The Local Paper. Mitchell Strathbogie Edition. Wed., Apr. 2, 2025

$2.5 MIL. PROMISE FOR KALKALLO

■ Jason McClintock, Liberal candidate for McEwen, was joined by S enator Bridget McKenzie to announce that, if elected, a Coalition Government will commit $2.5 million towards building a new community pavilion at the Dwyer St Reserve in Kalkallo

This would be delivered in partnership with Hume City Council.

Mr McClintock said: “This investment addresses demand for new sport and community infrastructure, focusing on the development of a new sporting facility – especially for soccer and cricket - but also serves as a versatile space for community groups”

The new 1,584m2 sport and community pavilion would include:

■ a multi-purpose community room equipped with advanced audio-visual facilities;

■ a fully-functional community kitchen;

■ new female-friendly change rooms and trainer rooms, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all users;

■ multiple equipment storerooms; and

■ a new solar panel array with a storage battery system to ensure energy efficiency and sustainability.

“The Dwyer Street Reserve Community Pavilion will cater to the needs of the local sporting community and promote health, well-being, and social connectedness through sport participation.” Mr McClintock said.

FRUIT FLY RISK GROWS, SAYS MP

■ Nicholls MHR Sam Birrell says the lack of a firm commitment to fund fruit fly control in the Goulburn and Murray valleys poses a significant risk to the $1.6 billion horticulture industry.

Mr Birrell joined more than 50 people at a Queensland Fruit Fly forum in Shepparton

Speakers included Macquarie University’s, Professor Phil Taylor, on Sterile Insect Technique, and Andrew Jessup who was commissioned by Greater Shepparton City Council to do an analysis on the effectiveness of the Goulburn-Murray Valley Fruit Fly Program

“The forum heard that fruit fly numbers, which were largely controlled by a wide area management program, started to balloon again from 2019 when Victorian Government funding was cut by more than 60 per cent,” Mr Birrell said.

•

“The GMV Fruit Fly Management Program has no funding commitment beyond June 2025, and the fear is that Qfly numbers will soar by as much as 600 percent without proper management.”

Mr Birrell , who has a background in agronomy, said SIT is an elementary tool used in the battle against fruit flies: “The industry contributes enormously to the Victorian economy, and the Victorian Government should commit to the funding needed to protect crops.”

● ● ● ● ● Sam Birrell, Nicholls MLA

● ● ● ● Senator Bridget McKenzie

The Local Paper

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2025

EXTON ‘PUT THROUGH HELL’

Local Briefs

Melba Hwy repairs

■ Transport Victoria is making urgent repairs to two landslips on a section of the Melba Hwy in Dixons Creek, approximately 2.5-kms south of the Healesville-Kinglake Rd intersection.

Footy countdown

■ Outer East. Division 1. Saturday, April 5. Yea v Pakenham. Powelltown v Yarra Junction. Belgrave v Warburton-Millgrove. Seville v Yarra Glen. Alexandra: Bye.

■ Goulburn Valley Football League. Saturday, April 5. Mansfield v Mooroopna. Shepparton v Tatura. Echuca v Shepparton United. Shepparton Swans v Benalla. Rochester v Seymour. Kyabram v Euroa.

■ Northern Football League. Division 1. Saturday, April 5. Banyule v Montmorency. South Morang v West Preston-Lakeside. Heidelberg v North Heidelberg. Bundoora v Eltham. Hurstbridge v Greensborough.

Seminar at Alex.

■ A seminar will be held at the Alexandra Showgrounds tomorrow (Thu., Apr. 3) from 8am-10am. The subject will be ‘Farming In Dry Conditions.

The seminar will offer support and advice. Breakfast will be served.

Works continue

■ Works are continuing this April on the Seymour-Avenel Rd bridge in Seymour as part of the Inland Rail project, being delivered by McConnell Dowell

Construction is said to be progressing well, with the new bridge expected to open to traffic during April, subject to weather and site conditions.

Works during this period will include drainage, road barrier installation, line marking and landscaping.

Works will occur between 7am and 6pm Monday to Friday, and 7am to 5pm on weekends. Some noise and construction activity will occur during daylight hours.

‘Irregularities’ claim dates back to Lloyd era

● ● Craig Lloyd, Whittlesea CEO, previously Murrindindi Shire CEO

■ Claims of potential “irregularites” at Murrindindi Council made under qualified privilege by forensic accountant at Garry Angus (see Page One) appear to date to the terms of Chief Executive Officers Livia Bonazzi and Craig Lloyd.

Mr Lloyd, now Whittlesea Council’s controversial CEO, was Chief Executive at Murrindindi Shire from 2018-2020, following on from Margaret Abbey.

Mr Lloyd started at Whittlesea Council in October 2020. There is a public petition for Mr Lloyd to leave his $400,000-a-year top job.

● ● Murrindindi businessman Charles Exton (at left) appeared before Council last Wednesday (Mar. 26).

■ Former Yea Shire Councillor Charles Exton told Murrindindi Councillors that he was “put through hell” by the municipality in his efforts to develop property at Careys Rd, Killingworth, Yea.

Mr Exton, who has had property interests in Yea and Kinglake, told Council that he had a six-year battle to get the development underway.

“Council staff: no-one would make the right decision.”

He said it was “pathethic” that he was subjected to last-minute requirements from the Council, whilst others seemingly ignored planning conditions.

“Council let them get away with it.”

Other developers “just do what they want. It’s not good enough.”

Mr Exton said he was the last person to get approval from Melbourne Water in 2021. There were special considerations as the properties were in the vicinity of the North-South Pipeline.

Other properties had been sold and settled. “Who gave the Certificate of Compliance? Mr Exton asked.

Hume Fwy works

■ Transport Victoria is undertaking a series of maintenance works along the Hume Freeway

Works in progress and upcoming:

■ Beveridge: Repairs are underway on a damaged section of road surface. These works are expected to be completed by late March, with final line marking to follow in May.

■ Clonbinane: Southbound lane (heading toward Melbourne) repairs will begin in late March and take approximately four weeks, weather permitting. Final line marking is scheduled for May.

■ Wandong to Wallan: Resurfacing will take place in multiple sections along both northbound lanes (heading out of Melbourne) and southbound lanes (heading toward Melbourne) between late March and April. This work is expected to take approximately four weeks, weather permitting.

To minimise disruptions, works will be carried out at night from 9pm to 5am, Sunday to Thursday. No works will occur on Thursday or Friday nights. Both freeway lanes will remain open during the day, although reduced speed limits may still apply.

Expect minor delays of 5–10 minutes.

On-ramp and off-ramp closures will be required at times between Wandong and Wallan . Detour routes will be clearly signposted.

All works will pause over the Easter period and the weekend following ANZAC Day

The Local Paper

In association with the Established September 14, 1969

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

ABOUT US

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

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

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

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

• Mitchell Shire Edition: Mitchell Shire

CONTACT US

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

Mail: PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095

Web: www.LocalPaper.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

www.LocalMedia.com.au

E-Mail: Editor@LocalPaper.com.au

Editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au

Editor@LocalMedia.com.au

Editor: Ash Long

Features Editor: Peter Mac

Columnists: Len Baker, Matt Bissett-Johnson, Rob Foenander, Peter Kemp, Aaron Rourke, Ted

Ryan, Cheryl Threadgold, Julie Houghton, Kevin Trask, John O’Keefe

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

Logistics: Tyler Sandiford, Tim Granvillani, Erica Koldinsky

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

Mayor reports to Council

■ Murrindindi

Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher last week delivered a report to his colleagues at the monthly meeting, held at Alexandra:

“The month of March has presented a wealth of opportunities for community connections.

“The inaugural Dindi Daze event powered by the Rotary Club ofAlexandra was a celebration of the food, wine, produce, craft, and talent of Murrindindi.

“The final Yea Cruise Night of the season, on International Women’s Day, headlined the contribution of women in the community while hosting conversations about well-loved machines.

“The annual Buxton Community Celebration brought community members and Labour Day long weekend visitors together in the beautifully presented Buxton Recreation Reserve

“Later in the month, the Buxton Progress Association came together to contemplate the success of the event, and to lead discussions on infrastructure, and the safety and wellbeing of the community of Buxton

“Valuable information has been shared with Council about the experience of the sealing of Cathedral Close and Buxton Rise, Buxton. “The Molesworth community has also come together to consider what ‘better’ looks like for their part of Murrindindi through a facilitated Community Planning session.

“At the other end of the Community Plan-

Long Shots

ing Process, an initiative identified during Eildon Community Planning in 2021, has come to life, with the first ever weekly Eildon Pondage Parkrun event.

“ Council’s ‘Big Conversation’ engagements have been conducted right across the Shire with major sessions in Yea, Marysville, Alexandra and Kinglake hosting over 330 participants.

“The sessions, alongside the over 390 one-on-one contributions at popup events around the municipality and 177 survey responses will help shape the community’s vision and will guide the 2025-29 Council Plan which is the playbook for Council activity over the coming four years.

“It was very heartening, particularly in Kinglake , to see around 30 young people aged 7 to 15 sharing their deeply considered perspectives on the future hometown they’d like to enjoy.

“The advocacy activity of Council continued unabated, with a ministerial correspondence outlining the community dissatisfaction with 4G and 5G telecommunications at the Yea Saleyards following the 3G shutdown.

“There was interest from ABC radio regarding Council’s reaction to the Victorian Government’s response to the October 2022 Flood Inquiry.

“That reaction could be summarised as “an opportunity missed” to address some fundamental concerns with flood mitigation and recovery strategies.”

Local Photo Flashback

The Local Paper

In association with the Established September 14, 1969

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

MANSFIELD

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

MITCHELL

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

MURRINDINDI

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

NILLUMBIK (RURAL)

Incorporating the traditions of the Diamond Valley Advertiser (Est. 1995) and The Advertiser (earlier Evelyn Observer) (Est. Oct. 31, 1873) Nillumbik Shire (rural) comprises Arthurs Creek, Bend of Islands, Christmas Hills, Cottles Bridge, Diamond Creek, Doreen, Eltham, Eltham North, Hurstbridge, Kangaroo Ground, Kinglake, Kinglake Central, Kinglake West, Nutfield, Panton Hill, Plenty, Research, Smiths Gully, St Andrews, Strathewen, Warrandyte North, Watsons Creek. Nillumbik Shire is home to more than 64,659 people, living in approximately 21,753 homes.

STRATHBOGIE (PART)

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

WHITTLESEA (RURAL)

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

YARRA RANGES

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

Damien Gallagher, Mayor

Cheryl Threadgold, Local Theatre

Julie Houghton, The Arts Kevin Trask, Entertainment Aaron Rourke, Film Ted Ryan, Horse Racing Len Baker, Harness Racing

Bissett-Johnson, Cartoonist

Kemp, Art Rob Foenander, Music

Statewide

MONTROSE

Local fire concern

■ Bridget Vallence, Evelyn MLA, has spoken in State Parliament about the Montrose fire. A group of boys has been questioned by Police about the blaze.

“Our Montrose community was confronted with a significant bushfire event. Starting as a grass and scrub fire on Saturday, March 14, in Dr Ken Leversha Reserve along Sheffield Rd in Montrose, it unfortunately spread and became out of control during the middle of the night, with VicEmergency warning residents to ‘take shelter now’ – another test demonstrating just how resilient our local Montrose community is,” Ms Vallencer said.

“I pay tribute to our local CFA fire brigades and our valued volunteer firefighters, who show exceptional dedication to our Yarra Ranges community, that responded swiftly alongside Forest Fire Management Victoria, battling not only the hot and windy conditions but also what residents have described as overgrown vegetation and debris on the council reserve.

“Sadly, at least one home was lost. I also pay tribute to Yarra Ranges police for the work that they did doorknocking residents, alerting them to the danger and encouraging evacuation.

“A massive shout-out to the Montrose CFA fire brigade led by captain Matt Jalowicki on the fireground and communications led by safety officer Liz Peters and all of the amazing Montrose brigade members.

“A huge thankyou to the more than 30 CFA brigades who helped, including Mooroolbark, Chirnside Park, Coldstream, Wandin, Gruyere, Silvan, Mount Evelyn, Lilydale and Seville CFA fire brigades from our local Evelyn electorate – you are our local heroes.

“Montrose at the foot of the Dandenong Ranges is a beautiful part of the world, but this does serve as a reminder that the entire Yarra Ranges is bushfire-prone, and we all need to be alert and prepared,” Ms Vallence told Parliament.

TREAT WORKERS WITH RESPECT - NEW CAMPAIGN

■ The State Government is putting work-related aggression and violence in the spotlight with a new campaign asking the community to not cross the line, and to stop and reflect before tempers rise.

‘Don’t cross the line’ – a fresh campaign from WorkSafe Victoria – calls on everyday Victorians to consider the toll on workers who may experience yelling, swearing and hostility as part of their day to day work.

The campaign will run on TV, radio, social media, print and feature in workplaces – focusing on the cumulative impact of these forms of aggression.

The campaign comes as WorkSafe data reveals almost 1000 workers were seriously injured – including 316 workers who suffered mental injuries – because of suspected work-related aggression or violence incidents last year.

Deputy Premier and Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC Ben Carroll said:

“Aggression in the workplace is a community problem and needs a community response, so we’re asking all Victorians to step up and the next time you’re getting frustrated in a workplace, pause and ask yourself – am I crossing the line?”

Statewide

Across Victoria

SEYMOUR

Murder charge

■ Homicide Squad detectives have charged a man following an alleged fatal stabbing in Seymour.

A 41-year-old Seymour man has been charged with one count of murder and was to face Seymour Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Mar. 31).

PORTLAND NORTH

Road fatality

■ Police are investigating after fatal crash in Portland North on Friday evening (Mar. 28).

Emergency services were called to reports a car had crashed into a tree off Portland-Nelson Rd about 8.50pm. The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle died at the scene.

Exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be determined.

FORREST

Vehicle into tree

■ Police are investigating after fatal crash at Forrest on Friday evening (Mar. 28).

Emergency services were called to reports a car had crashed into a tree off Grant St about 8.45pm.

The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle died at the scene.

Exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be determined.

TEESDALE

Boy, 6, dies

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives were at the scene of a fatal collision in Teesdale. It’s believed a child was struck by a vehicle as he was walking to a bus stop on Bannockburn-Shelford Rd just after 8am Thursday. CPR was performed by a passerby before paramedics arrived but sadly the six-year-old boy died at the scene.

● ● ● ● Ben Carroll, Deputy Premier

●

● Charles Exton alongside Murrindindi CEO Livia Bonazzi at last week’s Council meeting.

✔

Murrindindi businessman Charles Exton put in an impressive appearance at local Council last week. He spoke in the public forum session, with his accountant Garry Angus, a long-time Pheasant Creek resident, dropping bombshell allegations of potential irregularities. Councillors would be well advised not to underestimate either man. Mr Exton is a former Yea Shire Councillor; his father Arnie was Kinglake’s representative at the Yea Council table for 27 years. Mr Angus, 68, is a veteran forensic accountant, whose firm acts for 3500 police officers around Australia.

Too costly to run CCTV

■ Yarra Ranges Shire CEO Tammi Rose says it is not financially viable for the Council to operate close circuit television (CCTV) security across the municipality.

“Under the former Federal Government, CCTV cameras were provided to numerous townships in the Yarra Ranges as an election promise,” Ms Rose said.

“Under the arrangement at the time, township groups were to be responsible for maintaining these cameras, and Victoria Police would have access to footage for investigative purposes.

“Unfortunately, the reality is that maintaining many CCTV cameras is extremely expensive, more than township groups – comprised of volunteers, locals and business owners - should be expected to shoulder.

“We understand that the impact of this is that cameras fall into disrepair, and no longer serve their purpose as a crime deterrent or investigation tool for police.

“It is unfortunate that the Federal Government of the time did not allocate ongoing funding to maintain or replace cameras as needed.

“Council does not manage public CCTV cameras, and does not have the resources to do so.

“In a financially constrained environment and during a cost of living crisis, the high cost of maintaining and replacing public CCTV cameras would mean either a reduction of services elsewhere, or ratepayers would find the increased cost reflected in their rates.

“We see either option as unacceptable.

Emergency access

■ Mansfield Council will be working to manage hazardous trees and other roadside vegetation on Old Tonga Road, Goodwills Road and Gonzaga Lane

Contractor unpaid

■ Civil works contractor Tom Sheehan told Murrindindi Council last week that he had worked on a 47-lot subdivision at Killingworth, Yea, where properties were being sold at up to $500,000 each. He had done $70,000

contacted

The Council successfully applied for the CFAVegetation Management Grant to partly fund the treatment.

●

●

●

● Mayor Cr Damian Gallagher at last week’s Council meeting ?

Murrindindi Shire Mayor Cr Damian Gallagher told Charles Exton last week that the Council would not provide a running commentary of the complaints lodged against the municipality. The Mayor did promise a thorough investigation. Council sources suggest that things may get sensitive if Councillors are asked if they have ever had business or social links with any of the parties involved in the Killingworth development.

✖There was silence in the Council Chamber after Charles Exton spoke of Murrindindi Shire’s performance. “I have rung this office so many times and never got a return call,” Mr Exton said. Crickets.

✖An Eltham man is dead following a fatal rollover on private property in Moormbool West- between Nagambie and Heathcote - on Saturday afternoon (Mar. 29). It is believed a car with four occupants was being driven in a paddock on the Hoods Lane property about 5.30pm when the vehicle overturned. A passenger in the vehicle, an 18-year-old man from Eltham, died at the scene. The three other male occupants were uninjured. The 18-year-old driver, from Eltham, was interviewed and released pending further enquiries. Exact circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be determined.

“We are hopeful that the Federal Government may find funding streams available to maintain and improve these cameras, to remove this cost burden from township groups, or find an arrangement with Victoria Police to allocate funding for these pieces of policing infrastructure,” Ms Rose said.

FATAL STABBING AT SEYMOUR

■ Homicide Squad detectives are investigating a fatal stabbing in Seymour early on Saturday morning (Mar. 29).

It is alleged a man was stabbed during an altercation between two men known to each other at a Heywood Crescent residential address shortly before 3am. The victim was taken to hospital however died shortly after.

A man later attended Seymour Police Station and was taken into custody where he was to be interviewed.

Police established a crime scene and will investigate to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Any witnesses, anyone with CCTV/dashcam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

The Euroa Three

■ Strathbogie Shire Council is presenting The Euroa Three, a new exhibition showcasing the figurative works of three local artists: Deb Cavanagh (acrylic), Anna Mackrell (oil), and Bruce Hargrave (watercolour). At Artbox, Euroa, April 2-28.

“The works are essential in ensuring these narrow, critical access roads remain clear and safe, particularly in emergency situations,” said a Mansfield Council representative.

● ● ● ● Tammi Rose, CEO, Yarra Ranges Shire

● ● ● Seymour Police Station

Court Lists

Seymour Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings

Wednesday, April 2

$2m welcomed

■

■

■

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

■ ALEXANDRA. Corner Hotel.

■

65 Grant St.

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

■ ■ WATTLE GLEN. Peppers

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

Lysikatos, Peter Thursday, April 3

■

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Endeavour

■

Alexandra (BP). 10 Downey St.

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Foodworks. 102 Grant St.

■

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

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

■ WESBURN. Hotel. 2882 Warburton Hwy.

■ WONGA PARK. IGA Xpress.

70 Jumping Creek Rd.

■

■

■ 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.

■

■

■ ■ BUXTON. Shell Buxton. 2093 Maroondah Hwy.

■

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

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

■

■ EILDON. Foodworks. 18 Main St.

■

■

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

■

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

■ ■ EPPING. Epping RSL. Harvest Home Rd.

■

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

■

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

■

■ ■ ■ FLOWERDALE. Hazeldene

General Store. 6 Curlings Rd.

■ ■ GLENBURN. Glenburn Roadhouse. 3883 Melba Hwy.

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

■ ■ KANGAROO GROUND. Kangaroo Ground General Store.

280 Eltham-Yarra Glen Rd.

■ ■ KINGLAKE. Cafe. WhittleseaKinglake Rd.

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

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

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

■

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

■ ■ MANSFIELD. Foodworks. 119 High St.

■

■

■ ■ ■ MARYSVILLE. Foodworks. 40A Darwin St.

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

■

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

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

■

■

■ ■ 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.

■

■

■ ■ 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.

■ ■ 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.

■ ■ 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.

Mitchell Shire

Edition

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

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Corner Store. 89 High St.

■

■ ■ BROADFORD. Broadford Hotel. 100 High St.

■

■

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

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

■ ■ YEA. Foodworks. 10 High St.

■

■ YEA. Giddy Coat Cafe. 94 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Newsagency. 67 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Post Office. 123 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Service Station. 165 High St.

■

■ YEA. Grand Central Hotel. 64

High St.

■

■ ■ ■ YEA. Marmalades. 20 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Mint and Jam. 46 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Nutrien Harcourts. 52

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.

■

■

■ ■ 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.

■ The City of Whittlesea says that it welcomes the Federal Coalition’s announcement of $2 million in funding to advance critical improvements to the Upfield rail line.

“This investment lays the groundwork for a more connected and accessible future for Melbourne’s north,” a Council representative said.

“This funding will support a scoping report that will plan for the duplication, electrification, and extension of the Upfield Line, ensuring much-needed enhancements to public transport services for our rapidly growing communities.”

The City of Whittlesea expressed strong support for this announcement, acknowledging the years of advocacy by the Northern Councils Alliance, member councils, and the broader community in championing transport solutions for Melbourne’s northern suburbs.

“This investment is a fantastic step forward in delivering the transport infrastructure our region urgently needs.

“The City of Whittlesea has long advocated for better public transport services to support our fast-growing population.

“Council is pleased to see this funding commitment to planning improvements that will increase train frequency, reduce congestion and provide greater access to education, employment and essential services.

“Further north, many residents in the City of Whittlesea and beyond are reliant on diesel V/Line services that are already nearing capacity.

“Extending and electrifying the Upfield Line and linking it with the Craigieburn Line will transform the rail network, allowing full utilisation of existing infrastructure and providing a vital suburban connection to Donnybrook and beyond, reducing the need for car travel in the Northern Growth Corridor

“The funding also paves the way for the construction of new stations at Beveridge and the future city of Cloverton - both key growth areas set to become major residential, commercial and employment hubs.

■

■

■ ■ YEA. Yea Bakery. 44 High St.

■

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

■ ■ YEA. Yea Take-Away. 68 High St.

Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express Edition

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

■ KILMORE. Kilmore Bakery. 54 Sydney St.

■ KILMORE. Kilmore Newsagency. 41 Sydney St.

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

■

■

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

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

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

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

■

■ SEYMOUR. Seymour NewsXpress. 66 Station St.

■

■

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

■

■ ■ ■ HEALESVILLE. BP. 66 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Coles Express. 123 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Grand Hotel. 270 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Healesville Newsagency. 195 Maroondah Hwy.

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

■

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

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

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

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

■

■ SEYMOUR. Royal Hotel. 26 Emily St.

■ ■ SEYMOUR. Terminus Hotel. 26 Station St.

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

■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook General Store. 36 Main Rd.

■ ■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook Hotel. 15 Main Rd.

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

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

Aydin, Mahmut Bouwmeester, Matthew Carpano, Elias Chambers, Shaun Choudhary, Sahil Christie, Corey Clegg, Ricky Clifford, Simone Crisfield Wilson, Rebecca Currell, Ernest Currie, Scott Deakin, Shania Dean, James Doyle, Jamie Evans, Stephen Fereday, Troy Michael Gates, Tracey Gillard, Michael Glavocih, James Glazebrook, Corey Grant, Aaron Grant, Travis John Hammoud, Mahamed Hancy, Paul Harris, Bradley Hermiz, Martin Basil Hopkins, Connah Jacobs, Ashley Jones, Brendan Kandasamy, Kisokumar Karajanov, James Lim, Christopher Mare, Jade Matthews, Valentina May, Brandon Mazzarella, Con Mcavoy, Declan Mcgrane, Shelby Mcloud, Trent John Mcnally, Darren Meers, Kylie Micallef, James Francis Miller, Reece Moloney, Joel Newbould, Chris Nunn, Mason Martin Paye, Yeaplay Pearson, Jayde Petronio, Jaimie Dean Pullin, Joshua Rodgers, Christopher Sanderson, Mathew Sevenich, Darren Singh, Prabjot Smith, Melissa Strnak, Ivan John Swanwick, Belinda Tant, Christopher Thomas, Corey Trott, Sherrie Wallace, Simon Wilson, Bailey Wood, John Trevor Zammit, Paul

Friday, April 4

Bettridge, Patrick Bunworth, Dane Doyle, Christopher David Freedman, Scott Mocenigo, Adam Mudd, Eric Stocks, Jonathon Wright, Joanne

Monday, April 7 Izzard, Jaxon

“Our region is expected to grow to over 1.5 million people by 2036, and we need transport infrastructure that keeps pace with this growth.

“This commitment from the Federal Coalition is a critical first step toward ensuring our residents have access to efficient and sustainable public transport.

“The scoping report will outline the project timeline, objectives, technical feasibility, economic and social impacts, environmental considerations and future patronage forecasts.

“It will also provide recommendations and identify the next steps for implementation.

“With the Northern Growth Corridor set to accommodate 30 per cent of Melbourne’s future expansion, the City of Whittlesea continues to call for significant rail investments to unlock the region’s full potential and deliver long-term benefits for residents and businesses.”

City of Whittlesea Mayor, Cr Aidan McLindon, said: “The City of Whittlesea welcomes this investment in vital transport infrastructure, which will lay the foundation for improved train services and greater connectivity for our growing community.

“Reliable and efficient public transport is essential for our residents to access jobs, education and essential services, and this funding is a crucial step in making that a reality.

■

■

■ ■ LILYDALE. Lilydale Newsagency. 237 Main St.

■

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

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

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

■

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

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

Tuesday, April 8

Thomas, Sarah Josephine

Wednesday, April 9

“As one of the fastest-growing regions in Melbourne, we need long-term transport solutions that match the scale of our population growth.

“The extension and electrification of the Upfield Line will not only reduce congestion but also support sustainable travel options for our residents.

■

■

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

■ ■ SEVILLE. Wooworths Seville. 568 Warburton Hwy.

■

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

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

■

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

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

■

■

■ ■ WARBURTON. Bakery. 3415 Warburton Hwy.

■ ■ WARRANDYTE. Grand Hotel.

140 Yarra St.

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

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

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

Baines, Dion Christopher Brennan-Nixon, Kristen John Challis, Scott Dalton, William Neil Edwards, Dylan Lisle, Corey Nasser, Mohammed O'neill, Chrisopher Patrick Pacheco, Marcos Pereira, Luke Phillips, Justin Spencer, Kevin John Taylor, Simon Thain, William Turner, Lane Wilson, Robert Peter

“We look forward to seeing this project progress and will continue to advocate for further investment in our transport network,” Cr McLindon said.

Small Business

■ Nillumbik Small Business Week is back for its third year, running from May 26-30.

The week offers a dynamic program of free workshops and events designed to support, inspire, and empower small businesses across Nillumbik

Regional Round-Up

Hughes Ck bridge

■ Mitchell Shire Council’s reconstruction of the Hughes Creek Rd bridge is said to be progressing smoothly, with the existing bridge now demolished and the temporary crossing successfully set up for passenger and emergency vehicles.

As part of the $429,000 upgrade, the next phase of construction is soon to begin, with the substructure for the new bridge set to be built.

This work is a key part of the project, which aims to replace the old bridge and improve safety by eliminating the current load limit, allowing safe passage for agricultural machinery and heavy vehicles.

The project remains on track for completion in June, weather permitting. During this time, larger vehicles are still advised to follow the detour via Highlands Rd and the Hume Freeway.

Hydration Station

■ Once upon a time it would be called a tap. These days it is a ‘hydration station’ and has been deserving of a media statement from Mansfield Shire Council.

“Easy access to drinking water is now available at Lords Reserve following the installation of a new hydration station,” said the Council press release.

“Located next to the barbecue shelter, the station was installed by Council in response to requests from sport clubs. Previously the reserve had no publicly accessible drinking facility.

“Council also agreed to cover the ongoing service charges. Goulburn Valley Water, who provided the station, will be responsible for maintaining it.

“The hydration station adds to a big suite of improvements Council is delivering all around Lords Reserve

“In February it secured funding from the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program to construct a brand new pavilion and upgrade the existing toilets and clubrooms – an investment of over $2 million. Drainage and car parking upgrade works were also completed in 2024.”

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said Council was investing in the future of local sporting clubs.

“We’re really excited to get started on the Lords Reserve pavilion,” he said.

“We have also put in an application to the 2024-25 Country Football Netball Program to ‘Light up Lords’, with a funding application submitted to install lighting on the oval with a budget of $375,000 for the project.

“We’ve listened to the needs of our local sporting clubs, and we’re acting. The works we’re delivering at the reserve will set them up for years to come,” said Cr Rabie.

Shade at H’bridge

■ Hurstbridge Community Hub’s outdoor courtyard has been transformed thanks to the installation of a new permanent shade shelter funded by a Tiny Towns grant for $30,000.

“The long-awaited installation of the vergola – which has automatic adjustable aluminium louvres – creates a more functional, accessible and inclusive space for all members of the public, who can now use the courtyard year-round,” said a Nillumbik Council representative.

“Installed in February, the vergola has sensors that open to let the sun filter through and shut upon inclement weather, making the previously exposed courtyard with its free barbecue a more attractive space for celebrations, group classes, conferences and meetings.

“The main air-conditioned building also boasts various flexible zones perfect for community or individual events, as well as coworking with free WI-FI, and complimentary tea and coffee.

Nillumbik Mayor Cr John Dumaresq said the new vergola is a game-changer for our Hurstbridge Community Hub

“Thanks to our dedicated Council staff’s persistence in securing the grant, we’ve significantly enhanced the Hub’s versatility. This covered space allows us to host a wide range of community activities year-round, regardless of weather conditions.”

■ Murrindindi Shire Council’s outdoor pools have made a splash this summer, welcoming the highest-ever number of visitors.

Nearly 35,000 visits were recorded across Alexandra, Yea, Eildon and Marysville pools during the 2024-25 season - an impressive increase of almost 25 per cent on the previous record set in 2024.

Murrindindi Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher said it was wonderful to see so many locals and visitors making the most of the free entry program and enjoying the facilities on offer.

"All of our pools broke attendance records this season. The Alexandra Swimming Pool led the way, becoming the first in the Shire to welcome over 10,000 visitors in a single season, more than 2000 above last year’s tally.

“Across all pools, favourable weather conditions meant we had a record low number of pool closures, with one dedicated Marysville swimmer even clocking up 100 visits.”

Cr Gallagher extended his thanks to the Eildon Op Shop which kindly donated new pool toys for the Eildon Swimming Pool

"With 8646 visits recorded at the Eildon pool and the opening of the brand new Baanh ba Djila Splash Park nearby in the Walter Moore and Thomas Marr Reserves, Eildon has solidified its position as a summer destination.”

donated by the Eildon Op Shop.

● ● ● ● Rob Skinner, Murrindindi Council’s Municipal Building Surveyor; Jaymie Elward, Council’s Building Surveyor; and Natalie Stewart, Manager Development Services.

Haines off-and-running From Cadet to Qualified Record numbers at pools

■ Indi MHR Helen Haines is off and running in the May 3 Federal Election race.

“Now more than ever, we need strong independent voices in Parliament. We need leaders with common sense, integrity and values,” Dr Haines said.

“We have a fight on our hands. And I am determined to use every moment to keep going strong on what matters to us: integrity in politics, housing and health investment for regional Australia and action on the cost of living.

“Together, we’ve transformed Australian politics. We helped deliver the National AntiCorruption Commission, and we influenced both major parties to act on housing.

“Across the country, independent candidates are looking to Indi as a model, inspired by what we’ve built.

“But there’s so much more to do, especially when it comes to climate action and integrity.

“We know the major parties won’t act unless they are pushed by strong, independent voices like ours,” Dr Haines said.

“This campaign won’t be easy. The Coalition has listed Indi as a target seat. This time, we’ll need every bit of grassroots support to win.”

RockFish at Euroa

■ Young people across Strathbogie Shire are set to take centre stage as RockFish - a free, high-energy event featuring live music, a fishing competition, and food vans—lands at the Euroa Arboretum from 1pm-5pm on on Saturday, April 19.

Co-designed by the Strathbogie Rocks FReeZA Youth Crew, RockFish is a vape, tobacco, drug, and alcohol-free event that provides a safe and fun space for young people to connect, celebrate, and enjoy entertainment.

The event will showcase electric bands including The Viceroys, Ungraded and Punk Band from 1pm to 3pm, followed by acoustic acts Lillian Kilroy, Jeremiah, Grace and Danny and more from 3pm-5pm.

Meanwhile, a fishing competition will run from 3pm-5pm, offering prizes for the best catches of the day.

At Wellington St

■ McEwen MR Rob Mitchell was in Wallan on Friday (Mar. 28) for the opening of the Wellington St upgrade, a key project that has significantly enhanced road safety, accessibility, and connectivity for the local community.

The $3 million upgrade - funded through the Federal Government’s $11 million Macedon and Mitchell Shire Roads project, with a $200,000 contribution from Mitchell Shire Council - has delivered vital improvements along Wellington St between Duke St and Watson St.

■ Murrindindi Shire Council has congratulate Jaymie Elward on successfully completing the Victorian Government’s Women Building Surveyors Program, becoming a qualified Building Surveyor and reaching a significant milestone in her career.

The Building Services team has been key in guiding and mentoring Jaymie, helping her gain the skills and experience needed to succeed.

The Women Building Surveyors Cadetship Program provides councils across Victoria with funding to employ aspiring professionals and give hands-on experience and thorough training in building surveying to support their education.

“Completing my cadetship and becoming a qualified Building Surveyor has been a challenging yet incredibly rewarding journey,” she said.

The works included new asphalt road surfacing, on-street parking, raised pedestrian crossings, underground drainage, kerb and channel works, footpaths, and a shared-user path to support safe and active transport.

Key intersection upgrades and tactile ground surface indicators have also improved accessibility for all road users.

While the majority of works are now complete, final installation of new street lighting will be completed in the coming weeks and street tree planting will also commence over the next month, depending on weather conditions.

Mitchell Shire Mayor Cr John Dougall welcomed the project’s completion, highlighting its significance for the growing community.

“The Wellington St upgrade has transformed a key corridor in Wallan, making it safer and more accessible for residents, pedestrians, and motorists alike,” he said.

"The project also holds great potential to encourage future investment along Wellington St and contribute to the economic prosperity of Wallan’s town centre.

“This is a fantastic example of different levels of government working together to deliver much-needed infrastructure improvements for our community.

“We’re extremely grateful to Rob Mitchell for securing funding for this project and his ongoing advocacy for the needs of Mitchell Shire.”

The Wellington St upgrade is part of a broader strategy to enhance road safety and connectivity across Mitchell Shire

It complements the $2.7 million Darraweit Rd upgrade, which begins in April and is expected to be completed in September.

Explore Day

■ Residents of Euroa are invited to come together for a day of fun, connection, and community spirit at the Euroa Explore Day from 10am-2pm on Sunday, April 13, from at Seven Creeks Park, Euroa Strathbogie Mayor, Cr Claire EwartKennedy, said the event is an opportunity for residents to reconnect, explore local opportunities, and enjoy a fun-filled day with family and friends.

“This event is all about celebrating the strength and resilience of our community,” Cr Ewart-Kennedy said. “It’s a chance to come together, meet new people, and discover the amazing clubs and groups that help make Euroa such a great place to live.”

The event will offer superhero training for kids, face painting, and Easter egg hunts, as well as miniature railway rides from 10.30am to 2pm.

● Lifeguards Emily and James with toys

Local Briefs

‘Bubsie’ visits

■ A replica of the 1925 Citroen car, ‘Bubsie’, that travelled around Australia a century ago, will be at the Gacin Hall in Broadford at 11.45am on Monday, April 14. Lyn Gunter from the Broadford Adventist Church said that the crew along with the replica of the original Bubsie car will be visit this region.

“In 1925 two young men set off as missionaries in a two-seater Citroen car. They were the first people to travel in a car right around Australia. The original car is in the National Museum in Canberra

“The trip started out on February 21 from Cooranbong after a number of stops along the way and will be in our town on April 14. From there they will travel to Macedon.”

Haines question

■ Indi MHR Helen Haines asked the Federal Treasurer in Question Time about the lack of funding in the budget for regional grant programs like the Growing Regions Program and Regional Precincts and Partnerships

Rainbow petition

● ● Dr Sean Mulcahy addressed last week’s Murrindindi Shire Council via an online appearance

■ Dr Sean Mulcahy spoke last week to Murrindindi Shire Councillors about a Rainbow Local Government - LGBTIQA+ Advisory Panel.

An electronic petition had 13 signatures. On the motion of Crs Damian Gallagher and Sue Carpenter, the Council agreed to receive the petition from Rainbow Local Government requesting the establishment of a LGBTIQA+ Advisory Committee and to consider the petition as a submission to the Council’s ‘Big Conversation’ engagement to develop the next Council Plan.

More street trees

■ Murrindindi Councillor Sue Carpenter reported last week: “Our Environment Department has commenced work on a strategy and action plan to plant more trees in our towns to provide shade and beautify our streets.

“Tree planting guidelines for nature strips will be developed as part of the strategy.

“I recently walked the newly completed Kayigai Trail in the Yea Wetlands. This has opened up new areas and is well worth visiting for a pleasant walk.

“We are refurbishing other trails in the wetlands to the same standard as the new trail using flood recovery funds, to be completed by early April.

“Council continues its effort to recover from the 2022, 2023 and 2024 floods as well as the 2024 storm event.

“It is important to remind my fellow Councillors and the community that our roads, culverts, bridges and other critical assets are insured through the National coverage provided to all Governments who experience a natural disaster.

“Officers have undertaken the urgent and immediate risk mitigation works in line with the National Framework, the teams have assessed all the damage incurred and have provided the State Government with evidence of the damage, quotes and certified estimates for approval,” Cr Carpenter said.

Kilmore priority for Birrell

■ Nicholls MHR Sam Birrell says he has been has been out actively engaging with the Kilmore community in recent weeks following the integration of the town into the electorate.

Mr Birrell says he has been pounding the pavement speaking with locals and business owners to hear what matters to them and their community.

He toured the Kilmore Men’s Shed , discussed the role of governments with students at St Patrick’s Primary School, and met with residents and local business owners.

Mr Birrell said he was delighted the town of Kilmore was coming into the electorate of Nicholls.

“I grew up on a property between Murchison and Toolamba and finished my secondary schooling in Kilmore as a boarder at Assumption College,” Mr Birrell said.

“Before being elected to Parliament in 2022 I studied agricultural science and worked as an agronomist until I became the CEO of the Committee for Greater Shepparton where I helped achieve significant infrastructure improvements for the Goulburn Valley.

Mr Birrell said he wanted to see regional communities like Kilmore thrive.

“I see Kilmore as a strong and proud regional town,” Mr Birrell said.

Heightened risk of deer

■ With deer breeding season fast approaching, the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions is reminding communities of the heightened risk of feral deer on the road as well as increased activity and damage across Australia’s landscapes, including in suburban streets.

Dr Annelise Wiebkin, National Deer Management Coordinator, says feral deer cause serious damage in farmland, native bushland and urban areas and that breeding season is a particularly critical time to notice their presence and manage their impacts.

“Feral deer activity will intensify in coming weeks, so people may see deer more often or even for the first time in a new area. It’s important the community reports sightings on the free DeerScan app. We have a small window of opportunity to track their spread and support control efforts, particularly in areas where feral deer numbers are still low.”

Furry fugitive at Junction

■ Police made an arrest of a different kind when responding to a burglary in progress in Yarra Junction on Wednesday night (Mar. 26).

A terrified resident called 000 after hearing what sounded like a person trying to break into her Peppercorn Place address.

The woman’s barking dog first alerted her to sounds coming from her back door about 11.30pm.

Police rushed to the scene and were shocked to realise that it appeared the offender was still trying to access the back door despite their arrival.

Expecting to locate a crook in the act, they were surprised to find a koala peering up at them from a dog bed beside the back door.

A search of the backyard soon confirmed the koala was their person of interest and had acted alone.

Apart from being a confirmed bed thief, the marsupial was released without charge.

It is unknown at this stage whether Coco the dog wants to make a formal complaint.

Council Rounds

Kinglake report

■ Murrindindi Shire’s Kinglake Ward Councillor Jodie Adams last week reported to colleagues:

“I attended the Kinglake Community Consultation session, which had an excellent turnout with people of all ages,” said Cr Adams.

“It was great to witness many contributions from our local residents and hear what the school aged children had to say about what was important to them.

“Everyone’s responses will form part of Murrindindi Council’s plan that will set the direction for Council’s work over the next four years.

“We look forward to improving our shire to be a wonderful place to visit, live, work and play.

“[On April 1] I look forward to attending the Community Planning session in Kinglake where representatives from local groups will be involved in a workshop to build on people’s ideas and prioritise what is most important to our community. More information can be found on the Loop under Kinglake Community Planning on the Murrindindi Council website.

“Under the participate tab, there is a registration form for nominees to be part of a working group to represent their community group and collaborate with other locals alongside the Council.

“This is a space to share your ideas and be part of drafting the plan to build a thriving and vibrant community.

“I would like to remind everyone that dog registrations are due April 10. Registration is a legal requirement and allows us to return your loved pet if it gets lost.

“This week reminder notices have been sent out to people who may have forgotten to pay their rates. Murrindindi Shire Council offers a variety of ways in which people can pay. This can be done online, by Bpay or in person at one of our customer service centres.

“Council also offers a direct debit facility, and deductions from your account can be scheduled fortnightly, monthly or quarterly. Many people prefer this option, to spread their payments across the year to make it easier with managing cashflow and household budgets.

“If people are interested in setting up direct debiting they can visit our website or a customer service centre to complete a form with their bank details.

“If anyone is having financial difficulty making payments, we encourage them to contact our rates team and discuss their situation with us.

“Rates officers can establish flexible payment arrangements to suit individual needs, and this avoids having interest applied to the overdue amounts.

“We have some wonderful op shops in Murrindindi Shire that fundraise for a variety of groups in our community. Most people in op shops are volunteers and we value their time and energy in these spaces.

“A gentle reminder for people to drop things off at the op shops with volunteers only when they are open so staff can assess what you have to donate.

“People can also ring and ask what items they are accepting as it depends on the size of the store. Please don’t dump items outside the op shops as this affects fundraising efforts with expensive costs of rubbish removal impacting community groups.

“Find out what donations your local op shop will accept, make sure they are in good condition so they can be resold.

“Op shops are a great place to find a bargain and move on what you don’t need anymore.

“Thank you to everyone in our community who submitted nominations for the 2025 Murrindindi Shire Community Awards

“The nomination period has now closed, and our assessment panel is hard at work reviewing all the exceptional submissions.

“We are excited to present the awards at a special ceremony in May, as part of National Volunteer Week celebrations,” Cr Adams said.

● Sam Birrell, Nicholls MHR

● ● ● ● Feral deer problem. Photo: Francesca Bowman.

Observer Melbourne

145-KMH IN 60-KMH ZONE

■ A man has had his motorcycle impounded after he was allegedly caught speeding in Albert Park

He might have thought he was on the F1 racetrack, but State Highway Patrol officers spotted the white BMW S1000R sports bike speeding on Beaconsfield Pde about 9.50am last Wednesday (Mar. 26).

The bike was allegedly clocked doing 145-kmh in a 60-kmh zone.

Officers safely intercepted the vehicle and spoke to the rider.

They were shocked to find he was not prepared for the ride, and was wearing shorts, socks and Crocs.

The bike was impounded at a cost of $953.30.

The 31-year-old Brighton man is expected to be charged with speed dangerous, drive manner dangerous, careless driving and number plate offences.

State Highway Patrol is focused on reducing road trauma involving

motorcyclists as part of Operation Protect Motorcyclists continue to be overrepresented in road trauma, with 17 rider fatalities on Victorian roads so far this year.

Excessive or inappropriate speed continues to be one of the major factors in fatal collisions involving motorcyclists.

●

● Theatre Heritage Australia President Simon Piening (left) congratulates Roland Rocchiccioli on his talk at Arts Centre Melbourne. More inside.

Victoria Pictorial

Park ‘Sanitorium’

Photo Collection

● ● ● Mont Park ward with nursing staff

● ● ● ● Mont Park. Circa 1917?

● ● ● ● Mont Park nursing staff

● ● Mont Park Sanitorium. 1918-1920

● ● The Deepdene-Mont Park ‘Reo’ bus: signwriting says ‘Deepdene-Ivanhoe- Heidelberg-Mont Park-Gresswell’

● ● Mont Park lounge area

The Whip

●

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called a May 3 Federal Election

■ Anthony Albanese rode in the Prime Ministerial car from The Lodge to Governor-General Sam Mostyn at Yarralumla on Friday (May. 28) to request a Federal Election on Saturday, May 3.

Key to the Election will be a nmumber of marginal seats including those in Melbourne’s east and south-east, as well as outlying and peri-urban areas.

Labor advances

■ The ABC says that Labor enters the Federal Election campaign in a stronger position than it was just six weeks ago, with polling suggesting the government could even be returned in majority.

“Research from pollster YouGov has found that if an election were held today, Labor would end up with a median estimate of 75 seats in the next parliament, with a lower estimate of 69 and an upper estimate of 80.

“That central estimate is just one short of 76, a majority in parliament.

“The Coalition is behind on 60, with a lower estimate of 55 and an upper estimate of 68.”

Deakin outcome

■ The ABC says: “[Polling] suggests Labor could gain Deakin in Victoria from the Liberals, which would be a surprising result.”

Dutton reverses

■ “YouGov's director of public data Paul Smith puts at least part of the shift away from the Coalition down to Peter Dutton scoring own goals with "very unpopular" policies,” said the ABC.

"Dutton needed to win working-class votes in outer suburban Sydney and Melbourne but his Trump-style policies of ending work from home and cutting 40,000 public servants have seen his support dramatically impacted," he said.

Bookies like Labor

■ On early Monday morning (Mar. 31), Sportsbet listed $1.80 odds for Labor to win the May 3 Federal Election. A Coalition win would pay $2.

Cancel SRL

■ In State Politics, Victorian Opposition Leader Brad Battin has called on Premier Jacinta Allan to axe the Suburban Rail Loop project. If successful at the next State Election, the Libs say they will stop and reassess the project.

“Infrastructure Australia has raised serious concerns including that the Allan Labor Government’s Business and Investment Case has overstated the benefits of SRL.”

WOMAN FINED OVER ILLEGAL WILDLIFE

■ A 27-year-old Melbourne-based woman has been fined $3000 for her part in a cross-border wildlife trade syndicate handling native reptiles.

The woman appeared in Melbourne Magistrates' Court and pleaded guilty to seven charges involving 13 animals.

The charges related to the illegal receipt, possession and disposal of protected wildlife (including shingleback lizards and eastern fat tailed geckos), as well as the falsification of import/ export permits, failure to comply with three import permits and breaching the code of practice for the keeping of reptiles in relation to three animals.

The woman was charged as part of Operation Pike, a major investigation by the Conservation Regulator into the illegal import, export, and trade of wildlife in Victoria, with assistance from Victoria Police and the Federal Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.

In a related matter, a 21-year-old Noble Park North man fronted Sunshine Magistrates’ Court last month after he pleaded guilty to 67 charges of importing and exporting wildlife without a permit, failing to comply with conditions of import/export permits, contravene conditions of his wildlife licence, controlling protected wildlife and falsification of import/export permits.

The Director of Public Prosecutions has appealed the Magistrates’ Court outcome, which is set to be heard in the County Court in June.

All wildlife is protected by law in Victoria, and it is illegal to import, export, and trade them without authorisation.

Offenders face penalties of up to $19,759 per charge. It is a serious offence to falsify documents and carries a maximum penalty of 10years imprisonment per charge under the Crimes Act 1958

Kate Gavens, Chief Conservation Regulator, said: “Our wildlife laws and permit systems exist to protect the welfare of native animals and the Conservation Regulator will not tolerate any exploitation of these processes for the illegal trade of wildlife.”

“If you are aware of suspicious behaviour around wildlife, we encourage you to report it to Crime Stoppers Victoria. Even a small amount of information from the public can help fight wildlife crime.”

Building at Oliver’s Hill

■ Frankston MLA Paul Edbrooke has told State Paliament: “I know everyone in this house was as shocked as I was when we saw construction on the beach south of Olivers Hill, so I want to give everyone in the house and in my community I bit of an update on what went on there.

“I went for a walk after many, many people in my community reported that there was some construction on a Frankston beach, and lo and behold there was construction on a Frankston beach – no permits, no engineering certificates, no planning – in a sensitive cultural heritage area.

“A man had moved into his house, seen fit to get rid of 700 square metres of protective foreshore from our community and decided to build a wall in the middle of a Frankston beach.

“Now, some might be a bit sceptical. The call was ‘I don’t want my house to fall into the ocean,’ while there is evidence that maybe a seawall was pulled up to create this seawall and possibly a boat ramp was being built from his house as well.

“The one thing we will not stand in any community in Victoria, let alone in Frankston, I can tell you now, is people deciding that they own the place and they will do what they want. They will put a $400,000 bond aside in their bank account because that is the cost of doing business. No permits were applied for – nothing. This is insane.,” Mr Edbrooke said.

NE Link concerns

■ Bulleen MLA Matthew Guy has spoken in State Parliament about his concern about the effects of the North-East Link on nearby residents.

“I rise to put on record some concerns I have about pollution smokestacks being built at the North East Link site, the location of which many of my local residents and I, certainly over the last week, have had a number of conversations about,” Mr Guy told the Legislative Assembly.

“These stacks will be around 18 storeys high, or the equivalent of. They will be unfiltered, these pollution stacks which will feature on the North East Link Program

“They are very, very close to Marcellin; Trinity college; Carey sports field; Belle Vue Primary in the member for Kew’s electorate; Bulleen Park, where there are a number of sports played from soccer to AFL to cricket –a whole range of sports; the Yarra River walking tracks; the local Indigenous area, where there is a billabong; the Veneto; and not to mention hundreds and hundreds of homes.”

Wollert protest

■ Thomastown MLA Bronwyn Halfpenny presented a 2462-signature to State Parliameny with public unrest about the to the proposal by Cleanaway Operations Pty Ltd to construct a waste-to-energy incinerator on Summerhill Rd, Wollert.

“Residents of Melbourne’s north are concerned about the harm from burning 380,000 tonnes of waste annually,” said the petition presented by Ms Halfpenny.

“Even with the best available technologies, dangerous pollutants like dioxins, PFAS, microplastics, and heavy metals will still be emitted, harming children through air, soil, and water contamination.

“The proposal would also generate greenhouse gases and hazardous ash requiring landfill disposal.

“The community fears the risks to human health and the environment. The incinerator would disrupt life in nearby residential areas.

“Wollert, home to many young families, has 59 schools within 10 km of the site. It is 2 km from a retirement village, 400 metres from Curly Sedge Creek, and close to water reservoirs.

“Heavy trucks would increase pollution and damage roads, while the 56-metre flue stack would affect air quality, soundscape, and views.

“Public opposition is overwhelming. Ninety-nine percent of the 764 EPA submissions rejected the proposal, and over 5600 people signed a change.org petition. This shows no social licence for MERC in Wollert.”

Ambo worries

■ Kim Wells, Rowville MLA, has told Parliament, condemning the Allan Labor Government for “its continued failures in managing Victoria’s troubled ambulance services. The unacceptable ongoing mismanagement of our ambulance services is seeing Victorians’ lives being placed in danger every single day. Victorians have simply had enough.”

Since 1969, the Melbourne Observer has been a trusted news source for Victorians.

These days the Melbourne Observer is available free, tucked inside all editions of The Local Paper, covering all Melbourne suburbs, the Mornington Peninsula and selected country areas.

As well as general news coverage, there is plenty of latest showbiz news, favourite columnists, and the mighty mega crossword.

The Melbourne Observer is available free weekly online, February-December. Free print copies are available fortnightly through a network of hundreds of outlets.

You can have the Melbourne Observer delivered free every week to your in-box. To arrange your free subscription, simply fill in the details at the form at www.FreePaper.com.au

Victoria Pictorial

Historic Photo Collection

● ● Brighton Beach State School. 1924.

● ● ● ● Brighton. (Valentine Series)

● Brighyton Orphan Asylum. Circa 1880.

● ● ● ● ‘Merton’, St Leonard’s College, Brighton. 1969.

● ● ● ● Brighton Post Ofice and Exchange. 1917-30.

● ● Brighton Surgery. New St, Brighton. 1959.

● ● ● ● The Welsh cottages at Brighton, reconstucted as ‘Pen-y-bryn’, the home of Lloyd Tayler, Brighton. Circa 1890

CAR REG. No.

A Chance to Address the Amish Rumours

■ Stephanie Hare’s A Chance to Address the Amish Rumours launches with the sound of a cow mooing.

Hare then ruminates on a childhood spent in the backcountry boondocks of rural Tassie, Jackeys Marsh , to be exact, which had a population of 40 in the last census.

Embracing an alternative lifestyle, Stephanie’s mother left Melbourne to pursue life off the grid, building the family an architecturally ambiguous house made from scrounged firewood and stone.

Stephanie’s father would regularly remove himself from the family home, retreating to a literal man cave in the mountains for weeks on end.

Hare suspects there may have been an ulterior motive. Phone reception was better at the top of the mountain.

Strange neighbours, encounters with an Earth Mother ship, white guys in dreadlocks, Stephanie assumed all were hallmarks of a typical childhood until she got to Melbourne and discovered fridges.

After all, despite salmonella scares from mouldy hoummos, who needs a fridge when you can pour milk straight from a goat.

Dropping out of uni, Hare set out on an adventure and moved to Scotland Homesick, Hare considered getting deported, but transportation is not as easy as it used to be.

Back in Melbourne with her new Scottish boyfriend, Hare embraces adulthood and makes grown-up decisions like what to name the Wi-Fi.

Hare perfects a nervy schtick, delivering quirky, slow-burning, and offbeat comedy. With a knack for storytelling, Hare serves a comedy monologue that gently builds and reads as afterthoughts, like mind dawdles along the highway of her life so far.

Performance Details: Until April 6 at 7pm

Venue: The Butterfly Club, 5 Carson Place, Little Collins St., Melbourne

Bookings: thebutterflyclub.com

- Review by Kathryn Keeble

Austen-Con

■ 24 Carrot Productions, a Melbournebased theatre and film production company, will celebrate Jane Austen's 250th year in their Austen Con 2025 event on Saturday, April 12 from 10am - 4pm at the Abbotsford Convent.

The celebration and exploration of all things Jane Austen and Regency will include dancing (both English and Indian styles) costumes, talks, lace-making or paper quilling activities, discussing happy ending or writing regency stories, and testing gossiping skills against the best of the Regency era.

Event Details: April 12 from 10am-4pm Venue: Abbotsford Convent Community and Linen Rooms, 1 St Helliers St, Abbotsford.

Bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/ eventlist/austen

- Cheryl Threadgold

Tiny King

■ Nathan Hugh Robért presents Tiny King as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival from April 7 - 20 at The Motley Bauhaus, Carlton.

In his show about height, power, and the absurdity of being small, Nathan plays a banished king trying to save his kingdom with comedy. The only problem is he's not a comedian. He's a king.

Nathan lives with cerebral palsy, a motor neuron condition that limits his mobility. This is implied and baked under layers of absurdity.

Influenced by Stewart Lee, John Kearns, and Oliver Coleman, Nathan talks about his experience in an irreverent and disarming way.

Performance Season: April 7 - 20 at 7.15pm. Venue: The Motley Bauhaus, 118 Elgin St., Carlton. Bookings: melbournefestival.com.au

Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

IT’S CADET KELLY

■ Comedian Ben McCarthy brings his latest show Cadet Kelly is the Best Movie I've Ever Seen in my Friggin Life to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival from April 7- 20 at the Motley Bauhaus, Carlton.

Ben's world turned upside down after seeing the Disney Channel original movie: Cadet Kelly, starring Hilary Duff. He's certain it's the best film ever made, yet people aren't giving it the recognition it deserves.

Ben will plead with his audiences to like a film he likes very much and will explain the reasons.

Ben McCarthy is an improviser and comedian who's been performing comedy for over ten years.

His nostalgic, absurd comedy earned a nomination for Best Comedy at Melbourne Fringe and rave reviews.

Date: April 7-20

Time: 8.30pm

Location: The Motley Bauhaus, 118 Elgin St, Carlton

Run Time: 60 minutes

Price: $24.31-$28.36

Tickets: comedyfestival.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Spin That Wheel

■ Kru Harale, a local Melbourne comedian, is part of a team presenting Comedy RouletteSpin That Wheel on April 4, 11, 12 and 18 at 10.20pm at the Melbourne Town Hall Lunch Room

This standup comedy show presented as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival has a twist in that the audience spins the wheel and the comedians crack improvised jokes.

This first wheel-based comedy in Melbourne where standup meets improv will showcase a rotating lineup of Melbourne’s funniest - from TV ande radio favourites to local comedy sensations transforming every performance into a hilarious game of chance, and surprise.

This season features acts such as Tom Ballard, Lloyd Langford, Lizzy Hoo, He huang, Lewis Garnham, Carl Donnelly, Brett Blake, Sumukhi Suresh, Daniell Connell and many more.

Performance Details: April 4, 11, 12 and 18 at 10.2p0pm

Venue: Melbourne Town Hall Lunch Room

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

The Boys

■ Sevenfold Theatre Company presents Gordon Graham's The Boys from April 29 - May 5 at the Bluestone Church Arts Space, Footscray.

The Boys, directed by Green Room Award nominated director Tess Walsh, is a fictionalised insight into the lives of the three brothers involved in the Anita Cobby murder, and the impact it had on the women in their lives, as they grasp at the reality of what has been done.

The play offers a raw unflinching look at gendered violence and how society is failing both its victims and perpetrators of crime.

Modernised to a 2010 setting, a layer of immediacy has been added to this production, highlighting that these disturbing behaviours and attitudes transcend time and continue to be engrained in contemporary Australia

“These men are not just a stereotype. Everyone is responsible for a change in attitude and stopping this violence.”

The Boys features Todd Costello, Lucy May Knight, Karli Rae Riesen, Eden Bren, Columbus Lane, Helen Hopkins, Stelios Ioannides and Ethan Rutledge.

Performance Season: April 29 - May 4

Location: Bluestone Church Arts Space, 8A Hyde St, Footscray Bookings: sevenfoldtheatrecompany.com - Cheryl Threadgold

Purple is the Gayest Colour

■ Making her debut appearance at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival from across the ditch, Alayne Dick’s Purple is the Gayest Colour is an energetic hour of lesbian levity and gay abandon.

From growing up in rural New Zealand though you wouldn’t pick it with her accent — to her day job among the bookshelves and preschool story times in a library, Dick entertains with a seamless flow of personal stories, sharp observations and colourful encounters.

Performed at Tasma Terrace in Parliament Place — a superb 19th-century Victorian Italianate building with loads of exterior character but a heartless and awkwardly quiet interior — the setting gave a slight sense of foreboding.

Dick performed in one of various rooms, a small and austere space that was instantly transformed with her presence.

Vibrant, colourful, witty, self-deprecating, bluntly honest, cheeky, irreverent and clever best describes Dick’s routine.

Naturally, the show is very much about her experiences as a proud and loud lesbian — and, of course, the irony of her surname.

She lets fly with a barrage of ‘dick’ jokes, gleefully mocking how reviewers describe her with lines like the entendred, “Dick – always disappointing.” But that couldn’t be further from the truth - Alayne Dick does not disappoint.

Her show is packed with fun games, tales of creepy kids, encounters with ‘enemy customers’, and cheeky reflections on identity, queerness and small-town life.

With a bold stage presence and a quickfire wit, Dick delivers a performance that is as heartfelt as it is hilarious.

Performance dates: 7.25pm Mon - Sun until April 6.

Where: Tasma Terrace, 4 Parliament Place, East Melbourne.

Cost: $20.41 to $27.60

Bookings: entercloser.com/shows/ 1086514757889

- Review by Beth Klein

Becky Lucas

■ Becky Lucas tours Things Have Changed, But The Essence Remains with her appearances at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival until April 20 at the Victoria Hotel.

As an experiment, Becky is inviting audiences to text her on her real number 0410 472 546 asking her to say something funny.

Becky promises to respond to all text messages and to do her best.

Becky Lucas is a writer and stand-up comedian and quickly gained recognition by exploding onto the comedy scene in the 2013 National RAW Comedy finals and since then has been unstoppable.

■ Monkey Baa Theatre Company returns to Melbourne with Josephine Wants to Dance at the Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts from April 11-12.

This musical production is based on the children's book by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley with a deeper meaning around following dreams and believing in oneself.

The show includes ballet, hip-hop and a kangaroo called Josephine who dreams of dancing. Despite the protests of her little brother Joey that “kangaroos don’t dance, they hop”, Josephine dreams she too can plie, pirouette, fouettés and jetés.

When a ballet troupe comes to the sleepy town of Shaggy Gully, Josephine desperately wants to dance like the ballerinas in pink tutus and silk ballet shoes.

She ventures into town where the city ballet is performing Swan Lake and all her dancing dreams come true. In a sudden twist of fate, Josephine steps in to dance and save the day.

Monkey Baa has assembled the following creative team to bring Josephine’s world to life: Director, Jonathan Biggins (Pete the Sheep, The Wharf Revue); Composer: Phil Scott (Pete the Sheep, The Wharf Revue); Choreographer, Tim Harbour (formerly of The Australian Ballet); Set and Costume Designer, James Browne (The Very Hungry Caterpillar) and Lighting Designer, Emma Lockhart-Wilson (Where the Streets Had a Name).

Adapted by Eva Di Cesare, Sandra Eldridge and Tim McGarry this is a show for families and small children with important themes for young audiences.

Starring Lily Baulderstone as Josephine, Callum Slater as little brother Joey and supporting cast including Nina Carmen and Hannah Gwatkin, the musical is delightful for both young and old theatre lovers presenting the story in a heartwarming and funny fashion.

Performance Details: April 11 - 12

Venue: Monash University, Alexander Theatre, Clayton Bookings: monash.edu/performing-artscentres/event/josephine-wants-to-dance/ - Cheryl Threadgold

Actually Kinda Hot

■ Chris Demos returns to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival with his third solo, new show Actually Kinda Hot, being presented at The Butterfly Club Downstairs from April 7-20 at 8.30pm.

Chris asks: “Have you ever been told you’re actually kinda hot? It’s not quite a compliment, is it? More of a surprise revelation, like discovering your expired yoghurt is somehow still edible.”

Actually Kinda Hot is described as “a riotous exploration of accidental charm, disastrous decision-making and the absurdity of attractiveness. From the mechanics of a flooded engine (don’t ask) to unsolicited legal advice and the perils of eating hours-old fast food on a plane, Chris takes audiences on a hilarious deep dive into life’s most ridiculous moments.”

Chris says: “Whether you’re a fan of Judge Judy, Judi Dench, or just the awkward spectacle of someone trying to remove a too-tight pair of boots, this show is for you.”

Show Details: April 7-20 at 8.30pm

Venue: The Butterfly Club Downstairs, 5 Carson Place, Melbourne Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

LOTS: ANZAC Eve

■ Legends of the Skies Theatre presents another ANZAC Eve special event on Thursday, April 24 at 7.30pm in the Casey Hangar at the Moorabbin Air Museum

The family friendly cabaret-style event is titled Why - Why we respect, why we remember, why we work for peace. Yarns, quizzes, facts, music, table competitions. BYO drinks and nibbles. Tables of 8. Event Details: Thursday, April 24 at 7.30pm Venue: Casey Hangar, Moorabbin Air Museum. $20 pp. Book a group or singly. Tickets: trybooking.com/CZFEL or QR code ●

‘Cadet Kelly is the Best Movie I've Seen in my Friggin Life’.

Theatre Observations

Shows

■ Fab Nobs Theatre: Come From Away. Until April 5 at Fab Nobs Theatre, Factory 33, 1-45 Industry Place, Bayswater. Director: Sarah Tierney; Musical Director: Sally McKenzie; Ass’t. Director/Choreographer: Aimee John; Ass’t. Director/Ass’t. Choreographer: Amy Miles. Bookings: fabnobstheatre.com.au

■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: When the Wind Blows (by Raymond Briggs) Until April 12 at the Warrandyte Mechanics’ Institute, 180 Yarra St., Warrandyte. Director: David Tynan. Bookings: trybooking.com/cyjqt

■ The 1812 Theatre: The Thrill of Love (by Amanda Whittington) April 3 – May 3 at The Bakery, The 1812 Theatre, 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Pip Le Blond. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au or 9758 3964

■ CPP Community Theatre: Macbeth (by William Shakespeare) April 4 – 12 at Boronia K-12 College, Performing Arts Centre, Albert Avenue, Boronia. (park at Rangeview Rd. end). Director: Kathryn White. Bookings: cppcommunitytheatre.com.au/

■ Ballarat National Theatre: This is the Way the World Ends (by Barry Kay) April 4 – 6 at the Ballarat Mechanics Institute, Sturt St., Ballarat. Director: Louise Permezel. Bookings: bnt.org.au/news?view=article&id =751&catid=66

■ Essendon Theatre Company: Ordinary Days (by Adam Gwon) April 4, 5, 6 at the Bradshaw St. Community Hall, 9 Bradshaw St., West Essendon. Cabaret seating. Bookings: 0406448368 or Trybookings

■ Upstage Theatre Company: Into the Woods, April 4–13 at the Tony Schemack Centre for Performing Arts, Beaconhills College, Berwick Campus. Directgor: Scott J Hili; Choreographer: Sarah Cullen; Musical Director: Tim Bland. Bookings: upstagetheatre company.com

■ FAMDA: Confluence (by Chris Dickins) April 5 – 13 at the Foster War Memorial arts Centre, 79 Main St., Foster. Director: Chris Dickins. Bookings: Trybooking.com/CZYVC

■ Frankston Theatre Group: An Inspector Calls (by JB Priestley) April 10 – 13 at Frankston High School Performing Arts Theatre, 97 Foot St., Frankston. Director: Gemma Sylvester, assisted by Stuart DaddoLanglois). Bookings: Trybooking or 0437 117 881.

■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Things I Know to be True (by Andrew Bovell) April 23 – May 10 at Williamstown Little Theatre, 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Shirley Sydenham. Bookings: wlt.org.au

■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Haunted (by Eric Chappell) April 24 – May 10 at the Lilydale Mechanics Institute, Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Nicholas Ryan. Bookings: lilydaleatc.com

■ LOTS Theatre (Legends of the Skies): WHY … April 24 at 7.30pm at the Moorabbin Air Museum. Why we respect, why we remember, why we work for peace. Yarns, quizzes, facts, music, table competitions. Family friendly. BYO drinks and nibbles. Artistic director: Maggie Morrison. Bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/CZFEL

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (by Simon Stephens – from the novel by Mark Haddon) April 25 – May 10 at Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Karen Wakeham. Bookings: htc.org.au

■ Malvern Theatre Company: A Happy and Holy Occasion (by John O’Donoghue) April 26 – May 10 at Malvern Theatre, 29a Burke Rd., Malvern. Director: Nicholas Opolski. Bookings: malverntheatre.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

65,000

Years

■ The Potter Museum of Art, the flagship art museum of the University of Melbourne, has announced the full list of artists and details of the six new commissions for its reopening exhibition, 65,000 Years: A Short History of Australian Art. The exhibition will open at the revitalised Museum during Reconciliation Week on May 30 and run until November 23.

65,000 Years: A Short History of Australian Art celebrates the brilliance and beauty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.

Lucille MacKellar Has Boy Problems

Auditions

■ Essendon Theatre Company: Things I Know to be True (by Andrew Bovell) April 1, 3 at 7pm, April 5 at 10.30am at the Bradshaw Street Community Hall, Bradshaw St., West Essendon (Off Buckley St.). Director: Angelo Snell. Audition enquiries and bookings: angelo.s23@live.com or phone 0458 502 232.

■ Melbourne French Theatre: Frenchspeaking actors only (or variation) for Après les Roses, le Poison - From Roses to Poison in French with English surtitles on April 5 at 2pm and April 8 at 7pm at La Maison de Maitre Building, 203-205 Canning Street, Carlton [corner Canning and Neill Streets]. Director: Donald Mcmanus; Producer: Michael Bula. RSVP on website melbournefrenchtheatre.org.au/auditions/

■ The 1812 Theatre Ltd: Home, I’m Darling (by Laura Wade) April 6 at 6pm, April 7 at 7.30pm at The 1812 Theatre, 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Amy Calbert. Audition enquiries: aj267@outlook.com or phone 0432 804 803

■ Malvern Theatre Company: The Humans (by Stephen Karam) April 13, 14 at 7pm at 29 Burke Rd., Malvern. Director: Nicky Neville-Jones. Audition enquiries: gemcoplayers.org

■ Brighton Theatre Company: Fallen Angels (by Noel Coward) April 13 at 2pm, April 14 at 7pm at Brighton Theatre, Cnr Wilson and Carpenter Sts., Brighton. Director: Joe Dias. Audition bookings and enquiries to Joe Dias: fallenangels2025btc@gmail.com

■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Rabbit Hole (by David Lindsay-Abaire) April 27 at 1pm, April 28 at 78pm at 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: John Bishop. Open auditions – no need to book, just attend at audition time. Any queries, contact director John Bishop John Bishop at retbish68@gmail.com or 0490 434 135.

■ Leongatha Lyric Theatre: The Heartbreak Choir (by Aidan Fennessy) Information session: May 3 at 3pm at 13 Watson Rd., Leongatha. Auditions: May 10. Director: Bernadette Grainger. leongathalyric.com.au

■ Eltham Little Theatre: The Addams Family: A New Musical (by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice) May 3 at 10am and May 6 at 6.30pm at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Rd., Research. Director: Isabella Preston. Enquiries and audition bookings: addams.elt@gmail.com

■ The Mount Players: A Skull in Connemara (by Martin McDonagh) May 10 at 2pm and May 13 at 7pm at the Moluntview Theatre, 56 Smith St., Macedon/. Director: Travis Handcock. Audition bookings: travis.handcock@gmail.com

■ Malvern Theatre Company: Perfect Wedding (by Robin Hawdon) May 18 and 19 at 7.30pm at 29 Burke Rd., Malvern. Director: Pip Le Blond. Audition enquiries: pipleblond@gmail.com

■ Gem Players Community Theatre: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: Information Evening: May 29 at 7pm; Auditions June 6 and 7 at the GEM,19 Kilvington Dr., Emerald. Director: Annette O’Shea; Choreographer: Payge O’Shea; Musical Director: Margie Gemmell\. Enquiries: gemcoplayers.org - Cheryl Threadgold

■ Lucille MacKellar Has Boy Problems is being presented as part of the MICF from April 8 - 20 at 6.15pm at the Grace Darling Hotel, Downstairs, in Collingwood

Lucille dreams of having a boyfriend, but despite her beauty and charm, can't seem to find one.

One fateful day, her simple fantasy turns cerebral breakdown and she's catapulted down a rabbit hole of self discovery.

Lucille will lament over Charli XCX concerts, 'evil gay men', the societal implications of ChatGPT, Gone Girl (2014), post-capitalism, the death of taste and more, with no proverbial cultural stone remaining unturned.

Lucille is an award-winning published writer and comedian from Sydney. She co-wrote the smash hit sell out show Inner West Side: The Musical for Sydney Fringe (2018).

Performance Details: April 8-20

Venue: Grace Darling Hotel, Downstairs, in Collingwood at 6.15pm

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

Mr Snotbottom vs Zombie Boogers

●

■ MrSnotbottom vs The Zombie Boogers: The Science of Snot will be presented at the Melbourne Museum Theatre in Carlton as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival from April 2 - 14 at 2.45pm.

This award-winning show is described as ' a side-splitting, gooey escapade and an adventure that's nothing to sneeze at.'

The promotional blurb for this show reads: “Prepare to dive headfirst into the sticky, icky universe of mucus as Mr Snotbottom tackles all the gooey questions you never knew you had. Why do we sneeze? Can one devour their boogers without turning into a zombie? Unravel these mysteries and more in this hilariously entertaining show.

“Kids love hearing about snots and boogers, but in this show, they’ll learn something while laughing their heads off too!”, says comedian Mark Trenwith, who can boast two decades of experience in stand-up, children’s theatre, and TV..

With a fusion of gross-out humour and scientific facts, ‘Mr Snotbottom vs The Zombie Boogers’ is billed as a family-friendly show at this year’s Melbourne Comedy Festival

“It’s more of an adventure than a performance - the audience gets to be the hero and battle the booger beasts themselves.”

Performance Details: April 2 - 14 at 2.45pm Venue: Melbourne Museum Theatre, Nicholson St, Carlton. Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

The Sex Lives of Married Women

■

had such a success with her debut novel The Matchmaker, she has taken up her pen again to write about the next chapter of women’s life.

Her new novel, The Sex Lives of Married Women, examines what love looks like after 10 years with a partner, and when women decide that being able to have it all is a myth.

That’s when the importance of our female friends who are outside that marriage comes into play, so Shad introduces us to three women who share their struggles.

Meena has returned from London to Sydney with her partner Owen and baby Sasha, and she’s feeling neglected by Owen

Then there is Sophie, a high flyer who has a whirlwind romance with Todd and sacrifices her own career for marriage and motherhood and finds it’s not all she had hoped it would be.

Rani is an international student who is feeling lonely as she raises her son with an increasingly absent husband.

The three women form a tight bond o friendship through coffee mornings, cocktails and confessions as they navigate a life that is different from what they imagined it would be.

Shad also looks at the influence of cultural backgrounds and how immigrant women in the west negotiate the path they tread between cultures, as well as the issues involved in deciding whether to stay in a marriage or leave it.

At the base of all this discussion is the strength that women find in true female friendship as a support for life’s transitions.

Shad pulls no punches in her subject matter, and feels it’s important that issues are aired.

“I wrote this book to not only discuss topics that seem taboo - female pleasure and sexuality - but also to highlight the importance of friendships in seeing us through the tough times,” she explains.

The Sex Lives of Married Women is published by Penguin Random House and out now.

- Julie Houghton

Roland Rocchiccioli

■ Author and actor Roland Rocchiccioli shared colourful stories of his remarkable theatrical journey over nearly 60 years at a Theatre Heritage Australia event held in the Process Lab, Arts Centre Melbourne. Roland engaged his audience with firsthand entertaining accounts of how the boy from the goldfields of Western Australia discovered the theatre and gained his start as an actor and member of Edgar Metcalfe's repertory company at The Playhouse in Perth. We heard of the triumphs, tribulations, characters and chaos but most importantly, the joy and laughter that have defined Roland's career.

Roland Rocchiccioli's autobiographical story can be found in Theatre Heritage Australia's Early Stages section of the online magazine On Stage: theatreheritage.org.au/ on-stage-magazine/early-stages/item/1053early-stages-roland-rocchiccioli - Cheryl Threadgold

● ● Lucy MacKellar

Shad.

Photo: Colourised

Journalist Saman Shad

● Mr Snotbottom aka Mark Trenwith

★The Easter Bunny will be making a special appearance at the South Melbourne Market on Thursday, April 17,between 11am - 2pm.

★Ford will celebrate 100 years in Australia with a landmark celebration on Friday (Apr. 4) at Melbourne Showgrounds with more than 2500 manufacturers, dealers and partners in attendance.

★Lexus Australia has announced a three-year partnership extension with the Victoria Racing Club, reaffirming its commitment to the Melbourne Cup.

★Bendigo Bank is major sponsor of the Bendigo Pride Festival for the fifth consecutive year.

★ Hotel Chadstone Melbourne MGallery is holding its Mad Hatter’s High Tea experience from April 4-20.

★ Jeanette Gower has launched her new book, Buy the Right Horse.

★The 2025 Stella Shortlist announcement will be made in Melbourne on April 8 at The Wheeler Centre, 176 Lt Lonsdale St at 6.30pm-7.30pm on Tuesday (Apr. 8). Inala Cooper and Elizabeth McCarthy will unveil the six outstanding authors.

★Art has the power to challenge, heal, and inspire action. That’s what Violence Prevention Australia aims to achieve through its national art competition, which has brought artists together to explore themes of resilience, healing, and the urgent need for violence prevention.

★ Eight local Melbourne projects have been announced as finalists in three separate categories for the 2025 Dulux Colour Awards : Atlassian Melbourne Connection Hub by Craig Tan Architects; The Meeting Place at 181 William by BVN; GPT SpaceCo 550 Bourke by BVN; Nicholas Hall at Wesley Place by COX Architecture; Professional Services Firm by Unispace; People's Coffee by Studio Tate; Melbourne Place by Kennedy Nolan; and Claremont by WOWOWA Architecture.

★The inaugural ARIA Innovator brought together a full house of Australian music professionals to explore new pathways in creativity, business and innovation. Some 250 attendees registered to see Recording Academy President Panos Panay speak alongside a heavyweight line-up of international and local speakers including Dr Marcus Collins, Gabi Lopes, Solai Valliappan, Natalie and Ricky Kradolfer and Dr Nici Sweaney.

★Ruth Moody , Australianborn Canadian songstress, will appear at Brunswick Ballroom (May 1), Menniyan Town Hall (May 2), Theatre Royal Castlemaine (May 3) and Yackandandah Public Hall (May 4).

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Cicero

Rourke’s Reviews Entertainment

Marc Cicero

★The Melbourne International Comedy Festival officially launched at Melbourne Town Hall, with Luke McGregor taking the stage as host and a lineup of local and international comedians including Omar Gad, Patti Fawcet, Rosie Jones (UK) and Noah Szto.

★The Cat Lovers Festival and Dog Lovers Festiva l are making a return in 2025. Dates at the Melbourne Showgrounds are October 25–26.

★Entries are now open for the the Australia Post Online Retail Industry Awards (ORIAS) which celebrate excellence in ecommerce, recognising the most innovative and successful online retailers across Australia in the past 12 months.

★Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award has officially launched for 2025, with entries now open for young chefs across Australia and New Zealand. Founded in 1965, Australia’s longest running culinary competition and this year, turns 60. There are $38,000 in prizes.

★George Kapnias and his team at Southern Cross/ Limomate this week celebrate the 30-year anniversary of the business.

★Regional Victoria's largest urban art festival is returning to the streets of Benalla, transforming the historic town into an immersive canvas of contemporary street art from Friday, April 11 to Sunday, April 13.

★The official completion of the amphitheatre and stage upgrade project at Alma Treloar Reserve, Cockatoo, was marked with an opening ceremony last Friday afternoon (Mar. 28).

★The National Museum of Australia in Canberra is now home to more than 1000 significant items that chart the colourful history of Australian and international fashion and design over 150 years.

★A widely-acclaimed installation by world-renowned street artist Rone, opened as part of The Outsiders Melbourne, at 167 Flinders Lane. It is open until May 25.

Adele, Adele, Adele

■ Award-winning British comedian Adele Cliff asserted her presence in the Melbourne International Comedy Festival even before arriving in town, by creating the longest show title in the Festival.

Adele, Adele, Adele ... Cliff It Isn’t The Consequences Of My Own Actions is a high-energy solo standup show presented by this hard-working dynamo until April 20 at Tasma Terrace at 6pm.

Hands-on from the beginning, Adele greets her audience, organises the music, then works the room on her way to the front.

Exploring self-deprecating humour in everyday topics such as class distinction between a broken wrist and broken arm, procuring and wearing contact lens, and housemates, Adele also entertains with stories of visits to comedy festivals in other countries.

Tackling the topic of lying - who does it and why – raises initial doubt about stories of her parents and sisters, Poppy and Zelda

But then we realise that Adele’s mother has indeed passed away in recent years and this courageous young performer – a self-described ‘non-crier’ – has found strength and healing through comedy and entertaining others, inspired by her late Mum’s love of comedy.

We feel for Adele when she candidly wishes she had invited her Mum to more comedy shows, and admire her dedication to the comedic profession with its associated risks of being self-employed.

This chatty raconteur maintains high spirits as she shares thoughts on dress codes at funerals, ghosts, jelly, films and more.

Adele said she doesn’t read reviews, but just in case - thanks Adele for an enjoyable 50 minute show. Hope you have a great time in Melbourne.

Performance Details: Until April 20 at 6pm (no shows Monday)

Venue: Tasma Terrace, 6 Parliament Place, Melbourne.

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au - Review by Cheryl Threadgold

Thanks to Glenn

■ Screen Producers Australia has thanked outgoing Chief Operating Officer, Glenn Hamilton, for exceptional service and dedication over the past four years.

“Glenn has been a pivotal part of the SPA team, bringing invaluable expertise, passion, and contribution to the organisation that has greatly impacted SPA and across the broader screen industry,” said a representative.

SPA announced the appointment of Sarah Melrose as new Chief Operating Officer. Sarah brings a wealth of operations experience and a deep understanding of the media and advertising sector, to continue to build on the strong foundations.

Novocaine

■ (MA). 110 minutes. Opens in cinemas April 3.

Intermittently amusing action/romance/comedy that, while quite gruesome at times, doesn’t take its premise to the absolute crazy extreme, playing it too predictable too often.

Jack Quaid (son of Meg Ryan and Dennis Quaid) plays Nathan Caine , an assistant general bank manager who has a rare genetic condition that has him unable to feel any pain.

Living a routine, reclusive existence, Nathan comes out of his shell somewhat when he develops feelings for bank clerk Sherry (Amber Midthunder).

The two connect, but before things can get serious, Sherry is taken hostage the following day by a group of bank robbers, led by Simon (Ray Nicholson).

Realising he is in love, Nathan decides to go after the brutal robbers, and his condition becomes a plus as he battles each criminal, taking frequent beatings as he attempts to save Sherry.

Directors Dan Berk and Robert Olsen (Villains, Body) have fun with the concept, but Lars Jacobson’s script never really goes beyond its high concept set-up, and as such, the whole thing begins to fall into repetition (Nathan’s break in to one robber’s home and its eventual consequences is the highlight).

Quaid and Midthunder are likeable enough. While it never reaches any genuinely compelling or deranged heights (and given its concept, is way too long), Novocaine is just entertaining enough to be mild fun, and is reminiscent of the Crank movies, starring Jason Statham For me, Villains remains the directors’ best film to date.

RATING - ***

Hunt

■ (MA). 125 minutes. Now available on selected digital platforms.

Renowned Korean actor Lee Jung-Jae , who became a household name with western audiences after the phenomenal worldwide success of the terrific Netflix TV series, Squid Game, steps behind the camera to make his directorial debut with Hunt, an unabashedly entertaining, if overly convoluted, high octane espionage action/ thriller.

Set in 1983, the story deals with the political turmoil occurring in South Korea, with protests against the current authoritarian government, and the factional infighting happening between the domestic and foreign departments of the KCIA, the former led by Chief Kim Jung-do (Jung Woo-sung), the lat-

ter by Chief Park Pyong-ho (Lee)

The two agents have a bitter history, but both are on the back foot when it appears there is a mole within the KCIA, who is leaking information about the schedules of President Choi Kyu-hah.

Subplots and red herrings increase by the minute as Lee tries to stay one step ahead of the infiltrator, and also tries to clear his name, as he is named as one of the chief suspects.

In many ways, Hunt is a difficult film to review, as it works as a visceral, if illogical, action/thriller, while its plethora of history bound material is overstuffed, never allowing plot threads and characters to breathe and properly develop, muting its overall dramatic impact.

Lee, whose almost three decade career has seen highlights such as Il Mare (2000) (which was remade as The Lake House with Keanu Reeves), The Thieves (2012), New World (2013), The Face Reader (2013), Big Match (2014), Assassination (2015), Along With The Gods 1 and 2, Svaha : The Sixth Finger (2019), and Deliver Us From Evil (2020), makes a confident debut as star/co-writer/co-producer/ director, and has obviously paid attention to the directors he has worked with over the years, especially during the exciting and wellstaged action sequences. Though one appreciates the close attention required to follow what is going on, the overly cluttered plotting is also a factor of Lee trying to cram too much into one script, incorporating so many Korean historical incidents (of which audiences will need some knowledge of) and supporting characters that can’t possibly be fully explored in a two hour running time (particularly the female roles). The finale also ventures into gonzo territory. Lee gets strong performances from his star-studded cast, and technically the film is first-rate. If solely taken as a fast-paced (and it does move at a lightning pace) action/thriller, Hunt succeeds admirably, forcing audiences to concentrate in-between all the thrills and spills. But for those who are fans of deservedly acclaimed political Korean films such as The Spy Gone North (starring Hwang Jung-min , who has one memorable scene here) and The Man Standing Next, or the provocative, under-appreciated ‘what-if’ action/ thriller 26 Years (streaming on Netflix ), may find this somewhat disappointing. Whatever your reaction may be, this is a promising directorial effort from Lee, and it will be very interesting to see what he does next behind the camera. For western audiences, this would make a fine double bill with the 1987 Kevin Costner film, No Way Out

RATING - ***½ - Aaron Rourke

■ It is amazing that a Hollywood actor who only made three films in his lifetime could become such a cult figure - most teenagers of the modern generation are aware of James Dean who died almost 60 years ago.

James Byron Dean was born in Marion, Indiana, on February 8, 1931. His mother died when James was nine and his father sent him to live with his aunt and uncle on a farm in Fairmount, Indiana

After finishing High School he studied drama at University in California James decided to become a professional actor and was cast in several uncredited films.

His first speaking role was in the Martin and Lewis comedy Sailor Beware

James moved to New York and played several roles in television productions. He studied at the famous Lee Strasberg acting school.

When director Elia Kazan was casting the film East of Eden, James was suggested for the lead role of Cal Trask.

Elia was looking for a young ‘Marlon Brando’ type of actor but soon realised during the audition that James Dean and had his own unique acting style.

He won the role and filming began in 1954. James ad-libbed his lines in some scenes which gave added realism and he created some great impromptu moments in the film through his creative genius. Sadly this was the only one of his films that he lived to see.

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Whatever Happened To ... James Dean

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

He immediately started work on his next film Rebel Without A Cause and co-starred with Natalie Wood and Sal Mineo.

This film was very popular with teenagers and as I was a teenager at that time I wanted to be just like James Dean

He played an angry misunderstood character and once again gave a brilliant performance. His interests included acting, bull fighting and car racing.

In 1955 he started work on his final film Giant and starred opposite Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson and former child star Jane Withers

In a recent radio interview with Jane Withers I discussed her memories of James Dean Jan e told me he was a "loner" and he would

● ● ● ● James Dean visit her house to enjoy the family life atmosphere with her children and husband. She read passages from the Bible with him and they had great discussions about religion.

She used to wash his clothes and the last time Jane saw James she said she had a premonition she would never see him again.

Jane began to cry during the interview and I was deeply moved for her. Jane still has one of his shirts that she was washing for him at the time of his death. Jane Withers is a beautiful person.

On September 30, 1955, James Dean and his mechanic Rolf Wütherich were driving in a brand new Porsche 550 Spyder on their way to Salinas for a sports car race.

They were involved in a head on collision at dusk at the junction of Route 41 and Route 46

James was pulled from the sports car wreckage but Rolf had been thrown clear. There were no safety belts in those days. Both men were raced to a hospital 45-km away in the same ambulance. Sadly James Dean was pronounced dead upon arrival.

A series of photographs have emerged over

the years taken on the day James Dean died. There is one of him filling the sports car with petrol at a service station.

He was booked for speeding two hours before the accident but at the time of the crash it was determined he was not speeding and was not under the influence of alcohol.

Shortly before he died James filmed a road safety community television spot with Gig Young. At the end of the segment instead of saying the line, "The life you save may be your own" he ad-libbed, "Take it easy driving, the life you might save might be mine".

James Dean is buried in Fairmount, Indiana , near his uncle's farm where he grew up. Ironically Rolf Wütherich died in a car crash in 1981 at the age of 53. He had suffered mental health issues as a result of the accident 26 years earlier.

James Dean received a posthumous Academy Award nomination for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his performance in East of Eden. After his untimely death he became a Hollywood cult legend.

Kevin Trask

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

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

TURRANGKA-IN-THE-SHADOWS AT MORNINGTON

Turrangka-In the Shadows –

James Tylor brings together a decade pf practice by acclaimed disciplinary artist James Tylor’s practice unpacks the histories of colonisation and its profound impact on indigenous cultures as informed by his heritage comprising Nunga (Kaurna Myurrnaj) Mâori and European English, Scottish, Irish, Dutch and Norwegian ancestry.

His expansive practice combines historical and contemporary photographic processes, exploring the complexities of cultural identity and relationships to place, in particular to the Kaurna Country in South Australia

This extensive survey features Tylor’s renowned daguerreotypes, expansive digital photographic series, and handmade Kaurna objects.

The exhibition calls attention / Tylor’s enduring interest in the Becquerel Daguerreotype, a 18th century photographic process to which he has returned throughout his career.

Exhibition closes May 25. Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery, Civic Centre Dunns Rd, Mornington

New Wave 25

■ New Wave 25 showcases the works of VCE and VCEVET art, visual art, media arts, fashion, design and technology students within the Mornington Peninsula Shire.

The exhibition includes paintings, drawings, photography, ceramics, installation and more b a new generation of young artists.

The show offers students the opportunity to participate in a group exhibition on a public gallery and serves as an inspiration for other senior students to see the work and ideas from local students in a gallery setting.

Exhibition closes May 25.

Seasonal Shifts

■ Tracing the rhythms of life, memory, identity and human influence on the environment, Seasonal Shifts is a group exhibition presenting artists whose works unveil our natural surroundings.

The Arts

As observers of nature we bear witness to moments of seasonal change, and the beauty and unpredictably of our environment.

We feel the impact of natural forces on our minds and bodies, and actions.

A favourite flower, the smell of rain, or a familiar rock formation can become markers of experience, a record of our personal histories told through objects and places.

As time unfolds, we see the traces we leave behind and the ways human presence alters the landscape, both subtle and drastic, temporary and permanent.

Exhibition closes April 26. Town Hall Gallery 360 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn

At Bendigo

The School of Paris – Australian Artists Abroad

For many Australian artists of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, an exposure to French and Parisian traditions of art making was formative and profound, whether their time in Paris was fleeting or they were true émigrés, never to return to Australia.

‘The School of Paris’ was a term coined in reference to the wave of non-French artists from around the world who gravitated to this thriving centre of artistic activity, initially drawn to the Montmartre district and

then to Montparnasse in the south of the city, artists in this period explored the range of modern styles as they studied, exhibited and immersed themselves in a progressive and lively culture – and the great galleries and museums of the city.

In a variety of ways, the artists featured in in this room either through living and working in Paris themselves or through the teachings of others were influenced by that city’s unique milieu in the heady decades before the outbreak of World War I, which catalysed a shift for many Western artists – across the Atlantic to New York City.

This Collection on display can be found in the oldest gallery space Bolton Court, built in 1867.

In the late 188os under the supervision of the distinguished Bendigo architect W.C. Vahland, this building was converted from the orderly room of the Bendigo Volunteer Rifle Brigade to a permanent home for the Gallery’s collection.

Exhibition closes October 12.

Bendigo Art Gallery 42 View St, Bendigo - Peter Kemp

At Bunjil Pl

■ Bunjil Place Gallery has unveiled Floribunda, a new exhibition by renowned artist David Sequeira exploring the enduring connection between humans and flowers and their influence on art.

A major partnership between the National Gallery of Victoria and Bunjil Place, Floribunda brings together over 150 works from within one of Australia’s most important collections, marking one of the largest single loans in the history of the NGV

Spanning painting, ceramics, photography, bark painting, sculpture, installation art, jewellery, textiles, printmaking, drawing and fashion, the exhibition highlights flowers as a persistent subject in a range of art practices, histories and movements, featuring works by international andAustralian artists, creatives and designers, including Azuma Makoto, John Brack, Arthur Streeton, Margaret Preston and Grace Cossington-Smith.

Graeme Norton live shows

New Zealand. During his Q and A one fan asked ,' who was the worst person he interviewed ?' Within seconds Graham answered 'Harvey Weinstein' who he had as a guest on his UK show in 2007 pre-Harvey's incarceration. Never to be forgotten.

Timberlake flies high

■ Justin Timberlake is currently involved in his Forget Tomorrow world tour. En route flying to South America, Justin took control of the hosties public address phone and performed snippets from his stage show, then played Mini Golf down the aisle of the plane. I'm told passengers enjoyed the performance - not sure if it was perfectly legal by Air Governance rules and regs. O maybe it was performed on a private jet, where almost anything goes.

Hammer Media joins stable

■ Bunnings has added Hammer Media to their blitz of conventional advertising. The new medium is digital screens in stores pushing brands and events to shoppers as they brouse the aisles. Screens already operate in 150 stores nationally with a total store roll-out planned progressively. There is no escaping Bunnings messages.

Disrupt radio mystery

■ Disrupt Radio hit the digital airwaves in June 2023 but their dreams crashed 18 months later; the studio, leased from SEN, Melbourne, was shuttered and staff started bleating over unpaid wages. Wind-up notices were issued but dismissed suggesting possibilities were in the offing for a White Knight. Hence, the current situation with a substantial amount in unpaid wages, rentals and suppliers. The marketing strategy for Disrupt was targeted towards small business, entrepreneurs and innovators.

Newport Jazz Festival

■ The line-up for Newport Jazz Festival is in one word-sensational - 40 bands to perform May 2-4. The big names of Australian jazz - Bob Sedergreen, The Pearly Shells, and hot licks embracing trad, swing, bebob, boogie, bossa, blues and beyond. Tickets from $54 at melbournejazz jammers.com.au

Fly On Wall doco

■ Delvene Cornell, nee Delvene Delaney, has released a doco featuring unseen snippets of Crocodile Dundee in production. Titled 'Love of an Icon' the doco is screening in selected cinemas. The footage was retrieved from a locked shed on Delvene's property, edited together to make an interesting video about making of Australia's biggest grossing film. Snippets include the drama when Kerry Packer pulled the pin on the $1 million he invested in 'Crocodile Dundee'. - John O’Keefe

with Peter Kemp

■ Reviewers have been kind to Irish comedian, come chat show presenter Graham Norton. His relaxed presentation of storytelling has captivated Australian audiences, and now he is off to

OK. With John O’Keefe

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Across Observer

Lovatts Crossword No 13

Across Down Down

1. Shabbiness in dress

6. Light-bulb inventor

11. Shiny

15. Forts

20. Egyptian river

21. Reproductive organ

22. Shopping precinct

23. Lead dancer, ... ballerina

25. South Africa's Cape ... Hope (2,4)

26. Pakistan currency units

27. Actor, Ryan ... (1'4)

29. Likable

32. Tube

34. Without delay (1,1,1,1)

36. Look-alikes, dead ...

39. Caravan rover

41. Brief

43. Sparking stone

46. Boils or ulcers

48. Low wetland

49. London's ... Mall

51. Curving lines

52. Exploited

55. Territory, Puerto ...

56. Every

59. Composer, Andrew ... Webber

61. Antarctic inlet, ... Sea

62. False god

63. Crowd brawl

64. Corrected (wrong)

67. Dalai Lama's nationality

68. Bitter regret

70. Very keen enthusiast

71. One who owes money

72. Overeats

73. Firebomb liquid

74. Of punishment

75. Batting spell

77. Broken down

78. Resounded

79. Theatre reviewer

82. Hazardous

86. Loft

87. Peace prize city

89. Spick & span

92. Merge

94. Get up

96. Biblical son of Isaac

98. Naming word

100. Recycle

101. Mongolian desert

103. Painting, Mona ...

105. From Baghdad

106. Adolescent

108. Sports match

111. Autograph

112. Actor's outfits

114. Rat

116. A single time

119. Droplet

120. Location

121. Kind

123. Leave out

124. Madam (2'2)

125. Flowing

126. Loudness

127. Grand house

130. Born as

131. Cleaning up (room)

135. English coin

138. Not stereo

139. Large jug

141. Computer/phone link

144. A lot of

146. I am, you ...

147. Looked up & down

148. UK national broadcaster (1,1,1)

149. Mad Roman emperor

150. Fuss

151. Female zebra

152. German emperor

153. Repast

155. Drink, ... spumante

157. Golfer, Greg ...

158. Unseat

160. Release (3,2)

161. Sprite

162. Italian city

163. Honey liquor

165. Brother's daughter

166. Souped-up car, hot ...

167. Scamp

168. Laid slates

169. Upper-class 171. Document, Magna ...

172. Glossy black bird 175. Entrails

176. Lubricates

179. Breakfast dish

180. Cow flesh

182. Flowers, sweet ... 184. Chirps

185. Castle water ditch

186. 24 December, Christmas ... 188. ... Lang Syne

189. US anti-crime agency (1,1,1)

190. Measure (out)

191. Fifth musical note

193. Own 194. Father 196. Verge

197. Fiesta, Mardi ... 198. Medicine amounts 200. Unhappiest

205. Vicious dog

207. Second-hand vehicle (4,3)

210. Playwright

211. Reparation

212. In a frenzied state

213. Grass skirt dance

214. USA nickname, Uncle ..

216. Steals from 218. Created

219. Prepare (newspaper)

220. Tights

224. Coffee style

227. Spiky plant, ... vera 229. From Bangkok

230. Abhor

231. Gallantly

232. Dr Jekyll & Mr ...

233. Heredity unit

235. Out of order

237. Solidifies

239. Actor, Richard ...

241. Timepiece

244. Forewarning

246. Blankness

249. ... & twos

252. Depletes

254. Crave

256. Heaven's ... Gates

258. French Mrs

259. Pins for hammering

260. Romantic US falls

263. Internal

264. Lump of gold

265. Legless grub

267. Actress, ... Kidman

270. Digit

271. Funeral Mass

272. Actor, Dustin ...

273. Lewd

274. Loses (hair)

277. London nightspot

279. Make (wage)

281. Throw out

284. Only fair (2-2)

286. Crustacean with nippers

288. Small distance measures

292. Yoga master

294. Raw metals

295. Domestic servants

298. Screen legend, Sophia ...

300. From Emerald Isle

301. Sum up

303. Baby's skin problem, ... rash

306. Bashfulness

308. Japan & Korea are there

309. Oil-exporting cartel

311. Throb

314. Mushy

315. Energetic

316. Do the dishes (4,2)

317. Throng

318. Former spouses

319. Paris landmark, ... Triomphe (3,2)

320. Tennis ace, ... Sampras

321. Urges

322. Sense

323. Blunted

324. Movie actors (4,5)

1. Renovate (2,2)

2. Become distorted

3. Suggest

4. Kuwaiti rulers

5. Clean break

6. Flees to wed

7. Delay

8. Bathroom fixtures

9. Fall asleep (3,3)

10. Brigand

11. Revolve on axis

12. Stood against

13. Smudge

14. Palestinian chief, ... Arafat

15. Pour carelessly

16. Aida or Carmen

17. Potters' ovens

18. Pantomime lead

19. Observes

24. Rebukes, ... over the knuckles

28. Put on ... & graces

30. Spoken

31. Hideous

33. Irritated the skin

35. Incidental comments

37. Clarified butter

38. Curry & ...

40. Face veils

42. Physical activity

44. Portugal's capital

45. Scientist, Sir Isaac ...

47. Stench

48. Elevated railway

49. Drainage tradesman

50. Extortionate lender (4,5)

53. Largest bird

54. Calls (5,2)

57. Ancient Mariner's seabird

58. Protective headwear

60. Cloth retailers

63. Cleaver

65. Frosted (cake)

66. Expensive

68. Coral bank

69. Cosy

76. Set up (machinery)

79. Long-leafed lettuce

80. Nunavut native

81. Eastern faith

83. Twig shelters

84. Cartoon strip, Li'l ...

85. Flightless bird

88. English cheese

90. Fleur de lis plant

91. Among 93. Riveted

95. Easter gifts

97. Unplaced competitor (4-3)

99. Constantly busy (2,3,2)

100. Hire

102. Pungent bulb

104. Largest African nation

107. Uncanny

109. Wet

110. Vocal solo

111. Jet-baths

113. Soapie session

115. Obvious

117. TV award

118. Young deer

121. Contemptibly

122. Patella

127. Nonsense, ... jumbo

128. Razor cuts

129. Bits & pieces (4,3,4)

132. Recipe components

133. Stupid

134. Avarice

135. Packaged

136. Dilapidated

137. 24 hours ago

138. Unforgettable

140. Enforces once more

141. Pacified

142. Courageous

143. Huge stone blocks

145. Tomahawk

151. Enormous

154. Men's Singles champion, .. . Agassi

156. Lustre

159. One, numero ... 164. Totally

169. Cougars

170. Steam burn

173. Influences

174. Short, witty remark

177. Author, ... Asimov

178. Take oath

181. Whirling (of water)

183. Women warriors

187. Wantonly destroy

192. Female hormone

195. Current of air

199. Supervise

201. Points gun

202. Anti-flood embankment

203. Genuine fact

204. Implicit

206. Gay

207. Non-rural

208. Cheap, a ... a dozen

209. Lends a hand to 213. Smacks

215. Strolling

217. Killed

221. Helium & hydrogen

222. Not ever

223. Cut with scissors

224. Charlotte Bronte novel, Jane ...

225. Withdraw, ... out

226. Poet, ... Allan Poe

228. Legal trade bans

234. Phone security device

236. Wrongdoers

238. Terminate

240. Singer, ... Orbison

242. Normally (2,1,4)

243. Peculiarity

245. Mussels or clams

247. Peppermint essence

248. Nut fastener

250. Scientist, Albert ...

251. Weasel-like animals

253. Overfill

255. College test

257. Recline lazily

258. Restaurant list

261. Lovers' fling

262. Military forces

265. Valuable ores, precious ...

266. Garden ornament

268. Hex

269. The Continent

275. Jolly laugh (2,2)

276. Rounded roof

278. Hampers

280. Pressurised spray

282. Delights

283. Dollar division

285. Properly positioned, in ...

287. Steam generator

289. Tripoli citizen

290. Impersonates

291. Melted

292. Barked shrilly

293. Potato

296. Colorado ski resort

297. Writer, ... Thomas

299. Obtain (funds)

302. Two-door car

304. ... Fools' Day

305. Earnest requests

306. Crown Princess of Denmark

307. Opera singer

308. Yes votes

310. Head cook

312. Charismatic air

313. Spreading trees

By Rob Foenander info@robfomusic.com.au

House Concert

■ Carrum Downs House Concerts is delighted to welcome Brendan McMahon and Sarah Catania to their venue.

Both Melbourne artists are at the peak of their careers and will take the audience on an interesting afternoon of award winning songs and the stories behind their compositions.

A barbecue lunch in included and it will all happen on Sunday (Apr. 6) from 1pm5pm.

More info and tickets at trybooking.com

Sunrise

■ Australian ccoustic roots singersongwriter Michael Ward has released his new single.

Titled Sunrise , it is a slick, well produced, uplifting track that takes you on a journey to the south-west WA town of Margaret River to fall in love for the first time.

Michael delivers his fusion of gritty blues, folk and alt country with a supercharged energy whenever he's on stage, says his media release.

Storytellers

■ Casey Radio presents ARIA award winning musician, songwriter and composer David Bridie at their next Storytellers show. Sunday, April 6, at 2pm at the Cranbourne Bowls Club.

Tickets https://www.trybooking.com/ - Rob Foenander

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Winni Wizard and the Ditzy Dizzard

■ Comedians Lisa Gatenby and Jacob Sacher will join forces to entertain '4-400 year olds' as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival in their show

Winni Wizard and the Ditzy Dizzard, from April 5-11 at 2pm at the Ivanhoe Library and Cultural Hub, and April 12-17 at 2pm at Kindred Studios, Yarraville.

Their story follows Winni (the wacky wizard) as she visits her friend Ditzy

Through hijinx and mayhem they soon learn that there’s more to success than being good at magic. Being true to yourself and following your dreams count just as much.

Can Ditzy learn to follow Winni’s lead and lean into being himself?

This show will encourage audiences young and old to avoid judging their self worth based on external metrics of success and rather aim to be true to one’s own values.

Winni Wizard and the Ditzy Dizzard is the latest addition to the Winni Wizard chronicles, with an exciting new character addition; Sacher as the Ditzy Dizzard.

Gatenby’s Winni Wizard has found magical success touring her previous shows over the past two years, and has since earned a cult following in Melbourne and Sydney from both kids and their adults.

Sacher is the Chair of Melbourne’s NFP Comedy theatre

Crossword Solution No 13

Cornershop comedy and has recently returned from New Zealand and the United States where he performed his unique brand of introspective comedy.

Performance Details: April 511 at 2pm at the Ivanhoe Library and Cultural Hub, 275 Upper Heidelberg Road, Ivanhoe. April 12 - 17 at 2pm at Kindred Studios, 3 Harris Street, Yarraville. Bookings: comedyfestival. com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

MEAA directors

■ The Media section of the MEAA has appointed a new Federal President and Vice-Presidents, who will also serve as directors of the Walkley Foundation.

Michael Slezak from the ABC has been named Federal President, while Bianca Hall from The Age and Sydney Morning Herald and Kasun Ubayasiri, Senior Lecturer and Program Director of Communication and Journalism at Griffith University and Freelance Documentary Photographer, will take on the roles of Federal Vice-Presidents.

Their appointments follow the resignations of Karen Percy, Erin Delahunty and Kate Ferguson.

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

● Jacob Sacher (Ditzy Dizzard)

Today’s Menu

Charcuterie Boards:

Tapas Bar Home-Made Desserts

Great Range of Cocktails and Mocktails Available.

Teas and Coffees

Don’t forget our Famous Devonshire Tea

As at Sunday, March 23 Your Stars with Kerry Kulkens

SCORES FROM LATEST FINALS

Amateurs

■ Premier Firsts. Finals. Round 3. St Kilda 1st XI 4/264 v Richmond 1st XI 10/260. Carlton 1st XI 10/177 v Camberwell Magpies 1st XI 10/54.

■ Premier Seconds. Grand Final. TwoDay. Melbourne University 2nd XI 10/127 v Fitzroy Doncaster 2nd XI 3/128.

■ Premier Thirds. Grand Final. Two-Day. Prahran 3rd XI 6/199 v Melbourne 3rd XI 10/ 198.

■ Premier Fourths. Grand Final. TwoDay. Melbourne University 4th XI 10/178 v Prahran 4th XI 4/179.

Sub-District

■ North-East First XI. Finals Round2. Two-Day. Preston 1st XI 3/198 v Brunswick 1st XI 9/197. Noble Park 1st XI 10/235 v St Bernard's OC 1st XI 9/160.

■ North-East Second XI. Finals Round2. Two-Day. Mt Waverley 2nd XI 10/82 v Balwyn 2nd XI 10/226. Bayswater 2nd XI 10/85 v Brunswick 2nd XI 4/159.

■ North-West Third XI Division 1. Final. Two Day. Werribee 3rd XI 10/114 v Brunswick 3rd XI 9/116.

■ North-West Third XI Division 2. Final. Two-Day. Taylors Lakes 3rd XI 10/184 v Altona 3rd XI 10/84.

■ North-West Fourth XI Division 1. Finals. Round 2. One-Day. Brunswick 4th XI 9/103 v Hoppers Crossing 4th XI 10/102.

■ North-West Fourth XI Division 2. Finals. Round 2. Two-Day.. Coburg 4th XI 10/ 169 v Strathmore 4th XI 10/134.

■ South-East Third XI Division 1. Finals. Round 2. Two-Day. Oakleigh 3rd XI 10/81 v Caulfield 3rd XI 10/93 & 3/99.

■ South-East Third XI Division 2. inals. Round 2. Two-Day. Elsternwick 3rd XI 10/ 276 v Port Melbourne 3rd XI 10/89.

■ South-East Fourth XI Division 1. Finals. Round 2. Two-Day. Mt Waverley 4th XI 10/203 v Oakleigh 4th XI 10/122.

■ South-East Fourth XI Division 2. Finals. Round 2. Two-Day. Ormond 4th XI 9/ 255 v Noble Park 4th XI 10/187.

■ South-West First XI. Finals. Round 2. Two Day. Hoppers Crossing 1st XI 9/292 v Oakleigh 1st XI 10/253. Brighton 1st XI 8/246 v Caulfield 1st XI 6/266.

■ South-West Second XI. Finals. Round 2. Two-Day. Werribee 2nd XI 7/325 v Hoppers Crossing 2nd XI 10/101. Caulfield 2nd XI 10/162 v Brighton 2nd XI 10/152.

Diamond Valley

■ Barclay Shield. Grand Final. Two-Day. Rosanna 1st XI 9/209 v Bundoora 1st XI 10/ 127.

■ Money Shield. Grand Final. Two-Day. Rosebank 1st XI 9/201 v Eltham 1st XI 10/ 128.

■ Mash Shield. Grand Final. Two-Day. Rivergum 1st XI 10/81 v Mernda 1st XI 10/ 143.

■ B-Grade. Grand Final. Two-Day. North Eltham Wanderers 2nd XI 10/142 v Riverside 2nd XI 10/136.

■ C-Grade. Grand Final. Two-Day. Lower Plenty 2nd XI 10/81 v Research Eltham Collegians 2nd XI 6/106.

■ D-Grade. Grand Final. Two-Day. Bundoora 2nd XI 10/118 v South Morang 2nd XI 10/94.

■ E-Grade. Grand Final. Two-Day. Lower Plenty 3rd XI 8/198 v Banyule 3rd XI 9/149.

■ F1-Grade. Grand Final. Two-Day. Greensborough 4th XI 10/217 v Plenty 3rd XI 10/133.

■ F2-Grade. Grand Final. Two-Day. South Morang 3rd XI 5/123 v Dennis 3rd XI 10/121.

■ F3-Grade. Grand Final. Two-Day. Lower Plenty 4th XI 10/128 v Greensborough 5th XI 9/170.

■ G1 East-Grade. Grand Final. One-Day. Lower Eltham 3rd XI 7/214 v Riverside 6th XI 10/177

■ G1 West-Grade. Grand Final. OneDay. Thomastown United 3rd XI 10/118 v Dennis 4th XI 10/99

■ G2-Grade. Grand Final. One-Day. North Eltham Wanderers 5th XI 4/163 v Macleod 4th XI 10/162.

■ G3-Grade. Grand Final. One-Day. Montmorency 6th XI 5/150 v Diamond Creek 6th XI 7/149.

Eastern

■ Dunstan Shield. Grand Final. Two-Day. Mont Albert 1st XI 10/115 v North Balwyn Bulls 1st XI 5/116.

■ Wright Shield. Grand Final. Two-Day. Deepdene Bears 1st XI 10/151 v East Malvern Tooronga 1st XI 10/159.

■ A Turf. Grand Final. Two-Day. Surrey Hills 1st XI 10/167 v Hawthorn Boroondara 1st XI 10/144.

■ B Turf. Grand Final. Two-Day. Balwyn Saints & Blasters Senior Men 1st XI 5/147 v Richmond Union 1st XI 10/145.

■ C Turf. Grand Final. Two-Day. Bulleen 2nd XI 8/216 v East Malvern Tooronga 2nd XI 10/125

■ D Turf. Grand Final. Two-Day. Edinburgh 2nd XI 9/173 v Richmond City 2nd XI 9/141.

■ E Turf. Grand Final. Two-Day. Mont Albert 3rd XI 3/66 v Hawthorn Boroondara 3rd XI 10/60.

■ F Turf. Grand Final. One-Day. Bulleen 3rd XI 8/133 v Richmond Union 2nd XI 7/134.

■ Jim MacGibbon Shield. Grand Final. Two-Day. Trinity Willison CC 1st XI 10/205 v Burwood Unt. Canterbury Senior Men 1st XI 10/85.

■ Kevin Burt Shield. Grand Final. TwoDay. West Ivanhoe United 1st XI 10/246 v Mount Waverley Catholics 1st XI 9/96.

■ John Menzies and Keith Mackay Shield. Grand Final. Two-Day. North Alphington 9/173 v Toorak-Prahran 2nd XI 9/ 120.

■ A Synthetic. Grand Final. Two-Day. Mulgrave 3rd XI 10/253 v Mount Waverley Uniting 1st XI 10/215.

■ B Synthetic. Grand Final. Two-Day. Glen Waverley 3rd XI 2/85 v St. Pauls Oakleigh Districts 2nd XI 10/82.

■ LOC1. Grand Final. One-Day. Deepdene Uniting 2nd XI 4/200 v Malvern Valley 1st XI 8/199

■ LOC2. Grand Final. One-Day. AYC Harlequins 1st XI 7/168 v Eagles 4th XI 6/199

■ LOC3. Grand Final. One-Day. Salesian 1st XI 9/149 v East Doncaster 5th XI 10/148

■ LOC4. Grand Final. One-Day. Ashwood 3rd XI 10/117 v Salvation Army Waverley 1st XI 10/117

■ LOC5. Grand Final. One-Day. Mount Waverley Uniting 2nd XI 10/182 v Northcote United 2nd XI 5/213

■ LOC6. Grand Final. One-Day. Salesian 2nd XI 0/100 v STC South Camberwell 4th XI 9/99

■ LOC7. Grand Final. One-Day. Mount Waverley Catholics 3rd XI 10/128 v Richmond Union 3rd XI 10/115

■ LOC8. Grand Final. One-Day. Monash University 2nd XI 7/84 v Ashburton Willows 4th XI 10/80

■ LOC9. Grand Final. One-Day. East Doncaster 7th XI 9/123 v Richmond City 4th XI 10/105.

Morn. Peninsula

■ Provincial Firsts. Semi-Finals. TwoDay. Langwarrin 1sts 10/179 v Red Hill 1sts 8/212. Pines 1sts 10/167 v Dromana 1sts 10/ 137.

■ Peninsula Firsts. Semi-Finals. TwoDay. Rosebud Senior Men 1sts 2/149 v Long Island 1sts 10/148. Mornington 1sts 8/167 v Mt Eliza Senior Men 1st X1 9/121.

■ District Firsts. Semi-Finals. Two-Day. Carrum Downs 1sts 10/131 v Boneo 1sts 9/ 133. Balnarring 1sts 6/237 v Flinders 1sts 8/ 235.

■ Sub-District Firsts. Semi-Finals. TwoDay. Tyabb 1sts 8/261 v Tootgarook 1sts 10/ 186. Rye 1sts 10/118 v Frankston YCW 1sts 10/78.

■ Provincial Seconds. Semi-Finals. TwoDay. Pines 2nds 10/153 v Baden Powell 2nds

10/99. Sorrento 2nds 6/239 v Langwarrin 2nds 10/200.

■ Peninsula Seconds. Semi-Finals. TwoDay. Long Island 2nds 1/60 v Mornington 2nds 10/58. Mt Eliza Senior Men 2nd X1 10/157 v Somerville Senior Men 2nds 8/159.

■ District Seconds. Semi-Finals. TwoDay. Crib Point 2nds 10/141 v Balnarring 2nds 10/96. Flinders 2nds 7-d/135 v Baxter 2nds 10/129.

■ Sub-District Seconds. Semi-Finals. Two-Day. Frankston YCW 2nds 6/172 v Ballam Park 2nds 10/171. Delacombe Park 2nds 10/ 229 v Mt Martha 2nds 10/138.

North Metro

■ Jika Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Keon Park CC 1st XI 10/137 v Preston Baseballers CC 1st XI 7/279

■ Jack Quick Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Fiji Victorian CC 1st XI 10/124 v Olympic Colts CC 1st XI 10/194

■ Jack Kelly Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Northern Socials CC 1st XI 10/92 & 6-d/ 136 v Fiji Victorian CC 2nd XI 10/100 & 5/62

■ B-Grade. Grand Final. Two Day. Preston YCW District CC 1st XI 10/215 v Victorian Nepalese CA CC 2/0. Abandoned.

■ C-Grade. Grand Final. Two Day. Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 3rd XI 7/304 v Fairfield CC 2nd XI 10/45

■ Robert Young DODC. One Day. Camrea CC OD 9/220 v Olympic Colts CC OD 10/107.

Ringwood District

■ Bill Wilkins Cup. Grand Final. Two Day. St Andrews 1XI 10/184 v Wonga Park 1XI 10/ 153.

■ Stuart Newey Plate. Grand Final. Two Day. South Warrandyte 1XI 10/251 v Mt Evelyn 1XI 9/268.

■ Steve Pascoe Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Yarra Junction 1XI 7/162 v Norwood 2XI 9-d/158

■ Pat Meehan Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Wonga Park 2XI 10/112 v East Ringwood 2XI 10/174

■ Ian Spencer Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Heatherdale 2XI 10/147 v Warranwood 2XI 9/178

■ David Beatty Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Heathwood 2XI 8/72 v Seville Burras 2XI 10/71

■ Don Smith Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Ainslie Park 3XI 10/99 v Wandin 1XI 10/ 145

■ John Springett Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Yarra Junction 2XI 10/87 v Kilsyth 3XI 10/122

■ A-Grade. Grand Final. Two Day. Croydon North 2XI 10/132 v Powelltown 1XI 10/106

■ B-Grade. Grand Final. Two Day. Mooroolbark 3XI 10/148 v Heatherdale 3XI 6/ 152.

■ C-Grade. Grand Final. Two Day. Chirnside Park 4XI 10/177 v Kilsyth 4XI 6/180

■ D-Grade. Grand Final. Two Day. Mooroolbark 4XI 10/148 v East Ringwood 4XI 9/165

■ E-Grade. Grand Final. Two Day. St Andrews 6XI 10/136 v Wandin 2XI 5/137

South East

■ Longmuir Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. West Bentleigh 1 10/191 v Bentleigh Uniting 1 7/195

■ Woolnough Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Washington Park 1 7/175 v Mackie 1 10/173

■ Quiney Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Omega 2 9/202 v Carnegie South 1 7/205

■ Pullen Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. East Sandringham 2 10/309 v Highett West 1 7/357

Western Suburbs

■ A-Grade. Grand Final. One Day. Williams Landing SC Senior Men 1 8/151 v Tarneit Central D1 8/150.

Presented by Sarah Kulkens, Australia’s Trusted Psychic Family

ARIES: (March 21- April 20)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 3.2.6.5. Lotto Numbers: 3.12.26.24.40.44. You are the one to start things moving like you had to do so many times in the past. Your energy levels are high. Some luck is indicated.

TAURUS: (April 21- May 20)

Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.5. Lotto Numbers: 5.12.23.36.39.8. There is a pleased period coming up on the domestic scene. Even though you think you have just about everything, you can still find something to improve the situation.

GEMINI: (May 21- June 21)

Lucky Colour: Yellow Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.6. Lotto Numbers: 2.13.25.40.5.44. Maybe you need some meditation and relaxation to achieve the inner peace you are after. It seems you will always have to insist that people let you have your way of doing things.

CANCER: (June 22- July 22)

Lucky Colour: Lilac Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 2.3.6.2. Lotto Numbers: 2.13.5.19.7.22. It is an excellent time to achieve your goals, as people will come to look for your company and ask for your advice. Be honest with everyone in your dealings.

LEO: (July 23- August 22)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.3 Lotto Numbers: 2.13.26.24.40.11. You will have to make the first move to solve an old problem. You have received tempting offers on the social scene, and some delightful moments are coming up soon.

VIRGO: (August 23- September 23)

Lucky Colour: Cream Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2.3.2.1. Lotto Numbers: 2.13.26.36.34.40. If you're single and looking for the right one, this could be the time to find a special friend. Your relationships should deepen and become more meaningful if you're already attached.

LIBRA: (September 24- October 23)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.3. Lotto Numbers: 5.12.26.36.30.22. You may have to agree with someone’s ideas even though you do not agree with them. Your holiday or visiting plans could go haywire, but they will be a great time.

SCORPIO: (October 24- November 22)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.2. Lotto Numbers: 2.13.25.40.6.20. You may feel slightly disappointed with someone you work with, which could create problems at your workplace. Socially, this could be the busiest time of the year for you, and many opportunities to improve your love life are coming your way.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23- December 20)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 5.6.9.8. Lotto Numbers: 5.12.26.36.37.44. You could be found out very soon if you have a secret love affair. How you handle the situation will significantly influence your future—busy time at work and play.

CAPRICORN: (December 21- January 19)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 4.6.2.1. Lotto Numbers: 4.12.15.26.34.44. It was an auspicious period financially. More interest in your ideas will benefit your work. Travel could be part of your work situation during this period. Romance looks great.

AQUARIUS: (January 20- February 19)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1.3.2.5. Lotto Numbers: 1.12.15.24.40.22. You could find yourself rubbing shoulders with the famous. Invitations should all be accepted, but keep a tight rein on those purse strings. Why not shine with your personality instead?

PISCES: (February 20- March 20)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 5.6.9.3.

Lotto Numbers: 5.12.26.36.30.11. You have been wishing for something for a long time, and it looks like it could come true very soon. Your vacation plans could have a strange twist, but they will be enjoyable.

GRASSROOTS PROGRAMS ARE BREEDING GROUND

■ Racing Victoria as reinforced its commitment to fostering a love of the horse and to creating new pathways into the thoroughbred racing industry by establishing partnerships with a range of grassroots programs, including the 2024-25 National Pony Racing Series.

RV has joined forces with Thoroughbred Industry Careers to sponsor and support the popular pony racing series, which was at The Valley on March 22 on 3 Point Motors William Reid Stakes Day for Victoria’s State Qualifying Day.

In the lead-up to the qualifiers, close to 40 Pony Club members aged between nine and 15 gathered at Ballarat on March 8-9 to learn about horse care and welfare, safe riding and the suite of career options available in the thoroughbred racing industry.

As well as partnering with TIC to support the series, which culminates with the National Finals in Queensland this June, RV has also signed an agreement with Pony Club Victoria to provide coaching and support for its Ride To Time disciplines.

The Ride To Time program, which teaches skills and techniques aligned to trackwork riding, includes a series of statewide heats culminating in a final at The Valley this September.

RV has extended its partnership with the Box Hill Institute, which sees TAFE students on its equine studies course given experiential learning in simulated racing stable environments at Pakenham and Geelong, along with behind-thescenes tours on racedays.

As part of the program, the students complete their minimum requirements for licensing as a stablehand in Victoria. The partnership saw 120 students provided practical education in 2024 and this month a new group of 100 students commenced their studies for 2025.

Aaron Morrison, RV’s Chief Executive, said: “One of the key pillars of the racing industry is the love our participants show for the thoroughbreds in their care, and that love is forged from an early age which is why we are delighted to support these grassroots programs.

“The education these youngsters receive and the skills the programs equip them with will stand them in good stead should they wish to pursue one of the many career opportunities available in the racing industry.

“The National Pony Racing Series has garnered widespread interest over recent years and we’re pleased to support the Victorian qualifiers.”

- Racing Victoria

Jump-outs enhanced

■ Racing Victoria has announced that all Victorian jump-outs have now been integrated into a new enhanced and standardised industry production and broadcast model, delivering important benefits to owners and punters.

This follows the addition all jump-outs conducted by the Victoria Racing Club at Flemington and thus completes the full network of Victorian tracks now on the new standardised platform.

All jump-outs in Victoria are now filmed consistently by Racing.com to ensure standardised

professional vision, whilst race callers have also been introduced to each set to narrate the action and make it easier for viewers to identify horses and track their performance.

Process enhancements over recent months now mean that the colours worn by each horse in jump-outs are accurately reflected in results on Racing.com given they often differ from racing colours.

Jump-out results and form are now also accessible within horse profiles on the Racing Australia website, as per official trials.

The broadcasting enhancements are all part of an improved, centralised industry service being produced by RV through Racing.com in response to owner and punter feedback. There are also efficiency benefits and cost savings for the industry as part of the new solution.

As part of the upgrade, Racing.com has launched a dedicated online hub which serves as a gateway to the replays of all Victorian jumpouts. The jump-outs hub is accessible from the home page on both the Racing.com website and app.

Jump-outs are available to view on Racing.com as replays shortly after they have been conducted. The vision is accessible via three primary options – initially via the jumpouts hub and then via the racing calendar and a horse’s form profile once the results are loaded.

With jump-out entries, fields and results administered by the host Club and then communi-

cated to RV, the expectation is that the formal results of each set are published on Racing.com before 5pm on the day of their conduct.

RV’s jump-outs model helps to minimise costs for owners, whilst at the same time providing important insight into a horse’s preparation to assist punters.

RV Chief Executive, Aaron Morrison, said: “There are over 350 sets of jump-outs across Victoria annually. They are an important part of a horse’s training regime and provide valuable insight into how a horse is progressing in its preparation.

“The jump-out model is a strong feature of Victorian racing, which is highly valued by participants and owners given the flexibility benefits and cost-efficiency as compared to more expensive official trials.

“We have worked hard to deliver a cost-ef-

fective jump-outs service that minimises costs to owners, whilst maximising opportunities for punters and connections to engage with the progress of their favourite horses.

“We’ve been working with our Clubs, Racing.com and TRP across the past year to enhance the presentation of jump-outs and reached an important milestone in building an enhanced, centralised industry model with the introduction of Flemington jump-outs last week.

“We will continue to review our presentation to ensure it remains a value-add for owners and punters. This includes some upcoming enhancements to our web platforms which will allow us to feature new and more engaging content, new features, and personalisation, based on input from stakeholders and customers. I look forward to providing further updates in coming months,” Mr Morrison said.

- Racing Victoria

Drought relief

■ Racing Victoria has announced a drought relief support package for eligible licensed trainers and acknowledged post-racing program providers directly caring for Victorian registered thoroughbreds in one of the 12 State Government defined drought areas in Victoria:Ararat, City of Greater Geelong, Colac Otway, Corangamite, Glenelg, Golden Plains, Moyne, Pyrenees, Southern Grampians, Surf Coast, Warrnambool, West Wimmera (southern half – postcodes 3312, 3317, 3318 and 3319)

Successful drought relief support package applicants will receive a one time payment of $500 per Stud Book registered thoroughbred (up to a maximum of $10,000 per individual recipient) for the provision of feed for pasture fed thoroughbreds. The thoroughbreds must be in the direct care of the licensed trainer or acknowledged post-racing provider; and not be actively in race training, or the horse may be retired but still in the care of the licensed trainer.

● ● Aaron Morrison, Racing Victoria Chief Executive

MONDAY NIGHT MEETING AT COBRAM

■ It was pleasing to see the return of a Monday meeting on March 24 when Cobram held a small but neat six event card.

Kaarimba trainer Darryl Hill was victorious with heavily supported lightly raced 4Y0 Betterthancheddar-Pretty Interest mare Look Away in the VHRC / Woodlands Stud 3Y0 and Older Maiden Pace over 1670 metres.

Driven by Laura Wilson, Look Away having her third outing at the races was trapped in the open from gate two after Coral Cays and Matt Newberry showed great speed to lead from gate three.

Surging to the front in the back straight on the final occasion, Look Away raced by wife Jeanette recorded an impressive 11.5 metre margin over Bagley Boy (one/one from gate four), with first starter Starlet coming off a three wide trail last lap from the rear flashing home for third a half neck away. The mile rate 1-58.5.

■ Echuca owner/breeders Shane Gloury and Susan Hunter were successful with 4Y0 VincentJennas Highview mare Sassy Gabby in the 1670 metre VHRC / Rich River Golf Club Pace.

Trained by Susan and driven by Josh Duggan, Sassy Gabby was driven hard from the pole to retain the front running before being rated to perfection and defying all challengers to score by 2.7 metres in advance of a ‘death seating’ Chenin Beach (gate five) and Vincent Grange (gate two) which trailed the winner using the sprint lane for third a half head away. The mile rate 1-56.6.

■ The VHRC / Aldebaran Park Trotters Mobile over 2170 metres saw Kilmore owner/ breeder Billy Milner in the winners stall after 4Y0 Used To Me-Auravalley gelding Wallace at start number 30 broke his maiden status returning a 2-05.5 mile rate.

Driven by Ellen Tormey, Wallis (gate three) settled three back along the markers as polemarker Montana Muscle led easily.

Extricated from the inside to make the final bend four wide, Wallis rattled home at a great rate to gain the day by 2.8 metres from Kalarney Prince (gate four) which raced exposed. Starlight Red having start 179 (17 wins – 27 placings) one/two from gate five – three wide last lap was third a head away.

■ Leeton trainer Michael Towers and daughter Mikayla made the trip to Cobram a profitable one after snaring a stable double with two Kiwi breds – 9Y0 Auckland Reactor-Mikana gelding The Banker taking the VHRC / Mazzetti Painting Pace over 2170 metres and 7Y0 Rock N Roll Heaven-Laura Lace mare Mop the VHRC / GBL Properties Pace over 1670 metres.

The Banker settling mid-field from gate three on the second line sprinted sharply three wide in the last lap to lead on turning, accounting for Mirakao Shark (gate five second line) which followed him home by 8.1 metres in 2-00.8. Beryls Boots (one/three from the extreme draw) was third 7.7 metres back after going forward at the bell to race exposed.

Mop (one/three from gate six) won in similar style after trailing Chansue (gate two second line) ahead of her forward in the last lap. Sprinting brilliantly Mop raced to the front out wide on the final bend and shot clear to defeat the poleline pacemaker Epic Orion by 5.2 metres. Chansue battled on gamely for third a half head away. The mile rate a slick 1-58.

Snared trifecta

■ Moyreisk’s Ainsworth family are regulars at most Swan Hill meetings and snared the trifecta at last Tuesday’s (March 24) interesting seven race card when 8Y0 Danny Bouchea-Palkia mare Boutika defeated Night Whisperer and Singara Ted in the 2240 metre 2024 Trainer Of The Year Julie Douglas Trotters Handicap. Trained by Barry Ainsworth for wife Katrina, Boutika driven by Kerryn Manning stepped beautifully to lead from 10 metres which was actually the front line as the lone front marker Querencia was scratched.

Eased to allow Night Whisperer (10m also trained by Barry with Jordan Leedham in the sulky) to ease off her back when trailing to assume control, the stablemates settled one-two on the markers with Singara Ted (10m) trained and driven by Ashley Ainsworth following the pair.

Harness Racing

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker

The race was to change complexion racing for the bell when Jack Laugher eased Luvski (20m) away from four pegs to race exposed with stablemate Salski (30m – five pegs) latching to her back before Immediately being taken three wide to race in the open by James Herbertson, but was struggling a long way out as the three stablemates were left to fight out the finish with Night Whisperer giving a sight at big odds.

Angling off his back halfway up the running, Boutika raced away to register a 7.8 metre margin over The Night Whisperer and Singara Ted which made no impression on the pair 14.5 metres back but easily held third. Another of the Ainsworth team Baarlinee (10m) threw away her chance when galloping shortly after the start and was tailed off. The mile rate 2-01.6.

■ It was a quinella to Horsham’s Aaron Dunn in the Make Your Will @ Beck Legal Pace over 2240 metres with smart 5Y0 A Rocknroll DanceThe Waratah gelding Neatntidy was a strong victor.

Driven by stable ’apprentice’ Ryan Backhouse, Neatntidy was eased off the gate from outside the front line to settle mid-field before going forward to race outside the leader and heavily supported odds-on stablemate Ruff Nut (gate four).

Taking over shortly after, Neatntidy toyed with his rivals, accounting for Ruff Nut along the sprint lane by 3.7 metres after being given every chance. Dieing Art starting solo on the second line also well backed, was third 1.1 metres away after going forward from the tail to race outside the pacemaker at the bell. The mile rate 1-56.8.

■ Aaron’s high quality Art Major-Ark Monroe entire Dee Roe raced in partnership with Helen Friend was victorious in the fast class race of the night - the 65 or better Beck Legal Will Power Pace over 1750 metres returning a brilliant mile rate of 1-52.9.

Quickly away from inside the second line to settle at the tail as Sunraysia hope Prioritise driven by Ryan Backhouse led from gate three, Dee Roe commenced a three wide forward move solo in the last lap and although pushed wider on the final bend as those inside him came out, class prevailed as Dee Roe fished full of running to score by a metre from the leader Invitation Only and Joey Thompson’s Joe Got Rolled (one/two) down the outside fence who was 1.2 meres away third in a thrilling finish.

Two meetings

■ Two meetings Wednesday with Hamilton in the day and Bendigo at night.

The trotters took the limelight at Hamilton with the first three races on the program dedicated to that gait.

It was a great day for Scotts Creek’s O’Connor family with 24 year old Nicholas driving two of the three winners. Firstly the TK Landscaping P/L Maiden Trotters Mobile over 1660 metres with 4Y0 Orlando Vici-Aldebaran Kid gelding Ridethelightning which he trains, while seasoned 6Y0 Skyvalley-Peters Passion gelding Old Villa Boy trained by Anthony landed the Hamilton Laundry & Dry Cleaners Trotters Mobile over 2160 metres.

Settling at the tail from a solo second line draw, Ridethelightning gave chase along the

back straight before running home strongly to record a good 3.8 metre margin over a deathseating Cash Out (gate three) and the leader Aldebaran Buddy (gate four) returning a 1-59.9 mile rate. Old Villa Boy starting from gate six, was sent forward to race exposed after My High Peak (gate four) had crossed My Mother Said (gate three) with Jilliby Dreamlover (gate five) one/one.

Despite racing parked, Villa Boy raced to the front on turning to defeat Jilliby Dreamlover which had dropped to the back of the leader when My Mother Said galloped.

Hampering Jilliby Dreamlover after being held up by the weakening leader, Jilliby Dreamlover using the sprint lane couldn’t make up the ground to finish second 3.4 metres back, with Sonarmi Joh also using the sprint lane from four pegs for third a further three metres back. The mile rate 1-59.6.

■ The 2160 metre Become A Club Member Mobile was taken out by Ararat trainer/driver Michael Bellman’s in-form 6Y0 TennotrumpGloriadon gelding Blackrange Glory at the remarkable odds of $3.60.

Enjoying a sweet one/one trip from a solo second line draw as Brooke Hansen’s heavily supported Just Abit Dusty led from gate six, Blackrange Glory after easing three wide on the final bend was too strong at the finish for a game Mattyo, greeting the judge by 1.6 metres in two minutes even. Just Abit Dusty was 10.1 metres away third.

■ At Bendigo, 90-year-old Lockington trainer Ted Jepsen who loves his harness racing was successful with Soho Tribeca-Meghan Suits Her filly Soho Playgirl in the 1650 Huntly Lifestyle Estate By Lincoln Place Pace. Raced by Ted, wife Faye, daughter Nikki and husband Scott Shegog, Soho Playgirl driven by Laura Wilson went forward from outside the front line to race in the open outside Tophut Johny (gate six) proving too tough for her rivals.

Dashing away on the final bend, Soho Playgirl scored by 2.6 metres in a rate of 1-55.6 over Salsboy which had followed the pacemaker from gate four getting clear in plenty of time to give chase. Bettorsweetvictory (four pegs from inside the second line) used the sprint lane for third 3.1 metres away. The winner was bred by Dean and Blanche Poole.

■ Toolern Vale trainer/part-owner Vince Dicocco and partners the La Famiglia Racing Syndicate and Ian Caruana were victorious with Bling It On-Zindel gelding Mighty Bling in the 2150 metre Great Ocean Road Real Estate 3Y0 Maiden Pace.

With leading provincial reinsman Jack Laugher in the sulky, Mighty Bling (gate four) was caught three wide before moving outside the leader Hitch To His Star (gate six) and showing great tenacity, outstayed the leader to gain the day by a half neck in a mile rate of 2-00.2. Miki Sing (gate two on the second line) was third 2.3 metres back after racing three wide from mid-field in the last lap.

■ Another Toolern Vale winner was John Justice’s 3Y0 Love You-Our Sunny Rose gelding Muskee who snared the Bendigo Ski Boat Centre Trotters Mobile at Supertab odds (fixed) of $23.00. Raced by long time stable client Graeme Riley, Muskee driven by Ewa Justice at start number six enjoyed a cosy trip from the pole trailing the well supported leader Aetos Dynamis (gate two).

Gaining a freak inside run approaching the home turn, Muskee raced clear in the straight to record a 1.9 metre victory in advance of Dossier (three pegs from gate two on the second line), with Black And Gold 2.2 metres away third after racing parked from gate five. The mile rate 1-58.7.

At Kilmore

■ Kilmore raced on Thursday with a big nine race program and one of the most impressive winners on the night was much travelled Kialla trainer Clive Dalton’s 5Y0 Follow The Stars-Im Stylish mare Im In Style who landed the 2180 metre Beraldo Coffee 3Y0 & Older Maiden Pace.

Driven by Chris Alford, Im In Style (gate three) had little difficulty in crossing Taken By Wine (gate two) shortly after the start and rated

Sulky Snippets Sulky Snippets

This Week

■ The time honored Mildura Cup Carnival commences on Tuesday with the final the following Friday – other meetings for the week are : Wednesday – Maryborough/Bendigo, Thursday – Ballarat, Friday – Melton, Saturday – Melton, Sunday – Ararat, Monday –Warragul, Tuesday – Shepparton.

to perfection as expected by the champion Bolinda based reinsman, held too many guns for Hody Moke who was exceptional after missing away from gate four which had moved three wide to trail Parlezvous Patty (gate five – four pegs – three wide last lap) from mid-field in the last lap to be four wide in the home straight. Parlezvous Patty battled on strongly for third. The margins 6.7 by 3.6 metres in a mile rate of 2-04.8.

■ The C and M Build Group Pace over 1690 metres saw ‘on fire’ Heathcote owner/trainer Terry French successful with 7Y0 Auckland Reactor-Village Guest gelding Playnice in 157.7.

Driven by Murchison’s Ryan Sanderson, Playnice starting inside the second line enjoyed a cosy trip three pegs as Rocket Me led from gate three with polemarker Miki Mark trailing. Coming away from the inside to be one/two running into the final bend, Playnice angling wide in the straight ran home best to prevail by 1.4 metres from Sports Liner (gate five – one/one –three wide last lap) and Miki Mark along the sprint lane who was 1.4 metres away third.

■ Daylesford trainer Mick Barby and wife Anne-Maree Conroy (driver) provided 7Y0 Love You-My Valerie mare Amour Maternal to record an impressive victory in the 1690 metre O’Brien Electrical Trotters Mobile.

Raced by the pair, Amour Maternal settled mid-field in the moving line from gate five on the second line as Charlie Walker (gate six) led but was given no peace by Atego Dawn starting outside the front line by Col Du Granon (gate four) and Lizzies Son from the extreme draw three wide which crossed to lead for the last lap.

In a race full of action, Amour Maternal let rip approaching the home turn and finished full of running to defeat a game Lizzies Son by 2.2 metres. Atego Dawn was also courageous when third 5.2 metres away. The mile rate 2-00.1.

■ Nulla Vale trainer/driver Steve Cleave was successful in the 1690 metre Momentum Gaming 3Y0 & Older Maiden Pace. with Warrawee Needy-Jessies Girl filly Divine Tilly. In a race that changed complexion over the concluding stages, Divine Tilly raced by a huge group of owners including the trainer ran home from last to gain the day after the leader and first starter Smalltownsmokeshow (gate three) looked to have the race in her keeping galloped in the home straight.

Tuivasa (gate two) after galloping shortly after the start ran home late for second, with Loubell (gate six – one/one – three wide last lap third. The margins a half neck by 2 metres in a 2-02.3 mile rate.

Geelong feature

■ The feature at Geelong on Friday was the $20,000 Hoyts Food Geelong Rocket, a 1609 metre speed test for seasoned pacers – the victor being Andy and Kate Gath’s multiple race winner Catch A Wave, Eased back from gate six to settle three back in the running line with only Triple Eight behind him as Rocknroll Hammer and James Herbertson led from gate three. Going forward three wide solo late in the back straight, class prevailed as Catch A Wave finished hard to blouse the leader by a head in brilliant 1-51.9. Stablemate Yambukian was a great third 4.9 metres back after racing exposed from gate five.

(Back load Specialist. Conditions apply)

24 HOURS7 DAYS A WEEK

(Scrap bin available)

Classifieds 9489 2222

Classified Information

DISPLAY CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Paid display advertising is available for $20 per column centimetre. Sample prices: Full-Page Ad (37cm h x 8 cols w), $5920. Half-Page Ad (18cm h x 8 cols w), $2880. Quarter-Page Ad (18cm h x 4 cols w), $1440. All ads are pre-paid at time of booking. Pre-pay by Card: Visa, Mastercard, American Express. Pre-pay by EFT to 033091 260131 (Local Media Pty Ltd, Westpac, Eltham).

LINE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Paid line advertising is available for $20 for first 20 words, then $1 per word thereafter. All ads are prepaid at time of booking. Pre-pay by Card: Visa, Mastercard, American Express. Pre-pay by EFT to 033091 260131 (Local Media Pty Ltd, Westpac, Eltham).

STATEWIDE, MELBOURNEWIDE

Classified Ads are read across Victoria, included in all online (digital) editions of The Local Paper and Melbourne Observer. Fresh online editions are published weekly on Wednesdays, February-December (with exception of Easter Wednesday). You can have Digital Editions emailed free to you - register at www.FreePaper.com.au Print editions are published fortnightly on Wednesdays, February-December.

ONLINE EDITION DATES - 2025

Go directly to www.LocalPaper.com.au or www.MelbourneObserver.com.au to read digital editions (exact replicas of print editions), free. Online edition dates in 2025 are: Feb. 5, Feb. 12, Feb. 19, Feb. 26, Mar. 5, Mar. 12, Mar. 19, Mar. 26, Apr. 2, Apr. 9, Apr. 16, Apr. 30, May 7, May 14, May 21, May 28, Jun. 4, Jun. 11, Jun. 28, Jun. 25, Jul. 2, Jul. 9, Jul. 16, Jul. 23, Jul., 30, Aug. 6, Aug. 13, Aug. 10, Aug. 27, Sep. 3, Sep. 10, Sep. 17, Sep. 24, Oct. 1, Oct. 8, Oct. 15, Oct. 22, Oct. 29, Nov. 5, Nov. 12, Nov. 19, Nov. 26, Dec. 3, Dec. 10. Lodge ads by 4pm Friday prior to publication.

PRINT EDITION DATES - 2025

‘Hard copies’ available free through a network of outlets across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and selected country areas. Print edition dates in 2025 are: Feb. 5, Feb. 19, Mar. 5, Mar. 19, Apr. 2, Apr. 16, Apr. 30, May 14, May 28, Jun. 11, Jun. 25, Jul. 9, Jul. 23, Aug. 6, Aug. 20, Sep. 3, Sep. 17, Oct. 1, Oct. 15, Oct. 29, Nov. 12, Nov. 26, Dec. 10. Lodge your ads by 4pm Friday prior to publication.

PRINT EDITION AREAS

Eastern Suburbs Edition. Boroondara (north), Knox-Sherbrooke, Manningham, Maroondah, Monash, Whitehorse. Lilydale and Yarra Valley Edition. Healesville, Lilydale, Mount Evelyn, Warburton. Mitchell Strathbogie Edition. Avenel, Beveridge, Broadford, Euroa, Kilmore, Nagambie, Seymour, Wallan, Wandong-Heathcote Junction. North-West Edition. Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Hume, Maribyrnong, Melton, Merri-bek, Moonee Valley. Moorabool, Wyndham Northern Suburbs Edition. Banyule, Darebin (north - Preston-Reservoir), Darebin (southNorthcote, Thornbury), Nillumbik (urban), Whittlesea (urban). Regional Edition. Mansfield, Murrindindi (Alexandra, Kinglake, Yea), Nilllumbik (rural), Whittlesea (rural). Southern Cross Weekly Edition. Bayside, Boroondara (south), Glen Eira, Kingston, Melbourne, Port Phillip, Stonnington, Yarra. South-East. Cardinia, Casey, Frankston, Greater Dandenong, Mornington Peninsula.

FREE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Free non-commercial classified advertising is available for individual readers, selling iitems. Your ad can be up to 40 words. This service is available at the sole discretion of the Editor. Ads will appear for up to 4 weeks. Free ads are not available to businesses or organisations. Deadline: 4pm Fridays prior to Print Edition. You can lodge your Free Ad by:

• WEB: www.AdvertiseFree.com.au

• EMAIL: editor@LocalPaper.com.au

• POST: Mail the form (available in this newspaper) to PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095. Free Ads will not be accepted by phone.

SOME ADVERTISING RULES

• All car advertisers must supply registration or Vehicle Identification Numbers. By law, we are unable to publish listings without those details.

• Any person or business advertising to sell or give away a dog, cat, puppy or kitten in Victoria must be enrolled on the Pet Exchange Register to obtain a source number, and must include this source number along with each animal's microchip number in all advertisements.

• Advertisers should be honest in their dealings. Claims should be true, accurate and based on reasonable grounds.

FREE non-commercial classified advertising is available for individual readers, selling iitems. Your ad can be up to 40 words. This service is available at the sole discretion of the Editor. Ads will appear for up to 4 weeks. Free ads are not available to businesses or organisations. Deadline: 4pm Fridays prior to Print Edition. You can lodge your Free Ad by:

• WEB: www.Advertise Free.com.au

• EMAIL: editor@Local Paper.com.au

• POST: Mail the form (available in this newspaper) to PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095. Free Ads will not be accepted by phone.

ALL CAR advertisers must supply registration or Vehicle Identification Numbers. By law, we are unable to publish listings without those details.

FREE PHOTO ADS

tall. Solid moulde, EC. $475. Broadford. Owen, 0434 037 941. N-Q

BED. Single. Electric folable with massage and remote control. Adjustable back, legs and height. New Aspire mattress. German motor. EC. $500. Diamond Creek. 0401 473 565.N-Q

CHAIRS. Two, Cushions. $50. Keon Park. 9469 4558. N-Q CANE BASKETS. Two, Large. GC. $30. Keon Park. 9469 4558. N-Q

DOG KENNEL. Plastic. Grey colour. Very clean. never used as kennel. GC. $10. Purchaser to collect. Doreen. 9717 3465. N-Q

GARDEN ROCKS. Approx. 200mm-150mm for landscaping. Approx. 260. Free. Nunawading, 0407 696 343. N-Q

LATEST ADS

BASSINET. Chrome frame and high chair. VGC. $25 for both. Thomastown. 0428 833 398. N-Q

PRIVATE SELLERS can have a free 40-word ‘For Sale’ ad - plus a single colour photo - in The Local Paper Classifieds to sell their items. Your free ad will appear in all editions of The Local Paper, covering all suburbs of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula, and selected Victorian country areas. Your free ad will appear in up to 4 issues. There are no charges, no commissions. T&Cs apply. Lodge your ad at: www.AdvertiseFree.com.au SAWS.

BRICKS. 100 clean, red. Plus halves. $50. Keon Park. 9469 4558.N-Q

CAMPER TRAILER. Used once. Slide out kiychen plus extras. VGC. $4300. Dromana. 5981 4517. N-Q

CLARE Circulatuon Stimulator. VGC. 150 ONO. Frankston. 9789 9634. N-Q

COLLECTORS Melway Nos 9, 20, 33. Wax matches (234) in book, 17 loose. VFL Records, finals, mainly Richmond. Small and large. Phone cards. Vatious prices. Box Hill South., 9890 7904.N-Q

FORD AUII Fairport V8 Sedan. Original.Runs well. No rust. Good tyres, new screen, bring your mechanic or RACV test, RWC. Reg 7/27. 2AN3XE. VCG. $8000. Seymour. 0419 881 573. N-Q

GARDEN ROCKS. Small and medium. All sizes. All free. Also 12 blue stone pitches. All free. Bulleen. 9850 5128. N-Q

PARTS for Ford AUIIV8. Secondhand. Struts. New parts: ball joints, 2 boxes of parts. VGC. $1000. Seymour 0419 881 573. N-Q

TABLE. Large solid timber, dining room table, 2100mm x 1000mm. Plus six chairs. GC. $30. Yea. 0419 109 887. N-Q

TABLE. Round. Polished timber. 100cm diameter. Seats 4. VGC. $90. Mill Park. 9436 8935. N-Q

NEWSPAPERS. Herald; end of First World War; start of the Second World War. Original papers, worn. Offers. Seymour. 0419 881 573. F-M

41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,. 47, 48, 49, 51, 52. GC. $3. Mill Park. 0452 665 276. H-O

OLD STAMPS, tools, tobacco bins, Telephone, pocket knifes, cigarette lighters, LP records, first covers and more. Australia decimal and pre-decimal bank notes. Used. Prices negot. Thomastown. 0425 733 890. F-M

PICTURE FRAMES. 40 large to small. Various styles. VGC. All only $70. Keon Park. 9469 4558. N-Q

PORTABLE SAUNA. Top condition. $150. Alphington. 0401 226 114. F-M

SHEEP. 60 mixed breed ewes, been running with rams, have ear tags. Friendly, great lawnmowers, saves mowing the paddocks and helps reduce fire risk. Can deliver. GC. $130. Deanside. 0426 397 741N-Q

TYRE CHANGERS. Manual. Little used, complete with instructions, purchaser to collect. GC. $90. Doreen. 9717 3465 N-Q

TRAIN BOOKS. Wide variety of books and pamphlets to all types of trains. All prices negotiable. Research. 9437 1253. N-Q

GROUPS can advertise their upcoming events in The Local Paper, without advertising charges. Go to the What’s On - Free Ad Form section at the www.Local Paper.com.au website

Sellng due to owner pass- ing away. GC. $1000. Thomastown. 0421 819 286.F-M

WHEELCHAIR. Manual. Evoke 2 Aspire 450mm. new, never been used as too small for subject. Foldable and extremely light for easy transport. Well made, Top of the range. EC. $600. Diamond Creek. 0401 473 565.N-Q

PUBLIC NOTICES

GOD’S

Saturday, June 14. 9.30am. Deakin University, Burwood. Rusden Theatre. Free parking and entry to large plant and allied goods market. Inspiring speakers: James Wall, Heidi Martin, Vasili Kanidiadis, $25, All welcome. plantzia@bigpond.com N-Q

BANK Money Boxes.

Negotiable. Mill Park. 9436 8935. H-O

One bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, laundry and living area. Private entrance. Price includes utilities (power/gas/water). VGC. $300 per week. Diamond Creek. 0404

CHAINS Bible College Australia; In depth Bible study and online Biblical studies. 0447 515 450 N-Q

CHURCH invites faithful followwees of Christ to attend the New Testament local Passover night service. Alfredton, Ballarat. To secure your seat, 0419 327 366. N-P

ANGEL STATUE with adjustable wings. Approx. one metre