe

Deborah Paauwe’s latest series

The Wayward Girls delicately explores the intricate interplay between childhood , adolescence and adulthood.

The artist created these images as the recipient of the Wai Tang

The

Arts

with Peter Kemp

Commissioning Award, and one work from the series will be acquired into MAPh collection.

Paauwe’s work is characterised by an evocative use of textiles and fabric, which serve as both medium and metaphor, weaving narratives that resonate with subtle complexity an profound sensitivity.

In her compositions, muted colours and pastel tones create a dreamlike ambience, inviting viewers into a world where the boundaries of age and identity are both distinct and blurred.

Exhibition closes November 9.

MAPh

860 Ferntree Gully Rd, Wheelers Hill

Now open

Gallery Applications now open.

Looking to be a part of the 2026 St Heliers Gallery exhibition program?

Applications are now open for this fantastic opportunity, suitable for artists of all stages.

From early career to established, exhibit your work at Australia’s largest arts and cultural precinct.

Immerse yourself in the creative community at Abbotsford Convent and share your work with a diverse and growing audience.

Proposals are welcomed for solo or group exhibitions for visual and audio -visual arts, sound , design, multi and new media, craft, live ar, and performance. Apply by Sunday October 19.

Abbotsford Convent Gallery

1 St Heliers S, Abbotsford

Collingwood

Disco Inferno- – Karla Marchesi

Combing centuries-old vanitas traditions and the aesthetics of Baroque art with the glitz of 1970s disco, DiscoInfernoexplores fleeting pleasures in a hypermediated, economically anxious age.

Borrowing its title from The Trammps 1976 hit, the exhibition presents botanical arrangements poised in delicate tension, between surface and substance, desire and decay, delight and disillusionment.

Berlin based Karla Marchesi has Bachelor of Fine Art (2004) and Honours in fine Art (2007) degrees from the Queensland College of Art, Griffith University , where she received the University Medal for academic excellence and the Honours Thesis Prose.

Marchesi received the Philip Bacon Galleries Prize for Excellence in Drawing in 2003, enabling her to study for a semester at the Pennsylvania academy of Fine Arts USA.

Exhibition closes September 27.

Nicholas Thompson Gallery 155 Langridge St. Collingwood

Peter Kemp

Musica Viva

■ Musica Viva Australia's 2026 season features seven national tours, six premieres and 49 concerts across six states and territories

The program includes international artists like the Doric String Quartet and Paul Lewis alongside Australian performers such as Lloyd Van't Hoff and Genevieve Lacey

The season opens with A Winter'sJourney, featuring British tenor Allan Clayton performing Schubert's Winterreise with animated artworks by Fred Williams

It eatures several premieres including new works by Australian composer Melody Eötvös and British composer Charlotte Bray Contributed

Divorce after Kiss Cam

■ Kristin Cabot was the HR senior executive who attended a Coldplay concert in America where she hooked up with the CEO of same company where she worked. As a couple their affection was played out on 'Kiss Cam' during the concert. Within hours the video was flashed across the news services around the world. Whoops, the couple were married to other people. Kristen and the CEO both resigned. Latest news is that Kristin has filed for divorce from hefr current husband. Next could be a soapie of whole shebang.

Acting is all in the family

■ The McConaughey family are famous for their involvement in films and the creative arts. Matthew McConaughey, his Mum, his wife all have many credits to their names, and now Matthew's 17-year-old son Levi has made his debut in a film produced by Jaime Lee Curtis, called TheLast Bus. The film was screened at the Toronto International Film Festival and is slated to appear shortly through screening services. Levi is a good-looking teen with a friendly attitude and destined for more roles.

Kate and daughter

■ There's no stopping UK model Kate Moss, now 51. Her latest gig is hosting a six-part podcast about her friend David Bowie for replay on BBC Radio 6, tracing Bowie from 1970-75 including previously unheard-of tracks. Kate's daughter, Lisa, now 23, is also into modelling, appearing in a launch video for the latest Barbie Doll - an educational doll for girls suffering from diabetes. The link is Lisa has Diabetes 1.

On the beers?

■ No secret that Travis Kelce is soon to wed Taylor Swift. Travis is a shrewd investor and along with his brother Jason owns the controlling interest in a light beer brewery called Garage Beer. Consumption of light beer is on the rise in America . One reliable financial institution has valued Garage Beer being worth $200 million. The big question is whether Garage Beer will be the official brand at the wedding of the year

Attracting toursist

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Observer Melbourne Lovatts Crossword No 11

Across Across Down Down

1. More droopy

6. Dig

11. Legendary gold city (2,6)

15. Having a poor ear for pitch (4-4)

20. Relations

21. Undue speed

22. Pen name, ... de plume

23. Gleefully chuckles

24. Tent supports (3,5)

25. Jesus' home town

27. Singing with trills

28. Prima donna

29. Writer, ... Thomas

31. The O of PTO

32. A wolf in ... clothing (5'1)

36. ANC hero, Nelson ...

37. Within house

38. Lovely

41. Dutch centre of govt, The ...

44. Fishing-line fibre

45. Sample

48. Way of life

49. Very busy

52. Goose & ...

56. Out-of-vogue star (3-4)

57. Small stone

58. Most uptight

61. Arduous experience

62. Foretold

63. West African nation, Sierra ...

64. Warms

65. Fools

66. Cleaver

67. Without artifice

71. Toadstools

73. Silly

75. Catastrophes

80. Ignore

82. Ice-cream desserts

83. Globes

85. Acting as go-between

86. Treat cruelly (3-3)

88. African disease fly

90. Nourishing drinks (3,5)

91. Bible song

93. Current flow rating

94. Interjectors

95. Ski headwear accessory

96. Military flying facility (3,4)

97. No part

99. Burial vault

100. Removed from power

104. Hoist (flag)

105. Cat cry

106. Of sheep

107. Leaseholders

111. Slightly wet

113. Crab's pinch

114. Have

115. Wrath

117. Pitch tent

118. Should, ... to

121. Tribal post, ... pole

122. Moved slowly

125. Field

126. Jump high

127. The ... of Capri

129. Assistant

131. Opposed to

132. Releases grip (4,2)

135. Among

136. Emerald Isle

139. Hordes

140. Scolded

144. Eagle's nest

145. Chick's call

146. Aimed

147. Disengage (train carriages)

148. Splendid (mansion)

149. Public square

150. Lacking originality

152. Customary

154. Baton races

157. Flying saucers (1,1,2)

158. Blabs

162. Matching outfit

163. Meagre

166. Flag down (cab)

167. Speech defect

169. Butterfly catchers

171. Biblical you

172. US moon rocket

173. Composer, Andrew ... Webber

175. Cloth fold

176. Chock

179. Culminate in (4,2)

180. Wash lightly

182. Recline, ... down

183. Repetitive strain injury (1,1,1)

184. Grind (meat)

186. Powder, ... of Paris

189. Thread

190. Peace pact

191. Sense receptor

192. Said

196. Tenant's payment

197. Bellow

198. Vermouth cocktail

199. Remnants

201. Playing for time

202. Harvesters

203. Roof overhangs

204. Last Russian tsar

205. Entangle

208. To the rear

210. Bridge designer

211. Sector

212. Outdoors (4-3)

213. Sinks in middle

215. Unfavoured horses

219. Lead-in

221. Sunday joint

223. Not perfumed

227. Juvenile

228. Ambassador's office

230. Move with effort

231. Cut wildly

232. Pillages

233. Mutilate

234. Admire

238. Delighted

239. First

240. Meal

243. Approval

246. Loosen

247. Dough ingredient

250. Corn husks

251. Out of style

253. Laughing scavengers

256. Frequent visitor

257. Female betrothed

258. Cease

262. Spy, ... Hari

263. Steak cut (1-4)

266. Ark builder

268. WA wine-growing region, ... River

269. Business income

270. Artist's medium (3,5)

271. Sewer coverings

272. Born as

273. Man-made fabric

274. Raises (the ante)

275. Climbs down

276. London/Edinburgh express, Flying ...

277. Lacy robe

278. Roomy

1. Confronts

2. Holed atmosphere layer

3. Erect (3,2)

4. ... out a living

5. Coming up (of sun)

7. Red pepper spice

8. Brutal

9. Michael Flatley's Lord of ... (3,5)

10. Simple

11. Famous volcano

12. Inclinations

13. Continually (2,3,2)

14. Phenomenal

15. Turrets

16. Actor, ... Sharif

17. Fire fragment

18. Remove from home

19. Misty

24. Pastime

26. Multitude

30. Lounges about

33. Barn dance

34. Distinguished

35. Actor, Sam ...

38. Ringing (of bell)

39. Nudged

40. Drama venue

42. Afresh

43. Unties

46. Junkies

47. Compared to

49. Cooperative

50. Top of head

51. List down

53. Non-believer in God

54. Roman moon goddess

55. Staff schedules

59. Proximity

60. Able to be rubbed out

67. Uncared-for 68. Traffic jam (5-2)

69. Undoes (envelope)

70. Sly suggestion

72. Opening

74. Telling

76. Debatable

77. Energies

78. Copy

79. Siblings

81. Until now

84. Mattress frame

87. Paint thinners

89. Called

91. Autocue

92. Insane lady

98. Fireplace shelf

101. TV host, ... Dingo

102. Egg shapes

103. Give work to

108. Stoat

109. Colloquial language

110. Inspire

112. Inventiveness

116. Feared Mongolian ruler (7,4)

119. Inattentive

120. Grotesquely

123. Small coffee cup

124. Welcoming

128. Clinging gastropods

130. Hero-worship

132. Feebler

133. Fish commercially

134. Survive (3,2)

137. Turn out

138. Disgust

141. Granny Smith fruit

142. Cogwheel set

143. Personal memoirs

151. On dry land

153. Lucky charm

155. Dismiss (from college)

156. Map book

159. Desire for food

160. Tethered (4,2)

161. Pleads

164. Swiftly

165. Fluid unit

168. Laziness

170. Glimmers

173. Unused portion

174. Public referee

177. Filth

178. Coming into view

181. Water (pasture)

185. River flows

186. Allspice

187. Orange/pink shade

188. Libya's capital

193. Afternoon break

194. Vote back into office (2-5)

195. Wanted

200. Uniformity

201. Divide

206. Not either

207. Car horns

208. Takes into custody

209. Type of spanner

211. Appoints

214. Sultan's wife

216. Sissy

217. Austere

218. Disappoints

220. Hobo

222. Conscious (of fact)

224. Held tenderly

225. Subtleties of meaning

226. Infinite

229. Famous US university

232. Army dining room

235. And so forth (2,6)

236. Greek philosopher

237. Coffee drug

241. Legal trade ban

242. Lawsuits

244. Surgical blade

245. Kissing & cuddling

248. Eases off

249. Which

251. Repressed, ... up

252. Postage stickers

253. Hot & damp

254. Gains

255. Proverb

259. Moral principle

260. Eskimo hut

261. Cricket matches

262. Fix

264. Roughage

265. Midday

267. Padlock clasp

By Rob Foenander info@robfomusic.com.au

Pop Choir

■ Melbourne’s Pop Choir will release their new single StrongerThanBlood with the aim to create awareness for Parkinson’s disease.

Funds raised will support Shake It Up Australia Foundation.

Hundreds of Pop Choir members will perform the single along with other popular songs in a free concert on the Main Stage of Federation Square in Melbourne on Friday September 19 from 7pm to 8pm.

Donations to www.popchoir.com.au/ shakeitupfoundation

Simeon’s night

■ Melbourne artist Simeon Boyadjiev along with the Solid Snakes band will bring to life the classic songs of David Bowie, Toto, Yes and a host of other legendary groups and music royalty.

Plus expect a few original tunes also.

The Parish Hall in Northcote will play host to the evening on Friday, October 24, commencing 8pm.

Tickets $40 and BYO.

Suzi is back

■ The country rocker from Switzerland, Suzi Croner, returns to Melbourne and will rock the Grand on Princes Mulgrave on Saturday, October 25.

Local band No Limit will also feature on the night for what’s become an annual must go-to event.

A buffet dinner and drinks are included for $85 per ticket.

More info: Bertie 0414 979 483 or Frank 0414 979 401. Rob Foenander

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

OAM presented to Maggie Morrison

Crossword Solution No 11

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Recognition

■ Melbourne Observerreviewer Maggie Morrison was joined by family at Government house, Melbourne, to proudly receive her Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) from the Governor of Victoria, Margaret Gardner. Maggie's citation for her Award reads: 'For services to the performing arts through theatre'. Maggie has shared her love of drama with students for over 50 years in schools in Kew, Caulfield, Mentone, Warragul and RMIT, Bundoora, and initiated the innovative travelling theatre project at Mentone Girls' Secondary College in the 1980s.

Since 2013, Maggie has been the dedicated Artistic Director of the theatre company she co-founded - Legends of the Skies (LOTS) Theatre Inc. - co-writing and directing annual aviation history productions at the Moorabbin Air Museum.

Maggie has been an honorary theatre reviewer for the Melbourne Observersince 2014. Congratulations, Maggie Cheryl Threadgold

● ● ● Maggie Morrison OAM (second from left) with children Chloe (left), Lachlan and Tallulah at Government House, Melbourne.

Maggie Morrison OAM with State Governor Margaret Gardner.

(Back load Specialist. Conditions apply)

24 HOURS7 DAYS A WEEK

(Scrap bin available)

SATURDAY’S LOCAL FOOTBALL SIREN SCORES

Amateurs

■ Victorian Amateur Football Association. Premier Men’s. Finals Round 1. Old Scotch 12.10 (82) d St Kevin’s 8.11 (59). Old Brighton 13.15 (93) d Old Xaverians 9.6 (60).

Premier Men’s Reserves. Finals Round 1. Old Xaverians 14.11 (95) d St Kevin’s 9.5 (59). Old Brighton 14.6 (90) d University Blues 9.11 (65).

Premier B Men’s. Preliminary Final. Caulfield Grammarians 19.7 (121) d Old Ivanhoe 9.8 (62).

Premier B Men’s Reserves. Preliminary Final. Fitzroy 11.12 (78) d old ivanhoe 4.5 (29).

Premier C Men’s. Sunday, September 14. Preliminary Final. Parkdale Vultures v AJAX.

Premier C Men’s Reserves. Sunday, September 14. Preliminary Final. Beaumaris v St Bedes/Mentone.

Division 1 Men’s. Sunday, September 14. Grand Final. Ormond v Old Peninsula. Division 1 Men’s Reserves. Sunday,

Showbiz Extra

The 39 Steps

■ The timing is immaculate, the immersion immediate and the story almost immaterial which all speaks to the physically chaotic fun of Patrick Barlow’s adaption of John Buchan’s The39Steps Richard Hannnay (Ian Stenlake) must foil a spy ring. Lisa McCune plays the femme fatale, the dour Scotsman’s wife and Pamela, the love interest that Hannay meets along the way, and the Umbilical Brothers (David Collins, Shane Dundas), completely in their element, play every other role.

Damien Ryan’s direction teases and toys with all the conventions of sound and lighting (Matthew Marshall, Brady Watkins) and revels in the anarchic fun that is both an acknowledgement of dramatic propriety and a breaking of those strictures.

The lighting and sound go wrong all at the right time. This takes skill to achieve the comic effect.

James Brown’s set with its use of back projection plays into those same conventions. The tonal simplicity of the palette, and flats being both flown and slid across the stage allows for space to be curtained and contained. The simplicity of it all is where the dramatic creativity lies.

And the cast revel in the opportunity provided by the play’s playfulness. Collins and Dundas are masters of physical theatre.

They seem to be able to switch roles effortlessly, instantly and convincingly. The exchange of hats is a tour de force of timing and coordination.

McCune and Stenlake know precisely how far they can take the melodrama, the comedy and how best to milk the routine. They seem to be completely comfortable with their accents and within the skin of the characters they inhabit.

Barlow’s adaption is really an acknowledgement of theatrical form and it licences actors to work the stage as well as styles of theatre.

It is also a coordination of all those theatrical elements which equally impact on the outcome. Sound, lighting, set and cast must all work in tandem. Nothing is static. And all this enlivens the audience.

Performance Season: Until October 4

Venue: Comedy Theatre, Melbourne

Bookings: Ticketek

Review by David McLean

September 14. Grand Final. Oakleigh v Ormond.

Division 2 Men’s. Sunday, September 14. Grand Final. Old Yarra Cobras v St Mary’s salesian.

Division 2 Men’s Reserves. Sunday, September 14. Grand Final. West Brunswick v St Mary’s Salesian.

Division 3 Men’s. Sunday, September 14. Grand Final. Power House v North Brunswick. Division 3 Men’s Reserves. Sunday, September 14. Grand Final. Power house v Richmond Central.

Eastern

■ Eastern Football League. Premier Division Seniors. Preliminary Final. Blackburn 18.5 (113) d Rowville 8.15 (63).

Division 1 Seniors. Sunday, September 14. Grand Final. Park Orchards v South Belgrave.

Division 2 Seniors. Grand Final. Wantirna South 14.12 (96) d Templestowe 14.11 (95).

Division 2 Seniors. Grand Final.Scoresby 9.16 (70) d Donvale 10.8 (68).

Division 4 Seniors. Grand Final. Whitehorse Pioneers 9.11 (65) d Chirnside Park 8.9 (57).

Essendon

■ Premier Division. Sunday, September 14. Preliminary Final. Keilor v Airport West. Division 1. Grand Final. Hillside 9.12 (66) d Oak Park 5.14 (44).

Division 2. Grand Final. R upertswood 8.13 (61) d Westmeadows 8.10 (58).

Mornington

■ Mornington Peninsula Nepean Football Netball League. Division 1 Seniors. Sunday, September 14. Preliminary Final. Frankston YCW v Mt Eliza.

Division 1 Reserves. Sunday, September 14. Preliminary Final. Rosebud v Frankston YCW.

Division 1 Under 19. Sunday, September 14. Preliminary Final. Editbvale Aspendale v Langwarrin.

Division 2 Seniors. Grand Final. Devon Meadows 10.6 (66) d Frankston Bombers 8.13 (61).

Division 2 Reserves. Grand Final. Frankston Bombers 9.6 (60) d Somerville 8.9 (57).

Division 2 Under 19. Grand Final. Seaford 5.7 (37) d Frankston Bombers 4.7 (31).

Northern

■ Northern Football Netball League. Division 1 Seniors. Sunday, September 14. Preliminary Final. Greensborough v Hurstbridge.

Division 1 Reserves. Sunday, September 14. Preliminary Final. Eltham v West Preston Lakeside.

Division 1 Under 19.5. Sunday, September 14. Preliminary Final. Eltham v Diamond Creek.

Division 2 Seniors. Grand Final. Diamond Creek 20.21 (141) d Macleod 5.4 (34).

Division 2 Reserves. Grand Final. Whittlesea 9.8 (62) d Diamond Creek 7.8 (50).

Division 2 Under 19.5. North Heidelberg 16.9 (105) d Whittlesea 8.6 (54).

Outer East

■ Outer East. Premier Division Seniors. Sunday, September 14. Preliminary Final. Olinda Ferny Creek v Woori Yallock.

Premier Division Reserves. Sunday, September 14. Preliminary Final. Upwey Tecoma v Officer.

Division 1 Seniors. Grand Final. Warburton Millgrove 6.16 (52) d Seville 6.12 (48).

Division 1 Reserves. Grand Final. Alexandra 9.6 (60) d Seville 7.8 (50).

Southern

■ Division 1 Seniors. Preliminary Final. Cheltenham 7.10 (58) d St Paul’s McKinnon 4.6 (30).

Division 2 Seniors. Grand Final. Hampton Park 16.13 (109) d Chelsea Heights 8.8 (56).

Division 3 Seniors. Sunday, September 14. Grand Final. St kilda City v Hampton. Division 4 Seniors. Saturday, September 6. Grand Final. Hallam 11.6 (72) d Dandenong West 8.9 (57).

Western

■ Division 1 Seniors. Preliminary Final. Caroline Springs 11.16 (82) d Yarraville Seccoin Eagles 75.

Division 2 Seniors. Grand Final. Wyndhamvale 13.2 (80) d North Footscray 6.9 (45).

Goulburn Valley

■ Seniors. Sunday, September 14. Finals Round 3. Rochester v Mansfield. Reserves. Sunday, September 14. Finals Round 3. Mansfield v Seymour. Under 18. Sunday, September 14. Finals Round 3. Mooroopna v Echuca.

Kyabram District

■ Seniors. Grand Final. Murchison Toolamba 13.9 987) d Lancaster 12.13 (85). Reserves. Grand Final. Stanhope 7.8 (50) d Murchison Toolamba 6.9 (45).

Under 18. Grand Final. Tallygaroopna 12.8 (80) d Nagambie 9.3 (57)

Riddell District

■ Seniors. Finals Round 4. Riddell 13.13 (91) d Macedon 12.6 (78).

Reserves. Finals Roun d 4. Wallan 5.6 (36) d Romsey 3.2 (20).

Under 19.5. Finals Round 4. Macedon 6.6 (42) d Kyneton 5.7 (37).

Police Beat Stolen from cars

■ Police are investigating after multiple vehicles were broken into in Melbourne’s CBD.

Officers have been told an unknown man and woman attended a residential carpark on Russell St between 4:45am and 5:15am on Tuesday, September 9.

It is understood the pair broke the windows of 11 vehicles before stealing a number of personal items from each, totalling $16,290.

Investigators believe the pair also stole a bank card from one of the vehicles, before using the card to purchase $107 worth of items from retail outlets.

Investigators have released images of a man and woman who they believe can assist with their enquiries.

The man is perceived to be of Caucasian appearance and is of slim build, between 25-35 years-old and is approximately 170180cm tall.

He was seen wearing a white puffer jacket, a black Tommy Hilfiger long sleeve shirt, black Tommy Hilfiger pants and white and red Nike shoes.

The woman is perceived to be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander appearance and is of solid build, between 25-35 yearsold and is approximately 160-175cm tall.

She was seen wearing a black hoodie, black pants, and white and black Nike shoes.

Anyone with information or footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Latest News Keilor impound

■ Brimbank Highway Patrol officers have detected an alleged speeding at Keilor Downs

Police detected a Porsche Cayman travelling at 143-kmh in a 80-kmh section of Sunshine Avenue about 2.50pm on Saturday (Sep. 13).

They attempted to intercept the car but the driver refused to stop.

The car was followed to a local address and police spoke to the driver, a 40-year-old man from Keilor Downs

He underwent a preliminary breath test and accompanied police to a local station where he returned an alleged reading of 0.148.

He was issued an immediate driving ban and will be charged on summons with exceeding the prescribed content of alcohol whilst driving, exceed speed limit, speed dangerous and fail to stop on police direction.

His car was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $999.52.

Man charged

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man following a fatal collision in Lysterfield

Emergency services responded to reports of a Toyota Hilux utility and a Hyundai i30 colliding head-on on Lysterfield Rd about 11pm on Thursday (Sep. 11).

CPR was performed but the driver of the Hyundai, a 26-year-old Croydon woman, died at the scene.

A 47-year-old Ferntree Gully male passenger from the Hilux was airlifted to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

The 22-year-old driver of the Hilux sustained minor injuries and was taken to hospital under police guard.

The Malvern man has since been charged with dangerous driving causing death.

He was bailed to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on September 16.

Drugs discovered

■ Detectives from Northwest Metro Crime Squad have seized a significant amount of illicit firearms as part of an investigation. Investigators intercepted and arrested a man on Bayview Terrace around 7.30am Friday (Sep 12).

A subsequent search of his vehicle uncovered a loaded handgun and silencer and quantities of what is alleged to be methylamphetamine and GHB.

A warrant was executed at a property on Union Rd in Ascot Vale where a further 10 firearms, quantities of ammunition, a machete, sword, items used in the manufacture of firearms including a 3D printer were seized.

A secondary warrant was executed at a property on Narvik Avenue in St Leonards where items such as firearms parts and a quantity of fireworks was also seized.

The 49-year-old Ascot Vale man has been charged with offences including: possession of a trafficable quantity of firearms, prohibited person possess a firearm x11. manufacturing a general category handgun without licence, possess Firearm Part - Manufacture Category E Handgun, ossess Firearm Part - Manufacture General Category Handgun, possession of a loaded firearm in a public place. possession of cartridge ammunition without licence, and ssess methyl-amphetamine and 1-4 Butanediol.

● ● Lisa McCune and Ian Stenlake

Photo: Cameron Grant

SHREWD OPERATOR OPENS PROCEEDINGS

■ Popular Maryborough commenced the week on Monday September 8 and shrewd operator - Horsham’s Aaron Dunn opened the program with A Rocknroll Dance-Miss Potential gelding Maxi Can Dance taking the Vital Signs 3Y0 Pace over 1690 metres.

A winner at Charlton back in March, Maxi Can Dance heavily supported to run at $2.60 settled three back in the moving line from a solo second line draw as The Blazin Boots led from gate four.

Going forward three wide in the last lap, Maxy Can Dance had lots of spring in his step to assume control prior to the home turn and in a punishing finish, gained the day by a half head only over Delightful Miki (gate six) three wide last lap from the rear, with Keayang Seaside going forward from outside the front line to face the breeze at the bell third after dropping off and coming again in the straight a head back third in a thrilling finish. The mile rate 1-56.5.

■ Kurunjang co-trainers Maree and John Caldow scored a most impressive victory with recent stable addition Rocky Valley in the Aldebaran Park Remembering Les Chapman Trotters Mobile over 1690 metres. A 4Y0 gelded son of Skyvalley and Mystical Rainbow raced by Ian Caruana who previously trained the horse, Rocky Valley was restrained to the rear from outside the front line with I Am Wilma (gate two) leading for Riddell co-trainers Chris Lang and Sonia Mahar with Chris in the sulky. Despite being right off the track on the home turn, Rocky Valley a winner of five from 34 going into the race motored home at 100 miles an hour to record a runaway 4 metre margin in advance of Everybodylovesne which used the sprint lane after trailing the pacemaker who held third 1.3 metre away. The mile rate 1-58.5.

■ The stable was to bring up a double when cleverly named Betting Line-Lauper mare Our True Colours landed the 2190 metre Benstud Standardbreds Pace in a 2-00.4 mile rate.

Fast away from gate two, Our True Colours led out before being eased to take a trail on the well supported Feelingoodfreddie (gate four second line) after a gap appeared at the start when Miss Piggy Wiggy galloped in the score up leaving a gap which allowed Feelingoodfreddie and Neil McCallum to charge forward to assume control.

Held up on turning after an easy time, Our True Colours made full use of the sprint lane to prevail by a half neck from Metro Memory (four pegs) from inside the second line, with Kalkadoon Dreaming (one/one from gate three – three wide home turn) third 2.9 metres back, Raced by the Caldow stable and other stable clients, Our True Colours recorded her tenth success in 86 outings which includes 24 placings.

■ Kialla trainer/driver Stephen Boyington’s American Ideal-Katie Grangewood filly Julz Marie after two encouraging placings was victorious in the 1690 metre Redpath Tyre & Battery Service 3Y0 Maiden Pace.

Spearing away from gate six to lead, Julz Marie showed no sign of stopping to greet the judge by an easy 9.1 metres in 1-58.3 from Sonora Sunset (gate three) which trailed. Orsino Belle (gate six – one/two – three pegs) was third along the sprint lane a half head away.

■ Pearcedale trainer Hughie Cathels, a veterinary surgeon by trade snared the 2190 metre Bartletts Manufacturing Vicbred Voucher 2Y0 Maiden Trotters Mobile with what appears to be a lovely gelding by What The Hill from Naughty Iii by the name of Notanotha Naughty. Bred and raced by Hugh and wife Lorraine, Notanotha Naughty backed in from a morning line of $4.00 to start at $1.55 on the fixed odds led throughout from gate two after trotting beautifully for reinsman Jason Lee, coasting to the wire 23.3 metres clear of poleliner African Gala which trailed.

Nostra Nipotina (four pegs) was third a neck back after using the sprint line, but was relegated to fourth after galloping on the wire promoting Argyle Muse (three pegs from gate four) into third. The mile rate 2-03.1.

■ The Vale Les Chapman Forever In Trotting Trotters Handicap was the day’s feature honoring the late Secretary/Manager, going the way of squaregaiting lover (Kewell) owner/ trainer Daryl Prosser’s 5Y0 What The HillGraciella Pinevale gelding Ataboy Charlie who’s only success in 29 outings had been at Ballarat in March last year.

Driven by Michael Bellman Ataboy Charlie began safely from barrier three to cross polemarker Montana Muscle shortly after the start and was rated to perfection, defying all challengers to record a 11.5 metre margin over Montana Muscle and a death-seating Alde-

Harness Racing

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker

baran Anton (20m) who was a head away third. The mile rate 2-05.7.

Echuca fixture

■ Echuca at Frank Ryan Raceway was Tuesday’s fixture and Merrigum owner/trainer/ driver Neil Caldwell well known throughout the district was successful with lightly raced 7Y0 Skyvalley-Amaori Spur mare Madge Egan in the Echuca Steel Sheds Trotters Mobile over 1755 metres.

Going forward three wide from gate four to cross Maudarchy (gate three) shortly after the start, Madge Egan was given an easy time at the head of affairs and judging on her previous start fourth at Maryborough on August 25 when trapped wide for a long way, relished the front running role, scoring by 1.9 metres in a mile rate of 2-04.2 from Billy Zippin (gate five) which worked forward to race outside her. Starlight Red (gate four second line) one/one midrace after also going forward through the middle stages to race exposed before taking a trail on Billy Zippin was third 1.2 metres back.

■ Sebastian owner/trainer Clem Stanaway combined with Ryan Sanderson to land the 1755 metre Caledonian Hotel Social Club Pace with Allthewaytoroyalty in a mile rate of 2-02.6. Working hard to lead from gate three with polemarker Go George Go kicking up inside him, Allthewaytoroyalty eventually crossed turning into the back straight on the first occasion before being pressured by Reinder (gate four) out wide at the bell which was able to take over.

Given a slight breacher for the last lap, Allthewaytoroyalty dashed through along the sprint lane halfway up the running to gain the day by a half neck from Very Tempting out wide off a three wide trail mid-field, with rank outsider Pee Bees Delight (six pegs from gate four on the second line out wide third a head away.

■ Deep Lead part-owner/trainer Marnie Bibby has been having a great run of late and 6Y0 Four Starzzz Shark-Longtan Bliss mare Starzinhereyes brought up two wins in succession and nine overall at start 57 when taking the 2160 metre Moama Bowling Club Pace. Given a beaut trip from the pole by Luke Dunne leading prior to following Karuma Kev (gate four) which had been wide from the outset before racing clear with a lap and a half to travel, Starzinhereyes had plenty of room to extricate approaching the final bend and that she did, running home best to blouse the front runner by 2.1 metres in a rate of 1-58.6. McWizard (three pegs from inside the second line used the sprint lane for third 6 metres back.

9 at Bendigo

■ The regular Wednesday Bendigo meeting consisted of nine races and one winner worthy of a mention was Darraweit-Bolinda partowner/trainer Alexandra Hurley’s Alta Christiano-Tourbillon Dargent 4Y0 gelding Altius in the Poster Boy @ Llowalong Farms Pace over 2150 metres. Given every possible chance by Tristan Larsen one/one from gate five as the well supported Princess Arna led from gate two, Altius raced by a large syndicate of eight was eased three wide into the final bend after following Emjay Jazz outside the pacemaker throughout which had taken a narrow margin on turning, joining her on straightening and proving too strong in a punishing finish by a head, with Huxam Chubb (three pegs) third 2 metres back. The mile rate 2-01.4 (last half 58.7 – quarter 29.8).

It was Altius’ third success in 11 outings. There had been drama before the race as the horse got down in the float during the last part of the journey – fortunately no damage was done.

■ Ali despite suffering effects of a very heavy virus, would have been on a total high after grey 6Y0 half sister Spun Silver (Follow The Stars) led throughout from the pole in the Ray Beckley Memorial Pace over 1609 metres at Geelong on Friday much to the delight of Ali, sister Fran and other stable clients.

Driven by Tristan Larsen, Spun Silver was rated to perfection over the sprint trip, kicking clear on turning to defeat Freak Out which trailed by 10.9 metres easily.

Caledonian Terra (three pegs from inside the second line) was third 3.1 metres back. In quarters of 28.6, 30.4, 29.6 and 29.5 Spun Sister returned a mile rate of 1-58. It was Spun Sister’s 5th victory in 56 outings.

■ Twenty-five-year-old Bannockburn based Tom Rundle was a winner when A Rocknroll Dance-Glenferrie Diva filly Harmony Halo scored in the 1650 metre Bendigo Locksmiths Vicbred Voucher 2Y0 Maiden Pace when making her race debut.

Starting from two on the second line, Harmony Halo driven by Chris Alford settled at the tail of the field as Pakikau led from gate four.

Going forward three wide with a double trail in the last lap, Harmony Halo made the final bend six wide before rushing home stylishly to record a 2.5 metre margin in advance of another first starter Luna Rossa (gate threeone/one) from the Geoff Webster stable giving Bannockburn the quinella. Frosty Drop (gate five) was third 1.9 metres back. The winner returning a 1-57.1 mile rate.

■ Little known Wahring trainer Courtney Harris combined with nomadic former Sebastian reinsman Leigh Sutton to land the 2150 metre Bendigo Ski Boat Centre 4Y0 and Older Maiden Pace with well supported VincentPembrook Caesar 5Y0 mare Cozmo. Raced by Daniel Jack.

Cozmo backed and beaten on debut at Bendigo on August 22 after striking trouble was able to make amends by producing a strong staying performance.

Settling one/two from gate five after being trapped wide early, Cosmo was set alight in the last lap to join the front runner Betathanaboughtone on the home turn which had flown away from gate six for James Herbertson and raced clear in the straight to greet the judge by a huge 16.5 metres over Betathaboughtone in a 1-57 mile rate. Jindalea Jack (one/three from outside the front line –three wide last lap) was third 7.1 metres away.

■ Bolinda trainer Brent Lilley joined forces with Anthony Butt to capture the Always Ready @ Haras Des Trotteurs Trotters Discretionary Handicap over the long 2650 metre course with 6Y0 Creatine-Mangonique gelding Meadow Valley Star. In what was the ‘drive of the night’.

Meadow Valley Star stepped cleanly from 20 metres as stablemate Maestro led from barrier two before surrendering to another stablemate Kyvalley Pierro (10m).

Going forward with a rush to assume control within a lap, Meadow Valley Star kept bowling along with Kyvalley Pierro easing off his back to challenge on turning, however under strong driving Meadow Vally Star held him at bay to register a 3.4 metre victory from polemarker Romantic Nina (four pegs) which flashed home late to blouse Kyvalley Pierro by a neck for second. The mile rate 2-02.9.

Keen racing

■ A small six race card was held at Kilmore on Thursday September 11 with keen racing the order of the night.

Bolinda trainer Brent Lilley was victorious with 3Y0 Aldebaran Eagle-Say Your Pres filly Myheartbeatstrue in the Tellurian Wines Trotters Final over 2180 metres.

Driven by Chris Alford, Myheartsbeatstrue after going forward from outside the front line was able to cross the leader Emmwallen (gate five without spending too much petrol) leaving the favourite Freight Shaker exposed in the open from gate four.

Travelling comfortably, Myheartsbeattrue kicked clear on the final bend to just last by a head over Freight Shaker which didn’t shirk the issue. Floating Mountain (three pegs from the pole) held third spot 1.1 metres back after using the sprint lane. The mile rate 2-01.7.

■ Ross Creek trainer Stephen Clarke and reinswoman daughter Reagan deserve plenty of accolades for keeping 7Y0 Sportswriter-Mon

Sulky Snippets Sulky Snippets

This Week

■ Wednesday – Bendigo, Thursday –Ballarat, Friday – Mildura/Melton, Saturday – Melton, Sunday – Cranbourne, Monday –Maryborough, Tuesday – Mildura/ Shepparton.

Soie mare Written In Silk going after a strenuous campaign to register her 14th success at start 104 by taking the 2180 metre Momentum Gaming Pace.

Beginning fast from gate six, Written In Silk was unable to cross speedy beginner Regal Rock (gate five) which was gifted the front running role by stablemate Treacheroustimes (gate four) leaving her uncovered until the bell when Bronski Royal (gate three second line) went forward from four back in the moving line to join the leader.

Commencing a three wide forward move in the last lap, Written In Silk raced to the front on turning to prevail by 3.1 metres in a mile rate of 1-59.9 over Our Bella Lucia (gate two second line - one/two) which angled into the clear on the home turn to give chase. Regal Rock held third 3.2 metres back.

■ Bunbartha’s Newberry family John, Maree and Matt landed the Picklebet Pace over 1690 metres with 4Y0 Alta Christiano-Shez Madam Jasper gelding Alta Bayamo and in doing so, brought up three wins in succession.

Trained and driven by John, Alta Bayambo led throughout from gate three and never looked like being beaten, accounting for Alphijet (one/three from inside the second line) which flashed home late from a mile back on turning, with Marlo Mareau (gate six – one/ two) third. The margins 4.2 by 1.2 metres in a 1-56.2 mile rate.

■ Echuca trainer Dallas McIntyre combined with James Herbertson to snare the Jet Roofing Maiden Pace over 2180 metres with 3Y0 Poster Boy-Kikfenora filly Poster Perfect on debut.

Lobbing one/one from gate four with Miss Joplin leading from gate two, Poster Perfect moved three wide around Always On The Go in the open on the final bend and ran home nicely to greet the judge 3.3 metres in advance of Colorado Girl from the rear after starting from the extreme draw. Gallico (gate threeone/two – three wide last lap) was third 5 metres back. The mile rate 2-01.

■ Popular Ballan (Bunding) trainer Philip Chircop brought up two wins in succession this time in with cleverly named 4Y0 SportswriterBe Not Afraid mare Fearless Writer in the 1690 metre MC Labour Pace.

Bred and raced by Father Brian Glasheen –the ‘Pacing Priest’, Fearless Writer gave ‘Herbie’ a double after going forward from outside the front line to join the leader On The Hunt (gate three) and had little trouble crossing her at the bell.

Even though Ollies The Boss (one/one from the extreme draw) moved up to challenge on the home turn, Fearless Writer refused to give in, scoring by a half neck in 1-56.1. Momentum Shift (gate two – behind leader - three pegs last lap) was third 4.3 metres back.

Len Baker

Sports Extra

Skate Park

■ A $300,000 grant has been approved to support the development of a new 800square metre beginner-to-intermediate level skate park at the Olivine Recreation Reserve in Donnybrook – the only skate facility of its kind within the City of Whittlesea. Delivered by Mirvac in partnership with City of Whittlesea, and designed by Baseplate, this project is a major boost for the area’s young population. With construction on track for completion by October and the park opening anticipated late 2025, the skate park will provide a much-needed outlet for teenagers and young people in a region currently underserved.

● ● ● ● Outer East Division 1 Reserves: 2025 premiership winners.

● ● The Rebels ‘faithful’ made their way to Yarra Glen to support the team.

● ● How sweet it is! Brandon Kapakoulakis.

● ● ● ● Tom McKinlay takes control in front of the crowd at Yarra Glen.

● ● ● ● Bart Wallace kicked two goals for the day. ● ● ● ● Nathan Dundas sets the pace for the Rebels Reserves.

● ● Fans of Jake Steyger

● ● ● ● Toby Ward added to Alexandra’s colour of the day agianst Seville.

Photos: Alexandra Rebels

Regional Rounds

Park renewals

■ Nillumbik Council continues its playground renewals program for 2025-26, delivering upgrades and improvements to ensure local playgrounds remain fun, safe and inclusive.

“With more than 60 public playgrounds across the Shire, Council regularly audits and prioritises sites for renewals based on age, condition and community use,” a Nillumbik Council representative said.

This year’s works include:

■ Irene Court Reserve, Diamond Creek - a new playground for children aged two to 12 with a mega cube climbing unit, slides, swings and a basket swing.

■ Kangaroo Ground Emergency Operations Centre Playground - replacement of the much-loved timber swings with a new double junior swing set.

■ James Cook Drive Reserve, Diamond Creek - a refreshed playground featuring a multi-play unit, climbing cube, upgraded swings and accessible play elements and incorporating an exploration theme.

■ Alistair Knox Park, Eltham – an enhancement of the existing playspace, new equipment includes a basket swing, log pile, teepee and hammock for imaginative and social play.

All projects are scheduled for completion by the end of the 2025-26 financial year.

Nillumbik Mayor Cr John Dumaresq said the program shows Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting local playgrounds.

“Playgrounds are such an important part of our community. While we continue to invest in the bigger play spaces, we also focus on keeping our smaller local parks welcoming and well looked after right across the Shire,” Cr Dumaresq said.

“This program makes sure families and kids have great places close to home where they can play, socialise, have fun and enjoy the outdoors,” he said.

College praise

■ Eltham MLA Vicki Ward has mentioned Diamond Valley College in Parliament, describing their production of Cinderellaas “wonderful”.

“I really want to acknowledge the fantastic performers, who had great confidence, skill and talent – Ayla Coxford, Leo Liu, Amelia Wilson, Olive Murphy, Jasmine Mierke, Anna Egan, Willow Bullock, River Said, Sara Berecki, Matilda Prendergast, Elise Bidwell, Lucy Brennan, Shyla Campbell, Lucy Cracknell, Lucy Galpin, Evie Gray, Scarlett Hare, Evie Jackman, Aylisha Landy Stanway, Iris Murphy, Matilda Oaten, Sienna Owen, Zoe Sangwin and Lily Stephens – for their fantastic work.”

Diamond jubilee

■ Eltham Wildcats have celebratecd their diamond jubilee, marking 60 years of continued commitment to basketball in the community.

“Six decades is an incredible testament to the strength and success of this amazing club of over 5000 members,” said Eltham MLA Vicki Ward.

“Thank you to club CEO Richard Irving and past CEOs Connor Matthews and Greg Jeffers , my collaborators on Monty Secondary’s three-court basketball stadium.

“Thank you also to fantastic president Peter Meehan and the whole Wildcats family. This is an incredible milestone, and I am sure we will get to celebrate many more,” Ms Ward said.

Rubbish piles

■ Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish has told State Parliament about rubbish being dumped on local roadsides.

“There are so many piles. Have a look where they are: the Melba Highway – there are multiple spots where there are piles; the Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Rd – again, multiple spots; Goulburn Valley Highway; Donnybrook Rd – I was there on the weekend, and on the entire length of Donnybrook Rd rubbish is dumped; particular spots, probably Parks Victoria spots, at Yan Yean Reservoir ; and Marysville-Woods Point Rd, at the lookout there.

“There are so many spots where there are not rubbish bins, and there are other spots where this purposefully dumped rubbish is just left,” Ms McLeish said.

●

● ● ● Contact The Local Paper office on 5797 2656 or 1800 231 311.

Gaslighting, racism: MP

■ Warrandyte MLA Nicole Wermer says that there has been a lot of “gaslighting and misinformation” about who and what the Liberal Party is and for what it stands.,

“I am proud to stand up here today and put it on record. I am the granddaughter of an illiterate peasant woman from Malaysia who was a World War II survivor, and I am a Liberal MP,” Ms Werner said.

“The member for W estern Metro Region, Trung Luu, came here on a boat as a Vietnamese refugee, and he is a Liberal MP .

“The member for Caulfield’s extended family survived the Holocaust, and he is a Liberal MP

“I say this to all Victorians: whatever your origin story, whatever your background is –whether your heritage is Chinese, Indian or English, whether you are Indigenous, a new migrant or your family has been here 200 years – we are all Australian and we all belong.

“My son is both a grandson of Chinese Malaysian migrants and also a seventh-generation Australian , and it is my dream for him and for Victoria that people are judged by the content of their character rather than by the colour of their skin.

“We have all had enough of Labor’s divisive politics and race-baiting. I am sick of the Premier using multicultural communities to play political games and score political points,” Ms Werner said.

‘Tell us your priorities’

■ The City of Whittlesea, headed by CEO Craig Lloyd, is asking residents to list their priorities for the municipality.

First phase of the annual Community Priorities consultation is now open and is designed to help the Council understand what is important to our community and the areas they think funding should be focused on.

“The insights received from this survey will be used in the development of the 2026-27 Budget, Community Action Plan 2026-27 and the next iteration of our Strong Local Economy Strategy ,” said a Council representative.

Council’s annual budget outlines investment in the delivery of essential services and key infrastructure needed to support our growing community, while the Community Action Plan outlines what Council will focus on delivering as part of the second year of the Community Plan

S’bogie demands fairness

■ Strathbogie Shire Mayor, Cr Claire Ewart Kennedy, has expressed concern following the passing of the NationalElectricity(Victoria) Amendment(VicGridStage2)ReformBill 2025, warning that the reforms represent another blow to regional communities already grappling with drought, emergency services level, unreliable power, and growing inequities.

“Strathbogie Shire has some of the least reliable power in Victoria,” Cr Ewart Kennedy said.

“We have endured repeated blackouts that cripple our towns, businesses, and farms. Yet instead of addressing reliability, these reforms impose new risks and strip landholders of their rights.

“Imagine if you lived on a metropolitan property and companies could force access to your land without your consent—how would you feel?”

Strathbogie Council says that it has consistently advocated for equitable treatment and practical, local solutions, including urgent upgrades to the Seymour–Benalla line and investment in microgrid and battery storage projects to strengthen regional resilience. Farmers across Victoria have voiced alarm at the implications of the reforms, Cr Ewart Kennedy said

Council Rounds

Aust. Day poll

■ Strathbogie Shire Council is inviting local people to have their say on the future of the Council’s role in supporting local Australia Day events.

The Council resolved to review its position on this matter, committing to engagement with the broader Strathbogie community, affected community groups, and First Nations representatives.

“Following the development of a detailed engagement approach, Council is now ready to proceed with the next step: a opt in community poll, and an independent randomised phone poll,” a Shire representative said.

The opt-in Community Poll will be conducted via Share Strathbogie and through hard copy survey stations with reply paid envelopes and will be open until September 30, anyone can participate in this poll.

The randomised phone poll will be delivered by Oracle, an independent service provider and will also be conducted in the month of September.

“The randomised phone poll will provide Council with an independent statistically significant data set to support informed decision making, particularly when coupled with the community opt-in poll data set,” the Council representative said.

Mayor Cr Claire Ewart-Kennedy said the process is designed to give everyone an opportunity to share their views.

“This is an important conversation for our community, and we are committed to an inclusive and respectful process,” Cr Ewart-Kennedy said.

“We understand that Australia Day holds different meanings for different people, and we want to ensure all voices are heard as we consider Council’s future role in supporting these events.”

The poll will ask three key questions:

■ To what extent do you support Council providing support to local community groups for events that acknowledge or celebrate Australia Day?

■ To what extent do you support Councillors and Council staff participating in an official capacity in community events that acknowledge or celebrate Australia Day?

■ Do you have any other comments about Council’s future involvement in Australia Day events

Local people can participate in the optin community poll by completing the survey online at share.strathbogie.vic.gov.au or by collecting a hard copy with a reply-paid envelope from Council service centres and libraries across the Shire.

The ouncil has had presentations in recent weeks from the Taungurung Land and Waters Council and Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation, as well as from local Australia Day Committees and groups that organise events.

A further Council report will be tabled at the October Council Meeting, bringing together both data sets and identifying Council’s position moving forward.

“We encourage everyone to take part,” Cr Ewart-Kennedy said. “This is an opportunity to help shape how Council supports this day moving forward; guided by community sentiment, cultural sensitivity, and transparency.”

Tree planting

■ Mansfield Council’s annual urban tree planting program is a chance for residents to influence what locations get new or replacement trees.

“With planning now underway for the 2026 program, Council is inviting community members to nominate priority locations in the Shire’s urban areas,” a Mansfield Council representative said.

“Besides making attractive neighbourhoods, street trees improve air quality, support wildlife, provide shade and contribute to wellbeing.

“Each year Council invests in planting new trees in urban areas and renewing ageing or unhealthy ones.”

Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie encouraged local people to take the opportunity to nominate a location where they think urban trees should be planted.

“If you’ve been thinking about how nice it would be to have more trees in a particular spot, now is the time to let Council know,” he said.

“We know our community cares a lot about the character of their local area. It’s your Shire, and we’re listening. Every year we work with our community to select the locations that are most important to them.”

● ● Nicole Werner, MLA

● ● Craig Lloyd, City of Whittlesea CEO

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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

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

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

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.

New.

used.

for $720. Will sell $360. Grey. Never installed. EC. Alexandra. 0409 470 107.

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

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

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

HEATER. Wood. With flue. Warmbrite. GC. $500. Seymour. 0422 204 977. 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

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

ball joints, 2 boxes of parts. VGC. $1000. Seymour 0419 881 573. N-Q

PIANOLA ROLLS. Around 50 rolls in all. Many older tunes. GC. $75. Malvern East. 0419 685 666. LL-OO

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

PRAM. 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

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

9306 7628 LL-OO

ROLLER DOOR Electric motor. 4 Doors brand. Near new Model 4DR1 v4 with remotes. Still has new stickers on it. EC. $100. Whittlesea. 0419 002 507. LL-OO

SAWS. 5 vintage saws for woodwork. FC. $12. Also frame for manual sharpening, GC. $8. Ashburton. 9885 2203. 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

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

STROLLER. City aselkect by Baby Jogger. VGC. $60. Whittlesea. 0494 30 264. HH-LL

TRANIST WHEELCHAIR with seatbelt, footrest and armrests. Lightweight. Cost $279, sell $70. Whittlesea. 0494 380 264. HH-LL

TOYOTA COROLLA. Manual. Roacdworthy condition. VG motor, gear box. Dark blue. RXJ-289. GC. $2000. Box Hill North. 0449 836 907. HH-LL

TWO-PERSON SAW. $90. Mill Park. 9436 8935.HH-LL

WHEELBARROW. $75. Mill Park. 9436 8935. HH-LL

HH-LL

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 WOOD HEATER. Cast iron. GC. $500. Seymour. 0422 204 977. Z-CC

WORKSHOP MANUALS. Holden VR Commodore. Vol 8, 4 and 5,. $220. Kangaroo Groundf. 9712 0337. Z-CC

ANZ Bank Money Boxes. GC. Price negotiable. Will alsoswap. Mill Park. 9436 8935.

REFERENCE BOOK. Holden Commodore 1978. 42cm x 29cm. $85. Glenroy.

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Dave Palmer, Rural Tanks and Garden Beds

G'day folks,

Dave here from Rural Tanks and Garden Beds - where the corrugated curves of Aussie ingenuity meet the good old-fashioned joy of growing your own tomatoes. If you’ve ever wrestled with a wheelbarrow in gumboots or debated whether zucchinis are taking over your life, you’re in good company.

Now, I’ve been rolling galvanised iron since 1989 (back when mullets were cool the first time), and while water tanks are still our bread and butter, it’s the garden beds that have really taken root in recent years. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching your backyard transform into a patch of productivity - whether it’s herbs for your roast lamb, peas that never make it inside because the kids eat them straight off the vine or a delicious strawberry –its fresh, its home grown and it’s so

Fact File

NAME: Rural Tanks and Garden Beds

ADDRESS: 5 Tebble St, Seymour

PHONE: 5799 0133

WEBSITE: www.ruraltanksandgarden beds.com.au

EMAIL: dave@ruraltanks.com

much more delicious than anything you buy from a store.

So here’s a little something to sweeten the soil: for a limited time, when you buy one of our .42m high galvanised iron garden beds, you’ll get the second one for half price. That’s right—double the dirt, half the hurt. Whether you’re starting small or going full veggie jungle, this is your chance to build a backyard that’s both beautiful and bountiful.

Our garden beds come in a range of shapes, sizes, and finishes, including Colorbond™ for those who like a splash of style with their spinach. And unlike those flimsy stick-on edges you see elsewhere, ours are rolled for safety and built to last. We even offer wicking beds with adjustable water levels—because plants deserve hydration options too.

So, if you’re ready to dig in, come have a yarn with us. We’re not just selling steel—we’re helping Aussies grow, thrive, and maybe even win the neighbourhood tomato contest.

Happy gardening! - Dave Rural Tanks and Garden Beds www.ruraltanksandgardenbeds.com.au