The Local Paper. Eastern Suburbs Edition. Wed., Mar. 11, 2026

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2026

● ● ● ● Bayswater MLA Jackson Taylor with Julie Buxton. Photo: Facebook.

LABOR’S BAYSWATER CANDIDATE NAMED SUSPENSION AFTER ‘GRINCHES’ ROW

■ Knox Cr Peter Lockwood has been found to have breached the Model Councillor Code of Conduct following complaints lodged by Crs Lisa Cooper, Glen Atwell, Meagan Baker and Parisa Considine.

Cr Lockwood referred to councillors who opposed funding Christmas decorations as “grinches”.

His online activity, including “liking” Facebook comments that criticised councillors who voted against the decorations, came under criticism, as he did for talking with the media.

The arbiter found the conduct targeted councillors who had voted a particular way during the Christmas decorations debate.

The debate was said to go beyond what could reasonably be considered normal political debate.

Cr Lockwood is to be suspended from the role of councillor for one calendar month.

Knox Council late last year had a marathon two-hour debate that concluded with a vote not to pay for Christmas decorations.

Christmas bows had been proposed at a cost of $15,000 bows were proposed to be installed at Alchester Village, Ferntree Gully Village, Knox Gardens, Knoxfield, Rowville, The Basin and Upper Ferntree Gully

“What a pack of Grinches,” Mr Lockwood said at the time. “It is a trifling amount and it adds to the heart of Christmas, you all lack heart.”

■ The Australian Labor Party has named Julie Buxton as candidate for the Bayswater seat at the November state election.

Ms Buxton plans to succeed sitting MLA Jackson Taylor who announced last year that he will not seek re-election.

“Julie was my first office manager when I was first elected in 2018, and, from day one, I saw how deeply she cared about helping people and making sure our community got the love and attention it deserves,” Mr Taylor said.

“She’s lived in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs her whole life and is now raising her family here.

“Julie is a proud mum of two boys, a small business owner, and someone who understands the pressures families and local businesses face every day.

“Through her work helping communities recover after disasters, Julie knows how government works and how to get things done.

“But just as importantly, she believes good representation starts with listening and working alongside the community.

“She’s also been a strong volunteer in local community groups and sporting clubs - the places that keep our neighbourhoods connected.

“Over the past eight years, we’ve secured record investment for our community - new schools, major road upgrades, community infrastructure and better local services. But there’s still more to do.

“I know Julie will be a strong advocate for our community and someone who will work hard every day to earn your trust and keep delivering for Knox,” Mr Taylor said.

Nationals in their sights

■ Two local brass ensembles will soon represent the City of Whitehorse on the national stage when they travel to Brisbane to compete in the prestigious Australian National Band Championships over the Easter weekend.

Performing under the banner of Box Hill City Band Incorporated, the groups include Whitehorse Brass (B Grade) and the Box Hill Academy Brass (Junior A Grade).

The musicians’ range in age from just seven years old through to experienced senior players, highlighting the organisation’s strong commitment to developing musical talent across generations.

Whitehorse Brass is led by Musical Director Broden Ford, while Box Hill Academy Brass led by Musical Director Lauren Innes

Together, the bands form part of a vibrant musical community that continues to grow throughout Box Hill and the wider City of Whitehorse region.

Before departing for the national championships, the bands, along with the Box Hill Academy Training Band, also directed by Lauren Innes, will present a special PreNationals Concert on Saturday (Mar. 14) from 2pm–4pm at St Luke's Anglican Church, Vermont.

The concert offers a rare opportunity for the public to hear the exact contest repertoire the bands will perform in Brisbane, presented in a contest-style setting.

Featuring a varied program of traditional contest repertoire including hymns, marches, and major works, with one inspired by the dramatic landscapes of the Swiss Alps, and another drawing on themes from the celebrated Symphony No. 3 (OrganSymphony)by renowned French composer Camille Saint-Saëns, offering a special treat for classical music lovers.

Guest adjudicator Dr Matthew van Emmerik will provide expert feedback. This will give the audience a genuine insight into how brass band competitions are evaluated.

Audience members will also be invited to share their own feedback through a short optional online feedback form after the concert.

For music lovers and community members, the event provides a unique chance to support local musicians and experience the excitement of a national-level brass band contest environment without the expense of travelling interstate.

Tickets will be available at the door, and the community is warmly invited to attend and support their local bands as they prepare for the national stage.

Adults - $15. Concession/Seniors - $10. Children (9 - 15 years) - $10. Under 8 - Free

Shopping spree after $200,000 win

■ A young Ringwood man has vowed to spoil his mum rotten and take her on a no-limits shopping spree after discovering he’d pocketed $200,000 in last week’s Lucky Lotteries draw (Wed., Mar. 4).

The local man held the First Prize winning entry in theLucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot draw 1775. He looks forward to a neat $200,000 prize.

After initially doubting lottery officials and hanging up on their call, the winning man then checked his ticket and was thrilled to discover he’d won a major prize.

“Oh my goodness! I’m sorry for hanging up on you earlier,” he exclaimed when finally speaking with an official from The Lott

“I’m so happy. I have my mum by my side and we can’t believe it.

“It’s amazing news that’s going to take a while to process.

“I can’t wait to celebrate with my family.”

WAVERLEY RSL HIT BY FIRE

■ Fire Rescue Victoria responded to an incident on Coleman Pde in Glen Waverley at 7.08am Wednesday (Mar. 4), following multiple calls to Triple Zero (000) reporting smoke coming from the Glen Waverley RSL . Firefighters arrived on scene in three minutes to find a 20m x 30m building involved in fire, impacting the roof space of the premises.

FRV and CFA crews wearing breathing apparatus worked quickly to combat the fire, which is believed to have originated in the kitchen.

Crews conducted an external attack of the building due to concerns about the structural integrity of the property and to ensure firefighter safety.

Approximately 60 firefighters were on scene with the efforts have taking approximately two hours to bring the incident under control.

The incident was deemed under control at 9.14am.

FRV firefighters were to remain on scene to monitor for hotspots and ensure that the fire did not reignite.

A community warning was issued for smoke in the area.

There were no occupants in the building at the time of the incident.

The Glen Waverley RSL experienced extensive damage due to the fire in both the gaming area and the members areas.

FRV worked closely with the RSL to gain access to encased memorabilia a priority to ensure it wouldn't be damaged.

The majority of memorabilia has remained intact and undamaged by the fire, though some may have smoke damage.

Victoria Police were on scene to assist.

Croydon local celebrates

■ Captain Fiona Eggins was born in Melbourne, spending the first 13 years of her childhood in Croydon before moving around Australia and the UK

She joined the Navy in 2001, arriving at the Australian Defence Force Academy straight out of high school, just as 9/11 was about to change the focus for the ADF.

Becoming Commanding Officer of HMAS Waterhen allowed her to shift her focus to people, culture and the power of inclusive leadership, which is an enduring part of her service today.

Captain Eggins describes herself as “neuro-spicy”. Receiving recent diagnoses of autism and ADHD has given her a better understanding of some of the challenges she has faced. This has strengthened her advocacy for neurodivergent and non-traditional thinkers across Defence

Author Talk with Danny Ben-Moshe

■ An author talk will be given at Wheelers Hill Library, 860 Ferntree Gully Rd, Wheelers Hill, at 6.30pm-7.30pm on Thursday (Mar. 12). It is a free ticketed event.

Award-winning writer, journalist and filmmaker Danny Ben-Moshe will discuss his new book The Watchmaker’s War.

Based on a true story, The Watchmaker’s War is a gripping, highstakes account of Nazi hunters in Australia and the war criminals they pursued - killers with links to the highest levels of Australia’s spy agency. Through meticulous research and powerful storytelling, Ben-Moshe uncovers a hidden chapter of post-war history that raises urgent and unsettling questions.

60-Year Service Jewels for Ken Cribbes and Bob Pearce

MICKLEHAM Skateboard death

■ A man has died in hospital after falling from an electric skateboard in Mickleham.

Investigators have been told the man was riding the board in the vicinity of St Georges Blvd about 7.40pm on February 18.

It is believed he lost control of the skateboard and struck his head on the roadway. He was taken to hospital where he later died. Police will prepare a report for the Coroner.

MULGRAVE

Fatal crash

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash which occurred in Mulgrave on Wednesday afternoon (Mar. 4).

Emergency services were called to Police Rd, Mulgrave, about 3.40pm after reports a car had left the road and crashed into a tree.

Crews attended to the female driver but she could not be revived.

A child travelling in the rear of the car was uninjured.

Investigations are ongoing into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

SOUTHERN SUBURBS

Crime spree

■ Southern Metro Region Crime Squad detectives have charged three men following an extensive investigation into a series of incidents across Melbourne between February 23 and March 2.

It is alleged that offenders attempted to gain access to a home on Honeyeater Way in Pakenham about 4am on February 23.

A resident, home at the time, went to their front door and observed multiple alleged offenders, carrying machetes and baseball bats.

It is alleged one of the offenders was also in possession of a firearm.

The alleged offenders did not gain access to the home and fled the scene.

Shortly after, two occupants of a property on Astley Way in Lynbrook woke to commotion inside their home about 4.20am.

The alleged intruders were spooked by the occupants and their dogs, before fleeing in a black Audi and a white Mitsubishi ASX

Investigators allege the black Audi was stolen from a Waterways address and the Mitsubishi was stolen from a Preston address during February.

Detectives allege the previous incidents are linked to an aggravated burglary at a property on Salamanca Drive in Clyde North on Monday afternoon (Mar. 2).

A group of men allegedly stole a wallet before being disturbed by a resident returning home. It is alleged the men fled the scene. There were no injuries.

Detectives from the Casey Crime Investigation Unit and the Southern Metro Crime Squad, with assistance from members of the Special Operations Group, arrested three men at a Shafer Circuit address in Endeavor Hills on Monday night.

A 22-year-old man of no fixed abode has been charged with numerous offences including home invasion.

An 18-year-old Frankston man has been charged with numerous offences including home invasion, armed robbery and arson.

A 23-year-old Frankston man has been charged with assaulted related offences. Each of the men were remanded to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court

WYNDHAM VALE

Firearms arrest

■ Westgate Divisional Response Unit members have arrested and charged a 19-yearold man with firearms offences after executing a warrant in Wyndham Vale on Tuesday (Mar. 3).

Officers attended a Brassy St property about 4pm and executed a firearms warrant.

The property was searched and it is alleged police located a modified slam gun and ammunition along with a sword and cocaine.

The 19-year-old was interviewed and charged with prohibited person possess firearm, possess unregistered general category handgun, possess prohibited weapon, possess cocaine, handle stolen goods and possess cartridge ammunition without a licence. He was remanded to appear at Wyndham Magistrates’ Court on March 4.

CRIME SQUAD INVESTIGATES ARSON ATTACK AT GLENROY

■ Detectives from the Gang Crime Squad will investigate an arson attack on a tobacco store and a subsequent car fire in Glenroy.

It is understood two men, one of them holding a firearm, got out of a white MercedesBenz sedan and entered the shop on Belair Avenue just before 10pm.

Officers were told they poured fuel onto the counter and the floor, before igniting it and running outside the store.

The two staff members inside the shop at the time managed to contain the small fire and were not physically injured.

Police were told the offenders fled the scene in the white sedan and headed west on Belair Avenue.

The Mercedes-Benz was located on fire three minutes later at the intersection of Becket St North and Augustine Terrace in Glenroy.

The vehicle was bearing stolen plates.

Detectives from Merri-Bek Crime Investigation Unit are investigating a firearms incident at the intersection of Plumpton Avenue and Lewis St in Glenroy which occurred at approximately 2.38am. At this stage, police believe the incidents are linked.

A white RAV4 is captured on CCTV at 2.32am travelling west bound on Lewis St

Police believe a number of offenders in the RAV4 damaged a vehicle parked on the street, leaving it with a smashed windscreen and damaged door.

As a result, shots have been fired from a residence on the street impacting an unrelated premises on Lewis St

Detectives from Merri-Bek CIU executed two search warrants at linked addresses in Glenroy.

A 30-year-Glenroy man was arrested and will now be interviewed by police.

Five firearms, including an AK47, were seized.

Police believe both incidents were targeted and the investigation remains ongoing.

Detective Inspector Graham Banks, Gang Crime Squad, said: “A number of significant arrests recently made in Victoria, interstate and offshore have had a substantial impact on the operations of an alleged criminal enterprise here in Victoria

“What we’re seeing now is an escalation of violent offending by various organised crime syndicates vying for control of the illicit tobacco market.

“Since this series of fires started back in March 2023, we have been extremely forthright about the risks they present to the community and the potential for these arson attacks to result in the death or serious injury of innocent people.

“A substantial investigation into not only the fires, but also the organised crime groups we believe are responsible, has been in place from very early on in the series and remains a high priority for Victoria Police

“We know these groups are reckless when it comes to seeking control over illicit tobacco profits and they do not care for the safety of the broader community.

“We’ve arrested over 200

people we believe to be involved in offending linked to these syndicates, with many of them before the court for serious offences, including arson, extortion, firearms related violence and money laundering.

“We know people are concerned given these tobacco stores are still being set alight, but what I would say is we do know the people who are involved, and we will continue working with our partner agencies to actively target those syndicates. Victoria Police will do everything we can to hold them accountable.”

MELBOURNE Man arrested

■ Detectives from the Missing Persons Squad have arrested a 42-year-old man as part of their investigation into the 2012 suspicious disappearance of Brendan Breen. Investigators travelled to Queensland and arrested the Brisbane man.

He was interviewed and released pending further enquiries.

The arrest forms part of the investigation into the disappearance of 55-year-old Brendan, who was last seen in Melbourne on April 12, 2012.

He was then reported missing to police in May 9, 2012 by his seperated spouse, who he remained on good terms.

She became concerned when he cancelled dinner with her last minute via text message and then stopped answering her phone calls.

They were initially unsure whether Brendan had chosen to disappear of his own accord.

A public appeal was also issued, however this did not lead to any further information about Brendan’s whereabouts.

Despite a number of enquiries over the next few years, Brendan could not be located.

In October 2018, Brendan failed to appear at his

BALLARAT

Statewide

Hit-run charges

■ Broadmeadows Uniform Police members have charged a man following an alleged hit-run collision in Ballarat on December 5.

Officers will allege a pedestrian was struck by a grey Nissan Patrol SUV at the intersection of Sturt St and Armstrong St North

The victim, a 65-year-old Illawarra woman, was hospitalised with significant non-life-threatening injuries.

It is alleged the driver stopped momentarily before the Nissan was driven away from the scene.

Following the execution of a search warrant at a storage facility in Derrimut, police located and seized a Nissan, allegedly involved in the collision.

Police also uncovered an alleged stolen black Holden station wagon in the storage unit.

Melton Crime Investigation Unit detectives executed a search warrant at a premises on Jory St, Creswick on January 28.

Detectives located two shotguns, ammunition, methylamphetamine, An allegedly stolen black Holden Commodore ute, laptops, passports, identity documents and electronic devices allegedly used to facilitate vehicle thefts.

A 41-year-old Eynesbury man was arrested at the scene and charged with possess traffickable quantity of unregistered firearms, prohibited person possess firearm, theft of motor vehicle, reckless conduct endanger life, fail to render assistance after accident and numerous other charges.

He was remanded in custody and will appear at Ballarat Magistrates’ Court on March 12.

daughter’s funeral and his family believed this to be out of character as the pair were close.

The matter was reviewed and detectives now believe Brendan’s disappearance is suspicious, and he has most likely met with foul play.

His bank accounts and phone have never been accessed, and there has never been any reported sightings of Brendan. Brendan was known to police and had previously been charged with fraud offences, spending several years in a correctional facility.

Over the past 14 years, police have spoken to a range of Brendan’s friends and associates in an effort to try and determine his whereabouts, who may be involved in his disappearance and any possible motivation for causing him harm.

Brendan is described as 183cm tall with a medium build, olive complexion, grey receding hair and blue eyes.

He was also previously known by the name Brendan Green, Brian Greer and Brendan Lacombe

Police are also re-releasing images of Brendan in the hope that they will assist people to come forward with information about his disappearance.

Victoria Police acknowledges the strong community concern regarding this incident and extends its thanks to the passers-by who rendered assistance to the injured woman.

MILDURA Drugs seized

■ Two men have been charged after approximately 120kgs of pseudoephedrine was located concealed underneath the floorboards of a shipping container.

The pseudoephedrine was detected by Australian Border Force officials on January 23 who in turn notified Victoria Police

The pseudoephedrine was seized and replaced with an inert substance.

Pseudoephedrine is a main ingredient in the manufacture of methylamphetamine.

On Saturday, February 28 police were notified that the consignment had been collected.

Officers from Mildura Divisional Response Unit subsequently attended an address in Euston, New South Wales

Two men present at the address fled on foot. With the assistance of New South Wales Police Force, the two men were taken into custody in Euston, New South Wales.

Detectives from the Clandestine Laboratory Squad travelled to Mildura on Sunday, March 1, to extradite the two men.

Two men from Robinvale, a 38-year-old and a 50-year-old, were charged with the Commonwealth offence of attempt to import border-controlled drug and attempt to traffick large commercial quantity drug of dependence.

The duo was extradited to Victoria and remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on June 15.

On Tuesday, March 2, Clandestine Laboratory Squad, with assistance from Mildura Crime Investigation Unit, Mildura Divisional Response Unit and New South Wales Police Force executed a further three search warrants at residential addresses in Robinvale, Victoria and Euston, New South Wales

An imitation firearm (pump action shot gun) was seized.

Detective Senior Sergeant Liam Tinkler, Mildura CIU , said: “This 120kg of pseudoephedrine would likely have been made into illicit drugs to sell on our streets, meaning we have stopped ill-gotten gains from reaching the pockets of those involved in this insidious venture.

“Organised criminals distribute these harmful substances anywhere they see fit to make a profit, knowing full well the harm these drugs cause to our community.

"We've made no secret of the fact that Victoria Police is determined to make this state a hostile place for organised crime and in particular, those who are engaged in the manufacture and importation of drugs.”

57 years. Since 1969.

Police Rounds

CBD arrest

■ Police have charged a man after he allegedly failed to stop, then collided with a police vehicle as he tried to get away in Melbourne’s CBD on Friday morning (Mar. 6).

Officers attempted to intercept a white Kia sedan, which was allegedly driving erratically on Elizabeth St about 3.15am.

The Kia allegedly failed to stop and turned into La Trobe St, before reaching a dead-end in a laneway.

Officers blocked the Kia in, but the male driver collided with a police van as he attempted to flee the scene.

The two male police officers inside the van at the time were not physically injured.

The driver of the Kia , a 38-year-old Ferntree Gully man, was arrested at the scene and taken into custody to be interviewed.

Police searched the vehicle, which displayed false plates, and allegedly located drugs inside.

The man was charged with possess and traffick Methamphetamine, deal property suspected to be proceeds of crime, drive whilst disqualified, careless driving, affix false registration plate and other traffic offences.

He was to be presented to Melbourne Magistrates’ Court

Ex-Mayor spotlight

■ “A former suburban Melbourne mayor facing shocking child sex allegations is the latest high-profile man to have his identity concealed by the court on mental health grounds,” reports thre Herald Sun.

Lakes Entrance fatal

■ Police are investigating a fatal crash in Lakes Entrance on Saturday (Mar. 7).

Emergency services were called to reports a car crashed into an embankment and rolled on Princes Hwy, near Lake Bunga Beach Rd, about 11.30am.

The driver and sole occupant died at the scene. The investigation into the circumstances of the crash is ongoing.

Castlemaine burglary

■ Central Goldfields Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged two teens following an aggravated burglary in Castlemaine on Thursday morning (Mar. 5).

It is alleged the pair gained access to a residence on Reckleben St and stole keys to a 2025 Toyota Prado about 3am.

The Toyota was stolen and later tracked along the Calder Hwy into Sunbury where stop sticks were successfully deployed on the Calder Fwy.

The Air Wing followed the vehicle along CityLink into the Melbourne CBD where it collided with a kerb at the intersection of Flinders and Spencer Sts

A 17-year-old boy from the Goldfields area and a 16-year-old boy from the Banyule area have been charged with home invasion, theft of motor vehicle, and dangerous driving while being pursued by police.

Both have been remanded to appear before a children’s court at a later date.

Death at Tongala

■ One person has died following a single vehicle crash in Tongala on Sunday (Mar. 8). Emergency services responded to the crash on Day Rd just before 9.30pm. A vehicle, with four occupants, had rolled.

One person died at the scene, three other people are being treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2026

COMANCHERO GANG BLITZ: 56 ARRESTED

■ Police arrested 56 people and laid 168 charges as part of a national day of action targeting the Comanchero outlaw motorcycle gang.

The national Taskforce Morpheus day of action – which ran on Thursday (Mar. 5) – focused particularly on the link between gangs and the illicit tobacco trade and other associated criminality.

Detectives from the Echo Taskforce, VIPER Taskforce, Illicit Firearms Squad and Dog Squad as well as police from Western Region were supported by the Sheriff’s Office and conducted two FPO services and eight compliance searches.

A further two search warrants were executed, and members assisted the Sheriff’s Office with the execution of their enforceable actions.

Locations included Parkdale, Clayton, Thomastown, Newcomb, Mount Waverley, Langwarrin, Robinvale (2), Fraser Rise, Berwick, Sunshine and Narre Warren South.

A 42-year-old Berwick man, believed to be a patched member of the Comanchero OMCG, was charged with traffick drug of dependence and possess drug of dependence.

He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on May 27.

Sheriff’s Officers actioned warrants worth approximately $165,000.

National Taskforce Morpheus is a joint initiative through which all Australian state and territory police, Australian Federal Police, Australian Border Force, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, Australian Defence Force, Australian Taxation Office, Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre, Services Australia and New Zealand Police collaboratively target the highest threat outlaw motorcycle gangs impacting Australia

In total, Taskforce Morpheus resulted in:

■ 56 arrests,

■ 168 charges,

■ 37 FPO compliance searches,

■ The execution of 51 search warrants, and

■ The seizure of illicit drugs, firearms and cash.

Detective Inspector Mick Daly, Echo Taskforce, said: “Taskforce Morpheus has been a very successful national and international operation over the last decade. This includes multiple operations conducted that have seen outlaw motorcycle gang (OMCG) members arrested, charged and held to account via the criminal justice system.

“Law enforcement and partner government agencies will continue to use our full range of shared capabilities to proactively target OMCGs, across Australia, New Zealand and internationally.

“This will be done at every opportunity and we will be relentless in pursuing OMCGs. National Taskforce Morpheus will not stop disrupting and holding OMCGs to account for their criminal actions,” Det. Insp. Daly said.

HOME INVASION AT SHELFORD

3 UNKNOWN OFFENDERS

■ Moorabool Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance as they investigate a home invasion in Shelford.

It is understood three unknown offenders gained access to a residence on Thomson St about 5.35am on Frida, January 9.

The offenders were spooked when the residents of the home yelled out and they fled on foot empty handed.

There were no injuries.

Detectives have released CCTV and images of three men they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.

The trio are described as males wearing hooded jumpers and face coverings.

Murder charge

■ Homicide Squad detectives charged a man on Friday morning (Mar. 6) following the fatal stabbing of a man in Newborough on Thursday (Mar. 5).

A 51-year-old Newborough man has been charged with one count of murder.

He was to appear at Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court.

The charge follows an incident where emergency services were called to a property on Newark Avenue just before 5pm.

A 61-year-old Newborough man was located with fatal stab wounds inside the property.

Police believe the parties involved were known to each other.

$21,700

on junket

■ Greater Dandenong Council told the Herald Sun it would send seven representatives (six councillors and its Executive Director of Strategy and Corporate Services Marjan Hajjari) to Canberra at a total cost of about $21,700 to the National General Assembly.

Ballarat thefts

■ Detectives from the Ballarat Criminal Investigation Unit and Divisional Response Unit have charged a man after seizing stolen goods including copper in Sebastopol. Investigators executed a search warrant at a property on Vale St, Sebastopol, about 8:35am on March 4.

They immediately arrested a 38-year-old man who was allegedly in the process of stripping copper from stolen cabling. Also located during the search warrant were:

■ Extensive amounts of copper that had been allegedly stolen overnight from houses under construction in the Winter Valley and Bonshaw areas

■ an amount of building hardware and materials allegedly stolen from building sites in the Bonshaw and Winter Valley areas ■ power tools/items from a burglary at Smythesdale Cemetery

Total estimated financial impact is approximately $25,000.

Six homes under construction had copper stolen and underground power damage to the value of $500-$3500 per house. This damage will set construction back approximately two weeks, at a cost of $2000 per house and an additional cost to the homeowner’s mortgage.

The Sebastopol man has been charged with theft, handle stolen goods, possessing the proceeds of crime, possessing drugs of dependence and possess counterfeit money. He was bailed to appear at the Ballarat Magistrates’ Court on April 27.

Learner sidelined

■ A prob-tionary driver and a motorcycle rider on L plates were both intercepted by police in Western Region on Saturday (Mar. 7). Woodend Uniform Police spotted a Kia sedan, displaying P-plates, allegedly driving 126-kmh in an 80-kmh speed zone along Romsey Rd about 10.30am.

The 21-year-old male driver had his car impounded on the spot at a cost of $1175. He will be summonsed to appear at Kyneton Magistrates’ Court to answer traffic charges.

Officers from the State Highway Patrol Solo Unit intercepted a motorcycle allegedly travelling well above the speed limit on Surf Coast Hwy in Mount Duneed, about 1.30pm. The rider was detected travelling at 165-kmh in a 100-kmh speed zone.

The 22-year-old male rider, who had only held a learner’s permit for four days, had their ride impounded at a cost of $1325.

INNER-CITY

Commercial burgs

■ Stonnington Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man following two commercial burglaries in Prahran and Carlton over the weekend.

It is alleged a man gained entry to a business on Malvern Rd in Prahran about 2am on Saturday, March 7.

The man allegedly stole cash and food items before fleeing the scene.

Investigators allege the same man gained access to a second franchise of the same business, on Faraday St in Carlton, about 1.15am on Sunday, March 8.

The man allegedly stole cash before leaving the scene.

Detectives arrested a 43-year-old Cowes man in Templestowe about 9.30pm on Sunday night (Mar. 8).

Officers seized night vision goggles and signal jamming equipment.

The 43-year-old was charged with two counts of burglary and bailed to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on October 2.

Melbourne Observer

TOWNSVILLE

Abuse material

■ A Townsville man was expected to face Townsville Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Mar. 9) charged with accessing and possessing child abuse material.

The AFP Joint Anti Child Exploitation Team charged the man, 22, after investigating a report from the United States’ National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about an Australian allegedly uploading child abuse material to an instant messaging platform.

Investigators executed a search warrant at a home on February 19, where they seized multiple electronic devices.

A forensic examination of the devices allegedly identified multiple child abuse material files.

The man was given police bail with strict conditions to appear in court today.

Brisbane Sun

GLOBAL CRIME NETWORK BUSTED: 15 ARRESTS

■ The seizure of two mobile phones in a small Swedish town has exposed a criminal architecture stretching across Europe, Asia and Australia

C-ordinated actions in Spain, Sweden and Thailand on Wednesday (mar. 4) struck key nodes of this network, building on earlier operational activity in Australia

Forensic analysis of the devices led international law enforcement to multiple, interconnected organised crime networks allegedly involved in large-scale drug trafficking and money laundering.

The scale and structure of the criminal ecosystem only emerged once investigators unlocked the data inside the devices.

Led by Swedish authorities and known as Operation Candy, the investigation began in November, 2023, after Swedish law enforcement seized two mobile phones from an alleged drug trafficker in Sweden

Forensic analysis of the devices revealed encrypted communications, international contacts and operational details reaching far beyond Sweden.

Sophisticated web

Specialists at Europol supported Swedish investigators in analysing the data. Police allegedly uncovered multiple criminal networks dealing in synthetic drugs and large-scale money laundering.

The groups allegedly shared facilitators and used a sophisticated web of corporate entities to obscure ownership, logistics and financial flows.

Data recovered from the devices exposed how the interconnected networks operated across multiple crime areas and jurisdictions.

In a Swedish investigation that led to Thailand, network members were allegedly running a large-scale online drug distribution business supplying customers in the Nordic region.

In Sweden, actors were allegedly managing domestic drug distribution while operating parallel money laundering structures to recycle criminal profits.

In Germany, 1.2 tonnes of illicit drugs alleg-

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edly destined for Australia was intercepted, resulting in the arrests in Victoria of two alleged local distributors.

In Spain, a high-value target was allegedly facilitating large-scale narcotics trafficking. Authorities overseas carried out about 20 simultaneous house searches on Wednesday, striking key nodes of the network. These actions were coordinated from command posts at several locations in Europe

High-value

The operation resulted in:

■ 13 arrests in Spain, Sweden and Thailand.

■ The targeting of multiple high-value criminal figures.

■ Significant seizures of criminal assets, including large sums of cash, watches, jewellery, vehicles and yachts worth 4 million Euro, with tracing of more assets to come.

These actions built on operational activity in Australia last year against two alleged members of an organised criminal syndicate, bringing the total number of arrests to 15.

The Victorian Joint Organised Crime Taskforce, comprising the Australian Federal Police, Victoria Police and Australian Border Force, started an investigation after receiving a referral from German Customs German Customs officers detected and seized 1.2 tonnes of illicit drugs destined for Melbourne in February 2025 following a thorough and complex analysisof two shipping containers manifested to contain a product commonly used in the manufacture of roads.

German law enforcement removed the illicit substances before allowing the consignment to be shipped to Australia

When the containers arrived at the Port of Melbourne in April 2025, Australian law enforcement agencies inserted an inert substance into the consignment and then released it for delivery under police surveillance.

Warehouse

The consignment was sent to a warehouse in Victoria’s central highlands, before being delivered to a factory in the Melbourne suburb of Sunshine. Two men, aged 32 and 52, are currently before the courts in Australia charged for their roles in the alleged importation attempt.

Acting Deputy Head of the Operations Department of the Swedish Police Authority, Mats Berggren, said that the borderless nature of organised crime was a challenge.

“But we have once again proven that you can’t hide behind country borders or digital borders.

“When we share information and act together as one international system we strike back on organized crime. We want to thank our partners in Germany, Australia, Spain, Thailand, Europol and Eurojust for joining forces with us in this operation,” Mr Berggren said.

AFP Commander Christopher Woods said organised crime operated in a borderless environment and the arrests demonstrated the importance of coordinated international action.

“The AFP’s role is to combat organised crime impacting Australia’s national security and to keep Australians safe; while also sharing intelligence and resources with global partners to support their efforts to protect their communities,” Commander Woods said.

“The arrests in Europe and Australia are a direct result of the commitment, tenacity and agility of investigators in multiple countries.

The AFP and our partners in the Victorian Joint Organised Crime Taskforce - Victoria Police and the Australian Border Force –worked closely with counterparts.”

Across Australia

WESTERN SYDNEY 26 years jail

■ A Western Sydney man was jailed for 26 years by the Downing Centre District Court after pleading guilty to 17 child abuse offences, including having sexual intercourse with minors.

The man, 28, will serve a non-parole period of 19 years and six months.

An AFP investigation began after the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation received two separate reports regarding an online user soliciting child abuse material and discussing the sexual abuse of child victims.

AFP inquiries linked the man to both reports.

A search warrant was executed in Cambridge Park on November 9, 2023, with investigators finding child abuse material on electronic devices.?

Further police inquiries found the man had sexually assaulted and abused two minors on numerous occasions.

The man pleaded guilty to the following charges on May 2, 2025:

■ 10 counts of sexual intercourse with a child under 10 years of age;

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

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

■ One count of using a carriage service to transmit, make available, publish, distribute or promote child abuse material;

■ Two counts of aggravated use of a child under 10 to produce child abuse material; and

■ Two counts of intentionally sexually touching a child under 10 years.

AFP Detective Superintendent Luke Needham said child protection investigators worked tirelessly to identify and prosecute those who preyed on children, whether the offending was online or physical.

Sydney Mail

CANBERRA

Choking incidents

■ Two men and a woman have been charged after allegedly choking and assaulting their partners and former partners during separate family violence incidents.

A 39-year-old Queanbeyan man allegedly choked his former partner before stabbing her in the leg with a knife in Tuggeranong on Friday (Mar. 6). He was located in Narrabundah on Saturday morning and arrested.

On Saturday morning, a 20-year-old man allegedly choked and hit his former partner at his apartment in Kingston after taking her phone to prevent her from leaving the residence.

That evening, a 44-year-old Stirling woman was arrested after she allegedly choked and assaulted her partner while he was holding a young child.

All three have been charged with various family violence offences, including choking/suffocating/strangling another person, assault, intentional wounding, and forcible confinement.

They were due to appear before the ACT Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Mar. 9).

Canberra Observer

ANGLE PARK

Abduction arrests

■ Western district detectives in South Australia arrested a fourth and final suspect following an ongoing investigation into an incident at Angle Park

It will be alleged that between Monday-Wednesday, February 2-4, a 30-yearold man was held against his will at an Angle Park property where he was assaulted on several occasions by multiple suspects. After three days, the victim managed to escape and sought assistance from members of the public who contacted police. He did not sustain serious physical injuries during the ordeal.

A 41-year-old man from Angle Park, 22-year-old man from Woodville Gardens and 26-year-old man from Parafield Gardens were arrested in the days following the incident. They were charged with serious offences including unlawful detention and aggravated assault, and are were remanded in custody.

Adelaide Sun

Travellers Washington Lodge Meeting at Oakleigh

ARIES (March 21 – April 20)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 1, 6, 3, 2

Lotto Numbers: 13, 15, 26, 23, 32, 10

There is much more to do now, and less time to do it, which will make you very busy during this period. Unexpected travel or surprising destinations may arise. Stay organised and pace yourself carefully to avoid unnecessary stress.

TAURUS (April 21 – May 20)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 2, 6, 5, 4

Lotto Numbers: 1, 5, 19, 24, 40, 22

If your love life has felt quiet lately, this is the time to get things moving again. Improvements in financial matters are likely to come very soon, but avoid getting involved in questionable dealings. Steady progress will bring the best results.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Sunday

Racing Numbers: 8, 5, 6, 2

Lotto Numbers: 13, 15, 24, 40, 22, 11

Help and support may come from unexpected sources. Those in positions of authority are taking a greater interest in your career matters. Financial conditions should improve, and a surprise gift or win could lift your spirits.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 2, 1

Lotto Numbers: 13, 15, 25, 24, 1, 33

A significant opportunity, such as a new business venture or job, should not be ignored. It may require more work and longer hours, but it offers strong financial rewards. Consider the long-term benefits.

LEO (July 23 – August 22)

Lucky Colour: Hazel

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 2, 6, 3, 2

Lotto Numbers: 12, 15, 23, 26, 24, 40

Love may not be exactly as you would like right now, but improvement is on the way. There is some luck in games of chance, and you may experience fortunate developments involving a Libra.

VIRGO (August 23 – September 23)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 2, 4, 5, 7

Lotto Numbers: 8, 19, 26, 14, 40, 45

Communications are strong during this period, and a sense of well-being should continue. Financial matters may require extra attention, but the effort you invest now will pay off in the end.

LIBRA (September 24 – October 23)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 1, 5, 4, 2

Lotto Numbers: 1, 10, 15, 24, 40, 42

Loved ones must understand your true feelings to avoid misunderstandings later. Travel may be on the agenda, bringing opportunities to meet interesting people from distant places.

SCORPIO (October 24 – November 22)

Lucky Colour: Lilac

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 1, 5, 6, 2

Lotto Numbers: 13, 16, 25, 24, 40, 33

Singles may meet someone very significant during this time, while those already committed could experience deeper emotional bonds. Business and career matters continue to improve steadily.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 – December 20)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 1, 6, 4, 8

Lotto Numbers: 13, 15, 26, 28, 38, 30

Listening to sound advice will serve you well. People in influential positions may come to your aid. If starting a new business or career, ensure that all agreements are clearly documented.

CAPRICORN (December 21 – January 19)

Lucky Colour: Mauve

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 1, 5, 4, 2

Lotto Numbers: 1, 6, 13, 25, 36, 40

There are many developments ahead, and you may soon consider relocating. Financial matters require careful handling. A practical option taken now will benefit you in the long run.

AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 19)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2, 6, 3, 2

Lotto Numbers: 1, 6, 13, 23, 32, 10

Something you believed was finished could resurface. Asking for assistance is wise and will not diminish your independence. Others are more willing to support you than you realise.

PISCES (February 20 – March 20)

Lucky Colour: Dark Blue

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 3, 5, 4, 2

Lotto Numbers: 13, 15, 29, 37, 45, 1

Most people will readily agree with your ideas during this period. Tact and diplomacy remain your strongest tools. A project started some time ago should now begin to show a profit.

CHILD ABUSE RING: 26 ON 1000 OFFENCES

■ Twenty-six members of a secret online child exploitation group have been charged with more than 1000 offences after one of the most significant online child abuse investigations in Australia

A year-long covert investigation by the Asutralian Federal Police and Victoria Police under the Victoria Joint Anti-Child Exploitation Team began in late 2023 following intelligence shared by Queensland Police Service.

This led to the infiltration of an online group using an encrypted messaging application to share text and imagebased material, and source children to sexually abuse.

Law enforcement can now reveal the details as investigations have concluded.

The online group was shut down and 26 Victorian-based alleged members were charged with more than 1000 offences, including the possession, access, transmission, solicitation, and production of child abuse material.

Convicted

Many of the men charged have now been convicted and sentenced to terms of imprisonment, while others remain before the courts.

Group members shared collections of child abuse material and child sexual abuse fantasies in the mistaken belief the app’s encryption would shield them from detection.

This included images and videos depicting the sexual abuse, torture and murder of infants and young children, as well as bestiality.

No newly generated material involving Australian children was identified during the course of the investigation.

As a result of the efforts to identify members of the group, who were believed to be based across Australia and overseas, AFP and Victoria Police JACET investigators executed 31 search warrants across Victoria and seized 100 electronic devices.

About 65,000 unique child abuse images and videos were identified including more than 300 hours of child abuse videos - the equivalent of about 175 feature films.

12 years jail

Some 19 referrals were made to domestic and international law enforcement agencies, which resulted in the arrest of nine further alleged offenders by NSW Police Force

A Melbourne man, 46, was charged with creating and administering a group on the encrypted messaging application for the sharing of child abuse material. He was sentenced to more than 12 years’ imprisonment by the County Court in Melbourne in September 2024.

A Central Victorian man was charged with more than 250 offences relating to transmitting, accessing, producing and soliciting child abuse material through various individuals he met in the group. In December 2025, he was sentenced to six years’ imprisonment.

Victoria Police Detective Superintendent Tim McKinney, Cybercrime Division, said the material shared between this group was truly

among the most depraved ever seen by law enforcement.

“Our investigators faced the distressing task of combing through 300+ hours of material,” D/Supt McKinney said.

Desire

“There were also written conversations where these participants expressed their desire to find children and infants in real life.

“Though we believe the contact offending in this material occurred offshore, this investigation highlights that there are individuals living in our community who for unfathomable reasons want access to this material and by their interest feed its production and distribution.

“There are international law enforcement efforts to identify the creators and consumers of this material no matter where they may be.

“The majority of the 26 men charged in Victoria were not previously known to law enforcement. Without this covert operation, these men would not have been stopped, and they would not have been brought to justice.

“The harsh reality is that the prevalence of child abuse material in society is only growing, and there is no set idea of what an offender looks like. It can be anyone – a young person in their teens, someone who is married with a family, people in relationships.

Forensics

“Our investigators will never stop; they will continue to work tirelessly to prevent children from further harm. Everything you do online leaves a footprint and is almost impossible to conceal. If you believe hiding behind a screen affords you anonymity, you are wrong. You can and very well should expect a knock on the door from law enforcement.

“This major investigation involved AFP and Victoria Police members, from areas including investigations, covert operations, digital forensics and victim identification.”

75 Years Ago

AFP Detective Superintendent Bernard Geason said the child abuse material shared in the secret online chat group was so abhorrent and extreme it had rattled long-serving child protection investigators.

“I am extremely proud of the persistence of the investigators involved in this extremely distressing investigation. I would like to thank them for their unwavering dedication to identifying the alleged offenders and stopping further abuse. This is a hard reminder of how pervasive this crime can be,” Det Supt Geason said.

Perverse

“It is a sad reality where our society has many individuals who will exploit children for their own perverse desires.

“The contents of this chat group are among the worst of the worst. This investigation has stopped people sharing violent abuse material and disrupted an online market of misery – but there is a tidal wave of this material on the internet and constant demands for more.

“Each of the men charged during this investigation likely thought they were cloaked and hidden behind layers of encryption.

“Let this be a reminder –law enforcement is everywhere. Our experts are among the best in the world at exposing and stopping anyone involved in the exploitation of children.

“The AFP and its partners will never stop trying to protect children, no matter where they live, from the scourge of exploitation and abuse.”

The AFP and Victoria Police have also continued to assist global efforts to identify children depicted in the videos and images by adding the material to the International Child Sexual Exploitation database.

This will help the global victim-identification and international law enforcement community to piece together clues which could identify victims, their locations and other offenders.

The Argus. Sat., Mar. 10, 1951.

Fight will go on

■ When the Full High Court yesterday threw out the Anti-Red Bill it knocked the last prop from under the Commonwealth Government's industrial programme and made a general election even more certain.

But in Canberra last night Mr. Menzies, Prime Minister, grimly told newsmen: "This isn't the end of the fight against Communism. It's merely the beginning.

"In spite of the Communists, and in spite of the Chifley-Evatt section of the Labor Party at Canberra, the community must either have, or get, the power to defend itself against internal wreckers."

Mr. Chifley , Opposition leader, commented: "The Labor Party all along has regarded the bill, and in particular section nine of it, as monstrous."

Mr. Menzies has called a meeting of Federal Cabinet on Monday to consider'the Full High Court's decision.

One Cabinet Minister said today: "The Government's industrial and defence programmes will now be almost completely frustrated.

"On Monday, we'll discuss the effect the Court's judgment will have on the Government's defence powers.

"Without some defence powers, the Government could not hope to implement its plan for wartime controls."

A senior Liberal MP . said today he would press for a referendum to alter the Constitution to give the Government the necessary power for dealing with Communism, and at the same time of implementing its defence programme.

Stolen jewels

■ Stolen jewels may be here Russell st. detectives yesterday asked Melbourne jewellers and secondhand dealers to watch for pieces of jewellery from a big Perth robbery.

Last weekend £3,655/10/ worth of jewellery was taken from Meldrum's. Central Arcade, Perth West Australian detectives believe interstate criminals were responsible, and that the jewels are now in Melbourne

The haul included: 150 men's watches, 100 women's watches, six stopwatches, six gold watch bands. 72 eternity rings, 150 signet rings, 24 men's rings, 69 opal rings, 36 opal pendants, three opal bracelets, and 15 pairs of opal earrings.

Jelena Dokic tells her story

■ Former World No.4 tennis champion Jelena Dokic shared her powerful story of survival at Manningham’s International Women’s Day breakfast.

“ Jelena , who has pivoted into a highly successful career as a commentator, speaker and author of two best-selling books –Unbreakable and Fearless, was the keynote speaker at our annual event on Monday March 2 to mark International Women’s Day, which was on Sunday (Mar. 8),”: said a Council representative.

“This year’s United Nations Australia theme is ‘Balance the Scales’, a promise that every woman and girl – regardless of background or identity – should be safe, heard and free to shape their own lives.

“Jelena Dokic embodies resilience and triumph. As a tennis player, she made the semi finals of Wimbledon at age 17, and was a doubles Grand Slam finalist at 18.

“But behind the scenes, she endured adversity including years of abuse from her father, as well as racism and bullying.

“At the breakfast, Jelena detailed her journey of survival to finding her voice and using it to support and advocate for others.

“She said she wanted to be a leader and change-maker, and to stop the judgement, shame and stigma surrounding domestic violence and mental health challenges.

“I’m sharing my story and lived experience to help someone else,” Jelena said.

“You can survive and thrive.

“We need more open conversations that lead to change,” Jelena said.

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

“At Manningham we work alongslide partners such as the Victoria Police and Doncare to strengthen prevention, improve access to support services and promote equality across our community and workplace.

“ Inspector Carlie Kohler , of Victoria Police , and Kylie Scouller, Chief Executive Officer of Doncare , joined Jelena for a panel conversation.

“The event went beyond reflection, focussing on practical action, local support pathways and the role we can all play in creating safer communities.

“The panel spoke about the supports that are available locally, what more needs to be done and how we all have the power to make a difference – whether it’s simply listening and providing emotional support, or calling issues out and making reports to police –even anonymously,” the Manningham Council representative said.

Vale Sue Adams

■ Manningham

Mayor Cr Jim Grivas has led tributes from Council for the life of Sue Adams.

“Heartfelt condolences to loved ones of Sue Adams following her passing. Sue was a beloved community member whose impact on Manningham will be felt for years to come. Sue made a significant contribution to the community through Scouting , particularly during her leadership of the Manningham Tende Beck Scout Group.”

My Fair Lady

■ MyFairLady remains one of the world’s most enduring and loved musical treasures, and a lavish recreation based on the 2016 Australian production which was directed by Julie Andrews, will be the first musical to return to Melbourne's rejuvenated and beloved Ian Potter State Theatre in Melbourne

In keeping with the anniversary milestones, Opera Australia is also marking its platinum 70th anniversary this year, making it an extra special double celebration with My Fair Lady in 2026.

Opera Australia

CEO Alex Budd said:

“When it premiered in 1956 My Fair Lady was hailed as ‘wise, witty and winning’, a musical that felt nothing short of miraculous and set a new standard for the art form, and 70 years on, its brilliance continues to shine.

“To once again present this beloved work with Producer John Frost in Opera Australia’s platinum anniversary year, is to honour a landmark of musical theatre that has delighted generations and continues to enchant audiences today.”

Produced by John Frost for Crossroads and directed by Karen Johnson Mortimer, My Fair Lady, the heartwarming story of identity and change, brims with razor sharp wit, unforgettable characters, and a stunning score including Wouldn’t It Be Loverly?, I Could Have Danced All Night and Get Me to the Church on Time.

When Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe premiered their adaptation of George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalionin 1956, it became an instant classic — hailed as “the perfect musical” and winning six Tony Awards.

This production broke box office records when it premiered at the Sydney Opera House for its 60th anniversary in 2016.

A 20-year-old Julie Andrews was catapulted to superstardom when she originated the role of Eliza Doolittle — an irrepressible Cockney flower girl who transforms into a lady of society. The man attempting to remake her? The appealingly arrogant phoneticist Henry Higgins, who may just be the one who is transformed. Casting announcements will be made in the coming weeks.

Venue: Arts Centre Melbourne, State Theatre

Dates: From November Cheryl Threadgold

I Thought You Said

■ I Thought You Said, written and directed by Bronte Lemaire , probes the meaning of activism.

Is activism effective in changing the world, or, in this internet age, is it just about claiming moral superiority, where caring about an issue is just the latest trend cycle?

In the not-too-distant future, Sam , played by Ally Taueki-Gatt , and Frankie , played by Finn Corr , work the night shift stacking shelves, making small talk, and wondering if any customers will turn up.

Before long, the conversation turns darker. This is not the world as we know it. In a dystopian future world, giant conglomerates have taken over production, and mining companies are mining the sky for stars.

So many stars have been mined that there are no longer any constellations, and fragments of stars regularly fall from the sky, fantastically underscored by the appearance of a dying star on the set. The world might be ending because of greed. This frightening premise is at the heart of this drama.

Corr and Taueki-Gatt work well together, developing camaraderie while also serving as foils to challenge ideas: one an armchair socialist, the other a virtue-signaller.

Corr is particularly good at showing their vulnerability by wearing their heart on their sleeve.

The action is splintered with staccato media-saturated projections and directto-audience monologues that represent interior thoughts and anxieties.

There are moments where the pace lags, but the action picks up as both characters question each other’s choices.

What is revealed is hypocrisy and remorse, raising the central question: in the reckoning at the end of the world, what kind of person do you want to be?

Review by Kathryn Keeble

THE WITCHY GIRLS

■ Iris Arc Pictures and Comedy Republic bring the supernatural drag-comedy The Witchy Girls to life from May 3-28 at The Capitol Theatre, Melbourne

Nineties teen witch stories through a chaotic, queer and unapologetically internet-era lens, with audiences invited to experience the show first via a live screening event series this May.

The Witchy Girls follows best friends Lazy Susan and Zelda Moon as they stumble through high school armed with spells, bad judgement and very big hair.

These are not heroic teen witches. Instead, Susan and Zelda are deeply self-involved agents of chaos, facing foes like the Millennium Bug, STDs and the most popular girl at school, while trampling through the lives of everyone around them and never learning a single lesson.

At its heart, The Witchy Girls is about friendship and magic and how friendship is magic. It’s described as 'spooky, campy and draggy, all wrapped up in one cauldron.'

Led by Iris Arc Pictures, the series is being delivered through a bold, live-first production and financing model.

Comedy Republic has partnered as production and exhibition partner, matchfunding the series as a form of distribution guarantee, with revenue from the live screening events directly supporting production.

Following the live run, Comedy Republic will host the full series on its YouTube channel, extending its reach to audiences nationally and internationally.

“This project is exactly the kind of work we believe in,” said Lauren Simpson , Founder and Producer at Iris Arc Pictures “It’s fearless, funny and it’s built around community with audience connection at its core.”

Annie Thiele, Producer at Iris Arc Pictures, said: “The Witchy Girls is the kind of project that reminds you why you make things; its DNA is proudly queer and you’ll laugh so hard you might think The Witchy Girls put a spell on you.”

The series features an extensive cast of celebrated Australian performers and comedians including Alaska Thunderf*ck, Hannah Gadsby, Geraldine Hickey, Rhys Nicholson, Ella Hooper, Sez, Jordan Barr, Genevieve Morris, Hot Department, Hamish MacGregor and more, alongside emerging voices from across comedy, drag and performance.

Audiences will be the first to experience The Witchy Girls through a live screening event series in Melbourne.

Live screening dates: Premiere Screening – Episodes 1 and 2. The Capitol - Sunday May 3

Episodes 3 and 4. Comedy RepublicThursday May 14

Episodes 5 and 6. Comedy RepublicThursday May 28

Tickets for all live events are on sale now at www.thewitchygirls.com/ Cheryl Threadgold

Now

■ Helene Tardif’s Now is a dark and interesting tale of a dystopic future, though it has some flaws.

Part of Theatre Works ‘Fresh Works’ program, this new work is less new world, more trope as old as time, taking a creative look at the generation gap.

The play opens on a family in COVID lockdown. It is ‘ The One’s’ ( Andrew Drava ) birthday.

Their parents ( Helene Tardif and Marc Opitz ) sing Happy Birthday and try to reassure their only child that the dystopia they are living in is temporary.

“It’ll all be over and life will come back. A vaccine’s on its way.”

The One , however, is not reassured.

“Do we have to go back to what it was? What’s my future?”

The One escapes their dystopian reality by creating a virtual world to leave the past behind.

The older generation wants to return to the way it was. An existential crisis ensues as the generations battle one another.

The One comes across as a self-obsessed Incel. A change occurs when they meet a partner ( Georgina Scott) and begin to embrace the real world.

Their parents, however, feel stuck in stereotypes. The angry father whose once safe world is slipping away.

The weight-obsessed mother searching for a meaningful identity through yoga and meditation.

These characters come across as a little too cliched.

An evocative set by Silvia Shao and lighting by Tomas Gerasimidis help to ground the work in the not-too-distant future, where virtual reality is the everyday expectation of younger generations.

Shao’s VR glasses, dotted with tiny lights, help to imagine that the characters are not in our world, cleverly creating an impression of distance.

Review by Kathryn Keeble ●

Sydney Stevens (Dryope), Amy Carlin (Daphne), Bridgette Kelsey (Sombra), Torquil Syme (Strephon), Josh Pratt (Damoetas) Stephanna Betts (Amarylis) Marisa Panzarin (Chrysaea) and Nicholas Beecher (Astrophel) in The Arcadians

Photo: Robin Halls.

■ The setting for Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria's current production, The Arcadians, was as perfect as you could ever imagine.

The Knowe in Sassafras , owned by the co-director Robert Ray , former choreographer for The Australian Ballet, is the most enchanting, intimate, and idyllic setting for boutique theatre.

The sun shone warmly through a magical roof of age-old trees as the small, highly skilled, intimate instrumental ensemble, housed in a quaint, picturesque rotunda, began with perfect balance and precision, transporting us to the mythical world of Arcadia

Nature was in full bloom, and the kookaburras and other birdlife added another dimension to the stunning sets and glorious costumes.

This whimsical, musical play joyfully rollicked along in three acts with two intervals, offering refreshments in little private nooks and crannies scattered throughout this rambling Aussie paradise.

The exceptional Bel Canto singing was a highlight, with special mention of Marisa Panzarin's gloriously mellow mezzo and Bridgette Kelsey's splendid bright coloratura.

I congratulate the exquisite quartet in Act One, singing The Joy of Life for excellent balance and such sublime timbre of voices.

The meticulous ensemble shone in Act Two at the races, and the duets sung by triple threats, Bruce Raggatt and Emily Crawford , were charmingly delightful.

The audience particularly enjoyed Melvyn Morrow's clever, witty, and humorous rewrite of the original play. The melodrama of Mrs Smith and the comic timing of Father Time had us all smiling and chuckling out loud.

I also must acknowledge the hats and umbrellas; they were outstanding, intricate, and most beautiful. Much praise goes to the costume designer and maker, Helen Ebsworthy I commend Robert Ray and Naomi Tooby on another marvellous GSOV production and wish you much success for the rest of the season.

This production can be seen until March 22 at various venues. For details and tickets, visit gsov.org.au or call 0490 465 009.

Review by Lucy Nicolson

Music of the Seasons

■ 3MBS returns to the Main Hall at Hawthorn Arts Centre with Music of the Seasons. This concert launches 3MBS’s 2026 Made in Melbourne series of live events, showcasing the best of Melbourne’s live music across classical and jazz.

Presented in collaboration with the City of Boroondara, Music of the Seasons celebrates the rhythms of nature through captivating classical performances by Collide Ensemble, pianist Coady Green, mezzosoprano Chloe James, soprano Katherine Norman and the Choir of Trinity College Melbourne, under the direction of Christopher Watson.

Event Details

Date and Time: 2pm Saturday March 28 (duration 100 minutes including interval)

Venue: Hawthorn Arts Centre, Main Hall, 360 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn VIC

Bookings: 3MBS website. Hawthorn Arts Centre website &

9278 4770

Observations

Midwinter Break

● ● Ciaran Hinds as Gerry and Lesley Manville as Stella

■ Midwinter Break is one of those thoughtful, delightful films that feature people no longer in the first flush of youth, in whom we see reflections of ourselves.

Going against the Hollywood stereotype of glossy airbrushed stars are fine British actors Lesley Manville as Stella and Ciaran Hinds as her husband Gerry

They are classic empty nesters, with one son and grandchildren living far away. In some ways they are chalk and cheese, as Stella is a committed Catholic whose faith is very precious to her, while Gerry is a sceptic who accepts his wife’s faith but also finds it a source of mild amusement.

Stella decides they are in a rut and need an adventure, so she plans a midwinter break in Amsterdam, and initially everything goes swimmingly. They both love the galleries, pubs and architecture and excitement of Amsterdam

But beneath the relaxed companionship of a long-married couple there are issues that fester, one of which is Gerry’s dependence on a wee dram or three. Stella also is unsettled, feeling she needs to do something more with her life that involves her faith.

What gradually unfolds is a past trauma that has laid buried but is now emerging to haunt them both. The fascination of the film is how this is revealed and the journey they must both go on, which is painful and emotional, and searingly honest.

Manville and Hinds are simply superb, and very easy to identify with for anyone who has been in a decades-long partnership.

It is a joy to see how they eventually resolve their trauma without a neat happy ever after ending. Their story ends in a real way with a sense of hope for their future. The other star of the film is Amsterdam itself – the photography is so good that the film doubles as an advertisement for visiting that fair city.

Midwinter Break is showing now at Cinema Nova, Palace Cinemas and Lido Hawthorn and Classic Elsternwick

Julie Houghton

Passion Play

■ This year's Melbourne Passion Play will be performed at the Catholic Regional College, 380 Sydenham Rd, Sydenham at 1.30pm on Palm Sunday, March 29, and at 10am on Good Friday, April 3 .

For the past 27 years, the Passion of Jesus Christ has been enacted by a group of volunteers in open air natural surroundings.

The Melbourne Passion Play re-enacts the journey of Jesus Christ's life - the triumphs, trIals, devotion and the betrayal. From His Baptism on the River Jordan to the Resurrection, the audience literally fellows in Christ's footsteps from scene to scene

Professionally produced and directed, the Melbourne Passion Play is free of charge, with free parking via Gate 5 in the CRC College car park or in the surrounding streets and in the nearby Watergarden Railway Station car park.

Event details: Sunday, March 29 at 1.30pm and Friday, April 3 at 10am

Venue: Catholic Regional College, 380 Sydenham Rd., Sydenham

Admission: Free event.

Cheryl Threadgold

Reg Livermore’s Ned Kelly

■ Victorian Opera presents its upcoming revival of an iconic work of Australian theatreReg Livermore’s Ned Kelly: The Musical, being presented on Saturday, March 28 at Her Majesty's Theatre, Ballarat

Following its original seasons in Adelaide and Sydney in the late 1970s, this landmark musical returns to the stage for the first time in 48 years, featuring a stellar cast of Australian musical-theatre performers.

Ned Kelly’s name is etched into Australian folklore. The infamous bushranger, his gang, and that unmistakable suit of armour continue to ignite a national debate: Was he a champion of the underdog or a cold-blooded criminal?

Victorian Opera’s Artistic Director Stuart Maunder (Follies,ThePiratesofPenzance,La Rondine) breathes fresh life into the work as director, joined by conductor Simon Holt (Cats,SweeneyTodd,SunsetBoulevard), who has contributed additional music and newly orchestrated this revised version of the score.

The creative team includes emerging designer Harry Gill, recipient of the 2026 Truscott Prize, who will design both set and costumes, Nicole Melloy (The Who’s Tommy) joins as choreographer, with Gavan Swift (Follies) as lighting designer and Samuel Moxham (The Pirates of Penzance) as sound designer.

Fresh from Back to the Future: The Musical, rising star Ethan Jones is Ned Kelly. He is joined by celebrated stage veterans Maria Mercedes (Candide) as Ma Kelly and Robert Grubb (SunsetBoulevard) as Superintendent Hare.

As members of the KellyGang, Jacob Steen (Follies) appears as Joe Byrne, alongside Darcy Wain and Luke London, recently in Victorian Opera’s The Pirates of Penzance, as

More Auditions

■ Peridot Theatre Company: Admissions (by Joshua Harmon) March 16, 18 at 7pm at Monash Theatrical Rehearsal & Resource Centre (formerly Fleigner Hall), Cnr. Highland and Turnbull Aves., Oakleigh East. Director: Alison Knight. Audition enquiries: alisonperidot@ gmail.com or 0437 380 533

■ Avid Theatre and The 1812 Theatre : Closer (by Patrick Marber) April 7 and 9, 6.30pm-9.30pm at 312 St Kilda Rd., Southbank. Callbacks April 14. Applications close 31 March. Director: Michael Fenemore. Audition booking: mavmetropolis@hotmail.com

■ Malvern Theatre Company: When the Rain Stops Falling. May 3, 4 at 7.30pm at Malvern Theatre, 29 Burke Road, Malvern East. Director: Peter Newling. Audition enquiries: peter.newling@\ gmail.com.

■ Melbourne French Theatre: Il était un petit navir (SOS), Save Our Savings (by Jean-Pierre Martinez) May 9 at 2pm, May 12 at 7pm at La Maison de Maître building, 203-205 Canning Street, Carlton. 7 actors required - 4 male/3 female. Director: Paul Wanis, Produced by Michel Bula. Fluent French-speaking actors only. melbournefrenchtheatre. org.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Steve Hart and Dan Kelly. Chelsea Dawson (Six) performs as Ned’s sister Kate. Rohan Campbell (TheLordoftheRings–AMusical Tale) makes his Victorian Opera debut as Aaron Sherritt, the friend-turned-informant whose betrayal shaped the Kelly story.

Sally Bourne (Sister Act) stars as publican Mrs Jones, and Kiran Rajasingam (ThePirates of Penzance) appears as Judge Redmond Barry, who famously sentenced Kelly to death.

Victorian Opera’s current and former Opera Prize winners join the supporting cast, including Douglas Kelly as Sergeant Fitzpatrick and Edwin Living, Rachael Joyce as Ellen Sherritt, Bailey Montgomerie as Constable McIntyre, and Alessia Pintabona in the ensemble.

The ensemble also features Teddy Burgess, Declan Farr, Hanlon Innocent, Kristina McNamara and Connor Sweeney

In a special cameo by the legend himself, Reg Livermore (Wicked, My Fair Lady, The Producers) returns to the world he created, appearing as Mr Tarleton, the Bank Manager.

On the season, Livermore notes: “Victorian Opera’s production of NedKelly:TheMusical this year is a labour of love for all concerned, as it surely was for those members of the original company when it premiered in Adelaide 48 years ago.'

Performance Date: March 28 at 2pm and 7.30pm

Venue: Her Majesty's Theatre, Ballarat. Bookings: victorianopera.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Twinkle Town

■ Miss Darbus presents the 20 year anniversary performance of: Twinkle Town: The Forgotten High School Musical from April 6-19 at the Motley Spielhaus, Melbourne.

After a rigorous and drama-filled audition process, this East High Winter Musicale Twinkle Town follows Minnie and Arnold as they Bop to the Top of the theatrical food chain while in rehearsals for an Off Off Off Broadway Show. But will their dreams of stardom really have them breaking free from their understudy status?

Featuring Dean Robinson and Isabella Patane , Twinkle Town: The Forgotten High School Musical includes songs from the hit Disney Channel Original Movie and shows the highs and lows of theatre life, dazzling costumes and maybe even features well known characters from the iconic film.

The show is described as being for 'Sharpays and Ryans alike.'

Dates: April 6-19

Times: 7.10pm

Running Time: 55 Mins

Venue: Motley Spielhaus - Berrbang Lane and Kulinbulok Lane, Melbourne

Content Warning: Mild Coarse Language and Mild Sexual References (12+ Recommended)

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Shows

■ Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria (GSOV) The Arcadians (by Gilbert and Sullivan) 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

■ Beaumaris Theatre: Chalkface (by Angela Betzian) Until March 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 ■ BottledSnail Productions: Urinetown, March 19 – 28 at Gasworks Arts Park, Albert Park. Bookings: gasworks.org.au/ whats-on/urinetown-the -musical/ Nova Music Theatre: The Sound of Music, March 20 – 29 at The Round, Nunawading. Bookings: novamusic theatre.com.au/

■ 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

■ Burwood Student Theatre Company: Macbeth (by William Shakespeare) April 9 – 11 at Vermont Secondary College, 2763 Morack Rd., Vermont. Director: Matthew Carcassi. Bookings: burwood studenttheatrecompany@gmail.com

■ Windmill Theatre Company: Frozen Jr April 6 – 19 at the Cranbourne Community Theare, Brunt St., Cranbourne. Bookings: Trybooking.

■ The 1812 Theatre: Summer of the Aliens (by Louis Nowra) April 9 – May 2 at The 1812 Theatre, Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Liam Mitchinson. Bookings: 1812theatre. com.au or 9758 3964.

■ Ballarat National Theatre: The Dog Logs (by C.J. Johnson) April 10 – 19 at the Ballarat Mechanics’ Institute, 117 Sturt St., Ballarat. Director: Gin O’Brien. Bookings: bnt.org.au

■ Frankston Theatre Group: The Cherry Orchard (by Anton Chekhov) April 10 –19 at Frankston High School Performing Arts Theatre, Foot St., Frankston. Director: Tim Gilmour. Bookings: Trybooking or 0437 117 881.

■ The Basin Theatre Group: Switzerland (by Joanna Murray-Smith) April 16 – 26 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Sharon Maine. Bookings: thebasin.sales.ticketsearch. com/sales/sales 0494 065 006 tickets@thebasintheatre.au

■ Encore Theatre Company: Gaslight (Written by Patrick Hamilton). April 24 –May 3 at the Clayton Theatrette, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: Kym Davies. Bookings: encoretheatre.com.au

■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Lovesong (by Abi Morgan) April 22 – May 9 at Williamstown Little Theatre, 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Vicki Smith. Bookings: wlt.org.au/book-tickets

Auditions

■ The Basin Theatre Group: 84 Charing Cross Road (by James Roose-Evans) March 14, 15 at 2pm, March 19 at 7.30pm at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Di Hoskins. Audition bookings: 0430 495 105 or email events@thebasintheatre.au

■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group: Kimberly Akimbo (by David Lindsay Abaire) March 14 at 1.00pm, March 17 at 7pm at the Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman St., Strathmore. Director: Drew Mason. Audition bookings: drew.mason@optusnet.com.au or 9382 6284

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: The Truth (by Florian Zeller) March 15 at 2pm, March 16 at 7pm at Unit 8/417-419 Warrigal Rd, Cheltenham. Director: George Werther. Audition enquiries: werther110@gmail.com

Cheryl Threadgold

Ovation tour Entertainment Extra

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

● ● Westgate Highway Patrol officers are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal collision in Wyndham Vale on Monday afternoon (Mar. 9). Emergency services responded after a motorcycle and car collided at the intersection of Greens and Armstrong Rdds about 3.30pm. The male rider died at the scene. The driver of the car was taken to hospital with injuries.

■ 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. 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

Rourke’s Reviews

Cold Storage

■ (M). 99 minutes. Opens in cinemas March 12.

Surprisingly fun, old-school viral comedy/thriller contains not one, but two pairings where the chemistry works extremely well.

Australians over a certain age will remember when the Skylab space station crashed near Esperance in Western Australia in 1979 (the possible location of impact kept us riveted), and David Koepp’s knowing screenplay, based on his novel, uses this real-life event to build a story involving a virulent green fungus, which aggressively looks for hosts to ‘possess’.

From its first encounter with NASA agents ( Liam Neeson and Lesley Manville) to a years-later crisis witnessed by storage facility employees Travis and Naomi ( Joe Keery and Georgina Campbell ), this dangerous fungus won’t stop until it has infected everything.

Director Jonny Campbell keeps things moving, and nicely blends humour and horror.

Best of all, both pairings hit the bullseye. It’s not often you want two duos to return to the screen sometime in the future, but that is certainly the case here. Would make a great double bill with James Gunn’s Slither

RATING - ***½

Goat

■ (PG). 100 minutes. Opens in cinemas March 12.

Zootopia meets Major League in this innocuous but imminently forgettable, totally predictable animated film.

A typical underdog sports story, the early scenes of Will (Caleb McLaughlin) idolising his favourite player, Jett (Gabrielle Union) , are actually unnervingly similar to that of the satirical horror/ comedy Him, and there are mixed messages throughout about what sportsmanship is supposed to mean.

The animation has a nice, painterly style, but this is generic stuff.

RATING - **

The Plague

■ (MA). 103 minutes. Opens in selected cinemas March 12.

Using sport to achieve a very different result, this debut film from Charlie Polinger is a suffocating, harrowing experience.

The swimming pool utilised as a metaphorical primordial pond for what happens within a group of teenage boys on water polo camp is brilliant. Polinger’s potent script examines a multitude of themes, from toxic masculinity, male entitlement from a young age, conformity, and aggression or denigration against women and gays, while the so-called ‘plague’ itself is also very symbolic, examining stress, mental health, abuse and bullying.

The cast are outstanding, particularly Everett Blunck, Kenny Rasmussen and Kayo Martin

RATING - ****½

Anemone

■ (M). 125 minutes. Opens in selected cinemas March 12.

Beautifully shot, with a searing performance from Daniel Day-Lewis (in his first film since Phantom Thread in 2017), this overtly grim drama is frustratingly heavy-handed and overlong.

Sean Bean plays Jem , a deeply religious man, married to Nessa (Samantha Morton), who has a teenage son Brian (Samuel Bottomley) In order to help a very distressed Brian, Jem heads off into the forest to see his long estranged brother, Ray (Daniel Day-Lewis) , an intimidating, deeply scarred individual still dealing with dark memories, especially those when he was a soldier during the Troubles. ‘ Debutant co-writer/director Ronan Day-Lewis initially succeeds with a stark, striking mood, but it slowly dissipates as characters are kept thin, particularly supporting ones. Protracting the material leads to repetition, and despite the committed efforts of its talented cast, the whole endeavour ends up feeling hollow. Day-Lewis the actor is by far the film’s biggest asset.

RATING - *

■ (PG). 89 minutes. Opens in cinemas March 12. If Goat feels overly generic, this French animated film from Ugo Bienvenu is completely engaging and charming, championing diversity and freedom of expression in a much more intelligent manner, using the colours of the rainbow to symbolise a positive, humane point. Centring on two child characters who live in different time periods, this feels Influenced by the films of Hayao Miyazaki, but certainly has an identity of its own.

RATING - **** Aaron Rourke

■ The Cisco Kid was a fictional character created in a short story by famous author O. Henry in 1907.

He was a Mexican caballero who rode the ‘wild west’ solving crimes and capturing ‘the bad guys’ with the assistance of his faithful companion Pancho

The Cisco Kid was portrayed in the films by many actors over the years, William R. Dunne, Warner Baxter, Chris-Pin Martin, Gilbert Roland and Cesar Romero .

The last Cisco Kid on the silver screen was Duncan Renaldo and he became the star of the television series which ran from 1950 till 1956 and it was the first television series to be filmed in colour.

The series was on GTV9 at 7pm in the late 50s .

Renault Renaldo Duncan was born in Spain in 1904, he became an orphan and never knew his parents.

He immigrated to America in the 1920s and worked initially as a portrait painter before getting a job acting in the film The Devil’sSkipper in 1928 using his new name, Duncan Renaldo

As the years went by Duncan got some good acting roles in films such as Spawn of the North, Down Mexico Way and For Whom the Bell Tolls.

In 1945 he landed the role that was to change his life when he played the lead in The Return of the Cisco Kid

It was the television series that gave him international fame.

Whatever Happened to ... The Cisco Kid

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

He used the catch phrase “Ohhh Ceesco,” to which Duncan would reply “Oh Pancho ” - they were a great team.

Leopoldo Antonio Carrillo was born in 1881 in San Diego so he was actually 23 years older than Duncan

He was almost 70 when the television series started production. Leo was a university graduate and worked as a cartoonist for the San Francisco Examiner before becoming an actor.

He had a good career as a supporting actor in films throughout his lifetime.

Leo Carrillo made a great contribution to civic committees and was an active con-

The Cisco Kid rarely killed anyone and he rode his faithful horse Diablo. Leo Carrillo was cast as Pancho in the films and also made the transition into the television series.

servationist. After his death in 1961 a park and a school were named in his honour.

He gave us a lot of laughs in The Cisco Kid and his horse was named Loco Duncan Renaldo retired from acting in the late 1950s and passed away from lung cancer in a Californian hospital in 1980.

The last Cisco Kid film was made as a telemovie in 1994 and it starred Jimmy Smits as the Cisco Kid and as Pancho I guess you may have fond memories of watching the old television series with the two caballeros riding across the dusty

Remember WhenSundays 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

QUEER SELF PORTRAITURE AT KINGSTON ARTS

Theatre Extra

Taming of the Shrew

■ The Melbourne Shakespeare Company may have just inadvertently resolved one of the greatest dilemmas associated with The Taming of the Shrew

In its al fresco production in Malvern Central Park, director Emma Austin allows the audience to choose the gender of the two main protagonists, Petruchio and Katerina

Ostensibly, Petruchio ‘tames’ the fiery Katerina which doesn’t necessarily sit well with a contemporary audience versed in notions of gender equality.

But Shakespeare was doing more. He was challenging the conventions of the day. Tranio the servant (Imogen Rabbitte ), for example, changes places with the courtier, Lucentio (Charlie Morris). The social class distinctions have been upended which includes marriage and duty as well.

This upheaval is also in the verve and vigour of the company’s approach which lampoons social etiquette. The cast have endless fun toying with propriety which is mirrored in their send up of the acting profession and the behaviour of actors even before the show proper commences.

The egos of actors are exposed and they are a rambunctious lot. Even the two dimensional set (Leah Downey) is made fun of – a cardboard cut out is used as a stool.

Music also plays a key role with the interpolation of contemporary song ( Natalie Calia) professionally executed with the requisite harmonies. All this points to a disruption of the norms where acting is concerned, in just how revered Shakespeare’s lines should be delivered, and within the society the play ultimately mocks.

On the night this reviewer attended, a warm zephyr was blowing and Petruchio (JP Vizcay-Wilson) becomes a co-conspirator with Katerina (Kian Pitman) in subverting expectation.

The gender bending actually complements Shakespeare’s intent of upending what is customary but is actually not required. What remains extant is the comedy and the community spirit where Malvern replaces Padua and Camberwell substitutes for Verona. A fun night was had by all.

Performance Season: Until March 15

Venue: Central Park, Malvern

Bookings: melbourneshakespeare.com/the-taming-of-the-shrew Review by David McLean

Inquiry into the ABC?

■ The Federal Government must establish an urgent independent inquiry into the ABC’s impartiality failures following its deeply offensive, one-sided coverage of the Iran war, says Senator Sarah Henderson.

“The ABC’s statutory obligation to disseminate news and information impartially and accurately is critical to public trust in the national broadcaster. Senior America’s reporter, John Lyons , has shockingly failed that test,” Senator Henderson said.

In response to a government statement that "Australia stands with the brave people of Iran in their struggle against oppression,” Mr Lyons labelled this as ‘political propaganda’ claiming if the Prime Minister was telling the truth, he should have said 'Australia stands with Israel and the US in their new war on Iran’.

“This is a disgraceful distortion of the facts, given Iran’s brutal regime has massacred many thousands of its own citizens, backed terror proxies to menace democracies around the world and sponsored terror attacks on Australian soil,” Senator Henderson said.

Diva Worship – Hannah Bronte

Come worship at the altar of kivas. A photographic collaboration with queer femmes and the sun. Harmonising the channel of cyanotype as both ritual and process, the work explores the act of queer self-portraiture as a radical practice of self0examination and embodied power, honouring the sacred Queer Femme.

The Skybridge , next to Town Hall each night Queer femmes are an essential part of the ecosystem that sustains our community in their diversity, strength, m and fluidity, they embody the reliance of those who move through the world with quiet yet powerful grace.

These femmes, neither seen or unseen, hold the layers of both defiance and tenderness that make them extraordinary forces of nature.

Exhibition opens March 20 and closes May 16.

★

My Elder Sister - Abhijit Pal

An exhibition of embroidery on photographs, capturing children imagination, memory, and storytelling through Kantha -inspired stitching.

My Elder Sister is an ongoing series of embodied photographs, revisiting fragments of childhood when imagination unfolded without boundaries.

“At six, my cousin-sister, four years older, we invented entire worlds without toys or costumes – becoming doctors, teachers, princes. Ad princesses, borrowing gestures from everyday life and stories from books,” said Abhijit

The house where these games once blossomed now stands abandoned, slowly claimed by nature. On these photographs, embroidered dialogues emerge like whispers, stitching together the vitality of those imagined worlds with what feels absent today –unstructed screen-free, screenfree spaces, where storytelling once thrived.

Exhibition closesMarch14. Kingston Arts 979 Nepean Hwy, Moorabbin

MAPh

Coded Blooms – flowers have never been innocent.

Flowers have long stood for what could not be spoken aloud: sex, death, longing, defiance. Soft in appearance yet potent in meaning, they are among art history’s great deceivers.

Across centuries and cultures, the bloom has functioned a a visual code, a form artists have e returned to, reclaimed and rewritten to speak about desire. Power and taboo.

Code Blooms begins with the American photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, whose flower photographs form the exhibition’s conceptual anchor.

Drawn from the collection of the National Gallery of Australia, these works establish a charged framework for contemporary reading of the floral. In Mapplethorpe’s hands. The bloom becomes sculptural, erotic and exacting, stripped of sentiment and sharpened into form. Exhibition closes May 24.

is an annual celebration of emerging photo-media artists selected from a large pool of entries. 2026 marks the 18th Anniversary of this award exhibition, which showcases exceptional photographic work produced by students who have completed the Victorian Certificate of Education.

Subjects of Art, Making and Exhibition, Art Creative Practice and Media, as well as the emotional Baccalaureate subject of Visual Arts and the Vocational Education and Training subject of Visual Arts.

Exhibition closes May 6.

MAPh

661 Ferntree Gully Rd, Wheelers Hill

Mornington

The True Artist Helps the World by Revealing Mystic Truths – Bruce Nauman is a conceptual artwork that invites conversation on contemporary art, and the role of the artist.

It is one of the first neon sign installations by pioneering American artist Bruce Nauman , who has worked for over six decades across painting, sculpture, video, performance, and print. Installed at the heart of the Gallery, Nauman’s glowing spiral neon guides curatorial vision for the next two years.

“We will: support artists and their revealing of ‘mystic truths’ encourage our audiences to find their own meaning in contemporary art question what the role of art in today’s world is take risks, play and experiment - and whether to keep a sense of humour.”

Exhibition opens March 28 and closes March 27, 2027.

Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery Civic Reserve, Dunns Rd, Mornington Peter Kemp

Places To Go

Travel Briefs

New cubs at Melbourne Zoo

■ Melbourne Zoo has welcomed four adorable Snow Leopard cubs, born to mum Miska and dad Kang Ju, the first Snow Leopard births at the zoo since 2020.

Arriving in the early hours of January 15, the fuzzy newcomers wasted no time showing their personalities, playfully tumbling around their den while staying close to mum.

With Snow Leopards typically having just two or three cubs, welcoming four healthy cubs is a rare and exciting milestone.

Miska has taken beautifully to motherhood, raising her cubs solo as Snow Leopards naturally do in the wild.

Big growth

■ Wildlife encounters aw a surge among Aussies in 2025, with aquarium and zoo experiences up 78.6 per cent. The Gold Coast topped Big Red Group’s destination hotlist for 2025, closely followed by Melbourne (up from 4th place in 2024) and Sydney for city-based experiences.

■ Visitor data released by Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) reveals a new record for Australian travellers, with 1,058,300 visiting Japan during the 2025 calendar year.

2025 is the first year that Australian visitors to Japan have broken the one million mark, a 15 per cent increase on 2024.

Some 121,300 visitors flocked to the country during December 2025, coinciding with school holidays, festive breaks and the start of the popular ski season.

The month of January saw the highest number of Australian visitors throughout the year with 140,185 visitors, and 115,235 Australians arriving in April during cherry blossom season which aligned with school holidays and the 2025 Easter long weekend.

JNTO also noted growth in Australians travelling outside the peak seasons of April and the December to February ski season, with the months of September and October also seeing significant arrivals during 2025.

Students save

■ Emirates is making it easier for students to travel. Students aged between 16 to 31 can fly further for less and work towards their study abroad goals with up to 15 per cent off Economy Class fares when booking before March 31 for travel on or before May 31.

Wonders

■ Specialist solo tour operator

Just You has launched its first Europe program for Australian solo travellers.

The 2027 program has been launched four months earlier than previous years in response to guest and travel agent feedback, including from new market Australia which traditionally requires longer lead times for longhaul travel.

Just You has launched a new Greece and Turkey itinerary, with departures from September through to September 2027.

Priced from A$9149, the 16-day ‘Wonders of the Aegean’ tour takes solo travellers on a journey through history from Athens’ Acropolis, the Sacred Way at Delphi and the island of Samos to ancient Ephesus

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2026

Bush Telegraph Whiparound

From plant waste

■ A research hub at the University of Queensland is taking a unique approach to converting plant waste into carbon-based compounds like jet fuel.

Director of the ARC Research Hub for Engineering Plants to Replace Fossil Carbon, Associate Professor Karine Chenu, said the team would focus on creating better inputs for processing.

“Most of the research investment in this space has shown that processing plant biomass into aviation biofuels or other bioproducts is technically viable and should be done,” Dr Chenu said.

Citrus concerns

■ The citrus industry is facing growing concerns about the lack of a high quality import risk assessment of the citrus fruit pomelo.

Nationals leader David Littleproud said it was clear independent scientific experts were needed, amid growing concerns intothe Federal Government’s decision to import pomelo from Vietnam into Australia, just weeks after the Australian Banana Growers’ Council raised concerns about the assessment process of potential banana imports from the Philippines. Mr Littleproud said Australia urgently needs to know if Labor is sacrificing high biosecurity standards and why a Scientific Advisory Group hasn’t been brought in, despite recommendations to do so.

POLITICAL PARTIES MUST STEP UP: VFF

■ With eight months to go until Victorians go to the polls, the Victorian Farmers Federation is reminding all potential candidates to consider the enormous role rural communities play.

“Victorian farms are the most productive in our nation, nearly eight times more productive than the national average,” said VFF President Brett Hosking

“We contribute $20b to the local economy and indirectly employ more than 150,000 people. Imagine what that could become with some forward thinking and investment in the right places,”

“Removing the Emergency Services Volunteer Fund, development that puts food and fibre production first, restoring our roads and freight networks, tackling rural crime and ensuring our communities and families have access to services to help them succeed are great places to start.”

“The introduction of the Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund was devastating for our farmers. This is a huge cash-grab imposed on farming businesses and it will amount to tens of thousands of dollars stripped from farmers and communities. We must see it scrapped. In every corner of Victoria, the state of the roads, concerns regarding new mines and energy infrastructure and spiralling onfarm crime, including the theft of livestock and equipment and even farm invasions are huge issues.”

Summer damage

■ The latest farm property claims data from Elders Insurance reveals storm-related damage cost Australian farmers $92.14 million in 2024, almost double the previous year.

Summer remains the riskiest season, accounting for over 40 per cent of claims in the past 12 months (Dec. 1, 2024 – Nov. 24, 2025).

Critical infrastructure such as sheds, fencing, and solar panels are most vulnerable. While NSW and Queensland are hardest hit, the impact is national – and the financial and operational fallout for farmers is significant.

Hard year for sheep

■ “It has been a difficult year for many in the industry, especially those producers affected by drought,” said Dr Scott Williams , Chair of the Sheep Sustainability Framework Steering Group.

“Subdued prices for wool have contributed to a reduction in the national sheep flock, and many in the postfarmgate sector are increasingly concerned about future supply.”

The SSF itself has undergone important changes, including a revision of its materiality assessment and the strengthening of its governance and technical expertise, Dr Williams said, on the release of the 2025 annual report.

Beef Industry Latest Wagyu

marbling

■ Researchers from the University of Adelaide’s Davies Livestock Research Centre have described the most complete cattle genome yet, in a study that will lead to improvements in Wagyu breeding and result in better beef marbling.

“We have presented a near complete cattle genome that is 16 per cent longer than the current reference genome,” said Dr Lloyd Low, from the Centre and senior author of the study published in NatureCommunications

“This new Wagyu genome provides a much more complete and accurate view of the genetic blueprint behind one of the world’s most prized beef breeds,” said study co-lead author Paulene Pineda, from the University of Adelaide

Dr Low’s discovery will have implications for profits in the beef industry.

“The Wagyu genome provides a foundational genetic resource to identify variants responsible for marbling and other traits affecting profit,” said Professor Wayne Pitchford, Director of the University of Adelaide’s Davies Livestock Research Centre and a co-author of the study.

The new cattle genome was able to be used to identify hundreds of new genes and detect more structural variants than was possible with the existing reference genome.

“These structural variants are an untapped genetic resource and some of them may be key to some of the prized traits of cattle. Moreover, they highlight the hidden diversity present within a seemingly homogeneous breed,” said Dr Callum MacPhillamy, a co-lead author of the study from CSIRO.

Associate Professor Cynthia Bottema, a co-author of the study also from the Centre, said the advancement will have implications beyond Wagyu

“Our new cattle genome means breeders now have a better tool that will allow for greater precision when identifying and selecting for traits like marbling, fertility and disease resistance – not only in Wagyu, but other cattle breeds as well,” she said.

Australian beef production totalled 706,296 tonnes for the quarter to June 2025.

Victorian Rural News

Cracking growth for almonds

■ Australia’s almond sector is entering a new era, as it begins large-scale orchard replanting to enable future growth and satisfy increasing local and global appetite for the popular nut, Rabobank says in a newly-released report.

In its Australian Almond Outlook: Replanting for growth beyond 2030, the specialist agribusiness bank’s RaboResearch division says the Australian almond industry is “entering a pivotal transition phase”, with renewal of ageing orchards and expansion into new areas.

“The next five years will begin the first large-scale replanting cycle that (along with expansion into new regions) sets the foundation for long-term growth in the Australian almond industry,” the report says.

This could see total planted area of almonds in Australia lift by between 5000 and 10,000 hectares (the equivalent of seven to 15 per cent growth in total area) by 2030, it says.

Meanwhile, positive global demand for almonds – coupled with limited production growth in California , the world’s largest almond producer and Australia’s main export competitor – should contribute to an improving market outlook, RaboResearch says, “offering opportunities for the Australian industry to grow its share of the global market”.

Report author, RaboResearch analyst Pia Piggott says the next five years will see the first large-scale replanting occur in Australia’s burgeoning almond industry, with many of the sector’s first-established 10,000 hectares of almond trees planted between 2001 to 2005 reaching the end of their productive life between now and 2030.

“This represents approximately 16 per cent of the total area of Australian almonds in 2024, which will require replanting over the next five years,” she said.

On top of this, some of an additional 13,000 hectares of almond trees planted between 2006 and 2010 are also expected to need replanting in the coming five years as the productivity of older plants declines.

Trust for Nature

■ Two-thirds of Victoria’s landscape is privately owned, and these properties are home to some of the most threatened species and irreplaceable native vegetation, says Trust For Nature.

“This private land is the land that Trust for Nature has unique powers to protect through permanent conservation covenants. Working with landholders, we can protect vital habitat forever – even if the property is sold.

“Last financial year, we protected 2706 hectares of habitat on private land forever, bringing total land protected to over 119,000 ha.

“We safeguarded the equivalent of 1353 MCG’s.”

Mungbean yields up

■ New breeding opportunities for an important cash crop have been unlocked by University of Queensland and Grains Research and Development Corporation-supported research.

Queensland Alliance of Agriculture and Food Innovation PhD candidate Caitlin Dudley, supported by a GRDC Research Scholarship has revealed key insights about mungbean flowering through extensive field trials.

“Our research found that when mungbean flowers, and how long it flowers, are independent traits with distinct genetic controls,” Ms Dudley said.

Longer droughts

■ A study tracking not only the forces that drive drought but the damage it leaves behind has revealed that droughts have lasted longer in Australia in recent decades, especially in areas with the most people and farms.

UNSW researchers analysed drought trends across Australia between 1911 and 2020 based on rainfall shortages and falling river and dam levels.

Their analysis showed that, since 1971, the time spent under drought conditions has increased across most of Australia, especially in the southeast and southwest.

Places To Go

Places To Go

Places To Go

Places To Go

Plenty of social activities & events to enjoy with friends & family

When you visit Kensington Gardens Shepparton, you’ll immediately notice the strong sense of community. With almost 80% of our 300 house lots already built, our houses are situated on wide streets, that help to give you the impression that you aren’t in a retirement village at all. In fact, you’ll find our lifestyle village feels just like a normal suburb anywhere in Australia – except that the lawns and gardens are maintained so much better! At Kensington Gardens Shepparton we’re often told “nothing else compares”. And when you visit us, you’ll see why.

Enjoy the luxury clubhouse with cinema, bar, pool, gym, library, craft room, residents shed & more

Have the FREEDOM to travel knowing your home is cared for

Secure lockup RV / Caravan parking including washbay

Hassle-free, comfortable and secure living all year round

Multiple exit fee options available

Enjoy freedom of doing as much or as little as you like

Get in early to secure one of the remaining lots!

Senior Service Senior Moments

Home care for oldies

■ Ageing Australia has made a series of recommendations ahead of the Federal Budget to build a sustainable and investable aged care sector.

“Action is needed now, with the number of Australians aged over 70 set to hit 2.3 million by 2044,” Ageing Australia CEO Tom Symondson said.

“The most immediate step the Government can take to relieve pressure on the aged care system is to increase the number of Support at Home packages.

“At last count, more than 100,000 older Australians were waiting for a package and another 100,000 waiting just to be assessed, so the issue is fast approaching a national emergency.”

Difficult to trust

■ Australians over 50 are navigating a treacherous digital landscape, with a new report revealing an alarming prevalence of scams and a sharp decline in trust in information.

Over four in five (84 per cent) have encountered or been victims of a scam, while a similar proportion (83 per cent) find it harder to trust news and information than just one to two years ago.

Seven in 10 (71 per cent) admit they still assume online content is real without checking at least sometimes, and only one in seven (15 per cent) fact-check information or news before believing or sharing it.

PASSIVE HOUSE IN RETIREMENT VILLAGE

■ Keyton, a retirement living operator-developer has showcased Australia’s first Passive House.

“The Passive House at The Grove is the first of its kind in an Australian retirement village,” said Keyton Chief Executive Officer Nathan Cockerill

Practical benefits include cleaner air, consistent indoor temperatures and reduced energy use.

“These are features that can meaningfully improve how older Australians live, and we’re exploring how elements of this design can be applied in future developments,” Mr Cockerill said.

Built as part of Keyton’s sustainability and wellbeing focused approach, the Passive House incorporates airtight construction, high performance insulation, triple glazing and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, Mr Cockerill said.

Paint with friends

■ Armstrong Creek retirees are picking up a paintbrush for the first time and exploring their artistic side with resident-led art classes.

Residents at Bolton Clarke’s Armstrong Green retirement village have been meeting every Monday evening to learn from their neighbour and artist Trish Keane

Having dabbled in drawing, Trish says she took up a paintbrush after retiring and is now enjoying sharing her expertise to help others find their own artistic style.

“Some of the residents here were saying they wanted to start painting and so I thought why not start some lessons – I’m no teacher but I can help,” Trish said.

“Almost all the residents were starting from scratch and didn’t know anything about painting.

“I have only been painting since I retired about 11 years ago now - it was something I wanted to do, so I started going to an artist in Melbourne to learn and get started.

“The first oil painting I have ever done was of my daughter and from then on, I have loved working with oil paints.”

Meaningful lives

■ How to Dress for Old Age is a work of love and reckoning showcasing two of Australia’s finest writers, Peta Murray and David Carlin, who take up the care for their ageing parents while contemplating their own “third age”.

BORONIA HOUSE OPENING 2026

Havilah is expanding its services with a new 24 – bed aged care facility, complementing its existing facility located in Maryborough, Central Victoria, under an hour’s drive from Ballarat and Bendigo.

Located adjacent to the current Havilah building in Burns Street, this new extension is designed for seamless integration, ensuring continuity of care and enhance convenience for residents. Havilah provides modern, comfortable living spaces with each resident enjoying a private ensuite. The facility offers a peaceful and welcoming environment for residents and their families.

Havilah is a not-for-profit organisation, operated by a Board of Management, involving members of our community.

ARE YOU CONSIDERING A HOME IN A LAND-LEASED VILLAGE?

MHOA Victoria can assist you.

The Manufactured Homeowners Association (Vic) (MHOA Vic.) is a non-profit, incorporated, volunteer staffed association, assisting owners of manufactured homes in Victorian land-lease villages and in mixed villages. MHOA provides its members with advice and information on matters pertaining to Part 4A of the Residential Tenancies Act, 1997, and assists members when problems arise between homeowners and the owners of the land.

The MHOA Committee have the lived experience of home ownership in land-lease villages and have a vast knowledge of the Act which governs this form of housing.

We have created our own website, www.mhoavic.com, with a wealth of information, a Victorian map showing all land-lease villages that we have discovered, with street address, the owner’s details, the number of homes and the estimated number of residents. Also on our website, is our agenda for getting legislation changes made, and a group of Information Sheets covering the phases of:

• Buying (Manufactured Homes in Land-Lease Villages, Site Agreements & Legislation, Prohibited Terms, Condition Reports and Exit Fees)

• Living (Rights & Obligations, Village Rules, Dispute Resolution, Rental Fees and Annual Increases, Utilities & Other Charges, ResidentCommittees, Maintenance Responsibilities and Preparation for a VCAT Hearing)

• Selling (Selling a Part 4A dwelling and Closure of a Part 4A Village)

ARE YOU THINKING OF MOVING INTO A LAND-LEASE VILLAGE IN VICTORIA, OR YOU ARE ALREADY LIVING IN ONE?

MHOA Vic can assist you.

The MHOA Vic committee members are all residents living in land-lease villages and due to their lived experience, and their knowledge of the Residential Tenancies Act for Part 4A villages, a free information booklet has been produced.

The booklet explains most things you need to know about buying,living and selling in land lease villages.

It also provides a list of questions to ask in order for you to make informed decisions and also explainsthe challenges that may arise when you are living in a land-lease village.

Our booklet covers the various aspects of buying into a village, and then living in one.

• Site Agreements including Exit Fees, Legislation.

• Living in a village, including rules, rights and obligations of residents and site owners, dispute resolution, rental fees with their associated annual increases, utilities and other charges.

• Resident Committees, maintenance responsibilities.

A Victorian map showing all land lease villages along with a wealth of other information can be found on our new website, www.mhoavic.com

To obtain a copy of our free MHOA Vic Information Booklet, please contact us via one of the various access methods shown below:

In The Pink

Managing meds

■ Researchers at Monash University and Flinders University have released a new guide on how to establish and lead a Quality Improvement Collaborative to support senior healthcare professionals, managers and leaders across healthcare settings who are seeking to improve medication management practices.

A QIC uses an evidenced based approach to bring healthcare professionals together from different sites to learn, share and implement best practice in a measurable and sustainable way. QICs have successfully been used in a range of different fields and settings to improve the quality of healthcare.

“Quality improvement strengthens health systems to deliver high quality person-centred care, improve processes for staff and implement evidence into practice,” said a Monash University representative.

Drugs-violence link

■ The Citizens Commission on Human Rights has launched the global release of Prescription for Violence – Psychiatry’s Deadly Side Effects, a two-hour documentary presenting extensive evidence correlating violent crimes, including domestic multiple shootings and suicides, to the widespread use of psychiatric drugs.

CCHR organisations worldwide say the documentary underscores the urgent need for mandatory toxicology screening in violent crime investigations, and for the creation of a public database documenting psychiatric drugs identified in such cases.

Running on empty

■ Several health services remain on financial life support under the State Government, according to the Opposition Opposition Leader Jess Wilson saidf:

“Internal Department of Health data has revealed several Victorian health services are operating with limited available cash holdings – that is, money available to pay operating costs such as staff wages, invoices and utility bills - as of December 2025, including:

■ Corryong Health - $0

■ West Wimmera Health - $0

■ Hesse Rural Health - $500,000

■ Omeo District Health - $600,000

■ Beechworth Health Service - $700,000

■ Mansfield District Hospital - $1 million

■ Kerang District Health - $1 million

“Under Labor, Victoria’s health services suffered a more than $1 billion combined deficit in 2023-24, as key financial indicators – including days available cash – were stripped from recent annual reports,” said Ms Wilson.

Indigenous plants

■ New research suggests an Australian desert plant could help food manufacturers improve protein quality and reduce reliance on added salt in staple foods.

The drought-tolerant shrub affectionately known as Old Man Saltbush is mostly used as stock fodder, but can also be added to salads or cooking and has been used as bush tucker by Indigenous Australians for thousands of years.

Now, early research suggests it could be a healthy and sustainable alternative. The study by RMIT University food scientists analysed the physical and chemical properties of saltbush to understand how it could be used as a functional food ingredient.

Camel milk praised

■ Camel milk is emerging as a nutrient-rich alternative dairy product in Australia, attracting growing interest from nutrition researchers and consumers seeking options for digestive sensitivities. Camel milk differs significantly from cow’s milk in its protein structure, fat composition and naturally occurring bioactive compounds.

WEDNEDAY, MARCH 4, 2026

14% SET TO DITCH HEALTH INSURANCE

■ Some 14 per cent of health insurance group members are set to ditch their cover as costs are set to rise by 4.41 per cent on April 1

Federal Health Minister Mark Butler has approved the increase of 4.41 per cent, which is set to be the biggest increase in almost a decade.

“The increase is well above inflation, which was 3.8 per cent in December, and will impact the 15.3 million Australians who pay for private health insurance,” said a representative of FInder researtch group.

This comes as more than two million Australians are turning their backs on private health cover in 2026, according to new research.

Of those who have private health insurance.” 26 per cent ranked it as one of their top three most stressful bills in January, according to Finder's Consumer Sentiment Tracker.

This number is on the rise. In January 2023, just 21 per cent of health insurance holders counted their premium as one of their most stressful expenses.

Changes

These changes come as 14 per cent of Australians – equivalent to 2.1 million people – say they won’t be renewing their private health insurance this year.

On average, Australians with health insurance now pay $238 per month for their coverage, according to Finder research.

Based on this average, an increase of 4.41 per cent would see an increase of $126 per year.

Sarah Megginson, personal finance expert at Finder, said: “Premium increases will sting for households already struggling to keep up with rising costs, and many no longer see health insurance as a must-have expense.

“Before you make any decisions, review your policy and check whether you’re paying for cover you don’t actually use. Downgrading extras, increasing your excess or switching tiers could lower your premium without scrapping cover altogether.

Better deals

“Insurers price risk differently, so you could be overpaying for the same level of protection – and new customers often score better deals, including weeks free or cash for switching.

“If you can afford it, paying annually before the hike kicks in may lock in the current rate.

“Also, splitting your hospital and extras cover across two insurers can be a great way to save.

“While some Australians are gambling they won’t need hospital treatment this year, one unexpected accident or diagnosis can become very expensive very quickly.

“Dropping cover can also mean tax penalties, reset waiting periods and higher costs to rejoin later. Before cancelling, compare your options – a few minutes of research could save you far more in the long run,” Ms Megginson said.

Nurses overlooked

■ Mental health nurses make up nearly half of the global mental health workforce, yet they remain overlooked as central leaders in mental health reform.

An RMIT expert argues the need to recognise and uplift mental health nurses and systems under growing global pressure.

Professor Rhonda Wilson, Mental Health Nursing, said: “Mental health nurses are the largest proportion of the mental health workforce, yet remain under-recognised in policy, funding and reform.

"Escalating mental health needs, workforce burnout, climate-related trauma and geopolitical instability have exposed fragile systems worldwide.

“"If we are serious about improving mental health outcomes, specialist mental health nursing leadership must be embedded at every level of the system.”

The Pulse

Based on evidence

■ The Royal Australian College of GPs has called on the Federal Government to establish an independent pricing authority to ensure Medicare rebates accurately reflect the true cost of delivering care.

RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said the College’s pre-budget submission highlights the need for an independent body to ensure rebates are backed by Australia’s healthcare data and free of partisan political intervention/influence.

“For decades, patients’ Medicare rebates have failed to keep pace with inflation and rising operational costs, driving up out-ofpocket expenses and creating barriers to access,” Dr Wright said.

“GPs work at the centre of multidisciplinary teams, but for this to function properly, general practice must be funded sustainably.

“Instead, governments on both sides of politics have set rebates based on shortterm political imperatives rather than from a sound evidence base. The cost of delivering primary care is undervalued – even simple care is underfunded, and complex care even more so.”

Liver disease

■ Researchers from the Centenary Institute have developed a new diagnostic tool, the FAP-Index, that could significantly improve how doctors identify people at risk of serious liver damage caused by metabolic fatty liver disease. The condition affects around one in three Australians.

Heidelberg

Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings

Wednesday, March 11

Abdullah, Mohamad Ali Ahmed, Omar Mohamud Alves, Debora Ariyathurai, Rajiv Jegatheesan Barney, Sonniya Bleasel, Talei Buday, Burak Claridge, Fiona Connellan, Ryan Crispin, Hayley Di Medio, Lisa Dooley, Brendan Dowling, Larry Charles Drommel, Troy Anthony Edwards-Marks, Tyler Eltigani, Ramah Taya Evans, Nicholas Stephen Farzi, Morteza Fox-Mcmahon, Kayla Genoli, Jason Gervasi, Salvatore Giourtis, Costa Green, Marley Greige, George Anthony Grewal, Simranjeet Harrison, Grant Henderson, Matthew Ilda Rigby, Catherine Ilsley, Nathan Kerr, Margeret Khodr, Abdalhadi Kunal Lu, Pin Mahat, Salih Mammone, Andrew Mark, Jacinda Mcmanus, Simon Allistair Milan, Helen Morgan, James Nguyen, Vu Uy

O'donnell, Julian Gerard Podolak, Jobe Portillo, Juanjose Prior, Nicole Quinn, Stuart Rashid, Muneeb Rawiri, Clara Jean Reghunath, Kailas Rossi, Salvatore Saunders, Margaret Sharma, Nidhi Smith, Cooper Smith, Zoe Anne Taya Eltigani, Ramah Taylor, David Tivanis, Chris Toull, Lisa Tsaousis, George Velevski, Steven Wanakore, Wesley Weaver, Jason Paul Whyte, Paul Robert Wilczewski, Karina Zidarich, Luke

Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, March 11 Ahmad, Thaier Al Hariri, Saad Albahrani, Muhammad Ali, Shahid Altunbas, Recep Hasan Al-Wazni, Taghreed Suhail Amarah Building And Design Pty Ltd

Amarant, James Assaad, Mohammad Ayouz, Adward Bassett Transport Engineering Pty Ltd

Beddoe, Matthew Bhullar, Harjinder Singh Blanchett, James Cornel Booysen, Sabastian Borg, Jake Brown, Daylia Butcher, Michelle Carao, Analie Tabada Carao, Felix Iii Cervantes Chami, Mahmoud Martin Chrisohidis, Isaak Costanzo, Andrew Crepeau, Joseph Mahmoud Darraj, Lina Datta, Rohit Dib, Dori

Distefano, Nicolas Joseph Doyle, Teagan Duncan, Jake Dwayeb, Osama Ejegi, Eghosa Bright El Rababi, Zakaria Evans, Luke Fackler, Ashley David Ftochoyannis, Athan

Gallo, Franco Haddara, Jihad Ebdel

Hammoud, Ammar Hanh, Nguyen Thi Hano, Yousif Harris, Alexander Harris, Charli Harrison, Anita Ida Hassoun, Ahmed Howell, Ben Humphreys, Bianca Lee Iqbal, Dabeer

Jacobson Hill, Nathan Kalamouni, Assad Karakus, Halil Ibrahim Karatepe, Akif Kassab, Sylvana Kaur, Komalpreet Kezerle, Tony Kirby, Felicia Kon, Michael Alexander Kouta, Hasan Low-Richards, Tyson Manesis, Fotis Mann, Michael Martinuzzo, John Mekha, Rafi Merhi Group Transfer & Recycling P/L Merhi, Khaled Mg Hobby Farm Pty Ltd Mizuki-Matsuno, Jennifer Moore, Darren Nanggerd, Krittitee Ngauma, Wayne Osman, Zead Osmani, Shams Pacific Hire Wangaratta Pty Ltd

Parkvue Homes Pty Ltd Philpot, Amanda Pulass, Rita Wahed Radwan, Nazih Rafihi, Zayd Ristic, Alexandra Salem, Hasan Schliefert, Justine Schrempf, Rhys Slew, Ramy Spiteri, Anthony Sran, Amandeep Singh Tabak, Nurdan Taleb, Hussein Mohamad Taqwa Earth Pty Ltd Thaer, Sadik Thomas, Roxann Ustunder, Loridana Vb Homes Pty Ltd Vicendese, Anthony Vimahi, Anthousa Williams, Jace

Anti-gouging laws in effect

■ Premier Jacinta Allan announced that her government’s anti-price gouging laws are in effect from this week.

The new laws mean fuel retailers must set a daily cap on fuel prices and publish the price in advance.

“Under this scheme, you can find the best deal tonight and know the price won’t jump tomorrow,” said a Government representative.

Retailers have until 2pm to set their fuel price for the following day

The capped price is published on Servo Saver at 4pm

The price will apply for 24 hours from 6am the following day

Retailers can reduce the price during a 24-hour period, but they cannot increase it

Petrol stations that fail to register or report their prices now face fines of more than $3000 for each breach, or more than $24,000 if taken to court.

““How often do you see a cheap price in the morning, only for it to jump by the afternoon?” Ms Allan asked.

“We’re stopping families from getting ripped off at the servo and helping them save hundreds a year.”

RSL fire comments

● ● From Page 3

■ Neil Slaughter , President Waverley RSL , said of this week’s fire: “This is devastating for all at Waverley RSL, and all veterans in the local community.

“The one positive we can take is that the building was unoccupied and that nobody was injured.

“Fire Rescue Victoria has advised us that they were able to save some significant memorabilia. We will not know full details until a full inspection takes place; but we sincerely thank them for their efforts in understanding what this means to the veteran community.

“Elsewhere we believe the damage is extensive to the building but are awaiting further reports from Fire Rescue Victoria

“Our focus for now is ensuring that our veteran community can continue to access support, particularly at a time like this.

“In the interim veterans can contact Box Hill RSL Sub-Branch on 9897 6780 for support.

“Staff will be supported under RSL Victoria's Employment Assistance Program ."

Clint Brewster, Chief Operations Officer, RSL Victoria, said: “RSL Victoria and all in the RSL network across the state send their support to all members affected by the fires at Waverley RSL and Sunshine RSL over this long weekend.

“RSL Victoria has been on site at the Waverley RSL this morning to assist and is working with the Sub-Branch , the City of Monash, Fire Rescue Victoria and Victoria Police .”

“Waverley RSL was due to relocate in early 2028 because of the Suburban Rail Loop. This will not change that negotiation process to secure a future home, but collectively we will need to work with all stakeholders to ensure there is an interim home for the SubBranch

“There is no connection between the Waverley RSL and Sunshine RSL fires, and at this stage neither are being treated as suspicious by Police.”

MS Art show

■ The MS Art Show and Conference wiill be held from 2.30pm on May 2. The Show will be opend by Box Hill MLA Paul Haner.

Venue is the Baptist Church, Station St, Box Hill (cnr Ellingworth Pde)

All artists produce work of igh merit despite living with MS and other neurological conditions

The conference begins at 10am

There will be three speakers:

■ Switching Inflammation to Repair by Dr Sarrabeth Stone , Senior Research Officer, Florey Research Institute

■ Travelling with a Disability by Vanessa and James Wood. James has been in a wheelchair for 30 years and travels widely

■ The potential benefits of socialisation and lifestyle for people with MS by Dr Lisa Grech , Senior Research Fellow, Deakin University. Lisa is a psychologist and has MS.

Resilient Monash

■ Monash Council has developed a draft Climate Resilience Plan for 20262030.

“The plan outlines how we will work with our community to respond to the impacts of a changing climate, futureproof our places and spaces, and continue to reduce emissions,” said a City of Monash representative.

“Our goal is to ensure that Monash is better prepared to adapt and thrive in a changing climate.”

Measles vaccines

■ Knox Council is offering free measles vaccines for Knox residents aged between 20 and 60 years.

Measles is a highly infectious viral disease that can lead to uncommon but serious complications. However, it can be prevented by taking the MMR (measles–mumps–rubella) vaccine.

Peopleneed two doses of the measles vaccine to be fully protected. There is an increased risk of measles in Victoria , especially in metropolitan Melbourne

Bacharach, beyond

■ Jack Howard has been presenting his beautiful Bacharach and Beyond show around Melbourne with the splendid Ambassadors Of Love. The song list is breathtaking – Say A Little Prayer, The Look Of Love, Alfie, Anyone Who Had A Heart and so many more plus tunes from Jimmy Webb, The Carpenters and even Elvis. Memo Music Hall, Sunday, July 12. Tickets at Trybooking.com

Melinda in Melb.

■ Aussie country music icon Melinda Schenider will perform in Victoria, commencing March 13. Bellarine Estate, Memo Music Hall, Sooki Lounge, will all host the popular entertainer as she promotes her new album Tender, her first original album in over a decade. More info at https://melindaschneider. com/shows

Winter Blues

■ Winter Blues Festival returns to Echuca in 2026 for four days of worldclass blues and roots in the Murray Region Winter Blues has long felt like a homecoming: a grassroots, all-in experience that turns Echuca–Moama into a live music hub each winter, filling venues, streets, and the riverfront with unforgettable performances.

Winter Blues celebrates blues and roots music from across Australia, offering a weekend where music lovers reconnect, new friendships form, and live music takes centre stage across the region.

DISUNITED STATES AT THE MOTLEY BAUHAUS

■ Comedian and actor Richard Mealey debuts a brand new original work at this year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival , critiquing his American homeland for Aussie audiences.

In Richard's words: “When your homeland falls under authoritarian rule, you only have two options: fight the tyranny or ... ya know, pretend like you've never even been there.’ Born to British immigrants and residing in Australia for the last 12 years, Richard Mealey ( Elephant Rope, A Twist of Fate) isn't a "real American".

Sure, he loves baseball, fried cheese, and hitting those hard "R"s in door, drawer, and poor. But the America that exists today isn't the same one he left Directed by Barney Pollock , Disunited States explores Richard's disillusionment with being American , and the growing unease of no longer having a “real home”.

Filled with characters from different slices of Americana , he exposes truths both obvious and hidden.

Performances will take place from April 6-19 in The Cellar at The Motley Bauhaus, 7.15pm. Bookings: comedyfestival. com.au

Review by Cheryl Threadgold

Local Cricket Weekend Results

Premier

■ Firsts. Finals. Two Days. Sat.-Sun., Mar. 78. St Kilda 1st XI 8/354 v Casey South Melbourne 1st XI 10/332. Melbourne 1st XI 3/315 v Footscray 1st XI 9-d/311. Carlton 1st XI 8/361 v Richmond 1st XI 10/125. Northcote 1st XI 10/265 v Prahran 1st XI 7/268

■ Seconds. Fitzroy Doncaster 2nd XI 5/176 v Melbourne 2nd XI 10/171. St Kilda 2nd XI 10/ 326 v Melbourne University 2nd XI 10/257. Carlton 2nd XI 4/215 v Richmond 2nd XI 10/ 212.

■ Thirds. Melbourne 3rd XI 4/212 v Kingston Hawthorn 3rd XI 10/208. Fitzroy Doncaster 3rd XI 10/231 & 0/71 v Essendon 3rd XI 10/172. Melbourne University 3rd XI 10/157 v Ringwood 3rd XI 10/328. Geelong 3rd XI 10/ 301 v St Kilda 3rd XI 10/150.

■ Fourths. Melbourne University 4th XI 8/220 v Carlton 4th XI 10/219. Melbourne 4th XI 10/154 v Fitzroy Doncaster 4th XI 9-d/267. Richmond 4th XI 7/266 v Frankston Peninsula 4th XI 7-d/ 306. St Kilda 4th XI 3/205 v Footscray 4th XI 10/ 201.

Sub-District

■ East West 1st XI. One Day. Box Hill 1st XI 10/56 v Croydon 1st XI 5/263. Donvale 1st XI 9/157 v Balwyn 1st XI 6/158. Endeavour Hills 1st XI 10/226 v Noble Park 1st XI 10/173. Mt Waverley 1st XI 9/231 v Bayswater 1st XI 7/ 228. Altona 1st XI 10/157 v Spotswood 1st XI 9/161. Hoppers Crossing 1st XI 9/193 v Williamstown 1st XI 7/149. Werribee 1st XI 3/ 130 v Taylors Lakes 1st XI 10/129. Yarraville 1st XI 10/267 v Melton 1st XI 9/265.

■ East West 2nd XI. Croydon 2nd XI 3/103 v Box Hill 2nd XI 10/102. Balwyn 2nd XI 1/167 v Donvale 2nd XI 9/166. Noble Park 2nd XI 8/ 150 v Endeavour Hills 2nd XI 10/149. Bayswater 2nd XI 10/105 v Mt Waverley 2nd XI 7/214. Spotswood 2nd XI 9/170 v Altona 2nd XI 10/156 Williamstown 2nd XI 7/192 v Hoppers Crossing 2nd XI 10/95. Taylors Lakes 2nd XI 8/163 v Werribee 2nd XI 9/161. Melton 2nd XI 1/78 v Yarraville 2nd XI 10/77.

■ North South 1st XI. T South 2nd XI. Coburg 1st XI 10/184 v Plenty Valley 1st XI 10/159. Kew 1st XI 10/135 v Ivanhoe 1st XI 10/164. Preston 1st XI 4/152 v Strathmore 1st XI 10/151. St Bernard's OC 1st XI 6/200 v Brunswick 1st XI 10/198. Moorabbin 1st XI 7/181 v Elsternwick 1st XI 8/220. Oakleigh 1st XI 4/199 v Caulfield 1st XI 8/193. Ormond 1st XI 5/230 v Malvern 1st XI 10/206. Port Melbourne 1st XI 10/100 v Brighton 1st XI 6/204

■ North West 3rd XI Division 1. Hoppers Crossing 3rd XI 10/196 v St Bernard's OC 3rd XI 10/134. Melton 3rd XI 10/131 v Plenty Valley 3rd XI 10/110. Taylors Lakes 3rd XI 5/153 v Brunswick 3rd XI 10/152. Werribee 3rd XI 10/94 v Preston 3rd XI 2/95.

■ North West 3rd XI Division 2. Altona 3rd XI 8/134 v Spotswood 3rd XI 5/138. Ivanhoe 3rd XI 3/155 v Kew 3rd XI 10/152. Strathmore 3rd XI 10/219 v Coburg 3rd XI 10/152. Yarraville 3rd XI 10/141 v Williamstown 3rd XI 8/260

■ North West 4th XI Division 1. St Bernard's OC 4th XI 9/163 v Hoppers Crossing 4th XI 7/164. Plenty Valley 4th XI 6/186 v Melton 4th XI 10/102. Brunswick 4th XI 10/ 162 v Taylors Lakes 4th XI 10/223. Preston

4th XI 6/208 v Werribee 4th XI 10/140

■ North West 4th XI Division 2. Spotswood 4th XI 5/87 v Altona 4th XI 10/86. Kew 4th XI 10/132 v Ivanhoe 4th XI 4/306. Coburg 4th XI 10/181 v Strathmore 4th XI 10/147. Williamstown 4th XI 5/209 v Yarraville 4th XI 6/207

■ South East 3rd XI Division 1. Caulfield 3rd XI 10/103 v Mt Waverley 3rd XI 1/104. Croydon 3rd XI 7/286 v Bayswater 3rd XI 10/104. Malvern 3rd XI 8/185 v Balwyn 3rd XI 9/186. Oakleigh 3rd XI 10/172 v Elsternwick 3rd XI 5/216

■ South East 3rd XI Division 2. Box Hill 3rd XI 10/155 v Brighton 3rd XI 4/156. Port Melbourne 3rd XI 10/128 v Donvale 3rd XI 10/110. Moorabbin 3rd XI 5/177 v Endeavour Hills 3rd XI 10/173. Noble Park 3rd XI 10/117 v Ormond 3rd XI 10/95

■ South East 4th XI Division 1. Mt Waverley 4th XI 5/154 v Caulfield 4th XI 10/ 135. Balwyn 4th XI 5/130 v Malvern 4th XI 10/129. Elsternwick 4th XI 9/202 v Oakleigh 4th XI 9/134. Bayswater 4th XI 10/98 v Croydon 4th XI 3/100.

■ South East 4th XI Division 2. Brighton 4th XI 3/192 v Box Hill 4th XI 10/69. Donvale 4th XI 9/105 v Port Melbourne 4th XI 3/108. Endeavour Hills 4th XI 10/198 v Moorabbin 4th XI 10/123. Ormond 4th XI 8/188 v Noble Park 4th XI 10/182.

Diamond Valley

■ Barclay Shield. Finals. Two Days. Sat.Sun., Mar. 7-8. Rosanna 1st XI 10/114 & 3/ 137 v Macleod 1st XI 10/38. Diamond Creek 1st XI 10/88 v Epping 1st XI 7-d/89.

■ Money Shield. Eltham 1st XI 3/83 v Mernda 1st XI 10/81. Lower Plenty 1st XI 10/167 v Banyule 1st XI 10/103.

■ Mash Shield. Keon Park CC 1st XI 10/ 192 v Panton Hill 1st XI 6/194. Rivergum 1st XI 6/271 v Hurstbridge 1st XI 10/222.

■ B-Grade. Riverside 2nd XI 2/112 v Mernda 2nd XI 10/111. Rosanna 2nd XI 10/ 89 & 4-d/127 v Diamond Creek 2nd XI 10/ 99 & 2/36

■ C-Grade. Bundoora United 2nd XI 10/ 141 v Lower Plenty 2nd XI 10/164. Eltham 2nd XI 10/211 v Riverside 3rd XI 3/334.

■ D-Grade. Panton Hill 2nd XI 9/224 v Lower Plenty 3rd XI 9/223. Hurstbridge 2nd XI 10/117 v North Eltham Wanderers 3rd XI 7/123.

■ E-Grade. Mernda 3rd XI 9/241 v South Morang 3rd XI 10/131. Banyule 3rd XI 10/ 146. Lower Eltham 2nd XI 10/116

■ F1-Grade. Rivergum 3rd XI 10/259 v Banyule 4th XI 6/261. Whittlesea 1st XI 10/ 240 v Macleod 3rd XI 10/71.

■ F2-Grade. Montmorency 4th XI 2/70 v Mernda 4th XI 10/67. Research Eltham Collegians 4th XI 10/180 v Hurstbridge 3rd XI 10/132

Eastern

■ Dunstan Shield. Finals. Two Days. Sat.Sun., Mar. 7-8. Mont Albert 1st XI 10/154 v North Balwyn 1st XI 10/132. Old Carey 1st XI 10/224 v East Doncaster 1st XI 10/184.

■ Wright Shield. Heathmont 1st XI 10/238 v Ashburton Willows 1st XI 10/118. Surrey Hills 1st XI 10/130 v Mulgrave 1st XI 7-d/ 131.

■ A Turf. Mazenod OC 1st XI 10/248 v Ashwood 1st XI 10/183. Balwyn Saints 1st XI 10/226 v Burwood 1st XI 8/259.

■ B Turf. Richmond Union 1st XI 10/162 v Bulleen 2nd XI 7/165. North Balwyn 2nd XI 10/271 v East Doncaster 2nd XI 10/128.

■ C Turf. Mulgrave 2nd XI 10/115 & 10/84 v Hawthorn Boroondara 2nd XI 10/40 & 10/ 59. Edinburgh 2nd XI 10/99 v Burwood 2nd XI 10/126 & 0/33.

■ D Turf. Ashburton Willows 2nd XI 4/101 v Old Carey 3rd XI 10/100. Ashwood 2nd XI 8/207 v Marcellin OC 2nd XI 5/208.

■ E Turf. Edinburgh 3rd XI 10/180 v Richmond Union 2nd XI 10/82. Balwyn Saints 2nd XI 10/271 v Heathmont 3rd XI 10/286.

■ F Turf. Richmond City 3rd XI 8/133 v St. Kevins Old Boys 2nd XI 6/134. Bulleen 3rd XI 7/183 v East Doncaster 3rd XI 10/75.

■ MacGibbon Shield. Clifton Hill 1st XI 7/ 215 v Glen Waverley 1st XI 10/132. Trinity Willison 1st XI 8-d/493 v Burwood Unt. Canterbury 1st XI 10/161

■ Burt Shield. St. Paul's Oakleigh District 1st XI 9/260 v Holy Trinity 2nd XI 10/137. Toorak Prahran 1st XI 5/114 v Trinity Willison 2nd XI 10/113.

Mornington Peninsula

■ Provincial Firsts. One Day. Mornington 1sts 10/186 v Heatherhill 1sts 7/194. Dromana 1sts 3/174 v Sorrento 1sts 8/172. Pines 1sts 6/144 v Red Hill 1sts 10/143. Langwarrin 1sts 7/145 v Baden Powell 1sts 7/146

■ Peninsula Firsts. Old Peninsula 1sts 6/ 210 v Seaford CC 1sts 10/104. Somerville 1sts 1/155 v Moorooduc 1sts 10/149. Balnarring 1sts 10/153 v Rosebud 1sts 9/ 153. Long Island 1sts 6/95 v Mt Eliza 1sts 10/93

■ District Firsts. Rye 1sts 10/184 v Carrum CC 1sts 10/160. Crib Point 1sts 5/172 v Boneo 1sts 10/114. Seaford Tigers 1sts 7/ 182 v Flinders 1sts 6/183. Carrum Downs 1sts 4/123 v Main Ridge 1sts 10/122.

■ Sub-District Firsts. Ballam Park 1sts 6/ 155 v Frankston YCW 1st 7/152. Mt Martha 1sts 6/162 v Delacombe Park 1sts 10/68. Pearcedale 1sts 10/38 v Skye 1sts 4/39. Tyabb 1sts 6/268 v Tootgarook 1sts 10/149. Bye: Baxter 1sts.

North Metro

■ Jika Shield. Two Days. Finals. Sat.-Sun., Mar. 7-8. Preston Baseballers CC 1st XI 10/ 227 v Northern Socials CC 1st XI 10/161. Olympic Colts CC 1st XI 10/207 v Fiji Victorian CC 1st XI 10/305.

■ Jack Quick Shield. Bellfield Bulls CC 1st XI 10/108 v Cameron CC 1st XI 9/139. Reservoir Cobras CC 1st XI 10/158 v Fiji Victorian CC 2nd XI 10/172

■ Jack Kelly Shield. v Preston Baseballers CC 2nd XI 10/112. Ivanhoe Mavericks CC 1st XI 10/123 v Fairfield CC 1st XI 8/181

■ B-Grade. Wollert Rhinos CC 1st XI 9/323 (65) v Bellfield Bulls CC 2nd XI 10/128. Fiji Victorian CC 3rd XI 9/223 v Northern Socials CC 2s XI 9/173

■ C-Grade. Bellfield Bulls CC 3rd XI 5/142 (v Preston Baseballers CC 3rd XI 10/141. Camrea Stingrays CC 2nd XI 6/139 v Reservoir Cobras CC 2nd XI 10/88.

■ Robert Young DODC. Preston YCW District OD 10/89 v Kinglake CC OD 8/92. Cameron CC OD 8/192 v Donath CC OD 10/167

Ringwood District

■ Lindsay Trollope Shield. Two Days. Finals. Sat.-Sun., Mar. 7-8. Montrose 1XI 6/ 180 v St Andrews 1XI 10/179. North Ringwood 1XI 10/83 v Ainslie Park 1XI 10/ 169.

■ Bill Wilkins Cup. Mooroolbark 1XI 10/ 283 v Heatherdale 1XI 6/320. East Ringwood 1XI 10/201 v Wonga Park 1XI 10/ 116.

■ Stuart Newey Plate. Warrandyte 1XI 10/ 68 v Templeton 1XI 10/218. Seville Burras 1XI 10/348 v Healesville 1XI 10/77

■ Steve Pascoe Shield. East Ringwood 2XI 2/228 v Montrose 2XI 10/225. Croydon North 1XI 7/133 v North Ringwood 2XI 9d/129

South East

■ Longmuir Shield. Two Days. Finals. Sat.-Sun., Mar. 7-8. Le Page Park 1 10/90 v East Sandringham 1 6/93

■ Woolnough Shield. Omega 1 9-d/234 v Cluden 1 10/230

■ Quiney Shield. Omega 2 9/151 v Bentleigh Uniting 2 10/98

■ Pullen Shield. Kingston Heath 2 10/128 v Mackie 2 3/131

■ E-Grade. Southside East Caulfield 1 8/ 226 v South East Oakleigh 1 10/121.

Western

■ A-Grade. Manor Lakes 2nd XI 10/177 v Truganina Strikers CC Yellow 1st XI 7/179. Altona Sports 1st XI 10/74 v Williams Landing SC 1st XI 3/172

■ B-Grade. Altona Sports 2nd XI 2/188 v Glen Orden Thunder 6th XI 9/177. Point Cook Centrals 3rd XI 10/190 v Western Lions 1st XI 10/125.

Police Rounds

Witness appeal

■ Prahran Highway Patrol officers are investigating a serious collision in St Kilda on Monday afternoon (Mar. 9).

Emergency services responded to reports of a black BMW motorcycle and a grey Land Rover Discovery c olliding at the intersection of Blessington St and Marine Pde about 12 Noon.

The rider, a 35-year-old Glen Waverley man, was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the vehicle, a 57-yearold Malvern East man, was not injured and has been spoken to by police.

The investigation into the collision remains ongoing and police are appealing for any witnesses who were in the area at the time, including those who may have CCTV or dashcam of the incident to come forward. Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Tell the world with a Local Paper Classified Ad

Are you celebrating a special event? Then tell the world with a Local Paper Classified Ad. If it’s personal or family, it might be a notice about a birth, a special birthday or an anniversary. You might want to share the news of an engagement or wedding. Or perhaps you would like to pay a tribute to a departed dear one with an obituary.

Perhaps your business or organisation is expanding. Would you like to congratulate one of your team on their achievements?

Is there a Public Notice you need to publish, or do you want to promote a coming event? We can help you with the wording. Phone an Ad-visor today on 9489 2222.

PETER YOUNG STAKES OVER 1800M.

■ In addition to the VOBIS races programmed at Caulfield on Saturday (Mar. 14), the Peter Young Stakes will be run at weightfor-age over 1800 metres.

Known as the St George Stakes prior to being renamed in 2012, this unassuming Group 2 event has punched well above its weight over the years.

Since Phar Lap won in 1931, by only listing multiple winners of the race, a select group of horses is assembled: High Caste, Tranquil Star, Comic Court, Lord, Dhaulagiri, Rain Lover, Leilani, Vo Rogue, Durbridge and Northerly.

Possible runners this year include the following horses:

Birdman

Irish horse who has improved with each preparation in Australia. Proved too good last time in the Blamey Stakes over 1600 metres at Flemington. This would be a nice progression in his preparation towards a tilt at the Australian Cup

Apulia

Showed great promise as a two and threeyear-old. Ran second in a photo finish behind Riff Rocket in the Victoria Derby. Made a successful return from serious injury late last year, culminating in a Perth Cup victory on New Year’s Day. This is intended to be his final leadup run into the Australian Cup in a fortnight.

Own your own

■ Have you ever thought about owning a racehorse? Being able to purchase a small share, not only makes it more affordable, but also means the experience can be enjoyed with others.

Take a trip to the track, catch up with coowners, talk to the trainer and jockey, and cheer home your horse.

Australia has led the way in racehorse syndication and fractional ownership, making it possible for many more people to become involved in thoroughbred racing.

Almost 70,000 enthusiasts participate as owners in Victoria with the potential to share in $316 million in prizemoney and bonuses. Ensuring there are enough horses for people to own and race, are the breeders.

Victoria’s breeders produce quality progeny, standing well-credentialled stallions to attract highly regarded mares.

There is no better example than the past two Champion Victorian Bred Racehorse of the Year award winners, Bella Nipotina and Treasurethe Moment

To encourage and reward owners and breeders, and stimulate activity in the local industry, the Victorian Owners and Breeders Incentive Scheme (VOBIS) was established.

More than $30 million in VOBIS prizemoney, bonuses and vouchers is available every year to eligible participants.

This Saturday (Mar. 14) the annual Victorian Owners and Breeders Race Day will be held at Caulfield

Almost $3 million in VOBIS prizemoney, bonuses and vouchers will be on offer on this day alone.

Million dollar prizes

■ Two of Australia’s greatest racehorses were the first two thoroughbreds to break through the $1 million prizemoney barrier, and they did it on the same day at the same track.

Moonee Valley was the scene of these remarkable achievements on Saturday, October 23, 1982.

Rod Basto Observer Racing

Kingston Town won his third consecutive W. S. Cox Plate, when appearing unlikely to do so as the field rounded the final turn for the short run to the winning post.

It wasn’t until well into the straight that an all-mighty roar erupted from the crowd, as the champ overcame adversity to swamp the leaders and create history.

Very few people left their vantage points following the Cox Plate

Shortly after the trophy presentation was completed, horses entered the mounting yard for the A. J. Moir Stakes

Like Kingston Town, the mighty Manikato was nearing the end of his illustrious career.

Beaten at his previous two starts, it ap-

peared as though the writing was on the wall.

Rancher, a winner of eight races as a twoyear-old from as many starts, was the odds-on favourite.

He opened his account as a three-year old with victory in the Ascot Vale Stakes and was chasing 10 wins from 10 starts.

Rancher kept Manikato three-wide throughout, and the battle-scarred sprinter was running third with his much younger rival ahead of him in second place turning for home.

Suddenly, just like the race before, there was a thunderous crowd roar.

Manikato ground his way to the front and toughed it out for a brave win.

It’s hard to believe now, but the punters couldn’t have asked for more.

Kingston Town started 7/4 favourite ($2.75) and Manikato 9/2 ($5.50).

Prizemoney has skyrocketed since then.

Look at the mouth-watering amounts won by the current leading prizemoney earners: Winx ($26.4 million), Bella Nipotina ($22.7m), Nature Strip ($20.7m), Via Sistina ($19.4m) and Mr Brightside ($18.8m).

Horses To Follow

■ Federalist

■ Bee Admired

■ Lyrics ‘N’ Song

■ It’s A Yes

Racing Calendar

■ Wednesday, March 11: Sandown Hillside

■ Thursday, March 12: Pakenham

■ Friday, March 13: Kyneton, Cranbourne

■ Saturday, March 14: Caulfield, Geelong, Alexandra

■ Sunday, March 15: Yarra Valley, Swan Hill

■ Tuesday, March 17: Terang

Rod Basto

SIX RACE CARD AT TERANG

■ A small six race card at Terang opened the week on Monday March 2 and Hamilton part-owner/trainer Chris Walsh better known being attached to the Barker team was victorious with 6Y0 Hes Watching-May Happen gelding Watch It Happen in the Terang Co-Op Rural Store Pace over 1680 metres.

With Michael Bellman in the sulky, Watch It Happen led throughout from the pole and after being rated a treat, kicked clear on turning to just last by a half neck from Easy Rolling (gate four) which raced outside him from the bell. Quick Decision (gate two second line – one/two – three wide last lap was third a half head away. The mile rate 1-58.9.

■ Popular Meltonian Ken Tippet raced and trained 7Y0 Grinfromeartoear-Miss Momentum gelding Ima Charma to land the 1680 metre Terang Cup 27 March Pace. Driven by Ewa Justice, Ima Charma led all of the way from gate three to defeat polemarker Illawong Phoenix which trailed easily by 7.4 metres, with Wingate Guy (gate two second line – one/two – three wide to outside the winner at the bell third 8.9 metres back. The mile rate -57.1.

■ Allansford part-owner/trainer Gary Barton who’s family have been involved in the sport for many years produced a first starter by the name of McBart who was impressive in taking the Matt Clarke Gardening Maiden Pace over 1680 metres returning a 1-56.1 mile rate.

A 4Y0 gelded son of McWicked from Northern Velocity driven by Jason Lee, McBart lobbed behind the poleline pacemaker Keayang Alabama before easing away from the pegs on the home turn and finished his race off well to prevail by 9 metres from Keayang Alabama who was no match over the concluding stages. Another first starter Storms (by The Storm Inside) was third 13.9 metres back after trailing the pair from gate three.

■ It was great to see Rodney Barker in the winners stall following the victory of his veteran father Jim trained honest 7Y0 Majestic Son-Idle Lee Sonarmi Joh in the Terang Fitness Trotters Handicap over 2180 metres much to the delight of Bendigo based Brimacombe family.

A second at Ararat the previous Friday, Sonarmi Joh did one better on this occasion and after settling five back along the markers from a 30 metre equal backmark, moved one/one for the last lap with the leader Wistful Lady (barrier four) setting the pace.

Angling three wide on the final bend, Somarmi Joh finished full of running to defeat the leader which gave a sight. Aldebarn Anton (30 metres) also trained by Jim and driven by Rod’s daughter Jackie raced uncovered from six pegs for the last lp finishing third. The margins 1.1 by 2.1 metres in a mile rate of 2-05.5.

■ The Charles Stewart Pace over 2180 metres concluded the program and it was a rough result with Kolora owner/trainer Barry Beasley victorious with 5Y0 Always B Miki-Lady Blanchett gelding Pretty Basic paying odds of $20.80.

With Michael Bellman who bookended the program in the sulky, Pretty Basic enjoyed a cosy trip trailing the raging hot $107 favourite Decode (gate six) which flew away crossing Pretty Basic which led momentarily.

Making every use of the sprint lane, Pretty Basic bloused Decode which gave nothing to score by three metres in a mile rate of 2-01.1. Another Woods (extreme draw) after making a swift move from the tail in the last lap to issue a challenge to the leader gave ground in the straight to finish third 2.4 metres back.

Shepparton

■ Tuesday was Shepparton’s regular venue and Kialla trainer/driver Cameron Maggs was successful with 5Y0 Sweet LouLittlebitsassy mare Lady Deekaynwhy in the Murray Live 1521 2QN Maiden Pace over 2190 metres.

Raced by Georgina Coram who bred her with Simone Walker now involved with gallopers, Lady Deekaynwhy (gate six) galloped shortly after the start but regained her gait rather quickly to settle four back in the moving line as Best By A Mile led from gate two.

Making ground swiftly three wide in the last lap, Lady Deekaynwhy sustained a

long run to get the prize in a thrilling finish by a half head from Life Ona Highway (one/two), with Sweet Face (gate five) using the sprint lane for third a half head back after trailing the pacemaker. The mile rate 2-05.1.

■ Popular Lockington trainer Ted Jepson (91) provided handy 4Y0 Soho TribecaMeghan Suits Her mare Soho Playgirl to snare the 1690 metre Wangaratta Cup @ Shepparton Sunday Pace returning a mile rate of 1-56.6.

Driven by ‘ace’ reinsman James Herbertson, Soho Playgirl at start number forty five (6 wins prior) enjoyed a beaut passage one/one from outside the front line and although passed by Aussie Jay Mac (gate four – one/two on the home turn) rallied strongly in the straight to gain the day by 2.8 metres. Chirripo (gate two second line) used the sprint lane from three pegs for third a half head back.

Soho Playgirl raced by Ted, wife Fay, and long time friends the Shegog’s who love their harness racing.

■ Monegeetta trainer/driver David Miles’ handy 4Y0 Ultimate Machete-Savior Clare mare Evileye second up since February last year was a tough victor of the Murrayfnl 2026 Season Launch Pace over 1690 metres.

Slotting four back in the running line from inside the second line as Shazza Love and Chris Alford speared out to lead from gate four.

Evileye gradually made ground in the final circuit to be one/two before going forward three wide on the final bend and ran home nicely despite being pushed four wide on turning to greet the judge by a half neck in advance of Shazza Love returning a mile rate of 1-56.2. Clives Girl (one/two from gate two) was third 1.3 metres away.

Bendigo

■ It was Bendigo on Wednesday with a nine event card which included four trotting events.

Ballan trainer Dianne Giles and daughter Leilani Justice were successful with 7Y0 ex-Kiwi Imperial Count-Princess Janie gelding Noble Count in the 2150 metre Smartloans Bendigo Trotters Mobile. Settling beautifully one/one from gate two on the second line as Mielicki began best from gate four to head the field, but only briefly as Just About Dusty (gate five in the open) crossed shortly after.

After a cosy passage, Noble Count was eased three wide on the home turn to give chase and finished his race off well to register a 2 metre victory over Just Abit Rusty. Dels Destiny restrained from outside the front line to be five back along the markers sprouted wings late out wide in the straight for third 2.6 metres back. The mile rate 2-01.3.

■ Seven year old Kvintet Avenger-Atego Lilly mare Atego Dawn now in the stable of Toolern Vale’s Anthony Spiteri returned to the winners list for the first time since May last year by taking the 1650 metre Simonds Homes Bendigo Trotters Mobile. Driven by Shane Hoban, Atego Dawn led from the pole before being eased to allow the in-form Charlie Walker (outside the front line) to assume control but not before spending some petrol to do so.

Using the sprint lane, Atego Dawn scored by 1.6 metres from a game Charlie Walker in a mile rate of 2-00.5. Money Talks (inside the second line) angled to one/one

on the final bend to be third 2.6 metres away after being slightly held up going to the wire.

■ A number of harness devotees named the Telern Group which consisted of the late Terry Wait (breeder), Tony Ely and John Suffern plus Bob Adamson and Jim Grant who joined the group later were thrilled when 4Y0 Vincent-Telern Pepper gelding Telern Lofty (named in honour of Terry) was victorious in the 1650 metre Bendigo Ski Boat Centre Pace.

First up since April last year, Telern Lofty trained and driven by Monegeetta’s David Miles was eased at the start from gate five to possie three back along the markers with the heavily supported Skyfall Benchmark leading from gate four.

Coming away from the inside approaching the final bend, Telern Lofty ran to the post nicely to record a 2 metre victory (his fourth in eight outings) in advance of Skyfall Benchmark returning a 1-56.1 mile rate. Kitsune (gate six) was third 6.9 metres back after following the winner for most of the way.

■ Six year old Father Patrick-Happy Maori gelding Macho Maori now in the stable of Nigel Milne and family at Goornong snared the 2150 metre Stonemans Village IGA & Liquor Strathdale Trotters Mobile- his first since August last year.

Driven by Nigel, Macho Maori a winner of seven from 83 going into the race settled three back in the moving line from a solo second line draw as Aldebaran Maverick led from outside the front line. Driven coldly Macho Maori was not asked for an effort until easing wide on the home turn, motored to the wire to record a 2.7 metre margin over Aldebaran Maverick (one/one) from outside the front line returning a mile rate of 2-05.1.

Playa Del Carmen (gate four) fourth after leading was promoted to third when Bet Bet Hotshot (gate five) in the breeze was relegated for galloping over the line.

Ballarat

■ What a night it was for Myrniong’s Craig Demmler at Ballarat on Thursday with a training winner (Blackindeed) and a driving winner (Just Pedro) on the night. Blackindeed, a 5Y0 Guaranteed-Black Cougar) mare driven by ‘The Herbster’ James Herbertson led throughout from gate two in the ballarattrottingclub. com.au Pace over 1710 metres, accounting for Im Wesley which trailed from the pole by 1.2 metres in a mile rate of 1-54.1.

Skippys Delight (three pegs from inside the second line was third 5.1 metres back after following the pair.

■ Five year old Always B Miki-A Victor gelding Just Pedro trained by Jeff Tabone in Werribee settled three back along the markers from gate three in the 2200 metre Woodlands Stud Pace as Wichita Kansas (gate five) worked to the front.

Gaining inside runs on turning, Just Pedro bloused the leader by a half head to get the prize right on the wire. Flying Sparks (gate four – death seat – behind leader – death seat home turn) was third 2.2 metres away. The mile rate 1-58.

■ Ballan trainer/driver Anna Farrell produced a nine year old gelding by the name of Jumping Jones making his race debut in the QA Electrical Maiden Trotters Mobile over 2200 metres and was the victor in a 2-05.6 mile rate.

Raced by the Farrell family, Jumping Jones raced exposed from gate two as Metro Swish inside him led. When the leader galloped on the final bend, Jumping Jones raced clear and held a margin to the post, winning easily by 7.7 metres from Pipalicious (gate three second line – midfield to be outside the leader on the home turn), with Moonlight Billy (gate two second line – behind leader home turn) third 14.6 metres back.

■ Everyone involved in harness racing knows Ross Creek trainer Katrina Fitzpatrick the most excitable person on course should she have a runner and on Thursday it was 4Y0 Aldebaran EagleJannys Dream gelding Night Flight who landed the Flying Horse Entertainment Venue 0-1 LTW Trotters Mobile over 1710 metres.

Driven by Ewa Justice Night Flight led throughout from gate two and to the deafening screams from Katrina, cruised to the wire 11.4 metres in advance of Chantilly

This Week

■ Wednesday – Bendigo, Thursday –Mildura, Friday – Geelong (Cup), Saturday – Melton, Monday – Maryborough, Tuesday – Shepparton.

Lass (outside front line – one/two at bell). Chillyhunnybunny (gate three which trailed the winner was third 4.3 metres away. The mile rate two minutes even. Night Flight is raced by Katrina and husband Darren who no doubt celebrated well into the night.

Latest

News

Len Baker

Yea Golf

Midweek Competition

Wednesday saw the men play an Irish Stableford event. On the front nine the best score from each pair was recorded, while on the back nine both players’ scores counted.

The winners were Jeff Aurisch (23) and Rob O’Halloran (20) with 63 points, finishing two points clear of Tony Ruhl (17) and John Renehan (43) on 61 points.

Third place went to Bob Glenister (10) and Alan Pell (11) with 54 points.

Nearest the Pin on the 2nd hole was Luke Gregory, while the Lucky Club Award ($10) went to Rob Gill. Saturday – Opening of the Golf Season Saturday marked the official opening of the golf season, played as a 3-Person Ambrose. A field of 39 players enjoyed the day.

Results:

1st – Anthony La Grutta, Luke Gregory and Bill Dredge – 68 gross, nett 59.83 2nd – Kevin Coghlan, Rick Wills and Brendan Chenhall – 68 gross, nett 61.5 3rd – Paul Heyen, Rob Gill and Miranda Gill – 74 gross, nett 62.66

Nearest the Pin (2nd): Luke Gregory. In the 4-Person Ambrose (two scores to count), Team Dunne returned 65 gross, nett 55.625.

Murder charge

■ Homicide Squad detectives have charged a man in relation to the fatal shooting of a man in Strathtulloh on March 5.

Police were called to reports of a man with critical injuries in the street the intersection of Snipe Drive and Spadefoot Place about 12.40am. Emergency services worked on the 36year-old man, but he died at the scene.

A 31-year-old Werribee man was arrested this evening in Skye and has been interviewed by Homicide Squad detectives. He has been charged with one count of murder and was remanded to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on March 9.

Invasion attempt

■ Casey Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged three youths following an alleged attempted home invasion in Melbourne’s south early hours Sunday morning (Mar. 8).

Police responded to a report of an attempted home invasion in Cranbourne East. It is alleged that three male offenders gained access to a blue Mazda CX3 which was parked on Stakes St about 4.40am.

One of the offenders allegedly attempted to access a property but was unsuccessful. The group fled on foot towards Ontaginal Way, and two teenagers were arrested on Criterion Way. Police located the third teen nearby on and he was taken into custody. Two 18-year-old men, both from Cranbourne, were charged with attempted home invasion.

•No Charges, No Commission •No catches

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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.

Seeking John and Peggy Bailey in Coolaroo - Victoria Please contact Sylvia Hall. Now living in Katoomba NSW. Email: sylvia85hall@gmail.com /steve.hall70@yahoo.com

NOTICES

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION DETAILS

Application reference number: P24/0977.01

Applicant name: ARC ENG DESIGN

The Land affected by this application is located at:

114 BRADFORD ROAD MOUNT MARTHA LOT 9 LP 7096 VOL 8459 FOL 004

The application is to amend permit number by: AMENDING THE PLANS / DOCUMENTS ENDORSED UNDER THE PERMIT GENERALLY INVOLVING:

• Increase maximum building height from 5.92 metres to 7.88 metres.

• Increase maximum wall height from 4.867 meters to 6.865 meters.

• Increase building setback from eastern side boundary from 1.50 meters to 1.99 meters.

• Reduce extent of earthworks.

• Vary restrictive covenant AY864038X affecting the land described as Lot 9 on Plan of Subdivision 007096 on Volume 8459 Folio 004 by amending item (a) (building envelopes) by replacing building heights fixed by Australian Height Datum (AHD) level ‘118.85’ with new levels.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 18 MARCH 2026

How can I find out more? You may look at the application and any documents that support the application free of charge at: www.mornpen.vic.gov.au

You may also call (03) 5950 1010 to arrange a time to look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council. This can be done during office hours and is free of charge.

Privacy Notification: The personal information provided in an objection is collected for planning purposes in accordance with the Planning & Environment Act 1987 (the Act). The public may view an objection in accordance with Section 57 of the Act whilst the planning application is current

FOR SALE

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NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION DETAILS

Application reference number: P25/2237

Applicant name: B KONDOS

The Land affected by this application is located at: 41 NAVIGATOR STREET MCCRAE LOT 1 PS 647182 VOL 11508 FOL 255

The application is for a permit to: DEVELOP DOUBLE STOREY DWELLING AND VARY RESTRICTIVE COVENANT PS647182H BY:

•DELETING THE WORDS “THE REGISTERED PROPRIETOR OR PROPRIETORS FOR THE TIME BEING OF LOT 1 ON THIS PLAN OF SUBDIVISION SHALL NOT CONSTRUCT OR ALLOW TO BE CONSTRUCTED A BUILDING OUTSIDE THE AREA SHOWN HATCHED ON THE DIAGRAM BELOW”

•AND REPLACING WITH THE WORDS “THE REGISTERED PROPRIETOR OR PROPRIETORS FOR THE TIME BEING OF LOT 1 ON THIS PLAN OF SUBDIVISION SHALL NOT CONSTRUCT OR ALLOW TO BE CONSTRUCTED ANY BUILDING (EXCEPT FOR SUNBLINDS, VERANDAHS, PORCHES, EAVES, FACIAS, GUTTERS, MASONRY CHIMNEYS, FLUES, PIPES, DOMESTIC FUEL OR WATER TANKS, HEATING OR COOLING EQUIPMENT OR SERVICES, LANDINGS WITH AN AREA OF NOT MORE THAN 2sqm AND LESS THAN 1m HIGH, STAIRS, RAMPS, PAVERS, RETAINING WALLS, PERGOLAS, SHADE SAILS, SWIMMING POOL AND ASSOCIATED OUTBUILDINGS OF AREA NOT EXCEEDING 25sqm) OUTSIDE THE AREA SHOWN HATCHED ON THE DIAGRAM BELOW UNLESS WITH THE FURTHER WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE MORNINGTON PENINSULA SHIRE COUNCIL. •VARYING THE BUILDING ENVELOPE DIAGRAM

A PERMIT IS REQUIRED UNDER THE FOLLOWING CLAUSE OF THE PLANNING SCHEME:

PLANNING SCHEME CLAUSEMATTER FOR WHICH A PERMIT IS REQUIRED

Clause 43.02-2 (DDO3) Construct a building or construct or carry out works

Clause 43.02-2 (DDO3)Construct a fence

Clause 52.02 (Easement,Create, vary or remove an Restrictions and reserves)easement or restriction

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 23 MARCH 2026

How can I find out more? You may look at the application and any documents that support the application free of charge at: www.mornpen.vic.gov.au

You may also call (03) 5950 1010 to arrange a time to look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council. This can be done during office hours and is free of charge.

Privacy Notification: The personal information provided in an objection is collected for planning purposes in accordance with the Planning & Environment Act 1987 (the Act). The public may view an objection in accordance with Section 57 of the Act whilst the planning application is current

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMI APPLICATION DETAILS

Application reference number: P25/1989

Applicant name:

PRIME SURVEYING AND LAND DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANTS

The Land affected by this application is located at: 1/2 & 2/2 MAINE STREET TOOTGAROOK

LOT 1 RP 14737 VOL 11003 FOL 698

LOT 2 RP 14737 VOL 11032 FOL 298

LOT CM RP 14737 VOL 12118 FOL 142

The application is for a permit to: VARY RESTRICTIVE COVENANT 1178130 ON COMMON PROPERTY ON PLAN OF STRATA SUBDIVISION 014737 VOL 12118 FOL 142 AND LOTS 1 & 2 ON PLAN OF STRATA SUBDIVISION 014737 VOL 11003 FOL 698 & VOL 11032 FOL298 BY DELETING THE WORDS “…COMPRISED IN ONE SINGLE-STORIED BUILDING.”

A permit is required under the following clauses of the planning scheme:

Planning Scheme Clause:Matters for which a permit is required

Clause 52.02Vary a restriction

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 18 MARCH 2026

How can I find out more? You may look at the application and any documents that support the application free of charge at: www.mornpen.vic.gov.au

You may also call (03) 5950 1010 to arrange a time to look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council. This can be done during office hours and is free of charge.

Privacy Notification: The personal information provided in an objection is collected for planning purposes in accordance with the Planning & Environment Act 1987 (the Act). The public may view an objection in accordance with Section 57 of the Act whilst the planning application is current

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION DETAILS

Application reference number: P26/0030

Applicant name:

PREMJEET SINGH FAMILY INVESTMENTS PTY LTD

The Land affected by this application is located at: 57 & 59 BAXTER-TOORADIN ROAD BAXTER and 2 EATON PLACE BAXTER

LOT 12 LP 112707 VOL 9099 FOL 055

LOT 13 LP 112707 VOL 9099 FOL 056 LOT 54 LP 94452 VOL 8938 FOL 761

The application is for a permit to: VARY THE FOLLOWING RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS BY DELETING (A) AND (E):

•COVENANT G598025 AFFECTING THE LAND DESCRIBED AS LOT 12

PS112707 VOL 09099 FOL 055

•COVENANT G651321 AFFECTING THE LAND DESCRIBED AS LOT 13

PS112707 VOL 09099 FOL 056

•COVENANT E957773 AFFECTING THE LAND DESCRIBED AS LOT 54

PS094452 VOL 08938 FOL 761

A permit is required under the following clauses of the planning scheme:

PLANNING SCHEME CLAUSE:

MATTERS FOR WHICH A PERMIT IS REQUIRED

CLAUSE: 52.02 CREATE. VARY OR REMOVE AN EASEMENT OR RESTRICTION

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 23 MARCH 2026

How can I find out more? You may look at the application and any documents that support the application free of charge at: www.mornpen.vic.gov.au

You may also call (03) 5950 1010 to arrange a time to look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council. This can be done during office hours and is free of charge.

Privacy Notification: The personal information provided in an objection is collected for planning purposes in accordance with the Planning & Environment Act 1987 (the Act). The public may view an objection in accordance with Section 57 of the