The Local Paper. Regional Edition. Wed., July 24, 2024

The Local Paper

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24, 2024

GOVT BLAMES RAINFALL FOR ROADS

Local Briefs

OE this Saturday

■ Premier Division. Part Round 14. Saturday, July 27. Monbulk v Olinda Ferny Creek. Upwey Tecoma v Berwick Springs. Gembrook Cockatoo v Mt Evelyn.

■ Division 1. Round 14. Saturday, July 27. Healesville v Yarra Glen. Seville v Yarra Junction. Belgrave v Alexandra. Yea v Warburton Millgrove. Powelltown: Bye.

Goulburn Murray

■ Goulburn Murray Junior League. Round 13. Sunday, July 28. Tabilk v Broadford. Wandong v Alexandra. Seymour: Bye. Yea: Bye.

● ● ● ● Two pages of major league scoreboards inside this edition of The Local Paper.

■ The Allan Labor Government is treating local residents like fools by constantly blaming the deteriorating condition of our roads on unprecedented rainfall, says Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish.

Ms McLeish says that she knows locals in Nillumbik, Mansfield, Murrindindi, the Yarra Ranges, and beyond, are sick and tired of the same old excuses and quick fixes that Labor fall back on.

“Our roads are crumbling due to funding cuts and neglect, not only the rain,” said Ms McLeish.

“I regularly alert the Minister to potholes and dodgy road surfaces across the electorate.

“Every time I receive the same response that we have experienced unprecedented rainfall. This is a furphy. The real issue is a lack of road funding.”

Figures provided to the Opposition show that the money spent on resurfacing and resealing contracts for our roads in the 2023-24 financial year was just 18 per cent of the previous year, dropping from $201.4 million to just $37.6 million across the state.

“This is an enormous drop. Bureau of Meteorology rainfall charts prove that over the past 50 years there is no clear trend of increased rainfall that would explain such a dramatic reduction in the condition of our roads.

“Our roads have been in a dodgy condition for years, not only during winter. Surely Labor knows filling potholes with gravel as a quick fix will only last so long. The gravel is soon kicked up, causing damage to windshields or ricocheting at oncoming traffic.

“There has been a massive reduction in funding for repairs just when we need it the most. Our roads will only get worse.

“Labor can’t manage money and Victorians are paying the price,” Ms McLeish said.

■ Division 1. No matches on Saturday, July 27. Round 15 is on Saturday, August 3. Bundoora v West Preston-Lakeside. Eltham v Banyule. Heidelberg v Greensborough. Montmorency v North Heidelberg. Macleod v Hurstbridge.

■ Division 2. Round 15. Saturday, July 27. Laurimar v Northcote Park. Watsonia v Diamond Creek. St Mary’s v South Morang. Panton Hill v Whittlesea. Lower Plenty v Thomastown.

■ Division 3. Rouund 16. Saturday, July 27. Mernda v Kilmore. Heidelberg West v Epping. Lalor v Old Paradians. Reservoir v Fitzroy Stars. Ivanhoe v Kinglake. Old Eltham Collegians: Bye.

Paths, Trails Plan

■ A 10-year Draft Paths and Trails Plan is being developed to assist Yarra Ranges Council in establishing and maintaining a high-quality network of paths and trails. The Council says it has listened to the community in formulating a list of upgrades to existing trails, safer road crossings and 32 priority new trails (or missing links between trails) and is seeking feedback from community on whether there are any missing gaps that Council should be including in the plan. Priority projects will be delivered as funding becomes available from Federal, State and Council, said a Shire representative in a statement.

● ● Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish stands beside a typical roadway pothole.

? An Open Community Meeting for Murrindindi Shire Council is to be held at Taggerty Hall at 5pm on Wednesday, July 31.

✔A new City of Whittlesea website was due to be switched on yesterday (tues., July 23) as this issue of The Local Paper went to press.”The new site will make it easier for you to find the information you are looking for through a cleaner new design and improved search functionality,” said a Council representative. “A new customer portal will be coming this August. The customer portal means that more transactions will be able to be completed online, making it more convenient for you to interact with us at a time and in a way that suits you.”

?Mitchell Shire Council has successfully prosecuted a significant case of illegal tree removal in Hidden Valley, Wallan. The case involved the removal of 88 native trees at 61-65 Eastern Ridge, without the required planning permit. The matter was heard at Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court on July 8. Mitchell Shire Council lodged charges against the owner of the land Mamuna Investment Group Pty Ltd, and its sole director, Ahmad Hashmi. The company was fined $40,000, and Ahmad Hashmi was fined $30,000, with additional costs amounting to $9546.50.

● ● Lily D’Ambrosio, State Minister

?Local political observers are wondering if a decision last week by Mill Park MLA Lily D’Ambrosio to approve a quarry at Lang Lang, might be a signal that the nod is about to be given to the controversial proposal for a quarry at Wallan-Beveridge. Ms D’Ambrosio used these words to justify her Lang Lang decision: “We’re making sure Victoria’s booming quarry sector can keep delivering the raw materials needed to build the projects we need – from affordable housing to new hospitals and renewable energy projects.”

■ Improvements worth $150,000 at the Yea Saleyards are likely to be approved at the Murrindindi Council meeting tonight (Wed., July 24) at Alexandra.

it is proposed to construct six larger capacity holding pens (not ‘selling pens’) to safely manage the sorting and grouping of larger numbers of cattle into single batches at a sale.

“Large capacity holding pens will allow large consignments of cattle to be accommodated safely and for a longer period, both pre and postsale, and provide the ability for cattle to be fed, watered and held more comfortably prior to being despatched,” says a report to be considered by Councillors.

“The addition of large capacity holding pens will not increase the total number of cattle sold at the yards.

“It is proposed to construct the holding pens in the existing car park along the western end of the facility.

“This location is in close proximity to truck loading ramps and away from the selling areas.

“The existing carpark will be moved into a grassed area opposite the saleyards, in the truck parking area.

“With the installation of holding pens in the existing car park, further works may also be required but this can be done at a later stage:

■ Gravel to new car parking area - This area is currently grassed, and the parking in this area will only become an issue, should we have a wet summer period.

■ Drainage works to B-Double ramps - The existing drainage at the front of the B-Double ramps is accommodating ‘normal’ rain events, however, out of the ordinary rainfall has caused runoff damage to gravel surfaces to the north of the ramp area.

“With approximately $500,000 available in the Yea Saleyards Reserve, there are sufficient funds to meet the estimated construction costs of $150k, without requiring the allocation of funds derived from ratepayers,” says the report.

The report said: “The Yea Saleyards Committee has seen a recent change in buying and selling patterns at the Saleyards, with a move from smaller numbers of cattle being purchased by multiple vendors to large numbers of cattle being purchased by single vendors.

“With the closure of the Pakenham Saleyards, the Yea Saleyards is also operating at, or near full capacity.

“The increasing trend of buyers aggregating smaller cattle lots into single larger batches for transportation presents challenges in managing safe operations at the yards, with a greater potential for OH&S and animal welfare risks arising.”

The report saiud considerations at the Saleyards included:

■ Mix of cattle and pedestrians in laneways.

■ Safety for livestock transport operators drafting cattle in yards around tight laneways.

■ Inspection of cattle in laneways prior to being loaded onto transport.

■ Accommodation of a large numbers of cattle consignments in small yards.

■ Feeding large consignments pre and postsale in selling pens and causing contamination.

‘Added pressure’

■ With the recent closure and subsequent sale of the Pakenham Saleyards , there is added pressure on surrounding saleyards to pick up the void of selling approximately 100,000 head of cattle per annum. The closure was announced in December 2023 and the Yea Saleyards experienced increased throughput starting in February 2024, which has been ongoing. Store sales from February to June were either at capacity or near capacity and similar for the two special sales held in May. Livestock agents have booked a further three additional special sales.

Month off for CEO

■ Livia Bonazzi, Murrindindi Shire CEO, is currently on leave and will return on Monday, August 20. During her absence, Michael Chesworth will be the Acting CEO.

Yea Saleyards

Focus on M’dindi kindergartens

■ The State Government has already announced investment into the provision of additional kindergarten capacity in Yea and Alexandra.

According to a report due to be tabled at the Murrindindi Council meeting tonight (Wed.) the new kindergarten facility in Yea is scheduled to open for the 2025 school year and is being delivered by the Victorian School Building Authority

An initial review of Early Education Infrastructure and Childcare highlighted capacity issues for both Kindergarten and Childcare services in Murrindindi, says the report.

“The subsequent roll out of the State Government’s Best Start Best Life reforms, to enhance pre prep kindergarten from 15 to 30 hours for four-year-olds, facilitated Council’s commitment to expanding the strategic investigation into how best to support the Murrindindi community and service providers to meet current and future service demands for Murrindindi families and children,” says the report.

40 YEARS SERVICE TO MURRINDINDI, YARRA RANGES WHITTLESEA AND MITCHELL

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 Shire widen the scope to take in parts of the Alexandra, Broadford, Eltham, Whittlesea and Yea municipalities.

The reconstruction and recovery from the 2009 ‘Black Saturday’ fires again broadened the meaning of ‘local’.

By the 1990s, Ash Long could see that the concept of a paid-circulation local newspaper was already outdated.

In the early 2000s, The Local Paper and its progenitors were already developing an online presence, as well as growing the free printed editions.

Tom

and

Local

is still the largest local newspaper, with editions covering Mansfield, Mitchell Murrindindi, Nillumbik (rural), part of Strathbogie, Whittlesea (rural) and Yarra Ranges. Decades on, Ash Long and his team remain committed to providing best possible service to readers and clients.

Dignam

Ash Long, 1984. Today, The

Paper

association with the Established September 14, 1969

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

ABOUT US

Incorporating the traditions of the Evelyn Observer (Est. 1873), Seymour Express (Est. 1872), Yea Advertiser (Est. 1995), Yarra Valley Advertiser (Est. 1995), Whittlesea Advertiser (Est. 1995).

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

• Regional/’Dindi Local’ Edition: Murrindindi, Mansfield, Strathbogie, rural sections of Nillumbik and Whittlesea

• ‘Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express’ Edition: Yarra Ranges Shire

• Mitchell Shire Edition: Mitchell Shire

CONTACT US

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

Mail: PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095

Web: www.LocalPaper.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

www.LocalMedia.com.au

E-Mail: Editor@LocalPaper.com.au

Editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au

Editor@LocalMedia.com.au

Matt Bissett-Johnson, Cartoonist

Editor: Ash Long

Peter Kemp, Art Rob Foenander, Music

Features Editor: Peter Mac

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

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

Logistics: Peter Dodd, Tim Granvillani, Erica Koldinsky

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

Ash on Wednesday Address family violence

■ Northern Victoria MLC Wendy Lovell wants to see funding extended to address family violence.

“The action that I seek is that the Premier extend the recently announced saturation model family violence prevention program that will run in Ballarat to include areas in northern Victoria where the incidence of serious family violence is higher than in Ballarat,” Ms Lovell told the Legislative Council.

“The tragic loss of women’s lives this year is a painful reminder of the urgent need for Victoria to do more to address family violence.

“On May 31 this year Premier Jacinta Allan announced that Ballarat would be home to a four-year saturation model program for preventing family violence that will draw on worldleading social research to strengthen referral pathways, boost support services, combat toxic attitudes and run initiatives to test new prevention approaches.

“This approach is being rolled out in Ballarat due to three recent high-profile and tragic deaths of women, and I hope that the pilot program can deliver insights that are ready to be applied across Victoria and Australia in combating the causes of family violence and providing help and support when the worst happens.

“However, there are areas of Victoria missing out on this program where the rate of serious violence is much higher, and they deserve the same in-

Long Shots

terventions and support as Ballarat . Tragic deaths that make the newspaper headlines bring us together in mourning and galvanise our will to take action against this epidemic, but behind the headlines is the invisible tragedy of families who suffer beatings and intense violence, which never makes the news.

“If you look at the data on family violence that involves serious assaults, Crime Statistics Agency data for 2023 shows that the 26 local government areas with the highest rates of serious assaults are all rural and regional areas.

“Greater Shepparton sadly tops the list, with a rate of 379 serious assaults per hundred thousand people, followed by Swan Hill with a rate of 293.

“Half of the 26 LGAs with the highest rates of serious assault are in northern Victoria, and those 13 all recorded a higher rate of serious assault offences than Ballarat.

“Greater Shepparton’s rate of 379 is more than three times that of Ballarat, which has a rate of 111 family violence serious assaults per hundred thousand people.

“Extending the family violence prevention program to additional areas that have the highest serious assault rates would enable worldleading prevention initiatives to target those areas with the worst levels of violence and the greatest need for help. Regional cities and towns face a particular challenge in preventing family violence,” Ms Lovell said

Local Photo Flashback

■ Strathbogie Shire Council is set to commence the construction of a new state-ofthe-art truck wash at the Euroa Saleyards this month.

This development follows a thorough search for a suitable tenderer over the past few years.

The project, valued at $642,000, was awarded at the May meeting to Miepol Pty Ltd, a company based in Geelong

The Council undertook four competitive tenders for the truck wash project, refining the design each time to align with the approved Budget.

Shire Administrator Peter Stephenson acknowledged the concerted efforts of council officers and the Euroa Saleyard Committee in making this double bay truck wash a reality.

“This truck wash will have so many benefits for our truck owners, so I am pleased to see it under construction,” said Mr Stephenson.

The new truck wash will feature a drivethrough double bay, catering to B-double trucks. This design is expected to expedite the washing process significantly, eliminating the need for drivers to reverse their long trucks in and out, as required by the old facility.

“The improved truck wash addresses modern necessities and is anticipated to benefit the stock carrying community and local truck owners,” said a Council representative.

“It is also expected to attract more livestock carriers to Euroa , who need to wash down their trucks to meet biodiversity requirements.

“The project received a significant financial boost with $165,000 allocated by the Council, supported by funding from the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Program in 2020.

“This new facility is set to enhance operational efficiency and environmental compliance, contributing positively to the local agricultural infrastructure and community.”

Popular library

■ A new library located at the Mernda Town Centre is proving popular with locals with close to 30,000 visitors through the door in the first few months, says Whittlesea City Council.

The library, located at the shopping centre and next to Mernda Station, has welcomed 1600 new members with more than 33,000 items borrowed since its opening on January 22. City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson, who formally opened the library at an event on July 18, shared her thoughts on the importance of libraries.

“Libraries play a crucial role in promoting literacy, education and they provide safe, comfortable, and inclusive spaces for our community. They also offer an opportunity for a free activity in these times of cost-ofliving pressures,” Ms Wilson said.

She said the location was ideal, enabling people to visit the library while they were already out and about doing their shopping, attending medical appointments or catching public transport.

“Libraries serve as the cornerstone of a thriving community, benefiting people of all ages and cultural backgrounds. It’s heartwarming to see how the community has embraced the Mernda Library.”

The Mernda Library is an addition to the existing library services in the City of Whittlesea, which include branches in Lalor, Mill Park, Thomastown, and Whittlesea, as well as a library hub at Galada Community Centre in Epping

Cheryl Threadgold, Local Theatre

Julie Houghton, The Arts Kevin Trask, Entertainment

Rourke, Film

Ted Ryan, Horse Racing Len Baker, Harness Racing

Regional Round-Up

Gooleys Bridge

■ Gooleys Bridge in Jamieson is looking new after barrier replacement works have offered a facelift in addition to a safety improvement.

Old wooden guardrails on the bridge had deteriorated over many years and were no longer compliant with current safety standards, which have been updated since they were installed.

New steel barriers and their design was subject to a thorough community consultation process with the Jamieson Community Group

Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said he was pleased to see the project having been completed with input from the community.

“Council is responsible for millions of dollars’ worth of infrastructure. It’s our responsibility to maintain all of Council’s assets and ensure they are safe, usable and meet the needs of our community,” Cr Rabie said.

“We make every decision about them with the ratepayer’s dollar front of mind. This means making decisions that are smart for this budget while considering the long-term costs of any upgrades.

“The upgrades to Gooley’s Bridge have been done with careful consideration of the character of the bridge and its scenic location. The guard rails are durable so will put Council in the best position in terms of the cost of ongoing maintenance. This was a great example of how we work in partnership with the community to achieve great outcomes,” said Cr Rabie

Sports Strategy

■ Strathbogie Shire Council is calling on residents to help shape a comprehensive new Sports Strategy to guide future maintenance, renewal and development of infrastructure for organised community sport.

The Sports Strategy will focus on formal community sport participation and the necessary infrastructure by identifying future needs and upgrades.

“To help shape the strategy, Council wants to know what sports and activities community members take part in, what motivates people to get involved and what makes it easy or hard to engage in these activities such as distance to travel and the quality of facilities,” said a Strathbogie Shire representative.

Strathbogie Shire Council Administrator Peter Stephenson emphasised the importance of this strategy in guiding the maintenance and renewal of existing sporting and recreational facilities.

“Council recognises the crucial role that sport, recreation and physical activity have in building vibrant, liveable communities and promoting health and wellbeing,” Mr Stephenson said.

“Having a plan for future needs is important to help guide future investment and priorities. The strategy also aligns with the Council Plan 2021-25 Strategic Focus on strong, healthy, and safe communities.

“Council is seeking critical insights into how we can improve our existing infrastructure and develop new facilities that meet the needs of our diverse community, and their structured sporting activities.

“I encourage residents to share their knowledge and have their say on our Share Strathbogie site,” he said.

The survey closes at 5pm, Friday, August 9.

Dogs in parks

■ Yarra Ranges Council is seeking feedback from dog owners and park users for the development of a 10-year People and Dogs in Parks Plan, which will guide future planning for dog owners and dogs in public open space.

The plan would be a first for the Council, which will identify a standardised approach to how it plans and provides for infrastructure for dog off-leash areas.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Sophie Todorov, said that the Council played a key role in the planning and provision of dog off-leash areas for the community.

Local people have until Thursday, August 8, to provide feedback.

$270,000 CEO has ‘no debt’

■ Murrindindi Shire Council CEO Livia Bonazzi had no personal debt, no shares, and received no gifts, according to her Biannual Interest Returns form, filed this year.

Ms Bonazzi, employed at more than $270,000 a year, declared that she had “ownership” of her primary residence.

Ms Bonazzi stated that she was a Board Director of Tourism North East.

Murrindindi Council’s Director Assets and Development, Caroline Lintott, noted that she had paid employment with the City of Whittlesea.

Ms Lintott registered that she was a “joint owner” in a primary residence and a farming interest.

Director Corporate and Shared Services, Michael Chesworth, declared that his company Maikworth Pty Ltd had cash, shares, interest bearing depsouts, and was trustee of a self-managed Superannuation Fund.

He noted that he was involved in Mikama Farm, involved in farm produce and horse riding instruction. He listed himself as “part owner” of residence and hobby farm.

Natalie Stewart, Manager Development Services, declared her Board Membership of St Mary’s Primary School, Alexandra, and noted that her partner is a one-third owner-operator of Alexandra Bricklaying and Concreting.

Stuart Russell, Manager Operations and Maintenance, filed ‘nil’ to all fields of the Interest Returns Register, indicating no corporate directorships, no leadership roles in unincorporated associations, no partnerships or joint ventures, no trusts, no other paid employment, no consultancies, contracts or agencies, no ownership of land, no shares or beneficial ownership of any companies, no solely or jointly owned companies, no personal debt, and no gifts received.

Stuart Coller, Manager Community Wellbeing, recorded that he has an association with The S. Coller Trust, which is used for financial planning purposes, in the holding of real estate. He has ownership or beneficial interest in a home/personal residence.

Amanda Vogt, Manager Governance and Risk, indicated interest in her residence.

Anna Cullen, Manager Customer Experience, registered her paid membership of the Australian Labor Party - Victorian Branch, which her form describes as a “democratic, socialist political party”.

Andrew Paton, Director Community and Development, declared a directorship of Compaspe (sic) Port Enterprise, and another Board membership of the Gather My Crew nonproft organisation. He noted personal debt to HSBC.

Peter Bain, Manager Sustainability and Assets, registered that he had debt with Westpac.

Murrindindi Shire Councillors noted their personal interest in biannual returns registered as at March 31.

Cr John Walsh noted that he ran a family farm, used the Wallbiz Superannuation Fund in association with his superannuation savings,m and was joint owner with his wife of a home and farm. He has a special purpose company, Wallbiz Pty Ltd, for SMS. Cr Walsh noted that he was Treasurer of Central Ranges Local Learning Network.

Cr Karine Haslam registered that she is President of Eildon Events Inc, that she holds family membership of UGFM radio, and that she has mixed investments through the self-managed Haslam Superannuation Fund. She has beneficial interest in a “principle place of residence” (sic).

Cr Sue Carpenter declared her Board membership at the Rotary Club of Yea, that she was a Parish Councillor and Warden at the Anglican Parish of Yea, and that she had ownership or beneficial interest in her private residence.

Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher noted that he is a Director of Alexandra Events Corporation Ltd, and that he is a Director of the Hill Valley Family Trust trading as Hill Valley Pastoral Company Pty Ltd, involved in the production of grass-fed beef cattle. He said that he is employed by Hardcat Pty Ltd, and that he had no debt.

Cr Gallagher recorded that he is a non-executive Committee member of the Alexandra District Horse and Pony Club, that he has a Committee member of the Alexandra Truck, Ute and Rod Show and Alexandra Pro Rideo through his membership with Alexandra Events Corporation, and that he has affiliations with the Alexandra RSL Sub-Branch, Embassy of Ideas Inc., Alexandra Football Netball Club and Acheron Rural Fire Brigade.

Cr Ilona Gerenscersaid that she was owner/ occupier of a residential property, and had personal debt with the ANZ Banking Group.

Cr Eric Lording said that he was Weekend Sales Manager of Yenckens Hardware, and that he was CEO/Director of Lorco Holdings (an inactive company), and that his unincoporated association leadership roles included his Council-appointed committee membership of the Flowerdale Community House, and his work as an instructor and advisor with the Department of Justice relating to the “defense of Australia ” (sic). Cr Lording noted his involvement with the Yea Cemetery Trust. He said he had a family home and 49 acres of farmland, and had personal debt with Westpac.

Cr Sandice McAulay noted that she was Chair Person of the Taggerty Community Progress Group, and Interim President of the Taggerty Hall Committee which maintains the hall for DEECA. Cr McAulay said that she was involved in a partnership/joint venture with the Taggerty General Store and Licensed Post Office, noting that she drew no wages. With her husband, she owns a residence.

Policy on roads

■ A new policy has been introduced to assist Nillumbik Council in determining which unsealed roads will be prioritised for sealing in the Shire

A second revised policy outlines the process for implementing resident-funded special charge schemes to seal local roads.

“Of the 790km of Council-managed roads in the Shire, more than 300km are unsealed, and Council receives many requests to upgrade them,” said a Nillumbik Shire representative.

At its June meeting, Nillumbik Council adopted two policies to assist in undertaking road sealing in a strategic, consistent, transparent and equitable way:

■ The Unsealed Roads Improvement Prioritisation Policy

■ The Special Rate and Special Charge Policy and Guidelines.

The Unsealed Roads Improvement Policy outlines the process for how an unsealed road will be assessed and prioritised to be included as part of Council’s official road sealing program.

Nillumbik Mayor Ben Ramcharan welcomed the new policy, describing it as fair, transparent and open, ensuring improvements were based on need.

“I think this is a huge improvement to the way we make decisions about the sealing of roads, transparently and openly as a council because it makes the criteria very clear,” Cr Ramcharan said.

Assessment criteria have been developed based on five key areas:

■ Road function – strategic purpose in road network and traffic

■ Community safety – risks, crash history and emergency management

■ Community benefit – value to community, access to community facilities

■ Environment and economy – significant improvements to environment and local businesses

■ Financial implications – costs, external funding, maintenance cost savings

Council officers will now assess all the Shire’s unsealed roads based on these criteria to determine an Unsealed Road Improvement Priority List. This list will be made publicly available on January 1, 2025 and will be reviewed every four years.

The proposed roads to be sealed each year will be presented to Council for approval as part of the annual budget process.

The Special Rate and Special Charge Policy and Guidelines set the process for considering and implementing a Special Charge Scheme for property owners to seal and upgrade local access roads, as well as a broader range of works and services.

A Special Charge Scheme can be applied to property owners who will receive a special benefit from infrastructure improvements such as road sealing. Benefits can include improvements to access or safety, or physical and environmental amenity.

Under the policy, the minimum level of support for a scheme to progress is 60 per cent of ratable properties, and Nillumbik Council cannot declare a scheme if it receives objections from more than 50 per cent.

Mill Park future

■ The City of Whittlesea is inviting the community to have their say on the draft Mill Park Place Framework

The draft framework, which was endorsed to go out to the community for feedback at the Council meeting last week (Tues., July 16), is a collaborative vision that aims to shape the future of Mill Park

“Developed with input from a dedicated community reference group, the draft framework outlines a plan to enhance Mill Park's streets, public spaces, community precincts, infrastructure, and transport over time,” said a Council representative.

“The draft Mill Park Place Framework focuses on six key projects in the short-term including safer streets to walk or bike to school, enhanced community hubs, revitalising key destinations, reimagining transmission easements, upgrading parks and increasing walkability through future development.”

Livia Bonazzi, Murrindindi CEO

● Cr Damian Gallagher, Mayor

(Back load Specialist. Conditions apply)

24 HOURS7 DAYS A WEEK

(Scrap bin available)

Where

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

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Corner Hotel.

65 Grant St.

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

■ ■ WATTLE GLEN. Peppers

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

Court Lists

Seymour Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings

Friday, July 26

Seniors’ grants

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

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■ ALEXANDRA. Foodworks. 102 Grant St.

■

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

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

■ WESBURN. Hotel. 2882 Warburton Hwy.

■ WONGA PARK. IGA Xpress.

70 Jumping Creek Rd.

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■ ALEXANDRA. Mount Pleasant Hotel. 90 Grant St.

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■ ALEXANDRA. Nutrien Harcourts. 56 Grant St.

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

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

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

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

Denholm, Travis David Fenton, Daniel Wednesday, July 31 Clifford, Simone Maree Mcgahey, Joanne Mcleish, Jessica Papaevagelou, Efthimia Robbins, Daniel Thursday, August 1

■ Grants of up to $500 are now available to fund events and activities in Nillumbik for people aged 55 and over during the Seniors Festival in of October.

The grant aims to:

■ Recognise and celebrate people aged over 55 in the Shire of Nillumbik

■ Encourage participation of older people in community activities and events

■ Encourage people aged over 55 to learn new skills

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■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Shamrock Hotel. 80 Grant St.

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

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Totally Trout. 42 Downey St.

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

■ ■ BUXTON. Buxton Hotel. 2192 Maroondah Hwy.

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■ ■ BUXTON. Shell Buxton. 2093 Maroondah Hwy.

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

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

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■ EILDON. Foodworks. 18 Main St.

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

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

■ ■ EPPING. Epping RSL. Harvest Home Rd.

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

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

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

■

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

■ ■ ■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Whittlesea NewsXpress. 45 Church St.

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

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

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

■ ■ YARCK. Yarck Hotel. Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ YEA. Amble Inn Cafe. 24 High St.

■

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

■

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

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

Mitchell Shire Edition

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

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Corner Store. 89 High St.

■ ■ BROADFORD. Broadford Hotel. 100 High St.

■

■

■ ■ YEA. Country Club Hotel. 18 High St.

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

■ ■ YEA. Foodworks. 10 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Newsagency. 67 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Post Office. 123 High St.

■

■

■ YEA. Giddy Coat Cafe. 94

High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Service Station. 165 High St.

Barber, Shane Battye, Liam Borham, Shane Chandler, Shaun Wayne Clegg, Ricky Dalli, Justin Dastey, Paul James Denyer, Jess Drenovski, Andrew Drenovski, Emily Ruth Duyker, Adrian John Edwards, Nathan Mark Elson, Steven Fraisage Pty Ltd Frik, Reid Gardner, Kimberley Hay, Malaney Hazleden, Dianne Hyatt, Michael Ismail, Deniz Jahan, Mokhtar

■ Encourage people aged over 55 to build social connections

■ Promote healthy ageing Nillumbik Mayor Cr Ben Ramcharan encouraged community groups to make the most of this opportunity and be part of the 2024 Seniors Festival calendar of events.

“This grant can fund one-off costs associated with running a low cost or free event or activity throughout October, as part of our Seniors Festival celebrations.”

The theme this year is ‘Explore, Engage, Evolve’, and the grant can be used to fund activities such as morning teas, exhibitions or showcases, come and try sessions, intergenerational activities and more.

Traditional name

■ The name bunjil nganga Parkland, was endorsed at the Whittlesea Council July meeting for the area known as Quarry Hills, following a period of community consultation.

■

■ ■ YEA. Grand Central Hotel. 64

■

High St.

■

■ ■ ■ YEA. Marmalades. 20 High St.

■

■ YEA. Mint and Jam. 46 High St.

■ ■ BROADFORD. Commercial Hotel. 31 High St.

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

■ BROADFORD. IGA Supermarket. 65 High St.

■

■

■ YEA. Nutrien Harcourts. 52

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

Meaning ‘eagle view’, the traditional Aboriginal name speaks to the panoramic views from the site and was the preferred name nominated by Traditional Owners.

■

■

■ ■ ■ FLOWERDALE. Hazeldene

General Store. 6 Curlings Rd.

■ ■ GLENBURN. Glenburn Roadhouse. 3883 Melba Hwy.

■

■ ■ ■ HURSTBRIDGE. Hurstbridge Newsagency. 900 Main Hustbridge Rd.

■ ■ KANGAROO GROUND. Kangaroo Ground General Store. 280 Eltham-Yarra Glen Rd.

■ ■ KINGLAKE. Cafe. WhittleseaKinglake Rd.

■ ■ KINGLAKE. Foodworks. 12 Whittlesea-Kinglake Rd.

■ ■ KINGLAKE. Kinglake Pub. 28 Whittlesea-Kinglake Rd.

■ ■ KINGLAKE. United Service Station. 2 Glenburn-Kinglake Rd.

■

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

■ ■ MANSFIELD. Foodworks. 119 High St.

■ ■ MARYSVILLE. Foodworks.

■

■

40A Darwin St.

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

High St.

■

■

■ ■ YEA. Peppercorn Hotel. 21 Station St.

■ ■ YEA. Provender Bakery. 56 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Rendezvous In Yea. 10

High St.

■ ■ YEA. Royal Mail Hotel. 88

High St.

■ DONNYBROOK. Donnybrook Hotel. 825 Donnybrook Rd.

■ DONNYBROOK. Donnybrook Post Office. 810 Donnybrook Rd.

■ KILMORE. BP. 102 Sydney St.

■

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

Jones, Christopher Leigh Kovac, Lennie Lloyd, Steele Mbelonzamba, Dieuveil Mcnally, Sharna Pemberton, Andrew John Petronio, Jamie Robl, Khoner Sampson, Dean Sheldon, Bradley Grant Simeone, Michael Simmonds, Blake William Singh, Prabjot

Sirianni, Tyler

The new name is proposed to be used in conjunction with the informal name of Quarry Hills for a period of up to five years to support the transition to the new name.

City of Whittlesea Administrator Peita Duncan highlighted the significance of the name to honour the unique cultural heritage and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung custodianship of the largest parkland in the municipality.

■

■

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

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

■

■

■

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

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

■

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

■

■ PHEASANT CREEK. Flying Tarts Cafe. 888 WhittleseaKinglake Rd.

■ ■ PHEASANT CREEK. Pheasant Creek Store. 884 Whittlesea-Kinglake Rd.

■ ■ RESEARCH. Research Post Office. 1546 Main Rd.

■ ■ SMITHS GULLY. Smiths Gully General Store. 914 Kangaroo Ground-St Andrews Rd.

■ ■ SOUTH MORANG. Milk Bar.

15 Gorge Rd.

■

■

■ ■ ST ANDREWS. St Andrews General Store. 10 Caledonia St.

■ ■ ST ANDREWS. St Andrews Hotel. 79 Burns St.

■

■ ■ ■ STRATH CREEK. Strath Creek Post Office. 8 Glover Rd.

■

■

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

■ ■ THORNTON. 4 Ways Diner.

1369 Taggerty-Thornton Rd.

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

■

■

■ ■ YEA. Yea Bakery. 44 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Yea Newsagency. 74

High St.

■ ■ YEA. Yea Take-Away. 68 High St.

Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express Edition

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

■ ■ CROYDON NORTH. Croydon North Newsagency. 5 Exeter Rd.

■

■ ■ ■ HEALESVILLE. BP. 66 Maroondah Hwy.

■ KILMORE. Kilmore Bakery. 54 Sydney St.

■ KILMORE. Kilmore Newsagency. 41 Sydney St.

■ ■ KILMORE. Red Lion Hotel. 29-31 Sydney St.

■

■ KILMORE. Royal Oak Hotel. 29-31 Sydney St.

■ KILMORE. United Service Station. 127-145 Powlett St.

■ SEYMOUR. IGA O’Keefe’s. 10/115 Anzac Ave.

■ ■ SEYMOUR. Liberty Seymour. 37-39 Emily St.

■ SEYMOUR. Seymour NewsXpress. 66 Station St.

■ SEYMOUR. Seymour South Post and Lotto. 75 Anzac Ave.

Snowden, Peter Stavropoulos, John Tabone, Luke Wellington, Caitlin Whiteman, Christian Witty, David Edgar Wood, Ryan

Friday, April 2

Monaghan, Rhyss Tennant, Jemma Kate Tuesday, April 6

Bickham, Geoffrey Allen Coad, Nicole

“The land is incredibly culturally significant where artefacts and ceremonial sites have been found, along with trees and quarries which hold significant cultural value. It’s also the site for our Aboriginal Gathering Place which is currently under construction,” Ms Duncan said.

“The name reflects a profound connection to the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people as the custodians of this site, a responsibility that is passed down through generations.”

Dandoulis, Michael Dowell, Katie-Lee Hall, Michelle Heath, Gareth Kezerle, Robert Konneh, Aalijah

“The City of Whittlesea has the second largest Aboriginal population in metropolitan Melbourne and adopting a Woi-wurrung name for this iconic site demonstrates our commitment to acknowledging and deepening our understanding of our shared history as part of our reconciliation efforts.”

■

■

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Coles Express. 123 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Grand Hotel. 270 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Healesville Newsagency. 195 Maroondah Hwy.

■ SEYMOUR. Prince of Wales Hotel. 48 Emily St.

■ ■ SEYMOUR. Royal Hotel. 26 Emily St.

■ SEYMOUR. Terminus Hotel. 26 Station St.

■ SEYMOUR. Top Shop. Cnr Anzac Ave and Delatite Rd.

Merry, David Morgan, Christopher Daniel Rodger, Bradley Walsh, Justin Woodley, Brendan Allan

The name was identified from a cultural values study that informed a future directions plan for the site which was developed in partnership with the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.

■

■

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

■

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

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

■ ■ LILYDALE. Lilydale Newsagency. 237 Main St.

■

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

■

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

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

■ ■ SEVILLE. Wooworths Seville. 568 Warburton Hwy.

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

■

■ ■ ■ WARBURTON. Bakery. 3415 Warburton Hwy.

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

■ ■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook Hotel. 15 Main Rd.

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

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

■

■ WALLAN. Wallan News and Lotto. Shop 6, 55 High St.

■ WALLAN EAST. New Rattlers Inn. Station St.

■ WANDONG. Caltex Star Mart. 3272 Epping-Kilmore Rd.

■ WANDONG. Dundee’s Fish and Cips. 3272 Epping-Kilmore Rd.

■ WANDONG. IGA Supermarket. 3272 Epping-Kilmore Rd.

■ WANDONG. Wandong Post News and Tatts. 3272 EppingKilmore Rd.

Mansfield Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings

Wednesday, July 31

Bromilow, Stephen

Thursday, August 1

Coll, Peter John

Wednesday, August 7

The name bunjil nganga Parkland will now be formally lodged with Geographic Naming Victoria.

The 330-hectare parkland will ultimately expand to cover approximately 1100 hectares and will be home to an Aboriginal Gathering Place, the Granite Hills Major Community Park and an extensive trail network.

Young mentors

■ Nillumbik residents over 50 who want to improve their digital literacy are invited to join a new program.

The Be Connected Young Mentors Program for Digital Literacy is designed to empower residents with essential digital skills while fostering intergenerational connections.

Beginning on Tuesday, August 6, the sixweek program pairs older adults with students from a local high school.

■ ■ ■ ■ WARRANDYTE. Grand Hotel.

■

140 Yarra St.

■ ■ WARRANDYTE. Quinton’s Supa IGA Supermarket. 1/402 Warrandyte Rd.

■ WANDONG. Kemp’s Wandong Bakery. 372 EppingKilmore Rd.

■ WANDONG. Magpie and Stump Hotel. 3313 EppingKilmore Rd.

Barrett, Kenneth Alan Cashmore, Chrstian Will Chater, Aaron Clark, Gordon Gocmen, Alihan Haley, Nicholas Richard Herz, James Adrian Horsburgh, Flynn Patrick Howden, Shane Hussain, Thannun Younis Koala Cherries Pty Ltd Nasse, Cindy Parsons, Scott Pye, Scott Sammut, Rachael Schiehoelter, Peter Adria Smith, William David Stafford, Lachlan Swaney, Jake

Participants will receive one-on-one guidance using digital devices, sending emails, video chatting with family, navigating Google Maps, and more.

The sessions ensure residents can learn at their own pace and focus on what matters most to them.

Across Victoria

WEST GATE

Tunnel first ride

■ A major milestone has been reached on the State Government’s West Gate Tunnel Project – with the completion of the entire road surface on a series of new connections that will link the West Gate Tunnel to the city.

Premier Jacinta Allan and Transport Infrastructure Minister Danny Pearson joined project workers for the first car ride to the project’s highest point – a 27-metre-high ramp connecting CityLink to the new elevated road above Footscray Rd.

Crews completed the final concrete road surface of the bridges and elevated roads which will take drivers from the West Gate Tunnel to West Melbourne, Docklands and the city.

Connections for the freight industry will also be improved with direct access to the Port of Melbourne via ramps at Mackenzie Rd and Appleton Dock Rd

To build the elevated road and other city connections that stretch from Footscray to Docklands, crews have installed 11.6km of road deck, more than 4000 barriers along the bridges and more than 22.5km of barrier rail.

During construction, 278 separate spans of road were installed to build this vital series of connections, with the longest being about 100m.

Remaining works on the city connections will include the installation of drainage, sign gantries, electrical and safety systems including the intelligent traffic management system, along with the final layer of asphalting.

“The West Gate Tunnel Project will transform travel in Melbourne’s west – delivering a vital alternative to the West Gate Bridge, providing a much-needed second river crossing, cutting congestion and taking 9000 trucks a day off local roads,” said a Government representative.

“It will also create 14km of new and upgraded walking and cycling paths, and close to nine hectares of new parks and wetlands.”

Across Victoria TEENAGER LACEY REPORTED MISSING

■ Police are appealing for public assistance as they search for missing Quarry Hill teenager Lacey.

The 18-year-old was last seen at a property on Carpenter St about 11am last Tuesday (July 16).

Police and family have concerns for her welfare due to her age and her intellectual disability.

Lacey is described as being Caucasian, slim build, blue eyes and brown mid length hair and fading purple dye.

Lacey uses public transport and is known to frequent the Bendigo, Frankston and Melbourne CBD areas.

Investigators have released an image of Lacey in the hope that someone can provide information on her current whereabouts.

BAYSIDE

Don’t crash

■ Bayside Council is We'd like to reminding cyclists to take extra precaution when sharing roads whilst collection trucks are in operation.

“During the darker winter mornings, road users are reminded to take more care as visibility on roads becomes challenging,” a Council representative said.

Statewide

GREATER GEELONG

Hit-run reported

■ Police are investigating a hit-run collision in Marshall last Wednesday evening (July 17).

It is understood a red Holden Commodore sedan collided with a silver Mazda hatch on Barwarre Rd about 6.15pm.

The female driver of the Mazda was airlifted to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Police were told the male driver of the Commodore dumped the vehicle and fled on foot.

The male and female passengers of the Commodore remained at the scene.

They were both taken to hospital with minor injuries.

exact circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be determined and investigations remain ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam/CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a report at www.crime stoppers.com.au

YARRAM

Witness appeal

■ Wellington Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating an armed robbery at a shopping complex in Yarram

Officers have been told an unknown male and female entered the complex on James St between 3.50am and 4.15am on Friday, July 12.

Three staff members were physically restrained by the offenders, who then attempted to force entry into an ATM.

After their unsuccessful attempts at breaking into the ATM, the man and woman forced open a cash register at a business inside the complex, however there was no money inside. It is understood the offenders ran away empty handed.

Investigators are keen to speak with anyone who might know anything about the identity of the man and woman.

Observer

Melbourne ● ●

Lacey: missing from Quarry Hill

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Local Briefs

Solar powered

■ Mitchell Shire Council will soon flip the switch to solar energy at the Kilmore Leisure Centre, following the installation of a solar panel system set to revolutionise how the centre powers its operations.

The 61.6kW solar system comprises 112 JA Solar panels, each rated at 550W, installed on the rooftop.

This state-of-the-art setup, monitored by Solar Analytics, will track electricity generation and consumption, ensuring cost savings and optimal energy use.

“By harnessing solar power, the Centre will benefit from significant cost savings on electricity usage, drawing from the grid only when necessary,” said a Mitchell Shire Council representative.

“Part of Council’s capital works program, this project aligns with Mitchell Shire Council’s Climate Emergency Action Plan, demonstrating our commitment to reduce emissions and build resilience to climate change.”

$9.9m in budget

■ Strathbogie Council says that its 202425 Budget provides $9.9 million capital works program, in addition to $3.6 million carried forward from 2023-24.

The capital works program includes projects such as:

■ Female Friendly change facilities at Longwood Recreation Reserve $620,000 (subject to government funding).

■ Increased funding for road rehabilitation and reasealing.

■ Creation of dedicated road reseal preparation crew.

■ Implementation of new corporate information technology to improve customer service and reporting – joint project with three other councils.

Strathbogie Council has endorsed six projects as part of the Pitch My Project initiative which saw 15 projects presented to the community for a vote.

■ $50,000 for Euroa Strathbogie Shire Art Trail

■ $50,000 for Strathbogie Walking Path (provisionally based on seeking further advice and direction from the Department of Environment, Energy and Climate Action regarding native vegetation impacts)

■ $50,000 for Euroa Branding Project Stage 2

■ $50,000 for Longwood Nature Play Space Stage 2

■ $50,000 for Avenel Memorial Hall

■ $50,000 for Ruffy Tablelands Centre Verandah

Culvert works

■ Sgnificant culvert works are scheduled on Broadford-Glenaroura Rd until Friday, August 9, weather permitting. These essential works aim to improve the drainage system, reducing water damage to the road pavements and ensuring long-term road safety and durability.

A road closure will be necessary for three days, from Wednesday (July 24) to Friday (July 26) to facilitate these works.

“During this period, a detour will be in place via Sugarloaf Creek Rd and Seymour Pyalong Rd,” said a Mitchell Shire Council representative.

“Motorists who frequently use BroadfordGlenaroura Rd are advised to allow extra time during the periodic road works and to follow the designated detour route during the closure.”

High St parking

■ The car park at 34 High St, Mansfield, is now open, with 84 additional car parking spaces in the heart of Mansfield’s central business district.

The asphalt carpark features two designated parking bays for people with a disability. It will be landscaped and offer a country feel, with grass and trees.

The carpark has been fitted with solar lighting and pre-fitted electrical conduit, for future electric vehicle charging, said a Mansfield Council representative.

■ A new set of traffic lights at a busy South Morang intersection will help to ease congestion and reduce travel times for motorists.

The City of Whittlesea awarded a contract for the installation of lights at the intersection of Findon and Williamsons Rds at its Council Meeting on Tuesday last week (July 16).

The traffic lights will provide residents with safe access to a number of nearby community facilities, including schools, train stations and shopping centres.

In addition to the traffic lights, the project also includes road widening, drainage works, installation of streetlights, signage, line marking and landscape works.

The intersection upgrade follows the completion of the Findon Rd extension, running from Williamsons Rd to Danaher Drive, in June last year.

The extension featured the creation of additional lanes, a walking and cycling path aligned with the existing Yan Yean Pipe Track and a road bridge over the underpass to Mernda

City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said the signalised intersection will help to improve traffic flow in an increasingly busy part of the municipality: “We are constantly looking for ways to improve our traffic network so residents can travel quickly and safely.”

New trucks carry images Lights for South Morang

$25,000

■ Murrindindi Shire Council has been successful in its application for a $25,000 grant from Regional Development Victoria’s Tiny Towns Fund , to make small towns across the Shire more beautiful and vibrant.

With a co-contribution of $10,000 from Council, the grant will fund the installation of garden beds, street trees, and signs to revitalise the towns’ streetscapes.

“Funding will be allocated to suitable projects in line with Council’s works program and based on community requests and feedback already gathered,” said a Shire representative.

Murrindindi Council’s Community Wellbeing and Economic Development Portfolio Councillor Sandice McAulay said “Murrindindi Shire is dotted with 42 smaller localities, each with their own unique character.

“Funding support for upgrades and improvements like this is critical for small rural councils, and we’re grateful to the State Government for awarding this grant to us.

“This funding will help beautify our charming villages and townships and enhance our community’s sense of place. Council would also like to acknowledge that many great ideas from our community were not successful in this grant round.”

Council News

Transport Plan

■ A comprehensive plan aimed at improving the way residents, businesses and visitors move around the Whittlesea municipality over the next decade was endorsed at the Council Meeting on Tuesday last week (July 16).

The Integrated Transport Plan 2024-2034 includes actions that aim to increase walking and cycling among the community, advocate for better and safer public transport, improve road safety, support efficient freight movements and ensure accessible parking for those with mobility needs.

“Designed to promote more convenient transport choices for the community, the plan will serve as a framework to address current and future transport needs, ensuring a wellconnected, efficient, and sustainable transport system for all,” said a Whittlesea Council representative.

City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson expressed her enthusiasm for the plan's potential impact on the community.

"The endorsement of the Integrated Transport Plan marks a significant milestone. This plan reflects our commitment to creating a more accessible and sustainable transport network that meets the diverse needs of our growing community,” Ms Wilson said.

“It's an exciting step forward in making the City of Whittlesea a place where everyone can move around with ease and confidence."

“Feedback from the community during consultation provided valuable insights into the key challenges and opportunities related to transport in the City of Whittlesea

■ A new fleet of four waste collection trucks are now on the road carrying images of Mansfield Shire in a campaign to ‘Keep the High Country beautiful’.

Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said Cleanaway’s waste service was the largest contract managed by Council

“Waste collection is a core service for Council and managing this well is a critical Council function,” said Cr Rabie.

“Managing waste correctly at all levels, from residents to governments, is key to making sure our shire maintains its wild beauty.

“That’s why we have put these giant moving billboards that illustrate this beauty right on the side of our trucks. They look fantastic while offering a reminder of how important waste collection is to our environment,” Cr Rabie said.

“It highlighted issues such as public transport availability, traffic congestion and the need for improved walking and cycling infrastructure.

"We thank everyone who provided valuable insights that helped inform this plan and we look forward to working with the community to shape an inclusive transport system that supports a vibrant, connected and sustainable future for all," Ms Wilson said.

“The plan outlines short, medium, and long-term actions, including continued advocacy for the Wollert Rail extension.

“The plan also proposes the development of transport outcomes that are safe, reliable and environmentally friendly, including a new Road Safety Plan, advocating for more frequent bus services and supporting delivery of the Electric Vehicle Transition Plan.”

Emerging Artists

■ Artists have been selected for the Nillumbik Artist in Residence Program. They will be setting up studio at Edendale and the Eltham Library in the coming weeks.

Diamond Creek-based photographic artist Dylan Negri has been selected for the Visual Artist in Residence at Edendale Community Environment Farm

Dylan is originally from South Africa and is a childhood brain cancer survivor.

“His highly experimental photographs create feelings of wonder and awe. His work explores the convergence of man-made and natural image-making techniques,” said a Council representative.

“Dylan plans to further his explorations in natural and sustainable image-making processes during his residency at Edendale and engage with visitors to encourage others to do the same.”

Eltham based author and illustrator Annabelle Hale has been selected for the Artist in Residence at Eltham Library

Annabelle is passionate about children's literature, and the positive effects that stories can have on children and parents.

She is a published illustrator and is currently working with Affirm Press to publish her first book as an author/illustrator. The Bin Monster is due to be published in 2025.

The 2024-25 Nillumbik Artist in Residence Program provides local creatives a space to explore their practice in an environment removed from the distractions of everyday life, connect to the Nillumbik community and to develop a Nillumbik-inspired project.

The artists will be offering a series of community workshops over the next 12 months, the Council representative said.

● Lydia Wilson, Chair Administrator

SUNDAY STROLL LEADS TO ARREST

■ Manningham Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man following an alleged robbery in Donvale on Friday.

Police allege that a man walked into a retail store on Tunstall Rd and made threats towards staff, demanding that they hand over money. It is believed that staff allegedly handed over cash and the man fled the scene in a vehicle.

Investigators spotted a man, who they wished to speak to in relation to the incident, walking past the Doncaster Police Station on Sunday morning about 8am.

Detectives and Doncaster police officers swiftly arrested the man. ● ● Doncaster Police Station

by Ex-historic Monument restorer (France) Fascia and Guttering Carpentry, Carport Decking, Painting and Home Improvements

A 35-year-old man of no fixed address has been charged with robbery, make threats to kill, make threats to injure and possess drug of dependence. He was to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Sunday.

Local Theatre What’s On Clyde Chabot

Frederick Fife

■ Bayside author Anna Johnston's debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife has been published by Penguin Random House Australia and is now available in Australian and New Zealand bookstores. The book will also be available in the USA and Canada from September.

In a delightful personal family connection - whilst the story, characters and settings in The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife are fictional, Anna dedicates the book to 'my best friend Fred, who was also my grandfather.' When her beloved grandfather moved to a real-life nursing home, Anna left an imminent career in medicine to follow her heart and became employed as the social support co-ordinator.

Whilst enjoying 'shaking up the usual program', Anna could now most importantly spend more time with her pa, sitting with him for lunch during every shift. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care, Anna began to write about it.

The heartfelt, at times hilarious, story tells of Frederick Fife. Born 'with an extra helping of kindness in his heart,' Fred is now 82, lonely, broke and on the brink of homelessness.

In a bizarre case of mistaken identity, Fred takes the place of cranky Bernard Greer at Wattle River Nursing Home.

Suddenly he has a roof over his head, warm meals and the chance to be part of a family again. As Fred walks in Bernard's shoes (and underpants), he discovers more about the man's past, and what it would take to return a broken life to mint condition.

Anna is presenting one-hour Author Talks about The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife as follows:

■ Woodend Library. Wed. July 24. 10.30am

■ Squishy Minnie Bookstore, Kyneton. Wed. July 24. 6.30pm

■ Bendigo Library. Thurs. July 25. 5.30pm

■ Chelsea Library. Wed August 28 6.30pm Congratulations to Anna Johnston on the success of her very first novel. As Anna points out at the beginning of the book, although the narrative is fictional, 'the love is entirely real.'

- Cheryl Threadgold

MacBeth

■ Oh the timeless MacBeth; all styles, all countries have taken up the challenge to present this masterpiece, exploring the intricacies of “o’er vaulting ambition”. At Malthouse we were enticed by the promise of “an exhilarating epic of ambition, cunning and lust for agency...” wherein Lady MacBeth would fill in gaps in Shakespeare’s play. And tell it from a woman’s perspective. We know that the Bard’s original took some licence with the truth of Macbeth’s and Banquo’s characters to look after his own skin in dangerous times. In Zinny Harris’ new writing we have Lady MacBeth assume control while her husband goes missing, suffering mental disarray following Duncan’s murder. We find Lady McDuff, pregnant, having an affair with Banquo and domiciled in the MacBeth castle ... All the while two foreboding ravens are perched atop the castle wall. Added to this we have barren trees when we see the witches prevaricatory show of the future for MacBeth’s rule.

Witchcraft/sorcery is strong. But are we perhaps the sorcery dictating how history turns out ...? Natasha Herbet’s Brechtian styled witch/commentator appears to include us in the evolving pattern of control, murder, cover ups, prevarications.

Promising ideas they are, but overall there was a blandness about this production, a shallowness of purpose delivery. No real moments of drama, even at the murders or the twist (literally of the knife and of the plot ) at the end. The strong changes to the original just did not flow through and grab us to consider what might possibly have left Scotland and the world a different place.

Praise for Jethro Woodward and Ethan Hunter for atmospheric moods of knockings, raven wings.and music. Also Dann Barber for the magnificently functional revolving castle, where hurrying actors moved our focus towards the next scene.

But overall this production just left me sometimes mesmerised, but too often uninvolved.

Performance Season: Until July 28

Venue: Merlyn Theatre, The Malthouse

Bookings: malthousetheatre.com.au

- Review by Maggie Morrison

Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

SHREK THE MUSICAL

■ Shrek the Musical Jr presented by Melbourne-based company The Young Australian Broadway Chorus is fun entertainment for all ages.

Established 25 years ago, the company, a division of Stage School Australia, is known for its musical theatre training for young people aged 8-18. It is to be commended for giving opportunities to many young entertainers.

Our hearts have been touched by Shrek, the green ogre, since 2001, with his first of many films and television appearances.

The musical commences with seven-yearold Shrek (played by Louis de Luca alternating with Jamie Goldman) being released by his parents from the swamp where they live to seek his own life of adventures.

An older, now settled, Shrek (Peter Gallagher) is unhappy to discover his own swamp has been invaded by banished fairy tale misfits who have been cast out by villainous, vertically challenged Lord Farquaad (James Pringle). Farquaad has ambitions to marry Princess Fiona (Bethanie Matic) so that he will become king.

In order to have his swamp cleared of its inhabitants, the Lord gives Shrek the task of rescuing the feisty Princess Fiona from her tower. Normally reclusive Shrek is accompanied by talkative but loyal Donkey (Taylor Oliver) who he has rescued from the clutches of Farquaad.

The stage is brought to life with a cast of dozens of fairy tale characters: Gingy, the gingerbread man, Pinocchio, the Little Pig, Peter Pan and many more were portrayed by an array of surprising twists and back-stories to drive the plot.

We heard continual outpourings of gasps, shrieks, giggles and squeals of delight from the young audience members.

The dance, songs, costumes and lighting of this production had the audience captivated until the final curtain drop. If there were a favourite, it was the energetic Donkey with his constant wisecracking dialogue with Shrek

Presented at the Cripps Centre, St Kilda East. - Review by Sherryn Danaher

Importance of Being Earnest

■ Green Room award-winning theatre company Bloomshed presents 'a scandalous revival' of Oscar Wilde's comedy The Importance of Being Earnest from August 1 - 11 at fortyfivedownstairs, 45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Bloomshed’s latest take-down of high society. Frills, finery, and frivolity will see this adaptation transform Wilde’s irreverent satire into a salacious display of gross indecency.

Pushing the boundaries of what live art is and can be, from immersive installations to radical re-imaginings of classic texts, Bloomshed mixes big political ideas with entertaining and accessible storytelling.

Known show warnings: Coarse Language, smoke and haze effects, strobe lighting, and a little bit of ankle.

Created and performed by: Elizabeth Brennan, James Jackson, Tom Molyneux.

Performance Details: August 1 - 11

Fortyfivedownstairs, 45 Flinders Lane Melbourne

$35 - $48

fortyfivedownstairs.com/event/earnest/ - Cheryl Threadgold

Winner Takes It All

■ The Melbourne Fringe Festival returns from October 1 – 20 with hundreds of diverse events to choose from.

In a special first announcement, the Festival has released one of the highlights of this year’s program.

In a major new Festival-first commission, cultural deviants, The Huxleys, will present The Winner Takes It All, a grand slam queer take-

over of the sporting world where Melbourne’s queer community can live out their own glamourous athletic dreams.

Running over the first and second weekends of this year’s Melbourne Fringe Festival, The Winner Takes It All is a large-scale participatory event come photoshoot where The Huxleys invite ordinary citizens en masse from the LGBTQIA+ community and their allies to enter a domain that they may have long dreamed of, but may never have been comfortable participating in – the realm of competitive sports.

Dressed head to toe in high-camp regalia, anyone who has ever felt excluded from sport –whether because of gender, sexuality, culture, background or disability – will get to live out epic sport fantasies, captured in a series of joyous and surreal photographs.

Hundreds of participants will fill the swimming pool, tennis court and cricket pitch in an epic reclaiming of the national pastime. They will also get to take home their very own limited-edition print. Entries to participate are open now at melbournefringe.com.au

The Winner Takes It All will take place at Prahran Aquatic Centre, Princes Gardens Tennis Court and Malvern Cricket Ground in the City of Stonnington on October 6 and 12.

- Cheryl Threadgold

■ Monash University Performing Arts Centres (MPAC) presents French author, artistic director and performer, Clyde Chabot, a unique immersive theatre maker. The Australian premiere of the Clyde Chabot Trilogy will take place on August 16 (in English) and August 17 (in French) across two venues - the David Li Sound Gallery and The Count’s Jazz Club.

In her first appearance in Australia, Chabot presents three of her works in collaboration with students from Monash University’s Sir Zelman Cowen School of Music and Performance, for an intimate audience of only 50 people.

The trilogy will begin with Sicilia, set in the David Li Sound Gallery. Chabot will unveil the history of migration in her family, as they left Sicily at the end of the 19th century for the United States, for Tunisia, and then France. She performs at a large table as if the audience are her family, enjoying wine and cheese as part of the 55-minute show.

The show will be recreated with dancer Rosa Voto, who will perform a Tarantella dance and music, along with student musicians.The audience stays on at the table for pizza and conversation while Clyde changes for Part Two. The second part of the trilogy is A Soldier's Daughter, set in The Count's. Chabot delves into her experience being a soldier’s daughter, where she humorously questions how this may have affected her personality, again accompanied by musicians studying at the Sir Zelman Cowen School.

After a short break with drinks in Ian Potter Centre foyer, the trilogy finishes with Chicago-reconstitution, back in the David Li Sound Gallery. This story of the premature birth of Clyde Chabot’s daughter in the United States in 2002, explores the medical world, the worries, the joys and the uncertainties associated with the birth of this fragile being that suddenly arises in a country that is not theirs. 16 years later the child discovers her native land and looks at what constitutes her. Clyde presents this as an immersive performance, with a chorus of students performing the role of the American child. Clyde Chabot’s daughter herself will make a live virtual appearance.

Clyde Chabot is a unique theatre maker who has established herself as a leader in the creation of ‘autofiction’. Her work has been widely performed in her native France as well as across the world from the US to Europe and Asia

August 16 (in English), 7pm. August 17 (in French), 7pm . With an audience of only 50 per night. https://www.monash.edu/performing-arts-centres/event/clyde-chabot-trilogy/

Six The Musical

■ Six the Musical returns to Melbourne in just over two weeks, and rehearsals for the smashhit musical are underway.

The Tony Award-winning musical previously enjoyed record-breaking seasons across the country and following huge demand will re-open at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre from August 2.

Six tells the extraordinary story of the six wives of King Henry VIII who step out of the shadow of their infamous husband and reclaim their own narratives.

Written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, this modern pop-inspired musical brings the historical figures to life, portraying them as fierce and influential pop stars in their own right.

Audiences are taken on a journey through the lives of Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anna of Cleves, Katherine Howard and Catherine Parr, each telling their own story and reclaiming their own narrative.

Taking on the role of Henry VIII’s first wife, Catherine of Aragon, is Kimberley Hodgson, and joining the cast as the second wife, Anne Boleyn, is WAAPA graduate Deirdre Khoo Loren Hunter returns to the role of the loyal third wife Jane Seymour, and the independent Anna of Cleves will be played by Zelia Rose Kitoko who made her musical theatre debut in the Australian production of Hamilton in 2020.

The role of the playful fifth wife, Katherine Howard is once again played by Chelsea Dawson, and Giorgia Kennedy joins the cast in the role of the empowering Catherine Parr. Joining the Six Australian Queens are the swings made up of Gabriella Boumford, Thalia Smith, and returning Dance Captain/Swing Chiara Assetta and Resident Choreographer/ Assistant to the Director/Alternate Swing Cristina D’Agostino. Also supported by the Six on stage band including Music Director / Keys Claire Healy, Assistant Music Director / Keys Heidi Maguire, Kathryn Stammers on Drums, Danielle Colligan on Guitar and Ann Metry on Bass. This new company comes together under the helm of Australian Associate Director Sharon Millerchip leading the team once again.

Six the Musical has book, lyrics and music by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss. It is directed by Lucy Moss and Jamie Armitage and choreographed by Carrie-Anne Ingrouille. Set Design is by Emma Bailey, Costume Design is by Gabriella Slade, Lighting Design is by Tim Deiling and Sound Design is by Paul Gatehouse. The Orchestrator is Tom Curran and Musical Supervisor is Joe Beighton. Originally Produced by Kenny Wax, Wendy and Andy Barnes, and George Stiles. Produced in Australia by Louise Withers, Michael Coppel and Linda Bewick Tickets on sale now: sixthemusical.com.au

● ● Taylor Oliver (Donkey),Peter Gallagher (Shrek) and Bethanie Matic (Princess Fiona) in Shrek the Musical Jr. Photo: Kit Haselden

Local Theatre Observations

Shows

■ PEP Productions: Pep’s One Act Wonders, July 26, 27 at 8pm; July 27 at 2pm at the Doncaster Playhouse, 679 Doncaster Rd., Doncaster. One-act plays include: The Learning Curve (by Jennifer Pacey), Women of the World (by Emma Wood), Silence (by Cat Tregillis), Let's Get Personal (by Louise Hopewell), Two Minutes and Counting (by Jennifer Pacey), The Black Spot (by Louise Hopewell), Me Time (by Jennifer Pacey) and Un-TIT-Led (by Julia Lambert). Directors: Jennifer Pacey, Julia Lambert, Justin Cleaver, LB Bradley and Sarah Tierney. Tickets: $25. Bookings: Trybooking.

■ Gemco Players: Night Watch (by Terry Pratchett and Stephen Briggs) Until July 28 at the GEM Community Arts Centre, 19 Kilvington Drive, Emerald. Bookings: gemcoplayers.org.

■ Mansfield Musical and Dramatic Society (MMUDS): Kid Stakes (by Ray Lawler) Until July 27 at 15 View St., Mansfield. Director: Daryl Hunt. Bookings: mmuds.org.au

■ MLOC Productions: Alice by Heart, July 26–August 3 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Director: Chris Ryan; Choreographer: Molly Whytcross; Vocal Director: Diane O’Hare; Musical Director: Hannah Hunt. Bookings: mloc.org.au

■ The 1812 Theatre: The Sweet Delilah Swim Club (by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope, Jamie Wooten), August 1–24 at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Amy Calvert. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au

■ Melbourne French Theatre: La Surprise De L’Amour (Lovestruck) (by Marivaux) August 6 – 17 at Melbourne French Theatre, La Maison de Maitre, 203-205 Canning St (cnr. Neill St.), Carlton. Director: Donald McManus. Bookings: melbournefrench theatre.org.au/la-surprise-de-lamour/

■ Williamstown Musical Theatre Company: Alice in Wonderland Jr. August 2 – 11 at Altona Theatre, 115 Civic Pde., Altona. Bookings: wmtc.org.au

■ Beaumaris Theatre: The Bridges of Madison County (by Robert James Waller), August 9 – 24 at 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Colin Armstrong. Bookings: beaumaristheatre.com.au

■ The Mount Players: Family Values (by David Williamson) August 16 – September 1 at the Mountview Theatre, 56 Smith St., Mt Macedon. Director: David Runnalls. Bookings: themountplayers.com

■ Brighton Theatre Company: Admissions (by Joshua Harmon) August 16 – 31 at the Brighton Arts and Cultural Centre, Wilson St., Brighton. Director: Deborah Fabbro. Bookings: brightontheatrecompany.com.au

■ Malvern Theatre Company: Little Women the Musical (Book by Allen Knee, Lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, Music by Jason Howland) August 23 – September 7 at 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East. Director: Alan Burrows; Musical Director: Adam Bianco; Choreographer: Susan Lewis. Bookings: 1300 131 552.

■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: Things

I Know to be True (by Andrew Bovell) August 23 – September 7 at Warrandyte Mechanics’ Institute, 180 Yarra St., Warrandyte. Director: Kellie Tweeddale. Bookings: trybooking.com/CQZXF

■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): Hand to God (by Robert Askins) August 29 – September 7 at Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman St., Strathmore. Director: Brian Edmond. Bookings: stagtheatre.org

■ Synchronicity: A Vintage Death (by Geoff Collishaw, based on the novel by Colin King), August 30 – September 7 at The Engine Room, 58 View St., Bendigo. Director: Geoff Collishaw and Tania Maxwell). Bookings: synchronicity.org.au

■ MOARTZ Inc: MOARTZ 25th Anniversary, One-Act Play Gala Weekend (Joanna Murray-Smith/Melinda Chapman), August 23 – 25 at Monash Hall, Reserve St., Yallourn North. Directors: Annette O’Shea/Mike Pullar. Admission: $30/$25. Bookings: moartz.com

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Minnie and Liraz (by Lally Katz) August 30 – September 8 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Director: Barbara Crawford. Bookings: mordialloctheatre. com.au

Popera: sex, death, politics

■ Patrons at The Butterfly Club were treated to a fun evening of gameshow-style theatre when Popera: Sex Death and Politics had a short season.

Fast-paced and involving a range of different gameshow devices, such as spin the wheel, a trivia quiz and panels of contestants drawn from the audience vying to win prizes, Popera sought to highlight commonalities between pop music and opera; there was also something of a jilted lover theme running through the show that gave it structure. Overall, then, an amusing divertissement.

The show was hosted by Uma Dobia who was accompanied on piano by Lucy. Both performer and musician were lively presences throughout the evening, hamming it up for an appreciative audience.

Uma in particular, a classically trained soprano, gave free rein to her diva tendencies in both the pop and opera musical genres, her beautiful voice a highlight of the evening.

The humour was very much slapstick oriented and, while not every joke or funny story landed successfully, there was enough on the night to keep the audience amused.

Occasionally, interspersed with the humour, some serious points were made about sexually exploitative relationships between composers, musicians and arts patrons.

However, these jarred with the overall tone of the evening and felt somewhat lost amidst the mirth and merriment.

Produced by Little Train Creative, Popera was written by Bronny Lane and Uma Dobia, and directed by Bronny Lane. Lane's direction is confident and assured and certainly keeps the action moving at a fair clip.

She was aided immeasurably by the great use of music, composed of both original and existing songs, which was arranged and produced by Simon Reich, with original music by Bronny Lane, Uma Dobia and Simon Reich

So this comedy cabaret show made for an enjoyable evening out and is something to keep an eye out for should it have a return season in Melbourne.

- Review by Peter Murphy

When The Light Breaks

■ When the Light Breaks recounts a tragedy unfolding on a single day in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Director Runar Rúnarsson steers a bleak, dark melodrama that emerges despite the stunning light of the midnight sun.

Young lovers, art students Una (Elin Hall), and Diddi (Baldur Einarsson), in the throes of a passionate fledgling romance, make future plans.

Diddi, flying home to his parents that morning, vows to break up with his current girlfriend, Klara (Katla Njalsdottir).

Una, having stayed the night with Diddi and late for class, grabs a pair of Diddi’s shoes and hurries out. Diddi doesn’t make it home.

Shots of a tunnel explosion and the inferno that follows hint at many casualties, Diddi among them. Flags flown at half-mast underscore a national tragedy.

A distraught Gunni (Mikael Kaaber), Diddi’s flatmate, begs Una not to reveal her true relationship with Diddi to save Klara’s feelings.

All this occurs in the film’s setup.

What follows is an intense, fragile narrative, where we watch Una nursing her grief in secret and spending the day in torment.

Rúnarsson reveals Una’s sense of mixed emotions with flashes of jealousy and envy as Klara is allowed to bear her grief in public.

Hall’s depiction of restrained emotion with bubbling anger just under the surface is palpable.

Later, after vodka shots, the teenagers let their pent-up feelings out with wild dancing to Diddi’s favourite headbanging music.

This proves cathartic, lifting the tension, and a bond forms between the two young women.

Back at Diddi and Gunni’s flat, Klara presents Una with the boots she forgot earlier. We are left wondering if Klara knew Diddi’s secret all along.

The Scandinavian Film Festival in Melbourne runs from July 19 - August 7. scandinavianfilmfestival.com

- Review by Kathryn Keeble

By Jane’s Hand

■ Following a sell out season in 2023, By Jane's Hand has returned to La Mama until July 28 at the La Mama Courthouse, Carlton

Described as 'a whimsical window into the magnificent mind of Jane Austen’, this new work from old collides elements of music and verbatim theatre within a dreamscape.

Jane's life was censored by the patriarchy and romanticised by popular culture. Why did her family burn her letters? How and why did she create?

Performed as an ensemble piece, three actors will play Jane and characters from Pride and Prejudice, inviting audiences to become immersed in Jane's magnificent mind, bringing what they know about her, her novels and her meaning to the space; and maybe to discover more.

This work has been created/curated from an intergenerational feminist perspective. With text by Jane Austen, songs and music are by various composers chosen by Jane Austen, arranged by Emma O'Brien, and devised and curated by Emma and Olivia O'Brien of Seldom Theatre Productions

Directed by Emma O'Brien, the performers are Isha Menon, Marjorie Butcher and Olivia O'Brien.

Performance Dates: Until July 28

Venue: La Mama Courthouse, 349 Drummond St., Carlton.

Bookings and performance times: lamama.com.au

Mousetrap in Frankston

■ The world's longest-running play, Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap, is coming to the Frankston Arts Centre from July 31 to August 3.

Directed by Robyn Nevin, the cast will include Hannah Frederickson (Mollie Ralston), Alex Rathgeber (Giles Ralston), Geraldine Turner (Mrs Boyle), Chris Parker (Major Metcalf), Miranda Daughtry (Miss Casewell), Gerry Connolly (Mr Paravacini), Timothy Walker (Detective Sergeant Trotter) and Alexander Wolfe (Christopher Wren)

The audience is invited to solve the worldfamous mystery. As news spreads of a murder in London, a group of seven strangers find themselves snowed in at a remote countryside guesthouse. When a police sergeant arrives, the guests discover – to their horror –that a killer is in their midst. One by one, the suspicious characters reveal their sordid pasts. Which one is the murderer? Who will be their next victim?

Presented by John Frost for Crossroads Live Australia and Shake and Stir Theatre Co.

Performance Details:

July 31 at 7.30pm; August 1 at 1pm and 7.30pm; August 2 at 7.30pm; August 3 at 2pm and 7.30pm

Frankston Arts Centre, Davey St., Frankston

140 minutes (including interval) Bookings: themousetrap.com.au/tickets/

Opera Closets

■ Well-loved Melbourne mezzo-soprano Dimity Shepherd has always been an icon of style, so she brings together her love of fashion and opera in a new one-woman show entitled Opera Closets, in the upcoming Flinders Fringe Festival.

Written by Dimity herself, Opera Closets is a show where every outfit tells a story and every story has a song, enabling Dimity to enjoy the multifarious costumes she loves to wear, and sing the arias that fit the costumes. And as an operatic mezzo, Dimity has an excellent range of costumes to showcase.

She will be singing her favourite musical pieces coupled with some original songs, accompanied by chamber trio The Persephone Project, with Dimity’s long-term associate artist, Phillipa Safety, at the piano.

Dimity’s creative team also has some serious artistic muscle, as her co-directors are renowned actors Richard Piper and Evelyn Krape, making Opera Closets one frock opera not to be missed.

Curated by festival director Melissa Jackson, Flinders Fringe Festival looks like a great winter warmer, also featuring several fashion events, a talent quest and an open choir rehearsal of Street Requiem with Dr Kathleen McGuire.

Local talent and events for children are also part of the festival, with mask making for the under 12s, and a dinner and show event featuring local teenage singer-songwriter Leo Ercole. To add to the artistic fun, there are also fine art workshops, and interval hours that feature delicious local food and wine.

Catch Dimity Shepherd in Opera Closets Saturday July 27 at 6pm at Flinders Civic Hall. To book for this and all other events, go to flinderfringe.com.au The festival runs from July 26 to 28.

- Julie Houghton

Auditions

■ The Mount Players: A Bunch of Amateurs (by Ian Hislop and Nick Newham) July 27 at 10.00am at The Mountview Theatre, 56 Smith St., Macedon. Director: Craig Lenaine Smith. Audition Bookings: craigls@iinet.net.au

■ The 1812 Theatre: The Laramie Project (by Moises Kaufman) July 28 at 2pm; July 29 at 7pm at The 1812 Theatre (Bakery), 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Liam Mitchenson. Enquiries: mr_mitchinson@ hotmail.com or 0455 078 143

■ Brighton Theatre Company: The Kitchen Sink (by Tom Wells) August 4 at 2.00pm; August 5 at 7.30pm at Brighton Arts and Cultural Centre, Wilson St., Brighton. Director: Keith Hutton. Audition enquiries and bookings: 0430 032 332 or keithhutton55@ gmail.com

■ Frankston Theatre Group: Play On! (by Rick Abbot) August 4 at 2.00pm; August 5 at 7.30pm at ‘The Shed’, Overport Rd., Frankston South. Director: Robert Lister. Audition bookings and enquiries: robertlister087@gmail.com

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Home I’m Darling (by Laura Wade) August 11 at 2pm; August 13 at 7pm at Unit 8/ 417-419 Warrigal Rd., Cheltenham. Director: Susan Rundle. Audition enquiries: theatre@psrundle.com

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: An Ideal Husband (by Oscar Wilde), August 18 and 19 at 7.00pm at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Tim Scott. Audition bookings: timascott56@gmail.com

■ Beaumaris Theatre: Arsenic and Old Lace (by Joseph Kesselring) September 1 and 2 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Peter Newling. Further details and audition bookings: beaumaristheatre.com.au/auditions -Cheryl Threadgold

● Popera host and co-writer Uma Dobia.

Dimity Shepherd

NEW THEATRE COMPANY

■ Executive Producer Andrew Gyopar has announced a new commercial musical theatre company AG Theatre , with a mission to support new Melbourne talent, both on and off stage. The company’s premiere season includes new productions of The Three Little Pigs, Avenue Q and Once.

Andrew says that through his notfor-profit theatre company Theatrical, they have auditioned and interviewed over 1200 Melbourne performers and creatives. "The untapped talent we discovered is part of what led me to create AG Theatre. We hope to bridge the gap between the smaller fringe shows and the nationally touring mainstage musicals, generating more opportunities for the vast amount of highly skilled and educated artists in Australia’s cultural capital.”

The company’s inaugural season will open with the 50-minute children's musical The Three Little Pigs on December 19 at the historic, 783-seat National Theatre Melbourne. The 50-minute children’s musical is written by Stiles and Drewe, the Olivier Award winning minds behind Mary Poppins, Honk! and Peter Pan - A Musical Adventure.

AG Theatre will also stage puppet-filled adults only comedy Avenue Q at The National Theatre Melbourne. Opening on February 21, 2025, Avenue Q will be directed by Pip Mushin (Midnight, The Book of Mormon, Fiddler on the Roof, Evita).

Pip worked with Andrew on Theatrical’s Dogfight in October last year, and has extensive experience as a director and actor in widely acclaimed productions for the stage and screen, dating back to his role as Wayne Burns in Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom movie (1992).

“Andrew has a great vision and passion. I couldn’t be more excited about working together as he launches AG Theatre as the bright, new player in the commercial theatre scene. The quality of these new shows will be something special,” says Pip. “I can’t wait to stage Avenue Q - a three-time Tony Award winner and an absolute crowd pleaser. It’s the perfect show for AG Theatre’s inaugural season.”

AG Theatre’s intimate production of the emotionally captivating musical, Once, will open in April 2025 at Chapel Off Chapel, Prahran.

Andrew Gyopar's independent theatre company Theatrical will stage Legally Blonde The Musical at The National Theatre in July, 2025.

AG Theatre is committed to producing high-quality, innovative and accessible musical theatre with adult tickets for The Three Little Pigs starting at $39. "By bringing fresh and thought-provoking productions to the stage, the company aims to nurture local talent and provide audiences with unforgettable theatrical experiences," says Andrew.

Further details: agtheatre.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Cirque Bon Bon’s rousing show

■ If you love the circus, then if you get the chance do not miss seeing Cirque Bon Bon who gave a rousing performance at the Athenaeum Theatre recently, a performance which lit up a cold and wet Melbourne evening.

Created by former Cirque Du Soleil Assistant Creative Director Ash (Jacks) McCready and choreographer Julieann Nugent, the show is fronted by the comedic emcee Mario, Queen of the Circus who introduces each of the acts.

With his razor-sharp wit and winning ways Mario keeps the audience highly entertained in the gaps between what were some truly jaw-dropping extraordinary feats of physical skill.

Those feats featured a variety of different performers with the program consisting of the following circus artists: the contortionist and foot archery expert Shannen Michaela; cyr wheel specialist Alexandre Lane; aerial hoop contortion and hula hoop artist Ashleigh Roper; skating duo Emma Goh and Scott Lazarevich; juggler Cody Harrington; and aerial straps and mouth hang expert Liam Dummer.

In addition, dancers Jayden Grogan, Holly Soper, Hunter-Jai Clist and Tiara Locke performed a number of choreographed pieces which helped set the scene for each of the six main acts.

Overall the evening proceeded smoothly with never a dull moment, and only the occasional glitch such as when a juggler dropped a ball or when dance steps were missed or, most spectacularly of all, when a selected audience member had an attack of nerves and wisely was replaced by a volunteer.

Overwhelmingly though, the six main acts kept the audience glued to their seats with a virtuosic display of courage and skill, with the standouts of the night being contortionist Michaela, Lane on the cyr wheel and Roper on the hoops.

Produced by Jacs Entertainment and Woodward Productions, Cirque Bon Bon was a wonderful extravaganza and world-class entertainment, sure to delight and amaze all ages.

- Review by Peter Murphy

Longlegs

■ (MA). 101 minutes. Now showing in selected cinemas.

Osgood Perkins (son of Anthony, of Psycho fame) finally returns after a four year break with his fourth film as director, and like his previous efforts, is an imaginatively crafted mood piece.

After a wintery opening sequence where a young girl, alone at home, is visited by a mysterious stranger (Nicolas Cage), we cut to years later (the 90’s), where FBI agent Carter (Blair Underwood) brings in gifted operative Lee Harker (Maika Monroe) , who seems to have an uncanny ability of sensing where a offender may be.

This is shown when Harker is able pinpoint a murderer in a cookiecutter neighbourhood, but is unfortunately unable to prevent a father from slaughtering his family.

This latest event ties in with other cases, where the father has killed his wife and children, then themselves.

Harker feels there is more to these murders than meets the eye, and believes that, no matter how unlikely it seems, someone else is behind the killings.

Left at each crime scene is what appears to be indecipherable messages, signed Longlegs, but Harker successfully decodes them, proving there is a greater power influencing the violent acts.

Emotionally disconnected, and dealing with a troubled relationship with her mother Ruth (Alicia Witt), Harker slowly enters a world of darkness from which she may not return.

Longlegs is deliberately oppressive in its atmosphere, with Perkins wanting to use a slow pace and eerie mood to get under the audience’s skin, and with terrific help from cinematographer Andres Arochi, making his feature film debut), and expert editing, effective music score, strong production and sound design, succeeds.

I do wish that Perkins kept certain plot elements hidden or unknown, instead of explaining a little too much towards the end.

A gallery of impressive performances also elevate the material (which admittedly, is reminiscent of The Silence Of The Lambs, and due to Perkins’ precise direction, Manhunter), with Monroe (It Follows, The Guest), Underwood (Murder In Mississippi, Deep Impact), Witt (Fun, Dune) , and Kiernan Shipka (The Chilling Adventures Of Sabrina, Totally Killer) all delivering the goods.

Of course, special mention has

to go to Cage, who as the title character, gives a totally unhinged performance, and it is one that may divide movie-goers.

I found it appropriate and unsettling, but others may find his turn jars with the overall tone of the film. Longlegs is a horror/thriller that will test the patience of those who want something more visceral and fast-paced, but this is a creepy nightmare made by a very talented filmmaker, and should deservedly find a strong following.

If you do like Longlegs, please check out Perkins’ other films; The Blackcoat’s Daughter (2015) (known here as February), I Am The Pretty Thing That Lives In The House (2016) and Gretel & Hansel (2020), all of which shows he has a very distinctive style.

RATING - ****

Sting

■ (MA). 92 minutes. Now showing in selected cinemas.

Not good enough as horror, not clever enough as knowing genre parody, and not well-written enough to engage as a family drama, Sting fails on pretty much every level, taking what should be a fun premise and turning it into something dull and forgettable.

Set in a run-down New York apartment building, the story centres on Heather (an irritating Penelope Mitchell), who finds a small spider in her dollhouse, and decides to keep it as a pet (she is unaware that the arachnid has come from outer space).

Her stepdad Ethan (Ryan Corr) is trying to connect with the young teen, especially through an inprogress comic book (he is a professional artist), but continually locks horns with Heather.

Feeding the creature bugs, Heather is surprised how quickly the spider grows, but things soon turn nasty when it craves larger prey, and soon the tenants are falling like ninepins.

Writer/director Kiah RoacheTurner (who made the equally disappointing Wyrmwood movies) unsuccessfully mixes various tones, and although an obvious fan of horror/comedies (Little Shop Of Horrors seems a particular inspiration), this ode to previous creature features falls flat.

Instead of Sting, viewers wanting some far superior scares should seek out the French film Infested (available on Apple TV), a much better arachnid outing that truly delivers, with some social commentary to boot.

RATING - **

- Aaron Rourke

● ● Executive Producer and AG Theatre founder, Andrew Gyopar.

Photo: Nicole Cleary

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■ Raymond Stanley Noble was born in 1903 in the Montpelier area of Brighton, England

He was the son of a neurologist and was educated at Dulwich College

Ray studied piano and arranging as a youth at the Royal Academy of Music. He worked as a bank clerk and played with a small band in the evenings.

In his teenage years Ray won an arranging contest organised by Melody Maker music magazine.

He was working with the Lawrence Wright Music Company and also as a pianist arranger with Debroy Somers and his band.

Ray became a staff arranger for the BBC in 1924 and a year later became musical advisor for His Master's Voice Records

He married his childhood sweetheart Gladys, who actually lived next door to him.

In 1929, he became leader of the New Mayfair Dance Orchestra which featured members of many of the top hotel orchestras of the day, but this orchestra only existed inside the HMV recording studios.

In 1930 Al Bowlly recorded his first song with Ray Noble and the New Mayfair Dance Orchestra.

Ray made 500 recordings during his time at HMV with many popular compositions including Love Is The Sweetest Thing, Midnight The Stars and You, Goodnight Sweetheart, Isle of Capri and The Very Thought of You

Magazine

Whatever Happened To ... Ray Noble

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

Ray came up with the idea for Goodnight Sweetheart after he heard a girl whisper it to her boyfriend on a London bus.

In 1934 Ray Noble and Al Bowlly travelled to the United States based on popularity of their recordings.

Ray and Gladys settled into an apartment over looking Central Park. Bandleader Glenn Miller helped Ray organise an American orchestra which at various times in its evolution included such future bandleaders as Claude Thornhill, Charlie Spivak, Pee Wee Irwin, Will Bradley and soloists Bud Freeman and George Van Epps

The Ray Noble Orchestra appeared at the famous Rainbow Room in New York where they

● ● Ray Noble

presented the popular radio program Refreshment Tim e. In 1937 the orchestra disbanded and Ray and Gladys went to Hollywood

He had been making appearances in many films during the 1930s but began acting playing comedic English characters.

He was in A Damsel In Distress with Fred Astaire, Joan Fontaine, George Burns and Gracie Allen and acted in other films such as Pride of The Yankees and Here We Go Again.

Ray joined Edger Bergen and ‘Charlie McCarthy’ in the radio series The Chase and Sanborn Hour as musical director and composer.

He worked with Buddy Clarke and is one of the back up singers on two hit songs Linda and I'll Dance at Your Wedding

Ray Noble retired in 1956 and settled in Santa Barbara. Ray and Gladys moved to Jersey in the Channel Islands in the late 1960s.

Over the years his compositions such as The Very Thought of You and Love is the Sweetest Thing have been used in films and television productions. Midnight the Stars and You can be heard in the 1980 film The Shining and was the closing theme on 3AW's Nightline with Bruce Mansfield and Philip Brady Ray Noble died of cancer in London in 1978 at age 74.

In 1996 he was inducted into The Songwriters Hall of Fame. Ray Noble had an amazing career as a bandleader, composer, arranger, singer and actor - he has left us with some beautiful music to remember him by.

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

BOTANICALLY DRAWN AT BURRINJA GALLERY

Open House

■ Young Guard community leaders of the Russian House are conducting an Open House Festival on July 27-28.

“This is a local heritage listed building with a great history. We want to honour it with a massive theatrical guided tours as well as a visual art exhibition opening,” says Elena Strrelnikova.

118 Greeves St, Fitzroy. https:// openhousemelbourne.org/ event/russian-house/

Seeking Solace

■ Seeking Solace is a new album, commissioned by Hush, to raise awareness about the importance of women's mental health research, treatment and education.

Nat Bartsch, Ben Northey and Professor Catherine Crock first met several years ago to explore ideas knowing the right project would present itself.

“When we had the extraordinary privilege of being invited to visit Cabrini Women's Mental Health inpatient hospital by my dear friend Jayashri Kulkarni, we knew something special would happen,” Prof. Crock said.

“The Hush composers and I spent time listening and talking with women and with the staff learning about what matters to them in their mental health journey.

“We are grateful to the patients and staff at Cabrini Elsternwick for the stories that they shared with us and hope this album will raise awareness about the importance of women's mental health research, treatment and education.”

Nat Bartschhas produced this album and transformed it into a stunning, immersive collection featuring some of Australia’s leading pianists/composers. There are new works on Seeking Solace by Thomas Rouch, Sophie Hutchings, Luke Howard, Mirla, Petra Salsjö, Pat Jaffe, Fia Fiell, Leahannah Ceff, and duo Jack Vanzet (Thrupence) and Josh Hooke

Botanical Drawn from Nature

Tghis is an exhibition of contemporary botanical art by renowned Victorian illustrators including Amanda Ahmed, Craig Lidgerwood, David Reynolds, Dianne Emery, Deb Chirnside, Janet Matthews, Jessie Rose Ford, John Pastoriza Pinot, Mali Moir, Margo Heeley, Martha Iserman, Mart aSalamon, Miffy Gilbert and Simon Deere. With works by Celia Rosser.

Exhibition opens July 27 and closes September 22.

★

Botanical The Initiation of Australian Botany Sections from Bank’s Florilegium

The Florilegium is a record of plants collected by Joseph Banks and his team on Captain James Cook’s first voyage around the world.

In an extraordinary effort, over 700 copperplates were eventually produced for printing.

Although intended as a contribution to science, the Florilegium was never published in Bank’s lifetime, and it took another 200 years until the engravings were printed for the first time in colour as intended. A selection of these will be on display.

Exhibition opens July 27 and closes September 22.

★

Shapes of Nature – Trish Cambell aerie gallery

Strong structural shapes, a sense of story and a sense of drama contribute to interpretations in Trish’s conceptualised landscape painting. Awareness of our traditional lands informs her work as she explores the marks of intrusion imposition on ancient lands. She is inspired by found patterns, lines, shapes and textures from surfaces in the natural and manmade environments.

Exhibition closes Sunday August 25.

Burrinja Gallery

351 Glenfern Rd., Upwey

Open House

■ Monash University will be opening a variety of its buildings throughout Caulfield Campus.

Both new and old award-winning projects will be open for attendees, with opportunities to hear from indus-

The Arts

try leaders about their projects throughout the campus. Monash University of Art (MUMA) will also be opening its doors for attendees to explore the vast collection in between tours.

Opening Saturday July 28. 12.15 pm– 1.15pm. Monash University of Art (MUMA) Building F, Caulfield Campus Princes Hwy, Caulfield.

At Hawthorn

Look Up – Quart Studio

Explore Look Up by Quart Studio, a community exhibition that transcends the digital landscape to rediscover the beauty of the world around us/ Through the lens of artists with disability, this exhibition captures the profound moments that unfold when we disconnect from our phones and engage with our surroundings.

Look Up traverses the artists unique perspectives on the changes and joys of navigating life beyond the screen.

From the intricate details of the natural world to the nuances of human connection, each piece offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of experiences that shape our lives.

Exhibition opens Saturday August 10 and closes Saturday September 21. Town Hall Gallery 360 Burwood Rd. Hawthorn.

■ In a very personal, raw interview currently appearing in Hollywood lifestyle mags, actress Sharon Stone has released alarming facts about her stroke in 2001 that almost claimed her life , and all her savings.

As Sharon lay in hospital she made slow progress. These days Sharon leads a relatively normal family life , but no offers of film appearances.

While in hospital medical costs mounted, as did purchases, made without her authority, shaved $18 million from a savings account Sharon had put aside as a comfort barrier for later life for her family.

Sharon claims: “I was down to zero in the Bank, now I live for purpose.”

Due diligence, Mr Dillon

■ Groundswell gathering pace is the rumor that Katie Perry may perform at this season's AFL Grand Final. Sounds like a good idea, but obviously without proper due diligence of the bad blood Katie Perry (the singer) has forced upon herself in Australia.

Perry sued a Sydney fashion designer who was first to register the Katy Perrie name as a brand name that was her birth name.

The dispute went to Court and our Katie was the victor. Regardless, singer Katie kept up the bully tactics to cease and desist. In other words, taking no notice of Australian law.

The AFLmight be dicing with damage to their brand as supporters of our designer gal intend to stage demonstrations plus a PR blitz if the US singer puts a step inside the MCG.

Memo Andrew Dillon (AFL Chief), cancel any thought of engaging Katie from America and select from the abundance of Aussie talent. Or pay the consequences.

Tip toe through legalities

■ Have you noticed how radio broadcasters are super cautious when they take listener calls in reference to the troubled times we currently face? he last thing stations want is to contravene the Broadcasting Act and face almighty fines about matters yet to be heard in Court.

Fly on the wall

■ There are rumours flying around all three commercial TV channels in Australia. The Newsroom at Seven is alive with comings and goings, who's been sued and counter sueing. Then there's new content like the introduction of a Horoscope within Seven News bulletins.

At Nine, staff have issued a no confidence motion in senior management. Not to be left out of all the uncertainty, Channel Ten staff wonder if the Australian operation will be sold, to whom, and if so, will HQ be moved to Melbourne? Never a dull moment.

Mick isn’t joking

■ Lgendry comic Mick Molloy went off his rocker over the cost of the iconic sausage in a blanket of bread at recent Vivid concert held in Sydney Would you believe $8.50, compared with the Democracy sausage sold in Melbourne for $3.50 And Melburnians reckon food prices are sky high ! - John O’Keefe

Sharon Stone’s stroke

with Peter Kemp

OK. With John O’Keefe

- Peter Kemp

Across Across Down Down

2. Supervisory (position)

7. Pays brief visit (5,2)

11. Rule

17. Yacht pole

18. Untruth

19. Spanish cheer

20. Ellipse

21. Hangover symptom

22. Decreased

23. Woeful

26. Unfilled space

28. Citizen soldiers

29. Adolescent

31. Existence

34. World computer link

36. Archfiend

39. Female equines

41. Roused

43. Suspension of workers (3-3)

46. Morocco's capital

47. Writer, Emily ...

49. Frolicked

51. Pharaohs' tombs

52. Repaints (car)

53. Short-sighted

54. Lieu

55. Flip in air

56. Ill-treatment

61. Featured musicians

64. Nautical speed unit

65. Fellows

66. Extending

67. ... or nay

69. Possessor

71. US coins

74. Not apparent

76. Penny-pincher

78. Elderly horse

79. Phlegm condition

81. Anti-terrorist squad (1,1,1)

83. Wigwam

84. Aunt's husband

86. Scented purple flower

89. Desert illusions

90. Humility

93. Roll (dice)

94. Sailor's yes (3,3)

97. Made (wage)

100. From India or China

101. Saviour

103. Subway

106. Long letter

108. Short-circuited

109. Mistake (4-2)

110. Untied

111. Islamic governors

112. Renowned

113. Power group

115. Salon worker (4,7)

118. Minor roads (4,7)

121. Be without

124. Early harps

128. Hickory tree nut

129. Aimed

130. Cosmos scientists

134. Brings up (child)

135. Excessively fat

136. Overshadow

137. Fragrance

138. Existing

139. Abandon

140. Alluring

143. Natural disaster, ... wave

144. Vote in

147. Film

150. Extinct bird

151. White flower (7,4)

155. Not justified

157. Chime

158. Smell

159. Concur

162. Snapshots

164. Harrowing trial

167. Doctor

168. Rid of lice

169. Comfy seat (4,5)

172. Journalists' credits (2-5)

173. Polite

174. Unassuming

177. Deprive of food

180. Islands

181. Flight from reality

183. Reconstructed

184. Notorious gangster (2,6)

186. Potato variety

187. In vain, to no ...

188. Fulfilled (demand)

191. Actress, ... Diaz

195. See next page (1,1,1)

197. Megastars

198. Earphones

200. Idiocy

202. Middle-distance runner

203. Weeding implement

205. Protrudes (6,3)

206. ... de Cologne

208. Pleasant

209. Fireproof material

212. Funeral guests

215. US Mormon state

217. Feeble

220. Capital of Iowa, Des ...

222. Hiding game

224. Close watch (5,3)

226. Fries lightly

228. Wife, the ...

229. Bake (meat)

230. Crazier

232. Check

235. La Scala city

236. Dallas is there

238. Well-meaning person (2-6)

241. Spot

242. Admonish

243. Gain through will

244. Singer, ... Horne

246. Require

252. Mental stress

253. Renounce throne

254. Eyelid swelling

255. Focal point

256. Rug

257. East European

258. Opposition

259. Shipping route (3,4)

260. School project

1. Right on target (4-2)

2. Dr Jekyll's alter ego (2,4)

3. Ark builder

4. Moves (towards)

5. Recognise

6. Peru beasts

7. Battery segment

8. Grass

9. Weary sound

10. Xmas

11. Responds

12. Contraptions

13. Crocodile relatives

14. Taverns

15. Small lump

16. Wine jug

24. Trophies

25. Addressed crowd

26. Shaking motion

27. Listing articles

28. Actors Gibson or Brooks

30. Lamb's mother

32. Lack of aptitude

33. Instructors

35. Lament

37. Defence force

38. Beastliest

39. Raider

40. Glimpse

42. Map guide

44. Chooses

45. Thrifty

47. Long-snouted monkey

48. Ice-free Norwegian port

50. Rounded roof

53. Ponder

57. Freedom from guilt

58. Bare

59. Rocket ship crew

60. Talks keenly

62. Mountaineer's tool (3,3)

63. Oppress

65. Judi Dench stars in ... Henderson

Presents

68. Aviator, ... Johnson

70. Vigilantly

72. Admission

73. Old photo colour

74. Open sore

75. Dessert, ... caramel

77. Kenya & Tanzania region (4,6)

80. Letter jumbles

82. Italian city

85. Come together

87. Daunted

88. Prince Edward, ... of Wessex

91. Biblical garden

92. Auction

95. Containing nothing

96. Upwardly mobile young people

98. Ripped apart, torn ...

99. Naked models

102. Group loyalty (6,2,5)

104. Nimble-fingered

105. Helps

107. Piercingly

113. Flowered

114. Requested from menu

116. US cotton state

117. Betrayal crime

119. Cavalryman

120. Codswallop

122. Accomplish

123. US motorbike stuntman, Evel ...

125. Extract (metal)

126. In the Arctic Circle

127. Specifically (2,3)

128. Sacred song

130. Astern

131. Weight unit

132. Record label (1,1,1)

133. Droop

141. Pseudonyms

142. US Rhode Island resort

145. Lengthy (4-6)

146. Droll plays

148. Totally preoccupies

149. Unable to read and write

152. Behaved

153. Louts

154. Finish

155. Great Bear constellation, ... Major

156. Jockey

160. Congers or morays

161. Native American tribespeople

163. Stitched garment edges

165. Cain & ...

166. Vending machine

167. Hitler book, ... Kampf

170. Vile act

171. Largest Turkish city

175. Leaves out

176. Praise highly

178. Panic

179. Current (permit)

182. Prison occupant

185. Progressed (4,2)

188. Names used wrongly

189. Most easily offended

190. Cigar dust

192. Almond biscuit

193. Most corroded

194. Flightless bird

195. Trite remark

196. Band

199. Induces

201. Made amends

204. Rowing aids

207. In present condition (2,2)

210. Companies

211. Samples (wine)

213. Coral bank

214. Safari

216. Large yacht

217. Scavenge

218. Tardiest

219. Your school, ... mater

221. Slip up

223. German or Greek

225. Eastern veils

227. In the past, long ...

228. Russian space station

231. Putrefy

233. Four score

234. Toughen (steel)

235. Liqueur, crème de ...

237. Afternoon nap

239. Most senior

240. Enfold

245. Urges on, ... up

247. Junior Scouts

248. Epic tale

249. Notion

250. Highest point

251. Windmill arm

Queenscliff 2024

■ The annual Queenscliff Music Festival is scheduled for November 20-22..

Kasey Chambers is just one of the headline acts scheduled to perform along with a number of local and international acts. The festival has been going since 1997.

Jazz By The Ocean

■ Inverloch will come alive from August 2- 4 with the annual Jazz Festival

The line-up promises a musical journey through classic jazz, soulful melodies and smooth contemporary beats that will have you foot-tapping, finger-snapping and grooving in your seat, says their media release. The program will stretch across five indoor venues all within an easy stroll of each other. More info: https://www.facebook.com/ inverlochjazz

Davidson Bros.

■ Bluegrass brothers Hamish and Lachlan Davidson will take to the stage at Humdingers Frankston on Saturday, August 10.

The multi -award winners will be supported by Misty Harlowe on the night. Showtime 8pm.

Tickets at https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1255827 - Rob Foenander

● ● Darren James of 3AW was guest speaker at the Marquee Entertainment Club luncheon last week. Peter ‘Grubby’ Stubbs will speak in August.

RECLAIM THE CRONE

■ Currently playing at Theatre Works Explosives Factory venue in St Kilda, Reclaim The Crone is a bold, challenging piece of devised theatre that deserves an audience.

Premiering last year at the Drift Festival on the Mornington Peninsula, Reclaim The Crone is not easy to summarise.

It is no “well-made play” with the traditional three-act structure but, instead, consists of a series of images or tableau vivant.

Scenes of anger, sadness and joy are played out while other scenes are abstract and open to interpretation.

Video recordings projected into the space, along with songs and poetry, add layers of complexity to the audience's experience.

Three of the four performersGabrielle Leah New, Helen Smith and Karen Berger – have devised the work, while Carol Smith is a creative producer.

All four should be proud of what they have achieved as this evening of imagistic theatre captivates as well as challenges.

A slightly odd note is struck right at the end when a declamatory didactic statement is made about Aboriginal Australia. Otherwise the script is eloquent and dramatic.

Performing with New, Smith and Berger is Frank van de Ven as the

Crossword Solution No 32

single male figure, often in the role of patriarchal oppressor.

All four actors give strong committed performances which are clearly heavily influenced by the Japanese Butoh style of theatre.

While at times too solemn, the acting overall works best when a sense of play and discovery is evident.

As director, Gabrielle Leah New has done well in drawing robust performances from her actors and pulling the many different scenes together into a cohesive whole.

An integral part of the show, the evocative musique concrete electronic soundscape of composer/ sound artist Norman Skipp also needs acknowledging.

To fully reclaim the archetype of the crone will no doubt be a long and arduous journey but, as part of this journey, Reclaim The Crone is a wonderful heartfelt step forward.

Venue: Theatre Works, Explosives Factory, Rear Laneway 67 Inkerman Street, St Kilda

Dates and times: At 7.30pm until July 27 (Plus 5pm matinee on July 27)

Duration: 1 hour

Tickets: $20-45

Bookings: https:// www.eventbrite.com.au/e/reclaimthe-crone-tickets-774943024447

- Review by Peter Murphy

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

● ● ● ● Helen Smith in Reclaim the Crone. Photo: Leonie Van Eyke

WEEKEND’S LOCAL FOOTBALL MATCH RESULTS

Amateurs

■ Premier Men’s. Old Scotch 10.14 (74) d St Bernards 5.9 (39). Old Xaverians 13.16 (94) d Fitzroy 7.3 (45). St Kevins 7.6 (48) d University Blues 3.7 (25). Old Brighton 9.19 (73) d Old Melburnians 4.6 (3). University Blacks v Collegians.

■ Premier Men’s Reserves. Old Scotch 7.12 (54) d St Bernards 4.10 (34). Old Xaverians 12.12 (84) d Fiotzroy 4.6 (30). St Kevins 8.17 (65) d University Blues 8.7 (55). Old Brighton 16.7 (103) d Old Melburnians 2.9 (21). University Blacks v Collegians.

■ Premier Men’s Thirds. St Kevins 12.7 (79) d Fitzroy 4.4 (28). Old trinity d Old brighton, by forfeit. Old Scotch 15.15 (105) d St Bernards 3.10 (28). Old Xaverians d Uni Blues, by forfeit.

■ Premier Under 19. De La Salle 5.12 (42) d Old brighton 2.9 (21). Uni Blues 9.14 (68) d beaumaris 3.3 (21). Old Xaverians 26.16 (172) d Caulfield Grammarians 3.2 (2). Old Scotch 8.9 (57) d St Bedes/Mentone 7.4 (46). St Kevins 10.10 (70) d Williamstown CYMS 3.8 (26).

■ Premier B Men’s. Beaumaris 11.10 (76) d Caulfield Grammarians 9.8 (62). Old Haileybury 5.18 (48) d St Bedes/Mentone Tigers 5.11 (41). Old Trinity 13.16 (94) d Old Ivanhoe 7.10 (52). De La Salle 12.9 (81 d Williamstown CYMS 7.7 (49). Old Geelong 9.6 (60) d Old Camberwell 7.10 (52).

■ Premier C Men’s. AJAX 11.8 974) d Parkdale Vultures 8.7 (55). Hampton Rovers 13.11 (89) d Old Carey 5.12 (42). Monash Blues 18.4 (112) d Narcellin 8.10 (58). Mazenod 11.18 (84) d PEGS 5.4 (34). Glen Eira/Old McKinnon 13.13 (91) d Oakleigh 7.10 (52).

■ Premier C Men’s Reserves. AJAX 7.12 (54) d Parkdale Vultures 4.1 (25). Hampton Rovers 12.12 (84) d old Carey 2.2 (14). Marcellin 14.12 (96) d Monash Blues 1.4 (10). Mazenod 20.15 (135) d PEGS 2.2 (14). Oakleigh 5.14 (44) drew with Glen Eira/Old McKinnon 6.8 (44).

■ Division 1 Men’s. Prahran 8.10 (58) d UHS-VU 4.6 (30). Therry Penola 4.7 (31) d Parkside 3.8 (26). Old Peninsula 13.9 (87) d kew 9.15 (69). Ormond 13.13 (91) d Preston Bullants 3.7 (25). Old Yarra Cobras 7.9 (51) d West Brunswick 3.11 (29).

■ Division 1 Men’s Reserves. Prahran 11.9 (75) d UHS-VU 4.9 (33). Parkside 16.14 (110) d Therry Penola 1.2 (8). Kew 19.19 (133) d Old Peninsula 1.2 (8). Ormond 25.10 (160) d Preston Bullants 6.6 (42). West Brunswick 10.10 (70) d Old Yarra Cobras 6.4 (40).

■ Division 1 Thirds. Old Xaverians 5.19 (49) d University Blacks 6.3 (39). Old Geelong d Collegians, by forfeit. St Kevins v Ajax. Fitzroy: Bye.

■ Division 1 Under 19. Old Haileybury 11.3 (69) d Old Carey 7.11 (53). St Bernards 23.18 (156) d Glen Eira/Old McKinnon 1.2 (8). Hampton Rovers 14.17 (101) d Old Xaverians 8.6 (54). Fitzroy d Old Melburnians, by forfeit.

■ Division 2 Men’s. Brunswick 11.13 (79) d Aquinas 10.7 967). MHSOB 9.13 (67) d Wattle Park 6.11 (47). St Mary’s Salesian 11.8 (74) drew with Bulleen Templestowe 11.8 (74). Whitefriars 10.14 (74) d Elsternwick 7.12 (54). South Melbourne Districts 12.14 (86) d Hawthorn 8.4 (52).

■ Division 2 Men’s Reserves. Brunswick 3.4 (22) d Aquinas 2.1 (13). MHSOB 25.15 9165) d Wattle Park 2.2 (14). St Marys Salesian 20.24 (144) d Bulleen Templestowe 4.2 (26). Whitefriars 4.11 (35) d Elsternwick 2.6 (18). South Melbourne 11.18 (84) d Hawthorn 2.6 (18).

■ Division 2 Men’s Thirds. North. Parkside 6.8 (44) d Richmond Central 3.4 (22). Old Xaverians 120.14 (74) d Marcellin 6.7 (43). Masala 8.15 (63) d Old Camberwell 0.2 (2). Old Carey 6.12 (48) d Kew 3.9 (27).

■ Division 2 Men’s Thirds South. De La Salle 9.14 (68) d hampton Rovers 4.1 (25). Mentone Panthers 9.11 (65) d Old Brighton 6.7 (43). Ajax d Old Scotch, by forfeit. Glen Eira/Old McKinnon 10.6 (66) d Williamstown CYMS 8.8 (56).

■ Division 2 Under 19. University Blues 17.14 (116) d University Blacks 0.2 (2). Parkdale Vultures 11.16 (82) d St Kevins 4.2 (26). Oakleigh 7.8 (50) d Parkside 3.7 (25). Old Camberwell 14.12 (96) d Old Trinity 3.8 (26). St Bedes/Mentone d Old Ivanmhoe, by forfeit.

■ Division 3 Men’s. St Johns 13.7 (85) d North Brunswick 3.5 (23). Canterbury 6.11 (47) d Richmond central 6.10 (46). Albert Park 9.15 (69) d box Hill North 10.6 (66). Eley Park 9.6 (60) d La Trobe University 7.12 (54). Chadstone v Swinburne University. Power House: Bye.

■ Division 3 Men’s Reserves. North Brunswick 9.13 (67) d StJohns 1.4 (10). Canterbury 5.5 (35) d Richmond Central 3.14 (32). Box Hill North 14.10 (94) d Albert Park 5.12 (42). La Trobe 19.19 (133) d Eley Park 1.2 (8). Swinburne University 11.15 (81) d Chad-stone 3.3 (21). Power House: Bye.

■ Division 3 Men’s Thirds North. Swinburne 10.16 (76) d old yarra Cobras 3.6 (24). Whitefrairs 13.14 (92) d Old Xaverians 3.10 (28). MHSOB 7.22 (64) d Box Hill North 9.3 (57). Marcellin 15.18 (108) d Canterbury 1.4 (10). Old Ivanhoe 11.11 (77) d UHSVU 3.3 (21). Hawthorn 11.9 (75) d West Bruns-wick 4.21 (45).

■ Division 3 Men’s Thirds South. Oakleigh 6.11 (47) d Elsternwick 4.11 (35). St Marys Salesian 14.14 (98) d Masala 1.1 (7). Parkdale 11.31 (97) d Monash Blues 0.2 (2). South Melbourne 7.9 (51) d Ormond 4.4 (28). Wattle Park v Mazenod.

■ Division 3 Under 19. Ormond 4.6 (30) d Preston 3.11 (29). Kew 7.11 (53) d St Bernards 5.11 (41). Collegians 7.11 (53) d Monash Blues 3.5 (23). Mazenod 12.10 (82) d PEGS 3.2 (20).

■ Division 4 Under 19. Caulfield Grammarians 18.27 (135) d MHSOB 5.3 (33). St Marys Salesian 5,.12 (42) d Beaumaris 5.6 (36). De La Salle v Glen Eira/Old McKinnon. Williams-town CYMS 20.16 (136) d St Kevins 6.8 (44). Therry Penola 17.16 (118) d Old Xaverians 6.8 (44). Bulleen Templestowe: Bye.

Eastern

■ Premier Seniors. Blackburn 24.15 (159) d Norwood 5.3 (33). East Ringwood 15.6 (96) Noble Park 11.7 (73).

■ Premier Reserves. Blackburn 28.24 (192) d Noirwood 0.0 90). East Ringwood 8.9 (57) d Noble Park 3.4 (22).

■ Premier Under 19.5. Noble Park 8.11 (59) d East Ringwood 8.9 (57). Blackburn 17.18 (120) d Norwood 4.5 (29).

■ Division 3 Seniors. Coldstream 15.5 (95) d Warrandyte 1.2 (8). Fairpark 10.5 (65) d Ferntree Gully 8.8 (56). Knox 6.11 (47) d Donvale 6.6 (42). Surrey Park 11.18 (84) d Silvan 8.6 (54). Oakleigh District 6.4 (40) d Upper Ferntree Gully 5.7 (37).

■ Division 3 Reserves. Coldstream 5.6 (36) d Warrandyte 5.4 (34). Ferntree Gully 6.7 (43) d Fairpark 5.8 (38). Donvale 11.10 976) d Knox 1.5 (11). Surrey Park 10.9 (69) d Silvan 2.13 (25). Upper Ferntreed Gully 8.2 (50) d Oakleigh District 4.3 (27).

■ Division 3 Under 19.5. Knox 11.4 (70) d Donvale 4.6 (30). Warrandyte 7.11 (53) d Coldstream 1.9 (15). Upper Ferntree Gully 10.5 (65) d Ferntree Gully 0.8 (8). Fairpark: Bye.

■ Division 4 Seniors. Chirnside Park 10.6 (66) d Kilsyth 7.6 (48). Forest Hill 10.15 (75) d Nunawading 10.6 (66). Scoresby 14.22 (106) d Croydon North MLOC 1.4 (10). Whitehorse Pioneers: Bye.

■ Division 4 Reserves. Chirnside Park 6.10 (58) d Kilsyth 2.1 (13). Nunawading 6.6 (42) d Forest Hill 1.9 (15). Scoresby 10.18 (78) d Croydon North MLOC 4.2 (26). Whitehorse Pioneers: Bye.

■ Division 4 Under 19.5. South Belgrave d Mitcham, by forfeit. Blackburn 14.7 (91) d Ferntree Gully/South Croydon 9.5 (59). Chrinside park 4.6 (30) d Wantirna South 3.7 (25). Kilsyth 8.12 (60) d Berwick 5.4 (34). Scoresby: Bye.

Essendon

■ Premier Division. East Keilor 18.12 (120) d Avondale Heights 7.4 (46). Strathmore 5.12 (42) d Greenvale 3.4 (22). Keilor 14.10 (94) d Pascoe Vale 7.11 (53). Aberfeldie 10.12 (72) d Deer Park 6.9 (45). Airport West 5.11 (41) d Essendon Doutta Stars 2.11 (23).

■ Premier Reserves. East Keilor 9.12 (66) d Avondale heights 5.3 (33). Strathmore 9.12 (66) d Greenvale 1.5 (11). Keilor 15,.15 (1205) d Pascoe Vale 5.5 (35). Aberfeldie 27.19 (181) d Deer Park 0.0 (0). Airport West 9.3 (57) d Essendon Doutta Stars 7.7 (49).

■ Premier Under 18.5. Avondale Heightd 9.7 (61) d East Keilor 4.4 (28). Strathmore 16.7 (103) d Greenvale 1.2 (8). Keilor 8.5 (53) d Pascoe Vale 5.6 (36). Maribyrnong Park 12.10 (82) d Airport West 3.3 (20).

Aberfeldie: Bye.

■ Division 1 Seniors. Hillside 14.14 (98) d Craigieburn 4.2 (26). St Alabns 11.17 (83) d Keilor Park 4.2 (26). Maribyrnong Park 23.14 (152) d Tullamarine 6.6 (42). Moonee Valley 8.14 (62) d Rupertswood 7.11 (53). West Coburh 18.13 (121) d Roxburgh Park 9.5 (59).

Oak Park: Bye.

■ Division 1 Reserves. Hillside 25.29 (179) d Craigieburn 0.0 (0). St Alabns 12.10 (82) d Keilor Park 3.3 (21). Maribyrnong Park v Tullamarine. Moonee Valley 14.16 (I100) d Rupertswood 2.6 (18). West Coburg 16.15 (111) d Roxburgh Park 4.4 (28). Oak Park: Bye.

■ Division 1 Thirds. Aberfeldie 15.12 (102) d Greenvale 0.5 (5). Keilor d Oak Park, by forfeit. Hillside 7.10 (52) d Strathmore 4.1 (25). Maribyrnong Park d Glenroy (disqualified).

■ Division 1 Under 18.5. Coburg Districts 12.13 (85) d Oak Park 2.4 (16). Hillside 5.6 (36) d Craigieburn 2.9 (21). Moonee Valley 8.17 (65) d St Albans 2.2 (14). Essendon Doutta Stars 10.6 (66) d Tullamarine 2.10 (22).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Coburg Distruicts 9.9 (63) d Sunbury Kangaroos 5.12 (42). Taylors Lakes 10.13 (73) d Hadfield 4.4 (28). Glenroy 13.9 987) d Westmeadows 11.7 (73). Burnside Heights 13.12 (90) d Northern Saints 5.9 (39). East Sunbury: Bye.

■ Division 2 Reserves. Coburg Districts 10.5 (65) d Sunbury Kangaroos 8.12 (60). Taylors Lakes d hadfield, by forfeit. Westmeadows 11.5 (71) d Glenroy 5.5 (35). Burnside Heights v Northern Saints. East Sunbury: Bye.

■ Division 2 Thirds. Airport West 10.11 (71) d Northern Saints 4.3 (27). Avondale Heights 13.16 (94) d Roxburgh Park 0.1 (1). Hillside 6.5 (41) d Sunbury Kangaroos 1.7 (13). St Albans 120.5 (65) d Taylors Lakes 3.7 (25).

■ Division 2 Under 18.5. Hadfield 14.13 (97) d Taylors lakes/Moonee Valley 3.2 (20). Keilor 17.14 (116) d East Sunbury 0.0 (0). Strathmore 13.15 (93) d Sunbury Kangaroos 2.6 (18). Glenroy 6.15 (51) d Maribyrnong Park 7.8 (50). Northern Saints 4.6 (30) d Burnside Heights 2.3 (15). Aberfeldie: Bye.

Morn. Peninsula

■ Division 1 Seniors. Dromana 9.7 (61) d Frankston Bombers 4.4 (28). Frankston YCW 7.7 (49) d Red Hill 4.8 (32). Mornington 8.9 (57) d Langwarrin 8.7 (55). Mt Eliza 6.123 (49) d Sorrento 5.10 (40). Pines 6.8 (44) d Rosebud 6.8 (44).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Dromana 10.10 (70) d Frankston Bombers 0.3 (3). Frankston YCW 2.7 (19) d Red Hill 2.4 (16). Langwarrin 12.7 (79) d Mornington 1.7 (13). Mt Eliza 15.8 (98) d Sorrento 2.5 (17). Pines v Rosebud.

■ Division 1 Under 19. Red Hill 2.11 (23) d Frankston YCW 2.8 (20). Mornington 6.9 (45) d Langwarrin 6.5 (41). Mt Elizas 21.12 (138) d Sorrento 1.3 (9). Pines v Rosebud. Dromana: Bye.

■ Division 2 Seniors. Edithvale Aspendale 18.8 (116) d Bonbeach 3.10 (28). Chelsea 10.9 (69) d Crib Point 5.8 (38). Devon Meadows 12.18 (90) d Seaford 7.4 (46). Hastings

10.8 (78) d Karingal 7.10 (52). Somerville 12.16 (88) d Pearcedaler 3.11 (29). Rye 7.13 (55) d Tyabb 2.8 (20).

■ Division 2 Reserves. Edithvale-Aspendale 18.10 (118) dBonbeach 2.4 (16). Chelsea 5.2 (32) d Crib Point 4.2 (26). Seaford 3.10 928) d Devon Meadows 2.5 (17). Hastings 9.11 (65) d Karingal 3.7 (25). Somerville 7.8 (50) d Pearcedale 3.4 (22). Tyabb11.9 (75) d Rye 2.4 (16).

■ Division 2 Under 19. Bonbeach 9.13 (67) d Edithvale-Aspendale 3.4 (22). Seaford 13.13 (91) d Devon Meadows 4.4 (28). Crib Point 6.9 (45) d Karingal 3.5 (23). Pearcedale 5.11 (41) d Somerville 3.6 (24). Rye 67 d Tyabb 46, by forfeit.

Northern

■ Division 1 Seniors. North Heidelberg 9.11 (65) d Macleod 7.5 (47). Heidelberg 16.9 (105) d Bundoora 4.4 (28). Montmorency 10.9 (69) d Hurstbridge 7.12 (54). Banyule 8.11 (59) d Greensborough 5.5 (35). West PrestonLakeside 8.10 (58) d Eltham 3.10 (28).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Montmorency 10.14 (74) d Hurstbridge 8.6 (54). Eltham 6.8 (44) d West Preston-Lakeside 3.15 (33). Heidelberg v Bundoora. Greensborough 9.9 (63) d Banyule 7.4 (46). North Heidelberg 12.10 (82) d Macleod 10.5 (65).

■ Division 1 Under 19.5. Heidelberg 8.7 (55) d North Heidelberg 7.9 (51). Eltham 12.9 (81) d Banyule 9.23 (56). Diamond Creek 9.8 (62) d Montmorency 7.1 (43). Greensborough: Bye.

■ Division 3 Seniors. Kilmore 11.11 (77) d Heidelberg West 5.9 (39). Fitzroy Stars 8.7 ()55) d Mernda 3.6 (24). Old Eltham Collegians 7.10 (52) d Ivanhoe 7.4 (46). Old Paradians 20.17 (137) d Reservoir 1.7 (13). Bye: Epping, Kinglake, Lalor. ■ Division 3 Reserves. Fitzroy Stars 7.,11 (53) d Merna 7,.5 (47). Kilmore 10.11 (712) d Heidelberg West 4.8 (32). Old Eltham Collegians 126.13 (109) d Ivanhoer 3.6 (24). Old Paradians 13.15 (93) d Reservoir 3.2 (20). Bye: Epping, Kinglake, Lalor.

■ Division 3 Under 19.5. Diamond Creek 5.10 940) d Greensborough 4.8 (32). Bundoora 6.4 (40) d Old Paradians 5.6 (36). Macleod 13.5 (83) d Mernda 3.2 (20). Banyule 12.12 (84) d Panton Hill 2.4 (16).

Outer East

■ Premier Division Seniors. Emerald 15.4 (94) d Pakenham 9.6 (60). Wandin 8.10 (58) d Woori Yallock 3.4 (22). Narre Warren 7.8 (50) d Officer 4.10 (34).

■ Premier Division Reserves. Pakenham 4.3 (27) d Emerald 2.4 (16). Woori Yallock 3.1 (19) d Wandin 2.6 (18). Narre Warren 8.9 (57) d Officer 3.9 (27).

■ Division 1 Seniors. Yea 6.9 (45) d Powelltown 5.11 (41). Warburton Millgrove 10.13 (73) d Belgrave 5.7 (37). Seville 22.13 (145) d Yarra Glen 7.6 (48). Healesville 10.18 (78) d Alexandra 6.12 (48). Yarra Junction: Bye.

■ Division 1 Reserves. Yea 5.8 (38) d Powelltown 2.3 (15). Belgrave 5.5 (35) d Warburton Millgrove 1.6 (12). Seville 15.9 (99) d Yarra Glen 0.2 (2). Healesville 10.16 (76) d Alexandra 0.4 (4). Yarra Junction: Bye. ■ Under 19 Boys. Pakenham v Gembrook Cockatoo. Narre Warren 6.6 (42) d Officer 3.2 (20).

■ Under 18 Boys. Olinda Ferny Creek 11.17 (83) d Seville 3.6 (24). Healesville 5.10 (40) d Upwey Tecoma 2.5 (17). Woori Yallock 9.14 (68) d Mt Evelyn 1.1 (7).

■ Women’s Division 1. Upwey Tecoma 1.4 (10) d Belgrave 1.2 (8). Healesville 2.4 (16) d Berwick Springs 1.3 (9). Pakenham 3.1 (19) d Olinda Ferny Creek 1.4 (10).

■ Women’s Division 2. Wandin 6.6 (42) d Emerald 1.7 (13). Officer 5.10 (40) d Warburton Wesburn 0.0 (0). Monbulk 13.9 (87) d Thornton Eildon 0.0 (0). Woori Yallock d Seville, by forfeit.

SCORES FROM WEEKEND MATCHES

Southern

■ Division 1 Seniors. Dingley 17.18 (118)

d Chelsea Heights 5.7 (37). Cranbourne Eagles 7.9 (51) d Mordialloc 1.2 (8). East Brighton 9.12 (66) d Bentleigh 6.4 (40). Springvale Districts 13.15 (93) d Port Melbourne Colts 5.7 (37). St Paul’s McKinnon 4.12 (36) drew with Cheltenham 5.6 (36).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Dingley 24.23 (167) d Chelsea Heights 0.0 (0). Cranbourne Eagles 11.12 (78) d mordialloc 2.1 (13). Bentleigh 7.1 (43) d East Brighton 5.5 (35). Port Melbourne Colts 3.10 (28) d Springvale Districts 2.6 (18). Cheltenham 16.8 (104) d St Paul’s McKinnon 2.2 (14).

■ Division 1 Under 19. Dingley 11.9 (75) d Cheltenham 3.6 (24). Murrumbeena 8.9 (57) d Bentleigh 4.4 (28). Frankston Dolphins 9.8 (62) d Endeavour Hills 4.4 (28). Cranbourne 8.12 (60) d highett 4.11 (35).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Endeavour Hills 6.13 (49) d Caulfield Bears 4.9 (33). Hampton Park 16.11 (107) d St Kilda city 7.4 (46). Doveton Doves 11.18 (84) d Keysborough 5.7 (37). Murrumbeena 13.11 (89) d Highett 4.7 (31). East Malvern 9.8 (62) d Skye 1.3 (9).

■ Division 2 Reserves. Endeavour Hills 7.8 (50) d Caulfield Bears 0.7 (7). Hampton Park 18.11 (119) d St Kilda City 0.1 (1). Doveton Doves 9.14 (68) d Keysborough 7.5 (47). Murrumbeena 10.10 (70) d Highett 2.4 (16). East Malvern 5.6 (36) d Skye 5.5 (35).

■ Division 2 Open Grade. Lyndhurst 5.7 (37) d Lyndale 2.3 (15). Black Rock 2.3 (15) d Keysborough 1.6 (12). Murrumbeena 8.6 (54) d Endeavour Hillsd 5.7 (37). Hallam: Bye.

■ Division 3 Seniors. Ashwood 10.9 (69) d Black Rock 8.7 (55). South Mornington 8.11 (59) d Carrum Patterson Lakes 7.7 (49). Heatherton 19.17 (131) d Narre South Saints 1.4 (10). Frankston Dolphins 12.9 (81) d Lyndhurst 2.0 (12).

■ Division 3 Reserves. Black Rock 10.11 (71) D Ashwood 7.8 (50). Carrum Patterson Lakes 5.7 (37) d South Mornington 2.6 (18). Heatherton 21.9 (135) d Narre South Saints 4.1 (25). Frankston Dolphins 3.9 (27) d Lyndhurst 1.1 (7).

■ Division 4 Seniors. Dandenong West 15.8 (98) d Clayton 3.11 (29). Hallam 5.11 (41) d Lyndale 3.6 (24). Hampton 20.18 (138) d Southj Yarra 4.3 (27). Moorabbin Kangaroos 10.16 (76) d Doveton Eagles 4.6 (30).

■ Division 4 Reserves. Clayton 12.13 (85) d Dandenong West 4.6 (30). Lyndale 8.3 (51) d Hallam 6.5 (41). Hampton 254.14 (158) d South Yarra 0.1 (1). Moorabbin Kangaroos 19.16 (130) d Doveton Eagles 0.2 (2).

Western

■ Thirds. Point Cook 8.6 (54) d Glen Orden 6.2 (38). Eynesbury 13.13 (91) d Wyndhamvale 1.7 (13). Bryabrook v Yarraville Seddon Eagles. Sunshine Kangaroos 7.8 (50) d Spotswood 5.9 (39). Point Cook Centrals 4.7 (31) d Newport 1.4 (10). Caroline Springs Lakers 7.3 (45) d Bacchus Marsh 4.4 (28).

■ Division 2 Seniors. North Footscray 10.11 (71) d Sunshine Heights 9.9 (63). Sunshine 28.17 (185) d North Sunshine 0.1 (1). Tarneit 6.10 946) d Braybrook 5.9 (39). Albanvale 5.6 (36) d Western Rams 4.5 (29). Albion 8.15 (63) d Newport 8.13 (61). Suns 7.11 (53) d Laverton 7.6 (48). Wyndhamvale 12.17 (89) d West Footscray 6.14 (50).

■ Division 2 Reserves. Sunshine Heights 15.5 (95) d North Footscray 1.5 (11). Sunshine 33.30 (228) d North Sunshine 1.0 (6). Braybrook 10.17 (77) d Tarneit 2.1 (13). Albanvale v Western Rams. Albion 9.7 (61) d Newport 5.7 (37). Suns 13.10 (88) d Laverton 1.4 (10). Wyndhamvale 6.7 (43) d West Footscray 3.2 (20).

■ Division 2 Under 18. Sunshine Kangaroos 9.9 (63) d Werribee Districts 4.10 (34). Yarraville Seddon Eaglers 11.4 (70) d West Footscray 2.8 (20). Point Cook Centrals 7.11 (53) d Point Cook 2.5 (17). Caroline Springs Lakers: Bye.

Country League Goulburn Valley

■ Seniors. Echuca 14.20 (104) d Mooroopna 7.5 (47). Shepparton United 15.14 (104) d Benalla 9.10 (64).Shepparton 16.9 (105) d Rochester 7.6 (48). Seymour 32.18 (210) d Tatura 2.3 (15). Shepparton Swsans 1212./7 (73) d Euroa 9.8 (62). Kyabram 10.15 (75) d Mansfield 6.8 (44).

■ Reserves. Echuca 26.11 (167) d Mooroopna 3.4 (22). Shepparton United 15.12 (102) d Benalla 1.4 (10). Rochester 11.11 (77) d Shepparton 3.4 (22). Seymour 14.15 (99) d Tatura 2.4 (16). Euroa 6.9 (45) nd Shepparton Swans 2.9 (21). Kyabram 13.10 (88) d Mansfield 3.5 (23).

■ Thirds. Echuca 10.8 (68) d Mooroopna 2.6 (18). Shepparton United 8.8 (56) d Benalla 6.6 (42). Shepparton 8.10 (58) d Rochester 6.3 (39). Seymour 22.12 (144) d Tatura 2.1 (13). Shepparton Swans 11.6 (72) d Euroa 2.6 (18). Kyabram 6.10 (46) d Mansfield 3.5 (23).

Kyabram District

■ Seniors. Avenel 12.11 (83) d Girgarre 3.10 (28). Dookie United 15.19 (109) d Violet Town 9.8 (62). Tallygaroopna 14.7 (91) d Longwood 7.10 (52). Stanhope 9.18 (72) d Merrigum 5.6 (36). Murchison Toolamba 9.6 (60) drew with Shepparton East 9.6 (60). Nagambie 16.16 (112) d Rishworth 3.4 (22). Lancaster v Undera.

■ Reserves. Avenel 9.9 (63) d Girgarre 0.2 (2). Dookie United 13.12 (90) d Violet Town 6.7 (43). Tallygaroopna 20./17 (137) d Longwood 1.0 (6). Stanhope 10.13 (121) d Merrigum 2.3 (15). Murchison-Toolamba 8.16 (64) d Shepparton East 3.4 (22). Rushworth 6.11 (47) d Nagambie 6.4 (40). Lancaster v Undera.

■ Under 18. Violet Town 20.23 (143) d Stanhope 1.1 (7). Tallygaroopna 23.21 (159) d Longwood 3.0 (18). Shepparton East 8.11 (59) d Murchison-Toolamba 3.2 (20). Lancaster v Undera. Nagambie: Bye.

Riddell District

■ Seniors. Romsey 9.8 (62) d Lancefield 4.5 (29). Wallan 9.11 (65) d Macedon 3.7 (25). Riddell 14.10 (94) d Diggers Rest 0.3 (3). Woodend-Hesket 7.7 (49) d Melton Centrals 4.8 (32). Kyneton: Bye.

■ Reserves. Romsey 7.7 (49) d Lancefield 4.5 (29). Wallan 12.10 (82) d Macedon 2.2 (14). Riddell 3.8 (26) d Diggers Rest 0.0 (0). Woodend-Hesket 8.7 (55) d Melton Centrals 2.8 (20). Kyneton: Bye.

■ Under 19.5. Romsey 7.8 (50) d Lancefield 4.4 (28). Macedon 4.7 (31) drew with Wallan 4.7 (31). Diggers rest 4.5 (29) d Riddell 2.7 (19). Gisborne Giants 8.9 (57) d Kyneton 2.5 (17).

Ballarat

■ Seniors. Bacchus Marsh 9.15 (69) d Melton South 7.10 (52). East Point 9.20 (74) d Darley 4.0 (24). Sebastopol 11.11 (77) d Lake Wendouree 3.7 (25). Melton 6.5 (41) d North Ballarat 1.7 (13). Sunbury 9.12 (66) d Redan 5.5 (35). Ballarat: Bye.

■ Reserves. Bacchus Marsh 13.13 (91) d Melton South 6.5 (41). East Point 25.9 (159) d Darley 2.0 (12). Sebastopol 6.10 (46) d Lake Wendouree 2.6 (18). Melton 9.5 (59) d North Ballarat 7.6 (48). Sunbury d Redan, by forfeit. Ballarat: Bye.

■ Under 19. Melton South v Bacchus Marsh. East nPoint 14.21 (105) d Darley 2.1 (13). Sebastopol 6.10 (46) d Lake Wendouree 6.5 (41). North Ballarat 5.5 (35) d Melton 2.5 (17). Sunbury 21.17 (143) d Redan 2.2 (14). Ballarat: Bye.

Geelong

■ Seniors. Bell Post Hill 15.9 (99) d Corio 10.7 (67). East Geelong 15.10 (100) d Inverleigh 3.11 (29). Thomson 11.12 (78) d Bannockburn 7.8 (50). Werribee Centrals

Anakie 8.9 (57). North Geelong 9.11 (65) d Winchelsea 7.12 (54). Belmont v GW Giants. ■ Reserves. A

Bellarine

■ Buckleys Reserves. Bell Post Hill 3.7 (25) d Corio 1.11 (17). Inverleigh 6.4 (40) d East Geelong 5.5 (35). Bannockburn 6.6 (54) d Thomson 6.11 (47). Werribee Centrals 8.7 (55) d Aankie 4.7 (31). Winchelsea 8.7 (55) d North Geelong 4.5 (29). Belmont v GW Giants.

■ Seniors. Bell Park 11.22 (88) d St Albans 4.8 (32). Geelong West Giasnts 13.6 (84) d Grovedale 8,16 (64). South Barwon 26.23 (179) d Lara 3.2 (20). St Mary’s 14.10 994) d Leopold 12.11 (83). Colac 11.12 (78) d Newtown & Chilwell 2.4 (16). St Joseph’s 18.128 (126) d North Shire 6.2 (38).

■ Reserves. Bell Park 9.11 (65) d St Albans 3.6 (24). Grovedale 14.4 (88) d Geelong West 4.5 (29). South Barwon 128.17 (125) d Lara 2.4 (16). Leopold 6.4 (40) d St Mary’s 6.3 (39). Newtown & Chilwell 5.9 (39) d Colac 4.9 (33). St Joseph’s 31.22 (208) d North Shire 0.0 (0).

■ Barwon Seniors. Anglesea 18.13 (121) d Newcomb 8.4 (52). Torquay 10.7 (67) d Modewarre 7.12 (54). Barwon Heads 128;.15 (123) d Portarlington 7.12 (54). Drysdale 14.11 (95) d Queenscliff 2.10 (22). Ocean Grove 12.5 (77) d Geelong Amatuer 5.20 (55).

■ Barwon Reserves. Anglesea 16.12 (108) d Newcomb 4.12 (36). Torquay 7.9 (51) d Modewarre 2.11 (23). Barown Headsd 10.16 (76) d Portarlington 2.6 (18). Queenscliff 12.8 (80) d Drysdale 6.11 (47). Geelong Amateur 12.10 (82) d Ocean Grove 6.8 (44).

West Gippsland

■ Seniors. Warragul Industrials 9.10 (64) d Korumburra 4.7 (31). Kilcunda Bass 8.14 (62) d Bunyip 2.3 (15). Phillip Island 12.11 (83) d Garfield 4.6 (30). Cora Lynn 8.9 (57) d Tooradin-Dalmore 6.8 (44). Inverloch-Kongwak 11.9 (75) d Dalyston 4.7 (31). Nar Nar Goon 6.18 (54) d Koo Wee Rup 2.3 (15).

■ Reserves. Warragul Industrials 6.7 (43) d Korumburra bena 5.6 (36). Kilcunda Bass 15.13 (103) d Bunyip 0.1 (1). Phillip Island 10.12 (72) d Garfield 0.2 (2). TooradinDalmore 8.8 (56) d Cora Lynn 3.3 (21). Inverloch-Kongwak 12.10 (82) d Dalyston 0.3 (3). Nar Nar Goon 5.13 (43) d Koo Wee Rup 0.2 (2).

■ Thirds. Warragul Industrials 13.11 (89) d Korumburra Bena 2.2 (14). Bunyip v Kilcunda Bass, cancelleed. Phillip Islsand 5.5 (35) d Garfield 2.1 (13). Tooradin-Dalkmore v Cora Lynn, cancelled. Inverloch-Kongwak 5.4 (34) d Dalyston 1.4 (10). Koo-Wee Rup 2.2 (14) drew with Nar Nar Goon 2.2 (14).

■ Fourths. Korumburra bena v Warragul Industrials. Bunyip 7.3 (45) d Kilcunda Bass 0.4 (4). Phillip Island 4.5 (29) d Garfield 0.4 (4). Tooradin-Dalmore v Cora Lynn, cancelled. Inverloch-Kongwak 13.16 (94) d Dalyston 2.1 (13). Koo Wee Rup 5.3 (33) d Nar Nar Goon 4.1 (25).

Central Highlands

■ Seniors. Daylesford 7.8 (50) d Buninyong 4.8 (32). Bungaree 210.7 967) d Waubra 4.2 (26). Creswick 5.4 (34) d Skipton 4.8 (32). Carngham Linton 8.13 (61) d Clunes 3.7 (25). Newlyn 2.11 (23) d Springbank 1.3 (9). Gordon 15.15 (105) d Beaufort 3.3 (21). Hepburn 6.8 (44) d Dunnstown 6.2 (38). Rokewood Corindhap 6.8 (44) d Ballan 4.2 (26). Learmonth: Bye. ■ Reserves. Buninyong 10.14 (74) d Daylesford 0.0 (0). Bungaree 10.15 (75) d Waubra 1.4 (10). Skipton 6.10 (46) d Creswick 4.2 (26). Carngham Linton 6.2 (38) d Clunes 2.6 (18). Springabk 2.5 (17) d Newlyn 1.1 (7). Gordon 9.10 (64) d Beaufort 1.4 (10). Dunnstown 13.8 (86) d Heoburn 2.4 (16). Rokewood Corindhap 4.4 (28) d Ballan 4.1 (25). Learmonth: Bye.

ARIES: (March 21- April 20)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 3.2.6.5. Lotto Numbers: 3.12.26.24.40.44. There were some very happy and romantic nights and engaging new friends. There were perfect moments at home and luck in a game of chance.

TAURUS: (April 21- May 20)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.5. Lotto Numbers: 5.12.23.36.39.8. It's not a good time to make decisions on important matters. It's better to wait and see before deciding about anything or anyone. This is a more harmonious period at home and in the work scene.

GEMINI: (May 21- June 21)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.6. Lotto Numbers: 2.13.25.40.5.44. Some friction on the domestic scene is indicated. This could be due mainly to financial arrangements that do not suit everybody. Study all aspects well before committing yourself.

CANCER: (June 22- July 22)

Lucky Colour: Lilac

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 2.3.6.2. Lotto Numbers: 2.13.5.19.7.22. It was a very romantic period in which those with love interests could make up their minds, and those still looking for the right person could have a lucky find. It's not a reasonable period for divulging secrets about your business activities.

LEO: (July 23- August 22)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.3 Lotto Numbers: 2.13.26.24.40.11. A new money-making venture should turn out quite well, although not how you expected. Some romance could interfere with your business matters, so watch for trouble.

VIRGO: (August 23- September 23)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2.3.2.1.

Lotto Numbers: 2.13.26.36.34.40. The early bird gets the worm, and the clever one receives the most benefit. Do not let emotional matters ruin your plans for an entertaining and happy period.

LIBRA: (September 24- October 23)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.3. Lotto Numbers: 5.12.26.36.30.22. You could find happiness closer to home, your thinking should be straight, and making the right decisions is indicated. An attractive member of the opposite sex could be the cause of how you are feeling.

SCORPIO: (October 24- November 22)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.2. Lotto Numbers: 2.13.25.40.6.20. Many will have problems with their relationships, and some will lack progress in that affair. Many will run into an old love affair.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23- December 20)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 5.6.9.8. Lotto Numbers: 5.12.26.36.37.44. You should respond well to many things you did not expect to happen so soon. Being in tune with the vibes around you brings a sense of well-being—some luck with a Taurian.

CAPRICORN: (December 21- January 19)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 4.6.2.1. Lotto Numbers: 4.12.15.26.34.44. A lucky streak is evident for the punter if you follow your hunches. What you say or admit to can get you into more trouble than what you do. People are expecting your side of the story to be told.

AQUARIUS: (January 20- February 19)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1.3.2.5. Lotto Numbers: 1.12.15.24.40.22. If you let tension rise, you will be off on the wrong foot for the next week or so. Many will be ready to take off in different directions; the rest could become pregnant or get someone else pregnant.

PISCES: (February 20- March 20)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 5.6.9.3. Lotto Numbers: 5.12.26.36.30.11. Before throwing caution to the wind or making dramatic moves, patience is necessary for the next week. Good things are happening out of the blue, and reasons to celebrate are coming up fast.

There will be no war: MP, 1939

■ “The statute of Queen Alexandra was unrveiled on Friday afternoon last, in the presence of a large gathering of residents and the child ren attending the school,” noted a local press report on August 4, 1939.

“The statue has been erected in the small park created by the C.W.A. on portion of the Library block.

“Cr. W. A. Murray, Shire Presi dent, opened the proceedings, and said the statue had been received on permanent loan from the Trustees of the National Gallery Mr. Elliott was instrumental in having it sent to Alexandra.

“Thanks were due to the committee of the local Library for permission to place the statue on their land, and he would also like to mention the assistance given by the local branch of the C.W.A

“Later on the C.W.A. hoped to erect a building to serve as a baby health centre.

“Cr. Murray then asked Mr. Elliott to unveil the statue.

“Mr. R. D. Elliott said be was very pleased to be present. He thought the action of the Trustees indicated a wider outlook, and showed that the National Gallery was a national institution - not a Melbourne one.

“There was no fitter site for the statue than Alexandra. It was "lent" to Alexandra, and would never be returned.

“The statue, the work of Charles Summers, was a permanent monument" of that artist's work.

“He was born in 1825, and as a boy received 1/ a week for scaring crows fiom the field.

“Later on be attended the Royal Academy School . He arrived in Melbourne in 1853.

“When at Tarnagulla goldfields he saw an advertisement for modellers at Parliament House, and disposed of his claim (the purchasers of which afterwards struck a patch that netted £20,000.)

“He modelled figures in the Legislative Council Chamber, and was responsibte for the statue of Burke and Wills . He went to Rome , and died in 1878.

“Continuing his remarks, Mr. Elliott said: The life of an English King (or Queen) is one of complete devotion to duty and personal sacrifice.

“More than a man in position and less than a man in human liberty. Monarch and servant in one. Trustee of the rich heritage of the past and guarantor of the immeasurable future.

“Above the law, yet the assurance that. justice will be done. The ruler of the people, the slave of the people, and the embodiment of the people's immortality.

“One holiday time when the royal family were all at Sandringham, the late King George V (son of the Queen) was checking up on church attendance and found that his three elder sonas.were missing.

“Sending for Sir Louis Greig, the King banged the table with his fist and roared, "I'll take no excuses as long as I am the King and their father, these young rascals have

“Fear can do much mischief. It is an active force for harm. Have no fear of war in the Far East. Have no fear of war in Europe. The war that can be lost is the one of nerves which has for its battle cry the oolish bleating of "it's coming in September."

“Kill the bogey; don't believe it ; develop our own industries - develop Australia

.

“Mr. Elliott then unveiled the statue, which had been covered with the National flag. He also intimated that he would pay for the cutting in of the lettering on the base of the statue.

“The Hon. E. J. Mackrell said he was delighted to be present at the unveiling of the monument by Mr Elliott, whom he hoped would be a Senator again.

“He was not so optimistic as Mr. Elliott in regard to the war rumblings, but sincerely hoped there would be no war.

“They must, however, buckle on the armour, and endeavour to be prepared.

“Mr. Mackrell then spoke of the various forms of government in the world, and the great freedom enjoyed under the British flag.

“Mr. C. R. Long was the next speaker. He said: I esteem it a great privilege to be present and to speak at this ceremony to-day. I should be thankful; it is a unique experience.

“Just think of it. To be on this spot

where we are standing before there were any houses in sight, and to be so circumstanced as to be able to return and find around me a prosperous community and a thriving town.

“I was driven in a waggonette with my father, mother, and a sister along a bullock dray track, which led from the Josephine cutting to the Recreation Reserve, crossed the creek, came down this side of it, turned into Grant Street, and then went In the direction of Thornton, at a time when there was not a house to be seen from the vehicle.

“That was in the sumnmer of 1865 - 74 years ago. Gold was discovered in the neighborhood in une of the next year - '66, and a township speedily came into being.

“Most of the houses were placed along the bullock-dray track. Gold was being got in plenty, both from quartz and from alluvial.

“The Government decided, therefore, to have a town and parish surveyed.

“John Downey, surveying in the district, was given the work to do. Most of the town was laid out in January, 1867, commencing from about where we are now.

“The Shire Hall is on Allotment 1 of Section 1.

Naming of Alexandra

■ Reference to certain documents and plans in the Land Office, Mel bourne, has brought to light some facts concerning the naming of Alexandra, which have more than ordinary interest at this time, when a statue of Queen Alexandra is about to be unveiled in Perkins Street,” said a 1939 press report.

“A. McGregor and S. Don discovered gold in quartz, on the bullock dray track from Thornton to Yea, not far from McKenzie's homestead, in June, 1866.

“As they were first discoveries of a goldfield (there being no mining between their find and Yea at that time), they received a reward-to each £75.

damned well got to go to church every Sunday morning."

“In regard to the international situation to-day lt must be remembered that Britain is strong, and Germany knows it.

“Therefore, in spite of all the massing of troops, the fiery speeches and the rattling of the sabre, and because of the strength of Britain, there will be no war.

“But there is one very great danger - the war of nerves. The campaign is become intense all the time.

“It is being conducted from Berlin , with Goebbels in command. Tientsin is part of the campaign. Goebbels' army extends beyond the frontiers of Germany to international financiers who spread rumours to the stock markets of the world, so that confidence is de stroyed. Nor does it stop there.

“There are the unpaid, unwitting agents here in Australia, Melbourne (even Alexandra ) who spread the news to their fellow townspeople that the war is coming in September.

“Goebells and Hitler believe that by rumours, alarms and excursions they can create such a state of nerves that to end the intolerable strain we shall give the Nazis what they want.

“Denounce the prophets of war! Criticise the people who go about saying war is inevitable. They are enemies of the public.

“They spread unemployment, driving many out ofwork. They breed in every classof the community anxiety and fear.

“They named their claim "Eglinton," which was that of a run and homestead (occupied by Henry Johnson, on the Yea side of McKenzie's Mount Pleasant run), and also of a creek (now Johnson's Creek.)

“Other claims were soon being worked from McGregor's and Don's claim in the direction of the U.T. Creek and there were alluvial diggings along that creek forseveral miles.

THE NAMING

“The track ran along what is now Grant Street till it came within a few yards of the U.T. Creek, where it turned up the stream and led to a crossing place near the junction of the present Webster and Perkins Streets

“There was a chock-and-log fence (the boundary at one time between the Mount Pleasant and the Eglinton runs) along the bank of the creek.

“In this fence stood a gateway (painted red), through which the track passed not many yards from the turn. The track became, after crossing the creek, almost a straight line to the neighbourhood of the present Josephine cutting (so named after Henry Johnson's sister).

“There was a rush in the second half of 1866 to the Red Gate diggings (that name, contracted to ‘Redgate' for the field, appearing for the first time in "Bradshaw's Guide" in May, 1867.)

“Richard Vining erected a small building in the vicinity of the turn of the track from Grant Street up the creek, and other buildings rapidly followed.

“There upon John Downey was instructed to survey a town and a parish. The Shire Hall at the junction of the present Grant and Perkins Streets is on allotment I of section 1.

“The title-page of Downey's Field Book, No. 1, runs thus: " John Downey's Field Notes. Survey of the Township of Eglinton on the U.T. Creek, Upper Goulburn River, Surveyed by John Downey, Government Contract Surveyor, Jan.,1867.'

“His finished plan, with the title, "Township of Eglinton, Upper Goulburn River, County of Anglesey,'' was dated February,1867.

“A proclamation in the Government Gazette in the following month (March) begins : "Sale of Crown Lands in fee simple at Alexandra, on the 5th April, 1867.'"

“This shows that the name had been changed. Downey's plan has now a slip with the word "Alexandra'' on it gummed over "Eglinton."

“The new name was that of a Danish princess, the "Rose of Denmark," who, about four years earlier (the exact date being March 7, 1863), had married the Prince of Wales (afterwards Edward VII).” - July 28, 1939

● ● ● ● The sculpture of Princess Alexandra was unveiled in 1939

“Downey named the town "Eglinton" after Henry Johnson's "run," which had been called that after a town in Scotland by Archibald Thom , who had occupied it in the late forties, before he went to Eildon

“Most of the streets were named by Downey after prominent pioneers of the town, Grant Street was in honor of the head of the Lands Department, J. Macpherson Grant, a great land legislator, and the other chief street after Downey himself.

“In the Melbourne office, however, a slip with "Alexandra" on it was gummed over Downey's "Eglinton."

“Princess Alexandra, of Denmark, became the wife of Edward Prince of Wales, afterwards Edward VII

“She had been married to him for about four years when her name was bestowed upon the town and the parish.

“She was an exceeding ly handsome woman and amicable. She was therefore much liked, and the change of the name of the town was a graceful act, and a wise one.

“We who are interested in the town should be grateful to the Trustees of the National Gallery in Melbourne, of which body Mr. R.D. Elliott is Treasurer, for such an attractive and valuable gift.

“Mr. Long concluded his remarks with an earnest request that the statue should never be defaced or damaged in any way.

“Mr. H. Buxton (Headmaster.of the School) called for three cheers, and under his direction the children sang God Save the King

“(Mr. Long brought with him a copy of Mr. Downey's original plan and handed it to the Shire Secretary for safe keeping.)

★ Robert Charles Dunlop Elliott unveiled the statue at Alexandra in 1939.

Elliott (1884-1950) had well and truly established himself in business, political and cultural circles.

Elliott was born in Kyneton, and (at right) is proudly costumed in the dress of his mother’s ScottishInverness – forebears. His grocer father was from Northumberland, England.

Elliott had only the slightest formal education, but was a natural entrepreneur, and by 1911 had established himself as a successful business agent.

Local History

Summers created sculpture

■ The Princess Alexandra Statue, located in the Jack Shiel Gardens, is the work of English sculptor Charles Summers (1825-1878).

The Princess Alexandra Statue is made of white Italian marble, and was completed in Rome as part of a commission for Sir William J. Clarke (1831 – 1897) in 1876.

Sir William commissioned him to sculpt four large statues in marble of Queen Victoria, Prince Albert, and the then Prince and Princess of Wales (later Edward VII and Queen Alexandra) for presentation to the Melbourne art gallery. These were completed in 1878.

Soon afterwards Charles Summers while on his way to England was taken seriously ill, and died after an operation for acute goitre in Paris

The Princess Alexandra Statue was his last sculpture.

Originally located in the grounds of the State Library of Victoria in Melbourne, the statue was relocated to Alexandra in 1939 where it was installed in the gardens where she is surrounded by beds of roses, her favourite flower.

In 1994 the statue was unveiled under a new colonnade, which was financed under the Centennial Awards. Charles Summers was a regular exhibitor at Royal Academy exhibitions; more than 40 of his works were shown between 1849 and 1876. He was a competent sculptor who also created the figures on the ceiling of the council chamber of Melbourne’s Parliament House, a frieze of putti on the old Bank of New South Wales building (now located at Melbourne University) and the recumbent figure of Lady Macleay in Surrey

It is the memorial to the explorers Burke and Wills on the corner of Collins and Swanston St s in Melbourne’s heart for which he is best known.

‘Alix’ married Albert Edward

■ Alexandra of Denmark (Alexandra Caroline Marie Charlotte Louise Julia; December 1, 1844 – November 20, 1925) was Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and Empress of India as the wife of King-Emperor Edward VII

She was one of five sisters (two of whom would also became Queens of Norway and Russia).

Her family had been relatively obscure until 1852, when her father, Prince Christian of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glücksburg, was chosen with the consent of the great powers to succeed his distant cousin, Frederick VII, to the Danish throne.

At the age of 16, she was chosen as the future wife of Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, the heir apparent of Queen Victoria

She was described as “a beautiful and slender lady with perfect complexion and lovely mannerisms as befitting a queen”.

They married 18 months later in 1863, the same year her father became king of Denmark as Christian IX and her brother was appointed to the vacant Greek throne as George I

She was Princess of Wales from 1863 to 1901, the longest anyone has ever held that title, and became generally popular; her style of dress and bearing were copied by fashion-conscious women.

Largely excluded from wielding any political power, she unsuccessfully attempted to sway the opinion of British ministers and her husband's family to favour Greek and Danish interests. Her public duties were restricted to uncontroversial involvement in charitable work.

On the death of Queen Victoria in 1901, Albert Edward became king-emperor as Edward VII, with Alexandra as queen-empress.

She held the status until Edward's death in 1910. She greatly distrusted her nephew, German Emperor Wilhelm II, and supported her son during World War I, in which Britain and its allies fought Germany

She died of a heart attack just before her 80th birthday in 1925 and was buried in an elaborate tomb next to her husband in St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle

■ Footnote: Alexandra’s own Masonic Lodge, which meets at the Temple at the corner of Webster and Nihil Sts., carries the name ‘Albert Edward’.

Edward VII (Albert Edward; November 9, 1841 – May 6, 1910) was King of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions and Emperor of India from January 22, 1901 until his death in 1910.

The eldest son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, Edward was related to royalty throughout Europe. Before his accession to the throne, he served as heir apparent and held the title of Prince of Wales for longer than any of his predecessors.

During the long reign of his mother, he was largely excluded from political power, and came to personify the fashionable, leisured elite. He travelled throughout Britain performing ceremonial public duties, and represented Britain on visits abroad.

His tours of North America in 1860 and the Indian subcontinent in 1875 were popular successes, but despite public approval his reputation as a playboy prince soured his relationship with his mother.

As king, Edward played a role in the modernisation of the British Home Fleet and the reorganisation of the British Army after the Second Boer War

He re-instituted traditional ceremonies as public displays and broadened the range of people with whom royalty socialised.

He fostered good relations between Britain and other European countries, especially France, for which he was popularly called "Peacemaker", but his relationship with his nephew, Kaiser Wilhelm II, was poor.

The Edwardian era, which covered Edward's reign and was named after him, coincided with the start of a new century and heralded significant changes in technology and society.

He married Theodore Fink’s daughter, Hilda, in 1913, and their marriage was highly successful, with Hilda becoming very active in her husband’s political, cultural and business ambitions.

In 1924 he commenced his connection with Mildura by buying into the Sunraysia Daily.

He was elected a Senator for Victoria in 1929, serving until 1935.

‘R. D.’ was a passionate art collector, playing an important role in Melbourne’s cultural life, and was a trustee of the Public Library, Museums and National Gallery of Victoria

Tall, good-looking, ambitious and immensely energetic, by 1924 Elliott was directing or owning companies dealing in roofing materials, millinery, seeds, stationery, insurance and civil construction, including bridge-building and hydro-electric schemes.

He became chairman of the Civil Engineering Construction Company, responsible for the construction of the Sugarloaf-Rubicon Hydro-Electric Scheme (the Sugarloaf Powerhouse was at Eildon Weir).

Princess Alexandra

● ● ● ● R.D. Elliott

Yea Bowls Club dates to 1898

■ The first reference to the Yea Bowls Club that we can locate in newspaper files is in 1898.

“A meeting of the Yea Bowling Club will be held on Saturday evening, and of the Yea Athletic Club on Tuesday evening. Full attendances at both are desired,” noted The Yea Chronicle on November 10, 1898.

That same issue noted that the Yea Shire Council received a letter from the Yea Bowling Club “applying to the council for a piece of land 150 x 100 feet opposite the Post Office, facing High and Station Streets for a site for a bowling green, and requesting council to fence in same, cost of which would amount to £18”.

“Cr. Ryan said he considered this was a matter worthy of support. To his own knowledge bowling greens in other towns had received the support of the;local bodies and quoted as an instance how the Seymour Council had fenced in piece of a road for a similar purpose.

“The public of Yea had subscribed £50, and the club was prepared to spend £70 or £80 in improving the ground.

“Cr. Dunn asked if the public would be blocked from the ground.

“Cr. Ryan said there would be no charge for admisalon, and in fact the public could see much from the outside. .

“Cr Scale said it would be necessary to apply to the Public Works Department as the laud asked for was a portion of the road.

“Cr.Ryan moved that the secretary be instructed to apply to the Lands Department for the piece of land in question and that the council donate £18 towards erecting a fence round same;

“Cr. Olney seconded the motion which was carried.

“At a later stage in the council meeting Cr. Ryan brought forward a resolution that the sum of £18 donated by the council towards erecting the fence should come out of the 'general revenue'of the shire.

“He considered that all the ridings should contribute for this purpose.

“Cr. Olney seconded the resolution.

“The motion on being put was carried, Crs Dunn, Draper O'Callaghan voting against.”

Within three months, the land had been secured, according to a February 9, 1899, report.

“The committee of the Yea Bowling Club met at Ryan’s Hotel on

Saturday evening. Present: Messrs. Taite (in chair), McCann, Ryan, Dobson, Clark and Sharland.

“In view of the desired site having been secured, and the council havcing gained assistance towards fencing same, it was decided to call tenders for fencing with a view to submitting same to next council meeting for approval, also to at once call up the entrance fee of £1 1s. from

intending members, the payment of annual subscription of £1 1s. to remain in abeyance until required. The meeting then adjourned.”

Yea Bowling Club Secretary H. McCann placed an advertisement calling for tenders to erect picket fencing on the Yea Bowling Green.

By May 1899, Jack Dunlop had been unanimously appointed honorary engineer to the Yea Bowling Club

in conjunc tion with Mr. Sharland. Tenders were received for the construction of the bowling green: James McAsey .....................23 18 0 Clydesdale Bros .................. 25 2. 6 K. McIntosh ...................... 28.10.0

E.

(2items only)

0

James McAsey won the tender.

A parcel of seeds was gifted from Mr. Fraser, of South Melbou rne, through his friend Mr. James Drysdale, " Mussgrove," Yea Cr. Olney undertook to sow the seeds and tend young plants until ready. for placing round the green..

The entrance fee of a guinea (£1 1s.) each was received mid-year from W. Knox, M.L.C.; C. Tyson; J.C. Sanders; J. Taite; E.H. Dobson; E. Rule; H. McCane; D. Olney; J. Quinlan; E.S. Purcell; D. Ryan; J.D. Hamilton; S. Wall; J. Wild; and half a guinea from Messrs. M.K. McKenzie, M.L.A.; J. Campbell, M.L.C.; and Jas. Balfour, M.L.C.

An early view of land opposite the Yea Post Office which became the Bowls Club area

TOP FIELD TO CONTEST WINX STAKES

■ The top mare, Fangirl, after a long spell, has been made favourite for the popular Winx Stakes to be run next month in Sydney.

One of the best performed mares racing, she has been off the scene for some time, under the care of leading rrainer Chris Waller.

She won the Winx Stakes last year, can she make it a double?

Prior to going for a break, she ran a good second to Think It Over in the VerryElleegant Stakes at Randwick on March 3.

From her 25 starts she has won eight races in top company, with seven minor placings always among the cream of racing.

Despite needing the run up to her next outing, she has the class and will aquitherself well here.

Another that will show a bit here, is the nicelooking colt, Celestial Legend, a three-year-old by leading sire, Dundeel, prepared by top veteran trainer, Les Bridge

Back on March 9 he won the Randwick Guineas in fine style and has loads of ability.

Talking about some of the best runs in a race you can witness, cast your mind back to April 13 at Randwick.

Some good horses lined-up in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Randwick.

But when the barriers opened up it was a sixyear old mare, who showed them what racing was all about.

A mare by the name of Pride of Jenni blitzed them in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes over 2000 metres on a soft 5 track at Randwick.

When she jumped her rider, Declan Bates, a good Irishman, decided he was going to lead all the way in a different role of her racing style.

Well into the run the further they went she got away more, and at the turn was stillabout six lengths in front, and won by around 6.5 lengths.

I have seen many a champion in my time, but that run was remarkable.

She showed her colours at Melbourne Cup Carnival, winning the Champions Mile on the last day of the Carnival.

If you can get hold of a copy of the run you will be gobsmacked.

On the next line is another smart mare in Via Sistina, who ran second to the runaway Pride of Jenni on the day.

Prior to that she won the Ranvet Stakes in fine fashion, and in the Queen Elizabeth, did the best of the rest in second spot.

She is a talented mare and will put in a bit in a good field of gallopers.

Prepared by Chris Waller she has impressed with the imported mare being by Australian sire,

Ted Ryan

Fastnet Rock. Amelia’s Jewel, now with Annabel Neasham, showed her class in winning many a classic in Perth and other major tracks, and if he can get her back to her best could be right in it here.

Back on May 11, she disappointed with a 12th in the Goodwood Handicap at Morphettville.

I feel she would have to find something here on recent form.

The Annabel Neasham trained mare, Sunshine in Paris, is a good type, and has won races in good company.

She finished a good fourth in the All Aged Stakes behind Magic Time at Randwick in a bog.

The meeting at Randwick was called off the All Aged Stakes due to the conditions of the track and the vision.

She is good, I feel just a little under the likes of the top gallopers, but she has a crack every time she goes out.

Yet another of the Waller team in Atishu, by the Cox Plate winner Savabeel, ran a big race in the Queen of The Turf Event finishing third behind Zougotcha

She tries her heart out, but they may be a bit strong here.

Zougotcha, the stablemate, goes alright, and was too good in winning the Queen of the Turf and is consistent.

She will have a go right throughout this here.

Then we have the Victorian, Another Wil, who goes well.

After winning four on end in Melbourne, they had a crack at the highly contested Doncaster Handicap after he had won four on end in Melbourne

He is good and is improving all the time, he is the strong camp of leading Victorian trainer, Ciaron Maher,. Of the others, another Victorian, Amenable, from the Mick Price-Michael Kent stable, goes

well and will have a crack, but I fancy the others. Overall, I like Fan Girl, Celestial Legend, Pride of Jenni and Via Sistina.

Fine gesture

■ The Moonee Valley Racing Club hascome to the fore announcing they will be backing the sale of the Charity Pin partnership with Myeloma Australia.

Moonee Valley is backing the organisation as the Cox Plate Carnival Charity for the next three years.

The Cox Plate Carnival Charity Pin serves as MVRC’s key fundraising initiative during the Spring Racing Carnival, providing support and promoting awareness for the chose Charity Partner.

Myeloma Australia is the sole not-for-profit organisation in the nation dedicated specially to supporting those affected by Myeloma.

Moonee Valley’s Racing Head of Commercial, Rozalee Erceg, said the Club was excited to partner with Myeloma Australia for the next three years.

There will be many opportunities for people to support Myeloma Australia during the Spring Carnival.

Volunteers will be selling pins on track, and a variety of engaging activities will be launched to fundraise and promote the cause, making it easy for everyone to get involved and make a difference.

The Cox Plate Carnival Charity Pin will be officially launched on Saturday September 7, on Group One Charter Deck Moir Stakes Day at the Valley, and will be available for purchase throughout the Spring Racing Carnival and online at the valley.com.au

Myeloma is an incurable Blood Cancer arising from malignant cells in the bone marrow.

Health issues associated with Myeloma can include a weakened immune system, bone destruction, anaemia, and reduced kidney function.

Thanks to the generosity of MVRC members, racegoers, and the community, along with the work of volunteers, $113, 600, was raised for Charity Partner Make-A-Wish Australia in 2023, brining the total to over a quarter of a million dollars across the two-year partnership.

- Ted Ryan

● ● ● ● At.Racing Photos.

● ● ● Pride of Jenni. Racing Photos.

9 RACES AT SHEPP. NIGHT MEETING

■ Tuesday was a late start to the week’s racing with Shepparton holding a night meeting consisting of nine even races. It was another great night for the Goulburn Valley who provided six winners throughout the evening commencing with Tatura father and daughter – Craig and Abbey Turnbull taking the 2190 metre Marg Watson Pace with handy 5Y0 American Ideal-Our Options gelding Hidalgo. Beginning brilliantly from gate five to lead before surrendering to the heavily backed Bella Danza outside him to enjoy the run of the race. Pushing into the clear on the final bend, Hidaldo registered a 1.8 metre margin over Bella Danza, with Frugal Fare going forward from four back at the bell to race exposed for the final circuit third 4.5 metres back. The mile rate 1-59.3

■ Tallygaroopna duo Mark Lee (trainer) and partner Stacey Towers (driver) were successful with 4Y0 mare Focus in the Jan Steen Trotters Mobile over 2190 metres.

A lovely daughter of Creatine and Miss Impromptu, Focus starting from gate four on the second line settled five back in the running line as polemarker Aldebaran Marshall led.

Gradually making ground to be one/one, then one/two in the last lap after Aldebaran Campbell went forward from mid-field to face the open, Focus first up since a Cobram victory in January after easing three wide on the final bend finished stylishly to record an easy 9.3 metre victory over Midnight Eagle which flashed late off a three wide trail in the last lap. Aldebaran Marshall battled on gamely for third 2.7 metres away. The mile rate 2-02.6.

■ Four year old Hes Watching-Sounds Swift gelding Swift Watch made it three from three with a convincing victory for Girgare trainer/ driver Lisa Pitt in the Rod Booker Pace over 1690 metres.

Trapped outside Captain Maastricht (gate four) which began very quickly, Swift Watch (gate five) had little difficulty in taking over and proceeded to lead for the majority of the journey, accounting for both High Flux and Gilty By The Beach which ran on out wide from the rear. The margins 1.3 by 4.5 metres in a mile rate of 1-55.4.

■ Kialla based Cameron Maggs trained and reined 4Y0 For A Reason-Bed Socks gelding Wind Sock to land the 1690 metre Owen Flynn Pace.

Trapped wide from gate four, Wind Sock was sent forward to park outside the pacemaker Lilsnightmare (gate five) before prevailing by a head in 1-57.4 from polemarker She Haunts Em along the sprint lane off the back of the leader. Lilsnightmare held third 3.3 metres away.

■ It was great to see Mitchellstown trainer/ driver Kylie Sugars in the winners circle after 3Y0 American Ideal-Jazzam filly Kimcando led throughout from gate two in the Saddleworld Shepparton Pace over 1690 metres, defeating Eye See Philtra (one/one – three wide last lap) by a half head only. Country Rockstar (one/two) ran home late off a three wide trail for third 3.4 metres back. The mile rate 1-58.4.

■ Bolinda trainer Brent Lilley and stable reinsman Tristan Larsen caused a major blowout when 5Y0 Father Patrick-Hot Pants entire Kyvalley Paint starting from the extreme draw finished at 100 miles an hour from mid-field to blowse a death-seating Montana Muscle which led on turning by a head in the 1690 metre Alabat Trotters Mobile. Lots Of Change after working from outside the front line to lead faded for third 7.2 metres away. The mile rate two minutes even.

■ The other winners on the program were Favouritehighlight (Glenn Bull & Sean O’Sullivan) in the 2190 Adele Watson Mares Pace and Foxyontherun for Riverina trainer/ driver Rod Coelli in the Neatline Homes 4Y0 & Older Maiden Pace over 2190 metres.

Double day

■ Wednesday was double day with Charlton in the afternoon and Bendigo racing at Melton at night.

At Charlton brothers Ashley and Jason Ainsworth each recorded a win, Ashley with 5Y0 Danny Bouchea-Palkia mare Boutika in the North West AG Trotters Handicap and Jason with 9Y0 Village Jasper-Regulatory Affair

Harness Racing

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker

gelding The Regulator in the 2100 metre TAB Pace. Boutika driven by Jason was given a cosy trip one/one from 10 metres as Prims Luck led from barrier three.

Sprinting like a gazelle in the last lap to lead on turning, Boutika raced away to space his rivals, scoring by 17.8 metres in a rate of 2-04.2 from Belmac Bambi four pegs along the sprint lane, with Poppy Popstar (20m) one/two - three wide last lap third a head away.

The Regulator (gate two on the second line) went forward three wide in the last lap from mid-field to record a 1.1 metre margin from Fragmental along the sprint lane after trailing the pacemaker Fair Chance (gate three). Nai Harn Bay after moving to race in the open was third 1.2 metres back. The mile rate 2-00.4.

■ Gower East (St Arnaud) part-owner/breeder/ trainer Ross Conway’s lightly raced Julius Caesar-Varanasi 8Y0 mare Cornelia first up since June notched up her second success in only seven outings when taking the 1609 metre Wimmera Mallee Tourism Pace.

Driven by ‘Herbie’ Herbertson, Cornelia (gate five) began fast to lead throughout, accounting for Mr Teddy which raced outside her from outside the front line by 5 metres returning a mile rate of 1-57.2. Heavily backed odds-on favourire Our Better Bro (one/three) was never in contention when third 4.4 metres back.

■ Marong’s David Van Ryn combined with Ryan Sanderson to capture the Ames Australasian Pace over 1609 metres with 5Y0 Sportswriter-Tess Finnegan mare Tooby Gold.

Settling three pegs from inside the second line with Mary Austin leading from gate five, Tooby Gold was able to come away from the inside prior to the home turn to be one/two and poised to pounce.

Although wide on the final bend, Tooby Gold ran home nicely to register a 2.3 metre margin over Markleigh Caz (four wide) from mid-field, with Emily Vincent (three wide to race exposed at the bell) third a half neck away. The mile rate 1-57.

■ Longlea trainer/driver Mattie Gath was successful with 5Y0 Genuwine-River Reos gelding Jersey Sam which landed a fair plunge in the 1609 metre GMG Financial Group Pace returning a mile rate of 2-01.2.

Starting from the extreme draw, Jersey Sam possied mid-field in the moving line as Muriel led from gate three.

Trailing both Roberts Delight (one/one) and Eagles And Indians (one/two) in the three wide line in the back straight on the final occasion Jersey Sam after being extricated five wide on the home turn finished full of running down the outside fence to prevail by 1.4 metres from Roberts Delight and Kinchi (four pegs) 6.8 metres away.

■ At Melton, Horsham’s Aaron Dunn combined with Hamilton’s Jackie Barker to snare a double Pace over the same trip. Komodo after a cosy mid-field passage from gate two on the second line went forward three wide in the last lap and not bussled, was too strong over the concluding stages for the leader Keayang Taco (gate four) in a mile rate of 1-56.9. Swizzlestick was third 8 metres away after following the winner home.

■ Veteran Concongella (Stawell) trainer Owen Martin has won plenty of races over the years and returned to the winners list when Tinted Cloud-Longtan Jacaranda gelding Longtan Vi-

per at odds of $41.00 in the Sheahan Plumbing 3Y0 Vicbred Maiden Pace over 1650 metres with Neil McCallum in the sulky.

Bred and raced by Bruce Williams who’s horses always carry the ‘Long Tan’ prefix in their name, Longtan Wiper led out from the pole before taking a trail on Majors Creek (gate five) to receive a perfect trip. Using the sprint lane, Longtan Wiper scored by a half neck from the pacemaker, with Cyclone Bella (three pegs) also using the sprint lane for third 1.3 metres back.

The mile rate 1-57.9.

■ Very good 4Y0 Sebastian K-Hands Of A Star mare Susan Is Her Name resuming since taking the $100,000 Vicbred Super Series in September last year toyed with her rivals in the 2240 metre Alabar Bloodstock Pace.

Settling at the tail from the extreme draw, Mark Pitt bided his time on the mare before setting off three wide racing for the bell to join the leader Montana Cheval (gate five) which galloped after being past on final bend.

Racing clear in the straight, Susan Is Her Name coasted to the wire 9.8 metres clear of Keayang Gucci from mid-field in the running line, with Im Bobby (one/one) third a neck back.

The mile rate 2-00.7.

11-event card

■ Kilmore trots raced again on Thursday with an even eleven event card and it was Monegeetta trainer David Miles successful when 4Y0 Always B Miki-Braeview Creation gelding

The Iron Duke driven by Michael Bellman for Romsey’s Sal Ferraro and family leading virtually throughout from gate four to just last by a nose from Settlebello along the sprint lane after trailing. Khans Creed after racing exposed for the last mile was third 3.9 metres back. The mile rate 1-59.5.

■ Bolinda trainer Alison Alford snared the O’Brien Electrical Pace over 1690 metres with Our Rebel Yell, a 4Y0 gelded son of Betting Line and Hotinthecitytonite driven by husband Chris.

Beginning fast from gate six, Our Rebel Yell was able to clear the polemaker Lady In Line as the start was effected and was never headed, scoring by 4.3 metres from Lady In Line along the sprint lane and Mister Jimaringle which trailed the pair from gate two on the second line finishing 3.7 metres back. The mile rate 1-59.

■ Sutton Grange trainer Ross Graham has a great record at Kilmore and 4Y0 Used To MePink Or Purple gelding At The Distance chalked up his second victory by taking the 2180 metre Jet Roofing Trotters Mobile.

Driven by Chris Alford, At The Distance settled one/one from outside the front line as Baltic Spirit (gate five) led. Pushed back a spot after Our Safari Sun went forward to park in the open.

Going forward three wide racing for the bell to race exposed before gaining cover when Rocky Valley (one/three) ma Avenger-de a swift move to join the leader shortly after, At The Distance after angling three wide on the home turn gained a last stride half head margin over a game Rocky Valley in a rate of 2-03.5. Baltic Spirit held third 13 metres away.

■ Alford made it three when Coombonna trainer Mark Gledhill’s 5Y0 Kvintet AvengerRainbowinparadise mare Midnight Avenger scored in the 1690 metre C&M Build Group Trotters Mobile.

Settling three back in the moving line from gate five as Critical Advantage led from gate two, Midnight Avenger three wide on turning finished best to gain the day by a half neck over a death-seating Macho Maori which led on straightening. Whats The Tea used the sprint lane from three pegs for third a head away, with Tetyra close up fourth in a thrilling four way finish. The mile rate 2-04.9.

■ Victory number four for Alford came up when Mount Wallace trainer Warren Greene’s 4Y0 Bling It On-Classy Dream 4Y0 mare Luna Dream starting from the pole used the sprint lane off the back of the leader and runner up Bona Khan (gate three) in the 1690 metre MC Security Pace, scoring by 3.4 metres in a rate of 2-01.9. Final Bow (three pegs) was third 4.5 metres back.

■ Kialla’s Stephen O’Donoghue landed the

Sulky Snippets Sulky Snippets

This Week

■ Wednesday – Stawell/Bendigo, Thursday – Ballarat, Friday – Mildura/Melton, Saturday – Melton, Sunday – Cranbourne, Tuesday – Shepparton.

Beraldo Coffee 0-2 LTW Pace over 2180 metres with 5Y0 Art Major-Cullens Ace gelding Followtheace.

Driven by son Corey, Followtheace settled in the second half of the field from the extreme draw as Letsgo Big Girl sped across the field from outside the front line for Alannah Logie to lead.

Making the final bend very wide to hit the front in the shadows of the post, Followtheace just lasted by a half head from Twisting By (one/ five) down the outside fence, with Im Jimmy Jones (death-one/one – three wide home turn) third 2.1 metres away. The mile rate 2-01.8.

The pair were able to bring up a double after well supported first starter 6Y0 Four Starzzz Shark-Cheerful Becky gelding Ta Kalche snared the 1690 metre DLO Plumbing 4Y0 & Older Maiden Pace.

Enjoying a sweet passage from gate two trailing Alamo which flew away from gate three, Ta Kalche used the sprint lane to prevail by a nose from Hello Sweetheart (one/three – three wide trail last lap) on the back of Reinder from the tail who was third 5.8 metres away. The mile rate 159.6.

■ Much travelled Mundoona trainer Jeremy Quinlan combined with James Herbertson to snare the 1690 metre Carlton & United Breweries Pace with 10Y0 Village Jolt-My Lady Macray gelding Nifty Jolt, leading throughout from the pole to defeat Olly Odd Potts (one/three – three wide last lap) in a mile rate of 2-01.9. Romany Brown after trailing the winner from inside the second line was third 3.6 metres back.

■ Burrumbeet breeder/owner/trainer/driver

Michael Stanley landed the 1690 metre Broadstead Kilmore 2Y0 Maiden Pace with Soho Lanikai-Our Chelsea Girl colt Captain Moore in a 1-59.7 mile rate.

Coming off a second at Cranbourne on June 30, Captain Moore possied beautifully one/one from gate two on the second line as first starter Melfield Soryt led from outside the front line. Easing three wide approaching the home turn, Captain Moore gained the upper hand on turning and just lasted by a head from Seethestars on debut which followed him throughout, with Melfield Soryt battling on gamely for third 4.8 metres away.

■ Parwan trainer/driver Jodi Quinlan was victorious with 4Y0 Creatine-Gypsy Flair mare Kaotic Flair in the Hip Pocket Workwear 4Y0 & Older Vicbred Graduate Trotters Mobile over the sprint trip of 1690 metres.

Always handy one/two from the extreme draw, Kaotic Flair ran home nicely to record a 1.7 metre margin over Fremarks Peggy (one/ one) and Oprah Double You (one/two) which followed the winner finishing 4.8 metres in arears of the runner up. The mile rate 2-03.6.

■ Melton’s Leilani Justice landed the TAB Long May We Play 3Y0 Fillies 0-2 LTW Pace over 1690 metres with Netra, a daughter of Art Major and Neverbettor in a thrilling finish. Despite racing exposed from outside the front line, Netra dug in deep to blowse the pacemaker Fearless Writer (gate five) by a head, with Vinchesha third a half head away after using the sprint lane off the back of the leader. The mile rate 1-59.3.

Trifecta at Melton

■ At Melton on Friday, Derrinal (Heathcote) trainer Glenn Bull provided the trifecta in the 2240 metre Alabar Pace when Treacheroustimes, Fake Cullection and Very Tempting ran the placings.

Melbournewide

THOMASTOWN Charges laid

■ Homicide Squad detectives have charged two men following the death of a man in Thomastown earlier this month.

A 43-year-old Lalor man wanted in relation to the incident, handed himself into police on Friday (July 19)

He has been charged with aggravated burglary, common law assault and theft and has been remanded to appear in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on November 18 alongside his co-accused.

Police were called to the fatal stabbing of a 36-year-old Doreen man at a Victoria Drive address on Thursday, July 11.

Medical assistance was provided to the Doreen man however he died at the scene.

A 45-year-old Glenroy man was arrested at the scene and charged with aggravated burglary – person present, theft and common law assault.

He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on November 18.

Police believe the incident was targeted and that parties involved were known to each other.

Detectives are seeking assistance from the public to help locate a 2013 grey Land Rover Evoque, baring registration 1CD6MJ, that they believe may have been involved in the incident.

VICTORIA SIM box fraud

■ Policing agencies across Australia joined forces in a National Day of Action, coordinated by the AFP -led Joint Policing Cybercrime Coordination Centre (JPC3), to disrupt cyber criminals allegedly using SIM boxes to scam hundreds of Australians SIM boxes are used by criminals to commit large-scale SMS phishing attacks known as ‘smishing’. Smishing is a malicious attack that uses deceptive text messages to deceive victims into downloading malware or sharing personal information.

Police have arrested five alleged offenders including three people in NSW and two people to proceed by summons in Victoria.

The alleged offenders are suspected of using SIM boxes to send fraudulent SMS phishing communications to access and obtain personal information from unsuspecting Australians via their banking or governmentaffiliated online accounts.

Members from the AFP, NSWPF, Western Australia Police Force, Tasmania Police, Queensland Police Service, and Victoria Police, worked together to execute six search warrants across a number of suburbs in New South Wales and Victoria last Thursday (July 18)

During the searches in Victoria, police located and seized three 16 slot SIM boxes, nine mobile phones, three laptops, stolen identity documents, and in excess of 500 used SIM cards from a Melbourne address.

Police also located SIM box parts, $25,000 in gift cards, two luxury watches, and a gel blaster at a Doncaster premises.

During the searches in New South Wales, Cybercrime Squad detectives seized 26 SIM boxes, thousands of mobile SIM cards, over 500 mobile phones and gift cards, $166,000 in cash and two vehicles valued at $330,000.

A Melbourne woman, 32, and Doncaster man, 29, were arrested and interviewed in relation to the Commonwealth offences of using a telecommunications network with intention to commit a serious offence and dishonestly obtaining or dealing in personal financial information. They are expected to be charged on summons.

AFP Detective Superintendent Tim Stainton said SIM boxes were cheap and malicious machines criminals used to defraud hundreds of victims at a time.

“Criminals will send millions of deceptive text messages to Australian mobile users’ casting a wide net over the entire community in an attempt to trap and defraud as many victims as possible,” Det-Supt Tim Stainton said.

“If not disrupted through police action, the SIM boxes had a combined potential to continue to distribute between four and six million fraudulent messages every day.

MYSTERY DISAPPEARANCE OF ADRIAN ROMEO

■ Detectives from the Homicide Squad are appealing for public assistance as part of their investigation into the suspicious disappearance of Craigieburn man Adrian Romeo.

Adrian was last seen by his family about 5.30pm on Saturday, February 10, at his Dempster Drive address.

The 43-year-old told his parents he was going to Greenvale to visit some associates and left the property in a gold 2004 Toyota Camry sedan.

It is believed he attended a property in Greenvale and spoke to a number of associates there.

His vehicle has not been seen since and his phone and bank cards have not been used.

He has also not contacted any family or friends.

Adrian’s family subsequently reported him missing to police on Monday, February 12.

His disappearance is considered completely out of character.

Local police initially searched for Adrian and posted information about his disappearance, however were unable to locate him or his gold Toyota Camry

. Police have spoken with a large number of Adrian’s friends and associates since his disappearance in the hope someone had heard from him or had information about his current whereabouts.

A significant CCTV canvas was also undertaken with police working through hours of footage to try and trace his last known steps.

Detectives have also received information from a number of people in relation to Adrian’s possible whereabouts or sightings, however none of these avenues of enquiry have proven fruitful.

Adrian’s disappearance is now being treated as suspicious and the investigation is being led by the Homicide Squad.

Police are keen to speak to anyone with information about Adrian’s movements in the lead up to his disappearance, or anyone who knows the current whereabouts of his gold Toyota Camry.

Investigators are also open to the possibility that the vehicle may have been dumped or sold in Adrian’s absence.

Detective Inspector Dean Thomas, Homicide Squad , said: “Adrian’s disappearance is incredibly concerning for police, as well as his friends and family. He appeared to be much loved by everyone who knew him and had a close circle of friends he had known for some years.

“Initially consideration was given that he may have left of his own accord, however a significant time has now passed with no sign of Adrian or his vehicle, and his phone and bank accounts have not been touched.

“The fact we have not been able to locate his car is especially worrying and we are keen to speak to anyone who may

Across Victoria

RIPPLEBROOK

Woman dies

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash which occurred in Ripplebrook on Saturday afternoon (July 20).

Emergency services were called to Coster Rd about 3.20pm after reports a car had left the road and crashed.

Officers attended and located the female driver, and only occupant of the vehicle, deceased at the scene.

The investigation into the crash is ongoing.

CHARLTON

Car, truck crash

■ A driver has died following a fatal collision in Charlton on Saturday morning (July 20).

It is understood a car and a truck collided at the intersection of High St and Back St Arnaud Rd about 9am.

The driver of the car died at the scene.

A passenger from the car was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries.

The driver of the truck was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

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

COHUNA

Pair arrested

■ Detectives from Taskforce Lunar have arrested two men following an arson attack at a tobacco store in Cohuna earlier this month.

A search warrant was executed at a residential address in Tarneit last Tuesday (July 16).

Observer

Statewide

know the current whereabouts of that vehicle.

“There is the potential that it has been dumped somewhere, stolen or sold and we’re keen to speak to anyone who may have seen the gold Toyota Camry

“It may potentially be sitting in a street somewhere so I urge people to keep a look out for it.

“Both local police and Homicide Squad detectives have spoken with a number of people over the past five months in an effort to trace his last steps, but no one has been able to shed any light on where he may be now.

“However, we have had a number of people provide information at various times since February about Adrian’s disappearance and so we remain confident there are people out there who know what has happened to him.

“We are hopeful that today’s appeal leads to more people coming forward.

“Any information provided to detectives will be followed up thoroughly in the hope we can provide some answers for Adrian’s family.

“Sadly, at this time we do believe Adrian has likely met with foul play.

“As such, we’re keen to speak to anyone who has information about what has happened, who may have been involved and what the motiva-

tion for harming Adrian was.

“I encourage anyone with any information at all to speak to police or information can be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers,” Dept. Insp. Thomas said.

WERRIBEE

Missing man

■ Police are appealing for public assistance as they search for missing Werribee man Quintin. The 36-year-old was last seen at an address on Brentwood Drive.

Police and family have concerns for his welfare due to a medical condition and his disappearance being out of character.

He has a solid build, curly brown hair, full beard and walks with a limp.

Quintin may be travelling in a 2017 Kia Cerato sedan in silver with the registration V3TTIE and may be headed for southern New South Wales

A 37-year-old Tarneit man was charged with two counts of criminal damage by fire, two counts of theft of motor vehicle, theft, theft from motor vehicle, possess cannabis, possess prohibited weapon and fail to provide pin.

He was remanded to appear at Mildura Magistrates’ Court on October 9.

A stolen Mazda CX5 with cloned plates which police will allege was utilised during the offence, a jerry can, a small amount of cannabis, a conducted electricity device and a small amount of cash were seized from his address.

A second warrant was executed at a residential address in Broadmeadows

A 44-year-old Broadmeadows man was arrested and was to be interviewed by police.

An Isuzu truck, stolen from a Niddrie address earlier this month, was seized from his address.

The charges follow an incident on Sunday July 7, when a car was driven into a King George St business in Cohuna around 3am before it was set alight.

Nobody was inside the premises at the time but the building was completely destroyed and the incident had significant impact on neighbouring businesses not related to the one targeted.

Detective Inspector Graham Banks, Taskforce Lunar, said:

“The estimated cost of the damage from these arson attacks is well and truly above a million dollars.

“Since Taskforce Lunar was established last October, we have arrested over 70 people involved in serious and violent offending linked to the illicit tobacco trade, and we will continue to do so.

“You will be targeted, and you will be held to account.

“But we also need the community’s help. While we understand the cost of legal tobacco is high, in purchasing illegal tobacco you are effectively funding organised crime – that money will be used in serious and violent offending such as firearms incidents, extortions, arsons, illicit drug manufacture and trafficking, and at its worst, murders,” Det. Insp. Banks said.

Melbourne ● ● Police have released these images.

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ANTIQUE DRESSING TYABLE with round mirror. 3 drawers. GC. $100. Seymour. 0422 294 977. V-Z

BARBECUE. Gas. Five burner. New ignition assembly wheels. Gas tank full. VGC. $150. Pascoe Vale. 0419 138 356. V-Z

BEDROOM SUITE. Rosewood headboard. Dressing table with large mirror. Two bedside tables with drawers. GC. $100. North Dandenong. 9795 0982. V-Z

BOAT. Savage. Kestrel 12’ tinny. Trailer. 15hp Johnson outboard. VGC. $2600. Alexandra. 0419 329 264. V-Z

FIREWOOD. Dry. Bring trailer and chain saw. Afternoons. Free. Rye. 5985 7509. V-Z

FOOTWEAR, Diana Ferrari navy woven leather, size 9. Worn once. Paid $130, sell $60. Ferntree Gully. 0407 533 560. V-Z

GENERATOR. 2200w injector 2-stroke. 91 octane fuel. Two power outlets. Used. Clean condition. $105. Doreen. 9717 3465 V-Z

GUITAR. Electric. Solid burgundy colour. Monterey make, with case and amp. GC. $200. Seymour. 0422 204 977. V-Z

HEATING OIL for domestic heating. Free. Tank approx. half full, would also be free. Ashburton. 9885 2203. V-Z

KEYBOARD STAND. Roland. Adjustable. As new. $100 ONO. Cheltenham. 0438 533 123. V-Z

LETTERBOXES. Large, new with key lock. $15. Mill Park. 9436 8935. V-Z

LP RECORDS, collectors items, organ memories, 4 records in box. Wonderful World Wonderful Music, 9 records in box. All Readers Digest. As new. $50 and $70. Frankston. 0427 953 330. V-Z

MATTRESSES. King Single and Two classic advance medium mattresses. Unused and unopened in original packaging. Selling due to change in size required. 203cm x 107cm x 24cm. Buyer to organise pick-up. As new. $200 each ONO. Cash only. Heidelberg. 0423 081 508. V-Z

MERCEDES BENZ. 2002. Vito 108 van. Colour: white. Diesel fuel. One owner, van and seats. Serviced regularly, paperwork available. 233,000 km. Reg. no. RWK-902. GC. $5500. Doncaster East. 0449 757 367. V-Z

MOBILITY WALKER. $20. Mill Park. 9436 8935. V-Z

MOBILITY WHEEL CHAIR. Shop Rider Brand. Purchased 2023. Model U18w12. Metallic redtrim two tone grey. As new. $2000. Bellfield. 9499 5896. V-Z

OZ PIG Traveller. Used twice. Comes with carry bag, heaps of ready cut firewood, fire lighters. Heavy duty grate and 4.5 quart camp oven. Still in box. VGC. $340. Montmorency. 0483 881 609. V-Z

PHONE. Black bakerlite. 50s era. Working. GC. $80. Greensborough. 0406 939 273. V-Z

SOFA BED. Zagato Licorice 2.5 seat,. Bonus includes full size foam extra mattress. As new.$400. Mt Eliza. 0412 830 241. V-Z

TYRE CHANGING KIT (amnual) for standard tyre sizes. Little used. Comes with instruction manual. GC. $115. Doreen. 9717 3465. V-Z

WALKER with basket. VGC. $45. Mornington. 0409 511 389. V-Z

WATER TANKS. 1000 litres. 2 x $100 ea. Trailer, L2m x W1.4m. Higher side rails and mounted winch, GC. $200 ONO. Seville. 0425 850 971. V-Z

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Ever expanding, The Local Paper has a waiting list for vacancies for Contractor Drivers to deliver bundles of newspapers to retail outlets. The Local Paper has regional distribution runs, north, south, south-east, east and west, as well as regional. Pick-up bundles early Tuesday from our depot at Tullamarine. Use your own vehicle, you are responsible for fuel, insurances, etc. Normal sedan-size car suitable for most runs. We publish February-December. We are currently on a print schedule that averages fortnightly. You deliver bundles to a set list of (approx. 100) newsagents, milk bars, convenience stories, petrol stations, etc. You must be responsible, fit, tidy and punctual. You send invoice as contractor with ABN. You will be paid in about 10 business days direct to your bank account.

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Incorporating the ‘Melbourne Trader’ and ‘Melbourne Advertiser’

Classifieds

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CLASSIFIED ADS

Classified ads are available each week in The Local Paper, which is published on Wednesdays, February-December (with the exception of Easter Wednesday). All Classified Ads appear in the print and online editions. It is important to check your advertisement is correct on the first day it appears. While every care is taken to ensure your advertisement is correct, errors can occur. If this happens to your ad please contact us the first day your advertisement appears and we will be happy to correct it as soon as we can.

PUBLIC NOTICES

Notice of Praecipe

Debrah Scherr© of Elsternwick,Victoria, is not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of my properties and all associated copyright protected Trade Names DEBRAH SCHERR, since unrebutted lawful Reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis also known as the Commonwealth of Australia Public Recording Number RPP4463900051002908905607, Proclamation Date 26th of April 2024 . Thus severing usufruct subjugation ties with the occupying corporate government of Australia in its entirety. Immediately cease and desist any further infringement upon these copyright protected financial instruments and cease and desist misaddressing Debrah Scherr© in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin, GLOSSA.

Public Notice of Praecipe, Tacit Acceptance and Reconveyance

Helen Jean Taylor© in care of Chirnside Park Victoria State, is not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of my properties and all associated copyright protected Trade Names HELEN TAYLOR, HELEN J. TAYLOR, HELEN JEAN TAYLOR since unrebutted lawful Reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis also known as the Commonwealth of Australia Public Recording Number RPP44 63900 05100 27206 52604, Proclamation Date 20th March 2024. Thus severing usufruct subjugation ties with the occupying corporate government of Australia in its entirety. Immediately cease and desist any further infringement upon these copyright protected financial instruments and cease and desist misaddressing Helen Jean Taylor© in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin, GLOSSA.

Notice of Praecipe

Suzanne Frances Aiello© of Hillside, Victoria, is not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of my properties and all associated copyright protected Trade Names SUZANNE DENNEHY, S.F. DENNEHY, S F DENNEHY, Suzanne DENNEHY, DENNEHY Suzanne, SUZANNE F. Dennehy, Suzanne Dennehy, Suzanne F. DENNEHY, Suzanne Frances Dennehy, SUZANNE F DENNEHY, SUZANNE F. DENNEHY, Suzanne F. Dennehy, Suzanne F. Dennehy, DENNEHY SUZANNE FRANCES, Suzanne Frances DENNEHY, SUZANNE FRANCES DENNEHY, Suzanne, SUZANNE, Suzanne F, Suzanne F., DENNEHY SUZANNE, S.D., SD, SFD, S.F.D., and SUZANNE AIELLO, AIELLO SUZANNE FRANCES, SUZANNE FRANCES AIELLO, SUZANNE F AIELLO, SUZANNE F. AIELLO, S.F. AIELLO, S F AIELLO, AIELLO SUZANNE, Suzanne F. AIELLO, Suzanne AIELLO, AIELLO Suzanne, SUZANNE F. Aiello, Suzanne F. Aiello, Suzanne Aiello, Suzanne Frances Aiello, Suzanne F. Aiello, Suzanne F. Aiello, S.A, SFA, S.F.A., and Keilor Bookkeeping Services, accounts@keilorbookkeeping.com.a., Suzanne Dennehy, Vittoria2106, Aussie Frozen Treats Pty Ltd, Polly Ood, mde0228, suz.poochie1968, and all other variations however styled, punctuated, spelled, ordered, or otherwise represented as pertaining to me and my estate, since rebutted lawful Reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis also known as the Commonwealth of Australia Public Recording number RPP4463900051002103529603, Proclamation date the 3rd day of April 2024. Thus, severing usufruct subjugation ties with the occupying corporate government of Australia in its entirety. Immediately cease and desist any further infringement upon these copyright protected financial instruments and cease and desist misaddressing Suzanne Frances Aiello© in fraudulent debased DogLatin, GLOSSA.

Public Notice of Praecipe, Tacit Acceptance and Reconveyance

Anna Maria Salerni©, of Macleod, Victoria State, is not a voluntarily transactor in commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of all associated Copyright Protected Trade Names since unrebutted lawful reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis, commonly known as The Commonwealth of Australia, Public Record Number RPP44 63900 05100 30953 88600, Proclamation Date 1 March 2024; severing Usufruct Subjugation ties with the Australia Corporation in its entirety. The occupying corporate government of Australia and its affiliates are instructed to immediately cease and desist any further infringement upon these copyright protected Financial Instruments and cease and desist misaddressing Anna Maria Salerni© in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin; Glossa.

Public Notice of Praecipe, Tacit Acceptance and Reconveyance

Carmina Patricia Trani©, of Pascoe Vale South, Victoria State, is not a voluntarily transactor in commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of all associated Copyright Protected Trade Names since unrebutted lawful reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis, commonly known as The Commonwealth of Australia, Public Record Number RPP44 63900 05100 30953 87603, Proclamation Date 29th February 2024; severing Usufruct Subjugation ties with the Australia Corporation in its entirety. The occupying corporate government of Australia and its affiliates are instructed to immediately cease and desist any further infringement upon these copyright protected Financial Instruments and cease and desist misaddressing Carmina Patricia Trani© in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin; Glossa.

Public Notice of Praecipe, Tacit Acceptance and Reconveyance

Ella Danchenko©, of Pascoe Vale South, Victoria State, is not a voluntarily transactor in commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of all associated Copyright Protected Trade Names since unrebutted lawful reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis, commonly known as The Commonwealth of Australia, Public Record Number RPP44 63900 05100 30902 13600, Proclamation Date 29th February 2024; severing Usufruct Subjugation ties with the Australia Corporation in its entirety. The occupying corporate government of Australia and its affiliates are instructed to immediately cease and desist any further infringement upon these copyright protected Financial Instruments and cease and desist misaddressing Ella Danchenko© in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin; Glossa.

Public Notice of Praecipe, Tacit Acceptance and Reconveyance

Mark Stefan Osswald© of Belmont, Victoria, is not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of my properties and all associated copyright protected Trade Names since unrebutted lawful Reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis also known as the Commonwealth of Australia Public Recording Number RPP44 63800 09400 44102 66601, Proclamation date 18th March 2024, MARK OSSWALD, M.S. OSSWALD, MS OSSWALD, OSSWALD Mark, MARK Osswald, MARK S OSSWALD, Mark Osswald, Mark Stefan OSSWALD, Mark Stefan Osswald, MARK S OSSWALD, MARK S. OSSWALD, Mark S Osswald, Mark S. Osswald, OSSWALD MARK STEFAN, OSSWALD Mark Stefan, MARK STEFAN OSSWALD, Mark, MARK, Mark S, Mark S., OSSWALD MARK, M.O., MO, MSO, M.S.O., MARK OSSWALD, OSSWALD MARK STEPHEN, MARK STEPHEN OSSWALD, MARK S OSSWALD, MARK S. OSSWALD, M.S. OSSWALD, MS OSSWALD, OSSWALD MARK, OSSWALD Mark Stephen, OSSWALD Mark , MARK Osswald, MARK S Osswald, Mark Stephen OSSWALD, Mark Osswald, Mark Stephen Osswald, Mark S Osswald, Mark S. Osswald, Mark S, Mark S., M.O., MO, MSO, M.S.O., OSSWALD MARK STEPHEN, MARK S. OSSWALD, MARK STEPHEN OSSWALD, and Dr. Plastic, DR. PLASTIC, mark@drplastic.com.au, drplastictm, www.drplastic.com.au, mark_osswald, thus severing usufruct subjugation ties with the occupying corporate government of Australia in its entirety. Immediately cease and desist any further infringement upon these copyright protected financial instruments and cease and desist misaddressing Mark Stefan Osswald© in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin, GLOSSA

info@chris-tv.com.au

Whether

The Local Paper’s giant Regional Edition covers Mansfield, Mitchell, Murrindindi, Nillumbik (rural), Strathbogie, Whittlesea (rural), Yarra Ranges.

The Local Paper’s Melbourne Press Network publishes localised editions for 40 local government areas including:

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

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

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

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

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