The Local Paper. Regional Edition. Wed., Feb.. 19, 2025

PETITION TO AXE WHITTLESEA MAYOR

■ Residents in the City of Whittlesea are gathering a petition that calls for Cr Aidan McLindon to be removed as Mayor of the municipality.

More than 1100 people have already signed the petition that says:

“We, the residents of the City of Whittlesea, call on the resignation of the Mayor as the residents have lost faith in his ability to carry out the duties of Mayor.

“After only nine weeks in office, he has chosen to seek election for the seat of Werribee, raising concerns about his commitment to the responsibilities and obligations that come with leading our community.

“The position of Mayor demands full attention, dedication, and focus on the needs and wellbeing of the residents of Whittlesea

“The current Mayor’s decision to pursue another political role so soon after being elected to serve our city reflects a disregard for the trust placed in him by the residents.

“His actions suggest that he is more focused on advancing his personal political career rather than fulfilling the promises he made to the community.

“:The residents of Whittlesea deserve a Mayor who prioritises their interests and dedicates the necessary time and effort to serve the city effectively.

“We believe that the Mayor’s actions have undermined public confidence and trust in his leadership.

“Therefore, we respectfully call for his resignation and the election of a new Mayor who is committed to serving the people of Whittlesea with integrity and dedication.”

CRISIS TIME FOR LOCAL COUNCIL

■ The City of Whittlesea has a Mayor, Aidan McLindon, who would have preferred to have been the Member of Parliament for Werribee, 58 kilometres away. He won just 267 votes (0.64 per cent) of the total 41,749 votes cast in this month’s Werribee by-election.

The municipality has a $390,000-a-year Chief Executive Officer, Craig Lloyd, who has been pursuing a part-time career in country music at Tamworth in New South Wales, and was due to be MC at a music festival this month in Tasmania.

Councillors this month voted to organise arbitration to discuss their belief that Mayor Cr Aidan McLindon breached the Model Councillor Code of Conduct on multiple occasions.

Deputy Mayor Cr Daniela Zinni was authorised by her colleagues to write to Local Government Minister Melissa Horne.

Mayor Cr Aidan McLindon had indicated that he was taking from January 23 to February 8, yet attended to chair the February 4 ‘nonscheduled’ meeting. He chaired the meeting about his own conduct, but abstained from voting.

● ● Aidan McLindon, Whittlesea Mayor

● ● Craig Lloyd, Whittlesea CEO, and part-time country music entertainer

The Local Paper

Weather affects SDCA games

■ Saturday’s wet weather affected Seymour District Cricket Association matches.

A-GRADE

Puckapunyal Senior Mixed 10/79 v Seymour 10/111. At Puckapunyal Cricket Ground.

Yea Tigers A Grade v Alexandra A Grade. At Yea Recreation Reserve. Abandoned.

Tallarook A Grade 0/137 v Pyalong A Grade 10/134. At Tallarook Recreation Reserve .

B-GRADE

Seymour B Grade 9/102 vYea Tigers B Grade 7/184. At Chittick Park (East).

Pyalong B Grade 10/110 v Alexandra B Grade 3/116. Pyalong Recreation Reserve

Avenel Senior Men 9/122 v Tallarook B Grade 9/118. Avenel Recreation Reserve

● ● More cricket results on Pages 39 and 41

Bird flu at second Euroa property

Bird flu flu has been detected at a second farm at Euroa

Agriculture Victoria said on Thursday (Feb. 13) that its tracing activities confirmed the presence of H7N8 avian influenza (bird flu) at one new property/

Victoria’s Acting Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Cameron Bell said this result was not unexpected.

“There are known connections between the properties, which was how we identified high-priority testing sites early, even before disease was suspected,” Dr Bell said.

Dr Bell thanked the impacted properties in the region for their cooperation.

“After we confirmed the first property last week, we implemented restricted and control areas immediately to mitigate risks of disease spread.’

The control area spans east of the Goulburn Valley Highway for Strathbogie Shire, and includes townships Euroa, Violet Town, Longwood, Ruffy, Avenel and Strathbogie.

“If you are in the control or restricted areas, you cannot move birds, products (including eggs and manure) or equipment into, out of, or within the area without a permit.

“This includes selling or giving away eggs from your poultry – these must not leave your property.”

With the confirmation of a second property, a housing requirement has been introduced for producers with more than 50 poultry in the restricted area.

This is a smaller area than the control area and includes Euroa and extends approximately 5 km from 5 km from the affected properties in all directions.

● ● James Wallace, a Ned Kelly sympathiser, became Principal of Yea State School. Author Peter Newman was in Yea this week to promote his new book. Details of James Wallace are on Page 16.

The Local 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 31 years)

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Editor: Ash Long

Kemp, Art Rob Foenander,

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, Lyn Hurst, Kathryn Keeble, Beth Klein, Graeme McCoubrie, David McLean, Maggie Morrison, Peter Murphy, Lucy Nicolson, Jill Page, Elizabeth Semmel

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Ash on Wednesday Help for forestry towns

■ The State Government says that it is helping to create more jobs in former forestry towns, increasing employment and delivering a boost to the local economy.

Ros Spence, Minister for Agriculture announced $50,000 for Four Peaks Pastoral Pty Ltd to expand their business and employ former forestry workers as part of Round 1 of the Forestry Transition Fund.

The business utilises the local skilled workforce to provide farmers and producers around Omeo, Swifts Creek and surrounding district with agricultural services.

Business owner Stewart Moroney started the business after seeing a need for workers with unique skill sets to supplement the agricultural workforce in peak periods.

Four Peaks provides a range of agricultural services, including fencing, shearing, pest control and harvest support.

The grant will enable Four Peaks to purchase equipment including tool kits, portable livestock handling equipment and a vehicle mounted spray system.

The business will employ full time farm support workers with general skill sets for the initial start-up phase, with a preference to employ workers previously employed in the native timber industry.

Round 2 of the Forestry Transition Fund is now open. Proposal must supports job creation and business development in communities im-

Long Shots

pacted by the end of native timber harvesting.

A $20,000 employment incentive payment for the employment of ex-native timber workers is also available.

Applications for Round 2 will close on October 31

“Four Peaks is a great example of where an enterprising community member has seen a need for skilled labour and found a way to fill that gap, while also providing employment opportunities for ex-native timber workers,” said Ms Spence.

Eastern Victoria MLC Tom McIntosh said: “The Forestry Transition Fund has already supported many exciting projects throughout Gippsland, and I look forward to seeing more coming through round 2 of the grant program.”

Stewart Moroney, Four Peaks Pastoral Pty Ltd owner, said: “The Transition Fund Round 1 grant has accelerated the business by at least two years in terms of growth. It’s been incredible.

“The grant has allowed us to purchase plant and equipment so we’re able to create employment opportunities for the local region,” Mr Moroney said.

Aid’s 10 years

■ Rural Aid is celebrating its 10th anniversary.

Australian Livestock & Property Agents Association Ltd has named Rural Aid as its official charity partner for the year.

The Local Paper

In association with the Established September 14, 1969 Online weekly. Print copies fortnightly. Published in localised editions in 40 areas across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and some country areas.

MANSFIELD

Mansfield readership is in the township of Mansfield. The Mansfield Shire comprises Ancona, Barjarg, Barwite, Bonnie Doon, Boorolite, Bridge Creek, Delatite, Gaffneys Creek, Goughs Bay, Howes Creek, Howqua, Howqua Hills, Howqua Inlet, Jamieson, Kevington, Lake Eildon, Nillahcootie, Piries, Sawmill Settlement, Tolmie, Woodfield and Woods Point. Mansfield Shire is home to 10,546 people, living in approximately 6612 homes.

MITCHELL

Incorporating the traditions of the Seymour Express (Est. 1872) Mitchell Shire comprises Beveridge, Broadford, Kilmore, Puckapunyal, Seymour, Tallarook, Tooborac, Trawool, Wallan, Wandong and Heathcote Junction. Mitchell Shire is home to more than 49,216 people, living in approximately 16,321 homes.

MURRINDINDI

Incorporating the traditions of the Yea Advertiser (Est. 1995). Murrindindi comprises Acheron, Alexandra, Buxton, Cathkin, Castella, Caveat, Devils River, Dropmore, Eildon, Fawcett, Flowerdale, Ghin Ghin, Glenburn, Gobur, Granton, Highlands, Homewood, Kanumbra, Kerrisdale, Killingworth, Kinglake, Kinglake Central, Kinglake West, Koriella, Limestone, Maintongoon, Marysville, Molesworth, Murrindindi, Narbethong, Pheasant Creek, Rubicon, Strath Creek, Taggerty, Taylor Bay, Terip Terip, Thornton, Toolangi, Whanregarwen, Yarck, Yea. Murrindindi Shire is home to more than 14,478 people, living in approximately 6293 homes.

NILLUMBIK (RURAL)

Incorporating the traditions of the Diamond Valley Advertiser (Est. 1995) and The Advertiser (earlier Evelyn Observer) (Est. Oct. 31, 1873)

Nillumbik Shire (rural) comprises Arthurs Creek, Bend of Islands, Christmas Hills, Cottles Bridge, Diamond Creek, Doreen, Eltham, Eltham North, Hurstbridge, Kangaroo Ground, Kinglake, Kinglake Central, Kinglake West, Nutfield, Panton Hill, Plenty, Research, Smiths Gully, St Andrews, Strathewen, Warrandyte North, Watsons Creek. Nillumbik Shire is home to more than 64,659 people, living in approximately 21,753 homes.

STRATHBOGIE (PART)

Starthbogie readership area comprises Avenel, Euroa, Nagambie, Violet Town. Strathbogie Shire is home to more than 11,578 people, living in approximately 5768 homes.

WHITTLESEA (RURAL)

Incorporating the traditions of the Whittlesea Advertiser (Est. 1995) Whittlesea Post (Est. 1924), and The Advertiser (earlier Evelyn Observer) (Est. Oct. 31, 1873) Whittlesea Post readership area comprises Arthurs Creek, Beveridge, Donnybrook, Doreen, Eden Park, Hazel Glen, Humevale, Kinglake West, Mernda, South Morang, Whittlesea, Wollert, Woodstock, Yan Yean. The City of Whittlesea is home to more than 197,491 people, living in approximately 71,014 homes.

YARRA RANGES

Incorporating the traditions of the Lilydale and Yarra valley Express (Est. June 30, 1886)

Yarra Ranges readership area comprises Badger Creek, Chirnside Park, Chum Creek, Coldstream, Dixons Creek, Don Valley, East Warburton, Fernshaw, Gilderoy, Gladysdale, Gruyere, Healesville, Hoddles Creek, Launching Place, Lilydale, Millgrove, Mooroolbark, Mount Evelyn, Powelltown, Seville, Seville East, Steels Creek, Wandin East, Wandin North, Warburton, Wesburn, Wonga Park (part), Woori Yallock, Yarra Glen, Yarra Junction, Yellingbo and Yering. Yarra Ranges Shire is home to more than 158,831 people, living in approximately 58,509 homes.

Cheryl Threadgold, Local Theatre

Julie Houghton, The Arts

Trask, Entertainment

Rourke, Film Ted Ryan, Horse Racing Len Baker, Harness Racing Matt

Music

Statewide

LAVERTON NORTH

Unlucky 13th

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a fatal motor vehicle collision in Laverton North on Thursday night (Feb. 13).

Emergency services responded to reports of a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Dohertys and Fitzgerald Rds about 10.10pm.

A passenger from the first vehicle died at the scene.

The driver of that vehicle was taken to hospital.

The occupants of the second vehicle did not suffer any serious injuries.

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision remains ongoing.

Investigators are keen to speak to anyone with dash cam footage or anyone who may have witnessed the crash.

- Victoria Police

THORNBURY

Fire at flat

■ Fire Rescue Victoria crews responded to reports of a flat on fire in Thornbury about 4.30am Thursday (Feb. 13)following multiple Triple Zero (000 calls).

Crews arrived on scene within 3.5 minutes to find smoke and flames issuing from a flat on the second storey of a brick unit development.

FRV crews donned breathing apparatus, made entry and began an internal attack on the fire as well as protecting the adjoining flats.

There were no occupants found in any of the fire-affected flats.

The fire was deemed under control by 5.30am.

The cause of the fire is being deemed suspicious at this stage and has been referred to Victoria Police for investigation.

Ambulance Victoria also attended.

- Fire Rescue Victoria

NO CONFIDENCE VOTE IN CHIEF COMMISSIONER

■ Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patton was the subject of a vote of no confidence on Friday (Feb. 14).

It means that Mr Patton will not be offered a second fiveyear contract by the State Labor Government.

More than 12,000 rank-andfile members are said to have participated in the vote.

Police Minister Anthony Carbines said he acknowledged the vote and valued the hard work of police.

“A process is under way for the role of the Chief Commissioner of Police and it would be inappropriate to comment further,” Mr Carbines said.

Last week’s vote showed 87.13 per cent of members polled had no confidence in the Chief Commissioner . More than 14,500 members voted in the poll.

Police Association Victoria President, Karl David, said his members did not have confidence in the Chief Commissioner to manage and lead Victoria Police in the future.

“Our members need urgent fixes to critical failings in policing and for this to occur there needs to be change at the top with a fresh direction.

“Our members have cited concerns with a force in decline, struggling to deliver basic policing services,” Mr David said.

Statewide

SOMERTON

Road rage arrests

■ Police have arrested two men following a road rage incident where the victim was allegedly assaulted by a group of motorcyclists.

It is understood a man was travelling north on Sydney Rd in a black Volkswagen Golf sedan when a group of motorcyclists drove erratically in front of him about 10.30pm.

There was allegedly an altercation between the driver and the riders at the intersection of Sydney Rd

The riders allegedly assaulted the 46-yearold Donnybrook man, who was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Officers from Broadmeadows Police Station executed search warrants at residential properties in Altona Meadows, Broadmeadows and Greenvale on Tuesday last week (Feb. 12).

A 17-year-old Greenvale teen and a 19year-old Altona Meadows man were arrested.

Police also seized clothing, mobile phones, computers, and CCTV systems.

The pair have since been released, and are expected to be charged on summons with dangerous driving offences.

Police will allege that the group was undertaking in an organised high risk riding event prior to the assault occurring.

Enquiries are ongoing into the identity of the other motorcyclists involved in the assault and investigators have released CCTV footage of a rider to whom they wish to speak.

Acting Inspector Shayne Kerley - Hume Local Area Commander said: “The community has an expectation to use the roads free from dangerous and unsafe behaviour.

“If certain people feel they can use the roads like a racetrack, put other roads users at risk, or assault people, then expect a visit from us,” Acting Insp. Kerley said.

● Shane Patton resigned on Sunday night.

Statewide

M’cyclist dead

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash in Timmering Officers were called to the vicinity of Webb Rd and Watson Rd about 3.45pm reports a motorcycle had left the road and the male rider had been located deceased.

The man was located by police and the investigation into the crash is ongoing.

PAKENHAM Shooting probe

■ Armed Crime Squad detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding a shooting in Pakenham on Sunday morning (Feb. 16).

Police have been told three men attended a Ripplebrook Walk address shortly after 1am.

It is believed an altercation occurred between a male occupant from the address and the three men, resulting in one of the trio being shot.

The wounded man was transported to hospital with serious injuries and remains under police guard.

The male occupant remained at the scene and will be interviewed by police.

Other occupants at home at the time were not physically injured.

It is believed that two men fled the scene prior to police arrival.

Despite a thorough search of the area, the remaining two men were not located.

A crime scene wsas established while detectives investigate to determine what occurred.

VICTORIA

Record year

■ More than 78,000 solar panels, hot water systems and batteries have been installed across Victoria in 2024 – the largest year on record. Families can save at least $1600 with a battery.

OPPORTUNITY TO NAME WEST GATE TUNNELS

■ Victorians are being called upon to help name the West Gate Tunnel Project’s twin tunnels.

Gabrielle Williams, Minister for Transport Infrastructure, asked people to submit names for the twin tunnels that will deliver a vital alternative to the West Gate Bridge and remove 9000 trucks off local roads.

Possible names could recognise the west’s local legends, landmarks, history, or cultural heritage.

All submissions will be reviewed by a selection committee and the final names will be revealed later this year before motorists drive through the tunnels.

Every Victorians who submits a valid entry will go into the draw to win a $500 Shell Coles Express voucher – and the winners will also have the opportunity to donate $2500 towards a community organisation or charity.

Submissions are open until Monday, March 31. To learn more about how you can name the West Gate Tunnel Project’s twin tunnels, visit westgatetunnelproject.vic.gov.au/ nameyourtunnels

The West Gate Tunnel Project will transform travel in Melbourne’s west. It will also create 14 kilometres of new and upgraded walking and cycling paths.

Statewide

MELBOURNE

Breach alleged

■ A Sudan-born man appeared before Melbourne Magistrates' Court last Thursday (Feb. 13) harged with allegedly failing to comply with his visa-mandated curfew conditions.

The man, 28, was arrested after he was located in Melbourne. It was alleged he breached conditions of his Commonwealth visa by failing to observe his residential curfew obligations and failing to maintain his electronic monitoring device.

The man has been charged with:

■ Six counts of failing to comply with a curfew condition, contrary to section 76C(1) of the Migration Act; and

■ One count of failing to comply with his visa-mandated conditions relating to an electronic monitoring device, contrary to section 76D(3) of the Migration Act.

The matter is next in court on May 22.

Each of these offences carry a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment and/or a $93,900 fine.

MELBOURNE

Doctor suspended

■ The Royal Melbourne Hospital has suspended cardiothoracicsurgeon Marco Larobina for allegedly making “disparaging” comments about a colleague he claimed “killed a patient”, court documents have revealed.

The Herald Sun reportts that Larobina was suspended in November last year while the Hospital investigated him for “disparaging and harmful comments about another surgeon’s competence and the competence of the cardiothoracic unit”.

The allegations of a wrongful patient death – which are disputed – emerged in Federal Court, after Mr Larobina took legal action against the hospital over his suspension.

Matters about the case continue to be under investigation, said reporter Sarah Booth.

Gabrielle Williams, State Minister

Muddy Creek: home to Taungurung people

■ Prior to the arrival of Europeans the Yea area was home to the Waring Illum Balluk group of the Taungurung First Nation people.

The first Europeans in the area were the party of explorers William Hovell and Hamilton Hume who crossed the Yea River near the site of Yea in 1824.

Their favourable report of the grazing land led to the settlement of Victoria.

First settlers in the district were overlanders from New South Wales who arrived in 1837. Peter Snodgrass licensed the Murrindindi Run in that year.

Most of the good land on the Goulburn River had been taken up by 1839. Yea was developed on the Murrindindi run.

John Cotton established the Doongallook Run west of Yea in 1843.

The first town was known as Muddy Creek. It was established by 1855.

The first sale of town lots occurred in 1856.

The Yea River was called Muddy Creek until 1878.

The town was surveyed and laid out by Thomas Pinniger, a government surveyor, in 1855 with town lots going on sale at Kilmore in 1856.

Gold was discovered in the area in 1859 and a number of smaller mining settlements came into existence at this time, including Molesworth. Yea grew as a service centre to the diggers. Continued Next Page

photo of Muddy Creek (Yea), looking east, colourised by The Local Paper, is said to have been taken in 1855.

● ● From previous page

A school was established by the Anglican and Presbyterian churches in 1859.

A road board was established in 1869.

An Anglican church was erected in 1868 and Yea became a shire in 1873, at which time the population was about 250.

The floods of 1870 washed away roads and bridges in the district.

When the gold ran out, the town survived on the back of farming and timbergetting.

The railway from Tallarook arrived in 1883. It required over 20 bridges.

Yea was promoted as something of a tourist centre in the 1890s with trout being released into King Par- rot Creek to attract recreational anglers.

A butter factory was built in 1891.

There was a proposal in 1908 to submerge the town under the Trawool Water Scheme but it never

went ahead. By 1911 the town's population was 1126.

Electricity was connected to the town in 1922.

The Yea Fountain was officially opened in 1928. That year saw the town win the Victorian Tidy Town award.

★ The name ‘Yea’ first came to local prominence in 1855, when Lacy Walter Giles Yea (May 20, 1808June 18, 1855), a British Army colonel, known for his role in the Crimean War, was killed in action.

Earlier that year (January 17),

The Age reported on Colonel Yea in an account of the ‘Battle of Alma’:

“One villain with a red coat on his back, I regrct to say, I saw go up to a wounded Russian who was rolling on the earth in the rear of the 7th Regiment, and before we could say a word, he discharged his rifle right through the wretched creature's brains.

Yea regarded as military hero

■ The Yea district was named after Colonel Yea, soon after he was killed in battle. The Geelong Advertiser (September 27, 1855) reported of the military battle:

“Poor Colonel Yea saw the consequences too clearly. Having in vain tried to obviate the evil caused by the broken formation and confusion of his men, who were failing fast around him, he exclaimed, "This will never do! Where's the bugler to call them back ?"

“But, alas! At that critical moment no bugler was to be found, The gallant old soldier, by voice and gesture, tried to form and compose his men, but the thunder of the enemy's guns close at hand and the gloom of early dawn frustrated his efforts; and as lie rushed along the troubled mrass of troops which were herding together under the rush of grape, and endeavoring to get them into order for a rush of the batteries, which was better than standing still or retreating in panic, a charge of the deadly missile passed, and the noble soldier fell dead in advance of his men, struck at once in head and stomach by grape shot.”

The Mount Alexander Mail (October 26, 1855) has a correspondent’s report: “I saw in one place two of our men, apart from the rest, with melancholy faces. “What are you waiting here for?'' said I. "To go out for the Colonel, Sir," was the reply. 'What Colonel?' "Why, Colonel Yea, to be sure, Sir," said the good ' fellow, who was evi dently surprised at my thinking there conld be any other Colonel in the world.”

Local History

“Colonel Yea rode at him to cut him down, but the fellow excused himself by declaring the Russian was going to shoot him.

“This was the single act of inhumanity I saw perpetrated by this army hushed with victory and animated by angry passions, although the wounded enemy had unquestionably endangered their lives by acts of ferocious folly.

“Many of the Russians had small crosses and chains fastened round their necks. Several were found with Korans in their knapsacks; most probably recruits from the Kasan Tartars.”

On September 27, 1855, The Age reported on Colonel Yea’s death in the asttack on the Redan:

“ Major-General Sir John Campbell, who led the left attack; and Colonel Shadforth, of the 57th Regiment, who commanded the storming party under his direction, were both killed.

“There were also killed Colonel Yea, of the Royal Fusiliers, who led the right column.

“Speaking of the attack, Lord Raglan says: ‘The superiority of our fire on the day we opened, led both General Pelissier and myself, and the officers of the Artillery and Engineers of the two services, and the armies in general, to conclude that the Russian artillery fire was in agreat measure subdued, and that the operations we projected, could be undertaken with every prospect of success’.

Colonel Yea was described as having occasional brusqueness of manner “which concealed a most kind heart, and a more thorough soldier, one more devoted to his men, to the service, and to his country, never fell in battle than Lacy Yea. I have reason to know that he felt his great services and his arduous exer tions had not been rewarded as he had a right to expect.”

Reputation as a martinet

■ Lacy Walter Giles Yea (May 20, 1808–June 18, 1855) was born in Park Row, Bristol, on May 20, 1808, he was eldest son of Sir William Walter Yea, second baronet, of Pyrland, near Taunton, Somerset, who married, on June 24, 1805, Anne Heckstetter (d. 1846), youngest daughter of Colonel David Michel of Dulish House, Dorset Lacy Yea was educated at Eton College. He was commissioned as ensign in the 37th foot on October 6, 1825, obtained an unattached lieutenancy on December 19, 1826, was appointed to the 5th Foot on March 13, 1827, and exchanged to the 7th (Royal Fusiliers) on March 13, 1828. He served with it in the Mediterranean and America, becoming captain December 30, 1836, major on June 3, 1842, and lieutenantcolonel on August 9. 1850.

In 1854 he went out in command of the Royal Fusiliers to Turkey and the Crimea , with a reputation as martinet. At the battle of Alma his regiment was on the right of the Light Division, and became engaged with the left wing of the Kazan Regiment, a deep column of 1500 men.

The Fusiliers held their own against this column when the rest of Sir William Codrington's brigade had fallen back, and at length forced it to give way. The regiment lost twelve officers and more than 200 men. Yea received a letter of congratulation from Sir Edward Blakeney, who had led the regiment at Albuera, and was now its colonel.

Yea was praised by Lord Raglan, in his despatch of June 19; and by Sir William Codrington, then commanding the Light Division, to Yea's sisters. His eldest sister put up a marble monument to him in his parish church of Taunton St. James's, Somerset. A headstone marked his grave in the cemetery at Sevastopol Yea was unmarried. His father survived him, dying on May 20, 1862, when the baronetcy passed to Lacy's younger brother, Sir Henry Lacy Yea (d. 1864), third and last baronet.

● ● Colonel Lacy Walter Giles Yea

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

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■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Corner Hotel. 65 Grant St.

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

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

Court Lists

Local Briefs

Nillumbik grants

■ ALEXANDRA. Endeavour

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Alexandra (BP). 10 Downey St.

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■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Foodworks. 102 Grant St.

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■ ALEXANDRA. Mount Pleasant Hotel. 90 Grant St.

■ ■ ■ ■ WATTLE GLEN. Peppers Paddock General Store. 13 Kangaroo Ground-Wattle Glen Rd.

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

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

■ ■ WESBURN. Hotel. 2882 Warburton Hwy.

■ WONGA PARK. IGA Xpress.

70 Jumping Creek Rd.

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

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■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Nutrien Harcourts. 56 Grant St.

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Shamrock Hotel. 80 Grant St.

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

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Totally Trout. 42 Downey St.

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

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

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

■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Whittlesea NewsXpress. 45 Church St.

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

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

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

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

■ ■ BUXTON. Buxton Hotel. 2192 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ BUXTON. Shell Buxton. 2093 Maroondah Hwy.

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

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

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

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

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■ ■ YARCK. Yarck Hotel. Maroondah Hwy.

■ 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.

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

■

■ EILDON. Foodworks. 18 Main St.

■ ■ YEA. Amble Inn Cafe. 24 High St.

■

■ YEA. Country Club Hotel. 18 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Hotel. 100 High St.

■ ■ BROADFORD. Broadford Newsagency. 67 High St.

■

■

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

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

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■

■

■ EPPING. Epping RSL. Harvest Home Rd.

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

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

■ ■ 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.

■

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

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Post Office. 123 High St.

■

■ YEA. Foodworks. 10 High St.

■

■ YEA. Giddy Coat Cafe. 94

High St.

■ ■ YEA. Grand Central Hotel. 64

High St.

■

■ ■ ■ YEA. Marmalades. 20 High St.

■

■ ■ ■ YEA. Mint and Jam. 46 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Service Station. 165 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

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.

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

■

■ YEA. Yea Bakery. 44 High St.

■ ■ KILMORE. Kilmore Bakery. 54 Sydney St.

■

■ ■ ■ YEA. Yea Newsagency. 74

High St.

■ ■ YEA. Yea Take-Away. 68 High St.

Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express Edition

■ 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.

■

■

■ ■ MARYSVILLE. Foodworks. 40A Darwin St.

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

■ ■ 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.

■ ■ 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.

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Coles Express. 123 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Grand Hotel. 270 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Healesville Newsagency. 195 Maroondah Hwy.

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

■ ■ SEYMOUR. Seymour NewsXpress. 66 Station St.

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

■ 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.

■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook General Store. 36 Main Rd.

■

■

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

■

■

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

■

■ ■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook Hotel. 15 Main Rd.

■

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

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

■

■

■ ■ LILYDALE. Lilydale Newsagency. 237 Main St.

■

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

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

■ 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.

■ Community groups, not-for-profits, and local clubs will soon have the chance to apply for grants of up to $5000 from a total pool of $120,000 under the Nillumbik Community Fund.

Applications close March 23, with successful projects announced in June.

The Fund supports community organisations, clubs, and artists who live, work, study, volunteer, or play in Nillumbik

The fund aims to empower projects and activities that address community needs, strengthen connections, and bring lasting benefits to Nillumbik Shire

Mayor Cr John Dumaresq said the fund’s purpose aligns with the goals set out in the Council Plan 2021-2025

“The Nillumbik Community Fund reflects the themes of the current Council Plan, which include equity and inclusion, strengthening social connections, environmental sustainability and good governance,” Cr Dumaresq said.

“By funding projects that celebrate diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability, we’re fostering a more connected and resilient community.

“If you’re part of a community group or organisation with a project in mind, and you need some backing, I urge you to apply. These grants can help bring your vision to fruition,” Cr Dumaresq said.

Last year, the Fund funded a diverse range of programs, including an Indian music festival, a mental health initiative, a literary festival, a clean energy program and a bushfire preparation project.

There is no limit to the number of applications an organisation can submit, and each will be considered based on its potential to deliver significant benefits to the community.

Help sessions

■ Applications for the 3-year-old kindergarten program in 2026 and the 4-year-old program in 2027 are now open in the City of Whittlesea.

.

Help sessions are available for families who need support completing their kindergarten applications. These sessions provide assistance with:

■ Completing application forms

■ Understanding immunisation requirements

■ Learning about Early Start Kinder, a program for eligible families.

Upcoming help session dates

■ February 26, 10am – 11.30am

Read, Play and Connect Thomastown Library – 52 Main Street Thomastown

■ March 20, 10am – 11.30am

Read, Play and Connect

Mill Park Library – 394 Plenty Road Mill Park

■ April 8, 10am – 12 Noon Stay and Play Pop-Up Lalor Shops – 47-71 May Road Lalor (In front of Lalor Coles)

■ April30 , 9am – 3pm Stay and Play Pop-Up

Pacific Epping – 571-583 High Street Epping Interpreter services will be available for families from non-English-speaking backgrounds to ensure everyone receives the support they need.

Bruce Coghill nod

■ Kalkallo MLA Ros Spence has spoken in State Parliament about Bruce Coghill’s service to the community.

■

■

■ ■ 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.

■

■ ■ ■ 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.

■ ■ WARRANDYTE. Grand Hotel.

140 Yarra St.

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

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

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

Seymour Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Thursday, February 20 Azzopardi, Josh Beasley, Jodie Elizabeth Berryman, Hayden Binks - Brown, William Bouwmeester, Matthew Campbell, Neil R Clegg, Crisafi,RickyDominic Davy, Adam Doyle, Farmer,JamieAmanda Grant, Travis John Hancy, Paul Harris, Hartman,BradleyDavid Hyatt, Jackson,MichaelTaylor Jade Karajanov, James Kilroy, Seth Kirby, Cameron Andrew Micallef, James Francis Miller, Duncan Millman, Adam Mitchell, Rodney Mudd, Eric Shawn Osborne, Dean Mitchell Oz Timber Pty Ltd Paine, Pearson,KaydJayde Pullin, Joshua Pym, Repic,AaronNicholas Petar Reynolds, Grant Allan Rickard, Katelyn Rizzo, Nando Rowbottom, Tahlia Salakowski, Stacey Shannahan, Daniel Smith, Melissa Stewart, Swanwick,AyeshaBelinda Tasiyan, Paul Ustuner, Abdulkerim Volkmer, Keelan Friday, February 21 Brazier, Scott Doyle, Christopher David Saunders, Chris Wayne Stevens, Aaron Williams Monday, February 24 Glazebrook, Corey Oliver, James Mansfield Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, February 19 Adams, Dean Stewart Adams, Skye Anstee, Riley Britton, Gregory Clark, Daniel Douglas-Rhoderick, Arabel Marie Findlay, Jaden Jones, Oconnor,WyattSam Panyangara, Tinashe Pilcher, Aaron Michael Pritchett, Tanner Saliba, Michael Spizzo, Leon Strongman, Matthew Wagenknecht, Kaylah-Jane Wednesday, March 5 Adam, Stuart James Aliu, Babai,ErjanVahid Barden, Jacob Barron, Ariena Bennett, Lucy Bishop, Corrie John Bradley, Paul Gregory Bushby, Michael Clark, Daniel Clarke, Duane Coffey, Samuel James Dietrich, Daniel John Fitzgerald, Lana Maree Gall, Steward Goschnick, Dean Gregory Hollingdale, Taine Koala Cherries Pty Ltd Legge, Simon Lia, Mcleod,LyndaBenjamin James Meadows, Roger Nicholls, Richard David Pitt, Andrew Reid, Brody James Rowan, Scott Santori, Robert Seamer, Courtney Shakes, Olivia Matilda Strongman, Sundbloom,Matthew Elle Syme, Angus Ian Tatham, Jarrod Tunidau, Anasa White, Brian Gibson Williams, Matthew Young, Steven Zerbe, Andrew

“ I am very pleased to recognise and thank a local constituent in my electorate, Bruce Coghill. Bruce embodies community service and dedication. For over a decade this remarkable man, nearing 80, has tirelessly worked to keep our streets and public spaces clean and welcoming. Rain or shine, every morning Bruce makes his rounds along Chelsworth Loop, Malcolm Creek Parade, Beckett Way and other local streets, picking up rubbish and disposing of it properly. His commitment is unwavering. Even recent illness and chemotherapy have not deterred him – he returned to his efforts immediately after being discharged from hospital, demonstrating extraordinary dedication.”

DAIRY CREEK LIGHTS TO STAY UNTIL APRIL

● ● ● ● Cindy McLeish MLA at the Dairy Creek bridge

■ Traffic lightds at Dairy Creek Bridge on the Goulburn Valley Hwy, west of Yea, will remain in place until mid-April, according to Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish.

“The office of the Minister for Roads confirmed the Dairy Creek bridge railing is currently being fabricated off site and that works are scheduled to take place in midApril at which point there would have been only one lane open for 12 months on the major highway,” Ms McLeish told The Local Paper.

“Last year the Allan Labor Government missed their own deadline, having originally anticipated works to replace the barrier on the bridge would occur in late 2024, with the road reopened for use by early 2025.”

Ms McLeish said the delay in planned works now means the Melba Hwy will be closed at the same time.

“I expect now the additional traffic directed onto the Goulburn Valley Hwy due to the Melba Hwy closure will quite quickly become banked up.

“This will include large trucks that will be faced with the Dairy Creek Bridge traffic management light.

“Locals are concerned about the prolonged detour travel time, influx of traffic and the risk it adds to bushfire escape routes.

“The Goulburn Valley Hwy is a fairly busy commuter road and people have to suffer this every single day. It will only be made all the more difficult now with the closure of the Melba Highway,” Ms McLeish said.

Ticks & Crosses

✔Works on the Burke and Wills Track Pavement Rehabilitation project in are now underway. Burke and Wills Track is a collector road located in the north-west of the Mitchell Shire. The $2.3 million project is around Glenhope, west of Tooboorac.

✔Seymour River and Ranges Music Festival (Saturday, March 15) tickets are now ready to book. This free, community event is hosted by Mitchell Shire Council at Kings Park. The line-up includes The Black Sorrows, country rising star Taylor Sheridan, festival favourites Kingswood and country duo Carter & Carter. There are also community performances including dance, bands and DJs.

?Nillumbik Council is launching its Now and Beyond feedback program. It wnats to hear from locals about their thoughts and aspirations to help shape the future of the Shire. Survey results will support the development of the Council Plan 2025-29 and the Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025-29 to be adopted by Councillors.

Local News

‘Ash should be alive today’

■ State Opposition Leader Brad Battin has asked questions about what Premier Jacinta Allan’s Government has done since the murder of Eltham doctor Ash Gordon in a home invasion at Doncaster.’

“We have all heard about Ash Gordon. We all know the story, and he should be alive today,” Mr Battin said.

“Instead his family is grieving and Victoria is questioning why someone on bail was given the opportunity to go and take Ash’s life.

“His family has spoken out about demanding action in the justice system.

“Natalie Gordon, the sister of Dr Gordon, said the legal system was a joke.

‘It’s just the same thing time and time again,’ she said.

“On A Current Affair seven months ago she also said: ‘Unfortunately they are reoffending more times than not, so why do we keep letting them back out into society? … the government should change laws to make it harder to grant bail and easier to keep them in’.

“I truly believe we need to bring in harsher penalties for lesser crimes so we’re stopping them from getting to this point in their lives,” Ms Gordon said.

Mr Battin continued: “Speaker, we know on this side of the house. We tried to introduce tougher bail laws. We wanted to revert to them because people like Ash Gordon should be still with their family.

“People like Natalie Gordon should not have to be fighting against a government just to get justice. Now she is trying to make sure that the next generation do not go through the same thing and see people getting on bail and more people dying on our streets.

“So the questions we must ask on behalf of Natalie and her family and friends are: why didn’t Premier Allan act when Ash was killed?

“How many people need to die at the hands of a violent offender before we see tougher bail laws to protect all Victorians?

“Why did the Premier only announce a review by those who supported the weakened bail laws rather than just fix the problem?

“And did the Premier only react to recent polls that put her job at risk, highlighting the character of the Premier and showing that she has more interest in her job than in delivering safer communities?” Mr Battin asked.

Veggie Empire shout-out

Vicki Ward, Eltham MLA

■ Eltham MLA Vicki Ward gave a Parliamentary ‘shout-out’ to the Veggie Empire at St Helena.

“A big shout-out to the Veggie Empire and their farm gate in St Helena where I recently bought some fresher-than-fresh fresh veggies and flowers,” Ms Ward said.

“I was also able to congratulate the wonderful team on their nearly $50,000 grant from VicHealth under the Growing Healthy Communities grant.

“This helps them continue supporting people with intellectual disabilities in meaningful work, growing and selling locally grown fruit, veg and seedlings.

“The produce and the seedlings are nothing short of fantastic. The Veggie Empire has also benefitted from a $30,000 grant via the North East Community Fund, helping revitalise and rehabilitate vegetation on their site, which also has supported the establishment of their wonderful farm gate,” Ms Ward said.

Repower Festival

■ Monbulk will host the first year of the Repower Festival on Sunday, March 23. The celebration centres on sustainability, electrification, and community resilience. This family-friendly event promises a day filled with fun, live music, children’s activities, and learning opportunities. The festival is a collaborative effort by community groups Repower the Dandenongs, Healesville CoRE, and MADCOW, with support from Yarra Ranges Council, Community Bank Monbulk & District, and Monbulk Primary

A noticeboard and book swap to replace the old board outside Marysville bakery has been completed, notes the Triangle Arts Group’s Sue Boyle in the Triangle News.

new mosaic work was mounted, referencing the local environment and the purpose of the structure - books, notices, community - in an art form that has become synonymous with Marysville

Local Paper is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach The Local Paper or make a complaint to the Australian Press Council in writing at: www.presscouncil.org.au The Council may also be contacted on 1800 025 712.

your ad:

311.

● ● Dr Ash Gordon

Local Briefs

Murrindindi Shire ‘open for business’

■ Murrindindi Shire remains open for business, and local residents and visitors can still easily reach its towns, businesses and services while essential landslip repairs take place on the Melba Highway, says the local Council.

The Council has embarked upon an awareness campaign to try to avoid as many as possible negative ecoinomic affects during the lengthy road repair period.

“The Department of Transport and Planning is repairing two landslips along the Melba Highway at Dixons Creek , between Healesville-Kinglake Road and north of Hunts Lane

“Works begin on February 17 and are expected to finish by the end of March, weather permitting,” said a Council representative.

“While a section of the Melba Highway is temporarily closed, well-marked detours ensure uninterrupted access to all Murrindindi Shire businesses, services, and attractions.

■ Light vehicles, rigid trucks and buses –Use the Healesville-Kinglake Road and Healesville-Yarra Glen Road detour (allow an extra 30 minutes).

■ Heavy vehicles – Must follow alternative routes via the National Network Maps

■ Access remains open from Yarra Glen to businesses and properties south of HealesvilleKinglake Road.

“For those traveling to or through Murrindindi Shire, there are multiple scenic alternative routes:

■ Maroondah Highway via Healesville and Black Spur – Travel through Healesville and across the Black Spur, with opportunities to visit Marysville, Lake Mountain Alpine Resort and the Cathedral Range State Park.

■ Hume Highway and Broadford/ Flowerdale Exit – Take the Hume Highway north towards Victoria’s High Country, exiting at Broadford/Flowerdale to Strath Creek. Stop at Murchison Gap Lookout for views.

■ Maroondah Highway to Toolangi and Kinglake National Park – Take a left at Healesville toward Toolangi State Forest, enjoy the Wirrawilla Rainforest Walk, then continue to Kinglake National Park

■ Whittlesea-Yea Road via Kinglake West

– Exit at Whittlesea off Plenty Rd and follow the Whittlesea-Yea Rd to Kinglake West, passing through the Yea Valley.

“Local businesses are open and ready to welcome visitors, From charming cafés and wineries to outdoor adventures, and boutique shopping, there are plenty of reasons to continue supporting local businesses during this period.

“Murrindindi Shire Council is working closely with businesses and the community to ensure clear communication and minimise disruptions.

"We encourage everyone to plan ahead, allow for additional travel time, and continue supporting local businesses," said Cr Damien Gallagher, Mayor of Murrindindi Shire

"Despite the temporary detours, our towns remain connected, and we look forward to welcoming visitors to explore everything that Murrindindi has to offer."

‘No’ to Emergency Fund

■ Mansfield Shire Council unanimously voted to advocate for its community against the new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund.

The Council says will be an unreasonable burden on the community and on local governments.

The motion reflects the concern of many local governments and supports the recent statement by Regional Councils Victoria that the changes were unfair on rural councils and rural communities.

A Mansfield Council statement said: “On Friday December 13, the Victorian Government announced that the Fire Services Property Levy will be replaced with the new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund from July 1, 2025.

“This ESVF is a significant increase over the existing levy, particularly in the primary production (farming) areas, which could see an increase of around three times the existing levy.

“All ratepayers will incur this tax and in Mansfield Shire alone this could mean an additional $2 million in property taxes. This is a significant burden for ratepayers on top of their existing rates and on top of the recently implemented Vacant Residential Land Tax.”

Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said the new tax was unfair on communities and unfair on local government.

“Regional communities, such as ours, have a high proportion of primary producers. This tax transfers the burden of this cost to our community members,” said Cr Rabie.

“All of them, but especially to the primary producers. This increased tax is an excessive burden during the cost of living crisis, with implications for the economic health of the Mansfield Shire community.

“It’s also unfair to local governments in regional areas. We are one of the smallest local governments in Victoria, with a small budget and small staff.

“With this tax, we’ll be asked to play tax collector for the state government. We’ll have to pay more than $2m in total in additional taxes to the state government. Then we have to collect this from our community.

“ This shouldn’t be the role of local government and we don’t have the resources to do it. We’re the only level of government with a front desk.

“In a small council like ours, our customer service team and the staff we have to administrate our rates will have to answer to our community who will be surely questioning this unreasonable tax.

“It is an excessive burden that is being asked by the State Government of our community and of us. We estimate that it will cost more than $2m on top of rates. Council will have to pay that to the State Government and then collect this from our ratepayers.

“We are very, very careful with how we spend ratepayers money. We have managed ratepayer funds carefully, delivering exceptional value for money in every decision we have made, all the while trying to keep the burden of tax as low as possible for our ratepayers.

“To now have to ask our community members to cough up this massive spike on top of rates is unreasonable.”

Cr Rabie said: “We’re asking other local councils to join us in asking the state government to reconsider this tax and how they apply it.

“It’s not fair to tax our primary producers who will be asked to carry the brunt of this tax. It’s not fair on our communities – these are hard times and raising a tax now, directly to households but also to those who put food on the table of those households – both of these factors will take a hit on family budgets.

“This Council has unanimously said – we are taking this opportunity to advocate for our community members and asking the state to review the tax and to review how it asks local government to participate in its collection.”

Mansfield Council passed two other key advocacy motions at its meeting on Wednesday, February 12. One that supports the development of a fully funded, new, single site hospital in a new central cross-border location for the Albury Wodonga region, of which Mansfield Shire, and another to take a motion to the Municipal Association of Victoria State Council meeting that asks the State Government not to take funding from Commonwealth grants awarded to local councils.

Regional home supply inquiry

■ A Parliament of Victoria inquiry into the supply of homes in regional Victoria is seeking submissions from the public.

The Legislative Assembly Environment and Planning Committee is looking at the methods of building homes and the mix of housing forms and types.

“The Committee wants to further develop our understanding of the issues of housing supply in regional communities across Victoria,” Committee Chair Juliana Addison said.

“The inquiry provides a significant opportunity for us to look closely at a range of housing issues including areas in most need of housing, workforce challenges in the construction industry and accommodation for regional workers in key sectors.”

Stakeholders and individuals are encouraged to make a public submission online by the closing date of March 31.

The Committee will travel throughout regional Victoria to conduct site visits and hold public hearings as part of its inquiry.

“We’re really looking forward to being in regional communities across Victoria to meet with representatives involved in the housing sector,” Ms Addison said.

“These visits will allow the Committee Members to engage with industry experts, support organisations and government authorities, and hear firsthand from those on the ground about their experiences.”

A report to Parliament is due by December 15.

At Cloverton

■ Stockland launched its third Display Village in Cloverton, Victoria’s largest masterplanned community, located in Kalkallo, on February 8.

Attendees were among the first to explore 18 of the latest display homes from eight of Victoria's leading builders.

Egg phaseout

■ The Victorian Farmers Federation is calling on the State and Federal Governments to pause the proposed national phaseout of conventional cages by 2036 until a reliable supply of eggs to the community and businesses can be guaranteed.

VFF Egg Group President Meg Parkinson said ongoing impacts of avian influenza is severely hampering the supply of eggs to consumers and all forms of egg production must be utilised to maintain future supply.

““Recurring avian influenza outbreaks has demonstrated the need for a robust and resilient egg industry. We need a supply chain that is designed with consumers in mind and their needs,” Ms Parkinson said in a media statememt.

Rural News

Micro-abattoirs reform needed

■ Northern Victoria MLC Wendy Lovell, and McEwen Liberal candidate Jason McClintock, have called on the State Government to urgently implement regulatory reform to better facilitate micro-abattoirs.

“A commercial abattoir in central Victoria recently wrote to its customers with the sudden and unexpected news that from the start of 2025 the abattoir would no longer accept requests for small service kills,” the pair said in a statement.

“This will result in a large number of small-scale livestock farmers in central Victoria being left in the lurch with no other abattoirs close by that are willing to process their slaughter requirements.”

Ms Lovell and Mr McClintock have been speaking with primary producers, who are deeply concerned about the impact this decision will have on the future of small livestock farmers.

“The troubling announcement came just after the release of the final report of the parliamentary inquiry into securing Victoria’s food supply, which warned about difficulties for small producers in accessing kill facilities.”

Ms Lovell spoke in Parliament, urging the Victorian Government to change planning regulations to make it easier for new mobile and micro-abattoirs to operate, and called on the government to implement Recommendation 27 from the final report of the inquiry into securing the food supply in Victoria

It recommended that:

“Agriculture Victoria work with the Victorian Farmers Federation, PrimeSafe and commercial abattoirs to negotiate small livestock producers’ ongoing access to kill facilities in the short-to-medium term.

■ Victorian Government amend the Meat Industry Act 1993 to specifically provide for and define micro-abattoirs, and the Victorian Planning Provisions to introduce micro-abattoirs (including mobile micro-abattoirs) as a Section 1 use in the Farming Zone, Rural Activity Zone, Green Wedge Zone and the Green Wedge A Zone.

■ Victorian Government support small scale livestock producers to establish micro-abattoirs (including mobile micro-abattoirs) in communities which can demonstrate a need for this critical shared agricultural infrastructure.

“The State Labor Government tried, and failed, to fix this problem back in 2019 with an amendment to the Meat Industry Act. Jacinta Allan noted in her speech on the bill that “consolidation in the meat processing sector has …created barriers to small producers gaining access to abattoir services.”

“However, four years on from that change, it’s clear that the amended regulatory framework is not actually enabling micro-abattoirs, but in fact continues to hinder them.

“Evidence was given during the food security inquiry that there is much confusion surrounding the regulation of mobile abattoirs.

“The City of Greater Bendigo’s submission to the inquiry stated that “gaining the necessary licences for on-farm or mobile slaughtering is challenging, resulting in few businesses offering this service.”

Ms Lovell said: “The Victorian Government needs to act quickly to streamline the regulatory process in order to enable more mobile and micro-abattoir services to operate.”

“The Minister for Agriculture must urgently respond to Recommendation 27 in the Final Report of the inquiry into securing the food supply, to support the important work of small-scale livestock farmers in regional Victoria and improve their access to slaughter facilities.”

Mr McClintock said: “With over 27,000 businesses going into liquidation under the Albanese Government we need the Victorian Government to finally help our struggling small business producers.

“Small-scale producers, many of whom are women breaking their way into a highquality niche market, need to be supported and not pushed aside by a lazy Labor Government,” Mr McClintock said.

● ● ● ●

Cr Steve Rabie, Mansfield Mayor

Cr Damien Gallagher

Council Rounds

Waste reduction

Pair congratulated

■ Lillian Ormandy and the late Ray Carter from the Northern District Softball Association have been recognised with a mention in State Parliament.

“These two widely respected community members have done so much for the softball community in the northern suburbs,” said Lily D’Ambrosio, Mill Park MLA.

“I had the pleasure of being at the opening and formal naming of the new diamonds in honour of these two wonderful people of our community.”

New ambo station

■ Mill Park MLA Lily D’Ambrosio says that she was able to open a modern, multimillion-dollar ambulance station in Epping

“I really do want to acknowledge and thank the Minister for Health, for making sure that these types of services are being delivered across our communities,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.

“This is a brand new two-storey station that features a five-bay ambulance garage, training facilities, six rest-and-recline areas and enhanced security and parking, which means increased capacity to respond to more call-outs in our growing northern suburbs.

“We have also had the first stage of construction of the Northern Hospital redevelopment project.

“The first stage includes the new specialist outpatient clinic. We are going to see more than 200 treatment spaces, an expansion of the inpatient unit and many other great facilities, including the children’s emergency department, being built,” Ms D’Ambrosio told Parliament.

Every 8 minutes

■ Yarra Valley Water has released its Annual Drinking Water Quality Report which highlights rigorous testing with over 70,000 water quality tests.

This is an average of one every eight minutes - ensuring tap water is fully compliant with Safe Drinking Water Regulations and pleasant to drink.

Bridie Fennessy, General Manager Asset Services, said Yarra Valley Water is committed to providing reliable, safe and pleasant water supplies for customers throughout its service area.

“Our team collects 7100 water samples from across our service area and carries out tens of thousands of tests every year, ensuring customers receive safe, great tasting water straight from the tap,” said Ms Fennessy. Yarra Valley Water supplies around three billion litres of water every week to households and businesses in Melbourne’s north and east.

The team conducts microbiological testing for safety, as well tests for other factors such as alkalinity and colour, to ensure water tastes, looks and smells pleasant. Yarra Valley Water received the Victorian 2024 Ixom Best Tasting Tap Water in Australia Award last year in recognition of its high-quality drinking water after blind taste testing.

Licence issue

■ Northern Victoria MLC Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell has raised the issue of a constituent, Margaret, with her drivers licence. “Margaret is a diabetic and is required to provide a current medical report to VicRoads to prove her condition does not negatively impact her ability to drive. Margaret submitted her medical report from her GP within the required timeframes, and VicRoads acknowledged its receipt but requested a further report by a specialised optometrist. These reports were completed and submitted and Margaret awaited her VicRoads assessment. In the meantime, Margaret was shocked when she went to renew her licence and was told by VicRoads staff that it had been suspended, without any warning, because it was claimed that no medical reports had been received. Clearly, VicRoads received the documents and has erred by suspending Margaret’s licence without any notification,” Mrs Tyrrell told Parliament.

■ Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish says is calling on the State Labor Government to action repairs on the Whittlesea-Yea Rd between Flowerdale and Kinglake West

A Parliamentary E-petition is being collected. It is open until March 31.

After being contacted by fed up locals and driving the road often herself, Ms McLeish says that she knows the road is full of large, deep recurring potholes, failing surfaces and crumbling shoulders.

“Road users desperately want to see this road fixed once and for all,” Ms McLeish said.

“The hazardous road puts drivers at risk of accident and regularly causes damage to vehicles including busting rims and bursting tyres. It’s not uncommon to see cars pulled over with their hazard lights on.”

“We need to ensure driver’s safety. It can be a tricky road at the best of times, particularly when raining or at night.”

“The Allan Labor Government needs to listen to the community, take action and repair this section of road.”

Ms McLeish is encouraging all to sign and share the e-petition via the link: https:// www.parliament.vic.gov.au/get-involved/petitions/whittlesea-yea-road-between-flowerdaleand-kinglake-west

Harder for independents Places of last resort Petition for Yea-Whittlesea Rd

■ Indi MHR Helen Haines says that legislation passed last week by the major political parties in Canberra will make it harder for new independents to compete.

“At the 11th hour on Wednesday night, Labor and the Coalition teamed up to rewrite Australia’s election laws—locking in their own advantages while making it harder for new independents,” Dr Haines said,

:”Sadly, in possibly the last days of Parliament before the election, passing this unjust law was all the major parties were thinking about.

“For years, I’ve fought for real political donations reform—stronger transparency, lower disclosure thresholds, and an end to dark money in politics.

“But these laws do none of that. Instead, they tilt the playing field even further in favour of the major parties while making it harder for communities like Indi to elect independent representatives.

“If I’m re-elected as the Indi MP, I will fight to fix these unfair laws and push for genuine reform that strengthens, rather than weakens, our democracy. But I can’t do it alone.

“The major parties rushed these changes through in the dead of night,” Dr Haines said.

■ Murrindindi Shire Council is encouraging all residents and visitors to review their fire plans and be aware of where to go in the event of a fast-developing emergency.

A Neighbourhood Safer Place - Bushfire Place of Last Resort is usually marked by a green sign with white writing.

The Council urges everyone to be prepared with an emergency plan year-round.

“Know when to evacuate, what items to take with you and who to contact.

“Only consider going to a Bushfire Place of Last Resort within 1-2 km of your house if all other plans fail,” said a Council representative.

“If it’s further away, it may be safer to stay where you are to avoid getting trapped in your vehicle or encountering low visibility and hazards on the road.

■ A collaborative effort between Mansfield Shire Council, the Goughs Bay Area Progress Association and Forest Fire Management is said to have seen a significant reduction in waste and peak fire danger season fuel load this summer.

Key initiatives were carried out over the warmer months – with free green waste drop off to help residents clear properties from green waste, a dedicated festive season program for additional bins and pick up over the holidays, and the successful collection of camping waste at the Resource Recovery Centre, said a Mansfield Council representative.

“Residents brought a total of 552m3 of green waste to the Mansfield Resource Recovery Centre during Council’s Spring Clean Up Event, which encouraged residents to clean up yard waste by offering free green waste drop off at the Resource Recovery Centre . This was an average of more than 12 cars per day,” said a Counc il representative.

“To reduce dumped waste during the high visitation season of Christmas and New Year holidays, Council provided additional public bins at key locations, increased the frequency of collections and promoted respectful disposal behaviours for visitors. The ‘Carry In Carry Out’ policy was promoted in key camper locations with the intention to reduce dumped waste.

“Council encouraged the reporting of overflowing bins and Cleanaway, Council’s waste contractor, promptly responded to callouts on key dates including Boxing Day, New Years and Australia Day

“The Mansfield Resource Recovery Centre processed more than 2000 bags of waste which was “carried out” by campers during the peak visitor period between December 20 until January 31, with approximately 1250 of these within the period December 20 to January 2. This equates to approximately 41.5m³ of total waste.

“This is a significant increase on the use of the service from last year, which saw 588 bags processed by the Mansfield Resource Recovery Centre during the summer period.”

Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said the waste initiatives showed how Council and community could partner for great outcomes.

“Making sure our shire is clean and that waste is cleared quickly is a core function of Council,” said Cr Rabie.

“This is a clear demonstration of working together. We’re grateful to the Goughs Bay Area Progress Association for leading the community initiative that has so drastically reduced dumped waste around key camping areas, and to Forest Fire Management for their collaboration.”

Tencubic metres of waste was dropped off by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action from the Delatite Arm area following evacuation orders during the bushfire on New Year’s Eve.

Ian Nelson from the Goughs Bay Area Progress Association said the initiatives had produced great results.

“One initiative was the implementation of free tipping for campers. This, combined with FFM teams regularly interacting with campers and enforcing compliance has proven to be a game changer over the last two summers. The efforts of the project team have seen a reduction in waste and a huge increase in the number of campers supporting the project,” Mr Nelson said.

Well done Annabel

■ Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish this month told Parliament: “For years my family and I have had our eye on Annabel Sutherland, and for good reason.

“Her development and ability as an allrounder in the Australian women’s cricket team has been a delight to watch.

“Her use of the bat and the ball are equally impressive, and I was thrilled to see her hit a hundred runs in the test match against England at the MCG and then to be the first woman to have her name on the century board there.

“To top off a great year, Annabel took out the Belinda Clark medal, noting Belinda herself was a great trailblazer for women’s cricket,” Ms McLeish said.

Cindy McLeish, Eildon MLA

Paul Hildebrand

by

Familiar Yea district faces

● ● ● ● David ‘Tex’ McKenzie ● ● ● ● Pat McCormack

● ● Ross Bryant of Elders Yea

● ● Nell Bryant

Dinny McCarthy

● ● ● Yvonne Finch

● ● ● ● Michael Coonan

● ● Bev and Dougal Drysdale

●

Col Egan

● ● Shirley Lawrance

● ● Val and Peter Hauser

● Bill Morris of the Molesworth Hotel

Photos

Ash Long

Farewell

‘Flipper’

Observer Melbourne

BRICKWORKS EYESORE

■ Residents of the Hoffman Brickworks development in Brunswick are concerned about the state of a historic chimney that survives from the 19th century, according to Dr Tim Read, local MLA.

“It has been fenced off and surrounded by scaffolding for over three years awaiting repairs,” Dr Read told Parliament.

“Despite repeated orders from Heritage Victoria and a County Court order, the developer, known as Ninety Four Feet, is constantly stalling repair works.

“The temporary worksite is an eyesore and continues to raise safety concerns, with unauthorised visitors regularly scaling the scaffolding.

“Residents’ insurance premiums have also increased as a result. Behind all these delays there is a developer that could have fixed this issue years ago.

“Residents understand that restoration and repair of heritage buildings takes time, but they would rather see work being done by bricklayers than by lawyers.

“Heritage Victoria appear to be on the case, and I thank Minister Kilkenny’s team for keeping us informed. I urge Heritage Victoria and the minister to stay on the developers’ back and ensure the necessary works are completed as soon as possible.”

● ● Entertainer Philip Brady has died at age 85. Special feature, next page.

● ● Dr Tim Read, Brunswick MLA

People

Philip Brady, take your bow

■ In 1975 - half-a-century ago - I was the ambitious 18-years-young newspaper reporter. I had secured the only interview of the time with Ernie Sigley, whose twice-a-week variety programs were blitzing the GTV-9 ratings.

Part of Ernie’s team included TV journeymen Philip Brady and Pete Smith, and lifelong friendships began there and then.

Perhaps my first conversation with Philip was at a Channel 9 promotion at the BHP Theatrette. It was memorable because Philip had what comedy writer Mike McColl Jones called ‘Fanta’ coloured hair, all in readiness for colour television.

Philip had started at Channel 9 on Good Friday 1958, as a 17-yearold booth announcer on a two-week assignment. One role was as ‘Prince Philip’ in The Tarax Show featuring Ron Blaskett and Gerry Gee.

Television legend Graham Kennedy took a shine to Philip, eyeing him as a ready target for gags. Kennedy, the Freemason, loved poking fun at Brady, the Xavier boy. Such were the times in Melbourne in the 50s and 60s.

Philip graduated to having his own IMT programs each week, when the show was running four times a week.

Over the journey, he had his own TV programs including Concentration and Everybody's Talking for Nine ; and Moneymakers, Junior Moneymakers, Casino Ten, Get The Message and Password for the 0–10 Network.

Philip was later to ‘warm-up’ the audiences for the Steve Vizard Show, and in the 1990s made weekly appearances on Bert Newton’s Good Morning Australia (as did I).

Philip had worked on radio since the early days of Channel 9, when the owners - the Packer family - extracted value from their on-air staff by having them each do shifts on their radio station 3AK.

This experience came in handy for Phil when there were cutbacks in the TV industry, and he took on the morning program at a radio station in Murwillumbah/Tweed Heads on the NSW/Queensland border.

Philip, out of work, had been advised by his agent to buy a MercedesBenz, to give the appearance of success and prosperity.

A remarkable chapter in showbiz industry came around 1990 when the Remember When and Nightline programs became vacant at 3AW.

Philip, always with a business brain, came up with the solution for the Sunday night nostalgia program: he found the sponsor (State Trustees) and he found his on-air partner Bruce Mansfield.

And so began a showbiz partnership that continued until Bruce’s death in 2016.

Colourful memories of Philip

I became heavily involved with Bruce and Phil in the mid-1990s. Bruce wanted to copy the success that Sydney radio man John Laws had with his best-selling books full of poetry pieces.

So, I published the best selling Nightlines books, which the duo sold at personal appearances everywhere. The books, in several print runs, were best sellers. The personal appearances did not harm the already-high Nightline ratings.

There were Nightline wall calendars, the Nightline magazine, and then the Mansfield’s Melbourne nightly TV programs on Optus (later on Channel 31).

Phil was a willing contributor. He made special appearances on Bruce’s TV programs.

This was quite special, because behind-the-scenes, Bruce and Phil did not get on particularly well. Philip would have loved a full friendship with his on-air partner, but that was not to Bruce’s liking.

As his TV producer, Bruce told me that he wanted to keep a distance from Phil in their private hours away from the microphone. He told me that Philip enjoyed his Saturday nights, often in dress-up.

Philip would also travel widely to all points of the globe, sometimes staying in youth hostels. Bruce viewed this with disdain.

Around that time, prominent Australian personality John-Michael Howson declared himself as gay. Who knew?

JMH, who filed a column weekly for us from Hollywood, told me that Philip had implored him not to ‘out’ him.

The Melbourne fans loved him anyway. Philip provided ‘comfort radio’ to many thousands, easing their day with a friendly voice and a reassuring tone until midnight.

After Bruce’s passing, Philip continued on radio with hosts including Paul Cronin, Marty Fields and Simon Owens.

Off-stage we continued to enjoy his Brady Bunch coffee mornings and lunches. He loved bringing guests to the twice-a-year Survivors functions.

Philip Brady laughed about his 67 years in show business, pointing out that he did not sing, he did not dance, and he did not tell jokes.

He knew that HE was the show.

Rest in peace, Philip Brady. An Australian showbiz legend.

Philip Brady with Observer Editor Ash Long

● ● ● ● Graham Kennedy and Philip Brady share a laugh in the early days of In Melbourne Tonight.

● ●

Remember

co-host Simon Owens with ‘Flipper’

● Respected Melbourne newsman Robert Gibson posted this tribute on social media: “Sad to hear the loss of former partner in the early days of my queer journey - Philip Brady. I have fond memories of our time together and recognise, until recently, his ongoing incredible input into Australian television and radio. Condolences to his more recent friends.” - Photo: Robert Gibson. Colourised.

● Philip Brady and Bruce Mansfield’s Nightlines book published by Ash Long in 1997.

● ● Observer Editor Ash Long pens some memories of a 50-year friendship with Philip Brady

The Whip

Inside Information from State and Federal Parliaments

Albanese’s bluff

■ Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has abandoned Premier Jacinta Allan's Suburban Rail Loop East after failing to commit the full $11.5 billion required, instead only releasing the $2.2 billion promised at the last federal election – with strict conditions attached and not fully delivered until 2027, says the State Opposition’s Evan Mulholland.

“The Allan Labor Government’s push for billions more in Federal funding has failed, with further funding now contingent on addressing concerns about the project’s costings and so-called ‘value capture’ taxes.

“The Victorian Auditor-General has already warned that the business case for SRL East does not represent informed investment decisions, with a benefit-cost ratio as low as 0.51, meaning the project would result in a net social cost,” Mr Mulholland said.

Poll frustrations

■ Delays in counting postal votes in the Werribee by-election have again brought the Victorian Electoral Commission practices under review.

Pauline Richards, Cranbourne MLA, told Parliament about her frustrations in her neck of the woods in the State Election:

“There was an issue in Cranbourne with the availability of ballot papers. That is outrageous. People were waiting in line, turning up, working long hours, as is common in the outer suburbs, waiting long times to vote, and to find out that there were not enough ballot papers was a real problem,” Ms Richards said.

“That impacts on the staff inside, but particularly it impacts on the ability for people to have their democratic say.”

Indies on panel

■ The Rural Press Club of Victoria is holding an independent panel discussion at 7.30pm on Thursday, March 6, at the ACM Media House in Cremone.

Panel members will be:

■ Alana Johnson, Community Independents Project co-founder, Voices for Indi founding member

■ Claire Ferres Miles, independent candidate for Casey

■ Ben Smith, independent candidate for Flinders

■ Deb Leonard, independent candidate for Monash

■ Genevieve Grant, Alex Dyson for Wannon independent campaign coordinator

The five panellists will take part in a discussion about how they hope to shape the 2025 Federal Election campaign, building on the success of the 2022 ‘teal wave’.

‘BLOOD OF WATERBIRDS ON PREMIER’S HANDS’

■ Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has the blood of native waterbirds on her hands, according to the Coaltion Against Duck Shotting.

Coalition Director Laurie Levy says the Premier’s call on duck shooting ignores the risk of spreading deadly bird flu.

“Regional Victorians want tourism, not recreational native bird shooting,” Mr Levy said.

“Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has ignored all the warnings by announcing a three-month duck shooting season with a bag limit of nine birds per shooter per day.

“Premier Allan has the blood of Australia’s native waterbirds on her hands. Waterbird numbers are already low and the Premier risks spreading the deadly H5N1 bird flu as well as the highly pathogenic H7N8 strain by shooters and rescuers disturbing and handling any birds that may be infected on the wetlands.

“With the imminent threat of the deadly H5N1 bird flu, which has already killed hundreds of millions of birds and other wildlife on every other continent, and the H7N8 strain now detected on two poultry farms in northern Victoria, the Premier’s call is totally irresponsible.

“These viruses could be present in native waterbirds on any Victorian wetland and disturbance by shooters would only spread them further afield.

“Allowing shooters onto the wetlands means that our volunteer rescuers and veterinarians must be present to help wounded birds.

“The danger for rescuers is that shot birds can display similar symptoms to H5N1 contaminated birds,” Mr Levy said.

He said that Premier Allan was a supporter of duck shooting, and has disregarded the October 2024 Eastern Australian Waterbird Aerial Survey

Mr Levy said this shows a collapse of overall waterbird populations.

“But the situation for some so-called ‘game’ species is even worse. Their numbers are well below the long-term average and have dropped by around 50 per cent compared with the previous year.

“The Premier’s decision to allow duck shooting also disregards Labor’s own Parliamentary Inquiry which recommended a total ban on native bird hunting from 2024.

“However, Premier Allan reportedly made a ‘captain’s call’, under threat from two heavyweight union bosses, who threatened a mass walkout on all Big Build projects if duck shooting was banned.

“Premier Allan has ignored regional Victorians who lost millions of dollars when she cancelled the Commonwealth Games.

“They want investment in tourism. With Victoria’s growing debt crisis, and the Government languishing at around 22 per cent in the polls, Jacinta Allan should listen to regional Victorians who are strongly opposed to duck shooting and replace this outdated activity with a First Nations cultural, nature-based wetlands and waterbird tourism industry,” Mr Levy said.

“Premier Allan is already unpopular with the public on a multitude of issues and she isn’t in tune with public opinion which has shifted on this issue.

“Duck shooter numbers on the wetlands have fallen from over 100,000 in 1986 and make up less than 0.02 per cent of all Victorians today.

“So instead of wasting taxpayer millions on propping up a dying blood sport, Premier Allan needs to follow the progressive Labor states that banned duck shooting up to three and a half decades ago.”

Dead birds will again be displayed outside the Premier’s office, Mr Levy said.

Steve Dimopoulos, the Minister for Outdoor Recreation, said the duck hunting season in Victoria is sustainable, safe and backed by science.

He said the settings for the 2025 duck hunting season are determined by the science-based Adaptive Harvest Management model and the Wounding Reduction Action Plan

This year is the first season the Adaptive Harvest Management model will be used to guide the daily bag limit in Victoria.

Erratic at 170-kmh

■ Police arrested a man in a vehicle in Melbourne’s northwest on Friday afternoon.

Officers responded to multiple calls that a red Ford Falcon was driving at speed and erratically in the vicinity of Princes Freeway, Winchelsea about 12:20pm.

It is alleged the Ford continued to drive at speed, running red lights and erratically through numerous Geelong suburbs, side swiping another vehicle along the Western Ring Road, Lovely Banks when the pursuit was cancelled. It is alleged the vehicle was travelling between 150-kmh and 170-kmh.

■ Police are investigating an incident where a male was assaulted in the Melbourne

on Sunday, Febnruary 9.

Investigators have been told the victim was walking along Bourke St when an unknown man made a comment to him concerning the conflict in the Middle East.

The pair had a brief verbal altercation before the victim turned to walk away.

He was then followed by the unknown man into a nearby shop who assaulted him before leaving the scene.

Victoria Police take this type of offending extremely seriously.

Investigators have released an image of a man they wish to speak to in relation to the matter.

Since 1969, the Melbourne Observer has been a trusted news source for Victorians.

These days the Melbourne Observer is available free, tucked inside all editions of The Local Paper, covering all Melbourne suburbs, the Mornington Peninsula and selected country areas.

As well as general news coverage, there is plenty of latest showbiz news, favourite columnists, and the mighty mega crossword.

The Melbourne Observer is available free weekly online, February-December. Free print copies are available fortnightly through a network of hundreds of outlets.

You can have the Melbourne Observer delivered free every week to your in-box. To arrange your free subscription, simply fill in the details at the form at www.FreePaper.com.au

● ● ● ● Laurie Levy, Coalition Against Duck Shooting. Photo: 3CR

● ● Anthony Albanese

CBD

● ● Police want to speak with this man

Melbourne Observer

Established 1969 EDITORIAL COMMENT

End of an era for showbiz

The passing last week of Victorian entertainer Philip Brady marks the end of a chapter in the local showbiz scene.

Since his first appearances on Channel 9 in the 1950s, Philip Brady has grown up with Melbourne, and vice-versa.

Brady entertained us with his appearances with Graham Kennedy on the legendary ‘In Melbourne Tonight’ program.

He was a regular fixture on radio stations such as 3AK and 3AW, presenting his signature ‘Easy Listening’ shows.

Brady presented his own TV shows, including his own weekly IMT in the 1960s.

He continued as team member on the variety TV programs on the 1970s and 80s with Kennedy, Ernie Sigley and Don Lane.

He supported Steve Vizard’s Tonight show at Channel 7, as well as regular appearances with Bert Newton on Channel 10’s ‘Good Morning Australia’.

The real magic arrived when he formed an unlikely partnership with Bruce Mansfield in 1990, and together they presented the ‘Nightline’ and ‘Remember When’ TV programs on 3AW.

Industry insiders called it ‘comfort radio’. For several decades, it led to Melbourne radio listeners having their sets ‘rusted’ onto 3AW.

The ratings told the story. The ‘Nightline’ and ‘Remember When’ programs consistently pulled the top audiences.

After the death of Bruce Mansfield in 2016, Philip continued with other hsosts including Paul Cronin, Marty Fields and Andrew McLaren. But it was with Simon Owens that Philip was able to continue the magic.

Just over a fortnight ago, Philip recorded a message to his listeners that he was ‘retiring’. He knew in his heart that he only had days to live.

It wasn’t a retirement message, it was actually his farewell to his audience after 67 years on stage.

“Well it has come to this, after 67 years in the business I am quitting and I am very sad to be leaving you, but, well, I have been around forever and I have been at 3AW since time began. “Don’t think I will ever forget you, I love you, each and every one of you. I’ll be looking out for you. Goodbye now.”

Spike in violence

Sir, Did you know the Australia Day national holiday delivers a spike in violence?

New research from the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research highlights the heightened risk, likely replicated elsewhere.

On Australia Day incidents of non-DV assaults exceed a typical day by 89 per cent and incidents of DV assaults by 62 per cent.

All forms of violence are preventable and inexcusable, and responding to violence requires our attention every single day because it is everyone’s business.

Australians don’t need announcements with a delay in the flow of funding.

We need action and urgency to address this scourge.

Call 24/7 helpline 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 for further support.

- Senator Kerryanne Liddle

■ Senator Kerrynne Liddle is Shadow Minister for Child Protection and the Prevention of Family Violence and Senator for South Australia.

Links to Ned Kelly

Sir, James Wallace was a respectable school teacher and lifelong friend of Kelly gang member Joe Byrne

During the two years that the Kelly gang were at large after the murders of police at Stringybark Creek, Wallace worked behind the scenes to protect his friend.

He hid the gang away for a time at an old splitters’ hut in the range behind his school at Bobinawarrah and kept them supplied with provisions.

He contributed to critical letters that told Ned Kelly’s side of the story, fed misleading information to the police, assisted in the collection of the plough shares used in making the gang’s armour, and was likely complicit in the murder of Aaron Sherritt prior to the gang’s final stand at Glenrowan.

The police began to suspect Wallace and arranged with the Education Department to have him relocated out of Kelly country in the days immediately prior to Glenrowan

Wallace was given a new position as head teacher at Yea State School No. 699

He became a respected and valued member of the Yea community until March 1881 when he was called upon to appear at the Royal Commission into the Police Force of Victoria, which was established to enquire into the conduct and efficiency of the force during the Kelly outbreak.

The Commission made adverse findings against Wallace and recommended he be dismissed from public service. Under threat of prosecution, Wallace ultimately fled to Queensland towards the end of 1882. He remained in Queensland

Observer

Mailbag

Short letters (no more than 200 words) on local subjects are invited from readers.

Email to: editor@Melbourne Observer.com.au

Letters must be short and may be edited. All letters to be considered for publication must have a name, street address and phone number so their authenticity can be checked. An email address is not sufficient.

for 6sixyears before returning to Victoria where he eventually became a journalist and later the Managing Director/Editor of the Kerang Times.

Yea Primary School No. 699, the school Wallace was relocated to towards the end of the Kelly outbreak, remains an important institution at the heart of the Yea community, with a student enrolment of about 130 pupils.

- Peter Newman pln@optusnet.com.au

■ ‘James Wallace: The Kelly Gang Sympathiser’ (ISBN 9781-923216-45-7) is available from bookshops at the recommended retail price $39.99

Backroom deal

Sir,

The Labor and Liberal/.National Parties have cut a backroom deal to push through electoral laws that kneecap charities like the Climate Council from speaking out during elections.

Backed by both major parties, the laws passed near midnight last night, after debate was cut inside Parliament and questions from minor parties and independents went unanswered.

The legislation gives the Labor and Liberal/National parties an extra $80 million of taxpayer money per election to fund their political campaigns, but makes it much harder for charities, independents, and minor parties to hold power to

account. The bills ban charities from using general donations on public communications about ‘electoral matters’, which includes commentary on issues like climate change during an election campaign.

The dirty deal is an attack on democracy and truth in politics:

This law kneecaps charities from doing their essential work during elections.

By silencing independent voices, the Labor and Liberal parties are making sure Australians only hear from politicians on issues like climate change.

This law gags independent and fearless advocates like the Climate Council from speaking out on the very issue we were set up to solve.

How will Australians know what politicians are up to on climate change, if the only voices left in the debate during elections are politicians or their financial backers in the fossil fuel industry?

And it’s not just charities being silenced. The major parties have also stitched up the rules to disadvantage independents.

Meanwhile, the big parties will still be able to pull in millions through their state branches, effectively sidestepping the new donation limits.

The new law does nothing to crack down on the real threat to democracy: the influence of vested interests and big corporate donors.

Instead, it targets the very organisations working in the public interest while the Minerals Council, Business Council and unions get special exemptions.

Voters want fair and transparent elections, not politicians rigging the rules in their own favour.

This isn’t reform, it’s a power grab that entrenches political power at the expense of our climate and Australian voters.

- Amanda McKenize, Climate Council

Art Salon at Bundoora

Sir.

The A1 Darebin Art Salon at Bundoora Homestead Art Centre features 150 artworks by artists who live, work, study or base their creative practice in the City of Darebin.

This is the fifth iteration of this major community art prize and exhibition.

Featuring artists and crafters at any stage of their career including hobbyists, emerging and established artists, it’s a wonderful opportunity to view the full spectrum of creative talent in Darebin Bundoora Homestead Art Centre. 7 Prospect Hill Dr, Bundoora

Open: Wednesday to Friday: 11am–4pm. Saturday: 10am–4pm Entry is free

- Shannon Reid, City of Darebin

No H-Bomb here

■ The Commonwealth Government will not allow any country to make or test hydrogen bombs in Australia, Mr. Beale, Minister for Supply, said in Sydney yesterday.

"I assert this categorically," he declared. His statement followed Britain's soberly worded announcement that she had decided to produce H-bombs and a suggestion that they would be tested here.

Mr. Beale, emphatically denied a statement at tributed to a British Atomic Energy Authority spokesman that Britain was negotiating for an Australian site to test and make H-bombs.

■ 2025 Editor notes: Between 1956 and 1963, the United Kingdom conducted seven nuclear tests at the Maralinga site in South Australia

Stranded on trams

■ Angry tram passengers walked from St. Kilda Junction to the city last night when a tram de railment caused one of the worst traffic tie-ups in Melbourne's history.

All trams from south ern suburbs to the city, with the exception of South Melbourne, were held up for more than an hour.

The hold -up occurred at 6.15 p.m. when , an empty tram returning from Toorak ran off the line at the Domain-St. Kilda Rds. corner. It was almost two hours before services returned to normal.

Nobody takes blame

■ Neither Melbourne City Council nor the S.E.C. will accept blame for yesterday's power blackout-the worst in the city area since the war. And the mysterious fault which caused chaos in the city between 1.13 p.m. and 1.37 p.m. had not been found late last night - although full power had been restored.

The blackout was caused by a break in supply between the council's power station in Spencer st. and the S.E.C.'s supply system, BUT no one knows what caused it.

Unless the fault is discoered during the weekend the city could be blacked out again.

The blackout plunged theatres into darkness, silenced radio stations, leeft cafe patrons sipping tea in the dark, caused traffic jams at i ntersections when traffic lights stopped working, stopped work in badly lighted offices and basements.

Warren Dawson Box Hill Secondary College

Box Hill Senior Secondary College is a Years 9-12 Senior Secondary College offering a full VCE program, Vocational VCE, Industry certified VET courses, School based apprenticeships, Arts program and we were the first “Sports Academy” school in Australia.

Warren Dawson is the Executive Principal and in his five years at BHSSC, he and his talented group of staff and students have led a “change” agenda, which now means our academic performance has been

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NAME: Box Hill Secondary College

ADDRESS: Dunloe Ave, Mont Albert North, Vic 3129

PHONE: 9890 0571

EMAIL: box.hill.senior.sc@ education.vic.gov.au

transformed.

VCE performance is now at State Average or above in a range of VCE subject areas, along with eight industry based training courses being offered on-site for students to access from Year 9 onwards.

As an experienced Principal, my philosophy is simple when considering education, “ all students are talented and capable, our role is to challenge and support everyone to be the best version of themselves each and every day”.

In my 30 years of education, along with another lifetime of involvement in elite level sport both nationally and internationally, I am constantly amazed at what students can achieve when given the opportunity to excel.

As a growing school, who are currently taking enrolments, we encourage all families to consider us when looking at secondary school education within the Inner East of Melbourne.

Weekly tours can be booked via our website https:// www.bhssc.vic.edu.au/enrolments/ enrolment-enquiry/

Madeleine Witter Glen Iris Primary School

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As the principal of Glen Iris Primary School (GIPS), I am proud to lead a community committed to our vision: Growth through belonging; community where every child thrives. With over 20 years of experience as a school leader, I’ve seen how fostering belonging helps every child reach their full potential.

At GIPS, we strive to create an environment where children feel valued and supported, inspiring them to aim high.

Meet The Principals Great Schools across

Victoria

Fiona McAuliffe Good News Lutheran College

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NAME: Glen Iris Primary School

ADDRESS: 170 Glen Iris Rd, Glen Iris, Vic 3146

PHONE: 9885 3624

WEBSITE: www.gips.vic.edu

EMAIL: glen.iris.ps@ education.vic.gov.au

differentiated, and supportive, focusing on deep thinking, collaboration, and academic growth.

We aim to nurture resilient students who the skills needed to thrive in high school.

My work as the author of Reading Without Limits and co-author of the Berry Street Education Model has influenced our approach to both student wellbeing and learning, ensuring we prioritise academic and emotional growth.

Wellbeing is at the core of what we do, with programs like the Resilience Project, the Berry Street Education Model, an onsite school psychologist, and Respectful Relationships woven into daily practice.

These initiatives support students’ mental health, ensuring they are ready to learn.

Our families are integral to our success, and together we ensure that GIPS remains a place where every child thrives.

I warmly invite you to book a tour, where students and I will share our students’ learning and wellbeing growth in action.

has led Good News

College through a period of remarkable growth.

With a background in Mathematics education and extensive experience in curriculum leadership, particularly within the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the College’s academic direction.

Good News Lutheran College continues to provide a strong academic framework, offering the IB in Prep to Year 9 and the VCE in Years 10 to 12.

With a focus on 'Creating Success Together,' the College strives to foster an environment where every stu-

NAME: Good News Lutheran College

ADDRESS: Tarneit Cam,pus - 580 Tarneit Rd, Tarneit, Vic 3029

Mamourin Campus - 44 Barrabool Blvd, Manourin, 3024

PHONE: 8742 9000

WEBSITE: www.goodnews.vic. edu.au

EMAIL: frontdesk@goodnews. vic.edu.au

dent is supported in achieving their best academically and personally.

Founded in 1997 with just 24 students, Good News Lutheran College now serves over 1900 students from Prep to Year 12.

In response to increasing demand, the College expanded with a second campus in Mambourin, which starts on-site this year.

This development ensures that more families in Melbourne’s west can access a Christ-centred, holistic education.

"As a values-based College, we are pleased to offer a supportive environment where students can take responsibility for their own decisions and form their own attitudes and opinions.

“Our curriculum, pastoral care, and behaviour expectations ensure an environment where our students have every opportunity to thrive and realise their potential." – Fiona McAuliffe

Warren Dawson

● ● ● Madeleine Witter

Fiona McAuliffe

Lutheran

● ● Fiona McAuliffe

Julie David Holy Family School, Mt Waverley

In Faith, we believe, we belong, we learn, we grow

As Principal of Holy Family Primary School, I encourage our community to live out our School Vision in every interaction.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a Catholic Primary School Principal is the connections you develop with students, families and staff. The wellbeing of my staff and students is a priority for me as Principal. We have a calm, welcoming, in-

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NAME: Holy Family School, Mount Waverley

ADDRESS: 250 Stephensons Rd, Mount Waverley, Vic 3149

PHONE: 9807 3300

WEBSITE: wwww.hfmw.catholic. edu.au

EMAIL: principal@hfmw.catholic. edu.au

clusive and orderly school where everyone feels safe. This is supported by our Behaviour Curriculum.

I value the relationship our school has with our Parish Priest and parishioners.

Our Mini Vinnies students support St Vincent de Paul by fundraising throughout the year. Social Justice at our school is more than bringing a ‘gold coin’ donation.

Our Year 6 students give their time to help the younger students in our school by running clubs at lunchtimes.

At Holy Family School we have made changes to our class structure and pedagogy in the last 18 months.

Science of Learning and Reading

Explicit Direct Instruction

Synthetic Phonics Program (PrepYear 2)

PhOrMeS (word reading, spelling and learning) Year 3-6

Wellbeing Program (Resilience Project)

I invite you to book in a school tour via our website.

Jess Davis, Mother Teresa Catholic Primary School. Mt Ridley

Have you meet our new school Principal?

Mrs Jess Davis joins Mother Teresa Catholic Primary school bringing a wealth of experience in her 21+ years in Catholic Education.

Jess is passionate about her new role as Principal at mOther Teresa and is looking forward to working alongside the Mt Ridley communit to ensure that every child at Mother Teresa s equipped for success, both academically and personally.

Under Mrs. Davis' leadership, the school thrives on a values-driven approach that prioritizes respect, kindness, and community spirit. Her focus on individual growth and development helps foster a learning environment where students feel valued and supported.

Mrs. Davis is deeply committed to the spiritual, social, and emotional well-being of each student, reinforcing the school’s strong Catholic ethos. With a forward-thinking vision for the school’s future, Mrs. Davis embraces innovative teaching practices and a curriculum that caters to a wide range of learning needs. Her approach will ensure that students

George Danson, Le Page Primary Schoolm Cheltenham

A Leader Inspiring Greatness at Le Page Primary School

Principal George Danson is the dynamic and visionary leader of Le Page Primary School, a proud 7 Habits School committed to empowering students to achieve their full potential.

With a deep passion for fostering academic excellence and personal growth, Mr. Danson has played a pivotal role in transforming Le Page into a thriving community of confident, capable, and compassionate learners.

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NAME: Mother Teresa Catholic Primary School

ADDRESS: 5-15 Windrock Ave, Mt Ridley, Vic 3064

PHONE: 7303 1200

EMAIL: jessica.davis@mother teresa.catholic.edu.au

not only achieve excellence in academics but also develop the confidence and skills to become compassionate, responsible citizens.

If you're looking for a school where your child can flourish in a supportive and environment, Mrs. Davis invites you to discover the hospitably of the community at Mother Teresa Catholic Primary School, where each student is truly at the heart of everything.

Mother Teresa Catholic Primary School in Mount Ridley, Craigieburn, offers a nurturing and inclusive learning environment for children from Prep to Year 6.

The school proudly incorporates the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program, where students engage in hands-on learning about gardening, food preparation, and healthy eating. This program teaches valuable life skills and fosters a sense of responsibility while encouraging environmental sustainability.

Mother Teresa Catholic Primary School is a place where every child is valued, respected, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

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NAME: Le Page Primary School

ADDRESS: 77 Argus St, Cheltenham, Vic 3192

PHONE: 9583 8342

EMAIL: le.page.ps@ education.vic.gov.au

Under Mr. Danson’s leadership, the school has embraced Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, weaving these principles into every aspect of school life.

Students are taught to be proactive, set meaningful goals, and work collaboratively toward success. Through programs like The Leader in Me, he has created a culture where students are not just learners but leaders, equipped with the skills to navigate life with integrity, resilience, and purpose.

Mr. Danson’s commitment to excellence is reflected in the outstanding academic growth of students at Le Page.

He has championed innovative teaching practices, scaffolded learning pathways, and provided targeted support through the school’s threetiered framework.

Beyond academics, his focus on wellbeing, inclusion, and respectful relationships ensures that every student feels valued and supported.

Principal George Danson is not just a leader but a role model, inspiring the entire Le Page community to strive for greatness.

Joanne Rock Santa Maria College

Discover what makes Santa Maria College a unique and innovative Learning Community: Santa Maria College is a welcoming school that has a dynamic, determined, cohesive and innovative leadership team led by Principal Joanne Rock, and a committed staff.

It is increasingly highly regarded in the community as a school that cares deeply for its students: one that seeks to promote student life that enables girls to become strong, compassionate and independent women who are critical thinkers and who seek to live out Gospel values with integrity, hope and joy.

In recognising the importance of working in partnership with parents, the College endeavours to provide a holistic education to the young women it serves. In doing so, it is wholeheartedly embracing the challenges of the rapidly changing educational, social and spiritual landscape.

The College successfully gained authorisation from the International Baccalaureate as a global school in 2014 and as such is an official provider of the Middle Years Program (MYP: Years 7-10).

This recognition has placed the College on an international platform as a global school for innovative learning, and only 1 of 3 Catholic secondary schools in Victoria to offer this learning approach to our Year 7-10 students.

The College has a true multicultural

NAME: Santa Maria College

ADDRESS: 50 Separation St, Northcote, Vic 3070

PHONE: 9488 1613

EMAIL: info@santamaria. vic.edu.au

profile with no nationality dominating the ethnic mix with many students representing third and fourth generation migrant families.

Santa Maria College has the strongest and most successful Duke of Edinburgh program in Victoria.

This program builds emotional resilience, physical and mental strength and the capacity to work in and serve the wider community. It consists of adventure experiences, recreation, skills development and community service.

The DoE program has 3 developmental stages. The Bronze award is fully integrated into the Year 9 curriculum.

The Silver and Gold awards are electives in Years 10 and 11. The completion of the Gold DoE award enables students to apply for Early Entry Access schemes at University level.

We would love you to come and see us in action and learn more about who we are and what we do from our wonderful student ambassadors who love to take families on tour and tell them all about what it is like being a Santa girl.

● ● Julie David

● ● ● George Danson

● ● ● ● Jessica Davis

Sue Hartley Scoresby Primary School

● Sue Hartley

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NAME: Scoresby Primary School

ADDRESS: 11Ingrid St, Scoresby, Vic. 3179

PHONE: 9763 7484

EMAIL: scoresby.ps@ education.vic.gov.au

school community.

We make strong connections with our families, students and the wider community, and we know that children perform at their best when they feel safe and happy.

Our students are at the centre of all decision-making in our school.

At Scoresby Primary School we offer an exciting educational program for all year levels Foundation to Year 6, within a supportive and inclusive environment.

We aim to grow students socially, emotionally and academically, and we are very proud of our excellent academic results.

The individual needs of students are met with our rigorous teaching practices, while providing authentic and engaging learning for all.

Martin McKenna, St Cecilia’s Primary School, Glen Iris

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NAME: St Cecilia’s Primary School

ADDRESS: 4 Van Ness Ave, Glen Iris, Vic 3146

PHONE: 9809 2142

EMAIL: mmckenna@scgleniris. catholic.edu.au

At St. Cecilia’s, we believe that excellence isn’t just about big achievements—it’s also found in the small moments that shape a child’s journey.

A warm greeting at the gate, a student helping a friend, a teacher who takes the time to listen—these are the moments that create a strong and caring school.

Our school is a place where students feel known, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential.

With a rich and engaging curriculum, dedicated teachers, and a strong focus on faith and values, we provide a learning environment where children grow academically, spiritually, and socially.

Whether it’s in the classroom, on the sporting field, in the arts, or through leadership opportunities, we support each student in finding their strengths and passions.

I am Sue Hartley, the proud principal of Scoresby Primary School.

At Scoresby Primary School we pride ourselves on having a vibrant ●

We have a strong set of core values at Scoresby Primary School, our HEART values. Honesty, Excellence, Acceptance, Respect and Trust are our H.E.A.R.T. values, and they are an embedded part of our daily learning environment, helping us to guide our students to become good citizens, ready for their bright futures.

We are the HEART of Scoresby!

Michael Watt, St Clement of Rome School, Bulleen

A Warm Welcome from Michael Watt

As a father of three, I deeply understand what parents want for their children—a nurturing environment where they feel safe, happy, and supported in both their academic and personal growth.

More than anything, I want my own children to develop a strong faith, build meaningful friendships, and carry with them values that will guide them through life.

These same aspirations drive me every day as the Principal of St Clement of Rome, because I want the very best for your children too.

My journey in education began in 1998 as a Learning Support Officer at St Anne’s in Park Orchards, and my passion for teaching quickly grew.

I began my teaching career at St Brigid’s in Healesville in 2000, before moving on to St James in Vermont. I later served as both a teacher and Deputy Principal at St Jude’s in Scoresby and St Luke’s in Wantirna.

After eight wonderful years as Prin- cipal of St Paul’s in Monbulk, I now feel incredibly fortunate to lead the St Clement of Rome community.

I have also completed two Masters Degrees—one in Educational Lead- ership through Australian Catholic Uni- versity and another in Student Wellbeing at the University of Melbourne—both of which have shaped my approach to leading a school where every child is valued and empowered to thrive.

At St Clement of Rome, we believe in high expectations and fostering a lifelong love of learning. Our school is blessed with outstanding facilities and a dynamic curriculum that engages and challenges students. We offer a rich array of specialist programs, including Music, Visual

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NAME: St Clement of Rome School

ADDRESS: Unit 9, 21 Egan Drive, Bulleen, Vic 3105

PHONE: 9850 1216

EMAIL: principal@clement bulleenb.catholic.edu.au

Arts, Science, Italian, and Physical Education. Through innovative teaching practices, including the use of Google Apps for Education (G.A.F.E.) and an Inquiry-based learning approach, we prepare students to be confident, critical thinkers in an everchanging world.

Above all, our children are at the heart of everything we do. St Clement of Rome is a place where respect, kindness, and strong community connections flourish. We work in close partnership with students, parents, staff, and the wider community to create a supportive and harmonious environment where every child feels seen, heard, and valued.

Our school motto, ‘Love One Another,’ is more than just words—it is a way of life here. We foster a culture of care, cooperation, and success, ensuring that each child is nurtured academically, socially, and spiritually.

I warmly invite you to visit St Clement of Rome and experience our wonderful school firsthand. Tours are available every Monday and Thursday at 10:00 am. To book, visit our website at www.clementbulleen.catholic.edu.au or call our office on (03) 9850 1216. I look forward to welcoming you to our school community!

My name is Mr. Marty McKenna, and as the Principal of St. Cecilia’s, I want to personally welcome you to our school community.

I invite you to visit us, take a tour, and experience the spirit of St. Cecilia’s for yourself. Come and see what makes our school special—I’d love to personally welcome you and your family.

Natalie Kenny, St Dominic’s Primary School, Camberwell East

EMAIL: principal@sdcamberwell east.catholic.edu.au

Enrolling your child is a significant decision, so it is important that you visit prospective schools and encounter their learning culture and community, and ask key questions to support your decision.

Our St Dominic’s school community is welcoming, dynamic, inclusive and highly-engaged and our children are at the heart of all we do.

Wellbeing is foundational to successful learning and our students are happy, confident, and well-supported to build meaningful connections and achieve positive learning outcomes. This is at the core of our work.

Our Dominican Charism is based on the foundations of Prayer, Learning, Service and Community; this is real, lived and celebrated each day at St Dominic’s.

We provide diverse and engaging learning programs, excellent contemporary learning spaces, we value and egage student voice, target learning support and we are proud of our caring and professional staff.

I warmly invite you and your family to “Discover the St Dom’s Difference” for yourself!

Jason Micallef, St Kevin’s Primary School, Hampton Park

As Principal of St. Kevin’s Primary School in Hampton Park, Jason Micallef leads with a deep commitment to faith, learning, and community.

With over 25 years of experience in Catholic education, Jason fosters an inclusive environment where every child is known, valued, and sup-

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NAME: St Kevin’s Primary School

ADDRESS: 120 Hallam Rd, Hampton Park, Vic 3976

PHONE: 9709 8600

EMAIL: jmicallef@ skhamptonpark.catholic.edu.au

ported to reach their full potential.

At St. Kevin’s, a vibrant multicultural and multifaith school, Jason champions high-quality teaching and learning, ensuring students develop strong literacy and numeracy foundations through evidence-based, explicit instruction.

He believes that education is an act of love, strengthened by the science of learning, and works closely with teachers to build their capacity for excellence.

Under his leadership, St. Kevin’s has become a place where student wellbeing is prioritised alongside academic achievement. The school’s strong support network wraps around every child and their family, ensuring that students flourish socially, emotionally, and academically.

Jason is passionate about building strong partnerships between families, school, and parish, ensuring St. Kevin’s remains a welcoming faith community where children thrive.

He invites families to experience The St. Kevin’s Effect—where every child belongs, every child grows, and every child succeeds.

Marisa Matthys, St Mary’s Primary School, Greensborough

It is an absolute privilege to be the Principal of St Mary’s Greensborough.

We are a dynamic community of empowered learners engaging justly in the world.

Our philosophy is to be a welcoming, inclusive community by following Jesus’ teaching and genuinely caring for others.

Angela Lacey St Martin of Tours, Rosanna

Welcome to St Martin of Tours School!

I am the new Principal here, having commenced in Term Two 2024.

I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the students and their families, and our parish.

I have always worked in education, firstly as a teacher, then a leader and as a Principal in two previous schools. It is a privilege to be an educator and to share the development of the students in our school.

The key aspect of my role is to ensure that the students are engaged in their learning, and in all other areas of their development.

Students learn when they feel safe and happy, and that’s the environment we create for them as a staff at St Martin’s School. Our staff care about each student's wellbeing and are dedicated to the growth of every child.

About Our School

At St Martin’s, we teach and encourage the students to discuss, think and apply their learning across the curriculum.

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NAME: St Mary’s Primary School

ADDRESS: 210 Grimshaw St, Greensborough, Vic 3088

PHONE: 9433 4000

WEBSITE: www.smgreensborough. catholic. edu.au

EMAIL: jbaker@smgreensborough. catholic.edu.au

St Mary’s is a place where students and their families truly have a sense of belonging.

As an innovative school which values excellence, all decisions are based upon what is best for our students, deeply underpinned by research.

Our ‘cognitive sciences’ approach caters for all students and increases student engagement and participation. Explicit teaching, daily review and consistent practice supports our students to flourish.

We are extremely proud of our colearner functional language approach to teaching Italian. Our aim is for students to be able to speak fluently in Italian.

We are a Positive Behaviour for Learning school aligning behaviour and academics.

St Mary’s committed, highly expert teachers, explicitly teach the knowledge and behaviours we expect to see.Students are respectful and responsible, letting ‘learners learn and teachers teach’.

I look forward to meeting with you, supporting your child and building in them a love for learning.

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NAME: St Martin of Tours School

ADDRESS: 2-12 Silk Street, Rosanna 3084

PHONE: 8458 7500

WEBSITE: www.smrosanna. catholic.edu.au

EMAIL: principal@ smrosanna.catholic.edu.au

Following the Vision for Instruction model (MACS), we implement an evidence based direct instruction approach to learning across the curriculum, including a structured phonics approach to the teaching of reading in the P-2 area. Whenever possible, we link Religious Education and Inquiry Learning, so that the students see faith as intertwined in life.

Our Specialist areas are enjoyed by the students and include PE, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, STEM and our LOTE is Italian.

Some of the highlights of our school include: Preparation of the students for the sacraments at Years 3, 4 and 6; a whole school Performance and a Visual Arts Show (Biennial); a fabulous Buddies program; Camps and excursions; Sports Days and Swimming, lunchtime activities and opportunities for Leadership roles.

I look forward to meeting you at a tour to share our educational approach and the range of opportunities we offer at St Martin of Tours School.

Wayne Smith St Mary’s College, Seymour

Year 12 has returned to St Mary’s for local and regional families. 2025 celebrates 125 years since the Sisters of Mercy arrived in Seymour. Our College Values are the siters of Mercy Values: justice, compassion, respect, hospitality, service and courage.

St Mary’s students are educated and cared for by professional and pastoral educators who are committed to the holistic growth of our students.

Learning, student wellbeing and faith formation empower students to grow from curious Foundation stu-

NAME: St Mary’s

EMAIL: accounmts@smseymour. catholic.edu.au

dents into responsible, respectful and capable young adults who have the confidence to believe in their abilities to succeed.

I have had a long career in Catholic education leadership and feel very privileged and proud to be a member of the St Mary’s staff.

St Mary’s has a wraparound wellbeing approach that includes clear expectations of behaviour. The Positive Behaviour Pillars (Respect Excellence and Integrity), along with the pastoral, emotional and mental health education programs of support all nurture and develop the social and emotional growth of our students.

To plan for a growing College population, St Mary’s is building a VCE Senior Learning Centre and enlarging the Monsignor Toms Science Centre, adding two more Science/ STEM laboratories. Both projects will complete two stages of the College’s Four Stage Masterplan.

The explicit (Vision For Instruction) teaching pedagogy is very successful, and data analysis provides the evidence of academic growth.

St Mary’s College Seymour – supports, challenges and inspires!

● Jason Micallef

Lacey

Marisa Matthys

● ● Wayne Smith

Rachael Spooner, St Matthew’s Primary School, Fawkner North

● Rachael Spooner

Hello! My name is Rachael Spooner and I have the great pleasure of being the Principal at St. Matthew’s Catholic Primary School in Fawkner North.

St. Matthew’s is a very proud Catho-

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NAME: St Matthew’s Primary School

ADDRESS: 95 William St, Fawkner North, Vic 3060

PHONE: 9359 5423

WEBSITE: www.smfawknernth. catholic.edu.au

EMAIL: principal@ smfawknernth.catholic.edu.au

lic school established in 1961.

I am very proud of the warm, inviting and accepting community that we have at St. Matthew’s, where the development of all students’ faith is paramount.

I value relationships very highly and as such aim to develop strong relationships with all staff, students and parents built on respect and trust. Our school vision is:

At St. Matthew’s we seek truth and hope through the teachings of Jesus Christ. In partnership with our wider community, we aspire to be deeply engaged learners and active global citizens.

Our vision statement drives us to provide an education program that is progressive and continually meets the needs of all learners.

We provide a broad specialist program that includes; Visual Arts, Music, LOTE: Italian, Physical Education and Library lessons.

Please feel free to contact us for a tour and an opportunity to see first hand what we have to offer your child at St. Matthew’s.

Trish Vandervolk, St Thomas The Apostle Primary School, Greensborough

At St. Thomas the Apostle School, Greensborough North, we are committed to fostering a love of learning, nurturing spiritual growth, and prioritising student well-being.

As a welcoming and vibrant community, we provide a supportive environment for students from Prep to Year 6, ensuring each child is encouraged to flourish.

Under the leadership of our principal, Trish Vandekolk, we continue to strengthen our commitment to excellence in education.

With a passion for collaboration and inclusivity, Trish fosters a school

Angela Tonkin, St Peter’s Primary School, Epping

As a parent, choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make.

As principal, I am deeply committed to ensuring that every child experiences a fulfilling and enriching education.

At St Peter’s, we are committed to providing an exceptional learning environment where every child is in-

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NAME: St Peter’s Primary School

ADDRESS: 32 Wedge St, Epping, Vic. 3076

PHONE: 9401 1157

EMAIL: atonkin@stprepp. catholic.edu.au

spired to grow and become the best version of themselves.

We believe that every child is capable of experiencing success. Tailored assessment and teaching strategies ensure that each student is met where they are in their learning journey.

Through personalised instruction and engaging activities, we make sure each child is challenged at their level and supported every step of the way.

We focus on nurturing the whole child—emotionally, spiritually and academically. We believe that a balanced approach to education allows our students to thrive in all areas of their lives.

Over the past four years, our school has seen significant improvements in literacy and numeracy outcomes.

Our dedicated teachers and strategic teaching practices have contributed to this growth, ensuring that students receive the support they need to flourish.

We strive for academic excellence, and our results reflect our commitment to helping every child reach their full potential.

NAME: Sf Thomas The Apostle Primary School

ADDRESS: 251 Diamond Creek Rd, Greensborough North, 3088

PHONE: 9434 4565

PHONE: 9434 4565

WEBSITE: www.stgreensboroughnth. catholic.edu.au

EMAIL: principal@stgreensborough. catholic.edu.au

culture where every student is supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential.

Grounded in a strong faith-based tradition, we embrace evidence-informed teaching practices that enable each child to develop a deep sense of the world around them.

Our dedicated educators create engaging and enriching experiences that build a rich vocabulary, foster curiosity, and ignite students’ passions.

With exceptional facilities—including a Bush School, Vegetable Garden, Science Block, Food Technology Building, Basketball Stadium, and Athletics Track—students benefit from hands-on learning experiences that encourage exploration and discovery.

Our small class sizes ensure every child is known, valued, and supported in a nurturing environment.

Join us at St. Thomas the Apostle School, where learning is an adventure, curiosity is celebrated, and every child is inspired to thrive.

Schools can showcase themselves in their local communities with coverage in their local edition of ‘The Local Paper’. To advertise school activities such as Open Days or special events, an advertising campaign in The Local Paper can be a cost effective way of promotion.

Boost enrolments, congratulate students on their achievements, and keep the community in touch with a school’s latest news, by organising advertising in The Local Paper. Your message will appear in print and online. Contact the team at The Local Paper on phone 1800 231 311.

● ● Angela Tonkin

● ● ● ● Trish Vandekolk

Berlin returns

■ Joanna Murray-Smith's Berlin returns to Melbourne from February 27 to March 6 at the Meat Market, North Melbourne

Directed by Erica Chestnut and starring Georgia Latchford and Lachlan Hamill, the romantic thriller by one of Australia’s most renowned playwrights tells of a chance encounter in a Berlin bar which sparks a latenight connection between Tom, an Australian abroad, and Charlotte, a local stranger.

But as their flirtations evolve into something deeper, long-buried secrets begin to surface, setting the stage for a heart-stopping journey.

Produced by Little Life Productions, the provocative play explores the complex intersection of passion and the past.

Audiences are asked to prepare for a night of suspense, heartbreak, and unexpected twists, as two actors go head-to-head in a theatrical showdown questioning whether love can truly survive the weight of history.

“Berlin is a romantic thriller that pits the devastating shadow of history against the dazzling promise of true love,” said producer and performer Lachlan Hamill

Berlin will play a strictly limited season at Meat Market, North Melbourne, from February 27 to March 6. The show runs for 90 minutes without intermission.

Tickets for Berlin start at $40 plus booking fee, and are now on sale. Bookings: events.humanitix.com/berlin - Cheryl Threadgold

Romeo and Juliet

■ Melbourne Shakespeare Company presents Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, set against the lush backdrop of Central Park, Malvern, from February 28 to March 16..

Transported to the intrigue-filled streets of 1940s Vienna, where secrets lurk in the shadows, this 90-minute production combines Shakespeare’s immortal words with the charm of The Third Man and the intimacy of acoustic music.

The show features a live soundtrack of pop classics reimagined by Musical Director Natalie Calia. Directed by Emma Austin (Much Ado About Nothing in 2024) , this production promises a mix of romance, drama, and moments of humor.

“Romeo and Juliet is more than a tragedy—it’s a celebration of passion, hope, and the complexities of love,” says Director Emma Austin

“We’ve crafted a vibrant world where Shakespeare’s words collide with contemporary music and heartfelt storytelling to create an experience audiences will never forget.”

“Melbourne Shakespeare Company encourages audiences to make the evening their own—pack a picnic, pour your favorite drink, or curate a platter that even the Capulets would envy."

True to their commitment to sustainable theatre, Melbourne Shakespeare Company’s costumes and sets are made entirely from reclaimed and recycled materials, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Performance Season: February 28March 16

Location: Central Park, Malvern

Bookings: melbourneshakespeare.com - Cheryl Threadgold

Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

VALE RON FIELD

■ Theatre identity Ron Field passed away peacefully in his 100th year on January 20.

Born in Wandsworth, England, on October 7, 1925, Ron's passion for theatre was discovered when he left home at 15 and lived in a boarding house full of actors from the local theatre. He was invited backstage, saw how everything worked and wanted to be part of it.

He volunteered for the Royal Navy on his 17th birthday and served until World War II ended in 1945. Slightly injured at the end of the war, Ron was sent to a naval hospital in Sydney where he liked what he saw, returning to Australia in 1949 as a '10 pound Pom'.

On arrival in Australia, Ron pursued his love of theatre, becoming Stage Director of the Arrow Theatre in 1950, then at the Union Theatre Repertory Company, then the Australian Elizabethan Theatre Trust

In 1959, Ron was appointed Manager of the Union Theatre, University of Melbourne, where he met his future wife, Margaret, and then became Administrator of the Union Theatre until his retirement in 1984.

A visit to his wife's family inspired Ron to choose Swan Hill as a good place to retire. He purchased a house and immediately became involved with the Swan Hill Theatre Group, producing and directing 34 productions from 1985 to 2008.

Swan Hill audiences were treated to two productions each year, 15 musicals, sixteen plays/ dramas and three pantomimes.

Accordingly, Ron is said to have had a profound influence on the lives and future aspirations of hundreds of local people. The majority of his productions involved the youth of Swan Hill. In acknowledgement of his fine work, in 2012 Ron was awarded Life Membership of the Swan Hill Theatre Group.

Ron oversaw every aspect of all productions and was fortunate to have a large pool of talented actors, musicians, choreographers, wardrobe and backstage personnel to present standout productions.

Said to have been devoted to perfection, Ron expected the same from all involved. If producing a show, it was not unusual for Ron to be working at 4am building sets, much to the consternation of the neighbours.

Ron was involved in the first production of Summer of the Seventeenth Doll in 1955, forming a life-long friendship with the playwright, Ray Lawler. On the 50th anniversary of this production, Ron produced/directed the play for the Swan Hill Theatre Group, aged 80.

In 2016, Ron followed relatives Bryan and Beverley Mackenzie to Drysdale, where he lived comfortably and independently until his health declined and he moved into the Drysdale Grove Nursing Home last year.

In accordance with his wishes, Ron was privately cremated and his ashes will be interred in the rose garden at the Swan Hill Cemetery on a date to be announced. All who wish to attend will be most welcome.

- Cheryl Threadgold

The Butcher, The Baker

■ As part of this year’s Midsumma Festival, Theatre Works and Ella Filar presented The Butcher, The Baker … a musical theatre play that had wonderful songs and music but which suffered from a poor narrative structure and mediocre dialogue.

A woman, Honey (played by Natasha Broadstock), in order to more fully understand a crush and obsession she has with her butcher, Johnny (Fletcher Dyson), disguises herself as a male brain surgeon, Alex (Claire Nicholls).

Hijinks and misunderstandings follow as Honey explores her attraction to the butcher with the surgeon as her proxy.

The script was written by Ella Filar who also composed and directed the music. The songs and music were wonderful with a tight quartet of sax, violin, keyboards and percussion back

ing singers Myf Powell and Bruce Langdon who were credited simply as ‘voices’.

The songs either commented on or developed the narrative and were interlaced between scenes involving the three characters.

Unfortunately, it was here, in the text and dialogue of the scenes between characters, that the piece lacked polish; the language was often cliched and, at times, the storyline was difficult to follow.

This was not, however, due to a lack of effort nor skill on the part of Broadstock, Dyson and Nicholls who all gave strong performances as they earnestly worked at making sense of the script.

Each of them successfully captured the style of the play while bringing their characters to life.

Their work in this regard was well supported by the director Kevin Hopkins. Given the challenging shortcomings of the script and the musical theatre style, he held the whole piece together through his direction, even if he was less successful in blending together the ordinary and fantastic elements of the action.

Generally speaking then the quality of the singing and music failed to compensate for the script which, while having its moments, always felt like it needed further rewriting to improve dialogue and structure.

Presented at the Explosives Factory, St Kilda - Review by Peter Murphy

And Then There Were None

■ Agatha Christie's thriller And Then There Were None runs until March 23 at the Comedy Theatre, Melbourne.

Directed by Robyn Nevin, this brand new production of the best-selling crime novel tells of ten strangers lured to a solitary mansion on an island off the English coast.

When a storm cuts them off from the mainland and one of the party dies, they realise they may be harbouring a murderer among them and the true reason for their presence on the island becomes horribly clear.

Starring Jack Bannister, Eden Falk, Jennifer Flowers, Nicholas Hammond, Mia Morrissey, Peter O'Brien, Christen O'Leary, Chris Parker, Anthony Phelan, Grant Piro and Tom Stokes.

Performance Season: Until March 23 Venue: Comedy Theatre, Melbourne Bookings:andthentherewerenone.com.au/ tickets/melbourne/ - Cheryl Threadgold

Kusama at NGV

■ The National Gallery of Victoria International has another brilliant blockbuster must-see exhibition currently showing in its retrospective of the work of internationallyacclaimed Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama

The exhibition is organised chronologically and spans almost nine decades; from work produced in her childhood to her work in New York’s avante-garde scene in the sixties to creations made last year.

Almost 200 pieces are on display which are produced in a range of different mediums exemplifying her multi-disciplinary practice which includes installation, collage, film, painting, fashion and sculpture.

They include significant pieces which have helped shape major art movements such as minimalism, pop art and feminist art.

Thematically the show is rich and covers her foray into fashion clothing, her vibrant immediately recognisable polka-dotted pumpkin and flower sculptures and her famous immersive installations such as multi-mirrored infinity rooms which visually create the illusion of infinite space.

Art, for Kusama , is deeply personal in nature as it helps alleviate mental health problems that have plagued her for many years. It allows her to express her fears and anxieties as she grapples with psychological and sexual concerns.

Somewhat surprisingly though, apart from one or two pieces, the work itself is not that confronting or upsetting.

Instead, Kusama’s work successfully seeks to convey the beauty and complexity of the natural world.

At times some of the work has echoes of Australian indigenous art in its use of organic forms and patterns drawn from nature. Elsewhere the work consists of elaborate structures made from materials not found in the natural world.

With such materials the artist creates amazing environments and spaces that bewitch bewilder and bemuse. Throughout it all there is a sense of playfulness, exploration and wonder.

This exhibition then is a once-in-a-life-time opportunity to see and engage with the wonderful artwork of the iconic, idiosyncratic, ground-breaking and inspiring Kusama; highly recommended.

Venue: NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

Dates and times:Until April 21; check website below for days and times

Tickets: ngv.vic.gov.au/exhibition/yayoikusama/

For further information: ngv.vic.gov.au/exhibition/yayoi-kusama/

- Review by Peter Murphy

Jesus Christ Superstar

■ Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber's rock masterpiece Jesus Christ Superstar will play at Melbourne's Princess Theatre from March 16, running until June 22.

This new production stars Australian musician Michael Paynter, musical theatre star Javon King and soul and blues 'powerhouse' Mahalia Barnes

Producer John Frost, on behalf of his coproducers, said: “I am delighted to be bringing this award-winning production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s much loved rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar to Melbourne . I’m also very excited that Michael, Javon and Mahalia are leading the cast. They are all extraordinary singers and musicians who will bring their unique experience and talent to these iconic roles. This is going to be a very special experience for cast and audiences alike.”

Jesus Christ Superstar is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events during the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of Judas. Venue: Princess Theatre, Melbourne

Season: From March 16

Performance Times: Tue.-Thurs. 7pm, Fri.- Sat. 7.30pm, Matinees Wed. 1pm, Sat. 2pm, Sun. 1pm and 6pm (performance times vary each week)

- Cheryl Threadgold

● ● ● ● Ron Field

●

● Oliver Tapp (Romeo) and Marlena Thomson (Juliet) in Melbourne Shakespeare Company's Romeo and Juliet. Photo: Nick Robertson

LADIES IN BLACK Shows

■ Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria: Fledermaus! February 22, 23, March 1, 2 at The Knowe, 4 Clarkmont Rd., Sassafras. March 8, 9 at The Round Studio, Nunawading. April 12 at Moe Plaza. Director: Robert Ray; Musical Director: Geoffrey Urquhart. Bookings: gsov.org.au

■ PEP Productions: The Toxic Avenger (musical) February Until February 22 at the Doncaster Playhouse, 679 Doncaster Rd., Doncaster. Director/choreographer: Natasha Harvey; Co-Musical Directors: Daniel Kim and Kristie Thai; Ass’t. Choreographer: Xi Gui Griffi. Bookings:

■ Geelong Repertory Theatre Company: Bondi Legal (by Tony Laumberg) Until February 22 at the Woodbin Theatre, 15 Coronation St., Geelong West. Director: Scott Beaton. Bookings: Geelong Arts Centre 1300 251 200 geelongartscentre.org.au

■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Wicked Sisters (by Alma de Groen) Until March 3 at Williamstown Little Theatre, 2 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Ellis Ebell. Bookings: wlt.org.au/

■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Moon Over Buffalo (a comedy by Ken Ludwig) Until March 1 at the Lilydale Mechanics’ Institute, Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Ian Frost. Bookings: lilydaleatc.com

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Jeeves and Wooster in Perfect Nonsence (by The Goodale Brothers) Until March 1 at Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Morgan Thomas-Connor. Bookings: htc.org.au

■ Malvern Theatre: The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race (by Melanie Tait) Until March 1 at Malvern Theatre, 29 Burke Rd., Malvern. Director: Helen Ellis. Bookings: malverntheatre.com.au

■ The Basin Theatre Company: Home, I’m Darling (by Laura Wade) February 20 –March 2 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Bob Bramble. Bookings: thebasintheatre.org.au

■ The 1812 Theatre: Spider’s Web (by Agatha Christie) February 20 – March 14 at The 1812 Theatre, Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: John Mills. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au

■ Eltham Little Theatre: The Diary of Anne Frank (by Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett) February 21 – March 8 at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Rd., Research. Director: Steve Saul. Elthamlittletheatre.org.au

■ Peridot Theatre: The Architect (by Aiden Fennessy) February 21 – March 2 at the Clayton Theatrette, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: Jen Bite. Bookings: peridot.com.au

■ The Mount Players: The Importance of Being Earnest (by Oscar Wilde) February 21

– March 9 at The Mountview Theatre, 63 Smith St., Macedon. Director: Vicki Smith. Bookings: themountplayers.com

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Holmes and Watson (by Jeffrey Hatcher) February 27 – March 8 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Mordialloc. Director: Amy Calvert. Bookings: mordialloctheatre.com.au

■ Phoenix Theatre Company: Head Over Heels - the Musical (adapted by James MacGruder) February 28 – March 8 at the Doncaster Playhouse. Bookings: phoenixtheatre.org

■ GAB Theatre: Charlotte’s Web (adapted from the book by E.B. White by Joseph Robinette) March 1 at 2pm, 7.30pm; March 2 at 2pm at the Lancefield Mechanics Institute. Director: George Benca. Table seating. BYO nibbles and a drink. Bookings: www.trybooking.com/CVYOS

■ Beaumaris Theatre: Ladies in Black (Book by Carolyn Burns Music and Lyrics by Tim Finn Based on the novel “The Women in Black” by Madeline St John) March 7 – 22 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Debbie Keyt. Musical Director: Rhonda Vaughan; Choreographer: Camilla Klesman. Bookings: beaumaristheatre.com.au

■ CentreStage: Come from Away. March 7

– 22 at The Playhouse, Geelong Performing Arts Centre, 50 Malop St., Geelong. Bookings: centrestage.org.au/event - Cheryl Threadgold

■ Beaumaris Theatre presents the coming-ofage musical Ladies in Black from March 7-22 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd, Beaumaris.

Set in Sydney in the 1950s, the musical tells of young, intelligent, bookish school leaver, Lisa, who embarks on a summer job between completing her Leaving Certificate and following her dreams of a Literature degree at Sydney University.

Lisa joins the sales staff in the fashionable department store, F.G. Goode’s, and it’s a summer that changes her life as she befriends the colourful denizens of the women’s clothing department.

Each of the characters is on the precipice of change-facing independence, working for a living and what it means to be a woman.

With the book by Carolyn Burns, music and lyrics by Tim Finn and adapted from the book The Women in Black by Madeleine St John, Beaumaris Theatre's production is directed by Debbie Keyt, the musical director is Rhonda Vaughan and choreography is by Camilla Klesman.

Performance Details: March 7-22

Venue: Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris

Bookings: beaumaristheatre.com.au

- Cheryl Threadgold

Moon Over Buffalo

■ The Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company presents the comedy Moon Over Buffalo until March 1 at 39-41 Castella St, Lilydale.

Written by Ken Ludwig and directed by Ian Frost, Moon Over Buffalo is set in 1953.

George and Charlotte Hay are two fading stars concurrently appearing in two plays, Private Lives and Cyrano de Bergerac in Buffalo, New York

Their marriage is on the brink of a split up, caused by George’s ‘interest’ in a young actress.

Mega Hollywood director, Frank Capra, is coming to see their matinee … if he likes what he sees, it could be the big Hollywood break they are looking for.

Mayhem and naked ambition take over as George and Charlotte do anything and everything in their power to make Capra love them.

Performance Details: Until March 1. Matinees Feb 22, 23 and March 1.

Venue: Lilydale Mechanics' Institute, 39-41 Castella St., Lilydale.

Bookings: lilydaleatc.com/ticket-information

- Cheryl Threadgold

More Shows

■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group: Sex Please, We’re Sixty (by Michael Parker and Susan Parker) March 13 – 22 at the Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman St., Strathmore. Director: Luisa Romeo. Bookings: stagtheatre.org

■ Essendon Theatre Company: Love, Love, Love (by Mike Bartlett) March 20 – 29 at the Bradshaw Street Hall, Bradshaw St., West Essendon. Director: Casey Bohan. Bookings: 0406448368 or trybooking.

■ Fab Nobs Theatre: Come From Away. March 21 – April 5 at Fab Nobs Theatre, Factory 33, 1-45 Industry Place, Bayswater. Director: Sarah Tierney; Musical Director: Sally McKenzie; Ass’t. Director/Choreographer: Aimee John; Ass’t. Director/Ass’t. Choreographer: Amy Miles. Bookings: fabnobstheatre.com.au

■ The 1812 Theatre: The Thrill of Love (by Amanda Whittington) April 3 – May 3 at The Bakery, The 1812 Theatre, 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Pip Le Blond. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au or 9758 3964

■ F.A.M.DA.: Noises Off! (by Michael Frayn) April 4 – 13 at the Foster War Memorial Arts Centre. Director: Peter McAlpine. Bookings: famda.org.au

■ CPP Community Theatre: Macbeth (by William Shakespeare) April 4 – 12 at Boronia K-12 College, Performing Arts Centre, Albert Avenue, Boronia. (park at Rangeview Rd. end). Director: Kathryn White. Bookings: cppcommunitytheatre.com.au/ - Cheryl Threadgold

Macbeth at CPP

■ CPP Community Theatre presents William Shakespeare's Macbeth from April 4-12 at the Boronia K-12 College Performing Arts Centre, Boronia.

Directed by Kathryn White, CPP Community Theatre is excited to be presenting this play that explores the themes of ambition, guilt, and the corrupting influence of power:

"We meet Macbeth, the ambitious nobleman whom three Witches prophesize will become King of Scotland

“Spurred on by the Witches’ prediction and the ambition of his wife, Lady Macbeth, Macbeth murders King Duncan to seize the throne.

“His ascent complete and his destiny fulfilled, he is consumed by guilt and paranoia, descending into tyranny and committing further atrocities to maintain his power.

“As Macbeth’s reign of terror spirals out of control he faces rebellion, a wife consumed by madness, and the inevitability of his ultimate downfall."

Performance Dates: April 4, 5, 10, 11 at 8pm; April 5 at 2pm; April 6, 12 at 5pm

Venue: Boronia K-12 College, Performing Arts Centre, Albert Ave., Boronia (park at Rangeview Rd. end)

Ticketing Link: cppcommunitytheatre. com.au/

- Cheryl Threadgold

● ● ● ● (From left) Matt Brodie, Aidan Salmon, Jake Turner-Clarkson, Miranda Frost and Raj Mukherjee rehearse Macbeth.

Morning Melodies

■ This year, Arts Centre Melbourne's Morning Melodies concert series celebrates 40 years, having presented over 450 live performances to more than half a million audience members. Versatile performer Darren Coggan will entertain at the next Morning Melodies on Monday, March 3 at 11am and 1.30pm at Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne. Showcasing a selection of songs from his albums, from folk to country to classic rock, Darren will pay heartfelt tributes to legends like Glen Campbell, James Taylor, John Denver and Cat Stevens. Performance Details: Monday, March 3 at 11 m and 1.30pm. Venue: Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne. Duration: One hour. Bookings: artscentremelbourne.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

Opera at Brewery

Put an Ausssie spin on that idea and you have Opera at the Brewery.

Young Melbourne opera singers Leah Phillips and Luke Belle are determined to remove the stuffiness some people associate with opera and bring it to where patrons feel at home - in this case it’s at Ramblers Ale Works, 96 Riversdale Road in Hawthorn East on Thursday, March 6, at 7pm.

Leah and Luke promise a night of opera hits accompanied by live piano, that will win your ears over in a relaxed setting while you kick back with a drink.

And for those who feel they may need a break from this high art, there is even an outdoor area for a chat and a drink.

This innovative concept is designed to win over a new audience for their beloved art form, and audiences can either book a table for eight, select cabaret seating at tables of four, or even go for free as standing room patrons.

Whatever your preference, this sounds like a fun night out with two dedicated and entrepreneurial singers whose music will delight the ear.

- Julie Houghton

Auditions

■ Peridot Theatre Company: Proof (by David Auburn) February 23 at 6pm, February 24 at 7.30pm at Fleigner Hall, 31-39 Highland Ave, Oakleigh East. Director: Damian Jones. Audition bookings: peridot.com.au

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: The Children (by Lucy Kirkwood) March 2 at 2pm, March 3 at 8pm at Unit 8, 417-419 Warrigal Rd Cheltenham. Director: Peter Newling. Audition enquiries: 0419 205 200 or e-mail: peter.newling@gmail.com. Audition bookings: mordialloctheatre.com.au/auditions-thechildren/

■ Beaumaris Theatre: Knife Edge (by Alison Campbell Rate) February 26 and March 1 at Beaumaris Theatre 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Deborah Fabbro. Further details: beaumaristheatre.com.au/auditions

■ Malvern Theatre Company: Macbeth (by William Shakespeare) March 9 at 6pm, March 10 at 7pm at Malvern Theatre, 29 Burke Rd., Malvern. Director: David McLean. Audition enquiries: davidwilliam17@bigpond.com

■ Gem Players Community Theatre: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: Information Evening: May 29 at 7pm; Auditions June 6 and 7 at the GEM,19 Kilvington Dr., Emerald. Director: Annette O’Shea; Choreographer: Payge O’Shea; Musical Director: Margie Gemmell\. Enquiries: gemcoplayers.org

- Cheryl Threadgold

Media Flashes

■ Liz Hayes has announced that she will pursue new opportunities outside of the Nine Network in 2025. She has been with the network for 44 years.

■ Tim Lester will return to Canberra as a Political Reporter following more than four years as the US Correspondent for Seven News.

● ● ● ● Rose Chambers (Lisa) in Ladies in Black. Photo: Debbie Keyt.

● ● Leah Phillips Photo: Jennifer Armour.

■ Popular opinion is that wine and song are a natural match.

★Cold Chisel guitar legend Ian Moss has announced the release of his forthcoming album Live At Anita’s on Friday, May 2.

★Matilda Caughey has joined the Melbourne Observer as part of the honorary reviewers' team, and will be filing reviews including those for the Melbourne International Comedy Festival

★The Herald Sun Run For The Kids will be held on Sunday, April 6, in aid of the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

★Fred Mitchell has assembled a new book, Retro Melbourne, which is a pictorial feast of rare images of the city, suburbs and country centres taken in the 1950s, 1960s and early 1970s.

★Footscray West Writers Fest is being held rom March 28 to March 30 with highlights including Helen Garner and Bob Murphy in conversation with Mel Fulton on The Season, sport, belonging and community.

★The FWWF will also feature Stories from the Belly of the West: local authors present original, site-specific stories inspired by Footscray's iconic places. Authors include Alice Pung, Jinghua Qian, Emilie Collyer, Sam Elkin, Tina Cartwright and Rijn Collins, plus Maxine Beneba Clarke, Ernest Price and André Dao

★The Australian Toy Hobby and Licensing Fair is being held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from Sunday March 2 until Wednesday March 5.

★The 2025 Spectacular Sum mer of Sidney Myer Free Concerts continues this Saturday (Feb,. 22) with Symphonic Showcase conducted by Benjamin Northey. It will features premieres from Cybec Young Composer in Residence Klearhos Murphy abd the MSO's inaugural Cybec First Nations Composer in Residence James Henry

★Wildlife Victoria's Travelling Veterinary Service has receiving a donation of IV fluids from Australian Red Cross Lifeblood as a part of their Saline for Vets program.

★Melbourne's celebrated res taurant, The Roe, is featured in White Rock, a documentary that will be showcased at the 2025 Ocean Film Festival World Tour.

★The Fox breakfast show cohost Brendan Fevola has revealed a career move as the forward line coach of Richmond AFLW

★Shuzo Otani , Area Vice President (APAC Aerospace and Defense) and Brigadier General (retired) Steve Bleymaier, Chief Technology Officer (Aerospace and Defense) at Ansys Inc. will present as part of The Hub program at Avalon 2025 (March 2530).

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Cicero

Marc Cicero

★Some 21 junior cricket clubs will receive funding totalling $78,000 in grants delivering projects that develop or improve electrical safety in their club canteens. The project is run by CitiPower and Cricket Victoria

★Four stars for the Brotherhood series currently on Paramount Plus. ★★★★

★The Australian Film Televi sion and Radio School, RMIT University and industry have partnered on a new short course in Melbourne for people considering a new career - or career changeinto film and TV location management.

★Lions volunteers came to gether last Satyurday (Feb. 15) for the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation to help fund life-saving research.

★The Herb and Chilli Festival is set to ignite Wandin with a celebration of international flavours, live music, and culinary delights on the weekend of March 15-16.

★FAB Organic Wine and Spirits is bringing nine global industry leaders to Melbourne this Sunday (Feb. 23) for a one-off tasting event at West Side Wine, 645 Little Lonsdale St , Melbourne

★Drag Race Down Under Season 4 , hosted by Lazy Susan, will be at Trak on Friday, March 28. Attractions include Brenda Bressed, Freya Armani, Karna Ford, Lucina Innocence, Mandy Moobs, Max Drag Queen, Nikita Iman, Olivia Dreams and Vybe.

★The Bluey Live Interactive Experience is coming to Melbourne Zoo from March 8-30.

★ The 2025 launch of Melbourne Conversations, a free public talks series, opens with This Is Public… Space , from 6pm-7.15pm on Monday February 24 at The Edge at Fed Square

★Rural Aid, dedicated to sup porting the agricultural community, has announce the appointment of Luke Chandler to its Board.

★The Moonee Valley Festival 2025 is this Saturday (Feb. 22) including live music events.

Macbeth film review

■ This engrossing black and white film of the enduring Shakespeare tragedy Macbeth is probably best suited to an audience who know the story. Some character transformations without clearer costume may confuse.

That said, the uniform-like costumes, set and monochrome colouring, have a hypnotizing synchronicity that pull you towards the enduring brilliance of Shakespeare’s words.

This film is a powerful study of the mental journey of a couple who feel each other’s deepest secrets.

The camera captures superbly the moment Macbeth (David Tennant) realises that his wife instinctively knows his hideous desire to speed the process of becoming king, by violent means.

The lens work exposes Macbeth and Lady Macbeth’s (Cush Jumbo) deteriorating control and the psychological weight of guilt and desire which is slowly breaking down their minds.

The chaotic witches’ prophesies of the future was particularly interesting, spoken by the cast in a hurly burly bedlam of movement and vocal grabs – like surfacing unmanageable worries about the country’s gathering suspicions.

The darting eyes of Lady Macbeth spiralling downwards are closely unsettling.

This five-star production is set on a thrust style white raised square with cast choreographed architecturally around, linear, criss-crossing, often becoming like Greek chorus, moving the story forward.

The straight judgement line versus Macbeth wandering as the ruination of nature is recounted is perfectly executed.

Spellbinding moments are captured – a snakeskin-like bowl of water, startling raven sounds, highland party music, a lone pipe, the swish of a vanishing ghost ...

David Tennant’s “Tomorrow and tomorrow ...” soliloquy , close framed in the glass doorway, empty even of sorrow, desire to fight lost ... but he must continue, grasping still for his wrangled brain’s dreams.

This is powerful ensemble work, cleverly filmed to capture tension and horror as we journey into dark souls and what has driven them to the abyss.

Distributed by Sharmill Films Macbeth is in Australian cinemas from February 20.

- Review by Maggie Morrison

and Cush Jumbo

Macbeth.

The Last Showgirl

■ (MA). 85 minutes. Opens in selected cinemas February 20.

Much has been made of 80’s bombshell icon Pamela Anderson’s comeback role, but unfortunately the film doesn’t come close to matching the hype, an empty feature that gives its star very little to do.

Anderson stars as Shelly, a legendary Vegas showgirl who has been part of a long-running, hugely successful show called Razzle Dazzle

As audience demands change, wanting more explicit stage acts, the production’s ticket sales have dropped in recent years.

After three decades, the organisers decide to end the show in two weeks.

This sudden decision puts Shelly into crisis mode, as she has known nothing else, and now being in her fifties, wonders if she’ll be able to find another job in the industry.

Shelly is seen as a mother-type figure to much younger dancers Jodie (Kiernan Shipka) and MaryAnne (Brenda Song), who are far more at ease with the decision, as given their age, they’ll be able to move on to other shows.

Behind the scenes is Eddie (Dave Bautista) , who genuinely cares about the dancers, and is the one to break the bad news to them.

Also in Shelly’s life is longtime friend, ex-dancer, now casino barmaid Annette (Jamie Lee Curtis), and estranged daughter Hannah (Billie Lourd), who has just finished university and has arrived on the scene out of curiosity, to see if what her mother does was worth ignoring her child’s needs.

For anyone who has seen Darren Aronofsky’s superb 2008 drama The Wrestler, they will find many similarities with the material here, but while writer Robert Siegel and the director took the time to build its world and, more importantly, characters, Kate Gersten’s script is the exact opposite, offering next-to-no detail or insight (which is made even more apparent with its scant, 85 minute running time).

Director Gia Coppola (granddaughter of Francis Ford Coppola) seems to be trying to imitate an independent film rather than actually creating a low-key, intimate portrait of someone trying to figure out what to do later in their life.

Not helping is some truly awful cinematography, too often feeling like a parody of the infamous Dogma movies.

The cast try hard, but find it difficult rising above the one-dimensional script and superficial direction.

Anderson is okay, while Curtis delivers her second misjudged performance in recent times (after Borderlands), and Bautista is acceptable in an understated turn.

Faring best is Shipka (Longlegs, The Chilling Adventures Of Sabrina), bringing some emotion to a film that is in desperate need of it.

The Last Showgirl is a huge disappointment, as everything was there to create a poignant, critical drama, but the actual result is hollow and forgettable, seeing an actor not given a chance to truly prove what she can do.

Watch the Netflix documentary Pamela, A Love Story instead.

RATING - **

Heart Eyes

■ (MA). 97 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.

The latest horror/comedy to ride on the coattails of the long-running Scream franchise, Heart Eyes is an intermittently amusing, but overall frustrating entry in this sub-genre, running out of steam before the end credits roll.

Olivia Holt plays Ally, who works for a popular advertising agency, and looks like she is about to get fired after creating a misfired ad campaign, using doomed lovers to sell jewellery.

Freelance ad genius Jay (Mason Gooding) is brought in to fix the problem, and although there seems to be friction between the two, the immediate chemistry is obvious.

This romantic scenario plays out against a slasher story, as a masked serial killer known as Heart Eyes is slaughtering couples every Valentine’s Day.

With police on the case, Ally and Jay find out that they have attracted the attention of the mysterious psycho, and have to team up to survive the onslaught.

Director Josh Ruben , who helmed the fun Werewolves Within and the superior Scare Me, does his best to blend romantic comedy and gory horror, but is undermined by a clumsy, obvious script, co-written by Christopher Landon, who made the equally frustrating Happy Death Day movies and Freaky What keeps one mildly interested are the two leads, who deliver likeable performances, and it definitely helps as the film’s energy level sputters in the latter stages, especially during its flat finale. While watchable enough and certainly slick, Heart Eyes never becomes the truly fun film it could have, and could have been the slasher equivalent Shaun Of The Dead.

RATING - **½ - Aaron Rourke

● ● David Tennant (Macbeth)

(Lady Macbeth) in

Photo: Marc Brenner

■ When I was a teenager I had all the singles by Bobby Rydell on 45 rpm records. I am sure many of our readers were also fans.

He had a bright and breezy style which endeared him to fans throughout the world.

Robert Louis Ridarelli was born in 1942 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He won a talent quest on the television show Paul Whiteman’s TV Teen Club when he was only eight and worked with various bands throughout his teenage years.

He was 17 when he signed a recording contract with Cameo Records under the name of Bobby Rydell.

His firsthit was Kissin Time got into the hit parade in 1959. The following year Bobby had a string of hit songs which included Swinging School, Volaro, Forget Him and Sway.

In 1960 Bobby made his first visit to Australia in one of the Lee Gordon Big Shows.

He recalled when his plane touched down in Sydney there were hundreds of teenagers at the airport.

As Bobby and the Everly Brothers stepped off the plane, the crowd surged past them to surround Billy ‘Crash’ Craddock who was huge with Australian teenagers but practically unknown at that time in America.

Bobby Rydell was cast asd ‘Hugo Peabody’ in the 1963 film Bye bye Birdie where he starred with Dick Van Dyke, Ann-Margret and Janet Leigh.

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Whatever Happened To ... Bobby Rydell

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

He also guest starred in television series such as Combat, Make Room For Daddy and My Two Dads.

In Australia, Bobby was a regular guest on television shows such as the Don Lane Show, The Midday Show and Brian Henderson’s Bandstand.

He married Camille Quattrone in 1968 at Stella Maris Catholic Church in South Philadelphia and there were 1000 fans in attendance.

The marriage was very happy and the couple had two childrne. Sadly, Camille died of cancer in 2003 and six years later Bobby married his second wife Linda Hoffman.

In the film Grease the high school ‘Rydell

High is named in his honour. In the 1980s Bobby joined with Frankie Avalon and Fabian to tout in a show titled The Golden Boys of Bandstand in venues in Las Vegas and Atlantic City.

Several years ago Bobby asked m,e if I had a copy of his record Kissin Time Australia Way as he could not find a copy and he needed it to write the music arrangements for his band. I was happy to oblige.

I had the pleasure of seeing Bobby perform in Melbourne at The Palms at Crown in a soldout show - and ‘guess what’... the show opened with Bobby bouncing out onstage to sing Kissin Time Australia Way.

In his later years this fantastic singher had open heart surgery, a liver and a kidney transplant, and he bounced back singing better than ever.

Bobby lobed Australia, and Australia loved the singer from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Sadly, Bobby Rydell passed awayon April 5, 2022 from complications of pneumonia. His music lives on through his recordings.

Kevin Trask

Kevin can be heard on 3AW -

The Time Tunnel - Remember WhenSundays at 10.10pm with Simon Owen and Andrew McLaren. And on 96.5 FM

That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon.

www.innerfm.org.au

DEJA VU - FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME

Déjà vu – Mark Forbes is a captivating exhibition of C-Type prints featuring a number of large scale images from Mark Forbes’s recent monograph Collected Memories alongside a handful of images that have not been shared anywhere previously before.

The images Déjà vu explore hoe photographs evolve into memories over time, shaping personal and shared narratives.

Photographed on medium format film, the series reflects mindfulness, storytelling, and the beauty found in life’s fleeing, everyday moments.

The imagery captures ordinary, often overlooked moments that evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing.

While deeply personal, the collection is designed to connect with viewers on an emotional level, inviting them to project their own stories and experiences onto the works.

This interplay between personal history and universal connection lies at the heart of the exhibition.

Exhibition closes Saturday March 1.

Kingston Art Gallery

979/985 Nepean Hwy, Moorabbin

Launch

Town Hall Gallery Program

Launch and Exhibition Opening.

Join the Gallery to celebrate the ;launch of the 2025 Town Hall Gallery Program as well as the official opening of three new exhibitions at Town Hall Gallery: major exhibition Seasonal Shifts, and community exhibitions: On Whose Shoulders I Stand On by Susie Raz, and Welcome to My World by Joshua Romas

Formalities will begin at 2.30pm in the Hawthorn Arts Centre foyer, followed by a series of curator and artist talks about each of the new exhibitions on display.

Free bookings encouraged.

Event :Saturday, February 22. 3pm4pm.

Town Hall Gallery

360 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn

At Convent

84

This

The Arts

veloped by Colin Hopkins during his 840-day residency at the Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park in Koka, Japan.

This exhibition features a series of small-scale ceramic pieces that explore the intersection of materiality, form, and spatial awareness, drawing on Hopkins’s diverse background in music, architecture and pottery.

During his time un Shigaraki, Hopkins immersed himself in the region’s centuries-old ceramic traditions, while also pushing the boundaries of technique through experimentation in clay throwing, glazing and firing. Working with locally sourced materials, his creations reflect a profound engagement with the raw, tactile nature of the medium, balanced by the precision and discipline he gained from his architectural background – heightened by the influence of renowned architectural design and craftmanship.

Each piece in the exhibition embodies a study in balance and tension, where the fluidity of the clay meets the careful structural considerations in inherent in Hopkins’s work. The pieces capture both the natural predictability of the material and the internal design space and form.

Exhibition opens February 20 and closes March 1. From 8am – 10pm.

Sullivan & Strumpf

Free Form – Contemporary Abstraction

Sullivan & Strumpf are excited to announce Free Form, a new exhibition bringing together key voices working in contemporary abstraction.

Since the early 1900s, abstract art has been central to the story of modern art.

Moving away from representational imagery, abstraction favoured the sensory and placed focus on colour, shape, for and gestural marks.

To abstract something is to reduce to its purest form or most simple interpretation.

Abstract art can be seen to hold spiritual and moral connotations for order and purity. It may also evoke lyrical qualities, influenced by sound and music.

Free Form seeks to share a fresh perspective on abstraction and how these influences still apply yet have come to find new meaning and relevance in contemporary practice.

Curated by Sullivan & Strumpf Associate Director Siobhan Sloper, the exhibition includes a diverse collection of works traversing painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography and video.

Exhibition closes March 8. Sullivan & Strumpf 107/109 Rupert St, Collingwood - Peter Kemp

Media People

■ Andrew McLaren has been confirmed as the 3AW Remember When co-host with Simon Owens.

■ Georgina Somerset has been named as the Deputy Chair of the ABC Board for a six-month term

■ Catherine Naylor has started as World Editor for The Age, based in Sydney

■ Ed Bourke is now a Sports Reporter at the Herald Sun. He takes on the role after two years covering sports for NewsWire, following a cadetship at the Herald Sun in 2022.

■ Pamela Hayden is the voice behind that legendry loser Milhouse in The Simpsons animated series. Although Pamela has retired from voicing Milhouse she has a particular project to complete. Pamela is soon to launch a new book' From Jailhouse to Milhouse'. The book chronicles her journey from teenage disasters including theft, jail, being a Playboy Bunny, then along came Milhouse, and those fun times lasted 35 years. Pamela wants her book to inspire others who are experiencing life on the edge .

Ads powered by bananas

■ I lost count of the number of times I saw players in the recent Australian Open, peeling and eating fresh bananas for energy. The eating sequence went around the world. AO organizers reckon 2000 kg of 'nanas were delivered for players, per day. A brilliant marketing coup engineered by the local Banana Board

Action at Anglesea

■ Yet another tele series is to be filmed in Victoria, this time in Anglesea. The project is a six-part series for the ABC titled 'The Family Next Door' based on a dramatic novel by Sally Hepworth. The novel received high praise by The New York Times. Emma Freeman is Director. Expect to see the series on ABC in the second half this year.

Ozzie’s final concert

■ Legendary wild man of rock, Ozzie Ozbourne, now 76, is battling Parkinson's disease. Although his voice is near perfect, he has signed for a final reunion concert with Black Sabbath on July 5, in Birmingham, UK. Ozzie is reduced to a wheelchair and his concert promises to b e a night of nights. He has not sung with Black Sabbath for 20 years.

Ben Cousins joins Mix

■

time

● ● ● ● Kevin Trask and Bobby Rydell

with Peter Kemp

One

super hero of the AFL, Ben Cousins, has added another string to his media bow. Ben will become a member of the brekky show on Perth’s Mix 94.5, as well as his reporting for Channel 7 Sports, Perth. Be a good boy, Benny

John O’Keefe

With John O’Keefe

● ● ● ● Milhouse

Today’s Menu

Charcuterie Boards:

Tapas Bar Home-Made Desserts

Great Range of Cocktails and Mocktails Available.

Teas and Coffees

Don’t forget our Famous Devonshire Tea

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Observer Melbourne Lovatts Crossword No 11

Across Across Down Down

1. More droopy

6. Dig

11. Legendary gold city (2,6)

15. Having a poor ear for pitch (4-4)

20. Relations

21. Undue speed

22. Pen name, ... de plume

23. Gleefully chuckles

24. Tent supports (3,5)

25. Jesus' home town

27. Singing with trills

28. Prima donna

29. Writer, ... Thomas

31. The O of PTO

32. A wolf in ... clothing (5'1)

36. ANC hero, Nelson ...

37. Within house

38. Lovely

41. Dutch centre of govt, The ...

44. Fishing-line fibre

45. Sample

48. Way of life

49. Very busy

52. Goose & ...

56. Out-of-vogue star (3-4)

57. Small stone

58. Most uptight

61. Arduous experience

62. Foretold

63. West African nation, Sierra ...

64. Warms

65. Fools

66. Cleaver

67. Without artifice

71. Toadstools

73. Silly

75. Catastrophes

80. Ignore

82. Ice-cream desserts

83. Globes

85. Acting as go-between

86. Treat cruelly (3-3)

88. African disease fly

90. Nourishing drinks (3,5)

91. Bible song

93. Current flow rating

94. Interjectors

95. Ski headwear accessory

96. Military flying facility (3,4)

97. No part

99. Burial vault

100. Removed from power

104. Hoist (flag)

105. Cat cry

106. Of sheep

107. Leaseholders

111. Slightly wet

113. Crab's pinch

114. Have

115. Wrath

117. Pitch tent

118. Should, ... to

121. Tribal post, ... pole

122. Moved slowly

125. Field

126. Jump high

127. The ... of Capri

129. Assistant

131. Opposed to

132. Releases grip (4,2)

135. Among

136. Emerald Isle

139. Hordes

140. Scolded

144. Eagle's nest

145. Chick's call

146. Aimed

147. Disengage (train carriages)

148. Splendid (mansion)

149. Public square

150. Lacking originality

152. Customary

154. Baton races

157. Flying saucers (1,1,2)

158. Blabs

162. Matching outfit

163. Meagre

166. Flag down (cab)

167. Speech defect

169. Butterfly catchers

171. Biblical you

172. US moon rocket

173. Composer, Andrew ... Webber

175. Cloth fold

176. Chock

179. Culminate in (4,2)

180. Wash lightly

182. Recline, ... down

183. Repetitive strain injury (1,1,1)

184. Grind (meat)

186. Powder, ... of Paris

189. Thread

190. Peace pact

191. Sense receptor

192. Said

196. Tenant's payment

197. Bellow

198. Vermouth cocktail

199. Remnants

201. Playing for time

202. Harvesters

203. Roof overhangs

204. Last Russian tsar

205. Entangle

208. To the rear

210. Bridge designer

211. Sector

212. Outdoors (4-3)

213. Sinks in middle

215. Unfavoured horses

219. Lead-in

221. Sunday joint

223. Not perfumed

227. Juvenile

228. Ambassador's office

230. Move with effort

231. Cut wildly

232. Pillages

233. Mutilate

234. Admire

238. Delighted

239. First

240. Meal

243. Approval

246. Loosen

247. Dough ingredient

250. Corn husks

251. Out of style

253. Laughing scavengers

256. Frequent visitor

257. Female betrothed

258. Cease

262. Spy, ... Hari

263. Steak cut (1-4)

266. Ark builder

268. WA wine-growing region, ... River

269. Business income

270. Artist's medium (3,5)

271. Sewer coverings

272. Born as

273. Man-made fabric

274. Raises (the ante)

275. Climbs down

276. London/Edinburgh express, Fly-

ing ...

277. Lacy robe

278. Roomy

1. Confronts

2. Holed atmosphere layer

3. Erect (3,2)

4. ... out a living

5. Coming up (of sun)

7. Red pepper spice

8. Brutal

9. Michael Flatley's Lord of ... (3,5)

10. Simple

11. Famous volcano

12. Inclinations

13. Continually (2,3,2)

14. Phenomenal

15. Turrets

16. Actor, ... Sharif

17. Fire fragment

18. Remove from home

19. Misty

24. Pastime

26. Multitude

30. Lounges about

33. Barn dance

34. Distinguished

35. Actor, Sam ...

38. Ringing (of bell)

39. Nudged

40. Drama venue

42. Afresh

43. Unties

46. Junkies

47. Compared to

49. Cooperative

50. Top of head

51. List down

53. Non-believer in God

54. Roman moon goddess

55. Staff schedules

59. Proximity

60. Able to be rubbed out

67. Uncared-for

68. Traffic jam (5-2)

69. Undoes (envelope)

70. Sly suggestion

72. Opening

74. Telling

76. Debatable

77. Energies

78. Copy

79. Siblings

81. Until now

84. Mattress frame

87. Paint thinners

89. Called

91. Autocue

92. Insane lady

98. Fireplace shelf

101. TV host, ... Dingo

102. Egg shapes

103. Give work to

108. Stoat

109. Colloquial language

110. Inspire

112. Inventiveness

116. Feared Mongolian ruler (7,4)

119. Inattentive

120. Grotesquely

123. Small coffee cup

124. Welcoming

128. Clinging gastropods

130. Hero-worship

132. Feebler

133. Fish commercially

134. Survive (3,2)

137. Turn out

138. Disgust

141. Granny Smith fruit

142. Cogwheel set

143. Personal memoirs

151. On dry land

153. Lucky charm

155. Dismiss (from college)

156. Map book

159. Desire for food

160. Tethered (4,2)

161. Pleads

164. Swiftly

165. Fluid unit

168. Laziness

170. Glimmers

173. Unused portion

174. Public referee

177. Filth

178. Coming into view

181. Water (pasture)

185. River flows

186. Allspice

187. Orange/pink shade

188. Libya's capital

193. Afternoon break

194. Vote back into office (2-5)

195. Wanted

200. Uniformity

201. Divide

206. Not either

207. Car horns

208. Takes into custody

209. Type of spanner

211. Appoints

214. Sultan's wife

216. Sissy

217. Austere

218. Disappoints

220. Hobo

222. Conscious (of fact)

224. Held tenderly

225. Subtleties of meaning

226. Infinite

229. Famous US university

232. Army dining room

235. And so forth (2,6)

236. Greek philosopher

237. Coffee drug

241. Legal trade ban

242. Lawsuits

244. Surgical blade

245. Kissing & cuddling

248. Eases off

249. Which

251. Repressed, ... up

252. Postage stickers

253. Hot & damp

254. Gains

255. Proverb

259. Moral principle

260. Eskimo hut

261. Cricket matches

262. Fix

264. Roughage

265. Midday

267. Padlock clasp

By Rob Foenander

Sally Storm

■ Ahead of a debut album due out later in the year, Melbourne alternative artist Hazel and The Thief have released a new single. Titled Sally Storm, the song paints a picture of a women by the name of Sally, who goes missing during a wild storm. It’s dark and quirky and a little sad. It captures Celtic influences plus the haunting beauty of the fiddle. The song is a powerful and unforget- table listening experience says their media release. Available for download on all digi- tal platforms from Feb. 21. More info www.facebook.com/gdayhazel

Woman in Moon

■ Local singer and entertainer Jennifer Lee’s new album Woman In The Moon is a fresh and soulful take on classic songs. With her warm, expressive vocals and longtime collaborator Walter O’Neill handling produc- tion and guitars, the album delivers 13 tracks that span different genres and eras. Walking After Midnight, State of the Heart, Waterloo Sunset are just a few classics that Jennifer puts her own spin on delivering something refreshingly different. Guest ap- pearances by Rob O’Neill and Rod Davies add extra flair to the project. More info: www.jenniferlee.music/overview

Darren Coggan

■ The Poems Prayers and Promises of the late John Denver will be brought to life once again by award winning performer Darren Coggan. Re-live the voice of a generation, in a celebration of one of the most inspiring and prolific singer songwriters of our time remarkedly re-created live by Darren. Memo Music Hall St Kilda on Sun. March 30 at 3 pm.Tickets at trybooking.com

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Macbeth at Royal Botanic Gardens

■ Would Shakespeare’s famous tragedy, Macbeth, suit outdoor presentation?

Would strong winds destroy vocal clarity?

Needless concerns in the Australian Shakespeare Company’s latest offering of Macbeth in the Royal Botanic Gardens.

The view on arrival with my picnic basket - a splendid back curtain of the Garden’s mature trees and a raised stage with a bleak layer of wooden seats, a table and an old castle tower.

All were used effectively for the requisite banquet ghost scene, the interior castle scenes and the uneven carpet of Dunsinane Wood Macbeth’s (Hugh Sexton) last commanding boast of immortality rang out from the tower of the castle before Macduff’s (Jackson McGovern) famous Caesarean birth shock news destroyed him.

Natural light managed to accentuate the show’s own. Daylight disappeared just on interval, and then darkness descended on us literally, as simultaneously the souls of the murdering couple metaphorically darkened further.

And a bonus, an eerie moon kept disappearing and reappearing, enhancing Peter Amesbury’s lighting. Who could ask for a better art/ nature combination?

And oh! the Highlander style costumes! The swords and barbaric

Crossword Solution No 11

fights and heads in bags.

Acclaim must go to Paul Norton, Sue-Ellen Shook, Karla Erenbots and Kaspa Elston.

The witches (Henny Walters, Madeleine Somers, Elizabeth Brennan) always open to speculative interpretation, had wild moorland clothing, crazy hair and the text’s “skinny fingers”.

The cauldron scene with the apparitions was quite marvelous, leading from the wildly bubbling pot to the apparitions.

The latter sped up on the now revolving castle as Banquo’s lineage hammered home Lady (Nicole Nabout) and Macbeth’s fastening spiral into madness – masterful.

As was (Luke Lennox’) Porter – superb calm before the storm.

A cast of 18 with several dual roles, all delivered with aplomb. 20 years on and Glen Elston’s Australian Shakespeare Company is as vital and enchanting as ever.

And his direction as engaging. New interpretations successfully come and go, and this ruthless Jacobean style Macbeth is another winner.

A picnic and a murder – I hope you’ve booked . Tickets: $35 - $100 until Feb 28

Venue: Royal Botanic Gardens

Bookings: shakespeare australia.com.au/shows/macbeth - Maggie Morrison

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Hugh Sexton (Macbeth) and Company in the Australian Shakespeare Company's Macbeth. Photo: Ben Fon

RAIN AFFECTS CRICKET MATCH RESULTS

Amateurs

■ Premier Firsts. Round 19. Two Day. Sats., Feb. 8 and 15. St Kilda 1st XI 10/ 234 v Casey South Melbourne 1st XI 10/181. Prahran 1st XI 10/288 v Melbourne 1st XI 7-d/ 295. Carlton 1st XI 10/205 v Ringwood 1st XI 5/206. Melbourne University 1st XI 6/181 v Northcote 1st XI 10/284. Geelong 1st XI 10/ 145 v Footscray 1st XI 6/166. Dandenong 1st XI 4/131 v Richmond 1st XI 6-d/326. Fitzroy Doncaster 1st XI 10/191 v Camberwell Magpies 1st XI 5-d/304. Frankston Peninsula 1st XI 3/233 v Kingston Hawthorn 1st XI 10/231. Essendon 1st XI 0/92 v Greenvale Kangaroos 1st XI 7-d/309.

■ Premier Seconds. Round 19. Two Day. Sats., Feb. 8 and 15. Casey South Melbourne 2nd XI 10/168 v St Kilda 2nd XI 8/ 286. Melbourne 2nd XI 10/239 v Prahran 2nd XI 10/234. Ringwood 2nd XI 4/184. Carlton 2nd XI 10/299. Northcote 2nd XI 8/153 v Melbourne University 2nd XI 10/147. Footscray 2nd XI 10/129 v Geelong 2nd XI 10/333. Richmond 2nd XI 10/125 v Dandenong 2nd XI 10/ 129 & 6/87. Camberwell Magpies 2nd XI 5/ 181 v Fitzroy Doncaster 2nd XI 7-d/304. Kingston Hawthorn 2nd XI 5/319 v Frankston Peninsula 2nd XI 9-d/317. Greenvale Kangaroos 2nd XI 10/122 & 5/213 v Essendon 2nd XI 3-d/125.

■ Premier Thirds. Round 19. Two Day. Sats., Feb. 8 and 15. St Kilda 3rd XI 8/242 v Casey South Melbourne 3rd XI 10/179. Prahran 3rd XI 10/209 v Melbourne 3rd XI 9/ 211. Carlton 3rd XI 8/224 v Ringwood 3rd XI, abandoned. Melbourne University 3rd XI 10/87 v Northcote 3rd XI 6/61. Geelong 3rd XI 4/203 v Footscray 3rd XI 10/391. Dandenong 3rd XI 10/154 v Richmond 3rd XI 10/233. Fitzroy Doncaster 3rd XI 10/193 v Camberwell Magpies 3rd XI 9/241. Frankston Peninsula 3rd XI 10/181 v Kingston Hawthorn 3rd XI 9/182. Essendon 3rd XI 10/210 v Greenvale Kangaroos 3rd XI 10/286.

■ Premier Fourths. Round 19. Two Day. Sats., Feb. 8 and 15. Casey South Melbourne 4th XI 10/143 v St Kilda 4th XI 8/ 181. Melbourne 4th XI 10/157 & 6/145 v Prahran 4th XI 10/94 & 7-d/236. Ringwood 4th XI 10/56 & 7/143 v Carlton 4th XI 9/323. Northcote 4th XI v Melbourne University 4th XI. Footscray 4th XI v Geelong 4th XI 10/307, abandoned. Kingston Hawthorn 4th XI 9-d/259 v Frankston Peninsula 4th XI 9/224. Greenvale Kangaroos 4th XI 10/144 v Essendon 4th XI 10/148 & 2/69. Sundays, February 9-16. Richmond 4th XI 5-d/325 v Dandenong 4th XI 0/1. Camberwell Magpies 4th XI 10/258 v Fitzroy Doncaster 4th XI 0/9.

Sub-District

■ North-East First XI. Two-Day. Sat.Feb. 15-Sun. Feb. 16. Saturday: Donvale 1st XI v Bayswater 1st XI 6/171 (69). Balwyn 1st XI 10/109 v Box Hill 1st XI 4/72. Coburg 1st XI v Brunswick 1st XI 8/84. Ivanhoe 1st XI 10/112 v Kew 1st XI. Mt Waverley 1st XI 8/ 207 v St Bernard's OC 1st XI. Noble Park 1st XI 6/271 v Endeavour Hills 1st XI. Strathmore 1st XI 2/29 v Croydon 1st XI 10/85. Sunday. One-Day. Preston 1st XI v Plenty Valley 1st XI.

■ North-East Second XI. Two-Day. Sat.

- Feb. 15-Sun. Feb. 16. Saturday: Bayswater 2nd XI 8/162 v Donvale 2nd XI. Box Hill 2nd XI v Balwyn 2nd XI 4/178. Kew 2nd XI 6/ 162 v Ivanhoe 2nd XI. St Bernard's OC 2nd XI 7/112 v Mt Waverley 2nd XI. Croydon 2nd XI v Strathmore 2nd XI 6/109. Sunday. One-Day. Brunswick 2nd XI v Coburg 2nd XI. Plenty Valley 2nd XI v Preston 2nd XI. Endeavour Hills 2nd XI v Noble Park 2nd XI.

■ North-West Third XI Division 1. One Day. Hoppers Crossing 3rd XI 6/201 v Kew 3rd XI 9/170. Melton 3rd XI v St Bernard's OC 3rd XI, abandoned. Werribee 3rd XI 8/172 v Brunswick 3rd XI 10/145. Preston 3rd XI v Plenty Valley 3rd XI, cancelled.

■ North-West Third XI Division 2. One Day. Ivanhoe 3rd XI v Coburg 3rd XI. Williamstown 3rd XI 3/144 v Strathmore 3rd XI 9/141. Spotswood 3rd XI 10/154 v Yarraville

3rd XI 4/154. Taylors Lakes 3rd XI 8/134 v Altona 3rd XI 10/40.

■ North-West Fourth XI Division 1. One Day. St Bernard's OC 4th XI 1/202 v Melton 4th XI 10/141. Brunswick 4th XI v Werribee 4th XI 3/31, abandoned. Plenty Valley 4th XI v Preston 4th XI, cancelled. Sunday: Kew 4th XI V Hoppers Crossing 4th XI.

■ North-West Fourth XI Division 2. One Day. Coburg 4th XI V Ivanhoe 4th XI. Strathmore 4th XI V Williamstown 4th XI 0/ 31, abandoned. Yarraville 4th XI v Spotswood 4th XI. Altona 4th XI 9/89 v Taylors Lakes 4th XI 4/88.

■ South-East Third XI Division 1. One Day. Balwyn 3rd XI 9/68 v Oakleigh 3rd XI 3/ 211. Croydon 3rd XI 8/79 v Caulfield 3rd XI 5/ 36, tie. Malvern 3rd XI 10/141 d by Mt Waverley 3rd XI 7/135. Bayswater 3rd XI 7/132 v Brighton 3rd XI 5/136.

■ South-East Third XI Division 2. One Day. Elsternwick 3rd XI 6/115 v Ormond 3rd XI 10/113. Noble Park 3rd XI Box Hill 3rd XI, cancelled. Port Melbourne 3rd XI 3/22 v Moorabbin 3rd XI, abandoned. Donvale 3rd XI 10/80 d by Endeavour Hills 3rd XI 9/269.

■ South-East Fourth XI Division 1. One Day. Oakleigh 4th XI 1/30 v Balwyn 4th XI, abandoned. Caulfield 4th XI 2/141 d Croydon 4th XI 9/143. Brighton 4th XI v Bayswater 4th XI 2/99, abandoned. Sunday: Mt Waverley 4th XI v Malvern 4th XI.

■ South-East Fourth XI Division 2. One Day. Ormond 4th XI 7/111 v Elsternwick 4th XI. Box Hill 4th XI 9/101 v Noble Park 4th XI 5/106. Moorabbin 4th XI 3/77 v Port Melbourne 4th XI, abandoned. Endeavour Hills 4th XI 8/ 184 v Donvale 4th XI 7/178.

■ South-West First XI. Two Day. Sat. Feb. 15-Sun. Feb. 16. Saturday: Melton 1st XI 5/111 v Moorabbin 1st XI. Altona 1st XI 0/22 v Taylors Lakes 1st XI 10/129/ Elsternwick 1st XI v Caulfield 1st XI 10/169. Hoppers Crossing 1st XI v Port Melbourne 1st XI 10/153. Werribee 1st XI 3/22 v Spotswood 1st XI 10/ 119. Williamstown 1st XI v Malvern 1st XI 2/ 190. Sunday: Ormond 1st XI v Yarraville 1st XI.

■ South-West Second XI. Two Day. Sat. Feb. 15-Sun. Feb. 16. Saturday: Moorabbin 2nd XI v Melton 2nd XI 8/222. Taylors Lakes 2nd XI 10/150 v Altona 2nd XI 0/ 22. Caulfield 2nd XI 3/80 v Elsternwick 2nd XI 10/65. Port Melbourne 2nd XI v Hoppers Crossing 2nd XI. Spotswood 2nd XI 0/2 v Werribee 2nd XI 10/199. Malvern 2nd XI 3/33 v Williamstown 2nd XI 10/129. Sunday: Yarraville 2nd XI v Ormond 2nd XI. Oakleigh 2nd XI v Brighton 2nd XI.

Diamond Valley

■ Barclay Shield. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 15-22. Research Eltham Collegians 1st XI 6/ 130 v Rosanna 1st XI. North Eltham Wanderers 1st XI v Macleod 1st XI 3/95. Riverside 1st XI 0/38 v Bundoora United 1st XI. Diamond Creek 1st XI 0/58 v Epping 1st XI. Bundoora 1st XI 2/26 v Heidelberg 1st XI, abandoned. ■ Money Shield. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 1522. Lower Eltham 1st XI 3/83 v Banyule 1st XI. Montmorency 1st XI 2/67 v Rosebank 1st XI. Plenty 1st XI v Lalor Stars 1st XI 0/6. Eltham 1st XI 4/178 v Lower Plenty 1st XI. Bundoora Park 1st XI v Greensborough 1st XI 8/99.

■ Mash Shield. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 1522. Rivergum 1st XI v Panton Hill 1st XI 4/83. South Morang 1st XI 8-d/212 v Thomastown 1st XI 4/90. Thomastown United 1st XI v Mill Park 1st XI 1/49. Dennis 1st XI v Hurstbridge 1st XI 3/181. Laurimar 1st XI v Mernda 1st XI 10/138.

■ B-Grade. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 15-22. Banyule 2nd XI v Riverside 2nd XI 6/112. Epping 2nd XI 10/65 v Diamond Creek 2nd XI 1/132. Heidelberg 2nd XI v Montmorency 2nd XI 9/210. Mernda 2nd XI v North Eltham Wanderers 2nd XI 5/221. Rosanna 2nd XI 7/145 v Plenty 2nd XI.

■ C-Grade. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 15-22. Greensborough 2nd XI 0/32 v Bundoora United 2nd XI. Macleod 2nd XI 1/45 v Bundoora Park 2nd XI 10/117. Riverside 3rd XI v Rivergum 2nd XI. Lalor Stars 2nd XI v Research Eltham

Collegians 2nd XI. Lower Plenty 2nd XI v Eltham 2nd XI 8/65.

■ D-Grade. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 15-22. North Eltham Wanderers 3rd XI v South Morang 2nd XI, abandoned. Rosebank 2nd XI v Bundoora 2nd XI. Laurimar 2nd XI 5/238 v Dennis 2nd XI. Hurstbridge 2nd XI 0/83 v Diamond Creek 3rd XI 10/60. Mill Park 2nd XI 0/ 5 v Montmorency 3rd XI.

■ E-Grade. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 15-22. Lower Plenty 3rd XI v Riverside 4th XI. Panton Hill 2nd XI 0/18 v Banyule 3rd XI, abandoned. Thomastown 2nd XI 9/351 v Greensborough 3rd XI. Heidelberg 3rd XI 10/302 v Thomastown United 2nd XI 4/26. Bundoora 3rd XI v Mernda 3rd XI.

■ F1-Grade. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 15-22. Banyule 4th XI 7/182 v Macleod 3rd XI. Bundoora United 3rd XI v Plenty 3rd XI. Research Eltham Collegians 3rd XI v Greensborough 4th XI 10/195. Rivergum 3rd XI 9-d/316 v Laurimar 3rd XI 0/6.

■ F2-Grade. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 15-22. Research Eltham Collegians 4th XI v Whittlesea 1st XI 6/61. Montmorency 4th XI v North Eltham Wanderers 4th XI. South Morang 3rd XI 10/ 192 v Dennis 3rd XI. Bye: Eltham 3rd XI.

■ F3-Grade. Sats. Feb. 15-22. Greensborough 5th XI v South Morang 4th XI, abandoned. Lower Plenty 4th XI 1/50 v Laurimar 4th XI. Banyule 5th XI 8/216 v Riverside 5th XI. Hurstbridge 3rd XI v Bundoora Park 3rd XI, forfeit.

■ G1 East-Grade. One-Day. Diamond Creek 4th XI v Heidelberg 4th XI 7/109, abandoned. Rosanna 3rd XI v Montmorency 5th XI 4/91, abandoned. Panton Hill 3rd XI v Lower Eltham 3rd XI 1/20, abandoned. Plenty 4th XI v Riverside 6th XI 1/32, abandoned.

■ G1 West-Grade. One-Day. Bundoora Park 4th XI 6/119 v Bundoora 4th XI 3/120. Laurimar 5th XI 4/195 v Dennis 4th XI 8/192. Rosebank 3rd XI 3/127 v Lalor Stars 3rd XI 2/ 126. Thomastown United 3rd XI 8/137 v Bundoora United 4th XI 10/107.

■ G2-Grade. One-Day. Eltham 4th XI 9/113 v Research Eltham Collegians 5th XI 9/101. North Eltham Wanderers 5th XI v Macleod 4th XI 2/107, abandoned. Diamond Creek 5th XI v Riverside 7th XI 5/110, abandoned. South Morang 5th XI 6/152 v Rivergum 4th XI 9/ 173.

■ G3-Grade. One-Day. Dennis 5th XI 1/128 v Greensborough 6th XI 6/129. Montmorency 6th XI 3/173 v Thomastown 3rd XI, abandoned. Lower Plenty 5th XI v South Morang 6th XI 0/ 58, abandoned. Eltham 5th XI 10/122 v Thomastown United 4th XI 7/125. Mernda 4th XI 7/112 v Diamond Creek 6th XI 9/174. Whittlesea 2nd XI v North Eltham Wanderers 6th XI. Bye: Hurstbridge 4th XI.

Eastern

■ Dunstan Shield. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 8-15. Glen Iris 1st XI 5/184 v Edinburgh 1st XI 10/180. North Balwyn Bulls 1st XI 10/172 v Old Carey 1st XI 10/122. Mont Albert 1st XI 5-d/296 v Bulleen 1st XI 10/97. East Doncaster 1st XI 10/83 v Canterbury 1st XI 10/151 & 6/ 57.

■ Wright Shield. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 815. Heathmont 1st XI 1/138 v Marcellin OC 1st XI 10/118. Richmond City 1st XI 2/175 v Mulgrave 1st XI 10/174. Mazenod OCCC 1st XI 9/207 v Ashburton Willows 1st XI 10/213. East Malvern Tooronga 1st XI 7/218 v Deepdene Bears 1st XI 10/217.

■ A Turf. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 8-15. Surrey Hills 1st XI 10/101 v Boronia Hawks 1st XI 3/216. Ashwood 1st XI 10/123 v Hawthorn Boroondara 1st XI 10/177. Deepdene Bears 2nd XI 10/173. Mont Albert 2nd XI 10/177. Old Carey 2nd XI 10/186 v Burwood 1st XI 10/ 224.

■ B Turf. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 8-15. Canterbury 2nd XI 10/142 v North Balwyn Bulls 2nd XI 10/130. SKOBs 1st XI 5/122 v Heathmont 2nd XI 9/208. Balwyn Saints & Blasters Senior Men 1st XI 10/274 v East Doncaster 2nd XI 10/ 300. Richmond Union 1st XI 7/249 v Glen Iris 2nd XI 9/172. ■ C Turf. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 8-15.

Marcellin OC 2nd XI v East Malvern Tooronga 2nd XI 10/202, abandoned. Mulgrave 2nd XI 8/306 v Bulleen 2nd XI 5/213./ Burwood 2nd XI 10/139 & 4/121 v La Trobe University 1st XI 8-d/285. Boronia Hawks 2nd XI 6/205 v Hawthorn Boroondara 2nd XI. ■ D Turf. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 8-15. Surrey Hills 2nd XI 10/133 v Ashwood 2nd XI 10/ 225. Ashburton Willows 2nd XI 10/241 v Edinburgh 2nd XI 10/270. Old Carey 3rd XI 10/ 189 v Mazenod OCCC 2nd XI 10/175. Richmond City 2nd XI 4/97 v East Malvern Tooronga 3rd XI 10/113. n E Turf. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 8-15. Balwyn Saints & Blasters Senior Men 2nd XI 9/ 196 v Marcellin OC 3rd XI 8/195. Hawthorn Boroondara 3rd XI 10/216 v Mont Albert 3rd XI 10/188. Deepdene Bears 3rd XI 4/129 v SKOBs 2nd XI 10/126. Edinburgh 3rd XI 0/28 v Heathmont 3rd XI 10/131.

n F Turf. One-Day. Bulleen 3rd XI 3/67 v La Trobe University 3rd XI 10/64. Heathmont 4th XI 9/192 v Richmond City 3rd XI 6/107, abandoned. Deepdene Bears 4th XI 6/93 v Richmond Union 2nd XI 7/230. East Malvern Tooronga 4th XI v Surrey Hills 4th XI, abandoned. Mont Albert 4th XI v Hawthorn Boroondara 4th XI.

■ Jim MacGibbon Shield. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 8-15. St. Pauls Oakleigh Districts 1st XI 10/158 v STC South Camberwell Senior Men1st XI 10/232. Holy Trinity 1st XI 10/208 v Deepdene Uniting 1st XI 3/210. Glen Waverley 1st XI 10/139 v Clifton Hill 1st XI 10/203. Burwood Unt. Canterbury Senior Men 1st XI 8/ 276 v Trinity Willison CC 1st XI 10/195.

■ Kevin Burt Shield. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 8-15. STC South Camberwell Senior Men2nd XI 9/74 & 10/90 v West Ivanhoe United 1st XI 8-d/265. Toorak-Prahran 1st XI 1-d/91 & 3/95 v Holy Trinity 2nd XI 10/85 & 9/99. Clifton Hill 2nd XI 2/6 v Mount Waverley Catholics 1st XI 8-d/369. Trinity Willison CC 2nd XI 5/356 v Burwood Unt. Canterbury Senior Men 2nd XI 10/89.

■ John Menzies and Keith Mackay Shield. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 8-15. North Alphington 9/110 v Glen Waverley 2nd XI 10/ 155. Holy Trinity 3rd XI 10/190 v ToorakPrahran 2nd XI 10/274. Blackburn North United 1st XI 0/55 v Trinity Willison CC 3rd XI 8/209. ■ A Synthetic. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 815. Clifton Hill 3rd XI 9/229 v Mount Waverley Uniting 1st XI 10/144. Mulgrave 3rd XI 7-d/ 251 v Holy Trinity 4th XI 10/171. West Ivanhoe United 2nd XI 10/181 v Burwood 3rd XI 10/ 119 & 3/67.

■ B Synthetic. Two-Day. Sats. Feb. 815. Trinity Willison CC 4th XI 9/255 v Glen Waverley 3rd XI 3/257. Toorak-Prahran 3rd XI 8/154 v Edinburgh 4th XI 4/157. St. Pauls Oakleigh Districts 2nd XI 8/253 v Mazenod OCCC 3rd XI 10/196.

■ LOC1. One-Day. Northcote United 1st XI v Hartley 1st XI, Forfeit. Deepdene Uniting 2nd XI 3/161 v Knox Churches 1st XI 9/160. Malvern Valley 1st XI 3/62 v Eagles 1st XI 10/229, abamdoned. Bye: Manningham 1st XI. ■ LOC2. One-Day. AYC Harlequins 1st XI 8/ 167 v Glen Iris 3rd XI 10/123. Balwyn Saints 3rd XI 5/176 v East Doncaster 4th XI 9/174. Eagles 4th XI 5/174 v Mulgrave 4th XI 6/173. Eagles 2nd XI 10/171 v Monash University 1st XI 4/88.

■ LOC3. One-Day. East Doncaster 5th XI 3/ 163 v St Stephens Greythorn 1st XI 10/162. Salesian 1st XI 3/187 v North Balwyn 3rd XI 9/ 188. Burwood United Canterbury 3rd XI v Manningham 2nd XI. Melbourne Sixers 1st X1 5/125 v Eagles 3rd XI 10/124.

■ LOC4. One-Day. Salvation Army Waverley 1st XI 6/171 v Ashwood 3rd XI 7/170. Burwood 4th XI 4/192 v STC South Camberwell 3rd XI 6/187. North Balwyn 4th XI 6/149 v AYC Harlequins 2nd XI 5/147. Mount Waverley Catholics 2nd XI v Malvern Valley 2nd XI. Mulgrave 5th XI 10/152 v St. Pauls Oakleigh Districts 3rd XI 3/249. ■ LOC5. One-Day. Glen Iris 4th X1 6/143 v Toorak-Prahran 4th XI 5/140. Mount Waverley Uniting 2nd XI 6/259 v Hawthorn Boroondara 5th XI 3/151. St Andrews Gardiner 1st XI 8/ 213 v Clifton Hill 4th XI 8/199. Northcote United 2nd XI 5/283 v Blackburn North United 2nd XI 8/167. Heathmont 5th XI 10/115 v Deepdene Uniting 3rd XI 5/118.

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WEATHER-AFFECTED SCOREBOARD

■ LOC6. One-Day. Manningham 3rd XI V Abbotsford Anglers 1st XI. Ashburton Willows 3rd XI 8/107 V Glen Waverley 4th XI 1/108. STC South Camberwell 4th XI V Ashwood 4th XI, abandoned. Burwood Unt. Canterbury 4th XI 10/152 v Salesian 2nd XI 4/153. Mount Waverley Uniting 3rd XI 7/156 v Knox Churches 2nd XI 10/152.

■ LOC7. One-Day. Richmond Union 3rd XI 1/48 v Mont Albert 5th XI 10/47. STC South Camberwell 5th XI Saturday Synthetic 9/111 v Mount Waverley Catholics 3rd XI 2/116. Hawthorn Boroondara 6th XI 9/197 v Bulleen 4th XI 9/143. Edinburgh 5th XI v East Doncaster 6th XI 2/48, abandoned. Bye: Glen Waverley 5th XI - Sunday.

■ LOC8. One-Day. Monash University 2nd XI 9/125 v Ashburton Willows 4th XI 9/127. Ashwood 5th XI 5/168 v Heathmont 6th XI 8/ 166. Mazenod OCCC 4th XI 10/116 v Glen Waverley 6th XI - Sunday 3/117. STC South Camberwell - 4th XI Saturday Synthetic 8/192 v Malvern Valley CC 3rd XI 5/206. Bye: Burwood Unt. Canterbury 5th XI

■ LOC9. One-Day. East Doncaster 7th XI 0/ 124 v West Ivanhoe United 3rd XI 7/123. Richmond City 4th XI 4/136 v Monash University 3rd XI 6/135. Holy Trinity 5th XI v Richmond Union 4th XI 3/113. Edinburgh 6th XI 5/164 v Burnley CYMS 3rd XI 6/162. Balwyn Saints 4th XI 5/150 v Clifton Hill 5th XI 9/143.

Morn. Peninsula

■ Provincial Firsts. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 15-22. Langwarrin 1sts 7/221 v Baden Powell 1sts. Pines 1sts 8/161 v Red Hill 1sts. Sorrento 1sts v Dromana 1sts. Old Peninsula 1st XI 7/ 201 v Heatherhill 1sts.

■ Peninsula Firsts. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 15-22. Seaford Tigers 1sts 10/60 & 0/21 v Mt Eliza Senior Men 1st X1 1-d/87. Rosebud Senior Men 1sts v Seaford 1sts 10/153. Somerville Senior Men 1sts v Moorooduc 1sts 10/244. Long Island 1sts 10/130 v Mornington 1sts 0/3.

■ District Firsts. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 15-22. Carrum 1sts v Carrum Downs 1sts 6/ 234. Flinders 1sts 10/123 v Balnarring 1sts. Baxter 1sts 5/249 v Boneo 1sts. Crib Point 1sts 10/135 v Main Ridge 1sts 4/57.

■ Provincial Seconds. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 15-22. Baden Powell 2nds 10/169 v Langwarrin 2nds. Red Hill 2nds v Pines 2nds. Dromana 2nds v Sorrento 2nds 8/229. Heatherhill 2nds v Old Peninsula 2nd XI. ■ Peninsula Seconds. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 15-22. Mt Eliza Senior Men 2nd X1 0/ 22 v Seaford Tigers 2nds 10/148. Seaford 2nds 10/151 v Rosebud Senior Men 2nds 0/27. Moorooduc 2nds 3/15 v Somerville Senior Men 2nds 8-d/265. Mornington 2nds v Long Island 2nds 10/204.

■ District Seconds. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 15-22. Carrum Downs 2nds 10/188 v Carrum 2nds. Balnarring 2nds v Flinders 2nds. Boneo 2nds v Baxter 2nds. Main Ridge 2nds v Crib Point 2nds.

■ Sub-District Seconds. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 15-22. Frankston YCW 2nds 10/199 v Ballam Park 2nds 0/3. Skye 2nds 8/64 & 1/12 v Delacombe Park 2nds 5-d/220. Rye 2nds 10/64 v Mt Martha 2nds 7/143. Tyabb 2nds v Tootgarook 2nds.

North Metro

■ Jika Shield. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 815. Camrea CC 1st XI 9-d/280 v Donath CC 1st XI 10/89. Keon Park CC 1st XI 10/222 v Preston Baseballers CC 1st XI 10/71. Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 1st XI 8-d/240 v Reservoir Cobras CC 1st XI 10/167.

■ Jack Quick Shield. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. Bellfield Bulls CC 1st XI 10/121 v Cameron CC 1st XI 10/136. Fairfield CC 1st XI 9/102 v Fiji Victorian CC 1st XI 10/248. Strathewen Cougars CC 1st XI 9/74 & 1/70 v Olympic Colts CC 1st XI 7-d/252. ■ Jack Kelly Shield. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. Northern Socials CC 1st XI 7-d/359 v Ivanhoe Mavericks CC 1st XI 10/70 & 10/24. West Preston CC 1st XI 8/199 v Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 2nd XI 10/199. Fiji Victorian

CC 2nd XI 1/33 v Keon Park CC 2nd XI 10/ 177.

■ B-Grade. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. Victorian Nepalese CA CC 10/182 v West Preston CC 2nd XI 10/116. Preston YCW District CC 1st XI 1-d/111 v Camrea CC 2nd XI 9/ 37 & 8/64. Preston Baseballers CC 2nd XI 7-d/ 272 v Bellfield Bulls CC 2nd XI 9/37 & 10/ 102. Royal Park Reds 3rd XI v Strathewen Cougars CC 2nd XI.

■ C-Grade. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. Donath CC 2nd XI 7-d/244 v Fairfield CC 2nd XI 4/198, abandoned. Reservoir Cobras CC 2nd XI 8/214 v Bellfield Bulls CC 3rd XI 10/189. Fiji Victorian CC 3rd XI 8-d/256 v Royal Park Reds 4th XI 10/70. Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 3rd XI 9/246 v West Preston CC 3rd XI 10/ 157.

■ Robert Young DODC. One-Day. Cameron CC OD v Northern Socials CC OD 4/ 108, abandoned. Olympic Colts CC OD 4/125 v Fiji Victorian CC OD, abandoned. Preston Baseballers CC OD 5/104 v Kinglake CC OD 4/ 105. Bellfield Rocketz CC OD 9/168 v Preston YCW District CC OD 3/167. Keon Park CC OD 3/122 v Camrea CC OD, abandoned.

Ringwood District

■ Lindsay Trollope Shield. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. Norwood 1XI 3/216 v Ainslie Park 1XI 7/215. Lilydale 1XI 10/309 v South Croydon 1XI 5/310. Montrose 1XI 10/ 193 v North Ringwood 1XI 7/286. Croydon Ranges 1XI 10/191 v Kilsyth 1XI 10/95.

■ Bill Wilkins Cup. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. Wonga Park 1XI 8/254 v Bayswater Park 1XI 10/125. St Andrews 1XI 10/150 v Heatherdale 1XI 10/65. Wantirna South 1XI 1-d/95 v Mooroolbark 1XI 10/83 & 6/173. Templeton 1XI 10/87 & 10/78 v Warranwood 1XI 6-d/102 & 2/65. Vermont 1XI 9/292 v East Ringwood 1XI 9/295.

■ Stuart Newey Plate. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. Croydon North 1XI 4/319 v Montrose 2XI 10/180. Mt Evelyn 1XI 10/259 v Seville Burras 1XI 10/181. Warrandyte 1st XI 10/280 v Heathwood 1XI 10/116. Chirnside Park 1XI 10/281 v South Warrandyte 1XI 7/ 282.

■ Steve Pascoe Shield. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. South Croydon 2XI 10/113 & 2/ 133 v Warrandyte 2nd XI 7-d/224. Ainslie Park 2XI 10/181 v Norwood 2XI 10/207. Kilsyth 2XI 10/263 v Croydon Ranges 2XI 10/183. North Ringwood 2XI 10/239 v Yarra Junction 1XI 7/ 240.

■ Pat Meehan Shield. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. Lusatia Park 1XI 9/197 v Lilydale 2XI 8/229. East Ringwood 2XI 6/195 v Wonga Park 2XI 10/194. Healesville 1XI 6/173 v Templeton 2XI 10/171. Eastfield 1XI 7-d/227 v Wantirna South 2XI 10/172 & 4/51.

■ Ian Spencer Shield. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. Warranwood 2XI 10/147 v Montrose 3XI 10/214. Coldstream 1XI 10/120 v Vermont 2XI 1/121. Mooroolbark 2XI 10/ 192 v Chirnside Park 2XI 8/193. South Warrandyte 2XI 10/229 v North Ringwood 3XI 6/185. Heatherdale 2XI 5/111 v St Andrews 2XI 10/109. ■ David Beatty Shield. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15.Heathwood 2XI 4-d/96 v Croydon Ranges 3XI 10/83 & 1/66. Seville Burras 2XI v Mt Evelyn 2XI 9/241. Yarra Glen 1XI 0/16 v East Ringwood 3XI 10/168. Bayswater Park 2XI 8/113 v Norwood 3XI 10/111.

■ Don Smith Shield. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. Ainslie Park 3XI 8/351 v St Andrews 3XI 2/71. Wonga Park 3XI 10/104 v Wandin 1XI 10/183. Warrandyte 3rd XI 10/194 v Warranwood 3XI 10/279. Montrose 4XI 10/206 v Hoddles Creek 1XI 8/207. ■ John Springett Shield. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. Chirnside Park 3XI 10/185 v Kilsyth 3XI 10/218. Wantirna South 3XI 10/ 256 v Lusatia Park 2XI 5-d/345. Yarra Junction 2XI 10/235 v Eastfield 2XI 10/67 & 5/71. Lilydale 3XI 10/171 v Healesville 2XI 4/175.

■ A-Grade. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. Norwood 4XI 10/185 v Croydon North 2XI 8/ 287. Powelltown 1XI 10/60 v Wonga Park 4XI 10/120 & 1/68. St Andrews 4XI 10/182 v Templeton 3XI 5/183. South Croydon 3XI 2/

197 v Seville Burras 3XI 7/110. ■ B-Grade. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. Heatherdale 3XI 7/166 v Coldstream 2XI 4/ 166. Croydon Ranges 4XI 10/208 v Heathwood 3XI 10/223. Mooroolbark 3XI 3-d/236 v South Warrandyte 3XI 9/119. Mt Evelyn 3XI 7-d/375 v Warrandyte 4th XI 10/281. ■ C-Grade. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. North Ringwood 4XI 5/321 v Healesville 3XI 7d/222. Kilsyth 4XI 9/260 v Chirnside Park 4XI 8/276. Warrandyte 5th XI 5-d/325 v Wantirna 1XI 10/118. Warranwood 4XI 10/246 v St Andrews 5XI 7/261.

■ D-Grade. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. Norwood 5XI 6/259 v Wonga Park 5XI 10/93. Yarra Junction 3XI 10/191 v Heatherdale 4XI 5/195. Croydon Ranges 5XI 10/275 v Lilydale 4XI 10/131. East Ringwood 4XI 7/117 v Mooroolbark 4XI 4/133.l

■ E-Grade. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 8-15. Wandin 2XI 9/163 v Boronia Hawks 4XI 6/166. Wonga Park 6XI 2/216 v Warrandyte 6th XI 4/ 176, abandoned. St Andrews 6XI 9/364 v Yarra Glen 2XI 10/170.

■ F-Grade. One Day. Vermont 3XI v Bayswater Park 3XI 1/26. Mt Evelyn 4XI v South Croydon 4XI. Bye: Ainslie Park 4XI. Wantirna South 4XI 10/138 v Montrose 5XI 3/139.

■ G-Grade. One Day. Templeton 4XI 8/139 v Chirnside Park 5XI 5/140. Montrose 6XI 0/ 121 v Heathwood 4XI 7/120. Hoddles Creek 2XI v Kilsyth 5XI, abandoned. Seville 4XI v Mt Evelyn 5XI.

■ H-Grade. One Day. Mt Evelyn 6XI 10/123 v Lusatia Park 3XI 2/124. Healesville 4XI 7/ 173 v Warranwood 5XI 3/131. Heatherdale 5XI 9/160 v North Ringwood 5XI 6/162. Norwood 6XI 5/131 v Mooroolbark 5XI, abandoned.

■ I-Grade. One Day. Warrandyte 7th XI 3/ 198 v Croydon Ranges 6XI 4/200. Bye: Eastfield 3XI. St Andrews 7XI 4/180 v Croydon North 3XI 0/183. Wantirna 2XI 3/114 v Warranwood 6XI 3/110.

■ J-Grade. One Day. South Croydon 5XI 10/ 44 v St Andrews 8XI 2/66. Warranwood 7XI 3/ 155 v Wantirna 3XI 10/140. Ainslie Park 5XI 6/202 v Wonga Park 7XI 5/197. Bye: Bayswater Park 4XI

■ K-Grade. One Day. Croydon North 4XI 10/ 250 v Yarra Junction 4XI 6/240. Wandin 3XI 7/225 v Yarra Glen 3XI 10/128. Chirnside Park 6XI 5/135 v Powelltown 2XI 10/200.

■ L-Grade. One Day. East Ringwood 5XI v Healesville 5th XI. Vermont 4XI 10/153 v Yarra Junction 5X1 7/174. Bye: Lusatia Park 4th XI

South East

■ Longmuir Shield. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 15-22. CHAG 1 v Bentleigh ANA 1 1/38. Brighton Union 1 v West Bentleigh 1 0/83. Bentleigh Uniting 1 10/182 v East Sandringham 1 0/16. Le Page Park 1 4/118 v Kingston Heath 1 10/69.

■ Woolnough Shield. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 15-22. Elwood 1 0/4 v Mackie 1 10/ 238. Omega 1 2/32 v Washington Park 1 10/ 158. Cheltenham Park 1 v Hampton Central 1. Cluden 1 v Hampton United 1, abandoned. ■ Quiney Shield. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 15-22. Carnegie South 1 v Elwood 2 10/131. Washington Park 2 v Omega 2 2/68. CUCC Kings 3 10/141 v Bentleigh Uniting 2 6/74. Kingston Heath 2 10/121 v Le Page Park 2 2/ 20.

■ Pullen Shield. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 1522. Mackie 2 v Highett West 1 7/240. West Bentleigh 2 10/77 v Brighton Union 2 8/203. East Sandringham 2 1/319 v Cheltenham Park 2 9/63. Hampton United 2 3-d/86 v Melbourne Wanderers 1 10/84 & 0/9.

Western Suburbs

■ A-Grade. Two-Day. Sats., Feb. 15-22. Werribee CC A 6th XI v Wyndham Vale A Grade 3rd XI. Point Cook CC A Grade 5th XI Forfeit v Altona Sports A 1st XI - Two Day. Seabrook A Grade 3rd XI 5/246 v Western Utd SC A Grade 2nd XI.

■ Division 1. One Day. West Point Titans D01 1st XI 10/175 v Truganina Strikers D01 Yellow 9/176. Tarneit Central D01 Blue 8/218 v Utd Tarneit SC D01 1st XI 7/115. 5ABI Caroline Springs D01 10/123 v Manor Lakes D01 1st XI 9/164. Truganina CC D01 v Williams Landing SC D01 1st XI 0/59, abandoned.

ARIES: (March 21- April 20)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 8,9,5,6

Lotto Numbers: 8,12,23,34,35,41, The Planets align in your favour, bringing promising news from a far-off land. Prepare to receive messages from individuals you haven't had contact with within a considerable time. Additionally, be open to the possibil- ity of a transformation in a current relationship that may profoundly impact your life.

TAURUS: (April 21- May 20)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 8,9,3,4, Lotto Numbers: 8,12,25,41,22,1, You are in an auspicious period where your deepest aspi- rations may finally come to fruition. Additionally, ex- pect notable improvements in your health and well-be- ing, which should be a cause for celebration.

GEMINI: (May 21- June 21)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 9,3,4,5, Lotto Numbers: 1,7,23,25,41,33, As you navigate familial relationships, you may encoun- ter some resistance in communicating your intentions. It may require assertiveness and persistence, but it's es- sential to avoid getting into arguments.

CANCER: (June 22- July 22)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 8,2,4,3, Lotto Numbers: 1,15,23,28,37,5, You may have been considering relocation or travel, and this decision might shock someone you never imagined. If you're lucky and want to take a chance, partnering up with an Aries, known for their risktaking and adventur- ous spirit may be worth it.

LEO: (July 23- August 22)

Lucky Colour: orange

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 8,2,3,4

Lotto Numbers: 7,2,35,41,21,11, This period will bring numerous opportunities to catch up with overseas friends and relatives. You may even plan a reunion or a trip to meet them in person. Your presence will be highly sought, and the social scene will be charming.

VIRGO: (August 23- September 23)

Lucky Colour: Violet

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 9,2,4,8, Lotto Numbers: 7,13,34,41,22,28, The world around you is bustling with activity, and a particular person has caught your attention amidst it all. They have the potential to bring profound transforma- tion to your life. However, it's crucial not to allow any- one to coerce or persuade you into uncertain business ventures.

LIBRA: (September 24- October 23)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 9,2,3,5

Lotto Numbers: 6,13,36,45,51,22, There seems to be a general disagreement among indi- viduals, and if left unaddressed, these differences may intensify. Being transparent about your expectations is crucial to openly communicating them to others.

SCORPIO: (October 24- November 22)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 7,3,4,5, Lotto Numbers: 1,16,23,28,34,41, It is not wise to rely solely on luck or trust anyone com- pletely. Even if you have been fortunate, being cautious of potential obstacles is essential. Additionally, if you are lucky enough to accumulate significant wealth, it is advisable to keep it private and not share it with others.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23- December 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 3,5,4,2

Lotto Numbers: 1,14,12,27,34,45, Exciting transformations are taking place in your work and home life, poised to bring you great benefits. You can look forward to receiving the rewards of your past kindnesses, as people from your past will likely return the favour unexpectedly.

CAPRICORN: (December 21- January 19)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 8,3,4,5, Lotto Numbers: 1,14,12,23,35,41, It is essential to address any issues that arise promptly without postponing them. Avoid putting tasks on hold and deal with them promptly. Additionally, it is possible to experience financial success through intuition or a hunch.

AQUARIUS: (January 20- February 19)

Lucky Colour: Apricot

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 7,3,4,5, Lotto Numbers: 1,14,12,25,34,41, You can look forward to increased stability and security in the long term, with greater ease in managing your finances. This will allow you to handle any chal- lenges confidently, knowing you are in a strong position to overcome them.

PISCES: (February 20- March 20)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 8,3,4,5

Lotto Numbers: 1,14,23,35,45,5

Striving to satisfy everyone around you can be exhaust- ing and futile. Therefore, it's crucial to focus on your well-being and prioritise your happiness. In addition, it's essential to watch for people who tend to engage in arguments frequently and avoid getting caught in the crossfire.

with Kerry Kulkens

Presented by Sarah Kulkens, Australia’s Trusted Psychic Family

Verry Elleegant Stakes over 1600 metres

■ The stars will be out and about come March 1 when some of Australia’s best gallopers will hopefully contest the VerryElleegant Stakes over 1600 metres at Randwick

The early money has come for the Hawkes trained smart horse Ceolwulf, who has been racing well.

He really showed them what it was all about in winning the King Charles III Stakes at Randwick back on October 19.

However, most of the field going around the event here are possibly needing the run, prior to the big day.

Most of these would be well rehearsed here for the big day.

The event, the VerryElleegant, is named after the champion mare, who unfortunately passed away while giving birth overseas.

The early favourite, Ceolwulf, is by the champion New Zealand entire, Tavistock, has won four races with five placings generally in top company.

Right on his heels is the classy mare, Via Sistina, the former international who is prepared by top trainer Chris Waller

You only had to have a look at the way she won the Cox Plate to show you how good she is.

She then doubled up winning the Champions Stakes over 2000 at Flemington on Oaks Day

That made it thee out of five of her previous outings all in Group One Class.

She is all class and is the one to beat if she goes around.

Next, we have another class mare in Fan Girl, who could hold her own in any company.

In her past outings she has competed against the very best and either won or ran a place for trainer Chris Waller.

Then we have the former international, Buckeroo, who ran a cracker race in finishing a good second to Duke of Sessa in the Caulfield Cup over 2400 metres.

In the Melbourne Cup he drew 21 in a field of 23 runners and his rider Joe Moreira tried his best to get over from the wide draw, but luck was against him.

He is pretty smart on his day, but I feel the distance here of 1600 metres won’t favour him.

The interesting runner if he goes around will be Alligator Blood, who was found to have had a blood problem and was retired.

At that stage he was with Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott.

But the owners thought they might have a change of tactics and transferred him over to Chris Waller in a surprise move.

The top Western Australian mare, Amelia’s Jewel, is top notch on her day, but hasn’t been racing as good as she can.

I am going back to Caulfield a while back when she got a bit flustered in the mounting yard before her race.

I feel that was caused by the loud music outside the mounting yard that could have upset her, it’s only a thought.

On her day she is one of the best in the business, and you can’t dismiss her.

An interesting runner if it goes around is the former international, Royal Patronage, in the care if Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, who looked smart winning the Tramway Stakes in Sydney last year.

Then you have the Les Bridge trained horse

Ted Ryan

Celestial Legend, who was one of the main fancies in the last Doncaster and proved too good. On his day he can match it with the best, and a big chance if he goes around.

Next is the smart horse in Tom Kitten, who ran a good third over 1500 metres in the coveted Golden Eagle, not far from the winner and the runner-up, Lake Forest and Lazzat

Prepared by James Cummings the distance here will suit him, and he is a good way chance. Another that I feel will run well here is the top Victorian, Another Will, prepared by leading trainer, Ciaron Maher

His run in the last Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes, was a ripper when a good second behind the top horse, Kimochi, from Sydney.

I like Via Sistina and Ceolwulf, who both handle the Randwick track well.

Showing the way

■ Yulong has reached the top on quick time thanks to some of the men involved.

All under the watch of Australasian industry figure, Sam Fairgay.

Vin Cox had began his career as a Bloodstock Consultant with Inglis, and who was in-

strumental in guiding Magic Millions for the majority of the last decade before he moved to the Godolphin Group joining in 2023 as General Manager.

One little-known Chinese coal mining magnate, Mr Zhang Yuesheng, was experiencing Australian racing for the first time.

As the Global Thoroughbred Industry would become accustomed to the following decade, Mr Zhang and his vast Yulong Breeding and his racing operation were going hard.

Videos were analysed, experts canvassed, and phone calls made with the assistance of Inglis’s Managing Director, Mark Webster.

He first attendedthe following year’s Inglis Yearling Sales in Sydney, where he bought a number of yearlings up to $ 65,000, a relatively sum considering what has transpired since.

As has been well-documented in the years after his first Australian Yearling Sale involvement he has aquired some of the best bloodstock available around the eorld.

There is a Broodmareband of at least 600 of the mares.

After such a sustained growth period, with Zhang possessing as eight-horse stallion roster that includes champion Written Tycoon.

Also, he has picked up rising young sires, Alabama Express, a graduate of the Inglis Easter Yearling Sale.

Then, the former top horse, Pierata, where next to shine for Yulong.

On top of all this they have a handy ‘Neddy’ in Via Sistina

The winner of the Cox Plate in great fashion. - Ted Ryan

Via Sistina.Racing Photos.

HOT CONDITIONS AT SHEPPARTON

■ Shepparton’s regular Tuesday night fixture was held on February 11 which attracted only seven races in very hot conditions and Oakleigh South based trainer Alan Ratnashingham who loves his harness racing was successful with 7Y0 rock N Roll Heaven-Breenys Lady gelding Illawong Danny in the Darryn Rowney Pace over 1690 metres.

Having start number 96, Illawong Danny driven by Ellen Tormey possied three back in the running line from gate two on the second line as Sophies Scooter flew away from gate four to lead.

Going forward three wide solo in the last lap, Illawong Danny outstayed his rivals to record a strong neck margin over Harley Blue four pegs from inside the second line – three wide double trail last lap, with Sophies Scooter after kicking away prior to the home turn running out of puff halfway up the straight holding third 1.2 metres away. The mile rate 1-56.2.

■ Mount Cottrell trainer Jeremy Quinlan combined with Bunbartha’s Matt Newberry to land the Ben Gledhill Pace over 1690 metres with 8Y0 Shadow Play-Riverside Oaked gelding Our Cheeky Devil who loves racing at Shepparton.

Settling three back in the moving line from gate five as polemarker Mussel Shoals led before handing over to Madam Reactor (gate three), Our Cheeky Devil gained a lovely three wide trail home in the last lap on the back of Momentum Shift (one/one from the extreme draw – three wide last lap) to blouse him by 3.7 metres in a rate of 1-56.5. Art Of Fire (four pegs – wide last lap) was third a nose away.

■ Torrumbarry part-owner/ trainer Faye McEwan always turns her horses out looking an absolute picture and honest 7Y0 SkyvalleyMisty Elle gelding Watch And Act appreciated a drop back in grade when winning the 2190 metre Isabel Walsh Trotters Handicap. With Chris Alford in the sulky, Watch And Act settled three back along the markers from 10 metres after Yankee Lover (10m) began fast to head off polemarker Tedesco.

Angling to be one/one in the last lap, Watch And Act after moving three wide on the final bend finished best to prevail by 2.2 metres from a gutsy Antonov (10m) which raced exposed for most of the trip. Tedesco was third a nose away after flashing late. The mile rate 2-03.4.

■ Byrnside duo Laura and Damian Wilson snared a double on the night with 3Y0 Lather Up-Chiquita Bromac gelding Calexico taking the 1690 metre David Moran Pace and 8Y0 Danny Bouchea-No Dispute mare Settle The Bill the Trevor Muir Farrier Trotters Mobile over 1690 metres.

Calexico despite racing uncovered from outside the front line outstayed his rivals to defeat the poleline pacemaker On The Hunt by 1.6 metres which had every opportunity, with Good Tobe Locksley (one/one – three wide home turn) third 7.3 metres back third. The mile rate 155.1.

Settle The Bill (one/two from outside the front line) after going four wide on the final bend bloused the leader Montana Muscle who had it easy going down by 2.1 metres in 2-00.5. In form mare Abbie (one/one – three wide home turn from gate four) was third a head away.

At Maryborough

■ Maryborough held the first of two meetings for the week on Wednesday prior to the Need For Speed fixture on Friday and on an interesting day’s racing the first two year old event of the season went to Haddon part-owner/trainer Damian Burns’ Warrawee Needy-Princess Dilinger colt Maxo Mighty.

Driven by Damien, Maxo Mighty in a disappointing field of four enjoyed a cosy passage on the back of the poleline leader Soho Washington until the home turn and after coming away from the markers, raced away to score by 14.8 metres untouched. Soho Washington easily held third 41.8 metres away. The mile rate 1-55.7. ■ Sutton Grange trainer/driver Ross Graham is rarely seen in the cart these days using professionals James Herbertson and Chris Alford mainly, however Ross elected to drive 5Y0 Used To Me-Sister Of Sonoko gelding Against The Bridle bred and raced by twin brother Leigh to victory in the Peter Egan Bi-Rite Electrical Trot-

Harness Racing

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker

Comment

■ Harness Racing Victoria would have been completely demoralised by the disgraceful performance of Sky Channel’s coverage of Terang with most races shafted to Sky 2 and on many occasions being shown on a split screen with Newcastle taking the audio while Queensland gallops on Sky 1 continued to be running late.

Even the Terang Cup had to contend with this. This is another reason why the Victorian product is down on wagering. As mentioned before: lift your game Sky.

ters Mobile over 2190 metres. Trapped three wide from outside the front line, Against The Bridle went forward to park outside the pacemaker Jessicas Story which led from gate five before applying pressure prior to the bell to lead for the final lap and winning easily by 10.5 metres in a rate of 2-01.2 from Jessicas Story which ran her usual honest race.

Champagnes (one/two – three wide last lap) switched to the sprint lane on turning for third 16.5 metres away.

■ Moyreisk’s Ainsworth family enjoyed a profitable day winning a double on the program –8Y0 Peak-Drop Us A Line mare Baarlinee taking the 1690 metre Aldebaran Park Trotters Mobile and 8Y0 Bgs Folly-Farnsworth mare My Darling Dancer the Redpath Tyre and Battery Service Pace over the same distance both driven by Ashley.

Baarlinee trained by father Barry for wife Katrina exploded away from gate six to run her rivals ragged, defeating Majestic Ga Ga which had moved to be one/one from gate four on the second line and chased hard on turning to go down by 7.3 metres in 1-58.1.

Charlie Walker after trailing the winner did all the chasing in the last lap to finish third a neck away.

My Darling Dancer raced by Ashley followed the poleline leader El Awoman from inside the second line before being pushed back a spot when Celestial Daybreak came with a rush from mid-field to lead at the bell.

Getting clear in plenty of time to move outside Celestial Daybreak on the home turn, My Darling Dancer did best to register a head margin over Celestial Daybreak which defied his age returning a mile rate of 1-56.4. Muriel (three wide last lap from mid-field) was third 2.1 metres away.

9 events at K’more

■ Kilmore was Thursday’s fixture with a nine event card highlighted by 85-year-old Whittlesea octogenarian co-owner/trainer Charlie Farrugia and grandson driver Darren Zahra’s 5Y0 home bred and raced 6Y0 Lincoln Royal-Mind Dancer gelding Royal Edard in the 1690 metre Carlton and United Breweries Pace.

Enjoying a sweet passage from gate four trailing Pinnacle Hope which led from outside the front line, Royal Edard after angling away from the markers on turning was too strong over the concluding stages for the pacemaker, scoring by 1.7 metres in a mile rate of 1-58.6.

Home And Dry (one/two) was third 4.3 metres back. It was Royal Edard’s first success since winning at Gunbower in December 2023.

■ Sutton Grange breeder/owner/trainer Clive Henderson’s 5Y0 Sportswriter-Dance Of Fire gelding Edwarde Grange chalked up his seventh success at start 42 when greeting the judge in the C & M Build Group Pace over 1690 metres.

Driven by ‘ace’ reinsman James Herbertson, Edwarde Grange (gate three) possied behind the leader Cheerstolou which burnt across the face of the field from gate five before being relegated to three pegs after My Way in the open from gate two assumed control.

Moving to be one/one approaching the home turn, Edwarde Grange finished his race off well after angling wide in the straight to record a 2.5 metre margin over Nakula (four wide last lap from the tail), with Ozzie Sunshine which raced exposed from outside the front line narrowly taking over on the home turn and battling away strongly for third 5.1 metres away. The mile rate a slick 1-54.

■ The Beraldo Coffee 3Y0 Maiden Pace over 1690 metres saw Bettors Delight-Ghadas Delight gelding The Wise Guy victorious when making his race debut.

Trained at Murchison North by Shane Sanderson and driven by son Ryan, The Wise Guy settled one/one from gate three on the second line as Fifty Seven Chevy went like one to lead from outside the front line giving his rivals something to chase for local Monique Burnett.

Dropping to trail the leader in the last lap, The Wise Guy ran home stylishly to prevail by six metres in a rate of 1-56.6 from Fifty Seven Chevy who’s win is not too far off. Raging hot favourite Apollo Storm which galloped in the first lap when three back in the moving line and tailing out made up many yards for third 13.1 metres away.

■ The O’Brien Electrical Pace over 2180 metres went the way of Cranbourne trainer/ driver Scott Ewen’s 7Y0 mare Blazin Heaven, a daughter of Rock N Roll Heaven and Good Girl Becqui who chalked up her 14th success in 112 outings, returning a mile rate of 2-01.

Beginning fast from gate four along with Monsieur Flamel inside her leading momentarily, Blazin Heaven was able to cross and lead turning into the back straight on the first occasion and held too many guns for Monsieur Flamel along the sprint lane by 2.1 metres which was given every opportunity to run her down.

Direct Command after being eased to the tail from outside the front line went forward midrace to park outside the winner and battled on gamely for third 3.1 metres away.

■ Kialla owner/trainer Mitchell Frost used the services of co-Kialla based Tasmyn Potter to land the 2180 metre TAB & Older Maiden Pace aboard cleverly named 4Y0 Vincent-Come Dance With Me mare Savoy Ballroom.

Racing roughly from gate two as the start was effected, Savoy Ballroom settled three back in the moving line with Muselet (gate four) leading from Here Comes Lenny (gate five) and With In Reason easing away from inside the second line to possie one/two.

Set alight mid-race with a great turn of speed to lead approaching the bell, Savoy Ballroom couldn’t be caught to run out a 5.1 metre victor over Muselet and With In Reason who was 1.5 metres away in third place. The mile rate 201.6.

Revved up

■ Congratulations were in order when Heathcote father and son Jim and Sean O’Sullivan combined to land the 1690 metre Lyn McPherson Memorial Need For Speed Silver Series (2nd Heat) for Trotters at Maryborough on Friday with 71 race start 8Y0 Muscle HillLunar Landing mare Illawong Stardust.

Not having much luck in recent outings, Illawong Stardust dropping back a mile in grade was sent forward by Sean from gate six to cross Salski (gate three) without spending too much petrol and once there the race was as good as over.

Revved up in the straight, Illawong Stardust bred by the late Martin Hartnett and racing in the name of his daughter Kristen safely held a margin to the wire, scoring by 5 metres from Salski who always looked like doing so. Polemarker Izarra (three pegs) held third 13.4 metres away. The mile rate 1-58.4.

Sulky Snippets Sulky Snippets

This Week

■ Meetings for the week : Tuesday –Shepparton, Wednesday – Stawell/Bendigo, Thursday – Ballarat, Friday – Geelong, Saturday – Melton, Sunday – Cranbourne, Monday – Swan Hill.

■ Great Western trainer/driver Michelle Wight caused an upset in the VSTA Trotters Mobile when 4Y0 Skyvalley-Francis Annie gelding Maximez greeted the judge at odds of $21.00. Bred and raced by Michelle and husband Craig, Maximez settled mid-field in the moving line from gate two on the second line as Rocky Valley from outside the front line crossed Astro (gate two) to pilot the field, with polemarker Bullapark Beno coming away from the markers to race uncovered.

Asked for an effort in the last lap, Maximez sprinted brilliantly to defeat Boutika along the sprint lane from four pegs, with Rocky Valley holding third 1.2 metres back. The mile rate 202.

Great second

■ It was the ($30,000) Terang Co-Op Pacing Cup night on Friday supplemented by the ($20,000) Matthews Petroleum Terang Trotting Cup (both Classic Listed) on Friday and both odds-on favourites Don’t Stop Dreaming and Keayang Chucky were victorious over the 2680 metre journey.

Don’t Stop Dreaming coming off a great second to champion Leap To Fame in the Cranbourne Cup a week earlier was too tough. Driven by Kate Gath, Don’t Stop Dreaming listed as being trained by Mark & Nathan Purdon with Brooke Wilkins in charge settled at the rear from the extreme draw with Exotic Bushranger and Michael Stanley leading from gate four.

Going forward mid-race to join the leader racing for the bell, Don’t Stop Dreaming had too much quality for his rivals, winning by 3.6 metres in a mile rate of 1-57.4 (last half 54.8 –quarter 27.6) from Keayang Tokyo (gate five –one/two – three wide to race exposed momentarily before taking a trail on Don’t Stop Dreaming) and switching to the sprint lane on turning for a great second when first up since last September. Stablemate Jilliby Nitro (always handy from gate six) was third a neck away.

■ The Trotters Cup was easy for Marg and Paddy Lee when 6Y0 Love You-The Sun Goddess gelding Keayang Chucky toyed with his rivals.

Coming from a 30 metre back mark made little difference to Keayang Chucky who after settling at the tail of the field moved to be three back in the running line racing for the bell as both Aldebaran Vera (four pegs) and Plymouth Chubb (6 pegs) eased away from the markers. When Aldebaran Vera took care of the leader Jazspur prior to the home turn with Plymouth Chubb and Keayang Chucky in hot pursuit, Keayang Chucky out wide on straightening ran home strongly to greet the judge unextended by 4.3 metres over Aldebaran Vera which ran the race of her life. Plymouth Chubb was third 1.7 metres away and will improve vastly on that effort his first since December. The mile rate 201.7 (half 57.8 – quarter 29.2).

- Len Baker

Increased limits

■ Harness Racing Victoria has increased field size limits.Racetracks with a circumference of 900m and greater will have field limits of 12 starters in all races. Tracks with a circumference of less than 900m will have limits of 11 starters for all mobile races and 12 starters in all standing start races.

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OLD Bike Australasia 11, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 37, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,. 47, 48, 49, 51, 52. GC. $3. Mill Park. 0452 665 276. H-O

COMMUNITY GROUPS can advertise their upcoming events in The Local Paper, without advertising charges. Go to the What’s On - Free Ad Form section at the www.Local Paper.com.au website

Sat., Mar. 22. 10am2pm. Watsonia Primary School Open Day and Fair. Join us for a special day of celebration at our School Open Day and Fair, marking an incredible milestone—our 65th Birthday. Explore our vibrant school community with guided tours, showcasing our facilities and curriculum for prospective families. Enjoy a variety of fun rides, delicious food trucks, live music, stalls, and a historical display highlighting our 65year legacy of excellence. The day will be filled excitement, discovery, and a chance to connect with our past and present. Don’t miss this memorable event as we celebrate 65 years of learning, growth, and achievement. Free entry. Meagher St, Watsonia. Phone: 0407 885 580. Web: https://www. facebook.com/share/ 1DRdcx3Wch/ F-L

ANZ BANK Money Boxes. GC. Negotiable. Mill Park. 9436 8935. H-O

UNIT. One bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, laundry and living area. Private entrance. Price includes utilities (power/gas/water). VGC. $300 per week. Diamond Creek. 0404 433 572. H-O TO RENT

TENT. Wild Country. Hardly ever used. EC. $80. Mill Park. 0452 665 276 H-O