Southern Peninsula News 28 March 2023

INSIDE!

ELITE Pacific island weightlifters joined gold medal-winning weightlifter Eileen Cikamatana in Dromana on Friday 24 March, as they trained for the Pacific Elite International Weightlifting Tournament in Hawthorn on Saturday.

The Samoan athletes were brought to Dromana by peninsula resident and international weightlifting coach Paul Coffa MBE who said he wanted to give peninsula residents a chance to see the athletes in action before the weekend tournament.

After competing and the working as Australia’s national coach, Coffa moved to Nauru decades ago as weightlifting was taking off around the Pacific, before moving back to Australia during the pandemic.

Fijian-born Cikamatana, who also moved to the Mornington Peninsula during COVID to train at Coffa’s Dromana gym, was a star attraction of the tournament.

Coffa - who was last year inducted into the IWF Hall of Fame after more than 60 years of service to the sport -said the athletes were “superstars” who had a good chance of winning gold at the next Commonwealth Games.

He said Saturday’s tournament gave the audience three hours of “worldclass weightlifting”.

Power display by Pacific weightlifters

Power struggle over port use

Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au

THE state government’s apparent willingness to increase the use and size of the Port of Hastings has put it on a collision course with environment and community groups and Mornington Peninsula Shire Council. The main points of contention at the moment are the government’s approval of Esso using methane gas powered generators at Long Island Point, Japan’s intention to spend $2.35

billion exporting liquified hydrogen gas from Hastings and a terminal being built to assemble and ship wind generators to Bass Strait.

The recent big budget proposals for the port follow years of relative peace on the docks with the defeat of AGL’s liquified gas plan for Crib Point and the moving to Bay West in Port Phillip of a container port.

Shire councillors last week voted “as a matter of urgency” to seek clarification from the state government about protecting Western Port’s environment with the project involving

gasification of hydrogen made from brown coal and the disposal of carbon the process produces.

That decision was made in the same week that the Victorian National Parks Association launched an appeal to raise money to fight against Western Port becoming “an industrial wasteland”.

An email sent by the NPA’s executive director Matt Ruchel said Western Port was “neglected and under threat”. Ruchel said the association and the community had defeated the AGL gas import terminal “but this time, it’s not to stop a specific threat, but many”.

Permanent protection was needed to keep the bay “safe, healthy … [and] remove the temptation for industry, developers and governments to exploit this world-class wetland”.

In council on Tuesday 21 March Cr David Gill said it was important to ask the state government to consider the Mornington Peninsula “before they just make another decision before our community has an opportunity to have a say”.

“The state government has announced it was agreeing to a hydrogen gas export program and now we’re

going to be looking at what their intentions are,” he said.

After the Tuesday 21 March council meeting, the mayor Cr Steve Holland told The News that the state planning minister had approved a planning scheme amendment giving the go ahead for Esso to generate electricity at its Long Island Point fractionation plant (“Esso stands by to power up” The News 5/12/22).

“In recent weeks there has been renewed interest in the Port of Hastings and its future,” he said.

Continued Page 6

Picture: Yanni

Journalists: Keith Platt, Liz Bell, Brodie Cowburn Ph: 5974 9000. Email: team@mpnews.com.au

Photographers: Gary Sissons, Yanni

Inspection invited: Car enthusiasts will get a close-up look at a range of heritage vehicles at the Flinders event.

Ways to go on show at motoring festival

THE Lions Flinders Motoring Heritage event over Easter is in its seventh year and promises four hours of “revving”, music, food vans and a festival atmosphere.

The show will be held 10am to 2pm Sunday 9 April, and includes classic, veteran, vintage and neo-classic cars parked around the town.

Proceeds will support the refurbishment of an interactive garden at the Peninsula Health Mornington Centre in Separation Street. The garden – the first of its kind in a dementia ward within a public health system in Victoria - is designed as to reduce symptoms and contribute to the quality of life of people with dementia.

Construction of the garden has started and is expected to be completed soon.

Entry to the Lions Flinders Motoring Heritage event is open to all vehicles regardless of condition, including original and restored vehicles.

To book and enter go to flindersmotoringheritage.com.au

Drivers needed to help others get out and about

PENINSULA Transport Assist board member Clare Harwood has seen the significant difference transport assistance can make to the lives of people who have poor mobility or do not drive.

“I have always felt that people who go into aged care probably feel that all their outside interests now need to cease,” she said.

“However, we have one client in particular – Ralph Parker – who has proved this to be incorrect. Ralph resides at Mecwacare in Mornington, and he uses PTA’s service to get out and about. He uses a wheelie walker and does not drive.

“Personally, I have taken him to Pure Peninsula Honey where I thought he would just want me to wait in the car. But no, he asked if I was ‘coming in’.

“So I did, and it seems he knows everyone there as he has a passion for honey in and on beverages and food and goes there regularly. When we came out to the car, we sat there for some time while he showed me photos of his late wife and also of the art work he does. He really enjoyed having a chat.”

Harwood said PTA drivers take Parker to Bunnings, Garden World, Coolart Nursery, as well as doctor’s appointments.

“Really, wherever Ralph wants to go, we will take him,” she said.

Harwood said the service needed more drivers, along with volunteering rates Australia-wide falling over

Long road to recovery for injured koala

Liz Bell liz@mpnews.com.au

the past year. PTA’s volunteers had dropped from 75 to 65.

“These drivers are spread all over the Mornington Peninsula and in the City of Frankston and service clients from these areas,” Harwood said.

“We are coming up to the cooler months, and many drivers head north for the winter.

“Two drivers have recently had health problems, some have left for personal reasons and some have had other issues that take up their time.

“The fewer drivers we have, the fewer people we can assist. It would be great if we could encourage more people to volunteer with us.

“Drivers meet some interesting people, such as lovely lady in Mount Martha who used to be the food writer for the Herald Sun. She no longer drives and said to me ‘I hope your service continues’ when I told her about some funding cuts we have had to deal with.”

PTA is not free, but clients are only asked to contribute on a kilometre basis.

Anyone needing help getting into a hospital or appointment (drivers can offer assistance and stay if needed), just shopping or coffee and a chat is welcome to use the service.

For information phone 9708-8241 or email info@peninsulatransportassist.org

Office hours are 9.30am to 2.30pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

Liz Bell

A SERIOUSLY injured koala found close to death in Tyabb last month is on the road to recovery thanks to the efforts of wildlife rescuers, rehabilitators and local police.

The injured marsupial was seen clinging to a tree overhanging busy Tyabb-Tooradin Road on 10 February, one ear missing and open wounds all over its body.

Canons Creek wildlife rescuer

Nigel Williamson was called and used his well-honed tree climbing skills to retrieve the ill animal, helped by police officers who were able to redirect traffic while he undertook the risky rescue.

Once safely down the koala’s injuries became obvious, including a head wound full of maggots and multiple cuts and abrasions that Tyabb Koala Hospital’s Jenny Bryant says were most likely caused by being hit on the road.

Bryant was able to sedate the animal to keep it calm while the wound was cleaned, and quickly administered fluids and antibiotics that undoubtedly saved its life.

She said the koala’s sad story highlighted the need for drivers to slow down and be alert for wildlife on the peninsula.

“In recent months there have been around 20 koalas killed here and in and around Purdies Road. That’s really appalling and could be prevented if drivers slowed down and were aware that wildlife often have to cross the road,” Bryant said.

Survivor: The koala is recovering well but still bears the scars of the road trauma that almost killed it and claimed one of its ears. Picture: Supplied

“The koalas that I’ve been seeing since the start of the year have just been left to die on the road, so it’s really important if you do hit an animal to check whether it’s alive or dead and get it to a vet or wildlife carer.”

Bryant said that despite its horrific injuries, the koala responded to treatment and is eating well, is very active and showing good signs of recovery.

“It will be a long road for this one, maybe 12 months in all, but I’m confident he’ll come through and will be able to be released when ready,”

We understand the hard work and effort of being a hidden unpaid disability carer and that at times, you need a break.

Shorter House in Traralgon, will give you some much needed respite, at no cost, with the support and care you deserve, including Dinner Vouchers.

The Support for Carers Program is available to residents living in: Baw Baw Shire, Bass Coast Shire, Latrobe City, Mornington Peninsula, City of Frankston and South Gippsland Shire.

she said.

Bryant said there were signs warning of wildlife on the roads just metres from where the injured koala was found.

“There are road signs, but people don’t pay attention, we probably need some bigger signs right at the entrance to the peninsula so people are aware it is such a unique area and drivers need to be on alert.”

Bryant has spent the past 45 years caring for native animals as a registered volunteer wildlife carer.

Newsgathering for a living

YOUNG Victorians are being encouraged to apply to the Y’s 2023 Victorian Youth Press Gallery to gain reporting skills and experience while sharing the stories of Victorian Youth Parliament.

The Y’s Youth Parliament and Youth Press Gallery programs provide an opportunity for aspiring journalists to participate in a real press gallery during three Youth Parliament sittings in June.

Formed by young people aged 16 to 25 with an interest in media and journalism, the Youth Press Gallery will develop key industry skills and publish content for media outlets.

In preparation for the sitting of Youth Parliament in June, members of the press gallery will be able to build their journalistic skills through workshops and a training camp. Participants will learn how to engage in the newsgathering, production and editorial processes while meeting and networking with professionals, including state and national political reporters.

Skills they will have the opportunity to develop include news reporting, video and photojournalism, podcasting and radio, live tweeting and portfolio building.

Applications for the 2023 Victorian Youth Press Gallery program close Sunday 2 April. For details visit the YMCA Youth Press Gallery website or email Ruby Sait at pressgallery@ymca.org.au

Services are growing at Sages farm

Liz Bell liz@mpnews.com.au

WALLARA – which supports more than 500 people with an intellectual disability across 20 sites – has relaunched its Sages Cottage Farm and Cafe at Baxter with extra experiences that include a nature playground, extended hours and a liquor licence, a “biofilta” field, and an “ops shed”.

Wallara CEO Phil Hayes-Brown said the farm and cafe was one of Wallara’s most important social enterprises and was run by 100 adult clients (mostly 18-27 years old) and around 20 support and job coaches. The farm employs 10 of its young clients in hospitality, farm management and land management services.

The property already has a cafe, animals, extensive gardens, wetlands and bushwalk, with the new additions expected to improve client and visitor experiences.

The nature playground will use several large trees that have fallen down on the property in big storms over the last few months and is the first of several projects the landscape team that donated its services will work on.

The farm will extend its hours to open 8am to 4pm daily and with a liquor licence, opening up more employment roles and providing extended training in hospitality.

The new “biofilta” field grows food for the cafe and others operated by Wallara in the south east, and will eventually include a rotunda for the public to be able to sit in and admire

the growing produce. Visitors will be able to wander through and be educated on the beds and their growing capacity.

The new “ops shed”, a new building for clients that provides additional bathrooms plus indoor training spaces

for programs, replaces portable marquees and toilets. The shed has a wood-working section and two large spaces for clients to be indoors in wet weather or extreme heat, and was made possible by a philanthropic family.

“Everything that Wallara does to enhance the farm is from philanthropy, small grants and some corporate donors, and the farm is often used by corporates for immersion programs to understand disability more,” HayesBrown said.

Wallara CEO Phil Hayes-Brown at Wednesday’s launch with some new wicking beds for growing produce.

Picture: Supplied

Playing to their age at Portsea

IN recent times Jack Meaden, Theo Fatouros and Bob Riley have become a playing group in Portsea Golf Club’s Saturday competition, defying their ages with their energy and enthusiasm.

Meaden is 95 and lives in Melbourne but has a house in Sorrento and has been a PGC member for 42 years. He was previously a keen sailor and played social golf with his wife Lois but, due to her recent poor health, has joined his mates.

A few weeks ago the nonagenarian shot 89 off the stick, breaking his age by six shots. He plays off 26, meaning that he only has to play to his handicap to play to his age.

Meaden’s friends, however, say he has weakened in that he uses a cart, while they admit they’ll most likely be in wheelchairs at his age, or before.

Always self-effacing, Meaden said that “instead of the putts hanging on the edge and looking back and laughing at me, this time it was one of those lucky rounds when all the putts went in”.

His playing buddy Theo Fatouros, 90, has been a member for 32 years. While it is safe to say that he will never break his age, he has an encyclopaedic knowledge of his favourite subject. His mates say that if you don’t know that the subject is Richmond Football Club, you have never spoken to him.

The “baby” of the group, at 85, is Bob Riley, who has been a member for 36 years. His mother and father were also members as was his brother

Ken. The Rileys are one of Sorrento oldest families and brother John is also a member.

Riley still walks the course and plays off 15, so when he plays to his

handicap he plays to his age. He has broken his age at least six times in the past year and keeps fit by playing croquet and riding his bike at least 100 kilometres a week.

Collaboration ‘key’ to action plan

BLAIRGOWRIE Community 3942

–previously the Blairgowrie Community Action Group – has signalled a new period of improved planning for the coastal town after successfully lobbying Mornington Peninsula Shire Council for a “local area action plan”.

Chair of the group, Richard Doery, said Blairgowrie’s action plan was still being developed, but would be the first “off the map” on the peninsula.

Doery said the new action plan would feature collaboration between the council and the community and was a positive step to allow residents to participate and help set priorities for the future of Blairgowrie.

“Primarily, the action plan will be developed through community input, so the council can get things executed with the community behind it.”

“The plan is in the early stage of development but we would like to reach out to the residents so they can participate in developing it and improve the planning of projects and the outcomes.

Doery said the forum worked on the basis of “achieving a consensus” on what was in the best interest of Blairgowrie, while advocating and liaising with the council, state and federal governments, and other groups such as Peninsula Speaks and Nepean Ratepayers Association.

The oldest playing member at Portsea is Bill Horn, 96. Horn now plays twice a week with the “nine holers“ and until recently ran the group.

Liz Bell

Blairgowrie Community 3942 meets on the second Tuesday of each month at Scott’s Shed, near the Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron, between 4.30pm and 6pm.

For details email community3942@gmail.com or phone Richard Doery on 0438 381 326.

On course: Golfing partners Bob Riley, Theo Fatouros and Jack Meaden at Portsea Golf Course. Picture: Supplied

Different opinions over port’s future

Continued from Page 1

“[The] shire would welcome the opportunity to discuss with the state government their plans for Western Port. It is crucial that our community is consulted on the future use of this strategically important and environmentally sensitive region,” Holland said.

Gill said at the council meeting that the trial to export hydrogen made from brown coal in the Latrobe Valley from Hastings had failed (“Equipment blamed for fire on hydrogen ship” The News 20/2/23).

“How many decisions have been made and what information? We need to know about those decisions immediately from the state government,” he said.

Gill said the government needed to say “why we need to dig up coal to export as clean energy and … [not] worry about the carbon residue here. These are the sort of things that make it urgent”.

“I just want to know what [the government’s] intentions are. If you announce something, you must already have that information or are they still on the hop, trying to work out how to do this and whether they actually have the science to do it?

“If you make a commitment to another government that is a commitment.

Police lead the way to cycling safely

POLICE from Hastings and Somerville police stations assisted the students at Hastings Primary School ride to school safely on Friday 24 March.

All were treated to breakfast pancakes, and police gave a talk about the importance of wearing a helmet and being aware of cars reversing out of driveways. Finally, the students from Bike Ed gave a demonstration of what they have learnt so far this term.

Man charged

BAYSIDE Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team detectives have charged

a 34-year-old Baxter man with alleged sex offences.

It is alleged the offences against three victims took place between January and March this year in Waterways and online.

The man was arrested on Thursday 16 March.

Police searched his vehicle and two properties and seized various electronic devices.

He has been charged with 10 offences, including sexual penetration of a child under 16, sexual assault of a child under 16 and grooming.

He has been remanded and will next appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 7 July.

“Or are they sitting on something and hiding something?

“I tend to follow the money, and when I saw there was an announcement of $2.3 billion for this to happen, it’s not really too smart to think it’s going to happen no matter what.”

Cr Sarah Race said the community had “very real concerns … it’s imperative we start the ball rolling right away and not let this get away from us”.

Cr Simon Brooks said there were scientific doubts about carbon capture and storage and asking for details “sends a message to the community and, hopefully, back to the government that we’re watching”.

He said there were “strong indications” that “green hydrogen produced through electrolysis is actually at a stage where it is cost comparable to gasification”.

Cr Despi O’Connor: “The only way we can decrease emissions is to stop opening new coal and gas projects in any form in this country, not just on the peninsula.

“There is huge evidence and a costly bill in the billions that have already shown that carbon capture and sequestration is a failed bid.

“This project will create an energy source, brown hydrogen, at the cost of large emissions that are created right here.

“Brown hydrogen is not clean energy. To stop emissions and to stop the sea level rising 1.2 metres, let alone our extreme weather events, is to stop removing coal and gas from the earth. “Carbon is already captured in that form. Wouldn’t the money be better spent looking at green energy through renewables and transition away from fossil fuel?”

The Save Westernport community group said the government’s use of a planning scheme amendment to approve Esso’s plan “could be seen as a means of evading responsibility to the community and to their concerns, and of avoiding the need for appropriate conditions”.

“The possibility that the threat of ‘running out of gas’ was used [by the minister] to justify the speedy approval of another new fossil fuel project in Western Port, should anger Victorians, coming just days after the latest IPCC report on COP 27 re-emphasised the need to reject new gas and coal projects as a matter of extreme emergency,” the group stated in a news release.

“We believe it would be wrong if Esso’s threats to ‘curtail gas supplies to Victoria’, or to ‘reduce natural gas production for the south east Australian gas market’ held sway with the planning minister.

“The minister’s decision to approve the project as a result of Esso’s claims suggests how common, and effective, these seemingly baseless threats from the fossil fuels industry have become.”

“The minister’s decision to approve the project as a result of Esso’s claims suggests how common, and effective, these seemingly baseless threats from the fossil fuels industry have become,” the group’s secretary Julia Stockgit said.

Determination elevated island girl’s life

Liz Bell liz@mpnews.com.au

SILVA Mcleod describes herself as an “island girl”, a nickname that is suggestive of the now 61-year-old’s idyllic and simple teenage years growing up in a small community in Tonga.

Mcleod’s book, Island girl to airline pilot, tells a very different story of ambition, determination and achievement against the odds as the first Tongan woman to become an airline pilot.

The book, to be released in April and launched on the Mornington Peninsula on 5 May, is part love story, inspirational message, tragedy and feel-good memoir as Mcleod tells of her first meeting more than 40 years ago with Australian electrician Ken Mcleod (who was working in Tonga for an Australian aid organisation), their deep love and their marriage in 1980.

It also tells of Mcleod’s other love, flying, and her burning desire to become an airline pilot that she eventually fulfilled through self-belief and the support of family.

Not long after the 19-year-old met her 29-year-old Aussie sweetheart, the pair married in a traditional Tongan ceremony and moved to Australia, where they had two children and lived in Rye, Ken’s former home.

Mcleod was thrust into a new lifestyle far away from the restrictive but idyllic Pacific island life and, as a woman of colour in the 1980s, it wasn’t easy. Mcleod says she encountered frustration and racism, along

with the immense guilt of leaving her Tongan family.

But in between working in hospitality, looking after the home and family and making community connections, Mcleod never dropped her dream of flying a plane, even when disaster

struck.

“About 10 years after moving here I was given a voucher for a flight and really loved it, and my husband, who was in hospital after being diagnosed with multiple myeloma, turned around in his bed and said that if I wanted to

still pursue flying, I should do it and we would make it happen,” she said.

“There was no doubt in my mind and he knew it was important to me. I would never have been able to do that in my village in Tonga, where women look after the home mostly and can’t

pursue worldly ambitions … I would have been ridiculed.”

After nearly two years of study and lessons, Mcleod achieved the necessary licences to fly for a commercial airline and was employed in her “dream” job with Tonga Airlines, which required a move back to the island nation.

Living away from her husband and girls was difficult, as was the twicemonthly commute between countries to maintain a “normal” family life.

“That was the hardest part, I missed my husband and kids, but I knew it had to be done, there really wasn’t any other way,” she said.

Four years later Mcleod was able to move back to her family in Rye when she secured a job flying a Boeing 777 with Virgin, but she faced another challenge decades later when she was made redundant and around the same time, in 2020, her husband died from his cancer.

Grieving and trying to hold her life together, Mcleod faced a frighteningly uncertain future, but again, her tenacity and optimism shone through, and at close to 60 she pursued another passion – property and houses – to become a licensed real estate agent.

Mcleod’s book is written with humour, honesty and clarity, and is an enjoyable read that shines the light on love and loss, personal endurance, and goal setting.

It is being launched at The Dunes in Rye, where Mcleod once worked.

“I really wanted to have the launch locally, to share it with my community,” she said.

PRIMED MDF MOULDINGS

S/Bevel 42x15 ...................................... $1.40mt

S/Bevel 67x15 ...................................... $1.80mt S/Bevel 67x18 ...................................... $1.85mt L/ Tongue 67x18 ................................... $1.85mt L/

92x18 ................................... $2.65mt

L/ Tongue 140x18 ................................. $3.95mt

B/nose 67x18 ....................................... $1.85mt

B/nose 92x18 ....................................... $2.65mt

CYPRESS WINDSOR PICKETS

70x19 900mm ....................................... $3.60ea

70x19 1200mm ..................................... $4.85ea

70x19 1500mm ..................................... $5.95ea

70x19 1800mm ..................................... $7.20ea

PRIMED LOSP T/PINE

18x18 Quad/Fillet/DAR .......................... $2.25mt

42x18 DAR ............................................ $3.65mt

66x18 DAR ............................................ $4.75mt

90x18 DAR ............................................ $6.50mt

138x18 DAR .......................................... $9.50mt

185x18 DAR ........................................ $13.25mt

30x30 Int Stop ....................................... $4.20mt

57x30 Ext Stop ...................................... $6.95mt

42x42 DAR ............................................ $6.50mt

90x42 DAR F7 ..................................... $13.75mt

138x42

Divided loyalties: Silva Mcleod has faced many challenges in her life in Australia and recounts them in her inspirational memoir.

Picture: Yanni

‘Phase two’ for tech park

PLANS for a new Bungower Road tech park have been adapted after community feedback and have entered phase two.

The proposal, first put to Mornington Peninsula Shire Council in 2020, is predicted to provide up to 1100 jobs and create a business park with green space and ancillary facilities.

The founders of the navigation technology company Sealite are the major players behind plans for the $540 million technology park at Somerville

Lead proponentChris Proctor says it is “future-proofing” local employment through innovation and community growth.

He said the park would be safeguarded from potential heavy industrial use and was expected to address the “critical shortage” of land for industry on the Mornington Peninsula as well as harness the 30-year focus identified in Melbourne’s industrial and commercial land use plan.

“The heritage building located on site will be carefully revitalised, ensuring the character and original

beauty of the building is retained and the community can enjoy it,” he said.

The site forms part of around 3500 hectares zoned as Special Use Port Related, but deemed surplus to the Port of Hastings needs in 2018. It was declared regionally significant industrial land by the state government in 2019.

Over the next month, Mornington Peninsula Shire will hold information sessions and seek community feedback.

To get the go-ahead the site will need to be rezoned, as most industrial and warehouse-based uses are banned under ‘special use’if they are not linked to a port-related or marine service industry.

The exhibition ofAmendment C243morn will be finalised on Friday 12 May. For further information on the proposal go to mornpen.tech.

Procter said his plans would incorporate the pre-existing Brunnings homestead heritage site into the open space area to ensure the protection of the homestead and any significant trees.

Family fun day helps out CFA

AS well as providing an entertaining day out for families and friends, this year’s Somerville Family Day raised $10,000 for Somerville CFA.

The family day has been running since 2015 at the Fruitgrowers Reserve, with stalls, food, musical entertainment and carnival rides.

Somerville Family Day Committee president Cally McNulty estimated this year’s “crowd” at 15,000.

“This is our eighth year of opera-

Concern over road ‘subsidence’

POTHOLES are upsetting drivers across the Mornington Peninsula, but road subsidence is an issue for those using one Mount Martha street.

in length to eight metres this year, and is now across the road and affecting north and south-bound traffic.

undermining of the road base.”

tion,” McNulty said.

“Unfortunately we couldn’t run the day during the 2021 COVID lockdowns, or during construction of the new skatepark in 2022, but this year we have bounced back bigger and better than ever.”

CFA Captain Josh Caron said members of the fire brigade had been “blown away by the size of the donation” and it would go towards the cost of a forward command vehicle.

Residents are calling for urgent repairs to Lempriere Avenue due to a deep depression spreading across the road and making it dangerous and unstable.

Ian Easterby, who drives along the road almost every day, says he reported his concerns to the Department of Transport on 10 and 14 March that the indentation initially resulted from flooding in November, but no action was taken.

The subsidence has now caused the indentation to grow from two metres

Easterby said he complained to the media on Wednesday to give the issue some traction, resulting in engineers inspecting the next day and installing “rough surface” signs.

But, he said the department had still not returned his calls or informed residents of work plans, and he felt the placement of signs indicated it might just be a “quick fix”.

“Lines highlight the area to be ‘reinstated’ but by what means, permanent or temporary quick fix,” he said.

“With Easter traffic and potential heavy rains, this may cause further

The department told The News it would repair the road “in coming weeks”.

“Crews will assess the site in coming days with the works expected to be complete in late April, weather permitting,” a spokesperson said.

The community can report any hazards on our road network by calling the hotline on 13 11 70 or via the VicRoads website.

To stay up-to date with what’s happening in an area via the VicRoads maintenance portal at vicroads.vic. gov.au/traffic-and-road-use/road-network-and-performance/road-maintenance-works. Liz

Bell

Uneven road: Ian Easterby is doubtful anything will be done quickly to improve the “dangerous” road surface of Lempriere Avenue, Mount Martha. Picture: Yanni

More hands needed to clear litter

VOLUNTEERS who clean up rubbish left by others at Mornington Peninsula beaches are calling for help to do their job even better.

As part of BeachPatrol Australiathe umbrella organisation concerned about the plastic that is ending up on beaches – volunteers at Rye, Safety Beach, Dromana, Mornington, Rosebud, McCrae, Blairgowrie, Mount Eliza and Mount Martha are removing litter, one plastic wrapper and disposable coffee cup at a time.

In the collective effort to keep streets clean and stop plastic litter entering the creeks, canals, beach or ocean, BeachPatrol has teamed with inland groups of Love Our Street to spread the word that community action can make a difference and it is as simple as giving an hour a month and joining like-minded people to clean up plastic litter.

These volunteers span 11 local government areas, representing 42 suburbs in Victoria and on average log 120 clean ups a month.

Love Our Streets’ Ashley Porter, said more volunteers and new group leaders were needed to spread the work being done year-round into more areas.

“We are on a clear mission to not only pick up litter and record it, but also to re-educate the community on the use and abuse of plastic,” Porter said.

According to BeachPatrol Australia president Dr Ross Headifen the regular clean-ups are a reminder of the large amount of plastic litter discarded onto our beaches and streets, with

Dump green waste for free

MORNINGTON Peninsula residents can dispose of green waste at no cost during the shire’s No Charge Green Waste event from 28 to 30 April.

The no charge weekend is for shire residents or ratepayers only, with green waste to be delivered only from residential vehicles and trailers.

The popularity of previous free waste days has led to delays at transfers stations, especially in the morning and at the end of the day.

Proof of residency (driver’s license, rates notice) needs to be shown at the transfer station.

Green waste includes all types of garden waste and untreated timber.

The Mornington transfer station can only accept up to three cubic metres of green waste each trip. No commercial vehicles or commercial green waste will be accepted.

Clean-up time: BeachPatrol volunteers help keep Mornington Peninsula beaches clean and its seas and waterways healthy. Picture: Supplied

the potential to harm wildlife.

“We currently have a great team of volunteers who are determined to continue this important work,” he said.

“However, we need more volunteers to grow our movement. We are coming together to not only tidy our suburbs but to reinforce our position in highlighting the need to reduce the number of single-use plastic items being used and the associated amount of litter being discarded.”

Headifen said the campaign was also an effort to raise awareness by

re-educating the community that littering just shows a lack of care for the environment.

“We all should know how to be sensible when it comes to proper rubbish disposal methods. So why are we still failing,” he said.

“We should be filled with pride for our suburbs, beaches and streets, but it is sometimes a challenge if our open areas are tainted with litter. Let’s change this now.”

According to Headifen, after more than nine years of recording data for

BeachPatrol and Love Our Street groups, some staggering statistics have been made public.

“We have collected nearly 900,000 pieces of plastic, with tens of thousands of drink bottles, food wrappers and coffee cups.”

“BeachPatrol and Love Our Street is about local communities taking action all year round to record and raise the awareness of the issues of plastic litter.”

To join a BP or LOS group visit beachpatrol.com.au

Residents living in the urban area of the shire can choose to receive a 240-litre fortnightly green and food waste bin collection.

For more information about the free green waste weekend or to book a green waste bin collection service visit mornpen.vic.gov.au/ greenwaste

Resource recovery centres are at Rye in Truemans Road; Tyabb, McKirdys Road; and Mornington, Watt Road.

Opening hours for the green waste are 8am-4pm Friday and 8am-5pm Saturday and Sunday.

”

‘Respect what we have, take your rubbish home’

The residents of Blairgowrie recognise that we occupy a very special place sitting between Port Phillip and Mornington Peninsula National Park. Our neighbourhood character is greatly enhanced by considerable roadside native vegetation and a number of bushland reserves and beautiful beaches. This character is under attack by excessive clearing for residential development, graffiti on public infrastructure and rubbish dumped or left on our beaches.

I wish to acknowledge the efforts of Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, the Whitecliffs foreshore management and Parks Victoria to address these problems.

We would like to appeal to all our residents and visitors to respect what we have, take your rubbish home or to the recycling centre in Rye, join one of our volunteer groups and help us all enjoy why we live and come to Blairgowrie.

Richard Doery, chair Blairgowrie Community Action Group

Show a winner

Congratulations to all concerned for the success of the 2023 Red Hill Show. Worrying numbers of children with no apparent sun protection, and a clueless woman letting her dog run free adjacent to the farm animals aside, it was a great day with much to enjoy. Local produce, dog trials (discipline, not criminal), woodcutters, and the very droll and visual presentation of shearing by local hero Peter, what’s not to love.

David Martin, Mount Martha

Group winds down

This is to advise that Rye Beach Community Action is being wound up. This group was formed more than 20 years ago by Rye residents and business owners, to help promote and improve the Rye township.

The group was involved in many projects, such as the sandcastle competition that ran for several years; the Octopuses Garden pier walk; Rye business awards and dinner, publishing a Rye business directory; Clean-Up Australia days; an inter-faith festival; re-vegetating the foreshore with thousands of indigenous plants; and participating in many council community consultations. However, by far the largest enterprise it was involved in was the creation 10 years ago of a new and larger community-built children’s playground on the foreshore near the pier.

More than $300,000 was donated by the community, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council and businesses from Rye and across the peninsula. After three years of negotiating with the council and authorities, it was built in five days purely by volunteers.

To allow the action group to do things such as this, a public liability insurance policy was essential, and this was mainly paid by the business members’ annual membership fee of a $100.

When the council encouraged businesses to form a separate Rye chamber of commerce, the

days of the action group were thus numbered. The remaining action group funds will be disbursed as follows: $12,000 to artist Simon Normand for a sea-themed mosaic at the entrance to the playground, and $8900 to Rye Primary School to help upgrade its computer lab. Thank you everyone who supported the action group and its projects over the years.”

David Trunfull, treasurer Rye Beach Community Action

Late take-off

Tyabb “airport” did not come first (“Airport came first” Letters 15/3/23). For those recent arrivals unacquainted with the history of Tyabb here is a short summary:

1858: Tyabb first surveyed for 100 acre “selections”.

1891: Tyabb Primary School (Top Tyabb) opened.

1899: Tyabb Hall, built by residents, opened.

1907: Tyabb Railway Primary School opened.

1920: Tyabb Cenotaph unveiled.

1958: New Tyabb Hall replaces original which become Tyabb Youth Hall.

1963: More than 100 years after the establishment of Tyabb, the first flight was made from a paddock which eventually became Tyabb airfield.

David Chalke, Tyabb

Wrighting wrongs

Yep, two of Tyabb’s six schools were built after the Wright Bros and my mum flew and airfield was established, my apologies (“Schools came first”, “New-found respect” Letters 21/3/23). Motives? Mine was to advocate a safe future for the airport with its many community benefits (“Airport came first” Letters 14/3/23). I wonder about someone who was an aircraft owner and former [Peninsula Aero Club] board member and someone’s “post truth world” that would be inhabited by those continuing to push [Mornington Peninsula Shire] council into closing the airfield for lucrative development opportunities, when the only decision lies with Air Services Australia, a federal body.

Fran Henke, Hastings

Two-pot talk

Old age arrives, bringing lesser activities, thankfully not the two pots daily at my RSL. The consensus is loud and clear, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has abandoned us (cleaning, handyman, graffiti) in favour of high-rise buildings, money, and increased power.

Some of us can recall the times when our local councillor would visit, listen, and take action. They were the days, for some. Others have given up, adopting an “it is what it is” point of view, reverting to who will win the football match, or the mystery of this new-fangled iPhone, or the latest on eye cataracts, hip replacements. Life.

Voice misconstrued

What a gross case of scaremongering and exaggeration! (“‘No Voice’ explained” Letters 21/3/23).

The writer warns of an apparently terrifying prospect: a “Trojan Horse for democracy in Australia”. A Trojan Horse is defined as something which undermines or overthrows the enemy, so what is this fearful change which will undermine and overthrow us, will place “undue influence on government decisions” and will “end in ownership” (presumably the writer believes of the entire country)? Apparently, the culprit is an enshrined Indigenous Voice to Parliament. This, according to the writer, is what will threaten to destroy our democracy and our “system of government and laws”. I thought the Indigenous Voice was simply an advisory body to parliament giving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people a say on matters that affect them. Doesn’t sound like a Trojan Horse.

The letter also misconstrues the role of First Nations MPs as being representatives of their community when they are representatives of their electorate and their political party. The author completely fails to mention that the Uluru Statement from the Heart, the request in 2017 to all Australians to “walk with” First Nations people, was supported by the overwhelming majority of First Nations representatives, in a call for voice, truth and treaty.

Finally, we read that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are all supposed to hold the same view on matters such as the Voice. Is individual expression a democratic right for nonIndigenous people only?

This kind of exaggerated and misleading messaging confuses genuine people wanting to decide how to vote responsibly in a referendum that is critically important for the nation. Spare a thought too, for the effect the letter would have on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander people living in the area.

Maureen Donelly, Mornington

Voice ‘anti-apartheid’

Let us look at the word apartheid: a policy of segregation and political, social, and economic discrimination against the non-white majority (“‘Apartheid’ ahead” Letters 14/3/23).

The only country I know that is apartheid today I cannot mention as I would immediately be labeled anti-Semitic.

I would suggest that the Voice is actually antiapartheid being as the antonyms for apartheid are: anti-racism, anti-discrimination, assimilationism, anti-segregation. There are many others that clearly lay waste to the Voice being apartheid.

The Liberal government did not have a problem with the distinction when they were issuing cashless welfare cards.

The USA has solved the problem by simply saying that anyone who has 1/16 American Indian heritage can claim American Indian legal status.

Australia, of course, has a clear understanding of apartheid - consider: in 1901 the Immigration Restriction Act (white Australia policy was enacted. However the Indigenous locals, who were considered a “dying race”, were also targeted. Which caused the native population to be dispossessed and faded into society’s periphery, both literally and figuratively. It also was the precursor of “assimilation” and the stolen generation.

In 1973, after 72 years, it was struck down by the newly elected Labor government.

Joe Lenzo, Safety Beach

‘One-eyed’ Sybils

These people oppose anything that will benefit Australia or the community of Hastings, work and progression wise, into alternative forms of energy production or delivery (“Sybils tread the (pier) boards” The News 14/3/23). They have their one-eyed view of what it should be, and any [energy] forms other than wind and solar are opposed.

Those Sybils pictured are people, age wise, who have lived, used and I would still bet, use fossil fuel vehicles and appliances.

I’m for the expansion of Western Port Long Island industrial [area] as long as it’s done in a proper way environmental wise.

Alex Angelico, Parkdale

On the level

A female activist from the UK (Kellie-Jay Keen) was invited to speak on women’s rights, particularly the rights of females in sport. However, in the media this gathering of speakers has been branded as anti-trans. That is far more “woke” and trendy than being pro-women. But being pro-women doesn’t mean being anti-trans. They are not mutually exclusive.

It is simply a case of the long-standing natural rights of one group conflicting with the perceived rights of a different group, albeit a minority group.

The thrust of Ms Keen’s argument is that female athletes should not have to race against persons who grew up as males, and thus have male attributes of speed and strength.

Mothers have been voicing their concerns that if they speak up their daughters will be dropped from teams. Only swimming has come out with a clear statement on transgender participants. Furthermore, women have the right to feel safe in changing rooms and should not have to share with trans-gender persons who still have their male “bits”.

Transgender people should compete against other trans-gender athletes, so they have a level playing field, much as people with disabilities compete in separate events at the Olympics.

Of course [Victorian premier] Dan Andrews has to have his two-bobs worth, claiming it’s all about inclusivity while ignoring the fact that an ex-male who beats a female is depriving that girl or woman of what would otherwise be her hard won spot on the team. His only interest in the matter is to try to gain political points.

NATIONAL Playgroup Week (20 to 26 March) saw families from the Mornington Peninsula and beyond make a playgroup connection.

In Hastings for the celebration last Wednesday, Playgroup Victoria’s playgroup development and support manager Leanne Dhami said this year’s national week this year brought “a different feel”.

“This year we are reminded of the value and the benefits of being together - physically and emotionally, supporting one another in our local community,” she said.

“Playgroup is an opportunity for families to share the parenting journey together; the highs and the challenges and all the rewards of seeing children

One day at a time. A shrug of the various shoulders, men and women. Cliff

Ellen, Rye

Please do not mention this apartheid theory to [federal opposition leader] Peter Dutton, it will just add to the continued subterfuge (deceit used in order to achieve one’s goal) of the Voice by the Liberal Party. He has already started with his latest subterfuge “What/who is an Aboriginal?”

Connecting communities with play

form relationships and grow.

“Being present is a reminder to be active participants in each other’s life. Every member of a community belongs and has a valuable role to play, no-one is a bystander when we are together.”

Dhami said the importance of play was well understood, but that but playing together embraced that “we are a community”.

“Our children and families share knowledge, share experiences and learn and grow from these together.

The heart-warming sound of children and adult laughter echoing from a playgroup room reinforces the sense of strong community,” she said.

“After a turbulent three years of change, the idea of being present,

sharing moments together in-person, is something we draw close at playgroup. This is innate to us all - to feel connected and be connected.”

Playgroup CEO Danny Schwarz said that by being together and engaged with children and other families, playgroup “gives us space to be in the moment”.

“Through play and conversation, we learn about each other, children develop and relationships strengthen. From small rural groups in the bush, to intergenerational groups in city areas, to those who meet in our beautiful parks, schools, beaches, coffee shops and school halls across the state - National Playgroup Week is a celebration of all the good playgroups bring.”

I fear it is not possible to have a rational debate about matters such as this in the current climate.

Jack Wheeler, Mornington

NICOLE Mowthorpe, left, and her baby Willa McKillop, six months, at the Hastings foreshore park with Jaymi White and five-month-old Henry Lambert. Picture: Supplied

Since 1946

SOLD

RYE 6 Murray Street

POSITION PERFECT

Ideally located a leisurely 100m stroll to the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrone Foreshore and a flat, 1 km walk to Blairgowrie Village is this accommodating residence with a most striking design. Comprising: 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, spacious open plan living bathed in natural light, takes in a superb treetop aspect and Bay view. Adjoining the living room is a well-equipped alfresco entertaining area featuring built-in BBQ and canopy, wet bar and pizza oven. The perfect place to get the family and friends together after returning from the beach. prenticerealestate.com.au

For Sale: $2,400,000-$2,600,000

Contact: Michael Prentice 0417 369 235

PRICE REDUCED

RYE 5 Tanya Street

A SUPERB HOLDING!

This generously sized, North facing vacant residential allotment measuring 919 m2 is the ideal site for your new build retreat or permanent residence. Offering a rustic, lightly treed setting assuring privacy and a natural coastal feel, vacant blocks like these that are accommodating to build on are fast becoming a rare commodity on this tightly held Southern Peninsula (and we are not making any more land down here!) So don’t miss this superb lifestyle and investment opportunity. Note property also abuts house for sale at No.3 Tanya Street, Rye. prenticerealestate.com.au

For Sale: $630,000 - $670,000

Contact: Michael Prentice 0417 369 235

SORRENTO 63 Collins Parade

‘ST THOMAS’

This striking architecturally designed home is the perfect place to seek sanctuary and enjoy the space and privacy with family and friends. Featuring a formal entry through to the main living & dining area with polished floor boards, gas log fire, ducted heating, cooling split and extensive glazing. The main living flows to the outdoor alfresco and bbq area that overlooks the full size mod grass tennis court. Downstairs are 3 bedrooms with built in robes, a full bathroom and powder room whilst upstairs has a 2nd living area and the spacious master bedroom.

prenticerealestate.com.au

For Sale: Contact Agent

Contact: Mark Prentice 0408 117 772

PRICE REDUCED

RYE 8 Derwin Street

THE TRIFECTA!

Bay views, prime location, and generous land size. It’s all here for the taking! This truly magnificent holding measuring 1,330m2 (approx) superbly located a leisurely 800m stroll to the heart of Rye’s vibrant retail strip and Bay beach directly opposite offers unlimited potential to further capitalise on this blue chip location. The house itself reminiscent of the sensational 70’s that it was constructed in offers 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, generous living spaces and rumpus/ 2nd living downstairs. A great platform to renovate and or extend as required and create something special to be enjoyed as a permanent residence or coastal retreat for years to come prenticerealestate.com.au

For Sale: $1,350,000 - $1,450,000

Contact: Michael Prentice 0417 369 235

ONCE IN A GENERATION CHANCE TO BUY

OFFERED for sale for only the second time in almost seventy years, this astoundingly tightly held property represents a glorious era in traditional architectural elegance. With Mills Beach at the end of the street, this premier location also provides a sweeping bay view from the upstairs balcony. Set within peaceful gardens on a spacious allotment of 1068 square metres, the property proposes a great life balance of work, rest and play within the multiple entertaining domains that are fully concealed beyond the striking street presence. Progressive updates to the interior provide extremely comfortable living, yet further opportunities to forge your contemporary aesthetic

remain as different family needs evolve. Adorned with original timber floors, high ceilings and ornate details, the distinct living and dining spaces spill effortlessly to the open-plan kitchen where premium appliances and a stone island bench bolster every entertaining demand. The focus on functionality moves to the ground floor accommodation zone which comprises a renovated family bathroom shared between two bedrooms with built-in robes. Each bedroom has an attractive leafy outlook, with a formal sitting room balancing the open entertaining space for those seeking a more intimate affair before a timber staircase leads up to the dramatic water aspects. Nurtured by views or the

ADDRESS: 24 Herbert Street, MORNINGTON FOR SALE: $2,200,000 - $2,400,000

rear garden, the impressive bay outlook delivers a striking back-drop to first-floor entertaining, as an informal lounge converges with a covered balcony featuring electric roller blinds to complete the home’s entertaining dimensions. Creating its own sanctuary with a treetop perspective, the master suite embraces the morning light and connects with the fourth bedroom to create an ideal home office or nursery configuration. Complete with a sun-drenched deck, leafy gardens with cascading veggie patches and a detached rumpus space and ample storage this rare beachside offering is perfectly situated to provide the very best of beachside living.n

DESCRIPTION: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car, 1068 square metres

AGENT: Kristen Cumming 0404 146 235, Belle Property Mount Eliza, 0410 416 987, 40 Mount Eliza Way, Mount Eliza, 9787 1200

Rosebud 2 Cass Street

So Much Charm.

Just a 500-metre stroll to the beach and shops, this beautiful home is surrounded by established gardens and quaint picket fencing. The substantial open plan living area at the heart of this home is flooded with natural light and also comprises the kitchen with gas stove top, undercounter oven and a Bosch dishwasher. From the adjoining meals area you step out to a sunny alfresco courtyard. The three bedrooms all have built in robes and share the sparkling central bathroom with separate shower and bath. Complete with gas heating, evaporative and split system air-conditioning plus a single lock up garage and additional off-street parking, this home will appeal to all buyers.

3 1 2

AUCTION

Saturday 8th April at 12:30pm

INSPECT By Appointment

CONTACT

Paul Cunnington 0457 047 962

Thomas Solunto 0401 872 780

Barry Plant Rosebud 5986 8880

1

Capel Sound 45A Cootamundra Avenue

As New And Providing A Beautiful Aspect.

Under builders warranty and located in a quiet pocket of Capel sound comes this beautifully presented three bedroom plus study property featuring a large open plan living with fully-equipped galley kitchen. Outdside is a beautiful alfresco area with heating, and a wide deck that overlooks Chinamans Creek which affords a tranquil ambience for entertaining or relaxing. The home is complete with single garage, continuous flow hot water, gas ducted heating, reverse cycle air conditioning, water tank with pump and all landscaping.A short walk to Capel Sound foreshore this home is the perfect downsizer or weekender.

3 2

AUCTION

Saturday 15th April at 12:30pm

INSPECT By Appointment

CONTACT

Craig Leo 0412 502 938

Thomas Solunto 0401 872 780

Barry Plant Rosebud 5986 8880

Rosebud 68 Sixth Avenue

Unrivalled Half Acre, Beachside!

Nestled between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, only 400 meters to Point Nepean Road and the pristine foreshore, is this allotment of 2338sqm approx. allotment, offered for the first time in over 40 years. Subject to council approval, the land offers unlimited opportunities for potential townhouse development or apartment style living complex with water views from a second level. The existing period home consists of three bedrooms and two bathrooms and could be let while the planning approval process is in place.

All offers to be submitted on contract by 4pm on April 14th, 2023

3 2 1

SALE BY SET DATE

Offers Close 14th April 2023 at 4pm

INSPECT By Appointment

CONTACT

Paul Cunnington 0457 047 962

Craig Leo 0412 502 938

Barry Plant Rosebud 5986 8880

Capel Sound 7 Whyte Street

Step into the Market.

Compact townhouse, built circa 2016, offering modern living and low maintenance on approx. 333 sqm. The home offers an open plan living and dining area flooded with an abundance of natural northerly light, and also has a study nook for homework or working from home. This opens onto the covered alfresco deck and sundrenched courtyard with established trees. The kitchen is equipped with modern cabinetry, electric cooking, double sink and large double pantry. The master bedroom has its own ensuite and the second bedroom is serviced by a sparkling central bathroom. The home is currently let on a month to month basis to at $740 per fortnight. The tenant has indicated a preference to enter into another long-term lease, if offered.

2 2 1

FOR SALE

$595,000 - $645,000

INSPECT

By Appointment

CONTACT

Paul Cunnington 0457 047 962

Thomas Solunto 0401 872 780

Barry Plant Rosebud 5986 8880

MAXIMISE YOUR FINANCIAL OUTCOME WITH THE RIGHT ADVICE CALL US FOR AN ASSESSMENT TODAY

Peter Dodd: 0403 409 096

Stephen Dodd: 0478 037 774 www

authentic, real

The Guide

TOP PICKS OF THE WEEK

FRIDAY BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS

SEVEN, 7pm

Fancy checking out the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show but can’t make it to the city? Here’s your ticket, along with Johanna Griggs (left), Graham Ross, Charlie Albone and Melissa King as your trusty tour guides. Charlie and Melissa both design and create their own garden, revealing what inspired their little piece of green. If you’ve been pottering about your own patch of grass wondering how to jazz it up, this plant-loving episode is prime inspiration.

THURSDAY 12 YEARS A SLAVE

SBS WORLD MOVIES, 8.30pm

This moving tale about slavery scooped Best Picture at the 2014 Oscars, and it’s easy to see why. Chiwetel Ejiofor (right) is heartbreaking as Solomon Northup, a sophisticated family man living in New York in 1841, who is suddenly kidnapped and sold into slavery. Stripped of his life and freedom, he endures years of brutality – especially from sadistic slave owner Edwin Epps (Michael Fassbender) – from myriad people who believe they are exercising their rights.

SATURDAY WONDER WOMAN

NINE, 8.30pm

Directed by Patty Jenkins, Wonder Woman is a compelling and stunningly shot exploration of the origins of the female superhero. Gal Gadot (Fast & Furious, above) commands the screen as the titular character, with a welcome emphasis on her strength and conviction, rather than her beauty. Set during World War I, Gadot is in her element as the fierce warrior trying to stop a global threat, while also discovering her true destiny. It’s a fun, thoughtful, passionate and often disarmingly humorous blockbuster. Chris Pine and Robin Wright also have starring roles.

SATURDAY UNDER THE VINES

ABC TV, 8.20pm

Daydreaming about uprooting to the country to eke out an idyllic life on a vineyard has become a mainstream folly. In this charming Kiwi drama, Rebecca Gibney (Packed to the Rafters) and Charles Edwards (Downton Abbey) play a pair of strangers who somehow inherited a winery in New Zealand together. Of course, it isn’t

Thursday, March 30

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG) Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Dinosaur With Stephen Fry: Killer Dinosaurs. (PG) Part 3 of 4.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Football. AFL. Round 3. Western Bulldogs v Brisbane Lions. From Marvel Stadium, Melbourne.

The Streets. Part 5 of 5.

9.20 Griff’s Canadian Adventure: Coldness. (R) Griff Rhys Jones visits Manitoba, North Canada.

10.10 Art Works. (PG, R)

10.40 ABC Late News.

10.55 The Business. (R) 11.10 Back In Time For The Corner Shop. (PG, R) 12.10 Q+A. (R)

1.15 Parliament Question Time. 2.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

4.30 The Drum. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

8.30 The Elon Musk Show. (Premiere)

Part 1 of 3. The intimate story of Elon Musk’s journey to become the world’s richest man.

9.40 Vigil. (MA15+av) Kristen closes in on the killer, only to have their capture reveal a threat to the Vigil

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 Exit. (MA15+ads)

12.05 The Eagle. (Malsv, R)

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. A wrap-up of the game, including panel discussion and interviews, with access to players, coaches and staff.

11.00 The Latest: Seven News.

11.30 To Be Advised.

12.45 Black-ish. (Return, PGd) Bow convinces Dre to attend a fundraising event where they meet Michelle Obama.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 RBT. (PGl, R) A look at random breath test patrols.

8.30 Paramedics. (Ma, R) The fun ambulance helps seriously ill children escape from their daily challenges.

9.30 Australia Behind Bars.

(Madl, R) Presented by Melissa Doyle.

10.30 A+E After Dark. (Mlm, R)

11.25 Nine News Late.

11.50 Prison. (Mal, R) 12.40 Tipping Point.

(PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 Taskmaster Australia. (PGls) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.

8.30 Gogglebox Australia. TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows.

9.30 Harley Breen: Flat Out. (Mls) A stand-up performance by award-winning comedian Harley Breen from Melbourne’s Malthouse Theatre.

11.00 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news and events.

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

4.10 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.40 Bamay. (R)

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise. News, sport and weather.

12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

Friday, March 31

6.00 The Drum. Analysis of the day’s news.

7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at today’s top stories.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Jane Edmanson visits a quirky home garden.

8.30 Van Der Valk. (Mav) Part 2 of 3. A murder leads Van der Valk and the team deep into the world of colonialism.

10.00 Jack Irish. (Malv, R) Part 2 of 4.

10.55 ABC Late News. Coverage of the day’s events.

11.15 Close To Me. (Mals, R)

A woman loses her memory.

12.00 Traces. (Madl, R)

12.45 Smother. (Mal, R)

1.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Wrecks That Changed The World: Failed Invasions. (PG) Takes a look at shipwrecks.

8.30 Walking Britain’s Lost Railways: Cornwall. (R) Rob Bell explores how copper mining once dominated Cornwall and follows two of the region’s first railways.

9.25 Viking Empires: The Dynasty Of Ivarr. (PGav, R) Part 2 of 2.

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Gomorrah. (MA15+av, R)

1.40 Romulus. (MA15+av, R) 3.35 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs meets the Gelato Queen.

7.30 Football. AFL. Round 3. Collingwood v Richmond.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews.

11.00 Armchair Experts. (M) A panel discusses all things AFL.

12.00 MOVIE: All-American Girl: The Mary Kay Letourneau Story. (2000, Mas, R) A teacher and student begin an affair. Penelope Ann Miller.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

Saturday, April 1

6.00 Back In Time For The Corner Shop: 1970s. (PG, R) Part 4 of 5.

7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at today’s top stories.

7.30 The Larkins. (PG) Mariette and Charley return home.

8.20 Under The Vines. (PG) As preparations for the showcase continue, Tippy, Gus and Daisy try to put Louis back on track.

9.05 Grantchester. (Mv, R) After a member of Will’s congregation is found murdered, it turns out he might have misjudged the victim.

9.55 Miniseries: In Our Blood. (Mls, R) Part 2 of 4.

10.50 Traces. (Madls, R)

11.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

Figure World Championships. Highlights. 3.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Volta a Catalunya. 4.30 Cook Up Bitesize. (R) 4.35 Pluto: Back From The Dead. (R) 5.45 Lost Gold Of World War II. (PGal, R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The World’s Most Beautiful Landscapes: The Amazon. (Final, PG) Narrated by Robert Lindsay.

8.30 Charles: The New King. (PGa, R) Part 1 of 2. Explores the important and pivotal moments in the life of King Charles III.

10.25 Planet Sex With Cara Delevingne: Monogamish. (Mals)

11.15 Outlander. (MA15+)

12.25 Germinal. (Premiere, Masv)

1.20 Bamay. (R)

1.59 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG, R)

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. The Star Championships. Day 1 and Golden Mile Race Day.

5.00 Seven News At 5.

5.30 Border Security: Australia’s

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Football. AFL. Round 3. St Kilda v Essendon.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. A wrap-up of the game, including panel discussion and interviews, with access to players, coaches and staff.

11.00 MOVIE: Takers. (2010, Mlv, R) A cop pursues a gang of thieves. Chris Brown, Paul Walker.

1.15 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 2. Melbourne SuperSprint. Day 1. Highlights.

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Escape To The Chateau. The Chateau is making up for lost time.

8.30 MOVIE: Red Dog. (2011, PGals, R)

A dog manages to unite a remote outback community while searching for his dead master. Josh Lucas, Rachael Taylor.

10.30 MOVIE: The Adventures Of Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert. (1994, Mls, R) Guy Pearce.

12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.20 9Honey Hacks. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Postcards. (PG,

R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mlv, R) Guests include Jamie Lee Curtis.

9.30 Taskmaster Australia. (PGls, R) Comedy game show featuring comedians performing a series of tricky tasks.

10.30 Just For Laughs Australia. (Mls, R) Hosted by Nick Cody.

11.00 Just For Laughs Uncut. (MA15+als, R) Hosted by Nikki Osborne.

11.30 The Project. (R)

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00 Nine News Saturday.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Space Invaders. (PGa) The team tackles two neighbouring homes.

8.30 MOVIE: Wonder Woman.

(2017, Mav, R) An Amazonian princess leaves her isolated island home to help end World War I. Gal Gadot, Chris Pine, Robin Wright.

11.10 MOVIE: Good Kill.

(2014, Malsv, R) Ethan Hawke.

1.00 From Hell: Caught On Camera. (Mlv)

1.30 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (PG, R) 2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents.

6.00 10 News First.

7.00 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith.

8.00 Blue Bloods. (Mv) Anthony surprises Erin with one last stakeout before her run for district attorney.

9.00 CSI: Vegas. (PGl) A woman wakes up from a four-year coma and remembers details from the night her sister died.

10.00 NCIS. (Mav, R) A ride-share driver is murdered.

11.00 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mav, R) A navy deserter comes out of hiding. 12.00 Bull. (Ma, R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

4.00 Get Arty. (R) A showcase of art projects.

5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)

(PGa) 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

Brumbies v NSW Waratahs.

Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 6. ACT Brumbies v NSW

9.30 Super Rugby Pacific Post-Match.

MOVIE: Hang ’Em High. (1968, M)

6am Children’s Programs. 2pm MOVIE: Pokémon: Arceus And The Jewel Of

6.30 Compass: The Love Of My Life. (PGa)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (Final, Ma)

A prestigious chess match ends in murder.

8.30 Miniseries: In Our Blood. (Mals) Part 3 of 4. A new wave of prejudice against the gay community leads to a spike in violence.

9.20 Close To Me. (Mals) Jo seeks help from a support group.

10.10 Finding Alice. (Mls, R)

10.55 MotherFatherSon. (MA15+dlns, R)

12.00 Smother. (Mal, R) 12.50 Road To Now. (Mav, R) 1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.20 The Heights. (PG, R) 4.15 The Recording Studio. (PG, R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)

Monday, April 3

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Ancient Egypt: Top 7 Pyramids. Explores ancient Egypt’s pyramids.

8.30 Easter Island: The Ancient Builders. (R) Explores the construction techniques used by the Rapa Nui people of Easter Island.

9.30 Muhammad Ali. (Mav, R) Part 1 of 4. Takes a look at one of the best-known sports figures of the 20th century: Muhammad Ali.

12.00 24 Hours In Emergency. (Ma, R)

1.50 How The Nazis Lost The War. (PGa, R)

3.40 The Source. (Ma, R) 4.30 Mastermind Australia. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera News.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 This Is Your Life: Rebecca Gibney. (PGav, R)

8.50 Code 1: The Childers Backpacker Fire. (Mav) Takes a look at the 2000 fire at the Childers Palace Backpacker Hostel in Queensland.

9.50 Manhunt: Nurse Killer. (Masv, R) A look at the manhunt for Robert Adams.

10.50 Born To Kill? (MA15+av)

11.50 Autopsy USA. (Mad, R)

12.50 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Round 2. Melbourne SuperSprint. Day 2. H’lights. From Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit, Melbourne. 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Seven Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Nine News Sunday.

7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls)

8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians.

9.40 Nine News Late. A look at the latest news and events.

10.10 Australian Crime Stories: The X Factor. (Mv, R) A look at the case of Nicola Gobbo.

11.15 The First 48: Monster. (MA15+alv)

12.05 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (Madv, R)

1.00 The Garden Gurus. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 Take Two. (R) 5.00 News Early Edition. 5.30 Today.

6.30 The Sunday Project. Panellists dissect, digest and reconstitute the daily news, events and hottest topics.

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (Return) A group of Aussie celebrities compete in a test of survival in the wilds of Africa.

9.30 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv, R) When a navy petty officer is murdered, Jane and the team investigate while also protecting the victim’s friend.

10.30 FBI. (Mv, R) A cross-country serial killer is on the loose.

11.30 The Sunday Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

Hosted by Paul Barry.

9.35 Q+A. Public affairs program.

10.35 China Tonight. (Final, R)

11.10 ABC Late News.

11.25 The Business. (R)

11.40 Melbourne Comedy Festival Gala. (R)

1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 4.30 The Drum. (R) 5.30

7.30. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Britain By Beach: Wales. (PG) Part 4 of 4.

8.30 Irish Road Trip With Miriam Margolyes. (M) Miriam Margolyes’ road trip takes her across Ireland in order to incorporate three major historical events.

9.30 24 Hours In Emergency: Labour Of Love. (Mal, R) A compilation of stories from King’s College.

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Infiniti. (Final, MA15+v)

12.00 Beforeigners. (Malsv, R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PGad) Documents the work of the highway patrol.

8.30 MOVIE: Crazy Rich Asians. (2018, Ml, R) A university professor gets a shock when she agrees to meet her boyfriend’s family. Constance Wu, Henry Golding, Michelle Yeoh.

11.00 The Latest: Seven News.

11.30 How To Look Good Naked. (Man, R)

12.30 Kochie’s Business Builders. (R)

1.00 Last Chance Learners. (PG, R)

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Final, Mals)

It is time for the reunion finale.

9.00 RPA. (PGm) A woman undergoes marathon surgery to remove a recurrence of a rare type of cancer.

10.00 Footy Classified. (M) Footy experts tackle the AFL’s big issues.

11.00 Nine News Late.

11.25 The Equalizer. (Mv, R)

12.15 Murder In A Small Town. (MA15+av, R)

1.10 Hello SA. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV

6.30 The Project.

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! Hosted by Julia Morris and Dr Chris Brown.

9.00 Would I Lie To You? Australia. (Ml) Two teams, including Cal Wilson, Dilruk Jayasinha, Georgie Carroll and Jock Zonfrillo, go head-to-head.

10.00 Ghosts. (PGad) Elias Woodstone returns to the manor. 10.30 Best Of The Sydney Comedy Festival. (MA15+ls, R)

With

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

3.40 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.40 Bamay. (R)

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair.

(R) 5.00 News Early Edition. 5.30 Today.

Tuesday, April 4

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? US: Bryan Cranston.

8.30 Insight. Presented by Kumi Taguchi.

9.30 Dateline: Scotland’s Airbnb Crackdown. A look at the issue of short-term lets.

10.00 SBS World News Late.

3.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 4.30 The Drum. (R) 5.30

7.30. (R)

10.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (PG, R) 11.10 Manayek. (Madlv) 12.05 La Unidad. (MA15+av, R) 2.05 Miniseries: The Salisbury Poisonings. (Mal, R) 3.55 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGas)

7.30 We Interrupt This Broadcast. (PGlv) Sketch comedy series.

8.30 The Good Doctor. (Ma) Shaun seeks legal representation and puts his faith in a promising, young lawyer who has OCD.

9.30 Quantum Leap. (PGa) Ben finds himself in 2012 helping a family’s transgender daughter who dreams of playing basketball.

10.30 The Latest: Seven News.

11.00 Police Custody USA. (Malv)

12.00 MOVIE: Farewell, My Love. (2000, MA15+lv, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Seven Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Frozen Planet II: Frozen Worlds. (Return, PGa) Narrated by Sir David Attenborough.

8.40 To Be Advised.

10.40 Nine News Late. A look at the latest news and events.

11.10 Chicago Med. (MA15+am) Daniel and April take on a mysterious patient.

12.00 Court Cam. (Mlv)

12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

4.30 A Current Affair. (R)

5.00 News Early Edition. 5.30 Today.

Wednesday, April

6.00 The Drum.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Hard Quiz. (PG) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

8.30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG) A satirical news program.

9.00 Melbourne Comedy Festival Allstars Supershow.

Hosted by Hannah Gadsby.

11.05 ABC Late News.

11.20 The Business. (R)

11.35 Frayed. (MA15+l, R) 12.25 Finding Alice. (Mls, R) 1.10 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 4.30 The Drum. (R)

5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Alone Australia. (Ml) Hunger is becoming a driving force.

8.35 Michael Palin: Into Iraq.

Part 1 of 3. Michael Palin embarks on a 1609km adventure through Iraq.

9.30 Rogue Heroes. (Premiere, MA15+) During World War II, a young officer creates a radical plan that flies in the face of the rules of modern warfare.

10.35 SBS World News Late.

11.05 Furia. (MA15+av)

12.00 The Sleepers. (MA15+av, R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)

8.30 The Front Bar. (M) Hosts Mick Molloy, Sam Pang and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.

9.30 To Be Advised.

10.30 The Latest: Seven News.

11.00 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous: Blood Sport – The Bondi Gay Murders. (MA15+av, R) Takes a look at a series of murders.

12.20 Filthy Rich. (Mav, R)

1.20 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Travel Guides. (PGl, R) Ordinary Australians become travel critics.

8.30 To Be Advised.

9.30 Footy Classified. (M) Footy experts tackle the AFL’s big issues.

10.30 Nine News Late.

11.00 See No Evil: Last Night Apart. (Ma)

11.50 Ordinary Joe. (Ma)

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R)

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! The celebrities are still adjusting to camp life and now come face to face with the jungle’s most terrifying snakes.

9.00 NCIS. (PGv) The NCIS team jumps into motion to investigate who is responsible for a potential bioterror attack at a strip mall parking garage. Knight’s father deals with a health scare while in Japan.

11.00 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news and events.

12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Late-night talk show.

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! Hosted by Julia Morris and Dr Chris Brown.

9.00 Law & Order: SVU. (Mav) Detectives search for an ambulance driver who is abducting and raping female patients.

10.00 Fire Country. (PGa) The crew works to contain a forest fire. 11.00 Bull. (Ma, R) 12.00 The Project. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

3.20 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.20 Bamay. (R)

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

A Current Affair. (R)

1.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS

Young students off on Malaysia exchange

AN intrepid group of year eight students from Peninsula Grammar have embarked on an exchange adventure to Malaysia.

The eleven students will spend eight days abroad, visiting cultural and tourist sites in Kuala Lumpur, and attending classes at the school’s Peninsula International School in the city.

“This will be a wonderful opportunity for our students to experience the sights and sounds of Malaysia”, said Muriel Bakker, the school’s Community Engagement Manager.

“Not only will they be there as tourists, but also as students, taking part in the structured classes of the existing students at the Malaysia campus of the school.

“We believe the students will gain much cultural insight and the local students, many of whom are from diverse backgrounds, will gain cultural insight from our Australian students.”

While attending school, the students will be “home-staying” with the families of students at the Malaysia campus, experiencing the food and lifestyles in a residential environment.

Over the last few months, the group have been chatting with their new classmates in Malaysia, and making the connections that will lead to enduring friendships.

The students departed on Saturday 25 March and will return Saturday 1 April.

“I am impressed by the resilience and confidence shown by these young students to head overseas on this adventure”, said Peninsula Grammar Principal, Stuart Johnston.

“At our school, we offer the tools for students to extend themselves to maximize their potential.

“Whether it is drama or debating, cadets or sport, we believe that leadership skills can be gained outside the classroom, as well as inside it.

100 YEARS AGO THIS WEEK...

“The fortitude these students have shown to travel overseas at such a young age illustrates the skills and abilities that create the leaders of the future. Something we are very proud of.

“We cannot wait for the students to return and tell us of their adventures”.

Cr. Oates assulted - brothers charged

Compiled by Cameron McCullough

Four brothers, John Francis Skinner, William Lindsay Skinner, Mark Skinner and Daniel Skinner were charged with offensive behaviour at Frankston on the 19th inst.

Senior-Constable Cullane conducted the prosecution and Mr. H. Shelton appeared for the defendants, who pleaded not guilty.

Albert Shannon, grocer, gave evidence to the effect that at about 5.30pm on the day in question he saw the four defendants fighting amongst themselves near Wheeler’s chemist’s shop, in Playne Street, Frankston.

One man was knocked down and while he was down one of the others kicked him.

The men continued fighting on towards the new picture theatre. Witness saw Constable Mahoney arrive and take two of the men into custody. The other defendants continued to fight on their way to the police station.

When they were opposite Keast’s shop witness heard one of the defendants say to Cr. Oates who was walking behind:

“You are the — man who caused this trouble.” The man then struck Cr. Oates.

There was a crowd of 200 or 300 people about at the time. Witness was also struck, but he could not say by whom.

To Mr. Shelton: Witness saw five men fighting. Did not know at the time that defendants were brothers. They had taken enough liquor to make them nasty. The man witness saw knocked down may have been the defendant now in court wearing a returned soldier’s badge.

Witness could not say if that defendant was suffering from shell shock.

Thomas Bennett, corn merchant, said he saw the defendants on the day named. They were arguing the point at Wheeler’s corner, and then started fighting among themselves.

Three of the defendants went into the new picture theatre. Constable Mahoney came along, entered the building, and came out with two of the defendants.

The constable took them in the direction of the lock-ups and the others followed. Witness saw one of the defendants who was walking behind, strike Cr. Oates.

Mr. Shannon went to Cr. Oates’ assistance and he also was struck. All the defendants were under the influence of liquor.

William James Gates, farmer and dairyman, said on the day in question he was standing near his shop when he saw defendants fighting. One was on the ground when another kicked him.

Witness went to the phone to call the police, but found that three other residents were ahead of him.

Witness went over to the men who were still fighting and Constable Mahoney arrived shortly after.

The constable took two men away and the others followed. One of the defendants asked witness what he was interfering for and witness replied that he was a Justice of the Peace.

When they got to Shannon’s store one of the defendants struck witness. The four defendants now in court took part in the fighting.

When opposite the Shire Hall a fair brawl took place.

It was one of the worst exhibitions witness had seen. The fighting and language were something awful.

Mr. Shelton: When you say it was a fair brawl, I suppose. you mean it was unfair? – It was a disgrace.

You are a man with a grievance, because you were struck? – I was struck. You took part in the arrest? – Yes.

These men did not know you were a Justice of the Peace till you told them? – No.

Did you see what led up to the fighting? – No, I saw one man on the ground and another kicking him.

Never mind the kicking. Even if you are a Justice of the Peace you are a witness at present. Did you see no one trying to help the man on the ground to get up? – I saw the man on the ground and two others fighting.

One of the two fell and the other put his boot into him. Mounted–Constable Mahoney said he saw the four defendants engaged in a brawl. Witness ordered them away.

They stopped fighting for a while, and then started again. He arrested two of the defendants and was proceeding with them to the lockup when he heard someone call “Look out.”

Witness returned and saw Mr Shannon holding his hand to his face.

Witness then arrested John Francis Skinner and later on took Daniel Skinner in charge.

To Mr. Sheldon: Witness understood that the four defendants were brothers and resided at Chelsea. He could not deny that they had resided at Chelsea for the last four years and had a good record and had not been previously known to the police.

Defendants on the 19th had been in the Frankston court in connection with a civil case. Senior-Constable Callane said there was no previous record against defendants.

Mr. Shelton, for the defence, said the four brothers after attending in a civil case at the Frankston court on the 19th inst. had evidently taken too much drink.

They were residents of Chelsea and had resided there for the last four years. They were registered bookmakers’ clerks and had never previously been in trouble.

They were all young men, the eldest being 25 and the youngest 21 years of age. The eldest was a returned soldier and suffered from shell shock.

In his condition he should not touch drink. When he did drink he was subject to fits and became very violent.

The citizens of Frankston when they saw these men in the street did not know they were brothers, and that every endeavour was being made to get the elder brother to leave the town.

He evidently thought that the younger brothers had no right to discipline him. Mr. Shelton said that it was not proposed to contest the facts; the defendants were too far gone in drink to know what did take place.

He suggested that the case should be adjourned for six months to see how defendants behaved themselves. This system has been tried in suburban courts with considerable success.

He would call evidence as to good character.

Thomas Naylor, tobacconist, Chelsea, said he had been a resident of Chelsea for 7 or 8 years, and had known defendants for four years.

They were always well behaved. The eldest brother was a returned soldier and suffered from the effects of gas or shell shock. They all followed the occupation of bookmakers’ clerks, and ordinarily were very quiet.

The chairman severely lectured the defendants, and in doing so he each warned them not to appear before the court again.

ASSAULT ON CR. OATES

Daniel Skinner was then charged with assaulting Cr. Oates.

William James Oates added to the evidence given in the former case.

When opposing Shannon’s defendant said to witness: “You are the one who got us into all this trouble; I will kill you.”

He then struck witness on the side of the head. Witness struck back and was then knocked down by someone at the back, striking him a blow behind the ear. Witness was dazed and did not remember what else took place till he found himself near the Shire Hall. A bone in witness’s hand was broken necessitating medical attention.

Mr. Shelton: I suppose you feel like McTigue when he struck Siki? – I don’t know how I hurt my hand.

J.P. or no J.P. you were prepared to defend yourself? – Of course.

You got in one or two good ones yourself? – I am not complaining.

That’s what McTigue said.

Thomas Bennett said he saw defendant strike Cr. Oates.

Mr. Shelton said that as defendant had already been fined, the Bench might take a lenient view of the present charge.

The chairman said the Bench considered the offence was a serious one.

Cr. Oates had been compelled to seek medical attention and defendant would have to pay for that. A fine of £20/-/with 42/- costs would be imposed.

***

From the pages of the Frankston and Somerville Standard, 28 & 30 Mar 1923

Grand adventure: Peninsula Grammar year eight students Lottie, Olivia, Violette, Jayde, Judd, Chloe, Wil, Emily, Paige, Anthony and Kennedy at Melbourne Airport and, right, at Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur. Pictures: Supplied

PUZZLE ZONE

6. Prized shellfish

12. Beer

15. Maltreating

16. Teasing

17. Improve

19. Sicken

20. Proverbs

22. Grind (teeth)

23. Single

THE MEANING OF EXISTENCE... AND OTHER SHORT STORIES

Puzzles supplied by Lovatts Publications Pty Ltd

www.lovattspuzzles.com

See page 29 for solutions.

Baby Shark – A Journey Into Madness

By Stuart McCullough

EVEN now, I can’t tell you how I did it. By the grace of God, I managed to exist for five decades on this planet without ever hearing ‘Baby Shark’ from start to finish. Granted, I’d heard people complain about it, describing how it’d taken over and, ultimately, ruined their lives. I couldn’t understand their anguish or even imagine a world as hellish as the one they described. That has now changed.

When you’re in a car, there’s nowhere to go. This is ironic, because the whole point of a car is to go somewhere unless, of course, you’re stuck in traffic or trying to park. But, in truth, what I mean is that in a car there’s nowhere to which you can escape. You’re stuck, listening to whatever ear-melting musical demon the person in control of the stereo sees fit to conjure up.

We’ve developed a tradition whereby I surrender my phone and everyone else takes turns adding their song of choice to the queue. That way, you’re all guaranteed to hear a tune you like at least once every six songs. It sounds simple, but it’s not. Sometimes, there are delightful surprises. Sometimes, however, things take a darker turn and someone selects something they know is truly and irredeemably evil.

When it began, I had no idea what was happening. Ignorance is not just bliss, but a form of self-deception that lets you wallow in a false sense of security when, by rights, you ought to be exiting the vehicle and running with your hands in the

air, screaming. In retrospect, I wish someone had invented airbags for ears that could be programmed to deploy whenever it senses the opening bars of ‘Baby Shark’.

The video for the Pinkfong version of ‘Baby Shark’ is the most watched video on YouTube of all time with some twelve billion views. It is, I

feel, definitive evidence that the Internet is fundamentally broken and should be abolished. Upon learning this, I was both impressed with myself at avoiding it for so long and vaguely disappointed at how colossally out of touch I am.

For those of you who’ve assumed ‘Baby Shark’ is a relatively recent as-

sault on the senses, it’s origins stretch right back to the movie ‘Jaws’. It’s believed that in response to the Steven Spielberg munch-a-thon ‘Jaws’, camp counselors invented an early version of the song ‘Baby Shark’. At that time, the song was reasonably gruesome and involved sailors being devoured and going to heaven where, presumably, the inhabitants get to spend eternity in perpetual bliss, never having to hear ‘Baby Shark’ ever again.

But when ‘Jaws’ was released, the Internet was yet to be invented. Which, once again, goes to prove what a dead-set genius Spielberg is in anticipating viral marketing decades ahead of time. It’s debatable as to whether ‘Jaws’ would have been more or less terrifying had it featured the song ‘Baby Shark’ rather than the score by John Williams.

Had ‘Baby Shark’ remained a campfire tune used to frighten city kids while away from their parents, most of us would never have heard of it and, I dare say, the world would be a better place. But some people weren’t content to allow cat videos to run the Internet and tried to intervene by rolling out various versions of ‘Baby Shark’. There was a 2007 edition by an artist called ‘Alemuel’. It’s in German and is so darkly horrifying that it’s enough to make you avoid water for the rest of your life.

A guy from upstate New York did his take on ‘Baby Shark’ way back in 2011. It sounds a lot like the current version but the accompanying video features a middle-aged dude called ‘Johnny Only’ instead of cute chil-

dren and, as a result, is nowhere near being the most watched YouTube video of all time. This is a complete travesty.

The Pinkfong version – which is now regarded as definitive – was released in 2015. It has now been viewed more than twelve billion times. Which, by any measure, is a lot. Originally, I made the mistake of thinking ‘Pinkfong’ was a band, but according to Wikipedia it’s an ‘education brand’. In other words, it’s a company. Frankly, I’m not sure how I feel about corporate entities releasing songs, as it’s a role traditionally filled by musicians. It’s not as though rock bands try and teach children to count. Or, if they do, they rarely go beyond ‘one-two-three-four!’

It made me wonder – which video did ‘Baby Shark’ overtake when it was crowned the ‘most streamed video all time?’ I’m glad you asked.

It was ‘Despacito’ by Luis Fonsi. Despite racking up a respectable eight billion or so views, I’d never heard of it. The video clip was okay, but Fonsi looked different than he used to when he lived in the room above the Cunningham’s garage.

When I hear ‘Baby Shark’, I am bewildered. It’s as though everything I know about music is meaningless. Worse still, I’ve started to feel sorry for sharks, generally. Having gone so long without ever being subjected to the aural atrocity that is ‘Baby Shark’, I can only hope that I can avoid it for another fifty years. Here’s hoping. Do do do do do do do.

All our screens are made using the highest quality timber to ensure your timber privacy screens never distort or age prematurely. Fixed using the highest quality stainless steel screws - your new timber screens will look great for years to come!

Screens can be trimmed or modified to suit a variety of applications and can be mounted horizontally, vertically or as you choose to create

SOUTHERN PENINSULA NEWS scoreboard

New name marks a new era for league

By Brodie Cowburn MPNFL

FOOTBALL returns to the Mornington Peninsula this weekend, with a few changes.

The former Mornington Peninsula Nepean Football League has undergone a name change. The 2023 Mornington Peninsula Football Netball League begins on Saturday, 1 April.

Optimists on bay

M ORNINGTON Yacht Club hosted the 2023 Optimist Dinghy Victorian Championships over the Labour Day long weekend.

The 78 entries were spread across three “optimist” fleets with competitors coming from WA, SA, Tasmania, NSW and all over Victoria.

After challenging weather for the Schnapper Point Regatta four weeks earlier, the weekend had the open and intermediate fleets competing in

One thing that remains unchanged is the eagerness of the footballers to get the season underway. Three seniors division one matches will take place on 1 April.

It will be a battle of the 2022 premiers on Saturday as reigning division one champions Frankston YCW take on division two premiers Langwarrin.

It was a dream 2022 for Langwarrin, who went the whole season without

losing a game. A win over the Stonecats would cement them as top division contenders.

The clash between Frankston YCW and Langwarrin takes place at 2pm at Lloyd Park on Saturday.

2022 runners up Bonbeach will host Frankston Bombers on Saturday afternoon. Pines and Mt Eliza will do battle at Eric Bell Reserve.

Round one will wrap up the follow-

ing weekend. Dromana and Red Hill will play at 2pm on Good Friday at Dromana Recreation Reserve. The next day, Sorrento hosts Rosebud.

In division two, Karingal will look to make amends for last year’s Grand Final defeat with a win over Mornington this Saturday. The two sides will play at Alexandra Park at 2pm, 1 April.

Other division two matches on Sat-

urday will see Devon Meadows play Pearcedale at Glover Reserve, Hastings host Seaford, and Crib Point take on Somerville at Crib Point Recreation Reserve.

There are two Good Friday matches scheduled in division two. Chelsea plays at home against Edithvale-Aspendale, and Tyabb will face Rye at Bunguyan Reserve.

winds of five to 18 knots.

The more advanced sailors completed eight championship-length races, and for the fun Green fleet, 20 entrants competed in 11 races on the more sheltered waters off Red Bluff.

For many competitors it was their first regatta and a chance for them to begin competitive sailing.

Results for the championships are at: morningtonyc.net.au

Sudoku and crossword solutions

Cleared for take-off

PARAGLIDERS are all clear to again take off from cliffs at Mount Martha.

Mornington Peninsula Shire Council in December 2021 agreed to back the Victorian Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association application for a licence to launch from above Craigie Beach, opposite Morrisons Avenue. The process involved the club seeking state government consent under the Marine and Coastal Act

and the shire submitting a proposed licence agreement to the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.

Paragliding had taken place at Craigie Beach for some years but was stopped because it was unlicenced.

“This is a great outcome for the sport. There are limited sites on the Mornington Peninsula where paragliding is possible, with Flinders and the Point Nepean National Park the only other locations,” the mayor Cr Steve Holland said.

Picture: Yanni

Orange wall stands firm

SOCCER

By Craig MacKenzie

WHEN the final whistle blew in Saturday’s State 1 clash at Comets Stadium visitor Mornington marched off the pitch with eight men and three points in a remarkable result.

Club president Matt Cameron described the 1-0 scoreline as “one of the greatest wins in the club’s history”.

But that was furthest from his mind in the 15th minute when referee Vince Turcarolo courted controversy with a straight red for Mornington midfielder Rhys Craigie after a challenge on Comets keeper Lajos Hun.

Ten minutes later the 10 men took the lead.

A superb interpassing move involving Rory Currie, Brady Pollard, Ziggy Razuki and Danny Brooks found Shaun Kenny who had made a well-timed run into the box before an excellent finish into the bottom corner.

As the second half unfolded it became increasingly clear that Comets had trouble opening up their opponent.

Then referee Turcarolo again became a pivotal character.

He sent off Brooks for a second caution in the 70th minute after the midfielder appeared to have been fouled yet was deemed to be the transgressor.

Ten minutes later Mornington defender Josh Heaton was shown a straight red for abusive language.

Yet despite its pronounced numerical advantage Comets couldn’t break the resolve and organisation of Mornington’s defensive wall and the final whistle heralded a memorable moment of triumph for the men from the peninsula.

In NPL2 news Langwarrin ended five weeks on the road in a blaze of glory by defeating Pascoe Vale 4-1 on Friday night and claiming top spot on the ladder.

Langy led in the 9th minute after a superb ball from Josh Varga in behind the defence enabled Brad Blumenthal to control and finish from a one-on-one with home side keeper Alex Pavlidis.

Pascoe Vale was reduced to 10 men in the 23rd minute after a second bad tackle on Blumenthal who had to be replaced by Tristan Meaker.

The substitute had a hand in Langy’s second in first-half time added when his cross found Archie Macphee for a tap-in.

Langy extended its 2-0 half-time lead in the 58th minute when Lenny Gregory played the ball wide to Luke Goulding and his cross was finished by Meaker from close range.

Pascoe Vale pulled a goal back three minutes later but Langy substitute Jacob Brito scored the goal of the game in the 88th minute.

He won the ball in midfield and skipped past three opponents then exchanged passes with Gregory before unleashing a left-foot strike from the edge of the area to complete an emphatic victory.

In State 2 news Peninsula Strikers enjoyed a 2-1 home win over a Mooroolbark side that fancies its chances this season.

Nathan Tsimis could have given Strikers a half-time lead but his leftfoot shot was deflected for a corner and the visitors took the upper hand in the 63rd minute with a long inswinging corner dipping late and

going in at the back post.

Strikers hit back with two goals in two minutes.

The Barkers failed to defend from a corner in the 70th minute and Andy McIntyre was at the far post to volley home for the equaliser.

The winner was engineered by the brilliance of Cooper Andrews who went past three opponents before delivering an inch-perfect cross for Campbell Steedman to sweep home into the far bottom corner.

The contest ended on a sour note in injury time for Strikers when substitute Moey Chehimi received two cautions within seconds of each other the first for handling and the second for blocking the resultant free-kick.

On Friday night the 10 men of Frankston Pines earned a 1-1 draw with visitor Skye United at Monterey Reserve.

Pines keeper Colby Jones was red carded in the 25th minute when he charged outside his area and scythed down Lewis Gibson with a poorly timed challenge.

From the resultant free-kick Skye veteran Mark O’Connor beat Pines’ second string keeper Pabel Rivera low down at his near post.

Pines were superb for long periods of this contest and their moment came in the 87th minute when a corner struck Skye defender Brett Heskins and went in.

In State 4 news a melee forced an early end to the 2-2 draw between White Star Dandenong and visitors Somerville Eagles on Friday night.

Somerville keeper Nick Bucello’s brilliant penalty save early in the contest kept the home side at bay until the 34th minute when White Star got in behind the visitors’ defence and Joel Bowen was given a simple finish.

Two minutes later Marcus Anastasiou smashed the ball home to make it 1-1.

White Star regained the lead in the 47th minute when an excellent far

post cross was headed home by Michael Bowen.

In the 74th minute Somerville hit the home side on the break with a Joe Simmons’ half volley rounding off the scoreline.

White Star’s frustrations spilled over two minutes later and Burak Baydar was sent off after clashing with Tom Simmons.

A Nick Simmons foul late in the contest sparked ugly scenes involving coaches, players and spectators and it’s believed that a report has been sent to Football Victoria for further investigation.

Baxter’s disappointing start to the season continued with a 2-1 loss to Sandringham at Baxter Park last weekend.

Sandringham led at half-time thanks to a pinpoint Sam Ghobrial cross from the left and a firm Will Hampson header at the far post.

The contest reached flashpoint after a melee in the 65th minute which resulted in a red card for Baxter midfielder Damien Miskulin.

But the home side hit back in the 75th minute after substitute Alex Piasentin got clear on the right and his low ball in behind the defence was struck first time by the incoming Aleks Dukic.

Five minutes later the euphoria of local fans ended abruptly when Sandringham’s Marcelo Burges chipped the ball back from the right and substitute Vasilios Natsioulas headed home a deserved winner.

Chelsea earned a second point away from home when it drew 2-2 with Endeavour United at Reema Reserve on Saturday.

Both Chelsea goals came in the first half the first from Diego Herrera with a low left-foot shot that beat Endeavour keeper Franc Marateo at his near post and the second from the spot by Adam Bartosy after Vinnie Van Dyk had been brought down inside the area.

In State 5 news Rosebud is on top of the ladder after downing Mentone

3-0 at Mentone Grammar last weekend.

Dougie Cunnison put the visitors 1-0 up in the 3rd minute with a beautifully timed low half-volley from just outside the area.

Hamish Preston was deputising for suspended Rosebud keeper Colin McCormack and he made some fine reflex saves before Luka Varga and good luck combined to make it 2-0 in the 54th minute and the contest was settled in the 64th minute with a Joe Donnelly goal.

Seaford thumped Pakenham United 9-0 at IYU Reserve thanks to goals from Josh Vega (3), Cory Osorio (2), Blake Hicks, Chris Moreel, Daniel Mota and Uchenna Ikogwe.

Mount Eliza’s first home game in State League didn’t go to script when Aspendale won 3-1 on Saturday.

Aspendale hit the front when new signing and ex-Beaumaris player Gianluca Bozzo thumped the ball into the roof of the net in the 18th minute.

Mount Eliza player-coach Bryce Ruthven hit back with a free kick in the 33rd minute that levelled the scores but Kieran Hughes restored the visitor’s lead in the 52nd minute and a wonder strike from substitute Felix Hampson a minute into time added sealed the deal.

Mount Martha’s flirtation with top spot on the ladder ended abruptly when it lost 5-0 away to Hampton Park United.

In Australia Cup news the round 4 ties involving the four local clubs remaining in the national competition have been confirmed.

On Wednesday 5 April Frankston Pines v St Albans, Monterey Reserve, 7.30pm and Skye United v Glenroy Lions, Carrum Downs Recreation Reserve, 7.30pm.

On Saturday 8 April (the Easter weekend) FC Clifton Hill v Mornington, Quarries Park, 3pm and on Tuesday 11 April Brandon Park v Langwarrin, Lawton Park, 7.30pm.

NEXT WEEK’S GAMES

Friday 31 March, 8.30pm: Chelsea v Lyndale Utd, Edithvale Recreation Reserve

White Star Dandenong v Baxter, Greaves Reserve

Friday 31 March, 8.45pm: Mornington v Bentleigh Utd Cobras, Dallas Brooks Park

Saturday 1 April, 3pm: Langwarrin v Preston Lions, Lawton Park

Mazenod v Peninsula Strikers, Brandon Park Reserve

Hampton East Brighton v Frankston Pines, Dendy Park

Brandon Park v Skye Utd, Freeway Reserve

Somerville Eagles v Noble Park, Tyabb Central Reserve

Seaford Utd v Mentone, North Seaford Reserve

Mount Eliza v Bunyip District, Emil Madsen Reserve

Aspendale v Pakenham Utd, Jack Grut Reserve

Saturday 1 April, 6.30pm: Rosebud v Casey Panthers, Olympic Park

Mount Martha BYE

Super Seagulls: Mornington match winner Shaun Kenny (left) and star midfielder Rhys Craigie who was controversially sent off in the 15th minute. Pictures: Darryl Kennedy

Lions Club of Rye