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● Quotes from Bundoora MLA Colin Brooks about the Greemsnorough 17-storey tower are under question.
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■ A document sent by Bundoora MLA Colin Brooks appears to show inconsistencies in his view towards the Greensborough 17-storey tower approved by Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny. In an interview with The Borough e-newsletter, Mr Brooks sa id he had been blindsided by the approval of the Main St development. Mr Brooks said neither the community nor he, as the local member, had been consulted before the State Government approved the 106–126 Main St development.
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“There should have been consultation with the community with that decision,” he said. “There should have been consultation with me as local member. “So we all found out
about that after it was approved, which is not acceptable.” The interview was published by The Borough’s journalist Peter Bannan on October 25. Ms Kilkenny approved the 17-storey development on May 13, 2025. In a letter to a constituent, on July 4, 2025, Mr Brooks said: “I’ve had several people contact me about this development and it is heartening that while people have a range of views on the height of the apartment building, there is a strong sense of support for more affordable and social housing. “Two community housing providers have been selected to provide much needed social and afford able housing at this development, ensuring that families can continue to be close to schools, services
and employment opportunities, whilst being supported with safe and secure housing.
Supportive
“I have lived in Greensborough for the last 25 years and accept that this development is much higher than the existing buildings in the commercial centre of Greensborough. “However, I’m supportive of this development because it’s in the main activity centre and adjacent to trains, buses and services, and it will provide much-needed housing. “Having said this, I’m keen to better understand your concerns and listen to your views. I’m very happy to meet with you to discuss this development. Let me know if you would like to organise this,” Mr Brooks said.
Data centre ‘unsuitable’ ■ A data centre planned for 165 Williamson Rd in South Morang is fundamentally unsuitable for the site, according to the City of Whittlesea. “This application has not been submitted for a Council decision but rather the Victorian Government’s fast-track program through the Development Facilitation Program,” said a Council representative. Council planning experts have provided a submission to the DFP which was endorsed t an unscheduled Council meeting on Friday (Nov. 5). Mayor Cr Lawrie Cox said: “What the people of South Morang don't need in their backyard is an eyesore of a building 9-10 stories high operating 24/7 that will decimate more than 200 trees and completely change the landscape, not to mention housing one million litres of diesel. "Data centres should be located in industrial sites away from residential areas,” Cr Cox said.
■ Police arrested 20 people in an operation targeting drug activity and weapons in Northland’s retail hub. Preston police officers, with assistance from the Dog Squad and Transit officers, targeted drug and weapons offences to reduce crime and provide a visible police presence in the operation which ran on October 20 and 29. Passive Alert Detection dogs were utilised during the operation to detect illicit drugs. The operation resulted in: ■ 20 arrests (15 for drug possession) ■ Nine weapons seized, including an imitation firearm, a baton, knuckle dusters and knives ■ 10 outstanding matters actioned ■ Upwards of 50 people searched Key arrests include: A 28-year-old Whittlesea man was arrested after police allegedly located weapons, cannabis and methyl-amphetamine. He was charged with possess imitation firearm, possess prohibited weapon (x6), possess controlled weapon without lawful excuse and drug offences and remanded to appear at court at a later date. A 49-year-old Reservoir man was arrested after officers allegedly located knuckle dusters and cannabis. He was charged with possess a drug of dependence and a prohibited weapon and bailed to appear at court at a later date. A 29-year-old Reservoir woman was arrested in relation to allegedly possessing a drug of dependence, along with several outstanding theft matters. She was charged and bailed to appear at court at a later date. Acting Sergeant Abdul-Rahman Masri from Transit North, said: “The community deserve a safe environment whether shopping or working. By proactively targeting anti-social behaviour, we're helping prevent further crime and improving safety for retailers, staff and the wider community. “We know illicit drug activity and weapons offences can have far-reaching impacts on the community, which is why we'll continue targeting those who choose to engage in it.”
Melbourne Classifieds PHONE
● Cr Lawrie Cox, Mayor
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Carjacking at Donnybrook
● Victoria Police. File Image.
■ Critical Incident Response Team members have arrested a man following a carjacking in Donnybrookon Sunday morning (Nov. 8). Police were made aware of the incident – on Eucalyptus Rd - via a call to Triple Zero (000) from one of the victims about 12.20am. Officers were told a woman was with her partner and young child when they pulled over to the side of the road looking for a rest stop, when a man approached the vehicle from behind a shrub. He got into the passenger side of the car and told the victim to drive. A short time later the trio were dropped off by the offender outside the Northern Hospital, extremely shaken but not physically injured. Members on patrol as part of Operation Phoenix spotted the silver Toyota and initiated a pursuit. The vehicle, with assistance from the Air Wing, was pursued by members on the ground along the Hume Hwy, Western Ring Road, Sydney Rd and through the northern suburbs of Epping, Thomastown and Campbellfield. The man was arrested shortly after when he drove into a service station on Centre Road in Tullamarine and surrendered peacefully to police. The 26-year-old man from Donnybrook was taken to hospital and remained under police guard. It was expected he will be interviewed by Banyule-Nillumbik Crime Investigation Unit in relation to the incident, once released.
Local News 2300 homes at Uni ■ The State Government is unlocking land for thousands of new homes at La Trobe University. Minister for Economic Development Anthony Carbines announced a historic title restriction on two parcels of land on the Bundoora campus will be removed – paving the way for around 2300 new homes. The site is part of the Unlocking Strategic Sites program, which fast-tracks the rezoning of underused land for new homes, jobs and investment. The site will include a minimum of 10 per cent affordable housing. La Trobe University will now progress the application and it will be subject to a full planning assessment and community consultation. Once development is underway, up to $13.6 million from the value captured from the sale of the land will be reinvested into future projects that support the local area. The development is expected to support more than 20,000 jobs, around 3000 construction jobs each year and $3.5 billion in Gross Regional Product over 10 years. This forms part of La Trobe’s broader $5 billion University City masterplan which aims to deliver around 9000 homes across the wider precinct and improve facilities to support more than 40,000 students. “La Trobe’s $5 billion University City will drive investment, support thousands of jobs and create new opportunities for businesses and workers across Melbourne’s north,” said Mr Carbines. Bundoora MLA Colin Brooks said: “Bundoora is a great place to live, and more homes, investment and jobs at La Trobe University will create a thriving precinct for housing, education, research and innovation – benefitting the whole community.”
MASONIC CENTRE SHUTS
■ The Masonic Temple in Davies St, Brunswick, is shut until further notice. In a letter to its members, a co-tenant of the building, one of its Chapters, wrote that a large portion of the ceiling cornice has fallen, near the Secretary's table. “The water stains on the walls are symptomatic of water ingress from the spouting, which I understand is completely rotted away,” said the Chapter’s representative. “This episode of falling cornice is an indicator of serious problems with the building. The strong odour of mould and dust was almost overpowering; there were also some questions about asbestos in the ceiling structure. “[Freemasons Victoria] has closed the building for all Lodge meetings for the foreseeable future.” There was speculation in the letter that the Chapter may move to the Preston Masonic Temple in Bell St, about four kilometres away. The Davies St building had its foundation stone laid in 1923. The building is less than 50 metres from Sydney Rd. There are many private residences nearby. District Co-Ordinator Rahim Samit sent a circular that blamed “recent heavy rain”. The Local Paper approached Freemasons Victoria and the Department of Health for comment, but no response had been received at press deadline. Merri-bek Council Unit Manager Communications, Eren Cakmakkaya, said that the Council “will need more time to consider your request” for comment. Freemasonry is a worldwide fraternity that pays homage to the notion of excellence in the craft of building. ■ Disclosure: The Editor of The Local Paper, Ash Long, was a member of Freemasons Victoria for 48 years, resigning in early September this year due to personal reasons. He no longer has any connection with the Freemasons organisation.
FIRE AT BUNDOORA PARK
● The clubhouse prior to the fire. Photo: Instagram. ■ Fire Rescue Victoria responded to multiple reports of a building fire at Bundoora Park at 10pm on Saturday (Nov. 7). Firefighters arrived on scene within five minutes to find the golf club clubhouse fully alight. Crews wore breathing apparatus and began an aggressive external attack of the blaze which had fully engulfed the 20 x 20 metre single-storey brick structure. No people were reported to be in the building at the time of the fire. The incident was declared under control at 11:55pm, almost two hours after FRV arrived on scene. The building has been destroyed in the blaze. Cause of the fire is yet to be determined. FRV crews remained on scene overnight to fully extinguish the fire with specialist fire investigators to attend the scene during the day.
● The operator of a 50-year-old Wollert basalt quarry is seeking approval to triple its depth, placing neighbouring farmers on notice over the future of their groundwater, reports Stock & Land newspaper.
● Davies St Masonic Temple in Brunswick. Photo: Google.
What’s On Sports breakfast ■ Parents, coaches and community sporting leaders are invited to hear from a panel of inspiring speakers at Nillumbik's Women in Sport Breakfast, exploring this year's theme, "Cheering Them On: The Role of Parents in Sport." The breakfast will bring together athletes, advocates and community leaders to discuss how parents and supportive sporting environments can help girls and young women build confidence, stay active and achieve their goals. Richmond AFLW co-captain Gabby Seymour is keynote speaker. Elite gymnast, coach and youth advocate Tahlia Edmonds will share her story of resilience after overcoming paralysis as a child to become a nationally ranked athlete. Jaimie Motta, Secretary of Diamond Creek Baseball Club, will provide insight into the role parents, volunteers and sporting clubs play. Eltham Community and Reception Centre. Friday, November 27, 7am to 8.30am.b Tickets: $25 per person or $200 for a table of 10. Bookings: nillumbik.vic.gov.au/wis
Local Briefs St Helena attack ■ A man has been charged after a violent road rage confrontation in St Helena left another man with a serious knife wound. Banyule-Nillumbik Crime Investigation Unit detectives arrested and charged a 43-year-old Mickleham man following the alleged assault on Lacebark Drive about 6am on Wednesday (Nov. 4). Police said the incident followed a driving dispute along the Western Ring Road, which escalated into a physical altercation in St Helena.
Mayoral election ■ The mayoral election for the city of Banyule was toi be held at 7pm last night (Tues., Nov. 10), as this issue of The Local Paper went to press.
Show traffic chaos ■ Plenty Rd traffic was delayed as far back as Mill Park because of the number of cars queued for the Whittlesea Show last weekend, despite rainy weather early on Saturday, improving on Sunday.
Artist opportunity ■ Nillumbik Council is calling on local artists who incorporate technology into their creative practice to apply for a technology-focused artist residency opportunity at the Banyule Nillumbik Tech School. Part of the expanded Nillumbik Artist in Residence Program 2026-27, the residency will provide artists with access to purpose-built creative spaces, cutting-edge technology and opportunities to connect with young people and the broader community. Open to individual artists working across any artform that incorporates technology, the residency supports creatives to develop new work in an inspiring environment away from the distractions of everyday life.
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Police Beat Knifing at Dandenong ■ Dandenong Family Violence Investigation Unit detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding an incident where three people were stabbed in Dandenong on Friday (Nov. 6). Emergency services were called to a home on Woodlee St after three people were located with injuries believed to be stab wounds, about 11.30am. A 28-year-old woman was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries. A 26-year-old man was transported to hospital with serious but non-life threating injuries. A 35-year-old man was conveyed to hospital with serious but non-life threating injuries. The circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be established. It is believed parties are known to each other and police are not looking for anyone else. A crime scene guard was put in place in Woodlee St. Anyone who was in the area at the time, who may have dashcam footage or CCTV footage, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
● There are two remaining ‘hard copy’ print issues remaining for 2027: Nov. 25 and Dec. 9.
POLICE LINK FINKS TO VIOLENT CRIME
■ Detectives will be proactively targeting members of the Finks outlaw motorcycle gang believed to be linked to acts of violence, arsons and extortions. The action is part of one of the first of the new organised crime priorities, Members from Taskforce Echo, Operation Phoenix, the VIPER Taskforce and uniform members will be increasing patrols, conducting Firearm Prohibition Order searches and services and executing search warrants. “The activity will focus on weakening the operational structure of the Finks OMCG,” said a Police representative. Detective Superintendent Wayne Cheesman, State Anti-Gangs Division ,said: “Outlaw motorcycle gangs are always looking for opportunities to generate illicit wealth, and they will exploit people and businesses to achieve it. “They often prey on vulnerable people and use violence, intimidation and fear to further their criminal interests. This is simply unacceptable. “Outlaw motorcycle gang offending
causes real harm to individuals, families and communities. Victoria Police will continue to target these gangs and dismantle their ability to cause harm. “My message to the Finks OMCG, and to any outlaw motorcycle gang that chooses to cause harm in our community, is very clear: if you choose to continue your involvement in serious and organised crime, Victoria Police is coming after you. “We will target you. We will stop your offending. We will dismantle the networks that enable your criminal activity, and we will come after the illicit wealth and assets generated through your offending. We will use every lawful avenue available to us to hold you to account.”
Crime Watch Stabbing in CBD ■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a man in Melbourne’s CBD on Friday evening (Nov. 6). Emergency services were called to Fredrick Way following reports a man had been located with suspected stab wounds just before 8.10pm. CPR was performed, but the man was declared deceased at the scene. A short time later, a second man was located nearby with a suspected stab wound. The man in his 30s was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A crime scene has been established, with cordons set up between Queen St and A’Beckett St. Homicide Squad detectives were on the scene.
Craigieburn ATM grab ■ Hume Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating after thieves tried to make off with an ATM in Craigieburn on Friday morning. Police attended the Hume Hwy scene, near Craigieburn Rd, following reports offenders had smashed their way into a service station about 3.20am. Once inside the store it appears they have tried to affix a chain onto the ATM.
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WIND IN THE WILLOWS AT BOTANIC GARDENS ARIES (March 21 - April 20) Lucky Colour: Mauve Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 7-8-1-4 Lotto Numbers: 7-18-20-26-33-35 A family discussion may be exactly what is needed to resolve the issues that have been causing concern. Business matters could improve sooner than expected, bringing greater confidence and renewed optimism for the future. TAURUS (April 21 - May 20) Lucky Colour: Pink Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 1-7-3-2 Lotto Numbers: 11-16-21-26-33-37 You are beginning to feel more relaxed, and this positive outlook will help create better opportunities ahead. Your talents and abilities are likely to be recognised, particularly in career or business pursuits. GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) Lucky Colour: Rose Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 3-1-6-4 Lotto Numbers: 3-15-20-23-39-41 You have every reason to feel proud of the effort you have invested in your career. More opportunities to relax are on the horizon, and spending time with special people will bring added happiness and enjoyment. CANCER (June 22 - July 22) Lucky Colour: Yellow Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 4-8-3-6 Lotto Numbers: 10-16-19-24-38-40 Work-related problems should gradually begin to resolve themselves. The contribution you have made to recent projects will soon be recognised, and rewards are likely to follow, even if they seem uncertain right now. LEO (July 23 - August 22) Lucky Colour: White Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 4-7-6-1 Lotto Numbers: 8-16-29-39-41-43 You may feel as though your time is being claimed by others, but your opportunity to focus on your own interests is approaching. More time for relaxation is ahead, and you will thoroughly enjoy the chance to unwind. VIRGO (August 23 - September 23) Lucky Colour: Grey Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 8-4-2-7 Lotto Numbers: 4-13-22-28-37-42 Your outlook on your social life is changing, and recognition for your past efforts will bring satisfaction. Be prepared, as demands on your time and attention are likely to increase in the weeks ahead. LIBRA (September 24 - October 23) Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 3-8-7-1 Lotto Numbers: 9-20-25-27-28-31 Any tensions with loved ones can be eased by building trust and encouraging open communication. A social event could inspire a fresh idea that opens your eyes to exciting new possibilities. SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22) Lucky Colour: Olive Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 3-1-3-8 Lotto Numbers: 16-23-31-33-35-41 Good fortune combined with hard work will become the key to your success in career matters. Remain flexible and open-minded, as this approach could help you gain exactly what you have been hoping for. SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20) Lucky Colour: Purple Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 7-3-4-6 Lotto Numbers: 4-8-17-20-25-37 Unexpected and deeply personal encounters may completely change the way you view someone or a particular situation. Financial opportunities are also improving, giving you a chance to strengthen your future security. CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19) Lucky Colour: Orange Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 5-3-7-4 Lotto Numbers: 3-15-25-26-31-36 Property or real estate matters may require your attention, and a purchase could soon become a reality. A future move appears likely, so keep your loved ones informed well in advance to avoid unnecessary surprises. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19) Lucky Colour: Lemon Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 4-1-6-1 Lotto Numbers: 14-28-31-32-37-44 A new and exciting relationship may begin, or an old romance could unexpectedly return. In business matters, listen to the ideas of others, as collaboration will produce better results than trying to do everything alone. PISCES (February 20 - March 20) Lucky Colour: Cream Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 8-3-1-5 Lotto Numbers: 6-19-28-30-37-38 Changes or cancellations could affect your holiday or travel plans, so remain flexible. Giving some-
one a second chance may prove worthwhile, and you could be pleasantly surprised by an unexpected improvement in your financial situation.
■ This summer, the Australian Shakespeare Company’s The Wind in the Willows marks its 40th anniversary season at the Royal Botanic Gardens, from December 18 January 24. Created by Australian Shakespeare Company founder and Artistic Director Glenn Elston in 1987, The Wind in the Willows has become one of Australia’s longestrunning outdoor theatre productions, having played to more than a million people across Australia and introduced generations of children to the magic of live theatre. Staged against the natural backdrop of the Royal Botanic Gardens, the production brings Kenneth Grahame’s well known characters Ratty, Mole, Badger, Otter, Portly and Mr Toad back to life for another summer of adventure, music, laughter and outdoor theatre. Glenn Elston said: “40 years is an extraordinary milestone. When we first The performed Wind in the Willows in 1987, we could never have imagined that it would still be bringing families together four decades later. “We have audiences who came as children who are now bringing their own children, and even their grandchildren. “That’s what makes this production so special, and I feel incredibly lucky that we’ve been able to share it with generations of Australians.” Audience members are encouraged to arrive early, bring picnic blankets, favourite snacks and drinks to enjoy a relaxed, picnicstyle event. The performance will then move between various scenic spots within the gardens, making it an adventure for the whole family and a unique way to experience theatre under the Melbourne skies. The Australian Shakespeare Company is one of Australia’s leading independent theatre companies, renowned for taking theatre out of traditional venues and into parks, gardens and other spectacular outdoor settings, and for having pioneered large
75 Years Ago From Our Files ● 1951
● Wind In The Willows scale outdoor theatre in Australia. Location: Royal Botanic Gardens, Oak Lawn Gate Dates: December 18-January 24 Times: 10am and 6pm Tickets: $25– $30 or $90– $110 per group of four B o o k i n g s : shakespeare australia.com.au or call 8676 7511 or via Ticketmaster
After The Flood ■ After the Flood is a new AustralianJewish musical by Ari Jacob and Josh Gurgiel, which tells the story of the generation gap be tween a father, Noah (Simon Starr), and his three adult children. Like a biblical family a millennium ago, Noah has a vision. A devastating flood will destroy the world, and Noah must build an ark to save his family. At first, his children dismiss his prophecy, calling him the “flood whisperer”. Noah asserts his patriarchal authority. “Our children are destroying the chains that bind us to our ancestors!” he argues to his wife, Naama (Deborah Conway), who has the thankless task of negotiating peace be tween her husband and her children. “Trust your children, trust God, trust me,” she pleads. Each child faces an existential crisis: his daughter Yafet (Michelle Swersky) is in love with a goyboy (non-Jewish), his son Ham (Eli Faraday) is gay, and his youngest daughter Shem
(Amira Cherie) is depressed and possibly suicidal. Noah dismisses their concerns. “This life de mands painful sacrifices,” he says. To modern sensibilities, Noah seems to be unravelling. Given Naama and the children’s legitimate concerns, it’s not always clear why they choose to follow their father’s lead. Therein lies the dilemma: would you have enough faith to give up everything you have and blindly follow a madman in light of a prophecy? More a rock opera than a musical, the show uses effortless, tuneful numbers to punctuate the narrative. Deborah Conway’s wonderfully powerful vocals are to be expected. Her co-stars are more than a match for H her, and their tight harmonies create a melodious blend. Fantastic lighting and sound design create a tense atmosphere that heightens appre hension. A cleverly de signed, simple set made from movable frames transforms from home to ark. In all, an ambitious and worthy new work.
Review by Kathryn Keeble
People, What Have You Done? ■ Exit Theatre presents an English version of People, What Have You Done? on November 14 at the Richmond Rowing Club at 7.30pm and November 20, 21 and 27 at Chum Creek After success of the Polish version
staged two years ago for La Mama's Mother Tongue Festival, Exit Theatre decided to produce its English version. Written by Alek Silber and adapted and performed by Kristof Kaczmarek, the play reflects on the feelings of newcomers to Australia, telling of young Alek, who arrives in Australia in the early 60s - an exotic and distant country, where everything seems oldfashioned, culturally backward and unknown. A young man, Alek, attempts to define himself in this unwanted new reality after being forced to leave his love, his friends, his beloved Warsaw, and the life he knew. In this one-man show based on Silber's memoirs, Kristof Kaczmarek will reflect and give a light-hearted account of the everyday reality of a migrant that shines a light on the hopes, failures and joys of building a new life, surrounded by strangers. Can he cope with the alienation? Is he ever going to return? Is he ever going to call Australia his home? Performance Dates: November 14 at 7.30pm at the Richmond Rowing Club, 7 Boathouse Drive, Melbourne. B o o k i n g s : t r y b o o k i n g. c o m / DQWQA November 20, 21 and 27 at 7.30pm at 3 Old Chum Creek Rd., Chum Creek. Enquiries: 0431 875 755 or theatre.exit@gmail. com
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● The Argus. Sat., Nov. 10, 1951.
Indies no reply From JACK CANNON in Brisbane ■ The balloon of ballyhoo that preceded these West Indians to Australia was quickly deflated when they had their first taste of Australia's whiplash attack. Only a terrific effort- by their skipper, John Goddard, enabled them to pass the 200 mark. And world-famous batsmen had no answer to bowling that was better than Sheffield Shield standard.
Death, ruin ■ Bushfires, described as "the worst in history” are sweeping huge areas of Queensland and New South Wales. In Queensland, one fire trapped and fatally burned one man and severely injured three others. Losses in the central western districts are described as "frightening." More than 40,000 sheep, cattle, and horses have been lost. In New South Wales fires race out of control through big areas of the northwest.
Mosquito down ■ A R.A.A.F. Mosquito with pilot and navigator aboard is missing on flight from Darwin to Townsville. The plane is believed to have been forced down with engine trouble in very rough country somewhere between Darwin and Camooweal, Queensland. A R.A.A.F. plane based on Darwin searched late today, but failed to find the missing Mosquito.
Monkeys escape ■ Eight rhesus monkeys have had a week-long spree at Perth Zoo after escaping from their cage. They celebrated their freedom by: * Swinging over a yard in which dingoes were kept, teasing the dogs to nearfrenzy. * Dropping on unsuspecting picnic parties to raid al fresco meals. * Grabbing sweets from children's prams. * Leaping through trees al- most all day, defying keepers' pursuit. * Watching people leave food for them, and snatching it up when the coast was clear The monkeys were trapped yesterday when keepers lured them into a cage with a drop door.
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What’s On Closer
Local Theatre Stiletto Awards ■ The 33rd Scarlet Stiletto Awards Ceremony will be held during a sit-down dinner on Saturday, November 21 at 6pm (bar opens) at the Stamford Plaza in Little Collins St, Melbourne. The Scarlet Stiletto Awards are run by Sisters in Crime Australia, a national organisation dedicated to promoting women's crime writing. The competition has generated more than 5000 entries since it began in 1994. Chair of the judging panel Emeritus Professor Christina Lee said the judges were delighted with the quality of stories submitted this year. “We were particularly happy to see many stories that showed female characters with strong agency, solving crimes or escaping dangerous situations,” she said. Vikki Petraitis, author of The Unbelieved, which has recently been adapted into the ABC TV series Dustfall, said she was thrilled to present the Awards. "For years, these awards have championed emerging women writers, with many successful authors tracing the beginnings of their careers back to a Scarlet Stiletto. "It is a privilege to celebrate the next generation of storytellers and the voices that may one day shape Australia's crime writing landscape," said Ms Petraitis. Kerryn Mayne, author of Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder and Joy Mundy Is Out of Time will host the awards. Full list of the shortlisted stories from the 33rd Scarlet Stiletto Awards can be found on sistersincrime.org.au/scarletstiletto-awards-2026/ Sit-down dinner at the Stamford Plaza, 111 Little Collins St., Melbourne. Saturday November 21, 6pm (Bar Opens) Dress code: Scarlet Ticket prices: $80 (Sisters In Crime member) or $95 (non-member) Tickets must be purchased by Wednesday November 11 and are available at: eventbrite.com.au/e/33rd-scarlet-stiletto-awards-tickets2003848538922?aff=oddtdcreator
Cheryl Threadgold
Remembering My Wild ■ Award-winning Melbourne artist Elli Bardas will present Remembering My Wild, a pop-up exhibition with a new iteration of her Wild Things series, at 230 Chapel St, Prahran from November 21 to December 6. The exhibition will be open every day from 12 Noon-7pm. Admission is free. Combining her love of sculpture and portrait photography, Bardas has created an all-encompassing colourful world that centres the human spirit, exploring ideas around personal empowerment. The works invite viewers to consider what might be possible if we imagined a world shaped by joy, love and abundance rather than fear and division. The Wild Things are said to be visual representations of our individual, quirky selves. Bardas describes them as talismans: reminders of personal power and of who we are before the world asks us to conform. Bardas works with an unconventional mix of materials, including feathers, flowers, foam, pom poms, pins, pipe cleaners, beads, glitter, ribbon, streamers and studs. Play is central to her process, and she chooses materials that are fun to work with and encourage experimentation. The use of colourful, easily accessible materials references ideas around joy and play as well as aiming to flatten art making hierarchies. For Bardas, each image is a celebration of our individuality and is designed to convey feelings of joy, hope and empowerment. Dates: November 21 - December 6 Venue: 230 Chapel St, Prahran Every day from 12 Noon-7pm Free Admission https://www.ellibardas.com/
Cheryl Threadgold
JIMMIE THE BEATLE
● Tom May (Jimmie Nicol) in Jimmie the Beatle.
■ Frankston Theatre Group presents Jimmie the Beatle from November 20December 6 at the Mt Eliza Centre, Canadian Bay Road, Mt Eliza. Directed by Tim Byron, the biographical drama chronicles the sudden rise and quiet disappearance of Jimmie Nicol, the drummer who stepped out of the shadows to join the biggest band in the world at the height of Beatlemania. In June 1964, on the eve of The Beatles' historic Australasian tour, Ringo Starr collapsed with severe tonsillitis. Rather than cancelling the highly anticipated shows and disappointing millions of screaming fans, manager Brian Epstein made a frantic last-minute call to session drummer Jimmie Nicol. Overnight, Nicol went from an anonymous musician to riding in limousines with John, Paul and George, playing historic concerts in Denmark, the Netherlands, Hong Kong and Australia. Jimmie The Beatle explores the dizzying highs and isolation of sudden, temporary celebrity. The production pulls back the curtain
on the backstage tensions - including George Harrison’s fierce initial resistance to replacing Ringo - and the reality waiting for Jimmie when the tour ended in Melbourne. He was handed a gold watch and a plane ticket back to regular life, while the Fab Four moved on. This isn't just a story about music; it's a deeply human look at identity and what happens when your wildest dream comes true" says Director Tim Byron. The production features a local cast bringing historical figures to life, including Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Brian Epstein, and the whirlwind of journalists, hotel staff, and frenzied fans that defined the era. Performance Details: Venue: Mt Eliza Centre, 90-100 Canadian Bay Rd, Mt Eliza Cabaret seating (BYO drinks and nibbles) Season Dates: November 20-December 6. Evening performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm; Matinee performances on Sundays at 2pm. Ticket information, booking options, and full scheduling are available directly through www.trybooking.com
Cheryl Threadgold
Smoke
● From top left: Will Hall, Tyrie Aspinal, Cassidy Dunn, Shamita Siva and Oriana Morris-Johnson in Smoke.
■ Hugo Gutteridge's dark comedy Smoke will debut for a strictly limited season at the Theatreworks Explosive Factory, St Kilda from November 18-28. Directed by Bagryana Popov and starring a host of young Melbourne-based actors including Sam Buckley (37), Lachlan Hamill (Berlin), Cassidy Dunn (Beyond the Neck) and Hugo Gutteridge (Death of a Salesman), Smoke is written in the voice and style of Melbourne’s youth. An early morning in an inner-city club starts to meld into the surreal as its smoking area becomes a stage for ghosts of the past, inter-dimensional drug dealers and existential dread. Smoke is said to reflect the feelings of young adults of the city’s nightlife in the 21st century - to reveal the anxiety, the apathy and confusion, as well as the hope and the desire for connection and love. Playwright/producer Gutteridge says, "It is a love letter to Melbourne’s club culture and to those hours before dawn when almost anything could happen." Performance Season: November 18-28 Venue: TheatreWorks Explosive Factory, St Kilda. Duration: 90 minutes without intermission Bookings: https://www.theatreworks. org.au/2026/smoke
Cheryl Threadgold
■ For the staging of Closer, The 1812 Théatre opened their door to Avid Theatre, founded in 2011 by Michale Finnemore as an independent platform for innovative work for theatre and festivals. English playwright Patrick Marber penned the work for premiere in 1997, then later he adapted it for the film of the same name in 2014. Four people pursue love, several romances evolve, however the characters swap partners frequently with a liberal use of the word 'f'. Perhaps more than expected. Yes, the play is about sex and lust, with a mix of love and lies. Alice meets Dan, Anna meets Larry and with the attraction to the other's partner we had lying, betrayal, indulgence all creating high emotional tensions. Larry is a doctor played by the director, Michael Finnemore who meets Alice played by Abby Pettigrew, who with a leg injury is brought into Larry’s surgery by Dan played by Tim Cox. Larry, who we thought to be a respectable English Doctor in his white coat, has overtly sexual desires, be it fantasy or indulgence. Alice is a stripper and fragile, finding she doesn’t love Dan anymore, while Anna played by Kate Lawson, a photographer, seeks Larry to sign their divorce papers. Nothing is straightforward with many twists and turns and while there were some comedic moments, one being an internet sex chat line with Dan tricking Larry into a very explicit sexual exchange as ‘Anna’ that reveals Larry as being sexually aggressive and emotionally exposed. Staging was aided by well produced Audio Visuals giving insight to the scene locations such as Anna’s Studio, the Surgery, the Strip Club and much more. Impressive was the original music Avid had commissioned that heightened expectations during scene changes. Emotionally draining performances by Kate, Abby and Tim were well crafted in meeting the demands of the script. I am very cautious of directors being actors in the same work and actors being directors in the same work. Michael’s performance level varied greatly and bar the unnecessary high shouting and some poor costuming, he did play the sex obsessive Doctor with veracity. An interesting choice of production by 1812 Theatre.
Review by Graeme McCoubrie
Treasures ■ Treasures of Tutankhamun , an immersive exhibition brings Ancient Egypt to life, and is making its Australian debut in Melbourne this December, and the waitlist for tickets is now open. Featuring artisan-crafted replicas of Tutankhamun’s legendary treasures, including his Golden Mask and inner golden coffin, an immersive 360° projection telling the story of Howard Carter’s 1922 discovery of the tomb, and a Walking VR experience that accompanies Tutankhamun on his journey from young Pharaoh to the afterlife, Treasures of Tutankhamun will give visitors a deeper look into the life, history and legacy of Tutankhamun.
Ensemble win ■ One of Australia’s most prestigious opportunities for emerging chamber musicians has been awarded, with Melbourne’s Cedar Quartet named the 2027 Australian Festival of Chamber Music Fellowship Ensemble. Earlier this year, violinists Sara Barbagallo and Jessica Leigh, violist Edmund Mantelli and cellist Sarah Wang arrived in Cairns as emerging musicians in AFCM’s Pathways Program and Artistic Director Jack Liebeck was listening. In 2027, they will return as AFCM’s Fellowship Ensemble, performing on the Festival’s main stage, working alongside some of the world’s finest chamber musicians and sharing the Festival with 2027 ensemble-in-residence, the internationally acclaimed VOCES8.
Contributed
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New home for Jets
ELECTION COUNTDOWN UNTIL NOVEMBER 28
■ A record number of Victorians will head to the polls to elect the 61st Parliament of Victoria on Saturday, November 28, following the issue of the election writs and close of the roll today. State Governor Margaret Gardner issued the writs for the state election to the Victorian Electoral Commission, formally triggering the election process. Approximately 4.7 million Victorians are expected to be enrolled to vote in the state election, at the close of roll. “A democracy is at its strongest when everyone participates. It is the right and the responsibility of every eligible Victorian to have their say,” Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel said. “We make it easy for everyone to make their voice heard with a range of voting options on and before election day. Plan ahead and choose the option that best suits you.” All Victorian households will receive the VEC’s EasyVote guide in the mail. The guide explains the different voting options and how to can complete the ballot papers to make the vote count. “This guide is here to make participating in our democracy as easy as possible, no matter how or where you choose to do it,” Mr Bluemmel said. Victorians can also apply for a postal vote at vec.vic.gov.au/postal-voting, noting applications close at 6pm on Wednesday, November 25. Voters can choose to vote in person at early voting centres that will open statewide from Wednesday November 18, or vote on election day, Saturday November. 28. Voting centre locations, including accessibility details, are available at maps.vec.vic.gov.au/elections Accessible services are also available for eligible voters, including: ■ telephone-assisted voting ■ Braille-printed ballots for people who are blind or low vision ■ more than 400 mobile voting services delivered by VEC to the community, including hospitals, aged care and services for people without a home ■ low sensory mobile voting services in each of the 88 state districts for people with low sensory needs and their carers on Tuesday (Nov.17) The election writs must be returned on or before Saturday, December 19. Rod Basto, Horse Racing
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Overseas or interstate? ■ Eligible Victorians will be able to vote in the 2026 state election from places as far as Dublin and as remote as Antarctica, with in-person and postal voting options available for those unable to attend a voting centre in Victoria. In-person voting services for Victorians overseas during the election will return for the first time since 2018, after COVID-19 restrictions prevented the service from operating in 2022. Voters will be able to vote in-person in 21 countries, or request their ballot papers by email, to print and return to Victoria via mail or at selected in-person locations. Interstate voters can cast their vote at any Australian state or territory electoral commission during business hours from November 20-27. Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel said Victorians travelling within the state will also be able to cast their vote in-person from any voting centre during the election, vote during the early voting period or register for a postal vote on the VEC website. “Voting in the state election is compulsory for all eligible Victorians, so we’re making it as easy as possible with a voting option for everyone,” Mr Bluemmel said. “If you’re travelling on Saturday November 28, you can choose to vote early, register for a postal vote or access inperson voting, including our interstate and overseas voting options. Plan ahead and make sure your voice is heard.” A list of interstate and overseas voting and vote drop-off points can be found on the VEC’s Voting Centre Locator application at maps.vec.vic. gov.au/elections
● Sven Bluemmel
Security concerns
● Early voting centre
■ Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel says he met with Premier Ben Carroll to discuss concerns about safety and security at voting centres. “Every Victorian has the right to participate in the upcoming election safely and free from intimidation or interference of any kind,” Mr Bluemmel said. “My team and I are working hard to make sure that continues. “We released our service plan for the state election in August, which outlines how we will maintain safety at the election. “This includes: ■ proactively working with safety and law enforcement agencies, such as Victoria Police ■ deploying compliance officers across the state to help everyone outside voting centres to participate safely and in accordance with the law ■ applying crime prevention through environmental design principles within the venues available to us, including considering layout, access points and set-up ■ launching a registration system for visitors to election venues to register their name and emergency contact details ■ publishing a dedicated campaigner handbook for the first time, which includes information about behaviours that the community should expect from campaigners and was co-designed with input from registered political parties to support a positive experience for everyone ■ training for our election workforce, including ways to make voting a safe and enjoyable experience for every Victorian. “We have a proud history of free and fair elections where everyone has the right to participate and have their voice heard. Our role is to continue this tradition for the benefit of all current and future Victorians,” Mr Bluemmel said.
■ Plans are underway for young people to have a new creative hub in the heart of Greensborough, with Banyule Council planning a purpose-built facility for Jets Studios at 1 Joyce Avenue. Jets Studios is the Council’s creative arts studio and programming space for young people and community groups. It is currently based in an industrial estate in Bundoora. Banyule Mayor, Cr Alison Champion, said the new Greensborough location was an exciting opportunity for young people.
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2026 STATE ELECTION CANDIDATES
This alphabetical list may be incomplete until nominations close. Electorates are in The Local Paper circulation areas. CANDIDATE PARTY Albert Park Colleen Bolger Victorian Socialists Andrew Cook Liberal Georgie Dragwidge Independent Adrian King Independent Tammy Lindrum One Nation Daniel O'Neill AJP Sonya Semmens The Greens Nina Taylor Australian Labor Party Ashwood Matt Fregon Australian Labor Party Hitendra Joshi Independent Steven Mitchell One Nation Tim Randall The Greens Theo Zographos Liberal Jacob van der Eynden Victorian Socialists Bayswater Kayte Bleakney One Nation Julie Buxton Australian Labor Party Mathew Clarke Independent Gary Coombes Family First Alec Ferguson Victorian Socialists Jess Kennedy The Greens David Kitchen Liberal Berwick Brad Battin Liberal Vincenzo De Paolis Family First Roshan De Silva The Greens Nalinda Amarasiri Gunawardana Victorian Socialists Rana Khan Australian Labor Party Ethelyn King Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Michael Piastrino One Nation Box Hill Saravina Afaj Victorian Socialists Jamie Baker One Nation Peter Fagg Family First Paul Hamer Australian Labor Party Sally Houguet Liberal Aaron Qin The Greens Heena Sinha Cheung Independent Brighton Ebony Bain The Greens Alexander Fagan One Nation Anthony Hain Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Bridget Mullahy Australian Labor Party James Newbury Liberal Jessica Smith Victorian Socialists James Newbury Liberal Jessica Smith Victorian Socialists Broadmeadows Sue Bolton Socialist Alliance Mutullah Can Yolbulan Victorian Socialists Baris Duzova Liberal Ethan Keirs One Nation Kathleen Matthews-Ward Australian Labor Party Maryam Nasim The Greens Rachel Unicomb AJP Brunswick Jack Amanatidis Independent Naomi Farmer Victorian Socialists Adam Helman One Nation Adam Pulford The Greens India Rose AJP Gabe Steger Australian Labor Party Mel Yuan Independent Bulleen Mahdi Athari One Nation Tim Dale Australian Labor Party Matthew Guy Liberal Tomas Lightbody The Greens Greg Rublee Independent Dimitrios Tafidis Victorian Socialists Bundoora Colin Brooks Australian Labor Party Nina Laitala The Greens Melissa Murphy-Webster Independent Chloe Nicolosi AJP Chris Parr Liberal Sagar Sanyal Victorian Socialists Bruce Whalley One Nation Carrum Reema Ababneh Victorian Socialists Sonya Kilkenny Australian Labor Party Harley Mackenzie Legalise Cannabis Joshua Mathews One Nation Carolyn Moore AJP Zoe Pegrum The Greens Jeff Shelley Liberal Trevor Smith Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Caulfield Malak Ababneh Victorian Socialists Michael Abelman One Nation Angel Dolejsi The Greens Geneviève Gilbert Family First David Southwick Liberal Mikaela Stafrace Australian Labor Party
Clarinda Gavin Bain One Nation Conor Boyd-Eedle The Greens Meng Heang Tak Australian Labor Party Kit Message Victorian Socialists John Paganis Liberal Liam RocheLibertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Caroline White Independent Cranbourne Shane Foreman Family First Andrew Hirst One Nation Annalise Mercer The Greens Pauline Richards Australian Labor Party Gino Tripodi Liberal Reem Yunis Victorian Socialists Croydon Glenn Brindley One Nation Richard Farr Australian Labor Party Lini Fernando The Greens Beth Grimshaw Victorian Socialists David Vanderwolf Independent Toby Wooldridge Liberal Dandenong William Billings Liberal Catherine D'Arcy The Greens Jordan Forte Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Jack McMahon Victorian Socialists Gabrielle Williams Australian Labor Party Glenda Wright One Nation Eildon Tim Barber One Nation Chloe Bond AJP Kevin Gibson Australian Labor Party Talia Gulpilil The Greens Dylan Little Victorian Socialists Cindy McLeish Liberal Tom Ward Independent Eltham Rachel Busbridge The Greens Paul Byrnes Liberal Steven Marasea Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Maeve Riches Victorian Socialists Vicki Ward Australian Labor Party Jessie Weatherley One Nation Essendon Ava Adams Independent John Barnes One Nation Michal Kedem Victorian Socialists Tommy Le Deux Liberal Katerine Theodosis Australian Labor Party James Williams The Greens Oscar Yildiz Independent Euroa Steve Campbell One Nation Annabelle Cleeland The Nationals Karina Kelly AJP Zoe Lyle Victorian Socialists Alysia Regan The Greens Moussa Taouk Family First Evelyn Jan Heald AJP Andrew Henley The Greens Daniel Killey One Nation James Scanlon Victorian Socialists Analise Sherlock Australian Labor Party Nofoao Thomas Family First Bridget Vallence Liberal Footscray Tim Chang Liberal Jasmine Duff Victorian Socialists Katie Hall Australian Labor Party Alexander Lopez One Nation Jess Marsh Independent Minh Quan Nguyen West Elena Pereyra The Greens Frankston Chrysten Abraham Independent Bree Ambry Liberal Andrew Cheeseman Victorian Socialists Paul Edbrooke Australian Labor Party Katie Goulas The Greens Julie Harman AJP Jeffrey Knipe Legalise Cannabis Peter Nicholes Family First Paul Stafford One Nation Glen Waverley Brad Cox One Nation John Mullahy Australian Labor Party Nicholas Siow Victorian Socialists Jacky Sun Liberal Toyo White The Greens Greenvale Rosanna Furina AJP Mazen John Citizens Party Declan McGinness The Greens Chris Moore One Nation Jim Overend Liberal Kirill Smelov Victorian Socialists Iwan Walters Australian Labor Party
Hastings One Nation AJP Victorian Socialists Australian Labor Party Liberal The Greens Hawthorn Clive Crosby Australian Labor Party Shima Ibuki Independent Tess McEnearney Victorian Socialists John Pesutto Liberal Paul Pribilovics One Nation Kylie Rocha The Greens Ivanhoe Anthony Carbines Australian Labor Party Nina Crawley The Greens Wayne Hutchinson One Nation Michelle Kennedy Independent Oscar Lopez Liberal Ben Milne Victorian Socialists Peter Angelico Chloe Coulson Michael Denman Paul Mercurio Frank Schiefler Isaac Willoughby
Kalkallo Liberal Victorian Socialists Australian Labor Party One Nation The Greens Kew Jackie Carter The Greens David Laird One Nation Samantha Lincolne Victorian Socialists Ann Seeley Family First David Sun Australian Labor Party Sophie Torney Independent Jess Wilson Liberal Kororoit Jack Chakoma Liberal Luba Grigorovitch Australian Labor Party Rayan Hassan Victorian Socialists Vasundhara Kandpal AJP Joyce McDonald The Greens Seva Melnikov One Nation Donna Southern West Laverton Suchithra Chittedi The Republican Sarah Connolly Australian Labor Party Jo Garcia Family First Shohre Mansouri AJP Lucy Nguyen The Greens Ghada Noune Liberal Rufo Paredes One Nation Van Thanh Rudd Victorian Socialists Macedon Dom Bonanno Independent Annette Death Australian Labor Party Kate Kendall Liberal Natalie Korinfsky AJP Marley McRae McLeod The Greens Damien Parolin One Nation Michael Seton Independent Catherine Wilson Victorian Socialists Malvern Edward Bode One Nation Amelia Hamer Liberal Georgia Katsikis The Greens Gavin Leonard Victorian Socialists David SegalLibertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Christina Zigouras Independent Melbourne Rafael Camillo Liberal Matthew Collins One Nation Davydd Griffiths Australian Labor Party Naomi Jones AJP Rob McCathie Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Ellen Sandell The Greens Rowan Tuckfield Independent Jordan van den Lamb Victorian Socialists Melton Fiona Adin-James AJP Jarrod Bingham Liberal Broden Borg Australian Labor Party Matthew Katselis One Nation Daire Kelly Victorian Socialists Hayden Legro West Veronika Levchenkova The Greens Marlene West Family First Mill Park Joel Drysdale Liberal Jesse Lambourn Victorian Socialists Eve Levens AJP Elizabeth Nealy Australian Labor Party Arthur Tsoutsoulis One Nation Binoy Zacharias The Greens Monbulk Merran Blair The Greens Noah Briggs Victorian Socialists Daniela De Martino Australian Labor Party Adrian Dowell One Nation Clare Fitzmaurice Liberal Craig Manners Family First Alyssa Wormald AJP Eddie Dadisho Courtney Millett Ros Spence Troy Steans Payal Tiwari
Mordialloc Alex Breskin The Greens Mahee Hossain Victorian Socialists Paul O'Halloran Liberal Lily Potucek Family First Tim Richardson Australian Labor Party Nadia Ticehurst One Nation Rachel Versteegen Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Mornington Ashli Beards One Nation Gene Brownlie Victorian Socialists Chris Crewther Liberal Melissa Goffin Independent Kerry Macdonald Australian Labor Party Adrian Maher Independent Kai Titcher The Greens Mulgrave Connor Buchanan Victorian Socialists Ian Cook Independent Eden Foster Australian Labor Party Cody Rebbechi One Nation Paul Schofield The Greens Fotini Theodossopoulou Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Charles Tran Liberal Narre Warren North Sebastian Crutchfield One Nation Lachlan McCracken Victorian Socialists Shemane Nathanielsz Liberal Hayley Perry The Greens Josh Utoyo Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Belinda Wilson Australian Labor Party
Narre Warren South Lydia Denker Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Trevor Hammond One Nation Stefan Koomen Australian Labor Party Bailey McCracken Victorian Socialists Jill Nambu The Greens Norliah Peterson Liberal Scott Watson Independent Nepean Mike Brown Family First Tamara Champion AJP Sianan Healy The Greens Darren Hercus One Nation Anthony Marsh Liberal Kim Robbins Independent Surbhi Snowball Australian Labor Party Seth Willcocks Victorian Socialists Niddrie Samantha Byrne Liberal Ben Carroll Australian Labor Party Salomae Haselgrove AJP Brendan Laws Victorian Socialists Lana Nguyen The Greens Brett Patrikeos West Jason Taverna One Nation Northcote Lynda Awad Liberal Campbell Gome The Greens Kath Larkin Victorian Socialists Jim Penman Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Kat Theophanous Australian Labor Party Oakleigh Rowdy Bugter Victorian Socialists Brooke Carter One Nation Steve Dimopoulos Australian Labor Party Hsiang-Han Hsieh The Greens Martin Jung Liberal Pakenham Radmila Dyson Liberal Raymond French Independent Stephanie Grigg Victorian Socialists Kate Hands Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Mary-Kate Louis Independent Warren Pickering One Nation Alessandra Soliven Australian Labor Party Nasser Yawari The Greens Pascoe Vale Jacob Andrewartha Socialist Alliance Kathrine Ashton Family First Anthony Cianflone Australian Labor Party Andrew Forehan One Nation Angelica Panopoulos The Greens Yasemin Shamsili Victorian Socialists Point Cook Kirti Alle The Republican Mark Grech West Mathew Hilakari Australian Labor Party Ponraj Krishna Pandi The Greens Taylor Laine Victorian Socialists Keith Meure Family First Raja Reddy Liberal Cameron Reid One Nation Prahran Angelica Di Camillo The Greens Clayton Doueihi Victorian Socialists Meghan Hopper Australian Labor Party Shaun Virsu One Nation Rachel Westaway Liberal
Preston Liberal Victorian Socialists Independent AJP One Nation Australian Labor Party The Greens Family First Richmond Charles Aponso Liberal Chris Dite Victorian Socialists Bernadette Gray Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Sarah McKenzie Australian Labor Party David Meyer Independent Harrison Rindfleish One Nation Gabrielle de Vietri The Greens Ringwood Prue Cutts Independent Jack Gardner Victorian Socialists Rachel Halse Australian Labor Party Elaine Huang Family First Nick McGowan Liberal Amy Mills The Greens John O'Connor One Nation Rowville Lars Hiemstra Victorian Socialists Dave Massey The Greens Scott Robson Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Muhammad Shahbaz Australian Labor Party Bradley Watt One Nation Max Williams Liberal Hamza Al Katranji Serena Ashmore Zheng Chin Peita Collard Franco Guardiani Nathan Lambert Loki Sangarya Julio Valencia
Sandringham Anthony Blight One Nation Timon Fotakis The Greens Brad Rowswell Liberal Anastasia Sagris-Desmond Australian Labor Party Lauren Stevenson Victorian Socialists St Albans John Cowell One Nation Rob Dunstan Liberal Bao Huynh The Greens Leanna Nguyen Victorian Socialists Natalie Suleyman Australian Labor Party Luan Walker West Sunbury Adam Bremner Victorian Socialists Josh Bull Australian Labor Party Simmone Cottom Liberal Elita Dabrowski One Nation Lauren Granger-Brown The Greens Sydenham Nancy Batres-Croes Family First Joh Bauch One Nation Matthew De Angelis Independent Maggie Jane The Greens Maria Kerr Independent Shania Khan Victorian Socialists Nathalie Moussi Liberal Uros Rasic Australian Labor Party Ashleigh Vandenberg Independent Tarneit Andrew Elsbury West Horizana Niyongabire Family First Rifai Raheem The Greens Maurita Rahn AJP Sindhu Sudhagani The Republican Venkat Ram Upparlapalle Liberal Leah Van Keulen Victorian Socialists Walter Villagonzalo One Nation Dylan Wight Australian Labor Party Thomastown Nadia Anthony One Nation Bronwyn Halfpenny Australian Labor Party Priya Reddy Victorian Socialists Belinda Stojcevski Liberal Gavin Trewalla The Greens Warrandyte Mark Burnside One Nation Vanessa Muradian The Greens Rebecca Paterson Australian Labor Party Caleb Schwab Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) John Stanley Victorian Socialists Nicole Werner Liberal Werribee Reece Clark Liberal Matthew Emerson Family First Paul Hopper West Tushar Kumar The Greens John Lister Australian Labor Party Sue Munro Victorian Socialists Paul Pateras One Nation Williamstown Tony Briffa Independent Gill Gannon West Ben Hocking The Greens Melissa Horne Australian Labor Party Paul Lindemann Liberal Catherine Loughnan One Nation Oskar Martin Victorian Socialists Yan Yean Andrew Bell Victorian Socialists Troy Cheers Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) Amanda Dow Liberal Jeremy Johnson One Nation Lauren Kathage Australian Labor Party Gufran Mohammed The Greens Sinan Okatan AJP
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Homemaker
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Homemaker
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Homemaker
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Great Destinations. Interesting Things To Do. Fascinating People To Meet.
Places To Go www.Places2Go.com.au
Travel Briefs Insured? ■ RACV Travel forecasts thousands of Victorians travelling this year could unknowingly travel uninsured as changes to complimentary credit card insurance take effect. The warning comes as several major Australian banks scale back or remove complimentary travel insurance benefits attached to some credit cards, potentially leaving travellers with less cover, or no cover at all. RACV Travel Insurance received more than 4000 claims in the past financial year alone and more than 9100 claims over the past two years, highlighting just how common unexpected travel disruptions can be. RACV Travel Insurance Manager Judith Gamble said many travellers could mistakenly assume they still have the same level of cover they've relied on in the past. Several major banks have already reduced or removed complimentary travel insurance benefits.
BUDBURST: COOL CLIMATE WINES
Travel Briefs Solo waivers
PARTICIPATING WINERIES FOR 2026 Attwoods Wines (at Mount Monument) Lyons Will Estate Boulder Fields Wines (at Mount Monument) Cleveland Estate Cold Acre (at Hanging Rock) Curly Flat Double Oaks Estate Granite Hills Hanging Rock Winery Hesket Estate Hunter-Gatherer Winery Kyneton Ridge Lane’s End (at Wilimee) Limestone Track (at Kyneton Ridge) Merth (at Kyneton Ridge) Midhill Vineyard Mount Monument Winery Mount Towrong North Wines (at Hunter Gatherer) Northern Hope WInery (at Wilimee) Paramoor Winery Parkside Winery Passing Clouds (at Paramoor) Pirio Shadowfax Wines (at Paramoor) Wilimee
■ A mounting wave of solo travellers are turning to small ship journeys to enjoy the freedom, security convenience and self-discovery that boutique cruises offer. Exploring the world from the comfort and security of a smaller ship allows single guests to share experiences with other like-minded guests while also providing the privacy of their own cabin. With that in mind, Australian boutique cruise specialist, Cruise Traveller, is offering a selection of luxury Ponant cruise and stay packages in Europe and the Pacific next year that have no solo supplements on the cruises, saving single travellers thousands of dollars. One of the packages is a 17night, all-inclusive ‘Summer Escape’ holiday in July, 2027, that traces the coastline of western Europe all the way from the coastal villages of Norway to the golden beaches of Portugal. The journey begins on July 16, 2027.
■ What started as a local celebration for wine producers to welcome the arrival of Spring, has grown into a landmark regional food and wine festival. Now a diary date on every wine lover’s calendar, Budburst Festival returns this Spring and is proud to celebrate 35 years of showcasing the cool climate wines of the Macedon Ranges to visitors from both near and far. With just a handful of wineries in the early days, Budburst 2026 boasts a packed two-day festival program across November 14-15, with events featuring 26 winemakers, hosted by 15+ venues across the Macedon Ranges region. For locals and visitors alike, Budburst weekend is a rare chance to sample many artisanal producers who don’t usually open their doors to the public. These smaller producers join forces with iconic cellar doors to showcase their wines, which are matched with an incredible range of delicious food, eclectic music and art throughout the weekend. Families are welcome and well catered for, with space for kids to
explore, whilst their parents relax and enjoy the views. There is literally something for everyone! This year, Budburst is excited to welcome back Curly Flat to the festival and introduce new producers Boulder Fields, Limestone Track and Pirio to the lineup, who will stand alongside old favourites like Granite Hills, Hanging Rock and Midhill Vineyard who have been here from the beginning. Festival hours run from 10am to 5pm on both Saturday and Sunday, with tastings, curated food menus, live entertainment and the chance to chat directly with the winemakers at every stop. Full information on individual winery offerings over the weekend are online. Budburst is accessible to all, family friendly and has easy access to the region via V-Line train services to Woodend Station where festival visitors can connect to designated Budburst Bus Routes. Alternatively, visitors can forge their own path using the Budburst Festival Passport as their guide.Wonderful memories and discoveries await.
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Places To Go
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2026
Bush Telegraph Rural Aid shines light ■ Rural Aid is taking Australians into regional communities across the Hunter, northern NSW and southern Queensland, sharing the stories of farmers, the challenges they face and the strength of the communities that support them. Rural Aid was this month on the ground across the Hunter, northern NSW and southern Queensland, continuing the support it has provided to farming communities over many months. There were hay drops, water and water tank deliveries, community visits and opportunities to share farmers’ stories and highlight the challenges they face. While recent rain has brought welcome relief and renewed hope to some farming communities, conditions remain mixed across regional Australia. Some areas continue to grapple with the effects of prolonged dry conditions, while others have experienced flash flooding. At the same time, rising fuel prices and the cost of keeping livestock fed and watered continue to put pressure on farm businesses. The week will share these varied experiences, highlighting the challenges farmers face and the support they need. Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the week was an opportunity to hear directly from farmers and share their experiences with a wider audience. “Every farmer has a story to tell, and those stories help Australians understand the realities of life on the land, the challenges people face and what keeps them going,” Mr Warlters said. “Recent rain has brought welcome relief and renewed hope for many, but the impact of a prolonged dry period doesn’t disappear overnight. Every region and farming operation is different, and our role is to listen, understand what farmers need and provide practical support as they navigate changing conditions.wellbeing services, and community development programs.
TRUCK WASH FUNDS: WIN FOR FARMERS ■ The Victorian Farmers Federation has welcomed a $5.2 million investment in regional truck wash upgrades, alongside funding for critical livestock biosecurity projects, including VFF Stock Sense and the new Farm Access Credential project. VFF Vice-President Scott Young welcomed the announcement from Agriculture Victoria on behalf of the Livestock Industry Biosecurity Funds. “The VFF has been directly calling for action on regional truck washes for a long time, so this is a positive start with industry taking the lead and investing producer’s own levies into this critical infrastructure.” “We are calling on all political parties to back Victorian farmers who have shown they will invest in this critical infrastructure, now we want all political parties to commit to supporting and implementing these upgrades.” “Livestock trucks move animals across Victoria, and without adequate cleaning facilities, there’s a massive risk spreading disease between farms, saleyards and processing facilities.” “Prevention is always better than dealing with the consequences of a disease outbreak, which could be incredibly costly for farmers and the broader livestock industry. This is money well spent and a significant investment in Victoria’s biosecurity safety net,” Mr Young said. The VFF also welcomed funding for key livestock biosecurity projects under the 2026 Livestock Biosecurity Funds Grant Program, including: ■ VFF Stock Sense – $415,000: Helping livestock owners, particularly peri-urban landholders, improve animal health, welfare, traceability and biosecurity. ■ Farm Access Credential – $638,900: Developing accredited biosecurity training for non-agricultural workers entering farms
● Scott Young, VFF
Whiparound Margins pressure ■ Australian crop margins remain under pressure heading into 2027, although strong yields across southern and western Australia are providing some relief, Rabobank says in a recentlyreleased global report. In its Field Crop Margin Outlook 2027, the agribusiness bank’s Rabo Research division says a global recovery in crop margins is expected to be “delayed and uneven” through 2027, with ample world supplies set to limit sustained price gains for grains and oilseeds, while fertiliser and crop protection costs are forecast to rise again. “This combination leaves limited scope for broad-based improvements in profitability,” the report says. RaboResearch notes margin “outcomes will diverge by crop and region”. For Australian crop margins, the report says, the 2027 outlook remains challenging. Elevated fertiliser, diesel and freight costs are expected to continue to keep margins compressed, while El Niño could weaken seasonal prospects in eastern Australia. However, favourable conditions across much of southern and western Australia should partly offset margin pressure. Report co-author, RaboResearch agriculture analyst Oskar Mitchell said strong yield prospects for crops in Victoria and South Australia – together with above-average production in Western Australia – should spread elevated variable costs over larger volumes. However, abundant local supply may weigh on farmgate prices and limit the margin benefit of higher yields, Mr Mitchell noted. “In Queensland and northern New South Wales, below-average rainfall and weaker yield prospects leave margins more exposed to high input costs and may influence next season’s crop mix,” he said.
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Victorian Rural News
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Places To Go
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Places To Go
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NEW BOOK TO BE LAUNCHED ON NOV. 12 AT THE SHRINE OF REMEMBRANCE
THE DIGGER’S DIARY
■ The Digger in question is Corporal Claude Nuttall MM who served in France during World War One with the 23rd Infantry Battalion. Claude was a Melbourne boy, who lived on Charman Road in Cheltenham. The book recounts my 22-year quest to discover the fate of a young infantryman from Cheltenham called Corporal Claude Nuttall MM, whose WWI pocket diary was discovered on an English rubbish tip in 1965. The diary was offered to me in 1996 for an exhibition on the Great War at Dudley Museum in the English Midlands, where I was the curator. The diary described Claude’s life on the battlefields of France. He had been decorated for heroism by George V, wounded on the Somme and sent to England to recover in hospital. There he had met and married an English girl before being sent back to the trenches a month later. His diary entries ended abruptly in August 1918, but bloodstains and a bullet hole suggested an ominous fate. The Digger’s Diary is a compelling curatorial detective story.
• A compelling true story of a First World War soldier, brought to life through a rediscovered wartime diary — combining military history with deeply human storytelling. • A unique hook, based around the discovery of a bullet-pierced WW1 diary on a rubbish tip, creating a compelling entry point into the story. • Blends frontline WWI experience with a modern-day investigation, creating a dual narrative that is both engaging and highly readable. • Appeals to both military history readers and general nonfiction audiences, with strong crossover into book club and narrative nonfiction markets. • Themes of courage, memory, love and rediscovery place the book alongside bestselling “lost story” narratives that continue to perform strongly in retail. • Strong seasonal and evergreen relevance, particularly around Remembrance commemorations.
It traces my decades-long search for answers - a journey that took me from the English Black Country to the battlefields of northern France and on to Claude’s homeland of Australia. What I discovered was a heartrending tale of faith, love, resilience and unimaginable courage. The book is also a tribute to the cherished items in our lives. Items that have little intrinsic worth but which are utterly priceless. In the case of Claude Nuttall;s diary, a relic that would resurrect his spirit and elevate him from total obscurity to veneration by the people of northern France. The Digger’s Diary will be on general sale from October 27, and I will be launching the book at Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance on November 12. I will be in Melbourne from November 10-30.
Colin Reid Find out more about the book at my website:
www.theheritageman.com
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Health
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Observations G&S Christmas Carol
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‘39 STEPS’ AT STRATHMORE
● Jenny Wakefield, James Douglas, Shirin Albert, Elena Griffiths. Photo: Robin Halls. ■ For those who love the Dickens classic story A Christmas Carol and have a penchant for Gilbert and Sullivan, then Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria has an ideal show. Called A Gilbert and Sullivan Christmas Carol, this Australian premiere is a fun adaptation of the Dickens story but with the twist of using music from Gilbert and Sullivan operas, with clever new lyrics from Gayden Wren. And Wren has some impressive credentials, being the Arts Editor of the New York Times and a passionate G & S fan. The show includes music from G & S classics The Pirates of Penzance, The Mikado, HMS Pinafore, Iolanthe, The Yeoman of the Guard, Patience and Ruddigore. It features GSOV stars James Douglas and Luke Belle sharing the role of Ebenezer Scrooge, with Jenny Wakefield, Shirin Albert and Elena Griffiths leading a big cast. It is directed by Ben Klein with musical direction by Catherine Bates. Klein is delighted to be working on A Gilbert and Sullivan Christmas Carol. “This show has Dickens’s classic redemption story with panto elements and it’s a G&S jukebox musical,” he says. The show plays at Malvern Theatre Company from November 19-22, then heads to Williamstown Town Hall on December 5, before travelling to Queenscliff Town Hall on December 12 and 13. To book tickets visit gsov.org.au
Julie Houghton
Auditions ■ Beaumaris Theatre: A Child of Science (by Gareth Farr) November 12, 15 and 16 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Candice Mitrousis. Audition bookings: beaumaristheatre.com.au/auditions ■ The Mount Players: The Complete Works of Jane Austen (Abridged) (by Jessica Bedford, Kathryn MacMillan, Charlotte Northeast and Meghan Winch) November 19 at 7pm, November 21 at 11.00am at The Mount Theatre, 56 Smith St., Macedon. Director: Craig Lenaine-Smith. Audition enquiries and bookings: janeaustentmp@ gmail.com ■ Eltham Little Theatre: Our Town (by Thornton Wilder) November 21 at 10am, November 23, 25 at 7pm at 1603 Main Rd., Research. Director: Claire Abagia. Audition bookings and enquiries: director.claire.a@gmail.com ■ Babirra Music Theatre: Guys and Dolls, November 22-26 at the Highfield Rd Uniting Church, 72 Highfield Rd., Canterbury. Age 16+. Director: Richard Perdriau; Musical Director: Marty Macaulay; Choreographer: Amber Orchard. Audition Bookings: trybooking.com/au/event/guysanddolls1673820 ■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: Talking Heads (by Alan Bennett) December 10 at 7.30pm; December 13 at 3.00pm at the Warrandyte Mechanics’ Hall, Cnr Yarra St. and Mitchell Ave., Warrandyte. Director: David Tynan and Lou Phelan. Audition Enquiries Contact: davidtyn@gmail.com 0431572511 ■ Malvern Theatre Company: Grand Horizons (by Bess Wohl) December 14, 16 at 7pm at Malvern Theatre, 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East. Director: George Werther. Audition bookings and enquiries: werther110@gmail.com
Cheryl Threadgold
● The 39 Steps director George Benca (left) with actors Kirsty Taylor, Oscar Mikic, Del Jordan, Jack Lees, Sean Collins, Drew Mason, Kristen Hennessy and Broderick McDonald. (Absent: Sarah Deering) ■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG) presents The 39 Steps from November 12-21 at the Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman St, Strathmore. Written by Patrick Barlow and John Buchan, STAG's production of The 39 Steps is directed by George Benca. The show is described as 'mixing a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, with an added dash of Monty Python - and you have the intriguing, thrilling, riotous and unmissable comedy.' The story tells of a notorious fugitive and a spellbound blonde from a London music hall, 'hurtling' north by northwest to Scotland's most remote highlands. Will they save Britain from a den of devious spies? A small cast of actors play over 150 characters in this fast-paced tale of an ordinary man on an extraordinarily entertaining mission. Performance Season: November 12 - 21 Venue: Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman St, Strathmore Bookings: stagtheatre.org
Her multi-character interpretation draws inspiration from stagings such as Andrew Scott’s Vanya, unifying predator and prey live on stage in a singular feat that coincides with her 21st anniversary in professional theatre. Performance Dates: November 20-December 12 Previews: 7.30pm, Tuesday-Saturday; 6:30pm Monday In Season: 7.30pm, Tuesday-Saturday; 6:30pm, Monday; 2pm, Saturday Time to Talk: 7.30pm, Tuesday 1 December Venue: Malthouse's Merlyn Theatre Bookings: malthousetheatre.com.au
Cheryl Threadgold
Cheryl Threadgold
All About Eve ■ The Australian premiere of Ivo van Hove’s West End stage adaptation of All About Eve will play from November 20December 12 at Malthouse’s Merlyn Theatre. Based on Mary Orr’s The Wisdom of Eve and Joseph L. Mankiewicz’s cinematic masterpiece and directed by Dean Bryant, the production's ensemble cast will be led by Christie Whelan Browne in a dual role performance. Joining Whelan Browne in the cast is Brent Hill (Hamilton, School of Rock), Kevin Hofbauer (MTC’s Macbeth, Malthouse Theatre’s Hour of the Wolf), Evelyn Krape (MTC’s Uncle Vanya), Christina O'Neill (MTC’s My Brilliant Career, Malthouse Theatre’s Hour of the Wolf), newcomer Tea Moma, and Junior Nyong’o, who last year starred opposite his sister, Academy Award-winner Lupita Nyong’o, in The Public Theatre’s Shakespeare in the Park season of Twelfth Night. The drama unfolds inside a dressing room in New York City, as Broadway legend Margo Channing is introduced to her biggest fan, Eve Harrington. Margo is the undisputed queen of the theatre, and Eve is happy to serve in whatever small way she can. But Margo knows something all women in her position do: danger lurks everywhere, and a society that lifts you up is just as eager to tear you back down. Whelan Browne performs the dual roles of Margo and Eve - famously originated on screen by Bette Davis and Anne Baxter and later played by Gillian Anderson and Lily James in van Hove’s West End production.
● Christie Whelan Browne in All About Eve. Photo: Nicole Reed
Morning Melodies ■ Arts Centre Melbourne’s daytime music program Morning Melodies returns in 2027 with a star-powered lineup of talent including David Hobson and Colin Lane, Jemma Rix, Christie Whelan Browne, The 60 Four and Paulini along with future stars of the stage from The Australian Ballet School and Victorian College of the Arts. These established stars and emerging talent will entertain audiences within Hamer Hall, Australia's multi-level concert venue.
Local Theatre Shows ■ Moonshoes Productions: The 25 th Annual Putnum County Spelling Bee Until November 14 at the TLC Church, Bayswater. Director: Liv Mcilfatrick; Musical Director: Zac Jones. Bookings: Trybooking. ■ Brighton Theatre Company: A Simple Act of Kindness (by Ross Mueller) Until November 21 at Brighton Theatre, Carpenter St., Brighton. Director: Blake Stringer. Bookings: brightontheatre company.com.au ■ Williamstown Musical Theatre: & Juliet. Until November 21 at Altona Theatre, 115 Civic Pde, Altona. Director: Joel Anderson; Musical Director: Jem Sherwill; Choreographer: Dylan Henry. Bookings: wmtc.org.au ■ Beaumaris Theatre: Georgy Girl the Musical. Until November 21 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Debbie Keyt; Musical Director: Rhonda Vaughan; Choreographer: Camilla Klesman. Bookings: beaumaristheatre.com.au ■ Peridot Theatre Company: Love in Translation November 12 – 15 at the Clayton Community Centre. Three OneAct plays, one theme. Love Letters by A.R. Gurney (directed by Steve McPhail), Ferris Wheel by Mary Miller (directed by Robyn Kelly), Mary Just Broke Up With This Guy by Garth Wingfield (directed by Kate Lawson). Bookings: peridot.sales.ticketsearch. com/sales/sales ■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): 39 Steps (by Patrick Barlow and John Buchan) November 12 – 21 at the Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman St, Strathmore. Director: George Benca. Bookings: stagtheatre.org ■ The 1812 Theatre: A Murder is Announced (Agatha Christie) November 12–December 5 at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Steve Saul. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au ■ Frankston Theatre Group: Jimmie the Beatle (Written and Directed by Tim Byron) November 20 – December 6 at the Mt Eliza Community Hall, 90-100 Canadian Bay Rd, Mount Eliza. Bookings: frankstontheatregroup.org.au/ events/jimmie-the-beatle ■ Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria: A G. and S. Christmas Carol, November 19-22 at Malvern Theatre, 29 Burke Rd., Malvern. Bookings: Trybooking ■ The Basin Theatre Group: The Railway Children (Adapted by Jason Triggs based on the novel by Edith Nesbit) November 26 to December 6 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Jason Triggs. Bookings: thebasintheatre.au ■ OSMaD: Titanic the Musical December 3–12 at the Geoffrey McComas Theatre, Scotch College, Hawthorn. Director: Penn Valk; Musical Director: Simon D’Aquino; Choreographer; Cassie Pennecuik. Bookings: osmad.com.au ■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Breaking Down All the Walls (Written and directed by Nicholas Bufalo) December 312 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Bookings: mordialloctheatrecompany.com.au ■ HTC Youth:The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (by Ryan Purdey and Erich Fordham) December 4-12 at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Directors: Ryan Purdey and Morgan ThomasConnor. Bookings: htc.org.au ■ PLOS Musical Productions: Grease December 31- January 10 at the Frankston Performing Arts Centre, Davey St., Frankston. Director: Brad Fischer; Musical Directors: Sue Fletcher and Malcom Huddle; Choreographers: Hayley Moseley and Cassie Pennicuik. Bookings: plos.asn.au ■ Fab Nobs Theatre: Harriet Heartfelt and the Hollywood Heist (Book by Kim Edwards: Music by Sally McKenze) January 9 – 17 at 33 Industry Place, Bayswater. Director: Steve McKenzie; Choreography: Alice Clapperton; Musical Direction: Sally McKenzie. Bookings: fabnobstheatre.com.au/ ■ Encore Theatre Company: Pinocchio the Pantomime (written by Limelight Scripts) January 14-23 at the Clayton Theatrette, Cooke St., Clayton. Directed: Christine Simmonds. Bookings: encoretheatre.com.au ■ Mornington Peninsula Theatre Company (MPTC) The Tempest (by William Shakespeare) January 19 – 24 (open air) in the Bellamy Hall Theatre Courtyard, Octavia St., Mornington. Director: Jonty Reason. Bookings: mptc.net.au
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Local People Maisky in Recital
● Cellist Mischa Maisky. Photo: Bernard Rosenberg
Citizen’s arrest ■ Williamstown Uniform Police have charged a man following an incident at a shopping centre on Douglas Pde. Police will allege a man was sitting on the floor in the foyer of the shopping centre entry, when he lunged at, and assaulted, a 63-year-old man about 8.15am. The pair are not known to one another, and police will allege the incident was unprovoked. Members of the public and an off-duty police officer intervened and restrained a 40-yearold man. The victim, a 63-year- old Williamstown man, suffered facial injuries and was to seek medical treatment. The 40-year-old man, of no fixed place of address, has been charged with: ■ Intentionally cause injury ■ Recklessly cause injury ■ Assault by kicking ■ Affray ■ Contravene a court order ■ Commit indictable offence whilst on bail He is expected to appear before a bail and remand court on Saturday (Nov. 7).
Illicit tobacco ■ Cardinia Crime Investigation Unit detectives have arrested two people as part of an investigation into the sale and storage of illicit tobacco in Lang Lang. Detectives executed simultaneous search warrants at commercial properties on Westernport Rd and Cambridge St. As part of the investigation, investigators seized commercial quantities of loose tobacco, cigarettes and vapes, as well as $10,625 cash being allegedly carried by a 45-year-old man and stored inside a vehicle. An illegal firework was also located at the Cambridge St address. A 45-year-old Tarneit man has been charged with supply of a commercial quantity of illicit tobacco, deal with property suspected to be proceeds of crime and drive whilst suspended. He was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on April 30. The 45-year-old Lang Lang woman was charged with the supply of a commercial quantity of illicit tobacco. She was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on April 22. The 49-year-old Lang Lang man was interviewed and is expected to be charged on summons in relation to unlawful possession of an explosive (firework).
Pizza crash ■ A woman is expected to be charged on summons after she crashed into a pizza store in South Melbourne. Police were called to the scene, at the intersection of Kings Way and Park St, following reports the driver of a BMW
sedan had lost control and crashed into a pizza store about 12.50am on Thursday (Nov. 5). The 24-year-old woman from The Patch wasn’t injured and no one was inside the store, which was extensively damaged. Officers spoke with the woman who returned a positive roadside drug test for methylamphetamine. The woman, who was also wanted in relation to an outstanding warrant, is expected to be charged in relation to drug driving and possessing a drug of dependence, after a quantity of cannabis was uncovered.
Hadfield shooting ■ Armed Crime Squad detectives are appealing for public assistance as they investigate the circumstances surrounding a non-fatal shooting in Hadfield last Tuesday morning (Nov. 3). Police were called to reports several shots were fired into a house on Lockley St about 4.10am. Nine people were inside the property at the time of the incident. It is understood further shots were fired in the street before a white SUV was seen leaving the area. An 18-year-old Sunbury man self-presented at a hospital with a gunshot wound to the upper body a short time later. Police were later called to reports of a suspicious vehicle on Chapman St in Glenroy about 9.50am. Bullet holes were found on the white Toyota Kluger, which had stolen plates. Police believe the incident was targeted and the parties involved are known to each other. Detectives are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the incidents and whether they are linked.
Business torched ■ Arson and Explosives Squad detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fire at a motorsport business in Springvale on Tuesday (Nov. 3). Emergency services were called following reports of the fire at the Aspen Circuit premises just before midnight. The fire, which is being treated as suspicious, significantly damaged the property. Detectives will investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire and whether it is linked to a recent incident in the vicinity of the business where shots were fired from one vehicle towards another on Monday, October 26. An arson chemist and detectives were to attend the scene on Wednesday (Nov. 4). Anyone who witnessed the incident or with dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
■ The cello, it is said, is the most akin to the human voice and this recital by Mischa Maisky, accompanied by his daughter Lily Maisky on piano, took me back to the days of my singing lessons as an aspiring baritone. Alas, I did not have the fluency or the control so eloquently demonstrated during this performance. The touch and differentiation between the pianissimo and forte, the discourse between the cello and the piano and the expressive interpretation was, at times, transportive. This might have been because of the recollection of my vain attempts at singing songs from Schumann’s, Dichterliebe. Had I been acquainted then with Maisky’s work, I might have realiSed what was needed by way of interpretation. What does come to mind is just how much more flexible the cello is at times than the human voice. A counterpoint to the traditional works by Mendelssohn and Schubert was the Shostakovich. This highlighted the range of the cello. The plucking of strings and glissando moments make for greater diversity but, curiously, the cello seems to want to come back to the more fluid resonance as if that were its true voice. And of course, there are the melodies that seem to be eternal. Rachmaninoff’s Vocalise, speaks still about elegance and emotion. The cello’s articulation is not in words but in the breath behind those words that Maisky brings to the fore in his playing.
Review by David McLean
Melbournewide Burst into flames ■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating after a car was split in two and burst into flames in Keysborough on Wednesday (Nov. 4). Emergency services were called to the scene on Cheltenham Rd, near Bracknell St, following reports a vehicle had crashed into a pole about 12.50am. The vehicle, which was split into two, burst into flames. A 26-year-old Frankston man and a 21-year-old Frankston man were taken to hospital with serious injuries. The body of a 19-year-old Clyde North man was found inside the vehicle once the fire was extinguished. Detectives are following up reports the vehicle was seen travelling at speed prior to the crash. Traffic diversions remained in place well into the morning, in the vicinity of Cheltenham and Chandler Rds, while MCIU detectives processed the scene.
Armed robbery ■ Mill Park Divisional Response Unit officers arrested a 22-year-old man after he allegedly assaulted and robbed a man of $3000 cash in Lalor. It is alleged a 25-year-old man was approached and demanded to handover cash by a 22-year-old man in an alleyway off David St about 1pm on Sunday, November 1. The victim refused to hand over the cash before he was allegedly punched in the head numerous times with what is believed to be knuckle dusters. The 25year-old victim was transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A Thomastown man was direct presented to the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court where he was remanded in custody to appear on January 27.
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HEY THERE, GEORGY GIRL Aussie Legends ■ Eddie James will sing the hits of John Farnham, Jimmy Barnes, John Paul Young, Peter Allen and a host of other Aussie favourites when he presents his morning melodies show Aussie Legends. At Officer Public Hall. Monday, November 16 at 10.30am. Admission $15, cash at door. Bookings 0428 712 783
Way Back When ■ Way Back When is a nostalgic celebration of the great entertainers, timeless songs and two crooners trying to “make it”. Blending the sophistication of classic crooning with a fresh contemporary sound, Wade Morgan and Jon Graham take listeners on a musical journey back to an era of unforgettable melodies, meaningful lyrics and legendary performers. Available for listening on all platforms.
Newport Carols ■ The Newport Folk Club is once again hosting the annual Carols on the Green event. This is a community event for families to enjoy. This year's program will include local performers, the carols orchestra, and the choir along with an open invitation to join in the carol singing. Saturday, December 5, 6pm-8pm. Paine Reserve, Mason St, Newport. An alcohol free event.
■ Dedicated hard work has resulted in a double dream coming true for talented Melbourne-based singer, performer, actor and vocal coach Stephanie Angelini. Firstly, she is starring in her dream role portraying Judith Durham in Georgy Girl - The Seekers Musical , being presented by Beaumaris Theatre. Secondly, the show's complete season is sold out with a waiting list. Stephanie says: "It's truly exciting and a thrill to know we'll be performing to a full house every show. Every performer's dream." The sell-out season is, however, not surprising to Stephanie, who points out that “The Seekers hold a pivotal and timeless place in our Australian and international music scene and are still very much adored and loved by many all over the world." For over 15 years, Stephanie has performed as a soloist and band vocalist at various public and private events, and released her own original music, travelling to Los Angeles to record her debut album Life Lessons. She is also founding director and vocal coach at the Angelini Vocal Academy. Stephanie regards it as a ‘true honour’ to be bringing one of her musical icons to life. Congratulations, Stephanie.
Cheryl Threadgold
The Great Gatsby
● Stephanie Angelini (Judith Durham) in Georgy Girl The Seekers Musical. Photo: Tim Tselepis
● Adventure Island
■ Champagne. Scandal. Spectacular excess. The Jazz Age is coming to Melbourne. Her Majesty's Theatre will be transformed into the intoxicating world of the Roaring Twenties as The Great Gatsby arrives from Friday, January 22. This audacious reimagining of F. Scott Fitzgerald's literary masterpiece promises a night of theatrical spectacle, glamour and romance, directed by acclaimed theatre maker Nick Skubij (Frankenstein, Macbeth, The Lovers). Set against the backdrop of New York in 1922, The Great Gatsby follows the mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby, whose legendary parties attract the city's most fashionable, wealthy and notorious. Love comes at a price, wealth is no guarantee of happiness and the most dazzling parties conceal the darkest secrets. Presented by Shake & Stir Theatre Co in association with Evolution Productions and PowerArts. Originally produced by Shake & Stir Theatre Co and Queensland Theatre Company.
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■ One of the great things about writing this column is that I enjoy writing about people that many of our readers may have forgotten about over the years. To be able to bring back the memories is very rewarding and it is nice to remember performers who were a part of our lives. I can safely say that the first time I recall seeing Denzil Howson on television was as ‘Professor Nitwitty’ on The Happy Show on GTV 9 in the early days of television. He was a regular performer on the children’s progra with Happy Hammond, Ron Blaskett and Gerry Gee, Susan Gaye Anderson, Elaine McKenna, Bernard the Magician, Ernie Carroll and many others. During his career Denzil became an actor, writer, director and producer in radio, television, film and theatre. Denzil Edward Howson was born in 1918 in the Melbourne suburb of Glenferrie. His father had been an engineer with the PMG and in 1938 young Denzil attended the RMIT with the view to becoming a radio engineer. Denzil served in the army during the Second War World but became ill and was sent to the Heidelberg Military Hospital where he worked in Army education. Denzil spent four years at radio station 3YB in Warrnambool where he produced many programs. He returned to Melbourne where he began reading The Argus news services and was heard on several radio stations. In 1951 Denzil married Dorothy
Whatever Happened to ... Denzil Howson
By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM
Bradshaw and they visited England in 1952 where he studied television techniques. After the arrival of their son Paul in 1954 they finally settled in their family home in Malvern. Their daughter Clare was born in 1956 and at that time Denzil became involved in the live Olympic Games telecasts as a director and cameraman. He became an Assistant Program Director at GTV9 and spent many happy years at the Richmond television station. Denzil was versatile and worked as a producer on the famous Christmas pantomime shows. Ron Blaskett recalled in his book You, Me and Gerry Gee that Denzil produced the film series The Adventures of Gerry Gee and in 1991 they were both called into
● Denzil Howson Channel 9 to be told that the “lost episodes” had been found in the archives and thankfully the series has now been preserved. They also produced a series titled Around the World with Gerry Gee and toured the world with their families’ filming scenes for the show. Denzil moved onto producing some of the daytime programs on Channel Nine such as Thursday at One and worked with the famous English film star Jessie Matthews when she took over the show
from Evie Hayes. He also wrote comedy for In Melbourne Tonight and other progras. When he left Channel Nine in 1963 Denzil worked at AMV4 Albury and STW9 Perth. He was an accomplished actor and over the years appeared in many guest roles in Australian shows such as Homicide, Division 4, Matlock Police, The Sullivans, Prisoner, A Country Practice and Neighbours. He was in the play Amadeus for the Melbourne Theatre Company and in 1986 played a role in the musical, Me and My Girl. Denzil also worked for a marketing company. In his later years he was a respected adjudicator at Malvern Theatre Company. I had met Denzil several times and the last time I saw him was at the launch of the marvellous book on The Tivoli by Frank van Straten. I was surprised that he even remembered my name. Many people have told me that Denzil was a genuine, friendly person and a real gentleman. Denzil Howson passed away in 2005 at the age of 87.
Kevin Trask Kevin can be heard on 3AW The Time Tunnel - Remember When Sundays at 10.10pm with Simon Owens and Andrew McLaren. And on 96.5 FM That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon. www.innerfm.org.au
ROSS O’MEARA’S WORK ON SHOW AT BENALLA Showbiz Extra Peninsula Summer Music Festival
Ross O’Meara: Coloured Grounds With his practice Ross O’Meara explores line and colour, consistently producing captivating works as part of an ongoing series. The abstracted pieces are reminiscent of long grass or reeds, the layers consisting of both dense and translucent like work., The elegant, whimsical compositions possess soft energy and speak too slow meditative movement. Exhibition closes November 30. ★ Birds in focus - Bill Harris A striking collection of framed and unframed photographs by Bill Harris. Shaped by decades behind the lens and a passion for birds in the wild, these finely printed images invite you to pause and marvel at Australia’s remarkable birdlife. Exhibition closes November 30. Benalla Art Gallery Botanic Gardens Bridge St, Benalla
Moorabbin
● Peninsula Summer Music Festival artist Emily Sun.
■ The 2027 Peninsula Summer Music Festival will be held from Saturday, January 2 to Sunday, January 10 across the Mornington Peninsula. Festival artists include Emily Sun (violin), Aura Go, Sandy Evans, Andrea Keller, Charlotte Miles, Inventi Ensemble, Fiasco Quartet and Nightingale Trio. The first notes of the 2027 Peninsula Summer Music Festival will rise on Saturday, January 2, from the gardens of St John’s Anglican Church in Flinders. Over nine summer days and nights, festival audiences will revel in the sounds of baroque, jazz and ensemble music with 14 musical events in idyllic settings throughout the picturesque Mornington Peninsula. Festival Directors Ben Opie and Melissa Doecke have brought together a stellar line up that showcases many of Australia’s most-celebrated instrumentalists. “This year’s Peninsula Summer Music Festival has a distinctly Australian flair with some of our finest musicians returning home or joining us from around the country to gather on the Mornington Peninsula for what promises to be an unforgettable festival,” they said. “The program features unique combinations of musical talents in rare one-off festival collaborations.” “We’re thrilled to showcase the extraordinary talent of Australian women in music, including international violin superstar and our 2027 Festival Artist Emily Sun, who will join acclaimed pianist Aura Go for two concerts at Moorooduc Estate, before taking centre stage at the Festival Gala, and joining an incredible line up of female musicians for Schubert’s The Trout.” Peninsula Summer Music Festival dates: January 2-10. Tickets on sale now. Visit peninsulafestival.com.au
Cheryl Threadgold
Salvage - Josh Deane Discouraged by the modern culture of fast fashion and excessive waste Josh views upcycling not only as a sustainable trend, but as a spiritual connection to his ancestors who lived with a fundamental philosophy of resourcefulness and never allowed any material go to waste. By bringing new life into discarded denim and leather, Josh transforms these reclaimed materials into ‘wearable art’ – a term that defines both the one-of-a-kind jackets featured in the show and his current made-to-order fashion collection. The exhibition creates a powerful visual dialogue by painting these physical garments with large-scale acrlic and latex polymer paintings models inhabiting pieces. Intentional painting allows the viewer to witness th e garment as both a standalone artifact and a living representative of identity. Exhibition closes Friday November 13. Kingston Arts Centre 979 Nepean Hwy, Moorabbin
Upwey Upwey Archives 2026 Celebrating the unique characters of the Dandenong Ranges, and inspired by the Archibald Prize, the Upwey Archives is an annual community portrait event organised by Upwey Community Group, in partnership with Burrinja Cultural Centre and funded through Yarra Ranges Council. The Archives is a sensational opportunity for artists and aspiring artists of all ages and artistic abilities to create an original artwork featuring a local person that feels significant to them or the Hills community. All artistic mediums suitable for canvas use are are accepted with the exception of photography, digital works or AI generated works which are ineligible for inclusion. A judging panel awards winners in a range of categories prior to the exhibition and prizes are
The Arts With Peter Kemp
officially presented at a special award celebration at Burrinja. This panel is made up of an expert professional artist, a member of the Upwey Community Group and the winner of the previous Archives Open Section. Following the judging, the portraits ae displayed in Main St shops for three weeks, bringing colour and buzz to the town centre. Seeing the paintings displayed brings a huge sense of pride to the whole community snd everyone gets caught uo in the excitement of the event as they try to decide which portrait will be their choice for the Community Favourite Award. Exhibition opens November 12-22. Burrinja Art Gallery 351 Glenfern Rd, Upwey
Peter Kemp
Still, Life ■ A Scottish artist and former Melbourne resident has returned to the city with an exhibition exploring how memories of home change through time, distance and experience. Shaun Devenney opened his solo exhibition Still, Life at Everfresh Studio in Collingwood , featuring 20 paintings created in his hometown of Paisley, near Glasgow, before being transported across the world to Melbourne. The paintings depict ordinary streets, bus stops, buildings and overlooked corners of Paisley, a former industrial town famous for its textile heritage. Rather than presenting the paintings as they were originally made, since arriving in Melbourne, Devenney has been painting over sections, scraping away details, distorting surfaces and, in some instances, removing entire parts of the original images. Some scenes remain recognisable, while others are gradually disappearing. The process reflects how our memories of familiar places are never entirely fixed, with certain details remaining clear while others fade, become exaggerated or change over time. The journey itself becomes part of the artwork, with the paintings undergoing a physical transformation between the place they were created and the place they are exhibited.
Page 48 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, November 11, 2026 www.LocalPaper.com.au
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FRINGE FESTIVAL AWARDS ■ Award winning producern Laura Milke Garner was announced as the 2026 Melbourne Fringe Festival Living Legend at a glittering closing night awards ceremony to end Melbourne’s largest celebration of independent arts. Best In Category Awards Best Cabaret: Dean, Don't Dance! Created and performed by Dean Nash Best Circus: The Resume Gap Performed by Elle Diablo Best Comedy: Nosebleeds. Created by Holly Bohmer, Mario Hannah, Taylor Griffiths Best Dance and Physical Theatre: We wanna have a lot of forks in a backpack. Created and performed by Lola Borroni and Hannah Vella Best Experimental: The Enormous Radio . Created by Roslyn Oades and Bob Scott Best Kids: Coach Mon's Baby Wonderland . Created and performed by Monique Warren Best Music: Nornir. Created by Freya Schack-Arnott Best Theatre: Heir. Written by Candice D'Arcy Best Visual Arts and Film: PostTraumatic Whimsy. Artist Rick Harwood Best Words and Ideas: Holding the VA. Written and directed by Fulisia Asalemo Tofete ★ Artist Development Awards Artform Shaker Award Supported by Theatre Network Australia: Pigskin. Created and performed by Lana Rosalea Change Maker Award Supported by Theatre Network Australia. Sahra Davoudi, Am I Who? x 2 Best Emerging Producer Award Supported by Milke. Flynn Smeaton, Dirt Church. Best Emerging Indigenous Artist Award. Georgia Boseley, Weaving the Everywhen Best Emerging LGBTIQA+ Artist Award. Supported by the Victorian Pride Centre. Sunny Youngsmith, Cabin Pressure Monash Knowledge Exchange Award. Supported by Monash’s Faculty of Arts and School of Languages, Literatures, Cultures and Linguistics. The Loch of Love Starring Puffling Comedy New Work Award Supported by Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Can I Be Honest? Created and performed by Fin McLachlan Headroom Award Supported by Rising. We wanna have a lot of forks in a backpack. Created and performed by Lola Borroni and Hannah Vella Showcase Ready Award Supported by The Victorian Association of Performing Arts Centres. The Portrait. Created and directed by Clare Bartholomew Outstanding Newcomer. Supported by Auspicious Arts Projects. Bodymind. Created by Max Bower Outstanding Production Design Supported by Deakin University. Red. Created and performed by Rollercoaster Theatre Geelong Creative Development Award Supported by Geelong Arts Centre. Holding the VA . Written and directed by Fulisia Asalemo Tofete New Writing Award Supported by Melbourne Theatre Company. The Carrot Show. Created by Hayley Edwards ★ 2026 Touring Awards Adelaide Touring Award Supported by Adelaide Fringe. Mrs Lovett’s Famous Meat Pies Grand Reopening Extravaganza. Created and performed by Elliot Wood Brisbane Touring Award Supported by Brisbane Comedy Festival. Mel McGlensey is Mucking Around . Created by Mel McGlensey
y,
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Rourke’s Reviews
(Vanya) directs this drama exploring ambition, identity and the high price of success, brought to life with a live string quartet. The production is Josh O’Connor’s first stage role since he played Romeo in the National Theatre’s filmed Romeo and Juliet in 2021, and he stars alongside Hayley Squires and Daniel Mays. Filmed live at the Almeida Theatre in London to sold-out audiences, Golden Boy will screen in Australian cinemas from November 19. Tickets are on sale now. Distributed by Sharmill Films.
Cheryl Threadgold
Operation: Orfeo
● Laura Milke-Gardner Perth Touring Award Supported by Fringe World Festival. The Portrait . Created and directed by Clare Bartholomew Sydney Touring Award Supported by Sydney Fringe. Hannah Camilleri: Dinner Hannah Show Created and performed by Hannah Camilleri NZ Touring Award Supported by New Zealand Fringe. The Carrot Show. Created by Hayley Edwards NZ Indigenous Exchange Award Supported by New Zealand Fringe. Estuary. Choreography by Ngioka Bunda-Heath Hollywood Fringe Touring Award Supported by Hollywood Fringe. Freidah Will See You Now. Created and performed by Caitlin Duff ★ Special Awards Crowd Pleaser Award (People's Choice). Holding the VA. Written and directed by Fulisia Asalemo Tofete Sound and Technical Excellence Award Supported by Front of House Productions. The Enormous Radio. Created by Roslyn Oades and Bob Scott Venue of the Year Award. Bluestone Church Arts Space Most Accessible Venue Award. The Motley Bauhaus Access and Inclusion Award. Dean, Don't Dance! Created and performed by Dean Nash Best Work by an Emerging Artist. Shell Be Right. Created and performed by Madeleine Gosden Spirit of the Fringe SLUGS. Created by Creepy Boys (S.E. Grummett and Sam Kruger) Director's Choice Break Down Concept by Gregory Lorenzutti
Cheryl Threadgold
Golden Boys ■ Golden Globe winner Josh O’Connor leads the cast in Golden Boy, a searing revival of Clifford Odets’ knockout American classic. Set in 1930s New York at the height of the Great Depression, gifted young violinist Joe Bonaparte is lured by the promise of fame and fortune into the brutal world of professional boxing. As his ambitions grow, he must confront what he’s willing to sacrifice, who he’s willing to become, and how to find his place in a world that demands he choose a side. Olivier Award-winner Sam Yates
■ Arts Centre Melbourne has announced that Operation: Orfeo, a hypnotic depiction of the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, will return to the Ian Potter State Theatre in February, 30 years since its premiere Victorian season in the same venue. Part opera, part visual artwork, it takes audiences on a descent into the underworld in a work of precision and beauty. First performed in Melbourne in 1997 as part of the Melbourne International Arts Festival, Operation:Orfeo reimagines opera through a striking fusion of music, visual art and performance. Arts Centre Melbourne Executive Director, Performing Arts, Melanie Smith said: "We are thrilled to welcome Operation: Orfeo back to the Ian Potter State Theatre, 30 years after its last performance on our stage. “This internationally acclaimed work is a highlight of our 2027 program in the newly refurbished theatre. We look forward to audiences experiencing this powerful and deeply moving fusion of visual art and performance." With 2027 director Marie Dahl maintaining the concept and direction of Kirsten Dehlholm (19452024), it is said to be one of the most internationally celebrated works in Danish theatre history by renowned company Hotel Pro Forma. Featuring the Latvian Radio Choir, the work also presents Ib Michael’s libretto as symphonic a cappella singing, alongside music by Bo Holten, with excerpts from John Cage and Christoph Willibald Gluck. Replacing conventional narrative with a sequence of powerful images, light, and symphonic voice, Operation: Orfeo is arranged like a piece of moving visual art rather than a staged narrative. Performance Dates: February 18 - 20 Venue: Ian Potter State Theatre Duration: 80 minutes. Warnings: This show contains the use of lasers. Age Recommendation: Ages 14+
Cheryl Threadgold
Christie classic ■ Following acclaimed Australian tours of The Mousetrap and And Then There Were None, theatre producer John Frost will bring another Agatha Christie classic to the stage in 2027. Presented in association with Fiery Angel and Agatha Christie Limited, Ken Ludwig’s adaptation of Murder On The Orient Express will open at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre in June 2027, following a successful tour of the UK, Ireland and mainland China. John Frost said: “Agatha Christie is one of the greatest writers of all time, and I’m thrilled to present this wonderful stage adaptation of one of her most celebrated works.”
● Godzilla returns from the depths to create more mayhem in the excellent sequel, Godzilla Minus Zero, now showing in cinemas.
Godzilla Minus Zero ■ (M). 135 minutes. Now showing in cinemas, including IMAX. After Godzilla Minus One took the world by storm in 2023, with its substantial boxoffice success and Oscar win (for Best Visual Effects) surprising many, a direct sequel seemed inevitable. In 2026, we now have that sequel, Godzilla Minus Zero, and there must have been huge pressure on returning VFX designer/writer/director Takashi Yamazaki to deliver the goods. Boy, does he do just that. Set in 1949, two years after the events of the first film, we are immediately shown the new obstacle threatening Japan, an event witnessed by Dr Murakami (Min Tanaka) in the city of Matsumoto. Murakami returns to Tokyo to inform Dr Noda (Hidetaka Yoshioka), who now heads the Disaster Response Bureau, and worried at what is to come, seeks the advice of Koichi Shikishima (Ryunosuke Kamiki), the haunted pilot who managed to defeat Godzilla. Now married to Noriko (Minami Hamabe), the two have settled into a quieter life, looking after young Akiko (Sae Nagatani). Noriko helps good friend Sumiko (Sakura Ando) take care of war orphans, and is worried about Koichi putting his life in danger again. Other returning characters include Seiji (Kuranosuke Sasaki), Shiro (Yuki Yamada), Tachibana (Munetaka Aoki) and Captain Hotta (Miou Tanaka). A crucial new addition to the group is Dr Aoyama (Masami Nagasawa), a meteorologist whose incredible expertise will help shape how this underdog group face seemingly insurmountable
odds. Yamazaki did a terrific job on Godzilla Minus One, combining monster spectacle with genuine human drama, and was able to look at war trauma and questionable government decisions made during global conflict (he also critiqued the kamikaze project in the underrated, somewhat misunderstood 2013 drama, The Eternal Zero), the latter a tricky feat for Japanese filmmakers, as there are consequences for doing so. Though a number of the themes explored here are similar, there are interesting new elements, especially examining the effects nuclear radiation had on civilians, the upping of nuclear ‘creations’, leading to more death and destruction, and the post-war presence of the US on home soil (even if all the American performances are shaky at best). The human factor still works, but this time Yamazaki increases the scale of key setpieces, which are thunderously immersive on the big screen (particularly IMAX). His experience as a visual effect designer is on full display, and the results are jaw-dropping. The Japanese cast all acquit themselves convincingly, except for young Nagatani, who is once more jarringly awkward (the way you can see her being coached offscreen is distracting). Off course, that famous music score turns up multiple times. Godzilla Minus Zero is an exceptional follow-up to its outstanding predecessor (and for those who haven’t seen it, the 2016 entry, Shin Godzilla, is also must-see viewing), and should be seen on the biggest screen possible. One feels this will be nominated in a lot more categories at next year’s Academy Awards. RATING - ****½
Aaron Rourke
The Local Paper - Wednesday, November 11, 2026 - Page 49
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POINT WELL TAKEN IN THEC.F. CUP Orr Stakes
■ Melbourne Cup Day 2026 was full of favourites at fabulous Flemington. Robbie Williams performed his hit songs, and five of the 10 races were won by the most popular runner in betting. Even the Melbourne Cup itself was taken out by the shortest priced horse in the race. Despite huge backing for Hopewell Rock ($7.50) the punters kept coming for Point Of Law ($7 fav.) and the horse bred by King Charles III rewarded them royally. Just one month earlier, Point Of Law arrived at the Werribee International Horse Centre as part of the first of two shipments of European racehorses coming for the Cup. At the time, he was the horse highlighted in our Cup Countdown column on the Observer Racing page when at big odds in early markets. This was the October 7 edition of The Local Paper in which it was written: “While less fancied in Melbourne Cup betting than many of his counterparts, one horse now here may come into calculations during the next 27 days: Point Of Law.” It was suggested he might run in a race like the Geelong Cup in order to qualify for a start in the Melbourne Cup. That he did, impressing most onlookers with his keenness and ability to sustain a high speed. It was a hard-fought win, earning him a golden ticket into the race that stops the nation. The handicapper thought enough of that victory to impose a two kilograms weight penalty for the Melbourne Cup, but as it happened, that wasn’t nearly enough.
● Point of Law. Racing Photos.
Rod Basto
How the race was run ■ Soon after the start, jockey Ethan Brown was able to settle Point Of Law midfield one off the fence, before the field strung out as they left the straight and he ended up well back. The front-runner Royal Supremacy, despite not going as quickly as what it may have appeared, was around 15 lengths ahead of the second horse with 1000 metres to go. At the 400 metres mark, it was obvious the tearaway leader’s margin was quickly being diminished. So You Are, Juja Kibo and Zahrann were closest of the chasers with 300 metres left to run. By the time they reached the 200 metres, Point Of Law could be seen “coming like a shot out of a gun”, as the late racecaller Bert Bryant would say. Shortly after, at the clock tower, Point Of Law hit the front and careered away to score by the fourth biggest winning margin in a Melbourne Cup since Rain Lover in 1968, but it could have been much more. Second was Zahrann and third Juja Kibo; both brave runs and like the winner, trained by Ciaron Maher. For the first time in the history of the great race, one trainer had prepared the first three horses home. Further to this unique feat, of the seven starters trained by Maher, two finished fifth (Royal Supremacy) and sixth (Shockletz), giving him five of the first six
across the line. The other two stable representatives ran tenth (Middle Earth) and seventeenth (Mr Monaco). Topweight Sons And Lovers, trained by Joseph O’Brien, was just warming to the task when he grabbed fourth place at the post. To have won the Melbourne Cup at just his sixth start in a race is an incredible achievement, but to also annihilate the opposition the way he did has left racing devotees salivating at the thought of seeing him again. The world is his oyster. Hopefully, this son of Frankel will go on to prove himself one of the all-time great Melbourne Cup winners.
■ The Group 1 C. F. Orr Stakes will be run at Sandown over 1400 metres this Saturday (Nov. 14). Since 1925, when this weight-for-age race was first run at the old Williamstown racecourse, it has been held at all four current metropolitan tracks at different times. The biggest change however, occurred last year, when the race was moved from February to November. So, we will no longer see top class middle-distance and staying thoroughbreds take on and occasionally defeat the sprinters at their first start back in an autumn campaign. Hopefully, it can remain relevant by attracting high calibre horses such as these: Jimmysstar Hasn’t been far away at his past two starts in Sydney since winning the Manikato Stakes at Caulfield. Won this race last year when he proved too strong in the run home. Should appreciate the return to this trip and be suited by the track. Angel Capital Won the Rupert Clarke Stakes at Caulfield. He was then unplaced in The Everest, less than a length behind Jimmysstar. Finished second to that horse in this race last year. Capable of turning the tables with the right run. Beiwacht Likely leader. Placed at his past two starts. If he is able to repeat his impressive Memsie Stakes performance at the start of the spring, then he will take some catching.
Horses To Follow ■ Fammi, Savfield, Hankee Alpha
Racing Calendar ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Wednesday, Nov. 11: Ballarat Thursday, Nov. 12: Seymour Friday, Nov. 13: Geelong, Pakenham Saturday, Nov. 14: Sandown, Dunkeld, Yea Sunday, Nov. 15: Moe, Donald Monday, Nov. 16: Wangaratta Tuesday, Nov. 17: Kyneton
feekracing.com.au
● Jimmystar. Racing Photos.
Page 50 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, November 11, 2026
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Real Estate For Sale: 117 Deviation Road, Kinglake
The Team at Nutrien Harcourts is pleased to present to market 117 Deviation Road, Kinglake Central. Nestled among towering gum trees along a quiet, private leafy road, this exceptional lifestyle sanctuary offers the perfect blend of contemporary comfort, space and country charm on almost 3 acres of picturesque Kinglake Central land. Designed to embrace its beautiful natural surroundings and capture glorious northern vistas, this modern four-bedroom residence delivers relaxed family living in a tranquil setting. Surrounded by established trees and native birdlife, you'll feel a world away from the everyday while remaining only minutes from the heart of Kinglake. Step inside to discover a thoughtfully designed home featuring four generous bedrooms, including a master suite complete with ensuite, along with light-filled living spaces that flow effortlessly to the outdoors. The well-appointed kitchen boasts an induction cooktop, 900mm oven and ample preparation space, making it perfect for entertaining family and friends. Year-round comfort is assured with split-system heating and cooling, complemented by the warmth and ambience of a wood combustion heater during the cooler months and double glazed windows to keep the comfort indoors. Outside is where this property truly shines. Expansive decking creates the perfect place to relax and soak in the peaceful outlook, while the decked swimming pool offers a stunning setting for summer enjoyment. The substantial acreage provides space for children to explore, gardens to flourish and wildlife to roam. For those seeking outstanding storage and workshop facilities, the property is exceptionally well equipped with a powered 6m x 6m Colourbond shed plus a huge three-car garage, providing ample room for vehicles, tools, trailers, recreational equipment or the ultimate home workshop. Property Highlights: Beautifully positioned on approximately 11,732m² (2.9 acres) Modern four-bedroom, two-bathroom home Master bedroom with ensuite Well-appointed kitchen with gas cooktop and 900mm oven Split-system heating and cooling Wood combustion heater Double glazed windows throughout Expansive outdoor decking and entertaining areas Decked swimming pool with picturesque outlook Powered 6m x 6m Colourbond shed Huge three-car garage Secluded setting among established gum trees Quiet, private leafy road location Only minutes from Kinglake township A lifestyle of peace, privacy and natural beauty awaits. Whether you're searching for the perfect family acreage, a tree-change retreat or simply a place to slow down and enjoy the serenity of country living, this outstanding property delivers it all. Contact Kerryn Rishworth on 041234 6169 email: kerryn.r@nh.com.au OR Brad Carlin-Smith on 0466 605 522 email: brad.cs@nh.com.au for further information and inspection times. Inspections for this property are strictly by private appointment only. Please respect the peace and quiet nature of the region and do not enter the property grounds without being accompanied by an agent. ** All information contained herein is gathered from sources we believe to be reliable however, we cannot guarantee its accuracy and interested persons should rely on their own enquiries. .
The Local Paper - Wednesday, November 11, 2026 - Page 51
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RACES ABANDONED AT CHARLTON Kilmore
■ Charlton commenced the week on Monday November 2 with an even ten race program with last three races having to be abandoned . Local reinsman Connor Clarke and Kialla’s Bec Bartley took the honours for the day with each providing a winning double – the Charlton Cup Day March 21st Maiden Trotters Mobile over 2100 metres going to 6Y0 Sebastian K-Jaurdon gelding Oliver Smudge trained at father Stephen’s Charlton base and Royal-Iris Calaby gelding Hungry Hogarth trained at the Charlton Centre by Michael Gadsden in the Heenan’s Charlton Newsagency Pace over 1609 metres. Oliver Smudge bred and raced by Manangatang’s Noel Termpleton despite galloping at the start from gate four and dropping to the rear as Sunraysia trained Colleagues went forward from outside the front line to take the front running away from polemarker Some Days We Dream which led out. Going forward without a trail in the last lap, Oliver Smudge was relentless in chasing and nabbed the leader in the closing stages to greet the judge by 3.1 metres in a mile rate of 2-04.3. Some Days We Dream battled on for third 8 metres back. Hungry Hogarth (gate three) was fast away with polemarker Stylish Gem also showing speed before easing to assume control shortly after. Leonard also was quick away from gate six and after applying pressure to Hungry Hogarth who was eased to allow him the take the front running. Travelling on a tight rein approaching the home turn, Hungry Hogarth used the sprint lane to record a head margin over Leonard who wouldn’t give in, with Totally Stunning (one/one – three wide on turning third 3.5 metres back. The mile rate 1-56.9. ■ Bec’s double came up after 3Y0 Bling It On-Rollnlombo filly Pirana Perfect scored in the 2100 metre Thank You Walkathon Walkers Pace over 2100 metres and 4Y0 Somebeachsomewhere-Luvumum gelding Zeuss the High Tea At The Charlton Trots Pace over the same journey. Driven by Bec, Pirana Perfect (gate four) after trailing the pacemaker Presidentialchange (gate six) enjoyed a sweet passage before using the sprint lane to gain the day by 1.2 metres from Presidentialchange and Hurricane Hooly (gate five) which raced exposed. The margins 1.2 by 1.8 metres in a two minute even mile rate. Zeuss (gate five) with Liam Older in the sulky after a perfect trip one/one joined the speedy leader Missmalachite on the home turn to record a 3.2 metre margin from Ive An Idea (gate three – one/two) with Missmalachite holding third 10.7 metres back. The mile rate 1-58.8. ■ Hamilton owner/trainer/driver Chris Walsh had covered plenty of territory in the lead up to the Community Bank Charlton & District Pace over 1609 metres and was rewarded when 13Y0 Rocknroll HanoverBest Of Wine gelding Dancin With Elvis recorded his 19th success – his last being at victory at Mt Gambier earlier in the year on April 7. Beginning best from gate two, Dancin With Elvis was rated to perfection with Chris nursing him until halfway up the running to score by a half neck from Dulcie Maureen one/two from the extreme draw which switched to the inside as the post arrived in a 1-59.3 mile rate. Watch In Happen, a stablemate of the winner after racing exposed from gate five was third 3.3 metres back. The mile rate 159.3. Dancin With Elvis a former member of the Barker stable also has 36 placings and over $113,000 in stakes to his credit. ■ Great Western/Stawell trainer Jason Ainsworth was also a winner on the day when Kaidenboy, a 4Y0 gelded son of Ultimate Machete and- Miss Urquhart landed the Cricket Club Hotel Maiden Pace over 1609 metres in a 1-58.1 mile rate. Driven by Jackie Barker, Kaidenboy lightly raced and having start number eight trailed the leader Better Than Daicos (gate two) before using the sprint lane to greet the judge by a head from polemarker Crypto Crook (three pegs) which followed him all the way and flashed late. Its Hydromatic (gate six -one/one) was third 2.3 metres back.
Echuca ■ It was Echuca on Wednesday and Barham part- owner/trainer Jeff Cakebread’s 5Y0 Betting Line-Lynniemach mare Over The Line notched up her 8th success in 51 outings when taking the 1755 metre Alabar Bloodstock Mares Pace in a 1-58.4 mile rate. Driven by Ewa Justice, Over The Line settled three back along the markers from gate two on the second line as Techys Wish after going forward four wide from outside the front line crossed to lead. Enjoying a cosy passage , Over The Line switched around Keayang Ladybug (gate two) who after trailing the leader dropped out sharply in the last lap and making full use of the sprint lane, finished best to prevail by 1.4 metres from a death-seating Sara Ta Sloy (gate four) which battled on gamely. Miss Piggy Wiggy (gate five) one/ one – three wide home turn was third a head away, ■ Heathcote’s Mannix family were no doubt elated when their home bred Kvintet Avenger-Ourlittlelil 6Y0 gelding Patnwill scored in the Echuca Cup 1st Jan 2027 Trotters Mobile over 1755 metres (his 6th success). Trained by Michael Mannix and driven by regular reinsman Ash Manton, Patnwill showing his usual gate speed led throughout from gate three to greet the judge by a neck from Jakee Boy (extreme draw – one three – three wide last lap) and Montana Muscle (gate two – one/two) which followed the runner up home to be 3.1 metres away third in a 2-02.7 mile rate. ■ One of harness racing’s ‘Good Guys’ Nanneella’s Col Godden was successful with 3Y0 Art Major-Miss Victoria gelding Major Orion in the 17d5 metre Rich River Auto Body Pace. Part-owned and trained by Col, Major Orion driven by Josh Duggan led throughout from the pole, accounting for Tooram Danny (one/two from outside the front line) which switched to the sprint lane on turning, with Tryx Vixen (gate two) third after racing exposed. The margins being a neck by a nose in a mile rate of 1-58.5. ■ Ingliston part- owner/trainer Jeff Tabone’s 2Y0 Fear The Dragon-Shes Offlimits gelding Fear The Missus was a strong victor of the Llowalong Farmes 2Y0 & 3Y0 Maiden Pace over 1755 metres giving in-form 22 year old ex-Tasmanian reinsman Liam Older another winner since moving to the mainland. Beginning fast to lead from gate two, Fear The Missus rated well led throughout to defeat Just My Luck (three pegs from inside the second line) by 8.6 metres which gained a split on the home turn and poleliner Every Cent Counts a stablemate of the winner which had followed him all the way finishing 5.7 metres back. The mile rate 1-59.3. ■ Rochester’s Neville Pangrazio 3Y0 Pastor Stephen-Modern Maori gelding Sydthesloth at start number three led throughout to land the 2160 metre Rich River Golf Club 2Y0 & 3Y0 0-1 LTW Trotters Mobile. Part breeder and owner, Sydthesloth trained and driven by Neville coming off a fourth at Shepparton two weeks earlier bowled along at his leisure from gate two and never looked like being caught, running his rivals ragged to score by 42.5 metres in a 2-01.9 mile rate clear of Moonshine Louie (gate three) which trailed, with polemarker Northern Skye (three pegs) 1.9 metres away third.
■ Kilmore raced on Thursday afternoon with an interesting meeting of lower grade horses. Cranbourne trainer and ‘Hall Of Famer’ Jayne Davies combined with Bolinda’s Chris Alford to land the Next Payments Pace over 1690 metres aboard 4Y0 Lather Up-The Baggy Green mare Harley Lane in a 1-57.9 mile rate. Starting solo on the second line, Harley Lane (one/two) went forward three wide in the last lap to gain the day by 2.6 metres from Lorimer Major (gate two) and deathseating Spun Silver who was a neck away third. Harley Lane was having her first outing in eleven months. ■ Locally bred and owned 6Y0 Tell AllLady Jade Skipper gelding Talisker Skipper was victorious in the JC Windows Pace over 1690 metres for the Ward family. Trained at Monegeetta by David Miles and driven by the stables Nick Beale, Taliska Skipper after being caught in the open from gate three crossed the polemarker Yella to lead for most of the trip, accounting for Rakarompa (gate two second line – three wide home turn) by 5.1 metres returning a mile rate of 1-56. Speedy Healey (gate four) was third 1.6 metres away. ■ Bolinda trainer Brent Lilley provided a double during the afternoon with Royal Lady taking the O’Briens Electrical Maiden Trotters Mobile over 2180 metres and Kyvalley Misty the Coulter Legal Mares Trotters Moibile over 1690 metres, both horses driven by Chris Alford. Royal Lady a 2Y0 daughter of Royal Aspirations and Lady Midnight starting from the extreme draw missed a number of gallopers in the first lap enabling her to assume control from Our Arnold (gate two) before recording an easy 9.3 metre margin in a rate of 205.5 clear of Our Arnold and first starter Pastor Jay Jay (inside the second line) – four pegs who was 7.1 metres back. Five year old Skyvalley-Kyvalley Café mare Kyvalley Misty (one/three from gate four) gained a lovely three wide trail home on the back of Kimberleys Tree (gate two second line) ahead of her in the last lap to record a runaway 3.3 metre margin out wide over Jessicas Story (gate six) which trailed the leader and third placegetter Christmas Babe before using the sprint lane. The mile rate 1-59.8. ■ The 1690 metre Kilmore Ford Pace saw Derrinal trainer Glenn Bull snare the quinella after 9Y0 Mach Three-Indigo Breeze mare Taste It defeated her stablemate Fake Cullection in a 1-58.8 mile rate. Driven by neighbour Sean Beried Alive O’Sullivan, Taste It after being slow to score up possied three back in the moving line going forward in the last lap to join the leader Chasing The Wind (gate two) and after turning together, gained the upper hand as the winning post loomed to register a nose decision from Fake Cullection (four pegs from inside the second line) which flashed home at 100 miles an hour when clear on turning, with Chasing The Wind holding third 1.4 metres back. ■ Racing concluded with the 1690 metre Picklebet ‘Get Your Pickle On’ Pace taken out by 7Y0 Safari-Beried Alive gelding Senna Storm. Trained by the Jack Laugher//Ellen Tormey combination at Raywood, Senna Storm was crossed from the pole by Woodlea Diego (gate two) before immediately coming away from the inside to change positions and once there dictated terms to score an easy 9.9 metre margin in advance of Woodlea Diego returning a 158.6 mile rate. Dot Ball (four pegs from outside the front line) was third 3.6 metres back.
New Zealand ■ New Zealand’s biggest event - The $800,000 New Zealand Trotting Cup will be held today at Addington (Christchurch) and Australia are going to play a major hand with Leap To Fame, Kingman and Swayzee competing, while in the second big feature the $400,000 Dominion for Trotters - Gus, Gotfeelingsyouknow and Rockinwithattitude do battle. See next week’s issue for my report on both races.
Len Baker
This Week ■ Wednesday – Melton, Thursday – Kilmore, Friday – Geelong, Saturday – Melton, Sunday – Cranbourne, Monday – Maryborough, Tuesday - Shepparton.
Latest News Sunshine safer ■ Police have targeted tobacco stores with alleged links to organised crime in Melbourne's west as part of a proactive effort to reduce the risk of serious and violent crime in Sunshine. Sunshine Police, working alongside VIPER Taskforce, conducted a series of search warrants targeting stores suspected of involvement in the illicit tobacco trade. Across Victoria, tobacco stores linked to organised crime have repeatedly been the target of arson attacks and other serious criminal activity, placing neighbouring businesses, workers and members of the public at risk. Legitimate businesses operating nearby are often left to deal with the consequences, including damage, disruption and ongoing safety concerns. Results from the October 29 operation include: ■ Five tobacco stores searched ■ 50,949 illicit cigarettes seized ■ Four kilograms of illicit loose-leaf tobacco seized ■ 593 vapes seized ■ $24,000 cash seized ■ One imitation firearm seized ■ Five people arrested and released pending summons or with official cautions Victoria Police also utilised new powers under the Tobacco Act 1987, which allow 90-day closure notices to be issued to stores found to be selling illicit tobacco. The operation forms part of an ongoing statewide effort led by the VIPER Taskforce to disrupt organised crime involvement in the illicit tobacco trade. Acting Inspector Rochelle Keily, Brimbank Local Area Commander, said: "This operation was about protecting local businesses, workers and residents from the harm associated with organised crime. "We've seen illicit tobacco stores become the target of serious arson attacks and other violent incidents, creating unacceptable risks for surrounding traders, workers and local residents. "By taking action against businesses allegedly linked to the illicit tobacco trade, we're reducing opportunities for further harm and making our community safer as a result. "Local businesses deserve to operate without fear of criminal activity occurring next door, and that's exactly what this operation was designed to support.” Detective Inspector Anthony Gasparini, VIPER Taskforce said: "The illicit tobacco trade continues to provide a lucrative revenue stream for organised crime networks, which are motivated by profit and have little regard for the harm they cause communities. "Every store we close is another opportunity taken away from organised crime to profit and another step towards preventing serious incidents from occurring. "VIPER will continue targeting organised crime wherever it operates, with a strong focus on protecting local communities from the harm it causes,” Det. Insp. Gasparini.
Page 52 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, November 11, 2026
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FOR SALE
FOR SALE TRAVEL TRUNK. Or Steamer Trunk Size. 35 inches long, 19 inches high. 19½ inches wide. Black. GC. $200. Mount Waverley. 0435 998 164. BB-EE
FOR SALE YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Why are the ads free? What’s the catch? There is no catch - all standard text ads are 100% free for private advertisers. When you lodge your free ad, you never receive a bill from us. Your ad can be up to 40 words. Simply follow the instructions. How do you make money if the ads are free? Free-ad papers make money by selling business advertising. How do I lodge a Free Photo Ad? How do I get the photo to you? Go to www.AdvertiseFree.com.au - the form gives you instructions on how to attach the photo.
AFL BOOKS. Approx. 30. All in great cond. Some autobiography, some stats. EC. $30. Euroa. 0455 267 422. HH-KK ANTIQUES, radios, bric-abrac, furniture, bakelite . Sale every weekend in Tillamarine. 10am-2pm by appointment. FC-VGC. Prices vary. Tullamarine,. 0404 091 102. BB-EE
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
BED. Folding, portable. With mattress. Steel frame. Has wheels. VGC. $30. Kilmore. 0475 594 899. LL-OO BED. Electric hospital bed. King, single, fully adjustable, side rails, electronic controls and pneumatic alternating pressure mattress with air pump. VGC. $2000. Northcote. 9481 1172. HH-KK BED FRAME. With base. On feet. EC. Free pick-up. Baxter. 04067 047 602. BB-EE BED HEAD. Book shelf. Wooden light colour. VGC. $40. Baxter. 0407 047 602. X-BB BIKE. Lady’s. Purple. Make: Huffy. Plus helmet. Plus basket. Plus pump. VGC. $100. Pakenham. 5940 5018. LL-OO
BOAT. Aluminium. 9ft, plus 6ft x 4.8ft box trailer, plus new 3½HP outboard motor. $500. Yallambie. 9459 6840. HH-KK BOOKS. History. WWII, Garden. Many titles and different subjects. Total: 22, mostly hard. As new. $110. Bittern. 0459 558 055. LL-OO BOOKS. Approx. 50. Ranging from cricket gear and general. Also AFL. All in EC. Will not separate. $80. Euroa. 0455 267 422. X-BB BOOTS. Timberland Pro Size 13. new. Ordered wrong size. Honey brown colour. $100. Yarck. 0414 718 812. LL-OO CARAVAN. Grand Champion Gazelle. 17ft (5.2m). Full annexe with floor. Double bedm, 2 kds beds, gas cooktop, 3-way fridge, microwave, TV, inbult AC 1170kg. Registered N51980. Poptop. Redbook value: $15,000. VGC. $12,500. Flowerdale. 0411 577 050. LL-OO
DRUM KIT. Rogers USA. 1980s. With cymbals, stands. New skins. Great sounding drums. VGC. $1200. Rye. 0415 441 843. X-BB ENCYCLOPEDIA. World Book, complete set, A-Z. Plus science, atlas and dictionaryt. GC. $60 the lot. Frankston. 9789 9634. BB-EE FIREWOOD. All ready for use. $85. Can deliver. Cranbourne. 0466 690 323. HH-KK FIREWOOD. 3mm trailer load, cut, pine. Ready for use. $150. Can deliver. Cranbourne. 0466 690 323. BB-EE FOOTBALL MEMORABILIA. 22 records, all 30 years or over. Collingwood books, posters. records, $6 each. Books various prices. GC. Box Hill South. 9890 7904. BB-EE H A M M O C K STRETCHER. Straight, free-standing, sturdy and comfortable for an adult person. Easy to assemble. With push foit assembly and no screws. Length: 220cm. Width: 80cm. Width of fabric: 74cm. GC. Coburg. 0405 136 239. LL-OO HOLDEN ASTRA. 2007 Turbo Diesel. Clean. Straight body, red, drives well. Very nippy. Reg until July 2027. AUR-051. GC. $2500. Euroa. 0455 267 422. HH-KK HYUNDAI GETZ. GL Hatchback. 2005 model. 80,853 kms. VGC. Always garaged by the owner. Selling due to moving into Aged Care. VIN KMHBT31AR5U 116134. VGC. $5900. Kilsyth. 04219 116 482. LL-OO HONEY. Pure organic, no chemicals. Hive taken care of, no meat treatment. Good price: $20 kio. Pickup: Balwyn Nortgh. 0432 388 799. LL-OO KEROSENE LAMP. Vintage. Working perfectly. Features twin burners for bright illumination. Also a ‘snuffing lever’ to turn it off. Circa 1910. It is not a duplicate. 500 h x 220 w. $110. Oak Park. 0490 111 468. L ADDER. Baile LL-OO Aluminium. 30 rungs. Heavy duty. Industrial professional. Contractors. 150kg. EC. $500. Mornington. 0403 163 933. LL-OO LAURA ASHLEY Cotton Queen Size Overlet size. Sizxe: 220cm x 240cm. Plus 2 pillow cases. Pale blue with thin white stripes. Never used. EC. $25. Ashburton. 9885 2203.
L ADDER. Aluminium. Baile. Heavy duty. Industrial profession al contractopr. 150kg. Extends to 27 ft. EC. $500. Mornington. 0403 163 933. HH-KK MOBILITY SCOOTER. Monarch Hybrid. Has shopping basket front and back. Front, back lighgts. Two batteries. Blinkers. Complete with charger. All books for scooter. Colour: red. Well looked after. Don’t use anymore. GC. $800. Doreen. 0407 206 374. LL-OO MOBILE PHONE. Nokia 2254g. As new. $79. Yea. 0412 063 971. HH-KK
CARAVAN. Grand Campion Gazelle. 17ft 5.2m full annex with floor double bed with two kids beds, gas cooktop, 3-way fridge, TV, inbuilt AC, registered and insured. Red book value: $15,000. Pop-top. 1170 kg registered, many extras. VGC. Reg N51980. $12,500. Flowerdale. 0411 577 050. HH-KK CHAIR. Black,. Firm. Comfortable seat and back. VGC. $25.. Baxter. 0407 047 602. X-BB CHEST OF DRAWERS. Teak colour. Good size. VGC. $30. Baxter. 0407 047 602. X-BB DESK. With 4 drawesr. brown teak colour. As new. $50. Baxter. 0407 047 602. X-BB DINING CHAIRS. 4 Ligna. No. 27. 1960-70s. Made in Czechoslovakia. Original condition, restored. GC. $200. Mornington. 0403 163 933. HH-KK DINING SUITE. 900 x 1600 wooden table, 6 grey coloured chairs. VGC. $400. Mt Martha. 0419 534 365. HH-KK DRIZA-BONE Bushman’s Coat Oilskin Jacket Top of the range. Unwanted gift. RRP $479. X range. New. $380. West Heidelberg. 0407 226 607. HH-KK
ONKAPARINGA Squatter S30 style red/blue tartan woollen rug. 152 x 182cm. EC. $30. Ashburton. 9885 2203. HH-KK PLANTS. Indoor Outdoor Ground Covers. Stags, Bird of Paradise, Succulents, Ferns, Hydrangeas, more. Come and see. Very cheap. VGC. Noble Park. 0407 325 030. I-L PLASTER BOARD. New. Free. Clyde North. 0400 189 060. F-I PLUMBING DOWNPIPE. Colourbond Steel. 100x50mm. Four lengths at 1.8 metres. Yea. 0419 109 887. O-S PVC. 6 slotted aggi pipes, 6m long. EC. $60 Yarck. 0414 718 812. LL-OO RECORD PL AYER. Retro. Radiogram and large speakers and records. EC. $300. Mill Park. 9436 8935. BB-EE SHIPPING TRUNK. Vintage. Wooden. 21950s. Size: 39½ inches long, 31½ inches wide, 22 in ches high. GC. $250. Bundoora. 9467 8990. HH-KK STOVE. Free standing. CHR Park Lane. Fan forced, 4 burners. grill, oven, almost new. $250. Donvale. 0418 380 095. HH-KK STATUES. Garden. x 2. Vintage. One Greek lady, 66cm. Bashful child, 59cm. Buddha, 43 cm. Also Bambi and 4 wall plaques. VGC. $150 ONO. Bittern. 0459 558 055. LL-OO SWAP CARDS. Vintage. 790 in old album. 30 cents each. Total: $240. Pick-up from Thomastown. 0425 733 890. HH-KK
VICTORIAN rocking horse, carved from wood and original. GC. $2000. Broadmeadows, Dallas. 0480 273 335 I-L VIDEOS. Olympic Games. Melbourne, 1956. Sydney, 2000. Manchester, opening and closing. GC. $10 each. Box Hill South. 9890 7904. F-I VINTAGE Mechanical Car and Trucks Jacks. 250 in total. Price negotiable. Williamstown. 0400 825 550. H-K WALL TILES. Johnson White bathroom 150 x 150mm. Approx 128 tiles. $60. Soal holder $10. Johnson wall tiles, 198mm x 198mm. Approx 60 tiles, $40. Yea. 0419 109 887. O-S WASHING MACHINE. Haier. 6kg. VGC. $80. Thomastown. 0431 367 868. I-L
WANTED ANZ BANK Money Boxes. GC. Will also trade. Proices negotiable. Mill Park. 9436 8935. BB-EE B-CURE LASER. Portable therapeutic device, either new or used in good working order. Price negotiable. Ashburton. 9885 2203. O-S TRUCKS WANTED for reale or wrecking. Richard, 0419 566 009. Q-W
VFL/VFA footy memorabilia, cards, season tickets, posters, badges, pennants, records, souvenirs or anything footy related 1900s1980s. Any condition. Best prices offered. Melbourne. 0412 291 577 WANTED. Tandem mobile scooter. Used In GC. Roof and windscreen preferred. Price negotiable. Rye. 0408 993 042. LL-OO
WHAT’S ON FIRST SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH. 11.30am. Laughter Yoga. Nunawading Laughter Yoga group. LOL Join our laughter session to discover the benefits of laughter. It can reduce stress, improve your mood while having interaction with others.nteraction. Free. Tuntable Park, Luckie St. Nunawading. Phone: 0414 518 820. EmailL: jennylouise21@gmail.com
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The Local Paper - Wednesday, November 11, 2026 - Page 53
STATEWIDE • MELBOURNEWIDE • LOCAL
To lodge your Paid Ad, phone 9489 2222. Please have your Card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) ready to make payment.
Phone: 9489 2222 or 1800 231 311. Deadline: 4pm Friday. Email: editor@LocalPaper.com.au
PUBLIC NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICES
NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION DETAILS Application reference number: P2026/2264 Applicant name: M.HERVATIN The Land affected by this application is located at: 4 OLGA PLACE MOUNT MARTHA LOT 75 PS 444536 VOL 10657 FOL 810 The application is for a permit to: VARY RESTRICTIVE COVENANT AB507784F AFFECTING THE LAND DESCRIBED AS LOT 75 ON PS444536E VOL 09883 FOL 400 BY INCLUDING THE WORDS “(EXCEPT FOR AN ASSOCIATED GARAGE WITH EXTERNAL WALLS CONSTRUCTED OF PRE PAINTED STEEL OR FIBRE CEMENT)” AFTER THE WORDS “MASONRY, CONCRETE, CEMENT RENDER OR GLASS.“ AND BEFORE THE WORDS “IN MEASURING EXTERNAL WALLS FOR” A PERMIT IS REQUIRED UNDER THE FOLLOWING CL AUSE OF THE PLANNING SCHEME: PLANNING SCHEME CLAUSE
NOTICE OF CLOSURE – SPECTRUM HOUSE Spectrum House advises that it will close as a group psychology practice at the end of 2026. Following the closure, Emma-Rose Parsons will retain the health records held by Spectrum House. These records will continue to be stored securely in accordance with applicable Victorian health records and privacy requirements. Clients may request access to their health information or request that relevant health information be transferred to another health service provider nominated by them. For enquiries or requests regarding health records, please contact: Emma-Rose Parsons Spectrum House Email: info@spectrumhouse.net
PUBLIC NOTICES
WANTED TO BUY
MOTOR BIKES WANTED
Clause 52.02
Vary a restriction The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 30 NOVEMBER 2026 How can I find out more? You may look at the application and any documents that support the application free of charge at: www.mornpen.vic.gov.au You may also call (03) 5950 1010 to arrange a time to look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council. This can be done during office hours and is free of charge. Privacy Notification: The personal information provided in an objection is collected for planning purposes in accordance with the Planning & Environment Act 1987 (the Act). The public may view an objection in accordance with Section 57 of the Act whilst the planning application is current.
Not going, in need of repair, or unwanted. Cash or pick-up. Text or phone 0439 828 509
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COPYRIGHT NOTICE The Copyright Act 1968 – Section 42 (‘Fair Dealing for purpose of reporting news) provides: (1) A fair dealing with a literary, dramatic, musical or artistic work, or work with an adaptation of a literary, dramatic or musical work, does not constitute an infringement of the copyright in the work if: (a) it is for the purpose of, or is associated with, the reporting of news in a newspaper, magazine or similar periodical and a sufficient acknowledgement of the work is made; or (b) it is for the purpose of, or is associated with the reporting of news by means of a communication or in a cinematogrpah film.”
Page 54 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, November 11, 2026
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PLASTER
PLASTER & FACADE CONTRACTORS Family Business Est 60 yrs We specialise in: Wall & Ceilings linings Restorations / Patch and repairs Facade linings – Commercial / Domestic
Mark 0418 542 736 Matt 0409 542 894
Email: donnelly_1@optusnet.com.au
PAINTERS
ART STRONG PAINTING SERVICE Servicing: Mill Park, South Morang, Greensborough, Eltham & Watsonia. Over 20 years experience. EXTERIOR & INTERIOR FREE Quotes
CALL MAX 0403 198 271
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The Local Paper - Wednesday, November 11, 2026 - Page 55
Page 56 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, November 11, 2026
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