The Local Paper. Regional Edition. Wed., Apr.. 16, 2025

FIRST MATCH OF SEASON FOR REBELS

■ Alexandra travelled to Warburton last Saturday for Round 2 of the Outer East League2024 Division 1 season.

The Reserves took to the field after the women’s football game between Warburton and Officer. The Burras, Premiers for the last couple of years, showed their experience and polish as they added to the scoreboard each quarter but the Rebels never gave in and worked hard to the final siren, Alexandra 4.6 (30) to Warburton 19.15 (129).

Awards: Shepparton Volkswagen – Harry Reed, Ampol fuel card – Luke Wal, Alexandra Hotel – Tom McKinlay, Buxton Hotel – Nate Kerle, Sportspower – Josh Crane

The Seniors welcomed Angus Smith to replace the injured Steve Steiner, the Rebels starting with five goals to one going uphill in the first quarter before adding four goals to three in the second quarter.

The match was physical after some close contests including the Second Semi Final last year, the Rebels adding three goals to one in the third quarter before repeating that in the last quarter, the game halting half way through the quarter after an incident that left Lucas O’Sullivan motionless on the ground.

Play was stopped and did not resume as Lucas remained on the ground receiving medical attention awaiting an ambulance, the game called off and the scores at the time being the final scores, Alexandra 15.12 (102) to Warburton 6.5 (41).

Awards: Incentives – Josh Edwards, Matt Peric, Ben Cooper and Nick Meehan. Alexandra Hotel / Ampol volunteer award – Neil / Annie Robinson.

NETBALLAWARDS

A Grade lost 21 – 64: Incentive – Jazmin Collett, Corner Hotel / Grant St Grocer –CaitlanHaggis;

B Grade lost 17 – 61: Incentive – Maddy Richards, Corner Hotel / Grant St Grocer – Jess Shaw;

C Grade lost 11 – 61: Incentive – Georgia Smith, Corner Hotel / Grant St Grocer – Brodie Wheelhouse;

D Grade lost 21 – 25: Incentive – Rose Hurrey, Corner Hotel / Grant St Grocer – Ashlee Frankcombe;

Thursday’s Rebel Raffles started last Thursday and we thank our sponsors Penstock Pastoral, Alexandra Hotel / Waverley Mazda, Reddrops Foodworks / Houseboat Sales Lake Eildon, Eildon Bakery / Bucks Bakehouse, Buxton Hotel / Bailey’s Funerals, Alexandra Quality Meats / AFNC canteen with the winners Des Rasmussen, Ray Steyger, Dylan Jack, Brad Kidd, Dan Crane and Elizabeth Kidd

The Penstock Pastoral Joker Jackpot will be worth $400 next week so come along and buy some tickets at $1 each but you need to be at the Club rooms at 8 pm for the draw.

There will be a line up of players and officials between the Reserves and Seniors football matches with the Alexandra RSL members acknowledging the ANZAC spirit.

After the games the Dream Team auction will be held, lists will be available on the day with the Auction to commence around 7pm, open age football and netball players are grouped, all earning points during the season and at the Club and League Presentation Functions.

The group with the most points earns their owner 50 per cent of the pool raised at the Auction, the second group earns their owner 30 per cent of the pool with the winners announced at the Club Senior Presentation function on Saturday, October 5.

It is worth studying the form guide especially with a number of new players in all grades of football and netball.

2024 Club memberships are available: $200 – Patron, $150 – Family and $100 –Members. $600 Rebel Raiser Sponsor together with Business, Corporate, Executive and Major Sponsor packages available, so if you would like to support the Club, please contact Ray Steyger on 5772 2627.

Due to the Anzac Day public holiday, there is no training on Thursday and no meals this week.

In Round 3 on Saturday, April 27, the Club is proud to work with the Alexandra RSL to celebrate the ANZAC spirit as we host Powelltown for games of football and netball, all entry fees collected and monies raised at the gate go to the Alexandra RSL to support their important work within the community.

Do not forget to order your Club merchandise – polo shirts, warmup shirts @ $50, hoodies, vests @ $70, casual shorts, netball top @$40, Club stubby holders @$10, travel mugs @ $15, peaked caps and beanies @ $25, visors @$20, bumper stickers arefree. Thursday night dinners are available after training with main course and sweets – adults$20 and kids $15, everyone is welcome.

The Club is seeking assistance and needs volunteers so if you would like to helpwithhome game tasks including scoreboard, canteen, bar work and maintenance amongst other things, please contact Ray Steyger on 5772 2627.

● ● ● ● Alexandra’s Ed Aujard applies pressure. Photo: Michelle Jack.

The Local Paper

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, 2025

9-WAY CONTEST FOR McEWEN

Local Briefs

Firearm seized

■ Wallan police charged a man after seizing a firearm and drugs following a search warrant in Beveridge on Sunday (Apr. 6).

A warrant was executed at a Hume Fwy address following an ongoing investigation.

A number of items were allegedly located during the search including a firearm, ammunition, drugs and suspected stolen jewellery.

A 34-year-old Beveridge man was arrested at the scene.

He was charged with prohibited person possess a firearm, alter serial number, possess ammunition without licence, fail to store longarm correctly and multiple drug charges. He was bailed to appear at court at a later date.

Farewell to Mick

■

■ Nine candidates are contesting for the Federal seat of McEwen in the May 3 election. Liberal Jason McClintick and Labor incumbent Rob Mitchell rteceived second last and last ballot paper positions respectively, when the draw were conducted on Friday afternoon (Apr. 11).

The ballot paper order for the seat of McEwen is:

ANTONIOU, Ali. Gerard Rennick People First FORREST, Tom. Legalise Cannabis Party VALENCIA, Julio G. Family First McRAE McLEOD, Marley. The Greens NICOLOSI, Chloe. Animal Justice Party JOHNSON, Jeremy. Pauline Hanson's One Nation McCLINTOCK, Jason. Liberal McGRATH, Erin. FUSION | Planet Rescue | Whistleblower Protection | Innovation MITCHELL, Rob. Australian Labor Party

The McEwen seat area has changed. It now covers Arthurs Creek, Ashbourne, Beveridge, Bolinda, Bullengarook, Bylands, Cadello, Carlsruhe, Cerokee, Chintin, Clarkefield, Clonbinane, Cobaw, Cottles Bridge, Darraweit Guim, Diamond Creek, Donnybrook, Doreen, Edene park, Fern Hill, Gisborne, Gisborne Soiuth, Goldie, Heathcote Junction, Hesket, Hidden Valley, Humevale, Hurstbridge, Kalkallo, Kerrie, Kilmore East, Kinglake West, Lancefield, Macedon, Mernda, Monegetta, Mount Macedon, New Gisborne, Newham, Nutfield, Panton Hill, Plenty, Riddells Creek, Rochford, Romsey, Smiths Gully, Springfield, St Andrews, Strathewen, Tantaraboo, Toolern Vale, Trentham East, Upper Plenty, Wallan, Wandiong, Waterford Park, Wattle Glen, Whittlesea, Woodend, Woodenmd North, Woodstock, Yan Yean and yarrambat.

Nillumbik looks to new budget

■ Nillumbik Council is preparing its budget for the 2025-26 financial year.’

Key capital expenditure projects include:

■ $1.93 million to fund Diamond Creek Men’s Shed (jointly funded by the Federal Government)

■ $1.8 million to fund Yarrambat Football Club change rooms (jointly funded by the Federal Government)

■ $2.79 million to continue work on the Kangaroo Ground landfill rehabilitation (a statutory requirement of the Environment Protection Authority – EPA)

‘Gutted’ by Govt.

■ Mansfield ouncil says iy is “gutted” by the State Government’s planning control changes.

“On Monday, March 31, a planning scheme amendment was gazetted and put in place after being announced in late February with no exhibition period,” a Council representative said.

Planning applications that meet the new standards will automatically be ‘deemed to comply’ and pushed through for approval without communities or councils having any say.

“Clause 55, known as ‘Rescode’, allows for three-storey buildings up to 11 metres high if they comply with the standards outlined in the code.

“There are no appeal rights and councils must approve a planning permit without ‘considering any other matter or decision guideline’ if the permit application does meet all the standards.

“The changes also remove the ability of local councils to vary the standards to meet any preferred neighbourhood character. “ Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said Council was gutted by the changes.

“The removal of the planning power of local government has taken yet another hit,” he said.

“When you remove local government powers, you mute the voices of local communities,” Cr Rabie said.

● ● ●

● Mick Milroy.

The

will be held at the Larnoo

Ghin Ghin Rd, near Switzerland Rd) from 12 Noon to 3pm on Saturday, May 10. Casual farm dress, flanelette shirts are encouraged.

Nillumbik Mayor Cr John Dumaresq said the draft Budget focuses on the core features and functions that matter most to residents “We’ve allocated $1.6 million to road and carpark works and a further $1.5 million to building renewal to ensure our vital infrastructure is maintained. Almost half the population of Nillumbik has a library membership, and 75 per cent of new mothers attend their maternal child health nurse at least once a year.”

● ● ● ● Rob Mitchell, McEwen MHR. File Photo

Photo: Ash Long

It is being called ‘One Last Smoko’ and it is an event to remember Murrindindi district shearer Mick Milroy.

event

Woolshed (823

The Local Paper

association with the Established September 14, 1969

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

ABOUT US

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

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

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

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

• Mitchell Shire Edition: Mitchell Shire

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

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E-Mail: Editor@LocalPaper.com.au

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Editor@LocalMedia.com.au

Editor: Ash Long

Features Editor: Peter Mac

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

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

Logistics: Tyler Sandiford, Tim Granvillani, Erica Koldinsky

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

on Wednesday

Cost of living crisis

■ Evelyn MLA Bridget Vallence says that the Allan Labor State Government has has allowed Victoria to spiral into a cost-ofliving crisis.

“There is a simple question that Victorians will be asking themselves now and in November 2026: am I any better off than I was back in November 2014 when this Labor Government came to power?

“The answer is a resounding no. We only have to look at the Premier’s spiralling decline in the polls, plummeting to the lowest ever in her time.

“On every metric Victorians are now worse off than they were when this tired Labor Government was elected back in 2014, a decade ago.

“Everything is harder under Labor. But you do not need to take my word for it –the facts speak for themselves.

“No matter how hard this Labor Government tries to spin the facts, the truth will always shine through.

“You do not have to look very far to see that Victorians are experiencing a cost-ofliving crisis, as they are right now.

“The Allan Labor Government’s midyear budget update, their midyear financial report, released just last month, confirmed that Victoria’s budget is spiralling further into crisis, with debt surging, interest repayments ballooning and reckless spending damaging the state, adding to inflation and adding to Victorians’ cost-of-living pressures.

“The figures expose Labor’s com-

plete failure to manage Victoria’s finances, proving that more taxes, more borrowing and more waste do not help your economy.

“This Labor Government has only made it harder for Victorians , who are already struggling every day with cost-of-living pressure.

“Remarkably, the midyear budget update has shown that Labor has already blown through 66 per cent of its budgeted increase in net debt.

“If this trend continues, which it no doubt will, Victoria will record a blowout in net debt of over $4 billion this financial year.

“ However, we know this government has pulled a swifty and is making Victorians pay their land tax bill twice in one financial year – dodgy accounting.

“It is a desperate bid by this tired Labor Government to make their revenue stream look better than what it actually is.

“The Allan Labor Government has taken Victoria from being a financial powerhouse in Australia to a state in serious decline.

“But do not take my word, as I said, look at what the credit rating agencies have to say.

“In 2014 Victoria had a AAA credit rating, which was the legacy of many reforms implemented by the former Kennett Liberal Government

“It was maintained by the Bracks and Brumby Governments , who knew what it meant to be fiscally responsible, but this Allan Labor Government decided to trash the legacy.”

● ● The next ssue of The Local Paper is scheduled for Wednesday, April 30. Deadline for advertising bookings and content is 4pm Thursday, April 24. There is no digital issue on April 23.

The Local Paper

In association with the Established September 14, 1969

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

MANSFIELD

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

MITCHELL

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

MURRINDINDI

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

NILLUMBIK (RURAL)

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

STRATHBOGIE (PART)

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

WHITTLESEA (RURAL)

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

YARRA RANGES

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

Long Shots

Bridget Vallence, Evelyn MLA

Cheryl Threadgold, Local Theatre

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

Bissett-Johnson, Cartoonist

Kemp, Art Rob Foenander, Music

BALLOT PAPER ORDER IN VICTORIAN ELECTORATES

Aston

CICCHIELLO, Manny. Liberal

DOYLEMary. Australian Labor Party

MANNERS, Craig. Family First

WILLIAMS, Andrew. Independent

FAWCETT, David. Libertarian

GRONDMAN, Mark. Independent

STEEN Reuben. The Greens De WACHT, John. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

DESVEAUX, Steve. Trumpet of Patriots

Bruce

COLECCHIA, Bianca. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

GARAD, Rhonda. The Greens

HILL, Julian. Australian Labor Party

SKROBO, Christine. Libertarian SAFI, Zahid. Liberal ANDERSON Samuel James. Trumpet of Patriots

LOUTH Andrew. Legalise Cannabis Party

BIRCHALL, Wendy. Family First Calwell

MOORE Carly. Independent

BENGTSSON, Maria. Family First

DEL ROSARIO-MAKRIDIS, Gianni. Legalise Cannabis Party

MOSLIH, Samim. Independent TOMA Luay. Pauline

Hanson's One Nation

YOUHANA, Joseph. Independent

GARCHA, Ravneet Kaur. The Greens

ISSA, Assaad. Trumpet of Patriots

ABDO, Basem. Australian Labor Party

PEACH, Morgan HAWLI, Bassima. Citizens Party

RAGUPATHY, Ravi. Independent

GHANI, Usman. Liberal Casey

COURTIS, Phillip. Trumpet of Patriots

LIVORI, Ambere. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

BOND, Chloe. Animal Justice Party

NEBAUER, Dan. Family First BLAIR, Merran. The Greens OAKLEY, Naomi. Australian Labor Party

FERRES MILES, Claire. Independent

VIOLI, Aaron. Liberal Chisholm

RANDALL, Tim. The Greens ONG, Gary. Family First LIVORI, Guy. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

ALLEN, Katie. Liberal McSHANE, Christine. Trumpet of Patriots

GARLAND, Carina. Australian DAVIES Kath. Independent Cooper

TURNER, William. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

KEARNEY, Ged. Australian

Labor Party

BURNETT, Tara. The Greens

TODHUNTER, Stewart. Liberal

LARKIN Kath. Victorian Socialists

STOLZENBERG, Donna. Legalise Cannabis Party Deakin

GREGG, Matt. Australian Labor Party

SUKKAR, Michael. Liberal NESS, Jess. Independent

COOKE, Anne. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

GRIFFITH-JONES, Richard. Family First

MILLS, Amy. The Greens WILDE, Milton. Trumpet of Patriots

VANDERMEER, Will. Libertarian Dunkley

CONROY, Nathan. Liberal THURLEY, Robert. Independent

DAVIS, Jessica. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

NICHOLES, Peter. Family First

MABER, Matt. The Greens GATLEY, Andrew. FUSION | Planet Rescue | Whistleblower Protection | Innovation

BELYEA, Jodie. Australian Labor Party

ABBOTT, Lisa. Legalise Cannabis Party Flinders

SMART, Jason. Trumpet of Patriots

SMITH. Ben. Independent McKENZIE, Zoe. Liberal

BROWN Mike. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

TOSCANO, Joseph. Independent

RACE, Sarah. Australian Labor Party

FROGLEY, Adam . The Greens Fraser

RANCIE, Rob. Family First

TRUONG, Huong. The Greens ROZARIO, George. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

PATEL, Satish. Liberal DUFF, Jasmine. Victorian Socialists

MULINO, Daniel. Australian Labor Party

Gellibrand

WATTS, Tim. Australian Labor Party

BENNETT, Stephen. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

REESON, Ben. Liberal KRISHNA PANDI, Ponraj. The Greens Goldstein

WILLIAMS, Vicki Jane. Trumpet of Patriots

GADANI, Nildhara. Australian Labor Party

SEGAL, David. Libertarian GALLI-McROSTIE, Alana. The Greens GARDINER, Leon. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

DANIEL, Zoe. Independent WILSON, Tim. Liberal Gorton

MENTA,Xavier. Legalise Cannabis Party

McCATHIE, Rob. Libertarian JORDAN-BAIRD, Alice. Aus-

tralian Labor Party

ASHTON, Kathrine. Family First

FLETCHER, John. Liberal

REID, Alan. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

HUYNH, Thuc Bao. The Greens Hawke

MILUTINOVIC, Melanie.

Family First

STARBUCK, Devon. Legalise

Cannabis Party

NEWMAN, Sarah. The Greens

ADIN-JAMES, Fiona. Animal Justice Party

RAE, Sam. Australian Labor Party

COTTOM, Simmone. Liberal KATSELIS, Matthew. Pauline Hanson's One Nation Holt

FOREMAN, Shane. Family First

TIWARI, Payal. The Greens HAMMOND, Trevor. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

AICKIN, Riley. Legalise Cannabis Party

FERNANDO, Cassandra. Australian Labor Party

SAMUEL, Annette. Liberal Hotham

VAINORAS. Tony. Citizens Party

BARRY, Martin. The Greens FOGARTY, Stuart. Pauline Hanson's One Nation BROWNMark. Family First

O'NEIL Clare. Australian Labor Party

MATHARU, Harmick Singh. Liberal

Indi HAINES, Helen. Independent BRIDGES, Mitch. Australian Labor Party

TRENERY, James. Liberal THOMAS, Athol. Pauline Hanson's One Nation REGAN Alysia. The Greens QUILTY, Tim. Libertarian WHITE, Michael. Family First HOWMAN, Ben. Legalise Cannabis Party

McFARLANE, Mark. Independent Isaacs

DREYFUS, Mark. Australian Labor Party

KIRWAN, Matthew. The Greens

HARMSE, Audrey. Family First

OTTEY, Fiona. Liberal McMAHON, Geoff. Pauline Hanson's One Nation Jagajaga

MOHAMED, Abdi. Independent

RANCIE, Rae. Family First PARR, Chris. Liberal SANDFORD, Jy. The Greens KEARNEY, Chris. Independent

RALPH, Leslie. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

THWAITES, Kate. Australian Labor Party Kooyong

PEPPARD, Richard. Libertarian

HAMER, Amelia. Liberal CARTER, Jackie. The Greens ● ● Continued Next Page

Federal Elections 2025

● From Previous Page

BRACHE, Camille. Pauline

Hanson's One Nation

VADER, David. Trumpet of Patriots

RYAN, Monique. Independent CROSBY, Clive. Australian Labor Party La Trobe

HARDIMAN, Gregory. Thomas. Trumpet of Patriots

SPRINGFIELD, Jeff. Australian Labor Party

MALHOTRA, Ron. Family First

WOOD, Jason. Liberal

LONGMUIR, Jamie. The Greens

PANETTA, Leo. Pauline Hanson's One Nation Lalor

PARRIS, Owen. The Greens RYAN, Joanne. Australian Labor Party

EMERSON, Matthew. Family First

OOSTHUIZEN, Jason. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

D'SILVA Mira. Liberal

MOINUDDIN, Aijaz. Independent

BARCATTA, Patrizia. Libertarian Macnamara

BURNS, Josh. Australian Labor Party

RUBIN, Sean. Pauline

Hanson's One Nation

SEMMENS, Sonya. The Greens SAULO, Benson. Liberal ABELMAN, Michael. Libertarian MYERS, JB. Independent Maribyrnong

WILLIAMS, James. The Greens BRISKEY. Jo. Australian La-

bor Party

BEDDOE, Tim. Liberal

CASEY, Alannah. Pauline Hanson's One Nation McEwen

ANTONIOU, Ali. Gerard Rennick People First FORREST, Tom. Legalise Cannabis Party VALENCIA, Julio G. Family First McRAE McLEOD, Marley. The Greens NICOLOSI, Chloe. Animal Justice Party JOHNSON, Jeremy. Pauline Hanson's One Nation McCLINTOCK, Jason. Liberal McGRATH, Erin. FUSION | Planet Rescue | Whistleblower Protection | Innovation MITCHELL, Rob. Australian Labor Party Melbourne

CASEY, Melanie. Pauline Hanson's One Nation WITTY, Sarah. Australian Labor Party

SMITH. Tim. Independent KOUTOUFIDES, Anthony. Independent BANDT, Adam. The Greens HUANG, Helen. FUSION | Planet Rescue | Whistleblower Protection | Innovation HUNT, Steph. Liberal Menzies

PALIOURAS,Amanda. Trumpet of Patriots

PHEASANT, Bill. The Greens WOLAHAN, Keith. Liberal YEE, Stella. Independent UTOYO, Joshua. Libertarian SEELEY, Ann. Family First NG, Gabriel. Australian Labor EDWARDS-SCOTT, Jhett. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

Monash

ROBINSON, Kuljeet Kaur. Pauline Hanson's One Nation FLETCHER, Tully. Australian Labor Party BROADBENT, Russell. Independent

ALDRED, Mary. Liberal LEONARD, Deb. Independent DETHLEFS, Geoff. Family First

O'REILLY, David. Legalise Cannabis Party STEELE, Terence. The Greens WEHBE, Alex. Trumpet of Patriots Nicholls

TRAVERS, Kim. Australian Labor Party

BACHELOR, Paul Edward. Family First FLOYD, Glenn Francis. Trumpet of Patriots

TYRRELL, Aaron. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

BIRRELL, Sam. The Nationals

DAVY, Jeff. Citizens Party EADE, Shelby. The Greens Scullin

BUCCIANTI, Adriana. Trumpet of Patriots

BELL, Cassandra. Family First

HASSAN, Omar. Victorian Socialists

TSOUTSOULIS, Arthur. Pauline Hanson's One Nation SANGARYA, Loki. The Greens

TAGGAR, Rohit. Liberal GILES, Andrew. Australian Labor Party van BREE, Ursula. Gerard Rennick People First Wills

BOLTON, Sue. Socialist Alliance

KHALIL, Peter. Australian Labor Party

KIDNEY, Jeff. Liberal GLOVER, Margee. Legalise Cannabis Party MILLER, Owen. FUSION | Planet Rescue | Whistleblower Protection | Innovation RATNAM, Samantha. The Greens

VERSTEEGEN, Rachel. Libertarian STEVENS, Bruce. Pauline Hanson's One Nation

SENATE: VICTORIAN CANDIDATES

A.

Liberal/The Nationals

1. PATERSON, James

2. HUME, Jane

3. HOPPITT, Kyle 4.ARNOLD, Glenn 5. MIRABELLA, Greg 6. KMETJ, Chrestyna B.

Legalise Cannabis Party

1. PATTEN, Fiona 2. DAVY, Alice 3. EVANS, Shea C.

Animal Justice Party

1. JEGES, Helen

2, McMILLAN, Benjamin D. IndigenousAboriginal Party of Australia

1. AUSTIN-ABDULLAH, Racquel

2. AL-SAIMARY, Laylah E.

Australia’s Voice

1. EL-MASRI, Mohamed

2. KAUR, Harsimran

3. ELACHKAR, Rasheed F.

FUSION | Planet Rescue | Whistleblower Protection | Innovation

1. CORDNER HUNT, Kammy

2. GNIESLAW, Simon Mark Simcha G.

1. VONGVIXAY, Keo

2. HERNAN, Taylor H. Trumpet of Patriots

1. UNKLES, James William

2. JEAN, Ron

3. McKAY, Roger Ivan I. Australian Labor Party

1. CICCONE, Raffaele

2. WALSH, Jess

3.ANANDA-RAJAH, Michelle

4. PSAILA, Lynn

5. KELLEY, Stephenie

6. BAKER, David J.

Family First

1. FINN, Berni

2. FOREMAN, Jane K.

Pauline Hanson's One Nation

1. PICKERING, Warren

2. BRADBURY, Christopher

L. Australian Democrats

1. McKENZIE, Heath

2. NOBLE, Carly M. Victorian Socialists

1. VAN DEN LAMB, Jordan

2. PRICE, Steph N. Sustainable Australia PartyUniversal Basic Income

1. ACKERLY, Celeste 2. JESSUP, Bert O. Gerard Rennick People FirstHeart

1. NEIL, Chris 2. CLONARIDIS, Nick P. Libertarian

1. DITTLOFF, Jordan

2. FORD, Matthew

3. MATULEC, Stephen Q. The Greens

1. HODGINS-MAY, Steph 2. ARI, Navera

3. IAMPOLSKI, Rachel

4. SLATER, Maddie

5. HENDERSON, Brittney

6. YAWARI, Nasser R. Citizens Party

1. BARWICK, Robert

2. YOHANNA, Sleiman ● ● ● ● Continued Next Page

Federal Elections 2025

●

● From Previous Page

S. Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party

1. CONSTANTINOU, Ethan 2. VICKERS, Ken T.

1. SAINIRaj

2. ALLE Kirti

3. KANAKAGIRI, Yashaswini

Srinivas UG. Independent

1, CHEUNG, Heena Sinha

2. ABEYSINGHE, Susantha

3. LEWAND, Viesha

4. HARVEY, Lawrence

5. CORBETT, Cory

6. BLACK, K

7. VAN. David

8. RITTER, Nate

Betting odds

■ As at Monday (Apr. 14), TAB listed Labor at $1.26 to win the May 3 federal Election.

The Coalition has lengthened to win at $3.80. Any other part is $301.

Type of governmemt: a Labor Minorty is $1.95, a Labor Majority is $2.60.

A Coalition Minority will pay$5. The current odds for a Coalition Majority are $17.

The Coalition has odds of $1.22 for the seat of Flinders.

Helen Haines is at $1.14 to win Indi.

In Mitchell, Labor is $1.80, Liberal $1.90.

An auction for votes

● By Michelle Grattan of The Conversation

■ If anyone had any doubts before, Sunday’s Liberal and Labor launches highlighted that this election is an auction for votes, in particular those of the under 40s and people in the outer suburbs.

Amid the usual launch hoopla – the Liberals choosing western Sydney and Labor returning to Perth – both parties announced major fresh housing initiatives.

They were making a deep bow to what’s a central issue for younger Australians who still aspire to the so-called “Australian dream” but can’t see themselves affording it.

Significantly, Peter Dutton also produced a tax handout – a tax offset of up to $1,200 targeted to lower and middle income earners. This was despite his signalling earlier in the campaign he wouldn’t be able to afford to do so.

On tax, Anthony Albanese promised people would be able to claim a $1,000 automatic tax deduction for work expenses (at a cost of $2.4 billion over the forward estimates).

The Liberal campaign has been flagging. Labor has appeared headed for victory, at least in a comfortable minority.

The Liberals might say they’ve been working on the policies produced on Sunday for some time, but they do have a “break glass” feel about them, as the opposition seeks to reinvigorate its campaign.

The Liberals’ proposal for the interest on a mortgage to be tax deductible has strict limits. It only applies to first home buyers, to new homes and (for the house buyer) for five years, and provided the buyer remains living in the home.

There is a means test, and the interest deductibility only applies on the first $650,000 of the loan. This is why the plan is costed at a modest $1.25 billion over the forward estimates.

The plan will come under some tough criticism in the final three weeks of the campaign.

Independent economist Saul Eslake said on Sunday the policy would put upward pressure on house prices.

J“We have 60 years of evidence going back to the Menzies government’s initial first home owners’ grant scheme that anything allowing people to spend more on housing than they otherwise would results in more expensive housing and a smaller proportion of the population owning it.”

Eslake argues that when this policy is combined with the Liberals’ policy to give people access to their superannuation for a deposit, “they make a candidate for the worst policy decision of the 21st century so far.”

In its new housing offer, Labor is promising to invest $10 billion for the construction of up to 100,000 new homes to be sold only to first home owners.

Also, the present scheme under which the government guarantees a 5% home deposit would have the means test removed (the Liberals would also tweak some detail of this measure).

Labor in its first term committed to spending $33 billion and set a target of 1.2 million new homes over five years. Progress to the target is off course. The latest initiatives could be seen by some voters as more of the same.

The Liberals hope the interest deductibility policy might be a show stopper. But there is a salutary lesson from the 2022 campaign. The Liberals also came out at that campaign launch with a big housing initiative – to allow people access to their super for the purchase of their first home. It wasn’t the “game changer” Scott Morrison labelled it. It was too late, for one thing. For another, policy auction or not, many voters make decisions on wider criteria, including what they think of the leaders and the context in which the contest is taking place.

Making your vote count

■ On election day you will receive two ballot papers: a green one for the House of Representatives, and a white one for the Senate.

House of Representatives

On the green ballot paper, you need to put a ‘1’ in the box beside the candidate who is your first choice, ‘2’ in the box beside your second choice and so on, until you have numbered every box. You must number every box for your vote to count.

Senate

On the white ballot paper you can choose to vote either above or below the line.

Either: Above the line

If you vote above the line, you must number at least 6 boxes from 1 to 6. Place a ‘1’ in the box for the party or group that is your first choice, a ‘2’ in the box for the party or group that is your second choice and so on until you number at least six boxes. You may continue to place numbers in as many boxes above the line as you like

Or: Below the line

If you vote below the line, you must number at least 12 boxes from 1 to 12. Place a ‘1’ in the box beside the candidate that is your first choice, a ‘2’ in the box beside your second choice and so on until you number at least 12 boxes. You may continue to place numbers in as many boxes below the line as you like.

Voting on Polling Day

■ Election day is Saturda, May 3. You can vote at any polling place in your state or territory on polling day. Polling places are usually located at local schools, churches and community halls, or public buildings.

Voting before Polling Day

■ Hundreds of early voting centres will be open progressively across the country from Tuesday April 22 and will run up to and including Friday May 2. Check the opening dates as not all early voting centres are open for the entire two-week early voting period. All early voting centres will be closed on Easter Monday, April 21, and ANZAC Day, Friday April 25.

● ● Information from the Australian Electoral Commission. Website: aec.gov.au

333 signatures

Local Briefs NFNL football scoreboard

■ A petition with 333 signatures, complaining about Whittlesea-Yea Rd, has been presented to State Parliament by Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish.

The petition spoke of “the urgent need for surface and pothole repair on Whittlesea-Yea Rd between Flowerdale and Kinglake West

“The roads deteriorating condition, plagued with large, deep potholes, crumbling shoulders and failing surface puts drivers at risk of accident and causes damage to vehicles including busting rims and bursting tyres.

“The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Assembly organise the urgent upgrade and repair of the Whittlesea-Yea Rd between Flowerdale and Kinglake West to ensure road users safety.”

Outer East scores

■ Division 1 Seniors. Pakenha, 144 d Powelltown 1.3 (9). Yea 18.17 (125) d Yarra Junction 9.9 (62). Yarra Glen 15.10 (100) d Belgrave 13.12 (90). Seville 16.11 (1207) d Alexandra 8.15 (63). Bye: WarburtonMillgrove.

■ Division 1 Reserves. Pakenham 150 d Powelltown 1.3 (9). Yea 19.12 (126) d Yarra Junction 10. Belgrave 21.15 (141) d Yarra Glen 1.8 (14). Seville 20.13 (133) d Alexandra 4.4 (28). Bye: Warburton-Millgrove.

■ Premier Under 18 Boys. Wandin 23.16 -154) d Healesville 1.5 (110). Mt Evelyn 12.15 (87) d Gembrook Cockatoo 3.3 (21). Officer 27.12 -174) d Upwey Tecoma 3.7 (25). Olinda Ferny Creek 14.9 (93) d Monbulk 3.4 (22). Bye: Healesville.

■ Division 1 Under 18 Boys. Pakenham 24.17 (161) d Warburton-Millgrove 0.2 (2). Yarra Glen 11.11 (77) d Yea 10.9 (69). Seville 18.8 (116) d Alexandra 3.5 (23).

■ Senior Women Division 2. Wandin 13.13 (91) d Officer 1.3 99). Warburton-Wesburn 11.9 (75) d Thornton-Eildon 1.1 (7). Emerald 10.8 (68) d Yea 7.8 (50). Bye: Seville.

Be well in the Ranges

■ Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish has called on the State Government to commit to ongoing funding for the Be Well in the Ranges program running across the Kinglake Ranges.

Be Well in the Ranges was initiated in 2019 to support the community in the Kinglake Ranges around the 10th anniversary of Black Saturday.

Speaking in Parliament, Ms McLeish said: “This is a valuable program that needs to be continued. The Kinglake Ranges community are still affected by the Black Saturday bushfire that devastated the area.

“There has been a growing demand around long-term PTSD, complex intergenerational trauma and many other serious mental health issues relating to surviving the disaster.

“In the last six months there has been an increase in community members seeking help for the first time and accessing the program.”

For the past 4½-years, Be Well in the Ranges has been supported by the State Government on a year-to-year basis.

There is uncertainty at the end of each financial year if the program will continue to receive funding.

The program offers psychologists, a counsellor and provides group music therapy programs in local kindergartens and primary schools which is well utilised.

“Without this funding, the community will be left without accessible or affordable mental health support,” Ms McLeish said.

“There is a risk of losing the team of subcontracted mental health staff, who have invaluable experience within the community.”

Music Therapist at Be Well in the Ranges, Dr Beth Williams, said, “The community has been through enough trauma and hardship. The program offers locals the assistance they, and their children, need.”

“I am worried that if the funding is discontinued, the community will suffer, with the danger of increased suicides, domestic violence and substance abuse.”

Since its inception, more than 1470 people have participated in the program, with 215 referrals made to other services.

Between September 2023 and August 2024, a 10-month snapshot reveals that 726 sessions were conducted.

During this period 207 people attended psychology, music therapy or counselling sessions, 94 new clients engaged with the service and 1078 sessions were attended by returning clients.

“It is not a lot of money – about $150,000 will help them. This amount is less than one ghost worker on a Big Build site. I strongly urge the minister to action this request,” Ms McLeish said.

■ Division 1 Seniors. North Heidelberg 13.9 (87) d Bundoora 11.8 (74). Montmorency 24.13 (157) d South Morang 16.11 (107). Banyule 13.15 (93) d Greennsborough 12.6 (78). Hurstbridge 14.16 (100) d Eltham 7.12 (54). Heidelberg 18.10 (118) d West Preston-Lakeside 8.10 (58). ■ Division 1 Reserves. North Heidelberg 14.18 (102) d Bundoora 8.7 (55). Eltham 14.9 (93) d Hurstbridge 10.6 (66). Banyule 11.14 (80) d Greensborough 6.4 (40). Montmorency 24.10 (154) d South Morang 8.7 (55). Heidelberg 17.16 (118) d West Preston-Lakeside 2.10 (22). ■ Division 1 Under 19.5. Eltham 18.17 -125 d North Heidelberg 4.6 (30). Banyule 24.7 (151) d Greensborough 4.3 (27). Heidelberg 13.7 (85) d Diamond Creek 3.9 (27). St Mary’s 8.13 (61) d Montmorency 5.8 (38).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Macleod 23.19 9157) d Thomastown 10.11 (71). St Mary’s 23.15 (153) d Panton Hill 9.8 (62). Diamond Creek 19.16 (130) d Lower Plenty 3.6 (26). Whittlesea 17.9 (111 d Watsonia 12.12 (84). Northcote Park 15.14 (104) d Old Paradians 6.8 (44). ■ Division 2 Reserves. thomastowm 8.11 (59) d Macleod 4.8 (32). St Mary’s 12.14 (86) d Panton Hill 3.12 (30). Diamond Creek 19.11 (125) d Lower Plenty 3.8 (26). Whittlesea 18.14 (122) d Watsonia 4.6 (30). Northcote Park 6.11 (47) d Old Paradians 6.7 (43). ■ Division 2 Under 19.5. Hurstbridge 17.11 (113) d Bundoora 9.4 (58). Whittlesea 10.13 (73) d Macleod 6.10 (46). South Moranmh 18.13 (121) d Lower Plenty 8.5 (53). Bye: Lauirmar. ■ Division 3 Seniors. Fitzroy Stars 16.16 (122) d Mernda 10.5 (65). Ivanhoe 18.13 (121) d Heidelberg West 10.4 (64). Old Eltham Collegians 18.10 (118) d Reservoir 12.10 (82). Kinglake 17.17 (119) d Lalor 5.2 (32). Laurimar 16.8 (104) d Epping 14.9 (93). Bye: Kilmore. ■ Division 3 Reserves. Fitzroy Stars 84 d Mernda 4.10 (34). Ivanhoe 21.7 (133) d Heidelberg West 7.12 (54). Old Eltham Collegians 13.11 (89) d Reservoir 6.4 (40). Kinglake 17.11 (113) d Lalor 2.2 (14). Laurimar 24.10 (154) d Epping 8.8 (56). Bye: Kilmore.

Death at Benalla

The Local Paper Regional Edition, Front-Page, April 5

?When Kinglake accountant Garry Angus raised the question of possible irregularities in planning processes at Murrindindi Council three weeks ago, a thorough enquiry was promised. Some concerns were raised about Melbounre Water conditions not being met on a development at Carey Rd. Three weeks on, has Murrindindi Council been in touch with Melbourne Water about the allegations? Some informed circles say ‘maybe not’.

?Last year, Murrindindi Shire CEO Livia Bonazzi wrongly said some of the reasons that Murrindindi Shire Council did not award its advertising to The Local Paper was that the newspaper was not a member of the Australian Press Council (it is), and that The Local Paper does not employ local people (it does). The Shire said it based its decision on (incorrect) data then published on the Public Interest Journalism Initiative website (since corrected by the PIJI people), although that database closed down last December.

✖The Local Paper was not even asked to send in a tender for the 2024-25 advertising contract from the Murrindindi Shire. The business went automatically to the Council’s good friends at ‘Petticoat Press’ (aka Alexandra Newspapers). At that time, the Alexandra Standard sold a maximum of 1235 copies. The Yea Chronicle had maximum sales of 335 copies. Both their papers combined had 15 online subscribers, according to official returns.

■ An unattributed statement from Murrindindi Council was sent to The Local Paper last week. It did not carry the signature of either Chief Executive Officer Livia Bonazzi nor Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher.

The email from an unnamed email address at Murrindindi Shire Council said: “Hi Ash, Please find below a statement from Council regarding the Carey Road development.”

There is no public record of the Council (the seven elected Councillors) as having voted at a regular meeting to have approved the statement.

As a matter of public interest, The Local Paper publishes the letter, unedited, in good faith:

“At the Council Meeting on March 26, Mr Garry Angus spoke about the subdivision and civil works at 45-47 Carey Road, Killingworth, and handed an envelope to the CEO during public participation.

‘No evidence of any breach’ Mini Ads

“Council treats all correspondence and documents received from community members in a confidential and respectful manner. The content of Mr Angus’s verbal comments and the fact that he tabled documents in a public meeting are now part of the public record.

“Mr Angus asked a series of questions that relate to a range of matters, including planning, engineering approvals, and compliance.

“At this stage, no complaint has been lodged, and no evidence has been presented that would indicate any breach of Council process or impropriety.

“Council prides itself on its strong foundations of good governance, integrity and transparency.

“Our processes are designed to be robust and stand up to scrutiny.

“As with all questions or suggestions posed by the community, Council will review the processes related to this development in accordance with its statutory role and responsibilities.

“Should any irregularities be identified, Council will take appropriate steps, which may include referral for independent review.

“Members of the public who believe they have evidence of wrongdoing are encouraged to raise concerns through the appropriate formal channels.

“The Public Interest Disclosures Act 2012 (the Act) requires Council to maintain internal processes that facilitate disclosures, effectively manage the receipt of information and provide protection for all parties who may be involved.

“To learn more about reporting an act of improper conduct or detrimental action and how we can protect you for providing such information, refer to the Public Interest Disclosures section of our website at murrindindi.vic.gov.au

“Council remains committed to transparency, procedural fairness, and good governance in all its dealings,” the statement said.

■ Charles Exton, one of the people to submitted detailed complaints at the March meeting of Murrindindi Council, told The Local Paper late Friday (Apr. 11), that he had not received any written communication from the Shire since that meeting.

M’dindi Council systems upgrade

■ Murrindindi Council is upgrading its customer request management system.

“Online customer requests and payments will be offline from Wednesday April 30 at 5pm until Monday May 5 at 9am,” said a Shire Council representative.

“If you visit on of our Library and Customer Service Centres or call us during this period, please be patient.

“Our team will be using manual systems and handling a backlog of requests after the upgrade,” the Council representative said.

■ Police are investigating a fatal crash in Benalla on Sunday morning (Apr, 13). Emergency services responded after a motorcycle was travelling along Lake Mokoan Rd when it struck a cow about 9.45am. The rider died at the scene. Exact circumstances surrounding the incident are being investigated.

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.

Special Price: $230 TOTAL for all remaining 2025 issues. Book your ad: 1800 231 311.

●

●

●

● The Local Paper website

✔The Local Paper last week received a request from Murrindindi Council to supply a price for a monthly fullpage ad. We have provided a competitive price, but we won’t hold our breath. Our average print readership figures (as at March 31) for our Murrindindi 'Regional Edition', for each print issue, per population centre are: Alexandra, 1248 people; Buxton, 144; Eildon, 240; Flowerdale, 144; Glenburn, 36; Kinglake, 192; Kinglake West, 36; Marysville, 120; Molesworth, 36; Narbethong, 72; Pheasant Creek,108; Strath Creek, 36; Taggerty, 36; Thornton, 72; Yarck, 144; and Yea, 1008. This totals 3672 people as readers of the Murrindindi print edition each issue. Additional Murrindindi readers regularly pick-up up their print edition at their regional hubs nearby including Diamond Creek, Healesville, Hurstbridge, Lilydale, Mansfield, Seymour, Whittlesea and Yarra Glen. Average weekly impressions for the online version of the Murrindindi 'Regional Edition' (for March 2025) is 954.

NEW COURSES AT SEYMOUR

■ Career Transition Assistance is soon to start in Seymour through Sureway . CTA is a Federal Government initiative to assist mature age job seekers, aged 45 years and over, to build skills and confidence to become more competitive in their local labour market. The course is voluntary and runs for two days a week for six weeks. Participants could be looking for full time, part time or casual work. The course coversDigital Literacy Using computers; the internet and online applications; emails (sending/receiving, attaching, CCs); using Word and Excel; using MyGov Resumes and Job Applications Exploring your transferable skills; creating your own resume and cover letter; improving and tailoring resumes; ow to beat online filters/ screeners; applying for jobs online.

● ● Livia Bonazzi, Chief Executive Officer, Murrindindi Shire Council

Authorised by N. Favager by Favager Authorised by N. Favager by Favager

F F F F or the T T or the T T rumpet of P of P Patriots atriots atriots atriots atriots , Gold Coast Gold , Gold Coast Gold

Council Rounds

New speed limits

■ Mitchell Shire Council has begun implementing changes to speed limits across both residential and rural areas.

Speed limits on several roads within the Seymour Town Centre and Wallara Waters Residential Estate in Wallan will be reduced to 40-kmh.

Additionally, a number of other roads will see their speed limits lowered to 60-kmh or 80-kmh.

“These adjustments are grounded in extensive crash data and safety research, demonstrating the life-saving benefits of slower speeds,” said a Council representative.

“In residential areas, the aim is to enhance safety for vulnerable road users and improve community liveability. Research has shown that a pedestrian hit at 40-kmh stands a 60 per cent chance of survival, compared to just 10 per cent at 50-kmh.

“For rural roads where speed limits will be reduced to 80-kmh, the new limits will help mitigate the risk of fatal crashes from run-offs and collisions. Drivers at 80-kmh have significantly improved chances of survival compared to those travelling at 100-kmh.

“While rural roads without speed limit signs have a default speed limit of 100-kmh, drivers are urged to adjust their speed to the conditions, ensuring that they drive safely, even in the absence of signage.”

Mitchell Shire Mayor Cr John Dougall said the introduction of these new speed limits is part of a broader commitment to improving road safety in the municipality.

“While road maintenance is a critical factor, we understand that adjusting speed limits is a proven and immediate way to reduce crash severity.

“We are combining this approach with our ongoing Road Renewal Program to take a holistic approach to safety.

“By reducing speed limits in high-risk areas, we are not just complying with evidencebased road safety practices but also taking a significant step towards protecting our most vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists.

“Slower speeds in these areas can be the difference between life and death.

“The changes to these speed limits are about making our community safer, not just for today but for future generations.

“Every second counts when it comes to safety, and we believe this change will make a real difference in reducing fatalities and serious injuries.”

Impacted roads and timing of changes 40-kmh

■ Wallara Waters, Wallan – within six months. All roads within the Wallara Waters Residential Estate

■ Seymour Town Centre – within three months

Tallarook St

North of Whiteman Street to Station Street

Anzac Avenue

Station Street to east of Guild Street

Entire length of Station Street

Crawford Street

McIntyre Street

Collas Street

Butler Street

Wallis Street

Bishop Street

Tristan Street

William Street

Elizabeth Street

60-kmh

■ Darraweit Road, Wallan – effective immediately. Extending the 60-kmh zone, currently starting at Roulston Way, west to just past the intersection with Old Sydney Road 80-kmh

Entire length - within three months

Whitegate Road, Glenaroua

Broadford - Glenaroua Road, Broadford Sugarloaf Creek Road, Sugarloaf Creek

Tallarook - Pyalong Road, Tallarook Seymour - Pyalong Road, Seymour Avenel Road, Seymour – effective immediately

Between Seymour - Avenel Rd and the current transition point to 80 km/h Kobyboyn Rd, Seymour – effective immediately - Contibuted

Lib’s questions for Haines

■ Liberal candidate for Indi, James Trenery, says questions need to be put to incumbent MHR Helen Haines about phone towers in the local electorate.

“ Last week I said no new phone towers were funded in Indi since 2022. I was wrong. One new phone tower was funded in 2023,” Mr Trenery said.

“So that means, since 2022, one new phone tower was funded in Indi. This is an embarrassing number.

“From 2013 to the end of 2022, just under 70 phone towers were funded – this includes new towers or towers to be upgraded.

“From 2013 to 2022, the Liberals were in government, just under 70 phone towers funded.

“From 2022 to 2025, Labor has been in government, one phone tower funded.

“Either one of two things are therefore true: Either, one, Helen Haines has no power with this Labor Government and has not been able to get funding.

“Or, two, it was actually the Liberals in government that funded all these phone towers, and the independents took credit for it – which we know they like to do. This is a question that should be answered by Helen Haines before a vote is cast. Which one is it?” Mr Trenery said.

Mr Trebnery’s questions for Helen Haines:

■ Why has only one phone tower been funded in Indi over the past three years? (Do not include phone towers funded in previous terms and 'turned on' in the past three years.

■ Do you have no influence over Labor to deliver funding into Indi?

■ The correlation between phone towers delivered and government is hard to argue with. Do you agree that the Coalition Government in fact funded these phone towers in Indi?

MP welcomes incentives Bridge requests ignored

■ Indi MHR Helen Haines has welcomed incentives for cheaper home batteries after the ederal Government adopted what she ssaid is her policy to help reduce power bills for households, small business and community groups.

Dr Haines says she has pushed for home batteries to be included in the Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme through introduction of her own legislation in February 2022 and again in March 2023.

“In February 2022, and again in March 2023, I introduced legislation to make home batteries cheaper by including them in the Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme. This is the same mechanism that helps Australians benefit from rooftop solar, and it makes sense to do the same for home batteries,” Dr Haines said.

“This shows the power of having Independents in Parliament. I listened to local people in my electorate, brought forward a solution and campaigned on it, and now we see the major parties acting.

“Cheaper home batteries, the National AntiCorruption Commission, funding for enabling infrastructure for housing – these are all major areas where I have pushed for change and seen results on the national landscape.”

Time

to slow down

■ Mitchell Shire Council’s new speed limits will also apply to:

■ Extension of the existing 60-kmh zone to approximately 200 metres past Red Box Court

Also reducing the remaining length of Kobyboyn Rd to 80-kmh

■ Dry Creek Rd, Kilmore – effective immediately

■ Approximately 300m north of Nannys Creek Road at the current 60/100-kmh transition point to approximately 100 metres north of Smiths Lane

Dumping is not donating

■ A temporary bridge has been considered impractical by the Allan Labor Government as a solution to the pending closure of the Maroondah Aqueduct bridge on Eltham-Yarra Glen Rd while repairs take place, says Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish.

Speaking in Parliament, Ms McLeish requested that the Government investigate the installation of a temporary 44tonne bridge over the aqueduct, together with a temporary pedestrian footbridge.

“People are understandably worried and would like to see a temporary bridge and even a temporary footbridge as well for kids to be able to get across to go to school and into town,” Ms McLeish said.

A temporary structure was considered impractical, a State Minister who reported to say. They did not address the request for a temporary pedestrian footbridge.

■ Murrindindi Shire Council is urging residents to donate responsibly and avoid dumping items outside charity donation bins or op shops.

“While donating clothes and household goods in good condition to charities is a great way to support the community and reduce waste, leaving items outside donation bins or charity shops creates significant challenges,” said a Council re3presentative.

“These discarded items are often damaged by the weather or not fit for resale, meaning charities are left to foot the bill for disposal.”

Laura , a volunteer from the Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House and Op Shop, explained how the issue affects their team: "We absolutely love and appreciate the generosity of our community - their donations are what keep our Op Shop running and helping others. Every item sold helps fund important local programs like our Foodshare initiative and subsidised courses at the Neighbourhood House for people who may not be able to pay full fees.”

“However, we have an increasing number of items being dumped outside the shopoften in poor condition due to exposure to the weather. While we’re always grateful for donations, our volunteers shouldn’t have to sort through damaged or unsellable items, especially when they’ve been left out in the rain or overnight.”

“We kindly ask that donations be made during our opening hours, and that people consider whether the items are in good enough condition to sell. Unfortunately, when items are dumped and can’t be used, we have to pay for their disposal - and that takes funds away from the community programs that donations are meant to support."

Murrindindi Shire Council’s Community Wellbeing Portfolio Councillor Jodi Adams also expressed concern, urging residents to do the right thing.

“Dumping unwanted items is not only inconsiderate, but it also goes against the spirit of giving. If you want to help, make sure your donations are clean, in good condition and dropped off directly to op shops and charities during operating hours so volunteers can check they’re suitable for resale.”

“Council reminds residents that donating responsibly helps charities focus on their important work, rather than diverting resources to manage dumped goods,” Cr Adams said in a statement.

● ● James Trernery, Liberal candidate

● ● ● ● Cindy McLeish inspects Maroondah Aqueduct Bridge works at Yarra Glen, with two young locals, Angus and Jack.

Jodi Adams, Kinglake Ward

Local Football

Laurimar’s first win

■ A stunning eight-goal performance from Patrick Fitzgerald has led Laurimar to their first win of the 2025 Division 3 season, holding off a late comeback to beat Epping by 11 points at Epping Recreation Reserve

The Power led by 36 points during the lat- ter stages of the third term, before Epping piled on four unanswered goals in quick suc- cession to reduce the margin to two kicks.

However, Brad Hollow’s men could not further reduce the deficit, trading blows with a resilient Laurimar outfit who steadily saw out a 16.8 (104) to 14.9 (93) win.

Bailey Macleod and Luke Wilson combined fantastically in midfield, winning the clearance battle across the day, while Aidan Clarke and Joshua Leather both had successful stints in the ruck.

Kaiden Arthur produced a fantastic three- goal second quarter, thriving off the extra at- tention being paid to Patrick Fitzgerald up forward.

For the Blues, new recruit Matthew Williamson led his team’s goalkickers, scor- ing five majors alongside Daniel Rakhlin who slotted three.

Brent Macaffer continued his impressive start to life in navy blue, while Adrian Alfonsi and Alec Buchan also acted as major ballwinners for Epping

But from the first centre bounce, it was the Patrick Fitzgerald show.

One on one, the big man looked unstop- pable, taking marks on the lead, outmuscling his opponent and snapping a goal in conges- tion.

By the 15-minute mark of the opening term the ex-Montmorency star had claimed four goals, equaling his tally from Round 1.

Brad Hollow was forced to use Dallyce Taylor as a spare to temporarily stop the flood of opportunities coming Fitzgerald’s way.

At the other end, fellow new-recruit Matthew Williamson was also causing head- aches.

The Blues repeatedly looked for him in- side 50 and he kicked two crucial goals in the first term to steady the scoreboard.

Majors from Adrian Cirianni and Brent Macaffer also helped keep the Blues in touch, while Jacob Lawson and Jake Francis kept Laurimar’s pressure gauge at full throttle with a goal each.

On the quarter time siren, Daniel Rakhlin launched a drop-punt from the 50 metre arc to end a high-paced 11-goal quarter, with Laurimar carrying a five-point lead despite having the majority of time in their forward half.

The second term saw Laurimar capital- ise on their dominance, taking the lead in clearances as high-pressure players like William Jacovou and Bailey Macleod lifted their intensity.

With his leg-speed, Kaiden Arthur flourished on spread to illustrate Laurimar’s momentum.

He kicked back-to-back long-range goals in two minutes, showcasing the talent remi- niscent of his Team of the Year seasons.

Sebastian Latina responded with a goal after some brilliant tackling acts, before Laurimar piled on another three unanswered majors to see out a dominant five goal to one term.

When Patrick Fitzgerald notched up his 6th goal of the match and his 800th senior goal to start the second half, the game looked over until Epping surged with four goals in eightLedminutes. from a ruck switch between Michael Gillard and Liam Waldron, the Blues won clearance after clearance as belief spread.

Their ball movement became quicker and purposeful as Adrian Alfonsi racked up the possessions, alongside Lucas Aquilina and Mitchell Henwood.

But in the dying moments of the quarter after going goalless for nearly 20 minutes, the Power capitalised on a late opportunity to put a dagger through Epping’s heart.

Nearing the corner of the 50 metre arc, Joel Lawson marked with seconds left in the term and looked inboard for a kick, but the siren prevented him from doing so.

Suffering from cramp and a difficult long range effort, Lawson used every bit of en- ergy left within him to launch a deadly straight drop-punt and extend Laurimar’s lead to 19 points.The Blues would fight tooth and nail to bring the margin to single-digits, as Rakhlin and Williamson again hit the scoreboard to cancel out a goal from Laurimar’s Campbell Walker, but the Power always had a response for every question asked.

Fitzgerald ensured the lead stayed beyond reach as he claimed goal’s seven and eight consecutively, with Epping’s final two majors of the match arriving too late for any chance at a comeback.

Both sides now sit 1-1 leading into the Easter break, with each club mounting strong cases that they will be amongst the contend- ers come September.

- Tim MacDougall,

NFNL

New tourism partnership

■ Yarra Ranges Shire has endorsed the establishment of a new Visitor Economy Partnership following last week’sCouncil meeting.

This will help spread the funding of tourism initiatives across the region, a Council representative said.

“Aligning with the direction of the Victorian Government’s Visitor Economy 2021 Recovery and Reform Plan, a proposed Visitor Economy Partnership would see the transfer of Council’s current agreement with Yarra Ranges Tourism across to the new Visitor Economy Partnership on July 1.”

The establishment is subject to a decision from Cardinia Shire Council and Nillumbik Shire Council later this month.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Jim Child, said the change would mean enhanced partnerships with nearby Councils, better opportunities to access State and Federal funding and increased support for the wider region.

“Tourism is one of our most significant economic backbones here in the outer east,” Cr Child said.

“We have millions of visitors coming to the region every year, with numbers expected to increase upon completion of our flagship Ridges and Rivers projects,” Cr Child said in a statement.

Nillumbik grants open

■ Community groups and organisations can apply for a Nillumbik Triennial Festival and Event Program 20262029 grant until Sunday, June 1.

Grant funding is available to support exciting and diverse events that strengthen community connection and drive economic growth in the Nillumbik Shire.

The program is designed to support not-for-profit events within Nillumbik that attract both local and non-local attendGrants range from $10,000 to $65,000 per annum for events held over a threeyear period.

Nillumbik Mayor Cr John Dumaresq encouraged applications for new and innovative events.

“Each year, our community enjoys a fantastic calendar of festivals and events.”

Sod turned at West Wollert

■ “The West Wollert Community Centre will help to improve the health and wellbeing outcomes for residents at all stages of their lives,” said Whittlesea Mayor cr Aidan McLindon.

“Wollert’s population has grown – and will continue to grow – rapidly, making infrastructure like this community centre vital to meeting the needs and expectations of residents.”

Cr McLindon was at the turning of the first sod. The milestone was marked with a short ceremony held at the Jardin Rd site on Friday, April 4, to celebrate the official start of the centre’s construction.

Wollert’s population is expected to grow to more than 33,000 people by 2041 and with it the demand for essential community services.

The $16.2 million centre will provide a boost to early childhood education through the provision of a three-room kindergarten creating 198 new places.

Two Maternal and Child Health Services consulting rooms will give parents access to important health checks for their young children without the need to travel.

The community hall, kitchen, lounge, activity room and community garden will help Wollert residents to create valuable social connections.

■ Under clear skies and excellent autumn conditions 35 members and guest contested a Stroke and Putting round at Yea Golf Club on Saturday.

The fantastic scores recorded were a reflection of the wonderful course conditions on offer at the moment.

Brendan ‘Trout’ Chenhall (14) led all comers in the Mens Monthly Medal with 75 off the stick , 61 nett.

Mick Sheather (24) recorded a PB with 64 nett but had to settle for runner up.

Stephen Rumney (25) made a welcome return to form posting 67 nett to take home third place. John Renehan (51) and Trevor Connell (18) filled the minor placings with 68 nett.

There were no winners in the Mens NTP with the tee markers at the back mark on the 11th hole. John Paul Mullaly collected the putting award with 25 putts. Phil Armstrong was awarded the Club Award.

In the Ladies event Cindy Armstrong (26) continued her run of good form posting a fine nett 71 to take out first place.

Up and coming junior golfer Addison Scott (36) recorded a nett 72 to finish second. Di Elliott (27) also had a nice round , taking out third place with 74 nett.

Meryl Connell reaped the rewards of a great drive on the 11th hole , taking out NTP. Wednesday saw a mixed stableford event with 27 players playing. Winner with 41 points was Alan Pell (12) from second Jo Clayton (21) with 39 points.

Third with 38 points was the improving Caroline Webber (47) from fourth Rob O’Halloran (21) on CB from Sam Wright (26) and Jan Wealands (29) all with 37 points. Jo Clayton was NTP on the 11th and Rob Gill took out the Club Award.

- Alan Pell

Goulburn Valley FL

■ Seniors. Rochester 11.7 (73) d Mooroopna 9.12 (66). Shepparton Swans 16.13 (109) d Seymour 11.5 (71). Echuca 12.18 (90) d Euroa 7.8 (50). Shepparton Seniors 24.14 (168) d Benalla 10.11 (71). Mansfield 13.15 (93) d Shepparton United 12.4 (76). Kyabram 22.28 (160) d Tatura 5.2 (32).

■ Reserves. Rochester 10.10 (70) d Mooroopna 4.8 (31). Shepparton Swans 10.7 (67) d Seymour 8.4 (52). Shepparton 16.13 (109) d Benalla 5.1 (31). Mansfield 13.13 (91) d Shepparton United 4.2 (26). Kyabram 21.20 (146) d Tatura 0.0 (0).

■ Under 18. Mooroopna 6.12 (48) d Rochester 5.9 (39). Shepparton 13.8 (86) d Seymour 7.6 (48). Sheppartonm 21.26 (146) d Benalla 1.3 (9). Shepparton United 11.15 (81) d Seymour 5.9 (39). Kyabram 17.15 (117) d Tatura 2.2 (14).

● ● Brendan Chenall

Where

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

■

Court Lists

Seymour Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings

Wednesday, April 16

Local Briefs

Epping

collision

■

■

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Corner Hotel. 65 Grant St.

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Endeavour Alexandra (BP). 10 Downey St.

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

■ ■ ■ ■ WATTLE GLEN. Peppers

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

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

■ ■ WESBURN. Hotel. 2882 Warburton Hwy.

■ WONGA PARK. IGA Xpress.

Radobuljac, Ivica Thursday, April 17

■

■

■

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Foodworks. 102 Grant St.

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Mount Pleasant Hotel. 90 Grant St.

■

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

■ ■ WHITTLESEA. El Azar Milk Bar. 13 Church St.

70 Jumping Creek Rd.

■ WOORI YALLOCK. Hillcrest Little Store. 1745 Warburton Hwy.

■

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Nutrien Harcourts. 56 Grant St.

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Shamrock Hotel. 80 Grant St.

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Simpson’s Fuel (Caltex). 25 Aitken St.

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Totally Trout. 42 Downey St.

■ ■ BUXTON. Blue Igloo Roadhouse. 2200 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ BUXTON. Buxton Hotel. 2192 Maroondah Hwy.

■

■ BUXTON. Shell Buxton. 2093 Maroondah Hwy.

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

■

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

■

■ EILDON. Foodworks. 18 Main St.

■

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

■

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

■

■ ■ ■ ■ EPPING. Epping RSL. Harvest Home Rd.

■

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

■ ■ ■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Royal Mail Hotel. 29 Beech St.

■ ■ ■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Whittlesea Bowls Club. 101 Church St.

■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Whittlesea Court House. 74 Church St.

■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Whittlesea NewsXpress. 45 Church St.

■ ■ ■ ■ WOLLERT. Wollert General Store. 491 Epping Rd.

■ ■ YARCK. Buck’s Country Bakehouse. 6585 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ YARCK. Giddy Goat Cafe. 6606 Maroondah Hwy.

■

■ ■ ■ ■ YARCK. Yarck Hotel. Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ YEA. Amble Inn Cafe. 24 High St.

■

■ YEA. Country Club Hotel. 18 High St.

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

■ WOORI YALLOCK. Woori Yallock Newsagency. Shop 4,1585 Warburton Hwy.

■ ■ YARRA GLEN. IGA Supermarket. 1/38 Bell St.

■ YARRA GLEN. Yarra Glen Newsagency. 32 Bell St.

■ YARRA JUNCTION. Yarra Junction Newsagency. 2454 Warburton Hwy.

Mitchell

Shire Edition

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

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Corner Store. 89 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Hotel. 100 High St.

■ ■ BROADFORD. Broadford Newsagency. 67 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Post Office. 123 High St.

Austin, Mark Binks-Brown, Nick Joshua Binks-Brown, William Clegg, Ricky Cleveland, Brady Crowley, Frank Joesph Dickenson, Daniel Robert Elmaaraoui, Ahmed Goodwin, Andrew Hartman, David Izzard, Jaxon Regan Kilroy, Seth Lufted, Joshua Luppert, Chantelle Moore-Wiggett, James Allan Murphy, Ziek Patrick Nesbitt, Anthony O'toole, Nicholas Oz Timber Pty Ltd Pritchard, Jason Qudrati, Ali Salmon, Madison Saunders, Chris Wayne Scicluna, Brandon Sharma, Ravneel Smith, Brandon Smith, Kadel Thomas, Shannon Louise Walker, Rory Walley, Adrian Wilkins, Jacob

Friday, April 18

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a fatal collision in Epping on Friday afternoon (Apr. 11).

Emergency services were called to reports a car had collided with a parked truck on Jersey Drive about 2.05pm.

A male passenger of the car died at the scene. The driver, a 41-year-old Wallan man, was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

The truck driver was uninjured.

Exact circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be determined and investigations remain ongoing.

Carjacking, crash

■ Police have arrested a man following a series of incidents in St Kilda and South Morang ton Friday morning (Apr. 11).

It is believed the man threatened the driver of a silver Mitsubishi ASX with a bottle, before stealing his car at the intersection of St Kilda Rd and Charles St, St Kilda about 3.15am. The driver of the Mitsubishi was not injured.

The stolen Mitsubishi collided with a black Toyota Hilux and a Grey Ford Ranger at the intersection of Plenty Rd and The Lakes Boulevard, South Morang just after 5.30am.

The driver and sole occupant of the Toyota was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

■

■

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

■ ■ FLOWERDALE. Hazeldene

General Store. 6 Curlings Rd.

■

■

■

■ GLENBURN. Glenburn Roadhouse. 3883 Melba Hwy.

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

■ ■ KANGAROO GROUND. Kangaroo Ground General Store. 280 Eltham-Yarra Glen Rd.

■

■

■

■ ■ KINGLAKE. Cafe. WhittleseaKinglake Rd.

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

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

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

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

■ ■ MANSFIELD. Foodworks. 119 High St.

■ ■ MARYSVILLE. Foodworks. 40A Darwin St.

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

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

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

■ ■ NARBETHONG. Black Spur Roadhouse. 264 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ PANTON HILL. Panton Hill General Store. 586 Kangaroo Ground-St Andrews Rd.

■

■ PANTON HILL. Panton Hill Hotel. 633 Kangaroo Ground-St Andrews Rd.

■

■ PHEASANT CREEK. Flying Tarts Cafe. 888 WhittleseaKinglake Rd.

■ ■ PHEASANT CREEK. Pheasant Creek Store. 884 Whittlesea-Kinglake Rd.

■

■ RESEARCH. Research Post Office. 1546 Main Rd.

■

■

■

■ ■ SMITHS GULLY. Smiths Gully General Store. 914 Kangaroo Ground-St Andrews Rd.

■ ■ ■ ■ SOUTH MORANG. Milk Bar.

15 Gorge Rd.

■ ■ ST ANDREWS. St Andrews General Store. 10 Caledonia St.

■ ■ ST ANDREWS. St Andrews Hotel. 79 Burns St.

■

■

■ ■ STRATH CREEK. Strath Creek Post Office. 8 Glover Rd.

■ ■ TAGGERTY. Taggerty General Store. 26 Taggerty-Thornton Rd.

■ ■ THORNTON. 4 Ways Diner.

1369 Taggerty-Thornton Rd.

■

■ ■ ■ THORNTON. Rubicon Hotel. 1362 Taggerty-Thornton Rd.

■

■

■ ■ YEA. Foodworks. 10 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Giddy Coat Cafe. 94 High St.

■

■ YEA. Grand Central Hotel. 64 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Marmalades. 20 High St.

■

■ ■ ■ ■ YEA. Mint and Jam. 46 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Nutrien Harcourts. 52

High St.

■ ■ YEA. Peppercorn Hotel. 21 Station St.

■ ■ YEA. Provender Bakery. 56 High St.

■ ■ ■ YEA. Rendezvous In Yea. 10

■

High St.

■ ■ YEA. Royal Mail Hotel. 88

High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Service Station. 165 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Commercial Hotel. 31 High St.

■

■ ■ BROADFORD. High Street Bakery. 67A High St.

■ BROADFORD. IGA Supermarket. 65 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Stuty’s Bakehouse. 91-93 High St.

■ ■ DONNYBROOK. Donnybrook Hotel. 825 Donnybrook Rd.

■ ■ DONNYBROOK. Donnybrook Post Office. 810 Donnybrook Rd.

■ KILMORE. BP. 102 Sydney St.

■ KILMORE. Kemp’s Bakery. 65 Sydney St.

Docking, Sarah Annika Mowbray, Adam Thursday, April 24

The driver and sole occupant of the Ford was not injured.

The Mitsubishi’s occupant fled the scene on foot.

A passerby stopped to assist when the alleged offender returned and stole the passerby’s white Volkswagen Golf.

The stolen Volkswagen crashed into a pole at the intersection of McKimmies and Plenty Rd, Bundoora a short time later.

A 31-year-old Mitcham man was arrested nearby attempting to flee the area on a tram. He was taken to hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries.

He was expected to be interviewed by police.

■

■ YEA. Yea Bakery. 44 High St.

■ ■ KILMORE. Kilmore Bakery. 54 Sydney St.

Business support

■ ■ YEA. Yea Newsagency. 74

■

■

High St.

■ ■ ■ ■ YEA. Yea Take-Away. 68 High St.

Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express Edition

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

■

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

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. BP. 66 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Coles Express. 123 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Grand Hotel. 270 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Healesville Newsagency. 195 Maroondah Hwy.

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

■ KILMORE. Kilmore Newsagency. 41 Sydney St.

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

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

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

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

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

■

■ SEYMOUR. Seymour NewsXpress. 66 Station St.

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

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

■ SEYMOUR. Royal Hotel. 26 Emily St.

■

■

■ SEYMOUR. Terminus Hotel. 26 Station St.

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

■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook General Store. 36 Main Rd.

Anderson, Paul Dallas Damarda, Mustafa Doyle, Danielle Harding, Alistair Heath, Dwayne Hore, Andrew William Illingworth, Frances Izzard, James Lapworth, Brock Leech, Brian Ross Maino-Hennessy, Dale Mutimer, Clinton Ronald Nally, Rebecca Norton, Jacob Richard Pemberton, Andrew Porter, Sally Puppa-Elson, Georgia Ramsdale, Maddison Samantha Romero, Julian Alonso Sanderson, Mathew Sharp, Jake Taylor, Natasha Jane Wylie, James Mansfield Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, April 16 Attallah, Duraid Adwar Clark, Daniel Dove, Michael Ian Hanson, Shane Makowski, Peter Mcleod, Benjamin James Nicholls, Richard David Stastra, Joanne Strongman, Matthew Trika, Jeffrie Van Etten, Paul Jeffery

Wednesday, April 23

Jenkins, Christopher Monk, Michelle Savaris, Anthony Stewart, Patrick

■ Thomastown MLA Bronwyn Halpenny spoke in Parliament about State Government support for local businesses.

“My question is to the Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing [Colin Brooks]

“I have been approached by local business Deep Hole Drilling Specialists, who previously received support from the State Government to install a biochar production system that uses a pyrolytic heat process.

“The company produces the biochar from non-chemical-treated pine crates sourced through the circular economy.

“Clean heat from this process is, in turn, used in the company’s preheated ovens for the deep drilling process, thus reducing the reliance on gas.

“The company is now looking for opportunities to sell the biochar. Biochar can be used in agricultural applications but also as an industrial agent for improving chemical properties of materials including concrete, asphalt, industrial ink, paints and resins.

■

■

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

■

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

■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook Hotel. 15 Main Rd.

■

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

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

■

■

■ ■ LILYDALE. Lilydale Newsagency. 237 Main St.

■ ■ MILLGROVE. Licensed Grocery. 3043 Warburton Hwy.

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

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

■

■ WALLAN EAST. New Rattlers Inn. Station St.

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

■

■

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

■ ■ SEVILLE. Wooworths Seville. 568 Warburton Hwy.

■

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

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

■

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

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

■

■

■ ■ WARBURTON. Bakery. 3415 Warburton Hwy.

■ ■ WARRANDYTE. Grand Hotel.

140 Yarra St.

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

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

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

Wednesday, April 30 Adams, Dean Stewart Atar, Kaylan Bano, Micaela Bishop, Corrie Blay, Andrew Blyss, Xander Bradley, Paul Gregory Callen, Peter Richard Dib, Andrew Dmytruk, Mykola Fairy, David Fidden, Jonathan Files, Billy Goschnick, Dean Gregory Hall, Ethan Hoysted, Kurt Robert Ischovits, Jake Kiryk, Dane Jesse Mccleery, Jye Mcleish, Daniel Nugent, Tristan Rippon, Geoffrey John Todero, Jason Van Winden, Christopher Vangeli, David Ian Xu, Lisha Xue, Jun Young, Christopher

“Minister, what is the government doing to support business in my electorate to locate markets and educate industry about the benefits of such products and processes?” Ms Halfpenny asked.

Spring St visit

■ Eltham MLA Vicki Ward recognised a visit to State Parliament by local women:

“It was a wonderful opportunity to meet with a range of first responders, including Fire Rescue Victoria firefighters and members of the SES, CFA, Ambulance Victoria and Victoria Police

“I would particularly like to thank Mel and Lacey from the Nillumbik SES for joining me in Parliament,” Ms Ward said.

The next ssue of The Local Paper is scheduled for Wednesday, April 30. Deadline for advertising bookings and content is 4pm Thursday, April 24. There will be no digital issue on April 23.

Victoria Pictorial

Dandenong

Historic Photo Collection

● ● ● ● Dandenong Post Office

● ● Dandenong. 1915.

● ● The old stone bridge, Dandenong

● ● ● ● Dandenong Market. 1931.

● ● Lonsdale St, Dandenong. 1938.

● ● Dandenong Market. 1963. ● ● ● ● Elevated view. Dandenong. 1938.

● ● ● ● Dandenong Town Hall

(Back load Specialist. Conditions apply)

24 HOURS7 DAYS A WEEK

(Scrap bin available)

Observer Melbourne

Les Miserables arrives in Australia Les Miserables arrives in Australia

Meet The Candidates

Helen Huang for Melbourne Fusion Party

HELEN HUANG for HUANG for for

Melbourne (F (F Melbourne (F (F usion P usion P ar ar ar ar ar ty) ty) ty) ty)

Helen is a proud Australian of Chinese heritage, a single mother, a writer, an architectural designer, a domestic builder and a dynamic business entrepreneur.

Helen has lived in Melbourne for 30 years and values our democracy. As your local representative, she prioritizes the needs of residents, businesses and workers.

Together we'll develop progressive

policies for our community.

https://www.fusionparty.org.au/ helen_huang_melbourne https://helenhuanginde.com.au/ A New Melbourne (A national hub for innovation, industry & finance/ High-speed rail)

■ Foster innovation by reducing bureaucracy, investing in science and technology and creating a competitive industry.

■ Boost the economy by utilizing Australia’s seawater for renewable hydrogen energy.

■ Build a high-speed rail link between Melbourne and the airport Reducing Cost of Living Reducing Cost of Living

■ Controlling Inflation through housing reforms, energy bill relief, stopping supermarket gouging.

■ Boost Funding for Community & Public Housing programs to ensure affordable housing.

■ Promoting Universal Basic Income (UBI) to empower people have a balanced life.

■ More bulk-billing Medicare clinics & 7-11 clinics, also covering essential dental & mental health check-ups.

Build a Harmonious Society Build a Harmonious Society

■ Create an organization that protects whistleblowers.

■ Strengthen police departments at key locations for quick crime response.

■ Develop more green spaces to connect with nature and build community friendships.

Helen Huang

● ● Les Miserables The Arena Spectacular has arrived in Australia. There will be 15 performances in Melbourne. Details inside.

Melbourne Observer

Established 1969 EDITORIAL COMMENT

Elections

fought locally

Our community newspapers - under The Local Paper banner - cover 31 of the 38 Federal Election divisions in Victoria. Those divisions have 3.2 million electors.

In print and online, our local editions comprehensively reach young and old people throughout each electorate.

Our newspapers are committed to strong, public interest journalism without fear. We present a robust coverage of local news, and we are not frightened to share opinions.

The candidates for the May 3 Federal Elections have been declared, and in this issue we list the nominees for the House of Representatives and Senate, in ballot paper order.

A worrying trend is that many Party-aligned candidates stay silent, and leave the debates to the Albaneses and Duttons of this world.

Increasingly, there is the disturbing trend towards Presidential-style elections.

Elections are won and lost at the local level. Candidates ignore local readers at their peril.

Give that they may grow

Alongside the solemn religious observances of GoodFriday, Victorians come together this week to raise funds for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

Our firends at The Herald & Weekly Times Ltd, publishers of the Herald Sun, throw their weight into co-ordinating the Appeal, which last year raised a record-breaking $23,368,724.

The annual telethon will be broadcast from the Docklands studios of Channel 7.

Groups from all over the State will come together with special events to raise funds for Victoria’s health showpiece.

Money will be collected with tin shakes, sausage sizzles, highway collections and public events.

Victorians can donate, using the Appeal website - www.GoodFriday Appeal.com.au - or by ringing the Appeal phoneroom on 1300 277 325.

Since 1931, over $468 million has been raised to deliver the best possible care to patients and their families at the ‘kids’ hospital’.

Under resourced, unprepared

Sir,

As an ordinary citizen with an interest in military history and current world affairs I feel compelled to submit the following.

I will leave specifics to better qualified Defence experts however I feel able to comment on some defence aspects that appear to be currently ignored.

The present state of Australia's Defence infrastructure is not dissimilar to the position that confronted the nation in the early 1940s.

Under resourced, unprepared, and relying on external nations for our Defence (Singapore Strategy).

The basic tenets of conflicts have not changed much over the centuries.

Megalomaniacs, religion, or the theft of land and resources. The latter especially applies when land is under utilised and under valued.

Food and food supply chains along with the water required are already critical in many parts of the world.

The north of Australia is under populated, lacking infrastructure and under utilised. Vision and leadership have been lacking for decades.

A Bradfield Scheme or something similar is urgently required. This is where the waters of northern coastal rivers are diverted inland for productive purposes.

Northern and Central Australia could become a food bowl for much of Asia and the world. The whole Australian concept of creating a few coastal mega cities with extraordinarily expensive infrastructure needs urgent review.

The lack of long term vision extends to many areas. We are now (decades late) only starting to progress the Inland Rail project, vital infrastructure.

Congratulations to all those who have finally got it off the ground. However, 80 years on from the end of WW II, the lack of a standard gauge rail network is still a real impediment to the movement of heavy goods and equipment around much of the nation.

The same applies to the lack of sovereign marine transport, or the poor standard of some strategic roads across central Australia (Outback Way).

Australia requires leadership from both its politicians and bureaucracy especially in matters defence. The problems associated with procurement and capabilities have long been outlined by defence experts with limited results and much bureaucracy.

This nation has been extremely slow to react. The same applies to recognising the importance of food production, agricultural support and adequate supply chains to deliver produce to ports.

The biggest impediment to improving this current situation is expecting different or better outcomes and results when the same people and organisations are still in control. There needs to be a real

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.

overhaul of the bureaucracy that runs this country. This situation has evolved over many years and all sides of politics bear responsibility.

- Bill Chisholm, Tooborac

Not pliant to Council

Sir,

I note with great interest in The Local Paper, the one not pliant to Murrindindi Council – the article concerning Charles Exton’s six years of frustration with the Murrindindi Shire for a permit.

It’s no surprise to me, as a former councilor and political activist, I came to the conclusion, most councilors are more interested in what they perceive as status in the community, and the now payment to councilors.

Many people, well remember the TV series ‘Yes Minister’.

Many councilors reflect this show and Murrindindi councilors are no exception.

Councilors should question their officers closely on their recommendations.

Lazy councilors just follow the council officers’ recommendations, and don’t give time to analytical thought to the subject being proposed to the meeting.

Ray Donkin

2033 Maroondah Hwy Buxton

Death is guaranteed

Sir, Easter, one cross - one love.

He carried his cross up to Calvary, embraced it. Already flogged by the Romans, he allowed himself to be nailed, hung on this cross. His loved ones fled, abandoned him in the hour of trial, the enemies mocked where he bleeding, suffering looked down on them and said "Father, forgive them!".

What is this, how is such sacrificial love possible? This Jesus, who became the world's most famous name, and whose birth marks the beginning of our calendar era and whose book, the Bible b ecame the most read. The answer can only be found in that very book, where it says "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life". So it was love for each of us with the purpose of saving us to eternal life.

Death is 100 percent guaranteed for everyone, no one escapes. But, this Jesus who also died on the cross is said to have conquered death and rose from the dead on the third day. I think we need an explanation here, how is this possible? We find the answer in that Bible again. It says that "the wages of sin is death", and that Jesus as the Son of God lived a sinless life, and therefore death could not keep him.

Now we know that we ordinary people sin every day. We slander, lie, exploit, hate and treat each other unlovingly, etc.

The list is as endless as this Jesus' love for us when he takes on all our billions of sins on the cross, like a giant magnet. And before God the Father, he therefore says "Forgive them!", and what could God then do other than just forgive us when our sins have been removed on the cross. Through this forgiveness and freedom from sin, the way has suddenly been opened to eternal life, when death lost its right to keep us.

The greatest question and fear of every human heart, is it probably "death"? Should we just cease to exist as if we never existed, a dot that fades, vanish into nothingness? The one who defeated death responds in a sacrificial and love-filled "No, believe in Me and you will live", because as the Bible finally says: “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting? The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ".

Love on the cross has spoken, can we ignore and rush on to the meaningless, emptiness of the grave and death, or do we choose to believe and rejoice in a wonderful eternal future with the prince of Life, Jesus Christ? - Peter Kujala. by mail

Games chiefs

■ Lewis Luxton, managing director of the Shell Co. of Australia, was appointed deputy chairman of the Olympic Games Organising Committee.

He was appointed after the committee last night expressed complete confidence in Mr. Kent Hughes as chairman.

Mr. Luxton is one of the two Australian members of the International Olympic Committee.

He was responsible for the appointment of Lt. Gen. W. Bridgeford as chief executive officer for the Games

Blushes spared

■ Police Commissioner Porter has saved 120 policemen from blushing a deep scarlet.

For six months police living in Russell st. barracks have been undressing almost in public.

Blinds were taken from their .bedrooms to be repaired last October.

The police have complained that girls from nearby buildings have been watching them disrobe - and even using binoculars!

They pleaded to officials, but for months there was no result.

Two weeks ago newly elected Police Commissioner Porter inspected the rooms. Yesterday the blinds were being draped.

Train attack

■ Terrified 15-year-old schoolgirl clambered precariously along the out side of a speeding Lilydale-bound train yesterday to escape from a youth.

She fell into another compartment after clinging frantically to handrails as she inched her way along the narrow footboard of the swaying train for 25ft.

The girl stumbled from the train at Lilydale, and gasped out her story to the station-master.

She said she was on her way home, from Box Hill Technical School to Healesville in a "dogbox" compartment.

Other passengers got out at Mooroolbark, leaving her alone with a youth.

As the train began the four-mile downhill run to Lilydale the youth attempted to molest her, she said.

Terrified, she flung open the door, swung out on to the footboard, and slithered along for three compartment lengths before staggering in side to safety.

● The Argus. April 16, 1955

● ● ● ● Martin Cruz, Eric Williams, Penny Williams, Elias Eracleous

● ● Frank Lombardo, Phillip Barravecchio and the Bunnings Team.

● ● ● ● Deputy Grand Master Myles King thanked Western Suburbs volunteers.

● ● ● Matthew Henshall was a volunteer helping the Good Friday Appeal

● ● ● ● Rob Taylor, Steve Simpson, Steve Latimer and Marc Class

●

● Murray Luxford, Arthur Lynch, Bruce McCallum, John Crimmins

● Freemasons Grand Master Peter Henshall, ‘First Lady’ Sharon Henshall

● ● ● ● Greg White and Dan Sova

Bunnings Croydon

Bunnings Carrum Downs

Bunnings Port Melbourne

Bunnings Bendigo

Bunnings Mernda

Bunnings Coburg

●

Chrissie Bellbrae with her debut novel The Florentine Quilt.

■ Congratulations to Victorian writer Chrissie Bellbrae on releasing her debut novel The Florentine Quilt.

While working in education, Chrissie undertook a Fiona McIntosh Masterclass and completed her first manuscript. She says she hasn’t stopped writing since.

The novel is inspired by Chrissie's lifelong interest in art and fabric, stories her grandmother told her, and remarkable women who cross the sea to begin new lives.

Chrissie says she draws from her ancestry research to create characters “with more remarkable lives than my ancestors might have experienced”.

Her dual narratives depict women during times of social and emotional change, and aim to transport readers from past to present.

The Florentine Quilt tells of three women connected in time to a medieval quilt, and an ancient tale of forbidden love.

Each woman pays the price for love - and for her differences.

Is the missing scene from the Florentine quilt the key to unlocking more than one woman's forgotten story?

The Florentine Quilt can be purchased from amazon.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Throuple the Musical

■ Following a sellout season at Grouse Melbourne in 2024, Bree Carroll, Ava Grayland and Kadee Axiak present Throuple the Musical until April 20 at The Grace Darling Hotel in the Band Room.

This jukebox parody follows Kadee and Bree as they decide to bring a third person into their relationship after a failed proposal. Enter Ava, who is eager to get away from her 'boring' husband and son.

The decision is said to instigate 'a musical descent into utter madness, through dysfunctional dinners, jealousies, jail-breaks and murder.'

Performance Details: Until April 20 at 8.45pm

Venue: The Grace Darling Hotel (Band Room), 114 Smith St, Collingwood

Duration: 45 minutes

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au

(Suitable for audiences 15+)

Audience participation, mild language, strong sexual references, sudden loud noises, references to or simulation of violence.

SHADOW BOXING

■ Feet First Collective and Theatre Works present Shadow Boxing from May 14-24 at Theatre Works' Explosives Factory, St Kilda.

Written by James Gaddas, Shadow Boxing tells of Flynn - he's strong, he's a boxer, and ... gay. Having lived in the shadow of his father's failed boxing career, he's then cruelly outed.

Shadow Boxing is described as 'a challenging solo work exploring identity, through examining masculinity, violence, sexuality and vulnerability.

It follows Flynn's journey through the challenges he encounters, both inside and outside of the ring.

In a minimalistic boxing setting, performer Samuel Addison embodies five characters as Flynn shares his story.

Shadow Boxing dives deep into Flynn’s experience and the raw, gritty world of masculinity.

It challenges us to confront what drives men to violence and address their emotional turmoil.

With high male suicide rates and rising gender-based violence, it’s a catalyst for crucial conversations about identity, respect, and change.

Director Teresa Izzard said: “Shadow Boxing offers a potent experience, features a stunning performance and deals with confronting, timely subject matter.

“It challenges us to confront the roots of male violence and examine how we treat anyone who is different: is the only option to leave them all alone fighting for their lives?”

Performance Dates: Preview May 14, Season May 15-17, 20-24

Time: 7.30pm (55 min)

Venue: Theatre Works’ Explosives Factory, Rear Laneway 67 Inkerman Street, St Kilda.

Link: https://www.theatreworks.org.au/2025/ shadow-boxing

- Cheryl Threadgold

Comedy Roulette

■ Hosted by comedian Kru Harale, Comedy Roulette is a fun, mostly improvised piece showcasing seven comedians in one hour.

Each show plays host to a different line up though some artists may be invited back. This is a great way to see a variety of talent in one place.

The format as explained by Harale is for each comedian to perform some of their standup routine then spin an electronic wheel which has various topics they can then speak or tell jokes about, hopefully being funny.

If the topic really did not suit, some would spin again, however most used the topic given, coming up with some very funny stories or gags.

Each performer spun at least three times, sometimes calling on the audience for inspiration.

One topic on the wheel was audience choice; on this night the suggestion from the audience was 'your worst outfit' to which comedian Lizzy Hoo weaved a very funny visual of a terrible outfit from her past.

MC Harale had a warm friendly vibe, as did all of the comedians on this night.

For some of the artists this was a chance to promote their own show in the festival. I did wish the wheel was real, not computer generated as this may have allowed for the audience to get more involved by someone having a spin, as well as ensuring where it stopped was not pre-planned, though I think the topics were genuinely a surprise to each performer.

Hats off to all the comedians on this night. As well as Harale and Hoo there was Daniel Connell, He Huang, Nick Capper , Sumukhi Suresh, Jess Fuchs

All fresh faces, quick witted with something humorous to say.

Comedy Roulette is a definite late night winner in this festival, and with the line up changing each show it is one worth revisiting to see more unique storytelling or stand up routines.

Performance Season: Until April 18 at 10.20pm

Venue: Melbourne Town Hall Lunch Room

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au

- Review by Elizabeth Semmel

The Jane Austen Experience

■ Now in its 32nd year, Theatre of the Winged Unicorn presents The Jane Austen Experience f rom May 2-18 at the historic Ceres Hall in the Barrabool Hills, just eight kilometres from Geelong

Devised and directed by Elaine Mitchell, The Jane Austen Experience will feature an ensemble of 10 actors who will perform a number of favourite scenes from some of Austen's novels: Emma, Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Mansfield Park and Persuasion.

Elaine Mitchell says the production will be beautifully costumed and presented in a classic setting.

“We pay tribute not only to Jane Austen's skill as an author but also to her observation and perception in identifying the basic and unchanging truths of human nature.

“Whatever she produced was the genuine home-made article and she herself wrote: ‘I must keep to my own style and go my own way!’

“She never sought fame, recognition or celebrity, but was content in her own creative space in the heart of home.”

Elaine points out that Austen's name did not appear on any of her books published till after her death at age 41 in 1817.

Performance season: May 2-18

Venue: The Ceres Hall, Barrabool Hills (just 8kms from Geelong)

Bookings: trybooking.com/CYJTN or email contact: unicornceres@gmail.com, mobile 0478 933 758.

- Cheryl Threadgold

● ● ●

● Amelia Halmarick (at left) (Siobhan), Christina Percival (Ensemble), Freddy Collyer (Christopher), Morgan Thomas-Connor (Ensemble) with Sam Wyles and Mandy Murray at rehearsals for the Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company presents The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time from April 25 to May 10 at 36 Turnham Avenue, Rosanna

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is adapted by Simon Stephens from the novel by Mark Haddon.

The story tells of Christopher Boone, an extremely clever and intelligent young man, whose mild autism sometimes makes it difficult for him to understand what is unfolding around him.

But when he finds his neighbour’s dog Wellington murdered in mysterious circumstances, Christopher turns detective. His investigation takes him on a very surprising and challenging journey.

Performance Season: April 25, 30, May 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 10 at 8p,m; April 26, 27, May 3, 4 at 2pm Venue: Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosalla Bookings: htc.org.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Drone Art Show

■ DroneArt Show is is set to dazzle Melburnians for two nights only at 6pm on May 23-24 at Caulfield Racecourse

Gate 2, Station St, Caulfield East. Duration: 65 minutes. Tickets: Available at thedroneartshow.com/melbourne

Rosemary wins

■ The National Art School has announced Rosemary Lee as the winner of the 24th Dobell Drawing Prize, Australia’s leading prize for drawing, worth $30,000.

Selected from 56 nationwide finalists, and 965 entries, NAS alumna Rosemary Lee’s work will become part of the National Art School’s significant collection, built over the past 120 years.

Rosemary, in her winning work 24-1 (2024), observes tonal and compositional profundity in everyday life.

The judging panel comprised First Nations artist Vernon Ah Kee, Paula LatosValier, Trustee and Art Director of the Sir William Dobell Art Foundation, and Dr Yolunda Hickman, Head of Postgraduate Studies, National Art School.

Les Miserables

■ Cameron Mackintosh, in association with Nick Grace Managements and Live Nation Australia, have announce that final casting has been confirmed for the Australian leg of Les Miserables The Arena Spectacular.

Due to demand, extra performances were added at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne from May 14 for 15 performances.

The newly added and final performances in Melbourne will be at Rod Laver Arena on Saturday-Sunday, May 24-25.

Singer songwriter Shan Ako stars as Éponine in Australia . Sharing the role of Gavroche will be Christopher Joseph , Sebastian Sero, Orlando Steiner and William Steiner.

- Contributed

● ● ● ● Samuel Addison in Shadow Boxing.

Photo: James Dove

● ● Julie Fryman in The Jane Austen Experience.

● ● ● ● Bree Carroll (left), Ava Grayland and Kadee Axiak in Throuple the Musical.

Photo: Aislinn Ryan

German Film Festival

■ Palace in collaboration with German Films will present the HSBC German Film Festival in Melbourne from April 30-May 28 at Palace Cinemas, Palace Nova and Luna Palace Cinemas.

The 2025 line-up features a selection of twenty films, including six films direct from the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale), compelling biopics and documentaries that delve into the lives of Germany’s most iconic artists, comedies and family films, plus Australian premiere screenings from a bold new generation of German filmmakers.

Long term collaborators German Films commented: “We are having another successful year for German cinema – you can see the strong presence of German films at the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) with films like What Marielle Knows and Hysteria.

“A very special event will be the screening of the documentary Riefenstahl with director Andres Veiel in attendance. We wish all our Australian viewers a wonderful cinematic experience.”

Opening the festival is one of Germany’s biggest box office hits, the romantic comedy Long Story Short (Feste und Freunde – Ein Hoch auf uns!) featuring an all-star cast including Laura Tonke, Ronald Zehrfeld and Trystan Pütter.

A hilarious and poignant celebration of love and friendship, the film follows a group of friends through a series of special occasions.

From the 2025 Berlinale, where it gained much attention, is Mehmet Akif Büyükatalay’s provocative thriller Hysteria, the festival Centrepiece

A piercing reflection on the power of images and the dynamics of perception, projection and social hysteria, the film features one of European cinema’s most exciting new stars Devrim Lingnau as an assistant director intern who is drawn into a dangerous game of secrets, lies and paranoia on a film set when a burned Quran is discovered.

Closing Night is the Berlinale hit Mother's Baby from Austrian director Johanna Moder. Marie Leuenberger delivers a standout performance alongside Hans Löw and Claes Bang in this chilling psychological thriller about a woman’s strange experience in a private fertility clinic.

German box office hit comedyTwo to One (Zwei zu eins) with an all-star cast, led by Academy Award nominee Sandra Hüller, is a festival Special Presentation.

Directed by Natja Brunckhorst (who starred as Christiane F. in the iconic 1981 film of the same name), the film is based on incredible true events set in 1990 when a group of East Germans take advantage of the chaotic economic situation to pull off a highly entertaining heist of soon-to-be-worthless East German marks.

In co-operation with the Goethe-Institut Australia, the festival is thrilled to be welcoming Riefenstahl director Andres Veiel, who will be participating in a series of Q and A events.

For full details of the German Film Festival program with many more films of various genres to see during the Festival, visit germanfilmfestival.com.au/

German Film Festival Dates: April 30May 28. Venues: Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay, Palace Cinema Como, Palace Westgarth, The Kino, The Astor Theatre, Pentridge Cinema, Palace Penny Lane Bookings and further information: germanfilmfestival.com.au/ - Cheryl Threadgold

Normie Rowe

■ Australian music icon Normie Rowe stars in Normie – The Story So Far, a live show capturing the highs, lows and unforgettable moments of a legendary career performing at Memo Hall, St Kilda; Frankston Arts Centre; and Bunjil Place, Narre Warren Memo Music Hall – St Kilda - Sunday May 25, 3pm. Frankston Arts Centre – Monday May 26, 2pm. Bunjil Place – Narre Warren - Tuesday May 27, 2pm

Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

NICE WORK IF YOU CAN GET IT Confidential

■ CLOC Musical Theatre presents the razzledazzle musical comedy Nice Work If You Can Get It from May 16-31 at the National Theatre, St Kilda.

Set in the roaring 1920s, with toe-tapping tunes, romance and zany bootleggers, the timeless music of George and Ira Gershwin includes hits like Someone to Watch Over Me, Let's Call The Whole Thing Off and the title number, Nice Work If You Can Get It.

Nice Work If You Can Get It is directed by Mark Taylor, with musical direction by David Clausen-Wisken and choreography by Susan Lewis.

The story tells of Jimmy Winter (Will Hanley) a wealthy playboy with a weakness for gin and chorus girls, who meets Billie Bendix (Lauren Holcombe), a tough bootlegging dame with a heart of gold.

When their worlds collide, chaos, romance and hilarity ensue. Complete with mistaken identities, speakeasy secrets and plenty of tap-dancing.

Performance Season: May 16-31 (Matinees at 2pm on May, 18, 25 and 31)

Venue: The National Theatre, St Kilda Bookings: www.cloc.org.au or 1300 362 547 - Cheryl Threadgold

DM for Deception

■ Illusions, magic or sleight of hand, what’s it to be? That could sum up Tristan McLindon’s performance, but there is a lot more to it with DM for Deception as part of the MICF.

Anything with magic always captivates an audience and this performance was no exception.

At the outset,Tristian was quick to explain that the show was one of connection between him and the audience and that he will put it to the test.

As a marketing guru and with a focus on the effects of social media that is dominant and challenging for all of us all today, he quipped that he bought a new top coat on the way to the show.

An at random nominated cost from the audience proved to be the same as the tag hanging inside the coat.

How minds can think alike and interact was demonstrated with much humour while putting the various couples at ease.

In asking who had an i-phone, it was packaged in an envelope and with five other phones all packaged and numbered 1 to 6. A dice was rolled and each package was slowly destroyed. On the last roll of the dice the i-phone was revealed - untouched. To the relief of the patron and the audience.

A sequence of card trickery, were they illusory or sleight of hand - we all speculated. There was no doubt about the explosive pack of cards.

The use of a toy monkey revealed an element of intrigue, in that it held the flag of the chosen country of a random audience member.

Much more showed us how skillful Tristan McLindon can entertain, involving the audience effortlessly, yet testing their minds, leaving all contemplating on just how did that happen?

- Review by Graeme

McCoubrie

Dr Strangelove

■ The National Theatre adaption of Stanley Kubrick’s Dr Strangelove for the stage is a curious undertaking.

Steve Coogan plays the roles made famous by Peter Sellers, adding to the repertoire the role of Major Kong but, in order to do this, there are theatrically contrived exits and entrances to allow him to appear in the same scene with his other selves.

This speaks to the challenge of moving from the genre of film to the reality of the stage.

What is also difficult to dispense with, having seen Kubrick’s film, are the original performances and characterisations which this filmed stage adaptation simply attempts to reproduce. The dialogue is terribly familiar and the clas-

sic lines such as, “You can’t fight here.This is the war room,” don’t come as a surprise. They are expected and this, somewhat, takes the sizzle out of the satire.

One might also add that the cold war culture has been surpassed by more recent global events that are worthy of the same biting satire if only someone could write something that would make sense of the absurdity of American politics.

Presumably, there will be the imposition of a tariff if this British production is seen in American cinemas.

Whilst this work is professionally staged, you have to wonder if watching the original film in all its black and what glory can actually be surpassed for its ingenious insight into a paranoia that overtook the world during the cold war.

The times have changed – the paranoia hasn’t.

The world is simply being blown up in a different way and General Ripper has been recast as a president.

In select Australian cinemas from April 24. Bookings and further information: sharmillfilms.com.au

- Review by David McLean

Train Cake

■ Plot by Heather Valentine and the support of Carl Whitside, Train Cake is set in the sexy world of the 1980's Australian Women's Weekly Children's Birthday Cake. How often has one wrestled with simple instructions of a children's birthday cake recipe only to end up with an embarrassing cake fail?

Opening night at the Meat Market Stables as part of the MICF was abuzz with eager wellwishers to see how Lucky played by Heather Valentine manages life from the day of her grandmother’s funeral.

On that day a package arrives with a jar labelled Steve, containing sourdough starter that her grandmother has bestowed to her, to care for.

And that is where the story really begins. Having retired from a career in baking and living peacefully to fulfill her obligation of caring, Steve is suddenly stolen by German babies in a swimming pool. Refusing to say where the jar is, Lucky then takes action to track Steve to an abandoned car park where she is confronted by a guard at a rocket ship and captured.

Escapes to face off with another enemy, a journalist with the Australian Woman’s Weekly who wants her to create a new version of the cookbook – bringing it up to date.

Steve is killed by the journalist, a battle ensues, Lucky makes up a train cake and yet there is still more drama.

Let’s say that there is a happy ending as Lucky finds another jar of sourdough starter.

In support of the various scenes of dialogue were well devised and complimentary projected graphics that added weight to the scenes of angst of Lucky. A difficult work to play keeping in sync with the projected graphics, all handled easily by Heather Valentine.

- Review by Graeme McCoubrie

■ The 2025 Melbourne International Comedy Festival is blessed with having a conjurer extraordinaire in Josh Staley, performing his one-man show at Brewmanity and Askal.

Josh’s showmanship, confidence and personable manner shines throughout his onehour performance.

He amazed with disappearing bottles, coins and cards sleight of hand, mind-reading and predictive tricks, including a pre-show post prediction on his Instagram.

Even when he explained how he did the tricks, he managed to flabbergast the audience by taking the trick to a new level of improbability.

Josh was particularly impressive with his rapport with the children in the audience. Audience participation is a big part of the show and Josh’s banter with everyone was superbly crafted. The audience felt included in each trick and the creative outcomes were astonishing.

The highlight of his show was the replication of the Harry Riser’s card trick. This absolutely blew our minds.

Instead of just doing trick after trick, Josh was able to create a clever cohesive story using each facet of his show, so that the finale linked many of the individual illusions together, leaving the audience spellbound and realising that we had witnessed a world-class artiste.

If you get a chance to see Josh Staley perform, you will not be disappointed.

Performance Details: April 17 - 20 at 7pm; Fri April 18.

Venue: Brewmanity, 50 Tope Street, South Melbourne Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au

- Review by Lyn Hurst

Stella Shortlist

■ For the first time in history, all writers on the 2025 Stella Prize shortlist are women of colour.

The six works chosen for the shortlist by the Stella judges are described as “conspicuous for their integrity, compassion and fearlessness”.

Miles Franklin winner Michelle de Kretser’s Theory and Practice, a meld of fiction and memory allowing for “formlessness and mess”, deliberates the joys and tragedies of existence.

Santilla Chingaipe’s Black Convicts traces the remarkable story of convicts of African descent on the First Fleet.

Chingaipe interrogates Australia’s dark past of absences, erasures, and our involvement in the transatlantic slave trade.

Samah Sabawi’s Cactus Pear for My Beloved is a sweeping family saga covering 100 years of history.

From British-ruled Palestine to Redland Bay, Queensland, the work is powerful for its optimism while focusing an unwavering lens on the intergenerational impact of displacement and genocide.

In Jumaana Abdu’s debut novel, Translations, Aliya and her young daughter Sakina move to a small town in rural New South Wales.

Abdu probes the conflicts between faith and community, trauma and loneliness, and what it means to establish a new life as a migrant on stolen land.

Melanie Cheng’s The Burrow is a psychological study of a family suffering unmentionable grief.

Set during the COVID lockdown, the arrival of a pet rabbit forces the family to face long-held secrets.

Journalist Amy McQuire’s Black Witness offers a powerful critique of casual racism in Australian mainstream media.

Highlighting significant recent events, such as the Palm Island rebellion and the Bowraville killings, McQuire exposes the privilege of ‘White Witness’, exposing the unfairness and bias operating against First Nations people in contemporary media.

Each of the shortlisted writers takes home $4000 and the chance for the ultimate prize of $60,000 to be announced on May 23. stella.org.au - Kathryn Keeble

● Will Hanley and cast.

Photo: Ben Fon

Local Theatre Observations

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

Entertainment

VALE KERRY GREENWOOD Shows

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

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

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

■ The Basin Theatre Company: Heisenberg: The Uncertainty Principle (by Simon Stephens) April 24 – May 4 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Michelle Swan. Tickets: thebasintheatre. au

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

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

■ Bairnsdale Production Line Theatre Company: Come From Away (by Irene Sankolff and David Hein) May 2 – 25 at the Forge Theatre and Arts Hub, Bairnsdale. Director: Peter Martignoles. Bookings: www.eastgippsland.vic.gov.au/leisure/whatson-and-buy-tickets

■ Theatre of the Winged Unicorn: The Jane Austen Experience (devised and directed by Elaine Mitchell) May 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17 at 7.30pm; May 4, 11, 18 at 2pm at the Ceres Temperance Hall, 40 McCann St., Ceres. Bookings: Trybooking.com/CYJIN Further details: theatreofthewingedunicorn.com.au

■ Wyndham Theatre Company: Drinking Habits (by Tom Smith) May 9 – 17 at Wyndham Theatre, Cnr. Duncans Rd. and Synott St., Werribee. Director: Cody Riker. Bookings: Trybooking

■ The Mount Players: The Girl on the Train (by Richard Wagstaff and Duncan Abel) May 9 – 25 at the Mountview Theatre, Smith St., Mt. Macedon. Director: Frank Harvey. Bookings: the mountplayers.com

■ Wyndham Theatre Company: Drinking Habits (a comedy by Tom Smith) May 9, 10, 16, 17 at 8pm; May 10, 17 at 2pm at Crossroad Theatrec, Corner of Duncans Rd and Synnot St, Werribe. Director: Cody Riker. Bookings: Trybooking.

■ Peridot Theatre Company: Proof (by David Auburn) May 16 – 25 at the Clayton Theatrette, Clayton Community Centre, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: Damian Jones. Bookings: peridot.com.au

■ CLOC Musical Theatre: Nice Work if You Can Get It. May 16 – 31 at the National Theatre, St Kilda. Director: Mark Taylor; Musical Director: David Clausen-Wisken ; Choreographer: Susan Lewis; Ass’t. Choreographer: James Rooney. Bookings: cloc.org.au or phone1300 362 547.

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: The Children (by Lucy Kirkwood) May 22 – 31 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Director: Peter Newling. Bookings: www.kingstonarts.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

■ Sisters in Crime is mourning the death in Melbourne of Kerry Greenwood, founding member and beloved friend and author, at the age of 70.

Kerry died on March 26. Her funeral was held last week in Yarraville with a wake in nearby Seddon.

Her coffin was draped with native flowers and a Bulldogs scarf. Kerry was not a huge fan of football per se but loved the local western suburbs’ football team.

Kerry’s life partner, ‘registered wizard’ David Greagg, announced last week that he had kept Kerry’s death a secret, save for close friends and family.

“Kerry was an extremely private person and had no wish to share her pain with anyone. I told everyone after the wake that they could now post anything they liked, and they have done so,” he wrote on Kerry’s Facebook page.

“So I will stay silent no longer. Yes, she has gone. But she lives on in her books, and in our hearts,”

Hundreds and hundreds of tributes have poured in since then.

Sisters in Crime National Co-Convenor Carmel Shute said: "Kerry became a founding member of Sisters in Crime when we launched the organisation at the Melbourne Feminist Book Fortnight on September 22, 1991. She starred in a debate entitled Feminist Crime Fiction: Confronting the Hard-boiled Head On."

"At that point, there were hardly any Australian women crime writers and Kerry was a tow-

Auditions

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

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

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

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Broadway Bound (by Neil Simon) May 10 at 1pm and May 9 at 7pm at Unit 8 / 417-419 Warrigal Rd, Cheltenham. Director: Michelle Swann. Audition Enquiries: mordialloctheatre.com. au/auditions-broadway-bound/

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

■ Melbourne French Theatre: Il était un petit navire – (SOS) Save Our Savings (by Jean-Pierre Martinez) May 10 at 2.30pm, May 13 at 7pm at La Maison de Maitre, 203205 Canning Street, Carlton. Director: tba. Audition enquiries: productions@mftinc.org

■ Peridot Theatre: Frankenstein (by Nick Dear) May 18 at 10am, May 26 at 7pm at 39 Highland Avenue, Oakleigh East (corner Highland and Turnbull Avenues). Director: George Benca. Audition enquiries: georgebenca@gmail.com

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

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

● ● ● ● Kerry Greenwood and Sisters in Crime's Vice-President Lindy Cameron at the 2013 Davitt Awards.

ering figure in the women’s crime world because she already had three Phryne Fisher novels under her belt.

"Since then, her prodigious output has included over 60 novels plus plays and non-fiction works, including 23 Miss Fisher novels and seven in her delicious Corinna Chapman baker sleuth series. Much of this was accomplished whilst working as a legal aid barrister."

In 2013, Kerry became the inaugural winner of Sisters in Crime’s Lifetime Achievement Award and remains the one accorded such an honour. She also won the Ned Kelly Award for Crime Writing, Lifetime Contribution in 2003. Kerry was awarded an OAM in 2020.

Carmel Shute explained that Kerry gained even more fans – and fans from all over the world – when Every Cloud Productions produced three series of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries during 2012-2015 and then, in 2020, a movie, Miss Fisher and the Crypt of Tears, all starring Essie Davis.

"Sisters in Crime booked out a 98-seat theatre at Yarraville’s Sun Theatre for a special screening of the film. The event sold out and no wonder. Fans came from far and wide – from Adelaide to Portland and South Carolina in the USA

.

“Many ‘frocked up for Phryne’, appearing in wonderful twenties outfits. We were joined by several members of the Adventuresses’ Club of the Americas, the fan organisation that runs the Miss Fisher Conventions."

- Cheryl Threadgold and Julie Houghton

Roses to Poison

■ Melbourne French Theatre presents a rehearsed and costumed reading of From Roses to Poison/Après les Roses, le Poison, from April 30 to May 3 at La Maison de Maitre Building, 203-205 Canning St, Carlton

Written by Marijke Eysbertse-van Schaik, directed by Donald McManus and produced by Michael (Michel) Bula, the story tells of the French Emperor Napoleon I having been defeated at the battle of Waterloo in 1815 and his exile to St Helena - an island in the south of the Atlantic Ocean.

William Balcombe, Superintendent of the East India Company of the island, agrees to the Emperor's request for a temporary stay at his home, The Briars.

Elder daughter Jane soon starts giving Napoleon English lessons. After initial misgivings, her uninhibited younger sister, Betsy, falls for the charms of the suave imperial visitor and his French entourage.

Everything takes a turn for the worse with the arrival on St Helena of Sir Hudson Lowe, the New Governor.

The Emperor receives orders to depart immediately for Longwood , where he is to be guarded around the clock by 3000 British soldiers.

There, the suspicious deaths, escape plans and dangerous liaisons remain shrouded in mystery to this day.

Audiences will relive the last period of Napoleon's life in exile on St Helena and the fascinating Australian link where the Balcombes established the Briars in Mt Martha.

Presented in French with English surtitles.

Performance Season: April 30 - May 3

Venue: La Maison de Maitre Building, 203205 Canning St, Carlton (Cnr Neill St)

Bookings: melbournefrenchtheatre.org.au - Cheryl Threadgold

King of Kings

● Uma Thurman

■

King of Kings is an intriguing new take on the 2000-year-old story of Jesus Christ, from birth to death to resurrection.

And it’s written by….Charles Dickens Yes, THAT Charles Dickens who wrote A Christmas Carol, David Copperfield, Oliver Twist and many other novels that have stood the test of time.

King of Kings is based on Charles Dickens’ version of the story of Christ that he wrote for his own family, and the film stars Dickens as the narrator and his young son Walter living the story as Dickens tells it.

Young Walter is obsessed with the story of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, so his father Charles decides to tell him the much older and bigger story of a greater king, Jesus of Nazareth. So we see Walter as an active participant witnessing historical events, along with his faithful cat companion, Willa.

The film is completely animated, with many world-famous actors voicing the characters. Kenneth Branagh voices Charles Dickens , with Oscar Isaac as Jesus, Uma Thurman as Charles’s wise wife Catherine, Mark Hamil as the evil Herod, Pierce Brosnan as Pontius Pilate, Ben Kingsley as high priest Caiaphas, and young actor Roman Griffin Davis as Walter.

The film is obviously aimed at the family market in the Easter school holidays, and has a lot of charm, especially when dealing with the Dickens family.

The story does become overtly religious as it progresses, but it’s an innovative take on an old story, with moments of contemporary humour that certainly work.

Very young children may find it too scary, but the over sevens and their parents should enjoy it as long as they realize this is a Christian film, not a secular one, but it is entertaining and the voice work is superb.

- Julie Houghton

Gallipoli Soup

■ Gallipoli Soup by Tim Knight, published by New Holland Publishers, has a new take on the famous li campaign of World War I

This 592-page paperback offers a fresh perspective on one of history’s most pivotal conflicts, telling the story through the eyes of several participants from all sides of the war: Australians, Turks, English, and Germans

The diverse cast includes infantry privates, army and navy officers, a press correspondent, an ambassador, a politician, and even a spy.

Gallipoli Soup is history written to read like a novel, offering readers an immersive, humanised experience of the horrors of battle while also delving into the complex reasons behind the campaign’s initiation and the way it unfolded through to the final evacuation.

The book also includes five full-page maps to help readers understand the geography of the Gallipoli Peninsula.

Tim Knight is an engineer with a personal connection to the conflict - his wife’s grandfather fought for Turkey, and his great-grandfather served in the Australian Imperial

CATO THE WISE

Maxwell Newton

★Producer John Frost an nounced the first three cast members for the 40th Anniversary Australian tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical Cats, playing at Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne from December. Todd McKenney will play the dual roles of Bustopher Jones and Gus the Theatre Cat. Mark Vincent will be Old Deuteronomy, the wise and beloved patriarch of the Jellicle tribe. Leigh Archer will play the kind, motherly character Jennyanydots.

★ Lady Gaga has announced the Australian leg of ‘ The Mayhem Ball’ tour, which is coming to Marvel Stadium on Friday December 5.

★Artworks from a journey through Iceland by established Melbourne artist Sarah Faulkner, 65, and her 25-year-old artist son Jordan O’Connor, will be exhibited at Four Eight Four Gallery, Station St, North Carlton, from May 22-31.

★One of Melbourne's live music venues, The Night Cat, is calling on the community to help safeguard its future. The Fitzroy venue has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise over $60,000 for essential upgrades

★The Country Fire Authority celebrated its 80th anniversary this month.

★The Jewish Museum of Australia is holding a Silent Auction Fundraiser offering the sale of donated photographs by Mark Raphael Baker.

★The cast of Annie at the Princess Theatre from July 10 will include including Anthony Warlow, Debora Krizak Mackenzie Dunn, Keanu Gonzalez, Amanda Lea LaVergne and Greg Page as President Franklin D. Roosevelt

★Charles Sturt University has launched a new Melbourne Campus in Chinatown

★RACV Inverloch Resort has opened the exhibition Narelle Autio: Selected Watercolours, on display until June 8.

★Melbourne Design Week returns from May 15-25 offering a vital platform for creatives to showcase boundary-pushing work.

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

★Classic, Lido and Cameo Cinemas are celebrating the centenary of the birth of maverick American director Robert Altman with an 18-film retrospective of his work, running from May to September

★According to the second edition of eBay’s State of Collectables 2025 Report, the total value of Australians’ collectables has soared to an estimated $16.8 billion: more than two and a half times the value of the National Gallery of Australia’s collection.

★Screen Producers Austra lia have announced the business category finalists for the 23rd Annual Awards. Media Super Production Business of the Year: BBC Studios Productions Australia, Curio Pictures, Easy Tiger Productions, Jungle Entertainment, Lingo Pictures, Ludo Productions, Matchbox Pictures, Northern Pictures.

★Breakthrough Business of the Year: Inclusively Made, Kindling Pictures, Orange Entertainment Co.

★Screen Business Export Award: High Country - Curio Pictures, Good Cop/Bad CopJungle Entertainment, Bluey - Ludo Productions, House of GodsMatchbox Pictures.

★Services and Facilities Business of the Year: All Her Fault - BCD Media & Entertainment, How To Make Gravy - TAG.

★SKIP Foundation Founder Kim Jackson’s passion for supporting young women from regional areas to pursue a career in STEM led her to establish a Scholarship in her own name. The scholarship amount has been increased to $25,000 annually for existing and future scholars.

★Sarah McLeod has been announced as Chair of Australian Women in Music

★A Minecraft Movie broke box office records for the best opening weekend for any video game movie - taking in over $301 million for its global opening weekend. Filmed in New Zealand, the movie is set to inspire over $50 million in in-bound tourism to the country

★The Fred Hollows Foundation has launched The Fred and Humanity Awards

Here If You Need

■ Mick Neven presents his 12th solo show Here If You Need as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival until April 20 at 8pm at The Charles Dickens Tavern, 290 Collins St, Melbourne.

Last year Mick's daughter turned 16 and introduced him to her first boyfriend. What a fun time for any Dad. Also last year … once again in Australia, two women a week were murdered by men, mostly current and former ‘romantic’ partners.

There’s nothing funny about gendered violence, so how can anyone write a stand up comedy show about it?

Mick says: “Sometimes there’s comedy in the things that make us angry. If two people a week were being killed by sharks, we’d have a National Shark Emergency Action Plan within two months. Two women a week get killed by men, that’s business as usual.”

Mick Neven likes to tackle tough topics in his solo shows. Some of his previous solo shows have been about Dementia, The War On Drugs, Bullying, Climate Change and more. None of those topics are objectively funny, but Mick aims to craft his show with punch, humour and a heart.

Now Mick is the father of a 16year-old girl who plays footy, he has to navigate things like online pornography, plastic surgery and botox, the gender pay gap and how to spot potential grubs on the apps. All of these things add up, and when the twist comes in the show…well there’s nothing funny about that. It’s an awkward moment…and deliberately so.

Mick is a former journalist who saw the first work in progress on the Sunshine Coast called it “an electric response to some of the most taboo issues of today”. After a performance at Fringe World Perth, a woman in the audience gave Mick a hug to say thank you. So Mick knows there’s definitely something in there that works.

Mick Neven has been performing stand-up comedy for 21 years and comedy has taken him all over the world.

He's gigged all over the UK and Asia, toured Canada, performed in New York and been on three tours for Forces Entertainment, performing for Aussie troops serving overseas.

Where: The Charles Dickens Tavern, 290 CollinsSt, Melbourne

When: 8pm Monday to Saturday, 7pm Sunday…every night until April 20

Tickets: comedyfestival.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

Something In The Dirt

■ (M). 116 minutes. Now available on DVD.

Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead continue their winning ways, once again combining sci-fi and drama (on a micro budget) to intriguing effect.

Moorhead and Benson star (as they did in The Endless) as John and Levi, both tenants in a low-rent, run-down apartment building in LA.

John has been living there for 10 years, while Levi has just moved in upstairs, and the pair seem to hit it off immediately.

While helping Levi move in, John notices weird mathematical equations written on the frame around the closet door, but when a heavy quartz ashtray starts to levitate and throw particular patterns of light against the walls, John and Levi believe the apartment holds far bigger secrets.

As the two start to document and research what is going on, the possibilities of what may be causing this event spirals in every direction, and will not only affect their opinions and feelings for each other, but of reality itself.

Benson and Moorhead (who along with directing and starring, also write, produce, and edit) have been building a superior body of work since they appeared on the scene in 2012 with their no budget wonder, Resolution, following that up with Spring (2014), The Endless (2017) and Synchronic (2019), and the pair have superbly connected most of these within the one universe. With Something In The Dirt, the talented film-makers very cleverly use a sci-fi framework to explore the current epidemic of conspiracy theories and misinformation, and how easily people can fall down the rabbit hole, and in some ways is reminiscent of David Robert Mitchell’s unfairly dismissed (but very David Lynch inspired) surreal 2018 thriller Under The Silver Lake. Benson and Moorhead, like in The Endless, offer solid performances, making their characters’ journey feel convincing, and deliver the humorous elements with conviction. The effects are well-executed and perfectly timed. Something In The Dirt will definitely frustrate some viewers, as it remains low-key and deliberately paced, relying on cerebral verbal exchanges rather than big, fx-laden set-pieces.

If you enjoy this, I highly recommend searching out Moorhead and Benson’s earlier efforts. Like Project Wolf Hunting (also available on DVD), this is another cult winner from Umbrella Entertainment.

RATING - ****

The Sisters Brothers

■ (MA). 122 minutes. Now available on DVD.

Renowned French film-maker Jacques Audiard (A Prophet, Rust And Bone, and most recently, the Oscar winning Emilie Perez) made his english language debut with The Sisters Brothers , a smart deconstruction of the traditional western, which sees its title characters in an increasingly unique light.

Using the Gold Rush as its backdrop, we are introduced to bounty hunter brothers Eli (John C. Reilly) and Charlie (Joaquin Phoenix) , whose ruthless reputation precedes them, as they carry out their tasks with no questions asked.

Their powerful boss, known as The Commodore (a barely glimpsed Rutger Hauer), enlists the duo to hunt down Kemit Warm (Riz Ahmed), who has apparently stolen from him, but will not go into specifics.

Also on the case is Morris (Jake Gyllenhaal), who is already closely watching Warm, but circumstances change when all three pursuers find out what Warm has in his possession, leading to numerous unforeseen complications.

Based on the 2011 novel by Patrick deWitt, co-writer/director Audiard lovingly plays with the western’s form, stripping the genre of its mythology and carved-instone righteousness, while instilling the material with striking humanity and heart (its finale is particularly moving).

Performances are outstanding, with Reilly and Phoenix sharing wonderful chemistry together, while Ahmed gets one of his best roles to date.

Beautifully crafted, The Sisters Brothers is a film to seek out and savour, providing strong entertainment for adult audiences.

RATING - **** - Aaron Rourke

In Memory of

Aaron Rourke

● ● ● ●

Mick Neven

■ Trisha Noble was a beautiful Australian singer and actress. Trisha worked overseas with great success.

We originally knew her as the teenage singing sensation Patsy Ann Noble on the television series Bandstand.

In later years she changed her name to Trisha Noble.

Patricia ‘Trisha’ Ann Ruth Noble was born in Marrickville, NSW, in 1944 and her parents were showbusiness legends in Australia during the 1930s and 1940s.

Her father ‘Buster’ Noble was a comedian and singer and her mother Helen de Paul was a popular performer on the Tivoli circuit.

Buster and Helen toured in Tivoli shows such as Stars And Garters, Atomic Blondes, Sit Back And Laugh and Let's Make It A Party

Helen worked as a choreographer and dance teacher.

In 1950 the theatrical couple had another daughter, Amanda.

Patricia began performing at the age of six and sang in radio shows and stage productions. She became a qualified ballet teacher in her teenage years.

Patricia was spotted singing on a Sydney television show and signed as a regular performer on Brian Henderson's Bandstand where she sang under the name of Patsy Ann Noble

In 1961 she had her biggest selling single when she released Good Looking Boy which

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

was written by Johnny Devlin. The song reached No 10 on the hit parade in Melbourne and Patsy won a TV Week Logie award for Best Female Singer.

When she moved to England to further her career in 1962 Patsy worked in stage shows and television.

She was cast as a guest singer in the musical film Live It Up and shared the bill with the American rock and roll singer Gene Vincent.

Patsy was signed to a recording contract with Columbia Records. She appeared in shows with the big stars such as Liberace, Frankie Howerd, The Beatles, Cliff Richard, Tommy Cooper and recorded a duet with Benny Hill In 1967 Patsy married her first husband Alan

Sharpe. She changed her stage name to Trisha Noble and moved to the US in 1972 to star in a Las Vegas show at The Sands Hotel but after the six-month engagement decided to give singing away and concentrate on acting.

Trisha Noble guest-starred in many of the popular television series such as Columbo, The Love Boat, Baretta, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, McMillan And Wife, The Rockford Files and Fantasy Island

In 1976 she married for a second time and

WIDE RANGE OF CERAMICS AT GEELONG GALLERY Whatever Happened To ... Trisha Noble

The Beth Brown and Tom Bruce AM Gift comprises a wide range of ceramics that highlight the history, breadth, and expansive possibilities of modern and contemporary studio pottery.

Thoughtfully and skilfully acquired by Beth and Tom over many decades, the gift comprises over 140 works by 20 Australian and international potters and ceramic artists.

The collection includes works by many Australia’s most important practitioners including Stephen Benwell, Gwyn Hanssen Pigott, Davod Ray, Hiroe Swen and Prue Venables.

Exhibition closes Saturday November 30.

Geelong Gallery

Little Malop St, Geelong

Abbotsford

Platform:

An exhibition showcasing Platform - a First Nations-led creative development program for multi-generational choreographers and contemporary dance artists.

The creative process was documented by Jody Haines through photography and interviews, representing the artists’ reflections and creative evolution.

The resulting visual documentary is an insight into the journey o these choreographers and dancers.

Exhibition opens Thursday May 8 and closes Sunday May 18 from 9am – 9pm.

Abbotsford Convent Gallery

1 St Heliers St, Abbotsford

Collingwood

Moon Accordion – Martin George

“These paintings remind me of emblems. Each distinct but similar dream-like place where there are leaves, coat hangers, birds, fish, instruments, moons, rowboats, rocks and more.

“My idea began through drawing, and when I draw the same shape enough it starts to take its own character, it becomes animated, I’m compelled to make a painting when a drawing has surprised me – and it feels right to turn into a painting.

“I spend a lot of time wiping paint off the canvas with water, just as

had her son Patrick. She starred opposite Don Knotts and Tim Conway in the comedy film Private Detectives

In 1981 Trisha played one of the lead characters in the television series Strike Force and co-starred with Robert Stack

She returned to Australia in 1983 when Buster became ill and was able to be with her father up to his passing in 1990.

Tricia married her third husband Peter Field but the marriage ended in divorce.

Tricia resumed her career and was cast in the film Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge Of The Sith which was filmed in Sydney. Her stage musicals have included Shout, Dr Zhivago and Pippin

Her mother Helen de Paul (who choreographed the Happy Little Vegemite TV commercials) passed away in 2007.

Sadly, Trisha Noble passed away in 2021 at the age of 76. Trisha was one of our great Australian performers and we should all be proud of her achievements during an outstanding career. Trisha was quoted as saying , “I was raised by a show business family as an all-round performer, not just a pop singer,”

I met and interviewed Trisha Noble several times – she was a lovely lady.

The Arts

much time as putting paint on. Ian trying to simplify almost chisel out the image I’m working on.

“With each painting there’s moments of chance that you could never plan. That’s the inventive part and why I love doing it.

“I think my favourite artists I could describe them as inventors, they introduce you to their world, to something that is personal and totally their own.”

Exhibition closes May 3.

Nicholas Thompson Gallery 135 Langridge St, Collingwood

Bendigo

In Her Own Image – Frida Kahlo presents an intimate view of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.

This exclusive exhibition features Kahlo’s personal belongings, clothing, make-up accessories and medical items, on loan from the Museo Freda Kahlo Mexico for the first time in Australia.

Sealed in a bathroom for over 50 years after Kahlo’s death, her cherished family home, La Casa Azul, this precious collection’s rediscovery sheds new light on Kahlo’s carefully crafted appearance.

In her vibrant clothing, dramatic use of make-up and adornment, and richly decorated medical prostheses, Kahlo constructed a captivating pub-

lic image which addressed geopolitical issues of her time, cultural and social identity, and her own body.

Following childhood polio and a near fatal accident, at the age of 18, Kahlo’s disabilities were fundamental to her self-fashioning in life on the canvas.

The exhibition also examines Kahlo’s ascent to become one of the most heavily mythologised and revered cult figures of our time, and her profound legacy in art and society.

Exhibition closes July 13.

Bendigo Art Gallery

42 View St, Bendigo - Peter Kemp

Jackson

Aces at Palms

■ Jackson Aces is the master in the art of magic and illusion and this year for the first time will perform in Melbourne at The Palms at Crown on Saturday, July 26.

Jackson Aces shows are guaranteed to intrigue, inform, surprise and astound audiences with his mix of dark arts, illusion and cheeky humour.

The most sceptical of guests have been enthralled by this master of magic…

With a father (Pat Jarvis) who represented NSW and Australia in Rugby League, one would expect Jackson Aces to pursue a life of sport, but destiny had a different path in store for him.

At the age of twelve, Jackson found his calling when his mother bought him a magic deck of cards for his birthday.

Having spent countless hours as a child playing cards with his mother by her hospital bedside, Jackson had always found comfort in the feel, sound and scent of a deck of cards.

Jackson spent his teenage years relentlessly practising, perfecting his art, sometimes for more than 10 hours a day. Before graduating high school Jackson had mastered techniques in card magic that few magicians anywhere in the world could perform, as well as a new art form called Cardistry (Card Artistry).

Veiled message from actor

■ It can only be described as a veiled message that appeared on social media. The short message was lodged by' Home Alone' star Macaulay Culkin, who addressed his vent to producers of videos starring young stars. Message ended with cautionary wish 'Take it easy on the kiddos'.

Funny, generous and kind

■ Wife Nancy described her husband of 45 years, Johnny Tillotsen, as funny, generous and kind. Johnny was a big billing artist on the country and western scene of the 60s with 'Poetry in Motion' which peaked at No 2 in the Billboard Hot 100 in 1960. He achieved numerous Grammy nominations. Johnny died at 86 years.

Calling Simpsons fans

■ Bart, Millhouse, Liza and the whole gang of the Simpsons animated series will be dancing in the streets now that Fox has confirmed Simpsons has been extended for a further four seasons. The Simpsons is already the longest-running animated series, produced by 20th Television Animation, part of Walt Disney Studios.

Word on the Street

■ Fans of Bruce Springsteen will be over the moon at the news 'The Boss' could release up to seven new albums of previously unpublished music in the immediate six months.

Justin, fashion designer

■ Rumours in fashion circles are that Justin

with Peter Kemp

● ● Trisha Noble

Kevin can be heard on 3AW - The Time Tunnel - Remember When - Sundays at 10.10pm with Simon Owens and Andrew McLaren. And on 96.5 FM. That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon. www.innerfm.org.au

● ● Macaulay Culkin

Today’s Menu

Charcuterie Boards:

Tapas Bar Home-Made Desserts

Plus A Variety of Weekly Specials

Great Range of Cocktails and Mocktails Available.

Teas and Coffees

Don’t forget our Famous Devonshire Tea We strive for excellence, we do not rest until our best is better

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Across Observer

1. Blizzard

Lovatts Crossword No 18

Across Down Down

168. Guitar sound

6. Wattle tree

11. Villain

15. Dried grass piles

20. Exclamation of pain

21. Genuine thing, the real ...

22. Numerous

23. Underground molten rock

25. Relaxation art (1'2,3)

26. Coral organisms

27. Dinners or lunches

29. Venice canal boat

32. Singer, ... Diamond

34. Famous British school

36. Type of spanner

39. Condemns to hell

41. Harnessed (oxen)

43. Rubs with emery

46. ... of Troy

48. Beneath

49. Dad

51. Hooter

52. Co-venture

55. Coarse file

56. Acorn bearers

59. Kills

61. Sit for portrait

62. Once again

63. Screw

64. Ripens

67. Halfway through pregnancy

68. Fortified wine

70. Culmination

71. Actress, ... Loren

72. Nag

73. Naked

74. Renovate (ship)

75. Rose-shaped award

77. Stop! (nautical)

78. Survives

79. Style

82. Mob

86. Jelly/sponge dessert

87. Eye lustfully

89. Belief in the supernatural

92. Pond plant

94. Capture

96. News

98. Floating log platform

100. Live coal

101. Computer input

103. Princess Royal

105. Resided

106. Press

108. Burn

111. Commoner

112. Very lazy (4,4)

114. Amaze

116. Spy, ... Hari

119. Bullets

120. German WWII fascist

121. Anticipated touchdown (1,1,1)

123. Freezes, ... over

124. As far as (2,2)

125. Omits (6,3)

126. New York borough

127. Blackberry shrub

130. The masses, ... polloi

131. Dawn to dusk

135. Alternate, every ...

138. Calf-length skirt

139. US astronaut, ... Shepard

141. Acute remorse

144. Unchanged, the ...

146. Cheerio!

147. Unfasten

148. Male swan

149. Young sheep

150. Uncle Sam (1,1,1)

151. Type of saxophone

152. Print with raised design

153. Taj Mahal city

155. Closing

157. Part of eye

158. Method

160. Braid

161. More ancient

162. Up to the time of

163. Overly cute

165. Less frequent

166. Snake, ... constrictor

169. Servant 171. Accessory 172. Female title

175. In vain, to no ... 176. Light sleeps 179. Arid US state 180. Schoolgirl

182. Prison

184. Opens door to (4,2) 185. Balmy

186. Crooner, ... King Cole 188. Quiet 189. Pod vegetable 190. Dull 191. Snow-runner 193. Betting chances 194. Jogs

196. Match before final 197. Unreliable

198. Revolving tray, lazy ... 200. Modesty

205. AFL great, ... Barassi

207. Angrily

210. Impetuous

211. Concealing

212. Stupefy

213. Trading centre

214. Banned pesticide (1,1,1)

216. Irish sweater style

218. Actual 219. Ellipse

220. Repaints (vehicle)

224. Moodier

227. Depend

229. Space flight organisation

230. Tethers

231. Latin American dance

232. Nipple

233. Aware of 235. Prophetic signs

237. Go up

239. Printing error

241. Type of orange

244. Child's toy (2-2)

246. Pet's neck band (3,6)

249. Please reply (1,1,1,1)

252. Stingier

254. Former English cricket captain, ... Hussain

256. Outrageous

258. Arrange

259. Fuss, song & ...

260. Introducing in stages, ... in

263. Rest on knees

264. Outcome

265. Rot (of leather)

267. Paltry

270. Niece & ...

271. Avoided

272. Entertainer

273. Additional items

274. Welsh vegetables

277. Witnessed

279. Carpenter's spike

281. More rational

284. Hurry

286. Sum owed

288. Absorbed

292. Whisky ingredient

294. Kiss & cuddle

295. Fire remains

298. Smallest

300. Nominated

301. Mention, ... to 303. Monastery superior

306. Decorative shrub pot

308. Encounter

309. Concludes

311. Pink-eyed rabbits

314. Last Greek letter

315. Ketchup, ... sauce

316. Powerful

317. Fruit mash

318. After that

319. Deserve

320. Mafia, ... Nostra

321. Treats with drugs

322. Rewrite on keyboard

323. Unhappier

324. Muscle toning therapists

1. Cosy

2. Furnace

3. Polynesian island group

4. Heart or lung

5. Complain

6. Movement

7. Blackboard marker

8. Drumming insects

9. Amongst

10. Fuel energy rating

11. Go around

12. Playful water mammal

13. Propel

14. Christian festival

15. Sacred song

16. Long (for)

17. Try out (food)

18. Cudgel

19. Obscene material

24. Charity offerings

28. Youths

30. Milky gem

31. June 6, 1944 (1-3)

33. Eagle nests

35. Equal (2,1,3)

37. Raven

38. Deer

40. Yelling

42. Geological division

44. Positive electrodes

45. Least moist

47. Fencing blades

48. Great disturbance

49. Prepared mentally, ... up

50. Sports ground buildings

53. Wed again

54. Impedes

57. Rescued by plane

58. Examines closely

60. Brighter

63. Temper fit

65. Hatchets

66. Settee

68. Cry weakly

69. Corrode

76. Outstanding

79. Fellows

80. Not anybody (2-3)

81. Lodge firmly

83. Boundary

84. Media tycoon, press ...

85. Pixie

88. Disadvantage

90. Team

91. Tiny amount

93. Skin irritation

95. Paradise garden

97. Flourish of trumpets

99. Friends star, Jennifer ...

100. Periods

102. Degrade

104. Kinder

107. From Italy's capital

109. Rectify

110. Arabian prince

111. Ode

113. Glancing

115. Summer footwear

117. Cousin's mother

118. Nuclear explosive, ... bomb

121. Morally sound

122. Friendly

127. Chest

128. Gave weapons to

129. Childbirth contractions (6,5)

132. In unison (3,8)

133. Relative by marriage (2-3)

134. Call up (feelings)

135. Vigilant

136. Magician's cry (3,6)

137. Idealists

138. Rissoles

140. Of course

141. Document summaries

143. Tent cover 145. Corrected (text)

151. Former IOC president, Juan .. Samaranch

154. Wanders

156. Fragrance

159. Reproductive cells

164. Sixth sense (1,1,1)

169. Imitative performer

170. Wood surface design

173. Hoped (to)

174. Versus 177. South American mountains

178. Effeminate

181. Facility

183. Commissioned soldier

187. Random

192. Hopping marsupials

195. Office workers

199. Usefulness

201. Chooses

202. Weather feature, El ...

203. Milan opera house, La ...

204. Bright signal light

206. Seductress, ... fatale

207. Map

208. Nimble

209. Executive jet

213. Car race city, Le ...

215. Small plums

217. Advertising sign

221. Jetties

222. Incidental comment

223. Complacent

224. Soccer net

225. Policy reversal (1-4)

226. Courtyard

228. Ambassadors' residences

234. Loud-hailer

236. Hypodermic syringes

238. Charged particle

240. Enquire intrusively

242. Showy flowers

243. Poetic name for Ireland, ... Isle

245. Apple groves

247. Parentless kids

248. Boost

250. Blood feud

251. Mesh

253. Rodents

255. Copied

257. Former Italian money unit

258. Fix

261. Respiratory ailment

262. Shoe lining

265. Rounded stone

266. Brainwaves

268. Put up with

269. The Queen's third son

275. Sitcom, My Name Is ...

276. Ruler, Genghis ...

278. Tidal river mouth

280. Carbonated

282. Opposed to

283. Resound

285. Throat-clearing noise

287. Wobble

289. Wage

290. Polluted

291. Assumes (attitude)

292. Guru

293. Ready, willing & ...

296. Impassive person

297. Upright

299. Make reparation

302. Wooden barrier

304. Farm sheds

305. Overly fat

306. Prudish

307. Elderly

308. Rugs

310. Luncheon meat

312. Bobs head

142. Blameless

313. Timber cutters

167. Rowing aid

By Rob Foenander

Mamma Mia

■ The iconic songs of Abba will be brought to life in the upcoming Windmill Theatre production of Mamma Mia Bunjil Place Theatre, Narre Warren ,will play host to the popular show that’s been seen and loved by more than 60 million people around the world.

June 7-21. More info at www.windmill theatre.com.au

The Whitlams

■ Aussie super group The Whitlams will join forces with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra on September 6 at Hamer Hall. Classic compositions including ‘No Aphrodisiac’ and ‘Blow Up the Pokies’ will be joined by highlights of The Whitlams' 2020s resurgence with a song from each of the two recent albums, ‘Sancho’ (2022) and the Americana influenced ‘Kookaburra’ (2024), says their media release.

Tickets at the Arts Centre

Easy Rider Blues

■ A celebration of Melbourne roots music will hit the Memo Music Hall stage on June 8.

Australia’s roots music king Andy Baylor hosts a show featuring his Cajun Combo plus guests. On offer is an easy ride through the various styles of music that Andy has championed over the last 40 or so years that has helped make Melbourne the “Roots Music Capital of the World”.

Tickets at the Memo. - Rob Foenander

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

‘End Game’ at MC Showroom

■ Katie Reddin-Clancy (UK) presents her new theatre show End Game until April 20 in the MC Showroom.

Presenting the big questions most of us are afraid to answer End Game is part The Secret, part Warrior of Light, part Eat, Pray, Love, exploring one woman’s journey at Earth School as she searches for her Soul's purpose.

Darkly comedic, there are sliding door moments wrapped around a character-driven dramedy with original storytelling and bold cabaret moments.

Directed by Abigail Graham (The Globe, The Lyric, The Bush), End Game tells the story of Joanie, an eccentric cabaret performer, who finds herself in The Afterlife, guided by her spirit guide Pam through a soul review.

As she reflects on her life, she confronts the lessons of Earth School - only to discover it's not all about her.

The story delves into the profound realisation that life is about the impact we have on others.

For Joanie, that means her impact on Eva. But who’s Eva? This is a solo show about spiritual awakening, purpose and love. But audience beware - you might just be about to have your mind opened.

Award-winning Katie ReddinClancy is based in Brighton (UK) and is a multi-disciplinary artist who is particularly interested in work that awakens, inspires and brings joy

Crossword Solution No 18

through storytelling from the female, outsiders’ perspective.

Written, performed and produced by Katie, this is a show for anyone who has asked “what am I doing here?” and understood that The Universe we exist in is so much bigger than our brains can compute.

End Game is for those interested in exploring what happens in The Spirit World, The GreatAwakening and parallel worlds.

Performance Season: Until April 20

Venue: MC Showroom, Level 1, 50 Clifton St., Prahran Bookings: comedyfestival.com.

au

Rating: M15+ (Warning: Includes Suicide, alcohol, drugs, swearing.)

Duration: 60 mins. - Cheryl Threadgold

Flashes

■ Charles Powell has started as Supervising Producer (Digital Video / Social) for SBS News. He joins after nine years at Nine ■ Peter Bodkin has been promoted to Senior News Director at the Australian Associated Press ■ Australian Book Review has named Georgina Arnott as its new Editor and CEO. She succeeds Peter Rose, who is stepping down after 24 years in the role. - TelumAustralia

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Sport

VOBIS SILVER NOMINATIONS CLOSING SOON

■ VOBIS Silver is the first step in the VOBIS program offering more than $13 million in bonuses each season. Nominations to VOBIS Silver for 2023 yearlings close on Friday, May 30.

VOBIS Silver is the gateway to even greater riches, with horses nominated to VOBIS Silver eligible to upgrade, with a grand total of $21 million on offer to horses upgraded to the VOBIS Gold program, and $30 million (including vouchers) up for grabs for horses eligible to be upgraded to VOBIS Platinum.

The benefits of the three tiers of the VOBIS program were in evidence during a thrilling renewal of the Victorian Owners and Breeders Raceday, which saw the connections of McGaw turn a cheque for $14,000 into a $571,000 payday.

The VOBIS Silver bonuses, which can be won by the horse’s nominator, owner, trainer and jockey, are offered across all two-year-old and three-year-old races, as well as all maidens run over 2000m and further, at every TAB meeting conducted in Victoria

Nominate in one of two ways:

■ Online via myhorseracing (Racing Australia); or

■ By completing the VOBIS Silver nomination form and emailing it to vobis@racingvictoria.net.au

Eligibility for the VOBIS Silver program is based on one of the following criteria:

■ Victorian Sired (Category A), priced at $660 (inc. GST): When a yearling is sired by a stallion which stood in Victoria during the 2022 breeding season.

■ Victorian Breedback (Category B), priced at $1320 (inc. GST):. When a yearling is not eligible for Victorian Sired (A) and its dam was served the following season by a Stallion who stood in Victoria

■ Victorian Breeder (Category C), priced at $1980 (inc. GST): When a yearling is not eligible for Category A or B but is at least 50 per cent owned by a Victorian-based breeder(s) at the time of the foal’s birth. In addition, the foal and dam must each have resided in Victoria for at least six continuous months after the foal was born in 2023, until the time of nominations closing.

- Racing Victoria

Weight scale move

■ Racing Victoria in conjunction with the Melbourne Racing Club and Victoria Racing Club has announced key changes to the weight scale for the 2025 Caulfield Cup (2400m) and Melbourne Cup (3200m) following an extensive review of the conditions of the two iconic handicap races.

September’s release of handicaps will see the minimum allotted weight for both Group 1 races increase from 50kg to 51kg while the minimum topweight will be raised from 58kg to 59kg. RV will also reinstate a minimum topweight of 57kg at final acceptance time for both events, with weights raised equally for all horses in the final field if the topweight is below the minimum. A minimum topweight at acceptance time was last in place for the Cups in 2016.

The adjustments aim to provide both races with the best chance of attracting the highest quality field of horses and jockeys and ensure owners and trainers have a broad cross section of jockeys to choose from.

The review was announced following the 2024 editions in response to feedback about the spread of weights among acceptors, the challenge for riders to make weights, and the difficulties for connections to engage their preferred jockey.

As part of new industry Racing Forums, extensive consultation ensued with all industry stakeholder groups including the Australian Trainers Association, Thoroughbred Racehorse Owners Association and Victorian Jockeys Association, as well as host clubs MRC and VRC.

In 2024, Kalapour topped the final Caulfield Cup field with 55kg, while Vauban’s 55.5kg made the Irish -trained entrant the highest weighted horse in the Melbourne Cup field.

The Caulfield Cup saw just five starters weighted at 54kg or above, while the Melbourne Cup had only four horses start with 54kg or more – the least amount in the last five editions.

As a result, it required jockeys to ride at lower weights with four Caulfield Cup runners on the 50kg minimum and eight in the Melbourne Cup, a record number for both races since the minimum weight for horses aged four and upwards was set at 50kg in 2007.

RV Chief Handicapper, David Hegan, said, “RV, the host Clubs and key stakeholder groups have all reached agreement on a revamped weight scale for the Cups. We believe the changes are in the best interests of these iconic races and more broadly Victorian racing.

“The revamped weight scale aims to ensure that the strongest possible field of competitors are present for two of the country’s most important races, while reducing the physical demands on jockeys so that they can perform at their best.

“These changes also mean that owners and trainers will have greater scope to select the rider of their choice in the Cups. Importantly, opportunities will remain for lightweight riders to showcase their talents on the big stage.”

VJA Chief Executive, Matt Hyland, said, “The VJA welcomes these changes to the weight scale which will allow all our members an equal

opportunity to ride in the Cups. We’re pleased that our feedback has been taken on board and that we’ve been able to work together to reach an agreement that will see increased opportunities for jockeys and greater choices for connections to book their preferred rider.”

ATA Chief Executive, Stephen Bell, said,

“The Caulfield and Melbourne Cups are critically important to Victorian racing and these changes should see both races given the chance to attract their best possible field.

“We want to see the strongest lineup of horses and riders present and the revamped weight scale encourages this through a greater spread of weights among those competing in the Cups This will deliver better opportunities for our trainers to select their preferred jockey in two of our biggest events.”

- Racing Victoria

Cup tickets on sale

■ Get excited for another incredible instalment of the Melbourne Cup Carnival in 2025.

Attendees can enjoy free entry to see live music performances, fresh new Fashions on the Field, casual seating, premium dining and hospitality plus Melbourne’s famous retail food and beverage scene.

Whether you choose to attend with a Flemington Pass (General Admission) ticket, a Reserved Table on the Front Lawn or one of the Dining packages, there is an option for everybody and ready to book now.

It’s time to explore, get your tickets and save the date to the 2025 Melbourne Cup Carnival. - Victorian Racing Club

● ● VJA Chief Executive, Matt Hyland. Photo VJA.

SHEPPARTON REMEMBERS NIC DEWAR

■ The regular Tuesday Shepparton meeting was held on April 8, a night that honored young Riverina reinsman Nic Dewar who was tragically killed in a road accident returning from a Shepparton meeting in February 2018.

The race being the 1690 metre Nic Dewar Memorial Pace with the winner being 6Y0 Sunshine Beach-Illawong Fabulous gelding Ohhemmjay Cresco trained by Gary Pekin at Girgarre East and driven by 20 year old Riverina based Harrison Ross.

Beginning fast to lead from gate two in the race restricted to concessional reinspersons, Ohhemmjay Cresco was rated a treat to score by an easy 7.6 metre margin in advance of Icanmotor (three pegs – one/one home turn –three wide in straight) and Favouritehighlight from a mile back who was 7.2 metres away. The mile rate 1-58.5. Another heat was held at his home town Young last Friday.

■ Bunbartha’s Newberry family John, Maree and Matt landed the Wednesday Wager SHRC Facebook Pace over 1690 metres with Alta Bayamo, a 4Y0 Alta Christiano-Shez Madam Jasper gelding bred by John and Maree.

Trained and driven by John, Alta Bayamo starting from the extreme draw settled near last as Rolling Remona (gate four) led. Going forward three wide solo in the last lap, Alta Bayamo dashed away on turning to register an impressive five metre margin in 1-57.8 over polemarker Our Mystery Bet (four pegs) which was extricated very wide on the final bend. Crazy On The Beach (gate three second line) ran home late for third a head away.

■ On a night where locals figured prominently, Kialla’s David Moran went from hero to villain so far as punters were concerned after snaring a stable double – 7Y0 Kiwi bred Muscle HillUnyielding Spirit gelding Tedesco ($2.70 fav) taking the Welcome Hygain To SHRC Trotters Handicap over 2190 metres and The Storm Inside-Shes Magnetic gelding Magnetic Storm ($34) the 1690 metre Helma Gash Neatline Homes 3Y0 Maiden Pace.

Tedesco starting from 10 metres stepped cleanly and after finding his rhythm, was off and running to go forward and take the lead away from polemarker Midnight Avenger turning off the back straight on the first occasion.

Never headed from there on, Tedesco was untroubled to greet the judge by 6.1 metres in a mile rate of 1-57.8 from Aristotle (20m – one/ three – three wide to race exposed at the bell).

Nine year old mare Starlight Red (death seat – one/one from barrier four at start 180 was third) 2.9 metres back. The mile rate 2-04.3.

On a great night for the Goulburn Valley other winners were Day Two (Wayne Potter and Mel Thackeray) and Hody Moke (Bec Bartley).

Len’s Comment

■ What has gone wrong with Sky Channel’s harness coverage ? Apart from the regular shafting of races to Sky 2 which is monotonous, it is rare should there be a photo finish for the result to be shown, plus on occasions a race is cut off after the winner crosses the wire not showing the run on.

Is it any wonder that turnover is down as punters are sick and tired of these happenings week in – week out.

At Bendigo

■ The strength of the trotters was shown at Wednesday’s Bendigo meeting with half the ten race card dedicated to them.

The Manburley Farm Trot over 1650 metres was taken out by 3Y0 Tennotrump-Amaori Spur gelding Ezra Kai trained by much travelled Amanda Greive presently based at Russell Jack’s Lemnos property.

Driven by Jordan Leedham, Ezra Kai (gate five) showed exceptional speed to cross polemarker JessicasStory running into the first turn and rated well, defied all challengers to greet the judge 4.8 metres in advance of Boutika (gate three second line) which ran on late. Jessicas Story used the sprint lane off the back of the leader for third a half neck away. The mile rate 1-58.8.

■ The 1650 metre Gold Central Victoria Trot saw Marong duo Terry and Jacinta-Allan Gange

Harness Racing

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker

successful once again with 7Y0 ChangeoverJomeka gelding Bullapark Beno in a 1-57.2 mile rate.

With leading reinsman James Herbertson aboard, Bullapark Beno (gate two) settled one/ one but a long way off the running leader Baarlinee (gate three) which went forward for Jack Laugher.

Easing three wide prior to the final bend, Bullapark Beno finished full of running to register a 2.6 metre margin ahead of Countess Chiron and Dossier who both ran on late from mid-field in the running line with 4.5 metres separating the placegetters.

■ The Aldebaran Park Trot over 2150 metres went the way of ’on fire’ Kialla owner/trainer/ driver Eddie Tappe’s 7Y0 Majestic Son-Aldebaran Poppy mare Abbie.

In a best ever performance, Abbie starting from inside the second line possied five back along the markers as Magic Law (gate five) was crossed by the in-form red-hot favourite Lizzies Son (gate four).

Extricating three wide racing for the bell to race exposed for the last lap, Abbie to the dismay of punters raced straight past Lizzies Son in the back straight opening up a big gap on her rivals.

Looking all over a winner on turning, Abbie held on to prevail by a neck from Magic Law who was inconvenienced momentarily by the weakening Lizzies Son. Kalarney Prince (four pegs) was third 4.3 metres back. The mile rate 2-02.2.

■ The Apco Service Stations Strathdale & Kangaroo Flat 2Y0 Trot over 1650 metres was a triumph for Mucklford’s Angove family who snared the trifecta when Brad landed the quinella with Northern Truscott and Truscotts Elegance and Dad Chris preparing the third placegetter African Gala. Northern Truscott a home bred filly by Sundons Courage from Yankee Truscott driven by Brad possied four back along the markers from inside the second line with Truscotts Elegance (Jordan Leedham) (gate six – one/ two) as Argyle Muse (Jason Ainsworth) led from the pole, while African Gala (Jack Laugher) settled three pegs from gate two.

The race was to change complexion approaching the home turn when Argyle Muse galloped causing a number of the babies to go off stride.

This allowed Northern Truscott to gain an inside passage and stride clear with Truscotts Elegance giving chase, however the post came up too quickly. African Gala was third, the margins being 3.8 by 23.3 metres in a respectable rate of 2-02.3.

■ Haddon part-owner/trainer Damien Burns landed the 1650 metre Great Ocean Road Real Estate 2Y0 Pace with Warrawee Needy-Princess Dilinger colt Maxo Mighty making it two from two race appearances.

Restrained from outside the front line, Maxo Mighty once balanced was sent forward to join the leader Double Needs (gate four) with the pair racing together until the home turn when Maxo Mighty strode clear to score by five metres over Captain Crunch colt Caties Son (one/one) from gate three which ran home nicely on debut for Wayne Potter. Double Needs held third 24.8 metres back in a slick 1-56 mile rate.

10 races at K’more

■ Kilmore conducted a huge 10 race program of entertaining racing on Thursday April 10 with four winners from the outlying area.

Monegeetta trainer/driver David Miles was victorious with 5Y0 Downbytheseaside-Soho New York gelding Rockaway Beach in the 1690 metre TAB Pace, leading throughout from gate two, accounting for Lenard Ess from outside the front line which was eased to near last before racing wide in the last lap to go down by 1.4 metres. Inside Leg (gate five) shifted from midfield in the running line to the sprint lane in the straight for third a half neck away in a blanket finish for the minor placing. The mile rate 155.2.

■ Riddell co-trainers Chris Lang and Sonia Mahar’s lovely 3Y0 Skyvalley-Sosoclassy colt Sky Spirit (gate two) led all of the way in the Broadstead Kilmore Trotters Mobile over 2180 metres.

Driven by Chris, Sky Spirit was given an easy time before kicking clear on turning to greet the judge by 10.7 metres untouched from No Money No Honey which had vacated a one/two passage to race outside the winner at the bell. Kimberleys Tree (gate four) was a game third 10.1 metres back for Nick Beale after racing uncovered. The mile rate 2-02.8.

■ Kilmore’s Corey Bell combined with George Chamouras to capture the MC Security Concession Drivers Pace over 2180 metres with 7Y0 Northern Terror-Sunday Rose gelding Northern Terror returning a 2-03 mile rate.

Trailing the well fancied poleline leader Rocket Me from inside the second line, Northern Terror made full use of the sprint lane to record an easy 8.7 metre margin from Feel The Buzz starting outside the front line which angled to three pegs before also using the sprint lane. Rocket Me weakened to be third 1.9 metres back.

■ Darraweit trainer Lisa Miles was successful with promising 4Y0 Aldebaran Eagle-Sashas Dream 4Y0 mare Winnies Dream in the 1690 metre Buds & Branches Florist Trotters Mobile.

Driven by James Herbertson, Winnies Dream a winner of three from eleven going into the race was first up since December and after beginning fast from gate two, led throughout to register a metre victory over polemarker Constant (four pegs) which ran home strongly along the sprint lane. Sovereign Tiger came from the tail on turning for third 3.1 metres back. The mile rate 1-59.4.

■ Dunnstown’s David Murphy stunned punters when 4Y0 Always B Miki-Young Jane mare Janiebquick was victorious in the 1690 metre Momentum Gaming Pace paying odds of $51. Settling four back along the markers from gate three on the second line as polemarker Another Puddin led, Janiebquick was able to come away from the inside in the last lap to be three back in the moving line with horses all around her.

Angling to the sprint lane on turning, Janiebquick certainly was at the finish, rushing home to gain the day by a half head from Reign Em In (one/three – three wide trail last lap) and a death-seating Best Back Bruce who was 2.4 metres away third. The mile rate 1-56.7.

■ The Carlton & United Breweries Pace over 1690 metres gave part-owner Mark Delre of the Famiglia Racing Syndicate along with Ian Caruana and Vince Dicocco a great birthday present when 3Y0 Bling It On-Zindal gelding Mighty Bling scored in a mile rate of 1-55.7.

Trained at Toolern Vale by Vince, Mighty Bling with Jack Laugher aboard possied three back in the moving line from gate two as polemarker Segui Le Stella led.

Taken four wide in the last lap, Mighty Bling finished his race off well to blouse the pacemaker which had kicked away in the straight looking the winner before being nabbed by both Mighty Bling and Im All Business down the outside fence off a four wide trail last lap. The margins a head by a half head in a thrilling finish.

■ Nobody loves their harness racing more than South Oakleigh trainer Alan Ratnasingham who was successful with honest 8Y0 Heston Blue Chip-Illawong Princess mare Illawong Phoenix in the Jet Roofing Pace over 2180 metres. With Bendigo’s Ellen Tormey in the sulky,

Sulky Snippets Sulky Snippets

This Week

■ Monday – Maryborough, Tuesday –Shepparton, Wednesday – Mildura/Bendigo, Thursday – Ballarat, Friday – Stawell/ Cranbourne, Saturday – Melton, Sunday –Echuca (Easter Cup), Tuesday – Mildura/ Shepparton.

Illawong Phoenix flew away from gate four to lead and rated to perfection, defied all challengers to record a 2.4 metre margin (her 11th in 159 outings) from Kimchi (gate three second line) from five back in the running line. Marako Shark (four back from gate two second line) was third a nose away. The mile rate 2-00.6.

■ Charlton based trainer Zac Steenhuis combined with James Herbertson to land the 1690 metre C&M Build Group 4Y0 and Older Maiden Pace with 4Y0 Roll With Joe-Rinjani mare Lombok returning a 1-57.3 mile rate. Raced by a large syndicate, Lombok making her seventh appearance at the races did it tough, but did it well after racing exposed from gate five to blouse the leader Peppercorn Barry by 1.4 metres, with Howsweetthesound 1.8 metres back third after trailing the front runner from gate three.

■ Ardmona duo Donna Castles (trainer) and Doc Wilson (driver) were successful with 4Y0 Always B Miki-Somesorta Philtra mare Sneaky Philtra in the 1690 metre O’Brien Electrical 4Y0 and Older Maiden Pace.

Given a sweet passage from gate two trailing polemarker Keeping It Simple, Sneaky Philtra eased off the leaders back in the home straight and ran on best to just get there by a head from Rollwithharty (four pegs – one/two home turn from gate two on the second line) which flashed late to just fail in a 1-58.9 mile rate. Keeping It Simple held third 4 metres back.

Melton memo

■ At Melton on Friday 5Y0 A Rocknroll DanceSlangevar mare First Dance was impressive in taking the 1720 metre Betavet Pace. Trained by Jess Tubbs at Myrniong and driven by James Herbertson, First Dance (gate five) wasn’t pushed as the start was effected with rank outsider Our Cheeky Devil momentarily leading from the pole before handing over to Give Dave A Wave (gate four) and First Dance going forward three wide to park in the open.

Racing for the bell Greg Sugars set Hes From Heaven alight from the rear to race exposed giving First Dance one/one cover for the final circuit. With Tango Tara commencing a forward move three wide in the back straight on the final occasion First Dance became pocketed before angling three wide to follow Tango Tara into the straight as Hes From Heaven started to struggle.

Dashing clear halfway up the running Tango Tara looked set for victory until First Dance peeled of his back to blouse him and record a 2.7 metre victory in a mile rate of 1-53.2.

Our Cheeky Devil used the sprint lane for third 6.9 metres back. The winner is raced by a big syndicate headed by Shannon Nixon which includes Jess Tubbs and Father Brian Glasheen.

- Len Baker

3-year-old dies

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a fatal collision in Ocean Grove. Emergency services were called to reports a car had lost control and collided with a child on the footpath at Presidents Avenue about 4.50pm on Friday. The three-year-old child died at the scene. The driver, a 71-year-old Ocean Grove woman, was arrested at the scene.

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‘Hard copies’ available free through a network of outlets across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and selected country areas. Print edition dates in 2025 are: Feb. 5, Feb. 19, Mar. 5, Mar. 19, Apr. 2, Apr. 16, Apr. 30, May 14, May 28, Jun. 11, Jun. 25, Jul. 9, Jul. 23, Aug. 6, Aug. 20, Sep. 3, Sep. 17, Oct. 1, Oct. 15, Oct. 29, Nov. 12, Nov. 26, Dec. 10. Lodge your ads by 4pm Friday prior to publication.

PRINT EDITION AREAS

Eastern Suburbs Edition. Boroondara (north), Knox-Sherbrooke, Manningham, Maroondah, Monash, Whitehorse. Lilydale and Yarra Valley Edition. Healesville, Lilydale, Mount Evelyn, Warburton. Mitchell Strathbogie Edition. Avenel, Beveridge, Broadford, Euroa, Kilmore, Nagambie, Seymour, Wallan, Wandong-Heathcote Junction. North-West Edition. Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Hume, Maribyrnong, Melton, Merri-bek, Moonee Valley. Moorabool, Wyndham Northern Suburbs Edition. Banyule, Darebin (north - Preston-Reservoir), Darebin (southNorthcote, Thornbury), Nillumbik (urban), Whittlesea (urban). Regional Edition. Mansfield, Murrindindi (Alexandra, Kinglake, Yea), Nilllumbik (rural), Whittlesea (rural). Southern Cross Weekly Edition. Bayside, Boroondara (south), Glen Eira, Kingston, Melbourne, Port Phillip, Stonnington, Yarra. South-East. Cardinia, Casey, Frankston, Greater Dandenong, Mornington Peninsula.

FREE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Free non-commercial classified advertising is available for individual readers, selling iitems. Your ad can be up to 40 words. This service is available at the sole discretion of the Editor. Ads will appear for up to 4 weeks. Free ads are not available to businesses or organisations. Deadline: 4pm Fridays prior to Print Edition. You can lodge your Free Ad by:

• WEB: www.AdvertiseFree.com.au

• EMAIL: editor@LocalPaper.com.au

• POST: Mail the form (available in this newspaper) to PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095. Free Ads will not be accepted by phone.

SOME ADVERTISING RULES

• All car advertisers must supply registration or Vehicle Identification Numbers. By law, we are unable to publish listings without those details.

• Any person or business advertising to sell or give away a dog, cat, puppy or kitten in Victoria must be enrolled on the Pet Exchange Register to obtain a source number, and must include this source number along with each animal's microchip number in all advertisements.

• Advertisers should be honest in their dealings. Claims should be true, accurate and based on reasonable grounds.

FREE non-commercial classified advertising is available for individual readers, selling iitems. Your ad can be up to 40 words. This service is available at the sole discretion of the Editor. Ads will appear for up to 4 weeks. Free ads are not available to businesses or organisations. Deadline: 4pm Fridays prior to Print Edition. You can lodge your Free Ad by:

• WEB: www.Advertise Free.com.au

• EMAIL: editor@Local Paper.com.au

• POST: Mail the form (available in this newspaper) to PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095. Free Ads will not be accepted by phone.

ALL CAR advertisers must supply registration or Vehicle Identification Numbers. By law, we are unable to publish listings without those details.

FREE PHOTO ADS AdvertiseFree.com.au

moulde, EC. $475. Broadford. Owen, 0434 037 941. N-Q

PRIVATE SELLERS can have a free 40-word ‘For Sale’ ad - plus a single colour photo - in The Local Paper Classifieds to sell their items. Your free ad will appear in all editions of The Local Paper, covering all suburbs of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula, and selected Victorian country areas. Your free ad will appear in up to 4 issues. There are no charges, no commissions. T&Cs apply. Lodge your ad at: www.AdvertiseFree.com.au

BED. Single. Electric folable with massage and remote control. Adjustable back, legs and height. New Aspire mattress. German motor. EC. $500. Diamond Creek. 0401 473 565.N-Q

CANE BASKETS. Two, Large. GC. $30. Keon Park. 9469 4558. N-Q

CHAIRS. Two, Cushions. $50. Keon Park. 9469 4558. N-Q

DOG KENNEL. Plastic. Grey colour. Very clean. never used as kennel. GC. $10. Purchaser to collect. Doreen. 9717 3465. N-Q

GARDEN ROCKS. Approx. 200mm-150mm for landscaping. Approx. 260. Free. Nunawading, 0407 696 343. N-Q

LATEST ADS

BASSINET. Chrome frame and high chair. VGC. $25 for both. Thomastown. 0428 833 398. N-Q

BRICKS. 100 clean, red. Plus halves. $50. Keon Park. 9469 4558.N-Q

CAMPER TRAILER. Used once. Slide out kiychen plus extras. VGC. $4300. Dromana. 5981 4517. N-Q

CLARE Circulatuon Stimulator. VGC. 150 ONO. Frankston. 9789 9634. N-Q

COLLECTORS Melway Nos 9, 20, 33. Wax matches (234) in book, 17 loose. VFL Records, finals, mainly Richmond. Small and large. Phone cards. Vatious prices. Box Hill South., 9890 7904.N-Q

FORD AUII Fairport V8 Sedan. Original.Runs well. No rust. Good tyres, new screen, bring your mechanic or RACV test, RWC. Reg 7/27. 2AN3XE. VCG. $8000. Seymour. 0419 881 573. N-Q

GARDEN ROCKS. Small and medium. All sizes. All free. Also 12 blue stone pitches. All free. Bulleen. 9850 5128. N-Q

PARTS for Ford AUIIV8. Secondhand. Struts. New parts: ball joints, 2 boxes of parts. VGC. $1000. Seymour 0419 881 573. N-Q

TABLE. Large solid timber, dining room table, 2100mm x 1000mm. Plus six chairs. GC. $30. Yea. 0419 109 887. N-Q

TABLE. Round. Polished timber. 100cm diameter. Seats 4. VGC. $90. Mill Park. 9436 8935. N-Q

NEWSPAPERS. Herald; end of First World War; start of the Second World War. Original papers, worn. Offers. Seymour. 0419 881 573. F-M

42, 43, 44, 45, 46,. 47, 48, 49, 51, 52. GC. $3. Mill Park. 0452 665 276. H-O

OLD STAMPS, tools, tobacco bins, Telephone, pocket knifes, cigarette lighters, LP records, first covers and more. Australia decimal and pre-decimal bank notes. Used. Prices negot. Thomastown. 0425 733 890. F-M

PICTURE FRAMES. 40 large to small. Various styles. VGC. All only $70. Keon Park. 9469 4558. N-Q

PORTABLE SAUNA. Top condition. $150. Alphington. 0401 226 114. F-M

SAWS. 5 vintage saws for woodwork. FC. $20. Also frame for manual sharpening, GC. $8. Ashburton. 9885 2203.F-M

SHEEP. 60 mixed breed ewes, been running with rams, have ear tags. Friendly, great lawnmowers, saves mowing the paddocks and helps reduce fire risk. Can deliver. GC. $130. Deanside. 0426 397 741N-Q

TYRE CHANGERS. Manual. Little used, complete with instructions, purchaser to collect. GC. $90. Doreen. 9717 3465 N-Q

TRAIN BOOKS. Wide variety of books and pamphlets to all types of trains. All prices negotiable. Research. 9437 1253. N-Q

section at the www.Local Paper.com.au website

due to owner pass- ing away. GC. $1000. Thomastown. 0421 819 286.F-M

WHEELCHAIR. Manual. Evoke 2 Aspire 450mm. new, never been used as too small for subject. Foldable and extremely light for easy transport. Well made, Top of the range. EC. $600. Diamond Creek. 0401 473 565.N-Q

PUBLIC NOTICES

Victoria.

June 14. 9.30am. Deakin University, Burwood. Rusden Theatre. Free parking and entry to large plant and allied goods market. Inspiring speakers: James Wall, Heidi Martin, Vasili Kanidiadis, $25, All welcome. plantzia@bigpond.com N-Q

8935. H-O

bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, laundry and living area. Private entrance. Price includes utilities (power/gas/water).

$300 per week. Diamond Creek. 0404 433 572.

CHAINS Bible College Australia; In depth Bible study and online Biblical studies. 0447 515 450 N-Q

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

ANGEL STATUE with adjustable wings. Approx. one metre tall. Solid

Classifieds 9489 2222

MOVING

INTERSTATE

Home Contents Sale

Vintage Furniture, Rugs, Bikes, Garden Pots, Piano, Lamps and more. Call to inspect.

MALVERN EAST 0414 205 133

PUBLIC NOTICES

SECURT PTY LTD (ABN: 70 615 508 113) Trading as PROFORCE MONITORING of 99 Hope Street, Brunswick VIC 3056 has made application to the Licensing & egulation Division for a Private Security Business Registration to provide the services of security advisers and security equipment installers. Any person wishing to object to the granting of the registration has 14 days from the date of this advertisement to lodge an objection in writing to Licensing & Regulation Division, GPO Box 2807, Melbourne VIC 3001.

We, ROYAL STATION TOBACCONIST PTY LTD applied to Liquor Control Victoria on 3rd April 2025 for the grant of a packaged liquor licence at 588A Station Street, Box Hill VIC 3128. The purpose of this application is to allow the sale of packaged liquor (alcohol for consumption off the premises).

Any person may object to the grant of this application on the grounds that:

• it would detract from, or be detrimental to, the amenity of the area in which the premises are situated, and/or

• it would be conducive to or encourage the misuse or abuse of alcohol.

An objection must state the reasons for the objection. All objections are treated as public documents. Objections must be made in writing to: Liquor Control Victoria PO Box 1019 Richmond VIC 3121

Objections must be made no later than 30 days after the date of this notice.