MACHETE TERROR AT CAROLINE SPRINGS
Lockdown as teens go on the attack
■ Friday night shopping (June 6) turned violent at CS Square at Caroline Springs as youths attacked each other with machetes.
Frightened shopkeepers closed their stores as the youths ran through the centre, close to shocked shoppers.
The armed male teens boys armed with machetes threw CS Square into lockdown, just weeks after a similar incident ast Northland.
Victoria Police said five to six armed males were ar guing with each other inside CS Square about 6.40pm on Friday.
The centre was placed under lockdown until Police arrived.
The group fled the scene and remains on the run. No injuries were reported.
“Police are continuing to investigate and urge witnesses or anyone with video to contact Crime Stoppers,” said a Nine News report.
A fortnight ago, a premeditated fight between rival gangs armed with machetes sent the Northland Shopping Centre in Preston into lockdown.
This was followed by Premier Jacinta Allan’s call for machete sales to be immediately banned.
Youths attacked each other with machetes at CS Square, Caroline Springs.
KING’S BIRTHDAY
HONOURS
LIST
■ King’s Birthday honours have been announced:
Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division
■ Distinguished Professor Vasso Apostolopoulos, Point Cook. For significant service to medical research, particularly immunology.
■ Distinguished Professor Markham John Rose, Coburg. For significant service to Indigenous tertiary education, and to community health.
■ Dr Ross Gordon Wilkinson, Brunswick West. For significant service to data infrastructure management.
Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division
■ Ms Faye Lorraine Campbell, Pascoe Vale South. For service to basketball administration.
■ Mr Barry Ernest Capuano, Ascot Vale. For service to Australian rules football.
■ Ms Jane Frances Crawley, Newport. For service to the arts and cultural equity.
■ Mr Peter John Crocker, Strathmore. For service to industrial relations, particularly through trade unions.
■ Mr Bill Forrest, Princes Hill. For service to urban planning, the arts, and to the community.
■ Mrs Joyce Lorraine Knight, Pascoe Vale. For service to veterans and their families.
■ Mr John Lawrence O'Sullivan, Keilor East. For service to veterans and their families.
■ Mr Walter Villagonzalo, Hoppers Crossing. For service to the community of Wyndham.
Scoop on cone theft from shop
■ Police have arrested a man after two large plastic ice cream cones were allegedly stolen from a general store in East Melbourne. It is alleged the 1970s cones were stolen from the front of the store about 2am on Hotham St on Sundae, May 25. Officers executed a search warrant at an address in Lower Templestowe. A 50-year-old man was arrested and interviewed in relation to the theft. The signs were located at a Gisborne address and will be returned to the store.
Town house fire
■ FRV firefighters were called to Brookes Crescent in Fitzroy North on Sunday night, June 1,following a town house fire.
Crews arrived on scene to find the twostorey property in flames with concerns about one resident,unaccounted.
The blaze had spread from the ground floor into the second storey rooms and roof space. Crews managed to get the incident under control just after 12.30am.
The home was significantly damaged in the incident but luckily, no one was inside. Victoria Police also attended.
ORGANISED CRIME BUST
■ Detectives from Taskforce Lunar have charged a man as part of their investigation into alleged extortions of tobacco stores linked to a Middle Eastern organised crime syndicate.
An 18-year-old man was arrested at a Keilor East residential address.
He hwas charged with non-prohibited person possess Category A firearm, possess ammunition, traffick/possess cannabis and fail to provide information for data warrant.
Police seized a sawn off bolt action rifle, approximately 3kg of cannabis, an assortment of ammunition and a 2011 Volkswagen Golf from his address.
He was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on August 4.
Taskforce Lunar executed 12 search warrants across Melbourne’s northern suburbs on March 17, charging 14 people, including an 18year-old Essendon man who was charged with extortion.
Investigators reviewed CCTV seized from his address, locating vision where an 18-yearold Keilor East man is allegedly directed to collect extortion payments from tobacco stores in early March.
The investigation remains ongoing.
COPPER THEFT DUO BUSTED
■ Two men have been arrested following a theft in Broadmeadows on June 1.
It is alleged a perimeter fence was damaged and entry gained to the grounds of an industrial warehouse on Riggall St about 3.40am.
A large quantity of copper piping and wiring was allegedly stolen and loaded into a Kia Carnival before the pair allegedly drove away.
Police Air Wing monitored the vehicle as it drove through Mernda streets before police on the ground successfully deployed stop sticks on Epping Rd
The Kia came to a stop on Waterwheel Grove where the men were arrested without incident by the Dog Squad and general duties members.
A 50-year-old Doreen has been charged with theft, handle stolen goods, going equipped to steal, deal with property suspected of being proceeds of crime and trespass.
He was bailed to appear at Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court on September 30.
A 35-year-old Doreen man has been charged with theft, handle stolen goods, going equipped to Steal, trespass, deal with property suspected of being proceeds of crime, reckless conduct endangering serious injury and unlicenced driving.
He was bailed to appear at Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court on September 30.
Winter Festival
■ The award-winning Hume Winter Lights Festival returns on Saturday June 21 with an immersive winter experience at Town Hall Broadmeadows Precinct from 6pm –10pm. This year’s festival returns live music, three interactive art shows, seven light projections, roving performances including sway poles, and 20 food + drink trucks.
■ Westgate Highway Patrol officers are appealing for public assistance following an nine-vehicle collision on the Princes Hwy at Laverton North on Monday (June 2).
Police were called to reports of the collision, near the Kororoit Creek Rd exit, involving one truck and eight cars about 6am.
While several vehicles sustained significant damage there have fortunately been no reports of serious injuries.
Investigators are working to understand the exact circumstances surrounding the collision.
There were a substantial number of vehicles in the vicinity of the collision and police are particularly keen to speak with witnesses and those with dashcam footage.
40 YEARS AS NEWSMAN IN MELBOURNE’S NORTH-WEST
In 1983, Ash Long was Editor of the Bacchus Marsh-Melton Express newspaper.
In earlier years, he had been Manager of a number of local newspapers including the Brunswick Sentinel and Coburg Courier.
Later, he was approached to be Editor of the Western News, and he also was in charge of the Advertiser and News-Pix Weekender titles.
Ash Long has wide knowledge of the people in the North-West.
Some 40 years on, in 2024, Ash Long continues his lifetime of community service, as Publisher of The Local Paper group, which has localised newspapers across 40 local government areas covering all Melbourne suburbs, the Mornington Peninsula and beyond.
He was involved with the Australian Suburban Newspapers’ Association, later becoming a National Judge.
In 1983, he branched out on his own, developing newspapers across Victoria.
In the intervening years, there have been successes (and a few stumbles!)
In 2002, Long reinvograted the
Barry Browne and Ash Long at the Bacchus Marsh-Melton Express in 1983. Melbourne Observer newspaper. It continues today as a free section within all editions of The Local Paper. There have been other involvements with TV, radio and online projects. Decades on, Ash Long and his Local Paper team remain committed to providing the best possible service to readers and clients.
●
● ● Police recovered the signs
● ● ● ● Police Air Wing. File Image.
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.
The Local Paper
in localised
Moonee Valley Gazette
• Maribyrnong Edition
• Hobsons Bay Edition
• Brimbank Messenger
• Werribee Express
• Bacchus Marsh Examiner
• Sunbury Regional News
• Western News
CONTACT US
Phone: 1800 231 311, 9489 2222, 9439 9927, 0450 399 932, 5797 2656. Reg. Office: 30 Glen Gully Rd, Eltham, Vic 3095 (same address for 31 years)
Mail: PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095
Web: www.LocalPaper.com.au
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
www.LocalMedia.com.au
E-Mail: Editor@LocalPaper.com.au
Editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au
Editor@LocalMedia.com.au
Fraudster goes to jail
■ A transgender woman on a community corrections order for dishonesty offence rorted the Federal and State Governments out of nearly $130,000 to fund gender treatment.
Paolo Esmaquel was sentenced last week in the County Court for three categories of offending against Government at both Federal and State levels.
The offences were tax fraud, identity and counterfeiting fraud, and social security fraud.
She has been sentenced to 18 months of imprisonment for that offending.
She is presently serving jail time previously imposed for similar federal offences in November last year.
The Australian Taxation Office worked collaboratively with other partner agencies across Government to hold the offender to account.
Between October and November 2021, Paolo Esmaquel dishonestly obtained $51,464 and attempted to claim a further $12,093 by lodging 10 fraudulent business activity statements using the identities of three victims.
he supplied false information to the Tax Practitioners Board to register as a tax agent, gaining access to ATO systems and linking unsuspecting taxpayers to her profile without their consent.
Broadmeadows Court
Long Shots
multiple documents in other individuals’ names including bank cards, drivers licenses and birth certificates.
She was also found to have a mobile phone that contained email accounts and other identity documents that weren’t in her name.
Acting Deputy Commissioner and Serious Financial Crime Taskforce
Chief Kath Anderson welcomed the outcome under Operation Falchion which spotlights the reality of identity fraud, and how serious the ATO is about putting a stop to it.
“This case shows how far criminals will go to commit identity fraud and exploit the tax and super system, and broader commonwealth and state programs.
“With a rise in scammers and cyber criminals out in the community, it’s more important than ever to protect your personal identifying information,” Ms Anderson said.
Scammers and cyber criminals can use personal information to access details and commit fraud in the name of others.
“We have strengthened our systems against fraud and financial crime through prevention, early detection, containment and consequences, such as the jail time Ms Esmaquel received,” Ms Anderson said.
Published in localised editions in 40 areas across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and some country areas.
BRIMBANK
Incorporating the traditions of the Brimbank Messenger (Est. 1956). Brimbank comprises Albanvale, Albion, Ardeer, Brooklyn (part), Cairnlea, Calder Park, Deer Park, Delahey, Derrimut, Hillside (part), Kealba, Keilor (part), Keilor Downs, Keilor East (part), Keilor Lodge, Keilor North, Keilor Park, Kings Park, St Albans, Sunshine, Sunshine North, Sunshine West, Sydenham, Taylors Lakes and Tullamarine (part). Brimbank is home to more than 194,319 people, living in approximately 69,275 homes.
HOBSONS BAY
Hobsons Bay comprises Altona, Altona Meadows, Altona North, Brooklyn, Laverton, Newport, Seabrook, Seaholme, South Kingsville, Spotswood, Williamstown and Williamstown North. Hobsons Bay is home to more than 88,788 people, living in approximately 37,183 homes.
HUME
Incorporating the traditions of the Hume Observer (Est. 1956). Hume comprises Attwood, Broadmeadows, Bulla, Campbellfield, Clarkefield (part), Coolaroo, Craigieburn, Dallas, Diggers Rest (part), Fawkner (part), Gladstone Park, Greenvale, Jacana, Kalkallo, Keilor (part), Meadow Heights, Melbourne Airport, Mickleham, Oaklands Junction, Roxburgh Park, Somerton, Sunbury, Tullamarine (part), Westmeadows, Wildwood and Yuroke. Hume is home to more than 197,376 people, living in approximately 67,399 homes.
MARIBYRNONG
Maribyrnong comprises Braybrook, Footscray, Kingsville, Maidstone, Maribyrnong, Seddon, Tottenham, West Footscray and Yarraville. Maribyrnong is home to more than 82,288 people, living in approximately 35,757 homes.
MELTON
Melton comprises Aintree, Bonnie Brook, Brookfield, Burnside, Burnside Heights, Caroline Springs, Cobblebank, Deanside, Diggers Rest, Exford, Eynesbury, Fieldstone, Fraser Rise, Grangefields, Harkness, Hillside, Kurunjang, Melton, Melton South, Melton West, Mount Cottrell, Parwan, Plumpton, Ravenhall, Rockbank, Strathtulloh, Taylors Hill, Thornhill Park, Toolern Vale, Truganina, Weir Views. Melton is home to more than 193,1557 people, living in approximately 60,363 homes.
MERRI-BEK
Incorporating the traditions of the Brunswick Sentinel (Est. 1936) and Coburg Courier (Est,. 1932) Merri-bek comprises Brunswick, Brunswick East, Brunswick West, Coburg, Coburg North, Fawkner, Glenroy, Gowanbrae, Hadfield, Oak Park, Pascoe Vale, and Pascoe Vale South. Merri-bek is home to more than 184,707 people, living in approximately 70,709 homes.
Bissett-Johnson, Cartoonist Peter Kemp, Art
Editor: Ash Long
Rob Foenander, Music
Features Editor: Peter Mac
Columnists: Len Baker, Matt Bissett-Johnson, Rob Foenander, Peter Kemp, Aaron Rourke, Ted Ryan, Cheryl Threadgold, Julie Houghton, Kevin Trask, John O’Keefe
Honorary Reviewers: Juliet Charles, Sherryn Danaher, Lyn Hurst, Kathryn Keeble, Beth Klein, Graeme McCoubrie, David McLean, Maggie Morrison, Peter Murphy, Lucy Nicolson, Jill Page, Elizabeth Semmel
Logistics: Tyler Sandiford, Tim Granvillani, Erica Koldinsky
Credit Manager: Michael Conway OAM, Fast Action Debt Recovery, 0402 142 866
The ATO executed a search warrant with the assistance of Australian Federal Police, which revealed Ms Esmaquel possessed
The ATO also worked with the TPB, leading to the cancellation of the tax agent registration obtained by Ms Esmaquel in a victim’s name.
Local Photo Flashback
MOONEE VALLEY
Incorporating the traditions of the Moonee Valley Gazette (Est. 1888) Moonee Valley comprises Aberfeldie, Airport West, Avondale Heights, Ascot Vale, Essendon, Essendon Fields, Essendon North, Essendon West, Flemington, Keilor East, Moonee Ponds, Niddrie, Strathmore, Strathmore Heights and Travancore. Moonee Valley is home to more than 129,739 people, living in approximately 48,000 homes.
MOORABOOL
Moorabool comprises Bacchus Marsh, Ballan, Balliang, Balliang East, Barkstead, Blackwood, Bungaree, Clarendon, Dales Creek, Dunnstown, Elaine, Gordon, Greendale, Korweinguboora, Lal Lal, Mount Egerton, Myrniong, Wallace and Yendon.. Moorabool is home to more than 38,506 people, living in approximately 15,469 homes.
WYNDHAM
Incorporating the traditions of the Werribee Express (Est. 1896) Wyndham comprises Cocoroc, Eynesbury (part), Hoppers Crossing, Laverton (part), Laverton North, Little River (part), Mambourin, Mount Cottrell (part), Point Cook, Quandong, Tarneit, Truganina (part), Werribee, Werribee South, Williams Landing and Wyndham Vale. Wyndham is home to more than 309,125 people, living in approximately 100,366 homes.
● ● Paolo Esmaquel previously appeared at
Cheryl Threadgold, Local Theatre
Julie Houghton, The Arts Kevin Trask, Entertainment Aaron Rourke, Film Ted Ryan, Horse Racing Len Baker, Harness Racing Matt
Observer Melbourne
Visit to Airport Museum Visit to Airport Museum
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 not just aircraft and engines, but 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
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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.
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
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
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.
Mess Hall
● ● ● ● 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
■ 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.
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
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
Observer
Lovatts Crossword No 4
Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer
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
■
Where
Court Lists
Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings
Truganina fatality
■
■
■ ALTONA. Altona Newsagency. Pier St.
■ ■ ALTONA. Club Altona. 113 Civic Pde.
■
■ ALTONA. IGA Supermarket. 103110 Pier St.
■
■ ALTONA. Liberty Service Station. Cnr Millers Rd and Civic Pde.
■
■ ALTONA. Thirsty Camel Licensed Grocers/Savvy Cellars. 49 Civic Pde.
■ KEILOR. Coles Express. 664-668 Old Calder Hwy..
■ KEILOR. Keilor Post Office/Newsagency. 100 Old Calder Hwy.
■ KEILOR. Keilor Village Convenience Store. 686 Old Calder Hwy.
■ KENSINGTON. Coles Express. 291-301 Smithfield Rd.
■ KENSINGTON. Foodworks. 484 Macaulay Rd.
Wednesday, June 11
■
■
■
■ ALTONA NORTH. 7-Eleven. Cnr
■
Koroit Creek Rd and Millers Rd.
■
■ ASCOT VALE. 7-Eleven. Cnr Maribyrnong Rd and Epsom Rd.
■ ■ ASCOT VALE. Ascot Vale Lotteries and Cards. 187 Union Rd.
■ ■ ASCOT VALE. IGA Express. 124
Maribyrnong Rd.
■
■ KENSINGTON. Local Folk Coffee Shop. Cnr Epsom Rd and Bayswater Rd.
■
■ KINGSVILLE. BP Service Station. 88-94 Williamstown Rd.
■ MAIDSTONE. The Palms. Cnr Rosamond Rd and Ballarat Rd.
■
■
■ BROADMEADOWS. City of Hume Offices. Cnr Tanderum Way and Pascoe Vale Rd.
■
■ BRUNSWICK. 7-Eleven. Cnr Sydney Rd and Park St.
■ MARIBYRNONG. 7-Eleven. 32 Raleigh Rd.
■ MARIBYRNONG. United Service Station. 31 Raleigh Rd.
■ MOONEE PONDS. Moonee Ponds Newsagency. 45 Puckle St
■
Contents of Court Lists are intended for information purposes only. The lists are extracted from Court Lists, as supplied to the public, by the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria, often one week prior to publication date; for current Court lists, please contact the Court. Further details of cases are available at www.magistratescourt.vic.gov.au The Local Paper shall in no event accept any liability for loss or damage suffered by any person or body due to information provided. The information is provided on the basis that persons accessing it undertake responsibility for assessing the relevance and accuracy of its content. No inference of a party’s guilt, innocence or liability should be made by publication of their name as a defendant. Court schedules may be changed at any time for any reason, including withdrawal of the action by the Plaintiff/Applicant. E&OE.
■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man following a fatal crash in Truganina on Wednesday morning, June 4.
Emergency services responded to reports that a car had crashed into an unoccupied parked vehicle on Dunmore Drive about 1am.
The passenger of the car, a 24-year-old St Albans woman, died at the scene.
The driver, a 23-year-old Caroline Springs man, was taken to hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries.
He was charged with dangerous driving causing death and careless driving.
He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Saturday (June 7).
■ ■ BRUNSWICK. Brunswick Club.
■
■
203 Sydney Rd.
■
■
■
■ BRUNSWICK. Tatts. 396 Sydney Rd.
■ ■ BRUNSWICK. Continental Grocers Supermarket. 482 Sydney Rd.
■
■
■ ■ BRUNSWICK. Gervasi Foodworks. 870-872 Sydney Rd.
■ ■ BRUNSWICK. Tatts/Newsagency/ Post Office. 650 Sydney Rd.
■ ■ BULLA. BP. 82-84 Bulla Rd.
■ ■ CAMPBELLFIELD. Caltex. 18021808 Hume Hwy.
■ ■ COBURG. Caltex. 265-267 Sydney Rd.
■ ■ COBURG. Coburg Hub Lotto,. 8/
430 Sydney Rd.
■
■ ■ ■ CRAIGIEBURN. 7-Eleven. Cnr Craigieburn Rd and Dorchester St.
■
■
■ ■ CRAIGIEBURN. Caltex. Craigieburn Plaza Shopping Centre. Craigieburn Rd.
■
■ ■ ■ CRAIGIEBURN. Coles Express. Craigieburn Plaza Shopping Centre. Craigieburn Rd.
■ ■ CRAIGIEBURN. Direct Chemist/ Lotto. Craigieburn Plaza Shopping Centre. Craigieburn Rd.
■
■ DEER PARK. BP . Cnr Robinsons Rd and Ballarat Rd.
■ ■ DEER PARK. Deer Park Club.
780 Ballarat Rd.
■ MORELAND. Tatts/News. 877 Sydney Rd.
■ NEWPORT. 7-Eleven. 438 Melbourne Rd.
■ NEWPORT. Friendly Grocer. 3/4 Hall St.
■ NEWPORT. Newport N ewsagency. 6 Hall St.
■ NIDDRIE. 7-Eleven. Cnr Keilor Rd and Hoffmans Rd
■ NIDDRIE. Caltex. Cnr Keilor dRd and Deakin St.
■ NIDDRIE. The Lott. 358 Keilor Rd.
■
■ NORTH CARLTON. North Carlton Newsagency. 711 Nicholson St.
■
■ ■ NORTH SUNSHINE. BP. `139 McIntyre Rd.
■
■ NORTH SUNSHINE. Newsagency/ Tatts/Post Office. 69 McIntyre Rd
■
■ NORTH SUNSHINE. United Service Station. 45 McIntyre Rd.
■
■ NORTH WILLIAMSTOWN. 7Eleven. Cnr Koroit Creek Rd and Champion Rd.
■ OAK PARK. Oak Park Cellars, 95 Snell Gr.
■ OAK PARK. Oak Park Newsagency/ Lotto. 120 Snell Gr.
■ PASCOE VALE. 7-Eleven. Cnr Stewart St and Pascoe Vale Rd.
■ PASCOE VALE. Pascoe Vale Central Tatts. 76 Cumberland Rd.
■
■
■ ■ DEER PARK. Deer Park Hotel.
760 Ballarat Rd.
■ ■ DEER PARK. United Service Station. Near Cnr 810 Ballarat Rd and Station Rd.
■
■ ■ ■ DERRIMUT. United Service Station. Cnr Robinsons Rd and 2 Foley Rd.
■
■ PASCOE VALE. Pascoe Vale RSL. Cnr Cumberland Rd and O’Hea St.
■ PASCOE VALE SOUTH. 7-Eleven. 477 Bell St.
■
■ PASCOE VALE SOUTH. BP. Cnr Bell St and Ross St.
■ PASCOE VALE SOUTH. Caltex. Cnr Bell St and Cumberland Rd,
■
■
■ EAST BRUNSWICK. Coles Express. Cnr 54 Holmes St and Donald St.
■ ■ EAST COBURG. 7-Eleven. Cnr Bell St and Elizabeth St.
■ ■ ■ ■ ESSENDON. 7-Eleven. Cnr 1 Napier St and Mt Alexander Rd.
■ ■ ESSENDON. 7-Eleven. Cnr Mt Alexander Rd and Buckley St.
■ ■ ESSENDON. Coles Express. 783795 Mt Alexander Rd.
■ ■ ESSENDON. Essendon Roundabout Newsagency. 85 Fletcher St.
■
■ FAWKNER. Fawkner Newsagency. 54 Bonwick St.
■ ■ FAWKNER. Moomba Park Newsagency. 89 Anderson Rd.
■ ■ ■ ■ FITZROY. United Service Station. Cnr Nicholson St and St Georges Rd.
■ ■ PASCOE VALE SOUTH. Coles Express. Cnr Bell St and Sussex St.
■ ■ PASCOE VALE SOUTH. Pascoe Vale South Post Office/NewsXPress. 372-380 Bell St.
■ PRINCES HILL. North Carlton Convienece Store. 577 Lygon St.
■ ROXBURGH PARK. 7-Eleven. Cnr Bridgewater Rd and James Miram Dr.
■
■ ■ ROXBURGH PARK. Foodworks. Cnr Donald Cameron Dr and Roxburgh Park Dr.
■
■ ROXBURGH PARK. United Service Station. 124-130 Somerton Rd.
■ SOMERTON. Caltex. Cnr Somerton Rd and Hume Hwy.
■
■ SPOTSWOOD. Coles Express. Cnr The Avenue and Williamstown Rd.
■ ■ STRATHMORE. Strathmore Cellars. 305 Napier St.
Akdogan, Hakan Al Janabi, Hayder Ali, Mustaf Abdirasheid Ali, Mustafa Alshramtah, Mohammed Hashim Anastasiou, Michael Peter Angelucci, Adam Arceri, Michael Ashfak, Shadeed Austin, Jacinta Janelle Aykac, Suleyman Ayoub, Tony Barnes, Harley Barnes, Neil Barrett, Christopher Beale, Mary Bhangoo, Vineet Singh Blood, Hayley Jade Bogeski, Viktor Bond, Zaccharus Boundy, Joel Bourke, Aaron William Bowyer, Geoffrey Brandt, Janine Brigham, Hayley Bromley, Jace Thomas Bryant, Michael Charlton, Matthew Cousins, Jake Decarne, Jason Dennison, Megan Douglas, Christopher Douglas, Daniel Dunkinson, Brodie Edwards-Thorpe, Wayen Efthimiadis, George Elrajab, Michael Evans, Clint Fakhreddin, Mohammad Faour, Adem Flinn, Rory Fraser, Samuel William Fresh Centre Unloading Service Pty Ltd Ghasemipoor, Soheil Gosling, Lachlan Griffiths, Harry Habboushi, Mohammed Hallett, Shae Maree Halligan, Dyllan Henderson, Matthew Hexter, Rodney Hives, Rachel Hoppner, Travis Hunt, Eden Ilsley, Janine Lesley Jakobi, Nicholas Oswald Johnson, Leonie Khalaf, Anas Krell, Jay Laktso, Tanzin Lean, Robin Lee, Jeong Ho Lee, Toby Frederick Lewis, Martin Longordo, Patrick Michael Lovett, Richard John Lydiate, Michael Mackrill, John
Knife seizures
■
■
■ ■ FITZROY. Metro Service Station. Cnr Nicholson St and Alexandra Pde.
■ ■ FLEMINGTON. Foodwoorks. 306 Racecourse Rd.
■ ■ FOOTSCRAY. Footscray Newsagency. Cnr Droop St and Nicholson St.
■
■ GLADSTONE PARK. Coles Express. 175-193 Mickleham Rd.
■ ■ GLADSTONE PARK. Coles Exp[ress. 210-212 Mickleham Rd.
■ ■ GLENBERVIE. Milk Bar. Cnr Glass St and Npaier St.
■ STRATHMORE. Strathmore Post/ News. 311 Napier St.
■ STRATHMORE. Strathmore Village Milk Bar. 287 Napier St.
■ STRATHMORE. Woodfield Cellars. 9 Woodland St.
■
■ ■ SUNBURY. Sunbury Newsagency. 14 Brook St.
■ SUNSHINE. 7-Eleven. Cnr Ballarat Rd and Hampshire Rd.
■ TULLAMARINE. 7-Eleven. 182 Melrose Drive.
■ TULLAMARINE. 7-Eleven. Cnr
■ Victoria Police is on track to remove a record number of illegal blades, machetes, and zombie knives from the community this year, with an average of 44 taken off the streets every day.
■ Footscray police are appealing for information after a $70,000 caravan was stolen in Braybrook
Investigators have been told the Heritage Spaceland caravan was being stored on a Ashley St property.
A Hino truck, complete with crane, tray and ramp, drove onto the property about 4am on April4.
The caravan was hooked up to the truck and driven off the property.
It had been used by its owner until his recent death and contained personal belongings which are of importance to his remaining family.
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
Murder charge
■ Homicide Squad detectives have charged a 42-year-old man following the death of another man in Glenroy
The Glenroy man was taken into custody by Fugitive Squad detectives at a hotel on King St in the CBD around 12.30pm last Wednesday (June 4).
He was charged with one count of murder and was to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.
The charge follows the discovery a man’s body in a Bindi St property around 3pm on Sunday, May 25.
■
■
■
■
■ GLENROY. Caltex. Cnr Pascoe
Vale Rd and Finchley St.
■ ■ GLENROY. Coles Express. Cnr Pascoe Vale Rd and 213 Glenroy Rd.
Melrose Dr and Mickleham Rd.
■ TULLAMARINE. Milk Bar. 193 Melrose Drive.
■
Police have seized 6876 edged weapons in 2025, with around three quarters of these knives seized from metropolitan Melbourne
■
■ GLENROY. Metro Service Station.
770-774 Pascoe Vale Rd.
■ ■ GLENROY. Tatts. 773 Pascoe
Vale Rd.
■ ■ TULLAMARINE. Tullamarine Newsagency. 191 Melrose Drive.
■ WILLIAMSTOWN. Metro Fuel. Cnr Williamstown Rd and Lyons St.
The 67-year-old Shepparton North man had been fatally assaulted.
It is alleged an altercation took place at the address earlier that morning and the parties involved were known to each other.
■
■
■ ■ GREENVALE. Caltex. Cnr
Mickleham Rd and Greenvale Dr
■ ■ KEALBA. Caltex. Cnr Sunshine
■
■
Ave and Main Road East.
■ ■ KEALBA. Coles Express. 100 Sunshine Ave.
■ WILLIAMSTOWN. The Lott. 35 Ferguson St.
■ YARRAVILLE. 7-Eleven. Cnr
Williamstown Rd and Somerville Rd.
■ ■ YARRAVILLE. The Lott. Cnr
Williamstown Rd and Somerville Rd.
This is on pace to surpass last year’s record when Victoria Police seized 14,805 edged weapons – an average of 40 per day.
Victoria Police has been steadily finding and destroying more knives each year, with a 31 per cent increase since 2015.
Marino, Constantino Martin, Jessia Maslen, Ben Joseph Mckay, Darcy Miles, Lauren Milesi, Lyndelle Mills, Aaron Mircevski, Sash Mohamed, Salim Moran, Michael Thomas Mucaj, Georgia Nakas, Brandon Natsis, Michael Nguyen, Keeyon Nicholson, Vanessa Nouri, Ahmad Parsafar, Hojjat Patterson, Ryan Pattison, Catherine Pearson, Wil Geoffrey Pernasilici, Tony Quinn, Justin Rehman, Zohaib Rob, Kylie Ross, Christian Rushton, Oliver Ryan, Brodie Renee Sacco, Daniel Saeed, Iyad Sartorello, Michael Saunders, Kylie Scott, Shaun Geoffery Sellitti, Frank Singh, Yuvraj Singh-Aulakh, Jagatjeet Smith, Adrian Smith, Corey Stefani, Justin Stojcevski, Nicholas Taylor, David Thatcher-Brener, Jozeph Tigani, Renzo Tsorbaris, Oliver Ulutui, Moana Villiers, Tim Vo, Tuyen Thi Vucinic, Richard Waites, Levi Walton, Salman Wijayathunga, Don Devendu Wijewickrama, Deekirikewage Nilanga Wilson, Natalie Woollard, Carly Workman, Melinda Wright, Neil Wu, Zhi-Sheng Yao, Weixu Yeoman, Patrick Zahraman, Ahmed Werribee Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, June 11 Beasley, Carlos Bhardwaj, Rajat Bo Merhi, Ammar Camilleri, Chad Datuin, Neilson Plandiano Dunlop, Wayne Anthony Gray-Shields, Ryan Harris, Phillip Gordon Hornjak, Adam Humberstone, Chantal Khan, Eshal Mcdougall, Thomas Meyer, Rowan Narang, Yash Nicholas, Bryce Sharma, Vineet Singh, Tajinder Tzoumanis, Christopher
Detectives from the Homicide Squad and Fugitive Squad conducted a significant search over the past 10 days in an attempt to locate the man.
Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Victoria Pictorial
Historic Photo Collection
● ● The Weir, Lower Side, Yarrawonga. 1950
● ● St Andrew’s Kirk, Ballarat
● Entrance to ‘The Chalet’, Warburton. 1940.
● ● The main road, Olinda. 1945. ● ● View at Mt Dandenong, 1925.
●
The Great Ocean Road, Wye River
Near ‘Elephant Rock’, Flinders. 1921.
● ● Steam Tram. Back Beach, Sorrento. 1914.
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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PUBLIC NOTICES
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Within 1.8 km of a train station 2–3 bedrooms House, townhouse, or unit with some outdoor space preferred Budget: Up to $680,000 If you're thinking about selling—or know someone who is—I’d love to talk!
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ARBOR FRUIT
All types of fruit trees. 40 yrs. Exp. Citrus and Olive tree specialist Espalier Expert. rankineaecos@ gmail.com Call: John Rankine. 0415 927 342
BED. Single. Electric folable with massage and remote control. Adjustable back, legs and height. New Aspire mattress. German motor. EC. $500. Diamond Creek. 0401 473 565.N-Q
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
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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
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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.
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
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cut fire lighters. Heavy duty grate and 45 quart camp oven. VGC. $3000. Montmorency. 0483 881 609. R-U
PUBLIC NOTICES
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
PARTS for Ford AUIIV8. Secondhand. Struts. New parts: ball joints, 2 boxes of parts. VGC. $1000. Seymour 0419 881 573. N-Q FORD AUII Fairport V8 Sedan. Original.Runs well. No rust. Good tyres, new screen, bring your mechanic or RACV test, RWC. Reg 7/27. 2AN3XE. VCG. $8000. Seymour. 0419 881 573. N-Q
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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
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
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.
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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
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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
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
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.
GARDENER’S DAY OUT.
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
CHAINS Bible College Australia; In depth Bible study and online Biblical studies. 0447 515 450 N-Q
WOOD FIRE STOVE HEATER. Ozpig Traveller. Used twice. Comes with grill
hot plate, lifting handle,
bag. heaps ofready
Business Guide
It Pays To Advertise Your Business
including:
■ North. Banyule, Darebin, Nillumbik (urban), Whittlesea (urban).
■ South. Bayside, Boroondara (south), Glen Eira, Kingston, Melbourne, Port Phillip, Stonnington, Yarra.
■ East. Boroondara (north), KnoxSherbrooke, Manningham, Maroondah, Monash, Whitehorse.
■ West. Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Hume, Maribyrnong, Melton, Merri-bek, Moonee Valley, Moorabool, Wyndham.
■ South-East. Cardinia, Casey, Frankston, Greater Dandenong, Mornington Peninsula (inc. Southern Peninsula and Western Port).
■ Regional. Mansfield, Mitchell, Murrindindi, Nillumbik (rural), Strathbogie, Whittlesea (rural), Yarra Ranges.
