LOVELL PUSHES FOR DROUGHT SUPPORT
■ Northern Victoria MLC Wendy Lovell continues to pressure the State Government for drought assistance for local farmers.
“I have been contacted by farmers from across northern Victoria who are deeply distressed that there is no assistance available to them,” Ms Lovell said.
“Drought relief not only needs to be increased, it also needs to be direct. The current Victorian program, which supplies co-contribution grants for on-farm infrastructure and grain storage, is a support package for future droughts, but Victorian farmers actually need a support package for this drought.
“Animals are starving. The price of hay and feed is going through the roof, and what farmers need right now is direct financial assistance to help feed livestock, and transport subsidies.
“They also need the State Government to implement regulatory changes to facilitate the quicker and more abundant delivery of vital feed for starving animals.
“Drought assistance needs to cover more areas, but it also needs to have an increase in funding. $29 million is just not enough.
“Even South Australia has committed $73 million. The government’s tripling of the fire services levy for farmers at this very time is cruel and should be reversed,” Ms Lovell told the Legislative Council.
GARY POLLARD AWARDED OAM
■ “For service to the community of Yea” is the citation for Gary Robert Pollard’s Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division, announced on Monday (June 9) in the King’s Birthday Honours.
Pharamcist in Yea and Seymour, Mr Pollard continues much community work including his role as Finance, Audit and Risk Committee Chair of the Yea and District Memorial Hospital.
He was Vice-Chairman, since 2018, and a Board Member, since 2015.
Mr Pollard has been Yea Golf Club President since 2020, and is a Life Member.
He was Chair of Murrindindi Community Enterprise Pty Ltd, 2010-2019. That company operates the Bendigo Bank community branch in yea.
His other community involvements include:
■ Member, Yea Recreation Reserve Committee of Management
■ Former Chair, Yea Tourism Association
■ Inaugural Member, Yea Rail Trail Steering Committee, 2005.
■ Former Member, Yea Streetscape Committee, c1990s.
■ Chairman, Yea Sewerage Authority, 31 years.
■ Life Member, Apex Club of Yea, since 1989.
■ Life Member, Yea and District Cricket Association He was Yea Shire President in 1981-1983.
● ● ● ● Wendy Lovell MLC
The Local Paper
‘TOO LITTLE, TOO LATE’
Local Briefs
Footy resumes
■ Division 1 and 2 footballers in the Northern league took a bye last weekend for the king’s Birthday weekend.
Matches resume this Saturday (June 14). Division 1: North Heidelberg v Banyule, West Preston Lakeside v Montmorency, Bundoora v Greensborough, Heidelberg v Hurstbridge.
Division 2: Lower Plenty v St Mary’s, Old Paradians v Thomastown, Panton Hill v Diamond Creek, Whittlesea v Northcote Park.
In the Outer East, both Premier Division and Division 1 had a bye last Saturday (June 7). Matches resume this Saturday (June 14): Premier Division: AMonbulk v Officer, Gembrook Cockatoo v Healesville, Upwey Tecoma v Wandin, Olinda Ferny Creek v Emerald, Woori Yallock v Mt Evelyn. Diviksion 1: Yarra Glen v Warburton Millgrove, Yea v Powelltown, Pakenham v Seville, Alexandra v Belgrave, Yarra Junction: Bye.
Pedestrian struck
■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage following a serious injury collision in Craigieburn last Wednesday night (June 4).
It is believed a car struck a pedestrian on Craigieburn Rd about 6.50pm.
The pedestrian, a 76-year-old Craigieburn man, was transported to hospital with lifethreatening injuries.
The alleged driver of the vehicle, a 49year-old Mernda man, was interviewed by detectives and released pending further investigation.
Exact circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be determined and the investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone who witnessed the collision, has CCTV, dashcam footage or any other information that could assist police with their enquiries is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
■ Northern Victoria MLC Wendy Lovell says that the updated drought support package announced by the State Government is too little, too late.
The announcement followed a week of intense pressure on the Government in Parliament, where the Liberal Party moved a motion calling for increased drought assistance.
“Numerous members raised concerns about the level of drought assistance, and joined my call for the Victorian Government to extend the support package to all municipalities in the Northern Victoria region,” Ms Lovell said.
“The package announced will offer some assistance for water cartage, and will extend support to all farmers statewide, including in Northern Victoria
“But the package will not provide any direct financial assistance for feed or fodder delivery, nor subsidise water supply for agricultural purposes.
“Prolonged protests by CFA volunteers and farmers have forced the Allan Labor Government to accept that tripling the emergency services tax on farmers is cruel and heartless – but they had to be dragged kicking and screaming to this backflip, and the pause on the tax increase will not last forever.
“The current support package, which requires farmers to make a co-contribution toward on-farm infrastructure for water and grain storage, is a package to prepare for future droughts – but farmers need support for this drought.
“I will keep fighting to scrap the tax for good, and to get substantial direct assistance to farmers in need right now,” Ms Lovell said.
Euroa MLA Annabelle Cleelamd said:
“Thanks to strong community advocacy, farmers will now also receive a one-year pause on the increased Emergency Services Levy
“This is a hard-won step forward and a credit to the many emergency service volunteers, farmers, and community members who stood united — including those who made their voices heard on the steps of Parliament
“Our local councils and communities have stood firmly behind you, and this outcome shows that your advocacy matters.
“However, this is not the end of the road.
“The tax remains in place and, if fully implemented, will place a significant burden on regional ratepayers across Victoria
“What’s more concerning is that much of
● ● ● ● Wendy Lovell MLC the additional revenue isn’t reaching our local brigades, many of which are still waiting for essential upgrades, vehicles, and support.
“A Liberals and Nationals Government has committed to scrapping this tax when elected next year,” Ms Cleeland said.
Noerthern Victoria MLC Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell said she has had personal representations on the issue from the mayors of Mansfield and Murrindindi Shires, and was in receipt of a letter forwarded to Agriculture Minister Rod Spence and other members of parliament signed by the leaders of the member councils of the Hume Region Local Government Network
Local People
It’s an honour
■ King’s Birthday honours have been announced:
Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division
■ Mr Andrew Roy Dwyer, Jamieson. For significant service to the tourism industry in Victoria, and to the community.
Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division
■ Ms Nola Maree Evans, Bonnie Doon. For service to the community of Bonnie Doon.
■ Mr John Alexander Hearsch, Heathcote Junction. For service to the rail industry.
■ Mr Bruce Charles Holland, Diamond Creek. For service to the communities of Northeast Melbourne.
■ Mr Geoffrey Michael McIlvenna, South Morang. For service to the community through charitable organisations.
■ Mr Donald George Paterson, Nulla Vale. For service to the community of the Mitchell Shire.
■ Mrs Joy Marilyn Pitts, Wattle Glen. For service to the community through emergency response organisations.
■ Mr Gary Robert Pollard, Yea. For service to the community of Yea.
$1.2m Lotto win
■ Two lifelong friends from Chirnside Park scoring more than $1.2 million in Saturday Lotto with numbers they’ve been playing for over 30 years.
DRY CONDITIONS ‘VERY WORRYING’
■
Council Koriella Ward
Paul Hildebrand told the latest Shire meeting about the Farming in Unpredictable Conditions Seminar held in conjunction with Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority and Murrindindi Shire Council.
“This seminar was very well run with excellent speakers talking about many different aspects of farming, animal nutrition, comparing feed quality and cost, the implementation of best practice regarding feeding stock, water quality and quantity and metal health,” Cr Hildebrand said.
“Our Mayor Daimen Gallagher talked about how the Council is working to support the farmers in our shire.
“He covered current issues, like the Emergency Services Levy, and is working with other shires in the north-east for Murrindindi Shire to be declared a drought zone.
“It was great to see so many farmers there engaged and support each other.
“The on-going dry conditions is very worrying with the cold weather setting in, and very little hay available to purchase in Victoria
“Farmers have no option but to look interstate to find hay at reasonable prices, then of course they must add transport costs.
“With the extra cost of feed and the increase in the Emergency Service Levy, our farmers are really under a lot stress at the moment, let’s hope we get some good rain very soon and the Government changes its mind regarding the Levy,” Cr Hildebrand said.
Nod to Food Share
■ Cr Anita Carr has spoken of the first year anniversary of Murrindindi Food Share.
“What an amazing contribution this program has made to the lives of so many across Murrindindi Shire,” Cr Carr told the latest Shire meeting.
“I was in aw of what the team at Foundation Murrindindi has achieved to date and look forward to seeing what they achieve in the next 12 months.
“They are there to help everyone so make sure to reach out to Robyn, Sasha and team.
“Community Food Share is held on the first Thursday of each month and all are welcome,” Cr Carr said.
McLindon off to Court
■ Signing himself as ‘Suspected Mayor, city of Whittlesea’, Aidan McLindon says he will be applying to the Supreme Court for a judicial review of Local Government Minister Nick Staikos’s suspension of Mr McLindon as Mayor and Councillor.
“I have sought legal advice from a number of senior lawyers,” Mr McLindon said in a media statement issued late last week.
“That asdvice is that the Minister for Consumer Affairs and Minister for Local Government, Nick Staikos, acted unlawfully in taking the action which led to my suspension from my position as the elected Mayor of the City of Whittlesea.
“As a result of this advice, I will be apllying to the Supreme Court to judicially review the actions of the Minister,” Mr McLindon said.
Mr Staikos last month launched a Commission of Inquiry into Whittlesea City Council.
Mr Staikos determined that an inquiry with broad powers was necessary “to address potentially serious and systemic governance issues within the council and identify necessary improvements to ensure it can function effectively”.
Prue Digby has been appointed as Chair of the Commission of Inquiry, while Jim Gifford has been appointed as Commissioner.
The inquiry is undreway for a period of four months to better understand the Council’s current governance practices, and determine if reform is needed to address ongoing issues.
Mr Staikos removed municipal monitors Jude Munro and Peita Duncan, who were appointed to the council in November last year.
The Commission of Inquiry followed the suspension of Mr McLindon, as a councillor for a period of six months, on April 16.
Mr Staikos said that he suspended Mr McLindon from duties at Whittlesea City Council under section 229A (1) of the Local Government Act 2020.
“I am satisfied this is necessary to protect the health and safety of the councillors and staff at Whittlesea City Council,” Mr Staikos said.
“For the duration of a suspension, Councillor McLindon ceases to be a councillor and must not perform any of the functions and duties or exercise the power of a councillor.
“This includes attending Council meetings, delegated committees or attending Council premises.”
Cr Martin Taylor was elected unopposed on April 24 as Whittlesea Council Mayor. The Mayoral term continues until November 18.
GRANTS UP
8%
FOR COUNCIL
■ Murrindindi Council has received notoification that its received notification that its Federal Assistance Grants for 2025-26 from the Victorian Grants Commission will be $6.48M an increase of around 8 per cent compared to last year.
This is about 3 pe rcent above the average increase for the state.
Murrindindi Shire CEO Livia Bonazzsi said this translates to an additional $317,000 for the year ahead, which will help the Shire continue delivering essential services.
“While it’s not a large uplift and is not sufficient to cover our real cost escalations, it’s very welcome and reflects the ongoing efforts we’ve made to advocate for fairer funding for our rural communities,” Ms Bonazzi said.
Aidan McLindon
Maintenance issues
■ Cr Eric Lording spoke about maintenance matters at the latest Murrindindi Council meeting.
“In towns with a lot of deciduous trees, you will see street sweeping underway to manage the heavy leaf fall,” Cr Lording said.
“The warm autumn has delayed leaf fall this year.
“Following sweeping, there will be a program to clean stormwater pits and drains starting in June.
“Flood recovery works continue with works about to start on the Snobs Creek major landslip. Work packages will be starting soon on bridges and culverts in Ghin Ghin, Glenburn, Strath Creek, Buxton, Yea and several other locations,” Cr Lording said.
Naturally Cooler
■ The Naturally Cooler Murrindindi project is well underway with the aim of significantly increasing the number of street trees planted in townships, Cr Sue Carpenter has told the latest meeting of Murrindindi Shire Council.
“A draft tree strategy is coming out – targeted for the end of June,” Cr Carpenter said
The Local Paper is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach The Local Paper or make a complaint to the Australian Press Council in writing at: www.presscouncil.org.au The Council may also be contacted on 1800 025 712.
● ● Cr Paul Hildebrand
Murrindindi
Councillor
● ● Cr Anita Carr
● ● ● Livia Bonazzi, Murrindindi CEO
The Local Paper
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Published in localised editions in 40 areas across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and some country areas.
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Ash on Wednesday
Frustrating speed limit
■ Northern Victoria MLC Rikkie-Lee
Tyrrell has asked Roads Minister Melissa Horne when the 60-kilometre-per-hour roadworks speed limit will be lifted from the Goulburn Valley Hwy between Pretty John Rd and Burkes Rd at Wahring.
“For at least eight months my constituents have been frustrated by the 60-k speed limit zone on the Goulburn Valley Hwy, between Pretty John Rd and Burkes Rd at Wahring
“This speed restriction was originally put in place for roadworks that have long since been completed, yet the speed restrictions remain in place.
“This is immensely frustrating for my constituents, many of whom travel this highway daily.
“My constituents ask the minister: when will the 60-k speed limit be lifted from the Goulburn Valley Highway between Pretty John Road and Burkes Road?” Mrs Tyrrell said.
Butterfly follow-up
■ Powercor Australia has entered into a legally binding Enforceable Undertaking with the Conservation Regulator following an investigation into damage of threatened native grasslands and flora at 36 sites across Victoria. The investigation examined vegetation management and maintenance activities carried out by Powercor in 2023 and 2024, which impacted areas of high conservation value.
These include part of the Western (Basalt) Plains Grasslands Community which, since European settlement, has been reduced to less than 2 per cent of its original extent in southwest Victoria and a known breeding site of the endangered Eltham Copper Butterfly
The Enforceable Undertaking commits Powercor to a range of actions aimed at improving its environmental performance and repairing existing damage, including:
■ Strengthening internal environmental processes, assurance programs, and staff knowledge of relevant legislation
■ Preventing unnecessary harm to protected flora and fauna during future maintenance works
■ Remediating damage at 32 agreed sites and reporting on progress until the undertaking concludes in May 2028
The Enforceable Undertaking does not prevent Powercor from meeting its legal obligations under the Electricity Safety Act 1998 for the maintenance of powerlines and required vegetation clearances. The company has cooperated with the Conservation Regulator throughout the investigation.
An Enforceable Undertaking is one of several compliance tools available under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988, allowing for environmental remediation and mandatory measures to support practice improvements. Ash Long
Local Photo Flashback
● ● The next print issue of The Local Paper is scheduled for Wednesday, June 25. Deadline for advertising bookings and content is 4pm Thursday, June 19. Phone: 1800 231 311 to book.
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.
Long Shots
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
Foenander, Music
Farmers urged
■ Mitchell Shire Council is urging local farmers to take advantage of the State Government’s expanded On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants, now available to eligible primary producers across Victoria Administered by Rural Finance, the program offers grants of up to $5000 (excluding GST) on a dollar-for-dollar co-contribution basis.
“These funds support practical on-farm infrastructure improvements aimed at enhancing drought preparedness and resilience,” said a Council representative.
These include:
■ Upgrading stock containment areas
■ Installing reticulated water systems
■ Improving irrigation
■ Increasing fodder and grain storage
■ Re-fencing paddocks for better land management
■ Enhancing feed systems
To access the grant, applicants must contribute an amount equal to or greater than the funding received.
“Mitchell Shire encourages eligible farmers to express their interest for the Drought Infrastructure Grants directly with Rural Finance via email.
“Applications are open now and will remain so until funds are fully allocated. Council urges eligible producers to act quickly, as grants are assessed on a first-come, firstserved basis.
“Once in-principle approval is granted, projects must be completed within three months, after which evidence of payment can be submitted for reimbursement.
“Further information, including application forms and guidelines, is available on the Rural Finance website.
“Recognising the challenges posed by ongoing drought conditions, the Victorian Government is also providing mental health and wellbeing support for farmers and their families. The 'Look Over the Farm Gate' program offers statewide mental health and wellbeing grants to help communities come together and support those under stress.”
Alexandra Football Netball Club personality Ray Steyger was roasted by friends, with the celebrations including the presentation by President Kylie cairns of a framed caricature of Ray. He has served an extraordinary 28 years of service as Club President. Current and past members came together to reflect on Ray’s contribution over nearly three decades. The evening featured several guest speakers, including former St Kilda player Steven Baker, who was warmly welcomed as a special guest. Others who paid tribute to Ray’s leadership and passion included Graeme Matthews, Peter McKenzie, and members of the Steyger family — Julie, Jake, and Lauren Steyger.
Mansfield upgrade
■ Ongoing upgrades on Highton Lane have reached a major milestone with the section between James St and Monkey Gully Rd now complete.
Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said it was satisfying to see the complex project nearing completion.
“We’re really grateful for our community’s patience as we complete the important upgrades on Highton Lane,”Cr Rabie said.
“We’ve listened and we’ve acted. These upgrades are addressing our community’s longstanding concerns with legacy infrastructure.”
The recent works have included widening single-lane sections to two lanes, constructing new and improved footpaths, installing kerb and channel and significantly upgrading stormwater infrastructure.
Community consultation played a vital role in shaping the final design, a Council representative said.
"We held extensive consultations with residents, and their input was invaluable," Cr Rabie said.
"That feedback helped us make several important changes, such as better locations for traffic islands, improving the footpath routes and pedestrian accessibility and modifying some driveway crossover locations.
“With good project management we’ve made savings during construction. Those have been reinvested into further upgrades, getting better bang for our buck,” said Cr Rabie
ACouncil statement said that savings allowed Mansfield Shire to reseal Highton Lane with higher-quality asphalt instead of a spray-seal. They also allowed asphalting and kerb and channel construction to be extended to the section between James St a nd Mt Buller Rd. Works on this section are continuing.
The Council is ontinuing to consult with residents to finalise works affecting driveways and crossovers.
The Highton Lane upgrade project is a key component of the IMPACT Route.
Council Rounds
Works at Seymour
■ Intersections in Seymour will be temporarily closed this month to allow for important resurfacing and safety upgrades.
Access to properties will be maintained and emergency services will be able to pass through the work sites in an emergency.
Detours will be clearly signed, and traffic controllers will be onsite to assist with access.
Works are weather dependent and are subject to change.
Oak St and Wimble St roundabout
The intersection of Oak St and Wimble St will be closed from Wednesday June 11 to Friday June 13 between 7am and 5pm for resurfacing works and the installation of speed cushions.
Detours will be in place via Tarcombe Rd and Delatite d.
High St and Wallis St roundabout works
The intersection of High St and Wallis St will be closed overnight on Thursday June 19 and Sunday June 22 between 7pm and 5am for resurfacing works.
Detours will be in place via the Goulburn Valley Hwy and Redbank Rd. High Street resurfacing works
High St, between Crawford St and the Wallis St roundabout, will be resurfaced during the day between Thursday June 19 and Friday June 20. Traffic management will be in place and delays are expected.
Drivers are encouraged to use detours via the Goulburn Valley Hwy and Redbank Rd.
‘Warm Up and Win’
■ Nillumbik Council is running a ‘Warm Up and Win’ where three $300 gift cards can be won to spend at a locally owned business of choice.
The Council is partnering with Eltham Town, Diamond Creek Traders Association and Hurstbridge Village for the first time in its Shop in our Shire campaign.
Award for managing waste
■ The Seymour Resource Recovery Centre has been recognised as one of Victoria’s leading community infrastructure projects.
The Centre won the Community Assets and Infrastructure (Projects $5 million – $20 nillion and Population over 50,000) category at the 2025 LGPro Awards for Excellence
“Opened in May 2023, the $8 million centre represents a significant step forward in Mitchell Shire Council’s commitment to environmental sustainability and resource recovery,” said a Council representative.
“The centre has established itself as a benchmark facility for local government resource recovery centre operations with its stand-out design which has generated significant interest within the community and waste and resource recovery sector.
“With a strong focus on the circular economy and design features that encourage resource recovery, the centre provides an outstanding example of how waste education can be integrated into operational facilities.”
Mitchell Shire Mayor Cr John Dougall said receiving this award was a proud moment for Council and the community.
“The Seymour Resource Recovery Centre is not just a modern waste facility – it’s a leading example of how waste can be managed as a resource to create a more sustainable and circular future.
"It has changed the way we approach resource recovery and education, helping us work toward our goal of diverting 80 per cent of waste from landfill by 2030," Cr Dougall said.
“Designed to make recycling simple and accessible, the centre features a two-level, drivethrough layout with dedicated drop-off zones for a wide range of recyclable materials and an education space for community workshops and school programs.
“A Reuse Shop selling second hand items that would normally end up in landfill will also be activated on the site in the coming months
“With reuse and recovery a priority for the centre, sustainable building practices were also used in the construction of the facility.
“It features an energy-positive 50kW solar system, rainwater harvesting for all of the site’s water needs, and the use of recycled and repurposed materials throughout the site.”
The project received $600,000 in funding from the State Government’s Resource Recovery Infrastructure Fund and E-waste Infrastructure Grant, administered by Sustainability Victoria.
Cr Dougall said setting an ambitious goal to deliver a better practice waste and recycling facility has resulted in the delivery of a state-ofthe-art resource recovery centre for Council and our community, and a showcase facility for the state.
“Our community has told us they want to reduce their environmental impact and the amount of waste being sent to landfill.
“The facility’s design provides a positive experience for waste management, making it easier for people to recycle and to contribute to a more sustainable future,” Cr Dougall said.
“The Seymour Resource Recovery Centre is the first facility to be constructed within the future Hilldene Employment Precinct, paving the way for longer term investment and job creation in the region.”
The LGPro Awards for Excellence celebrate outstanding achievement and innovation in local government across Victoria. The awards were presented at a ceremony in Melbourne on Thursday (June 5).
Local Politics
Road news buried
■ The State Government buried bad news on the dire state of Victoria’s roads late on the night before the King’s Birthday long weekend, Northern Victoria MLC Wendy Lovell said.
Melissa Horne, Minister for Roads and Road Safety, waqs scheduled to face a hearing of the Public Accounts and Estimates Committee beginning at 5.55pm last Friday (June 6), right before the start of the King’s Birthday long weekend.
“PAEC’s role is to scrutinise government ministers on their portfolio outcomes and budget measures – hiding the Minister for Roads from scrutiny, under the cover of a Friday night just before the long weekend, reveals Labor’s blatant intention to bury the bad news on the Allan Labor Government’s disastrous neglect of the Victorian road network,” Ms Lovell said.
“Residents of regional Victoria have lost all patience with the Allan Labor Government, which has neglected regional roads for a decade, leaving them crumbling, dangerously pitted with potholes and cracks, while major upgrades, intersections and bypasses are left unfunded.
“Details in the 2025-26 State Budget reveal major “road patching” targets for next year have been cut by 93 per cent in regional Victoria and 89 per cent in outer metropolitan Melbourne.
“The area of road resurfaced or rehabilitated will also fall, with the target down 14 per cent in regional areas to just 2.7 million square metres – an alarming drop given the target was as high as 11.4 million square metres in 2021-22.
“The Allan Labor Government only has bad news on roads for regional Victorians, and is attempting to avoid scrutiny by burying Labor’s rubbish in a PAEC hearing late on Friday, right before the King’s Birthday long weekend. Unfortunately for Labor, this tactic won’t work because people driving into the regions for the long weekend will be dodging potholes and cursing the Labor Government all the way to their destination.”
Resource Recovery Centre
Local People
50-year jewel for Graeme Hawke
■ Eltham North resident Graeme Hawke was presented with a 50-year service jewel last Thursday (June 5) in recognition of his long-term membership of Freemasons Victoria.
The presentation was made at the Ivanhoe Lodge meeting held at the newly refurbished Ivalda Masonic Temple at Darebin. A speech was given by Geoff Brown, Director of development at Ivanhoe Grammar School.
Presentation to Mr Hawke of a certificate denoting his promotion to ‘Past Junior Grand Deacon’ was made by Anthony Bucca, the Freemasons Victoria Past Grand Master.
Also presented with a 50-year jewel was Lt.-Col. David Waugh, former Deputy Headmaster of Ivanhoe Grammar School.
Presentation of the jewel and certificate was made by Ash Long.
Name adopted
■ bunjil nganga Parkland has been officially approved by Geographic Names Victoria as the name for the area known as the Quarry Hills Parkland
PM visits NE Link tunnels
■ Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited the North East Link tunnelling site at Lower Plenty Rd, Yallambie, in the company of Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan late last week.
The North East Link project continues to forge ahead with two massive Tunnel Boring Machines relaunching from Lower Plenty Rd to continue their journey towards Bulleen.
The TBMs ‘Gillian’ and ‘Zelda’ earlier this year both broke through the earth into a 30metre deep box at Lower Plenty Rd, which will soon create a vital interchange point for the North East Link project.
The TBMs relaunched to excavate the remaining stretch of the 6.5 kilometre tunnels to Bulleen to build Victoria’s longest road tunnels.
The TBMs are 15.6 metres in diameter and 90 metres long, and have each travelled 1.6 kilometres – or about 40 per cent of their total journey – collectively installing more than 16,000 concrete segments.
Construction will continue at the Lower Plenty Rd site to build the entry and exit ramps to the tunnels.
Space equivalent to five MCGs will be developed into the new Borlase Reserve parklands along Banyule Creek, returning green space to the community.
Major upgrades along the Eastern Freeway and the M80 Ring Road are ongoing, with foundation structures being built to connect the freeways to the tunnels.
Crews also continue works to realign Bulleen Road onto its permanent alignment, with these works expected to be completed later this year.
More than 8,000 people are currently working across the North East Link project, with 10 per cent of work hours being delivered by apprentices, trainees and cadets.
The project is set to create more than 12,000 jobs in total. The North East Link is jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments
■ “This is one of the biggest infrastructure projects in Victoria’s history – creating thousands of jobs and transforming the way people move across Melbourne,” said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
“Infrastructure projects like this help people to move more quickly and more safely around their communities, reducing commute times and reducing traffic on local roads.”
Jacinta Allan, Premier of Victoria, said: “This project has been talked about for 60 years – we’re getting on and building this missing link to get families home sooner and trucks off local roads.”
Catheriner King, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, said: “This project will change the way people move through the North East of Melbourne, supporting the efficient flow of freight and ensuring that journeys are faster and safer for commuters.”
Gabrielle Williams, Victorian Minister for Transport Infrastructure, said:“The North East Link will slash travel times by up to 35 minutes and take 15,000 trucks off local roads every day.”
● ● Premier Jacinta Allan with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Photo: 7News
● ● Gabrielle Williams MLA
● ● Graeme Hawke
The Arts
Artbox at L’wood
■ Strathbogie Shire’s Artbox program is back with a new exhibition celebrating the spirit of two local women artists, Deborah Cavanagh and Hilary Ford.
On display until June 30 at 60 Hill St , Longwood , the exhibition launches three months of arts experiences in the heart of the Strathbogie Shire.
Mayor Cr Claire Ewart-Kennedy said the exhibition reflects the unique perspectives and talents of the region’s creative community.
“This Artbox exhibition is a beautiful reminder that art doesn’t need to be far away or formal,” said cr Ewart-Kennedy.
“It can live in the everyday—our gardens, our animals, our memories, and our seasons. Deborah and Hilary capture all of that with extraordinary warmth and skill,” she said.
“These exhibitions are about more than showcasing talent—they help connect our community to local stories and landscapes.
“They also celebrate the joy of lifelong creativity. It’s a privilege to host such accomplished women artists right here in Longwood.”
Hilary Ford, originally from Scotland and now a long-time Euroa local, shares delicate watercolours inspired by her home, garden, and memories of her time abroad.
“Her work captures light and emotion in a way that invites viewers to pause and reflect,” said a Council representative.
Deborah Cavanagh, who moved to Euroa after 30 years in tropical Queensland, brings bold depictions of the Victorian highlands, filled with colour, humour, and a deep connection to place.
“Known for painting ‘random local stuff,’, Deborah’s work resonates with both warmth and familiarity,” the Council representative said.
Artbox is a mobile art space supported by Strathbogie Shire Council to showcase regional talent and bring visual art to unexpected places. The current exhibition is part of a three-month activation of Hill St designed to engage locals and visitors alike.
Shire’s new trailer unveiled
■ Murrindindi Shire Council says that it is taking a more visible approach to community connection with the launch of a new mobile community trailer.
The trailer has been designed to facilitate Council’s presence at local events, share information and support specific key services, said a Council statement.
“The trailer will serve as an Information Hub at markets and events, assist in emergency response efforts and enable targeted Council support directly to communities across the Shire, when and where it is most needed, complementing Council’s existing service delivery,” said a Council representative.
“The trailer was developed in response to community feedback following recent extreme weather events, and the success of pop-up health services at the Yea Saleyards
“Since the October 2022 floods, the Shire has experienced seven declared extreme weather events, many of which left residents without power, water or shelter.
“This new asset enhances Council’s ability to respond more quickly and support local recovery and resilience.
“Designed with adaptability, accessibility and sustainability in mind, the trailer is fully selfsufficient.
“It features solar panels, battery storage, a generator, device charging stations, fridge, awning, display panels and a smart TV, making it ideal for use in diverse environments.
?”The trailer will be used across Council functions and can also support pop-up activities such as health promotion information sharing and community consultations.”
The project was jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements
“We’re really proud to launch this mobile resource.” commented the Council’s Integrity, Finance and Resilience Portfolio Councillor Paul Hildebrand
“This trailer is a practical investment that improves how we connect with communities, whether in times of crisis or through day-to-day engagement.
“We can now provide information and support more directly and flexibly, helping strengthen resilience and relationships across the Shire,” Cr Hildebrand said.
Drought relief
■ Nicholls MHR Sam Birrell says dry conditions across northern Victoria require the AlbaneseGovernment to act urgently ahead of any formal declaration of drought.
“Farmers are struggling, their stock and crops are struggling, they need assistance now,” Mr Birrell said.
“In 2020 the Coalition introduced a twoyear interest free period for Regional Investment Corporation loans up to $2 million for farmers experiencing hardship.
“This can and should be done again now to give primary producers some financial breathing space.
“The combined impacts of drought and floods means that fodder is scarce and expensive, farmers are having to destock and cropping seasons will be bleak without decent rain which isn’t forecast.”
Mr Birrell welcomed the Government’s announcement of a $2 million boost for the Rural Financial Counselling Service but said more can be done.
“The stress and strain on farming families grows the drier it gets, and we know from bitter experience the mental health toll it takes,” Mr Birrell said.
“A zero per cent interest rate for new and existing drought loans and to refinance existing debt from commercial banks is a practical measure to improve cashflow and give farmers time to restock and replant.”
“Nationals Leader David Littleproud has written to Agriculture Minister Julie Collins requesting finance support and on behalf of the farmers in my electorate, I hope the Minister acts sooner rather than later,” Mr Birrell said.
Cancer checks
■ Free skin cancer checks will be provided in a project run jointly by the Marysville District Lions Club and the lions V District Cancer Foundatikon. Volunteers will provide free skin cancer checks at the Marysville petrol station car park on June 21 and 22.
● ● ● ●
Murrindindi Council’s new mobile community trailer.
Council Rounds
Alexandra East Development Plan
■ Murrindindi Shire Council is inviting the Alexandra community to review and provide feedback on the draft Alexandra East Development Plan, now available on Council’s website.
“The draft plan outlines how Alexandra East could grow over time to include approximately 680 new housing lots, helping to attract young families while ensuring that future development is well-planned, sustainable, and in tune with community needs,” said a Council representative.
“This draft plan has been developed by Council in close collaboration with our community”, said Murrindindi Shire Council Mayor and Councillor for Red Gate Ward, Cr Damien Gallagher
“It reflects what we’ve heard through the Community Reference Group and the broader community during workshops and discussions: a desire for a mix of lot sizes, safer roads and footpaths, better drainage to manage flooding, and protection of significant trees that give Alexandra its unique character.”
“The draft Plan , developed with the assistance of Mesh Planning, was informed by local knowledge, community aspirations, and technical input from planning specialists is now ready for your input.
“We know development plans can seem technical, but they matter: they influence how streets, houses, parks, and public spaces will come together in the years ahead,” Cr Gallagher said.
“Even if it’s not something you’d normally look at, we encourage you to visit the website, explore the plan and tell us whether it reflects your vision for Alexandra’s future.”
Residents can view the draft plan, supporting materials and Frequently Asked Questions, and provide feedback at theloop.murrindindi.vic.gov.au/draftAEDP until June 30.
War against M80 graffiti
■ The State Government is trialling new technology to curb graffiti on roadsides.
New panels set to be retrofitted to noise barriers and retaining walls across Melbourne’s north to reduce time spent on graffiti clean-up and removal.
Planning is still underway for the installation of these anti-graffiti panels, but they are set to be in areas that have experienced high levels of graffiti, including on oise walls along the M80 in Bundoora
Some 50 panels will be trialled in select locations identified based on their susceptibility to vandalism, ensuring that we target areas of high traffic.
These panels blend seamlessly into existing structures and use recycled plastic waste to form what is known as a TagShield panel.
This innovative technology will repurpose diverted plastic waste from landfill, giving containers, bottles and other recyclables a second lease of life.
Each square metre panel features a complex network of shapes and channels that renders graffiti unreadable, made up of engineered polymer that increases paint run.
The trial is scheduled to run for around 12 months, with experts evaluating the overall effectiveness of deterring vandalism.
Melissa Horne, Minister for Roads and Road Safety, said: “This innovative technology will help reduce unsightly graffiti in our neighborhoods by deterring vandals after these panels are retrofitted to roadsides.
“We hope this trial will reduce cleanup and removal of tags and graffiti by reducing the attractiveness of traditional surfaces.”
Bundoora MLA Colin Brooks said: “We hope this trial will reduce graffiti in our community as the panels blend seamlessly into the surrounds, as well as diverting plastics from landfill.”
Aust. Day host
■ Mitchell Shire Council is inviting community groups and organisations to step forward and host the 2026 Australia Day celebrations, including the Community Awards and the Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony.
Mayor Cr John Dougall said hosting these events is a fantastic way to contribute to the community and be part of a day filled with recognition and celebration. "This is a chance to reflect, acknowledge, and celebrate the many contributions that make our community such a great place to live. We encourage local groups to consider hosting and being part of this wonderful occasion in 2026."
BMX location
■
The BMX park that was originally planned for construction at 145 Allendale Rd, Diamond Creek, is now planned to be built at a different site.
“The decision was made after comprehensive assessments revealed the presence of culturally significant artefacts and the site being in a flood-prone area,” said a Nillumbik Council representative.
“While the process has been complex, it reflects Council’s commitment to getting it right for our young people, our environment and our community.
“Challenger Street Reserve, Diamond Creek has been selected as the new location.
“This site meets the requirements for a BMX park, ensuring minimal environmental and cultural impact, is located adjacent to the Diamond Creek Trail and will provide easy access for riders.
“Council remains committed to delivering a safe, exciting and inclusive facility for all riders and will contribute $650,000 to fund the new BMX dirt jumps.”
The State Government has committed to fund $2.16 million through the Growing Suburbs Fund for a community and recreation park, which will include infrastructure surrounding the BMX dirt jumps.
The community will have a chance to provide more feedback on the recreation park in the coming months.
Possible features include play equipment for young children and teenagers, public toilets, and shelters with BBQs and picnic tables. A large bike shelter near the jumps could also be included, with bike hoops and a repair station.
Nillumbik Mayor Cr John Dumaresq said
“This is a fantastic initiative for our Shire, as we've heard from so many BMX riders and community members who are eager for this project to become a reality. It’s clear that there’s strong local support. This is an exciting project for the Shire because many BMX riders have told us it's something the community really wants.”
● ● ● ● Colin Brooks, Bundoora MLA
Where
■
Court Lists
Seymour Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings
Thursday, June 12
Local News
Back-up battery
■
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■ ALEXANDRA. Alexandra Newsagency. 82-84 Grant St.
■ ALEXANDRA. Corner Hotel.
■
65 Grant St.
■ ■ ■ ■ ■ THORNTON. Thornton General Store. 1365 TaggertyThornton Rd.
■ ■ WATTLE GLEN. Peppers
■ ■ WARRANDYTE. Warrandyte Newsagency/Post Office. 100 Melbourne Hill Rd.
■
■
■ ALEXANDRA. Endeavour
■
Alexandra (BP). 10 Downey St.
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■ 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.
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■ ALEXANDRA. Shamrock Hotel. 80 Grant St.
■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Simpson’s Fuel (Caltex). 25 Aitken St.
■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Totally Trout. 42 Downey St.
■ ■ BUXTON. Blue Igloo Roadhouse. 2200 Maroondah Hwy.
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■ 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.
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■ FLOWERDALE. Flowerdale Community House. 36 Silver Creek Rd.
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■ FLOWERDALE. Flowerdale Hotel. 3325 Whittlesea-Yea Rd.
■
■ ■ ■ FLOWERDALE. Hazeldene
General Store. 6 Curlings Rd.
■ ■ GLENBURN. Glenburn Roadhouse. 3883 Melba Hwy.
■ ■ HURSTBRIDGE. Hurstbridge Newsagency. 900 Main Hustbridge Rd.
■ ■ KANGAROO GROUND. Kangaroo Ground General Store.
280 Eltham-Yarra Glen Rd.
■ ■ KINGLAKE. Cafe. WhittleseaKinglake Rd.
■ ■ KINGLAKE. Foodworks. 12 Whittlesea-Kinglake Rd.
■ ■ ■ ■ KINGLAKE. Kinglake Pub. 28 Whittlesea-Kinglake Rd.
■ ■ KINGLAKE. United Service Station. 2 Glenburn-Kinglake Rd.
■
■ ■ ■ ■ LAURIMAR. Laurimar Newsagency. 95 Hazel Glen Dr.
■ ■ MANSFIELD. Foodworks. 119 High St.
■
■
■ ■ ■ 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.
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■ ■ ■ 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.
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■ ■ 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.
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■ YEA. Grand Central Hotel. 64
High St.
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■ ■ ■ 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.
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■ ■ ■ 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.
Beer, Glenn Robert Bell, James Binks-Brown, Nick Borg, Joseph Botter, Angelo Briffa, Jake Briffa, Tristan Bugden, Scott Day, Laura Dickinson, Daniel Robert Dow, Caroline Jane Ford, Troy Mark Garlick, Frances Goodwin, Andrew Hall, Jake Douglas Illingworth, Frances Inches, Peter Ronald Ismail, Deniz Jackson, Jye Allan Joyce, Jason David Liang, Mingwei Lippert, Chantelle Macrae, Louise Mason, Melissa Mcbean, Paul Mccrae, Ryan Miller, Jaye-Ellen Moore-Wiggett, James Allan Nally, Rebecca O'toole, Nicholas Peacock, Adam Perosevic, Sussan Romero, Julian Alonso Scicluna, Brandon Shanahan, Daniel Smith, Bruce Graham Swan, Jarratt Tran, Kevin Boi Wallace, Tyson Whalan, Jack Thomas Wight, Jack Williams, Charles
Friday, June 13
■ Nillumbik Council has received a grant to install a solar and back-up battery system at Hurstbridge Football and Cricket Pavilion
Funded by the State Government under the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Grant Program, the $303,728 grant will cover 95 per cent of the purchase and installation costs of 38kW of solar and a 240kWh back-up battery at the facility.
Nillum,bik Council will contribute $12,000 to the project, and Hurstbridge Cricket Club and Hurstbridge Football Netball Club will each contribute $2 000.
Nillumbik Mayor Cr John Dumaresq said the grant is a big win for the community.
“Energy resilience is a key focus for Council, particularly in our rural townships. This large-scale system will enable the clubs to provide power to residents in case of an extended power outage or major weather event,” Cr Dumaresq said.
Deputy Mayor and Bunjil Ward Councillor Naomi Joiner said the project would further bolster Hurstbridge’s energy capabilities.
“It's great to see the State Government recognise the importance of this pavilion and the clubs that utilise it as a central point for the community. Many families are connected to it, and investing in these facilities is crucial.
“We are grateful to have an additional centre to use during power outages in the town, especially with the recent grant from AusNet for extra solar power and a battery system at the Hurstbridge Hub
“With these grants we are making significant progress in enhancing community energy security while also reducing our environmental footprint,” Cr Joiner said.
Hurstbridge Football Netball Club President Taylor Hopkins said the club welcomes the installation of the system.
“We’re a club that prides itself on being on the cutting edge,” Taylor said.
“We’re looking forward to seeing how it all unfurls going forward.”
■
■
■ ■ YEA. Yea Bakery. 44 High St.
■ KILMORE. Kilmore Bakery. 54 Sydney St.
■ ■ ■ YEA. Yea Newsagency. 74
■
High St.
■ ■ YEA. Yea Take-Away. 68 High St.
Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express Edition
■ ■ COLDSTREAM. Coldstream Post Office/Newsagency. The Lodge Shopping Centre. 670-672 Maroondah Hwy.
■ 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.
■
Dennison, Jayde Elson, Georgia Karajanov, James Neilsen, Luke Andrew Pankhurst, Shannon Tweedie, Joel
Monday, June 16
Gregory, Charlotte Wednesday, June 18
Brown, David Ronald Elmaaraoui, Ahmed Mason, Melissa North, Shakyrah
The project aligns with Nillumbik Council’s Climate Action Plan 2022-2032 to develop resilience to climate change events and supports the target of net-zero community emissions by 2035; as well as Council’s commitment to sustainability and resilience, as outlined in the Council Plan 2021-2025 Installation is due to be completed by mid2026.
Market outcome
■ 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.
Tadic, Daniel Walsh, Justin Mansfield Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, June 11
Abdou, George Myer Aliu, Erjan
Bennett, Adrienne
Bradley, Paul Gregory Fairy, David Fleetwood, Jack Gogoll, Jake Hasslinger, Alban Jones, Wyatt
■ The Melbourne Market at Epping says that all 17 store tenants who reached the end of their nine-year lease term have now signed new lease agreements.
“This marks the conclusion of a long-standing rent review process and brings stability to the market community,” said a representative of the M elbourne Market Authority
“This resolution follows months of engagement between the MMA, tenants and their representative body, Fresh State, which included a formal valuation process to ensure transparency, fairness, and alignment with current market conditions.”
■
■
■ ■ LILYDALE. Lilydale Newsagency. 237 Main St.
■
■ ■ ■ MILLGROVE. Licensed Grocery. 3043 Warburton Hwy.
■ ■ MOUNT EVELYN. Mount Evelyn Newsagency. 1A Wray Cres.
■ WALLAN. Wallan News and Lotto. Shop 6, 55 High St.
■
■ ■ WALLAN EAST. New Rattlers Inn. Station St.
■ WANDONG. Caltex Star Mart. 3272 Epping-Kilmore Rd.
■
■
■ ■ ■ RINGWOOD. Burnt Bridge Newsagency. 434 Maroondah Hwy.
■ ■ SEVILLE. Wooworths Seville. 568 Warburton Hwy.
■
■ ■ ■ WANDIN. Wandin Newsagency. 18/2 Union Rd.
■ WANDONG. Dundee’s Fish and Cips. 3272 Epping-Kilmore Rd.
■
■ ■ WANDONG. IGA Supermarket. 3272 Epping-Kilmore Rd.
■ WANDONG. Wandong Post News and Tatts. 3272 EppingKilmore Rd.
Kirby, Luke Stephen Mclachlan, Peta Nicholls, Richard David Sanford, Daisy Santori, Robert Stephens, Charles Van Winden, Christopher Vangeli, David Ian Walker, Sonny Wilson, Gary John Winter, Jordan Xu, Lisha Young, Christopher Young, Steven
Thursday, June 12
Haines, Aaron Frederick Wednesday, June 18
Peter Tuohey, Chair of the MMA, said the Authority is pleased to have reached this point, with all tenants choosing to sign the new leases and remain at the Melbourne Market
“We’re pleased to have reached a resolution that provides our tenants with clarity about their future at the Market
“We know it’s been a challenging period, but this outcome provides stability and certainty and allows the market to focus on what it does best, getting the freshest fruit and vegetables out to Victorians.”
■
■
■ ■ 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.
Creighton, Brenda Hutchinson, Glen Andrew Sonnberg, Amy Sparks, Joshua
Friday, June 20 Josephson, Tim
The revised rent reflects current market valuations assessed by the Valuer-General and is tailored to individual store size and location, with premises valued at approximately $35,600 to $121,600 (excluding GST) per annum.
The signed leases contain a base rent adjustment of +23-38 per cent distributed evenly across the nine-year lease term to support affordability and long-term tenancy stability.
Council Briefs
Open forum
■ Two residents spoke at the latest meeting of Murrindindi Shire Council.
■ Justin Bumpstead spoke about the petition rleating to Kinglake Memorial Reserve Oval.
■ Catherine Cumming spoke about the Kinglake Memorial Reserve Oval and the dangers associated with Whittlesea-Kinglake Rd.
Road underway
■ Main road upgrade works for the Darraweit Rd project in Wallan are now underway.
The $2.7 million project, which began with footpath works in April, will focus on the section of road between Acacia Way and Roulston Way
This upgrade includes the installation of underground drainage, kerbing, and the reconstruction of the road pavement, all aimed at improving road safety and durability.
Traffic management measures will be in place to ensure the safety of road users and construction crews.
Residents can expect some minor delays during construction, but access to properties will be maintained throughout the project.
Works will take place during standard construction hours, from 7am to 6pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 1pm on Saturdays.
The project is part of the Federal Government's $11 million commitment to the Macedon and Mitchell Shire Roads project, with $5.5 million allocated to Darraweit Rd and Wellington St upgrades.
The works are expected to be completed by October, weather permitting.
Website changes
■ Yarra Ranges Council is making some changes to its website.
“Over the next month we’ll be changing our homepage and simplifying the menu to make it easier to find what you need,” said a Shire representative.
10-year vision
■ Murrindindi Council’s engagement process about its 10-year vision plan generated more than 1000 individual conversations through pop-up events, phone interviews, listening sessions and community workshops, Councillors have been told.
This will ensure that the strategic documents are grounded in a deep understanding of community aspirations.
Listening Tour
■ The Mitchell Listening Tour is coming to Wallan and Broadford.
“These community sessions are a chance for residents to hear directly from Councillors and Council staff about current priorities and future plans for Mitchell Shire,” said a Council representative.
“Each session will begin with a short presentation, followed by an informal expo-style session where you can ask questions and share your ideas.
Upcoming sessions
■ Wallan – Wednesday June 18, 6pm to 7.30pm. Wallan Neighbourhood House, 42 Bentinck St.
■ Broadford – Wednesday July 2, 6pm to 7.30pm. Broadford Shire Hall, 18 Murchison St.
The Listening Tour is part of acommitment to staying connected with the community as Councillors plan for the future of Mitchell Shire.
“A range of plans and projects are currently being developed, and your feedback will help shape priorities and decisions in the months ahead,” said a Mitchell Council representative.
“Council recently adopted its 2025–2026 Budget, with a strong focus on community infrastructure, roads and essential services.
“These sessions are also a great chance to learn more about what’s planned and how your rates are at work across the Shire,” the representative said.
“No RSVP needed – just drop in.”
Plans for Centre’s future
■ Murrindindi Council is working closely with Alexandra Secondary College to plan for the future redevelopment of the Alexandra Community Leisure Centre, the Shire CEO Livia Bonazzi has told Councillors.
“The current facility is a critical asset for sport, recreation, curriculum delivery, and emergency management across the district, but is aging and no longer meets the diverse needs of our growing community,” Ms Bonazzi said.
“This planning project will explore what redevelopment might be needed, where it could best be located and provide high-level cost estimates to make this a shovel ready project for future grant opportunities.”
Ms Bonazzi also spoke about operations and maintenance matters: “While the ongoing dry conditions continue to create havoc and impact our agricultural sector, they have enabled Council to extend the unsealed road grading program beyond its usual timeframe, allowing us to grade more road sections across the network.
“Our new chipper truck is now operational, completing the establishment of a dedicated ree maintenance crew. This in-house capability is already improving response times to storm-related tree damage and enabling a more proactive and programmed approach to vegetation management,” Ms Bonazzi said.
Livia Bonazzi, Murrindindi CEO
Discussions about roads
■ Cr Sue Carpenter has told her Murrindindi Shire Councillor colleagues about the Council RoadAdvisory Group meeting in Yea to view the new draft Road Management Plan.
“The CRAG, consisting of ratepayers from different parts of the shire that have met regularly to discuss the Council roads,” Cr Carpenter told the latest meeting of the Council.
“ This is a great form of community consultation.
“The community members have been invaluable in providing suggestions and improvements to how the Council manages the road network.
“This has aided the development of the new Road Management Plan
“I thank the CRAG members for their considered insights,” Cr Carpenter said.
Erratic driving charges
■ Mitchell Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man after he allegedly fled from police in a stolen car on Thursday (June 5).
It is alleged the Volkswagen Tiguan was driving erratically along the Hume Fwy in Euroa just before 11am.
It will be alleged the vehicle was stolen from an address in Werribee on May 28.
The police Air Wing observed the vehicle travelling on the Northern Hwy in Bylands where it allegedly lost control and crashed into a barrier.
The driver was arrested and taken to hospital under police guard.
He was interviewed and charged with several offences, including:
reckless conduct endangering serious injury
dangerous
being pursued by
Regional Round-Up
Power study
■ Deakin University and Yarra Ranges Council are inviting parents to contribute to research on how they use power, to help develop programs to make their lives easier.
The Power to Save project is asking parents to sign up for a six week study, starting in July.
During the study, electricity meter readings will be recorded by participants three times over six weeks, with three questionnaires answered.
Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Jim Child, said the results would help academic research into how families use power.
“Families in the region have told us that energy consumption is a major concern, particularly in households with children,” Cr Child said.
“With the cost of living so high, we know people are doing everything they can to be more mindful of their spending, and energy use is something that can creep up without us knowing.
“This study, conducted by Deakin University in partnership with Council, will help academics understand how family homes use power.
“That research will help inform Local Government programs and approaches, and help us figure out how to better assist families to reduce energy use, save money, and reduce their environmental impact
“An expression of interest form is now available at https://shaping.yarraranges. vic.gov.au/power-save-helping-parents-reduce-household-energy-use
Study participants will go in the running to win one of four $250 gift cards.
Expressions of interest will be accepted until July 14.
Steve re-appointed
■ Steve Schinck has been re-appointed by Murrindindi Shire Council as an Audit and Risk Committee Independent Member for a second three-year term ending June 30, 2028.
“Mr Schinck has expressed an interest to continue for a second term. He has been a valued member of the Committee, and his reappointment would ensure the Committee continues to benefit from his skills and knowledge,” Councillors were told.
Young planners
■ Mansfield Shire planners Esther Perkins and Nicole Embling have been participating in panel sessions as part of the Municipal Association of Victoria’s Rural and Regional Planning Conference held in San Remo The MAV is the peak body for Victoria’s 79 councils.
Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said Mansfield Shire had experienced unprecedented growth.
“It is obvious to me that people will visit this place, fall in love and want to make it their home,” said Cr Rabie.
“The pressure from population growth is significant in our Shire. We can’t stop people from wanting to live here. Our job, at Council , is to make strategic decisions to make sure that we plan well for the population.
“For example, when more people move into an area, there is less open space to absorb water. During wetter periods, this means there is pressure on drainage systems.
“This is why there has been an investment over the past few years in Council’s drainage network. There are lots of examples for how we need to gradually enhance our infrastructure and services to meet the needs of a growing community.
“This type of town planning needs strong, smart and strategically minded talent to ensure our community is held carefully through periods of growth.
“After all, there is a reason everyone wants to live here and it’s an incredibly challenging job to maintain the beauty and amenity of our Shire as more people come.
“I’m so pleased that we have been leaders in attracting the talent that we have here at Mansfield Shire. I have great confidence in our planning team and the way they guide us through growth,” said Cr Rabie in a statement.
Sue Carpenter, Murrindindi Shire
MET AT YEA
Melbournewide
Robbery charges
■ Northern Grampians Crime Investigation Unit detectives have arrested three men following a robbery in Stawell on Saturday morning, May 31.
It is alleged that the victim, a Singaporean national, was at Cato Park taking photos of the night sky about 12.20am.
The 23-year-old was approached by three unknown males who made demands for his camera.
A struggled followed and the victim was assaulted before the offenders fled towards Main St, with the camera. He sustained minor injuries in the incident.
Police executed search warrants at addresses in Stawell and Ararat, arresting the three men.
The camera was recovered damaged, but the SD card was returned intact to the owner.
A 20-year-old Stawell man has been charged with robbery and affray and bailed to appear at Ararat Magistrates’ Court on July 25.
A 20-year-old Stawell man and a 25-yearold Ararat man were released pending summons.
MYRTLEFORD
Fatal collision
■ Police continue to investigate a collision in Myrtleford on May 20 that has since turned fatal.
It is believed a car was reversing from a driveway and struck a pedestrian on O’Donnell Avenue just after 9am.
The pedestrian, a 59-year-old Myrtleford woman, was airlifted to hospital with lifethreatening injuries where she later died on June 3.
The driver, a 62-year-old Myrtleford man, remained at the scene.
He was interviewed by police and released pending further investigation.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision remains ongoing.
LONGWARRY
Foot chase
■ Police arrested two men in two stolen Subarus after a foot chase in Longwarry on Wednesday, June 4.
Officers observed the first Subaru parked on Sand Rd about 8.40am and checks revealed the vehicle was allegedly stolen.
Upon sighting police, a man got out of the Subaru and began running towards a service station nearby with officers pursuing him on foot outside the store.
The man got into the passenger side of another allegedly stolen Subaru which attempted to drive off from police.
The offenders struggled to get the vehicle into gear and as the vehicle slowly rolled, police removed one man from the driver’s seat and arrested him.
In the meantime, the man in the passenger seat got out of the Subaru and attempted to flee, before he was safely arrested by police.
Stolen property, drugs and cloned plates were allegedly located during a search of both vehicles.
The 30-year-old and 34-year-old men from Pakenham were in custodyand were to be interviewed.
MELBOURNE
Employee charged
■ An Australian Federal Police employee was scheduled to appear in the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court last Friday (June 6).
The AFP employee was charged by Victoria Police with one count of driving whilst suspended, and one count of driving an unregistered vehicle.
MELBOURNE
CBD robberies
■ Melbourne Divisional Response Unit detectives charged a teenager and are searching for two others following a number of alleged robberies, armed robberies and assaults in Melbourne’s CBD
CROSS BORDER CRACKDOWN
WAS A FAMILY AFFAIR
■ A major cross-border police operation led to 16 arrests - and at the heart of the action was a unique family connection, with four relatives from Victoria and NSW Police working side-by-side.
Operation Hawker ran from Friday May 30 to Sunday June 1, targeting cross-border criminal activity and reducing road trauma in the Mildura region.
Local police were supported by Victoria Police’s Air Wing, Dog Squad and specialist units from both states.
Among those leading the charge was Acting Inspector Matt Pascoe from Victoria Police, who worked alongside his brother, son and daughtereach playing a vital role in the high-visibility enforcement effort spanning both sides of the border.
Over the three-day operation:
■ 16 people were processed by way of arrest, summons or penalty infringement notices
■ 14 infringement notices were issued in Victoria and NSW
■ Five drivers were found under the influence of drugs or alcohol
■ Four vehicles were impounded
■ Six drug-related offences were detected
Victoria Police’s Air Wing played a critical role in tracking fleeing offenders from the sky, often guiding police units on the ground to locate alleged offenders.
Key incidents included:
■ On Friday May 30, an unregistered ute attempted to flee police and allegedly rammed a police vehicle. Two men were arrested. A 25-year-old Mildura man, who was allegedly the driver, has been charged with disqualified driving, and exposing emergency service workers to risk. A 41year-old passenger from Mildura was charged with drug and firearms offences. Both were remanded to appear at Mildura Magistrates’ Court on July 1.
■ On the same night, police pursued a vehicle allegedly travelling at speeds up to 180kmh in Mildura. The vehicle eventually came to a stop in Merbein . A 25-year-old Mildura man fled the vehicle but was located with the assistance of the Dog Squad and NSW Police . He has been charged with commit indictable offence whilst on bail, possess drug of dependence, fail to stop on police direction, and dangerous driving while pursued by Police and remanded to appear at Mildura Magistrates’ Court on July 1.
■ On Saturday May 31, police tracked an unregistered Ford Falcon that was allegedly driving dangerously in the Merbein and Cardross areas. The driver allegedly drove through a fence while evading police. His vehicle was brought to a stop by police in Cardross after they used stop-sticks. The driver allegedly tried to flee on foot however was
Across Victoria
STATEWIDE
Weekend blitz
■ Victoria Police urged motorists to take extra care on the roads over the King’s Birthday long weekend as the number of lives lost surged to a 16-year high.
Operation Regal saw police ramp up enforcement across the state in an effort to drive down road trauma.
It follows a terrible period on the roads which saw 37 lives lost during May – the worst May for fatalities on record in over 20 years, since 2004.
There have now been 136 lives lost on Victorian roads in 2025, up 14 per cent on the same time last year.
The last time 136 or more lives lost had been recorded at this point of the year was in 2008, with 137.
Police have been particularly concerned about the increase in fatalities involving vulnerable road users, with eight motorcycle fatalities during May and a further six pedestrian deaths.
Excessive or inappropriate speed, rider inexperience and unauthorised riding have been identified as key contributing factors in motorcycle trauma.
Driver inattention and failing to give way are both major factors in collisions involving vehicles and vulnerable road users.
With winter officially getting underway last week, Police urged drivers to take extra care and pay attention behind the wheel, particularly with reduced daylight hours and inclement weather impacting visibility and conditions.
Speeding and distracted motorists was a a key focus for police over the King’s Birthday long weekend, which has been identified as a high-risk period on Victoria’s roads.
Statewide
swiftly arrested by members from both Victoria Police and NSW Police . A 39-year-old Merbein man was arrested and charged with for alleged offences including dangerous driving, stolen number plates, drug possession, and breaching a court order. He was remanded to appear at Mildura Magistrates Court on July 1. His passenger, a 53-year-old Mildura woman was also arrested and released pending further enquiries.
Acting Inspector Matt Pascoe, who has served with Victoria Police for more than 32 years, led the opeartion.
He was joined by his brother, Sergeant Brad Pascoe, a member of the Victoria Police Air Wing with more than 28 years of service.
Also taking part was Matt’s son, Constable Jayden Valinoti, who joined NSW Police six years ago and now works in the Dareton Highway Patrol Unit
Also working beside Matt was his daughter, First Constable Paige Valinoti of Mildura Uniform, who has been with Victoria Police for more than three years.
Acting Inspector Matt Pascoe said: “This was a powerful example of what can be achieved when police from both sides of the border come together with a shared focusdisrupting crime and keeping the community safe.
“Working alongside my family during this operation was a moment of real pride.
“It’s not often you get the chance to stand shoulder to shoulder with your brother, your son, and your daughter — all in different roles, but united by the same commitment to protecting the community.
“It was a reminder of why we all joined the job in the first place.
“Policing in regional communities like Mildura is incredibly rewarding. You get to make a real difference, be part of a tight-knit team, and have a direct impact on people’s safety and wellbeing.
“If you’re looking for a career with purpose — there’s no better place to start.”
SUNBURY
Missing
■ Hume Crime Investigation Unit detectives appealed for public assistance as part of the search for missing Sunbury man Joshua Bishop.
The 23-year-old was last seen in Lalor Crescent about 9:30pm on Tuesday, May 27 by his housemate. He was subsequently reported missing by his mother on May 29.
Police and family are concerned for Joshua’s welfare and his disappearance is believed to be completely out of character.
Police targetted major arterials and highways leading to the state’s holiday hotspots, including the alpine areas with the state’s snow season kicking off
Those heading to the snow were urged to monitor conditions prior to travelling and ensure they werecarrying and using appropriate wheel chains as legally required.
Police remindedc motorists to avoid driving while impaired, with widespread drug and alcohol testing to be conducted anywhere, anytime.
During last year’s Operation Regal enforcement period, police issued more than 7000 infringements.
Operation Regal ended at 11.59pm on Monday (June 9).
Road Policing Command Acting Assistant Commissioner, David Byrt, said: “Driving during winter presents additional challenges, such as navigating slippery roads and poor visibility, and there is less room for error.
“Whether you’re travelling across the state this weekend or heading to the alpine regions, please take extra care on the roads and be sure to drive to the conditions.
“We’re approaching the halfway point of the year and the amount of trauma we’ve experienced is extremely concerning.
“These road trauma numbers of course represent actual people. People who have been killed, or whose lives are changed forever, simply from travelling on our roads.
“We’re appealing to everyone to make road safety their number one priority, every time they get behind the wheel or are out using our roads, to eliminate this unnecessary and avoidable trauma.”
“We’ll be highly visible and enforcing across the state’s roads this long weekend, cracking down on any dangerous driving behaviour that puts other road users at risk.”
SOMERTON
Serious collision
■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a serious collision that occurred in Somerton on Monday, June 2.
Emergency services were called to reports of the head-on collision at Cooper St about 11.30am.
It is understood a black Lexus was travelling west when it crossed onto the wrong side of the road and collided with an eastbound red Hyundai and then a Mitsubishi truck.
● ● Police Air Wing. File Image.
Observer Melbourne
Visit to Airport Museum Visit to Airport Museum
not just aircraft and engines, but
Michelle Allen and team of Muddy Creek Health Hub, Yea
I have been working as a massage therapist in Yea, at my home for the last 15 years.
I have supported people's relaxation, remedial or correctional and palliative care treatments for this community and it's been an honor..
I have always been fascinated by the body and finding ways of helping people in pain and learning to see if we can push past our symptoms to heal on a deep or lasting level. It's always been a dream of mine to be part of a health hub that includes different types of therapists and modalities coming together.
Technology is happening in our health care industry and with so many amazing minds and by still using old fashioned foundations there is some seriously successful solutions for people's pain and healthcare needs.
My clinic is lucky enough to have Rebecca Bullen join the team as a Remedial Therapist who brings the same values with a different touch to her care for clients.
I have also introduced a Telsa
Former which uses Functional Magnetic Stimulation machine that can change our body on a very deep physiological level.
It supports problems around inflammation, pain, muscular atrophy and injury, stimulates the lymphatic system and supports drainage.
Weight loss or cellulite reduction or body sculpting. Pelvic floor issues and incontinence problems have had huge success and erectile dysfunction also has some.
We have an awesome team to begin with of Rebecca Bullen, Nicole Schryver, Grace Hamilton and myself who look forward to being part of Yea and districts healthcare solutions.
My telephone number is 0419 625 536 if you would like to talk more or even come in and have a look around at our facilities. The clinic's number is 0417 658 366 or email us at info@muddycreekhealthhub. com.au
Our address is 7 The Semi Circle, Yea. The old medical Centre and the old dentist.
● ● ● ● Michelle Allen, Nicole Schryver, Bek Bullen and Grace Hamilton
● ● David Taylor (pictured) was at Moorabbin Airport when Combined Whittlesea Probus Club members visited. the Airport Museum has expanded to have a collection of
models, uniforms and many other artefacts associated with Australia's aviation history.
Your Stars
with Kerry Kulkens
Presented by Sarah Kulkens, Australia’s
Trusted Psychic Family
ARIES (March 21 - April 20)
Lucky Colour: White
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 3, 3, 2, 1
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 26, 30, 33
This week promises financial progress with a touch of luck in money matters. People you already know may provide helpful support. Look forward to exciting surprises in your romantic life.
TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)
Lucky Colour: Peach
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 3, 2, 6, 5
Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 25, 40, 44, 45
Travel plans may not go as expected, but your efforts will still lead to success. Someone you were unsure about may prove their worth.
GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)
Lucky Colour: Green
Lucky Day: Wednesday
Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 5, 6
Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 25, 36, 39, 3
This is a favourable period for romance and new friendships. Avoid irritating individuals to maintain peace. Keep an eye out for promising business opportunities.
CANCER (June 22 - July 22)
Lucky Colour: Blue
Lucky Day: Monday
Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 2, 1
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 45, 8, 33
Sudden travel arrangements might strain your love life, but finances and business matters should improve. Look for great bargains.
LEO (July 23 - August 22)
Lucky Colour: Mauve
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 2, 3
Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 3, 36, 39, 5
Tact and diplomacy will take you far this week. Avoid conflicts by steering clear of matters that don’t concern you. Financial ease is on the horizon.
VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)
Lucky Colour: White
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 2, 1, 3, 5
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 45, 40, 22
If approached correctly, people in positions to assist you may offer their help. To prevent family conflicts, avoid being overly critical of loved ones.
LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)
Lucky Colour: Peach
Lucky Day: Thursday
Racing Numbers: 2, 6, 9, 8
Lotto Numbers: 8, 12, 5, 16, 20, 33
New friendships may result in big changes. Keep an eye on your belongings—this isn’t the best time to lend or borrow.
SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)
Lucky Colour: Green
Lucky Day: Thursday
Racing Numbers: 2, 1, 3, 6
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 45, 40, 33
Happier times are ahead, with more personal attention coming your way. Romance looks promising, but take it slow with new relationships, as adjustments may be needed.
SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)
Lucky Colour: Pink
Lucky Day: Monday
Racing Numbers: 1, 5, 9, 6
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 4, 20, 29
Your ideas may not resonate with others, so consider whether to share them. Meeting new people could provide unexpected benefits.
CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)
Lucky Colour: Yellow
Lucky Day: Saturday
Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 9, 5
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 45, 40, 33
Seek expert advice if starting a new business venture. If you’ve been holding back, now’s the time to speak and express your ideas.
AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)
Lucky Colour: Orange
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 6, 9
Lotto Numbers: 1, 15, 26, 29, 8, 7
Worrying about unlikely outcomes won’t help. A positive attitude will produce better results, especially in love and new personal interests.
PISCES (February 20 - March 20)
Lucky Colour: Green
Lucky Day: Wednesday
Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 6, 5
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 45, 40, 22
Expect a pleasant surprise in your love life. Innovative ideas could become highly profitable, with a touch of luck from someone born in September.
Kerry Kulkens™ Magic Shop 1693 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave
Visit us online at: www.kerrykulkens.com.au
Follow us on Facebook for the latest updates and offerings.
Nominate mental health leaders
Sir,
Your chance to mominate a mental health leader in rour community
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Australian Mental Health Prize - a decade of recognising important Australians changing lives through their work in mental health.
From researchers and clinicians to lived experience leaders and local community advocates, past recipients have helped shape policy, challenge stigma, and deliver better mental health support across Australia
Yet significant challenges still remain.
Mental ill-health continues to affect one in five Australians each year, with young people, Indigenous communities, and LGBTIQA+ individuals among the most impacted.
Proven, community-led approaches and prevention still struggles for funding and recognition.
The Australian Mental Health Prize honours those creating real change — often quietly, and with great impact.
Nominations are now open across four categories: Lived Experience, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, Professional, and Community Hero.
I encourage you to nominate someone in the your community making a difference.
Visit www.australian mentalhealthprize.org.au.
Nominations close July 23.
Adjunct Professor Sophie Scott Chair, Australian Mental Health Prize Advisory Group
Thanks to responders
Sir,
From police, paramedics, and firefighters to marine rescue volunteers and emergency call operators, these individuals show up every day in the most challenging of circumstances to keep our communities safe.
Yet, one in three first responders experience high levels of psychological distress, a rate far higher than the general population.
In fact, concerningly, PTSD affects between 10 per cent and 23.2 per cent of first responders, and nearly one in seven (15 per cemnt) are impacted by anxiety and depression.
These alarming figures highlight the urgent need for greater support and appreciation of the sacrifices first responders make.
Thank a First Responder Day, now in is sixth year, amplifies the voices of gratitude for the frontline workers and volunteers who give so much. We know that feeling appreciated and valued is important for our wellbeing. The simple act of saying thanks for the challenging, traumatic and often dangerous work our first responders do will ensure these dedicated men and women know that they are recognised, appreciated, and
Observer Mailbag
Short letters (no more than 200 words) on local subjects are invited from readers.
Email to: editor@Melbourne Observer.com.au
Letters must be short and may be edited. All letters to be considered for publication must have a name, street address and phone number so their authenticity can be checked. An email address is not sufficient.
valued by the communities they protect.
Our first responders are such a valuable part of our communities, and they and their families sacrifice so much to ensure they are always there for us, so it’s fantastic to see so many people thanking them for their service.
We know that being a first responder is incredibly rewarding, but it can also be confronting, traumatic and dangerous. That can impact the mental health and wellbeing of both first responders and their families.
Saying thank you is such a small gesture, but it can have a great impact on the wellbeing of those who are the recipients of that gratitude. So, to all the first responders out there, thank you!”
Michael Willing CEO, Fortem Australia
Good soil health
Sir,
There are new insights showing almost four in ten Australians (39 per cent) admit to not knowing enough about the importance of good soil health for biodiversity, crop resilience and protecting our food supply.
A staggering 91 per cent of Aussies recognised the need for our school age children to learn more about soil health and its impact on food supply and biodiversity. However, while over 90 per
cent of people questioned said they were broadly aware of the link between soil health and food supply, when questioned further, 32 per cent said they knew very little about why it is important.
Kellogg’s ANZ’s new research also uncovers how much people in Australia know about the role of soil critters (for example, insects, tardigrades) and surprisingly under 5 per cent of Aussies recognise these critters as one of the most important contributors to soil health.
To help raise awareness around the importance of the unseen soil heroes, Kellogg's ANZ , in partnership with the Cool Soil Initiative, has commissioned 2022 Archibald Packing Room Prize Winning artist Claus Stangl to create four striking artworks using Aussie soil. The artworks bring the hidden world of soil critters to life, making soil science more accessible and engaging.
Commenting on the findings and the new artworks, Alicia Doherty, Senior Manager, Corporate Affairs at Kellogg’s ANZ, says: “At Kellogg’s, and through our partnership with the Cool Soil Initiative, we’re continuing our support for Aussie farmers in helping to improve soilhealth by increasing soil’s organic carbon levels and reducing greenhouse emissions.”
“As part of this, we’re on a mission to raise awareness of the importance of good soil health and its crucial impact on the quality of crops and food supply from paddock to plate, and based on these new findings, Aussies want to know more.
“We’re really excited about partnering with talented artist Claus Stangl and believe the portraits he’s created bring to life the hidden creatures in our soil in a really fun, educational and unique way.”
When asked about their opinion of farmers, there’s a strong sense of admiration and respect, with over two thirds of Aussies (67 per cent) saying that they are resilient, despite issues with bushfires, drought and climate change.
Investment from partners like Kellogg’s supports farmers to innovate and create healthy soil – which helps them to produce better crops.
There is more than meets the eye when it comes to our soil – it is something to be protected, and that’s what we want to bring awareness to through this campaign.
The new art collection will consist of four unique portraits of critters and wheat made from elements found in real soil.
The new artworks will soon be donated to Soil Science Australia, the national soil science body and not-for-profit association for soil scientists and people interested in the responsible management of Australia’s soil resources.
Dr Cassandra Schefe, Principal Scientist Cool Soil Initiative
Locked up
■ Raymond Fitzpatrick and Frank Browne spent last night in police cells ot Canberra, after the House of Représentatives had drama tically sentenced them to three months gaol. They will stay in gaol until Wednesdayand maybe until September - if legal moves for their freedom fail.
In a dramartc sequel to a terse day in Parliament, lawyers last night began a desperate legal battle to free them.
After cell doors clanged behind the two key f igures in the sensational case, their lawyers made the first moves towards a High Court appeal.
Mr. J. Shand, Q.C., for Browne, and Mr. A. F. Mason, for Fitzpatrick, successfully sought, in the A.C.T. Supreme Court ch ambers an order nisi for a writ of habeas corpus as soon as Parliament, rose.
The order, returnable on Wednesday, calls on Inspector E. Richards, acting A.C.T. Police Commissioner, to show cause why he should not "deliver up the bodies" of Fitzpatrick and Browne
The move for a habeas corpus writ is unique in Capital Territory history, and led to feverish consultations among legal authorities.
New Hillman
■ Mr. L. Rogers, of Mitford st., Elwood, who yesterday won a Hillman car in Argus Skillball No. 22, considers it a personal victory. He defeated his wife!
"This is just too good to be true," said Mr. Rogers when an Argus reporter called to break the news.
"My wife and I have been putting in different entries for months — but I won it after all," he grinned.
But Mrs. Winifred Rogers, his wife, had different ideas. "I might let him drive it to work sometimes—he has such a long way to go," she quipped. Mr. Rogers, 60, is an engineer at the International Harvester Works, Sunshine.
Court affirmation
■ Court regulars, accustomed to witnesses repeating oaths on the Bible, looked up as a Chinese woman made a rare Buddhist affirmation in Genera} Sessions yesterday.
Tiny Mrs. Jade Ngyuk, in a blue-grey smock and wide three-quarter length black slacks, solemnly rectied.
● The Argus. June 11, 1955.
Lord of the Dance
■ The world’s most successful dance show, Lord of the Dance, will return to Australia for the first time since 2015, performing in Melbourne on Saturday, August 30 at 7pm and Sunday, August 31 at 2pm at the Margaret Court Arena
This new show will blend tradition with cutting-edge innovation. State-of-the-art technology, dazzling special effects, and updated costumes will bring a glamorous, contemporary energy to this reimagined production.
The 2025 Australian tour will showcase 40 of the world’s most outstanding young dancers, under the direction of Michael Flatley, with music composed by Gerard Fahy Michael Flatley said: "Australia has always held a special place in the heart of Lord of the Dance. It’s incredible to see how this show continues to evolve while staying true to its roots, and I know Australian audiences will be blown away by this spectacular new production."
Michael Flatley first stunned audiences with Riverdance at Eurovision 1994, before revolutionising Irish dance with Lord of the Dance in 1996.
Since then, the production has sold out more than 1000 theatres, arenas, and stadiums worldwide, with over 60 million people experiencing its magic in 60 countries across every continent.
Melbourne Performance Details: August 30 at 7pm and August 31 at 2pm Venue: Margaret Court Arena. Bookings: Ticketek www.lordofthedance.com
Cheryl Threadgold
The Yellow Line
■ The Yellow Line by Essence Théâtre Productions in conjunction with Nga Matai Purua is a bold play inspired by events at the soon to be closed Port Phillip Prison
Co-authors Berne-Lee (Nana) Edwards and Alaine Beek, collaborated and researched for the content of the play with both the Maori and Pasifika communities.
While Maori people are indigenous to New Zealand, Pasifika people are native from the many Pacific Islands having moved to New Zealand.
The play revolves around a prison guard –a Pasifika person, played by Tyson Tuala, being tasked with teaching a group of inmates the traditional Maori Haka “ It’s not just another Maori or Pasifika story. It’s a story of what culture can do when systems fail us,” Tuala said.
A bare stage with a back wall with a large steel frame of bars that swung open to depict either a cell block or an open exercise yard.
The inmates from mixed cultures did not make the teaching straightforward for Tuala While inmate Wiremu Morris as Kai showed little interest and indeed did not support the early days of learning, there was no doubt of his ability shown later in embracing the Haka
More receptive was Thisara Hewamanne as Dembe, non Maori who added another perspective with his presence and often with a dash of humour.
A very animated and gregarious performance by DJ Ahipene as TJ stood out as the group prepared to perform the Haka in the exercise yard without stepping over the yellow line that separated them from the prison officials.
Phil Cameron-Smith as Richard the Head Warden was commanding from his desk of authority, while Ross Daniels as Mikey, the Prison Warden showed more respect towards the inmates and often engendered some relief in difficult situations.
Their ultimate Haka performance employed facial contortions, poking out the tongue (men only) and a wide variety of body movement and actions with hands, arms and legs. Happily the audience joined in.
The play embodied “the power of collaboration and the importance of sharing cultural narratives”.
Review by Graeme McCoubrie
Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless
LOVE AND INFORMATION
■ Acclaimed British playwright Caryl Churchill has a season of her play Love and Information currently being performed at Theatre Works in St Kilda
It is a challenging work due to its unique structure, and while at times arresting and entertaining, it equally confuses and overreaches in its ambition.
The action of the play is difficult to describe due to its non-naturalistic impressionistic quality; there is no classic narrative here.
Instead, through the presentation of more than 50 scenes, some shorter than a minute, life in the21st century is portrayed.
Taken as a whole the scenes show the fragility of human communication in an age fractured and fragmented by social media technologies.
First performed in 2012, Love and Information has an intriguing script. It consists of seven sections with each section consisting of short scenes involving over 100 characters.
To complicate matters, while the seven sections have to be performed in a specific order the scenes that make up each section can be performed in any order.
No characters are named and more than one actor can play the same character.
In this production eight actors perform the over one hundred characters required. All do so with admirable energy and dedication.
Nevertheless, there is a great deal of unevenness in the quality of the performances; some actors are able to meet the demands of this challenging script, while others flounder at times.
Given the flexibility in staging afforded by the script, the role of director is critical. Here Belle Hansen’s work mirrors that of the actors in its uneven quality.
Successfully using music and multimedia projections to enhance the action these enhancements come at the cost of better performances.
Overall then Love and Information is not an easy play to sit through as it confounds audience expectations and deconstructs the classic wellmade play.
However, its ambition is commendable and this production, for all its faults, is worth seeing.
Venue: Theatre Works, 14 Acland St, St Kilda
Dates and times: Until June 14 at 7.30pm
Duration: 95 minutes
Tickets: $25-55
For further information and bookings: www.theatreworks.org.au
Review by Peter Murphy
NICA - Proteus
■ The National Institute of Circus Arts presents the third-year student ensemble show, titled Proteus, co-directed by international artists Sage Bachtler Cushman (2010 NICA alumna) and Hugo Oliveira,from June 18-28 at the NICA National Circus Centre in Prahran.
Directed by Sage Bachtler Cushman and Hugo Oliveira , with a postmodern deconstructionist point of departure, a peculiar world sets in.
Voyaging through the city's architectural spaces, micro and macro spaces unfold into an expanse of connective pathways, seclusive rooms and celebratory lairs.
Audiences will be offered microcosmic glimpses into a civilisation inhabited by a collection of modern oddballs. Within these intimate settings, Proteus builds momentum while meandering through life circumstances.
The fragmentation of shapes and reconfiguration of form transpires through set, costume and design, rendered through circus, movement and theatre.
In this dimension, mutable and ever-changing forces drive perpetual transformation. NICA’s third-year ensemble will showcase their skills across double Chinese pole, hula hoops, aerial rope, teeterboard, roue cyr, and more.
A distinguished 2010 alumna, NICA proudly welcomes Sage back on home soil to co-create with the next generation of global circus artists, paving the way for a bold reimagining of the
Photo: Steven Mitchell Wright industry. With a shared repertoire of accolades, awards, and professional recognitions, Sage and Hugo are said to bring a directive approach grounded in the observation of human nature, revived through physical language.
Their nuanced integration of circus, theatre, and movement is said to create a distinctive artistic dialect that 'evokes a visceral, intuitive response’.
Event Details
Season: June 18 – 28 (preview June 17)
Time: 7:30pm evenings and 2 pm matinee
Venue: NICA’s Guang Rong Lu OAM National Circus Centre, 39-59 Green St, Prahran,
Duration: Approx. 80 minutes
Tickets: $15 - $40 plus booking fee. Discounts for groups, concession, Mob tix and under 30s.
Seating: General Admission Bookings: nica.com.au/performs
Parental guidance recommended. The show may contain references to adult themes, loud music, smoke haze, and mild sexual references.
Cheryl Threadgold
Dog Man The Musical
■ Dog Man: the Musical is the performance adventure based on Dav Pilkey’s worldwide bestselling book series, and returns to Melbourne for 10 performances from September 30 - October 4 at the Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne.
The show follows the chronicles of a canine superhero, who loves to fight crime ... and chew on the furniture.
While trying his best to be a good boy, can he save the city from Flippy the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings? Can he catch Petey, the world's most evil cat, who has cloned himself to exact revenge on the doggy dogooder? And will George and Harold finish their show before lunchtime?
Described as an 'epic musical adventure', the show is a colourful live adaptation featuring an original book and lyrics by Kevin Del Aguila (Emmy-winning writer of the PBS show Peg Cat) and music by Brad Alexander (See Rock City and Other Destinations), with orchestrations by Lloyd Kikoler.
Event Details: September 30 - October 4 at 11am and 2pm
Venue: Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne
Duration: 65 minutes
Bookings: artscentremelbourne.com.au Age recommendation: 6+ Cheryl Threadgold
●
The crew transforms the Mess Hall into a Theatre. ■ LOTS Theatre hit the road on tour to the Ballarat Heritage Festival to present a reprise of the 12th series of Legends of the Skies, celebrating the 90th anniversary of the MacRobertson Trophy Air Race.
Two shows were presented in Ballarat Airport's historic mess hall to capacity audiences, and acknowledgement for the success of this project must go to Artistic Director Maggie Morrison.
With minimal funds, LOTS Theatre hired a rental truck and Maggie and her wonderful team of volunteers loaded up the stage, lights, props and costumes and headed to Ballarat to transform the Mess Hall into a theatre in just one day.
Audiences enjoyed hearing of this true story which used a little dramatic licence to tell of the dream of the 1934 Lord Mayor of Melbourne and the financial support he received from the Ballarat born philanthropist, MacPherson Robertson
Informative and entertaining scripts were written by Alison Knight with added scenes and songs by Jim Williams and Maggie Morrison
The multi-generational cast of fifteen performers and seven crew included young actors Banjo Morrison, twin brothers Christian and Sebastian Jones, and brothers George and Mack Klesman, with Sam Withington on lights.
Bravo to LOTS Theatre and Maggie Morrison for triumphing over challenges and bringing aviation history alive through performance in Ballarat
Incidentally, the winner of the MacRobertson Trophy Air Race was the DeHavilland DH88 Comet, 'Grosvenor House', flown by Charles W.A. Scott and Tom Campbell-Black.
Cheryl Threadgold
Scratch That
■ Wit Incorporated presents Scratch That, a curated selection of works-in-progress, on Sunday, June 29 from 2.30pm - 4.30pm at Mamma Chen's, 42AAlbert St, Footscray
Described as a 'relaxed and inspiring afternoon', Scratch That will unearth fresh new talent and bold new ideas and showcase emerging creatives in Theatre, Music, Comedy and Sketch.
Drinks can be purchased from the bar at Mamma Chen's, and everyone is invited after the show to stay for “casual chats, constructive feedback, and a chance to connect with fellow artists and supporters and help shape tomorrow's ideas”.
Entry is by donation, with all funds going to Wit Incorporated upcoming productions, children's drama classes and the artists' development program.
Event Details: Sunday, June 29 from 2.304.30pm
Venue: Mamma Chen's, 42A Albert St., Footscray Entry: by donation
Enquiries: hello@witinc.com.au
Cheryl Threadgold
● ● The next twice-a-year luncheon of the Survivors Club will be held on Saturday, June 21 at South Melbourne. The Club was founded by Bert Newton, Ron Tudor and John Proper. Bookings: ash@Long.com.au
● ● ● ● Charlie Morris and Felix Star in Love and Information.
● ● Nat Jobe and Josh Whitten in Dog Man the Musical Photo: Peter Wallis
Entertainment
Garcon
■ Award-winning visual artist, spoken word poet, and storyteller Wani Toaishara brings his one-person show Garçon to Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre, as part of Darebin Arts Speakeasy’s season of boundary-pushing performances from July 16-20.
Recognised for his cross-disciplinary work exploring Black life, dislocation, and Indigeneity,Garçon offers an intimate and poignant journey through the streets and communities that shaped Wani’s boyhood in Auckland, New Zealand
Garçon is a coming-of-age tale that immerses audiences in the vibrant yet challenging world of wani’s childhood.
From classroom antics and basketball games to the milk bars and garage hangouts of Ranui and Massey, the performance paints a vivid picture of young boys navigating the pressures of a world intent on turning them into men.
Through his storytelling, wani weaves moments of violence, precarity, and sexual assault with humour, friendship, and resilience.
Directed by acclaimed Congolese multidisciplinary artist Gideon Wilonja, the show brings a fresh perspective to the stage.
Known for his ability to blur the lines between masculine and feminine aesthetics, Wilonja’s work centres Black and queer voices, creating a nuanced and bold production that challenges mainstream narratives.
“My hope is for audiences to see a nuanced view of the human experience, particularly when it comes to black and brown boys,” says Wani
“By portraying characters as multifaceted, complicated individuals, challenging simplistic notions of good and evil, I hope to encourage empathy even for those we consider flawed characters.
“This interpersonal story can offer a deeply impactful and thought-provoking experience, encouraging introspection and discussion long after the performance ends.”
Wani Toaishara’s artistic career spans multiple mediums including photography, installation, and film, and his work has been recognised nationally and internationally.
Among his many accolades, he was the 2019 Australian Poetry Slam champion and has won multiple prestigious art prizes, including the 2021 Darebin Art Prize.
Garçon continues this trajectory, celebrating Black life while also interrogating the complex social dynamics of urban spaces through wani’s personal history.
Performance Dates: July 16 - 29
Location: Northcote Townhall Arts Centre, 189 High St, Northcote
Price: $38 Full. $30 Conc. $33 Darebin Resident. $33 Group 4+. $20 Preview. $10 Blak Tix
Bookings: arts.darebin.vic.gov.au/Programs-and-opportunities/Programs/Speakeasy-presentations/garcon-by-wanitoaishara
Cheryl Threadgold
Tarzan
■ Tarzan
– The Stage Musical, based on the Disney film, is coming exclusively to Melbourne this August, at The National Theatre, St Kilda
Tarzan – The Stage Musical brings Disney’s epic animated film to life on stage in a high-flying action adventure, complete with aerial choreography and unforgettable music to the soundtrack of Phil Collins — including the Academy Award-winning ‘You'll Be in My Heart’, ‘Son of Man’, ‘Two Worlds’, and all the hits from the iconic film.
Tarzan struggles to find where he truly belongs, torn between the animal kingdom and the human world.
LIGHTNING THIEF Thomas
■ A truly musical fantasy, first conceived by Rick Riordan, a story about the Greek God, Poseidon’s “half blood” son who has an attention deficit hyperactive disorder and dyslexia.
Monash University Student Theatre (MUST) embraced the work to a full house season of some 10 performances under Director Kyra Hatzikosmidis and her formidable crew.
The full title The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical, a book in 2005, then two films, a Disney+ spin off and a video game, giving way to the suggestion that it is in the realms of the Harry Potter phenomena.
The intimate MUST black box theatre was transformed with a three level rostra, two rising staircases, four tall imposing Greek columns all with a backdrop of ethereal lighting.
A credit to the Set Designer Nikita Sinclair and her Team. A five piece Rock Band under Musical Director Claire Gurrin kept the momentum going over a 23 song list.
The story revolves around the “half blood” son, Percy Jackson played by Jet Spicer who commanded a great presence whether with word or song and his masterly use of the sword.
Jackson sets out on a quest to find his absent father and Zeus’s lightning bolt so as to prevent a war between the Greek gods.
Being well supported as a trio by stand out performances from Jasmine Salter as Annabeth Chase and Sofia Jorgovic as Grover Underwood.
With a strong cast of 16, impressive was Danny Dominic Hartono in two particular roles of Luke and Ares and with the sword, while Andrew McGregor showed great character flexibility in the roles of Medusa and Poseidon.
Bridget Hyde as Hades, Tiara Pires as Percy’s mother Sally Jackson, Thomas Noulikas Galinas as Mr D/Gabe and Luca Edwards as Chiron all played striking performances.
A final comment is that not all head mikes appeared to operate during important dialogue. That aside, MUST's program for the year is well worth being part of - explore monashstudentassociation.com.au/theatre/
Review by Graeme
McCoubrie
3D Tapestry
■ The Australian Tapestry Workshop hosted a cutting-off ceremony to reveal Australia’s first 3D tapestry – a groundbreaking floating ellipse installation that is destined for the $1.5b new Footscray Hospital.
It was a major cultural event at the intersection of public art, First Nations design, healthcare and architectural innovation.
Welcome to Country – now you see me: seeing the invisible is a 42 square metre tapestry –a monumental artwork that redefines tapestry on a cultural and architectural scale.
Created in collaboration with First Nations artists Maree Clarke (Yorta Yorta/Wamba Wamba/Mutti Mutti/Boonwurrung) and Mitch Mahoney (Boonwurrung/Barkindji), the design draws inspiration from microscopic views of
river reeds from the Maribyrnong River. Handwoven over 10,000 hours by 12 weavers at ATW in South Melbourne, the tapestry weighs 135 kilograms and will be suspended as a floating ellipse over two levels in the hospital’s main foyer – a welcome at the new Footscray Hospital for patients, staff and visitors.
This is not only Victoria’s largest tapestry commissioned for a public hospital, but also a first-of-its-kind – a 3D tapestry installation that merges contemporary design, traditional weaving and Indigenous storytelling in a public health setting.
The commission is supported by The Premier’s Suite, a partnership between the Tapestry Foundation of Australia, the Victorian Government and the Australian Hotels Association, which funds major tapestry artworks for public hospitals.
The Australian Tapestry Workshop has produced more than 700 hand-woven tapestries since 1976, featured in institutions including Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, the Sydney Opera House and 10 international embassies.
Key facts:
■ 12 weavers and 2 dyeing specialists
■ 10,000 hours to complete over 14-months (April 2024 – June 2025)
■ 42 square metres (4.2m high x 10m wide)
■ Weighs over 135 kilograms
■ Over 270 kilometres of yarn used – the distance from Footscray to Yarrawonga
■ 103 yarn colours, including eight custom shades dyed onsite by ATW’s master dyer
■ Tapestry wools are sourced from Victorianbased farms.
Cheryl Threadgold
Dancers leap high
■ An international research study with La Trobe University and The Australian Ballet aims to help adolescent ballet dancers remain injuryfree and have long and successful careers.
While they appear to move gracefully and float through the air on stage, ballet dancing is physically challenging and injuries can stop some dancers from reaching their full potential.
For Lottie, 18, her dream to join a ballet company once she graduates from the Australian Ballet School is dependent on remaining healthy and without injury. Rehabilitation programs have been integral to her recovery from a sprain in her shoulder joint capsule sustained last year.
“Injury obviously affects our physical health and can come with pain and discomfort in the rehabilitation process. However, injury also has a really large impact on the mental and emotional wellbeing of a dancer. Dealing with the setback of an injury on our training is a challenging hurdle to overcome and takes mental strength and resilience to cope with,” says the Level 8 graduate student.
Lottie will be part of an international injury surveillance program being conducted at the Australian Ballet School in Melbourne, to help improve adolescent dancer health and performance.
●
Thomas Heywood
■ Classical organist Thomas Heywood celebrates the 200th anniversary of organ music in Australia with a concert of classical favourites performed on the Melbourne Town Hall Grand Organ on Sunday June 29 at 2pm. Admission is free, but bookings are essential.
Australia’s very first pipe organ had its first public performance on May 15, 1825 at St David’s Church in Hobart. The organ had been ordered in 1824 from a leading London organ builder and was shipped out to Tasmania the following year at great expense.
And so began the wide spread of Australia’s pipe organ heritage. Today, more than 2000 pipe organs can be found across the country in concert halls, town halls, public halls, theatres, universities, schools, cathedrals, churches and private residences.
Worth more than one billion dollars in purely monetary terms and priceless in terms of replacement value, these monumental and, in many cases, irreplaceable instruments are the single largest and most valuable ‘objects’ owned by the authorities on behalf of their local communities.
“It’s thrilling to celebrate 200 years of organ music in Australia,” says Heywood. “For two centuries the music performed on these magnificent instruments - by generations of Australian organists - has been enjoyed by millions of Australians.”
Performing at Melbourne Town Hall on the largest and most expensive musical instrument in the southern hemisphere, Thomas Heywood shares his passion and mastery of the monumental pipe organ.
“I’ve enjoyed a life-long love affair with the Melbourne Town Hall Grand Organ since I first performed on it when I was 16 years old,” says Heywood
“I am profoundly grateful for the wonderful times I had with the Melbourne Town Hall Grand Organ as a kid growing up in Melbourne in the 1980s. It really was the most amazing experience imaginable as a teenager - having such regular access to the power and grandeur of that magnificent instrument. It was very much the 1992 solo recording of the Melbourne Town Hall Organ - sponsored by the City of Melbourne for the City’s 150th birthday - that launched my international career.”.
The popular classical music program will include works from Strauss, Tchaikovsky, Bizet, Salomé, Chopin and Rossini and features Heywood's new transcriptions of epic works by Brahms, Chopin, Bizet and Smetana
An internationally renowned Australian organ virtuoso, Thomas Heywood enjoys an outstanding reputation. The American Organist wrote in 2019: ‘without argument one of the world’s best concert organists whose primary goal is to touch a wide public with music that stirs the soul as much as it stimulates the mind. His technique is impeccable and seemingly limitless. His command of musical style, particularly in large Romantic works, allows him to make them spring to life in the organ’s unique idiom.’
Event Details: Thomas Heywood - Concert Organ Spectacular
Date: Sunday June 29, 2pm - 4pm.
Venue: Melbourne Town Hall, 130 Swanston St, Melbourne
Tickets: Free admission, bookings essential.
Cheryl Threadgold
● The Lightning Thief Cast. Photo: Eric Stone.
● ● Wani Toaishara presents Garçon Image credit: J.M. Tubera
Local Theatre Observations
Shows
■ Windmill Theatre: Mama Mia! Until June 21 at Bunjil Place, 2, Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren. Bookings: windmilltheatre.com.au
■ The 1812 Theatre: The Housekeeper (by James Prideaux) Until June 14 at The 1812 Theatre, Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Keith Hutton. Bookings: 9758 3964 or 1812theatre.com.au
■ Babirra Music Theatre: My Fair Lady. Until June 15 at The Round, Nunawading. Director: Alan Burrows; Musical Director: Marty Macaulay; Choreographer: James Kaiser. Bookings: babirra.org.au
■ The Basin Theatre Group: The War of the Worlds (A radio play by Howard E. Koch, based on the novel by H.G. Wells) June 12 –22 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin/. Director: Pip Le Blond. Bookings: 0494 065 006
■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: The Importance of Being Earnest (by Oscar Wilde) June 13 – 28 at Warrandyte Mechanics’ Institute, 180 – 186 Yarra St, Warrandyte. Director: James Banger. Bookings: warrandytearts. org.au
■ Aspect Inc: Rent. June 13, 14, 19, 20, 21 at 7.30pm; June 14, 21 at 2pm; June 15 at 6.00pm at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Bookings: kingstonarts.com.au/Community-Events-atKingston-Arts/all-community-events/AspectTheatre
■ Mountain District Musical Society (MDMS): Mary Poppins. June 13 – 22 at the Karralyka Theatre, Ringwood. Bookings: mdms.org.au
■ Ballarat National Theatre: Next Fall (Geoffrey Nauffts) June 16 – 22 at Ballarat Mechanics Institute – Minerva Space, 117119 Sturt St., Ballarat. Director: Matthew Henderson. Bookings: bnt.org.au/ news?view=article&id=749&catid=65
■ Essendon Theatre Company: Things I Know to be True (by Andrew Bovell) June 19
– 28 at the Bradshaw Street Community Theatre, Bradshaw St., West Essendon. Director: Angelo Snell. Bookings: 0406448368 or Trybooking
■ Malvern Theatre Company: Macbeth (by William Shakespeare) June 20 – July 5 at 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East. Director: David McLean. Bookings: 1300 131 552.
■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Rabbit Hole (by David Lindsay-Abaire) June 25 – July 12 at 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: John Bishop. Bookings: wlt.org.au/book-tickets
■ Wangaratta Players: Rumours (by Neil Simon) June 27 – July 6 at Stage Door Theatre, 4D Evans St., Wangaratta. Director: Steve Thornycroft and Leanne Kelly. Bookings: Trybooking.
■ MLOC Productions: The Pirate Queen (Boublil and Schönberg) July 1 – 19 at the Frankston Arts Centre, Davey St., Frankston. Director: Chris Ryan; Musical Director: Matthew Pines.
■ Theatrical: Legally Blonde July 11 at the National Theatre, St Kilda. Bookings: booktickets.com.au
■ Fab Nobs Theatre: Zombie Prom - The Atomic Edition. July 11 – 20 at Fab Nobs Theatre, 33 Industry Place, Bayswater. Director: Maeghan McKenzie; Choreographer: Dean Robinson; Musical Director: Sally McKenzie. fabnobstheatre.com.au
■ CPP Community Theatre: Seussical Jr. July 11, 12, 15, 17, 18 at 7.30pm; July 12,19 2pm; July 13 5pm at Boronia K-12 College, Performing Arts Centre, Albert Ave., Boronia (park at Rangeview Rd. end). Director/Musical Director: Helen Taylor; Associate Director: Fiona Rosel. Bookings: cppcommunity theatre.com.au/
■ Encore Theatre: Agatha Crispie (by Cenarth Fox) July 18 – 27 at the Clayton Theatrette, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: David Dodd. Bookings: Trybooking.
■ Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria (GSOV): The Mikado July 17 – 20 at The Alexander Theatre, Monash University, Clayton. Bookings: gsov.org.au
■ PLOS Musical Productions: We Will Rock You. July 25 – August 2 at the Frankston Arts Centre, Davey St., Frankston. Director: Paul Watson. Bookings: plos.asn.au or 9784 1060.
Cheryl Threadgold
SUPER AT RED STITCH
■ Red Stitch Actors' Theatre opens Wednesday, June 18, with Super, a new work by playwright, essayist and poet, Emilie Collyer (Dream Home, Promise) Under the direction of acclaimed theatre maker Emma Valente (Co-Artistic Director of The Rabble), this wonderfully original play is a witty and genre-defying ride into the world of two women with superpowers. Featuring Red Stitch ensemble member Caroline Lee, alongside Lucy Ansell (Force of Nature: The Dry 2, Strife) and First Nations actor Laila Thaker (Five Bedrooms, Wentworth), the show follows Phoenix and Nel, two friends who take a lot of care and do a lot of good.
But when celebrity chef Rae arrives at one of their weekly support meetings, she turns their world upside down. As they transform from stealth crusaders to global superstars their powers escalate beyond control. Until it isn’t.
Described as 'a hilarious and poignant exploration of power, care, and friendship, Super has been developed over several years and commissioned by Red Stitch through its INK program.
Shortlisted for the Queensland Premier’s Drama Award , the play interrogates what it means to care in a world that commodifies compassion and measures worth by productivity.
Previews: June 11-17; Season: June 18 - July 6. Tues., Wed. and Sun., 6.30pm, Wed. June 18, Thurs.-Sat., 7.30pm. Matinees (June 19 and 25, 12 Noon and July 5, 2pm)
Q&A’s Post Show Wed. June 25, Thurs. June 19, 26 .
Cheryl Threadgold
Batshit
■ In a marvellous display of the power of the well-written and well-performed monologue, Batshit was a moving and at times hilarious personal statement of the struggle for independence and respect sought by women.
Frustrated by the traditional role models of wife and mother prevalent in the 1960s, a woman, Gwen, seeks some semblance of freedom.
However, the predominantly male medical profession sees this as a sign of madness. Consequently , Gwen is incarcerated in a mental health hospital, drugged and subjected to electro shock therapy.
Written by Leah Shelton and Christine Shelton in collaboration with Ursula Martinez, the script was a fantastic example of a polished and exemplary use of multimedia to tell a story.
A variety of stage techniques were used incorporating elements such as found documents of Gwen’s medical history, voiceover from her daughter about her mother’s experiences and audience interaction. As a result the narrative overall, while occasionally too didactic, was strong, clear and affecting.
This one-woman show was performed by one of the co-writers and Gwen’s granddaughter Leah Shelton. It was a marvellous performance, full of subtlety and nuance which, while clearly deeply personal, never became indul-
gent or sentimental.
Shelton showed great stage craft and skill in her telling of her grandmother’s tale.
This would undoubtedly have been, in part, due to the excellent direction of Ursula Martinez and the wonderful work of the production team that put the show together.
Confident and assured in her seamless blending of the various media used, Martinez never allowed these various techniques to outshine the wonderful performance she drew from Shelton.
What a shame then that this wonderful show had such a limited season at the Fairfax Studio and it is hoped that it will return to Melbourne some time in the not-too-distant future.
Venue: Fairfax Studio, Arts Centre, 100 St Kilda Rd
For further information about the event: artscentremelbourne.com.au/whats-on/2025/ theatre/batshit
Review by Peter Murphy
El 47
■ El 47 tells the true story of Manolo Vital (Eduard Fernández), a bus driver living in Torre Baró, a slum area nestling in the hills surrounding Barcelona
Vital, frustrated by the inaction of the City Council to provide a bus route to the town, hijacks his bus and drives it to his neighbourhood.
The background to Vital’s nonviolent protest has its roots in the Spanish Civil War.
The townspeople, formerly inhabitants of Extremadura, a southern Spanish city that suffered merciless repression at the hands of the Francoist Nationalists, migrated to the hills of Barcelona. The people of Torre Baró built the shantytown village with their bare hands.
In 1975, the Franco dictatorship collapsed, and Spain embraced democracy; however, change came slowly for the people of Torre Baró.
Years of neglect by both the Franco regime and the new government precipitated Vital’s act of lone protest. By 1978, the year the film is set, the town still lacked access to hot water and public transportation.
Weighed down by other concerns, the fledgling Spanish democracy ignored the demands of the working-class neighbourhood.
During one of his work shifts, Vital, fighting against inaction, commandeered the number 47 bus driving to Torre Baró instead of his customary route. Bus passengers and locals joined the popular protest as Vital coaxed the bus up the winding roads.
Directed by Marcel Barrena, Fernández shines as the unlikely hero of this feel-good film, revisiting the wounds of Spain’s violent history.
Clara Segura as Carmen, Vital’s wife and a former nun, and Zoe Bonafonte as daughter, Joana, provide excellent performances.
But it is Fernández, as the everyman fighting the system, that steals not only a bus, but also our hearts.
Palace Cinemas. For details of the Spanish Film Festival visit spanishfilmfestival.com Review by Kathryn Keeble
Foil, Arms, Hog
Sean Finnegan, Connor McKenna, Sean Flanagan.
■ The need to laugh is central to a happy human existence. Irish comedy trio Foil, Arms and Hog are about to land on Australian shores with their show Skittish.
Performing their international tour are three Irish lads - Sean Finnegan (Foil), Connor McKenna (Arms) and Sean Flanagan (Hog)
They decided on the unusual stage name as they have been mates for years, and they thought their nicknames for each other would stand out.
Blonde Finnegan is Foil, as he is always the comic foil for his co-performers. Connor McKenna, the tall member of the trio, says he was always all arms and legs in their rehearsals, so he was dubbed Arms. The other Sean, curly-headed Sean Flanagan, gets the plum character roles so he was named Hog, as Connor and Sean say he always hogs the limelight.
Like the famous comics they take their inspiration from, the Monty Python lads, Foil, Arms and Hog went to university together in various fields, but spent far more time dreaming up their comedy act than paying attention in class.
Unlike many modern comedy acts, their humour is never cruel or crude, but focuses on the simple absurdities of life, one of which McKenna says is being Irish. Cue skits and jokes about being Irish or being Irish Catholic.
But their comedy doesn’t stray into offensive territory, which is why they have gathered a world-wide following on Youtube. Enjoy Foil Arms and Hog at 8pm in Hamer Hall on Monday July 16, and tickets are available at artscentre.com.au
Julie Houghton
Auditions
■ Essendon Community Theatre: Cosi (by Louis Nowra) June 16 at 7pm, June 21 at 7pm, June 21 at 11am, June 22 at 10am. Callbacks June 224 at the Bradshaw Street Community Hall, Bradshaw St., Essendon. Director: Rosalin Shafik-Eid. Further details: essendontheatrecompany.com.au/auditions ■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group: Marian, or the true tale of Robin Hood (by Adam Szymkowicz) June 15 – 18 at the Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman St., Strathmore. Director: Brian Edmond. Audition enquiries: bedled@hotmail.com or call 0417 694 567
■ Williamstown Little Theatre: The Hollow Crown (by John Barton) June 29 at 1.00pm and June 30 at 7.30pm at 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Peter Newling. Audition bookings: www.wlt.org.au/book-tickets
Cheryl Threadgold
Affordable Art Fair
■ Set against the backdrop of the Royal Exhibition Building, this four-day event (August 28-31) will transform into an art-lover’s paradise – showcasing a curated lineup of local galleries, a First Nations spotlight, interactive installations, and programming for all ages. Original artworks are priced between $100 and $10,000.
Venue : Royal Exhibition Building, Nicholson St, Carlton Tickets: https://affordableartfair.com/ fairs/melbourne/
● ● ● ● Caroline Lee in Super at Red Stitch Actors' Theatre.
Photo: Cameron Grant, Parentheses.
● ●
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
CATO THE WISE
Maxwell Newton
★ Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets returns with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra at Hamer Hall on June 10-13 next year.
★The State Library of Victoria has raised a significant portion of the $200,000 needed to digitise some of its most fragile family history records.
★The Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia is announce Spark Grants, designed to spark big ideas and diverse events for Social Sciences Week from Seotember 8-14. The Academy will award Spark Grants of up to $1000; total program funding available is $10,000, excl GST. Applications close at 5pm AEST Monday, June 30.
★Elmo’s Circus Dream , a new live stage spectacular makes its premiere at Caulfield Racecourse from June 27 to August 3. This original production brings the world of Sesame Street to life in a fusion of circus artistry, music, and imagination.
★Because of Parkinsons’ Disease , local author Raven Moffitt has decided to accelerate their lifelong dream to write and publish 10 books over the next five years. Now, they are aiming to do it before Christmas this year.
★The Veil is a major new exhibition at Buxton Contemporary, University of Melbourne, Cnr Southbank Boulevard and Dodds Street, Southbank. it features artists Hayley Millar Baker, Hannah Gartside, Aneta Grzeszykowska, Glenda Nicholls, Lisa Waup and Lena Yarinkura, running from June 27 to November 1.
★Australian Book Review launches a new era with this month’s issue, the first by incoming Editor Georgina Arnott
★The Winter Blues Festival 25th anniversary celebrations in Echuca-Moama from July 24–27 will include a second wave of artists including Bek Jensen, Claude Hay and The Kung Fu Mustard, Eddy and the Exciters, Fools, George Macfloyd Blues Band, Glenn Skuthorpe, Louise MacGregor, Luke Harrington, Mike Elrington, Nathan Cavaleri, Oscar LaDell, Paul Buchanan's Blues Xpress, Pete Cornelius, Phil Para, Salt and Steel, Smoke Stack Rhino, Sweet Talk, The Rory Phillips Trio and The Windsavers.
★Bacchus Marsh -based au thor Matt Romania has launched a book to support regional charities and groups. Heart and Soul of Marketing promises to help charities amplify their impact – even with tiny teams.
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
Rourke’s Reviews Entertainment
★Tickets have gone on sale for the major musical Anastasia, which will have its Australian premiere at the Regent Theatre in Melbourne in December.
★The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra announces the return of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in concert, june 10-13 next year, at Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall.
★The Australian Institute of Landscape Architects presentations were made last Thursday (June 5). Award winners included Bridge Mall Redevelopment (Ballarat) and Woodlea Town Centre. Community Contribution winners were Tony Patches, Lalor Neighbourhood House Garden. Gardens Awards went to Hudge House, Green Our Roof and Private Garden. Health and Eduxcation Landscapes recognition went to Richmond High School, Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence and Moondani Balluk.
★Renowned director Chris Latham, artist in residence at the Australian War Memorial, will presents excerpts from two historic wartime compositions, at the Shrine Aufditorium at 2.30pm4.30pm on Sunday, June 22. $10.
★Piano Man: The Music of Billy Joel will be presented by the MSO at 7.30pm on Friday, November 14 and 1pm on Saturday, November 15 at the Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall.
★The team behind She Won’t Be Right Mate - a Yarra Valley family-friendly mental health fundraiser - has raised over $80,000 since 2019 for Eastern Health to support critical local mental health programs. The 2025 event might not happen on December 6 because the major sponsor has stepped back due to economic pressures. A new sponsor is sought. Contact Marcus Reeves at www.shewontbe rightmate.net.au
★ ' Amy Winehouse Ressurected' will be presented by Ella’s Music Club at Memo Music Hall at 6pm and 9pm on Saturday, June 28.
★Jack Hodgins is writing a book about Hoadley’s Battle of the Sounds. This was the largest annual music event in the country from 1966 until 1972.
★The Fox's Fifi, Fev & Nick is bringing back 'The Underdogs' - the eel-good footy team made up of kids who've missed out on playing sports due to illness, bullying or challenging times. On Saturday, June 21. The Underdogs will play the official curtain-raiser to the Carlton v North Melbourne at the MCG.
Morning Melodies
■ Celebrating its 40th year of operation, the Morning Melodies daytime concert series had the well-known culinary icon Maggie Beer curate an hour or so of music performed at Hamer Hall by Orchestra Victoria.
The program chosen by Beer consisted of seven short pieces from composers Mendelssohn, Sutherland, Mascagni, Brahms, Delibes, Gershwin and Marquez and included well-known works such as the Flower Duet from Lakme (Delibes) and Hungarian Dance No 5 (Brahms).
While the format of each Morning Melodies concert does vary from month to month, in this instance it consisted of Greta Bradman, who regularly presents on ABC Classic-FM, introducing each piece while conversing with Beer about her musical selections and why they were important to her.
The lovely rapport between Bradman and herself meant that, while admitting to some nerves, Beer very quickly relaxed and told entertaining and often amusing anecdotes relating to each of the seven pieces.
These spanned tales from her youth when she poached at midnight in the wilds of Scotland to more recent stories of dinners with friends, piano-playing and much singing and merriment, in and out of the kitchen.
Conducted with verve by Carlo Antonioli, Orchestra Victoria were in fine form. There was a fair degree of variety in the demands made on the orchestra by the seven pieces, but the orchestra took it all in their stride.
For two of the pieces it was joined by soprano Nina Korbe and mezzosoprano Syrah Torii when they sang the Flower Duet and then, going solo, Korbe sang Summertime from Gershwin’s Porgy and Bass.
The beautiful voices of both singers filled Hamer Hall as they, together with the orchestra, gave wonderful renditions of these two moving songs.
A wonderful guest, charming conversation and delightful music all added up to a fitting tribute to Morning Melodies in this, its 40th year.
Venue: Hamer Hall, 100 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne.
Morning Melodies further details: artscentremelbourne.com.au/festivaland-series/morning-melodies
Review by Peter Murphy
Flashes
■ Jan Russ is to be the special guest at the Marquee Entertainment Industry luncheon to be held at South Melbourne on Tuesday (June 18), convened by Jeff Joseph.
■ A tribute to the life of entertainer Marcie Jones is due to be held at the luncheon.
■ Melbourne Symphony Orchestra's third album in partnership with LSO Live, Gustav Holst: The Planets and Deborah Cheetham Fraillon: Earth, is out now.
■ The Australian Communications and Media Authority has found four wagering service providers –Buddybet, Ultrabet, VicBet and Topbet – breached rules that protect people who registered with BetStop –the National Self-Exclusion Register.
■ The Melbourne International Film Festival will be held from August 7-24.
■ Ross Wilson and The Peaceniks continue their 50 Years of Hits Tour with a show at 8pm on Saturday, June 28, at Clocktower, Moonee Ponds
The Sisters Brothers
■ (MA). 121 minutes. Now available on DVD.
Renowned French film-maker
Jacques Audiard (A Prophet, Rust And Bone and the recent, Oscar winning Emilie Perez ) made his English language debut with The Sisters Brothers , a smart deconstruction of the traditional western, which sees its title characters in an increasingly unique light.
Using the Gold Rush as its backdrop, we are introduced to bounty hunter brothers Eli (John C. Reilly) and Charlie (Joaquin Phoenix), whose ruthless reputation precedes them, as they carry out their tasks with no questions asked.
Their powerful boss, known as The Commodore (a barely glimpsed Rutger Hauer), enlists the duo to hunt down Kemit Warm (Riz Ahmed), who has apparently stolen from him, but will not go into specifics.
Also on the case is Morris (Jake Gyllenhaal), who is already closely watching Warm, but circumstances change when all three pursuers find out what Warm has in his possession, leading to numerous unforeseen complications.
Based on the 2011 novel by Patrick deWitt, co-writer/director Audiard l ovingly plays with the western’s form, stripping the genre of its mythology and carved-instone righteousness, while instilling the material with striking humanity and heart (its finale is particularly moving).
Performances are outstanding, with Reilly and Phoenix sharing wonderful chemistry together, while Ahmed has one of his best roles to date.
Beautifully crafted, The Sisters Brothers is a film to seek out and savour, providing strong entertainment for adult audiences.
RATING - ****
The Guilty
■ (M). 85 minutes. Now available on DVD.
For those who felt starved of genuinely gripping thrillers in recent years, then this superb 2018 effort from Denmark was a major shot in the arm, delivering a magnificently satisfying film filled with twists, turns, and tension.
Set at an Emergency Services Call Centre, the story centres on Asger Holm (Jacob Cedergren), a police officer currently under investigation, who has been relegated to dispatch operator until the matter has been concluded.
Dismissive and condescending to those who call in, Asger soon finds himself in uncomfortable territory when he takes a call from a woman who suggests she has been kidnapped, but cannot say anything as her abductor is right next to her.
As the situation becomes more dangerous, Asger tries to help the woman any way he can, before everything goes pear-shaped.
Director Gustav Moller, working from a taut, intelligent script by he and Emil Nygaard Albertsen, keeps proceedings claustrophobic
and intimate, never wasting a moment as he slowly turns the screws on both his main character and the viewer.
Cedergren is exceptional as Asger, bringing considerable dramatic weight to the production’s one-set location. The 2021 remake starring Jake Gyllenhaal is nowhere near as good.
RATING - ****½
Exit
■ (M). 103 minutes. Now available on DVD.
What is basically two movies for the price of one, this largely high concept feature is executed with plenty of energy and conviction, helping gloss over its implausibilities and ever-so-slightly running out of steam before the end credits roll.
Cho Jung-seok stars as Yongnam, a university graduate who is about to turn 40, is unemployed, single, and still living with his parents (much to the annoyance of his sisters, who are all married).
When the venue he booked to celebrate his mother’s 70th birthday happens to have his old uni crush Ui-joo (Yoona, of Girls’ Generation fame) as one of its employees, Yong-nam thinks his luck has changed for the better.
But when a mysterious assailant sets off a huge amount of lethal gas in the area, Yong-nam and Ui-joo, who were avid rock-climbers at university, have to use their skills to get from building to building and out of the danger zone before the deadly gas rises.
Debutant writer/director Lee Sang-geun shows great confidence in carrying off such an unlikely premise, and isn’t afraid to embrace its improbabilities, so when the change from dysfunctional family comedy to action-disaster epic occurs, the character arcs remain, and the momentum doesn’t falter.
Cho (Architecture 101, The Face Reader) and Yoona (Confidential Assignment) are immensely likeable, while the effects and stuntwork are first-rate.
Exit is an entertaining hybrid of genres that found a dedicated cult following.
RATING - **** Aaron Rourke
In Memory of
Aaron Rourke
■ When the ITV drama series Foyle's War began on television here in Australia in 2002 my wife was an instant fan.
I said I was not interested and did not have the time to devote to watching the show.
But when the whole series was replayed on cable television for some obscure reason I started watching and became hooked.
I am now a fan and I am fascinated with Honeysuckle Weeks who plays Foyle's chauffeur Samantha Stewart
Honeysuckle Weeks (she was named after the flower) was born in Cardiff, Wales in 1979. Her sister Perdita and brother Rollo are also in the acting profession.
Honeysuckle grew up in Sussex and started her acting career with Chichester Festival Youth Theatre
In 1993 after failing an audition for Les Miserables Honeysuckle was cast in the television series Goggle Eyes and played the role of Kitty
.
She had guest roles in many television shows including The Bill
In 1997 she was cast opposite her sister Perdita in the period drama The Rag Nymph Honeysuckle was dating Hugh Grant at one stage but the relationship did not last very long.
Honeysuckle loves the theatre and during her extensive stage career has played roles such as Viola in a touring production of Twelfth Night,
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
Whatever Happened To ... Honeysuckle Weeks
By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM
the Marlene Dietrich role in Witness for the Prosecution and Eliza Doolittle in Pygmalion for the Chichester Festival.
She starred in the UK premiere of Melanie Marnich's play These Shining Lives.
Honeysuckle was engaged to the poet and musician Anno Birkin for a short period before his death in a car crash in Italy in 2001.
The following year Honeysuckle was cast as the character Samantha Stewart in the television series Foyle's War
Samantha is a young woman during the Second World War in the UK who becomes the chauffeur for Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle
The series is set in Hastings. It has been in
production over a period for 13 years and there have been nine seasons.
Honeysuckle was nominated in the Most Popular Newcomer category at the National Television Awards in 2004.
Honeysuckle married hypnotherapist Lorne Stormonth-Darling in 2007.
Sadly, the marriage ended in 2019 and four years later Lorne died at the age of 69. They have a son wade from their marriage.
She has remained good friends with Michael Kitchen who plays Christopher Foyle in the popular series.
Honeysuckle insists that she is nothing like her character Samantha Stewart and several years ago she actually went topless in the film The Wicker Tree
I think Honeysuckle Weeks is just great in Foyle's War and I am glad that I actually got around to watching the program.
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
CAMBERWELL ART SHOW HAS RICH HISTORY
■ The first Art Show was held at Camberwell Grammar School featuring 1042 artworks
One of the principal objectives then was the acquisition of artworks as a basis for a collection for the City of Camberwell (now City of Boroondara) and its citizens.
The Art Show moved to its current location and featured in the official launch of the new Camberwell Town Hall with 1357 works.
By 1972, the Art Show had over 2000 entries. In that year the Study Grant Prize was instated and David Taylor , whose works are now well regarded, was the first winner.
The Art Show’s entries peaked over 4000 in 1983.
The City of Boroondara has supported the Art Show since its inception. Following the demise of the Herald Outdoor Art Show in 1999 the Herald Sun became the art show’s major sponsor until 2020.
The Rotary Club of Camberwell is appreciative of the support of Swinburn University as the major sponsor of the Camberwell Art Show.
Exhibition opens June 26 and closes July 6. Camberwell Art Show Advanced Technologies Centre Swinburne University 427 Burwood Rd. Hawthorn
Kingston Arts
Generations Connections to Country
Brining family together in a special exhibition on Country, Generations; connections to Country exhibits recent and contemporary works by celebrated artists, Maree Vlarke (Mutti Mutti, Wamba Wamba Yorta Yorta , Boonwurrung), Mitch Mahoney (Boon Wurrung, Mutti Mutti, Wemba Wemba, Nukunu, Kokatha and Dharug), Molly Mahoney (Boowurrung/ Barkindji), Kerri Clarke (Boonurrung, Mutti Mutti).
|Featuring contemporary glass sculptures, photography, video, weaving, screenprints and possum skin cloaks, displayed throughout the galleries and across Kingston Arts Precinct on Kingston’s new outdoor lightbox gallery and nightly outdoor projections.
The Arts
Exhibition opens Friday June 13 and closes Saturday July 2. Kingston Arts
G1 and G2 Gallery 979 Nepean Hwy, Moorabbin
Burrinja
Artful Alliance
Alison Fabiny and Vicki Singleton
Photographer Alison Fabiny and mixed media artist Vickie Singleton invite you to a breathtaking visual dialogue between detail and texture, stillness and vibrancy.
Alison’s floral portrait photography, some inspired by her quiet elegance of Japanese wabi- sabi, captures fleeting botanical moments with extraordinary precision and depth.
Her masterful use of natural and strobe lighting, combined with thoughtful composition, elevates each flower into something transcendentinviting viewers to pause, learn, and truly see.
Her work is not just about beauty, but about presence.
In perfect harmony, Vickie’s richly textured mixed media and acrylic artworks burst into life and colour, drawing from the rhythms and patterns of the natural world.
Each piece is a layered, tactile experience- alive with intuition , joy, and emotional dept.
Her vibrant works have earned local acclaim and can be found in her
studio at Burrinja Cultural Centre
Together, Alison and Vicki create an exhibition that encourages you to slow down, look closer, and rediscover the wonder the wonder details that often go unnoticed.
Exhibition closes Sunday Jume 19
★ ngurrak-al marram0u/ body of the mountain Walking together across Corhanwarrabul (Dandenong Ranges) , a group of artists shared place-responsive practices and considered what ir means to listen to Country through their diverse perspectives. ngurrak-al marram,-u / body of the mountain is an exhibition outcome from this mobile residency.
Curated by Gretel Taylor with Gulsen Ozer and Mandy Nicholsen, the exhibition includes painting, screendance, sound installation, textiles, sculpture, digital and cyanotype photography.
Exhibition closes Sunday July 13.
Burrinja Gallery
351 Glenfern Rd, Upwey
- Peter Kemp
Video game scores
■ Orchestra Victoria brings video game sores to life with Indie Symphony II returns to Hamer Hall for two nights on July 3 and 4.
It will feature soundtracks from bestselling and fan-favourite independent videogames
It will feature Baldur's Gate 3, Undertale, Hades II and more.
This follows a hugely successful, capacity-audience inaugural event in 2023.
Award-winning musician and avid gamer, Montaigne, will sing parts from Baldur's Gate 3, principal operatic soprano Justine Anderson will sing parts from Everybody's Gone to the Rapture and Cult of the Lamb and Concordia Chamber Choir will perform parts in Everybody's Gone to the Rapture, Hades II, ABZÛ and Baldur's Gate 3
Making a special guest appearance composer Dan Golding will play the ‘Honk’ in a special Untitled Goose Concerto for Honk
Trifecta for Sam
third consecutive year. This year's awards will be held at The Star, Sydney, August 3.
Let’s Do Something
■ Lewis Pugh is an endurance swimmer, aged 55. His latest swim was to be the first person to swim around Martha's Vineyard island, a popular tourist destination near Cape Cod, USA. Lewis took the plunge and commenced the challenge . He swam during daylight hours , ate and slept on terra firma, and 12 days later he had achieved his objective of being the first human to complete the 97km trek, and no doubt an entry in the Guinness Book of Records
Grand Final whisper
■ At this point in time the smart money isthat Sir Elton John and Band will be the headline act this this year's AFL Grand Final. Elton's appearance would happen to coincide his trip to Asia to headline at the Asian Grand Prix. Could it be ? We'll keep you posted.
Bieber’s neighbours
■ Never a dull moment in the lives of one-time pop idol Justin Bieber and his wife. Recently both have been involved in much publicised business decisions, for instance the dreams Justin boasted of his attempt to launch a range of lifestyle clothing, and accessories has failed to get off the launch pad. A real bomb. Better news for Hailey Bieber who has sold her Rhode cosmetics range to an American entrepreneur for $US 1Billion, and retains her position as Creative Director.
730 jobs for Victoria
■ Glad to report another TV series is underway in country Victoria offering 730 job opportunities. Six-part series is called 'The Dispatcher' and is a hair-raising thriller to be shot on location in Warrnambool, Mornington Peninsula and Yarra Valley. Lead actor in the thriller is Patrick Brammell who won a lot of admirers in his portrayal as Colin from Accounts. On screen release date yet to be announced.
with Peter Kemp
■ Sam Pang has been selected as presenter of the 2025 Logies Awards for the
John O’Keefe
OK. With John O’Keefe
● ● Honeysuckle Weeks
● ● Sam Pang
(Back load Specialist. Conditions apply)
24 HOURS7 DAYS A WEEK
(Scrap bin available)
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
Observer Melbourne Lovatts Crossword No 4
Across Across Down Down
1. Overbalancing
6. Flusters
11. Genetic inheritance
15. Lunar ray
20. Company head (1,1,1)
21. Sloped backwards
22. Vat
23. Relays (6,2)
24. Stipulations
25. Maturity
27. Having no pips
28. Half
29. Quay
31. Hunter's quarry
32. Laud
36. Humiliating remark (3-4)
37. Chilled cuppa (4,3)
38. Honey drink
41. Defensive castle ditches
44. Scientist, ... Newton
45. Latin American dance
48. Rugby handling error (5-2)
49. Royal offspring
52. Trick into crime
56. Competition
57. Fall
58. Adopt (policy)
61. Pranks
62. Greek shipping magnate
63. Kinder
64. Spotted pattern, ... dots
65. Sorcerers
66. Passage (of goods)
67. Brazilian music style (5,4)
71. Undeveloped insect
73. Uncensored (movie)
75. Gladdened
80. Large rodents
82. Rome or Naples native
83. Nosegay
85. Authenticity
86. Comedy team, Monty ...
88. Puzzle
90. Peter Pan writer (1,1,6)
91. Honoured with party
93. Kidnappers' demands
94. Pledges
95. Draw attention away
96. Terrorist's captive
97. Leave room
99. Tiny amount
100. Arms cache
104. Actress, Vivien ...
105. Mutilates
106. Wine, ... Riesling
107. Surgical insert
111. Singer, ... Minogue
113. Glacial period, ... Age
114. Yes in French
115. Frightening
117. Tennis star, Andre ...
118. Revolving tray, lazy ...
121. Peace prize
122. Visual perception
125. Bred
126. Fabled whale, ... Dick
127. Liquefy
129. Wine barrels
131. Exclude
132. Verb modifier
135. As far as (2,2)
136. Ripped apart, torn ...
139. Boulder
140. Speared
144. Magician's ... Pocus
145. Rest on knees
146. Ultra manly
147. Hard copy (5-3)
148. Contagious outbreak
149. Crisscross weave
150. Diaper
152. Chat-show hostess, ... Winfrey
154. Speaker
157. Mongolian desert
158. Announce (4,3)
162. Eye membrane
163. Legless grub
166. Timber fastener
167. Twig shelter
169. Immediately following 171. Oriental continent
172. Violet/blue
173. Male deer
175. Bumpkins
176. Skid Row drink
179. Lusaka is there
180. Cutting beam
182. Relaxation art, t'ai ...
183. Adult education group (1,1,1)
184. Portion
186. Doctor's ... manner
189. Ganges country
190. Last Greek letter
191. Milan opera house, La ...
192. Swirling
196. Stagger
197. Hitler follower
198. Casablanca is there
199. Popular hymn (3,5)
201. Boatman
202. Seepage
203. Harsh-tasting
204. Pre-dinner sherry
205. Touched with lips
208. Defeated
210. Unaffected
211. Sheet of glass
212. Go back in (2-5)
213. Consequently
215. Vending machine
219. Dame Nellie ...
221. Belittle
223. Criminal fire-starters
227. Pastry snacks, Cornish ...
228. Harms
230. Two times
231. Cardiac organ
232. Indian leader, ... Gandhi
233. Lady's title
234. Redesign (hair)
238. Manoeuvring space
239. Enchant
240. Most timid
243. By mouth
246. Raises (5,2)
247. Requirements
250. Mountainous
251. Ancient
253. Length measures
256. Day-to-day
257. Granted
258. Merriest
262. Single sound system
263. Drive off
266. Dowdy
268. Slandered
269. Sleeker
270. Slender toughness
271. Long race
272. Gist (of story)
273. Argentina's Buenos ...
274. Beatles, The ... Four
275. Summer frock
276. Bemuse
277. Accented
278. Curly-tailed marine creature (3,5)
1. Extra serving (3-2)
2. Noodle food
3. Welsh vegetables
4. Non-coms (1,1,2)
5. Swiss city
7. Cockerel
8. Mythical horned horse
9. Junior Girl Guides
10. Waist ribbon
11. German Mr
12. Imposing buildings
13. Factor
14. Lethargy
15. Artefacts gallery
16. Comply with
17. Gentle prod
18. Expel
19. Skinflint
24. Time signals
26. Luncheon meat
30. Davy Crockett's fort
33. Collided with (3,4)
34. Cuts into
35. Passion
38. Louder
39. Absurd pretence
40. Condense
42. Burden of responsibility
43. Cylindrical
46. Social chaos
47. Concoct
49. Punishment
50. Become liable for
51. Sure
53. Sea god
54. Souvenir
55. Spectre
59. Mollifies
60. Ill-matched
67. German alpine state
68. Broken-limb supports
69. Et cetera (3,2,2)
70. Insensitively
72. Minor planets
74. Modernising (software)
76. Easy seat
77. Joins forces (5,2)
78. Buddhist heaven
79. Lowest (voice)
81. Last Supper guests
84. Briniest
87. Upstage
89. Nudist
91. Turns into alcohol
92. Break (partnership)
98. Portugal's capital
101. Inflexible
102. Eventuate
103. Hands on hips
108. Flowering shrub, crape ...
109. Commit to memory
110. Sister's daughter
112. Childbirth contractions (6,5)
116. Marzipan (6,5)
119. Most important
120. Adding up (to)
123. Hebrew
124. Vietnam's ... City (2,3,4)
128. Toils
130. Singer or dancer
132. Let in
133. Outspoken
134. SE France river
137. Extremely
138. US naval port, San ...
141. Star, ... Centauri
142. Cymbals sound
143. Failed to (4'1)
151. Golfer, ... Palmer
153. Astonished
155. Cowgirl, ... Oakley
156. Fuses (of bones)
159. Somalia's neighbour
160. Receipt
161. Not moved (by argument)
164. Crippled
165. Pungent bulb
168. Intensify (of war)
170. December conifer (4,4)
173. Ceylon (3,5)
174. Letter recipient
177. Fellow players
178. Bridging
181. Vigorous exercise classes
185. Career barriers, glass ...
186. Blitz
187. Makes gloomy
188. Tilt
193. Expressionless
194. Sloping typeface
195. Slums
200. Gains entry to
201. Dirtily
206. Prisoners
207. Fabric retailers
208. More cocky
209. Stiffly
211. Financed in advance
214. Ground oats
216. Massive
217. Illegal hunter
218. Britain's 1066 invaders
220. Non-clergy
222. In vain, to no ...
224. Giving green light to 225. Unsuitably
226. Abnormal tissue growths
229. Bargain sell-off
232. Man
235. Heavenly
236. Bell-shaped flower
237. Government supporter
241. Rugby fending move (4-3)
242. Slipped by
244. Greed
245. Boarders
248. Second book in Bible
249. Air pollution
251. Betting chances
252. Stage-plays
253. Childhood swelling disease
254. Hawk's claw
255. Famous Swiss mountain
259. Flooded (of decks)
260. Anaesthetic
261. 1000 kg unit
262. The M of YMCA (3'1)
264. Canadian lake
265. Female sheep
267. Baseballer, ... Ruth
By Rob Foenander
Newport 2025
■ The annual Newport Folk Festival takes off on July 4-5. A number of venues around the town will play host to a list of performers from 11am onwards. The Festival primarily exists for members of the Newport Fiddle and Folk Club to celebrate, participate and enjoy local music. More info, phone 1300 799 136.
Melinda at Memo
■ Golden Guitar -winning singersongwriter Melinda Schneider is hitting the road this year to celebrate her highly anticipated album, Tender — her first original album in over a decade. Known for her heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies, Melinda’s new release marks a deeply personal and empowering return to her country music roots, embracing vulnerability, love, and resilience, says her media release. Memo Music Club, Friday, October 10. Tickets at Trybooking. Rob Foenander
MONA exhibition
■ The Museum of Old and New Art (Mona) has unveiled Italian sculptor Arcangelo Sassolino’s first solo exhibition in Australia, on display until April 6, 2026. From dripping metal to splintering wood, in the end, the beginning features a selection of kinetic sculptures that push matter to their edges, and coincides with the first week of Dark Mofo. The exhibition’s title piece, in the end, the beginning, sees one of Mona’s subterranean galleries showered with molten steel.
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
Thrones parody at Alex. Theatre
■ The Victorian premiere of Thrones! The Musical Parody is now playing at St Kilda’s Alex Theatre
It is described as a “ bloody, sexy snow storm”. It follows smash hit seasons at Sydney Opera House and Edinburgh Fringe
Created by the globally acclaimed comedy ensemble Baby Wants Candy , that launched the careers of Saturday Night Live’s Aidy Bryant and Silicon Valley’s Thomas Middleditch - Thrones! The Musical Parody is guaranteed laugh out loud entertainment, according to the promoters.
House of the Dragon fans can relive the original, blockbuster TV show in an all-out parody that crams eight seasons of Game of Thrones into a fun filled 90 minutes. Apart from that damned ending which has been rewritten to full glory, complete with a catchy tune titled ‘Ending That You Want’.
“This musical is whipping the world like only a White Walker can, with tickets selling salaciously fast via www.thrones.com.au from just $59.
“Ridiculously handsome men battling White Walkers. Ridiculously beautiful women riding firebreathing dragons. And everyone is either trying to kill or shag each other. Nudity? Maybe. Laughs? For sure.
“The hilarious cast sing and dance their way through their own warped idea of Westeros, with
Crossword Solution No 4
unique versions of plots and twists, and a side splitting original score featuring highlights from all seasons.
“Melbourne has proven its insatiable appetite for Game of Thrones (GoT) , staging ThronesCon in 2017 and home to some of the world’s highest rates of pirated downloads of the series.
“This Victorian premiere season also coincides with ComicCon 2025 in Melbourne.
“Cast member Conor Putland can’t wait to see how their adopted home town responds to this new production of the global smash hit parody.
“I’m such a huge fan of the series. The audience responses are so fun. GoT diehards will be able to relive all their favourite moments in hilarious new ways, with Jon Snow battling White Walkers, a red wedding re-enactment (to a song called Stabbin’!), all the forbidden desires of Cersei and Jamie and so much more. Even if you’ve never seen the series, it’s still a night of non-stop entertainment,” says Conor.
The cast includes Kelsey Halge (Annette Hargrove in Cruel Intentions, Nicola and female swing in Kinky Boots- Green Room Award Production of the Year 2024), Belinda Jenkin (Friends! The Musical Parody Australian Tour, Love Actually? The Musical Parody), Conor Putland (Grease The Musical Australian Tour, Joey
in Friends! The Musical Parody), Crystal Hegedis (Mrs Caldwell in Cruel Intentions, Brooke Wyndham in Legally Blonde), Joseph Lizacic (Don in Kinky Boots), Asher Griffith-Jones (Stranger Juliet), Callum O'Malley (Billy Cane in Bright Star, Harry in Kinky Boots) and Zoe Rose (Cruel Intentions).
The mass appeal and worldwide phenomenon of the countlessEmmy-Award-winning-show is at the heart of Thrones! The Musical Parody.
“Rather than simply presenting a face-value send-up of the fantasy saga, this production’s internal narrative concerns a Friends -esque group of adults who descend upon their recently-divorced companion in an attempt to cheer her up as they watch the final episode of Game of Thrones together.
“When they discover that she has, in fact, never watched the show(!), they resolve to catch her up on the entire eight-season story by forcing her to join them in reenacting the series.
“What follows is a deliriously funny, energetic, anachronistic, barely linear, and seemingly slipshod summary of the complex, sweeping narrative of this bloody, sexy, unforgettable saga.
“The resulting musical celebrates as much as it lampoons, touching upon the many highlights of the series.
“With a book by Chicago's
improv masters Baby Wants Candy’s Albert Samuels, Chris Grace, Dan Wessels, Zach Reino, Nick Semar and Erica Elam, music and lyrics are by Albert Samuels, Chris Grace, Dan Wessels, Zach Reino, Nick Semar and Erica Elam
“Fans and newbies alike will revel in the nudity, violence and vulgarity that GoT is famous for. Don’t miss this deliciously obscene, superbly-paced, laugh-ridden parody. www.thrones.com.au
When: Now playing Where: Alex Theatre, 1/135 Fitzroy St, St Kilda Tickets are on sale now via www.thrones.com.au
Contributed
Storytelling
■ The Glen Eira’s 15th annual Storytelling Festival features a dynamic program of author talks and panel discussions, stories told through film and music, performances and events for children, along with comedy shows and hands-on workshops. Opening night, 4pm-6pm, on Saturday, June 21, will include a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country by the Boonwurrung Land and Sea Council Carnegie Library and Community Centre forecourt Free. No bookings required. Suitable for all ages.
Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson
Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson
REDEVELOPMENTS AT MOONEE VALLEY
■ The Moonee Valley Racing Club redevelopment remains on schedule to commence on November 1.
Over the past six months the Club has been focused on finalising the scope of works and budget for the racecourse and associated racing facilities, and exploring the opportunity to have harness racing return to the Valley
They are now in the final stages of contract negotiation with their civil works contractor, and plan to execute this important project contract before June 30.
The Club has selected Evergreen for their new racecourse.
The turf for the new track is currently growing at Evergreen Turf’s Pakenham farm.
The project plan is to see the new rurf laid at the Valley in October next year, which is anticipated to be completed in November.
This then provides a period of nine months for the new track to consolidate and settle ahead of the Club’s planned return to racing in August 2027.
The Club is well progressed in securing the necessary debt funding to undertake these works. They expect this to be finalised over the coming weeks.
It is pleasing to report that the project remains on schedule as they approach
Pleasingly, the MVRC’s projected returns from Moonee Valley Park Hostplus have increased significantly since the project commenced
By funding the redevelopment themselves, they retain full control of the scope and budget, and will continue to align delivery with forecasted future Moonee Valley distributions.
The Club and its members can be proud of the long-term investment that they are making into the future sustainability of the Victorian Racing Industry for generations to come.
Any key milestone is the finalisation of the Grandstand design.
The Club’s goal is to deliver a facility that meets the Club’s long-term needs, not only from a racing perspective, but also as a versatile venue capable of hosting events year-round.
The Club’s immediate priority is to confirm the final cost and contract for the racecourse civil works.
Once this is contracted, we will refine the Grandstand plans to ensure alignment with budget expectations.
The Club anticipate zbeing in a position with within the next three months to provide a clearer timeline for the commencement of the Grandstand construction.
Should the Grandstand not be completed in time for the racecourse’s reopening, the Club have developed plans outlining the temporary infrastructure required to deliver a major event such as the 2027 Ladbrokes Cox Plate.
This infrastructure would be designed to reflect the scale and significance of the occasion.
The Club remains committed to delivering ‘The Valley of Tomorrow’ as soon as possible, while maintaining discipline around the approved budget.
Ted Ryan
Stradbroke ready
■ The way things are going the popular Stradbroke Handicap to be run at Eagle Farm on June 14, could develop into another great
day. In early markets bookies have the smart mare Joliestar on top, with her form at present hard to match.
The top sprinter, Giga Kick, could go around here after finishing third in the Goodwood, and would give this a crack for sure.
Another that impressed in winning the Autumn Stakes at Caulfield was Angel Capital
It was with young Mornington trainer, Clinton McDonald.
However not long after winning the Autumn Stakes back on February 8 at Caulfield.
The owners decided to move the colt to Chris Waller.
It is beautifully bred, by leading sire, the Irish stallion, Harry Angel.
Another that fires alright is the Victorian Craig who is up there with the best.
Then we have the top Victorian mare,
Benedetta, which always puts in and her run in the 10,000 at Doomben was good, just missing the place finishing fourth.
She is a classy mare prepared by Jason Warren at Mornington, who has some horse in his time. She will run again here; you can’t leave her out.
Next is the last start winner at Caulfield, War Machine , following a good second behind Hedged at Mornington
At Caulfield she rounded them up beating Jimmy the Bear and Oscar’s Fortune
In the powerful camp of the Hayes brothers, he could be hard to beat here.
The Sydney galloper Kimochi is the next we will have a look at.
Sydney trainer, Gary Portelli, looks after the son of top Japanese sire, Brave Smash, and has some dash about him having competed against some of the best in the land.
He was runner-up in the Challenge Stakes, thenfifth at Randwick behind the speedster, Brisa, over 1200 metres.
Bosustow , named after the former great player, with the Blues, looked good winning the Gold Cast Guineas at big odds.
He formerly raced in Victoria, and now with Annabel Neasham and her husband, Rob Archibald, and looked good winning the classic at the Coast.
The Freedman pair, Anthony and his son Sam, look after Ameena, who ran a good fourth in the Goodwood in South Australia and goes alright.
Last but not least is the Hayes combination with Rise at Dawn who travels well. Ted Ryan
● ● War Machine. Racing Photos.
SMALL, NEAT CARD AT CHARLTON
■ A small but neat six event card commenced the week at Charlton on Monday June 2 and in form ‘man of the moment’ Long Forest based reinsman Jordan Leedham was successful aboard 5Y0 Jilliby Kung Fu-Inasafeplace mate Jilliby Tidalwave in the 1609 metre Ames Australia / VHRC – Benstud Standardbred Pace.
Trained on course by Tori Hutchins, Jilliby Tidalwave led throughout from gate three and rated to perfection, scored by 1.2 metres from another Charlton contender Hungry Hogarth (gate two) which trailed the winner easing outside her on the final bend. Presidential Change one/two from gate four was third. The margins 1.2 by 11.9 metres in a mile rate of 1-56.1.
■ Arcadia South part-owner/trainer Jaimie Egan combined with Connor Clarke to land the Heenan’s Charlton Newsagency / VHRC –GBL Properties Trotters Mobile over 2100 metres with 6Y0 Majestic Son-Aldebaran Etta mare Faith Full.
Enjoying a cosy trip from gate three on the back of the leader The Night Queen (gate two), Faith Full appeared to be travelling strongly all through the race and after extricating into the clear on the home turn, greeted the judge by 2.9 metres from Col Du Granon (gate five) along the sprint lane from three pegs. The Night Queen held third 5 metres away. The mile rate 2-03.6.
■ Leichardt trainer Ben Pell’s 9Y0 Mach Three-Western Spirit gelding Valente was a tough victor of the 2100 metre Community Bank Charlton and District / VHRC – Black Horse Naturals Pace returning a 1-57 mile rate. Driven by Goulburn Valley reinswoman Tasmyn Potter, Valiente starting solo on the second line settled with most of the field ahead of him as Katunga Express flew away from gate five to lead.
Going three wide in the last lap and four wide on the home turn, Valiente ran home strongly to gain the day by 1.6 metres over a death-seating last lap James Garner (gate three) after vacating the prime one/one spot at the bell. Katunga Express fought on gamely for third 5.3 metres back.
■ Hamilton’s ‘Gentleman’ Jim Barker at 91 years of age provided 6Y0 Bettors Delight-Ell M Aye gelding Doctor Go Joh to capture the 1609 metre Cricket Club Hotel – VHRC – Del Re National Foods Pace.
With granddaughter Jackie driving, Doctor Go Joh carrying the familiar colours of the Brimacombe family led all of they from gate two, accounting for the Noel Walsh (Robinvale) stablemates Ronzel Micky which trailed from the pole.
Ronzel Sonny after missing away from the extreme draw continued to obtain inside runs from the rear for third. The margins 2.4 by 2.2 metres in a mile rate of 1-58.3.
Night fixture
■ Tuesday’s regular Tuesday night’s fixture took place on June 3 with nine race programmed which saw Lancefield’s Rod Petroff victorious with 6Y0 Betting Line-Arivee gelding Ya Bottom Dollar in the 1690 metre Abbey and Abby SHRC Facebook Page Pace. Beginning swiftly from gate four to be outside Insider Trading (gate two) approaching the first turn before easing to receive a one/one trip, Ya Bottom Dollar after angling three wide on the final bend ran home best to gain the day by 1.5 metres from the consistent Lorimermajor (one/four – three wide last lap from gate three on the second line) and King Saint which followed the runner up home making the home turn five wide to be a half neck back third. The mile rate 1-58.1.
■ Seven year old Pet Rock-Our Miss Vivienne mare Rolling Remona trained at Wahring by Rosie Weidenbach and driven by son Kevin snared the Wednesday Wager SHRC Facebook Pace over 1690 metres returning a 2-00.3 mile rate.
Leading out from gate three, Rolling Remona was restrained to allow Where Wood Wood to cross her from outside the front line receiving the run of the race. Making full use of the sprint lane, Rolling Remona recorded a 4.2 metre victory over Rockstar Leo (one/four from gate two on the second line), with Wheres Wood Wood holding down third a head away.
■ Tongala trainer Michael Watt combined with
Harness Racing
len-baker@ bigpond.com
with Len Baker
local reinswoman Tasmyn Potter aboard 4Y0 For A Reason-Cee Goddess gelding With In Reason in the1690 metre Munro and Associates Pace.
After enjoying a sweet trip from gate four trailing the leader McWizard (gate three), With In Reason was eased three wide on the final bend, proving too strong for a death-seating Owen The Saints from outside the front line, with McWizard third. The margins 4.7 metres by a half head in a rate of 1-59.6.
■ Congupna trainer Steven Duffy’s American Ideal-Mystery Assassin colt American Assassin driven by Alby Ashwood was successful in the Willowwood Farm Maiden Pace over 2190 metres.
Bred and raced by Greg Bettiol, American Assassin was making his fifth race appearance and after settling three pegs from gate six came away from the inside in the last lap as polemarker Francs For Coming had safely retained the front running.
Going forward three wide shortly after, Ashwood switched the colt to the back of Francs For Coming on the home turn and using the sprint lane, raced clear to reach the wire by 1.2 metres over Francs For Coming returning a 2-01.5 mile rate. Krakey which went forward from mid-field in the running line to race outside the leader was third 12.8 metres back.
■ Northwood trainer Rodney Undy employed the services of Sean O’Sullivan to land the Goodfellows Pace over 1690 metres with Inside Leg, as 6Y0 gelded son of Pet Rock and Bella Gem.
Taken back to the tail of the field from gate four as the heavily supported Big Rig Saint led from gate two, Inside Leg after trailing I Like What I See home three wide in the last lap angled four wide on the final bend and overpowered I Like What I See to prevail by 1.9 metres. Big Rig Saint held third 3.3 metres away. The mile rate 1-59.9.
■ Harston part-owner/trainer Dennis Paton combined with Mark Pitt to capture the 2190 metre Mark Gurry and Associates Maiden Trotters Mobile over 2190 metres with 3Y0 Speeding Spur-Sheza Comment gelding Speedy Comment, leading most of the way from gate three to register an easy 21.4 metre margin from a death-seating Blondies Blis (gate three) and Bagsot Ollie (gate six – one/one) who was 9.4 metres back. The mile rate a pedestrian 2-06.1.
Double Day
■ Double day Wednesday saw Maryborough race in the afternoon and Bendigo at night. There were four trotting races at Maryborough with Bolinda trainer Brent Lilley taking two of them – 4Y0 Volstead-Piri Piri mare Prohibited Bid (Chris Alford) the Redpath Tyre and Battery Service Trotters Handicap over 2190 metres and 5Y0 Skyvalley-Kyvalley Pink gelding Kyvalley Anthony (Tristan Larsen) the 1690 metre Peter Egan Bi-Rite Electrical Trotters Mobile. Ex-Kiwi Prohibited Bid raced by a big syndication headed by Gary Dowling was given every opportunity one/two from a 30 metre backmark and ran home solidly to defeat Touchandgo (10m – four pegs along the sprint lane) by a half neck, with Singara Ted (20m –outside the leader Alfie Always (20m) from the bell) third a half head back third. The mile rate
2-04.5. Kyvalley Anthony after a fast beginning from gate four led throughout, accounting for polemarker Black And Gold which trailed and Parlezvous Patty (gate five which raced exposed) after being promoted when Fonda Rhonda (three wide last lap from the extreme draw and the tail) galloped over the line. The margins 5.1 by 5 metres in a mile rate of 2-00.6.
■ Trotting specialist Balliang trainer Tyrone Abela landed the 1690 metre Aldebaran Park 2Y0 Trotters Mobile with Franco American, a gelded son of Classic Connection and Calder Image bred and raced by Charlie Cauchi.
With Chris Alford in the sulky, Franco Americano (gate two) trailed the poleline leader Mystical Truscott before easing outside her on the home turn and after a head and head battle all the way up the running, made a last stride lunge to gain the day by a head in a rate of 205.3. Brooklyngotcourage was third 10.2 metres away after following the pair.
■ The Maryborough Golf Club Concession Drivers Pace over 2190 metres went the way of Lara trainer Jim Warnock’s speedy 9Y0 Western Terror-Kano Star gelding Caledonian Terra.
Driven by Ouyen Cup winning reinswoman Hannah Lewis, Caledonian Terra after showing his customary speed from gate six to lead, couldn’t be caught, reaching the wire 7.4 metres in advance of Roblen Ranger which trailed from the pole. Karuma Kev (one/two – three wide to outside the winner at the bell) held third 6 metres back. The mile rate 2-01.5.
■ At Bendigo, Andy and Kate Gath’s 3Y0 Skyvalley-Why Maori gelding Alrighty bred and raced by Bryan Healy of the great Maoris Idol fame, made it two from two this time in with a resounding 8.3 metre victory in the Sheahan Plumbing Trotters Mobile over 1650 metres.
Starting from gate two, Alrighty began fast with Desert Assassin (gate three) kicking up inside him to retain the lead. Immediately coming off the back of Desert Assassin to again take over with Tic Tok who after beginning swiftly from the extreme draw went forward to race exposed keeping Alrighty honest.
Kicking clear on the final bend, Alrighty defied all challengers to greet the judge from Kyvalleythoneybunny (one/two) and Bullapark Beno (one/one from the pole) who was 6.9 metres back with both placegetters giving chase from the home turn. The mile rate a slick 1-57.
■ Andy and Kate brought up a double when first starter Watts Up The Hill, a gelding by What The Hill from Watts Up Rainbow being a half brother to current star Watts Up Partytyime (Majestic Son) was ultra impressive when winning the Aldebaran Park 3Y0 Maiden Trotters Mobile over 2150 metres.
Bred and raced by Brad Watts, Watts Up The Hill began safely from gate two settling three pegs with Princess Du Fer (gate three) leading for Kerryn Manning and Jess Tubbs. Travelling beautifully throughout, Watts Up The Hill after angling three wide in the straight as Calders Revenge came away from behind the pacemaker to challenge, raced away to score by 9.9 metres over Princess Du Fer in a 2-03.5 mile rate. Calders Revenge was third a neck back.
■ Derrinal trainer/driver Glenn Bull snared the Impact-A Fasteners & Construction Supplies Pace over 1650 metres with 7Y0 Captaintreacherous-Vansumic gelding Treacheroustimes.
Trapped in the open from gate five as oldtimer Salsboy (13 yrs) led from gate four, Treacheroustimes gained cover at the bell when Playnice after a bad beginning from inside the second line was set alight to no avail by Alby Ashwood from the rear to challenge only to be left exposed giving Treacheroustimes cover. Despite the tough passage, Treacheroustimes kept on giving to defeat Sports Liner (one/two) and Kimchi along the sprint lane after trailing the weakening leader. The margins a half head by a half head in a mile rate of 1-58.2.
■ Three year old Franco Nelson-Iam In Front gelding Francs For Coming trained by Julie Douglas at Strathfieldsaye and driven by John Caldow having his second run in less than 24 hours (second at Shepparton) went one better by leading throughout in the Petersen Westbrook Cameron Lawyers Bendigo Maiden Pace. Bowling along from the pole with no challengers, Francs For Coming reached to judge 4.1 metres
Sulky Snippets Sulky Snippets
This Week
■ Monday – Warragul, Tuesday – Echuca, Wednesday – Horsham/Bendigo, Thursday – Ballarat, Friday – Mildura/Geelong, Saturday – Melton, Sunday – Cranbourne. ■ I am taking a break. My next column will appear in June 25 issue.
clear of Rollwitharty (gate two) along the sprint lane from one/one, with Denver Colorado after trailing the winner from inside the second line third after coming off his back on turning third a half head away. The mile rate 1-56.9.
Home bred winner
■ Ballarat was Thursday’s venue and local Ross Creek breeder/owner/trainer Stephen Clarke was successful with home bred 3Y0 Betting Line-Isabelle Delacour gelding Are Weasley in the 2200 metre De Re National 3Y0 and Older Maiden Pace.
Driven by son Connor who is shortly to take up a position in Queensland with former W-A trainer Michael Brennan, Are Weasley at start number 20 (3 placings) raced exposed from gate four outside the pacemaker Segui Le Stella which speared across from outside the front line. Giving plenty on turning, Are Weasley defied all challengers to score by 1.6 metres from American Victory (one/four from the extreme draw – three wide trail last lap) before being badly checked when Whiskydrinkingbill dropped back with a gear failure. Segui Le Stella held third 1.9 metres away. The mile rate 2-01.6.
■ Dunnstown trainer Rob McCartney was victorious in the Alfredton Laundry Pace over 1710 metres with handy 7Y0 Village Jolt-Bianca Jasper gelding Amphijet returning a mile rate of 155.7.
With Chris Alford in the sulky Amphijet led throughout from gate two and was never in any danger, greeting the judge by 6.6 metres from Little Blabbermouth (three pegs from inside the second line) which was clear on turning. Dougs Tribe (gate six – one four) ran on late for third 5.8 metres away.
■ Allendale trainer Adam Stephens added another winner to his great seasons tally as did reinsman Jordy Leedham when Home And Dry a 6Y0 A Rocknroll Dance-Triple Sec gelding Home And Dry (gate four) led throughout in the 2200 metre Black Horse Naturals Pace, accounting for Glenline (extreme draw - one/three –four wide home turn) and Lester (gate three) which followed the winner. The margins 1.7 by 2.5 metres in a mile rate of 2-01.2.
■ Horsham’s Aaron Dunn is always hard to hold out in any race he contests and Downbytheseaside-Park Life colt Eyeneedthat led throughout from gate three to land the Ballarat Vet Practice 2Y0 Maiden Pace over 1710 metres.
Partly owned, trained and driven by Aaron, Eyeneedthat was rated a treat to defeat Soho Washington which trailed by 1.4 metres in 156.7. First starter Famous Crimes (one/one from gate four) was third for Courtney Slater 5.5 metres back.
Friday victory
■ At Melton on Friday, very honest 6Y0 Skyvalley-Peters Passion gelding Villa Boy recorded his sixth victory in 45 outings when taking the 2Construct Trot Handicap over 2240 metres. \It was going to be a long way home on turning, however Villa Boy kept at the task running out a 2.6 metre victor over Champagne Charley (three pegs from barrier three after a bad beginning) which ran home late along the inside. You No Ill Be Late was a game third 3.7 metres back. The mile rate 2-03.4 in a final quarter of 30.9 seconds.
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BIKE. Ladies. Make: Friction Huffey. Purple. Plus helmet, basket and pump. VGC. $110. Pakenham. 5940 5018. R-U
BOAT. Aluminium. 3.8 motor. Evenrude motor. 6HP . Free winch and trailer and accessories. GC. $1000. Wandong. 0418 399 261. R-U
BRICKS. 100 clean, red. Plus halves. $50. Keon Park. 9469 4558.N-Q
BUILDER’S Electrical Pole, steel box and timber pole. GC. Free. Murrindindi. 0418 564 174. R-U
CAMPER TRAILER. Used once. Slide out kiychen plus extras. VGC. $4300. Dromana. 5981 4517. N-Q
FREE PHOTO ADS AdvertiseFree.com.au
CLARE Circulation 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
DOG KENNEL. Plastic. Grey colour. Very clean. never used as kennel. GC. $10. Purchaser to collect. Doreen. 9717 3465. N-Q
FOLDING BIKE. Suit adult. Everything works. Gears. GC. $120. Seymour. 0419 881 573. R-U
FORD AUII Fairport V8 Sedan. Original.Runs well. No rust. Good tyres, new screen, bring your mechanic or RACV test, RWC. Reg 7/27. 2AN3XE. VCG. $8000. Seymour. 0419 881 573. N-Q
GARDEN ROCKS. Approx. 200mm-150mm for landscaping. Approx. 260. Free. Nunawading, 0407 696 343. N-Q
GARDEN ROCKS. Small and medium. All sizes. All free. Also 12 blue stone pitches. All free. Bulleen. 9850 5128. N-Q
HORSE RUG. Tartan. Never used. VGC. $65. Macleod. 9459 6714. R-U
INVERTER-GENERATOR. 2200-watt. 91 octane 4-stroke petrol motor, single phase, 240 volts, 50 hertz output, little used. GC. $95. Doreen. 9717 3465. R-U
LAURA ASHLEY Cotton Queen Coverlet set. Size 220cm x 240cm, plus 2 pillowcases. Pale blue with thin white stripes. Never used. EC. $40. Ashburton. 9885 2203. R-U
MAGAZINES. Collectors. New Idea, Woman’s Day, Stellar, Body and Soul, House magazine and many others. GC. Price negotiable. West Preston. 0416 576 660. R-U
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
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.
PARTS for Ford AUIIV8. Secondhand. Struts. New parts: ball joints, 2 boxes of parts. VGC. $1000. Seymour 0419 881 573. N-Q
PICTURE FRAMES. 40 large to small. Various styles. VGC. All only $70. Keon Park. 9469 4558. N-Q
PORTABLE SAUNA. Top condition. $150. Alphington. 0401 226 114. F-M
PRAM. Old, child’s collectable. GC. $60. Wandong. 041`8 399 261. R-U
RIDE-ON Deutscher 280 Honda motor, runs fine, seal on shaft leaks, heaps of parts including new seat, new cutting plate, body part dismantled, everything is there. GC. $800. Yarck. 0414 718 812. R-U
SAWS. 5 vintage saws for woodwork. FC. $20. Also frame for manual sharpening, GC. $8. Ashburton. 9885 2203.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
SUBARU Rego Plates. B/ W Slimline: MISUBI.
TABLE. Large solid timber, dining room table, 2100mm x 1000mm. Plus six chairs. GC. $30. Yea. 0419 109 887. N-Q
TRAIN BOOKS. Wide variety of books and pamphlets to all types of trains. All prices negotiable. Re- search. 9437 1253. N-Q
TYRE CHANGERS. Manual. Little used, complete with instructions, purchaser to collect. GC. $90. Doreen. 9717 3465 N-Q
WALKERS. Two. One new, hardly used, $120. Second one: GC but some small marks. $80. Seymour. 0419 881 573. R-U
WELLNESS Circulation Stimulator. $20 or offer. VGC. Frankston. 9789 9634.F-M
WHEELCHAIR. Electric. Pride Go. Mobility chair. Only moths old. Paid $3700. Will sell $1800 ONO. Like brand new. Rosanna. 0418 583 120. R-U
WHEELCHAIR. Electric. Hubang HBLD2-B. Light- weight, easy to manoeu- ver, strong battery life. Per- fect for everyday use. 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
WINDOW. Aluminium. 1600mm x 1600mm with windout window. GC. Free. Murrindindi. 0418 564 174. R-U
WOOD
twice.
and hot
carry bag.
lifting
ofready cut fire lighters. Heavy duty grate and 45 quart camp oven. VGC. $3000. Montmorency. 0483 881 609. R-U
PUBLIC NOTICES
GOD’S CHURCH invites faithful followwees of Christ to attend the New Testament local Passover night service. Alfredton, Ballarat. To secure your seat, 0419 327 366. N-P
CARAVAN. E20½ ft reegal 2009 Aussie Tourer Caravan. Full ensuite with separate shower, queen bed and AC/heater, TV, stereo, gas cooktop, microwave, comes with cover and large outdoor mat. EC. $32,000. Taggerty. 0438 782 112. R-U
MOBILITY SCOOTER. Pre-owned. Sill under warranty with new batteries. Features headlights and tail lights, swivel seat, rear shopping bag, includes key and charger. max user 136kg, 35km range per cahrge. Free delivery. VGC. $1295. Moorabbin. 0401 980 969. R-U
TABLE. Round. Polished timber. 100cm diameter. Seats 4. VGC. $90. Mill Park. 9436 8935. N-Q
TELESCOPE. 76/700EG. Premium. 76 mirror diameter. 700mm focal length. 28x-233x magnification. Equatoirial mount. As new. $60 ONO. Cheltenham. 0438 533 123.F-M
ANY or all amounts of used stamps to assist needy charities and world missions. Aust. and overseas used stamps. Keen collec- tor. Genuine. Top prices paid. Victoria wide. Ararat.
CHAINS
GARDENER’S DAY OUT. Royal Horticultural Society Victoria. 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
CARE Support Worker. Part-time. Needed to provide supervision and companionship to 78yo lady in home. Full day Monday and Wednesday, and Thurs. afternoon. Hourly rate as per market, nego- tiable. Yea. 0438 652 784.N-Q
BANK Money Boxes. GC. Negotiable. Mill Park. 9436 8935. H-O
Bible College Australia; In depth Bible study and online Biblical studies. 0447 515 450 N-Q
FIRE STOVE HEATER. Ozpig Traveller. Used
Comes with grill
plate,
handle,
heaps
