The Local Paper. Northern Suburbs Edition. Wed., May 1, 2024

■ Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate missing man Peter. The 53-year-old was last seen leaving his workplace in Reservoir on the evening of April 14.

Police and family have concerns for Peter’s welfare due to his disappearance being out of character.

Peter is described as Caucasian, 173cm tall, with dark shoulder length hair, a medium build, and multiple earrings in each ear.

Peter drives a silver Toyota Yaris bearing registration 1MP3GF, and it is believed he may be travelling in this vehicle.

Police have released an image of Peter in the hope that someone can provide information on his current whereabouts.

Anyone who sights Peter is urged to contact the Boroondara Police Station on 8851 1111.

● ● ● ● Peter: last seen at Summerhill.

✖The Briar Hill op shop run by the Salvation Army will be closing in June, says resident Liz Volpe. “It is a legacy and a community that myself and my family will miss. I believe they have operated for over 25 years and the citizens who run the shop every week are always cheerful, helpful and loved by all,” Ms Volpe said.

● ● ● ● Lydia Wilson

✔Residents in the City of Whittlesea are invited to provide feedback on the draft of a new Integrated Transport Plan that will support the community to have greater choice and ease in how they move around. The draft Integrated Transport Plan was endorsed for community consultation at the Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 16 . It will be the guiding document to help shape transport planning in the City for the next 10 years. The draft plan includes walking and cycling, public transport, road transport, road safety and freight movements.

City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said the draft plan aimed to address community need. “Through this plan we have set our transport priorities, and it will enable us to advocate to address the transport challenges we face. We know that our community is growing and the need for sustainable, accessible, safe and reliable transport options is also growing. Thank you to all who provided us with insights in the early stage of developing this plan. Now we invite you to share your thoughts on the draft plan.”

✔A draft master plan for V.R. Michael Reserve in Lalor was endorsed for community consultation at the Whittlesea Council Meeting on Tuesday, Apr. 16. “ The proposed upgrades outlined in the draft master plan will enhance the overall character of the reserve providing better park facilities, safe and diverse play experiences, increased recreational opportunities.”

✖A 27-year-old woman has been caught allegedly three times over the limit in Wallan. Police initially observed a Mercedes in a service station car park about 1.30am on ANZAC Day (Thu., Apr. 25) and after conducting checks on the car, found that the vehicle was unregistered. Officers spoke to the driver, who smelt strongly of alcohol, and observed an unrestrained toddler in a car seat which was also not fitted to the vehicle. The woman accompanied Police for an evidentiary breath test where she returned an alleged reading of 0.155, more than three times the legal limit. The woman had her car impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1200, and her licence immediately suspended for a period of 12 months. She is expected to be charged on summons with traffic offences.

LOCAL MAN JAILED OVER CHILD ABUSE OFFENCES

■ A Whittlesea man has been sentenced to three years and 10 months imprisonment for significant child abuse offences.

The man, 58, was sentenced in the County Court, Melbourne, on Friday, Apr. 19, after pleading guilty to a total of 27 child abuse related-offences.

Police had identified that the man was in possession of two internet-enabled electronic devices that he did not declare under his bail conditions after pleading not guilty to five child abuse related offences in September, 2022.

The Victorian Joint Anti-Child Exploitation team, comprising of Australian Federal Police and Victoria Police members, executed a search warrant at the man’s Whittlesea home on March 29 last year, where the electronic devices were located and seized.

The devices contained child abuse material and thousands of sexually explicit messages between the man and multiple unidentified children between November 4, 2022, and March 29, 2023.

In these online messages, Police identified that the man was conversing with multiple children overseas with intent to engage in sexual abuse activity.

The man was subsequently arrested and charged.

On February 8, 2024, he pleaded guilty to the following offences:

■ Thirteen counts of grooming a person to make it easier to engage in sexual activity with a child -outside Australia,

■ Four counts of procuring a child to engage in sexual activity outside Australia,

■ Two counts of using a carriage service to solicit child abuse material,

■ Two counts of using a carriage service to transmit child abuse material,

■ Two counts of using a carriage service to solicit and transmit child abuse material,

■ Two counts of using a carriage service to solicit and transmit child abuse material, and cause child abuse material to be transmitted, Two counts of possessing or controlling child abuse material obtained or accessed using a carriage service.

He was sentenced to three years and 10 months imprisonment with a non-parole period of two years and eight months.

AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Jarrod Ragg said the sentencing outcome demonstrated the persistent work of the Victorian Joint Anti-Child Exploitation Team and its commitment to prosecuting criminals responsible for harming children.

“Our officers work tirelessly with partners to identify and prosecute anyone who seeks to sexually abuse and harm children, no matter where they are in the world,” Det-Act-Supt Ragg said.

“We all have the same dedication to protecting children who do not have the means or mechanism to defend themselves.

“This sentencing outcome should serve as yet another serious warning that law enforcement has zero tolerance for child exploitation and child sexual abuse in any form.”

The AFP and its partners are committed to stopping child exploitation and abuse and the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation is driving a collaborative national approach to combatting child abuse.

The ACCCE brings together specialist expertise and skills in a central hub, supporting investigations into online child sexual exploitation and developing prevention strategies focused on creating a safer online environment.

Members of the public who have information about people involved in child abuse are urged to contact the ACCCE

Research conducted by the ACCCE in 2020 revealed only about half of parents talked to their children about online safety.

Advice and support for parents and carers about how they can help protect children online can be found at thinkuknow. an AFP-led education program designed to prevent online child sexual exploitation.

Sexual assault

■ Professional Standards Command detectives have charged a senior constable following an internal investigation.

The 51-year-old man, from Transit and Public Safety Command, has been charged with five counts of sexual assault against two women. The incidents were alleged to have occurred in September last year while the officer, who was upgraded to sergeant at the time, was off-duty.

NORTHERN SUBURBS EDITION

55 YEARS AS NEWSMAN

IN MELBOURNE’S NORTH

In September 1969, Ash Long , 12, became a newsboy for the new Melbourne Sunday Observer newspaper in the Preston-Reservoir area.

Some 55 years on, in 2024, Ash Long continues his lifetime of community service, as Publisher of The Local Paper group, which has localised newspapers across 40 local government areas covering all Melbourne suburbs, the Mornington Peninsula and beyond.

The northern suburbs is in his DNA. Born in Ivanhoe, started school at East Reservoir, lived in Thornbury and Eltham.

As a teenager, Ash Long worked in newspaper production and distribution, then widened his experience as an editorial ‘stringer’ for the Leader group.

He furthered his career as Regional Manager for the Brunswick, Coburg, Diamond Valley, Doncaster-Templestowe, Heidelberg, Northcote, Preston-Reservoir and Whittlesea area newspapers.

He was involved with the Australian Suburban Newspapers’ Association, later becoming a National Judge.

In 1983, he branched out on his own, developing newspapers across Victoria.

Ash Long at the start of his newspaper career in 1969. In the intervening years, there have been successes (and a few stumbles!)

In 2009, he founded The Phoenix newspaper for the Black Saturday bushfire communities. In this project, $1.3 million worth of advertising was donated free for local businesses to get back on their feet.

In 2002, Long reinvograted the Melbourne Observer newspaper. It continues today as a free section within all editions of The Local Paper.

There have been other involvements with TV, radio and online projects.

Decades on, Ash Long and his team remain committed to providing the best possible service to readers and clients.

Det. Acting Supt. Jarrod Ragg Photo courtesy News Ltd.

■ Yarrambat pilot Greig Wanless and arts identity Kate Callingham were killed in an air crash at Mount Beauty on Saturday (Apr. 27).

It is believed the pair were flying over Embankment Drive when the aircraft crashed about 1.45pm. Both died at the scene. The pair were ● ● Greig Wanless the only occupants of the aircraft. Police will prepare a report for the Coroner.

The family friends were flying over Mount Beauty in a powered glider to scatter the ashes of Callingham's late father, who was also Wanless's best friend.

The aircraft was just short of the runway when it suddenly nose-dived at 300 feet, killing both passenger and pilot.

"I was playing golf and I saw it over the trees... going in circles. a bit lower than usual," witness Mitch McDermott told 9News Callingham leaves behind a five-month old baby. Her friends and family had arrived at Mount Beauty on Friday to farewell her father.

● Stephanie Powell, back left (The Baker’s Wife), Tyson Legg, back right (The Baker), Emillie King (Little Red Riding Hood), Mary McCarthy (Cinderella) and Tim Maguire (Jack) at front. Photo: Gavin D. Andrew

■ Williamstown Musical Theatre Company presents James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim's Into the Woods at the Centenary Theatre from May 3-18.

Favourite storybook characters come together for a timeless, yet relevant, piece ... and a rare modern classic.

Cinderella, Prince Charming, Rapunzel, the Baker and his Wife, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk and the Witch. Paths cross and destinies intertwine as they seek their wishes, fortunes and desires. But not all wishes come with a 'happily ever after'.

As the consequences of their actions return to haunt them, they are forced to head Into the Woods once more.

Into the Woods is directed by Shaun Kingma, with musical direction by Daniel Heskett and movement by Ashley Tynan.

Performance Details: May 3-18

Venue: Centenary Theatre, 71 Railway Place, Williamstown.

Bookings: wmtc.org.au

Performance dates and times are as follows: Friday, May 3, 7.30pm.

- Cheryl Threadgold

Greek heritage

■ Poet and rap artist of Greek heritage, Luka Lesson, will present a nationwide tour of his solo theatre show, Agapi and Other Kinds of Love.

The show draws on the artistry of poetry and hip-hop to delve into the depths of Ancient Greek types of love and will be performed at Melbourne's Athenaeum Theatre on May 24 at pm

The form and structure of the production hark back to the days of Homer and Sappho, where poetry and performance were intertwined. Luka brings the legacy of his ancestors to life in a contemporary context in the process.

Luka Lesson has gained recognition for his ability to blend spoken word poetry and hip-hop, into storytelling.

With Agapi and Other Kinds of Love, Luka showcases his deep understanding of ancient wisdom and his commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.

Through his performance, he invites audiences to embark on a journey that not only celebrates his Greek heritage but also highlights the universal themes of love, politics, and social change.

Performance Details: May 24 at 7pm

Venue: Athenaeum Theatre, 188 Collins St, Melbourne.

Bookings: Ticketmaster - Cheryl Threadgold

Top podcast

■ Hamish and Andy is once again Australia’s favourite podcast with the pair reclaiming their spot as the nation’s top podcast, reaching almost 845,000 listeners in March.

- Greg Newman

VALE FRANK VAN STRATEN

■ Frank Van Straten AM, highly respected Australian performing arts historian, author, museum director/curator, broadcaster and friend to many, passed away peacefully at Cabrini Hospital on April 19, with Adrian Turley, his partner of 54 years, by his side.

The first archivist at Arts Centre Melbourne's the Australian Performing Arts Museum, Frank became director from 1984 to 1993.

Also a broadcaster, between 1986 and 2001, Frank presented ABC Radio's Nostalgia Show In 2007, he was appointed Live Performance Australia's Official Historian, researching and writing LPA's Hall of Fame, and compiling the 'In Memoriam' segments for the annual Helpmann Awards.

Frank was a founding member of Theatre Heritage Australia, patron of the Cinema and Theatre Historical Society (Victoria) and the John Truscott Design Foundation Inc., a Life Member of the National Trust (Victoria) and served on the board of the National Theatre and the judging panels of the Green Room and Helpmann Awards.

I personally experienced Frank's kindness in 2015 when commencing research for a PhD thesis on the history and culture of amateur theatre in Victoria.

Frank immediately offered to share knowledge or photos if needed, and not only kindly wrote the Foreword to my 2020 book In The Name Of Theatre, but launched the book at a public online event during lockdown.

The Frank Van Straten Fellowship program now generously offers an annual $15,000 stipend to researchers to tell stories from the Australian Performing Arts Collection through research and/or creative works that will resonate with diverse audiences.

Some titles from Frank’s wonderful theatrical history books include: Her Majesty's Theatre - Melbourne - The Shows, the Stars; The Stories, National Treasure: The Story of Gertrude Johnson and the National Theatre; Florence Young and the Golden Years of Australian Musical Theatre; Huge Deal: The Fortunes and Follies of Hugh D. McIntosh; Her Majesty’s Pleasure: A Centenary of Celebration for Adelaide’s Theatre of the Stars; Tivoli; The Regent Theatre: Melbourne’s Palace of Dreams; Bourke Street on Saturday Night –Memories of Charlie Fredrickson – The Man Outside Hoyts and Hanky Panky: The Theatrical Escapades of Ernest C Rolls.

More of Frank Van Straten Australian Theatre Stories are available on the Theatre Heritage Australia website: www.theatreheritage australia.org.au

Last year, Frank’s generosity extended beyond the performing arts. Having lived opposite the Royal Botanical Gardens for over 80 years with many happy memories, Frank and Adrian donated $350,000 for a new custom-made gate for the gardens.

Frank Van Straten's magnificent contribution to the Australian performing arts is a splendid cultural legacy for Australian communities. His work will also inspire other theatre historians to continue researching, documenting and preserving precious theatrical history for the communities of today and tomorrow.

Sincere condolences to Adrian

Thank you, Frank Van Straten AM - Cheryl Threadgold

Acting Revolution

■ Acting teacher and TV director Richard Sarrell celebrated the launch of his innovative book Acting Revolution with 55 friends and actors at the City of Melbourne Bowls Club in the Flagstaff Gardens.

Richard's interest in acting was inspired 40 years ago when attending a 'brilliant' training session for directors in the ABC studios in Ripponlea in 1984.

Now a septuagenarian, Richard has published Acting Revolution which rewrites the actor's training process.

Richard has been teaching these revolution-

● ● Frank Van Straten AM ary techniques for 30 years. He says hundreds of actors have tested and refined the concepts, and although he is a television director, Richard says the practicalities of this unique approach work as well on stage as they do on screen.

Stefanie Caccamo, who last year starred in the musical Once at The Comedy Theatre, is a fan. She explained at the book’s launch how the techniques empowered her to capture and hold an audience’s attention while being the only performer onstage.

The techniques for all levels of acting include Conversation Goals (including a new vocabulary based on the analysis of the actual structure of conversations), Character Creation (which is clarified for actors to change a character's nature in 10 seconds for maximum flexibility), Preparing a Difficult Scene (a logical approach to preparing scenes where circumstances are complicated) and Checklists (practical processes to prepare for a performance).

Richard says: 'This logical and refreshing approach to explaining acting has dragged the understanding of the acting process into the 21stcentury.'

Acting Revolution is available on Amazon as a colour or black-and-white paperback and eBook.

- Cheryl Threadgold

Media Flashes

■ Abe Maddison has moved on from his position as a Sub-Editor at Sunraysia Daily, and has started as AAP's South Australian correspondent.

■ Tom Flanagan is now the Homepage and Live Editor for Yahoo News Australia. He picks up the role after two years as Associate News Editor.

■ Mark Hyland will hang up his headphones and leave the Bay 93.9 brekfast show. Mark has been with Grant Broadcasters for more than 28 years.

● ● Lauren Lee Innis-Youren (Lilli Vanessi/Katherine) and Ian Woodford (Fred Graham/Petruccio) in Kiss Me, Kate.

■ Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria presents the musical comedy Kiss Me, Kate at the Ian Potter Centre for the Arts, Monash University, Clayton, from May 2-5.

With music by Cole Porter and book by Sam and Bella Spewack, this Tony Award winning musical comedy is a play within a play, where passions run high as leading lady, Lily Vanessi and her ex-husband, actor/director Fred Graham, clash onstage and off in a musical production of Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew.

On opening night, the rekindling of their affection is complicated by misguided flirtations and romantic discord, gambling debts, singing gangers and other enjoyable backstage shenanigans.

Performance Season: May 2-4 at 7.30pm, May 4 and 5 at 2pm Venue: Ian Potter Centre for the Arts, Monash University, 48 Exhibition Walk, Clayton.

Bookings: gsov.org.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

The King’s Player

■ Imagine a one-man Monty Python’s Flying Circus, a Terry Gilliam animation brought to life.

This is what you get when Tref Gare bursts onto the stage in his one-man show, The King’s Player.

Set in the Middle Ages, with Elsinore Castle as the backdrop and the plague as a grim reality, a traveloling jester steps in, “a vagabond minstrel from Milton Keynes”, juggling balls and hoping to earn his next meal.

Having forsaken the family business of blacksmithing for a career in show business and ripe for a lucky break, the jester accepts an invitation to perform in a play for the King and Queen.

Recruited by the Prince of Denmark, a character more like an English public schoolboy sporting a non-rhotic, soft “r,” Hamlet proposes a performance of The Murder of Gonzago.

Unbeknownst to the jester, a ghostly figure of the former King of Denmark haunts the castle battlements, urging his son Hamlet to avenge his murder by killing the new king.

However, in a twist of fate, it is not Hamlet who receives this chilling message but our unsuspecting jester.

In another twist, a witch from Macbeth has stumbled into the action, double-doubling and toiling over a bubbling cauldron.

Even the odd line from other works, such as Dylan Thomas’s “slow black, blue-black” Milk Wood sky, infuses the dialogue.

Jen Ellis Steven's backdrop, emulating a cartoon version of the Bayeux tapestry, is filled with more “Easter eggs” (hidden messages to the uninitiated).

Fun and frenetic, this show is a feast and an acting masterclass, with Gare playing all 16 characters, effortlessly melding narration, mime, songs, asides to the audience, and much more.

- Review by Kathryn Keeble

● ● ● ● Author Richard Sarrell with actor Simone Ball Santamaria at the launch of his book Acting Revolution.

WESTERN SUBURBS

Robberies arrest

■ Wyndham Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man following a series of alleged armed robberies in Melbourne’s western suburbs.

A 30-year-old Point Cook man was arrested in Point Cook this on Friday afternoon (Apr. 26).

He has been charged with armed robbery (x2), attempted armed robbery (x2) and prohibited person possess imitation firearm (x3).

The charges follow four alleged incidents:

■ A man entered a store on Duncans Rd in Werribee South, armed with a weapon, about 2pm on Monday, April 15. He allegedly made demands for cash before the shop keeper declined and chased the man out of the store.

■ It is alleged a man attended a service station on Point Cook Rd in Point Cook and threatened the shop attendant with a firearm, demanding cash about 4am on Tuesday, April 23. The attendant handed over the money and the man fled in a vehicle.

■ The man allegedly threatened a worker at a fast-food restaurant on the corner of Morris and Heaths Rds in Hoppers Crossing about 3.30am on April 23. He demanded cash and fled empty-handed.

■ The man allegedly threatened a worker at a business in Brooklyn at about 9pm on Wednesday, April 24. He demanded cash and the worker handed over the money before the man fled in a vehicle.

The Point Cook man was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court

EAST DONCASTER

Third man nabbed

■ Detectives from Manningham Crime Investigation Unit have charged a third man following an alleged home invasion in East Doncaster on Wednesday, April 10.

It is alleged three male offenders falsely claiming to be police pushed their way into a property on Red Hill Terrace about 7.50pm.

HELLS ANGELS RUN BLITZ

■ A man has been charged, a vehicle seized and more than $80,000 in Sheriff’s Office warrants executed following a run through Melbourne’s outer northern suburbs by the Hells Angels Outlaw Motorcycle Gang.

The VIPER and Echo taskforces and police from North West Metro Region intercepted around 22 riders at a vehicle checkpoint in Campbellfield on Thursday, April 25.

Some 29 OMCG members and associates were checked, and as a result:

■ A 49-year-old Pakenham man was charged with possess drug of dependence,

■ 24 preliminary breath tests were conducted,

■ Two unroadworthy notices were issued,

■ One Firearm Prohibition Order compliance search was conducted,

■ Two motorcycles were issued with unroadworthy notices, and

■ Nine Environmental Protection Agency notices were issued.

The 49-year-old Pakenham man, a patched members of the Hells Angels OMCG , was bailed to appear at Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court on September 3.

Some 17 people with more than 221 outstanding warrants worth more than $230,000 were dealt with, including service of seven day notices which will be followed up by the Sheriff

Statewide Observer

One vehicle belonging to a member of the Rebels OMCG, driven by a Hells Angels OMCG associate was detained.

An additional two vehicles were clamped by the Sheriff’s Office

Victoria Police will continue to work with other law enforcement agencies as part of a national approach to OMCG enforcement.

Detective Inspector Craig Darlow, VIPER Taskforce,

said: “The collaborative effort with our partner agencies ensures we are able to relentlessly disrupt these gangs to further prevent and respond to organised crime in our state.

“Our collective commitment to make Victoria safer and hold criminal groups to account is unwavering.”

Anyone with information about OMCG activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www. crimestoppers.com.au

ARCADIA

Fatality probed

■ Police are investigating a fatal crash in Arcadia on Friday afternoon (Apr. 26).

It is understood a car crashed into a tree on the Goulburn Valley Hwy, near Dawson Rd, about 12.50pm.

The male driver of the car, died at the scene. Exact circumstances surrounding the crash are being investigated.

COBRAM

Death investigation

■ Cobram Crime Investigation Unit detectives are continuing to investigate the death of a 49-year-old woman in Cobram.

A postmortem was conducted and at this stage, the cause of death has been unable to be determined.

Detectives will await the results of further testing and continue with their investigation. Currently, a 39-year-old man has been charged with intentionally cause injury, recklessly cause injury, common law assault, aggravated assault of a female and unlawful assault.

He faced court on Friday morning (Apr. 26) and was further remanded to appear again at Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on May 21.

ECHUCA

5 vehicles stolen

■ Detectives from Campaspe Crime Investigation Unit are appealing for information after five cars were stolen from a not-forprofit community organisation in Echuca Police have been told unknown offenders gained access to the property on Hare St between 5.30pm on Wednesday, April 24, and 8am on Friday, April 26.

It is believed the offenders entered through the rear door and stole six car keys, mobile phone, and a laptop. The vehicles are used by the organisation to assist people in the community who require assistance.

Melbourne

The Local Paper

Online weekly. Print copies fortnightly.

In association with the Established September 14, 1969

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

ABOUT US

Incorporating the traditions of

the Evelyn Observer (Est. 1873), Northcote Budget (Est. 1888), Heidelberg City News (Est. 1897), Preston Post (Est. 1888), Whittlesea Post (Est. 1935), Diamond Valley News (Est. 1959), Diamond ValleyWhittlesea Advertiser (Est. 1995).

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

• Northcote Budget

• Preston Post-Reservoir Time

• Whittlesea Post

• Heidelberger

• Diamond Valley News

CONTACT US

Phone: 1800 231 311, 9489 2222, 9439 9927, 0450 399 932, 5797 2656.

Reg. Office: 30 Glen Gully Rd, Eltham, Vic 3095 (same address for 30 years)

Mail: PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095

Web: www.LocalPaper.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

www.LocalMedia.com.au

E-Mail: Editor@LocalPaper.com.au

Editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au

Editor@LocalMedia.com.au

Ash on Wednesday

Youth leaders welcomed

■ Nillumbik Shire’s new Youth Mayor, Orianna Edmond s, and Youth Deputy Mayor, Niamh Coffey, have been congratulated by the Shire.

The Youth Council also welcomed three new members – Kai Biviano, Samuel Kelso and Emmika Kent - at its meeting on Monday, April 8.

The Youth Council is a formal advisory committee of Nillumbik Council and is made up of 15 young people aged 15-25 in Nillumbik.

The group provides a voice for young people in Nillumbik and advocates on their behalf on major issues, projects and initiatives.

Orianna Edmonds was previously the Youth Council’s Deputy Mayor and is passionate about youth work, mental health and the environment.

Local Theatre

Entertainment

The Arts

Matt Bissett-Johnson, Cartoonist Peter Kemp, Art Rob Foenander, Music

Editor: Ash Long

Features Editor: Peter Mac

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

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

Logistics: Peter Dodd, Tim Granvillani, Erica Koldinsky

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

Read online editions at: www.LocalPaper.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Have a free copy of the online edition sent to your email address each week: www.FreePaper.com.au

Long Shots

A resident of St Andrews, Orianna runs her own business, is a member of the Nillumbik Economic Development Board, Young Farmers Council for Agriculture Victoria and volunteers for other community organisations.

“My passion for this beautiful Shire is great and I love this part of the world, especially the land, so protecting our climate and environment, including animals and wildlife is very important to me,” Orianna said.

“Losing our home and everything in the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires, and experiencing challenging times in life, has made me extremely passionate about mental health.

“As young people,

with Ash Long, Editor

Celebrating 55 years in local media

Winner, Best Local Reporting Award Victoria-wide Westpac Award

Direct: 0450 399 932

E: editor@LocalPaper.com.au

Web: www.LocalPaper.com.au

Personal: www.AshLong.com.au

“For the cause that lacks assistance, ‘Gainst the wrongs that need resistance For the future in the distance, And the good that we can do”

we are the upcoming leaders and change makers, ready to shape a new future and I look forward to doing this with the Youth Council.”

Niamh Coffey, of Eltham North , has been a member of the Youth Council for the past three years and is also a member of the Eltham Youth Council, their school Council, is a school captain, and leads the school’s Feminist Collective

In March, they were the recipient of a Young Women LeaderAward for gender equity.

“I absolutely love the work we do here and I’m really passionate about aiding our local community,” Niamh said.

Niamh said they were particularly focused on social equity, aiming to provide inclusive opportunities and platforms to uplift the voices of minority groups within the community.

Local Photo Flashback

Artist in residence

■ Nillumbik artists are encouraged to apply for the 2024-25 Nillumbik Artist in Residence Program.

The program is open to individual artists and small artist groups from visual arts, literary arts, and performing arts or cross-disciplinary arts practice across these fields. The Young Performing Artist Residency is open to artists aged 18 to 25.

Nillumbik Deputy Mayor Cr Karen Egan said that the program has been developed as part of Council’s Arts and Culture Strategy goal to create a visible and supported creative community.

“We are committed to offering artist residency programs in inspiring places, in support of emerging and established artists,” Cr Egan said.

The 2024-25 Nillumbik Artist in Residence Program has been developed to create artist residencies for local creatives to explore their practice in an environment removed from the distractions of everyday lifeactivities related to the residency.

- Contributed

The Local Paper

Online weekly. Print copies fortnightly.

In association with the Established September 14, 1969

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

BANYULE

Incorporating the traditions of the Heidelberg City News (Est. Mar. 26, 1897), Heidelberger (Est. Nov. 12, 1958) and Evelyn Observer (Est. Oct. 31, 1873). The Heidelberger area comprises Bellfield, Darebin, Eaglemont, Heidelberg, Heidelberg Heights, Heidelberg West, Ivanhoe, Ivanhoe East, Macleod, Rosanna, Watsonia, Viewbank and Yallambie. Banyule is home to more than 121,865 people, living in approximately 50,223 homes.

DAREBIN

NORTHERN

Incorporating the traditions of the Preston Post (Est. 1888) and the Reservoir Times (Est. 1955) Preston Post-Reservoir Times area comprises Keon Park, Kingsbury, Northland, Preston, Preston East, Preston West, Regent, Reservoir, Reservoir East, Reservoir West. The City of Darebin is home to more than 146,719 people, living in approximately 63,562 homes.

SOUTHERN

Incorporating the traditions of the Northcote Budget (Est. 1888) Northcote Budget area comprises Alphington, Clifton Hill, Collingwood, Croxton, Dennis, Fairfield, Fitzroy, Fitzroy North, Merri, Northcote, Thornbury and Westgarth. The City of Darebin is home to more than 146,719 people, living in approximately 63,562 homes.

NILLUMBIK

Incorporating the traditions of the Heidelberg City News (Est. Mar. 26, 1897), Diamond Valley News (Est. 1959) Evelyn Observer (Est. Oct. 31, 1873), and Eltham & Whittlesea Shires Advertiser The Diamond Valley News area comprises Briar Hill, Eltham, Greensborough, Lower Plenty, Montmorency and St Helena. Nillumbik Shire is home to more than 64,659 people, living in approximately 21,753 homes.

WHITTLESEA

Incorporating the traditions of the Whittlesea Post (Est. 1935), Whittlesea Chronicle, Whittlesea Advertiser, and Eltham & Whittlesea Shires Advertiser, Evelyn Observer (Est. Oct. 31, 1873).

Whittlesea Post area comprises Bundoora, Epping, Epping North, Lalor, Mill Park, Thomastown, South Morang, Wollert. The City of Whittlesea is home to more than 197,491 people, living in approximately 71,014 homes.

Read online editions at: www.LocalPaper.com.au www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Have

Ryan, Horse Racing

Baker, Harness Racing

● ● ● ● Deputy Youth Mayor Niamh Coffey, Nillumbik Shire Council Deputy Mayor Cr Karen Egan and Youth Mayor Orianna Edmonds.

Shows

■ Williamstown Little Theatre: The Memory of Water (by Shelagh Stevenson) April 17 – May 4 at 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Brett Turner. Bookings: wlt.org.au

■ The Basin Theatre Company: Berlin (by Joanna Murray-Smith) Until April 28 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Sharon Maine. Bookings: thebasintheatre.org.au

■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Still Alice (adapted by Christine Mary Dunford. From the book by Lisa Genova) Until May 4 at The Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre, 39-41 Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Alan Burrows. Bookings: www.lilydaleatc.com Phone: 9735 1777.

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Berlin (by Joanna Murray-Smith) Until May 4 at Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Natasha Boyd. Bookings: htc.org.au

Geelong Repertory Theatre: Home I’m Darling (by Laura Wade) Until May 4 at the Woodbin Theatre, 15 Coronation St., Geelong West. Director: Robyn Birrell. Bookings: Geelong Arts Centre 1300 251 200 geelongartscentre.org.au

■ Off the Leash Theatre Productions: The Heartbreak Choir (by Aidan Fennessy) Until April 27 at the West Gippsland Arts Centre, Cnr Albert and Smith Sts., Warragul and Algie Hall, 213 Main Neerim Rd., Neerim Suth. Director: Kellie Bray. Bookings: 0407 444 430

■ Eltham Little Theatre: The Peppercorn Tree (by Alison Campbell Rate) Until May 4 at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Rd., Research. Director: Roderick Chappel. Bookings: elthamlittletheatre.org.au

Synchronicity Performing Arts: The 39 Steps (Adapted by Patrick Barlow from the novel by John Buchan) Until May 4 at The Engine Room 56 View St., Bendigo. Director: Wendy Collishaw. Bookings: gotix.com

■ Malvern Theatre Company: The Glass Menagerie (by Tennessee Williams) Until May 11 at 29a Burke Rd., Malvern. Director: Barry O’Neill. Bookings: malverntheatre. com.au

■ F.A.M.D.A. Inc: The Architect (by Aiden Fennessey) Until May 5 at the Foster War Memorial Arts Centre, 79 Main St., Foster. Director: Bernadette Grainger. Bookings: famda.org.au

■ Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria (GSOV): Kiss Me, Kate, May 2 – 5 at The Ian Potter Centre for the Arts, 48 Exhibition Walk, Monash University. Director: Patrick Hill; Musical Director: Trevor Henley; Choreographer: Denique Adlam. Bookings: gsov.org.au

■ Bairnsdale Production Line Theatre Company: Anything Goes May 3 – 19 at Forge Theatre and Arts Hub, Bairnsdale. Director: Beverley Campbell. Bookings: www.eastgippsland.vic.gov.au

■ Williamstown Musical Theatre Company (WMTC): May 3 – 18 at Centenary Theatre, 71 Railway Place, Williamstown. Director/ Set Designer: Shaun Kingma; Musical Director: Daniel Heskett; Assistant Director/ Movement: Ashley Tynan. Bookings: wmtc.org.au

■ CLOC Music Theatre: Billy Elliott May 10-25 at the National Theatre, St Kilda. CoDirectors: Lynette White and Chris White; Musical Director: David Clausen-Wisken; Choreographer: Lynette White. Bookings: cloc.org.au

■ Peridot Theatre (a co-production with Encore Theatre) (by Harper Lee, dramatized by Christopher Sergel) May 10 – 19 at the Clayton Theatrette, Clayton. Director: Susan Rundle. Bookings: peridot.com.au

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Hearth (by Fleur Murphy) May 10 – 19 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Director: Damian Jones. Bookings: mordialloctheatre.com.au

■ Beaumaris Theatre: Steel Magnolias (by Robert Harling) May 10 – 25 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Debbie Keyt. Bookings: beaumaristheatre. com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

WOMPA AT WYNDHAM

■ The well-appointed Wyndham Cultural Centre was the venue for this year's WOMPA (West of Melbourne Performing Arts) One Act Play Festival.

Artistic Director Alaine Beek said there was a 60 per cent increase in applications for this year's festival, with the theme 'Unexpected Connections'.

Eight finalist original one-act plays offered an interesting array of genres, stories and characters for judges David Tredinnick, Phil Cameron-Smith and Cheryl Threadgold to decide the winners. Judges' Special Mention awards went to actors Souryo Ghosh and Leo Taylor.

Winners of Best Actor awards were Fiona Scarlett , who wrote/directed/performed her monologue titled Shoulda Coulda Woulda, and Jonathan Griffiths who wrote and performed his monologue The Old Man.

Best Production award went to Ganna Ki Kethi, written and performed by Preeti Maharaj and directed by Charlotte Sherlock, and The Old Man won the Best Script award.

The audience-voted People's Choice Awards went to the one-act plays Echoes of Love and Waiting for a Friend

Congratulations to Alaine Beek, Essence Theatre Productions and supporters for presenting this wonderful celebration of creativity and talent.

Berlin

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company presents the romantic thriller Berlin until May 4 at 36 Turnham Ave, Rosanna. Written by Australian contemporary playwright Joanna Murray-Smith and directed by Natasha Boyd, Berlin is set in the present time in a studio-loft in northeast Berlin.

The impressive set depicting Charlotte’s apartment interior makes excellent use of the large Heidelberg Theatre stage – a credit to set designers Pam Neivandt, Natasha Boyd, Doug McNoughton and Owen Evans. A wow factor during the show is the surprise appearance of the bedroom – meticulously timed under Boyd’s direction.

This dialogue-rich two-hander is performed to near-perfection by two fine actors - Julia Lambert as German waitress/student poet Charlotte, and Jeremy Lust as Australian tourist/law school dropout, Tom.

Charlotte and Tom have met in a bar, clicked, and Charlotte, although wary of strangers, brings Tom home to her apartment.

Murray-Smith’s well-crafted dialogue combines with skilled, naturalistic acting from the players, immersing the audience in observing the slow revealing, fascinating process of two strangers becoming acquainted.

The sensual mutual chemistry, exchanged pleasantries and physicality, entice us to believe this newly found relationship will work.

But things change, the mood darkens, and we are jolted into realising that these young people have inherited a past they are unable to relinquish.

Berlin is expertly directed by Natasha Boyd who, with her actors, has seamlessly clinched the transition from romance to thriller.

Just a minor criticism, on opening night, Charlotte’s German accent occasionally muffled clarity of words, but no doubt this is now rectified.

The atmospheric lighting is designed by Michael Rowe and costumes by Maureen McInerney.

Congratulations to Heidelberg Theatre Company, Natasha Boyd and all involved with this outstanding production.

Performance Details: Until May 4 Venue: Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna Bookings: htc.org.au - Review by Cheryl Threadgold

Chrysalis

■ MUST (Monash University Student Theatre) presents Chrysalis from May 7-11 at the MUST Theatre, Monash University, Clayton

This new original contemporary dance work explores the ups and downs of growing up. Each of its six sections convey the struggles of a milestone in a young adult’s life, from birth to late teenage years.

The theme of a carnival, a metaphor for the bold and surprising adventures of our early lives, is woven throughout the piece. More than just a vibrant visual aesthetic, it has inspired the formation of the movement itself.

“We wanted to create a show that mirrors life,” co-creators Su Min Lee and Yasmin Bouzas explain.

“We’d love audiences to come into the theatre and reminisce about their own childhood experiences, and reflect on the pathways that have brought them to where they are now.”

With an original score composed by Sofia Jorgovic and Su Min Lee, Chrysalis is said to 'breathe new life into the meaning of self-reflection'.

“Chrysalis’s choreography accentuates our cast’s unique dance backgrounds,” Yasmin highlights.

The two creators wanted to focus on showcasing the dancers’ skills developed through diverse dance backgrounds including ballet, jazz, hip hop, classic Indian and contemporary.

“The overarching use of contemporary dance allows us to blend different styles of dance into a reflection of each stage of life,” says Su Min Performance Dates: May 7-11, Tues. - Fr.i 7.30pm, Sat .2.30pm and 6.30pm

Post show Q and A with artists and creators: Wednesday May 8 at 8.50pm Bookings: msa.monash.edu/MUST

Tickets: $15 MSA Plus Memb., $17 Conc., $23 Full

Venue: The MUST Theatre - Grnd Flr West, Campus Centre, 21 Chancellors Walk, Monash University, Clayton - Cheryl Threadgold

In The Round

■ The irst concert in the round at Melbourne Synagogue will be held on May 28-29 as part of the Live at the Great Synagogue series with Hungarian virtuoso József Lendvay making his Australian debut.

The concept of doing concerts in the round brings audiences as close to the artists as possible and dissolve the traditional barriers of stage and audience.

The aim is more immersive experience with sensational artists within the stunning acoustics of the Great Synagogue

There will be a grand piano , with the lid off, and the Hungarian star violinist roaming around the stage, able to engage with all the audience.

Founder Vladimir Fanshil will host the concerts. Program: E.Bloch, Baal Shem (scenes from Chassidic life)/ J.Brahms, Hungarian Dances. J.Brahms, Sonata no.3. M.Ravel, Tzigane.

■ British entertainer Noel Coward was one of the most popular stars of the mid 20th century. While his name is not as recognisable as it was in his heyday, many people will still recall his famous witty songs such as Mad Dogs and Englishmen and Don’t Put Your Daughter on the Stage, Mrs Worthington. He was also a keen maker of home movies, and these come to prominence in the newly released documentary on Coward’s life, called Mad About the Boy. It’s an accurate title, as it was one of his popular and poignant songs, and the documentary examines Coward’s survival and international popularity while keeping his homosexuality under wraps, as homosexual acts were illegal in Britain until 1967.

The film traces Coward’s professional and personal journey from leaving school to become a child actor, to the fame he achieved and the people who were genuinely part of his lives, from acting royalty to British royalty. Footage is shown of King George VI and family visiting a film set of Coward’s wartime film In Which We Serve. And later in his life as a British tax exile he relocated to Jamaica , where Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother visited him for lunch and no doubt a few G and Ts.

Coward’s story is that of the lower middleclass lad in a home where money could be scarce, travelling a theatrical road that led to film roles, smash hit plays on both the West End and in New York, and countless recordings of his witty cabaret songs. While he had an average voice, his ability to use it to entertain was second to none.

As he once quipped, before the war he played to café society in London, but after the war, he played to Nescafe society in America. The new world embraced Coward, giving him TV shows and huge record sales.

This is a fine documentary, with lots of film footage of Coward being interviewed, and Rupert Everett voicing Coward’s written reflections of his life, while narrator Alan Cumming keeps it all moving. Noel Coward afficionados like me will love it, but anyone interested in our theatrical legends from the past will also enjoy it.

- Julie Houghton

Auditions

■ Wyndham Theatre Company: After Dinner (by Andrew Bovell) May 1, 7.00-9.00pm; May 4 2.00-4.00pm at Crossroads Theatre, Cnr Duncan’s Rd and Synnot St., Werribee. Director: Fiona Scarlett. Audition deadline: April 22. A two-minute monologue selected by the auditionee is to be prepared and presented. For further details of characters and audition requirements, wyndhamtheatre company.org.au/ Please submit expressions of interest by emailing info@wyndham theatrecompany.org.au or filling in the contact form on the website, specifying preferred date and character

■ Malvern Theatre Company (a joint production with Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company ): Little Women – the Musical (Book by Alan Knee, Lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, Music by Jason Howland) May 5 at 7pm, May 6, 7 at 7.30pm, Callbacks May 12 at 7pm, at Malvern Theatre, 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East. Director: Alan Burrows. Further details: aburrow1@bigpond.net.au 0412 077 761

■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Little Women (book by Alan Knee) May 5, 6, 7 at 7.30pm at 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East. Director: Alan Burrows. Further details: aburrow1@bigpond.net.au 0412 077 761

■ PLOS Musical Productions: School of Rock the Musical: May 11 – 23 Dewey and Children auditions. Bookings now open. Adult Principals and Ensemble auditions August 4 – 11, bookings open in July. Director: Brad Fischer; Musical Director: Bev Woodford; Choreography: Jess Pratt and Tahlia Sweetman. Further information and audition booking details: plos.asn.au

■ Melbourne French Theatre: Surprise de l'amour (Pierre de Marivaux)Fluent Frenchspeaking actors only. May 11 at 2pm, May 14 at 7pm at 203-205 Canning St., Carlton. Director: Donald McManus. Audition Bookings: melbournefrenchtheatre.org.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

● The WOMPA team onstage at the Wyndham Cultural Centre. Photo: Cameron Grant, Parenthesy.

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POTTED POTTER

■ The much-celebrated take-off of the Harry Potter books, Potted Potter: The Unauthorised Harry Experience-A Parody by Dan and Jeff, is back in Melbourne as part of a new national tour and, thankfully, has lost none of its wit and verve in providing a hilarious evening out.

The show involves two actors taking us through all seven of J.K.Rowling’s Harry Potter book series by describing, enacting and generally poking fun at Potter’s adventures in the world of wizardry.

The show covers all seven books, from HP and the Philosopher’s Stone to HP and the Deathly Hallows, albeit in a much-truncated form as the show only runs for 70 minutes.

Daniel Clarkson and Jefferson Turner are the writers and co-creators of the show. It is a mix of monologues, dialogues and a fair amount of improvised mayhem with nods to a variety of performance styles such as vaudeville, pantomime, clowning, musicals and so on with a bit of audience participation thrown in.

This current Australian tour sees Brendan Murphy and Scott Hoatson as the two actors charged with entertaining us and that is certainly what they do and then some.

In classic comedic style, Scott plays the role of the ‘straight man’, narrating pithy summations of the action in each book.

Brendan, on the other hand, is the loose cannon disruptive clown. Both have great stage presence and their high energy antics are highly entertaining.

Directed by Richard Hurst , the show is a cleverly-crafted blend of the above-mentioned performance styles.

While it took a little time to find its feet, initially appearing to be pitched at the kids in the audience, the show does become more sure of itself as it switches focus to a more adult age group and ratchets up the on (and off) stage action.

Potted Potter then is a fun rollercoaster of a ride and is highly recommended if you’re looking for a great night out.

- Review by Peter Murphy ● ● ● ● Editor Ash Long was also a guest of the producers.

From Hilde, With Love3

■ Screening as part of the Palace Cinema’s German Film Festival, From Hilde, With Love (In Liebe, Eure Hilde) is a slow burn of a film which captures something of the horror that was Nazi Germany

Based on actual events, the film follows Hilde Coppi (played by Liv Lisa Fries), a young woman in Nazi Germany during WW2 who, while living in Berlin in 1942, becomes involved with a group of young left-wing idealists.

She falls in love with a member of the group, a handsome young man, Hans Coppi (Johannes Hegemann).

Marriage and a baby quickly follow but then the group’s activities are detected and arrests made by the Gestapo with tragic consequences.

The screenplay is written by Laila Stieler and is a polished piece of writing. It involves several timelines as scenes of the group’s arrest in 1942 are interwoven with scenes from a more idyllic recent past.

However, something that could have been a jumble of hard-to-follow confusing storylines is actually very coherent. Characterisations are nicely drawn with no stereotypes but rather real believable people given life on the page.

In bringing these characters to life, the whole cast gives wonderful, understated performances which make us feel for, or at least understand, what drives their characters.

However, special mention must be made of Fries herself whose commanding performance as Hilde gives the character a sense of dignity.

The well-known German auteur, Andreas Dresen, does a marvellous job of bringing the script to life. Not a hint of sentimentality is present in what could have been a story told mawkishly. Instead, time and space is given to the telling of a sad story with character placed first and foremost.

Not an easy film to watch then as there is no happy Hollywood ending here, as there wasn’t in real life. Nevertheless, there is light and dark in the story told of these young idealists, laughter as well as pain.

Release Date: May 7 in Palace Cinemas, Astor Theatre and Kino Cinema

Duration: 124 minutes

palacecinemas.com.au

- Review by Peter Murphy

LOTS Theatre ANZAC Eve

■ LOTS Theatre once again delighted their capacity audience with a splendid ANZAC Eve presentation in the Casey Hangar at the Moorabbin Aviation Museum.

This year's theme queried the mo-

tivation for enlisting to go to war and the inspiration for survival under dreadful conditions, assisted by projected visuals.

Artistic Director Maggie Morrison led with gusto the talented cast of mixed ages, who presented war-related monologues, sketches, music, song, poetry, audience quizzes and sing-alongs.

The show was written by Jim Williams, Maggie Morrison and David Brown, and it was particularly great to see youngsters performing in the cast.

Susan Digby presented lovely expressive vocal renditions of White Cliffs of Dover and We'll Meet Again, and music throughout the show was played by Roslyn Brown, David Brown (terrific work with the music quiz) and Graeme Hanks.

Hats off to the show's performers for entertaining and informing the appreciative audience so well. Cast members not already mentioned included David Dodd, Christian Jones, Sebastian Jones, Ethan Verma, Ben Withington, Banjo Morrison, Jim Williams and David Brown.

Sam Withington created and operated the effective lighting and sound design. Well done to all involved with clearing the hangar of display aircraft, setting up and staging the production, then 'bumping' everything out so the planes can be returned to the hangar.

Keep an eye out for LOTS Theatre's next Legends of the Skies season to be presented at the Moorabbin Air Museum in October.

Hearty congratulations to Maggie Morrison and her team for a most enjoyable show.

- Cheryl Threadgold

MPAC shows

■ Monash University Performing Arts Centres’(MPAC) program of captivating music, boundary-pushing dance-theatre, and classic performing arts continues this winter, across its venues, the David Li Sound Gallery and the Alexander Theatre

Highlights include: Collide, Eric Avery, Hold Me Closer Tony Danza and Bell Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

- Contributed

The Taste of Things

■ (PG). 135 minutes. Opens in selected cinemas May 2.

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 20 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.

As Eugenie starts to experience health issues, 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 cast are all exceptional, with Binoche and Magimel a particular treat to watch, presenting their characters’ love for one another mostly through facial expressions and body language, not just dialogue.

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 patient movie-goers ample rewards.

RATING - ****½

Abigail

■ (MA). 110 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.

Initially amusing, but ultimately tiresome horror/action/comedy, with a simple plot that is needlessly protracted, turning something that

could have been a fun, 90-minute ride into a chore that lasts for nearly two hours.

The story centres on the kidnapping of 12-year-old Abigail (Alisha Weir) by a group of newly assembled criminals, made up of Frank (Dan Stevens), Joey (Melissa Barrera), Peter (Kevin Durand), Dean (Angus Cloud), Rickles (William Catlett) and Sammy (Kathryn Newton).

The kidnapping has been organised by Lambert (Giancarlo Esposito) , who tells the group to keep Abigail cuffed, blindfolded and locked up in an expansive house for 24 hours, until a $50 million ransom is paid.

As the night goes on, the kidnappers discover that the little girl isn’t what she seems, a factor which could leave them all dead by the next day.

Directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, who helmed the highly enjoyable Ready Or Not (2019), and the two recent, very hitand-miss Scream movies, return in many ways to their breakout hit, then adding the same genre mix of From Dusk Till Dawn (1996), except the twist is unfortunately shown in the trailer.

Also, while Ready Or Not was efficient in how it used its run time, that is not the case here, where the result is 20 minutes too long.

Performances are acceptable (Stevens is definitely having a lot of fun), but the paper thin characters are largely uninteresting, causing the endeavour to feel repetitious. Production values are strong, with impressive production design and make-up effects.

Abigail is a disappointment, again showing how a number of modern film-makers don’t know when to quit, allowing their material to go on far longer than what is necessary.

RATING - **½ - Aaron Rourke

● ● ● ● Scott Hoatson ● ● ● ● Brendan Murphy

In Tails

■ Colin Lane and David Hobson are both seasoned, well known entertainers. Hobson a tenor, Lane primarily a comedian.

Both can sing, both can ‘move’ well on stage, both can entertain. They know how to present a well rehearsed, polished, professional performance.

Their show In Tails is not new. It was first performed in 2016, yet stands the test of time with modern references, location specific jokes and some audience banter.

Together with a wonderful musical director/pianist/guitarist/singer David Cameron, In Tails is a musical treat, particularly for lovers of opera.

Whilst many of the gags were predictable the delivery still attracted laughs. The show felt comfortable, the vaudeville type style still works, particularly amongst an older audience such as this was.

There are some wonderful, quick witted duets. There is also a very amusing number involving all three performers. I laughed out loud.

In Tails is advertised with the promise to ‘enthral and entertain’. I think it entertained, not sure about enthralling. Whilst there was humour, there was more opera than I expected, and perhaps more popular with fans of this genre.

Lane stood out, he was loud and clear and also had the advantage of singing in English, songs that were more well known to the novice. He has comic timing, great facial expression, his performance/lines produced many laughs.

Hobson was more the ‘straight man’, we were waiting in vain for him to learn more about comedy, rather than the focus being Lane learning about opera. I think the next rendition could remedy this.

Despite being a tad too long, In Tails is well worth the night out, complete with being able to meet the stars after the show- where Lane’s comedy continues.

- Review by Elizabeth Semmel

She Slayed

■ What do you get when four large hair-dos with even larger egos, waltz into Grouse Theatre at Melbourne International Comedy Festival?

Music, dance, lots of laughs in an original show, She Slayed. A drag who dunnit.

Created by Nicholas Reynolds, She Slayed begins as a regular drag show until murder. With a room full of suspects, the murderer could be anyone, probably not who you think.

The singing, acting, and comedy of the show is fun, vibrant, clever - unfortunately this mystery, whilst original, not so interesting.

This was disappointing as it was what caught my attention to choose to see this show over many on offer.

However, the character interactions, banter with the audience made the show worthy of a recommendation.

Being in the presence of a seasoned performer like Dolly Diamond was terrific. She has an amazing stage presence, able to bounce easily off the interactions with the audience.

Her improvisational skills are very funny, her whole act is star quality. It was a privilege to be up close and personal.

Dolly was the highlight, yet complemented well by the self proclaimed Femme Fatale Jen Radda, the glamorous Iva Rosebud, and the newest of the four, Poussay

Unfortunately there were some pitfalls in this show. Whilst I enjoyed most of it, it lagged at times.

This could be attributed to poor sound quality. The live singing was great, the lip syncing not so.

There are, however, many highlights including a musical mash up, audience singing opportunity, some great one liners, mostly from Dolly. There was good use of a small space with some clever lighting techniques.

I had a smile on my face through most of She Slayed, with lots of laugh out loud opportunities. Remember, however, if you want to remain anonymous, do not sit middle-front or arrive late.

- Review by

Elizabeth Semmel

EXACT DIMENSIONS OF HELL

■ There is nothing exact about Bridget Mackey’s play, The Exact Dimensions of Hell

At best it is disjointed.

A 14-year-old girl with anxiety wants instruction in witchcraft from an older man dying of cancer.

But Mackey’s narrative doesn’t actually develop either a story line or character so she does not treat the subject matter with any respect given what happens.

Lolita it is not. The performance then lurches into representative routines of shaking and ritual with incantation-like speech that goes on for far too long.

The opening screen projection of emails was warning enough because it delayed the arrival of the actors.

But Mackey has then relied on projections at the end of the play to convey whatever message she had in mind.

The pseudo-insights this offered were as meaningful as the pop-psychology the witch relied on to escape his diagnosis of a fatal cancer. Both were terminal.

Wrapping someone in cloth or staging the actor with his back against a pillar so he can’t be seen by the audience might also have you wondering about what director Alice Darling had in mind as well.

Confronting content is one thing, but a respectful treatment of it is another which is where this piece fails to achieve its aims in terms of understanding character motivation, dramatic representation and thoughtful message making.

-

Review by David McLean

Have A Talk Show

■ Annie and Lena’s Have A Talk Show, performed as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, was a wild high energy rollercoaster of a show which was something of a hit and miss affair in terms of its laugh factor.

Starting out as a pair of backstage production assistants, Annie and Lena slowly rose through the ranks of the various production roles involved in putting a talk show on, eventually reaching the dizzying heights of hosting the show themselves.

Unfortunately, this turned out to be a role too far when being the hosts proved too much for them as they made faux pas after faux pas in dealing with a variety of different talk show type guests.

Eventually the wheel turned full circle and they found themselves back where they started. Or did they?

There was a strong structure to the script as the dynamic duo worked their way through the talk show ranks.

Puns and quips came fast and furious along with amusing interactions with the audience. Of course, it is part and parcel of such improvisational comedy that the script isn’t finalised as a certain amount of the show is ad-libbed. This gave a raw edgy feel to the show and led to some hilarious moments interspersed with flat jokes.

Regardless, there can be no doubting the energy, passion and commitment of Annie Lumsden and Lena Moon, the two performers.

They have a strong background in sketchstyle improvisational comedy which clearly showed on the night.

Still, with no credit given to direction it is assumed that the couple pretty much made things up themselves where the guiding vision of a director might have made for a more polished show.

Something of a rough gem then, Have A Talk Show displayed all the strengths and weaknesses of improvisational comedy and, in the end, the evening was carried by the skills and talent of Annie and Lena themselves.

Venue: Malthouse Theatre - Playbox - Review

by Peter Murphy

Lab Meat

■ Bonnie Tangey’s Lab Meat, performed as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, was a dry, satirical, at times hilarious, look at artificially-created “food for carnivores” from an industry insider.

Essentially, Tangey’s all-too-brief monologue was a story-driven explanation of what lab-grown meat is and how it could be the savior of humankind.

However, while informative enough about its subject, it was also filled with humorous asides about her life outside of the lab and involved the gentle mocking of self, family, friends and the odd celebrity or two.

While there was the occasional ad lib with an audience member, Lab Meat was substantially a well-written and cleverly-scripted piece of comedy.

The old adage “write about what you know” rang true here as she told stories drawn from her experience working in a science lab.

Growing meat balls using DNA drawn from extinct woolly mammoths? You couldn’t make this kind of thing up if you tried.

But the joy and delight of the evening wasn’t just a witty script as Tangey herself was an engaging performer who brought the nonsensical to life with a disarming charm.

Her nerdy “mad scientist’ persona, based one assumes to a certain degree on her real-life self, came across as a winsome loveable character.

This was despite the fact that, being a bit kooky and ever-so-slightly off-centre, her wry grin and askance looks hid some surprisingly sharp barbs in her punchlines.

But it was never done with venom as she charmed the audience with tale after tale of shenanigans in the lab.

So Tangey shows much promise with her zany yet somehow quite sensible perspective on her dual existence as a lab scientist and a comedian.

- Review

by Peter Murphy

■ Since the pioneering days of Melbourne television in 1956, when entertainer Ron Blaskett filled the screens with his friend Gerry Gee, Victorians have had a fascination with ventriloquism.

Over the years, Melbourne has embraced acts such as David Strassman with Chuck Wood and Ted E. Bare ... and now a newer favourite has emerged with Nina Conti and Monkey.

Nina, 50, was raised in London, having studied psychology, diverted into acting and comedy. Her visit in April to Melbourne for the Comedy Festival for a week-long schedule of shows was not her first excursion here. We can recall MICF performances going back to at least 2010.

We bought tickets for a Capitol Theatre Saturday night, and the venue was packed, with many of the patrons in their 50s, 60s and older.

Conti and her furry friend have successfully used the internet with new broadcasts much weeks to build a loyal audience that is prepared to buy tickets as she travels the world.

Most recently, Conti has been performing gigs in New York, as well as a full roster around the UK.

Conti is playful, a prankster and lightning fast with a wit, where she must think rapidly for at least two characters at once.

She multiplies this feat by drawing multiple audience members to the stage, giving them latex masks, with moving lips that she operates by a hand-control.

The result is comedic mayhem. Every show is different. On the night that we attended (April 13), her guests included an exotic dancer, her non-dancing boyfriend, and a Scots travel agent who came to Australia by bicycle. True!

Another part of the show was a ‘dating game’ in which her Monkey doll interviews a dozen members from the audience, meeting each oif them with rapidfire ad lib humour.

Five-star comedy.

The cynical Monkey Monkey continually insults Conti. He swears when he does not have his demands fulfilled. He often deconstructs ventriloquism by pointing out that he has no microphone, or that all of his ideas are Conti's.

The older audience did not seem to mind some of the fruit language, in fact it seemed to appeal.

A special part of the act is Conti’s hilarious responses to the doll and to the audience ad libs. Her early years as an actor continue to pay great dividends.

Until her next visit to Melbourne, catch up with Conti and Monkey, free, on Youtube and Facebook. You will laugh out loud.

- Ash Long

● ● ● ● Matilda Gibbs and Daniel Schlusser in The Exact Dimensions of Hell. Photo: Darren Gill

● ● Monkey and Nina Conti

■ Richard Steven Valenzuela was born in the San Fernando Valley region of Los Angeles in 1941.

He was of Mexican descent and became interested in music at the age of five and learnt to play guitar, trumpet and drums.

When he was 16 and still at Pacoima Junior High School, Ritchie joined a local band The Silhouettes as a guitarist.

The lead singer left the group in 1957 and Ritchie took over the role.

Ritchie was likened to the ‘rock and roll’ singer Little Richard

He had a fear of flying following an accident when two planes collided over his school resulting in the death and injury of several of his school friends.

Ritchie Valenzuela was spotted performing at a Saturday afternoon matinee in a local picture theatre by Bob Keane, the head of the DelFi record label.

The next two years were to become a whirlwind for the young singer who was on course to achieve international success.

After auditioning for Bob Keane , young Ritchie was given a recording contract.

His first hit song Come On Lets Go did reasonable business and Bob asked Ritchie to shorten his name to Ritchie Valens

His second hit in 1958 La Bamba was an adaptation of a Mexican folk song and made it into the top 40 US Hit Parade charts.

Magazine

Magazine

Whatever Happened To ... Ritchie Valens

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

It is listed in the Rolling Stone magazine's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time and it is the only song in a language other than English.

About this time I came into the picture. I can remember lying on my bed at family home in Coburg and hearing Stan Rofe play Donna on his radio show Platter Parade on 3KZ - at that point Ritchie Valens became a part of my life.

Donna was on the flip side of La Bamba on the 45-rpm single. I guess most young people reading this article would not have a clue what that means.

Donna was Ritchie's biggest hit song and it went to number two in the US Hit Parade charts.

Ritchie made a promotional trip to New York in late December 1958 and appeared on Dick

● ● ● ● Ritchie Valens

Clark's American Bandstand and Alan Freed's Christmas Show.

Ritchie Valens was a part of the ill-fated Winter Dance Party bus tour of the midwest in late January 1959.

When Buddy Holly chartered a small plane to fly from Iowa, to the next date in Fargo, North

Dakota, Valens flipped a coin with guitarist Tommy Allsop to see who would get the last seat and he won the toss.

The plane took off in the early hours of February 3, 1959 during a snowstorm.

Minutes later it crashed in a cornfield, claiming the lives of Ritchie Valens, Buddy Holly, J.P. Richardson (The Big Bopper) and the pilot

Roger Peterson

Earlier on, future country singer Waylon Jennings who was playing bass in Buddy Holly's band had given up his seat on the plane to J P Richardson

The tragic event was described as ‘the day the music died’ in America.

Ritchie Valens was only 17 when he lost his life in the accident.

In 1987 Lou Diamond Phillips played the role of Ritchie Valens in the film La Bamba

I have seen the stage musical Buddy several times and scene where La Bamba is re-created is a real ‘show stopper’.

Ritchie Valens was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001.

Kevin Trask

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

NEW EXHIBITION AT HEIDE MUSEUM OF MODERN ART

■ Heide Museum of Modern Art announces a new exhibition that will explore the complex significance of hair in contemporary culture through a selection of Australian and international works of art.

The exhibition titled Hair Pieces brings together historic and recent works encompassing a wide array of media such as painting, photography, video, installation, sculpture and recorded live performance.

For Millenia hair has been a resonant and compelling site of meaning, transmitting ideas about gender, mythology, status and power, the body, psychology, feminism and notions of beauty.

At once radiant and repellent, and often richly symbolic, it has always assumed a particular importance in relation to the self, history, and society.

Hair Pieces examines the myriad ways in which artists utilise hair to investigate themes encompassing growth, empowerment and transformation.,

Exhibition opens May 4 and closes October 6.

Heide Museum of Modern Art 7 Templestowe Rd, Bulleen

At NGV

Nina Sanadze surveys the work of Melbourne-based contemporary artist Nina Sanadze.

With a practice combining installation, sculpture and found objects, Sanadze references public statues, structures and monuments as metaphors for societal transformation, sometimes incorporating physical fragments and traces of public sculpture into her work.

The exhibition on display at he Ian Potter Centre NGV Australia presents six sculptures and installation-based work which interrogate the meaning that statues carry, and the ways they reflect the values and priorities of the time and place in which they are erected or removed.

The works on display reference Australia’s colonial monuments in order to explore and question the emotional resonance of public art.

In the installation Monuments and Movements , the artist references Melbourne-based sculptures, includ-

The Arts

with Peter Kemp

ing Queen Victoria (1819-1901), Edward VII (1841-1940) and King George V monuments in Melbourne

Replicating these monuments as flat, folding silhouettes on wheels, this installation presents these sculptures in state of flux between being assembled or dismantled, drawing attention to ideas of permanency and the ephemeral.

Exhibition closes August 4.

Ian Potter Centre NGV.

Federation Square

Swanston St, Melbourne

Hawthorn

Discover Hawthorn Arts Centre

Architect John Beswicke’s spectacular Second Empire-style Town Hall was completed in 1889 and opened with a Grand Ball.

Over time the building has evolved with the community, with additions such as the clock tower, balcony, marble stairs, entrance foyer, and stunning art deco chandeliers, making it one of Melbourne’s most iconic buildings.

In 2013 the Town Hall was reimagined and redeveloped into the Hawthorn Arts Centre comprising a gallery, performance spaces, function rooms and artist studios.

Experience a tour of this stunning venue, learn about its history and how it remains a cultural hub for the local communities.

Hawthorn Art Centre Tours

Friday May 10, 11am – 2pm.

Friday June 7, 5pm – 5.30pm (before Art after hours)/

Coming Home

Marina Florenancig

Bold and textual, Coming Home by Marina Floreancig is a community exhibition exploring place and identity.

Creating abstract paintings by adding and scraping away layers of paint, Marina negotiates the relationship between our sense of self and the outside world.

Exhibition opens May 1 and closes June 15.

The Long Way: Kevin Chin is a major exhibition at Town Hall Gallery taking viewers on a journey into borderless new territories.

A new series of ethereal paintings is contextualised by a curated selection of highlights from Chin’s 19yeqar artistic practice.

Exhibition opens Wednesday May 8 and closes Sunday July 28.

Hawthorn Arts Centre

30 Burwood Rd., Hawthorn - Peter Kemp

Showcase

■ The National Museum of Australia will showcase a selection of objects chosen by ABC personality Tony Armstrong for his new five-part series Tony Armstrong’s Extra-Ordinary Things, which will be broadcast on ABC TV and ABC iview.

The project is a collaboration between ABC TV, Fremantle Australia, Screen Australia and the National Museum which culminates in the curation, production and broadcast of a nationally televised series and an exhibition in Canberra later this year.

National Museum director Katherine McMahon said: “We are delighted to be involved in this fantastic project to explore the untold history of Australia and uncover the objects Australians cherish.

“Three of the Museum’s curators, Dr Sophie Jensen, Dr Martha Sear and Craig Middleton, showed Tony, our guest curator, the ropes.”

MG Day for Michael

■ MG Day is held to celebrate the life and achievements of music man Michael Gudinski. Staff of Mushroom Records who have served 10 and 20 years service were presented with a memorial plaque to reward them for being members of the MG family. MG Day is an annual event.

Latest on Miranda Kerr

■ Aussie born and international super Mum and model Miranda Kerr has found further fame in a global role as brand ambassador for Michael Hill Jewellery. There is a 20-year association between the parties when Miranda first modelled for the now famous jeweller. Watch for the TV campaign on our screens.

Reboot of Melrose Place

■ Dust off the old scripts, props, wigs and wardrobe from the first season of Melrose Place in 1992. Melrose is due to start a new series, and Heather Locklear has signed again to star as Amanda Woodward. CBS is producing the reboot and hoping it rates better than previous attempt.

London pub life

■ There is never a dull moment in the life of super chef Gordon Ramsay Squatters have taken occupancy in Gordon's empty pub premises in Central London valued at $16 m. Gordon called the Bobbies who entered into dialogue with squatters who were full of legal gobbledygook and refused to move. Gordon's reply was 'f@#! o*^^'.

Trouble in River City

■ A major blunder is true. Mildura Council made a boo-boo in using the wrong type of sand to build four beach volleyball courts on the banks of the Murray River causing the competition to be upset for this summer, - John O’Keefe

● ● Michael Gudinski

Observer Melbourne Lovatts Crossword No 3

Across Across Down Down

Beaten convincingly

(2,1,4)

Wilder (of scheme)

Small lumps

Promissory notes (1,1,2)

Observer Melbourne Lovatts Crossword No 3

Across Across Down Down

Beaten convincingly

(2,1,4)

Wilder (of scheme)

Small lumps

Promissory notes (1,1,2)

Crossroads

By Rob Foenander info@robfomusic.com.au

South Side

■ Frankston’s annual South Side Festival is 10 days of adventure each May that aims to satisfy all creative cravings. Thought provoking and exciting performances, raucous comedy, dazzling installations, striking visual arts, fun for the whole family and even some delightfully naughty bits are on offer. Numerous venues around the city will play host to a number of shows commencing May 10. More info at https://www.southside festival.com.au/Whats-On

Enda’s album

Sister Works supports 60 women

■ The State Government says it is helping migrant, refugee and asylum-seeking women build skills to find work in hospitality.

Natalie Hutchins, Minister for Women, last week visited the SisterWorks Abbotsford Empowerment Hub to meet women taking part in the Crafted Culture Hospitality Employment Pathways Project

SisterWorks received $100,000 in the Victorian Budget 2023-24 to support 60 women to gain handson vocational training and employment opportunities through the project.

Since 2018, the Government has invested more than $1 million in SisterWorks programs to economically empower migrant and refugee women, as part of the Government’s work to address structural barriers to women’s participation in the workforce.

Rob Foenander

■ Singer songwriter Enda Kenny has released his new album. Titled After The Interval, the 16 tracks include 10 new original songs and features Dave O'Neill on strings and Kate Crowley on backing vocals. The award winning Irish-born artist who made Australia his home is a regular on the folk and acoustic music festival circuit both here and abroad. He’s described as one of the new generation of singers and songwriters who is attracting international recognition. More info: https://endakennymusic.com/ home -

Sunset Blvd

■ The lavish new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical masterpiece, Sunset Boulevard, starring Sarah Brightman, premieres in Melbourne on May 21 at the Princess Theatre. Rehearsals for this much anticipated Australian production re now underway.

Migrant, refugee and asylum seeker women can be excluded from employment opportunities due to a lack of local relevant experience, qualifications and language barriers.

Women from culturally diverse backgrounds are overrepresented in insecure and low-paid work. They also experience higher rates of unemployment.

Training in the hospitality program takes place as an eight-week course at the SisterW orks’ Abbotsford Empowerment Hub and Crafted Culture Café in Rich-

Crossword Solution No 3

● Natalie Hutchins, Minister for Women, with Paola Sosa Avenia and Nataliia Babii, both of whom are previous participants in the funded hospitality course who have gone on to get work in the industry. mond, which officially opened in April last year.

Once training is complete, women graduates receive ongoing support including placement with SisterWorks’ partners and an opportunity to work at the Crafted Culture Café.

This builds on the Government's funding for SisterWorks' social enterprise expansion project, which last year supported the renovation of Crafted Culture Café's commercial kitchen, expanding the café's catering service and training in food production.

Ms Hutchins said: “We are proud to support these programs which not only help women from

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migrant and refugee backgrounds find work and expand their skills, but may inspire them to start up their own initiatives, run businesses and advance their leadership aspirations.”

“Everyone should have equal opportunity – and supporting these programs is about working towards a fairer and more equal Victoria for women and girls from all backgrounds, because they deserve every opportunity to succeed.”

Bronwyn Halfpenny, Parliamentary Secretary for Jobs, said: “We are so pleased to invest in the results of these programs for local seeker women.” refugee, migrant and asylum

Observations

Fyfe exhibition

■ Sol Gallery is presenting Marvellous Melbourne By Fyfe from May 15-26.

Those who grew up in Australia at the turn of the century watching Hey Hey It’s Saturday and The Footy Show will remember the creations of Andrew Fyfe, artist and cartoonist.

A regular on Australian television, Andrew also hosted two seasons of his own television show Guess What? from 1992 to 1993 with Alison Brahe and Jacquie Rindt for the Nine Network

Andrew’s work has appeared in Australian Mad magazine, the Herald Sun, TV Week and Truth newspaper and in 2014 Human Nature used his work as a backdrop to their Xmas Vegas Show

This month Andrew will present an assembled series of prints that celebrate his hometown Melbourne. The collection of limited-edition fine art prints encapsulates the essence of Melbourne through a whimsical lens, portraying familiar streets, iconic buildings, and social satire with a distinctive twist.

Sol Gallery is at 420 Brunswick St, Fitzroy

with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Observations with Matt

Melbourne Showbiz Memories from the

Bissett-Johnson

Melbourne Observer Photo Files

HAMMER EXCAVATIONS

Victoria Pictorial: ANZAC Day 2024

● ● ● ● Yea High School students reflect.

● ● ● ● RSL member Glen Milliken recites the ode.

● ● ● ● Yea Primary School students.

● ● Sub-Lieutenant Damian Moana, NZ Navy.

● ● Sub-Lieutenants Joseph Young and Damian Moana. ● ● Ed Davies of Yea-Kinglake RSL pays respects.

● ● David Anderson, Master of Ceremonies, Yea.

●

● ● ● Yea and High Country Pipes and Drums.

● ● Part of the Assembly at Yea.

● ● ● ● Yea High School students at the wreath table.

● Grace Neville sings the anthems.

● ● One of many wreaths laid.

● ● Piper Michelle Mussett plays the lament.

● ● ● ● Cr Sue Carpenter leads Remembrance Prayer.

● ● Sen. Sgt Noella Bannon of Victoria Police.

●

● ● ● Students from Sacred Heart Primary School.

● ● ● ● Tony Jacobs, President, Rotary Club of Yea.

● ● Fire Fighter Corey Bennett lays a wreath.

With thanks to Jeffrey Swain

Local Sport

WEEKEND’S LOCAL FOOTBALL MATCH RESULTS

Amateurs

■ Premier Men’s. Collegians 7.9 (51) d Old

Scotch 6.12 (48). Old Brighton 14.13 (97) d

Old Melburnians 9.8 (623). St Bernards 17.10 (112) d St Kevins 8.12 (60). Old Xaverians

13.12 (90) d Fitzroy 11.7 (73). University Blacks 11.9 (75) df University Blues 10.10 (70).

■ Premier Men’s Reserves. Old Scotch 6.12 (48) d Collegians 5.6 (36). Old Xaverians 20.12 (132) d Fitzroy 7.4 (46). Old brighton 10.14 (74) d Old Melburnians 9.12 (66). St Kevins 8.21 (69) d St Bernards 5.8 (38). University Blues 17.16 (118) d University Blacks 4.2 (26).

■ Premier Under 19. Old Brighton 18.12 (120) d De La Salle 6.4 (41). Old Scotch 12.10 (82) d Beaumaris 7.8 (50). Uni Blues 16.21 (117) d Williamstown CYMS 4.4 (28). St Kevins 12.6 (78) d St Bedes 8.9 (57). Caulfield Grammarians v Old Xaverians.

■ Premier B Men’s. Beaumaris 11.10 (76) d Old Camberwell 10.11 (71). Old Haileybury 25.21 (171) d Williamstown CYMS 6.9 (45). Old Ivanhoe 16.12 (108) d St Bedes/Menton Tigers 6.10 (46). Old Trinity 16.8 (104) d De La Salle 15.11 (101). Caulfield Grammarians 12.15 (87) d Old Geelong 11.11 (77).

■ Premier B Men’s Reserves. Old Camberwell 14.13 (97) d Beaumaris 6.6 (42).

Williamstown CYMS 15.9 (99) d Old Haileybury 4.5 (29). Old Ivanhoe 10.19 (79) d St Bedes/Mentone Tigers 3.4 (22). Old Trinity 12.15 (87) d De La Salle 8.8 (56). Old Geelong 11.15 (81) d Caulfield Grammarians 9.4 (58).

■ Premier C Men’s. Hampton Rovers 16.15 (111) d Monash Blues 6.8 (44). Old carey

9157)( d Mazenod 5.6 (36). AJAX 13.13 (91) d PEGS 10.5 (65). Parkdale Vultures 21.17 (143) d Oakleigh 6.7 (43). Glen Eira/Old McKinnon 13.13 (91) d Marcellin 8.15 (63).

■ Premier C Men’s Reserves. Hampton Rovers 16.13 (109) d Monash Blues 2.5 (17).

Old Carey 16.11 (107) d Mazenod 8.7 (55).

AJAX 20.8 (128) d PEGS 9.2 (56). Parkdale Vulturesd 14.21 (105) d Oakleigh 7.8 (50). Marcellin 11.8 (74) d Glen Eira/Old McKinnon 8.7 (55).

■ Division 1 Men’s. Ormond 24.,14 (158)

d Therry Penola 7.9 (51). Parkside 8.8 (56) d Prahran 3.11 (29). UHS-VU 12.7 (79) d Old Yarra Cobras 7.11 (53). Kew 11.15 (81) d West Brunswick 10.18 (78). Preston Bullants 21.9 (135) d Old Peninsula 9.12 (66).

■ Division 1 Men’s Reserves. Ormond 16.12 (108) d Therry Penola 4.5 (29). Prahran 13.10 (88) d Parksider 9.4 (58). UHS-VU Reserves 18.7 (115) d Old Yarra Cobras 6.8 (44).

Kew 11.13 (79) d West Brunswick 6.12 (48).

Preston Bullants 16.11 (107) d Old Peninsula 9.13 (67).

■ Division 2 Men’s. Brunswick 19.13 (127) d Wattle Park 5.8 (38). Hawthorn 16.7 (103) d South Melbourne Districts 15.10 (100).

Elsternwick 15.4 (94) d Whitefriars 9.18 (72).

Bulleen Templestowe 11.3 (69) d St Marys Salesian 6.13 (49). MHSOB 14.15 (99) d Aquinas 7.10 (52).

■ Division 2 Men’s Reserves. Brunswick 20.11 (131) d Wattle Park 4.6 (30). Hawthorn 11.15 (81) d South Melbourne Districts 2.5 (17). Whitefriars 15.4 (94) d Elsternwick 6.8 (44). St Marys Salesian 16.20 (116) d Bulleen Templestowe 0.2 (2). MHSOB 14.10 (94) d Aquinas 8.16 (64).

■ Division 3 Men’s. North Brunswick 9.10 (64) d Canterbury 8.9 (57). Power House 30.23 (203) d Chadstone 9.5 (59). La Trobe University 24.14 (158) d Eley Park 3.7 (25).

Swinburne University 12.16 (88) d Box Hill North 9.8 (62). St Johns 22.13 (145) d Albert Park 3.4 (22). Richmond Central: Bye.

■ Division 3 Men’s Reserves. North Brunswick 11.8 (74) d Canterbury 6.7 (43).

Power House 20.28 (148) d Chadstone 2.1 -13). La Trobe 21.17 (143) d Eley Park 7.3 (45). Swinburne University 15.14 (104) d Box Hill North 8.10 (58). St Johns 14.9 993) d Albert Park 4.12 (36). Richmond Central: Bye.

■ Division 1 Under 19 Men’s. Glen Eira/ Old McKinnon 11.7 (73) d Old Melburnians 9.16 (70). St Bernards 16.12 (108) d Old

Haileybury 7.6 (48). Hampton Rovers 16.12 (108) d University Blacks 6.10 (46). Fitzroy 16.6 (102) d Old Carey 9.6 (60). Old Xaverians 17.17 (119) d Old Trinity 10.3 (63).

■ Division 2 Under 19 Men’s. University

Blues 20.11 (131) d Mazenod 5.8 (38). Old

Camberwell 11.12 (78) d Parkside 3.11 (29).

St Bedes/Mentone 13.12 (90) d St Kevins 9.8 (62). Parkdale Vultures 12.21 (93) d Old

ivanhoe 6.4 (40).

■ Division 3 Under 19 Men’s. PEGS 12.16 (88) d Bulleen Templestowe 2.4 (16).

Collegians v Monash Blues. Kew 11.21 (87) d Preston 11.8 (74). St Marys Salesian 12.14

(86) d Therry Penola 9.11 (65). Oakleigh 10.8

(68) d Ormond 6.10 (46). MHSOB: Bye.

■ Division 4 Under 19 Men’s. De La Salle 18.18 (126) d St Kevins 4.4 (28). Beaumaris 10.11 (71) d Glen Eira/Old McKinnon 9.14 (68). Williamstown CYMS 21.19 (145) d Old Xaveriansd 7.7 (49). Caulfield Grammarians v St Bernards.

■ Division 1 Thirds Men’s. Old Xaverians 11.8 (74) d Fitzroy 10.2 (62). Old Trinity 14.22 (106) d Old Melburnians 14.7 (91). Old Brighton 18.20 (128) d Old Geelong 6.6 (42).

■ Division 2 Thirds Men’s. Old Xaverians 18.15 (123) d Richmond Central 4.5 (29).

Williamstown CYMS 20.8 (128) d University Blacks 5.4 (34). Collegians v AJAX. Beaumaris: Bye.

■ Division 3 Thirds North Men’s. Marcellin 14.18 (102) d West Brunswick 2.2 (14). Masala 1`3.9 (87) d Whitefriars 6.10 (46). AJAX 19.15 (129) d South Melbourne 0.2 (2). Old Camberwell 15.10 (100) d Parkside 8.7 (55).

■ Division 3 Thirds South Men’s. Glen

Eira/Old McKinnon 7.13 (55) d Hampton Rovers 5.4 (34). St Kevins 15.8 (98) d Williamstown CYMS 12.5 (77). Mentone Panthers 11.12 (78) d Old Brighton 9.8 (62). Old

Xaverians 17.12 (114) d Old Scotch 11.9 (75).

■ Division 4 Thirds North Men’s. Hawthorn 18.14 (122) d Canterbury 5.9 (39). Kew 22.11 (143) d Swinburne 6.15 (51). MHSOB

11.13 (79) d Box Hill North 5.6 (36). Old carey 29.15 (189) d UHS-VU 5.3 (33).

Marcellin 18.23 (131) d Old Yarra Cobras 0.3 (3).

■ Division 4 Thirds South Men’s. Mazenod 17.11 (113) d Ormond 10.10 (70). St Marys

Salesian 7.10 (52) d Oakleigh 3.7 (25).

Parkdale 22.23 (155) d Elsternwick 2.6 (18).

Wattle Park 16.13 (109) d Monash Blues 5.7 (37). De La Salle v Masala.

■ Premier Thirds Men’s. Old Scotch 24.18 (162) d St Bernards 7.8 (5). Olde

Xaverians 16.15 (111) d Uni Blues 7.6 (48).

St Kevins 12.7 (79) d Fitzroy 8.8 (56).

Eastern

■ Premier Division Seniors. South

Croydon 13.4 (82) d Blackburn 11.9 (75). Balwyn 12.9 (81) d East Ringwood 8.12 (609). Noble Park 219.8 (122) d Berwick 7.7 (49).

Doncaster East 8.10 (58) d Norwood 5.11 (41). Rowville 11.17 983) d Vermopnt 6.11 (47).

■ Premier Reserves Men’s. Blackburn 17.5 (107) d South Croydon 3.8 (26). East Ringwood 10.7 (67) d Balwyn 9.3 (57). Noble Park 10.16 (76) d Berwick 6.6 (42).

Doncaster East 25.15 (165) d Norwood 0.1 (1). Vermont 6.9 (45) d Rowville 5.11 (41).

■ Premier Under 19.5 Men’s. Noble Park 6.8 (44) d Berwick 6.6 (42). Vermont 6.11 (47) d Rowville 6.6 (42). Doncaster East 7.8 (50) d Norwood 7.7 (49). East Ringwood 20.8 (128) d Balwyn 3.4 (22). Blackburn: Bye.

■ Division 1 Seniors. Bayswater 13.9 (87)

d Mitcham 12.7 (79). Mooroolbark 13.8 (86)

d North Ringwood 9.9 (63). Park Orcxhards 15.18 (108) d Montrose 12.16 (88). Doncaster 16.13 (109) d Wantirna South 10.13 (73). South Belgrave 14.10 (94) d Beaconsfield 9.7 (61).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Mitcham 10.11 (71) d Bayswater 7.2 (44). North Ringwood 26.19 (175) d Mooroolbark 0.1 (1). Montrose 8.6 (54) d Park Orchards 7.10 (52). Donc-

aster 8.9 (57) d Wantirna South 5.11 (41).

South Belgrave 10.15 (75) d Beaconsfield 6.5 (41).

■ Division 1 Under 19.5. Mitcham 22.19 (151) d Bayswater 0.2 (2). Park Orchards

9.14 (68) d Montrose 10.7 (67). North

Ringwood 15.15 (105) d Mooroolbark 3.2 (20). Surrey Park 12.15 (87) d Wantirna South 7.6 (48). South Belgrave 10.11 (71) d

Beaconsfield 5.5 (35).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Boronia 20.20 (140)

d East Burwood 1.10 (16). Templestowe 13.8 (84) d Croydon 12.8 (80). Lilydale 9.9 (63) d

Heathmont 8.5 (53). Mulgrave 11.12 (78) d

The Basin 9.7 (61). Waverley Blues 12.8 (80)

d Ringwood 10.8 (68).

■ Division 2 Reserves. Boronia 9.17 (71)

d East Burwood 2.7 (19). Croydon 10.14 (74)

d Templestowe 7.2 (44). Heathmont 7.10 (52)

d Lilydale 2.3 (15). nMulgrave 14.11 (95) d

The Basin 11.3 (69). Ringwood 10.7 (67)_ d

Waverley Blues 6.8 (44).

■ Division 2 Under 19.5. Waverley Blues 6.4 (40) d East Burwood 4.8 (32). Lilydale 12.11 (83) d Heathmont 6.4 (40). Mulgrave 18.9 (117) d The Basin 8.9 (57). Croydon: Bye.

■ Division 3 Seniors. Donvale 16.11 (107)

d Coldstream 11.9 (75). Oakleigh Distroict 22.12 (144) d Silvan 10.6 (66). Surrey Park 14.22 (106) d Ferntree Gully 7.5 (47). Knox 13.13 (91) d Upper Ferntree Gully 8.8 (56). Fairpark 9.12 (66) d Warrandyte 3.7 (25).

■ Division 3 Reserves. Donvale 7.6 (48)

d Coldstream 6.5 (41). Oakleigh District 12.8 (80) d Silvan 10.9 (69). Surrey Park 11.11 (77) d Ferntree Gully 7.5 (47). Upper Ferntree Gully 7.9 (51) d Knox 6.5 (41). Fairpark 10.7

(67) d Warrandyte 5.6 (36).

■ Division 3 Under 19.5. Ferntree Gully 16.21 (117) d Surrey Park 3.4 (22). Donvale

22.20 (152) d Coldstream 0.2 (2). Upper Ferntree Gully 7.7 (49) d Knox 3.10 (28).

■ Division 4 Seniors. Whitehorse Pioneers

12.13 (85) d Croydon North MLOC 7.6 (48).

Chirnside Park 17.10 (112) d Nunawading

11.16 (82). Scoresby 12.14 (86) d Kilsyth

8.8 (56). Forest Hill: Bye.

■ Division 4 Reserves. Whitehorse Pioneers v Croydon North MLOC. Chirnside Park

19.14 (128) d Nunawading 3.4 (22). Scoresby

15.14 (104) ed Kilsyth 3.1 (19). Forest Hill: Bye.

■ Division 4 Under 19.5. Blackburn 16.12 (108) d Berwick 7.5 (47). Chirnside Park 10.7 (67) d Ferntree Gully/South Croydon 6.11 (47). Kilysth v Mitcham. Scoresby 16.9 (105) d Wantirna South 11.3 (69). South Belgrave: Bye.

Essendon

■ Premier Division Seniors. Keilor 19.13 (127) d Strathmore 12.6 (78). Aberfeldie 15.7 (97) d Avondale Heights 13.16 (94). Essendon Doutta Stars 14.10 (94) d Airport West 8.15 (63). Pascoe Vale 15.21 (111) d Deer Park 12.12 (84). Greenvale 16.14 (110) D East Keilor 17.7 (109).

■ Premier Division Reserves. Strathmore 12.5 (77) d Keilor 6.16 (52). Aberfeldie 19.9 (123) d Avondale Heights 4.1 (25). Airport

West 21.21 (147) d Essendon Doutta Stars

2.7 (19). Pascoe Vale 23.15 (153) d Deer

Park 2.5 (17). Greenvale 17.18 (120) d East Keilor 5.8 (38).

■ Premier Division Under 18.5. Strathmore 7.15 (57) d Keilor 4.8 (32). Aberfeldie

17.11 (113) d Avondale Heights 2.6 (18).

Maribyrnong Park 29.16 (190) d Airport West

1.1 (7). Greenvale 12.5 (77) d East Keilor

8.6 (54). Pascoe Vale: Bye.

■ Division 1 Seniors. Maribyrnong Park

14.18 (102) d Oak Park 3.5 (23). Tullamarine

18.11 (119) d Keilor Park 11.3 (69). Hillside

24.12 (156)( d Moonee Valley 11.7 (73).

Craigieburn 18.9 (117) d St Albans 14.6 (90).

West Coburg 14.23 (107) d Roxburgh Park

8.8 (56). Rupertswood: Bye.

■ Division 1 Reserves. Maribyrnong Park

21.19 (145) d Oak Park 6.3 (39). Tullamarine

13.12 (90) d Keilor Park 4.6 (30). Hillside

22.17 (149) d Moonee Valley 4.4 (28). St

Albans 21.14 (140) d Craigieburn 4.23 (26).

Roxburgh Park v West Coburg. Rupertswood: Bye.

■ Division 1 Thirds. Hillside 23.25 (163) d Greenvale 0.0 (0). Glenroy 6.11 (47) d Oak Park 7.2 (44). Keilor 9.12 (66) d Strathmore 4.5 (29). Aberfeldie v Maribyrnong Park.

■ Division 1 Under 18.5. Coburg Districts 17.13 (115) d Oak Park 3.8 (26). Craigieburn 20.13 (133) d St Albans 6.3 (39). Essendon Doutta Stars 10.8 (68) d Tullamarine 6.3 (39).

Moonee Valley 8.14 (62) d Hillside 2.7 (19).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Burnside Heights 12.11 (83) d Coburg Districts 10.10 (70). Westmeadows 19.11 (125) d Glenroy 8.5 (53).

Taylors Lakes 19.16 (130) d East Sunbury 4.5 (29). Sunbury Kangaroos 15.10 (100) d Hadfield 11.12 (78). Northern Saints: Bye. ■ Division 2 Reserves. Glenroy 11.11 (77)

Westmeadows 4.6 (30). Coburg Districts

Morn. Peninsula

Northern

■ Division 1 Seniors.

SCORES FROM WEEKEND MATCHES

Outer East

■ Premier Division Seniors. UpweyTecoma 11.11 (77) d Olinda Ferny Creek 5.10 (40). Gembrook-Cockatoo 10.11 (71) d Emerald 7.17 (59). Officer 9.11 (65) d Pakenham 9.8 (62). Woori Yallock 22.24 (156) d Berwick

Springs 6.1 (37). Narre Warren 16.15 (111) d Wandin 11.7 (73). Mt Evelyn 8.8 (56) d Monbulk 5.14 (44).

■ Premier Division Reserves. OlindaFerny Creek 10.5 (65) d Upwey-Tecoma 9.9 (63). Gembrook-Cockatoo 9.11 (65) d Emerald 5.4 (34). Officer 7.7 (49) d Pakenham 4.5 (29). Woori Yallock 11.7 (73) d Berwick

Springs 7.13 (55). Wandin 7.8 (50) d Narre

Warren 6.3 (39). Mt Evelyn 5.8 (38) d Monbulk 5.7 (37).

■ Division 1 Seniors. Healesville 13.16 (94) d Warburton-Millgrove 8.5 (53). Seville 10.11 (71) drew with Belgrave 11.5 (71).

Alexandra d Powelltown forfeited. Yarra Geln 11.12 (78) d Yarra Junc tion 9.13 (67). Yea: Bye.

■ Division 1 Reserves. Healesville 12.7 (79) d Warburton-Millgrove 3.6 (24). Belgrave 9.6 (60) d Seville 8.3 (51). Alexandra d Powelltown forfeited. Yarra Junction 12.6 (78)

d Yarra Glen 5.4 (34). Yea: Bye.

■ Under 19 Boys. Upwey-Tecoma 15.5 (95) d Gembrook-Cockatoo 4.12 (36).

Pakenham 13.7 (85) d Officer 5.6 (36). Narre

Warren v Wandin forfeited.

■ Under 18 Boys. Woori Yallock 11.3 (69)

d Healesville 6.8 (44). Mt Evelyn 18.15 (123)

d Seville 2.2 (14). Upwey-Tecoma 5.8 (38) d Olinda-Ferny Creek 4.8 (32).

Southern

■ Division 1 Seniors. Cheltenham 19.11 (125) d Bentleigh 10.8 (68). East Brighton 18.11 (119) d Port Melbourne Colts 8.8 (56).

St Paul’s McKinnon 13.12 (90) d Chelsea Heights 7.9 (51). Springvale Districts 17.19 (121) d Mordialloc 4.10 (34). Dingley 10.5 (65) d Cranbourne Eagles 9.8 (62).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Murrumbeena 16.17 (113) d caulfield Bears 210.13 (73). Doveton

Doves 215.10 (100 d Highett 9.10 (64). St

Kilda City 14.10 (94) d Keysborough 14.6 (90). East Malvern 18.14 (122) d Endeavour

Hillsd 8.6 (54). Hampton Park 9.20 (74) d Skye 9.2 (56).

■ Division 3 Seniors. Carrum Patterson Lakes 21.13 (139) d Ashwood 7.7 (49). Lyndhurst v Heatherton. Frankston Dolphins 15.13 (103) d Black Roch 9.5 (59). South Mornington 22.10 (142) d Narre South Saints 2.5 (17).

■ Division 4 Seniors. Hampton 30.18 (198) d South Yarra 4.3 (27). Dandenong West 13.12 (90) d Clayton 9.10 (64). Moorabbin

Kangaroos 15.8 (98) d Lyndale 13.13 (91). Hallam 15.15 (105) d Doveton Eagles 5.4 (34).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Bentleigh 10.4 (64) d Cheltenham 6.4 (40). Dingley 12.7 (79) d Cranbourne Eagles 5.6 (36). East Brighton 17.6 (108) d Port Melbourne Colts 4.7 (31). Springvale Districts 29.11 (185) d Mordialloc 0.4 (4). St Paul’s McKinnon 12.6 (78) d Chelsea Heights 5.7 (37).

■ Division 2 Reserves. Murrumbeena 9.8 (62) d Caulfield Bears 2.6 (18). Doveton Doves 9.11 (65) d Highett 9.3 (57). St Kilda City 7.7 (49) d Keysborough 4.9 (33). Endeavour Hills 11.11 (77) d East Malvern 5.6 (36). Skye 7.15 (57) d Hampton Park 2.6 (18).

■ Division 3 Reserves. Carrum Patterson Lakes 13.10 (88) d Ashwood 4.2 (36). Frankston Dolphins 10.11 (71) d Black Rock 3.2 (20). Lyndhurst 12.8 (78) d Heatherton 2.7 (19). South Mornington v Narre South Saints.

■ Division 4 Reserves. Hampton 27.25 (187) d South Yarra 0.3 (3). Clayton 11.12 (78) d Dandenong West 7.6 (48). Lyndale 11.11 (77) d Moorabbin Kangaroos 7.5 (47).

Hallam 15.19 (109) d Doveton Eagles 1.2 (8).

■ Open Grade Division 1. Heatherhill 14.17 (101) d Highett 1.6 (12). Dingley 9.11 (65) d Lyndhurst 2.4 (16). Skye v Cheltenham, forfeit. Carrum Patterson Lakes 8.9 (57) d

Springvale Districts 5.5 (35).

■ Open Grade Division 2. Lyndale 13.12 (90) d Keysborough 5.4 (34). Endeavour hills 10.16 (76) d Black Rock 2.1 (13). Murrumbeena 21.13 (139) d Lyndhurst 3.1 (19).

Hallam: Bye.

■ Division 1. Under 19. Cranbourne 13.9

(87) d Dingley 4.4 (28). Bentleigh 14.7 (91)

d Endeavour hills 6.11 (47). Highett 18.20

(128) d Chelsea Heights 1.1 (7). Murrumbeena 19.14 (128) d Frankston Dolphins 7.5 (47).

■ Division 2. Under 19. Cheltenham 19.13

(127) d Carrum Patterson Lakes 4.7 (31).

Heatherton 13.13 (91) d Lyndhurst 4.5 (29).

Narre South Saints 13.9 (87) d Ashwood 11.7 (73).

Western

■ Division 1 Seniors. Werribee Districts 14.10 (4) d Hoppers Crossing 12.10 (82).

Caroline Springs 13.10 (88) d Parkside 11.6 (72). Spotswood 10.6 (66) d Altona 7.11 (53).

Point Cook 16.13 (109) d Yarraville Seddon Eagles 16.7 (103). Point Cook: Bye.

■ Division 2 Seniors. Sunshine 29.16 (190)

d North Footscray 3.4 (22). Albion 18.22 (130) d Braybrook 5.3 (33). Sunshine Heights 129.22 (136) d Tarneit 5.9 (39). Newport 23.25 (163) d North Sunshine 0.6 (6).

21.12 (138) d Western Rams 13.10 (88). Wyndhamvale 12.15 (87) d Suns 5.6 (36). Albanvale 13.16 (94) d West Footscray 11.18 (84).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Werribee Districts 11.9 (75) d Hoppers Crossing 4.5 (29).

Caroline Springs 13.11 (89) d Parkside 5.3

(33). Spotswood 15.8 (98) d Altona 5.9 (39).

Yarraville Seddon Eagles 14.11 (95) d Point Cook 6.5 (41). Point Cook: Bye.

■ Division 2 Reserves. Albion 23.10 (148)

d Braybrook 2.4 (16). Sunshine 18.23 (131)

d North Footscray 3.2 (20). Sunshine Heights 21.14 (140) d Tarneit 4.1 (25). Newport 37.16 (238) d North Sunshine 0.1 (1).

Laverton 6.6 (42) d Western Rams 5.6 (36).

Suns 9.7 (61) d Wyndhamvale 4.7 (31). West Footscray 15.10 (100) d Albanvale 8.13 (61).

■ Thirds. Sunshine Kangaroos 17.9 (111) d Newport 9.5 (59). Wyndhamvale 10.7 (67) d

Glen Orden 7.5 (47). Point Cook 17.24 (126)

d Point Cook 2.1 (13). Braybrook v Bacchus

Marsh. Eynesbury 6.7 (43) d Yarraville Seddon Eagles 6.3 (39). Spotswood 6.13 (49) d Caroline Springs Lakers 3.6 (24).

■ Division 1 Under 18. Werribee Districts 17.22 (124) d Hoppers Crossing 1.1 (7). Newport 11.10 (76) d Caroline Springs Lakers 3.11 (29). Altona 15.12 (102) d Spotswood 7.3 (45). Point Cook v Yarraville Seddon Eagles.

■ Division 2 Under 18. Point Cook Centrals 13.10 (88) d Werribee Districts 9.7 (61).

Sunshine Kangaroos 35.23 (233) d Caroline Springs Lakers 0.1 (1). Yarraville Seddon Eagles 19.17 (131) d Point Cook 1.2 (8). West Footscray: Bye.

Country League

Goulburn Valley

■ Seniors. Mansfield 26.17 (173) d Benalla 4.3 (27). Shepparton 128.13 (121) d Seymour 10.4 (64). Echuca 11.13 (79) d Euroa 5.4 (34). Kyabram 20.9 (129) d Shepparton United 10.7 (67). Rochester 7.16 (58) d Tatura 5.5 (35). Mooroopna 15.9 (99) d Shepparton Swans 13.16 (94).

■ Reserves. Masfield 21.10 (136) d Benalla 1.2 (8). Shepparton 12.13 (85) d Seymour

4.10 (34). Echuca 14.9 (93) d Euroa 4.7 (31).

Kyabram 12.6 (78) d Shepparton United 3.5 (23). Rochester 14.11 (95) d Tatura 3.1 (19).

Shepparton Swans 11.11 (77) d Mooroopna 2.2 (14).

■ Under 18. Mansfield 16.22 (118) d Benalla 4.4 (28). Shepparton 13.9 (87) d Seymour 4.6 (30). Echuca 14.4 (88) d Euroa

5.5 (35). Kyabram 20.6 (126) d Shepparton

United 1.5 (11). Rochester 34.14 (218) d

Tatura 1.0 (6). Mooroopna 8.3 (51) d Shepparton Swans 7.8 (50).

Kyabram District

■ Seniors. Avenel 12.12 (84) d Tallygaroopna 13.5 (83). Dookie United v Stanhope. Shepparton East 25.12 (162) d Girgarre

1.2 (8). Lancaster 30.17 (197) d Rushworth

5.3 (33). Nagambie 17.20 (122) d Longwood

12.4 (76). Violet Town 18.9 (117) d Undera

11.11 (77). Merrigum v Murchison-Toolamba.

■ Reserves. Avenel 9.7 (61) d Tallygaroopna 2.4 (16). Dookie United v Stanhope. Shepparton East 23.8 (146) d Girgarre 3.0 (18). Lancaster v Rushworth forfeit. Nagambie

16.2 (98) d Longwood 9.6 (60). Violet Town

12.7 (79) d Undera 6.6 (42). Merrigum v Murchison-Toolamba.

■ Under 18. Violet Town 14.13 (97) d Undera 5.4 (34). Shepparton East 34.23 (227)

d Longwood 12.0 (6). Lancaster 12.10 (82) d Murchison-Toolamba 8.9 (57). Tallygaroopna: Bye.

Riddell District

■ Seniors. Kyneton 14.5 (89) d Lancefield

4.13 (37). Diggers Rest 10.7 (67) d Macedon

7.6 (48). Wallan 24.16 (160) d Melton Centrals 5.5 (35). Riddell 6.15 (52) d Woodend

Hesket 7.5 (47). Romsey: Bye.

■ Reserves. Kyneton 6.7 (43) d Lancefield

4.7 (31). Diggers Rest 15.6 (96) d Macedon

6.2 (38). Wallan 16.13 (109) d Melton Centrals 2.3 (15). Riddell 9.9 (63) d Woodend Hesket 3.5 (23). Romsey: Bye.

■ Under 19.5. Macedon drew with Diggers Rest. Kyneton 11.8 (74) d Lancefield 8.2 (50). Wallan 12.9 981) d Romsey 4.9 (33). Gisborne Giants 14.8 (92) d Riddell 2.2 (14).

Geelong District

■ Seniors. Bannockburn 12.8 (80) d Inverleigh 9.16 (70). Werribee Centrals 12.18

(90) d Bell Post Hill 11.8 (74). Anakie 13.19

(197) d GW Giantsd 4.6 (30). Belmont 22.16

(148) d Thomson 8.12 (60). Winchelsea 16.14

(110) d Corio 12.11 (83). East Geelong 13.16

(94) d North Geelong 10.3 (63).

■ Reserves. Inverleigh 12.4 (96) d Bannockburn 7.10 (52). Werribee Centrals 11.16

(82) d Bell Post Hill 3,.4 (22). GW Giants 9.5

(59) d Anakie 3.6 (24). Belmont 14.11 (95)

d Thomson 9.3 (57). Winchelsea 10.20 (80)

d Corio 2.6 (18). North Geelong 8.13 (61) d East Geelong 6.5 (41).

Ballarat

■ Seniors. Ballarat 13.12 (90) d Lake Wendouree 2.10 (22). Darley 12.9 (81) d Bacchus

Marsh 10.9 (69). Melton 12.15 (87) d North Ballarat 12.9 (81). Redan 17.16 (118) d Melton South 9.11 (65). East Point 210.16 (76) d Sebastopol 3.11 (29). Sunbury: Bye.

■ Reserves. Lake Wendouree 9.6 (60) d Ballarat 5.5 (35). Darley 8.13 (61) drew with Bacchus Marsh 9.7 (61). Melton drew with North Ballarat. Melton South 11.7 (73) d Redan

7.16 (58). Sebastopol 9.8 (62) d East Point 6.12 (48). Sunbury: Bye.

■ Under 19. Lake Wendouree 7.9 (51) d Ballarat 6.7 (43). Bacchus Marsh 10.10 (70)

d Darley 3.5 (23). North Ballarat 1`2.9 (81)

d Melton 11.9 (75). Melton South 12.7 (79)

d Redan 7.8 (50). East Point v Sebastopol. Sunbury: Bye.

West Gippsland

■ Seniors. Tooradin-Dalmore 14.18 (102)

d Warragul Industrial 9.8 (62). Nar Nar Goon 19.15 (129) d Koo Wee Rup 5.3 (33). Dalyston

17.9 (111) d Korumburra Bena 6.5 (41).

Phillip Island 17.10 (112) d Kilcunda Bass 9.7 (61). Inverlock-Kongwak 21.22 (148) d Garfield 1.3 (9). Cora Lynn 38.19 (247) d Bunyip 0.0 (0).

■ Reserves. Tooradin-Dalmore 25.20 (170)

d Warragul Industrials 2.1 913). Nar Nar Goon 15.11 (101) d Koo Wee Rup 4.3 (27). Dalyston

7.9 (51) d Korumburra Bena 4.6 (30). Kilcunda Bass 10.4 (64) d Phillip Island 3.4 (22).

Inverloch-Kongwak 8.7 (55) d Garfield 3.1 (19). Cora Lynn 26.13 (169) d Bunyip 0.2 (2).

Stars with Kerry Kulkens

ARIES: (March 21- April 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 3.6.9.5.

Lotto Numbers: 3.12.25.9.7.40.

Keep your secrets to yourself otherwise they could be used against you. Concentrate carefully upon important issues or you could miss out. Romance looks promising and this irritating period will soon pass.

TAURUS: (April 21- May 20)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 2.3.6.8.

Lotto Numbers: 2.13.15.20.26.36.

Check everything of any importance before committing yourself although nothing seems to be coming your way now, the situation soon improves and you will have more choices than you can handle.

GEMINI: (May 21- June 21)

Lucky Colour: Violet Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 3.6.9.5.

Lotto Numbers: 3.12.20.25.45.40.

Travel plans can come unstuck so budget carefully. Charm can get you everywhere during this period but do not go overboard on the promises or you will attract more than you ever expected.

CANCER: (June 22- July 22)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 2.6.9.5.

Lotto Numbers: 2.12.20.24.40.33.

Romantic affairs can become very lively indeed, and for the singles the right outcome. Most of what you love doing will get you good opportunities, the only thing to watch is your budget.

LEO: (July 23- August 22)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Sunday

Racing Numbers: 3.6.2.1.

Lotto Numbers: 1.12.15.20.23.36. Watch your tongue or you’ll get caught up in violent outbursts, a careless attitude in your personal relationships will create friction between the younger and older members of your family.

VIRGO: (August 23- September 23)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 4.6.2.1.

Lotto Numbers: 4.12.20.23.36.30.

A pleasant surprise is coming soon and a reunion with old friends likely, even someone long forgotten. Romantic ventures are well favoured, however, don’t believe all you hear and only half of what you see.

LIBRA: (September 24- October 23)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 2.3.6.9.

Lotto Numbers: 1.12.25.5.41.33.

Financial maters are very much on your mind at the present and something will have to be done very soon to get you back on an even keel. Real estate dealings should turn out to be profitable.

SCORPIO: (October 24- November 22)

Lucky Colour: Mauve

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 1.3.8.5.

Lotto Numbers: 1.15.26.28.8.40.

A busy time ahead and you cold find yourself short of time and of temper if you let others affect your mood. tact cold help in your personal relationships and you need to relax. For your own benefit.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23- December 20)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 2.3.4.5.

Lotto Numbers: 4.12.20.30.33.35. You should be feeling on top of the world or be looking forward to a healthy holiday or time spend away from home and the usual grind. Travel is indicated and this could be a successful surprise.

CAPRICORN: (December 21- January 19)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 1.3.4.5.

Lotto Numbers: 1.12.15.40.9.6.

You could be much more successful with the help of an understanding person in achieving what you set out to do. Do not let other people with a pessimistic outlook on life keep you from doing your own thing.

AQUARIUS: (January 20- February 19)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 1.6.4.2.

Lotto Numbers: 1.12.15.45.6.33.

Marriage and surprise announcements will be the order of the day. Luck is indicated for the one who has the courage to push a little. Financial matters that have been causing a problem should be solving themselves.

PISCES: (February 20- March 20)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 1.3.8.4.

Lotto Numbers: 1.13.26.30.33.37.

Some changes and rearrangements in your domestic situation. Make doubly sure all the fine print has been thoroughly read and understood before signing anything that you will be happy and secure in your new environment.

MARYBOROUGH PROVES ITS POPULARITY

■ There’s no doubting that Maryborough id one of the most popular tracks in Victoria and a most interesting meeting was held to start theweek on Monday April 22.

■ Ararat trainer/driver Michael Bellman’s very smart but sometimes naughty 6Y0 Love YouSundons Pride mare Tictok was on her best behavior to blitz her rivals in the 2190 metre Aldebaran Park Trotters Handicap.

Stepping cleanly from 20 metres, Tictok once balanced was sent forward having little trouble crossing the leader Bellmac Bambi (barrier two) to assume control and once there, the race became a procession much to the delight of owner Gary Hull, cruising to an untouched 14.1 metre victory in a mile rate of 2-03.2 from Bellmac Bambi which stuck on well.

Midnight Avenger (four pegs from the pole) was third 2.6 metres away. Whenever this girl, a winner of five from 26 going into the race does it right she is always very competitive.

■ Romsey’s Chris Svanosio produced a lovely type of horse in Volstead-One Yankee Hall colt Remus Phoenix who toyed with his rivals on debut in the Join Our Local Lions Club 3Y0 Trotters Mobile over 2190 metres.

Bred by the Finley boys and raced by Ashley Haynes, Remus Phoenix raced exposed from gate four outside Kyvalley Misty (gate two) but was never perturbed, Cruising to the front on the final bend, Remus Phoenix greeted the judge 11 metres in advance of Flyin Time (one/two) and Ultimate Tess which ran home late after a slow beginning. The mile rate 2-03.1.

■ Bannockburn trainer Geoff Webster landed the AB Paint Vicbred Pace over 2190 metres with fifteen start maiden Dougs Flame, a 3Y0 gelded son of Flaming Flutter and Dougs Courage.

Driven by Connor Clarke, Dougs Flame (one/ three from inside the second line) was sent forward with a rush racing for the bell to cross the pacemaker Dancin With Rush and lead for the last lap, accounting for Bozanarrow (mid-field) and Marlo Mareau (five pegs) in a rate of 1-59. The margins 6.6 by 2.3 metres.

■ Strathfieldsaye trainer Julie Douglas was successful with 7Y0 Sweel Lou-Lisconnie mare Chevron Flies in the 1690 metre McPhersons Printing Group Pace paying odds of $31.00.

Driven by part-owner Kevin Weidenbach, Chevron Flies enjoyed a sweet passage from gate three trailing the pacemaker Rise Above All (gate two).

Angling away from the inside on turning, Chevron Flies was too tough at the finish for the raging hot favourite Miki To Success (one/two – four wide home turn off a three wide trail) by 1.9 metres in a rate of 1-56. Rockets Mate used inside runs from well back for third 5.8 metres away.

■ Derrinal trainer/driver Glenn Bull is having a tremendous season and snared a double on the day – 7Y0 Western Terror-Paris Highlights mare Favouritehighlight taking the Maryborough IGA Pace over 2190 metres and 5Y0 Vansumicgelding Michen Roy the 1690 metre Benstud Standardbreds Pace.

Favouritehighlight (three pegs from inside the second line) eased wide on turning and finished with a wet sail to defeat Hurrikane Dusty along the sprint lane by 2.1 metres in 2-01.1 after following the poleline leader Binno Major who held third 3.2 metres back.

Michen Roy (gate six) after being trapped wide went forward to race exposed from the bell, outstaying his rivals to record a half neck margin from Paris Princess off the back of the leader Streets Of Madrid, with Majors Creek (three pegs) a neck away third after easing wide on turning. The rate 1-57.3.

Quinella snared

■ Shepparton was Tuesday’s venue and Wahring trainer Danny Thackaray snared the quinella in the 2190 metre Avenel Equine Hospital Pace (1st Division) when 7Y0 Major Bronski-Mystical Rainbow gelding Bronski Moment defeated stablemate Major Suspect.

Driven by wife Mel, Bronski Moment was given an easy time from the pole trailing the speedy Alcatraz Girl (gate four), while Major Suspect (Nathan Jack) followed her three back along the markers.

Harness Racing

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker

Using the sprint lane, Bronski Moment ran home best to register a 1.1 metre margin over Major Suspect who also came through along the sprint lane, with Shezabluechip a head away third after racing exposed for the last half of the journey. The mile rate 2-00.7.

■ Toolern Vale trainer Brandon Bonavia’s exQueenslander 6Y0 For A Reason-Zoofari gelding Cheetah Lodge second up in Victoria landed a hefty plunge when victorious in the Goodfellows Car and Truck Rentals Pace over 2190 metres.

With Chris Alford in the sulky, Cheetah Lodge starting from gate three on the second line commenced a three wide forward move early in the race to park outside Cornishtown Kid from outside the front line which had crossed The Majors Girl (gate three).

Travelling boldly in the last lap, Cheeta Lodge defied all challengers to register a strong 4.7 metre victory over Wind Sock off a three wide trail on the back of Shallow Beach, with the ever reliable Shaq third off a three wide double trail last lap 11.6 metres away. The rate 1-57.2.

■ Pipers Creek (Kyneton) trainer Tony Xiriha combined with son Ben to capture the 2190 metre Alabar Pace with Wow You Can Dance, a 7Y0 gelded son of Art Major and Sneakenup returning a mile rate of 1-57.4.

Trapped wide from outside the front line, Ben had no option but to go forward and did so joining the pacemaker Royal Starzzz (gate two) with a little under a mile to travel.

Showing great tenacity, Wow You Can Dance refused to give in when tackled to greet the judge by a half neck from Interpretation (one/one-three wide home turn) and Royal Starzz which held third 2.3 metres away.

■ Sutton Grange trainer Ross Graham’s team are never far away in any race they contest and 4Y0 Sweet Lou-Better Downunder mare Bettorsweetvictory raced by a huge syndicate of owners including brother Leigh and Goulburn Valley resident Mitch Sidebottom, was successful in the Saddleworld Shepparton Mares Pace over 1690 metres.

Driven by Josh Duggan, Bettorsweetvictory from gate two on the second line settled three back in the running line as Calypso Mistress (gate two) led before being crossed by Shawami Lass (gate three) racing for the bell leaving Presidentslastlady in the breeze.

Moving a spot closer for the final circuit, Bettorsweetvictory when asked for an effort on turning ran home best to prevail by two metres from a game Presidentslastlady returning a mile rate of 1-56.5. Calypso Mistress held her ground to be third a nose back.

Run of the race

■ The feature event at Mildura on Wednesday the $10,000 McDonalds Irymple & Mildura Pace over 2190 metres saw last year’s Mildura Cup winner 8Y0 Art Major-Sahara Miss gelding Sahara Tiger chalk up his 28th success in 84 outings (15 at Mildura) for Shane and Ryan Sanderson.

In what was a great performance, Sahara Tiger settled four back in the moving line from the extreme draw as the speedy locally trained My Ultimate Billy cleared the field from outside the front line. Going forward mid-race, Sahara Tiger looked like being trapped wide with Ryan having no option but to go back the tail. Angling

for inside runs in the last lap as second elect Im Blingin It (gate two) came away from the back of the leader to stride clear on turning, Sahara Tiger continued to make ground along the markers and after gaining a split in-between in the straight, finished full of running to gain the day by 3 metres over Modern Ginger (three pegs from the pole) which angled wide on turning, with Im Blingin It holding third 3 metres away. The mile rate 1-58.8.

■ It was also a night to remember for 18 year old local reinswoman Charli Masotti who landed her first winner, piloting mother Kate Attard’s 7Y0 Grinfromeartoear-Lilbitabrownsuger gelding Lilbitahenrytee to victory in the 1790 metre Park Douglas Printing Pace.

Given the run of the race from gate two trailing the pacemaker Bilum (gate four), Lilbitahenrytee gained a split on turning and dashed to the front to score by 1.5 metres in advance of polemarker Auckland Lass (three pegs – three wide home turn) returning a mile rate of 2-02.5. Guys Bettor Bet (five pegs from gate two on the second line) after angling very wide on turning was third 3.3 metres back.

Double Day

■ Another double day on Thursday with Stawell in the afternoon and Geelong at night. At Stawell, passionate 71 year old Birchip owner/trainer Gary Living’s 8Y0 A Rockenroll Dance-Sancerre gelding A Rocknroll Jet recorded a most deserving victory in the Thomas Foods Pace over 2180 metres.

Trailing the poleline leader Shes A Tiny Dancer from inside the second line, A Rocknroll Jet was driven to perfection by Jackie Barker and after easing away from the inside on turning, raced clear to register a 1.9 metre margin over Montana Pride (three wide last lap from the rear). Bettorpatchmeup (three pegs) used the sprint lane for third 1.8 metres away. The mile rate 2-04.2.

■ Mount Gambier hoppers Steven Fennell and Mal Phillips tased success with Billees Jet (Jason Lee), a 5Y0 Guaranteed-Belated mare leading throughout in the 2180 metre Russ Jewellery Pace for Fennell to defeat Flaming Lucky (one/ one) by a half neck in 2-05.6.

Markleigh Caz (four pegs) was third 1.8 metres back. Phillips provided 5Y0 Betting LineThree Queens gelding The Triline (Luke Dunn) to snare the Wimmera Mallee Vet Services Pace over 2180 metres in a blanket finish coming off a one/one trip from gate two to blouse Soar (one/ tree) by a head, with a death seating She Will Wantano a half head back third. The mile rate 2-03.7.

■ At Geelong, Balliang trainer Tyrone Abela who loves the straight out trotter was successful with 3Y0 Centurion Alm-Savola filly All That Remains in the Haras Des Trotteurs Trotters Handicap over 2570 metres.

Driven by Chris Alford, All That Remains raced by Damien Burns led throughout from outside the front line to account for Old Villa Boy (barrier six) which began just as well. Polemarker Gunsen Rosie was third after following the pair. The margins 7.9 by 10.9 in a pedestrian mile rate of 2-06.2.

■ Daylesford duo Mick Barby and Anne Maree Conroy’s 5Y0 Betting Line-Glenlyon Glad gelding Glenline (gate three second line) brought up his second victory by taking the 2100 metre Harvey Norman Corio Pace.

Driven as usual by Anne-Maree, Glenline did it tough but did it well after racing three wide from the bell from near last. Still wide on turning, Glenline outstayed his rivals to register a 4.1 metre margin over Caruso Star from the rear which ran home late in a mile rate of 2-02.4. His Dream Lives On after racing exposed from gate five held down third 2 metres away.

■ It was great to see Maud husband and wife team Jack and Karen Kendall in the winners circle following the somewhat lucky victory of home bred 4Y0 Captain Treacherous-Truffieres gelding Captain Boak in the 2100 metre Southern Cross Feeds Pace.

Trailing the poleline leader Give Dad A Wave from inside the second line who was hotly pressured by the favourite Remmington from midfield racing for the bell resulting by the favourite breaking and shifting in on top of Give Dad A

Sulky Snippets Sulky Snippets

This Week

■ Meetings for the week : Wednesday –Ballarat, Thursday – Melton, Friday –Maryborough/Mildura, Saturday – Melton, Sunday – Shepparton, Monday – Hamilton, Tuesday – Cranbourne.

Wave with both horses locking wheels and shifting up the track allowing Captain Boak to sail through and lead for the last lap, greeting the judge by 6.1 metres from Reinder (four pegs) and Remmington which got going again finishing a nose away third. The mile rate 2-03.4.

All trotting

■ The highlight of Friday night’s all trotting meeting at Bendigo was the $25,000 Aldebaran Park Bendigo Trotters Cup, a discretionary handicapped race over 2650 metres – the victor Brent Lilley’s very much in-form 6Y0 Muscle Hill-LoveYa Doosie stallion Kyvalley Hotspur for staunch stable client Jim Connelly.

Driven by Chris Alford, Kyvalley Hotspur a winner of both the Charlton and Cobram Cups this season as well as the Yarra Valley Trotters Cup back in November last year, stepped safely from 10 metres to tackle stablemate Kyvalley Heist (barrier three) for the front running going into the first turn, having little difficulty in getting there.

With the pace at an even tempo, Kyvalley Hotspur was allowed to bowl along at his leisure and when Alford put the foot to the floor approaching the home turn, kicked away with a handy margin.

Although second placegetter Iron Love chased hard from three pegs, the bird had flown as Kyvalley Hotspur coasted to the wire 3.4 metres ahead of his rivals.

Hephaestus Phoenix (barrier two) after a slow beginning followed the runner up throughout to be third 10 metres back, with Chinese Whisper (five pegs) fourth .7 metres away in an all marker line finish. In quarters of 31.1, 30.9, 28.9 and 28.4 after a lead time of 82.7 seconds, Kyvalley Hotspur returned a mile rate of 2-02.2.

■ Eighty-nine-year-old Huntly trainer Bill White would have been thrilled watching 21 year old granddaughter Lauren guide 9Y0 home bred Feng Shuis Image- Party Lights mare Double Dot to victory in the 2150 metre Worlds Best Hoof Oil Trotters Mobile.

Beginning fast from gate three to lead easily, Double Dot was rated to perfection and raced clear on turning to record a 5.1 metre margin over a death seating Jansu (gate two on the second line), with Ivar a stablemate of the runner up third a neck away after trailing the winner. The mile rate 2-04.4.

■ On a night for the elders, seventy year old Romsey part-owner trainer Neil Rowley has 5Y0 Kvintet Avenger-Atego Lilly mare Atego Dawn racing in great form at present, bringing up two wins in succession on the circuit when greeting the judge in the 2150 metre J and A Mazzetti Painting Trotters Mobile.

Driven by Lancefield’s Rod Petroff, Atego Dawn starting from the pole eased three wide from three back the markers on the final bend, proving too strong for Astro (gate two) which had followed the pacemaker Boutika from gate four which held down third. The margins 1.1 by 14 metres in a mile rate of 2-02.4.

■ The Victorians dominated in both Western Australia and New Zealand on Friday, with Andy and Kate Gath taking the $300,000 Rentravision Fremantle Cup over 2936 metres at Gloucester Park with Catch A Wave after winning The Nullarbor ($1,250,000) a week earlier. Settling near last after being eased from outside the front line as Gary Hall Senior’s Jumping Jackmac (Stuart McDonald) led from gate five.

-

Len Baker

EARLY LOOK AT THE EVEREST

■ It may be a little while away but this year’s spectacular race in Sydney, the Everest, will once again be raced among the best sprinters in Australia, and even overseas.

Prior to acceptances, those listed on early markets, if they have a go, will certainlyproduce a crackerjack event over the 1200 metres.

Early Neds betting has the top Victorian, I Wish I Win, heading the betting after a good third first-up in the classic, the T.J.Smith Stakes at Randwick on April 6.

Prepared by top Victorian trainers, Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman, the son of Cox Plate winner, Savabeel, was a bit stiff in the T.J., but finished a good third behind his stablemate, the good mare Chain of Lightning, who has been sold to overseas interests.

Another Victorian the good mare, Bella Nipotina, was a good second.

I Wish I Win hadn’t raced since finishing second behind another top galloper, Think About It, beaten a long neck in an open event over 1200 metres.

Naturally between now and the big day, Peter Moody will have his then six-year-old in fine form, as he is one of the best going around.

On the second line, is another good contender in the Joe Pride trained Think About It, who got into a bit of trouble and finished 11th. He is much better than that, having won 11 of his 15 starts and is top-class.

Then we have the smart mare, Espiona, who went around in the T.J., but they were too strong for her. But it was one of the best fields she will encounter.

This is probably the best field she will ever meet, and not only they are quick, they are strong.

Then the weather can play a big part, though October is not too bad.

Private Eye, a good sprinter on his day, has had a few tries of late, and he certainly improved in the All Aged Stakes on a bog at Randwick, which was abandoned after the main event.

There is one thing up in Sydney: when it rains it pours, and there is no let up.

I feel they will be too strong for him here.

Sunshine In Paris is smart, and was a little bit unlucky in the T.J.Smith Stakes, missing the place.

Prepared by leading Queensland trainer, Annabel Neasham, she has a ton of ability and could run the place here. From seven starts she has won four, with two placings. Don’t leave her out.

The Victorian three-year-old filly, Estriella, is smart, having won her first two in good style.

Prepared by leading trainer, Ciaron Maher, she could give this a shake.

Giga Kick, prepared by young trainer, Clayton Douglas, a winner of the Everest, if right, will be right in it.

He broke down at his last start, and hasn’t raced since, but the mail is that he has trailed well. If right could give this a big shake.

Then you have the early favourite for the Golden Slipper, Storm Boy, having a crack here.

Prepared by Gai Waterhouse and Andrew Bott, he was a bit unlucky there, and next start ran fourth in the Sires.

Ted Ryan

He is up against class here. In Secret is good, and a Newmarket winner, trained on the track, but this is a bit tough.

Lady of Camelot is smart, and won the Golden Slipper in good style, but a young filly

although pretty good, might be battling here.

Saturday nights

■ Do you fancy the races on a Saturday night? If you do, there could be some action coming up in the near future.

Southside Racing, which is Cranbourne and Pakenham , are looking at talking to Racing Victoria for approval to race there on four Saturday nights in late December-January.

Thursday and Friday night meetings scheduled at Pakenham and Cranbourne, would be pushed back 24 hours to accommodate the trial. The mail is a number of participants are not happy.

You have got not only the owners, the trainers, jockeys, strappers ands a lot of other staff to think of.consider.

On top of that that is only one night on the calendar they can get a break.

If successful, it could lead to Saturday triple headers with the existing country and city meetings during the day and a new night session.

RV last trialled Saturday night meetings in late 2019.

One top trainer, Melbourne Cup winning man, Sam Freedman, urged administrators to consider the burden on stable staff and jockeys already under strain.

Top jockey Mark Zahra is not for it, but there would be a lot of jockeys who are not getting extra work, who would like some more cash.

Another worry is tiredness: jockeys are up early every day just about and lack of sleep, can cause accidents when travelling.

Emerging and fringe jockeys would be enticed to ride day and night.

Freedman said: “You’ve got to look after your staff to be asking them to go to Cranbourne to strap horses on a Saturday night - feels wrong and be robbing them of time off with the family.

Freedman also questioned the punter’s appetite for Saturday night racing.

Queensland is the only jurisdiction to regularly run night horse racing acing at Toowoomba, around a smorgasbord of rreyhound and harness races.

Winx foal

■ As the giddiness of the $10 million sale of Winx’s filly by Pierro, subsided at the Inglis Easter Yearling Sale, a question from a “mainstream journalist prompted a moment of reflection”.

“If she already owned the horse, then why buy it back?”

Debbie Kepitis, whose Woppitt Blood stock effectively bought out the shareholders in the filly, was by no means the only part-owner to stay with her own horse at the Easter Sale, but at least her name was on the docket.

● ● Espiona.Racing Photos.

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■ North. Banyule, Darebin, Nillumbik (urban), Whittlesea (urban).

■ South. Bayside, Boroondara (south), Glen Eira, Kingston, Melbourne, Port Phillip, Stonnington, Yarra.

■ East. Boroondara (north), KnoxSherbrooke, Manningham, Maroondah, Monash, Whitehorse.

■ West. Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Hume, Maribyrnong, Melton, Merri-bek, Moonee Valley, Moorabool, Wyndham.

■ South-East. Cardinia, Casey, Frankston, Greater Dandenong, Mornington Peninsula (inc. Southern Peninsula and Western Port).

■ Regional. Mansfield, Mitchell, Murrindindi, Nillumbik (rural), Strathbogie, Whittlesea (rural), Yarra Ranges.