The Local Paper. Eastern Suburbs Edition. Wed., Feb. 18, 2026

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2026

‘Proud people, highly educated’

■ Paul Hamer, Box Hill MLA, has voiced his solidarity with our Victorian Iranian community.

Mr Hamer told Parliament that his support was particularly for the large number of Iranian Australians who live in the Box Hill electorate.

“Over the last six weeks we have seen awful images and heard terrible stories emerging from the streets of Iran as the Iranian regime has brutally cracked down on its local population.

“Many local families are having to deal with the trauma of not knowing the whereabouts of loved ones or having loved ones detained or killed, with demands for money being made to secure their release.

“The Iranian people are a proud people and continue cultural traditions that have existed for thousands of years.

“They are highly educated members of our community who have made new lives in Australia, with success in all disciplines, and contribute to community activities, including Box Hill’s own Persian Fair.

“The vast majority came to Australia to escape the regime, and all share the same vision that the Iranian people determine and shape the destiny of their own country,” Mr Hamer said.

BOX HILL MP SUPPORTS IRANIAN COMMUNITY SALUTE TO LOCAL FIRE VOLUNTEERS

■ Rowville MLA Kim Wells has spoken in State Parliament about his high regard for local firefighting volunteers.

“I rise today to acknowledge the extraordinary bravery and dedication of our local CFA volunteers during what has been a devastating 2025–26 bushfire season,” Mr Wells told the Legislative Assembly.

“Over the course of this summer Victoria has faced catastrophic conditions, especially across the Wimmera, north-central, north-east and Gippsland regions.

“While many of us were seeking relief from the heat, the men and women of the Rowville and Scoresby CFA brigades were doing the exact opposite, heading into danger to protect lives and property while endangering their own.

“I want to specifically highlight the efforts of our local strike teams. Members from both Rowville and Scoresby have been deployed nearly every day, primarily to the north-central town of Alexandra , providing significant support to the tragic Longwood and Walwa fires, which claimed over 135,000 hectares.

“In particular , Scoresby’s hose lay has been pumping critical magnitude amounts of water supply to be a major part of the bushfire response, while Rowville’s drones have been deployed throughout the state to provide crucial information to form a strategic response. I are immensely proud of you. Your commitment is the backbone of our community safety.”

Local Pathway Projects start

● ● ● ● Photo: City of Monash

■ Monash Council will soon be starting work on two projects that will improve pedestrian and cyclist access.

An upgrade of the Scotchmans Creek Trail shared path in Chadstone will help meet increased demands on the trail at this location.

The Council is working towards completing the last missing section of the Waverley Rail Trai l with the construction of a shared path from Jordanville Railway Station to Alvie Rd in Mount Waverley.

The Scotchmans Creek Trail works include trail widening and replacement of the existing asphalt path with a 3m wide concrete shared pathway.

The Waverley Rail Trail works will include a 3m wide concrete shared path, fencing and gates along the railway line, traffic safety measures at driveways and road crossings, as well as planting and landscaping where required.

These projects build on the progress of the Council’s recently completed separated cycleway through the heart of Oakleigh that opened late last year.

Coleman Pde closed

■ Work on Monash Council’s reconstruction of Coleman Pde in Glen Waverley has resulted in a full closure of Coleman Pde, between Avendon Blvd and Carramar Avenue, until Tuesday, March 3.

Traffic management measures will direct vehicles to detours in place and ensure that pedestrians can safely walk past the construction site. Detours will be clearly signed and marked.

Residents living in this section of Coleman Parade, Kinnoull Grove or Winter Way, will be able to access their property with support from the traffic management team onsite. This will include any emergency vehicle access required during the road closure.

Avendon Boulevard residents will be able to access the estate from Coleman Pde via Blackburn Rd only.

Syndal Railway Station car park will remain open and accessible from Blackburn Rd

The Coleman Pde reconstruction project is expected to be completed in April.

Pavilion replacement

■ Boroondara Council is replacing the pavilion at Hartwell Sportsground to better support sports clubs and community groups.

A part of the upgrade is improving the changerooms so they are more inclusive, with better facilities for women and improved accessibility.

Draft pavilion design (including the proposed floor plan) is available on the on Your Say Boroondara website. Comment is open until March 16.

Clayton Festival is back

■ Clayton Festival is back from 12 Noon5pm on Sunday, March 22 at the Clayton Community Centre, 9–15 Cooke St, Clayton . It is a free ticketed event Clayton Festival celebrates the diverse community and cultures of the area. There wiill be:

■ Kids activities, playground access and quiet sensory space

■ Reptile encounters

■ Face painting

■ Youth Hub — photobooth, inflatable activities and youth support services

■ Creative arts activities

■ Main Stage — performances from around the world

■ Rosie the Caravan — laid-back live acoustic sets

■ Roving performers and pop-up buskers

■ Teas of the World — sip and celebrate our multicultural community

■ Clayton Library annual Book Sale

■ Seniors’ Café — relax with a cuppa

■ Clayton Theatre — catch a short film and enjoy free popcorn served up thanks to Gold Sponsor, Suburban Rail Loop

■ Free entry at Clayton Aquatics Centre from 1pm–5pm

Kids left by side of road

■ Bulleen MLA Matthew Guy has requested an immediate audit of Melbourne bus operators to ascertain how many buses are at capacity and are leaving children on the side of the road during school pick-up and drop-off hours.

“It has come to my attention from a number of schools, particularly in growth areas and in the outer northeast of Melbourne, that in this school year, as schools have returned, many buses are now at absolute capacity –these are buses on regular bus routes, not school buses – and as a consequence bus drivers are not able to take the children who are seeking to take the bus to school because of kids now catching the bus and the capacity issues being so great that kids are being left on the side of the road.

“I understand there are at least halfa-dozen schools, large schools, in active discussion with the Department of Transport and Planning seeking to rectify this circumstance due to the safety concerns you would expect, particularly for younger kids, let us say, in high school, in year 7, year 8, and girls schools in particular, where kids are being left on the side of the road because capacity issues are seeing those children unable to board.

“If the buses are at crush capacity, the drivers are not going to take more people on them quite obviously. They have a responsibility and a duty of care, and they certainly would not break that.

“What we do need to know is how many of these routes are at capacity and how many school students are suffering as a result.

“Parents, quite obviously, me included, drop their children off at a bus stop in the morning expecting not only that the bus will turn up but that they will be able to get on it, and that is a reasonable expectation from every parent across the metropolitan area.”

Freeway delays

■ Disruptions to the Eastern Fwy and surrounding road network are expected as North East Link Project works progress.

There will be a temporary closure of the Bulleen Rd citybound exit ramp.

The Bulleen Rd citybound exit ramp will be closed to mid-March to complete 24/7 works, including starting to build a new shared path underpass and building new noise walls.

Delays of up to 20 minutes are expected during this closure.

Nature Stewards

■ Knox Nature Stewards is a 10-week program running between May and July which invites people to discover more about the natural environment.

There is a $350 full fee, $175 concession. It will be held at the Ferntree Gully Library and Art Centre

Freemasons Victoria: Whittlesea Lodge Cheque Presentations

Freemasons Victoria: Whittlesea Lodge Cheque Presentations

As the Climate Turns Hostile, Councils Turn to AI

■ Images of devastated property are becoming an increasing feature of news outlets in communities across the country.

Uprooted trees on buildings, carparks with rows of battered vehicles, smashed windows, flooded local shops and homes –even loss of life is increasingly common.

Recently, it was NSW and southern Queensland battered by severe hail and thunderstorms through northern parts of Melbourne and what was described as the most significant storm event on record in Port Pirie in South Australia.

In Sydney and the Central Coast, the hottest October on record was punctuated by sudden and record-breaking wind, rain and hail.

All over Australia, what were once one in 50 year weather events – or even the type of event usually associated with in the tropic – have become more and more frequent.

Fortunately, technology has progressed as climate uncertainty has increased. It is now possible, for example, to have such a detailed and granular view of all the assets and infrastructure in a community that the individual trees at highest risk of falling can be identified in minutes after a storm warning. And, furthermore, to get individual messages to the residents most likely to be affected.

So why is not every council doing this?

Firstly, budgets are desperately tight. An aging community putting pressure on the cost of services and rate capping constrain-

ing revenue have them in a fiscal pincer.

Secondly, the cost of keeping alive the old, legacy technology running their operations is growing more and more, and delivering less and less of the services residents have a right to now expect.

Some, however, are showing there is a path through.

Central Coast Council in NSW recently partnered with Australian tech giant TechnologyOne to completely replace business systems it had relied on for more than 20 years.

The new systems will not only deliver huge internal operational savings – automating processes that today take hours of council staff time – it will support the citizen focused services that communities increasingly will not be able to do without.

But the icing on the cake is that the Council will pay less for the technology than it is presently paying for its outdated and inadequate mishmash of overseas software products.

Not just save a small amount –it believes it will save $2.4 million of precious ratepayers’ money.

The combination of TechnologyOne’s unique pricing model, which does not charge separately for implementation –the heart of the tech wreck horror stories councils so desperately need to avoid – and the reality that system modernisation can save money from day one, is changing the game for councils considering digital transformation. And not a moment too soon for residents.

50 weapons seized in blitz

■ More than 120 people have been arrested and close to 50 weapons seized in a summer safety blitz on train lines across Melbourne's eastern suburbs.

The effort sees police and PSOs rove the network to keep troublemakers on their toes, on top of their usual static patrols.

It is proving so successful criminals have been complaining to each other on social media about the strong enforcement presence.

Operation Solstice, which began in November, is an initiative of Victoria Police's Transit East Local Area Command

The operation centres on the Lilydale, Belgrave, Glen Waverley and Alamein train lines.

The 123 arrests so far include:

■ A 28-year-old woman who had six kitchen knives and was in possession of several drugs of dependence;

■ A 54-year-old man who allegedly stole a $5700 bike which was later returned to the owner;

■ A 16-year-old boy charged with robbery; and

■ A 31-year-old caught scrawling graffiti at a train station.

Police and PSOsalso patrolling with authorised officershave issued 119 penalty notices for issues like anti-social behaviour and referred more than 30 people to support services.

Police and PSO used their powers under the Control of WeaponsAct to seize 47 weapons.

More than 10,000 people have been spoken with.

The highly visible presence has received widespread support from commuters

Editor: Ash Long

Features Editor: Peter Mac

Columnists: Len Baker, Rod Basto, Matt Bissett-Johnson, Rob Foenander, Peter Kemp, Aaron Rourke, Cheryl Threadgold, Julie Houghton, Kevin Trask

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

Logistics: Tim Granvillani, Erica Koldinsky, Tyler Sandiford

while police say online complaints from crooks shows it is actively altering offender behaviour and deterring criminal activity.

Additional resources such as the dog squad have been brought in to further boost safety while police and PSOs are helping people fit one-way screws to their vehicles to thwart thieves.

PSOs continue to have a dedicated daily presence at train stations and perform targeted, intelligence-led operations around-theclock.

Operation Solstice runs until the end of March.

Acting Sen-Sgt Jonathan Allie, Transit East Local Area Command, said: "This operation is all about making sure our police and PSOs leave no stone unturned in detecting and deterring crime.

"It's mobile, it's agile and it's keeping crooks on their toes.

"In fact, the operation is proving so successful we know criminals are complaining to each other about our enforcement activity.

"That shows we're not just tackling crime we're stopping it from happening in the first place.

Next step

■ The State Government has commenced Phase 2 community consultation for Tranche 2 of the Train and Tram Zone Activity Centres Program, which includes the Blackburn, Nunawading and Mitcham activity centres.

The consultation period runsuntil Sunday, March 22. This phase focuses on draft maps and proposed planning controls.

57 years. Since 1969.

WEDNESDAY,FEBRUARY18,2026

Police Rounds

Probe into collision

■ Warrnambool Police officers are appealing for public assistance as they investigate the circumstances surrounding a local collision.

Emergency services were called to the Princes Hwy, just before the intersection of Mahoneys Rd, after a man was located with serious injuries about 12.30am on Sunday, 8 February 8.

The 37-year-old Ellerslie man was airlifted to hospital, where he remains in a stable condition.

At the time of the incident, attending investigators located debris approximately 80 metres from where the man was located, and believe he was struck by a vehicle.

As part of their investigation, police have since identified the driver of a while utility that was found nearby.

Police continue to make enquiries into the incident and are appealing for witnesses or any motorists who may have dashcam and drove past the area at the time.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Ketamine bust

■ A man was scheduled to appear in Court after allegedly attempting to import 60 grams of ketamine into Australia , hidden inside a suitcase. The man, 60, arrived at Adelaide Airport

At 97, Neville is cruising

Across Victoria Maryborough crash

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives have charged a 19-year-old man following a fatal collision in Maryborough on Saturday night, February 7.

Emergency services responded to reports a grey Commodore collided with a silver Daihatsu sedan on Dunolly-Maryborough Rd, near the intersection of Drive In Court, about 9.30pm.

The driver of the Daihatsu, a 23-year-old woman from Epsom, died at the scene.

The 21-year-old female passenger of the Daihatsu, also from Epsom, was airlifted to hospital where she remains with serious injuries.

The male driver of the Commodore was taken to hospital by road with non-lifethreatening injuries.

The 19-year-old Dunolly man was charged with culpable driving causing death and dangerous driving.

He was bailed to appear in Bendigo Magistrates’ Court on July 8.

Hit-run charge

■ A man has been charged following an alleged stabbing and hit-run in Piangil. Police were called to reports of a dispute outside a property on Murray St, where items were allegedly being set on fire and thrown over a fence on February 9.

FLEURIEU PENINSULA

Online sex offences

■ A Fleurieu Peninsula man has been charged after an investigation into child sex offences.

A 33-year-old Encounter Bay man was arrested on Friday (Feb. 13) and charged with making a child amenable to sexual activity and possessing Child Exploitation Material.

Police r efused bail and he was to appear in Christies Beach Magistrates’ Court on Monday (feb. 16).

Detective Acting Chief Inspector Rebecca Hughes , Officer in Charge of the Offender Management Section, said, “Our officers are dedicated to holding offenders accountable for any actions that threaten the safety and well-being of children in the community.”

Adelaide Sun

TASMANIAN EAST COAST

Motorcycle crash

■ Police are investigating a fatal crash involving a single motorcycle rider on a bush track, near the Chain of Lagoons, on Tasmania’s East Coast.

Emergency services were notified of the crash on the Leeaberra Track about 4pm on Friday (Febg. 13), with a 24-yearold man sustaining critical head injuries after coming off a trail bike. The man died at the scene.

Initial investigations indicate the man was riding alone on Friday afternoon when the crash happened near the southern end of the track’s intersection with the Thompsons Marshes track. The man had been camping nearby with a group of people when he went off alone for a ride. He was found a short time later by a member of the group. Police said the crash site was in difficult-to-access terrain.

Investigations will continue into the crash and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Tasmanian Observer

100KG COCAINE IMPORT: ORGANISED CRIME LINK

■ A New South Wales man, linked to organised crime, who co-ordinated the importation of 100kg of cocaine in the cargo hold of a passenger plane has been sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment.

His jail term follows the sentencing of three other men - including two trusted insiders - to a combined maximum of 15 years and nine months’ imprisonment for their role in the same criminal enterprise.

An Australian Federal Police investigation into the importation began in October 2022 following a report from an airline about suspicious activity near the cargo area of a Sydney -bound flight at Johannesburg, South Africa.

Two men with access to the restricted zones of Sydney Airport – also known as trusted insiders – were identified and suspected of using their employment to access and remove items from the cargo hold of an inbound aircraft, bypassing regular security screening measures.

Following a 12-month investigation into the report, investigators were able to link the Padstow man to the trusted insiders and confirm his position as co-ordinator of a importation in October 2023.

AFP investigators disrupted the syndicate as they offloaded the cocaine from an aircraft – with an estimated street value of $40 million – and arrested the 44-year-old at Rushcutters Bay

The man, 44, pled guilty to conspiracy to import a commercial quantity of cocaine.

He was sentenced to serve a non-parole period of five years.

One member of the alleged syndicate remains before the courts.

AFP Detective a/Inspector Paul Watt said the AFP and its partners remained committed to preventing organised criminal groups from exploiting Australia’s airports and those who were privileged to hold access to them.

"To anyone who works in an airport environment and may be lured in by the false

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promise a life of crime may offer, let me be very clear – these offences carry the potential of life in jail and Operation Lucian is a testament to that,” Det. a/Insp Watt said.

“You are up against a well-resourced, capable and unrelenting opposition in the AFP and our partners, and we will not allow criminals to make out communities less safe.

“Operation Lucian spared Australians from the violence, addiction and further criminality this shipment of cocaine would have brought to our shores.”

CANBERRA

Man extradited

■ A 49-year-old Taylor man has been extradited from Queensland following his alleged involvement in multiple incidents, including an alleged armed robbery, a home invasion, and two vehicle thefts.

Between December 4-5 police responded to multiple incidents believed to be linked, including an aggravated burglary in Macquarie , an attempted ram raid at a Kingston business, a home invasion in Conder where a 72-year-old woman was tied up, a second aggravated burglary in Gordon and an armed robbery at a currency exchange business in Dickson

Three people were allegedly involved in the incidents. One of the alleged offenders was declared deceased after a collision on an exit ramp off Gungahlin Drive while two co-offenders from these incidents remained outstanding.

Following enquiries by ACT Criminal Investigations officers, the wanted man, a 49year-old from Taylor , was located by Queensland Police Service members in Cooktown on Janaury 26. The man had a large sum of cash in his possession when arrested and police believe this is the proceeds of the alleged armed robbery in Dickson in December 2025.

The man was subsequently extradited to the ACT and was expected to face the ACT Magistrates Court charged with multiple theft, ride/drive stolen motor vehicle, aggravated burglary, aggravated robbery and forcible confinement offences.

Canberra Observer

PERTH

Indecent dealing

■ Detectives from the Child Abuse Squad charged a 29-year-old man after an alleged incident at an aquatic centre in Embleton.

It will be alleged the man followed a young girl into the toilet area at the complex where he indecently assaulted her.

The 29-year-old man from Landsdale has been charged with ‘Indecent Dealings with Child Under 13 Years’. He appeared before the Perth Magistrates’ Court and is next due to appear in court on March 13.

BRISBANE

Across Australia

SYDNEY

Child abuse

offences

■ A Sydney man was expected to appear in Burwood Local Cour, charged with 30 offences, including multiple online child abuse offences.

The Australian Federal Police were to allege the man, 43, uploaded and shared violent child abuse material to an online cloud storage service on numerous occasions for at least two years.

The AFP began an investigation after the AFP -led Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation received a report from the United States National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about an online user uploading child abuse material on social media platforms.

Inquiries by the ACCCE and AFP Eastern Command Child Protection Operations investigators allegedly linked the man to the online account.

Investigators executed a search warrant at a Canterbury (NSW) home on March 27 last year, and seized multiple electronic devices, including a number of mobile phones and laptops. The devices were subject to forensic examination.

As a result of the examination of the electronic devices and other inquiries, AFP investigators arrested the man in Canterbury on Thursday (Feb. 12), and he was subsequently charged with 30 offences, including:

■ One count of larceny by persons in public service,

■ One count of possessing or controlling child abuse material obtained or accessed using a carriage service,

■ One count of using a carriage service to do/plan harm to person under 16 years of age,

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

■ Eight counts of causing child abuse material to be transmitted to self using a carriage service,

■ Four counts of using a carriage service to access child abuse material, One count of using a carriage service to groom a person under 16 years of age for sexual activity,

■ One count of using a carriage service to solicit child abuse material.

Sydney Mail

TASMANIA

21 new constables

■ Tasmania Police has elcomed 21 new constables into its ranks.

Acting Commander Brenda Orr congratulated the new police officers, who have successfully completed a rigorous 28-week training program.

“Recruit Training Course 4 of 2025 comprises seven women and 14 men, ranging in age from 18 to 42,” she said.

“They have already shown real commitment and resilience, and I look forward to seeing the contribution they will make to policing in Tasmania .”

“This is the first recruit graduation for 2026, with further courses scheduled to graduate throughout the year as Tasmania Police continues to invest in building a contemporary, well trained and community focused workforce.

Tasmanian Observer

DARWIN

Streamed robbery

■ A 23-year-old man has been arrested after allegedly live-streaming a robbery at a convenience store in Darwin’s CBD on Friday evening (Feb. 13).

Perth Observer

Police band debuts

■ The Queensland Police Pipes and Drums was set to reach a historic milestone as they performed alongside the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo at Suncorp Stadium.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, which has travelled from its Scottish homeland to perform in Australia and New Zealand , is recognised globally as one of the most prestigious military and cultural musical showcases. Brisbane Sun

About 6.17pm NT Police received reports that a male was behind the counter of a store on the corner of Smith and Knuckey Sts, threatening staff and demanding money.

It is alleged the offender was live streaming the incident on a social media platform.

General Duties members responded quickly and located and arrested the male a short distance away.

During the arrest the offender advised police that he was in possession of an unloaded, small firearm.

The offender was subsequently found to be in possession of the small firearm as well as a quantity of stolen cash, a quantity of ammunition and the mobile phone he allegedly used to broadcast the incident. Darwin Observer

Vale Wayne Browne

■ Melbourne media man Wayne Browne has died. His colleague Gary Mac paid this tribute:

“Wayne Browne slipped away in the early hours of Saturday morning (Feb. 7) following a short stay in hospital,” Mr Mac said.

“Wayne and I met when we both worked in radio and he and his wife Jan became firm friends of ours.

“Wayne began his radio career in 1959 at age 15, at 7LA Launceston. His first gig was as panel operator for Don Lunn.

“When Wayne turned 17, he moved to 7AD Devonport allowing him to present his own radio music shows.

“A bit later, (Wayne may have been 21), he moved back to Launceston to become, as he put it, 'a hot-shot disc jockey' at 7EX He would also meet Jan, his wife to be.

“A young Mal Walden, who began his radio vocation in Warrnambool, was also hired by 7EX

“In 1962, Channel TNT 9 opened in Launceston and it wasn't too long before Wayne and Mal were sharing TV news reading stints on weekends.

“Some 12 months later, 3AW came knocking, offering Wayne the position of executive producer to pioneer their brand new format ‘Talk Back Radio’.

“His first producing gig was on the prestigious morning program headed by Ormsby Wilkins. Later he would move on to produce Norman Banks, Martha Gardener, Claudia Wright and many others.

“He then became personal producer for Mary Hardy, producing and guiding Mary as a ratings winner in her 3AW afternoon slot.

“ Wayne described Mary as one of the most wonderful women in his life. He was certainly the doyen of Talk Radio producers.

“Wayne was appointed station manager of 3MP. In 1984, he engineered an incredible 'live' visual marketing promotion for the Melbourne Radio School that Joanie and I created and conducted for 20 years.

“3MP had built a working radio studio at the 1984 Royal Melbourne Show. Wayne asked me to invite current MRS students to run a closed circuit radio program between 9am and 5pm each day of the show. It was a raging success.

“In later years, Wayne became Promotions Manager at the Melbourne Hilton on The Park, at a time when the Hilton chain was presenting cabaret shows of high profile entertainers and musicians.

“In the meantime, Wayne set up his own promotions business which allowed him to freelance his great knowledge and ability to radio including KZ-FM (Gold 104) and to spearhead the promotional launch of 3EE The Breeze 693 in 1993 (which later became the AM frequency for 3AW)

“At his request, there will be no funeral for Wayne

“However, I'd like to think there might be a memorial gathering at an appropriate time in the future.

“For Joanie and me, our thoughts and love are with Wayne's wife Jan, daughter Alison, son Cameron and their grand and great grand children.

“Thank you Wayne for your love and your friendship. Rest In Peace old friend.”

ELTHAM MAN, 32, IN COURT OVER BLACKMAIL

■ Detectives from Taskforce Hawk last Thursday (Feb. 12) charged two men as part of an investigation into blackmail.

A 32-year-old Eltham man was charged with blackmail and fail to comply direction to assist (fail to provide pin code).

The man was to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.

A 32-year-old Watsonia man was charged with fail to comply direction to assist (fail to provide pin code).

He was bailed to appear at Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court on April 2.

A 55-year-old Mernda man was released.

The charges relate to allegations of blackmail at a business in Brooklyn on January 19, when a demand was allegedly made for the victim to pay $663,000.

Operation Hawk was established in July 2024 to specifically target criminal behaviour linked to the construction industry and transitioned to Taskforce Hawk in June 2025.

This was in response to a number of fresh allegations of serious and violent criminal behaviour.

Taskforce Hawk is focused on assessing new intelligence and evidence relating to allegations of criminal behaviour linked to the construction industry.

It also continues to proactively target organised crime associated with the sector, including a focus on any individuals employed within the construction industry who have known links to outlaw motorcycle gangs.

Police are also instigating approaches with relevant industry stakeholders to gather intelligence, as well as working closely with a range of law enforcement partners, regulators and government authorities.

The investigation remains ongoing.

$10 mil. pot crop

■ Four men have been charged after police dismantled a sophisticated cannabis crop worth more than $10 million in Victoria’s northwest. Detectives from the Swan Hill Crime Investigation Unit , with assistance from multiple units, executed a search warrant at a rural property in Milnes Bridge, a small town between

on Tuesday, February 10.

Police uncovered 10 large greenhouses with varying quantities of mature plants inside.

Five people allegedly attempted to flee from the 324-acre property, with three allegedly jumping into an irrigation channel in an attempt to get away.

Police arrested four men, aged 39, 41 and two aged 51, shortly after.

The men, who are foreign nationals, have since been charged with cultivating a large commercial quantity of cannabis and trafficking a large commercial quantity of cannabis.

They faced Bendigo Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday and were remanded to appear again on May 13.

A fifth man remains outstanding at this stage.

It took three days for investigators and forensic specialists from the Botany Unit to dismantle the illicit crop houses.

Approximately 4700 plants – weighing more than two and a half tonnes - were removed from the property.

They will be destroyed following forensic examination by a botanist.

Police also seized electronic devices, CCTV hardware and items allegedly used to bypass electricity.

Other units that assisted include the Western Region Crime Squad, Mildura Divisional Response Unit and local uniform police.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Detective Acting Inspector Matt Pascoe, Mildura and Swan Hill

ing those in the production of illicit drugs and those involved in this activity should know we have you in our sights.

“This investigation remains ongoing and we implore anyone with information to come forward to police.”

Daniella at the top

■ Scouts Victoria has invested Dan=iella Taglieri as Chief Commissioner, becoming the first woman to lead the organisation in its Victorian history.

Complaint to IBAC

■ The Victorian Liberals and Nationals have referred the largest corruption case in Victoria’s history to the Independent Broad-Based Anti-Corruption Commission for investigation.

A media report says the State Government knew of corruption on taxpayer funded major projects estimated at a ‘conservative’ cost to taxpayers of $15 billion, yet did nothing.

“As a direct consequence of Jacinta Allan’s mismanagement as both the Minister responsible for major transport projects and Premier, every Victorian household has paid more than $5000 in corruption tax straight into the pockets of organised criminals,” said a Coalition representative.

“ Victorians deserve answers and accountability. This scandal must be investigated by Victoria’s chief integrity agency.

Shadow Attorney-General, James Newbury, said: “Premier Jacinta Allan has given a green light to organised criminals to corrupt taxpayer-funded major projects.

“This is the worst case of corruption in Victoria’s history and we must not be left reliant on interstate investigations to get to the bottom of what has occurred.”

Police numbers fall

Investigation and Response Manager:

“Anytime we’re able to remove significant quantities of illicit drugs from the streets is a win for community safety.

“We know the cultivation and trafficking of drugs is what fuels organised crime groups.

“Police remain committed to target-

The appointment marks a significant leadership moment for one of Victoria’s largest youth movements and recognises a leader whose career has been built on decades of service, capability and commitment to young people and volunteers.

A lifelong Scout and Queen’s Scout Award recipient, Daniella has served Scouting at every level, including Deputy Chief Commissioner.

■ New data confirms there are now 367.7 fewer full time equivalent Victoria Police officers than when Jacinta Allan became Premier.

New Victoria Police employee numbers by location data has confirmed 15,601.75 FTE officers as of December 2025, down from 15,969.45 in September 2023 – the same month Jacinta Allan became Premier.

Over this same period, independent Crime Statistics Agency data has confirmed the annual number of offences recorded has risen from 510,140 to 640,860, an increase of more than 25 per cent. Nearly half of this total number of offences - 294,639 - remain unsolved.

The number of Victoria Police officers is now at its lowest level since September 2019 as 41 police stations across the state are closed or operating on reduced hours.

ARIES: (March 21 – April 20)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 1.3.2.5

Lotto Numbers: 1.2.15.26.36.34

Favourable conditions exist for new business opportunities. Travel is likely in the near future, and some happy reunions are on the horizon. A good time to push forward in career matters.

TAURUS: (April 21 – May 20)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 3.6.2.3

Lotto Numbers: 3.12.26.34.40.22

Romance is in the air, and some may be preparing to tie the knot. A busy social schedule could leave you needing time to recharge. Improvements in health are also likely.

GEMINI: (May 21 – June 21)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 1.6.9.5

Lotto Numbers: 1.15.26.34.40.45

Support you've been hoping for may finally arriv cautious about making promises you may not have the time or energy to keep.

CANCER: (June 22 – July 22)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 1.3.2.5

Lotto Numbers: 1.12.15.24.40.33

Pay close attention to your health; a gentle exercise routine could help. A developing situation will show you the true value of old friends and their support.

LEO: (July 23 – August 22)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 1.6.5.2

Lotto Numbers: 1.12.16.36.39.8

This is a good time to take calculated risks in business, with fortune likely to favour your ventures. Be mindful not to neglect loved ones, or tension may rise at home.

VIRGO: (August 23 – September 23)

Lucky Colour: Dark Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 1.6.8.9

Lotto Numbers: 9.5.12.26.34.45

You may be in high demand socially, and your skills in organisation will shine. A newcomer could make a significant impression and bring positive change to your life.

LIBRA: (September 24 – October 23)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1.3.8.9

Lotto Numbers: 1.15.24.8.6.3

Career progress is possible, and some changes may affect your path. A special person may send positive signals, leading to potential romance.

SCORPIO: (October 24 – November 22)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 6.5.2.3

Lotto Numbers: 4.12.26.39.8.44

You may be considering a change of address or moving house. Steer clear of those who drain your energy. Keeping a positive mindset will help maintain emotional balance.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23 – December 20)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 4.9.8.7

Lotto Numbers: 4.12.26.35.4.22

Real estate dealings are favoured and could bring profit. A decision involving family matters may need to be made soon. Trust your instincts when it comes to personal choices.

CAPRICORN: (December 21 – January 19)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 1.3.2.1

Lotto Numbers: 1.12.15.26.34.36

Good luck may alter your family or travel plans. This is an excellent time to start a new business venture or commit to a career move with long-term benefits.

AQUARIUS: (January 20 – February 19)

Lucky Colour: Violet

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 1.2.4.5

Lotto Numbers: 4.15.45.40.3.39

If you're careful, this period could bring success in both personal and business matters. Intrigue may arise in your surroundings, but staying level-headed will serve you well.

PISCES: (February 20 – March 20)

Lucky Colour: Gold

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1.6.5.2

Lotto Numbers: 1.15.26.34.8.33

A deceptive influence is in play, so avoid taking things at face value. Double-check all information before committing to anything, and be cautious with finances until all is clear.

EMOTIONAL TOLL ON KIDS AS THEY FIGHT CANCER

Sir,

Blood cancer … the single biggest tragedy impacting Aussie kids and forcing them out of classrooms

As Australian children return to school, hundreds will not.

Their desks sit empty as they fight blood cancer –the single biggest disease threatening the lives of school-aged children in Australia today.

This year alone, around 350 children will be diagnosed with blood cancer.

It now accounts for more than one in three childhood cancers, yet remains a largely hidden national tragedy.

A blood cancer diagnosis is sudden and brutal. Children are forced out of classrooms and into hospital wards, enduring aggressive treatment that can last years.

Many miss 40 to 60 per cent of school in their first year alone, with some absent for up to 18 months.

The impacts on learning, wellbeing and social development are profound and long-lasting.

Over the past two decades, blood cancer incidence among children aged five to 14 has risen by almost 30 per cent.

If this trend continues, more than 400 children a year could face this devastating diagnosis within the next decade.

At the Leukaemia Foundation , we see the toll this takes on children and families every day – emotionally, financially and socially.

While we provide vital accommodation, transport, education and support services, and invest in life-saving research, we cannot do it alone.

As the World’s Greatest Shave launches nationally, I urge Australians to stand with these children and all Australians impacted by blood cancer.

Participating by shaving, cutting or colouring your hair helps ensure no person faces blood cancer without support.

Register to participate in the World’s Greatest Shave at worldsgreatestshave. com or call 1800 500 088.

Chris Tanti , CEO, Leukaemia Foundation

Moneycare: Salvation Army

Sir,

The start of the new year brings with it an array of opportunities.

For us at the Salvos , it is an opportunity to reflect on the Christmas season that has just passed, and more specifically show our gratitude for the generosity shown by the Australian public for our Christmas Appeal

Once again, Aussies came together to support their fellow Australians in need.

If it wasn’t for your support, kids would have gone without presents under the tree, families without a special Christmas meal and many without hope

‘We are here for you, and there is no shame in reaching out for support’

- Kristen Hartnett

and joy during the festive season. For this, we say thank you.

The new year also gives us all an opportunity to set ourselves up for the year ahead.

That is why our financial counselling service, Moneycare , is encouraging all Australians to take a fresh look at their finances this year.

Our recent research found that 44 per cent of Australians are starting this New Year in debt, 45 per cent say they feel pressure to spend more than they can afford and 24 per cent find it difficult to even create a budget.

We know that people are struggling financially right now, but there is hope.

The Salvos Moneycare service offers free and confidential financial counselling to thousands of Aussies each year, helping them to get on top of their finances.

They can help you create a budget, support you to get out of debt, sit with you to create realistic money

plans, and everything in between.

Regardless of your financial situation, there is no better time than the start of a new year to take a fresh look at your finances and get on top of your financial situation.

So don’t start the new year on the wrong foot. Do a financial check up this new year to avoid stress later in the year. And if you are struggling to cope financially, please reach out to The Salvation Army’s Moneycare service.

We are here for you, and there is no shame in reaching out for support.

If you or someone you know needs support from The Salvation Army’s Moneycare , please visit salvationarmy.org.au/ moneycare or call 1800 722 363.

Kristen Hartnett

Head of Moneycare for The Salvation Army

Stress then heart issues

Sir,

In every community, there are families who have lost someone too soon to heart disease, and others quietly living with its longterm effects. For many of us, it’s not an abstract issue - it’s personal.

Chronic stress has become part of daily life for many of us.

When the body doesn’t get a chance to reset, prolonged stress can quietly damage heart health - often without obvious warning signs until something goes wrong.

This February, Heart Research Australia is inviting Australians to take part in the free REDFEB Bingo Challenge , built around the 4Ms of heart health - Meals, Movement, Measurement and Mental Wellness.

The Bingo card encourages small, everyday actions, like sharing a healthy meal, going for a walk, checking your blood pressure or slowing down to take a breath, to help reduce stress and support heart health.

The Bingo Challenge is part of REDFEB, Heart Research Australia’s heart awareness month, which this year is raising awareness of the link between chronic stress and heart health, while bringing communities together to honour loved ones affected by heart disease.

Funds raised support lifesaving research that helps turn promising ideas into breakthroughs and keeps families together for longer.

Small actions, taken together, can make a real difference.

This REDFEB , I hope our community will join in and help support the research that gives families hope.

To learn more and support Heart Research Australia’s critical research, please visit www.heartresearch.com.au Nicci Dent, CEO, Heart Research Australia

75 Years Ago

● ● The Argus. Feb. 17, 1951.

Defence blueprint

■ The Federal Government will switch manpower from luxury to essential industries in its drive to put Australia on a near-war footing.

Senior Cabinet Ministers who said this tonight said also that the government would use its defence powers to the fullest extent to recruit more men and women for the defence forces.

Holt’s rebuke

■ Mr. Holt, Federal Minister for Labor, today rebuked colliery owners for refusing to attend the conference called yesterday to settle the one-day-a-week coal strikes.

He said their action was an unjustifiable complication of the general strike situation.

The conference was convened by the Joint Coal Board . The proprietors refused to attend because. They said, the men had adopted strike tactics and because the conference was contrary to the Coal Board regulations.

No rain prayers

■ Two Hobart ministers, the Revs. H. L. Dunn , of the Scots Presbyterian Church, and the Rev. J. Mackie, or Davey St. Congreational Church , today refused the request of the Lord Mayor of Hobart, Mr. Park , to offer special Prayers for rain on Sunday.

"Why should God be treated as a water diviner when he asks to be our Saviour, Lord, and King?" asked Mr. Mackie Mr. Dunn , who is president of the Tasmanian World Council of Churches, said he was never impressed by such calls to prayer. Heads of other churches have agreed to the Lord Mayor's request. Less than fifty days' supply of water remains in the Hobart reservoirs, and the position is critical.

A lot of Margaret

■ Princess Margaret during the Royal visit next year will make special tours so that more people, especially young people, can see her. Mr. Sidney G. Holland, New Zealand Prime Minister, said this tonight.

The New Zealand tour by the King and Queen and P rincess Margaret would necessarily be restricted. Mr. Holland said he hoped soon to announce an itinerary for the Royal visitors.

Melbourne Observer

GUEST EDITORIAL

by Gerard Foley, Principal, Ivanhoe Grammar School

● ● ● ● Gerard Foley

■ Today is a little different. It is an assembly focused on leadership – a key part of an Ivanhoe education in cadets, sport, music, theatre, service learning and through random acts of kindness.

This assembly brings together our students in Years 10 to 12 and a distinguished group of former Ivanhoe Grammar School captains.

That means this room holds both experience and possibility—those leading now, those who have led before, and those who will continue to lead long after they leave this place. The breadth of leadership here is something to recognise and value.

As we begin the year, it’s worth pausing to reflect not just on what we hope to achieve, but on how we choose to lead. Because at Ivanhoe Grammar School, leadership has never been about titles or visibility. It has always been about something deeper.

At its heart, Ivanhoe has a singular purpose: to develop young people of character. From the earliest days of the School, under the vision of our founding Principal, Reverend Sydney Buckley, leadership was understood as service—using education and opportunity for the good of others.

Character, not status, was and continues to be the measure.

That understanding is captured in the Round Square IDEALS, which shape not only who we are, but importantly, how we act.

Internationalism reminds us that leadership begins with perspective. Effective leaders listen, seek to understand difference, and engage with the wider world with empathy and humility.

Democracy teaches us that leadership is not about authority, but about trust. It values voice, inclusion, and shared responsibility. At Ivanhoe, leadership means standing up for fairness and ensuring others are heard. Environment calls us to stewardship. Leaders care for what has been entrusted to them—our community, our wellbeing, and our world—and leave things better than they found them.

Adventure reminds us that leadership requires courage: the courage to try, to fail, to grow, and to act when it would be easier not to. Many of the alumni captains here today will know that their most meaningful leadership moments came when something important was at stake.

At the centre of all of this is leadership lived through service. At Ivanhoe, leadership is not about being the loudest voice, but the most consistent presence. It is about integrity, compassion, and responsibility. It is about asking not, “What do I gain?” but, “What do others need?”

And sometimes, the most powerful examples of leadership are not found on a stage or in a badge, but in the everyday moments that reveal true character.

Last week, I was fortunate enough to witness a true act of leadership—something very Ivanhoe in its spirit. A Year 7 girl noticed someone standing alone at recess—someone she didn’t know—and simply invited her to join the group. There was no announcement, no recognition—just instinctive kindness. That, right there, is leadership at its most powerful. And it goes to the very heart of our purpose as a School: to develop young people of character. Character is not positional or performative; it is revealed in quiet, unprompted moments—small, courageous acts that make others feel seen, valued, and that they belong.

For our current students, leadership is not something you wait for—it is something you practise every day in how you treat others and contribute to this community. In those daily choices, character is formed.

For our alumni captains, your presence reminds us that leadership does not end when school does. It evolves, deepens, and continues to shape lives long after titles fade. The true measure of leadership is not position or recognition, but impact.

SIMON OWENS ‘NAME TALES’

■ Congratulations to 3AW presenter

Simon Owens who has created a series of podcasts titled Name Tales. Each episode of Name Tales runs for about five minutes, and 50 episodes are ready to roll out.

During his 30 years on 3AW, Simon has presented The Simon Owens Show and Remember When and worked alongside and learned from industry greats such as Bruce Mansfield and Philip Brady

Simon explains his new Name Tales project: 'There are thousands of brand names, store names, products, and just ‘things’ that are named after people. So in each episode of my podcast I’ll give you the back story to a recognisable product, shop or thing.'

Some examples are: Who was Calvin Klein? What does Adidas stand for? Simon points out that we know the brands, but where do their names come from?

'The stories are fascinating, and I’ll reveal the name at the end.'

Episodes of the podcast will be released each time a fundraising milestone is met.

In each episode, 15-20 seconds will be used to advertise a business or do shoutouts to people who support the podcast for as little as a dollar.

Donations can be made and ads can be purchased by heading to buymeacoffee.com/nametales

The podcast can be found on shows.acast.com/nametales

Cheryl Threadgold

Murder Village

■ David Massingham presents, as part of the 2026 MelbourneInternationalComedy Festival Murder Village: An Improvised Whodunnit at Arts Centre Melbourne's Member Lounge from March 26 - April 19.

Audiences will become immersed in the cosy world of a 1950s Agatha Christie-style novel as improvisers craft eccentric characters and perplexing mysteries from their suggestions.

Any of the village’s suspicious denizens could be dispatched at any moment, and any of them could be the murderer! It’s your secret ballot votes that determine who lives, who dies, and who will be unmasked as the culprit.

Now celebrating a decade of wowing audiences across Australia, Murder Village: An Improvised Whodunnit is a comedic off-the-cuff mystery created in real time by skilled improvisers.

The hilarious format is a chance for lovers of crime fiction to immerse themselves in a world of English villages, red herrings, and delightfully suspicious characters.

In Murder Village, the local police inspector may be woefully incompetent but thankfully there is always an amateur sleuth on hand to sort the red herrings from the tell-tale clues.

Audiences are invited to solve the crime

first … whether seeing one show or all of them, no two chapters of this critically acclaimed show are the same.

Performance Season: March 26 - April 19. Tues. – Sat. 9.15pm, Sun. 8.15pm; Previews: March 26 and 27, 9.15pm; Opening Night: March 31, 9.15pm

Bookings: 9245 3788 and online via www.improvisedwhodunnit.com/upcoming-shows and www.comedyfestival.com. au/browse-shows/murder-village-an-improvised-whodunnit

Venue: Arts Centre Melbourne (Member’s Lounge), 100 St Kilda Rd, Southbank www.improvisedwhodunnit.com

Duration: 60 minutes no interval

Ages: 13+

Warnings: References to, or simulation of, violence.

Cheryl Threadgold

Mature Skin

■ Darebin Arts Speakeasy presents Mature Skin, a comedy described as 'dark as it is seductive' from March 11 - 22 at the Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre.

Written by Gabrielle Fallen and directed by Justin Nott, Mature Skin takes a razor to the glossy promise of “all-natural” beauty culture, then pushes past the surface into mess, desire, power, and queer embodiment.

The play begins in the charged intimacy of a nightclub bathroom, where two strangers collide. They both work for Australia’s leading all-natural skincare brand, but they’re divided by two decades, workplace status, and a dangerous pull neither of them wants to name out loud.

One of them harbours an obsessive appetite for infected skin, and what starts as a flirtation spirals into something far stranger: intimate, funny, confronting, and impossible to rinse clean.

Performance Dates: March 11 - 22 WedSat 7.30pm; Sun 5pm (90 minutes duration, no interval). Venue: Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre, 189 High St., Northcote Cheryl Threadgold

That was Reverend Buckley’s vision. That is our singular purpose—to develop young people of character. That is the spirit of the Round Square IDEALS. And it is this kind of leadership that matters deeply in the world we share. ● ● ● ● David Massingham and Louisa Fitzhardinge. Photo: Mark Gambino.

■ Opera for the Dead is a modern Chinese cyber-opera that delves into the connection between life, death and mourning as an embodied, multi-sensory ritual. It is being presented from February 26 - March 1 at Arts Housethe North Melbourne Town Hall

Fresh from acclaimed sold-out seasons at Asia TOPA, OzAsia Festival and Sydney Festival, Opera for the Dead is created by award-winning composer and Guzheng artist Mindy Meng Wang and sound technologist-composer Monica Lim.

Arts House will transform into a dynamic world, where ancient Chinese funerary traditions meet futuristic sonic architecture. This work features the ancient Guzheng , blended with live music, vocals, electronic soundscapes, 3D animation and performance.

Opera for the Dead is like a congregation where audiences can wander freely through the space as the atmosphere transitions between quiet reflection, striking spectacle and shared celebration.

Drawing on traditional Chinese mourning rituals, Opera for the Dead speaks to universal experiences of death, grief and ancestry. It exposes the dissonance between contemporary pressures of digital convenience, materialism and performative grief.

Mindy Meng Wang said: “This work is a celebration of memory and an offering of music and art for the dead. It’s about finding beauty and connection in grief, and the light in the darkness.”

Monica Lim added: “We wanted to create a space to journey between past and present, reality and imagination. Audiences can experience music, movement and technology in a way that mirrors how memory and mourning are layered in our own lives.”

Arts House Head of Programming Naomi Velaphi described the work as rethinking how audiences engage with music and ritual performance.

Wang is a leading figure in contemporary Chinese music, bridging traditional Guzheng performance with Western composition and committed to amplifying voices of young female composers and artists of Chinese heritage.

Lim is a composer and sound artist whose work spans installations, contemporary dance and experimental performance, combining technology with music to create transformative audience experiences.

Opera for the Dead features animations designed by digital artist Rel Pham , whose video installation When Your Number's Up is showing at the Arts House during the season.

The work continues Arts House’s commitment to bold, cross-disciplinary work that challenges audiences while amplifying diverse cultural voices.

Performance Season: February 26March 1; Thu – Fri, 7.30pm, Sat, 2pm and 7.30pm Sun, 5pm; Fri Feb 27: Postshow artist talk

Duration: 50 minutes, no interval

Venue: Arts House – North Melbourne Town Hall, 521 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne Bookings: artshouse.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold with Ben Starick

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2026

Doctors arrive

■ Bairnsdale Regional Health Service has officially entered a new chapter in medical education, welcoming its inaugural cohort of third-year Monash Rural Health students.

The four aspiring doctors – Max Maccora, Hussain Al-Ibrahim , and Devmith Pathirannehelage from Melbourne , along with Olini Hettiarachchi from Brisbane – arrived on Monday, February 2, to begin their Year 3B clinical placement.

Bairnsdale Advertiser

Agricultural Merit

■ Pierre-André Imbert, Ambassador of France to Australia , bestowed the French National Order of Agricultural Merit upon Sandra Ira in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the promotion of French agricultural products, producers and savoir-faire in Australia Ms Ira is co-founder of the somerton-based France At Home.

VicGrid Board

■ VicGrid has announced its Board is complete with the appointment of three new members who all have strong track records serving their communities.

Lily D’Ambrosio, Minister for Energy and Resources appointed Board Chair Steve Rieniets , Deputy Chair Sarah Clarke and two board members, David Stegehuis and Kane Thornton

VicGrid late last year became a state business corporation reporting to an independent board and formally took up responsibility for planning and delivering Victoria’s shared transmission network and renewable energy zones.

Regional care

■ The Good Friday Appeal, in partnership with the Royal Children’s Hospital, has announced $3 million in funding to support regional healthcare in Victoria

Announced at Grampians Health in Ballarat, the funding to more than 30 regional health services, to ensure every child receives the best possible healthcare, no matter their postcode.

As the Good Friday Appeal marks 95 years of community support, sick children and their families in regional Victoria will continue to access worldclass care closer to home.

Grains Conference

■ The future of smart farming technology in the grains sector will be on show at the upcoming VFF Grains Conference to be held in Yarrawonga on February 22-23.

VFF Grains President Ryan Milgate said the event promises interesting insight for growers, industry stakeholders, agribusiness leaders on the next generation on on-farm practices.

Almond farm sold

■ A fertiliser company has bought a Sunraysia almond farm after the collapse of a US investment fund, reports Stock & Land.

“The Robinvale-based Dual Chelate Fertilizer has emerged as the buyer of the Thurla orchards - a 2682 hectare (6627 acre) landholding planted to 565ha of almonds at Red Cliffs,” said the newspaper.

“The company, which says it is a plant nutrient specialist, is believed to have spent just over $20 million on the orchards,” noted Stock & Land.

SHIRE WELCOMES BUSHFIRE INQUIRY

■ Murrindindi Shire Counci l has welcomed the Victorian Parliament’s Inquiry into the 2026 summer fires.

It has formally calledfor the submission deadline to be extended to allow meaningful participation from the communities most heavily impacted.

Murrindindi Shire experienced almost half of the total statewide impact from the 2026 summer fires, including 193 homes destroyed, making it the hardest-hit municipality in Victoria

Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher has written to the Premier and Leader of the Opposition requesting a two-month extension, noting that Murrindindi Shire has experienced a disproportionate share of the impacts of the fires across the municipality.

The Longwood Fire continues to generate ongoing response and relief consequences, and recovery activity is now underway with a long journey ahead.

Cr Gallagher said Council supports the establishment of the Inquiry and its intent, but the current deadline of March 15 does not reflect the realities facing fire-affected communities.

“We welcome the Inquiry and the opportunity for lessons to be learned,” Cr Gallagher said.

“However, our community is still in the early stages of recovery. Many residents remain displaced, households are still stabilising, and families, farmers and businesses are focused on meeting immediate needs and rebuilding their lives.”

Since January 9, local communities across Murrindindi have led relief efforts, including the operation of community-led relief hubs, often in isolated conditions due to road closures, extended loss of power and telecommunication and dangerous access constraints.

Volunteer groups, local CFA brigades and community organisations continue to provide sustained on-the-ground support.

The Council itself remains under significant and sustained operational pressure, supporting ongoing response and relief activities while coordinating the clearance of more than 450 kilometres of fire-impacted local roads to restore safe access for residents, emergency services, utilities and recovery providers.

At the same time, Council is establishing new teams, governance arrangements and systems to support medium and longterm recovery, with many staff directly impacted by the fires and redeployed into emergency-related roles.

Cr Gallagher said expecting those with direct lived experience of the fires to prepare considered submissions at this stage places an unreasonable burden on already traumatised communities.

“The impacts on our residents, businesses and community groups are still very raw,” he said.

“It is unreasonable to expect people who are displaced, rebuilding, managing stock losses or dealing with ongoing trauma to have the time, capacity or emotional bandwidth to engage meaningfully with the Inquiry at this point, and they need their voices to be heard.”

Murrindeindi Council is seeking a twomonth extension to May 15 to ensure submissions from heavily impacted rural communities are informed, reflective and of genuine value to the Inquiry’s outcomes.

“For this Inquiry to be effective, it must hear accurate, comprehensive and evidence-based information that reflects both the immediate response and the full impacts experienced by rural and regional communities,” Cr Gallagher said.

“An extended timeframe would ensure those most affected can participate in a way that is fair, considered and proportionate to the scale of impact experienced in Murrindindi Shire.”

The Council will continue to encourage community members to make a submission when they feel ready and able to do so, recognising that revisiting fire experiences may be difficult for many.

Gas closure for 10 country towns

■ David Davis MLC says that Victorians will have greater transparency over Labor’s decision to close several regional gas networks.

The State Government last August announced it will phase out compressed natural gas delivered by Solstice Energy from 10 regional Victorian towns, including Robinvale, Swan Hill, Kerang, Nathalia, Marong, Maldon, Heathcote, Terang, Lakes Entrance and Orbost

The Government will be required to release documents relating to this matter.

““The communities and businesses in these towns are owed the transparency over why this decision was made and how it will impact them,” Mr Davis said, after the reporting requirements were passed in the Legislative Council.

Whiparound

Cattle outlook

■ Producer confidence across Australia’s grassfed beef sector has surged to its strongest level in recent years, according to the latest Beef Producers Intentions Survey from Meat & Livestock Australia.

Almost 80 per cent of producers report a positive outlook for the year ahead, marking a significant lift in sentiment across every state and both major production systems.

Aquaculture boost

■ An Australian island’s efforts to improve food security and transition into a blue economy will be bolstered by a new project to propagate a nutritious and increasingly popular fish.

The project with Charles Darwin University, Groote Aqua Aboriginal Corporation and the CSIRO , through the agency’s Industry PhD Program, aims to expand GAAC’s low trophic aquaculture program by developing production methods for the goldlined rabbitfish.

Fast-track battery

■ A 400MW Battery Energy Storage System near Glenrowan has been approved by the State Government under their fast-tracking of renewable energy projects across the state.

Sonya Kilkenny, Minister for Planning, approved the project through the Development Facilitation Program along with a 300MW BESS in Heywood. Wangaratta Chronicle

Harfest returns

■ The Warrnambool Community Garden’s Harfest is back, taking over the quarry amphitheatre on Saturday, March 14 from 3pm to 7pm with music, laughter, good food and plenty of homegrown fun.

Returning for its second year, Harfest has been described as a joyful celebration of the seasonal harvest in one of Warrnambool’s most unique settings.

The once-abandoned quarry will spring to life with a lively mix of local musicians, DJs, workshops and food vendors, all coming together to raise funds for the garden’s ongoing operations.

Warrnambool Weekly

House won’t fall

■ Locals concerned about the historic Ostler’s House in Traralgon have nothing to worry about, reports the Latrobe Valley Express.

“As the Kay St-Grey St multi-level carpark etches closer to completion, some passing the beer garden of Hotel Traralgon (also known as Ryan’s Hotel) worried that the 130-year-old building at its rear could have been in the firing lines of the latest construction.”

Latrobe Valley Express

China cattle blow

■ David Littleproud, Leader of T he Nationals, said China’s decision to restrict the import of beef from Australia is extremely disappointing for the cattle industry.

China’s Ministry of Commerce has announced an added 55 per cent tariff on beef imports that exceed quota levels from several countries, including Australia

Cattle Australia is warning the beef industry stands to potentially lose $1 billion in beef exports, following the announcement.

■ Infertility and miscarriage are not usual subjects for a must-read novel.

But author Elisabeth Easther took her own experience and that of three friends as the inspiration for an awardwinning play that is now a novel called Seed.

It’s funny and honest as it follows four women navigating the chaos of modern fertility.

Elisabeth’s own experience of miscarriage and IVF are supplemented by the stories of Lana , who got pregnant with an IUD at 42, a midwife Elisabeth met at a party and eco-warrior, Sunshine , who works doing waste audits.

Viewers of the long-running New Zealand drama Shortland Street would know Elisabeth the actor as the villainous Nurse Carla, but she’s also an experienced journalist, playwright and environmentalist.

Elisabeth’s environmental pursuits range from cycling instead of driving to marine protection and pest-trapping to help native birds thrive, and she writes from an entirely off-grid holiday home on Rakino Island

Elisabeth says that writing about her life, as well as other people’s, is an occupational hazard, as she has been a writer for several decades.

“I often wonder: can I make a story out of this? In the case of Seed, it was a way of working through some stuff, so writing about personal things is a combination of catharsis and seeking to make a living,” Elisabeth explains candidly.

Seed is published by Penguin Random House and available online and wherever good books are sold.

Julie Houghton

Mushroom Lady & Me

■ Comedian and storyteller says - If you didn’t get a front row seat to the trial that gripped the nation, then don't worry - he has you covered.

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival show Mushroom Lady and Me arrives in Melbourne from March 25- 29, 31 and April 1 - 19 at the House of Maximon, Level 1/16 Corrs Lane.

As Associate to a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria, Joseph worked on the trial of Erin Patterson, now infamously known as The Mushroom Lady. After seven murder trials and months of working on the pre-trial for Ms Patterson. Joseph resigned and went to clown school.

As a result, Mushroom Lady and Me is touring Australia in 2026 and coming to the MICF , described as 'a show for anyone fascinated by trials, mushies and how not to cook with them.'

Joseph Green is a comedian and storyteller, and he’s performed stand-up across America, UK, Europe and India. An accomplished actor, Joseph appeared in the Superwog series Son of a Donkey ( Netflix) and trained with the Atlantic Theatre Company in New York. Joseph has also worked as a model in New York and Paris.

Performance Details: March 25 - 29, 31, April 1 - 19

Venue: House of Maximon, Level 1/16 Corrs Lane.

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au Cheryl Threadgold

Anything But the Dyson and Other Excellent Monologues

● Katrina Mathers in Anything But the Dyson and Other Excellent Monologues. Phot: Brent Lukey.

Shows

■ Torquay Theatre Troupe: The Gift (by Joanna Murray-Smith) March 19 –28 at the Shoestring Playhouse @ The MAC, 77 Beach Road, Torquay. Director: Natasha Boyd. Bookings: Trybooking.com.au

■ Essendon Theatre Company: The Rise and Fall of Little Voice (by Jim Cartwright) March 19 – 28 at the Bradshaw St. Community Hall, 9 Bradshaw St., Essendon. Director: Alexander Gibbs. Bookings: 0406448368 or Trybooking.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Auditions

■ The 1812 Theatre: Treasure Island February 22 from 6pm; February 23 from 7pm at The 1812 Theatre, Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Erin O’Hare. Audition enquiries:1812theatre. com.au/auditions/audition-notice-treasure-planet/

■ Peridot Theatre: The Cottage (by Sandy Rustin) February 23, 25 at 7pm; Callbacks March 2 at the Monash Theatrical Rehearsal and Resource Centre, formerly Fleigner Hall, Cnr Highland and Turnbull Aves., Oakleigh East. Director: Steve Saul. Audition details: peridot.com.au/auditions

■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: Boeing Boeing (by Marc Camoletti) February 25 at 7.30pm and February 28 at 11am at the Mechanics Hall, 80 Yarra Street, Warrandyte. Directors: Tegan DeClark and Taryn Johns. Audition enquiries: tegsandtaz+boeingboeing@ gmail.com

■ Beaumaris Theatre: Two Ladies (by Nancy Harris) February 28 at 10am, March 2 at 7pm at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Adam Rafferty. Audition bookings: beaumaristheatre.com.au

■ Brighton Theatre Company: Wicked Sisters (by Alma de Groen) March 1 at 2pm, March 2 at 7pm at the Brighton Arts and Cultural Centre, Cnr Wilson and Carpenter Sts., Brighton. Director: L.B. Bradley and Michaela Smith. Audition bookings and enquiries: aurachaela@gmail.com

Cheryl Threadgold

■ After a 23-year hiatus, double cancer survivor and previous Moosehead Awardwinner Katrina Mathers returns to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival from March 26 to April 19 at the Black Box Theatre, 5-6/48 Easey St, Collingwood Premiering her latest work, Anything ButTheDysonandOtherExcellentMonologues, at Collingwood’s newest and most eclectic arts hub - the Black Box Theatre at Trainscendence - MICF audiences can expect a rollercoaster expose about the joys of sweating, swearing, dating, menopause meltdowns, cold-water triumphs, memory loss... and more.

Created by Katrina Mathers and directed by Roz Hammond , Anything But The Dyson and Other Excellent Monologues features Katrina's own work and that of other local female writers.

A series of clever and self-contained stories, and reflections about midlife mayhem, this new Australian comedy places a spotlight on the complex love-hate relationship of owning a Dyson vacuum cleaner, interwoven with other monologues about slamming into your 50s.

Best known as newsreader spoof Sandra Sultry on Channel 10’s sketch series The Wedge, where she was one of the regular main ensemble writer/performers, Katrina Mathers was last seen on stage in Skating in the Clouds at Theatre Works

She has an extensive career in film and television with credits including Blue Heelers, Wilfred, City Homicide, Economy Class, and ABC’s sketch series Flipsidewhich she co-created.

She was a lead voice artist on the longrunning ABC 774 radio serial, The Breakfast Shift, has won awards for the web series Incoming: Words of War, played a depressed mum in Tones and I’s Never Seen the Rain music video (38million+ views), and was the nurse in the original Saw short film.

Comedy lovers are invited to join Katrina on a fun journey of navigating the wonders of menopause. 'Older, hotter, funnier.'

Performance Details:

Full Season: March 26 - April 19, MonSun at 6pm (no shows Wednesdays) Opening Night: March 30 at 6pm.

Venue: Black Box Theatre at Trainscendence, 5-6/48 Easey St., Collingwood Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au

Duration: 50 minutes, no interval Ages: 15+ recommended Warnings: Course language Cheryl Threadgold

Shows

■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre: The Game’s Afoot or Holmes for the Holidays (by Ken Ludwig) Until February 28 at Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre, 39-41 Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Lucia Morris. Bookings: 9735 1777 lilydaleatc.com

■ PEP Productions: Ride the Cyclone, Until February 21 at the Doncaster Playhouse. Director: Daniel Kim; Musical Director: Isaac Stott; Choreographer: Maya Lee. Bookings: trybooking.com/ DEZRE

■ Williamstown Little Theatre: The Browning Version/South Downs (by Terrence Rattigan and David Hare) Until February 28 at Williamstown Little Theatre, 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Two plays presented as a double bill. Director: Deborah Fabbro. Bookings: wlt.org.au

■ Brighton Theatre Company: Baby (by Sybille Pearson, based on a story developed with Susan Yankowitz, music by David Shire, and lyrics by Richard Maltby Jr. Until February 28 at Brighton Arts and Cultural Centre, Cnr. Carpenter and Wilson Sts., Brighton. Director: Alan Burrows. Bookings: 0493 069 479 www.brightontheatre.com.au

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Love, Loss and What I Wore (By Nora Ephron and Delia Ephron, based on the book by Ilene Beckerman) Until February 28 at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Catherine Christensen. Bookings: www.htc.org.au Phone: 9457 4117.

■ Malvern Theatre Company: The Tin Woman (by Sean Grennan) Until February 28 at 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East. Director: Brett Turner-Valenta. Bookings: Phone 1300 131 552, or online malverntheatre.com.au/book-tickets

■ The 1812 Theatre: Clue on Stage, February 19 – March 14 at The Lowe Auditorium, The 1812 Theatre, Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Rob Blowers. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au

■ The Basin Theatre: Heatstroke (by Eric Chappell) February 19 – March 1 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Directed by Pip Le Blond. Bookings: thebasin.sales.ticketsearch.com/ sales/sales Phone: 0494 065 006 Email: tickets@thebasintheatre.org.au

■ Peridot Theatre: A Night on the Tiles (by Suzanne Hawley) February 20 –March 1 at the Clayton Community Centre, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: Samsara. Bookings: peridot.sales.ticket search.com/sales/sales

■ Eltham Little Theatre: Bondi Legal (by Tony Laumberg) February 20 –March 7 at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Rd., Eltham. Director: Susan Rundle. Bookings: eltham littletheatre.org.au

■ The Mount Players: The Cemetery Club (by Ivan Menchell) February 20 –March 8 at The Mountview Theatre, 56 Smith St., Macedon. Director: George Benca. Bookings: themountplayers.com

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: The Great Divide (by David Williamson) February 26 – March 7 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Director: Damien Jones. Bookings: mordialloctheatre.com.au

■ Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria (GSOV) The Arcadians (by Gilbert and Sullivan) Feb 28, March 1, 7, 8, 9 at 2pm, outdoors at The Knowe, 4 Clarkmont Rd.,Sassafras. Tickets: trybooking.com/ DEGSY Also, indoors on March 13, 14 at 8pm and March 14 and 15 at 2pm at The Round - Studio, 379-399 Whitehorse Rd., Nunawading. Director: Robert Ray. Tickets theround.com.au/ TheArcadiansGSOV

■ Phoenix Theatre Company: One More Time, February 27 – March 7 at the Doncaster Playhouse. Bookings: phoenixtheatrecompany.org/

■ Beaumaris Theatre: Chalkface (by Angela Betzian) March 6 – 21 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Samantha Stone. Bookings: www.trybooking.com/ DHUKF

■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: The Vagina Monologues by V. (Eve Ensler), March 13 – 28 at the Mechanics Hall, 80 Yarra Street, Warrandyte. Director: Caroline Shaw. Bookings: trybooking.com/DGYKH

■ Nova Music Theatre: The Sound of Music, March 20 – 29 at The Round, Nunawading. Bookings: novamusic theatre. com.au/

Rourke’s Reviews Entertainment

Opera For All Concert

■ BMW and Opera Australia announce the return of Opera For All to Fed Square, Melbourne, on Saturday, March 14 from 6.30pm to 8 pm for a fourth consecutive year. This global initiative brings world-class opera to the public free of charge in cities including Munich, Berlin and London , in collaboration with leading local opera organisations around the world.

The 2026 performance will feature an all-new line-up of four acclaimed opera singers performing some of the most celebrated arias in the repertoire.

The evening will be hosted by Greta Bradman , awardwinning soprano, writer and ABC broadcaster, who will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Adding to the occasion, First Nations opera singer ShauntaiAbdul-Rahman will perform a special Welcome to Country.

BMW Opera for All will offer a spectacular evening of open-air music in the heart of Melbourne

Renowned conductor Brian Castles-Onion will return to lead the performance, with the Australian Girls Choir opening the evening with a 20-minute prelude.

As the sun sets over Fed Square , four of Australia’s leading opera singers, supported by 20 musicians from Orchestra Victoria , will present a repertoire of operatic favourites. BMW Opera for All is part of BMW’s global commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility, supporting arts and culture at both international and local levels.

Opera Australia CEO Alex Budd said: “We’re delighted to partner with BMW to present an evening of opera that’s accessible to all –whether it’s an audience member experiencing their first or their 50th aria.

“As we celebrate 70 years in 2026, our job is the same - to make vibrant, relevant and artistically ambitious work, nurturing the artists who embody our creative spirit, and to welcome audiences to join us to experience this beloved artform at its very best.”

Event Details: Saturday, March 14, 6.30pm to 8pm

Venue: Fed Square, Cnr Flinders and Swanston Sts., Melbourne

Running Time: 1 Hour, 30 Minutes.

Admittance: Free

Cheryl Threadgold

La Mama:

Te Maunga

■ La Mama Theatre presents Antipodes Theatre Company's production of Back to Te Maunga from March 4 - 22 at La Mama Courthouse, Carlton.

Written by Joel Te Teira and directed by Keegan

Bragg , the story tells of Tane and Isaac returning to a cabin from their youth on the anniversary of their best friend's passing.

They plan to drink, sing and reminisce. But with the Maunga looming over their heads and hearts, can the two men finally confront the truth?

Described as a 'riveting, original Maori drama', the play tests the friendships of men and the relationship one has with their own history.

Performed by Joe DekkersReihana and Jordan Selwyn

Performance Season: March 4 - 22

Venue: La Mama Courthouse

Duration: 70 Minutes

Bookings and Further Details: lamama.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Skank Sinatra

■ Skank Sinatra : The Name On Everybody’s Lips is a fun, entertaining, musical cabaret written/performed by the very talented Jens Radda

In nine inch heels with large, blonde, very well fitted hair, colourful costumes, live music, story telling, ‘Skank’ captured everyone in the audience, gaining a lot of laughs.

This show is cleverly directed by Carly Fisher with Skank utilising every part of the theatre.

With pre-recorded advice from ‘ Liza Minnelli ’ during costume changes this also applies to backstage leaving never a dull moment.

Skank made a striking entrance - she is larger than life with interesting stories punctuated with parodies of songs from Evita to The sound of Music - there was plenty of variety, plenty of opportunities for Radda to shine.

The singing was not flawless. Some songs suited Radda’s voice better than others, but all were with gusto, passion, humour to keep our interest, not to mention the fascination with seeing ‘her’ move around effortlessly amongst the audience in stilettos.

The audience interaction worked well, everyone took it in good spirit – Skank was very likable. So too was Sarah Nandagopan on keyboard. Her smile was captivating as she allowed Skank to use her in the comedy. She seemed genuinely happy to be there. It may have added to the overall look to see Nandagopan in costume rather than black, she looked like backstage crew- this did work for the comedic entrance. yet it would have added something to see her in costume also- though perhaps not as flamboyant.

For an entertaining, musical hour of cabaret this ‘highcamp’, high hair, high heels musical ‘razzle dazzle’ is a go to. Well done on a Melbourne debut.

skank-sinatra.com

Reviewed by Elizabeth Semmel

● ● Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal collision in Oakleigh on Sunday morning (Feb. 15). Emergency services responded to reports of a collision between a vehicle and a motorcycle at the intersection of North Rd and Golf Links Ave about 11.30am. CPR was performed on the motorcyclist, a 26-year-old Bentleigh man, who died at the scene.

Ovation tour

■ Four of Australia's leading musical theatre and opera stars unite for the first time in Ovation - a concert featuring timeless classics from shows such as The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, Cats, Mamma Mia and Disney’s Beauty and the Beast , as well as operatic masterpieces including La bohème and more.

Together, these musical theatre stars represent decades of combined experience and now they come together for a showcase of their exceptional talent.

The show's touring destination in Victoria includes a performance on Sunday, March 8 at 1 pm at Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne , and other dates in regional and suburban venues.

Marina Prior is known as Australia's leading lady of musical theatre and has starred in over 40 musicals including her portrayal of Christine Daaé in the original Australian production of The Phantom of the Opera, and Les Misérables, Cats,The Pirates of Penzance, Anything Goes, West Side Story, The Sound of Music, Hello Dolly, Dream Lover, 9 to 5 The Musical and, more recently, Follies and Kimberly Akimbo.

David Hobson , regarded as one of Australia’s most distinguished tenors, starred in Baz Luhrmann’s landmark staging of La Bohème and has performed key roles in Don Giovanni, Così fan tutte, Orpheus and Eurydice and The Barber of Seville. David’s musical theatre credits include ChittyChittyBangBang,Follies and Funny Girl.

Silvie Paladino is renowned for her powerhouse performances, with standout roles in Les Misérables (both Australian and West End productions), Miss Saigon, The King and I, Mamma Mia, Chess and Sunset Boulevard. Silvie has graced stages alongside Australia’s leading orchestras and toured internationally.

Michael Cormick is an internationally acclaimed baritone whose commanding voice has made him a standout in Australia , the UK and Europe . His Australian credits include Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Cats, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Grease, The Rocky Horror Show, Mamma Mia, Annie, The Pirates of Penzance and The Phantom of the Opera. Michael’s international experience spans lead roles in Chess, Evita, The Woman in White and Sunset Boulevard He has also performed in prestigious Royal Command Performances.

Accompanied by piano and a string quartet, these four stars will blend their voices in a concert of musical theatre and opera classics.

Sylvie Paladino says: 'Performing in Melbourne is so special as I’m a Melbourne girl. I wouldn’t live anywhere else. Hamer Hall is such a beautiful space, wonderful acoustics. I’ve performed there so many times, it feels like home when I’m there.'

Victorian Performance Details: Sun. Feb 22. Wendouree Performing Arts Centre, Ballarat. 4pm Sat. Feb. 28. The Playhouse, Geelong. 2pm Sun. Mar. 1. Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo. 3pm Sun. Mar. 8. Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne 1pm Sat. Jun. 6 . Gippsland Arts Centre, Traralgon 3pm Sun. Jun. 7. Frankston Arts Centre 1pm For tickets visit: ovation.net.au

Pillion■ (R). 107 minutes. Opens in selected cinemas February 19.

This provocative but poignant comedy/drama, the impressive feature film directorial debut of Harry Lighton , may deal with adult subject matter, but handles it in a manner that is refreshingly made for adults, rather than going for cheap shocks and sensationalism.

Harry Melling, delivering an exceptional performance, plays Colin , a shy, emotionally constrained gay man who is uncertain how to spread his wings, or define what he wants in life (amusingly, he is part of a barbershop quartet).

Colin lives with his parents, Peggy (Lesley Sharp) and Peter (Douglas Hodge) , who always show him unconditional love, even if his mother’s love borders on smothering.

They are dealing with the fact that Peggy has stage four cancer.

One Christmas night while performing at their local pub, Colin meets an enigmatic and very handsome biker named Ray (Alexander Skarsgard), and is immediately drawn to him.

Surprisingly, Ray shows interest in Colin , giving him a time to meet.

The two do meet, exchanging more than pleasantries, and this is where Colin discovers that the kind of relationship Ray is seeking is one where he is the dominator, and Colin will be his submissive.

Colin , still undecided in what he wants, dives into this opportunity, as the feelings between them seems strong.

Colin’s looks and behaviour change as this new world is opened up to him, much to his mother’s disdain, but as the relationship continues, Colin’s sense of identity will form, leading him to make some lifechanging decisions.

Pillion could have easily wallowed in its particular content to attract lazy controversy.

But while it does contain graphic scenes, they are never salacious or sleazy, instead introducing most audiences (like its main character) to a very specific kind of love and devotion, one that may seem alien to us, but is presented in a non-judgmental, even tender manner, allowing us to understand what these people are feeling.

Along with Melling, there is also a quietly outstanding turn from Skarsgard , who beautifully alternates Ray between harsh dominator to moments of genuine care and sweetness.

Sharp and Hodge are great, and the biker gang members are all perfectly cast.

Lighton , working strongly as writer (based on the book by Adam Mars-Jones) and director, shows a deft, intelligent and very human hand in bringing this story to the screen, and I can’t wait to see what he does next.

Pillion will definitely offend some, while others won’t be able to accept the type of relationship C olin wants, but for those who want to be both challenged and enthralled (mixed with a terrific, off-centre sense of humour), this will offer many rewards.

RATING - ****

Fackham Hall

■ (M). 97 minutes. Opens in cinemas February 19.

A 10-minute skit is painfully stretched to feature length in this forced, obvious and largely unfunny parody of stuffy period British TV shows, but Downton Abbey in-particular.

Five writers (including comedian Jimmy Carr , who also came up with the ‘idea’, and appears onscreen as the local vicar) are unable to successfully skewer its topic, with director Jim O’Hanlon ( 100 Streets) allowing audiences to see each joke coming from a hundred miles away.

Any gag that does amuse, is usually something happening at the edge of frame.

The capable cast tries (Thomasin McKenzie is especially wasted), but all are left floundering from the weak material and clunky direction.

Fackham Hall wants to be the Naked Gun of period parodies, but never comes close to achieving that lofty goal.

RATING - **

Whistle

■ (MA). 100 minutes. Now showing in cinemas. In the wake of the unexpectedly successful Final Destination reboot comes Whistle, but what could have been a fun, throwaway horror entry, just goes through the motions, offering nothing new or entertaining.

A standard group of high school students come across an ancient Aztec whistle, which when used, brings forward a person’s fated death, whatever that may be.

The race to try and reverse the curse begins. Takashi Miike’s One Missed Call comes to mind, as does The Frighteners and Flatliners during the finale.

Corin Hardy (who helmed the awful The Nun and the okay The Hallow) directs things with dull, static mediocrity, never seeming invested at all in the script (the references to other films and filmmakers are extremely laboured).

Two deaths are admittedly well executed and inventive, and Sky Yang is likeable as Rel , but this is by-the-numbers stuff.

RATING - **

Aaron Rourke

GRADUATE EXHIBITION AT BUNJIL PLACE

Theatre Extra

Open Score

■

Emergent 2025: Graduate Exhibition

Experience the extraordinary talent of emerging artists, designers and filmmakers from the local region at Emergent 2025: Graduate Exhibition.

Presented annually, Emergent celebrates and recognises the creative achievements of VCE and VET design, media and visual art students.

■

■

■ For 120 years, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra has helped shape the sound of Melbourne – and the many communities, places and people within it. In 2026, the MSO is opening the score.

Open Score is a bold new community composition initiative launched as part of the MSO’s 120th anniversary, inviting people of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate with the MSO by creating and sharing their own original music in response to a theme: Sense of Place

Open to everyone across Australia, Open Score removes traditional barriers to orchestral music-making. No formal musical training is required – the project offers an open opportunity for anyone with an idea, sound, or story to express it through music.

“Open Score is part of our ongoing commitment to access, inclusion and shared cultural ownership. It celebrates creativity in all its forms and reflects our belief that orchestral music belongs not just on the concert hall stage, but in the lives, places and imaginations of people everywhere,” MSO CEO Richard Wigley said.

Open Score prioritises expression above technical perfection, with participants encouraged to explore their own sense of place through music - reflecting on who they are, where they call home and why, and what music means to them.

The initiative will capture a musical snapshot of community for the Orchestra’s 120th year, through personal responses that connect identity, memory, and place through sound.

Participants of any age or background are invited to submit a 1-2 minute original, unperformed work that is not AI-generated.

Submissions will be reviewed throughout the year by the MSO’s Artistic and Learning & Engagement teams. Selected works may be recorded by MSO musicians, shared across MSO digital and social platforms, and in rare cases, workshopped or performed live. Selected composers will receive a recording of their work.

Waitress cast announced

■ Producer John Frost has nnounced the cast for the Australian premiere of Broadway’s musical Waitress, which will open at Her Majesty’s Theatre Melbourne from May 1. Tickets are now on sale at WaitresstheMusical.com.au .

Leading the cast as Jenna will be Natalie Bassingthwaighte (Chicago, Shirley Valentine), while Gabriyel Thomas (Cats, Sister Act) and Mackenzie Dunn (Grease, Annie) play Becky and Dawn, Jenna’s coworkers at the diner.

Rob Mills (& Juliet, Wicked) will play Dr Pomatter, and legendary actor John Waters (The Woman in Black, Play School) will be Joe , the owner of the diner.

One of Australia’s most popular leading ladies of stage and screen, Natalie Bassingthwaighte will play Jenna , an unhappily married waitress in a small US town.

Natalie’s music career has seen her achieve acclaim as one of only 20 Australian solo female artists to reach Number One on the ARIA Album Charts with her solo album, 1000 Stars

Direct from her acclaimed performance as Grizabella in the national tour of Cats, the role of Becky , the irascible waitress with a wicked sense of humour, will be played by Gabriyel Thomas

Most recently seen on stage as Lily St Regis in the Australian tour of Annie, Mackenzie Dun n will be Dawn , the eccentric youngest waitress at the diner.

Charming stage and screen star Rob Mills will be playing Dr Pomatter, Jenna’s endearing but neurotic gynaecologist. As Joe, the curmudgeonly diner owner who has a soft spot for Jenna, will be stage icon John Waters

■ Many say that February 3, 1959, was the day the music died. Three young popular Rock’n Roll singers were killed in a plane crash that night after having performed at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa

Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J. P. Richardson were at the peak of their singing careers at that time.

Jiles Perry Richardson was born in 1930 and had been a successful songwriter. He wrote Running Bear for Johnny Preston and is one of the backing singers on the hit record.

Jiles was working as a disc jockey at radio station KTRM when fellow Texan, Buddy Holly , invited him to join the Winter Dance Party tour.

Jiles was happily married with a young daughter and another child on the way.

He had created ‘ The Big Bopper ’, an outlandish character with phrases such as “Hello Baby” and “You Know What I Like.”

His hit songs included Chantilly Lace, The Big Boppers Wedding and White Lightnin’

Shortly after his death his wife gave birth to Jay P. Richardson Jnr who was to grow up hearing about the fame of his father. In his later years he was performing onstage and singing his father’s songs. Young Jay would be confronted by people who claimed that they knew what had happened that night.

They would tell him that his father was shot on the plane before it crashed. These storiesandrumoursworriednotonly Jay

Emergent 2025 creates a platform for emerging artists to present their work in a professional setting, while providing an aspirational goal for students on year 10 ande11.

Immerse yourself in the future of art and design, and witness the next wave of artists, designers, makers and photographers.

Emergent 2025: Graduate Exhibition presents an exciting array of works across a range of mediums, including textiles and fibre, ceramics, wood, sculpture, photomedia, , drawing, graphic design,, printmaking, digital art, animation and short film.

Exhibition opens March 5 and closes March 22

★

The Offbeat Sari

A major exhibition celebrating the contemporary sari. This exhibition unveils its numerous forms, demonstrating the sari to be a metaphor for the layered and complex designs of India today.

It brings together the finest saris if our time from designers, weavers and craftspeople in India. In recent years, the sari has been reinvented.

Designers are experimenting with hybrid forma such as sari gowns and dresses, pre-draped saris and innovative materials such as steel.

People in cities who used to associate the sari with dressing up can now be found wearing saris as an expression of resistance to social norms and activists are embodying it as an object pf protest.

Exhibition opens March 22 and closes August 30.

Bunjil Place

2 Patrick North East Dve, Narre warren

Abbotsford Gallery

Art of the Serene - Chengrong Zhu

Be transported to a serene world of magic and wonder in this beautiful new show by traditional Chinese artist Chengrong Zhu.

The Abbotsford Convent has always been a hotspot for the arts in Melbourne after it rapidly become Australia’s largest arts and cultural precinct.

Since the grand buildings and gardens were converted to the arts complex, in recent years it has also become a hot destination for the local Chinese community and visitors from China. As co-owner of Holy Grail Plants, Mao Xu catered for the finer cultural taste in Tea, Art Plants and. Exhibition closes May 1.

Abbotsford Convent Gallery

1 St. Heliers St, Abbotsford

MAPh

■ Daniel Temesgen’s practice is a meditation on

Whatever Happened to ... The Big Bopper

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

but his entire family. As a result Jay had his father’s casket exhumed in 2007 from Forest Lawn Cemetery in Beaumon t so a forensic anthropologist could confirm the cause of death. He was reburied in a new casket.

I was always a big fan of The Big Bopper and it is hard to believe that it is now 67 years since we lost those three young entertainers in that light plane crash. Sadly J.P. Richardson Jnr died in 2017 as the result of a heart condition at the age of 58. What a sad story. Kevin can be heard on 3AWThe Time Tunnel - Remember When - Sundays at 10.10pm with Simon Owens and Andrew McLaren. And on 96.5 FM. That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon. www.innerfm.org.au

With Peter Kemp

country. Friendship, joy and collective identity anchor the ages, ending the traditions of photographic portraiture to present youth as multifaced. Resilient and deeply connected to place.

Motifs such as ballroom glowing skies and open water extend the portraits into the allegorical, evoking celebration, frequently, freedom, and drift, maintaining the a focus on the singular presence of each person.

Exhibition closes February 22.

★

Lights – Valeerly Taouk

‘Lights’ brings together reprinting graph iced drawings made by Taluk’s brothers, sequenced through a mechanised slide projector and projected onto a dark wall.

As the two video frames drift in and out of sync, light appears to physical weight and at perceptible speed.

Featuring recurring motifs such as return capsules, [parachutes, schoolhouses and animals, the work navigates between turmoil and safety, helplessness and hope.

Exhibition closes February 22.

MAPh 860 Ferntree Gully Rd, Wheelers Hill Peter Kemp

African Film Fest

■ Africa Film Fest Australia is making its Melbourne debut this March, bringing a threeday program of acclaimed African cinema to Cinema Nova from March 27–29. The Festival arrives in Melbourne with award-winning films, Melbourne premieres and post-screening Q&As, spotlighting contemporary stories from Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Sudan, Algeria and Guinea-Bissau. The Opening Night film officially selected for Venice International Film Festival

Potter Museum of Art

■ Until June 6, the University of Melbourne’s Potter Museum of Art will present an ambitious exhibition curated by Chus Martínez titled A velvet ant, a flower and a bird.

Ukelele Festival

■ Melbourne Ukelele Festival will play out from March 27-29 along High St in Northcote.

MUF has become an annual musical institution with workshops, performances, local and international acts and experts, as well as a musicians marketplace. More details and tickets at Humanitix.com

Port Fairy

■ The much loved Port Fairy Music Festival is with us again for 2026.

The March long weekend will see the 49th festival feature over 90 acts from soloists to bands and include overseas guests as well.

Partners include both the State and Federal Governments , Local Government and Deakin University plus numerous businesses.

It’s Shane

■ Multi-award winner Shane Nicholson will perform at the Bayview Country Art Club In The House series of concerts from 2pm-5pm on Saturday, July 25. The intimate style show offers an acoustic setting where the audience can appreciate and absorb the lyrics of his songs, says their media release. Tickets and more info at Humanitix.com

● ● ● ● Kate Ceberano is undertaking a 2026 encore tour around Australia, as well as a show in London. The 30-date run will begin in September.

Neighbours alumni gather at Flinders

■ A new Australian play starring Neighbours alumni premieres at Flinders Fringe Festival 2026.

Soapboxed is a new Australian play written by Megan Herbert (Neighbours, EastEnders, 2024 Australian Political Cartoonist of the Year), developed from an idea by Lucinda Cowden ( Neighbours). It premieres as a rehearsed reading at the Flinders Fringe Festival on the Mornington Peninsula on Saturday, February 28.

Performed by a cast of Australian television legends and local Mornington Peninsula artists, Soapboxed examines the state of the arts, artists and audiences as they navigate an increasingly fractured media and technology landscape in 2026.

Featuring a cast of Australian acting legends (including Lucinda Cowden, Ryan Moloney and Takaya Honda from Neighbours, Sally-Anne Upton from Neighbours, Wentworth, and AACTA Award-winning Best Film BringHerBack, English/Australian comedian and actor John Voce from Goolagong and Downton Abbey, and Mornington Peninsula’s Queen of song, Martine Halliday , this play oTers laughter, tears, romance, a race against the clock, and plenty of emotional twists and turns (just like a good soap).

This production marks the first public reunion of the

Neighbours alumni since the iconic soap opera ended its record-breaking 40-year run.

There are plans to tour the UK later in the year in response to fan demand.

“It’s about the future of the arts, and all of the different things artists are dealing with at the moment,” Lucinda Cowden said.

“So, it’s very relevant, and very topical.”

Megan and Lucinda , former Neighbours colleagues, began developing Soapboxed during the show’s turbulent final years.

Having worked in the UK and Europe , they observed that soap opera skills were more highly valued overseas than in Australia

As Neighbours ended amid growing pressures on the arts, from chronic underfunding to shrinking screen quotas and the rise of AI, Soapboxed emerged as a response, asking audiences to consider what is lost when the arts and artists are pushed to the margins.

“We wanted to honour all the best elements of soap storytelling while also tapping into a bigger conversation about the Arts and how we value them, or not, with everyone’s attention so fractured as it is now,” Herbert said.

The Flinders Fringe Festival, now in its fourth year, was established in 2023 by Melissa Jackson and Claire Thorn Kim Taylor

Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court Criminal Court Listings Wednesday, February 18 Abdulaal, Fahad Ahern, Mark Aldielmi, Ali Amboka, Peter Anderson, Steven Ascone, Rocco Austin, Dakota Bader, Ali Sammey Batikh, Ibrahim Beaton, Kylie Bennett, Elsie Brown, Pale Ceyhan, Aydin Chahanti, Sirkanth Charlton, Matthew Connell, Sean Cosgrove, Belinda Cullen, Michael Dalston, Hayes Davies, Jarrod Duncan, Stephen Ellis, Wingara El-Terekman, Mostafa Farah, Abdisamad Farid, Noah Fazzalari, Mark Anthony Foreman, Robert Fusion Bonded Epoxy Pty Ltd Greenaway, Jennifer Greganic, Damian Hainey, Elizabeth Hantiz-Obodi, Andrew Harfouche, Howsam Harrison, Tyisha Chyanne Hayes, Christopher Hayes, Dalston Haynes, Hayden Headey, Emily Hooman, Homaei-Bagha Hope, Jayden Ilgaz, Emir Ali Jabbour, Anthony Kirk, Christopher Kohzadi, Rahim Krywyn, Maurice Charles Larzaris, Jim Leonidou, Leon Levi, Eugene Levy Lovelace, Tamara Lul, Nyajouk Lupton, Samantha Makar, Mary Mcgrath, Casie Meletsis, Chris Mioni, Jake David Moshi, Poles Mullens, Daniel Robert Nguyen, Tam Nikolovska, Natalie Noy, Sokny Oconnor, David O'reilly, Keegan Ott, Litisha Papachristodoulou, Stacey Paris, Daniel Patania, Daniel Pathe, Mark James Pellerito, Elia Plant, Bradley Prell, Lachlan Rase, Igor Reading, Nathan Richards, Ian John Rowan, Nicholas Peter Russell, David Ryan, Grant John Ryan, Grant Ronald Saray, Muhammed Scerri, Steven Shand, Kim Sokny, Noy Soupourmas, Peter Steer, Tania Stojanovski, David Talevski, Danny Tonna, Danielle Vettivel, Sumanathasa Vicendese, Anthony Vincent, Darren Leslie Wagner, Jack Walker, Shannon Lee Wallis, Andrew Watts, Brandon Watts, Brendon Trevor Watts, Roy Anthony Way, Kara Lee Williams, Benjamin Williamson, Jaylon Thomas Xanthoulakis, Adrian James Zissis, Paula Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court Criminal Court Listings Wednesday, February 18 Addo, Nana Aerz Photosigns Pty Ltd Aghan, Michael Akkari, Ahad Al Hawli, Wissam Albadine, Mouhannad Allouche, Chawki Altham, Nathan Andonopoulos, Despina Atto, Aehab

Ayache, Youssef Ayoubi, Nabil Basaran, Huseyin Basit, Lisa Bedi, Sahib Bien-Stephen, Ella Bishop, Stephen Bourke, Caitlyn Jade Brunswick 888 Investments Pty Ltd Burrafato, Damien Chakelli, Mariam Chatzdimitrou, Raquel Chol, Gema Clayton, Bianca Corso, Carlo Cougar Productions Pty Ltd Cushen, Jaclyn Dankha, Ankido Dawood, Maryou Dhakal, Govinda Dhaliwal, Manjit Singh Dobson, Liam Nicholas Dogan, Ozkan Durgun, Erdal Elakkoumi, Celal Elkheir, Khaled Elsayed, Tarek Esber, Ali Facciolo, Luke Felice, Joseph Furlong, Samantha Galanopoulos, Zois Garg, Manisha Gentiluomo, Adrian Gerbing, Ashleigh Ghanbari, Mahdi Gold Build Pty Ltd Grant, Lee Hamley, Kate Louise Harrouk, Zaynab Howell, Ben Joneidi, Mohammadreza Journey Real Estate Craigieburn Pty Ltd Jovanovic, Angela Kiamil, Tongez Koen, Barron Korken, Sevgul Kumlu, Dilara Lafee, Nawaf Lees, Holli Lennon, Mitchell Mahamud, Nada Margus, Daniel Marks, Barry Cyril Mashmus, Zaidan Muwafaq Mashu, Mariyam Matete, Fay Asuna Matte, Yassar Matte-Hado, George Mena, Shantay Moughniye, Nadiya Mp Building & Construction Pty Ltd Mursalin, Kazi Md Nath, Ritu Nayak, Nrusingha Charan Neelofar, Neelofar Niehus, Edward Nona, Paula Noureddine, Jamal Omar, Humzy Pangallo, Antonio Pasznyk, Madeleine Pattichis, John Pittorino, Joshua Pollard, Victoria Puglia, Alf Rabaa, Mostafa Raue, Jacquelyn Reid, David Rizvanovic, Hasan Rukaj, Orijol Rusell, Alysha Myree Sabl Chhillar Pty Ltd Salma, Omar Schrempf, Brooke Ashley Schurmann, Karen Selimovski, Denis Sergi, Joseph Serong, Corey Shafo, Rami Alaa Shamim, Fahad Silva, Michael Singh, Damanjeet Singh, Rupinder Pal Skazas, Elena Smit, Mark Smith, Dwayne Leslie Spaseski, Chris Stewart, Ian Sutcliffe, George Syed, Abrar Ali Tastepe, Deniz Thornton, Tanya Tiscia, Michael Togan Investments (Aust) Pty Ltd Tran, Thi Phuong Travanca, Bruno Emanuel Triantafyllopolous, Acrivoula Tsaousis, George Ul Hassan, Shabi Viclands Earthworks Pty Ltd White, Peter Patrick Xu, Jing Yehia, Hasan Yoldas, Mehmet

Grants open

■ Applications are opening soon for Maroondah Council’s 2026-27 annual grants program.

Mayor of Maroondah, Cr Linda Hancock , encouraged eligible individuals and groups to apply.

“ Council’s annual grants program works to build local connections and encourage working together with Council , so that community resources are used well and services and programs can continue into the future,” Cr Hancock said.

“In November 2025, Council adopted the updated Community Grants Policy 2025 to ensure the grants program remains relevant for our community’s changing needs while also better aligning with Council’s strategic priorities,” Cr Hancock said.

“I encourage not-for-profit organisations, community groups, artists and creative professionals to find out more about a range of Council funding opportunities that can support them in delivering programs, activities or events that make a positive contribution to the Maroondah community.”

From 2026, Council will also offer a new biennial Changemaker Grant , to support not-for-profit community groups to deliver strategic projects that help address more complex issues and needs in the Maroondah community. Expressions of Interest for this grant open on Monday, February 23.

New Quick Response Grants will be available all year round, starting from Wednesday, July 1.

The Council is hosting some drop-in sessions in Croydon and Ringwood in March, to support those who could use some help with preparing their applications.

Anti-gambling push

■ Monash Council is refreshing its Public Health Approach to Gambling Harm Policy.

The policy sets out how the Council will continue to reduce the impacts of gambling harm across our municipality.

Some $126 million was taken by pokies in Monash in 2024–25, placing Monash among the top 10 local government areas in Victoria for pokies losses.

“Gambling harm from these losses extends far beyond financial loss,” said a City of Monash representative. “It can affect mental and physical health, relationships, employment and overall wellbeing, with flow on effects for families, friends, colleagues and the broader community.

“The refreshed policy strengthens Council’s commitment to:

■ Reduce gambling harm through evidence-based action, and considers who in our community is most vulnerable, and how rising cost of living pressures are influencing people’s experiences with gambling.

■ Have an increased focus on education and access to information about gambling harm, while continuing to work with vulnerable people, community groups and local sporting clubs to take action to reduce harm from gambling and provide community spaces free from gambling advertising

“Council has a longstanding commitment to preventing harm from gambling and has played a leadership role in this area for many years.”

Residents can have their say before March 15.

New bus shelters

■ Manningham Council is constructing new bus shelters at Doncaster Rd in Doncaster East , Elgar Rd in Doncaster, and Thompsons Rd in Lower Templestowe.

Works on thr Doncaster Rd shelter are scheduled to begin from Monday, March 2 to Friday, March 27, pending weather and contractor availability.

The project will be delivered in three phases:

■ Phase 1: Remove the existing bus shelter. Usually takes one to two days.

■ Phase 2: Civil works (footpaths, landings, shelter foundations, etc.). Usually takes three to five days.

■ Phase 3: Shelter installation. Usually takes one to 2 days.

Local Cricket Weekend Results

Premier

■ Firsts. Two Days. Sats., Feb. 7 and 14. Richmond 1st XI 9/293 v St Kilda 1st XI 10/305. Carlton 1st XI 9-d/350 v Camberwell Magpies 1st XI 10/200. Ringwood 1st XI 10/ 199 v Casey South Melbourne 1st XI 5/217. Dandenong 1st XI 10/203 v Melbourne 1st XI 6/308. Prahran 1st XI 10/226 v Northcote 1st XI 10/317. Kingston Hawthorn 1st XI 10/293 v Fitzroy Doncaster 1st XI 10/186. Greenvale Kangaroos 1st XI 10/169 & 0/91 v Melbourne University 1st XI 9-d/409. Frankston Peninsula 1st XI 10/340 v Geelong 1st XI 10/235. Essendon 1st XI 10/ 172 v Footscray 1st XI 6/174.

■ Seconds. St Kilda 2nd XI 7-d/331 vRichmond 2nd XI 10/166. Camberwell Magpies 2nd XI 10/210 v Carlton 2nd XI 10/183 & 1/21. Casey South Melbourne 2nd XI 10/199 vRingwood 2nd XI 10/191. Melbourne 2nd XI 5/315 vDandenong 2nd XI 10/314. Northcote 2nd XI 10/210 v Prahran 2nd XI 10/208. Fitzroy Doncaster 2nd XI 10/161. Kingston Hawthorn 2nd XI 7/167. Melbourne University 2nd XI 1/ 231 vGreenvale Kangaroos 2nd XI 10/228. Geelong 2nd XI 10/335 v Frankston Peninsula 2nd XI 9-d/360. Footscray 2nd XI 7-d/408 v Essendon 2nd XI 10/279.

■ Thirds. St Kilda 2nd XI 7-d/331 v Richmond 2nd XI 10/166. Camberwell Magpies 2nd XI 10/210 v Carlton 2nd XI 10/183 & 1/21. Casey South Melbourne 2nd XI 10/199 v Ringwood 2nd XI 10/191. Melbourne 2nd XI 5/315 v Dandenong 2nd XI 10/314. Northcote 2nd XI 10/210 v Prahran 2nd XI 10/208. Fitzroy Doncaster 2nd XI 10/161 v Kingston Hawthorn 2nd XI 7/167. Melbourne University 2nd XI 1/231 v Greenvale Kan v Frankston Peninsula 2nd XI 9-d/360. Footscray 2nd XI 7-d/408 v Essendon 2nd XI 10/279.

■ Fourths. St Kilda 4th XI 10/102 v Richmond 4th XI 10/143 & 4/210. Camberwell Magpies 4th XI 7/226 v Carlton 4th XI 9-d/350. Casey South Melbourne 4th XI 10/197 v Ringwood 4th XI 7/285. Melbourne 4th XI 4-d/220 & 0/44 v Dandenong 4th XI 10/94 & 9/169. Northcote 4th XI 10/187 v Prahran 4th XI 10/149. Fitzroy Doncaster 4th XI 5-d/127 & 5/109. Kingston Hawthorn 4th XI 10/124 & 10/111. Melbourne University 4th XI 6-d/189 & 0/4. Greenvale Kangaroos 4th XI 10/88 & 10/101. Geelong 4th XI 10/159 v Frankston Peninsula 4th XI 10/ 256 & 5/66. Footscray 4th XI 7-d/307 v Essendon 4th XI 10/252.

Sub-District

■ East West 1st XI. Two Days. Feb. 14-15. Saturday, Feb. 14. Balwyn 1st XI 3/30 v Bayswater 1st XI 10/155. Donvale 1st XI 1/ 26 v Mt Waverley 1st XI 3-d/258. Endeavour Hills 1st XI v Box Hill 1st XI 9/231. Noble Park 1st XI 1/19 v Croydon 1st XI 10/210. Hoppers Crossing 1st XI v Altona 1st XI 10/221. Spotswood 1st XI 8/285 v Taylors Lakes 1st XI. Williamstown 1st XI 1/33 v Melton 1st XI 10/141. Yarraville 1st XI v Werribee 1st XI 10/308.

■ East West 2nd XI. Bayswater 2nd XI 6/278 v Balwyn 2nd XI. Mt Waverley 2nd XI 9/275 v Donvale 2nd XI. Box Hill 2nd XI 7/154 v Endeavour Hills 2nd XI 7/153. Croydon 2nd XI 0/ 21 v Noble Park 2nd XI 10/160. Altona 2nd XI 10/94 v Hoppers Crossing 2nd XI 1/25. Taylors Lakes 2nd XI 0/69 v Spotswood 2nd XI 10/184. Melton 2nd XI 10/215 v Williamstown 2nd XI. Werribee 2nd XI 7/219 v Yarraville 2nd XI

■ North South 1st XI. Coburg 1st XI v Strathmore 1st XI 10/219. vanhoe 1st XI 10/ 112 v St Bernard's OC 1st XI 3/258. Kew 1st XI v Brunswick 1st XI 10/223. Plenty Valley 1st XI 9/148 v Preston 1st XI 4/53. Brighton 1st XI v Caulfield 1st XI 10/207. Elsternwick 1st XI 0/ 23 v Oakleigh 1st XI 10/176. Malvern 1st XI 1/ 109 v Port Melbourne 1st XI 10/122. Ormond 1st XI 9/279 v Moorabbin 1st XI

■ North South 2nd XI. Strathmore 2nd XI 4/ 58 v Coburg 2nd XI 10/96. St Bernard's OC 2nd XI 8/232 v Ivanhoe 2nd XI. Brunswick 2nd XI 8/284 v Kew 2nd XI. Preston 2nd XI 3/197 v Plenty Valley 2nd XI 10/50. Caulfield 2nd XI 10/198 v Brighton 2nd XI 0/13. Oakleigh 2nd XI 10/175 v Elsternwick 2nd XI 1/22. Port Melbourne 2nd XI 10/162 v Malvern 2nd XI 0/ 32. Moorabbin 2nd XI 10/133 v Ormond 2nd XI 4/147.

■ North West 3rd XI Division 1. Brunswick 3rd XI 8/244 v Werribee 3rd XI 10/243. Plenty Valley 3rd XI 10/124 v Preston 3rd XI 3/126. St Bernard's OC 3rd XI 9/203 v Melton 3rd XI 9/ 198. Taylors Lakes 3rd XI 7/157 v Hoppers Crossing 3rd XI 7/160.

■ North West 3rd XI Division 2. Coburg 3rd XI 3/263 v Ivanhoe 3rd XI 10/213. Kew 3rd XI 9/109 v Altona 3rd XI 8/214. Strathmore 3rd XI 3/140 v Williamstown 3rd XI 8/136. Yarraville 3rd XI 10/124 v Spotswood 3rd XI 5/129

■ North West 4th XI Division 1. Werribee 4th XI 10/104 v Brunswick 4th XI 5/243. Preston 4th XI 5/97 v Plenty Valley 4th XI 10/94. Melton 4th XI 9/149 v St Bernard's OC 4th XI 10/127. Hoppers Crossing 4th XI 6/190 v Taylors Lakes 4th XI 10/186

■ North West 4th XI Division 2. Altona 4th XI 10/102 v Kew 4th XI 6/110. Williamstown 4th XI 6/193 v Strathmore 4th XI 6/194. Spotswood 4th XI 5/149 v Yarraville 4th XI 5/212. Ivanhoe 4th XI 9/215 v Coburg 4th XI 9/164

■ South East 3rd XI Division 1. Caulfield 3rd XI 10/127 v Croydon 3rd XI 10/216. Elsternwick 3rd XI 1/86 v Bayswater 3rd XI 10/85. Mt Waverley 3rd XI 10/173 v Malvern 3rd XI 9/176. Oakleigh 3rd XI 7/ 207 v Balwyn 3rd XI 8/164.

■ South East 3rd XI Division 2. Moorabbin 3rd XI 8/224 v Box Hill 3rd XI 4/225. Brighton 3rd XI 3/201 v Donvale 3rd XI 8/ 200. Endeavour Hills 3rd XI 2/85 v Noble Park 3rd XI 10/82. Ormond 3rd XI 10/246 v Port Melbourne 3rd XI 10/224

■ South East 4th XI Division 1. Croydon 4th XI 9/184 v Caulfield 4th XI 6/190. Malvern 4th XI 10/172 v Mt Waverley 4th XI 6/213. Balwyn 4th XI 10/109 v Oakleigh 4th XI 8/152. Bayswater 4th XI 5/78 v Elsternwick 4th XI 7/247.

■ South East 4th XI Division 2. Box Hill 4th XI 4/192 v Moorabbin 4th XI 8/188. Donvale 4th XI 8/173 v Brighton 4th XI 3/ 177. Noble Park 4th XI 4/163 v Endeavour Hills 4th XI 9/158. Port Melbourne 4th XI 7/173 v Ormond 4th XI 7/187

Diamond Valley

■ Barclay Shield. Two Days. Sats,., Feb. 14 and 21. Bundoora 1st XI v Diamond Creek 1st XI 10/243. Heidelberg 1st XI 10/165 v Riverside 1st XI. Epping 1st XI 10/141 v North Eltham Wanderers 1st XI

0/0. Bundoora United 1st XI v Macleod 1st XI 9/246. Rosebank 1st XI 10/117 v Rosanna 1st XI 0/5

■ Money Shield. Banyule 1st XI v Eltham 1st XI 9/248. Greensborough 1st XI 10/133

v Plenty 1st XI 0/26. Research Eltham Collegians 1st XI 1/15 v Lower Plenty 1st XI 10/162. Bundoora Park 1st XI 2/30 v Mernda 1st XI 10/160. Montmorency 1st XI 10/170 v Lalor Stars 1st XI 0/9.

■ Mash Shield. Dennis 1st XI 4/296 v Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 1st XI. Mill Park 1st XI 10/173 v Thomastown United 1st XI 0/3. South Morang 1st XI 4/34 v Panton Hill 1st XI 10/141. Thomastown 1st XI 10/158 v Lower Eltham 1st XI 5/46. Rivergum 1st XI 10/139 v Laurimar 1st XI 3/27. Keon Park CC 1st XI 10/99 v Hurstbridge 1st XI 9/33 & 3/21

■ B-Grade. Plenty 2nd XI 9/239 v Heidelberg 2nd XI. Diamond Creek 2nd XI 0/5 v Banyule 2nd XI 10/141. Mernda 2nd XI v Riverside 2nd XI 9/158. North Eltham Wanderers 2nd XI 1/63 v Research Eltham Collegians 2nd XI 10/135. Rosanna 2nd XI 10/ 128 v Montmorency 2nd XI 2/67

■ C-Grade. Bundoora United 2nd XI 1/34 v Greensborough 2nd XI 10/179. Eltham 2nd XI 1/28 v Bundoora 2nd XI 10/177. Macleod 2nd XI 0/2 v Riverside 3rd XI 10/ 199. Lower Plenty 2nd XI 2/56 v South Morang 2nd XI 10/203. Lalor Stars 2nd XI 9/248 v Rivergum 2nd XI

■ D-Grade. Hurstbridge 2nd XI 5/339 v Keon Park CC 2nd XI. Laurimar 2nd XI v Rosebank 2nd XI 8/330. Lower Plenty 3rd XI 10/221 v Bundoora Park 2nd XI 0/23. Panton Hill 2nd XI 4/154 v Montmorency 3rd XI 10/138. Diamond Creek 3rd XI 10/ 241 v Mill Park 2nd XI 5/55. Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 2nd XI 10/128 v North Eltham Wanderers 3rd XI 3/90

■ E-Grade. Thomastown United 2nd XI 10/210 v South Morang 3rd XI 0/12. Riverside 4th XI 1/38 v Greensborough 3rd XI 10/161. Banyule 3rd XI 10/111 v Mernda 3rd XI 0/71. Lower Eltham 2nd XI 0/9 v Thomastown 2nd XI 10/Bye: Dennis 2nd XI

■ F1-Grade. Research Eltham Collegians 3rd XI 1/34 v Banyule 4th XI 10/178. Whittlesea 1st XI v Eltham 3rd XI 9/199. Macleod 3rd XI v Rivergum 3rd XI 6/314. Greensborough 4th XI 7/217 v Bundoora United 3rd XI. Dennis 3rd XI 4/170 v Laurimar 3rd XI.

■ F2-Grade. Greensborough 5th XI v Lower Plenty 4th XI 8/325. Montmorency 4th XI 8/334 v South Morang 4th XI. Riverside 5th XI 9/270 v Hurstbridge 3rd XI. Mernda 4th XI 2/77 v Banyule 5th XI 10/ 103. Bye: Research Eltham Collegians 4th XI

Eastern

■ Dunstan Shield. Two Days. Sats., Feb. 7 and 14. East Malvern Tooronga 1st XI 10/ 171 & 5/176 v Glen Iris 1st XI 4-d/174. East Doncaster 1st XI 10/251 v Mont Albert 1st XI 6/339. Old Carey 1st XI 10/121 v Edinburgh 1st XI 10/109. Bulleen 1st XI 10/ 107 & 10/161 v North Balwyn 1st XI 4-d/ 135 & 6/134

■ Wright Shield. Richmond City 1st XI 10/ 138 v Ashburton Willows 1st XI 9/309. Deepdene Bears 1st XI 10/145 & 1/44 v Marcellin OC 1st XI 10/285. Mulgrave 1st XI 10/166 v Canterbury 1st XI 10/173. Surrey Hills 1st XI 2/125 v Heathmont 1st XI 10/114

■ A Turf. Burwood 1st XI 10/304 v Old Carey 2nd XI 10/172. Hawthorn Boroondara 1st XI 5/154 v Boronia 1st XI 10/152. Ashwood 1st XI 8/276 v Balwyn Saints 1st XI 10/306. Mont Albert 2nd XI 10/83 & 6/155 v Mazenod OC 1st XI 8-d/ 192

■ B Turf. North Balwyn 2nd XI 5-d/194 v Bulleen 2nd XI 10/97 & 4/113. Heathmont 2nd XI 5-d/269 & 1/16 v St. Kevins Old Boys 1st XI 9/53 & 10/231. Canterbury 2nd XI 10/87 & 1/81 v East Doncaster 2nd XI 10/ 352. Richmond Union 1st XI 10/245 v Deepdene Bears 2nd XI 10/59 & 10/97

■ C Turf. Glen Iris 2nd XI 10/117 & 10/171 v East Malvern Tooronga 2nd XI 5-d/198 & 3/96. Edinburgh 2nd XI 6/171 v Burwood 2nd XI 10/170. La Trobe University 1st XI 8/47 & 7/46. Mulgrave 2nd XI 10/209. Boronia 2nd XI 10/198 v Hawthorn Boroondara 2nd XI 10/282

■ D Turf. Old Carey 3rd XI 10/355 v Surrey Hills 2nd XI 10/154 & 3/63. Marcellin OC 2nd XI 10/121 v Ashwood 2nd XI 10/ 128. Mazenod OC 2nd XI 8/141 v Mont Albert 3rd XI 5-d/253. Ashburton Willows 2nd XI 8-d/213 v Richmond City 2nd XI 10/ 159 & 2/85

■ E Turf. Heathmont 3rd XI 7-d/277 v Deepdene Bears 3rd XI 10/106 & 3/115. Balwyn Saints 2nd XI v La Trobe University 2nd XI, Forfeit. Hawthorn Boroondara 3rd XI 10/. Edinburgh 3rd XI 7-d/359 v Surrey Hills 3rd XI 10/181. Marcellin OC 3rd XI 10/99 & 1/59 v Richmond Union 2nd XI 7-d/185

■ F Turf. One Day. Surrey Hills 4th XI 10/ 70 v Hawthorn Boroondara 4th XI 3/71. East Malvern Tooronga 4th XI 7/163 v Heathmont 4th XI 7/217. East Doncaster 3rd XI 6/196 v Bulleen 3rd XI 6/192. St. Kevins Old Boys 2nd XI 9/189 v Richmond City 3rd XI 6/193. Bye: Mont Albert 4th XI

■ MacGibbon Shield. Two Days. Sats., Feb. 7 and 14. West Ivanhoe United 1st XI 10/ 187 v Holy Trinity 1st XI 6/188. Glen Waverley 1st XI 8/291 v STC South Camberwell 1st XI 8/292. Burwood Unt. Canterbury 1st XI 2/314 v Deepdene Uniting 1st XI 7/312. Clifton Hill 1st XI 3/248 v Trinity Willison 1st XI 10/247

■ Burt Shield. Toorak Prahran 1st XI 0-d/ 60 & 3/105 v Glen Waverley 2nd XI 10/58 & 10/106. St. Paul's Oakleigh District 1st XI 9/273 v Burwood Unt. Canterbury 2nd XI 10/123. Holy Trinity 2nd XI 8-d/277 v North Alphington 1st XI 10/169 & 7/117. Trinity Willison 2nd XI 2-d/236 & 0/6 v Clifton Hill 2nd XI 10/136 & 10/104.

Mornington Peninsula

■ Provincial Firsts. Two Days. Sats., feb 7 and 14. Mornington 1sts 7/171 v Langwarrin 1sts 9/170. Dromana 1sts 10/149 v Baden Powell 1sts 6/151. Red Hill 1sts 10/271 v Heatherhill 1sts 10/141. Sorrento 1sts 10/129 v Pines 1sts 10/116

■ Peninsula Firsts. Balnarring 1sts 7/276 v Long Island 1sts 10/189. Somerville 1sts 7/288 v Mt Eliza 1sts 10/204. Moorooduc 1sts 10/207 v Old Peninsula 1sts 1/214. Seaford CC 1sts 10/218 v Rosebud 1sts 10/156

■ District Firsts. Rye 1sts 10/185 v Carrum Downs 1sts 9/189. Crib Point 1sts 6/297 v Main Ridge 1sts 10/108. Flinders 1sts 6/292 v Carrum CC 1sts 9/291. Boneo 1sts 10/227 v Seaford Tigers 1sts 9/225

■ Sub-District Firsts. Skye 1sts 6/270 v Frankston YCW 1st 10/44. Delacombe Park 1sts 4-d/249 v Ballam Park 1sts 10/93 & 10/75

Baxter 1sts 2-d/258 & 0/7 v Pearcedale 1sts 10/ 75 & 10/188. Mt Martha 1sts 9-d/141 & 0/81 v Tootgarook 1sts 10/115 & 10/104. Bye: Tyabb 1sts.

North Metro

■ Jika Shield. Two Days. Sats., Feb. 7 and 14. Preston Baseballers CC 1st XI 5-d/194 v Fiji Victorian CC 1st XI 10/192 & 9/223. Olympic Colts CC 1st XI 10/166 v Northern Socials CC 1st XI 10/320. Donath CC 1st XI 10/125 v Camrea Stingrays CC 1st XI 10/165

■ Jack Quick Shield. Fiji Victorian CC 2nd XI 10/92 v Cameron CC 1st XI 10/164. Strathewen Cougars CC 1stXI 7-d/211 v Reservoir Cobras CC 1st XI 10/111 & 2/120. West Preston CC 1st XI 10/212 v Bellfield Bulls CC 1st XI 5/215

■ Jack Kelly Shield. Royal Park Reds 3rd XI 10/123 & 10/113 v Preston Baseballers CC 2nd XI 10/170 & 2/69. Preston YCW District 1st XI 7-d/250 v West Preston CC 2nd XI 10/139. Fairfield CC 1st XI 10/168 v Ivanhoe Mavericks CC 1st XI 10/157

■ B-Grade. ollert Rhinos CC 1st XI 7/208 v Fiji Victorian CC 3rd XI 10/128. Bellfield Bulls CC 2nd XI 10/139 & 4/79 v Fairfield CC 2nd XI 10/190 & 6-d/143. Northern Socials CC 2s XI v West Preston CC 3rd XI Forfeit

■ C-Grade. Bellfield Bulls CC 3rd XI 9/308 v Preston Baseballers CC 3rd XI 9/156. Reservoir Cobras CC 2nd XI 8/250 v Bellfield Bulls CC 4th XI 10/108. Camrea Stingrays CC 2nd XI 9/375 v Royal Park Reds 4th XI 10/171. Bye: Fiji Victorian CC 4th XI

Ringwood District

■ Lindsay Trollope Shield. Two Days. Sats., Feb. 7 and 14. Norwood 1XI 9-d/288 v Ainslie Park 1XI 10/149. Croydon Ranges 1XI 10/53 & 10/91. St Andrews 1XI 8-d/134 & 0/13. South Croydon 1XI 10/214 v Lilydale 1XI 10/116. Montrose 1XI 4-d/215 v North Ringwood 1XI 8/209

■ Bill Wilkins Cup. Wantirna South 1XI 10/120 & 4/110. East Ringwood 1XI 9-d/213. Vermont 1XI 10/161 v Mooroolbark 1XI 10/ 198. Wonga Park 1XI 6-d/189 & 3/31. Mt Evelyn 1XI 10/105 & 10/113. Bayswater Park 1XI 7-d/283 v Kilsyth 1XI 10/163 & 7/144

■ Stuart Newey Plate. Templeton 1XI 10/ 165 v South Warrandyte 1XI 10/185. Warrandyte 1XI 9/337 v Healesville 1XI 10/ 115 & 1/44. Chirnside Park 1XI 10/216 v Seville Burras 1XI 10/91 & 2/53. Yarra Junction 1XI 10/147 v Heathwood 1XI 10/114

■ Steve Pascoe Shield. Croydon North 1XI 6/164 v Warrandyte 2XI 10/162. Ainslie Park 2XI 10/207 v Norwood 2XI 7/209. North Ringwood 2XI 10/102 v Montrose 2XI 10/ 179. East Ringwood 2XI 9-d/177 v South Croydon 2XI 10/106 & 4/96

South East

■ Longmuir Shield. Two Days. Sats., Feb. 14 and 21. East Sandringham 1 0/0 v Bentleigh ANA 1 10/184. Bentleigh Uniting 1 8/307. Kingston Heath 1 3/24 v West Bentleigh 1 5-d/252. Le Page Park 1 v Brighton Union 1 9/160 ■ Woolnough Shield. Mackie 1 9/231 v Omega 1. Cheltenham Park 1 6/83 v Hampton Central 1 10/119. Carnegie South 1 v Elwood 1 10/279. Cluden 1 v CHAG 1 10/ 183

■ Quiney Shield. Omega 2 5/101 v East Sandringham 2 10/187. Washington Park 2 v Bentleigh Uniting 2 10/228. CUCC Kings 3 7-d/310 v Highett West 1 0/124. Hampton United 1 0/2 v Le Page Park 2 10/286

■ Pullen Shield. East Bentleigh Central 1 v Mackie 2 10/325. Melbourne Wanderers 1 10/156 v Diamond 1. Elwood 2 10/338 v Kingston Heath 2. Brighton Union 2 10/225 v Cluden 2

■ E-Grade. Southside East Caulfield 1 3d/150 v East Bentleigh Central 2 10/110. Hampton Central 2 10/121 v South East Oakleigh 1 2/33. Melbourne Districts United 1 6/373 v Mackie 3. CHAG 2 9/189 v Le Page Park 3. Washington Park 3 10/96 v CUCC Kings 4 5/213

■ A-Grade. Two Days. Sats., Feb. 14 and 21. Tarneit Central 4th XI Forfeit v Altona Sports 1st

CAULFIELD ANNIVERSARY TRIPLE TREAT

■ Three Group 1 contests are the highlights on a stellar day of thoroughbred racing at Caulfield this Saturday (Feb. 21).

The Melbourne Racing Club, previously known as the Victoria Amateur Turf Club, commenced racing at Caulfield in 1876.

This year, the 150th anniversary of that milestone, the Club will once again host many long-standing feature races introduced along the way.

The Futurity Stakes run over 1400 metres at weight-for-age, though not the oldest of Saturday’s showpiece events, is generally held in the highest regard.

First run in 1898, the list of past winners includes some of our greatest racehorses.

Phar Lap became Australia’s highest stake winner at the time, lumping a huge weight to a narrow victory, when it was a handicap race in 1931.

Ajax was also burdened with big imposts when posting a hat-trick of wins from 1938 to 1940.

Manikato competed in five consecutive Futurity Stakes from 1979 to 1983, winning all bar the 1982 edition, when second to Galleon .

There are too many more champions from yesteryear to mention who also triumphed in this race.

The Oakleigh Plate was won by Malua when first run in 1884.

Malua also achieved success in the 1884 Newmarket Handicap at Flemington, forever linking these sought-after sprinting crowns.

Both are handicap events, with the Oakleigh Plate over 1100 metres, and the Newmarket Handicap at 1200 metres.

Remarkably, Malua went on to win the Melbourne Cup over two miles (approximately 3200 metres) in November of that year and his achievements on the racetrack are well worth further investigation.

The Blue Diamond Stakes, Victoria’s richest race for two-year-olds, only began in 1971.

However, there has been no shortage of stars unearthed in that time.

Victorious at the end of the 1200 metres scamper have been Manikato (1978), Bounding Away (1986), and Alinghi (2004) to name just a few.

Can any of the following horses add their name to one of the three honour boards?

Futurity Stakes

TreasuretheMoment

Last season’s Champion Three-Year-Old Filly.

Top class mare who has won twice previously when first-up over 1400 metres at Caulfield

This is a suitable assignment, which could see her return to the winners list.

Tom Kitten

Has well and truly earned his place competing at the top level.

Launched his current campaign securing a win at this track and trip, coming from well back and wide.

That edge in race fitness may work in his favour.

Feroce

Resumed from a spell in the same race as Tom Kitten

Came from back in the field, hitting the

Rod Basto

front at the 200 metres mark, only to be nailed on the line.

He is a Group 1 winner and has a good second-up record.

Oakleigh Plate

Point Barrow

Lightly raced three-year-old filly primed for a first-up assault on this Group 1 handicap. She gets in with very little weight on her back.

Recorded an impressive win here last time in when came from near last on the home turn.

Tropicus

Has returned from a spell to win at this track and trip on a previous occasion.

Will be attempting to repeat that effort in stronger company here.

Expected to race on the pace.

Hedged

No luck last time when held up for the length of the home straight, finishing third to Oak Hill.

That was also over 1100 metres at Caulfield.

Ready to win again.

Blue Diamond Stakes

Big Sky Has won both starts over 1000 metres impressively, including one at Caulfield. Steps up to the 1200 metres and stronger opposition here. There doesn’t appear to be much between a handful of these two-yearolds.

Closer To Free

Caused a reshuffle of pre-post betting markets after winning a Blue Diamond Prelude on debut. That was a faultless performance. Returns to Caulfield and this is only 100 metres further. Improvement from the race day experience can also be expected.

Guest House Beaten just over one length as favourite when runner-up to Closer To Free at his second start. The run had plenty of merit, as he did things wrong and was caught wide the whole way. Prior to that, this colt had been spruiked as being better than stablemate Big Sky.

Horses To Follow

■ Guest House, Observer, Hedged, Celerity, She’s An Artist, Curse It

Racing Calendar

■ Wednesday, February 18: Caulfield Heath

■ Thursday, February 19: Pakenham

■ Friday, February 20: Seymour, Terang, Cranbourne

■ Saturday, February 21: Caulfield, Yarra Valley, Dederang

■ Sunday, February 22: Ballarat, Moe

■ Tuesday, February 24: Horsham

Swayze back to back in the Hunter Cup

■ Eight year old Rock N Roll HeavenLettucereason gelding Swayze trained at Menangle (NSW) by Jason Grimson and driven by Cameron Hart emulated last years victory in Victoria’s Premier Race –the $250,000 A.G. Hunter Cup over 2760 metres at Melton Entertainment Park last Saturday February 14.

Settling one/one from gate two after War Dan Buddy from gate four showed exceptional speed to make an unsuccessful bid for the front running into the first turn as polemarker Republican Party retained the lead.

Swayze moved around him to take over reaching the post on the first occasion, with favourite Leap To Fame (7Y0 half brother by Bettor’s Delight) trapped wide working forward to occupy the spot outside the leader, a position which is not foreign to him.

Unfortunately for backers of the Shepparton Cup victor Kingman (gate three second line), he was badly checked when Oliver Dan (gate three) galloped shortly after the start resulting in him settling a long way back.

With no changes, the tempo hotted up for the final circuit as Kingman was sent forward three wide to give chase to the leaders which was almost an impossible task if he was to figure in the finish although still there on the final bend.

In a stirling battle all the way up the running, it appeared that Leap To Fame had him covered with Republican Party using the sprint lane to put in his claim.

Refusing to surrender, Swayze had a half neck to spare on the wire over a game Leap To Fame as he always is denying him of a $1,000,000 bonus should he have won. Republican Party was a nose away third in a most exciting finale. Miki To Success (gate five – one/two) was fourth 2.5 metres back off a one/two passage.

In quarters of 29.3, 28.6, 27.2 and 28.1 after a lead time of 81.2 seconds, Swayze returned a mile rate of 1-53.1 – 1.2 seconds outside his 1-51.9 track record set last year.

There was drama following the race when connections of Republican Party queried the margin between second and third which took a considerable time before a decision was made by stewards to keep the placings as is.

■ The other highlight of the night was the $250,000 Yabby Dam Farms Great Southern Star Final for trotters over 1720 metres when outstanding 5Y0 Volstead-Keayang Yankee mare Keayang Zahara after winning her heat held earlier in the night coasted to a untouched 8.7 metre margin by leading most of the way from gate three in a sizzling 1-54.1 from stablemates Jilliby Ballerini which trailed after leading out from gate two, with Jilliby Dreamlover 8.1 metres away third after trailing the pair giving the stable not only the trifecta, but also a $500,000 bonus for going undefeated through the Summer Carnival Series.

Trained at Ecklin South by Marg and Paddy Lee and driven by Jason Lee, Keayang Zahara is raced by the family’s Levarg Racing Group managed by John Craven and has the world at her feet

Stawell

■ Stawell, gateway to the Grampians, commenced the week on Monday February nine with a seven event card and most winners well supported.

Anyone who backs Horsham trainer/ driver Aaron Dunn’s runners always get a run for their money and such was the case when first starter Bigbashash scored on debut in the Stan and Lorna Anyon Memorial Maiden Pace over 1785 metres. Backed into a short priced $1.40 favourite, Bigbasgash wasn’t pushed out as the start was effected before being sent forward three wide only to be trapped on a limb until joining the leader Allgood Vinnie (gate six) with James Herbertson in the sulky prior to the bell. Looking vulnerable at the straight entrance, Bigbashash gained the upper hand over the concluding stages to record a tough 4.2 metre margin over the leader which fought on bravely. Loan Sailor (one/one from outside the front line) was third 2.7 metres away. The mile rate 1-58.2.

■ Junortoun trainer John Tormey’s Bendigo stable provided 7Y0 Betterthancheddar-Georgia’s Belle mare Chogi to notch up her eleventh success at start 105

when landing The McLeod Family Tribute Pace over 1785 metres.

Driven by daughter Ellen, Chogi settled three back in the moving line as Starzinhereyes exploded away from outside the front line to lead, before surrendering to the favourite Fair Chance (gate two) hitting the back straight on the first occasion with Chogi moving a position forward.

Going forward three wide in the last lap, Chogi was too strong over the final stages, defeating a death-seating James Garner (gate three) by a metre, with Fair Chance 1.9 metres away third. The mile rate 1-56.8.

■ Mount Gambier (Mingbool) trainer/ driver David Drury is no stranger to Stawell meetings and was successful with the well backed 6Y0 GuaranteedHarbhahay gelding Roblen Ranger in the 2180 metre Ecycle Solutions Pace.

Raced by a very large syndicate headed by Lara’s Paul and James Warnock, Roblen Ranger (gate three) went forward at the start only to be trapped outside the pacemaker Little Blabbermouth (gate two) for the entire journey.

Showing plenty of tenacity in the straight, Roblen Ranger dug in deep to gain the day by a half neck over Little Blabbermouth in a 1-59 mile rate. Huxam Chubb (gate two second line – one/one) was third 7.4 metres back.

■ Swan Marsh trainer Paul Castle combined with Reagan Clarke aboard 6Y0 Sweet Lou-Sunday Rose mare Quick Decision to snare the Thomas Foods Pace over 1785 metres.

Settling at the tail of the field from inside the second line, Quick Decision was suited by the slick tempo being set by Smokin Strepo (gate two), My Darling Devine (gate three) and Miss Malachite (three wide) from outside the front line through the early stages which eventually crossed to lead after spending plenty of petrol.

Going forward three wide in the last lap, Quick Decision raced to the front on the final bend to reach the judge by 9.2 metres from Alookto Like (one/one – three wide last lap from gate four, with Missmalachite a courageous third 3.1 metres away. The mile rate 1-57.9.

Shepparton

■ The regular Shepparton meeting was held on Tuesday on a nine race card.

Kilmore trainer/driver Corey Bell was victorious with 8Y0 Western Terror-Sunday Rose gelding Northern Terror in the 2190 metres SHRC Tennis Is Ace Pace over 2190 metres.

Given an easy time on the back of the poleline leader Archaa after beginning fast from gate six, Northern Terror extricated away from the markers approaching the final bend to follow Glenn Bull’s Favouritehighlight (one/one from gate two on the second line) which had vacated the prime spot to join Archaa in the last lap.

Angling wide on turning, Northern Terror ran home strongly to easily account for Favouritehighlight by an 11.3 metre margin returning a mile rate of 1-59.6.

Mynameisruby (one/five) off a three wide trail last lap was third 4.2 metres away.

■ Narrandera trainer/driver Jaxon Painting has been taking Victorian stake money home on a regular basis in recent weeks and 3Y0 Downbytheseaside-Yourockanna gelding landed the Country Tennis Week

Pace over 2190 metres to keep his record intact. Going forward from outside the front line to take the lead away from Hezaflashone (gate four), Mister Seaside rated well defied all challengers to record a 7.1 metre margin over Hezaflashone and poleliner Little Whippet (four pegs) which never left the marker line to finish 6.2 metres back in third place. The mile rate 2-00.2.

■ Four year old Guaranteed-Ideal Eagle gelding Calivil trained by Mark Thompson at Junortoun was at double figures in the 1690 metre Fara Lot 176 For A Cause Pace but won like an odds-on chance.

Driven by Nathan Jack, Calivil starting from the extreme draw received a dream passage one/one throughout following the well supported Home And Dry (gate four) and after easing three wide into the straight, finished full of running to blouse a game Home And Dry by 4.1 metres in a 1-57.4 mile rate. Highview Hammer (four pegs from inside the second line) used the sprint lane for third 5.3 metres away.

■ Avenel’s Juanita Breen trained and reined Little Miss Morgan, a 4Y0 daughter of Skyvalley and Golden Spurs to a big victory in the 1260AM Sen Vicbred Voucher 4Y0 and older Maiden Trotters Mobile over 1690 metres.

First up since October last year, Little Miss Morgan (extreme draw) settled midfield from the extreme draw as Island Ruby led from gate three.

Sprinting like a gazelle in the last lap to join the pacemaker on the home turn, Little Miss Morgan careered away to greet the judge by 17.2 metres from Bet Bet Hotshot (gate two) which had trailed the leader. Cresco Cashflow (gate five) after racing parked held third a half head away. The mile rate 2-02.6.

Maryborough

■ Everybody’s favourite venue Maryborough raced on Wednesday with a small six event program.

Recently located Shepparton resident Luke Tabone (owner/trainer) of 6Y0 Always B Miki-Affairs Are Better gelding Sea fury combined with local Bec Bartley to land the 1690 metre McPhersons Printing Group Pace.

With the lead changing several times in the early stages, Sea Fury trapped wide from outside the front line after going forward racing for the bell to race parked outside Highlandheartbreaka (gate five) Ninedolla Toastie which had crossed polemarker Woodlea Diego.

Doing best in the shadows of the post, Sea Fury scored by 1.5 metres over Highlandheartbreaka, with Rosberg (gate three) third from one/one 6.3 metres away. The mile rate 1-55.8.

■ The Aldebaran Park Mares Trotters Mobile over 2190 metres was hectic in the early part as The Chook (gate four) led from Giggle Water (gate five), with Fremarks Peggy (gate two) and James Herbertson trapped in the open before gaining cover from Manda Kyvalley outside the front line. Angling wide in the straight, Fremarks Peggy did best to record a 3.6 metre margin over Manda Kyvalley and The Chook which weakened for third 2.6 metres back third. The mile rate 2-05.7.

■ Charlton trainer John Tormey’s handy 7Y0 Bacardi Lindy-Always Treasure mare Dona Amalia chalked up her 10th victory in 50 outings when taking the Redpath Tyre & Battery Service Trotters Mobile over 1690 metres giving ‘Herbie’ his third winner for the afternoon.

Settling a long way off the pacemaker old timer Fling It Rainbow (gate three), Dona Amalia commenced a forward move wide in the final lap and with full steam up joined the leaders on turning to gain the day by 1.7 metres in a rate of 2-00.6 from polemarker Louieville Lass along the sprint lane off the back of Fling It Rainbow, with Ataboy Charlie 3.7 metres back third after going forward to race exposed.

Kilmore

■ It was Kilmore again on Thursday and It was great to see Little River owner/cotrainers Danny and Gill Norris in the winners stall following the victory of 7Y0 Creatine-Desert Spur gelding Desert Assassin in the 1690 metre O’Briens Electrical Trotters Mobile.

This Week

■ Wednesday – Mildura, Thursday –Ballarat, Friday – Bendigo, Saturday –Melton, Sunday - Cranbourne, Monday – Hamilton, Tuesday – Shepparton.

Driven by James Herbertson, Desert Assassin began very fast from gate five to lead and rated to perfection, never looked like losing to greet the judge by 10.1 metres from Buslin Brody which trailed from the pole using the sprint lane to no avail. Noble Count after going forward three wide from the extreme draw battled on gamely for third 3.6 metres away. It was Desert Assassin’s 4th success (17 placings) in 45 outings. The mile rate 1-57.9.

■ There was a long shot result to the MC Labour Trotters Mobile when 6Y0 Kvintet Avenger-Our Little Lil gelding Patnwill bred and raced by Heathcote’s Mannix family, trained by Michael Mannix and driven by Ashley Manton led throughout from gate six at odds of $151. Bowling along at his leisure, Patnwill couldn’t be caught, scoring by 1.5 metres from Gunsen Rosie (gate two – one/one –three wide home turn) and polemarker Playa Del Carmen which trailed the winner finishing a head back. The mile rate 203.

■ There was another rough result in the C&M Build Group Trotters Discretionary Handicap over 2660 metres after Teesdale trainer/driver Paul Warnock’s 7Y0 Lawman-Packed Up Early gelding Im Above The Law raced by the Warnock family and friends scored in identical fashion paying odds of 20.90 leaving punters in disbelief following the last two races on the card. Jumping straight to the front from the pole as the tapes released, Im Above The Law was rated a treat and gave plenty on turning to defeat Tripod (barrier three) which trailed moving off the inside to challenge on the final bend by 2.3 metres in a mile rate of 2-05.1. Thirty metre backmarker Johns Boy (four pegs – one/ one bell – wide home turn) was third 4.4 metres back.

Terang

■ A small six event card was held at Terang on Friday and Ross Creek trainer Jennifer Douglas snared the quinella in the 1680 metre Terang Co-Op Rural Store Pace when 11Y0 Modern Art-Shenfields Lane gelding Too The Max was too good for stablemate Muselet in a 1-56.3 mile rate. Beginning best from gate five to lead, Muselet was restrained to allow Too The Max (gate five with Jordie Leedham in the sulky) to cross and allowed to dictate terms, just lasted by a nose from Muselet in a tricky finish. Polemarker Quick Decision after being restrained from the pole to be four pegs was extricated wide on turning and ran home with a wet sail for third a half neck back.

■ Ellimynyt part-owner/trainer Julie Brimacombe’s 5Y0 Rock N Roll HeavenGarden Gate Tina gelding Havadash Joe was victorious in the Terang Co-Op IGA Plus Liquor Pace over 2180 metres. Driven by James Herbertson, Havadash Joh was victorious in the Terang Co-Op IGA Plus Liquor Pace over 2180 metres after being taken back to the tail from outside the front line before being sent forward racing for the bell to race exposed outside the long odds-on favourite Jilliby Eclipse (gate three) which after racing roughly and galloping shortly after the start was sooled to the front mid-race. Racing clear entering the back straight on the final occasion after Jilliby Eclipse galloped again losing all chance, Havadash Joh held on to score by a neck from Pretty Basic (gate six - four pegs) and Jacosas Dream (one/two from gate five who was 1.4 metre away. The mile rate 2-00.4. Len Baker

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Notice of Precipe

For the record Marta Popa© nee Servanis, on Victoria, is permanently domiciled on the Land and Soil of Terra Australis. I am not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and the paramount security interest holder of all estates, property, assets and collateral, both registered and unregistered, and all associated copyright protected trade names. My lawful Conveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis was recorded with Public Recording Number RPP44 63900 05100 38541 62601 on Proclamation Date10th September 2025, respectively. All usufruct subjugation ties have been severed with the occupying corporate government of Australia. The corporate Australian kakistocracy and its affiliates are instructed to immediately cease and desist misaddressing Marta Popa© nee Servanis in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin, GLOSSA and to cease and desist infringing upon my estate, property, assets, collateral and copyright protected trade names.

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT BAYSWATER

1. Telstra is proposing to upgrade an existing mobile phone base station tower at 3 Valentine Street, Bayswater VIC 3153.

2. The proposed upgrade will consist of the removal of (9) nine existing panel antennas with the installation of (9) nine new 4G/5G panel antennas (<2.8m in length) approx. 30m above ground level. This upgrade also includes the Installation of associated auxiliary equipment and ancillary works.

3. In accordance with Section 7 of the Industry Code C564:2025 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment, we invite you to make comments about the proposal.

4. Please direct comments to Planning Consultant on behalf of Telstra at planning.vic@servicestream.com.au, 0477 962 725 or by post to: Service Stream (Wireless) - Level 11, 2 Wentworth Street, Parramatta, NSW 2150 by 5pm Wednesday 4th March 2026.

For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visit www.rfnsa.com.au/3153003

Service Stream Ltd A.B.N. 46 072 369 870

Telstra Ltd A.C.N. 086 174 781

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT 362-368 SWAN STREET, RICHMOND VIC 3121 (CP172943)

1. Telstra is proposing to upgrade its mobile phone base station on the existing monopole at the above address. RFNSA: 3121016

2. The proposed upgrade will consist of

• Removal of six (6) existing panel antennas;

• Installation of three (3) new panel antennas (each 2.53m long) at a height of 20.8m;

• Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (each 0.72m long) at a height of 21.2m;

• 3. 4.

Chatswood NSW 2067 by 5pm Thursday 5 March 2026.

For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visit www.rfnsa.com.au/3121016

Service Stream Ltd A.B.N. 46 072 369 870

Telstra Ltd A.C.N. 086 174 781

Amplitel Pty Ltd A.C.N: 648 133 073

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT 495-511 BURWOOD HIGHWAY, VERMONT SOUTH VIC 3133

1. Telstra is proposing to upgrade its mobile phone base station on the existing monopole at the above address. RFNSA: 3133007

2. The proposed upgrade will consist of

• Removal of nine (9) existing panel antennas;

• Installation of three (3) new panel antennas (each 2.69m long) at a height of 21.8m;

• Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (each 1.00m long) at a height of 18.5m;

• Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (each 0.79m long) at a height of 24.5m;

• 3. 4.

Chatswood NSW 2067 by 5pm Thursday 5 March 2026.

For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visit www.rfnsa.com.au/3133007

Service Stream Ltd A.B.N. 46 072 369 870

Telstra Ltd A.C.N. 086 174 781

Amplitel Pty Ltd A.C.N: 648 133 073

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