The Local Paper. Peninsula-Frankston-Greater Dandenong-Cardinia-Casey Edition. Wed., May 13, 2026

WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2026

‘THINK LOCAL FIRST AT FRANKSTON’

■ Frankston City business, producers and service providers are gearing up for the return of Think Local month to inspire and encourage spending within tghe municipality.

Think Local month, running throughout June, encourages businesses and community members to consider what products and services exist within Frankston City first, before purchasing, making a reservation, or engaging a business from surrounding local government areas.

Frankston City Council in collaboration with the Frankston Business Chamber are driving the initiative, with a focus on supporting the small and medium-sized businesses in the area to strengthen the local workforce and economic development.

There are more than 40,000 businesses registered in Frankston City – of those 98 per cent are small businesses, each of which have an annual turnover of less than $10M.

By supporting those entities, locals can play their part to make Frankston City the best place to live, work, play, learn and invest.

“Whether it be Frankston, Seaford, Carrum Downs, Skye, Langwarrin, Langwarrin South, Karingal, Frankston North or South, our city has everything you need right here,” said a City representative.

Frankston Mayor, Cr Sue Baker, said local businesses are the heart of the economy.

SPECIAL MEETING TO VOTE ON MAYOR

■ A new Mayor for the Mornington Peninsula Shire will be elected soon at a special council meeting, following the resignation of Anthony Marsh, who won the Nepean state by-election on May 2. Deputy Mayor Cr Paul Pingiaro is currently acting as Mayor.

On a two-candidate preferred vote bais, Mr Marsh (Liberal) won 25,842 votes (63.57 per cent), ahead of independent Tracee Hutchison with 14,810 votes (36.43 per cent).

First preference votes were:

■ HERCUS, Darren. Pauline Hanson's One Nation. 9941. 24.52%

■ SMITH, Reade. Affordable Housing Now

– Sustainable Australia Party. 721. 1.78%

■ HEALY, Sianan. The Greens. 3805. 9.38%

■ MARSH, Anthony. Liberal. 15686. 38.69%

■ WILDE, Milton. End Mass Immigration

– Reform AU. 166. 0.41%

■ ANGELICO, Peter. Libertarian. 506. 1.25%

■ HUTCHISON, Tracee. 8530. 21.04%

■ THOMPSON, Renee. Legalise Cannabis 1192. 2.94%.

Mr Marsh will soon be sworn in as MLA for Nepean. He served as Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor for two years.

Mr Marsh has served as a Commissioned Officer in the Air Force, ran his own small business for over 10 years, and served as the Mayor. He went to school locally, at Dromana Secondary College.

■ The City of Casey and Chisholm Institute last week brought together leaders from across government, education and the healthcare industry, to a Health and Education Roundtable designed to foster collaboration and address challenges across the local health sector.

The forum attracted representatives from some of Australia’s largest and smallest healthcare organisations for open conversations on workforce shortages, training and employment pathways, service pressures and the benefits of developing close partnerships between health, education and industry to cater to real workforce needs.

City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said healthcare plays a vital role in the everyday lives of Casey residents.

Manufacturers and installers of high-quality uPVC double glazed windows and doors Energy efficient Enhanced security Reduce Noise

designs Maintenance free For a free measure and quote - Call Mark 0468 737 565 www.thewindowcentre.com.au

RACV funds for Hester Hornbrook Local Briefs

Hester Hornbrook Academy

■ RACV has delivered a significant investment to community partner Hester Hornbrook Academy as they settled on land for their new campus in Dandenong

The funds will help provide a purpose-built learning environment for young people who have become disengaged from traditional school settings. The new campus is expected to open at the start of the 2028 school year, with RACV also providing ongoing financial and in-kind support over three years to help students access their senior secondary certificate, VETiS, and develop future positive pathways.

Hester Hornbrook Academy supports young people through its HOPE – Healing Oriented Program of Education – that addresses both academic and holistic needs, combining classroom learning with wraparound wellbeing support.

RACV Managing Director and CEO Neil Taylor said the partnership builds on a longstanding relationship with the organisation.

"We have worked with Hester Hornbrook for a number of years now and we hope that this new partnership will further allow many more young people in the Greater Dandenong area to get a better start in life”, Mr Taylor said.

“RACV employs a significant number of people at our Noble Park site, and we hope that this new school will see us offer employment pathways to students.”

Beyond the new campus, RACV will help expand student access to excursions, job fairs, industry placements, and structured workplace experiences designed to build confidence, skills, and long-term employability.

The partnership will support the development of tailored vocational programs including Certificate II and III qualifications, apprenticeships, and short courses across industries such as hospitality, IT, and skilled trades – designed to meet students where they are and support their transition into work.

“The investment has the potential to transform outcomes for young people in the region previously Not in Education, Employment, or Training – a cohort particularly concentrated in Greater Dandenong given the area's socioeconomic profile,” said a RACV representative.

Hester Hornbrook Academy’s Executive Principal Sally Lasslett said the partnership would deliver meaningful change for students and their communities.

"RACV is an organisation that shares our values and commitment to creating pathways for young people facing disengagement from education," Ms Lasslett said.

"This partnership will make a tangible difference in the lives of our students and their communities."

Thousands of trees

■ Thousands more trees, greener streets and stronger, practical action on climate change are at the heart of the City of Casey’s draft 2026/27 Budget and Annual Action Plan, the Council says.

City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said a major focus this year is expanding green spaces and tree canopy across the city.

KEYSBORO. ARSON ARRESTS

■ Detectives from the Arson and Explosives Squad have arrested three males as part of their investigation into an arson at an alcohol storage facility in Keysborough.

With assistance from Operation Eclipse and Crime Investigation Units from North West Metro, three search warrants were executed on Thursday morning (May 7) at addresses in Melbourne’s north.

Three males have been taken into custody and will now be interviewed by detectives. They include:

■ A 17-year-old male from the Hume area

■ A 16-year-old from the Hume area, and

■ A 15-year-old from the Hume area.

The activity follows an incident where emergency services were called to the large blaze at an alcohol distribution centre on Atlantic Drive about 10.45p on Thursday, April 23.

The building and its contents were completely destroyed.

New Kia for Pearcedale man

■ Spoiler alert ... On Monday (May 18)

30-year-old Dillon Rajendran from Pearcedale will achieve a major milestone on the TippingPointAustralia TV program by winning a new car. This marks the first time a contestant has won a car in the show's history. Host Todd Woodbridge personally presented the vehicle to Dillon at Kia Mornington

25 years turning pages

■ For 25 years, a quiet kind of magic has been unfolding across the Mornington Peninsula community – one doorstep, one delivery, one conversation at a time.

The Home Library Service has been bringing books, audiobooks and companionship to residents who can’t easily visit the library themselves.

“For many borrowers, the service fills a gap that’s hard to describe until you feel it yourself,” said a Library representative.

“When getting out becomes difficult, the simple joy of browsing shelves, chatting over a shared story, or even just seeing a friendly face can slip away.

“That’s where our volunteers step in – not just as delivery drivers, but as listeners, companions and often friends.

“Today, our Home Library Service continues to provide free monthly deliveries to eligible residents across the Peninsula, carefully matched with volunteers who share similar interests.

“With training and support provided, volunteers become part of something genuinely special – helping to reduce social isolation while creating connections that matter.

“Sometimes, the most powerful stories aren’t the ones on the page. They’re the ones we create together.”

● ● This edition of The Local Paper covers Cardinia,. Casey, Frankston, Greater Dandenong and Mornington Peninsula municipalities.

Braeside fire: 2 charged

■ Detectives from Moorabbin Crime Investigation Unit have charged two men following an alleged arson in Braeside last year.

It is alleged a car was deliberately driven into the front of an automotive business on Tarnard Drive just before 4am on July 13.

No one was inside the building at the time.

The offenders allegedly set the building alight, dumped the vehicle at the scene and fled.

Following investigations into the incident, police arrested two men.

A 33-year-old Langwarrin man has been charged with 10 offences including criminal damage by fire (arson), theft of motor vehicle (x3), theft (x3) and burglary.

A 28-year-old Carrum Downs man has been charged with 11 offences in total, including criminal damage by fire (arson), theft of motor vehicle (x2), burglary and handle stolen goods.

They were both summonsed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on May 27.

Sustainable houses

■ Sustainable House Day is back, with people from across Melbourne opening their doors to share the upgrades they have done to their homes to become more sustainable, reduce bills or improve efficiency.

To be held on Sunday (May 17), the annual event showcases a diverse range of homes — from architect designed sustainable builds and retrofitted weatherboards to efficient apartments, all electric renovations and climate resilient rebuilds.

Each home shares honest, first-hand insights into what works in everyday living.

City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said Sustainable House Day is open to everyone, whether they own or rent, live in a house or apartment, or are just starting to explore ways to improve home comfort or reduce energy costs.

“There are many practical actions households can take to improve comfort and reduce their impact on the environment,” he said.

“Like many households in our community, I’ve been making changes at home over time — switching from gas to electric for heating, cooling and for hot water, installing an induction cooktop, adding solar panels and a rainwater tank and planting more in the garden.

“Sustainable House Day shows that there are practical, achievable options for homes of all types, and that learning from others in your community can make those steps feel much more accessible.”

Lynbrook winner

■ A hardworking Lynbrook man had declared his working days are numbered after pocketing more than $2 million in Tattslotto. He can look forward to $2,139,901.06. His winning 18-game QuickPick entry was purchased at Lynbrook Village News & Lotto

57 years. Since 1969.

Police Rounds

Wheelers Hill death

■ A man has died in hospital following a crash in Wheelers Hill last month.

Emergency services responded to reports a car crashed into a fence and retaining wall before subsequently hitting a tree on Shiralee Court just before 7pm on April 26.

The driver and sole occupant, an 81year-old Wheelers Hill man, was taken to hospital with serious injuries where he later died.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Stabbing at Carlton

■ Melbourne Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance following a stabbing in Carlton

It is believed a man was approached by an unknown offender on a footpath in Carlton Gardens near Carlton St about 11.35pm on Wednesday (May 6).

Police were told the 24-year-old Canadian national was stabbed in the hand.

He was taken to hospital with nonlife-threatening injuries.

The offender left the knife at the scene and fled on foot.

They were wearing dark baggy clothing and a hood covering their head.

Detectives are investigating the circumstances of the stabbing and believe it was a random, unprovoked incident at this stage.

Drink drivers caught

■ Warrnambool police are disappointed with local road user behavior after four drivers were allegedly caught drink driving.

Around 12.20am Thursday (May 7) officers were called to a single vehicle collision at Zeigler Pde and Princes Hwy, Allansford.

Investigators believe the learner driver, and only occupant of the car, lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a safety barrier.

He returned a positive breath test result at the scene and attended the station where he returned an alleged evidentiary result of 0.088.

The 24-year-old from NSW is expected to be charged with drink driving, learner driver fail to have accompanying driver and other traffic offences,

Around 1.20am officers observed a car go around a round-about at Fairy and Koroit Sts in the opposite direction.

They intercepted the car and spoke to a 41-year-old man from Warrnambool. He underwent a preliminary breath test and returned to the station for an evidentiary test where he returned an alleged reading of 0.160.

His car was impounded with towing costs and he is expected to be charged with drink driving.

To cap the evening off officers intercepted a learner driver on Raglan Parade

He underwent a breath test and returned a positive result.

His accompanying driver also underwent a roadside test and also returned a positive result.

Both attended the station and the learner driver, a 20-year-old man from Hoppers Crossin g, returned an alleged reading of .133.

The fully licensed passenger, a 24year-old man from Mickleham, returned an alleged reading of .125.

Both are expected to be charged with drink driving and other offences.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2026

POLICE PUT BRAKES ON WESTERN HOONS

■ Westgate Highway Patrol officers are cracking down on hoon drivers following a series of meets across the western suburbs.

Hundreds of owners of vehicles allegedly linked to recent hoon meets were to be targeted during an operation on Saturday (May 9).

The aim of the operation is to remove unauthorised drivers and unsafe vehicles from the roads.

An investigation has been underway after police responded to reports of about 200 vehicles gathering on Truganina last month.

The first incident took place on Permas Way just before midnight on April 17, and again on Felstead Drive at approximately 10pm on April 19.

On both occasions, the group of hundreds dispersed immediately once police arrived to the area.

It’s believed the group were performing burnouts – emitting sparks and smoke –with spectators lining the streets to watch.

Inspections

Footage from the police vehicle arriving to Felstead Drive at about 10pm on April 19 has been released, in the hopes that anyone who has information about the identity of those involved can come forward to police.

Over 150 owners of cars allegedly linked to these hoon meets have been instructed to present their vehicle for a roadworthy inspection under the Road Safety Act

Drivers will be checked to ensure they are authorised drivers, while cars will be checked for any major defects including mechanical faults, engine modifications and tyre issues.

Owners who don’t present their vehicle may have their registration suspended.

If defect notices are issued, owners are required to have those repaired or replaced.

Unsafe drivers

Westgate Highway Patrol Senior Sergeant Stephen O’Connell said: “We have a number of methods available to target hoons and remove unsafe drivers and vehicles from our roads.

“The margin for error at a hoon event is so small, let alone if dangerous burnouts and skids are being conducted in a car with defects.

“Our focus on stamping out these events will not stop – the minute you cross the line and engage in hoon activity, you won’t be able to hide from police.”

Organised crime, gangs targeted

■ Victoria Police has arrested almost 30 people and seized firearms, drugs, weapons and cash following a joint-agency operation targeting outlaw motorcycle gangs and organised criminal entities.

The operation focussed on the northeast of Victoria and southern New South Wales

During the multi-agency operation –which commenced at 6am on Monday (May 4) and concluded at 12 Noon on Friday (May 8) – Victoria Police hadexecuted a total of 13 warrants, including 21 Firearm Prohibition Order compliance searches and the service of a further five FPOs, making 29 arrests and laying over 40 charges.

Police seized three firearms – including a sawn off .22 – cannabis, cocaine, methylamphetamine, GHB, steroids, knuckle dusters, an ASP baton, a sword, a machete and a quantity of cash.

Some 68 vehicles were intercepted, with State Highway Patrol impounding seven vehicles for drug and impaired driving and conducting 65 preliminary roadside drug and alcohol tests.

Operation Blue Ember is a joint operation between Victoria Police’s VIPER Taskforce , local membersm and Raptor Squads in partnership with the Sheriff’s Office

WARRANTS OUT FOR KIANDRA

■ Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate Kiandra Nash

The 19-year-old woman is wanted on warrants for aggravated home invasion, internationally cause injury and breaching a condition of bail.

Nash is described as being approximately 172cm tall, with a thin build, blonde hair and facial piercings. She is known to frequent

the Prahran area and the eastern suburbs.

Investigators have released an image of Nash in the hope that someone may be able to provide information on her current whereabouts.

Anyone with information about her whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at www.crimestoppers vic.com.au

Local Briefs

Rider dies at Bright

■ Police are investigating a fatal crash in Bright last Friday afternoon (May 8). Emergency services were called to reports a motorcyclist crashed into a tree on Back Germantown Road at the intersection of Harpers Lane just after 3pm. The rider died at the scene.

Officers will investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash and prepare a report for the Coroner

Brunswick hit-run

■ Fawkner Highway Patrol are appealing for public assistance following a hitrun collision that left a pedestrian with serious injuries in Brunswick on Thursday (May 7).

Police have been told a woman was crossing Sydney Rd near Barkley St and had stopped in the middle of the road to wait for traffic to clear about 4.15pm. It is believed a small white Volkswagen hatch travelling north hit the woman and failed to stop, continued along Sydney Rd where the driver pulled over near Wilson Avenue and was last seen walking towards the railway station.

A 71-year-old Brunswick woman was taken to hospital where she was admitted with serious injuries.

Police seized the vehicle and are yet to locate and speak to the driver.

The driver is described as being aged in his 20s with dark hair and was wearing a black jacket and black shorts with a red stripe.

Investigators will release CCTV of a man that may be able to assist with their enquiries and are keen to speak to any witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Crash in Mt Waverley

■ Police are investigating a multi-vehicle collision in Mount Waverley on Wednesday afternoon (May 6).

It is understood a grey Honda accord sedan was driving erratically in-bound on the Monash Fwy , near the Huntingdale off-ramp about 2.35pm.

The vehicle drove over the median strip before crashing into two cars that were stationery in outbound traffic, and landing on its roof.

The occupants, a 17-year-old boy from Bayside and a 17-year-old boy from the Manningham area, were hospitalised with serious injuries. The pair were under police guard.

Officers have been told the Honda was travelling in convoy with a grey Hyundai hatchback.

The driver of the Hyundai , a 14-yearold boy from Bayside was also arrested at the scene.

The occupants of the two other cars were uninjured.

The Honda was stolen from Cranbourne on May 5, while the Hyundai was stolen from Noble Park North on May 4.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Essendon shooting

■ Detectives from the Armed Crime Squad are investigating following a nonfatal shooting in Essendon last Tuesday night (May 5).

Police were called to Nimmo St shortly before 7pm to reports a man had been shot. It is believed a number of males pulled up in a car while the 48year-old man was walking on Spencer St , before firing a number of shots.

ARIES (March 21 - April 20)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1-9-5-2

Lotto Numbers: 1-19-20-25-34-44

Your life could undergo major changes, and many people could relocate interstate or overseas. Happy news concerning your financial expectations is indicated. Your love life is in for a surprise or two.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 3-1-2-3

Lotto Numbers: 3-12-15-18-28-37

Worry could affect your health, so keep stress levels under control. As long as you remain tactful, you will gain by speaking your mind. A career opportunity is indicated, although you may have to work harder to stay ahead of the competition.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 4-2-2-4

Lotto Numbers: 4-11-13-22-29-31

Financial problems should begin to ease, bringing greater peace of mind about your future security. However, a problem with a workmate is possible if you are not diplomatic. Social invitations could bring pleasant surprises.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: Rose

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 3-1-4-3

Lotto Numbers: 3-11-12-24-34-43

Many will spend more time improving their appearance or personal environment. Some could find a real bargain for the home. Your intuition could be spot on, particularly when taking a calculated gamble.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 7-1-3-9

Lotto Numbers: 7-11-13-20-27-33

This marks the end of one phase of your life and the beginning of a happier one. Most will be a popular choice at social gatherings. Someone could confide in you and take you by surprise.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: Grey

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 6-2-3-4

Lotto Numbers: 12-23-31-39-40-42

Self-security will be important, and financial affairs will show improvement. Most agreements should be finalised successfully, and there is luck in property dealings.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Navy Blue

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 1-3-6-2

Lotto Numbers: 1-13-18-27-36-39

Surprises in career or business ambitions are indicated. Many will change paths quite successfully. Travel increases, and luck improves in both love and finances, with one influencing the other.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 5-2-4-7

Lotto Numbers: 5-13-24-31-34-43

Watch your temper. The wise will release tension before it builds too far. Health improvements and personal appearance could become important. Most will travel more extensively.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 2-3-7-2

Lotto Numbers: 2-11-18-37-38-41

Support from those who matter will increase, and self-confidence improves. A career offer could come as a surprise. Your love life should be happier and more relaxed, with travel also highlighted.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Burgundy

Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 9-3-2-6

Lotto Numbers: 9-18-30-32-33-42

You may encounter more trouble from what you say than what you do. Family members could cause tension. Travel should bring about a surprising event related to property. Financial security is looking stronger.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 1-5-7-4

Lotto Numbers: 6-15-16-22-34-40

Let things unfold naturally instead of insisting on your own way. Support for your causes can come from influential people. Your love life could bring the unexpected.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 8-1-4-8

Lotto Numbers: 8-14-26-35-44-45

You will have more self-confidence to sort out problems with others. Someone close could receive a career boost. Travel looks more interesting and potentially romantic.

POLICE INVESTIGATE

MELTON HIT-RUN

■ Melton Highway Patrol officers are appealing for public assistance following a hit-run collision that left a woman with serious injuries.

It is believed the victim was riding an e-scooter on Scott St when she was struck by a vehicle which was turning into Swan St about 12.20am on Sunday (May 10).

The car, a small white sedan, failed to stop at the scene and was last seen headed east on Swan St.

The woman, believed to be in her 40s, was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Humanity crimes

■ Two Australian women from Victoria have been charged by the Victoria Joint Counter Terrorism Team with crimes against humanity offences allegedly committed in Syria

The women, aged 53 and 31, were expected to face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Friday (May 8), after being arrested on arrival into Melbourne International Airport on Thursday by the Victoria JCTT

The 53-year-old woman was charged with:

■ Crimes Against Humanity – Enslavement,

■ Possess a Slave,

■ Use a slave,

■ Engage in slave trading.

These offences each carry a maximum penalty of 25 years’ imprisonment.

It will be alleged the woman travelled to Syria in 2014 with her husband and children, and was complicit in the purchase of a female slave for US$10,000, and knowingly kept the woman in the home.

The 31-year-old woman was charged with:

■ Crimes Against Humanity – Enslavement, and

■ Use a slave.

Both offences carry a maximum penalty of 25 years’ imprisonment.

It will be alleged the woman travelled to Syria in 2014 with her family and knowingly kept a female slave in the home.

The women were detained by Kurdish forces in March 2019 and held with other family mem-

bers in Al Roj Internally Displaced Persons camp.

AFP Assistant Commissioner Counter Terrorism

Stephen Nutt said operational planning for the potential return of individuals from the Middle East started in 2015 and later formalised under an overarching operation named Kurrajong

“ Australian JCTTs methodically investigated all Australians who travelled to declared conflict areas and will ensure those who are alleged to have committed a criminal offence are put before the courts,” Assistant Commissioner Nutt said.

“ JCTTs include some of the most experienced national security investigators and analysts in our country.

“This remains an active investigation into very serious allegations.”

Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Martin O’Brien said the safety of all Victorians remains paramount.

“ Victoria Police will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners and other agencies to ensure there is no risk to our local community,” Assistant Commissioner O’Brien said.

“We want to reassure all Victorians that anyone residing in our state who has committed serious criminal offences, including those returning from conflict areas, will be held to account.”

The Victoria

hundreds more rental homes approved, says the State Government.

Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny has approved almost 800 new Buildto-Rent homes in Docklands and Fitzroy : ■ 554 homes on La Trobe St, Docklands ■ 243 homes at 159–167 Johnston St, Fitzroy

The Docklands project will deliver a mix of studio to three-bedroom apartments next to Marvel Stadium , within walking distance of the CBD and well connected to public transport.

JCTT comprises the AFP, Victoria Police and ASIO

The priority for law enforcement is to ensure the safety of the community, and suspicious activity can be reported to the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400; or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Fire at Waverley

■ Fire Rescue Victoria responded to several Triple Zero (000) calls of a unit fire in Boyanna Road, Glen Waverley on Friday evening (May 8).

Crews arrived on scene within four minutes to find the unit heavily involved in fire so the response was escalated.

FRV crews wore breathing apparatus and to attack the fire and prevent it spreading to adjoining units.

All occupants safely evacuated and were assessed by Ambulance Victoria

The fire was deemed under control by 6.56pm and was contained to the kitchen and lounge areas.

Cause of the fire is not yet known but it will be investigated by FRV specialists.

Firefighters were to remain on scene to ensure the fire was fully extinguished.

Build to rent

■ Melbourne continues to lead the nation as the buildto-rent capital, with

The Fitzroy development will deliver a mix of studio to three-bedroom apartments, next to Johnston Street’s iconic strip of shops, close to trams, buses, and services.

Eligible build-torent developments completed and operational from January 2022 until December 2031 receive a 50 per cent land tax concession for up to 30 years and a full exemption from Absentee Owner Surcharge

Blaze at Port

■ Fire Rescue

Victoria crews responded to a building on fire in Port Melbourne at 4.48am on Wednesday (May 6), following multiple calls to Triple Zero (000) reporting a building fire.

Firefighters arrived on scene within three minutes to find a building full of smoke and escalated the response.

FRV crews donned breathing apparatus and made entry to find fire involved with 3 cars and heavy smoke filling the showroom. No occupants were present and the fire was deemed under control by 5.23am.

Cause of the fire is deemed to be suspicious, and it will be investigated by Victoria Police Arson Squad

$1.6m

■ The State Government has awarded a record 14 organisations supporting LGBTIQA+ Victorians with a $1.6 million investment to expand services across Victoria

● The Argus. May 12, 1951.

Black market

■ Last night an Argus reporter bought a bag of potatoes from a New Australian at a house in Kensington, and was offered seven tons if he could provide the transport to cart them away.

He paid £2/8/ for the 120-lb. bag - 6/ more than the legal price.

The man said he worked every night, so his potato sales are yielding about £700 a week.

The black marketeer said he had sold 50 bags of potatoes between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. at the same price.

He carried bags of potatoes quite openly from his house to cars in the street outside.

He took a thick wad of notes out of his pocket to pay change for the re porter's purchase.

"Are you sure these spuds are good?" the reporter asked.

"Keep your voice down!" the man warned, "or someone will hear you and put us in."

The black marketeer drove off in a truck at 9 p.m.

"Where to now?" the reporter asked. "Back to Emerald for another load," the man replied. "Come back here on Monday if you want some

Several people phoned TheArgus last ntellfc to report black market' potato sales.

The man said he could buy unlimited quantities in the city for £2/6/ a bag.

Leak to Red China

■ A new all-out campaign to smash Communism in Australia and help smash it overseas is planned by Mr. Menzies, Prime Minister.

The Federal Government will:

■ Stop the export of Australian goods to Red China. ■ Ask the State Premiers for power to deal with the Communist Party - and, if any one State refuses, appeal to the people for these powers in a referendum.

Federal Parliamentary draftsmen aré preparing drastic measures to prevent traffic in some Australian goods between Hong Kong and Communist China . During 1949-50, Australian goods valued at £6,848,589, reached Hong Kong, and the figure for the six months to December last was £2,377,440.

These exports included aircraft engines worth £190,147 and essential oils and chemicals worth £255,000.

Local Theatre

Quick Fix at Half Six

■ The marvellous Melbourne Symphony Orchestra , under Chad Kelly’s exemplary conducting, opened the concert at Hamer Hall with Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach’s Sinfonia in D Major (1775).

This was followed by Matthew Locke’s The Tempest: Curtain Tune and finally Beethoven’s Second Symphony.

Introduction to the program was provided by Daniel Corvai a, assisted by Auslan interpreter, Amber. The orchestra, with accompanying commentary from Chad Kelly , provided illuminating samples from the movements.

Departing from previous scores, Bach stipulated ‘independent parts for two flutes, two oboes, two horns and a bassoon’ plus ‘five string parts’.

He also ran the movements together in this Sinfonia – another innovation. Lower strings commence energetically with first violins hovering above. When the full orchestra enters, an exciting ‘conversation’ ensues before an exhilarating conclusion..

Matthew Locke’s The Tempest: Curtain Tune began languorously, the mournful strings building in tempo, with violent ‘crashing waves’ alternating with lyrical calm.

With ‘thunder’ from cellos and bass instruments, the sea tempest was vividly realised. Curtain Tune was included in the operatic adaptation of The Tempest, composed by Thomas Shadwell Many composers contributed to this opera - evidently a ‘crowd pleasing spectacle’ - which opened at Dorset Garden Theatre in 1674.

Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2 (1802) was the concert highlight. The first movement began slowly and sweetly with strings, becoming urgent and ending dramatically with flutes and drum rolls.

The second movement was beautifully graceful, alternating between majestic and melodic. The third movement was fast paced and joyful, while the dynamic last movement concluded triumphantly.

Daniel Corvaia informed us that the aim of 16th and 17th century music was to move the audience – to bewilder, seduce and shock. This was illustrated superbly with the Bach and Locke . The three pieces were beautifully complementary; the Bach slid effortlessly into the Locke, and Beethoven’s Second Symphony provided the exquisite climax. The works truly illustrated ‘Stürm und Drang’ or ‘Storm and Serenity’, under which heading they were grouped in the program.

Review by Juliet Charles

Pithy Paragraphs

■ The Australian Brandenburg Orchestra invites audiences on a dramatic journey through the heart of Baroque Italy with Italian Serenatas, a captivating concert experience featuring celebrated Italian baritone Renato Dolcini and led by Artistic Director Paul Dyer . Traversing the great cultural capitals of Naples, Rome, Venice and Florence , the program presents music of extraordinary passion, elegance and scale. Italian Serenatas will be performed at Melbourne Recital Centre from June 18-21.

■ Michael Paynter has his homecoming shows in Melbourne, four sold out shows at The Athenaeum kicking off Friday (May 15) as part of his The Great Australian Songbook national tour.

■ The Australian Children’s Music Foundation has officially opened entries for the 24th Annual National Songwriting Competition . As Australia’s largest free songwriting competition for school-aged children, the NSC is a vital vocational launchpad.

■ The Glass Menagerie invites you into a poetic and emotional story of dreams, memory and the fragile bonds that shape us. Tennessee Williams’s haunting memory play stars Alison Whyte in a contemporary revival of one of the most beloved and enduring works of the 20th century. At Southbank Theatre, The Sumner until June 5.

■ More than 2000 people have already signed for the Melbourne Memory Walk and Jog this Sunday (May 17).

NAT BASS STARS IN WAITRESS AT HER MAJ

■ Broadway’s smash-hit musical Waitress is playing at Her Majesty’s Theatre, Melbourne until July 19.

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

Rob Mills ( & Juliet, Wicked) is Dr Pomatter , and John Waters (Jesus Christ Superstar, Oliver!) plays Joe, the owner of the diner.

Keanu Gonzalez ( Annie, West Side Story) is Earl, Gareth Isaac (Elf the Musical, Mary Poppins) plays the role of Ogie, John Xintavelonis (The Wizard of Oz, The Lion King) plays Cal , and Annie Aitken (Guys & Dolls, The Sound of Music) is the Jenna Alternate.

The ensemble and swing cast comprises Cameron Boxall, Alexandra Cashmere, Ethan Jones, Dwayne P. Mitchell, Joseph Naim, Conor Neylon, Belle Parkinson, Emily Robinson, Elandrah Tavares, Bree Tipoki and Stephanie Wall.

Lulu is played by Stevie Denton (5 years old, from North Warrandyte), Lola Inman (5, from Langwarrin ), Ruby Marshall (5, from Port Melbourne ) and Evie Papas (6, from Templestowe).

Inspired by Adrienne Shelly’s film, and brought to life by a female-led creative team, including a book by screenwriter Jessie Nelson , an original score by Grammy winner Sara Bareilles ( Love Song, Brave) and direction by Tony winner Diane Paulus, Waitress is the Broadway hit about resilience, friendship and hope.

The musical tells the story of Jenna , small-town waitress and expert pie maker who longs to escape her rocky marriage and start again.

When a baking contest, an unexpected new romance and the support of her fellow waitresses offer her a taste of change, Jenna discovers that the secret ingredient to happiness might be closer than she ever imagined.

Melbourne Season: Until July 19. Cheryl Threadgold

Red Sky Morning

■ Being a strong advocate of Australian plays, Theatre Works performed award winning playwright Tom Holloway’s Red Sky Morning, rarely performed noting it has been over a decade since it was last performed and even then, that was Theatre Works

Now back on stage, a family of three, an ordinary Australian family in a small rural town each with a story to tell. A family at odds, the man and women wanting to reconnect while the daughter dreams about her first love.

On entering the theatre and on a slightly sloping ramp across stage were the mother and father standing motionless some distance apart, staring into the audience while the daughter sat on the floor, back

to the audience, almost motionless as composer Jack Burmeister’s haunting slow, variable tempo notes played out giving us time to contemplate on the three family members.

In heightening our expectation of their relationships, we pondered over what inner thoughts did they have, as we settled back ready for the narrative.

A sudden blackout gave way to a lengthy Acknowledgement of Country, which immediately broke into our mindset. While not mandatory, the Acknowledgement would have been far better had it been spoken prior into the foyer.

I expect the Director Lyall Brooks had a reason for breaking into the thought provoking opening sequence.

Each character had their own acting areas, delving into their narratives, often as three entwined monologues, well delivered, but at times some difficulty in us isolating the dialogue.

A strong performance by Father played by Alpha Kargbo who hit at the heart strings, defying depression, expressing his love for his daughter while concerned over his wife’s drinking and her breaking wind in bed.

Mother played by Emma Choy had a hard role to play, concerned about her body, emotionally dysfunctional, drinking to mask her daily life and understanding of her husband’s depression.

Impressive was the Daughter played by Izabella Day , a teenager with problems, a very engaging performance.

The team at Theatre Works would be pleased with the performance, just as we were.

Until May 16 at Theatre Works, St Kilda Bookings:theatreworks.org.au/2026/redsky-morning Review by Graeme McCoubrie

Reviews Sweet as pie

■ The Australian premiere of Waitress opened to an appreciative packed house at Her Majesty’s Theatre, where it can be enjoyed until July 19.

Audiences are greeted by a spectacular lattice cherry pie design covering the front curtain, with numerous racks of delicious-looking pies rotating in two tall glass towers standing either side.

The comedy-drama stage musical evolved from Adrienne Shelly’s 2007 film Waitress, inspiring Jessie Nelson’s book and stage show script, the original score and lyrics by Sara Bareilles , direction from Diane Paulus and choreography from Lorin Latarro . They became the first all-female creative team in Broadway’s history.

Expert pie-maker Jenna (Natalie Bassingthwaighte) works as a waitress at ‘ Joe’s Pie Diner’. Jenna’s amazing pies become an extension of her identity, even offering hope for escaping an abusive marriage with Earl (Keanu Gonzalez) .

Jenna adores her friendship with fellow waitresses Becky (Gabriyel Thomas) and Dawn (Mackenzie Dunn) , endearing diner owner Joe (John Waters), and charming obstetrician, Dr Pomatter (Rob Mills)

While the narrative creates awareness of various current societal issues, it risks appearing to normalise unethical/immoral behaviour.

John Xintavelonis is Cal, the grumpy diner manager, while Gareth Isaac (Ogie) stops the show with his sensational rendition of Never Ever Getting Rid of Me

Natalie Bassingthwaighte (Jenna) expressively commands the stage, utilising her versatile acting and vocal skills. Another showstopper was Jenna’s emotional song She Used to be Mine

Personable Rob Mills (Dr Pomatter) delights with his masterful singing, while Gabriyel Thomas (Becky) and Mackenzie Dunn (Dawn) deliver topnotch performances.

Musical Director Geoffrey Castle’s terrific onstage band provides atmosphere and great backing for the beautiful vocals/harmonies.

Waitress showcases the splendid multi-talents of local performers, including the versatile Ensemble, which as a Greek Chorus, whimsically conveys Jenna’s subconscious thoughts.

Personality-plus young Stevie Denton (Lulu) was an opening night scenestealer. Young performers also portraying Lulu are Lola Inman, Ruby Marshall and Evie Papas.

In the finale, the aroma of baked pie wafts through the theatre - a delicious ending to a warm show with varying messages.

Performance Season: Until July 19

Venue: Her Majesty’s Theatre, Exhibition St, Melbourne.

Bookings: waitressthemusical.com.au Review by Cheryl Threadgold

Encore auditions

■ Encore Theatre: Steel Magnolias (by Robert Harling), May 31 from 1.30pm, June 2 from 7pm at Fleigner Hall, 31 Highland Ave, Oakleigh East. Director: Susan Rundle. Audition bookings: Trybooking. Cheryl Threadgold

Jersey Boys by PLOS

■ PLOS Musical Productions will present Jersey Boys from July 24 to August 1 at the Frankston Arts Centre.

The musical tells the true story of the 1960s American pop band Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons and features all their hits including Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Walk Like A Man, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Beggin', December, 1963 (Oh What a Night) and more.

The talented performers of PLOS Musical Productions are supported by dedicated teams working in all areas behind the scenes, including Lighting, Sound, Musicians, Make Up, Costumes, and Staging Teams, all committed to achieving quality theatre.

Tickets for Jersey Boys are now on sale at the Frankston Arts Centre

Performance Season: July 24 - August 1

Venue: Frankston Arts Centre

Bookings:artscentre.frankston.vic.gov.au/Whats-On/Search-All-Events/PLOS-Jersey-Boys-2026 Phone 9784 1060 Cheryl Threadgold

● ● The National Institute of Dramatic Art celebrated internationally acclaimed actor and alum Sarah Snook and iconic Australian performer and advocate Sigrid Thornton, with Honorary Degrees at its Class of 2025 graduation ceremony.

Observations

When Lemons Give You Life

■ What can you do when life seems to have lost its appeal?

Anna Johnston’s latest noel, When Lemons Give You Life, delves into this question through the character of retired Michelin -star chef Griff Barlow , who finds himself in an aged care home where the food is well below his standards.

But rather than giving up , Griff hatches a plan to sneak into the facility kitchen at night to bake himself one last tart, and that reawakens his interest in food.

Soon he is regularly using the kitchen at night to create treats for himself and fellow residents of the Sunny Glen Aged Care Facility.

Griff’s relationship with his sister Lisa is a fractured one, although she dutifully visits. Lisa is dealing with a new ADHD diagnosis and embarking on a new romance, so there is lots going on in her life, but there are secrets between the siblings that threaten to boil over before they hopefully discover a recipe for forgiveness.

Anna Johnston uses her own life as a starting point for her novels. She was about to become a doctor when her grandfather entered aged care, so she changed careers and became the social support coordinator at his nursing home.

Anna says she has written When Lemons Give you Life as an antidote to despair.

“It’s ultimately about rediscovering joy when life has lost its flavour, and how far someone might go for those they love,” Anna explains.

Anna loves cooking and wanted to write about how food can restore other things than hunger.

“In my work with older people, I witnessed how preparing and sharing lovingly prepared food could bring back memory, identity and a sense of purpose when so much else has been lost,” Anna says.

When Lemons Give You Life is published by Penguin and available online at on bookstores. Julie Houghton

Flashes

■ A young Mebourne resident achieved an extraordinary feat by securing a Kids World Record for Fastest Time to Solve a 10x10 Cube on Friday (May 8).

Vivaan has loved solving Rubik’s cubes since he was four years old, is passionate about dinosaurs, and dreams of becoming a palaeontologist and discovering new species one day.

■ The Hunchback of Notre Dame is showing at the National Theatre, St Kiklda, from May 15-30. Director: Shaun Kingma , Musical Director: David Clausen-Wisken , Choreographer Melanie Ott , with Assistant Director Amy Bryans and Assistant Musical Director Jessica Sun

■ The Children's International Film Festival returns in June and July with 30 kids' films from around the world.

■ An industry preview of TheSheepskin Suite at Melbourne Design Week, taking place today (Wed., May 13) from 1pm at The Salon, Abbotsford Convent

Meet the cast of Stella

■ The story of Miles Franklin will be told in the forthcoming production of Stella, which debuts at Monash University's Alexander Theatre from June 12-20 .

The production features Geraldine Hakewill ( Ms Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries, Wakefield, Wanted), Johanna Allen (Phantom of the Opera, The Sound of Music, Sweeney Todd), Shubshri Kandiah (Cinderella, Aladdin, Fangirls, Beauty and the Beast), Joe Kosky (Play That Goes Wrong, School of Rock, Kinky Boots) and Kaya Byrne (ComeFromAway, A Christmas Carol, Groundhog Day The Musical).

Literary icon Miles Franklin’s life, marked by poverty, entrenched sexism, personal loss and the upheaval of two world wars, has until now been overshadowed by the attention on her debut novel MyBrilliantCareer and the literary awards that carry her name - the Miles Franklin Award and The Stella Prize

Seven years in the making, this new production draws on Franklin’s sharp, witty and distinctive voice, weaving her own words into the piece, balancing humour and heart.

A genre-spanning score moves from Australian and Irish folk and bush ballads through to salsa, neoclassical, pop, punk rock and classic musical theatre, capturing the energy, resilience and adventurous spirit of one of Australia’s most iconic literary figures.

In keeping with Stella Miles Franklin’s own creative ethos of making art with limited resources, a cast of five never leaves the stage, bringing Stella’s epic life journey to life through multiple character and costume changes.

Seven live musicians will also accompany the action, their on-stage presence adding to the sense of the work unfolding in real time.

Director Julia Robertson leads the creative team, alongside musical director Vicky Jacobs and book writer, composer and lyricist Monique diMattina, with set design by Nick Fry , costume by Isla Shaw, sound by David Letch and lighting by Sidney Younger. Together, they bring the extraordinary life of Stella Miles Franklin to the stage.

The premiere of Stella is included on the VCE Theatre Studies curriculum.

Performance Dates: June 12 - 20

Venue: Alexander Theatre, The Ian Potter Centre of Performing Arts, Monash University, Clayton Booking: stellathemusical.com

Tickets: $40-$85

Game. Set. Match.

■ Megan Wilding’s Game. Set. Match is almost too clever in its mixture of subject matter and form.

It seemingly begins as a romantic comedy eliciting much laughter but pivots to a revenge tragedy silencing the audience in the process.

It touches on social assumptions, indigenous inequality, misogyny, privilege and, finally, paedophilia.

These disparate strands do converge and make for a complete picture, the audience having been lured into Wilding’s web in the process.

Joshua (Rick Davies) has just missed the wake after his mother’s funeral. He

clearly has issues. He disturbs Ray (Megan Wilding) who is in the process of cleaning up. The misdirection here comically teases out the aforesaid assumptions but with a childish innocence signified by a playground ‘pinky-swear’ where the intertwining of each person’s little finger suggests promises of unity and truth.

The ensuing romantic dalliance in a bar and drug use in the toilet, brilliantly evoked in a set ( Isla Shaw) that is an engineering delight of moving panels and rostrum, sets up the potential of a sex filled evening complete with role play and bondage.

And this is where the malevolent undertone finally comes to the fore. There are repressed truths that can now be finally revealed after the passing of Joshua’s mother.

The conduct and behaviour suppressed on the strength of a ‘pinky-swear’ can now be brought to light. The result is quite shocking. The comic nonsense of a computer tennis game is juxtaposed with the physical dismemberment of a little finger releasing the truth for all to see.

Wilding plays into the comic potential of her character with an ebullience that is disarming. Was she serious when she said she had a gun in her bag?

Davies finds a balance in his character between being directionless and opportunism. Together they work the misdirection until the shattering ending that leaves the audience with questions about justice and ethics. Can one ever atone for the past? In the end, no one is innocent.

Until May 23 at Malthouse

Bookings: malthousetheatre.com.au/ whats-on/season-2026/game-set-match Review by David McLean

The Cottage

● ● ● ● (Back row) Callum Beale, Peter Murdoch, (Front row) Jacinta Howden, Gilbert Gauci, Kate Lawson and Jessica Demasi rehearse The Cottage .

■ Peridot Theatre Company presents the comedy TheCottage from May 22-31 at the Clayton Theatrette, Cooke St, Clayton.

Written by Sandy Rustin and directed by Steve Saul , the story tells of Sylvia and Beau enjoying their annual tryst in an English country cottage, blissfully happy in their moment of togetherness … until their spouses arrive.

What happens next may not be quite what they – or the audience - would expect.

The Cottage is described as 'a romantic comedy of manners with a slightly dark twist, in which the standard clichés simply refuse to follow the paths you expect.'

Please note that this play contains gunshots).

Performance Details: May 22-31

Venue: Clayton Theatrette, Cooke St., Clayton.

Bookings: peridot.com.au/book-a-show or 0429 225 334. Cheryl Threadgold

Shows

■ Bairnsdale Production Line Theatre Co. Ltd: &Juliet Until May 17 at The Forge Theatre, 80 McKean Street, Bairnsdale. Director: Casey Davidge and Shawna Bartlet. Bookings: eastgippsland.vic.gov.au/leisure/whatson-and-buy-tickets

■ Eltham Little Theatre: A Tomb with a View (by Norman Robbins) Until May 16 at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Rd., Research. Director: Karim Shaker. Bookings: elthamlittletheatre.org.au/

■ The Mount Players: Mr Bailey’s Minders (by Debra Oswald) Until May 24 at the Mountview Theatre, 56 Smith St., Macedon. Director: Sonja Prater. Bookings: themountplayers.com

■ CLOC Musical Theatre: The Hunchback of Notre Dame, May 15-30 at the National Theatre, St Kilda. Director: Shaun Kingma, Musical Director: David Clausen-W isken, Choreographer Melanie Ott. Bookings: cloc.org,au

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: The Other Place (by Sharr White) Until May 16 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Director: Barry O’Neill. Bookings: mordialloctheatre. com.au

■ Williamstown Musical Theatre Company: Company – A Musical Comedy (Stephen Sondheim) Until May 23 at Altona City Theatre, 115 Civic Pde., Altona. Bookings: wmtc.org.au

■ Essendon Community Theatre: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (by John Heimbuch and Jon Ferguson) May 21 –30 at the Bradshaw St. Theatre, Bradshaw St., West Essendon. Directors: Claire Benne & Nathalie Fo. Bookings: essendontheatrecompany.com.au

■ BottledSnail Productions: Witness for the Prosecution (by Agatha Christie) May 21 – May 30 at the Old Magistrates' Court, Old Melbourne Gaol, 377 Russell St., Melbourne. Director: Nicky NevilleJones. Bookings: bottledsnail.com/ events/2026/5/21/witness.

■ The 1812 Theatre: The Ladykillers (by Graham Linehan) May 21 – June 13 at The 1812 Theatre, 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Susan Rundle. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au

■ Peridot Theatre: The Cottage (by Sandy Rustin) May 22 – 31 at the Clayton Community Theatre, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: Steve Saul. Bookings: peridot.com.au

■ Beaumaris Theatre: Two Ladies (Nancy Harris) May 22 – June 6 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Adam Rafferty. Bookings: beaumaristheatre.com.au

■ Melton Performing Arts: Terry Pratchett’s Guards! Guards! (Adapted by Stephen Briggs) May 28 – 30 at the Melton Community Hall. Director: Josh Tooth. info@meltonpa.org.au

■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group: Kimberly Akimbo (by David Lindsay Abaire) May 28 – June 6 at the Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman St., Strathmore. Director: Drew Mason. Bookings: stagtheatre@outlook. com or 0419505231

■ Babirra Music Theatre: 42nd Street, May 29 – June 6 at The Round, 397 Whitehorse Rd., Nunawading. Director: Alan Burrows: Musical Director: Marty Macaulay; Choreographer: Sue Lewis. Bookings: babirra.org.au

■ Hills Act Theatre Company: Away (by Michael Gow) May 30 at 7.30pm and May 31 at 2pm at The Memo, 2/38 Symons St Healesville. Bookings: Culture tracks.info. Bookings: 1300 368333.

Auditions

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Crimes of the Heart (by Beth Henley) May 17 and 18 7pm to 9pm at 36 Turner Ave., Rosanna. Director: James Antonas. Enquiries: htc.org.au

■ The Mount Players: After-Light (Zachary Vanstone) May 16 at 10am and May 21 at 7pm at the Mountview Theatre, 56 Smith St., Macedon. Directors: Tom Foster and Zachary Vanstone. Audition bookings: mountplayers president@gmail.com

■ The 1812 Theatre: A Murder is Announced (by Agatha Christie) May 24 at 7pm and May 26 at 7.30pm at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Steve Saul. Audition enquiries: taul62@yahoo.com.au or 0414 733 268.\

The Magic Pudding Rourke’s Reviews Reviews

Juliet Letters

■ The Juliet Letters were brought to life in a collaboration by Elvis Costello with the Brodsky Quartet, which was released back last century in 1993.

Costello is known as an original pop-punk voice in the late 1970s, creating many works that fell between pop and classical.

The Brodsky Quartet, a highly talented string quartet from Middlesbrough, England , formed in 1972 by a group of young musicians, naming themselves after the Russian violinist Adolph Brodsky , have since become internationally respected for their traditional classical repertoire.

A professor based in Verona, Italy , took it on himself to reply to letters that were addressed to Shakespeare’s Juliet Capulet, and so from the early 1930s, The Juliet Club (Club di Giuletta) has been receiving thousands of letters worldwide from people seeking love advice.

The volunteer Secretaries of Juliet , work to reply to every single letter.

Melbourne string quartet

The Crossing Machine , founded in 2018 by Marianne Rothschild (violin 1) has felt The Juliet Letters was due for a refresh, so in collaboration with vocalist Jordan Z, have fully recorded The Juliet Letters for release later this year.

At fortyfivedownstairs we were treated to a one night performance in preparation for an official release.

With 20 songs, the quartet provided some exceptional backing and showed their dexterity being in complete command of the work with Marianne Rothschild, Matthew Rigby (violin 2) Margaret Butcher (viola) and Charlotte Jacke (cello).

While all stood tall, Rigby and Jacke provided some notable solo pieces.

Jordan Z is no Costello and at times the clarity was not there with some struggles in his articulation. No doubt the recorded work will provide a more coherent performance.

While the first half performance of 13 songs had a good mix, at times melancholy, the second half with Romeo’s Séance and I Thought I Would Writ to Juliet, in particular lifted the tempo andn provided more scope for both

the quartet and vocalist. Look out for the release later this year of The Juliet Letters by The Crossing Machine - you should not be disappointed.

Review by Graeme McCoubrie

Romanov Secret

■ Surf Coast author Chrissie Bellbrae presented a delightful evening at Beaumaris Theatre to introduce her new novel The Romanov Secret and to share stories of her research and other interesting experiences while writing and publishing the book.

Hot on the trail of Chrissie's debut novel, The Florentine Quilt, The Romanov Secret tells of a celebrated Australian artist's painting holding clues to long-held family secrets and lives under threat, long after the fall of the Russian Empire

Chrissie's new book was inspired by a letter written by three sisters at boarding school to their mother, more than 80 years ago.

In a remarkable twist of serendipity, the letter was discovered by Chrissie's best friend inside a script in a theatre company's archives on the opposite side of Melbourne - written on the letterhead of the school they both also attended.

When the letter mentioned a lucky pin, Chrissie's writer's imaginings led her to a Fabergé ladybird brooch. She was inspired to explore the dynamics within a family, the skewed perceptions of childhood and the inconsistencies in what is understood or perceived.

The House of Fabergé - the Romanovs - the 1980s - a family feud - it was difficult for Chrissie to resist the attraction.

With help from the school communications team and archivist, Chrissie recently discovered the sisters were boarders in 1924.

She is now trying to connect with remaining members of the family and is eager to put out the call to connect with them.

The Romanov Secret is available from Amazon chrissiebellbrae.com

Cheryl Threadgold

■ Victorian Opera presents its adaptation of Norman Lindsay’s classic The Magic Pudding from May 15-30 across metropolitan Melbourne at The Round (Nuna-wading), Darebin Arts Centre and Bunjil Place (Narre Warren) as well as available to livestream on-demand in late May.

Lindsay’s classic Australian children’s book has enchanted generations with its cast of characters: Albert the Pudding - a magical yet cantankerous pudding that can change flavours and never runs out, the adventurous koala Bunyip Bluegum , gruff sailor Bill Barnacle , steadfast emperor penguin Sam Sawnoff , and the mischievous pudding thieves Patrick the Possum and Watkin Wombat

More details: victorianopera.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

The Girl On The Train

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company’s latest production, the psychological thriller The Girl on the Train, is a sell-out and easy to see why.

Based on the bestselling novel by Paula Hawkins and the film by DreamWorks , adapted by Rachel Wagstaff and Duncan Abel , The Girl on the Train played at Heidelberg Theatre until May 9.

Audiences were assured of quality entertainment at Heidelberg Theatre Company shows and The Girl on the Train is no exception.

Rachel , an unemployed divorcee with low self-esteem and alcohol issues, fantasises daily about a happy couple seen through her train window who she believes epitomises the ‘perfect’ life she could have had.

When the woman, later revealed as Megan, suddenly disappears, Rachel turns sleuth, becoming embroiled in a police investigation and uncovering dark truths in her own life.

Under Deborah Fabbro’s expert direction, the play keeps the audience on edge throughout.

The clever set design by Janine Evans comprises a huge train window frame, with smaller performance areas either side.

Projected images on side walls depict destinations and tunnels. while also adding atmosphere is lighting by Michael Rowe and sound by John Rowe

The fine cast excels at portraying their characters.

Summer Bowen is outstanding as Rachel , impressively switching between her moods.

Chris Mentor skilfully portrays Rachel’s manipulative ex-husband, Tom , while Jordyn Grubisic as Tom’s elegant second wife Anna , gradually evokes sympathy for her difficult situation.

Tam Balucan as Megan , the girl seen from the train, well-captures her colourful appeal and vulnerability, while Wayne Gleeson proficiently steers his abusive character Scott to remain the audience’s prime suspect.

Angelo Snell is most convincing as therapist Kamal, another suspect, sustaining his health professional persona.

Stephanie Powell’s cool, unfazed performance as Detective Gaskill adds credibility, providing relief from the more volatile goings on.

There is a message for all when Rachel realises that appearances can be deceptive.

Congratulations to Heidelberg Theatre Company on another top show.

Performance Date: Until May 9

Venue: 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna Bookings: htc.org.au

Review by Cheryl Threadgold

Hokum

■ (M). 101 minutes. Now showing in cinemas.

After impressing horror fans with Caveat (2020) and Oddity (2024), Irish film-maker Damian McCarthy returns with what is definitely his most accessible film to date, and audiences should have a ripping good time at the cinema.

Adam Scott stars as Ohm Bauman , a successful, Stephen King style American author who is feverishly trying to perfect the ending of his latest novel, the final entry in a trilogy.

A heavy drinker, Bauman is an extremely bitter man, affected by his family history.

Bauman decides to travel to Ireland and to the hotel where his parents stayed many years ago, wanting to scatter their ashes under a huge redwood tree (as imposing as the one in Poltergeist), seen in a photo of his mother.

On arrival, the author meets good-natured staff member Fiona (Florence Ordesh) , fanboy bellboy Alby (Will O’Connell) and manager Mal (Peter Coonan) , along with local oddball Jerry (David Wilmot).

Bauman will discover that this hotel is filled with ghostly horrors.

Like his previous films, writer/director McCarthy doesn’t rush into throwing scares and jumps at moviegoers, but instead, quietly and meticulously creates a palpable atmosphere that is increasingly filled with dread and menace, waiting for the right moment to jolt and frighten.

He also cares about his characters. The ending Bauman is sweating over becomes a nice metaphor for what he is dealing with personally.

Scott is terrific, making a cruel, broken person compelling, and as the story unfolds, approachable, even likeable.

Ordesh is excellent as Fiona, and is the perfect counterbalance to her guest’s overt cynicism.

The whole cast is great, and there is a strong, at times very funny, Irish sense of humour.

Hokum is beautifully crafted, from Colm Hogan’s cinematography, Joseph Bishara’s music score, Til Frohlich’s production design and Brian Philip Davis’s editing.

There is however a familiarity to the endeavour that, for me, prevented Hokum from reaching the same heights as Oddity (****1/2) did, and probably also Caveat (****).

The way in which McCarthy frames his scares here, reminded me of Takashi Shimizu’s influential, genuinely scary 2002 film, Ju-on: The Grudge, so unfortunately, I found each potential jolt predictable.

Despite this, there is a weight to the horror that makes it stand out from the crowd. Hokum will delight those looking for a tense, edge-of-the-seat night out at the movies, and if seen with a big crowd, could very much involve a few screams.

If you haven’t seen McCarthy’s other two movies, please seek them out.

RATING - ***½

Something Very Bad Is Going To Happen

■ (MA). Eight episodes. Now available on Netflix.

Being one of the very few people who didn’t take to Stranger Things, I was initially a little hesitant approaching this new Netflix series, which is produced by that series’ creators, The Duffer Brothers

These feelings remained during early scenes in episode one, as the two main characters become involved in situations and plot threads that have been seen in dozens of horror movies.

Those feelings quickly disappeared as creator Haley Z. Boston (Brand New Cherry Flavour) takes these, as well as numerous other genre tropes, and cleverly subverts them into something truly invigorating, funny and engaging.

Camila Morrone is wonderful as Rachel Harkin , a free, perceptive spirit who shackles herself with doubt due to what happened to her mother.

Rachel is going to marry nice guy Nicky Cunningham (Adam DiMarco), and the two are driving to Nicky’s remote, expansive family home.

Once there, Rachel sees she is marrying into a very strange family; mother Victoria (Jennifer Jason Leigh) , father Boris (Ted Levine) , brother Jules (Jeff Wilbusch) and sister Portia (Gus Birney).

Also there is Jules’s wife Nell (Karla Crome), who happens to be Nicky’s ex, and young son Jude (Sawyer Fraser)

During this final, frantic week before the big day, there will be plenty of chaos and confrontations, while Rachel will receive startling news of her own.

The writers thankfully walk a successful line between paying tribute to genre outings past, and playfully working those familiar beats into something very entertaining in its own right.

This puts the series in the same arena as Wes Craven’s excellent 1996 film, Scream

The show, however, is definitely not Scream-lite. Weronika Tofilska (Baby Reindeer), Lisa Bruhlmann (KillingEve,CastleRock,Servant) and Axelle Carolyn (TheHauntingOfBlyManor) direct with style and energy, moving the growing mayhem at a fast pace, and get superb performances from a well-chosen cast.

Morrone (The Night Manager, Gonzo Girl) commands the screen, taking a character who some people may see as abrasive and combative, and makes her utterly captivating.

Crome ( Lazarus, Toxic Town) also scores highly as Nell , with very sharp comic delivery, as does Wilbusch (The Little Drummer Girl).

The casting of Leigh, and inparticular Levine , is ingenious.

Everything leads to a very satisfying conclusion, especially the story arc involving Rachel.

This is a series where I would love to see a season two.

RATING - **** Aaron Rourke

Arrests over ISIS materials

■ Four Melbourne men have been charged after allegedly accessing and distributing ISIS propaganda online. Australian Border Force officers intercepted a Roxburgh Park man, now aged 20, and conducted a routine examination of his luggage at Melbourne International Airport on November 29, 2024, following his return to Australia on a flight from Turkey

During an examination of the man’s mobile phone, ABF officers located suspicious content, and the matter was reported to the AFP. The phone was later seized for further examination.

As part of ongoing inquiries, ABF officers intercepted a second Roxburgh Park man, now aged 21, at Melbourne International Airport on June 1 last year, and conducted a routine examination of his luggage ahead of his departure to Turkey

During an examination of the man’s mobile phone, ABF officers located suspicious content. The phone was subsequently seized by the AFP for further examination.

It will be alleged forensic analysis of the devices revealed the men had been sending, sharing and receiving suspected violent extremist material, which included images and videos of previous terrorist attacks and other ISIS propaganda.

As a result of further inquiries, the AFP’s National Security Investigations team in Victoria – with the assistance of the AFP Tactical Response Team and Victoria Police – ex-

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

■ Toomuc Recreation Reserve is brighter and more accessible following the completion of key upgrades that support local clubs and the wider users of the reserve.

cuted four search warrants at homes in the Melbourne suburbs of Roxburgh Park, Clyde South and Meadow Heights on Thursday (May 7).

At one of the Roxburgh Park properties, an AFP firearm was unintentionally discharged. No one was injured.

During the searches, investigators seized electronic devices and mobile phones, which will undergo forensic examination.

The two Roxburgh Park men, and two Clyde North men, aged 19 and 29, were arrested and each charged with possession of violent extremist material contrary to the Criminal Code

This offence has a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment.

The men appeared at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court, where three men were formally refused bail to re-appear at the same court on Friday (May 8).

The fourth was granted strict conditional bail and is expected to re-appear at the same court on July 30, 2026.

A fifth man, 21, was arrested at the Meadow Heights property and released pending further inquiries.

Investigations are ongoing, with assistance from the Victoria Joint Counter Terrorism Team

AFP Counter Terrorism Commander Paula Hudson said the National Security Investigations Team had moved to disrupt and intercept these individuals to keep our community safe.

■ Several years ago I rediscovered an old song titled The Finger of Suspicion by the English singer Dickie Valentine

I played it on 96.5FM and also in my radio segments on 3AW and 4BC . The song created a lot response from listeners.

4BC radio host, Ian Maurice, included it on his compilation CD, WhatisThatSong?

Ian said he fell in love with the song after we had aired it on his show. Does anyone remember The Finger of Suspicion or the fabulous singer, Dickie Valentine ?

Richard Maxwell was born in Marylebone, Londo n, in 1929. At the age of three he appeared in two films Lord Babs and Jack’s the Boy.

When his mother remarried he was given the name of Richard Bryce. His birth father was a singer and entertainer and it soon became obvious that young Richard had a beautiful singing voice.

He was 20 and working as a page boy at His Majesty’s Theatre, London , in 1949 when actor Bill O’Connor was appearing there in the stage production of Brigadoon Bill heard Richard sing and very kindly paid for singing lessons for him. He was signed to sing with the famous Ted Heath Band and changed his name to Dickie Valentine

Dickie sang with the band for many years and was a featured vocalist along with Lita Roza and Dennis Lotis

Dickie was also was very good at doing impersonations of the famous stars of the day. Dickie was with the Ted Heath Band

Whatever Happened to ... the Dickie Valentine

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

for five years before going solo. He began making recordings and his first hit song in 1953 All The Time and Everywhere sold over 100,000 copies.

In 1955 Dickie was England’s most popular singer with two great hit songs The Finger of Suspicion and Christmas Alphabet He married Elizabeth Flynn, who was a professional ice skater, in the Caxton Hall Registry Office and more than 4000 fans were there to get a glimpse of the newly weds.

Dickie went straight from the wedding to perform in a Royal Command Performance at The London Palladium

In 1956 he had his own television program The Dickie Valentine Show. In 1963 Dickie Valentine was playing the night clubs in Melbourne and appeared on the

Delo and Daly television show. He did a very funny sketch with Jonathan Daly –Jonathan was at the grand piano accompanying Dickie and kept interrupting the song and continually moving Dickie around so that Jonathan wasn’t being masked from the camera.

The style of music changed with the arrival of the Beatles in 1964 and in later years Dickie worked the smaller clubs.

Dickie Valentine was killed in a car crash in Wales on May 6, 1971, together with his pianist Sid Boatman and drummer Dave Pearson.

Dickie was only 41 years old. If you get a chance to hear a song by Dickie Valentine I am sure you will appreciate the talent of this wonderful English singer from a bygone era.

Kevin can be heard on 3AWThe Time Tunnel - 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

■ The pretensions, posing and presumptions of three purported friends play out in Yasmina Reza’s comedy Art. Serge (Damon Herriman) has purchased a modernist art work much to Marc’s chagrin (Richard Roxburgh). White lines on a white background are not Marc’s idea of art. Caught between the two is Yvan (Toby Schmitz) who attempts, but fails, to find the middle path using advice from the psychologist he visits regularly. The dynamic between the three leads to the ridiculous which the actors play into with great delight. Behind that comic surface, however, is Reza implying that we impose our own sensibility onto what is ostensibly the blank canvas of life. Each individual has found his own anodyne; Marc’s partner has persuaded him about homeopathy, the art world’s self-indulgence appeals to Serge, and Yvan has taken to therapy. Most unaccountable of all is why the three are still friends given their differences and disrespect for the life choices made by each other. But that is life’s comedy.

Director Lee Lewis has crafted the rising pitch of the dynamic to great effect over the course of the play and the simple set (Charles Davis) of moving panels enables the action to run seamlessly. The sharp lighting switches (Paul Jackson) also affords for quick scene changes and a delineation between the characters’ inner monologues and ensemble moments. Herriman, Roxburgh and Schmitz are in their element with characterizations that are both eccentric and believable. There are moments of individual indulgence – Yvan’s monologue a gem – but the interaction between the three is a delight to watch. There are also priceless moments of gleeful physical comedy. Christopher Hampton’s translation from the original French would be a contributing factor here as well picking up on subtleties of language for the actors to interpret.

When people try and justify unaccountable decisions we wonder about their sanity. This play may just be the remedy. We can’t change those decisions but we can have a good laugh along the way.

Venue: Comedy Theatre, Melbourne. Until May 17.

Bookings: Ticketek.

Review by David McLean

PETER KEMP’S LATEST NEWS IN THE ARTS

Latest Shows

Don Giovanni

■ A serial seducer leaving a trail of stricken women in his wake gets his comeuppance in Melbourne Opera’s rousing production of Mozart’s DonGiovanni. Bright costumes festooned with a riot of red and yellow flounces, along with props such as the guns Don Giovanni produces, ground this production in Seville at some point in the past, though not necessarily in 1787, the year the opera premiered.

Dale Ferguson’s minimalist set, dominated by arches and columns reminiscent of the dystopian classical piazzas of Giorgio de Chirico, with their distorted scale and angles, leaves ample room for performers to shine in this production directed by Suzanne Chaundy

In Chaundry’s retelling, inspired by the post-#MeToo movement and the despicable Jeffrey Epstein scandal, it is the women, Don Elvira, Donna Anna, and Zerlina, who bring the Don to ruin.

Baritone Christopher Tonkin plays Don Giovanni richly and with bluster, bragging of his conquests as he embarks on seducing many more women. Lee Abrahmsen is suitably vengeful as Donna Anna, seeking to avenge her murdered father.

Soprano Eleanor Greenwood performs powerfully as Don Giovanni’s slighted wife, Donna Elvira, torn between her rage and pity for the philandering husband.

Rebecca Rashleigh is an exuberant, vivacious Zerlina, fending off the womanising lothario even as she tries to placate her jealous new husband, Masetto, played by Stephen Marsh.

Bass Henry Shaw almost steals the show, playing the hapless servant Leporello with confidence and embracing slapstick comedy as he attempts to rein in his wayward master.

In the final scene, the statue of the Commendatore, a formidable Eddie Muliaumaseali’i in head-to-toe simulated grey marble, comes to life to issue an ultimatum: repent or suffer.

True to form, the dastardly Giovanni makes his choice and is dragged down to hell to the delight of the audience.

Mara

Review by Kathryn Keeble

■ Powerhouse - ‘an individual such as an actor, singer, or athlete who delivers an exceptionally energetic, skilled, and impactful performance. Someone with immense talent, strength, or influence who consistently delivers commanding, high-energy, or emotionally charged results.’ This perfectly describes Aurora Kurth, the star of Mara. From the moment Kurth stepped on stage she was in command, her voice incredible. The many roles she plays in this virtually one woman show are distinct. From husband to daughter to wife to herself to her changed self, she transforms through the narrative, each character believable, with heart and soul.

Written by Hanna Pyliotis, Mara is based on the Cinderella story from the point of view of the step – (mother) as she transforms from a single mother cursed with flat, toad like feet that she passes on to her daughters - a significant point due to the glass slipper plot, to a bitter, broken woman haunted by the ghost of her husband’s first wife. There are a myriad of characters mostly played by Kurth with some of the original horror of the Grimm brothers version of the original story. Director /Set designer Megan Jones has created a piece of art with this poetic text. The stage versatile, flowing, at times beautiful backdrops, sometimes menacing, all meaningful. Staging that uses the entire space with many levels. The original music arranged/ performed by Ania Reynolds enhances the story whether in song or background .Kurth altering her vocals flawlessly to suit the scene.

Whilst personally I would prefer more actors on stage, more assistance with costume changes for a better flow, a greater connection between Kurth and her two co-performers (Reynolds and assistant stage manager Maho Modouris) it is hard to fault this rendition with the well deserved standing ovation for Aurora Kurth Review by Elizabeth

A Creative Partnerships/ Anita Lawrence and Bill Young

- This exhibition of prints explores the creative partnership of significant local artist Anita Lawrnece and Bill Young which has spanned more than three decades.

Anita is a painter and printmaker whose works are inspired by the connection she has with the landscapes she has called home.

Bill is a Master Printmaker specialising in large format intaglio and relief printing and has worked with many leading Australian artists during his career.

Anita and Bill expired printmaking throughout their careers – Anita’s focus has been on place while Bill has been on the process.

Exhibition closes June 28.

★

Cabbage Salad – Anna Dehm

Anna Dehim is an emerging artist whose works explore rhythm, movement and inclusive form.

Working with ,markers and mixed media techniques including collage, she creates striking compositions where freeform shapes merge and unfold into intricate, memorising problems.

Exhibition closes May 41.

★

Mysteries of the Great Ocean Road – Jane Coy

Jane Coy presents a series of prints based on her watercolour paintings inspired by the dramatic landscapes and wildlife of the Great Ocean Road accompanied by a selection of associated wildlife dioramas that reflect the regions unique natural environment.,

Exhibition closes May 31.

Salt Contemporary Art 33-35 Hesse St, Queenscliff

★

Feathers & Flight

Our feathered companions often signify freedom and hope. Bearing omens, singing songs, holding secrets.

Marrying the earth with the sky birds vary memories from prehistoric times, echoing through over 150 million years of evolution.

Feathers & Flight brings together works by Bridget Thomas, Dean Bowen, Dianne Fogwell, Gillian Lodge, Gus Leunig, Kate GorringeSmith, Clay Gibson. Martin King and Suer Anderson. Each artist offers an unique perspective of the mystical and alluring facets of our avian companions. Nestled in a landscape, in flight, watching over.

Exhibition closes May 29.

Benalla Art Gallery Botanical Gardens, Bridge St, Benalla Bunjil Place

The Offbeat Sari

A major exhibition celebrating the contemporary Sari. This exhibition unravels its numerous forms demonstrating the sari to be a metaphor for the layered and complex definitions of India today. It brings together the finest t saris of our time from designers, wearers and craftspeople of India.

In recent years the sari has been reinvented.

Designers are experimenting with hybrid forms such as sari gowns and dresses, pre-draped saris and innovative materials such as steel. People in cities who used to associate the sari with dressing up can now be found wearing saris and sneakers on their commutes to work. Individuals are wearing he sari as an expression of resistance to social norms and activities are embodying it as an object of protest.

Bunjil Place

2 Patrick North East Drive, Narre Warren Peter Kemp

Amrum

■ Amrum takes its name from an island off the German North Sea coast and serves as the backdrop for Fatih Akin’s film. Set in 1945, the islanders of this tiny, rural community eke out the final days of the war on the bleak, windswept island, digging potatoes, hosting refugees, and trying to make sense of the approaching new world order.

Twelve-year-old Nanning (Jasper Billerbeck) lives with his mother, aunt and siblings in a house dominated by a Nazi flag. Nanning and his friend Hermann (Kian Köppke) work for potato farmer Tessa (Diane Kruger) in exchange for milk.

Nanning’s father, an SS officer, is not on the island, fighting the war for the Reich on the mainland.

Nanning’s heavily pregnant mother Hille (Laure Tonke) remains an ardent B in a village where most inhabitants are not.

On the day Hitler is announced dead, Hille goes into labour, and into a deep depression. Fearing for his family’s future, Nanning embarks on a quest to obtain the impossible to cure his mother’s depression: white bread, real butter and honey.

Along the way, Nanning learns life lessons and family secrets from the eccentric residents, including fishmonger Sam Gangsters (Lars Jessen) , as he works and haggles his way toward his goal.

Amrum carries its baggage with it.

Even as we root for Nanning, dressed in his Hitler Youth uniform, we feel conflicted.

Intellectually, we understand the impact on ordinary Germans as they confront the disintegration of a belief system ingrained since birth, especially for children conscripted into Nazi youth movements.

Emotionally, we can’t escape the memory of the heinous crimes committed.

Yet, at its heart, Amrum is a tender, coming-of-age story that, in its final shot, appeals to hope and a better future.

Amrum opens in Melbourne as the Centrepiece Premiere of the 2026 German Film Festival on May 10, with screenings at various Palace Cinemas

The film is featured in the festival, which runs from May 8-27. Review by Kathryn Keeble.

St Mary’s, Alexandra

■ At St Mary’s school we encourage an inclusive, learning community that values safety, love and faith.

St Mary’s Vision Statement

At St Mary’s School Alexandra, we hold the care, safety and wellbeing of children and young people as a central and fundamental responsibility of our school.

Our commitment is drawn from and inherent to the teaching and mission of Jesus Christ, with love, justice and the sanctity of each human person at the heart of the gospel

This is central to the motto of our school which is: Love One Another.

St Mary’s Alexandra is committed to Child Safety.

MACS Governance Statement

St Mary’s Primary School, Alexandra is a school which operates with the consent of the Catholic Archbishop of Melbourne and is operated and governed by Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools Ltd (MACS).

MACS governs and operates Catholic schools in the Archdiocese to continue the mission of Catholic education to proclaim the Good News and equip our young people with the knowledge, skills, and hope to live

■ SCHOOL: St Mary’s, Alexandra

■ PRINCIPAL: Jenny Allatt

■ ADDRESS: 10 Myrtle St, Alexandra, Vic 3714

■ PHONE: 5772 1500

■ WEBSITE: www.smalexandra. catholic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: principal@smalexandra. catholic.edu.au

meaningful lives and enrich the world around them.

Because the good work of educating the young is a co-responsible task led by every member of the Catholic school community, School Advisory Councils have been established to provide a crucial point of connection between the wider school community and school leaders.

This governance model was designed to ease the administrative burden on our schools and parishes, allow parish priests to focus on the mission of education in the parish, enable greater collaboration between schools and ensure greater consistency in school policies and procedures.

More information about MACS is available at www.macs.vic.edu.au.

North-Eastern Montessori School, St Helena

“When you start to think differently about what school could be.”

At North-Eastern Montessori School, we support children from their earliest years through to adolescence, offering a consistent, personalised approach that grows with them.

Families are drawn to our school seeking an education that is thoughtful, responsive, and grounded in a deep understanding of how children learn best.

From our Toddler and Early Years programs through to Primary and our Middle Years program, we provide continuity in both learning and relationships, allowing each child to feel secure, known, and supported. Small class sizes and a strong focus on connection allow students to work at their own pace, developing independence, confidence, and meaningful engagement with their learning.

Educators guide and challenge each student, balancing care, encouragement and high expectations.

■ SCHOOL: North Eastern Montessori School

■ ADDRESS: 315 Aqueduct Rd, St Helena, Vic 3088

■ PHONE: 9438 3202

■ WEBSITE: wwww.northeastern. vic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: hello@northeastern. vic.edu.au

Set within a beautiful environment, our school provides a genuine feeling of calm, community and happiness. Students develop a strong sense of belonging and a natural enthusiasm for coming to school each day — reflected in our consistently high attendance of around 95 percent.

North-Eastern Montessori School offers something truly special: a seamless journey from early childhood to secondary where young people are nurtured to grow, discover their strengths and develop with confidence.

Mernda Park Primary School

Mernda Park Primary School: A Community of Learners

Mernda Park Primary School (MPPS) stands as a vibrant heart of our local community, committed to providing a high-quality education that prepares every student for a successful future.

As we celebrate Education Week 2026, we invite you to discover the dedication and passion that define our school.

Our state-of-the-art Learning Communities are designed to foster a focused and supportive environment.

At MPPS, we prioritise a rigorous curriculum with a strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy, ensuring our students build the essential foundations needed for lifelong achievement.

This academic core is enriched by diverse specialist programs, including Physical Education, Performing Arts, Visual Arts, and Japanese, allowing students to explore their talents and interests.

We believe that education is a true part

■ SCHOOL: Mernda Park Primary School

■ ADDRESS: 40 Riverdale Rd, Mernda, Vic 3754

■ PHONE: 8776 9700

■ WEBSITE: www.merndaparkps. vic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: mernda.park.ps@ education.vic.gov.au

nership between the school and our families. By working closely together, we create a safe, inclusive environment where every child is known, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

From our enthusiastic performances in the Community Hub to our active student leadership, the spirit of MPPS is driven by a shared commitment to excellence.

We welcome families to visit and see firsthand why Mernda Park Primary School is the ideal place for your child to grow and thrive

St Francis Xavier, Box Hill

■ Our vision, ‘a caring faith community fostering welcome, inclusion and a love of learning’ is at the heart of everything we do.

We are a culturally diverse school that treasures the richness this brings as our students learn what it means to belong to a school in the Franciscan tradition.

St Francis Xavier's story as a man of faith who ventured to many countries, learning the languages and cultures of the people he met, inspires us.

He was a brave, courageous, risk-taker, always willing to push himself and meet the challenges he encountered.

We want this for our students: to be lifelong learners who always give their best effort and work hard to build and sustain positive relationships.

Our core values of trust, respect, forgiveness and care drive our interactions with one another as teachers, students and

■ SCHOOL: St Francis Xavier Box Hill

■ PRINCIPAL: Mary Jones

■ ADDRESS: 1087 Whitehorse Rd, Box Hill, Vic 3128

■ PHONE: 9890 1108

■ WEBSITE: www.sfxboxhill. catholic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: enquiries@sfxboxhill. catholic.edu.au

families, and guide us in being our best selves.

St Francis Xavier has a rigorous learning program that prioritises wellbeing so that every student can feel confident, safe and ready to learn.

This enables optimal learning for all and makes our classrooms calm, settled learning spaces where all can succeed. We welcome all families to come and visit and experience this wonderful learning environment for themselves.

St Martin De Porres, Avondale Heights

■ St Martin de Porres catholic primary school is a place where faith, learning, and community come together to nurture every child’s potential.

At the heart of our early literacy approach is the highly effective UFLI Phonics program, which provides explicit, systematic instruction to ensure all students become confident, capable readers.

This strong foundation is complemented by contemporary teaching practices that are evidence-based, engaging, and responsive to the needs of every learner.

Our dedicated teachers create dynamic classrooms where curiosity is encouraged and students are empowered to take ownership of their learning.

Technology is thoughtfully integrated to enhance outcomes, while a strong focus on wellbeing ensures every child feels safe, supported, and valued.

We are a Positive Behaviours for Learning School and we explicitly teach the behaviours we want to see.

■ SCHOOL: St Martin de Porres Catholic Primary School

■ PRINCIPAL: Stefanie Harvey

■ ADDRESS: 158 Military Rd Avondale Heights, Vic 3034

■ PHONE: 9369 1070

■ WEBSITE: www.smdplaverton. catholic.edu.au/

■ EMAIL: principal@smavondale heights.catholic.edu.au

Beyond the classroom, our school boasts spacious, well-maintained grounds that offer room to play, explore, and grow.

Lunchtime clubs provide rich opportunities for students to pursue interests, build friendships, and develop new skills— whether in sport, arts, or leadership.

Above all, our vibrant, faith filled and diverse community is what truly sets us apart. Families, staff, and students work in partnership, creating a sense of belonging where every child is known and cared for. We invite you to come and see our school!

Orchard Grove Primary School, Blackburn North

■ Orchard Grove Primary School warmly invites families and community members to attend our upcoming Open Night on Tuesday 19th May.

This night is a wonderful opportunity to experience our strong sense of community and see our students actively engaged in their learning. The evening will begin at 6:00pm with a welcome from our School Captains, followed by an opportunity to explore classrooms across the school.

Open Night is designed to showcase the engaging learning experiences that take place every day at Orchard Grove.

Families will have the chance to view student work and participate alongside students in short, interactive 10–15 minute lessons in Mathematics, Literacy and Inquiry.

These sessions provide a valuable insight into classroom learning and allow students to proudly share their achievements.

■ SCHOOL: Orchard Grove Primary School

■ ASST. PRINCIPAL: Andrew Moore

■ ADDRESS: 101 Orchard Grove, Blackburn South, Vic 3130

■ PHONE: 9894 3400

■ WEBSITE: https:// orchgveps.vic.edu.au/

■ EMAIL: Andrew.Moore3@ education.vic.gov.au

For families new to the school, guided tours will be available, departing from the office between 6.15pm and 6.30pm, offering a closer look at our learning environment and programs.

The evening will conclude at 7.15pm with a performance from our talented Diwali dancers. Here at Orchard Grove, we are proud of the rich cultural backgrounds that make up our school community, and we take great joy in celebrating this diversity.

St Dominic’s Primary School, Camberwell East

St. Dominic’s -

A message from our Principal.

My name is Natalie Kenny and it is my honour and privilege to lead the St. Dominic’s school community.

As a Catholic educator of more than 30 years and a parent of two, I deeply understand the importance of selecting the right primary school for your child and family.

Choosing a school is a significant decision for every family.

We invite you to visit us and experience our learning culture, meet our community, and ask the questions that matter most to you at this very important time for your family.

At St.Dominic’s we pride ourselves on being a warm, welcoming, supportive and inclusive community and we deeply value the partnership between school and home.

Every child is truly valued, known, celebrated and empowered and are always at the heart of all we do.

We believe that wellbeing is central to successful learning. Children who feel happy, confident and supported form strong connections, achieve positive learning outcomes and flourish in all aspects of school life.

This is at the core of our work and our community. At St.Dominic’s we truly live the African proverb,”It takes a village to raise a child”.

Our Dominican Charism shapes everything we do: grounded in Prayer, Learning Service and Community, which is lived and celebrated daily.

St. Dominic’s offers diverse, enriching and engaging learning programs, contemporary learning spaces, strong student voice and agency and tailored learning support.

We have dedicated and professional staff who are committed to each child’s growth.

■ SCHOOL: St Dominic’s Primary School, Camberwell

■ PRINCIPAL: Natalie Kenny

■ ADDRESS: 145 Highfield Rd, Camberwell East, Vic 3124

■ PHONE: 9836 8300

■ WEBSITE: www.sdcamberwelleat. catholic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: wdalton@sdcamberwell east.catholic.edu.au

to discover the St. Dom’s Difference for yourself.

St Dominic’s School, Broadmeadows

■ St. Dominic’s School is a Catholic school community where your child will experience belonging and be both challenged and supported to reach beyond their boundaries.

As a richly diverse learning community, our students thrive in knowing they are known and valued.

In partnership with families, we build positive relationships that enable each child to flourish and exemplify our school motto, “Let your light shine” (Matthew 5:16).

We hold a vision of high-quality, affordable Catholic education for our local community.

Our staff are committed to providing engaging teaching and learning experiences that interweave wellbeing and academic growth, ensuring every student develops a strong sense of belonging.

■ SCHOOL: St Dominic’s School, Broadmeadows

■ CONTACT: Katie Broadbent

■ ADDRESS: 408 Camp Rd, Broadmeadows, Vic 3047

■ PHONE: 9309 4146

■ WEBSITE: www.sdbroadmeadows. catholic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: kbroadbent@ sdbroadmeadows.catholic.edu.au

St Aloysius College, North Melbourne

■ SCHOOL: St Aloysius College

■ PRINCIPAL: Mary Farah

■ ADDRESS: Boundary Rd, North Melbourne, Vic 3051

■ PHONE: 9325 9200

■ WEBSITE: www.aloysius.vic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: irvinem@ aloysius.vic.edu.au

St Aloysius College Opens the Doors to Senior Years Campus

St Aloysius College will open its new purpose-built Senior Years Campus, at the commencement of Term 3.

Located on Boundary Road, North Melbourne, the six-level campus has been designed to cater to the unique and emerging learning needs of VCE students, providing contemporary spaces that reflect the demands of senior study and life beyond school.

The campus features flexible learning spaces, specialist science facilities, collaborative study areas, student breakout zones and a rooftop terrace overlooking the city skyline. The environment is built to foster independence, academic excellence and genuine connection.

Principal Mary Farah said the campus marks an exciting new chapter for the College community.

“This campus has been thoughtfully created to inspire ambition, curiosity and confidence in our senior students," she said.

St. Dominic’s is a Child Safe School with zero tolerance for child abuse. We value the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of every student, and warmly invite you to visit and experience our welcoming community.

Our rich liturgical life, student leadership opportunities, and student-driven lunchtime clubs—including Lego, Robotics, Gardening, Choir, and more—support all members of our community to live a life centred in faith, hope, and love.

Canterbury Girls’ Secondary College

■ Recognised for its strong culture and quality teaching, Canterbury Girls’ Secondary College empowers students not just to succeed, but to contribute meaningfully and lead with purpose in an increasingly complex world.

Canterbury Girls’ Secondary College creates a community defined by belonging, shared purpose and pride. Confidence is built, voices are strengthened, and young women learn to shape their own futures. At its heart is a powerful sense of connection—between students, families, staff and alumni.

As one of the state’s few government all-girls’ schools, Canterbury Girls’ Secondary College offers a learning environment where every student is truly known and supported. Individuality is celebrated, while shared values guide students to grow with clarity, courage and self-belief. Students succeed academically at Canterbury Girls’ Secondary College. Evidence-informed teaching, high expectations and a culture of curiosity ensure

"It reflects our commitment to providing future-focused learning environments while remaining deeply grounded in the Mercy values at the heart of St Aloysius College."

The opening of the Senior Years Campus marks a significant milestone in the College's continued growth, and a bold step in its Journey of Excellence.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Ringwood

■ SCHOOL: Canterbury Girls’ secondary College

■ PRINCIPAL: Julie Niamh

■ ADDRESS: Mangarra Rd, Canterbury, Vic 3126

strong academic growth and VCE success. Students are challenged to think deeply, take intellectual risks.

Canterbury Girls’ Secondary College offers, a rich co-curricular program spanning music, sport, leadership and community engagement building resilience, creativity and adaptability. Students develop agency and confidence, learning to lead with integrity and intent.

■ Our Lady of Perpetual Help is a welcoming Catholic Primary School in Ringwood, with a proud history of over 90 years.

Our school is a place where students thrive in their learning, grow in faith, and build a strong sense of community.

We focus on academic excellence, spiritual development, service to others, and helping each child grow personally.

We believe in treating everyone with respect, kindness, and celebrating what makes each person unique.

At Our Lady’s your voice, your story, and your identity are important. We are committed to creating a community where everyone, no matter their background or beliefs, feels valued, included, and empowered.

■ NAME: Our Lady of Perpetual Help

■ PRINCIPAL: Jennifer Rohan

■ ADDRESS: 2 Wilana St, Ringwood, Vic 3134

■ PHONE: 980 7227

■ EMAIL: principal@olringwood. catholic.edu.au

Our academic programs are designed to challenge and support each child, helping them reach their full potential. Our dedicated teachers and staff are here to guide and encourage your child’s success. Small class size caters for all needs

We warmly invite you to visit us and take a tour of our school!

Box Hill North Primary School

Every Student known. Every student challenged. Every student supported.

Now enrolling for Prep 2027

At Box Hill North Primary School, we are clear about our purpose. Every student is entitled to strong teaching that meets them at their point of need and moves their learning forward.

From the first year of school, we take a deliberate approach to teaching and learning, grounded in responsive teaching. Teachers use regular, structured assessment to understand what each student knows and what they are ready to learn next. This informs daily practice, ensuring that support and extension are provided as required.

Our Prep program sets the foundation for future success. Students begin with explicit, carefully sequenced instruction in literacy and numeracy, alongside the routines and habits that support learning. Classrooms are calm, focused and purposeful, allowing students to build confidence and independence from the outset.

Over time, students develop strong academic foundations and the ability to think, apply their learning, and take responsibil-

■ SCHOOL: Box Hill North Primary School

■ CONTACT: Sarah Thomas

■ ADDRESS: 7-9 Elizabeth St, Box Hill North, Vic 3129

■ PHONE: 9890 5023

■ WEBSITE: www.bhnps.vic.edu.au

ty for their progress. Wellbeing is embedded within this work through consistent classrooms, clear expectations and strong relationships between teachers and students.

We work in partnership with families to ensure every student’s success. Communication is clear and purposeful, giving families a strong understanding of their child’s progress and how learning can be supported at home.

We are proud that our Prep program is led by a teacher recognised with a 2025 Victorian Education Excellence Award, reflecting the quality of teaching and commitment to student growth at our school.

If you are considering Prep for 2027, we invite you to visit and see our classrooms in action.

Book a tour with the Principal today.

Good Samaritan Primary School, Roxburgh Park

■ Good Samaritan Catholic Primary School (GSCPS) is a culturally rich and diverse learning community. It has been part of the Roxburgh Park community for 30 years.

Our School is inspired by the parable of the Good Samaritan, which illuminates the life-giving influence of justice, compassion, mercy and respect.

We strongly value partnership with families and recognise that education is most successful when schools and families work together.

The collaborative partnership between child, family and school strengthens learning, wellbeing and belonging.

We are a school of high expectations and as such “Our dream for each child is a life fully lived”.

At the heart of everything we do is the child. Guided by our Christian faith, our approach to curriculum and pedagogy nurtures and empowers students with the knowledge, skills and capabilities they need for lifelong learning and to live life to the

■ SCHOOL: Good Samaritan Catholic Primary School

■ PRINCIPAL: Nancy Greige

■ ADDRESS: 1-29 Southern Cross Drive, Roxburgh Park, Vic 3064

■ PHONE: 9308 6177

■ WEBSITE: www.goodsam. catholic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: office@goodsam. catholic.edu.au

Our school provides a safe, inclusive and engaging learning community where each child passes through Learning Villages that are developmentally appropriate to their age and stage of learning.

Each child experiences a variety of learning environments of ever increasing complexity and challenge, fostering creativity, promoting strong interpersonal relationships and stimulating excitement and wonder for the world around them.

Marian College, Sunshine West

■ Marian College is a vibrant Catholic learning community committed to educational excellence and a future focused approach to teaching and learning.

Grounded in faith and Gospel values, the College nurtures each student to grow academically, spiritually, socially and emotionally in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Educational excellence at Marian College is driven by high expectations, evidencebased teaching practice and a strong culture of continuous improvement.

Our dedicated staff work collaboratively to deliver engaging, contemporary curriculum programs that challenge students and support them to achieve their personal best.

Student wellbeing is central to all we do at Marian, ensuring our young people feel seen, valued and empowered to succeed.

With a strong future focus, Marian College embraces innovation, digital technologies and realworld learning experiences to prepare students for a rapidly changing world.

■ SCHOOL: Marian College, Sunshine West

■ PRINCIPAL: Angela Romano

■ ADDRESS: 196 Glengala Rd, Sunshine West, Vic 3020

■ PHONE: 9363 1711

■ WEBSITE: www.mariansw. catholic.edu.au

Critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and adaptability are embedded across learning programs, enabling students to become confident problem solvers, lifelong learners and global citizens.

Strong links with community, tertiary pathways and vocational opportunities further support students to make informed choices about their future.

Through a balance of academic rigour, pastoral care and forwardthinking education, Marian College prepares students not only for academic success, but for meaningful, purposedriven lives beyond the classroom.

Old Orchard Primary School, Blackburn North

■ Old Orchard Primary School provides a nurturing and supportive environment, with high standards and expectations of all students and a commitment to both academic achievement and student wellbeing.

The acquisition of high-level literacy and numeracy skills is at the centre of our curriculum, in accordance with the Victorian Curriculum and guided by the Victorian Teaching and Learning Model 2.0. High quality specialist programs are offered in STEM, Music / Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Physical Education and Mandarin.

Our modern library caters for all students and actively promotes a love of literature and reading. Many of our extra-curricular programs are linked to the specialist programs and provide genuine enrichment opportunities for our students.

Our school culture is exemplary, with positive connections and interactions consistently on display.

We have a range of wellbeing programs that fall within the School Wide Positive Behaviour Support framework.

■ SCHOOL: Old Orchard Primary School

■ PRINCIPAL: Duncan Cant

■ ADDRESS: 70-88 Koonung Rd, Blackburn North, Vic 3130

■ PHONE: 9877 7899

■ WEBSITE: www.oldorchardps.vic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: old.orchard.ps@ education.vic.gov.au

Values such as respect, tolerance, honesty, perseverance, trust and compassion are actively taught and there is a commitment to promoting resilience and optimism in students.

We welcome the opportunity to show you around our wonderful school and chat about its many outstanding features.

Open Evening: Thursday May 28th 5.00

– 7.00pm

Please visit our website for school tour details.

Mahogany Rise Primary School, Framkston North

■ Welcome to Mahogany Rise Primary School.

It is a privilege to lead such a vibrant and caring school community where every child is known, valued, and supported to achieve their best.

Our vision — “Every child and family is successful in learning and life” — guides everything we do and is complimented by our school expectations of ‘Be a Learner, Be Respectful and Be Safe’.

Our vision and expectations reflect our unwavering belief that education extends beyond the classroom, shaping confident, capable, and compassionate individuals.

At Mahogany Rise, our teaching is grounded in explicit instruction, ensuring every student receives clear, structured, and engaging lessons that build strong foundational skills and confidence as learners.

This evidence-based approach provides consistency across classrooms and supports every child to experience success in their learning.

We are equally committed to nurturing wellbeing. Each day, our students and staff come together in our school dining room, where every child is provided with a nutritious meal.

■ SCHOOL: Mahogany Rise Primary School

■ CONTACT: Michelle

■ ADDRESS: 23 Jenkens St, Frabkston North, Vic 3200

■ PHONE: 9786 3211

■ WEBSITE: www.mahoganyriseps. vic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: mahogany.rise.ps@ education.vic.gov.au

This daily routine fosters a sense of belonging, connection, and community, while ensuring that all students are ready to learn and thrive.

Our dedicated staff use data-driven and positive education practices, drawing on the Berry Street Education Model to create safe, inclusive, and predictable learning environments.

We work closely with families and community partners to ensure that every child’s academic, social, and emotional needs are met with care and high expectations.

I warmly invite you to visit our school, meet our wonderful staff and students, and experience the welcoming spirit that makes Mahogany Rise such a special place to learn and grow.

Mernda Central College

■ Mernda Central P–12 College is a vibrant and inclusive school at the heart of the Mernda community, delivering high-quality education from Prep to Year 12.

With a strong commitment to excellence, wellbeing and inclusion, the College offers a supportive and engaging environment where every student is empowered to achieve their personal best.

For our youngest learners, the early years are shaped in a warm and nurturing environment where students grow socially, emotionally and academically.

Strong foundations in literacy and numeracy are developed through engaging and differentiated programs, inspiring curiosity, independence and a lifelong love of learning.

Teaching and learning place explicit instruction at the centre of classroom practice, ensuring clarity, consistency and strong outcomes for all learners, strengthened by a valued partnership between students, families and staff.

Students benefit from a broad and engaging curriculum with diverse subject op-

■ SCHOOL: Mernda Central College

■ CONTACT: Amy Pignatelli

■ ADDRESS: 70 Beadalbane Ave, Mernda, Vic 3754

■ PHONE: 8776 9600

■ WEBSITE: www.merndacentral p12college.vic.edu.au/

■ EMAIL: mernda.central.p12@ education.vic.gov.au

tions supporting individual interests and future pathways, including Japanese language studies, vocational education pathways, a Rugby Academy and targeted learning enhancement programs.

Beyond the classroom, a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, including Energy Breakthrough, Instrumental Music, and camps and excursions, enrich the student experience.

The College prepares students for life beyond school through strong careers and pathways programs, developing confident, capable and connected young people.

Emmanuel College, Altona North

■ At Emmanuel College, students are at the centre of everything we do. Our commitment to outstanding Catholic education ensures every student is supported to learn, grow, and thrive, from Year 7 to 12.

Guided by our Marianist tradition, students experience a strong focus on both academic excellence and belonging, helping them develop confidence, compassion, and a sense of purpose.

Learn Well at Emmanuel is our approach to strengthening student learning through engaging classroom experiences, explicit teaching, and greater opportunities for academic success. Students are supported to build deeper understanding, confidence, and strong learning habits that prepare them for the future.

Our Calm Classrooms model ensures students benefit from safe, respectful, and supportive learning environments that promote positive relationships, belonging, and

■ SCHOOL: Emmanuel Collge

■ CONTACT: Tarryn

■ ADDRESS: 423 Blackshaws Rd, Altona North, Vic 3025

■ PHONE: 0402 814 666

■ WEBSITE: www.ecmelb. catholic.edu.au

readiness for learning.

Across our St Paul’s Boys Campus in Altona North and Co-educational Campus in Point Cook, students have access to a broad range of academic, vocational, and leadership pathways, providing opportunities to explore interests, prepare for future careers, and discover their individual strengths.

Our vision is the creation of an inclusive community where every student feels valued, connected, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Our Lady of Sion College, Box Hill

■ Our Lady of Sion College is a community where every young person is welcomed into a culture grounded in dignity, respect and genuine care.

Inspired by the charism of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion, our story is shaped by hope, reconciliation, justice and compassion, values that are lived each day through our relationships, learning and community spirit.

At the heart of our mission is our motto, Truth in Love. It calls us to seek understanding with compassion, pursue excellence with humility, and engage with generosity and respect.

A defining feature of Sion is our strong sense of belonging. Students are known and valued, staff foster meaningful connections, and our learning environment supports curiosity, confidence and growth. Through the benefits of all-girls education,

■ SCHOOL: Our Lady of Sion College

■ ADDRESS: 1065 Whitehorse Rd, Box Hill, Vic 3128

■ PHONE: 9890 9097

■ WEBSITE: wwww.sion.catholic. edu.au

our students are empowered to develop as capable learners, leaders and young women.

Our vision is to uncover the excellence within every student, inspire a lifelong commitment to justice, and nurture young people who will meet a changing world with courage, integrity and purpose.

I warmly invite you to visit our College and experience firsthand a community that embraces inclusion, cultivates excellence and nurtures hope. We look forward to welcoming you.

Holy Family Primary School, Mount Waverley

■ At Holy Family Primary School, we foster a nurturing, faith-filled environment where every child is known, valued and supported to flourish academically, socially and emotionally.

Our school culture is built on strong routines, explicit teaching and high expectations that create calm, purposeful learning environments.

We use evidence-based approaches to teaching and learning, ensuring students are supported and challenged to achieve growth and success.

Our literacy program includes a structured synthetic phonics approach with a strong focus on morphology and vocabulary development to strengthen reading comprehension, spelling and writing skills.

Teachers use ongoing assessment and targeted feedback to meet individual learning needs.

Student wellbeing is central to school life. Through our Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) framework and strong focus on men

■ SCHOOL: Holy Family School, Mount Waverley

■ PRINCIPAL: Julie David

■ ADDRESS: 250 Stephensons Rd, Mount Waverley, Vic 3149

■ PHONE: 9807 3300

■ WEBSITE: www.hfmw.catholic. edu.au

■ EMAIL: principal@hfmw. catholic.edu.au

tal health and wellbeing, students develop resilience, confidence and positive relationships.

Holy Family values strong partnerships with families and the wider community. We also enjoy close links with Salesian College and Avila College, supporting smooth transition pathways for our students.

Guided by our Catholic faith, we strive to nurture compassionate, confident and capable learners.

Education Week

Places To Go

Travel Briefs

Tourism shuffle

■ Victoria’s tourism sector and the local jobs it supports have been left worse-off under the State Government’s latest cabinet reshuffle, says the Opposition’s David South-wick.

“Premier Jacinta Allan has announced the Major Events and Tourism portfolio will be split – threatening to create a lack of coordination and disjointed policy between these two complementary areas of government,” Mr Southwick said. “This decision has not been made to deliver better outcomes and a stronger tourism sector, but to appease Labor insiders who are putting their own interests ahead of Victorians,” Mr Southwick said.

Dolphin swims

■ Just after dawn on Mauritius’ west coast, the water turns glassy and the mountain silhouette of Le Morne Brabant feels almost unreal. This is when the wild dolphin encounter at LUX Le Morne begins. An ethically run experience, this is a must do in Mauritius

■ Victorian travellers are paying more than anyone else in Australia just to get to the airport.

Transport costs average $49.79 per trip, the highest in the country, before parking, food or baggage fees are even factored in.

New data from Send My Bag’s Australian Travel Index, which surveyed 2000 Australians between late February and March this year, reveals:

■ Over one-third of Victorians (35.15 per cent) are spending $50–$100 just to get to the airport

■ Nearly four in 10 (38.46 per cent) are paying $101–$200 on airport parking per trip

■ Almost one in three Victorian travellers (30.51 per cent) have been hit with unexpected baggage fees

Those caught out are typically paying $100–$199 just to check a bag. Travellers are also spending an average of $31.54 on food and drink before take-off

Rombination of travel disruption, rising fuel costs and hidden fees is driving up costs of flying.

Airport.

School of Air

■ The Alice Springs School of the Air Visitor Centre this year celebrates 30 years of sharing one of Australia’s most unique and inspiring education stories with the world.

The Visitor Centre was officially opened 30 years ago to showcase the remarkable way education was delivered to children living in some of the most remote areas of Outback Australia

Through radio broadcasts, the Alice Springs School of the Air connected students separated by vast distances, transforming isolation into opportunity and redefining how education could be delivered.

Since its opening, the Visitor Centre has become a place where visitors can experience this extraordinary story firsthand.

Through engaging displays and personalised tours, guests gain insight into the innovation, resilience, and dedication that has shaped the Alice Springs School of the Air and continues to support remote education today.

Places To Go

Places To Go

Portia & Co is a beautiful place to find something unique. Located in the historic town of Maldon, less than 2 hrs from Melbourne it is the perfect place for a day trip or weekend away.

Portia & Co offers interesting contemporary art, jewellery, homewares & gifts from Australian creatives.

Open 7 days per week. 10am to 4pm 34-36 Main Street, Maldon. portiaandco.com.au

WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2026

Bush Telegraph Whiparound

Transmission lines

■ Victorian Farmers Federation Acting President, Peter Star, has commented on the Victorian Coalition’s announcement to pause the VNI West and WRL transmission line projects.

“The reckless VNI West and WRL transmission lines are failed projects that threaten to tear generational farming families apart and destroy the best farmland in the country,” Mr Star said.

"This pause is a well-overdue acknowledgment that these projects are deeply flawed, but a pause alone is not enough. They should be scrapped entirely and we will keep fighting until that happens.”

Alpaca Week success

■ The Australian Alpaca Association celebrated local farmers and the advancement and growth of the alpaca industry in Australia with the return of its 36th annual National Alpaca Week, from May 2-10.

“With no better time to celebrate the farmers and producers on our home shores, National Alpaca Week is an opportunity to engage with Australia’s most charming farm animals through open farms, fleece demonstrations and youth workshops. National Alpaca Week provides an opportunity to get up close and personal with alpacas and learn about their growing role in both farming and fashion.”

FIRST FEMALE MINING WARDEN APPOINTED

■ Karen Streckfuss has been appointed Victoria’s Mining Warden for a period of three years.

The Mining Warden plays an important role in investigating and attempting to resolve mining related disputes by mediation, conciliation and arbitration.

The Mining Warden can also make recommendations to the Minister for Energy and Resources

Licence holders, landholders and community members can bring mining related disputes to the Mining Warden, including disagreements about land access and boundaries covered by a licence or an application.

Ms Streckfuss brings a wealth of experience to this role. She is an accredited mediator with extensive experience conducting mediations and conciliations, including on sensitive matters.

She has previously been on the Mediators List for several courts and tribunals.

She is also a member of the Victorian Bar and has practised as a barrister for 27 years, with prior experience as a solicitor.

“If parties can agree on a resolution, they are generally going to have more buy in than if a solution is imposed on them,” Ms Streckfuss said. “I am looking forward to helping people to resolve their disputes in my role as Mining Warden.”

Capital gains hit

■ The Victorian Farmers Federation called on Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers to rule out changes to capital gains tax concessions on farm transfers in last night’s Federal Budget VFF Acting President Peter Star said the gap between what a farm is worth on paper and what it earns has never been wider.

For Young Women

■ Young women in regional Australia at risk of disengaging from school or leaving care without support will soon have access to a national mentoring program

The Warrior Woman Foundation is expanding beyond NSW and QLD, with a new online model designed to reach regional communities where services like this are often limited or non-existent.

The Charity's Founder, J essica Brown, says the real difference having access to support like this can make, including:

■ How confidence and job-readiness are changing for young women who have access to consistent support

■ Why online mentoring is becoming essential for regional and rural communities

■ Why financial literacy is still a major barrier for young women entering independence in regional Australia

Places To Go: Mid-Year Travel

Places To Go: Mid-Year Travel

Places To Go: Mid-Year Travel

Places To Go: Mid-Year Travel

WEDNEDAY, MAY 13, 2026

In The Pink

Discharge delays

■ Ageing Australia says that it welcomes the establishment of joint inquiries into older people facing delayed discharge from hospitals by State and Federal Governments

A new national hospital discharge joint taskforce will look at ways to improve outcomes for older patients, while a separate enquiry by the NSW Productivity Commission will recommend ways of reducing discharge delays, improving access to care and relieving pressure on hospitals.

“Too often, older people are being left to languish in hospital far longer than necessary. But the solutions to this problem are constantly oversimplified, which makes real progress impossible,” Ageing Australia CEO Tom Symondson said.

Staff levels at risk

■ Victoria’s public hospital mandated nursing and midwifery safe staffing levels are at risk under a Wilson Liberal Government, says Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (Victorian Branch) Assistant Secretary Nicole Allan . Announcements flagged to slash more than 7000 public sector jobs have put nurses and midwives on high alert, said Ms Allan. “History tells us that Liberal Governments go after nurse/midwife patient ratios and they don’t support or understand mandated minimum safe staffing.”

PALLIATIVE CARE QUESTION TIME

■ Australians are being encouraged to start important conversations about palliative and end-of-life care as National Palliative Care Week takes place.

Running until Saturday (May c16), this year’s NPCW campaign, Getting to the heart of it: Big Questions. Real Answers, encourages people to ask questions, seek trusted information and talk about what matters most.

Palliative Care Australia Interim CEO Simon Waring said the week is an opportunity to improve understanding of palliative care and encourage earlier conversations.

“Too many Australians still think palliative care is only for the very end of life, when in reality it can begin much earlier and sit alongside other treatments,” Mr Waring said.

“Palliative care is about helping people with a life-limiting illness live as well as possible, for as long as possible. It supports comfort, dignity and quality of life, while also helping families, carers and loved ones.”

“This year, we are encouraging Australians to ask the big questions: What matters most to me? What care would help me live well? Who needs to know my wishes? And what support is available for the people around me?” Mr Waring said.

Simon Waring

The Pulse Danger to rebates

■ Private Healthcare Australia has warned the Federal Government’s proposed changes to the private health insurance rebate for older Australians could threaten the viability of dozens of private hospitals that regional communities rely on for essential healthcare.

PHA said many private hospitals serving large populations of older Australians are at risk of a significant reduction in patient activity if thousands of seniors are forced to drop or downgrade their health insurance because of steep premium increases expected next year.

Need for rural physio

■ The Australian Physiotherapy Association has released its recent submission to the Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee, calling for reforms to Medicare which it says remedy the Scheme’s failure to provide equitable access to physiotherapy in rural, regional and remote communities.

The APA’s submission, which comes as part of the Committee’s examination into Rural, Regional and Remote Medicare Access and Funding , provides a suite of recommendations which, among other things, seek to prevent avoidable hospitalisation, unnecessary imaging and medication use and avoidable strain on the Australian health system.

Senior Service

Extra aged fees axed

■ Indi MHR Dr Helen Haines has welcomed the Government’s decision to scrap aged care co-payments for essential daily care, following persistent advocacy from the crossbench and community.

“This is a win for older people across Indi , and the nation, and for the families and carers who spoke up about what these changes mean for their daily lives,” Dr Haines said.

Under changes to home support that commenced last year, older Australians are required to pay out-of-pocket costs by classifying services like showering as ‘non-clinical’ care.

“When the government introduced its aged care reforms in 2024, I raised serious concerns about the co-payment.

“I continued to voice those concerns with the new aged care minister in 2025 until now.

“Basic care - like help with showering, eating and getting dressed - is not a luxury. It is clinical care that is fundamental to dignity, health and quality of life."

Dr Haines said many constituents had contacted her office, sharing their fears that the changes would make essential care unaffordable. She said the crossbench had led the charge on taking this issue to the government.

“I heard directly from older people and their families who were worried they would have to go without care or be pushed into hardship.”

Dr Haines said the Government’s decision to reverse course was the right one.

“This is the right outcome, and it shows that when communities speak up and with their voices being championed from the crossbench, governments must act.”

She noted that while the co-payment proposal was flawed, there remains a need for integrity and sustainability in the aged care system.

“I support strong safeguards to ensure public funding is used properly and to prevent fraud.

“But those safeguards must never come at the expense of access to essential care.”

Dr Haines said she would continue to advocate for a fair, accessible and highquality aged care system.

“Our older Australians deserve a system that puts their dignity first - and I will keep working to make sure that’s exactly what they get.”

A reversal of the co-payments will commence in October.

Price benchmarks

■ The Australian Independent Retirees submissions to the Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority seek clear and enforceable pricing benchmarks for aged care services.

“Without clear and enforceable pricing benchmarks, retirees are vulnerable to excessive or opaque charges for aged care services,” said AIR Chief Advocate Wayne Strandquist

“Older Australians, particularly fully and partly self-funded retirees, face escalating costs for in-home care, with many reporting higher hourly rates, reduced service hours and administrative charges that are difficult to understand or justify.”

Flaws noted

■ The Inspector-General of Aged Care’s final report of its Review of My Aged Care has exposed significant flaws and inadequacies with the platform designed to be the single-entry point to the aged care system.

KEYTON WELCOMES VERSO PLACE APPROVAL

■ Keyton has welcomed Whitehorse City Council’s unanimous decision to approve its VerSo Place development in Vermont South.

It marks a major milestone for one of Melbourne’s most significant new retirement living communities.

“This unanimous decision is a strong vote of confidence in our vision for VerSo Place and in the way we’ve approached this project from day one,” said Keyton Chief Executive Officer Nathan Cockerill

“We’re grateful to Council for its considered assessment and for recognising the quality, care and long-term value this development will bring to the local community.”

VerSo Place will be delivered as a staged development, with a strong emphasis on design quality, sustainability and connection to place.

The project has been shaped through extensive consultation and planning, including refinements to address community feedback raised during the planning process.

“We received some objections to our proposal from our neighbours during the DA process and worked proactively with them to address the concerns raised,” said Mr Cockerill.

“We listened and responded constructively and made changes around access, landscaping and the integration of the village with its surrounds.

“This approval reflects that process. It shows what’s possible when developers, councils and communities engage respectfully and with a shared focus on good outcomes,” he said.

Mr Cockerill said VerSo Place represents a new benchmark for how Keyton approaches retirement living, not as a standalone project, but as part of the fabric of an established neighbourhood.

“From the adaptive reuse of the heritage building to the way homes and shared spaces are oriented to the landscape, this is about creating a community that feels authentic and enduring.”

With planning approval secured, Keyton will continue early works and progress the next phases of the project in line with its staged delivery program.

“Reaching this point is a significant moment, but it’s also the start of the next chapter.

“We’re looking forward to moving ahead, keeping our communication and community engagement open, and delivering a development at VerSo Place everyone can be proud of,” Mr Cockerill said.

Keyton is a leading owner and operator of independent retirement living communities in Australia

■ A major Australian trial published in The Lancet Public Health has found that a tailored online program can help older adults aged 60-75 years significantly reduce risky alcohol use, by cutting consumption by an average of five standard drinks per month.

High-risk alcohol use among older Australians is an emerging issue. While overall drinking rates have declined in recent decades, risky drinking has remained steady or increased in later life.

National data show nearly one in five Australians in their 60s exceed recommended guidelines, placing them at greater risk of long-term harms. This is particularly important as alcohol is a key modifiable risk factor for dementia yet remains under-recognised in older adults.

Senior Moments

Healthy Ageing Day

■ Australia’s first National Healthy Ageing Day was held last week on Wednesday, May 6, highlighting how simple, practical healthy ageing approaches can help Australians stay strong, independent, and keep doing what matters as they age.

Healthy ageing is supported through evidence-based actions such as staying active, staying socially connected, and using the right tools to maintain independence.

The inaugural theme, Keep doing what matters, encouraged people to reflect on what they value most, whether that’s continuing a hobby or maintaining social ties, and how healthy ageing approaches can support those goals.

Andrea Morris , CEO of iLA , said: “Ageing well doesn’t require big changes. It starts with small, achievable actions that support strength, connection and independence. National Healthy Ageing Day is about encouraging people to take those steps."

Probe welcomed

■ The Human Rights and Age Discrimination Commissioners welcome the Commonwealth Ombudsman’s decision to investigate the use of the Integrated Assessment Tool in aged care.

The IAT is a national digital system designed to make decisions about an older person's needs and their eligibility for home-based governmentsubsidised aged care services, as part of the government’s Support at Home program.

In practice, the IAT can shape decisions about what services a person can access, and how costs are shared between them and the government.

“Independent scrutiny is critical where automated or algorithm-based systems are used in public administration in ways that shape access to services and have financial consequences,” said a representative of the Human Rights Commission,

“For older people, aged care assessments often determine both the level of support received and the costs they must meet, frequently at times of heightened vulnerability.

“Recent public reporting highlights concerns about how the Tool operates in practice.

“These include whether human reviewers are being prohibited from overriding automated decisions, and whether review pathways are accessible and effective when people’s circumstances change or errors detected.

“The Commission has consistently emphasised that AI-informed decisionmaking in government must operate within clear legal authority and be supported by effective human oversight, transparency and review.

“These principles are directly relevant to digital tools used in aged care, where decisions have enduring consequences for people’s dignity and wellbeing.

“The Ombudsman’s investigation provides an important opportunity to examine whether current practices reflect these standards and where safeguards need to be strengthened.”

Loneliness concern

■ As Australia’s population ages and loneliness becomes a growing public health concern, new research from Monash University has found that older Australians without close family ties face significantly higher rates of loneliness. Even with formal aged care support, the absence of partners or children significantly increase the likelihood of severe loneliness.

Home Sweet Home Home Affairs

Smoke alarms gap

■ Research suggests only 45 per cent of properties attended by fire services had smoke alarms and, of those, 31 per cent were not working2.

Fire safety experts at Brooks Australia are calling for residents in Victoria to make a habit of checking, cleaning, and replacing the batteries for, their fire and smoke alarms.

They follow the Rule of 10 when it comes to alarm maintenance:

■ Smoke alarms need to be less than 10 years old;

■ They take less than 10 seconds to clean;

■ They take less than 10 seconds to test.

Activity picks up

■ “Access to skilled labour deteriorated further, across almost all regions and all trades, as the number of homes under construction grew in the March quarter this year,” stated Housing Industry Australia Senior Economist Tom Devitt

“The HIA Trades Report provides a quarterly assessment of skilled labour availability in residential construction, as well as demand pressures identified through a survey of home builders.

“Despite rising interest rates and global turmoil, home building activity picked up in the March quarter of 2026, placing renewed pressure on an already constrained skilled workforce,” said Mr Devitt

7000 ‘social homes’

■ Council to Homeless Persons has warmly welcomed the Victorian Government’s commitment to build 7000 new social housing properties, describing the $860 million investment as an important first step in addressing the housing crisis.

“This is a significant and welcome investment, and we congratulate the Victorian Government for making it,” said Deborah Di Natale, CEO of Council to Homeless Persons

“Seven thousand new social housing properties will make a real difference to real people. That includes families on waiting lists, people sleeping rough, and the tens of thousands caught in the revolving door of the private rental market.

“But we have to be honest about the scale of the crisis we’re facing. 39,000 people in greatest need are languishing on Victoria’s priority housing waiting list right now. These seven thousand homes announced by the government are not nearly enough to offer hope to them.

“Modelling by SGS Economics tells us Victoria needs to construct 7990 new social homes every year for the next 10 years - around 80,000 in total - just to lift Victoria up to the national average of social housing.

“This announcement represents barely 10 per cent of what Infrastructure Victoria has recommended the Victorian Government build over the decade.

“The waiting list is longer than it has ever been. People are waiting years for a home they should be able to access now. This investment needs to be the foundation of something bigger, a longterm, sustained commitment to social CHP is calling for a mix of public and community housing in the new build, as the Productivity Commission found that only 36 new public housing dwellings were built over the last 9 years.

“We look forward to working with the government to build on this welcome first step and make sure no Victorian is left without a safe place to call home.”

$3 BILLION SAVED ON ENERGY BILLS

■ Climate-smart home upgrades such as solar panels, batteries, insulation, heat pumps and passive design are already saving Australian households an estimated $3 billion a year, with average savings of around $1500 per year, per home.

Adding EVs to a home’s energy ecosystem can further cut fuel costs, with households potentially saving up to $1000-$1500 per year on petrol depending on driving patterns.

These climate-smart and practical solutions will be on show across the country next month as hundreds of homes prepare to open their doors, showcase clever upgrades, and inspire their neighbours and local community as part of this year’s Sustainable House Day (May 17).

Beyond cost savings, upgrades can make homes more climate-ready to better cope with extreme heat, storms, and blackouts.

The majority of Australia’s housing was built before energy standards were introduced, making retrofits a vital way to cut energy bills, increase comfort, and strengthen homes against future climate risks.

Hosted by not-for-profit organisation Renew, Sustainable House Day has grown to become Australia’s largest national, community-driven celebration of climatesmart living.

Showcase

This year will showcase Australians who have retrofitted, renovated, rebuilt or electrified their homes, perhaps even switching to an EV, to share, inspire and showcase practical solutions for effective climate living.

Tickets are now available for an all-day flat $15 ticket fee, giving visitors access to see as many homes as they like and learn practical ways to cut energy bills and strengthen climate resilience.

Helen Oakey , CEO of Renew , said: "Australian households are leading one of the fastest clean energy transformations in the world.

“Families are installing rooftop solar, embracing home batteries, retrofitting insulation, and adopting passive design to save on bills and improve the safety of their homes in the face of extreme weather events.

“Seeing solutions in action inspires neighbours to act too. Small changes add up, and people leave feeling empowered rather than overwhelmed.

Sustainable

“Sustainable House Day is where it all comes to life. It’s the neighbour-toneighbour learning that drives real change."

Research shows Australians spend almost 90 per cent of their time indoors, most of it at home. Residential buildings account for around 24 per cent of national electricity use and more than 10 per cent of Australia’s total carbon emissions.

Oakey said: “People are feeling the impacts of extreme heat, rising energy costs, and unreliable power, and they’re looking for practical ways to respond.

“Climate action doesn’t just start in Parliament, it starts in our living rooms, kitchens and on our rooftops.

“Sustainable House Day gives people the chance to see those solutions up close, to walk through a home, ask honest questions, and understand what’s actually achievable for them.

“That’s when it shifts from a concept to something real. It becomes a powerful way to drive change and build understanding of what's possible.”

Feeling safe at home

■ One in five Victorians say they don’t feel safe in their own home, while onethird feel less safe than they did 12 months ago, according to new research from RACV’s Home Safety Pulse.

The findings highlight a growing sense of unease among households across Victoria , driven largely by concerns about crime and what people are seeing and hearing in their local communities.

While most Victorians still report feeling safe at home, the research shows a material shift in perceptions, with a significant minority feeling increasingly unsettled.

RACV General Manager Corporate Affairs Liz Carey said feeling safe at home is fundamental to wellbeing and quality of life.

“Home should be a place where people feel secure and at ease, but this research shows that for many Victorians , that sense of safety is being eroded,” Ms Carey said.

“This isn’t just about personal experience. Perceptions of safety are shaped by what people see happening around them, what they hear from neighbours, and the broader public conversation about crime.”

Among Victorians who said they feel less safe at home compared to 12 months ago, the research found:

■ 94 per cent attributed this to crime increasing

■ 32 per cent said it was linked to a neighbour experiencing a crime

■ 14 per cent said it was due to their own personal experience of crime

“These findings show that even when people haven’t been directly affected, concerns about crime in their community can still have a powerful impact on how safe they feel at home,” Ms Carey said.

“Home burglary offences were down by 7 per cent in the latest crime rates from Victoria’s Crime Statistic Agency. However, it’s important to view the trend over a longer period. Home burglary rates are still higher than they were two years ago”.

The Home Safety Pulse also found that perceptions of safety vary across different household types and locations, reinforcing that safety is deeply personal and influenced by context.

“People’s sense of safety goes beyond crime statistics. It’s about confidence in your home, trust in your community, and feeling supported by practical measures that help reduce risk.”

Outdated lot sizes

■ New Housing Industry Association analysis shows state and local governments are actively blocking housing supply while publicly committing to fix affordability.

HIA’s analysis finds that outdated minimum lot size rules embedded in planning schemes across Australia are preventing new homes from being delivered in established suburbs, making it near impossible to meet the National Housing Accord target of 1.2 million new homes.

“Governments are setting housing targets with one hand and shutting down supply with the other,” said HIA Executive Director Planning and Development Sam Heckel.

“You cannot meet housing targets while leaving 1950s planning rules untouched,” said Mr Heckel . HIA data shows housing construction remains well below the 240,000 homes a year required to meet national targets, while land prices have surged to record highs.

Despite this, up to 80 per cent of residential land in many cities remains locked into low-density zoning or similar with minimum lot sizes that effectively prohibit subdivision.

“These rules are a political choice, not a technical necessity,” he said.

“They were designed for a completely different time, yet governments continue to protect them even as affordability collapses.

“Minimum lot sizes are one of the easiest supply constraints for governments to remove yet remain largely untouched because of political reluctance to reform suburban planning controls.

“Governments keep talking about affordability, but this is where it is being lost. Smaller, sensible lot sizes in well-located suburbs would deliver more homes quickly, without high-rise development and without major infrastructure spending.

“Concerns about overdevelopment are being used as an excuse for inaction, despite the fact subdivision is already limited by stormwater rules, flooding, demolition costs, heritage protections and market demand.

“The market already decides where subdivision works and where it doesn’t. What governments are doing is stopping it everywhere, regardless of context,” said Mr Heckel

“HIA modelling shows reducing minimum lot sizes from 500sqm to 300sqm would cut the land cost of a new home by more than $200,000 providing immediate relief for first home buyers and downsizers.

“This is a fast, low-cost reform that governments could implement tomorrow. If governments are genuinely serious about housing supply and affordability, minimum lot sizes must go. Continuing to defend them means accepting higher prices, lower supply and ongoing failure to meet housing targets,” Mr Heckel said.

Housing stress

■ Amplify is releasing new national research showing Victoria is leading the country in housing stress.

■ Nearly three in four Victorians report that more than 30 per cent of their income goes towards housing

■ 62 per cent of Victorians report they don’t trust the State Government to improve housing

■ 74 per cent of Victorians believe little or no progress is being made on housing supply

■ 64 per cent of Australians support changes to Capital Gains Tax discounts and negative gearing.

News As We Went To Press

Beveridge discovery

■ A man was arrested after a large quantity of drugs and cash were located in a car intercepted by Wallan uniform police in Beveridge on Friday, May 8.

Police pulled over a Holden Colorado driving along Old Sydney Rd, about 9pm.

A search of the vehicle uncovered approximately 1kg of cocaine, a quantity of amphetamine and up to $100,000 cash.

The driver and sole occupant of the car was arrested at the scene.

Officers and detectives from the Mitchell Crime Investigation Unit executed a search warrant at an address on Stanley St in Wallan as part of their ongoing investigation.

The property was searched and police seized:

■ approximately 2kg cocaine

■ a credit card gun

■ ammunition

■ drug paraphernalia

A 34-year-old Wallan man was charged with traffick large commercial quantity of cocaine, deal with proceeds of crime and offences against the Firearms Act.

He was remanded in custody to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on August 2.

St Kilda assaults

■ Bayside Sexual Offences & Child Abuse Investigation Team detectives are appealing for public assistance following two sexual assaults in St Kilda in March.

It is understood an unknown man approached a 22 year-old woman who was walking along Alma Road about 7.30am on March 24.

The next day, the same man approached 35 year-old woman who was walking on Chapel Street about 2pm.

In both incidents, the man sexually assaulted the women before fleeing the scene on foot.

The man is perceived to be Caucasian in appearance and is of thin build. He is balding and appears to be in his 30’s.

On Tuesday March 24, he was seen wearing black pants, a black jacket and a white t shirt with a black and red logo on the front.

On Wednesday March 25, the man was seen wearing black pants and a black t-shirt with a white logo on the back.

Investigators have released CCTV and images of a man they believe might be able to assist with their enquiries.

Mt Waverley building fire

■ Fire Rescue Victoria responded to multiple reports of a building fire in Mount Waverley late Sunday afternoon (May 10).

Firefighters arrived at Illuka Crescent within seven minutes to find a double-storey brick townhouse fully ablaze, so the response was escalated.

FRV crews wore breathing apparatus and entered the building to search the premises, confirming no occupants were inside the home.

The incident was declared under control at 4.24pm, approximately 30 minutes after FRV arrived on scene.

One double-storey unit in a dual occupancy structure was fully involved in fire and has sustained significant damage.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined.

Safer transport

■ The State Budget 2026-27 invests $76 million in the Melbourne tram network, including to deliver level access tram stops on some of Melbourne’s busiest streets, including along High St in Northcote and Thornbury.

Planning for level access tram stops will also commence along Sydney Road, Brunswick and Coburg and Keilor Road, Niddrie.

The funding will also build a new substation at Wattle Park, Surrey Hills.

The new substation will have the energy to power larger trams along Route 70 – boosting capacity by more than 70 per cent.

The first 50 of Melbourne’s new G Class trams will progressively roll out on routes 57, 59 and 82 – delivering more comfortable and accessible journeys.

Additional G Class routes have now been confirmed, with the next 50 new trams set to take passengers on routes 12, 48 and 58.

As part of a $7.6 million package in public and active transport improvements, the Victorian Budget 2026-27 will also invest to deliver accessibility and safety upgrades to:

■ Clifton Hill Station

■ Northcote Station

■ Eaglemont Station

■ Donnybrook Station

■ Broadmeadows Station.

Clifton Hill, Northcote and Eaglemont stations will receive tactile ground surface indicators to boost safety for passengers with vision impairment.

Donnybrook Station will receive pedestrian safety upgrades and bicycle parking facilities – making it easier for people to get around.

Broadmeadows Station will also receive funding for amenity and safety upgrades.

Highway

is now better

■ Important road upgrades are now complete on the Bellarine Peninsula, improving safety for the thousands of motorists who travel through the area every day.

The project installed additional safety barriers along the Bellarine Highway and other safety measures at three key intersections at Swan Bay Road in Wallington, Greenside Grove in Moolap and Resort Boulevard in Moolap.

The Australian and Victorian governments each committed $4.29 million towards the $8.58 million works under the Road Safety Program.

Since construction began in 2025, crews have installed seven kilometres of safety barriers in Wallington and Moolap.

Additional safety measures included replacing the rightturn movements onto the Bellarine Highway at Swan Bay Road in Wallington and at Resort Boulevard in Moolap with U-turns.

A dedicated lane to slow down has also been installed 200 metres east of Swan Bay Road and 200 metres west of Resort Boulevard to improve safety.

The Bellarine Highway is a key route, with approximately 34,000 vehicles a day travelling along the highway through Moolap, while about 22,000 vehicles pass through Wallington.

Over the past seven years, there has been one fatal collision and several serious crashes.

‘Lots to love’

■ Mornington Central is celebrating the people and businesses behind the local community with its ‘Lots to Love’ live weekend on May 16–17. story for Melbourne Observer?

The event will feature performances from Mornington Peninsula musicians, retailer showcases and an interactive installation capturing real customer stories about what they love most about their local centre.

Bolstered with appearances from Chef Jerry Mai, one of the first chefs to bring authentic Vietnamese flavours to Melbourne's kitchens, alongside cheese and wine sessions and in-store tastings from local retailers.

Designed to bring the community together, the activation focuses on supporting local retailers and strengthening connections between businesses and shoppers.

Dandy Dance

■ Dandy Dance brings free multi-cultural dance workshops to Harmony Square this May

Harmony Square in Dandenong will come alive with rhythm, colour, and community spirit this May as Dandy Dance presents a vibrant program of free, inclusive dance workshops across two weekends.

Presented by Ausdance VIC in partnership with the City of Greater Dandenong, Dandy Dance celebrates cultural diversity through movement, inviting people of all ages and abilities to come together, learn new dance styles, and experience the joy of shared expression.

Running May 16-17, and May 23-24, from 10am–2.30pm daily, each session features leading local artists sharing dance traditions from around the world in a welcoming, family-friendly environment.

The program includes Bollywood dance with Shamita Siva, House with Monique Nightingale, Belly Dance with Azura , and contemporary Mexican movement with Elena Osalde

Each workshop offers participants the opportunity to explore different cultural styles while building confidence, creativity, and community connection through movement.

Designed to be inclusive and accessible, Dandy Dance encourages intergenerational participation and welcomes everyone - from experienced dancers to those trying something new for the first time.

The program highlights Dandenong as a thriving hub for arts and culture, showcasing the richness of the city’s diverse communities through shared creative experiences.

“ Dandy Dance is about bringing people together through the universal language of movement,” says Jordan Pollard , Programming Coordinator at Ausdance VIC. “It’s a celebration of culture, connection, and the joy of dancing together.”

All workshops are free to attend, with sessions suitable for all ages and experience levels.

Lang Lang upset

■ Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Brett Owen says the Council is disappointed with statements made by the Member for Bass, Jordan Crugnale , regarding Council’s advocacy for the Lang Lang bypass.

“ Council has enjoyed being part of productive conversations with State Government departments in recent years in an effort to progress plans for the bypass, and we remain committed to working together to make this project a reality,” Cr Owen said.

“Council is committed to playing its role in supporting the State Government's housing agenda, and understands the importance of Strategic Extractive Resource Areas (SERA), including the Lang Lang SERA, in providing resources to enable the building of new homes.

“We acknowledge that the State Government has approved an expansion of the Lang Lang SERA to allow more sand quarry activity in the Lang Lang area,” Cr Owen said.

Simeon Boyadjiev

■ A night of classic rock is what Simeon And The Solid Snake s will bring to life on each of Friday, June 26, and Saturday, June 27.

Think Toto, David Bowie, Yes, Pink Floyd, Boz Scaggs and many others whose timeless tracks will rock the Parish Hall , 52 James St Northcote, with doors opening 7.30 pm. Plus there’s a few original tunes also.

Simeon Boyadjiev is joined by a group of industry professional musicians who return to the Parish Hall for another night of nostalgia and to showcase some exceptional musicianship. Entrance $40 per person. BYO food and drink.

Bright Light

■ Melbourne’s Sri Lankan community have got behind a project in their mother country and in doing so supported ‘ Bright Light ’, a musical group made up of blind musicians and singers.

The first of its kind in Sri Lanka, it is the brainchild of entertainer and renowned performer Melantha Perera whose background involves voluntary teaching and working with underprivileged and special needs children.

Back here the go to man Esric Jackson, Mr Samath Fernando, Mr Ruwanal Senevirathne, Filo, Mr Reza Muthalif and many others have generously contributed to ensure the Bright Light stays shining.

Rob Foenander

THE 60 FOUR AT HAMER HALL

■ Hamer Hall was packed to the rafters for Morning Melodies featuring the fabulous, talented vocal group, The 60 Four.

The group's four personable young men wowed the crowd with their renditions of songs from the ‘60s and ‘70s, presenting hits from Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, The Beach Boys, Stevie Wonder, The Bee Gees, The Beatles, Johnny O’Keefe and more.

Dressed in era authentic slick blue jackets with black trim and narrow black ties and trousers, The 60 Four treated us to splendid harmonies and razor-sharp, energetic choreography for every up-tempo number..

The equally fabulous fourpiece backing band was led by musical director and keyboard player, Marco Callisto. Enhancing the band’s great sound was their obvious delight and enjoyment in accompanying The 60 Four.

The quartet introduced themselves during the showFinnegan Green, Lachlan Williams, Jack Conroy and Ben Francis , who is also the director. We heard that two of their Mums would be in the foyer post-show with The 60 Four merchandise.

Founded in 2015 by Ben Francis, Lachlan Williams, Kyle Charles Hall and Tom Russel, The 60 Four formed during a high school music class in Adelaide , when cabaret performer Michael Griffiths introduced the lads to ‘60s mu-

sic. Eleven years later, their experience gained from performing on cruise ships and in many concerts is obvious, resulting in a first-class, finely tuned act. The audience response left no doubt that they enjoyed the show as much as the performers.

The concert calendar for The 60 Four is busy this year, with shows scheduled for Victorian and other interstate venues. One highlight will be the group's proposed overseas trip to perform in the 2026 Edinburgh International Festival.

Bravo to The 60 Four and their band for a terrific show.

Congratulations also to Arts Centre Melbourne for presenting Morning Melodies for 41 years. The shows offer wonderful daytime entertainment, and the complimentary refreshments for audiences are not only greatly appreciated, but create pre-show goodwill and conviviality.

artscentremelbourne.com.au thesixtyfour.com

Review by Cheryl Threadgold

Gas Light

■ Gas Light resembles a classic Victorian melodrama: a nasty villain, a naïve young heroine, a clever Scotland Yard detective, and some oddball characters below stairs.

The play is set in the late-Victorian , upper-middle-class London home of Jack

Manningham (Paul Wanis) and his young wife, Bella (Freya Timmer-Arends)

Bella's domineering husband accuses Bella of things she cannot recall, such as removing a painting, misplacing a grocery bill, or hiding Jack’s cufflinks.

Jack tells Bella that she is going insane, just as her mother did.

Every time Jack departs for the evening, leaving Bella on her own, mysterious events happen.

She hears footsteps coming from the locked and empty fourth floor of the house.

The gas lights flicker and dim, only to return to strength as Jack returns.

Bella is at a loss to explain things and believes Jack may be right. She is indeed going mad.

How else could she account for such strange behaviour?

Enter Bella’s faithful maid Elizabeth (Freddie Moon), who insists that Bella meet with a mysterious stranger, Detective Rough (Giuseppe Mauceri) , who suggests that Jack is not who he seems.

Directed by Kym Davies, there is much wit and humour in Encore Theatre Company’s production.

Timmer-Arends delivers just the right amount of confusion and panic to her part as the baffled, terrified Bella Wanis plays Jack as a manipulative, scheming cad, whom the audience sees through from the start.

Mauceri’s detective, pointing out his “saucy shirt” to the dubious Bella , boasts about his lockpicking skills.

Scullery maid, Nancy (Caitlin Shepherd ), flirts and pouts through scenes.

Freddie Moon’s Elizabeth delivers some exquisite, deadpan comic moments as she tries to warn Detective Rough of Jack’s imminent return. Like the reworked The 39 Steps, Gas Light is a whodunit wrapped in moments of classic comedy.

Review by Kathryn Keeble

At Hamer Hall

■ Following sold-out performances across the UK, Ireland and Europe, the global concert sensation The Music of Hans Zimmer vs John Williams makes its highly anticipated Australian premiere this September, with two exclusive performances at Hamer Hall on Sunday, September 6. Tickets go on sale today (Wednesday, May 13).

Presented by John Foreman’s Australian Pops Orchestra and Sony Music Australia in their first-ever collaboration, this landmark event brings together the music of two of cinema’s most iconic composers — Hans Zimmer and John Williams — in a thrilling live concert experience.

Contributed

Siren

Yea Golf

■ Saturday saw the 4BBB Championships contested at Yea in ideal conditions with 30 players.

The Ladies Championship is named for Laraine Callandar/Lorraine Christie, two former Champions of the club.

Winners of the day with an outstanding 49 points were Di Elliott (29) and Vicki Clements (23). Second were last year’s winners Cindy Armstrong (29) and Judi Newman (38) with 46 points. Judi had the best individual score with 40 points from Di with 39. It was fabulous to have Laraine Callander present the winners with their trophies.

In the Mens Section, named after Rick Wills and Ross Davis , Paul Heyen(23) and Jim Redmond (23) combined for 47 points to win the Championship. This was Jim’s first board event win.

In second with 43 points were Alan (13) and Zach Pell (11). Alan won the NTP on the 18th and Paul won the individual stableford with 39 on CB from Alan.

Wednesday saw the men play a three person multiplied stableford event. Unfortunately for each team if one of the players had a pick-up then the team score for that hole was zero.

Winners of the 15 men who played were Kevin Coghlan (21), Mick Sheather (24) and Martin Lowe (15) with 128 points. Second were Phil Armstrong (19), Greg Clements (17) and Rob O’Halloran (21) with 117.

Greg was the best individual with 39 points from Martin on 38. Clint Rose was NTP on the 18th and Bob Glenister, Brian Priestley and Clint Rose took out the Club Award.

AFL

Round 8

Thursday, April 30

■ Collingwood vs. Hawthorn (MCG) (N)

Friday, May 1

■ Western Bulldogs vs. Fremantle (MRVL) (N)

■ Adelaide Crows vs. Port Adelaide (AO) (N)

Saturday, May 2

■ Essendon vs. Brisbane Lions (MRVL)

■ West Coast Eagles vs. Richmond (OS) (T)

■ Geelong Cats vs. North Melbourne (GMHBA) (T)

■ Carlton vs. St Kilda (MRVL) (N)

Sunday, May 3

■ Sydney Swans vs. Melbourne (SCG)

■ Gold Coast Suns vs. GWS Giants (PFS) (N)

Latest News

RSL vandalism

■ Two women have been charged by police after officers caught the pair defacing the Heidelberg RSL on ANZAC Day morning (Apr. 25).

The pair have both been charged with criminal damage, mark graffiti on property without consent and possess graffiti implement to mark graffiti.

Heidelberg Police members were on patrol when they spotted the duo allegedly spray painting a wall of the venue about 1.45am.

As soon as the women spotted police they ran from the scene in opposite directions.

The divisional van members, a constable and senior constable, split up and took off after the pair.

After a short foot chase the two women, aged 22 and 20-years-old, were arrested.

They have been bailed to appear before Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court on May 19.

Police are also investigating two other incidents where venues were vandalised sometime overnight. They include:

■ Damage to Reservoir RSL where offenders have graffitied and defaced the walls of the venue.

An incident at the RSL in Fawkner in Lorne St where graffiti was sprayed on the venue.

Scores from Saturday’s matches Scoreboard Amateurs

■ Premier. Round 2. Saturday, April 25. Old Brighton 17.10 (112) d St Kevin's 13.10 (88). St Bernard’s 9.11 (65) d Old Scotch 99 (63). University Vlues 11.u8 (74) d University Blacks 6.11 (47). Old Trinity 13.13 (91) d Old Xaverians 8.7 (55). Caulfield Grammarians 9.15 (69).

■ Premier Men’s Reserves. University Blacks 7.8 (50) d University Blues 7.2 (44). Old Brighton 7.10 (52) d St Kevin’s 6.6 (42). St Bernard’s v Old Scotch. Old Xaverians 20.6 (126) d Old Trinity 4.6 (30). Caulfield Grammarians 15.11 (101) d Old Haileybury 5.4 (34).

■ Premier B Men’s. De La Salle 16.12 (108) d Old Camberwell 7.8 (50). Collegians 16.10 (106) d Williamstown CYMS 8.11 (59). Beaumaris 16.16 (112) d Old Geelong 9.9 (63). Old Melburnians 13.10 (88) d Old Ivanhoe 9.10 (64). Old Carey 18.21 (129) d AJAX 11.11 (77).

■ Premier B Men’s Reserves. Old Carey 12.4 (76) d AJAX 5.10 (40). De La Salle 17.13 (115) d old Camberwell 2.10 (22). Collegians 14.19 (103) d Willimastown CYMS 4.3 (27). Old Geelong 10.10 (70) d beaumaris 5.8 (38). Old Melburnians 13.9 (87) d Old Ivanhoe 5.4 (34).

■ Premier C Men’s. Mazenod 16.15 (111) d Old Peninsula 11.10 (76). Fitzroy 12.8 (80) d Parkside Vultures 6.8 (44). Marcellin 15.12 (102) d Glen Eira/Old McKinnon 11.7 (73). St Bedes/Mentone Tigers 7.19 (61) d PEGS 6.8 (44). Hampton Rovers 22.14 (146) d Ormond 14.7 (91).

■ Premier C Men’s Reserves. Mazenod 16.17 (113) d Old Peninsula 4.3 (27). Fitzroy 18.13 (121) d Parkdale Vultures 3.3 (21). Hampton Rovers 10.9 (69) d Ormond 6.4 (40). Marcellin 7.9 (51) d Glen Eira/Old McKinnon 3.5 (23). St Bedes/Mentone Tigers 10.9 (69) d PEGS 4.7 (31).

■ Division 1 Seniors. St Mary’s 15.9 (99) d UHS-VU 10.7 (67). Prahran 12.7 (79) d Kew 7.9 951). Parkside 25.17 (167) d Old Yarra Cobras 4.7 (31). Brunswick 34 d Monash Blues 15, abandoned. Preston Bullants 15.10 (100) d Oakleigh 11.12 (78).

■ Division 1 Reserves. St Mary’s 13.13 (91) d UHS-VU 4.8 (32). Kew 13.4 (82) d Prahran 10.10 (70). Parkside 18.16 (124) d Old Yarra Cobras 3.1 (19). Monash Blues 14.16 (100) d Brunswick 3.5 (23). Preston Bullants 6.4 (40) d Oakleigh 3.17 (35).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Power house 18.16 (1240 d Aquinas 9.6 (60). Elsternwick 23.7 (145) d Therry Penola 10.5 (65). Canterbury 16.18 (114) d North Brunswick 9.14 (68). West Brunswick 7.15 957) d South Melbourne 7.12 (54). Whitefriars 12.16 (88) d MHSOB 8.11 (59).

■ Division 2 Reserves. Power House 14.19 (103) d Aquinas 1.6 (12). Therry Penola 7.5 (47) d Elsternwick 4.12 (36). Canterbury 17.15 (117) d North Brunswick 7.4 (46). West Brunswick 15.20 (110) d South Melbourne 3.3 (21). MHSOB 8.14 (62) d Whitefriars 7.4 (46).

■ Division 3 Seniors. Wattle Park 13.16 (214) d Albert Park 1.4 (10). Richmond Centrals 15.10 (100) d Hawthorn 8.;11 (59). La Trobe University: Bye.

■ Division 3 Reserves. Wattle Park 19.27 (141) d Albert Park 1.4 (10). Richmond Central 12.7 979) d Hawthorn 5.9 (39).

Eastern

■ Premier Division Seniors. Round 3. Balwyn 13.6 (84) d Berwick 7.16 (58). Doncaster East 21.10 (136) d South Belgrave 12.11 (83). East Ringwood 20.12 (132) d Noble Park 8.8 (56). Rowville 20.15 (135) d Vermont 11.9 975). Blackburn 17.6 (108) d South Croydon 13.8 (86).

■ Premier Division Reserves. Balwyn 10.19 (79) d Berwick 9.4 (58). South Belgrave 12.8 (80) d Doncaster East 7.6 (48). East Ringwood 9.10 (64) d Noble Park 4.6 (30). Rowville 7.12 (54) d Vermont 4.6 (30). Blackburn 12.18 (88) d South Croydon 4.10 934).

■ Premier Division Under 19.5. Balwyn 10.4 (64) d Berwick 8.13 (61). South Belgrave 15.19 (109) d Doncaster East 2.0 (12). Noble Park 11.12 (78) drew with East Ringwood 12.6 (78). Rowville 12.9 (81) d vermont 2.11 (23). Blackburn 19.11 (125) d South Croydon 3.8 (26).

■ Division 1 Seniors. Wantirna South 13.14 (92) d Beaconsfield 10.4 (64). Mitcham

22.15 (146) d Norwood 8.6 (54). Boronia 13.10 (88) d Mooroolbark 7.13 (55). North Ringwood 23.11 (149) d Bayswater 5.5 (35).

Park Orchards 18.14 (122) d Montrose 13.11 (89).

■ Division 1 Reserves. North Ringwood 11.17 (83) d Bayswater 5.6 (36). Boronia 18.19 (127) d Mooroolbark 3.0 (18). Park Orchards 10.13 (73) d Montrose 7.7 (49). Mitcham 12.13 (85) d Norwood 2.8 (20). Wantirna South 6.9 (45) d Beaconsfield 3.9 (27).

■ Division 1 Under 19.5. Montrose 9.13 (67) d Boronia 8.3 (51). Mitcham 8.15 (63) d Norwood 6.4 (40). North Ringwood 16.24 (120) d Bayswater/Heathmont 0.1 (1). Wantirna South 5.10 (40) d Beaconsfield 4.12 (36).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Ringwood 11.3 (69) d Heathmont 7.9 (51). Croydon 6.16 (52) d East Burwood 6.10 (46). Waverley Blues 11.12 (78) d Lilydale 11.8 (74). Mulgrave 19.15 (129) d Scoresby 8.9 (57). Templestowe 11.12 (78) d Surrey Park 10.11 (71).

■ Division 2 Reserves. Croydon 12.9 (81) d East Burwood 8.10 (58). Waverley Blues 9.9 (63) de Lilydale 6.2 (38). Ringwood 13.12 (90) d Heathmont 4.8 (32). Mulgrave 11.12 (78) d Scoresby 4.3 (27). Surrey Park 16.9 015) d Templestowe 3.5 (23).

■ Division 2 Under 19.5. Croydon 13.9 (87) d East Burwood 5.11 (41). Mulgrave 10.16 (76) d Scoresby 5.5 (35). Surrey Park 14.4 (88) d Templestowe 8.6 (54). Waverley Blues 14.27 (111) d Lilydale 0.7 (7). Bye: Ringwood.

■ Division 3 Seniors. Donvale 39.14 (248) d Whitehorse Pioneers 8.11 (59). Coldstream 14.8 (92) d Oakleigh District 10.9 969). The Basin 21.11 (137) d Ferntree Gully 4.5 (29). Upper Ferntree Gully 16.13 (109) d Silvan 10.9 (69). Bye: Knox.

■ Division 3 Reserves. Donvale 15.11 (101) d Whitehorse Pioneers 1.5 (11). Coldstream 25.16 (166) d Oakleigh District 2.1 (13). The Basin 9.12 (66) d Ferntree Gully 4.4 (28). Upper Ferntree Gully 14.12 (96) d Silkvan 6.6 (42). Bye: Knox.

■ Division 3 Under 19.5. Whitehorse Pioneers 10.16 (76) d Donvale 9.5 (59). Rowville v Upper Ferntree Gully. Knox 18.9 (117) d The Basin 3.3 (21).

■ Division 4 Seniors. Chirnside Park 14.14 (98) d Bulleen Templestowe 11.14 (80). Warrandyte 33.22 (220) d Forest Hill 4.4 (28). Kilsyth 32.21 (213) d Nunawading 6.11 (47). Fairpark 30.20 (200) d Croydon North MLOC 4.14 (38). Bye: Doncaster.

■ Division 4 Reserves. Kilsyth 15.14 (104) d Berwick Nunawading 0.1 (1). Chirnside Park 7.6 (49) d Bulleen Templestowe 4.5 (29). Warrandyte 16.21 (117) d Surrey Park Zebras 3.0 (18). Fairpark 10.10 (70) d Croydon North MLOC 4.13 (37).

■ Division 4 Under 19.5. Berwick White 12.5 (77) d Kilsyth 1.4 (10). Warrandyte 18.19 (127) d Montrose 1.6 (12). Bulleen Temoplestowe 23.26 (164) d Chirnside Park 0.0 (0). Croydon North MLOC 10.8 (68) d Fairpark 8.15 (63).

Essendon

■ Premier Division Seniors. Aberfeldie 25.12 (162) d Airport West 14.6 (90). Greenvale 12.11 (83) d Hillside 7.11 (53). Keilor 17.12 (114) d Pascoe Vale 12.15 (87). Strathmore 23.14 (152) d Deer Park 12.9 (81). Maribyrnong Park 20.5 (125) d Essendon Doutta Stars 14.13 (97).

■ Premier Division Reserves. Hillside 14.4 (88) d Greenvale 6.9 (45). Keilor 11.8 (74) d Pascoe Vale 7.6 (48). Essendon Doutta stars 7.7 (49) d Maribyrnong Park 7.6 (48). Strathmore 41.13 (259) d Deer Park 1.0 (6). Aberfeldie 17.8 (110) d Airport west 4.1 (25).

■ Division 1 Seniors. Craigieburn 14.16 (100) d Moonee Valley 10.6 (66). Avondale Heights 14.19 (103) d St Albans 13.14 (92). Tullamarine 12.8 (80) d Oak Park 6.10 (46). Taylors Lakes 24.13 (157) d East Keilor 9.5 (57). West Coburg 15.13 (103) d Rupertswood 10.7 (67).

■ Division 1 Reserves. West Coburg 19.18 (132) d Rupertswood 3.4 (22). Oak Park 10.5 (65) d Tullamarine 9.7 (61). Moonee Valley 12.14 (86) d Craigieburn 6.1 (37). Taylors Lakes 16.9 (105) d East Keilor 4.3 (27). Avondale Heights 15.8 (98) d St Albans 5.3 (33).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Roxburgh Park 14.14 (98) d Hadfield 12.9 (81). Coburg Districts 22.10 (142) d Burnside Heights 13.11 (89). East Sunbury 17.14 (116) d Sunbury Kangaroos 12.13 (85). Keilor Park 14.10 (94) d

Northern Saints 12.6 (78).Glenroy 17.15 (117) d Westmeadows 10.6 (66).

■ Division 2 Reserves. Westmeadows 12.10 982) d Glenroy 6.10 (46).

16.12

Mornington

■ Division 1 Seniors . Devon Meadows 11.14 (80) d Edithvale-Aspendale 9.10 (64). Langwarrin 20.18 (138) d Sorrento 7.10 (52). Mt Eliza 16.17 (113) d Mornington 9.11 (65). Frankston YCw 15.9 (99) d Pines 9.6 (60). Sunday, April 26: Dromana v Rosebud.

■ Division 1 Reserves . EdithvaleAspendale 20.10 (130) d Devon Meadows 1.1 (7). Mt Eliza 13.13 (91) d Mornington 7.10 (52). Frankston YCW 12.10 (82) d Pines 7.4 (46). Langwarrin v Sorrento. Sunday, April 26: Dromana v Rosebud.

■ Division 1 Under 19 . Edithvale-Aspendale 19.17 (131) d Devon Meadows 4.2 (26). Mornington v Mt Eliza. Frankston YCW 21.16 (142) d Pines 4.3 (27). Langwarrin 25.12 (162) d Sorrento 1.1 (7). Sunday, April 26: Dromana v Rosebud.

■ Division 2 Seniors . Somerville 12.27 (99) d Bonbeach 10.8 (68). Frankston Bombers 15.14 (104) d Hastings 9.3 (57). Karingal 13.12 (90) d Tyabb 7.9 (51). Rye 8.20 (68) d Pearcedale 6.16 (52). Red Hill 13.11 (89) d Crib Point 10.13 (73). Chelsea 14.16 (100) d Seaford 11.10 (76).

■ Division 2 Reserves . Somerville 21.15 (141) d Bonbeach 2.2 (14). Karingal 13.8 (86) d Tyabb 4.9 (33). Red Hill 10.16 (76) d Crib Point 6.4 (40). Seaford 13.7 (85) d Chelsea 4.4 (28). Frankston Bombers 14.11 (95) d Hastings 1.1 (7). Rye 6.7 (43) d Pearcedale 6.5 (41).

■ Division 2 Under 19 . Somerville 9.14 (68) d Bonbeach 6.10 (46). Frankston Bombers 17.16 (118) d Karingal 1.2 (8). Seaford 14.7 (91) d Chelsea 7.6 (48). Rye 9.11 (65) d Pearcedale 8.7 (55). Red Hill 11.8 (74) d Crib Point 5.10 (40). Bye: Hastings, Tyabb. ■ Thirds . Crib Point 7.10 (52) d Rosebud 2.8 (20). Edithvale-Aspendale 12.14 (86) d Devon Meadows 2.5 (17). Pines 6.8 (44) d Frankston YCW 4.3 (27). Somerville 9.7 (61) d Langwarrin 3.3 (21). Mornington 10.19 (79) d Pearcedale 1.10 (16).

Northern

■ Division 1 Seniors. Heidelberg 16.22 (118) d Banyule 9.8 (62). Eltham 13.14 992) d Montmorency 10.11 (71). North Heidelberg 15.10 (100) d West Preston Lakeisde 7.13 (55). Hurstbirdge 11.8 (74) d Greensborough 8.8 (56). Diamond Creek 5.4 (34) d Bundoora 4.6 (30).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Heidelberg 8.14 (62) d Banyule 5.7 (37). Montmorency 19,4 (118) d Eltham 11.6 (72). North Heidelberg 16.15 (111) d West Preston Lakeside 4.8 (32). Greensbroough 14.8 (92) d Hurstbridge 12.7 (79). Diamond Creek 13.11 (89) d Bundoora 3.1 (19).

■ Division 1 Under 19.5. Eltham 16.9 (105) d Montmorency 8.5 (53). St Mary’s 10.16 (76) d Diamond Creek 8.11 (59). Hurstbridge 11.14 (80) d Greensborough 8.11 (59). Heidelberg 18.15 (123) d Banyule 2.6 (18). Bye: North Heidelberg.

■ Division 2 Seniors. Fitzroy Stars 14.16 (100) d Thomastown 13.6 (84). Northcote Park 11.12 (78) d Macleod 9.9 (63). Whittlesea 15.11 (101) d Old Paradians 5.13 (43). St Mary’s 19.11 (125) d Panton Hill 8.8 (56). South Morang 14.14 (98) d Lower Plenty 13.18 (96).

■ Division 2 Reserves. Thomastown 9.8 (62) d Fitzroy Stars 8.9 (57). Macleod17.13 (115) d Northcote Park 8.6 (54). Whittlesea 13.11 (89) d Old Paradians 7.11 (53). St Mary’s 12.10 (82) d Panton Hill 3.10 (28). South Morang 13.10 (88) d Lower Plenty 11.7 (73).

■ Division 2 Under 19.5. South Morang 17.18 (120) d Old Paradians 4.2 (26). Laurimar 16.23 (119) d Macleod 1.5 (11). Whittlesea 16.19 (115) d Bundoora 6.9 (45).

■ Division 3 Seniors. Watsonia 13.12 (90) d Epping 7.10 (52). Heidelberg West 8.12 (60) d Kilmore 7.11 (53). Laurimar 29.15 (189) d Kinglake 4.7 (31). Old Eltham Collegians 12.22 (94) d Lalor 6.8 (44). Ivanhoe 23.16 (154) d Reservoir 6.8 (44). Mernda; Bye.

■ Division 3 Reserves. Watsonia 12.7 (79)

Footy results from across Victoria

d Epping 7.10 (52). Heidelberg West 9.5 (59) d Kilmore 8.5 (53). Laurimar 30.21 (201) d Kinglake 0.6 (6). Lalor 12.10 (82). Old Eltham Collegians 12.6 (78) d Lalor 12.10 (82). Ivanhoe 22.11 (143) d Reservoir 1.9 (15). Bye: Mernda.

■ Division 3 Under 19.5. Lower Plenty 14.12 (96) d Eltham 10.5 (65). Watsonia 18.11 (119) d Epping 8.9 (57). Heidelberg 20.14 (134) d Kinglake 0.2 (2). Panton Hill; Bye.

Outer East

■ Premier Division Seniors. Wandin 12.9 (81) d Officer 9.9 (63). Woori Yallock 15.9 (99) d Monbulk 4.8 (32). Mt Evelyn 20.13 (133) d Gembrook Cockatoo 5.6 (36). Healesville 16.20 (116) d Warburton Millgrove 11.6 (72). Olinda Ferny Creek 12.10 (82) d Upwey Tecoma 9.11 (65).

■ Premier Division Reserves. Mt Evelyn 17.15 (117) d Gembrook Cockatoo 1.4 (10). Healesville 11.12 (78) d Warburton-Millgrove 7.6 (48). Upwey-Tecoma 11.7 (73) d Olinda Ferny Creek 5.5 (35). Officer 8.16 (64). Wandin 4.3 (27). Woori Yallock 11.9 (75) drew with Monbulk 12.3 (75).

■ Division 1 Seniors. Alexandra 24.9 9153) d Yea 8.6 (54). Seville 35.18 (228) d Yarra Junction 0.3 (3). Emerald 17.9 (111) d Belgrave 11.10 (76). Pakenham 9.15 (69) d Yarra Glen 4.6 (30). Bye: Powelltown.

■ Division 2 Reserves. Alexandra 13.15 993) d Yea 1.6 (12). Seville 19.18 (132) d Yarra Junction 2.4 (16). Emerald 9.10 (64) d Belgrave 4.6 (30). Pakenham 24.20 (164) d Yarra Glen 1.1 (7). Bye: Powelltown.

■ Under 18 Boys. Mt Evelyn 15.15 (105) d Gembrook Cockatoo 1.4 (10). Healesville 22.10 (142) d Warburton Millgrove 1.1 (7). Officer 13.7 (85) d Wandin 4.6 (30). Upwey Tecoma 9.12 (66) d Olinda Ferny Creek 9.6 (60). Monbulk 15.19 (109) d Alexandra 0.4 (4). Seville 9.5 (59) d Woori Yallock 3.11 (29). Pakenham 15.13 (103) d Yarra Glen 4.2 (26).

■ Division 1 Senior Women’s. Mt Evelyn 17.23 (125) d Pakenham 2.1 (13). Olinda Ferny Creek 6.4 (40) d Upwey-Tecoma 5.6 (36). Warburton-Wesburn 6.5 (41) d Healesville 2.7 (31). Belgrave: Belgrave.

■ Division 2 Senior Women’s. Emerald 11.21 (87) d Gembrook Cockatoo 1.1 (7). Seville 8.10 (58) d Woori Yallock 1.2 (8). Wandin 5.7 (37) d Officer 1.7 (13). Yea 19.15 (129) d Thornton Eildon 19.15 (128).

Southern

■ Division 1 Seniors. Cheltenham 22.15 (147) d Bentleigh 11.14 (80). Dingley 7.15 957) d Narre Warren 5.16 (46). Hampton Park 18.18 (126) d Port Melbourne 13.12 (90). Springvale 14.10 (94) d Cranbourne Eagles 14.8 (92). Murrumbeena 11.12 (78) drew with St Paul’s McKinnon 11.12 (78).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Bentleigh 18.18 (125) d Cheltenham 4.4 (28). Narre Warren 13.14 (92) d Dingley 0.3 (3). Hampton Park 13.9 (87) d Port Melbourne Colts 9,.6 (60). Springvale Districts 11.3 (69) d Cranbourne Eagles 3.3 (21). Murrumbeena 19.22 (136) d St Paul’s McKinnon 2.4 (16).

■ Division 2 Seniors. Mordialloc 5.9 (39) d Chelsea Heights 5.4 (34). Caulfield Bears 17.11 (113) d Keysborough 17.9 (111). Frankston Dolphins 20.22 (142) d East Brighton 5.10 (04). East Malvern 16.20 (116) d Doveton Doves 4.5 (29). Highett 11.14 (80) d Hampton 7.7 (49).

■ Division 2 Reserves. Mordialloc 12.5 (77) d Chelsea heights 2.2 (14). Caulfield Bearts 13.7 (85) d Keysborough 2.2 (14). Frankston Dolphins 13.15 (93) d East Brighton 4.8 (32). East Malvern 11.12 (78) d Doveton Doves 3.6 (24). Highett 17.16 (118) d Hampton 0.3 (3).

■ Division 3 Seniors. Skye 12.11 (83) d Carrum Patterson Lakes 7.15 (57). Heatherton 19.11 (125) d Black Rock 14.8 (92). St Kilda City 14.15 (99) d Berwick Springs 12.14 (86). Endeavour Hills 22.19 (151) d hallam 4.6 (30). Lyndhurst 14.15 (99) d South Mornington 10.8 (68).

■ Division 3 Reserves. Skye 17.7 (109) d Carrum Patterson Lakes 5.8 (38). Black Rock 9.15 (69) d Heatherton 5.7 937). Berwick Springs 9.11 (65) d St kilda city 5.4 (34). Endeavour Hills 14.7 (91) d Hallam 6.6 (42). South Mornington 13.4 (82) d Lyndhurst 8.6 (54).

■ Division 4 Seniors. Dandenong West 18.11 (119) d Ashwood 6.4 (40). Narre Warren Saints 6.13 (49) d Clayton 4.13 (37). Lyndale 19.13 (127) d Moorabbin Kangaroos 10.8 (68). St John’s 17.19 (121) d

Doveton Eagles 9.6 (60).

■ Division 4 Reserves. Ashwood 9.7 (61) d Dandenong West 8.7 (55). Clayton 14.13 (97) d Narre South Saints 5.8 (38). Lyndale 33.12 (210) d Moorabbin Kangaroos 2.4 (16). St John’s OC 11.12 (78) d Doveton Eagles 5.1 (31).

■ Open Grade. Endeavour Hills 6.6 (42) d Pakenham 5.10 (40). Mordialloc 8.9 (57) d South Yarra 2.3 (15). Skye 8,.10 (58) d Murrumbenna 2.6 (18). Black Rock 5.5 (35) d Springvale Districts 3.6 (24). Bye: Lyndhurst.

■ Under 19. Division 2. Highett 11.13 (79) d Carrum Patterson Lakes 3.2 (20). Lyndhurst v Cranbourne. Narre Warren 2 14.14 (98) d Ashwood 1.9 (15). Frankston Dolphins 17.11 (113) d South Mornington 4.4 (28). Endeavour Hills 8.10 (58) d Keysborough 4.8 (32).

Western

■ Division 1 Seniors. Caroline Springs 15.9 999) d Yarraville Seddon Eagles 7.12 (54). Parkside 20.12 (132) d Newport 6.7 Z(43).

Werribee Districts 14.11 (95) d Hoppers Crossing 8.6 (54). Point Cook 16.8 (104) d Point Cook Centrals 5.8 (38). Albion 16.10 (106) d Sunshine 13.6 (84). Spotswood 16.15 (111) d Altona 6.13 (49).

■ Division 1 Reserves. Werribee Districts 26.19 (175) d Hoppers Crossing 1.3 (9). Sunshine 10.7 (67) d Albion 5.7 (37). Caroline Springs 8.10 (58) d Yarraville Seddon Eagles 8.3 (51). Spotswood 14.4 (88) d Altona 9.9 (63). Parkside 14.11 (95) d Newport 7.6 (48). Point Cook 11.15 (81) d Point Cook Centrals 5.4 (34).

■ Division 1 Under 18. Point Cook 10.8 968) d Sunshine 5.6 (36). Spotswood 16.21 (117) d Altona 4.1 (25). Werribee Districts 17.11 (113) d Hoppers Crossing 5.4 (34). Sunday, April 26: Newport v Yarraville Seddon Eagles.

■ Division 2 Seniors. North Footscray 13.14 (92) d West Footscray 8.6 (54). Albanvale 26.8 (184) d Western Rams 6.10 946). Braybrook 17.19 (121) d Suns 9.11 (65). Laverton Magpies 12.8 (80) d Tarneit 11.8 (74).Wyndhamvale 15.15 9105) d Sunshine Heights 12.6 (78).

■ Division 2 Reserves. North Footscray 9.10 (64) d West Footscray 3.3 (21). Albanvale 23.12 (150) d Western Rams 5.5 (35). Suns 23.21 (159) d Braybrook 4.5 (29). Laverton Magpies 5.11 (41) d Tarneit 5.5 (35). Wyndhamvale 22.11 (143) d Sunshine Heights 0.0 (0).

■ Division 2 Under 18. Caroline Springs 22.11 (143) d Wyndhamvale 1.5 (11). Spotswood 25.16 (166) d Sunshine 2.2 (14). Werribee Districts 28.30 (198) d Hoppers Crossing 2.1 (13). Tarneit 9.13 (67) d Newport 4.6 (30). Point Cook Centrals 12.11 (83) d Point Cook 9.8 (62). Albion: Bye.

■ Thirds. Caroline Springs 10.9 (69) d Manor Lakes 4.8 (32). Glen Orden 19.17 (131) d North Sunshine 5.1 (31). Sunshine 9.4 (58) d Werribee Centrals 7.7 (49). Spotswood 10.8 (68) d Truganina 6.2 (38). North Footscray 4.8 (32) d West Footscray 4.5 (290. Wyndhamvale 19.15 (129) d Point Cook 1.2 (8).

Goulburn Valley

■ Seniors. Seymour 21.9 (135)d Euroa 12.14 (86). Shepparton 20.13 (133) d Shepparton Swans 6.11 (47). Rochester 19.14 (122) d Tatura 3.5 (25). Benalla 9.10 (64) d Mansfield 6.12 (48). Echuca 12.11 (83) d Kyabram 11.8 (74). Mooroopna 10.5 (65) d Shepparton United 8.10 (58).

■ Reserves. Seymour 17.14 9116) d Euroa 1.3 (9). Shepparton 16.16 (112) d Shepparton Swans 2.0 (12). Rochester 11.20 (86) d tatura 4.4 (28). Mansfield 10.14 (74) d Benalla 3.14 (32). Echuca 10.7 (67) d Kyabram 6.3 (39). Shepparton United 16.7 (103) d Mooroopna 4.4 (28).

■ Under 18. Seymour 11.2 (68) d Euroa 3.7 (25). Shepparton 25.15 (165) d Shepparton Swans 3.1 919). Tatura 15.14 (104) d Rochester 2.4 (16). Benalla 10.9 (69) d Mansfield 8.l9 (57). Echuca 10.12 (72) d Kyabram 5.5 (35). Shepparton United 16.5 (101) d Mooroopna 9.9 (63).

Ovens & King

■ Seniors. Whorouly 16.19 (115) d Bonnie Doon 9.5 (59).

■ Reserves. Whorouly 14.6 (90) d Bonnie Doon 8.7 (55).

Riddell District

■ Seniors. Macedon 18.8 (116) d Riddell 12.12 (84). Woodend-Hesket 21.11 (137)

d Gisborne Giants 17.11 (113). Wallan 20.17 9137) d Melton South 10.10 (70). Kyneton 19.20 (134) d Lancefield 6.7 (43). Bye: Diggers Rest, Melton Centrals, Romsey.

■ Reserves. Macedon 22.8 (140) d Riddell 0.4 (4). Gisborne Giants 10.11 (71) d Woodend-Hasket 8.5 (53). Wallan 7.17 (59) d Melton South 4.5 (290. Kyneton 7.8 (50) d Lancefield 7.3 (45). Bye: Diggers Rest, Melton Centrals, Romsey.

■ Under 19.5. Macedon 9.13 (67) d Riddell 2.9 (21). Wallanc 11.13 (79) d Melton South 4.7 (31). Gisborne Giants 11.8 (74) d Woodend-Hesket 6.8 (44). Kyneton 19.13 (127) d Lancefield 1.1 (7). Bye: Melton Centrals, Romsey.

Bendigo

■ Seniors. South Bendigo 14.8 (92) d Eaglehawk 10.15 (75).

■ Reserves. South Bendigo 11.12 (78) d Eaglehawk 5.4 (34).

■ Under 18. South Bendigo 19.17 131) d Eaglehawk 2.0 (12).

Ballarat

■ Seniors. Darley 25.9 (159) d Bacchus Marsh 9.3 (57). Ballarat 15.11 (101) d Lake Wemndouree 5.14 (44). Melton 19.11 (125) d Sunbury 6.6 (42). Sebastopol 25,14 (164) d Redan 9.6 (60). Sunday, April 26: North Ballarat v East Point.

■ Reserves. Bacchus Marsh 8.11 (59) d Darley 6.5 (41). Ballarat 16.14 (110) d Lake Wendouree 5.3 (33). Sunbury 8.8 (56) d Melton 6.2 (38). Sebastopol 14.10 (94) d Redan 3.4 (22). Sunday, April 26: North Ballarat v East Point.

■ Under 18. Sunbury 25.18 (168) d Melton 6.5 (41). Redan 15,.6 (96) d Sebastopol 8.6 (54). Darley 8.6 (54) d Bacchus Marsh 7.8 (50). Ballarat 14.16 (100) d Lake Wendouree 2.1 (13). Sunday, April 26: North Ballarat v East Point.

Geelong & District

■ Seniors. Anakie 16.15 (111) d GW Giants 6.20 (56). North Geelong 15.10 (100) d East Geelong 11.11 (77). Bannockburn 12.18 (90) d Inverleigh 12.8 (80). Belmont Lions 18.20 (128) d Thomson 3.9 (27). Werribee Centrals 11.18 (84) d Bell Post Hill 7.10 (52). Winchelsea 17.20 (122 d Corio 8.2 (50).

■ Reserves. East Geelong 6.12 (48) d North Geelong 1.4 (10). Bannockburn 10.8 (68) d Inverleigh 6.5 (41). Anakie 12.9 (81) d GW Giants 2.8 (20). Blemont Lions 25.10 (160) d Thomson 3.5 (23). Bell Post Hill 9.11 (65) d Werribee Centrals 6.10 (46). Winchelsea 14.12 (101) d Corio 3.5 (23).

Latest News

Assault on tram

■ Police have arrested a man following an alleged assault on a tram in Melbourne on Saturday evening.

Transit Safety Division officers have been told a man approached another man and woman on a Route 72 tram near the intersection of St Kilda Rd and Coventry St about 6.50pm.

It is alleged the offender was behaving erratically before producing a small steak knife.

The man and woman attempted to calm the man down but he produced a hammer and hit the victims a number of times.

They managed to hold him down until police arrived and took a 37-year-old man from St Kilda into custody.

He was police with their enquires.

A 48-year-old man and a 43-year-old woman, both from Doreen , suffered minor injuries and were taken to hospital for observations.

Ravenhall fatality

■ A man has died following a collision in Ravenhall on Saturday morning.

Investigators have been told four men were riding motorcycles outbound along the Western Fwy.

It’s believed a car veered across the freeway lanes just after Christies Rd before stopping on the freeway.

Two of the motorcycle riders collided with the car.

Amateurs

■ Premier. Round 3. Saturday, May 2. Old Scotch v Old Xaverians. Caulfield Grammarians v University Blues. Old Haileybury v Old Brighton. St Kevin's v St Bernard's. University Blacks v Old Trinity.

■ Premier B Men’s. Round 3. Saturday, May 2. Collegians v Beaumaris. Old Ivanhoe v Old Camberwell. Old Melburnians v AJAX. Old Carey v De La Salle. Old Geelong v Williamstown CYMS.

■ Premier C Men’s. Round 3. Saturday, May 2. Hampton Rovers v Fitzroy. Glen Eira / Old McKinnon v Ormond. Mazenod OC v PEGS. Parkdale Vultures v Old Peninsula. St Bedes/ Mentone Tigers v Marcellin.

■ Division 1. Round 3. Saturday, May 2. Parkside v Kew. Oakleigh v Old Yarra Cobras. Prahran v Monash Blues. Preston Bullants v UHS-VU. Brunswick v St Mary's Salesian.

■ Division 3. Round 3. Saturday, May 2. North Brunswick v South Melbourne. Elsternwick v Canterbury. MHSOB v Aquinas. West Brunswick v Whitefriars. Power House v Therry Penola.

Eastern

■ Premier Division. Seniors. Round 4. Saturday, May 2. Balwyn v Vermont. South Croydon v Berwick. East Ringwood Men v Blackburn. Doncaster East v Noble Park.

■ Division 1. Seniors. Round 4. Saturday, May 2. Bayswater v Mooroolbark. Beaconsfield v Park Orchards. Mitcham v North Ringwood. Norwood v Boronia. Wantirna South v Montrose.

■ Division 2. Seniors. Round 4. Saturday, May 2. Croydon v Templestowe. East Burwood v Lilydale. Heathmont v Scoresby. Surrey Park v Ringwood. Waverley Blues v Mulgrave./ ■ Division 3. Seniors. Round 4. Saturday, May 2. Upper Ferntree Gully v Coldstream. Ferntree Gully v Knox. The Basin v Oakleigh District. Donvale v Silvan. Bye: Whitehorse Pioneers.

■ Division 4. Seniors. Round 4. Saturday, May 2. Fairpark v Bulleen Templestowe. Kilsyth v Forest Hill. Chirnside Park v Nunawading. Doncaster v Warrandyte. Bye: Croydon North MLOC.

Essendon

■ Premier Division. Seniors. Round 2. Saturday, May 2. Greenvale v Strathmore. Airport West v Hillside. Deer Park v Maribyrnong Park. Essendon Doutta Stars v Keilor. Pascoe Vale v Aberfeldie.

■ Division 1. Seniors. Round 2. Saturday, May 2. Avondale Heights v Rupertswood. Taylors Lakes v St Albans. Moonee Valley v East Keilor. West Coburg v Tullamarine. Oak Park v Craigieburn.

■ Division 2. Seniors. Round 2. Saturday, May 2. Northern Saints v Coburg Districts. Sunbury Kangaroos v Keilor Park. East Sunbury v Burnside Heights. Hadfield v Glenroy. Westmeadows v Roxburgh Park.

Southern

■ Division 1. Seniors. Round 4. Saturday, May 2. Hampton Park v Dingley. Cranbourne Eagles v Narre Warre. Port Melbourne Colts v Springvale Districts. Bentleigh v Murrumbeena.

■ Division 2. Seniors. Round 4. Saturday, May 2. East Malvern v Caulfield Bears. Frankston Dolphins v Keysborough. Hampton v East Brighton. Doveton Doves v Mordiallo. Chelsea Heights v Highett.

■ Division 3. Seniors. Round 4. Saturday, May 2. South Mornington v St Kilda City. Berwick Springs v Hallam. Carrum Patterson Lakes v Endeavour Hills. Black Rock v Skye. Lyndhurst v Heatherton.

Western

■ Division 1. Seniors. Round 4. Saturday, May 2. Altona v Caroline Springs. Albion v Point Cook Centrals. Newport v Hoppers Crossing. Werribee Districts v Point Cook. Sunshine v Parkside. Yarraville Seddon Eagles v Spotswood.

MELBOURNE CUP TICKET ON OFFER

■ One thoroughbred displaying great stamina will have its destiny determined at Flemington this Saturday (May 16).

Victory in the A ndrew Ramsden over 2800 metres, will earn the winner a Golden Ticket into Australia’s greatest race, the Melbourne Cup.

Only 11 tickets are available to be won, three of which are allocated overseas.

Forming part of the prize to raise the profile of our treasured race on the world stage are the Belmont Gold Cup (USA), Ebor Handicap (UK) and Prix Kergolay (France)

Of the other eight qualifying races this year, only two will be held at tracks other than Flemington.

These are the Caulfield Cup and Geelong Cup

With Moonee Valley undergoing a redevelopment, both the W. S. Cox Plate and Moonee Valley Gold Cup will be run at Flemington .

The Roy Higgins, Andrew Ramsden, Archer Stakes and Bart Cummings are the usual four Flemington events.

Whisky On The Hill has already secured his ticket to compete in the 2026 Melbourne Cup , having won the Roy Higgins over 2600 metres in March.

A large field for the Andrew Ramsden is expected, as there are a number of gallopers whose connections would rightly believe they have the horse to win.

Consider the credentials of these promising stayers:

Paradise Storm

Won a few races in France before coming to Australia to continue his career. Was spelled following back-to-back victories at Morphettville and Sandown . Returned to racing well enough for connections to travel with him to New Zealand in March. That hit and run mission paid dividends, as he blew away the opposition in the Auckland Cup over 3200 metres. Has since finished a close third in the Roy Higgins when carrying the top weight. This gelding is a serious Melbourne Cup prospect.

Highland Bling Has made great progress since arriving in Australia from Ireland . Won at Flemington over 2550 metres prior to a narrow defeat at Moonee Valley over 3000 metres late last year. Was then spelled and has come back in fine form. His past two starts have been over 3200 metres. Beaten in a photo finish by American Wolf in the Adelaide Cup, he followed that with a close third to Changingoftheguard in the Sydney Cup . Would become a live chance in the Melbourne Cup if he could win his way into the race.

American Wolf

Promising young stayer who narrowly defeated Litzdeel in the VRC St Leger at Flemington over 2800 metres as a threeyear-old. Now a four-year-old, he just prevailed over Highland Bling in a nail-biting finish to the Adelaide Cup . Come November, as a five-year-old, further improvement could see him right amongst the Cup chances.

Litzdeel

Won at Flemington over 2800 metres during the Cup Carnival last spring. Was a close second to Whisky On The Hill in the Roy Higgins recently. Followed that with a

Rod Basto

run in the Sydney Cup when just behind the placegetters. Only a four-year-old mare and is a half-sister to 2019 Melbourne Cup winner Vow And Declare, so still developing. Clearly has staying ability and would be an Australian -bred hope if she could make it all the way to Cup Day

Basilinna

Won this race last year but was unable to contest the Melbourne Cup due to requiring surgery for bone chips. She’s had a few runs back now and ought to be ready to attempt back-to-back wins. Victory would ensure she takes her place in the Cup field this year barring any unforeseen circumstances.

Newlook

Originally from France where he won over 2500 metres at Longchamp and

Deauville . Finished strongly to win the Chairmans Quality over 2600 metres at Randwick . Then hit the front too far from home in the Sydney Cup when unplaced. Also, that was on a good surface, and all his wins so far have been on wet tracks. Must be respected in anything he contests if there is rain around.

Alainge

Including this South Australian stayer may appear a little surprising. However, she got too far back and was pushed very wide when finishing off nicely for fifth in the Adelaide Cup , albeit a long way off the first two. She has since won her past couple of starts at Morphettville over 2535 metres and then 2518 metres in the Port Adelaide Cup . It is worth noting that the past two winners of the Andrew Ramsden have come off Port Adelaide Cup wins.

Kings Valley

Bred in Ireland and placed on a couple of occasions in England . Has won six races in Australia. His two most recent successes were in the Bairnsdale Cup and then Mornington Cup over 2400 metres at his latest outing. Only time will tell if he can run further.

Sea What I See Ultra-consistent grey mare who just whacked away last time when third home in the Port Adelaide Cup. Worked early to find the front and run down in the straight when a close fourth in the Mornington Cup before that. Another who may not find the necessary improvement required with a step up in trip.

Horses To Follow

■ Ertijaaj, Ulfberht, Cabriole and Magiconi

Racing Calendar

■ Wednesday, May 13: Bendigo

■ Thursday, May 14: Werribee

■ Friday, May 15: Kilmore, Pakenham

■ Saturday, May 16: Flemington, Wodonga

■ Sunday, May 17: Casterton, Sale

■ Monday, May 18: Stawell

■ Tuesday, May 19: Ballarat

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Why are the ads free? What’s the catch? There is no catch - all standard text ads are 100% free for private advertisers. When you lodge your free ad, you never receive a bill from us. Your ad can be up to 40 words. Simply follow the instructions. How do you make money if the ads are free? Free-ad papers make money by selling business advertising.

How do I lodge a Free Photo Ad? How do I get the photo to you? Go to www.AdvertiseFree.com.au - the form gives you instructions on how to attach the photo.

ALL CAR advertisers must supply registration or Vehicle Identification Numbers. By law, we are unable to publish listings without those details.

BOOKS. 10. Peter Fitzsimons. Hard cover. All different titles. VGC. $100. Brookfield. 0415 562 593.Q-W

CARAVAN. Royal Flair Poptop. Double bed,c addon annexe, gas cooking grill. Three-way fridge. Micro TV video. Innerspring mattress. Handles well. Compact. New awning. Reg 2027: PO3930. 15 ft long. VGC. $9500. Euroa. 0455 267 422.Q-W

CHEVROLET. 1991. Camaro RS Coupe. White in colour. Auto. 5-litre V8. Low miles. Targo top. EC. Club rego: H6193. $32,000. Viewbank. 0407 403 507.Q-W

COAT. Women’s. Gold velour. Size 18. GC. $80. Greensborough. 0433 366 628. Q-W

COAT. Women’s. Navy blue, double breasted, wool blend. Size 16-18. FC. $70. Greensborough. 0433 366 628. Q-W

DINGHY. Walker Bay. Ideal for a tender from a larger boat. Can take a 3HP motor. FC. Comes without oars or row locks. $300 or best offer. Sorrento. 0418 311 195.

DINING CHAIRS. Parker. 6. Solid vintage frames, FC. Upholstery could use a clean or recover but structurally sound. Great project for restoration or retro dining setup. Selling as set of six. Pickup required. Message if interested. $1000. Greensborough. 0433 366 628.Q-W

DVDs. 350+. Some new. Hot Rod Street Classic, Motor Bike Shows. 1956 up to 2020 movies. Cars, war, romance, Aussie crime, Western, Nature. Box sets. VHS. Planet of the Apes. More. Also Cassettes, Music. VGC. $150 or best offer. Healesville. 5962 6219.Q-W

DOLL MAKING PARAPHERNALIA. Lots of wigs, shoes, hand made clothes. UFOs, etc. New cond. $250. Whittlesea. 716 1881.H-K

ELECTRIC MIXMASTER. Pasta making machine including big bowls for mixing flkour. $20. Electric fan for summer, portable, large, $20. Terra cotta cooking pot with lid. Ladies shoes, new, never been worn. Medium heels, size 38, In box. Black. $140. Exhaust fan. For ceiling mounting,c electric, Austral brand. $25. East Bentleigh. 9503 8686. Q-W

FIREPLACE GUARD. Black, metal. 800mm wide, with 2 folding side panels at 300mm. GC. $30. Greensborough. 0433 366 628.Q-W

LOUNGE SUITE. 3-piece top quality luxury leather. Light cream Moran pillow type. Unused Lounge. $1800. Armchairs, $990 each. 2 throws and 2 pillows included. Essendon area. 0419 384 496. Q-W

MOBILITY SCOOTER. Pathrider 140 XL. Has lights, rear vision mirror, shopping basket on the front, shopping bag on the back. Complete with charger, sturdy scooter. VGC. $2100. Tootgarook/ Rye. 0415 801 782 K-N

MOBILITY SCOOTER. Freedom Odyssey Plus, as new, 2 batteries, fully charged. Manual with instructions and invoice. Not needed anymore. Can inspect anytime. EC. $1800. Heidelberg. 0429 054 065.H-K

PLANTS. Indoor Outdoor Ground Covers. Stags, Bird of Paradise, Succulents, Ferns, Hydrangeas, more. Come and see. Very cheap. VGC. Noble Park. 0407 325 030.I-L

PLUMBING DOWNPIPE. Colourbond Steel. 100x50mm. Four lengths at 1.8 metres. Yea. 0418 109 887. O-S

REGISTRATION

PLATES. Personalised. ‘MISUBI’. Slimline. B&W. VGC. $550. Frankston. 9789 9634. O-S

ROOM HEATER. Dimplex. Electric Portable. 7 vane. VGC. $60. Frankston. 9789 9634 O-S

SALE

VARIOUS ITEMS. New shoes, size 38 women, colour: black. Swede top, medium size, heels. $200. Sunbeam Mixmaster, electric, pasta maker, including mixing bowls, large, $200. Fruit plate, new, in box, $10. 8-people rectangular table cover, $15. Superior elec. fan, portable, 3-speed, new cond., $15. East Bentleigh. 9503 8686. O-S

5 vintage saws for

FC. $12. Also frame for manual sharpening. GC. $8. Ashburton. 9885 2203.H-K

Electric Free Standing Stove with CookTop and Oven. Near new. Ideal for holiday

VINTAGE Mechanical Car and Trucks Jacks. 250 in total. Price negotiable. Williamstown. 0400 825 550.H-K

or

STUDY OFFICE CHAIR. Pink, white spots. Smallisdh. $12. Surrey Hills. 0410 626 110. O-S

TRAILER. 7x4 single axle trailer with removable 600mm cage. Tilt body with front and rear tailgates. Hot-dip galvanised and fully welded body. 2.5mm checker plate floor. LED lights. Spare wheel. 1200mm drawbar. 12 months rego, Z25487. GC. $950. Briar Hill. 0407 819 877.I-L

VICTORIAN rocking horse, carved from wood and original. GC. $2000. Broadmeadows, Dallas. 0480 273 335I-L

Olympic Games. Melbourne, 1956. Sydney, 2000. Manchester, opening and closing. GC. $10 each. Box Hill South. 9890 7904.F-I

Very clean. EC. $100. Marysville. 0417 337 424.F-I HORSE FLOAT. 2001 Kara Kar. Rego until may 28, 2026. Side window vent, day yard included. Reliablem roadworthy. Fantastic condition. $15,000. Richmond. 0434 974 072.F-I

RUG. Tartan.

used. GC. $30. Macleod. 9459 6714. O-S

KITCHEN CHAIRS. Nameo. 4. 1950s/60s. Chrome and mustard colour, vinyl. GC. $250. Glenroy. 9306 7628. I-L

2203.H-K

WASHING MACHINE. Haier. 6kg. VGC. $80. Thomastown. 0431 367 868.I-L

STIMULATOR. Clare. Instruction Manual included. VGC. $100. Frankston. 9789 9634 O-S

WETSUIT. Men’s. Wavelength. PFP Type 3. Suitable for waterskiing. Intended body mass 60kg. and cover, manufactured 2001. Catalogue No 3025, batch 0639. Rarely used, EC. $50. Greensborough. 0433 366 628.Q-W

WINDOW AIR CONDITIONER. VGC. $60. Thomastown. 0431 367 868.I-L

WORLD BOOK ENCYCLOPEDIA. Complete Set. $50. Frankston. 9789 9634 O-S

WROUGHT IRON Sewing Machine Marble Top. Suit Garden. VGC. $25. Surrey Hills. 0410 626 110. O-S

B-CURE LASER. Portable therapeutic device, either new or used in good working order. Price negotiable. Ashburton. 9885 2203.OS

WANTED for reale or wrecking. Richard, 0419 566 009.Q-W

Phone: 9489 2222 or 1800 231

FOR SALE

GRAVESITE PRIVATE SALE

Cheltenham Memorial Park Cemetery. Rare opportunity.

Located Coastal Rise N.130. 3 Burials plus Cremations. Idyllic position beside flowering Gums and Bench Seat.

Inspection will impress. 0417 55 6755

Does your local Council use The Local Paper to communicate with locals?

Local government in Victoria has been in operation for over 180 years, with its foundations dating back to the earlyFrom1840s. the very start, the best local Councils have used local press to keep residents informed about their activities.

Public notices, employment ads, pages with news of Council activities. Does your local Council publish ads in The Local Paper? Does your local Council practice what it preaches about transparency and clarity? The Local Paper has a network of local editions - in print and onlinethat serve local communities in all Melbourne suburbs, the PeninsulaMornington and selected country areas. Does your local Council advertise locally? Does it hide its ads in the daily newspapers - at unnecessary ex- pense?Smart Councils use The Local Paper to best serve local people.

PUBLIC NOTICES

SOLE FIDUCIARY/DIRECTOR/EXECUTOR TRUSTEE FOR THEIR ESTATES

Living Souls: Nick Papas, Man; Rena Papas, Woman; William Papas, Man; Mia Papas, Woman (any name derivative). NOTICE: To any entity, body, man or woman that believe they have any authority or interest in said Estates may view/rebut documents at Public Notices: www.thecommonwealthofaustralia.com.au

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.

WHAT’S ON

Classifieds

Notice of Praecipe

For the record Andreas Mardes(c) and Paulina Winnifred Mardes(c) in care of Wonga Park, Victoria State are permanently domiciled on the Land and Soil of Terra Australis. We are not voluntary transactors in commerce and we are the paramount security interest holders of all estates, properties, assets and collateral, both registered and unregistered, and all associated copyright protected trade names. Our lawful conveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis also known as the Commonwealth of Australia was recorded with Public Recording Number RPP44 63900 05100 28511 90600 and RPP44 63900 05100 28511 91607 respectively on Proclamation Date 16th March 2026. All usufruct subjugation ties have been severed with the occupying corporate government of Australia. The corporate Australian kakistocracy and it’s affiliates are instructed to immediately cease and desist misaddressing Andreas Mardes(c) and Paulina Winnifred Mardes(c) in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin, GLOSSA and to cease and desist infringing upon our estates, properties, assets, collateral and copyright protected trade names.