The Local Paper. Regional Edition. Wed., Mar. 26, 2025

WHITTLESEA VEHICLE CRIME UP 73 PER CENT

■ Crime in Whittlesea has increased over the past 12 months, says Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish.

“Alarming new data from the Crime Statistics Agency confirms that law and order has spiralled out of control, with serious crimes rising to record levels under Jacinta Allan’s leadership,” Ms McLeish said.

Key Crime Statistics in Whittlesea are:

■ Motor Vehicle Theft up 73 per cent

■ Steal From a Motor Vehicle up 71per cent

■ Steal From a Retail Store up 52 per cen t

■ Residential Aggravated Burglary up 28 per cent

■ Residential Non-Aggravated Burglary up 21 per cent

“Across Victoria, crime has increased by 16 per cent in the last year and 19 per cent since Jacinta Allan became Premier.

“Of most concern, is the increased rate of youth offending. Since Jacinta Allan became Premier, crimes committed by teens aged 17 and under, has increased by 16 per cent.

Ms McLeish said Labor has lost control of crime, leaving families, businesses, and communities vulnerable.

“Crime is out of control, and Jacinta Allan has no plan to stop it. Victorians should feel safe in their homes, their cars, and their businesses – but under Labor, crime is booming, and our communities are suffering.”

● Cindy McLeish, Eildon MLA

PROMISE FOR MEN’S SHED

● ● Jason McClintock, Liberal candidate

■ A Dutton Government will support the expansion of Whittlesea Men’s Shed, with a contribution of $40,000 to create space for growing women’s participation, says Liberal McEwen candidate Jason McClintock.

Mr McClintock said this investment will help the Women's Shed increase participation and enable both organisations to enhance the valuable work they do for the community.

“The Whittlesea Men’s Shed and the Whittlesea Women's Shed play an essential role in promoting the health and wellbeing of the Whittlesea community.” Mr McClintock said.

“After being rejected by the Victorian Labor Government’s Men’s Shed Funding Program, I am very pleased to secure this federal Liberal election commitment for the Whittlesea Men's and Women's Shed.”

“We need to support programs that provide a safe and welcoming space where men and women can openly discuss their mental health struggles and receive support from their peers.”

President of the Whittlesea Men's Shed, Eric Gunstone, said “It's great to see someone making such an effort to secure these funds. Jason's positivity and passion for the community are evident. With Jason's support, we can now realise these renovations.”

Shadow Minister Sussan Ley said: “I'm proud that a Dutton-led Government will deliver this important funding for the Whittlesea community.”

The Local Paper

HAINES WELCOMES BUDGET

Montrose fire

■ Yarra Ranges Crime Investigation Unit detectives have interviewed four boys following a fire in Montrose on Saturday, March 15. Emergency services were called to reports of a fire at Dr Ken Leversha Reserve about 2pm.

The fire quickly spread and caused damage to nearby properties.

Four boys from the Yarra Ranges have since been interviewed by detectives. They were released pending further investigation.

Detectives are not looking for anyone else in relation to the incident.

Healesville vision

■ The Healesville and valley communities are being encouraged to share their thoughts and vision about how the town should look and be experienced in 20 years.

The ideas and insights will be turned into a draft Township Design Framework later this year to provide a community supported framework for any future projects and action.

Residents can now visit Shaping Yarra Ranges and take part in activities to help imagine what Healesville could look like by 2045.

Ryrie Ward Councillor, Fiona McAllister, explained that the community’s ideas and suggestions would be used to draft a design framework. This document will then be shared with the community for review and feedback before being finalised.

“To get this framework right, it is so important to hear from a wide range of people on what they love about Healesville, any aspects that could be improved, and what their hopes are for the future of our town. The key purpose of a document like this, created with the community, it to make sure that Council can plan and find funding for the projects that matter most; the projects that will ensure we continue to have great places for us to enjoy and come together and to support local businesses to thrive,” Cr McAllister said.

■ Indi MHR Helen Haines has welcomed tax cuts and funding to deliver more training places for doctors in regional Australia under key announcements in the 2025-26 Federal Budget last night (Tues., Mar. 25).

Dr Haines says her advocacy for a Commonwealth injection of funding into the regional healthcare workforce was substantially reflected in the Budget

In her Indi Budget Submission, Dr Haines requested the Government provide additional funding, including via Commonwealth Supported Places, for regionally-based medicine university courses.

The Government announced in the Budget that 200 rural GPs will be trained every year by 2028, as part of the $606.3 million committed in the budget.

The Budget revealed that universities wanting to access the $35.7 million for 100 new Commonwealth Supported Places a year in medicine must demonstrate evidence-based strategies that encourage medical students to pursue a career in general practice, particularly in regional, rural and remote areas of Australia

“This is a critical announcement and a win for regional areas facing critical shortages of healthcare workers, with a commitment to 50 percent of additional General Practitioner trainee places being in regional and rural Australia,” said Dr Haines

Dr Haines welcomed the requirement on CSP funding for regionally-based medicine, and said she would be following up with universities and government alike to make sure it is being met.

Dr Haines welcomed other healthcare inclusions, such as cheaper medicines by lowering the Pharmaceutical Medicines Scheme general patient co-payment from $31.60 to $25 from January 1, and $7.9 billion to expand eligibility for bulk billing incentives to all Australians

“We know that Australians are failing to fill their scripts for medicines, or failing to go to the GP, just because it costs too much. These measures will help alleviate that.”

Dr Haines criticised the Government for a lack of dedicated funding for building hospitals in regional Australia

“Under this budget, once again there is no fund for health services like Albury Wodonga Health to bid into for a new hospital.”

“Until Federal Governments realise that Commonwealth financial support is absolutely

● Helen Haines, Indi MHR necessary, regional and rural health services will keep struggling to provide the healthcare their communities deserve”.

Dr Haines said the surprise inclusion of further modest tax cuts was an ‘election sweetener’ but nevertheless would be welcomed by Australians in the face of continued cost-of-living pressures.

Dr Haines said more needed to be done for people on low incomes and to help households and small business electrify.

“Every dollar of relief makes a big difference to everyday Australians right now.”

Regional News

Mt Buller Rd limit

■ Northern Victoria MLC Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell has called on the State Government to deliver a promised speed reduction on Mt Buller Rd on the outskirts of Mansfield.

The Department of Transport and Planning last year announced plans to extend the 80-kmh zone on Mt Buller Rd to the east to incorporate the intersection of MansfieldWoods Point Rd.

Mansfield Shire Council had successfully lobbied the Department for the change after a tragic fatal collision at the intersection in April 2024.

Speaking during the adjournment debate directed to the Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne, Mrs Tyrrell said the lowering of the speed limit from 100-kmh to 80-kmh was necessary for the safety of all road users.

“After a tragic fatal collision at the Mt Buller Rd and Mansfield-Woods Point Rd, the Department of Transport and Planning agreed to lower the speed limit at the intersection to 80-kmh,” Mrs Tyrrell said.

“That was back in September last year and six months later the limit on this dangerous section of road remains at 100-kmh.”

The issue was raised with Mrs Tyrrell during a meeting with Mansfield Shire Mayor Steve Rabie.

Mrs Tyrrell said Mt Buller Road is used by both locals and tourists, particularly during the busy snow season, with visitors making their way to and from the snow fields.

The Local Paper

association with the Established September 14, 1969

Published 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

CONTACT US

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

Mail: PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095

Web: www.LocalPaper.com.au

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E-Mail: Editor@LocalPaper.com.au

Editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au

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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

Rubbish dumpers to be named

■ The City of Whittlesea has established a new waste taskforce in response to the ongoing problem of managing illegally dumped rubbish.

“The taskforce brings together key teams across Council to focus on three main goals: educating the community on the best options to dispose of waste, holding offenders publicly accountable and reducing the cost of cleanups,” said a Whittlesea Council repreesentative.

At last week’s municipal meeting (Tues., Mar. 18), THE Council also resolved to advocate to the State Government to reinvest the Landfill Levy paid by Council to help cover the increased costs associated with illegal dumping.

The community is encouraged to continue to report illegally dumped rubbish and any identifying information, such as number plates or CCTV, through Snap Send Solve.

Residents in the City of Whittlesea, including renters, have access to a range of local free and discounted waste disposal options.

These include two free hard rubbish collections, a discounted general waste voucher, four free green waste vouchers, four free timber waste vouchers, two free brick and rubble vouchers, free drop off for e-waste and free recycling stations for batteries, medicine packs and more.

A handy guide of waste disposal options is available on Council’s website to

Long Shots

help residents easily find out the best option for their waste – often it’s local and free.

City of Whittlesea Mayor, Cr Aidan McLindon said:

“We all know we have been dealing with an increase in dumped rubbish around our neighbourhoods.

“Council has decided to take strong action and invest in prevention, support for our community and continuing to enforce the law.

“We are also advocating to the State Government to reinvest the Landfill Levy to help reduce the cost to our community of this ongoing problem.”

“Through our new dedicated taskforce, we will improve how we support our community, so they know how to get their waste to the right place.

“We will also name offenders to make sure anyone out there thinking of dumping knows we are serious about keeping our streets and neighbourhoods beautiful and safe for all,” Cr McLindon said.

Petition time

■ In line with Whittlesea Mayopr Cr Aidan McLindon’s call for CEO Craig Lloyd and monitors Peita Duncan and Jude Munro to stand aside, a petition is underway with residents calling for the same outcome.

It is unknown whether or not Mr Lloyd will ban the petition from being listed on the Whittlesea Council agenda.

Local Photo Flashback

● ● The next print issue of The Local Paper is scheduled for Wednesday, April 2. Deadline for advertising bookings and content is 4pm Thursday, March 27.

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.

Cheryl Threadgold, Local Theatre

Houghton, The Arts Kevin Trask, Entertainment

Rourke, Film

Ryan, Horse Racing

Baker, Harness Racing

Council Rounds

Grants galore

■ More than $450,000 in grants have been allocated to community groups, senior citizen groups, not-for-profit organisations, Neighbourhood Houses, sporting groups and individuals in the latest round of funding through the City of Whittlesea Community Grants Program

The Community Grants program, which was introduced in 2023, offers grants to support the community to deliver programs, activities and events as well as supporting individuals in leadership, creative arts, sports or environmental initiatives.

In the first half of the 2024-25 financial year, six individual grants, eight small grants, ten medium grants and three large grants were offered for programs and activities ranging from community Christmas and new year celebrations, sporting equipment, festivals and support for individuals to attend national and international competitions.

Three-year funding agreements have been established to support the Epping RSL deliver the ANZAC Day service and the Whittlesea Chinese Association to deliver their Lunar New Year celebration.

Grants were also provided to 74 senior citizen groups totaling $281,079, supporting the groups to provide activities and social support to older residents across the City of Whittlesea.

To learn more about the City of Whittlesea Community Grants program, a free information session will be held on Thursday May 8, from 6pm-7pm at the Miller Community Centre, 11 Mill Park Drive, Mill Park

Applications for the next round of medium and large grants will be processed after March 31. Applications for small and individual grants will reopen on April 15 and continue to be assessed monthly.

A free grant writing workshop will be held on Tuesday May 13, from 6pm-8pm at the Riverside Community Activity Centre, 8 Doreen Rogen Way, South Morang to help applicants prepare their grant applications.

Rebels play this Saturday Local Sport

■ The Alexandra Rebels will play Hawthorn Amateurs in a final practice match before Round 1.

There will be two games with the Reserves kicking off at 12 Noon, canteen and bar facilities will be open.

The netballers will be hosting an intra-club match in the morning starting at 10am. The Club encourage sall members and supporters to come along and show their support.

Congratulations to Under 14 Coach Bec Clark who was selected to be part of the 2025 National She Can Coach Program presented by BHP.

The program was run over two days (Saturday- Sunday, March 22-23) and was run out of The Hangar, Essendon Football Club headquarters.

This program shines a light on women in coaching and the two days of workshops is designed to help improve the capacity of the individuals coaching and to connect them with a network of female coaches from around the country.

The club is still seeking volunteers for several important roles ahead of the 2025 season:

■ Junior Canteen Manager: The club is looking for a Canteen Manager to oversee operations during Junior home games. This role could potentially be shared, and full training and assistance will be provided. If interested, please contact Kath Hedger at 0438 520 382 or Melissa Crane on 0412 794 022.

■ Senior Trainer: The club is also in need of a Senior Trainer. Trainers play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of players during games and training sessions. If you are interested in this role, please contact President Kylie Cairns at 0409 932 761 for more information.

■ Netball Umpires: Each year the club is required to provide umpires for our Senior Netball Competition (Under 17, D and C grades) for all home and away matches. If anyone is interested in umpiring, please reach out to Brodie

Wheelhouse on 0400 154 458.

Thursday night dinners have started back up at the club and everyone is welcome to join us.

There are two dinner sittings with the first at 6pm and then second around 7.30pm.

This week on the menu is Chicken schnitzel rolls with coleslaw and chips.

Memberships and Sponsorships are available, and anyone looking to purchase a membership ticket or sponsor the club please contact us at the new email address alexandrafnc@ outereastfn.com.au

- Michelle Jack

Scoreboard

Yea Golf Club

■ Wednesday (Mar. 19) saw 19 men including three visitors play a stableford round at Yea.

Winner with 39 points was Bob Glenister (11) from runner-up Russ Wealands (24) 37, third Rob Gill (30) 36 on CB from Brendan Chenhall (15) fourth. NTP on the 14th was Alan Pell and Mick Sheather took out the Club Award, Saturday (Mar. 22) had 21 men contest the Monthly Medal with Captain Alan Pell (13) winning the Medal with nett 66. Second was Russ Wealands (24) again with nett 68 followed by Brendan ‘Trout’ Chenhall (15) with nett 69 third. Fourth was Paul Clayton ((9) with nett 71 on CB from fifth Allan Coates (8).

The putting was won by John Phillips with 25 putts and Steve Rumney won the Club Award. Rick Wills was NTP on the 18th. This week Yea Golf Club is on tour to the Murray River. Tocumwal Monday, CobramBarooga Tuesday and Black Bull Yarrawonga Thursday will see 29 golfers and partners attend the pleasures of the river country up north.

-

Alan Pell

SDCA results

■ A-Grade. Grand Final. Saturday, March 22. Tallarook A Grade 2/105 v Yea Tigers A Grade 10/104. At Tallarook Recreation Reserve.

■ B-Grade. Grand Final. Saturday, March 22. Avenel Senior Men 9/160 v Alexandra B Grade 10/94. At Avenel Recreation Reserve

Wide readership

● ● This edition of The Local Paper covers the municipalities of Mansfield, Mitchell, Murrindindi, Nillumbik (rural), Strathbogie (part)), Whittlesea (rural) and Yarra Ranges. Digital issues are produced weekly, print issues are available fortnightly (Feb.-Dec.).

● ● Action in the AlexandraBonnie Doon practice match.

Photo: Alexandra Rebels

Where

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

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Corner Hotel.

65 Grant St.

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

■ ■ WATTLE GLEN. Peppers

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

Court Lists

Seymour Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings

Thursday, March 27

Brennan-Nixon, Kristen John Friday, March 28

Local Briefs

Theft of boat

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

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■ ALEXANDRA. Foodworks. 102 Grant St.

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

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

■ WESBURN. Hotel. 2882 Warburton Hwy.

■ WONGA PARK. IGA Xpress.

70 Jumping Creek Rd.

Bunworth, Dane Freedman, Scott Wednesday, April 2

Lysikatos, Peter Thursday, April 3

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■ ALEXANDRA. Mount Pleasant Hotel. 90 Grant St.

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■ ALEXANDRA. Nutrien Harcourts. 56 Grant St.

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

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

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

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

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■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Shamrock Hotel. 80 Grant St.

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

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Totally Trout. 42 Downey St.

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

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■ BUXTON. Buxton Hotel. 2192 Maroondah Hwy.

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■ BUXTON. Shell Buxton. 2093 Maroondah Hwy.

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

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

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■ EILDON. Foodworks. 18 Main St.

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

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

■ ■ EPPING. Epping RSL. Harvest Home Rd.

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

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

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■ ■ ■ ■ FLOWERDALE. Hazeldene General Store. 6 Curlings Rd.

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■ GLENBURN. Glenburn Roadhouse. 3883 Melba Hwy.

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■ ■ ■ 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.

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

■ ■ MANSFIELD. Foodworks. 119 High St.

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■ ■ MARYSVILLE. Foodworks. 40A Darwin St.

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

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

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

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

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

■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Whittlesea NewsXpress. 45 Church St.

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

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

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

■ ■ YARCK. Yarck Hotel. Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ YEA. Amble Inn Cafe. 24 High St.

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

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

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

Mitchell Shire Edition

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

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Corner Store. 89 High St.

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■ BROADFORD. Broadford Hotel. 100 High St.

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■ YEA. Country Club Hotel. 18 High St.

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

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Newsagency. 67 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Post Office. 123 High St.

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■ YEA. Foodworks. 10 High St.

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■ YEA. Giddy Coat Cafe. 94

High St.

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■ ■ BROADFORD. Broadford Service Station. 165 High St.

■ Marine Investigation Unit detectives are investigating the theft of a boat in Bundoora It is believed unknown offenders have attended a university campus on Plenty Rd at 11.45pm on March 3.

The unknown offender used a vehicle, described as a dark-coloured Toyota Prado, to steal the boat and trailer worth a combined total of $177,000.

Detectives have released images of the boat and the offending vehicle in the hope someone may recognise them.

Dirt jump rides

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

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

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

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■ 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.

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■ ■ 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.

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

■ ■ THORNTON. 4 Ways Diner.

1369 Taggerty-Thornton Rd.

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

■ YEA. Grand Central Hotel. 64

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High St.

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■ YEA. Marmalades. 20 High St.

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■ YEA. Mint and Jam. 46 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Nutrien Harcourts. 52

High St.

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■ BROADFORD. Commercial Hotel. 31 High St.

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

■ BROADFORD. IGA Supermarket. 65 High St.

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

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■ ■ YEA. Peppercorn Hotel. 21 Station St.

■ ■ YEA. Provender Bakery. 56 High St.

■ DONNYBROOK. Donnybrook Hotel. 825 Donnybrook Rd.

■ DONNYBROOK. Donnybrook Post Office. 810 Donnybrook Rd.

■ KILMORE. BP. 102 Sydney St.

■ YEA. Rendezvous In Yea. 10

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High St.

■ ■ YEA. Royal Mail Hotel. 88

High St.

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

■ The City of Whittlesea is giving dirt jump riders the chance to learn new skills under the watchful eye of experts at its track in Doreen.

The dirt jumps track at Painted Hills Recreation Reserve has proved a hit with bike riders of all ages and skill levels since it opened last September.

Dirt jumps are jumps of various sizes made from compacted soil that riders, usually on BMX or mountain bikes, perform tricks on.

Designed to cater to beginner, intermediate and advanced riders, the track at Doreen was built in response to a surge of interest in dirt jumping, especially among younger residents.

A family-friendly launch event featuring a variety of free activities will be held on Saturday (Mar. 29).

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■ ■ YEA. Yea Bakery. 44 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Yea Newsagency. 74

High St.

■ ■ YEA. Yea Take-Away. 68 High St.

Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express Edition

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

■ ■ 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.

■ KILMORE. Kilmore Bakery. 54 Sydney St.

■ 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.

Aydin, Mahmut Bouwmeester, Matthew Chambers, Shaun Choudhary, Sahil Christie, Corey Clegg, Ricky Clifford, Simone Crisfield Wilson, Rebecca Currell, Ernest Currie, Scott Deakin, Shania Dean, James Doyle, Jamie Evans, Stephen Fereday, Troy Michael Gates, Tracey Gillard, Michael Glazebrook, Corey Grant, Aaron Grant, Travis John Hancy, Paul Harris, Bradley Hermiz, Martin Basil Hopkins, Connah Jacobs, Ashley Jones, Brendan Kandasamy, Kisokumar Karajanov, James Lim, Christopher Matthews, Valentina May, Brandon Mazzarella, Con Mcavoy, Declan Mcgrane, Shelby Mcloud, Trent John Mcnally, Darren Meers, Kylie Micallef, James Francis Miller, Reece Moloney, Joel Newbould, Chris Nunn, Mason Martin Paye, Yeaplay Pearson, Jayde Petronio, Jaimie Dean Pullin, Joshua Rodgers, Christopher Sanderson, Mathew Sevenich, Darren Singh, Prabjot Smith, Melissa Strnak, Ivan John Swanwick, Belinda Tant, Christopher Thomas, Corey Trott, Sherrie Wallace, Simon Wilson, Bailey Zammit, Paul Friday, April 4

Riders will be able to get tips and enjoy jaw-dropping stunts from dirt jumps experts, as well as take advantage of an onsite mobile bike repair service. There will also be a barbecue, creative face-painting and giveaways.

City of Whittlesea Mayor, Cr Aidan McLindon, said: “We’re incredibly excited to officially launch the Doreen Dirt Jumps and provide a space where local riders can push their limits and enjoy this growing sport.

“This new track is a direct response to the passion and enthusiasm we’ve seen from our community, particularly young riders eager for more outdoor activities.

“By investing in these new facilities, we’re helping to create a vibrant, active community where people of all ages can come together and have fun.

“The dirt jumps track in Doreen is an exciting recreational space for families to enjoy the outdoors.”

■

■

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

■

■

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

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

■ ■ LILYDALE. Lilydale Newsagency. 237 Main St.

■

■ ■ ■ MILLGROVE. Licensed Grocery. 3043 Warburton Hwy.

■

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

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

■ ■ SEVILLE. Wooworths Seville. 568 Warburton Hwy.

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

■

■ ■ ■ WARBURTON. Bakery. 3415 Warburton Hwy.

■ ■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook General Store. 36 Main Rd.

■ ■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook Hotel. 15 Main Rd.

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

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

■

■ 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.

■ 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.

■

■ ■ ■ ■ 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.

Mocenigo, Adam Mudd, Eric Shawn Stocks, Jonathon Mansfield Magistrates’ Court Wednesday, April 2 Aliu, Erjan Balzan, Lionel Barden, Jacob Breier, Jessica Britton, Gregory Clarke, Duane Dietrich, Daniel John Dowling, George Howard Fallon, Daniel Shaun Gall, Steward Gogoll, Jake Grundy, Benjamin Jones, Jessica Jones, Wyatt Macdougall, Max Robert Murphy, Ben Pilcher, Aaron Michael Pitt, Andrew Rooks, Tony Rowan, Scott Santori, Robert Seamer, Courtney Shakes, Olivia Matilda Struthers, Scott Trellu-Coker, James Henri Wagenknecht, Kaylah-Jane Wagg, Ashley John Yehia, Hasan

The event will be from 10am-12 Noon at Painted Hills Recreation Reserve, 160W Painted Hills Rd, Doreen.

Bridge closure

■ Nillumbik Council is undertaking repairs this weekk at Monash Bridge in Hurstbridge Guard rails will be repaired and moulded concrete posts reinstated. The brick abutment and safety barriers damaged last year will also be repaired during this time.

Work was due to commence yesterday (Tues., Mar. 25) and is expected to be completed by Friday, April 4.

“Due to heritage restrictions these works are only to replace the damaged sections likefor-like,” said a Council representative.

OPn weekdays during the repair hours of 9.30am-3pm, the bridge will be closed to traffic. There will be signage on-site.

Motorists are being asked avoid the area during these hours and to seek an alternate route.

● ● ● ● ● The stolen boat.

Photo: Victoria Police

PROTECTION FOR BUSHRANGER’S TREE

●

● After vandalism attacks, Nillumbik Council is working to save Bushranger’s Tree at Hurstbridge.

■ Nillumbik Council is working towards retaining the historically significant Bushranger’s Tree in Hurstbridge , also known as Burke’s Tree, ollowing vandalism.

Bunjil Ward’s Cr Naomi Joiner said the tree holds significant value for the local community.

“While it has a dark history, the tree is highly valued within the Hurstbridge community and an important part of the township’s story,” Cr Joiner said.

The tree was named after bushranger Robert Burke, who was found guilty of murdering local man Henry Hurst and sentenced to death by hanging.

In recent years, Nillumbik Council’s arborists have worked to improve the tree’s health, addressing compacted soil that restricted oxygen, water and nutrients.

“The tree responded well, growing new foliage. However, during routine inspections, arborists noticed its leaves turning brown. Further investigation revealed a bore hole in the trunk, indicating an act of vandalism had occurred,” said a Council representative.

“Due to the tree’s historical significance, Council’s arboriculture team has applied for a planning permit to reduce the outer limbs and retain the remaining tree.

“Additionally, Council will commence streetscape improvements in Hurstbridge next week to rejuvenate the historically significant roadside reserve where the tree stands.

“These improvement works will include a new garden bed featuring indigenous plants and canopy trees along the southern end of the reserve, restoring greenery and biodiversity.”

Mayor Cr John Dumaresq reaffirmed Council’s commitment to protecting the site.

“We will work with the local community to enhance and celebrate this important location. Through ongoing maintenance, we’ll ensure its significance is preserved for generations to come,” Cr Dumaresq said.

Local People

Heidi is winner

■ Bundoora Homestead Art Centre has announced that artist Heidi Schoenheimer as the recipient of the A1 Darebin Art Salon Exhibiting Prize 2025.

Heidi, who resides in the City of Darebin, was awarded this prize out of 149 entries at the exhibition opening event on Saturday, March 15.

As recipient of the Prize, Heidi will receive a Solo Exhibition at Bundoora Homestead Art Centre in 2026.

The A1 Darebin Art Salon is Darebin's largest community visual arts prize and exhibition, featuring remarkable artworks by artists who live, work, study or base their creative practice in the City of Darebin

With a wide variety of artistic disciplines - including painting, drawing, photography, textiles and mixed media - exhibited in a salon-style hang, the A1 Darebin Art Salon is an inclusive and accessible creative expression generated by our community.

Heidi’s winning painting, Tammy's, depicts a shop at the Preston Market: an icon of the municipality.

Local News

Mayor calls for Royal Commission

● Whittlesea Mayor Cr Aidan McLindon has called for a Royal Commission into Local Government. He appeared on the Outsiders TV program on Sky News.

■ Cr Aidan McLindon, Whittlesea Mayor, appeared on national television on Sunday (Mar. 23), callingf for a Royal Commission into the local government.

Cr McLindon - who has been locked out of Whittlesea by municipal CEO Craig Lloydsaid he would be calling on both major politicial parties to follow through with an inquiry into the structure of Victoria’s 79 municipalities.

Cr McLindon was appearing on the Outsiders TV program on Sky News. The show is currently co-hosted by editor of The Spectator magazine Rowan Dean, The Friday Show host Rita Panahi, and The Daily Telegraph opinion editor James Morrow.

Cr McLindon later said: “It’s been one month now since my access to the council precinct has been restricted.

“This is a questionable attempt to suffocate democracy which has now set a dangerous precedent for all elected representatives.

“Over the past few weeks, councillors and mayors from across Victoria, NSW and Queensland have contacted me in support and have advised me that this type of behaviour in the local government sector is a widespread problem (but not to this extreme).

“It is presenting to be a systemic problem in Victoria as a result of the Andrews Labor Government’s intentionally undermining Local Government Act of 2020.

“Today I called for a Royal Commission into the Victorian local government sector as it is my firm belief that the ‘processes’ in place are being exploited and corrupted across Victoria

“This is being enabled throughout the 79 councils at varying degrees. All CEOs and highlevel bureaucrats should be put on notice that the status quo will not be accepted by the people who pay their wages. ‘

“If there is nothing to hide, there is nothing to worry about.

“If we want to protect and restore democracy in Victoria we must start with the foundations of the pyramid - local government,” Cr McLindon said.

Good Happens

■ The Municipal Association of Victoria, the peak body representing Victoria’s 79 councils, has launched its ‘Make Good Happen’ Federal Election campaign, signalling the local government sector’s five highest priorities ahead of the federal election.

“All councils across Victoria are wanting to partner with the federal government to meet housing demand, fix potholed roads, deliver energy transition commitments, fortify our critical infrastructure to withstand fires, floods or storms, and promote active local democracy and cohesive communities,”

MAV CEO Kelly Grigsby said.

“With all of these challenges upon us, there has never been a more important time to advocate on behalf of our communities for policies, initiatives and investments that will help build a resilient and sustainable Victoria,”

Ms Grigsby said.

The MAV campaign will showcase best practice programs and initiatives that can be replicated state and nationwide and call for supportive policy and funding.

New Aussies pledge loyalty

■ Mitchell shireresidents have officially become Australian citizens after they pledged their loyalty at Mitchell Shire Council’s citizenship ceremony at Broadford on Monday -Mar. 24).

The day saw individuals and entire families receive their citizenship in ceremonies conducted by Mitchell Shire Mayor Cr John Dougall.

The citizenship ceremony represents the final step in the journey for many new Australians.

Mitchell Shire Council conducts citizenship ceremonies throughout the year, welcoming more and more residents to our country.

Victoria Pictorial

Balwyn Nostalgia Collection

● ● Early photo of homes at Balwyn

● ● ● ● Balwyn Road, Balwyn. 1939.

● Balwyn Cinema, 1974

● ● ● ● Whitrehorse Rd, looking west, Balwyn, 1989

● Balwyn Junior Football Club. 1917

● ● ● ● Balwyn/Deepdene, looking west. 1917

Inglis’s Surgery, Balwyn, 1927

● ● ● ● Balwyn Road, North Balwyn. 1966

Enivironment

Clean Up Wrap

Feedback on Alex. East plan

■

Murrindindi Shire Council is calling on the Alexandra community to provide feedback on the proposed options for the Alexandra East Development Plan.

This follows the formation of a Community Reference Group late last year, where 12 local residents, representing the diverse aspects of the Alexandra community, were appointed to help shape the direction of the plan.

Local background

■ Strathbogie Council’s new CEO Rachelle Quattrocchi (see report, this page) has a strong personal connection to the municipality, with family ties to the region. She welcomes the opportunity to return and contribute to the community she holds dear.

“As Chief Executive Officer, I aim to put the people of Strathbogie Shire at the centre of everything we do, ensuring exceptional service delivery and strong community outcomes,” Ms Quattrocchi said.

●

●

●

● Murrindindi Council officers

Peter Hayward, Sue McNair, Rob Skinner and Vee Scott helping to Clean Up Australia.

■ Community members and Murrindindi Shire Council joined forces for Clean Up Australia Day events across Murrindindi Shire in early March.

Local events were held on Sunday, March 2, in Eildon, Glenburn, Kinglake West, Koriella, Molesworth, Taggerty, Toolangi and Yea , with a dedicated staff clean-up on Monday, March 4, at Acheron Cutting and surrounding roadsides near Alexandra.

Murrindindi Council supported volunteer clean-up event organisers by providing bins and vouchers for its Resource Recovery Centres.

“We also reimbursed groups up to $100 for refreshments, provided the event was held on public land and registered on the Clean Up Australia Day website,” a Shire representative said.

“Council would like to thank the volunteers from Kinglake, Flowerdale, Strath Creek, Home Creek Spring Creek, Homewood and Cathedral Landcare Groups, and Friends of Marysville Walks for their outstanding efforts in cleaning up our Shire.” Council’s Sustainability and Assets Portfolio Councillor Sue Carpenter said, “Every year volunteers, community groups and schools take part in Clean Up Australia Day across Murrindindi Shire, and I want to sincerely thank all who contributed to cleaning up our Shire this year.

“A wide variety of rubbish and recyclable materials were collected this year, including tyres, window frames, tent poles, vapes, cigarette lighters, car parts, shoes, beds (for both people and pets) and much more.

“The dedication of Murrindindi Shire volunteers has made a real difference to our environment, and I look forward to seeing even more volunteers next year.

“It’s important to be environmentally conscious year-round and avoid littering or illegal dumping. Volunteer groups would be thrilled if there were no waste to clean up. If you come across dumped rubbish please report it to the Environment Protection Authority by calling 1300 372 842, or by using the Snap Send Solve App or website,” Cr Carpenter said.

$2.7m project

■ Mitchell Shire Council is delivering a significant upgrade to Darraweit Rd in Wallan.

The $2.7 million project will see the section between Acacia Way and Roulston Way upgraded including underground drainage, kerbing, and repairs to road pavement to ensure a safer and more durable road for residents, businesses, and visitors.

Works set to begin in April and be completed by late 2025.

The main road upgrade works will follow, commencing in June, with completion anticipated in late 2025, subject to contractor availability and weather conditions.

During the works, traffic management measures will be in place to ensure the safety of road users and construction crews.

Residents and motorists should expect some delays, and Mitchell Council asks that all road users abide by the traffic controls in place.

Access to residents’ properties will be maintained throughout the construction period.

Murrindindi Council is now seeking feedback from the broader community to identify the best options to guide future development of 71 hectares of land in Alexandra’s major residential growth area.

“The focus of this stage is to gather input on various elements of the development plan, including how to achieve a diversity of housing that meets both current and future needs, foster community connectedness, improve access through roads and foot/cycle paths, and manage risks such as flooding and bushfire hazards,” said a Shire representative.

Community members are encouraged to participate in the process through several opportunities.

On Monday (Mar. 31), a drop-in session will be held at the Alexandra Shire Hall from 3pm to 5pm. This will give attendees the chance to review the proposed options, ask questions of Council staff and consultants, and provide feedback on the options.

A facilitated workshop will be held on Tuesday (Apr. 1) from 6.30pm to 8 pm. The workshop will feature presentations and table discussions to help gather more in-depth feedback on the development options.

Participants are encouraged to register for the workshop at theloop.murrindindi. vic.gov.au/aedp or by calling 5772 0333.

For those unable to attend in person, an online feedback opportunity will be available from April 2-21. Documents, frequently asked questions, and a feedback survey will be available at theloop.murrindindi.vic.gov.au/aedp

Feedback gathered in this stage will be used to refine the development options into a single draft Development Plan.

The draft AEDP will be made available for community feedback in May and June, with the final version expected to be presented to Council for adoption at the July meeting.

Murrindindi Council's Mayor and Red Gate Ward Councillor Damien Gallagher encouraged Alexandra residents and businesses to learn more about the AEDP and get involved by attending one of two upcoming community events.

"The Alexandra East Development Plan will help facilitate roughly 700 new housing lots over time on land east of Wattle Street, as well as areas around the Alexandra Hospital and the Menzies Services’ land north of the Goulburn Valley Highway.

“This will support our existing community with more housing options, including for those who want to downsize or young families who want to purchase their first home.

“It will also attract young families to our Shire, while making sure growth is sustainable and appropriate for Alexandra.

“Population growth, supported by additional housing, will also help us attract and retain essential services for our community.

“Initial feedback from the Community Reference Group indicated that they were very keen to see a plan that will support coordinated, sustainable growth that integrates well with the existing township.

“They would expect the plan to facilitate not only diverse housing but to also address issues like connectivity through footpaths and cycle paths and attractive open spaces that preserve large old redgum trees.

“Community members are encouraged to come along to two community events to learn more about this important project and to have your voice heard.

“Local knowledge is key to ensuring the AEDP meets the needs of Alexandra well into the future and that it protects and enhances Alexandra’s unique character,” Cr Gallagher said.

■ Strathbogie Shire Council has announced the appointment of Rachelle Quattrocchi as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Ms Quattrocchi brings more than 25 years of experience in local government, with a strong background in strategic leadership, community engagement, and service delivery across both rural and metropolitan councils.

Mayor Cr Claire Ewart-Kennedy expressed enthusiasm about the appointment, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Rachelle to the Strathbogie Shire team.

“Her extensive experience, leadership capabilities, and deep understanding of rural communities will be invaluable in driving positive outcomes for our region.”

Cr Ewart-Kennedy also highlighted the competitive nature of the recruitment process, noting that several highly experienced local government leaders were considered for the role.

“Rachelle’s proven track record in executive leadership, financial stewardship, and community-focused service delivery made her an outstanding choice for Strathbogie Shire Council,” she said.

Ms Quattrocchi has held executive leadership roles in major municipal organisations across Victoria and South Australia, most recently serving as Director of City Services at Manningham Council

“In this role, she provided strategic oversight across key areas, including City Assets, City Infrastructure, City Projects, and Sustainable Futures. She has also acted as CEO on numerous occasions, demonstrating her capability in executive leadership and governance.”

“This will be underpinned by good governance, meaningful community engagement, and trusted relationships with local businesses, industry, Traditional Owners, and the broader community.

“My focus will be on ensuring the financial sustainability of the organisation while strategically identifying opportunities that benefit our region economically, socially, and environmentally.”

Ms Quattrocchiwill officially commence her role as CEO on May 5.

A Shire representattive said: “Council extends its sincere gratitude to Interim CEO Tim Tamlin for his leadership and dedication during his tenure. His efforts have been instrumental in maintaining stability and ensuring the continued delivery of vital services to the community.”

YJ grid boost

■ The first community battery in the Yarra Ranges has been switched on in Yarra Junction, marking a significant step in strengthening the stability of the local energy grid and supporting renewable energy.

The project is the result of a partnership between Yarra Ranges Council and Indigo Power, with funding support from the Federal Government.

The Council partnered with Indigo Power to support the implementation of a 120kW/ 300kWh battery in Yarra Junction that aims to increase the grid stability of the local electricity network and bolster the resilience of local energy supplies, allowing more rooftop solar and electric devices to be connected to the local network.

Yarra Ranges Council Mayor, Cr Jim Child, said the battery will absorb excess solar power generated during the day and discharge renewable energy back into the grid during peak demand, reducing pressure on the network and improving energy resilience in the region.

“Community batteries like this one play a crucial role in making better use of locally generated solar energy,” said Cr Child

“By storing surplus solar power during the day, the battery enables households to draw on that energy when the sun isn’t shining— reducing pressure on the grid and increasing energy resilience.”

For Small Business

■ Nillumbik Small Business Week is back for its third year, running from May 26-30.

The week offers a dynamic program of free workshops and events designed to support, inspire, and empower small businesses across Nillumbik

Mayor Cr John Dumaresq said Small Business Week continues to play a vital role in supporting the Shire’s 6400+ local businesses.

"Our local businesses are the backbone of our community, providing over 16,000 jobs across the Shire,” Cr Dumaresq said.

“We are committed to supporting their growth through initiatives like Small Business Week, which offers a valuable opportunity for entrepreneurs to enhance their business acumen, explore innovative ideas, and network with like-minded individuals.

“This event is a fantastic chance to connect with fellow business owners, share experiences, and drive success in our local economy."

With the event selling out in both 2023 and 2024, early registration is essential.

The program of events includes: Daily Cash Flow to Long-Term Wealth, Harnessing AI as a Small Business, The Power of Brand Strategy, Beyond Survival Mode (networking event), and Green Business 101.

● ● Cr Damian Gallagher, Murrindindi Shire Mayor

New CEO at Strathbogie Shire

● ● ● ● Rachelle Quattrocchi

Regional Round-Up

Fund recipients

■ Six community groups have been awarded funding from Mansfield Council’s 2024-25 Outlying Communities Infrastructure Fund

The successful applicants and projects are:

■ Ancona Hall Committee Inc - $8270 for the Ancona Hall Safety and History Preservation Project.

■ Bonnie Doon Community Group Inc$11,500 for the “Meet and Greet” room upgrade at the Community Centre.

■ Merton Campdraft Club Inc - $18,150 to upgrade Merton Recreation Reserve’s Sport and Rec Facilities.

■ Delatite Valley Association Inc - $10,000 for a site survey and concept plan for the Merrijig Public Park.

■ Howqua Inlet and Macs Cove Community Group - $17,100 to upgrade the Macs Cove Community Noticeboard and install a shade sail over the community playground.

■ Jamieson Community Group - $6000 to install “post and rail” fencing at the Jamieson ‘Triangle’ at the entrance to the township.

Mansfield Council confirmed funding for three groups at the December 2024 Council meeting, and continued to work with the remaining applicants to help firm up their project proposals. All recipients were confirmed at the March 2025 Council meeting.

Mansfield Council offers the Outlying Communities Infrastructure Fund to support communities to develop or improve community facilities that enhance liveability and improve community resilience and connectivity Mansfield Shire’s outlying communities.

Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie congratulated the groups on their successful applications.

“We’re grateful to all those in our community who take the initiative to make a difference,” he said.

“Council is proud to support these initiatives. They make our Shire a better place to live. By partnering with community groups, we’re putting power back into the hands of our locals,” Cr Rabie said.

Grants are available every year, with applications open from July to October.

Delegated powers

■ New powers are intended to be delegated to Murrindindi Council officers, under a proposal due to be presented tonight (Wed., Mar. 26) at a Shire meeting at Alexandra: Amongst the new changes it is proposed that the:

■ Manager Development Services, Coordinator Environmental Health, and the Environmental Health Officer, be delegated new powers under the Food Act 1984 to:

• direct a proprietor of a food premises to revise or comply with a food safety program;

• suspend or revoke a registration if a proprietor fails to comply with the direction.

• refuse to approve an application for registration or renewal of a food premises.

■ The CEO, Director of Community Development, Manager Development Services, Coordinator Planning, Principle Strategic Planner, Senior Planner, Planning Officer and the Planning Compliance Officer be delegated the duty to keep Victorian Planning Provisions and other documents available to the public.

■ The CEO, Director Community Development, Manager Development Services, Manager Economic Development, Coordinator Planning, and the Principle Strategic Planner be delegated the power to decide to refuse to grant a permit if a relevant recommending referral authority objects to the grant or permit.

■ he CEO, Director Development Services and the Manager Development Services are delegated the power to apply to the Tribunal for a declaration under s.149B of the Planning & Environment Act 1987.

■ The CEO, Director Community Development, Manager Development Services, Coordinator Planning, Principle Strategic Planner, and the Senior Planner be delegated the duty to comply with a request from the Minister to provide contact details of any person required under the notice.

‘Tough bail law is weak’

■ Northern Victoria MLC Wendy Lovell has spoken in State Parliament the bail amendment bill, “the so-called ‘tough bail’ bill, of 2025.”

“The title of this bill says ‘tough bail’, but the closer you look at this bill, the weaker it gets.

“It should be the Bail Amendment (Weak Bail) Bill 2025,” said Ms Lovell.

“The so-called toughest bail test for repeat serious offenders is not even in this bill. The Allan Labor Government have failed to deliver on that promise that they gave, and now they are saying that any change for that will be delayed for months.

“The offence of committing an indictable offence whilst on bail is being reinstated. It will have no impact on raising the test for actually gaining bail.

“Previously a person charged with this offence faced an uplifted test to stay on bail, but this is not in Labor’s bill, and any change will be delayed for months.

“The offence of breaching bail conditions is being reinstated but in a weakened form, as contravention will not result in the offender facing a stronger bail test.

“People under the age of 18 years face no criminal sanction for breaching bail conditions, undermining the reason why bail conditions are imposed.

“Serious offences, including burglary and robbery, are not listed as schedule 1 or schedule 2 offences, meaning alleged offenders receive a presumption of bail and the weakest test to receive it.

“This bill is delayed and diluted; it is too little and it is too late. It is better than nothing, but it is certainly not a tough bail bill.

“This is a weak bail bill, a slap in the face to all Victorians who have suffered because Labor has lost control of crime,” Ms Lovell said.

Inadequate Telstra coverage

■ Large areas of Annabelle Cleeland’s Euroa electorate, particularly Redesdale, Pyalong, Euroa, Nagambie and Avenel, continue to experience inadequate Telstra coverage, which is the only provider available in so many regions.

“This week I wrote to the Federal Minister for Communications raising the urgent concerns my community has about the widespread telecommunications failures happening in the region.

“This issue has persisted for several years and has been made worse by weather events such as floods, storms and bushfires, all of which create significant risks to public safety.

“Disruptions have resulted in prolonged mobile and internet blackouts and have left residents unable to make emergency calls, receive critical updates and contact family and friends,” Ms Cleeland said.

When will ramp be fixed?

■ Northern Victoria MLC Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell has asked in State Parliament about the Seymour ramp on the Hume Freeway.

“My constituency question today is for the Minister for Roads and Road Safety, and my constituents ask when the rutting on the off-ramp from the Hume Freeway to the Goulburn Vally Highway at Seymour will be fixed – another week, another road that needs major repair,” Mrs Tyrrell said.

“The off-ramp from the Hume Freeway onto the Goulburn Vally Highway at Seymour has been a source of concern for my constituents for a very long time.

“The deep rutting on the bend of the exit is quite honestly dangerous, especially for trucks, who use this exit frequently.

“As a highly used off-ramp to a major highway, used thousands of times a day by trucks, cars, buses and motorcycles, it beggars belief that the damaged road surface has been ignored for so long.

“If it were a metropolitan off-ramp, it would have been fixed in weeks, if not days, but because it is a regional off-ramp, it seems to my constituents that its repair is not important to this city-centric government,” Mrs Tyrrell said.

Local Briefs

Rail line upgrade

■ Mitchell Shire Council has welcomed a Federal Election commitment by the Coalition of $2 million for a comprehensive scoping study into the duplication and extension of the Upfield rail line to Wallan

“This crucial investment will enable a detailed project plan to be developed, examining key infrastructure upgrades, technical feasibility, economic and social benefits, environmental impacts, and high-level cost estimations for the much-needed extension,” said a Council representative.

The funding will allow for in-depth planning on several key priorities, including:

■ Duplicating and upgrading the Upfield rail line between Gowrie and Upfield Stations to improve frequency, capacity, and reliability.

■ Reconfiguring the City Loop to separate the Upfield and Craigieburn lines, reducing congestion and improving service efficiency.

■ Extending and electrifying the Upfield line to Wallan , with new stations planned at Beveridge and Cloverton to support the region’s expanding population.

“The Upfield rail extension is expected to significantly ease congestion on the region’s roads, particularly the Hume Freeway, and provide better access to jobs, education, health services, and key economic hubs.”

The Northern Councils Alliance, comprising the municipalities of Mitchell Shire, Banyule, Darebin, Hume, Merri-bek, Nillumbik and Whittlesea, has strongly championed the project

As part of the funding arrangement, the money will be made available to a northern council, which will manage the project on behalf of the NCA

A contractor will be engaged to deliver the scoping study in collaboration with key stakeholders, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of the project’s feasibility and next steps.

Mitchell Shire Mayor Cr John Dougall said the NCA has been instrumental in highlighting the urgent need for improved public transport services to meet the demands of the region’s rapidly increasing population.

“The duplication and extension of the Upfield line is essential to ensuring our rapidly growing communities have access to reliable, efficient, and sustainable transport,” he said.

“A key element of this project is a train station at Beveridge that will support the rapidly occurring development in the area. This part of the project is ready to go and is urgently needed by our community. However, State or Federal Government funding is required to make it a reality.

“The northern growth corridor is one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, and this project will help unlock significant economic, social, and employment opportunities for our residents.

“This project will not only benefit Mitchell Shire but the entire northern region by providing high-quality public transport options and reducing our reliance on car travel.

“We look forward to working with all levels of government and key stakeholders to ensure this project moves forward as quickly as possible.”

Mitchell Shire Council says that it will continue to work with the NCA to advocate for additional funding for the next stages of the project, which will include detailed design work and construction planning.

Contract time

■ Murrindindi Councillors will tonight (Wed.) consider the letting of a $447,842 contract for Wilhelmina Falls Road - Reconstruction and Sealing.

The scope of works includes realigning a section of the road, preparing and sealing the surface, installing safety barriers to protect existing infrastructure and improving roadside drainage. These upgrades aim to enhance safety and usability for road users, particularly heavy vehicles.

Once completed, the works will extend the sealed portion of Wilhelmina Falls Road up to the Toolangi State Forest and Murrindindi Scenic Reserve, marking the boundary of the Council maintained road, says a report.

● ● Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell MLC

● ● Wendy Lovell MLC

● ● ● ● Annabelle Cleeland, Euroa MLA

ARSON CASE AT HASTINGS

■ Mornington Peninsula Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating after a ute was set on fire in Hastings.

It is understood two males attended the driveway of a service station on Frankston-Flinders Rd about 4.45am on February 4.

One of the males slid underneath the unoccupied parked ute and pierced the fuel tank.

He returned to the ute moments later to light the leaked fuel on fire, causing the vehicle to catch on fire.

The pair fled the scene and were last seen on Frankston-Flinders Rd

Detectives have released an image and CCTV of two males who may be able to assist with their enquiries.

One of the males was riding a scooter and is described as Caucasian in appearance, with a medium build, and wearing denim shorts, a grey t-shirt and no shoes.

The other male is also described

as Caucasian in appearance and with a thin build.

He was wearing black tracksuit pants with paint stains, a blue t-shirt, black neck scarf, a cap and black ankle socks. He was also not wearing shoes.

● ● The Australian Greens will push for a $12.5 million investment to help complete structural building works for the Australian National Academy for Music in the South Melbourne Town Hall.

People: Freemasons Victoria Grand Installation

● ● Thena Nadarajah and Yvonne Chan

● ● Don Reynolds and Mya G. Grayly

● ● Kharole Bascara and Khris Albano

● ● ● ● Bruce Carey and Jacki Wilson

● ● Deputy Grand Master Myles King

● ● ● ● Raymond Ng, Anthony and Anna Bucca, Matthew Henshall, Frank Foo

● ● ● ● Rod Segal, Simon Benedykt, Grand Master Peter Henshall, Geoff Foster

● ● ● ● Geoff and Ursula Paton

Photos: Frank Foo and Mya G. Grayly

The Whip

$¼M. MDMA SEIZED, 4 MEN ARRESTED

■ Police have seized more than a quarter of a million dollars’ worth of MDMA and arrested four men for allegedly manufacturing and trafficking drugs, possessing weapons, and stealing cars and a boat.

Detectives from the Caulfield Divisional Response Unit began an investigation into drug trafficking across Melbourne’s southeast.

This investigation culminated early on Thursday morning (Mar. 20), with the Caulfield DRU, Mornington Peninsula CIU, Moorabbin CIU and the Dog Squad conducting a series of warrants across Braeside, Hampton, Moorabbin, and Port Melbourne.

● ● Peter Jordan

■ Caught red-handed swiping an election campaign poster for Liberal candidate Amelia Hamer, Peter Jordan (husband of Kooyong MHR Monique Ryan) is now apologising for the political-crazy act.

““I unreservedly apologise for removing the sign — it was a mistake,” he said.

“I believed the sign was illegally placed but I should have reported my concerns to council.”

Dr Ryan also apologised.

A Liberal Party representative said: “ The Teals preach integrity in public but then behave like this when they think no-one is looking. Regretfully this is not the first time we’ve seen this sort of behaviour.

“It’s disappointing that we now need to consider how to best keep our property and volunteers safe when Monique and her husband are around,” the representative said.

‘Crime capital’

■ The Victorian Liberals are keeping up the pressure on the State Government about Melbourne becoming the “crime capital’ of the nation.

Crime statistics wer released last week, and local MPs have been distributing the figures of local meida outlets.

“They report since 2015, New South Wales has successfully reduced offences across four key categories from 122,107 to 97,553,” said Libs spokesman David Southwick.

“In sharp contrast, Victoria’s crime numbers in these categories soared from 131,140 to 176,729, with a difference of nearly 80,000 incidents.

“These figures, encompassing burglary, car theft, theft from cars, and retail theft, show that while both states had similar crime statistics a decade ago, Victoria is now facing unprecedented levels of offending.”

The statistics confirm Victoria is experiencing a significant crime surge, with leading law enforcement officials describing the situation as "totally unacceptable." In the past year alone, overall offending has surged by 16%, the highest year-on-year increase in the last decade, Mr Southwick said.

During a search at a home on Olive Street, Hampton, police allegedly located approximately 1kg of MDMA with an estimated potential street value of $250,000.

Quantities of cocaine, ketamine and steroids were seized, along with fraudulent identification and several prohibited weapons including an electronic stun device and butterfly knives. Police also seized a ballistics vest and multiple rounds of ammunition.

At a home on Ross St, Port Melbourne, investigators uncovered an imitation AK-47, quantities of cocaine, MDMA, multiple vials and packets of testosterone, as well as electronic devices.

Police seized two commercial pill press machines and other equipment consistent with the manufacture of drugs at a factory on GrahamDuff Boulevard Street, Braeside Police also uncovered 55 cannabis plants, GHB and ammunition.

At an automotive centre on Chesterville Rd, Moorabbin, police located two vehicles, including a Holden Commodore alleged to have been stolen from Dandenong two weeks ago, as well as a trailer and boat, believed to have been stolen from Carrum Downs in April last year.

Four men aged 18, 21, 22 and 53 were arrested:

■ A 53-year-old Hampton man was charged with trafficking and possessing drugs of dependence and equipment for manufacturing drugs, cultivating a narcotic plant, and possessing ammunition.

■ A 21-year-old Port Melbourne man was charged with possessing an imitation firearm, possessing cocaine and ecstasy, as well as four counts of possessing drugs of dependence. He was also charged with four counts of failing to provide assistance or information under warrant.

■ A 22-year-old man from Hampton was charged with possessing prohibited weapons and ammunition, and failing to provide assistance to police.

All three were bailed to appear in Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court on June 6.

An 18-year-old man also arrested at the Hampton address was released pending summons for weapons-related offences.

19-year-old case arrest

■ Missing Persons Squad detectives have charged a man as part of their investigation into the 2006 disappearance of Christopher Jarvis.

A 72-year-old Wangoom man was arrested and has subsequently been charged with murder. He was to face Warrnambool Magistrates’ Court on Monday afternoon.

A 61-year-old man was also charged in 2022 in relation to the incident and was sentenced earlier this month after pleading guilty to manslaughter. This week’s arrest follows Christopher’s disappearance in June of 2006.

The 38-year-old was last seen when he left the house he shared with his partner and stepchildren on Warrne Road in Wangoom at around 6am on Tuesday, June 13.

When he didn’t arrive at work, staff contacted Christopher’s partner about 7.30am. His car was located on fire at Thunder Point

450 offences on Hume Freeway

■ Victoria Police detected 450 offences, including 22 alcohol and drug impaired drivers during a weekend road safety blitz targeting high-risk driving on the Hume Freeway. Operation Radihus saw regional, and State Highway Patrol units saturate the freeway across the Wangaratta and Wodonga Police Service Areas, aiming to enhance road safety, enforce road rules, and deter dangerous driving through high-visibility enforcement.

The operation took place on Friday-Saturday (Mar. 21-22), with police establishing two major checkpoints at Glenrowan Rest Area and Bentons Hill Rest Area.

Point Cook hit-run

■ Police are appealing for information about a hit-run involving a child in Point Cook on Tuesday (Mar. 11).

It is understood the child was crossing the road on Parkwood Drive when he was struck by a vehicle about 6.15pm.

The car stopped for a moment, and then continued travelling on Parkwood Drive Miraculously, the 9-year-old boy sustained minor injuries.

Investigators have released CCTV and an image of a car and believe the driver may be able to assist with their investigation. It is described as a grey SUV, similar to a Mazda CX3. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash remains ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or with footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Theft at S. Wharf

■ Police are investigating a theft and assault at a shop in South Wharf

It is understood two offenders entered a store in a shopping centre on Convention Centre Place about 3.30pm on March 5.

Officers were told they briefly left, stood outside for two minutes, then returned and asked to try on puffer jackets.

A short time later, the two offenders left the store with the jackets, worth around $550 each.

One of the offenders assaulted a female staff member on the way out, pushing her to the floor. She was taken to hospital with minor injuries. The offenders ran from the scene.

One man is described as being of medium build, in his early 20s with short black hair and a full beard. He was wearing a black puffer jacket, black sweatpants and black runners. The other man, also believed to be in his early 20’s, is described as having short black hair with a rat’s tail.

Since 1969, the Melbourne Observer has been a trusted news source for Victorians.

These days the Melbourne Observer is available free, tucked inside all editions of The Local Paper, covering all Melbourne suburbs, the Mornington Peninsula and selected country areas.

As well as general news coverage, there is plenty of latest showbiz news, favourite columnists, and the mighty mega crossword.

The Melbourne Observer is available free weekly online, February-December. Free print copies are available fortnightly through a network of hundreds of outlets.

You can have the Melbourne Observer delivered free every week to your in-box. To arrange your free subscription, simply fill in the details at the form at www.FreePaper.com.au

Caroline Chisholm Catholic College Braybrook

Caroline Chisholm Catholic College offers a unique educational experience for secondary school students which is focused on nurturing the whole person through their spiritual, academic, social, emotional, and physical facets of development.

In their junior years, students learn in a single-sex environment which allows them to develop confidence and independence before transitioning to our co-educational senior campus in Years 10-12. This approach ensures students are well prepared for their future pathways while fostering a strong sense of identity and belonging. We are a vibrant learning commu-

Fact File

NAME: Caroline Chisholm Catholic College

ADDRESS: 204 Churchill Ave, Braybrook, Vic 3019

PHONE: 9296 5311

EMAIL: g.baseggio@cccc. vic.edu.au

nity which is guided by our FACE Values of Faith, Acceptance, Compassion and Excellence.

The College provides a supportive and daring environment where every student is encouraged to reach their full potential; to be inspired to contribute and lead with faith, wisdom, compassion, empathy, and commitment to the Gospel. Our Waa Awards celebrate achievements across academics, community, culture and sport, reflecting our commitment to developing well rounded individuals who contribute meaningfully to society.

In 2025, we welcomed Dr. Napoleon Rodezno as Principal, bringing over 25 years of leadership in Catholic education.

He works alongside our dedicated staff to ensure every student feels valued and supported. With state of the art facilities and programs that foster leadership, creativity, and resilience, we are committed to empowering students to become confident, compassionate leaders who shape the future with faith and excellence.

Holy Family School Mount Waverley

As Principal of Holy Family Primary School, I encourage our community to live out our School Vision through every interaction.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a Catholic Primary School Principal is the connections you develop with students, families and staff. The wellbeing of my staff and students is a priority. Everyone needs to feel safe and experience happiness to learn.

Catholic Education Week

March 16-23

Holy Trinity Catholic Primary School Sunbury

Fact File

NAME: Holy Family School Mount Waverley

ADDRESS: 250 Stephensons Rd, Mount Waverley, Vic 3149

PHONE: 9807 3300

EMAIL: jdavid@hfmw.catholic. edu.au

We have a welcoming, inclusive, calm and orderly school where everyone feels safe. This is supported by our classroom routines and Behaviour Curriculum.

I value the relationship our school has with our Parish Priest and parishioners. Our Mini Vinnies students support St Vincent de Paul by fundraising throughout the year.

Social Justice is more than bringing a ‘gold coin’ donation. Our Year 6 students give their time to help the younger students in our school by running clubs at lunchtimes.

At Holy Family School we have made changes to our class structure and pedagogy in the last 18 months.

■ Straight Classes (Prep-Year 6)

■ Science of Learning and Reading

■ Explicit Direct Instruction

■ Knowledge Rich Curriculum

■ Synthetic Phonics Program (PrepYear 2)

■ PhOrMeS (word reading, spelling and learning) Year 3-6

■ Wellbeing Program (Resilience Project)

I invite you to book a school tour via our website

Choosing the right school for your child to begin their learning journey is a significant step.

At Holy Trinity Catholic Primary School it is our strong desire that our motto “Faith, Hope and Unity” underpins who we are and how we educate your child.

Our vibrant school offers a welcoming and positive learning environment where we value and respect diversity.

NAME: Holy Trinity Catholic Primary School

ADDRESS: 146 Mitchells Lane, Sunbury, Vic 3429

PHONE: 0407 619 996

EMAIL: principal@htsunbury. catholic.edu.au

We nurture the wellbeing of each child and encourage them to be the best they can be for the world.

Holy Trinity provides an engaging learning environment; with a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum, having a strong focus on literacy, numeracy and social/emotional learning.

We seek to develop motivated, imaginative, curious and independent learners who demonstrate strong social values, leadership, resilience and self-esteem.

The joy of learning comes from the experience of belonging and success, where each child is at the centre of the learning.

Collaboration is fostered by engaging in solution-focused dialogue where all members of our community have a voice, feel valued and think innovatively.

A focus on our touchstones; having integrity, being optimistic, persistent, creative, collaborative and reflective are essential to children being confident and capable learners to thrive as active, faith-filled citizens in today's world.

● ● Dr Napoleon Rodenzo

● ● Krystine Hocking

Loyola College Watsonia

Loyola College is a vibrant and dynamic learning community located in Watsonia.

As Principal, I am proud to lead a school that is committed to striving for academic excellence, personal growth, and the development of wellrounded individuals grounded in faith and service.

As an Ignatian school, Loyola College is inspired by the Jesuit tradition, which emphasises education of the whole person.

Our dedicated staff work tirelessly to create a supportive and nurturing environment where every student is encouraged to achieve their poten-

Fact File

NAME: Loyola College

ADDRESS: 325 Grimshaw St, Wastonia, Vic 3087

PHONE: 9434 4466

EMAIL: luzekm@loyola.vic.edu.au

tial.

We offer a broad and balanced curriculum that challenges students academically while fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a passion for lifelong learning.

Beyond the classroom, our school offers a rich co-curricular program, including sport, performing arts, leadership opportunities, social justice initiatives and much more.

These activities enable students to develop their talents, build resilience, and form meaningful connections with their peers.

Our strong pastoral care program ensures that every student feels valued, respected, and supported throughout their educational journey.

Empowered to 'be more', our students' passion, creativity and courage inspire progress and lead toward a more inclusive future. Together a school community, we stand united in our commitment to growth and striving for human excellence!

I invite you visit Loyola College and experience our school first-hand. You can book a tour or find more information at www.loyola.vic.edu.au

Marymede Catholic College South Morang

As Principal of Marymede Catholic College, Mr. Timothy Newcomb is passionate about helping students grow into their best selves. “I believe really strongly in helping young people to be their best, and to do this with the invitation for them to understand our Catholic tradition; one of hope and love.”

Fact File

NAME: Marymede Catholic College

ADDRESS: 60 Williamsons Rd, South Morang, Vic 3752

PHONE: 9407 9000

EMAIL: Fleur.Bedford@ marymede.vic.edu.au

considered a career in medical research.

“But then I really felt a calling to work in education, where I could make a difference for young people. I love seeing students grow and learn new things – and if they have difficulties, I enjoy working with our amazing staff, who help students find ways to be their best version of themselves and discover their own unique pathways.”

Marymede is deeply committed to differentiated learning, ensuring every student is supported and challenged.

As a father of three daughters, Timothy understands the hopes parents have for their children. “It is important to me that we respect where each student is at in their learning, to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.”

Alison Leutchford Alison Leutchford Alison Leutchford

Alison Leutchford

Principal Principal Principal

Our Lady’s Primary School Surrey Hills

Annie Engellenner

Our Lady's Primary School is an inclusive and welcoming learning environment where all our students are provided with the opportunity to thrive both academically, socially, and emotionally.

Our small class sizes allow for relationships to flourish and personalised learning to occur every day.

The first thing that people notice when they visit our school is the warmth and confidence of the stu-

NAME: Our Lady’s Primary School

ADDRESS: 31 Erasmus St, Surrey Hills, Vic 3127

PHONE: 9898 7655

EMAIL: aengellenner@ olsurreyhills.catholic.edu.au

dents they meet, as they walk around the grounds.

Our students are inquisitive, interested and respectful and kind.

We enjoy a strong reputation for the excellent pastoral care of our students.

Our staff are wonderful role models who value the dignity and worth of each and every student and strive to create a positive learning environment in which the personal needs of all students are catered for. Students are encouraged to seek personal excellence and challenged to discover and develop their talents not only for themselves but in the service of others.

As a passionate leader and educator. with over 25 years of experience in schools and 8 as a Principal, I am committed to leading a school where the students sit at the heart of the decision-making process.

With the Staff of Our Lady’s School, I look forward to coming to know your child and trust that your association with our community will be a happy and positive experience for your whole family.

As a child, Timothy dreamed of playing cricket for Australia and later

With a thriving K-12 Campus in South Morang and a new Year 7-12 Campus in Doreen, Timothy is leading Marymede into an exciting future where students are, in the Way of Mary, empowered to grow, lead, and serve.

Our Lady of Fatima School Rosebud

Our Lady of Fatima is a small Catholic primary school that delivers evidence-informed programs in a warm and supportive community environment.

The school is situated in Rosebud on the Mornington Peninsula, approximately 85 km south of Melbourne, serving the Catholic communities of both Rosebud and Dromana.

Our School motto is ‘Dream, Believe, Achieve’ with a focus on meeting each child at their point of need. Student wellbeing is at the heart of what we do and our staff ensures that your child is supported to make the very most of their academic potential.

NAME: Our Lady of Fatima School ADDRESS: 16 Hinton St, Rosebud, Vic 3939

PHONE: 5950 0400

EMAIL: principal@fatima rosebud.catholic.edu.au

With an explicit and rigorous teaching program, our staff hold a common vision of academic success for all students where teaching capabilities and relationships are nurtured to support students’ academic results, spiritual development and wellbeing.

With an extensive campus, Our Lady of Fatima offers spacious and modern learning spaces, a dedicated specialist learning area, Hub, School Hall, substantial playgrounds and sporting fields, all located on a quiet street frontage that provides a sense of privacy and security for our students and families.

Working together in partnership is of utmost importance to our school, where together we build the highest possible level of care and trust between students, staff and families. We place learning at the centre of our everyday encounters, while ensuring that a strong sense of wellbeing and community is maintained.

Join us for a personal tour at Our Lady of Fatima, where every day is an open day!

● ● ● ● Alison Leutchford

● ● ● ● Timothy Newcomb

● ● Sarah McDermott

Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School Bayswater

Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School, located in Bayswater, Victoria, is a coeducational Catholic institution serving students from Prep to Year 6. Established in 1965, the school has a rich history of providing quality education underpinned by Gospel values.

The curriculum at Our Lady of Lourdes is comprehensive, offering specialist programs in Italian, Music,

Fact File

NAME: Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School

ADDRESS: 22 Orange Grove, Bayswater, Vic 3153

PHONE: 9729 3411

EMAIL: rwilliams@olbayswater. catholic.edu.au

Art/Wellbeing and Physical Education.

Since 2016, Ross Williams has served as the principal of Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School. W ith over two decades of experience in Catholic primary education in Melbourne's outer eastern suburbs, Ross is dedicated to leading a learning community that supports families and fosters student development.

Under his leadership, the school has maintained a strong focus on student wellbeing, inclusiveness, and academic excellence.

Mr. Williams emphasises the importance of community engagement, striving to know each child and their family personally.

Under his guidance, Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School continues to be an active and important part of the Our Lady of Lourdes parish community.

You are warmly invited to attend our Open Days or to book a tour with the principal to learn more about why Our Lady of Lourdes School is a wonderful learning environment for all children.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Ringwood

● Our Lady of

Our Lady of Perpetual Help is a welcoming Catholic Primary School in Ringwood, with a proud history of over 90 years.

Our school is a place where students thrive in their learning, grow in faith, and build a strong sense of community.

We focus on academic excellence, spiritual development, service to others, and helping each child grow personally.

We believe in treating everyone with respect, kindness, and celebrating what makes each person unique.

At Our Lady’s your voice, your story, and your identity are important. We are committed to creating a community where everyone, no matter their background or beliefs, feels val-

Our Lady of Mount Carmel School Sunbury

As Principal of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Primary School, Ihave been able to bring a wealth of experience, dedication, and a deep sense of community to the school.

With a passion for Catholic education, I am committed to nurturing the spiritual, academic, and personal growth of each student, ensuring they flourish in a supportive and faith-filled environment.

Having served in Catholic education for 35 years, I believe in fostering a strong partnership between staff, students, and families to create a positive, inclusive atmosphere.

At Our Lady of Mount Carmel, we aim to cultivate not only knowledge but also Catholic values that help students become compassionate, responsible citizens, who strive to be the best they can be for our world.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Primary

Fact File

NAME: Our Lady of Mount Carmel School

ADDRESS: 53 Macedon St, Sunbury, Vic 3429

PHONE: 9740 7344

EMAIL: jfreeman@olmcsunbury. catholic.edu.au

School is 165 years old and was the first Catholic school in Sunbury.

Our school has continued to evolve, embracing innovative learning strategies while maintaining its strong Catholic traditions.

We emphasize the importance of encouraging students to explore their talents—whether in the classroom, through the arts, or on the sports field.

Our mission is to ensure that each child feels valued and supported on their journey, and that they leave with a strong sense of purpose and faith.

In addition to my role as principal, I am an active member in the wider community, fostering connections that help enrich the school’s educational offerings and social outreach programs.

My vision for the school is one of continued growth, where students are empowered to make meaningful contributions to the world around them.

When not leading the school, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, continually reflecting on how to best support the future of Catholic education.

Our Lady of Sion College Box Hill

NAME: Our Lady of Perpetual Help

ADDRESS: 2 Wilana St, Ringwood, Vic 3134

PHONE: 9870 7227

EMAIL: principal@olringwood. catholic.edu.au

ued, included, and empowered.

Our academic programs are designed to challenge and support each child, helping them reach their full potential. Our dedicated teachers and staff are here to guide and encourage your child’s success. Small class size caters for all needs

We warmly invite you to visit us and take a tour of our school!

As Principal of Our Lady of Sion College, it is a real privilege to walk alongside our students in some of the most formative years of their lives. Our supportive and inclusive community works to ensure that students are named and known and we aim to create diverse opportunities to help students feel a strong sense of belonging, which in turn will motivate them to take on challenges in their learning.

We enjoy wonderful facilities and resources that our students value, and as an all-girls’ school, we foster an environment where students can fully focus on their academic and personal growth.

We find that our students are confident in exploring their interests and developing a passion for learning and with the full attention and support of dedicated teachers, they are provided with opportunities to reach their potential.

Our goal is to inspire a love for

NAME: Our Lady of Sion College ADDRESS: 1065 Whitehorse Rd, Box Hill, Vic 3128

PHONE: 9890 9097

EMAIL: ISztalSusman@sion. catholic.edu.au

learning, encourage curiosity and critical thinking, and help students strive for personal excellence.

We also nurture a strong sense of compassion and justice, and the belief that they can make a positive impact in the world.

Sion is a wonderful place where people can be themselves and can build a great future.

Ashanti Capitani, Year 7

I’m grateful to have found such a supportive and friendly community.

Amani Ilango, Year 7 You feel ready to learn, grow and be innovative.

Olivia Wall, Year 7

● ● ● ● Ross Williams

● ● Julie Freeman

Perpetual Help

Sacre Couer Glen Iris

As an educational leader, with over 35 years of experience, my commitment and resolve to delivering excellent education to young people have remained unwavering.

I embarked on my vocation, motivated by the fundamental belief that I absolutely do have the responsibility and the power to bring hope to young people, to create possibilities for them and to provide them with the opportunities and means to create purposeful and meaningful lives.

For me, my educational philosophy has always translated into a moral imperative, based on delivering a student-centred education with learning and teaching practices preparing students to be future-ready.

My own experience of education was transformative. Exemplary educators throughout my life championed and challenged me to pursue excellence; each of them evoked an enduring passion for learning and my education was one which was profoundly relational, engaging my heart and mind equally.

Hence, my desire to educate and offer my students every opportunity to grow as whole people. I

Fact File

NAME: Sacre Coeur

ADDRESS: 172 Burke Rd, Glen Iris, Vic 3146

PHONE: 9835 2700

EMAIL: reception@sac. vic.edu.au

genuinely believe in the transformative power of education and I believe in the generative possibilities for the individual and for society, both at a local setting and within a global context, when students’ passions are ignited.

Having majored in English and Classics, my early teaching career saw me impart a love of literature and writing.

Additionally, I was appointed to middle leadership roles relatively early in my career, sparking in me a desire to lead beyond the classroom.

Over the years, I have undertaken a wide range of middle and senior leadership roles in the areas of curriculum, wellbeing, faith development and senior organisational management.

My journey to principalship has been driven by a strong sense of purpose and an insatiable desire to pay it forward – courage and stoicism have guided me on my path, the result of which has been this most rewarding and fulfilling opportunity to be custodian, albeit for a mere chapter, in the rich narrative of Sacré Cœur.

St Aloysius North Melbourne

Fact File

NAME: St Aloysius North Melbourne

ADDRESS: 31 Curran St, North Melbourne, Vic 3051

PHONE: 9325 9200

EMAIL: irvinem@aloysius. vic.edu.au

St Aloysius College is excited to announce the development of its new Boundary Road Senior Years’ Campus. Set to open in the 2026 school year, the six-level, purpose-built facility will replace the current gymnasium site.

Designed with the future of VCE in mind, the campus will feature cutting-edge collaborative learning spaces, science classrooms, administration areas, and a rooftop terrace.

Sacred Heart Primary School Yea

Welcome to the community of Sacred Heart Primary School Yea. Our learning community provides the very best in Catholic education for the 21st Century.

All children are valued and are given opportunities to grow as fully flourishing lifelong learners, in a safe and nurturing environment.

As a school in the Josephite tradition, Sacred Heart is a place where

Fact File

NAME: Sacred Heart Primary School Yea

ADDRESS: 5 The Pade, Yea, Vic 3717

PHONE: 5797 2723

EMAIL: office@shyea.catholic. edu.au

we are inspired by the faith and spirit of Australia’s patron saint, Mary Mackillop.

We strive to respond to the needs of the all in our community and reach out to our neighbours.

At Sacred Heart, we prioritise evidenced based practises including explicit instruction, high-impact teaching strategies, and a supportive learning environment personalised to individual student needs.

Our commitment to excellence in Literacy and Mathematics is complemented by rich learning experiences across all areas of the curriculum, including STEM, the Arts, and personal development.

Every child at Sacred Heart is empowered to have a knowledge and understanding of our ever-changing world, through providing a learning environment that gives children the opportunity to grow and develop skills that enable them to be curious and open-minded about the world around them, informed by a Catholic worldview.

We look forward to welcoming you to Sacred Heart.

St Francis Xavier Primary School Box Hill

NAME: St Francis Xavier

Primary School

ADDRESS: 1087 Whitehorse Rd, Box Hill, Vic 3128

PHONE: 9890 1108

EMAIL: enquires@sfxboxhill. catholic.edu.au

wonderfully diverse with many cultures bringing vibrancy and dynamism to our school.

We have a wonderful story in our patron saint, Francis Xavier. He was a risk taker, always keen to travel to new lands, learn new things and engage warmly with people.

His story inspires our staff and students to be eager learners, to embrace difference, find commonalities and push ourselves to new things.

A Journey of Excellence

A Journey of Excellence

St Aloysius College is a progressive, inspiring educational community committed to empowering students for success in a rapidly changing world.

Located in the heart of North Melbourne, the College offers a rich academic environment, with a focus on student wellbeing, student voice, and collaboration.

The school serves as a dynamic space where students engage in learning that challenges, inspires curiosity, and prepares them for life beyond school.

As part of the College Masterplan,

This new development reflects the College's commitment to providing students with exceptional facilities and an environment conducive to academic excellence.

Principal Mary Farah said, “Every school is the result of the cumulative effort of many, united by a shared purpose, hope, and dream. Every family carries its own aspirations, wishes, and dreams for their children. As a Principal, I see something truly remarkable happen where these two forces intersect. Where the dedication of a school community meets the hopes of families, we have a synergy where the exceptional becomes possible.”

It has been a thrill this year to launch our school vision - a caring faith community fostering welcome, inclusion and a love of learning.

This really sums up the essence of our beautiful school, St Francis Xavier. Situated in the eastern suburbs in the heart of Box Hill, our community is

We are driven by our four key values of trust, respect, forgiveness and care and these are the standards we hold ourselves daily.

We use research based approaches to learning and teaching with the needs of each student at the centre.

Our Wellbeing program wraps around everything we do ensuring our students are safe, secure, happy and ready to learn and flourish.

Our engaged parent comunity support us in many ways with many opportunities to be connected to the school and volunteer. Our school motto says it all - may happiness dwell here

● ● ● ● Adelina Melia-Douvos

● ● ● ● Sacred Heart Primary School

St Aloysius College

Fact File

St James Catholic Primary School Brighton

Dear Parents and Carers,

It is my privilege to welcome you to St James Catholic Primary School, where every child is known by name and given opportunities to flourish.

As a boutique style school for up to 260 students from Prep to Year 6, we foster a nurturing and enriching learning environment.

Our dedicated staff support stu-

Fact File

NAME: St James Catholic Primary School

ADDRESS: 6 St James Close, Brighton, Vic 3186

PHONE: 9596 4766

EMAIL: ccorio@stjamesbrighton. catholic.edu.au

dents’ academic, spiritual, social emotional, and wellbeing needs in alignment with the Victorian Curriculum.

As Principal, I have two wishes for you and your family on this journey.

For our students: For students: students:

May you come to school each day with the same excitement as your first day. May you always find joy in learning, make lasting friendships, and embrace both fun and challenges as you grow together.

For our parents and carers: parents and

As your child’s first educators, may you continue to encourage and support them in every success and challenge.

May we, as a school community, work in partnership to equip them with the knowledge, skills, and mindset to become responsible global citizens. Please feel free to contact me anytime. I look forward to working with you to ensure your child thrives at St James.

Warm regards, Carmelina Corio Principal, St James Catholic Primary School

St Joseph’s, Yarra Junction is a Catholic Primary School situated on 17 acres of beautiful bushland in the picturesque Upper Yarra Valley.

St Joseph’s provides an education that is holistic, pastoral and spiritual. At St Joseph’s we strive to achieve the fundamental values of Catholicism and cultivate the virtues of Faith, Hope and Love by developing a community centred on Christ in the world and in the Eucharist.

St Joseph’s Primary School also fosters the values of Respect, Responsibility and Resilience with a strong focus on developing the learner as a whole.

St Joseph’s embeds a Wellbeing Curriculum and an explicit teaching of Phonics, Literacy and Numeracy as well as a Daily Fitness Program. St Joseph’s is a Welcoming Community, fostering strong Parent Partnerships and Inclusivity. The school has multiple indoor and

St James, Vermont

St James Vermont is a medium-sized primary school with 350 students and 14 classes, including two classes per grade.

The school also boasts a farmyard featuring six chickens and two goats. Specialist subjects offered include Auslan, Physical Education, STEM, Performing Arts, and Visual Arts.

The vibrant school culture is evident as soon as you enter the grounds via our newly constructed administration building.

Students appear relaxed and cheerful, staff are friendly and approachable, and parents are actively involved, creating an environment where everyone genuinely enjoys each other's company.

Since taking on the role in 2018, Principal David Mutimer has been instrumental in nurturing a strong sense of community.

The school's Vision Statement, “At St James, together, we are Seeking the Spirit, Learning to Love, Loving to

Fact File

NAME: St James Vermont

ADDRESS: 51 Centre Rd, Vermont, Vic 3133

PHONE: 9874 1830

EMAIL: office@sjvermont. catholic.edu.au

Learn, and Living Life to the Full,” is central to the school’s ethos and guides all of David's decisions. He is highly respected and valued by the staff for his leadership and camaraderie.

David prioritises building lasting relationships with parents and families to effectively meet each student's needs and support them in reaching their full potential.

His goal is for every St James community member to experience a deep sense of belonging within the school.

Open Days: 24th March, 1st April, 7th May 2025

St Luke The Evangelist Primary School, Blackburn South

Fact File

NAME: St Jospeh’s School

ADDRESS: 40 Milners Rd, Yarra Junction, Vic 3797

PHONE: 5967 1183

EMAIL: nboyan@sjyarrajunction. catholic.edu.au

Welcome to our beautiful community of St Luke the Evangelist Primary School in Blackburn South.

I am so proud of what we offer our children, our families and our local community.

It’s a heartspace where every child is known and loved for their unique gifts.

We are a faith filled community that is uniquely Catholic but embraces all faiths.

We also honour the sacred land of the Wurundjeri people of the WoiWurrung language whose story we continue to explore…

We are not a super- big school

Fact File

NAME: St Luke The Evangelist ADDRESS: 38-56 Orchard Grove, Blackburn South, Vic 3130 PHONE: 9877 4023

EMAIL: principal@slblackburnsth. catholic.edu.au

and we love that! We make strong connections with our families because of their diverse cultural backgrounds and we work in partnership to develop the whole child.

This allows us to really focus on each child’s individual learning pathway.

Our Victorian based curriculum and programs are dynamic and engaging because of the outstanding teaching and support staff we have and the incredible learning spaces we continue to develop.

We are excited to be on the journey of evidence based explicit instruction which is grounded in extensive research.

Our children grow into happy, curious citizens of the world developing their own voice around their learning.

Child safety and wellbeing is prioritised and celebrated so that every child feels safe.

St Luke’s is where our children begin to make their own mark on the world.

I would love to show you around St Luke’s … l know you will be impressed

● ● ● Carmelina Corio

St Martin of Tours School Rosanna

Principal’s Message Principal’s Principal’s Message Principal’s

Welcome to St Martin of Tours School!

I am fortunate to be the Principal here, to ensure that the students in our care are engaged in their learning and growing in every aspect of their development.

Students learn when they feel safe and happy, and that’s the environment we create for them as a staff at St Martin’s School.

Our staff care about each student's wellbeing and are dedicated to the growth of every child.

About Our School About Our

At St Martin’s, we teach explicitly and encourage the students to discuss, think and apply their learning across

Fact File

NAME: St Martin of Tours School

ADDRESS: 2-12 Silk St, Rosanna, Vic 3084

PHONE: 8458 7500

EMAIL: alacey@smrosanna. catholic.edu.au

the curriculum.

Following the ‘Vision for Instruction’ model (MACS), we implement an evidence based direct instruction approach to learning across the curriculum, including a structured phonics approach to the teaching of reading in the P-2 area.

Whenever possible, we link Religious Education and Inquiry Learning, so that the students see faith as intertwined in life.

Our Specialist areas are enjoyed by the students and include PE, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, STEM and our LOTE is Italian.

Some of the highlights of our school include: Preparation of the students for the sacraments at Years 3, 4 and 6; a whole school Performance and a Visual Arts Show (Biennial); a fabulous Buddies program; Camps and excursions; Sports Days and Swimming, lunchtime activities and opportunities for Leadership roles.

I look forward to meeting you at a tour to share our educational approach and the range of opportunities we offer at St Martin of Tours School.

St Monica’s College Epping

St Monica’s College, Epping was established in 1964. We are a co-educational College based in the northern suburbs of Melbourne.

Our curriculum delivers education at the highest levels whilst ensuring our students personal development is fostered.

Students are supported by staff committed to ensuring every student can be their best.

As well as a modern curriculum, a diverse range of VET courses are offered including Allied Health where students are educated to work in all facets of medical and health areas.

STEM is a constantly changing area of education with relevant studies for students that prepare them for the modern workplace.

We continue to provide superior resources to facilitate learning in stateof-the-art buildings that are student focussed and embrace world’s best practice design.

St Oliver Plunkett School Pascoe Vale

Fact File

NAME: St Monica’s College

ADDRESS: 16 Davisson St, Epping, Vic 3076

PHONE: 9401 6659

EMAIL: PCocks@stmonicasepping.com

The College also offers a wide choice of sports supported by top level coaches committed to ensuring each student reaches their potential.

Our Performing Arts Faculty offers a range of dance, drama and music programs.

We also offer programs for accelerated learning students and special needs students.

At St Monica’s College, Epping we meet the diverse needs of students and ensure no student is left behind.

Our students all understand what it means to ‘Be Monican’.

Every morning, I arrive at school with a smile, ready to be part of the wonderful energy that fills our community.

Whether it’s chatting with families at the gate about footy games or family milestones, or watching our students dive into their learning at 9 am, it’s these moments of connection that make St. Oliver Plunkett Primary School such a special place.

Here at St.OPPS, our school is all about creating a warm, welcoming, and faith-filled environment.

Guided by Gospel values, we focus on love, respect, and compassion in everything we do.

Our goal is to inspire every child to reach their full potential—both

Fact File

NAME: St Oliver Plunkett School ADDRESS: 33 Landells Rd, Pascoe Vale, Vic 3044

PHONE: 9354 5130

EMAIL: principal@sopascoevale. catholic.edu.au

academically and personally— through a Christ-centered education.

Our passionate and dedicated teachers use evidence-based strategies to provide a high-quality education that meets each child’s needs.

We design learning experiences that are engaging, challenging, and tailored to help students thrive, especially in key areas like English and Mathematics.

Plus, our dynamic curriculum includes specialist programs in Visual Arts, Performing Arts, STEM, Physical Education, and Italian.

We know that every child is unique, and we take the time to build strong relationships to understand each student’s strengths, challenges, and interests.

This helps us provide the right support, so every child can grow and succeed in their own way.

At St. Oliver Plunkett, we’re not just about learning—we’re about nurturing children to grow in faith, knowledge, and kindness, preparing them to make a positive difference in the world.

● ● ● ● Angela Lacey

Delfina Pieri- Principal at St Pieri- Principal at

Delfina Pieri- Principal at St Pieri- Principal at Oliver Plunk Oliver Oliver Plunk

St Patrick’s School Murrumbeena

As the Principal of St. Patrick's School in Murrumbeena, I warmly welcome you to our school, where we are committed to discovering and nurturing your child's future.

As a Catholic community, at St. Patrick’s we believe that every child is loved by God and unique.

Our goal is to create a supportive and stimulating environment that promotes both academic growth and spiritual development.

Fact File

NAME: St Patrick’s School, Murrumbeena

ADDRESS: 3 Dalney Rd, Murrumbeena, Vicv 3163

PHONE: 9569 7487

EMAIL: jsoulsby@spmurrumbeena. catholic.edu.au

Our team of experienced and passionate teachers work to foster a nurturing community where students feel valued and confident in their abilities.

We offer a comprehensive curriculum that spans foundational literacy and numeracy, the arts, science, physical education and religion.

Beyond academics, we emphasise strong values, instilling in our students the importance of being respectful, compassionate, and responsible members of their community.

Our school’s commitment to excellence is reflected in our modern facilities, technology, and resources, ensuring that every student is wellequipped to succeed.

Choosing St. Patrick’s School means investing in a bright and promising future for your child. Join us as your child flourishes in an environment that prioritises growth, values, and the full development of their potential. I encourage you to visit St Patrick’s to, “Discover Your Child’s Future”.

St Peter’s Primary School Bentleigh East

St Peter’s Primary School, Bentleigh East is a welcoming and vibrant Catholic community where faith is at the heart of everything we do.

Steeped in 160 years of rich history, the school provides a quality Catholic education, supporting students to live out Gospel values in all aspects of their life and providing opportunities for all members of the school community to thrive.

St Peter’s graduates are kind, respectful and thoughtful, and many remain connected to the school community, with generations of families experiencing a St Peter’s education.

St Peter’s provides exceptional contemporary facilities, enabling students to engage in a comprehensive curriculum and participate in learning that supports them to question, critique, take risks and understand our ever changing world.

Creating a sense of connection and belonging, students at St Peter’s

St Paul The Apostle Catholic Primary School, Doreen

St Paul the Apostle Primary School Doreen is a thriving faith and learning community, inspired by the teachings of Jesus Christ and the life of St Paul the Apostle.

As foundation principal, I have cherished the opportunity to work alongside our dynamic staff and families to shape a welcoming, inclusive, and innovative school culture that prioritises student wellbeing and aca-

Fact File

NAME: St Paul The Apostle Catholic Primary School

ADDRESS: 80 Bassetts Rd, Doreen, Vic 3754

PHONE: 9216 2000

EMAIL: office@spadoreen. caholic.edu.au

demic excellence.

At SPA Doreen, we believe in the power of partnership between school and families, fostering strong relationships that support the growth of every child.

Together, we create a nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to achieve their full potential.

With an emphasis on thinking, our curriculum is rich, rigorous, and relevant, catering to the intellectual, social, emotional, and spiritual needs of our students.

Grounded in a Culture of Thinking, aligned with MACS Vision for Instruction, we empower learner voice and agency and a deep love for learning.

As lifelong learners, staff model curiosity, optimism, and collaboration. With an emphasis on critical creative thinking, digital technologies, and global citizenship, we prepare children for an ever-changing world.

At SPA Doreen, we create a safe, engaging, and dynamic learning environment where every child is empowered to flourish and succeed.

St Simon The Apostle Primary School, Rowville

Fact File

NAME: St Peter’s Primary School Bentleigh East

ADDRESS: 842 Centre Rd, Bentleigh East, Vic 3165

PHONE: 9575 0909

EMAIL: jward@spbentleigheast. catholic.edu.au

are empowered to make thoughtful choices and live a life filled with purpose and wonder.

Led by Principal Jane Ward, St Peter’s staff collaborate to ensure that student needs are well catered for, with a range of intervention and extension opportunities.

At St Peter’s, we believe that when students are confident, resilient and happy, they develop dispositions that prepare them to embrace future challenges and flourish in our complex world.

Ed Simons Executive Director of MACS

St Simon the Apostle Primary School is a vibrant learning community providing faith-centred education for the Rowville-Lysterfield area.

I am Tom Wursthorn, and as principal, I’m passionate about ensuring every child reaches their full potential through high-quality, evidencebased instruction.

At our school, we embrace explicit teaching practices, ensuring stu-

Fact File

NAME: St Simon’s Rowville ADDRESS: 2 Taylors Lane, Rowville, Vic 3178

PHONE: 9755 4222

EMAIL: Tom.Wursthorn@ssrowville. catholic.edu.au

dents receive clear, structured, and scaffolded lessons.

Our teachers use step-by-step instruction, modeling, guided practice, and independent application to help students master key concepts.

This approach provides clarity and confidence, especially in foundational literacy and numeracy skills.

We aim to nurture gratitude, empathy, mindfulness and strong connections within our community. We want our students to flourish and reach their potential by knowing and using their strengths and building on them.

We want our students to identify and follow their passions and learn how to make a difference. We aim to bring out the best in each student, enabling all to achieve the highest goals possible.

I am honored to lead this incredible school community, where faith, learning, and evidence-based teaching come together to create lifelong learners.

Visit our website to make a booking for a school tour or conversation with the principal

● ● Joanne Soulsby

● ● ● ● Phil Doherty

● ● Tom Wursthorn

● ● ● Jane Ward

Established 1969

EDITORIAL COMMENT

Unconvincing Councillors at Whittlesea

The dysfunctional Council at the City of Whittlesea was at its least convincing about govcernance and transparency last week after it locked out the public from its monthly meeting.

Ten of the 11 Councillors met online, as dozens of fuming excluded ratepayers watched a video of proceedings from outside the grand municipal buildings at South Morang.

The public members had come to watch local government in action, but they were instead literally left on the streets.

The Mayor, Cr Aidan McLindon, did not attend the Council meeting. McLindon has been banned from the Council premises by $400,000-a-year Council CEO Craig Lloyd.

Cr McLindon did address the members of the public in person. He called for CEO Lloyd, and State Government-appointed Monitors Peita Duncan and Jude Munro to stand aside.

Inside the building, the Councillors were claiming that they were the victims.

In a ham-fisted performance, the mostly new and inexperienced Councillors read (badly) from prepared scripts, claiming that ‘misinformation’ had been fed to the public.

Time after time, they had to be directed by CEO Lloyd on what to do next.

Their claim of ‘misinformation’ was met largely with disbelief. Here were Councillors claiming that social media and major media outlets had misinformed the public about controversy-after-controver-sary at the troubled municipality which has had six CEOs in a handful of years. A number of the CEOs had been sacked.

And yet throughout this entire sorry chapter, the public has not heard a word from the Council.

There has been no statement about how the elected Mayor has been banned from doing his job.

There has been no reply (not even an acknowledgement of recipt) of this newspaper’s invitation for the Council and the Councillors to have their say.

If they are too timid to report to their stakeholders, the Councillors deserve to be thrown out. Local Government Minister Nick Staikos has also remained silent.

Unelected CEO overrules Mayor

Sir, I read your column/article in The Local Paper, with interest, I appreciate your efforts in highlighting that an un-elected officer can over rule the Mayor (‘Showdown’, Northerm Suburbs Edition, Regional Edition, Mar. 19).

Going back in time, Murrindindi Council voted 70,7-0 to abandon the Kinglake Cemetery at Blackwood Lane

Then under COVID rules the Council had a online stream,and the vote was lost 43.

Your masthead at the time acknowledged the Kinglake Cemetery had lost the vote twice. But was third time lucky for the Kinglake Cemetery Trust.

A cone of silence also prevailed at Murrindindi Council as to why four Councillors changed their mind. Then three of those Councillors left shortly afterwards as did the CEO, and others.

Keep up the excellent work.

- Nigel Head, by email

Open letter

Sir, Open Letter to Whittlesea Councillors.

Dear Councillors,

It is time to address you as the group of Councillors who are to represent us, the residents and ratepayers of the Whittlesea municipality.

I had planned to attend the Council meeting in the public gallery on Tuesday, March 18.

I was shocked to discover that your CEO Craig Lloyd had shut the meeting down and reduced it to online only.

A large crowd of unhappy ratepayers turned up outside the Council Chambers where your Mayor addressed them and explained the situation.

This CEO’s action and the blocking out of an elected Mayor is totally unacceptable, and a possible breach of the Local Government Act.

It is your collective responsibility to maintain a clear divide between the Council and management.

I call on you to take the action to have this CEO dismissed as he has brought Whittlesea Council into disrepute.

It is a laughing stock now in Victoria as a result of his meddling in the political realm which is your domain not his.

I have refrred to an old but still relevant part copy of an Municipal Association of Victoria document which clearly explains the clear divide between Councillors and management.

When either side transgress this divide strife surely follows.

Please take urgent action now to save the Council from further discredit by appointing an interim CEO who respects the political role of Councillors and the separate role of management.

The choice now is yours. - Ross Lee Doreen

● ● ● ● After both losing a parent to Parkinson's, Penny and Vicky are aiming to raise $2000 for Shake it Up.

Yarra Valley besties pulse, pike and plank to find cure

Sir,

Vicky and Penny have both lost a parent to Parkinson's disease Vicky is a respected and experienced pilates instructor in the Yarra Valley and Penny is one of her devoted clients

This April they are hosting a Pilates for Parkinson's event with the aim to raise funds for Shake It Up. They are expecting 50 participants.

Both Penny and Vicky are aware of the benefits of pilates for Parkinson's sufferers

The pilates session will be followed by lunch and bubbles at Punt Rd Winery, Coldstream, at 10.30am-11.15am on Saturday, April 26.

Penny and Vicky are encouraging the community to get behind the initiative and host their own P-themed fundraiser (pancakes, prosecco, puppies for Parkinson's) and raise vital funds for Parkinson's research.

Register to host an event at shakeitup.org.au

- Kyla-Rose Booth, by email

Biennial opens

Shortletters(nomore than200words)onlocal subjectsareinvitedfrom readers.

Emailto: editor@Melbourne Observer.com.au

25 Labor MP’s defy new leaders

■ Seventeen State Labor parliamentarians, including four Ministers, and eight Federal members attended a meeting last hight called by the old Victorian A.L.P. executive, condemned as bogus by the new executive.

Sir,

The highly anticipated TarraWarra Biennial 2025: We Are Eagles will open at TarraWarra Museum ofArt on March 29 until July 20, curated by Yorta Yorta woman, writer and curator Kimberley Moulton

The exhibition’s title We Are Eagles is derived from a speech given by activist Pastor Sir Doug Nicholls at the 1938 Day of Mourning — the seminal south-eastern First Nations political movement.

His speech called for equal rights and an end to colonial oppression, stating, “we do not want chickenfeed … we are not chickens; we are eagles.”

Anchored in this sentiment, the exhibition features works by 23 artists who centre regenerative practice and relational transcultural connections to land, object and memory.

Reflecting the Biennial’s commitment to identifying new trends in contemporary Australian art, this year’s iteration will showcase over 20 newly commissioned works.

Highlights of the exhibition include a new sound work by Wurundjeri woman and artist Brooke Wandin responding to a wangimu bubupal (a child’s boomerang) on loan from Museums Victoria.

-Isabel Wright, by email

All face expulsion by the new executive, acting under instructions from the recent Federal conference in Hobart. These State Ministers attended: Mr. Coleman, Transport; Mr. Barry, Health; Mr. Hayes, Housing; Mr. Scully, Assistant Minister.

State M.L.Á.'s: Messrs. S. Corrigan (Port Melbourne), !. D'Arcy (Grant), G. Fewster (Essendon), M. Lucy (Ivanhoe), L. Morrissey (Mernda), J. O'Carroll (Clifton Hill), P. Randles (Brunswick) and G. White (Mentone).

State M.L.C.'s: Messrs. A. Bailey (Melbourne West), T. Brennan (Monash), Paul Jones (Doutta Galla), J. Little (Melbourne North) and M. Sheehy (Melbourne).

On the punt

■ Police Chief Porter says (here's a moral in this). He was in the viewing room at Russell st. watching police photograph a man who had been brought in for questioning.

The man was asked his occupation. He said he e was a professional punter.

The çonstàblé asked .him to turn round while his profile was photographed. And Mr. Porter saw it. - NO SEAT IN HIS PANTS

In the back

■ Swanston st. yesterday, near Collins st., it happened. At 3.40 p.m., it happened.

Chap sprinted across the road to catch a tram.

A vehicle braked sharply to miss him. the driver stuck out his head. "Watch out!" he yelled, "or you'll end up in the back ot this waggon." He was driving an ambulance.

The driver af the vehicle next to the ambulance added: "Or in mine." He was driving a hearse.

■ Police began their biggest blitz on Melbourne motorists at 7 a.m. yesterday. And by late last night 200 - a record number - had been booked for all types of traffic breaches.

Argus, March 25, 1955

●

Paul Williams

■ Live Nation presents Paul Williams in Don't Look at Me from March 27 - April 20 at the Victoria Hotel Banquet Room and the Westin, Melbourne. Multi-talented Williams has been making waves across Kiwi television screens with his role of assistant (as well as one of the three writers of the tasks and script) in the popular comedy panel game show Taskmaster NZ.

He’s also widely known as a stand-up comedian, scriptwriter and musician. Paul has performed multiple times at both the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Edinburgh Fringe Festival and gained traction with his uniquely inventive approach to musical comedy.

As a musician, in 2018 Paul released his full-length album Surf Music (featuring Nish Kumar on guitar and Rose Matafeo in a music video).

For complete tour and ticket information visit: livenation.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Death, Deceit and Ducks

■ Club Voltaire was the perfect venue for this collection of six vignettes by Cerise de Gelder.

Tucked away in Raglan St, North Melbourne, accessed by a narrow stairwell, and with drapery across the ceiling, the venue had the intimacy needed for these explorations of people’s foibles.

Gelder’s scenarios were quirky and comic touching, as they did, on the absurd side of life.

Most included some reference to Death, Deceit and Ducks, hence the title of the collection.

Emily was the second child of a pair of identical twins and never quite as good as her older sister.

Andrew developed a close relationship with a duck. Geoff had only 10 minutes to live.

These explorations offered a sense of pathos alleviated by the ridiculous. At the same time, the scenarios and extremes of conduct were feasible.

The ridiculous met with reality. And it was often through Gelder’s word play that the comedy came to the fore.

The cast took on multiple roles. (Nadia Andary, Tref Gare, Brigitte Jarvis, Ross Larkin).

The performers were completely at home with their characterisations enjoying the chance to revel in both the nonsense and the personalities of the characters they inhabited. Taking on an accent or mannerism to evoke an identity seemed effortless.

And director, Natasha Broadstock, had all four of her charges on stage able to assist with whoever was performing despite not being in a given scene.

As an evening out, you probably couldn’t find better.

The atmosphere was convivial, the subject matter controversial, in as much as it pricked the pretensions of people’s behaviour, and the performances captivating for they touched on who we all are underneath our veneer of rectitude.

- Review by David McLean

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR

■ The Rice-Webber production of Jesus Christ Superstar first appeared in Melbourne in 1972.

This revival directed by Timothy Scheader proves that the original composer and lyricist have written something of enduring significance.

From the opening chords of the electric guitar we are shaken from our theological complacency into new ways of looking at an ageless story.

The hoodies on the disciples in this iteration, the microphones attached to spears and staves, and the industrial feel of the set (Tom Scutt ) suggests we are in a hyper intense contemporary musical setting.

And nearly every scene has been choreographed (Drew McOnie) insinuating continual movement.

Michael Paynter as Jesus and Javon King as Judas have vocal ranges that defy gravity. The physicality of Paynter’s vocals earned him a standing ovation half way through Gethsemane.

But the lyricism of Mary’s ballad (Mahalia Barnes ) and also her duet with Peter (Tana Laga’aia) provide a counterpoint of pathos and helplessness.

Again, this is a tribute to how Rice and Webber constructed the original. This is also evident in Reuben Kaye’s delightfully camp Herod. It is a theatrical conceit that allows for grandeur and opulence in the middle of what is, ostensibly, a tragic story.

There are quirky elements to the production. The nod to the Last Supper was inspired but, in the end, the musical industry references to microphones – Jesus is crucified on a stand that held a speaker and Judas’s red microphone cord left dangling to suggest suicide don’t quite hold.

And some of the more muted choreography of the second half seemed more in keeping with the storyline than the overly energetic first half.

Regardless, this is a powerful rendition of a theatrical work that has endured and still speaks today.

Playing for a limited season at the Princess Theatre, Melbourne.

Bookings: jesuschristsuperstarmusical.com. au/

- Review by David McLean

Arts House

■ Arts House transforms into a space of healing and cultural sovereignty

Blak Women’s Healing is a significant Yirramboi program and whole-building takeover at Arts House curated by Wemba-Wemba and Gunditjmara visual artist and academic, Dr Paola Balla, to be presented from April 23 to May 17.

An exhibition of visual, oral, text-based and material culture, Blak Women’s Healing is centred on Aboriginal women’s stories and resistance that recognise the trauma, survival and self-determined desires for justice, peace and wellbeing.

Balla says her art and research amplifies the voices and lived experiences of Aboriginal women: “Blak Women’s Healing acknowledges the grief, strength and continuation of our culture.”

Created by Aboriginal women, Blak Women’s Healing is a cultural collaboration informed by ongoing community research and healing arts practices through dialogues about Country, place.

The other Aboriginal women collaborators working with Balla to deliver Blak Women’s Healing include:

■ Cousins and Sisters – a group of aunties from Echuca:Aunty Margie Tang, Aunty Donna Mitchel and Aunty Denise Morgan. For decades they have worked towards healing and addressing racism, health and education inequalities through weaving, artwork and community collective work.

■ Kath Apma Penangke Travis – a Stolen Generation survivor, historian and postdoctoral fellow in the Moondani Balluk Indigenous Academic Unit at Victoria University. Her research

investigates the process of decolonising the archives, reclaiming and reframing First Nations family her-stories that reimagine inter-generational healing.

Blak women from the western suburbs – inspiring voices of Aboriginal women that continue to educate others about the need to live in peace without harassment, child removal and violence against them and future generations.

The centrepiece of Blak Women’s Healing is Balla’s 2021 large-scale mixed-media installation, Murrup (ghost) Weaving in Rosie Kuka Lar (Grandmother’s Camp) – it is a recognition to her grandmother, who taught her to see Country through art.

Balla’s bush-dyeing is a slow lesson about the healing process. Time is spent talking and walking in local landscapes to collect small samples of plants, sticks, branches and foliage. These objects are carefully placed in cloth bundles and brewed in large pots of water and vinegar for 1-3 hours to create fabrics marked by Country that trigger senses and memories.

“Bush-dyeing is a laborious and involved learning process which I find soothing. Deep listening and being present is critical to this work. It is repetitive, meditative and holds all of the attributes of mindfulness practice,” says Balla.

Event Dates: April 23 - May 17. Mon .– Fri., 10.30am – 430pm; Sat, 11am – 4pm. Closed Sundays and public holidays. artshouse.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Lime Cordiale

■ September 11-12 will see performances at Hamer Hall for a live concert experience with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra for the Lime Cordiale with the Symphony Orchestras tour.

Collaborating with Lime Cordiale on these once-in-a-lifetime performances are symphony conductor, Vanessa Scammell (Birds of Tokyo, The Cat Empire) and arranger, Alex Turley (Genesis Owusu, Dan Sultan).

Together with Lime Cordiale’s Oliver and Louis Leimbach, they have dived into the full Lime Cordiale catalogue and created an exciting set list with a symphonic twist.

With more than 80 musicians on stage, there are favourite Lime tracks. From stirring strings to thunderous brass, hits like Robbery, Temper Temper, Dirt Cheap and more are soaring to electrifying new heights .

“With a cello-playing mum, we grew up playing classical clarinet and trumpet,” says the indie-pop sibling duo.

“The band came together while Oli was studying at the Conservatorium, and playing in concert bands and orchestras was a big part of Lime Cordiale’s beginnings.”

“This is a major bucket-list tick for us. It’s scary and intimidating, but our inner band nerds are all for it! We can’t wait to dive into some epic orchestral arrangements of our songs.”

Love Don’t Live Here Anymore

■ Live Nation Entertainment presents Jesse Griffin AKAWilson Dixon's show Love Don't Live Here Anymore, You Do from March 27 - April 6 in the Chinese Museum as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

Jesse Griffin is an actor, comedian, writer and director who has worked throughout the UK, Australia and NZ since the mid-1990s.

He studied at the John Bolton School in Melbourne training in physical theatre in ’95 and 96, which led to co-founding the Melbourne-based physical comedy trio The 4 Noels, who had a critically acclaimed and box-office successful performance run between 1998 and 2008.

The trio won best comedy awards at the Melbourne Fringe Festival and Wellington Fringe Festivals , a Moosehead Award, a Spirit of the Fringe Award at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and were twice nominated for the Barry Award for best show at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

American country music character Wilson Dixon is one of Jesse’s most recognisable creations. Wilson Dixon has appeared on BBC Radio, toured around NZ, and been a guest comedian on 7 Days

He has won best comedy awards at the NZ International Comedy Festival, been nominated for best comedy at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and won a Spank Award at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival for musical comedy.

Performance Dates: March 27 to April 6

Venue: Chinese Museum

Bookings: livenation.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Come From Away

■ A musical beget from the tragedy of the 9/ 11 terrorist attack event that changed many things forever.

Book, music and lyrics by Irene Sankoff (librettist and lyricist) and David Hein (writer) her husband put the small Newfoundland town of Gander (locally called ‘The Rock’) on the map with Come From Away, when some 38 planes containing over 6,700 people, were grounded at the Gander Airport as the air space in New York was closed.

Geelong’s Centre Stage Theatre carefully crafted a superlative production under acclaimed Director Matthew Henderson

A confronting story, yet heart-warming as we see the small community open up their hearts, souls and the town to help the stranded travelers of many cultures.

In staging Come From Away at the hi-tech Geelong Arts Centre, Centre Stage built a two part floor revolve, stage that was used seamlessly in delivering the story with its many changes in location.

The assembled multitalented cast played without hesitation their role of either town resident or one of the stranded travellers, changing their character portrayal with ease.

Pivotal was the leadership shown by versatile Duncan Esler as Mayor Claude Elliott who led the town through the many challenges, “it was just something we had to do”, whether by feeding them, providing temporary clothing or accommodating them and providing daily essentials.

The remaining cast of 11 all stood tall with masterful performances and with split second timing, in changes whether with vocals, dance or dialogue.

Beverley Bass as Bronte Wright gave an emotional rendition of ‘Somewhere in the Middle of Nowhere’ , a poignant moment with the tourists returning home.

Persuasive was Felicity Cartwright as Buelah, the total organiser, strong and determined.

We cannot overlook Sally-Anne Cowdell as Diane and Brad Beales as Nick, strangers who turned lovers while Andrew Lorenzo as Kevin T and Nelfio Di Marco as Kevin J working through their relationship.

Mat Dwyer as Oz the policeman portrayed many characters with conviction.

Musical Director Tom Fernee and Choreographer Natalya Munro provided a memorable backing and with toe-tapping movement throughout, all supported by well credentialed Technical and Staging teams.

All a credit to the Centre Stage team under Managing Director, David Greenwood. - Review by Graeme McCoubrie

● ● ● ● Michael Paynter (Jesus) and Mahalia Barnes (Mary) in Jesus Christ Superstar. Photo: Jeff Busby

Local Theatre Observations

CADAVER PALAVER Shows

■ Essendon Theatre Company: Love, Love, Love (by Mike Bartlett)Until March 29 at the Bradshaw Street Hall, Bradshaw St., West Essendon. Director: Casey Bohan. Bookings: 0406448368 or trybooking.

■ Fab Nobs Theatre: Come From Away. Until April 5 at Fab Nobs Theatre, Factory 33, 1-45 Industry Place, Bayswater. Director: Sarah Tierney; Musical Director: Sally McKenzie; Ass’t. Director/Choreographer: Aimee John; Ass’t. Director/Ass’t. Choreographer: Amy Miles. Bookings: fabnobstheatre.com.au

■ NOVA Music Theatre: The Music Man. Until March 30 at The Round, 379 Whitehorse Rd., Nunawading. Bookings: theround. com.au/whats-on/nova-themusicman

■ Brighton Theatre Company: Glimpses (a collection of monologues and short oneact plays) March 26 – 28 at the Brighton Town Hall, Wilson St., Brighton. Director: Alison Knight. Bookings: www.brightontheatre. com.au

■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: When the Wind Blows (by Raymond Briggs) March 28- April 12 at the Warrandyte Mechanics’ Institute, 180 Yarra St., Warrandyte. Director: David Tynan. Bookings: trybooking.com/ cyjqt

■ The 1812 Theatre: The Thrill of Love (by Amanda Whittington) April 3 – 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

■ CPP Community Theatre: Macbeth (by William Shakespeare) April 4 – 12 at Boronia K-12 College, Performing Arts Centre, Albert Avenue, Boronia. (park at Rangeview Rd. end). Director: Kathryn White. Bookings: cppcommunitytheatre.com.au/

■ Ballarat National Theatre: This is the Way the World Ends (by Barry Kay) April 4 – 6 at the Ballarat Mechanics Institute, Sturt St., Ballarat. Director: Louise Permezel. Bookings: bnt.org.au/news?view=article& id=751&catid=66

■ Essendon Theatre Company: Ordinary Days (by Adam Gwon) April 4, 5, 6 at the Bradshaw St. Community Hall, 9 Bradshaw St., West Essendon. Cabaret seating. Bookings: 0406448368 or Trybooking

■ Upstage Theatre Company: Into the Woods, April 4–13 at the Tony Schemack Centre for Performing Arts, Beaconhills College, Berwick Campus. Directgor: Scott J Hili; Choreographer: Sarah Cullen; Musical Director: Tim Bland. Bookings: upstagetheatre company.com

■ FAMDA: Confluence (by Chris Dickins) April 5 – 13 at the Foster War Memorial arts Centre, 79 Main St., Foster. Director: Chris Dickins. Bookings: Trybooking.com/CZYVC

■ 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

■ 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

■ Written and performed by Christopher Carroll, Cadaver Palaver is a bit like The 49 Steps meeting the Savage Club. The first is a ripping yarn while the latter harks back to the days of yore where gentlemen regale each other with stories of their achievements surrounded by the artifacts of a bygone era.

Carroll’s physicality and appearance, from the tips of his upturned moustache to the gestures denoting the range of predicaments his character, Bennett Cooper Sullivan, finds himself in, help carry a show full of ridiculous scenarios and situations.

Ostensibly, Egyptian mummies are being sold on the black market and Sullivan, having travelled through Afghanistan and Africa, is just the man to solve the case. Along the way there are murders and missing body parts and near death experiences.

Naturally enough, all works out well for Sullivan. But it is the understated humour, the lexical dexterity and the bravado of the character that make this show so entertaining.

Carroll‘s tweed outfit sets the tone and he carries the stage from the very first moment establishing a rapport with his audience. The story is superbly crafted moving from one dilemma to another crossing from the fetid air of Cairo to London’s cobbled streets and then to Edinburgh where many a body can be found. It is relentless.

Carroll embodies every character in this yarn with believable changes of accent and never misses a beat. This is a man on top of his craft as a writer and performer making this a worthy component of this year’s Melbourne Comedy Festival.

- Review by David McLean

More Shows

■ 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

■ Brighton Theatre Company: One Act Play Season May 31 – June 7 at the Brighton Town Hall. Further details:brightontheatre.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Auditions

■ Essendon Theatre Company: Things I Know to be True (by Andrew Bovell) April 1, 3 at 7pm, April 5 at 10.30am at the Bradshaw Street Community Hall, Bradshaw St., West Essendon (Off Buckley St.). Director: Angelo Snell. Audition enquiries and bookings:

angelo.s23@live.com or phone 0458 502 232.

■ Melbourne French Theatre: French-speaking actors only (or variation) for Après les Roses, le Poison - From Roses to Poison in French with English surtitles on April 5 at 2pm and April 8 at 7pm at La Maison de Maitre Building, 203-205 Canning Street, Carlton [corner Canning and Neill Streets]. Director: Donald Mcmanus; Producer: Michael Bula. RSVP on website https://melbournefrenchtheatre.org.au/auditions/

■ The 1812 Theatre Ltd: Home, I’m Darling (by Laura Wade) April 6 at 6pm, April 7 at 7.30pm at The 1812 Theatre, 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Amy Calbert. Audition enquiries: aj267@outlook.com or phone 0432 804 803

■ Malvern Theatre Company: The Humans (by Stephen Karam) April 13, 14 at 7pm at 29 Burke Rd., Malvern. Director: Nicky NevilleJones. Audition enquiries: gemcoplayers.org

■ Brighton Theatre Company: Fallen Angels (by Noel Coward) April 13 at 2pm, April 14 at 7pm at Brighton Theatre, Cnr Wilson and Carpenter Sts., Brighton. Director: Joe Dias. Audition bookings and enquiries to Joe Dias: fallenangels2025btc@gmail.com

■ 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.

■ 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

■ 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

■ 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

- Cheryl Threadgold

Aastha stands

■ Aastha Kafle, 26 years old from Avondale Heights , is a national finalist in Miss Galaxy Australia 2025

She seeks to raise voice, share her personal/ pageant journey, mental health advocacy, and her initiative in empowering women.

Australia Galaxy Pageants is a fast-growing system dedicated to empowering women of various backgrounds to "be the best version of you."

Over the past decade, Australia Galaxy delegates have proudly raised over $700,000 for charity and have been encouraged to give back to their local communities through volunteering and community engagement.

Each year, four national winners go on to represent Australia at the Galaxy International Pageant in the USA

Aastha was raised by a single mother after the tragic loss of her father at the age of six, she learned early on the value of resilience and perseverance.

At 18, she made the bold decision to move to Australia on my own, determined to build a new life from scratch.

“This transition was far from easy. I encountered numerous challenges, including bullying leading to struggles with self-esteem and body image, social anxiety, and difficulties managing stress, all of which affected my personal life, as well as my physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing,” Aastha said.

- Contributed

The Bunny Club

● ● Blanche d’Alpuget

■ Blanche d’Alpuget is a successful and prolific writer, and her latest book has taken her in quite a new direction.

Best known as a writer for her historical fiction, essays, and biographies of her late husband, former prime minister Bob Hawke, Blanche has just written her first crime fiction novel entitled The Bunny Club

Enter the world of Evelyn Sinclair, a beloved morning TV host whose glamorous life takes a dark turn. While on the surface life is good as a TV star adored by her public, behind the scenes at the TV station forces are at work to kill her career.

Evelyn decides to leave it all behind for a weekend and escape with her lover to her country mansion in Bowral, but instead of indulging in a weekend of romance and freedom, she is found dead under mysterious and chilling circumstances.

Red herrings and clues abound, and nothing is as it seems, in this racy story of crime, intrigue and redemption, before the truth is finally uncovered. Readers looking for a thrill will enjoy The Bunny Club, although it might shock the faint-hearted or conservative reader.

At the age of 81, Blanche d’Alpuget is full of joie de vivre and has no desire to slow down and take it easy. In fact, as The Bunny Club is being launched, she already has plans for her next novel.

Having been a writer for 50 years, she says she is a compulsive writer and gets so much joy out of her craft.

The Bunny Club by Blanche d’Alpuget is published by Popcorn Press and will be released on March 28.

- Julie Houghton

You Can’t Say Everything

■ Award-winning comedian and NSW RAW Comedy State Finalist Rian ('imagine Ian with an R') Howlett has had it up to here with statements that are just untrue.

Tired of hearing people whinge about the limits of free speech he’s decided to do the only thing left in a world like ours.

Howlett's show You Can't Say Everything These Days will be presented at Tasma Terrace at 7.10pm from March 26 - April 6.

For over 50 minutes, audiences will experience an examination of our personal, public and private worlds.

Rian will verbally hold patrons' hands and take them to laughs.

Audiences will be left pondering if just because you can say something, does it mean you should?

All while being reminded that you can lead a hoard to laughter, but you can’t make ‘em think.

Performance Season: March 26 - April 6 at 7.10pm

Venue: Tasma Terrace, East Melbourne Show duration: 50 minutes

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au/ browse-shows/you-can-t-say-everythingthese-days/

- Cheryl Threadgold

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Importance of Being Earnest

■ Oscar Wilde’s wildly arch dialogue, enjoyed by audiences for 130 years, is on fire again in the National Theatre Live’s The Importance of Being Earnest.

Director Max Webster imbues the production with a high-camp, pantomime vibe with new dialogue additions, fourth wall breaks and sight gags.

The bare bones of Wilde’s comedy centres on Jack (Hugh Skinner) and Algy (Ncuti Gatwa), two bachelors who create a convenient doppelganger, ‘Ernest’ , allowing them to secretly pursue hedonistic delights.

Complications arise when their love interests, Gwendolen (Ronke Adékoluéjó) and Cecily (Eliza Scanlen), think they are engaged to Ernest.

Wilde’s nudge-nudge-wink-wink romp lampoons Victorian propriety, privilege, masculinity, class, and the emancipation of women, sending it all up.

“You have fallen into the dangerous habit of thinking for yourself, Cecily,” Miss Prism (Amanda Lawrence) admonishes.

Brilliant comic performances abound. Gwendolen squeals, gags and spits her tea when offered to her with sugar lumps, now considered démodé.

Sharon D. Clarke’s Caribbean battle-axe, Lady Bracknell, almost steals the show with her witty, caustic snobberies.

Julian Bleach plays archaic servant Merriman, appearing onstage like a ghost dressed as a refugee from the French Revolution Webster leans into the homoerotic, flirty and flamboyant energy underscoring Wilde’s text.

Rae Smith’s set and costumes dazzle.

Gatwa opens the show, twirling onstage in a hot pink ballgown.

Miss Prism’s famous handbag appears as a deus ex machina, lowered by Jack from the gods via a fishing line above the proscenium arch.

In the show’s finale, the cast struts their stuff worthy of a RuPaul runway. There have been a few terrific recent revivals of Wilde’s play, including the 2020 Ridiculusmus twohander and the fabulous 2023 Sydney Theatre company’s version.

Webster’s celebration of Wilde’s enduring comedy is another fitting tribute to Wilde’s genius.

In select Australian cinemas from March 27.

- Review by Kathryn Keeble

End Game

■ Katie Reddin-Clancy presents End Game from March 31 to April 20 at the MC Showroom as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

Presenting the big questions mos-

t 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.

This is those sliding door moments wrapped around a character-driven dramedy with original storytelling and bold cabaret moments.

This darkly comedic solo show blends evocative theatre, taking audiences on a journey with emotion and surprising revelations.

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 bewareyou 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 through storytelling from the female, outsiders’ perspective.

Written, performed and produced by Katie, this is said to be 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 Great Awakening and parallel worlds.

Performance Dates: March 31April 20

Venue: MC Showroom Bookings: comedyfestival. com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Sleep At The G

■ On May 15, in a much-needed fundraiser for the Melbourne City Mission, sleepers will converge on the MCG to tackle youth homelessness.

Each year hundreds of Victorians come together in support of thousands of young Victorians who are without a safe place to call home, for one big sleepover at Melbourne’s most celebrated sporting and entertainment venues.

“Every young person deserves a safe place to call home, yet thousands of young Victorians are facing homelessness every night,” said Vicki Sutton, CEO, MCM “Sleep at the ’G is a powerful reminder that together, we can make a difference.”

On any given night, over 7600 young Victorians aged 12-24 are without a safe place to call home. Many young people resort to couch surfing, sleeping in cars, or staying in crowded

and unsafe housing. Sleep at the G is now open for registrations from corporates, individuals, sporting and community groups who would like to fundraise to end youth homelessness.

The night provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sleep at the iconic MCG with fun activities through the night to keep the fundraisers amused.

A celebrity host will be announced in the coming months along with a fun night of entertainment, including everything from music to comedians all ready to join the cause to end youth homelessness.

Funds raised go toward MCM’s Youth Housing Initiative, supporting young people experiencing homelessness and other complex needs to transition to independence.

YHI provides three interchangeable levels of housing and support for up to four years, allowing young people to more seamlessly and efficiently step up or down in support as they transition to independence.

MCM is a leading community support organisation that for over 165 years has been delivering programs and fundraising to create inclusive, fair and just communities across Victoria.

The organisation provides a broad range of support in: Homelessness, Early Years, Disability, Early Childhood Intervention Services, Education, Palliative Care and Mental Health service areas.

Sleep at the G is one of the organisation’s major fundraising initiatives and will be held on May 15 at the MCG in Melbourne

For more information visit SleepAtTheG.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Greek

National Day

■ The 2025 Greek National Day Parade celebrated 204 years of Greek independence.

A Greek-Australian Commemorative Service at the Shrine of Remembrance, honouring the enduring friendship and alliance between Greece and Australia, was held.

There were more than 1500 participants and more than 3000 spectators coming together in the spirit of pride, heritage, and unity.

The return of the parade to the vicinity of the Shrine of Remembrance — the parade’s historical home — was met with great enthusiasm and a strong sense of tradition.

The vibrant event featured Greek schools, cultural organisations, youth groups, and community associations, all proudly showcasing the rich Hellenic culture.

The turnout reflected the significance of this occasion and also the strength and solidarity of the GreekAustralian community.

The Victorian Council for Greek National Day says that it looks forward to building on this success and continuing to honour this cherished tradition for generations to come. - Contributed

The Call

■ (MA). 111 minutes. Now streaming on Netflix.

It’s not often that a remake improves on its original source, but The Call does just that, reformatting the material to entertaining, fullblooded effect.

Seo-yeon (Park Shin-hye) returns home to see her mother (Kim Sung-ryoung), who is in hospital suffering from a brain tumour. Having lost her mobile phone on during the trip back, Seo-yeon pulls out an old landline phone to use in the meantime, but when a terrified young woman by the name of Young-sook (Jun Jong-seo) calls one night saying her stepmother is trying to kill her, it’s a connection that will lead the two down a unique, but dangerous, path.

Though the specific plotting is different, the narrative arc of both films is generally the same, but where the 2011 version, The Caller (**), failed to capitalise on what is a terrific premise (due to clumsy writing, dull direction and poor performances), the 2020 incarnation is a much smarter beast, pushing both set-up and possibilities to the absolute limit.

The first half in particular is ingeniously plotted, and although it stumbles a little by allowing the race-against-the-clock aspect to overshadow the intricate plot turns in the second, there is still plenty to admire and enjoy (imagine a darker mix of the romantic mega-hit Il Mare (2000) and The Phone (2015)).

Debutant writer/director Lee Chung-hyun shows incredible confidence and skill in executing this tale, especially when it all could have easily fallen on its face early on. Lee is also backed up by a firstrate technical crew.

The performances by both Park (#Alive) and Jun (Burning) are superb, and without their sterling work, the film wouldn’t have gripped as much as it does.

Where the original film-makers seemed afraid to fully explore the unusual premise they had concocted, those at the helm of this remake on the other hand have been fully prepared to cut loose, resulting in a clever, top-shelf thriller that should keep viewers on the edge of their seat.

RATING - ****

Petite Maman

■ (PG). 74 minutes. Now available on DVD.

Using every second of its compact running time to beautiful effect, this gentle but moving drama delicately details the loss of a family member, but seen through the eyes of a young child, who deals with that loss in a particularly unique

way. The movie opens with Nelly (Josephine Sanz) saying goodbye to a number of elderly residents at an aged care centre, whose rooms were located near her late grandmother’s. Travelling with her mother, Marion (Nina Meurisse), while her father (Stephane Varupenne) drives in a separate vehicle towing a storage trailer, the family make their way to Marion’s childhood home in the country, where she can go through everything and decide what to keep.

As the two adults go through this process, Nelly explores the woods Marion did as a child, and discovers a fort her mother made, but also meets another young girl who must live in the area (Gabrielle Sanz) The girl introduces herself as Marion, and invites Nelly back to her home, but when that home is the same one she had left earlier, the term ‘time travel’ comes to mind.

Writer/director Celine Sciamma (Portrait Of A Lady On Fire) delivers a wholly engaging effort, which quietly works its way to a satisfying, heartwarming conclusion, never once wallowing in cheap sentiment or nostalgia.

Sciamma brilliantly looks at how a major family tragedy can open the mind of a child, becoming aware of not only what the loss means, but also the detailed stitching that connects past, present and future. The time travel scenario is a clever set-up to examine what makes a family history, and how mindsets, ambitions, and personal behaviour is influenced from one generation to the next. The two girls are exceptional, while the adult performers offer fine support. Petite Maman is a magnificently sweet film, filled with moments of insight and genuine tenderness, and is definitely must-see viewing.

RATING - ****½

The Platform

■ (R). 94 minutes. Now streaming on Netflix.

Highly relevant and depressing in equal measure, this unexpectedly visceral thriller provides much food for thought, as it largely presents humanity at its absolute worst, while that small sliver of hope has to fight long and hard to make an impact.

Set in the near future, the story takes place in a uniquely designed underground prison, where the cells are placed one on top of the other, descending hundreds of floors.

Each cell contains two prisoners, and in the centre is a rectangleshaped hole, where a platform is lowered from floor to floor.

The sequel, also available on Netflix , is worth watching, but doesn’t match the original.

RATING - **** - Aaron Rourke

■ Carole Lombard was one of the highest paid film stars in Hollywood during the 1930s. I wonder how many people still remember her.

Carole died before I was born but I love watching her old films - she was beautiful and very good in her comedy roles.

Jane Alice Peters was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana in 1908. When Jane was six, her parents separated and her mother took the children to Los Angeles

At the age of 12, she was spotted by a Hollywood director as she played baseball in the street.

She had a small role in the silent film A Perfect Crime . Her first lead role came in 1925 when she starred in Hearts and Spurs using the stage name of Carol Lombard

Carol was in a car accident in 1925 which resulted in a scar on her left cheek which was noticeable throughout her life.

She made a series of short films with comedy director Max Sennett. When the ‘talkies’ arrived Carol made the transition with great success.

She signed a contract with Paramount Studios and when they spelt her name incorrectly in a film credit she liked the change and from that point was known as Carole Lombard.

In 1931 Carole co-starred with William Powell in Man of the World and they and married in the same year.

Powell was 18 years older than Carole and the marriage lasted only two years but they re-

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

mained friends over the years and still co-starred together in comedy films. In 1934 she was cast opposite Bing Crosby in We're Not Dressing and the film was a box office smash.

Carole was madly in love with the singer Russ Columbo until his untimely death as the result of an accidental gunshot.

Carole had a reputation for straight talking and was not afraid to stand up for her rights.

In 1936 she was nominated for an Academy Award Carole worked with Hollywood's leading men and her films included My Man Godfrey, In Name Only, Nothing Sacred, They Knew What They Wanted and Mr and Mrs Smith Carole and Clark Gable had worked together in silent films as extras but became romanti-

●

cally linked in 1936. They married in 1939 and lived on a 20-acre ranch at Encino, California, where they enjoyed the outdoors together. Her final film was To Be or Not to Be with

of Poland

In the early hours of January 16, 1942, Carole, her mother and her publicist boarded a plane in Indiana, where Carole had been participating in a war bond rally.

The plane crashed into a mountain in the Las Vegas area and the22 people on board were killed instantly.

Clark Gable was inconsolable but flew to the site of the crash to identify the bodies. He was present at the launch of the SS Carole Lombard in 1944 which was named in her honour to mark her extraordinary work to raise money for the war effort.

As her death was only a few weeks after America entered the war Carole was posthumously awarded The Medal of Freedom by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as the first woman killed in the line of duty in WWII

When Gable died in 1960 he was buried beside Carole in accordance with his wishes.

The platinum blonde actress from the golden days of Hollywood lives on in her films and we can still enjoy her great talent.

Kevin Trask Kevin can be heard on 3AW -

The Time Tunnel - Remember WhenSundays at 10.10pm with Simon Owens and Andrew McLaren. And on 96.5 FM

That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon. www.innerfm.org.au

DIAGRAMS FOR TRANSITION AT COLLINGWOOD Whatever Happened To ... Carole Lombard

Diagrams for TransitionTonee Messiah

Movement through alternating perception is observed as diagrammatic process of transition.

A perception of belief in place comforted by its assumed resolution until it is met by an abrupt intrusion which must wilfully be absorbed or rejected.

The assessment of what can be acknowledged and what might be a threat to equilibrium becomes the focus of observation for Diagrams for Transition.

Exhibition closes April 5. Nicolas Thompson Gallery 155 Langridge St, Collingwood

At St Kilda

Residue of Intimacy –Aurora Burnett Kuhn explores the intersection of darkroom photography and intimacy, examining the lingering presence pf touch, memory, and leisure.

For Aurora, the darkroom is not merely a site for production but a space of devotion - an active collaborator in the art of making.

Desire plays a central role in Aurora’s work, both in subject and methodology. She has documented the body of her boyfriend Kirill on 35 mm film, then revisiting these images in the darkroom, where memory and longing take material form.

Inspired by filmmaker Luca Guadagnino and photographer Man Ray, Aurora abstracts the human figure , fragmenting it into textures of shin, folds of fabric, and fleeting impressions of presence.

Exhibition opens Thursday March 27 and closes May 4.

Linden New A Linden Projects Space rear 26 Acland St, St Kilda

Burrinja

ChrysalisDandenong Ranges Open Studios Group Exhibition

The annual Open Studios group exhibition is designed to produce a cohesive and diverse range of artwork to showcase the creative energy of each artist. This year’s theme is Chrysalis.

The Arts

The Chrysalis exhibition invites artists to explore personal or collective solution, the shedding of old ideas, and the emergence of new perspectives.

It encourages reflection on the cycles of change, resilience, and beauty that often arises from moments of quiet introspection and metamorphosis.

Through various mediums and interpretations, the exhibition seeks to highlight the delicate yet powerful process of coming.

With 42 studios showcasing nearly 600 artists, the Chrysalis exhibition is the perfect place to your appetite with this taster of the diverse talent the hills has to offer, before embarking on your journey to explore the studios.

Exhibition closes Sunday April 27.

★

Outside of Me – Leticia Hodson and Wade Keighly

This compelling exhibition by mother and son, Leticia Hodson and Wade Keighly captures a pivotal moment in their relationship – where a parent steps back, allowing their child’s artistic voice to shine.

Wade (13), born with Down Syndrome, creates with instinct and expression, contrasting with Leticia’s narrative portraiture, which documents his creative journey.

Exhibition opens Saturday March 29 and closes Sunday May 11.

351 Glenfern Rd, Upwey Glen

Eira

Thread – Tangles/detangles

Naarm Textile Collective. Thread – Tangles/detangles brings together work by artists from the Naarm Textile Collective who explore the possibilities of thread in their work. Each artist will use their unique perspective and textile discipline to follow a different thread, wherever it may lead them.

The exhibition explores tangible and intangible connections, processes and techniques.

Transformed through knitting, weaving, looping and stitching, threads carry significant personal and cultural narratives.

It aims to encourage viewers to think their relationship to thread be aware of its materiality, possibilities and limitations.

Exhibition closes April 6.

Glen Eira Art Gallery

Cnr Glen Eira and Hawthorn Rd. Caulfield

MOPh

Topshots

is an annual celebration of emerging photo-media artists selected from a large pool of entries. @025 marks the 17th anniversary of this award and exhibition, which showcases exceptional photographic work produced by students who have complete the Victorian Certificate of Education subjects of art Making and Exhibiting, Art Creative Practice and Media, as well as the International Baccalaureate subject of Visual Arts and the Vocational Education and Training subject of Visual Arts.

The 2025 winner is Maylinn O’Connor. The artist said that her series Bd Ngooi, translating to “Grandmother”. delves into the theme of my cultural heritage through layered photographic portraits, blending photographs of myself with ancestral figures from Vietnam dating back to 1837.

Update on Tiger Woods

■ There is never a dull moment in the life of champion golfer Tiger Woods On his personal side, Tiger has confirmed his love partner these days is Vanessa Trump who is the ex-missus of Donald Trump Jr. The pair have been dating for last two months. On the business front Tiger's life of ups and downs is getting made into a biopic. One of the front runners to produce the film is the company owned by Barack and Michelle Obama. Not sure if it's by coincidence, or planned but Charlie Woods, son of Tiger, and Kai Trump, daughter of Vanessa Trump, are playing in same prestigious junior golf tourney.

Coming your way

■ Keep your antenna on alert for launch of a new streaming service called Tubi. The service boasts its speed, advantage of no interfering ads and the whole kit and kaboodle is free.

Drip Tray for beer co.

■ The Sydney Beer Company has gone into administration. The muchhyped beer had celebrity investors including Aussie fast bowler Brett Lee Reason for the sudden drop in beer sales is attributed to the switch by Generation Z from drinking beer in favour of wine. At one stage Sydney brand beer was sold in ,ore than 300 pubs/bars, and stocked by Dan Murphy

Gilligan’s Island

■ Who could ever forget the glamourous Tina Louise (stage name )? These days she is fit and well, aged 91. Re-runs of Gilligan's Island are still playing around the world but Tina has revealed she has not been paid residual fees for the past 60 years. Tina is not complaining and makes the point she is available for a role looking for a sprightly 91-year-old.

Sam Pang Show

■ The premiere show got off to an average start, nerves aside there is the nucleus of a top show in the making. Sam is best interviewing newsmakers and there's plenty to choose from on a weekly basis. Producers have a winner on their hands provided they can attract big names to be grilled. The non interview segments were very average but the Jack Thompson interview was interesting and entertaining. Sam and the show have potential provided they have the budget to attract top entertainers.

Venue: Aerie Gallery. Burrinja Gallery

- John O’Keefe OK. With John O’Keefe

● ● ● Carole Lombard

Jack Benny which satirised the Nazi takeover

●

● Tiger Woods

HORSHAM

Copper thefts

■ Horsham Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a series of significant copper thefts targeting rail infrastructure in countryVictoria

Unknown offenders have been cutting lengths of copper wire, up to kilometres at a time, and stealing the product with more than 30 reported incidents occurring between Buangor and Serviceton since February 2024.

The offending has caused significant and costly disruption to rail freight services.

“Most concerningly, these activities are extremely dangerous as trespass and interfering with assets on the rail corridor can have significant repercussions for the safety of rail workers, train crews and the offenders themselves,” a Police representative said.

The offenders are understood to be using 4WD vehicles to access remote areas where the wire has been laid.

A white 4WD Nissan Patrol was sighted by police responding to reports of a signal outage on a railway line near Gerang Gerung on Sunday, March 2.

Officers attempted to intercept the vehicle, which was seen towing a trailer full of suspected copper wire, but it refused to stop for police and sped away about 4.25am. Investigations remain ongoing.

COLLINGWOOD Shooting charge

■ Armed Crime Squad detectives have charged a man as part of their investigation into a non-fatal shooting in Collingwood in January.

Search warrants were executed at residential addresses in Hallam and Narre Warren.

A 19-year-old man from Narre Warren has subsequently been charged with intentionally cause serious injury, recklessly cause serious injury and theft of motor vehicle.

He was to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.

The activity follows an incident where emergency services were called to Vere St, near Palmer St, after two boys were located with gunshot wounds about 1am on Friday, January 24.

A 17-year-old boy was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

A 15-year-old boy was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

It is understood a large group of people were fighting on Hoddle St prior to the shooting.

Detectives believe the incident was a targeted attack. The investigation remains ongoing.

WOODEND NORTH

Fatal crash

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash in Woodend North

It is understood a car left the roadway and crashed into a pole near the intersection of Old Lancefield Rd and Clancys Lane about 6.30am on Monday (Mar. 24).

The driver, a 19-year-old Woodend man, died at the scene.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or with dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppers vic.com.au

ABBOTSFORD Missing woman

■ Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate missing Abbotsford woman Jackie

The 75-year-old was last seen getting onto a route 246 bus to Elsternwick from the Terminus Hotel in Abbotsford about 6.30pm Monday (Mar. 24).

Police and family have concerns for her welfare as she has Alzheimer’s and does not have a phone.

Jackie is Caucasian, with a medium build and blonde/white collar-length hair.

She was last seen wearing blue jeans, a beige jacket with a red arm patch.

Across Victoria 12 PEOPLE ARRESTED AS COCAINE SEIZED

■ Police have arrested 12 people and seized a commercial quantity of cocaine, during a major operation targeting firearms, drugs, and persons of interest across Greater Shepparton

Between Monday March 10 and Saturday March 15, detectives from Shepparton Crime Investigation Unit, Divisional Response Unit and Crime Command’s VIPER Taskforce knocked on the doors of 21 homes during a series of Firearm Prohibition Order searches and warrants.

The operation focused on individuals subject to Firearm Prohibition Orders, persons of interest, and outstanding warrants.

Under a Firearm Prohibition Order, a person is prohibited from acquiring, possessing, carrying, or using any firearm or firearm-related items such as ammunition.

Throughout the operation, police seized:

■ Traffickable quantity of cocaine valued over $80,000

■ Approximately $10,000 cash

■ Two stolen motorbikes

Those arrested by police include:

■ A 38-year-old Shepparton man was charged with allegedly trafficking a commercial quantity of cocaine after approximately 280 grams valued at approximately $70,000, was located and seized during of a search warrant. He was bailed to appear at Shepparton Magistrates Court on March 18.

■ A 43-year-old Tatura man was arrested in relation to six outstanding warrants. Police seized approximately 24 grams of cannabis, 20ml of GHB, and knuckle dusters. He was charged with possess drug of dependence, possess prohibited weapon, going equipped to steal, and possess proceeds of crime. He was bailed to appear before Shepparton Magistrates Court on July 14.

■ A 37-year-old Mooroopna man was arrested after police located an allegedly stolen motorbike at his address. He was charged with handle stolen goods and bailed to appear before Shepparton Magistrates Court on July 18.

■ On March 13, Viper Taskforce assisted Shepparton Divisional Response Unit with the execution of a search warrant at a property in Shepparton. Police located and seized approximately 10 grams of cocaine, and $9400 cash. A 36-year-old Mooroopna man was charged with traffick and possess cocaine. He was bailed to appear before Shepparton Magistrates Court on May 19.

Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Shortis, Shepparton Crime Investigation Unit, said: “Regional Victoria is not immune to serious and organised crime. Organised crime networks often believe they can operate under the radar in regional areas, but we are proving that’s simply not the case. “Crime Command’s VI-

AXEDALE

Horse stolen

■ Heathcote Police are investigating the theft of a much beloved disability-support horse from Axedale

‘Rosie’ has helped over 100 children with disabilities as a therapy horse over the past two years.

The mild-mannered equestrian is valued at $40,000 but means even more to the young children who ride her.

Investigators have been told the horse was stolen from a property on Canny Rd between 8pm on Monday, March 17, and 8am and Tuesday, March 18.

Police have released an image of Rosie, who is a black and white Gypsy Cob mare, in the hope someone can provide information on her whereabouts.

Investigators are particularly interested in anyone who may have CCTV or dashcam footage showing a vehicle towing a horse trailer in the Axedale, Heathcote, Strathfieldsaye or Bendigo areas between Monday night and Tuesday morning.

Leading Senior Constable Dan O’Bree from Heathcote Police said officers were extremely motivated to return this horse.

“This is a case that’s caused a lot of pain to a number of vulnerable young children,” he said.

“Rosie means an awful lot to these kids and we want nothing more than to see her returned unharmed.

“Someone out there will have seen something, or know something, and it’s important that they come forward.”

SHEPPARTON

Man inside van

Statewide

PER Taskforce have been invaluable in tackling organised crime and criminal activity in regional communities.

“By combining local intelligence with specialist resources, we are ensuring that every part of Victoria, including Greater Shepparton, remains a tough environment for criminals to operate in.”

“Community safety is always our top priority, and we rely on the public to help us target those doing harm. I

“f you have any information—no matter how small— you can report it anonymously to Crime Stoppers. Your tipoff could make a significant difference in preventing further crime in our community.”

Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Pearson, VIPER Taskforce, said: “These operations are all about cracking down on crime and ensuring the safety of the community.

“We hope our highly visible presence last week sent a clear message that crime will not be tolerated anywhere in this state.

“There can be a perception that it is easier to hide in regional areas. That is simply not true.

“If you are involved in organised criminal activity, you will be detected and you will be held accountable, irrespective of your location in Victoria

“Alongside local police, we will continue to be out in force

and use our full range of capabilities to proactively those involved in organised crime at every opportunity.”

MOUNT COTTRELL

Sheep safe

■ A lost sheep has been shepherded to safety following a group effort by emergency services in Mount Cottrell on Sunday night (Mar. 23).

The ewe found itself feeling rather sheepish after falling about two metres down an open manhole at the intersection of Sewells and Leakes Rds shortly after 5pm.

Its bleats for help were finally heard, with the Wyndham City Council rounding up the likes of local police, FRV and State Emergency Service workers to come up with a plan.

Dubbed Shaun by its rescuers, the emergency workers created a make-shift sling and managed to lift the beast from the pit to safety.

It’s not known where Shaun came from but it’s now in the hands of the council ranger to return it to its flock.

VICTORIA Coverage

● ● The Local Paper covers all Melbourne suburbs, the Mornington Peninsula and selected country areas. Online issues are published weekly.

■ Shepparton Crime Investigation detectives are investigating after a caravan was stolen while a man was sleeping inside at Shepparton

The 73-year-old victim woke to find he was being towed away from where he had parked outside his son’s house on Broken River Drive and promptly called police about 5.30am on Tuesday (Mar. 18).

The unknown offenders drove to Bridewell Court and unhooked the van.

Police arrived at the same time the offenders had returned to the white Nissan Navara they were travelling in.

Officers attempted to intercept the utility but it sped off, crossing onto the wrong side of Richmond St and was last seen heading east on Channel Rd.

The victim was not physically injured.

Checks revealed the Nissan had been stolen from Newport on February 25.

The vehicle has been sighted at several other incidents including;

■ Towing a stolen caravan in Spotswood on March 6

■ A trailer theft, theft and theft from motor vehicle in Point Cook on March 8

■ A motorbike theft in Kensington on March 13

The Nissan was last seen bearing stolen number plates 2BV 8VM.

Police have released an image of the vehicle in the hope that someone sights it and can provide information on its whereabouts.

Anyone who does see the Nissan is urged to contact Triple-Zero (000) immediately.

BRAYBROOK

Women charged

■ The Australian Federal Police charged a Melbourne woman on Monday (Mar. 24) as part of a money laundering investigation that resulted in the 2023 seizure of luxury watches, gold bullion and cash valued at almost $400,000. The AFP will allege the woman used a cafe she opened in mid-2022 to conceal proceeds of crime.

● ● ● ● Cocaine seized. File image.

Rotary Club of Club chartered 39 years ago

■ This year sees the 39-year anniversary of the Rotary Club of Yea being admitted to Rotary International on May 1, 1986.

My report in the the Yea press, of the Charter Night which followed, three decades ago, read: Saturday evening in Yea saw the Charter Night for our own local club in the one million-member Rotary International organisation.

Past District Governor Mike Reiner inducted Yea engineer Daryl Callander as the Charter President of the body which was formed in February-March this year.

More than 230 people packed into a beautifully decorated Yea Shire Hall to witness the presentation of charter, and the induction of the 23 Rotarians from Yea.

Meals and drinks were served by volunteers and it is expected that proceeds of more than $2000 will go towards the Yea’s Community Centre (Yea Indoor Recreation Centre) fund raising.

Chairman for the evening was Roy Fox, a Past President of the Rotary Club of Alexandra which is sponsor club for the Rotary Club of Yea.

He welcomed all present including guests who had travelled long distances for the historic occasion.

Grace was recited by Barry Mackrell, last year’s President of the Alexandra club.

He was followed by this year’s President, Ian Welch, who proposed the Loyal Toast and led a hearty rendition of God Save The Queen.

Apologies, congratulations and roll-call were given by another Past President of the neighbouring club, Jack Sinclair.

Bill Hewitt gave an introduction and welcomed guests and visitors.

Yea members were particularly appreciative of the work that Bill and Betty Hewitt had done in preparing the Yea Shire Hall for the Charter Night.

International flags were suspended from the balcony, graced the stairs to the stage, and also were part of a backdrop.

Rotary Club bannerettes from around the world were displayed. Blue and gold table napkins graced the tables, siginifying the colours of

Rotary International. A souvenir program and newspaper-style bulletin prepared by (Ash Long’s newspaper business) were also part of table arrangements, along with signs proclaiming this year’s Rotary theme: ‘Rotary Brings Hope’.

The Shire President, Cr Arnie Exton, responded to the welcome, and said he was pleased that Yea could host the visitors.

Cr Exton said that the Rotary Club of Yea would join the other service organisations in the district as great assets in the Shire.

Past District Governor Lyons Kerans of Corowa proposed a toast to Rotary International with newly installed District Governor Leo Gorman (from Seymour) giving an excellent response.

The Sergeant-at-Arms of the Yea club, Ash Long, joined with John Sinclair, to perform an entertaining segment.`

District Governor’s Special Representative Reg Scott gave a report on the establishment of the Rotary Club of Yea.

The Provisional Club was formed on March 6 this year, with the charter granted on May 1.

Immediate Past District Governor Mike Reiner gave an address on the work of Rotary International.

This was followed by the induction of Charter President Daryl Call-

ander and the presentation of the charter which was shown proudly to the audience.

The President gave thanks for the assistance to all concerned, he then inducted his colleague charter members: Ian Bell, Ross Bryant, Graeme Broadbent, Graeme Clements, Tim Dale, Clarry Davison, Gary Fitzgerald, Les Hall, Peter Hauser, David Lawson, Don Lawson, Ash Long, Ric Long, John McCormack, Bernie Quinlan, Adrian Sier, John Tainton and Ray Watson.

The three other Charter members will be inducted at a later date. They are Philip Basser, Neil Beer and David Evans.

Reg Scott then inducted each of the members and their wives, who were given name badges.

Folios were presented to the Yea members.

Presentations were made from other clubs and these included gifts with cash. The Rotary Club of Alexandra have sponsored the formation of the Yea club to the extent of $1000.

Vice-President Adrian Sier acknowledged the presentations. He said the best gift that anyone could give or receive was to be present amongst friends on the night.

The Rotary Parting Song was sung, then Roy Fox conducted the singing of Advance Australia Fair (twice).

● ● ● ● An early meeting of the Rotary Club of Yea held at the Royal Mail Hotel. Centre: Norm Berndt is Sergeant-at-Arms collecting fines. At left: Charter member Les Hall. At right: Charter member Neil Beer with the Rev. Stefan Slucki.

● ● Adrian Sier and David Evans were to become popular Presidents of the Rotary Club of Yea

● ● By Ash Long, a Charter Member of the Rotary Club of Yea (1986), Past President (1993-94), and Paul Harris Fellow

● Ian Welch, 1986 President of the Rotary Club of Alexandra, proposed the Loyal Toast. File Photo.

● ● ● ● Master of Ceremonies on Charter Night was Roy Fox

● ● District Governor 1986-87, Leo Gorman

● ● ● ● Cr Arnie Exton, Yea Shire President

● ● Charter member Bernie Quinlan

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Observer Melbourne Lovatts Crossword No 3

AcrossAcrossDownDown

1. Beaten convincingly

6. Mischief-makers

11. Residing

15. War memorial

20. Uncooked

21. Yellow pigment

22. Cremation vase

23. Heater

24. South Africa's capital

25. Consecrated as priest

27. Coat-of-arms study

28. Window ledge

29. Take shot from cover

31. Light beams

32. Bouffant or beehive

36. Opening

37. Struggle

38. Rise

41. Strength

44. Capital of Japan

45. Unwanted plants

48. Toronto's province

49. View

52. Trendiest

56. Dangers

57. Deadened

58. Divert (4,3)

61. Make beloved

62. Arctic people

63. Addis ..., Ethiopia

64. More uncivil

65. Shockingly

66. Pasta dumpling dish

67. Utilised (resources)

71. Bathroom floor & wall specialist

73. Welsh dog

75. Enter uninvited

80. Citizen of Glasgow or Edinburgh

82. Movie hero, ... Jones

83. Singer, ... Redding

85. House

86. Source

88. Italian seaport

90. Body preserver

91. Derogatory

93. Up to date, ... of

94. Penetrating

95. Operation, ... procedure

96. Innocence

97. Synthetic fertiliser ingredient

99. Plant, ... vera

100. Gave therapy to

104. Refurbish with weapons

105. Baby grand

106. Lose feathers

107. Greets

111. Brawl

113. Mr & ...

114. Filled pastry

115. Live

117. Transfix

118. Authority (3-2)

121. Evade decision

122. Snouts

125. Vehicle's wheel cover

126. Assents with head

127. In contact with

129. Raise stakes, up the ...

131. Jane Austen novel

132. Staffed

135. Muslim leader

136. Energy

139. False

140. XC

144. Animal welfare group (1,1,1,1,1)

145. Spurs

146. Ruined Inca city, ... Picchu

147. Amaze

148. Polluted shower (4,4)

149. Peru beast

150. Cambodia's ... Penh

152. Poisonous tree-snake

154. Midday sleep

157. Minor quarrel

158. Young frog

162. Soccer net

163. Saunters

166. Bright (future)

167. Soviet states (1,1,1,1)

169. Tennis great, Arthur ...

171. Home stereo (2-2)

172. Turkey's capital

173. Kingdom

175. Frenzied

176. Below

179. Travelling stagehand

180. Fashion sense

182. Anticipated arrival (1,1,1)

183. Universal age

184. Great sea

186. Supposition

189. Holy city

190. Distance runner

191. West African land

192. Guided (to seat)

196. Female horse

197. Spine part

198. Misbehaves (5,2)

199. Assignments

201. Picketing workers

202. Flat bun

203. The ... Tenors

204. Lesson

205. Sufficient

208. Large indefinite number

210. Flute category

211. ..., taut & terrific

212. Constantly busy (2,3,2)

213. Musical symbol

215. Chroniclers

219. Donkeys

221. Dot/dash code

223. Repainted (car)

227. Ape or monkey

228. Bestows (knowledge)

230. Elsewhere excuse

231. Nocturnal hours

232. Dealt with

233. More sacred

234. Least frank

238. Yeast

239. Hoped (to)

240. Complied, ... by the rules

243. Off correct path

246. Reporter

247. Moroccan port

250. Angry & flustered (3,2)

251. Refute

253. Unites

256. Alexander's ... Band

257. Frisks (about)

258. Rationally

262. ... & papa

263. Duchess of York

266. Calf flesh

268. Fine particles

269. Keep up

270. Tonic (4-2-2)

271. Unorthodox person

272. Football arbiter

273. River creature

274. Just a minute, wait a ...

275. Sang alpine-style

276. Prisoner's shackles (3,5)

277. Thaws

278. Poured

1. Portable lamp

2. Half-diameters

3. Steam burn

4. Cupid

5. Bold

7. Adversaries

8. Glorify

9. Boneless lamb cut

10. Peruse quickly

11. Lower

12. Man/beast

13. Slimmest

14. Sets alight

15. Dr Jekyll's alter ego (2,4)

16. ... & twos

17. Russian mountains

18. Actor, ... Murphy

19. Trifled

24. Conspire

26. Tied

30. Vexed

33. Loss of memory

34. Straighten again

35. Foreboding

38. Normally (2,1,4)

39. Wilder (of scheme)

40. Small lumps

42. Promissory notes (1,1,2)

43. Genetic mixes

46. Conclusions

47. Indian pulse dish

49. Plug converter

50. June birthstone

51. Mortification

53. From Mali or Kenya

54. Downy duck

55. Wood-eating insect

59. Keeping clear of

60. Fruit farms

67. Water outlet

68. Regret

69. Bewitch

70. Seclusion

72. Schedule

74. Irons or putters (4,5)

76. Meekness

77. Of the skull

78. Side of sofa

79. Wasp relatives

81. Likens

84. Cuts off

87. Mutually held (2,6)

89. Row

91. Informal photo

92. Austrian or Czech

98. Double bike

101. Cuban dance

102. Anew

103. Edits (text)

108. Within reach (2,4)

109. Built-up (zone)

110. Praise highly

112. Ridiculously

116. Give permanent fame to

119. Agreement to end hostilities

120. Doleful

123. Female hormone

124. Wipe out

128. Cotton tops (1-6)

130.Locals

132. Gestures without words

133. Rock face recess

134. Explode

137. Longed (for)

138. Potato variety

141. Koran religion

142. Internet message

143. Long time

151. Hassle

153. Scottish children

155. Internal

156. Group of bees

159. Tank's weaponry

160. Boards

161. Tear jaggedly

164. Find fault with

165. Select band

168. Smudging

170. Ravenously

173. Recall

174. Familiarises

177. Insulin takers

178. Edge of highway

181. Stencil

185. Bidding sales

186. Teen idol (3,4)

187. Stretchy tape

188. Underwriter

193. Secret collector

194. Willingly

195. Feared greatly

200. Closing

201. System of drainage

206. Romantic US falls

207. Home for terminally-ill

208. Tiny amounts of time

209. Vigilantly

211. Tsar's wife

214. Naval escort ship

216. As a group (2,5)

217. Speaking publicly 218. Falters

220. Space film genre (3-2)

222. Radio acknowledgment

224. Mercury & Pluto

225. Born Free author, Joy ...

226. Optic orb

229. Cleaning agent, caustic ...

232. Meals list

235. Sticking quality

236. Bury (corpse)

237. Blue gem

241. Annoying

242. Aimless person

244. Game hunter

245. Bowmen

248. Bigoted

249. Light-rail car

251. Please reply (1,1,1,1)

252. Smiled brightly

253. Humid

254. Writer, ... Dahl

255. On a par

259. Rink

260. Decree

261. Coupled

262. Inconsiderable

264. Colony insects

265. Copied

267. Frilly fabric

By Rob Foenander info@robfomusic.com.au

14 Years

■ Our Kinda Country and Flanagans Royal Exchange Hotel, Traralgon, will join together again as they present their annual Royal Childrens Hospital fundraiser. Musicians and local artists Chris Newman, Bill Rowley, Wayne and Helen, Margaret Wilson, Rob Freeman, Bryce Wright, Margaret and Linton, Karla Clancy and Evan Platschinda will donate their wonderful talents to raise funds for the renown RCH. There will also be an auction and 25 Easter baskets in a raffle. All to take place on April 13 from 12 Noon onwards for the 14th year.

What’s Left

■ Melbourne singer-songwriter Shani Weiss has released What's Left, the second single from her upcoming EP. Written a week before she and her family left Israel for Australia, the deeply personal folk track reflects their journey into the unknown. With no job, network, or family awaiting them, they arrived with just suitcases, a guitar, and a pram. The song is a powerful tribute to resilience, new beginnings, and the courage to chase a dream, says her media release. More info shaniweissmusic.com

Tommy in Melb.

■ Guitar great Tommy Emmanuel will return to Australia for a number of shows and Melbourne fans can see the Certified Guitar Player and Grammy Award winner at Hamer Hall on May 25-26. Tickets at the Arts Centre - Rob Foenander

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

New intake of acrobatic talent at NICA

■ The National Institute of Circus Arts (NICA) welcomes a new intake of acrobatic talent to study for the Bachelor of Circus Arts degree - the only one of its kind in Australia, attracting nation-wide talent.

The new students hail from circus, dance and gymnastics schools across Australia and New Zealand, standing on the solid training foundations from the Flying Fruit Fly Circus (NSW), Byron Bay Circus Arts (NSW), Women's Circus (VIC), Warehouse Circus (ACT), The South Australian Circus Centre (SA), Just Acrobatics (QLD), Jolletes Gymnastics Mandurah (WA), Wellington Youth Circus (NZ), plus many more.

Shayla Ashton from Wellington, NZ, relocated to Melbourne for NICA’s Certificate IV program in 2024, a move she said was “a big transition”.

Of training in the Bachelor program she says, “It is a big step up from the Certificate IV and a lot more challenging than I was expecting, but it’s great because we are pushing ourselves and seeing improvement.”

Tarnee Doyle from Mandurah, WA, says, “The training is as difficult as I was expecting it to be, I’d spent the months leading up mentally preparing for this.”

CEO of NICA, Simona Jobbagy, says "It’s inspiring to see NICA buzzing with new talent, full of ambition and potential.”

This was made possible through the new partnership with the Australian College of The Arts (Collarts) in December last year, as NICA's new education partner.

Sam Jacob, CEO of Collarts , said: "This collaboration strengthens opportunities for emerging circus artists, ensuring they receive world-class training and support.

With a dynamic new board in place, we’re excited to see NICA thrive and continue its legacy of excellence in performance and innovation."

In the spirit of new beginnings, NICA announces the appointment of a new board who will help guide NICA’s vision and future growth. Their expertise, leadership, and passion for the arts will play a crucial role in shaping the next chapter of circus education and performance in Australia - Contributed

Flashes

■ Christian Zappone has transitioned to a new role as Senior Reporter covering aviation at The Age

■ Jay Clark has been named as Chief Football Writer for the Herald Sun, following Mark Robinson's retirement ■ Adam Suckling has been appointed Deputy Chair of the Australian Communications and Media Authority for a five-year term.

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

● ● ● ● Collarts

CEO Sam Jacob and National Institute of Circus Arts (NICA) Director Simona Jobbagy discuss the new home for Australia's only Bachelor of Circus Arts - Collarts, at 3RRR.

Tapas Bar Home-Made Desserts

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Victorian Pictorial

● ● ● ● Scouts River House, Ivanhoe

● ● ● ● Ivanhoe Public Golf Course. 1976.

● ● ● ● Looking towards the Yarra from Ivanhoe station.

● ● Panorama from the quarry

● Local Ivanhoe football team. 1935.

● ● ● ● Ivanhoe bus (Deepdene-Mont Park).

● ● Panorama of Ivanhoe

SCORES FROM LATEST FINALS

Amateurs

■ Premier Firsts. Finals. Round 3. St Kilda 1st XI 4/264 v Richmond 1st XI 10/260. Carlton 1st XI 10/177 v Camberwell Magpies 1st XI 10/54.

■ Premier Seconds. Grand Final. TwoDay. Melbourne University 2nd XI 10/127 v Fitzroy Doncaster 2nd XI 3/128.

■ Premier Thirds. Grand Final. Two-Day. Prahran 3rd XI 6/199 v Melbourne 3rd XI 10/ 198.

■ Premier Fourths. Grand Final. TwoDay. Melbourne University 4th XI 10/178 v Prahran 4th XI 4/179.

Sub-District

■ North-East First XI. Finals Round2. Two-Day. Preston 1st XI 3/198 v Brunswick 1st XI 9/197. Noble Park 1st XI 10/235 v St Bernard's OC 1st XI 9/160.

■ North-East Second XI. Finals Round2. Two-Day. Mt Waverley 2nd XI 10/82 v Balwyn 2nd XI 10/226. Bayswater 2nd XI 10/85 v Brunswick 2nd XI 4/159.

■ North-West Third XI Division 1. Final. Two Day. Werribee 3rd XI 10/114 v Brunswick 3rd XI 9/116.

■ North-West Third XI Division 2. Final. Two-Day. Taylors Lakes 3rd XI 10/184 v Altona 3rd XI 10/84.

■ North-West Fourth XI Division 1. Finals. Round 2. One-Day. Brunswick 4th XI 9/103 v Hoppers Crossing 4th XI 10/102.

■ North-West Fourth XI Division 2. Finals. Round 2. Two-Day.. Coburg 4th XI 10/ 169 v Strathmore 4th XI 10/134.

■ South-East Third XI Division 1. Finals. Round 2. Two-Day. Oakleigh 3rd XI 10/81 v Caulfield 3rd XI 10/93 & 3/99.

■ South-East Third XI Division 2. inals. Round 2. Two-Day. Elsternwick 3rd XI 10/ 276 v Port Melbourne 3rd XI 10/89.

■ South-East Fourth XI Division 1. Finals. Round 2. Two-Day. Mt Waverley 4th XI 10/203 v Oakleigh 4th XI 10/122.

■ South-East Fourth XI Division 2. Finals. Round 2. Two-Day. Ormond 4th XI 9/ 255 v Noble Park 4th XI 10/187.

■ South-West First XI. Finals. Round 2. Two Day. Hoppers Crossing 1st XI 9/292 v Oakleigh 1st XI 10/253. Brighton 1st XI 8/246 v Caulfield 1st XI 6/266.

■ South-West Second XI. Finals. Round 2. Two-Day. Werribee 2nd XI 7/325 v Hoppers Crossing 2nd XI 10/101. Caulfield 2nd XI 10/162 v Brighton 2nd XI 10/152.

Diamond Valley

■ Barclay Shield. Grand Final. Two-Day. Rosanna 1st XI 9/209 v Bundoora 1st XI 10/ 127.

■ Money Shield. Grand Final. Two-Day. Rosebank 1st XI 9/201 v Eltham 1st XI 10/ 128.

■ Mash Shield. Grand Final. Two-Day. Rivergum 1st XI 10/81 v Mernda 1st XI 10/ 143.

■ B-Grade. Grand Final. Two-Day. North Eltham Wanderers 2nd XI 10/142 v Riverside 2nd XI 10/136.

■ C-Grade. Grand Final. Two-Day. Lower Plenty 2nd XI 10/81 v Research Eltham Collegians 2nd XI 6/106.

■ D-Grade. Grand Final. Two-Day. Bundoora 2nd XI 10/118 v South Morang 2nd XI 10/94.

■ E-Grade. Grand Final. Two-Day. Lower Plenty 3rd XI 8/198 v Banyule 3rd XI 9/149.

■ F1-Grade. Grand Final. Two-Day. Greensborough 4th XI 10/217 v Plenty 3rd XI 10/133.

■ F2-Grade. Grand Final. Two-Day. South Morang 3rd XI 5/123 v Dennis 3rd XI 10/121.

■ F3-Grade. Grand Final. Two-Day. Lower Plenty 4th XI 10/128 v Greensborough 5th XI 9/170.

■ G1 East-Grade. Grand Final. One-Day. Lower Eltham 3rd XI 7/214 v Riverside 6th XI 10/177

■ G1 West-Grade. Grand Final. OneDay. Thomastown United 3rd XI 10/118 v Dennis 4th XI 10/99

■ G2-Grade. Grand Final. One-Day. North Eltham Wanderers 5th XI 4/163 v Macleod 4th XI 10/162. ■ G3-Grade. Grand Final. One-Day. Montmorency 6th XI 5/150 v Diamond Creek 6th XI 7/149.

Eastern

■ Dunstan Shield. Grand Final. Two-Day. Mont Albert 1st XI 10/115 v North Balwyn Bulls 1st XI 5/116.

■ Wright Shield. Grand Final. Two-Day. Deepdene Bears 1st XI 10/151 v East Malvern Tooronga 1st XI 10/159.

■ A Turf. Grand Final. Two-Day. Surrey Hills 1st XI 10/167 v Hawthorn Boroondara 1st XI 10/144.

■ B Turf. Grand Final. Two-Day. Balwyn Saints & Blasters Senior Men 1st XI 5/147 v Richmond Union 1st XI 10/145.

■ C Turf. Grand Final. Two-Day. Bulleen 2nd XI 8/216 v East Malvern Tooronga 2nd XI 10/125

■ D Turf. Grand Final. Two-Day. Edinburgh 2nd XI 9/173 v Richmond City 2nd XI 9/141.

■ E Turf. Grand Final. Two-Day. Mont Albert 3rd XI 3/66 v Hawthorn Boroondara 3rd XI 10/60.

■ F Turf. Grand Final. One-Day. Bulleen 3rd XI 8/133 v Richmond Union 2nd XI 7/134.

■ Jim MacGibbon Shield. Grand Final. Two-Day. Trinity Willison CC 1st XI 10/205 v Burwood Unt. Canterbury Senior Men 1st XI 10/85.

■ Kevin Burt Shield. Grand Final. TwoDay. West Ivanhoe United 1st XI 10/246 v Mount Waverley Catholics 1st XI 9/96.

■ John Menzies and Keith Mackay Shield. Grand Final. Two-Day. North Alphington 9/173 v Toorak-Prahran 2nd XI 9/ 120.

■ A Synthetic. Grand Final. Two-Day. Mulgrave 3rd XI 10/253 v Mount Waverley Uniting 1st XI 10/215.

■ B Synthetic. Grand Final. Two-Day. Glen Waverley 3rd XI 2/85 v St. Pauls Oakleigh Districts 2nd XI 10/82.

■ LOC1. Grand Final. One-Day. Deepdene Uniting 2nd XI 4/200 v Malvern Valley 1st XI 8/199

■ LOC2. Grand Final. One-Day. AYC Harlequins 1st XI 7/168 v Eagles 4th XI 6/199

■ LOC3. Grand Final. One-Day. Salesian 1st XI 9/149 v East Doncaster 5th XI 10/148

■ LOC4. Grand Final. One-Day. Ashwood 3rd XI 10/117 v Salvation Army Waverley 1st XI 10/117

■ LOC5. Grand Final. One-Day. Mount Waverley Uniting 2nd XI 10/182 v Northcote United 2nd XI 5/213

■ LOC6. Grand Final. One-Day. Salesian 2nd XI 0/100 v STC South Camberwell 4th XI 9/99

■ LOC7. Grand Final. One-Day. Mount Waverley Catholics 3rd XI 10/128 v Richmond Union 3rd XI 10/115

■ LOC8. Grand Final. One-Day. Monash University 2nd XI 7/84 v Ashburton Willows 4th XI 10/80

■ LOC9. Grand Final. One-Day. East Doncaster 7th XI 9/123 v Richmond City 4th XI 10/105.

Morn. Peninsula

■ Provincial Firsts. Semi-Finals. TwoDay. Langwarrin 1sts 10/179 v Red Hill 1sts 8/212. Pines 1sts 10/167 v Dromana 1sts 10/ 137.

■ Peninsula Firsts. Semi-Finals. TwoDay. Rosebud Senior Men 1sts 2/149 v Long Island 1sts 10/148. Mornington 1sts 8/167 v Mt Eliza Senior Men 1st X1 9/121.

■ District Firsts. Semi-Finals. Two-Day. Carrum Downs 1sts 10/131 v Boneo 1sts 9/ 133. Balnarring 1sts 6/237 v Flinders 1sts 8/ 235.

■ Sub-District Firsts. Semi-Finals. TwoDay. Tyabb 1sts 8/261 v Tootgarook 1sts 10/ 186. Rye 1sts 10/118 v Frankston YCW 1sts 10/78.

■ Provincial Seconds. Semi-Finals. TwoDay. Pines 2nds 10/153 v Baden Powell 2nds

10/99. Sorrento 2nds 6/239 v Langwarrin 2nds 10/200.

■ Peninsula Seconds. Semi-Finals. TwoDay. Long Island 2nds 1/60 v Mornington 2nds 10/58. Mt Eliza Senior Men 2nd X1 10/157 v Somerville Senior Men 2nds 8/159.

■ District Seconds. Semi-Finals. TwoDay. Crib Point 2nds 10/141 v Balnarring 2nds 10/96. Flinders 2nds 7-d/135 v Baxter 2nds 10/129.

■ Sub-District Seconds. Semi-Finals. Two-Day. Frankston YCW 2nds 6/172 v Ballam Park 2nds 10/171. Delacombe Park 2nds 10/ 229 v Mt Martha 2nds 10/138.

North Metro

■ Jika Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Keon Park CC 1st XI 10/137 v Preston Baseballers CC 1st XI 7/279

■ Jack Quick Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Fiji Victorian CC 1st XI 10/124 v Olympic Colts CC 1st XI 10/194

■ Jack Kelly Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Northern Socials CC 1st XI 10/92 & 6-d/ 136 v Fiji Victorian CC 2nd XI 10/100 & 5/62

■ B-Grade. Grand Final. Two Day. Preston YCW District CC 1st XI 10/215 v Victorian Nepalese CA CC 2/0. Abandoned.

■ C-Grade. Grand Final. Two Day. Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 3rd XI 7/304 v Fairfield CC 2nd XI 10/45

■ Robert Young DODC. One Day. Camrea CC OD 9/220 v Olympic Colts CC OD 10/107.

Ringwood District

■ Bill Wilkins Cup. Grand Final. Two Day. St Andrews 1XI 10/184 v Wonga Park 1XI 10/ 153.

■ Stuart Newey Plate. Grand Final. Two Day. South Warrandyte 1XI 10/251 v Mt Evelyn 1XI 9/268.

■ Steve Pascoe Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Yarra Junction 1XI 7/162 v Norwood 2XI 9-d/158

■ Pat Meehan Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Wonga Park 2XI 10/112 v East Ringwood 2XI 10/174

■ Ian Spencer Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Heatherdale 2XI 10/147 v Warranwood 2XI 9/178

■ David Beatty Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Heathwood 2XI 8/72 v Seville Burras 2XI 10/71

■ Don Smith Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Ainslie Park 3XI 10/99 v Wandin 1XI 10/ 145

■ John Springett Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Yarra Junction 2XI 10/87 v Kilsyth 3XI 10/122

■ A-Grade. Grand Final. Two Day. Croydon North 2XI 10/132 v Powelltown 1XI 10/106

■ B-Grade. Grand Final. Two Day. Mooroolbark 3XI 10/148 v Heatherdale 3XI 6/ 152.

■ C-Grade. Grand Final. Two Day. Chirnside Park 4XI 10/177 v Kilsyth 4XI 6/180

■ D-Grade. Grand Final. Two Day. Mooroolbark 4XI 10/148 v East Ringwood 4XI 9/165

■ E-Grade. Grand Final. Two Day. St Andrews 6XI 10/136 v Wandin 2XI 5/137

South East

■ Longmuir Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. West Bentleigh 1 10/191 v Bentleigh Uniting 1 7/195

■ Woolnough Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Washington Park 1 7/175 v Mackie 1 10/173

■ Quiney Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. Omega 2 9/202 v Carnegie South 1 7/205

■ Pullen Shield. Grand Final. Two Day. East Sandringham 2 10/309 v Highett West 1 7/357

Western Suburbs

■ A-Grade. Grand Final. One Day. Williams Landing SC Senior Men 1 8/151 v Tarneit Central D1 8/150.

Your Stars with

Kerry Kulkens

Presented by Sarah Kulkens, Australia’s Trusted Psychic Family

ARIES: (March 21- April 20)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 1.6.5.2. Lotto Numbers: 2.5.12.26.36.39. It is possible that you may encounter challenges with communication during this period, which could lead to uncomfortable or embarrassing situations. To relieve stress and potentially improve your luck, it may be worth considering participating in games of chance.

TAURUS: (April 21- May 20)

Lucky Colour: Orange Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 2.6.8.5. Lotto Numbers: 1.15.24.40.22.8. Your schedule is packed with activities, leaving you with limited time to complete everything. It is important to pace yourself and avoid getting overwhelmed, as taking breaks and resting is crucial. Despite the busy schedule, your social life is thriving and filled with enjoyable experiences.

GEMINI: (May 21- June 21)

Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 1.3.5.9. Lotto Numbers: 1.15.26.34.40.33. During this period, you have the potential to make a favourable impression on individuals of importance. However, it is advisable to avoid going overboard with your attempts at entertaining them. It would be wise to engage in a conversation with a family member and try to come to an understanding.

CANCER: (June 22- July 22)

Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.6. Lotto Numbers: 1.15.26.34.4.22. It's important to resist the urge to celebrate prematurely, as it could potentially harm your prospects of being promoted. To improve your chances, take the time to carefully evaluate and understand the problems at work. By gaining more experience in your role, you'll be better equipped to navigate any challenges that arise and position yourself for success.

LEO: (July 23- August 22)

Lucky Colour: Cream Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1.6.9.8. Lotto Numbers: 9.8.15.45.32.6

You may have noticed that the problem that has been causing you concern is gradually resolving on its own. In fact, you have been presented with a plethora of new and exciting possibilities that could potentially change your life for the better. This could be the perfect moment for you to carefully evaluate your options and make an informed decision about which path to take.

VIRGO: (August 23- September 23)

Lucky Colour: Violet Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.3. Lotto Numbers: 2.15.26.34.40.5 As the days unfold, you will find yourself with ample time to indulge in your favourite pastimes or explore new ones. This period will also be marked by a heightened receptivity towards your ideas, making it the perfect time to share them with those around you.

LIBRA: (September 24- October 23)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.3. Lotto Numbers: 5.12.23.36.39.4. As you navigate through this period, it is crucial to approach situations with diplomacy and tact. Strive to strike a balance between being pleasant and not appearing overly sweet. It's important to stay mindful of potential pressures to make decisions before you are fully prepared.

SCORPIO: (October 24- November 22)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.6. Lotto Numbers: 2.12.26.35.40.33. As you navigate your social life, it's imperative to prioritize self-care to avoid feeling overwhelmed and drained. Introducing a new diet or exercise regimen can have a positive impact on your physical and mental wellbeing, helping you feel rejuvenated and ready to take on new challenges. Be prepared for significant developments in your career and financial situation during this promising period, where success awaits.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23- December 20)

Lucky Colour: Peach Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 4.6.8.9. Lotto Numbers: 8.15.9.6.21.33. As you navigate through this period, you may find that the spotlight is on you. It's important to be mindful of how you present yourself during this time as others may be paying close attention. Furthermore, a new interest or activity may capture your attention and require a significant amount of your time and energy. Be sure to prioritize and manage your time effectively to make the most of this period of growth and discovery.

CAPRICORN: (December 21- January 19)

Lucky Colour: White Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.8. Lotto Numbers: 2.15.26.34.40.11. During this enchanting phase, you can expect to receive a lot of admiration and interest from individuals of the opposite gender. If you find yourself drawn towards someone, it's advisable to maintain a composed demeanour and avoid any overt displays of eagerness.

AQUARIUS: (January 20- February 19)

Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 8.9.5.2. Lotto Numbers: 8.15.29.34.40.11

You might just be in luck when it comes to searching for a missing item or finding great deals while shopping. Additionally, you could have the opportunity to make new connections with interesting people who can introduce you to exciting experiences and novel activities.

PISCES: (February 20- March 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2.6.5.4. Lotto Numbers: 5.12.24.45.40.33. The near future may hold an exciting surprise celebration for you, possibly involving someone close to you. Additionally, you may receive news from a distant location that could spark your imagination and lead to new plans, resulting in more happiness and fulfilment in your life.

(Back load Specialist. Conditions apply)

24 HOURS7 DAYS A WEEK

(Scrap bin available)

● ● The Weir, Lower Side, Yarrawonga. 1950

● ● St Andrew’s Kirk, Ballarat

● ● ● ● Entrance to ‘The Chalet’, Warburton. 1940.

● ● The main road, Olinda. 1945. ● ● ● ● View at Mt Dandenong, 1925.

● ● ● ● The Great Ocean Road, Wye River

● ● Near ‘Elephant Rock’, Flinders. 1921.

● ● Steam Tram. Back Beach, Sorrento. 1914.

AUSTRALIAN CUP THIS SATURDAY

■ Some of the nation’s best staying horses are likely to contest the Australian Cup to be run over 2000 metres at Flemington.

The field could be one of the best to go around if most accept for the big day.

The money has come for a couple of smart ones in Tom Kitten and Atishu

James Cummings, trainer of the smart Tom Kitten, is confident that he will run a big race.

His run in the Futurity Stakes at Caulfield proved his worth.

He rattled home to just get beaten by the smart Mr Brightside.

We all know how good he is, have a look at his record and the earnings in the bank.

Tom Kitten then got even in the All Star Mile. Earlier the bookies had the former international, Buckaroo, favourite, though he hasn’t run for a while.

He finished ninth back in the Melbourne Cup last year after drawing the car park in the big race.

One thing about Buckaroo , you will get a good run for your money as he is a tenacious galloper.

Leading trainer, Chris Waller, is confident about his top mare getting the chocolates after some big runs and she always puts in.

She finished seventh in the highly rated Apollo Stakes in Sydney on February 15, and the run was better than it looked.

The smart mare, Fan Girl, another of the team won the Apollo, beating Lindermann, who goes alright, and the best mare racing in Australia, Via Sistina.

One that will be there when the whips are cracking will be the Ciaron Maher trained horse, Another Wil.

He certainly put in when he got up to beat the current champion weight for age star, Mr Brightside, in the C.F.Orr Stakes at Caulfield

Another Wil is a five-year-old by the top American sire, Street Boss, who has produced many a top-class horse here in Australia. He was unlucky not to have run a place in the All-Star-Mile, when Jamie Melham, got overbalanced.

From his 15 starts he has won nine, with two seconds and a third and is one the best going around.

Duke De Sessa is another who travels all right, prepared by Ciaron Maher, is a smart type too, having won the Caulfield Cup in fine style with Harry Coffey aboard.

Of late he won the JRA Plate in fine style at 1600 metres over 1600 metres.

At Flemington he ran a good second to the former international galloper, Middle Earth, having his first run for Ciaron Maher in the Australian Cup Prelude.

The good mare, Zardozi, prepared by James Cummings is top-class and will be hard to beat here.

A winner of the Victorian Oaks two years ago she is all class and always puts in. Distance will suit here and she will be right in this field.

The Chris Waller mare, Atishu, failed to fire in the All-Star-Mile.

The Caulfield and Melbourne Cup winner,

Ted Ryan

Without A Fight, is one to have to give a chance as he is class.

Back at Flemington back in Melbourne Cup last year he ran in the McKinnon at Flemington in good style.

Then you the smart sprinter-miler in I Wish I Win, prepared by Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman, and they certainly know what it’s all about.

The horse is one of the best going around, having taken on all of the best and always gives plenty of fight, you can’t leave him out.

The Hawkes team horse Ceowulf failed to fire in the Canterbury Stakes over 1300 metres, but is better than that.

Tom Kitten evened up with Mr Brightside in the All-Star-Mile, and will be hard to beat in anything he has a go at.

Deny Knowledge atoned for a last start run, with a good win in the Victoria Gold Cup over 2000 metres and will be well suited here.

Light Infantryman, from the Ciaron Maher team, ran a good third up in class behind, Tom Kitten, and Mr Brightside.

It’s a pretty tough vent with the cream Australia’s top horse with a couple of exceptions to go around.

Cummings bows out

■ I was saddened to learn that one of Australia’s great trainers has decided to leave the training ranks.

Anthony Cummings, part of the Cummings clan ,was going to appeal, but now has decided to give it a miss after the shock decision by New South Wales Racing to revoke his licence to train, virtually ending the Group One winning trainer’s career.

Cummings pulled the pin, as his son Edward, also a trainer, who has the smart mare, Daius , who ran a big race in the Cox Plate a couple of years ago, was trying to help the family’s Leilani Lodge Stable at Randwick.

It is understood that Cummings agreed to withdraw his appeal following the advice of his Legal Eagle.

He was then given seven days to vacate his Leilani Lodge Stables after Racing NSW revoked his licence to train.

Leilani Lodge has been synonymous with the Cummings Family for five decades.

His brother, Bart, established his training base at the inner-city racecourse in the early eighties.

Horses of the calibre of So You Think, Saintly, Shaftesbury Avenue, Beau Zam, Sky Chase, Campaign King and Dane Ripper called High Street home.

I had the pleasure over the years of interviewing Anthony many times when I was with Channel Nine.

They were always obliging with their outstanding knowledge, and I learnt a lot quickly from the stars.

- Ted Ryan

Middle Earth.Racing Photos.

Incorporating the ‘Melbourne

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• 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.

BOOKS. Health, well-being, spirituality. CDs, DVDs. Doreen Virtue, Louise Hay, Denise Linn, many others. 31 CDs, 12 books. Will send photo if interested. 4 DVDs. VGC. $250 ONO. Bittern. 0459 558 055. F-M

BOOKS

As new c ond. Fiction by J. Archer, W. Smith, F. Forsyth, J. Graham, D. Brown, C. Cussler, T. Clancy, etc. Some complete sets. Most hard covers. $4 some, $3 some. Mt Eliza. 0412 830 241. H-O

CANE CHAIRS. Cane Table. GC. $20. Keon Park. 9469 4558. H-O

CATTLE

Charolais cross cows, beefbred, with Speckle Park calves at foot. In calf again. Can deliver. $1750 each. Yarra Valley. 0418 342 848.F-I

CRIME FICTION BOOKS. Various authors. Harlen Coben, James Patterson plus others. GC. $2, or 3 for $5. Mill Park. 052 665 276. H-O

ERGONOMIC Swivel Chair. Red. Best Cond. $40. Keon Park. 9469 4558.H-O

FREE PHOTO ADS AdvertiseFree.com.au

9.

Will sell $60. Ferntree Gully. 0407 533 560. H-O

FORD AU II SEDAN. Much money spent. No rust. All Fairmont options. Very clean. V8. Near new tyres. 2AN3XE. Original cond. $8000. Seymour. 0419 881 573.F-M

GARDEN: Two concrete vintage statues, one Greek lady 66cm, one bashful child 59cm. Also one Buddha 43cm. Also baby deer and four plaques, assorted designs. Can send photos. VGC. $350. 0459 558 055. F-M

KEYBOARD STAND. Roland. As new. $50. Cheltenham. 0438 533 123.F-M

LAURA ASHLEY cotton coverlet set. Size: 220cm x 240cm. Plus 2 pillow cases. Pale blue with thin white stripes. Never used. EC. $40. Ashburton. 9885 F-M

TYRE CHANGER. Little used, complete with instructions, purchaser to cxollect. GC. $90. Doreen. 9717 3465. F-M

Pride Go. Mobility Chair. Joystick driven. Only months old. Paid $3700. Will sell $1800 ONO. Like brand new. Phone John, 0418 583 120. F-G

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

MEMOIR by Owen Douglas. From early life to times as a Psychiatric Nurse. (‘An outstanding book’ North Central Review’, Oct 2024) paperback and ebook. I grew up in Dundas St. Preston. Attended Preston South Primary and went to Northcote High School. At Amazon.com.au F-M

NEWSPAPERS. Herald; end of First World War; start of the Second World War. Original papers, worn. Offers. Seymour. 0419 881 573.

F-M

OLD Bike Australasia 11, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 37, 40, 41, 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.

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 WELLNESS Circulation Stimulator. $20 or offer. VGC. Frankston. 9789 9634.F-M

SUBARU Rego Plates. B/ W Slimline: MISUBI. VGC. $1500 or offer. Frankston. 9789 9634.F-M

TELESCOPE. 76/700EG. Premium. 76 mirror diameter. 700mm focal length. 28x-233x magnification. Equatoirial mount. As new. $60 ONO. Cheltenham. 0438 533 123.F-M

WHEELCHAIR. Electric. Hubang HBLD2-B. Light- weight, easy to manoeu- ver, strong battery life. Per- fect for everyday use. Sellng due to owner pass- ing away. GC. $1000. Thomastown. 0421 819 286.F-M COMMUNITY GROUPS can advertise their upcoming events in The Local Paper, without advertising charges. Go to the What’s On - Free Ad Form section at the www.Local Paper.com.au website

Sat., Mar. 22. 10am2pm. Watsonia Primary School Open Day and Fair. Join us for a special day of celebration at our School Open Day and Fair, marking an incredible milestone—our 65th Birthday. Explore our vibrant school community with guided tours, showcasing our facilities and curriculum for prospective families. Enjoy a variety of fun rides, delicious food trucks, live music, stalls, and a historical display highlighting our 65year legacy of excellence. The day will be filled excitement, discovery, and a chance to connect with our past and present. Don’t miss this memorable event as we celebrate 65 years of learning, growth, and achievement. Free entry. Meagher St, Watsonia. Phone: 0407 885 580. Web: https://www. facebook.com/share/ 1DRdcx3Wch/ F-L

BANK Money Boxes. GC. Negotiable. Mill Park. 9436 8935. H-O

FOOTWEAR. Navy woven leather. Diana Ferrari Sandal. Size

Worn once. Paid $130.

UNIT. One bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, laundry and living area. Private entrance. Price includes utilities (power/gas/water). VGC. $300 per week. Diamond Creek. 0404 433 572. H-O TO RENT

TENT. Wild Country. Hardly ever used. EC. $80. Mill Park. 0452 665 276 H-O

Business Guide