WN_26th_Mar2025 by Mornington Peninsula News Group

‘Munn’s 45-year career is a class act ’ - Page 5

Crime soars on the peninsula

Brendan Rees brendan@mpnews.com.au

THEFT from motor vehicles, burglaries, and car theft have fuelled a soaring crime rate in the Mornington Peninsula Shire – up 28.3 per cent in 2024, according to the latest official Crime Statistics Agency data. Crime rose across most suburbs and most criminal categories including

1297 incidents of theft from motor vehicle offences (up 40 per cent) and 1330 burglary incidents (up 34 per cent), among the big movers in the year ending December last year.

Also up were family violence order breaches (762 offences, up 28 per cent), assaults (13 per cent), residential non-aggravated burglaries (32 per cent), other theft (29 per cent), and criminal damage (three per cent). There were also 362 vehicles re-

Our farm is family owned and managed.

We have been producing quality

for over 40 years, supplying the

restaurants and other businesses on the peninsula.

ported stolen in 2024 – up 45 per cent. Theft from retail shops also soared 28 per cent, with 658 incidents recorded.

Other significant rises were sexual offences (up 26 per cent), stalking (28 per cent) and drug use and possession (18 per cent).

Houses were the most common locations for recorded offences, with a 28 per cent increase, up from 1993 to 2806 incidents. There were also 37

incidents of assault police, emergency services or other authorised officer.

Across the shire’s suburbs, criminal offences were up in Mornington (up five per cent), Rosebud (34 per cent), Dromana (28 per cent), and Somerville (26 per cent).

Child offenders aged 10-17 were however down from 633 to 590 offenders. The highest rise was in the 30–34-year-old category (up 23 per cent).

Victoria Police deputy-commissioner Bob Hill said he welcomed the government’s bail changes, which he believed would lead to a reduction in youth offending and crimes such as aggravated burglaries.

“We completely understand the community’s concerns around young offenders breaking into homes, stealing cars, and putting other people at risk on our roads,” he said.

Continued Page 9

HASTINGS

Picture: Gary Sissons

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Board appointed for inquiry in McCrae landslide

Cameron McCullough cameron@mpnews.com.au

THE state government have appointed Renée Enbom KC to lead the inquiry into the cause of the landslide that occurred in McCrae on 14 January.

Enbom has appeared in several inquiries in Victoria over the last decade, including the Royal Commission into the Management of Police Informants and the Yoorrook Justice Commission, as well as several recent Commonwealth Royal Commissions.

A statement from the government said the board of inquiry would be asked to “get to the bottom of what happened and to identify measures to prevent similar incidences occurring in the future”.

“Once established, the inquiry will develop a process for locals to engage with its work, with details on how people can submit their stories to be released in the coming weeks.”

A government gazette, published on 18 March, established the objectives of the board of inquiry are to:

n Determine the cause of the landslide

n Determine the adequacy of measures taken to prevent and minimise landslides and landslips in the McCrae area including reviewing responses to previous landslides and landslips.

n Identify measures to be undertaken to prevent or mitigate the risk of similar events to the McCrae landslide occurring in the future in

the McCrae area. Placed outside the scope of the board of inquiry are the response, with “actions taken since the McCrae landslide” generally excluded. This would put beyond the scope of the inquiry the response by the Mornington Peninsula Shire, the emergency re-

sponse, relief and recovery activities. Also outside the scope of the inquiry will be insurance arrangements of affected parties.

The gazette detailed that the board of inquiry must provide any findings and recommendations to the Governor “as soon as possible, and not

The state government is moving forward with its board of inquiry into the 14 January McCrae landslide.

Picture: Yanni

later than 18 June 2025”. To facilitate the findings, the board of inquiry is “authorised to incur expenses and financial obligations… up to $3.13m”.

The inquiry’s findings and recommendations will identify any measures to prevent or mitigate risk of similar events occurring in the future in McCrae.

“We know that residents in McCrae have been let down and too many questions remain unanswered, that’s why we’re establishing a board of inquiry to get to the bottom of what happened,” said Minister for Local Government Nick Staikos.

“This new independent inquiry will ensure local residents’ voices are heard and help us do everything we can to ensure it doesn’t happen again.”

Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh added “We have been meeting with residents and listening to their concerns as many remain without access to their homes”.

“This inquiry will investigate how and why this happened, and what steps need to be taken to prevent future landslides.”

Mornington Peninsula Shire mayor Cr Anthony Marsh told The News he was generally pleased with the

board of inquiry and would be happy to partake or have the Mornington Peninsula Shire as an organisation respond.

“I just hope this inquiry is genuinely aimed at uncovering the real causes and isn’t merely a witch-hunt,” Marsh said.

“When Nick Staikos asserts that ‘residents in McCrae have been let down,’ we require clarity on who is accountable, especially since the cause of the landslide remains unidentified. The inquiry must steer clear of any predetermined outcomes.”

“It is vital for the board of inquiry to find the right balance, especially given the tight timeframe of less than three months to present their findings. They need to thoroughly uncover the facts without unnecessarily impeding ongoing recovery efforts.”

“What I mean is that we can’t afford to divert shire resources from critical tasks and ongoing investigations to focus on compiling responses for the inquiry.”

“Additionally, we still have not received any reply from the Minister for Emergency Services and Natural Disaster Recovery regarding our urgent request for technical and financial assistance, sent on January 21 –just one week after the landslide.”

“The $3.14 million allocated for the board of inquiry is substantial, especially when affected residents remain displaced, continue to experience financial hardship, and have yet to receive any direct financial assistance from the state government.”

7 FACTS

ABOUT BEN SMITH & THE TEAL INDEPENDENTS

Greens and teals would wreak havoc in minority Labor government

The Greens and the more left-leaning teals would exert enormous hydraulic pressure on a Labor government to move even further leftward. This would likely have grave consequences. A government configured in this way would find it almost impossible to relate effectively to a Donald Trump presidency in Washington, should that eventuate 4 May 2024

1. SMITH IS PART OF THE TEAL MOVEMENT

Ben Smith’s campaign is financially supported by Climate 200, 1 founded by Simon Holmes à Court and defined by the Australian Electoral Commission as a “significant third party.” Climate 200 is the main backer behind “Teal” Independents in parliament.

2. TEALS VOTE MOSTLY WITH GREENS

Parliamentary voting records 2 show the eight Teal Independents have voted:

OF THE TIME WITH THE

OF THE TIME WITH

OF THE TIME WITH THE

On votes for legislation, the Teal Independents’ voting is even more skewed, voting 77% with the Greens, versus 20% with the Liberals. 3

3. TEALS ARE WEAK ON SECURITY

For example, in February 2023, every Teal Independent voted with the Greens against tougher laws to stop criminals getting visas . 4

Despite youth crime in Victoria reaching a 15-year high last year, The Independent for Flinders Facebook group which promotes Ben Smith has posted online about the “fallacy of increased youth crime” 5

4. TEALS WANT HIGHER TAXES

Teal MPs want higher taxes – including on investments, housing and a higher GST. Ben Smith has also argued against negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions 6. This would mean higher taxes on investments and housing.

5. BEN SMITH WANTS AUSTRALIA DAY CHANGED

Prior to Australia Day this year, Smith said “I support changing the date…” 7

6. SMITH AND THE TEALS STRONGLY SUPPORT THE VOICE

Ben Smith supports the Voice , as did all eight Teal Independent MPs. 8 The Independent for Flinders webpage still professes its support for a Voice, Truth and Treaty. 9 By contrast, 57% of people in Flinders voted NO .

7. RISKS A LABOR–GREENS–TEALS MINORITY GOVERNMENT

The next election is expected to be close, with many commentators predicting a “hung parliament” where no party can form majority government. If that happens, Greens and Independents could decide who forms government.

Despite campaigning on “transparency”, Teal Independents have consistently refused to say who they would back into government if there’s a hung parliament.

The Teals’ voting record shows they overwhelmingly support the Greens and Labor

Munn’s 45-year career is a class act

Brendan Rees brendan@mpnews.com.au

HASTINGS Primary School has bid

a formal farewell to dedicated teacher

Jo Munn who has retired after 45 years in the profession.

As a physical education and bike education teacher, Munn was passionate about providing “life skills to kids outside of the classroom”.

Her career began in 1976 where she taught at Crib Point Primary School for two years before embarking on her decades-long long tenure at Hastings Primary School – with her legacy to inspire the school community for years to come.

She was also an assistant principal where she was the driver behind a program called Good Living, which was about promoting healthy lifestyles, and being active and safe.

One achievement that stood out most to Munn was when Hastings Primary was acknowledged nationally as an “exemplar school” in a federal-government program called Kids Matter.

“It was all about schools being able to provide a safe, supportive environment and early intervention to mental health, which a number of years ago was really not considered among primary school aged children but we embraced it,” Munn said.

“We were one of 100 schools who were asked to pilot the program across Australia and that made significant changes to our school.”

While she officially retired at the end of last year, an emotional surprise celebration was held at the school on 21 March.

The event was attended by representatives of the Education Department and Road Safety Victoria (on behalf of the Department of Transport

and Planning) with the dignitaries presenting Munn a certificate of recognition for her services to bike education.

Hastings MP Paul Mercurio provided a letter, which was read out on behalf of the school acknowledging her outstanding achievements.

Munn said she was “very honoured, proud, and chuffed” by the celebration, which coincided on a national Ride2School Day, which she and the school were always thrilled to be a part of each year.

She said the ride, which began at the Pelican Park Recreation Cen-

tre, was an opportunity to promote healthy and active transportation options.

The school has made it their mission to ensure every student was able to ride a two-wheeler bike by the time they finished school, she said.

But Munn’s support of bike riding has not just been about physical education, with the values of safety and responsibility being even more poignant to her after the tragic deaths of three former students who were all involved in road incidents during their late teens.

“Those things stick in your mind, and you think if there’s something I can do to prevent others from having the same tragedy and not having a life into their 20s, then let’s do it as a school,” she said.

Looking back on her career, she said it was a mix of emotions and memories that would last a lifetime.

“I have worked with some inspirational leaders and very dedicated colleagues and been able to be there when generations of families come through the school,” she said.

“For them to know immediately they’ve got that relationship, and trust is vitally important to the work I’ve done.”

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Kids Bounce Castles, Face Painting & much, much more to see!

THE bike shed at Hastings Primary School, named in Jo Munn’s honour. Picture: Gary Sissons

Journalists: Brodie Cowburn, Brendan Rees

Ph: 5974 9000. Email: team@mpnews.com.au

Photographers: Gary Sissons, Yanni

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REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS: Peter McCullough, Stuart McCullough, Craig MacKenzie.

ADDRESS: Mornington Peninsula News Group PO Box 588 Hastings 3915

Email: team@mpnews.com.au Web: www.mpnews.com.au

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Tip rehabilitation to fall on ratepayers

Brendan Rees brendan@mpnews.com.au

MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire ratepayers will foot a $1.125m bill to clean up a former Crib Point tip after the site was subject to scrutiny by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) four years ago.

A contractor has been appointed to undertake landfill cap rehabilitation works at the former landfill - now the Lens Reserve at 2 Lens St in Bitternto reduce the infiltration of rainwater and prevent leakage of landfill gasses.

The project includes repairs to the existing compacted clay liner, which prevents contaminants from leaking to the surface, in areas that have been reduced to below 500mm in thickness.

It would also address surface water pooling on the cap, managing steeper slopes on the eastern and western batters, removing selected trees that pose a risk to the integrity of the clay liner, and building a new walking track.

The project is in response to the Victorian EPA issuing a Pollution Abatement Notice for the site in April 2021, which requires the shire to supply a Landfill Rehabilitation Plan.

Under the plan, the council must design and undertake cap rehabilitation works on areas of the landfill cap where they do not meet current EPA requirements.

The production of leachate would also be reduced as part of the works and prevent landfill gas from venting directly to the atmosphere via the inadequate cap.

“The proposed works will also benefit the local residents who use

the site for passive recreation, as the surface will be more uniform with a reconstructed walking track and any undulations will be eradicated,” the council report said.

“Additionally, as part of the current EPA reforms for contaminated land management, the new Environment Protection Act (2017) (EP Act) that came into force on 1 July 2021, introduced a General Environmental Duty (GED) that requires businesses to manage their activities to reduce the risk of environmental damage. The proposed works will assist the shire

to meet its GED, as well as manage contaminated land,” the shire report said.

The total cost of the project is $1.125 but “a funding shortfall has been identified following the submission of tenders,” the report said.

Councillors at their 11 March meeting unanimously supported a council officer’s recommendation for an undisclosed tenderer to undertake the project.

The contract specifies construction be carried out from June to October.

THE former landfill site at Lens Reserve in Bittern. Picture: Gary Sissons

Bail changes to combat ‘serious’ crime

Brodie Cowburn brodie@mpnews.com.au

TOUGHER bail conditions are set to be imposed on offenders as part of sweeping changes proposed by the state government, but some experts have warned that marginalised communities may be unfairly affected.

Did You Know?

Controlled Organisations, community services, and the family violence and legal sectors. The letter asks that the state government not amend bail laws until a full statutory review can take place in 2026.

The percentage of people aged 65 or older with earwax impaction is reported to be as high as 34%!

The state government introduced its bail reform to Parliament last week. It is seeking to amend the Bail Act to remove the principle of “remand as last resort” for youths, and introduce bail offences.

Do you experience any of the following?

• Earache

• Itching

The state government plans to introduce “commit an indictable offence while on bail for an indictable offence” into the Bail Act, and make the offence “breach of condition of bail” a summary offence. They will be punishable by up to three months imprisonment.

• Tinnitus (ringing and buzzing in the ears)

• Vertigo

• Hearing loss

The Bill also toughens bail tests for multiple serious offences, including armed robbery, aggravated burglary, home invasion, and carjacking.

The letter calls for ten measures to be considered, including “immediately make further investment in therapeutic bail support options which will improve community safety, do not reinstate double uplift to ensure people are not locked up on remand for offences unlikely to result in imprisonment, exclude non-violent and summary offences from any legislative changes that further restrict access to bail, expand the jurisdiction of the Koori Court to hear bail applications, and ensure any amendments to existing bail laws do not prevent children and young people from accessing therapeutic and rehabilitative supports within the community.”

These could be the complications of excessive or impacted earwax.

Why choose microsuction at Viva Hearing?

Premier Jacinta Allan said that the reforms will be “fast-tracked” in response to growing crime levels state wide. “Under my government, bail is getting tougher because community safety comes first,” she said.

Victorian Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny said “this Bill is all about protecting Victorians from the most serious kind of repeat offending. We have fast-tracked a number of changes so they will start straight away once the Bill is proclaimed.”

A statement from the Peninsula Community Legal Centre read that it “stands with Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service and our CLC colleagues condemning the proposed changes to bail reform.”

Microsuction has become widely recognised as the gold standard for efficient and safe earwax removal. This advanced procedure uses a specialised suction device under direct visualisation, allowing for precise and controlled removal of earwax while significantly reducing the risk of trauma to the ear canal and eardrum.

Federation of Community Legal Centres CEO Louisa Gibbs said “the bail reforms that came into effect less than a year ago were evidencebased and the product of many months of consultation with legal experts, communities, and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations. The decision to overhaul these considered laws in a rushed response to a scare campaign will only exacerbate issues of rising crime.”

Unlike traditional ear syringing, microsuction is quick, comfortable, and does not require the prior use of eardrops. It is particularly beneficial for seniors looking to improve their hearing without the discomfort or potential infection risks associated with syringing.

In the 2023/2024 financial year, the number of offences recorded in the Frankston municipality increased by more than 19 percent from the year prior. In the Mornington Peninsula Shire municipality total offences recorded increased by more than 22 percent in the year ending June 2024, however in the Kingston LGA total offences recorded dropped by 1.6 percent (“Crime statistics skyrocket” The News 8/10/2024).

The proposed changes to the justice system have faced some criticism. Peninsula Community Legal Centre, a free legal service for people in Frankston and on the Mornington Peninsula, has signed an open letter calling the changes a “knee-jerk” response.

The letter has been signed by nearly 100 representatives from Aboriginal Community

“The situation is not as simple as saying that locking people up will provide greater community safety. The data shows that keeping people in prison on remand increases the likelihood of them committing further crimes, and that any time spent in prison is the number one risk factor for re-offending and being incarcerated in the future. It’s time to focus on putting services and systems in place that prevent people from offending in the first place, rather than creating pathways to further offending through incarceration,” Gibbs said.

“Victoria’s community legal centres oppose changes to the bail laws that will disproportionately impact Aboriginal people, and support the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service in their powerful advocacy to keep all of our communities safe.”

Picture: Supplied

Grant awarded to legal centre

seeing the far-reaching outcomes delivered by all our successful grantees as they work tirelessly to improve access to justice for Victorians.”

Victorian Attorney-General and Carrum MP Sonya Kilkenny said “every Victorian deserves fair and accessible legal support - no matter who they are, where they live or what their circumstances are.”

Occupants flee burning home

A HOUSE has gone up in flames in Rosebud on 20 March with all those inside lucky to escape.

Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV), alongside firefighters from CFA responded to the blaze just before 9pm at Ninth Avenue in Rosebud after receiving multiple triple-zero calls of a large fire.

“Firefighters arrived on scene within five minutes to find the upper level of two storey house engulfed in flames,” an FRV spokesperson said.

“Crews worked quickly to extinguish the fire on the upper level of the house before attacking

hot spots on the lower level.”

The occupants safely evacuated the building and were located at the scene.

The scene was deemed under control just after 10pm.

Police were at the property the following morning with the area cordoned off.

Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria were also called.

Brendan Rees

Legal Services Board CEO and commissioner Fiona McLeay said “the Victorian Legal Services Board’s grants program is growing, delivering $19.3m in public purpose fund support to 16 programs in this round. I look forward to

“By funding these critical programs, we’re ensuring more Victorians can get the help they need to navigate the legal system - from housing justice to family violence support, these grants will make a real difference in people’s lives.”

Picture: Gary Sissons

Rye skatepark plans revealed

Rees brendan@mpnews.com.au

NEW concept plans to overhaul Rye’s skatepark have been approved, and are set to serve all levels of skate ability including as a training ground for local Olympic squad members.

Mornington Peninsula Shire councillors threw their support behind the proposed plans for the new expansive skate park at RJ Rowley Recreation Reserve including an upgrade to the existing play space, supporting amenities and park accessibility.

High-quality bowls and a sheltered spectator area are among the features for the plans, replacing the 20-yearold existing skatepark.

A three-pocket combination bowl will be for intermediate and advanced skaters, while a street skate area will be geared towards beginners and casual skaters.

It will also allow young athletes on the peninsula including two Australian Olympic Squad members to use it as a training ground in preparation for the 2028 Olympics.

The shire’s skate and BMX strategy had identified that the skate park was suited to more experienced skaters and recommended that a future upgrade also caters to beginners, including additional street skate elements, and improve accessibility.

The concept plans received input from the Rye Skatepark Advisory Group, council members, PLAYCE landscape architects, and stakeholders

from the Victorian skate community.

A survey showed just over 93 per cent of respondents believed the concept was a positive outcome for the community.

Councillors unanimously supported the concept plans at their 11 March meeting.

Nepean ward councillor Andrea Allen said work on the skatepark would start later this year with an expected completion date of February/March 2026.

“The upgrade will mean the park can also cater for beginners and include streetscape elements to attract a

wider range of uses,” she said, adding it would also attract young families.

“Currently, the Rye skatepark does not serve the community well due to outdated design and the poor condition of the unmaintained safety service.”

Allen also noted she was pleased to see how working closely with stakeholders, including “those beyond the skateboarding community, and having multiple workshops to develop the concept plan has resulted in a design that the community is satisfied with”.

The skate park upgrade follows a $130,000 shire contribution to the

project’s design, in response to the state government awarding $1m via its Sport and Recreation VictoriaCommunity Sport and Recreation Grants initiative to deliver stage one of the project.

Stage two, including an upgrade to the play space, social space/amenities and accessible car parking, is a “longer-term action”, the shire said, which would be “subject to the availability of future funding, either through grants or council’s annual budget process”.

Welcoming the news was former Australian skateboard champion and founder of an international skateboarders registered Charity Moss Foundation, Robert Francis, who had worked hard with the community to bring the new skatepark’s plans to fruition.

“Male and female members of the Australian Olympic Squad live in our shire and travel as far as Brunswick to train,” he said, adding it would make a huge difference to their training regime.

Francis, a Mt Eliza resident and Australia’s first professional skateboarder, added the improved social connectedness among youths would be equally important in terms of the “pride and positive engagement this world class facility will bring into their lives”.

“Put simply, the kids that don’t fit the traditional team sports culture need to burn off energy, and this facility will bring that opportunity to many.”

jumps 28.3 per cent

Continued from Page 1

“Be assured that police are arresting the state’s worst young offenders again and again - youth gang members, child car thieves and underage burglars were arrested 3400 times last year as part of Operation Alliance and Operation Trinity.”

Dep Comm Hill added technology was playing a part in rising crime, particularly car thefts as offenders used electronic devices to exploit vehicle security systems and steal cars.

Among the victims of crime on the peninsula was a Balnarring resident who tried to chase two intruders who broke into his family garage in early March.

“I ran outside but they took off pretty quick”, the resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said, after he heard “someone rustling around outside”. Fortunately, nothing was stolen but the resident said one of the trays on their ute was down while the back of the garage was open, noting that four other cars in the street had been targeted on the same day.

“They’ve been so much of it recently; it’s in the back of your mind all the time.”

Shadow Police Minister David Southwick said crime had skyrocketed under the Premier Jacinta Allan’s watch.

“Crime is surging – and Victorians are paying the price. A 19 per cent rise in crime since she took office is a damning indictment of Labor’s failure to keep our communities safe,” he said. Peninsula

Brendan

LILLY Sherriff, Ned Morrison, Jake Harvey, Rob Francis and Cam Williams. A new skatepark will be built at RJ Rowley Recreation Reserve. Picture: Gary Sissons

FEDERAL ELECTION 2025

Libs focus on crime, Labor looks to the skies, while Smith team gets positive polling before campaign launch

Cameron McCullough cameron@mpnews.com.au

WITH still no election date announced last week, candidates were on the hustings with numermous appearances at schools, stalls and shopping strips by McKenzie (Liberal), Race (Labor) and Smith (Independent).

The only other two candiates to have nominated for the upcoming election, Mike Brown (One Nation) and Adam Frogley (Greens) had their first foray into the public rhelm at the shire-organised candidate forum, making Flinders a five-way race at present.

Liberal candiate Zoe McKenzie held a law and order forum on Monday (17 March) coinciding with a visit from Shadow Minister for Community Safety, the Hon Jason Wood MP.

“Jason and I, together with Chris Crewther, state Member for Mornington, deputy mayor Paul Pingiaro, and additional guests councillor Kate Roper (representing Neighbourhood Watch) and Police Federation of Australia president Karl David APM, joined with members of our community to talk about the increase in crime and the failures of both the Allan and Albanese governments,” said McKenzie.

“In the room was a feeling of palpable agitation; the federal and state Labor governments have not been doing enough. There were questions fielded from the floor from everything from the hapless and weak bail laws that are currently in force, and possible solutions for early intervention and prevention of youth crime.

“However, the Coalition is committed to doing what it can to put pressure on state governments to do a better job at law and order.”

McKenzie outlined the Coalition’s committment improve community safety, announcing:

n $7.5m for Crime Stoppers over three years to expand operations aimed at reducing crime.

n To establish a National Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme.

n To work with states and territories to creates uniform crime laws across all jurisdictions.

n To make it an offence to use mobile phones or computer networks to intimidate or threaten an intimate partner of family member.

n To make it illegal to post mate-

rial glamourising violence, drug and property crimes to increase a person’s notoriety, and to give the e-safety commissioner take down order powers.

n To revitalising the Safer Communities Fund, after the Albanese Government cut $50m from high-risk youth programs.

n To strengthen Australia’s laws relating to hate crimes, and threats of violence against places of worship; as well as minimum sentences for antiSemitic or terrorist symbols.

The candiate’s forum wasn’t the only debate stage where candidates could flex their policies to an eager crowd this week. Both McKenzie and Labor’s Sarah Race attended a “democracy class” at Rosebud Secondary College where the discussion was, according to McKenzie “robust and respectful”.

The Sarah Race campaign’s big announcement this week was tackling the persistent issue of poor mobile coverage on the Mornington Peninsula.

Mobile coverage is far from univer-

sal on the peninsula with persistent areas of poor coverage (Push for Somerville phone tower rejected, The News 22/10/24).

While an issue of federal funding, attempts to build more phone towers to improve coverage are often met with community opposition (Somerville residents oppose new phone tower The News 28/8/22).

Other areas affected by poor mobile coverage on the peninsula include Pt Leo, Hastings, Mt Martha, Somers, Red Hill, and Tyabb.

Labor has announced a world-first reform to provide basic universal outdoor mobile coverage across Australia.

The “Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation” will require mobile carriers to provide access to mobile voice and SMS, almost everywhere Australians can see the sky.

The obligation will require telecommunications companies to use existing bands of satellites to provde back-up service in coverage blackspots offering the consumer universal coverage.

“Labor understands that communicating with loved ones, especially in an emergency, is absolutely critical, and that for our first responders reliable mobile coverage is essential to save lives,” said Race.

“Our lives are dependent on good communications. Labor is building a connected future for Australia, and building on the visionary NBN. The Liberals can’t be trusted when it comes to essential public services.”

The highly visible campaign by independent candidate Ben Smith has received encouraging poll news with recent polling showing Smith is within striking distance of McKenzie.

The poll showed Smith currently at 49%, two candidate preferred against Zoe McKenzie’s 51%. An increase of four points in just a matter of weeks.

The poll was conducted by uComms on behalf of Climate 200 and it indicates a significant shift in voter sentiment from the 2022 election, when the seat was won with a comfortable Liberal margin.

“This poll reflects what I have been hearing from the peninsula community. Everywhere I go people tell me they are sick of decades of being taken for granted by the major parties and that they want results,” Smith said.

“I am telling voters that if they elect me I will fight for upgrading our crumbling hospital, tackle rising living costs, and secure the infrastructure funding we’ve been denied.

“When my volunteers and I are out on the street or knocking on doors, the message we are getting loud and clear is that people here want a representative who puts community needs above party politics.

“It’s still an uphill battle from here. It’s not easy to run a campaign against the major party machines. But we have hundreds of volunteers and thousands of supporters who will keep fighting because this election presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the peninsula to finally secure the representation we deserve.”

Smith will officially launch his campaign for Flinders on Sunday 30 March at Dromana Estate from 11am to 1pm, with hundreds of community members expected to attend.

The campaign told The News “The family-friendly event will feature community speakers, live entertainment, and refreshments”.

Meanwhile Greens cadidate Adam Frogley has begun rolling out his messaging for the upcoming election.

The father of five told The News “The people of Flinders need greater access to family violence support services, to have the cost of living reduced, to see home ownership as a reality, not a dream, and real action on climate change that will provide a better future for our children”.

He will be releasing information on specific policy initiatives in the coming weeks.

LIBERAL Zoe McKenzie and Labor candidate Sarah Race both attended a “democracy class” with students from Rosebud Secondary College. Independent Ben Smith, pictured above at last year’s candidate announcement, is set to officially launch his campaign on 30 March . Pictures: Supplied

A full house and few surprises at Flinders forum

Cameron McCullough cameron@mpnews.com.au

HOUSING, healthcare, and the cost of living were at the forefront at a federal election forum attended by Flinders candidates last Thursday, 20 March.

A large crowd watched the forum at Rosebud Country Club to hear the five nominated candidates outline their vision for the Mornington Peninsula. Taking the stage were Flinders MP Zoe McKenzie (Liberal), Adam Frogley (Greens), Ben Smith (Independent), Mike Brown (One Nation), and Sarah Race (Labor).

Topics ranged from housing affordability, healthcare, and infrastructure funding to climate change, crime and the cost of living.

Moderated by mayor Cr Anthony Marsh, the shire stated the aim of the forum was to “provide an open, respectful and balanced platform for candidates to present their priorities for the Mornington Peninsula, address key community concerns, and respond to questions”.

Perhaps the most interesting interaction during the forum came from the two minor contenders on the stage.

One Nation candidate Mike Brown was keen to advocate for a return to fossil fuels, and an abandonment of the renewables “nonsense”, while admitting he actually drove an electric vehicle. Greens candidate Adam Frogley espoused the merits of a sustainable future being the way forward for Australia while also conceding he enjoyed restoring and driving V8s.

There were few other surprises in the answers each candidate gave at the event. McKenzie kicked things off by telling attendees “I’ve had the great honour and joy to represent this amazing community over the last three years, but I must say that over the last three years things have become much,

much harder”.

“Flinders has always been a seat that has sent someone to Canberra that makes an impact locally and nationally,” said McKenzie, an opening salvo aimed at the independent on the stage.

“I have a history of delivering”.

The last to introduce herself was Labor candidate Sarah Race. “I live by two political maxims. One is that all politics is local,” she said.

Race explained to the forum attendees that she saw her four years as a councillor as an apprenticeship for parliament. “I spent four years looking people in the eye and learning about their realationship to this incredible place we call home.”

Independent Ben Smith explained his long roles in the community sector. “I thought to myself, I could be fundraising for the rest of my life to feed people and house people, or I could be involved in something that sees the issue resolved at the place it begins, and I believe that is at the policy level at Canberra.”

Smith stated that a strong crossbench was the best way to deliver on day-to-day issues.

Adam Frogley from the Greens said he was an Aboriginal man born and raised in Healesville. “No, I’m not a resident, but that doesn’t mean we don’t suffer the same impacts,” he said.

“It is clear to me that there are a number of things that are very, very wrong. Cost of living, of course. We really need action on cost of living.”

Mike Brown, representing One Nation, said “I put my hat in the ring because I wanted to support making a difference. I’m sick of the political spin. I’m sick to death of all the rubbish in politics.

“What we are standing up for is really to make Australia great again.”

The first question for candidates was on housing and rental affordability.

Race said the Albanese government was investing $35 billion into new homes. McKenzie said “my side of politics has been very clear that the solution is supply, supply, supply and more supply”.

Smith said his priority was to legislate the National Housing and Homelessness Plan, while The Greens candidate Frogley said his party would look at ways to encourage more public housing to be built. Brown said One Nation’s priority was to “stop the mass migration policies” and to ban home ownership for foreigners.

Moving onto healthcare and mental health, the future of Rosebud Hospital was on the agenda.

Race said “a re-elected Albanese government will give the biggest ever boost to Medicare, including an urgent care clinic at Somerville.”

McKenzie responded to Race’s assertion by claiming “bulk billing has plummeted under this government”.

Smith said “I will push for a major federal government investment to make sure we get our fair share for our hospital down here.”

Brown said “I have had firsthand experience at Rosebud Hospital and they are underfunded. One Nation would make sure they are properly funded”.

Frogley said the Greens “would support the redevelopment of Rosebud Hospital”.

The next question dealt with cost of living. Asked what specific measures the candidates would introduce to assist with cost of living pressures, Brown said “Australians are struggling, and Labor, Green and Teals policies are only making it worse”.

Race said “the Albanese Labor government is doing their darndest to reduce the cost of living.”

McKenzie told the audience that the average tax is going up under Labor.

“We’re the boring guys that balance the budget.

“The suggestion that Australians are better off under Labor is absolutely farcical.”

“This issue hasn’t developed overnight,” said Smith. “I’ll be pushing for a Royal Commission into supermarket powers”.

Candidates then answered questions on small business reform, followed by crime. McKenzie promised “there will be announcements coming from me soon on community safety on the peninsula”, while Smith told the forum “the federal government does have a role to play here. It is about making sure we have enough service provision, making sure our young people have programs they can be a part of. Crime must stop before it starts.” Brown said “If you vote for One Nation, we’re going to deport foreign criminals immediately. No second chances.”

The forum then moved on to climate change and environment.

“There is no one solution, but there are things that we can do down here, like micro-grid technology to reduce reliance on the grid,” said Smith.

“There isn’t an industry on a dead planet,” said Race.

McKenzie touted the nuclear option, and mentioned her work protecting the spider crabs at Blairgowrie Pier.

“The reason I’m on my side of politics is that I don’t have time for hypocrisy,” she said. “We have a faster path to net zero. And it is called nuclear.”

Infrastructure, another largely stategovernment managed area, was next.

Smith said that “it is clear that the peninsula has missed out. To only receive one-tenth of what Geelong receives is an outrage.”

“There will be no leverage on a crossbench,” said McKenzie, directed at Smith.

Frogley said “we’re sick to death of the state of the roads.”

The forum ended with each candidate making a final pitch for votes Labor’s Sarah Race said “it’s time to vote Labor on the peninsula. We haven’t had a Labor member in Flinders for 40 years, and you can tell”.

One Nation’s Mike Brown was next - he said “this is a great area to live, but I have seen hell on earth. I’ve had to work hard.”

Independent Smith said “how long can we do the same thing and expect a different result. The crisis we are experiencing will not be fixed unless we try for a different outcome”.

“My commitment is to serve you, and you alone. Not the party.”

Greens Adam Frogley told the audience “I will be forceful and drive change as a representative for you.”

Liberal Zoe McKenzie said “choice matters. The electorate of Flinders needs to send the best person to Canberra.”

“Who on earth is going to pay for these things? Government is hard. We are at risk of becoming an underperforming nation”.

At the conclusion to the forum, the moderator, Marsh, thanked all five candidates for their attendence.

“This forum was an important opportunity to provide our community with the information they need to make an informed decision about who will best represent us at the federal level. We are committed to ensuring our residents are engaged, wellinformed, and empowered throughout this democratic process,” said Marsh.

“I wish all federal election candidates the best of luck with their campaigns. I look forward to working with our newly elected representative and continuing to advocate for the funding and policies that our community needs.”

Picture: Supplied

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NEWS DESK

Residents power up solar savings

THE peninsula has seen a significant uptake in the state government’s Solar Homes Rebate program with a total of 12,500 solar, hot water systems, and battery installations having been completed.

Residents in the seat of Mornington have installed 3670 systems through the scheme, while in the Nepean electorate another 4280 installations have been made since the program launched in 2018.

Hastings MP Paul Mercurio announced in his seat that 4550 systems had been installed, placing Hastings in the top half of state electorates for total installations.

Energy and Resources Minister Lily

D’Ambrosio said households were saving $1000 each year on their energy bills, and if combined with a hot water heat pump, they were saving up to $1400 a year or $1600 with a battery.

Eastern Victoria MP Tom McIntosh and Hastings MP Paul Mercurio last week welcomed the high numbers.

The program offers eligible households access to a $1400 rebate to install solar panels, a further $1400 interest free loan and a rebate of up to $1000 to replace their hot water system –cutting $3800 from upfront installation costs.

Hastings resident and solar user Jessica Evergreen, said “The rebates were incredibly helpful to us as new homeowners and a young family”.

Owner of Donut King fined $10K for child employment breaches

AN owner and operator of Donut King at stores at Rosebud and Berwick has been fined $10,000 for breaching child employment laws.

Sam Minto, the sole director Minto Nominees Pty Ltd, the company of which Donut King trades under, pleaded guilty to 12 charges of breaking Victoria’s child employment laws at the Melbourne Magistrate’s Court on 21 March.

He plead guilty to employing three children under the age of 15 without a licence on 28 occasions; failing to ensure the children are supervised by someone with a Working with Children Clearance; and failing to provide a rest break of at least 30 minutes after every 3 hours of work

Furthermore, Minto pleaded guilty to employing children for longer than three hours per day during a school term and employing children for longer than 6 hours per day during school holidays.

The offences took place between 1 January and 6 July 2024.

The maximum penalty for each offence is $47,422.

The children’s duties at Donut King included taking orders, handling sales transactions, making coffee, operating the donut cooking machinery and making toasted sandwiches.

Child employment laws stipulate that during a school term, children can be employed for a maximum of three hours a day and 12 hours per week.

And during school holidays, the laws stipulate that children can be employed up to six hours a

day and 30 hours a week.

In sentencing, Deputy Chief Magistrate Tim Bourke noted that children are among the most vulnerable members of society and that parents trust employers to have protective measures in place when their children enter the workforce.

Deputy Chief Magistrate Bourke also said the laws were in place to protect children from exploitation and ensured they were safe in the workplace.

He did not record a conviction, taking into account the early guilty plea and the lack of prior offending.

The Wage Inspectorate Victoria, the state’s child employment regulator, began investigating Minto Nominees Pty Ltd after receiving a tip-off that their stores may have been employing kids under 15.

The Inspectorate’s commissioner Robert Hortle said parents put their trust into businesses to keep their children protected.

“Donut King is the type of business where kids get their first job. We’re looking to franchisors, particularly large, well-resourced corporations to show leadership in this space and ensure their franchisees comply with child employment laws,” Hortle said.

“Kids don’t have the same mental or physical stamina as adults, so they can’t work the same hours and need to have regular rest breaks. It’s concerning to see a workplace fail to take the welfare of kids into account.”

LANDON

BOBBI

ELEANOR

ROMI

LENNY

TALA

EASTERN Victoria MP Tom McIntosh. Picture: Supplied

•

Celebrating strength, resilience, and community

WESTERN Port Secondary College in Hastings has hosted a vibrant and inspiring event to celebrate International Women’s Day, bringing together community leaders, students and professionals.

The Women of Western Port event, held on 6 March, honoured the achievements and contributions of women in the region, featuring a powerful mix of speeches, personal stories and a musical performance to inspire the school’s next generation of leaders.

Journalist, radio producer, and author Monique Parsons was among the guests, providing an Acknowledgement of Country, recognising the Bunurong people and their deep storytelling traditions, a theme which resonated throughout the event.

A panel of speakers included David Simmonds (Tyabb Junior Football Netball Club), Sharon Douglas (NBN), Claire Bauska (Regenerate), Ulrike Reinholdt (Australian Business and Community Network), Hayley Cull (Plan International), Bayley Misfud (Merindah-Gunya), Natasha Marsh (Esso), and Flinders MP Zoe McKenzie.

Attendees also included local primary school students, Western Port student leaders, representatives from the Mornington Peninsula Foundation, BlueScope, Western Port Community House, and a range of community organisations such as Rotary, Bendigo Bank, Landcare, and BlueScope.

“Their insights and experiences offered inspiration and motivation to

all in attendance,” the senior school’s assistant principal Laura Higgins said, adding a highlight was a keynote address by Claire Bauska, general manager of Regenerate, which provides furnishings and appliances to families experiencing homelessness due to family violence.

“Claire shared her journey from working in the family violence sector to leading not-for-profit organisations focused on community impact. She spoke candidly about the evolving meaning of International Women’s Day in her life, from early career

aspirations to a deep commitment to advocacy and action,” she said.

“Claire also emphasized the importance of practical support for women and children in crisis, acknowledging the tireless efforts of volunteers and community groups in fostering safety and stability.”

Entertainment was provided by Chloe Kirkpatrick and Rhiel Armstrong-Bernardini whose stirring performance of Superwoman by Alicia Keys set the tone for an inspiring morning Western Port’s student captains

Marcus Harwood, Rory Kingdom, Hala Riyad, and Jenna Chalkitis delivered speeches on the importance of allyship, breaking barriers, and ensuring gender equality benefitted all members of society.

Higgins praised the event for being “more than a celebration” but “a call to action”.

“The discussions highlighted ongoing challenges in achieving gender equality but also showcased the strength and determination of women in the community. The event left attendees feeling inspired, connected,

and committed to continuing the work of empowering the next generation,” she said.

“Western Port Secondary College extends its gratitude to all speakers, guests, and community partners who made this event a resounding success. As the school looks to the future, this gathering marks the beginning of a lasting tradition—one that will continue to uplift and celebrate the Women of Western Port for years to come.”

Brendan Rees

Did You Know?

The percentage of people aged 65 or older with earwax impaction is reported to be as high as 34%!

Do you experience any of the following?

• Earache

• Itching

• Tinnitus (ringing and buzzing in the ears)

• Vertigo

• Hearing loss

These could be the complications of excessive or impacted earwax.

Why choose microsuction at Viva Hearing?

STUDENTS and guest speakers celebrate International Women’s Day at Western Port Secondary College. Picture: Gary Sissons

BAXTER, SOMERVILLE, TYABB, HASTINGS, BITTERN, CRIB POINT, BALNARRING, BALNARRING BEACH, FLINDERS

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This top-floor stunner is located in walking distance to the beach, Coles, ALDI and Woolworths and all the best coffee spots along High Street. The natural light floods every inch of a spacious layout, with the open-plan living space spilling out to a sun-soaked entertainer’s balcony.

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Welcome to a stunning, newly built home that perfectly blends modern design with timeless elegance. This beautifully crafted residence features an sophisticated aesthetic, highlighted by landscaped gardens and an expansive outdoor entertaining area that invites you to savour the serene lifestyle.

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sandstone cladding facade and cottage-style gardens, preceding an interior design that leaves nothing to chance. A formal lounge with an open fireplace sets a romantic tone, moving through a full wall of bi-fold doors

to a decked alfresco dining area with lovely scenes over its natural rear yard. Huge sunken lounge, rumpus, and dining areas continue the grand tour with room for the most significant furniture suites, wrapping around a granite

kitchen with a Belling gas and electric freestanding oven and Smeg dishwasher.

The master suite owns the upper floor with its own private parents retreat, balcony, walk-in robe, and luxe ensuite providing roof storage. With two more king sized bedrooms and a nursery/home office tucked around a semi-ensuite bathroom, toilet, and laundry.

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for the toys or a serious workspace, with ceiling fans, ducted heating and cooling keeping things comfortable year-round.

A laid-back country essence that’s private, peaceful, and completely immersive is finished with a location that’s incredibly convenient, just metres from Morradoo Station and the heart of town, with St Joseph’s and Crib Point primary schools nearby and Hastings, Bittern and Balnarring just a short drive away.n

Steeped in history, Bruce Manor (c1926) is a stunning heritage-listed property, architecturally designed for Prime Minister Lord Stanley Bruce. Restored to perfection, this Mediterranean-inspired mansion features exquisite timber panelling, open fireplaces, balconies and vast accommodation. Features include a separate manager's cottage, twobedroom residence, extensive parking and expansive grounds. Ideal for a grand family home or a prestigious event venue (STCA.) Adjoining the exclusive Millionaires Golf Club, pristine beaches and freeways. 34 Pine Hill Drive, Frankston .

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Expressions of Interest Closing Monday 7 April at 5:00pm

The Guide

TOP PICKS OF THE WEEK

THURSDAY

MONDAY A BITE TO EAT WITH ALICE

ABC TV, 5pm

Colourful chef Alice Zaslavsky (pictured right) is back in the kitchen with a second serving of her fresh and relatable weeknight cooking staple, joined this evening by food critic and journalist Matt Preston (pictured left) for an energetic premiere. Old habits die hard for the former MasterChef contestant and judge: Zaslavsky is keen to hear feedback from “Presto” on her mum’s baked beetroot and Georgian spiced walnuts; while he gives a masterclass in simple country cooking.

TASKMASTER AUSTRALIA

TEN, 8.30pm

Taskmaster Tom Gleeson and his attentive assistant Tom Cashman are back for the fourth season of this comic game show. The quirky British format sees ﬁve comedians (or award-winning actresses with a great sense of humour) pitted against each other as they try to complete ridiculous tasks to gain the approval of a merciless Gleeson. Dave Hughes, Emma Holland, Lisa McCune (pictured), Takashi Wakasugi and Tommy Little face outrageous tasks.

FRIDAY

BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS

7TWO, 7pm

If making the trek to Melbourne’s lush International Flower and Garden Show is out of the question, let Graham Ross (pictured right), Charlie Albone (pictured left) and Melissa King be your guides to the ﬂower-powered event. Taking an in-depth look at the breathtaking show gardens before they open to the public, the trio chat with the visionary landscape designers behind the tranquil and lavish displays. Blooming with colour, creativity and impact, there’s plenty of inspiration here for even the more casual gardeners among us.

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Thursday, March 27

ABC TV (2)

SBS (3)

SEVEN (7)

NINE (9) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News

Mornings. 10.00 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 10.30 Back Roads. (R) 11.05 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Miniseries: Best Interests. (Ml, R) 2.00 Parliament Question Time. 3.00 Back Roads. (PG, R) 3.30 Grand Designs Revisited. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.05 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

(PG, R)

7.30 Budget 2025: Opposition Reply. 8.00 7.30. Presented by Sarah Ferguson. 8.30 Grand Designs: 25 Years And Counting. (Ml) Celebrates GrandDesigns 25th anniversary. 9.20 Grand Designs Revisited. (PG, R) Presented by Kevin McCloud.

10.05 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)

10.35 ABC Late News. 10.50 The Business. (R) 11.10 Darby And Joan. (PGa, R) 11.55 Grand Designs Revisited. (R) 12.40 Parliament Question Time. 1.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.40 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Urban Conversion. (R) 10.00 Food Markets. (R) 11.00 Oman From Above. 12.00 WorldWatch. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir. 12.55 PBS NewsHour. 1.55 Alone Australia. (Ml, R) 3.00 Where Are You Really From? (PGa, R) 3.30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw. (R) 4.00 Every Family Has A Secret. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Fallen Angels Murder Club: Heroes And Felons. (2022, Mav) Toni Braxton. 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Finding Your Roots: In The Blood. (PGa) 8.30 Celine Dion: A Star Is Born. Looks at the life of Celine Dion. 9.35 Virdee. (Premiere) Follows a cop as he struggles with abandonment.

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 Breaking Point. (Masv) 12.00 Blinded. (MA15+a, R) 1.45 Elizabeth. (PGa, R) 3.25 Hugh’s Wild West. (R) 4.20 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Football. AFL. Round 3. Essendon v Port Adelaide.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the game. 11.00 Kick Ons. A preview of the upcoming AFL matches.

11.30 The Disappearance Of Gabby Petito. (Malv, R) An exploration of the case of Gabby Petito.

12.45 Damnation. (MA15+asv) Seth and the farmers take on the Black Legion.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

SATURDAY FATHER BROWN

ABC TV, 6.10pm

The fictional Cotswolds village of Kembleford sees its fair share of devilish activity. Luckily, Father Brown (Mark Williams, pictured) is on hand to help the police solve the multitude of murder cases on his patch. Set during the early 1950s, the affable Father is a favourite of cosy mystery fans. Season 11 begins with this episode that sees rivalries escalate to murderous heights during the 1955 “Olimpicks” – an event held by Kembleford and neighbouring village Hambleston, though not since 1952. When a Hambleston contestant is poisoned during the spinach-eating contest, Father Brown has to find someone with a grudge against the victim and is not short of candidates.

TEN (10)

Married At First Sight. (Ml, R)

Young Sheldon. (PGadlsv, R)

Pointless. (PG)

Tipping Point. (PG, R)

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 RBT. (Ml, R) Follows the activities of police units.

8.30 Emergency. (Mm, R) Doctor Scott Taylor fears a tradie has life-altering neck damage after a ladder fall.

9.30 A+E After Dark. (Mlm) Looks behind the scenes at three UK hospitals.

10.30 My Feet Are Killing Me. (Mam)

11.20 9News Late.

11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

12.40 Pointless. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6.00

Friday, March 28

(9) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 10.30 The Pacific. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Unforgotten. (Mals, R) 2.00 Grand Designs Australia. (R) 2.55 Back Roads. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Hannah Moloney health checks her worm farm.

8.30 Under The Vines. (PG) Daisy tries to bond with her future daughter-in-law, Sienna, on a trip to find her a wedding dress.

9.15 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R) A satirical news program.

9.45 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson. 10.15 Melbourne Comedy Festival Gala. (R)

12.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R)

1.00 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)

WorldWatch. 9.00 Curious Traveller. (R) 10.00 Food Markets. (PGa, R) 11.00 UAE From Above. 12.00 WorldWatch. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir. 12.55 PBS NewsHour. 1.55 Alone Australia. (Ml, R) 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw. (PG, R) 4.05 Every Family Has A Secret. (PGal, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Better Homes

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 James May: Our Man In Italy. (PGal)

8.30 Bettany Hughes’ Lost Worlds: Nabataeans. (Premiere, PG) Bettany Hughes uncovers the mysteries of the Nabataeans.

9.30 Scotland’s Scenic Railways: The Jacobite Steam Railway. (R)

10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 A Body That Works. (Ml) 12.00 Romulus. (MA15+av, R) 1.55 Elizabeth. (PGa, R) 3.40 Hugh’s Wild West. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown. A lead-up to the Friday night AFL match. 7.30 Football. AFL. Round 3. Carlton v Western Bulldogs. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews. 11.15 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.

11.45 The Americas: The Atlantic Coast. (PG, R) A look at the natural beauty of the Americas.

12.45 We Interrupt This Broadcast. (PGlv, R) Sketch comedy series. 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.

6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 DVine Living.

6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 West Coast Cops. (Premiere, PGlv) UK police officers move to Western Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: The Notebook. (2004, PGals, R) An old man reads a love story from a faded notebook to a woman with Alzheimer’s disease. Rachel McAdams, Ryan Gosling, James Garner.

11.00 MOVIE: If I Stay. (2014, Ma, R) Chloë Grace Moretz.

1.00 Let’s Eat With George. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 Sam Pang Tonight. (Mals, R) Presented by Sam Pang. 8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mlv, R) Guests include Jodie Foster, Olivia Colman, Austin Butler, Wanda Sykes and Lorraine Kelly. 10.50 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.15 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.10 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 1.35pm Hypothetical. 2.30 The Feed. 3.05 Over The Black Dot. 3.35 News. 3.40 WorldWatch. 5.40 The Fast History Of. 6.05 If You Are The One. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.30 News. 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The Man With A Penis On His Arm. 9.25 My First Threesome. 10.20 Secrets Of Playboy. 11.10 Pose. 12.15am Late Programs.

The Movie Show. 6.30 Petite Maman. (2021, PG, French) 7.50 What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. (1993, PG) 10.00 Girls Will Be Girls. (2024, M, Hindi) 12.10pm My Salinger Year. (2020, M) 2.05 RabbitProof Fence. (2002, PG) 3.45 Goddess. (2013, PG) 5.40 Cheerful Weather For The Wedding. (2012, PG) 7.30 Dirty Dancing. (1987, M) 9.25 The Perks Of Being A Wallflower. (2012) 11.20 Late Programs. SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 1.55pm Yarning Culture Through Film. 2.00 The Casketeers. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 4.05 Cities Of Gold. 4.35 Motown Magic. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.25 Black As. 5.30 Nula. 6.00 Bamay. 6.25 Carpool Koorioke. 6.35 Inside The Pack. 7.30 MOVIE: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. (1968, PG) 10.00 MOVIE: Boomerang. (1992, M) Midnight Late Programs. NITV (34)

Saturday, March 29

TV (2)

6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 6.55 Rage Closer. (R) 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 11.55 Rage Closer. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Death In Paradise. (Ma, R) 1.30 Darby And Joan. (PGa, R) 2.15 Under The Vines. (PG, R) 3.00 Extraordinary Escapes: Christmas Special. (Final, R) 3.50 A Life In Ten Pictures. (PG, R) 4.40 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 5.10 Landline. (R) 5.40 Australian Story. (R)

6.10 Father Brown. (Return, PGav) Rivalries escalate at a local athletics event.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (Ma) As the team investigates a murder, they discover a family with skeletons in the closet.

8.30 Vera. (Ma, R) DCI Vera Stanhope investigates after a young man is found dead following a collision with a car. On closer inspection, it becomes clear that this is not an accident and is more than a hit and run.

10.05 Unforgotten. (Mals, R) The team investigates Gerry Cooper. 10.50 Boat Story. (MA15+av, R) Janet and Samuel try to find a buyer for the drugs. 11.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

(3)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Incredible Homes. (PGn, R) 10.00 The World From Above. (R) 11.00 Ageless Gardens. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 World Rally-Raid Championship. Round 2. Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge. 3.00 Athletics. World Indoor Championships. Day 1. Highlights. 4.00 Heroines. 4.30 Mental As Everything. (PGal, R) 5.30 WWII War Machine. (Premiere, PGa)

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 The Wonders Of Europe: Florence Cathedral. (Return) 8.30 Blenheim: The People Behind The Palace. The Knights of Middle England arrive. 9.25 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy: Naples And The Amalfi Coast. (R) Stanley Tucci explores Italy. 10.15 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R) 11.15 All Those Things We Never Said. (Ma, R) 3.30 Icons. (PGav, R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. (Premiere) 8.10 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. 8.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.35 Speechless. 9.55 Officially Amazing Goes Bunkers. 10.25 Late Programs.

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Cheerful Weather For The Wedding. Continued. (2012, PG) 7.00 Goddess. (2013, PG) 8.55 Every Day. (2018, PG) 10.45 Shiva Baby. (2020, M) 12.10pm Stand By Me. (1986, M) 1.45 What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. (1993,

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Stakes Day and Australian Cup Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) Narrated by Grant Bowler.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Athletics. Maurie Plant Meet. 9.00 MOVIE: Apollo 13. (1995, PGal, R) Based on a true story. Three NASA astronauts, on a mission to the Moon, find their lives in danger after a potentially catastrophic explosion forces them to abandon their journey and return to Earth. Tom Hanks, Bill Paxton, Kevin Bacon. 11.50 Motorway Patrol. (PGadl) Officers deal with a cargo of cannabis. 12.20 We Interrupt This Broadcast. (PGalv, R) Sketch comedy series.

1.20 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 To Be Advised.

4.00 It’s Academic. (R)

5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)

6.00 Getaway. (PG, R) 6.30 A Current Affair. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. (PG) 12.00 Destination WA. (PG, R) 12.30 My Way. (PG, R) 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. 1.30 Hybrid Horizons. (Final) 2.00 Mr Mayor. (PGs, R) 2.30 Bondi Vet. (PGm, R) 3.30 David Attenborough’s Mammals. (PGa) 4.30 The Garden Gurus. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. (PG) 6am Morning Programs. 10.30

6.00 9News Saturday.

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. Hosted by Neale Whitaker and Andrew Winter. 8.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Madl, R) A man claims to have jumped off Brisbane’s Story Bridge and the team races against time to save his life. 10.30 Elsbeth. (PGlsv, R) An unlikeable fashion photographer is murdered. 11.30 FBI. (Mav, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power. 6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Beyond Oak Island. 2.20 Ten Year Old Tom. 2.50 The Artist’s View: A-ha. 3.20 Bamay. 3.25 News. 3.30 WorldWatch. 5.30 Over The Black Dot. 6.00 Engineering Tomorrow. 7.00 Motorcycle Racing. Australian Superbike Championship. Round 2. 10.00 Impossible Engineering. 10.55 Brady Vs Belichick: The Verdict. (Premiere) 11.45 Late Programs.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Space Invaders. (PG) A woman’s collecting has filled her small home.

8.30 MOVIE: San Andreas. (2015, Mlv, R)

A rescue helicopter pilot searches for his daughter following a massive earthquake. Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino, Alexandra Daddario.

10.45 MOVIE: Volcano. (1997, Mv, R) Tommy Lee Jones.

12.40 Bondi Vet. (PGm, R)

1.30 Hybrid Horizons. (Final, R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG) 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

Sunday, March 30

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 The World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Songs Of Praise. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 2.30 Monty Don’s French Gardens. (R) 3.30 Grand Designs: 25 Years And Counting. (PGl, R) 4.30 The Jubilee Pudding: 70 Years In The Baking. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Compass: The DJ And The Gospel Choir. (Return, PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Darby And Joan. (PGa) Joan and Jack are invited to an island resort.

8.15 Unforgotten. (Ml) The team discovers Gerry’s nationalist views.

9.05 Boat Story. (MA15+l) Janet and Samuel celebrate their newfound riches but The Tailor’s henchman is on their trail. 10.05 MOVIE: Two Hands. (1999, MA15+lv, R) Heath Ledger.

11.35 You Can’t Ask That. (Mal, R) 12.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Ask The Doctor. (PG, R) 3.30 Outback Ringer. (PG, R) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Incredible Homes. (R) 10.00 FIFA World Cup Classic Matches. 11.30 Ageless Gardens. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 12.30 PBS Washington Week. 12.55 Taekwondo. (R) 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Athletics. World Indoor C’ships. Day 2. Highlights. 4.00 Athletics. World Indoor Championships. Day 3. Highlights. 5.00 Heroines. 5.30 WWII War Machine. (PGa)

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Rebuilding Notre Dame Cathedral Pt 2. (R) Lucy Worsley revisits Notre Dame. 8.40 Notre Dame: The Renaissance Concert. Coverage of an event to celebrate the Notre-Dame Cathedral. 10.40 Windsor Castle Fire: The Untold Story. (PGa, R) 11.40 Cycling. UCI World Tour. GentWevelgem. From Belgium. Men’s race. Ypres to Wevelgem. 1.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Gent-Wevelgem. Women’s race. From Belgium. Ypres to Wevelgem. 3.40 Britain’s Great Outdoors. (R) 4.10 Bamay. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera News.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 5.10pm Tiddler. 5.35 Children’s Programs. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.10 Abbott Elementary. 9.55 Speechless. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Sunday Footy Feast. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game Show. Pre-game coverage of the match. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 3. Adelaide v North Melbourne. 6.00 Hello SA. (PG, R) 6.30 A Current Affair. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Australian Idol. (PGl)

8.40 The Hunters: Bondi Hate Murders. (Mav) Steve van Aperen and Adam Shand look at the killings suffered by the Sydney gay community from the 1970s to the 1990s.

10.10 Tabloids On Trial. (Premiere, Mal) An expose of illegal tactics of Britain’s tabloids.

11.40 Pembrokeshire

Murders: Catching The Gameshow Killer. (Mav, R)

12.40 The Bay. (Malv, R)

2.00 To Be Advised. 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6am Morning Programs. 10.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 10.30 DVine Living. 11.00 I Escaped To The Country. Noon Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Cities Of The Underworld. 3.30 Better Homes. 4.30 I Escaped To The Country. 5.30 Escape To

6.00 9News Sunday.

7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls) The couples make a big decision.

8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians.

9.40 Footy Furnace. (Mlv) A look at the latest round of the AFL.

10.40 9News Late.

11.10 The First 48: Cover Story. (Mav)

12.00 Oz Off Road TV. (PG, R)

1.00 Destination WA.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30

Drive TV: Drive Car Of The Year. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6.00 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.00 Australian Survivor. (PGl) School is back in session and the most reckless players are ready to risk it all. Presented by Jonathan LaPaglia. 8.30 Matlock. (PGa) Olympia’s dream of partnership is on the line as she and the team scramble to remove a dangerous drink from the market. 9.30 FBI. (Madv) The team races against the clock to take back control of a hijacked train that an unarmed OA and Gemma are riding. 11.30 The Sunday Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings. 6am Morning Programs. 1.40pm Jeopardy! 3.45 WorldWatch. 4.10 PBS Washington Week. 4.35 Haramain: The Train Of The Desert. 5.35 Domino Masters. 6.30 Abandoned Engineering. 7.25 Abandoned Americana. 8.15 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Volta a Catalunya. Stage 7. 10.15 Abandoned Americana. 11.10 WWE Legends. 12.45am Letterkenny. 1.45 Fringes. 2.40 Late Programs.

Morning Programs. 7.15 The Farewell. (2019, PG) 9.10 Little Nicholas’ Treasure. (2021, PG, French) 11.05 Dirty Dancing. (1987, M) 1pm The Perks Of Being A Wallflower. (2012, M) 2.55 Cheerful Weather For The Wedding. (2012, PG) 4.45 Topkapi. (1964, PG) 6.55 Children Of Heaven. (1997, PG, Farsi) 8.30 Paradise Road. (1997, M) 10.35 My Own Good. (2018, M, Italian) 12.25am Late Programs. SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Football. NTFL. Men’s. Under 18s. Darwin Buffaloes v Waratah. Replay. 2.45 Boomerang Today. 3.15 Stable: The Boxing Game. 4.15 Black As. 4.25 MOVIE: Bedevil. (1993, PG) 6.00 Queer & Here. 6.30 News. 6.40 Waterworld Africa. 7.30 Australia: An Unofficial History. 8.30 Undermined: Tales From The Kimberley. 10.10 MOVIE: Kill Bill: Vol. 1. (2003, MA15+) 12.10am Late Programs. NITV (34)

(PG, R) 2.55 Back Roads.

R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (Return) 5.25 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.10 Curious Traveller. (R) 10.10 Food Markets. (PGaw, R) 11.10 Van Gogh: The Real Story. (Premiere) 12.10 WorldWatch. 2.00 Saving Lives At Sea. (Ma, R) 3.00 Where Are You Really From? (PG, R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Lost Treasures Of Ancient Rome. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Australian Story. Presented by Leigh Sales. 8.30 Four Corners. Investigative journalism program.

9.15 Media Watch. (PG) Presented by Linton Besser.

9.35 Q+A. Presented by Patricia Karvelas.

10.35 ABC Late News. 10.50 The Business. (R) 11.10 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R) 11.40 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (R) 12.10 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 12.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.05 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Lisbon With Michael Portillo: Lisbon 3. (PG)

8.25 Pompeii: The New Dig: The Bodies. (PGa, R) Looks at an archaeological excavation in Pompeii.

9.30 24 Hours In Emergency: Everything To Me.

10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Syndrome E. (MA15+av) 12.05 The Night Manager. (MA15+v, R) 2.20 Australia Uncovered: Our African Roots. (PGa, R) 3.20 Hugh’s Wild West. (R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

7TWO (72) 6am Children’s Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 To Be Advised. 2.40 Surveillance Oz: Dashcam. (PG, R) 3.00 Beat The Chasers UK. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Australian Idol. (PGl) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.

8.30 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Ma) The 126 races to contain a toxic chlorine cloud of death unleashed by the train derailment.

9.30 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.

10.30 Suits L.A. (M)

11.30 St. Denis Medical. (PGals)

12.00 We Interrupt This Broadcast. (PGals, R) 1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 To Be Advised. 4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

Eagles v Parramatta Eels. 6.00 Dad’s Army. 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: Angel Has Fallen. (2019, MA15+) 10.50 Late Programs. 9GEM (92)

1.30pm MOVIE: Alvin And The Chipmunks: The Road Chip. (2015, PG) 3.20 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. 4.20 Young Sheldon. 5.45 MOVIE: Dr Seuss’

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls, R) 1.45 My Way. (R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG)

Tipping Point. (PG, R)

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. The remaining couples take their final vows.

9.00 Footy Classified. (Ml) Hosted by Sam McClure. 10.00 9News Late.

10.30 The Prison Confessions Of Gypsy-Rose Blanchard. (Mad)

11.30 Police After Dark. (Mlv, R)

12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 Australian Survivor. (PGl) Presented by Jonathan LaPaglia.

8.40 Sam Pang Tonight. (Mals) A weekly tonight show hosted by Sam Pang, featuring a monologue roasting the news of the week. 9.40 Taskmaster Australia. (Mls, R) Hosted by Tom Gleeson. 10.50 10’s Late News. 11.15 The Project. (R) 12.15 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings. 6am Morning Programs. 1pm Devoured. 1.55 Big Zuu Goes To Mecca. 3.05 Wine Lovers’ Guide. 3.35 WorldWatch. 5.45 The Fast History Of. 6.10 Mysteries From Above. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.30 News. 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Unidentified: Inside America’s UFO Investigation. (Premiere) 9.25 Myths: The Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity. 10.30 The Weekly Football Wrap. 11.00 Late Programs. SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 6.55 Rocket Club. 7.05 Odd Squad. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35

Tuesday, April 1

ABC (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (7) TEN (10) NINE (9)

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Australian Story. (R) 10.30 Compass. (PG, R) 11.00 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R) 11.30 Space 22. (PGa, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Call The Midwife. (PGa, R) 1.55 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R) 2.55 Back Roads. (PG, R) 3.20 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 4.55 A Bite To Eat With Alice. 5.25 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Curious Traveller. (R) 10.00 Food Markets. (PGaw, R) 11.00 Van Gogh: The Real Story. 11.55 Ky’s Story: Growing With Autism. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Saving Lives At Sea. (PGa, R) 3.05 The Weekly Football Wrap. (R) 3.35 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Lost Treasures Of Ancient Rome. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys: Hornsea To Spurn Point. (R)

filmmaker George Miller.

9.00 Finding The Archibald: Face Of The Nation. (Ml, R)

10.05 The ABC Of... (Ml, R) 10.35 ABC Late News. 10.50 The Business. (R) 11.05 Four Corners. (R) 11.55 Media Watch. (PG, R) 12.10 Q+A. (R) 1.15 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 2.00 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.40 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

8.30 Insight. Presented by Kumi Taguchi. 9.30 Dateline: Inside Spain’s Narco Submarines. Looks at the gangs using submarines to smuggle cocaine. 10.00 SBS World News Late.

10.30 Guillaume’s Paris. (R)

11.00 Snow. (Premiere, PGas)

11.55 Illegals. (Malsv, R) 1.50 Hugh’s Wild West. (R) 3.55 Inside The Modelling Agency. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 6.55 Rocket Club. 7.05 Odd Squad. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Little Lunch. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Deadly 60. 9.10 Shark With Steve Backshall. 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs.

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Cash wrestles with writer’s block.

7.30 The Americas: Mexico. (PG) A journey through Mexico.

8.30 The Hunting Party. (M)

9.30 The Agenda Setters. (R) A team of trusted and respected footy voices tackles the biggest topics in the AFL world.

10.30 The Irrational. (Mav) The head of Rose’s firm arrives from Europe.

11.30 St. Denis Medical. (PGal) 12.00 MOVIE: House Of Chains. (2022, MA15+av, R) Mena Suvari. 2.00 To Be Advised. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Travel Guides. (PGl, R) The travel guides head to Peru. 8.40 To Be Advised.

9.40 Footy Classified. (Ml) Footy experts tackle the AFL’s big issues.

10.40 9News Late.

11.10 The Equalizer. (Mav, R)

12.00 Next Stop. (PGd)

12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Building Ideas. (PG)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 To Be Advised.

8.40 NCIS. After a navy lieutenant’s death reveals ties to Sawyer, Torres and Knight uncover a murder linked to a wealthy family. Parker discovers a connection between his mother’s death and Lily. 10.30 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.55 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 11.50 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings. 6am Morning

Programs. 1.35pm The Story Of. 2.05 One Armed Chef. 3.00 Bamay. 3.30 Uncovering Incels. 3.40 News. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.45 The Fast History Of. 6.10 Mysteries From Above. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.30 News. 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 James May: Our Man In... Japan. (Premiere) 10.25 The Great Amazon Heist. 11.25 Taskmaster. 12.20am Late Programs.

Little Nicholas’ Treasure. Continued. (2021, PG, French) 7.50 Topkapi. (1964, PG) 10.00 Paradise Road. (1997, M) 12.05pm Within Sand. (2022, M, Arabic) 2.15 Children Of Heaven. (1997, PG, Farsi) 3.50 Dafne. (2019, PG, Italian) 5.35 Belle. (2013, PG) 7.30 The Grump: In Search Of An Escort. (2022, M, Finnish) 9.35 My Neighbor Adolf. (2022) 11.25 Late Programs.

Wednesday, April 2

Family. (PG, R)

A Bite To Eat With Alice.

Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Hard Quiz. (PG) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.

8.30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG) A satirical news program. 9.00 Melbourne Comedy Festival Allstars Supershow. Hosted by Michael Hing.

11.05 ABC Late News.

11.20 The Business. (R) 11.35 Aunty Donna’s Coffee Cafe. (Ml, R) 12.30 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 1.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 6.55 Rocket Club. 7.05 Odd Squad. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.10 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.45 Abbott Elementary. 9.25 Doctor Who. 11.00 Late Programs.

WorldWatch. 9.00 Curious Traveller. (PG, R) 10.00 Food Markets. (PGaw, R) 11.00 Van Gogh: The Real Story. 11.55 Ky’s Story: My Sister Jorja. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw. (R) 4.00 Highway To The Sky. (PG) 4.10 Lost Treasures Of Ancient Rome. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Alone Australia. (Ml) A catch staves off hunger for one survivalist.

8.40 Eurostar: Minding The Gap. Looks at the Eurostar, which has transported passengers between Paris and London for 30 years.

9.40 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+v) The SAS returns to Britain.

10.45 SBS World News Late. 11.15 Blackwater. (Malsv) 12.20 My Brilliant Friend. (Malv, R) 3.50 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31)

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Tourism. Continued. (2017) 6.25 Belle. (2013, PG) 8.20 Selkie. (2000, PG) 9.55 Dafne. (2019, PG, Italian) 11.40 Hajjan. (2023, M, Arabic) 2pm The Movie Show. 2.35 The Kids Are Alright. (2021, PG, Spanish) 4.15 Viajeros. (2022, PG, Spanish) 5.50 Eat Wheaties! (2020, PG) 7.30 Made In America.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: The Good Sister. (2014, Mav) Sonya Walger. 3.00 Beat The Chasers UK. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG) Hosted by Lee Mack.

8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.

9.30 Unfiltered. (PGal) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.

10.00 Lawrence Mooney: Embracing Your Limitations. (MA15+s, R) A performance by Lawrence Mooney.

11.30 Autopsy USA. (Mad)

12.30 Covert Affairs. (Mv, R)

1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 To Be Advised.

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: The Wrong Cheerleader Coach. (2017, Ma) 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon.

Tipping Point Australia. (PG)

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 The Hundred With Andy Lee. (Return, PGs)

8.30 The Grand Tour. (Return, MA15+l) The boys head to Stuttgart, Germany.

9.50 Wild Cards. (Mv)

10.50 9News Late.

11.20 The Equalizer. (MA15+v, R)

12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.05 Hello SA. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 To Be Advised.

8.40 Elsbeth. (Return, Mv) Elsbeth suspects an obsessed opera lover was driven to murder when a finance executive is found stabbed to death.

9.40 NCIS: Origins. (Mav) Gibbs prepares for his first Christmas without his family.

10.30 10’s Late News. 10.55 The Project. (R) 12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings. 6am Morning Programs. 2.15pm Queer Sports. 3.10 The Weekly Football Wrap. 3.40 News. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.40 History’s Crazy Rich Ancients. 6.05 Are You Autistic? 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.30 NITV News Update. 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: Goodfellas. (1990, MA15+) 11.15 MOVIE: The Handmaid’s Tale. (1990, MA15+) 1.10am Letterkenny. 2.20 Late Programs.

Push to keep fisheries officers on the bay

Rees brendan@mpnews.com.au

MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire

councillors have raised the alarm over recent changes proposed by the Victorian Fisheries Authority, warning fewer officers would lead to a “much higher risk” of illegal fishing and habitat destruction.

Cr Max Patton successfully moved a motion at the council’s March 11 meeting expressing concerns over the VFA’s restructure which would see a significant reduction in fisheries officer positions and enforcement capacity across Victoria, including Port Phillip Bay.

In February the VFA proposed to close its Mornington station and replace it with a “community office” in Carrum (Fisheries office closure sparks concern of weak compliance, The News 3/3/25).

Offices also proposed to be closed include Cowes, Braeside, Altona North and Queenscliff, resulting in a staffing reduction from 192 to 157.

Only nine engagement officers would serve the whole Port Phillip and Western Port Bay areas while it’s also understood the changes would see 73 fisheries officers replaced by 36 engagement officers.

The Community and Public Sector Union (CSPU) has confirmed the proposed staff reduction, however the VFA has not made a formal announcement yet. Instead, a spokesperson said in a statement its future was “focused on education and engaging

proposed changes. Picture: Gary Sissons.

the community with fishing, and some workforce changes have been proposed to reflect this”.

“Our workforce will focus on keeping compliance levels high, and on major fishing crime, while working closely with the community to provide them the education and resources they need to fish responsibly,” the spokesperson said.

“We’re confident our new operating model means fishing in Victoria will be as good into the future as it is today.”

But Patton voiced his opposition to the plan, noting the peninsula’s bays, which covered 192km of the coastline, were a critical asset for the region, and home to a variety of marine life including the Burrunan dolphin, Weedy Seadragon, and Giant Spider Crabs.

“All these changes are massive and with fewer officers, I believe there’s a much higher risk of illegal fishing, habitat destruction and non-compliance with catch limits throughout both of our bays in Western Port and

Port Phillip Bay,” he said, adding it “would undermine years of progress in protecting marine ecosystems”.

“Our bays play a critical role in marine biodiversity protection, ensuring sustainable fishing practices from all recreational fishes and maintaining compliance with marine safety regulations and that includes the jet ski operator.

“A cut in enforcement personnel could weaken the ability to monitor high-risk areas, leaving local beaches and waterways even more vulnerable

to unsafe behaviour.”

He said any changes needed to be carefully considered to protect marine biodiversity and prevent environmental damage.

“Given the potential risks to marine life, recreational fishing, tourism and public safety, I think major changes to the VFA should not be made without consulting coastal communities, environment, environmental groups and other stakeholders,” he said.

Cr Kate Roper agreed, saying it was “just staggering” that the VFA were looking to reduce its enforcement officers “when we really need more”.

“This is really, really devastating news,” she said, which she believed was “another cost cutting exercise by the state government”.

“Our environment is precious here. Our tourists come here to see our beautiful environment and with the jet ski problems we’ve had for years, we’ve tried to do a few things to try and mitigate some of those problems.”

Roper said she was highly supportive of the motion, which she hoped would “really push the importance of keeping these staff numbers up and even increasing”.

Councillors unanimously supported the motion which will see the shire write a letter to the Outdoor Recreation Minister and the VFA’s CEO outlining their concerns while calling for extensive community and stakeholder consultation before implementing any significant reforms.

Council drops plan to charge residents for road sealing in estuary protection plan

Brendan Rees brendan@mpnews.com.au

A CONTENTIOUS proposal by Mornington Peninsula Shire to charge locals for road sealing to address sedimentation runoff into the Balcombe Creek and Estuary has been dropped following overwhelming opposition.

The shire had considered a 50-50 funding proposal by applying a “Mt Martha special charge scheme” to property owners near the estuary to help cover the costs of sealing dirt roads including Mark St, Gregory St and Matthew St (known as the Augusta Street group of roads) to reduce sedimentation in the Balcombe Estuary.

According to a shire report, silt runoff from the unsealed roads has been “one of three leading contributors of silt to the creek” catchment area.

“A proposed project to seal the residential roads in this group and construct appropriate drainage including water sensitive urban design (WSUD treatments) is expected to significantly reduce creek sedimentation caused by these roads,” it said.

The report also noted that sediment deposition had occurred over the last 40 years and was a “key threat, with potential impacts including high accretion rates, turbid waters and associated changes to estuarine ecosystems such as loss of seagrass, food and habitat for fish and macrofauna”.

But in a 7-3 vote, councillors at their 11 March meeting ditched the proposal and instead supported a council officer’s recommendation to investigate alternative options to reduce sedimentation into Balcombe Estuary after a council survey of 50 residents found 74 per cent opposed the scheme.

Despite the opposition, the shire believed there was still “strong justification for the project to proceed”, but construction costs had “increased to a point where other sediment reduction options should be considered in greater detail”.

Mayor Cr Anthony Marsh, whose Briars Ward covers Mt Martha, did not support the scheme, saying the estimated cost of $9m to seal about 700 metres of roads was an “obscene” amount of money.

“I think we have to look for cheaper options that can address the problem or at least look at the other locations where the buildup of silt has been noted by others,” he said at the meet-

ing.

While he was sympathetic to the residents that supported the proposal, he believed, “It’s just not a use of public money I could ever justify to the ratepayer broadly”.

“We have some pretty significant problems at the moment; we have a financial sustainability cliff that we’re walking towards and spending $9m for 700 metres of road, I just think is obscene.”

But Cr David Gill disagreed, saying a charge scheme would be “our last chance to avoid what I see as an environmental disaster”.

“We’re talking about the last estuary that’s in any real condition on the

Mornington Peninsula. All the rest have gone because of the thinking of residents or councils in the past –they’ve disappeared, or they’re just drains,” he said.

While Gill said he would usually oppose “forcing onto ratepayers” any costs, as well as maintaining dirt roads to support the character of an area, he believed in this case it was a “poor outcome”.

“You’ll still have the gravel and the dirt filling up everything, filtering down and putting sediment into the estuary - this is going to blow up.”

Deputy mayor Cr Paul Pingiaro acknowledged while some drainage issues may need fixing, he was happy

BALCOMBE Estuary Reserves Group Mt Martha committee member Peter McMahon says action needs to be taken to reduce sedimentation.

Picture: Gary Sissons

to scrap the charge to residents.

“Implementing such a financial burden on our residents and ratepayers at this time isn’t something that we should be doing as a council... and I’m very glad that the officer’s recommendation points to looking for a cheaper solution to this problem” said Pingiaro.

Peter McMahon, committee-member of the Balcombe Estuary Reserves Group Mt Martha, said they were concerned about the increased level of sedimentation flowing into the estuary and the resulting detrimental environmental and ecological damage to the 73-hectare reserve.

But while he said the group would like to see the sealing of selected roads adjoining the creek and estuary reserves, McMahon acknowledged that “quite a significant cost” had been proposed for residents and was therefore not critical of anyone for having not supported the current proposal.

“The shire has the independent reports to suggest they should be looking at making a greater contribution if need be and offering the residents a suitable solution,” he said.

“When does the environment start to take more precedence than it does currently? You can talk about it and say how important it is, and this is why we love the peninsula, but when is it the right degree, in our opinion, of understanding, support and action.”

Brendan

CR Max Patton, pictured at Camerons Bight Jetty, is concerned about Victoria Fisheries Authority’s

Cue the outrage in the Letters section

Do you want to know how much of a threat Ben Smith is to the entrenched two party system?

Just count the letters in The News from desperate party hacks from both sides trying to discredit him.

It is the same every week. Who is Ben Smith? It has been well explained that he was CEO at Mornington Community Support Centre where his organisation was feeding the needy and housing the homeless. “Doing” rather than what the major parties do – “talking about doing”.

And where is his money coming from? He has explained that over and over again. Climate 200? Yes, but mostly from grassroots supporters who see him as the real deal (refer to the above paragraph re “doing”).

C’mon people. It is obvious the Mornington Peninsula is treated with disdain by the major parties. One tenth of the funding per capita compared with Geelong? It is because the Liberals don’t spend here as they think they can’t loose it, and Labor don’t spend here because they think they can’t win it.

Over the last election cycle the Liberals and Labor are now united on one thing. They must move heaven and earth not to lose their duopoly on power.

Cue the manufactured outrage from the party hacks....

Maria Simpson, Baxter

Who is Ben Smith?

Who is Ben Smith? What is his professional background? Who pays his extraordinary advertising campaign? Does he use his own money or is it an organisation or a private benefactor. Whoever is backing him does so with the intention to influence political action and therefore the public needs to know who is behind him.

What does Ben Smith really stand for as an Independent?

Apart from motherhood statements about renewable energy and climate change there is no concrete action plan that takes into account feasibility and financial aspects.

Reiner Scheibe, Mornington

Ben Smith

Having read all the lavish endorsements of Flinders candidate, Ben Smith by various correspondents in The News, surely JC should move on. Ben is obviously the Messiah. Denis Mason, Sorrento

Voting with Greens?

It has been established that Ben Smith, Independent candidate for Flinders, is actually funded by the Climate 200 group, funded by wealthy individuals including Simon Holmes à Court.

This Teal group mostly (77%) sides with the Greens as per this facts website: www.tealsrevealed.com

So is Ben truly independent? Voters need more facts on who is funding his campaign and who he will support (or directed to support) on important legislation.

As previously shown, voting for Teals is actually mostly a vote for the Greens. Rowan Clark, Mount Eliza

Editor’s note: the “facts” website referred to in the above letter contains, at the bottom of the website, “Authorised by A. Hirst, Liberal, Canberra”.

Climate

After attending Ben Smith’s talk at Somers it is not hard to understand the positive response he is receiving.

He is addressing matters that are important to

the people of the Mornington Peninsula. One in particular, the Rosebud Hospital is dear to my heart having been the venue my wife was taken to for a life saving intervention in a health crisis. There are many other worthwhile projects that Ben is focusing on.

My one concern is his dedication to net zero by 2050 using only renewables.

In my letter (Nuclear option? Letters 11/3/25) I asked Ben to look at two sites on YouTube dealing with facts as they relate to costs both financially and environmentally to our country in this quest for net zero.

As yet Ben has not responded, however there has been several responses from your readers, mostly disagreeing with me. To reply to all these is beyond the scope of this letter but it would appear that the general consensus is to agree with what the government and government funded authorities tell us.

One reply that I will address is from Ray Peck of Hawthorn who is a long time contributor to your Letters

Mr Peck surely you can do better than this. Your reason for rejecting Chris Uhlmann’s material is that he works for the Murdoch Press. No mention of any false or misleading statements, just that he works for the Murdoch Press, there fore it must be all lies.

Gerard Holland’s talk was given at an ARC meeting, again no mention of false or misleading statements, he spoke at an ARC meeting, therefore it must be all lies. How pathetic.

Ben I still hope you will give your opinion on the above.

Keith Davis, Somers

Different standard

Marilyn Merrifield’s recent letter criticizes Ben Smith for using campaign funds from his supporters to further his independent candidacy for Flinders (Ad waste, Letters 18/3/25). She suggests these funds should instead be directed towards short-term accommodation at The Ranch, which is in the process of closing.

As someone who works with the homeless, Merrifield should recognize that short-term solutions like this don’t address the root causes of homelessness. The issue stems from poor housing policy and tax settings, which require a long-term, systemic responses. We need a representative who truly understands the complexity of these challenges and is committed to enacting lasting change.

It’s also important for readers to know that Ben Smith is currently on leave from his role as CEO of the Mornington Community Support Service — the same organization that played a key role in keeping The Ranch open for crisis support accommodation. One of Ben’s main reasons for running as an independent is to improve accommodation options for the homeless, a commitment clearly outlined on his website.

It’s curious that Merrifield doesn’t hold the Liberal and Labor candidates to the same standard. Neither has been criticized for not diverting their campaign funds to short-term accommodation. Additionally, a look at ‘They Vote For You’ website reveals that the current Flinders MP has consistently voted against affordable housing initiatives and against federal action on public housing.

Ben Smith’s campaign is rooted in real solutions for homelessness — solutions that go beyond temporary fixes and address the deep systemic issues we face.

Debbie de Laps, Rye I donate to Climate 200 In response to Keith Davis’ letter (What is independent?, Letters 18/3/25), I’m a proud donor to Climate 200. I know many other people who live on the peninsula who are too.

Verse for the ‘The Parties’

For goodness sake, don’t vote Independent.

We have a two party system, we have to defend it.

The rich from both sides, we must hold the power.

We’re under attack at this critical hour.

At stake is our very way of life.

The helicopters, the polo, they’ll all be in strife.

How will hospitality survive without corporate lunches?

Labor and Libs, we must pull out all the punches!

We must work together, have a planning retreat.

Let’s head to Sorrento, to a clifftop, and meet.

Labor bring caviar, Libs bring champagne.

We’ll make up a plan, and start a campaign.

The time has come to put our differences aside.

The Red and the Blue working together with pride.

We’ll plan our way forward, and get out of this mess, and send Smith back to looking after the homeless.

Chris Jenkins, Tyabb

Data shows there are hundreds of us in fact. People should be clear that it’s a crowdfunding organisation backing candidates who want real action on climate change.

They only back candidates who are found by their community (tick for me) and who are for climate action (also tick).

Ben Smith, the independent candidate, has been upfront about his support from Climate 200 (aka people like me) and about his climate policies. Doesn’t seem like a big “gotcha” moment. It’s the smart way forward if we want to protect this beautiful place that we live in, and rely on the infinite natural resources we have.

The Libs and Labor’s pockets run deep with the cash of coal and gas companies. They would never support a transition towards renewables even if experts, economists, the whole world was telling them it was the smart thing to do.

Craig Fern, Sorrento

Your voice

Why is it one of the only things Labor and the Coalition are in total agreement about is the need to keep elected independent members out of Canberra?

The two-party message is that a government that must rely on the cross-bench will deal with nothing but chaos and instability.

The truth however is very different. A government that must rely on independent members of parliament who have no party allegiance and who are there to represent the interests of the community that elected them will be a better government. Good things will happen!

Independent MPs operate with integrity and accountability, representing the people who elected them (they would simply be a one hit wonder if they do otherwise) and hold others to account also.

Visit Climate 200’s www.indiewins.com.au to see exactly what the current elected independent members of parliament have helped deliver in the past term alone, along with a list of issues they continue to fight for.

These days Canberra seems to be preoccupied with either negativity or reluctance to do anything... with lots of self-interest thrown into the mix.

Compare this with an independent member who fights for the issues identified by the community they represent. In Canberra they work with the government of the day, while always ensuring those issues are being considered, included and/or at least not further harmed in all considerations.

Peta Watson, Crib Point

A better option

It is extraordinary that a single independent candidate can produce a plan to assist the community and fight climate change at the same time (Smith announces plan to take on the energy giants and lower costs, The News 18/3/25).

It is extraordinary when compared to what the major parties have come up with despite

their huge physical and financial resources.

Dutton has produced a half-baked nuclear plan that is largely uncosted, so toxic that big business won’t go near it, and won’t provide any energy for at least 15 years whilst costing nearly $600 billion.

Labor on the other hand has been found wanting as it has been unable to find the courage to tackle the energy giants and force them to serve Australia and not their largely foreign owners.

It is hard to see Labor changing track or the Coalition filled with the same failed politicians as in their last three terms doing any better. Electing an independent like Ben Smith would seem a better option as independents are not beholden to a party machine they are beholden to their electorate.

Ross Hudson, Mount Martha

Flinders no long ‘safe’

The Coalition have announced $5m for the Mornington to Moorooduc Trail (The Coalition will deliver $5 million for the Mornington to Moorooduc Trail, The News 18/3/25).

Independent candidate Ben Smith has therefore already won something for the Peninsula before a vote has been placed.

That’s the value of a strong independent challenger, even if they don’t win the election, they remind the major parties that they can’t take the seat or the community for granted.

Flinders deserves more funding and a voice for the people in the federal parliament.

Amy Hiller, Kew

Power price pain

Power prices are rising again? It’s just getting too much for me. Where is the long term plan from Liberal or Labor?

They’ve been promising relief for years, but have they actually delivered? Meanwhile, energy giants rake in massive profits while everyday households and businesses struggle to keep up with costs.

It’s no surprise as both major parties are deep in the pockets of the big energy companies. We need a serious, long-term plan to take on these huge issues.

A local candidate backing solar and battery systems for households and businesses is exactly the kind of leadership we need to lower bills and keep the lights on during blackouts.

I just read “Smith announces plan to take on energy giants and lower costs” (The News 18/3/2025), and Rebecca Graley’s experience with business disruptions during storms and blackouts really hit home for me.

Our community needs better protection and affordable energy.

Kim Robbins, Safety Beach

It’s the ‘vibe’

I haven’t been particularly active in the community but I just wanted to say, as a young local who’s been pretty disenfranchised by politics since I’ve started voting, Ben Smith seems like the real deal.

I’ve had a good chat with him, and he gets

what young people are going through.

I’m getting involved with his campaign and bringing my mates to his Ben’s launch on Sunday to show my support.

This is about our future. If you’re sick of being taken for granted, and like me - feel like you’ve had no voice in politics, get involved.

The campaign launch is a good place to start. The vibes will be immaculate!

Guy Taylor, Mt Eliza

Candidate’s forum

Thanks to the shire for organising the candidate’s forum last Thursday (20 March).

The answers given by candidates to some questions was quite illuminating.

However there were no questions on tax, foreign affairs, or defence. All of these are federal issues.

Policies in these areas are of critical importance in the coming election. They should have been addressed ahead of some of the subjects where there was crossover with state responsibilities. Perhaps another Forum could tackle these issues.

Robb Hampson, Sorrento

Reform needed on gifts

Dale Stohr (Pollie Gifts, Letters 18/3/25) hits the nail on the head – corporate influence is everywhere in politics. When MPs accept gifts and hospitality from big corporations, it’s no surprise those same companies end up benefiting from their decisions.

Zoe McKenzie shamelessly spruiking ExxonMobil’s power station after enjoying their corporate hospitality is just one example. Sportsbet handing out grand final tickets, then getting a special mention in Parliament, is another.

Labor and Liberal had the chance to clean this up and ban corporate donations, but they won’t bite the hand that feeds them. Until we get real political reform, everyday people will keep losing out to big business - and don’t be fooled, we’re the ones who will lose out.

Josh Reinecker, Rosebud

The ‘Donkey’ vote

Let’s face it, When voting for a political candidate with a political party you are not voting for a person who can exercise their morals, ethics, or community input, you are voting for a political donkey. You are voting for the party agenda, not the person, no matter how nice they are or their personal beliefs. They’re told how to vote, and they do as they’re told. Step out of line, and there are serious consequences. Like it or not, when voting for The Greens, Labor or the Coalition it is always a donkey vote.

So then why do we need them to get huge salaries and posh accommodation and benefits when a real donkey can do their job and save us a bundle of money.

We might as well replace them with actual donkeys and save a fortune. Just give them first names – Sheila Donkey, Esteban Donkey, Nigel Donkey – elect them, send them to parliament, and let them elect their herd leader who they can call Jackass.

Joe Lenzo, Saftey Beach

Fire risk

Nice cozy fire now that the weather’s cooling, anyone? Fireplace or fire pit but no wood?

No worries! Every kind of dry wood you need you will find lying around in Hillview Reserve Dromana.

Whole trees lying where they fell, huge and small branches, even piles of crispy kindling, just waiting for you and your trusty chainsaw.

The shire obviously doesn’t want it and there is plenty of habitat without it. But be quick, or a careless cigarette or lightning strike might get there first and demolish it all, perhaps swallowing a few adjacent houses on its way.

Luckily on Boxing Day one or two fire trucks were enough to save this precious bounty for you. But you might not be so lucky next time!

Paula Polson, Dromana

Free green waste

This weekend, March 28, 29 and 30 is (if you delve into its website) Mornington Peninsula Shire Council’s free green waste weekend.

These events are very rare and have a tendency to fly by without us knowing they are happening.

Fred Wild, Rye

Road blocks?

Recently, we travelled along the roads and highways across NSW and the ACT, paying close attention to their conditions. The comparison was clear—Victorian roads are a disgrace. We deserve better.

The good news is that roadworks that began in 2024 will continue until 2029 (Council invests millions more in shire roads, The News 18/3/25). However, I now question the necessity of a roundabout at the Truemans Road and Broadway intersection.

Rye and Tootgarook already have more than enough roundabouts and road humps to last a lifetime. Why burden Truemans Road with yet another obstacle?

Let’s hope other roadworks are carried out properly – planned, prioritised, and, most importantly, done right this time.

Anne Kruger, Rye

State issues?

The Liberal candidate for Dunkley Nathan Conroy, in his election material, says that he was raised in government housing in Ireland but he does not say that he opposes government housing in the electorate of Dunkley.

He also opposes rooming houses and has told me that they are everywhere in Frankston and have serious mentally ill people living in them who do not get appropriate psychiatric services and paying huge rents whist rooming houses are exempt from the recent land tax payments.

He also says that the rooming houses have criminals which have been released from prison such as sex offenders and individuals who were imprisoned for serious crimes.

In your article (Candidates nominate for looming election, The News 18/3/25) Rob Thurley states he wants the coastal waters protected from developers right around Australia which means that there will be a need for a referendum to give powers for planning to the

Support LOCAL

federal government.

It is noticed that he lives in the Kananook Creek area where residents including himself is against development in Frankston when Australia has a housing crisis.

It is obvious that Rob Thurley has a pecuniary interest in opposing developments in Frankston and around Australia.

What are his election policies on the housing shortage, cost of living and the out of control crime rate in Frankston and Australia?

He seems to be wanting to push state issues instead of federal issues such as medicare and more defence spending and the cost of living crisis and housing crisis ?

Russell Morse, Karingal

Meals/wheels?

Pensioners: I suspected this when they cancelled our handyman services.

This time clever, a friendly colourful expensive survey for Meals on Wheels, sprinkled with a whiff of concern for effect and added by half a reason, the hidden other half likely our demise or at best more expensive meals from as yet an unknown source.

Asking for our opinions, to the WPB? Am I sounding sarcastic? Time will tell.

Cliff Ellen, Rye

100 YEARS AGO THIS WEEK...

“Standard” to be enlarged to eight pages - Published on Friday only

Compiled by Cameron McCullough

AN important announcement appears elsewhere in this issue to the effect that after Wednesday next (April 1, 1925) “The Standard” will be enlarged to eight pages, and published on Fridays (only).

In short, the 1st of April will constitute the final Wednesday’s edition of this old-established journal – the reputed and distinctive local paper of the town and district.

Advertisers are advised to note that matter intended for insertion each Friday should reach this office not later than Thursday evening.

Late advertisement will be accepted on Friday mornings up to 10 o’clock. After that hour insertion cannot be guaranteed.

Correspondents and other contributors, are requested to forward “copy” early each week. ***

Frankston Returned Soldiers V. Langwarrin.

Members of the Frankston branch of returned soldiers journeyed to Langwarrin last Saturday to indulge in a game of cricket with the local team, and although the weather conditions were not the best for cricket, still the match proved a very enjoyable one for all who took part in it, and owing to the large number of players present wishing to participate in the game the captains agreed to bat 14 men a side.

The Diggers batted first and made the respectable score of 58. Ramsdale was their mainstay and played an attractive innings for 26 and at one stage of the game he and H. Golds looked like making a stand when a fast ball from H. Ridout scattered Harry’s

stumps and a collapse then set in.

Coster, in trying to lift Captain Simcock out of the ground, mishit and skied the ball and was well caught by E. Upton.

Magnus Stevens and Montague were the only other batsmen to perform well.

T. Barrett made some nice strokes but failed to score and altogether seven “ducks” were recorded and Mark Peters had the pleasure of getting a big haul of cheap poultry from his brother Diggers.

In the bowling Ramsdale and H. Golds each secured two wickets while T. Barrett, who kept a good length, Holman, Dennett and E. Barrett each had the pleasure of getting a victim.

James bowled splendidly for two overs but after that he tired and found it difficult to keep the ball on the pitch.

In the fielding department Barrett Bros. and Dennett were the star performers, while H. Golds was responsible for a fine catch.

Holman stopped several hard drives in the slips but had bad luck in holding catches.

Bettles fielded well for a while but towards the finish got sleepy and once the ball nearly caught him while Coster performed well behind the wickets.

After the match the Langwarrin ladies provided afternoon tea for the visitors.

***

Elderly man falls off railway truck

While an elderly man, named George Paul, was engaged in unloading a truck of oats at the railway siding, Langwarrin, on Wednesday afternoon last, and was in the act of pulling one of the bags off, he, ac-

cidentally, slipped and fell heavily to the ground.

Naturally, he sustained a severe shock, and was badly shaken.

***

Death of Mrs Angel

The sudden death of Mrs. Angel, a brief report of which sad event appeared in last Friday’s issue, occurred just after the departure of the train from Melbourne.

It is of local interest to record that the late Mrs. A. H. Angel was the third daughter of Mrs. Annie Cameron, and the late Mr. John Cameron. Mr. Cameron, who settled in Frankston at the latter end of 1871, was well-known and highly respected throughout the district.

Mrs. Angel’s two brothers, Mr. Hugh and Mr. J. A. Cameron, are also prominent and highly respected residents of Frankston.

***

A Successful Sale. Brisk business at “Haselmere.”

Under the expert hammer of Mr. W. P. Mason, the well-known auctioneer, of Bay street, Frankston, a most successful sale of household furniture and effects was conducted at “Haselmere,” Wells Street, the fine residence of Mr. Lind, on Monday afternoon last.

There was a large attendance of buyers, and, throughout, business was brisk. £1350 was bid for the house itself, but the reserve price was not reached.

***

Hastings Football Club. Euchre party and dance

On Saturday night, April 4, a euchre party and dance will be held in the Public Hall, Hastings, in aid of the

above club.

Good prizes will be offered for the euchre, while “trippers of the light fantastic” may be assured that the floor and music will be up to the usual standard.

***

Frankston Football Club. Forthcoming Annual Meeting.

Special attention is directed to an advertisement elsewhere in today’s issue, which announces that the annual meeting of the above club will be held in the Mechanics’ Institute on Monday night next, commencing at 8 o’clock.

The business tabulated is of an important nature, and all interested in the great national game of football are requested to muster in strong force.

Mr. R. A. Coxall, the popular honorary secretary, informed us on Monday last that he has no intention of seeking re-election, a regrettable fact to record; also, it is understood several members of the present committee have resolved to follow suit.

Consequently, a large attendance is imperative in more ways than one.

Hence, ye footers, roll up on Monday evening, the 30th inst.

*** Personal.

Senior-Constable Elliott, chief of the Frankston police force, who visited Ballarat last week, has returned to duty.

Mr. and Mrs. L. F. Davis, of the well-known Frankston Pharmacy, Playne street, who had been away on a holiday trip to Adelaide, returned home on Saturday last. They travelled via Mt. Gambler, through beautiful scenery, in their fine Buick car, covering a distance of 1700 miles, without

mishap.

The Rev. A. E. Wellard, of the Frankston Methodist Church, is being transferred to Warragul. He and Mrs. Wellard, who have made many friends while residing in our midst, will, we understand, be leaving for that town shortly.

Their departure will be much regretted for both the Rev. Mr. Wellard and his wife have won the high esteem of all with whom they have come in contact.

We join in wishing them every success in their new sphere.

The numerous friends of Mr. W. Wilson Young, who, recently, underwent a painful, but successful operation for his eyes, at the Alfred Hospital, and of which institution he is still a patient, will be pleased to learn that he is making good progress towards recovery.

Mr. Young senr., is a highly-esteemed citizen of Frankston, and his temporary absence from the sphere of his daily activities has been felt in more than one quarter.

As the tried and experienced secretary of the Frankston Sports’ Club, he has always been extremely popular, and in this, and other directions besides, his services have proved invaluable.

Moreover, as a newspaper man of many years’ standing, Mr. Wilson Young has seen the rapid development of modern journalism, and, probably, watched with every degree of interest the up-to-date methods adopted in the present day rush of events by professional members of the craft.

***

From the pages of the Frankston and Somerville Standard, 23 & 27 Mar 1925

THE BLACK BLUES BROTHERS

The Black Blues Brothers is not just a show it’s an international phenomenon.

feats that will leave you breathless.

“A jaw-dropping spectacle of athleticism and rhythm.” - Theatre Weekly.

“The most fun you will have in a theatre this year. A riot of energy, soul, and skill.”The Reviews Hub

“Slick, stunning, and utterly unmissable”Broadway World

Direct from Kenya, these five world-class acrobats all graduates of the Bomas of Kenya Acrobatic School, renowned for producing Africa’s finest cirque talent have wowed audiences from the Moulin Rouge to a Royal Command Performance for King Charles, and even delivered a special show for Pope Francis at the Vatican.

Now, they’re ready to unleash their highoctane, rhythm-fuelled celebration of soul, circus, and classic comedy. Dressed to kill in sharp suits, skinny ties, and trademark sunglasses, the brothers transform the iconic Blues Brothers soundtrack into a jawdropping spectacle of human pyramids, firejuggling, gravity-defying leaps, and acrobatic

With hits like Soul Man, Think, and Jailhouse Rock, The Black Blues Brothers is a joyous, family-friendly spectacular and part concert, part circus, all heart that will have audiences of all ages on their feet and cheering for more.

The Black Blues Brothers will be performing at the Frankston Arts Centre Monday April 14 at 9.30pm. Book at thefac.com.au or phone 9784 1060.

MOSAICO ERRANTE

PUZZLE ZONE

ACROSS

1. Covered-in canoes

5. Spiders’ traps

7. Make on loom

8. Pip 9. Musical, My Fair ... 10. Hormone organ

11. Drives forward

13. Freezes, ... over

14. Vehicle depot

18. Absorb (food)

21. Tiny landmass

22. Spiritualist’s meeting

24. Wooden post

25. Brave man

26. Bee nest

27. Small insect

28. Present

Touching with lips

Confuse

Takes large swallow

Pillaged

Fusing (metal)

Financial estimates

12. Ship’s diary 15. Harsh 16. Phenomenal

Chores 19. Rage 20. Wavers (on edge)

22. Genders

23. Detest

29. Spiral nails DOWN

scoreboard

Red Hill and Pines set for Grand Final showdown

By Brodie Cowburn

PROVINCIAL

RED Hill have beaten Langwarrin in a huge upset to book their spot in this weekend’s Grand Final.

Langwarrin entered the two-day clash on Saturday in first place. Red Hill qualified for finals in fourth, a fair way back from the ladder leaders.

Red Hill batted on Saturday, and put a good total on the board. They scored 212 runs from their 80 overs - Simon Dart top scored with 72.

Langwarrin struggled with the bat on Sunday. A few of their top order batters made good starts, but couldn’t capitalise.

Langwarrin’s Brodie Matthews and Aaron Bardwell were each dismissed for one, and Trav Campbell was caught out for a duck. A late knock of 46 from 106 by number eight batter Taylor Smith kept Langwarrin in the game, but his efforts proved too little, too late.

Langwarrin was bowled out for 179 after 68 overs, sealing a famous win for Red Hill.

Red Hill will play Pines in a two-day Grand Final this weekend. Pines secured their spot in the big dance with a 30-run win over Dromana.

PENINSULA

ROSEBUD dominated Long Island last weekend in a one-sided semi-final clash.

Olympic Park hosted the clash across Saturday and Sunday. Rosebud came into the game with just one loss on their record this season, and were considered

heavy favourites.

Long Island batted first on Saturday.

Michael Burke was top-scorer with a patient 76 from 204 deliveries, but he didn’t get much help from his teammates.

Long Island was bowled out for 148 runs. Rosebud reached that target without much trouble on day two.

Rosebud wrapped up an eight-wicket win after 50 overs. Will Jewell and Liam Collett guided their side over the line - Jewell top-scored with 65 from 148 deliveries.

Mornington won their semi-final match against Mt Eliza at Alexandra

Park last weekend. The Bulldogs defended their day one total of 167 to claim their Grand Final spot.

DISTRICT

BONEO narrowly beat the ladder-leading Carrum Downs to claim their spot in the District division Grand Final last weekend.

Carrum Downs made a decent start, but a middle order and tail end collapse cost them badly. They lost 6/21 to close out their innings, finishing up all out for 131.

Boneo’s run chase looked in huge danger when Ryan Lynch took wick-

ets in consecutive deliveries to take the underdogs to 9/69. Jarvis Andersen and Isuru Umesh dug in for a brilliant final wicket partnership to drag Boneo over the line.

Andersen scored 46 from 75 deliveries. Umesh played a vital supporting role, scoring 14 from 76. With just two overs and one wicket to spare, Boneo crossed the finish line and claimed a massive upset win.

Boneo will fight Balnarring for the trophy this weekend. Balnarring secured their spot in the Grand Final by chasing down Flinders’ day one total of 235.

SUB DISTRICT

TYABB and Rye will play off for premiership glory in this weekend’s Grand Final.

Tyabb hosted Tootgarook at Bunguyan Reserve for their two-day semifinal. On Saturday, Tyabb scored 261 runs to set their opponents a formidable total to chase down.

James Holland-Burch, Jayden Regan, and Justin Bridgeman each scored half-centuries for Tyabb.

First drop batter Matthew Whelan led Tootagarook’s run chase with an impressive century. His efforts weren’t quite enough though, as his side was bowled out for 186 runs.

Rye bowled brilliantly last weekend to best Frankston YCW.

On Saturday, Rye was sent in to bat and struggled. They only managed to put 118 runs on the scoreboard before being bowled out.

Liam Greenwood took 5/12 to put the Stonecats in an excellent position.

On day two, Frankston YCW had a disastrous afternoon. A middle order collapse of four wickets for one run doomed them to defeat. The Stonecats were bowled out for just 78. Waligama Palleguruge and Jacob Long each finished the day with a fivewicket haul for Rye.

THE Sub-district 1st XI match between Rye and Frankston YCW finished in controversial fashion with umpires conversing before finally giving the last wicket for Frankston YCW out for caught behind. Rye will now play Tyabb in next week's final. Picture: Craig Barrett

A CLOSE call for Red Hill’s Simon Dart who went on to top score for Red Hill in their innings with a gritty 72 off 134 balls. Picture: Paul Churcher

WESTERN PORT scoreboard

Macphee breaks Langy drought

SOCCER

By Craig MacKenzie

ARCHIE Macphee’s goal two minutes into the second half on Friday night gave Langwarrin its first win of the season and lifted the local side off the bottom of the VPL1 ladder.

Langy had travelled to John Cain Reserve to face Northcote City with the weight of a winless start to the season on its shoulders and a mounting goals against record.

It also was undermanned with Dante Avian still out injured, Cooper Legrand and Barath Suresh on international duty and Jeremy Min Fa unavailable.

Langy started well against Northcote and was in control in the first half without being able to take the opportunities that came its way.

That changed in the 47th minute when a Lucas Portelli switch found Tom Youngs who drove into the box and crossed to Macphee.

The big Scot was unmarked at the far post and was able to slide home a simple finish.

Langy continued to push creating numerous chances before Youngs was felled in the box.

Macphee stepped up for the penalty but Northcote keeper Ahmad Taleb saved down low to his left.

Despite Northcote pushing for a late equaliser the Langy defence stood tall with keeper James Burgess making one good save and Brad Blumenthal effecting a last-ditch tackle to stop a goal.

Langy head coach Jamie Skelly was relieved to get a win that came seven games into the season.

“The longer you go without winning – even when you know you are playing well and very competitive in each game – the further away the first win feels,” Skelly said.

“But the win was very satisfying as our performance was a mix of our brand of football with the ball, tactically what we worked on during the week, and the true Langy fight and grit that we needed to show in the final 15 minutes.”

In State 1 news Mornington overcame a twogoal deficit in its 3-2 away win over Gippsland United on Saturday.

Despite creating numerous chances the visitors went behind in the 25th minute from a deflected Cooper Coleman shot and it was 2-0 in the 38th minute after Bayden Heusmann pounced on a Jack McDonald back pass.

Mornington’s fightback started in the 43rd minute when Rhys Craigie hit the mark with a glancing header from a Jacob Brito cross.

In the 86th minute Ryan Paczkowski’s powerful header made it 2-2 and the winner came four minutes into time added.

Paczkowski’s long and direct ball was cushioned by substitute Tom Wood for James Kelly to complete a stirring comeback by the Seagulls.

In State 2 news Skye United’s season started on a winning note with a 2-1 away win over Berwick City last weekend.

Skye started the stronger of the two sides and was rewarded in the 22nd minute when Tapiwa Kufakurowa was brought down in the area and Elliott Craig converted from the spot.

Berwick fought its way back into the contest and 12 minutes from time Rohan Gani converted from the penalty spot to make it 1-1.

However in the 87th minute Kufakurowa raced down the wing and squared the ball to substitute Ali Hazarah who clinched the points for the visitors with a shot from close range.

Peninsula Strikers and St Kilda drew 2-2 at Centenary Park on Saturday.

Strikers started well but St Kilda struck first with a stunning long-range strike from Evander Muzaya.

A minute later scores were level.

Matt Harrington’s pinpoint ball found Riley Anderton who finished brilliantly with a sidefoot volley.

Strikers went ahead 10 minutes into the second half.

Danny Brooks cut out a ball in midfield and played it to Anderton whose composure in the box saw him square it to Harrington for a toepoke into the bottom corner.

But it was 2-2 in the 60th minute when Ethan Goulding was harshly ruled for a high foot inside the area and Mark Walsh converted from the penalty spot.

Strikers had the best chances of the closing ex-

changes but couldn’t nab the winner.

Jordy May rattled a volley off the crossbar and a brilliant Sam Maggs cross was put over the bar by an outstretched Anderton.

In State 4 news Chelsea’s season started on a high with a comfortable 3-0 home win over Mentone on Friday night.

Chelsea led 1-0 at half-time after Mentone keeper Dylan Taylor punched the ball straight to goal ace James Stinson who rifled it into the roof of the net in the 22nd minute.

A minute into the second half it was 2-0 when Daniel Vella turned onto his left foot and hammered the ball home inside the near post.

Mentone striker Marcus Spivey must still be scratching his head at Adam Dunsford’s remarkable clearance to deny the visitors from hitting back and the contest was over in the 81st minute when a Dan Lewis shot was deflected to Lachie Davies for an easy finish.

Somerville Eagles opened the season with a 3-0 home win over fancied opponent Springvale City last weekend.

Clinical finishing and defensive resilience were the hallmarks of this performance.

Max Watson gave the Eagles a 12th-minute lead when he beat the offside trap and finished calmly from a one-on-one with Springvale keeper Kris McEvoy.

The second half proved to be a test of character requiring a fantastic defensive display.

This hard work was rewarded when Marcus Anastasiou produced a moment of brilliance delivering an excellent backheel assist to set up Alessio Izzo who rounded McEvoy in the 56th minute to double the lead.

The win was sealed in style in the 83rd minute by captain Nick Simmons who capped off a fine performance by side-footing home a precise cross from Anastasiou.

Rosebud began their first season in State 4 with a very nervy 2-1 home win on Saturday evening over a Frankston Pines side beset by off-field upheaval.

Pines head coach Alex Halikias resigned last week and reserves coach Juan Vargas took on the senior caretaker role.

But the visitors stunned the home side in the fourth minute when Nickel Chand caught Rosebud’s defence napping and put a delicate vol-

only for substitute Jasper Guthrie to snatch a point for the home side in the 81st minute.

In State 5 South the big news is that Barton United has dropped out and all its fixtures are now recorded as byes.

That has reduced the league to an 11-team competition which leaves a vacancy in Football Victoria’s planned restructure for the 2026 season.

Seaford United won Saturday’s derby showdown with Mount Martha 3-1 at North Seaford Reserve.

Seaford was 2-0 up after 12 minutes, the opener coming from Zain Ahmad who slotted home from a one-on-one with Mount Martha keeper Derren Elliott.

Four minutes later Dylan Waugh showed he’d lost nothing during his time off from the game with a clinical finish into the top corner.

Despite a much better second-half showing Mount Martha went 3-0 down in the 81st minute after a pinpoint Conor Mcfall through ball set up substitute Naseer Mohammad for a one-on-on with Elliott.

Three minutes later former Seaford player Mitch Hawkins’ tidy finish from the left completed the scoreline.

Mount Eliza’s season started with a 2-0 home win over Bunyip District last weekend.

Riley Van Zanden opened the scoring right on half-time with a header after the visitors had failed to clear from a corner.

Bunyip was reduced to 10 men when a second caution saw Ed Walker dismissed in the 70th minute and seven minutes later Austin McEwen settled the issue with a strike from the edge of the area following a Jackson Tossavainen cutback. With about 10 minutes to go Bunyip was awarded a penalty only to be denied by a fantastic save from Mount Eliza keeper Luke Armao.

NEXT WEEKEND’S GAMES

Friday 28 March, 8.30pm

Moreland City v Langwarrin, CB Smith Reserve

Noble Park Utd v Skye Utd, Parkfield Reserve

leyed finish past Colin McCormack in goal. Rosebud continued to be sloppy in possession and could have gone 4-0 down were it not for the brilliance of man-of-the-match McCormack.

A half-time Rosebud reset was effective and in the 73rd minute after Alfie Harris closed down a defender the ball fell to Ashton McMahon who swept it in from 10 metres out.

With a draw on the cards a Rosebud corner in the 94th minute was cleared only as far as Sean Smith who hit a delightful shot through a crowded penalty area for a winner greeted enthusiastically by the home fans.

Baxter survived with 10 men for most of the contest in a gutsy 1-1 away draw with Monash University on Saturday.

The visitors led after Alex Giordano’s right foot curler into the top corner but were forced onto the back foot when keeper Suliman Fazel was red carded for coming out of his area and denying a goalscoring opportunity in the 28th minute.

Duncan McPherson took over as makeshift keeper and had a fine game as Baxter defended resolutely for much of the remainder of the clash

Frankston Pines v Springvale City, Monterey Reserve

Saturday 29 March, 3pm

Mooroolbark v Peninsula Strikers, Esther Park Reserve

Lyndale Utd v Chelsea, Lyndale Secondary College

Monash University v Somerville Eagles, Monash University Playing Fields

Aspendale v Mount Eliza, Aspendale Gardens Sports Ground

Endeavour Hills Fire v Mount Martha, Power Reserve

Casey Panthers v Seaford Utd, Prospect Hill Reserve

Saturday 29 March, 6pm

South Springvale v Mornington, Warner Reserve

Rosebud v Noble Hurricanes, Olympic Park Saturday 29 March, 7pm Sandown Lions v Baxter, Ross Reserve

Drought breaker: Langwarrin striker Archie Macphee (right) ended his side’s winless streak last Friday night.

Picture: Darryl Kennedy

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