The Local Paper. Peninsula-Frankston-Greater Dandenong-Casey-Cardinia Edition. Wed., Oct. 29, 2025

‘COUNCIL PUNCHES ABOVE ITS WEIGHT’

■ Frankston City Council says that it has achieved a strong outcome at the 2025 Municipal Association of Victoria State Council Meeting, with five of its six motions successfully carried.

“Frankston City continues to punch well above its weight when it comes to state advocacy,” Mayor Cr Kris Bolam said.

Motions carried include:

■ Best Practice Implementation of Lobbyist Registers

■ Vice-Regal Engagement

■ Affordable Housing – Advocating for incen

■ Sentencing Amendment (Emergency Worker Harm) Bill 2020 Expansion

■ Continuation of Tobacco Service Agreement

Funding – Calling for funding beyond June 2026 to support local enforcement

SPORTS HUB OFF THE TABLE

■ The developer Intrapac has withdrawn its application to rezone the Keysborough Golf Course

This included an application to realign the Urban Growth Boundary to allow for the development of 1600 new dwellings.

Intrapac has also withdrawn its application for the South East Sports Hub, which was proposed to be a 70-hectare sport and recreation precinct at 226-256 Pillars Rd, Bangholme.

“Intrapac have a further application for a new golf course at 306-356 Pillars Road, Bangholme, which they are continuing to pursue,” said Sanjay Manivasagasivam, Executive Director City Futures for the Greater Dandenong Council.

Peninsula boosts outdoor spaces

■ Mornington Peninsula Shire businesses will now able to expand their outdoor spaces and showcase their offerings more easily.

The Shire is waiving all Footpath Trading Permit application fees for the next 12 months.

“It's a great opportunity for cafés, restaurants, bars and shops to make the most of their street frontage and help create lively, welcoming streets we can all enjoy,” said a Council representative.

This change comes as part of a new Footpath Trading Policy, shaped by community feedback earlier this year.

“The Policy makes it easier for local businesses to bring colour and life to our town centres – outlining how footpaths can be used for outdoor dining, seating, signage, planter boxes and displays, while keeping them safe and accessible for everyone.

“One of the key changes is that businesses can now combine tables and chairs with an A-frame and other approved items within their trading zone, opening the door to more creative and engaging setups.

“Throughout the amnesty period, the Shire will continue working with traders to make sure the new approach runs smoothly.

Mornimngton Peninsula Shire Mayor Cr Anthony Marsh said: “This Policy is about bringing our town centres to life. It keeps footpaths safe while giving local businesses the freedom to create vibrant, welcoming spaces where people love to meet, eat and shop.”

“By waiving permit fees for the next year, we’re giving our traders a real boost to grow, attract customers and add to the buzz of our local streets. It’s great for business and great for the community."

Rebuilding trust

■ Casey mayor Cr Stefan Koomen says that the Council’s past year has been about rebuilding trust.

“It’s been a big year for Casey , one focused on accountability, transparency and reconnecting with our community,” Cr Koomen said.

“Being elected Mayor was a humbling experience, and I’m grateful to lead a passionate and diverse group of Councillors who are united in our commitment to serve with integrity and openness.

“From day one, we’ve made it a priority to rebuild trust and strengthen our connection with residents.

“Whether it’s changing Council meeting times or reviewing local laws, we’re listening and acting on what matters to you,” Cr Koomen said. “Some of my favourite moments this year have been out in the community, from opening new facilities with local clubs.”

Anthony Marsh, Mayor

● Keysborough Golf Course

● ● ● ● Cr Kris Bolam, Frankston Mayor

Dandenong shooting arrests

■ Southern Metro Region Crime Squad detectives have arrested four men following a non-fatal shooting in Dandenong

It is understood several shots were fired at a stolen grey during the early hours.

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

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

Search warrants were executed on Monday (Oct. 20) at addresses in Rowville, Dandenong North and Hampton Park

During the searches, it is alleged investigators located and seized multiple items including a firearm, firearm components, ammunition, an imitation firearm, a taser, a number of prohibited weapons and a quantity of cash.

Officers also allegedly located a small cannabis crop at the Rowville address.

A 19-year-old Hampton Park man has been charged with conduct endangering life, discharge firearm towards a vehicle, intentionally cause injury, criminal damage, fail to provide police assistance and commit an indictable offence whilst on bail.

He was bailed to appear before Melbourne Magistrates Court on November 6.

A 19-year-old Rowville man has been charged with possess unregistered firearm, possess prohibited weapons, possess proceeds of crime and fail to provide police assistance.

He was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on March 5.

A 52-year-old Rowville man has been charged with possess imitation firearm, possess prohibited weapon, cultivate a drug of dependence, traffick drug of dependence and deal with proceeds of crime.

He was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on February 27.

Local Briefs

Pakenham event

■ The Pakenham Revitalisation Project was launched last Friday afternoon (Oct. 24)

The official turning of the first sod marked the beginning of Stage 1 of the project — aninitiative to reshape the heart of Pakenham into a safer, more vibrant, and connected town centre.

Stage 1 will deliver significant upgrades to the Main Street Gateway precinct, including:

■ Wider, accessible footpaths and crossings

■ Enhanced lighting and landscaping

■ Improved drainage and road surfaces

■ New street furniture and community spaces

On the VIP list were Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Jack Kowarzik, CEO James Collins , Deputy Mayor Cr Alanna Pomeroy, Councillors, Pakenham MLA Emma Vuloin, and Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts, Harriet Shing

At Upper Beacy

■ The Upper Beaconsfield Reserve is a step closer towards the construction of a new pavilion.

Temporary facilities have been installed at the reserve to accommodate club members during the pavilion's construction phase.

Residents are advised to avoid the area for their safety and the safety of construction workers during the installation of the temporary facilities.

The temporary facilities will allow for the continued use of the reserve and are equipped with essential power and water services, ensuring a comfortable experience for all users.

Following the installation, the power and water services at the current Upper Beaconsfield Pavilion will be shut down in preparation for demolition.

Double tragedy at Pier

■ Police will prepare reports for the Coroner following the death of two men in Frankston on Wednesday afternoon (Oct. 22).

Emergency services were called to Frankston Beach to reports of two men in trouble in the water.

A search of the water was conducted, with the Air Wing locating the pair unresponsive in the water just after 5pm.

Both men were winched back to shore but could not be revived.

Frankston Mayor Cr Kris Bolsm sdaid: “It is with profound sadness that I acknowledge two people who have tragically lost their lives on Wednesday after being swept from the Frankston Pier during extreme wind conditions.

“On behalf of the entire Frankston City community, I extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends and loved ones. We share in your grief and stand with you during this heartbreaking time.

“This devastating event is a sharp reminder of the power of nature and the real risk posed by severe weather.

“In light of today’s tragedy, I want to assure the community that Frankston City Council is committed to beach and foreshore safety.

“Our aim is always to keep people safe, especially when conditions change rapidly,” cR Bolam said.

Plans for Golf Course

■ The Warneet North and South Jetties have been completed

Melissa Horne, Minister for Ports and announced the opening of the new jetties.

The new South Jetty features durable steel piles and a modern 2.6-metre-wide timber deck, with new, modern handrails to enhance safety and accessibility.

The original pontoon and gangway have been retained to maintain convenient boating and fishing access.

The new North Jetty has been rebuilt with durable steel piles and a 1.8-metre-wide fiberglass deck, which includes a low landing with steps and new handrails for improved safety and access.

Connected by a scenic coastal walking track, the two jetties have been replaced with more durable, low-maintenance structures designed to serve the community for decades to The Warneet Boating Precinct Plan was developed in consultation with local stakeholders and the community, ensuring the upgraded jetties meet local needs and support Warneet’s growing reputation as a recreational hub.

Bass MLA Jordan Crugnale said: “These two new jetties are an extraordinary testament to the fierce grit and determination of the local Warneet community .”

Bail breaches

■ An Iraq-born man was expected to appear before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (Oct. 22), charged with allegedly breaching his visa-mandated conditions.

The Australian Federal Police charged the man, 50, after locating him in Dandenong. It will be alleged the man failed to maintain his electronic monitoring device as required.

The man was charged with:

■ Two counts of fail to comply with 070 visa condition (maintain device);

■ Two counts of commit an indictable offence; and

■ Two counts of breach conditions of bail.

Officers assaulted

■ A man has been charged after two Protective Services Officers were assaulted in Pakenham.

The PSOs were searching the Pakenham Railway Station area, responding to reports of youths causing damage to a local business about 5.30pm on Monday, October 20.

The officers located two youths nearby and spoke to them.

A man approached the officers, allegedly acting erratically and becoming aggressive.

The man allegedly assaulted both PSOs. He was tasered by one of the officers and arrested.

The alleged offender sustained a minor injury and was assessed at the scene.

One of the PSO’s was transported to hospital for assessment.

A 38-year-old Pakenham man has been charged with two counts of assault PSO and possess drug of dependence.

■ Casey Council has received a planning permit application for a multi-lot residential subdivision at 750 Glasscocks Rd, Cranbourne North. This site is currently the Cranbourne Golf Course.

Brown Property Group purchased the land last year and have submitted a planning permit application for:

■ Use and development of a display home ventre

■ Multi-lot subdivision

■ Construction of two or more dwellings on a lot

■ Display of signage

Reduction in car parking

■ Creation of reserves

■ Removal of native vegetation.

Residents can view the permit application and make a submission supporting or objecting to the application on the Council website until Monday, November 10.

The Council will not decide on the application before this date.

He was bailed to appear before the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on March 16.

Critical injuries

■ Major Collison Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for dashcam footage following a collision in Wantirna South on Thursday night (Oct. 23) that left a child with critical injuries.

It is understood a silver Toyota Corolla and a grey Nissan Skyline collided on High Street Rd, at the intersection of Wallace Rd, about 8.20pm.

One of the four occupants of the Corolla, an 11-year-old girl, was taken to hospital with life-threatening injurieS.

A four-year-old boy was transported to hospital with serious, non-life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the Corolla, a 38-year-old Knoxfield woman, was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

The fourth passenger, a 38-year-old Knoxfield man, was not injured.

The two male occupants of the Nissan sustained minor injuries and did not require hospital treatment. They stopped at the scene.

Police are urging anyone who was driving on High Street Rd or Wallace Rd prior to the collision to check their dashcam.

$61,278 raised

■ A sold-out Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayoral Charity event, the Mayday Cruise, has raised $61,278.

More than 250 guests were aboard the MVQueenscliff, with the Royal Australian Navy Band performed on the pier before departure. Proceeds go directly to 11 local community organisations.

● ● ● Melissa Horne

● ● ● ● Frankston Pier last Wednesday. Photo: 9News

● ● ● ● Cranbourne Golf Course on Glasscocks Rd

Places To Go

What’s On What’s What’s

WOMBATS WADDLE TO DENTIST Hidden

gems

■ If you have ever dreamed of a European holiday without the long queues or crowded hot spots, now is the time to explore the hidden gems of the Balkans and Adriatic coast.

These lesser-visited countries offer relaxed travel, warm hospitality, and authentic cultural encounters — but the secret is getting out fast.

Travel with Me , a Western Australian agency specialising in solo-friendly small-group journeys, invites you to experience the Hidden Balkans: Culture, Cuisine and Coastline (April 30– May 17).

This 18-day adventure takes just 18 guests through Serbia, North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro and Croatia, with local dining, cooking classes, wine tasting and private lake cruising.

Discover more at travelwithme.com.au or call (08) 9581 5944 to secure a place on these exclusive small-group journeys.

■ Wombats Gem and Milo are receiving top notch dental care at Healesville Sanctuary with a specialist brought in to ensure their toothy pegs are healthy.

The short and stout marsupials have teeth that continue to grow for the entirety of their life, that’s why they munch on coarse native grasses to grind down their chompers.

Healesville Sanctuary Keeper Mia Hammond said we provide diverse types of fibrous food for the wombats to wear their teeth down.

“We also do dental check-ups to ensure everything is on track. Milo and Gem were amazing patients and it all started with their training to voluntarily enter a crate, so they could calmly see the dentist at our wildlife hospital,” Ms Hammond said.

“We are really happy with the amount we are checking Gem’s teeth because she has a history of a bit of overgrowth, and Milo is looking really good too.”

The entire dental procedure was broadcast on a screen allowing the veterinary team and visitors to see each tooth in real-time.

Wombat teeth look different to human teeth. The brown stuff on the surface of their teeth is called secondary dentine, and that's what wombats use to grind food into small pieces.

“If you saw that on human teeth you would be a little worried, but it is completely normal for wombats.”

After the procedure under general anaesthetic, keepers and vets made sure they were drinking and eating well. Gem and Milo made a full recovery.

The dental check-ups were made possible thanks to expertise and support of Equine Veterinary Dental Surgeon Dr Paul Owens

As their name suggests, Common Wombats are commonly found across Australia from the tip of Queensland to Victoria, and throughout South Australia and Tasmania. Cars and road trauma pose a threat to these animals in the wild.

Skincare

■ The State Government is supporting an Australian luxury skincare brand working to in-house 100 per cent of its manufacturing by the end of the year, after relocating to Kyneton Rartionale, a Victorianowned skincare product manufacturer, invested $7.8 million to relocate its headquarters from Melbourne to Kyneton in 2022.

The move to to the Macedon Ranges highlights extensive economic and investment opportunities in regional Victoria.

Sweet!

■ Jiashi has become China's largest plum producer.The county boasts 38,000 hectares of plum orchards with an expected output of 410,000 metric tons this year, and attracted 25 enterprises to produce 22 types of plumbased products, including juice, dried fruit, wine, and jam. he plums are rich in anthocyanins and vitamins, which provide antioxidant and digestive benefits.

Milo The Wombat at Healesville.

Places To Go Oyster tasting experience

■ Luxury small-ship operator Unforgettable Croatia has launched a new private island oyster tasting experience as part of its calls to Ston.

The excursion, which is included at no additional cost on itineraries operating between Dubrovnik and Split, transports guests via small boat from the medieval town of Ston to a small, private island - Banja Island - to hear from experts about the growing and harvesting process.

A fresh oyster and mussel tasting experience is offered, paired with locally produced wine from the region.

The island is located in the bay of Mali Ston on the Pelješac peninsula, where a specific species of European flat oyster flourishes in the unique mix of freshwater and seawater.

Uninsured risk

■ A new survey has revealed that one in seven Australian travellers (14 per cent) went on their most recent overseas trip without any travel insurance coverage – a trend particularly pronounced among younger travellers, with 23 per cent of under-30s going uninsured.

The survey of 1001 travellers, conducted by Quantum Market Research on behalf of the Insurance Council of Australia and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's Smartraveller, found that two thirds (65 per cent) of those who travelled without insurance gave it some thought before deciding to go without.

Earthquake safety

■ With Australia experiencing on average 100 earthquakes above magnitude 3.0 every year, Geoscience Australia is encouraging people to practice earthquake safety. Research after the 2021 magnitude 5.9 Woods Point earthquake howed only 3 per centof people followed safety advice.

● Oysters on Banja Island

Places To Go

The Local Paper

Ash on Wednesday Luka, 6, Carrum Downs hero

Incorporating the traditions of the Cranbourne Sun (Est. 1893), Frankston Post (Est. 1913), Dandenong Advertiser (Est. 1874), Peninsula Post (Est. 1913), Southern Peninsula Gazette (Est. 1953), Hastings Sun (Est. 1977)

The Local Paper is published weekly online and printed fortnightly and comprises local areas:

• Casey-Cardinia Edition

• Frankston Edition

• Greater Dandenong Edition

• Mornington Peninsula Edition

• Southern Peninsula Edition

• Western Port Edition

CONTACT US

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

Mail: PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095

Web: www.LocalPaper.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

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E-Mail: Editor@LocalPaper.com.au

Editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au

Editor@LocalMedia.com.au

■ Six-year-old Carrum Downs boy Luka has been hailed a hero after his quick thinking saved his mother’s life during a late-night diabetic emergency.

It was the middle of the night when type 1 diabetic Adriana Di Domenico woke up sweating, shaking and beginning to have a diabetic seizure.

A single mum of two young kids, all she could do was call out for help and hope one of her boys would wake up.

Little Luka did, running into his mum’s room and asking her if she was having a hypo.

“I’ve taught him what to do in this situation since he was two years old,” Adriana said.

“When I have my insulin pump or my continuous glucose monitor on, if he hears a beeping sound, he’s aware that means mum’s having a hypo.

Editor: Ash Long

Features Editor: Peter Mac

Columnists: Len Baker, Matt Bissett-Johnson, Rob Foenander, Peter Kemp, Aaron Rourke, Ted Ryan, Cheryl Threadgold, Julie Houghton, Kevin Trask, John O’Keefe

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

Logistics: Tyler Sandiford, Tim Granvillani, Erica Koldinsky

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

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Long Shots

“Most of the time, I can treat it myself. But in times when I can’t, I’ve taught him to get mum some orange juice straight away from the fridge or a teaspoon of honey, and to either hand it to me or to put the honey in my mouth.

“But this time was very different because the hypo was severe and it was in the middle of the night.”

Bravely, Luka remembered what to do and gave his mum some honey and juice and used her phone to call Triple Zero (000).

He knew what to tell the call taker, to ask for an ambulance and tell them their address.

Luka turned on the lights to help paramedics find the house and then met the Ambulance Victoria

Council has endorsed the 2025–2029 Road Management Plan at the October meeting, setting the statutory service levels and compliance requirements for the maintenance of Council-managed roads, bridges, and paths.

The Local Paper is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach The Local Paper or make a complaint to the Australian Press Council in writing at: www.presscouncil.org.au

The Council may also be contacted on 1800 025 712.

with Luka and Adriana crew at the door, figuring out how to unlock it so they could get inside.

www.LocalPaper.com.au

Paramedic Hailey MacDonald said she was incredibly impressed by Luka’s assistance.

“At only six years old, Luka demonstrated exceptional courage and presence of mind,” Hailey said.

“His quick thinking helped save his mother from an even more serious diabetic emergency.

“Hypoglycaemia can escalate into a serious emergency very quickly if not treated, so Luka’s fast action ensured his mum got the care she needed as soon as possible and ultimately, was able to safely remain at home.

“Something as simple as some jellybeans, fruit juice or a few teaspoons of honey, like Luka gave to Adriana , can be enough to improve blood glucose levels and prevent a medical emergency.” Adriana said she couldn’t be prouder of her son.

Local Photo Flashback

CASEY-CARDINIA

Incorporating the traditions of the Cranbourne Sun (Est. 1893). The Casey-Cardinia Edition readership area comprises part of the City of Casey including Cranbourne, Cranbourne East, Cranbourne North, Cranbourne South, Cranbourne West, Devon Meadows, Doveton, Endeavour Hills, Eumemmerring, Hallam, Hampton Park, Harkaway, Junction Village, Lynbrook, Lyndhurst (part), Pearcedale (part). The entire City of Casey is home to more than 340,419 people, living in approximately 102,790 homes. The Shire of Cardinia readership area includes Cardinia Shire includes the suburbs and localities of Beaconsfield (part), Beaconsfield Upper, Officer, Officer South, Pakenham, Pakenham South and Pakenham Upper. The entire Shire of Casey is home to more than 118,675 people, living in approximately 35,098 homes.

FRANKSTON

Incorporating the traditions of the Frankston Post (Est. 1913). Frankston comprises Carrum Downs, Frankston, Frankston North, Frankston South, Langwarrin, Langwarrin South, Sandhurst, Seaford and Skye. Frankston is home to more than 134,143 people, living in approximately 56,935 homes.

GREATER DANDENONG

Incorporating the traditions of the Dandenong Advertiser (Est. 1874). Greater Dandenong comprises Bangholme, Dandenong, Dandenong North, Dandenong South, Keysborough, Noble Park, Noble Park North, Springvale and Springvale South plus parts of Lyndhurst. Greater Dandenong is home to more than 152,050 people, living in approximately 54,694 homes.

PENINSULA

MORNINGTON PENINSULA

Incorporating the traditions of the Peninsula Post (Est. 1913). Mornington Peninsula comprises Moorooduc, Mornington, Mount Eliza and Mount Martha. Mornington Peninsula Shire is home to more than 154,999 people, living in approximately 89,155 homes.

SOUTHERN PENINSULA

Incorporating the traditions of the Southern Peninsula Gazette (Est. 1953). Southern Peninsula comprises Blairgowrie, Boneo, Cape Schanck, Capel Sound, Dromana, Fingal, McCrae, Portsea, Rosebud, Rye, Safety Beach, Sorrento, St Andrews Beach and Tootgarook.

WESTERN PORT

Incorporating the traditions of the Hastings Sun (Est. 1977)

Western Port comprises Balnarring, Balnarring Beach, Bittern, Crib Point, Dromana, Flinders, Hastings, HMAS Cerberus, Main Ridge, Merricks, Merricks Beach, Merricks North, Point Leo, Portsea, Red Hill, Red Hill South, Shoreham, Somers, Somerville and Tyabb.

● ● Paramedic Hayley MacDonald

Cheryl Threadgold, Local Theatre

Houghton,

Suburban Report

Speeding solo

■ State Highway Patrol officers have impounded a motorcycle after it was observed allegedly travelling at 100-kmh over the speed limit in Clayton South on Friday evening (Oct. 24).

Officers intercepted the black Yamaha R1 on Westall Rd about 7pm.

It is alleged the solo was travelling at 180kmh in an 80-kmh zone.

To make matters worse, the 24-year-old male rider only held a restricted motorcycle licence.

The Yamaha was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1159 and it is expected the rider will be charged on summons.

MELBOURNE

Jail for 8 years

■ A Swiss national has been sentenced to more than eight years’ imprisonment after attempting to import 21kg of cocaine concealed inside his luggage on board an international flight into Melbourne

The man, 21, was sentenced on Friday (Oct. 24)by the County Court to eight years and eight months’ imprisonment, with a minimum non-parole period of four years and 10 months. Australian Border Force \officers initially detected the illicit drugs in the man’s luggage on January 3, after he was selected for a baggage examination following his arrival at Melbourne Airport on a flight from Los Angeles

Across Town 150 VEHICLES PULLED OVER IN HOON OPERATION

■ Victoria Police is issuing a stern warning to hoon drivers to avoid Melbourne’s south this summer, following a twonight operation that saw 150 hoon vehicles identified and almost 120 defect notices issued in a crackdown in St Kilda and Prahran

Over two nights, Prahran Highway Patrol, alongside Department of Transport and Planning mechanics, pulled over 150 vehicles suspected of being illegally modified and inspected them for defects.

The highly visible road safety operation was conducted during the evenings of Friday and Saturday, October 17-18, near The Esplanade and Chapel St.

There, police identified and deterred alleged illegal hoon activity in the area, as well as getting drug and alcohol impaired drivers and unroadworthy cars off the road.

The operation resulted in:

■ 150 vehicles inspected

■ 117 defects issued, including for oversized tyres, vehicles being raised too high, vehicles being lowered too much, and air suspension without certificates

■ 25 Penalty Infringement Notices issued for unsafe/ unroadworthy vehicles

■ 11 vehicles, including some motorbikes, were towed for having major defects

■ two alleged drink drivers caught

■ One drug driver caught

■ two drivers caught behind

Melbournewide

the wheel while suspended or unlicenced.

Police will continue to target hoons and run highly visible operations to ensure road safety, with a reminder that this can be anytime, anywhere.

Prahran Highway Patrol

Senior Sergeant Adam Dowling said: “Hoon activity generally gears up during the warmer months, and our message to those drivers is: don’t bother – especially in St Kilda and Prahran

“We have ongoing operations across the southeastern suburbs where we are pulling defective vehicles off the road and issuing infringement notices.

“Modifying your vehicle can be costly, and having to pay a fine on top of fixing your car after it is found to be defective will cost you even more in the long run.

“Defective vehicles are not fit to be driven on our roads and unnecessarily put lives in danger, and Victoria Police continues to warn motorists there is zero tolerance for anyone who puts innocent road users in harm’s way.”

ALTONA NORTH

College fire

■ Fire Rescue Victoria responded at 3.28am Saturday (oct. 25) to an incident at Bayside P-12 College in Altona North, after callers to Triple Zero (000) reported a building fire. Firefighters arrived on scene to find an 8 x 3 building within the school grounds fully involved in fire. Crews donned Apparatus to attack the blaze, bringing the incident under control at 3.44am. Police were requested to attend the incident because of suspicious circumstances.

PARKDALE Rider blew .129

■ State Highway Patrol solo officers impounded a motorcycle in Parkdale after the driver allegedly blew over his alcohol limit on Friday afternoon (Oct. 24).

Officers intercepted the Yamaha MT-07 on Beach Rd about 5.15pm.

Enquiries revealed the 29-year-old Truganina man had an E condition on his licence, which requires the rider to have a zero blood alcohol concentration.

The man underwent an evidentiary breath test with an alleged reading of .129. His motorcycle was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1046.80, and it is expected he will be charged on summons to appear at Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court at a later date.

SEAFORD

Car break-ins

■ Protective Services Officers have arrested two men allegedly breaking into cars at Seaford Railway Station on Thursday (Oct. 23).

Officers responded to reports of men attempting to break into parked vehicles off Railway Pde about 1.50pm.

Upon arriving, officers spotted the two men who fled the area.

A 26-year-old Frankston man who fled on foot had no hope against the PSO, who put his recent marathon training to good use and chased the man down, taking him safely into custody.

The man was subsequently searched and found to be carrying small amount of suspected cannabis and methamphetamine, a knife, pickaxe and several car keys.

A 26-year-old Footscray man fled into a nearby creek, swimming across and hiding in a nearby car park toilet block, before he was located and arrested.

A subsequent search of the man allegedly uncovered several sim cards as well as an onboard diagnostics device, which is used to electronically start vehicles.

Both men have been released and are expected to be charged on summons.

Photo: Victoria Police

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2025

In The Pink Out of pocket

■ The Australian Society of Ophthalmologists has issued a statement calling for stronger government oversight of private health insurers after the Ombudsman’s latest report revealed a spike in consumer complaints and emerging ‘phoenixing’ behaviour.

The ASO says patients are being left confused and out of pocket as insurers dodge accountability, and they’re renewing calls for an independent Private Health Commission.

Hearing voices

■ A study of the way people process inner and outer speech is the first tangible evidence of a key theory about schizophrenia’s drivers.

A new study led by psychologists from UNSW Sydney has provided the strongest evidence yet that auditory verbal hallucinations – or hearing voices – in schizophrenia may stem from a disruption in the brain’s ability to recognise its own inner voice.

Endometriosis toll

■ The proportion of women presenting to Australian general practice with endometriosis almost doubled between 20112021, according to a new study by Monash University’s SPHERE Centre of Research Excellence . The research analysed deidentified electronic medical data from almost 20,000 women.

TOWERING FIGURE IN GENERAL PRACTICE

■ he general practice profession is in mourning following the passing of Emeritus Professor John Murtagh.

He passed away peacefully at the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, surrounded by members of his loving family. He was 89.

Royal Australian College of GPs President Dr Michael Wright described Professor Murtagh as a towering figure in general practice and medical education.

“For generations of GPs, including mine, Professor Murtagh was the most famous GP we knew,” he said.

“His seminal textbook, JohnMurtagh’sGeneralPractice, first published in 1994 and now in its ninth edition, was our guide during medical school and into our general practice training.’

“Professor Murtagh’s ability to explain both complex concepts and practical procedures in an approachable and engaging way made his work essential reading for any future GPs.

“Professor Murtagh leaves a lasting legacy of transforming general practice and family medicine in Australia, and across the world.

“In 2007, he was awarded Life Fellowship of the RACGP , and, in the same year, he was awarded Life Fellowship of the World Organization of Family Doctors, in recognition of his contributions to global family medicine.”

The Pulse Emergency care

■ When every minute counts, getting the right care fast can make all the difference. During Virtual Care Awareness Week, Ambulance Victoria highlighted how services like the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department are transforming emergency care - connecting Victorians to expert help from home while freeing up paramedics for critical cases.

Since its launch, Ambulance Victoria has referred more than 85,000 patients to the VVED for appropriate virtual care, and more than 680,000 patients have benefited overall from the online service.

Opioid treatment

■ People on long-term opioid treatment can be reassured that stopping these medicines is not likely to increase their risk of suicide or fatal overdose, thanks to a major new study from the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre at UNSW Sydney The Australian -first research, based on data from 3.57 million people prescribed opioids, found no evidence of an association between opioid discontinuation and death from suicide or overdose.

Migraine CEO

■ Migraine Australia has announced the appointment of Chloe Cifelli as Chair and Amy Jones as Deputy Chair; two experienced executives set to lead the organisation through a new era of growth.

● ● Professor John Murtagh

Seniors News Melbourne

Ancient Wisdom

Super changes

■ “Retirees commend the Government for taking on board the key criticisms of taxing unrealised gains and lack of indexation of the $3 million threshold on the proposed Division 296 legislation,” said Wayne Strandquist, Chief Advocate for the Australian Independent Retirees

“Australian Independent Retirees objected to the calculation of earnings based on unrealised capital gains, that is, the yearon-year difference in capital value of a fund member’s total superannuation balance.

“We will now see earnings that are calculated on actual earnings received such as interest, dividends, actual net realised capital gains, investment distributions, and dividend franking credits,” Mr Strandquist said.

Women’s savings

■ A new Monash University study found that women were at higher risk of exhausting their retirement savings than men when relying on the traditional 60/40 investment mix of equities and bonds for a comfortable lifestyle.

The report, titled TheFutureofthe60/40 Allocation:ModellingthePerformanceof the60/40PortfolioinRetirement, used computer simulations to examine retirement outcomes in Australia and the United States

The study tested how well the classic 60/ 40 strategy, which allocates 60 per cent of savings to equities for growth and 40 per cent to bonds for stability, could support retirees over a 25-year period, either at a comfortable lifestyle of $53,289 a year or a modest lifestyle of $34,522 a year for single retirees, as defined by standard benchmarks in Australia

The research was led by experts from the Monash Centre for Financial Studies at Monash Business School in collaboration with the US-based CFA Institute.

The researchers found that women, who typically retire with lower superannuation balances in Australia and lower Social Security benefits in the United States, faced greater financial strain under the traditional 60/40 investment approach.

Aged screening

■ Due to the high prevalence of malnutrition in aged care, Dietitians Australia is pushing for malnutrition screening to become a mandatory component of the residential care admissions process.

These tools are used to identify residents who are at risk of malnutrition without the need for diagnostic tests and interventions.

Top destinations

■ Australia’s top 10 retirement destinations have been announced by Toby Ellis, Managing Director, Citro:

■ Orange, NSW : median dwelling price

$665K; median weekly rent $560

■ Rosebud, Victoria: median dwelling price

$769K; median weekly rent $589

■ Wagga Wagga, NSW : median dwelling price $573K; median weekly rent $525

■ Mandurah, WA: median dwelling price

$711K; median weekly rent $617

■ Ballina, NSW: median dwelling price $1M; median weekly rent $805

■ Greenwith, SA: median dwelling price

$845K; median weekly rent $616

■ Wellard, WA: median dwelling price

$706K; median weekly rent $662

■ Golden Beach, QLD: median dwelling price $1M; median weekly rent $723

■ Launceston, Tasmania: median dwelling price $534K; median weekly rent $500

■ Paynesville, Victoria: median dwelling price $540K; median weekly rent $499.

“Australians over 40 are asking smart questions about where they’ll spend the next chapter of their lives,” Mr Ellis said.

New rules for Aged Care decision making

■ A new legislated supported decision-making approach will commence on November 1 under the new AgedCareAct

It will create significant responsibilities for those providing care, as well as for families and others who support older people.

“The new regime is about rebalancing the power dynamics in aged care and putting the wishes of older people front and centre,” said Older Persons Advocacy Network CEO, Craig Gear

“It reinforces that older people have the right to make their own decisions, with appropriate support if they need it.

“For registered supporters, the new regime also introduces clear responsibilities and consequences, ensuring that the autonomy and voice of the older person is respected in all decisions about their care and life.”

To help prepare for these changes, OPAN has launched new supported decision-making resources for both older people and aged care providers.

The supported decision-making toolkit helps older people, their families and supporters understand what supported decision-making is, why it matters, and how to use it in everyday life.

It includes practical tips, easy-to-understand information, and real-life examples to help people stay in control of decisions about their care, services and daily life.

For aged care providers, OPAN has developed a new supported decision-making eLearning module, offering practical guidance on how to put supported decision-making into practice in line with their obligations under the new AgedCareAct

Mr Gear said supported decision-making is a cornerstone of a rights-based aged care system - one that recognises older people as the decision-makers in their own lives.

“Supported decision-making means having the support you need to make and communicate your own decisions, rather than having decisions made for you,” Mr Gear said.

“The new Aged Care Act reinforces that right. It ensures older people remain at the centre of their care, supported by those they trust - whether that’s a family member, friend, advocate or provider.

“These new resources give older people practical tools to exercise that right and help providers understand how to embed supported decision-making in everyday practice.”

The resources were developed by subject matter experts in collaboration with older people, advocates and aged care providers, to ensure they reflect real-world experiences and practical application.

Together, they form part of OPAN’s commitment to building a more inclusive, rightsbased aged care system.

The supported decision-making toolkit and eLearning module for providers are freely available at opan.org.au

Alarming figures

■ Influenza deaths in the first seven months of this year have surpassed the same period in the most recent severe flu year of 2019, according to new data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics Australian College of Nursing Chief Nursing Officer, Frances Rice, said these alarming figures are further evidence that Australia needs more nurse-led programs and clinics to reverse Australia’s declining vaccination rates.

Provisional mortality statistics reveal that 753 influenza deaths were recorded between January and July 2025 – the worst period since the same time in 2019.

● ● Craig Gear, CEO, OPAN

■ Catholic Health Australia has welcomed the opportunity to appear before Senators at the Aged Care Services Inquiry, noting that the Inquiry’s main goal to have more home care packages released by the Government has been achieved.

The bipartisan decision to release home care packages sooner was a great outcome of this Inquiry, said Alex Lynch - Director of Aged and Community Care

The Inquiry noted CHA’s advocacy on the critical issue of insufficient support for care management within the new Aged Care framework.

The decision to reduce care management increases the risks of unplanned hospitalisations and earlier than necessary entry into residential aged care.

“Catholic providers continue to advocate for care management to be restored to meet the goal of supporting people to age in their own homes,” said Mr Lynch.

End-of-Life path

■ Palliative Care Australia has welcomed the Federal Government’s new End-of-Life Pathway under the new Support at Home aged care program, starting November 1.

PCA CEO Camilla Rowland said the $25,000 allocation for home based aged care is a vital step forward that could transform end of life care for thousands of Australians each year.

homemaker ▲ Melbourne

Home Sweet Home

Local colours

■ Step inside an Australian home in 2025 and you will notice the difference immediately: softer light, warmer colours, textures you want to touch.

Cool greys and stark whites are continuing to give way to clay, sand, and olive tones, while glossy finishes are being replaced with matte and natural surfaces with beautiful patina.

Flooring and window treatments are setting the mood - turning everyday rooms into places that feel calm, personal, and enduring.

“Because we’re working with so many different communities, we see first-hand how people adapt trends to suit their location and style of home,” says Georgina Redenbach, Interior Designer and founder of Olive and Pear Designs, in partnership with Andersens

“In warmer climates, pale hybrids and sheer curtains are popular for maximising light and airflow, while in cooler regions we’re seeing heritage-inspired parquetry and layered window treatments making a confident return. It’s a national story, but told in very local ways.”

Heat pumps on

■ Government forecasts suggest that by 2036, heat pumps could provide up to 40 per cent of Australia’s domestic hot water.

This shift is being supported by the Federal Government’s Heat Pump Roadmap and strengthened Minimum Energy Performance Standards, both designed to accelerate the move toward energy efficiency and decarbonisation.

Nylex new range

■ Aussie brand, Nylex, has launched a new watering accessories range designed to elevate the look of outdoor spaces while offering easy and efficient water usage.

With an understanding of current home and landscaping trends, the collection has been created for the style conscious homeowner, transforming necessary watering equipment into a feature they’d want to show.

Architecturally-inspired, the new Nylex range consists of watering essentials including hoses, hose reels and hose carts.

Stylish features such as a sophisticated monochromatic palette with contrasting textures and bold streamlined forms, are a significant move away from the bright colours traditionally seen in garden watering accessories.

Market shifts

■ Suburbs such as Chelsea in Melbourne are attracting a mix of first and second home buyers, as well as investors, says Propertybuyer CEO and Founder Rich Harvey.

Australia’s property market is shifting rapidly with several suburbs poised to tip over the million-dollar median mark, according to new research and analysis from Propertybuyer and Hotspotting

The top 10 list features nine house suburbs and one unit suburb, with three in New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland, as well as one in South Australia

It was becoming increasingly difficult to identify emerging $1 million hotspots because of rapid price growth, Mr Harvey said.

“It’s getting harder to pick suburbs because some accelerate over the finish line so much faster now. Frankston, for example, jumped a hundred grand in three months,” he said.

The Top 10 Million Dollar Suburbs report includes locations where affordability, infrastructure, and buyer demand are converging to drive growth. “We try to pick areas where we believe there’s a groundswell of factors pushing it forward.”

PREPARING FOR SEVERE STORMS

■ With storms costing Victorians millions of dollars in damage annually and accounting for 80 per cent of all Victoria State Emergency Service callouts, RACV is encouraging Victorians to take proactive steps to protect their homes and vehicles from severe weather.

According to Victoria State Emergency Service, more than 12,000 storm-related requests for assistance were made in the past year, costing Victorians an estimated $28 million.

The Insurance Council of Australia also reported 27,000 insurance claims during the extreme 2024 Valentine’s Day storm.

RACV General Manager Insurance and Roadside, Bill Bloodworth, said many of these issues can be prevented with simple preparation.

“Storms are one of the most common causes of damage to homes in Victoria. We know that issues like roof leaks, blocked gutters and unsecured outdoor items often lead to costly repairs that could have been avoided,” Mr Bloodworth said.

“Now is a great time for Victorians to carry out a home and garden check-up and make sure their property is storm-ready.”

RACV’s tips for preparing your home and vehicle:

■ Clear gutters and downpipes to reduce the risk of water damage.

■ Secure or store outdoor items such as furniture, umbrellas, and trampolines.

■ Park vehicles undercover where possible to protect against hail and falling branches.

■ Trim overhanging branches near your home and powerlines.

■ Inspect your roof for cracked or missing tiles. During a storm, RACV recommends:

■ Stay indoors and away from windows.

■ Avoid driving unless essential.

■ Never touch fallen powerlines or enter floodwaters.

■ Prepare a battery-powered radio or phone for emergency updates.

“If your home or vehicle is damaged, contact RACV Insurance as soon as it is safe. Document damage with photos and keep receipts for any urgent repairs,” Mr Bloodworth said.

“By taking action now, households can reduce the likelihood of serious storm damage and stay safer when severe weather does hit.”

Home values hit

■ A new joint report from property data firm PropTrack and the Climate Council has found climate pollution is driving worsening floods that are today hitting the value of Australians’ greatest financial asset: their home.

The report analysed more than two decades of property data and found homes in flood zones are collectively worth about $42.2 billion less due to the risk of floods.

Homeowners are effectively paying a ‘disaster penalty’ of about $75,000 for a typical three-bed, two-bath house.

As climate-driven floods become more frequent and severe, more properties could face steeper penalties.

Households in Queensland and New South Wales are the hardest hit, followed by Victoria

Overall rising property prices are masking the fact that flood-prone properties start from a lower value and experience slower growth.

Climate Councillor and economist Nicki Hutley said: “Our homes are our most prized assets but we’re increasingly being dealt a losing hand when it comes to worsening climate risks. This study finds of more than two million flood-prone homes, at least 70 per cent are valued lower today due to flood risk.”

Home Runs Code reform

■ The Housing Industry Association says that it welcomes commitments made by Commonwealth and State and Territory Building Minsters in providing decisive action to pause non-essential building code changes, said HIA Managing Director Jocelyn Martin.

“These commitments act on one of the key outcomes from the recent Treasurer’s Economic Reform Roundtable and will provide industry with greater stability and certainty to support the delivery of more homes faster.”

The heat is on

■ Early weather modelling from the Bureau of Meteorology confirms fears – a hotter-than-normal summer is ahead, and it's coming for energy bills.

BOM's first long-range summer prediction is expecting chances of extreme heat until January 2026 for most of the country.

Find a tradie

■ “The availability of skilled tradespeople has worsened across Australia as home building pipelines expand again,” stated HIA Senior Economist, Tom Devitt.

“A number of states were already seeing improving home building activity on the back of population growth, tight labour markets, recovering household incomes and relatively more affordable land.”

● Bill Bloodworth at RACV

Passing Notes

$96,000

raised

■ Students from OneSchool Global campuses across Australia have proven themselves to be Heart Heroes, jumping rope for hundreds of hours to raise almost $96,000 for life-saving heart research.

Jump Rope for Heart is an initiative that takes place throughout the school year, with schools running 5-8 week programs to raise donations for the Heart Foundation, while also encouraging kids to get active and move their bodies.

University study

■ A new Edith Cowan University study has found community service organisations are under-prepared, but eager to act, on the social impacts of climate change.

In response to the research a new toolkit and workshops have been developed, providing free tools and resources for community service organisations to infuse climate justice and disaster resilience into their operations, policies, programs and practices.

Little Angler kits

■ Grade 5 students across Victoria will have the chance to become hooked on fishing, thanks to free Little Angler Kits

The 82,500 kits will be distributed across nearly 1900 schools in time for the 2026 September school holidays.

Education Matters

EX-TEACHERS KEEP KIDS INVOLVED

■ Former primary school teachers Sarah and Manny Kechayas are taking their classroom creation, PevanandSarah, on the road.

“Beloved by early primary and preschool students, the duo will bring their iconic tiger, Pevan , and his energetic sidekick Sarah to Ringwood on Wednesday, November 12, at Karralyka Centre,” said their publicist.

“The 50-minute live show blends music, laughter and learning in an interactive, action-packed performance that’s as entertaining as it is educational.”

The shows and songs are designed to support educators by combining curriculumaligned literacy and numeracy concepts with social-emotional skills like teamwork, confidence and resilience.

Their live performances give children a chance to sing, dance and connect in ways that help build joy around learning – while giving teachers and families a much-needed boost.

When: Wednesday, November 12 – 10.30am and 12.30pm Where: Karralyka Centre, 22A Mines Road, Ringwood East Tickets: https://www.karralyka.com.au/Theatre/Touring-and-Community/Pevan-Sarahin-Concert

Thinking Caps Reading fun

■ An independent little Victorian business has launched a project that is the first of its kind in Australia – free, fun reading material for the 44 per cent of people living with low literacy.

Easy English is a format developed by Australian speech pathologist Cathy Basterfield . Through simple, everyday words and clear illustrations, it makes texts that almost anyone can read, with an average reading level less than grade two.

Access Easy English is releasing a new easy-to-read resource every week, focussing on things people with low literacy tell us they want to read.

Sport, recipes, celebrities, what’s on and things to do – so far they have covered the AFL Grand Final, Taylor Swift’s new album, an easy summer recipe, and a look at Halloween

Uni’s UK courses

■ Charles Darwin University has applications open for degree courses designed for young professionals in the UK

Designed specifically for UK-based professionals who want to advance their careers, Charles Darwin University Australia’s approach sets it apart from traditional UK universities, offering students the ability to start anytime, study online at their own pace, while balancing work, family, and personal commitments. UK residents can now apply for a MBA

Tess Dwyer, St Brigid’s Catholic Primary School, Healesville

Tess Dwyer, St Brigid’s Catholic Primary School, Healesville

Discover St Brigid’s – A

Discover –

Discover St Brigid’s – A Discover –Place to Grow in Wisdom Place Grow in and Love and and Love and Nestled in the heart of Healesville, St Brigid’s Catholic Primary School offers a vibrant, faith-filled learning environment where every child is known, valued, and supported. With a proud history dating back to 1901, our school blends tradition with innovation, providing a rich curriculum that nurtures academic excellence, creativity, and wellbeing.

Our Christ-centred community embraces students from all backgrounds, fostering spiritual growth through daily prayer, liturgies, and Gospel-inspired service.

Specialist programs in STEM, Bush School, Visual and Performing Arts, Italian, and Physical Education empower students to explore their passions and develop lifelong skills. With small class sizes, dedicated staff, and a strong focus on literacy and numeracy, we tailor learning to meet each child’s needs.

Our wellbeing and leadership programs ensure students feel safe, con-

Fact File

NAME: St Brigid’s Catholic Primary School

ADDRESS: 1 High St, Healesville, Vic 3777

PHONE: 5962 4200

WEBSITE: www.sbhealesville. catholic.edu.au

EMAIL: enrolments@sbhealesville. catholic.edu.au

fident, and ready to thrive. Families are warmly invited to join our inclusive community, where partnerships between home and school are central to student success. School tours and enrolment interviews are available year-round. Come and experience the St Brigid’s difference—where learning is joyful, relationships are strong, and every child is inspired to shape tomorrow.

Contact us today: 1 High Street, Healesville (03) 5962 4200 https://sbhealesville.catholic.edu.au/ enrolments@sbhealesville.catholic.edu.au

Best

● ● ● Pevan and Sarah

Jason McBean, Laurimar Primary School

At Laurimar Primary School we are passionate about creating a learning environment where every child thrives. As Principal, I’m proud to lead a team of exceptional, highly trained educators who bring expertise, innovation and heart to every classroom. Our commitment to excellence begins with strong foundations. We have invested in highly researched and evidence-based programs that give

Fact File

NAME: Laurimar Primary School

ADDRESS: 1 Armidale Rd, Doreen, Vic 3754

PHONE: 9717 7100

EMAIL: laurimar.ps@ education.vic.edu.au

every child the best opportunity to develop essential skills for success.

The school's approach to guiding our students is anchored in positivity and purpose.

Underpinned by our school values and the School Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) framework, we recognise and celebrate effort, kindness and achievement. This is fundamental in developing confident, caring and responsible young people who contribute positively to their community.

Endless opportunities are provided through our specialist programs in STEM, Physical Education, The Arts, Chinese and Social & Emotional Learning. Where students are encouraged to explore their talents outside of the regular classroom.

We proudly acknowledge and celebrate the culture of our First Nations People, embedding respect and understanding in our daily practice.

Laurimar Primary School is a vibrant community where excellence, opportunity and belonging come together. I invite you to visit and experience what makes our school truly special.

Warm

regards,

Jason McBean

Principal

Julie Di Noto, St Bernard’s Primary School, Coburg East

Fact File

NAME: Sr Bernard’s Primary School

ADDRESS: 36 Patterson St, Coburg East, Vic 3058

PHONE: 9384 8500

EMAIL: jdinoto@stbernardscoburg. catholic.edu.au

As I walk through the school I feel so much warmth and welcome. As a Catholic school guided by Gospel values, faith, compassion and service is evident. There is a deep sense of respect and responsibility of staff and students to nurture and support all.

Student safety and wellbeing is a priority for me. It is clear that children are known, cared for and inspired to grow as learners.

St Bernard’s - ‘where you are known,’ offers a personalised approach, ensuring each student reaches their full potential.

At the heart of my educational philosophy is the belief that parents are the first educators of their children and that schools walk alongside families as true partners, working together in trust and collaboration. Sharing stories, hopes and dreams for our school is something that I value.

We offer a dynamic curriculum with specialist subjects including The Arts, Italian, Digital Technologies, Physical Education and Music. Learning experiences, aligned with evidence based data driven practices are implemented to foster deep learning and growth.

Come and see why St Bernard’s is a wonderful learning community.

Angela Romano, Marian College, Sunshine West

At Marian College Sunshine West, we specialised in girls’ education. We believe that learning and development should occur within a framework that values inclusiveness, justice, love, and forgiveness.

We recognise, value, and encourage the diversity of many cultures and religions within the College, reflecting the wider community and fostering a broader understanding of the world.

2024 marks a new era for the college, with the arrival of Angela Romano as Principal.

Angela brings a deep passion for education and extensive experience

Fact File

NAME: Marian College

ADDRESS: 196 Glengala Rd, Sunshine West, Vic 3020

PHONE: 9363 1711

WEBSITE: www.mariansw.vic.edu.au

EMAIL: cnicholl@mariansw. vic.edu.au

in educational leadership.

Angela is known for her innovative approach to curriculum development and an unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

Angela brings a fresh perspective and a future-focused vision to Marian College.

This new leadership will drive progress, embrace technological advancements, and cultivate a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring that Marian College remains at the forefront of educational excellence and prepares its students for a rapidly evolving world.

Under Angela’s exceptional leadership, Marian has enjoyed a transformative year, with the expansion of our vertical curriculum, enhanced pathways for our senior students, revitalised STEAM offerings and various capital works underway at the College.

Serving as a strong female role model, Angela inspires students to pursue leadership roles and break gender stereotypes.

We would love to host you for one of our tours or open days, please visit our website for more information.

Angie Mastoras, St Roch’s Parish Primary School, Glen Iris

NAME: St Roch’s Parish Primary School

ADDRESS: Glenvale Road, Glen Iris 3146

PHONE: 9885 7704

EMAIL: office@srgleniris.catholic. edu.au

www www www www www .srgleniris.catholic.edu.au

Angie Mastoras - Principal Angie - Principal At St Roch’s Catholic Primary School, every child is known, valued and supported to reach their full potential.

As both an educator and a parent the principal, Angie Mastoras leads the school with warmth and purpose, drawing on over 40 years in education and a Master’s Degree majoring in Student Wellbeing.

Her deep passion lies in ensuring each student experiences growth academically, socially and emotionally.

Under her leadership, St Roch’s continues to build a nurturing and faith filled learning environment where strong academic foundations sit alongside rich opportunities in the arts, sport and community engagement.

The focus is always on the individual, helping every child feel confident, connected and inspired to learn each day. With a strong sense of community and a commitment to faith and excellence, St Roch’s Catholic Primary School is a place where curiosity is encouraged, learning is celebrated and every student can truly shine.

● ● Jason McBean

My name is Julie Di Noto and I feel extremely blessed to be serving St Bernard’s community as the new Principal.

● ● Julie Di Noto

● ● Angela Romano

FREE WITH

Observer Melbourne

Latest News

Drive-by shootings

■ Armed Crime Squad detectives charged three men following two drive-by shootings in Caulfield North and Glenroy.

It alleged shots were fired from a vehicle at a property on Ward St in Glenroy about 10.30pm on Sunday, October 19.

A drive-by shooting also allegedly occurred at a property on Rosemont Avenue in Caulfield North about 3.50am on Monday, October 20.

No one was injured during both incidents, and it is alleged the shootings are linked.

Two 22-year-old men from Doncaster and Coburg have both been charged with two counts of reckless conduct endanger life and two counts of discharge firearm into premises.

A 21-year-old Brunswick West man has been charged with one count of reckless conduct endanger life and firearm offences. They were remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.

Home invasion

■ Ballarat Crime Investigation Unit detectives have arrested three people following a home invasion which occurred on October 16.

Investigators have been told two men attended a property on Frances Crescent in Ballarat East about 9.20 pm and was let in by one of the residents.

It is alleged the two then assaulted another resident, a 39-year-old man, pointed a firearm at him and then stole his car keys, wallet and phone.

The victim was left with facial injuries and lost a tooth due to the assault.

The duo then left the premises and stole the victim’s silver Holden Calais

The Holden was found parked outside a premises Rodier S, Ballarat East, about 11.25am on October 18 with a woman inside.

The 28-year-old from Spotswood was arrested and the car searched.

It is alleged officers located a stolen and loaded .22 rifle, a machete and stolen number plates.

While the car was being searched a 52year-old man from Ballarat East approached police and was subsequently arrested in relation to the home invasion.

A 34-year-old man of no fixed address exited the Rodier St premises and was promptly arrested in relation to the car and firearm.

The 34-year-old and 28-year-old have been charged with prohibited person possess firearm, possess ammunition, possess prohibited weapon, theft of motor car and handle stolen goods.

The pair were remanded to appear at Ballarat Magistrates’ Court with the woman appearing on October 22 and the man appearing on October 23.

The 52-year-old was charged with home invasion with firearm, armed robbery, make threats to kill, theft of motor vehicle and theft.

He faced Ballarat Magistrates’ Court and was bailed to reappear on January 6.

Pier re-opens

■ Station Pier has reopened to the public for the first time since 2020 following the completion of maintenance activities.

The maintenance program will ensure the continued operation of the shipping and cruise ship facility for years to come.

To allow for the ongoing maintenance, Station Pier will remain open to the public on weekends during daylight hours, while works continue at other times to keep the pier functioning for the cruise industry.

Local community, tourists and recreational fishers will be able to take a walk or cast a line off the pier on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays throughout summer.

300 million views for Princess Penny 300 million views for Princess Penny

● ● Brighton-bred ‘Princess Penny’ is an internet sensation.

■ Move over Hollywood’s A-listers - Brightonbred’s new star ‘Princess Penny’ is stealing the spotlight.

She has four legs, flawless fur, and a fan base that stretches across the globe.

Princess Penny, the golden show Cocker Spaniel, has redefined what it means to live the influencer dream.

She has more than 300 million views across her social platforms and fans include Nat Geo, Ariana Grande, Disney and even The Kardashians

Princess Penny is now inspiring a new generation of Insta-famous pets as part of Wahl’s Next Pet Model movement celebrating Australia’s most photogenic dogs.

With global recognition, brand collaborations, and millions of adoring fans, Princess Penny isn’t just a dogfluencer - she’s a phenomenon. A true embodiment of “work hard,

nap harder”, she proves that confidence, kindness, and a little bit of glitter go a long way.

Publicist Marlene Richardson says that Princess Penny’s day starts at 7am as she rishes and shines, in pink silk, of course.

A quick stretch, a wag of approval, and it’s time for her at-home morning grooming session.

Her teeth are brushed, her golden coat is perfectly blow-dried, and those signature silky ears get their daily shine.

No diva can start her day without her caffeine fix - or in Penny’s case, her Puppuccino. Served in her favourite pink cup, this frothy delight fuels her for a full day of photo shoots, collaborations, and fan interactions.

Penny takes her business seriously. She never misses an opportunity to pose for the perfect candid moment.

Latest News

Morwell stabbing

■ Police have charged a man following a serious stabbing in Morwell. It is alleged a man was stabbed inside a property on McMillan St about 10.30pm on Wednesday (Oct. 22).

The 31-year-old Morwell man was airlifted to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

A 27-year-old Morwell man was arrested at the scene and taken into custody to be interviewed.

The man was charged with:

■ intentionally cause serious injury

■ intentionally cause injury

■ recklessly cause serious injury

■ recklessly cause injury

■ assault with a weapon

■ unlawful assault

■ commit indictable offence whilst on bail

He appeared before the La Trobe Valley Magistrates’ Court where he was remanded in custody.

The parties were believed to be known to each other.

Penguins return

■ Families and visitors will enjoy a free and up-close experience with Melbourne’s iconic little penguins from the new purpose-built viewing platform on St Kilda Pier. Steve Dimopoulos, Minister for Environment, last week opened bookings for the free Penguin Viewing Experience on St Kilda Pier which will be open for visitors from today (Wed., Oct. 29).

The experience will be run by Phillip Island Nature Parks and with its decades of penguin conservation efforts, they will be able to guide and educate visitors about the penguin colony while ensuring the penguin’s wellbeing.

The experience will feature a 150-metre elevated platform with accessible entry, seating and prime views over the penguin colony.

Volunteer group Earthcare St Kilda, which has helped keep the colony safe for more than 30 years, will continue to play a role in the penguin experience by helping look after the health and wellbeing of the penguins.

The experience will be free, but online bookings will be essential to avoid missing out during busy seasons like spring and summer.

The St Kilda Pier upgrade was delivered thanks to a $53 million investment from the State Government, which includes a curved walkway, tiered seating, additional toilets, and community space near the St Kilda Pier Kiosk. Book tickets to see the St Kilda penguins at penguins.org.au

Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or a curious beginner, our hands-on experiences will guide you through the journey of this ancient brewing art.

And explore the fundamentals of fortune telling to uncover insights about yourself and your friends. Book an experience. fortyyears coffee.com

Your Stars with

Kerry Kulkens

Presented by Sarah Kulkens, Australia’s Trusted Psychic Family

ARIES (March 21 - April 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 7, 8, 9, 3

Lotto Numbers: 4, 12, 23, 24, 35, 41

Health should be good, but upheavals around you could still affect your mood. While these situations may not involve you personally, their impact is noticeable. Travel is indicated, and romance may add excitement to your week.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 7, 8, 9, 3

Lotto Numbers: 1, 6, 8, 23, 35, 22

You’re making positive strides towards improving your financial picture. A passionate and romantic period is on the horizon, and a missed career opportunity could make a welcome return.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 6, 3, 4, 6

Lotto Numbers: 3, 5, 45, 13, 39, 40

This period is busy yet romantic. Family matters might cause minor stress, and a contact from your past may annoy you. Old friends may reconnect, bringing nostalgic moments. Health is set to improve.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 7, 3, 1, 5

Lotto Numbers: 6, 12, 24, 34, 45, 11

Those in positions of authority or responsibility may need to assert themselves to maintain control. Avoid listening to or spreading gossip, as this could lead to misunderstandings.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 9, 7, 6, 4

Lotto Numbers: 9, 4, 5, 45, 33, 21

A friend you helped in the past could surprise you with a reward. Career opportunities abound, and you may discover hidden talents. Someone important may show interest in your ideas.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: Lilac

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 6, 7, 3, 4

Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 24, 34, 41, 11

Avoid sharing too much with others, but stay observant of what’s happening around you. Luck is on your side, and past events will heavily influence your upcoming decisions.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 8, 9, 5, 4

Lotto Numbers: 1, 14, 23, 34, 42, 33

This is an excellent time for financial and romantic success. A new romance could bring thrilling experiences, while your career may see an unexpected and cheerful boost.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Violet

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2, 4, 3, 7

Lotto Numbers: 2, 4, 12, 23, 31, 22

Partners might disagree with your perspective, and you must consider others’ plans. Avoid taking sides to steer clear of conflicts.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 8, 9, 3, 4

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 23, 34, 45

Fortunate trends surround your romantic and social life. For those seeking love, the stars are aligned in your favour. Financial matters could turn out better than expected.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 8, 4, 5, 6

Lotto Numbers: 1, 13, 24, 34, 42, 22

You’ll find greater satisfaction in your relationships. After a slower period, many will feel inclined to overspend, so exercise caution. You’ll soon feel on top of the world.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 4, 5, 6, 2

Lotto Numbers: 1, 3, 12, 24, 34, 45

Be cautious with money and focus on essential expenses. Your confidence and energy increase, but avoid being too blunt in expressing opinions, as it may alienate others.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 7, 8, 3, 4

Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 23, 34, 41, 11

Home improvements and quality time with close friends make this a lively period. Many will start a new and much happier chapter in their lives.

Sir,

Where are they now?

I'm working on the 70th Anniversary Oakleigh High School Reunion set for 22 March 22, 2026.

The school operated from 1955 to 1992, and was closed by the Kennett Government.

We had a big reunion in 2016 at the Notting Hill Hotel attended by about 500 former students and staff.

The venue for 2026 is the Matthew Flinders Hotel in Chadstone.

Oakleigh High School operated from 1955 at Highland Avenue, Oakleigh, until it was closed in 1992.

All that remains of the structure is the Ferdinand Fliegner Hall; the hall was the second last building to be constructed on the site in 1968.

2026 is the 70th anniversary of the opening of the school and to celebrate the milestone a reunion of former students and staff is planned.

Where are the Oakleigh High School community today?

Some 2000 are on a Facebook group, remembering the ’good old times’ but many are spread over the length and breadth of Australia and overseas.

About 500 attended the 2016 reunion. Promotion within our known groups is progressing well; 97 registrations already. A communication network is evolving.

But we need help to find those not on FB.

These are the links for people to find out about and register for the reunion.

https://ohs-reunion2026.kit.com

https://arelmedi projects.net

I hope we can count on your support to find as many former Oakleigh High students and staff as possible.

Roger Joseph Co-Ordinator, OHS Reunion 2026 PO Box 78 Lindisfarne, TAS 7015 0419 558 421

The future for water

Sir,

National Water Week is the ideal time to start a broad discussion on the future water and food security needs of Australia

To this point, governments do not appear to have grasped the connection between the two, and as a result our future is heading towards an increasing reliance on imported foods, and paying more for food at the supermarket.

This year’s Water Week theme is ‘Bring Water Into Focus’.

This focus should be on redefining the appropriate balance to ensure sufficient water is being made available to grow the fresh, clean food that past generations have enjoyed.

At present, food production is threatened by government policies based on poor modelling and prioritising unrealistic end-of-system flow targets.

As a result, our current water management prioritises high levels of water storage, which is exacerbating flood risk, and unnatural flows down iconic rivers like the

Observer Mailbag

Short letters (no more than 200 words) on local subjects are invited from readers.

Email to: editor@Melbourne Observer.com.au

Letters must be short and may be edited. All letters to be considered for publication must have a name, street address and phone number so their authenticity can be checked. An email address is not sufficient.

Murray are damaging riverbanks and, to the increasing concern of scientists, providing ideal breeding conditions for European carp, which, likewise, are damaging rivers and tributaries. In reality, we are hurting the very environment that governments claim they are trying to protect.

As such, we need a national discussion. Do we need more storage to ensure future food security and environmental needs are met?

If so, are governments strong enough to overcome the inevitable opposition from environmental lobby groups who, to this point, have held sway over commonsense water management?

Do we want our farmers to grow clean, green and affordable fresh food, or do we want an increased reliance on inferior imported food?

Are we prepared to continue allowing governments to ignore the flood risk and environmental damage from current policies, or do we want a more sensible balance that is driven by science and the national interest, not politicians whose priority is winning environmental city votes?

Shelley Scoullar Albury, NSW

Lest

We Forget

Sir, We will remember them. Four simple words. But four incredibly powerful words in the Ode of Remembrance.

It's not 'we will remember them when it's convenient', which is the plan by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

An independent statutory agency has accused the Albanese Government of abolishing the rights of Australian Defence Force personnel and veterans when seeking to review our nation's highest awards for bravery.

The Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal has made a formal submission to a Senate inquiry regarding the government's plans to limit the time period for reviewing acts of gallantry.

The Tribunal's submission also highlighted that it would've been impossible for the Victoria Cross to be posthumously awarded to war heroes like Ordinary Seaman Teddy Sheean and Private Richard Norden under the new approach of the Albanese Government.

Under the changes rammed through the House of Representatives without proper consultation with ex-service organisations, all Labor Party MPs voted to introduce a 20-year time limit on reviewable actions.

In effect, it would mean the actions of Australian Defence Force personnel from World War II , the Korean War , the Vietnam War and any other conflict outside the 20-year timeframe could not be considered for review.

In its submission, the independent Tribunal strongly disagreed with Labor's approach and said: "In the view of the Tribunal, the Bill in its present form would work to the very significant disadvantage of ADF members and veterans, their families and other supporters by abolishing existing rights of independent merits review in the Tribunal and would thereby detract from the integrity of the defence honours and awards system."

Our national heroes deserve recognition regardless of the timing of their actions.

The Coalition will continue to campaign against this illconceived Bill because we don't believe our solemn commitment of 'we will remember them' should have a use-by date of 20 years imposed by an out-of-touch Prime Minister.

Darren Chester Shadow Minister for Veterans' Affairs, MHR for Gippsland

Fire ready

Sir,

Bushfires are a natural part of the Victorian landscape, but with the right planning and action, we can reduce their impact on communities, the environment and critical infrastructure.

FFMVic crews are working hard to reduce the risk and impact of bushfires through a combination of planned burning, non-burn bushfire risk management and strategic preparation.

While FFMVic crews are working hard on public land, all Victorians are encouraged to start cleaning up around their properties to help reduce bushfire risk in their own communities.

Chris Hardman Chief Fire Officer, Forest Fire Management

Victoria

Brave girl, Margaret

From DOUGLAS BRASS LONDON, Friday: While arguments rage over her, and all Britain allies itself with the "Dos" or "Don'ts," Princess Margaret keeps her head high as she goes through public engagements.

Her face shows inner strain, her movement and conversation are mechanical.

But whether calling on the Archbishop of Canterbury or entering the Royal Opera House, she is maintaining a brave demeanor under pressure that would have broken an ordinary girl.

Margaret is keeping iron discipline that makes the whole nation admire her more than ever.

The " Daily Mirror" today devotes two whole pages to its assault on "The Times," I whose editor. Sir William Haley , it describes as having donned the black cap and passed a savage sentence.

"Who appointed Haley keeper of the nation's conscience?" it shouts.

"Who gave the divine right of kings to his depressing newspaper?"

"They are trying to deny Princess Margaret the rights of civil law. which allow her to marry Townsend

"They are trying to impose upon her. an outdated code of living.

"Do they forget that the Prime Minister himself, the man who chooses bishops, is. like Peter Townsend, the innocent party of a divorce?

"This is certainly not the official voice of the people."

FOOTNOTE: For 2 hours last night Princess Margaret listened to the story of a girl who wanted to marry a man of whom her family dis approved - Smetana's opera, "The Bartered Bride," at Covent Garden

Exodus from Canberra

■ Thc 21st Federal Parliament ended today at 10 a.m.

Members immediately left for their electorates to begin organising their campaigns for the election on December 10.

Mr. Menzies is expected to deliver his policy speech in Melbourne on November 15. The Labor Caucus will meet on November 9, to frame its policy to be deliv- ered by Dr. Evatt

Bush Telegraph Trust in red meat

■ Meat & Livestock Australia has released the findings of its 2025 Community Sentiment Research, revealing a significant uplift in public trust and a notable increase in consumers claiming to eat more red meat. Conducted annually since 2010 by strategic consultancy firm Pollinate on behalf of MLA, the research measures and tracks consumer sentiment in the community towards the Australian red meat industry. For the first time since tracking began, more Australians are claiming to be increasing their red meat intake than reducing it.

Rising demand

■ University of Adelaide researchers are assessing opportunities for Australia’s live export industry to respond to Indonesia’s plan to substantially increase its dairy cattle imports, under the Indonesian Government’s $45 billion Free Nutritious Meal Program

Snapper boom

■ Snapper season is underway and recreational anglers can expect another solid spring in Port Phillip and Western Port, according to modelling undertaken by fisheries scientists.

Victorian Fisheries Authority CEO Travis Dowling said modelling predicted last year’s snapper boom would continue to pay dividends through the rest of spring and into summer.

■ Smart agricultural systems, precision irrigation and optimised plant breeding are being developed at a new $27 million La Trobe University research centre.

The facility aims to make protected cropping across Australia’s food and medicinal industries more competitive, sustainable and adaptive to market needs and environmental challenges.

Protected cropping is the production of crops under shelter to provide optimum growing conditions and protection from pests, diseases and adverse weather.

La Trobe University’s Australian Research Council Industrial Transformation Research Hub for Protected Cropping was officially launched by Senator for Victoria, Lisa Darmanin, on Thursday (Oct. 23).

The PC Hub is a $27 million investment by La Trobe University, research and industry partners, including a $5 million ARC grant.

Led by La Trobe’s Institute for Sustainable Agriculture and Food, the PC Hub is a fiveyear partnership between three research providers, six industry partners and the Australian Government Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell said the PC Hub reflected the University’s core mission to conduct cutting-edge research that tackles real-world challenges.

Whiparound Volatile

markets

■ Australian livestock producers have been facing an unprecedented period of market volatility over recent years, with swings in cattle and sheep prices reaching record extremes, Rabobank says in new research.

In the past five years, the report says, both cattle and sheep prices have reached repeated record highs – each exceeding previous peaks by around 20 per cent – only to then fall to the lowest levels seen in the past decade. Prices have been on another upward trend since 2023.

AgriFutures CEO

■ Brianna Casey has been appointed by the Board of AgriFutures Australia as its new Managing Director, succeeding John Harvey who has led the organisation for the past 10 years.

“An experienced CEO with over two decades of leadership in food security, social and agricultural policy and advocacy, Ms Casey brings a unique combination of strategic vision, stakeholder engagement and deep understanding of the agricultural value chain, from farm gate to corporate and research partnerships and government policy,” said an Agrifutures representative. “She has an outstanding track record of brokering partnerships that deliver benefits for all stakeholders.”

Cathy McGowan, Chair of AgriFutures, said she brings the strategic vision, energy, optimism and operational excellence required to write the next exciting chapter of AgriFutures’ history.

Coo-ee to Marie

■ Trek Musicals present ACoo-eetoMarie for five performances, all at 2pm, on November 8 at the Warrandyte Mechanics' Hall , November 9 at the Eltham Montmorency Uniting Church, November 15 at Living Faith, Greensborough, November 22 at the Diamond Creek Uniting Church and November 23 at the Ormond Uniting Church.

Written and directed by Darren Rosenfeld and Michael Try, with musical direction by Graham Ford, ACoo-eetoMariepays tribute to Marie Narelle, Australia's Queen of Irish song, and tells how a girl from the bush would rise to become a local and international singing icon of the early 20th century.

The show features memorable songs, traditional Irish music, 'endearing' characters and humour.

For more than 70 years, Ron Pidcock's 'second career' has been his involvement with theatre, encompassing different genres, from radio plays and dramatic stage plays, to rock opera, ballet, musicals, opera and more than 70 Gilbert and Sullivan productions, performing in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom

In ACoo-eetoMarieRon plays Charley Blarney. Having played many characters including Irish, Ron says he has never played a leprechaun.

Bookings: Trybooking

Cheryl Threadgold

Comics Lounge

■ The Comics Lounge is offering audiences free shows on the dates below.

Melbourne Comedy Festival favourites are back in town and samples of Comedy Festival shows from this year and last year can be enjoyed from October 29 - 31 and November 1, 5, 6 at The Comics Lounge, 26 Errol St\, North Melbourne

Doors open at 6.30pm for those wanting to buy dinner/snacks. Show starts at 8pm and runs for at least 2 hours.

Dates: October 28, 30, 31, November 1, 5, 6 at 6.30pm for dinner (if wished) and free show starts at 8pm.

Venue: The Comics Lounge, 26 Errol St., North Melbourne

Admission: Free (normally $35)

Bookings: email laughs@thecomics lounge.com.au with name, number of tickets and preferred show. A confirmation email will be sent.

Cheryl Threadgold

Midwife Molly

■ 3AW personality Tony Moclair invited listeners to ring in with stories of unusual places where they gave birth. Within minutes a listener related how she gave birth to her son in the Guard House at Channel 9, Richmond. One of the first on the scene was Molly Meldrum who bolted over from the Channel 9 Studio and played his part in a successful birth. Good one Molly, even if it was a couple of decades ago.

John O’Keefe

Painted Diary

■ The State Library of Victoria presents Monograph, ashort-format documentary series, Bundit reflects on memories of his late mother and grandmother, and on family life growing up in Thailand – core memories that inform his painting practice today.

Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

$100,000 FELLOWSHIP

■ The Betty Amsden Foundation has announced composer and researcher Dr Ciaran Frame as the inaugural recipient of the $100,000 Betty Amsden Fellowship – the largest of its kind backing innovation in arts business and operations.

Founded on the vision of the late Betty Amsden AO, the biennial Fellowship supports bold, game-changing ideas in performing arts management, with a focus on leadership, innovation and long-term sector sustainability.

Blending technical expertise with deep sector insight, Frame will use the Fellowship to explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be ethically and practically applied to strengthen the operational systems that underpin a thriving creative sector.

“The arts can’t afford to be left behind in the AI revolution. This Fellowship is about providing fundraisers, marketers and producers with the tools and skills to make AI work for them,” said Frame Frame will investigate how AI can ease pressure on an overstretched workforce by streamlining grant writing, personalising donor outreach, improving ticketing access and enhancing data-driven marketing.

These innovations will help arts organisations simplify audience engagement and boost operational efficiency.

Betty Amsden Foundation Chair Frankie Airey said the Fellowship comes at a pivotal moment for the creative industries.

“The sector is naturally concerned about ethics, intellectual property and job security. Ciaran’s Fellowship offers a chance to explore how emerging technologies can build capacity and improve efficiency without compromising the vital role of arts workers,” said Airey

Over 18 months, the Fellowship will support a tailored mix of study, cultural exchange and applied learning, which may include:

■ Study at MIT (USA) on the technical and ethical dimensions of AI

■ An international residency focused on cultural and societal impacts

■ Secondments in Victorian arts organisations to co-design and test applications

Through the Fellowship, Frame aims to:

■ Advocate for smarter, more ethical AI adoption across the creative industries

■ Identify gaps in digital capability among arts organisations

■ Co-create free, open-access tools and resources

■ Deliver practical training to empower arts workers at all levels

While AI’s creative potential often takes the spotlight, Frame will turn his attention to practical, sector-specific solutions, particularly the back-end systems and operational functions that support an efficient and sustainable arts sector.

Betty Amsden was a tireless advocate for courage and innovation in the arts. This Fellowship continues her legacy by investing in future-focused leadership and empowering arts professionals to shape meaningful change from within.

For more information, visit bettyamsden foundation.org.au

Cheryl

Threadgold

Big Pants

■ A two-time RAW comedy finalist (Vic 2024, ACT 2023), Chelsea Heaney blends funny situational comedy with an endearing charm in BigPants

A musical theatre tragic, she tells of the time she landed her dream part, as Rizzo in an amateur production of Grease, only for it to be cancelled due to COVID

After suffering through COVID lockdowns, well, one short lockdown as Heaney spent COVID in Canberra, and a relationship breakdown, or maybe a situationship breakdown, Heaney needed a break.

She booked a recovery holiday, a Contiki holiday for 18- to 39-year-olds in Vietnam.

Have you ever been caught in a sticky situation?

A literally sticky “sweat lasagne” of clothes you’ve been wearing for days on end?

This is what happened to Heaney as she recounts a sad, but relatable, and hilarious tale of lost luggage.

Ever spent so much time in one jumpsuit that it started to accumulate layers of perspiration, marking the passing of time like rings

● ● Composer and researcher Dr Ciaran Frame, inaugural recipient of the $100,000 Betty Amsden Fellowship. on a tree, she asks. A side trip to a tropical island involved a boat ride with unexpected consequences for participants.

After recreating the vomiting scene from TriangleofSadness, Heaney finds herself stuck in an episode of Survivor.

That is, if the survivalists ever skinny-dip in a sea sparkling with bioluminescent plankton.

Heaney belts out a medley of showstoppers from Cabaret,Dreamgirls,LesMis,Cats,West Side Story, and Hairspray, complete with reimagined lyrics, proving she is a triple threat.

Fierce and funny, despite the embarrassingly uncomfortable situations she finds herself in, Heaney’s charm lies in her ability to keep the audience laughing along with her.

Review by Kathryn Keeble

Masterpeice

■ Something of a hybrid show that used clowning and mime performance styles, Masterpiecehad the intriguing tagline “No words. One task. Two clowns”.

However the intrigue, sadly, was all too short-lived.

Two art installers appear on stage dressed in black and wearing professional-looking white gloves.

They are in an art gallery and carry with them a large wrapped rectangular package. They proceed to unwrap the package revealing a canvas which they then hang.

Ingenious in its simplicity, Masterpiecewas written and created by Will Bartolo and Rae Colquhoun-Fairweather.

The two characters they played were contrasting archetypes, Bartolo being the serious responsible adult and Colquhoun-Fairweather the playful childlike figure.

Once the scene was set a number of sight gags and slapstick routines ensued. Regrettably most were predictable and cliched with the only activity involving a sense of surprise or risk being the involvement of audience members.

Bartolo and Colquhoun-Fairweather themselves played the installers, with musical accompaniment reminiscent of a silent movie score ably provided by Gabbi Bolt. Clowning and mime demand a lot of performers, especially with regards to physicality and timing. Too often though both performers’ timing was off or their physicality lacked skilfulness and, consequently, the humour fell flat or felt forced.

Interestingly no-one was credited as a director or outside eye. This explains many of the problems Masterpiece had. Someone working with Bartolo and ColquhounFairweather could have helped edit scenes that went on too long or added some pizzaz to physical routines. A critical eye giving such feedback was sorely needed to help give the show a tighter shape.

Disappointing overall then, Masterpiececan be applauded for the risks it took and what it sought to achieve while simultaneously acknowledging that it over-reached itself in too many ways too often.

Venue: Meat Market - The Stables 1, 36-54

Courtney St, North Melbourne Review by Peter Murphy

Fringe Festival

■ Sammy J was announced as the 2025 Melbourne Fringe Festival Living Legend at a glittering closing night awards ceremony to end Melbourne’s largest celebration of independent arts.

Performance companies including The Rabble, Re:Group, Polyglot Theatre and Oozing Future led a list of 36 awards celebrating the bold, brave and brilliant artists of Melbourne Fringe.

Best in Category Awards

■ Best Cabaret - Too Much, Created and Performed Lilikoi Kaos

■ Best Circus - Strange Chaos, Created by Oozing Future

■ Best Comedy – Birds, Created and Performed by Sarah Stafford and Alex Hines

■ Best Dance and Physical Theatre – Sissy, Performed by Max Burgess

■ Best Experimental - Unwoman (the protest), Devised by The Rabble

■ Best Kids – Whirlwind, Created by Polyglot Theatre

■ Best Music - Lung Swara, Artists Aviva Endean, Matthias Schack-Arnott and Cahwati Sugiarto

■ Best Theatre - Auto-Tune, Presented by re:group performance collective

■ Best Visual Arts and Film - Club Rewind, Presented by Club Rewind

■ Best Words and Ideas - Lindsay Green's Escalator Podcast Reunion, Performed by Lindsey Green Touring Awards

■ Edinburgh Touring Award supported by Summerhall - Man Sings The Same Song Over And Over Again For An Hour, Performed by Conk

■ New Zealand Touring Award supported by New Zealand Fringe – Member, Presented by Fairly Lucid Productions

■ QLD Touring Award supported by Brisbane Comedy Festival – Birds, Created and Performed by Sarah Stafford and Alex Hines

Artist Development Awards

■ Artform Shaker Award supported by Theatre Network Australia - Wasteworlds: Nonstop Runway Show, Created by Fast Fashun in Collaboration with Snuff Puppets

■ Best Emerging Indigenous Artist supported by the Wilin Centre for Indigenous Arts & Cultural Development (VCA and MCM) - Poems of a Transsexual Nature, Written and Performed by Cynda Beare & Gabrielle Fallen

■ Best Emerging Producer supported by Milke - Claudia Harris

■ Change Maker Award supported by Theatre Network Australia - Is Anyone Even Watching?, Written and Performed by Olivia Muscat

■ Comedy New Work Award supported by Melbourne International Comedy Festival - curlycourtney@bigpond.com, Created and Performed by Courtney Smith

■ Emerging Company Incubator Award supported by Monash’s Faculty of Arts - The Break, Presented by Zoë Bastin Dance

■ Geelong Creative Development Award supported by Geelong Arts Centre – Member, Presented by Fairly Lucid Productions Headroom Award supported by RisingAuto-Tune, Presented by re:group performance collective

■ New Writing Award supported by Melbourne Theatre Company - A Guide to Being Immortal, Written by Shane Woon

■ Outstanding Newcomer supported by Auspicious Arts Projects - Is Anyone Even Watching?, Written and Performed by, Olivia Muscat

■ Outstanding Production Design by Deakin University - The Quieter You Become, Created and Performed by Tilman Robinson

■ Showcase Ready Award supported by Victorian Association Performing Arts CentreRefined by Katy Warner, Presented by Lab Kelpie

Special Awards

■ Access and Inclusion Award - No Seasons, Created By Oliver Ayres

■ Best Work by an Emerging Artist - Tomas C,.lifford Got Stood Up, Written and Performed by Tomas Clifford

■ Crowd Pleaser Award - I Promise This Isn’t About You (Even If It Feels Like It Is), Written by Sarah Matthews

■ Director's Choice - Reaquiem for a Cuddle, Created by Harrison Ritchie-Jones

■ Sound and Technical Excellence Award supported by Front of House Productions –Creature, Created and Performed by Katrina Rank

■ Spirit of the Fringe - Man Sings The Same Song Over And Over Again For An Hour, Performed by Conk

■ Venue of the Year - Grouse Melbourne

● ● ● ● Ron Pidcock

Local Theatre Observations

Shows

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

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

■ LOTS Theatre (Legends of the Skies): Charles Kingsford Smith – The Man, the Myth, the Mystery, Smithy a musical flight through history. November 6 – 8 at 7.30pm, Nov 8 and 9 at 2pm at the Moorabbin Air Museum. Artistic Director: Maggie Morrison. All tickets $25, family of four $90. Bookings: trybooking.com/DFEAG

■ Malvern Theatre Company: Perfect Wedding (by Robin Hawdon) Until November 8 at Malvern Theatre, 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East. Director: Pip Le Blond. Bookings: 1300 131 552, or online: malverntheatre.com.au/ book-tickets

■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Jeeves and Wooster in ‘Perfect Nonsense’ (by The Goodale Brothers and PG Wodehouse) November 5 – 22 at 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Keith Hutton. Bookings: wlt.org.au

■ Beaumaris Theatre: Blackaddder II (Based on the original BBC Television Series created by Richard Curtis, Rowan Atkinson, Ben Elton and John Lloyd and adapted for the stage by Dan Bellis and Harrison Ewart-Dart) November 7 – 22 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Directors: Dan Bellis and Harrison Ewart-Dart. Bookings: beaumaristheatre.com.au

■ Williamstown Musical Theatre Company: Cruel Intentions November 7 – 22 at Altona City Theatre, 115 Civic Pde., Altona. Director: Stuart Dodge; Musical Director: Jem Sherwill; Choreographer: Gabriele Pagano. Bookings: wmtc.org.au

■ The Good Life (by Jeremy Sams) November 7 – 22 at Brighton Theatre, Carpenter St., Brighton. Director: Joanne Gabriel. Bookings: brightontheatrecompany.com.au

■ Powderkeg Players: November (by David Mamet) November 7 – 22 at St Albans Senior Citizens Centre, Cnr William and Alfrieda Sts., St Albans. Director: Lee Cook. Bookings: 0407802165.

■ Peridot Theatre Company: Talking Heads (by Alan Bennett) November 13 – 23 at the South Oakleigh Bowling Club, 1216 North Rd., Oakleigh South. Directors: Bob Bramble, Steven McPhail, and Eleni Rogers. 1 Playwright, 3 Monologues, 3 Actors, 3 Directors. Bookings: peridot.com.au

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Birthday Candles (by Noah Haidle) November 1322 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, Parkdale. Director: Helen Ellis. Bookings: mordialloc theatre.com.au/ or 9556 4440.

■ The 1812 Theatre: Rhinestone Rex and Miss Monica, November 13 – December 6 at The 1812 Theatre, 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Chris and Libby Procter. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au 9758 3964.

■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): The Beauty Queen of Leenane (by Martin McDonagh) November 13 – 22 at the Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman St., Strathmore. Director: Matthew Freeman. Bookings: stagtheatre.org

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee November 14 – 29 at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Tim Scott. Bookings: htc.org.au

■ Frankston Theatre Group: The Farndale Avenue Housing Estate’s Townswomen’s Guild Dramatic Society’s Production of ‘A Christmas Carol: A Comedy (by David McGillivray and Walter Zerlin) November 14 – 30 at the Mt Eliza Community Hall, 90 –100 Canadian Bay Rd., Mt Eliza. Director: Robert Lister. Bookings: trybooking.com/ events/landing/1374274

■ Synchronicity Performing Arts: A Sherlock Carol – Premiere Production (by Mark Shanahan) November 20 – 29 at The Engine Room, View St., Bendigo. Bookings: synchronicity.org.au

■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Sister Amnesia’s Country Western Nunsense Jamboree (book, lyrics and music by Dan Goggin) November 20 – December 6 at the Lilydale Mechanics’ Institute, Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Alan Burrows. Bookings: lilydaleatc.com Cheryl Threadgold

Entertainment

SPERM DONORS WANTED

■ Tilde, the trans-led international film festival celebrates turning 11 with this year's festival of trans-authored cinema being presented from October 31-November 2

This year's theme 'Bites Back' centres trans and gender-expansive authored filmmaking— amplifying voices that confront, resist, and reimagine the narratives imposed on us.

In a time of heightened visibility and backlash, Bites Back is a celebration of creative defiance, self-determination, and the power of storytelling to challenge dominant norms and reclaim space on their own terms.

Filmmaker Lilly Wachowski will be the Festival’s Aunty (Patron).

As a writer, director, mentor, and Executive Director, Lilly is spearheading a wave of transauthored storytelling.

She has reshaped pop culture through films that reflect trans experiences and use worldbuilding to spark public dialogue.

With a connection to Australia through The Matrix,Tildeis thrilled to honour her and celebrate her lasting impact on film, culture, and the broader community.

The festival will host six sessions across three days to celebrate the work of established and emerging trans and gender diverse (TGD) artists.

Tildeis proud to highlight the community that has emerged for audiences and TGD artists alike.

Opening night will feature a collaboration with Sapphic Flicks at Footscray Community Arts Centre. From conversation to connection, Tildeinvites artists, filmmakers, creatives, and First Nations voices of Tildeto be the conversation. To take space from within.

Saturday will feature the second edition of OurFuture. Featuring trans-authored shorts from close to home and across the ditch. The 2025 selection continues to expand trans narratives.

Young filmmakers will take their audience on journeys through the stories they want to tell, with no prescriptions and no ticked boxes.

The visionary cohort includes the world premiere of LinusTolliday'sJourney'sEnd, a new short by Luka Gracie, Mish Keating and more.

On Saturday evening Gay24 Film Club and Tildewill present the Australian debut of Antonio D'Agostino's 1980 trans softcore triumph Eva-Man:TheLoveMachine.

A journey of the perils of technology as they fight off a gang of spiteful heterosexual gangsters to live to love another day. Co-starring Eva Robbins and Ajita Wilson

Finally, Sunday's closing night will change location in collaboration with Snuff Puppets and Tilde will take over the Footscray Drill Hall.

The intention is to create their very own cinema hideaway. The session will feature a screening of We Are Pat by filmmaker Ro Haber, which revisits the ’90s film It’s Pat through a 2025 lens — exploring trans visibility and Haber’s own conflicted memories of the controversial SNLcharacter.

Festival Dates: October 31 - November 2

For the full program, visit www.tilde melbourne.com/program/ Cheryl Threadgold

Macbeth

■ BK Opera presents Giuseppe Verdi's Macbethat the Kensington Town Hall on November 21, 23 and 25.

Auditions

■ Think First Theatre Company: A Christmas Presence (a fun musical play by Elizabeth Semmel about the story of Christmas for children and families) to be performed at the Mills St. Theatre, Cheltenham. Director: Elizabeth Semmel. Actors must be 16+. For audition bookings/info: Elizabeth 0410 665252 or Ann 0409 532 166.

■ The Mount Players: The Cemetery Club (by Ivan Menchall) November 8 (9am12nn), November 12 7pm-9.30pm at the Mountview Theatre, 56 Smith St., Mt Macedon. Director: George Benca. Audition bookings: themountplayers.com or 0419 329052.

■ Peridot Theatre Company: A Night on the Tiles (by Suzanne Hoswley) November 24 and 26 at 7pm at Fleigner Hall, Cnr Highland and Turnbull Avenues, Oakleigh East. Director: Samsara Dunstan. Audition bookings/enquiries; samsaradunston@ gmail.com, or 0412 415 159. Cheryl Threadgold

Described as 'a psychological horror experience that puts the audience within arm's reach of ambition, madness and murder,' the production will transform the Kensington Town Hall into a decomposing dinner party - 'decadent, deranged and deeply unsettling.'

Directed by Kate Millett and conducted by Leonard Weiss, the cast includes Henry Shaw (Macbeth), Livia Brash (Lady Macbeth), Daniel Szesiong Todd (Macduff) and Nicholas Beecher (Banquo).

Event Details: November 21, 22, 23

Venue: Kensington Town Hall

Tickets: Available on Humanitix

Cheryl Threadgold

Trial By Jury

■ I was both excited and privileged to attend the opening night of GSOV’s 90th Anniversary Celebration and special TrialbyJurypresentation at the Athenaeum Theatre.

My professional operatic journey began with GSOV in 1981 as a young teenager, just 18 years old, starring as Patience, stepping onto the musical theatre stage for the very first time.

This scenario was typical for so many young, classically trained singers. GSOV cared for and nurtured so many singers early in their careers, desperate to sing exceptional music and learn the art of stagecraft. A heartfelt thank you for staying true to this mission.

I was also surprised and delighted to recognise many stalwart members of the company treading the boards that night, who did so with me in 1981.

It was especially lovely to hear natural, unenhanced voices accompanied by a wellbalanced orchestra masterfully conducted by Timothy John Wilson

It was so refreshing to hear such lovely voices of various ranges and timbres that never sang “louder than lovely” from both soloists and chorus.

A special mention must go to John Parncutt and Andrew McGrail as they gave a marathon effort, barely leaving the stage, portraying Gilbert and Sullivan so marvellously.

Of particular interest to me was the story of the company’s history in Victoria and the entertaining and comical way the vignettes joined so many memorable songs together.

Congratulations to director Diana Burleigh for devising such a special theatrical event. The absolute standout performance for me was a brilliant rendition of 'John Wellington Wells' from The Sorcerer, sung with obvious years of experience by GSOV stalwart Owen Davies.

The colourful and beautifully designed costumes, especially the millinery, were visually enchanting and the women took particular care with their hair.

I do feel the amazing and powerful ensemble numbers stole the show on this particular night.

I look forward to their 2026 season.

gsov.org.au

Review by Lucy Nicolson

Little Anastasia

■ Producers of the hit Broadway musical Anastasia have revealed the talented young Melbourne performers who will be sharing the role o f Little Anastasia in the highly anticipated musical opening in December at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre.

All from Melbourne and all 10 years old, the local performers who scored the coveted role amongst hundreds of auditionees are Bibiana Brudan, Eleanor Flynn, Alyssa Fooks and Lillian Kinter. Previously announced principal cast members are Georgina Hopson as Anya, Robert Tripolino as con artist Dmitry, Joshua Robson in the role of antagonist Gleb, Rodney Dobson as Vlad , the much-loved Rhonda Burchmore as Countess Lily and Nancye Hayes as Dowager Empress

Barber of Seville

● Sam Dundas

■ The aria LargoAlFactotum(think Figaro FigaroFigaro!) is one of the best known in opera and has been used to grace advertisements and cartoons over the years.

It’s one of those tunes you might not know the name of, but you certainly recognise it.

LargoAlFactotum, meaning make way for the factotum, or jack of all trades, was penned by Rossini for his still-popular opera TheBarberofSeville

It’s a classic comic opera plot, of love, intrigue and silliness, all complemented by the most beautiful music that has audiences humming as they leave the theatre.

Two hundred years on from its heyday,, TheBarber, as it is popularly known, is still a must-see opera that hasn’t dated and fallen by the wayside, as happened with so many of its contemporaries.

Given that it is still such a fun show with clever and catchy music, it’s mind-blowing that Rossini wrote it in just 13 days.

In the middle of rehearsals, baritone Samuel Dundas, who plays the title character Figaro, the barber of Seville, says getting his head around the fact that it only took 13 days is a humbling experience.

“It certainly took me a lot longer than 13 days to learn!” quipped Samuel Opera Australia is currently staging The BarberofSevilleat the Regent Theatre for a short season, but unlike most opera seasons, that alternate different operas so you don’t wear out the singers’ voices by having them perform acoustically every night, Opera Australia has taken the unusual step of double casting the opera, with the alternate Figaro being Simon Meadows.

Both casts are full of fine Australian operatic talent, and you can enjoy Rossini’s The BarberofSevilleat theRegent Theatre on October 31, and November 1, 3, 4 and 5. Book tickets at opera.org.au or by calling 9685 3700.

Julie Houghton

The Dress

■ Essence Theatre Productions present The Dressfrom November 2-7 at the Bluestone Church Arts Space, Footscray Set in I899, The Dress is a two-hander featuring the characters of Mrs Hannah Bryden, a widow who enjoys nothing save for the occasional company of her dressmaker, the flamboyant Mr Bertin.

But when massive advances in the fashion industry jeopardise Bertin’s livelihood, he hatches a plan to save both of them from obscurity.

Hannah must launch herself once more as one of Melbourne’s leading socialites at an upcoming masquerade ball in the most jaw-dropping fashion statement Bertin has ever created. Two unlikely allies race to regain their spark of life.

This charming two-hander will be performed by Alaine Beek as Hannah and Scott Jackson as Mr Bertin.

Performance Details: November 2-7. \Venue: Bluestone Church Arts Space, 8A Hyde St, Footscray. Suitable 11+ years. Bookings: Trybooking

Sperm Donors Wanted! directed by Logan Rea.

Alaine Beek (Hannah) and Scott Jackson (Mr Bertin) in The Dress

CATO THE WISE

Maxwell Newton

★The Australian cast has been revealed for the premiere of Cluedo, on Australian stages from January. Octavia Barron Martin is the Cook, Rachael Beck is Mrs White, Laurence Boxhall is Mr Green , Lib Campbell is Yvette, Olivia Deeble is Miss Scarlet, David James is Professor Plum, Nat Jobe is Bobby, Genevieve Lemon is Mrs Peacock, Joshua Monaghan is Mr Boddy, Rhys Muldoon is Colonel Mustard, and Grant Piro is Wadsworth.

★There will be a media call tomorrow (Thu.) at the Playhouse for The Talented Mr Ripley. Available for interview will be Will McDonald, Roman Delo, Claude Scott-Mitchell and Faisal Hamza

★Victorian nominees for the Australian of the Year Awards are: Carrie Bickmore, Hugh van Cuylenburg, Professor Arnold Dix and Leila Sweeney-McDougall . Senior Award nominees are Thi Be Ha, Uncle Leonard Clarke, Jane Edmanson and Bryan Lipmann. Young Australian nominees are Tim Harte, Dr Shannon KilmartinLynch, Abraham Kuol and Lucy Skelton. Local Hero nominees are Fiona Glumac and Anna Glumac, Carly McKinnis and Tammie Meehan, Susan Moore and Linda Widdup.

★The Victorian Music Development Office says Sarah Hamilton will oach six music professionals in the art of putting together a great pitch.

★Cornish group, Fisherman’s Friends , is heading to Brunswick Ballroom (Jan. 8) Costa Hall at Geelong (Jan. 9), the Palais at St Kilda (Jan. 10), and Frankston Arts Centre (Jan. 11) as part of their first Australian tour.

★The Rural Press Club of Victoria is holding its Rural and Regional Journalism and Photography Awards night on Friday (Oct. 31) at Warragul.

★CHiQ has announced its strategic partnership with the North Melbourne Football Club flor AFLW.

★King of the Court returns to Melbourne for a big 3v3 streetball event, taking over RMIT’s A’Beckett Urban Square on November 8- 9

★Tickets are on sale for The Great Christmas Singalong starring Silvie Paladino, being staged aT 2pm and7pm on Saturday, December 20, at the Melbourne Recital Centre

★The 2nd annual Melbourne Pinball Expo is returning to Chadstone on November 7–9, at the Matthew Flinders Hotel.

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Rourke’s Reviews Entertainment

★Bundanon Artists in Residence from Victoria for 2026 are: Aditya Ryan Bhat and Wendy Tian Hui Lin, Alexandra Kolac, Alice Robinson, APHIDS: Sammaneh Pourshafighi, Amrita Hepi, Nisha Madden, Dani Reynolds, Lara Thoms, Julia Croft, Marcus Mckenzie, Emmaline Zanelli, Lauren Stephens, Mish Grigor; Azza Zein, Bridget Hillebrand, Bryan Andy, Carolyn Menzies, Ella Dunn, Hamish Upton, Jeanine Leane, Loxy & Romaeo, Laila Costa, Lizzy Sampson, Louisa Lim, Martin Hansen; Meta Cohen, Alyson Campbell, Coady Green, Jessica Aszodi, Patrick Burns, Evan Bryson, Alexandra Amerides, Billie Tumarkin; Holub, Angie Goto, Riona Tindal; Peter Spring, Pia Johnson; Queer PowerPoint: Xanthe Dobbie, Harriet Gillies, Thom Smyth; Rachel Lewindon; Rebekah Stuart and Matty Vehl; and Rowan McNaught

★MINA 2025, the world’s longest-running smartphone film festival, opened last Friday (Oct. 25) at ACMI, Federation Square

★Larissa Anderson is founder of TTYP – The True You Project. First event is on Friday, November 21 at the Leveson Hotel, North Melboure. Other panel members are Sarah Davies, Sarah Hayden and Sarah Maree Cameron. tocket prices for the 11am-1.30pm event are $139.

★The story of a native butterfly’s journey out of near extinction is being highlighted at an art display at The Substation in Newport. Through Hobsons Bay Libraries’ primary school Art Club, an array of student artwork is being exhibited to tell the story of the Altona skipper butterfly.

★In Melbourne, Caretaker’s Cottage has been ranked No.19 of The Best Bar in Australasia

★ Hoodoo Gurus will join forces with Melbourne Symphony Orchestra for a one-nightonly summer concert at 8pm on Thursday, January 29 at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl

★A new coffee table book, The Western District: A Journey Through South-West Victoria, follows various used and disused railway lines, stopping at places like Beeac, Bessiebelle, Digby, Camperdown, Casterton, Koroit, Merino, Terang and just about everywhere else in between.

★AC/DC will play at the MCG on November 12 and 16.

Dvorak cycle

■ The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and Chief Conductor Jaime Martín present the next chapter in their acclaimed Dvorák cycle with the release of Dvorák:Symphonies Nos.2and8— the Orchestra’s fourth album in partnership with LSO Live

This follows the 2024 release of SymphoniesNos.5and6, critically praised for Martín’s fresh and insightful approach to Dvorák’s often-overlooked symphonic works.

The musical exploration of Czech composer Antonín Dvorák’s many works has been an ongoing passion of Martín’s since he took the helm of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra in 2022.

The MSO’s Dvorák cycle will be the first by any Australian orchestra, honouring the rich musical traditions and nationalism embodied by the Czech composer’s music.

“The music of Antonín Dvorák has been close to my heart since I first heard my father’s LP of the New World Symphony when I was 10 years old,” says Martín

“Undertaking a Dvorák recording project with the world-class musicians of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra has been my great honour and I’m thrilled that we are now releasing the second in this wonderful series of classics.”

This cycle also pays tribute to the MSO’s hometown of Melbourne, Australia with the artwork featuring picturesque landmarks from across the state of Victoria. This release shows the beloved Melbourne skyline bathed in a pink sunrise.

Prime TV Victoria breach

■ The Australian Communications and Media Authority has found Prime Television (Victoria) Pty Limited breached election advertising blackout rules during the May Federal Election campaign.

Under blackout rules, broadcasters cannot air election ads on TV or radio during election blackout periods, which run from the end of the Wednesday before the relevant polling day until the close of the poll on polling day.

An ACMA investigation found that the licensee, Prime Television Victoria, aired 23 election advertisements on the Racing.com free-to-air TV channel on Thursday May 1 ahead of the Saturday May 3 election.

ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood said all broadcasters needed to have processes in place to ensure compliance with election advertising blackout rules.

“These rules are licence conditions applying to commercial television broadcasting licensees under the BroadcastingServicesAct

“They have been in place for many years. We expect that broadcasters should understand their statutory obligations and be focussed on compliance,” Ms Lidgerwood said.

Content on Racing.com is produced and broadcast by Racing Victoria under a broadcast partnership with the licensee.

The licensee submitted that under its broadcasting partnership arrangement it had a reasonable expectation that Racing Victoria would ensure all content broadcast would comply with the BroadcastingServicesAct1992.

However, the ACMA does not consider that licensees can contract out their obligations to ensure compliance with broadcasting legislation and codes.

Following this incident the licensee has reviewed its procedures to ensure that a similar situation will not occur again.

A House of Dynamite

■ This impressively mounted thriller is a wonderful return to film (and form) for director Kathryn Bigelow, whose last film, the disappointing Detroit, was way back in 2017.

The premise is chilling; a missile of unknown origin is fired towards the United States, and each department who are required to deal with such a situation, has about 20 minutes to try and find out who initiated the possibly deliberate attack, but more importantly, stop it from hitting its intended target, Chicago.

Broken up into three sections, we are introduced to a large gallery of characters, all of whom have to keep a cool head to prevent nuclear devastation on home soil.

From locations such as Washington and Alaska , various people include Captain Olivia Walker (Rebecca Ferguson), Major Daniel Gonzalez (Anthony Ramos), Secretary Of Defence Reid Baker (Jared Harris), SCPO William Davis (Malachi Beasley), General Anthony Brady (Tracy Letts), and the President of the United States (Idris Elba).

The screenplay by Noah Oppenheim (who penned the fascinating Jackie in 2016), takes a risk by moving the drama back to near the beginning of the action each time, so viewers can not only see the processes from different viewpoints, but also see how the horror and stress affects each person.

Some may find this narrative choice irritating (I did find the first wind back somewhat confusing), but for me it helped maintain a human factor which increases the film’s overall impact.

Performances are strong across the board, which also includes Greta Lee (who is currently costarring in Tron: Ares) and Australian Jason Clarke (who appeared in Bigelow’s brilliant 2012 drama, ZeroDarkThirty).

Technically the film is incredibly well made, and is edited to perfection.

Bigelow (Near Dark, Strange Days, The Hurt Locker), one of my favourite film-makers, is at the top of her game here, in complete control of the material, and makes sure every drop of tension is squeezed from sadly topical subject matter.

I hope we don’t have to wait nearly 10 years for Bigelow’s next film.

AHouseOfDynamiteis a modern companion piece to classic films such as Dr Strangelove (1964), Fail Safe (1964), Threads (1984) and TheDayAfter (1983), and for those who were lucky enough to see this on the big screen during its very limited cinema release (myself included), it was genuinely gripping viewing.

Now available on the streaming format, this comes highly recommended.

RATING - ****½

Kiss of the Spider Woman

■ (MA). 128 minutes. Opens in cinemas October 30. Though there is some admittedly fine technical skill on display,

this latest adaptation of Manuel Puig’s 1976 book, which was most famously made as an Oscar winning film in 1985 (with William Hurt and Raul Julia), cannot overcome its theatrical origins (this is taken from the Broadway musical, which premiered in 1993), muting its dramatic impact and political overtones.

Set in Argentina in 1983, during a brutal dictatorship, the story again centres on two cellmates, Valentin (Diego Luna) and Luis Molina (Tonatiuh), and Luis’s attempt to befriend his fellow prisoner, by describing his favourite musical, taking Valentin away from real-life horrors and into a brightly coloured world of music and love. In this fantasy world, we are introduced to Ingrid Luna (Jennifer Lopez).

As the two men become closer, the authorities’ torture becomes more and more invasive. Luna and Tonatiuh do their best, but the film immerses itself too much into the musical elements, making the real life scenes feel stagey and unconvincing (I have a feeling this would have all work better on the stage).

While not a disaster, this particular iteration just doesn’t really work as a film.

RATING - **½

Chainsaw Man - The Movie: Reze Arc

■ (MA). 100 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.

The successful anime series (based on the popular manga) makes the move to the big screen, and is very successful in transforming its energy and visuals for a cinema audience.

Fans will know what to expect, and should be very satisfied with what director Tatsuya Yoshihara and his team have crafted, delivering a fast-paced, beautifully animated mix of action, gore, humour and drama.

For those unfamiliar with the series, they will be lost, and will need to watch the anime series first.

RATING - ****

Aaron Rourke

In Memory of

● ● Aaron Rourke

■ My first memory of the Australian comedian Syd Heylen was on the television variety show Sunnyside Up which was compered by Bill Collins on Channel Seven in the early 1960s.

Syd was part of a comedy team which included Maurie Fields, Val Jellay, Honest John Gilbert and Syd Hollister.

Syd Heylen was brilliant comedian, portraying the Australian larrikin.

When I first saw him, I had no idea of his background or where he was going in the future.

Harold Charles Sydney ‘Syd’ Heylen was born in Renmark South Australia in 1922. He was the only son of a carpenter and joined the army when he was 16.

Somehow, he was nicknamed ‘Seyler’. Syd served with the 39th Infantry at the Kokoda Track.

He later joined the entertainment troupe and was a real character.

The late Michael Pate recalled in his book AnEntertainingWarthat Syd worked with artists such as Jim Davidson, Joe Latona, John McCallum and Ralph Peterson.

Apparently, Syd “borrowed” a truck during a Western Australian Army tour to visit his girlfriend but forgot that the truck was attached to a large generator and he finished up in a ditch.

After the war Syd became a professional comedian and worked in shows such as Jack andtheBeanstalk, ThanksfortheMemoryand StarryNights where he was billed as ‘Seyler Heylen’.

Syd worked at the famous Galleon Coffee

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Whatever Happened To ... Syd Heylen

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

Lounge in St Kilda for several years. He was a regular cast member for 10 years on the television series SunnysideUpwhich was produced at the Fitzroy tele-theatre and he was known as ‘Sydney from Sydney’.

Syd was married twice and had two children with his second wife Patti Brittain

Both children now work in the entertainment industry and Syd Jnr is a very popular comedian.

Syd Heylen worked as a comedian at The Britannia Hotel on the corner of Lonsdale St and Swanston St for many years.

He became an actor and had guest roles in shows such as Homicide,MatlockPoliceand A TownLikeAlice He did small roles in films such as Summer oftheSeventeenthDoll,Caddie,GingerMeggs

and MadMax2 Syd was in the ill-fated television series Arcadia but this led to his being cast as Vernon ‘Cookie’ Locke in ACountry Practice

He was with series from 1982 till 1992 and gained international recognition for his work as a character actor.

Syd and Patti retired to the Gold Coast after ACountryPracticefinished production.

Syd Heylen died of complications following a stroke in 1996 at the age of 74.

He was named the Australian Variety Club's first national living treasure in 1994.

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

That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon.

www.innerfm.org.au

UNCERTAIN ENDINGS AT WEST MELBOURNE

Uncertain Endings

Presented by Dark Horse Experiment.

Designers often begin with clear intentions, creating, duplicating and finally selling familiar products in neat sets on well-ordered racks.

Yet this apparently Udy end point. The point of-sale, des not necessarily capture the complex and messy way textiles move through the world.

As the fashion industry struggles to maintain an old order amid devolving global system, how can we find new and alternative methods for navigating these spaces, designing outcomes within this uncertainty?

Uncertain Endings explores a shift in focus from producing tidy products, to designing processes for shaping disorder, where the final design ay only emerge through the doing. Exhibition closed on October 25. Blender Studio 400 Spencer St, West Melbourne

Up Upwey way

Revisions

Made by the Waripiri of Central Australia and Patrick Waterhouse(UK)

This is the Australian premiere of Revisions. It is major new exhibition presenting a landmark collaboration between Waripiri artists of Central Australia and internationally acclaimed London based photographer Patrick Waterhouse

Over a period of 10 years, groups of Waripiri artists in Yuenduma and Nyirrpi, north-west of Alice Springs collaborated with Patrick Waterhouse to revise a collection of photographs. maps, flags, comic illustrations and other archival material.

The body of work emerging from this collection questions and amends the assumptions inscribed throughout the old documents.

It adds information missing grom the historical record, and gives voice to the stories of the original custodians of the land, passed down from generation to generation Exhibition opens October 25, and closes March 1, 2026

★ Also Showing Small Works from Warlu At Burrinja Lyre Galley

Alongside Revisions, this exhibition showcases artworks by Waripiri artists who are internationally recognised for their use of traditional iconography ansd an unrestricted, revolving colour palette.

The Arts

Warlukurlangu Artists was incorporated in Yuendumu, 300 kilometres north-east of Alice Springs, as a direct result of the birth of the modern Aboriginal desert art movement at Papurnya.

The maintenance of culture was the driving motivation for the elders, most of them were also leaders of the men’s and women’s ceremonies.

Artworks by Warlukurlangu Artists are internationally recognised for th use of traditional iconography and unrestricted colour palette. Artists have developed their own particular styles which are constantly evolving.

Exhibition closes Sunday November 30.

Burrinja Gallery

351 Glenfern Rd, Upwey

Therapeutic

Artists Anonymous – Michael Lindeman

Building on his long-running tongue-in-cheek exploration of the contemporary art world, Artists Anonymous appears as both an exhibition and group therapy: a multi—element installation that remains part of the gallery as a therapeutic space.

Guided by Irwin D.Yalom’s theories of transformation and echoing Nicolas Bo Boumiaud’s Rational Aesthetics, the artist employs finger painting on mirror.

Sculpture, and performance to construct a subversive world-self, reliable, absurd and darkly funny.

Exhibition opens October 30 and closes November 22. Sullivan+Strumpf 107-109 Rupert St. Collingwood Peter Kemp

Joyce memoir

■ Hardie Grant Books has announced the acquisition of former QANTAS CEO Alan Joyce’s tell all memoir.

One of Australia’s most experienced and polarising corporate leaders will take readers inside the wild ride that was QANTAS during the 15 years he was at the helm.

Alan Joyce announced his retirement in 2023 and stepped down early in September 2023.

In Joyce’s own words: “I’m looking forward to setting the record straight – the book will be a forthright and honest account of my time as CEO of Australia’s national flagship. Nothing will be off limits.”

From humble beginnings in Dublin, Ireland, the son of a factory worker and a cleaner, Joyce was the first of his extended family to pursue higher education.

His analytical mind led him into aviation — first with Aer Lingus, then Ansett Australia

Joyce became the founding chief executive of QANTAS’s lowcost arm Jetstar in 2003 and, five years later, CEO of QANTAS Airways itself.

When he took over in 2008, the global financial crisis was hammering airlines worldwide. Over the next 15 years, Joyce became one of Australia’s most high-profile and polarising business leaders.

He guided QANTAS through multiple crises — from soaring fuel costs, the QF32 engine failure and near loss of an A380 to the grounding of its entire fleet in 2011 during a fierce standoff with unions.

The decision was unprecedented and deeply controversial, yet it ultimately forced a resolution that allowed the restructure of the airline.

Critics called it reckless brinkmanship; supporters hailed it as the bold act that saved QANTAS from collapse.

Accident prone?

■ Hollywood actor Alec Baldwin has the rumour mill in another spin about his weekend crash into a tree so as to avoid having a head-on crash with a garbage collection truck. Not long ago Baldwin was involved in a long running investigation about the fatal on-set death of a cinemaphotographer. Social media is in a spin with claims the trash collection truck does not even work on the nominated day of the accident. Worst of all, Baldwin was said to be driving his wife's car.

Daniel’s head above water

■ Australian pop star Sia is supposedly making it bigtime overseas. The lifestyle suggests she led an expensive existence with her husband, Daniel, in tow. Fifteen months after their wedding it's all over, so the private jet travel, lavish meals and entertaining and paid staff are over and out. Estranged Daniel has filed documents requesting a monthly spousal support of $A385,591 until he can get his finances in order.

All about Bruce

■ Australian audiences are in for a treat with the first ever cinema release about the early days of Bruce Springsteen. Titled Springsteen; DelivermefromNowheremade its debut at the London Film Festival, and Bruce, aged 78 strode down the red carpet. Film was due for Australian release on October 23.

Two pals chatting

■ In a magnificently shot, black and white short film two acting icons in Robert De Niro and Al Pacino , are seen talking about inner warmth subtly promoting the Monders brand of puffer jackets and keeping warm in winter. Short film is about friendship, love and warmth. Catch it if you can online, it is a creative masterpiece.

Popularity polling

■ Talent Quest is a local company who monitor popularity of personalities on Australian TV. Results of latest poll are:

- Robert Irwin

● ● Syd Heylen

with Peter Kemp

With John O’Keefe

● Alec Baldwin

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Lovatts Crossword No 2

Across Across Down Down Observer

1. Full of vitality

6. Took a break

11. Soothes (fears)

15. Protecting

20. Red-rind cheese

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

22. Solemn promise

23. Solid ground, ... firma

25. Anglican church caretaker

26. Ethics

27. Public persona

29. Mania

32. Hind section

34. Ruler, Genghis ...

36. Innocently

39. Colorado ski resort

41. Alexandria is there

43. Titled ladies

46. Lessened

48. Hair dye

49. Madam (2'2)

51. Hideous monster

52. Replanting with trees

55. Long story

56. Arrests

59. Beginning

61. Moderate, ... down

62. Ancient musical instrument

63. Skirmish

64. Sadder (state)

67. Women's court sport

68. Legitimately

70. Japanese hostess

71. Obtained (funds)

72. Womb

73. Academy Awards

74. News stories

75. Encloses

77. Proclamation

78. Comes in

79. Behaviour

82. Simpler

86. Jewish language

87. Biblical son of Isaac

89. Minor planets

92. Gambling chances

94. Acute anxiety

96. In a frenzied state

98. European defence pact

100. Caravan itinerant

101. At a distance

103. Requirement

105. Gallows rope

106. Oil producers' cartel

108. Contest of honour

111. Nursery rhyme, Three Blind ...

112. Utterly exhausted (4,4)

114. Discouraged

116. Domestic helper

119. Actress, ... Thompson

120. Ukraine capital

121. Belonging to that

123. Writer, ... Blyton

124. Restore to health

125. Spectators

126. Senior citizen

127. Gentlest

130. Typist's complaint (1,1,1)

131. Hollering

135. Scrapes (knee)

138. Dad

139. Metal pen-points

141. Premonitions

144. Coal mine waste

146. Food enhancer (1,1,1)

147. Excessively formal

148. Sense of self

149. Established (foundations)

150. Golfing body (1,1,1)

151. Devil's abode

152. Improvised (4,2)

153. October stone

155. Feed (fire)

157. More orderly

158. Twig shelter

160. Atlantic or Indian

161. Huffs

162. Throw up

163. Reside

165. Even further delayed

166. Famous record label (1,1,1)

167. Argentina's ... Peron

168. Yellowish-brown pigment

169. Rush off 171. Nimble

172. Donor

175. Tribal emblem

176. Religious statue 179. Squirm in pain

180. Crowd brawl

182. Wine, ... spumante 184. West Indian music

185. Pop group, Bee ... 186. Kangaroo pouch 188. Germination pod 189. Gearwheel tooth 190. Sixty minutes 191. Crack army force (1,1,1)

193. US space organisation 194. Deal with 196. Cereal bowl

197. Trimmed of fat 198. Aroma

200. More scrumptious 205. Wrath

207. City roads

210. Gorged oneself

211. Last day of April 212. Amongst 213. Leading 214. Household fuel

216. Spoken exam

218. Hordes

219. Was obliged to pay

220. In so far (as)

224. Political stirrer

227. Adversaries

229. Optic organs

230. Valley

231. Happen

232. Mad Roman emperor

233. Data

235. Remove (tape) from VCR

237. You

239. Cheeky smile

241. Skewered meat

244. Great Bear constellation, ... Major

246. Scenery

249. Leer

252. Straight (route)

254. Charted

256. Scattered

258. Of long duration (3-3)

259. Cavalry spear

260. Vigilantly

263. Short period

264. Synagogue scholars

265. Make untidy (4,2)

267. Huts

270. Administer

271. Slid

272. Win

273. Nuclear agreement (4,3)

274. Small herring

277. Liberated

279. Graven image

281. Distributed (cards)

284. Sinks in middle

286. Ark builder

288. Luxuries

292. Power group

294. In present condition (2,2)

295. Fork spike

298. The Suez ...

300. English tennis champ, Fred ...

301. Gaze

303. Boats' spines

306. Thickly

308. Test run

309. Blemish

311. Chunkier (stew)

314. Disorder, cerebral ...

315. Screen legend, Marilyn ...

316. Finance in advance

317. Honourably

318. Fond of, ... on

319. Nazi government, The Third ...

320. Nothing

321. Peevishness

322. Alcove

323. Moved furtively

324. Bed cover

1. Do breaststroke

2. Lamented

3. Garden entrances

4. Brief

5. 12-months

6. Despoil

7. Nailfile (board)

8. Fasten (bolt)

9. Legendary kingdom, El ...

10. Take up again

11. Nearly

12. Robbery

13. Egg centres

14. Dress ribbons

15. Beef-cut for stock

16. Senseless

17. Disregard alarm clock (3,2)

18. Tick over

19. Elapse (2,2)

24. Glimpse

28. Work team

30. Irish sweater style

31. Identify

33. Weirder

35. Maxims

37. Windmill arm

38. Part of ear

40. Bridge-player's bid (2,6)

42. Spurs

44. Polar

45. University compositions

47. Concur

48. Risked

49. Mortuaries

50. Helping

53. Yacht's mooring cushions

54. Treated badly (3-4)

57. Seabird with large wingspan

58. Fluctuates

60. Cotton tops (1-6)

63. Detective story

65. Porridge flakes

66. Proportional, pro ...

68. Decoy

69. Scottish lake

76. Plane terminal

79. Silent

80. Bare

81. Perfume, ... toilette (3,2)

83. Brisbane suburb & racecourse

84. Internal

85. Decompose

88. First animals in dictionary

90. Shade of colour

91. Frosted (biscuits)

93. Tottering

95. Drawing pin

97. Incessantly (2,3,2)

99. Word formed from initials

100. Pleased

102. Dummy pass

104. Waned

107. Danger

109. Author, ... Bronte

110. Bullets

111. Non-glossy

113. Powerful light (3,4)

115. Elevate in rank

117. Spicy lentil dish

118. Futile (attempt)

121. Tel Aviv native

122. Side benefit (4-3)

127. Revolving tray, lazy ...

128. Froths

129. Greatest

132. House seller (6,5)

133. Dormant

134. Rainwater channel

135. Least rough

136. Lack of awareness

137. Most swift

138. Blazed trail

140. Deliverance

141. Vehicle distance gauges

142. Capture spirit of

143. British military academy

145. Collects

151. Sack material

154. Spanish friend

156. Addicts

159. Conger or moray

164. Bustle

169. Battle

170. Large pitchers

173. Prickling

174. Baby birds of prey

177. Desist

178. Approaches

181. Foolish

183. Melting

187. Firebugs

192. Firmly securing

195. Standard

199. Inventor

201. Weaponry

202. Carry-on (2-2)

203. All set

204. Charmer, ... fatale

206. Say

207. Employees

208. Deciduous trees

209. London underground

213. Bump into 215. Prosecutor

217. Appearance

221. Take a nap

222. America, ... Sam

223. Chile's tip, Cape ...

224. Singer's solo

225. Narrow bay

226. Quarrel

228. Swedish tennis ace (5,4)

234. Views

236. Bike rider

238. Radio hobbyist

240. Charged particle

242. UK country

243. Speak to

245. Abating

247. Changed suitably

248. Spirit medium

250. Mouth cosmetic

251. Commercials

253. Chore

255. Discontinued

257. Refuses to (3,1)

258. Your school, ... mater

261. Consumable

262. Mood

265. Intimidate

266. Damascus is there

268. Uplift

269. Vendor

275. Peel (apple)

276. Snakes

278. Make bigger

280. Climb down

282. Compass point

283. Exist

285. Carbonated drink

287. ... & nail

289. Euphoric drugs

290. Topped with breadcrumbs, au ...

291. Sprites

292. Called (of donkey)

293. Part of shoe

296. Ward off

297. Stockings fibre

299. Not anybody (2-3)

302. Stun

304. Lodge deeply

305. Store for future use (3,2)

306. Fall

307. Subsequent

308. Anti-flood embankment

310. Door handle

312. ... of Capri

313. Peruse

By Rob Foenander

Dave’s Award

■ Guitars for Vets founder Dave Cox has received the Victorian Seniors Award for his work in the veteran community.

Since 2017 Dave has worked tirelessly with the G4V project which is now a national program.

Along the way they have provided 650 guitars to countless veterans whose testimonials say they’ve found that the introduction of music into their lives has greatly improved their mental health and outlook to life.

Choir Boys baclk

■ Eighties hard rock and pub band, the Choir Boys, are back.

Part concert, part storytelling, Choirboys celebrates Australian rock n roll in its heyday.

Expect classic stories you were never meant to hear, wild nights, backstage madness, and the kind of insanity only a rock band could survive, as they recall it says their media release.

It’s all happening at the Memo Music Hall, St Kilda, Sunday, May 31. Tickets at trybooking.com

Ron sings Cat

■ Ron Vincent will bring to life the songs of Cat Stevens with a number of performances scheduled around the state.

The Peninsula Theatre Mornington will play host to the internationally acclaimed artist on Sunday, November 16, commencing 3pm.

Tickets at trybooking.com

- Rob Foenander

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Melb. Theatre Company’s 2026 launch

■ Melbourne Theatre Company’s Season 2026 aims to please audiences with a mix of favourites, new works, and some bound-to-be blockbusters.

The following are just a taste of what’s on offer.

Back by popular demand is the acclaimed, award-winning musical adaptation of Miles Franklin’s My BrilliantCareer, with the irrepressible Kala Gare as Sybylla Melvyn.

Dennis McIntosh’s West Gate premieres with Steve Bastoni, Daniela Farinacci , and Lachy Hulme in a drama about the collapse of the iconic Melbourne bridge and its devastating effects.

Alison Whyte stars in Tennessee Williams’s classic American masterpiece, TheGlassMenagerie

The West End hit show, Retrogade, features newcomer Donné Ngabo as a young Sidney Poitier arriving in Hollywood at a time when McCarthyism, racial tension, and the civil rights movement collide.

Jean Tong’s DoNotPassGofeatures Belinda McClory in a sharp satire about system breakdown and coworkers negotiating the generation gap and identity politics.

Marieke Hardy showcases her award-winning acerbic wit in LosingFace, a “perimenopausal Weekend at Bernie’s,” that peels back the façade of the beauty and wellness industries, guaranteeing laughs along the way.

Anne-Louise Sarks directs a new adaptation of Uncle Vanya by Joanna Murray-Smith, featuring Daniel Henshall in the iconic role of Vanya

Crossword Solution No 2

N B R ITS N R O ENID HEAL M T N AUDIENCES PENSIONER L A I SOFTEST R O D L RSI O L Y I YELLING U O U SKINS PAPA NIBS OMENS S N U SLAG P MSG PRIM EGO LAID PGA T HELL A MADEDO N E OPAL FUEL O I NEATER L

NEST R O OCEAN MIFFS VOMIT D T STAY E H LATER D EMI EVA E OCHRE S D FLEE A

The Jungle and the Sea, winner of the 2024 Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for Drama, narrates a family’s incredible journey through Sri Lanka’s decades-long civil war.

Eliza, by Tom Holloway, tells the story of the birth of the AI chatbot. Starring Dan Spielman and Manali Datar, this new play challenges the real cost of this invention.

Before I Forget, by writer-director Kamarra Bell-Wykes, is a play about forgiveness and the unwavering love of family.

A heartfelt, coming-of-age, rom-com, A Room with a View, starring Nathalie Morris, caps off the year with what is sure to be a banger.

Kathryn Keeble

Eva Cassidy

■ A tribute to Eva Cassidy will be at the Royal Brighton Yacht Club on Saturday, November 8 Powerhouse vocalist Nardia Brancatisano brings together the soul-stirring music of two of her greatest inspirations, Etta James and Eva Cassidy, in a captivating tribute that celebrates their timeless artistry. From the raw, fiery blues of Etta James to the delicate, ethereal storytelling of Eva Cassidy, Nardia seamlessly weaves between these two legendary voices, embodying their spirit with her own signature style. There will be renditions of classics such as AtLast,I'dRather GoBlind,WadeintheWater, and FieldsofGold.

Observations

Observations with

● ● Alison Whyte in The Glass Menagerie.

Where to pick up your free copy of The Local Paper

■

■ BALNARRING. Balnarring Village Newspower. Shop 2, 3000 FrankstonFlinders Rd.

■ BALNARRING. Ritchies IGA. Russell St.

■

■

■ BAXTER. Ampol. 1 BaxterTooradin Rd.

■ BAXTER. Liberty Service Station. 161 Moorooduc Hwy.

■ BAXTER. Licensed Post Office.

72 Baxter-Tooradin Rd.

■ ■ BAXTER. Newsagency & Lotto. Shopp 6/96 Baxter-Tooradin Rd.

■ BEACONSFIELD. Fast Fuel. 114

Old Princes Hwy.

■ BEACONSFIELD. Tattslotto. 55

Old Princes Hwy.

■ BERWICK. Newsagency. 29 High St,

■ BERWICK. Parkhill Plaza News and Lotto. Shop 13, 215-225 Pakhill Drive.

■

■ BITTERN. IGA. 2428-2436 Frankston Rd.

■ BLAIRGOWRIE. Cafe. 2837 Point Nepean Rd.

■ BLAIRGOWRIE. United Service Station. 2867 Point Nepean Rd.

■ CAPEL SOUND. The Lott. 1643 Point Nepean Rd.

■ CARRUM DOWNS. 7-Eleven. Frankston-Dandenong Rd (Cnr 10 Amayla Cres)

■ ■ CHELSEA. Longbeach Hotel. 380 Nepean Hwy.

■ CHELSEA. Woolworths Ampol. 469-472 Nepean Hwy.

■

■ CRANBOURNE. Newsagency. 105 High St.

■ CRANBOURNE. Woolworths Caltex. Cnr South Gippsland Hwy and Thompsons Rd.

■ CRANBOURNE NORTH. 7Eleven. 945 South Gippsland Hwy.

■

■ CRIB POINT. Cellars and Newsagency. 182 Stony Point Rd.

■ DANDENONG. Dande Lotto. 308 Thomas St.

■ DANDENONG NORTH. 7-Elevem. 1464 Heatherton Rd.

■ ■ DANDENONG NORTH. Lotto and News. 56 Menzies Ave.

■ DANDENONG SOUTH. United Petroleum. 315 South Gippsland Hwy.

■ ■ DROMANA. 7-Eleven. 335 Point Nepean Rd.

■ DROMANA. Newsagency. 177 Point Nepean Rd.

■ EDITHVALE. Foodworks. 130/131 Station St.

■ ■ FLINDERS. General Store. 48 Cook St.

■ FLINDERS. Hotel. Cnr FrankstonFlinders Rd and Cook St.

■ FRANKSTON. Bayside News and Tatts. 194/28 Beach St.

■ FRANKSTON. Beach Street Newsagency. 237 Beach St.

■ FRANKSTON. Coles Express. 227 Frankston-Flinders Rd and Robinsons Rd.

■ ■ FRANKSTON. Frankston RSL. 183 Cranbourne Rd.

■ FRANKSTON. The National Golf Club - Long Island. 165/235 Frankston-Dandenong Rd.

■ FRANKSTON. Ritchies IGA. Cnr Hastings Rd and Golf Link Rd.

■ ■ FRANKSTON NORTH. IGA Express. 54-56 Mahogany Ave.

■ FRANKSTON SOUTH. Foot St Supermarket and Wine Cellars. 45 Foot St.

■ FRANKSTON SOUTH. Licensed Post Office. 58 Yuille St

■ ■ HALLAM. 7-Eleven. 38-40 Hallam South Rd.,

■ HALLAM. Hallam Square News.

42 Spring Square.

■ LYNBROOK. 7-Eleven. 760 South Gippsland Hwy.

■ ■ LYNBROOK. BP. 7181 South Gippsland Hwy.

■ LYNBROOK. Coles Express. 850 South Gippsland Hwy.

■ McCRAE. Coles. McCrae Plaza. Cnr Nepean Hwy and Lonsdale St.

■ McCRAE. The Lott. 739 Point Nepean Rd.

■ MENTONE. Coles Express. Cnr Nepean Hwy and Warrigal Rd.

■

■ MERRICKS. Merricks General Wine Store. 3460 Frankston-Flinders Rd.

■ MORDIALLOC. Woolworths. 600 Main St.

■ MORNINGTON. 7-Eleven. 893 Nepean Hwy.

■

■ MORNINGTON. Ampol Woolworths. 223 Main St.

■ MORNINGTON. Coles Express. 1010 Nepean Hwy.

■ MORNINGTON. Grand Hotel. 124 Main St.

■

■ MORNINGTON. Newspower. 241 Main St.

■ MORNINGTON EAST. Benton Square News and Tatts. 210 Dunns Rd

■ MOUNT ELIZA. Newsagency. Shop 7/85 Mount Eliza Way.

■

■ MOUNT MARTHA. Beachbox Fish and Chips. 5 Lochiel Ave.

■ MOUNT MARTHA. Dava Hotel. 614 Esplanade.

■

■ MOUNT MARTHA. Newsagency. 2 Lochiel Ave.

■ MOUNT MARTHA. Ritchies Supermarket, 8-16 Lochiel Ave.

■ MULGRAVE. BP Truckstop. Cnr Springvale and Wellington Rds.

■

■

■ NARRE WARREN. Newsagency. 34 Webb St.

■ NARRE WARREN. Ritchies IGA. Shop 4, 14 Webb St.

■ NOBLE PARK. Lucky Star Lotto & Newws. 1268 Heatherton Rd.

Court Lists

Dandenong Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings

Wednesday, October 29

Local Briefs

6000 pet lovers

■

■ HALLAM. Shell Coles Express.

208-210 Princes Hwy.

■ HALLAM. United Petroleum. Cnr

Belgrave-Hallam Rd and Princes Hwy.

■ HASTINGS. 7-Eleven. 1835 Frankston-Flinders Rd.

■ HASTINGS. Coles Express. Cnr

Frankston-Flinders Rd (152 High St)

■ HASTINGS. Lucky Lotto and News. Shop 2/9 Queen St

■ HASTINGS. Post Shop. 68 High St.

■ HASTINGS. Ritchies. Cnr Salmon St & High St.

■ HASTINGS. United. 1996

Frankston-Flinders Rd (Cnr Hodgins Rd)

■ HASTINGS. Westernport Hotel. Cnr Salmon St & High St.

■ KARINGAL. 7-Eleven. 330

Frankston-Cranbourne Rd.

■ KARINGAL. Coles Karingal. Cnr

Karingal Dr and Ashleigh Ave.

■ ■ KEYSBOROUGH. 7-Eleven. 309

Cheltenham Rd (Cnr Kingsclere Rd)

■ KEYSBOROUGH. Ampol. 248

Cheltenham Rd.

■ ■ LANGWARRIN. Ampol Langwarrin. McClelland Dr & Skye Rd

■ LANGWARRIN. Lotto. 230

Frankston Rd.

■

■ LANGWARRIN SOUTH. General Store. Shop 1/143 Warrandyte Rd

■

■ NOBLE PARK. Newsagency. 22

Douglas St.

■ OFFICER. 7-Eleven. Cnr Besper Dr and Princes Hwy.

■ OFFICER. Australia Post. 4 Cardinia Rd.

■

■ OFFICER EAST. 7-Eleven. 496 Princes Hwy.

■ PAKENHAM. Australia Post. 117 Main St.

■ ■ PAKENHAM. Newsagency. 99 Main St.

■ PORTSEA. Portsea Hotel. 3746 Point Nepean Rd.

■ RED HILL. Red Hill General Store.

83 Arthurs Seat Rd.

■

■ ■ RED HILL. United Service Station.

87 Arthurs Seat Rd.

■ RED HILL SOUTH. Cellar and Pantry. 141 Shoreham Rd.

■ ROSEBUD. Newsagency. 1083 Point Nepean Rd.

■

■ ROSEBUD. The Lott Shop. Shop K002,. Rosebud Plaza, Cnr McCombe St and Point Nepean Rd.

■ RYE. Newsagency. 2369-2371 Point Nepean Rd.

■

■ RYE. RSL. 5/11 Neilson St.

■ RYE. Supermarket. 4 Hygeia St.

■ RYE. Whitecliffs General Store. 2507 Point Nepean Rd.

■ SAFETY BEACH. Provincia Food Store. 3/154 Marine Drive.

■ SEAFORD. BP. 298 FrankstonDandenong Rd.

■

■ SEAFORD. Ampol. 467 FrankstonDandenong Rd.

■

■ SEAFORD. Newsagency. 124 Nepean Hwy.

■ SEAFORD. Riviera Hotel. 30 Nepean Hwy.

■ SEAFORD. United Service Station. 267 Seaford Rd.

■ SEAFORD. Woolworths. Cnr Seaford Rd and Nepean Hwy.

■

■ SHOREHAM. Licensed Post Office. 87 Byrnes Rd.

■

■ SOMERVILLE. Coles Express. 1045 Frankston-Flinders Rd.

■

■ SOMERVILLE. Newsagency. 27 Eramosa Rd East.

■ SOMERVILLE. United. 1025 Frankston-Flinders Rd.

■ SORRENTO. News & Books. 66 Ocean Beach Rd.

■ SORRENTO. Stringers Store. 2-8 Ocean Beach Rd.

■

■ SPRINGVALE. Continental Mart. 219 Springvale Rd.

■

■ ■ SPRINGVALE. Newsagency. 32 Springvale Rd.

■ SPRINGVALE SOUTH. 7-Eleven. 581 Springvale Rd.

■ SPRINGVALE SOUTH. Ampol.

747 Springvale Rd.

■ SPRINGVALE SOUTH. BP. 540 Sp[ringvale Rd.

■ TOOTGAROOK. Coles Express. 1825 Point Nepean Rd.

■ ■ TYABB. Flatties Fish and Chips. 1541 Frankston-Flinders Rd.

■ ■ ■ TYABB. United. 1491 FrankstonFlinders Rd.

Abdelmagid, Alaa Ali, Fizza Alizada, Mohammad Ambalavaner, William Romesh Aranda, Christian Barlow, Joel Barone, Daniel Bourke, Brendan Brancatella, Roberto Brewster, Daniel Brown, Mitchell Burton, David Keith Carranza, Balmoris Chernishov, Sergi Chick, Cheryl Claxton, Nathan Coady, Jaquelin Cohen, Sam Costello, Dean Cutajar, Michael D'arcy, Cameron De Sensi, John Delaney, Scott Dowell, Jayden Dynon, Sally-Anne Edes, Samantha El Hennawi, Hoda Etienne, Christopher Louis Faikovski, Ajdin Falzon, Daniel Farrugia, Christopher Farshidinasab, Mahdi Fatai, Siale Finianos, Zac Fitzgerald, Jack Ford, Tahlia Gawoo, Albert Gommers, Joshua Gordon, Daniel Griffiths, Dean Hang, Elya Hang, Emma Alia Hawker, Steven Roy Hay, Thomas Hood-Hughes, Kylie Hussain, Ibrar Huzaifah Abu Samah, Abu Irvine, Dylan Kelly, Stacey Kerkvliet, Luke Kinell, Dean Kohu, Benjamin Kolve, Brent Kumarasinghe, Asanka Kunabalasingam, Prasanthan Kiddinapilli Labrooy, Shane Le, Michael Lekamwasam, Nilantha Li, Jack Lossev, Alex Lual, Lual Lukacs, Brett Lumm, Brayden Mackney, Christian Malaeb, Samer Malhotra, Kanishk Manovic, Marko Mark, Peter John Martin, Martin Mataupu, Seminare Mauot, Barnaba Mcrae, Isara Milovale, Salua Milson, Skye Morgan, David Muzzicato, Joshua Najafi, Sayed Navoa, Jerson Nelson, Ricky Oldfield, Brett Michael Osses, David Payne, Jarrod David Pham, Tony Pich, Jeremy Po, Pheakdey Pov, Chenda Rajapaksha, Nayani Randell, Gregory Read, Melissa Roberts, Elijah Roshid, Harun Samitioata, Setu Saoud, Mahamad Sawyer, Nicole Sayasane, Anthony Schellebeck, Zeke Sheridan, David Thomas Singh, Hardev Singh, Prabhdeep Singh, Rashpal Sisson, Tyson Spokes, Shane Anthony Stewart, Trent Sullivan, Chantelle Sweetnam, Rachel Taaloga, Joseph Tarei Jackson Masuit, Stevie Danam Truong Lai, Hoang Steven Tuel, David Tuibau, Maciu Usama, Usama Vertanin, William Waller, Zoe Walsh-Daniels, Robert Walton, Zachary Wilde, Paul Wilson, Clint Wynne, Matthew Yurtbasi, Recep

Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, October 29 Baker, Denese Marshalette Baker, Rhys Ball, Andrew Balm, Marcus Bao, Zhichun Beeson, Matthew Begg, Marcus Bridge, Andrew Callander, Alana Campanella, Eugene Cashman, Dean Champion, Brett Choul, Moses Ruai Clementson, Christopher Coe, Simon Cui, Kejia Curnow, Elizabeth Grace Dai, Tian Fisher, Carissa Flynn, Brian Gaillard, Jake George Matthews, Renju Gerbing, Matt David Goldsack, Brenton Johnson, Anthony Jubilee, Matatia Kavanagh, Rory Liam Kazenwadel, Dylan Keen, Olivia Madison Khalili, Nasrullah Kotsabouikis, Bill Kouth, Lang Kraft, Paul George Leech, Kiara Liddell, Matthew Maxworth, Lachlan Mcdonald, Justin Daniel Mcguigan, Sandra Mckenzie, Benjamin Mcnamara, Cuthbert Muthuporuthotage, Dishen Mwamuka, Tinotenda Norton, Trent O'rourke, Keith Pastore, Robert Peterson, Marc Phillips, Nathan James Pieterse, Lynton Samuel, Stephen Kim Shanmugalingam, Thanbiah Sheperd, Johanna Snowden, Cameron Stutterd, Mitchell Sutcliffe, Michelle Warner, Jamie David Weinberg, Phillip Weiner, Michael West, Jordan Wren, Ashley Dromana Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Thursday, October 30 Arad, Gil Arnold, Mikhael Bani Hamdan, Fadi Ahmad Barahona, David Barrett, Nicholas Ben-Avi, Sara Bennett, Jeremy Bicsak, Bridget Buchanan, Jason Harvey Burke, Sharon Cannon, Blake Cardamone, Daniel Clarke, Jason Paul Clifford, Darren Cooper, Tim Cowling, Steven Roy Decelis, Simon Denny, Bradley Dietz, Jesse Michael Doyle, Amber Earle, Luke Eastick, Glen Troy Garcia, Cesar Gardner, Brandon Gibson, Dayna Grima, Thomas Hamilton, Daniel Leigh Herschberg, Daniel Heywood, Linda Hondros, Samantha James, Aaron Johnson, Lisa Maree Kandiah, Chandrakumar Khamvilay, Mason Lord, Adam John Lord, Matthew Richard Maher, Benjamin Marsh, Braydon Mason, Matthew Steven Mccubbin, Adrian Mitchell, Stuart Moullet, Andre Niblett, Dean Lawrence Nnle Pty Ltd O'hehir, Troy John Ottobre, Cody Peach, Lauren Elizabeth Phan, Thy Anh Pierce, Nicole Lee Pikoulis, Christos Singh, Sharanbir Stork, Tracey Stylianou, Kristian Tait, Bradley Torosoglu, Hovnan Tre Week, Iesha Von Lagoda, Valerie Warhurst, Joshua Aaron Yasmine, Gharrad

■ More than 6000 pet lovers and their companions gathered at Ballam Park on Sunday, October 19, for The Great Pet-Together

A Frankston City Council representative said this demonstrated that Frankston is the most pet-friendly municipality in Victoria

There was a mix of dogs, cats, turtles, horses, snakes, bees, and pigeons.

Frankston City Councillor Cherie Wanat said it was great to see The Great Pet-Together return to Frankston

“As an animal owner, I’m proud to be part of a council that values and supports pet ownership. The Great Pet-Together is more than just a fun day out - it shows how much we care about animals in our community,” she said.

Frankston City Mayor Cr Kris Bolam, the owner of a cheeky labradoodle named Murphy, said: “Frankston is leading the way when it comes to supporting pet owners. No other council in Victoria offers the breadth of pet incentives and support programs that we do, making us the state’s most pet-friendly city.”

New life for Square

■ Clydesdale Square in Cranbourne has undergone a revitalisation, transformed through a vibrant fusion of art and light.

In a collaboration between the City of Casey’s Community Safety and Visual Arts teams, a creative, art-focused approach has been developed to improve public safety.

Artist-in-residence Fausto, based at the Emerging Arts Hub, worked with Year 9 and 10 Visual Arts students from nearby Cranbourne Secondary College to design customised light projections called Gobo lights

The lights will cast colourful patterns and uplifting messages across the square.

City of Casey Mayor, Cr Stefan Koomen, said: “As Casey continues to grow, it’s vital that we maintain high-quality public spaces that support our communities to connect, thrive and feel proud of where they live.

“Projects like the revitalisation of Clydesdale Square reflect our commitment to building a city that is safe, inclusive, and where everyone feels a sense of belonging.

“From Casey Fields to Bunjil Place, and now here in Cranbourne, we’re delivering on our Council Plan and long-term community vision to be a connected, innovative and resilient city.”

Year 9 and 10 students from Cranbourne Secondary College said: “The artworks invoke feelings of joy with their vibrant colours and fun designs, symbolising comfort to create a safe space in Clydesdale Square.”

The Gobo light installations are at 6.30 pm each evening from October 30.

Plan for the Arts

■ Mornington Peninsula Shire is calling on residents, artists, event organisers and culture lovers to help design the future of arts, culture and events across thde region.

Community consultation is currently open and runs until November 24.

Community sessions are ebing held at:

■ Mornington Main Street Market (118-120 Main St, opposite Cotton On).Wednesday October 29, 9am – 2pm

■ Hill and Ridge Community Market (Red Hill Show Grounds, 184 Arthurs Seat Rd) Saturday, November 1, 9am – 2pm

■ Coolart House Annual Picnic (40 Lord Somers Rd Somers). Sunday, November 2 12 Noon – 4pm

■ Sorrento Info Centre (38 Ocean Beach Rd). Wednesday, November 5, 9am – 12 Noon

■ Bittern Community Market (Bittern Railway Station). Sunday, Nov. 9, 9am – 2pm.

$13m for glass

■ “It is anticipated that implementing the glass bin service will cost approximately estimated cost of $13 million over the first seven years of service,” said a report to Greater Dandenong Councillors this week.

“This estimate includes the costs associated with bin supply and delivery, collection of glass bin, and processing of glass.

“To account for potential cost increases, particularly in bin manufacturing and delivery, a contingency has been applied to the annual service delivery costs.

“The anticipated cost of service over seven year period is based on currently available information and may be subject to change following the completion of the procurement process,” said the report.

SATURDAY’S LOCAL CRICKET FINAL SCORES

Premier

■ Men’s Premier Firsts. Round 3. Two Day. Sats., Oct. 25 and Nov. 1. Carlton 1st XI 5/ 179 v St Kilda 1st XI. Camberwell Magpies

1st XI v Richmond 1st XI 10/240. Northcote 1st XI 1/29 v Ringwood 1st XI 10/203. Dandenong 1st XI 1/74 v Kingston Hawthorn 1st XI 10/197. Casey South Melbourne 1st XI 10/306 v Melbourne 1st XI 2/40. Prahran 1st XI v Geelong 1st XI 9/327. Melbourne University 1st XI 7/246 v Footscray 1st XI. Essendon 1st XI 2/12 v Frankston Peninsula 1st XI 10/ 264. Fitzroy Doncaster 1st XI 0/12 v Greenvale Kangaroos 1st XI 10/242. Seconds. St Kilda 2nd XIc 10/286 v Carlton 2nd XI. Richmond 2nd XI 10/277 v Camberwell Magpies 2nd XI 0/1. Ringwood 2nd XI 1/6 v Northcote 2nd XI 10/243. Kingston Hawthorn 2nd XI 5/54 v Dandenong 2nd XI 10/255. Melbourne 2nd XI 0/12 v Casey South Melbourne 2nd XI 10/326. Geelong 2nd XI 4/255 v Prahran 2nd XI. Footscray 2nd XI 7/264 v Melbourne University 2nd XI. Frankston Peninsula 2nd XI 10/420 v Essendon 2nd XI. Greenvale Kangaroos 2nd XI v Fitzroy Doncaster 2nd XI 5/270. Thirds. Carlton 3rd XI v St Kilda 3rd XI 10/ 217. Camberwell Magpies 3rd XI 2/5 v Richmond 3rd XI 10/309. Northcote 3rd XI v Ringwood 3rd XI 8/298. Dandenong 3rd XI 4d/397 v Kingston Hawthorn 3rd XI 0/22. Casey South Melbourne 3rd XI 4/234 v Melbourne 3rd XI. Prahran 3rd XI v Geelong 3rd XI 8/271. Melbourne University 3rd XI 10/124 v Footscray 3rd XI 5/42. Essendon 3rd XIv v Frankston Peninsula 3rd XI 3/183. Fitzroy Doncaster 3rd XI 10/234 v Greenvale Kangaroos 3rd XI 1/1 Fourths. St Kilda 4th XI 2/149 v Carlton 4th XI 10/148. Richmond 4th XI v Camberwell Magpies 4th XI. Ringwood 4th XI 10/180 v Northcote 4th XI 2/58. Kingston Hawthorn 4th XI 10/238 v Dandenong 4th XI. Melbourne 4th XI 7/336 v Casey South Melbourne 4th XI. Geelong 4th XI 10/66 v Prahran 4th XI 9-d/ 153. Footscray 4th XI 8/158 v Melbourne University 4th XI. Frankston Peninsula 4th XI 1/73 v Essendon 4th XI 10/122. Greenvale Kangaroos 4th XI v Fitzroy Doncaster 4th XI 6/180.

Sub-District

■ East-West 1st XI. Round 2. Two days. Sats., Oct. 18 and 25. Box Hill 1st XI 10/136 & 6/171 v Balwyn 1st XI 8-d/155. Croydon 1st XI 10/200c v Bayswater 1st XI 9/204. Donvale 1st XI 10/190 v Endeavour Hills 1st XI 9/264. Noble Park 1st XI 4/360 v Williamstown 1st XI 10/86 & 5/19. Altona 1st XI 4/155 v Werribee 1st XI 10/153. Hoppers Crossing 1st XI 10/ 258 v Spotswood 1st XI 10/279. Melton 1st XI 10/155 v Taylors Lakes 1st XI 10/144. Yarraville 1st XI 9/244 v Mt Waverley 1st XI 10/90. East-West 2nd XI. Balwyn 2nd XI 9/506 v Box Hill 2nd XI 10/169. Bayswater 2nd XI 10/235 v Croydon 2nd XI 6/384. Endeavour Hills 2nd XI 10/140 v Donvale 2nd XI 10/305. Williamstown 2nd XI 9/316 v Noble Park 2nd XI 10/264. Werribee 2nd XI 7/239 v Altona 2nd XI 10/178. Spotswood 2nd XI 8/306 v Hoppers Crossing 2nd XI 10/151. Taylors Lakes 2nd XI 10/206 v Melton 2nd XI 10/142. Mt Waverley 2nd XI 9/265 v Yarraville 2nd XI 10/ 108 & 7/93.

North-South 1st XI. Brunswick 1st XI 3/ 255 v Strathmore 1st XI 9/253. Ivanhoe 1st XI 10/62 & 9/169 v Caulfield 1st XI 9/260. Kew 1st XI 10/171 v Coburg 1st XI 9/263. Plenty Valley 1st XI 10/158 v Elsternwick 1st XI 10/ 185. Preston 1st XI 8/320 v St Bernard's OC 1st XI 6/219, abandoned. Malvern 1st XI 10/ 284 v Brighton 1st XI 10/159. Moorabbin 1st XI 10/171 v Port Melbourne 1st XI 10/132 & 1/47. Ormond 1st XI 10/113 & 10/59 v Oakleigh 1st XI 10/182.

North-South 2nd XI. Caulfield 2nd XI 10/ 241 v Ivanhoe 2nd XI 10/151. Elsternwick 2nd XI 8-d/226 v Plenty Valley 2nd XI 10/82 & 6/ 123. St Bernard's OC 2nd XI 10/118 v Preston 2nd XI 7/150. Brighton 2nd XI 10/182 v Malvern 2nd XI 10/126. Port Melbourne 2nd XI 8/355 v Moorabbin 2nd XI 10/69 & 3/139. Oakleigh 2nd XI 10/272 v Ormond 2nd XI 10/203. Sundays: Strathmore 2nd XI v Brunswick 2nd XI 8/369. Coburg 2nd XI v Kew 2nd XI 8/247.

North-West 3rd XI. Division 1. Brunswick 3rd XI 10/143 v Preston 3rd XI 6/ 395. Hoppers Crossing 3rd XI 10/199 v Plenty Valley 3rd XI 10/258. St Bernard's OC 3rd XI 10/322 v Werribee 3rd XI 10/152. Taylors Lakes 3rd XI 10/254 v Melton 3rd XI 9/177.

North-West 3rd XI. Division 2. Coburg 3rd XI 7-d/239 v Williamstown 3rd XI 10/133 & 1/51. Ivanhoe 3rd XI 10/146 v Altona 3rd XI 10/134. Strathmore 3rd XI 6/302 v Spotswood 3rd XI 7/161. Yarraville 3rd XI 10/77 & 10/ 107 v Kew 3rd XI 5-d/269.

North-West 4th XI. Division 1. Preston 4th XI 10/155 v Brunswick 4th XI 7/203. Plenty Valley 4th XI 10/125 v Hoppers Crossing 4th XI 7/212. Werribee 4th XI v St Bernard's OC 4th XI 6/297. Melton 4th XI 10/186 v Taylors Lakes 4th XI 8/144, abandoned.

North-West 4th XI. Division 2. Williamstown 4th XI 10/181 v Coburg 4th XI 8/344. Altona 4th XI 8/264 v Ivanhoe 4th XI 10/117. Spotswood 4th XI 10/186 v Strathmore 4th XI 6/188. Kew 4th XI 10/241 & 2/25 v Yarraville 4th XI 10/69.

South-East 3rd XI. Division 1. Croydon 3rd XI 10/81 & 8/184 v Mt Waverley 3rd XI 10/186. Malvern 3rd XI 10/144 & 10/80 v Elsternwick 3rd XI 3-d/216 & 0/10. Oakleigh 3rd XI 10/213 v Caulfield 3rd XI 5/220. Sunday: Bayswater 3rd XI 1/9 v Balwyn 3rd XI 10/ 202.

South-East 3rd XI. Division 2. Box Hill 3rd XI 10/123 & 10/140 v Donvale 3rd XI 10/ 163 & 5/104. Brighton 3rd XI 10/251 v Noble Park 3rd XI 9/175. Endeavour Hills 3rd XI 10/ 155 & 6/59 v Port Melbourne 3rd XI 10/126. Moorabbin 3rd XI 10/175 & 6/115 v Ormond 3rd XI 10/172.

South-East 4th XI. Division 1. Mt Waverley 4th XI 8/241 v Croydon 4th XI 10/ 134. Caulfield 4th XI 10/110 & 3/47 v Oakleigh 4th XI 10/82. Balwyn 4th XI 2-d/212 v Bayswater 4th XI 10/146 & 8/23. Sunday: Elsternwick 4th XI 4/151 v Malvern 4th XI 9-d/ 72.

South-East 4th XI. Division 2. Noble Park 4th XI 10/180 v Brighton 4th XI 10/212. Port Melbourne 4th XI 10/149 v Endeavour Hills 4th XI 10/126 & 10/99. Ormond 4th XI 10/ 230 v Moorabbin 4th XI 8/223. Sunday: Donvale 4th XI 10/133 v Box Hill 4th XI 9/ 172.

Diamond Valley

■ Barclay Shield. Round 3. Two Days Sat.Sun., Oct. 25-26. Bundoora United 1st XI v Epping 1st XI 9/178. Heidelberg 1st XI 8/201 v North Eltham Wanderers 1st XI. Macleod 1st XI 7/174 v Rosebank 1st XI. Riverside 1st XI v Bundoora 1st XI 5/181. Rosanna 1st XI 7/228 v Diamond Creek 1st XI.

Money Shield. Plenty 1st XI 9/133 vResearch Eltham Collegians 1st XI. Greensborough 1st XI v Lower Plenty 1st XI 8/ 123. Mernda 1st XI 2/185 v Montmorency 1st XI. Bundoora Park 1st XI 6/126 v Banyule 1st XI. Lalor Stars 1st XI 3/123 v Eltham 1st XI. Mash Shield. Hurstbridge 1st XI 4/149 v Panton Hill 1st XI. Mill Park 1st XI 10/68 v Rivergum 1st XI 4/106. Lower Eltham 1st XI v Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 1st XI 9/222. Thomastown 1st XI 7/177 v Dennis 1st XI. Thomastown United 1st XI v Laurimar 1st XI 10/139. Keon Park CC 1st XI 10/117 v South Morang 1st XI 1/10.

B-Grade. Banyule 2nd XI v Mernda 2nd XI. Diamond Creek 2nd XI v Riverside 2nd XI, abandoned. Research Eltham Collegians 2nd XI v Rosanna 2nd XI. North Eltham Wanderers 2nd XI v Plenty 2nd XI. Montmorency 2nd XI v Heidelberg 2nd XI, abandoned.

C-Grade. Bundoora 2nd XI 9/197 v Macleod 2nd XI 10/83. Eltham 2nd XI 1/128 v Riverside 3rd XI 10/123. South Morang 2nd XI 6/227 v Lalor Stars 2nd XI 3/112. Lower Plenty 2nd XI 7/141 v Bundoora United 2nd XI 8/142. Rivergum 2nd XI 5/164 v Greensborough 2nd XI 6/166.

D-Grade. North Eltham Wanderers 3rd XI 0/60 v Bundoora Park 2nd XI 10/186, abandoned. Laurimar 2nd XI 5/215 v Diamond Creek 3rd XI 0/22, abandoned. Keon Park CC 2nd XI 7/216 v Montmorency 3rd XI, abandoned.

Panton Hill 2nd XI 2/65 v Hurstbridge 2nd XI 10/163, abandoned. Rosebank 2nd XI 0/19 v Mill Park 2nd XI 10/80, abandoned. Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 2nd XI 9/182 v Lower Plenty 3rd XI 5/181

E-Grade. South Morang 3rd XI 5/56 v Mernda 3rd XI 10/145, abandoned. Greensborough 3rd XI 3/160 v Thomastown United 2nd XI 8/159. Riverside 4th XI 8/157 v Banyule 3rd XI 1/22, abandoned. Dennis 2nd XI 10/93 v Lower Eltham 2nd XI 1/94. Thomastown 2nd XI: Bye.

Eastern

■ Dunstan Shield. Round 2. Two days. Sats., Oct. 18 and 25. Mont Albert 1st XI 5/ 182 v Edinburgh 1st XI 10/181. Old Carey 1st XI 6/189 v Glen Iris 1st XI 7/319. North Balwyn 1st XI 8/343 v East Malvern Tooronga 1st XI 10/202. Bulleen 1st XI 10/162 v East Doncaster 1st XI 9-d/236 Wright Shield. Canterbury 1st XI 10/148 v Heathmont 1st XI 10/284. Surrey Hills 1st XI 7/312 v Marcellin OC 1st XI 10/228. Richmond City 1st XI 8/248 v Deepdene Bears 1st XI 10/204. Ashburton Willows 1st XI 10/207 v Mulgrave 1st XI 10/254.

A Turf. Boronia 1st XI 10/162 v Ashwood 1st XI 4/164. Burwood 1st XI 10/294 v Balwyn Saints 1st XI 10/267 & 2/68. Mazenod OC 1st XI 4/275 v Old Carey 2nd XI 10/271. Hawthorn Boroondara 1st XI 10/278 v Mont Albert 2nd XI 10/94 & 4/152.

B Turf. Richmond Union 1st XI 8/379 v Canterbury 2nd XI 10/130. Heathmont 2nd XI 5/337 v Bulleen 2nd XI 7-d/336. East Doncaster 2nd XI 6/313 v St. Kevins Old Boys 1st XI 10/283. Deepdene Bears 2nd XI 6/280 v North Balwyn 2nd XI 10/174.

C Turf. Edinburgh 2nd XI 5-d/200 v Hawthorn Boroondara 2nd XI 10/157. Glen Iris 2nd XI 10/371 v La Trobe University 1st XI 10/114 & 5/214. East Malvern Tooronga 2nd XI 10/ 140 v Boronia 2nd XI 7/141. Mulgrave 2nd XI 7-d/158 v Burwood 2nd XI 10/135 & 3/98.

D Turf. Ashwood 2nd XI 9/328 v Richmond City 2nd XI 9/253. Old Carey 3rd XI 10/206 v Ashburton Willows 2nd XI 7/210. Marcellin OC 2nd XI 9-d/226 v Mazenod OC 2nd XI 9/156. Sunday: Mont Albert 3rd XI 0/15 v Surrey Hills 2nd XI 10/226.

E Turf. La Trobe University 2nd XI 10/79 v Surrey Hills 3rd XI 8/171. Balwyn Saints 2nd XI 10/109 & 10/169 v Richmond Union 2nd XI 8-d/229. Hawthorn Boroondara 3rd XI 10/154 & 8/124 v Edinburgh 3rd XI 5-d/235. Heathmont 3rd XI 1-d/233 v Marcellin OC 3rd XI 9/109 & 6/116. East Malvern Tooronga 3rd XI 10/169 v Deepdene Bears 3rd XI 8/171. F Turf. Ropund 3. One Day. East Doncaster 3rd XI 4/147 v East Malvern Tooronga 4th XI 8/ 146. St. Kevins Old Boys 2nd XI 6/70 v Heathmont 4th XI 5/238, abandoned. Surrey Hills 4th XI 9/149 v Mont Albert 4th XI 2/150. Richmond City 3rd XI 6/131 v Bulleen 3rd XI 4/133.

MacGibbon Shield. Round 2. Two Days. Sats., Oct. 18-25. West Ivanhoe United 1st XI 10/142 v Trinity Willison 1st XI 9-d/413. Deepdene Uniting 1st XI 7/250 v Holy Trinity 1st XI 10/242. Glen Waverley 1st XI 10/90 & 10/194 v Burwood Unt. Canterbury 1st XI 10/ 77 & 6/175. STC South Camberwell 1st XI 10/ 100 & 10/77 v Clifton Hill 1st XI 5-d/257. Burt Shield. Clifton Hill 2nd XI 10/116 & 1/37 v Toorak Prahran 1st XI 10/246. Trinity Willison 2nd XI 10/236 v St. Paul's Oakleigh District 1st XI 5/240. Holy Trinity 2nd XI 3/ 189 v Glen Waverley 2nd XI 10/188. Burwood Unt. Canterbury 2nd XI 8-d/172 v North Alphington 1st XI 10/158.

Morn. Peninsula

■ Provincial Firsts. Round 3. Two days. Sats., Oct. 18 and 25. Red Hill 1sts 6/176 v Mornington 1sts 10/123. Dromana 1sts 10/ 244 v Pines 1sts 10/272. Sorrento 1sts 10/ 269 v Langwarrin 1sts 7/271. Heatherhill 1sts 10/151 v Baden Powell 1sts 8/275. Peninsula Firsts. Seaford CC 1sts 9/180 v Balnarring 1sts 10/234. Somerville 1sts 9/ 43 & 6/90 v Old Peninsula 1sts 7/272.

Moorooduc 1sts 10/98 & 10/44 v Long Island 1sts 8-d/175. Rosebud 1sts 8-d/122 v Mt Eliza 1sts 10/82 & 7/88. District Firsts. Flinders 1sts 10/121 & 4/ 96 v Rye 1sts 9-d/145. Crib Point 1sts 7/154 v Seaford Tigers 1sts 10/150. Boneo 1sts 10/ 137 v Carrum Downs 1sts 8/138. Carrum CC 1sts 7/190 v Main Ridge 1sts 10/189. Roy Dore Reserve / East Oval Sub-District Firsts. Tyabb 1sts 6/164 v Delacombe Park 1sts 10/162. Frankston YCW 1st 10/175 v Baxter 1sts 1/40. Ballam Park 1sts 10/197 v Mt Martha 1sts 4/47. Pearcedale 1sts 10/119 & 10/151 v Tootgarook 1sts 9-d/ 263 & 0/13. Bye: Skye 1sts

North Metro

■ Jika Shield. Round 3. Two Days. Sats., Oct. 18-25. Fiji Victorian CC 1st XI 4/204 v Camrea Stingrays CC 1st XI 9/198. Olympic Colts CC 1st XI 6/186 v Donath CC 1st XI 10/ 184. Northern Socials CC 1st XI 10/61 & 9/ 135 v Preston Baseballers CC 1st XI 4-d/219. Jack Quick Shield. Cameron CC 1st XI 7/ 119 v Bellfield Bulls CC 1st XI 9/320, abandoned. Strathewen Cougars CC 1stXI 9-d/264 v West Preston CC 1st XI 9/166. Reservoir Cobras CC 1st XI 10/200 v Fiji Victorian CC 2nd XI 10/207.

Jack Kelly Shield. Preston Baseballers CC 2nd XI 8/195 v Ivanhoe Mavericks CC 1st XI 6/ 198. Preston YCW District 1st XI 9/180 v Fairfield CC 1st XI 10/69 & 7/55. West Preston CC 2nd XI 4/137 v Royal Park Reds 3rd XI 10/ 207, abandoned.

B-Grade. Fiji Victorian CC 3rd XI 10/180 v West Preston CC 3rd XI 9/131. Bellfield Bulls CC 2nd XI 7/192 v Northern Socials CC 2s XI 10/191. Fairfield CC 2nd XI v Wollert Rhinos CC 1st XI 7/402

C-Grade. Royal Park Reds 4th XI 10/146 v Reservoir Cobras CC 2nd XI 10/171. Camrea Stingrays CC 2nd XI 8/318 v Bellfield Bulls CC 4th XI 10/160. Preston Baseballers CC 3rd XI 7-d/226 v Fiji Victorian CC 4th XI 10/62 & 8/ 100. Bellfield Bulls CC 3rd XI 8/168 v Olympic Colts CC 2nd XI Forfeit 2/25. DODC. Round 2. Kinglake CC OD v Cameron CC OD, abandoned. Donath CC OD 3/90 v Preston YCW District OD 8/163. Bye: Camrea Stingrays CC OD

Ringwood District

■ A-Grade. Round 3. Two Days. Satzs., Oct. 18-25. Heatherdale 3XI 4-d/162 v St Andrews 4XI 10/147. Norwood 4XI 9-d/103 v Wantirna South 3XI 10/70. Mooroolbark 3XI 4-d/221 v Wonga Park 4XI 10/175. Powelltown 1XI 4/ 126 v South Croydon 3XI 9/105. B-Grade. Kilsyth 4XI 10/180 & 2/62. v Mooroolbark 4XI 6-d/380. Mt Evelyn 3XI 10/ 250 v Coldstream 2XI 10/102 & 7/70. South Warrandyte 3XI 8/73 v Templeton 3XI 3/245. Heathwood 3XI 10/146 v Warrandyte 4XI 10/ 191. Bill Wilkins Cup. Round 3. Wantirna South 1XI 10/232 v Mt Evelyn 1XI 10/298. Warranwood 1XI 10/111 v Bayswater Park 1XI 8/117. Wonga Park 1XI 8/192 v Mooroolbark 1XI 3/193. East Ringwood 1XI 4/222 v Kilsyth 1XI 9/217. Heatherdale 1XI 10/117 v Vermont 1XI 7/118.

C-Grade. Wantirna 1XI 7/243 v Chirnside Park 4XI 10/239. Warrandyte 5XI 1-d/169 v Healesville 3XI 10/118. St Andrews 5XI 9/305 v North Ringwood 4XI 10/165. East Ringwood 4XI 10/175 v Croydon Ranges 4XI 6/364.

South-East

■ Longmuir Shield. One Day. East Sandringham 1 10/150 v West Bentleigh 1 9/ 182. Washington Park 1 10/105 v Bentleigh Uniting 1 7/173. Kingston Heath 1 10/80 v Bentleigh ANA 1 5/290. Brighton Union 1 9/ 192 v Le Page Park 1 7/198.

Western

■ A-Grade. Round 3. two Days. Sats., Oct. 18-25. Altona Sports 1st XI 10/223 v Truganina Strikers CC Yellow 1st XI 7-d/310. Manor Lakes 2nd XI 9-d/308 v AA Tarneit 1st XI 10/129 & 8/ 173. Williams Landing SC 1st XI 10/221 v West Point Titans 2nd XI 9/251.

LIGHTNING FAST TRACK AT TERANG

■ A massive 10-race program of great racing was held on a lightning fast track at Terang on Monday October 20 with mixed results throughout the evening.

Great Western’s Michelle Wight was successful with 5Y0 A Rocknroll Dance-Parfait Bromac mare Nosweetsforyou in the 2180 metre Matthews Petroleum Pace Final.

Taken back to the rear from inside the second line as Watch It Happens led from gate two, Nosweetsforyou was sent forward three wide once the speed slackened to park outside the pacemaker before crossing to the front racing for the bell.

Kicking clear approaching the home turn, Nosweetsforyou recorded a strong nine metre margin in advance of Double The Hunter (gate five – one/one) to be outside the winner or the last lap, with A Rocknroll Jet (gate six –one/two) running on late for third a half head away. The mile rate 2-00.2.

■ Local reinsman Mattie Craven was responsible for a driving victory aboard the Shannon Edwards Hamilton part-owned and trained first starter Colossal Hope in the Maddens Lawyers Maiden Pace over 2180 metres and a training success with Roadmaster in the fast class feature the Warrnambool Seaside Harness Racing Club Pace over 1680 metres.

■ Colossal Hope, a 4Y0 gelded son of Cullens Hope and Sayaka bred by Shannon was ultra impressive in his victory after racing uncovered from gate five outside the raging hot favourite Jilliby Kymy Lou (gate two).

Holding a margin on turning, Jilliby Kymy Lou was grabbed in the last stride by Colossal Hope showing a great desire to win by a neck returning a mile rate of 2-00.7.

Talkbabytalk (gate four - one/one) was third 7.3 metres away. Roadmaster driven by Mattie’s partner Amy Day was caught in the breeze from gate four when polemarker Telemachus began best to lead.

Applying pressure to assume control at the bell, Roadmaster defied all challengers to score by 4.3 metres from Odin (three pegs from gate three) after gaining a split in the straight, with Young Bluey and Mattie Craven which was restrained to the rear from outside the front line moving one/one on the back of solo second liner Beyond Delight at the bell and three wide on the final bend third a half head away. The mile rate 1-55.

■ Matty Horsnell provided 3Y0 Jilliby Kung Fu-Jilliby Tamaka gelding Shifu raced by the local Lenehan family to land the Miss Kit Beauty Therapy & Make Up Academy Pace. Driven by Glen Craven, Shifu went forward from outside the front line to race exposed outside We Favour Rosie (gate four) before easing to be one/one at the bell. Angling three wide in the straight to follow Eastbro Kozzy (gate two) which had moved three wide in the last lap from three back, Shifu sprinted swiftly to blouse a game Eastbro Kozzy by a head, with Grinning Beach Boy (gate five – outside the leader – one/one –one/two) third 2.1 metres back. The mile rate 2-00.3.

■ Skibo part-owner/trainer Rory Coverdale snared an exciting 1680 metre Raffertys Tavern Pace with Gunforhire, a 4Y0 gelded son of Betting Line and Left For Dead. Leading out from gate three, Gunforhire relinquished the lead to Wild Bull (gate four) when Glen Craven showed he was desperate to lead giving Gunforhire a cosy trip. With five horses spread across the track halfway up the running, it was anyone’s race until Gunforhire using the spirint lane dashed to the wire in the shadows of the post to record a head margin over Luva Scrap (gate five – three wide – one/one) which became pocketed as Eastbro Chrissy moved three wide from the rear in the last lap to put him in a tight pocket. Wild Bull held third a nose away a half head clear of Ranger Rick which had gone forward three wide mid-race to join Wild Bull. The rate 1-55.4.

Night feature

■ Two meeting were held on Tuesday night –Mildura taking the night’s feature the $12,500 Lister Family Mildura 3Y0 Guineas over 2190 metres, while at Shepparton the highlight was the Lindsay Park Racing Trotters Mobile over 2190 metres.

It was a great card at Mildura with the Guineas a thrilling race taken out by Kooreh (St Arnaud) brothers Shaun and Jason McNaulty’s Sportswriter-Kayteeoh Denario gelding Zenario who was brilliant in winning. Making his ninth race appearance (3 wins), Zenario driven by Charlton based Luke Dunne

Harness Racing

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker

settled four back in the running line after easing away from an inside second line draw with Williams first up for Alby Ashwood and Jack Laugher burning across from gate five to cross Adelaide hope Harlem Town (gate three) leaving Ruff Nut (gate three second line) in the breeze being trailed by Mister Boombastic (gate four) and the hot favourite Miki B a Kiwi second up in Oz after winning at Shepparton a week earlier.

Miki B was first to make a move in the back straight on the final occasion going forward three wide, with Zenario immediately latching to his back.

Despite receiving a check on the final bend and galloping for a few strides losing momentum, Zenario regaining his composure set sail after the three leaders Williams, Ruff Nut and Miki Be who was struggling to get on terms with the other two on the home turn and Zenario chasing but giving away a tidy start.

Charging home well into the straight, Zenario finished fast to prevail by 1.2 metres in a performance that had to be seen to be believed, defeating a game Ruff Nut, with Miki B a half head away third. The mile rate 1-57.5 (last half 58.4 – quarter 29.2).

■ The Swan Hill Cup October 31st Pace over 1790 metres saw Aaron Dunn’s much improved Shadow Play-Visual Image 7Y0 gelding Maxy Wants To Play victorious in a 1-57.3 mile rate. Driven by the stable’s Ryan Backhouse who is no stranger to success at Mildura, Maxy Wants To Play came out quickly from gate five to cross local hope Cemetery Bay (gate four) and allowed to bowl at his leisure, couldn’t be caught, reaching the judge by a big 10 metre margin clear of Cemetery Bay and roughie My Ultimate Billy (gate 3) who was a head away third after following the pair.

■ It was race caller Luke Humphreys the voice of Mildura’s last night of calling as he is shifting to South Korea to be that country’s English speaking caller commencing next month and the aptly named Luke Humphreys Good Luck In Korea Pace over 2190 metres saw 9Y0 Caribbean Blaster- Imfullofuel gelding Flame Blaster for Red Cliffs part-owner/trainer Robert Nolan successful giving Luke Dunne another winner on the program.

Trapped in the open from gate five outside leader Rimu Valley (gate six) before gaining a trail when Im Stuck Man (one/one) vacated the one/one spot to race uncovered mid-race, Flame Buster finished best out wide to gain the day by 3.2 metres in 2-01 mile rate from Im Alright Jack (one/two mid-race from the tail), with Ultimate Rocker (gate four – behind the leader) after leading out and handing up third a metre back. The mile rate 2-01.

■ It would be remiss of me not to mention the True Mildura Style Pace, a ‘Lukeism’ that he came up with a number of seasons back, taken out by $$22.90 outsider Watchtheclock for Broken Hill trainer Anthony Schrembi driven by Adelaide’s Michael Smith.

Settling mid-field from gate three on the second line after Cruz With Rome (inside second line) had gone forward after being extricated away from the markers as the favourite Hungry Hogarth (gate three) had gone to sit outside the leader Shes Poppy (gate four) before taking over shortly after.

Despite the tough run, Watchtheclock was too tough at the business end, scoring by 7.1 metres over Cheers Poverty (gate five – three pegs) which had followed the leader and was now three pegs before running home late. Hungry Hogarth was third a head away. The mile rate 2-01.

■ At Shepparton, 4Y0 Aldebaran Eagle-Im Princess Sophie mare Keayang Brandy

brought up three wins in succession when taking the Lindsay Park Racing Trotters Mobile over 2190 metres.

Trained by Lisa Pitt at Girgarre and driven by husband Mark, Keayang Brandy after starting his career with the Terang Lee stable had a number of changes before joining the Pitt’s and hasn’t looked back.

Starting from the extreme draw, Keayang Brandy in a fast run race set by Sonnyboy and gradually crept forward to take over mid-race before blitzing his rivals to record a untouched 12 metre margin over Manda Kyvalley which battled on gamely after racing exposed, with Settle The Bill 12.4 metres away third.

■ Nine-year-old Mach Three-Western Spirit gelding Valiente at start number 141 recorded his 17th success (30 placings) when an easy winner of the 2190 metre Hygain Sales & Export Team Pace.

Trained by Ben Pell at Leichardt and driven by Tasmyn Potter, Valiente (gate two second line) settled three back in the moving lane as Junee visitor Unchainmyart led from gate three for Bruce Harpley.

Going forward three wide in the last lap, Valiente was much too strong for his rivals, accounting for Our Cheeky Devil which trailed the leader from the pole easing wide on turning by 3 metres in a 1-58.1 mile rate. Chirripo (gate two) was third 2.8 metres back after trailing the winner home.

At Bendigo

■ Bendigo raced on Wednesday and there is no horse racing better at present than Charlton trainer Leon Fanning’s 5Y0 Always B Miki-Hanover Chance gelding Fair Chance who brought up three wins in succession by taking the Great Ocean Road Real Estate Vicbred Voucher Mares Pace over 1650 metres in a slick mile rate of 1-55.6.

Raced by Leon in partnership with breeder/ partner Andrea O’Gorman, Fair Chance driven as usual by a very much in-form Luke Dunne followed through beautifully from gate two on the second line to possie three back as polemarker Princess Arna led before relenting to the pressure of Mussel Shoals and Doc Wilson (gate five).

Angling three wide in the last lap Fair Chance joined the leaders on the final bend and did best to record her 7th victory in 48 outings, defeating Princess Arna along the sprint lane by 1.4 metres, with Lilstrepo (gate three) a half neck away third after racing exposed and taking a slender lead on the final bend.

■ Pompapiel part-owner/trainer John Davidson’s 6Y0 Used To Me-Estee Poppy gelding Frankythefrenchman was finally rewarded for some great runs of late when successful in the $6,000 Haras Des Trotteurs Trot Final over 2150 metres.

Driven by Chris Alford who had been handling him of late, Frankythefrenchman was trapped three wide from gate six before going forward to park outside the leader and heat winner Inspire (gate four), receiving cover when Macho Maori (outside the front line) moved to race in the open.

Easing three wide running into the home turn, Frankthefrenchman ran home best to prevail by 3.9 metres from The Night Queen (gate five) off the back of the pacemaker, with Jessicas Story coming from near last at the bell for third a half head away. The mile rate 208.2.

■ Marong co-owner/trainers Terry and Jacinta Allan-Gange landed the Dual Code Halloween Meeting 28th October Trotters Mobile over 2150 metres with ultra-consistent 7Y0 Changeover-Jomeka gelding Bullapark Beno. With James Herbertson driving, Bullapark Beno close up in recent runs settled one/one from gate six before being shuffled back a spot after Tough Mate starting from the extreme draw was off and running to join the poleline leader Apex.

Gaining a three wide trail forward on the back of old timer Dels Destiny (gate two - one/ one) which raced clear on the home turn, Bullapark Beno chased strongly to score by 2.7 metres from Dels Destiny which fought back gamely. Mielicki (gate five) a stablemate of Dels Destiny after being pushed back from three pegs at one stage made many yards on turning for third albeit 19.9 metres back. The mile rate 2-03.5.

8-race card

■ It was Kilmore trots on Thursday with a good eight race card taking place, punters

Sulky Snippets Sulky Snippets

This Week

■ Wednesday – Kyabram @ Shepparton, Thursday – Ballarat, Friday – Maryborough/ Swan Hill (Cup) , Saturday – Melton, Sunday – Maryborough, Monday – Charlton, Tuesday – Shepparton.

looked to be behind the eight ball following the first two races which were rough results, however things improved as the night progressed.

■ Popular Darraweit/Bolinda part-owner/ trainer Alex Hurley snared the opening race the Coulter Legal Pace over 1690 metres with 4Y0 Alta Christiano-Tourbillon Dargent gelding Altius much to the delight of the large syndicate who race him.

Driven by neighbour Tristan Larsen, Altius was driven with aggression from the pole, but couldn’t hold out 12Y0 gelding Iamawingate (gate four) which began with great speed and enjoyed a beaut trail on his back.

Using the sprint lane, Altius ran home along the sprint lane to just get there by a a nose over a death-seating Caruso Star (one/two last lap) returning a slick mile rate of 1-55.6, The well supported Maxbeca (one/three from the extreme draw – three wide at the bell) dropped into the one/one for a short breather in the last lap before easing three wide on turning to finish third 4.8 metres away.

■ Ali could easily have brought up a double when stablemate Spun Silver (extreme draw) finished third in the 1690 metre Picklebet “Get Your Pickle On” Pace taken out by local trainer Tom Parnell’s 4Y0 Always B Miki-Dolly Jasper gelding Miki Mark who’s latest and only victory had been at the same track in October 2024.

Driven by Rita Burnett, Miki Mark settled four back in the moving line as polemarker Atomic Glory led before handing over to Self Exclusion (gate six) which had been trapped wide.

Going forward three wide in the last lap and five wide on straightening, Miki Mark charged home down the outside fence to prevail by 1.3 metres in a rate of 1-58.4 from Atomic Glory along the sprint lane, with Spun Silver driven brilliantly saving every inch of ground from well back along the inside in the last lap using the sprint lane for third 2.4 metres back.

■ New Gisborne part-owner/trainer/driver Darren Pace led throughout aboard Kiwi bred American Ideal-Rakarata filly Rakarompa from gate four in the 1690 metre Styles Construction Pace to register a nice victory. Never looking in any danger, Rakarompa coasted to the wire 14.2 metres in advance of a death-seating Bella Louise from outside the front line, with Wallan hope Anakin (four pegs from inside the second line runni9ng on late for third 1.7 metres back. The rate 1-57.4.

■ The 2189 metre Broadstead Kilmore Trotters Mobile saw Rockbank owner/trainer Freddy Spiteri land a spectacular plunge when 7Y0 Love You-I Am Majestic gelding Te Amo backed from around $13 in the morning quote to run favourite at $3.30.

Driven by Bendigo’s Jack Laugher, Te Amo first up since May began fast from outside the front line to lead all of the way, accounting for Kyvalley Mariachi (gate 6) which galloped away before going forward at the bell to drop to the back of the winner for the last lap. The Italian Dream (one/one from inside the second line) was third 1.7 metres back. The mile rate 2-05.

■ The C&M Build Group Concession Drivers Pace over 1690 metres went the way of Derrinal (Heathcote) trainer Glenn Bull’s 7Y0 Sunshine Beach-Dilinger Girl gelding Animado in a mile rate of 1-57.3. Driven by Huntly’s Lauren White, Animado was taken back to the rear from outside the front line as local hope Highview Hammer led from gate four with Nick Beale in the sulky. Giving the leaders a tidy start in the last lap, Animado gradually made ground in the last lap and despite making the final bend five wide, sprouted wings to record a runaway 1.5 metre victory over Highview Hammer which had no answer to his finishing burst. Len Baker

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FREE PHOTO ADS

BRICKS. 500. Clean, as new $400. 100 face bricks, $120. New. Bittern. 0419 582 437. PP-TT

BRICKLAYERS TUBE & CLIP SCAFFOLDING TUBES clips swivels joiners putlog clips base plates sole boards Oregon planks. Genuine offers only enquires welcome GC. $6000. Crib Point. 0419 935 807 PP-TT

ALUMINIUM PUNT 4 metre, with all required safety equipment with relocatable folding seats plus 77.5hp Mercury outboard motor. GC. $1600. Seymour. 0410 032 064. NN-QQ

BARBECUE. Weber. With instruction book. Hardly used. New: $369. Sell $1009. Mt Martha 5973 4163. JJ-NN

BARBIE Dolls and barbie Dresses. GC. 10 for $250. Surrey Hills. 0410 626 110, 4pm-10pm. RR-VV

BATHROOM TILES. To cover 270sq m. EC. $60. Ferntree Gully. 9758 3950. HH-LL

BBQ. Gas. 5-Burner. Wheels. New ignition assembly. Full gas bottle. EC. $100. Pascoe Vale. 04129 138 356. RR-VV

BBQ. Red Centre. 45cm round. Large cast iron plate trivet for boiling. Also hose and wind shield. New, still in box. $45. Bittern. 0459 558 055 RR-VV

BED. 3-seater and two seater. Red, vinyl. Dark wood trims. VGC. $300. Cranbourne, 0401 898 413. HH-LL

BED. Electric. King Size. High low. Head comes up to sitting position. Legs raise, bed tilts. 12 months old. No longer needed. Top quality mattress. EC. $3500. Yea. 0409 944 982. LL-OO

BIKE. Lady’s. Purple. Make: Huffey Friction. Complete with helmet and pump and basket. VGC. $120. Pakenham. 5940 5018. LL-OO

BOOKS. Large variety. Various authors. $2, or 3 for $5. Heathmont. 0423 720 137. HH-LL

BOOKS. Collection of Mary Grant vintage books. Mostly VGC with dust jack- ets. Offers welcome. Research. 9437 1253. JJ-NN

BOOSTER SEAT. Mothers hoice. Convertible. 6 months to 8 years. VGC. $40. Whittlesea. 0494 380 264. HH-LL

PRIVATE SELLERS can have a free 40-word ‘For Sale’ ad - plus a single colour photo - in The Local Paper Classifieds to sell their items. Your free ad will appear in all editions of The Local Paper, covering all suburbs of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula, and selected Victorian country areas. Your free ad will appear in up to 4 issues. There are no charges, no commissions. T&Cs apply. Lodge your ad at: www.AdvertiseFree.com.au

ELECTRIC WHEELCHAIR. ‘Pride Go Mobility Chair’. Hardly used. EC. $1400. Viewbank. John, 0418 583 120. LL-OO

ENCYCLOPEDIA. Complete set A-Z. GC. $60 ONO. Frankston. 9789 9634. HH-LL

FISHER PAYKEL Fridge Freezer. 8 months old. New. Cost $870, sell $400. Keysborough. Joe, 0402 385 692.HH-LL

CARAVAN. Millard Grand Champion 17 FT Air/ con 3 way fridge microwave gas cook top double bed plus two smaller singles full annex with floor van cover Pop Top 1170 kg registered many extras. GC. $12,750. Flowerdale. 0411 577 050 PP-TT

CARAVAN. Jayco. 2004. Freedom. Single beds, RC/ AC, new tyres, unused porta-potti, m’wave, 3-way fridge, gas & elec. cooktop + grill, 240/12 volt TV and aerial. Reg till Jan 2026. Everything in working order. 1150 kg. Tows great. VGC. $12,500 ONO. Hastings. 0409 645 059. HH-LL

CHAIR. Pink, small, white spots. Suit girl . VGC. $15. Surrey Hills. 0410 626 110, after 5pm best. HH-LL

CHEST FREEZER. Haier. Three months old. $150. Reservoir. 0491 083 248. NN-QQ

CHILD’S Old Style TwoSeater School Desk. Steel frame, hardwood seat and desktop GC. $40. Yea. 0409 109 887. NN-QQ

CLARE Wellness Circulation Stimulator. Instruction Manual included. VGC. $150. Frankston. 9789 9634. HH-LL

CLOTH FOOTBALL MASCOT. Footscray Bulldogs. 39cm tall. VGC. $65. Pick-up: Glenroy. 9306 7628 LL-OO

COUNTRY MUSIC. 33rpm. Slim Dustry, Reg Lindsay, Hank Snow, glen Campbell, Sons of the Pioneers, Tex morton, Buddy Willkiams, Hank Williams, Hawking Bros., The Overlanders, The Folk Singer. GC. Various prices. Box Hill South. 9890 7904. HH-LL

CRICKET MEMORABILIA. 19 books. Bradman Calendar 1908-2001. Plus ‘Argus’ Magazines 1950, 1951 x 2. GC. Box Hill South. 9890 7904. PP-TT

DISHWASHER. Norj. 13.7 litres per wash. Large. 2’ wide, 2.9high. Not connected. New. Bought for $720. Sell $360. Alexandra. 0409 470 107.

MOTOR HOME.. With two solar panels for lights and air con. Double bed, gas cooker. Holden Rodeo 1998 rego till Feb. 24, 2026. Tour atlas inc. new battery and x bars. History of work completed. 1LB- 2CN. VGC. $19,000 ONO. Alexandra. 0409 470 107. LL-OO

FOOTBALL CAPS. Footscray. New. Pick up Glenroy or ost extra cost. $15 each. Glenroy. 9306 7628 LL-OO

FOOTWEAR. Navy woven leather. Diana ferrari. Sandal size 9, worn once. EC. $50. Ferntree Gully. 9758 3950.HH-LL

GARDEN HOSE. 30 metres long. Heavy duty. Good quality, bought at Bunnings. $30. Mt Martha 5973 4163. JJ-NN

GOLF CLUBS. Gents (13), Ladies (13).. And 200+ balls. GC. $400. Doncaster. 0409 414 417.

NN-QQ

GRIDDLE. Cast iron. 33cm x 21cm. Very clean. As new. Pascoe Vale. 04129 138 356. RR-VV

LAND. Expansive acreage ideal for farming or livestock. Secure paddocks, peaceful setting, close to amenities. Option to lease land only or house and land together. Suitable for genuine agricultural use. GC. $420/month for the land only. Land and house, $1000/month. Balnarring Beach. 0434189 449 PP-TT

LAWN MOWER. Ozito. Corded. With catcher. lightweight. Paid $149 at Bunnings. Sell $60. Mt Martha 5973 4163. JJ-NN

MATT BLATT egg chair on steel base. $130. Malvern East. 0419 685 666 PP-TT

PARTS for Ford AUIIV8. Secondhand. Struts. New parts: ball joints, 2 boxes of parts. VGC. $1000. Seymour 0419 881 573. N-Q

PIANOLA ROLLS. Around 50 rolls in all. Many older tunes. GC. $75. Malvern East. 0419 685 666. LL-OO

PHANTOM COMIC Collection. 1360. Continuous, No 692-1976. Also No 552 and 548. Replicas: 20 of between Nos 16-34. Doubles: 38. Phantom’s World, 8x. Sell full collection only. Best reasonable offer. Ferntree Gully. 9758 8990. RR-VV

PLUMBING FITTINGS. New. Box, 100m, sew/SW E/Boxes. Box: 100mm, 500mm, elbows, as new. New. $35. yea. 5750 2615. HH-LL

PRESSURE WASHER. Karcher. Good working order. little used, complete with operating instructions. Purchaser to collect. GC. $55. Doreen. 9717 3485. HH-LL

REFERENCE BOOK. Holden Commodore 1978. 42cm x 29cm. $85. Glenroy. 9306 7628 LL-OO

RIDE-ON Deutscher 280 Honda 390 motor run fine seal on shaft leaks, heaps of parts including new seat, new cutting plate body part dismantled, everything is there. GC. $500 or offer. yarck. 0414 718 812. NN-QQ

ROLLER DOOR Electric motor. 4 Doors brand. Near new Model 4DR1 v4 with remotes. Still has new stickers on it. EC. $100. Whittlesea. 0419 002 507.LL-OO

WHEELBARROW. $75. Mill Park. 9436 8935. HH-LL

GARAGE SALE

GARAGE SALE. Sat.Sun., Nov. 8-9. 8am-4pm. 1 Mulqueeny Lane, Yea. Tools, furniture, old stumps, bikes, camping equip. Antiques, bric-a-brac and more.RR-SS

GOD’S CHURCH invites faithful followwees of Christ to attend the New Testament local Passover night service. Alfredton, Ballarat. To secure your seat, 0419 327 366.N-P

ANZ Bank 2010 Tiger Money Boxes. GC. $40. Mill Park. 9436 8935. HH-LL

RING PULLS off all aluminium cans and any quan- tity to assist towards people who need prosthetics and wheel chairs and walking frames. Genuine collector. Victoria wide. Ararat. 0458 339 871.

WANTED. Independent Support Provider for NDIS participant in Acheron, near Alexandra. Participant is 20yo male - living independently - loves outdoors,, nushwalks, fishing. Suit experienced male SP , contractor, registered, NDIS screening, refrences. Flexible hours. Immediate start. 0412 224 464. HH-LL

ON

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NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION DETAILS

Application reference number: P25/1269

Applicant name: BOUTIQUE HOMES

The Land affected by this application is located at:

5 SWINTON COURT BAXTER LOT 82 LP 99634 VOL 9008 FOL 103 The application is for a permit to: VARY RESTRICTIVE COVENANT H034705 DATED 13/04/1978 AFFECTING CERTIFICATE OF TITLE VOLUME 09008 FOLIO 103 BY ADDING THE WORDS “EXCEPT FOR LOT 82 ON PLAN OF SUBDIVISION 099634” AFTER THE WORDS “BRICK VENEER”

A PERMIT IS REQUIRED UNDER THE FOLLOWING CLAUSE OF THE PLANNING SCHEME:

PLANNING SCHEME CLAUSE

CLAUSE

52.02

Key & Charger. Too Many Features to List. Under Warranty, Can Deliver Free if Required. VGC. $1800. Moorabbin. 0401 980 969. PP-TT

NAILING GUNS. 3. Paslode Dramefr. hirtachi 50mm. Plus Fixing Gun. Compressor and hoses, other fittings with app of nails. $200 or reasonable offer. Ferntree Gully. 9758 5990. RR-VV

ROTARY CLOTHES LINE. Mk 2. Cost, $349. Sell $140. Doncaster. 0409 414 417. NN-QQ

STATUES. Two garden vintage statues. 1: Greek lady, 66cm. 2: Bashful child, 59cm. 1 x buddha, 43cm, also baby deer snd four plaques. one tortoise, various designs. 10 peices. VGC. $300 ONO. Bittern. 0459 558 055. JJ-NN

TWO-PERSON SAW. $90. Mill Park. 9436 8935.HH-LL

MATTER FOR WHICH A PERMIT IS REQUIRED

Vary a covenant restriction

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 17 NOVEMBER 2025

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

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