The Local Paper. Eastern Suburbs Edition. Wed., Dec. 4, 2024
■ Knox City Council has successfully prosecuted an unregistered cat breeding and import/ export business, resulting in a record fine of over $100,000.
A man and woman, along with their company Dollbell Pty Ltd (now deregistered), were charged with more than 60 offences relating to operating an unregistered domestic animal business from a Bayswater residential property.
Ringwood Magistrates Court found the couple and their company guilty of all charges. They were convicted and fined $105,000 plus ordered to pay Knox Council’s costs.
The couple was banned from operating a domestic animal business or selling cats for 10 years, which is the maximum prohibition period a court can impose.
The successful prosecution has resulted in the largest fine awarded for animal related offences in the Council’s history.
A raid on the property uncovered 49 cats and a number of newborn kittens, including Ragdoll and British Shorthair breeds. A number of un-
The Magistrate said that animal welfare was at the forefront of the case, and financial greed was the driving force behind the offending.
CASH, TOBACCO SEIZED IN RAIDS
■ A 32-year-old Mount Waverley man was last week arrested and subsequently charged with traffick commercial quantity of methyl-amphetamine, traffick cannabis, traffick ketamine and traffick cocaine. He was also charged with possessing over 150 Zanax tablets and possessing the proceeds of crime.
Victoria Police arrested 14 people and seized a firearm, more than $100,000 cash, gold bullion and almost a tonne of illicit tobacco as part of a national operation this week targeting the Comanchero Outlaw Motorcycle Gang.
Detectives from the Echo Taskforce, Illicit Firearms Squad and VIPER Taskforce conducted seven Firearm Prohibition Order searches on people linked to the Comancheros OMCG in Mount Waverley, Berwick, Craigieburn, Fraser Rise, Hillside, Corio and Tarneit.
The operation focused particularly on the link between OMCGs and their links to the illicit tobacco trade and other associated criminality.
● ● ● ●
Bayswater MLA Jackson Taylor has spoken with pride about developments at local schools: “We have just officially opened the new buildings at Templeton Primary School, a wonderful school in the heart of our community in Wantirna. Thank you to Rodney McKinlay the principal, to the leadership team and to all of the families, the staff and the students for all your patience. We have now delivered what has affectionately become known as the ‘white house’ –a double-storey, new senior learning building. They are absolutely some of the best facilities that we have opened since I was elected as the member for Bayswater in 2018. I am very proud to have secured this funding commitment and to now see kids using the facilities they absolutely deserve. We have also officially opened the new facilities at Boronia West Primary School, with over $4 million back in 2020, delivered to make sure that the students and staff and all the families have the facilities they absolutely deserve at this school in the very heart of Boronia, with again some of the very best views. I tell you what, this place is amazing. The school is amazing. They have the facilities that they deserve – bright, modern, accessible buildings. Thank you so much to the principal Penelope Harris and to the entire team.”
✖Eastern suburbs MP Nick McGowan has questioned why there is a staff toilet at an unstaffed railway station, but no public toilet. “No week would be complete of course without some reference to the toilet at Ringwood East train station, and a number of weeks ago I did write to the minister for transport because one of the reasons given for not having a toilet there is that the train station is not staffed. You would guess at my surprise when I learned there is actually a staff toilet there, so I have offered to the minister in writing to pay to change that sign to make it a public toilet. So that is still with the minister, and I would welcome her response. I will literally pay for the sign to be changed. Instead of saying ‘staff toilet’, it can say ‘public toilet’, because why would you need a staff toilet at a train station that is unstaffed?”
Take a walk in Blackburn: MP Mini Ads
■ State Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny
should accompany Box Hill MLA Paul Hamer on a walk in Blackburn to better understand the qualities that make the suburb unique.
“Blackburn has been identified as one of six activity centres on the Belgrave–Lilydale line as part of the government’s expanded activity centres program,” Mr Hamer said.
“Blackburn is a very special place with qualities found nowhere else in Melbourne. The residential area south of the station has the largest tree coverage of any suburb within 20 kilometres of the CBD and a large number of streets registered on the National Trust
The area is an oasis in the suburbia which surrounds it. The nearby Blackburn Lake Sanctuary is a wonderful bushland park and provides a haven for over 165 bird species.
“The streets extending outwards from the lake and across Blackburn Rd are an integral part of the ecology of the lake area and demonstrate an excellent integration between the natural and man-made environments.
“While the provision of additional housing in appropriate locations is important, any planning changes must recognise the unique environmental values that attract residents to a suburb in the first place.
“With the planning process expected to kick off in 2025, a visit by the minister so she can see for herself what Blackburn residents really love about their suburb will assist her putting together a plan that can respect the needs of the community. I look forward to her reply,” Mr Hamer said.
‘Glen Waverley is key to Loop’
■
“The Suburban Rail Loop East, from Glen Waverley to Cheltenham, will open up so many opportunities for economic growth,” according to local MLA, John Mullahy.
“Glen Waverley station is a busy and vibrant transport hub for so many. Located in the heart of my electorate, it is not only at the end of a train line but also a key station in many bus routes.
Added to this is the fact that it is adjacent to a major shopping centre, the Glen Waverley shopping centre, and Kingsway, as well as Glen Waverley Secondary College and the Glen Waverley library.
“In essence Glen Waverley station plays a vital role in facilitating the movement of many people through this busy area, and that is why it is important to ensure that we make the most of the opportunities that come with the station being in such a strategic position.
“We must take proactive action to ensure that both housing and services, including both bus and train services, are ready to deal with an increase in population. Under the great project of the Suburban Rail Loop, the Allan Labor Government has designated the area surrounding the Glen Waverley station as one of the activity precincts. A power of work has been undertaken to develop the draft precinct vision document.”
Community Gardens birthday
■ Bayswater MLA Jackson Taylor has wished happy 40th birthday to the Knox Community Gardens
“It was wonderful to be out there recently with the volunteer team as part of a huge open day for our community in Knox,” Mr Taylor said.
“They have been in our community providing fantastic plots with the best views anywhere this side of the Yarra, and I want to say thank you to each and very one of them,” Mr Taylor said.
●
● Paul Hamer, Box Hill MLA
Jackson Taylor MLA
John Mullahy MLA
● ● ● ● Nick McGowan MLC
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ABOUT US
Incorporating the traditions of the Evelyn Observer (Est. 1873), the Box Hill Reporter (Est. 1888), Doncaster-Templestowe News (Est. 1962), Maroondah Mail (Est. 1922), Knox-Sherbrooke News (Est. 1967), Mountain District Free Press (Est. 1946). Waverley Gazette (Est. 1961) Progress News
The Local Paper is published weekly online and printed fortnightly and circulates in local editions:
Columnists: Len Baker, Matt Bissett-Johnson, Rob Foenander, Peter Kemp, Aaron Rourke, Ted Ryan, Cheryl Threadgold, Julie Houghton, Kevin Trask, John O’Keefe
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Ash on Wednesday Fix local roads, Knox tells
■ Knox City Council is calling on the State Government to fix unsafe and unsightly major roads and median strips managed by VicRoads amid escalating residents’ concerns.
Knox Mayor, Cr Lisa Cooper said Council was calling for urgent action on issues like potholes and overgrown grass and vegetation posing safety and fire risks.
“Our residents are increasingly frustrated about the poor and unacceptable condition of road surfaces and the proliferation of potholes on major roads in Knox that are managed by VicRoads,” Cr Cooper said.
“Council is calling on the Victorian Government to improve the condition of their major roads, which are the subject of numerous and growing complaints from our residents and motorists travelling through Knox.
“The neglect of these major roads has resulted in critical issues for motorists in Knox, including the potential for vehicle damage from potholes and uneven surfaces and heightened risk of collisions from drivers swerving to avoid potholes or losing control after impact.
“This is especially dangerous on highspeed arterial roads where quick reactions and sudden manoeuvres can result in collisions with other vehicles. It’s an accident waiting to happen.
“Residents are increasingly concerned about lack of regular maintenance of grass and vegetation along the median strips of
roads managed by VicRoads, which has led to safety concerns such as reduced sight lines at intersections and increased threat of fire for surrounding properties and public spaces.”
Knox Council will write to Melissa Horne, Minister for Roads and Road Safety, and local state MPs Jackson Taylor, Daniela Di Martino and Kim Wells outlining concerns about the state of roads and medians along VicRoads ’ arterials in Knox and the immediate need for regular and sufficient maintenance to address safety risks, fire hazards and amenity impacts.
Knox Council is calling on the Department of Transport and Planning to allocate the necessary resources to ensure roads and median strips are adequately maintained.
Child stealing report at Blackburn
■ Box Hill Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team detectives are investigating a suspected attempted child stealing incident in Blackburn.
Police have been told an 11-year-old boy was walking home from school along Halley St when he was approached by an unknown man driving a white van about 3.45pm on Monday, November 18.
The man pulled onto the wrong side of the road, rolled down his window and told the boy his mum asked him to give him a lift home. The boy declined the man’s offer and the van drove away.
The victim, who was not physically injured, was able to walk home and notify his mum of the incident which was reported to police.
The man is perceived to be Caucasian in appearance, aged between 30-40 with dirty, matted, blonde hair.
Detectives have also released CCTV and images of a van seen in the area prior to the incident and wish to speak to the driver.
Any witnesses, anyone with CCTV, dash cam vision or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Rowville query
■ Melbourne Water has decided to close the Police Rd retarding basin and Rowville access path without any public consultation, according to Rowville MLA Kim Wells,
“Residents are feeling like this decision was made unilaterally without consulting any of the local residents who use the path on a daily basis,” Mr Wells said.
“This track is an essential link for residents in my community who want to walk or cycle between Rowville and Mulgrave, with the only other alternative being to go kilometres out of their way to make what is a short journey.
“Not only has this caused a significant inconvenience to locals but it is also possibly very dangerous and a safety hazard for the elderly and children, who now have to travel along the very busy Stud Rd to get to their destinations. Local residents deserve to be consulted,” Mr Wells said.
Prepare for danger
■ Yarra Valley Water is encouraging people in bushfire-prone areas to include emergency water supplies as part of their fire season preparations. The water authority recommends communities in high fire risk areas have alternative water supplies on hand in the event of a bushfire emergency.
Victoria is one of the most fire-prone places in the world, with high-risk areas in Yarra Valley Water’s service area including the shires of Yarra Ranges, Nillumbik, Cardinia, Mitchell, and Murrindindi, and the cities of Hume, Whittlesea, Banyule, Manningham, and Maroondah
Bridie Fennessy, General Manager Asset Services, said reliable water supply cannot be guaranteed during a bushfire emergency.
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
“Most people know the devastating impact bushfires can have on properties but may not be aware that they can damage water supply infrastructure too,” Ms Fennessy said.
“Bushfires are extreme, and customers can experience low water pressure, loss of supply or reduced water quality as a result. This could be because of equipment damage due to heat or fire, increased demand for water from firefighters, or power outages” she said.
Yarra Valley Water works with other agencies to prepare for the fire season and Ms Fennessy said the water corporation wants people in its service area to be ready too.
“The time to prepare is now, and we’d urge everyone to include drinking water in their bushfire kit. If you intend to defend your property, you also need to consider having an independent water supply as part of your bushfire plan,”
Ms Fennessy said it is important for customers to update their contact details with a mobile phone number to receive SMS updates during an emergency affecting water supplies.
Cheryl Threadgold, Local Theatre
Julie Houghton, The Arts Kevin Trask, Entertainment Aaron Rourke, Film
Ryan, Horse Racing Len Baker, Harness Racing
Bissett-Johnson, Cartoonist
Kemp, Art Rob Foenander, Music
Knox Mayor Cr Lisa Cooper with Deputy Cr Glen Atwell
Statewide
YARRAWONGA
Fallen tree branch
■ Police responded to the death of a man in Yarrawonga last Tuesday night (Nov. 26).
Emergency services were called to a camping area at Loop Track in Yarrawonga to reports a large tree branch had fallen onto a moving vehicle during a significant weather event about 7.10pm.
The driver died at the scene. A teenage boy was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries while a woman was taken to hospital for observation.
Exact circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be determined and police will prepare a report for the Coroner.
BEECHWORTH
Container theft
■ Wodonga Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance following a theft in Beechworth.
It is understood unknown offender/s attended a property on Flat Rock Rd between 1.30am and 5.15am on November 16.
They loaded a shipping container onto the back of a prime mover before fleeing the scene. Officers were told the shipping container had $25,000 worth of mining equipment inside it.
The prime mover is described as a white Mercedes Actros and it was towing two trailers. Investigators have released CCTV and images of a truck and a man who may be able to assist with their enquiries. The man is described as wearing a black singlet, black shoes, and shorts.
LONGWARRY
Container theft
■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash which occurred in Longwarry. Investigators have been told a Harley trike was headed east along Mackey St about 9.45pm when the male rider lost control of the trike and crashed.
Across Victoria AGGRAVATED CARJACKING AT WARRAGUL - CHARGES
■ Baw Baw Crime Investigation Unit and Fugitive Taskforce detectives have charged a man after an alleged aggravated carjacking in Warragul,
Investigators have been told a 27-year-old Drouin man was in a vehicle on Trumpy Lane when he was approached by two men, one armed with a machete, about 10.10pm on Tuesday, September 24.
It is alleged the victim was slashed in the face before the offenders fled the scene in the victim’s 2014 Holden Commodore.
The pair had also allegedly confronted a 19-year-old Warragul woman in her vehicle; she was uninjured, but her car was damaged in the incident.
The Holden was later located in Narracan Drive, Moe.
Officers attempted to intercept the car, which allegedly drove onto the wrong side of the road and rammed into a police vehicle before fleeing.
The two police officers inside the vehicle were uninjured.
The Holden was later found brunt out in Graduation Place, Churchill.
Investigators subsequently attended a camping area in Rosebud where an 18-year-old Chelsea man was arrested. He was remanded to face Frankston Magistrates’ Court.
Statewide
ST ALBANS
Mono-ing m’cyclist
■ Most motorcycle thieves do their best to avoid police, but this show-off learnt the hard way in St Albans.
Brimbank Highway Patrol members were out on patrol when they witnessed a trailbike rider perform a mono in front of them at the McIntyre Rd entry to the Western Ring Road shortly before 11.30pm.
They then watched as the rider allegedly reached speeds of 130-kmh on the Western Ring Road.
Officers attempted to intercept the rider on Pascoe Vale Rd however he failed to stop.
The 20-year-old found himself in difficulty when he attempted to cross railway tracks near Coleraine St and became stuck.
He dumped the bike and attempted to flee on foot but was quickly arrested by members.
A check of the motorbike registration soon revealed it was reported as stolen.
The Pakenham man will be interviewed in relation to traffic and vehicle theft offences.
APOLLO BAY
Fatal collision
■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash in Apollo Bay last Tuesday afternoon (Nov. 26).
Emergency services were called to reports a car had crashed into a tree on the Great Ocean Road about 4.40pm.
The driver was located deceased at the scene.
Exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be determined and investigations are ongoing.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Frankston Police Station and Magistrates’ Court
GARRETT EXITS MSO REVIEW Observer Melbourne
Process follows legal case against Orchestra
■ The MSO will conduct a “forward-focused, cultural change process” designed to understand perceptions of culture and, through a collaborative process, make the necessary improvements to policies, risk frameworks and processes to support a modern creative cultural organisation.
This work will begin following the resolution of legal proceedings commenced by Jayson Gillham against the MSO and others.
“The cultural change process will be guided by Creative Australia’s ‘Cultural Engagement Framework’.
“The review will support the MSO to develop a best practice organisational culture and systems,” a statement said.
WEDNESDAY,
■ Ex-politician Peter Garrett has become “unavailable’ to lead a governance review of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.
“The MSO intended that musician and former Federal Arts Minister Peter Garrett would lead the review,” said a MSO statement.
“Unfortunately, due to the delays in progressing the review arising from legal action commenced against the MSO, Mr Garrett is no longer available to lead the review because of preexisting commitments.
“The review will consider the MSO’s policies, risk frameworks and processes in relation to the MSO’s principle that the MSO’s stage is subject to the direction of the MSO
“The review will be informed by Creative Australia’s ‘Essential governance practices for arts organisations’ (January 2021).
“This governance review is expected to include recommendations to enhance organisational governance and risk management.”
The MSO Board has appointed Richard Wigley as CEO, effective immediately.
● ● Peter Garrett: no longer available to lead MSO review
“The MSO Board has also commenced a process of orderly Board renewal, with MSO Chair David Li, Co-Deputy Chair Margaret Jackson, Co-Deputy Chair Diane Jameson and Director Andrew Dudgeon retiring progressively by the end of the first quarter of 2025.
“Director Edgar Myer has assumed the role of MSO Chair-elect, with immediate effect. Directors Martin Foley and Farrel Meltzer have been appointed as Co-Deputy Chairs.” These moves follow the MSO’s decision in August to commission an independent governance review.
David Li said “For more than a decade I have been honoured to work closely with the Board, management team and our extraordinary musicians to solidify the MSO’s reputation as a world-class orchestra.
“Among the initiatives closest to my heart is the creation and endorsement of the East Meets West concert series, a pioneering program that has fostered cultural exchange and brought communities together,” Mr Li said in a written statement.
Arts Centre
■ During the summer months, audiences are invited to visit Arts Centre Melbourne's venues for performances spanning theatre, music, magic and workshops.
In December, enjoy Christmas carols, joyful music and ballet, whilst January brings the magic of Penn and Teller, shared experiences with family shows and school holiday workshops.
High profile international and local artists continue to take to the Sidney Myer Music Bowl stage, and the Midsumma Festival returns to Arts Centre Melbourne's Theatres Building with three shows across January and February.
This year’s summer programming suits all ages, including the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra's Home Alone in Concert from December 5-7 at Hamer Hall
Christmas Melodies, celebrating the magic of Christmas in traditional Morning Melodies style with a concert of favourite Christmas carols and songs on December 9 at Hamer Hall.
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra will also present Classic Kids: A Symphonic Christmas, featuring traditional carols, modern holiday favourites and classical Christmas selections on December 14 at Hamer Hall.
BIG Live presents The Nutcracker, with all new and spectacular sets, props and costumes, from December 18-20 at Hamer Hall. Spiritworks, Senbla and Tim Woods present Love Actually in Concert from December 21 - 22 at Hamer Hall. This show returns with the Australian Stage Orchestra and conductor Rob John performing live at Hamer Hall.
AAMI presents Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight from December 23-24 at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl.
In the new year, Arts Centre Melbourne presents Imagine Live, a celebration of creativity, friendship and our precious natural world, from January 8-11 at the Fairfax Studio.
ACM also presents Enter Stage Left, reviving the classic tradition of kids putting on plays for their parents, but this time, parents join in on the fun. Write, design, rehearse and perform a play all in a day at Arts Centre Melbourne. January 9-21 at The Channel. artscentremelbourne.com.au
- Cheryl Threadgold
Circus of Illusion
■ Illusionist and Australia’s Got Talent finalist Michael Boyd is returning to The Palms at Crown for three shows only on Friday, January 3 and Saturday, January 4.
Sawdust and sequins join illusions and magic to create Circus of Illusion, a show that features death defying escapes, mindblowing illusions, mime and magic, as well as world-class artists who will aim to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
The ringmaster will take patrons on a journey where he blends world-class circus artists with magic.
Showgirls will levitate, disappear and fly high in the air as the talented troupe of performers from across the globe present their acts.
Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist, Sascha Williams, will also present his high risk rola bola act that has taken him all over the world.
Performance Season: January 3 at 7.30pm; January 4 at 2pm and 7.30pm
■ Crime writers and fans gathered at South Melbourne’s Rising Sun Hotel to paint the town red to celebrate the 31st anniversary of Sisters in Crime’s Scarlet Stiletto Awards for best short stories.
Scarlet was the prescribed dress code and, while the authors and their pals might be dedicated to crime and intricacies of law-breaking, they nearly all obeyed.
Some even went to the effort of wearing scarlet stilettos or, in one case, long red satin gloves.
This year, 195 short stories competed for a record $13,400 in prize money.
Over the lifetime of the awards, 4777 stories have been entered with 34 Scarlet Stiletto trophy and category winners going on to have books published.
These include Cate Kennedy, Tara Moss, Angela Savage, Aoife Clifford, Ellie Marney, Josephine Pennicott and Anna Snoekstra
Lilly Pilly, Don’t Be Silly by Newcastle author Nikki Lee Taylor won the Swinburne University of Technology First Prize ($2000) and the coveted trophy, a scarlet stiletto shoe with a steel stiletto heel plunging into a mount.
“This is such an incredible honour. When I entered, my goal was just to be short-listed,” Taylor said. “To actually win the Sisters in Crime Scarlet Stiletto Award is something I could never have imagined.”
Taylor’s story is a chilling tale narrated by a teenage protagonist, exploring themes of abuse and bullying.
Known for her deeply empathetic and character-driven narratives, Taylor’s work often highlights the strength and resilience of women and girls who have faced profound trauma.
“I wanted to write something that felt unexpected but was still relatable and authentic,” she said.
“The expectation of a crime story is usually that a murder or incident occurs to a third party, but it’s important to also consider the impact of crimes we commit against ourselves, especially as women, and often without even realising it.”
Taylor is a former journalist, whose work around PTSD was recognised by the Journalism Media and Storytelling Awards panel.
She is currently on a hiatus from work to pursue her goal of becoming a full-time author. When Taylor is not writing, she is an avid photographer and competes in various disciplines of canine sports with her cocker spaniel Saxon
Multi-award-winning author, Candice Fox, presented the awards after discussing her life in crime with host, multi-award-winning author, Sarah Bailey.
Fox’s novel, Crimson Lake, is the basis for the TV drama, Troppo, whose third series will screen on the ABC next year.
The Dark Lake, the first novel in Bailey’s Gemma Woodstock series, is currently in development with Brouhaha Entertainment and Stan, with Phoebe Tonkin to play Gemma.
Fittingly, Fox wore a T-shirt decorated with blood splatters and the words ‘problem solved’, a gift from her husband.
Emerita Professor Christina Lee, a doubleshoe winner, co-ordinated the final judging session and said in her introduction to the collection of winning stories that the judges noticed a strong emphasis on domestic violence and abuse.
“Every 10 days in Australia, a woman dies, and countless other lives are shattered, as a direct result of domestic violence.
“Writing fictional stories about this does not trivialise it: it highlights the strength and ingenuity with which women and children can, and do, take control of their circumstances.
“From this perspective, it is heartening to see the many ways this year’s authors have approached the topic,” she said.
“Of course, authors wrote about plenty of other topics as well. There were police procedurals and PI capers and space adventures and ordinary women leading their lives in complex circumstances.
“We were reminded that crimes can happen everywhere and involve everyone. This year’s new category, the Forensic Clue (complete with
photograph of a scarlet stiletto, an empty wine bottle, and a doorway with a Chinese restaurant menu) attracted a huge variety of intriguing entries.
“Regular categories, including Art and Crime, Cross-Genre, and the ever-popular Body in the Library, again attracted very strong fields and enormous variety.”
- Cheryl Threadgold
Beethoven’s Symphonies
■ There is so much taking place in Beethoven’s symphonies that it is difficult to encapsulate in a brief review the inventiveness and intellect at play.
Jaime Martin in conducting the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra in the Beethoven Festival brings to the fore the changing rhythmic dynamic, the versatility and the wit of the composer.
Lyricism is counterpointed with accented beats in Symphony 8 almost as if there are two worlds at play; the pastoral and the marshall.
Some say that this was Beethoven mimicking the newly invented metronome. What it speaks to is musical genius where two contradictory worlds seem to be in perfect sync.
The seventh symphony is a more intense piece. It was first played to raise funds for wounded soldiers who staved off Napoleon
That said, you can feel the rising anticipation and intensity of the work.
Beethoven’s compositional inventiveness delays the climax at times with a change of rhythm or modulation until you are overwhelmed.
The audience members were on their feet by the end of this performance.
Whilst the festival has not necessarily played the symphonies in sequential order, what has been revealed is Beethoven’s musical evolution.
The classic era of Mozart and Haydn gives way to the Romantic with all its passion and intensity of emotion. Beethoven illustrates how this can be encapsulated in music using the orchestra as a grand tool of expression.
What is also evident is the combined effort of the MSO musicians and their passion for the composer working with the unity required to realize Beethoven’s vision.
mso.com.au
- Review by David McLean
■
The Leaper Foundation, spearheaded by
and Dr
has pledged a transformative gift of $5 million to Arts Centre Melbourne’s major redevelopment of the Theatres Building (under the iconic Spire).
“We are honoured to receive such a generous gift from the Leaper family – one of the most significant philanthropic gifts Arts Centre Melbourne has ever received,” said Karen Quinlan , CEO, Arts Centre Melbourne.
“Our donors play a pivotal role in the impact and legacy of our work and share our commitment to enriching the lives of our creative industries and the Victorian community,”
The Leaper Foundation gift contributes to Reimagining Arts Centre Melbourne, which will deliver significant improvements to the Theatres Building, including an expanded Loading Dock, and a new flexible rehearsal space and studio.
Reimagining Arts Centre Melbourne will also improve accessibility, by introducing new accessible seating in the State Theatre – including wheelchair positions in the Stalls for the first time – two new Disability Discrimination Act compliant lifts and a new accessible Stage Door.
In recognition of their support, The Pavilion – the flagship function space in the Theatres Building under Arts Centre Melbourne’s Spire – will be renamed The Leaper Family Pavilion from January 1.
“This beautiful building was developed many years ago, but it’s now time for reinvigoration,” said Mrs Leaper and Dr Leaper.
“If we can contribute to the future, then we’re paying some of the debt to the pioneers who created this space for us.
“This is our family commitment: to developing the arts through imagination, inspiration and innovation.
“It's this notion that underpins our support for Arts Centre Melbourne, bringing people from all cultural and economic backgrounds to one gathering place under the Spire.”
The Leaper family has a long history of supporting Arts Centre Melbourne – particularly its Children and Families program, which provides arts experiences to children and their families, including children living with a disability.
The Pavilion space has historically been used for more intimate and accessible Families performances, and the program has grown in scale since the Leapers became major supporters.
“Arts Centre Melbourne is committed to increase activation and participation for children, young people and their families.
“In 2024 alone, 18,000 visitors have participated in programming supported by the Leaper’s major giving – we’re so pleased to be able to create such life-changing experiences for our audiences,” said Ms Quinlan
- Cheryl Threadgold
● ● ● ●
Award recipient Nikki Lee Taylor. mysterious
●
● Jenny Leaper and Dr John Leaper
Photo: Jason Lau
Jenny Leaper
John Leaper,
● ● Circus of Illusion
Local Theatre Observations
Shows
■ The 1812 Theatre: Noises Off (by Michael Frayn) Until December 7 at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Justin Stephens. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au or 97583964.
■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: Hotel Sorrento (by Hannie Rayson) Until December 7 at the Mechanics’ Institute Hall, Warrandyte. Director: Grant Purdy. Bookings: trybooking.com/CPXME
■ The Basin Theatre Group: A Christmas Carol: Radio Play (adapted from the novel by Charles Dickens) Until December 8 at The Basin Theatre, Dongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Di Hoskins. Bookings: thebasintheatre.org.au
■ OSMaD: The Addams Family. December 5 – 14 at the Geoffrey McComas Theatre, Scotch College Campus.Director: Joel Anderson: Musical Director: Ashton Turner; Choreograrpher: Dylan Henry. Bookings: osmad.com.au
■ Gemco Players: Youth Shows! (end of year performances) December 7 at 2pm (Juniors) 6pm (Seniors). December 8 at 2pm (Juniors) at the Gem Community Theatre, Kilvington Drive, Emerald. Further information: gemcoplayers.org
■ Heidelberg Theatre Company Youth: Peter Pan (a new adaptation from J. M. Barrie’s classic) December 6 – 14 at Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Robbie Nicholson. Bookings: htc.org.au
■ PLOS Musical Productions: School of Rock. December 31, January 2, 3, 4, 5 at the Frankston Arts Centre, Davey St., Frankston. Director: Brad Fischer; Musical Director: Bev Woodford; Choreographer: Jess Pratt and Tahlia Sweetman. Bookings: plos.asn.au
■ Encore Theatre: Puss In Boots (written by Geoff Bamber) January 9 – 18 at 11am and 2pm at the Clayton Community Theatre, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: Christine Simmonds. Bookings: Trybooking. - Cheryl Threadgold
Auditions
■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Haunted (by Eric Chappell) December 2 and 3 at 7.30pm at the Lilydale Mechanics’ Institute, 39-41 Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Nicholas Ryan. Audition enquiries: 0416004409 or nicholasr379@gmail.com
■ The Mount Players: The Girl on the Train (by Rachel Wagstaff and Duncan Abel) December 7 and 8 at 10.00am at the Mountview Theatre, 56 Smith St., Macedon. Director: Frank Harvey. Audition bookings and enquiries: fjharvey@bigpond.com or call 0447 199 665
■ The Mount Players: The Girl on the Train (by Rachel Wagstaff and Duncan Abel) December 7 and 8 at 10.00am at the Mountview Theatre, 56 Smith St., Macedon. Director: Frank Harvey. Audition enquiries and bookings: fjharvey@bigpond.com or call 0447 199 665
■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (by Mark Haddon, adapted by Simon Stephens) January 5 from 6pm, January 6 from 7pm at Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Karen Wakeham. Further information: htc.org.au
■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Things I Know to be True (by Andrew Bovell) January 31 at 7.30pm, February 1 at 2.30pm at Williamstown Little Theatre, 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Shirley Sydenham. Audition bookings and enquiries: ssydenham@wlt.org.au
■ Malvern Theatre Company: A Happy and Holy Occasion (by John O’Donoghue) February 2 and 3, 2025 at 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East. Director: Nicholas Opalski. Audition bookings/enquiries: nopolski@hotmail.com or 0400 507 788.
- Cheryl Threadgold
NatBass is Shirley
■ Natalie Bassingthwaighte returns will star in one of the world’s most popular plays, Shirley Valentine, directed by Lee Lewis. The comedy will be staged at Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre from January 30 for a strictly limited season. Tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster.
AN IDEAL HUSBAND
■ Heidelberg Theatre Company’s production of An Ideal Husband instantly transports audiences into the world of 1890s upper-class London, thanks to Brenton Staples’s splendid set design (with revolving set) based on an original concept by John Shelbourn.
Oscar Wilde’s four-act comedy of manners tells of politician Sir Robert Chiltern, the 'ideal' husband possessing wealth, influence and a lovely wife. All is at risk when Mrs Cheveley visits, threatening to reveal serious wrongdoings in Sir Robert’s past.
Contrasting with this negativity of political corruption and blackmail, Wilde’s wittily crafted play entwines smatterings of satire, farce, colorful characters, and romance.
Director Tim Scott skilfully balances stylish elegance with precision timing for doors opening and closing in farcical moments.
The cast’s appearance/exit at the show’s beginning is beautifully curated.
A pre-show announcement advised that Morgan Thomas-Connor had stepped in at short notice as antagonist Mrs Cheveley (usually Elise Moorhouse) and would read with script in hand.
Congratulations to Morgan, whose confident, expressive performance was first-class.
James Antonas (Lord Arthur Goring) brings spirited energy to the stage, and shared clever teamwork with Morgan in manoeuvring the script.
It was a pleasure to hear Wilde’s dialogue clearly articulated by the talented cast, especially by Katie Macfie (Lady Markby).
Wayne Gleeson is perfectly cast as Sir Robert Chiltern, and Llaaneath Poor is charmingly gracious as his wife, Lady Gertrude Chiltern.
Tim Murphy presents a strong performance as The Earl of Caversham, Arthur’s father, and Sharon Casey is delightful as Miss Mabel Chiltern.
Enjoyable performances are also presented by Mandy Murray (Lady Olivia Basildon) and Frankie Photiadis (Mrs Marchmont).
The two Butlers are terrific with their quirky body mannerisms - Miles Glaspole (Mason) and Laurie Jezard (Phipps).
The costumes are visually stunning – bravo to Wendy Drowley, Maureen McInerney, Sally Scott and Gayle Poor.
The atmospheric lighting is designed by John Rowe and sound design by John Rowe. Congratulations, Heidelberg Theatre Company.
htc.org.au
- Review by Cheryl Threadgold
The Seed of the
Sacred Fig
■ In 2022, Iranian student Mahsa Amini was arrested and beaten to death for improperly wearing her hijab.
Set against the spontaneous protests that erupted following her death, Mohammad Rasoulof’s The Seed of the Sacred Fig begins as a tense family drama in which an emerging generation gap threatens the family dynamic. Where prosecutor Iman (Misagh Zare) sees enemies of the state, his teenage daughters, Rezvan (Mahsa Rostami) and Sana (Setareh Maleki) see “normal people who want a normal life and freedom.”
The family conflict acts as a metaphor mirroring the intensifying real-life drama in the real world.
At first, Najmeh (Soheila Golestani) sides with her husband, maintaining Iman’s patriarchal authority at home and scolding her daughters.
The clash of generations is evident in the treatment of Rezvan’s university friend, Sadaf (Niousha Akhshi).
Caught up in the turmoil and brutally wounded, Najmeh tenderly treats Sadaf’s wounds but will not let her stay with the family.
Sadaf is arrested, setting in motion events culminating in a frightening interrogation of the women.
In his new job as an investigator, Iman is expected to rubber-stamp death penalty orders for student activists hauled before the Revolutionary Court. Iman is given a gun by his colleague Ghaderi (Reza Akhlagh).
His new position means he now has a target on his back.
The conscience-stricken Iman becomes more dictatorial and paranoid as his authoritarian hold on the family is increasingly threatened not only by Sana and Rezvan but eventually by Najmeh, mirroring the revolution as women fight against the regime’s misogyny.
If you know your Chekhov, the gun foreshadowed in the first act is bound to go off with a bang in the third.
The stakes, already high, elevate astronomically in the third act as Iman’s paranoia takes hold.
- Review by Kathryn Keeble
Opera For All
■ The third edition of the BMW Opera for All concert returns to Melbourne’s Fed Square on Saturday, February 1 from 5pm to 7pm.
The free event will introduce a new edition –a 30-minute prelude performance by the Australian Girls Choir, highlighting BMW supporting arts and culture at a grassroots level. This performance will connect young, aspiring artists with award-winning operatic talent, embodying the spirit of creative collaboration.
● ● Lauren Jackson ■ For Australians, sport is in their DNA. But book sales show that readers are pretty keen for a spot of romance too, so author Lauren Jackson has combined her love of rugby and her penchant for writing romance to come up with her latest novel, Break the Rules
Sports romance is a hugely popular romance subgenre set around the world of professional sports, so Lauren has embraced this in her very Australian novel.
In this college sports romance, Anya’s carefully planned life has spun out of control overnight.
Lost, confused and desperate, she seeks refuge at her brother’s house, determined to take control of her life.
Little does she know that the boy she’s always loved – but now despises – has also moved in.
Mason has never settled down – partying, disappearing for days at a time, booking flights and leaving the country without telling anyone has been his life.
After it all gets too much, he decides to stay with his best friend and focus his energy on football.
The last thing he needs is his best friend’s sister distracting him, especially since he’s sworn he would never lay a hand on her.
The scene is set for Anya and Mason dealing with past baggage and seeing where the mutual chemistry they feel will take them.
Break the Rules would be an ideal Christmas stocking filler and is published by Penguin Random House and is available at bookstores and online – www.penguin.com.au - Julie Houghton
MIDSUMMA FESTIVAL LAUNCHES 2025 PROGRAM
■ Speaking at the launch of the Midsumma 2025 program, Louise Scott, director of Experience for the City of Melbourne, said: “It’s been seven years since we voted yes to love, and the City of Melbourne recorded the highest yes vote in the country.”
This year's festival features a dazzling array of performances and activities for all ages, celebrating the festival’s commitment to diversity.
The theme for Midsumma Festival 2025 is “Collective Identity(s)” and promises to “provide a platform for diverse voices to come together,” said Midsumma Board chair, Judy Small
Midsumma 2025 opens spectacularly with its free carnival on the banks of the Yarra River
With two stages, food hubs, pop-up bars and a dog show, there is sure to be something for everyone.
For those feeling inspired, there will also be a Lip Sync Limelight competition.
The Midsumma Presents program will showcase boundary-pushing queer arts and culture, featuring highlights such as Feeling Afraid As If Something Terrible Is Going To Happen starring Tony and Olivier-nominated actor Samuel Bennett, Jo Clifford and Bayley Turner’s Thirty-Six, and Coded, a First Nations femme queer dance work presented by Amelia Jean O’Leary. Throughout Midsumma, the Melbourne Queer Film Festival will screen new and exciting queer cinema at venues including Fed Square, Cinema Nova, Carlton, and Bunjil Place, Narre Warren
The Immigration Museum is hosting Night at the Museum , an epic pride party for LGBTQIA+ youth aged 12 to 19.
ArtPlay will host an immersive, sensory experience, An Uncertain Time, for babies and their carers.
Regional Victoria will also be included, with various events and performances scheduled statewide.
Midsumma 2025 wraps up with the glitter and glamour of Pride March, celebrating 30 years in Melbourne. Further details:midsumma.org.au/
- Kathryn Keeble
● ● Wayne Gleeson (Sir Robert Chiltern) with Llaaneath Poor (Lady Chiltern) in An Ideal Husband.
Photo: David Belton
★Timeless hits of R.E.M. will tour Australia with Stipe presenting their tribute. Publicist Julie Cavanagh says iconic songs such as ‘Losing My Religion’ and ‘Everybody Hurts’ are recreated note-for-note. Frankston on April 24, and The Palms At Crown on April 25.
★SEN CEO Craig Hutchison will return to the Seven Network in 2025 to host The Agenda Setters, a program covering AFL news. The new show will air on Monday and Tuesday nights throughout the season. He will host the Monday edition, where he will be joined by panellists Kane Cornes and Nick Riewoldt
★Brigitte Duclos is joining ABC Melbourne Radio as the new Afternoons host.
★ Dougal Beatty will join NAB's Corporate Affairs team as Associate Director, specialising in digital content creation. He has presented Nine's Afternoon News in Melbourne since 2017. Dougal will begin his new role in early January.
★Jacinta Parsons and Brian Nankervis will helm ABC Radio Melbourne Saturday mornings, replacing Alice Zaslavsky.
★Sam McClure will start as a Senior Sports Affairs Reporter at The Age in January, working across the AFL and major sporting events. He joined the outlet in 2016, and was most recently a fulltime Journalist until 2022.
★ Current ABC Radio Melbourne Afternoons presenter Trevor Chappell will return to hosting Overnights.
★Tammy Mills is now the Executive Producer of podcasts for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald Tammy was The Age’s Legal Affairs Reporter.
★Look - Contemporary Australian Portraiture is on show at the Glen Eira Gallery until January 12.
★1116 SEN has announced their Breakfast and Mornings lineup for next year. Tim Watson will be Co-Host alongside Garry Lyon on Breakfast, from Tuesday to Thursday. David King will expand his role on Breakfast, joining Kane Cornes on Mondays and Fridays. Nathan Buckley will join Gerard Whateley on Mornings every Monday, as well as being a regular part of the Wednesday show.
★The National Disability Insurance Agency advised the Australian, New Zealand and Asian Creative Arts Therapies Association that arts therapy will not be continued as a Therapy Support after this week (Dec. 2).
★Patricia Karvelas will be come the host of Planet America, BTN, and Afternoon Briefing on ABC Television.
★Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery has an exhibition, The Ecologies Project: How Climate Changes Culture
Cicero
Marc Circero
★Victorian Opera will stages a production of Stephen Sondheim and James Goldman’s Tony-Award-winning musical, Follies, at the Palais Theatre, St Kilda from February 1-6. Amongst its cast are Marina Prior, Antoinette Halloran, Adam Murphy, Alexander Lewis, Colette Mann, Geraldene Morrow, Evelyn Krape, Merlyn Quaife, Rhonda Burchmore and Geraldine Turner.
★The new production of Agatha Christie’s best-selling crime novel of all time, And Then There Were None, includes Peter O’Brien as William Blore, Eden Falk as Dr Armstrong, Mia Morrissey as Vera Claythorne and Tom Stokes as Philip Lombard. The production opens at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre in February.
★PIAF! The Show will be at The Palms At Crown on May 16-17. The show stars Nathalie Lermitte
★Melbourne's La Mama The atre has announced its 'Our Next Act' donations campaign to ensure a stable future.
★Kee'Ahn will perform live at the Art Gallery of Ballarat on December 14 in conjunction with the new retrospective, JXSH MVIR: Forever I Live.
★Director of News for 9 News Melbourne, Hugh Nailon , will take on additional responsibilities including overseeing and supporting other state news directors and the network desk.
★Rebecca Maddern will take on an expanded role as Chief Sports Presenter for 7NEWS Melbourne and will replace the current Sports Presenter, Tim Watson. She will also join the 7SPORT team.
★‘Rain Dogs’ is an homage to Tom Waits from 1977-1987. It will be performed from February 7-9 at Memo Music Hall in St Kilda, the Theatre Royal Castlemaine and the Brunswick Ballroom
★Sister Act performed free to gether with the Choir of Hard Knocks last Sunday (Dec. 1) on the steps of the Regent Theatre
MUMA’s 50th Anniversary
■ Mnash University Museum of Art | MUMA, Australia’s leading contemporary university art museum,has launched its 2025 program, marking 50 years of presenting groundbreaking art, ideas and curatorial innovation within a university context.
This landmark season features four major exhibitions featuring works by emerging and internationally acclaimed Asia-Pacific artists, including Jenna Lee, Ashley Perry, Nusra Latif Qureshi, Stolon Press, Victoria Todorov and Dhopiya Yunupinyu.
Through themes of identity, history, place and memory, the program engages audiences across public events and educational outreach, inviting critical conversations on topics from AI and self-representation to language politics and pre-colonial maritime histories.
Marking MUMA's 50th anniversary year, the 2025 program begins with Image Economies, launching on Saturday February 8 at MUMA, with a free community party from 3 to 5 pm.
The festivities include a workshop with exhibiting artist Sione Tuívailala Monu, a live performance by exhibiting artist Scotty So, music by DJ Lucreccia Quintanilla, drinks by T.I.N.A., food by Flavours of Syria, and a specially commissioned 50h birthday cake by a guest artist.
Dr Rebecca Coates, MUMA Director says: “As we celebrate our 50th year, MUMA’s timely 2025 artistic program reflects our commitment to cultural exploration and artistic inquiry in a unique educational context.
“Each exhibition, event and encounter invites our audiences to reexamine connections between people and narratives that speak to our time and place - both in the past and looking to the future.
“This milestone year reaffirms our role as a vital space for bringing people together to exchange ideas about contemporary art informed by a deeply researched, university context.”
Exhibition 1: Image Economies February 8– April 12
Opening MUMA’s milestone year is Image Economies, an exhibition exploring the profound impact of digital technologies on image-making, selfrepresentation and media consumption.
★
Exhibition 2: Stolon Press: Flat Earth. May 8– July 5
Curators: Stolon Press, with Dr Rebecca Coates and Stephanie Berlangieri
★
Exhibition 3: Nusra Latif Qureshi July 22– September 20
In collaboration with the Art Gallery of New South Wales
★
Exhibition 4: Awakening Histories October 4– December 6
Featuring significant artworks from Australian collections and new commissions by Australian, First Nations and Indonesian artistsPeoples.
- Contributed
Longlegs
■ (MA). 101 minutes. Now available on Blu-ray and DVD.
Osgood Perkins (son of Anthony, of Psycho fame) finally returns after a four year break with his fourth film as director, and like his previous efforts, is an imaginatively crafted mood piece.
After a wintery opening sequence where a young girl, alone at home, is visited by a mysterious stranger (Nicolas Cage), we cut to years later (the 90s), where FBI agent Carter (Blair Underwood) brings in gifted operative Lee Harker (Maika Monroe) , who seems to have an uncanny ability of sensing where a offender may be.
This is shown when Harker is able pinpoint a murderer in a cookiecutter neighbourhood, but is unfortunately unable to prevent a father from slaughtering his family.
This latest event ties in with other cases, where the father has killed his wife and children, then themselves.
Harker feels there is more to these murders than meets the eye, and believes that, no matter how unlikely it seems, someone else is behind the killings.
Left at each crime scene is what appears to be indecipherable messages, signed Longlegs, but Harker successfully decodes them, proving there is a greater power influencing the violent acts.
Emotionally disconnected, and dealing with a troubled relationship with her mother Ruth (Alicia Witt), Harker slowly enters a world of darkness from which she may not return.
Longlegs is deliberately oppressive in its atmosphere, with Perkins wanting to use a slow pace and eerie mood to get under the audience’s skin, and with terrific help from cinematographer Andres Arochi, making his feature film debut), and expert editing, effective music score, strong production and sound design, succeeds.
I do wish that Perkins kept certain plot elements hidden or unknown, instead of explaining a little too much towards the end.
A gallery of impressive performances also elevate the material (which admittedly, is reminiscent of The Silence Of The Lambs, and due to Perkins’ precise direction, Manhunter), with Monroe (It Follows, The Guest), Underwood (Murder In Mississippi, Deep Impact), Witt (Fun, Dune) and Kiernan Shipka (The Chilling Adventures Of Sabrina, Totally Killer) all delivering the goods.
Of course, special mention has to go to Cage, who as the title character, gives a totally unhinged performance, and it is one that may divide viewers.
I found it appropriate and unsettling, but others may find his turn jars with the overall tone of the film. Longlegs is a horror/thriller that will test the patience of those who want something more visceral and fastpaced, but this is a creepy nightmare made by a very talented filmmaker, and should deservedly find a strong following.
If you do like Longlegs, please check out Perkins’ other films; The Blackcoat’s Daughter (2015) (known here as February), I Am The Pretty Thing That Lives In The Hous e (2016) and Gretel & Hansel (2020), all of which shows he has a very distinctive style.
RATING - ****
The Taste of Things
■ (PG). 135 minutes. Now available on Prime Video and Apple TV.
Exquisitely made, quietly moving drama from acclaimed filmmaker Tran Anh Hung (The Scent Of Green Papaya, Cyclo, Vertical Ray Of The Sun, Norwegian Wood), this is one of the director’s best films to date.
Set in the late 1800s, the film begins with a stunning, mouth-watering opening sequence which lasts for 38 minutes, where we are introduced to Eugenie (Juliette Binoche), the house cook, her regular assistant, Violette (Galatea Bellugi), the assistant’s young niece Pauline (Bonnie ChagneauRavoire) , and the manor owner, Dodin (Benoit Magimel), a renowned chef who is actively part of the cooking crew.
Through this extended but utterly absorbing sequence, we see that Dodin and Eugenie are more than just employer and employee, and have developed a deep, caring relationship that has lasted for twenty years.
Dodin has asked Eugenie to marry him multiple times, but she has always turned him down, as she fears how marriage may change her life, and what it might do to their relationship.
Dodin expresses his love for her through the one thing they both passionately know so well; food. Tran again meticulously crafts his story, placing character interactions ahead of plot, and his use of symbolism is also beautifully handled.
The film is exquisite to look at, thanks to cinematographer Jonathan Ricquebourg, but the entire production is first-rate.
With so many loud, effects-filled blockbusters thrown at audiences now, it is so refreshing when something like The Taste Of Things comes along, one that dares to be quietly intelligent, and will offer viewers ample rewards.
RATING - ****1/2
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•Property inspections are by appointment only
■ He was tall, good looking and one of the famous American actors of the 20th Century.
I was a big fan of Robert Stack. His biggest success came in 1959 when he was cast as Elliot Ness in the television series The Untouchables
Charles Langford Modini Stack was born in 1919 in Los Angeles, California
His father changed his son's name to Robert for no apparent reason. His parents divorced in 1920 and his mother took him to live overseas whilst his older brother stayed with his father in the US.
Robert spent his early years in Europe and was fluent at several languages. He only began to learn English when his mother brought him back to the US in 1925.
His parents re-married but sadly his father passed away when Robert was nine.
Robert studied acting at university. He took up skeet shooting (which is shooting clay discs flung into the air at various angles) and his fiveman team broke the ‘standing record’in 1935.
He was cast in the film First Love in 1939 when he played the romantic lead opposite Deanna Durbin and gave the young actress her first screen kiss.
His film roles during the 1940s included The Mortal Storm, Eagle Squadron, A Date With Judy and Miss Tatlock's Millions
During the war years Robert served as gunnery instructor in the United States Navy In 1952 Robert played the lead character in
Whatever Happened To ... Robert Stack
By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM
the first American colour 3-D feature film Bwana Devil, which was a box office smash.
In 1954 he starred opposite John Wayne as the stressed pilot in The High And The Mighty and in 1956 was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance in Written On The Wind.
Robert was a bachelor but all that changed when he fell in love with the actress Rosemarie Bowe and the couple married in 1956.
In 1959 The Desilu Studios began work on a television series titled The Untouchables which was based on the memoirs of prohibition agent Elliot Ness.
Van Johnson was originally cast as Elliot Ness but when his agent demanded twice the
salary Desi Arnez refused and cast Robert Stack as the lead character.
This was the highlight of Robert's career. The series ran for four years and was a ratings winner.
In 1960 Robert won an Emmy Award for Best Actor in a Dramatic Series for his portrayal of Ness . In 1978 Robert Stack came to Melbourne to host a publicity promotion for the Sandown Greyhound Racing Club. In 1991 he reprised the character in a television movie titled The Return Of Elliot Ness Robert demonstrated his comedy skills in films such as Flying High, 1941 and Caddyshack II. He starred in television shows such as The Name Of The Game, Falcon Crest, Strike Force, Most Wanted and Unsolved Mysteries
In 1980 he published his autobiography Straight Shooting
Robert Stack was married to Rosemarie for 47 years and they had two children.
He underwent radiation therapy for prostate cancer in 2002 and passed away as a result of a heart attack the following year at the age of 84.
He was highly regarded in the film industry. Kevin can be heard on 3AWThe Time Tunnel - Remember WhenSundays at 10.10pm with Philip Brady and Simon Owens. And on 96.5 FM
That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon. www.innerfm.org.au
SNAKES AND MIRRORS AT WHEELERS HILL
Snakes and Mirrors –
Petrina Hicks
Petrina Hicks works with photography to create large-scale images that draw on mythology, fables and historical art imagery to reframe the contemporary female experience.
In Snakes and Mirrors the artist contemplates the self-awareness of animal life and our desire to understand the phenomenology of animal life from a human perspective.
Exhibition closes February 18.
★
Mangata – Amos Gebhardt
Drawing on the Moon as a symbol of illumination, Amos Gebhardt’s Mangata weaves sound and moving image with photographic portraits lit entirely by moonlight.
Mangata is a Swedish term describing a pathway towards the horizon created by the Moon’s reflection on water – a metaphorical road into the unknown.
Interlinked with luna studies, the series features visionaries in their fields who imagine liberated and collective futures in these dystopian times.
Exhibition closes February 1.
★
500 Strong – Ponch Hawkes
Since 2018 celebrated Melbourne artist Ponch Hawkes and curator Jane Scott have worked on an epic project to photograph 500 Victorian women over the age of 50.
Across a dozen photo shoots, over 500 volunteer participants modelled nude in collaboration of the diversity and reality of older women’s bodies. It became 500 Strong
Exhibition closes February 16.
MAPh (Museum of Australian Photography
860 Ferntree Gully Rd. Wheelers Hill
Art Fair
Kelli Rolfe Contemporary Art is pleased to announce their participation at Quarantine Art Fair.
Quarantine Art Fair presents 10 of Melbourne’s most respected galleries with presentations of work by some of the country’s most accomplished artists.
Surrounded by rolling lawns and stunning views of Port Phillip Bay, this
The Arts
withPeterKemp
salon show, similar to the concepts often seen in the Hamptons, will provide a boutique experience for audiences to engage and not only the art but with the whole experience of a summer outdoor event.
Exhibition opens January 8 and closes January 11.
Quarantine Art Fair
Commanding Officer’s House and Grounds
Portsea’s Point Nepean National Park.
Education
Art for All Exhibition
International Day of People with Disability is celebrated on December 3 each year.
To celebrate this event Latrobe Regional Gallery is holding the Art for All Exhibition to highlight and celebrate the diverse talents of people with disability and Creative Venues are holding the interactive workshop.
His exhibition is part of Latrobe Regional Gallery’s community art exhibitions, showcasing the work of artists in the community and beyond.
The Exhibition will showcase twodimensional artworks, such as drawings, paintings, photography, screen prints and poetry and sculptural objects like ceramics, glass or mixed media designs.
Exhibition opens December 7 and
closes March 23.
Latrobe Regional Gallery
138
Wimmera: My Story
Wimmera – My Story –
Gary Vaughan is watercolourist Gary Vaughan’s largest solo exhibition to date, and a personal series of paintings a anchored in to the Wimmera, memory and human connections to land.
Warracknabeal other townships feature across multiple paintings as well as iconic mountain ranges.
This exhibition Vaughan’s homage to the sublime nature in nature, are well as an idyllic, almost nostalgic capturing thee life on the land.
Exhibition opens December 7 and closes February 23.
Horsham Regional Art Gallery
80 Wilson St. Horsham
- Peter Kemp
Art Program grant vote
■ Nillumbik Shire Council has reached the final selection stage of a State Government public art program, and says that it needs your vote to bring the power of local womens’ storytelling and literature to life in a public artwork.
The 2024 Victorian Women’s Public Art Program is an initiative of the Office for Women, and aims to address the under-representation of women and their achievements in public artworks in Victoria.
Through the program, six new public artworks will be commissioned, inspired by the contributions, achievements and stories of Victorian women.
The selection process is now open for public engagement, and thge public is invited to show its through the State Government’s Engage Victoria website.
Talk show host turns pirate
■ Jay Leno is best remembered as former host of long running America's Tonight Show. In retirement he had one last booking to appear in Southern California. On his way to the theatre, he fell down 18 metres, broke his wrist and suffered cuts to his eye causing Jay to wear an eyepatch. You would not recognize Jay, the Hollywood pirate.
Milhouse loses his voice
■ Ten-year old Milhouse is Bart Simpson's best buddy in The Simpsons animated series. After 700 episodes over 35 years Milhouse’s voice has retired as of end of November. Actor/voice talent belongs to Pamela Hayden who will forever feel a deep love of Milhouse, the kid with the super-sized snoz of anyone in The Simpsons.
Ellen’s lifestyle flip
■ Now that her popular chat show has come to an end, Ellen De Generes has flipped her world around. Ellen and spouse Portia have sold their Californian mansion for some $ 32 million and moved to the Cotswolds, UK. As a 'Welcome', local pub owner Jeremy Clarkson, Aussie singer-songwriter Natalie Imbruglia, and other rev heads threw a party with The Coors as the lead act. Ellen has ditched her platinum blonde for her natural brown hair, rest assured her razor-sharp questions kept gusts on their best behaviour.
Laughter is best medicine
■ TV actor Will Ferrell credits his 24-year marriage to wife Viveca to their 'have a laugh' policy. “We both enjoy a good laugh,”said Will. “Even our three kids are constantly coming up with the latest gags.” Sounds like a happy household, a rare entity in today’s Hollywood climate.
It’s a wrap
■ The Tour to end all Tours is Taylor Swift and her Eras Tour that took in gigs in five continents grossing $2 billion and still counting when the final show closes in Vancouver on December 8. Next money
is the
rial history of the complete itinerary complete with 500
of what happened on tour.
maker
picto-
candid images
- John O’Keefe
OK. With John O’Keefe
● ● Robert Stack
● Jay Leno
Commercial Rd. Morwell
Across Observer
1. Shabbiness in dress
6. Light-bulb inventor
11. Shiny
15. Forts
20. Egyptian river
21. Reproductive organ
22. Shopping precinct
23. Lead dancer, ... ballerina
25. South Africa's Cape ... Hope (2,4)
26. Pakistan currency units
27. Actor, Ryan ... (1'4)
29. Likable
32. Tube
34. Without delay (1,1,1,1)
36. Look-alikes, dead ...
39. Caravan rover
41. Brief
43. Sparking stone
46. Boils or ulcers
48. Low wetland
49. London's ... Mall
51. Curving lines
52. Exploited
55. Territory, Puerto ...
56. Every
59. Composer, Andrew ... Webber
61. Antarctic inlet, ... Sea
62. False god
63. Crowd brawl
64. Corrected (wrong)
67. Dalai Lama's nationality
68. Bitter regret
70. Very keen enthusiast
71. One who owes money
72. Overeats
73. Firebomb liquid
74. Of punishment
75. Batting spell
77. Broken down
78. Resounded
79. Theatre reviewer
82. Hazardous
86. Loft
87. Peace prize city
89. Spick & span
92. Merge
94. Get up
96. Biblical son of Isaac
98. Naming word
100. Recycle
101. Mongolian desert
103. Painting, Mona ...
105. From Baghdad
106. Adolescent
108. Sports match
111. Autograph
112. Actor's outfits
114. Rat
116. A single time
119. Droplet
120. Location
121. Kind
123. Leave out
124. Madam (2'2)
125. Flowing
126. Loudness
127. Grand house
130. Born as
131. Cleaning up (room)
135. English coin
138. Not stereo
139. Large jug
141. Computer/phone link
144. A lot of
146. I am, you ...
147. Looked up & down
148. UK national broadcaster (1,1,1)
149. Mad Roman emperor
150. Fuss
151. Female zebra
152. German emperor
153. Repast
155. Drink, ... spumante
157. Golfer, Greg ...
158. Unseat
160. Release (3,2)
161. Sprite
162. Italian city
163. Honey liquor
165. Brother's daughter
166. Souped-up car, hot ...
AcrossDownDown
167. Scamp
168. Laid slates
169. Upper-class 171. Document, Magna ... 172. Glossy black bird 175. Entrails
185. Castle water ditch 186. 24 December, Christmas ... 188. ... Lang Syne
189. US anti-crime agency (1,1,1)
190. Measure (out)
191. Fifth musical note 193. Own 194. Father 196. Verge
197. Fiesta, Mardi ... 198. Medicine amounts 200. Unhappiest 205. Vicious dog
207. Second-hand vehicle (4,3)
210. Playwright
211. Reparation
212. In a frenzied state
213. Grass skirt dance
214. USA nickname, Uncle ..
216. Steals from 218. Created
219. Prepare (newspaper)
220. Tights
224. Coffee style
227. Spiky plant, ... vera 229. From Bangkok
230. Abhor
231. Gallantly
232. Dr Jekyll & Mr ...
233. Heredity unit
235. Out of order
237. Solidifies
239. Actor, Richard ...
241. Timepiece
244. Forewarning
246. Blankness
249. ... & twos
252. Depletes
254. Crave
256. Heaven's ... Gates
258. French Mrs
259. Pins for hammering
260. Romantic US falls
263. Internal
264. Lump of gold
265. Legless grub
267. Actress, ... Kidman
270. Digit
271. Funeral Mass
272. Actor, Dustin ...
273. Lewd
274. Loses (hair)
277. London nightspot
279. Make (wage)
281. Throw out
284. Only fair (2-2)
286. Crustacean with nippers
288. Small distance measures
292. Yoga master
294. Raw metals
295. Domestic servants
298. Screen legend, Sophia ...
300. From Emerald Isle
301. Sum up
303. Baby's skin problem, ... rash
306. Bashfulness
308. Japan & Korea are there
309. Oil-exporting cartel
311. Throb
314. Mushy
315. Energetic
316. Do the dishes (4,2)
317. Throng
318. Former spouses
319. Paris landmark, ... Triomphe (3,2)
320. Tennis ace, ... Sampras
1. Renovate (2,2)
2. Become distorted
3. Suggest
4. Kuwaiti rulers
5. Clean break
6. Flees to wed
7. Delay
8. Bathroom fixtures
9. Fall asleep (3,3)
10. Brigand
11. Revolve on axis
12. Stood against
13. Smudge
14. Palestinian chief, ... Arafat
15. Pour carelessly
16. Aida or Carmen
17. Potters' ovens
18. Pantomime lead
19. Observes
24. Rebukes, ... over the knuckles
28. Put on ... & graces
30. Spoken
31. Hideous
33. Irritated the skin
35. Incidental comments
37. Clarified butter
38. Curry & ...
40. Face veils
42. Physical activity
44. Portugal's capital
45. Scientist, Sir Isaac ...
47. Stench
48. Elevated railway
49. Drainage tradesman
50. Extortionate lender (4,5)
53. Largest bird
54. Calls (5,2)
57. Ancient Mariner's seabird
58. Protective headwear
60. Cloth retailers
63. Cleaver
65. Frosted (cake)
66. Expensive
68. Coral bank
69. Cosy
76. Set up (machinery)
79. Long-leafed lettuce
80. Nunavut native
81. Eastern faith
83. Twig shelters
84. Cartoon strip, Li'l ...
85. Flightless bird
88. English cheese
90. Fleur de lis plant
91. Among 93. Riveted
95. Easter gifts
97. Unplaced competitor (4-3)
99. Constantly busy (2,3,2)
100. Hire
102. Pungent bulb
104. Largest African nation
107. Uncanny
109. Wet
110. Vocal solo
111. Jet-baths
113. Soapie session
115. Obvious
117. TV award
118. Young deer
121. Contemptibly
122. Patella
127. Nonsense, ... jumbo
128. Razor cuts
129. Bits & pieces (4,3,4)
132. Recipe components
133. Stupid 134. Avarice
135. Packaged 136. Dilapidated
137. 24 hours ago
138. Unforgettable
143. Huge stone blocks
145. Tomahawk
151. Enormous
154. Men's Singles champion, .. Agassi
156. Lustre
159. One, numero ... 164. Totally 169. Cougars
170. Steam burn
173. Influences
174. Short, witty remark
177. Author, ... Asimov
178. Take oath
181. Whirling (of water)
183. Women warriors
187. Wantonly destroy
192. Female hormone
195. Current of air
199. Supervise
201. Points gun
202. Anti-flood embankment
203. Genuine fact
204. Implicit
206. Gay
207. Non-rural
208. Cheap, a ... a dozen
209. Lends a hand to 213. Smacks
215. Strolling
217. Killed
221. Helium & hydrogen
222. Not ever 223. Cut with scissors
224. Charlotte Bronte novel, Jane ... 225. Withdraw, ... out
226. Poet, ... Allan Poe
228. Legal trade bans
234. Phone security device
236. Wrongdoers
238. Terminate
240. Singer, ... Orbison
242. Normally (2,1,4)
243. Peculiarity
245. Mussels or clams
247. Peppermint essence
248. Nut fastener
250. Scientist, Albert ...
251. Weasel-like animals
253. Overfill
255. College test
257. Recline lazily
258. Restaurant list
261. Lovers' fling
262. Military forces
265. Valuable ores, precious ...
266. Garden ornament
268. Hex
269. The Continent
275. Jolly laugh (2,2)
276. Rounded roof
278. Hampers
280. Pressurised spray
282. Delights
283. Dollar division
285. Properly positioned, in ...
287. Steam generator
289. Tripoli citizen
290. Impersonates
291. Melted
292. Barked shrilly
293. Potato
296. Colorado ski resort
297. Writer, ... Thomas
299. Obtain (funds)
302. Two-door car
304. ... Fools' Day
305. Earnest requests
306. Crown Princess of Denmark
307. Opera singer
308. Yes votes
321. Urges
322. Sense
323. Blunted
324. Movie actors (4,5)
140. Enforces once more
141. Pacified
142. Courageous
310. Head cook
312. Charismatic air
313. Spreading trees
By Rob Foenander
Awards fraud
■ Music Victoria has issued a statement saying it had become aware that voting for its 2024 awards had been targeted by "unknown assailant/s" resulting in new winners being announced in several categories. It said the hacking had resulted in thousands of what it described as ‘misregistered votes’ being falsely attributed to nominees who were presented with the awards at a gala ceremony in Melbourne in October. Music Victoria said it had notified the Victoria Police Cybercrime, Fraud, Scams and Online Safety Unit
Garden of Eden
■ Central Victorian indie-folk duo The Wildlings, featuring friends Drew Walker and Ryan Gay, have released their new single. Titled Garden Of Eden, the song was written about an insatiable lust and the feeling of giving in to your wildest intrusive thoughts. It explores the dynamics of greed and gluttony especially in the context of a lustful relationship, says Ryan . More info: @TheWildlingsAus at YouTube
Paper Cranes
■ ‘Too Far Gone’, the new single release for Paper Cranes , delves into the overwhelming feeling of being trapped with the walls seemingly closing in. It's a relatable experience that many people face, where everything feels like it's too much to handle. The song serves as a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always hope and the possibility of finding a way forward.
Beethoven’s 9th Symphony by MSO
■ James Macmillan’s Concerto for Orchestra startles with its unexpected use of instrumentation and focus on duets and trios in its progression.
The percussion plays a prominent role and a soundscape is generated rhythmically and texturally as instruments are played in unexpected ways – the wood of a bow striking strings and trumpets muted.
This innovation is, in many ways, testament to Beethoven’s innovative compositions two centuries earlier.
The featured Ninth Symphony of the MSO’s Beethoven Festival in the second half of the evening still astounds.
There is an added dimension in his final symphony that highlights the progression of the man.
The verve and vigour of the earlier symphonies are still there – the anticipation and suspense that builds rhythmically and dynamically with the harmonic progressions – but it’s as if there is an added degree of acceptance and maturity in the composer himself who was profoundly deaf when he wrote the ninth.
There is a lyricism and spiritual depth in the third movement which the orchestra brings to bear under the baton of Jaime Martin that finds a form of release in the final Ode of Joy fourth movement, as if only the human voice can now complete the evolution of the composer.
The MSO Chorus gives warmth
Crossword Solution No 13
to the sound and the
Skelton and Shenyang provide a tone and texture that the orchestra has been seemingly searching for all along.
The festival has been an astonishing insight into Beethoven’s evolution and one that the orchestra has readily taken to allowing audiences to listen, learn, and live a musical journey that revolutionised the musical world at the time and one we can still experience today.
- Review by David McLean
New building to open at TarraWarra
■ TarraWarra Museum of Art in the Yarra Valley will open the doors publicly to its new building, the Eva and Marc Besen Centre, from March 4.
The Centre will be a dedicated place of learning and creative inspiration for all ages, utilising flexible and adaptable spaces to deliver a diverse array of events including exhibitions, educational workshops, talks, lectures, performances, classical music concerts and live arts events.
The new Centre will provide visible access to over 300 stored artworks from the TarraWarra Museum of Art permanent collection.
P ILK V R H OMIT MAAM I A O STREAMING NOISINESS S M W MANSION T A N S NEE D E G S TIDYING U I D PENNY MONO EWER MODEM N N R MUCH D ARE EYED BBC NERO
■ Premier Firsts. One Day. Camberwell Magpies 1st XI v Dandenong 1st XI, abandoned. Melbourne University 1st XI v Fitzroy Doncaster 1st XI, abandoned. Kingston Hawthorn 1st XI v St Kilda 1st XI, abandoned. Frankston Peninsula 1st XI v Melbourne 1st XI, cancelled. Essendon 1st XI v Northcote 1st XI, abandoned. Greenvale Kangaroos 1st XI v Footscray 1st XI, abandoned. Bye: Carlton 1st XI, Casey South Melbourne 1st XI, Geelong 1st XI, Prahran 1st XI, Richmond 1st XI, Ringwood 1st XI.
■ Premier Seconds. One Day. Melbourne University 2nd XI v Casey South Melbourne 2nd XI, abandoned. Essendon 2nd XI v Geelong 2nd XI, abandoned. Frankston Peninsula 2nd XI v Ringwood 2nd XI, abandoned. Kingston Hawthorn 2nd XI v Carlton 2nd XI, abandoned. Greenvale Kangaroos 2nd XI v Richmond 2nd XI, abandoned. Camberwell Magpies 2nd XI v Prahran 2nd XI, abandoned. Bye: Dandenong 2nd XI, Fitzroy Doncaster 2nd XI, Footscray 2nd XI, Melbourne 2nd XI, Northcote 2nd XI, St Kilda 2nd XI.
■ Premier Thirds. One Day. Camberwell Magpies 3rd XI v Prahran 3rd XI, abandoned. Melbourne University 3rd XI v Casey South Melbourne 3rd XI, abandoned. Kingston Hawthorn 3rd XI v Carlton 3rd XI, abandoned. Frankston Peninsula 3rd XI v Ringwood 3rd XI, abandoned. Greenvale Kangaroos 3rd XI v Richmond 3rd XI, abandoned. Sunday, December 1: Essendon 3rd XI v Geelong 3rd XI, abandoned. Bye: Dandenong 3rd XI, Fitzroy Doncaster 3rd XI, Footscray 3rd XI. Melbourne 3rd XI, Northcote 3rd XI, St Kilda 3rd XI. ■ Premier Fourths. One Day. Fitzroy Doncaster 4th XI v Melbourne University 4th XI, abandoned. Northcote 4th XI v Essendon 4th XI, abandoned. Melbourne 4th XI v Frankston Peninsula 4th XI, cancelled. St Kilda 4th XI v Kingston Hawthorn 4th XI, abandoned. Footscray 4th XI v Greenvale Kangaroos 4th XI, abandoned. Dandenong 4th XI v Camberwell Magpies 4th XI, abandoned. Bye: Carlton 4th XI, Casey South Melbourne 4th XI, Geelong 4th XI, Prahran 4th XI, Richmond 4th XI, Ringwood 4th XI.
Sub-District
■ North-East First XI. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Box Hill 1st XI 10/181 v Donvale 1st XI 0/14. Bayswater 1st XI 1/49 v Coburg 1st XI 10/214, abandoned. Balwyn 1st XI v Preston 1st XI 3/407. Brunswick 1st XI v Ivanhoe 1st XI 10/194. Plenty Valley 1st XI 10/192 v Mt Waverley 1st XI 0/19. Kew 1st XI 8/238 v Noble Park 1st XI, abandoned.St Bernard's OC 1st XI 5/155 v Strathmore 1st XI 10/113. Endeavour Hills 1st XI 10/159 v Croydon 1st XI 1/74.
■ North-East Second XI. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Donvale 2nd XI 10/149 v Box Hill 2nd XI. Coburg 2nd XI 10/ 221 v Bayswater 2nd XI, abandoned. Preston 2nd XI v Balwyn 2nd XI, abandoned. Ivanhoe 2nd XI 10/180 v Brunswick 2nd XI 0/2. Mt Waverley 2nd XI 10/196 v Plenty Valley 2nd XI 1/41. Noble Park 2nd XI v Kew 2nd XI 8/252, abandoned. Strathmore 2nd XI 5/35 v St Bernard's OC 2nd XI 10/108, abandoned. Croydon 2nd XI v Endeavour Hills 2nd XI 10/ 144.
■ North-West Third XI Division 1. TwoDay. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. St Bernard's OC 3rd XI v Melton 3rd XI 9/225. Brunswick 3rd XI v Werribee 3rd XI 9/371, abandoned. Plenty Valley 3rd XI 10/134 v Preston 3rd XI 1/40. Sunday, December 1: Kew 3rd XI v Hoppers Crossing 3rd XI.
■ North-West Third XI Division 2. TwoDay. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Coburg 3rd XI 5/95 v Ivanhoe 3rd XI 10/91. Strathmore 3rd XI 10/150 v Williamstown 3rd XI 4/110. Yarraville 3rd XI v Spotswood 3rd XI. Altona 3rd XI 10/128 v Taylors Lakes 3rd XI, abandoned.
■ North-West Fourth XI Division 1. TwoDay. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Melton 4th XI 10/48 v St Bernard's OC 4th XI 4/103. Werribee 4th XI 10/161 v Brunswick 4th XI 1/86. Preston 4th XI 0/61 v Plenty Val-
ley 4th XI 10/89. Hoppers Crossing 4th XI 5/ 181 v Kew 4th XI 8/77.
■ North-West Fourth XI Division 2. TwoDay. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Williamstown 4th XI 0/24 v Strathmore 4th XI 10/158. Spotswood 4th XI v Yarraville 4th XI. Taylors Lakes 4th XI 10/165 v Altona 4th XI. Sunday, December 1: Ivanhoe 4th XI v Coburg 4th XI.
■ South-East Third XI Division 1. TwoDay. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Oakleigh 3rd XI v Balwyn 3rd XI 10/136. Caulfield 3rd XI v Croydon 3rd XI 9/225. Brighton 3rd XI v Bayswater 3rd XI, abandoned. Sunday, December 1: Mt Waverley 3rd XI v Malvern 3rd XI.
■ South-East Third XI Division 2. TwoDay. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Ormond 3rd XI 10/319 v Elsternwick 3rd XI. Box Hill 3rd XI 10/124 v Noble Park 3rd XI 5/ 90, abandoned. Moorabbin 3rd XI 10/282 v Port Melbourne 3rd XI 3/64. Endeavour Hills 3rd XI 10/199 v Donvale 3rd XI 1/1, abandoned.
■ South-East Fourth XI Division 1. TwoDay. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Balwyn 4th XI v Oakleigh 4th XI 4/423. Croydon 4th XI v Caulfield 4th XI 10/229, abandoned. Bayswater 4th XI 10/321 v Brighton 4th XI, abandoned. Malvern 4th XI 4/56 v Mt Waverley 4th XI 10/181.
■ South-East Fourth XI Division 2. TwoDay. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Elsternwick 4th XI 6/324 v Ormond 4th XI. Noble Park 4th XI 6/137 v Box Hill 4th XI 10/ 63. Port Melbourne 4th XI v Moorabbin 4th XI Forfeit. Donvale 4th XI 0/35 v Endeavour Hills 4th XI 10/177.
■ South-West First XI. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Williamstown 1st XI v Melton 1st XI 4/87. Werribee 1st XI 10/230 v Malvern 1st XI 2/16. Brighton 1st XI 2/31 v Spotswood 1st XI 10/155. Hoppers Crossing 1st XI v Oakleigh 1st XI 9/279, abandoned. Elsternwick 1st XI 0/1 v Port Melbourne 1st XI 10/199. Altona 1st XI v Caulfield 1st XI 6/286. Ormond 1st XI 10/185 v Taylors Lakes 1st XI 0/33. Moorabbin 1st XI 1/5 v Yarraville 1st XI 10/188, abandoned.
■ South-West Second XI. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Melton 2nd XI v Williamstown 2nd XI 10/191, abandoned. Malvern 2nd XI 9/272 v Werribee 2nd XI, abandoned. Spotswood 2nd XI 1/45 v Brighton 2nd XI 10/158. Oakleigh 2nd XI v Hoppers Crossing 2nd XI 10/182. Port Melbourne 2nd XI v Elsternwick 2nd XI 7/347. Caulfield 2nd XI 10/ 257 v Altona 2nd XI. Taylors Lakes 2nd XI 9/ 275 v Ormond 2nd XI. Yarraville 2nd XI 4/363 v Moorabbin 2nd XI.
Diamond Valley
■ Barclay Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Bundoora 1st XI 1/4 v Diamond Creek 1st XI 10/189. Bundoora United 1st XI v North Eltham Wanderers 1st XI 9/254, abandoned. Epping 1st XI 10/137 v Macleod 1st XI 2/39, abandoned. Heidelberg 1st XI v Research Eltham Collegians 1st XI 9/169, abandoned. Rosanna 1st XI 1/12 v Riverside 1st XI 10/153, abandoned.
■ Money Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Banyule 1st XI 10/233 v Bundoora Park 1st XI. Rosebank 1st XI 9/201 v Plenty 1st XI, abandoned. Lower Plenty 1st XI 6/284 v Greensborough 1st XI, abandoned. Lalor Stars 1st XI 10/185 v Lower Eltham 1st XI 0/11, abandoned. Montmorency 1st XI v Eltham 1st XI 8/333, abandoned.
■ Mash Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Thomastown 1st XI v Mernda 1st XI 9/249, abandoned. Mill Park 1st XI v Dennis 1st XI 9/305, abandoned. Rivergum 1st XI 9/236 v South Morang 1st XI, abandoned. Panton Hill 1st XI 9/255 v Thomastown United 1st XI. Hurstbridge 1st XI 1/91 v Laurimar 1st XI 10/207, abandoned.
■ B-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Diamond Creek 2nd XI 10/85 v Montmorency 2nd XI 3/126. Mernda 2nd XI v Epping 2nd XI Forfeit. North Eltham Wanderers 2nd XI 1/37 v Banyule 2nd XI 10/194, abandoned. Plenty 2nd XI v0/8 v Heidelberg 2nd XI
10/174. Riverside 2nd XI 10/256 v Rosanna 2nd XI, abandoned.
■ C-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Eltham 2nd XI 7/248 v Rivergum 2nd XI. Bundoora Park 2nd XI 8/76 v Bundoora United 2nd XI 9/250. Greensborough 2nd XI 10/231 v Lalor Stars 2nd XI. Research Eltham Collegians 2nd XI 10/ 216 v Riverside 3rd XI 2/83, abandoned. Macleod 2nd XI 10/69 & 0/34 v Lower Plenty 2nd XI 4-d/136.
■ D-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Montmorency 3rd XI v Rosebank 2nd XI 7/317, abandoned. Diamond Creek 3rd XI v Mill Park 2nd XI 9/228, abandoned. Laurimar 2nd XI 10/216 v Hurstbridge 2nd XI 1/78, abandoned. Dennis 2nd XI 7/213 v North Eltham Wanderers 3rd XI, abandoned. South Morang 2nd XI 0/14 v Bundoora 2nd XI 10/181, abandoned.
■ E-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Greensborough 3rd XI 10/133 v Banyule 3rd XI 5/134. Mernda 3rd XI v Panton Hill 2nd XI 8-d/235. Thomastown United 2nd XI v Bundoora 3rd XI 4/193. Thomastown 2nd XI 9/192 v Lower Plenty 3rd XI. Riverside 4th XI 10/137 v Heidelberg 3rd XI 6/101, abandoned.
■ F1-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Banyule 4th XI v Laurimar 3rd XI 9/338, abandoned. Bundoora United 3rd XI v Macleod 3rd XI 10/242, abandoned. Plenty 3rd XI 0/3 v Greensborough 4th XI 10/254, abandoned. Rivergum 3rd XI 7/99 v Research Eltham Collegians 3rd XI 10/194, abandoned.
■ F2-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Eltham 3rd XI v South Morang 3rd XI 7/420. Whittlesea 1st XI v Mill Park 3rd XI Forfeit. North Eltham Wanderers 4th XI 6/ 64 v Research Eltham Collegians 4th XI 10/ 138. Dennis 3rd XI 9/386 v Montmorency 4th XI.
■ F3-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Riverside 5th XI 2/63 v Bundoora Park 3rd XI 9-d/337, abandoned. Greensborough 5th XI v Hurstbridge 3rd XI 9/ 420. South Morang 4th XI 5/221 v Lower Plenty 4th XI 1/112, abandoned. Banyule 5th XI 10/ 207 v Laurimar 4th XI 10/91.
■ G1 East-Grade. One Day. Heidelberg 4th XI Forfeit v Diamond Creek 4th XI. Lower Eltham 3rd XI v Panton Hill 3rd XI, abandoned. Riverside 6th XI v Plenty 4th XI, abandoned. Rosanna 3rd XI v Montmorency 5th XI, abandoned.
■ G1 West-Grade. One Day. Bundoora 4th XI v Bundoora Park 4th XI. Bundoora United 4th XI v Thomastown United 3rd XI, abandoned. Laurimar 5th XI v Dennis 4th XI, abandoned. Lalor Stars 3rd XI v Rosebank 3rd XI, abandoned.
■ G2-Grade. One Day. Macleod 4th XI v North Eltham Wanderers 5th XI, abandoned. Research Eltham Collegians 5th XI v Eltham 4th XI, abandoned. South Morang 5th XI v Rivergum 4th XI, abandoned. Diamond Creek 5th XI v Riverside 7th XI, abandoned.
■ G3-Grade. One Day. Thomastown United 4th XI v Thomastown 3rd XI. Mernda 4th XI v Greensborough 6th XI, abandoned. Hurstbridge 4th XI v Whittlesea 2nd XI. North Eltham Wanderers 6th XI v Dennis 5th XI. Montmorency 6th XI v Diamond Creek 6th XI, abandoned. Eltham 5th XI v Lower Plenty 5th XI. Bye: South Morang 6th XI.
Eastern
■ F Turf. One-Day. Bulleen 3rd XI v La Trobe University 3rd XI, abandoned. Richmond Union 2nd XI v Deepdene Bears 4th XI, abandoned. Surrey Hills 4th XI v East Malvern Tooronga 4th XI, abandoned. Heathmont 4th XI v Richmond City 3rd XI, abandoned. Sunday, December 1: Mont Albert 4th XI v Hawthorn Boroondara 4th XI, abandoned.
■ LOC1. One-Day. Eagles 1st XI v Northcote United 1st XI, abandoned. Manningham 1st XI v Malvern Valley 1st XI, abandoned. Hartley 1st XI v Knox Churches 1st XI, abandoned. Bye: Deepdene Uniting 2nd XI ■ LOC2. One-Day. Balwyn Saints 3rd XI v Eagles 4th XI, abandoned. Eagles 2nd XI v Mulgrave 4th XI, abandoned. Monash Univer-
sity 1st XI v Glen Iris 3rd XI, abandoned. AYC Harlequins 1st XI v East Doncaster 4th XI, abandoned.
■ LOC3. One-Day. Salesian 1st XI v Manningham 2nd XI, abandoned. Burwood United Canterbury 3rd XI v Eagles 3rd XI, abandoned. St Stephens Greythorn 1st XI v Melbourne Sixers 1st X1, abandoned. East Doncaster 5th XI v North Balwyn 3rd XI, abandoned.
■ LOC4. One-Day. Salvation Army Waverley 1st XI V Ashwood 3rd XI, abandoned. Malvern Valley 2nd XI v Mount Waverley Catholics 2nd XI, abandoned. STC South Camberwell 3rd XI v Burwood 4th XI, abandoned. St. Pauls Oakleigh Districts 3rd XI v Mulgrave 5th XI, abandoned. North Balwyn 4th XI v AYC Harlequins 2nd XI, abandoned.
■ LOC5. One-Day. Toorak-Prahran 4th XI v Glen Iris 4th X1, abandoned. Blackburn North United 2nd XI v Northcote United 2nd XI, abandoned. Hawthorn Boroondara 5th XI v Mount Waverley Uniting 2nd XI, abandoned. Deepdene Uniting 3rd XI v Heathmont 5th XI, abandoned. Clifton Hill 4th XI v St Andrews Gardiner 1st XI, abandoned.
■ LOC6. One-Day. Abbotsford Anglers 1st XI v Manningham 3rd XI, abandoned. Burwood Unt. Canterbury 4th XI v Salesian 2nd XI, abandoned. Glen Waverley 4th XI v Ashburton Willows 3rd XI, abandoned. Knox Churches 2nd XI v Mount Waverley Uniting 3rd XI, abandoned. Ashwood 4th XI v STC South Camberwell 4th XI, abandoned.
■ LOC7. One-Day. Mont Albert 5th XI v Richmond Union 3rd XI, abandoned. Mount Waverley Catholics 3rd XI v STC South Camberwell 5th XI Saturday Synthetic, abandoned. East Doncaster 6th XI v Edinburgh 5th XI, abandoned. Bulleen 4th XI v Hawthorn Boroondara 6th XI, abandoned. Bye: Glen Waverley 5th XI - Sunday ■ LOC8. One-Day. Abbotsford Anglers 1st XI v Manningham 3rd XI, abandoned. Burwood Unt. Canterbury 4th XI v Salesian 2nd XI, abandoned. Glen Waverley 4th XI v Ashburton Willows 3rd XI, abandoned. Knox Churches 2nd XI v Mount Waverley Uniting 3rd XI, abandoned. Ashwood 4th XI v STC South Camberwell 4th XI, abandoned. ■ LOC9. One-Day. West Ivanhoe United 3rd XI v East Doncaster 7th XI, abandoned. Burnley CYMS 3rd XI v Edinburgh 6th XI, abandoned. Monash University 3rd XI v Richmond City 4th XI, abandoned. Clifton Hill 5th XI v Balwyn Saints 4th XI, abandoned. Richmond Union 4th XI v Holy Trinity 5th XI, abandoned.
Morn. Peninsula
■ Provincial Firsts. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Heatherhill 1sts v Baden Powell 1sts 10/296, abandoned. Old Peninsula 1st XI v Red Hill 1sts 9/302. Sorrento 1sts 10/156 v Langwarrin 1sts 1/27. Dromana 1sts 6/160 v Pines 1sts 10/124.
■ Peninsula Firsts. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Long Island 1sts 10/ 202 v Mt Eliza Senior Men 1st X1 1/40, abandoned. Mornington 1sts 0/52 v Rosebud Senior Men 1sts 10/132, abandoned. Moorooduc 1sts 0/24 v Seaford Tigers 1sts 10/179. Somerville Senior Men 1sts 10/242 v Seaford 1sts 3/9, abandoned.
■ District Firsts. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Crib Point 1sts v Carrum Downs 1sts 8/288, abandoned. Main Ridge 1sts 10/152 v Balnarring 1sts 0/7. Baxter 1sts 10/ 152 v Carrum 1sts 0/10, abandoned. Boneo 1sts v Flinders 1sts 8/240, abandoned. ■ Provincial Seconds. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Baden Powell 2nds v Heatherhill 2nds 10/239, abandoned. Red Hill 2nds 10/242 v Old Peninsula 2nd XI. Langwarrin 2nds 0/4 v Sorrento 2nds 10/182, abandoned. Pines 2nds 0/11 v Dromana 2nds 10/166.
■ Peninsula Seconds. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Mt Eliza Senior Men 2nd X1 v Long Island 2nds 10/259, abandoned. Rosebud Senior Men 2nds 10/212 v Mornington 2nds 0/72. Seaford Tigers 2nds 10/ 266 v Moorooduc 2nds 1/31. Seaford 2nds v Somerville Senior Men 2nds 5/137. Continued On Next Page
SCORES FROM WEEKEND MATCHES
Continued From Previous Page
■ District Seconds. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Carrum Downs 2nds 4/17 v Crib Point 2nds 10/115, abandoned. Balnarring 2nds v Main Ridge 2nds 6/184, abandoned. Carrum 2nds 10/97 v Baxter 2nds 3/46, abandoned. Flinders 2nds v Boneo 2nds 8/281, abandoned.
■ Sub-District Seconds. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Frankston YCW 2nds v Tootgarook 2nds 10/86. Skye 2nds 10/ 222 v Tyabb 2nds 1/55, abandoned. Ballam Park 2nds 9-d/359 v Rye 2nds 8/85. Delacombe Park 2nds 5-d/160 v Mt Martha 2nds 10/52 & 2/7.
■ A1-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Baden Powell 3rds 4/306 v Mornington 3rds. Old Peninsula 3rd XI 10/124 v Langwarrin 3rds 1/30. French Island 1sts 10/ 58 v Hastings 1sts 10/356. Pearcedale 1sts 9/157 v Tyabb 3rds 3/58, abandoned.
■ A2-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Carrum Downs 3rds 10/162 v Mt Eliza Senior Men 3rd X1. Heatherhill 3rds v Somerville Senior Men 3rds 7/306, abandoned. Baden Powell 4ths 8/233 v Delacombe Park Senior Mixed 3rds, abandoned. Long Island 3rds v Red Hill 3rds 10/ 166, abandoned.
■ A3-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Pines 3rds 10/81 v Tyabb 4ths 1/70, abandoned. Ballam Park A Grade 1/16 v Frankston YCW 3rds 10/213, abandoned. Baxter 3rds v Long Island 4ths 8/173, abandoned. Mt Martha 3rds 5/201 v Skye 3rds.
■ A4-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Rosebud Senior Men 3rds 10/ 105 v Balnarring 3rds 0/88. Boneo 3rds 10/ 102 v Sorrento 3rds 1/36. Delacombe Park Senior Mixed 4ths 0/9 v Carrum Downs 4ths 10/204, abandoned. Tyabb 5ths Forfeit v Crib Point 3rds.
■ B1-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Delacombe Park Senior Men 5ths 1/54 v Mt Eliza Senior Men 4th X1 1-d/ 389. Mornington 4ths 10/207 v Baden Powell 5ths. Baxter 4ths 3/85 v Carrum Downs 5ths 10/92. Long Island 5ths 10/172 v Langwarrin 4ths 0/9. Somerville Senior Men 4ths 10/326 v Pines 4ths.
■ B2-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Carrum Downs 6ths v Boneo 4ths. Skye 4ths v Heatherhill 4ths. Red Hill 4ths 5/245 v Pines 5ths B Grade. Sorrento 4ths v Balnarring 4th XI Forfeit.
■ C1-Grade. One Day. Pearcedale 2nds v Baden Powell 6ths. Carrum 4ths v Moorooduc 3rds. Mt Eliza Senior Men 5th X1 v Ballam Park C Grade, abandoned. Frankston YCW 4ths v Old Peninsula 4th XI, abandoned.
■ C2-Grade. One Day. Langwarrin 5ths v Carrum 3rds. Mt Martha Reds Senior Men 4th XI v Crib Point 4ths, abandoned. Seaford Tigers 3rds v Hastings 2nds, abandoned. Mt Eliza Senior Men 6th X1 v Flinders 3rds, abandoned.
■ C3-Grade. One Day. Crib Point 5ths v Dromana 3rds, abandoned. Main Ridge 3rds v Red Hill 5ths, abandoned. Mt Martha Reds Senior Men 5th XI Forfeit v Mornington 5th XI. Sorrento 5ths v Tootgarook 3rds, abandoned.
■ C4-Grade. One Day. Somerville Senior Men 5ths v Langwarrin 6ths. Mt Eliza Senior Men 7th X1 v Seaford 3rds, abandoned. Bye: Tyabb 6ths.
North Metro
■ Jika Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat., Dec. 7. Donath CC 1st XI v Preston Baseballers CC 1st XI. Reservoir Cobras CC 1st
XI v Camrea CC 1st XI. Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 1st XI v Keon Park CC 1st XI.
■ Jack Quick Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat., Dec. 7. Cameron CC 1st XI v Fiji Victorian CC 1st XI. Olympic Colts CC 1st XI v Bellfield Bulls CC 1st XI. Strathewen Cougars CC 1st XI v Fairfield CC 1st XI
■ Jack Kelly Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat., Dec. 7. Ivanhoe Mavericks CC 1st XI v Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 2nd XI. Keon Park CC 2nd XI v Northern Socials CC 1st XI. Fiji Victorian CC 2nd XI. West Preston CC 1st XI
■ B-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat., Dec. 7. Camrea CC 2nd XI v Royal Park
Reds 3rd XI. West Preston CC 2nd XI v Strathewen Cougars CC 2nd XI. Preston Baseballers CC 2nd XI v Preston YCW District CC 1st XI. Bellfield Bulls CC 2nd XI v Victorian Nepalese CA CC.
■ C-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat., Dec. 7. Bellfield Bulls CC 3rd XI v Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 3rd XI./ Fairfield CC 2nd XI v West Preston CC 3rd XI. Fiji Victorian CC 3rd XI v Reservoir Cobras CC 2nd XI. Royal Park Reds 4th XI v Donath CC 2nd XI.
■ Robert Young DODC. Northern Socials CC OD v Fiji Victorian CC OD, cancelled. Preston YCW District CC OD v Cameron CC 2nd XI, cancelled. Preston Baseballers CC OD v Camrea CC OD, cancelled. Kinglake CC OD v Bellfield Rocketz CC OD, cancelled. Keon Park CC OD v Olympic Colts CC OD, cancelled.
Ringwood District
■ Lindsay Trollope Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat. Dec. 7. Norwood 1XI v Croydon Ranges 1XI. Ainslie Park 1XI v Kilsyth 1XI. Montrose 1XI v Lilydale 1XI. North Ringwood 1XI v South Croydon 1XI.
■ Bill Wilkins Cup. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat. Dec. 7. Wonga Park 1XI v St Andrews 1XI. East Ringwood 1XI v Mooroolbark 1XI. Wantirna South 1XI v Templeton 1XI. Bayswater Park 1XI v Heatherdale 1XI. Vermont 1XI v Warranwood 1XI.
■ Stuart Newey Plate. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat. Dec. 7. Mt Evelyn 1XI v Croydon North 1XI. Seville Burras 1XI v Montrose 2XI. Chirnside Park 1XI v Warrandyte 1st XI. South Warrandyte 1XI v Heathwood 1XI.
■ Steve Pascoe Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat. Dec. 7. South Croydon 2XI v North Ringwood 2XI. Warrandyte 2nd XI v Yarra Junction 1XI. Kilsyth 2XI v Ainslie Park 2XI. Croydon Ranges 2XI v Norwood 2XI.
■ Pat Meehan Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat. Dec. 7. Lusatia Park 1XI
v Eastfield 1XI. Lilydale 2XI v Wantirna South 2XI. Healesville 1XI v East Ringwood 2XI. Templeton 2XI v Wonga Park 2XI.
■ Ian Spencer Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat. Dec. 7. Warranwood 2XI
v Coldstream 1XI. St Andrews 2XI v Chirnside Park 2XI. Mooroolbark 2XI v South Warrandyte 2XI. Montrose 3XI v Vermont 2XI. Heatherdale 2XI v North Ringwood 3XI.
■ David Beatty Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat. Dec. 7. Heathwood 2XI v Bayswater Park 2XI. Croydon Ranges 3XI v Norwood 3XI. Yarra Glen 1XI v Seville Burras 2XI, East Ringwood 3XI v Mt Evelyn 2XI.
■ Don Smith Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat. Dec. 7. Ainslie Park 3XI v Montrose 4XI. St Andrews 3XI v Hoddles Creek 1XI. Warrandyte 3rd XI v Wonga Park 3XI. Warranwood 3XI v Wandin 1XI.
■ John Springett Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat. Dec. 7. Chirnside Park 3XI v Lilydale 3XI. Kilsyth 3XI v Healesville 2XI. Yarra Junction 2XI v Wantirna South 3XI. Eastfield 2XI v Lusatia Park 2XI.
■ A-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat. Dec. 7. Powelltown 1XI v South Croydon 3XI. Wonga Park 4XI v Seville Burras 3XI. Norwood 4XI v St Andrews 4XI. Croydon North 2XI v Templeton 3XI.
■ B-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat. Dec. 7. Heatherdale 3XI v Mt Evelyn 3XI. Coldstream 2XI v Warrandyte 4th XI. Mooroolbark 3XI v Croydon Ranges 4XI. South Warrandyte 3XI v Heathwood 3XI.
■ C-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat. Dec. 7. North Ringwood 4XI v Warranwood 4XI. Healesville 3XI v St Andrews 5XI. Warrandyte 5th XI v Kilsyth 4XI. Wantirna 1XI v Chirnside Park 4XI.
■ D-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat. Dec. 7. Norwood 5XI v East Ringwood 4XI. Wonga Park 5XI v Mooroolbark 4XI. Croydon Ranges 5XI v Yarra Junction 3XI. Lilydale 4XI v Heatherdale 4XI
■ E-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 30 and Sat. Dec. 7. Wandin 2XI v Yarra Glen 2XI. Boronia Hawks 4XI v Warrandyte 6th XI. St Andrews 6XI v Wonga Park 6XI.
■ F-Grade. One Day. Vermont 3XI v Wantirna South 4XI. Montrose 5XI v Bayswater
Park 3XI. Seville Burras 4XI v Mt Evelyn 4XI. South Croydon 4XI v Ainslie Park 4XI.
■ G-Grade. One Day. Templeton 4XI: Bye. Mt Evelyn 5XI v Chirnside Park 5XI, abandoned. Hoddles Creek 2XI v Montrose 6XI. Heathwood 4XI v Kilsyth 5XI, abandoned.
■ H-Grade. One Day. Mt Evelyn 6XI v Norwood 6XI. Mooroolbark 5XI v Lusatia Park 3XI. Heatherdale 5XI v Healesville 4XI. Warranwood 5XI v North Ringwood 5XI.
■ I-Grade. One Day. Warrandyte 7th XI v Wantirna 2XI. Warranwood 6XI v Croydon Ranges 6XI. St Andrews 7XI: Bye. Eastfield 3XI v Croydon North 3XI
■ J-Grade. One Day. South Croydon 5XI v Ainslie Park 5XI. Wonga Park 7XI v St Andrews 8XI. Bayswater Park 4XI v Warranwood 7XI. Bye: Wantirna 3XI
■ K-Grade. One Day. Croydon North 4XI v Powelltown 2XI, Yarra Junction 4XI v Yarra Glen 3XI. Chirnside Park 6XI v Wandin 3XI.
■ L-Grade. One Day. East Ringwood 5XI v Yarra Junction 5X1. Lusatia Park 4th XI v Vermont 4XI. Bye: Healesville 5th XI
South East
■ Longmuir Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Bentleigh ANA 1 v West Bentleigh 1 9/246. Brighton Union 1 v CHAG 1 6/279. Bentleigh Uniting 1 v Le Page Park 1 5/304. Kingston Heath 1 10/127 v East Sandringham 1 1/14, abandoned.
■ Woolnough Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Mackie 1 10/112 v Washington Park 1 1/31, abandoned. Omega 1 v Elwood 1 10/252. Cheltenham Park 1 0/9 v Cluden 1 10/217, abandoned. Hampton United 1 v Hampton Central 1 10/197.
■ Quiney Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Elwood 2 v Omega 2 10/ 211, abandoned. Washington Park 2 10/122 v Carnegie South 1 1/34, abandoned. CUCC Kings 3 10/294 v Kingston Heath 2, abandoned. Le Page Park 2 10/136 v Bentleigh Uniting 2 3/60, abandoned.
■ Pullen Shield. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Highett West 1 10/304 v Brighton Union 2 0/11. West Bentleigh 2 v Mackie 2 8/329. East Sandringham 2 3/159 v Hampton United 2 10/96, Melbourne Wanderers 1 10/232 v Cheltenham Park 2, abandoned.
Western Suburbs
■ A-Grade. Two-Day. Sat., Nov. 23 and Sat., Nov. 30. Wyndham Vale A Grade 3rd XI v Seabrook A Grade 3rd XI 10/224. Point Cook CC A Grade 5th XI 5/50 v Werribee CC A 6th XI 10/219. Altona Sports A 1st XI - Two Day 5/399 v Western Utd SC A Grade 2nd XI. ■ Division 1. One Day. 5ABI Caroline Springs D01 v Williams Landing SC D01 1st XI, abandoned. Truganina CC D01 v Manor Lakes D01 1st XI, abandoned. Truganina Strikers D01 Yellow v West Point Titans D01 1st XI, abandoned. Utd Tarneit SC D01 1st XI v Tarneit Central D01 Blue, abandoned.
Latest News
Hunt for bandits
■ Whitehorse Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance following a ram raid in Forest Hill on Saturday morning (Nov. 30).
It is believed a white SUV bearing stolen registration plates of 1VK7IZ crashed through the front doors of a shopping centre along Canterbury Rd about 5am.
Once inside, the vehicle travelled an extensive way through the shopping centre, causing significant damage to at least seven businesses.
The offenders then rammed the vehicle into a kiosk, before stealing a safe and fleeing the scene in an unknown direction of travel. No one was inside at the time.
Detectives have released CCTV footage in the hope someone who was in the vicinity at the time may be able to recognise those involved.
Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
with Kerry Kulkens
ARIES (March 21 - April 20)
Lucky Colour: Green
Lucky Day: Monday
Racing Numbers: 9, 6, 5, 2
Lotto Numbers: 9, 15, 26, 35, 36, 30
Surprising news from afar may shake things up in your relationships, bringing shifts in close connections. If you're searching for understanding, turn to the person you least expect—they may offer the insight you need.
TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)
Lucky Colour: Red
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 4, 6, 5, 9
Lotto Numbers: 4, 12, 26, 9, 7, 11
Your focus on health and fitness will pay off, filling your days with purpose. Expect good fortune in games of chance and a delightful surprise from a loved one.
GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)
Lucky Colour: White
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 4, 9, 6, 7
Lotto Numbers: 4, 15, 29, 37, 9, 22 Big decisions lie ahead, especially concerning someone close. Your career will demand your full attention, but don’t worry—there’s still room for fun and adventure, leading to an exciting time.
CANCER (June 22 - July 22)
Lucky Colour: Orange
Lucky Day: Wednesday
Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 6, 5
Lotto Numbers: 2, 15, 26, 9, 33, 34
Positive changes are brewing in your career, promising improvements. Though personal relationships may feel strained, patience will lead to better harmony.
LEO (July 23 - August 22)
Lucky Colour: Blue
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 6, 5
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 26, 35, 40, 5
Your social calendar is packed, but be mindful of neglecting your personal life. Someone at home may feel left out, so try to balance your time between obligations and rest.
VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)
Lucky Colour: Cream
Lucky Day: Thursday
Racing Numbers: 4, 6, 2, 3
Lotto Numbers: 4, 12, 26, 36, 39, 8
You may need to start fresh with someone or something. Don't be discouraged—every ending is a new beginning. Financial matters should be left in expert hands for now.
LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)
Lucky Colour: Peach
Lucky Day: Monday
Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 6, 5
Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 25, 26, 33, 36
Your hard work is starting to pay off. Those who have put in the effort will reap the rewards. Relationship dynamics may shift, bringing new ideas into play.
SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)
Lucky Colour: Violet
Lucky Day: Thursday
Racing Numbers: 4, 9, 3, 2
Lotto Numbers: 4, 12, 26, 36, 34, 45
Though you feel more assertive than usual, be cautious not to let your boldness create unnecessary challenges. Social events may interfere with your rest—balance is key.
SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)
Lucky Colour: Yellow
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 2, 3
Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 32, 23, 36, 38
Exciting changes are on the horizon in your personal relationships, but don’t neglect those closest to you. New business connections will bring long-term success.
CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)
Lucky Colour: Blue
Lucky Day: Wednesday
Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 5, 6
Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 26, 9, 22, 4
Expect travel plans to unfold beautifully, with unexpected joy around the corner. Deeper understanding within your personal relationships will strengthen bonds.
AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)
Lucky Colour: Pink
Lucky Day: Thursday
Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 2, 3
Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 26, 34, 40, 45
A longing to escape may stir within you, but make sure to communicate your plans to those who matter. The fresh idea taking shape in your mind could be the key to future success.
PISCES (February 20 - March 20)
Lucky Colour: Lilac
Lucky Day: Thursday
Racing Numbers: 2, 1, 3, 2
Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 26, 5, 44, 41
Don’t over-promise or stretch yourself too thin right now. Stay grounded in both finances and commitments. Exciting changes are brewing in your career—get ready to ride the wave.
HONG KONG VASE OVER 2400 METRES
■ With most of the action finished in racing around Australia , there a few exciting races coming up overseas.
One of those is the running of the coveted Hong Kong Vase , worth plenty ,over 2400 metres.
There are at least several top gallopers that may have a crack at the loot.
The champion Irish galloper Jan Brueghel, was the favourite for the Melbourne Cup this year, only to be taken out by Stewards due to a slight injury picked up just prior to the race.
Jan Brueghel is one of Europe’s best horses, and his well-known Irish trainer Aidan O’Brien was not at all happy.
Well, I don’t think I would be. The horse is one of the best in Europe, even the world.
He hasn’t been heavily raced, but has accumulated over $2 million in earnings.
It will be interesting to see if Aidan has another crack at the Melbourne Cup next year.
Last year’s Caulfield and Melbourne Cup winner, Without A Fight, looks like he will make the trip, though he has been out of action for some time.
He is in the powerful stable of the Freedman’s Anthony and his son Sam
He is a good galloper and would hold his own in any company when it comes to a bit of a trip.
An added interest would be who would get the ride in the Vase if he goes around.
Another good type who could go around is the Chris Waller-trained Buckeroo, the runnerup in the Caulfield Cup.
Coming off a very good second behind Duke De Sessa, he had a try at the Melbourne Cup, but the barrier put paid to his chances drawing barrier 21 of the 23 starters.
His rider, the great international, Joe Moreira, had no luck in the run, and was trapped three and four-wide just about all the way.
The distance here in the Vase is over the Caulfield Cup trip, ideal if he has some luck.
He has got to be a big chance if he draws well, he could be hard to beat.
Then you have the Caulfield Cup winner, Duke De Sessa, who won over this distance in scoring in the Caulfield Cup, helped by a great ride by Harry Coffey. Although he won with only 52 kilos, he will get a bit more here, but the Ciaron Maher stable isconfident if he makes the trip, he will be hard to beat.
Another international who will give this a shake is the Japanese runner, Prognosis, who started favourite in the Cox Plate , but was smashed by the great mare, Viva Sistina , by eight lengths.
The Japanese are confident that he can come good and get the chocolates in this rich event.
You have got another couple of stars you can’t miss.
The Japanese star, Stunning Rose, has won many a classic including the Queen Elizabeth Cup.
It also won the Breeder’s Cup in America and is extremely smart.
Then you have the Irish horse Auguste Rodin, who is a Champion through and through,
Ted Ryan
864 nominations
■ The Melbourne Racing Club is highly delighted to accept 864 nominations for the 2025 Blue Diamond Stakes.
After their two-year-old dominance of last season,leading trainers Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott have started off on the right leg with and boast Breeder’s Plate winner, King Kirk and Golden Gift victor North England among their 108 first acceptances.
Leading Victorian trainer Ciaron Maher lodged 62 first acceptances, as he chases an elusive Blue Diamond Stakes.
Michael Freedman, who oversaw 12 twoyear-old victories last season, has entered a batch of 61 noms.
Ben, Will and JD Hayes have shot an early warning to their rivals by including Magic Mil-
lions Debutant Stakes winner over 1000 metres, Miss Celine, and Maribyrnong Plate 1000 metres winner Tycoon Star, among their first 39 acceptors.
The Hayes family have an astonishing 10 Blue Diamond Stakes Trophies in their cabinet, having last tasted success in 2023 with Little Brose. Kirkham Plate (1000m) winner Comedy is an early standout among team Godolphin, 47 entries.
The connections of three two-year-olds have seen enough in training to pay the $5 500 First late entry fee including Nick Ryan, who has paid up for his colt, Miewa, last seen finishing fourth in a Caulfield Heath Trial on October 3.
Busuttin Racing has also entered Field of Play, who finished impressively for third in his own trial that morning.
Hawkesbury trainer, Edward O’Rourke, also paid the late entry for his filly by Capitalist, out of a Not a Single Doubt mare, Knockout Girl.
Connections have until 12noon on January 7 to lodge second acceptances before the Sportsbet Blue Diamond Stakes Series kicks off on January 25 with two divisions of Blue Diamond Previews over 1000metres.
5000 milestone
■ Racing Victoria has celebrated a significant milestone, with more than 5000 retired racehorses having now been claimed by its network of members.
In recognition of this achievement, a ‘Wall of Claim’ was on show from November 14-17 at the Melbourne Showgrounds.
■ Equitana presents an important opportunity to connect with the broader community about the OTTC, RV’s programs and to educate them on the versatility of the thoroughbreds for various equine results. Boasting more than 7800 members, the OTTC has grown exponentially since its inception.
Jan Brueghel. Racing Photos.
IMPRESSIVE WINNERS AT SHEPP.
■ The regular Tuesday Shepparton meeting commenced the week on November 26 with a nine event card of entertaining racing with the most impressive winner being 5Y0 Life SignTrulyawork Of Art gelding Big Bad Ozzie in the 1690 metre Saddleworld Shepparton Pace.
Trained locally by Stephen O’Donoghue and driven by Bec Bartley who both hold a share, Big Bad Ozzie first up since February 2023 was restrained to the rear from his outside front line draw as the speedy mare Ivana Bytheseaside flew away from gate five to lead. Going forward to follow both Wind Sock and On The Hunt ahead of him forward in the last lap, Big Bad Ozzie after angling five wide on turning showed a great turn of speed in the straight to blouse On The Hunt by a head on the wire to register a terrific victory.
Wemade Freo ran on nicely from a long way back for third 8.1 metres back suggesting a win is not too far off. The mile rate 1-54.7.
■ Two year old Lennytheshark-Pembrook
Caesar colt Ronnie The Hammer defeated his older rivals in the 1690 metre Elite Horse Transport Pace returning a mile rate of 1-59.3.
Trained at Kialla by David Moran, Ronnie The Hammer driven by Nathan Jack led throughout from the pole to easily account for Nomorerelying (four pegs) and Honest Harriet which trailed the winner. The margins 11.8 by ■ Mundoona trainer/driver Jeremy Quinlan’s 7Y0 Shadow Play-Riverside Oakes gelding Our Cheeky Devil at start number 136 snared the Avenel Equine Clinic Pace over 1690 metres.
Starting from the extreme draw, Our Cheeky Devil settled four back in the moving line with the favourite Aliza Hill leading from gate three.
Going forward three wide uncovered in the last lap, Our Cheeky Devil raced clear in the straight to prevail by 1.1 metres from the ever reliable Wingate Guy which raced exposed from gate two on the second line, with Bet Sheza Lady (three pegs) third 2.2 metres back. The mile rate 1-58.9.
■ Charlton based Tori Hutchins was successful with Guaranteed-Celestial Diamond 5Y0 gelding Celestial Zodiac in the 1690 metre Your Sold Real Estate Pace.
With Blake Pace in the sulky, Celestial Zodiac from gate two settled three back in the moving line with Mynameisruby leading from gate three.
Going forward with a rush in the last lap to lead on the final bend, Celestial Zodiac greeted the judge 8.6 metres in advance of Joeys Hanover which trailed the pacemaker easing outside him on the home turn which allowed Icanmotor (three pegs) to use the sprint lane for third 3.5 metres away. The rate 1-57.9.
Two meetings
■ Two meetings Wednesday Maryborough and Bendigo on a busy day. At Maryborough the Maryborough IGA Pace over 1690 metres could easily have been renamed the ‘All Aged Pace’ as the three placegetters Ace Duigan (12 yrs), Silver Domino (7) and Well Well (8) along with Friends (12) who ran fourth had posted 61 wins between them, the victor being Mr AviatorRamleighs Love gelding Ace Duigan raced by the Mannix family, trained at Heathcote by Michael and driven by Bendigo’s Ashley Manton led all of the way from gate four to win as he pleased by 8.7 metres from Silver Domino (three pegs from inside the second line), with Well Well third 5.3 metres away third. The mile rate 157.7.
■ Veteran Hamilton trainer Jim Barker’s most honest Changeover-Presidential Drive 9Y0 gelding Presidentialchange chalked up his 16th victory in 137 outings when a strong winner of the Vital Signs Pace ovrer 1690 metres. Driven by granddaughter Jackie, Presidentialchance from gate two on the second line settled three back in the moving line as Our Ultimate Bonny led from gate three. Going forward three wide solo in the last lap, Presidentialchange sprinted brilliantly to join the leaders on turning to score by 3.8 metres in a rate of 2-00.2 from a death-seating Pickle It which fought on bravely. Shezabluechip (three pegs from the pole) was third 1.3 metres back after using the sprint lane.
■ Local trainer/driver Mark Hayes has won
Harness Racing
len-baker@ bigpond.com
with Len Baker
numerous races at Maryborough over the years and added another to the tally when consistent 4Y0 Aldebaran Eagle-Aldebaran Deegan gelding That Other Thing landed the Join Your Local Carisbrook Lions Club Trotters Mobile over 2190 metres.
Despite racing exposed for the last half of the journey outside rank outsider Sonnyboy which had made a fast move to head off polemarker Mumstheword at the bell, That Other Thing was so meritorious, defeating Sonnyboy by 2.1 metres, with Nellie Joy coming from the tail for third a metre back. The mile rate 2-03.8.
■ Lara father and son Jim and Paul Warnock have a habit of winning races at big odds and 8Y0 Western Terror-Kano Star gelding Calledonian Terra added another to their list when taking the 1690 Bartlett Manufacturing Pace at odds of $16.
Enjoying a sweet passage from the pole on the back of the leader Razs Veyron (gate two), Caledonian Terra made full use of the sprint lane to gain the day by a head over Redbank Molly (one/three – three wide last lap) and Budd Sidewinder also along the sprint lane from near last for third 2.1 metres back. The mile rate 156.1.
■ Ardmona trainer/driver Donna Castles also provided a rough result when Bacardi LindyTender Annie 7Y0 mare Lindy Grace at odds of $21.00 led throughout from the pole in the Aldebaran Park Trotters Mobile over 2190 metres.
Allowed to bowl along at her leisure, Lindy Grace defied all challengers to prevail by 1.5 metres from Rastamon (death-one/one from gate five), with Lady Be Lucky (three pegs from gate three) a half head away third after using the sprint lane. The mile rate 2-02.8.
■ At Bendigo, Longlea trainer Rebecca Morrissey’s 6Y0 Love You-Sundons Pride mare Tictok was a brilliant victor of the 2150 metre Sumthingaboutmaori Trotters Mobile .
Bred and raced by Ararat’s Gary Hull, Tictoc driven by former trainer Michael Bellman followed the leader The Chook (gate three) through from gate two on the second line and allowed to run, showed great speed to head off the leader at the post on the first occasion.
Travelling freely for the entire trip, Tictoc coasted to the wire 7.1 metres clear of The Chook who tried in vain on turning, with Kyvalley Anthony third a further 7.8 metres away after trailing the pair. The mile rate 159.8. With plenty of ability but a mind of her own, Tictoc has let her owners down on a number of occasions but when in the mood, is always very competitive.
■ Harston trainer/driver Dennis Paton’s 3Y0 Majestic Son-Sheza Amazon gelding Majestic Monarch broke his maiden status at start 21 (9 placings) with a strong victory in the Stematic 3Y0 Maiden Trotters Mobile over 2150 metres.
First up since April, Majestic Monarch raced by the Paton family enjoyed a lovely trip one/ one from gate two on the second line as Winnies Dream (gate six) had crossed the heavily supported polemarker Getoutofmydreams leaving first starter Peggy Vale (gate three) exposed but well back in the field for much of the journey with Majestic Monarch on her back.
Gradually creeping closer, Peggy Vale took a slender margin on the final bend with Majestic Monarch three wide outside the pair. In a dingdong duel on straightening, Majestic Monarch
bloused Peggy Vale who’s run was outstanding by a head on the wire, with Wallis running home late from mid-field for third 8.6 metres back 2.2 metres clear of Getoutofmydreams which ran his race in patches. The mile rate 2-03.6.
■ Bagshot owner/trainer Mary Jane Mifsud landed the True Roman 4Y0 & Older Maiden Trotters Mobile with Velvetnlace, a 7Y0 daughter of Modern Art and Eskimo Jack.
Driven by Long Forest based Jordan Leedham, Velvetnlace settled three pegs from gate two after Chris Alford sent the Ross Graham 5Y0 trained first starter OK Knox forward from gate three to assume control.
Coming away from the inside approaching the final bend, Velvetnlace raced away on straightening to record a big 16.5 metre margin over Ox Knox who wouldn’t relent, with Yoshida (one/three) running home late for third albeit 62.5 metres away. The mile rate 2-00.8.
Began fast
■ Woodvale part-owner/trainer Brett Cole’s 7Y0 Somebeachsomewhere-Bring Her Back gelding Nai Harn Bay who has been in great form since joining the stable last June was victorious in the O’Brien Electrical Pace over 2180 metres at Kilmore on Thursday.
Driven by Ellen Tormey, Nai Harn Bay began fast only to be caught in the open from gate five outside Surfsup (gate four) before pressing forward to assume control.
Rated to perfection, Nai Harn Bay defied all challengers to record a head margin in a slugging finish over Michen Roy which raced outside him from gate seven, with Surfsup holding third 4.2 metres away. The mile rate 1-58.6. It was Nai Harn Bay’s 13th success in 84 outings.
■ Popular Junortoun trainer Bruce Morgan’s speedy 7Y0 Four Starzzz Shark-Ruby Slippers mare Polly Peachum loves the short trips and chalked up her 14th victory at start 133 when successful in the 1690 metre Buds and Branches Pace returning a mile rate of 1-59.8.
Raced by Bruce in partnership with driver Tony Vlaeminck (also a Bendigonian), Polly Peachum showing her usual gate speed led all of the way from gate four to greet the judge 1.7 metres in advance of Hesaa Lister (gate three) which trailed using the sprint lane. Bettorsweetvictory (one/one from gate two) was third a half neck back.
■ Charlton duo Tori Hutchins (owner/trainer) and Luke Dunne (driver) were successful with 7Y0 A Rocknroll Dance-Rocky Bay Lass mare Itzok To Rock in the 2180 metre MC Security Pace. Flying away from gate four to lead, Itzok To Rock ran her rivals ragged after opening up a big lead through the middle stages, accounting for Final Bow (gate six) from last by 18.1 metres in 1-59.4.
Illawong Phoenix battled on well for third from gate two on the second line after racing exposed finishing 4.5 metres away.
■ Kialla owner/trainer Casey Leijen’s 5Y0 Guaranteed-Shamica gelding Karuma Kev gave Ellen Tormey a double after winning the C&M Group Build Pace over 2180 metres.
Taken back from outside the front line as the start was effected to settle at the rear as old timer Hair Razor crossed Celestial Daybreak (gate two), a 56 race winner which had led out.
Going forward three wide solo in the last lap to join Celestial Daybreak which gained a freak inside passage prior to the home turn, the pair drew away from their rivals with Karuma Kev doing best to prevail by 4.2 metres.
Tophut Johny after going forward from the extreme draw to race in the open held third 14.8 metres away. The mile rate 2-00.7.
■ The 2180 metre Carlton and United Breweries Pace saw Ellen Tormey bring up a driving treble after astute Kyabram trainer Mick Blackmore’s Betterthancheddar-Phirey Philtra 3Y0 gelding Hoorah Philtra registered his 4th success in 20 outings.
Lobbing one/one from gate four trailing a hard pulling Rocco Americano (gate seven) which crossed the leader Blazing Shannon (gate three) at the bell, Hoorah Philtra raced exposed for the last lap proving too tough for his rivals to register a 1.8 metre victory from polemarker . Carramar Olam four wide home straight from four pegs, with Rocco Americano holding down third 1.6 metres back. The mile rate 2-00.2.
■ Australia’s greatest test of speed and stamina – the Inter Dominion first held in 1936 at Gloucester Park Perth and hosted this year by NSW, commenced at Newcastle on Friday with three pacing heats and two for trotters.
The series continues at Bathurst on Wednesday and Menangle the following Saturday, with the Grand Final on Saturday December 14.
■ Victoria was represented by Helluva (John Justice), Exotic Bushranger (Michael Stanley), Perfect Stride and Dangerous (Shane Sanderson), Mach Dan (Emma Stewart), Hector (Andy Gath) and Cantfindabettorman (Isabel Walsh) in the pacers and Keayang Stuka (Marg Lee), Harry Stamper (Joe Pace), Aldebaran Zeus (Brent Lilley), Plymouth Chubb (Peter Manning), Keayang Chucky (Paddy Lee), Parisian Artiste (Alex Ashwood), Queen Elida (Brent Lilley, Mufasa Metro (John Justice) and Aldebaran Vera (Marg Lee) in the trotters.
■ The first round winners were: Mistral Greg and Skye Bond – Demi Roberts WA) , Captains Knock (Brad Hewitt NSW), Cantfindabetterman (Victoria Isabel Walsh and Chris Alford), The Locomotive Brad Hewitt NSW) and Queen Elida Brent Lilley Victoria and Chris Alford.
- Len Baker
Police News
■ Police arrested and charged seven males following an alleged pursuit that started in Cann River.
Police spotted an alleged stolen ute and sedan in Mallacoota about 9.30am on November 21 and attempted to intercept the cars in Cann River however, both cars allegedly evaded police.
With a co-ordinated effort by members from Cann River, Mallacoota, Bruthen, Orbost, Lakes Entrance along with Highway Patrol officers from Orbost and Bairnsdale, the vehicles were tracked across Cann River, Brodribb River, Orbost and Nowa Nowa.
Fire at church
■ Geelong Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged three teenage boys and a girl following a church fire in St Leonards on Thursday (Nov. 28).
Emergency services were called to reports of a blaze at a Dudley Parade church about 2.15am.
The fire caused significant damage to the building which is believed to be the oldest building in St Leonards, and it is alleged the damage is estimated to be worth $1 million.
A 14-year-old boy, a 15-year-old boy, a 15-year-old girl and a 16-year-old boy have since been interviewed by investigators. They have all been charged with arson and burglary and will appear at a children’s court at a later date.
Where to pick up your free copy of The Local Paper
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■ ■ ASHBURTON. Ashburton Newsagency. 168 High St.
Court Lists
Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings
Wednesday, December 4
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■ BALWYN. Balwyn Newsagency.
413 Whitehorse Rd.
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■ BALWYN. Coles Express. 449 Whitehorse Rd (Cnr Imaroo St).
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■ BALWYN. United Petroleum. 99 Balwyn Rd.
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■ BAYSWATER. 7-Eleven. Cnr Scoresby Rd and High St.
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■ BAYSWATER. Cellarbrations. 717 Mountain Hwy.
■ ■ BAYSWATER. Coles Express. 768 Mountain Hwy.
■ ■ BORONIA. Metro Boronia Cinemas. Dorset Square.
■ ■ RINGWOOD. 7-Eleven. Cnr Loughnans Rd and Warrandyte Rd.
Local Briefs Awards praised
■ Mulgrave MLA Eden Foster says that she attended the Mulgrave Country Club’s annual John Milledge scholarship award ceremony for students.
“Now in its 22nd year, this scholarship program supports young people who are struggling in the Monash area by awarding $2000 scholarships to 12 year 11 students, including five from schools in the Mulgrave electorate.
“I want to extend my congratulations to each of these deserving recipients on their achievements and thank the Mulgrave Country Club for this annual award,” Ms Foster said.
Wantirna works
■ Bayswater MLA Jackson Taylor says that work is proceeding well on the doublecourt competition-grade basketball courts and gym for Wantirna College as well as new performing arts spaces.
“ I have been speaking to principal Carrie Wallis and the team out there. I am looking forward to taking a tour of the site very soon. Frames are up, walls are going in – it is all happening.
“This is the largest educational infrastructure project I have delivered since my time as the member for Bayswater, part of over $90 million delivered to local schools in my community. It is all happening. Education is a great leveller. I am proud to back it in,” Mr Taylor said.
Visit to Springvale
■ Eden Foster, Mulgrave MLA, says that she had the honour of representing the Deputy Premier and Minister for Education at the Springvale Chinese Ethnic School’s 40th anniversary celebration and Chinese characters festival.
“The festival was a demonstration of the richness of the Chinese language and a real testament to the incredible talent and creativity of the students and teachers at the Springvale Chinese Ethnic School,” Ms Foster said.
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■ ■ CLAYTON. Clayton Newsagency.
345 Clayton Rd.
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■ ■ ■ CROYDON. Coles Express. 168172 Mt Dandenong Rd.
■ ■ ■ ■ CROYDON. Croydon Lotto. 118 Main St.
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■ ■ ■ RINGWOOD. BP. Cnr Carcoola Rd/ Old Lilydale Rd and Maroondah Hwy.
■ ■ RINGWOOD. Coles Express. Cnr Oban Rd and Maroondah Hwy.
■ ■ RINGWOOD. Loughnans Rd Milk Bar. 83 Loughnans Rd.
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■ ■ CROYDON. Milk Bar. Cnr Old Lilydale Rd and Everard Rd.
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■ ■ CROYDON. Newsagency. 166 Main St.
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■ ■ ■ CROYDON SOUTH. Eastfield Milk Bar. 11 The Mall. Eastfield Rd
■ ■ WATTLE PARK. Wattle Park Licensed Post Office. 190 Elgar Rd
WHEELERS HILL. Wheelers Hill Hotel. Cnr Ferntree Guilly Rd and Jells Rd.
Abdel-Nour, Joseph Abdo, Ibrahim Achi, Usamah Allen, Lindy Almashhadi, Mohsen Balshaw, Jackson Barbara, Jason Barnard, Aaron Bautista, Benigo Boehm, Natalie Boskovski, George Brown, Michelle Browne, Joanne Callaway, Brayden Capodicasa, Leanne Cardamone, Michael Carra, Kathleen Chang-Faux, Denise Lyn Cleary, Stefan Cordina, Luke Crowe, Ryan Daisley, Jayden De Silva, Thommodura Dow-Gleeson, Luke Edwards, David Elliott, Danny Alexander Ellis, Lindsay Farha, Daniel Farrington, Amanda Felekos, James Fitzgerald, Paul Anthony Fonua, Patrick Meleke Gaballah, Rose Galati, Patrick Gatto, Zachary Daniel Giammarco, Marissa Gough, Elysa Guo, Wei Hall, Russell William Hamann, Tiara Hepworth, Jessica Lee Hicks, Brad Dean Hood, Stephen Hughes, Luke Thomas Hussain, Mohammed Janman, Antoinette Jones, Mitch Thomas Jones, Nikala Kasikci, Furkan Kaur, Harman Kingsland, Mark Lacey, Justin Lado, Emmanuel Last-Phillis, Lilyth Lemau, Michael Len, Aaron Christopher Liatsas, Evan Lowden, Chloe Mahauing, Patrick Manning, Bailey Markovski, Vanessa Martin, Thomas Mckay, Jake Mcmenaman, Darren Glenn Mehrez, Ali Molinaro, Taylor Naumovski, Zoran Nona, Misipele O'donnell, Jai Ostler, Luke Ozdemir, Ayhan Palmarini, Brendon Howard Parker, Ben Parr, James William Paul, Kerry Peterson, Shaun Pirini, Awa Polla, Marina Concetta Randall, Terry Richeh, Rabee Rogers, Michael Neil Romero, Jose Russell, Christopher Anthony Saba, Raquel Sandhu, Harpreet Sanfilippo, Antonio Sekirski, Steve Sfakianakis, Michael Sivanathan, Prashanth Sloan, Brendan Smith, Joshua David Sohn, Beth Stevens, Melissa Sulemani, Fletcher Sulikowski, Darren Sultan, Fawaz Taylor, Damian John Thornley, Lilly Jasmine Timmes, Erin Margaret Vahedi, Mohammad Veale, Warrick Villella, Zane Wagg, Natalie Dianne West, Jordan Wilson, Brian Jeffrey Yasar, Ceylan Zahra, Alfred Zhou, Shirley Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, December 4 14 Equity Pty Ltd Abdulmaseh, Rami Agirkan, Ferhat Albosweilem, Shurooq Alsekmani, Mireille Arslan, Sultan Austin, Alkira Axiak, Tarrus Baycan, Aylin Boone, Dylan Paul Bottomley, Brett Brown, Eric
Canzoneri, Danny Chakkauakkal, Shajin Chandra, Sanjeet Chebbo, Ahmed Chebbo, Mokhtar Ciantar, Kristopher Cilia, Frank Clark, Kane Clifton, Michaela Curina, Serina D'angelo, Paul Davoodi, Hamlet Dimovski, Cooper Izak Dogar, Hassan Abbas Duckworth, Aerin El Lilly, Hassan El-Assaad, Riad El-Massri, Omar Englezakis, Dylan Erdogan, Ayla Faid, Mutaz Foley, Adam David Forte, Jordan Fraser, Ebony Frendo, David Troy Gelov, Christopher Gold Build Pty Ltd Gotzamanis, Angela Grant, John Green, Daniel Grima, Mason Hatim-Karem, Mohammed Hurst, Pamela Hyatt, Rodney James Jarvie, Jack Johnson-Portelli, Joseph Kabiotis, Angelina Kargar, Iman Karki, Nijan Karnaris, Theofanis Kassem, Ali Kemal, Jade Kemp, Timothy Khatri, Sabin Khodar, Gesnic Khodar, Gina Khodr, Walid Kingley, Wesley Koksal, Gurkan Kurul, Eray Lahoud, Joe Lambert, Tarryn Alice Limbourne Group Pty Ltd Marks, Louise Martinez, Alex Matteis, Toni Mayberry, James Mazloum, Wajih Mea Glenroy Pty Ltd Micallef, Manny Middleton, Jordan Mitchener, Jacob Mokalei, Emma Moohan, Christopher Moorthy, Ghauthaman Munir, Sunia Nguyen, Chanh Nik Ahamad, Nik Asmawati Noble, Michaela Nomarhas, Tasi Noonan, Peta Omnia Homes Pty Ltd Oueida, Ahmad Ozmen Homes Pty Ltd Padua, Dexter Patel, Yash Pearce, Ronald Perkins, Jay Peterson, Shanae Pitruzzello, Sebastian Plonsker, Roland Plumridge, Leigh Robert Prakash, Ranveer Rashoo, Paul Rees, Daniel Robert Roche, David Rushton, Joshua Sabri, Auker Faiz Shafiq, Muhammad Mohsin Sheharyar, Ali Siddique, Jawad Siddiqui, Ahmad Silva, Michael Simpson, Maureen Frances Simpson, Paul Andrew Singh, Amandeep Singh, Ripudaman Sirin, Cagdas Sleight, Ross Smith, Amelia Southbourne Homes Pty Ltd Sterling, Andrew Sufyan, Muhammad Taha, Khaled Taleb, Ali Taleb, Shimaa Thornhill, Ashleigh Timiy, Ali Al Tran, Nhut Trapalis, Nickolaos Truland Constructions Pty Ltd Tu, Nhan Turksen, Erdem Ucvet, Ekrem Vigilante, Glen Vk Constructions Australia Pty Ltd Wardan, Michael Whelan, Cory Williams, Kristal Wood, Joshua Scott Youhana, Fredi Younes, George Youssef, Ossama Magdy Zakhour, Nick Zeleke, Kennaw Zirpoli, Matthew
‘Well received’
■ A primary care centre at Forest Hill has been well received, acccrding to Box Hill MLA Paul Hamer.
“I know it is in the member for Glen Waverley’s area, but it is very close to my area – has been very well received,” Mr Hamer said.
“Having that clinic available particularly out of standard hours into the evening and on weekends, it has certainly been a centre that I have frequented.
It is amazing how often you have a family member who gets sick at a time when you just cannot get into a GP because the GPs are closed,” Mr Hamer said.
Park Orchards buy
■ Manningham Council has signed the contract to purchase 576-578 Park Rd, Park Orchards, as part of its planning for a new Park Orchards Community House and Learning Centre.
Discussions have already commenced for the replacement of this popular neighbourhood house.
Manningham Mayor, Cr Deirdre Diamante, said the existing community house needs replacing to bring programs and services together.
"The Community House is widely used and offers a variety of programs and services in learning, fitness and art for all ages, and includes a well-loved childcare facility.
“The current building is coming to the end of its useful life, has limited accessibility and is too small to cater to all programs.
“These limitations have resulted in programs moving to different locations and spread across multiple local venues.
“By bringing these programs together into one building with better access and more space, we can improve efficiency and better support the community’s growing needs,” Cr Diamante said.
Classifieds 9489 2222
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Gas Five burner. Needs clean. New ignition assembly and gas tanks. Both full. VGC. $150. Pascoe Vale. 0419 138 356. VV-YY
BED ENSEMBLE. Single. King Coil. With trundle. EC. $220. Frankston. 0421 461 377. VV-YY
BEDHEAD/BOOK SHELF. Single, for child’s room. Built-in light. Solid yimber. GC. $30. Thomastown. 0428 833 398. VV-YY
BUILDER’S ELECTRICAL POLE. Timber pole with metal power box. $180. Murrindindi area. 0418 564 174. VV-YY
Charolais Cross Cows beef breed with Speckle Park calves at foot. Beautiful outfits. Very quiet. Can deliver. $1650 each. Yarra Valley. 0418 342 848. TT-XX
CAMPER TRAILER. Tru Blu. Heavy Duty. All terrain. 12V accessory outlet plus slide out kitchen. Fully registered. VGC. $4300. Frankston. 0421 461 377. VV-YY
DOG KENNELS. Hard plastic. 1 large, 1 med. VGC. $50 for both. Yarck. 0414 718 812. VV-YY
ENCYCLOPEDIA. World Book. Complete set. Plus World Book Dictonary. VGC. $80. Frankston. 0421 461 377. VV-YY
FIRE SCREEN. 1200mm x 800mm. Plus complete set of fireside tools and stand. EC. $75. Mount Martha. 0438 093 869. VV-YY
The final print issue of The Local Paper for 2024 will be published on Wednesday, December 11. The first issue for 2025 will be on Wednesday, February 5.
GUITAR. Lindsay. Valued at $1500. Sell up to $1000. GC. North Dandenong. 9794 6996. VV-YY
LAURA ASHLEY Cotton Queen Coverlet Set. Size: 220cm x 240cm, plus 2 pillowcases, blue, with small white stripes. Never used. EC. $50. Ashburton. 9885 2203. VV-YY
2 BEDROOM Self-Contained, in small apartment. Kitchen, bathroom, separate toilets. Lounge room. Animal friendly. Close to train station, bus, all shops. $250 per week. Bond upfront. South Morang. 0408 885 413. VV-YY
LOOKING for a green thum person who enjoys gardening. My front yard has been taken over by weeds. Pruning needs to be done and some light tree branches to be chopped. Not looking for gardener. Balwyn North. 0425 889 747. VV-YY
SEWING MACHINE REPAIRER. For two sewing machines. One is a domestic Singer, the second is an industrial Jenome. Rosanna. 9455 1015. VV-YY
Public Notice of Praecipe Tacit Acceptance and Reconveyance
Private sellers can list non-commercial items, without any advertising costs. Deadline: 4pm Fridays.
Classified ads are available each issue in The Local Paper, which is published on Wednesdays, February-December (with the exception of Easter Wednesday). All Classified Ads appear in the print and online editions. It is important to check your advertisement is correct on the first day it appears. While every care is taken to ensure your advertisement is correct, errors can occur. If this happens to your ad please contact us the first day your advertisement appears and we will be happy to correct it as soon as we can.
Land Acquisition and Compensation Act 1986 Notice of Acquisition Compulsory Acquisition of Interest in Land
Regulation 16
The South Gippsland Region Water Corporation (ABN 40 349 066 713) (South Gippsland Water) declares that by this notice it acquires the following interest in the land described as 215 Ruby-Fairbank Road, Ruby, Victoria 3953, being part of the land described as Lot 2 on Plan of Subdivision LP218413A and contained in Certificate of Title Volume 10057 Folio 862:
An easement for water supply purposes over that part of the land shown as ‘E-1’ on the plan for creation of easement (Surveyor’s File Ref: 2023110 COE(a) v01) depicted below in accordance with the rights and obligations set out in Memorandum of Common Provisions number AA3127.
Interests Acquired: that of Willem Johannes Andreas Verboon and all other interests. The acquisition is made pursuant to section 130 of the Water Act 1989 for the purpose of the Leongatha Raw Water Pipeline Renewal.
A notice of intention to acquire the interest in the land was served on 2 August 2024. Published with the authority of South Gippsland Water.
For and on behalf of South Gippsland Water
Signed: MARK LYNCH
Name: Mark Lynch
General Manager Infrastructure and Planning
South Gippsland Water
Date21 October 2024
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