The Local Paper. Mitchell Strathbogie Edition. Wed., Sep. 24, 2025

MITCHELL COUNCIL TURNS ON CHARM

● Cr John Dougall, Mayor

■ Mitchell Shire Council has launched a charm offensive, thanking the State Government for funds for road improvements.

“A range of key road safety projects across Mitchell Shire will be delivered thanks to funding from the Victorian Government’s Safe Local Roads and Streets Program,” said a media release issued on Friday (Sep. 19).

Mitchell Shire Mayor Cr John Dougall said said the funding would make a tangible difference to safety for all road users.

“Improving safety on our local roads is a priority for Council and our community. These upgrades are about reducing risk, preventing crashes and saving lives,” Cr Dougall said.

“The Safe Local Roads and Streets Program recognises that local governments face significant challenges in delivering road safety improvements.”

Ongoing works in Mitchell Shire include:

■ Lithgow St, Beveridge: Installation of a raised pedestrian crossing. This is also being completed alongside additional works to add a roundabout to the Patterson Rd intersection.

■ Windham Street, Wallan: Raised pedestrian crossing and speed limit reduction.

Upcoming works include:

■ Chittick Place, Seymour: Closure of access to Chittick Place from Oak St and Anzac Avenue by extension of the kerb and footpath.

Raised pedestrian priority crossings at:

■ Rail St, Wandong

■ Wallis St and Station St, Seymour

■ Pollard St, Seymour

■ Powlett St, Broadford

MEETING CALLED AFTER FREEWAY DEATHS

■ Following Hume Fwy deaths, residents attended a hall meeting in Hurstbridge last Monday (Sep. 15) to discuss their concerns about the growing local wildlife road toll and the risks this poses to people.

This follows the tragic deaths of Sarla Khadka and Areeza Suwal who were struck and killed in Craigieburn while assisting an injured kangaroo.

Residents honoured them for their compassion, with candles and a minute’s silence.

“In Nillumbik, kangaroos, wombats, possums and birds are most commonly impacted by drivers, with the vulnerable Brush-tailed Phascogale also becoming victims,” said mel Nelson, President of community group, Roads and Roadside Ecology

She explained the many issues to the large crowd before they broke off into smaller groups to discuss changes needed from drivers, Nillumbik Council and the State Government to reduce the rising road toll.

Residents expressed concern that wombats may become regionally extinct due to the number being killed on roads. They also expressed dismay at drivers of utes and 4WDs with bull bars who deliberately hit and run wildlife.

Local wildlife rescuer, Leonie Sorrentino, explained that she and her fellow rescuers regularly face dangerous motorist behaviour when helping injured wildlife, even when police are attending.

“That could have been us in Craigieburn,” Ms Sorrentino said.

Photo: Mel Nelson

The Local Paper

Local Briefs

Netball courts

■ Works will soon begin on the Harley Hammond Reserve Netball Courts and Lighting Upgrade, marking the start of a project that will transform the reserve into a modern sporting and recreation hub for the Broadford community.

The upgrade, which begins Monday (Sep. 29), will deliver two state-of-the-art netball courts with competition compliant lighting, supporting Broadford’s growing netball community, including the Broadford Football Netball Club, Broadford Junior Football Netball Club, and Broadford Netball Club.

The project will provide safe, high-quality facilities that cater to players of all ages and skill levels.

During construction, there will be partial closures of footpaths next to the courts on Powlett St and Gavan St. Pedestrians are encouraged to follow all directional signage and use alternate routes where indicated to ensure safety.

A new play space will also be constructed adjacent to the netball courts early next year through a separate procurement process, offering expanded recreational opportunities for local families.

All works are expected to be completed by the end of April 2026.

Planning scheme

■ Murrindindi Council is due to tonight (Wed.) vote on planning scheme amendments.

“Council is required to review the Planning Scheme every four years; recommendations of the review then need to be implemented via a planning scheme amendment or amendments,” says a report to Councilllors.

“The most recent review of the Murrindindi Planning Scheme was completed in 2023.”

“This amendment is ‘policy neutral’ in that it addresses those recommendations of the Review that are administrative in nature and where the intended effect of the respective clause is not changed,” the report said.

At Greenvale Lane

■ Mansfield Council is seeking community feedback on designs for a potential new shared path and footbridge along Grenvale Lane. It is is an important 80-km/h road that forms part of the Mansfield Heavy Vehicle Alternative Route. Currently, the existing vehicle bridge over Ford Creek has no provision for pedestrians.

Bless Them All

● ● The Blessing of the Fleet at the Kangaroo Ground Operations Centre.

■ Kangaroo Ground Emergency Operations Centre, Nillumbik, hosted the Blessing of the Fleet on Thursday night (Sep. 18), bringing together volunteers, local leaders and the community to recognise the essential work of Country Fire Authority brigades.

Nillumbik Mayor Cr John Dumaresq welcomed representatives from all 15 local brigades and two groups, acknowledging the outstanding service and dedication of CFA volunteers who play a crucial role in protecting the community.

Rev. Mohit Sampson, CFA District 14 Chaplain, led readings and prayers, followed by Lt Chris Fidler of the Kangaroo Ground CFA Brigade reciting the Firefighter’sPrayer.

The CFA trucks were officially blessed as part of the ceremony, symbolising the readiness and resilience of Nillumbik’s CFA

Cr Dumaresq highlighted the unique landscape of Nillumbik, surrounded by bushland and natural beauty, and the associated bushfire risks.

He reiterated Nillumbik Council’s commitment to working alongside emergency services, including the upcoming Community Bushfire Expo on Sunday, October 5, an opportunity for the community to get their fire plans in order and to share those plans with neighbours and family.

“The CFA’s expertise and leadership are essential,” Cr Dumaresq said.

“May your fleet be protected and may we continue working together to keep our community safe,” he said.

Nillumbik Council provided the brigades and groups with a total financial contribution of $49,000 for their ongoing service to the community.

Recipients were:

■ Arthurs Creek Fire Brigade – Firefighter Sue Apted

■ Christmas Hills Fire Brigade – Lt Stuart Lawson

■ Diamond Creek Fire Brigade – Captain Noel Farmer

■ Doreen Fire Brigade – Captain Matt Stoneham

■ Eltham Fire Brigade – Captain Steve Riley

■ Hurstbridge Fire Brigade – Lt Darren King

■ Kangaroo Ground Fire Brigade – Lt Chris Fidler

■ Kinglake Fire Brigade – Captain Paul Buck

■ North Warrandyte Fire Brigade – Captain Trent Burriss

■ Panton Hill Fire Brigade – Captain Simon Wallace

■ Plenty Fire Brigade – Captain David Rumble

■ Research Fire Brigade – Captain Neville Stewart

■ St Andrews Fire Brigade – Captain Richard Lee-Porcher

■ Wattle Glen Fire Brigade – Captain Tyson Prenc

■ Yarrambat Fire Brigade – Alex Daio accepted for the Captain

■ Whittlesea/Diamond Valley Group – Deputy Group Officer Heather Scale

■ Nillumbik Group – Deputy Group Officer Alistair Frost

$14m drug bust

■ Detectives from the Major Drug Squad have charged two men and seized 40kg of cocaine which was located inside a vehicle being driven back from the NSW border.

A vehicle was intercepted by police on the Hume Hwy in Kalkallo at 6.20am on Tuesday morning (Sep. 16).

A search of the vehicle uncovered 40kg of a substance believed to be cocaine inside the vehicle. The cocaine has an estimated street value of $14m.

The two men in the car, a 19-year-old from Noble Park and a 20-year-old from Hampton Park, were both charged with traffick large commercial quantity of cocaine and possess large commercial quantity of cocaine.

They were remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court

Police will allege those involved were utilising vehicles to transport illicit drugs interstate on behalf of the wider syndicate.

Detective Inspector Jamie Walker, Major Drug Squad, said: “Illicit drugs are destructive to so many individuals and the communities around them.”

Dog adoptions

■ A special offer at the wat djerring Animal Facility is designed to ensure every dog has its day.

For a limited time, dogs and puppies can be adopted from the wat djerring Animal Facility for half the usual cost, making it easier than ever to give a loving home to a four-legged friend in need.

The reduced price is not the only benefit of adopting from the animal facility, where all pets are health-checked, vaccinated, microchipped and desexed to ensure a smooth transition into their new environment.

Located at 20 Companion Place in Epping, the wat djerring Animal Facility provides a caring environment while pets find their “furever home”.

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

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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)

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Editor: Ash Long

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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

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Boost for Diamond Valley sport Ash on Wednesday

■ Eltham MLA Vicki Ward has highlighted State Government budget allocations for local sports groups.

“We have got a new scoreboard for Research Park, supporting the Research Junior Football Club and the Research Eltham Collegians Cricket Club,” Ms Ward said.

“These are terrific clubs with a great history.

“When it comes to the RJFC , I should know – my parents are life members and I was once a boundary umpire.

“Having modern scoreboards will continue the great work that has been done over the last few years to support and strengthen Research clubs, such as works to the oval and particularly the pavilion extension and improvements that we have invested in along with Nillumbik Shire Council

“These beautiful clubrooms, including a great social area with some of the best views around, are very important to a small community like Research, a community I grew up in, which needs local gathering places –they need a bit of a hub – which is exactly what this pavilion delivers.

“With your indulgence, I want to congratulate the Under12 girls from Research for their premiership win, and the Under15 boys.

“And I want to give a shout-out to Bailey for playing his 100th game during the grand final.

“Congratulations also to Research Under-18 girls on their grand final game against Yarrambat

“While they were not winners on the day, they have had a fantastic season, only losing one game – and

Long Shots

of course, some grudging congratulations to Yarrambat. I am sure the member is very happy to see her team win.

“And heartfelt congratulations to my niece Lilly, who plays for Yarrambat and who was awarded best on ground.

“I also want to recognise the fantastic season of the Lower Plenty Bears women’s senior team in taking out the grand final, with Research junior footy club being an important feeder team.

“Lower Plenty is stronger thanks to this involvement, and as somebody who was not allowed to play footy at Research because I was a girl, many years ago, the success of girls and women’s teams at this club is especially meaningful for me.

“This budget also delivered funding for a master plan to redevelop the clubrooms at Diamond Creek.”

Applause

■ Diamond Valley College’s prodruction of Cinderellahas won praise from Eltham MLA Vicki Ward.

Oct. 1. Deadline for advertising bookings and content is 4pm Thursday, Sep. 25. 1800 231 311.

The Local Paper

In association with the Established September 14, 1969 Online weekly. Print copies fortnightly.

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

MANSFIELD

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

MITCHELL

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

MURRINDINDI

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

NILLUMBIK (RURAL)

56 years in local media

Best Local Reporting Award Victoria-wide Westpac Award

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”

“I really want to acknowledge the fantastic performers, who had great confidence, skill and talent – Ayla Coxford, Leo Liu, Amelia Wilson, Olive Murphy, Jasmine Mierke, Anna Egan, Willow Bullock, River Said, Sara Berecki, Matilda Prendergast, Elise Bidwell, Lucy Brennan, Shyla Campbell, Lucy Cracknell, Lucy Galpin, Evie Gray, Scarlett Hare, Evie Jackman, Aylisha Landy Stanway, Iris Murphy, Matilda Oaten, Sienna Owen, Zoe Sangwin and Lily Stephens – for their fantastic work,” Ms Ward told Parliament.

Local Photo Flashback

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

● Vicki Ward, Eltham MLA

Wetland Park at S. Morang

■ Families can now enjoy a place to play, exercise and relax following the upgrade of Hendersons Creek Wetland Park and Playground in South Morang.

Located next to The Promenade, the revamped park includes a new playground, outdoor fitness equipment, natural play features and a sheltered seating area.

The upgrade also delivers improved pathways, including the shared user path connection to The Lakes Boulevard and a new pedestrian crossing.

Nature has been deliberately woven into the park’s design, with open space and natural play elements encouraging children to explore and enjoy the outdoors.

City of Whittlesea Mayor, Cr Martin Taylor, joined Mill Park MLA Lily D’Ambrosio at the upgraded park’s official opening.

The project was supported by a $500,000 grant from the State Government’s Open Space for Everyone – Better Parks and Playgrounds Program and the Community Support Fund.

“This new play and recreation space is a wonderful addition to South Morang, giving families, children and the wider community a place to come together and enjoy the outdoors,” said Cr Taylor.

“Playgrounds and parks are about more than fun, they support community connection, health and wellbeing, and create spaces that people of all ages can enjoy.”

MAYOR RETURNS FROM CANBERRA

■ Murrindindi Shire Mayor, Cr Damien Gallagher , has returned from Canberra where he joined three fellow Victorian Mayors as part of the Municipal Association of Victoria’s inaugural Mayoral Delegation to the Federal Parliament

The visit provided an opportunity to put the concerns of local councils directly before Federal decision-makers.

The advocacy campaign coordinated by the MAV is built around five pillars:

■ Making Community Infrastructure Happen – delivering the infrastructure that growing and connected communities need.

■ Making Safer Roads Happen – connecting communities and supporting a safer and more productive Victoria.

■ Making Fairer Energy Happen – engaging communities in Victoria’s energy transition.

■ Making Resilient Communities Happen – future-proofing communities to withstand natural disasters.

■ Making Local Democracy Happen – supporting stronger, safer communities and countering disinformation.

Cr Gallagher took the lead on the Resilient Communities pillar, calling for a dedicated ‘Building to Withstand Fund’ to support pre-disaster investigative works and prioritise upgrades for high-need infrastructure.

“Our residents know the cost of more regular, more intense disasters: bushfires, floods, storms. Rebuilding the same as before is wasteful. If we build back stronger and smarter now, we will save taxpayers millions and reduce the disruption to communities,” Cr Gallagher said.

The delegation highlighted climate risks, noting that Murrindindi’s electorate of Indi is among the most climate-vulnerable in the country.

Bush users locked out

CENTRAL HIGHLANDS QUESTION

■ Long-term bush users are to be locked out of areas that the Allan Labor Government plan to create as more national parks, says Eildon MLA Cindy M cLeish.

“Labor is forging ahead with plans to convert state forests in central west Victoria to national parks, introducing legislation into Parliament,” Ms McLeish said.

The proposed new national parks – WombatLerderderg, Mt Buangor and Pyrenees – will cover more than 65,000 hectares and lock out bush users such as gold prospectors and fourwheel-drive enthusiasts, Ms McLeish said.

Future land arrangements for the Central Highlands remain unknown, Ms McLeish said.

In Parliament, Ms McLeish asked the Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos if any state forests will be converted to a national park. She said he Minister failed to answer the question directly.

“The Minister instead confirmed that the establishment of the ‘Great Forest National Park’ proposed by some environmental groups is not a government initiative or policy.

“In one breath Labor say they do not have policy to create national parks.

“In the next breath, they are already working to establish one. The future of the Central Highlands is up in the air.

“The Liberals and Nationals support the ongoing access to public land.

“We do not support the formation of more national parks.

“Bush users deserve clarity from their government about future access to their state parks and if they will be allowed to continue their favourite hobbies within Victoria.”

Ms McLeish said that anger has been building among bush user groups for some time, with more than 40,000 signatures collected in a petition against more national parks.

Firewood collectors, horse riders, trail bike riders, campers and dog walkers will all be impacted by the looming formation of new national parks, Ms McLeish said.

Planting day at South Morang

■ Mill Park MLA Lily D’Ambrosio has lauded the work of the Friends of Hillcroft Park who held a community planting day in South Morang.

“The Friends of Hillcroft Park, which formed in February this year, hosted the wonderful morning planting event, giving back to the land and helping to nurture a healthier local ecosystem,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.

“Supported by Landcare Victoria and Melbourne Water, locals came together in the drizzly weather to plant 332 native trees, shrubs and wildflowers in just 75 minutes, an outstanding achievement that will enrich the park for years to come.

“It was great to see so many families, including local resident George and his three kids, coming together to enjoy our local environment.

“I want to extend my thanks to president Kyoko Izamu, vice-president Gary Murphy, secretary David Legat and treasurer Olek Pogorily for their leadership and for inviting me to join in this terrific initiative.

“Their efforts demonstrate the best of our community,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.

Marysville award

■ Marysville Medical Clinic has again received a national award of accreditation, demonstrating its commitment to quality and safety.

Marysville Medical Clinic received recognition from Australian General Practice Accreditation Limited

AGPAL Chair, Dr Richard Choong, said accreditation shows that the practice makes a significant investment and commitment to quality on a day-to-day basis, across all levels of the practice team.

“Achieving accreditation is a major achievement for any practice and a clear demonstration that Marysville Medical Clinic is striving to improve their level of care to both patients and the community.”

.27) September. The monthly Community Centre busy bee will be held from 9am.

The committee for the next 12 months is Mark Newell (President), Graham Rothwell (Vice -President), Graham Lloyd (Secretary), Joanne Ginger (Treasurer), Fiona Snape and Kerry Guthrie are general committee members.

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.

● Lily D’Ambrosio MLA

● ● ● ● Cindy McLeish MLA

● ● Mill Park MLA Lily D’Ambrosio with Whittlesea’s Cr Martin Taylor

Statewide

SOUTH-EAST

Shots fired

■ Southern Metro Region Crime Squad detectives are appealing for public assistance as they investigate a non-fatal shooting earlier this year.

It is understood several shots were fired from a vehicle at a stolen grey BMW X5 during the early hours of Monday, May 26.

One of the occupants of the BMW, a 19year-old Clayton South man, was driven to a hospital in Berwick about 2.30am.

He sustained non-life-threatening injuries, including a gunshot wound.

Police were told the offenders fled in a vehicle.

Detectives are working to establish the exact location of the shooting and the circumstances of the incident.

The grey BMW was stolen from Armadale on May 24.

It was located in Doveton about 8am on May 26 with damage consistent with the discharge of a firearm.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam/CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

MELBOURNE

Hotel room burglary

■ Melbourne Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a 16-year-old boy following a burglary at a hotel in Melbourne earlier this month.

Investigators allege false identification was used to gain access to a room in the Wellington Pde complex about 7pm on September 5.

Cash and personal items were stolen.

Officers arrested a 16-year-old boy from the Geelong area and charged him with burglary, trespass and attempt to obtain property by deception.

He will face a Children’s Court at a later date.

● ● There are local editions of The Local Paper covering all Melbourne suburbs and the Mornington Peninsula.

Across Victoria WITNESS APPEAL AFTER VERMONT SOUTH STABBING

■ Transit Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance following a stabbing in Vermont South.

Police have been told a man was approached by an unknown male while standing at a bus-stop on Springvale Rd about 4pm on September 15.

The victim was stabbed to the upper body with an edged weapon.

The victim, a 37-year-old man, was conveyed to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The offender fled from the scene on foot with another male, west on Burwood Hwy.

The offender is perceived to be Caucasian, 186cm tall, aged in his 20s and was wearing a dark coloured hoodie and pants.

The other male he ran off with is perceived to be Caucasian, aged in his 30s, brown hair and was wearing a black singlet and shorts.

It is believed those involved are not known to each other.

Investigators have released images, a facial composite of the main offender and CCTV in the hope someone may recognise the males.

Anyone with information that could assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Statewide

COBURG

Bell St fatality

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal collision which occurred in Coburg on Thursday afternoon (Sep. 18).

Emergency Services were called to the intersection of Bell St and Sydney R d about 12.40pm after reports a truck and a female pedestrian had collided.

Crews treated the woman at the scene but she could not be revived. exact circumstances of the collision are being investigated and detectives from Major Collision Investigation Unit were notified.

MELTON

Portaloos stolen

■ Melton Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man after portaloos were allegedly stolen in Deanside

It is alleged two portable toilets were stolen from residential worksites on Lanning Way on Wednesday, September 10.

The alleged bandit was cut short when police executed a search warrant at a property on Marine Pde in Caroline Springs

They located one of the loos and seized a trailer which was allegedly used to transport the toilets.

Detectives arrested a 36-year-old man who was a little flushed at the scene.

The other stolen lavatory was located in Bayles

The Caroline Springs man was interviewed and has been charged with theft (x2) handle stolen goods, commit indictable offence whilst on bail and drugs offences. He was bailed to appear at Sunshine Magistrates’ Court on December 12.

HAWTHORN

Suspicious fire

■ Boroondara Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for public information as they continue to investigate a significant fire in Hawthorn earlier this year. A block of units was completely destroyed by the large fire on Thursday, April 10.

● ● ● ● Police want to speak with this man.

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

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

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

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

Designing for Tomorrow, Today

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

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

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

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

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

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

Additionally, Alex said that he liked that Wilson systems use R-290.

This low-global-warming-poten-

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

The Smarter Choice

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

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

Trusted expertise was another key factor for Alex.

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

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

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

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

Out With the Old, in With the New

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Product: Wilson Hot Water Heat Pump Range

Company: Wilson Hot Water

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

Court Lists

Seymour Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings

Thursday, September 25

Local News

Fatality at KG

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

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Corner Hotel. 65 Grant St.

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■ ALEXANDRA. Endeavour Alexandra (BP). 10 Downey St.

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Foodworks. 102 Grant St.

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Mount Pleasant Hotel. 90 Grant St.

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Nutrien Harcourts. 56 Grant St.

■

■ 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.

■

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

■ ■ WATTLE GLEN. Peppers

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

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

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

■ WESBURN. Hotel. 2882 Warburton Hwy.

■ WONGA PARK. IGA Xpress.

70 Jumping Creek Rd.

■

■

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

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

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

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

■

■ ■ ■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Whittlesea NewsXpress. 45 Church St.

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

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

■

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

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

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

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

■

■

■ ■ BUXTON. Shell Buxton. 2093 Maroondah Hwy.

■

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

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

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

■

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

■ ■ YARCK. Yarck Hotel. Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ YEA. Amble Inn Cafe. 24 High St.

Mitchell Shire Edition

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

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Corner Store. 89 High St.

■ ■ BROADFORD. Broadford Hotel. 100 High St.

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal collision in Kangaroo Ground on Friday afternoon, September 12.

Emergency Services were called to reports of a collision between two vehicles on Kangaroo Ground-Warrandyte Rd about 4.15pm.

CPR was performed but the driver of the first vehicle, a 27-year-old Wollert woman, died at the scene.

The driver second vehicle was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Exact circumstances surrounding the collision are being investigated.

Biketober

■ Biketober is back in the City of Whittlesea this October.

Residents are invited to take part in a free, month-long celebration of biking that kicks off on October 1.

There are prizes to win, including a $4000 holiday from Love to Ride.

■ Sign up at lovetoride.net/whittlesea

■ Ride for just 10 minutes (or more) and log your rides.

■ Ride solo or as part of a workplace, school or community group.

■ EILDON. Foodworks. 18 Main

■

St.

■

■

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

■

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

■ ■ EPPING. Epping RSL. Harvest Home Rd.

■

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

■

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

■

■ ■ ■ FLOWERDALE. Hazeldene

General Store. 6 Curlings Rd.

■ ■ GLENBURN. Glenburn Roadhouse. 3883 Melba Hwy.

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

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

■ ■ KINGLAKE. Cafe. WhittleseaKinglake Rd.

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

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

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

■

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

■ ■ MANSFIELD. Foodworks. 119 High St.

■

■

■ ■ MARYSVILLE. Foodworks. 40A Darwin St.

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

■

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

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

■

■

■

■ ■ 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. 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.

■

■ YEA. Grand Central Hotel. 64 High St.

■

■ ■ ■ ■ YEA. Marmalades. 20 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Mint and Jam. 46 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Nutrien Harcourts. 52

High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Newsagency. 67 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Post Office. 123 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Service Station. 165 High St.

■ ■ BROADFORD. Commercial Hotel. 31 High St.

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

■ BROADFORD. IGA Supermarket. 65 High St.

■

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

Amoroso, Damien Baines, Dion Christopher Bawlder, Barbara Bloomfield, Tyrone Borham, Andrew William Bowdler, Barbera Coldhill, Ryan David Dow, Caroline Jane Dries, Jason Duffy, Liam Ene, Chantelle Felix, Patrick Ford, Troy Mark Hore, Andrew William Hutchins, Damien Allan Hynes, Joshua Licciardino, Zaid Love, Robert James Mackey, Kristal Mason, Melissa Micevski, Peter Monaghan, Zak Newbould, Aron Osborne, Dean Mitchell Russell, Nathan Stephen, Troy Stewart, Toby Taylor, Stephen Brian Vickers, Ashlee Workman, Hayden Yoannides, Elana

Thursday, October 2

■ Get access to fun challenges, bicycle skills courses, prizes and more.

The City of Whittlesea is offering lowcost Learn to Ride programs throughout October, including a hands-on bike maintenance workshop, path-to-road skills sessions and free guided bike ride tours every Wednesday at various locations across the City of Whittlesea.

Mayor, Cr Martin Taylor, said: “Cycling is one of the simplest and most enjoyable ways to improve your health, reduce your carbon footprint, and connect with others in our community.

■

■

■ ■ 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.

“Biketober is the perfect opportunity to jump on a bike, discover new skills, and have some fun along the way.

“Council’s new Learn to Ride program is designed to give riders the confidence and knowledge they need to enjoy cycling safely.

■

■

■ ■ YEA. Yea Bakery. 44 High St.

■ KILMORE. Kilmore Bakery. 54 Sydney St.

■

■ ■ ■ YEA. Yea Newsagency. 74

High St.

■ ■ YEA. Yea Take-Away. 68 High St.

Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express Edition

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

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

■ KILMORE. Kilmore Newsagency. 41 Sydney St.

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

■

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

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

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

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

■ ■ SEYMOUR. Seymour NewsXpress. 66 Station St.

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

■

■

■ ■ ■ 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.

■ ■ LILYDALE. Lilydale Newsagency. 237 Main St.

■

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

■

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

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

■ ■ SEVILLE. Wooworths Seville. 568 Warburton Hwy.

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

■

■

■ ■ WARBURTON. Bakery. 3415 Warburton Hwy.

■ 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.

■

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

■ WALLAN EAST. New Rattlers Inn. Station St.

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

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

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

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

“Whether it’s children learning to ride for the very first time, adults returning to cycling after many years, or anyone wanting to feel more at ease on local roads and shared paths, these sessions provide practical skills that encourage lifelong habits.

“Together, we’re building a healthier, more sustainable, and more connected City of Whittlesea,” Cr Taylor said.

Engagement policy

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

The updated draft policy is designed to ensure engagement is open, inclusive and effective.

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

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

“Engagement is more than a processit’s about building trust, listening to diverse voices and shaping better outcomes together,” Cr Dumaresq said.

“We’d love to hear your ideas and make sure we’re connecting our actions with what matters to you.

“Everything we do at Council is for our community and engagement is how we ensure we continue to act based off what our community needs and wants,” Cr Dumaresq said.

Feedback closes September 30.

Full calendar

■ Cr Lawrie Cox reported to the latest Whittlesea Council on a busy calendar.

He attended the Residents Association meeting in the Wollert/Epping North area with bthe major topic being discussed is the incinerator, noting that the EPA was to make an announcement on the topic.

Cr Cox attended the National Growth Areas Alliance in Perth with the Mayor.

■

■

■ ■ ■ 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.

Altabaa, Mazen Ashworth, Carole Baines, Dylan James Barclay, Charles Barns, Elizabeth Bastow, Aaron James astow, Oliver Bourke, Joel Cheikh, Karim El Dow, Patricia Edwards, Dylan Edwards, Nathan Gak, Gak Aruai Haddara, Amir Haddara, Khaled Hogden, David Illingworth, Frances Jackson, Jye Allan Jones, Dion Joyce, Jason David Maidment, Stephen Mawas, Mohammad Mccabe-Jackson, Daniel Nicol, Shane Francis Petersen, Brent William Rusic, Benedict Alexander Theodorou, Evangelos Thomas-Leigh, Luca Tuppen, Clinton Walley, Adrian Winnell, Quinton Mansfield Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, October 1 Alee, Jacob Allsopp, Mitchell Anstee, Riley Bajrovic, Kemal Bowe, Michael Bradley, Paul Gregory Breier, Jessica Burgess, Luella Ann Butterworth, Flynn William Cashmore, Christian Chan, Tony Guan Emblin, Robert James Farnan, Jayne Forte, Adam Gould, Jeffery Griffin, Susan Hamka, Zakaria Hargrave, Turi Tiaki Khan, Awais Ahmad Khoushdel, Ahmad Kilkenny, Kate Kirby, Luke Stephen Konyn, Danny John Lia, Lynda Maden, Alan Mclaughlin, Andrew Northcote, Corey Oconnor, Sam Rhodes, Matthew Mcallister Saunders, Scott Raymon Sheahan, Thomas Singh, Komalpreet Skilfas, Andrew Stefanile, Anthony Taylor, Dillon Scott Thin Tuep, Ro Trika, Jeffrie Vincent, James Wagenknecht, Kaylah-Jane Warren, Kylie Yang, Vance Lin Young, Christopher

He represented the Mayor at the Dyson’s Bus Depot for the sod-turn of the electrical bus charging station on McKimmies Rd.

Cr Cox attended the Municipal Association Regional Meeting with the Mayor, Cr Martin Taylor.

Local Briefs

Kinder placements

■ Kndergartens in Mansfield Shire are now finalising placements for 2026.

Children in Victoria are eligible for free 3and 4-year-old kindergarten programs, including Pre-Prep. In Mansfield , families enrol directly with the kindergarten service they would like their child to attend.

Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie encouraged families to check their child’s enrolment.

“Early childhood education is so important to make sure our children get the best start in life,” he said.

“Council provides information to help families understand kindergarten and childhood services and what’s available locally, helping parents make the best decision on programs for their children.

“Even though kindergarten hours are funded, it’s up to families to actually enrol their children at their preferred kindergarten. Please make sure your child is enrolled and doesn’t miss out on getting a strong start,” Cr Rabie said.

The number of free hours per week varies depending on each child’s age and the service they attend (long day care or sessional kindergarten).

The number of free hours per week varies depending on each child’s age and the service they attend (long day care or sessional kindergarten).

For 3-year-old kindergarten, the free hours are between 5 and 15 hours per week.

For 4-year-old kindergarten, the free hours in 2026 are between 16 and 20 hours per week. The 4-year-old kindergarten program is continuing to transition into a new Pre-Prep program, with free hours gradually increasing to 30 hours per week from the previous 15 hours per week.

Not all kindergartens offer free programs. Families who choose to attend these kindergartens may be eligible for the Victorian Government’s Kindergarten Fee Subsidy to assist with meeting the cost of these programs.

Centres opened

■ The Nillumbik community saw the official opening of three already much-loved spaces on Friday, August 239: the Diamond Valley Library outdoor space; the upgraded Ryans Reserve in Diamond Creek ;and Interpretive Signage, Commemorative Plaques and Listening Post at Kangaroo Ground War Memorial Park.

At the Diamond Valley Library opening, Mayor Cr John Dumaresq was joined by Bundoora MLA Colin Brooks, Eltham MLA Vicki Ward, Jagajaga MHR Kate Thwaites, Crs Grant Brooker and Peter Perkins, Yarra Plenty Regional Libraries Board Member Robyn Ellard and previous CEO of YPRL, Jane Cowell, library staff, volunteers and local students.

Cr Dumaresq thanked the State Government for their significant contribution to this project.

“We received $438,243 from the Growing Suburbs Fund and $140,000 from the Federal Government via the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program. The project was completed with an additional $75,000 from Yarra Plenty Regional Library and $140,000 from Nillumbik Shire Council,” Cr Dumaresq said.

At Ryans Reserve, the Mayor was joined by Ms Ward, Nillumbik Shire Councillor Peter Perkins, members of the Ryan Family, President of the Rotary Club of Diamond Creek Warwick Leeson and Jean Verso from the Nillumbik Historical Society to celebrate the $1.7m upgrade to the Reserve

“Ryans Reserve isn’t just a park, it’s a place where families play, kids grow up and neighbours come together,” Cr Dumaresq said.

At the final destination of the day, the unveiling of Interpretive Signage and Commemorative Plaques at Kangaroo Ground War Memorial, Cr Dumaresq was joined by, Nillumbik Shire Councillor Kim Cope, and members the Friends of Kangaroo Ground War Memorial Park Inc., Anna Pelling and Jean Verso.

Cr Dumaresq acknowledged the contribution of $20,000 from the Victorian Government’s Living Local 2022-2023 Funding program and Nillumbik Council’s contribution of another $20,000 to the project.

“This funding reinforces the Victorian Government and Council’s commitment to preserving and enhancing places of local heritage and historical importance,” Cr Dumaresq said.

Firewood collectors charged

■ Two men allegedly caught illegally cutting and splitting a freshly felled tree for firewood in Wandong Regional Park have been charged.

A 45-year-old man from Hurstbridge and a 41-year -ld man from Diamond Creek face five charges under the ForestsAct1958for felling, cutting, splitting or taking timber in a State forest and possessing forest produce without authorisation.

The 41-year-old man from Diamond Creek also faces a charge for giving false information to an Authorised Officer.

The men were intercepted at 5.15am on July 14 by Conservation Regulator Authorised Officers with support from Victoria Police as part of ongoing surveillance activities through Taskforce Ironbark

The trailer, two chainsaws, firewood and other cutting equipment were seized.

Conservation Regulator, Manager Regulatory Operations Hume, Greg Chant , said: “These charges demonstrate once again that we won’t tolerate commercial firewood theft and we will take action against those responsible.

“Our Authorised Officers work with partner agencies to patrol Victoria’s State forests and parks at all hours to help protect biodiversity and ensure people follow the rules,” Mr Chant said.

Roo, joey could not be saved

■ A kangaroo in Dixons Creek had her jaw completely blown off by a shotgun, Northern Victoria MLC Georgie Purcell told Parliament.

“This roo was not immediately killed. Instead she suffered for days in pain and was unable to eat or drink,” Ms Purcell said.

“Vets for Compassion put out a call for sightings and eventually she was found, but, as expected, her injuries were far too severe and she and her joey could not be saved.

“Sadly, this is not a rare occurrence, but it is a brutal reality of legal kangaroo shooting in Victoria. The person responsible for this act of cruelty will likely never be found, because there are little tonochecksandbalancesinplace.

“Has the government launched an investigation into this brutal act in my electorate, and will it even attempt to find the individual responsible?” she asked.

Naturally coooler in Dindi

■ Murrindindi Shire Council has released its draft Urban Tree Strategy and is inviting feedback before the final version is adopted.

“The long-term Strategy includes a 10-year action plan to guide how the Council will protect and grow the Shire’s urban forest to enhance canopy cover, biodiversity and community wellbeing in the face of climate and development pressures,” said a Shire representative.

“Key targets include increasing tree canopy cover in public areas of townships to 40 per cent, filling vacant street tree sites, diversifying tree species to withstand climate adversity, pests and diseases, and embedding sustainable tree management in all Council projects.

Murrindindi Shire Council’s Sustainability and Assets Portfolio Councillor, Sue Carpenter, said: “Our street trees are a vital part of our communities, providing beautiful streetscapes, as well as shade, cooling, and mental health benefits. We want the Urban Tree Strategy to reflect the values of our residents. Your feedback will help us create a greener, more sustainable and naturally cooler Murrindindi for generations to come.”

Feedback is open until Monday, October 13, ahead of the Strategy being presented for adoption in November.

Local Briefs

Upgrade pumper

■ Warrandyte MLA Nicole Werner has asked Emergency Services Minister Jaclyn Symes to upgrade the “very out of date” pumper at Warrandyte CFA.

“I would like to wish a happy 21st birthday to Warrandyte CFA’s current pumper, but we are not popping any champagne because the equipment that Warrandyte CFA has is woefully out of date,” Ms Werner told Parliament.

“Warrandyte CFA’s current pumper has served them well over the years, but this vehicle was the best option back in 2004, not in 2025.

“In a high bushfire risk community like Warrandyte, minutes matter, equipment matters and crew safety matters.

“A modern appliance would lift pumping performance, reliability, communications and interoperability on the ground.

“As reported, Victoria is gearing up for a hot and dry fire season, so we need the replacement pumper as soon as possible.

“Our volunteers have done their part for 21 years and beyond, and it is time that the government do theirs.

“The needs of Warrandyte CFA have been made clear to me by their outstanding captain Will Hodgson and the dedicated members who serve our community so selflessly.

“I want to place on record my thanks and my recognition of recent milestones at the Warrandyte CFA, including for Caleb McMillan, Chris Tibb and Mark Wilson, with their 100 call-outs.

“Peter Noye and John Wright reached 200 call-outs. Scott McMillan reached 400 callouts. Louise Naus reached 500 call-outs. Tony Leone reached 600 call-outs and recorded the most calls for the year, with 132 calls.

“Captain Will Hodgson himself reached 1700 call-outs; Aaron Dean, even with a new baby this year in their family, reached 1800 call-outs – really remarkable – and the legendary Shane Murphy reached 1800 call-outs as well.

“I also acknowledge significant years of service: Glenn Wright with 15 years, Chris Spring with 20 years and both Peter Handoll and Narelle Brown with 25 years.

“Last but not least, Colin Browne received the Australian Fire Service Medal, and Peter Noye was awarded Warrandyte CFA’s Firefighter of the Year.

“I thank all at the Warrandyte CFA for their exceptional service to our community.

“We are so grateful for the way that you selflessly serve the people of Warrandyte, the way that you selflessly serve our community. It is absolutely magnificent.

“Thank you to you and your families for everything that you give up – all of the hours in training, every time your family sends you out the door to maybe put you in danger’s way just to be able to protect the lives of those here in Warrandyte but also beyond.

“We are so grateful, and I look forward to you receiving the much-needed upgrade of your pumper, which you deserve,” Ms Werner said.

Go Art at Avenel

■ Strathbogie Shire Council’s Artbox Gallery presents the works of a talented group of artists from Goulburn Options’ Go Art studio, on display until September 29 at Jubilee Park, Avenel

“This unique exhibition is available for viewing 24 hours a day through the gallery’s glass-fronted display, making art accessible to all, anytime,” said a Council representative.

The exhibition features a vibrant collection of artworks from some of the over 30 artists who are part of the Go Art studio, showcasing a wide range of styles from abstract to realism.

These artists are supported through one of Goulburn Options’ most celebrated initiatives, which encourages creative expression and supports emerging artists to exhibit and sell their work.

Exhibiting artists include Kath Sidebottom, David Tankey, Robbie Wales, Samantha Whitehurst, Leonie Nunn, Gemma Renfrey, Tahlia Butcher and Lukas Di Pietrantonio—each bringing their own unique perspective and creative voice to the exhibition.

Goulburn Options is a community-based, not-for-profit organisation that has been supporting people with disability and their carers since 1981. The Go Art program offers participants opportunities to explore a variety of mediums and techniques.

Georgie Purcell MLC

State Politics

Kalkallo growth

■ Ros Spence, Kalkallo MLA, has spoken in State Parliament about the rapid growth of her electorate.

“The Kalkallo electorate continues to be one of the fastest growing regions in Victoria, with diverse residents of all stages of life.

“And as it grows, the community relies on ongoing investment in services and infrastructure.

“The health of every Victorian remains one of the highest priorities for our government. That is why we are investing over $600 million to open and operate community hospitals across the state.

“This includes the Craigieburn Community Hospital, which provides local care as well as alleviating the pressure on nearby major hospitals,such as the Northern Hospital in Epping

“It has been really terrific to visit the hospital as services have been introduced, with pharmacy, dialysis and dental services underway for some time.

“It is now expanding to include paediatric development and feeding clinics, as well as antenatal and preterm birth care. In the coming months we will see more services, such as lung cancer screening and a specialist insulin pump clinic.

“This is a really important addition to our local community, and I look forward to even more services progressively rolling out.

“The budget also provides funding to continue operating urgent health clinics, ensuring that the Craigieburn urgent care clinic can keep delivering vital services for Craigieburn and the wider community.

“With extended hours, bulk billing and no appointment needed, these clinics are terrific for those who need urgent care but not an emergency response, again, freeing up our emergency departments and providing care close to home.

“As Minister for Community Sport, I know that sport plays a vital role in physical health, mental wellbeing and community connection.

“It is important to many Victorians, including those in Kalkallo, but we need to make sure that cost is not a barrier to that participation.

“That is why this government introduced the Get Active Kids voucher program in 2020, and that is why programs to support participation are even more important in this current cost-of-living crisis that is faced by families.

“That is why this budget provides $20.3 million over two years to continue community sport and active recreation programs, including the Get Active Kids voucher program.

“New funding of $15 million will enable the program to be delivered for a further two years. This is an incredibly popular program where eligible families are able to apply for vouchers of up to $200 per child over two rounds, with the first opening in October, followed by another round in February 2026.

“The program is incredibly popular in the Hume LGA, including in Kalkallo, and I am delighted that this program not only is continuing but will add another 65,000 vouchers to the almost 190,000 vouchers already provided.

“There is also $20 million in this budget for community sport and active recreation infrastructure, including up to $400,000 for a new sports and community pavilion at Dwyer St Reserve, in the rapidly growing part of Kalkallo, and up to $500,000 to upgrade the Beveridge Recreation Reserve, which is needing to service more and more residents every year and for another round of the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund, which I encourage the Mitchell and Hume LGAs to submit applications for,” Ms Spence said.

“We have continued to open schools over the past 10 years – next year I might be opening schools 11, 12 and 13. So we are recognising that there is significant growth, and we are making sure that the facilities are provided so that people can access education nice and close to home.

“Alongside those schools, we have also got the adjacent kindergartens being built. Sometimes they are in the community centres that we fund with local councils, which provide not only the kindergarten services but also the maternal and child health services that Council deliver. I think we are up to about six to eight of those that we have opened in the last 10 years.

“They have been incredibly important for the local community, which does have a lot of babies being born every month – we are taking care of that. But also that we now have the adjacent kindergartens to the schools is really good. We recently opened one this year that was next to Wallan Secondary school, and that sits really nicely on that site,” Ms Spence said.

$180,000 for Ranges groups

■ Yarra Ranges Council has allocated more than $180,000 to 11 community and sporting clubs, to improve recreation infrastructure, through its annual Capital Development Grants

The grants provide up to $30,000 annually for community groups to undertake minor capital improvements to infrastructure that benefit sport and recreation organisations.

The groups receiving funding in the 2025-26 Capital Development Grants round include:

■ Belgrave Heights Tennis Club

■ Yarra Glen Bowls Club

■ Mooroolbark and District Miniature Railway and Steam Club

■ Monbulk Pony Club

■ Doongala Pony Club

■ Silvan Football Club

■ Mooroolbark Cricket Club

■ Mount Evelyn Football Club

■ Chirnside Park Football Club

■ Eastern Ranges Football Club, and

■ Montrose Tennis Club

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Jim Child, congratulated the successful clubs on their funding.

“I’m really pleased that local clubs have taken up the opportunity to improve their community infrastructure with these grants,” he said. “For club members, these spaces are homes away from home. They’re places where people meet friends, get active and strengthen their connections to community.

Bushfire survivors respond

■ Bushfire survivors have responded to the Federal Government’s 2035 climate target announcement.

“A weak target means my community faces more extreme weather events and the damage they cause,” said Janet Meade of Christmas Hills

Serena Joyner said: “This is a weak target - from a government that simultaneously claims to be proactive on climate.

“It is a betrayal of every survivor of bushfires, floods and storms - every person the Prime Minister has hugged or consoled on the fireground or floodplain, in the wreckage of their lives.

“This target sets us on a path oftwo degrees of warming and that means more summers like Black Summer, and more families and communities devastated by loss.

“Disappointed doesn’t even begin to describe how we feel.”

Whittlesea’s local heroes

■ The City of Whittlesea is inviting families to come together to honour the bravery and dedication of local emergency services at this year’s Emergency Services Expo, featuring the 29th Annual Blessing of the Emergency Services Fleet

Held on Saturday, October 4, from 10am to 12pm at Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre, 35 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang, the Expo is a free community event that celebrates the people who protect us and the equipment they use to keep us safe.

There will be plenty of fun activities for families to enjoy, including:

■ Free kids’ activities

■ A coffee van

■ A sausage sizzle.

The event is open to everyone, and all are encouraged to come along, show their support and celebrate the courage of local emergency service workers and volunteers.

Cr Martin Taylor, Mayor of the City of Whittlesea, said: “This event is a heartfelt tribute to the local heroes who put themselves on the line to keep our community safe. It’s a chance to say thank you, together, as a community. As someone who has worked and volunteered as a first responder, I know firsthand the dedication, sacrifice and courage of our emergency services personnel and I am proud to stand alongside them at this special event.”

Pet likes

■ Euroa MLA Annabelle Cleeland has spoken in Parliament about animal care.

“We have an off-the-track thoroughbred, which my husband calls the most expensive lawnmower you will ever come across,” Ms Cleeland said.

“A nice little shout-out to the Nagambie breeders, because I have got some of the best, world-class thoroughbred breeders in the electorate, and their whole-of-life care for these magnificent animals is just inspiring – hence where our expensive lawnmower came from, who has a wonderful retired life grazing the hills.

“His name is Killer Valley, but I would not get on a horse called Killer, so we called him Manu because of his New Zealand genetics.

“In the past couple of months we have helped care for a koala, a turtle and a duckling.

“A nice little shout-out to Seymour, because we have the best greyhound adoption program based in Seymour, which is another rehoming program to support the greyhound industry, making sure that they are whole-of-life supported, these magnificent animals.

“Gosh, we sound like we have a zoo at home, but we have also adopted a greyhound called Gertrude,” Ms Cleeland said.

Tree trimming

■ Strathbogie Shire Council intends to carry out tree trimming around electric lines in the townships of Avenel and Euroa

The works schedule, weather pending, is to be beginning no earlier than September 29, and to be completed by October 31.

Solar Savers

■ Mitchell Shire residents now have the opportunity to access affordable, high quality solar, batteries, heat pumps and split systems through the local government supported Goulburn Murray Solar Savers program.

“The program was established in response to extensive community interest,” said a Council representative.

Goulburn Murray Solar Savers is providing free advice and quotes to homeowners and business located in Mitchell Shire

“All residents and business are encouraged to express their interest directly with Goulburn Murray Solar Savers to learn more about eligibility for government rebates,” the Shire representative said.

SDCA fixtures

■ A-Grade. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. Seymour v Puckapunyal. Alexandra v Pyalong. Avenel v Yea Tigers. Tallarook: Bye.

■ B-Grade. Round 1. Saturday, October 11. Tallarook v Seymour 58ers. Alexndra v Pyalong. Seymour Cobs v Puckapunyal. Avenel v Yea Tigers.

■ Under 16. Round 1. Sunday, October 26. Tallarook v Pyalong. Seymour Mixed v Avenel. Yea v Alexandra.

■ Under 13. Round 1. Saturday, October 25. Seymour Mixed v Avenel. Yea v Alexandra. Tallarook: Bye.

● ● Cr Martin Taylor, Mayor

● ● Janet Meade of Christmas Hills

Latest News

String of offences

■ Detectives from North West Metro Regional Crime Squad have charged two men and a woman following their arrest in Moonee Ponds for an alleged spate of offending across various Melbourne suburbs.

A 48-year-old man from Pascoe Vale has been charged with:

■ Aggravated intentional exposure of police office to risk by driving x 6

■ Driving in a dangerous manner

■ Resisting police

■ Trafficking a commercial quantity of methyl-amphetamine

■ Possessing methyl-amphetamine

■ Possessing 1,4-Butanediol

■ Dealing with property suspected of being proceeds of crime x 2

■ Refusing a preliminary breath test

■ Using a false document

A 33-year-old woman from Point Cook has been charged with:

■ Contravening bail conditions x 2

■ Failing to answer bail

■ Dealing with property suspected of being proceeds of crime

A 36-year-old man from Ascot Vale has been charged with:

■ Burglary x 9

■ Attempted burglary x 3

■ Theft x 7

■ Theft of motor vehicle

■ Attempted aggravated home invasion

■ Intentionally causing injury

■ Dealing with property being proceeds of crime x 2

■ Possessing methyl-amphetamine x 1

All three were to appear in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.

The trio were arrested just after 12 Noon on Tuesday (Sep. 16) in Murray St after they allegedly rammed two police cars and attempted to flee on foot.

The charges relate to alleged incidents in suburbs including Armadale, South Yarra, Maribyrnong, South Morang, Campbellfield, Lynbrook, East Melbourne and Sunbury since July.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Fire follow-up

■ Detectives from Taskforce Hawk have charged three people as part of their investigation into a factory fire earlier this year in Derrimut.

A 38-year-old Brunswick man, a 33-yearold Craigieburn man and a 36-year-old Roxburgh Park man have all been charged with criminal damage by fire (arson) and theft of motor vehicle.

The trio, who were all in custody on unrelated matters, were to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on September 19.

The charges follow a fire at a Calarco Drive business about 5.35am on May 27. Police will allege that the Craigieburn man and the Roxburgh Park man were responsible for lighting the fire while the third man, from Brunswick, directed the offences. Earlier, detectives appealed for public information in relation to the fire, as well as a second earlier fire in Maribyrnong on April 6. The Maribyrnong fire occurred outside a residential address on Scenic Drive shortly after 1.30am.

Footage shows two offenders dousing the two vehicles in accelerant before setting them alight.

The residence was not damaged and the family inside the address was not physically injured.

Police continue to treat the two fires as linked, and are looking at the possibility they may also be linked to further incidents.

The investigation remains ongoing and detectives are keen to speak to anyone who may have information about the incidents. As always, information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on on 1800 333 000.

7 CHARGED OVER COBBLEBANK DEATHS

■ Homicide Squad detectives have charged seven people as part of their investigation into the deaths of two children in Cobblebank earlier this month.

Warrants were executed from 6am on Friday (Sep. 19) with assistance from VIPER Taskforce and local police at properties in Melton South, Thornhill Park, Caroline Springs, Sunbury, Wollert, Hillside and Sydenham (2).

A 19-year-old Thornhill man, a16-year-old Sunbury boy, a 15year-old Hillside boy and a 16year-old Sydenham boy have been charged with the murder of 15-year-old Dau Akueng

A 19-year-old Caroline Springs man, an 18-year-old Wollert man and a 16-year-old Sydenham boy have been charged with the murder of 12year-old Chol Achiek.

The three adults were to face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Friday afternoon.

The four children were toi face a children’s court.

The charges follow two incidents in Cobblebank on Saturday, September 6, that resulted in the deaths of 15year-old Dau Akueng and 12year-old Chol Achiek.

Emergency services were initially called shortly before 8pm that night following reports two children has been fatally injured.

Chol was subsequently located on Marble Drive while Dau was located on Cobble St.

Both of the boys were bravely assisted by members of the public before they passed away at the scene.

Since the incident occurred, a significant investigation led by detectives from the Homicide Squad has been underway in an effort to identify those responsible and collect all available evidence.

Learn Classical Guitar

Anastasia Anastasia

● ● ● ● Robert Tripolino, Joshua Robson, Rodney Dobson, Rhonda Burchmore and Nancye Hayes will join Georgina Hopson in leading the cast of Anastasia, which will have its Australian premiere at the Regent Theatre in Melbourne in December.

Playing an instrument has many benefits for children. Research has shown that it helps improve academic and social skills, promotes discipline, and boosts selfesteem. Playing music can relieve stress and help spur a lifelong appreciation for music. Children who undergo musical training have better verbal memory, second language pronunciation accuracy, reading ability and executive functions. Learning to play an instrument as a child may even predict academic performance and IQ in young adulthood.

Experience Turkish Culture Through Coffee

Latest News

Anti-social blitz

■ Police have arrested almost 30 people and laid just shy of 70 charges in a week-long blitz targeting antisocial behaviour in St Kilda, South Melbourne and Port Melbourne.

Over a five-day period South Melbourne and St Kilda Uniform Police, as well as the Port Phillip Neighbourhood Policing Unit:

■ Arrested 27 people

■ Executed 44 warrants

■ Laid 68 charges

■ Located 31 people wanted on whereabouts

■ Seized one controlled weapon and one dangerous article

Among those arrested:

A 24-year-old man was arrested on Park St, South Melbourne, and charged with more than 40 offences, including shop steal, contravene bail conditions, and commit indictable offence while on bail. He was remanded to appear in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on September 19.

A 46-year-old man was arrested on Dorcas St, South Melbourne, over alleged family violence offences. It will be alleged he was found in possession of a knife. Charges are pending for possessing a controlled weapon. He will face court at a later date.

Police also engaged with local retailers, specifically along Clarendon and Bay Sts in South Melbourne, and Acland, Carlisle and Fitzroy Sts in St Kilda, following a spike in retail theft.

Similar operations will be conducted in the future.

South Melbourne Uniform Sergeant Edward Beaurepaire said: “Last week’s efforts by local police resulted in a large number of executed warrants – an average of almost nine a day – and that’s on top of foot patrols along busy streets across three suburbs.

“Almost 70 charges were laid against 27 people for antisocial behaviour that we, and residents, consider to be unacceptable.

“That’s why we conduct these operations; we are not only making the streets safer for locals and visitors to our area, but we are also making people feel safer, too.

“This sends a clear warning to thieves, wanted offenders, and those in possession of drugs or weapons, that police will continue to proactively target crime in the area.”

CBD shooting

■ Homicide Squad detectives have charged two men following a fatal shooting in Melbourne’s CBD earlier this month.

With assistance from the Special Operations Group, four men were arrested in South Melbourne shortly about 3.20pm on Wednesday, September 17.

The quartet were interviewed by police and a 23-year-old Doveton man and a 22year-old Clyde North man were subsequently charged with murder.

The pair were to face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on September 18.

A 23-year-old Keysborough man and a 22year-old Pakenham man were both arrested and released without charge pending further enquiries.

The arrests follow an incident in the Melbourne CBD about 3.40am on September 7 where a 26-year-old Seabrook man was shot.

He was conveyed to hospital with upper body injuries but died shortly after.

Police will allege the incident was targeted and that the parties involved were known to each other.

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

Flynn fatal crash

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash which occurred in Flynn on Wednesday evening (Sep. 17). Emergency Services were called to the intersection of Flynns Creek Rd and Ingles Rd about 8.10pm after reports a car had left the road and crashed.

● ● Chol Achiek and Dau Akueng

Your Stars

with Kerry Kulkens

Presented by Sarah Kulkens, Australia’s

Trusted Psychic Family

ARIES (March 21 - April 20)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 1, 2, 1, 9

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 19, 25, 28, 37

This week presents more opportunities to advance your career plans. While some doubts about existing relationships may arise, it’s best to let things remain as they are for now. Expect unusual invitations on the social scene.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 2, 4, 3, 4

Lotto Numbers: 4, 13, 22, 31, 39, 40

Friends may try to meddle in your private affairs if you let them. Trust your instincts as your ideas are likely to be accurate. Expect to be in high demand on the social scene.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 4, 5, 3, 2

Lotto Numbers: 4, 13, 22, 31, 32, 42

Avoid rushing into impulsive romantic encounters, as they could lead to trouble. Prioritise your health and ensure you’re looking after yourself. Your determination at work may bring positive outcomes.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Sunday

Racing Numbers: 5, 1, 6, 5

Lotto Numbers: 5, 14, 23, 26, 35, 41

This period may feel emotionally intense, and you might overspend to keep loved ones happy. New opportunities for financial gain are on the horizon.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 1, 4, 6, 4

Lotto Numbers: 5, 14, 25, 30, 32, 44

New friendships may offer opportunities to mix business with pleasure, and love relationships are set to become more enjoyable. Expect a few surprises during your travels.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 1, 4, 1, 7

Lotto Numbers: 1, 10, 14, 17, 27, 33

This is a great time to ask for favours, start new ventures, and make investments. Romantic opportunities abound, and someone you meet during this period may capture your interest.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 1, 1, 3, 4

Lotto Numbers: 1, 11, 25, 35, 40, 43

Something from your past is likely to resurface, offering answers to mysteries and tying up loose ends. Seek favours from those in a position to help further your ambitions. Many will embark on new paths during this period.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 3, 7, 4, 3

Lotto Numbers: 3, 7, 16, 30, 37, 43

You may face obstacles in family relationships. Ensure everyone is contributing their share and not relying too heavily on you for support.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 2, 2, 7, 6

Lotto Numbers: 2, 11, 20, 27, 29, 38

This is a time for renewing relationships and friendships. The unusual and mysterious may catch your attention, but not everyone can keep up with your pace.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 3, 3, 2, 1

Lotto Numbers: 3, 12, 21, 26, 30, 39

Friends may provide an excellent financial opportunity. Old acquaintances may get in touch, making you more inclined to socialise. Financially, a lucky period is ahead.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 1, 8, 9, 2

Lotto Numbers: 9, 18, 24, 34, 36, 42

This period is full of rewards and surprises. Greater responsibilities and hard work will be necessary, but the effort will pay off. Some could even experience a financial windfall.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 3, 2, 8, 3

Lotto Numbers: 12, 21, 30, 38, 39, 40

You may feel the influence of others trying to steer you towards their ideas. However, you can surprise everyone by expanding your business or achieving personal aims. Believe in yourself and pursue your ambitions.

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.

Civil society backs Treaty

Sir,

Fifty civil society organisations have joined forces to back the Victorian Government’s landmark commitment to legislate a Treaty with First Peoples by publishing an open letter urging the Parliament of Victoria to pass the legislation without delay.

The joint letter calls Treaty a long-overdue step toward unity, justice and a stronger democracy.

Signatories include national and Victorian community and advocacy groups representing hundreds of thousands of Victorians.

Civil society has a vital role to play in supporting this historic reform.

Civil society exists to help build a fair, inclusive and accountable democracy — and Treaty goes to the heart of that work.

Treaty is about shifting power, embedding self-determination, and ensuring decisions about Aboriginal communities are made by Aboriginal people.

Organisations across the community sector see every day how current systems fail First Peoples — and how much stronger our democracy can be when communities have the power to shape their own futures.

That’s why groups from across our sector are standing together to support this legislation. We call on Parliament to enshrine Treaty in law without delay.

Saffron Zomer Executive Director Australian Democracy Network

Allergic disease

Sir,

One in three Australians now live with allergic disease, costing $18.9b in financial losses and $44.6b in non-financial impacts each year, according to a new Deloitte Access Economics report.

More than eight million Australians are estimated to live with allergic disease –leading to mounting costs and unprecedented demand for allergy services.

A new Deloitte Access Economics report - CostlyReactions: The economic and socialcostofallergicdiseasein

Australia, revealed the annual financial burden had reached $18.9 billion, up from $7.8 billion in financial burden reported in 2007.

The report was developed with the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy and the National Allergy Council.

For too long, the everyday impact of allergic disease has been invisible.

Allergies don’t just disrupt health – they reshape lives. Millions of families are living with constant vigilance and fear.

This report gives us the clearest evidence yet of how allergic disease affects Australians – clinically, socially and economically.

Allergic disease is one of Australia’s fastest growing chronic conditions with hay fever (~24%), food allergy (7%) and drug allergy (5%) among the most common, according to new research by

Observer Mailbag

Shortletters(nomore than200words)onlocal subjectsareinvitedfrom readers.

Emailto: 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.

the National Allergy Centre of Excellence, which helped underpin TheCostlyReactions report.

Professor Kirsten Perrett, Director of the NACE and Murdoch Children’s Research Institute Population Allergy Group Leader, said possible drivers of the increase in allergic disease were environmental changes such as urbanisation and air pollution; lifestyle factors like sanitisation and antibiotic use; and increased awareness.

“Australia has some of the highest allergy rates globally, including the world’s highest reported rate of infant food allergy, affecting one in 10 babies.

“The burden isn’t just physical; for many families allergic disease disrupts daily life and brings financial and emotional strain,” said Professor Perrett, a paediatric allergist.

“Through national research collaboration, we’re now better placed than ever to understand these complex conditions and deliver more targeted, effective responses.”

Key findings of the report include:

■ An estimated 8.2 million Australians (30%) live with allergic disease, up from 4.1 million (19.6%) reported in 2007 Many people – and households – manage at least two allergic conditions at the same time

■ The estimated annual financial cost of allergic disease is $18.9 billion, and a further $44.6 billion in wellbeing losses

■ There is an average financial cost of $2318 and a further $5470 of non-financial costs per

person living with allergic disease

■ Living with the risk of anaphylaxis has a significant impact on health and wellbeing of both the individuals and their families due to anxiety, isolation, and poor mental health.

■ 68.9% of those affected are of working age, with 80% of financial costs linked to lost productivity

■ Food allergy peaks in childhood, hay fever in teens and young adults, and drug allergy in older adults

■ Ongoing investment in the NAC and NACE programs is essential to reduce the burden of allergic disease for millions of Australians

Australia’s coordinated national response to allergic disease is led by two peak bodies established in 2022 following a bipartisan parliamentary inquiry and subsequent Walking the Allergy Tightrope report:

■ The National Allergy Council , a partnership between ASCIA and A&AA, which delivers public education, prevention and policy initiatives. The National Allergy Centre of Excellence, hosted at MCRI, is Australia’s peak allergy research body building critical research infrastructure and collaboration to transform allergy care.

“The strength of this work lies in collaboration,” said Dr Michael O’Sullivan, ASCIA President and clinical immunology/allergy specialist.

“We’ve made progress, but more work is needed to make sure Australians can access the quality, research-driven, allergy care they desperately need now, and in the future.”

Maria Said Co-chair of the NAC and CEO of Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia (A&AA)

Missing pillar

Sir, Australia must be diligent and committed to strengthening productivity and food security if it is to underwrite the needs of a population projected to reach 45 million within two decades.

The question is whether the Economic Reform Roundtable meaningfully addressed that challenge, or become yet another politically motivated talkfest.

In a nation defined by droughts and flooding rains, a coherent national water policy must sit at the heart of long-term planning.

Yet, the Albanese Government’s vision remains tethered to the existing Murray–Darling Basin Plan, a framework that is, at its core, an environmental policy.

It is not a plan for national resilience, food security, food affordability, or regional productivity.

The current investment thesis is fundamentally upside down.

Billions of taxpayer dollars are being spent to buy back productive water licenses, displacing food production and increasing reliance on imported foods.

David Farley

Narrandera

NSW

Secret swap

■ The Soviet Union had offered conditionally to accept President Eisenhower's plan for the exchange of military "blueprints" with the United States, the "New York Times" reported today. The report quoted authoritative sources as saying that a letter to President Eisenhower from Marshal Bulganin, Soviet Premier, made the following proposals:

■ The Soviet Union would agree to exchange military "blueprints" if the U.S. agreed to provide such information about its military bases overseas as well as its military establishments on U.S. territory.

■ The Soviet Union would accept the President's proposal for mutual aerial reconnaissance, but only if it were part of a comprehensive disarmament programme, which would include prohibition of the use of nuclear weapons.

Farmers will ride

■ "The Victorian farmer will weather the coming prices crisis," the Governor, Sir Dallas Brooks, .assured, a crowd of more than 10,000 at the Royal Show yesterday.

"To meet and de feat this situation our producers will need all their skill," Sir Dallas said.

Sir Dallas was officially opening the Show, Victoria's 107th agricultural display. Sir Dallas said: "By proper application of latest scientific and engineering-aids, the farmer will weather every storm.”

Wet track

■ Only five runners will start in today's Quality Handicap at Moonee Valley.

This is because almost two-and-a-half inches of rain had fallen on the track in the last two days.

It was announced last night that neither Lady Mogambo nor ' Connaught would run.

The five starters are Caulfield Cup candidates, and three of them are highly fancied for the big race.

Shirley, Matilda

■ Granny B.B.C. mustered its tried favorites, the newcomers dived into variety - and Australia's Shirley Abicair sang . . . yes, WaltzingMatilda. It was the BIG night -the birth of Britain's commercial television

And Shirley - with a Grecian hairdo - went over big, too, on one of the new stations. Millions saw her in their homes on TV sets newly ad justed to receive the commercial "channels." It was something of an historic occasion .

Brandenburg 2026

■ The Australian Brandenburg Orchestra has announced its 2026 season, a dynamic program of live concerts to be performed at Melbourne Recital Centre

In 2026, the Brandenburg will present the premiere of a newly unearthed Classical concerto by Austrian composer Ignaz Joseph Pleyel previously lost to time.

This will be alongside the Australian premiere of a Sinfoniaby Antonio Salieri.

Acclaimed American violinist Augusta McKay Lodge has her Australian debut, and celebrated Italian baritone Renato Dolcini returns for a journey through the heart of Baroque Italy

Co-Founder and Artistic Director Paul Dyer said: “Since our very first concert, we’ve been driven by a belief in the power of live performance to move, uplift, and connect.

“It is a celebration of creativity, shared experience, and the moments that linger long after the final note.

“In 2026, we invite you to experience a season that brings this vision to life with fresh energy and unforgettable artistry.

“From Augusta McKay Lodge’s illumination of Anna Maria della Pietà’s unsung brilliance in her Australian debut, to the premiere of Pleyel’s rediscovered concerto alongside Mozart and Salieri, this exciting season champions the renewal and enduring significance of Baroque music.”

Co-Founder and Managing Director Bruce Applebaum said: “This is a season shaped by bold contrasts and remarkable voices. You’ll be drawn into the drama of the Italian Baroque through the commanding presence of Renato Dolcini, and later experience our orchestra and choir in music that ranges from the radiant joy of Bach to the sparkling invention of Telemann

“It all builds to a final chorus that promises to lift your spirits. From the shimmer of solo brilliance to the sweep of the orchestra in full flight, every concert offers its own universe of sound.”

The 2026 season will open in February with BaroqueMasters, a vibrant tribute to the composers who rest at the centre of the Brandenburg’s musical identity: George Frideric Handel, Johann Sebastian Bach, Johann Pachelbel and Antonio Vivaldi

Bringing together all the ‘greats’ in one must-see program led by Artistic Director Paul Dyer, this concert celebrates the music that eternally inspires the Brandenburg Showcasing the full range of their artistry from the grandeur of Handel’s Concerto GrossoinGmajor,Op.6No.1 to the timeless elegance of Pachelbel’sCanon, this program represents and reflects the essence of the Brandenburg.

For the second concert series, the Brandenburg Choir and Orchestra will join forces in April for ChoralSplendour, a concert series showcasing the invention, expressive depth, and majesty of the Baroque Bach’s celebrated cantatas are the centrepiece of this series alongside his highly regarded DoubleViolinConcertoto be performed by Brandenburg’s Concertmaster and Baroque Violin, Shaun Lee-Chen and Principal Second Baroque Violin, Ben Dollman

With the Choir diving into Handel’s regal anthems, such as ZadokthePriestand The King Shall Rejoice, this series will fill the performance halls with dazzling harmonies and vocal performances.

In June, audiences will step into the world of high style and high emotion as Italian baritone Renato Dolcini returns to the Brandenburg stage for a journey through the heart of Baroque Italy

From Naples to Rome, Venice to Florence, Italian Serenatas highlights the music of each Italian city and its unique artistry in a celebration of past and present.

Blurring the line between concert and opera, Milan-born Dolcini’s acclaimed voice and charismatic presence will capture the spirit of the golden age of Italian Baroque music.

Acclaimed Paris-based violinist Augusta McKay Lodge makes her Australian debut as soloist and Guest Director, shining a light on one of Baroque music’s most fascinating and overlooked figures, Anna Maria della Pietà

An intimate and poetic program, Vivaldi’s Legacywill highlight this virtuoso who lived and performed at the Venetian orphanage where Vivaldi taught, inspiring some of his finest and most demanding works.

More than just his student, della Pietà was celebrated in her time, played multiple instruments with extraordinary skill, and had music written specifically for her by composers across Europe

‘JOB’ AT RED STITCH

■ A dramatic immediacy opens Max Wolf Friedlich’s Jobat Red Stitch Theatre

Short, sharp vignettes reveal Jane (Jessica Clarke) pointing a gun at Loyd (Darren Gilshenan), Loyd berating an imaginary individual, and a dynamic that the audience must interpret.

We discover Jane is seeing Loyd in his professional capacity as a therapist who will determine if she can return to work after a breakdown. Ostensibly, both individuals hold each other to ransom.

This is the backdrop of Friedlich’s exploration of numerous contemporary themes, not the least of which is violence in society.

Jane feels the weight and responsibility of her role in the digital world scrubbing inappropriate content from the internet but, simultaneously, can’t cope with the pressure.

Loyd is compromised between providing professional advice and saving himself by telling Jane what she wants to hear. The dilemma of the new age is upon us all.

The setting (Jacob Battista) is a typical consultant's room with desk, chairs and couch but a buzz from the lights skirting the set (David Parker) denotes the fractured state of Jane’s mind.

The work builds in intensity over 75 minutes. Clarke and Gilshenan find the initial comedy in the contradictions facing their characters which turns to fear and trepidation as the accusations fly and each tries to establish control of both the session and their wider lives.

Director Nadia Tass has seen that the ambivalence reaches a crescendo where truth and responsibility are brought into question.

Friedlich has, perhaps, attempted to cram too much into this play as the characters rail against the changes brought about by technology.

Simultaneously, trying to find a moment simply to be heard and understood remains the constant. The personal and the professional intertwine when Jane threatens Loyd’s life on suspicion of inappropriate conduct.

The final blackout leaves the audience questioning who we can and cannot trust in today’s society.

Performance Season: Until October 12

Bookings: redstitch.net

Review by David McLean

Advent Brass Band

■ What an amazing afternoon of big band music at Hamer Hall. The one hundred year celebration of Advent Brass Band had everything including aerials, tap dancing, amazing soloists, inspiring duets , comedy, visuals along with three plus hours of music, ranging from the Flinstones theme song to musical theatre to gospel.

There were many warm, humorous moments in this show, not surprisingly with this very family oriented band.

Everyone seemed at ease, eager to ‘joke’

● ● ● ● The original 1992 Melbourne

Photo: Branco Gaica. ■ Hair, a brand-new production of the Grammy and Tony Award-winning tribal rock show comes to the Athenaeum Theatre from October 25 for a strictly limited season.

When Hair first exploded onto the Australian stage in the early 1970s, it not only shocked and thrilled audiences, but also launched the careers of some of the country’s leading performers.

Artists such as Marcia Hines, Reg Livermore, John Waters, Lyndsay Field and Sylvie Paladino all appeared in early productions, cementing their places in Australian music and theatre history.

Created by Gerome Ragni and James Rado (book and lyrics) and score by Galt MacDermot, it became an anthem for a generation, and included hits such as Aquarius, GoodMorningStarshine,LettheSunshine In, and the title track Hair- songs that broke records, topped charts, and helped define the sound of the era.

Sarah Walker. around with the audience and themselves making for a relaxed atmosphere. Much of this was due to the easy manner of the amazing guest artist James Morrison, who gave generously with so many numbers played on various instruments, along with some very clever banter. His son William Morrison also made a musical appearance with guitar and vocals.

A highlight of the afternoon was the recorded interview with inspiring one hundred year old pianist Romney King, to be surpassed immediately with him playing live- Beethoven, then performing an impromptu duet with James Morrison.

It was an amazing opportunity to grasp how ageless music is with artists in this band ranging from nine to one hundred, yet working together in a way that made age irrelevant.

Advent Brass Band under conductor Reynold W.B.Gilson with various members arranging the music gave a number of ‘wow’ moments.

Most of the music was familiar, arrangements including music such as The Impossible Dream,Sway,IGotRhythm,SingingInThe Rain,AmazingGrace,Batmantheme to mention just a few. Something for all generations to appreciate. Singers Helena McKee, Walter Saluni, Tim Jaques, also musicians, sang beautiful solos plus wonderful heartfelt duets.

Wayne Boehm was a warm, entertaining MC.

Thankyou Advent Brass Band, Romney King, James Morrison, Helena McKee and all other 36-plus artists for this once in a lifetime musical theatre feast.

It was such a privilege to hear this talent, to be a part of this one centennial celebration.

Review by

Elizabeth Semmel

Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, the groundbreaking musical captures the 1960s counterculture spirit and its quest for peace, truth and freedom, telling the story of free-spirited young hippies who advocate a lifestyle of pacifism and free love in a society riddled with intolerance and brutality.

As they explore sexual identity, challenge racism, experiment with drugs and burn draft cards, the "tribe" not only create an irresistible message of hope and change, but also address timeless themes of alienation, civil disobedience, and youthful defiance that continue to resonate with audiences almost 60 years later.

Director Glenn Elston said: “I’ve always had a very personal connection to Hair, it’s the soundtrack of my youth during a time really close to my heart.

“Revisiting it now, I’m reminded how fearless this show was back then and how much it still matters today. I’m genuinely excited to bring it back for those who know it and love it and to introduce it to a whole new generation."

Venue: Athenaeum Theatre, 188 Collins St, Melbourne

Dates: October 25 - November 22

Price: From $59 - $139

Times: Wed 1pm and 7pm, Thu. – Sat. 7.30pm, Sun. 1pm and 6.30pm (no show Mon. or Tue.)

Tickets: hairthemusical.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Don’t Let Me Eat My Babies

■ Bizarre and hilarious dark comedy is alive and well in the Melbourne comedy scene if Don’tLetMeEatMyBabies, performed at The Motley Bauhaus by Holly Bohmer, was anything to go by.

In a short season reprising her Melbourne International Comedy Festival show from earlier this year, Bohmer performed an hour of sketch comedy based on a menagerie of quirky twisted characters.

Written by Bohmer herself, these characters came from all walks of life - a Toorak mother, a Lifeline telephone counsellor, a teenage schoolgirl. All were riddled with various degrees of angst and anxiety; being a loner and a loser can be the fate of anyone, no matter where they sit in society’s hierarchy. Full of sharp observations of people’s foibles the writing, for the most part, avoided the trap of patronising or stereotyping them.

In bringing her creations vividly to life Bohmer was the consummate performer. Through her mannerisms, gestures, voice and body work, she launched this ship of fools, a carnival of grotesque yet strangely endearing folk. Moving smoothly and swiftly from as simple a gesture as a raised eyebrow to a Munch-like full-throttled scream, her performance ranged from the subtle to the bombastic.

Credit here must go to director, Matt Jenner, whose work with Bohmer helped shape the show and bring out what was an extraordinary performance befitting an extraordinary array of strange and eccentric characters. Not all of them hit the mark in terms of humour but all were fascinating to watch.

Bohmer is clearly a singular talent and this dark edgy comedy showcased both her writing and performing skills. The combination of these skills in the one performer is rare, as is her keen eye for the absurd and the macabre. Definitely an artist to watch out for. Review by Peter Murphy

● ● Darren Gilshenan (Loyd) and Jessica Clarke (Jane) in Job. Photo:

cast of Hair.

Shows

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

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

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

■ The 1812 Theatre: Speaking in Tongues (by Andrew Bovell) October 2 – 25 at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Dexter Bourke. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au

■ CLOC Musical Theatre: Juliet October

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Auditions

■ The 1812 Theatre: Summer of the Aliens (by Louis Nowra) October 4 at 2pm; October 6 at 7pm at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Liam Mitchinson. Audition bookings: mr_mitchinson@hotmail.com or 0455 078 143

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

■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: The Game’s Afoot or Holmes for the Holidays (by Ken Ludwig) October 4 at 2pm and October 7 at 7pm at Lilydale Theatre, Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Lucia Morris. Audition bookings: 0419 585 720 or lucia.morris1@outlook.com Cheryl Threadgold

OTHELLO’S CAST OF 5

■ Director Tanya Gerstle provides us with a judiciously pared down version of Othellowith just five actors in Melbourne Shakespeare Company’s offering.

There is an unflinching intensity afforded by this approach. While the foundational explanation of the relationship between Othello (Christopher Kirby) and Desdemona (Tanya Schneider) has been excised, the unravelling of the relationship and Iago’s manipulation (Dushan Philips) remains extant.

A sense of post traumatic stress disorder has been added in an opening sequence which echoes through the production.

This tension is amplified in the prevailing soundscape (Jack Burmeister) and in a clever set design (Callum Dale) where curtained walkways, once lit, suggest personal and unreconciled inner narratives.

Once established, the dialogue is immediate and conversational, the closeness of the actors to the audience giving greater dimension to the lines.

Emilia (Lucy Ansell) and Desdemona share the uncertainty of coping with troubled men and Bianca (also Lucy Ansell) becomes a tool for Cassio (Matthew Furlani) as he seeks to win back Othello’s favour through the latter’s wife.

Furlani also plays the role of Lodovico rounding out the figure of the state behind the personal tragedy.

The proximity of the audience makes Desdemona’s death compelling. The editing brings to the fore the struggle women in particular had when faced with stereotyping and false accusations.

But Shakespeare’s emphasis is on those same lies that ruin all reputations including that of the dupe Cassio.

Philips makes this resonate as he divulges his schemes and ploys to the audience. By so doing, we become complicit.

Whether this was Shakespeare’s intention or not, the exposition of the argument and the dramatic unfurling was also a feature of the company’s production of Hamlet

Confessions of a Boba Liberalist Entertainment

The cast deliver their lines with a familiarity that make the work accessible creating complex characters with unresolved turmoil.

Shakespeare appeased Renaissance sensibility with justice being meted out at the end but Gerstle’s ending is just as final albeit uncompromising.

Performance Season: Until September 28.

Venue: fortyfivedownstairs, 44 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

Bookings: melbourneshakespeare.com/ othello

Review by David McLean

Trio of Showtimes

■ Many would not know that the eastern side of Melbourne is home to three of Victorian Scouting and Guiding's vibrant showcases titled Showtime

It has been the season where some 350 budding young thespians have hit the stage to perform their original works to the general community and to their peer groups.

Why review the three very local Showtimes? Because they have gone under the radar as far as community theatre is concerned.

Showtimesare no ordinary performances. All three are inspired by the long-running MelbourneGangShow, each spending up to a year in conceptual writing, musical compositions, vocal renditions, choreography and rehearsing and then performing in professional theatres. No mean feat considering all are volunteers.

So first to strut the boards in August at The Round, Nunawading was Camberwell Showtime with its beginnings in 1965.

More Auditions

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: The Great Divide (by David Williamson) October 19 at 2pm; October 20 at 7.30pm at Unit 8, 417419 Warrigal Rd, Cheltenham. Director: Damian Jones. Audition bookings: mordialloctheatre.com.au/auditions-thegreat-divide/ ■ The 1812 Theatre: Clue on Stage (adapted from the Paramount Pictures film by Jonathan Lynn and the board game from Hasbro, Inc.) October 26 at 7pm, October 27 at 6.30pm at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Amy Calvert. Audition bookings: outlook.office.com/book/ AuditionBookings@theatreperson.com Cheryl Threadgold

Camberwell looked to quantity with some 160 cast rather than quality, although there were times there was a connection to the theme of Riffs ‘N Roadblocks. Often the band overwhelmed the cast, who were not helped with head mike failures.

A younger Showtimenow in its 40th year is SouthMetroShowtime, where a group of enthusiastic leaders started SMS against odds in creating the opportunity for young people to gain confidence on stage, self-esteem and learning technical aspects of theatre performance. Their season offering the computer theme of Control+ Alt+ Defeat, was well received.

Last to perform this year’s season was the friendly rival to Camberwell, that of Whitehorse Showtimealso starting in 1965, while performing on line during COVID has just completed their 61st performance at The Round Theatre. Limiting quantity, they exuded quality with the cast of 89, uniformity of choreography, a well devised set and visuals, value scripting, appropriately themed costumes and with many clear vocals gave us The Cosmic Chronicles. All complimented by a well-balanced band of over twenty members.

How does one rank these – Whitehorse Showtimejust ahead of the other two by using the criteria of quality and not quantity, with each Showtimeshowing their community what can be achieved by harnessing the energy and creativeness of hundreds of young people today.

Review by Graeme McCoubrie

Tomas Clifford

Got Stood Up

■ After smash hit seasons earlier this year at Fringeworld and Perth Comedy Festival, the multi-award winning production Tomas CliffordGotStoodUp is being presented in Melbourne from October 1-5 at Solidarity Hall at Trades hall Festival Hub

TomasCliffordGotStoodUpis an original musical comedy cabaret, inviting audiences to join Tomas as he dives into what exactly went wrong leading up to that fateful nightfrom unrequited high school crushes, to obscene attempts at dating and flirting.

Accompanied by live musicians, delusions of grandeur, and the many ghosts of boys who never responded, Tomas Clifford Got Stood Upis a coming-of-age that couldn’t come quick enough, and if history repeats itself - might never show up at all!

Tomas Clifford is a Perth-based composer/ lyricist, cabaret artist, and music theatre performer. With over 10 years of experience, Tomas is passionate about storytelling through music, and values new work in the Australian theatre and cabaret landscape.

Dates: October 1 - 5

Times: 7:30pm (6:30pm on Sun); 60mins

Venue: Solidarity Hall at Trades Hall Festival Hub; Cnr Lygon and Victoria Sts, Carlton

Tickets: $36 General Admission; $30.5 Concession; $30.5 Group Discount (6+)

Book tickets: melbournefringe.com.au/ whats-on/events/tomas-clifford-got-stood-up

Cheryl Threadgold

Other Gods

■ The fantasy genre has seen a leap in popularity in recent years, thanks to being embraced by the Tik Tok generation.

But it is rare that it translates to the stage, so playwright Simon Farley has decided to rectify this by staging his latest play, Other Gods, at the Motley Bauhaus next month as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival

Other Godsis set in a fantasy work with 10 gods and a priest called Tom who is struggling with knowing what his gods want from him.

To complicate matters, he is falling in love with Marina, despite his vow of celibacy, and a young woman in the town is accused of using magic, which is considered by the gods to be the ultimate sin.

So we have witchcraft, star-crossed lovers and a world steeped in folklore, and a priest faced with a decision that will test his relationship with the woman he loves, stretch his loyalties and bring his own sense of self to breaking point.

There is plenty of dramatic meat for the cast to feast on, and Sorab Kaikobad’s Tom and Emily Kruse’s Marina are ready to meet the challenge. The cast also includes Asher Griffith-Jones, Esther B. Ebony and Milijana Cancar.

OtherGodswill appeal especially to fans of ThePrincessBride,ShadowandBone and ShadowHunters

It runs at the Motley Bauhaus, 118 Elgin St, Carlton, from October 6-12. Book tickets at melbournefringe.com.au/what-son/events/ other-gods or call 9660 9666. Julie Houghton

■ Coming to Melbourne Fringe from October 1-5 after two successful Adelaide Fringe seasons and a run during Pride Fest at Qtopia Sydney, Confessions of a Boba Liberalistis an attempt to prove that Nita (Juanita Navas-Nguyen) is in fact not a Boba Liberal and an answer (or not) to the dreaded question “where are you from?”. Audiences will be invited into her world as she recounts moments throughout her life that have been pivotal in her navigation of who she is in a predominantly white society. Is she Asian? Latina? Australian? All of the above? Who gets to decide?

There’s bubble tea and snacks along the way – not just for Nita, she’ll share her food with everyone.

From the school yard, to working in hospitality, to becoming a working artist, audiences are invited to join her on a journey in search for a sense of belonging and connection with the audience.

"Sometimes you just need to talk things through to remember what you forgot you already knew."

Dates: October 1 - 5

Times: October 1-4 October 6pm, October 5 at 5pm (60 mins duration)

Venue: Festival Hub: Trades Hall - Evatt Room

Tickets: $33, conc $27

Bookings: melbournefringe.com.au or call 9660 9666. Cheryl

● ● ● ● Lucy Ansell (Emilia) and Dushan Philips (Iago) in Othello.

Photo: Nick Robertson

● ● Sorab Kaikobad and Emily Kruse

● ● Tomas Clifford

Threadgold

● ● Juanita Navas-Nguyen.

CATO THE WISE

In Memory of

Maxwell Newton

★Opening night for The Barber of Seville will be held at the Regent Theatre at 7.30pm on Friday, October 31.

★The Royal Historical Society Victoria advises that October is History Month.

★Kew Boathouse has been the backdrop for a movie with 60s style outfits and vintage props validating the period set film production scenes. Leo Notarianni was vintage car co-ordinator for this documentary.

★Opening night of Australia’s first digital theme park Dreamskape will be on Sunday (Sep. 21). Dreamskapes are launching at Westfield Knox and Southland

★Love Actually In Concert will be on the big screen at Melbourne Town Hall with the Australian Stage Orchestra at 3.30pm on Sunday, December 21, and 2pm on Monday, December 22.

★A Commemoration in Concert is a special twilight 5pm event on Sunday, November 9, at the Shire of Remembrance, featuring stirring performances by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Chorus and the Royal Australian Navy Band Melbourne

★The Australian Communications and Media Authority has found 7mate breached classification rules during the broadcast of a fishing show that included highly inappropriate comments about domestic violence.

★The cast of The Neil Diamond Movie: The Musical will be announced on Thursday next week (Oct. 2) at the Princess Theatre.

★A multilingual production, The Ship , supported by the Melbourne Fringe Fund, will be staged at Meat Market – The Stables , from October 1-4, at 7.30pm-8.30pm.

★The opening of Ivan Durrant: Cellophane Silks will be at Glen Eira City Council Gallery from 4pm-6pm on Sunday, October 5.

★Melbourne chef Zac Poulier has taken over as head chef at Sage’s Café on the Mornington Peninsula. The café, run by disability services provider Wallara Australia, employs and trains people with disabilities to become part of Victoria’s most in-demand hospitality workforce.

★Cherry Hill Orchards will hold its Blossom Festival from September 24-October 5 at 474 Queens Rd, Wandin.

★Scouts Victoria is holding School Holiday Programs at Altona, Camberwell, Caulfield, Geelong, Brighton, and Lilydale.

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Rourke’s Reviews Entertainment

★Entries for the Woorilla Poetry Prize close at midnight on September 30. The shortlist and winners will be announced in a hybrid presentation event on Sunday November 16 in the Dandenong Ranges

★Artist Ludwina Dautovic invites audiences to experience raw and moving stories behind her acclaimed series Scars of a Woman, opening on Wednesday, October 1, at Wheat, Wine & Whisky, Collingwood.

★Australia's first and only Sondheim repertory company Watch This is presenting a new work Colour & Light: The Art of Stephen Sondheim at Theatre Works, with the final four performances from tonight (Wed.Sat.)

★Australia’s largest free celebration of games culture – returns for another massive year at Fed Square on Thursday, October 9.

★The Playground Project Melbourne shows until Sunday, October 12, at the Incinerator Gallery, 180 Holmes Rd, Aberfeldie. The Gallery space is transform ed into a children’s play takeover with multiple immersive experiences. The exhibition celebrates the history, imagination and possibility of playground design.

★Equity and inclusion consultant Morwenna Collett will host a conversation titled Creating an Inclusive Future. Pianist and composer Nat Bartsch and internationally acclaimed lefthanded pianist Nicholas McCarthy will also appear at the Iwaki Auditorium event on Wednesday, October 22.

★Post Goughists are holding an exhibition from 6.30pm on November 11 in the Lomond Back Room Gallery at 225 Nicholson St, East brunswick. The exhibition continues on December 1.

★Nature educator and bird enthusiast, Kirsty Costa from Weekend Birder, will conduct a webinar titled Discover the Unique Birds of Cardinia Shire at 7.30pm on Thursday, October 2.

★A woman from Dandenong was surprised to learn that a phone call she initially believed related to her click-and-collect order was instead a $200,000 win in a Lucky Lotteries draw.

★Sincerely Yours is the title of a show to be held at 6pm on November 20 at the Clarinda Community Centre, 58 Viney St.

★Kingston Council is planning a Visual Art and Heritage Collections Policy. Consultation is open until September 28.

Fringe Focus Taiwan

■ FringeFocusTaiwan2025 is set for Melbourne with 'boundary-pushing works for audiences and participants of all ages, celebrating the full cycle of life through bold contemporary art' from September 30 - October 19 at various venues.

Now in its sixth year, FringeFocus Taiwanfeatures three works by Taiwanese artists that embody the 2025 Festival theme ActionHeroes, spotlighting groups often overlooked on our stages: the very young, and older adults.

Firstly, Free Steps – Swinging Years by Horse / Su Wei-Chia October 15–18 at the Meat MarketBlackwood Box.

One of Taiwan’s most celebrated choreographers, Su Wei-Chia (General Director of acclaimed contemporary dance company Horse ) brings his visionary project Free Steps – Swinging Years to Melbourne. After creating a “dance of the masses” with nearly 100 older dancers in Taiwan, Su will now collaborate with up to 100 Melburnians aged 65+ through a three-week residency at the Meat Market.

Participants will share their lived experiences through movement workshops that culminate in a largescale public performance. This moving project celebrates the beauty, rhythm and wisdom of ageing bodies, transforming life stories into dance and redefining what it means to be an Action Hero.

Secondly, FreeSteps–GrandCanyon by Horse / Su Wei-Chia October 1 at the Queen Victoria Market, October 5 Fed Square - Power Move, October 9 at the Melbourne Museum. In a duet between dancer and paper, Free Steps – Grand Canyon pushes dance beyond traditional stages and into public space.The work unfolds like a living gallery installation: physical movement becomes sculpture, rhythm becomes landscape, and the dancer’s body converses with material. Founded in 2004, Horse is a leading force in Taiwanese dance, recognised internationally with awards including the Taishin Arts Award (Taiwan’s grand arts prize) and Germany’s Kurt Jooss Preis. Under Artistic Director Chen Wu-Kang and General Director Su Wei-Chia, the company is acclaimed for its fearless creativity and crosscultural projects.

Finally, We Need a Flower by Double and Cross Theatre, October 17-18 at ArtPlay, Birrarung Marr. Taiwan’s pioneering baby theatre company Double and Cross Theatre presents WeNeedAFlower, a gentle and joyful performance for babies aged 0–2 and their families. Choreographed by company founder Tso Han-Chieh – a theatre-maker and mother who established the Taiwan Baby Theatre Lab – the work draws on contemporary and improvised dance techniques to reflect the physical development of babies. Structured around three stages –gravity, bones and future – the performance explores life’s interconnected cycles with tenderness and wonder. Presented at ArtPlay, We Need a Flower offers a poetic, sensory experience for our youngest audiences.

Melbourne Fringe CEO and Creative Director Simon Abrahams says: “FringeFocusTaiwan is one of the jewels of our Curated Program. These works remind us that heroism can be found in every body –from our littlest citizens to our eldest. That’s what Fringe is all about: celebrating the extraordinary in the everyday.”

Spinal Tap II: The End Continues

■ (M). 83 minutes. Opens in cinemas September 25.

Blessedly not as bad as one might have been expecting, this belated sequel to the 1984 cult classic doesn’t come close to hitting the heights of the original.

The main players are back; band members David St. Hubbins (Michael McKean), Nigel Tufnel (Christopher Guest) and Derek Smalls (Harry Shearer) and filmmaker Marty DiBergi (Rob Reiner), while newcomers are new manager Hope Faith (Kerry Godliman) , promoter Simon Howler (Chris Addison) and new drummer Didi (Valerie Franco)

The group, who haven’t played together in 15 years, have to do a reunion concert due to contractual obligation, in New Orleans of all places.

Frictions still remain, but an underlying friendship does keep them going.

The original creative team gently makes fun of the current stream of belated sequels, legacy tours and stars who believe they are ageless, while also knowingly relying on that sense of nostalgia that will bring the 1984 film’s fans back.

They walk a very fine line, but the end result is mildly amusing ( Elton John’s performance is clunky, however), and should send most fans out with a smile on their face, even if they don’t feel fully satisfied.

RATING - ***

The Long Walk

■ (MA). 108 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.

The first of two Stephen King dystopian stories to come to the big screen screen this year (the other being TheRunningMan), this adaptation of the prolific author’s 1979 novel proves to be a surprising success, thanks to a talented cast and crew who are largely able to overcome the potentially cinematically inert premise.

Set in a non-specific time, the story, set in a US structural collapse after a major war (which is never named), centres on an annual game where fifty young men are chosen to ‘participate’ in a televised game where they have to walk until there is only one left.

If contestants fall below three mph, or stop or stumble for any reason, they are given a warning from the small group of soldiers accompanying them.

After three warnings, the person is shot dead, so there is no room for failure.

Overseeing the walkers is The Major (Mark Hamill), delivering the kind of distorted support and patriotic speeches that is sadly being heard around the world. The two main contestants the script concentrates on are Ray Garraty (Cooper Hoffman) and Peter McVries (David Jonsson), whose growing friendship has a ripple effect on those around them, but in very different ways. Though some of the dialogue and elements make it obvious King wrote the novel in the 1970\s (he apparently began writing it in the late 60s), J.T. Mollner’s screenplay does well enough setting up characters and environment, though some may criticise him for stripping things down a little too much.

Francis Lawrence, who helmed multiple entries in the Hunger Games franchise, as well as the underrated Constantine, thankfully presents the scenario with more dramatic weight, and is allowed to be grim and graphic in the treatment and fate of the young walkers.

Helped by a first-rate technical crew, Lawrence is able to present the dour landscape in impressive fashion. Anchoring it all are two excellent performances from Hoffman and Jonsson, who bring a genuine humanity to the material, and are backed by a solid supporting cast, including Ben Wang and Charlie Plummer , while Hamill makes the most of his deliberately showy role.

The Long Walk will not be for everyone, as so much is inevitably fatalistic, but it presents a time, place and mindset that is sadly relevant, based on a book published almost 50 years ago.

This would make a terrific double bill with Kinji Fukasaku’s potent 2000 film, BattleRoyale RATING - ****

The Bad Guys 2

■ (PG). 105 minutes. Now showing in cinemas. After the middling first film went on to become a box-office hit, the Bad Guys are back, and this much more confident sequel is definitely a step up, with sharper humour, a better plot, and a larger, more interesting gallery of characters.

The voice cast are all in good form, the animation is great, while the material successfully keeps young and old entertained, even if the film ends up running a little too long.

RATING - ***

Aaron Rourke

● ● Aaron Rourke

Tapas Bar Home-Made Desserts

Great Range of Cocktails and Mocktails Available.

Teas and Coffees

Don’t

■ If you can remember back to the early days of television, you may recall a program titled People Are Funny which introduced us to American host Art Linkletter

PeopleAreFunnywas a quiz show with comedy stunts and it was in production from 1955 till 1960.

Art Linkletter was born Gordon Arthur Kelly in Canada in 1912.

He was abandoned by his natural parents and adopted by Mary and John Linkletter. In his teenage years he moved to the United States and graduated from San Diego University.

Art began in radio in 1933. He was married to his wife Lois for 74 years and they had five children.

Art Linkletter presented an afternoon program House Party on American television which began in 1952.

Over the years he hosted many television shows. In his career Art interviewed more than 27,000 children on radio and television.

He was a personal friend of Walt Disney and hosted the official opening of Disneyland in 1955.

He was nominated as a Disney Legend and was a Gold Pass holder to Disneyland

Art came to Australia many times and owned a million acres in Western Australia. At one stage he had 60,000 head of sheep on his farm.

He purchased the land for 15 cents an acre in the early 1960s when Harold Holt suggested he should invest here. The property was managed by Australian farmer John Hagon whom

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Whatever Happened To ... Art Linkletter

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

Art regarded as the best his employee in any of the businesses that he owned.

Art published 28 books, including a book based on his experiences in Australia titled ArtLinkletterDownUnder.

He suffered a stroke in 2005 but remained very active.

In later years he was a guest on the television program Larry King Live and toured America giving motivational talks.

Art Linkletter passed away in 2010 at the age of 97 – a remarkable man.

Kevin can be heard on 3AW -

The Time Tunnel - Remember When - Sundays 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

ANNUAL MAYORAL EXHIBITION AT RINGWOOD

Time: the 30th Annual Mayoral Art Exhibition

The 30th Annual Mayoral Art Exhibition raises funds in support of the Bone Marrow Donor Institute, supported by Maroondah City Council and Community Bank Ringwood East and Croydon.

Exhibiting artists have responded to the past, present, future and the passage of time through diverse mediums including painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture; collage and photography.

This year the council celebrates the contribution that funding partner Bone Marrow Donor Institute and thousands of exhibiting artists have made over three decades in advancing medical research.

The vital collective contribution to cancer patients through this work is also, ultimately, time.

Exhibition closes November 8.

Maroondah Federation Estate Gallery 32 Greenwood Ave Ringwood

At Hawthorn

Plural Selves – David Rosetzky

Experience the work of Melbourne-based contemporary artist David Rosetzky in this major retrospective exhibition.

Known for his exploration of the plural self and the diversity of human identity, Rosetzky’s works investigate how individuals perceive themselves in relation to others, often enough intimate, collaboration portraits of LGBTQIA+ marginal identities.

This exhibition features some of Rosetzky’s most iconic works alongside s newly commissioned series that directly engages with the LGBTQIA+ community of Boroondara. Through video installation and photography, Rostovsky creates a compelling dialogue between different generations and experiences, staging personal narratives that consider the evolution of gender, identity and community over time.

Exhibition closes November 1.

★ Opportunity – Ellen McKenna

In every stitch and scuff lies an opportunity to imagine and celebrate preloved fashion.

Ellen McKenna transforms secondhand items from Boroondara’s op shops -denim jackets, leather belts, bags, shirts, and shoes – into vibrant worksofart.

The Arts

She uses digital and painterly expressions to create bold patterns, which she then hand-applies with a paintbrush, breathing new life into these everyday objects.

Exhibition opens September 24 and closes November 8. Town Hall Gallery 360 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn

Bendigo

Overview -Bendigo Art Gallery Collection

Taking a cue from anthropologist Arjun Appadutai’s notion of regimes of value, this display of works from the Bendigo Art Gallery Collection expresses ways in which value has been ascribed and signalled in the Western art tradition.

Historic works, highlight artistic virtuosity, rich ornamentation, and scenes of wealth, from a spectacularly ornamental Meissen vase to the lively exchange depicted in Franz Hochmann’s A Horse Market in a Germanvillage

Selected contemporary works also appear, including recent acquisitions by Shireen Taweel and Ebony Russell.

This Collection display can be found in Abbott Court, built in 1805 and designed by Bendigo architect William Beebe in the grand European tradition (notably the Tate Gallery London) with polished wooden floors, ornate plaster arches and cornices and diffused natural sky-lighting through rooftop lantern towers.

Abbott Court bears the name Richard Hartley Smith (RHS) Abbott, one of Bendigo Art Gallery’s founders and the originator of the RHS Abbott Bequest Fund that continues to support acquisitions of art to the Gallery’s collection today. Exhibition closes November 30. Bendigo Art Gallery 42 View St, Bendigo Peter Kemp

$50,000 first prize

■ The 2025 Bowness Photography Prize has been awarded by the MAPh Foundation to artist Anna Higgins for TwoHorizons (2025).

“This composite image demonstrates technical mastery of both analogue and digital processes, where Higgins works with light and landscape to create an otherworldly experience of Victorian Alpine country,” said a MAPh representative.

“With this image, Higgins aims to ‘challenge conventions of how the landscape is depicted in photography, foregrounding the ephemeral, abstract and painterly qualities of film and light.”

The judging panel, consisting of artist and Bowness Photography Prize winner (2023) Anne Zahalka, Shaune Lakin ( Senior Curator Photography, NGA) and MAPh Director Anouska Phizacklea, selected one winner and two honourable mentions from the field of 50 finalists.

“As we celebrate 20 years of the Bowness Photography Prize, we reflect on the calibre and ingenuity of the artists who have submitted work over the years.

“They continue to shine a light on the possibilities of contemporary photography and its capacity for storytelling and revelation.”

The honourable mentions were awarded to James Tylor for his work Tapa-arrathroughthe landscape 1, 4, 5 and Sarah Rhodes for her work Chamberof projection.

Anna Higgins wins $50,000 and her work will be acquired into MAPh’s collection.

The artist selected for the Wai Tang Commissioning Award will receive $10,000 and the opportunity to exhibit a body of work throughout next year’s Bowness Photography Prize season.

distributed

■ Details of Hulk Hogan's will has been released and the entire $5 million has been left to Nick Hogan, son of Hulk. No mention, no money left to daughter and wife of the infamous wrestler; gossip is there was an ongoing feud.

Rooftop event

■ For the first time the rooftop at the South Melbourne Market will come alive with a Burrito Food Festival. The menu sounds tasty with a selection of grilled Burritos - even burritos drizzled with truffle, and an ample selection of wines and beers to sample. Thursday, October 30 , 5pm-9pm.

Comings and goings

■ After 25 years. Clint Stanway has resigned from his news role with National Nine to move full time to be heard on Nova Radio Alex Cullen has signed a contract with Seven TV to host a 3pm afternoon programmore details to be revealed.

Fun and furry on film

■ Currently being filmed in and around Melbourne is a six-part series Dog Park planned to debut on the ABC early next year. Preview clips look like fun with a touch of heart tugging relationship issues. Celia Pacquola and Leon Ford are the main stars, plus their respective dogs who meet regularly in the local dog park. Hope it's as good as it sounds.

DJ on the mend

● Art Linkletter

Hulk’s Will

● ● ● ● Hulk Hogan

Observer

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer AcrossAcrossDownDown

1. Portion

5. Appliance, ... cleaner

8. Gluttony

11. Coloured-tile design

14. Nit-picker

18. On the sick list

19. The U of IOU

20. Zigzag pattern

23. Chef's garment

24. Scandalous

27. Entice

28. Beeped (horn)

29. Debates

31. Fuzzy leather

32. Crush (fly)

34. Roof edges

36. Fantasise

37. Not even once

38. Toddlers

39. More unfriendly

41. Ardent

44. Certainly

47. Dance

49. Equally balanced

50. Gazed fixedly

52. Bill

54. Recess

56. Restaurant list

58. Throw out of house

60. Most awful

62. Young dogs

64. Rain heavily

66. Egyptian snakes

67. Avoided

70. Measuring rod

71. In control, at the ...

72. Singing voices

73. Finished

74. Cupid's shaft

75. Climbing vegetable

77. Armoured vehicle

79. Dominate (market)

83. Pummelled

85. Unusually

87. Exhaust (supply)

89. Wandering

91. Gratifying

94. Stressed

97. Declare

98. Scenes

99. Questionable

100. Court fine

103. Column

105. Custodian

107. General pardon

110. Pork cut, ... ribs

111. Relaxes

114. Renovate (ship)

116. Frosty

118. Exclusive

120. Expressing contempt

122. Hue

124. Screen collie

126. Vibrated noisily

129. Divides

132. Castle entrance

136. Borders

139. Falsify

140. Quantity of paper

142. Fracas

145. Edit (text)

146. Splendid sight

148. Halt

150. Chopped down

152. Outlook

154. Remain

156. Ticket remnant

157. Become septic

159. Hand-make (jumper)

161. Eiffel Tower city

164. Surplus

167. Essential 169. Slightest

171. Canoodle

173. Happen

174. Periodic

177. Socially excluded 180. Anglican parish priest 183. In an unspecified way

187. Leaps over 190. Pencil rubber

192. Constant

194. Book publicity hype196. Ever

197. Of the sun

198. Musical pace

200. Peace offering, ... branch

201. Male sibling

203. Root vegetable

205. Sport, Rugby ... 207. Willingly 209. Drain

211. Improper

213. Undergarment

215. Powered bike

217. Ambience

220. Portable light 222. Lockjaw

224. Nobleman

227. Recognition

228. Welcoming

232. Kitchen flooring

234. Circuit-breaker

237. Leather strap

239. Golf club

240. Goodbye

241. Warm & cosy

242. Port style

244. Considering 245. Small religious group

247. Booming

250. Stimulates

251. Adversary

252. Type of bee

253. Depart

255. Packing boxes

257. Shattered

260. Skin eruptions

264. Comfort

266. Affixed with spikes

267. Judas' payment, ... pieces of silver

270. Astonish

273. Principles

274. Jetty

275. Craze

277. Not drunk

279. Treadle

281. Seethe

283. In force (of license)

285. Ledger entry

286. Annul

287. Dreary

290. Dries up

291. Follow

292. Salad dressing

293. Mongrel

294. Pose for artist

295. Loathes

296. Paper hanky

297. Sloop or ketch

298. Ice-cream dessert

299. Topic

1. Covering for feet

2. Pained expression

3. Orient

4. Duration of presidency

5. Long narrow prospect

6. Greatest

7. Glove

8. Cheer

9. Ghostly

10. Charismatic

11. Assaulted & robbed

12. Tranquil

13. Bring about

14. Price of passage

15. Aromatic herb

16. Advocate

17. Walrus teeth

21. Body's building blocks

22. Phantom Of The ...

25. Engine booster

26. Befuddle

28. Gently

30. Calming drug

33. Language

35. Compete

38. Toughen (steel)

40. Moral

42. Utter (cry)

43. Location

45. Tidings

46. Wheat tips

48. Guacamole ingredient

49. Furthest limits

51. Dashes

53. Mulish

55. Well-behaved child, little ...

57. Unmoved

59. Relinquish (land)

61. Ready for business

62. Pluto or Earth

63. Suggestion

65. Planned movement

66. * symbol

68. Hard Italian cheese

69. Dentist's tools

76. Likely

78. Much ... About Nothing

80. Fleur-de-lis

81. Jittery

82. Dog, cocker ...

84. Water tank

85. Matures

86. Dozes

88. Wicked

90. Approachable

92. Meeting schedule

93. Diaper

95. Rock or jazz

96. Scope

101. Rainbow shapes

102. Determined individual 103. District

104. Zone

106. Acting sovereign 108. North American deer

109. Prince Edward, ... of Wessex

110. Sluggish

112. TV studio filming area

113. Feminine pronoun

115. Excursion

117. Secretes

119. Pine or palm

121. Notion

123. Unnerve

124. Beach rescuer

125. Caustic

127. Docile

128. High hits

130. The same

131. Cheek whiskers

133. Wonderment

134. Nags

135. Grass colour 137. Deadly poison 138. Fury

141. Keenly perceptive 143. Raise (children) 144. Belonging to whom?

147. Hopeless wish, ... in the sky

149. Mountains

151. Labours

153. Is able to 155. Lovable 157. Room base 158. Bladder

160. Decorate with pictures

162. Tiny particle

163. Creep (towards)

165. Beast of burden

166. Here ..., gone tomorrow 168. French brandy 170. Additionally

172. Loose hood

175. Hanker after 176. Hatchets

178. Slothful

179. Dodge

181. Plant seed

182. Written material 184. Elect 185. Deciduous tree 186. Woodwind instrument 188. Second-hand 189. Suit-maker 191. Regal 193. Speaking to crowd 195. Fixed procedure 196. Ward off 199. Copious 202. Legacy 204. Traitor

206. Female relative 208. Hunger 209. Wound mark

210. Bombard

212. Residences 213. Beat up 214. Current units 215. Interim 216. Camera stand 218. Arm joints 219. Each person 221. Sped on foot 223. Flightless bird 225. Bore diameter 226. On fire 229. Lungs & liver

230. Plagiarised 231. Home (duties) 233. Single thing 235. Acidic

236. Civilian wartime prisoner 238. Honey drink

243. Heavenly spirits 245. Half

246. Blister-like pouch

248. Gambling chances 249. Extinct bird

254. Inaccurate

255. Free from blame

256. Allow in 258. Enigma

259. Serious-minded 261. State further 262. Undulating 263. Four-door car

265. Straddling

268. Pester

269. Minimise

271. Hosiery garment

272. Improvement (in economy) 274. Beg

276. Skilled

278. Fundamental

280. Die down

282. Flour cereal

283. Promises

284. Schoolboys

288. Geological eras

289. Handle

By Rob Foenander

I Want You

■ Three-time Golden Guitar winning duo

Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham return with their latest single, IWantYou-a three-minute distillation of the euphoria and danger of skating on the edge of control with a pounding head and a pulsing chest.

Gritty and unapologetic, the track captures the visceral intensity of desire in the form of a catchy country anthem, says their media release.

Ross is back

■ Aussie rock legend Ross ‘Daddy Cool’ Wilson and the Peaceniks return to the Memo Music Hall on Friday, January 23. Due to overwhelming popular demand, Ross’s 50 Years of Hits Tour extends into 2026 and to over 200 shows making it the biggest tour of his incredible 60-year career.

New for Hazel

■ Melbourne’s Hazel ansd the Thief has released a debut brand new album.

WildflowersInConcrete is a collection of country and folk with the gritty edge of 90s rock that creates a sound that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. It’s further described as a reflection on the raw beauty of Hazel’s lived experiences, solo parenting, mental health struggles, poverty, trauma, and the redemptive power of nature and creativity.

Rob Foenander

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Nell takes over Heide Museum

■ Heide Museum of Modern Art has announced a major exhibition by celebrated Australian artist Nell, taking over the award-winning Heide Modern building, from October 11 to March 8.

Titled FaceEverything, the siteresponsive exhibition will see Nell transform the former home into a vibrant, layered environment populated with more than 85 works from across her 30-year career, including over 50 new works.

Drawing on the domestic history of Heide Modern and its surrounding gardens, Nell reimagines the house as both a home and a nest – a place of shelter, memory and shared experience. Incorporating found household objects alongside natural motifs from the Heide environs, such as birds, snakes, apples, leaves and eggs, she animates the house with tapestries, mosaics, sculptures and intimate works that reference John and Sunday Reed’s desire for the house to be a ‘gallery to be lived in’ – where art, nature and daily life were entwined.

Within this setting, Nell’s works become charged with reflections on life cycles, care, tenderness, gendered labour, animism, pop culture, rock and roll, religion and art history.

Combining everyday materials with meticulous hand-crafted and fabricated forms, she explores the tension between what is slow and precious, and what is fleeting and ordinary.

Nell also explores the opposition and integration of interior and exterior spaces, reflecting archi-

Crossword Solution No 7

tect David McGlashan’s intention for the building to blur the boundaries between house and landscape. Her works speak to both the physical connection between Heide Modern and its natural environment, and to our psychological inner worlds, evoking the constant negotiation between inside and outside, self and surroundings.

Nell said: “For this exhibition my extended family of characters and spirits will inhabit Heide Modern . Together, they hold space for celebration and joy, complexity and grief, and everything in between.

“Throughout my practice I’ve used simple faces—from openmouthed ‘oohs’ in eggs and ghosts to smiley faces in just about everything—as a way to bypass intellect and invite an immediate, emotional response. Like a song that cuts to the heart, for me the simplest artworks go the deepest.

“Ghosts have been a constant presence in my work. They grew out of self-reflection and therapy, and from a desire to acknowledge the shadows in my life rather than push them away. I’m drawn to the places where light and dark overlap, where contradictions can sit side by side”.

Heide Museum of Modern Art Director Lesley Harding said: “We are delighted to have Nell take over Heide Modern with a siteresponsive exhibition that captures the spirit of the place.” Contibuted

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

● ● ● ● Nell at Heide Museum of Modern Art

(Back load Specialist. Conditions apply)

24 HOURS7 DAYS A WEEK

(Scrap bin available)

LOCAL CRICKET 2025-26 SEASON TO START

Amateurs

■ Men’s Premier Firsts. Saturday, October 4. One Day. St Kilda 1st XI v Prahran 1st XI. Northcote 1st XI v Carlton 1st XI. Camberwell Magpies 1st XI v Melbourne University 1st XI. Greenvale Kangaroos 1st XI v Richmond 1st XI. Fitzroy Doncaster 1st XI v Dandenong 1st XI. Melbourne 1st XI v Essendon 1st XI. Geelong 1st XI v Ringwood 1st XI. Kingston Hawthorn 1st XI v Footscray 1st XI. Frankston Peninsula 1st XI v Casey South Melbourne 1st XI.

Men’s Premier Seconds. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Prahran 2nd XI v St Kilda 2nd XI. Carlton 2nd XI v Northcote 2nd XI. Melbourne University 2nd XI v Camberwell Magpies 2nd XI. Richmond 2nd XI v Greenvale Kangaroos 2nd XI. Dandenong 2nd XI v Fitzroy Doncaster 2nd XI. Essendon 2nd XI v Melbourne 2nd XI. Ringwood 2nd XI v Geelong 2nd XI. Footscray 2nd XI v Kingston Hawthorn 2nd XI. Casey South Melbourne 2nd XI v Frankston Peninsula 2nd XI.

Men’s Premier Thirds. Saturday, October 4. One Day. St Kilda 3rd XI v Prahran 3rd XI. Northcote 3rd XI v Carlton 3rd XI. Camberwell Magpies 3rd XI v Melbourne University 3rd XI. Greenvale Kangaroos 3rd XI v Richmond 3rd XI. Fitzroy Doncaster 3rd XI v Dandenong 3rd XI. Melbourne 3rd XI v Essendon 3rd XI. Geelong 3rd XI v Ringwood 3rd XI. Kingston Hawthorn 3rd XI v Footscray 3rd XI. Frankston Peninsula 3rd XI v Casey South Melbourne 3rd XI.

Men’s Premier Fourths. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Prahran 4th XI v St Kilda 4th XI. Carlton 4th XI v Northcote 4th XI. Melbourne University 4th XI v Camberwell Magpies 4th XI. Greenvale Kangaroos 4th XI v Richmond 4th XI. Dandenong 4th XI v Fitzroy Doncaster 4th XI. Essendon 4th XI v Melbourne 4th XI. Ringwood 4th XI v Geelong 4th XI. Footscray 4th XI v Kingston Hawthorn 4th XI. Casey South Melbourne 4th XI v Frankston Peninsula 4th XI.

Sub-District

■ East-West. 1st XI. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Balwyn 1st XI v Noble Park 1st XI. Donvale 1st XI v Taylors Lakes 1st XI. Endeavour Hills 1st XI v Altona 1st XI. Mt Waverley 1st XI v Box Hill 1st XI. Hoppers Crossing 1st XI v Yarraville 1st XI. Spotswood 1st XI v Croydon 1st XI. Werribee 1st XI v Melton 1st XI. Williamstown 1st XI v Bayswater 1st XI. East-West. 2nd XI. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Noble Park 2nd XI v Balwyn 2nd XI. Taylors Lakes 2nd XI v Donvale 2nd XI. Altona 2nd XI v Endeavour Hills 2nd XI. Box Hill 2nd XI v Mt Waverley 2nd XI. Yarraville 2nd XI v Hoppers Crossing 2nd XI. Croydon 2nd XI v Spotswood 2nd XI. Melton 2nd XI v erribee 2nd XI. Bayswater 2nd XI v Williamstown 2nd XI. North-South. 1st XI. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Coburg 1st XI v Preston 1st XI. Kew 1st XI v Moorabbin 1st XI. Plenty Valley 1st XI v Ivanhoe 1st XI. St Bernard's OC 1st XI v Caulfield 1st XI. Brighton 1st XI v Strathmore 1st XI. Elsternwick 1st XI v Malvern 1st XI. Oakleigh 1st XI v Port Melbourne 1st XI. Ormond 1st XI v Brunswick 1st XI. North-South. 2nd XI. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Moorabbin 2nd XI v Kew 2nd XI. Ivanhoe 2nd XI v Plenty Valley 2nd XI. Caulfield 2nd XI v St Bernard's OC 2nd XI. Strathmore 2nd XI v Brighton 2nd XI. Malvern 2nd XI v Elsternwick 2nd XI. Port Melbourne 2nd XI v Oakleigh 2nd XI. Brunswick 2nd XI v Ormond 2nd XI. Sunday, October 5: Preston 2nd XI v Coburg 2nd XI. North-West. 3rd XI. Division 1. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Melton 3rd XI v Brunswick 3rd XI. Preston 3rd XI v Hoppers Crossing 3rd XI. Taylors Lakes 3rd XI v St Bernard's OC 3rd XI. Werribee 3rd XI v Plenty Valley 3rd XI. North-West. 3rd XI. Division 2. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Altona 3rd XI v Strathmore 3rd XI. Kew 3rd XI v Coburg 3rd XI. Spotswood 3rd XI v Williamstown 3rd XI. Yarraville 3rd XI v Ivanhoe 3rd XI. North-West. 4th XI. Division 1. Satur-

days, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Brunswick 4th XI v Melton 4th XI. Hoppers Crossing 4th XI v Preston 4th XI. St Bernard's OC 4th XI v Taylors Lakes 4th XI. Plenty Valley 4th XI v Werribee 4th XI. North-West. 4th XI. Division 2. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Strathmore 4th XI v Altona 4th XI. Coburg 4th XI v Kew 4th XI. Williamstown 4th XI v Spotswood 4th XI. Sunday, October 5: Ivanhoe 4th XI v Yarraville 4th XI.

South-East. 3rd XI. Division 1. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Balwyn 3rd XI v Elsternwick 3rd XI. Caulfield 3rd XI v Malvern 3rd XI. Mt Waverley 3rd XI v Bayswater 3rd XI. Oakleigh 3rd XI v Croydon 3rd XI. South-East. 4th XI. Division 1. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Elsternwick 4th XI v Balwyn 4th XI. Malvern 4th XI v Caulfield 4th XI. Croydon 4th XI v Oakleigh 4th XI. Bayswater 4th XI v Mt Waverley 4th XI.

Diamond Valley

■ Barclay Shield. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Bundoora 1st XI vRosebank 1st XI. Diamond Creek 1st XI v Epping 1st XI. Macleod 1st XI v Heidelberg 1st XI. Riverside 1st XI v North Eltham Wanderers 1st XI. Rosanna 1st XI v Bundoora United 1st XI.

Money Shield. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Banyule 1st XI v Montmorency 1st XI. Eltham 1st XI v Research Eltham Collegians 1st XI. Mernda 1st XI v Greensborough 1st XI. Bundoora Park 1st XI v Lower Plenty 1st XI. Lalor Stars 1st XI v Plenty 1st XI.

Mash Shield. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Dennis 1st XI v Rivergum 1st XI. Laurimar 1st XI v South Morang 1st XI. Lower Eltham 1st XI v Mill Park 1st XI. Thomastown 1st XI v Keon Park CC 1st XI. Thomastown United 1st XI v Hurstbridge 1st XI. Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 1st XI v Panton Hill 1st XI.

B-Grade. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Plenty 2nd XI v Rosanna 2nd XI. Heidelberg 2nd XI v Mernda 2nd XI. Research Eltham Collegians 2nd XI v Diamond Creek 2nd XI. North Eltham Wanderers 2nd XI v Riverside 2nd XI. Montmorency 2nd XI v Banyule 2nd XI.

C-Grade. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Bundoora United 2nd XI v Lalor Stars 2nd XI. Greensborough 2nd XI v Macleod 2nd XI. South Morang 2nd XI v Eltham 2nd XI. Lower Plenty 2nd XI v Riverside 3rd XI. Rivergum 2nd XI v Bundoora 2nd XI.

D-Grade. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Hurstbridge 2nd XI v Diamond Creek 3rd XI. Mill Park 2nd XI v Lower Plenty 3rd XI. Montmorency 3rd XI v Laurimar 2nd XI. Panton Hill 2nd XI v Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 2nd XI. Rosebank 2nd XI v North Eltham Wanderers 3rd XI. Keon Park CC 2nd XI v Bundoora Park 2nd XI.

E-Grade. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Banyule 3rd XI v Thomastown United 2nd XI. Mernda 3rd XI v Lower Eltham 2nd XI. Greensborough 3rd XI v Heidelberg 3rd XI. Riverside 4th XI v Thomastown 2nd XI. South Morang 3rd XI v Dennis 2nd XI.

Eastern

■ Dunstan Shield. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Edinburgh 1st XI v Glen Iris 1st XI. East Doncaster 1st XI v North Balwyn 1st XI. Bulleen 1st XI v Old Carey 1st XI. East Malvern Tooronga 1st XI v Mont Albert 1st XI. Wright Shield. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Deepdene Bears 1st XI v Canterbury 1st XI. Ashburton Willows 1st XI v Surrey Hills 1st XI. Mulgrave 1st XI v Richmond City 1st XI. Heathmont 1st XI v Marcellin OC 1st XI.

A Turf. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Old Carey 2nd XI v Balwyn Saints 1st XI. Ashwood 1st XI v Mazenod OC 1st XI. Mont Albert 2nd XI v Boronia 1st XI. Hawthorn Boroondara 1st XI v Burwood 1st XI.

B Turf. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Canterbury 2nd XI v Deepdene Bears 2nd XI. Richmond Union 1st XI v Heathmont 2nd XI. North Balwyn 2nd XI v East Doncaster 2nd XI. St. Kevins Old Boys 1st XI v Bulleen 2nd XI. C Turf. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two

Days. La Trobe University 1st XI v East Malvern Tooronga 2nd XI. Boronia 2nd XI v Mulgrave 2nd XI. Burwood 2nd XI v Hawthorn Boroondara 2nd XI. Glen Iris 2nd XI v Edinburgh 2nd XI. D Turf. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Surrey Hills 2nd XI vb Ashburton Willows 2nd XI. Richmond City 2nd XI v Mont Albert 3rd XI. Mazenod OC 2nd XI v Ashwood 2nd XI. Marcellin OC 2nd XI v Old Carey 3rd XI. E Turf. Saturdays, October 4 and 11. Two Days. Heathmont 3rd XI v La Trobe University 2nd XI. Balwyn Saints 2nd XI v Deepdene Bears 3rd XI. Hawthorn Boroondara 3rd XI v Marcellin OC 3rd XI. East Malvern Tooronga 3rd XI v Edinburgh 3rd XI. Surrey Hills 3rd XI v Richmond Union 2nd XI.

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

Two Days. North Alphington 1st XI v Glen Waverley 2nd XI. Trinity Willison 2nd XI v Holy Trinity 2nd XI. St. Paul's Oakleigh District 1st XI v Clifton Hill 2nd XI. Toorak Prahran 1st XI v Burwood Unt. Canterbury 2nd XI.

Morn. Peninsula

■ Provincial Firsts. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Mornington 1sts v Pines 1sts. Dromana 1sts v Langwarrin 1sts. Red Hill 1sts v Baden Powell 1sts. Sorrento 1sts v Heatherhill 1sts.

Peninsula Firsts. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Balnarring 1sts v Old Peninsula 1sts. Somerville 1sts v Long Island 1sts. Seaford CC 1sts v Mt Eliza 1sts. Moorooduc 1sts v Rosebud 1sts.

District Firsts. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Rye 1sts v Seaford Tigers 1sts. Crib Point 1sts v Carrum Downs 1sts. Flinders 1sts v Main Ridge 1sts. Boneo 1sts v Carrum CC 1sts.

Sub-District Firsts. Saturday, October 4.

One Day. Frankston YCW 1st v Skye 1sts. Delacombe Park 1sts v Ballam Park 1sts. Pearcedale 1sts v Baxter 1sts. Tootgarook 1sts v Mt Martha 1sts. Bye: Tyabb 1sts.

North Metro

■ Jika Shield. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Preston Baseballers CC 1st XI v Donath CC 1st XI. Camrea Stingrays CC 1st XI v Olympic Colts CC 1st XI. Northern Socials CC 1st XI v Fiji Victorian CC 1st XI.

Jack Quick Shield. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Fiji Victorian CC 2nd XI v West Preston CC 1st XI. Bellfield Bulls CC 1st XI v Strathewen Cougars CC 1stXI. Reservoir Cobras CC 1st XI v Cameron CC 1st XI.

Jack Kelly Shield. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Royal Park Reds 3rd XI v Fairfield CC 1st XI. Ivanhoe Mavericks CC 1st XI v Preston YCW District 1st XI. West Preston CC 2nd XI v Preston Baseballers CC 2nd XI.

Ringwood District

■ A-Grade. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Wonga Park 4XI v St Andrews 4XI. South Croydon 3XI v Wantirna South 3XI. Mooroolbark 3XI v Heatherdale 3XI. Powelltown 1XI v Norwood 4XI.

B-Grade. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Templeton 3XI v Mooroolbark 4XI. Warrandyte 4XI v Coldstream 2XI. South Warrandyte 3XI v Kilsyth 4XI. Heathwood 3XI v Mt Evelyn 3XI. Bill Wilkins Cup. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Kilsyth 1XI v Mooroolbark 1XI. Vermont 1XI v Mt Evelyn 1XI. Wonga Park 1XI v Warranwood 1XI. East Ringwood 1XI v Bayswater Park 1XI. Heatherdale 1XI v Wantirna South 1XI.

C-Grade. Saturday, October 4. One Day. North Ringwood 4XI v Chirnside Park 4XI.

Croydon Ranges 4XI v Healesville 3XI. St Andrews 5XI v Wantirna 1XI. East Ringwood 4XI v Warrandyte 5XI.

D-Grade. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Mooroolbark 5XI v Norwood 5XI. Lilydale 4XI v Yarra Junction 3XI. Wandin 2XI v Croydon Ranges 5XI. Warranwood 4XI v Heatherdale 4XI. David Beatty Shield. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Yarra Glen 1XI v Wandin 1XI. Norwood 3XI v Seville Burras 2XI. Mt Evelyn 2XI v North Ringwood 3XI. Bayswater Park 2XI v Montrose 3XI. Don Smith Shield. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Kilsyth 3XI v Hoddles Creek 1XI. Ainslie Park 3XI v Warranwood 3XI. St Andrews 3XI v Wonga Park 3XI. Warrandyte 3XI v Croydon Ranges 3XI.

E-Grade. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Wonga Park 5XI v St Andrews 6XI. Mt Evelyn 4XI v Vermont 3XI. Warrandyte 6XI v Yarra Glen 2XI. Montrose 5XI v Ainslie Park 4XI. F-Grade. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Warranwood 5XI v Mt Evelyn 5XI. Lusatia Park 3XI v Boronia Hawks 4XI. Croydon North 3XI v Wonga Park 6XI. North Ringwood 5XI v South Croydon 4XI.

G-Grade. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Kilsyth 5XI v Seville Burras 3XI. Bayswater Park 3XI v Montrose 6XI. Vermont 4XI v Templeton 4XI. Wantirna South 4XI v Chirnside Park 5XI. H-Grade. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Wantirna 2XI v St Andrews 7XI. Heatherdale 5XI v Norwood 6XI. Hoddles Creek 2XI v Mooroolbark 6XI. Healesville 4XI v Warranwood 6XI.

I-Grade. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Croydon Ranges 6XI v Warrandyte 7XI. Warranwood 7XI v Heathwood 4XI. Mt Evelyn 6XI v Ainslie Park 5XI. Wonga Park 7XI v Bayswater Park 4XI. Ian Spencer Shield. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Wantirna South 2XI v Heatherdale 2XI. South Warrandyte 2XI v Chirnside Park 2XI. Heathwood 2XI v Vermont 2XI. Coldstream 1XI v East Ringwood 3XI. Mooroolbark 2XI v St Andrews 2XI.

J-Grade. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Wandin 3XI v Croydon North 4XI. Templeton 5XI v Powelltown 2XI. St Andrews 8XI v Eastfield 3XI. Yarra Junction 4XI v Wantirna 3XI.

John Springett Shield. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Croydon North 2XI v Eastfield 2XI. Montrose 4XI v Lusatia Park 2XI. Chirnside Park 3XI v Healesville 2XI. Yarra Junction 2XI v Lilydale 3XI.

K-Grade. Saturday, October 4. One Day. South Warrandyte 4XI v Yarra Glen 3XI. Chirnside Park 6XI v Wonga Park 8XI. Seville Burras 4XI v Yarra Junction 5XI. Heathwood 5XI v Warranwood 8XI.

Lindsay Trollope Shield. Saturday, October 4. One Day. St Andrews 1XI v North Ringwood 1XI. Croydon Ranges 1XI v Montrose 1XI. South Croydon 1XI v Norwood 1XI. Lilydale 1XI v Ainslie Park 1XI.

Pat Meehan Shield. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Templeton 2XI v Wonga Park 2XI. Warranwood 2XI v Lilydale 2XI. Eastfield 1XI v Kilsyth 2XI. Lusatia Park 1XI v Croydon Ranges 2XI.

Steve Pascoe Shield. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Norwood 2XI v South Croydon 2XI. Ainslie Park 2XI v East Ringwood 2XI. North Ringwood 2XI v Croydon North 1XI. Montrose 2XI v Warrandyte 2XI.

Stuart Newey Plate. Saturday, October 4. One Day. Healesville 1XI vHeathwood 1XI. Warrandyte 1XI v Yarra Junction 1XI. Chirnside Park 1XI v Templeton 1XI. Seville Burras 1XI v South Warrandyte 1XI

South-East

■ Longmuir Shield. Saturday, October 11. One Day. East Sandringham 1 v Washington Park 1. Bentleigh Uniting 1 v Bentleigh ANA Kingston Heath 1 v Brighton Union 1. Le Page Park 1 v West Bentleigh 1.

■ Pullen Shield. Saturday, October 11. One Day. East Bentleigh Central 1 v Diamond 1. Melbourne Wanderers 1 v Mackie 2. Elwood 2 v Cluden 2. Brighton Union 2 v Kingston Heath 2.

DOUBLE FOR DANNY O’BRIEN Harness Racing

■ Stawell commenced the week on Monday September 15 with an interesting seven event card, the highlight being a double to Armstrong trainer Danny O’Brien with a pair of three year olds – Rock N Roll Heaven-Melody Stride gelding King Kasey taking the Stawell AG Horse and Pet Maiden Pace and Rock N Roll World-Nothing Else Matters filly Rocknroll Willow the Gateway Security Pace, both races over 1785 metres with ‘Hall Of Famer’ Kerryn Manning driving both.

King Kasey making his third race appearance led throughout from the pole to account for Maggie Moth which trailed from inside the second line using the sprint lane and a deathseating Denver Man who battled on gamely. The margins 1.9 metres by a nose in a mile rate of 1-57.6, while Rocknroll Willow was tough after racing exposed from gate six to record a 1.3 metre victory ahead of Tellmeboutit (gate three) which galloped away doing a miraculous job to trail the winner. Shadowlandz (gate five) after racing three wide for the last lap from mid-field was third a head back, The mile rate 1-58.2.

■ Quaddie punters endured a tough start to both the final leg of the early quaddie and first leg of the regular one when Koorah co-trainers Shaun and Jason McNulty’s 5Y0 Bettors Delight-Christy Breanna gelding Outmazing led throughout with Sean O’Sullivan in the sulky to land the 1785 metre Stawell Times News Pace at odds of $32.70 on the fixed odds market and $18,00 on parimutuel.

Allowed to run along all of the way from gate five, Outmazing who’s last victory was just under two years ago at Ballarat couldn’t be caught, greeting the judge easily by 8.6 metres in advance of Celestial Zodiac (three pegs from inside the second line) and Eastbro Kozzy (one/three from the extreme draw. The mile rate a brilliant 1-55.6 for that grade. Just for interest, the early quaddie returned $2689.60 while the main quaddie paid $2114.70.

■ Bolinda trainer Brent Lilley continued his profitable run from last week when 5Y0 Royal Aspirations-Makarewa Jill mare Frosty Girl returned to form in thr 2180 metre Ecycle Solutions Trotters Handicap.

Driven by Chris Alford, Frosty Girl settled three back in the moving line from 10 metres as the favourite Ataboy Charlie led easily from the pole.

Still travelling strongly approaching the final bend only to go off stride losing all chance allowing Old Dominion which had raced exposed to stride clear, however the tough trip told with her being grabbed over the concluding stages by Frosty Girl and Countess Chiron (10m) which after galloping wildly shortly after the star and tailing out, came charging home in-between runners from last on the pegs to just fail by 1.3 metres, with Old Dominion third a half neck away. The mile rate 207.1.

■ Old timer Kempseys Delight, a 12Y0 gelded son of Bettors Delight and Romador trained locally at Concongella by Ken Taylor Jnr and raced by the Tayor’s chalked up his 16th success in 262 outings by leading throughout with James Herbertson in the sulky to gain the day by 5.3 metres over Sir Nippa (one/two from inside the second line) which ran home late out wide. My Darling Devine (gate 3) battled on for third 3.4 metres back after racing exposed. The mile rate 2-00.1.

Surprise winner

■ A surprise winner at Shepparton’s regular Tuesday fixture was Wangaratta part-owner/ trainer Sharon Hahne’s 9Y0 Mach ThreeShesallyank gelding Luverboy in the Grenada Standardbreds Pace over 1690 metres. With Chis Alford in the sulky, Luverboy settled mid-field in the moving line from gate five as polemarker Follow The Eclipse led before being passed by Kalkadoon Dreaming outside him approaching the final bend, Luverboy at odds of $31 after trailing Wingate Guy forward with a three wide trail moved up strongly and ran home best to prevail by 4.9 metres over Kalkadoon Dreaming ($3.20 fav), with another roughie Lorimermajor ($51.00) steaming home late out wide when extricated from a pocket back along the markers on turning for third 2.2 metres away. The mile rate 157.4.

■ Junortoun part-owner/trainer Larry Walls has 3Y0 Rock N Roll Heaven-Gallifrey Mystique gelding Assigned racing in great heart at present, bringing up his second success in three starts to date by taking the 2190 metre Crowbar Demolitions Pace. Favourite at his previous two starts (one win – one second),

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker

Assigned with James Herbertson driving was neglected in the betting on this occasion starting at $11 from outside the front line and going back to the rear as poleliner Delightful Miki led.

With a number of moves being made and positions changing, I Am On The Run (one/ two from gate three) went forward with a rush to stride clear at the bell.

Making ground swiftly in the last lap, Assigned with full steam up angled five wide on the home turn and motored to the wire, recording a 1.4 metre victory over Delightful Miki along the sprint lane which ran on when clear. Rolinginthedeep (three wide last lap) fropm the extreme draw was third 2 metres away. The mile rate 1-59.5.

■ Cobram’s Adam Rudd combined with Ellen Tormey to capture the 1690 metre Goodfellows Car & Truck Hire Pace with Elated, a 6Y0 Hes Watching-Bliss gelding driven by Leigh Sutton in a 1-57.8 mile rate.

Settling one/two from inside the second line with Whatta Ya Up Taa and Nathan Jack leading from gate two, Elated received a sweet three wide trail forward in the last as Anakin (three pegs from gate two on the second line) had popped into the one/one spot on the final bend.

Joining the pacemaker on turning, Elated raced clear only to be tacked in earnest by by Anakin and in a two hose battle, Elated gave his all to get the judges nod by a half head, with Coral Cays (gate five) after following the weakening leader using the sprint lane for third 4.8 metres away.

Action aplenty

■ Bendigo raced on Wednesday and both on course patrons and Sky Channel viewers could be excused for thinking that there were speed incentives and lap prizes on offer during the night with action aplenty in almost every race on the most competitive program seen in ages.

Local Strathfieldsaye trainer Julie Douglas scored a big victory with former South Australian Rock N Roll Heaven-Ruby Slippers gelding Jet To Heaven in the 2150 metre Poster Boy With 2Y0 Colt Of The Year 3Y0 Maiden Pace.

Driven by Tasmyn Potter, Jet To Heaven raced by Peter Cole and starting from the extreme draw settled near last as Major Bye held the inside running from the pole before handing over to Sweet Louanne (gate five) shortly after.

Looking for a short lived breather, Sweet Louanne was tackled strongly by Feng Shui Magic which had galloped away from gate three on the second line before rushing forward racing for the bell to take over for the final lap.

Biding his time at the rear, Jet To Heaven commenced a forward move off a three wide trail in the last lap before angling six wide on the home turn.

Showing a great turn of speed, Jet To Heaven dashed away on turning to record a most impressive 4.7 metre victory over Sweet Louanne along the sprint lane after being shuffled back, with Random Mahoney a stablemate of the winner running on late after being checked at the start third 1.2 metres away. The mile rate 1-58.8.

■ Charlton trainer John Tormey’s Bendigo stable provided above average 3Y0 SlyvalleySullanders Pride gelding Karbine to land the 2150 metre Pastor Stephen @ Llowalong Farms Trotters Mobile in a mile rate of 2-00.7. Driven by Jack Laugher, Karbine wasn’t pushed early from gate three on the second line as rank outsider Sonnyboy led from gate three.

Gaining a three wide trail home from five back in the moving line on the back of both That’s Your Opinion (one/two from inside the second line) and Rakero Warrior (one four from gate four second line) which sprinted sharply to lead on turning, Karbine finished at a great rate to record a 5.8 metre margin over Rakero Warrior in a fast mile rate of 2-00.7. Courages Law (extreme draw) came from last on turning for third 5.5 metres back.

■ Avenel trainer David Harris has 4Y0 Bettors Delight-Ultimate CC gelding Cee Cee Lou racing in rare form at present, bringing up his fifth victory in 30 outings (two in succession) when saluting the judge in the 1650 metre Soho Tribeca – Son Of The Great American Ideal Pace.

With in-form youngster Luke Dunne in the sulky, Cee Cee Lou starting from the extreme draw settled four back in the running line as Michen Roy (gate three) crossed Starzinhereyes (gate four) which had crossed polemarker Skyfall Benchmark.

Going forward three wide solo to race exposed for the final circuit, Cee Cee Lou showed a great will to win in the straight to wear down Michen Roy and score by 2.5 metres. Chirripo (gate three second line) ran on late from midfield for third 5 metres away. The mile rate a sizzling 1-54.3.

No stranger

■ Stawell trainer/driver Jason Ainsworth is no stranger to long shot winners and did it again at Ballarat on Thursday when 9Y0 Rock N Roll Heaven-Lady De Beau gelding Amore Rock ($41.00) scored in the 2200 metre DGS Accounting Pace.

Starting inside the second line, Amore Rock was quickly eased into the running line midfield as Sassyola was best away from the pole with Ryta (gate five) outside her and Montana Pride (gate seven) three wide all vying for the front running, however Sassyola retained the lead with Ryta racing roughly and veering wide while Montana Pride was able to continue and take over.

The race complexion changed racing for the bell when Ryta pushed on to cross Montana Pride in a race where the tempo was slick with Montana Pride easing out of the race with a flat tyre.

It was then that Amore Rock went forward three wide and despite racing wide for the rest of the journey, did best to gain the day by 7.4 metres over Carramar Titmus (three pegs from gate two) which raced roughly throughout before running on late. Im Wesley ran on late out wide from five back in the running line for third a head back. The rate 1-56.7.

■ Beeac trainer Courtney Slater combined with Josh Duggan to land the Millers Construction Trotters Mobile over 1710 metres with Emmwallen, a Majestic Son-Idle Lea 4Y0 gelding who registered his third success in 10 starts to date.

Going forward from gate two, Emmwallen had little difficulty in crossing Hes Themightyspin inside him and proceeded to lead throughout, accounting for Artigas (gate five) which had been trapped wide before joining the pacemaker and looking the likely winner as the pair went head and head to the wire only to go off stride in the dying stages, but still held second 1.7 metres away. Local No Telling Heather (extreme draw) made up plenty of ground from four back in the moving line last lap for third 3.5 metres away. The mile rate 1-58.

■ Dunnstown’s David Murphy very smart 6Y0 Captaintreacherous-Valiant Sue mare was back in the winners circle with a strong performance to take out the Bomitali Construction Trotters Mobile over 2200 metres.

Driven by David, Perfidious Sue did it tough, but did it well after racing uncovered from gate six for most of the journey outside the poleline pacemaker Kyvalley Anthony. Taking over on turning with Tictok (one/ two from the extreme draw) three wide joining in, Perfidious Sue showed great fighting qualities to reach the post a nose clear of Tictok in a thrilling finish. Majestic Tooth (gate three) after trailing the leader was third 8.9 metres back. The mile rate 1-59.5.

■ Smart Soho Tribeca-Golden Valour three year old gelding Golden Tribe second up since May showed his qualities when taking the 1710 metre Podium Money Pace.

Trained at Bannockburn by Tom Rundle for a host of owners including himself, Golden Tribe driven by Lochie Cook went forward at the start from gate five only to go off stride running into the first turn allowing pole

Sulky Snippets Sulky Snippets

This Week

■ Wednesday – Bendigo, Thursday –Kilmore, Friday – Melton, Saturday – Melton, Sunday – Cranbourne, Monday –Maryborough, Tuesday – Mildura/ Shepparton.

marker Topsies Bling to retain the lead. Regaining his gait rather quickly, Golden Tribe settled one/one momentarily before again going forward to stride clear at the bell and once there, was never going to be beaten, scoring easily by 13.8 metres in a rate of 1-55.8 from Jimmy Breeze (gate three - one/one) and Rockella (inside second line - one/three) who was two metres back.

■ Handy Sunshine Beach-La Joconde 5Y0 gelding Ranger Rick trained at Hamilton by David Lewis chalked up his 6th victory in 16 outings when a tough victor of the 2200 metre Colliers Ballarat NMW Pace.

Driven by Jackie Barker, Ranger Rick despite racing in the open from gate six outside Rosberg (gate four) had too much quality for his rivals, registering a 1.6 metre margin from the roughie A Rocknroll Jet (one/one) in a mile rate of 1-57.8. Rosberg was third a nose away after just failing to see out the trip.

Hall of Fame

■ Just a reminder that HRV’s ‘Victorian Hall Of Fame’ induction dinner presentation will be held at Melton Entertainment Park on Saturday October 4 during the race meeting. For the first time this glittering function will be open to the public but spots are filling fast. To make your booking contact HRV functions (8378 0200) – the cost $55pp including a two course dinner and selected deserts. Who will be inducted this year?

Len Baker

Latest News Rushworth death

■ Emergency services responded to a crash in Rushworth on Friday evening (Sep. 19). It is believed a motorcyclist was traveling on Girgarre-Rushworth Rd around 7.30pm. The motorcycle veered off the road and struck a tree.

CPR was commenced by passersby but male rider died at the scene.

Exact circumstances of the crash are being investigated.

E-bike charges

■ A major crackdown on e-bikes has resulted in hundreds of intercepts and fines for riders caught breaking the rules.

Operation Consider, which launched last month, saw members from Victoria Police’s State Highway Patrol and Solo Unit team up with North West Metro Bike Patrol in Melbourne’s CBD to enforce e-bike compliance and safety.

Police patrolled on foot and using bicycles, motorcycles and highway patrol vehicles to target riders using overpowered and illegal e-bikes.

A total 274 road users were intercepted during the operation in August including 135 e-bikes, 30 bicycles and 17 petrol motorcycles.

While not specifically targeted as part of the operation, police also intercepted 71 cars, 18 e-scooters and three pedestrians identified as not complying with road safety rules.

A concerning 52 per cent of e-bikes intercepted were overpowered, deeming them unregistered vehicles, with 44 per cent of riders classed as unlicensed riders.

An overpowered e-bike is considered a motorcycle and subject to the same road rules as other motorcycles including licencing and registration.

Victoria Police

● ● ● ● Outer East Division 1 Reserves: 2025 premiership winners. ● ● The Rebels ‘faithful’ made their way to Yarra Glen to support the team.

● How sweet it is! Brandon Kapakoulakis.

● ● Tom McKinlay takes control in front of the crowd at Yarra Glen.

● ● ● ● Bart Wallace kicked two goals for the day.

● ● ● ● Nathan Dundas sets the pace for the Rebels Reserves.

● ● Fans of Jake Steyger

● ● Toby Ward added to Alexandra’s colour of the day agianst Seville.

Peter Isaacson AM, DFC, AFC, DFM

■ Distinguished military hero and successful businessman Peter Isaacson died on April 7 at the age of 96.

Peter Isaacson, of Toorak, owned the ‘Bindaree’ property on Whittlesea-Yea Rd, Flowerdale, for several decades.

He was publisher of the Melbourne Observer newspaper from 1977 to 1989.

Peter Isaacson Publications was also the printer, under contract to Long Family Newspapers, in 199192, of weekly papers at Yea, Whittlesea, Kinglake, Seymour, Nagambie and Kilmore.

He took an active interest in the doings of the Yea, and later Murrindindi, municipalities.

Peter Isaacson was born in London on July 31, 1920, moving to Melbourne at age six.

He was the son of Arnold Isaacson (son of Solomon Kramer), and Caroline ‘Lynka’ (nee Jacobson), born in Vienna, whose father Emile was Dutch, and whose mother Bettina Lipmann, was French.

Arnold Isaacson’s family were in Melbourne: brothers Isidore, Michael, Alex and Abel; and sisters Rebecca and Celina.

Arnold and Lynka married at the Dalston Synagogue, North London, in March 1919. The bride, 19, was 19 years younger, than her husband, who became a manufacturers’ agent, later a printing sales representative, travelling throughout country Victoria.

Peter Isaacson’s planned enrolment at the Geelong Grammar School did not proceed, partly because of the school fees, partly because of ‘Uncle Alex’s’ objection to morning prayers.

Peter attended various state schools in Elwood and Brighton, briefly at Wesley College, and then until age 16 at Brighton Grammar School.

He became the Company Quartermaster Sargeant in the School Cadets.

Peter Isaacson became a messenger boy at The Age newspaper, where his mother worked as Women’s Editor on the weekly Leader rural newspaper. His starting salary was 19 shillings and 6 pence ($1.95) per week.

He attended Dr Hall’s Coaching Academy and matriculated. He enrolled at Melbourne University, doing his study prior to starting at The Age each weekday at 2pm.

At age 18, Peter left The Age and joined Paul Freadman at Coronet Publishing and Paul Freadman Advertising, selling programs and book-

lets sponsored by charities, local councils and other organisations.

He met Anne McIntyre, 16, on vacation from Toorak College, Mt Eliza, at The Milky Way meeting place in Lt Collins St. They were to marry in 1950.

In the middle of 1940, Peter Isaacson was selected for the RAAF Air Crew Reserve. He was called up later in the year for initial training school, then to Narrandera for elementary flying training. He trained in Ottawa, Canada, as fighter pilot.

His work with Bomber Command, England, from 1942 is detailed in the biography Pathfinder by Denis Warner.

Warner quoted Isaacson: “You can’t be too emotional about things like bombing the Germans or Italians. You don’t want to dwell on it. I didn’t. Very few of us did.

“That doesn’t mean that you are lacking in basic sympathies, but you are there to do a job. If you didn’t do it to them, they would do it to you.”

He argued that Germany had started the war, and it was Germany that first bombed open cities.

Peter Isaacson graduated from Halifaxes to Lancasters. A Lancaster’s expected life was 15 to 16 operations. In their dozens of flights they had many ‘close shaves’.

Isaacson and crew were given the task of flying a Lancaster from London to Australia, where it was used to sell war bonds.

‘Q for Queenie VI’ received nationwide publicity as pilot Isaacson flew under the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

After the end of World War II, Peter Isaacson gained special Air Force permission to stand as the Liberal Party candidate for Prahran.

He was defeated by 47 votes. He says that being beaten was the best thing that ever happened to him. He would never have started a business if he had won the seat.

Demobbed, he bought the Elsternwick Advertiser suburban newspaper business, using £400 in deferred pay to go into business.

As he did many times in his business career, Isaacson enlisted the help of his cousin Maurice Sloman for working capital.

“So here I was, sitting in this two by two office all by myself at a desk borrowed from Anne’s father, writing the news, selling the advertising

“I was the proprietor, editor, reporter, sub-editor, advertising salesman, circulation supervisor, office manager and messenger boy.”

To work his way around newsprint rationing, Isaacson added the Caulfield Advertiser and Carnegie Courier to his list, which tripled his supply.

Later in 1947, Peter Isaacson took over the Southern Cross suburban newspaper. The Herald and Weekly Times Ltd injected working capital into the fledgling business.

He took on involvements with the South Melbourne Record and Camberwell Chronicle newspapers.

He became involved in weekly local papers, part of Gippsland Newspapers, which published the Morwell Advertiser, Moe Advocate and Yallourn Livewire. He was part of the conglomerate that wa successful in winning the GLV-10 television station.

His cousin, Maurice Sloman, friends with Prime Minister Robert Menzies, was also part of the group

came to an inglorious end. Peter Isacson purchased the business for $425,000.

Denis Warner wrote: “Isaacson described it as semi-pornographic rag, put together with scissors and paste from a sheaf of lurid overseas publications.”

The Isaacson business for some time continued to accept brothel advertising. He later moved the paper more up-market. Accounting advisor Ron Pitcher pleaded in later years for Isaacson to close the Observer business because of its ongoing financial losses.

In 1989, the decision was made for him when Rupert Murdoch announced that he would start two Sunday newspapers: the Sunday Sun and the Sunday Herald; and The Age started its own Sunday edition. Isaacson closed the Observer. It was later re-commenced as a midweek paper by Local Media.

Isaacson also tried the Sunday Territorian business in Darwin, but was thwarted by Murdoch starting an identically named paper.

In the early 1990s, the O’Reilly family’s APN group took over the Isaacson publishing business that was recording group revenues of $35 million, but not making returns at international best standards.

Isaacson remained as a Director for some time, but the APN group took his company in unfamiliar directions. Years later, he made a diary note that he lamented what APN had done to his business.

In his late 70s, 80s and 90s, Peter Isaacson kept up his community interests. He was a Trustee, Chairman and Life Governor of the Shrine of Remembrance. He was a Director of companies including Balmoral Village and Henry Bucks.

that won the BTV-6 licence at Ballarat.

Sloman was also part of a consortium to buy land and finance a building in Prahran to house the growing publishing business.

Other ventures included the Sunday Free Press joint venture with Progress Press at Chadstone, International Travel, and This Week In Melbourne (with sister publications in Sydney, Canberra, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Newcastle, Cairns and Darwin).

Later, the Daily Commercial News business was purchased.So too the Kompass Industrial Register directory of business listings.

Expansion followed with the Asian Business Press joint venture.

In 1977, Maxwell Newton’s era of the Melbourne/Sunday Observer

He was decorated with the Medal of the Order of Australia ‘for services to the print media and the community”. He was a leader with the Cairnmillar Institute.

Peter Isaacson’s post-nominals also included the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Force Cross and Distinguished Flying Medal.

Anne Isaacson died last year. His sister Barbara ‘Joan’ Beck died on the same day as Peter (April 7). He is survived by sons Tony and Tim and their families.

A memorial service will be held in May.

Peter Isaacson was a tough businessman, described as having a “heart of gold”. He could be a bully, and/or an angel.

He lived by a maxim: “when in doubt, do the courageous thing”. His courage was often extraordinary. -

Ash Long

● ● Peter Isaacson spent some of his retirement time at his ‘Bindaree’ property on Whittlesea-Yea Rd, Flowerdale

● In his 20s as an Air Force military hero

alleged retirement

● War-time Air Force pilot

● ● Anne and Peter Isaacson married at The Registry Office

■ Distinguisghed military hero and successful businessman Peter Isaacson died on April 7, 2017, at age 96.

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Free non-commercial classified advertising is available for individual readers, selling iitems. Your ad can be up to 40 words. This service is available at the sole discretion of the Editor. Ads will appear for up to 4 weeks. Free ads are not available to businesses or organisations. Deadline: 4pm Fridays prior to Print Edition. You can lodge your Free Ad by:

• WEB: www.AdvertiseFree.com.au

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• POST: Mail the form (available in this newspaper) to PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095. Free Ads will not be accepted by phone.

SOMEADVERTISINGRULES

• 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.

FREE PHOTO ADS

BRICKS. 100+. Clean, red. Plus halves. $50. Keon Park. 9469 4558. HH-LL

ANTIQUE DRSSING TABLE. 3 mirrors, size: wdith 1.23m, depth 55cm, height 1.82m. Delivery arranged. VGC. $250. Coburg. 0428 130 049. Z-CC

BARBECUE. Weber. With instruction book. Hardly used. New: $369. Sell $1009. Mt Martha 5973 4163. JJ-NN

BATHROOM TILES. To cover 270sq m. EC. $60. Ferntree Gully. 9758 3950. HH-LL

BED. 3-seater and two seater. Red, vinyl. Dark wood trims. VGC. $300. Cranbourne, 0401 898 413. HH-LL

BED HEAD. Wooden. And base. With slats. As new. $80. Whittlesea. 0494 380 264. Z-CC

BED. Electric. King Size. High low. Head comes up to sitting position. Legs raise, bed tilts. 12 months old. No longer needed. Top quality mattress. EC. $3500. Yea. 0409 944 982. LL-OO

BIKE. Lady’s. Purple. Make: Huffey Friction. Complete with helmet and pump and basket. VGC. $120. Pakenham. 5940 5018. LL-OO

BIRD CAGE. Green. 52cm square. as new. $40. Whittlesea. 0494 380 264. Z-CC

BOAT. Savage 12’. 15HP Johnson OB. Trailer. All Safety EQ. Bow canopy. Storm cover. VGC. $1800. Alexandra. 0419 329 264. Z-CC

BOOKS. Large variety. Various authors. $2, or 3 for $5. Heathmont. 0423 720 137. HH-LL

BOOKS. Collection of Mary Grant vintage books. Mostly VGC with dust jack- ets. Offers welcome. Research. 9437 1253. JJ-NN

BOOSTER SEAT. Mothers hoice. Convertible. 6 months to 8 years. VGC. $40. Whittlesea. 0494 380 264. HH-LL

can have a free 40-word ‘For Sale’ ad - plus a single colour photo - in The Local Paper Classifieds to sell their items. Your free ad will appear in all editions of The Local Paper, covering all suburbs of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula, and selected Victorian country areas. Your free ad will appear in up to 4 issues. There are no charges, no commissions. T&Cs apply. Lodge your ad at: www.AdvertiseFree.com.au

CARAVAN. 21’6” 2014 Crusader. Reg till Feb. 2026. Full ensuite, separate shower/toilet, queen bed, a/c heater, TV radio, Gas/Elec. cooktop, micro washing machine, solar panel, large fridge, freezer, new tyres and batteries. many extras. EC. $40,000 ONO. Mount Eliza. 0429 877 964. Z-CC

CARAVAN. 2021. 16ft. Aspire caravan. As new. Air cond. heating, full annexe, double bed, shower toilet, solar panel, TV, tare 1275 kg. Easy ti tow. Light weight EC. $42,000 neg. Whittlesea. 0438 434 413. HH-LL

CARAVAN. Jayco. 2004. Freedom. Single beds, RC/ AC, new tyres, unused porta-potti, m’wave, 3-way fridge, gas & elec. cooktop + grill, 240/12 volt TV and aerial. Reg till Jan 2026. Everything in working order. 1150 kg. Tows great. VGC. $12,500 ONO. Hastings. 0409 645 059. HH-LL

CHAIR. Pink, small, white spots. Suit girl . VGC. $15. Surrey Hills. 0410 626 110, after 5pm best. HH-LL

CIRCULATION STIMULATOR. Clare. VGC. $20. Frankston. 9789 9634 Z-CC

CLARE Wellness Circulation Stimulator. Instruction Manual included. VGC. $150. Frankston. 9789 9634. HH-LL

CLOTH FOOTBALL MASCOT. Footscray Bulldogs. 39cm tall. VGC. $65. Pick-up: Glenroy. 9306 7628 LL-OO

COUNTRY MUSIC. 33rpm. Slim Dustry, Reg Lindsay, Hank Snow, glen Campbell, Sons of the Pioneers, Tex morton, Buddy Willkiams, Hank Williams, Hawking Bros., The Overlanders, The Folk Singer. GC. Various prices. Box Hill South. 9890 7904. HH-LL

DINING SETTING. Midcentury teak. Extension table and 8 chairs. newly upholstered about 6 years ago. EC. Some minoir surface wear. Very heavy table. 6ft, extends to 9ft 4in. VGC. $2100. Donvale. 0410 031 094. JJ-NN

DISHWASHER. Norj. Large.

$360. Grey. Never installed. EC. Alexandra. 0409 470 107.

ENCYCLOPEDIA. Complete set A-Z. GC. $60 ONO. Frankston. 9789 9634. HH-LL

FISHER PAYKEL Fridge Freezer. 8 months old. New. Cost $870, sell $400. Keysborough. Joe, 0402 385 692.HH-LL

FOOTBALL CAPS. Footscray. New. Pick up Glenroy or ost extra cost. $15 each. Glenroy. 9306 7628 LL-OO

FOOTWEAR. Navy woven leather. Diana ferrari. Sandal size 9, worn once. EC. $50. Ferntree Gully. 9758 3950.HH-LL

GARDEN HOSE. 30 metres long. Heavy duty. Good quality, bought at Bunnings. $30. Mt Martha 5973 4163. JJ-NN

GUITAR. Lindsay. Valued at $1000. Can’t play it. Dandebnong North. 9794 6996.

HH-LL

GUITAR AMP. 2’ wide. 2½’ high. Lots of dials. GC. $00. Seymour. 0422 204 977. HH-LL

HEATER. Dimplex. Electric. Portable 7 vane. $90. Frankston. 9789 9634. HH-LL

HEATER. Wood. With flue. Warmbrite. GC. $500. Seymour. 0422 204 977. HH-LL

HEDGE TRIMMER. Honda. HHH25D. 4 stroke. With hour meter fitted. VGC. Bought in Feb. 2022. Has done 20.8 hours. $650 ONO. Pearcedale. 0418 457 588. Z-CC

JAYCO 2004 Freedom Caravan, single beds, RC/ AC, new tyres, unused porta potti, m’wave, 3 way bridge, gas & elec. cooktop and grill, 240/12 volt TV. Aerial. Reg till Jan. 26. Everything in working order. 1150kg. Tows great. VGTC. Hastings. 0409 645 059. Z-CC

LAURA ASHLEY Cotton Queen Coverlet set. Size 220cm x 240cm, plus 2 pillowcases. Pale blue with thin white stripes. Never used. EC. $25. Ashburton. 9885 2203. Z-CC

MOWER. Ozito. Corded. With catcher. lightweight. Paid $149 at Bunnings. Sell $60. Mt Martha 5973 4163. JJ-NN

LINE TRIMMER. Electric. 500 watts. 290mm cut. Little used. GC. Purchase to collect. $10. Doreen. 9717 3465 HH-LL

LOUNGE SUITE. 3 piece. Luxury, light cream leather. Moran pillow type. EC, not used. $4000 (cost $6000). Strathmore. 0419 384 496. JJ-NN

MOTOR HOME.. With two solar panels for lights and air con. Double bed, gas cooker. Holden Rodeo 1998 rego till Feb. 24, 2026. Tour atlas inc. new battery and x bars. History of work completed. 1LB- 2CN. VGC. $19,000 ONO. Alexandra. 0409 470 107. LL-OO

RECORD PLAYER. Radiogram, $25. VGC. Mill Park. 9436 8935. HH-LL

REFERENCE BOOK. Holden Commodore 1978. 42cm x 29cm. $85. Glenroy. 9306 7628 LL-OO

ROLLER DOOR Electric motor. 4 Doors brand. Near new Model 4DR1 v4 with remotes. Still has new stickers on it. EC. $100. Whittlesea. 0419 002 507. LL-OO

SAWS. 5 vintage saws for woodwork. FC. $12. Also frame for manual sharpening, GC. $8. Ashburton. 9885 2203. HH-LL

SCOOTER. Pegasus. Pro. 4 years old. Done 30km only. Like new. $4000 ONO. Melton. 0488 007 395. HH-LL

SEWING MACHINE. Singer. Wrought iron. With marble top. Suit garden setting. Black, needs painting,. VGC, $25. Surrey Hills. 0410 626 110, after 5pm best. HH-LL

PIANOLA ROLLS. Around 50 rolls in all. Many older tunes. GC. $75. Malvern East. 0419 685 666. LL-OO

PHOTO COPIER. $100. Dandebnong North,. 9794 6996. HH-LL

PLUMBING FITTINGS. New. Box, 100m, sew/SW E/Boxes. Box: 100mm, 500mm, elbows, as new. New. $35. yea. 5750 2615. HH-LL

parts. VGC. $1000. Seymour 0419 881 573. N-Q PRAM. Old, child’s col- lectable. GC. $60. Wandong. 041`8 399 261. R-U

PRESSURE WASHER. Karcher. Good working order. little used, complete with operating instructions. Purchaser to collect. GC. $55. Doreen. 9717 3485. HH-LL

RECORDS. 33rpm. Casslical singers. OPaul Robeson, Mobncrieff, Kiri Te Kanwa, Peter awson, Pavarotti, Secombe, Caruso, Peerse, lawrence, Hammond, Bronhill, Sutherland. GC. Various prices. Box Hill South. 9890 7904. HH-LL

STAMP PACKS. New, unopened, from 1970s, 80s. Approx. 200, sell for face value. New. Mill Park. 9436 8935. HH-LL

STATUES. Two garden vintage statues. 1: Greek lady, 66cm. 2: Bashful child, 59cm. 1 x buddha, 43cm, also baby deer snd four plaques. one tortoise, various designs. 10 peices. VGC. $300 ONO. Bittern. 0459 558 055. JJ-NN

STROLLER. City aselkect by Baby Jogger. VGC. $60. Whittlesea. 0494 30 264. HH-LL

TRANIST WHEELCHAIR with seatbelt, footrest and armrests. Lightweight. Cost $279, sell $70. Whittlesea. 0494 380 264. HH-LL

TOYOTA COROLLA. Manual. Roacdworthy condition. VG motor, gear box. Dark blue. RXJ-289. GC. $2000. Box Hill North. 0449 836 907. HH-LL

TWO-PERSON SAW. $90. Mill Park. 9436 8935.HH-LL

WHEELBARROW. $75. Mill Park. 9436 8935. HH-LL

WANTED. Independent Support Provider for NDIS participant in Acheron, near Alexandra. Participant is 20yo male - living independently - loves outdoors,, nushwalks, fishing. Suit experienced male SP , contractor, registered, NDIS screening, refrences. Flexible hours. Immediate start. 0412 224 464. HH-LL WOOD HEATER. Cast iron. GC. $500. Seymour. 0422 204 977. Z-CC

WORKSHOP MANUALS. Holden VR Commodore. Vol 8, 4 and 5,. $220. Kangaroo Groundf. 9712 0337. Z-CC

ANZ Bank Money Boxes. GC. Price negotiable. Will alsoswap. Mill Park. 9436 8935. HH-LL

LAWN

ELECTRIC WHEELCHAIR. ‘Pride Go Mobility Chair’. Hardly used. EC. $1400. Viewbank. John, 0418 583 120. LL-OO

The Local Paper

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Free ‘For Sale’ and ‘What’s On ads are available in The Local Paper to private parties and community organisations. There are no charges, no fees and no commissions. All Free Ads are published at the entire discretion of the Editor. Free Ads: www.advertisefree.com.au

Dave Palmer, Rural Tanks and Garden Beds

Beds Beds Beds G'day folks,

Dave here from Rural Tanks and Garden Beds - where the corrugated curves of Aussie ingenuity meet the good old-fashioned joy of growing your own tomatoes. If you’ve ever wrestled with a wheelbarrow in gumboots or debated whether zucchinis are taking over your life, you’re in good company.

Now, I’ve been rolling galvanised iron since 1989 (back when mullets were cool the first time), and while water tanks are still our bread and butter, it’s the garden beds that have really taken root in recent years.

There’s something deeply satisfying about watching your backyard transform into a patch of productivity - whether it’s herbs for your roast lamb, peas that never make it inside because the kids eat them straight off the vine or a delicious strawberry –its fresh, its home grown and it’s so

Fact File

NAME: Rural Tanks and Garden Beds

ADDRESS: 5 Tebble St, Seymour

PHONE: 5799 0133

WEBSITE: www.ruraltanksandgarden beds.com.au

EMAIL: dave@ruraltanks.com

much more delicious than anything you buy from a store.

So here’s a little something to sweeten the soil: for a limited time, when you buy one of our .42m high galvanised iron garden beds, you’ll get the second one for half price. That’s right—double the dirt, half the hurt. Whether you’re starting small or going full veggie jungle, this is your chance to build a backyard that’s both beautiful and bountiful.

Our garden beds come in a range of shapes, sizes, and finishes, including Colorbond™ for those who like a splash of style with their spinach. And unlike those flimsy stick-on edges you see elsewhere, ours are rolled for safety and built to last. We even offer wicking beds with adjustable water levels—because plants deserve hydration options too.

So, if you’re ready to dig in, come have a yarn with us. We’re not just selling steel—we’re helping Aussies grow, thrive, and maybe even win the neighbourhood tomato contest.

Happy gardening!

- Dave Rural Tanks and Garden Beds www.ruraltanksandgardenbeds.com.au