The Local Paper. Mitchell Strathbogie Edition. Wed., June 25, 2025

‘LOCALS PROP UP SUBURBAN LOOP’

■ The people of Kalkallo, Donnybrook and Mickleham are propping up the Suburban Rail Loop in the eastern suburbs, rather than getting their duplication of Donnybrook Rd, according to northern metropolitan MLC Evan Mulholland.

“The Government have said they have got $125 million to duplicate Donnybrook Road All they are doing is blowing up a roundabout that they only recently upgraded in 2023.

“What a waste it is to do that. We still do not know, and I seek the action of the Minister to explain, how much of the $125 million is a State Government contribution, because the State Government contribution to the road blitz was only $200 million.

“The minister needs to explain herself and finally get on with properly duplicating Donnybrook Rd

“Now, I have made a promise to my community – the communities of Mickleham, Kalkallo and beyond – to raise Donnybrook Rd every single sitting week in the Parliament

“We know that Donnybrook Rd is an old farm track. The bridge over the Hume is one lane each way.

“The Government even reduced the speed limit on the Hume going north, from 100 kilometres an hour to 80 kilometres an hour, such was the congestion – so they are slowing the entire state down.

“Now they are also putting in some traffic lights,” Mr Mulholland said.

LIBS FORCE LAND TAX EXEMPTION - LOVELL

■ The Victorian Liberal Party says it secured an amendment to the State Taxation Acts Amendment Bill 2025, that provides an exemption from land tax for homes that became uninhabitable after the 2022 floods.

Wendy Lovell, Northern Victoria MLC, raised the matter of flood victims being sent land tax bills with Shadow Treasurer James Newbury after hearing concerning stories from her constituents.

Ms Lovell thanked Mr Newbury for his strong advocacy in Parliament, and in negotiations with the Government, to successfully secure this tax relief measure.

Previously, a landowner had an exemption from Land Tax if the land became unfit for occupation “because of damage or destruction caused by an event such as fire, earthquake, storm, accident or malicious damage” – but only until the second anniversary of the destructive event.

Now that more than two years have passed since the 2022 floods, victims of the natural disaster who are still rebuilding their homes are being sent Land Tax bills by the State Government because it is technically no longer their principal place of residence.

“We have seen shocking examples of Victorians being sent land tax bills while they are still rebuilding their homes and their lives. When you are forced to leave your home because of a natural disaster, the last thing you need is this Labor Government sending you a tax bill,” Ms Lovell said.

Evan Mulholland MLC

The Local Paper

SHIRE ‘DISAPPOINTED’ WITH GOVT

Council News

Murrindindi plans

$1.1m surplus

■ Murrindindi Shire Council has adopted its Annual Budget for 2025-26 at the scheduled meeting.

The $45.6 million Budget outlines how the Council will deliver essential services and invest in key infrastructure projects across the Shire. The Budget supports the Council Plan 2025-2029, “fostering healthy, inclusive and resilient communities, and delivering trusted leadership and sustainable ser

Key features of the Budget include:

■ an operating surplus of $1.1 million

■ a $17.2 million capital works program

■ average property rate increases limited to 3 per cent, in line with the State Government’s rate cap.

Major projects funded in the 2025-26 Budget include:

■ $4.3 million for Key Worker Housing in Eildon (largely funded by grants)

■ $1.4 million to renew local bridges

■ $400,000 for footpath and shared path upgrades

■ $270,000 for park and playground improvements

■ $95,000 for digital system upgrades and improved customer service.

The Council will continue to support a local youth services program, despite the withdrawal of State Government funding.

The Council says that is also focused on improving efficiencies, reducing costs and delivering services more effectively.

“In 2025-26 Council will continue investing in digital technologies to streamline processes and improve the community’s experience,” a representative said.

“Council will also work with the community to explore the future of costly, ageing or under-used public facilities, and collaborate with neighbouring councils to find smarter, more cost-effective ways to deliver services.

“Council received nine community submissions to the draft Budget in May. All were considered before finalising the Budget, and individual responses will be provided to each submitter.”

A portion of the kerbside bin collection charges ($149) will be extended to properties that do not receive a kerbside bin collection.

■ Murrindindi Shire Council says that oit is “disappointed” with the Allan State Labor Government.

In a statement issued by Councillors, the Shire said that with the with the Government’s response to the Parliamentary Inquiry into Local Government Funding and Services

The Council said the response offers little meaningful action for rural councils facing mounting financial pressure.

The Council made a detailed submission to the Inquiry in July last year, calling for systemic reform to address cost shifting, improve the fairness of grant funding, and support councils with limited rate bases to deliver core infrastructure and services.

“Many of the issues raised by Murrindindi were also reflected in the Inquiry’s interim report released in November 2024, which acknowledged the financial pressures faced by rural councils,” the Shire statement said.

The Council’s submission called for:

■ A formal audit and resolution of cost-shifting from State and Federal governments

■ More equitable and untied funding, especially for roads, asset renewal and infrastructure

■ Simpler and fairer grant processes, including more realistic co-contribution expectations

■ Reinstatement of 50:50 State funding for services like school crossings, maternal and child health, and immunisation

■ Better disaster recovery funding, including support for resilient reconstruction and faster claim processing

■ Transparent and fairer allocation of Financial Assistance Grants

Murrindindi Shire Council Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher said the Government’s response acknowledges some important issues but largely avoids the scale of reform that rural councils had hoped for.

“We acknowledge the Government’s support for planning assistance, efforts to improve disaster recovery processes, and the commitment to more transparent grant allocations,' the Cr Gallagher said.

“But in too many areas, the response offers in-principle support with no firm action or funding.'

“This is a missed opportunity to fix longstanding inequities and rising financial pressure on small rural councils like Murrindindi.

“The Government’s response has mostly defended the status quo - the very setting that led to the Inquiry in the first place.”

The Council noted that of the 48 recommendations from the Inquiry, only 9 were fully supported by the Government, with a large number either deferred for further review or only

supported in principle, leaving key issues like rural roads funding, service partnerships, and cost shifting unresolved.

“Rural councils like ours have higher costs to serve, limited economies of scale, and shrinking external grants,” Cr Gallagher said.

“We need reform that levels the playing field, not more processes that reinforce the status quo.”

Murrindindi Shire Council says that it will continue to advocate through the Municipal Association of Victoria and the Rural Councils Victoria network to pursue the funding and policy reform needed “to secure the long-term sustainability of local government in rural Victoria”.

Playful Platypus

■ Strathbogie Shire Council announce the commissioning of two new public art sculptures for Euroa, following a selection process as part of the next stage of the Euroa Public Art Trail.

The standout artwork—a bold, 3.5-metretall platypus sculpture crafted from corten steel—will be installed in Seven Creeks Park

A second, smaller platypus will be installed in Binney St. Both pieces will be created by Kilmore -based artist Dr Chris Anderson , known for his award-winning wood and steel designs and his engineering expertise.

This project, made possible by $50,000 in funding through the 2024–25 Pitch My Project initiative, is a partnership between the Euroa Chamber of Business and Commerce, the Euroa Community Action Group, and Strathbogie Council

Strathbogie Mayor Cr Claire EwartKennedy said the new sculptures will add fresh character and charm to Euroa’s public spaces while responding directly to community input.

“These sculptures are playful, engaging and rooted in place—they bring the elusive platypus into the spotlight, inviting locals and visitors alike to explore and connect with our town in new ways.

“Just as importantly, the selection process followed our adopted Public Art Policy from start to finish, ensuring that every proposal was assessed fairly and thoroughly by a panel of experts and community representatives,” Cr Ewart-Kennedy said.

● ● ● ● Cr Damien Gallagher, Mayor

The Local Paper

Online weekly. Print copies fortnightly.

In association with the Established September 14, 1969

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

ABOUT US

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

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

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

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

• Mitchell Shire Edition: Mitchell Shire

CONTACT US

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

Mail: PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095

Web: www.LocalPaper.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

www.LocalMedia.com.au

E-Mail: Editor@LocalPaper.com.au

Editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au

Editor@LocalMedia.com.au

Bissett-Johnson, Cartoonist

Editor: Ash Long

Foenander, Music

Features Editor: Peter Mac

Kemp, Art

Columnists: Len Baker, Matt Bissett-Johnson, Rob Foenander, Peter Kemp, Aaron Rourke, Ted Ryan, Cheryl Threadgold, Julie Houghton, Kevin Trask, John O’Keefe

Honorary Reviewers: Juliet Charles, Sherryn Danaher, Lyn Hurst, Kathryn Keeble, Beth Klein, Graeme McCoubrie, David McLean, Maggie Morrison, Peter Murphy, Lucy Nicolson, Jill Page, Elizabeth Semmel

Logistics: Tyler Sandiford, Tim Granvillani, Erica Koldinsky

Credit Manager: Michael Conway OAM, Fast Action Debt Recovery, 0402 142 866

Ash on Wednesday Shires join to boost tourism

■ Three shires have partnered to create a new Visitor Economy Partnership, spreading tourism funding and initiatives.

Cardinia, Nillumbik and Yarra Ranges Shires will transfer of the current agreement with Yarra Ranges Tourism across to the new Visitor Economy Partnership on Tuesday (July 1).

All three Councils have now committed to the VEP

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Jim Child, said the change would mean enhanced partnerships with nearby Councils, better opportunities to access State and Federal funding and increased tourism support for the wider region.

“Tourism is one of our most significant economic backbones here in the outer east,” Cr Child said.

“We have millions of visitors coming to the region every year, with numbers expected to increase upon completion of our flagship tourism projects such as the Warburton Bike Park, ngurrak-barring (Ridge Walk) in the Dandenongs and the Yarra Valley Trail .

“Our neighbours in Cardinia and Nillumbik Shires are also active in growing tourism visitation and the fact is that many people travelling through will often enjoy what our regions offer collectively.”

“This new partnership will be the voice of our visitor economy in the outer east.

“It will support our tourism industry to grow and become more resilient, help attract investment, advocate for our three regions, all of which experience similar challenges and have similar op-

Ranges Mayor Cr Jim Child, Cardinia Mayor

Jack Kowarzik, and Nillumbik Mayor Cr John Dumaresq portunities, and, of course, help bring more visitors to our unique part of the world.

Long Shots

with Ash Long, Editor Direct: 0450 399 932 E: editor@LocalPaper.com.au Web: www.LocalPaper.com.au Personal: www.AshLong.com.au

“For the cause that lacks assistance, ‘Gainst the wrongs that need resistance For the future in the distance, And the good that we can do”

“ Yarra Ranges Tourism has represented the industry and the region well for the past few years, and I think this partnership will take the best parts of what’s been done and bring on board our neighbours to band together to strengthen the visitor economy even further.

“I’m really excited about this, and I look forward to working with our Cardinia and Nillumbik counterparts going forward.”

Nillumbik Shire Council Mayor, Cr John Dumaresq, said, “Tourism provides a major boost for Nillumbik, delivering 381,000 visitors to our Shire each year and contributing $107 million to our local economy.

“We are so lucky to have such an amazing backyard to share with people from outside our area,” Cr Dumaresq said. ●

The Local Paper

Online weekly. Print copies fortnightly.

In association with the Established September 14, 1969

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

Statistics glance: Whittlesea

■ City of Whittlwsea crime figures are up 29 per cent for the year ending March 2025, according to the Crime Statistics Agency.

■ Aggravated burglary, was 63, now 78, up 24 per cent

■ Motor vehicle theft, was 536, now 970, up 81 per cent

■ Residential Aggravated Burglary, was 97, now 127, up 31 per cent

■ Residential Non-Aggravated burglary, was 399, now 474, up 19 per cent

■ Steal from a Motor Vehicle, was 1 324, now 2463, up 86 per cent

■ Steal from a Retail Store, was 863, now 1255, up 45 per cent

■ Family Violence Serious Assault, was 202, now 230, up 14 per cent

■ Non-Family Violence Serious Assault, was 174, now 223, up 28 per cent

■ Total Serious Assault, was 376, now 453, up 20 per cent

■ Total Offences, was 13,810, now 17,841, up 29 per cent.

Mitchell launches Council Plan

● ● Cr John Dougall, Mitchell Mayor

■ Mitchell Shire Council has released its draft Council Plan 2025–2029 for public consultation and is calling on the community to help shape its future.

The four-year strategic blueprint outlines how the Council will support a rapidly growing and diverse region, “while staying true to what makes Mitchell unique”.

It includes five clear objectives that the Council says “will guide decisions, investment and day-to-day operations”:

■ Grow the economy – support local business, attract investment and deliver enabling infrastructure

■ Enhance the quality of life – invest in services and programs that support health, wellbeing and inclusion

■ Develop spaces that enrich everyday life – plan for sustainable growth, housing and infrastructure

■ Ensure good governance – promote transparency, financial responsibility and meaningful community engagement

■ Foster a strong sense of civic pride – maintain clean, safe and welcoming places where people feel connected and proud

Mitchell Shire Mayor Cr John Dougall said the plan had been shaped by community voices and would help manage the challenges and opportunities ahead.

“Mitchell is changing – and changing fast. We’re one of Victoria’s fastest-growing regions, and with that growth comes opportunity and responsibility,” Cr Dougall said.

“We’re not just growing – we’re building a region that’s connected, confident and ready for the future.

The Council Plan incorporates Mitchell Shire’s Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan, recognising the importance of a whole-of-community approach to issues like mental health, social connection, access to services and healthy living.

“A thriving community isn’t just about roads and infrastructure – it’s about the wellbeing of our people,” Cr Dougall said.

“We’re working with partners to tackle real issues like mental health, isolation, access to healthcare and family violence. Everyone deserves to feel safe, supported and connected.”

The Council is also inviting community feedback on its draft Financial Plan and Draft Asset Plan

The Financial Plan outlines how Council will responsibly manage its resources and investments over the next 10 years, a Council representative said.

Local News

W’SEA CRIME UP 29%

■ Crime continues to be on the rise in the City of Whittlesea, with total offences having increased by 29 per cent in the past year, according to Victoria’s Crime Statistics Agency.

“:Under the Allan Labor Government, more crimes are being committed, and fewer are being solved, while Victorians are being left to fend for themselves,” says Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish.

Newly released statistics confirm that in the City of Whittlesea:

■ Motor vehicle theft has increased by 81 per cent from 536 incidents year-ending March 2024 to 970 incidents by March 2025.

■ Aggravated Robbery increase by 24 per cent from 63 incidents in 2024 to 78 in 2025

■ Total Serious Assaults increased by 20 per cent from 376 cases to 453 cases over the span of a year.

Statewide, crime is spiralling. A criminal offence is committed every 50.3 seconds, with a 47 per cent increase on car thefts (a 90 per cent increase over 10 years) and 21 per cent increase in aggravated robbery.

There is an 18 per cent increase in youth offending over thepast 12 months, with a total of 25,275 offences committed by young offenders – one every 20.8 minutes.

Ms Mcleish, who is Shadow Minister for Crime Prevention, said: “ Labor has no answers to tackle the crime crisis that they created.

“Every day Victorians are less safe because of Labor’s soft touch on crime and refusal to give Police , who are working night and day keep our community safe, the resources or laws they need.”

“Victorians are getting sick and tired of waking to yet another story about criminals running rampant in our towns. It’s time to fix this mess and start protecting our community.”

37-lot subdivision approved for Alex.

■ Extensive conditions accompany a planning permit for a 37-lot subdivision at Pendlebury St, Alexandra, successfuly moved by Crs Sandice McAulay and sue Carpenter at last week’s Murrindindi Shire Council meeting.

Permission will be granted for the removal of vegetation, as part of the permit conditions.

All new powerlines within the subdivision must be underground.

All property boundaries adjoining existing and proposed public land must be ● ● ● ● ● Cr Sandice McAulay \fenced to the satisfaction of the Council.

The owner of the land must enter into an agreement with a telecommunications network or service provider for the provision of telecommunication services to each lot.

The native vegetation permitted to be removed, destroyed or lopped under this permit is 0.392 hectares of native vegetation, comprising five large trees.

Prior to certification of the plan of subdivision, Stormwater Drainage Engineering Plans and Computations must be submitted to and approved by the Council.

Drainage calculations shall include a hydraulic grade line analysis considering the 1 in 100-year storm event for the total catchment contributing to the outfall of the development.

A Swale drain along Wattle St which leads to the proposed detention basin shall be cleaned and reshaped by removing weeds and other debris to prevent any stagnation of water. Swale drain and basin shall be designed, reshaped and grassed to accommodate flows from external catchments.

Each lot must be independently drained to the satisfaction of the Council. Drainage pipes from each lot should not discharge directly to the kerb and channel.

A standard intersection bell mouth shall be constructed at the intersections of Wattle St and Pendlebury St, with 40 mm thick Type N 10 mm asphalt and designed to withstand waste truck movement

Plans for Nillumbik

■ Nillumbik Council wants public feedback by July 9 about its:

■ Council Plan 2025-2029

■ Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025-2029

■ Financial Plan 2025-2035

■ Asset Plan 2025-2035

Mayor Cr John Dumaresq said residents have a genuine opportunity to shape Council’s direction.

“I personally encourage all who live, work, study or play in Nillumbik to review the draft plans and let us know if they think we’ve got them right,” Cr Dumaresq said.

“The plans identify Council’s goals and priorities and the actions we will take to help us achieve them. Please take the time to read through the plans and provide your feedback by the closing date,” he said.

■ Young people in Mansfield will soon be hitting the trails, thanks to a $2000 grant from the State Government’s Youth Fest 2025 program. Mansfield Shire Youth succeeded in securing the funding to deliver a Youth Mountain Bike Clinic this September, supporting local young people to learn new skills, build confidence and connect with others through sport.

Local Paper is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach The Local Paper or make a complaint to the Australian Press Council in writing at: www.presscouncil.org.au The Council may also be contacted on 1800 025 712.

your

● ● ● ● Cindy McLeish MLA

Shaping M’dindi

■ “The Shaping Murrindindi’s Future project is a locally led initiative, developed in response to the Victorian Government’s decision to cease native forest logging,” last week’s Council meeting was told.

“As one of the11 regions identified in the Victorian Forestry Plan, Murrindindi Shire, particularly the towns of Alexandra, Marysville, Buxton , and Taggerty, have been supported through a structured transition process funded by the State Department Energy Environment and Climate Action.

“The project, now in its final stage, has engaged the community and stakeholders to identify local strengths and opportunities, resulting in the formation of Innovation Working Groups focused on Farm Forestry, Renewable Energy and Circular Economy, Tourism, and Health Aged Care and Social Assistance.

“Each group has developed targeted actions and is progressing toward securing funding and implementing initiatives that support economic diversification and longterm resilience.

“The draft Local Development Strategy titled ‘Shaping Murrindindi’s Future’ outlines the progress and future direction of these IWGs , with emerging interest also identified in Agriculture, Aquaculture, Horticulture, and Advanced Manufacturing.

“Several groups have applied for funding through the Community Development Fund, and the Health and Aged Care IWG has already secured $120,000 to develop a business case for a tailored approach to providing health and care services to dispersed communities.

“The project aligns with the Council Plan 2021–2025 and has been shaped by extensive community consultation.

“The initial funding to develop the Local Development Strategy concluded in March 2025; a subsequent successful grant application has secured continued support, including a Project Officer and research resources, through to June 2026 to enable delivery of the LDS and ongoing support for the IWGs,” the report said.

● John Mott has died at age 98.

■ Fourth generation newspaper identity John Mott has died at age 98.

Mr Mott was Publisher of the Leader Newspaper group until 1986. That company’s flagship masthead was the NorthcoteLeader, and other northern suburbs titles included the Brunswick Sentinel, Coburg Courier, PrestonPost,NorthernTimes,Whittlesea Post,DiamondValleyNews,Heidelberger and Doncaster-TemplestoweNews.

Born in 1926, Mr Mott had lived in East Preston, was son of former City of Preston Mayor George Mott and Mona (nee Stewart). He had attended Northcote High School.

He was married for 69 years to Margaret, who predecased him. He was father to Julie (and partner Julie), David (Sally) and Andrew (Elowyn).

A family tribute described him as a “man of integrity and action; skilled woodworker and singer ... a model figure in all our lives”.

The family said that Mr Mott was “kind, patient, wise, humble and generous - and a true gentleman to all”.

14 houses for Eildon VALE JOHN HORACE MOTT

■ Authority has been delegated to Murrindindi Shire CEO Livia Bonazzi and Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher to finalise a contract to deliver 33 bedrooms of key worker housing across two sites in Eildon: 10 Eighth and 18 Twenty-First Streets

Community feedback from January and February confirmed a clear preference for freestanding houses in landscaped settings, ideal for families and workers. This feedback was used to shape the design and tender approach.

Total project cost is estimated at $6.28 million, with Council contributing $1.5 million in borrowings and $780,000 in land value. The project is designed to be financially sustainable, with a mix of rental income and potential future sales. Tenders have been received for the design .

Health outcomes

■ Cr Jodi Adams to,ld last week’s MurrindindiShire meeting: “Whilst Council is not a provider of health and care services, we are a strong advocate for our community and have a focus on bringing partners together to collaborate to improve health outcomes for our community.

“Councils are required to prepare a Community Health and Wellbeing Plan at the start of each new Council term.

“Our Community Health and Wellbeing plan is progressing with partners, identifying the trends, and data about the health of our community.

“With our partners we will develop a plan on how collectively with the State and other agencies we can work to improve health outcomes.

“I am looking forward to this work progressing as this is an area important to me.

“As a Council we are often the voice for our community and through our advocacy we speak up, raise issues and try to bring about change.

“This includes:

■ Access to services being constrained and not being delivered in small shires with dispersed communities. It is far too easy for providers to hit their targets in growth areas.

■ Retention of hospitals / independence and local representation

■ Dialysis treatment and the difficulties in securing reliable transport, with changes to service provision

■ Mental health support for families.”

At Flowerdale

■ The historic grounds of the Flowerdale Estate in Strath Creek will come alive with Illumina, a celebration of light, music, and memory.

Promoters say “experience a dreamlike journey through glowing gardens, flickering firelight, and immersive soundscapes. This will be held over four evenings, from Thursday, July 10 to Sunday, July 13.”

● ● Livia Bonazzi, Shire CEO

Local Briefs

Plans for Alex, Yea

■ Cr Sandice McAulay has spoken at Murrindindi Shire Council about the Alexandra East Development Plan and the Yea Structure Plan.

“Alexandra East Development Plan which incorporates the first round of community feedback and insight is now available on Council’s website,” Cr McAu,lay said.

“Again, thank you to everyone involved so far. This plan will help unlock a diversity of housing options, enabling our town to grow and prosper.

“Growth will ensure sustainability of services and attract new services. There will be an exciting mix of lot sizes for key workers, retirees, down sizers and families.

“Our community has now made the best of the Federally Funded Government Grant to unlock the potential of this area with a development plan and integrated development.

“The Yea Structure Plan closes [Wed., June 18] and big thank everyone for their input and contributions.

“Many great ideas came from the community including a bypass, avenue plantings, and highlights the focus on an art / cultural precinct to be explored.

“The structure plan will guide the future growth and development within the town boundary,” Cr McAulay said.

Maintenance time

■ Cr Eric Lording gave an update on maintenance matters when he spoke at last week’s Murrindindi Council meeting.

“Pit and drain clearing works have now been completed in Alexandra, Eildon, Marysville and Yea. Although the weather has been very dry, this has enabled our road crews to continue with road works including the maintenance road grading program with 384km graded.

“Update on the Riverside Drive project –drainage and Kerb and Channel to stop property flooding. We have received quotes for the works. The team is currently evaluating these,” Cr Lording said.

Need for buses at W’dyte

■ The State Government needs to improve public transport in the Warrandyte electorate by reviewing and expanding local bus services, local MLA Nicole Werner has told Parliament.

“The only public transport available in my electorate is bus services, yet across many suburbs those services are limited, unreliable and in some areas non-existent,” Ms Werner said

“For example, Park Orchards is in the centre of my electorate, and if someone wants to drive from Park Orchards to shop local in Warrandyte, it is a seven -minute drive.

“However, the same trip by bus takes 10 times longer than that – over 70 minutes.

“Alternatively, if they went to Wonga Park, it is an 11-minute drive but nearly an hour and a half on public transport.

“It should not be that suburbs so close to one another are completely disconnected.

“For local resident Kim Coulson, who lives near Tindals Rd in Warrandyte, the closest bus stop is a dangerous 50-minute walk along a 70-kilometre-per-hour road with no footpath.

“The Department of Transport and Planning previously said that their review had not identified a need for more bus services, but I am concerned that this assessment may be based on data that does not reflect reality.

“Ms Coulson recently caught a city-bound bus, which she had to drive to, and observed that by the freeway stop the bus was over capacity with standing room only.

“Yet she estimates fewer than 20 per cent of passengers had tapped on. If demand is being measured by tap-on data alone, then we would be undercounting usage and falsely justifying a lack of bus services for an area that really needs it.

“But this is not the only example of Warrandyte’s lack of local public transport. In North Warrandyte schoolchildren are being left without enough public school buses simply because they attend an independent school.

“Parents have repeatedly raised concerns

about the overcrowded school bus service to Luther College. Local mum Crystal Stephens said her daughters often cannot board at Warrandyte Bridge because the bus is full, leaving them stranded with no way of getting to school.

“Despite years of advocacy through Public Transport Victoria, local councils and the school the issue remains unresolved.

“Yet when this issue was raised with the minister, the response said that because these students do not attend their zoned government school, the department has no intention of providing additional support.

“So the message to parents of kids at independent schools seems to be, ‘Go to a government school or we’re not interested in helping you.’

“Nearly 4000 students attend nongovernment schools in my electorate. How is it fair that these students’ needs are to be ignored when it comes to accessing public transport simply because of the school they attend?

“Families in Warrandyte and surrounding suburbs deserve safe, reliable and fair access to public transport, and I urge the minister to take action to improve services in our community,” Ms Werner said.

$110,000

raised

■ Cr Sandice McAulay says that the Alexandra Truck Show Committee recently committed to a target for their fundraising.

“This year funding will support the Yea and District Memorial Hospital to expand the Yea Saleyards Health Outreach Program with a mobile health clinic to travel around the community to offer lifesaving interventions.

“Over the weekend, they raised over $110,000 towards their target. This a credit to the committee and their generous sponsors.

“The Alexandra Truck Show attracted over 12,000 visitors according to local police estimates. There were around 230 trucks some huge attractions.,” Cr McAulay said.

On the land

■ Cr Paul Hildebrand gave an update on rural matters when he spoke at last week’s meeting of Murrindindi Shire Council.

“It was encouraging to receive some rainfall over the recent long weekend. While totals varied across the region, there was enough in some areas to create a small amount of runoff into dams.

“Although it’s only a start, every drop is welcomed in these dry conditions.

“Over the past few weeks, approximately 12,000 head of cattle have passed through the Yea Saleyards, with most of the stock heading north.

“It is encouraging to see livestock prices holding steady, with national lamb price record at Bendigo, Ballarat and Wagga Wagga,” Cr Hildebrand said.

Times are tough

■ Cr Anita Carr told last week’s Murrindindi Council meeting that “times are tough but no one is alone”. Council has help available for a range of challenges. “Customer service officers are there to help you navigate through these challenges. Someone is always there to listen. Stay warm and take care of yourselves and each other.”

● Warrandyte bus. Source: Flickr

Local Briefs

‘Schools tax’

■ Warrandyte MLA Nicole Werner has aked when will the Allan LaborGovernment scrap its “unfair and punishing schools tax”?

“Labor’s schools tax, introduced in 2023, is a cash grab that punishes families choosing non-government schools by applying payroll tax to schools that were previously exempt,” Ms Werner said.

“This is far from a fringe issue, because in the electorate of Warrandyte around 31 per cent of students attend Catholic or independent schools, rising to 52 per cent among secondary students.

“Whitefriars College in Donvale is one of those local schools now facing this tax.

“Principal Mark Murphy tells me the school is about to cross the payroll threshold and will be slugged with a $1 million annual tax bill, forcing fee increases of nearly $1000 per student and punishing hardworking families for their educational choice.

“The Liberals and Nationals will scrap this unfair tax, and I urge the Labor Government to do the same,” Ms Werner said.

Flood Hub award

■ Murrindindi Council received recognition through the Local Government Professionals Awards, with its Community Flood Hub project awarded a "High Commendation".

“Although it is not the first prize, it is a strong endorsement of an initiative we believe is already a winner delivering real impact for our community,” said CEO Livia Bonazzi.

“With funding secured from the Victorian Government, we took a novel approach and brought the hub to the community.

“This mobile model allowed us to meet people where they were, supporting Seniors Week activities, school events, health checks at the sale yards, movie nights, and more. A standout element was the on-site health checks at the Yea saleyards, which helped prevent several serious health issues,” Ms Bonazzi said.

Safety tip for Donna Buang

■ Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish has raised the condition of the Donna Buang Rd with Melissa Horne, Minister for Roads and Road Safety.

“The action I seek is for the Minister to improve safety for cyclists on the popular Donna Buang Road on Mount Donna Buang by directing the Department of Transport and Planning to install additional signage and convex mirrors at key points,” Ms McLeish said.

“These improvements are not costly and are pretty simple and quick to install.

“Cycling is a popular sport, and the 16.8kilometre route up Mount Donna Buang, with a 6.4 per cent gradient and elevation gain of 1069 metres, provides a great challenge for the cycling enthusiast.

“I urge the minister to be quite proactive here, rather than risk being reactive should there be a serious accident or fatality.

“There have been a number of near collisions between cyclists and cars, and there are a couple of blind spots certainly near the top car park entrance of Donna Buang

“I think in general there are just not enough signage and safety measures in place.

“I did write to the minister in February about this and received a response, but the matter is still live.

“The minister’s response was that while the Department has advised there are no plans to implement changes at this location, feedback received will be considered as part of their management of Victoria’s roadworks.

“I would like to know what sort of feedback they have received, because at the minute the safety risks still exist.

“This road, as I said, offers a great challenge. It is windy and steep and the weather conditions can make it quite misty and slippery, and we do get some hoon drivers up there, so improving safety is absolutely important.

“Sometimes the drivers can be a little bit reckless as well.

“The minister suggested in her letter back

to me that observers report action to police or to Crime Stoppers, but really that is not very useful in preventing a cyclist being hit by a car.

“We need to stop accidents from occurring rather than, as I said earlier, being reactive, because it is a matter of time.

“Cycling safety should be made a priority. It is a shared road, and increasing the amount of cyclist safety signage would certainly help protect them by reminding drivers to slow down and to be aware.

“The inclusion of convex mirrors could aid blind spots on the road and would provide that extra needed vision for drivers, while again reminding them of oncoming cyclists and vehicles.

“It is a quick, achievable and effective fix that I have put forward here, and I think that the minister would be wise to pursue this, because everybody is a winner.

“As I said, it is cheap and easy and will not break the bank,” Ms McLeish said.

Yea Golf Club

■ Saturday (June 21) saw 31 players in a 4BBB Event at Yea. The weather was cold and foggy for the entire round and as the shortest daylight hours of the year it was not pleasant for most players. Only five degrees in the afternoon and fortunately no wind.

It didn’t deter Zach Pell(17) who recorded his best round at Yea with 84 of the stick 39 stableford points to give him and his father Alan(13) a team total of 44 points.

Second team were Greg Clements(17) and Brendan Chenehall(11) with 43 points. Third were Margie(22) and Sam Wright(28) with 41 from Steve Rumney(22) and Judi Newman(35) with 40 on CB from three other teams.

Brendan Chenhall was NTP on the 14th and the lucky $10 Club award winners were John Philips/Michelle Willie. Zach Pell(17) on Wednesday had the best Bisque Par score of +3 to win from Anthony La Grutta(18) on Square. Third was Russell Wealands(22) on CB with -1. There was no NTP on the 14th and John Renehan took out the Club Award. Sharon Grogan(240 with +1 won the Ladies Event on Wednesday. Second was Jo Clayton(21) with -5.

Drought Taskforce

■ Murrindindi Council is closely monitoring the work of the State Government's Drought Taskforce, says CEO Livia Bonazzi.

Recent outcomes include:

■ Faster access to interstate fodder with streamlined permit processes

■ Expanded freight routes with increased truck tonnage and waived permit fees

■ Fast-tracked kangaroo control permits and rebates to assist landholders in protecting pastures

■ A call for an immediate pause on water buybacks and greater transparency from the Commonwealth

“Council welcomes these actions and will continue advocating for practical, on-theground support for farmers and rural communities,” Ms Bonazzi said.

● Donna Buang

MELBOURNE

Clothing theft

■ Melbourne Divisional Response Unit detectives are investigating a theft where a man brandished a knife in a Melbourne shopping centre.

It is understood a male offender entered a sports shop inside a shopping centre on Lonsdale St about 1.20pm on February 19. He picked up various items of clothing and put them into an Aldi shopping bag he was carrying.

Police were told the man approached a staff member, then lifted his top and brandished a knife tucked in his pants.

The man left the store with the stolen items and there were no injuries.

Police have released CCTV footage and images of a man they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.

He is perceived to be Caucasian in appearance, about 180cm tall, of solid build with tattoos on his left leg.

VETERAN LENSMAN KILLED IN FOOTSCRAY STABBING

■ A man has died following an alleged assault in Footscray. Police were called following reports of an assault at the intersection of Nicholson and Paisley Sts around 10am on Sunday, June 15.

The 62-year-old Footscray man was taken to hospital with critical injuries where he died this morning.

A 43-year-old man of no fixed place of address was arrested on the day of the assault.

At the time, he was charged by detectives from the Homicide Squad with intentionally cause serious injury.

He was remanded and was to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on October 20.

Investigators will consider alternate charges following the results of a postmortem.

The dead man was identified as Dominic O'Brien

O'Brien was a veteran photographer who worked for several news outlets, including TheAge.

He suffered critical injuries after an alleged encounter with the released immigration detainee in an outdoor shopping area.

O'Brien was rushed to hospital following the incident but died on Sunday. At the time, the man was charged with intentionally causing serious injury, but now investigators will decide whether to upgrade his charges.

Statewide

Across Victoria

CITY Retail theft

■ Police from Operation Stand have charged an alleged retail thief with more than 20 offences after a series of shop thefts across Melbourne’s CBD in the last six weeks.

The 38-year-old was arrested during a search warrant at a North Melbourne address on Friday (June 20).

Investigators, with assistance from the Melbourne Crime Reduction Team, also seized more than $8000 worth of allegedly stolen handbags and luxury perfumes.

It will be alleged the man committed a series of shop thefts between May and June this year and stole more than $30,000 worth of handbags, beauty products and luxury perfumes.

The North Melbourne man was on Friday charged with more than 20 offences including:

■ 17 counts of shop theft;

■ Possessing methylamphetamine;

■ Possessing cannabis;

■ Handling stolen goods; and

■ Fail to answer bail.

The man remanded to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on June 24.

Operation Stand is a dedicated team of police who work with CBD and Yarra retailers to identify thieves who use aggression, intimidation, and violence towards retail staff.

Since launching almost a year ago the team has made more than 130 arrests and laid more than 1100 charges.

Acting Sergeant Roland Stagg, Operation Stand, said: “Retail theft is far from a victimless crime.

“We will continue to pursue serial thieves and hold them to account.”

CARRUM DOWNS

Up to 150-kmh

■ Operation Trinity officers are expected to charge a woman after allegedly driving at speeds of up to 150-kmh and failing to display p-plates, in Carrum Downs on Saturday morning (June 21). A silver Holden Commodore was spotted by Police.

● ● ● ● Dominic O’Brien

● ● Police want to speak with this man

Court Lists

Seymour Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings

Thursday, June 26

Local News

Epping collision

■

■

■

■ 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.

Foster, Cassandra Denny Jenner, Max Mcdonald, Toby Thursday, July 3

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a crash involving an allegedly stolen vehicle in Epping early on Wednesday morning (June 18).

■

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Endeavour

■

Alexandra (BP). 10 Downey St.

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Foodworks. 102 Grant St.

■

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

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

■ WESBURN. Hotel. 2882 Warburton Hwy.

■ WONGA PARK. IGA Xpress.

70 Jumping Creek Rd.

Police spotted an allegedly stolen Haval driving at speed in the vicinity of Church St In Whittlesea about 1am.

Officers lost sight of the vehicle.

■

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Mount Pleasant Hotel. 90 Grant St.

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Nutrien Harcourts. 56 Grant St.

■

■ 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.

■

■ ■ ■ 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.

■

■

■ ■ BUXTON. Shell Buxton. 2093 Maroondah Hwy.

■

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

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

■

■ EILDON. Foodworks. 18 Main St.

■

■

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

■

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

■ ■ EPPING. Epping RSL. Harvest Home Rd.

■

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

■

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

■ ■ 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.

■

■

■ ■ YEA. Country Club Hotel. 18 High St.

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

■ ■ YEA. Foodworks. 10 High St.

■

■ YEA. Giddy Coat Cafe. 94 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Newsagency. 67 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Post Office. 123 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Service Station. 165 High St.

■

■ YEA. Grand Central Hotel. 64

High St.

■

■ ■ ■ YEA. Marmalades. 20 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Mint and Jam. 46 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Nutrien Harcourts. 52

■ ■ BROADFORD. Commercial Hotel. 31 High St.

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

■ BROADFORD. IGA Supermarket. 65 High St.

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

Aganetti, Troy Amuso, Dylan Atkinson, Kayla Baines, Dylan James Berger, Shane Robert Bettridge, Anthony Bond, Jason Bradford, Rebecca Braybrooke, Christine Chung, Aaron Lesley D'arcy, Jason Dawe, Andrew Dean, James Doyle, Christopher Ettia, Joseph Manfred Finnigan, Irina Gak, Gak Glavocih, James Gribbin, Simon Gerard Hammond, Anthony James Izzard, James Keamy-Quirk, Caleb Khaira, Amanpreet Singh Loukas, Dimitrios Lucas, Melvyn Christian Lusted, Joshua Maino-Hennessy, Dale Mauri, Alan Miller, Reece Newell, Madeline Sarah Rusic, Benedict Alexander Scott, Paige Linda Shand, Shannon Brooke Stojceski, Alexander Strnak, Ivan John Tant, Christopher Tonkin, Lee Wilson, Bailey Woolley, Tammy Cheree

Friday, July 4

Air Wing spotted the Haval allegedly driving at speed once again in the vicinity of Plenty Rd in South Morang about 1.20am.

Police successfully deployed stop sticks on Bellevue Boulevard, while awaiting updates from the Air Wing monitoring from above.

The chopper continued monitoring the HavAl as it sped through Epping before rolling near the entrance of the Hume Fwy on O’herns Rd.

All six occupants of the vehicle were taken to hospital with serious injuries, where they were under police guard.

The occupants were three 17-year-old boys from the Whittlesea area, two 16-yearold boys from the Hume area and a 19-yearold Seymour woman.

It is alleged the Haval was stolen during an aggravated burglary from an address on Starboard Drive in Doreen during the early hours of Tuesday morning.

The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.

Boys charged

■ Transit Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged two teenagers following alleged assaults, attempted thefts and attempted armed robberies across Melbourne’s CBD on Thursday (June 19).

It is alleged the two teens approached a male victim near Southern Cross Railway Station, made threats they had a knife, and then assaulted him about 8.30am.

■

■ ■ ■ 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.

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.

■ ■ 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.

Crawford, Tessa Lippert, Chantelle Nesbitt, Anthony O'connell, Billy John Tuesday, July 8

Philpott, Silvana Mansfield Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, June 25

The teenagers allegedly attempted to steal his scooter but were unsuccessful and fled on foot.

■

■

■ ■ ■ 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.

■

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

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

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

■

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

■ ■ ■

■ ■ SOUTH MORANG. Milk Bar.

15 Gorge Rd.

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

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

■

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

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

■ ■ THORNTON. 4 Ways Diner. 1369 Taggerty-Thornton Rd.

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

■

■

■ ■ YEA. Yea Bakery. 44 High St.

■

■ ■ ■ YEA. Yea Newsagency. 74 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Yea Take-Away. 68 High St.

Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express Edition

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

■ KILMORE. Kilmore Bakery. 54 Sydney St.

■ KILMORE. Kilmore Newsagency. 41 Sydney St.

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

■

■

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

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

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

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

■

■ SEYMOUR. Seymour NewsXpress. 66 Station St.

■

■

■ ■ 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.

■

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

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

■ 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.

■ ■ 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.

■

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

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

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

■

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

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

■

■

■ ■ ■ 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.

Alee, Jacob Brook, Denham Callen, Peter Richard Chalmers, Robyn Clarke, Beau Creighton, Brenda Goschnick, Dean Gregory Heard, David Ion, Trevor Gordon Paric, Ante Pereira, Felizberto Pilgrim, Mark Shah, Izaaz Iftiyak Sharp, Luke John Snooks, Steuart Stillman, Aaron Trika, Jeffrie Vitellone, David Francis Wednesday, July 2 Seifeddine, Seideddine Walker, Nicole Wednesday, July 9 Aliu, Erjan Atwell, Harry Babai, Vahid Balasubramanian, Sairam Barron, Aiden Cardamone, Peter Cashmore, Christian Emblin, Robert James Hanson, Shane Michael Ischovits, Jake Rama Joyce, David William Konyn, Danny John Muston, Christopher Oktavianto, Revi Tira Phan, Thanh Tung Reid, Brody James Sanchez, Andre Saunders, Scott Raymomd Spizzo, Leon Strongman, Matthew Jon Wagenknecht, Kaylah-Jane Walker, Sonny Wheatcroft, Debra Leigh Young, Christopher

A short time later, the two offenders allegedly attempted to steal a vape from another male victim on Bourke St bridge, near the railway station. They were unsuccessful, allegedly followed and assaulted him, then fled the scene.

The two offenders allegedly attempted to steal headphones from a third victim on St Kilda Rd about 9.30am.

It is alleged they assaulted him when they were unsuccessful.

The three victims all sustained minor injuries and did not require hospital treatment.

Police arrested both teenagers on the corner of Elizabeth and La Trobe Sts about 11am.

One of the boys allegedly assaulted a police officer during the arrest, damaged a police CCTV camera and assaulted two police officers back at the station.

A 16-year-old Doreen boy was charged with:

■ attempted armed robbery (x3)

■ attempted theft

■ unlawful assault

■ resist police

■ possess controlled weapon

■ assault police (x2)

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

A 17-year-old Kinglake boy was charged with:

■ attempted armed robbery (3)

■ attempted theft

■ unlawful assault

■ resist police.

He was remanded into custody to appear before a children’s court at a later date.

Edgars Ck study

■ The City of Whittlesea is inviting residents to have their say on a vision to enhance the health and accessibility of the Edgars Creek corridor.

The Council voted to seek feedback from the community on the draft Edgars Creek Corridor Landscape Improvement Plan

Edgars Creek is a tributary to the Merri Creek that flows for about 13 kilometres through the City of Whittlesea from Wollert to Epping, Lalor and Thomastown.

■

■

■ ■ 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.

Name chnage

■ Mitchell Shire Council has resolved to rename two sections of Mitchell St in Kilmore to Craft

and Creek Lane. Craft St will run between John

and Malthouse St and Creek Lane will run east from Sydney St to the Kilmore Creek

The draft plan provides for improved open space, better biodiversity opportunities such as trees and gardens, new infrastructure to support active lifestyles and places for people to connect.

The public exhibition period concludes on July 18.

Local Briefs

Regional transport

■ Euroa MLA Annabelle Cleeland spoke last week in Parliament about the need for the State Governmen to provide a commitment to urgently reform Victoria’s non-emergency patient transport system and the Victorian patient transport assistance scheme.

The change was nhecessary “so regional patients can access life-saving treatment without financial or logistical hardship”, Ms Cleeland said.

“Right now the system is failing. The Government’s changes to non-emergency patient transport, combined with a broken VPTAS system, are leaving regional Victorians behind, especially those who rely on regular medical treatments like renal dialysis.

“A Government-commissioned review confirmed what my electorate already know: the system does not meet our patients’ needs.

“We need change that improves access, makes the system more efficient and better supports both patients and our workforce.

“But when you look at that review, it is clear regional services were barely consulted. Independent analysis into costs and feasibility was ignored entirely.

“Decisions are being made in Melbourne offices with very little understanding of what this means for regional Victoria

“Since demand rose by 25 per cent in 2019 Ambulance Victoria tightened eligibility criteria.

“Nonemergency patient transport is now only available for those needing active clinical supervision during travel.

“There is a consequence to this. It might work in the city, where patients have other transport options, but for regional patients this is absolutely devastating.

“Many could access subsidised taxi travel previously. Now they are told they no longer qualify and are left to make their own arrangements – people like June Howard in Benalla, who needs dialysis three times a week.

“In towns like Devenish and Heathcote there is simply no public transport at all. Ambulance Victoria will not take them.

“Taxis are not covered and many are missing appointments or going without treatment entirely.

“For those who think VPTAS will step in, it absolutely will not. The scheme is plagued by delays, bureaucracy and poor communication.

“Patients like Trevor Willmott have been waiting eight months for reimbursement –eight months, during a cost-of-living crisis.

“Many are hundreds of dollars out of pocket, and some cannot even get through to VPTAS on the phone or by email.

“When the cost of living keeps rising, expecting patients to cover these huge upfront costs and wait months to be reimbursed is simply impossible.

“It is not a bureaucratic failure, it is a moral one. On top of this is the outdated 100-kilometre travel rule, which locks out patients in places like Benalla simply because the nearest hospital falls just short of the distance threshold.

“These families are being disqualified based on a technicality, even when the services they need are not available locally.

“For patients needing multiple treatments each week the financial and emotional strain is overwhelming.

“These are real people – patients trying to get treatment. The Allan Labor Government cannot keep ignoring this. Stop abandoning regional patients on the side of the road,” Ms Cleeland said.

Clean streets

■ Yan Yean MLA Lauren Kathage says her community deserves to live in clean streets with clean parks.

“But unfortunately a small number of Victorians are doing the wrong thing and dumping their waste, impacting us all,” Ms Kathage said.

“The department has been helpful with picking up loads on Plenty Rd recently, and my local councils are doing everything they can to stop this, but they cannot do it alone.

“So I ask the minister: how is the government supporting the EPA to tackle the rising issue of illegal dumping in my electorate of Yan Yean?”

■ The State Budget had many negatives for the people of Yarra Ranges, Evelyn MLA Bridget Vallence has told t\he Legislative Assembly.

“We oppose this motion to gag or to stifle the opportunity for more members of this Parliament to represent their communities and to talk about this devastating budget that is going to be sending Victoria into skyrocketing debt, record debt, taxing Victorians more, cutting services and cutting jobs,” Ms Vallence said of the Budget.

“We think that more people ought to have an opportunity to represent their communities, to talk about how bad this budget is and to talk about how few things in their own electorates are being looked after: the basics, like the schools that are not being upgraded in people’s local electorates, the schools in my electorate that are not getting upgraded, and the roads, like the Warburton Highway in Seville East, the Maroondah Highway in Coldstream, and Hull and Mooroolbark roads in Mooroolbark.

“These are known dangerous roads. This Government know they are dangerous roads, and yet they are doing nothing to fix them. And that is only in the Evelyn electorate.

“I am sure that so many more members of this chamber would like the opportunity to highlight what this budget lacks in terms of

Northern Hospital concerns Negatives for Yarra Ranges

providing for Victorians in their own electorates and call for more support for people across their electorates, whether it is more police or more nurses – I mean, look at the Maroondah Hospital.

“This government promised to upgrade the Maroondah Hospital in the 2018 election and in the 2022 election, but still not a single cent has been allocated to capital funding to upgrade the Maroondah Hospital in Ringwood, which is the closest public hospital for the residents in my community.

“Now there is talk of a lot of the services being shut down altogether and moved to Box Hill. What does that do for people in the Yarra Valley? They have to go further, into Box Hill.”

\

■ Warrandyte MLA Nicole Werner has spoken of concerns for the welfare of a Northern Hospital patient.

“My question is to the Minister for Health,” Ms Werner said.

“Krystle, a young woman who presented to Northern Hospital emergency department with acute abdominal pain, spent hours in the overcrowded waiting room doubled over in pain before seeing a doctor for the first time four hours later.

“An internal ultrasound was finally ordered, but the delay meant there was no sonographer or technician available until the next day.

“She was eventually diagnosed with a burst ovarian cyst.

“Minister, why is Victoria’s busiest emergency department unable to deliver timely and urgent care such as an ultrasound to women in extreme pain? Ms Werner asked.

Investment into SES

■ Eltham MLA Vicki Ward has spoken in Parliament about the State Government’s investment into the State Emergency Service.

“It is a great pleasure to talk about the SES, an organisation that those of us on this side absolutely support,” Ms Ward said.

“In fact what we have done with this budget is give investment into the SES that we have not seen before. We recognise exactly how hard our more than 5000 SES volunteers work across this state to protect our communities.

“They are there, and it is such a diverse range of things that our SES respond to.

“This is why we talk to the $14.5 million that we are investing for a new unit at Footscray

“We talk about the $30 million that we are investing, which was announced last year, in replacement fleet for the SES

“What we are seeing from those opposite is an attempt to try and create a narrative, which they have continued to do for some time, that this is a government that does not invest in our emergency services, and nothing could be further from the truth.

“This is a government that will continue to invest in our emergency services,” Ms Ward told the Legislative Assembly.

Schools comment

■ Monbulk MLA Daniela De Martino has spoken in State Parliament about schools in the Yarra Ranges.

“I rise to celebrate some wonderful achievements across the Monbulk district,” Ms Dr Martino said.

“At The Patch Primary School I was thrilled to help open their beautiful new learning spaces, designed to reflect their nature-based philosophy – this school has its own wetlands – and built with the future in mind.

“Congratulations to principal Jim Burnside, the whole school community and the architects and builders who made this happen. What a wonderful asset this is to be enjoyed for decades to come.

“Soon it will be St John the Baptist Primary in Ferntree Gully celebrating their new building, made possible through State Government funding.

“I had the chance to visit their new learning spaces in the final stages of their construction, as the painting was taking place, and I cannot wait to see the finished product.

“I also had the delightful opportunity to visit Monbulk Primary School’s breakfast club last week, where I enjoyed porridge made with love by the students themselves.

“Seeing the conversations over breakfast and the smiles on faces before starting their lessons was proof that the benefits of this program go beyond filling bellies.

“It nourishes minds and souls as well. Long may it last,” Ms De Martino said.

Well done Lions

■ The half-century of service by Lions Club of Eildon has been recognised in State Parliament by local MLA Cindy McLeish.

“It was a big milestone for the Eildon Lions club and club president Kevin, celebrating 50 years and ringing in the occasion with a club dinner,” Ms McLeish said.

“Over the 50 years 183 members have joined the club, which is a big achievement for a small town.

“The club has had an important role in the community, with key projects including the Big River camp, the Eildon Lions leisure park and the Dams Museum.

“Founding member Syd Savage has been a member for the entire 50 years, and his wife Chris has been on the journey for that time but has only been able to be a member for 26 years,” Ms McLeish said.

Update on SEC

■ Mill Park MLA lily D’Ambrosio says the State Electricity Commission is back.

“ I rise to update the house on how the SEC is back and delivering for Victorians,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.

“As we know, the SEC has had three chapters in its life: it was sold off, it was shut down and now it is back serving Victorians again, because the third time is the charm, absolutely.

“Good things do come in threes, which is why the SEC is guided by and delivering on its three pillars: accelerating the energy transition, helping households go electric to save money on their bills and building a renewable energy workforce.

“Construction is underway on two huge projects – that is, three minus one equals two. The Melbourne renewable energy hub, one of the largest batteries in the world, is made up of over three big battery components with over 1100 people having worked on the site so far, and up in Horsham the new SEC renewable energy park is coming along at pace.

“In less than three weeks the SEC will be powering Victoria once again, for the first time since it was sold off three decades ago.

“It will power classrooms, hospitals, police stations and fire stations across the state and some iconic sites like the Melbourne Zoo, the NGV, the Melbourne Museum and more.

“And of course we are delivering the SEC’s one-stop shop, providing (1) free, (2) trusted and (3) simple advice to help families save money on their energy bills.

“Jeff Kennett sold off the SEC with his then assistant, the member for Bulleen, the original cuts guy, sending power bills skyrocketing and slashing jobs.

“Some things really do come in threes: privatisation, higher energy bills and the member for Bulleen,” Ms D’Ambrosio told the Legislative Assembly.

● ● Vicki Ward, Eltham MLA

● ● State Parliament

● ● Nicole Werner, Warrandyte MLA

Rural News

Drought support

■ The State Government is intrloducing $69 million of drought support packages.

Agriculture Minister Ros Spence announced the opening of the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants program statewide, with updated guidelines based on farmer feedback and expanded eligible activities.

The program, managed by Rural Finance, makes available co-contribution grants of $5000 for all primary producers across the state, with $10,000 available for eligible farmers in south-west Victoria and parts of West Wimmera to help those who have been in drought longer.

Eligible activities under the grant program now include pasture re-establishment and water carting – reflecting the wide-ranging pressures farmers are facing and ensuring support reaches where it’s needed most.

Agriculture Victoria’s technical decisionmaking services are also now live and farmers across the state can access a free oneon-one consultation with a farm advisor to help make the difficult decisions they are facing, particularly due to fodder and water shortages.

Agriculture Victoria has engaged 60 consultancy businesses in Victoria, including more than 90 individual farm advisors, who will assist farmers to take action to develop a drought action management plan.

The Look Over The Farm Gate farmer mental health and wellbeing program is also now open, bringing communities together and supporting farmers and farm families under stress.

The program, managed by the National Centre for Farmer Health on behalf of the Government, will provide grants of up to $5000 for community-led events that promote social connection and mental health awareness.

Other supports are also available including the Farm Household Allowance , and Regional Investment Corporation loans.

The Rural Financial Counselling Service offers free, confidential and independent financial information, options, decisionmaking support and referral services to farmers and small rural businesses who are in, or at risk of, financial hardship.

“It’s so important that farmers and their families know they are not alone, which is why the Look Over the Farm Gate program gives them the opportunity to come together with their community and connect with their neighbours,” Ms Spence said.

Award for Breens

■ Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish has congratulated local Healesville small business Breen Printing for being named Regional Printer of the Year 2025 at the National Print Awards held in Sydney

“Breen is a strong name in the Healesville community. They go above and beyond to assist and ensure the job gets done while producing quality work,” Ms McLeish said.

“They are family owned and operated, and it comes as no surprise to me that they have won this award.

“It is a well-deserved recognition. Well done Kirsty, Luke and the whole Breen team,” Ms McLeish said.

At Lockerbie

■ Kalkallo MLA Ros Spence said it was terrific to recently meet with newest school principals, who will guide the education of students in the growing electorate.

“Anthony Oldmeadow has been appointed principal of the interim-named Lockerbie secondary school in Kalkallo

“This school will be a welcome addition to the Kalkallo community, providing secondary education much closer to home.

“Anthony has held several leadership roles in government schools, including in the north. While in these roles, he has had a strong focus on improving teaching and learning, and he is passionate about supporting students to grow and for staff to excel in a united team.

“It was terrific to hear Anthony’s plans for building an inclusive and innovative school where all students can thrive and reach their full potential.

“Lindsey Delooze has been appointed as principal of interim-named Lockerbie specialist school and brings a wealth of experience to this important role.

“With 20 years experience in education, Lindsey began her teaching career in the UK, focusing on students with additional needs,” Ms Spence said.

40 years for Kestrel Aviation

■ Euroa MLA Annabelle Cleeland has told Parliament that she had the privilege of attending an event celebrating 40 years of Kestrel Aviation

She described the firm as “a local familyowned company that has grown into a global leader in aerial firefighting and emergency response”.

“At the centre of Kestrel’s story are Ray and Eleanor Cronin. Ray’s innovation has transformed how we fight fires, introducing capabilities that have changed how emergency services operate,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Eleanor’s leadership has steered Kestrel with heart, purpose and deep community values.

“Their pioneering firebombing technology was developed at their Mangalore base, and behind every aircraft is a team of pilots, engineers, refuellers and admin staff, all locals living in our community.

“Kestrel’s impact extends far beyond the runway. Whether it is fires, floods or remote rescues, when disaster strikes they are among the first in the sky.

“From our farm we often hear the rotors overhead and step outside. Is it the Black Hawk , the Super Puma , maybe the Long Ranger? My children stare up in awe, and it is in those moments that it is not just about aircraft, it is knowing that help is on the way,” Ms Cleeland said.

Evelyn MP is ‘sneaky thing’

■ Bridget Vallence, Evelyn MLA, has been described by Yan Yean MLA Lauren Kathage as “a sneaky thing”.

“To the third sneaky thing, and that is the member for Evelyn, who tried to make out that there is some difference between the pre-budget and quarterly updates when the content is the same, the analysis is the same and the checks and balances are exactly the same,” Ms Kathage said.

“So although we have had three sneaky attempts to mislead the chamber about this bill, I just will not have it, because none of them have spoken what is fair, true or transparent in this place.

“Let us not forget it; let us call them out every time. We cannot let them continue to talk down our economy, to lie about our investments and to use political approaches to what should be support across the board.”

‘What planet is she on?’

“When I was listening to the contribution from the member for Yan Yean, I was wondering what planet she has been living on for a while,” Ms McLeish said.

“She talked about managing things in a fiscally responsible way, and I just cannot help but draw her to the fact that over the 158 years of Victorian Parliament up until 2014 the State debt was at $23 billion, on a downward trajectory, moving down from 6 per cent of gross state product.

“Ten years later, a decade later, that debt is banging on the door of being $200 billion – 25 per cent of GSP . That is extraordinary.

“I cannot really fathom how a government in 10 years can do such a job of wrecking the budget. On top of that, we heard at the Public Accounts and Estimates Committee that the Treasurer had not done any modelling on the fact that we could get a credit downgrade and what that would mean.

“None of that points to managing the budget in a fiscally responsible way, clearly in contradiction to what the member for Yan Yean believes in the face of that evidence. I think it is a lot of smoke and mirrors and debt and deceit here,” Ms McLeish said.

Local Politics

Sebastian tribute

■ Yan Yean MLA Lauren Kathage says that she has the “best people” in her community.

“That is why today I want to pay special tribute to Sebastian de Spina, who has been recognised for 10 years volunteer service with the SES,” Ms Kathage told the Legilsative Assembly last week.

“What an absolute legend. In that time, he has been part of over 1240 requests for assistance.

“Over 1240 times he has turned up when others could not. He has turned up at the lowest point of somebody’s life.

“He has been there to help. And doesn’t he have a fitting surname – de Spina

“Because volunteers are the backbone of our community. I know that they stand ready to help and be there for my community, and so I say a very big thankyou,” Ms Kathage said.

Thanks Ivan Lister

■ Euroa MLA Annabelle Cleeland told Parliament last week: “This month I also spent time at the Euroa Cattle Sale alongside someone many farmers quietly rely on, Ivan Lister

.

“Ivan is one of the few dedicated mental health advocates in our region, and he does not make a fuss. He is there listening and helping when people need it most.

“At a time when drought and financial pressures hang heavily, that quiet support means everything.

“That same community spirit was alive at the Molyullah fish and fish and chip night. Dams remain empty and feed prices are worrying, but those nights are not about that,” Ms Cleeland said.

Childcare time

■ lauren Kathage, Yan Yean MLA, has thank the kindergartens and childcare centres in her electorate.

“I continued visiting them to share with them information about our early parenting centres and mental health hubs,” Ms Kathage told Parliament.

“I am really keen to make sure that everyone hears about these free services that are so helpful.

“It really made sense yesterday when I spoke with a director, who said, ‘Just yesterday we staff were talking about a mum that we didn’t know how to help. We didn’t know what to do. She told us how she felt,’ and now this woman has somewhere to help her,” Ms Kathage said.

Microgrid open

■ Monbulk MLA Daniela De Martino says it was a was cause for celebration this month when she joined Senator Lisa Darmanin and Yarra Ranges councillors to officially open the Monbulk microgrid.

“This project is paving the way for a more resilient, sustainable energy future and shows what can be achieved when three levels of government come together to address the challenges posed by climate change,” Ms De Martino said.

Bravo Sebastian

■ “It is not often you hear about an acclaimed 14-year-old winemaker,” Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish told State Parliament last week.

“Sebastian Atkins-Davis from Steels Gate Wines in Dixons Creek has gained praise for his unique and well-received ‘smerlot’ and Atkins-Davis cabernet shiraz.

“Seb is following in the footsteps of his fathers, Steels Gate Wines owners and winemakers Matthew Davis and Brad Atkins, and he is leading the way in his winemaking process, even though he is not old enough to drink it. Great job, Seb.

“I look forward to watching what else you achieve and drinking more great wines from Steels Gate,” Ms McLeish said.

Hospital shut

■ “Craigieburn Community Hospital sits locked behind a barbed wire fence and a padlocked gate with a bag over the sign and empty car parks,” said State Opposition Leader, Brad Battin. “The member for Kalkallo bragged that services would begin at Craigieburn Community Hospital in 2024 and that the new community hospital would offer day surgery services.”

■ Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish has asked what planet is Yan Yean MLA Lauren Kathae living on.

● ● Lauren Kathage, Yan Yean MLA

● ● ● Annabelle Cleeland MLA

● ● Bridget Vallence, Evelyn MLA

Observer Melbourne

Michelle Allen and team of Muddy Creek Health Hub, Yea

I have been working as a massage therapist in Yea, at my home for the last 15 years.

I have supported people's relaxation, remedial or correctional and palliative care treatments for this community and it's been an honor.. I have always been fascinated by the body and finding ways of helping people in pain and learning to see if we can push past our symptoms to heal on a deep or lasting level. It's always been a dream of mine to be part of a health hub that includes different types of therapists and modalities coming together.

Technology is happening in our health care industry and with so many amazing minds and by still using old fashioned foundations there is some seriously successful solutions for people's pain and healthcare needs.

My clinic is lucky enough to have Rebecca Bullen join the team as a Remedial Therapist who brings the same values with a different touch to her care for clients.

I have also introduced a Telsa

Former which uses Functional Magnetic Stimulation machine that can change our body on a very deep physiological level.

It supports problems around inflammation, pain, muscular atrophy and injury, stimulates the lymphatic system and supports drainage.

Weight loss or cellulite reduction or body sculpting. Pelvic floor issues and incontinence problems have had huge success and erectile dysfunction also has some.

We have an awesome team to begin with of Rebecca Bullen, Nicole Schryver, Grace Hamilton and myself who look forward to being part of Yea and districts healthcare solutions.

My telephone number is 0419 625 536 if you would like to talk more or even come in and have a look around at our facilities. The clinic's number is 0417 658 366 or email us at info@muddycreekhealthhub. com.au

Our address is 7 The Semi Circle, Yea. The old medical Centre and the old dentist.

Survivors

Survivors

Local Business Profile

PAID ADVERTORIAL

● ● ● ● Michelle Allen, Nicole Schryver, Bek Bullen and Grace Hamilton

● ● Derryn Hinch and Ash Long wwere at the twicea-year Survivors Luncheon at the Emerald Hotel, South Melbourne, last Saturday. The group comprises TV, radio and media veterans. A photo souvenir page, by Gordon Bennett, is inside.

Your Stars with

Kerry Kulkens

Presented by Sarah Kulkens, Australia’s

Trusted Psychic Family

ARIES (March 21 - April 20)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 5, 6

Lotto Numbers: 2, 15, 26, 39, 34, 40

Unexpected changes may surprise you, but most will improve your earning potential. Be cautious with communication—misunderstandings could be costly if you rely on them entirely.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 2, 4

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 26, 34, 33, 1

Your energy levels are improving, but some plans may be delayed. A busy social schedule could leave you feeling drained if you don't rest.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: Mauve

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 2, 3

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 26, 37, 8, 9

Others' opinions may overwhelm you. Avoid unnecessary hassles by focusing on your goals and blocking out distractions.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 1, 2, 1, 5

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 26, 35, 40, 33

Intriguing developments may leave you needing clarification. To avoid complications, trust reliable people and avoid careless friends.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 6, 2

Lotto Numbers: 2, 12, 26, 35, 40, 22

This is an excellent time for introspection. Make independent decisions and expect positive changes from those who want the best for you.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: Apricot

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 5, 2, 1, 3

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 26, 34, 22, 10

Romance flourishes, and someone close may take an interest in your career. Be mindful of how you present yourself and think before you speak.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 5, 3, 2, 1

Lotto Numbers: 2, 15, 5, 12, 21, 22

You may recover something long thought lost. Adaptability will be essential as surprises unfold. A June-born individual could bring you luck.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 1, 6, 9, 8

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 26, 39, 5, 44

Trust your instincts this week, as they may guide you to success. To avoid setbacks, ensure all travel plans are organised and transparent.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Lilac

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 8, 7

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 26, 34, 40, 45

Avoid entanglements with those who may demand more than you're willing to give. Solutions to long-standing issues may present themselves.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Dark Green

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 5, 9, 6, 1

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 26, 5, 44, 3

If you're well-prepared, this is a favourable time for financial speculation. However, domestic issues may require compromise to resolve lingering tensions.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 8, 9, 1, 5

Lotto Numbers: 8, 15, 29, 37, 40, 11

Career and financial prospects are strong, but you must act quickly to seize opportunities. Use your charm to resolve family matters peacefully.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 5, 9, 6, 1

Lotto Numbers: 5, 18, 24, 40, 26, 33

Your social life is thriving, and your presence is in demand. New challenges at work could highlight your ability to learn and adapt.

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.

ALARM OVER CUTBACKS

Sir,

This is my letter to the Health Minister (copied to the Premier) – and the Health Minister’s response regarding the future of children’s services at Maroondah Hospital.

Critically – the future of Breast and Endocrine, Orthopaedics, Urology is still in doubt.

To The Health Minister Dear Minister Thomas,

I am alarmed and, honestly, sickened to my core.

I have grave misgivings now about the administration of Maroondah Hospital while frankly I dfo not know who is responsible for the decision to close the Hospital to children.

As I understand it, staff at Maroondah Hospital have been advised pasediatric services at Maroondah Hosdpital will cease, and all children will be transferred for emergency treatment to Box Hill Hospital commencing November 2025.

Equally alarmingly, in terms of my broader community, and the flow-on impact of reduced regional services will be permanently removed at Healesville and Yarra Ranges hospitals.

I cannot stand by while medical services for women and children are gutted. We should, we must, be providing greater services and access for women and children, not less.

I seek an assurance these draconian decisions will be immediately overturned. They are decisions that are manifestly against the public and patients’ interests and represent a grave mistake and savage breach of trust in the administration of this vital hoispital and its relationship with our local community, our children and women, frankly, everyone.

Ms Thomas’s letter

Dear Mr McGowan,

Thank you for your letter of June 11, 2025, regarding the provision of paediatric and surgical services at Eastern Health.

Eastern Health’s Maroondah Hospital is one of the busiest hospitals in the eastern suburbs, and providing locally accessible paediatric services to that community is essential.

Accordingly, I have made it very clear that I do not support the proposed changes to paediatric service delivery at Maroondah Hospital

My department has instructed Eastern Health to withdraw change impact statements related to proposed changes to paediatric and surgical services at Maroondah Hospital.

The Victorian Budget 202526 also includes an extra $11.1 billion for health. This year alone, the Victorian Government is providing over $31 billion to the health system. This includes a record $9.3 billion boost for our hospitals to keep delivering the worldclass care Victorians rely on.

I trust this information has been of assistance.

Nick McGowan,, MP Ringwood

Red Shield

Sir,

I am constantly amazed by the ability of Australians to come together when it matters most.

Observer Mailbag

Short letters (no more than 200 words) on local subjects are invited from readers. Email to: editor@Melbourne Observer.com.au

Letters must be short and may be edited. All letters to be considered for publication must have a name, street address and phone number so their authenticity can be checked. An email address is not sufficient.

We have seen it countless times in our history as a nation, during times of national crisis, natural disaster, financial unrest and so much more. Aussies know how to come together and help out a mate.

As The Salvation Army, we have also seen this time and time again. We have been helping people doing it tough for over 145 years in Australia, through times of extreme hardship, and the common thread during all those times has been the ability for people to help each other out when they are struggling.

Indeed, we have seen it once again through our Red Shield Appeal this year. While there is still a long way to go, we have been blown away by the generosity of Australians to our Appeal so far.

It is through Aussies digging deep and giving what they can that allows the Salvos to help one person every 17 seconds in Australia

Editor, to all your readers who have supported the Red Shield Appeal, on behalf of The Salvation Army and all those we support every day, we want to offer an enormous thank you.

We know times are tough for so many right now, which makes the generosity we have seen so much more powerful. We can’t do our work without your support, so again, thank you.

But it’s not over yet. The Salvation Army are still calling on Aussies to dig deep for our Red Shield Appeal, which aims to raise $38 million by June 30. These funds will ensure we can continue to support those in our community

doing it tough into the future. You can be the hope people desperately need right now. We trust that Aussies will once again be generous to the Red Shield Appeal this month, and this isn’t a blind trust. It is founded on the fact that we have seen it many times before, and we believe we will see it again.

So once more, to all those who have supported the Red Shield Appeal so far, and to all those who will, we say thank you.

To make a tax-deductible donation to The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal, please visit salvationarmy. org.au or call 13 SALVOS. You can also donate at any Salvos Store.

Colonel Rodney Walters

The Salvation Army

Private health

Sir, Specialist fees are a concern, but they are not the main reason for out-of-pocket costs being barriers to private healthcare.

The real issue lies in the design of private health insurance, which typically come with exclusions and restrictions.

Many policies do not cover common procedures or only offer partial coverage, leading to high out-of-pocket costs.

While the number of people insured for hospital treatment has grown from 11.2 million in December 2019 to 12.5 million in March 2025, the number of people on exclusionary hospital policies has grown from 6.6 million to 8.6 million in the

The percentage of hospital policies with exclusions by insurers has grown from 57.7 per cent in December 2019 to 67.6 per cent in March 2025.

High and growing insurance membership does not translate into high private hospital use due to inadequate coverage. The complexity and lack of transparency in insurance policies discourage patients from using private care.

To increase private hospital use and ease pressure on the public system, insurance products must be reformed to be more comprehensive, transparent and user-friendly.

Private hospital admissions have increased 3 per cent over the last year (from 4.9 million to over 5.1 million), yet private hospitals face an existential crisis. Why? Clearly, it has little to do with volumes but payments.

As recently recorded by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority, in the last quarter to March alone the payment ratio to private hospitals from insurers plummeted from 83 per cent to just 80.7 per cent. That’s virtually 20 per cdent of the premiums mums and dads pay for health insurance being siphoned into insurance company coffers.

Federal Health Minister Mark Butler publicly put the health insurance industry on notice to increase payments to private hospitals or he would regulate them to do so. That deadline has lapsed and nothing has changed.

Brett Heffernan Chief Executive Officer Australian Private Hospitals Association

Tatts winners

■ Maybe it's Chloe, I dunno. But that Y. & J.'s would be the luckiest corner in town. Manager Alan Ryan has taken out thousands in Tatt's, including first prize. In each ot the last five consultations he's won a fiver. The staff have taken out hundreds. And now Sol Goodman, who's been selling papers on the corner for years, has got the luck bug. Ten days ago he struck £ 1,000. Yesterday he got another £350.

Games played

■ Bridge rd. estate agent currently advertises in his window two 10-room double storey places in Caulfield as "suitable for Olympic Gaines accommodation."

Footy cheer

■ Tip at Daylesford they're still celebrating - the local football team's win last Saturday. Beat North Ballarat by 63 points. Extraordinary that they're still celebrating - after a week? Well, not really. Hadn't had a win since August. August, that is, 1953.

Hotel prison

■ W.J. Davis writes from one of our top hotels-on its note paper - and apparently he won't be staying there long .

“Until I reached Melbourne - and I have travelled the world-I had never been in a cell. This cell is my hotel room where I can drown myself in water, Scotch, beer, or any thing else. I can entertain a friend, or friends, male or female.

“Everything is driven from the open. atmosphere of a hotel public lounge to the CELLS.

“Your legislators have the sheer audacity to say the liquor laws of the rest of the world are wrong. '

“People of Victoria! Don't be a lot of sheep! I, like many more, am travelling on to freedom.

“We're getting used to people telling us what's wrong with us, Mr. Davies. The people will have their say in the summer re ferendum.

Cash in a call

■ Next time you see an accident, a fire, or any kind of news it could mean money to you.

Dial FY0211 and ask for the reporters' room.

That's all there is to it.

Your camera, too, could mean another cheque.

■ Congratulations to MelbourneObserver reviewer Maggie Morrison for being recognised in the 2025 King's Birthday Honours Awards list with a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) 'for services to the performing arts through theatre’.

Maggie has been involved in teaching and drama for more than four decades, including teaching drama at Mentone Girls’ Secondary College in the 1980s.

During this time, Maggie organised a travelling theatre for her drama students, with an old milk cart, entertaining primary schools.

More than 15 years ago when researching the history of her home after retirement, Maggie discovered that a former owner was Mordialloc's 1958 Mayor, Gertrude McKenzie, who operated her own flying school and owned eight planes.

Maggie decided to write a play about Gertrude, and co-founded the theatre company Legends of the Skies (LOTS)

The play was a success and, 15 years later, LOTS Theatre continues to present annual shows at the Moorabbin Air Museum, paying tribute to Australian aviation figures, with Maggie as artistic director.

Bravo Maggie Morrison OAM. Hope you enjoy every moment of this special time.

Cheryl Threadgold

Songs for A New World

■ Soundworks Productions presents Songs for a New World from August 5-10 at Chapel off Chapel, Prahran.

With music and lyrics by Jason Robert Brown, the show is directed by Lauren McKenna, musical direction by Benjamin Samuel, and Benjamin Curé is the choreographer.

Soundworks Productions have elevated a piece already written for four voices, to a rich tapestry of 14 performers singing the music theatre tracks originally written for four. The show will also feature a live band on stage (led by Conductor Mark Bradley). The return season of Songs For A New World is described as “an electrifying journey of hope, love, loss, and the transformative power of choices”.

Performance Season: August 5 - 10 Tues – Thurs 7pm, Fri and Sat 7:30pm, Sat and Sun 2pm Preview Tuesday August 5 7pm

Bookings: Online via www.anewworld. com.au (this event has assigned seating)

Venue: Chapel off Chapel (The Chapel), 12 Little Chapel Street, Prahran

Duration: 2 hours including a 20-minute interval

Age Suitability: 15+ Warnings: Haze, smoke effects, strobe lighting, loud noises, adult themes.

Cheryl Threadgold

Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

Vale Christine Burrows

■ The passing of Christine (Andrew) Burrows on May 19 is a sad loss for her husband, Melbourne theatre director Alan Burrows, their family, and Melbourne's theatre community.

Using her stage name of Christine Andrew, Christine started her amateur theatrical career in music theatre at the Williamstown Light Opera Company in 1972, where she played in Kismet,CalamityJane,HalfaSixpence,Bye ByeBirdieand SweetCharity

Moving to CLOC in 1974, she starred in Can Can,AnnieGetYourGun,Gypsyand Howto SucceedinBusiness...and was awarded Best Female Lead by The Music Theatre Guild of Victoria as Mame in CLOC Musical Theatre’s production of Mamein 1990.

Prior to this, she performed with Festival Theatre Company in SeeSaw and Little Me, winning the Best Actress in a Musical award twice in the Free Entertainment in the Parks Awards.

Other notable leads in musicals with other companies include Cabaret, You’re a Good Man,CharlieBrown,CalamityJane,Bunchof Ratbagsand WestSideStory

In the 1980s, Christine was at the height of her theatrical career. She performed professionally for Melbourne Music Theatre three times; the highlight being playing the role of Aldonza in ManofLaManchaopposite Norman Yemm

Other roles were in PiratesofPenzanceand HMSPinafore; the latter she performed twice, the second outing being presented on the PollyWoodside. Christine sang professionally for a dance band at the Moorabbin Town Hall, worked in three theatre restaurants - Stage Door, Shani’s and Nero’s Fiddle - and secured an ongoing small part in the television series Prisonerfor three years.

She appeared in Neighbours, several television commercials, and numerous shopping centre pantomimes.

Since that time, she continued to perform in musicals including 42Street,SweetCharity,TheRink,ALittleNightMusic,Nunsense, HelloDolly,Something’sAfoot,FiddlerOnThe Roof, Nuncrackers, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, High Society and the delightful one women musical MovingOn, written by Cen Fox

A change of career in the early 1990s, saw Christine gain a Licentiate in Teaching Special Speech and Drama from Trinity College London, and she began teaching in private schools. This concentration on text led her down the path of performing in straight plays.

She then performed in leading roles in plays with Mordialloc, Brighton, Malvern, Williamstown, Eltham, Heidelberg, Peridot, Encore, Eltham, Mitcham, Stonnington and Lilydale Theatre Companies, winning many in-house awards.

One of Christine's last plays was SixDance LessonsinSixWeeks, which she performed at Williamstown, Peridot and finally Lilydale Theatre Companies. In 2017, she won the Lyrebird award for Best Actress in a Comedy.

All in all, Christine performed in more than 80 productions in addition to her professional work, while still managing to bring up two sons, continue with her teaching career and manage a household. A remarkable achievement. Deepest sympathy to Alan and family, and Christine's many friends.

Vale Christine Cheryl Threadgold (with thanks to Alan Burrows)

A Reflection In Time

■ On a cold winter’s night the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra warmed hearts and cheered spirits with its A Reflection In Time concert celebrating three passionate and dramatic compositions from the mid-twentieth century. Consisting of orchestral works by composers from three different countries, the first half of the program saw performances of Samuel Barber’s AdagioforStrings(1936) and Erich Korngold’s ViolinConcerto(1945). The second half of the evening was taken up entirely by Dmitri Shostakovich’s SymphonyNo.5(1937).

The MSO’s Principal Conductor Benjamin Northey was in fine form on the night as he led the orchestra with great aplomb in successfully meeting the contrasting demands of

●

● ● ● Christine (Andrew) Burrows each work. From the mournful pathos of Barber’s adagio to the strident bombastic energy of Shostakovich’s symphony, the orchestra rose to the challenges each work presented by responding with flair and skill to Northey’s expressive and inspiring conducting.

For Korngold’s concerto he and the orchestra were joined by a shining light of Australian classical music in the form of Australian violinist Christian Li.

Born in Melbourne, Li’s prodigious talentat the age of 13 he became the youngest artist ever signed by the prestigious Decca Classics label - was there for all to see.

Aged just 17, his maturity and virtuosity playing the violin was quite staggering. Of the three movements that made up the concerto the final one, allegro assai vivace, showcased his tremendous musical skills.

The MSO goes from strength to strength in its offerings to the Melbourne classical music loving audience, both in the range of the works it presents and in the quality of its performances. It is a jewel in the crown of Melbourne culture, one we can all celebrate and enjoy.

Venue: Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne. mso.com.au

Review by Peter Murphy

Rumbleskin

■ Dirty Pennies Theatre Project presents Rumbleskinby Ames May Nunn from July 1727 at fortyfivedownstairs, 45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne. A trucker picks up a pregnant teen on a long stretch of nowhere. A young rodeo rider stumbles into a mysterious ranch. A fugitive comes to a cursed town in search of safety.

An affliction known as the Rumbleskin is stretching itself across the country, and if one thing is clear, it’s that nothing is as it seems. No one knows how it began, but everyone has a story about it.

Rumbleskin is described as 'a new queer folk tale exploring transformation in a strange and dangerous land.'

July 17-27

fortyfivedownstairs (45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne)

Bookings: fortyfivedownstairs.com/event/ rumbleskin/ Cheryl Threadgold

Afterimage

■ Tolarno Galleries present Afterimage, an extraordinary exhibition of 55 paintings by Tim Maguire.

Afterimage features an array of small paintings, each meticulously arranged to create a vibrant cosmos of colour and creativity, inviting viewers to explore the interconnectedness of individual works.

The exhibition is said to be a bold move by Maguire, who is renowned for super-sized floral imagery often pulled from art history.

New, chromatically charged works exploit the visual phenomenon of an afterimage and will linger in the visitor’s eye – and mind – long after they have viewed the show.

A Streetcar Named Desire

■ Winner of the 1947 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, Tennessee Williams’s AStreetcar NamedDesireis an American classic.

In director Benedict Andrews’s production filmed for National Theatre Live, the updated setting is no longer post-World War II New Orleans but the present day.

Fading southern belle, Blanche DuBois, visits her sister Stella in the French Quarter

From the moment Blanche arrives in the ironically-named Elysian Fields, the play presents the struggle between Blanche’s delusions of grandeur and Stella’s ex-Army husband Stanley’s unadulterated, raw power.

Blanche engages in a fruitless struggle for her sister’s affections with the broodingly menacing Stanley, weaving fairytales of her circumstances.

Ben Foster’s unforgiving, hulking, alpha male Stanley suspects his sister-in-law of cheating when she reveals a lost inheritance, the family home claimed by creditors.

Confrontation is inevitable when Stanley overhears Blanche describe him as an “ape”.

Blanche’s fragile world begins to crumble in the clash between illusion and reality.

With nowhere to go and all her bridges burned, Blanche descends into madness.

Vanessa Kirby is torn as the pregnant Stella, whose first loyalty is to Stanley, but who ends up a reluctant referee mediating between her husband and sister as they fight it out.

Foster’s Stanley simmers with resentment, violence always just under the surface.

But it is the excellent Gillian Anderson who steals the show as the disintegrating Blanche, clinging to her fancies and chimeras.

That said, the current update contains strange and disturbing elements.

The explosive domestic violence is hard to watch, particularly its acceptance by Stella and their friends.

That Blanche is the only one to comment on Stanley’s violence seems to place it in its original 1940s setting.

In the present, Stanley’s violent outbursts terrorise the action.

Now showing in select Australian cinemas. Review by Kathryn Keeble

Love, Love, Love

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company presents Love,Love,Loveby Mike Bartlett from July 4 - 19 at 36 Turnham Avenue, Rosanna. Directed by George Werther, Love,Love, Love is described as having 'a galloping satirical wit that pulls you along, happy and appalled, through the decades.'

The story tells of Sandra and Kenneth, born into the optimistic “baby-boomer” generation and ready to “change the world”.

We follow their lives from the heady 60s into the challenging 90s, with their adolescent children seeking new directions.

We then meet them in the new millennium, as they and their now adult children have very different needs and conflicting world views.

The baby-boomers discover life is not a bed of roses.

Performance Season: July 4 - 19. Evenings at 8pm: July 4, 9, 10, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19; Weekend Matinees at 2pm: July 5, 6, 12, 13 Venue: Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna.

Bookings: htc.org.au

Cheryl Threadgold

● ● Maggie Morrison OAM

Photo: Malcolm Threadgold

●

● Alessandra Merlo in Songs for a New World. Photo: Matthew Chen

● ● Genya Mik (left) and Julia Hearn rehearse Love, Love, Love. Photo: David Belton.

Local Theatre Observations

Shows

■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: The Importance of Being Earnest (by Oscar Wilde) Until June 28 at the Warrandyte Mechanics’ Institute, 180 – 186 Yarra St, Warrandyte. Director: James Banger. Bookings: warrandytearts.org.au

■ Essendon Theatre Company: Things I Know to be True (by Andrew Bovell) Until June 28 at the Bradshaw Street Community Theatre, Bradshaw St., West Essendon. Director: Angelo Snell. Bookings: 0406448368 or Trybooking

■ Malvern Theatre Company: Macbeth (by William Shakespeare) Until July 5 at 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East. Director: David McLean. Bookings: 1300 131 552.

■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Rabbit Hole (by David Lindsay-Abaire) June 25 – July 12 at 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: John Bishop. Bookings: wlt.org.au/booktickets

■ Wangaratta Players: Rumours (by Neil Simon) June 27 – July 6 at Stage Door Theatre, 4D Evans St., Wangaratta. Director: Steve Thornycroft and Leanne Kelly. Bookings: Trybooking.

■ The Basin Theatre: The Quest to Save Dinosaur Island (written and directed by Jason Triggs) June 28 – 29 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Bookings: 0494 065 006

■ MLOC Productions: The Pirate Queen (Boublil and Schönberg) July 1 – 19 at the Frankston Arts Centre, Davey St., Frankston. Director: Chris Ryan; Musical Director: Matthew Pines.

■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: The Diary of Anne Frank (by Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett) July 3 – 19 at the Lilydale Mechanics’ Institute, Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Kellie Tweeddale. Bookings: lilydaleatc.com

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Love, Love, Love (by Mike Bartlett) July 4 – 19 (2pm matinees on weekends) at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: George Werther. Bookings: htc.org.au

■ Off the Leash Theatre: Things I Know to be True (by Andrew Bovell) July 17 – 20 at the West Gippsland Arts Centre, 1 Civic Place, Warragul. Director: Amy Moss. Bookings: offtheleashtheatre.com.au

■ Theatrical: Legally Blonde July 12-27 at the National Theatre, St Kilda. Director: Aimee F orrest; Musical Director: Kent Ross Choreographer: Maggie Lynch, Bookings: booktickets.com.au

■ Fab Nobs Theatre: Zombie Prom - The Atomic Edition. July 11 – 20 at Fab Nobs Theatre, 33 Industry Place, Bayswater. Director: Maeghan McKenzie; Choreographer: Dean Robinson; Musical Director: Sally McKenzie. fabnobstheatre.com.au

■ CPP Community Theatre: Seussical Jr. July 11, 12, 15, 17, 18 at 7.30pm; July 12,19 2pm; July 13 5pm at Boronia K-12 College, Performing Arts Centre, Albert Ave., Boronia (park at Rangeview Rd. end). Director/ Musical Director: Helen Taylor; Associate Director: Fiona Rosel. Bookings: cppcommunitytheatre.com.au/

■ Darebin Arts Speakeasy: Garçon with Wani Toaishara, July 16 – 20 at the Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre, 189 High St, Northcote. Bookings: arts.darebin. vic.gov.au/Programs-and-opportunities/ Programs/Speakeasy-presentations/garconby-wani-toaishara

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Lord Savile’s Crime (by Constance Cox) July 24

– August 2 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Director: Deborah Fabbro. Bookings: mordialloctheatre.com.

au

■ Encore Theatre: Agatha Crispie (by Cenarth Fox) July 18 – 27 at the Clayton Theatrette, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: David Dodd. Bookings: Trybooking.

■ Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria (GSOV): The Mikado July 17 – 20 at The Alexander Theatre, Monash University, Clayton. Bookings: gsov.org.au

■ PLOS Musical Productions: We Will Rock You. July 25 – August 2 at the Frankston Arts Centre, Davey St., Frankston. Director: Paul Watson. Bookings: plos.asn.au or 9784 1060.

Cheryl Threadgold

COMEDY REPUBLIC

■ Comedy Republic, the independent comedy venue at 231 Bourke St, Melbourne, that launched during the 2020 lockdowns, celebrates its fifth birthday this July.

To mark the milestone, a one-night-only birthday gala will be presented at The Capitol Theatre on July 3, featuring Wil Anderson, Celia Pacquola, Rhys Nicholson, Tom Ballard, Geraldine Hickey and more.

After opening in 2020 with just 25 guests allowed through the doors, the Comedy Republic has grown into one of Australia's leading comedy stages, hosting more than 42,000 audience members annually, building a loyal fanbase and championing local talent yearround.

Co-founded by comedians Kyran Nicholson, Rhys Nicholson and Alex Dyson, the Comedy Republic is a genuine survival story from the heart of Melbourne’s arts scene.

“I know it’s tradition to say nice things when it’s someone’s birthday, but even if Comedy Republic wasn't turning five, I would say that quite simply, it is the best,” says Celia Pacquola Comedian, Host of Thank God You’re Here

“It has the wonderful feel of a venue run by comedy kids for comedy kids but everyone is an adult because it’s also a licensed bar. Ideal. Happy Birthday, please never ever ever ever close,”

Opening during one of Victoria's lockdown periods, the whole dream could have been dead before it began.

But after much persistence, a supportive Melbourne City Council and a city desperate for some laughs, five years on, Comedy Republic has grown exponentially.

The venue’s YouTube channel accumulated over 600,000 views and achieved subscriber growth exceeding 3000 per cent within the past six months alone, reflecting the global appetite for Melbourne-based comedy content.

Australian comedy legend and Gruen host Wil Anderson said of the venue: "I have done 29 years of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, but my favourite of them all was the most recent that I performed at Comedy Republic

“The entire venue is purpose built to enhance people’s experience of the night. It is a room purpose built for comedy because it was purpose built by people who love comedy and you can feel it in the walls.

“In some ways it surprises me we are only celebrating five years of Comedy Republic, as it feels an established and vital part of both the Melbourne comedy scene but the arts scene in general.

“The most exciting thing of all is that I know we are only in the opening chapter of this story, the real success of Comedy Republic will be seen in the future in the work of all the artists they have given the space to be their authentic and wonderful comedy selves and take the risks that are necessary for artists to evolve.

“Bravo to five years, and I can’t wait to see what is next and hope to play whatever part that they need me for“.

lows audiences to experience top-rated festival performances again or even dabble for the first time.

The festival plays an ever increasing role in supporting the local arts community, creating opportunities for local comedy talent in an otherwise quiet season.

Last year, the festival generated over $100,000 in revenue for the comedians and their teams, and this year aims to make an even greater impact with its expansion into a second venue, with more shows.

Birthday Gala Performance: July 3 at The Capitol Theatre, 113 Swanston St, Melbourne.

Tickets on sale now at: comedyrepublic.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Thrones Parody

■ Thrones!TheMusicalParody, which played at the Alex Theatre in St Kilda, was something of a hit-and-miss affair in its attempts to make fun of the hit HBO TV series Game of Thrones(GoT), with moments of genuine hilarity offset by jokes that simply were not funny.

The setting for the parody is cleverly done. A group of die-hard GoT fans try to cheer up the sister of one of their number who has recently been divorced.

They do this as they gather to watch the series finale but discover that the divorcee has never seen the show so they bring her up-tospeed by reenacting highlights from all eight seasons.

Second Chance

Integral to Comedy Republic's success story is Replay Festival, held each July, which al●

Auditions

■ Western Arts Theatre: The Drowsy Chaperone. June 26, 28 at the Essendon Baptist Church, 134 Buckley St, Essendon. Booking: trybooking.com/events/landing/ 1412759..

■ Williamstown Little Theatre: The Hollow Crown (by John Barton) June 29 at 1.00pm and June 30 at 7.30pm at 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Peter Newling. Audition bookings: www.wlt.org.au/book-tickets

■ Encore Theatre: The Revlon Girl (by Anthony Docking) June 29 at 2.00pm, July 1 at 7.30pm at Fleigner Hall, 31 Highland Ave, Oakleigh East. Director: David Krause. Audition bookings: encoretheatre.com.au

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. July 27 at 10.30am and July 28 at 7.00pm at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Tim Scott. Audition bookings: timascott56@ gmail.com

■ Brighton Theatre Company: The Good Life (by Jeremy Sams based on TV series by John Esmonde and Bob Larbey) August 17 and August 18 at 7.00pm at the Bayside Arts and Cultural Centre, Cnr Wilson and Carpenter Sts., Brighton. Director: Joanne Gabriel. Audition Enquiries: Jo Gabriel at pukfam@bigpond.net.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Written by the US comedy ensemble Baby Wants Candy, the script was easy enough to follow. The three elements - musical numbers, support for the divorcee and GoT scene reenactments - were never confused. However, the writing/composing in all three was very uneven in quality.

Sometimes this uneven quality didn’t matter as energetic bravado performances saved the day. Some such highlights were Conor Putland’s portrayal of Jon Snow with a hilarious ridiculously thick northern English accent, the wonderful re-creation of a dragon using nothing but an umbrella and cloth and a great hip hop number depicting the red wedding.

Nevertheless, such highlights were too few in number, with musical numbers marred when they were screamed rather than sung while dramatic scenes failed to move due to poor acting.

The creative team of director David Venn, assistant director and choreographer James Elmer and musical director Glen Barnett all have moments to be proud of when the show worked and the broad bawdy humour and singing paid off.

Still, the show felt under rehearsed/underwritten and suffered greatly for it.

Thrones! was a mixed bag then. Enjoyable perhaps for die-hard fans of GoT, a general more discerning audience might not have been so forgiving of the show’s numerous shortcomings.

For further information about the event: https://thrones.com.au/ Review by Peter Murphy

●

Barbara Hannay

■ Finding happiness after grief is something everyone hopes to experience.

That’s the theme of popular rural fiction author Barbara Hannay in her latest novel, SecondChanceFamily. Callie is a young widow with three children and still grieving the loss of her beloved partner when she receives an unusual offer.

She finds she has inherited one half of Hawkridge, a beautiful property in Far North Queensland’s Misty Mountains area, and is puzzled about why she has been the beneficiary.

Like all good family tales, there is more to the situation than meets the eye, which Callie gradually discovers as she gets to know Ben Galbraith, a Scotsman who is her co-inheritor. Ben assisted Hawkridge’s owner in the final years of his life. And the twist here is that the property can’t be sold for 12 months, so Callie and Ben must learn to manage this tricky co-owner situation.

Hannay has lived in the area she was writing about, and has fond memories of it so decided to set her story there.

As two of Callie’s three children are teenage twin girls. Hannay drew on her own life to get some insights from her own two teenage identical twin granddaughters, who were very excited about being the inspiration for their grandmother’s fictional characters.

Hannay always writes a good yarn with questions that make the reader think, and SecondChanceFamilyis no exception. It is published by Penguin Random House and available online and in bookstores now.

- Julie Houghton

Macbeth

■ Malvern Theatre Company presents William Shakespeare's Macbethuntil July 5 at 29 Burke Road, Malvern East

Directed by David McLean, Macbeth is described as “Shakespeare's most thrilling story, of unchecked ambition, witches and ghosts, castles and swordfights ... a harrowing exploration of crime and guilt, power and corruption”.

“Stars, hide your fires. Let not light see my black and deep desires”. A valiant and trusted soldier, Macbeth, is propelled down a dark and treacherous path when an encounter with supernatural beings brings to the surface secret dreams of power.

Spurred on by his ruthless wife, he embarks on a terrifying quest to seize the Scottish crown. But once seized, it must be kept. Macbeth’s determination leads him into a nightmare world of murder and madness, taking the country to the very brink of catastrophe.

Malvern Theatre Company’s president Andrew Ferguson says: “This production of Macbeth will excite all lovers of this classic play.”

Performance Season: Until July 5. Venue: Malvern Theatre, 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East

Bookings: malverntheatre.com.au or 1300 131 552

Cheryl Threadgold

Co-founders of the Comedy Republic: Rhys Nicholson, Alex Dyson and Kyran Nicholson.

● ● Joshua Bruce (Macbeth) and Hannah Holmes (Lady Macbeth) in Macbeth. Photo: Andrew Ferguson

CATO THE WISE

Maxwell Newton

★A conversation with three global leaders in sport, sports technology and the business of sport will take place at Beyond the Game: Innovation and Tech in Sport at The Edge - Fed Square at 5pm for 5.30pm on Monday, July 14. Panellists are Joe Costanzo, Laura Kane and Todd Deacon. Moderator is John Wylie

★The State Government has appointed Tim Wiebusch as Victoria’s Emergency Management Commissioner

★Panorama House in Middle Park has taken out the award for Residential Decoration.

★Tabcorp Holdings Limited has been penalised $4,003,270 for sending more than 5700 marketing messages to customers of its VIP program that broke Australia’s spam laws.

★Annie is opening at the Princess Theatre on July 8.

★Carrie Bickmore and Tommy Little (Hit Network) have raised $1.1M for brain cancer research, with involvement in a marathon run in South Africa.

★Cabaret De Paris has aded a third show to its season at The Palms at Crown on Saturday-Sunday, July 5-6. The show stars Rhonda Burchmore.

★Waltzing the Wilarra will be performed at the Clocktower, 750 Mt Alexander Road, Moonee Ponds, at 7.30pm on Sunday, July 20. It is is an Australian musical play written and composed by David Milroy, set in a mixed-race dance club in postWorld War II Perth.

★A would-be Bendigo councillor, Mary Ann Martinek, facing a charge of breaching an intervention order, has been slapped with 20 more charges relating to allegedly moving her neighbour’s rubbish bins, reports the Herald Sun.

★Authors Madeleine Cleary and Anne Freeman will present a literary event that talks about sex work, feminism, crime, and agency. Free, but bookings are essential. Readings Hawthorn 6pm-7.30pm on August 14.

★ Yarra Valley Water has been named as the highest ranked water corporation in the Financial Times Asia-Pacific Climate Leaders 2025 list.

★Revo Fitness has unveiled its $1.6 million full-scale upgrade of its Cranbourne club.

★Brimbank Council has welcomed the induction of First Nations leader Uncle Shane Charles into the Victorian Aboriginal Honour Roll.

★The Seeing Eye Dog show case will be held at 17 Barrett St, Kensington from 10.30am1.30pm on July 28.

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Rourke’s Reviews Entertainment Green Room

★Rosie Walton celebrated 30 years in radio on Triple M Melbourne, with a special celebration in last Friday's Mick In The Morning program with Roo, Titus and Rosie

★ A book, The Last Man Standing, is being released next month by Barry Michael, published by New Holland. it is described as a powerful and personal memoir from one of Australia’s most legendary boxing champions. It is said to be “an honest, behindthe-scenes look at the gritty realities of professional boxing where big money, big egos, and big careers are on the line”.

★Harry Coulsons Blue Dogs are set to play the Edinburgh Castle Brunswick on Thursday (June 26) with the tunes to kick off at 8pm. The music is best catagorised as ‘Pub Jazz’ and ‘Bush Blues.

★Sydney Hotshots – billed as Australia’s Ultimate Ladies Night Out Show is playing the Yorkshire Stingo Hotel on Friday, July 4.

★Book Week 2025 is fast ap proaching (Aug. 16-23), and many parents are eagerly searching for the perfect costume to dress up their children as their favourite book characters. Last year, local schools such as Box Hill High School and Templestowe Heights Primary School made significant efforts during Book Week to raise funds for a literacy charity, providing books to disadvantaged children.

★Entertainer, singer, and mental health advocate Rob Mills has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Australian Children's Music Foundation

★Vinnies last week held the 15th annual CEO Sleepout at South Melbourne Market.

★ Mason Dervish from TransPlumb Events in East Melbourne, has been named as winner of a $3000 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant

★Kids Helpline says there is evidence that Australian children and young people are increasingly facing mental health challenges, with the rate of mental health and emotional wellbeing concerns rising from 31 per cent In 2014 to 41 per cent in 2024 for children aged 5 to 14.

★William J. Byrne has written his debut novel, The Warrumbar, a fictional story influenced by his family's struggles and resilience.

★Reuben Kaye’s queer in spired spectacle Opera Up Late is making its Melbourne debut for one night only on Sunday November 2 at the Regent.

Samaná Sunrise

■ Two couples, Ale (Luisa Mayol) and Santi (Luis Tosar), and Natalia (Bárbara Santa-Cruz) and Mario (Luis Zahera), all best friends, take a trip to the Caribbean to celebrate their anniversaries.

Fired up with the romantic location and numerous cocktails, Ale confesses that 20 years ago, on the night when they all first met, she manipulated the initial couplings.

Ale stage-managed a car breakdown to thwart Mario and flirt with Santi, who seemed interested in Natalia.

Thinking that all will accept her confession after 20 years as a joke, Ale is surprised at her friends’ angry reaction.

Too many drinks and an accidental stumble into a palm tree result in a blow to her head that initiates the first twist in the story.

Ale wakes up with a vicious hangover, convinced that she is married to her best friend’s long-term husband, utterly baffled as to why her husband claims to be Natalia’s partner and Mario is pretending to be hers.

This is the setup for SamanáSunrise, a fun and bright comedy directed by Rafa Cortés, based on the 2007 play Cancúnby Jordi Galcerán.

Like a character in a Carry On movie, enter Charles Dance playing a fellow holidaymaker who also happens to be a psychiatrist.

His advice is to play along until Ale comes to her senses.

Relationships are tested as the two couples navigate the alternate reality.

Set in the tropical paradise of the Dominican Republic , jokes come thick and fast as the friends try to accommodate Ale’s newfound revelation.

Combining screwball slapstick physical comedy, reflective moments, and some surprising twists, the excellent ensemble cast seamlessly blends comedy with finely tuned drama.

Now showing at select Australian cinemas.

Review by Kathryn Keeble

Survivors

Luncheon

■ In attendance at last Saturday’s Survivors twice-yearly luncheon were Mandy Aitchison, John Allan, Carole Ann Aylett, Chris Bahen, Len Baker, Gordon Bennett, Mike Brady, Grant Brown, John Browne, Jeff and Ian Campbell, Paul Cashmere, Sally Cockburn, Shawn Cosgrove, Rob Curtain, Ric Ditchburn and Suzanne, Bill Duff, Judy Green, Barbara Harper, Ron Hawkswell, Derryn Hinch, John Humphrey, Mark Irvine, Larry James, Gwen Johnston, Jeff Jospeh, Sandy Kaye, Nathan Koch, Jack Levi, Keith Livingston, Ash Long, Keith Livingston, David Mann, Angela McGowan, Bruce and Noala McKay, Tony McManus, Gary McQuade, Barbara Mead, Ian Neil, Gary Newton, Paul Nicholson, Denis O'Kane, Tim O’Kane, Andrew Pante, Alan Pearsall, Beverley Pinder, Dean Reynolds, Bronwyn Robimnson, Chris Ryan, Mark Simmons, Brian Smith, Pete Smith, Sue Stark, Ian Stewart, Andre Switzer, Kevin Trask, John Vertigan (Snr), Jon Vertigan (Jnr), Heidi Victoria, Craig Willis and Gavin Wood

Apologies included those from Dee Dee Dunleavy, Denis Walter, Mike Larkan, Muriel Cooper. Rod Hardy, Pat Panetta, Paul Walsh, Ryle Moldrich, Julie Houghton, Peter Gomm, Mike Menner, Di Rolle, Liz Sullivan, Annette Allison, Mal Walden, Carryl Browne, Tony Tardio, Paul Konik, Ted Ryan, Nathan Koch, John Michael Howson, Graeme Turpie, Lee and Jan Simon, Peter Van and Craig Huggins.

■ (R). 95 minutes. Now available on Blu-Ray and DVD.

Balancing a slow-burn intensity with moments of ferocious violence, the new film from writer/director Jeremy Saulnier (BlueRuin, HoldTheDark,RebelRidge) supplies the kind of edge-of-your-seat thrills that is missing from so many American thrillers made today.

Like Blue Ruin, things begin quietly. A punk rock band called the Ain’t Rights, made up of singer Tiger (Callum Turner) , bassist Pat (Anton Yelchin, who was tragically killed in June of this year), guitarist Sam (Alia Shawkat), and drummer Reece (Joe Cole), have just completed a 90 mile road trip to a gig that has fallen through.

The guy who organised the show offers them an alternative job; to perform at an Oregon roadhouse where his cousin works at.

Seeing that they have no other option, as the gig will cover their travel expenses, the group agree. Just one warning - the place is run and frequented by skinheads.

Once the band arrives at the roadhouse, they are greeted by the manager, Gabe (Macon Blair) , whose attitude is blunt and tothe-point.

After their set is over, the group return to the green room, but are shocked at what they see before them.

Now witnesses to a crime, all four, plus fellow rocker Amber (Imogen Poots), are locked up in this small space by Gabe , who nervously waits for his right-wing fundamentalist leader Darcy (Patrick Stewart) to arrive on the scene.

Once everyone realises that things aren’t going to end well, the decision is made to take on these ruthless skinheads head-on.

Saulnier, an obvious fan of the genre films that littered the cinematic landscape during the 1970s and especially the 80s, cleverly takes an existing template and puts his own distinctive stamp on it.

The comparisons are easy to make. Evil Deadwith skinheads. Assault On Precinct 13 with skinheads. As a genre entry, Green Roomis first-rate. Instead of bombarding the audience from the opening frame, Saulnier slowly draws us towards the dreaded moment of impact, making sure the audience’s nerves have been worked on sufficiently, before letting loose with a perfectly timed series of vicious set-pieces.

Even when the film becomes graphically violent, this talented film-maker doesn’t merely rely on the grue to achieve shock value, he thankfully continues to sustain the unsettling edge developed earlier in proceedings.

Though not as psychologically complex as his brilliant BlueRuin, Saulnier still examines his characters and the world they inhabit.

The green room the band find themselves trapped in becomes quite symbolic, exposing what kind of people we are, what we’re capable of, and finding meaning in why we do the things we do.

It’s a fascinating combination of visceral and cerebral that makes for heady, memorable viewing.

Another major plus is that the villains are never presented as unstoppable monsters, rather they are intimidating human beings that share a frightening viewpoint.

This, along with its measured, subdued finale, will disappoint

those viewers who crave for Michael Bay-style pyrotechnics. Performances are strong, with Stewart thoroughly enjoying his nasty role. There is also another reliably good turn from Imogen Poots (Centurion,28WeeksLater). Technical credits are excellent, from Sean Porter’s stylish cinematography to Julia Bloch’s perfect editing, and special mention must also go to Ryan Warren Smith’s seedy production design and Brooke and Will Blair’s authentic-sounding punk score. It is great to see one of many films reference iconic director John Carpenter. On top of the close-quarters premise itself (Precinct13, as mentioned), there are two specific homages to TheThingthat fans will definitely appreciate. GreenRoommay prove too intense for some, but for those who want to be reminded of what it was like to be gripped by genuine suspense and fear, then this is the must-see movie for you.

RATING - ****½.

Hell or High Water

■ (M). 102 minutes. Now available on Blu-ray and DVD.

A lean, elegiac mix of classic western morals and post-GFC tragedy, this incredibly smart, boldly committed drama proved to be one of the most refreshingly individualistic films to come out of Hollywood in many a moon. The story follows brothers Toby (Chris Pine) and Tanner (Ben Foster), the former a law-abiding citizen who is getting over a bitter divorce, while the latter is a wildly unpredictable ex-con who has arrived back at the family farm after the death of their terminally ill mother. The two have taken on the deceased matriarch’s crushing debt, with a foreboding deadline that will soon see the bank take control of their property. What the bank doesn’t realise is that Toby and Tanner are the elusive criminals who are currently robbing their branches in the local areas, using that stolen money to stop the ruthless financial institution from ruining their family heritage. Hot on their heels are Texas rangers Marcus Hamilton (Jeff Bridges) and his native American partner Alberto Parker (Gil Birmingham) , who are dealing with their own interpretation of partnership and law enforcement. This is a film that does not have a single wasted moment. Every second of this mood-drenched tale is devoted to character and locale, building a world that may appear to reside in the 21st century, but is filled with the kind of history and authoritarian scorn of a time long since gone. British director David Mackenzie (Young Adam / Perfect Sense), in the same way Ted Kotcheff did with Wake In Fright, brings an ingenious, outsider’s point-of-view to a story that is unique to its setting, capturing the specific environment with a flavour that is both rugged and fragile. This would fit in nicely with classic parables helmed by veterans such as Anthony Mann, Robert Aldrich and Walter Hill. When you add a trenchant script by Taylor Sheridan (Sicario,Yellowstone), and heartfelt performances across the board (Bridges gives yet another Oscar worthy turn), HellOrHighWater is a movie to treasure.

RATING - ****½ Aaron Rouke

In Memory of

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

■ Angela Lansbury was an amazing lady. In 2016, I watched the Broadway Tony Awards on television and Angela strode onstage at the age of 90 during the ceremony with James Earl Jones on her arm and did a wonderful presentation.

Several years ago I was in awe of her as I sat in a Melbourne press conference and asked questions about her career.

I was about two metres from Angela and it was an honour to be in her presence.

I treasure the memory of seeing her onstage at The Comedy Theatre in DrivingMissDaisy.

Angela was a wealthy woman, sheid not act for the money, she did it because acting is what she loved doing.

Angela Brigid Lansbury was born in London in 1925.

She was the eldest of three children and her parents were the actress Moyna MacGill and politician Edgar Lansbury

Her father died when Angela was nine and during the war years her mother moved the family to the US where Angela studied acting in New York

In 1944 Angela was cast in the film Gaslight and signed to a seven year contract with the MGM studios

She was nominated for an Academy Award as Best Supporting Actress for her role in Gaslight and her next film was National Velvet where she starred opposite Mickey Rooney and Elizabeth Taylor.

Some of her notable films included ThePictureofDorianGrey(another Academy Award nomination), TheCourtJester,TheLongHot

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Whatever Happened To ... Angela Lansbury

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

Summer, The Manchurian Candidate and BedknobsandBroomsticks.

I asked her about making BlueHawaiiwith Elvis Presley and Angela told me that Elvis spent the whole time on the set between takes practising Karate and breaking bricks with his hands.

Angela played ‘Jessica Fletcher’in the very successful television series MurderSheWrote for 12 years.

She did not want to record the title song BeautyandtheBeastfor the Disney animated film but was talked into it.

Angela did it in one take and that is the version that won the Academy Award for Best Song in 1992 - I will never forget her performing it on the Academy Awards telecast.

Angela Lansbury has been married twice and had two children.

She was a second cousin to Prime Minister

Malcolm Turnbull

Her first trip to Australia was in 1959 when she played ‘Pearl’ in the film version of SummeroftheSeventeenthDoll.

Angela won four Tony Awards on Broadway where she starred in plays and musicals. Her greatest role was in the original production of Jerry Herman’s musical Mame

Angela never won an Oscar or a Primetime Emmy despite being nominated 18 times combined but in 2013 she was presented with an honorary Oscar.

In 2014 Angela was promoted to Dame Commander ofthe Order of the British Empire for services to drama and to charitable work and philanthropy.

She later said: "It is a very proud day for me to be recognised by the country of my birth and to meet the Queen under these circumstances is a rare and lovely occasion."

Weren’t we lucky to have had Angela Lansbury performing in a play in Melbourne? I could tell you the story about Philip Brady’s backstage visit and the mix up with Angela’s handbag, but we don’t have enough room.

I think there should be a book written about the famous stars who have performed at The ComedyTheatre in Melbourne and Angela Lansbury would be at the top of the list.

Angela La nsbury passed away at the age of 96 in 2022.

Kevin Trask

Kevin can be heard on 3AWThe Time Tunnel - Remember WhenSundays at 10.10pm with Simon Owens and Andrew McLaren. And on 96.5 FM

That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon. www.innerfm.org.au

LEGACY OF MAX MELDRUM AT TOWN HALL GALLERY

Australian Tonalism

Discover the artistic legacy of Max Meldrum (1876-1855) in this exhibition showcasing the lifelong dedication of John and Peter Perry to collecting works by this pioneering Australian artist and his influential school.

Meldrum, a key figure in 20th Century Australian art, revolutionised the painting scene between the two World Wars , creating a distinctive style that has left a lasting impact on the nation’s artistic landscape.

Also on display are fascinating studio artifacts, including plaster casts, palettes and photographs, offering a deeper insight into the artists creative process.

Exhibition closes July 26.

★ Impressions of Place – Melbourne and Victorian Artists Inc. is a community exhibition showcasing the creative talents of Boroondara based members of Melbourne and Victorian Artists Inc., an artist run association committed to supporting both emerging and practising artists from diverse backgrounds.

From intricate textile portraits of familiar faces to abstract paintings capturing fleeting moments of light, the artists’ practices span across a wide range of mediums including found object sculpture, photography and traditional oil painting.

Exhibition closes July 26.

Town Hall Gallery

360 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn

80th birthday

■ Now celebrating its 80th birthday. The Ferntree Gully Arts Society began in 1944 through the vision of local potter Alan Lowe and his wife Peg

The Lowes were passionate supporters of the arts, as well as visual art, appreciated acting, music and dance.

As many performances took place in the city, a long way from the Dandenongs foothills, the Lowes hosted parties and concerts for cityubased performers.

With so many events taking place, the Society needed a central venue to support and showcase creatives , and so The Hut was born.

The first exhibition which was held in 1944 in the Shire Hall, was to raise funds for the local Red Cross and fighting men.

The Hut had its humble beginnings as an army camo from Bacchus

The Arts

Marsh in 1947, the Society had decided to purchase modestly sized hut (60 by 18 feet) for the sum of £130.

To relocate the hut to its present site at Underwood Rd, took several days, and extra £18, and had to be transported in two parts.

Members of the Society all worked tirelessly in fitting and furnishing the building for use as a gallery and events space. This was all done voluntarily with a few extra helpers and generous donors.

The Hut was the original home of The Latimer Players, who became The Hut Repertory Players.

The Hut Players relocated to Lysterfield and now in Rose St, Upper Ferntree Gully, where they are still performing as the 1812 Theatre where they have named their main theatre after the Lowe family.

As film gradually superseded the popularity of theatre, the Ferntree Gully Film Society was created in 1956.

Like The Hut Players, this group was originally based at The Hut. In recent ears, the Film Society had to relocate to Europa Cinemas as The Hut was too small avenue for screening 35mm films.

Even so, the Film Society is still part of the Ferntree Gully Arts Society to this day.

Over time, the Society, with the support of the Knox City Council and others, has continued to extend and improve The Hut so it can continue to be a venue for creatives.

The gallery now has two exhibition spaces, complete with a profes-

sional lighting ad hanging system, ensuring the high quality delivery of exhibitions. There is also a studio and sculpture garden, which are available for the use of members and non-members.

The Hut Gallery

Ferntree Gully Arts Society

157 Underwood Rd.

Ferntree Gully

What next?

■ The Art Gallery of Ballarat advises that it is now closed for interior upgrades, and the re-opening is early 2026. The art gallery asks ‘What should we display next season?’

Phone 5320 5858

Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St, North Ballarat.

In July

July Exhibition: This is an open exhibition, open to anyone to enter.

Prints may be linocuts, etchings, drypoint, monoprints, silk screen etc. Drawings in pencils, charcoal, Ink, pen, pastel etc

Free entry, all welcome. www.thehutgallery.com.au info@thehutgallery.com.au

The Ferntree Gully Arts Society 157 Underwood Rd. Ferntree Gully

- Peter Kemp

Dino Fest at Wantirna South

■ Dino Fest, an interactive event for children aged nine and younger, will be held on June 2829 and July 5-20 at Nortons Park on Nortons Lane, Wantirna South.

The event includes a 45minute Dinosaur Encounter with walking dinosuars, a kids’ Dino Dig, arts and crafts, a ‘feel a fossil’ activity,a nd an exhibition of real dinosaur bones.

Promoters say there will be a Dino Trail with 30+ dinosaurs, including a life-size Tyrannosaurus Rex.

Cost: Adult $28, Child $26, Under 2 Years free. www.dinofest.com

■ Celebrity actress Liz Hurley celebrated her 60th birthday by releasing a most tasteful image of herself sitting starkers in a grassy field. Liz is currently in a relationship with Billy Ray Cyrus

Long way to the top

■ The results are finalised and the Whittlesea Bakery is this year's winner of the Best Sausage Roll in Australia. Do you want tomato sauce with your snag roll?

Potty prnaks

■ Two burglars have been found guilty of stealing a solid gold toilet seat once on display at Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Toilet was fully functional when pinched in 2019 but stripped of gold when discovered. Prior to theft the gold toilet was valued at $UK 4.75m. The thieves were each sentenced to four years behind bars.

Leave it to Beaver

■ You must remember the sitcom Leave it to Beaver'. Well, the original cast from the 50s got together for a two-day reunion in California early June. Jerry Mathers, the original Beaver, is now 77 and the sitcom is still streaming in the US.

To the High Court

■ Australia's most decorated soldier Ben Roberts-Smith has filed an appeal to the High Court to clear his name.

● ● ● ● Angela Lansbury

Birthday girl in birthday suit

with Peter Kemp

John O’Keefe

With John O’Keefe

● ● Liz Hurley

(Back load Specialist. Conditions apply)

24 HOURS7 DAYS A WEEK

(Scrap bin available)

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Across Observer

Lovatts Crossword No 16

Across Down Down

1. Promotion & advertising

6. Job path

11. Double bike

15. Messenger

20. Jump

21. Laughing scavenger

22. Labyrinth

23. Resumé, curriculum ...

25. Victory cup

26. Of sound mind, compos ...

27. Holy city

29. Letter

32. Forbidden activity (2-2)

34. Neither ... nor that

36. Careworn

39. Pre-Soviet emperors

41. Talks wildly

43. Roof overhangs

46. Lessens

48. More recent

49. Lion's neck hair

51. Stack

52. School principals

55. Love excessively, ... on

56. Louts

59. Awkward

61. Deities

62. Body fluid lump

63. Baby night bird

64. Anger, raise someone's ...

67. Favours

68. Shaggier

70. US coin

71. Odour

72. Perfume sampler

73. Lithe

74. Enthused

75. Red blood cell deficiency

77. Letter cross-stroke

78. Desires

79. Unmask

82. Lettuce side dishes

86. Widen (pupils)

87. Famous volcano

89. Illegal passengers

92. Former

94. African antelope

96. SE Arabian sultanate

98. Sets (table)

100. Smells strongly

101. Slightly open

103. 60s pop dance (2-2)

105. Become more active (3,2)

106. Symbolic picture

108. Brass instrument

111. Wordless play

112. White ants

114. Cannier

116. Citrus peel

119. German Mrs

120. Walkway

121. Non-com (1,1,1)

123. Was in debt to

124. Shrill bark

125. Name one by one

126. Vortex

127. Chair wheels

130. Came first

131. Wasted time

135. Record's secondary track (1-4)

138. Spoils

139. ... out a living

141. Countries' pennants

144. Economise, scrimp & ...

146. And so on

147. Infantryman, ... soldier

148. Crazy

149. Bread bun

150. Exercise club

151. Retained

152. Swallow up

153. The B of NB

155. Soviet Union (1,1,1,1)

157. Numerals system

158. Enclosure

160. Futuristic fiction (3-2)

161. Unsuitable

162. Ultra-virile

163. Which

165. Building block

166. Jug rim

167. ... Baba & The 40 Thieves

168. Mexican dip

169. Dispatch by post 171. Suspect's defence

172. Naval rank, chief ... officer

175. Rare pleasure

176. ... & hearty

179. Dried grape

180. Asian sauce bean

182. Knuckle of veal stew, ... bucco

184. Magazine subscriber 185. Cramped (space)

186. Perish 188. Sir ... Coward 189. Chest bone

190. Ancestry diagram, family ... 191. Wheel-shaft projection 193. On cloud ... 194. Swaggering walk

196. Fashion guru, Christian ... 197. Christmas carol, ... In A Manger 198. CDs, compact ...

200. Declare approval of 205. Olympic Games body (1,1,1)

207. King's title, Your ...

210. Resettlement

211. Bludgeoned

212. Pull heavily

213. Indian garment 214. Slimy substance

216. Red-rind cheese

218. Steer

219. Tibetan oxen

220. Employees

224. USA (5,3)

227. Snout

229. Abominable snowman

230. Antlered beast

231. Mutilates

232. Isolated

233. Towards interior of

235. Plentiful

237. Require

239. Wood-trimming tool

241. Of warships

244. Relaxation routine

246. Waffles

249. Child's guessing game (1,3)

252. Press down (4,2)

254. Toppled (over)

256. Group of six

258. Stuns

259. Sea rhythms

260. Foot arches

263. Queen's dog

264. Jogger

265. Ludicrous failure

267. Flowing away

270. Marmalade fruit

271. Spins

272. Mental stress

273. Leakage

274. Map book

277. Small car

279. Ready money

281. Circular

284. Ayes & ...

286. Security lapse

288. Rev counters

292. Measure of distance

294. Composer's work

295. Islands

298. Illumination

300. Orchestra section

301. Hymn, Ave ...

303. Hoisted (flag) (3,2)

306. Idolise

308. Engage (gears)

309. Lazily

311. Thug

314. Spanish friend

315. Salt, ... chloride

316. Conforming, ... the line

317. Without company

318. Filled pastries

319. Unruly children

320. Bug

321. Preaches

322. Phases

323. Electronic payment for goods

324. Tearing into strips

1. Cripple

2. Salesmen

3. Singer, ... Presley

4. Bury

5. Scottish valley

6. Short sleep

7. Kitchen garment

8. Uncovered

9. Corresponded in sound

10. Swiss lake

11. Most submissive

12. Convent

13. Utters

14. Pulped

15. Confines, ... in

16. Frill

17. Public profile

18. Festival

19. Street

24. Tennis ace, ... Lendl

28. Cries like crow

30. Ayatollah's land

31. Pace

33. Makes speech

35. Pressure line on map

37. Enlarge

38. Widespread

40. Wonkiest

42. Prickle

44. Single-celled organism

45. Respect

47. Donkeys

48. Proximity

49. Tiny fish

50. NSW industrial city

53. Tarmac surface

54. Bliss

57. New Zealand Rugby Union team (3,6)

58. Immersed

60. Into that place

63. Aperture

65. Regrettably

66. Eyelid inflammation

68. Group of cattle

69. Writer, ... Blyton

76. Stretchy tape

79. Smash into

80. Snake poison

81. Royal racecourse

83. Up & about

84. Grant

85. Watch covertly

88. Compass point

90. ... & ahs

91. Current units

93. Study of zodiac

95. Moist

97. Become beached, run ...

99. Music style, rock ... (3,4)

100. Sudden attack

102. Denim trousers

104. Yields, ... in

107. Prison rooms

109. Raise (livestock)

110. Region

111. Mongrel dog

113. Originate

115. Female calves

117. Tinted

118. Mirth

121. Journalists

122. Admitted guilt (5,2)

127. Undemanding (job)

128. Disjoin

129. Refits

132. Magician's chant

133. Bloodsucker

134. Military overthrow, coup ... (1'4)

135. Makes acquaintance of 136. Torvill or Dean (3-6)

137. Able

138. Organised for action

140. Communal bedroom 141. Burned unsteadily

142. Disbelievers

143. Portable weapons (5,4)

145. Closing tactics

151. Food-preparing room

154. Chilly

156. Remains

159. Also known as (1,1,1) 164. Afflict

169. Pancake topping, ... syrup

170. Aggravated

173. Lobe ornament

174. Cigar leaves

177. Ram star sign

178. Abrasive paper

181. Actor, Laurence ... 183. Substitute (5-2)

187. Listing down

192. Music colleges

195. Raise standard of 199. Treated badly (3-4)

201. Police informer

202. Debauched party

203. Delete

204. Milk coffee style, ... latte

206. Hi!

207. Intended

208. Model, ... Macpherson

209. Serving platter

213. Wiry-haired dog, ... terrier

215. Rich

217. Earth's satellite

221. Browned off (3,2)

222. Grind down

223. Polluted air

224. Expends, ... up

225. Terminate

226. Execute (law)

228. Entertainingly

234. Enlivening (7,2)

236. Mooches

238. Dine

240. Spot

242. Fan

243. Scotsman's pouch

245. Work clothes

247. Stupid

248. Concentrated scent

250. Autocue

251. Mounts

253. Actor, Robert De ...

255. Pigmented eye membrane

257. Great ages

258. Eagerly expectant

261. Higher in rank

262. Banishes

265. Girl

266. Actor, Will ...

268. Brazilian dance, ... nova

269. Affable

275. Filled tortilla

276. In present state (2,2)

278. Singer, ... Cole (3,4)

280. Side of sofa

282. Oh dear!

283. Starkers

285. Slight

287. Caresses with lips

289. Nuclear devices (1-5)

290. Distress signal

291. African disease fly

292. Small insects

293. Unknown author

296. Baby wrap

297. Long films

299. Phantom

302. Beatles drummer

304. Love

305. Plumbing trap pipe (1-4)

306. Heat up

307. Crowd sound

308. Sponges

310. Root vegetables

312. Cab

313. Phoned

By Rob Foenander

Sun Rise

■ Australian theatre sensation Zoy Frangos delivers a musical tribute to Elvis on Monday, July 14, at Hamer Hall. With Sun Rise, not only will he revisit the King’s great work but also pay homage to Sun Records and the pioneering African American artists who helped shape the revolutionary sound of rock 'n' roll, says his media release.

Morning light

■ Melbourne alt-rock band Fire Roots have released their debut EP Morning Light, blending punk energy with heartfelt melodies. Formed in 2021, the five-piece features members from Venezuela, Chile and Tasmania, adding rich cultural layers to their powerful sound.

Known for their dynamic live shows, Fire Roots delivers raw and passionate tracks. It is out now on all major streaming platforms. Follow them on IG and FB as @firerootsmusic

Home

■ Sage Marie is an up-and-coming indie pop folk artist making waves in the music scene with her captivating sound and heartfelt lyrics.

By producing her own music, Sage has unlocked numerous opportunities, including performing at Federation Square and a recent feature on local television.

The second track on her latest EP-History, is titled Home.

It’s a soulful, grounding song that celebrates acceptance, resilience, and the strength to move forward from the traumas of the past, she says. - Rob Foenander

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

New chapter for local libraries

■ The State Government is supporting lifelong learning across the state with Victorian libraries to share in more than $4 million for upgrades to community facilities as part of the 2024-25 Living Libraries Infrastructure Program. Nick Staikos, Minister for Local Government, visited Croydon Library to announce funding for the delivery of new or upgraded library infrastructure projects at 19 libraries across the state.

Croydon Library will receive $1 million towards a new build of a landmark facility that will include a black box theatre, multipurpose rooms and a community services co-working space.

Other projects to receive funding include:

■ major upgrades of libraries at Dandenong, Gisborne, Bulleen, Bayswater, Corryong and Thomastown

■ upgrades to community facilities in libraries in Bendigo, Morwell and Watsonia

■ outreach lockers and library kiosks in Ballarat and Birregurra

■ technology upgrades at Wodonga and Wellington libraries

■ improvements to libraries in Ararat, Mornington Peninsula and Nagambie to improve functionality and service delivery

■ modifications to support afterhours access at Horsham and West Wimmera libraries at their Goroke, Harrow, Kaniva and Edenhope branches.

The Living Libraries Infrastructure Program provides financial support for library facilities across Victoria by providing free access

Crossword Solution No 16

to information and technology, and creating spaces that foster community engagement.

The State Government has invested more than $53.3 million over the last ten years into 158 library infrastructure projects, supporting libraries in metropolitan, regional and rural Victoria, and

The next funding round will open later this year.

“This funding ensures that libraries will continue to play an important role in fostering lifelong learning, facilitating access to information and providing a safe and supportive community space for local people,” Mr Staikos said.

“We know that libraries are the heart of the communities they serve which is why we’re pleased to support these nineteen community spaces to build lasting change.”

Sonja Terpstra, North-eastern Metropolitan Region MLC, said: “Croydon Library offers a safe and inclusive space for everyone in our community and this landmark facility will provide a fantastic new space for lifelong learning and community engagement.”

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Service

Fitzroy

● ● ● ● Pete Smith and Jane Holmes

● Angela McGowan and Andrew Pante

● ● Brenda Mead and Gordon Bennett

● ● Beverley Pinder and Judy Green

Photos: Gordon Bennett

● ● Larry James and John Allan

● ● Denis O’Kane, Master of Ceremonies

● ● ● Jeff Joseph and Bill Duff

● Ash Long and Heidi Victoria

● ● ● ● Gavin Wood

SMART YOUNGSTERS LINE UP FOR GOLDEN ROSE

■ Some smart youngsters could be facing up in the running of the Golden Rose come September 27 at Rosehill over 1400 metres.

In opening markets bookies have the Hawkes trained Nepotism up as favourite.

Until April he had won two races in good style in Sydney

He is by the young sire, Brutal, who showed plenty on the track when he went around.

A most interesting possible entrant could be Beadman, named after the great jockey of recent years.

Darren Beadman took all before him and was one of the most polished riders that rode many of the main race winners including Melbourne Cups

The colt is by the great sire Snitzel, and in winning the Ken Russell Memorial on the Gold Coast it was a win you couldn’t have faulted.

Unfortunately, Snitzel passed away recently.

Beadman bolted in and is in the care of leading Sydney trainer Peter Snowden, winning by seven lengths. He is smart.

Next, we have the well-bred youngster in Wodeton, prepared by another leading trainer in Chris Waller.

He is by the imported sire, Wootton Bassett, out of Fiera Vista.

He is smarton his day, and was a reasonable fourth in the same race as Beadman, but would have to improve.

Tenyris, the galloper prepared by the Freedman team here in Victoria, won well back March when he won the Todman Stakes after an unlucky run in the Blue Diamond at Caulfield

He is smart on his day and could go close if they decide to have a crack at the big-bickies here.

Another Victorian that fires up well is Vin Rock, an impressive winner of the Inglis Sires at Randwick going back to April 5.

With Mark Zahra steering the ship for the Freedman camp, hewas most impressive in winning the big event and looked classy.

The stable and punters are all in agreement he has got ability, and should go well here if they run him.

Next, we have the Golden Slipper winner, Marhoona, who won the big one in good style back in March, but things have gone a bit quiet.

She is by a leading sire and trained by Michael Freedman in Sydney, and is smart.

A very nice type is Rivellino, by leading young sire, Too Darn Hot, who made it two from two, the colt winning well at both runs.

He is in the smart stable of Kris Lees, one of the best in the business, and the colt should be hard to beat.

Then there is the smart colt, Devil Night, in the strong Hawkes camp, who won the Blue Diamond Stakes in great fashion back on February 22.

The Hawkes camp is confident every time he steps out, so he could be hard to toss here.

Then we move on to State Visit, prepared by one of the best in the business, Victorian trainer Ciaron Maher.

Back on April 19 at Randwick he struck trouble, finishing an unlucky fourth behind the favourite here, in Nepotism

Could be hard to beat.

Last, but not least, the good type Tempted, prepared by James Cummings who won the Percy Sykes stakes back on April 19 at Randwick in good fashion.

Ted Ryan

Another blue blood

■ The Yulong Stud is over the moon announcing the arrival of impeccably bred stallion, First Settler, the Group 2-winning son of champion

sire, Written Tycoon. He will join the Stallion

Roster for the 2025 Breeding Season.

A natural talent with blistering speed and genuine toughness.

First Settler stamped himself as one of the exciting sprinters of his generation across his two-and three-year-old campaigns.

Unbeaten as a juvenile, he scored dominant back-to-back 1000 metre victories in the two-year-old Handicap at Caulfield, and the Russell Dawson 2YO Plate at Flemington

Trained by Mick Price and Michael Kent Junior , he returned at three to claim a thrilling win in the Group 2 Danehill Stakes storming home from last to first to win in a dazzling finish.

Co-trainer Michael Kent Junior praised First Settler as “a very good straight horse, a good masculine sprinting colt”, noting his affinity with the Flemington Straight, where he recorded two wins and a second from his three

starts. First Settler boast a pedigree rich in Group 1 performers by our own champion sire in Written Tycoon, whose 76 individual stakes winners onthe Honour Roll,includes two Golden Slipper winners in Capitalist and Lady of Camelot, Blue Diamond victor, Written By, and a further 14 Group One winners.

He was the first sire since Redoute’s Choice and Danehill in the last 25 years to sire two colts to win the two richest Group One twoyear-old features in Australia, and is the only current active sire to do so.

First Settler is out of Graciousness(Street Cry), a talented mare who of Australia’s won over a mile and descends from one of Australia’s families, as a daughter of the Blue Hen Lady Capel (Last Tycoon).

She was the dam of Group One Chipping Norton Stakes winner and proven sire, Casino Prince.

She also produced Chateau Cheval(High Chaparral), a three-time winner and dam of Best Bordeaux, a dual Group -winning 2yo, who now stands at Coolmore Stud Graciousness has already produced stakeswinning filly, Vienna Princess (Snitzel) winner of the listed Twilight Glow Stakes and the $1 million Silver Eagle. The son of Written Tycoon is an imposing individual.

He was a standout at the 2023 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sales, where he sold for $750,000 to Yulong and Mick Price.

Yulong’s Chief Operating Officer, Sam Fairgray, echoed those sentiments stating: “First Settler was a big, strong, forward colt with a great temperament from day one”. He is by a champion sire, out of a fast Street Cry Mare, and from a family full of Group One Performers.

On the track, he had blistering speed and toughness, and he’s exactly the type of athletic precocious horse that breeders love. Ted Ryan

● ● James Cummings. Racing Photos.

Chris Waller. Racing Photos.

Classifieds 9489 2222

Classified Information

DISPLAY CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Paid display advertising is available for $20 per column centimetre. Sample prices: Full-Page Ad (37cm h x 8 cols w), $5920. Half-Page Ad (18cm h x 8 cols w), $2880. Quarter-Page Ad (18cm h x 4 cols w), $1440. All ads are pre-paid at time of booking. Pre-pay by Card: Visa, Mastercard, American Express. Pre-pay by EFT to 033091 260131 (Local Media Pty Ltd, Westpac, Eltham).

LINE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Paid line advertising is available for $20 for first 20 words, then $1 per word thereafter. All ads are prepaid at time of booking. Pre-pay by Card: Visa, Mastercard, American Express. Pre-pay by EFT to 033091 260131 (Local Media Pty Ltd, Westpac, Eltham).

STATEWIDE, MELBOURNEWIDE

Classified Ads are read across Victoria, included in all online (digital) editions of The Local Paper and Melbourne Observer. Fresh online editions are published weekly on Wednesdays, February-December (with exception of Easter Wednesday). You can have Digital Editions emailed free to you - register at www.FreePaper.com.au Print editions are published fortnightly on Wednesdays, February-December.

ONLINE EDITION DATES - 2025

Go directly to www.LocalPaper.com.au or www.MelbourneObserver.com.au to read digital editions (exact replicas of print editions), free. Online edition dates in 2025 are: Feb. 5, Feb. 12, Feb. 19, Feb. 26, Mar. 5, Mar. 12, Mar. 19, Mar. 26, Apr. 2, Apr. 9, Apr. 16, Apr. 30, May 7, May 14, May 21, May 28, Jun. 4, Jun. 11, Jun. 28, Jun. 25, Jul. 2, Jul. 9, Jul. 16, Jul. 23, Jul., 30, Aug. 6, Aug. 13, Aug. 10, Aug. 27, Sep. 3, Sep. 10, Sep. 17, Sep. 24, Oct. 1, Oct. 8, Oct. 15, Oct. 22, Oct. 29, Nov. 5, Nov. 12, Nov. 19, Nov. 26, Dec. 3, Dec. 10. Lodge ads by 4pm Friday prior to publication.

PRINT EDITION DATES - 2025

‘Hard copies’ available free through a network of outlets across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and selected country areas. Print edition dates in 2025 are: Feb. 5, Feb. 19, Mar. 5, Mar. 19, Apr. 2, Apr. 16, Apr. 30, May 14, May 28, Jun. 11, Jun. 25, Jul. 9, Jul. 23, Aug. 6, Aug. 20, Sep. 3, Sep. 17, Oct. 1, Oct. 15, Oct. 29, Nov. 12, Nov. 26, Dec. 10. Lodge your ads by 4pm Friday prior to publication.

PRINT EDITION AREAS

Eastern Suburbs Edition. Boroondara (north), Knox-Sherbrooke, Manningham, Maroondah, Monash, Whitehorse. Lilydale and Yarra Valley Edition. Healesville, Lilydale, Mount Evelyn, Warburton. Mitchell Strathbogie Edition. Avenel, Beveridge, Broadford, Euroa, Kilmore, Nagambie, Seymour, Wallan, Wandong-Heathcote Junction. North-West Edition. Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Hume, Maribyrnong, Melton, Merri-bek, Moonee Valley. Moorabool, Wyndham Northern Suburbs Edition. Banyule, Darebin (north - Preston-Reservoir), Darebin (southNorthcote, Thornbury), Nillumbik (urban), Whittlesea (urban). Regional Edition. Mansfield, Murrindindi (Alexandra, Kinglake, Yea), Nilllumbik (rural), Whittlesea (rural). Southern Cross Weekly Edition. Bayside, Boroondara (south), Glen Eira, Kingston, Melbourne, Port Phillip, Stonnington, Yarra. South-East. Cardinia, Casey, Frankston, Greater Dandenong, Mornington Peninsula.

FREE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Free non-commercial classified advertising is available for individual readers, selling iitems. Your ad can be up to 40 words. This service is available at the sole discretion of the Editor. Ads will appear for up to 4 weeks. Free ads are not available to businesses or organisations. Deadline: 4pm Fridays prior to Print Edition. You can lodge your Free Ad by:

• WEB: www.AdvertiseFree.com.au

• EMAIL: editor@LocalPaper.com.au

• POST: Mail the form (available in this newspaper) to PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095. Free Ads will not be accepted by phone.

SOME ADVERTISING RULES

• All car advertisers must supply registration or Vehicle Identification Numbers. By law, we are unable to publish listings without those details.

• Any person or business advertising to sell or give away a dog, cat, puppy or kitten in Victoria must be enrolled on the Pet Exchange Register to obtain a source number, and must include this source number along with each animal's microchip number in all advertisements.

• Advertisers should be honest in their dealings. Claims should be true, accurate and based on reasonable grounds.

FREE non-commercial classified advertising is available for individual readers, selling iitems. Your ad can be up to 40 words. This service is available at the sole discretion of the Editor. Ads will appear for up to 4 weeks. Free ads are not available to businesses or organisations. Deadline: 4pm Fridays prior to Print Edition. You can lodge your Free Ad by: • WEB: www.Advertise Free.com.au

• EMAIL: editor@Local Paper.com.au

• POST: Mail the form (available in this newspaper) to PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095. Free Ads will not be accepted by phone.

ANTIQUE DRSSING TABLE. 3 mirrors, size: wdith 1.23m, depth 55cm, height 1.82m. Delivery arranged. VGC. $250. Coburg. 0428 130 049. Z-CC

BAR STOOLS. x2. $2 0 each. Whittlesea. 0494 380 264. Z-CC

BED. Single. Electric folable with massage and remote control. Adjustable back, legs and height. New Aspire mattress. German motor. EC. $500. Diamond Creek. 0401 473 565.N-Q

BED HEAD. Wooden. And base. With slats. As new. $80. Whittlesea. 0494 380 264. Z-CC

BIKE. Ladies. Make: Friction Huffey. Purple. Plus helmet, basket and pump. VGC. $110. Pakenham. 5940 5018. R-U

BIRD CAGE. Green. 52cm square. as new. $40. Whittlesea. 0494 380 264. Z-CC

BOAT. Savage 12’. 15HP Johnson OB. Trailer. All Safety EQ. Bow canopy. Storm cover. VGC. $1800. Alexandra. 0419 329 264. Z-CC

BOAT. Aluminium. 3.8 motor. Evenrude motor. 6HP . Free winch and trailer and accessories. GC. $1000. Wandong. 0418 399 261. R-U

BRICKS. 100 clean, red. Plus halves. $50. Keon Park. 9469 4558.N-Q

BUILDER’S Electrical Pole, steel box and timber pole. GC. Free. Murrindindi. 0418 564 174. R-U

CAMPER TRAILER. Tru Blu heavy duty all terrain 12V accessory outlet plus slide out kitchen and extras. VGC. $4300. Frakston. 9789 9634. Z-CC

CANE BASKETS. Two, Large. GC. $30. Keon Park. 9469 4558. N-Q

CANE CHAIRS. Two, Cush- ions. $50. Keon Park. 9469 4558. N-Q

SELLERS can have a free 40-word ‘For Sale’ ad - plus a single colour photo - in The Local Paper Classifieds to sell their items. Your free ad will appear in all editions of The Local Paper, covering all suburbs of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula, and selected Victorian country areas. Your free ad will

CARAVAN. E20½ ft reegal 2009 Aussie Tourer Caravan. Full ensuite with separate shower, queen bed and AC/heater, TV, stereo, gas cooktop, microwave, comes with cover and large outdoor mat. EC. $32,000. Taggerty. 0438 782 112. R-U

CARAVAN. 21’6” 2014 Crusader. Reg till Feb. 2026. Full ensuite, separate shower/toilet, queen bed, a/c heater, TV radio, Gas/Elec. cooktop, micro washing machine, solar panel, large fridge, freezer, new tyres and batteries. many extras. EC. $40,000 ONO. Mount Eliza. 0429 877 964. Z-CC

CIRCULATION STIMULATOR. Clare. VGC. $20. Frankston. 9789 9634 Z-CC

COLLECTORS Melway Nos 9, 20, 33. Wax matches (234) in book, 17 loose. VFL Records, finals, mainly Richmond. Small and large. Phone cards. Vatious prices. Box Hill South., 9890 7904.N-Q

CRIME FICTION

BOOKS. Various authors. Harlen Coben, James Patterson plus others. GC. $2, or 3 for $5. Mill Park. 052 665 276. H-O

DOG KENNEL. Plastic. Grey colour. Very clean. never used as kennel. GC. $10. Purchaser to collect. Doreen. 9717 3465. N-Q

EDISON STANDARD PHONOGRAM Serial Nuimber 638427. October 1905 with five Edison goldmoulded records complete with reproducing trumpet model C. Rare antqiue, working well. VGC. $1850. Glen Iris. 0407 276 973. Z-CC

ENCYCLOPEDIA. Complete set A-Z. GC. $50. Frankston. 9789 9634. Z-CC

FOLDING BIKE. Suit adult. Everything works. Gears. GC. $120. Seymour. 0419 881 573. R-U

FORD AUII Fairport V8 Sedan. Original.Runs well. No rust. Good tyres, new screen, bring your mechanic or RACV test, RWC. Reg 7/27. 2AN3XE. VCG. $8000. Seymour. 0419 881 573. N-Q

GARDEN ROCKS. Approx. 200mm-150mm for landscaping. Approx. 260. Free. Nunawading, 0407 696 343. N-Q

GARDEN ROCKS. Small and medium. All sizes. All free. Also 12 blue stone pitches. All free. Bulleen. 9850 5128. N-Q

HORSE RUG. Tartan. Never used. VGC. $65. Macleod. 9459 6714. R-U

INVERTER-GENERATOR. 2200-watt. 91 octane 4-stroke petrol motor, single phase, 240 volts, 50 hertz output, little used. GC. $95. Doreen. 9717 3465. R-U

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

The Local Paper Email: editor@LocalPaper. com.au Postal: PO Box 1278, Research, 3095 BOOKING AND COPY DEADLINE: 5pm Fridays, prior to Wednesday issue. CLASSIFIED ADS Classified ads are available each week in The Local Paper, which is published on Wednesdays, February-December (with the exception of Easter Wednesday). All Classified Ads appear in the print and online editions. It is important to check your advertisement is correct on the first day it appears. While every care is taken to ensure your advertisement is correct, errors can occur. If this happens to your ad please contact us the first day your advertisement appears and we will be happy to correct it as soon as we can.

LAURA ASHLEY Cotton Queen Coverlet set. Size 220cm x 240cm, plus 2 pillowcases. Pale blue with thin white stripes. Never used. EC. $30. Ashburton. 9885 2203. Z-CC

MAGAZINES. Collectors. New Idea, Woman’s Day, Stellar, Body and Soul, House magazine and many others. GC. Price negotiable. West Preston. 0416 576 660. R-U

MAGAZINES. Purnells History of WWII, Australian Geographic, Choice, Burke’s Backyard, Organic Gardener, Gardening Australia, Vegi Patch and some odd ones. GC. 50c each. Reservoir. 0421 131 681. Z-CC

MOBILITY SCOOTER.

Pre-owned. Sill under warranty with new batteries. Features headlights and tail lights, swivel seat, rear shopping bag, includes key and charger. max user 136kg, 35km range per cahrge. Free delivery. VGC. $1295. Moorabbin. 0401 980 969. R-U

17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 37, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,. 47, 48, 49, 51, 52. GC. $3. Mill Park. 0452 665 276. H-O

RIDE-ON Deutscher 280 Honda motor, runs fine, seal on shaft leaks, heaps of parts including new seat, new cutting plate, body part dismantled, everything is there. GC. $800. Yarck.

450mm. new, never been used as too small for subject. Foldable and extremely light for easy transport. Well made, Top of

PARTS for Ford AUIIV8. Secondhand. Struts. New parts: ball joints, 2 boxes of parts. VGC. $1000. Seymour 0419 881 573. N-Q

PICTURE FRAMES. 40 large to small. Various styles. VGC. All only $70. Keon Park. 9469 4558. N-Q

PLUMBING FITTINGS. 1 box PVC 100m Sew/SW, Elbows 45°. As new. $35. Z-CC

SHEEP. 60 mixed breed ewes, been running with rams, have ear tags. Friendly, great lawnmowers, saves mowing the paddocks and helps reduce fire risk. Can deliver. GC. $130. Deanside. 0426 397 741N-Q

WOOD FIRE STOVE HEATER. Ozpig Traveller. Used twice. Comes with grill and hot plate, lifting handle, carry bag. heaps ofready cut fire lighters. Heavy duty grate and 45 quart camp oven. VGC. $3000. Montmorency. 0483 881 609. R-U

Z-CC

TABLE. Large solid timber, dining room table, 2100mm x 1000mm. Plus six chairs. GC. $30. Yea. 0419 109 887. N-Q

TABLE. Round. Polished timber. 100cm diameter. Seats 4. VGC. $90. Mill Park. 9436 8935. N-Q

TRAIN BOOKS. Wide variety of books and pamphlets to all types of trains. All prices negotiable. Research. 9437 1253. N-Q

TYRE CHANGERS. Manual. Little used, complete with instructions, purchaser to collect. GC. $90. Doreen. 9717 3465 N-Q

WALKERS. Two. One new, hardly used, $120. Second one: GC but some small marks. $80. Seymour. 0419 881 573. R-U 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 3465 Z-CC

Electric.

WHEELCHAIR.

WHEELCHAIR. Manual. Evoke 2 Aspire

the range. EC. $600. Diamond Creek. 0401 473 565.N-Q

PUBLIC NOTICES

GOD’S CHURCH invites faithful followwees of Christ to attend the New Testament local Passover night service. Alfredton, Ballarat. To secure your seat, 0419 327 366. N-P

WINDOW. Aluminium. 1600mm x 1600mm with windout window. GC. Free. Murrindindi. 0418 564 174. R-U

WHEELCHAIR.

WOOD HEATER. Cast iron. GC. $500. Seymour. 0422 204 977.

WORKSHOP MANUALS. Holden VR Commodore. Vol 8, 4 and 5,. $220. Kangaroo Groundf. 9712 0337. Z-CC

REAR SPOILER for VE Holden Commodore Sedan. EC. Best Offer. Mornington. 5975 3609. Z-CC

HEDGE TRIMMER. Honda. HHH25D. 4 stroke. With hour meter fitted. VGC. Bought in Feb. 2022. Has done 20.8 hours. $650 ONO. Pearcedale. 0418 457 588. Z-CC

WHEELS IN VICTORIA Rare 528 page volume, registered 1518 by Harold H. Paynting. History of Wheelecd Transport 1824 to 1984, mint condition in hard cover sleeve. EC. $400. Glen Iris. 0407 276 973. Z-CC

Classifieds

REQUEST FOR COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE

Relates to a Hit run collision on the Melba Hwy, Glenburn, about 9.40 am on June 10, 2025.

An unknown white van, similar to a 4.5T delivery van has collided with snow group tour bus.

The van was travelling toward Yarra Glen and failed to stop after the collision. Minor injuries were received to a number of passengers in the minibus.

Any information to Leading Senior Constable MCCORMICK at the Yarra Ranges Highway Patrol, 6-10 Albert Hill Road Lilydale 3140 Ph: 9739 2402

Notice is hereby given that South Pacific St Kilda Pty Ltd has applied to lease, pursuant to Section 134 of the Land Act 1958, for a term of up to 41 years, Crown allotment 102C, Parish of Melbourne North at St Kilda, as a site for i) Health and Fitness Centre incorporating heated sea baths, swimming pool, saunas, steam baths, gymnasiums, health and beauty therapy centre, sports medicine centre, multi-purpose activity rooms which includes the sale and disposal of liquor for consumption in that area; recreational and entertainment uses and drinking and/or eating areas (including liquor), restaurants, cafés and take-away food facilities, entertainment; tourist, beach and health related retailing; and administrative and maintenance facilities and other special events and related activities; and, ii) Any other use or development permitted under Consent Notice (Amendment L18), Specified Area No 1 incorporated into the St Kilda Planning Scheme as amended from time to time.

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION DETAILS

Application reference number: P25/0803

Applicant name:

NEPEAN PLANNING CONSULTANTS

The Land affected by this application is located at: 1 MARVIN AVENUE RYE

Lot 32 on Plan of Subdivision 030579 VOL 10852 FOL 565

The application is for a permit to: VARY RESTRICTIVE COVENANT CREATED IN TRANSFER NO. A208723 AFFECTING CERTIFICATE OF TITLE VOLUME 10852 FOLIO 565 BY VARYING THE RESTRICTION WORDING FROM: “ANY BUILDING WHICH SHALL NOT BE SET BACK AT LEAST FORTY FEET FROM THE STREET ALIGNMENT OF SUCH LAND” TO: “ANY BUILDING WHICH SHALL NOT BE SET BACK AT LEAST 7.5 METRES FROM THE FRONT TITLE BOUNDARY”

A permit is required under the following clauses of the planning scheme:

PLANNING SCHEME CLAUSE

Clause 52.02 (Easements, Restrictions and Reserves)

MATTER FOR WHICH A PERMIT IS REQUIRED

Under section 23 of the Subdivision Act 1988, to vary a restriction.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 9 JULY 2025

How can I find out more?

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application free of charge at: www.mornpen.vic.gov.au

You may also call (03) 5950 1010 to arrange a time to look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council. This can be done during office hours and is free of charge.

Privacy Notification: The personal information provided in an objection is collected for planning purposes in accordance with the Planning & Environment Act 1987 (the Act). The public may view an objection in accordance with Section 57 of the Act whilst the planning application is current

ROOFTOP MOBILE PHONE

STATION AT 503 ORRONG ROAD, ARMADALE VIC 3143 RFNSA Site No: 3143022

1. Waveconn is proposing to install a new rooftop telecommunications facility at 503 Orrong Road, Armadale. The new facility will be utilised by TPG/Vodafone, Optus and Telstra and will replace an existing base station at 291-295 Dandenong Road, Prahran.

2. In summary, this new rooftop facility will consist of:

➢ New panel antennas for TPG/Vodafone, Optus and Telstra (21 antennas in total, each less than 2.8m in length)

➢ Four equipment cabinets

➢ Shrouding of the facility on all four sides

➢ Ancillary works and equipment necessary for the installation, operation and maintenance of the facility

3. In accordance with Section 6 of the Industry Code C564:2025 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment, we invite you to make comments about the proposal.

4. Please direct comments to Mark Baade (Planning Consultant), SAQ Consulting on mark@saqconsulting.com.au, 0417 088 000 or P O Box 50 CLAYFIELD QLD 4011 by Friday 11th July 2025.

For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visit www.rfnsa.com.au/3143022

LOST - Stolen from MCC Bowls Club, Hawthorn. White 2-door manual Honda Prelude. Much loved vehicle. ENI318. Reward when found. 9191 0099. Z