The Local Paper. Regional Edition. Wed., Apr. 17, 2024

YOUTH SERVICE ON THE BRINK

Rollover at Yea

■ The Goulburn Valley Highway was closed in both directions at Dairy Creek Road, Homewood, due to a rolled truck on Sunday (Apr. 14).

Drivers were asked to use Strath Creek and Broadford-Flowerdale roads to the south, between the Hume Freeway and WhittleseaYea Road as an alternative.

The incident and road closure were under the control of Victoria Police

Policy feedback

■ Murrindindi Shire Council is inviting community and business to provide feedback on its draft Economic Development Strategy, to help guide the future of the local economy. Feedback closes Sunday, May 12.

■ A key youth service provider in the NorthEast is on the brink of closure.

The Innovation Youth Centre in Bundoora has supported more than 500 marginalised young people with a place to connect and engage in innovative youth programs.

“The current Federal Labor Government has failed to renew funding for the centre, and despite making multiple visits and spruiking the benefits of this centre, the Allan Government has also failed to step up and provide financial support,” said a Liberal Party representative.

“As a consequence, the centre is now facing imminent closure – which would result in the loss of the only youth centre in the City of Whittlesea and deny hundreds of young Victorians access to a potentially life-changing service.

Sam Groth, Shadow Minister for Youth, said: “Labor cannot manage money and young Victorians are being punished as a consequence.

“This centre requires a modest amount of funding to keep its doors open. The Allan Government must now walk and talk and provide the Innovation Youth Centre the support it deserves.”

Richard Welch, MLCfor North-Eastern Metropolitan Region,said: "Colin Brooks, Lily D'Ambrosio, Bronwyn Halfpenny and Natalie Suyleman have all lined up with the Innovation Youth Centre for photo ops, but when it comes to supporting these kids, they have walked away, these kids have been abandoned.

"Labor had photo opportunities, but it is incredibly cruel and unfair to turn around and not support these vulnerable kids,” Mr Welch said.

Free waste disposal

■ Murrindindi Shire residents can dispose of their green waste, free during April , at Resource Recovery Centres in Alexandra, Yea, Kinglake, Eildon and Marysville

This includes domestic quantities of grass clippings, leaves, garden trimmings, branches, and tree trunks.

More information on green waste disposal, including what is and isn't accepted at the Centres is listed at the Council website.

Lab probable: Monty house fire

■ Mill Park Divisional Response Unit offices arrested a 34- year- old man following a house fire in Montmorency on Wednesday morning (Apr. 10).

Emergency services responded to reports of the fire at a property on Adam Crescent at about 7.30am.

The house has minor damage and what is believed to be a clandestine laboratory was located inside the property.

A Montmorency man was also found inside the premises with minor injuries.

He is ssisting with their enquiries. Investigators are treating the fire as suspicious, and investigations remain ongoing.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

● ● Grant Souter

✖Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate Grant Souter. The 47-year-old is wanted on warrant for failing to appear at court for a traffic offence. Souter is described as approximately 185cm tall, of thin build with brown hair. He is known to the frequent the Northern Suburbs, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane areas. Investigators have released an image of Souter in the hope someone may be able to provide information on his current whereabouts.

● ● Cr Damien Gallagher

✔Murrindindi Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher has praised three community ‘champions’: I’d like to acknowledge a few Murrindindi champions:

■ Sarah Hopkins and the team who delivered the inaugural Flowerdale Twilight Fun Fair – a true celebration of community, supported by Murrindindi Shire Council Flood Recovery and Community Planning officers;

■ Jess Slapp who led the series of six Intergenerational Play Group sessions, ; and

■ All of the region’s Moving Murrindindi volunteer drivers. “Council has recently been briefed on the opportunity for others to volunteer their time and skill to support the seven existing drivers across the Shire who deliver the life-changing service of transportation,” Cr Gallagher said.

✔Harriet Shing, Minister for Housing, this month turned the first sod at the site of a new $4 million social housing development in Epping. The homes are being delivered as a partnership between VincentCare Community Housing and Homes Victoria through the Labor Government’s landmark $5.3 billion Big Housing Build. The nine two and three-bedroom homes will provide safety and security for up to 23 people on the Victorian Housing Register. The homes will be managed by VincentCare Community Housing, part of St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria, which is celebrating 170 years of providing support and assistance to Victorians in need. The new homes are located within Development Victoria’s Aurora Housing development.

$1m upgrade at S. Morang Mini Ads

■ A $1 million upgrade to the Riverside Community Activity Centre and Reserve in South Morang will make the facilities more comfortable, functional and accessible for residents.

City of Whittlesea CEO Craig Lloyd joined Mill Park MLA Lily D’Ambrosio on March 27 to tour the sites.

The project, which is funded by a $500,000 contribution from the Council and $500,000 from the State Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund, is split into two stages.

The first stage is the refurbishment of the Community Activity Centre to ensure it meets the needs of current and future users.

Some of the improvements include the renovation of the consulting and lunch spaces to create an additional meeting room for people, groups and organisations to use.

The foyer area will be expanded and a kitchenette installed, while the acoustics in the community hall will be upgraded to assist those with hearing difficulties.

Work will be done to improve access to the centre’s external accessible toilet, as well as upgrades to the centre’s cladding and heating, ventilation and cooling systems.

Whittlesea Council will also continue its shift away from gas appliances as it works towards itsgoal of becoming a net zero emission municipality, by installing electric cooktops, ovens and hot water systems throughout the building.

Second stage of the project – the upgrade to Riverside Reserve – is expected to start in April and continue until the end of June.

The reserve’s social gathering place will get a makeover with the installation of a new barbecue, public furniture, drinking fountain and bike racks.

There will also be improvements to the timber access ramp to the playgrounds and refurbishment of the site’s large shelters.

Other works to be done include replacing the aged asphalt path with a concrete one, installing new precinct maps and signage, and landscaping and vegetation works.

City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said the investment in the centre and reserve underlined the Council’s commitment to providing quality community facilities at the local level.

“It is wonderful to see this level of investment, by both Council and the Victorian Government, to ensure the Riverside CAC meets the needs of its users.

“Likewise, our reserves are crucial in promoting healthy and active lifestyles among residents of all ages and abilities.

“These improvements here at Riverside Reserve will help to encourage more people to get out and about in their local neighbourhood and take advantage of everything this space has to offer,” Ms Wilson said.

URBAN TREE CANOPY TALKS

■ Opinions are being sought about the urban tree canopy in Nillumbik Shire.

Discussions are being held about the canopy in Nillumbik suburbs and townships by providing feedback on the draft Urban Tree Canopy Strategy 2024-2040

Nillumbik has the second-highest urban tree canopy cover in metropolitan Melbourne Challenges include extreme weather, changing average temperatures and rainfall patterns, bushfires and urban development continue to put pressure on our trees.

“This draft strategy seeks to protect and maintain our existing tree canopy as well as identify opportunities to enhance the canopy in areas where there are less trees,” said a Council representative.

The strategy provides a 15-year framework and has three overarching goals:

■ Goal 1: That Nillumbik’s urban canopy is protected and enhanced

■ Goal 2: That the Nillumbik community value and care for our urban canopy Goal 3: That a healthy urban canopy supports the wellbeing of the Nillumbik community. Feedback closes on Sunday, April 28.

Mernda line works

■ The State Government is ramping up a construction blitz to remove the dangerous and congested level crossing at Keon Parade a year ahead of schedule – with the new Keon Park Station on track to open in Spring.

Crews will work around the clock on the rail bridge that will take trains over Keon Parade – with buses to replace trains on sections of the Mernda Line from 9pm Tuesday, April 30 to last service Tuesday, May 7.

Trains will begin running on the new bridge on Wednesday, May 8, but will not stop at Keon Park Station while works continue on the new station. A shuttle bus will run between Ruthven and Thomastown to connect Keon Park passengers with trains. Works will continue at the new station over the next few months, including installing lifts and stairs.

In April 1984, Ash Long purchased the Yea newspaper business from Tom Dignam. Exactly 40 years on, throughout 2024, Ash Long continues his lifetime of community service as Publisher of The Local Paper. Times change. For some in the 1980s, the definition of ‘local’ was being between the two bridges in the Yea township. The local government mergers of the 1990s saw the new Murrindindi

Staff turns over at Dindi

■ There has been significant staff turnover at Murrindindi

Shire Council meetings under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Livia Bonazzi.

The following senior officers were listed as attendees of the Council meeting on March 27:

■ Chief Executive Officer: Livia Bonazzi Director People and

■ Corporate Performance: Michael Chesworth

■ Director Community and Development:

Andrew Paxton

■ Director Assets and Environment:

Caroline Lintott

■ Manager Governance and Risk: Amanda Vogt

■ Manager Development Services: Natalie Stewart

■ Manager Customer Experience:

Anna Cullen

■ Manager Economic Development:

Ben Harnwell

■ Coordinator Planning: Cameron Fraser

■ Local Development Strategy Project Manager: Allisha Milestone.

Compare that to list of senior Council officers at the March 2023 meeting, just 12 months previously:

■ Chief Executive Officer: Livia Bonazzi

■ Acting Director Corporate and Shared Services: Tara Carter

■ Interim Director Community Engagement: Kate Siebert

■ Director Assets and Development:

Vito Albicini

■ Acting Manager Governance and Risk:

David Echeverry

■ Manager Development Services: Natalie Stewart

■ Manager Sustainability and As-

Councillor is ill

sets: Peter Bain ■ Coordinator Planning: Cameron Fraser. Only three names appear at both 2023 and 2024 meetings: Ms Bonazzi, Ms Stewart and Mr Fraser. Mr Chesworth was on leave in March 2023.

Generally, high staff turnover is attributed to factors including:

■ Overwork.

■ Inconsistent management styles.

■ Lack of team member recognition.

■ Few opportunities for professional development.

■ Little to no career advancement.

■ Low salaries and low pay raises.

■ Inadequate benefits.

■ Poor company culture.

According to the international employment experts, Indeed, high employee turnover occurs when a company consistently has a high rate of employees who resign from their roles.

Several factors can cause high turnover rates, including employees feeling overworked, companies failing to offer adequate professional advancement opportunities and businesses offering insufficient pay or benefits to employees.

“Companies can prevent and reduce employee turnover rates by establishing clear guidelines for evaluation and advancement, developing feedback surveys and analysing their hiring process to find areas of improvement.”

An election for new Murrindindi Councillors is due to be held in October.

Local Photo Flashback

■ Murrindindi Shire Councillor Ilona Gerenscer as applied for leave until June 27 due to ill health. She sent an apology for her non-attendance at the March 27 meeting.

Library closed

■ The Seymour Customer and Library Service Centre was closed as Mitchell Shire Council continued to repair damage caused by a water leak.

Services such as cash facilities, borrowing library items, photocopying, and printing are still available at our other Mitchell Shire Customer and Library Service Centres during regular operating hours in Broadford, Kilmore and Wallan.

The Council has apologised for the disruption, and it is working to get the facility back up and running as soon as possible.

Chosen for talks

■ Melissa Crane, Mansfield Shire Council, General Manager Infrastructure and Planning, was selected to participate in a panel discussion on behalf of the Women in Planning Network for the Planning Institute of Australia’s Rural Regional and Remote Conference 2024

Ms Crane said it was an honour to be asked to present as a member on the panel, which was themed ‘Coming together in a time of change – networking and success.’

“The virtual conference brought together planners from throughout rural and regional Australia, with the program focusing on the latest rural planning trends and thought leadership from across Australia,” Ms Crane said.

Drop Off Days

■ Yarra Ranges residents will have the ability to dispose of old textile products such as clothes, towels, sheets, shoes, blankets and other unwanted fabrics for free as part of Council’s Textile Recycling Drop Off Days

This new trial project will take place over two events, one in Lilydale and one in Wandin East, where local people will need to book their spot in advance to drop off their unwanted items.

These donated items will then be taken away and recycled into new materials, such as carpet underlay, insulation and furniture filler.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Sophie Todorov, said that the trial program would be a winwin for the community and the environment.

“We all know that we need to do what we can to reduce the amount of waste we are sending to landfill,” Cr Todorov said.

“Projects such as these are a great way to declutter or empty your house of unwanted items and have them go into something that is practical that can be used elsewhere.

“Of course, if you have perfectly good clothes that can be donated to charities, please continue to do so, but for those things that have reached their end of life, I highly encourage our community to get behind this program to ensure its success.”

This project is supported by the Circular Economy Councils Fund. The Fund is delivered by Sustainability Victoria under the State Government’s circular economy policy, Recycling Victoria: a new economy

New roof for netball

■ Construction of a roof for courts one and two at Diamond Creek netball courts is underway.

The roof construction is funded via $1 million from the State Government and a $652,400 Nillumbik Council contribution.

The addition of a roof over the two courts enables matches to be played in all weather. A new pavilion and upgrades to lighting have been completed in recent years.

The roof will be skillion design to complement the existing netball pavilion with the installation of a Wonderglass facade at one end, which will allow natural light to filter through while providing additional protection from the elements. The six other courts remain open for use during this

Steering Group

■ The Strathbogie Tableland Local Emergency Action Plan (LEAP) Steering Group will host its first community meeting with a lunch on Sunday April 21.

This free community lunch will be where residents can learn more and have their say on a range of local emergency management issues. This gathered information will form Strathbogie’s own LEAPing into Resilience document.

As part of the project, the Strathbogie community meeting comes after the same process has been successfully undertaken in Violet Town, Avenel and Euroa and is in the initial stages for the Nagambie community. Strathbogie Shire Council Administrator Peter Stephenson said the LEAP Program is a fantastic way for the community to document and manage their own emergency.

“The LEAP project team has worked closely with three of our communities Violet Town, Avenel and Euroa to complete their plans and I encourage Strathbogie Tableland residents to assist their steering group with their emergency preparedness feedback for their town.

“Locals possess valuable knowledge, such as escape routes and identifying vulnerable community members, which is essential in crafting effective emergency action plans tailored to each community’s needs,” he said.

The steering groups have received guidance from Danna Lezcano, the project’s Resilience Planning Officer, and Mark Leitinger, the Emergency Management Officer for Strathbogie Shire Council.

The plans will remain dynamic, subject to annual amendments, ensuring their relevance and efficacy.

Collaboration among the municipalities of Strathbogie, Mansfield and Murrindindi has been instrumental in supporting communities to prepare for emergencies, including extreme weather events, and other disasters.

RSVP by April 17 (with any dietary or accessibility requirements) to: Danna Lezcano (Resilience Planning Officer) Email: dlezcano@murrindindi.vic.gov.au or phone: 5772 0333 .

ANZAC Day times

■ ANZAC Day (Apr. 25) commemorative services in Nillumbik will be held at dawn, the time of the original landing of our troops in Gallipoli in 1915.

Councillors will be attending services across the Shire on ANZAC Day

■ Thursday April 25, 6am. Montmorency Eltham RSL ANZAC Day Dawn Service. Eltham Cenotaph, 903 Main Rd, Eltham

■ Thursday April 25, 10am. Hurstbridge RSL Sub-Branch ANZAC Day Service. ANZAC Memorial Park, Hurstbridge, 910 Heidelberg-Kinglake Road, Hurstbridge

■ Thursday April 25, 10.30am. Montmorency Eltham RSL ANZAC Day Family Service. :Eltham Cenotaph, 903 Main Rd, Eltham

■ Thursday April 25, 10.30am. Diamond Creek RSL Sub-Branch ANZAC Day Service. Diamond Creek War Memorial, Reserve Circuit, Diamond Creek

■ Thursday April 25, 10.45am. Friends of Kangaroo Ground War Memorial Park Inc. ANZAC Day Service. Kangaroo Ground War Memorial Park, Eltham-Yarra Glen Road, Kangaroo Ground

■ Thursday April 25, 10.45am. Warrandyte RSL Sub-Branch ANZAC Day Service. Cenotaph in the grounds of the RSL, Warrandyte. 113 Brackenbury St, Warrandyte

Greenhill plan

■ Development of the Greenhill Recreation Precinct is a step closer with Mitchell Shire Council starting community consultation on the master plan.

The Council is seeking community input on plans for the site that include aquatics, indoor recreation, multi-use courts, sports ovals, open spaces and walking tracks to address the increased demand for recreational facilities in Wallan

Community consultation closes at 9am on Monday, May 13.

■ Murrindindi Shire Council is inviting people to join the official opening of the exhibition titled ‘Let Me Be Myself – The Life Story of Anne Frank’ at 11am on Saturday, April 27, at 11am at the Alexandra Library.

This exhibition, produced by the Anne Frank House, brings to life the touching story of Anne Frank, a Jewish German girl, and victim of the Holocaust, who is now famous for keeping a diary of her experiences while she and her family were in hiding, avoiding Nazi persecution.

The exhibition is being held at the library from May 1 to June 29 during usual library opening hours and entry is free. It is suitable for families and highlights prejudice, and discriminatory issues then and now through young voices.

‘Let Me Be Myself’ includes eight historical modules that weave Anne Frank’s personal story with the broader context of her time.

Visitors will gain insight into her joyful childhood in Frankfurt , her immigration to Amsterdam, and her life in hiding.

The exhibition also sheds light on the rise of the National Socialists, the Holocaust, and the impact of anti-Jewish measures.

Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher said “We are delighted to bring this incredible exhibition to Murrindindi Shire and host it at our wonderful Alexandra Library.”

Local hospitals: millions cut Exhibition to open at Alex.

■ Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish has slammed the Allan State Labor Government for their cuts to regional hospitals.

Regional and rural health services across the Hume Region, including local hospitals are facing forced amalgamations, service cuts and closures as the Government slashes millions in unding.

“ Labor cannot manage money, cannot manage our health system and Victorians are paying the price.”

Weeks ahead of the upcoming State Budget, reports have indicated Labor is forcing unrealistic savings targets on all of Victoria’s 76 health services, including Alexandra District Health, Yea & District Memorial Hospital and Mansfield District Hospital which will collectively see millions cut over coming years.

Uni hub funds declined

■ A funding application to have a university hub in Murrindindi Shire has been declined, Cr John Walsh told the latest Council meeting.

“It was with some regret that we learned that our application for a grant from the initial round of funding for Regional University Study Hubs had been unsuccessful,” Cr Walsh told the March 27 meeting.

“I again thank Andrew Paxton and the Economic Development Team and the community members of the working group and Interim Board for all their efforts in getting the application together and submitted in such a short period.

“We knew from the start that going for Round 1 was a long shot but the experience and the feedback we shall be seeking from the Commonwealth Department, will put us in a good position to refine and improve our application for the second round later this year.

“I am also confident that we’ll be able to get even greater support from across the Shire as the requirement to provide tertiary training opportunities for our young people will not be able to be ignored,” Cr Walsh said.

Website feedback

■ Murrindindi Council is making improvements to its website to help the public access the information that it needs.

“As part of this process, we're conducting a navigation test to check if our potential changes are on the right track,” said a Council representative.

“Whether you visit our website regularly, every now and then, or hardly at all - your opinion matters to us.

“By participating in the navigation test, you'll be playing a crucial role in shaping future improvements to our website.

“The test will only take a few minutes of your time but will provide us with valuable feedback,” the Murrindindi Council representative said.

Electrical works

■ Strathbogie Shire Council intends to carry out tree trimming around electric lines in the townships of Avenel and Euroa

The works schedule is as follows, weather pending:

■ beginning no earlier than April 15,

■ completed by May 15.

Stand for Council

■ The Municipal Association of Victoria’s Stand for Council session, taking place at the Lilydale Civic Centre on Thursday, May 9.

This free session, targeted at community members who are interested in running in this year’s Yarra Ranges Council Election, will provide participants information about:

■ Local government and the important role councils play for ocal communities

■ The role and responsibility of a Councillor, Mayor, Deputy Mayor and CEO

■ The election process and candidate requirements

■ What newly elected councillors can expect soon after the elections

■ Councillor training and development opportunities

Participants will also hear from a panel of current Council CEO’s, including Tammi Rose from Yarra Ranges Council, while having the opportunity to ask the panel any questions about what it means to be a Councillor.

Youth Mayor named

■ The City of Whittlesea’s first Youth Mayor and Deputy Youth Mayor have been announced, leading the new Youth Council in the first year of their two-year term.

Sixteen-year-old Zachary Melvaine was elected as Youth Mayor, while 19-year-old Kaynat Virk was elected as Deputy Youth Mayor.

Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson congratulated the pair on their appointment.

“We are very excited to have our very first Youth Mayor and Deputy Youth Mayor on board, who will take on a leadership role within the Youth Council,” Ms Wilson said.

“The Youth Council will be providing an important voice to Council on matters that affect young people within our community, including health and wellbeing, environment and climate change, employment and education, accessibility and inclusion.”

Sustainable Homes

■ Sustainable House Day – The Nillumbik Trail will be held on Sunday, April 21.

Residents with sustainable houses open their doors to show visitors how to make their homes more comfortable and less expensive to run.

Houses on this year’s tour are located in Hurstbridge, Research, Eltham, St Andrews and nearby in Montmorency

Deputy Mayor Cr Karen Egan said Sustainable House Day is an opportunity to gain insight and inspiration into sustainable home features.

“Not only can you tour local houses that have incorporated sustainable features on a large and small scale, but you can also chat with the owners,” Cr Egan said.

Attendance is free but you must book your tours before the event.

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Yea Golf Club

■ Saturday saw 26 men compete in the Yea Golf Club Monthly Medal for April in beautiful autumn weather.

Winner of the day with 83 off the stick nett 68 was Brendan ‘Trout’ Chenhall

This is the second monthly medal for him this year having won in February as well. Second was ever reliable Rick Wills (8) with nett 71. Third was Paul Clayton (10) with nett 74 from fourth Rob O’Halloran (22) nett 76 and Kevin Coghlan (22) fifth nett 77. There was no NTP on the 11th and John Renehan won the Club Award. Putting was won by John Phillips with 24 putts.

There were six ladies on Saturday also playing a stroke event with Meryl Connell (28) nett 73 winning the day. Second was Di Holdsworth (27) with nett 79.

Friday night saw about 30 people attend the putting competition, golf quiz and pizza night at the Club. Many thanks to Phil Armstrong and his helpers for organising such a fabulous night. Sharon Grogan won the Yea Meats meat raffle.

Wednesday golf for 15 men saw a stableford event conducted. Many are now happy that school holidays are over as young Tom White (20) thrashed all with 44 stableford points. He had 82 off the stick including three birdies.

His playing partners described it as one of the best rounds of golf they had seen. Tom is currently also playing Pennant for the club being undefeated in his matches up to this Sunday.

Unfortunately his run ended this Sunday at Marysville versus Eildon losing his match 3/2. The others however won with Rick Wills winning 3/2, John Phillips 4/2, Tony Rule 5/ 4 and Greg Clements 3/2 to record a 4/1 for Yea.

Further results from last Wednesday saw Bill Dredge (21) on CB with 33 points being runner-up with Paul Clayton (10) third. NTP on the 11th, Tom White ( one of his birdies). Club Award went to John Renehan.

The Club is running a special new membership deal. Signup now and receive a 14 month membership for the yearly price. From now til the end of June 2025.

Next Thursday Yea is hosting the Dalhousie Vets. Hope to see as many Yea locals as possible at this event. Next Saturday (Apr. 20) sees the Men/Mixed Foursomes Championships being held. Find a partner and book in. There are still spaces for three men at the Autumn Golf Trip to Melbourne Airport GC on Tuesday, April 30. If interested please let Alan Pell know as soon aqs possible.

At Lillydale Lake

■ Yarra Ranges Council has adopted its Lillydale Lake Master Plan, with 15 years of improvements and projects mapped out.

The Councillors endorsed the document on Tuesday last week (Apr. 9) following engagement on the draft Master Plan in mid2023.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Sophie Todorov, thanked the community for sharing their thoughts on the draft.

“Last year, we undertook extensive consultation on the Lillydale Lake Draft Master Plan, and heard from hundreds of community members who told us what they thought, and what they wanted to see more of,” Cr Todorov said.

“Community members told us about the need for additional parking and toilets, for improved playspaces and recreational youth spaces, more shelters and benches, and other improvements around the park, such as wayfinding and connections with paths and trails.

“We’ve taken on a lot of this feedback and updated the Master Plan accordingly. There are some suggestions that we weren’t able to take on, but we feel that this master plan sets us in good stead for the next 15 years of projects.

“I strongly encourage community members to have a read of the final document to find out what we have planned.”

“Engagement was held between April and June 2023, with online surveys, letters dropped to some local addresses, information sent to activity providers and groups, drop-in sessions, and meetings.”

CREEKERS PUSH THROUGH

■ Diamond Creek survived an early Thomastown surge to finish 31-point winners in their NFNLDivision 2 battle at Main Street Recreation Reserve.

The Bears led by two points at half time before the Creekers took back control of the game, kicking the last six goals of the match to prevail 12.11 (83) to 7.10 (52).

As he had done many times last year, Jacob Booth was the key to the Creekers’ fightback in the second half. He won many clearances and provided lots of run for his side, also finishing the afternoon with a major.

Goals were hard to come by for Diamond Creek in the first half as their initial inaccuracy in front of goal threatened to haunt them, however Daniel Jarvis led the way inside 50 with three second half goals to help the visitors break away in the third term.

Meanwhile at the other end of the ground, Joel Randall was the standout, helping the Creekers get back to their defensive best in the second half by taking multiple intercept grabs at some of the most pivotal points of the match.

Kyle Green backed up an impressive Thomastown debut last week with another strong showing for his side on Saturday, producing a dazzling display in the midfield and kicking three majors for the game, one of which was an incredible banana kick from the boundary in the first quarter.

The same can be said for Nick Jolly, who took some great contested marks and provided some great assistance to Jarryd Coulson in the ruck.

The first quarter belonged to 2023 competition leading goalkicker James Lucente, who got back to his best after registering just one major last week, by kicking three opening term goals.

Thomastown kicked three of the first four goals of the game before Diamond Creek started to pick up some momentum as the quarter drove on.

They led by under a goal before Lucente’s third major on the quarter time siren gave Thomastown the early advantage.

A competitive second term followed but it was again the Bears who started the better of the two sides, with majors from Green and Aaron D’Angelo giving the home team a 17-point buffer three minutes into the quarter.

From then on however, Diamond Creek again turned the momentum back to their favour, winning more territory and more possession to put Thomastown on the backfoot.

Inaccuracy in front of goal prevented Andrew Tranquilli’s men from taking the lead at any stage of the term, however two majors courtesy of Andrew White at the 12 minute mark, and Tyler Barnes just moments before half time, made it a two-point ball game at the main break.

The Creekers would produce the important opening goal of the second half just six minutes into the third. The Bears could only answer with behinds momentarily, before each side traded goals midway through the quarter, resulting in multiple lead changes before time on.

Green’s third goal of the afternoon at the 12minute mark was Thomastown’s seventh, but it would prove to be their last major of the match, with Diamond Creek’s defensive efforts going up a notch.

The Bears were unable to find any easy avenues to goal, while the Creekers fired the last three majors of the term to go into the final change 13 points to the good.

The intensity that had been evident in the first three quarters of the match was not as prominent in the final term, as Diamond Creek were able to take the sting out of the contest with their possession game through the backline.

They were able to extend the lead to a then game-high 19 points, before slotting two further goals to keep the Bears without a major in the final term, securing a 31-point triumph in the process.

- Jack Traianou/NFNL

Eagles capitalise

■ Whittlesea continued their unbeaten start to the NFNL Division 2 season after a 13-point triumph over an inaccurate St Mary’s outfit at Whatmough Park.

The Burra had multiple opportunities to lead

● ● Diamond Creek 12.11 (83) d Thomastown 7.10 (52)

the match on the scoreboard throughout the afternoon, but inaccuracy saw them kick 25 behinds, including 10 in the final term, to fall short 10.14 (74) to 6.25 (61).

Whittlesea captain Xavier Dimasi was excellent throughout the afternoon, with his ability to win the contested ball on multiple occasions a highlight for the visitors, while Taidgh Bland too impressed with his run and carry.

For St Mary’s, Joseph Maggio continued his good form, with his return to the backline pivotal in the Burra’s effort to stay in the contest. Mitchell Green played well in the defensive half also while John Desmond was a solid contributor in midfield.

Jeremiah Antypas was named as the Burra’s best for the match, finishing with three of his side’s six goals.

He would also produce the first major of the afternoon just 30 seconds into the contest after converting a set shot. St Mary’s second goal came moments later thanks to some brilliant transition from defence, which finished with Lachlan Read kicking true to give the Burra a hot start.

Fabian Carelli’s men would dominate territory for most of the opening term but could only muster a four-point quarter time lead for their efforts.

The visitors were the ones to capitalise early in the second term thanks to three straight goals.

Higgins was again the benefactory of a pinpoint inside 50 entry, this time from Lucas Hobbs. He converted before Prestopino slotted through two goals in a matter of minutes to suddenly give the Eagles the advantage.

A bone crunching tackle from bland led to a scuffle, resulting in a free kick to reigning Division 2 best and fairest Tane Cotter who got the Burra’s first goal of the term.

The Eagles would lead by 15 points at the main break, but that margin was soon cut down to nine within minutes of the third term getting underway, after a nice effort which saw Huon MacGibbon tap’s read perfectly by Desmond who then found Nicholas Green for his side’s fourth goal of the game.

Whittlesea had their chances to put the game to bed early in the final quarter, missing three shots at goal within the first five minutes.

Eventually Dimasi would get the all-important major, snapping truly to make it a 13-point game. The Burra were looking more dangerous as the quarter went on, threatening to reduce the margin and even take the lead, but their struggles in front of goal ultimately proved costly in claiming victory, as they produced 1.10 for the term.

A brilliant bit of play from Lachlan ShinMahony gave the Eagles a bit of breathing room, as Whittlesea’s late inclusion displayed a classy blind turn and combined for a one-two before finding Prestopino who slotted his third major of the day. Clancy Bland would then goal moments later to seal the Eagles’ second triumph of the season. - NFNL

Alex. season starts

■ Senior football training is at 6pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Rebel Park, senior netball training at 6pm on Thursdays at Rebel Park. Everyone is welcome.

The Outer East season started last Saturday (April 13) with Alexandra hosting Yea in games of football and netball at Rebel Park

On Thursday, April 18, theClub will have junior and senior football and netball training as usual followed by junior and senior sittings for meals.

At around 8pm the Club is hosting a comedy evening with two Melbourne based comedians – Evan Hocking and Tom Siegert, coming to Rebel Park to entertain us, free entry and everyone is welcome.

Round 2 on Saturday, April 20, Al;exandra travels to Warburton Millgrove , before Round 3 on April 27 being the ANZAC round, and Alexandra will host Powelltown at Rebel Park

The Club, working together with the Alexandra RSL, is celebrating the ANZAC spirit as well as grass roots sport and community with everyone asked to pay the regular $10 entry as a minimum, the proceeds going to the Alexandra RSL

There will be an ANZAC commemoration at 2pm, a complimentary afternoon tea at half time of the senior football and everyone is invited to come along and support the community event.

The Club Dream Team Auction will also be held in the social rooms in the evening. Membership and sponsorship options are available with $100 Adult Membership, $150 Family Membership and $200 Patron Membership, $600 Rebel Raiser Sponsor together with Business, Corporate, Executive and Major Sponsor packages available.

So if you would like to support the Club, please contact Ray Steyger on 5772 2627. Do not forget to order your Club merchandise – polo shirts, warm up shirts @ $50, hoodies, vests @$70, netball top@ $40, Club stubby holders @ $10, travel mugs @ $15, peaked caps and beanies @$25, bumper stickers are free.

Junior football and netball training continues on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at Rebel Park , so check with your coach to confirm times and days for your particular team.

- Ray Steyger

Clocked at 166-kmh

■ Greensborough Police officers have charged a man after he was caught speeding in Bundoora.

It is understood the man was captured by a laser speed measuring device, driving 166kmh in a 70-kmh zone on Plenty Rd about 4.40am.

Police intercepted the vehicle which had five occupants.

The driver was charged with reckless conduct endanger serious injury, drive at speed dangerous and exceed the speed limit. He has been bailed to appear at Heidelberg Magistrates Court at a later date.

Stadium honour

■ A new stadium at Mansfield Secondary College will honour former student and world champion snowboarder, Alex Pullin Ban Carroll, Minister for Education, announced the sportsground will be officially named the Alex Pullin Stadium, following the local community casting more than 1000 votes on a shortlist of proposed names of the new stadium.

Alex ‘Chumpy’ Pullin was a former student of Mansfield Secondary College, and a two-time World Champion and Olympic snowboarder – having competed at the 2010, 2014 and 2018 Winter Olympics

The Alex Pullin Stadium will be a lasting legacy for the athlete and his family following his tragic death in 2020 at the age of 32.

The stadium opened in 2022 and construction was funded by the State Government and Mansfield Shire Council.

Mansfield Secondary College has also receiving $3.4 million in the Victorian Budget 2016-17 to build a new STEM centre complete with new science labs, general learning and visual art spaces.

ALL HOURS ALL HOURS ALL HOURS ALL HOURS ALL HOURS

Offering a caring Offering a caring Offering a caring Offering a caring Offering a caring and pr and pr and pr and pr and professional ofessional ofessional ofessional ofessional service service service service service

CASEY DONOVAN TO STAR IN SISTER ACT

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■ In the biggest role of her career to date, Casey Donovan has been confirmed to lead the cast of the most heavenly of musicals, Sister Act, when it opens at the Regent Theatre in Melbourne from November.

Joining Casey in donning the habit will be the much-loved Genevieve Lemon in the role of Mother Superior.

“Although I never thought I would see the day when I put on a habit, I’m so incredibly excited to be joining Sister Act and to be playing the lead role of Deloris Van Cartier, played by the iconic Whoopi Goldberg in the much-loved films,” said Casey Donovan “Growing up, Sister Act was one of the movies that I watched on repeat. I love the film and am truly honoured to be part of such an uplifting, joyful, fun and feel-good production featuring the brilliant original music by multiple Tony Award-winning composer Alan Menken,” she added.

Based on the iconic film starring Whoopi Goldberg and featuring original music by Tony and eight-time Oscar award-winner Alan Menken (Disney’s Aladdin, Enchanted, The Little Mermaid), and songs inspired by Motown, soul and disco, this heavenly musical is joyous and uplifting in equal measures.

Disco diva Deloris’s life takes a surprising

turn when she witnesses a murder. Placed under protective custody she is hidden in the one place she shouldn’t be found – a convent. Encouraged to help the struggling choir, she helps her fellow sisters find their true voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.

Casey Donovan is one of Australia’s most versatile entertainers, making her mark not only as a musician, but also in the areas of stage, screen, presenting and writing.

She is a multi-award winner and nominee, including Deadly Awards, ARIA #1 Award, Double and Triple Platinum selling recording artist and has starred in theatrical productions including The Sapphires, The Flowerchildren, Opera Yarrabah, As You Like It, Rent, We Will Rock You, Chicago, 9 To 5 The Musical and & Juliet.

On screen from the age of 16, Casey was the youngest winner of Australian Idol and has since appeared in the TV series StreetSmart, How To Stay Married, What Does Australia Really Think? and crowned Queen of the Jungle in I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here.

Genevieve Lemon has appeared in many premiere Australian productions in a 40-plus year career including Steaming, Steel Magnolias, Seventeen, Miracle City, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Billy Elliot.

● ● ● ● Casey Donovan and Genevieve Lemon. Photo: Benny Capp

Melbournewide

POINT COOK Centre expands

■ Wyndham City is undertaking an expansion of the Jamieson Way Community Centre and Reserve.

This $11 million project is being delivered in three stages and includes:

■ Stage 1A – construction of a third kindergarten room, expansion of the existing kindergarten outdoor play area and redevelopment of the Maternal and Child Health spaces.

■ Stage 1B – a new multipurpose community meeting space, consolidated staff office, community kitchen and redeveloped entrance and reception area.

■ Stage 2. Compact sports venue. Outdoor sports courts. Stage 2 of the Master Plan is subject to funding in line with the Long-Term Financial Plan.

This expansion is being delivered in line with the Jamieson Way Community Centre and Reserve Master Plan that Wyndham Council adopted in April 2022, and will create a fit-for-purpose facility to better meet the needs of the growing Point Cook community

TRENTHAM

Spudfest soon

■ There’s plenty to celebrate and enjoy in the township of Trentham, from its rich red volcanic soil to its historic main street, but this May, it’s the humble spud will capture the spotlight, reports the Moorabool News.

“The 16th Great Trentham Spudfest will hit the historic town of Trentham, and surrounding districts, across May 4 and 5, bringing together local potato growers, artisans, music, food vendors, and local history,” said festival coordinator Kye Theobald

“Spudfest 2024 promises to be bigger and better than ever before, celebrating our region’s potato culture and history, but most of all, our community.”

- Moorabool News

CARDINIA

Gambling move

■ The Cardinia community is being invited to provide feedback on a draft document aimed at reducing gambling harm in the local community.

Input provided will help shape the final version of Cardinia Shire Council’s Gambling Harm Prevention and Minimisation Policy

The community is invited to view the policy and provide feedback via an online survey on Council’s Creating Cardinia website (www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay) The feedback period closes on Tuesday, April 30. Feedback on the draft policy can also be made via letter or email.

This is the final stage of community consultation on the revised policy. It follows two previous stages that took place via the Community Household Liveability Survey in mid-2023, as well as engagement in late-2023 with key stakeholders from electronic gaming venues and in the health and social services sectors.

STONNINGTON

Excessive music

■ Chapel Street venue Peachy Lopez Pty Ltd, trading as Three Monkeys , pleaded guilty to charges relating to excessive music noise levels contravening a planning permit, at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court. The venue was fined $750 without conviction and made to pay an $8000 costs order in the matter of Stonnington City Council vs Peachy Lopez Pty Ltd.

City of Stonnington Mayor , Cr Joe Gianfriddo, said that the Council takes contraventions of planning permits seriously and entertainment venue operators must adhere to their planning permit conditions. Failure to do so can lead to a planning infringement notice or enforcement action.

“Council’s planning investigation officers carry out regular late-night inspections of entertainment venues, especially in the Chapel Street precinct, to ensure that venues are complying with their planning permits and that residents are not being detrimentally affected by excessive music noise,” he said.

STOLEN CREDIT CARDS USED IN SPENDING SPREE

● ● Police want to speak with this woman about use of stolen credit cards.

■ Police are appealing for public assistance to identify two thieves who used a stolen credit card to purchase items in Dandenong

Police have been told an unknown man and woman stole the credit card from a parked car on Fugosia St, Doveton. Officers believe the stolen cards were then used to purchase items at multiple petrol stations in the Dandenong and Dandenong South areas.

Police have released images of a man and a woman who they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.

The woman perceived to be Caucasian in appearance, in her early 20s and is of slim build.

She was wearing an orange hooded jumper and black leggings.

The man is also perceived to be Caucasian in appearance, and is of slim build with brown hair and a moustache.

He was wearing an orange hooded jumper, a black T-shirt and grey tracksuit pants.

MANSFIELD Fatal crash

■ Police are investigating a fatal collision in Mansfield on Thursday afternoo, April 4.

It is believed that a truck collided with a car near the intersection of Mount Buller Rd and Mansfield-Woods Point Rd about 3pm.

The driver of the car died at the scene. The passenger was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

The driver of the truck stopped at the scene and was assisting police with their enquiries.

WESTERN SUBURBS

4 charged

■ Detectives from the Financial Crime Squad have charged four men as part of an investigation into an organised crime syndicate allegedly committing a series of complex frauds and deceptions totalling almost $4 million.

Statewide Observer Melbourne

SEYMOUR

Crashed into tree

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash in Seymour on Thursday morning, April 4.

It is believed a vehicle was travelling along Kobyboyn Rd when it crashed into a tree about 7.30am.

The driver, a sole occupant of the vehicle, died at the scene.

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

WARRNAMBOOL New clubhouse

■ Golf enthusiasts can now enjoy a new multi-million dollar facility in the heart of Warrnambool.

The Warrnambool Golf Club opened its modern clubhouse and its members couldn’t be prouder.

Originally anticipated to cost around $5.5 million, estimates have now put the project at closer to $7.5 million.

“We had a strategic plan back in 2019 to develop a concept and feasibility study for a new clubhouse,” said Ashlee Scott, Club General Manager.

- Warrnambool Weekly

Investigators will allege the syndicate was fraudulently obtaining or attempting to obtain mobile phones – worth over $2.5 million – which were subsequently shipped overseas, primarily to Russia

During the 18-month investigation, Police also uncovered two allegedly fraudulently obtained mortgages and a fraudulently obtained vehicle worth at least $1.36 million.

The quartet was arrested by Police and collectively charged with almost 100 offences, including:

■ A 38-year-old Keilor Downs man, who was charged with 37 counts of obtain property by deception, knowingly deal proceeds of crime and deal property suspected proceeds of crime,

■ A 33-year-old Taylors Lakes man, who was charged with 37 counts of obtain property by deception, three counts of obtain financial advantage by deception, knowingly deal proceeds of crime and three counts of deal property suspected proceeds of crime,

■ A 32-year-old Sydenham man, who was charged with negligently deal proceeds of crime and deal property suspected proceeds of crime, and

■ A 69-year-old Melton man, who was charged with 12 counts of obtain property by deception, recklessly deal proceeds of crime and deal property suspected proceeds of crime.

All four were bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on April 8.

MORN. PENINSULA Visitor bid

■ Mornington Peninsula Shire has announced its newest tourism initiative: The Magical Mornington Peninsula – Taste, Play, Stay campaign.

In collaboration with local tourism businesses, The Magical Mornington Peninsula is a showcase of experiences that embody the core of Taste, Play and Stay.

Running through April to July, this campaign invites both the community and visitors to explore further and stay longer, designed to help counter seasonal visitor fluctuations, and inspire year-round exploration.

SAN REMO

Target topped

■ San Remo CFA and SES, along with Jim's Bait and Tackle and the San Remo Hotel joined together for a megafundraiser for this year's Good Friday Appeal

They raised $53,000, smashing last year's total of $35,000.

The one dark cloud on an otherwise brilliant day came when someone hacked into the San Remo Hotel's Facebook page, forcing them to shut it down, so they were unable to keep promoting the fundraising efforts on social media.

- Phillip Island and San Remo Advertiser

MORWELL

News boss dies

■ Bruce Ellen, 65, Managing Director of the Latrobe Valley Express and Gippsland Times, has died of cancer.

A funeral service was held on Friday afternoon, April 5, in Morwell.

Mr Ellen, part of the family that operates the Sunraysia Daily, Midland Express and Castlemaine Mail newspapers, also had his own investments in newspapers in South Australia and Queensland.

EUROA $¼-mil. for CEO

■ Peter Stephenson will earn over a quarter of a million dollars for his role as Strathbogie Shire Council’s administrator, says the Wangaratta Chronicle.

“His ratepayer-funded remuneration of $254,300 is equal to what ratepayers would pay in one year for seven councillors,” reported journalist Darren Chaitman.

“The part-time role requires a minimum of three days of work per week, but the remuneration is not pro-rata, meaning he will be paid the full amount.

“The payment was set by Local Government Minister Melissa Horne and is detailed in an attachment to last month’s council meeting agenda.

“Mr Stephenson’s appointment as administrator began on December 6, 2023, and will end on the day of the next council election, which will take place in October 2024.”

- Wangaratta Chronicle

EAST GIPPSLAND

Telstra collaborates

■ “The ongoing collaborative work between East Gippsland Shire Council and Telstra continued with a visit from chief executive officer Vicki Brady and her team, and representatives from NBNCo,” reported the Bairnsdale Advertiser.

“The thought-provoking update and discussions included an overview of some of the changes that have been made to the delivery of telecommunication services in the region since the 2019-20 fires, including infrastructure upgrades to facilitate 3G to 4G/ 5G, and the delivery of a further 18 new mobile sites coming online in East Gippsland, thanks in part to advocacy efforts.

“The discussion also focused on some of recent learnings from the recent storm event where power failures led to extensive telecommunications outages and the information isolation of many communities.

“Telstra was able to indicate a strong understanding of the needs of the community and shared some of the work they are trialling to improve services to East Gippslanders.”

- Bairnsdale Advertiser

‘Monstrously severe’ 10-year sentences

■ Ten-year sentences of transportation were given to nine local Aboriginal men in 1841 after they were found guilty of robbery at Muddy Creek (Yea).

The Port Phillip Patriot newspaper (Jan. 7, 1841) reported:

“The sittings of the Court of Quarter Sessions commenced on Monday, and terminated yesterday.

“The only case of any general interest which came be fore the Court was the following :

“Tarruk-munnin, Nandermiel, Loger-ma-koon, Piengingoon, Kowin-yowlett, Waverong, and four other Aborigines were put to the bar, before a remarkably full bench of magistrates, charged with robbing a station belinging to Mr. P. Snodgrass, on the Muddy Creek, of some flour, mutton, nnd other articles.

“The information contained three counts.

“The first charging the prisoner Tarrak-munnin as a principal in the attack on the station; the second charging the other prisoners as accessories ; the third charging all the prisoners generally. :

Mr. Assistant Protector Thomas, and a young man named Davis were sworn to in terpret: Mr. De Villiers was also subsequently sworn as interpreter.

“The Crown Prosecutor, in addressing the jury, said he should make no lengthened statements as to the circumstances connected with the assault and robbery, or attempt in any degree to aggravate the case against the prisoner.

“They were ignorant of our laws, and to a great extent unprotected. He should therefore merely state to the jury what was the law in reference to stealing with violence, and proceed to call witnesses to substantiate the charge.

“Francis McCarrick stated that on the 17 th March last, a party of Aborigines came to his hut, many of them armed with guns and pistols.

“He identified six of the prisoners as being present on the occasion.

“They pushed him and a man named. Deighton into the hut. He succeeded, in getting outside.

“One of the prisoners held him and another attempted to get his gun away.

“A black named Winberry said he commanded the party. They pointed their guns at them.

“Deighton at last got out, and called upon Winberry to protect them.

“Winberry said he was no good, "he" (mean ing Deighton,) " too much yabber to mas ter. He asked for sheep, we told him we could not give them.

“He said the sheep eat the grnss belonging to his kangaroo, and white fellow took kangaroo, and what-for not give him sheep.

“He then said some thing in his own language to the blacks and one of them fired - into the air.

“Winberry then said all gone sulky, and I went to my sheep.

“They afterwards took some flour and mutton.

“On cross-examination by Mr. Barry for the prisoners, he said that when they came up he told them if they booed white man he would boo them.

“The same blacks had been at the station may times before, but they had always been peaceable. “They had visited the station

● ● Pioneering Yea settler Peter Snodgrass was ‘robbed’ by 10 Aboriginal men, a Court was told in 1841.

since, but without hostility.

“Deighton, on being examined, corroborated the evidence of M'Carrick , and pointed out Piengingoon as the black who took the flour out of the hut.

“On cross-examination he stated that he had shot one of the blacks' dogs the previous day: it was among his sheep.

“There were no black women there that day. There might have been one at the hut the day before.

:”This closed the case for the Crown

“

Mr. Barry addressed the jury in behalf of the prisoners in a forcible and eloquent peech, of which we regret we have it not in our power to give a correct report.

“The Chairman summed up the evidence, pointing out to the jury that the prisoner Waverong (who is a Port Phillip native, all the others belonging to the Goulburn tribe) was not identified by either of the witnesses.

“The jury after a few minutes consultation found all the prisoners guilty, with the exception of Waverong, who was immediately discharged.

“The sentence of the Court was that the prisoners should be transported for ten years.

“On this sentence, which we think under the peculiar circumstances of the case monstrously severe, we shall make some remarks in a future number,” said the Editor of the Port Phillip Patriot. No record can be found of the Patriot Editor raising the subject again.

The Port Phillip Gazette newspaper said that the offences had taken place on October 11, 1840, and that the aboriginal men had been confined in the interim. after the “celebrated capture” by Major Letsom In October, 1840, the Gazette had reported: “In consequence of representations having been made to the Authorities of the approach of seve ral tribes of Natives to the vicinity of

districts. “These ruffians were placed in irons and deposited in the jail, including Jagga Jagga or Jacky Jacky and Billy Hamilton

“The remain der were locked up during Sunday and the night in the newly erected store of Mr. Rattenbury, at the back of the new church, being placed under the custody of only two constables.

“The consequence was, as might have been anticipa ted, from having so slender a guard, that some thirty or forty of the men effected their escape during the night.

“They had been deprived of all their tomahawks and other implements, but nevertheless they contrived to undermine the foundation of the building, and excavated a hole sufficiently large to enable one man at a time to creep through.

“It seems that when every thing was ready for escape, they had sufficient sagacity to resort to a ruse for the purpose of withdraw ing the attention of the constables from the spot, which was on one side of the store, whence they meant to effect their release.

“A small number, some three or four old decrepid men, made a rush towards the entrance to the stores, which having no door was barricaded with boards nailed across.

the town (no mention of which town), for the purpose of holding a Corroborra (sic) previous to a battle, it was resolved to attempt their capture; the more especially as it had been made known that two or three of the most desperate character, (Jagga Jagga, Winberry, and Billy Hamilton) were among the tribes.

“Accordingly the Military under the command of Captain Smith and Lieutenant Vignolles of the 28th Regiment, with the Border Police headed by Major Letsom and Mr. Russell, and a number of Constables proceeded about midnight to the scene of the natives' festivities, situated between two and three miles from the town.

“Upon seeing themselves surrounded, the blacks were thrown into considerable consternation; and finding that their weapons had been seized, would have surrendered quietly, but for the opposition made by "Winberry," who, being thus entrapped, made a desperate blow at Mr. Vignolles

“He, however, missed his aim; but recovering was about to repeat the attempt before that gentleman could even draw his sword to defend himself; whereupon the sergeant discharged his musket, and this noto rious murderer and robber instantly fell.

“It appeared that the ball had passed through a main artery of the head.

“The remainder of the gang were secured, con sisting of between two and three hundred (including women and children) and were led captive into town and placed in a yard in the rear of the Military Hospital for identification, by any of the settlers as having been concerned in any outrages.

“Thirty three were picked out as having been aggressors in numerous cases of cattle and sheep stealing, as well as being concerned in several of the murders which from time to time have occurred in the interior

“One of the constables conceiving that the blacks were intending to force their way through, and it being about two o'clock in the morning, at a time when there was no possibility of obtaining any assistance, fired his musket at the ringleader whom he killed, and this decisive measure had the effect of producing instant quiet

“It was, however, very soon afterwards discovered that the whole of the men with the exception of those employed in this manoeuvre, had escaped.

“Those that remained were released at Twelve o'clock on Monday morning, and being rationed with small supplies were allowed to return to their Mia-Mia's in the bush.

“The whole of the spears and waddies found with the blacks were destroyed; and a number of muskets were taken from them.

“At the same time by direction of the government, the greater portion of their dogs were put to death.

“The thirty-three natives confined in the jail will be detained for trial, or subject to such orders as may issue from head quarters.

“In the mean time they are allowed to be inspected by those settlers who may have suffered from their depredations, for the purposes of identification,” the Gazette noted.

Lecture on Australian Aborigines

■ A lecture on the subject of Australian Aborigines was delivered by Mr Stone Parker to the John Knox Young Men’s Association in 1854.

His beliefs, perhaps challenging for the times, were reported in The Banner:

“The history of civilization in Australia is very recent. Not a century has passed since the civilizing, the Anglo-Saxon race looked upon its shores, and took possession of its soil;—not a fourth of that century has elapsed since the first house was raised in Victoria

“It was a strange land English men then first looked upon—a land of sunny skies and fertile soil; animals un known in older worlds made unwieldy gambols in her virgin prairies; birds of strange note and gaudy plumage sported in the air; trees, whose hard unflexile leaves were ignorant of winter, and had kept the trunks below clad in the same garb for centuries, grew on the plains; and quaint flowers of rare beauty welcomed the gazing eye.

“But of the chang ing, ennobling hand of man there was no trace. No house looked through its windows on the fair skies or the tall green trees.

“No towns reared their heads, where men did business one with another, selling, buying, giving money, taking money.

“The ground lay untilled and virgin, ignorant of spade or plough or harrow, even as it had been in Noah’s days.

“But though civilization wet awanting, man capable of civilization was not awanting. Australia was not unpeopled long centuries before Captain Cook took possession in the name of George the Third, or the first convict ship landed its rather ques tionable population at Sydney Cove. And among the many other strange creature

which civilised man found awaiting him in New Holland, —among the green parrots and black swans, the kangaroos, the emus, the opossums, that struck the stranger on his arrival, he found one creature whom, lower doubtless than himself in all attainments, he was forced to recognise as a fellow-man and a brother—one who, as he began to understand by and bye, could speak a language as fit for interpreting all the wants of the savage as his own more refined English was able to express his own,—one who had laws, though they might be of the rudest, which he was bound to obey, rules binding on that degraded heathen as the moral law was binding on the Christian “Or if his English visitor had learned to define man, as he has been defined, as a tool-making and tool using animal, lo ! this poor dark brother had nvented for himself, and was able to use, instruments which no then extant civilization, could have given him, and could assert his right to be regarded as a man even in this light.

“Yea ! However low in the scale of humanity—however ignorant, darkened, degraded he might be, this poor Australian was no brute ; he also was a man and a brother— a weaker, less cultivated, deeplier sunken brother.

“We are afraid that “white fellow” be haved rather cruelly at first to his darker compatriot. We fear that some of our earlier settlers were slow to believe, or to act on the belief, that those degraded abori gines were men after all, demanding from them the exercise of the Christian law, to “do unto others as we would‘they should do unto us.” Wo doubt whether the poor Australian fared much better sometimes at the hands of his more civilised fellow-man, than the kangaroo or the wild turkey,” The Banner reported.

I’m A Refugee, Get Me out Of Here

● ● Samuel

Gebreselassie

■ Award-winning Samuel Gebreselassie presents I'm a Refugee ... Get Me Out of Here in the Melbourne International Comedy Festival until Sunday, April 21 at the Chinese Museum - Tea Room in Melbourne. Sam was just a child in 1998 when his family escaped a war-torn Ethiopia for a Sudanese refugee camp, before finding themselves in New Zealand, thanks to the UN's refugee program.

Today, Sam is one of Australia's rising comedy stars, a multi-award-winning comedian and producer making his way across the ditch to share his unique origin story and outsider perspective of the world.

Performance Dates: Until Sat. April 20 at 6pm; Sun. April 21 at 5pm

Venue: Chinese Museum - Tea Room, 22 Cohen Pl, Melbourne

Duration: 50 minutes

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Pass The Parcel

■ Pass The Parcel is advertised with the phrase ‘Life can be disappointing, but does a party game have to be?’ This show lives up to this theme questioning the very essence of this popular party game, whether losing is an important lesson in life making winning sweeter, or whether the philosophy of sharing is caring is more important.

With this show we all come away winners, whether it be gaining a prize from unwrapping a layer or enjoying the clever, unique scenes presented to us.

Pass the Parcel is an original concept presented by two talented actors Meg Taranto and Elliot Wood. Both physical, energetic, personable, clever performers. It is fifty minutes of joy, and when not laughing I was smiling.

The show is a mixture of skit, stand up , physical theatre, audience interaction, game show. Whilst everyone on our night participated there is a genuine, respectful option to opt out , ‘spectate’ only.

The actors were well rehearsed, many moments relying on precision – they did not miss a beat.

There is an obvious rapport/ chemistry between these two performers ,allowing the audience to feel comfortable, being a part of the game.

Taranto and Wood both had their shining moments, Elliot with his precise ‘butter monologue’ was spot on, clever, funny, unique – a comedian to look out for in the future.

Pass The Parcel is a high energy show , funny , thought provoking, original. With many comedy acts to choose from this is certainly one to unwrap - you will not be disappointed.

- Review by Elizabeth Semmel

Media Flashes

■ Michelle Bowes has joined The Australian Financial Review as a Wealth Reporter.

■ Sue Lannin has been appointed Editor of Investment Magazine. She joins the publication after 20 years at the ABC , where she reported on financial markets and the economy for national radio and television programs.

■ Carolyn Hiblen has finished as Editorin-Chief of Foxtel Magazine

SHARE HOUSE THE MUSICAL

■ Multi award-winning singer, songwriter and comedian Jude Perl presents the premiere of Share House: the Musical at Arts Centre Melbourne's Fairfax Studio from May 16-19.

Featuring a 15-piece orchestra, the comedymusical is based on Perl’s solo show Roommates: The Musical (winner of the Green Room Award 2018 for Best Original Songs).

Share House: The Musical navigates the gruelling (and sometimes comical) complexities of house-sharing.

Joining Perl onstage is Isabelle David, and together they star as Lucy and Jane, childhood friends and long-term roommates.

Anita Mei La Terra joins the cast as Alice, a new third housemate whose persistent optimism grates on the pessimistic Jane and threatens to derail the delicately balanced household equilibrium.

Perl, Davis and Mei La Terra are joined by Jasmine Tuvey and Amie Zwag as Young Lucy and Young Jane . Direction is from Brendan Tsui.

Jude Perl says: "What's really exciting to me about the newly developed version of the show, is that those symbolic characters from Roommates: The Musical are now actual characters, being brought to life by real incredible human actors.

“The story has shifted to highlighting the value of being around people who think and live differently to you. And what better setting to talk about tolerance and acceptance than a dilapidated Melbourne share house."

Share House: The Musical is presented by Arts Centre Melbourne as part of its commitment to supporting upcoming Australian talent.

Performance Details: May 16-19

Venue: Fairfax Studio, Arts Centre Melbourne Bookings: artscentremelbourne.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Hold Me Closer

Tony Danza

■ Queensland-based dance company The Farm presents Hold Me Closer Tony Danza at Monash Performing Arts Centres for four shows from May 1-3.

Commissioned by MPAC and making its Victorian premiere, Hold Me Closer Tony Danza is an immersive dance-theatre show that confronts a world driven by information overload. Tony asks how we can still connect with each other when we feel so far apart? In line with their ethos, The Farm crosses art forms and genres to express what it is like to live in this time, on this planet.

The show suggests that a commonly misheard song lyric contains a deeper proposition about how we form meaning and a provocation that perhaps our understanding of the world is intrinsically flawed.

With a strong satirical edge, Hold Me Closer Tony Danza asks the audience to pick a side, show their true colours, and get ready for a danceoff as if their lives depend on it.

This one-hour ride asks the audience to feel brave enough to participate in the dance-off where they will sometimes be asked to stand and move around the space with seating available if required.

Hold Me Closer Tony Danza features dancer, choreographer and founding member of The Farm, Kate Harman. Kate has created and performed in works within the realms of dance, theatre, circus, performative installation and in projects created with amateurs and young people.

She is a frequent collaborator with The Farm and with them has created the works Cockfight, The Ninth Wave, Throttle and Tide. Through her work with The Farm, Kate has won a Helpmann, Drovers and most recently an Australian Dance Award.

● ● Jude Perl in Share House: The Musical. Photo: Nick Manuell choreographer Jo Lloyd, which premiered in Tempo Dance Festival 2022. Oli has also worked with Movement Art Practice in residence to research his work Full Digital Upload

Hold Me Closer Tony Danza is directed by The Farm’s co-artistic director Gavin Webber. Throughout his career, Gavin Webber has worked between Australia and Europe and directed theatre, dance, circus, film and installation. He took The Farm from regional Australia to national and international touring and back to Europe to join PVCtanz in Germany

Venue: David Li Sound Gallery, The Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts, 48 Exhibition Walk, Clayton

Performance Dates and Times: May 1 and May 3 at 7.30pm, May 2 at 1pm and 7.30pm

Pricing: $20 – $39

Bookings: https://www.monash.edu/performing-arts-centres/event/hold-me-closertony-danza/

- Cheryl Threadgold

Comedy Roulette

■ Comedy Roulette - Spin that Wheel is being presented as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival until April 21 at the Trades Hall, Carlton.

Described as a 'standup comedy show with a spontaneous twist', the audience spins the wheel and comedians crack improvised punchlines inspired by the topics the wheel lands on.

A rotating lineup of Melbourne comedians will be showcased, including those who have been on TV and radio and local comedy sensations.

Hosted by Mumbai’s Kru Harale and Estonian performer Olga Loitsenko, this show features acts such as He Huang, Mike Goldstein, Dane Simpson, Danielle Walker, Michael Shafar, Chris Ryan, Takashi Wakasugi, Rowan Thambar and many more.

Performance Dates: Until April 21 (no show on Wednesdays)

Times: Mon.-Sat .9pm, Sun. 8pm

Venue: Trades Hall, 54 Victoria St., Carlton.

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

■ Georgina Noack has started as a Senior Digital Producer at The Nightly. She was recently a Reporter for NewsLocal and, prior to that, a General News Reporter at news.com.au ●

Kate will be joined by choreographer and dancer Oli Mathieson. Oli has worked with The New Zealand Dance Company performing in What They Said, choreographed by Melbourne

●

● Digital editions of the Melbourne Observer are published weekly, FebruaryDecember. You can have a copy emailed to you, free. Take out a free subscription at:

www.FreePaper.com.au

Claire Nicholls

and Anthea Davis in Once Were Pirates.

Rive

■ Th'UnGuarded Duncan presents Once Were Pirates from April 24 - May 4 at 8pm at Bard's Apothecary, Melbourne.

Written by Emilie Collyer, directed by Kevin Hopkins and performed by Anthea Davis and Claire Nicholls, Once Were Pirates tells of Shane and Gareth who were once pirates.

Marooned by time, they are now stranded in the real world fathoming how to live. Gareth starts getting out and meeting new friends.

Shane is less keen. Civilisation is confusing and old school pirate rules don’t apply here. Can their friendship survive this new situation? Can they survive?

Once Were Pirates navigates Shane and Gareth’s voyage from their get-rich-quick scheme of winning a million-dollar booty in a game show, to Gareth accepting the need to fit in with this new landlubber society, pitted against Shane’s inability to do the same. All the while, these seadogs unwillingly careen toward a bitter-sweet conclusion.

Staged in a modest theatre space, the strength of this play is said to be Shane and Gareth’s relationship. Even as they cavort and fight, their connection to one another is undeniable.

Once Were Pirates includes singing, sword fighting, and a stuffed parrot. It’s about trying to make good and asks if we can ever really change who we are?

Content Warning: Strong Language

Performance Season: April 24-May 4 at 8pm

Venue: Bard’s Apothecary, 7/24 Crossley St., Melbourne.

Bookings: www.trybooking.com

- Cheryl Threadgold

Bloomsday

■ Bookings are now open for Bloomsday in Melbourne 's new play Samuel Beckett and the Rainbow Girl, being presented from June 13-23 at St Martins Theatre, South Yarra.

Written by Steve Carey and directed by Carl Whiteside , this centrepiece of Bloomsday in Melbourne 2024 the play tells the story of James Joyce's talented daughter Lucia, her passion for dance and her doomed love affair with Samuel Beckett.

Set in Paris in the late 1920s, Lucia, muse and only daughter of notorious banned novelist James Joyce, is poised to succeed as a daringly original dancer.

Into this dysfunctional artistic household arrives alluring young Dubliner Samuel Beckett, an enigmatic, hyper-educated writer seeking his own literary voice.

He finds himself drawn into the older writer's web, and at the same time becomes the reluctant subject of Lucia's increasingly obsessive amorous gaze.

A series of romantic misunderstandings, at first comic but increasingly tragic, strip Lucia of her nascent career and, her family and love interest both lost to her, she spirals into madness.

Performance Dates: June 13 - 23

Venue: St Martins Theatre, 28 St Martins Lane, South Yarra

Bookings: bloomsdayinmelbourne.org.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

(left)

Photo: Tony

Shows

■ The 1812 Theatre: The Fire Raisers (by Max Frisch, translated by Alistair Beaton)

Until April 27 at The 1812 Theatre, Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Andrew Ferguson. Bookings: www.1812theatre. com.au

■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: The Last Quiz Night on Earth (by Alison Carr)

Until April 20 at Warrandyte Mechanics Institute, 180 Yarra St., Warrandyte. Director: Bob Bramble. Bookings: https:// www.trybooking.com/CKUCN

■ Frankston Theatre Group: Pack of Lies (by Hugh Whitemore) Until April 21 at the Mount Eliza Community Hall, 90-100 Canadian Bay Rd, Mount Eliza. Director: David Dodd. Bookings: frankstontheatregroup. org.au

■ Gemco Players: Millie’s War, Until April 28 at The Gem Theatre, 19 Kilvington Drive, Emerald. Bookings and further details: www.gemcoplayers.org

■ 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) April 18 – 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) April 18 – May 4 at The Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre, 39-41 Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Alan Burrows. Bookings: www.lilydale atc.com Phont: 9735 1777.

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Berlin (by Joanna Murray-Smith) April 19 – 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) April 19 – May 4 at the Woodbin Theatre, 15 Coronation St., Geelong West. Director: Robyn Birrell. Bookings: Geelong Arts Centre 1300 251 200 geelongartscentre.org.au

■ Moonlite Theatre/Bacchus Marsh and Melton District Community Theatre: Ouch! (by William Alexander) April 19 – 20 at Holy Trinity Anglican Church Hall, 19 Gisborne Rd., Bacchus Marsh. Director: Alex McMurray. Bookings: www.trybooking.com/ CPFPX or text 0491 179 761

■ Off the Leash Theatre Productions: The Heartbreak Choir (by Aidan Fennessy) April 19 – 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) April 19 –May 4 at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Rd., Research. Director: Roderick Chappel. Bookings: elthamlittletheatre.org.au

■ WOMPA (West of Melbourne Performing Arts) One-Act Play Festival at Wyndham Cultural Centre, Sunday, April 21 at 2.00pm. Director: Alaine Beek. Bookings: essencetheatre.productions/wompa2024

■ LOTS Theatre (Legends of the Skies): Wednesday, April 24 at 7.30pm in the Casey Hangar of the Moorabbin Air Museum. Anzac Day Tribute. Artistic Director: Maggie Morrison. Tables of Eight. BYO supper. $20 per person. Bookings: trybooking.com/ CPOTR.

■ Synchronicity Performing Arts: The 39 Steps (Adapted by Patrick Barlow from the novel by John Buchan) April 25 - 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) April 25 –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) April 26 – 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

BILLY ELLIOT’S STRUGGLE

■ CLOC Musical Theatre presents the Australian non-professional premiere of Billy Elliot from May 10-25 at the National Theatre, St Kilda.

Co-directed by Lynette White and Chris White, Billy Elliot tells of a boy's struggle for the right to express himself through dance; set against a community's struggle for the right to work during the 1984 Coal Miners' Strike in Great Britain.

Since its 2005 London debut, and now boasting 10 Tony Awards , 10 Drama Des k awards,four Olivier Awards and 7 Helpmann Awards (including Best Musical in each case), Billy Elliot is based on the 2000 international smash-hit film, with the score by Sir Elton John CLOC Musical Theatre's show is musically directed by David Clausen-Wisken, with choreography by Lynette White and set design by Chris White . The role of Billy Elliot will be shared between Sebastian Sero and Lukas Elliott.

Performance Details: May 10 -25

Venue: National Theatre, 20 Carlisle St., St Kilda

Bookings: cloc.org.au - Cheryl Threadgold

The Audition

■ Finding refuge in Australia can be challenging

Outer Urban Projects return its critically acclaimed theatre work, The Audition , with a Melbourne -metro tour to La Mama Courthouse, Bunjil Place and Bowery Theatre in May and June.

Inspired by two young Iranian immigrant artists Milad Norouzi and Sahra Davoudi, The Audition peels back the layers of the audition process and how it correlates to seeking asylum in Australia.

Asylum seekers and actors have one thing in common. They are outsiders with uncertain status.

The Audition director and Outer Urban Projects Artistic Director, Irine Vela, says there are parallels in the process experienced by actors seeking work and refugees seeking asylum.

“In both cases, applicants wait while someone more powerful determines their future, often based on a single encounter. The asylum seeker, just like the actor, is an expert at being patient with a force that keeps them waiting without having their hopes dashed,” explained Vela.

When The Audition premiered almost five years ago in 2019, Norouzi and Davoudi were doubly displaced within Australia and on its stages. They now have permanent Australian residency and are enjoying their artistic pursuits.

Norouzi and Davoudi are ongoing associate artists with Outer Urban Projects. They have contributed to the company over many years in major works and other outreach programs while they went through the process to secure refuge in Australia.

Outer Urban Projects aims to connect new and established artists based in the northern Melbourne fringes. It provides an open door for collaboration, where artist lived experiences shape the content of the stories that it shares.

Norouzi and Davoudi didn’t have to audition. Instead, they were invited to create The Audition in collaboration with Irine Vela and writers: Christos Tsiolkas, Patricia Cornelius, Melissa Reeves, Tes Lyssiotis and Wahibe Moussa. They will also join Mary Sitarenos and Evangelos Arabatzis as performers in the 2024 Melbourne-metro tour.

“Our Melbourne-metro tour of The Audition ends during Refugee Week, which this year has the theme of 'Finding Freedom through Family.’ This seems very fitting as Milad has now reunited with his parents after a decade of separation.” explained Vela.

“The Audition offers a sharp and insightful perspective into the protocols and powers that permit or veto entry into our country and onto our stages.”

The Audition 2024 Melbourne-metro tour.

May 22 May– June 2

La Mama Courthouse (Carlton). June 6 at Bunjil Place (Narre Warren). June 21 at Bowery Theatre (St Albans)

Tickets: $18 – $30

Information outerurbanprojects.org/works/ theaudition

- Cheryl Threadgold

Possum Magic

■ Possum Magic by Monkey Baa Theatre Co. is a beautiful, magical, engaging, funny Australian piece of theatre.

Special effects are employed from the very beginning making Possum Magic enthralling from the start.

With both live actors and the use of technology Mem Fox’s book comes to life maintaining the authenticity of the story adapted cleverly for the stage by Eva di Cesare and Sandie Eldridge.

For those who love the book there is no disappointment, any additions well thought out expansions. Those not so familiar, the story is easy to follow.

This rendition of Hush and Grandma Poss’s adventure around Australia has heart, delving further into the message of the importance of being visible.

The stage was a beautiful representation of the Australian bush. The four actors played their roles gracefully, thoughtfully, respectfully.

We meet many characters including humans along the journey, all unique. The space is used well, costumes, props, special effects everything there for a purpose.

We can easily imagine Hush invisible having fun in the bush. There was some ‘calling out’ by the young audience, only to declare where the show would be taking us next on its trip around Australia or to ask questions such as ‘where is Grandma Poss?’

No sense of boredom or restlessness from the young or older in the audience. This show has something for all ages to contemplate.

Possum Magic is well rehearsed with a talented cast /crew able to bring this Australian favourite to life, highlighting the essence behind Mem’s words with true magical spirit.

- Review by Elizabeth Semmel

Preserving maps

■ State Library Victoria’s archive holds an important collection of maps that charted the foundation of Melbourne.

These survey maps are a missing piece in the story of Melbourne’s development, giving an account of streetscapes, civic spaces and social development.

They help people understand who we were, how we organised our communities and what lives looked like years ago.

Time is a risk to these fragile historic drawings. The State Library needs to urgently conserve, catalogue and digitise them so that they can be protected forever and made accessible to all.

Art Book Fair

■ The National Gallery of Victoria presents the 10th annual Melbourne Art Book Fair in May, a state-wide celebration of art book publishing and Melbourne’s status as a UNESCO City of Literature. Over 11 days, from May 23 to June 2, the Fair will enliven venues across Victoria with book launches, talks, exhibitions and more

Sisters In Crime

■ Long gone are the days when the clever sleuth at the centre of a good crime novel was a cop or private investigator.

With this in mind, Melbourne’s literary ladies, the Sisters in Crime, are on the case, with a special night coming up called Reimagining the Sleuth, on Friday-pr. 19), from 6.30 pm for dinner, and 8 pm show at their usual watering hole, The Rising Sun Hotel, 2 Raglan St, South Melbourne

Three crime writers will be grilled about their heroic sleuths by award-winning author Emma Viskic. Author of The Engraver’s Secret, Lisa Medved, has created a contemporary art historian as her sleuth, who explores a mystery in the 17th century world of painter Reubens

In Sulari Gentill’s The Mystery Writer, it’s the aspiring author herself who finds something sinister going on in the world of publishing and has to unravel the mystery before she becomes the next victim.

And in It takes a town…to solve a murder, Melbourne-based author Aoife Clifford goes right away from the idea of the sleuth being just one person.

An entertaining evening is promised, and ‘brothers-in-law’ aka the males of the species, are warmly welcomed to join the fun.

Book tickets at https://sistersincrime. org.au/event/reimagining-the-sleuth/, and enjoy finding out how modern crime authors develop their characters and plots.

Julie Houghton

Auditions

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Wait Until Dark (by Frederick Knott) April 21 at 5.30pm; April 22 at 6.30pm at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Dean Banova. Audition Bookings: deanbanova@gmail.com

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Minnie and Liraz (by Lally Katz) April 28 at 2pm and April 29 at 7pm at Unit 8, 417-419 Warrigal Rd., Cheltenham. Director; Barbara Crawford. Audition enquiries and bookings: 0414881844 or e-mail: barbaracrawford4 @gmail.com.

■ Beaumaris Theatre: Bridges of Madison County April 28, 1pm – 5 pm and April 29, 7pm – 10pm at 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Colin Armstrong; Musical Direction; Sue Fletcher. Audition enquiries and bookings: beaumaristheatre.com.au/audition

■ Wyndham Theatre Company: After Dinner (by Andrew Bovell) May 1, 7pm-9pm; May 4 2pm-4pm 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, wyndhamtheatrecompany. org.au/ Please submit expressions of interest by emailing info@wyndhamtheatre company.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

- Cheryl Threadgold

● ● Sebastian Sero (Billy Elliott) with (from left)Thomas Myszka (Big Davey), Chris Hughes (Jackie Elliot), Joshua Sumner (Tony Elliot), Ric Birkett (George), Brian Griffin, Michael Birkett and Sujanthan Satkunarajah. Photo: Ben Fon

GREEN ROOM WINNERS

■ Melbourne's Comedy Theatre was the venue for the 2023 Green Room Awards , when members of Victoria's theatre industry came together to celebrate and acknowledge this year's winners, including the newly introduced Music Theatre - Independent/Fringe category.

The star-studded line-up of performers included Courtney Monsma and Zoe Coppinger from Wicked, the casts of Groundhog Day,Songs For A New World, Cuddle, Kinky Boots and Rhonda Burchmore with the Jack Earle Trio

Speakers on the night included the Colin Brooks, Minister for Creative Industries; Lord Mayor Sally Capp, Association President Anton Berezin and Association Patron, Dr Liz Jones

Colin Brooks said: “From independent shows that got people talking to much loved global hits making their Victorian debut, it’s been a huge year on stage and behind the scenes for Victoria’s performing arts community.

“Congratulations and thank you to all of this year’s winners and nominees for your talent and tenacity and the role you play in making Victoria the vibrant creative state it is.”

CABARET

Outstanding Production. Spunk Daddy presented by Autonomous Inventions and The Butterfly Club as part of Melbourne Fringe

Outstanding Ensemble . Ella Ganza in association with Joshua Taliani for Blakout commissioned by Yirramboi Festival and presented by Arts Centre Melbourne

Outstanding Musical Direction

Greg Lavell for Cabaret Unscripted presented by Melbourne Unscripted and The Butterfly Club as part of Melbourne Fringe

Outstanding Direction. Casey Gould for Spunk Daddy presented by Autonomous Inventions and The Butterfly Club as part of Melbourne Fringe

Outstanding Original Songs. Gillian Cosgriff for Actually, Good presented by Gillian Cosgriff and The Butterfly Club as part of Melbourne

International Comedy Festival

Outstanding Writing. Darby James for Spunk Daddy presented by Autonomous Inventions and The Butterfly Club as part of Melbourne Fringe

Outstanding Artiste. Miss Friby for Galah. presented by Miss Friby Productions

Outstanding Production Design. Elizabeth Dawson-Smith and Louise Purcell for Galah. (stage) presented by Miss Friby Productions

CONTEMPORARYAND EXPERIMENTAL(CEP)

Contribution to Sector and Community (Two recipients). Kianna Oricci, Lay The Mystic and Efren Pamilacan for Genesis presented by Arts House and Cypher Culture Bukjeh

Outstanding Work. Betty Grumble for Enemies of Grooviness Eat Sh!t

produced by Performing Lines and presented by Arts House and Melbourne Fringe Performance by a Performer or Ensemble (Two recipients). Dan Daw for The Dan Daw Show presented by Arts House and Rising. Heather Cull, Sandy Daly, Marilyn Davies, Sally Goldner, Clare Larman, Terri Seddon, Jo Walker and Sandy Wood for Wake produced by Performing Lines and presented by The Substation, Melbourne Fringe and The Rabble. Design/Technical Achievement. Design Team for ~~~~~ "...derelict in uncharted space..." by Fayen d'Evie, Benjamin Hancock, Rebecca Bracewell, Luke D. King, Georgina Kleege, Nelly Kate, Andy Slater, Lloyd Mst, Jon Tjhia, Alex Craig, Anastasia La Fey, Aaron McPeake, Ashley Buchanan, Marco CherGibard, Anna Seymour, Sheereen Perrin, George Thomas, Lorena Zapiain and Sheri Wells-Jensen presented by Chunky Move and Melbourne Fringe DANCE

Best Sound Design . Alisdair Macindoe for 4/4 presented by Chunky Move

Best Visual/Digital Design. Lighting Design: Alex Nguyen and Marco Cher-Gibard for Mohini presented by Raina Peterson and Arts House as part of Frame: A biennial of Dance

Best Set/Costume Design. Set Design: Paul Yore and Devon Ackermann, Costume Design: Toni Maticevski for Triptych presented by Phillip Adams BalletLab and Temperance Hall as part of Frame: A biennial of Dance

Best Choreography. Antony Hamilton for Forever and Ever presented by Antony Hamilton and Sydney Dance Co.

Best Ensemble. Harrison Hall, Samuel Harnett-Welk, Benjamin Hurley, Oliver Savariego and Alexandra Dobson for Triptych presented by Phillip Adams BalletLab and Temperance Hall as part of FRAME: A biennial of Dance

Best Performer (Two recipients). Jesse Scales for Forever and Ever presented by Antony Hamilton and Sydney Dance Co. Raghav Handa for Two presented by Raghav Handa and Arts House as part of Frame: A biennial of Dance and produced by Performing Lines

Breaking Ground Award. Jackie Sheppard for The Honouring presented by Jackie Sheppard and Arts House as part of FRAME: A biennial of Dance

Outstanding Creation. Lucy Guerin for Newretro presented by Lucy Guerin Inc.

INDEPENDENTTHEATRE

Best New Writing. Liv Satchell with Chanella Macri and Emily Tomlins for i sat and waited but you were gone too long presented by VIMH in association with La Mama Theatre

Best Direction. Cassandra Fumi for The Crocodile presented by Spinning

Plates Co. in association with fortyfivedownstairs

Best Performer (Two recipients). Cait Spiker for The Crocodile presented by Spinning Plates Co. in association with fortyfivedownstairs. Lily Fish for Rakali presented by Fish and Duncan as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival

Best Ensemble. Clare Bartholomew, Nicci Wilks and Mozes for The Long Pigs presented by WE3 and Cluster Arts and Theatre Works

Best Lighting Design. Bronwyn Pringle for Prophet presented by Poiesis and Theatre Works

Best Set and Costume. Dann Barber for The Crocodile presented by Spinning Plates Co. in association with fortyfivedownstairs

Best Sound Design and Composition. Meena Shamaly and Camille El Feghali for Zaffé presented by Stéphanie Ghajar & Collaborators as part of Melbourne Fringe Festival

Best Production. Animal Farm presented by Bloomshed and Darebin Arts Speakeasy

MUSICALTHEATRE –COMMERCIAL/FUNDED

Artists Ensemble (Including featured ensemble). The Company for Once presented by Darlinghurst Theatre Company

Artists (Leading). Seann Miley Moore for Miss Saigon presented by Opera Australia in association with Cameron Mackintosh

Artists (Supporting). Jack Chambers for Mary Poppins presented by Disney and Cameron Mackintosh in association with Michael Cassel

Group

New Australian Music Theatre

Writing. Tom Gleisner (Book and Lyrics) and Katie Weston (Music) for Bloom presented by Melbourne Theatre Company

Design. Silicon Theatre Scenery implement by Cam Balfour (Automation) for Miss Saigon presented by Opera Australia in association with Cameron Mackintosh

Choreography. Michael Ralph for Elvis: A Musical Revolution presented by David Venn Enterprises

Direction (Music). Guy Simpson (Supervisor) and Anthony Barnhill (Musical Director) for The Phantom of the Opera presented by Opera Australia and The Really Useful Group in association with Cameron Mackintosh

Direction (Stage and Technical). Laurence Connor and Jean-Pierre

Van Der Spuy (Stage) for Miss Saigon presented by Opera Australia in association with Cameron Mackintosh

Outstanding Music Theatre Production. Mary Poppins presented by Disney, Cameron Mackintosh and Michael Cassel Group

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● More awards on next page

The First Omen

■ (MA). 119 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.

After J ohn Moore’s abysmal remake in 2006, I had no expectations for this latest entry in the demonic series, which shows the events leading up to Richard Donner’s 1976 blockbuster starring Gregory Peck.

The result is thankfully something more interesting, but because the writers don’t fully capitalise on the premise put forth, it is a frustrating viewing experience.

Set in 1971, the story centres on young American Margaret (Nell Tiger Free), who arrives in Rome to take her vows.

Welcomed by long time mentor

Cardinal Lawrence (Bill Nighy), and introduced to the stern Sister Silva (Sonia Braga) and fellow nun-to-be roommate Luz (Maria Caballero), Margaret is ready to serve God, but starts having nightmarish visions when she meets one of the young girls, Carlita (Nicole Sorace), who is segregated from the others, and seems to be treated badly by those who are supposed to care for her.

As she begins to investigate why, Margaret uncovers that something truly unholy is coming.

The First Omen surprisingly takes its time setting up its story and characters, while debutant director Arkasha Stevenson lovingly immerses the audience in 70’s atmosphere and aesthetics, and manages to provide some effective moments (especially a scene which feels like a mix of Andrzej Zulawski and Takashi Miike).

References to the earlier films will please fans of the series.

The film stumbles at crucial times due to an uneven script, which falls into clumsy exposition, treating its characters like idiots.

Performances are generally fine (Caballero and Sorace could be directly from 70’s Euro horror), and technically the film is well crafted.

The First Omen is far from the disaster I might have been expecting, thanks to Stevenson’s committed direction (I look forward to see what she does next), but a more consistently good script could have made this something more.

It will quite possibly make people interested in watching the original trilogy (The Omen in 1976, Damien : Omen II in 1978, and The Final Conflict in 1981).

Whether you want to endure the 1991 TV movie and the 2006 remake (I haven’t seen the 2016 TV series, Damien), is another matter altogether.

RATING - ***

Monkey Man

■ (MA). 123 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.

Dev Patel makes an admittedly eye-popping directorial debut here, with a hugely energetic action/ drama/thriller, packing so much into its story that it all feels a bit unwieldy, but weirdly doesn’t detract from its overall entertainment value.

Co-writer/co-producer/director Patel stars as Kid , a second-rung fighter who participates in illegal, underground bouts for ruthless promotor Tiger (an over-the-top Sharlto Copley), in a fictional city that is clearly meant to be Mumbai.

His identity hidden under a monkey mask, Kid is always the hated opponent, there to be beaten each time by the beloved champions.

Kid is obsessed in carrying out another plan however, which is getting revenge on Police Chief Rana (Sikander Kher), who murdered his mother while evicting their villagers in brutal fashion, to make way for a temple.

Also on his list is Baba Shakti (Makrand Deshpande), a self-confessed religious leader who is as corrupt as any law enforcer or politician who is helping him during upcoming elections.

When Kid gets his chance to get closer to these culprits, events become extremely dangerous as he puts his life at risk again and again.

It is incredible that audiences are seeing anything at all of Patel’s obvious passion project, and I recommend people reading up on the film’s insanely troubled production, which began pre-COVID.

Patel deserves credit for merely completing the movie, but the fact that he has created something quite memorable is truly remarkable.

Despite Patel perhaps trying to pack too many subjects into the script, including multiple criticisms at the current Indian government and its treatment of minority communities, a look at local spiritualism, and an examination of the class system, the inevitable messiness actually works in its favour, and topped by some excitingly staged fight sequences, allows Monkey Man to stand above the crowd of action/thrillers.

Patel also wears his influences on his sleeve, including Enter The Dragon, John Wick, Korean action cinema (in-particuarly City Of Violence), Strange Days, and filmmaker Danny Boyle (who directed Slumdog Millionaire).

Monkey Man will divide audiences, but Patel’s genuine conviction and determination should be applauded, and the film deserves to be given a chance. RATING

- Aaron Rourke

What’s OnWhat’s On Entertainment

Hall of Fame

■ The Australian Publishers Association has announced the 2024 Hall of Fame Awards: the 2024 Lloyd O’Neil Award, which recognises exceptional service to the Australian book Industry by a member from within its ranks; the 2024 Pixie O’Harris Award, for consistent excellence in contributions to children’s literature; and the 2024 Business Awards Shortlists which includes categories of Bookshop, Commissioning Editor, Marketing Strategy, Publisher and Small Publisher of the Year.

This year’s winners for the 2024 Hall of Fame Awards are:

■ Lloyd O’Neil Hall of Fame Award – Fiona Stager. Through bookstores Avid Reader and Where the Wild Things Are, she has not only provided a platform for local and emerging writers but also cultivated a space where readers can explore a diverse range of literature, from classics to contemporary works. Her involvement in prestigious literary awards such as the Vogel Award, Stella Prize and the Queensland Literary Awards, along with her recognition by the Johnno Award and life membership in the Australian Booksellers Association highlights her immense contributions to the Australian literary scene. The ABIA's acknowledgment of her impact further solidifies her status as a champion of Australian literature, and her efforts continue to shape and enrich the cultural landscape of the country.

■ Pixie O’Harris Hall of Fame Award - Jane Godwin Jane Godwin's impact on Australian children's literature is immense and multifaceted. Her prolific output of more than 40 books demonstrates her versatility and dedication to the craft. She is a tireless advocate for Australian children's literature, both as a supporter and promoter of fellow authors and illustrators. Her commitment to nurturing talent extends to her work as a teacher and mentor, where she has shared her expertise through courses and workshops across Australia and internationally. Her involvement with organisations like the Indigenous Literacy Foundation showcases her dedication to fostering literacy and creativity in diverse communities, including remote Aboriginal communities and children in hospitals.

■ ABIA 2024 Commissioning EditorAward

Shortlist

The Commissioning Editor Award recognises the importance of an editor or publisher who provides excellence in the support of their authors, and the acquisition and commission of new titles that enriches the Australian publishing landscape and supports the needs of the publishing house.

The shortlisted professionals for the 2024 Commissioning Editor are:

■ Kristen Abbott (Thames & Hudson Australia)

■ Anthea Bariamis (Simon & Schuster Australia)

■ Vanessa Radnidge (Hachette Australia)

■ Rebecca Saunders (Hachette Australia)

■ Catherine Milne (HarperCollins Publishers)

■ Madonna Duffy (UQP)

■ ABIA 2024 Marketing Strategy Award

Shortlist

The Marketing Strategy Award recognises the outstanding contributions of marketing professionals in showcasing their talent and individual product lines and lists with imaginative, innovative and effective campaigns that have captured the imagination of Australian readers.

The shortlist is:

■ Lola In the Mirror (HarperColllins Publishers)

■ Fourth Wing and Iron Flames (Hachette Australia)

■ The Bookbinder of Jericho (Affirm Press)

■ Wifedom (Penguin Random House Australia)

■ The Last Devil to Die (Penguin Random House Australia

■ Everyone on This Train is a Suspect (Penguin Random House Australia)

Winners of these and other categories will be announced at this year’s Awards night, hosted on Thursday, May 9 at Zinc Fed Square in Melbourne

PRAHRAN ARTIST ON SHOW

■ Australian-Italian artist Melissa La Bozzetta’s paintings which include nudes, abstracts and sculptures hang in France, Italy, New York and Rome in addition to her Prahran studio.

Melissa describes her childhood as colourful and extremely strict.

Melissa says: "I started to draw at age four as I was rarely allowed to go out and play with the other kids. I found solace, freedom and strength in my art. As a teenager my room was covered wall to wall in art. Each creation helped me work through a lot of pain that I carried and helped build my resilience."

Melissa met her husband, ex-Premier League footballer, Steve Mautone, in a Melbourne cafe. Steve played for West Ham and Reading. Upon retiring overseas, Steve became Melbourne Victory's Goalkeeper Coach for 10 years winning three premierships in his time at Victory

Melissa says: "After we had our twins, I started to paint again when they were around 8 months old. Steve would come home and find the babies and walls covered in specs of paint."

Whilst her family discouraged her from becoming an artist and pleaded with her not to paint nudes, Melissa listened to her intuition and is now a well known international artist with paintings and sculptures in the Louvre, Singulart France, Rome, New York and Australia.

Australians flock to her gallery in Prahran to commission nude self portraits, feeling liberation in their stories and journey being told through art. Melissa has male and female clients of all ages but she has cultivated a significant demand for women wanting nude self portraits.

https://www.melissalabozzetta.com/

GREEN ROOM WINNERS

Continued From Previous Page MUSICALTHEATRE –INDEPENDENT/FRINGE

Artists Ensemble (including Featured Ensemble) . The Angels (Carter Rickard, Cody Green, Jayden Prelc, Lochlan Erard, Samuel Allsop) for Kinky Boots presented by James Terry Collective Artists (Leading). Charmaine Gorman for A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum presented by Watch This Artists (Supporting). Javon King for Guys and Dolls presented by Antipodes Theatre Company

New Australian Music Theatre Writing. Sarah Wynen for Blue to the Horizon presented by Sevenfold Theatre Company Design. Sidney Younger (Lighting) for Body of Work - Parade, Songs for a New World Choreography. Veronica Beattie George for La Cage aux Folles presented by David M. Hawkins in association with Arts Centre Melbourne Music Direction. David Butler for Guys and Dolls presented by Antipodes Theatre Company Direction. Martin Croft for Kinky Boots presented by James Terry Collective Outstanding Music Theatre Production. Kinky Boots presented by James Terry Collective

OPERA

Outstanding Performance in a Lead Role (Two recipients). Antoinette Halloran for Götterdämmerung presented by Melbourne Opera., Adrian Tamburini Götterdämmerung presented by Melbourne Opera Outstanding Performance in a Supporting Role (Two recipients). Timo Riihonen for Tannhäuser presented by Opera Australia. Dimity Shepherd for Galileo presented by Victorian Opera Design. Dann Barber (Sets), Sabina Myers (Costumes) and Lisa Mibus (Lighting) for Melbourne Cheremushki presented by Victorian Opera Musical Achievement. Conducting: Richard Mills for Galileo presented by Victorian Opera New Australian Opera. Richard Mills and Malcolm Angelucci for Galileo presented by Victorian Opera Best Direction. Constantine Costi for

Noted With Thanks

■ Malaysian comedian Kuah Jenhan presents Noted with Thanks in the Melbourne International Comedy Festival until April 21 at the Trades Hall Meeting Room, Carlton.

Despite having a day job as an awardwinning Creative Director of a major advertising agency, Jenhan knows who the real experts are when it comes to "the socials".

For his show Noted With Thanks, Jenhan has assembled ‘Team Jenhan’ - a squad of Year 10 students he met at a school workshop - to run his social media campaign.

Team Jenhan has been coaching Jenhan on his posts in addition to supplementing his content with their own, colourful, distinctively digitally native, efforts.

‘Team Jenhan’ is lead by Kai Ling and Jesslyn, two students chaperoned by their drama teacher. Kai Ling and Jesslyn are online everyday, alternately coaching and scolding Jenhan for his efforts on his channels as well as attempting to boost his brand on their own channel @teamjenhan

Performance Details: Until April 21

Venue: The Meeting Room, Trades Hall, 54 Victoria St., Carlton

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

M Is For Melbourne

■ M is for Melbourne: the World's Mostly Liveable City

Personable designer and academic Julian O'Shea enjoys making short videos about interesting places around his beloved home city of Melbourne for YouTube, Instagram and Tik Tok.

Not surprisingly, Melbourne was the topic for his first live show presented at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival at the Doubletree Hilton.

Melbourne, Cheremushki presented by Victorian Opera

Outstanding Special Achievement. The Ring Cycle presented by Melbourne Opera

Best Production. Idomeneo presented by Victorian Opera THEATRE COMPANIES

Outstanding New Australian Writing. Declan Furber Gillick for Jacky presented by Melbourne Theatre Company

Outstanding Composition and Sound Design. Joe Paradise Lui for Is God Is presented by Melbourne Theatre Company and Sydney Theatre Company

Outstanding Lighting Design. Rachel Burke for My Sister Jill presented by Melbourne Theatre Company and Wittenoom presented by Red Stitch Actors’ Theatre

Direction. Susie Dee for My Sister Jill presented by Melbourne Theatre Company

Outstanding Costume Design. Marg Horwell for Bernhardt/Hamlet presented by Melbourne Theatre Company

Outstanding Set Design. Marg Horwell for Escaped Alone and What If If only presented by Melbourne Theatre Company

Outstanding Ensemble. My Sister Jill presented by Melbourne Theatre Company

Outstanding Production. My Sister Jill presented by Melbourne Theatre Company

Outstanding Performer (Two recipients). Danny Ball for Loaded presented by Malthouse Theatre. Chika Ikogwe for seven methods of killing kylie jenner presented by Malthouse Theatre in association with Darlinghurst Theatre Company and Green Door Theatre Company ASSOCIATIONAWARDS

Work for Young Audiences (CEP). The By Kids For Kids Collective for Don't Panic, Everything Is Urgent presented by ArtPlay and House of Muchness

Betty Pounder Award for Original Australian Choreography (MT). Michael Ralph for Elvis: A Musical Revolution presented by David Venn Enterprises

Geoffrey Milne Award (CEP). Phillip Adams

Lifetime Achievement Award. Phillip Adams Technical Achievement Award. Peter John

Sidney Pettet

- Cheryl Threadgold and Michael Wilkie

Titled M is for Melbourne: the World’s Mostly Liveable City, O’Shea works through the alphabet from A to Z, assisted by electronic visuals, to take his audience on a respectful, tongue-in-cheek exploration of the city’s ‘weird and wonderful’ parts.

The result is an engaging, entertaining 40minute show, intelligently and articulately presented at high-octane pace by O’Shea, comprising clever, clean humour, well-researched interesting facts, and no audience participation needed except for much laughter and emotive responses from the full capacity crowd.

Until now, who would have realised that the Collins Street bicycle lane is not as wide as adult bicycle handlebars, that inflatable tube signs are no longer permitted, or that the cast bronze statue of canine Larry Latrobe in Federation Square was stolen and replaced?

Also attracting endearing scrutiny were the Parliament House Station escalators, the Montague Bridge, the Yarra River and many more.

O’Shea makes it clear he would love to see Melbourne reclaim its title from Vienna as The World’s Most Liveable City.

He points out some astonishing facts about the small number of cities assessed each year for global liveability ranking.

As a point of interest, M also stands for Mayor, and the City of Melbourne happens to have a forthcoming vacancy.

What better candidate than this self-described ‘boy from the country who talks about cities’, who obviously passionately cares about where he lives?

Congratulations Julian O’Shea for a terrific first MICF show. May there be many more.

- Review by Cheryl

Threadgold

At Oakleigh

■ Ella's Music Club presents Kings& Queens of Soul and Tina Loves Sam at Oakleigh Music Hall from 8pm on Saturday, April 20.

The line-up is Andrea Marr - Vocals, John McNamara - Guitar and Vocals, Shane Gilbert - Guitar (and Backing Vocals), Andrew Fry - Bass, Dave Clark - Drums. -

Smart phone ... help!

■ Is your smart phone driving you crazy? Do you like to learn one-on-one or in a small group? Do you like a laugh and a cuppa? Do you want to learn yourself and stop relying on family?

Some common topics include:

■ Finding information on the internet.

■ Emailing and messaging.

■ Finding an installing apps

■ Using Google maps

■ Taking, sharing and organising photos

■ Understanding your phone plan

■ Making online payments

■ Understanding and saving passwords

■ Staying safe online

You are never too old to learn. No task is too small. One-off or regular lessons. From $80 per hour.

Multi-session discounts available.

Contact: Sarah Flynn, Digital Teacher, phone 9436 4349.

Places To Go

■ It is amazing how I get the inspiration to research and write these stories.

I pulled out the DVD of Gone With The Wind recently to show my youngest daughter.

As we sat and watched the film I was entranced with the performance of Leslie Howard

I thought - whatever happened to Leslie Howard ? Please read on, it is a fascinating story.

Leslie Howard Steiner was born in Forest Hill, London in 1893.

His parents were of Jewish heritage but his mother was raised as a Christian.

Leslie was the oldest of five siblings and the family changed their name to Stainer.

Leslie was educated at Alleyn's School in London and worked as a bank teller before serving in the British Army during World War One He was discharged suffering with shell-shock in 1916. Leslie became a stage actor and worked professionally on London's West End and then on Broadway in many plays.

In 1920 he changed his name to Leslie Howard by deed poll. He married Ruth Martin and they had two children.

Leslie began his film career in England working in silent films before playing lead roles in sound films.

His early films included British Agent, Of Human Bondage and The Scarlett Pimpernel. Leslie received an Academy Award nomination for his performance in Berkley Square.

Whatever Happened To ... Leslie

Howard

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

During his career he worked as an actor, producer and director.

In 1935 Leslie starred in The Petrified Forest on Broadway and this led to his being cast in the Warner Brothers film of the same name opposite Humphrey Bogart and Bette Davis

He insisted that Bogart be cast as the gangster Duke Mantee after working with him in the stage play.

They became firm friends and Bogart named his daughter Leslie in his honour.

Leslie starred as Professor Henry Higgins in Pygmalion in 1938.

His most remembered role was as Ashley Wilkes in Gone With The Wind in 1939. He agreed to play the character without reading the

● ● ● ● Leslie Howard

novel by Margaret Mitchell or the film script. It seems he hated playing the role of the honourbound disillusioned intellectual Southern gentleman and was quoted as saying: "I hate the damn

part. I'm not nearly beautiful or young enough for Ashley and it makes me sick being fixed up to look attractive".

But the public loved him and he was wonderful in the film. He returned to the UK during the war years and used his profile to raise money for the war effort.

He produced films and did a lot of voice work.

In 1943 Leslie Howard was aboard a plane flying from Portugal to England when it was shot down by a Luftwaffe fighter aircraft over the Bay of Biscay.

Leslie was among 17 people who were killed. There have been all sorts of theories over the years on this tragic event including the story that the Germans may have thought that Winston Churchill was on board.

His late son Ronald Howard became an actor and portrayed the title character in the 1954 television series Sherlock Holmes. Leslie Howard was 50 when he became a casualty of war and a documentary on his life was recently produced.

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

INDIGENOUS TREES AND THE DREAMING

Grounding and Connecting –Indigenous Trees and The Dreaming

This exhibition, presented by Mullum Mulam Indigenous Gathering Place, celebrates the launch of a new project mapping First Nations art including outdoor and indoor murals, sculptures, meeting places, galleries and collections, monuments and other art forms in Melbourne’s eastern regions.

The exhibition presents a newly commissioned mural, and exhibition works ranging across painting, sculpture, wood and photography by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders artists responding to the themes of Big Old Beautiful Indigenous Trees and The Dreaming.

Exhibition closes June 9.

Arts in Maroondah

Ringwood Town Square Ground Floor 179 Maroondah Hwy (opposite Ringwood Station) Ringwood

MUMA

■ Muma opens ground-breaking exhibition of Australian design visionary Visnja Brdar.

Muma has unveiled the groundbreaking debut exhibition of Australian born, New York based designer Visnja Brdar, Visnja Brdar: Design Exalted is Australia’s first significant exhibition of a female graphic designer and profiles the remarkable 37-year career if a design visionary in an exhibition exclusive to Muma.

Drawing in Brdar’s design archive and celebrating the designer’s important role in contemporary design communication, the exhibition coincides with the first monograph of Brdar’s work co-published by Muma and Powerhouse Publishing.

The exhibition also explores the meticulous artistry and sophistication within Brdar’s brand identity, collateral, book design, packaging, jewellery, and creative direction projects, underlying her commitment to design as storytelling , in addition new works of art and personal notebooks made public for the first time, attesting to her remarkable and broad range of expression.

Exhibition closes June 15. Monash University of Art (MUMA)

The Arts

with Peter Kemp

Building F Caulfield Campus Princes Hwy, Caulfield

Blender

Ordered Chaos – Jo Ryan

The artwork is created if a weird psychological and surreal imagery, depicting hidden moments in a familiar world.

The familiarity of suburbia is something that Ryan placates through her choice of imagery.

The absence of life in much of the artwork evokes vast emptiness and creates a window into a familiar dystopian world.

Ryan has constructed a muse en scene, that gives the iconography a new and secondary life cuisine the suburban banality.

Exhibition opens Friday April 19 and closes May 4. Blender Studio 33035 Dudley St, West Melbourne

NGV

■ The Grace Crowley and Ralph Belson exhibition pairs two pioneers of Australian abstraction for the very first time.

Grace Crowley and Ralph Balson is the first ever major exhibition to explore in-depth the longstanding creative partnership and artistic synergies between pioneering abstract art-

ists Grace Crowley (1890 – 1964) and Ralph Baylon (1890 – 1964).

Opening at the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, the exhibition charts their radical leap into pure abstraction, and the important role they played in shaping the modern art movement in Australia.

By presenting the work of Crowley and Balson together, the exhibition invites audiences to trace the shared influences and harmonies between their works, as well as to appreciate the centrality of collaboration to their individual practices.

The exhibition comprises more than 75 paintings and works on paper, with some of these never-before-seen by the Australian public, and drawn from Victorian and interstate collections, major institutions including the Art Gallery of New South Wales and the National Gallery of Australia, regional and private collections.

Exhibition opens May 23 and closes September 22.

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne - Peter Kemp

Radio DJ items stolen

■ Melbourne veteran radio man Kevin Hillier and his partner Sarah Patterson have lost a number of radio awards after their western suburbs home suffered a break-in.

One item was a TV Week DJ of the Year. Another item was an Australian Commercial Radio Awards (ACRA).

Kevin also lost a framed picture of a gold Twelfth Man album he had been gifted by EMI for helping to break the record.

Kevin told Radio Today that he’s equally worried that some Cash Converters worker will obtain it and say: “That Kevin Hillier fellow must be going through tough times, trying to offload his ACRAs.”

- Radio Today

OK. With John O’Keefe

Partridge Family celebrates

■ Shirley Jones, the Mum in TV mega hit series 'Partridge Family' celebrated her 90 th birthday with her Cassidy kids. Shirley blew out the candles at a small party at a US snowy mountain resort. In attendance was once teen singer, Shaun, age 65 who after years living as a semi recluse has returned to the stage with a songs and memories of being a Partridge member and his time as a long haired, once adored teen idol.

Train of Thought

■ It seems so bleeding obvious. Across the ditch, KFC rented a suburban train, had an artist provide signage for KFC, but the real Zinger was name given to the train - The Gravy Train

The train was travelling between stations en route to a major rugby game and apart from advertising KFC, it also encouraged travellers to leave cars at home and catch a train.

Different Foodie tour

■ Queen Victoria Market has introduced a new mouthwatering foodie tour called Tastes of Australia. The 90-minute tour, Friday to Sunday, takes you on a culinary adventure sampling Australian bush ingredient, learn cooking tricks using exotic ingredients from stallholders. Perfect for locals and tourists. Details: 0491 361 528

Colette returns home

■ Colette Mann has returned home after a year in London where she featured in a variety of theatrical jobs including TV commercials, experimental theatre and generally having a fun time. Colette, now 74, is keen to return to a Melbourne radio station looking for a quick-thinking broadcaster.

Bridget Jones continues

■ The hugely successful film franchise 'Bridget Jones' has announced plans to produce the fourth movie- 'Bridget Jones; Mad about the Boy'. Already Renee Zellweger, Hugh Grant and Emma Thompson are confirmed and will reunite to star when film is released Valentine's Day, 2025. The Bridget Jones franchise has already grossed $760 million at box office. -

John O’Keefe

● ● ● ● Shirley Jones

Crossroads

By Rob Foenander info@robfomusic.com.au

New single

■ Melbourne based Mr Alford continues on his successful musical journey with his next single release. Titled Bury Me On This Hill, it’s scheduled to hit the airwaves in mid May. The country folk-inspired singer, songwriter and musician has brought together an elite list of renown musicians from around Australia to add to his already impressive studio recordings. The new single features Pia Nesvara, a regular herself at numerous venues around town. “I adore making music and find that part easy, now is the hard bit, telling the world about my work”.

Heritage legends

■ A once-in-a-lifetime experience for lovers of true-blue, Oz Blues, Country Rock and Folk is set for the Frankston Arts Centre on June 2. Heritage legends Chain, Stars and The Bushwackers will relive their hits and music that have made them Australian music icons for countless decades. https:// artscentre.frankston.vic.gov.au/Whats-On/

Story tellers

■ Casey Radio 97.7fm is presenting the next instalment in its highly successful Storytellers at the station series of concerts. ‘Corn Nut Creek’ are award-winning folkies hailing from New York and Melbourne. Their spellbinding songs draw from Appalachian roots and will transport you with lush vocal harmonies and toe-tapping fiddle and banjo. Danielle Vita and Tanya Bradley are storytellers bound together through sisterhood and song. Sunday (Apr. 21) 2pm4pm. Tickets at trybooking.com

TOP OF THE FOOD CHAIN

■ Rohan Arneil has an easy-going attitude in his comedic delivery as he recounts the ridiculous nature of many of his experiences in life as a garbo, stonemason and wouldbe paramour.

His view is original with a turn of phrase that makes for the comic. He is also confident on stage and able to interact with his audience.

But there is another level possible. His peripatetic lifestyle is mirrored in his shtick as he moves from one episode to another which seem to be conveniently listed on his phone.

The next dimension would be a greater structure and form to the set. The common factor between all the items is Rohan himself and not necessarily the language or common argument or thread.

When he finishes one episode he moves on to the next. This amuses. This makes for laughter. But such an approach could go on forever.

The best reflection of what I mean is the title given to his show, Top of the Food Chain

There is actually no reference to it in the hour or play on what it might mean, and there is fun to be had with never actually rising to the top or who you have to consume to get there.

That narrative arc is something that would bring the whole show together allowing, perhaps, for a final revelation about the absurdity of life.

Crossword Solution No 4

The Dove Club until April 18 comedyfestival.com.au

- Review by David McLean

Still Dry White

■ Be prepared for quick-fire one liners from Nick Schuller with his season of Still Dry White as a part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival delivered at the Trades Hall - Archive Room.

But not before what I would call an eight-minute ‘warm up’ segment by stand-up comic Luka Muller with some of his life’s experiences before introducing Nick.

Across the front of the stage were bottles of Nick’s own wine label – of still dry white, with the emphasis on “dry” aligning it to his style of humour.

Tall and imposing it was hard to get a smile from him as there was nothing sacred in the delivery of his many narrations.

His ability to switch from one subject to another was obvious, using the last word of a one liner to change direction with ease.

In engaging the audience, he moved across the front row enquiring of their occupations, a physio, a housewife, a uni-student and when I was challenged – “I am a reviewer”, his quick-fire response was, “There goes my career as a comic”.

Most of the time his delivery was

TOPPLING PERTURBS HEREDITY MOONBEAM

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BEDSIDE INDIA OMEGA SCALA EDDYING

O A N REEL R L P T Y T M NAZI E T H MOROCCO AVEMARIA FERRYMAN LEAKAGE

B K L B N S T ACRID E A I I D L T

APERITIF KISSED C L BEATEN UNSPOILT

R N N C PANE REENTER ERGO G A C O DISPENSER MELBA S H ABASE ARSONISTS M O O E A A PASTIES V C T

monotone and emotionless and as dry as his wine. He reminded us that Adelaide was the home of Australia’s worst serial killers, linking barrels to “full bodied“ wine.

Predatory priests didn’t escape his rhetoric nor a reference to playing golf was like having sex.

Telling us he was newly married, his wife was cooking and asked him to get some fish stock, so dutifully he went out and invested in some John West stocks.

There were plenty more cleverly delivered situations, much to the delight of the audience. A wellcrafted performance topped off with the handing out bottles of his wine as we left the building.

- Review by

Graeme McCoubrie

■ Aan incorrect review was published for this show in last week's edition. Enquiries of the author lead us to believe it was an unintentional error. - Editor.

Vale Garry Van Egmond

■ Garry Van Egmond, respected music industry stalwart passed peacefully on Saturday morning, April 6, following complications of recent surgery.

Garry Van Egmond was a key figure in the Australasian entertainment industry, with over 50 years’ experience in touring, production of theatrical events, event merchan-

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

dising, marketing, and promotion –selling in excess of 35 million tickets across Australia, New Zealand, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Korea, Taiwan and Japan.

Through Garry’s long and highly regarded presence in the Industry, he was responsible for four of the biggest concert tours of Australia including ‘Dire Straits’ 1986, ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ 1992, ‘Riverdance’ 1997 and ‘AC/DC’ in 2010.

In a career of ‘sold out’ business, highlights include Dire Straits ‘Brothers In Arms Tour’ , which saw 250,000 seats, sold in Sydney alone, and ticket sales of approximately one in 15 to the entire Australian population (this achievement is listed in the Guinness Book of Records), Bette Midler’s ‘The Divine Miss M Tour’ of 1978, which sold out 72 performances, and in 2010 AC/DC’s ‘Black Ice Tour’.

TEG Group CEO Geoff Jones said: “Today the entire TEG family expresses our sadness and mourns the loss of Garry Van Egmond.

“Garry was not only a highly valued colleague but a thoroughly decent person, and a resounding talent with the highest integrity.

“His legacy will stand the test of time.

“Our thoughts are with Christo, Katie and his family through these difficult times.”

- Contributed

Hall’s Funeral Services

Phone 9438 5416

24 Hours a Day, 7 Days A Week

15 Station St, Diamond Creek

An Australian owned and operated family Funeral business that understands the needs of people at a time of grief.

Offering a wide range of services including prearranged and pre-paid funerals.

New Whittlesea Chapel Address: 50 Church St, Whittlesea www.hallfunerals.com.au

Victorian Rural News

Yea murder story grips Victoria History

■ Victoria was consumed by the murder mystery at Yea when Mrs Jospehine McLaughlin was murdered after returning from a dance at the Shire Hall in 1922.

At first, vagrant William Crisp was detained, then 35-year-old laborer Reuben Fox was charged with the murder.

“Reuben Fox, 35, laborer, was arrested today and charged with the murder of Josephine McLaughlin,” reported the afternoon Herald newspaper on Tuesday, July 25.

“William Crisp, who bad been detained on a charge of vagrancy, was subsequently released.

“Comment that might connect the arrested man with tho crime is, of course, not permissible, but a general statement may be made of police inquires prior to tho latest development.

“For two days the police have been inquiring into thestatoment of Michael McLaughlin, that last Saturday week his wife was chased across a paddock and threatened, and a report by two boys that after the dance which Mrs McLaughlin attended on Saturday night, they saw a man near tho scene of tho tragedy.

“Tho broken glass found is that of an Abbot's lager beer bottle, bearing label "UG1." There are beer stains on the glass, indicating that tho bottle was full When broken, and the strands of hair adhering to it correspond with that of tho dead woman.

“This is regarded as conclusive proof that she was first attacked at thespot where this glass was found — a point which had previously been in doubt.

“The police theory is that, dozed by the blow that shattered the lower part of her forehead and cut into her nose, thewoman turned and fled across the paddock toward the river, not knowing where she ran, and, in her confusion and terror, running in the opposite direction of that to herhome.

“At the bottom corner of the paddock she crawled through the wire fence into tho lane, where it is regarded as probable she collapsed with exhaustion and from the effects of the blow.

“Here her assailant caught up with her and, with maniacal fury, battered her to death with a heavy stick which, bearing several strands of human hair, is in the possession of the police.

“He then pushed her through the lower fence and carried her down to tho river, 200 yards away, where he flung her into the reeds.

“Detective Bruce, of Benalla , who is in charge of the investigation, said this morning that the work of Peter and George, the blacktrackers who returned to Dandenong yesterday, was as successful as it could have been in what were most unfavorable circumstances.

"In weather such as this," he said, "to be '24 hours late is practically to lose all chance of following tracks.

“Had tlie blacktrackers arrived soon after the tragedy occurred they would most likely have been able to track the murderer from where the body was found.

“Detective McArthur, the fingerprint expert, was also unfortunate in that the frost which had covered the beer bottle afterwards melted and interfered with that were obviously finger prints.

“An unexplained feature of the

● "Victim of the crime: Mrs J. McLaughlin. Mrs. J. M'Laughlin. This photograph was taken a few years ago, and the baby, whom the wormm is nursing, his grown into this bright liitle child." - Melbourne Herald. July 25, 1922

stated to have been wearing when she left the house.

“The police are making a close search for the missing articles.

“

Mr George Hamilton, who was present at the dance where Mrs McLaughlin was last seen, and discovered the body in the river, says that when he left the Shire Hall at about 11.30 p.m.

“

Mrs McLaughlin was still there. She had not been dancing with anyone, and it was considered rather unusual that she should be there.

“Mr Hamilton, who was asked by Constable Searle to assist in the search, made inquiries of those who attended the dance.

“Thelatest evidence shows that Mrs McLaughlin was the last to leave the dance hall.

“A man who made a statement to the police yesterday that he saw a man standing by t he river with blood on his clothes, has disappeared. He was last seen at Seymour.

“The police regard as important the statement of two boys, aged 12 and 13 years, that they were returning about 1 a.m. from the dance which the dead woman attended.

“On passing the lane which leads down to tho paddock where the crime was committed they saw a man who had been at the dance and had been very dritnk.

“The man had shown himself previously in the evening to be very violent.

“McLaughlin has applied to the police for financial assistance for the burial of his wife at the Yea cemetery. The interests of his children, aged two, seven, and 10 years respectively, are being watched.

“

McLaughlin, for many years, has been assisted by his wife's earnings as a charwoman, and the family has always lived in poor circumstances,” reported The Herald.

The Herald’s ‘Special Reporter’ described the accused man:

“Reuben Fox, who has been arrested on a charge of having murdered Mrs. M'cLaughlin, is. 29 years of age.

that all who knew the man thought likewise.

“‘I did not hesitate to say so to his face," Fox added.

“Fox, when arrested, made no statement beyond saying that he was not guilty of the crime.

“Apart from Detective Bruce, Senior-Constable Commons and Constables Searle, Nolan and Knapp were associated in the arrest.

“It is alleged that the bottle which was found broken was purchased at E. S. Purcell & Co's store on Saturday evening at about 6 o'clock.

“H. Forbes, who sold the bottle, states he remembers the transaction perfectly.

“William Crisp, who was held on a vagrancy charge, has been released on his own bail.”

Next day (Wednesday), The Herald reported on Reuben Fox been remanded to Melbourne:

“Rouben Fox, 29, a sturdily-built man, was brought before Mr Purcell, J.P., this morning and charged with the murder of Josephine Jane McLaughlin, who attended a dance in Yea on Saturday night, and whose body was found in the Yea River on Sunday.

“

“He lives in a three-roomed cottage at the east end of the town, and is a laborer.

“Formerly Fox was a seaman and at one time he was the district cemetery attendant.

“Fox will appear before the Yea Court tomorrow, and will probably be remanded for eight days.

“The detectives, who visited Fox's house this morning, statp that they found ,a blue suit, which ho had been wearing, at the dance on Saturday night, soaked in blood.

“His hat was also blood - stained. His boots were sodden and covered with mud.

“An extraordinary coincidence, they state, is that Fox's boot is the same size as Crisp's , and is worn through n the same place.

“When I was down . on the river bank this morning examining the scene of tho crime I was joined by Fox, who volunteered to lead me to the various places of interest and explain how the crime must have been committed.

Fox was represented by Mr Caples. Constable Searle gave evident that with Detective Bruce and Constables Knopp and Nolan he went to Fox's house on Tuesday and arrested him.

“They found there blood stained clothing, of which they took possession.

“The accused man. who did not plead, was then remanded to appear at the City Court on August 23.

“Mr Caples formally applied for bail, which was refused. Fox seemed to feel his position bitterly, and had been crying.

“He will be taken to Melbourne by tonight's train in charge of Constables Nolan and Knopp.

“The coroner's inquest will be held at Yea on August 25,” said the July 26 issue of The Herald.

The Argus morning newspaper said that Reuben Fox lived in small house fronting the Yea railway station.

The Argus said that the Police asserted that kerosene had been used in an effort to remove stains on the clothing. Fox said this had been after a fall on June 26.

● ● ● ● ● Reuben Fox, pictured in The Herald, July 26, 1922.

Reuben Fox had been the sanitary contractor for the Shire, The Argus said.

His recent work had been ploughing a paddock where the murdered woman crossed to get to her home.

“Fox was a spectator at the dance on Saturday night where he was the worse for liquor.

“This morning an employee of one of the Yea stores notified the police that he had sold a bottle of lager beer.

“The police are believed to have important evidence.”

The Age newspaper said that Fox’s boots, when found by Police, were still wet.

“It is stated that Fox visited the husband of the murdered woman on Sunday and expressed sympathy with him in his trouble.

“He was on the scene of the tragedy on Monday, and discussed it with townspeople.

“Yesterday he took a reporter and a photographer over the ground, and, discussed the tragedy with them.

“He has been photographed many times. Late last night he appeared to be visibly affected by the tragedy,” The Age reported.

“Fox freely expressed the opinion that a resident of the town (not Crisp) was the guilty party, and said ●

Police said that the footprints found at the river bank were identical to the boots wore by Fox on the Saturday evening.

The Herald (Aug. 2) reported that Fox seemed to take little interest in proceedings when he appeared at the City Court.

“Under the shadow of grim tragedy: Where the Murdered Woman Lived at Yea. A picture of the home at Y«a where Mrs. J. M'Laughlin lived with hor husband and three children. She was returning to the house on Saturday night when she was attacked and foully done to death. Her body was then thrown into tho Yea River.” - Herald , July 25, 1922

Fox’s beer purchases became key evidence

■ The City Court was crowded when Reuben Fox, 35, was charged with having murdered Mrs Josephine Jane McLaughlin at Yea in 1922.

“Fox appeared calm, and interjected intently to the Police's brief outlined on the case against him,” reported The Argus on August 3, 1922.

“Sub-inspector T. Coonan said that on the morning of July 23 the body of Mrs. McLaughlin was found in the River Yea

“She had left her home on the previous night to to a dance, and she was seen returning towards her home.

“A post-mortem examination showed that she had several injuries on the head, that been inflicted before the body was placed in the river.

"The accused, who was arrested on July 23", confirmed by witness, "was seen at the dance and late that night was seen going in the direction of the scene of the struggle.

“His clothes were examined, and were found to be blood-stained, and It was also faound that he bought a particular brand of beer bottle, which was used to inflict the injuries on the unfortunate woman.

“The inquest into the death of Mrs McLaughlin has been fixed for August 15 instead of August 23.”

“‘Mr T. Caples (for Fox): I only want to say that my client denies all knowledge of the crime.

“The blood stains and the beer bottle can be explained.”

The Herald (Aug. 9) said: “Looking calm, but with fingers twitching nervously, Reuben Fox appeared before Mr T. O'Callaghan at the City Court this morning, on remand, charged with the murder of Josephine J. McLaughlin at Yea between July 22 and 23.

"I want to ask a question," he called out to the bench. "Are the detectives allowed to ask the other prisoners in the yard about me? They have been doing so."

“Mr O'Callaghan: If you have any complaints to make, put them in writing before the governor of the prison.”

The inquest was held at Yea by Mr C.J. Rogers, P.M.

“Michael McLaughlin, laborer, said that be was the husband of Josephine Jane McLaughlin. They were married about 11 years ago,” said press items syndicated around Victoria on August 16.

“They had lived in Yea for about five months, and he had been on good terms with his wife.

“On Saturday, 22nd July, his wife was working in the township, doing some washing and cleaning.

“She returned home about 4.45. Sbe spoke of a dance in the Shire Hall that night, and said, “Could I go to it?”

“Witness suggested that she should take Micky, his son, with her, but she said it would not look nice to take him, as she would be- coming home late.

“Witness told her to .take some silver, and she took a shilling aud tied it in her handkerchief.

“Witness told her to go along the road, and not come home through the paddocks.

“She said she would do that, as on the previous Saturday night, as she and Micky were coming through the paddock, they thought someone followed them.

“She said she would be all right,

● ● After hours purchases of Abbots Lager from Purcell’s Store became key evidence in the Yea murder trial in 1922.

and told witness not to worry about her.

“She kissed them all goodbye, and told witness to put the baby to bed.

“Witness identified clothing as that worn by liis wife when she left.

“There was no mark, other than rust stains or a tear, in the underclothing produced .

“Witness put the baby to bed when his wife left, and then sat talking with the other children, aged ten and eight respectively.

“After midnight witness went at intervals, to the door and looked for his wife. He heard someone coming along the road between midnight and one o’clock. He sang out, “Is that you coming. Tot ?” but then recognised the person approaching was a man named McLean. Witness did not speak to him.

“About 2 o’clock he thought he heard someone call out, but was afterwards convinced that'it was not anyone. Witness call out ‘Tot’ several times and then returned inside.

“About 4 o’clock witness took a hurricane lamp and went to see if the dance was still in progress. He found that there was no dancing, and went back home.

“On his way home witness found his wife’s handkerchief near the track, with the shilling still tied in it.

“The handkerchief was lying beside a broken beer ' bottle.'

“Witness then went for his life home, and before he got inside he sang out to the children, “Is Mummy home?” They replied, “No.”

“Witness then went up to McLean’s and asked the McLean boys if they had seen his wife. They said “No.”

“Continuing, McLaughlin said : “Accompanied by my son, I returned to the township and woke Constable Searle, who joined in the search.

“Soon after daylight

I found my wife’s scarf lying in the paddock. I went down among the rushes, call-

the body of the murdered woman on 24th July.

“He believed that death was due to wounds on the head, and that the wo man was dead before she entered the water.

“The wounds could have been made by a bottle or a stick. There was no evidence of violation.

“George Manson Hamilton, produce merchant, of Yea, said that on the morning of ‘23rd July h found the body in the river.

“Georg Henry Joseph Wagstaff, laborei', said that on 22nd July he met Fox at a football match. At half time- he had drinks with Fox and then returned to the match.

“At three quarter time they went.and had four or five drinks at one hotel and three or four at another.

“That evening witness obtained two bottles of bfeer from an employe of. E.S. Purcell Company’s store. The beer was drunk by witness and Fox

“Witness and Fox remained at the street plantation until about 8 p.m., when they went to the dance.

“They went to McLeish’s hotel, McLeish refused to serve them. They returned to the dance, and after a few minutes witness went home, leaving Fox in the porch. It was then about 11.57pm.

“Witness did not see Fox buy any hottle beer that afternoon or night.”

ing my wife’s name, and saw a pool of blood near the fence.

“I told Searle of the discovery, and Searle told me to go home.

“I knew Reuben Fox, and did ,a few days’ work for him just before my wife’s death. My wife remarked that Fox was a man she would hot trust.

“She said that -when I got some money Fox owed me.

“To Mr: Caples—The man who follow ed Mrs .McLaughlin through the paddock on the previous occasion was named Crisp

“Before the body was found Fox came to my home -and shouted, “Are you in, Mick ?”

“I said I believed my wife had been murdered. Fox replied, “Oh, l am sorry.” Fox then said, “How, do you know?” I replied, “Because there is blood and hair on the scarf.” Fox said, “Oh, the ---- that did that wants burning.” I did not say I saw my wife in the river.

“Mr Caples—Have you told anyone that they had you in the gun?

“Mc Laughlin—No. But I have told people that I have a clear conscience.

“You say you got on splendidly with, your wife. —So I did.

“Have you ever asked a man named Jerry Betteson for a loan of his gun to shoot your, wife ?—No.

“Did you ever threaten your wife that if ever she went. to a dance she would never go to another?—Never. I was only too pleased, to see her enjoy herself.

“Was your wife in the habit of bring ing liquor home ?—No.

“Further questioned, M'Laughlin said — I worked when I could get it. I have not worked in five or six‘weeks. My last job was for Fox Before coming to Yea I was rabbiting and doing odd jobs at Trawool , where for about a month my wife worked at a hotel.

“I did not refuse work at Trawool

“Dr Colin Campbell said that he made a posttmortem examination of

lager in stock in xiny other hotel in Yea on July. 22. .

“

Detective Bruce said that on July, 23, he arrived at Yea and took charge of the investigations. .

“With Constable Searle, he went to Purcell’s paddock. There he found portions of a broken beer bottle. Attached to a portion of the glass was an Abbot’s label.

“Witness, Searle and Constable Nolan walked to the river end of Gifford street. Near the fence they saw a pool of blood. There were bloodstains on tho bottom wires.

“Two portions of a broken stick were found. Footmarks were discovered on the river bank. In one heelmark were marks of projecting nails.

“Later, witness found strands of hair, mixed with the glass. of a broken bottle.

“Continuing, Bruce said that on July 25, with constables, he went to Fox's house in Station street. Fox came along, and said, "Do you want to see me?"

“Witness said, "Yes; we will go inside." They went inside the house, which was of four rooms, and had a poor appearance. The front room, in which a fire was burning, was the only one containing furniture.

“Witness said to Fox, "I suppose you know what we want to seeyou about?"

The Argus reported that Archibald Forbes , grocor, employed at Purcell's store, said that Fox came to the shop on the Saturday evening and asked for two bottles of beer.

“Witness demurred, as it was 10 minutes past 6 o'clock, but Fox said that he was going straight home. He was served with two bottles of Abbots lager. These (witness believed) were branded ‘U61’ like other bottles in the same bin. No other customer bought Abbots Iager that day.

“Alfred Ramsden said that about a quarter past 7 o’clock he sold Fox two bottles of Victoria bitter ale.” The beer had been sold at the back door of Purcell’s store

“Daniel McLeish, hotelkeeper, said that between 9 and 10 p.m. on July 22 he handed Wagstaff, who was accompanied by Fox, two bottles of Abbot's lager labelled U61.

“Mr Menzies: Would they leave with the bottles?

“Witness: No; they coolly sat down by the fire, so I took the light and left them in the dark.

“Continuing, McLelsh said that between 11.30 p.m. and midnight Fox and Wagstaff again came to the hotel for beer.

“Witness's son said: "Give them a bottle to got rid of thern."

“Wagstaff went into the parlor and Fox followed witness outside, and was given a bottle of Abbot's lager labelled U61.

“Fox dropped the bottle and it broke. Witness gave him another bottle of the same brand, and the two men departed.

“The bottle was then in the possession of Fox. During that day witness sold no other Abbot's lager Maurice M'Lelsh, motor driver, son of the previous witness, said he saw Fox and Wagstaff in the hotel between 11.45 and 11.50 p.m. on July 22.

“To Mr. Caplcs: I was in the hotel bar that day, but did not serve any bottled beer.

“Evidence was then called, to show that there was no Abbot's U61

“Fox replied, "Yes; about this murder. I had nothing to do with it."

“Proceeding, Bruce said that he said to Fox: "Were you at the dance on Saturday night?" Fox answered: "Yes. .

"Witness said: "How were you dressed?" Fox said: "In a blue suit and tan boots." On the floor witness saw a blue suit and picked it up. It smelt of 'kerosene. Witness examined the clothes and saw several bloodstains on the trousers, coat and vest.

“

Witness said: "How do you account for the fresh bloodstain?" Fox replied: "I bad a court case about a month ago. I got drunk and fell over and cut my eye. That is how I got the blood on my clothes."

“Witness said: "You have been cleaning this with kerosene?" Fox said: "Yes."

“Witness said: "When and Fox replied, "On Friday, after the court case."

“Witness said: "This kerosene is wet. If you had cleaned thc suit, then it would have evaporat ed." Fox said: "Thai's when I put it on."

“Witness said: "Have you cleaned tho suit since?"- Fox replied: "No.".

Considerable amounts of blood were seen on the tie and hat that Fox had worn on the Saturday night.

“Froceeding, Bruce said he asked Fox to show his hands. Fox did so. On the ball of each thumb and one finger of each hand were several cuts. Witness said: "How did you get theso cuts?" Fox replied: "By cutting tobacco."

“Witness asked: "Are you right or Ieft-lianded”? Fox said he was right-hand ed. Witness then asked: "How do you account for the cuts on tho left thumb?"

“Fox answered: "You cut both hands cutting tobacco." Witness said: "But these cuts are diagonal and all ways." Fox replied: "That is how 1 done it." '

“Fox answered: "I don't care, I never done it." Witness took Fox to the police station, where he made a statement.

‘Mrs McLaughlin frustrated the designs of the man’ History

■ Reuben Fox pleaded not guilty to the murder of Mrs Josephine McLaughlin at Yea in 1922, when the case went to Court in September of that year.

A press report said: “Before Mr Justice Cussen, in the Criminal Court to-day, the trial was commenced of Reuben Fox, aged 29, on a charge of having at Yea, on or about 22nd July last, murdered Josephine Jane M‘Laughlin married woman.

“The accused pleaded not guily in loud, clear tones, and challenged three urors to the Crown’s six. He was defended by Mr H. Shelton

“The case ‘for the Crown as outlined by Mr Macindoe, was that a social evening was being held in the Shire Hall at Yea on the evening of 22nd July last, and the deceased woman, who was much respected, and was living in happy relations with her husband and family, was present as a spectator.

“When she left the hall it wad alleged that she was followed soon afterwards by the accused, and that there was a chain of circumstances that connected him with the discovery of her dead body at the river side on the following morning.

“The evidence was a repetition of that previously given and the hearing of the case had not concluded when the count adjourned.”

The Argus (Sep. 22, 1922) said: “Mrs. McLaughlin was murdered while returning alone from a ball in the Yea Hall, and the Crown case, as outlined by Mr. Macindoe on the previous day, is that Fox, having been repulsed by the woman, murdered her with a blow on the head with a beer bottle and put her body in the Yea River

“Mr. H. Shelton has been retained by the Crown for the defence of Fox . He is instructed by Mr. Caples, of Yea

“The first witness called yesterday was Detective James Bruce , who went into the box carrying the clothes alleged to have been worn by Fox on the night of the tragedy.

“He said that on the road to the river he found bloodstains on a wire fence, and a strand of hair near where the broken lager beer bottle was found.

“On July 25 he interviewed Fox Witness said to Fox, "I suppose yon know what I have come for?" Fox said "Yes, you have come about the murder, but I know nothing about it." Asked for the clothes he had worn, Fox produced various articles in which he said that he was attired on that night.

“The coat was bloodstained on the lapel and under the right arm. Asked how he accounted for the bloodstains, Fox said, "I fell down and cut my face some days ago."

“A witness called the attention of Fox to the fact that the kerosene stains on the coat were freshly put on, apparently for the purpose of cleaning. Fox replied. "Anyway, that is when it was put on."

“Turning over a quilt Bruce found a wet handkerchief. Fox said that he had used the handkerchief to clean his suit some weeks earlier.

“Upon the hat which Fox wore there were fresh bloodstains.

“Mr. Shelton objected to it being put to the jury that the stains were fresh. There was no evidence of it so far.

“Bruce, continuing, said that he examined Fox's fingers and found both thumbs and the third and fourth

finger on both hands cut in different directions. Fox said that he had injured his fingers when cutting tobacco.

“Bruce replied, "You could not cut the fingers on both hands while cut ting tobacco. You may think that by cutting your fingers you can obliterate your finger prints, but the skin will grow."

“Fox said, "I do not care. I did not do it."

“

Bruce then put in a statement which was made by Fox. In the statement Fox said that on July 22 he was at a football match in the afternoon. He had been drinking with George Wagstaff

“When he heard the music in the hall he went over, but he left the hall through the shire hall yard. He went home alone and saw nobody.

“

Mr. Shelton -Did you see Fox about during your investigation on the Sunday between the day of the tragedy and the day of his arrest? Bruce.Yes.

“He was posed in most of the photographs taken by the newspaper men, was he not? -I do not know.

“He made no attempt to burn or destroy the clothes did he?-Not as far as I know.

“Do you know now that after two months the suit still smells of kerosene?-Yes, and I know that the suit has been confined in a box since I took possession of it.

“

Dr. Clarence George Godfrey, Government medical officer, said that he had examined the fingers of Fox on August 4 and August 11. There were a number of cuts on the fingers and thumbs which had been made within three weeks of the day of ex animation.

“

Mr. Shelton.-Have the cuts now disap peared ? Dr. Godfrey entered the dock and examined Fox's hands. He said that they had disappeared except for a scar on the left thumb.

“

Mr. Shelton .-Is that a permanent scar? Dr. Godfrey.-I would not say that. It is a bruise or a cut of a different type to the others.

“John Searle, a mounted constable of police, said that he played in the band on the night of the ball at Yea. He described the finding of the body in the Yea River.

“

Mr. Shelton.-When, Crisp was detained, there were bloodstains upon his clothing were there not?

“Searle.-A few spots. “What became of his boots? Were they retained ?-No. ?

“Mr. Justice Cussen.-How is this im portant?

“

Mr. Shelton.-The police fitted the boot of Crisp into the impression

on the river bank.

“Senior Constable Commons said that he compared Fox's left boot with a footprint on the bank of the river. They corres ponded exactly.

“John George Hoddon said that on June 26 he saw Fox fall over and cut his face. Fox did not get any blood on his clothes. He was cut on the cheek, and he had blood about the eye.

“Witness, in reply to Mr. Shelton, said that he took Fox home and put him to bed. Fox might have had some bloodstains which escaped his notice.

“ George Barnes and Angus McArthur, fingerprint experts connected with the Criminal Investigation Department, pro duced fingerprint photographs to show that Fox's fingers had been mutilated.

“Charles Albert Edward Price said that he examined Fox's coat and detected a blood discoloration. On the outside of the right sleeve he noticed small stains as well as one on the left sleeve and the back. On portion of the lining he discovered human blood.

“On various other parts of the clothing he found blood. Some of it proved to be of human origin.

“Mr Shelton said that a chain was no stronger than its weakest link. When he came to the end of his defence he thought that the jury would say that every link was so weak that no reliance could be placed upon any of them.

“Fox would go into the box and tell them where he was that day.

“The accused left the ballroom 20 minutes after Mrs. McLaughlin, and it was shown that Mrs. McLaughlin lived within 10 minutes' walk of the hall.

“Reuben Fox said that he was a single man, and he "bached" alone in a house in Yea

“He had nothing whatever to do with the death of Mrs. McLaughlin On the morning of the tragedy he was at work in a paddock known as Oliver's paddock.

“During the morning he went to the river to obtain some opossum skins, and later he came home to lunch.

“Having dressed he went into the township and bought some meat and vegetables, and visited several hotels.

“One of the bottles of beer purchased was placed by him behind an engine near the shire hall.

“Mr. Justice Cussen.-What became of it?

“Fox.-I have no idea. I could not find it.

“ Mr. Shelton .-Did you see McLaughlin near the Shire Hall?

Caples of Yea) is appearing for the defence.

“Dr Colin Campbell, who was unable through illness to attend the last hearing, was among the first witnesses yesterday.

“He described cuts and wounds on the head of the dead woman. She had a bruise on the neck as if she had been seized by the throat. Death, which was due to cerebral hemorrhage, had occurred before the body entered the water.

“Michael McLaughlin, husband of the dead woman, repeated the evidence given at the previous trial. He said that his wife eft to go to the ball with his full permission - in fact, it was he who had suggested that she should go.

“Fox-Yes.

“McLaughlin (from the body of the Court).-You are a liar.

“Mr. Shelton.-Tell us what occurred.

“Fox.-I saw a man there, and I said "Is that you, Wagstaff?" The man said "No, it is Mick." I said "Can you do with a drink, Mick?" and he said "Yes." I gave him a drink out of the bottle, and thinking that McLaughlin looked like a man who had consumption, I decided that would not drink out of the same bottle. I went away, and I did not come back

“You heard the schoolboys say that you went in the same direction as Mrs McLaughlin. What do you sav to that?-

“Lies; I went home around the back of Oliver's paddock. I saw a hotel waitress in a doorway with a man. I know the girl. I got home at 10 minutes after 12 o'clock.

“Where were you on the Sunday morn ing.-On the Sunday, morning I saw McLaughlin , and he said, "I have lost my wife," I said, "Yes; so you were telling me."

“Had he been telling you?-Yes; on the previous night he told me that his wife had left him. After we talked for a while on the Sunday he said, "I think my wife is in the river: that old ___, Bill Crisp, did it." I said "Why do you think that Crisp would do it?" and he said, " I do not know."

The Argus (Sept. 22, 1922) reported that the jury, after six gours deliberation, failed to agree in the case.

“His Honor said the case was a peculiar one, and that possibly further investigtion would not be undesirable. Bailwas refused,” noted The Herald.

Reuben’s second trial took place in October. The Argus said:

“Sitting calmly with folded aims, Reuben Fox , a labourer aged 28 yearslistened in the dock of the Criminal Court yesterday to the evicence given in his second trial for the murder of Josephine Jane McLaughlin , wife of Michael McLaughlin, a labourer of Yea, on or about July 22. Mr Justice Schutt is on the bench.

“Fox challenged seven of those called to act on the jury. It was his only manifestation of interest for the day. Seven of those called stood aside on challenges by the Crown “Proceedings in the present case were practically the same as those of the previous trial. Mr Norman O'Brien has joined Mr Macindoe in the conduct of the Crown case, and Mr Shelton (instructed by Mr. T.

“He had never quarrelled with her at any time and there was no truth in the statement that he had said that if she went to another ball "it wouldbe her last."

“It was also untrue that he had sought to borrow a gun for the purpose of shooting his wife.

“He reported the story of his search during the night and of the finding of his wife's body in the river in the morning.

“A pathetic figure was Michael Harold McLaughlin, the son, aged 10 years, of the ormer witness. In answer to Mr Justice Schutt he said that he knew that if he told lies he would go to hell.

“On the night in question he could not sleep as the lights were lit and he was crying "be cause mother did not come home."

“His father remained m the house until 4 o'clock in the morning.

“Mr Justice Schutt-How do you know that it was 4 o'clock ?

“Witness-Because father said, "it is 4 o'clock." He then took the hurricane lamp and went out to look for mother.

“Henry Dean, a schoolboy, said that he was at the Yea Shire Hall on the night of the dance. He saw Mrs McLaughlin leave the hall, and soon after Fox left the hall, crossed over the plantation and passed down the road in the direction that Mrs McLaughlin had taken.

“Mr Maeindoe said that it was suggested bv the defence that Detective Bruce wished to convict someone and e did not care who it was.

“The defence was based on lies and the most cruel of thcase was the he which sought to put the blame upon McLaughlin the husband of the dead woman.”

The Age (Oct. 21, 1922) reported that the jury in the second trial had also failed to agree.

“Mr Justice Schutt addressing the jury, said - It is a most regrettable thing but I am sure that jou have done your best, you are now finally discharged.”

“Fox said that it was possible that his footprints were on the bank of a river at a certain place, as he had gone there to hide opossum skins. He had never recovered the opossum skins.

“Referring to this statement, Superintendent Potter said that if Mr Macindoe, the Crown Prosecutor, desired tit, a detective would bo sent to Yea to make a search lor tlie skins.

A third trial of Reuben Fox was ordered, with Fox remanded again. Mr Justice Mann was on the bench on November 21. Continued on Next Page

● ● ● ● High Street, Yea, in the early 1900s.

Accused man found not guilty, discharged History

■ Reuben Fox was acquitted of the Yea murder, when the case was heard for the third time in November 1922.

The Herald (Nov. 24) reported:

“Summing up at the Yea murder trial in the Criminal Court this morning, Mr Justice Mann drew the jury's attention to the fact that of five or six witnesses who testified to having seen Fox on June 26, only one witness, called by the accused, saw blood running or dripping from a wound over his eye.

“The third trial of Reuben Fox, 29, sanitary contractor, on a charge of having murdered Mrs Josephine Jane McLaughlin at Yea on or about July 22, was concluded before Mr Justice Mann and a jury.- Fox was found not guilty, and was discharged.

“Mr H. C. S. Macindoe was in charge of the case for the Crown , and Mr H. Shelton (instructed by Mr T. Caples, of Yea) conducted tho defence. “ Fox , when giving evidence, claimed that the bloodstains alleged to have been found by the police, on his clothes after the murder, came from a wound which he had received; over the eye on June 26, when in a drunken condition.

“Further commenting upon that phase of tho evidence, Mr Justice Mann said that none of tho witnesses had observed any traces of blood on Fox's clothing.

“One man stated that he took Fox home and put him to bed without seeing any bloodstained clothing.

“Haying lived alone, said his Honor, Fox had not the ordinary opportunities of proving an alibi.

“It had been put to the jury that Fox visited McLaughlin's house the day after the murder, and that that was not the action of guilty man.

“On tho other hand, the Crown said that it was quite consistent with guilt, that Fox went there to find out how the land lay.

“After the jury retired, Mr Justice Mann, in reply to a point raised by Mr Maclndoe, said he was satisfied that there was no evidence in regard to Fox's state of mind that would justify a finding of manslaughter.

“There were loud cheers all over the court, and especially in the gallery, when at 3.20 p.m. the jury brought in its vordict.

“It was a tense moment for Fox, but his face brightened in a flash.

“Facing Detective Bruce, Fox almost shrieked, "How do you like that, Bruco?"

“As Fox left the dock several rela tives and friends made a wild rush to congratulate him. They were told by t he police to keep away.

“There was not eve n standing room in the court. Outside the court several salvoes of applause were heard.

“After embracing and shaking hands with his relatives and friends in the sorridor, Fox wormed his way through an excited crowd into Lonsdale street, where he received a further ovation.

“He walked down the street with a body of supporters and disappcared into a shop.”

The Argus report noted that the witness who sold Fox some meat on the day of thc murder was positive that Fox did not call for it on that night; and another witness (Forbes) had said that Fox did not call at his house for a bag.

“He ( Fox) had said, that he had

done. The wituess McClure was sure, on the other hand, that Fox had called and obtained the bag as stated. “Fox having lived alone was not in a position to prove an alibi. They should bc guarded in accepting any evi dence in respect to time and intervals of time when the person giving the evidence was relying on memory and had not looked at a watch. That would be considered in connection with thc interval between the time that Mrs. McLaughlin was said to have left the dance hall at Yea and the time at which Fox was said to have left.

“It was urged by thc defence, that Fox could, had hc so desired, have burnt the blood-stained necktie and that it would never have been missed.

“He had, the defence urged, given over his clothes freely for examination.

“Before retiring thc foreman asked Mr. Justice Mann, in view of the fact that 1/- had been found in a handkerchief in the possession of Mrs. McLaughlin, whether there was any evidence that a charge had been made for attending the ball.

“

Mr. Justice Mann.-There is no evi dence except that it was in aid of the band, and therefore it could hardly have been a free entertainment.

“Thc Foreman . - Did not only one witness say that this woman was seen at the dance?

“

Mr. Shelton.-One other witness be sides Tosh had seen her at the dance.

“By direction of Mr. Justice Mann, William Henry Tomkin was recalled. He said that the price of admission to the dance was 2/, but that women were ad mitted free.

“The Foreman asked if Fox in his evi dence had said "I gave McLaughlin a drink" or "I gave McLaughlin the beer."

"

Mr. Justice Mann read extincts from the evidence which showed that Fox had said that he had given McLaughlin the bottle.

“Weeping women and girls and gcsticulating men and youths pressed towards and fought for the court exit in order to secure positions outside for the welcoming of the man who, after three trials, including two disagreements, had at last been relieved of legal responsibility for one of the most terrible crimes in Victorian history.

“Outside the court was a scene of wild excitement. Some 300 to' 400 persons had gathered, including relatives and friends of the accused. In the excitement of the moment wild things were said and some stupid and probably idle threats were made.

“At length Fox, bearing in hand his spare boots. and other garments, appeared in the lane that leads from the quadrangle.

“His eyes glittering with suppressed excitement, he approached the waiting crowd and was literally receivcd into its arms, women and girls kissing him and men and youths shaking his hand and showering congratulations upon him.

“Escorted by a crowd of quite 200 persons the released man walked down Lonsdale-street, stopping here and there to receive further congratulations from passers by who heard the news.

“Imagining, in view of certain idle threats overheard outside the court, that some offence might be offered to tho unfortunatc man, one or two interested persons followed liim down the street.

“Nothing happened until the little party abend reached Elizabethstreet

“At that moment Fox, accompanied by a number of female relatives and friends, stepped on to the Brunswick car.

“Immediately the party on the tram car caught sight of McLaughlin's party, a yell of offensive derision, accompanied by waving of handkerchiefs and shouts of laughter, greeted the little family party

“The long, lingering look of the unfortunate husband as he met the derisive faces of his tormentors was something that witnesses arc hardly likely to forget.

“It was perhaps the most sordid and disgusting incident of the whole trial.

“After four hours' deliberation the jury returned into court with a verdict of not guilty.

“Fox turned in the dock to where Detec tive Bruce was standing and asked "How do you like that Bruce?"

“Several people in the court broke into cheers and, in spite of an admonitory ges ture from the court crier, continued to cheer.

“Fox was discharged, and the crowd hur ried out of court and broke into cheers as he appeared.

“Thc police cleared the crowd; and the people walked down Lonsdale street.

“McLaughlin, the husband of the murdered woman, who had sat a melan- choly and wasted figure during the whole of the three trials shook hands with Detective Bruce and left the court.

“He went into the street, and passing down Lonsdale street met the crowd that had been cheering Fox “Thc assemblage broke into cat calls and derisive shouts.”

The Age newspaper headlined its coverage as ‘The Yea MurderScenes of Excitement - A Sordid Incident’.

“The third trial of Reuben Fox, 29, ex-sanitary contractor, on the charge of murdering Josephine Jane McLaughlin, at Yea, on 22nd July last, in circumstances that were extremely brutal and revolting, came to a sensational termination at 3.30p.m. yesterday.

“The jury, after four hours' retirement, returned a verdict of not giulty amid a scene ot great excitement.

The tension, particularly amongst those intimately associated with the accused mnn, was obviously great, and the foreman's announcement was received with a yell of relief, followed by cheers that rang through the court.

“The majority of tlhe spectators, however, were silent.

“He replied rapidly and excitedly. At length the crowd reached Elizabcth-street , and gradually melted away, leaving Fox, some relatives, witnesses and friends wailing for a Brunswick tram car.

“Then occurred an incident that was at once extremely sordid and distasteful

“McLaughlin, the husband of the murdered woman, accompanied by his sistcr-in-law. (a sister of the dead woman), his little boy and two friends, emerged into Lonsdalestreet and moved slowly down to wards Elizabeth-street, talking.

“He was stopped several times to receive the sympathy and regret of persons who expressed their repugnance at tlie gross suggestions made at the trial that he ( McLaughlin) might have been aseociated with his wife's tragic end.

“McLaughlin, who has been in indifferent health (owing to chest trouble) for a long time, replied with somewhat pathetic words of thanks, andcontinued his way.

“So ended the trial of Reuben Fox. Mr. Justice Mann, in his summing up, leaned neither to the prosecution nor to the de fence, but he emphasised the dangers of certain points of the circumstantial evidence.

“After the jury bad asked several questions and retired, Mr. Macindoe, Crown Prosecutor , asked liis Honor to direct the jury that it was open to them to return a finding of manslaughter.

“Mr. Justice Mann: I am satisfied there is no evidence that would justify the jury in reducing the charge of murder to one of manslaughter. I have carefully considered that.

“So a plain issue of guilty or not guilty of murder, it went to the jury, with the result stated.

“Now the terrible murder of Josephine Jane McLaughlin, a decent, respectable married woman, mother of three little cliildren and breadwinner of the McLaughlin household, stands unpunished.

“Somewhere in Victoria a foul murderer walks free, and there was a general hope expressed yesterday that Nemiises - a false step, and unremitting vigilance by the police — will yet overtake him.”

- Ash Long

“The official comamnd for silence rang throughout the court. It passed un heeded. ●

● ● From The Herald. November 24, 1922.

WEEKEND’S LOCAL FOOTBALL MATCH RESULTS

Amateurs

■ Victorian Amateur Football Association. Premier Men’s. Old melburnians 15.13 (103) d Collegians 12.10 (82). St Bernards 11.12 (78) d Fitzroy 11.10 (76). St Kevins 12.10 982) d Old Xaverians 9.8 (62). Old Scotch 9.4 (58) d University Blacks 7.7 (49). Old Br5ighton 14.16 (100) d University Blues 11.14 (70).

■ Premier Men’s Reserves. Collegians 8.15 (63) d Old Melburnians 7.11 (53). St Bernards 13.13 (91) d Fitzroy 7.4 (46). Old Xaverians 6.10 (46) d St Kevins 6.9 (45). Old Scotch 12.9 (81) d University Blacks 2.8 (20). University Blues 12.11 (83) d Old Brighton 6.7 (43).

■ Premier B Men’s. Old Trinity 12.8 (80) d Old Haileybury 8.14 (62). Old Camberwell 10.15 (75) d Old Ivanhoe 9.15 (69). Old Geelong 15.11 (101) d Williamstown CYMS 8.15 (63). De La Salle 9.21 (75) d Beaumaris 8.8 (56). CCaulfield Grammarians 13.13 (91) d St Bedes/Mentone Tigers 12.7 (79).

■ Premier B Men’s Reserves. Old Trinity 12.18 (80) d Old Haileybury 7.5 (47). Old Ivanhoe 17.14 (116) d Old Camberwell 4.7 (31). Williamstown CYMS 7.8 (50) d Old Geelong 6.3 (39). De La Salle 9.10 (64) d Beaumaris 4.13 (37). St Bedes/Mentone Tigers 13.15 (93) d Caulfield Grammarians 5.2 (32).

■ Premier C Men’s. AJAX 16.14 (110) d Marcellin 7.5 (47). Old Carey 11.16 (82) d Monash Blues 10.7 (67). Mazenod 12.11 (83)

d PEGS 6.12 (48). Parkdale 29.22 (196) d Glen Eira 3.5 (23). Hampton Rovers 9.21 (75) d Oakleigh 7.7 (49).

■ Premier C Men’s Reserves. AJAX 15.16 (116) d Marcellin 5.6 (36). Old Carey 13.14 (92) d Monash Blues 9.7 (61). Mazenod 9.13 (67) d PEGS 6.4 (40). Parkdale Vultures 20.14 (134) d Glen Eira 6.1 (37). Hampton Rovers 18.19 (127) d Oakleigh 1.5 (11).

■ Division 1 Men’s. Prahran 14.11 (95) d Ormond 8.13 (61). UHS-VU 10.12 (72) d Parkside 9.12 (66). Therry Penola 15.11 (101)

d West Brunswick 7.9 (51). Kew 15.15 (105)

d Preston Bullants 8.6 (54). Old Peninsula 13.9 (87) de Old Yarra 4.7 (31).

■ Division 1 Men’s Reserves. Ormond 14.17 (101 d Prahran 10.10 (70). Parkside 12.9 (81) d UHS-VU 7.7 (49). West Brunswick 16.14 (110) d Therry Penola 7.6 (48). Preston Bullants 8.120 (58) d Kew 3.9 (27). Old Yarra Cobras 9.14 (68) d Old Peninsula 7.6 (48).

■ Division 2 Men’s. Whitefriars 10.7 (67) de St Marys Salesian 6.17 (53). Wattle Park 14.4 (88) d Aquinas 9.12 (66). Brunswick

13.6 (84) d Elsternwick 8.15 (63).Hawthorn 16.15 (111) d MHSOB 11.11 (77). South Melbourne Districts 13.11 (89) d Bulleen Templestiowe 5.5 (35).

■ Division 2 Men’s Reserves. St Marys Salesian 11.12 (78)_ d Whitefriars 6.2 (38). Wattle Park 20.10 (130) d Aquinas 16.7 (103). Brunswick 22.15 (147) d Elsternwick 8.l9 (57). MHSOB 18.11 (119) d Hawthorn 9.6 (60). South Melbourne Districts 14.11 (95) d Bulleen Templestowe 18.11 (119).

■ Division 3 Men’s. St Johns 23.17 (155) d La Trobe University 9.8 (62). Power House 14.16 (100) d Canterbury 14.9 (93). Swinburne University v Chadstone. Albert Park 20.6 (126) d Box Hill North 12.15 (87). North Brunswick v Richmond Central. Eley Park: Bye.

■ Division 3 Men’s Reserves. St John’s 10.16 (76) d La Trobe 4.10 (34). Power House 8.7 (55) d Canterbury 8.4 (52). Swinburne University d Chadstone. Box Hill North 10.15 (75) d Albert Park 5.15 (45). North Brunswick v Richmond Central. Eley Park: Bye.

■ Under 19 Premier Men’s. St Bedes/Mentone 13.14 (92) d Williamstown CYMS 4.9 (33). Old Brighton 12.16 (88) d St Kevin’s 6.8 (44). Caulfield Grammarians 12.12 (84) d Beaumaris 9.9 (63). Old Xaverians 15.10 (100) d Uni Blues 12.8 (80). Old Scotch 15.19 (109) d De La Salle 1.6 (12).

■ Under 19 Division 1 Men’s. Hampton Rovers 19.7 (121) d Glen Eira 8.7 (55). Old Heileybury 21.14 (140) d Old Trinity 11.16 (82). St Bernards 13.15 (93) d Fitzroy 4.13

(37). Old Carey 19.14 (128) d University Blacks 3.5 (23). Old Melburnians 11.10 976) d Old Xaverians 10.5 (65).

■ Under 19 Division 2 Men’s. Old Ivanhoe 8.17 (65) d Old Camberwell 6.13 (49). Parkdale Vultures 14.7 (91) d Parkdale 6.7 (43). St Bedes/Mentone 2 17.15 (117) d Mazenod 9.7 (61). University Blues 9.12 (66) d St Kevins 2 4.6 (30).

■ Under 19 Division 3 Men’s. Monash Blues 9.7 (61) d Kew 6.12 (48). Oakleigh 6.13 (49) d PEGS 4.4 (28). Therry Penola 16.12 (108) d MHSOB 7.9 (51). Ormond 11.10 (76) d St Marys Salesian 3.13 (31). Preston 15.10 (100) d Bulleen Templestowe 4.10 (34). Collegians: Bye.

■ Under 19 Division 4 Men’s. Beaumaris

2 22.24 (156) d St Kevins 3 4.3 (27). Old Xaverians 3 20.21 (141) d Glen Eira 2 6.8 (44). St Bernards 2 14.14 (98) d De La Salle

2 9.12 (66). Williamstown CYMS 2 10.13 (73) d Caulfield Grammarians 9.16 (70).

■ Thirds Division 1 Men’s. Fityzroy 12.14 (986) d Old Trini9ty 13.6 (84). Old Xaverians 15.14 (104) d Old Geelong 9.6 (60). Old Brighton 19.15 (129) d Old Melburnians 5.3 (33).

■ Thirds Division 2 Men’s. Collegians v Old Xaverians. University Blacks 15.13 (103) d Richmond Central 6.8 (44). Ajax v Beaumaris. Williamstown CYMS: Bye.

■ Thirds Division 3 Men’s North. Ajax Thirds 10.19 (79) d Marcellin 5.5 (35). Parkside 19.11 (125) d Whitefriars 8.4 (52). Old Camberwell 20.16 (136) d South Melbourne 2.2 (14). Masala 14.9 (93) d West Brunswick 1.6 (12).

■ Thirds Division 3 Men’s South. Old Brighton 19.8 (122) d Old Scotch 6.8 (44). Williamstown CYMS 11.10 (76) d Hampton Rovers 9.12 (66).Mentone Panthers 14.15 (99) d Glen Eira 4.7 (31). St Kevins 10.11 (71) d Old Xaverians 7.8 (50).

■ Thirds Division 4 Men’s North. Hawthorn 9.20 (74) d MHSOB 4.126 (40). Marcellin 12.10 (82) d Canterbury 3.4 (22). Old Carey 19.19 (133) d Old Yarra Cobras 0.2 (2). UHS-VU 230.21 (141) d Swinburne 4.2 (26). Kew 17.10 (112) d Box Hill 5.8 (38).

■ Thirds Division 4 Men’s South. De La Salle 13.13 (91) d Mazenod 6.9 (45). Parkdale 10.17 (77) d Monash Blues 5.6 (36). Ormond 9.23 (77) d St Marys Salesian 6,7 (43). Wattle Park 13.14 (92) d Elsternwick 6.13 (49). Oakleigh 17.12 (114) d Masala 2.2 (14).

■ Thirds Premier Men’s. Uni Blues 16.15 (111) d St Bernards 5.4 (34). Old Xaverians 16.10 (106) d St Kevins 6.9 (45). Old Scotch 11.5 (71) d Fitzroy 6.6 (42).

Eastern

■ Eastern Football Netball League. Premier Seniors. Balwyn 25.13 (163) d Norwood 9.7 (61). Blackburn 14.11 (95) d Vermont 10.11 (71). Noble Park 8.13 (61) d Doncaster East 7.9 (51). Rowville 21.14 (140) d Berwick 10.4 (64). East Ringwood 16.18 (114) d South Croydon 9.9 (63).

■ Premier Reserves. Balwyn v Norwood. Blackburn 7.11 (53) d Vermont 7.7 (49). Noble Park 11.9 (75) d Doncaster East 7.6 (48). Rowville 9.8 (62) d Berwick 4.4 (28). East Ringwood 6.10 (48) d South Croydon 5.4 (34).

■ Premier Under 19.5. Rowville 10.6 (66)

d Berwick 8.13 (61). Doncaster East 13.8 (86) d Noble Park 7.11 (53). Balwyn v Norwood./ Blackburn Black 12.5 (77) d Vermont Purple 9.7 (61). East Ringwood: Bye.

■ Division 1 Seniors. Bayswater 12.7 (79)

d Doncaster 5.13 (43). Mitcham 14.13 (97)

d Mooroolbark 9.11 (65). Beaconsfield 12.10 (82) d North Ringwood 10.15 (75). Montrose 19.9 (123) d South Belgrave 7.14 (56). Park Orchards 12.14 (86) d Wantirna South 7.9 (51).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Doncaster 7.6 (48)

d Bayswater 5.8 (38). Mitcham 14.11 (95) d Mooroolbark 3.3 (21). North Ringwood 7.10 (52) d Beaconsfield 7.6 (48). Montrose 8.6 (54) d South Belgrave 6.6 (42). Park Orchards 9.6 (60) d Wantirna South 6.7 (43).

■ Division 1 Under 19.5. Surrey Park 19.17 (131) d Bayswater 1.1 (7). Mitcham

14.16 (100) d Mooroolbark 4.1 (25). Beaconsfield 5.7 (37) d North Ringwood 3.9 (27). South Belgrave 10.13 (73) d Montrose 8.5 (53). Park Orchards 11.11 (77) d Wan-tirna South 6.3 (39).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Boronia 20.18 (138) d Mulgrave 4.3 (27). Ringwood 9.11 (65) d East Burwood 4.9 (33). Templestowe 16.15 (111) d The Basin 6.6 (42). Waverley Blues 13.13 (91) d Heathmont 4.3 (27). Croydon 13.4 (82) d Lilydale 7.7 (49).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Boronia 12.6 (78) d Mulgrave 3.5 (23). East Burwood 15.9 (99) d Ringwood 2.3 (15). Templestowe 6.9 (45). Heathmont 3.9 (27) d Waverley Blues 3.6 (24). Croydon 9.5 (59) d Lilydale 6.8 (44).

■ Division 2 Under 19.5. Mulgrave 13.12 (90) d The Basin 8.4 (52). Heathmont 7.10 -52) d Waverley Blues 7.9 (51). Croydon 10.9 (69) d Lilydale 3.4 (22). East Burwood: Bye.

■ Division 3 Seniors. Coldstream 13.11 (89) d Knox 10.5 (65). Donvale 8.14 (62) d Surrey Park 8.9 (57). Silvan 10.11 (71) d Fairpark 7.8 (50). Oakeligh District 10.23 (83) d Warrandyte 11.7 (73). Upper Ferntree Gully 10.7 (67) d Ferntree Gully 4.4 (28).

■ Division 3 Reserves. Knox 8.5 (53) d Coldstream 5.7 (37). Donvale v Surrey Park. Fairpark 7.9 (51) d Silvan 5.10 (40). Oakleigh District 12.8 (80) d Warrandyte 8.7 (55). Upper Ferntree Gully 10.13 (73) d Ferntree Gully 5.1 (31).

■ Division 3 Under 19.5. Knox 21.20 (146) d Coldstream 1.0 (6). Donvale v Surrey Park. Upper Ferntree Gully 11.11 (77) d Ferntree Gully 9.3 (47). Fairpark: Bye. Warrandyte: Bye.

■ Division 4 Seniors. Nunawading 15.13 (103) d Croydon North 11.7 (73). Scoresby 21.14 (140) d Forest Hill 8.6 (54). Chirnside Park 16.10 (106) d Whitehoprser Pioneers 13.7 (85). Kilsyth: Bye.

■ Division 4 Reserves. Croydon North 1.1 (7) d Nunawading 0.0 (0). Scoresby 15.11 (101) d Forest Hill 1.3 (9). Whitehorse Pioneers 16.9 (105) d Chirnside Park 4.6 (30). Kilsyth: Bye.

■ Division 2 Seniors. Chirnside Park 6.8 (44) d Berwick 2.8 (20). Ferntree Gully/South Croydon 9.8 (62) d South Belgrave 3.9 (27). Blackburn v Kilsyth. Mitcham Yellow 5.12 (44) d Scoresby 4.6 (30). Wantirna South White: Bye.

Essendon District

■ Premier Division Seniors. Avondale Heights 9.9 (63) d Greenvale 7.9 (51). Aberfeldie 16.13 (109) d Airport West 10.14 (74). Keilor 21.12 (138) d Deer Park 9.8 (62). Strathmore 20.8 (128) d East Keilor 7.13 (55). Pascoe Vale 16.14 (110) d Essendon Doutta Stars 6.6 (42).

■ Premier Division Reserves. Greenvasle 15.13 (103) d Avondale Heights 2.7 (19). Aberfeldie 17.11 (113) d Airport West 2.7 (19). Keilor 49.21 (315) d Deer Park 0.0 (0). Strathmore 16.14 (110) d East Keilor 5.1 (31). Essendon Doutta Stars 7.109 (52) d Pascoe Vale 6.11 (47).

■ Premier Division Under 18.5. Avondale Heights 10.6 (66) d Greenvale 9.7 (61). Aberfeldcie 22.20 (152) d Airport West 0.1 (1). Strathmore 23.14 (152) d East Keilor 0.2 (2). Pascoe Vale 10.9 (69) d Maribyrnong Park 4.10 (34). Keilor: Bye.

■ Division 1 Seniors. Hillside 11.12 (78) d Craigieburn 8.9 (57). Roxburgh Park 11.9 (75) d Keilor Park 10.10 (70). Moonee Valley 15.15 (105) d Oak Park 11.7 (73). St Albansx 15.18 (108) d Rupertswood 5.6 (36). West Coburg 12.9 (81) d Maribyrnong Park 8.17 (65). Tullamarine: Bye.

■ Division 1 Reserves. Hillside 25.12 (162) d Craigieburn 1.2 (8). Keilor Park 13.5 (83) d Roxburgh Park 10.9 (69). Oak Park 11.14 (80) d Moonee Valley 8.11 (59). St Albans 18.7 (115) d Rupertswood 5.2 (32). Maribyrnong Park 13.12 (90) d West Coburg 6.4 (40). Tullamarine: Bye.

■ Division 1 Thirds. Hillside 12.9 (81) d Aberfeldie 7.6 (48). Keilor 18.25 (133) d Greenvale 0.0 (0). Maribyrnong Park 8.10 (58) d Oak Park 6.7 (43). Strathmore 12.10 (82) d Glenroy 4.12 (36).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Burnside Heights 18.21 (129) d Hadfield 5.6 (36). Coburg Districvts 12.16 (88) d Northern Saints 12.9 981). Westmeadowsa 26.15 (171) d East Sunbury 4.7 (31). Taylors Lakes 15.16 (106) d Sunbury Kangaroos 10.14 (74). Glenroy: Bye.

■ Division 2 Reserves. Burnside Heights 18.12 (120) d Hadfield 5.6 (36). Coburg Districts 11.7 (73) d Northern Saints 7.4 (46). Westmeadows 15.16 (106) d East Sunbury 3.2 (20). Taylors Lakes 12.16 (88) d Sunbury Kangaroos 3.2 (20). Glenroy: Bye.

■ Division 2 Thirds. Airport West 12.10 (82) d Avondale Heights 3.2 (20). Taylors Lakes 6.7 (43) d Hillside 4.8 (32). St Albans 9.17 (71) d Northern Saints 2.0 (12). Sunbury Kangaroos 11.14 (80) d Roxburgh Park 3.4 (22).

Morn. Peninsula

■ Division 1 Seniors. Mt Eliza 13.14 (92) d Dromana 7.11 (53). Red Hill 14.6 (90) d Frankston Bombers 6.10 (46). Sorrento 11.12 (78) d Frankston YCW 11.8 (74). Pines 10.6 (66) d Langwarrinn 8.14 (62). Mornington 18.5 (113) d Rosebud 14.13 (97).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Dromana v Mt Eliza. Red Hill 11.8 (74) d Frankston Bombers 8.3 (51). Frankston YCW 13.11 (89) d Sorrento 4.3 (30). Langwarrin 12.10 982) d Pines 6.3 (39). Rosebud 9.10 (64) d Mornington 8.11 (59).

■ Division 1 Under 19. Dromana v Mt Eliza. Frankston YCW 7.15 (57) d Sorrento 4.9 (33). Langwarrin 8.8 (56) de Pines 7.2 (44). Mornington 16.22 (118) d Rosebud 1.4 (10). Red Hill: Bye.

■ Division 2 Seniors. Tyabb 12.14 (86) d Rosebud 12.10 (82). Chelsea 20.19 (139) d Rye 5.4 (34). Crib Point 11.18 (84) d Karingal 7.13 (55). Devon Meadows 36.20 (236) d Hastings 5.2 (32). Edithvale-Aspendale 11.10 (76) d Somerville 11.7 (73). Pearcedale 15.14 (104) d Seaford 9.12 (66).

■ Division 2 Reserves. Tyabb 8.9 (57) d Bonbeach 6.2 (38). Chelsea 18.24 (132) d Rye 1.2 (8). Crib Point 23.13 (151) d Karingal 0.1 (1). Devon Meadows 17.15 (117) d Hastings 1.1 (7). Edithvale-Aspendale 14.9 (93) d Somerville 6.7 (43). Pearcedale 6.8 (44) d Seaford 5.8 (38).

■ Division 2 Under 19. Bonbeach 16.14 (110) d Tyabb 2.5 (17). Crib Point v Karingal. Devon Meadows 11.7 973) d Rye 8.4 (52). Edithvale-Aspendale 11.14 (80)) d Somerville 2.4 (16). Seaford 15.9 (99) d Pearcedale 6.7 (43).

Northern

■ Division 1 Seniors. Greensborough 15.19 (109) d Eltham 9.6 (60). Hurstbridge 12.14 (86) d Eltham 9.6 (60). Montmorency 11.16 (82) d Bundoora 9.6 (60). Banyule 12.22 (94) d Macleod 11.10 (76). Greensborough 13.8 (86) d West Preston-Lakeside 11.8 (74). Heidelberg 12.13 (85) d North Heidelberg 6.14 (50).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Greensborough 10.11 (71) d Eltham 9.7 (61). Heidelberg 17.12 (114) d North Heidelberg 5.1 (31). Hurstbridge 9.14 (68) d Eltham 7.12 (54). Montmorency 20.19 (139) d Bundoora 2.6 (18). Banyule 12.12 (84) d Macleod 8.11 (59). Greensborough 13.12 (90) d West PrestonLakeside 2.7 (19).

■ Division 1 Under 19.5. Eltham 10.12 (72) d Greensborough 8.7 (55). Banyule 7.1 (43) ed Eltham 1.4 (10). Greensborough 1 17.12 (114) d West Preston-Lakeside 1.7 (13). Diamond Creek 7.5 (47) d Montmorency 5.12 (47). Heidelberg 7.2 (44) d North Heidelberg 2.1 (13).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Whittlesea 10.14 (74) d St Mary’s 6.25 (61). Lower Plenty 10.17 (77) d Laurimar 10.13 (73). South Morang 14.18 (100) d Watsonia 11.8 974). Panton Hill 11.11 (77) d Northcote Park 11.6 (72). Diamond Creek 12.11 (83) d Thomastown 7.10 (52).

■ Division 2 Reserves. St Marys 10.12 (72) d Whittlesea 10.9 (69). Laurimar 14.11 (95) d Lower Plenty 4.6 (30). Watsonia 12.14 (86) d South Morang 8.5 (53). Panton Hill 34.21 (225) d Northcote Park 3.3 (21). Diamond Creek 10.10 (70) d Thomastown 6.9 (45).

SCORES FROM SATURDAY MATCHES

Northern

■ Division 2 Under 19.5. Hurstbridge 17.17 (119) d Thomastown 4.6 (30). St Mary’s 12.10 982) d Whittlesea 9.9 (63). Laurimar 10.12 (72) d Lower Plenty 4.3 (27). South Morang: Bye.

■ Division 3 Seniors. Old Eltham Collegians 11.;8 (74) d Epping 9.18 (72). Fitzroy Stars 15.15 (105) d Lalor 6.2 (38). Mernda 17.13 -115) d Heidelberg West 10.9 (69). Kilmore 13.18 (96) d Reservoir 4.8 (32). Old Paradians 6.6 (42) d Ivanhoe 5.6 (38). Kinglake: Bye.

■ Division 3 Reserves. Epping 12.12 (84)) d Old Eltham Collegians 10.6 (66). Fitzroy Stars 13.19 (97) d Lalor 6.3 (39). Kilmore 28.15 (183) d Reservoir 0.3 (3). Mernda 15.20 (110) d Heidelberg West 5.3 (33). Old Paradians 8.11 (59) d Ivanhoe 8.9 (57). Kinglake: Bye.

■ Division 3 Under 19.5. Greensborough 2 210.3 (63) d Diamond Creek 2 4.14 (38). Bundoora 15.17 (107) d Pasnton Hill 7.11 (53). Mernda 15.3 (93) d Old Paradians 8.9 (57). Macleod 13.3 (81) d Banyule 2 8.7 (55).

Outer East

■ Premier Division Seniors. Narre Warren 19.11 (125) d Pakenham 11.10 (76). Wandin 10.17 (77) d Mt Evelyn 10.11 (71). Upwey tecoma 11.14 (80) d Monbulk 8.10 (58). Olinda Ferny Creek 15.13 (103) d Emerald 6.9 (45). Woori Yallock 14.7 (910 d Officer 9.2 (56). Gembrook Cockatoo 10.8 (68) d Berwick Springs 8.12 (60).

■ Premier Division Reserves. Narre Warren 19.15 (129) d Pakenham 1.1 (7). Wandin 9.10 (64) d Mt Evelyn 2.7 (19). Upwey Tecoma 12.8 (80) d Monbulk 4.5 (29). Olinda Ferny Creek 9.12 (66) d Emerald 6.10 (46). Officer 17.13 (115) d Woori Yallock 5.5 (35). Berwick Springs 3.11 (29) d Gembrook Cockatoo 3.7 (25).

■ Division 1 Seniors. Yarra Junction 16.10 (106) d Powelltown 10.5 (65). Alexandra 22.9 (141) d Yea 10.5 (65). Warburton Millgrove 11.7 (73) d Seville 8.8 (56). Belgrave 25.12 (162) d Yarra Glen 8.5 (53). Healesville: Bye.

■ Division 1 Reserves. Powelltown 9.6 (60) d Yarra Junction 6.9 (45). Alexandra 14.9 (93) d Yea 0.6 (6). Seville 9.11 (65) d Warburton Millgrove 3.6 (24). Belgrave 23.17 (155) d Yarra Glen 0.3 (3). Healesville: Bye.

■ Under 19 Boys. Narre Warren 15.13 (103) d Pakenham 4.7 (31). Upwey Tecoma 13.14 (92) d Wandin 1.8 (14). Offiocer 9.10 (64) d Gembrook Cockatoo 6.6 (42).

■ Under 18 Boys. Mt Evelyn 13.14 (92) d Olinda ferny Creek 6.7 (43). Woori Yallock 13.15 (93) d Seville 3.5 (23). Healesville 14.14 (98) d Upwey Tecoma 4.8 (32).

■ Division 1 Women’s Seniors. Berwick Springs 2.4 (16) d Belgrave 1.3 (9). Upwey Tecoma 4.4 (28) d Pakenham 1.5 (11). Healesville 4.14 (38) d Olinda Ferny Creek 4.124 (38).

■ Division 2 Women’s Seniors. Monbulk 8.6 (54)) d Emerald 2.1 (13). Warburton Millgrove 9.9 (63) d Seville 5.7 (37). Woori Yallock 5.14 (44) d Officer 1.4 (10). Wandin 8.,10 (58) d Thornton Eildon 0.3 (3).

Southern

■ Division 1 Seniors. Bentleigh 13.16 (94) d Chelsea Heights 9.100 (64). Cheltenham 15.11 (101) d Dingley 10.5 (65)). St Paul’s McKinnon 15.12 (102) d Cranbourne Eagles 8.11 (59). Springvale Districts 15.14 (104) d East Brighton 9.10 (64). Mordialloc v Port Melbourne Colts.

■ Division 2 Seniors. East Malvern 9.15 (69) d Highett 8.7 (55). Hampton Park 8.14 (62) d Doveton Doves 9.7 (61)0. Caulfield Bears 15.6 (96) d Keysborough 13.17 (95). Murrumberena 16.17 (113) d St Kilda 10.8 (68). Endeavour Hills 12.8 (80) d Skye 8.100 (58).

■ Division 3 Seniors. Heatherton 12.13 (85) d Narre South Saints 8.7 (55). Carrum Patterson Lakes 14.5 (89) d Frankston Dolphins 12.8 (80). South Mornington 13.14 (92) d Black Rock 9.9 (63). Lyndhurst 14.5 (89) d Ashwood 10.7 (67)

■ Division 4 Seniors. Lyndale 15.15 (105) d Dandenong West 11.8 (74). Hampton 15.13 (103) d Hallam 3.11 (29). Clayton 10.9 (69) d Doveton Eagles 6.12 (48). Moorabbin Kangaroos 22.18 (150) d South Yarra 7.5 (47).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Bentleigh 17.29 (131) d Chelsea Heights 0.0 (0). Dingley 10.5 (65) d Cheltenham 9.3 (57). Cranbourne Eagles 15.7 (97) d St Paul’s McKinnon 4.1 (25). Springvale Districts 14.9 (9300 d East Brighton 4.5 (29). Mordialloc v Port Melbourne Colts.

■ Division 2 Reserves. East Malvbern 5.7 (37) drew with Highett 5.7 (37). Doveton Doves 8.13 (61) d Hampton Park 9.5 (59). Caulfield Bears 10.6 (66) d Keysborough 5.3 (33). Murrumbeena 16.11 (107) d St Kilda City 0.2 (2). Skye 7.14 (56)) d Endeavour Hills 6.8 (44).

■ Division 3 Reserves. Heatherton 8.14 (62) d Narre South Saints 4.8 (32). Frankston Dolphins 12.12 (84) d Carrum Patterson Lakes 4.7 (31). Black Rock 18.12 (120) d South Mornington 4.7 (31). Lyndhurst 10.6 (66) d Ashwood 9.4 (58).

■ Division 4 Reserves. Lyndale 22.9 (141) d Dandenong West 2.3 (15). Hampton 12.3 (75) d Hallam 7.11 (53). Clayton 16.20 (116) d Doveton Eagles 0.3 (3). Moorabbin Kangaroos 25.11 (161) d South Yarra 6.3 (39).

■ Open Grade Division 1. Cheltenham 12.11 (83) d Carrum Patterson Lakes 2.5 (17). Heatherhill 13.8 (86) d Lyndhurst 3.3 (21). Skye 10.6 (66) d Springvale Districts 5.7 (37). Dingley 10.10 (70) d Highett 9.8 (62).

■ Open Grade Division 2. Lyndale v Hallam. Endeavour Hills 7.5 (47) d Murrumbeena 3.9 (27). Lyndhusrt 7.6 (48) d Keysborough 6.6 (42). Narre South Saints v Black Rock.

■ Division 1 Under 19.5. Bentleigh 27.17 (179) d Chelsea Heights 3.2 (20). Frankston Dolphins 12.10 (82) d Endeavour Hills 6.6 (42). Cranbourne 7.4 (46) ed Highett 6.10 (46). Murrumbeena 10.16 (76) d Dingley 2.1 (13).

■ Division 2 Under 19.5. Cheltenham 25.17 (167) d Ashwood 6.2 (38). Carrum Patterson Lakes 17.18 (120) d Lyndhurst 4.3 (27). Heatherton 16.14 (110) d Narre South Saints 3.3 (21).

Western Region

■ Division 1 Seniors. Yarraville Seddon Eagles 17.15 (117) d Caroline Springs 6.9 (45). Spotswood 13.14 (92) d Hopp[ers Crossing 7.16 (58)./ Point Cook 7.16 (58) d Parkside 5.10 (40). Werribee District Seniors 11.17 (83) d Point Cook Centrals 10.10 (70).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Caroline Springs v Yarraville Seddon Eagles. Spotswood 12.6 (78) d Hoppers Crossing 10.8 (68). Point Cook 12.12 (84) d Parkside 3.3 (21)). Werribee Districts 18.22 (130) d Point Cook Centrals 3.5 (23).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Sunshine Heights v North Footscray. Suns v Laverton Magpies. Newport 21.21 (147) d Western Rams 5.5 (35). Albion 30.15 (195) d Albanvale 4.7 (31). Sunshine 37.31 (253) d North Sunshine 0.1 (1). Braybrook 19.10 (124) d Tarneit 4.8 (32). Wyndhamvale 7.17 (59) d West Footscray 7.12 (54).

■ Division 2 Reserves. North Footscray 17.11 (113) d Sunshine Heights 3.9 (27). Suns 19.21 (135) d Laverton Magpies 0.0 (0). Newport 25.16 (166) d Western Rams 0.0 (0).

Albion 13.17 (95) d Albanvale 3.1 (19). Sunshine 19.23 (197) d North Sunshine 0.0 (0). Braybrook 26.12 (172) d Tarneit 0.3 (3). West Footscray 9.8 (62) d Wyndhamvale 4.11 (35).

Country Leagues: Goulburn Valley

■ Seniors. Euroa 9.14 (68) d Tatura 5.4 (34). Mansfield 15.9 (99) d Shepparton Swans

14.12 (96). Mooroopna 21.13 (129) d Benalla 5.7 (37). Rochester v Kyabram. Shepparton 16.16 (132) d Shepparton United 8.3 (51). Echuca, Seymour: Bye.

■ Reserves. Euroa 13.10 (88) d Tatura 6.4 (40). Shepparton Swans 4.5 (29) d Mansfield 3.4 (22). Mooroopna 9.12 (66) d Benalla 4.5 (29). Rochester 9.10 (64) d Kyabram 4.10 (34). Shepparton 12.12 (84) d Shepparton United 3.2 (20. Echuca, Seymour: Bye.

Kyabram District

■ Seniors. Avenel 18.12 (120) d Violet Tgown 8.13 (61). Dookie United 11.13 (79) d Undera 9.5 (59). Tallygaroopna 16.13 (109) d Girgarre 11.7 (73). Lancaster 17.15 (117) d Stanhope 6.3 (39). Shepparton East 21.9 (135) d Longwood 3.5 (23). Merrigum 16.12 -108) d Rushworth 12.10 (82). MurchisonToolamba v Nagambie.

■ Reserves. Avenel 28.11 (179) d Violet Town 00.2 (2). Dookie United 23.21 (159) d Undera 4.2 (26). Tallygaroopna 17.4 (106) d Girgarre 4.6 (30). Lancaster 20.15 (135) d Stanhope 3.4 (22). Shepparton East 16.12 (108) d Longwood 12.0 (6). Merrigum 26.18 (174) d Rushworth 2.3 (15). MurchisonToolamba v Nagambie.

■ Under 18. Undera v Tallygaroopna. Lancaster 23.20 (158) d Stanhope 1.2 (8). Shepparton East 20.12 (132) d Longwood 1.6 (12). Murchison-Toolamba v Nagambie. Violet Town: Bye.

Riddell District

■ Seniors. Wallan 14.12 (96) d Diggers

Rest 10.5 (65). Riddell 7.13 (55)_ d Kyneton 3.8 (26). Romsey 10.8 (68) d Melton Centrals 10.5 (65). Macedon 9.10 (64) d Woodend Hesket 6.2 (38). Lancefield: Bye.

■ Reserves. Diggers Rest 11.5 (71) d Wallan 8.7 (55). Riddell 5.10 (40) d Kyneton 5.5 (35). Romsey 20.14 (134) d Melton Centrals 0.1 (1). Macedon 16.8 (104) d WoodendHesket 9.1 (55). Lancefield: Bye.

■ Under 19. Wallan 8.5 (53) d Diggers Rest 6.9 (45). Kyneton 8.8 (56) ed Riddell 8.6 (54). Macedon 8.11 (59) d Romsey 5.5 (35). Gisborne 11.10 (76) d Lancefield 3.3 (21).

Geelong District

■ Seniors. Belmont Lions 16.15 (111) d Corio 15.10 (100). Inverleigh 14.11 (95) d Bell Post 9.6 (60). North Geelong 10.12 (72) d Anakie 9.6 (60). East Geelong 12.16 (88) d Thomson 5.9 (39). Werribee Centrals 9.10 (64) d GW Giants 8.5 (53). Bannockburn 9.12 (66) d Winchelsea 8.9 (57).

■ Reserves. Belmont Lions 11.25 (91) d

Corio 2.3 (15). Inverleigh 22.15 (147) d Bell Post 1.2 (8). Anakie 9.13 (67) d North Geelong 8.2 (50). East Geelong 8.4 (52) Werribee Centrals 4.18 (42) d GW Giants 4.5 (29). Bannockburn 7.10 (52) de Winchelsea 6.9 (45).

Ballarat

■ Seniors. Ba;llarat 11.19 (85) d Bacchus

Marsh 10.9 (69). Darley 21.14 (140) d East Point 6.8 (44). Melton 33.13 (211) d Melton

South 3.5 (23). Sunbury 15.9 (99) d Redan 11.8 (74). Sebastopol 17.16 (118) d Lake

Wendouree 5.,8 (38). North Ballarat: Bye.

■ Reserves. Ballarat 12.17 (89) d Bacchus

Marsh 1.4 (10). East Point 19.11 (125) d

Darley 5.8 (38). Melton South v Melton. Sunbury 17.22 (124) d Redan 1.5 (11). Lake Wendouree 6.6 (42) d Sebastopol 3.7 (35).

North Ballarat: Bye.

■ Under 19. Bacchus Marsh 10.7 (67) d Ballarat 4.9 (33). East Point 11.12 (78) d darley 4.8 (32). Melton 23.14 (152) d Melton

South 2.3 (15). Sunbury 9.10 (70) d Redan 4.9 (33). Lake Wendouree 8.17 (65) d Sebastopol 3.4 (22). North Ballarat: Bye.

West Gippsland

■ Seniors. Inverloch-Kongwak 19.12 (126) d Warragul Industrials 9.2 (56). Koo Wee Rup

13.12 (90) d Dalyston 10.12 (72). Garfield

10.13 (73) d Bunyip 4.6 (30). Kilcunda Bass

Your Stars with Kerry Kulkens

ARIES: (March 21- April 20)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 1.6.5.2.

Lotto Numbers: 2.5.12.26.36.39.

It is possible that you may encounter challenges with communication during this period, which could lead to uncomfortable or embarrassing situations. To relieve stress and potentially improve your luck, it may be worth considering participating in games of chance.

TAURUS: (April 21- May 20)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 2.6.8.5.

Lotto Numbers: 1.15.24.40.22.8.

Your schedule is packed with activities, leaving you with limited time to complete everything. It is important to pace yourself and avoid getting overwhelmed, as taking breaks and resting is crucial. Despite the busy schedule, your social life is thriving and filled with enjoyable experiences.

GEMINI: (May 21- June 21)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 1.3.5.9.

Lotto Numbers: 1.15.26.34.40.33.

During this period, you have the potential to make a favourable impression on individuals of importance. However, it is advisable to avoid going overboard with your attempts at entertaining them. It would be wise to engage in a conversation with a family member and try to come to an understanding.

CANCER: (June 22- July 22)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.6.

Lotto Numbers: 1.15.26.34.4.22.

It's important to resist the urge to celebrate prematurely, as it could potentially harm your prospects of being promoted. To improve your chances, take the time to carefully evaluate and understand the problems at work. By gaining more experience in your role, you'll be better equipped to navigate any challenges that arise and position yourself for success.

LEO: (July 23- August 22)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 1.6.9.8.

Lotto Numbers: 9.8.15.45.32.6

You may have noticed that the problem that has been causing you concern is gradually resolving on its own. In fact, you have been presented with a plethora of new and exciting possibilities that could potentially change your life for the better. This could be the perfect moment for you to carefully evaluate your options and make an informed decision about which path to take.

VIRGO: (August 23- September 23)

Lucky Colour: Violet

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.3.

Lotto Numbers: 2.15.26.34.40.5

As the days unfold, you will find yourself with ample time to indulge in your favourite pastimes or explore new ones. This period will also be marked by a heightened receptivity towards your ideas, making it the perfect time to share them with those around you.

LIBRA: (September 24- October 23)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.3.

Lotto Numbers: 5.12.23.36.39.4.

As you navigate through this period, it is crucial to approach situations with diplomacy and tact. Strive to strike a balance between being pleasant and not appearing overly sweet. It's important to stay mindful of potential pressures to make decisions before you are fully prepared.

SCORPIO: (October 24- November 22)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Sunday

Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.6.

Lotto Numbers: 2.12.26.35.40.33.

As you navigate your social life, it's imperative to prioritize self-care to avoid feeling overwhelmed and drained. Introducing a new diet or exercise regimen can have a positive impact on your physical and mental wellbeing, helping you feel rejuvenated and ready to take on new challenges. Be prepared for significant developments in your career and financial situation during this promising period, where success awaits.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23- December 20)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 4.6.8.9.

Lotto Numbers: 8.15.9.6.21.33.

As you navigate through this period, you may find that the spotlight is on you. It's important to be mindful of how you present yourself during this time as others may be paying close attention. Furthermore, a new interest or activity may capture your attention and require a significant amount of your time and energy. Be sure to prioritize and manage your time effectively to make the most of this period of growth and discovery.

CAPRICORN: (December 21- January 19)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.8.

Lotto Numbers: 2.15.26.34.40.11.

During this enchanting phase, you can expect to receive a lot of admiration and interest from individuals of the opposite gender. If you find yourself drawn towards someone, it's advisable to maintain a composed demeanour and avoid any overt displays of eagerness.

AQUARIUS: (January 20- February 19)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 8.9.5.2.

Lotto Numbers: 8.15.29.34.40.11

You might just be in luck when it comes to searching for a missing item or finding great deals while shopping. Additionally, you could have the opportunity to make new connections with interesting people who can introduce you to exciting experiences and novel activities.

PISCES: (February 20- March 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 2.6.5.4.

Lotto Numbers: 5.12.24.45.40.33.

The near future may hold an exciting surprise celebration for you, possibly involving someone close to you. Additionally, you may receive news from a distant location that could spark your imagination and lead to new plans, resulting in more happiness and fulfilment in your life.

12.16 (88) d Korumburra 5.7 (37). Nar Nar Goon 15.9 (99) d Phillip Island 7.8 (50). Cora Lynn 11.6 (72) d Tooradin-Dalmore 9.9 (63). Sign

QUOKKA CLASSIC OVER 1200 METRES

■ One of the most popular races run across Australia this time of the year is the Quokka, run in Western Australia on April 20.

The early favorite is the champion Western Australia mare, Amelia’s Jewel.

She was unlucky when she missed the start and was last on settling down over the 1200 metre trip, and at the turn, but flashed home for second, beaten a short half head, behind the winner Overpass and the Victorian mare, Bella Nipotina.

Overpass is also one of the best going around and will tackle the big race again.

Trained by Bjorn Baker, he is all class and will close again.

Also the Victorian mare, Bella Nipotina, not far away last year, will have another crack at the big event.

The Victorian star, I Wish I Win, could go around here and handles all tracks and is smart in the care of leading Victorian trainer Peter Moody.

He was narrowly beaten in the Everest last year. He also won the T.J.Smith Stakes and the Golden Eagle

Due to his regular rider Luke Nolen still unavailable to ride him, leading rider James McDonald will have the ride.

One of the smart Snowden team, King of Sparta, is smart on his day having won the Expressway over 1200 metres at Randwick on February 17.

He has tackled the best many times and always puts in.

One that is v quick is the James Cummings trained mare, In Secret , a brilliant winner a couple of years ago, ridden by the ill feted young senior rider, Dean Holland.

He unfortunately was killed at a country meeting, only weeks after getting the late ride on the mare in the Newmarket. She is a good mare, and will out in again here.

Another Western Australia that goes well is Oscars Fortune, trained by WA mentor Dion Luciani, who won the Placid Ark , and has a good record for four wins and three seconds.

Another who always puts its best foot forward is the Matthew Smith trained Buenos Nochis, who continues taking on the best in the big races.

Another top sprinter having a go here is the popular galloper, Private Eye, under the top Sydney trainer Joe Pride, and always gives his all.

There a number of horses not far behind. They include Asforra, Learning to Fly, Aft Cabin, I Am Me, Mazu and Rothfire. It will be a strong field.

On her home track, Amelia’s Jewel will be hard to beat from the likes of I Wish I Win, Overpass and Private Eye. It’s a tough ask.

Across the border

■ The reaction to the mooted transfer of ownership of the Goulburn Racecourse from the club to Racing NSW has been surprisingly strong in the broader thoroughbred industry.

What started off as an infrastructure announcement has evolved into a series of stories

Ted Ryan

around the precise nature of what is being presented before members for a vote. It prompted a broader discussion about the role of clubs and indeed that of PRAs in the future management of racecourses.

Racing NSW’s CEO Peter V’landys says the strategy is about preserving racecourses for years to come with Goulburn to join five others acquired by Racing NSW over recent years.

But where does that strategy sit in the context of the potential closure and redevelopment of Rosehill?

It has become a divisive issue and independent MP Mark Latham weighed into things with a concerted attack on V’landys, Racing NSW and the Australian Turf Club under parliamentary privilege.

★

In the wagering space, 2024 is set to be a year marked by regulatory change.

The first step of this is the passage of a bill through the Northern Territory Parlament, bringing the new Racing and Wagering Act into effect from July 1.

In the Bloodstock space, the Yulong team had a Golden Day with a golden quinella in the Ranvet Stakes with two of their sires quinellaing the rich Golden Slipper.

The victory of Veight in the George Ryder was also a major milestone, as he became the first Group One winner conceived in a Yulong Stallion barn, by their foundation stallion Grunt. The numbers look good at the burgeoning influence of Yulong’s stallions.

Finally, Inglis announced its catalogue for the Chairman’s Sale in May, with 679 mares or fillies to sell including 56 stakes horses.

In wagering, tough times continue for Australia’s biggest bookmakers with Flutter confirming its Australian powerhouse Sportsbet has seen its revenue drop 7 per cent through 2023, while its market share has also slid downwards.

Meanwhile, the Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sales got underway and the first day highlighted by a record price paid for a filly, with a daughter of I Am Invincible for $400,000.

On a footnote, awell -travelled Bloodstock figure at Easter Sales recently was that man about town, Sydney’s John Singleton.

John Singleton now 82, hasn’t lost the zest racing.

Although he may have sold his farm and a lot of his broodmares this year, but in his own words “I still love racing horses and I still love gambling.”

So, he was happy to part with $700,000 for an I Am Invincible filly, out of Group One winner Lucia Valentina.

- Ted Ryan

Overpass.Racing Photos.

Jewel. Racing Photos.

TRACK HOLDS WELL FOR MILDURA PACING CUP

■ Mildura Pacing Cup day opened on a wet day in Sunraysia on Saturday April 6, with persistent rain (not heavy)from early morning right through to 5.30pm putting a dampener on the meeting.

However to the credit of the track curator, the track held up well with good times recorded all through the evening.

The feature event – the $50,000 Tasco Petroleum Mildura Pacing Cup Final over 2600 metres - attracted a handy field made up of horses which qualified the previous Tuesday over the shorter trip of 2190 metres lining up in the following order :-

Little LouieAaron Dunn

My Ultimate Billy Luke Dunne

John McLeanEllen Tormey

DangerousAbby Sanderson

Springfield Affair (Emerg)

Western TerrorBlake Jones

Front line

Earl Of Pembroke Jack Laugher

Kowalski Hanover Jackie Barker

Our Vincent Van GoghAlex Ashwood

Helluva Ewa Justice

Serg BlancoRyan Duffy

Dangerous was the heavily supported favourite following his easy victory in the heat, however there was speculation if he could lead with slick beginners Little Louie and My Ultimate Billy inside him.

That theory was thrown out the window with Dangerous easily crossing Little Louie which seemed content to take a trail running into the first turn and My Ultimate Billy angling to be three pegs only to go off stride.

Well backed Earl Of Pembroke threw away his chances when galloping shortly after the start to tail out, with John McLean angling to trail the leading pair followed by stablemate Our Vincent Van Gogh, while Kowalski Analysis was caught leading up the outside division momentarily before both Our Vincent Van Gogh and Helluva went forward to be the first two in the running line relegating Kowalski Analysis to three back being followed by Western Sonador and Serge Blanco at the rear. Earl Of Pembroke after the early mistake caught the field to be last along the markers.

Serge Blanco was first to angle three wide racing for the bell, with Kowalski Analysis coming out ahead of him before struggling and dropping out inconveniencing Serg Blanco.

Kicking away at the straight entrance with race safely in his keeping, Dangerous raced by the Birchip boys registered a 4.2 metre margin in advance of a courageous Helluva, with Little Louie after angling three wide on turning third 2.6 metres back. John McLean used inside runs for fourth 1.8 metres back 3.7 metres clear of Serge Blanco which ran on best when clear.

In quarters of 30.1, 30.8, 28.1 and 29.4 after a lead time of 72.1 seconds, Dangerous returned a mile rate of 1-57.9 - 1.2 seconds outside the track record of 1-56.7 set by Phoenix Prince in 2022.

It was Shane Sanderson’s second Mildura Cup after winning last year with Sahara Tiger driven by son Ryan who landed the 2190 metre J & A Mazzetti Pace on the night.

The $20,000 Club Merbein Mildura Trotters Cup over 2600 metres supplemented the meeting, with Bolinda trainer Brent Lilley’s 6Y0 Muscle Mass-U Dream gelding Kyvalley Heist successful in a rate of 2-07.7.

Driven by 21 year old deep South Islander Tristan Larsen now based at the Lilley stable., Kyvalley Heist raced by Jim Connelly’s KPC Racing one of only two front markers was rated to perfection out in front and never looked like losing, greeting the judge 5.8 metres clear of a death-seating Keayang Xena (20m) and Hatchback (20m) who was a head away. Hot favourite Mercenary (30m) had no luck whatsoever finishing fourth 16.3 metres back after making an early three wide unsuccessful forward move and easing back to the tail.

COMMENT

It is so disappointing that Mildura Cup week has dropped in popularity. For many years the Mildura Club arranged many social functions such as a River Boat Calcutta Cruise, Golf Day, Bowls Competition and a function at the Workers – all have since faded away.

Harness Racing

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker

Eased away

■ Horsham commenced the week on Monday April 8 and Great Western’s Peter Manning snared a double – Franco Nelson-Miss Rivkah filly Moonie River taking the West Side Trivia Tue 34/4 2Y0 Pace over 1700 metres and 7Y0 Peak-Lazy Toes mare Onestep Ahead the 2200 metre Woodlands Stud NZ Trotters Handicap. Moonie River bred and raced by Queensland’s Aldons family driven by Jason Ainsworth enjoyed a sweet passage from the pole on the back of last start Charlton winner Insider Trading was most impressive after easing away from the markers in the straight to record a 2.1 metre victory over the pacemaker in a mile rate of 2-03.4.

Stablemate Blame Game after racing exposed for the last lap was third 17.7 metres away. Onestep Ahead driven by Kerryn for the Adelaide based Cormack family made a one act affair of her race.

Starting outside the front line, Onestep Ahead eased away from a one/one trip in the last lap and sprinting brilliantly dashed to the lead prior to the home turn, scoring by a huge 34 metre margin in advance of the leader Wistful Lady returning a mile rate of 2-11.2. Earl Patrick (barrier three) after racing uncovered battled on gamely for third a head back.

■ Charlton’s John Tormey combined with daughter Ellen to land the 1089 3WM The Shirt Front Sat @ 8-00am Maiden Pace over 1700 metres with Hesaa Lister, a 3Y0 gelded son of Vincent and Ima A Lister in 2-00.4.

Despite racing in the open from gate five, Hesaa Lister was too strong for his rivals, reaching the post 1.5 metres in advance of first starter Keayang Moscato (one/one – three wide home turn) from the extreme draw. Dancin With Lush held third a half neck away after leading.

■ The 1700 metre Worlds Best Hoof Oil Maiden Pace saw Heywood trainer Bec East successful with Sweet Lou-Splash Out filly We Favour Rosie.

Driven by Michjael Bellman, We Favour Rosie settled one/one from the extreme draw as Keayang Galliano went forward from inside the second line to cross Notyouraveragejoe shortly after the start.

Going forward three wide in the last lap to join the leader on the final bend, We Favour Rosie recorded a fine 3.6 metre victory over the pacemaker in 1-59.3. Remmington (gate six) after galloping away made up many yards to settle one/two before going forward three wide in the last lap to finish third 4.4 metres back.

■ Ecklin South trainer Paddy Lee combined with cousin Glen Craven aboard 5Y0 Lincoln Royal-Verdant gelding Royal Division to capture The Weekly Advertiser Pace over 2200 metres.

Raced by Terang’s Lenehan family, Royal Division led all of the way from gate three, accounting for Matty Horsnell’s Silver Mystique which trailed, with Jilliby Adore (one/one) third for Marg Lee to give Terang the trifecta. The margins 8.8 by 5.7 metres in a mile rate of 206.2.

■ Unfortunately the rest of the program was abandoned following heavy rain making the track unsuitable for racing.

Tuesday events

■ Mildura was again the venue for Tuesday’s meeting and Bendigo based Liam Older who has been making regular visits to Mildura landed a double during the evening, taking the Euston Club Pace aboard local trainer Brendan Tune’s 6Y0 Sportswriter-Shadow Flag gelding Beartastic Writer and The Gateway Pace Final for Axedale trainer Mick Carbone with 6Y0 Shadow Play-Western Art mare Malava Lass. Beartastic Writer led throughout from gate three to account for You Little Terror (three pegs from inside the second line) which had eased wide on turning in a mile rate of 2-00.6. Polemarker Highview Hammer which trailed the winner was third. The margins a half neck by a half head in a thrilling finish.

■ Kilmore’s Corey Bell did the same, driving Broken Hill trainer Darren McInnes’ Mach Three-All Mystique 8Y0 gelding Machstique to an all the way victory in the 2190 metre McDonalds Irymple and Mildura Pace and his own 4Y0 Art Major-Jets Girl gelding Major Bert in the Well Done Cup Week Workers Pace over 1790 metres, scoring by 6.3 metres from Mustang Max which trailed from inside the second line, with White Star Sammy a neck back third out wide after a three pegs trip. The mile rate 204.2.

Major Bert was tough after sitting parked from gate four outside Places You Don’t (gate three) to outstay his rivals, accounting for the pacemaker by a neck. Miss Poppys Friend (one/one from outside the front line) was third 1.2 metres away. The mile rate 2-00.4.

Double Day

■ Double day Wednesday with Charlton racing in the afternoon respecting the indigenous people with the annual Djaara Cup meeting and Bendigo at night with the Nutrien juveniles on show.

At Charlton, Derrinal trainer Glenn Bull provided the quinella in the Wimmera Mallee Pace over 1609 metres when 6Y0 Dawn Ofa New Day-Starong Star gelding Go George Go led throughout from gate six to prevail by 8.4 metres from stablemate Stellar Queen which trailed in a rate of 1-59. El Awoman came from well back out wide for third 1.9 metres away. The winner was driven by neighbour Sean O/Sullivan who has been going great guns of late.

■ A decent size plunge was landed in the Swift Freight Trotters Handicap over 2100 metres by Girgarre part-owner/trainer Ken Covington’s 7Y0 Down Under Muscles-Madiskita mare Montana Muscle.

Backed in from the double figure morning line to run at $3.30, Montana Muscle driven by Gary Pekin (four pegs from barrier) eased to be outside the leader Midnight Avenger (gate four) racing for the bell and was too tough at the finish, defeating the leader by a half neck, with Charlie Walker (five pegs – one/one last lap) running his usual honest race for third 1.2 metres away. The mile rate 2-06.1.

■ Allendale owner/trainer Adam Stephens added another winner to the list when 7Y0 Bettors Delight-Lombo Madam Lashe gelding Silver Domino driven by Jordan Leedham scored in the 1609 metre Gitjawil Matom (Chocolate Lily) Pace in 2-01.3.

Going forward three wide from gate four to park outside the leader Straight Up (gate two) which had crossed polemarker Night Safari, Silver Domino raced clear halfway up the running to greet the judge by 6.6 metres from The Regulator which followed him throughout, with Lady Lagertha third a half neck away off a three wide trail last lap from well back.

■ Stawell’s Jason Ainsworth is on a roll at present and 9Y0 Courage Under Fire-Bay Torrent gelding Flaming Lucky was successful in the Murna (Yam Daisy) Pace over 1609 metres. Trained and driven by Jason for partner Natasha Raven, Flaming Lucky at start 154 led throughout from the pole to register a 6.5 metre margin ahead of Salsboy which trailed from inside the second line. Friends (one/one) was third from gate two 5.8 metres away. The mile rate 1-59.1. It was Flaming Luck’s 11th victory.

■ At Bendigo some outstanding performances were produced especially by fillies Rainbow

Sulky Snippets Sulky Snippets

This Week

■ Wednesday – Hamilton/Shepparton, Thursday – Swan Hill, Friday – Ballarat, Saturday – Melton, Sunday – Warragul (Cup), Monday – Maryborough, Tuesday –Shepparton.

Jester (2Y0 C and G) and Keayang Tweetybird (3Y0 F) in the all trotting Nutrien Series program. Goulburn trainer/driver Dennis Day rarely makes a visit to Victoria but did so with Rainbow Jester, a daughter of Majestic Son and Miss Maori Rainbow.

Making her second race appearance following a victory at Menangle on April 2, Rainbow Jester galloped away from the pole shortly after the start to tail out not helping her chances as first starter Voldagha led from gate three.

Gradually making ground to be one/one at the bell, Rainbow Jester was assisted when the leader galloped in the back straight on the final occasion allowing Aldebaran Zane to lead into the final bend with Rainbow Jester chasing valiantly.

Using the sprint lane, Rainbow Jester finished best to prevail by 2.3 metres over Aldebaran Zane, with Voldagha getting going again for third albeit 51 metres away. The mile rate 2-08.4.

■ Keayang Tweetybird was most impressive in her heat. Trained by Marg Lee and driven by son Jason, Keayang Tweetybird (galloped away from gate six giving away a tidy start with polemarker Maoris Mac leading on debut.

Well supported The Priestess also galloped away from gate two to follow Keayang Tweetybird when they both regained their gaits but a long way off the leader.

Moving to be four pegs racing for the bell, Keayang Tweetybird came away from the inside to give chase in the back straight with The Priestess latching to her back.

Showing a good turn of speed prior to the home turn to join the leader, Keayang Tweetybird with no puddydat in sight, ran home determinedly to gain the day by 2 metres over Maoris Mac who wouldn’t give in without a fight, with The Priestess third 4.8 metres back. The mile rate 2-05.8.

■ Nathan Jack was victorious with undefeated Volstead-Cyclone Jetta gelding Derek The Jet in the 3Y0 heat for C&G. Given time to balance from inside the second line, Derek The Jet was off and running at the bell to assume control for the last lap and couldn’t be caught, reaching the wire 2 metres in advance of NSW visitor Valtino which led from gate five. Polemarker Val Thorens used the sprint lane from three pegs for third a half head away. The mile rate 2-03.8.

■ Cardigan trainer Anton Golino’s first starter Enchauffour had scored in the first of the 2Y0 C&G with Nathan Jack in the sulky.

Beginning safely from the pole to trail the leader Aldebaran Denbay (gate three), Enchauffour had little trouble moving around him stretching out beautifully to account for Kyvalley Jagger (six pegs after a bad beginning from outside the front line) which ran home strongly. NSW hope Sioux Warrior after a bad beginning from gate four, rattled home along the sprint lane from seven pegs to be third a neck away. The mile rate 2-10.3.

■ Kiwi filly We Can Have It All (Volstead-Duchess Ella) filly We Can Have It All trained by Jayne Davies appears to be something special when leading throughout from the pole with Chris Alford aboard in the 2nd 3Y0 Fillies Heat. With Chris Alford in the sulky, We Can Have It All ambled around at her leisure, coasting to the wire 12.2 metres in advance of Preferred Love (five pegs – one/two at bell) which flashed home along the sprint lane. Keayang Gypsy was third a neck away after racing exposed at the bell. The mile rate 2-03.1. The other winner being Keayang Kurki for Marg Lee and Jason Lee in the 2Y0 Fillies Prelude.

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